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JOUENAL 
 
 ife uti lUligifltts fnknx 
 
 JOHN COMLY, 
 
 BYBERRY, PENNSYLVANIA. 
 
 PUBLISHED BY HIS CHILDREN. 
 
 PHILADELPHIA: 
 
 T. ELLWOOD CHArMAN, No. 1 S. FIFTH STREET. 
 
 1853. 
 
, -^, I ^6^1 
 
 STEREOTYPED BT L. JOHNSON ft CO. 
 
 PHILADELPHIA. 
 Pr.INTED BT T. K. i P. G. COLLINS. 
 
 
CONTENTS. 
 
 Page 
 TO THE READER vii 
 
 INTRODUCTION ix 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 Parentage and tender impressions of early childhood — The family 
 library — Early school-days — Fondness for reading and study — In- 
 structive seasons during thunder-storms — Employment on the farm — 
 Remarks — Illness of his father — Renewed visitations of Divine love — 
 Simplicity of habits in dress — Maternal influence — Concern to attend 
 ■week-day meetings — Mechanical operations and literary pursuits 
 favourable to improvement of mind — Inclination for the amusement 
 of gunning — Convictions therefor, and remarks on the subject — Diffi- 
 culties of first attempts at composition— Convictions of the duty of 
 making a silent pause at table, before and after meals— Further 
 manifestations, requiring the morning sacrifice and evening oblation — 
 A strict self-examination on the use of "idle -words"— Frequent 
 reading the Scriptures ^ 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 
 Trials of his fidelity to the dictates of Truth— Scruples in regard to 
 using West India produce— Grateful mention of his aged aunt Grace 
 Townsend— Letter to four young friends on attending week-day meet- 
 ings — Association of young men for mutual improvement in literature, 
 &c.— Attends Latin school— Intercourse with students of other reli- 
 gious denominations — Exercises in sustaining Friends' principles — 
 Walk to week-day meeting— Instances of tenderness toward inferior 
 animals— Reflections— Return home from Latin school— Retrospect of 
 the time spent there — Commenced teaching school — Reflections on the 
 important trust ^'^ 
 
 CHAPTER III. 
 
 Trials of opening manhood— Remarks on political privileges— Taking 
 and reading newspapers— Views thereon— Death of his grandmother, 
 
iy CONTENTS. 
 
 Pago 
 and some account of her — Increasing interest in the concerns of 
 
 society — Attendance of Yearly Meeting, 1797 — Death of an amiable 
 pupil — Importance of numbering our blessings — Yellow fever in Phila- 
 delphia, 1798 — Attendance of the Yearly Meeting same year, and 
 notes of its proceedings — Death of a younger brother — Solemn impres- 
 sions thereon — Instance of reconciling a difference — Journey to Ches- 
 ter county, and visit to West-town Boarding-School — Memorandums... 53 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 Diary — Religious exercises — Prospect of going to West-town as teacher 
 — Diary continued — Journey to West-town — Settled prospect of re- 
 moving there — Attendance of his brother's marriage — Continuation 
 of diary 69 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 Removal to West-town — Reflections thereon — Diarj^ — Visit to his family 
 and return to the school — Diai'y continued — Visit to his relations — • 
 Exercises of mind — Appearance in the ministry at a funeral — Retm-n 
 to West-town, and diary continued — Visit to his friends at home — 
 Diary continued — Release from West-town, and return to Byberry — 
 Prospect of marriage 94 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 Diary continued — Exercise of mind in regard to a place of settlement — 
 Visit to West-town — Requests a certificate on account of marriage — 
 Much occupied with building, &c. — Marriage, and review of several 
 years — Visits to families of coloured people, and appointed meetings 
 for others 133 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 
 Journey to New York and New England — Meetings on Staten Island — 
 New York Yearly Meeting — Meetings on Long Island — Attends meet- 
 ings in New York State — Travels in New England — Visits to Comfort 
 Collins and other aged Friends — Return home 150 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 Memorandums— Death of Margaret Porter — Death of M. Adams — Visit 
 to S. Watson — Her death — Attends and appoints meetings in Bucks 
 county — Has appointed meetings within his own quarter — Records the 
 death of several Friends, and other striking events — Attendance of 
 funerals, &c 211 
 
CONTENTS. V 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 Page 
 Journey to New England — Encounters trials and discouragements — 
 
 Arrives at Lynn — Proceeds to attend meetings — Deep exercises of 
 
 mind — Visits meetings in Maine — Quarterly meeting at Dover — Meets 
 
 with many dear friends — Conversation with a Methodist — Visit to T. 
 
 Vose — Also T. Wolcott — Exercise of mind while at Boston — Burning of 
 
 the Exchange — Visit to Noah Worcester and others — Sympathy with 
 
 those who endure hardships and privations — Visit to Moses Brown, 
 
 &c. — Takes passage for New York, and reaches home 229 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 Travels in Chester county — Obtains a minute to appoint meetings — 
 Attends Cropwell meeting — Appoints meetings in Bucks county — 
 Visits meetings in Chester county, Abington quarter, &c 289 
 
 CHAPTER XI. 
 
 Sketch of the state of Society — Attends quarterly meeting in Philadel- 
 phia — Exei'cises of mind — Travels — Yearly Meeting 302 
 
 CHAPTER XII. 
 
 Attends neighbouring meetings — Abington quarter — Attends Southern 
 quarter — Conference at Green-street — Illness — Review of religious 
 labours — Yearly Meeting in tenth month — Visits meetings in New 
 Jersey — Yearly Meeting — DiiSculties and privations encountered in 
 newly-settled countries — Attends various neighbouring meetings, &c... 333 
 
 CHAPTER XIII. 
 
 Jotirney to New York — Meetings at Pottsville — Effect of prejudice — 
 Trials and exercises — Meets with Friends from Bucks county — Reflec- 
 tions on pride, superfluity, state of society, civil and religious — Visit 
 to an intimate friend — Remarkably gloomy day — Exercises and try- 
 ing circumstances — Conversation on "remission of sins" — Views of 
 the origin of evil in man — Concern for the spreading of publications 
 tending to enlighten the mind on the vitality of religion — Exercised 
 on the subject of returning westward — Released therefrom — Conver- 
 sation on the subject of miracles — Returns home — Retrospect of the 
 journey 
 
 CHAPTER XIV. 
 
 Attends New York Yearly Meeting— Exercises — Attends meetings of 
 Westbury quarter — Returns home on account of his wife's illness — 
 Visits the meetings of Purchase quarter — Retrospective remarks — 
 Attends Concord and Cain quarterly meetings — Journey to parts of 
 Maryland and Virginia 432 
 
 36- 
 
vi CONTENTS. 
 
 CHAPTER XV. 
 
 Page 
 Travels with Yearly Meeting's committee — Visits Southern and Western 
 
 quarters — Travels over the mountains — Attends meetings in Bucks 
 county — Visits meetings of Salem quarter — Attends Bucks quarter — 
 Yearly Meeting — Exercises — Attends Philadelphia and Shrewsbury 
 quarters, and other meetings — Obtains a minute, and attends meet- 
 ings in various places — Death of his wife — Extracts from private 
 memoirs concerning her 460 
 
 CHAPTER XVI. 
 
 Visits meetings in various parts of the Yearly Meeting — Journey to 
 Ohio — Journey, and attendance of Genesee Yearly Meeting — Closing 
 account of his life 521 
 
 Reflections or Essays, and Miscellaneous Memorandums 559 
 
 Appendix 627 
 
TO THE KEADER. 
 
 In preparing tliis volume from the materials left by our 
 beloved father, "we have desired scrupulously to give his reli- 
 gious experience in his own language ; inserting such para- 
 graphs only as were deemed requisite for connecting links in 
 the narrative. 
 
 It may be proper to state, it was his wish that his manu- 
 script Essays, Journals, Narratives, Memorandums, &c. should 
 be carefully preserved ; and if any of them should be deemed 
 suitable for publication, as being likely to promote the pre- 
 cious cause of Ti'uth and Righteousness, they should be 
 examined by judicious, well-qualified Friends, previously to 
 being offered to the public. 
 
 This has been done, and the general approval of those to 
 whom the manuscripts were submitted, has encouraged us in 
 their publication. The care and responsibility of which having 
 devolved chiefly on the children of the deceased, we have 
 endeavoured to perform with fidelity the duty which filial 
 affection has required at our hands ; and we trust the critical 
 reader will make due allowance for any defects resulting from 
 our inexperience. 
 
IITRODUCTIOK 
 
 The author of the following Journal has left, in his \n-itings, such 
 ample means to inform the reader of his character and conduct as a 
 member and minister of the religious Society of Friends, as to render 
 unnecessary any extended notice of them in this place. Having, 
 during the arduous struggle which terminated in a division of that 
 society taken an active part, his conduct was the subject of much ani- 
 madversion; and through the warmth of party feeling, common to such 
 events, was greatly misrepresented. In refemng to this subject, it 
 is not the desire of those to whom has been committed the care of 
 his manuscripts, to revive on either side of the question any un- 
 pleasant feelings. It would be far more agreeable to them, and to his 
 friends generally, by a kind and forbearing course, to soften asperities, 
 and prepare the way for a more Christian and brotherly communion; 
 tnd. we believe, if the part taken by John Comly, and the great body 
 of those who acted with him on that occasion, could be viewed in its 
 true light, it would go far, very far, to produce these happy effects. 
 "We are not without some hope that the publication of his writings 
 will ultimately have this tendency. The purity of his motives in all 
 his movements, during the eventful period alluded to, wiU, we confi- 
 dently believe, be satisfactorily demonstrated. None who knew him 
 well, will doubt his integrity. Meekness, patience, and forbearance, 
 were prominent traits in his character; and through countless occa- 
 sions of irritation and close trial, we believe they never failed to 
 preserve him in a truly Christian demeanor. 
 
 But while either our motives to action, or our religious principles, 
 are deemed unsound or corrupt, no approximation to religious fellow- 
 ship with those who thus judge, can reasonably be expected. The 
 cause of division, whatever that cause may be, must be removed 
 before the effect can cease. There is, and ought to be, in every 
 
X INTRODUCTION. 
 
 honest mind, a repugnance to hold religious communion with those 
 whose sentiments and conduct are inimical to gospel truth. Toward 
 those who are in error, Christian charity enjoins forbearance, kind- 
 ness, and benevolence, but not unity and fellowship. While we 
 sincerely regard either individuals or societies as alien to the Chris- 
 tian state, we cannot unite with them as members of the Christian 
 chtu'ch. 
 
 Under this view of the subject, every movement tending to correct 
 error or remove prejudice, will be hailed with joy by all the lovers 
 of truth and concord. So far as these ends shall be attained, obstruc- 
 tions to a Christian intercourse among Friends will disappear, and 
 the day be hastened, when all who desire the prosperity of Truth, as 
 understood and preached by our jjr; m iVh'c Friends, may join hand to 
 hand, and shoulder to shoulder, in the support and promotion of the 
 all-important testimonies, which tlu-y were called upon to hold up to 
 the world. 
 
 Notwithstanding all that has been said, and, we doubt not, sincerely 
 believed by many, John Comly and the body of Friends with whom 
 he acted, never had the remotest intention to reject any of the views 
 of Christian Truth, which were preached and explained by George 
 Fox and his fellow-labourers. These views were considered by us, 
 and continue so to be considered, as identical with the doctrines of 
 Christ and his apostles. The corruptions which had crept into the 
 church, as predicted in the clearest terms by several of the Scripture 
 writers, had been accumulating therein from the earliest periods of 
 evangelical history. They had marred the beautiful simplicity of the 
 gospel, and loaded it with lifeless forms and pompous ceremonies, 
 eminently calculated to captivate the senses, and lure away the soul 
 from the contemplation and feeling of Divine Truth. We unite with 
 George Fox, and all our faithful brethren in his day, and in every 
 generation since his day, in believing that he was raised up and 
 called of God to point out the corruptions then in the church; to 
 declare its apostacy in faith and practice, in doctrine and worship ; 
 and to preach this infinitely important truth, that under the gosiprl 
 dispensation Christ has come in spirit, according to his own express 
 promise, to teach his people himself, and to gather a church and esta- 
 blish it ''a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such 
 thing, but that it should be without blemish." (Eph. v. 27.) 
 
 Neither John Comly, nor the society to which he belonged, ever 
 attempted or desired to invalidate any of the doctrines of our early 
 
INTRODUCTION. si 
 
 Friends in relation to the Holy Scriptures ; 'belie\nng, without any 
 hesitation or resei-ve, and, in entire accordance with our brethren 
 from the beginning, that "holy men of Grod spake as they were 
 moved by the Holy Spirit;" that the Scriptures contain a full and 
 ample testimony to all the chief principles and doctrines of the Chris- 
 tian faith; that whatsoever any do, contrary to the Scriptures, 
 under a pretence of being led by the Holy Spirit, they are under a 
 delusion. They believed with Robert Barclay, that "from the reve- 
 lations of the Spirit of Grod to the saints, have proceeded the Scrip- 
 tures of Truth;" and that, "we do therefore receive and believe the 
 Scriptures because they proceeded from the Spirit." No higher 
 testimony to their authenticity and Divine authority was maintained 
 by George Fox and our primitive Friends than by John Comly. 
 By his ministry, in his conversation and through the press, he pro- 
 mulgated these views with an earnestness which evinced his sincerity, 
 and with a perseverance which showed they were dear to his heart. 
 
 To him, the separation of the Society of Friends into two parts, 
 was a subject of paivful contemplation. He laboured earnestly and 
 faithfully to prevent it; and, it was not until its members were 
 essentially divided by differences of opinion in a variety of cases, that 
 he was willing to entertain the subject. He did not become an 
 advocate for dividing the society, until it became evident to him, 
 that the consequences of remaining to act as one body, under the 
 discordant views and hostile feelings of both parties, would be far 
 vtorse to the whole than a quiet separation. 
 
 In relation to his own feelings and conduct on that occasion, he has 
 left a manuscript account, evidently intended to show his innocency of 
 charges made against him about that time, and to manifest his integrity 
 in the part he took, in conjunction with the body to which he adhered. 
 In reference to the charge of promoting a division in the Society 
 of Friends, as it related to the period of separation in 1827, he 
 says : " Society was already divided in sentiment, in feeling, and in 
 its views. Condescension was lost; tenaciousness of opinion was 
 maintained; and no business that had any bearing on the subjects 
 of controversy, could be done in unity and harmony. Jarring and 
 contention had increased, wherever such subjects had been discussed. 
 in meetings for discipline. Divisions were spreading, parties in- 
 creasing in numbers, manifesting more harshness and warmth of 
 opposition: and, as no hope of reconciliation remained, common 
 prudence demanded that a separation of the contending pai-ties 
 
xii INTRODUCTION. 
 
 should be made. I saw with sorrow the waste of brotherly feeling, 
 the i^rostration of those principles from which flow meekness, gentle- 
 ness, forbearance, and condescension, virtues which had long been 
 the cement of religious society. Instead of these, I beheld strife, 
 shyness, coldness, and reserve; and, finally, a disposition to judge 
 and condemn one another. Under the influence of such feelings, I 
 perceived, in my dear friends, an increasing difiiculty of perception 
 and understanding, a confusion of language, so that, even those who 
 desired to be governed by right motives, could not understand one 
 another's speech. The eye became diseased, so that it could not see 
 clearly ; the ear could not hear for the noise of the passions ; and the 
 feelings of brotherly love and charity were palsied. This diseased 
 state of the body, with its fruits, I saw spreading, and the sight grieved 
 my heart. The unity, harmony, and peace of a society, professing, 
 above most others, the necessity of loving one another, were pros- 
 trated, broken, and destroyed; while yet the jarring parts remained 
 nominally united. 
 
 ''In this state of things, many of the prominent active members 
 on both sides, acknowledged that it would be expedient and more 
 reputable to separate. It was said that Abraham and Lot did so, 
 without criminating each other; but, acknowledging they were 
 brethren, they separated as such, and peace was restored between 
 them. Friends might have done so likewise, had they possessed a 
 like conciliating disposition. If they had come to an understanding 
 in the coolness of their spirits, they might, after due and quiet re- 
 flection, have discovered the true cause of the difiiculty, and, like 
 Abraham and Lot, remembering that they were brethren, might soon 
 have come again together. But, alas ! the spirit of reconciliation was 
 wanting, as facts have since demonstrated. 
 
 "Was I the cause of this division? Did I promote this state of 
 society ? To the Searcher of hearts I can appeal for my innocency. I 
 can appeal to those who have known me from my childhood, to those 
 who have had the most ample opportunity to judge of my temper, to 
 estimate my character by my conduct in the private walks of life, as 
 well as in the narrow sphere of my more public labours, whether strife 
 and division have been my pleasure or my pursuit. However short I 
 may have been in coming up to the standard of a faithful Christian, 
 I have ever loved peace, and delighted in promoting unity, harmony, 
 and brotherly love among my fellow-creatures. Peace has been my 
 delight, my joy, my happiness. I have no consciousness thus far in 
 
INTRODUCTION. xiii 
 
 my life, that I ever delighted in contention and strife. To me they 
 have always been painful. Even the conflicts of the lower animals 
 have been distressing to my feelings." 
 
 The foregoing is part of the above-mentioned manuscript account, 
 which, it is evident, he originally intended for publication, in order 
 to clear his chai-acter from some charges against him, which had 
 appeared in print. In a note appended to the writing, he says, " I 
 had intended to reply to the several unfounded and untrue charges, 
 and insinuations, preferred against me, in that pamphlet, in order to 
 clear my character of them, and attest my inuocency. But pausing 
 a little, I remembered that when he, whom I have called my Lord 
 and master, our great pattern, was accused by the chief priests and 
 elders, 'he answered nothing/ and therefore, why should I attempt 
 a defence of my innocency, when, heaven is my witness, that I am 
 not guilty of what was laid to my charge. So I laid down my pen, 
 and committed my cause to Him who judgeth righteously, and is a 
 refuge to the oppressed." 
 
 He survived this period more than twenty years, whereby large 
 opportunity was afforded to his friends, and to the world, to make a 
 just estimate of his character, both as a man and a Christian. In 
 the domestic department, he was amiable and affectionate ; and there, 
 as well as in the more extensive circle of his acquaintance, he was 
 greatly beloved. It has been the lot of few to have so large a number 
 of warmly attached friends, as John Comly. His manners were 
 gentle, and his movements without hurry, indicating deliberation and 
 quietude of mind. In all his concerns he was governed by order, and 
 a close attention to the objects he had in view; by which, without any 
 bustle or appearance of haste, he was able to accomplish a great 
 amount of business, which, toward the close of life, was principally 
 either of a literary or benevolent character. 
 
 He had long seen and regretted the want of suitable books for the 
 religious instruction of Friends' children ; books which, while they 
 would interest and improve the understanding, might lead to serious 
 reflection, and prepare the fresh ground of the heart for the seed of 
 the heavenly kingdom ; which appeared to him the great object of a 
 religious education. He lamented, and sometimes expressed his 
 concern, to find in Friends' ftimilies, much light, unprofitable litera- 
 ture, and some that was pernicious, comparable to the fowls of the 
 air "which devoured the good seed." In a letter to a friend, dated 
 about three years before his death, he says, " I am very apprehensive, 
 
xiv INTRODUCTION. 
 
 if strict inquiry were instituted among us, it would be found that 
 young Friends, both in city and country, where children and youth 
 are rising up to years of thoughtful inquiry, have few Friends' books 
 in their families. True, in cities, and in the country too, we may see 
 their centre-tables, and other parts of their houses, displaying gilded 
 volumes and a variety of pamphlets ; but no such works as Penn's 
 'No Cross, no Crown/ 'Barclay's Apology,' or 'Woolman's Journal.' 
 Thou, and a few of our elder members, have an extensive collection 
 of Friends' books ; but where shall we find a young Friend, who has 
 even a moderate library of them ? This subject lies near my heart. 
 It is producing a silent, but deteriorating effect upon society." 
 
 Under a concern to remedy, as far as it was in his power, this 
 defect, and knowing the attractive character of biographical literature, 
 especially for young people, he turned his attention to the collection 
 and publication of manuscript accounts of deceased Friends, who had 
 been distinguished in their day for piety and usefulness. His brother, 
 the late Isaac Comly, uniting with him in this concern, by their joint 
 labours, beginning in the year 1831, and ending in 1839, they com- 
 piled and published twelve volumes of a work called " Friends' Mis- 
 cellany," which contains sketches of the lives and religious services 
 of a great number of the most valuable ministers of the Gospel, and 
 other distinguished Friends of America, who lived in the last and 
 present centuries. It also contains posthumous letters and essays of 
 an interesting character, not elsewhere to be found in print. This 
 work will not only delight and instruct the present generation, but 
 will go down for the benefit of posterity, and long remain a noble 
 and useful monument to the piety and devotion of its publishers. 
 
 He was during many years a serviceable member of the Meeting 
 for Sufferings, where he was eminently useful, in the various weighty 
 concerns claiming the attention of that body. On its book-committee 
 he cheerfully devoted much of his time in examining, arranging, and 
 preparing original works for the press. His large experience and 
 sound judgment, on such occasions, rendered his labours very valu- 
 able. In other departments of society he was equally useful. In 
 fine, wherever his services were called for, he was found to be a 
 faithful, laborious, devoted servant of the church. 
 
 As a minister of the Gospel, he was truly exemplary. His deport- 
 ment in our meetings for divine worship was retired and reverent; and 
 when called to public service, the solemnizing effect of his ministry 
 gave evidence that he was concerned to " minister in the ability which 
 
INTRODUCTION. xv 
 
 God giveth/' well understanding the truth of that solemn declaration, 
 ''Without me ye can do nothing." His manner in the exercise of his 
 gift was weighty and dignified, becoming the awful station of an 
 ambassador for Christ; his language plain, clear, and comprehensive; 
 his voice harmonious, though he avoided all affected tones and ges- 
 tures. As a labourer in the Lord's vineyard, we believe it may 
 truly be said of him, that he was "a workman that needed not to be 
 ashamed, rightly dividing the word of ti-uth." (2 Tim. ii. 15.) 
 
 Toward the close of life, he suflFered much from a neuralgic affection 
 of his limbs, which made it difficult to walk, and sometimes confined 
 him to his bed. This, and other heavy aflilictions, he bore with quiet 
 resignation to the Divine will. His confidence in the wisdom and 
 goodness of God never failed; but in all, and through all, he was 
 sustained by the Divine arm; and, in that faith which is "the sub- 
 stance of things hoped for," he was enabled to endui-e all his afflictions 
 "as seeing Him who is invisible." (Heb. xi. 27.) 
 
 Having a desire, if practicable, to get to his quarterly meeting, held 
 at Gwynedd in the eighth mouth, 1850, he was favoured to accom- 
 plish it, though through much bodily suffering, as he informed his 
 children after his return. In the meeting of ministers and elders, 
 held on the 7th of the month, he appeared in the ministry, in a very 
 tender and affecting manner, and also in the general quarterly meet- 
 ing, held the following day, where his labom's were peculiarly solemn 
 and impressive. 
 
 After his return home, there was no remarkable change in his 
 health, until the morning of the 17th, when he was attacked by a 
 severe pain in the breast, attended with great difficulty of breathing. 
 Toward the middle of the day he was greatly relieved, and passed 
 some hours without much uneasiness ; but in the afternoon, the pain 
 returned with so much violence as soon to put a period to his suffer- 
 ings and his life. He died about ten o'clock in the evening, and was 
 buried in Friends' graveyard at Byberry, on the 20th of the eighth 
 month, 1860, aged about 77 years. 
 
 Thus passed away from this probationary state, our beloved Friend 
 John Comly. With natural powers which might have made him 
 conspicuous in any station, he studiously avoided popularity. ]\Iodest 
 and retiring, he never sought to put himself forward, either in public 
 assemblies or the social circle ; choosing rather to walk in the foot- 
 steps of our holy pattern, who, when the multitude would have pro- 
 moted him to worldly honour, immediately retired from the crowd, 
 
xvi INTRODUCTION. 
 
 and "went into a mountain, himself alone." (John vi. 15.) His 
 pasgage through the world, in all its stages, was marked by industry, 
 and the useful employment of time ; and few men have left behind 
 them more numerous, or more dm-able evidences of a well-spent life. 
 His mental faculties remained bright in old age, showing to the last no 
 signs of weakness or decay. As he drew nearer the end of his jour- 
 ney his mind seemed to be clothed with love, manifested by increasing 
 tenderness and affection toward his friends, and others with whom he 
 had intercourse — his path resembling that of the just man, "that 
 shineth more and more unto the perfect day." Though his last 
 illness was of short duration, and his death apparently sudden, yet 
 it came not upon him unawares, but as unto one who, with oil in his 
 vessel, his lamp trimmed, and his light bmning, was quietly awaiting 
 the coming of his Lord. 
 
 3d Mo7iih lOth, 1853. 
 
JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 
 
JOURNAL. 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 NARRATIVE OF SOME OF THE EARLY PARTS OF MT LIFE, AND THE VISITA- 
 TIONS OF DIVINE GOODNESS TO MY SOUL. 
 
 According to the account given by my parents, I was born 
 the 19th day of the 11th month, 1773, in Byberry township, 
 Philadelphia county, Pennsylvania. My parents' names were 
 Isaac and Asenath Comly, members of the religious society 
 of Friends. They were plain, frugal, and industrious people. 
 Having but little of this world's treasure, in their setting out 
 in life, with the cares of a family, they found it needful to be 
 very economical in their expenses ; and therefore their chil- 
 dren were brought up with much simplicity, and in habits of 
 plainness and industry. I had one sister, older, and several 
 brothers younger than myself. For the first two or three 
 years of my life, the opening wonders of the world around 
 me left no traces on my memory that remained long. A 
 season of extreme illness, with fever, during my infancy, as 
 related by my parents, passed also into obli\aon as respected 
 my recollection of it. 
 
 Thus the pleasures and pains of childhood were alike for- 
 gotten, till, I suppose, I attained my third or fourth year. 
 In those days, first-day afternoon meetings were held at By- 
 berry meeting-house twice a month. These meetings fui'- 
 nished opportunities for children and young people to attpnd, 
 and for parents to take their little ones to meeting. I also, 
 among others, was taken by my concerned mother, who placed 
 me by her side, and taught me to sit still. The novelty and 
 solemnity of the scene might at first have attracted my atten- 
 
 8 
 
4 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1776-7. 
 
 tion ; but there was also a feeling of the influence of good, 
 which arrested my childish mind. I well remember the sen- 
 sations and desires of my heart, though I was then uncon- 
 scious whence they were derived. I have since known the 
 gradual opening of the fountain whence they flowed into my 
 innocent soul. The love of goodness, and the desire to 
 become a good man, were seriously impressed on my childish 
 understanding. I wished, if I lived to grow up, that I might 
 be a good man and a preacher; for I thought preachers were 
 the best men. At that period, James Thornton was a mem- 
 ber of Byberry meeting, and an eminent minister of the gos- 
 pel; and I now think it probable that even little children 
 were baptized into an indescribable feeling of something good, 
 under his ministry. But the impressions above alluded to, 
 according to the best of my recollection, were made, and often 
 renewed, in silent meetings. I loved to go and sit by the 
 side of my dear mother, whose care and example, as well as 
 her prayers, I have cause to believe have been a great bless- 
 ing to me. 
 
 The incalculable advantages of taking little children to 
 meetings, and of habituating them early to the discipline of 
 stillness, can never be fully appreciated. It may be the 
 means of laying a foundation, very early in life, for the most 
 exalted virtues. The seeds of Divine goodness thus planted, 
 or that germinate in good wishes and good desires, when the 
 infant mind is thus retired, may take deep root and bring 
 forth early fruits of genuine religion — of love and obedience 
 to parents — of sincere afi"ection toward brothers and sisters 
 and relatives. Under these solemnizing, tender feelings, the 
 pure, innocent, uncontaminated infant mind worships in spirit 
 and in truth. It learns to love such opportunities — it de- 
 lights to feel such a calmness and quietude — and it enjoys a 
 heaven within. 
 
 May parents, who have the important charge of leading on 
 the rising generation, seriously and rightly consider their 
 duty toward their tender children, even in the first dawn of 
 their opening minds. Teach them stillness and subjection of 
 their wills — prepare the way, and all Gracious goodness will 
 bless them with the impressions of his love, and lead them on 
 
Chap. I.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 5 
 
 in the paths of truth and peace. Your reward, ye ten- 
 derly concerned parents, will be multiplied, in the satisfaction 
 and comfort resulting to yourselves from this early care and 
 discipline, and the obedience and affection of your tender 
 offspring. To them, the yoke will soon become easy and the 
 burden light ; in them a soil will be thus prepared, like a gar- 
 den enclosed, for bringing forth fruits to the praise of the 
 great Husbandman, and the ample reward of all your toils, 
 your watchings, your cares and your prayers. 
 
 I think it was about the fourth or fifth year of my age 
 that an incident occurred, which was the occasion of bringing 
 my mind to an acquaintance with the divine law of mercy, 
 gentleness, and tender heartedness. I found it to be a law 
 of prohibition against cruelty, wantonness, and inconsideration 
 — for I was now old enough to think ; but not considering that 
 animals could feel as well as children, and, while in the inno- 
 cent exercise of throwing sticks, chips and stones, the thought 
 inadvertently occurred, to try Avhether I could hit a chicken 
 that Avas not far from me. After various efforts in this trial 
 of muscular strength and skill, I succeeded in hitting the 
 innocent chicken with a stone. It fell — it stretched back its 
 head in agony, and appeared to be dying. Horror and sor- 
 row seized my infant soul, under a sense of the cruelty I had 
 committed. I retired into the house and shed many tears. 
 My sympathy was keenly awakened toward the sufferings of 
 an innocent little animal, and my remorse was poignant, as 
 being myself the cause thereof. When inquired of concern- 
 ing the occasion of my weeping, I was afraid or ashamed to 
 confess the real reason, and therefore complained of being 
 unwell. Indeed, it was not well with me ; but the conscious 
 mind was sick, more than the body. The tree of knowledge 
 of evil was now clearly shown me, and the divine prohibition of 
 eating thereof, in future, was plainly and intelligibly sounded 
 in the ear of my soul. I saw that wantonness and cruelty 
 were evil — even wicked. My heart then learned to feel ten- 
 derness towards every living thing that could feel pain, and 
 in all my childish sports and plays, to avoid wanton cruelty. 
 
 This divine law, thus early written on the tablet of my 
 heart, has been of incalculable advantage to me. During my 
 
6 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1777-8. 
 
 youthful clays, it preserved me from many evils — it kept me 
 from joining in many sports and pastimes that inconsiderate 
 boys are apt to indulge in. Many a bird's nest has been left 
 unmolested — many an innocent butterfly, or other insect, has 
 been spared, through the prevalence of this tender feeling in 
 my heart — and yet the prejudices and antipathies of others 
 older than myself, men, women, and children, often operated 
 to prevent the free and full exercise of this heaven-born prin- 
 ciple of mercy and tenderness. Certain birds were considered 
 noxious and cruel — certain insects and reptiles were said to 
 be poisonous and dangerous — and therefore, it was said, they 
 ought to be annoyed and destroyed. Among the feathered 
 tribes, kingbirds and blackbirds, and their nests and eggs, 
 were often sacrificed to popular prejudices, regardless of the 
 laws of mercy, gentleness and compassion. Their mournful 
 cries were disregarded, when wanton plunder deprived them 
 of the sweet enjoyment of heaven's gifts, their nests, their 
 eggs and their young. Many a supposed poisonous insect 
 or reptile was destroyed, without remorse, because the ex- 
 ample and opinions of men, overbalanced for a time the gentle 
 impressions of tender heartedness and mercy. Again, the 
 ardour of youthful inclination for pastime and amusement, 
 encouraged by example and common custom, often led to 
 violations of this heavenly law of tender feeling and compas- 
 sion toward the animal creation. Hence, many a fish has 
 been drawn by the barbed hook, from its native watery ele- 
 ment, when no necessity for food could be urged as the cause 
 for it. Ah ! how little are the precepts and example of man- 
 kind, and the common customs of what is called civilized 
 society, in accordance with, or calculated to impress that 
 plain lesson of mercy and tenderness contained in these 
 words : 
 
 " Take not in sport that life you cannot give, 
 For all things have an equal right to live." 
 
 Thus, though early impressed with the rectitude of this 
 tender feeling for sensitive animal beings, yet my youthful 
 days were marked with defects and aberrations from the uni- 
 form exercise of this divine law. But the seeds thus early 
 
Chap. I.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 7 
 
 sown have never been extirpated ; tliey have often found room 
 to grow — and in their growth and expansion have prevailed 
 over many youthful inclinations and popular prejudices — as, 
 in due time, may be noticed, if this naiTative of my life, and 
 of the tender dealings of Infinite goodness and mercy with 
 my soul, shall be continued. 
 
 In review of the subject, it may be inferred that an impar- 
 tial heavenly Father visits all his rational children with the 
 manifestation of his will and law, and that often at a very 
 early period of life the tender sensibilities of infant inno- 
 cence revolt at acts of wanton cruelty. 
 
 How vastly important to the happiness of individuals and 
 the community at large, as well as to the order and harmony of 
 the creation, that parents and instructors of children, as well 
 as the elder members of families and of society, should, by 
 example and precept, be able and willing to aid the infant 
 mind in conforming to this heavenly principle of mercy, ten- 
 der-heartedness, kindness and compassion : — for if tenderness 
 toward animals were early cultivated, brotherly kindness in 
 the human family could hardly fail of being among the fruits 
 of this attribute of the Divine nature. 
 
 The war of the American Revolution occurred during my 
 infant days, and left some impressions on my memory ; but 
 the opportunity of seeing or hearing much about it, to me 
 was very limited. The sight of soldiers was awful ; and the 
 companies that came to seize and carry off wheat and other 
 grain, occasioned unpleasant sensations. Collectors of fines 
 and taxes, who used high and boisterous words, as well as 
 seized property, were considered as fierce, warlike characters, 
 that inspired terror and abhorrence in my infant mind. Yet, 
 when none of these molested us, my days passed on in inno- 
 cent or childish amusements, as I understood little of the 
 bustle and confusion of the times. I remember that when a 
 little boy, the son of a neighbour, on seeing an army or com- 
 pany of soldiers passing along, cried out, " Hurrah ! for King 
 George," it was considered very naughty, and left the im- 
 pression on my mind, that little children had nothing to do 
 with wars. I infer from this, that my parents must have 
 inculcated this lesson upon my mind ; and it would be well if 
 
8 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1780. 
 
 the wisdom of such instructions were more obvious in the 
 education of children. They would not so early be taught 
 to admire the parade of military men ; but when they were 
 seen, a feeling of horror would be induced, by associating the 
 idea of cruelty, violence and death with the military cha- 
 racter. 
 
 I believe the first book put into my hands was Woolman's 
 or Benezet's primer. Both these excellent men inculcated 
 the principles and practice of tenderness, kindness, mercy, 
 and compassion toward animals, and peace and love among 
 the human family. I was early taught to read, and found 
 much pleasure and satisfaction in acquiring a knowledge of 
 letters. When sent to school, at a very early age, and during 
 the time of the American Revolution, some difiiculties occm-- 
 red from the circumstances of the times. One day the school- 
 master was taken from his school, on account of military 
 fines, and we all had to go home sad and sorrowful. During 
 what was called the hard winter of 1780, I was frequently 
 carried to school by a large boy, or young man, Avho lived 
 with my father. When the Gilbert family was taken captive 
 by the Indians, from the frontiers of Pennsylvania, in the 
 spring following, the alarm and sorrow occasioned thereby 
 among their near relatives in Byberry, produced some very 
 awful sensations in my mind. Much was said about the 
 cruelty of the Indians; many stories were in circulation, and 
 imagination painted the horrors and distress of a state of 
 captivity among them. The Indian character was considered 
 as associated with all that was barbarous, inhuman, ferocious 
 and cruel. Hence, a deep-rooted prejudice against this 
 people took early possession of my mind. Nor was it re- 
 moved, or even softened, till after the lapse of many years, 
 when a better state of feeling was induced by more correct 
 information, and by the exercise of Christian philanthropy, 
 and weighing things in a more even balance. 
 
 Nor was I exposed only to a prejudice against the Indian 
 character ; but being subject to the hearing of strange stories 
 about supposed witches, apparitions and marvellous things, 
 my youthful mind was injured by fears, imaginations and 
 terrors arising from these sources of injudicious exposure. 
 
Chap I.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 9 
 
 How great the need of unremitting care in parents, to preserve 
 the sensitive minds of children from prejudices and imaginary 
 fears, that may imbitter their after lives, or produce a morbid 
 state of their mental and even physical powers ! How much 
 toil, anxiety, and care may be requisite to extirpate the evils 
 of such exposure, none can know ! A single tale of ghosts, 
 witches, and romance, may make impressions of terror on the 
 memory, that imagination may apply to innumerable objects 
 and incidents in after life, so as to produce unhappiness, 
 anxiety and trouble, where but for such a prejudice no evil or 
 alarm might have resulted. 
 
 Another fruitful source of contamination and corruption to 
 the innocent youthful mind, is the introduction or association 
 of domestics, such as apprentice boys or girls, or hired men or 
 women, who are of loose habits and principles, or given to 
 vulgar, obscene, idle, or profane language. Although, com- 
 paratively, mine was a situation much exempt from these per- 
 nicious influences ; yet not wholly so, the examples, habits 
 and language of some of these members of my father's family, 
 produced a baneful and degrading influence on my thoughts, 
 wishes, words, and actions. I consider it a special interposi- 
 tion of an overruling, watchful Providence, that preserved me 
 from the snares and exposures to which I was liable, and 
 which might have been the foundation of gross and enormous 
 evils. The watchful care pf my dear parents, their precepts 
 and admonitions, as well as prohibitions and restraints, were 
 undoubtedly instrumental to my preservation. While I look 
 back with awfulness at the dangers and difficulties I was near 
 falling into, I acknowledge Avith emotions of thankfulness and 
 gratitude, the tender care of my dear parents, and the guardian- 
 ship, protection, and preservation of the Friend of innocent 
 little children. The visitations of his goodness and the mani- 
 festations of his light and law, were not withheld from my 
 sensitive and susceptible mind. I was preserved from all 
 gross evils, from profane language, from telling falsehoods, 
 from much disobedience to parents, teachers, &c. Neverthe- 
 less, in these days of my early youth, the seeds of many 
 vanities began to germinate and bring forth fruits. Jesting 
 and laughter, vain and idle words, and a fondness for play 
 
10 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1783. 
 
 and sport beyond due bounds, seemed to be gaining an ascend- 
 ency over me. These, however, were somewhat checked by 
 my love of learning, and my inclination for some mechanical 
 imitations as soon as I was old enough to use a penknife, a 
 saw, and a hammer, and could gain access to them. 
 
 After I had learned to read with tolerable facility, the ac- 
 quisition of such a means of information, and the privilege of 
 using it, were not allowed to lie dormant or unoccupied, ex- 
 cept from lack of books that might be as food to the inquisitive 
 young mind. Had suitable publications been put into my 
 hands at that early and inquiring age, I should doubtless have 
 fed on knowledge congenial to the expandings of my mind, 
 and the fund of useful information then acquired might have 
 been of lasting benefit ; but, alas ! suitable hooks were not then 
 to be had. The age did not furnish a hundredth part even of 
 what are now reckoned proper to place before children, of 
 an innocent and useful character. My father having but 
 little taste for literature, or his pecuniary circumstances not 
 allowing of the pm'chase of books, or the great difficulty of 
 obtaining them, was probably the cause that we had but a 
 small store of them. His library, if such it may be called, 
 consisted of a common school Bible, much worn, Edinburgh 
 edition, printed by Alexander Kincaid ; three treatises, by 
 William Penn, Robert Barclay, and Joseph Pike, bought in 
 the year 1771, and in which some leaves of white paper had 
 been sewed, for the purpose of recording his children's 
 names, births, &c., (this valuable work is yet in my posses- 
 sion ;) Richard Davies' Journal ; John Churchman's Journal ; 
 John Griffith's Journal ; a borrowed Young Man's Com- 
 panion ; some pamphlets, one on slavery, and some old alma- 
 nacs ; also part of a copy of Watts' Hymns. These formed 
 the family library prior to 1783, when my mother added Mary 
 Mollineux's Poems, printed by Joseph Crukshank in 1776. 
 Afterward, about the year 1790, Sewell's History was pur- 
 chased at a vendue. 
 
 This small collection of books was generally kept on a shelf 
 in the common room in which we lived, so high from the floor 
 that I had no access to it but by climbing on to the top of a 
 door that opened back under the library shelf. This I efiected 
 
Chap. I.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 11 
 
 by availing myself of a bed that was near, or a chair or stool, 
 and thus frequently sat on the door to examine the books, or 
 get one to read. Richard Davies' Journal and the Young 
 Man's Companion were mostly chosen, as containing some 
 things that I could comprehend. My father frequently read on 
 first-days, and sometimes on winter evenings, (more especially 
 after he obtained Sewell's History,) provided there were no 
 shoes to be mended, which he did himself, or no other business 
 or company to prevent. But his tone, or tune, peculiar to 
 those days, was a kind of sing-song, more adapted to inspire 
 sleep, than interest his hearers in the subjects thus read ; and 
 of evenings the exercise very often terminated, as to him and 
 us, in a comfortable repose. My mother had much more of a 
 literary turn of mind ; her reading was more frequent and 
 more interesting. She also wrote or copied considerably, and 
 was our principal patron to encourage a taste for literary 
 improvement. 
 
 As to myself, this scarcity of mental food, gathered from 
 reading, produced an imprudent eagerness for any book that 
 was new to me. The old small library on the shelf had so 
 often been resorted to, that I wanted something fresh, and 
 better adapted to my childish understanding. Hence, at 
 school, among the children, I sometimes met with such as 
 Tom Thumb's Folio, Goody Two Shoes, fable or riddle books. 
 But when any of these were borrowed and taken home to 
 read, they were apt to be condemned by my parents as "per- 
 nicious books," against which the discipline of Society advised ; 
 and they were consequently sent back to their owners without 
 my being allowed to read them. 
 
 My first schoolmaster was Benjamin Kite, a young man 
 who had lived in the Mason family, and was introduced into 
 Friends' school at Byberry, through the means of Thomas 
 Walmsley and Agnes, his wife, (who was a Mason.) I sup- 
 pose my aptness for learning, while so small in growth, 
 attracted his attention, and he showed marks of particular 
 kindness to me. I also became very much attached to him, 
 and thus a foundation was early laid for a friendship of long 
 continuance. The practice in school then was to learn to 
 spell in four or five syllables before learning to read, and to 
 
12 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1781. 
 
 read tolerably well in the Testament before learning to write. 
 When I had attained thus far, I well remember my anxiety 
 for improvement in this important elementary branch of edu- 
 cation. Not content with the lessons given me at school, I 
 importuned my parents for pen, ink and paper, on first-days 
 and other times, at home. In this I was sometimes indulged, 
 though paper was very scarce ; and thus, at length, acquired 
 the art of "joining hand" and of copying pieces from books. 
 My first "piece-book" was a sheet of foolscap paper, folded 
 in octavo and covered with a piece of newspaper, and was 
 commenced in the fall, when about the age of eight years. 
 It was filled with poetic pieces from "Watts' Hymns," "An 
 Alarm to the Wise and Foolish Virgins," and some other 
 pieces. Shortly after arriving at eight years old, I was put 
 to ciphering, in which I made good proficiency, and was 
 much delighted with the exercise of combining numbers. 
 
 When about nine years old, a small printed book, called a 
 History of the Bible, was obtained of one of my schoolmates, 
 who asked ninepence for it. I wanted to become the owner 
 of it, and for that purpose took it home to consult my parents. 
 It would have taken nearly all my money, that had been ac- 
 cumulated by pennies, mostly given me by relations ; never- 
 theless I was anxious to buy the book, at perhaps three times 
 its real worth. But my parents persuaded me to save my 
 money ; and, as I could then write a tolerably plain hand, ad- 
 vised me to copy the book, it being in a kind of poetry "with 
 short lines. A sheet of paper was then folded into sixteen 
 leaves, as a book, in which I copied this kind of poetic his- 
 tory, and which is still in my library — though a poor produc- 
 tion, fraught. with Calvinistic and trinitarian notions. The 
 labour of copying was nevertheless useful to me. Another 
 work, called "The Babes in the Wood," was copied in like 
 manner, and saved the expense of a purchase — although 
 money, of which my stock was then very small, was esteemed 
 of far less value to me than books, if I could have obtained 
 them. 
 
 If children and young people, on reading this narrative, 
 ■ should draw a comparison between the difficulties attending 
 my youthful desire for improvement by reading, and their 
 
Chap. I.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 13 
 
 abundant opportunities of acquiring useful knowledge by 
 means of books, may gratitude to Heaven inspire tliem with 
 desires to make a right use of their privileges, and to commi- 
 serate the condition of thousands, even in this day of abun- 
 dance of publications, who yet are probably kept in greater 
 ignorance and privations than I was. 
 
 In 1784, my eleventh year, I obtained the "Economy of 
 Human Life." This was my first purchase, and the begin- 
 ning of my library. It had recently been reprinted in Ame- 
 rica, as were a number of other works, soon after the Revo- 
 lutionary War had subsided and peace was restored. Books 
 were also imported, and opportunities for reading increased, 
 though but few of these fell to my lot, unless I could obtain 
 a loan from others. John Fry's poetic history of Elijah and 
 Elisha was thus borrowed of one of my schoolfellows, and 
 read with great interest. The Bible was read through, and 
 most of the New Testament, in about six weeks. In 1787, 
 Miscellanies, in prose and verse, by Martha Moore, (though 
 without her name,) were published with the approbation of 
 Benjamin Franklin, then called one of the best judges of 
 books. This was added to my library, as a second volume, 
 highly prized, in the 12th month, 1788. The third was Pil- 
 grim's Progress, in 1789; Woolman's Jommal, in 1792; and 
 the Life of Sarah Grubb, in 1793. Such was my beginning 
 of a library. 
 
 A circumstance occurred in my early youth, 1784, that 
 tended powerfully to check the growth of evil propensities, 
 and to produce a profitable and serious consideration of the 
 manner of my life, and the tendency of my actions and con- 
 duct. In the time of a severe thunder-storm, a vivid flash 
 of lightning, with a tremendous peal of thunder, in quick suc- 
 cession, had such an effect on an aunt, who lived with us, that 
 she fell to the floor and screamed with the fright. We chil- 
 dren supposed she had been struck with the thunder and was 
 killed. Several other hard claps of thunder succeeded. Aw- 
 ful alarm and terror pervaded our minds ; and it was y» ith 
 some difficulty we could be pacified. Our dear father at 
 length prevailed on us, by referring to the Almighty power 
 
14' JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1784. 
 
 that could preserve, and telling us that all the men in the 
 world could not hinder or control the lightnins:. 
 
 The awfulness of instantaneous death and a sudden transi- 
 tion to our final reckoning, a consequent state of fixedness in 
 the world to come — were subjects that absorbed the considera- 
 tions of my youthful heart. My aunt, though somewhat 
 stunned by the shock, was not hurt, and soon recovered ; being 
 more affected by the sudden fright than by actual contact 
 with the lightning, which struck a tree perhaps twenty or 
 thirty rods distant. But the effect of this awful season was 
 not soon lost or forgotten. I was induced, through fear of 
 the thunder and through the visitations of Divine goodness, 
 to take heed to my ways, and to endeavour so to live, as to 
 be prepared to die — even if my death should be by means of 
 the awful lightning. 
 
 The thoughts of death and judgment and eternity were 
 often renewed during the summer season, when thunder was 
 heard or lightning seen, even at a distance ; and when near, 
 awfulness, solemnity and deep searching of heart pervaded 
 my feelings. But my terror on these occasions, for several 
 years, amounted almost to agony, and especially in the night 
 season, or when out of doors — so much so as to be afraid to 
 go to sleep, or be in the dark, or remain out of the house. 
 Many an instructive and profitable season of solemn silence 
 has been passed during thunder-storms. Much tenderness, 
 docility and susceptibility of heart have been witnessed at 
 such times. Nor was Divine goodness wanting to show the 
 path of duty, and to point out the errors, omissions, and ini- 
 quities of my life. I now look back with thankfulness for 
 his fatherly chastisements, and the visitations of his love, 
 manifested in seasons when under the influence of fear from 
 these operations of the elements. 
 
 In the course of life, some periods may seem to be more 
 remarkable than others. In my juvenile days, I should mark 
 the year 1784 as one of these. I had gone to school steadily 
 for four or five years previous to this, to Benjamin Kite, 
 before named. I had become much attached to him and to 
 some of my schoolmates ; but in the spring of this year, he 
 removed to Frankford, and the school was conducted by Chris- 
 
Chap. I.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 15 
 
 topher Smith, an Englishman. I ceased going during the 
 summer, being kept at home to work on the farm; and after 
 harvest, my father built a large stone barn, to aid about ■which, 
 my business was to haul water from the creek, for making 
 mortar. A kind of new era seemed to open for boyish 
 amusements ; the imitation of tools, cut out of wood — building, 
 hauling and mechanical operations. But this was favourable 
 to mental improvement, because more rational and elevated 
 than preceding childish sports and pastimes. 
 
 During the latter part of the summer, 1784, I was put to 
 the plough, though not yet eleven years of age. Being of 
 small growth for a ploughboy, the labour at first was very 
 toilsome; but possessing some emulation, I soon became de- 
 lighted with the employment, and made such proficiency in the 
 business, that in the ensuing year, with a little of my father's 
 aid and care, I became principal ploughman. The soil being 
 free from stones, level and loose, and having a good Dutch 
 plough, with gentle horses, I not only improved rapidly in 
 this branch of husbandry, but it also became a delightful em- 
 ployment in relation to the state of my mind. In clear wea- 
 ther, the silence and quietude of the business was favourable 
 to calm meditation. Heavenly goodness, light and love, often 
 visited my youthful heart while folloAving the plough, and I 
 enjoyed seasons of Divine comfort and refreshment, unkno^vn 
 before, and not often found in the bustle of life. Many 
 opportunities occurred for improvement in my thoughts, 
 words and actions, as the retrospect of my life passed in 
 review at some of these seasons of favour. 
 
 My dread of thunder, or of being out in a thunder-gust, 
 however, often marred the satisfaction of being engaged in 
 this employment in the fields. I often watched the clouds — 
 and the sound of distant thunder renewed my anxiety and 
 fears ; under the influence of which, I sometimes unhitched 
 the horses and returned home prematurely, or when no thun- 
 der-gust was near. My father once took me back into the 
 field, on such an occasion, and reproved me for my conduct. 
 At another time, he came to me when I was gazing at the 
 clouds, and listening to the sound of distant thunder, so as to 
 interrupt my ploughing, and asked me if I remembered read- 
 
16 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1784. 
 
 ing, that " he that observeth the wind, shall not sow, and he 
 that regardeth the clouds, shall not reap." 
 
 In the winter season, when neither ploughing, nor thunder- 
 gusts furnished times of serious meditation, or opportunities 
 for such frequent searchings of heart, I often relaxed in 
 watchfulness, and relapsed in my spiritual state. 
 
 After I had passed my tenth year, I had the opportunity 
 of going to school only in the winter season — yet even then, 
 mixing with sprightly boys, and being fond of play at noon- 
 times, — my virtuous, sober habits became alienated, and my 
 watchful state of mind often much dissipated. My fondness 
 for studies and reading, however, acted as a kind of counter- 
 balance, so that the long winter evenings and first-day after- 
 noons were generally employed with my books or my studies. 
 In the summer, likewise, my noon-times and rainy days were 
 often devoted to the pursuit of some literary study or mecha- 
 nical employment. And these inclinations or rational amuse- 
 ments being encouraged by my parents, were favourable, 
 under the Divine superintendency and blessing, for my growth 
 in virtuous habits and dispositions. 
 
 On first-days, we were not allowed to stroll about the neigh- 
 bourhood ; but the inclination for boyish rambles after nuts, 
 birds' nests, squirrels, and setting of traps, &c. now began to 
 produce strong desires for such amusements — and these were 
 increased by the examples and persuasions of boys taken as 
 apprentices in the family, my Father's farm of about one hun- 
 dred and fifty acres was considered our boundary ; yet even on 
 this, we sometimes were prompted to ramble out of his sight in 
 pursuit of forbidden amusements. It might be a lesson of 
 caution to parents concerned for the preservation of their chil- 
 dren in innocency and propriety of conduct, to beware of leav- 
 ing them exposed to the influence of unprincipled domestics, or 
 undisciplined apprentices or bound boys, while they indulge 
 themselves in social visits to their neighbours on first-day 
 afternoons — did they know the liberties taken at such times, 
 and the examples set, or the misconduct exhibited to the ten- 
 der innocent minds of their oifspring. 
 
 On one of these occasions of exposure to temptation, in 
 company with a boy who lived in our family, I and several 
 
Chap. I.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. IT 
 
 of my brothers took a ramble in the fields, remote from the 
 house, on first-day afternoon, and were incited to make much 
 noise by attempts to imitate singing, as practised by vulgar 
 or profane persons. Our unbecoming noise was heard by ray 
 father, who met us on our return, and reproved us in such 
 a manner as made a lasting impression on my mind ; nor was 
 a like occasion ever after given for wounding the sensibilities 
 of a tender parent. 
 
 The thoughts of children in early life are very much occu- 
 pied with visible things. Their innocent amusements absorb 
 their attention. But they love variety — thej' change from 
 one play to another, and their attention is soon turned to new 
 objects. But they have intervals of deeper thouglitfulness 
 than seems necessary for their puerile diversions. Serious 
 accidents and uncommon occurrences that arrest their reflect- 
 ing powers, are often the means to turn their minds to more 
 important considerations. The death of a neighbour, a play- 
 fellow, or a near relative, excites a train of serious thoughts 
 even in the mind of a child. In the recollections of the 
 events of my childhood, one that caused much alarm and seri- 
 ous consideration, was the occurrence of an earthquake. Al- 
 though asleep at the time, and unconscious of the shock, yet 
 the accounts of those who were awake and felt it, together 
 with the remarks on the awfulness of earthquakes in other 
 parts of the world — such as swallowing up whole cities and 
 burying people alive — made deep impressions on my infant 
 mind that were of long continuance, and disposed me to seri- 
 ous considerations on death — sudden and awful death. These 
 thoughts were undoubtedly profitable, as tending to check the 
 excess of childish vivacity, and the ardour of youthful amuse- 
 ments. 
 
 In the latter part of the summer of 1786, an uncle, (the 
 half-brother to my father,) who lived on a farm adjoining, was 
 taken sick. In a few days, his disorder proved to be the 
 small-pox. As neither my father nor any of his children 
 had ever had that disease, it produced great anxiety in the 
 family. At length, it was concluded that 1 and my next 
 younger brother, should go to our uncle's and be inoculated, 
 with our mother to nurse us and assist in our uncle's family ; 
 2 
 
18 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1787. 
 
 all of his children being in the same case. We accordingly 
 went, and were there several weeks ; had the small-pox favour- 
 ably, and at length my father concluded also to be inoculated, 
 with some of the younger children, and we returned home. 
 
 For some months, we had no hired man or boy about the 
 house. My brother and I had the charge of the stock, fod- 
 dering, feeding, cutting stove-wood, going to mill, and other 
 things, during the severe winter of '86-87. Father, although 
 inoculated, and having dieted himself for many weeks pre- 
 vious, had the small-pox very severely ; insomuch that his life 
 was despaired of for some time ; and even when he began to 
 recover, it was very slowly, so that he was confined to his 
 chamber almost till spring. During his extreme illness, my 
 mind was awfully impressed with the idea of his being taken 
 from us by death. I began to feel and anticipate what trouble 
 ■vvas — I looked to the Lord, in my distress, and ci-ied unto the 
 mighty God of Jacob. He heard my prayers, and sealed deep 
 instruction on my mind, through this season of affliction and 
 trial. I had been much exempt from care and responsibility 
 about our farming concerns ; but now, being eldest, and in 
 some respects without a father's directions, my mind renew- 
 edly felt the need of guardian care, and of greater watchful- 
 ness and circumspection, as well as concern to fill up my duty 
 faithfully. They were days not soon forgotten : it was a sea- 
 son, husbanded by Heaven for my good — and it became good 
 for me to be thus afflicted and tried. My ear was thereby 
 more and more opened to discipline. My covenant with my 
 God in the day of my distress was remembered afterward to 
 my profit — and he was mindful of me. 
 
 In a letter to a beloved aimt, written 4th month 1st, 1787, 
 being one of my earliest attempts at letter-writing, I find the 
 following account: — "Dear Aunt — As I said something about 
 my troubles (in my last) I shall now add. One evening thee 
 came to the door and called me. When I came, thee told me 
 my father was very ill, and that if the doctor did not lower 
 his fever, thee Avas afraid it Avould be too many for him. At 
 which I was troubled, and thought what should we do if he 
 died. I went away and cried, for I believe a quarter of an 
 hour. I prayed to the Lord to restore him to health, and I 
 
Chap. I.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 19 
 
 believe lie heard my prayers. About this time, I had many 
 trials, and when in such troubles, I often thought of this sen- 
 tence, ' Many are the troubles of the righteous, yet the Lord 
 delivereth out of them all,' and would be a little comforted. 
 One evening, I came in from work and sat down by the fire — 
 when I silently praised the Lord for his mercy toward me. 
 I also prayed in secret to him, to deliver me from all my 
 troubles. The longer I prayed, the more the tears ran down 
 my face like water, and I blessed him who delivered me. 
 Many more such like seasons I have had, but must conclude. 
 " ' Lord, thou hast delivered me ; therefore will I praise 
 thee, who alone art worthy.' 
 
 " 'The dead, Lord, cannot thee praise, 
 But 'tis the living, they 
 Whom thou hast quicken'd, and dost raise 
 To walk thy holy way.' 
 
 "John Comly." 
 
 My mind being thus humbled and drawn into a channel of 
 serious thoughtfulness, the visitations of Divine goodness were 
 often renewed, and my capacity for understanding the im- 
 pressions of his love was enlarged. I kept steadily to meet- 
 ings on first-days, and the afternoons of that day were gene- 
 rally devoted to reading and quietness. This course appeared 
 to meet the approbation of my tenderly concerned parents. 
 The evenings, also, during the fall and winter season, were 
 generally spent in writing, reading, or some such exercise. 
 A plain, round pine table served for a stand, in the middle 
 of which a tin lamp, filled with hog's lard, was lighted, and 
 thus some fom- or five of us children were seated around it, 
 with our books, while our industrious mother occupied a place 
 with her work. She occasionally dictated pieces from the 
 storehouse of her memory, for us to write down, and other- 
 wise furnished us with many useful and instructive lessons in 
 our learning, and also of a moral and religious character. 
 She was an excellent mother, in every sense, and every duty 
 of her station. My father being a hard-working man, and 
 having less taste for literary pursuits, often passed a part of 
 the evenings in a comfortable sleep, as he lay across two 
 chairs by the stove. 
 
20 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1787. 
 
 Our dress was all homespun, except that ■we were annually, 
 as cold weather approached, furnished with a leather apron, 
 and, when needful, new leather breeches, made of tanned 
 sheepskins, and sometimes buckskin. This picture of our 
 domestic habits obtained till about my seventeenth or eigh- 
 teenth year. It should nevertheless be noted, that we had 
 "first-day suits," of some finer texture, such as cotton or 
 worsted stuffs in summer ; but these lasted so long, that they 
 descended to some two, three or four brothers in succession, 
 as they were outgrown by the elder. 
 
 These external things, here brought into view as history, 
 had much of a tendency to keep our youthful minds from 
 aspiring after finery in dress. They also tended to check the 
 seeds of pride and selfishness, and were undoubtedly auxiliary 
 to the concern of our parents for our guarded education, in 
 the plainness and simplicity of truth. 
 
 In those early days of which I have been speaking, it was 
 customary for quite small boys to have what would now be 
 called long-tailed coats as their first-day dress. On my 
 parents furnishing me with an opportunity of having a coat 
 of this description of homemade cloth, they gave me the 
 choice of having it made plain, or with cross pockets, such as 
 my father always wore. I chose to have it made plain; and 
 never had one made otherwise. Whatever principle it was 
 that then determined my election, I believe it has many times 
 since been a blessing to me, as a monitor to remind me 
 of a plainness of conduct corresponding with the cut of my 
 coat. 
 
 In reviewing my early life, I am constantly induced to 
 recur to the influence of a mother's concern for my welfare. 
 She had secured my affections by her kindness and assiduity ; 
 she therefore, without austerity, and even without much per- 
 suasion, could exert her tender care for my good in many 
 dittle incidents that might appear trifling in themselves, but 
 which, in their bearings and effects, were important in deter- 
 mining my path through life. Oh ! for a more general pre- 
 valence of such maternal religious concern and solicitude. 
 Oh! for an increase of watchful care in mothers, over the 
 opening inclinations, passions and propensities of children, to 
 
Chap. I.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 21 
 
 train and turn them into right channels of discipline, under 
 the influence of affection sanctified by Divine love ! 
 
 That I had inclinations and incitements to vanity and folly, 
 not a few; that I had temptations to deviate from the dis- 
 cipline of parental restraint — I must admit. Yet merciful 
 Goodness forsook me not in the slippery paths of youth. The 
 visitations of my fourteenth year had left a deep impression 
 on my mind. I had become acquainted with trouble, and the 
 consolations of looking up to heaven for support in seasons 
 of trial. Hence, when deep conviction and remorse ensued, 
 on my deviating from the path of rectitude, I found my peace 
 consisted in returning as a penitent to implore mercy and 
 forgiveness of my heavenly Father. Nor was he wanting in 
 the manifestation of judgments and mercies to my soul. 
 When I rebelled, he chastised me with his rod of correction ; 
 and when I turned at his reproof, he healed my wounds, and 
 gave me to feel of his mercy and forgiveness, and the renew- 
 ings of his love. 
 
 I think it was during the fourteenth or fifteenth year of my 
 age, that I felt a concern to attend week-day meetings ; for, 
 although my mother was a diligent attender of meetings twice 
 a week, my father generally omitted those on fourth-days, espe- 
 cially in the busy season of the year, and I was kept at home 
 to work also. But as this desire increased in me to go to week- 
 day meetings, I at length asked liberty to attend, and he gave 
 me permission. This request had to be repeated several times 
 afterward, before he understood that I considered it a settled 
 duty to be diligent in going to meeting on week-days as well 
 as first-days. Although it was a task to my diffident mind to 
 ask permission, yet I do not remember ever being refused. 
 And at length it appeared to have this effect on my father's 
 mind, that he went more frequently himself, and in a while 
 became a diligent attender on fourth as well as first-days. 
 
 Long before, as well as after this event, my seeking, inquir- 
 ing mind had often earnestly wished to understand the nature 
 of silent spiritual worship; or, in Scripture language, the 
 "worship in spirit and in truth," that is acceptable to God. 
 This was a profitable exercise, and was gradually opened to 
 my understanding as I was able to bear it. 
 
22 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1788. 
 
 In the year 1788, James Thornton left us to go to England. 
 His ministry had often been baptizing to my mind, and his 
 farewell sermon was peculiarly so. Many other powerful 
 testimonies had a reaching and instructive effect on my 
 mental feelings. Often also, when at plough, my mind was 
 livingly visited with the illuminations of Divine Truth, and the 
 things which belong to my everlasting peace opened to my 
 view. I saw at times, that if I stood faithful to the discove- 
 ries and manifestations of Truth, I should some time be called 
 to the work of the ministry ; and at times, I felt a living flow 
 of pure love passing through my soul, that seemed as if it 
 would gather all into its holy influence. 
 
 But these days were succeeded by the trials of opening 
 manhood, when the passions and propensities of animal nature 
 more and more appear, and produce sore conflict in the sincere 
 enlightened mind. " The flesh lusteth against the spirit, and 
 the spirit against the flesh, and these are contrary the one to 
 the other." Yet, thou fellow-probationer, who may est read 
 these lines and trace them in thy own experience, be not thou 
 discouraged. He who has shown thee the narrow way that 
 leads to eternal life, is able, and will, as thou seekest him and 
 reliest upon his own power, assuredly give thee the victory 
 over all the lusts of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the 
 pride of life, which is not of, or under the government of the 
 Father, but of thy earthly or animal nature. Be thou faith- 
 ful unto the death of the cross, and self-denial to all these as 
 they arise and usurp dominion, or demand gratification in thee, 
 and thou wilt assuredly in due time receive a crown of life. 
 
 About the time of my conflicts and trials arising from an 
 inclination to mix in the circle of vain young people, I ob- 
 tained a loan of the Journal of John Woolman for perusal. 
 This opened a new and enlarged field of view to my mind ; 
 nor can I set forth the goodness of the heavenly Parent, in 
 thus furnishing a living experimental testimony to the opera- 
 tion of his power and goodness, in the example of that 
 humble, self-denying follower of the Lamb. 
 
 In the review of my youthful days — the period in which 
 my course of life received the main bent of its direction, as 
 to the improvement of mind — I think proper to notice some 
 
Chap. I.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 23 
 
 occurrences and amusements whicli had an influence on my 
 habits of thinking, and on some of the conduct and manners 
 of my life, at that, as well as subsequent periods. Among 
 those amusements, the permission and encouragement given 
 hy my parents to the pursuit of mechanical operations, as Avell 
 as literary attainments, during noon-times, when at plouo-h, 
 and rainy days, as well as other intervals from manual labour 
 on the farm, claim a share of proper consideration. They 
 certainly were a stimulus to voluntary industry — they drew 
 forth the energies of juvenile intellect : — habits of useful em- 
 ployment were thereby promoted, and the temptations and 
 mischiefs of idleness, or listless indolence, and also vain pas- 
 times and sports, to a great degree were prevented. 
 
 From the operations of a pocket-knife in carving out the 
 imitation of spades and shovels, of axes and wagons, carts, 
 wheelbarrows, ploughs, &c., these amusements extended to 
 the construction of mills to be propelled by wind and water ; 
 the latter — principally in imitation of an oil-mill — was brought 
 to greatest perfection. This led to collecting the seeds of dif- 
 ferent kinds of weeds and grasses, which were substituted for 
 flaxseed, buckwheat and other grain. In the pursuit and 
 accomplishment of these mechanical imitations, we were much 
 assisted by a turning-lathe which my father purchased at a 
 vendue, and, in learning to use it with effect, a much wider 
 range of useful productions occupied our leisure hours. 
 
 Near the site of our oil-mill, located on a small stream of 
 water, there happened to be a space of vacant ground, unen- 
 closed, as large as a small garden spot. This was fixed on 
 as a place for a nursery of apple-trees, and fenced in with 
 pieces of old rails and stakes. The apple-seeds contained in 
 a cider-cheese, after it was thoroughly pressed, being spread 
 over the ground in a field, at the time of sowing wheat in the 
 fall, and harrowed in with the grain, produced a plentiful sup- 
 ply of young apple-plants in the ensuing spring and the sum- 
 mer following. These being transplanted into our nursery, 
 grew beneath our careful cultivation — attended with the ope- 
 rations of the hoe and the pruning-knife — and as they attained 
 sufncicnt size, became a source not only of pleasing amuse- 
 ment, but of pecuniary profit, to a small amount. 
 
24 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1788. 
 
 But over and above all this, these employments of my small 
 leisure time, together with my books and literary studies, were 
 a means of keeping my mind as well as my body at home. 
 They acted as a restraint to boyish propensities for rambling 
 abroad. In my rural, retired situation and innocent occupa- 
 tions, as well as when following the plough, Divine goodness 
 often visited my soul, and gradually opened my understand- 
 ing. The soil of my heart was thereby, like a garden en- 
 closed, better fitted for the germination of those seeds of the 
 heavenly Father's right-hand planting, which in their growth 
 produce the fruits of righteousness and peace by which he is 
 glorified. 
 
 I view the situation of my childhood and youth, and the 
 employments of my juvenile years, secluded as they were 
 from many temptations to youthful vanities and follies, and 
 in a great degree from the influence of evil examples and 
 vicious companions, as the mercies of a gracious Providence 
 that demand my unceasing gratitude and love. 
 
 But though, in the slippery paths of youth I was thus 
 shielded from many exposures to evil, I was not exempt 
 from the trials and conflicts of the cross, in the subjugation of 
 my animal propensities. I ventured, sometimes, in my father's 
 absence, to get his gun and exercise myself, first in shoot- 
 ing at a mark, and then sometimes in trying to shoot birds. 
 It was well that no serious accident occurred ; but I was no 
 less culpable because there did not. I wanted to learn to 
 shoot with a gun, but I ought to have consulted an expe- 
 rienced father, who, no doubt, at a proper time, as he had 
 done in teaching me to swim, would have given me insti'uc- 
 tions how to use such a dangerous weapon of death. In this 
 unjustifiable, clandestine way, I amused myself for some time 
 in learning to load and fire a gun. This increased my desire 
 to have one of my own, especially as my father's was a very 
 heavy one. With the moneys raised by trapping muskrats 
 and partridges, gathering chestnuts and raising tobacco, as- 
 also the little perquisites arising from the turning-lathe in 
 making spools, &c., I contemplated the purchase of a gun, 
 that I might have one of my own. While I was waiting for 
 the accumulation of my funds, I procured a cow or bullock's 
 
Chap. I.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 25 
 
 horn from one of the tan-yards in the Northern Liberties of 
 Philadelphia. This was boiled and scraped, and finished off 
 for the purpose of a powder-horn, to which a shot-bag was ap- 
 pended of my own fabrication. Nothing now was wanting, 
 but the amount of money equal to the price of a new gun ; 
 unless, indeed, we except a mental feeling, which, the nearer 
 I approached the completion of my project, the keener and 
 clearer were my convictions of the cruelty of gunning, and 
 shooting innocent animals for amusement. 
 
 During the time of privately using my father's fowling- 
 piece in his absence, after my task of work which he had 
 assigned me was fully accomplished, I sometimes spent an 
 afternoon, or part of one, in traversing the woods, the fields 
 and hedges, to seek for game ; and at times, with powder and 
 shot, destroyed some innocent lives. But when I took a 
 retrospect of my conduct, and seriously meditated on the time 
 thus misspent, the reflections became increasingly painful, 
 and I often thought how much better the time might have 
 been occupied among my books, or useful studies and innocent 
 employments. These convictions and frequent considerations, 
 attended or produced by the illuminating influence of the 
 Light of truth, mercy and goodness, so operated on my mind 
 that I totally relinquished the sanguine, though boyishly 
 pleasing desire, and never purchased nor owned a gun in my 
 life. 
 
 The same kind of views and feelings, as they increased and 
 enlarged in my mind, induced me to decline the use of that 
 weapon, so often the instrument of wanton destruction, 
 misery and death. I rejoice in the retrospect of my deliver- 
 ance from this temptation to violate the tender sensibilities 
 of truth and compassion in my soul ; and I feel the sacred 
 obligation of gratitude to the God of mercy and kindness, who 
 redeemed me from the fancied pleasures of this delusive 
 amusement, in the days when the ardour of youthful propen- 
 sities was strong in my animal nature. I ascribe it to his 
 grace and good Spirit, as a fruit of that seed of gentleness 
 and compassion, early unfolded in my infant heart, in a ten- 
 der sympathy toward innocent, unoffending animals. 
 
 I fully believe the administration of the Divine laws is 
 
26 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1788. 
 
 wisely adapted to tlie circumstances and situation of his 
 rational, intelligent creatures. Hence, a few remarks on the 
 subject under review may be needful. I was located where 
 the plea of hunting what is called "wild game" for food, is 
 generally unnecessary. Necessity therefore cannot be urged 
 as a justification of the practice of gunning, or shooting birds 
 and wild animals. Had I been brought up in a wilderness, 
 or newly settled country where provisions were scarce, the 
 use of the gun for procuring food might not have been for- 
 bidden me. Hunting, even with dogs and gun, might have 
 been necessary, not for sport and pastime, but for subsist- 
 ence. Circumstanced as I then was, and as thousands now 
 are in many places, it was to me, and it is now, but wanton 
 sport — it is cruel — it is an unjustifiable amusement — it is a 
 misspending of precious time — and it often introduces to idle 
 and wicked company, and leads to dissipated and intemperate 
 habits and actions ; it also induces hardness of heart, in the 
 infliction of unnecessary pain, misery and sufl"ering upon many 
 harmless animals. 
 
 In a properly guarded education of youth, the amusement 
 of gunning cannot be admitted, nor the use of a gun, on any 
 other substantial ground than necessity; and this necessity 
 must be determined by the pure dictates of Divine truth im- 
 pressed upon the mind, or otherwise by the experience of 
 those who act as delegates for God, in disciplining the way- 
 ward youthful mind to submit to correct principles, in order 
 to form correct habits. For want of this guardian care and 
 disciplinary restraint in parents and care-takers, 
 
 " The spring-time of our years 
 Is soon dishonour'd, and defiled in most 
 By budding ills that need a prudent hand 
 To check them ; but, alas I none sooner shoots, 
 If unrestrain'd, into luxuriant growth, 
 Than cruelty, most dev'lish of them all. 
 Ye therefore who love mercy, teach your sons 
 To love it too." 
 
 And that for the awful reason — 
 
 " Mercy, to him that shows it, is the rule 
 And righteous limitation of its act, 
 
Chap. L] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 27 
 
 By ■which Heaven moves in pardoning guilty man ; 
 And he that shows none, being ripe in years, 
 And conscious of the outrage he commits, 
 Will seek it, and not find it in his turn." 
 
 In accordance with that prayer, "Forgive us our trespasses 
 as we forgive them that trespass against us," we hope for 
 mercy when we show mercy to others ; and " blessed are the 
 merciful, for they shall obtain mercy." 
 
 While calling to remembrance some of the transactions of 
 my early life that appear to have contributed to my mental 
 improvement, or that were economized by Heaven for my 
 good, I may note the incident of my keeping a regular account 
 of the snows that fell during several winters. Considered in 
 itself, it was of small moment to be able to tell how many 
 times snow fell during a winter. But the exercise led to 
 habits of observing other passing events, and of fixing my 
 attention on what was valuable or important ; and I now see 
 that even this little work of making memorandums of the 
 weather, in my youth, was an introduction to a profitable prac- 
 tice of observation and keeping notes of memorable circum- 
 stances. 
 
 It was among the defects of the then existing course of 
 exercises at schools, that composition, or learning to arrange 
 thoughts and describe occurrences on paper, was not at all 
 attended to. Hence the use and application of learning to 
 write was of little benefit beyond copying, till necessity or 
 inclination prompted the attempt to compose a letter or 
 indite an essay. My first attempts at composition were labo- 
 rious and awkward, I might say, in the extreme. Having 
 never been put to this useful exercise at school, imder the eye 
 and assistance of a teacher, and being too diifident to ask aid 
 of others, yet desirous of acquiring the art of composition, I 
 laboured at it by myself for several years, with very little 
 improvement. I had become fond of reading and of copying 
 poetry, and felt quite desirous of being able to compose poetic 
 pieces. Some laboured attempts at this were made about the 
 age of fifteen, sixteen and eighteen. They gave evidence of 
 religious feeling and thoughtfulness, but were only imitations 
 of Mary Mollincux, John Fry, or almanac essays. Yet the 
 
28 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1790. 
 
 exercise and labour of thinking and arranging ideas on paper 
 had some utility in relation to mental improvement. Had 
 my first efforts been to acquire an easy style of prose compo- 
 sition, on the scale of simple narrative, it would doubtless 
 have facilitated my attainment of this practical application of 
 the art of writing; but having no prompter or instructor, I 
 had to find out the obscure path alone. 
 
 Another memorable era in my life occurred soon after I 
 had completed my sixteenth year. The operation of various 
 external circumstances, some of which I have adverted to, 
 had a tendency to prepare my mind for receiving further illu- 
 minations of Divine truth, by which the mists of ignorance 
 and prejudice were gradually removed. New views were 
 opened and new duties discovered, in relation to the obliga- 
 tions of gratitude and love to my supreme Benefactor, and 
 respecting the regulation and improvement of my own mind. 
 
 The visit of Job Scott to our meeting, in the 1st month, 
 1790, and his powerful testimony delivered there, had a 
 reaching and convincing effect on my mind. Never before 
 had I any recollection of such an instrumental "\asitation of 
 Divine love. His ministry had a baptizing influence that 
 immersed my soul into a holy feeling of good. The savour 
 and sweetness thereof rested with me for a number of days. 
 It was the gospel of Christ and glad tidings to the poor in 
 spirit. It was the power of the Highest overshadowing my 
 visited mind. The seeds of the kingdom of God were watered 
 in my heart, and encouragement administered to advance for- 
 ward in the work of renovation. 
 
 In my father's family, and so far as my limited observa- 
 tions extended among Friends and neighbours, the practice 
 of making a solemn pause on sitting down at table to partake 
 of the bounties of Providence, was unknown to me. In Dil- 
 worth's spelling-book, I had read the church forms of what is 
 called "Grace before and after meat;" but I had never wit- 
 nessed the form nor the substance, as a practice, among 
 Friends. In the spring of the year 1790, being the seven- 
 teenth of my age, this subject closely arrested my attention ; 
 and one day as I was following the plough, the powerful over- 
 shadowings of Divine love M'ere renewedly extended to my 
 
Chap. I.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 29 
 
 soul. Under this precious feeling, it was given me to see the 
 necessity and duty of making a solemn, silent pause at table, 
 in which the mind might feel reverently thankful, before par- 
 taking of the blessings of Heaven in the provision made for 
 these bodies. I saw that hitherto I had been too careless 
 and un thoughtful whence these good things were derived ; but 
 now I must no longer eat and drink as a brute animal. I 
 saw the substance of "grace before meat," and that in 
 solemn stillness I should look up to the bountiful Benefactor, 
 and partake of his blessings with thankfulness of heart. A 
 like pause after eating or drinking, I saw was the substance 
 of "grace after meat," and a duty opened for my future ob- 
 servance. 
 
 The place where I was when these views were opened to 
 me, and the joy and sweetness that attended my mind, 
 remained a long time fresh in my memory, and I was often 
 confirmed in a belief of its being a revelation of the Father 
 of mercies to my poor soul. Joy and gladness filled my heart 
 for the unspeakable favour, so that my cup seemed to over- 
 flow, and a cheering hope revived, that I should, through obe- 
 dience and faithfulness, experience an increase in the know- 
 ledge of God, which I had much desired. 
 
 As I before noted, the practice of silent waiting at table 
 was not observed by others, so now it became a close trial to 
 me to make a silent pause and be singular from the rest of 
 the family. But as I endeavoured to be obedient in fulfilling 
 this reasonable duty, my heavenly Father was not Avanting at 
 such seasons to solemnize my mind and influence my heart 
 with grateful sensations. Sometimes a short sentence of 
 thankful acknowledgment livingly ran through my mind, and 
 was mentally ofi'ered up to Him who sees in secret, and who 
 rewarded me with peace in my dedication. But it was felt 
 to be an awful thing to address the Almighty Being, even in 
 the language of thought, with such words as "I thank thee, 
 Lord, for these blessings set before me;" and my spirit was 
 often contrited in deep humility and reverence before him. 
 
 Being thus convinced that it was acceptable in the Divine 
 sight, for the mind to be engaged in silent adoration and 
 gratitude, while partaking of outward food for the nourish- 
 
30 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1790. 
 
 jnent and support of these bodies, I was induced to beware of 
 unnecessary discourse while eating; and when I did other- 
 wise, I felt uneasiness : I also often felt pain of mind when I 
 heard others laughing and talking at table in a light manner. 
 My silence and example on the subject of this duty to my 
 God, appeared to have an influence on the family; for, in 
 course of time, it became the common practice to observe a 
 silent pause at table, before beginning to eat — and not only 
 in my father's family, but generally in the neighbourhood, 
 especially among Friends, and I have lived to see it prevailing 
 among the members of our Society and others, to a large 
 extent. 
 
 In those days of youthful improvement and lively sensi- 
 bility, the want of consistency among those who appeared to 
 be religious, or made high profession, often affected me with 
 sorrow; among other things, I was much tried that Fi'iends in 
 general appeared so little acquainted with the substance of 
 what other societies call "grace before meat." I believed it 
 right that we should not be confined to set forms of words, 
 learned by rote and repeated with little or no religious feel- 
 ing; but I feared that Friends, in discarding the ceremonial 
 forms of "grace" and "prayers," had also lost or neglected 
 to feel after the substance. Thus, their children and families 
 grew up with a rawness, ignorance and apparent insensibility 
 of the obligations of gratitude, due for the bountiful provisions 
 for these bodies in food, clothing and other comfortable accom- 
 modations. 
 
 Not long after this heavenly visitation, and further mani- 
 festation of Divine light, another subject of duty and improve- 
 ment was opened to my view. This was the obligation I was 
 under to seek after God, by endeavouring to draw near him 
 in spirit when I awoke in the morning, in order that I might 
 be enabled to offer up to him my grateful acknowledgments 
 for his care and protection over me during the night. This 
 moi-ning sacrifice also embraced the duty of feeling after the 
 spirit of supplication, for his continued preservation through 
 the coming day. And this again led to the exercise of 
 increaeing watchfulness over the state of my mind, and over 
 my words and actions. As I obeyed these manifestations of 
 
Chap. I.] XARRATIYE OF EARLY LIFE. 31 
 
 Divine truth, I found the aid of his grace was not wanting, 
 when in sincerity I sought it, to enable me to fulfil these 
 duties. But He who thus led me along and instructed me, 
 saw meet sometimes to vail his presence, as it were, for a 
 time. This induced greater fervency of desire in my mind, 
 until he was pleased to appear and give me the spirit of grati- 
 tude and of supplication ; for I found I could not pray at any 
 time when I pleased. But as I wrestled in spirit for the 
 Divine blessing, and gave not over the exercise, he appeared 
 in due season for the renewal of my strength. 
 
 Many times as I walked out in the fields about my business 
 on the farm, I witnessed such joy and heavenly light that 
 seemed to environ my soul, and such sweet access to the 
 throne of grace — that my prayers were put up in fervent 
 breathings to my God for his holy help and preservation — 
 insomuch, that the heavenly impression sometimes remained 
 through most of the ensuing day. 
 
 Daniel prayed and gave thanks to his God three times a 
 day ; so in my childish state was I led to a like exercise. 
 Not only was the duty of a solemn, grateful pause to be ob- 
 served at dinner-time, but I found the need of a renewal of 
 spiritual strength, by and through the exercise of waiting 
 upon God, till I could find access to his throne in the spirit 
 of supplication. Sometimes, after dinner, I found it needful 
 to retire alone and sit in silence, waiting for his arising in my 
 soul. This I could do, in the summer season, generally, when 
 I followed the plough ; having at my own disposal about two 
 hours noon-time, while the horses were eating. But there 
 was often a severe struggle in my mind, between the business 
 and amusement of the turning-lathe, &c. and the duty of 
 silently waiting on my God. It was a discipline of obedience 
 to the cross ; and when this sacrifice, even of commendable 
 industry, was promptly made, it was productive of peace. 
 But when I endeavoured to accomplish both at the same time 
 in opposition to the impression to retire alone, I was disap- 
 pointed of a peaceful and profitable result. Yet there were 
 seasons in which the Divine presence was felt after and en- 
 joyed, at the time that my hands were industriously employed 
 in useful pursuits. As I kept my eye to the Divine light, and 
 
32 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1790. 
 
 honestly endeavoured to follow its dictates, my soul was mnaj 
 times filled with the consolations of the love of God. I had 
 many heavenly openings in Divine things, and in regard to 
 my everlasting peace and well-being. For these manifesta- 
 tions of his condescending goodness, mercy and love, my 
 soul did praise and magnify the name of the Lord my Sa- 
 viour. My heart was often melted into contrition, and my 
 prayers were offered up in sincerity and humility for his holy 
 aid, direction, and protection in the way I should walk. 
 
 The evening oblation, as opened to my view by the same 
 Divine teacher, consisted in the exercise of carefully looking 
 over my actions and the state of my mind during the preced- 
 ing day, and of impartially examining how I had spent my 
 time, before I closed my eyes for sleep ; together with an en- 
 gagement of mind to offer up the tribute of gratitude to God 
 for his mercies, his care and protection. In this review of 
 the accounts of the past day, if I found any thing said or done 
 amiss, on bringing my deeds to the light, I was engaged to 
 seek after a state of repentance and forgiveness. And when 
 all appeared to speak peace, and I could look up to Heaven 
 without condemnation, the offering of thankfulness and love 
 to my gracious Preserver enabled me to commit myself to his 
 care and keeping through the hours of sleep. But when, 
 through weariness or inattention, this retrospect of the pre- 
 ceding day's accounts has been neglected, the awful thought 
 has followed on awaking, what would have been my portion 
 had I been cut off while asleep, and called to a final reckon- 
 ing at the awful tribunal of the Judge of quick and dead. 
 This acted as a powerful stimulus to faithfulness in the fulfil- 
 ment of this and other duties ; and I found great profit as 
 well as peace in these religious exercises. 
 
 Another profitable exercise of self-examination was im- 
 pressed on my mind, by a deep consideration of the declara- 
 tion of Jesus Christ, "that for every idle word that men shall 
 speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judg- 
 ment." As this subject took hold of my mind, I became very 
 desirous to know what words were "idle," as respected my 
 use of them, Nor was Divine goodness wanting, to answer 
 my sincere inquiries on this subject. Although I had never 
 
Chap. I.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 33 
 
 been addicted to cursing, swearing, or the use of what is called 
 profane or obscene language ; yet, among the habits that had 
 grown up with me from childhood, I detected myself in using 
 a number of boyish, unmeaning by-words, and trifling, vain 
 or improper expressions. As these were now seen to be un- 
 necessary and useless, (if no worse,) they were considered of 
 the class of "idle words" that shall be accounted for "in the 
 day of judgment." The awfulness of the judgment-day was 
 so solemnly impressed on my mind, that I became earnestly 
 engaged to examine and review my conversation, in order that 
 I might know redemption from the habit of using "idle words." 
 If, when at plough, or at other times, any persons droAv me 
 into social converse, as soon as they were gone I retraced 
 every word and expression I had used, in order to ascertain 
 whether all was right and true, or whether any useless or idle 
 words had escaped my lips. This induced a watchful care 
 over my words and conversation, and led me into much silence 
 and circumspection. Through the help of Divine grace, as I 
 kept to this practice of retrospection, I soon broke myself of 
 the use of a number of idle by-words, and insignificant or use- 
 less phrases and expressions. And as I gradually gained this 
 victory, I more and more came to see the beauty, and to feel 
 the peace of an "upright conversation." 
 
 During this memorable period of my life, among other 
 means of improvement, I read much (or rather very fre- 
 quently) in the Scriptures, on first-days and other leisui'e 
 times. My opportunity of reading other books, even if in- 
 clination had led to it, was very limited. My father's collec- 
 tion of books was yet very small, and I had but little means 
 of purchasing or procuring books of my own. Such was the 
 seeking, inquiring state of my mind after a fuller and nearer 
 acquaintance with my God, and the knowledge of his will, that 
 I had little disposition to wander abroad in search of what I 
 had begun to find within. Yet the reading of some portions 
 of Scripture was often blessed to me by the Divine opener, 
 and I loved to meditate on his dealings with the children of 
 men in former ages, as thus brought into view. 
 
 If I found a leaf, or piece of a leaf of the Bible or Testa- 
 ment, I put it into my pocket ; and when at plough, while the 
 
34 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1790. 
 
 horses were turning round at the end of a furrow, I frequently 
 had opportunity of taking it out and reading a verse without 
 any hinderance to my work. This often furnished me with an 
 interesting subject of meditation, for a round or two. Nor 
 was the only true interpreter or expounder of Scripture, the. 
 Spirit of Truth, wanting, to open and seal instruction on my 
 understanding, through this simple medium. 
 
 Many heavenly seasons were thus vouchsafed to me as I 
 followed the plough. It was an employment peculiarly favour- 
 able, at that time, to my mental improvement — no interrup- 
 tion from surrounding objects to draw off my attention. And 
 not only ploughing, but various other parts of agricultural 
 business in which I was engaged, were favourable to my reli- 
 gious growth and improvement. Oh! how many involve them- 
 selves in diflRculties, expose themselves to temptations and 
 sacrifice their own mercies, by leaving the calm and quiet life 
 of agriculture, and going to cities and villages, to trades and 
 business in which there are perplexities and anxieties, noise 
 and unprofitable company, that tend to divert their attention 
 from the one thing needful. It is true that some of the occu- 
 pations of the farmer are laborious, but none of them need 
 be oppressive if the true medium of labour is observed ; and 
 the sleep of the ploughboy and the farmer is generally sweet, 
 their appetites are good, and with prudence and moderation 
 in their business, they have large opportunities of enjoying 
 leisure and of acquiring intellectual improvement. 
 
 In the early days of my youth, the custom of using spiritu- 
 ous liquors as a drink in times of gathering hay and harvest, 
 was common in the neighbourhood and in my father's family. 
 The use of rum, and strong cider, was also frequent on other 
 occasions. When my father built a stone barn, in the year 
 1784, 1 was the carrier of many gallons of rum (as I suppose) 
 from James Thornton's store, for the use of the carpenters, 
 masons, and other workmen. From my frequent opportunities 
 of tasting it, I became fond of a dram, and was in great danger 
 of being injured by it before I was twelve years old. But 
 when the yearly meeting, a few years after, became exercised 
 on the subject, and issued advices to discourage the customary 
 use of ardent spirits, I was soon convinced of the impropriety 
 
Chap. II.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 35 
 
 of the practice, and wholly declined the use of rum, or other 
 spirituous liquors, in mowing-time and harvest, as -well as on 
 other occasions. 
 
 This was to me a merciful deliverance from the baneful 
 habit of using and acquiring a love of strong drink. It 
 claims my gratitude to that gracious Providence, who ten- 
 derly watched over me through the slippery paths of youth. 
 
 Temperance in eating and in drinking became a settled tes- 
 timony in my mind, some time before I attained the age of 
 manhood. A watchful care to restrain and govern my appe- 
 tite, doubtless contributed to health of body and serenity of 
 mind. 
 
 CHAPTER 11. 
 
 As the main object of preserving this narrative, is to com- 
 memorate and exemplify the goodness of the Almighty in his 
 dealings with me in my youth, if happily it may be the means 
 of encouragement to others, to give early attention and obe- 
 dience to the dictates of His holy spirit in their own minds — 
 so I think proper to mention some incidents in which my 
 fidelity to those dictates was .proved. In one case, having 
 heard reports unfavourable to the character of a Friend who 
 filled one of the most conspicuous stations in our meeting, it 
 was impressed on my mind as a duty to go and see him, and 
 obtain from himself an understanding of the case, as well as 
 to inform him of the reports concerning him. But he being 
 an bid man and I a diffident youth, it was a very great trial 
 to me. After a close conflict of mind between obedience to 
 apprehended duty, and the slavish fear of man, I at length be- 
 came willing to go. Accordingly, I Avent to his house, and 
 finding him alone, a favourable opportunity occurred of open- 
 ing to him the concern I felt in relation to his conduct. After 
 another severe struggle, as I looked to the Lord for help, I 
 ventured to open my mind to him concerning what I had 
 heard. This was done (in the language of early Friends) 
 
36 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1790 
 
 " in the fear and dread of the Almighty." Perhaps it 'would 
 be proper also to say, in the fear of the Friend's displeasure. 
 To my disappointment, however, he manifested no resentment 
 toward me. He appeared to he sensible of the concern I was 
 under, and explained the circumstances of the case so as to 
 leave my mind more at ease and better satisfied with his con- 
 duct than I was before. I returned with great peace of mind, 
 in the consciousness of having discharged my duty toward a 
 Friend whom I had much esteemed — and he afterward showed 
 more attention and regard to me than before. 
 
 Another instance of apprehended duty was to visit an aged 
 Friend and his family, who lived perhaps near four miles from 
 our meeting, and seldom attended it. After being some time 
 exercised in this concern, I set out on foot one first-day after- 
 noon, and by inquiry found the way to his house. He and 
 his wife were alone at home, and I had conversation in the 
 fear of the Lord, in relation to their getting to meeting more 
 frequently and bringing their children ; and also in regard to 
 the education of their sons in plainness and consistency with 
 the discipline of truth. The mother remarked that she had 
 never corrected any of her children with a rod, for which she 
 gave this reason, that I thought a weak one : — " I thought," said 
 she, "if any of them should die, afterward, how should I feel!" 
 The father also appeared to be of an easy, indulgent dispo- 
 sition; and thus their sons, of whom they had five or six, 
 were left to grow up in a raw, undisciplined manner, in a 
 neighbourhood much exposed to unprofitable company. As 
 none of them were at home, I had not an opportunity of see- 
 ing them; but my heart felt pity and concern for them. So, 
 after giving the parents some advice, among which was their 
 getting Friends' books for their children to read, and trying 
 to keep them more at home on first-day afternoons, I left 
 them, and had a solitary but peaceful walk home. 
 
 From the preceding narratives, it may be perceived that- in 
 those days my mind was often in a state of tender feeling — 
 easily susceptible of impressions which I took to be Divine. 
 I had read John Woolman's Journal as before noted. His 
 testimony and example thus presented to m}^ view, in relation 
 to humanity, tenderness and compassion toward dumb ani- 
 
Chap. II.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 37 
 
 mals, were cordial and confirming to mj early and subsequent 
 impressions and views on that subject. His sympathy for the 
 sufferings and afflictions of others touched a kindred feeling 
 in my own mind, and his testimony and arguments against 
 slavery, oppression and cruelty, sunk deep into my heart. 
 
 In this state of mind, there fell into my hands a pamphlet, 
 written, as I have since understood, by Thomas Clarkson, at 
 the time when he and others were zealously labouring with 
 the British Parliament and nation, for abolishing the slave- 
 trade with the West Indies. The vivid description of the 
 sufferings and cruelties attendant on this inhuman trafEc, 
 deeply affected my sensitive and sympathetic feelings. The 
 object of the writer appeared to be to dissuade the people 
 from using the West India sugar and rum; and this was 
 strongly urged, by alleging that these products were dyed 
 scarlet in the blood of the enslaved Africans, 
 
 This appeal and description wrought powerfully on my 
 sympathetic feelings, and I soon became prepared for adopt- 
 ing the measure of abstaining from the use of the West India 
 produce. As the book treated chiefly on the subject of absti- 
 nence from the use of West India sugar, rum, and molasses, I 
 took up the cross to indulging myself, and scrupulously re- 
 frained from partaking of these, in order that I might be 
 clear of innocent blood, or of being in any wise instrumental 
 in upholding the cruelties of the African slave trade. 
 
 In avoiding the use of West India produce, I was often 
 brought into trials of my faithfulness and firmness in support 
 of this duty, as I considered it to be, especially when abroad. 
 At home, my mother indulged me in this singularity with 
 much tenderness, for she saw my sincerity in thus taking up 
 the cross to my appetite for sweet things, and when it was 
 practicable she furnished me with honey instead of sugar- 
 But when I was from home, I sometimes was under a neces- 
 sity of giving my reasons for abstaining from eating sweet- 
 meats, pies, puddings, &;c. This was generally done in very 
 few words; for although it became a subject of frequent 
 remark, I seldom felt a liberty or apprehended duty to say 
 much about it to others. 
 
 This subject and the frequency of its recurrence to my 
 
38 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1790. 
 
 reflections, led me into a wide range of serious considerations 
 on otlier various degrees of oppression, exercised in the crea- 
 tion, or ratlier on the creatures endowed with feeling. My 
 sympathies were often called into action by what little I knew 
 or heard of on these subjects ; and frequent were the desires 
 I felt to be redeemed from the spirit of cruelty, injustice, and 
 oppression. 
 
 In reviewing this scruple in regard to the use of West India 
 produce, it appears to have been the effect of a strong appeal 
 to the sympathies of my nature as a man, in behalf of suffer- 
 ing humanity, and thus enlisted my humane feelings in forming 
 what I believed to be a religious concern or testimony. I am 
 also ready to conclude that this was permitted in Divine wis- 
 dom, that I might be disciplined in the path of self-denial; for 
 it had the effect to induce me to examine other subjects con- 
 nected with the testimony of Truth against violence, cruelty, 
 fraud, oppression, war, and injustice. One thing, however, 
 seemed proper to be noted in a retrospect of the years which 
 were passed in the observance of a scrupulous abstinence from 
 the use of West India produce. By some information derived 
 from external sources, (as the origin of this concern was from 
 the pamphlet.) I learned that there were East India and some 
 other sugars to be had, that were not manufactured by slaves. 
 
 Of teas, sugars, molasses, coffee, rice, and various other ai'ti- 
 cles of food brought from foreign countries, we know little but 
 what comes to us by the information of others. That these 
 things are not evil in themselves, I suppose all will allow ; but 
 if they come to us through fraud, violence, and oppression, we 
 may refrain from using them because of the wickedness of those 
 with whom we must deal in order to get them. If, by our 
 trafficking with wicked men, we encourage and support them in 
 wrong-doing, we had better avoid it. 
 
 At length, after honestly endeavouring to maintain my tes- 
 timony silently against the injustice, cruelty, and oppression 
 connected with and consequent on the slave trade, for a con- 
 siderable number of years — I was informed that this trade was 
 abolislied by the British Parliament, and also by the Congress 
 of the United States, in the year 1808. This information was 
 joyful to me on account of the termination of the wrongs and 
 
Chap. II.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 39 
 
 suiferings of the poor Africans, in being torn from their native 
 country, which, as I supposed, would immediately cease in con- 
 sequence of the abolition of the slave trade. 
 
 Some time after this event it occurred to my mind that the 
 object of my testimony of abstinence was now accomplished. 
 The habit of not using sugar, &c. had become so fixed that my 
 appetite had little or no influence in meditating a change. But 
 as the ground on which my testimony stood was removed, I had 
 nothing left to support it, unless slavery itself should seem to 
 require it. This, however, did not appear to be required of me 
 as a religious duty. The Avay then appeared open to return to 
 the moderate and temperate use of '<■ whatever is sold in the 
 shambles, (or stores,) asking no questions for conscience' sake." 
 But now the query arose in my mind, for what purpose or for 
 what good end had I been so many years faithfully and silently 
 bearing this testimony ? I could not suppose that it had any 
 influence whatever to hasten the abolition of the slave trade, 
 nor that any the less suff"ering had been endured by a single 
 victim of that trade. As this inquiry pervaded my mind, it 
 was satisfactorily answered by the voice of Divine truth, in- 
 wardly manifested. By this was I shown, that even though no 
 good had been done to any other, to my own mind it had been 
 of incalculable benefit. It had been a school of discipline to 
 me — a discipline that led to obedience to the light of truth on 
 many other subjects to which my attention had been directed, 
 and to which it might yet be called. This satisfied me, and I 
 bowed in reverence to Him who makes all things work together 
 for good to his humble, dedicated children. 
 
 In this retrospect of my juvenile years, and of the means 
 which were blessed to me for my furtherance in the way of 
 life and salvation, I must mention the kind attention of my 
 worthy maternal (or great) aunt, Grace Townsend, wife of 
 John Townsend. She was an excellent friend to me in those 
 my youthful days, literally and spiritually. She, as it were, 
 took me by the hand and led me along in the path of self- 
 denial. She saw that Truth was at work in my heart, and her 
 discerning sympathetic mind was concerned for my preserva- 
 tion and advancement in the narrow way that leads to life. I 
 
40 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1792. 
 
 loved her company, and frequently visited her in her rural 
 and retired habitation. She always received me with affec- 
 tion and kindness. Plainness and Christian simplicity were 
 conspicuous in her carriage and deportment, in her domestic 
 arrangements, and in her free, open, affable manners and con- 
 versation ; and her example throughout was marked with 
 meekness and humility. She frequently entertained me with 
 the perusal of essays on religious subjects of her own compo- 
 sition, mostly poetical; and as a means of consolation and 
 encouragement to my often-tried mind, she lent me William 
 Penn's affectionate " Epistle of Tender Caution and Advice to 
 all such as are sensible of their Day of Visitation." This 
 epistle was peculiarly adapted to the state of my mind. I 
 read it over and over, with much instruction, edification and 
 comfort, and afterward procured a copy for myself, I recom- 
 mend this excellent epistle to such visited minds as are seek- 
 ing after a fuller acquaintance with the operations of the 
 blessed truth in themselves. I believe it might be a blessing 
 to many of the youth, if it were much more extensively circu- 
 lated and read by them. 
 
 During the spring of the year 1792, the weather was very 
 dry for some time, and vegetation much retarded for want of 
 moisture. The circumstance affected my mind with many 
 serious considerations on our dependent state, and the need 
 of greater humility and gratitude for the blessings of Heaven 
 conferred on us. On the 2d of sixth month, however, there 
 was a heavy shower of rain, accompanied with thunder and 
 lightning. This was cause of grateful acknowledgment to 
 Him who "sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust." 
 With lively feelings of gratitude and love to our supreme 
 Benefactor for this and other blessings, I WTote as follows : — 
 
 "Under humbling considerations of the blessings we 
 receive from our heavenly Father, and the favours conferred 
 on us, my heart is made thankful to Him, the supreme Author 
 of all good, who sendeth down showers of blessings upon the 
 inhabitants of this land, both inwardly and outwardly. He 
 has this day given us a shower of rain, attended with light- 
 ning and thunder, by which the parched earth is greatly 
 refreshed. Oh! may we be humbled under a sense of his 
 
Chap. II.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 41 
 
 goodness and kindness to us. Blessed be his name for his 
 condescending mercy in thus pouring out his favours upon 
 the land, to water the earth and to cause the corn and grass 
 to grow. 
 
 " Lord, thou art merciful and kind to us, thy poor help- 
 less creatures. Teach us, Lord, to make a right use of the 
 blessings and favours which thou in tender compassion art 
 pleased to bestow upon us. Lead us in the paths of humility 
 and guide us by thy truth, that so we may answer the end 
 of our creation, and return acceptable worship and gratitude 
 to thee for all thy goodness and mercies toward us." 
 
 As I gained experience in the things of God, my heart ex- 
 panded in love, and my mind became increasingly impressed 
 with religious concern for the welfare and salvation of my 
 fellow-probationers. Although I laboured under great disad- 
 vantages for want of ability to write my thoughts on paper 
 with ease and clearness, yet, under the constrainings of good- 
 will and pure love, I wrote some essays and several letters to 
 a few young persons of my acquaintance. 
 
 In the latter end of the 7th month, 1792, in a letter to four 
 young Friends on the subject of attending week-day meetings, 
 I find these expressions : — « Our worthy predecessors, through 
 the influence of the Spirit of Truth in their hearts, found it 
 expedient often to meet together to worship the Supreme 
 Being ; and they appointed set times to assemble themselves 
 in order to perform that interesting duty. Now, as we make 
 profession to be led and guided by the same Spirit, we ought 
 also to follow its teachings and instructions, which, I believe, 
 would lead us to attend week-day as well as first-day meetings 
 for Avorship; and when met together, we should feel a right 
 travail of mind, that we might worship the Father in spirit 
 and in truth. In tender love I desire you to consider this 
 subject, and by attending to the gift of grace within your- 
 selves, see whether it is not your duty to attend meetings in 
 the middle of the week. It would indeed be pleasant to see 
 you more diligent and circumspect, for it is cause of sorrow 
 that so few young friends come to our week-day meetings in 
 
42 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1792. 
 
 general ; and also to behold so many led astray -with airy 
 imaginations, dressing and adorning themselves with gay 
 clothing, and folloAving the vain fashions of the world." 
 
 The practice of some Friends' children learning ballads 
 and songs by rote, and sometimes indulging in singing, and 
 vain conversation and amusements, very much affected my 
 mind. At length I wrote an essay on these subjects, and ad- 
 dressed to some of these vain young persons ; another short 
 essay I wrote, on the shortness and uncertainty of time ; and 
 a third, on conversation ; some attempts were also made at 
 poetic composition. But though these and a number of let- 
 ters to my young friends, of which I kept copies, manifest 
 my youthful religious concern and desires for the good of 
 others, yet they do not appear proper to insert in this narra- 
 tive or journal of my life. 
 
 During the five years which Christopher Smith taught 
 Friends' school at Byberry, I had a very limited opportunity 
 of making advancement in literary knowledge, even if the 
 teacher's qualifications had been adequate. I have before 
 stated that the winter season was the only time I had to go 
 to school, and sometimes, only a few weeks even then. C. 
 Smith was succeeded by Watson Atkinson in 1789 ; with this 
 new teacher, I had opportunity of acquiring some knowledge 
 of algebra, and the elements of mathematical science. The 
 whole course of school education in those days, was commonly 
 comprised in spelling, reading, writing and arithmetic, and 
 sometimes, an uncommon genius advanced to mensuration 
 and surveying. Neither grammar, geography, nor even the 
 use of a dictionary was thought necessary in school exercises. 
 
 During the summer, 1792, feeling my deficiency in relation 
 to the communication of my ideas, either verbally or in writ- 
 ing, and being very desirous to experience an advancement in 
 my religious progress, as well as literary improvement, I pro- 
 posed a correspondence by letters, with my intimate friend 
 and cousin, Thomas Townsend. In this proposal I had in 
 view the attainment of both those objects, and it was acceded 
 to by my friend. Several letters passed betAveen us, on reli- 
 gious subjects, to our mutual benefit ; but the objects I had 
 iu view were but very partially attained. 
 
Chap. II.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 43 
 
 A few Aveeks after the commencement of this letter-writ- 
 ing, a proposal was made by some young men of the neigh- 
 bourhood, to form an association for mutual improvement in 
 literature and useful knowledge. A meeting was held on the 
 occasion, to which I went, in order to understand the nature 
 and objects of the association. My desires for literary im- 
 provement induced me to think of joining the company, but 
 I found it needful for me deeply to examine the motives for 
 such a procedure. In a letter to my friend T. T., on this 
 subject, I find these remarks : — "As a selfish spirit — the un- 
 wearied adversary of all good — may lead us astray from the 
 path of true virtue, there is need of great watchfulness and 
 a close attention to the dictates of truth, lest we be deceived 
 in this undertaking. Let us seriously examine ourselves, and 
 see what are our motives for joining this school. If we have 
 desires for self-exaltation, woiddly honour, or ambitious mo- 
 tives in striving to excel each other in eloquent speaking, or 
 high-styled writing, &c. I think it will be a means of leading 
 our minds from the simplicity of the Truth, to a love and pur- 
 suit after the honour and applause of the world. But if, 
 from a real desire of improvement in virtue and in useful 
 learning, and of being mutually helpful to each other in a 
 reformation of conduct and. behaviour, we unite in a work of 
 such importance, I believe it will prosper and prove beneficial 
 to us." 
 
 This proposed school or literary association of young men, 
 consisting-of about a dozen members, was organized, and held 
 at the house of one of the overseers of Byberry meeting about 
 once in two weeks, for several months. As one of the objects 
 was to improve ourselves in composition, a number of essays 
 were produced and read at our meetings. 
 
 I also attempted to write, and produced two or three laboured 
 pieces ; but the association did not yield the advantages of 
 improvement, either literary or religious, that my mind was 
 in pursuit of, and I declined attending it. I wanted some- 
 thing more solid and substantial to feed upon than I found 
 there. 
 
 Among my school exercises under Watson Atkinson, I had 
 acquired some knowledge of the theory of surveying land. 
 
44 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1792. 
 
 As I was considered apt at taking learning, my father had 
 suggested to me the idea of being a doctor. This I suppose 
 he did, as he had so many sons growing up, in order to open 
 the way for my usefulness and the procuring of a livelihood. 
 But I had no mind to study medicine — so that prospect was 
 closed. Through the humbling power of Truth, I had learned 
 to be satisfied with the plain way of hfe, and the ambition for 
 greatness and for worldly gain had no place in my mind. 
 
 In the fall of 1792, my father made another proposal to 
 mc, which was to go to school through the winter, to one John 
 Watts, a practical surveyor and conveyancer, in order that I 
 might become perfect in the art of measuring land and cal- 
 culating surveys. To this proposal I acceded, and went one 
 afternoon to consult with the old surveyor on the subject of 
 becoming a student with him. He lived about five miles off, 
 and I arrived at his school-house just after the close of school. 
 He was busy writing a deed ; when I opened my business he 
 appeared to take little interest in it or me, and threw some 
 discouragements in the way. At length, he proposed my 
 going to a Latin school in that neighbourhood, instead of com- 
 ing to him to learn surveying, and spoke much in favour of 
 learning languages. By this I plainly discovered that he did 
 not want me to become a practical surveyor ; the reason was 
 obvious — it was lest it should diminish his business in that line. 
 So I returned home full of the notion of going to Latin school. 
 
 On opening this proposal to my parents, and consulting 
 with them on the subject, it was at length concluded that if I 
 could get board in a Friend's family in the neighbourhood 
 near the school, I might spend the winter in learning Latin. 
 Board being accordingly procured at James Paul's, a Friend 
 belonging to our meeting, I commenced going to Latin school 
 on the 18th of the 12th month, 1792. My teacher was 
 Samuel Jones, an old Baptist minister, who had about eight 
 or ten students boarding in his house, where the school was 
 kept. Several of these boarders were young men who 
 were preparing for the ministry, and going through the study 
 of what they called divinity ; others were studying Latin 
 and Greek. Our teacher was often absent on business, and 
 what he considered the duties of his office as a pastor of 
 
Chap. II.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 45 
 
 the Baptist society and of a meeting in the neiglibourhood.' 
 Being thus left to study our lessons in his absence — and often 
 ■when at home he was not in his school-room till the hour of 
 reciting our lessons — it furnished such as were so disposed with 
 opportunities for other things than studying. "When thus left 
 to ourselves, I was often annoyed and hindered from my les- 
 sons by some of the Baptist students introducing arguments 
 on doctrinal subjects; such as original sin, total depravity, 
 election and reprobation, the ordinances, &c. As I was the 
 only Quaker (as they called me) of age and stability among 
 the scholars, I had to sustain and explain Friends' principles 
 among them as well as I could. This new sphere of trials 
 led me into much deep thoughtfulness and frequent retire- 
 ment, in order to seek for counsel, wisdom and strength from 
 my heavenly Father, and that I might be preserved in his 
 fear, so as not to bring dishonour on his name and truth, in 
 this my new and exposed situation. 
 
 It is with feelings of gratitude and thankfulness to my 
 heavenly Benefactor that I look back to those days, in which 
 his preserving arm was round about me. I fully believe he 
 heard my prayers, and in the hour of need furnished me with 
 clear views and arguments, to illustrate the simplicity of the 
 gospel and the universality of Divine grace, in opposition to 
 their traditional Calvinistic views. Our discussions were 
 generally conducted with apparent mutual good feeling, and 
 though they often hindered me in the pursuit of my studies, 
 yet I trust the cause of truth did not suffer thereby. 
 
 Hitherto my path in life had been much secluded from per- 
 sonal intercourse with other religious denominations. Now 
 that my lot was cast in a neighbourhood of Baptists and 
 others, and in daily mingling with them, it was cause of un- 
 speakable gratitude to my heavenly Father, that I had pre- 
 viously become settled in the truth of my religious principles. 
 My educational habits and the stability I had acquired during 
 the preceding merciful visitations of Divine light and love, 
 seemed like a hedge or safeguard round about me, and my 
 mind was not jostled or unsettled by the change. 
 
 The place of my boarding was full four miles from Byberry 
 meeting, yet I went on foot to our week-day meetings very 
 
46 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1793. 
 
 steadily, when the walking and weather at all admitted. 
 Having my washing and first-day diet at home, I returned 
 every seventh-day evening, and back to school on second-day 
 mornings. These walks were favourable both to my Latin 
 studies and to my religious improvement, as I generally went 
 alone. 
 
 In the family where I boarded were several aged and infirm 
 people, who could not get out to religious meetings. With 
 these I felt much sympathy in their privation, and through 
 the extendings of the heavenly Father's love in my heart I 
 ventured to propose to the heads of the family, to have an 
 opportunity of religious retirement for all the famil}^, in the 
 evening of the 14th of the 2d month, 1793, This, though a 
 great trial to me as a schoolboy and a boarder to propose, was 
 yet readily granted, and we all sat down together in silence. 
 Whatever might have been the salutary effect on others, to 
 me it was a comfortable and satisfactory season, and I felt 
 peace in the dedication to this duty. A few days after, as I 
 was returning home, walking along the public road, I was 
 deeply affected with sorrow in reflecting on the vanities of the 
 world, and especially the practice of young people getting 
 into companies to go sleighing for pleasure. 
 
 In the 3d month, I attended the burial of a man who was 
 said to have died from drinking rum. Among my serious 
 reflections on the awful circumstance, this passage of Scrip- 
 ture livingly occurred to my mind: — " Though a sinner do evil 
 an hundred times and his days be prolonged, yet surely I 
 know that it shall be well with them that fear God, which fear 
 before him." 
 
 Toward the latter end of the 4th month, 1793, as I was 
 returning from our week-day meeting, walking along the road 
 toward Bustleton, and cutting a stick which I had in my hand, 
 I heard a kind of hissing or rustling noise ; when lifting up 
 my eyes, I saw two very large black snakes crossing the road 
 before me, at about four or five yards distance. At first I 
 was alarmed and terrified at the sight, and thought of trying 
 to kill them; but as they offered me no harm, I recovered a 
 little from the fright and stood still. I was then led to con- 
 sider that the same Almighty power and goodness which gave 
 
CiiAP. II.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 47 
 
 me life, had likewi.se given them a being. And as he made 
 all things good, and for a wise purpose, I thought that if these 
 animals were of no use in the creation, the Almighty would 
 not have given them existence. I considered that as I had 
 not given them life, nor was I able to give them being, there- 
 fore I ought not to destroy their lives, as they did not molest 
 me. 
 
 I regarded them as being the workmanship of the same 
 Almighty hand that formed me and all mankind, and pro- 
 videth food and sustenance for all his creatures. I looked at 
 them as they pursued their course and ran up among the 
 limbs of a small tree, at some distance from me. I saw that 
 their lives were pleasant to them, and I considered that they 
 had sensations and feelings of pleasure and pain as well as 
 mankind ; and the conviction was felt that for me wantonly to 
 destroy them, or unnecessarily to deprive them of that sweet 
 life which God had given them, would be an act of cruelty, 
 inasmuch as they were innocent and quiet, not appearing to 
 have any design to do me harm. Under these and the like 
 impressions and reflections, I left them resting on the limbs 
 of the tree, and proceeded on my way with great peace of 
 mind. Humble thankfulness filled my heart in that I was 
 favoured to feel tenderness toward the creatures of Grod, of 
 the inferior animal race, particularly such as mankind in this 
 country are generally prejudiced against. 
 
 After walking more than half a mile in this state of mind, 
 another consideration arose : — What if some innocent little 
 children should be passing along under the tree where I left 
 those two black snakes, and they should dart down upon the 
 unsuspecting children and strangle them ? How should I feel 
 upon hearing of any injury done by them, when I might have 
 prevented it by killing them ? Upon this I stopped and again 
 stood still for a time, to consider the subject attentively. As 
 I waited, looking unto the Lord for instruction, the workings 
 of my mind soon centred in a state of calm resignation, and a 
 renewed trust in the care of Divine Providence, which is over 
 all his works, so that not a sparrow falls to the ground with- 
 out his notice. After I arrived at my lodgings, I made a 
 memorandum of the preceding circumstance and the reflec- 
 
48 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1793. 
 
 tions that attended my mind; and I do not remember ever 
 taking the life of a snake since that period, because I never 
 had occasion in defence of my safety from the attack of any 
 that were of a venomous character. Many an innocent wasp 
 and spider have also been suffered to enjoy the life which God 
 had given them, by gently turning them out doors in the 
 open air, where the world is wide enough to allow room for 
 us all. 
 
 Having become much interested in my studies, and my 
 younger brothers being able to carry on the farming business 
 at home during the spring, I was permitted to continue at 
 Latin school and boarding at James Paul's till the 11th of 
 6th month, 1793, when I returned home to assist on the farm. 
 During the time I was thus engaged at school, my religious 
 improvement' was not neglected. The daily duties which I 
 have before mentioned were attended to, and I often had sea- 
 sons of silent retirement alone, to wait upon God, during the 
 intervals of school-hours. Even amidst the noise of the stu- 
 dents, at times when we were left by our teacher as aforesaid, 
 I have been favoured to feel the comfort of the Divine pre- 
 sence, as I have inwardly waited for the renewal of my 
 strength, by drawing near in spirit to my heavenly Care- 
 taker and Preserver. The longer I was at school, the more 
 I found the attention and kindness of the old Baptist parson 
 and his family to increase toward me; and I found no diffi- 
 culty on account of my being of a different religious denomi- 
 nation, or leaving school to attend Aveek-day meetings. My 
 respect and esteem for my teacher also increased, on discover- 
 ing him to be a mild and liberal-minded man. Whatever 
 might be the creed or doctrinal opinions of the Baptist so- 
 ciety, Samuel Jones was far from being a narrow-minded, 
 bigoted Calvinist. 
 
 With some of the elder and more serious students, as we 
 became better acquainted, I discovered a willingness to read 
 some of Friends' writings on doctrinal subjects. Of these 
 I had yet very few of my own, but such as I had I freely lent 
 them ; and in return, they wanted me to read Whitfield's ser- 
 mons and some other Calvinistic productions. This I did — 
 but they produced no other effect on my mind than a fuller 
 
Chap. II.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 49 
 
 conviction of the absurdity of those notions. Through all 
 our friendly discussion of religious topics and doctrinal opi- 
 nions, my mind became more and more settled in the clear 
 and simple principles of Truth as professed by Friends. 
 
 As I look back at those days and contemplate the simplicity 
 of my manners and appearance, I see renewed cause of grati- 
 tude to my God for the blessings of a guarded education in 
 my earlier days. The principles and habits acquired under 
 parental care and counsel, had become settled by the convic- 
 tions of Truth in my own mind, and were of great use to me 
 in this more exposed situation. I have also reason to think 
 that my steady and uniform example of " plainness of speech, 
 behaviour and apparel," tended to procure the regard of my 
 schoolmates and others with whom I became acquainted, and 
 I do not remember ever feeling ashamed to use the plain lan- 
 guage to all with whom I had converse. 
 
 Having continued at home nearly two months assisting in 
 getting in the hay and harvest, I was permitted to return to 
 my studies ; where I was welcomed by my master Jones and 
 his pupils, as well as the family where I boarded. Through 
 diligent application, my progress was considered rapid in ac- 
 quiring a knowledge of the elements of the Latin language, 
 and the study opened to my view a wider range of subjects 
 for contemplation, as well as a more copious acquaintance 
 with the structure of language. My studies, however, did not 
 hinder me from a steady attendance of our religious meetings. 
 I also attended Abington Quarterly and youth's meetings, and 
 our monthly meetings as they came in course. My corres- 
 pondence with several of my intimate friends was also main- 
 tained, and the way seemed open for advancing in literary and 
 religious improvement. But the rumours of a pestilential fever 
 prevailing in Philadelphia, in the early part of the 8th month, 
 1793, spread terror and alarm through the country ; so that 
 by the 11th of the month Samuel Jones concluded to dismiss 
 his school, and the students generally went home. 
 
 During the awful season of the yellow fever, though four- 
 teen miles from the city, we frequently heard of the dreadful 
 mortality. It was a solemn season, calculated to awaken seri- 
 ous thoughts and reflections on the uncertainty of time, and 
 4 
 
50 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1794. 
 
 the necessity of being in a state of preparation for the final 
 hour. 
 
 I stayed at home and worked on the farm till the beginning 
 of the 11th month, when the fever had so far subsided that 
 the Latin school was again opened, and I returned to my 
 studies as heretofore ; at which I continued till the latter end 
 of the 2d month, 1794, and then returned to my paternal 
 home. 
 
 On a retrospect of the time spent in the study of Latin and 
 Greek, I could not estimate a knowledge of those dead lan- 
 guages very highly, because I saw no probability of much 
 practical usefulness in their application, unless in what are 
 called the learned professions of law and medicine, and these 
 I had no mind to pursue. As to the most important object 
 of living — the improvement of my mind — I could not per- 
 ceive that I had sustained any loss. It was evident to me, 
 that a gracious Providence had been watching over me for 
 good, and had preserved me in much innocence and integrity 
 while pursuing these studies. In the consideration of new 
 subjects, and amidst trials of a different character from what 
 I had previously met with, my capacity of understanding had 
 been enlarged. But though the value of Latin and a little 
 Greek did not appear equal to the value of the time devoted 
 to their acquisition, yet I found another important advantage 
 resulting to myself. In the course of this narrative I have 
 several times adverted to the great difficulty I laboured under, 
 for want of a facility in writing and communicating my ideas, 
 as well as understanding the English language in the defi- 
 nition and use of words. The study of Latin, I found, had 
 greatly obviated this defect. Having previously no know- 
 ledge of English grammar, I could now readily apply the 
 principles of the Latin to the English language. The roots 
 and derivations of many English words could now be traced 
 to the Latin and Greek, and thus a more copious fund of ex- 
 pression was furnished to aid me both in understanding writ- 
 ten and printed language, and also in using my native tongue. 
 This in a considerable degree supplied the lack of previous 
 school education of which I have complained. I was also 
 enabled to teach several pupils the elements of Latin gram- 
 
Chap. II.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 51 
 
 mar, after I commenced teaching school. But I would not 
 recommend that much of the time of youth should be em- 
 ployed in learning these dead languages. 
 
 About the time of my returning home, Watson Atkinson 
 resigned the school at Byberry, and I -was applied to by the 
 school committee to take his place. By the encouragement 
 and with the consent of my parents I accepted the invitation, 
 and on the 14th of the 4th month, 1794, I entered upon the 
 important business of teaching school at my native place, By- 
 berry, about half a mile from my father's house, where I con- 
 tinued to reside. Thirty-eight children attended the first day, 
 and before a week had elapsed the number increased to about 
 fifty. To a youth of twenty years of age, and inexperienced 
 as I was, so large a number of pupils, especially at first, was 
 too many, and I was oppressed with the arduousness of the 
 business. Many unforeseen difficulties and unexpected trials 
 occurred, occasioning renewed engagements of mind to seek 
 for Divine counsel, wisdom and strength from day to day. I 
 felt the necessity of watchfulness over my words and conduct, 
 and the importance of setting a good example, and in all 
 things of walking circumspectly before so large a number of 
 children. My anxiety for their improvement, and for the pre- 
 servation of order among them, both in school and out, was 
 such, that it occupied my thoughts almost continually, day 
 and night, for some time. But by degrees, as I gained expe- 
 rience, I became settled in mind and so accustomed to the 
 care and toil, that it became a pleasant employment in the 
 affection I felt toward the children and in the consciousness 
 of being in the way of my duty. I also felt that I had abun- 
 dant cause to acknowledge the kindness and condescending 
 goodness of my heavenly Father, and was sensible of the 
 sympathy and care of my friends. 
 
 About two weeks after I began to keep school, I made this 
 memorandum: — "I am now surrounded with a large family of 
 small children, and have occasion daily to seek for help and 
 strength from the Fountain of goodness, and for wisdom to di- 
 rect my steps aright in this important trust, which I think I 
 have not undertaken from motives of self-interest, but from a 
 sense of duty and a desire to be useful in the neighbourhood." 
 
52 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1794. 
 
 My employment in teaching school placed me in a very dif- 
 ferent situation from that "which I occupied in my younger 
 days as a ploughboy. Then, I was much alone and had little 
 interruption, when inclined to serious thoughts and medita- 
 tions on heavenly things. Now, surrounded by a large number 
 of children, who during school-hours required my unremitting 
 attention and care, I found frequent occasions of cultivating 
 and exercising that excellent Christian virtue, patience. I 
 also found it to be my duty to be with and among them, during 
 the interval of school-hours called noon-time, in order to have 
 a watchful care over them out of school as well as when en- 
 gaged at their studies. These noon-time intervals also fur- 
 nished opportunities of inward, quiet retirement, and seasons 
 of waiting upon God for the renewal of my spiritual strength, 
 and precious times of Divine communion were often vouch- 
 safed to me. My love to the children and deep interest in 
 their welfare was also increased. I likewise found it profit- 
 able to myself and the scholars to observe a solemn, silent 
 pause of a few minutes at the close of each school-session, 
 both at noon and in the evening before dismissing them — and 
 this was frequently observed when they were called in to com- 
 mence the afternoon school. These silent pauses furnished 
 opportunities not only of acquiring habits of order, but of 
 imparting counsel and advice or caution to the pupils, and 
 sometimes of reading a short portion of the Scriptures or 
 other lesson of instruction, adapted to their capacities of un- 
 derstanding. 
 
 It would be well for teachers and children if this practice 
 of silence, or of frequently observing silent, solemn pauses, at 
 proper times, were more generally adopted in schools. It is a 
 wholesome, salutary discipline to the activity of little children 
 and youth, and prepares their minds or affords them opportu- 
 nities for profitable reflections, and for the Divine principle of 
 Truth to operate in their tender minds, which may be of last- 
 ing advantage to them. 
 
 Another means of religious usefulness both to myself and 
 and the children, was the opportunity of regularly attending 
 our fourth-day meetings, and also on occasions of funerals in 
 our burying-ground during school-hours. To these the chil- 
 
Chap. III.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 53 
 
 dren were taken, and a watcliful care over them exercised to 
 see that they behaved with sobriety and order becoming the 
 occasions. 
 
 Although I knew not that the practice of making such si- 
 lent pauses had been introduced into any other scliools, I 
 found a peaceful satisfaction in thus adopting it, and had evi- 
 dences of its being owned by the heavenly Shepherd and 
 Friend of little children. 
 
 CHAPTER III. 
 
 My opening manhood was exposed to new trials from various 
 quarters. In meeting these I had fresh occasions of recurring 
 to my safe guide, the dictates of the Spirit of Truth, the impres- 
 sions of which I had become somewhat acquainted with. My 
 father from early life had been accustomed to the exercise of his 
 civil right of voting at elections for officers in some of the de- 
 partments of government. Soon after I was of age to carry in 
 a vote, an occasion of much excitement prevailed in the com- 
 munity, in the election of governor of the State. It was said 
 everybody must turn out, for the country would be ruined if 
 the opposite candidate should be elected. Friends of Phila- 
 delphia were reported to be full of zeal on the subject, and it 
 was said Nicholas Wain, James Pemberton and all were going 
 to turn out. Party politics ran high. So with all these ex- 
 citements and my father's encouragement, I went to the elec- 
 tion and voted for the candidate that I was told was the right 
 one. But I knew nothing about it ; and though I was de- 
 sirous that the country should not go to ruin, yet there was 
 something in the spirit of politics that did not seem clear to 
 my mind ; but I endeavoured to reconcile it by thinking that 
 my father and others did understand it. 
 
 But with all our exertions to prevent it, the bad candidate 
 (as they called him) got the office of governor, and I looked 
 for the political prediction to be fulfilled in the ruin of the 
 country. This however did not come to pass. So I passed 
 
54 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1794. 
 
 along until another 'great excitement prevailed about electing 
 a senator. I was again prevailed on by the same kind of ar- 
 guments and examples, and went to election a second time ; 
 but felt more dissatisfied in my own mind than before, as con- 
 sidering myself but a mere tool for others to work with for 
 party purposes. 
 
 Again the period for electing a new governor came round, 
 and the political party strife was as great as before — only 
 that now we were urged to go and vote for the very man that 
 we had tried to keep out before ; but now, he must be kept in 
 the office, or the ruin of the country would follow. I remarked 
 this glaring inconsistency, as it appeared to me, but was told 
 that he had turned out much better than they expected. I 
 however did not feel easy in my mind, and declined going 
 to the election, and have never been since. 
 
 I saw and felt that the spirit of political strife was not a 
 Christian spirit ; and however desirable it may be to have a 
 good civil government, I saw that Friends could have nothing 
 to do with the strife of politics, if they kept their places in 
 the Truth as the followers of him who declared that his king- 
 dom was not of this world. I could easily perceive the rest- 
 less, unquiet and anxious state of a zealous politician. I 
 found that the calmness and quietude of mind, favourable to 
 religious growth and Divine enjoyment, were easily inter- 
 rupted by the strife and even the spirit of political party. I 
 saw also that the mind of a warm politician was exposed to 
 listen to, and be active in talebearing, detraction and slander. 
 
 The example of Jesus was opposed to the policies of this 
 world ; and to me it appeared that his consistent followers 
 could not have a life in the politics of a government that was 
 upheld by the sword, that required oaths, and military opera- 
 tions and war in its support. Under these considerations and 
 views I found it safest and right for me to avoid the spirit of 
 politics, and not mingle in the contests of party strife so often 
 connected with elections. To me it appeared to be a religious 
 duty to live peaceably, honestly and industriously under what- 
 ever party or kind of government was set up, and however ad- 
 ministered. I also believed that in so fulfilling my duties as 
 an upright citizen of the community, I should do more to- 
 
Chap. III.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 55 
 
 ward the support of a good civil government, than I could 
 possibly do by becoming a zealous politician. Here I saw 
 that my right of voting in common with others, as a civil pri- 
 vilege, must be relinquished or must yield to my duties as a 
 Christian, or subject of that government or kingdom which is 
 spiritual, in which the lamb-like nature rules, and in which 
 strife, contention and animosity can never come. 
 
 About the beginning of the year 1795, in company with 
 two other young men, I agreed to take a weekly newspaper 
 published in Philadelphia by Hall & Sellers. This was 
 done in order to gain information of what was going on in 
 the world ; in which I anticipated some satisfaction, as a 
 means of adding to my limited knowledge of men and things. 
 
 It may be perceived by my preceding narrative, that my 
 mind had been arrested by the power of truth, and a care 
 had been induced to watch the operations of my thoughts, to 
 examine the motives of action, and bring subjects to the 
 standard of rectitude, as thus raised by the light of truth in 
 my soul. This newspaper reading now furnished a new theme 
 for my observations on its effects, as related to my own hap- 
 piness and peace. And although, for a while, there seemed a 
 relish for the kind of mental food thus presented to my appe- 
 tite for knowledge, yet I became disappointed; because I 
 found that as my thirst for a knowledge of the outward world 
 and its affairs was indulged, my relish for Divine things, and 
 my attention to the inward world of my own mind diminished. 
 I also observed that my newspaper reading did not afford that 
 solid satisfaction and peace which I had heretofore learned to 
 prize as my best treasure. I however continued to take the 
 paper for one year. But the kind of reading it contained 
 (though considered of the better kind, and not of a party po- 
 litical character) becoming more and more flat and insipid to 
 my mental taste, at the close of the year I discontinued taking 
 it, and found peace in so declining to gain a kind of know- 
 ledge that I had no need of at that time. 
 
 In a review of this occurrence, I have since often had cause 
 
56 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1794. 
 
 of grateful acknowledgment to the hand of Divinfe goodness, 
 for thus leading me about and instructing me in the selection 
 of intellectual food, as well as enabling me to reject that 
 which tended not to my spiritual health, however approved or 
 applauded by the wisdom of this world. 
 
 It was the prayer of Jesus — and it is the prayer of every 
 Christian mind — not to be taken out of the world, but to be 
 preserved from the evils that are in the world. Now, that 
 which occupies the attention of the mind when it dwells with 
 satisfaction on any subject may be said to be its food. If this 
 be the news of the day — the marvellous accounts of passing 
 events — the works of fiction — the battles of warriors — the 
 conquests of armies, &c., and the mind acquires an appetite 
 and relish for this kind of food, the public newspapers will be 
 resorted to in order to gratify this appetite ; and in this there 
 will be an evil, whenever it lessens or destroys the relish for 
 more serious, solid and profitable reading and reflection. 
 
 This evil I found by experience was closely connected with 
 the taking of a public newspaper ; and as my mind had learned 
 to seek for and relish Divine meditations, I was instructed 
 not only to desire preservation from the evils of the world, 
 but to understand that when I prayed not to be led into 
 temptation, I should not go into or expose myself to tempta- 
 tion, by hearing or reading and telling news. Hence it ap- 
 peared best and safest for me to decline taking the newspaper 
 — and a peaceful calm was the result of this act of obedience. 
 
 Some of these publications may be of use to men of busi- 
 ness, in mercantile transactions and some other situations; 
 but the excess of this kind of reading is an evil that greatly 
 abounds in the world at this day. It is insinuating ; and the 
 love of novelty and of knowing what is going on in the world 
 of matter, may imperceptibly gain an undue ascendency in 
 well-disposed minds, so as to prevent in great measure their 
 attention to what is or ought to be going on in the world of 
 their own minds — unless the watch is carefully maintained. 
 
 The habit of living upon the kind of food obtained through 
 the reading of the common newspapers, and gratifying the 
 increasing appetite for more news, is therefore a dangerous 
 habit to the immortal mind of man ; and the indulgence of it 
 
Chap. III.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 5f 
 
 needs the restraining power of truth to regulate and govern it ; 
 since, for all our actions and the manner of spending our pre- 
 cious time, we shall have to render account to our Judge. 
 
 Friends profess to have a testimony of truth against the 
 reading of pernicious hooks and publications ; and a query is 
 annually rehearsed, whether they are careful to restrain their 
 children and those under their care from reading pernicious 
 books. But, when the windows, or centre-tables or bookcases 
 of Friends are strewed with newspapers, as a species of com- 
 mon reading for all the family, and when these papers carry 
 on their first page a novel, a tale of fiction, or sentimental 
 story — how is this testimony against pernicious books sup- 
 ported? How are the innocent minds of children guarded 
 and restrained from imbibing the falsehoods, the frivolity, the 
 contaminations of these idle tales ? Alas ! for the exposure 
 to the evils of newspaper reading. And these evil influences 
 are many more than I have enumerated. ye parents and 
 delegated shepherds, watch over the lambs committed to your 
 guardian care, and keep them as much as possible from the 
 evils that are in the world, and remove temptations out of 
 their way. 
 
 In the fall of the year 1795, under a concern for the benefit 
 and improvement in literature of a number of young men and 
 boys, I opened an evening-school for their accommodation 
 and advancement in the useful branches of school-learning. 
 
 Improvement of myself and others had now become my 
 motto or watchword, and I felt a willingness to be useful in 
 the neighbourhood, in whatever way I could promote the 
 benefit of others. 
 
 Hence also, a field of labour was opened before me in rela- 
 tion to the business and order of the school. I became dis- 
 satisfied with the customary use of the rod in governing the 
 children, and at length abandoned that mode of corporal 
 punishment, substituting instead thereof, private labour to con- 
 vince their judgments, and mild persuasive language ad- 
 dressed to their understanding and feelings. Offenders were 
 
58 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [179G. 
 
 for this purpose sometimes debarred from mingling in play 
 with others at noon-times. The effect of this change was 
 great on many of the children, as well as producing peace and 
 satisfaction to my own mind. 
 
 The scholars were regularly taken to our week-day meet- 
 ings, and a watchful care extended over them. On occasions 
 of funerals, they were also taken into the grave-yard, and 
 witnessed the solemnity of feeling that often attended at such 
 times. They were instructed to observe silence, and to stand 
 near me; and on our return into the school-room, they took 
 their seats and a solemn pause ensued, which was sometimes 
 used in giving them counsel suited to the occasion. Some of 
 these seasons, I trust, have been long remembered to profit. 
 
 Fifth month 25th, 1796. — Preparative meeting — at which 
 we were favoured with the company and gospel labours of 
 Hannah Reeve. She encouraged parents to endeavour to 
 form the minds and manners of the rising youth on the prin- 
 ciples of virtue and truth; and she enlarged on the advan- 
 tages of accustoming children to attend our religious meet- 
 ings, as also the duty of instructing them in the frequent 
 reading of the Holy Scriptures. 
 
 It is with me to record some account of my dear, aged 
 grandmother, Ann Hampton, who departed this life in the 
 1st month last. She came from Wrightstown, Bucks county, 
 to reside in our family, in the year 1792. She was then able 
 to attend meetings, and her appearances in the ministry were 
 sound, baptizing and edifying, though not very frequent. 
 Her company and conversation were often pleasant and 
 instructive ; and the notice she took of me was very grateful 
 and encouraging, as I was then in a serious, thoughtful state 
 of mind. 
 
 Although disease and bodily infirmities were increasing 
 upon her, she continued her exertions to attend religious 
 meetings as long as she was able. She often set me to find- 
 ing passages of Scripture for her, as we had no Concordance, 
 nor any knowledge of such a book. One day, after having 
 been at meeting, she asked me whether there was such a text 
 as this — "I had fainted, unless I had believed." After 
 searching the Scriptures diligently, I at length found it and 
 
Chap. III.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 59 
 
 read it to her — having reason to believe it alluded to a state 
 she had felt in the meeting, and that this testimony of the 
 Psalmist was adapted to her own mind. 
 
 Many other incidents of similar character might be noted, 
 which to me were of great use and benefit in those days, as I 
 thereby became more and more convei'sant with the Scriptures 
 and interested in religious subjects. I was also frequently 
 employed in reading to my grandmother. Her last sickness 
 was lingering and painful, but was endured with much pa- 
 tience and resignation. At one time, when under much suf- 
 fering, she exclaimed, " Oh, the severe pain that I feel ! but 
 if it will hasten this poor tabernacle one step toward the 
 grave, what matters it, if I can be preserved in patience until 
 the desired end come, when the soul may be at rest in the 
 enclosure of that quiet habitation, where there will be no 
 more saying, I am sick." During her illness, as well as 
 through the course of her life, she manifested much solicitude 
 that her children and their offspring should be faithful in ful- 
 filling their duties according to Divine requirings. After a 
 season in which she appeared to have been engaged in com- 
 memorating the Lord's goodness and mercies toward her, 
 she broke out in the ecstatic language of the apostle — "0 
 death, where is thy sting? grave, where is thy victory?" 
 Then said, "Where there is no fear there is no sting." She 
 afterward said, "I have given up the world and all that is 
 in it, and am fully resigned to leave it." 
 
 I have before noted among the means resorted to for pro- 
 moting my own improvement, both literary and religious, that 
 of a correspondence by letters with several of my acquaint- 
 ance and young friends. This was continued with practical 
 utility to myself; and I began to acquire a greater facility at 
 epistolary composition, and also in writing essays on various 
 subjects. I also became increasingly interested in the con- 
 cerns of society, and occasionally believed myself called to 
 speak to the business of our monthly and preparative 
 meetings. 
 
 In the ninth month, in company with several other young 
 
60 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1797. 
 
 men, I set out to go to Pliiladelphia, in order to attend the 
 Yearly Meeting. When a few miles on the jom'ney, I was 
 thrown from my horse, and very narrowly, or rather provi- 
 dentially, escaped a sudden death — the horse striking my 
 forehead with his heels, so as just to graze the skin and 
 knock my hat off: — a merciful preservation, that occupied my 
 mind in serious thoughtfulness on the uncertainty of time, and 
 the necessity of endeavouring to be always ready for our final 
 change. I went on, and attended the Yearly Meeting in all its 
 adjournments. It was to me a very interesting season, and 
 I trust I gained some instruction and received many profitable 
 impressions. 
 
 In the 10th month, writing to a young man, a distant rela- 
 tive, I find the following views and advices, which I think 
 worth inserting here, if haply they may meet the Divine wit- 
 ness, so as to be useful to others in like circumstances ; being 
 as follows: — "As there are many changes and vicissitudes in 
 this uncertain state of being, I hope thou wilt still choose the 
 path of wisdom, the beginning and course of which is what is 
 called in Scripture 'the fear of the Lord;' and without his 
 grace we cannot make advancement in the work of true reli- 
 gion. It is therefore necessary for us often to retire in 
 silence, to wait upon the Lord and humbly to seek for his 
 help and strength, that so we may be preserved out of the 
 various temptations that surround us. The attendance of our 
 religious meetings, both on first and other days of the week, 
 is also a reasonable service and a duty which I hope thou art 
 concerned diligently to perform. And not only to attend, but 
 also to seek after a right preparation of heart, and renewed 
 qualification to ofier up acceptable worship to the Father of 
 mercies. And may thou, with myself, carefully guard against 
 a worldly spirit in our setting out in the business of this life. 
 May we look to the Lord for counsel and direction, and duly 
 and practically remember that blessed injunction, 'Seek ye 
 first the kingdom of God and the righteousness thereof, and 
 all other necessary things shall be added.' " 
 
 In the summer of 1797, the dysentery prevailed in our 
 neighbourhood, and several children were removed by death; 
 among the rest, an amiable pupil of mine, to whom I was much 
 
Chap. III.] NAERATIYE OF EARLY LIFE. 61 
 
 attached, by reason of her humble, docile and affectionate dis- 
 position. Her name was Sarah Simmons, between seven and 
 eight years of age, eldest daughter of Thomas Simmons. 
 With all the vivacity of infant innocence, she was scrupulously 
 careful to avoid giving offence. Her love of reading, particu- 
 larly her relish for reading the Scriptures and other reli- 
 giously instructive books, continued to the last. In the time 
 of her illness, she often asked for the Bible, and read in it 
 at times Avhile she was able; at other times she asked her 
 mother to read it to her, during which she would lie very 
 quiet and attentive, as though her pains were soothed by 
 hearing the Scriptures read. 
 
 A fcAV hours before her close, she again asked for the Bible. 
 It was brought; and on opening it she looked at it, or tried 
 to look at it, and said she wished she could read. But now, 
 so great was her weakness, and the glassy symptoms of death 
 about closing her sight, that she could no longer discern the 
 words ; she then requested her mother to place the book on 
 her pillow, and thus she breathed her last in a short time, 
 with the Bible by her head, as if intended to express her unity 
 with the sacred truths contained in it. 
 
 In recording this circumstance, with the hope that it may 
 be a means of stirring up the pure mind in parents, and of 
 touching kindred feelings in little children, the question arises, 
 Whence this satisfaction in reading the Scriptures, to so young 
 a child as Sarah Simmons? It does not appear to have been 
 the effect of parental education. It was not the effect of de- 
 lirium or disease; for it was manifest while she enjoyed 
 health, and amidst her childish amusements and innocent 
 pastimes. What then could be its origin, short of the Divine 
 gift of grace operating in her innocent mind, and answering to 
 the same life of goodness, as recorded in the testimonies of 
 the Scriptures. An evidence of the ripeness of her immortal 
 soul to join the spirits of the just of all generations, in the 
 perfection of bliss and happiness in the mansions of rest and 
 peace. 
 
62 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1798. 
 
 It is of vast importance to us, in our passing along through 
 time to a nevei'-ending eternity, frequently to number the 
 privileges and blessings we enjoy. Such considerations tend 
 to expand the mind with feelings of gratitude and love to the 
 bountiful Giver. But, alas ! how often do our deficiencies 
 appear, after some of these blessings have been removed from 
 us and we feel the blank ! 
 
 A living, edifying gospel ministry is a blessing to those 
 who improve and are comforted under it. It is a gracious 
 manifestation of Divine kindness and love to all who are the 
 subjects of its influence ; and our gratitude and love should 
 flow^ to the Divine Author thereof. In our meeting at By- 
 berry, a succession of such ministry had long been merci- 
 fully vouchsafed ; and among those who had laboured faith- 
 fully in the service of the gospel, might be named James 
 Thornton, Ann Hampton, Ruth Walmsley and Peter Yarnal. 
 The last two were removed by death, in the year 1798, within 
 a few months of each other, after which our meetings were 
 often silent. Yet, Hannah Yarnal or Ruth Cadwallader had 
 occasionally a communication to make. But a seed of life 
 had doubtless been watered in many minds, through the bap- 
 tizing ministry and labours of those who had been removed 
 from works to rewards. 
 
 In the year 1798, the yellow fever again appeared in Phila- 
 delphia, and was very mortal at the time of the Yearly Meet- 
 ing in the latter end of the ninth month. A number of Friends, 
 however, assembled at the usual time and place of holding that 
 meeting ; and after the meeting for business was duly opened, 
 a proposal was made and united with to adjourn the meeting 
 until some time in the twelfth month following. But notwith- 
 standing the shortness of the time that country Friends were 
 in town, several of them took the fever and died soon after 
 returning home ; among these were Hannah Lindley, wife of 
 Jacob Lindley, James Emlen, Abraham Gibbons and Warner 
 Mifflin. 
 
 I attended the adjourned Yearly Meeting in the twelfth 
 month, and made some notes of the proceedings. In the after- 
 noon sitting, on fifth-day, the committee on the boarding-school 
 to be opened at West-town, reported that the buildings were 
 
Chap. III.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 63 
 
 nearly completed ; so as to be ready for the admission of 
 children as soon as suitable persons could be obtained to in- 
 struct them and superintend the economy of the house, &c. 
 
 The subject of changing the time of holding the yearly 
 meeting was referred to a committee of sixty men and thirty 
 women Friends, who united in proposing that in future it be 
 opened on the third second-day in the fourth month, which 
 ■was unanimously agreed to. What had before been called 
 the spring meeting of ministers and elders was therefore dis- 
 continued. 
 
 A report was made by a committee who had been to visit 
 the scattered Friends settled in Canada. They found about 
 sixty members in that country ; and the committee was con- 
 tinued to extend further care toward them. 
 
 The next Yearly Meeting was accordingly held in the fourth 
 month, 1799, and the boarding-school was opened at West- 
 town in the fifth month following, under the care of a com- 
 mittee appointed by the Yearly Meeting. 
 
 It seems proper to make a brief memorandum of a very 
 close trial sustained by our family in the year 1799. In the 
 summer of this year my brother Joseph, being apprenticed 
 with a neighbour and working at the carpenter business, came 
 home sick with the dysentery. It spread in the family, so 
 that two of my other brothers were attacked with the same 
 painful and alarming disease. Jason, the youngest of us six 
 brothers, had been weakly from his infancy, so as not to en- 
 dure hardships so well as the others, and therefore was kept 
 more to school. He became one of the victims of this sore 
 disease, which baffled all the administrations of medicine and 
 the most assiduous nursing and maternal care. After suffer- 
 ing for about a week or ten days, nature sank under the press- 
 ure of this afflicting malady, and he departed this life on the 
 16th of the eighth month, 1799, aged about twelve years. 
 
 As the closing moment approached, my mind seemed ab- 
 sorbed in fervent intercessions that the Almighty Father 
 might be pleased to spare him a little longer. But perceiv- 
 ing that his immortal spirit was about to be released from its 
 
64 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1799. 
 
 earthly tenement, and that unerring Wisdom saw meet to cut 
 the tender thread of life, my soul seemed detached as it were 
 from all outward objects, and centred in ardent supplication 
 that the arms of Infinite love and mercy might be opened to 
 receive his immortal spirit into the realms of light and peace, 
 so that I found no time to give vent to fraternal affection in 
 the effusion of tears, until some time after he ceased to 
 breathe ; then, the feelings of nature resumed their dominion 
 and baffled all my fortitude to suppress them. I then felt the 
 bitterness of parting with a dear little brother, and the pain 
 of severing the tender ties of natural affection, insomuch that 
 I could take no satisfaction in any outward objects. Yea, so 
 deeply was my mind immersed into a state of grief, solem- 
 nity and anxiety for a considerable time, that I do not re- 
 member a season when it seemed as if I could more wil- 
 lingly have bid farewell to all the things of time. In this 
 state I could look back and see many defects and omissions 
 in myself, in relation to the fulfilment of my duties toward 
 my dear deceased brother and pupil, now too late to be 
 remedied. 
 
 But through all this trying season my health was merci- 
 fully preserved. My two other brothers recovered, and at 
 length the family was restored to health. A tribute is due to 
 the unremitting assiduity and maternal tenderness of my be- 
 loved mother, whose care and toil, by night and by day, in 
 nursing and attending on her sick children, were blessed to 
 the restoration of two of them ; and when called to resign 
 the third to Him who gave it, she was sustained with calm- 
 ness and meekness, as an evidence of her resignation to the 
 will of Heaven, in thus being deprived of her youngest son. 
 
 Some lessons of deep instruction were sealed upon my mind, 
 during the season of this awful dispensation of affliction, that 
 I hope never to forget. Oh ! what an excellent thing it is, 
 in all our trials and provings, outwardly and inwardly, to 
 have the Almighty Father for our friend and our comforter, 
 on whom we may lean ; and resigning our own wills to his, 
 put our whole trust and confidence in his never-failing care 
 and protection. I ardently desire that the remaining days of 
 my pilgrimage here may be increasingly devoted to his work 
 
Chap. III.] NARRATIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 65 
 
 and service ; so tliat I may be ready to render my account 
 vrith joy and peace whenever the solemn message may be 
 sounded, Steward, give an account of thy stewardship. 
 
 In reviewing the days of my youth, and recurring to many 
 little circumstances and incidents in the history of my life, 
 wherein I can trace the operations and dealings of Almiglity 
 Goodness with my soul, the grateful acknowledgment must 
 still be made, that his mercy and goodness have followed or 
 been present with me all the days of my life. 
 
 I have before noted that his Divine grace very early taught 
 me to avoid cruelty and the wanton infliction of pain on dumb 
 animals. This plant of his own right-hand planting, as it 
 grew in the soil of tender-heartedness and mercy, spread its 
 branches so as to embrace other kindred objects and feelings. 
 Hence, when I became a man and mingled in society, it 
 grieved my heart when I discovered disputes, contention and 
 wrangling among my neighbours. 
 
 I can ascribe it to the movings of the gospel spirit of peace 
 and love, that my interference in numerous cases of this kind 
 proved availing to the settlement of breaches of unity and 
 harmony between neighbours. Hence I more and more loved 
 the blessing of the peacemaker, which I enjoyed in seeing the 
 fruits of reconciliation and the restoration of kind feelings 
 between parties who had unhappily been at variance. 
 
 It is with me to record one case of difference that occurred, 
 in which one of the parties was a member of our meeting and 
 the other not. They were near neighbours — they both had 
 wives, and their children were my scholars. One had bor- 
 rowed a plough of the other, and in consequence of the misun- 
 derstanding he refused to take it home. The owner needed 
 it on his farm — but would not go after it. Charges ran high, 
 each against the other, and their families became involved in 
 unkind feelings. After labouring with them for some time 
 and endeavouring to make peace, but without the desired 
 effect, I borrowed a horse and therewith took the plough to 
 its owner. This point being thus adjusted, I succeeded on 
 other matters gradually, until they could speak to each other, 
 
G6 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1800. 
 
 and in a "while became reconciled, so as to live in peace and in 
 the exercises of kind offices one toward the other, -which con- 
 tinued as long as they remained in the neighbourhood. But 
 ■what added to my satisfaction greatly "was that the seeds of 
 strife and animosity "which had begun to germinate in the 
 minds of the wives and children of these men — thus checked, 
 soon became eradicated ; and they remained kind neighbours 
 ever after. Oh ! may this simple narrative be an encourage- 
 ment to others to seek the right qualification "to go and do 
 like"wise," "when occasions occur that require the aid of the 
 peacemaker. 
 
 Among other services in the neighbourhood, I yfas often 
 engaged in visiting the sick, nursing and sitting up to "watch 
 them during nights. This furnished opportunities of instruc- 
 tion and tended to my improvement, in the exercise of sym- 
 l^athy and tenderness to"ward the afflicted. For in early life 
 I realized the truth of Solomon's assertion, "It is better to 
 go to the house of mourning than of feasting." 
 
 I continued teaching the school at my native place, and 
 found the Xs^aj open for making numerous improvements in 
 the manner of imparting literary instruction to my pupils — 
 and through all and over all, my concern for vs^hat may be 
 called their religious improvement and the preservation of 
 their innocence, found many occasions of imparting lessons 
 of instruction, caution and discipline, that to some of them, I 
 trust, "\\'ill be of lasting benefit. 
 
 If ever this note should meet the eye of a conscientious 
 school-teacher, "who follows the business from a higher motive 
 than pecuniary reward, I would that it might incite to a deep 
 consideration whether this view of the responsibility of their 
 station, in relation to mental culture, does not demand greater 
 attention and care in those intrusted with the important 
 concern. 
 
 On fifth-day, the 3d of seventh month, 1800, 1 set out with 
 Hannah Yarnal, her son and daughter, on a visit to their 
 
Chap. III.] NARR.VTIVE OF EARLY LIFE. 67 
 
 relatives and friends in Chester county; but my principal 
 object -was to see the boarding-school at "VVest-to-wn, that 
 had been in operation about a year. 
 
 In this day's ride, my mind was much inclined to silence ; 
 and after leaving Philadelphia, "we travelled on over hills and 
 valleys, stones and rough roads, until we arrived at James 
 Melone's, about two miles east of West Chester. Here we 
 were kindly received and comfortably accommodated. Next 
 morning, James accompanied us to the boarding-school, about 
 two miles. Here we spent the day viewing the house, schools, 
 &c. Many entertaining and interesting views of the order 
 of the schools, the performances of the pupils, and the general 
 economy of the institution, were presented during the day. 
 But my mind became enlisted in much sympathy toward the 
 superintendent and teachers, in consideration of the arduous- 
 ness of their stations and the weight of responsibility that 
 devolved upon them. Under these feelings, an impression 
 was made on my mind, and gradually enlarged, until it assumed 
 the character of an apprehension of duty, that it would be 
 required of me to devote a portion of my time in this institu- 
 tion. This was to me a new idea, never before thought of; 
 but the impression thus made became so clear that I could not 
 doubt its origin to be from a higher source than my own ima- 
 gination, or any thing formed by my natural inclinations. 
 
 This prospect and concern engrossed so much of the atten- 
 tion of my mind, that I could not so minutely attend to many 
 subjects as I wished and might otherwise have done. But 
 the general order and quietness with which business was con- 
 ducted were grateful to my feelings ; and living desires were 
 raised for the prosperity and advancement of the objects of this 
 institution, and that the blessing of Heaven might rest upon it. 
 
 After visiting a number of the friends and acquaintances 
 of Hannah Yarnal, who resided within a few miles round, I 
 left them a short time and again visited the boarding-school; 
 for there my mind seemed strongl}'" attracted; yet I said no- 
 thing to any one about the impressions of duty, or my pros- 
 pect of engaging as an assistant in the work. After spending 
 a few hours there, I again joined my company and returned 
 home, pondering the subject in my own mind. 
 
68 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1800. 
 
 Eiglith month, 24th. All our probationary trials and exer- 
 cises are doubtless kno-R-n and regarded by our Almighty 
 Father, who will turn them to our profit as we endure them 
 with patience and resignation. For some days past my state 
 of mind has seemed to be shut up, and as it were almost left in 
 darkness. The satisfaction that surrounding objects have 
 afibrded appears to be gone ; and the feeling of a solemn 
 farewell is present in my thoughts while I am ready to ex- 
 claim, " my leanness, my leanness !" But all these mental 
 provings would become light, if I could but enjoy the Divine 
 presence. "My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God." 
 Oh ! when will he appear for my help ? 
 
 Perhaps this stripping season may be dispensed to me in 
 order to wean me from created objects, and fix my afi'ections 
 and attention more deeply on things of eternal consequence. 
 Perhaps it may be in mercy, to draw me off from earthly pui'- 
 suits to a consideration and preparation for my final, solemn 
 change. Or, perhaps, in order to prepare me for some par- 
 ticular service in the Master's vineyard. I do not feel much 
 anxiety about it, only that I may be kept in patience and 
 steadfastness and as the passive clay in the hands of the hea- 
 venly Potter. I desire to resign all into his hands, and my- 
 self into his holy care and keeping, and say " Thy will be 
 done." 
 
 In a solitary evening walk, after reading a portion of Job 
 Scott's excellent journal, I felt my heart drawn to supplicate 
 the Almighty for mercy and forgiveness, and that I might be 
 preserved in patience and resignation until he again appeared 
 for my deliverance. Under this living exercise, my heart was 
 contrited and enlarged, accompanied with a copious effusion of 
 tears, under an awful sight and sense of Divine mercy and 
 compassion renewedly extended to my poor, tribulated soul. 
 His abundant condescension and love melted my spirit in con- 
 trition before him ; and in much abasement and gratitude of 
 soul I offered up myself to his care and protection, disposal 
 and direction. To him I devoted myself and my all, with 
 fervent breathingrs that he would enable me to continue firm 
 in this resolution and dedication to the end of mj days, and 
 that he would graciously keep me through all to his glory and 
 
Chap. IY.] NARRATIVE OF LIFE— DIARY. G9 
 
 my own peace. It was to me a memorable season of Divine 
 favom- after a time of great depression ; and I record it for 
 the encouragement of others in like seasons of proving, to 
 trust in the Lord and Avait patiently for his arising in their 
 souls. 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 A DIART, COMMENTED THE 21ST OF XINTH MOXTU, 1800. 
 
 I HAVE often thought of William Penn's advice to his chil- 
 dren, to "keep a short journal of their time, though a day 
 require but a line ; for many advantages flow from it." Such 
 a diary may embrace many subjects. 
 
 Mine, now about to commence, is to be devoted principally 
 to the state of my own mind ; in order that by frequently 
 looking over my spiritual accounts I may be the better pre- 
 pared for a final settlement, whenever the awful moment of 
 my dissolution may arrive. 
 
 As this solemn period is altogether hid from my view, it 
 becomes me frequently to examine my own heart, and brin^ 
 my deeds and the state of my mind to the light of Christ, 
 that I may thereby discover what there is in me that would 
 hinder my acceptance with my Judge, and through his mercy 
 be enabled to overcome it and have it done away. As the 
 light of Christ manifests what is reprovable or evil, so it also 
 gives strength to the attentive, obedient mind to overcome 
 and have those things removed. This is the work of our 
 redemption. 
 
 Xinth month 21st. — Poor in spirit — a dull meeting — after- 
 noon more stayed and watchful. 
 
 22d. — Mercifully preserved from sliding back, but my dwell- 
 ing was too much in the outward court. 
 
 23d. — Devoted a portion of the morning to silent waiting 
 on God, in which my poverty was more sensibly felt. In the 
 evening, prayed for help and preservation from evil. 
 
 24th. — Again waited awhile in silence — went to meeting — 
 
70 JOURNAL OF JOHN CO.MLY. [1800. 
 
 more fervency of spirit was felt to be necessary. At a neigh- 
 bour's in the evening. Oh ! when shall I be strong enough 
 so to take heed to my ways that I sin not with my tongue, 
 and to keep my mouth at all times as with a bridle ? 
 Lord, let not thy judgments be spared, until my volatile na- 
 ture submit, and a state of continued watchfulness be expe- 
 rienced'. 
 
 2oth. — Tried to draw near the Fountain of Good ; but all 
 seemed shut up till evening, when my mind was more drawn 
 from the world and stayed on God. In this state I felt some 
 comfort, as though the crook of his love was again extended 
 for my help and being gathered. Blessed be his holy name 
 forever. 
 
 2Gth. — A degree of comfort in the morning, but it wore 
 off. Evening, a little more quickened. 
 
 27th. — Through the abundant mercy and condescension of 
 Infinite Goodness, I have been mercifully preserved in a good 
 degree from a worldly spirit, and have felt more stayed and 
 watchful — but not by my own might or power. 
 
 This evening, on sitting down in silence, I was favoured to 
 feel the presence of something Good, and an effusion of love 
 to God and to my fellow-creatures. On a retrospect of my 
 life, for eight or ten years past, I am ready to think I feel 
 less fervency of spirit now, than at that period. The idea 
 humbled me with desires that I might again witness a deep 
 travail of soul, and a lively feeling after God. 
 
 28th. — A day of favour in the fore-part. In meeting felt 
 some enlargement in desires for the good of my fellow-pro- 
 bationers ; but soon, all seemed to be closed up. For some 
 days past, I have been desirous to experience a dwelling 
 nearer to God, in the true life, spirituality and substance of 
 religion. And, oh ! that he may mercifully vouchsafe of his 
 protecting care and strengthening grace, to enable me to seek 
 and labour after this state with increasing fervency and greater 
 devotedness of soul ! 
 
 John Simpson was favoured in a lively, edifying testimony, 
 wherein he set forth the way in which many eminent instru- 
 ments in the Lord's hand had been prepared for his work and 
 service, lie instanced Moses, showing that he had a sight 
 
CnAP. IV.] NAP^rwVTIVE OF LIFE— DIARY. 71 
 
 and sense of the deliverance of the Israelites by his hand — 
 and mentioned his going to work in his own wisdom ; hut he 
 soon discovered his error and repaired to the mount of God, 
 whereunto we were advised to flee, if at any time we should 
 err either on the right hand or the left; and by a patient 
 abiding there, under the operation of the refiner's fire and 
 fuller's soap, we might, in the Lord's time, become useful in- 
 struments in his work and service. He also expressed his 
 belief, from the feelings attending his mind, that there were 
 some of the younger class then present, who were under the 
 forming hand of preparation for the work of the ministry. 
 
 29th. — Committed nothing that men would deem inconsist- 
 ent — but God looks at the heart. In the evening retirement 
 was mercifully made sensible of my condition, and enabled to 
 repair to the Standard who was near and helped me ; so that 
 for some hours I felt comfortable as if in his gracious keep- 
 ing. Thanks to his name. 
 
 30th. — More fervent exercise and labour after the bread 
 of life that cometh down from heaven, would have afforded 
 more peace of mind in the retrospect of this day. 
 
 Tenth month 1st. — The morning exercise resulted in a 
 solemn calm by meeting-time. Roger Dicks and his com- 
 panion from Delaware county attended the monthly meeting, 
 which was large. Roger appeared in a livingly, edifying tes- 
 timony, during which I felt the heavenly rain to refresh my 
 spirit, and a holy uniting with him in testimony and fervent 
 desires that all present might be benefited thereby, and re- 
 ceive the offers of Divine love renewedly extended through 
 this faithful servant and minister of the gospel. He began 
 with the declaration of the apostle, " The foundation of God 
 standeth sure," and "other foundation can no man lay than 
 is already laid, which is Christ Jesus," who is also called the 
 Rock and " Cornex'-stone, disallowed indeed of men, but cho- 
 sen of God, elect and precious." From which he enlarged 
 on the advantages of building on that sure foundation, so that 
 when storms and afllictions overtake us, (which will assuredly 
 overtake or come upon all mankind at one time or another,) 
 we may experience safety ; even as Jesus described in the 
 parable, " He that heareth these sayings of mine and doeth 
 
72 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1800. 
 
 them, I "will liken him to a wise man who digged deep and 
 built his house upon a rock, and the storms came, and the 
 rains descended, and the winds blew and beat upon that 
 house, and it fell not, because it was founded upon a rock." 
 He then pointed out the very different situation of him who 
 built his house on the sand, without a foundation ; and in a 
 very moving and pathetic manner called upon some present, 
 saying, it was high time for them to double their diligence, 
 and improve the precious moments as they are lengthened 
 out ; for <' silent time is ever on the wing, and whirls round 
 days, weeks, months and years, with a swift and irresistible 
 force, never to return." 
 
 He next pointed out who were the true worshippers, and 
 illustrated the subject of spiritual worship by a quotation 
 from that unparalleled discourse with the woman of Samaria, 
 showino; that neither at Jerusalem nor in the mountain of 
 Samaria, (neither in this, that, nor the other name or profes- 
 sion of religion,) "but the hour cometh, and now is, when the 
 true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in 
 truth; for the Father seeketh such to worship him." Fer- 
 vent were his aspirations and desires that his hearers might 
 be thankful for the abundant favours conferred on them, and 
 he declared that the Almighty was looking for fruits propor- 
 tioned to his numerous benefits conferred on us. His tender 
 solicitude for the youth appeared in his affectionate address 
 to them, and ardent were his desires that they might enlist 
 under the heavenly banner of Christ Jesus, so as not to shrink 
 under whatever trials they might have to pass through; "for," 
 said he, " it is through tribulation that we must inherit the 
 kingdom of Heaven." Those who have already measurably 
 given up to serve the Lord, he encouraged to press forward, 
 assuring them that "the Lord whom ye seek will suddenly 
 come into his temple, and will sit as a refiner and purifier of 
 silver," and will make a man more pure than the golden wedge 
 of Ophir. 
 
 But to those who have their affections too much engrossed 
 with the perishing things of this world, he declared that "it 
 remains to be an eternal truth, that tribulation, anguish and 
 wrath shall be upon every soul of man that doeth evil — to the 
 
Chap. IV.] NARRATIVE OF LIFE— DIARY. 73 
 
 Jew first, and also to the Gentile ; but glory, honour and 
 immortality to every one that doeth good — to the Jew first, 
 and also to the Gentile." To the spiritual Jew he said: — 
 "For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, neither is that 
 circumcision that is outward in the flesh; but he is a Jew 
 that is one inwardly, and circumcision is that of the heart, in 
 the spirit." He delivered many other lively exhortations 
 tending to stir up the pure mind in his hearers, and closed his 
 interesting communication by referring to the many precious 
 promises of encouragement to the faithful, as recorded in the 
 Scriptures ; one of which, he said, had unexpectedly occurred 
 to his mind, which might close the present testimony: — "To 
 him that overcometh, will I give to eat of the tree of life 
 which is in the midst of the Paradise of God." 
 
 In the monthly meeting for business, were several presenta- 
 tions of marriage proposals. An exercise which has been 
 increasing for years was revived in my mind, in relation to 
 making large weddings and provisions of entertainment ; but 
 I did not open my concern to the meeting, through a fear of 
 being too forward in attempting to steady the ark, like Uzzah 
 of old, without right authority. But my prayer was and is 
 that I may be favoured with a clear manifestation of the 
 Divine will, so as not to err in vision or stumble in judg- 
 ment. 
 
 2d. Since yesterday's favoured meeting, my mind con- 
 tinued much retired and inwardly stayed on God, in which 
 the language of the Psalmist occurred with comfort and 
 instruction: — «< I foresaw the Lord always before me; he is 
 on my right hand, that I should not be moved." Thankful 
 for the favour and for the abundant mercies received, my 
 prayer is that I may ever be kept within his holy pavilion 
 from the strife of tongues, and that in all things I may become 
 conformable to the Divine will. 
 
 The prospect of devoting a portion of my time at the West- 
 town Boarding-School, in Chester county, which has been 
 with me for about three months past, continues to accompany 
 my mind, so that few houi's pass over without thinking of it. 
 My natui-e feels reluctant at the thoughts of parting with my 
 relatives and friends, and going to reside with strangers. But 
 
74 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1800. 
 
 wlien I recur to the origin of this concern, in the full belief 
 that it "vras not the work of my own will, my mind centres in 
 a state of calm resignation, greatly desirous of preservation 
 and right direction in this (to mo) momentous movement. 
 
 3d. Much retired in spirit — read the Scriptures and sought 
 after Divine strength — then committing myself to the care 
 and protection of Israel's unslumbering Shepherd, I witnessed 
 him to bo my Preserver through the course of this day. 
 
 4th. Went to Philadelphia, and to see Alexander Wilson, 
 to whom I opened my concern to devote a part of my time at 
 the boarding-school. He said it felt pleasant to him. Being 
 one of the committee, I left it with him to be disposed of as 
 might be thought best. 
 
 As I walked about the city, the ancient philosopher's ex- 
 clamation at the fair, often occurred to my mind: "How 
 many things are here which I do not want !" 
 
 5th. Had a very laborious meeting — fluctuating thoughts, 
 like wave after wave, seemed to overwhelm my poor tossed 
 soul. At length, under John Simpson's ministry, my mind 
 became calm. Next day my mental dwelling seemed too 
 much in the outward court to feel the Kock and abide on the 
 sure foundation. 
 
 7th. Very much in the same state till towards evening, 
 when retiring into silence, I was favoured with some degree 
 of calmness and quiet. 
 
 8th. Fore-part of meeting, comfortable — afternoon, too 
 superficial. Next day, leanness and poverty my portion — 
 neither dew nor rain, nor fields of offerings. Merciful Father, 
 forgive, and again inclose me in thy holy pavilion, that I 
 may dwell in the iuAvard courts of thy house, where I may 
 behold the beauty of the Lord and inquire in his temple. 
 
 9th. Desirous of more stability and humble dependence on 
 my God. Sat in silence — and engaged in seeking for Divine 
 help, when (blessed forever be the name of the Lord) he 
 appeared for my healing, and granted me a state of watchful- 
 ness and inward solemn quiet. Abiding in this state there is 
 safety ; and in order to this, it is necessary often to wait upon 
 God for the renewal of our strength. 
 
 10th. A day of favour, inwardly watchful and quiet. A 
 
Cn.vr. IV.] NARRATIVE OF LIFE— DIARY. 75 
 
 visit made to Stephen Decatur, a sea-captain, by liis request, 
 and was kindly entertained. 
 
 11th. A ride by Avay of Falls and Newtown, to Middle- 
 town. Variety of probations — my feeble endeavours after a 
 renewal of spiritual strength and stability were not in vain. 
 
 12th. Attended Bristol meeting — the state of my mind was 
 like toiling and catching nothing, but was refreshed under the 
 ministry of Samuel Wilson, from Abington. Through Divine 
 favour felt stayed, and spent the evening in retired silence. 
 
 13th. Much the same as yesterday. 
 
 14th. More living engagement to seek after God. Waited 
 in stillness. Engaged in contemplating the disquietude and 
 confusion that pervade Pennsylvania — it being election day — 
 from which I feel most easy to stay away, and have nothing 
 to do with politics — not even to talk about them. 
 
 loth. Wanting in that fervency of spirit Avhich I believe 
 the primitive disciples and our forefathers lived in, when they 
 drank of the waters of life at the Fountain-head, and were 
 made strong in the Lord. Had a trying meeting; after 
 which, in an opportunity with some of my scholars who had 
 misbehaved, through the mercy of my God, I was renewedly 
 strengthened and felt stayed in mind. Oh ! what shall I ren- 
 der unto the Lord for all his benefits toward me ? Make me 
 thine, holy Father ! — Cleanse my heart and make it a de- 
 voted tabernacle for thy Holy Spirit to dwell in, and to be 
 governed by thee in all things ; so that I may serve thee 
 with acceptance, and render unto thee all honour, adoration, 
 glory and praise. 
 
 16th. I feel a hope, through Divine mercy, that I have not 
 offended my heavenly Father during this day. Feel willing 
 to be searched, and desirous of knowing his refining opera- 
 tion, until all my dross is purged away. Divine Goodness has 
 been near, though veiled by a cloud. 
 
 Heard of the death of Henry Comly. 
 
 He had lately become unsettled, and Avanted to travel and 
 see the world. Accordingly, about a month ago, he set out 
 for New York and other places, but soon returned and was 
 taken unwell on the road. He arrived at his father's about a 
 week since, where he was severely held with a nervous fever. 
 
76 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1800. 
 
 until death, awful death, has now closed these earthly scenes, 
 and his immortal soul is summoned to appear before the Al- 
 mighty Judge. All his projects and intentions of gratifying 
 his curiosity by travelling are now at an end — forever done ! 
 A few weeks since, how little did he think of his close being 
 so near! How little did he consider that the solemn hour 
 was swiftly approaching ! But it has come, and he is removed 
 from works to rewards. 
 
 my soul, this is a solemn call on thee to reflect — deeply 
 reflect on thy own state. How is it with thee ? This body 
 now seems in perfect health, through the mercies of thy gra- 
 cious Benefactor, and for which I feel thankful. But soon, 
 very soon, the scene may be changed ! A few days, or even 
 a few hours, may bring me on the bed of sickness or of death. 
 Oh! be watchful — be thoughtful. Thou knowest not how 
 soon all thy earthly hopes and plans and prospects may be 
 cut off. How thin is the partition between time and eter- 
 nity! My heart trembles and my eyes seem dazzled in look- 
 ing at and contemplating the solemn, the momentous scene ! 
 "Well might Moses break forth in that pathetic ejaculation and 
 ardent desire, "Oh! that the people were wise, that they un- 
 derstood this, and that they would consider their latter end!" 
 Oh ! that this may be more and more the fervent engagement 
 of my soul, the remaining fleeting moments of my stay here — 
 that so, through Divine mercy, I may be enabled at the 
 solemn period to give in my account with joy, and to stand 
 undismayed before the throne of my Judge ! 
 
 ITth. Attended the burial of Henry Comh', and had some 
 very solemn and instructive thoughts and feelings in the 
 graveyard. Hannah Yarnal said a few words at the grave. 
 
 After the funeral, to which I took all the scholars, we 
 returned to the school-house and sat in solemn silence. This 
 is our general practice on such occasions, furnishing oppor- 
 tunity for serious reflections, and for imparting counsel and 
 admonition to the dear children, that may incite them to con- 
 sider their own latter end. 
 
 This day and the one following were seasons of watchful 
 circumspection and feeling after the Fountain of all good — 
 Blessed be his name. 
 
Chap. IV.] NARRATIVE OP LIFE— DIARY. 77 
 
 19th. Much exercised on the subject of going to West-to\\'n 
 boarding-school. A poor, dull meeting. The prayer of my 
 soul is, that I may never be suffered to settle down in a state 
 of ease and lukewarmness, but that every thing not right in 
 the Divine sight may be brought to judgment. Oh! that 
 nothing may be covered or hid — that every false rest may be 
 broken up, and my soul thoroughly washed in Jordan, the 
 river of judgment. 
 
 20th. Felt some savour of Divine life through the day. 
 Oh ! that I may increase in a diligent care to keep little and 
 low in mine own eyes, and watchfully attentive to the great 
 Teacher of the meek. It is a necessary care, if we can do 
 nothing for the truth, to do nothing against it. 
 
 21st. On a retrospect for some weeks past, a comfortable 
 hope was felt that I am making some advancement, particu- 
 larly in the feeling of gratitude and solid quietude, when par- 
 taking of the bountiful provision for my bodily support. 
 
 22d. A day of mental unsettlement — till meeting time. 
 Then some renewed favour, in a sense of the necessity of 
 improving the time of silent worship by a diligent introversion 
 of mind, so as to prevent the eye from wandering over the 
 assembly. Said a few words to the business of preparative 
 meeting, and felt peace therein. The slavish fear of man 
 being taken away, my confidence in the never-failing arm of 
 Divine wisdom and power was renewed. Afternoon, while 
 engaged in the business of the school, I felt a holy quietness, 
 as if enclosed within the pavilion of my gracious heavenly Fa- 
 ther's kindness and guardian care. Blessed be his holy name. 
 
 The same precious covering of Spirit continued through the 
 ensuing day. A heavenly favoured season in the evening, 
 wherein the spirit of supplication was furnished on behalf of 
 my dear parents and relatives, and for Friends of this neigh- 
 bourhood. Here I saw clearly that of ourselves we know not 
 what to pray for as we ought ; and that it is the Holy Spirit 
 only that must help us and direct us to pray aright. In this 
 state, oh, how sweet is access to the throne of Grace ! In 
 this state, I seemed as if lifted up above this world and all 
 its glories and pleasures — so that I could look down on its 
 poor nothingness. 
 
78 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1800. 
 
 As I sat silent and inwardly gathered into stillness, a lan- 
 guage saluted my inward ear, with a precious sweetness, on 
 this wise : "Thou hast the dew of thy youth." After sitting 
 quietly for some time, wondering what this heavenly saluta- 
 tion should mean, at length it was opened after this manner : 
 — As the outward dew enlivens, animates, and refreshes the 
 plants and fruits of the earth, so does the heavenly dew the 
 soul of man. The outward dew falls when the air is clear, 
 still, and calm, but is obstructed by clouds or winds ; so the 
 heavenly dew descends upon the humble, quiet mind, even in 
 the night season when the Divine presence seems to be with- 
 drawn ; although it may not be perceived or discovered until 
 the morning, or the arising of the Sun of righteousness with 
 healing on his wings. But if the mind is clouded, or in a 
 tossed state, as with the agitation of tumultuous winds, it 
 feels not nor partakes of the refreshing dews of heaven, that 
 nourish the soul and cause fields of offerings to flourish. It 
 is in calmness, tranquillity, and patient waiting in the night 
 season, (as when the atmosphere is clear and calm,) that the 
 mind is kept clear — so that the stars of the firmament (the 
 examples of the righteous and the evidences of those little 
 twinklings of Divine goodness occasionally felt) may be eyed 
 and kept in view, as the means of encouragement in those 
 night seasons to persevere in watchfulness and patient sta- 
 bility, so that no mists or doubts may arise to dim their light 
 thus reflected, or obstruct the distillings of the dew of Ilcr- 
 mon. Thus the humble mind is often sustained, nourished, 
 and refreshed through those night seasons, though it is often 
 insensible of it, — even as the dew is not seen when falling, nor 
 its salutary effects experienced till morning — so the mind that 
 has the dew of its youth, when the Light again appears, can 
 look back to the night season, and with humble gratitude 
 acknowledge that the Divine arm has been imderneath to sup- 
 port and preserve — even as the patriarch Jacob, when he 
 awoke, said, " Surely the Lord is in this place, and I knew 
 it not." 
 
 Thus also the heavenly dew strengthens, invigorates, and 
 cheers the humble soul, causing the fruits of the Spirit to 
 flourish and grow and to bring forth fields of offerings, as well 
 
Cn.vr. IV ] NARRATIVE OF LIFE— DIARY. 79 
 
 as gratitude and praise to its Author. Hereby we become 
 animated to press forward with holy ardour, as in the vitrour 
 of youth — as in the season of growing from stature to stature 
 — from the state of infancy to that of chiklhood and youth — 
 and at length to that of a young man and a strong man in 
 Christ. " Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God 
 as a little child, shall in no case enter therein." 
 
 It is when we are docile, teachable as a little child, that a 
 growth in the truth is experienced. It is in this state that we 
 have "the dew of our youth;" and oh ! that we may strive to 
 dwell in that quiet, watchful, teachable state, in which its 
 gentle distillings may be known, unobstructed by clouds, or 
 mist, or stormy winds, (earthly passions,) or a dry and barren 
 state of mind. Xow clouds are often raised off the sea, that 
 unstable element, easily agitated by winds, and tides, and 
 storms. Oh ! let us beware of indulging an unstable mind, 
 that is easily disturbed, and tossed as with winds and waves, 
 that raise clouds of darkness which obstruct the light of the 
 sun, and of the moon and stars, as well as prevent the falling 
 of the dew that descends on the mountains of Zion. 
 
 May the deep instruction conveyed to my understanding by 
 this heavenly opening be duly sealed upon my mind, and the 
 praise and glory ascribed to Him alone to whom it is due. 
 
 24th. There is a freedom of conversation which the world 
 calls sociabiUty ; but, unless it is properly restrained and 
 regulated, it will introduce the mind into weakness. Yet there 
 is a freedom and sociability in the truth, when under the 
 heavenly government; there is "a time to speak," under a 
 guarded care and circumspection, and having the holy fear of 
 God before our eyes. Here is true sociability that refreshes 
 and cheers the mind in social converse. But when the springs 
 of conversation are divinely closed, let none attempt to open 
 them, by fishing for subjects out of the limits of truth ; lest 
 they bring weakness and trouble upon themselves. 
 
 2oth. Mercifully favoured with quietude of mind, through 
 the course of this day. May the praise be ascribed to the 
 great Preserver of men. 
 
 2Gth. Still favoured Avith Heaven's protecting care. Jona- 
 than Kirkbride, a minister from the Falls, attended our meet- 
 
80 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1800. 
 
 ing, and appeared first in vocal supplication, and afterward in 
 a lively testimony, wherein he had much to say to the youth. 
 Hannah Yarnal and John Simpson also addressed the same 
 class feelingly and affectionately. Oh ! may we be stirred up 
 to diligence, and surrender our whole hearts in full obedience 
 to Divine requirings. Walked to a neighbour's, expecting 
 to sit with his family, while his children read the Scrip- 
 tures, which was formerly their practice on First-day after- 
 noons. But, alas ! instead of the Bible being read, there 
 were newspapers lying about tlie windows, and some politi- 
 cal books. My mind was preserved inwardly watchful and 
 quiet. 
 
 27th. In the retrospect of this day, the Divine Intelligencer 
 showed me that there are things which to man's judgment 
 may appear unexceptionable, and yet are not founded and 
 carried on with Divine approbation. The Lord seeth not as 
 man sees ; he looks at the heart. 
 
 28th. Felt an engagement to guard against an outward 
 floating state of mind. Sat in silence during noontime, and 
 received a renewal of spiritual strength. That state of per- 
 fect conformity to the Divine will in all things, Avhich has 
 been shown to me as constituting the great work of true reli- 
 gion here, is so far transcendent in excellency, glory, and 
 safety, in spirituality and holiness, to that which I have 
 attained to, that when I compare myself (encompassed with so 
 many weaknesses, failings, and imperfections) with the perfect 
 man, the difference is so great, that I am ready to say with 
 Job, "I abhor myself, as in dust and ashes." Were it not 
 for a comfortable hope in Divine mercy, at times graciously 
 vouchsafed, I fear my poor soul would sometimes be over- 
 whelmed with discouragements. I also believe in the abundant 
 compassion of Infinite Goodness towards every sincere though 
 feeble exertion of his probationary creatures to emancipate 
 themselves from the bondage of sin, and to work out their 
 souls' salvation. Hence, a hope arises, that if I endeavour to 
 be faithful, he Avill yet help me to overcome and forsake those 
 things which his righteous controversy is against. 
 
 29th. Attended our monthly meeting at Horsham. The 
 two following days were times of trial, in which the light of 
 
Chap, IV.] NARRATIVE OF LIFE— DIARY. 81 
 
 truth was not so conspicuously in the candlestick as it should 
 have been. 
 
 Eleventh month 1st, 1800. — Inwardly stayed this morning, 
 and a good degree of solemnity through the day. Thus, 
 being measurably kept in the fear of the Lord, I found safety 
 in his pavilion. 
 
 Attended the burial of Catharine Walton, an aged "woman. 
 Dined at a friend's house, where the language of the apostle 
 ran through my mind : " Let your moderation appear unto all 
 men." But where a plentiful dinner is provided, and the 
 intended kindness of friends is manifested, by heaping the 
 plates of their guests with great variety of food, there is 
 danger of being the instruments of temptation, to induce a 
 departure from true modei-ation and temperance. On this 
 subject, William Penn's advice is a good watchword : " Always 
 rise from the table with an appetite, and thou wilt seldom sit 
 down to a meal without one." 
 
 2d. Went to Jersey to see my brother Isaac. Attended 
 Ancocas meeting, and heard Samuel Atkinson and Reuben 
 Hilliard preach the gospel. Rebecca Burr, sister to Reuben, 
 also said a few words. Spent the afternoon with my brother, 
 and returned home in safety. 
 
 3d to 5th. Poverty of spirit attended, and my dwelling was 
 too much in the outward court. 
 
 6th. Attended Quarterly Meeting at Abington, at which 
 was Jesse Kersey. He appeared in an acceptable testimony, 
 and several times spoke to the business in a feeling manner. 
 
 Spent the evening at James Walton's, in religious conver- 
 sation with Edward Hicks, who has lately taken a more 
 thoughtful turn, and I hope is on his way to the promised 
 land. Divine love attended my mind, and my prayers were 
 offered up in secret for his protection and establishment on the 
 immovable Rock, Christ Jesus. His natm'al vivacity, and 
 light, airy disposition, will doubtless occasion him some sore 
 conflicts ; but the Divine Power, at work in his soul, is all- 
 sufficient to give the victory, 
 
 7th. Measurably preserved from offending my gracious 
 Benefactor. 
 
 8th. Watchful and stayed. This evening Eber Croasdale 
 
 6 
 
82 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1800. 
 
 departed this life. He Avas my grandmother Hampton's 
 younger brother, and son of Jeremiah and Grace Croasdale. 
 He was educated carefully by his worthy parents ; but, run- 
 ning counter thereunto, he lost his right in society, and moved 
 about from one place to another, for a number of years. Of 
 latter time he resided in Byberry, and kept a beer-house. 
 This was by no means a suitable business for a man addicted 
 to intemperate habits. During ten or twelve years past, I 
 do not recollect seeing him at meeting half a dozen times. 
 Often has my heart been affected with sorrow in passing by 
 his habitation, and at other times, in reflecting on his situation. 
 He was a man of bright, natural talents, of quick understand- 
 ing, and capable of being a very useful member of civil and 
 religious society. He had the opportunity of a good educa- 
 tion, pious parents, exemplary relatives and friends, as well as 
 good society, had he inclined to mingle with such. But he 
 was singular in his habits and manners, and associated with 
 those who were not subject to the cross of Christ. On him 
 seemed to be lost all the solicitude of parents, brothers, and 
 sisters ; the counsel, labour, and care of his friends seemed of 
 no avail. Thousands would have rejoiced to have the op- 
 portunity and advantages which he had, and the privileges 
 which he neglected. There is however one redeeming fea- 
 ture in his character — one glimmering ray of hope, that even 
 past the eleventh hour of his day he may have altered his 
 course, and found mercy. For five or six weeks previous to his 
 death, he has not had a drinking frolic ; but he has been remark- 
 ably industrious. He was taken very ill last first-day morning, 
 and has been severely held, appearing in much bodily agony, 
 and very delirious. The curtain is now drawn — the awful 
 vail between time and eternity is now rent — and with him the 
 scene of probation is forever closed. As the tree falls, so it 
 lies, and for ever ! Oh ! may the reflections on this sad sub- 
 ject be as a solemn memento to remind me of the abundant 
 advantages and privileges that I also enjoy, and for which I 
 must render an account. Oh ! the necessity of wisely improv- 
 ing the time and talents committed to us, that so we may ren- 
 der an account of our stewardship with joy and peace, when- 
 ever the period arrives. 
 
Chap. IV.] NARRATIVE OF LIFE— DIARY. 83 
 
 10th. Attended the burial of uncle Eber Croasdale; so- 
 lemnity impressed my mind, and the sensations of my heart 
 were awful and instructive. Desires also were raised that the 
 people present might improve the opportunity, and so deeply 
 consider their own latter end, as to apply their hearts unto 
 wisdom. 
 
 Engaged in preparing for a journey to Chester county. 
 
 As every action and undertaking we engage in is the effect 
 of some motive or cause, so it becomes necessary for us to 
 know on what principle we act. The jom-ney appears weighty, 
 and how 1 may be disposed of Heaven only knows. Oh ! may 
 it be to His honour who gave me being. The concern herein- 
 before alluded to, of spending a portion of my time at the 
 boarding-school, is among the motives to this journey; that 
 being there, I may again feel after the mind of Truth on the 
 subject ; also, that I may visit my relatives and friends, who 
 have within a few years past removed into Chester county. 
 
 JOURNEY TO WEST-TOWN, ETC. 
 
 Eleventh month 11, 1800. — I set out alone, in a comfortable 
 state of quietude of mind, accompanied with desires that I 
 might be so preserved, wherever my lot might be cast, as to 
 gain instruction and make some improvement thereby; and 
 also that I might be so consistent and cu'cumspect in all 
 things, as not to operate against the pure life and seed of God 
 in the visited. 
 
 Stopped at Philadelphia, and was informed by Alexander 
 Wilson that he had spread my concern of going as a teacher 
 to the boarding-school, before the committee who have charge 
 of that institution, which was favom'ably received. 
 
 After calling at West-town, I went on to James Melone's, 
 about two miles, and lodged, thankful for preservation of body 
 and mind. Next day I set out for Fallowfield, and as I tra- 
 velled alone, my mind was drawn into a solemn quiet, wherein 
 the spirit of supplication was mercifully fuimished, and my soul 
 was engaged in living desires for my own preservation, and 
 that I might be kept in his holy pavilion, in perfect obedience 
 
84 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1800. 
 
 to the Divine will in all things. My heart was enlarged in 
 feeling intercessions for the welfare and protection of my pa- 
 rents, relatives, and friends, one after another, as they rose 
 in my remembrance, with living desires that they might ad- 
 vance in the knowledge of God, and in conformity to his holy 
 will. I rode several miles, while my soul was thus favoured 
 with solemn and ardent breathings to my heavenly Benefactor 
 and Preserver, which closed with fervent desires for the ad- 
 vancement of his kingdom in the hearts of mankind univer- 
 sally. Blessed be his holy name for all his favours conferred 
 on me. 
 
 Arrived at Fallowfield about noon, and visited Daniel Wal- 
 ton's and Benjamin Walton's families. Friends who removed 
 from Byberry to these parts a few years since. Here I met 
 also with Elizabeth Gilbert, senior, one of the Friends who 
 were taken captive by the Indians in 1780. She appeared 
 cheerful and active, and spends much of her time in visiting 
 and assisting her relatives and friends. 
 
 Calling at Daniel Lukens', I went with Jesse Walton, a kind 
 young Friend, to my uncle Jonathan Hampton's, where I 
 stayed the night. During this day, since I came among my 
 old acquaintances, the stream of joy and of social converse 
 were at times almost too much for my mind to sustain, without 
 some relaxation of that covering of watchful circumspection 
 which is ever safe to abide in. When the youthful mind is too 
 much, or too long, engrossed in social conversation, even on 
 lawful subjects, there is danger of increasing our weakness and 
 exposure. 
 
 13th. Attended Fallowfield meeting, which was small and 
 trying in the forepart. Mary Lukens appeared tAvice in testi- 
 mony. She appears to be a deeply thoughtful woman. The 
 baptizing power of truth has prepared her for the ministry. 
 In the exercise of the gift, her words and doctrine appear 
 weighty, solid, and instructive, and her very countenance ma- 
 nifests that she has been with Jesus in spirit. 
 
 Through adorable mercy, the latter part of this meeting was 
 comfortable and solemn ; silent adoration filled my heart. To 
 Heaven be ascribed the praise. 
 
Chap. IV.] NARRATIVE OF LIFE— DIARY. 85 
 
 Dined at my uncle Isaac Smith's, and spent the afternoon. 
 A good degree of the savour of truth attended my mind, and 
 a concern for the welfare of my relatives here, who are wad- 
 ing under difficulties which called forth my sympathy. 
 
 Next morning went to John Gilbert's, at West Cain. On 
 a critical self-examination, I believe I took more liberty in 
 pleasant, social converse, than was good for me. Oh, how nice 
 a matter it is always rightly to govern the tongue, and to keep 
 the mouth as with a bridle. Being made sensible of my con- 
 dition, and turning to the Reprover with a penitent heart, the 
 arms of his mercy were ready to receive me, and I was per- 
 mitted to enjoy the light of his countenance, as I travelled 
 along the road. Lodged at Nathan "Walton's. This Friend 
 removed from Byberry a few years since, and is much im- 
 proved since his residence here. He now appears to be a 
 thoughtful, useful Friend, and has an interesting family rising 
 around him. His outward affairs appear prosperous ; his barn 
 filled, and plenty of hay and grain, the products of an im- 
 proved soil, as the result of his industry. 
 
 A similar appearance of the outward blessings of the fat- 
 ness of the earth, was obsei'vable at his brother Benjamin 
 Walton's. He appears of an humble disposition, and his 
 mind seasoned with Divine love. His words few and savoury, 
 and his company and conversation exemplary and edifying. 
 He also has a precious family of children rising around him. 
 
 These Friends a few years ago settled on these, then, poor 
 and worn-out lands. But with lime, and persevering indus- 
 try, connected with good farming and the blessing of Divine 
 Providence, their farms carry the appearance of being a rich 
 and fertile soil ; and their barns, cribs, and stock give proof 
 of great improvement. But above all, theii' advancement in 
 the Truth — their steady, exemplary conduct and deportment, 
 and their diligent attendance of our religious meetings, fur- 
 nish evidence of their spiritual growth, and of the dew of 
 heaven resting upon them. 
 
 15th. In company with Jesse Walton, I set out for West- 
 town Boarding-School. This young man, also, is an emigrant 
 from Byberry, much improved since his removal to Fallowfield. 
 I felt much unity Avith his affable, mild, and obliging dispo- 
 
86 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1800. 
 
 sition. His conversation agreeable, humble, unassuming, and 
 measurably seasoned ■with the savour of Truth. We dined at 
 Isaac Hayes', -who married Sarah Walton, daughter of Ben- 
 jamin — another native of Byberry, greatly improved since her 
 removal hither. Oh ! how comfortable and satisfactory are 
 these evidences of the goodness of oui* heavenly Father, and 
 the dedication of my former neighboui's, thus advancing in 
 the way of life and salvation. 
 
 After visiting the Chester County Poor-house, we proceeded 
 to James Melone's and lodged. 
 
 Next day, attended the meeting at West-town Boarding- 
 School. Afternoon, viewed the order of dining, and observed 
 the deportment of the pupils. Then attended the reading 
 meeting, which was comfortable. On second-day we visited 
 some of the schools to a good degree of satisfaction. To 
 some of the teachers I opened my prospect of coming to re- 
 side among them, as one of the teachers and care-takers of 
 this large flock of interesting children, which appeared to be 
 cordially approved ; and I was encouraged in a belief that my 
 concern was founded in the movings of Truth. 
 
 In the evening, Enoch Lewis delivered a lecture on Natural 
 Philosophy, which prevented our attending the grammar- 
 schools, as they were suspended on that account. 
 
 18th. Prepared to set out homeward, after a conference 
 with some of the teachers on my concern to join them in the 
 arduous duties of this institution. John Forsyth, the read- 
 ing teacher, informed me of his prospect of leaving here 
 in the spring, and urged my coming to take his place. The 
 longer I was with the teachers, and becoming more ac- 
 quainted with them, the more my sympathy and unity were 
 increased. 
 
 Came on with Samuel Comfort to Philadelphia — my thoughts 
 and reflections much occupied with my visit, and the prospect 
 of going to reside at the boarding-school, which now appears 
 a settled concern, if way opens therefor. Arrived home in 
 the evening, thankful for preservation. 
 
 19th. Attended our meeting, and felt an engagement of 
 mind to seek after the Divine Fountain. Exercised, also, on 
 the concern of going to AVest-town, with desires to be rightly 
 
Chap. IV.] NARRATIVE OF LIFE— DIARY. 87 
 
 directed therein, and to act and proceed in the wisdom and 
 counsel that cometh from above. 
 
 This day I am twenty-seven years of age. How silently 
 and rapidly time passes on. Year after year rolls over, never 
 to return ! Every day of my life is important, and especially 
 as relates to the advancement I make in the Truth. A few 
 years since I was but a child, ignorant, heedless, and too in- 
 attentive to the impression made on my mind for good. Gra- 
 dually, through mercy, I grew in stature and experience, and 
 my sensibility, attention and serious thoughtfulness increased. 
 Now, arrived at manhood, and further advanced in knowledge 
 and in acquaintance with men and things in the world around 
 me, my duties and my sphere of action are enlarged. Mul- 
 tiplied have been the favours and blessings of Divine Provi 
 dencc toward me. Numerous have been the benefits, the ten- 
 der mercies, and the gracious visitations of Divine Light and 
 Love to my soul. It becomes me deeply to examine whether 
 I am living answerably to these unmerited marks of my hea- 
 venly Father's kind and tender regard. The anniversary of 
 my birth very properly recalls my deep consideration, whether I 
 am properly striving to walk in full obedience to the law of my 
 God written in my heart, so as to improve every added day. 
 
 20th to 26th. Favoured to maintain a comfortable degree 
 of inward watchfulness and circumspection. Humbly thank- 
 ful for Divine aid, care, and kindness extended for my preser- 
 vation. 
 
 At monthly meeting I was much exercised on account of 
 the son of one of our members being placed from amongst 
 Friends. I ventured to express my concern in much broken- 
 ness or tenderness of feeling, under which solemnity prevailed, 
 and I felt peace. Dined with my brother's passing company, 
 which was small. Much exercised on account of the large 
 provisions usually made on such occasions. Set an example 
 of temperance and moderation, as also of silence at the table, 
 in which my mind enjoyed a conscious peace. 
 
 27th to 30th. Measurably preserved in watchful circum- 
 spection, except talking too much one evening. Oh ! this of 
 taking the reins in our own hands, out of the limits of the 
 pure Truth ! 
 
88 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1800. 
 
 Twelfth month 1st. — Spent some time in silent "waiting and 
 seeking after my God. Several neighbours came in to assist 
 in killing hogs. This occasioned some serious reflections. 
 Taking the life of any creature is, I think, an awful thing. 
 But custom seems to familiarize the minds of butchers to the 
 business, so that little concern is felt on such occasions. It 
 would seem consistent with the state and feelings of a real 
 Christian, that when the life of any of the creatures of God 
 must be taken, in order to furnish us with food, it should be 
 done in the most tender and expeditious manner, so as to occa- 
 sion the least amount of suffering ; and that those engaged in 
 depriving these creatures of the life given them by the Al- 
 mighty, should be serious and thoughtful, as well as grateful 
 for these gifts of Divine Providence for our nourishment and 
 support. Hog-killing and butchering would not then produce 
 hardness of heart, nor exhibit such scenes of mirth, diversion, 
 and wanton cruelty afe now too much abound. 
 
 2d. Surveying. The parties met at a tavern. In a little 
 opportunity of silent retirement, while waiting for the arrival 
 of my employers, my meditations were occupied with the sub- 
 jects of the corruptions, profaneness, and licentiousness of the 
 people who frequent taverns and places of vain diversions. Oh ! 
 how sad the reflection that men, the noblest work of the Al- 
 mighty hand, should thus be degraded into a condition worse 
 than the brute beasts, by thus indulging their appetites for 
 strong drink, and following the lusts of the flesh. But such 
 appears to be the case with many of the inhabitants of this 
 highly favoured land. 
 
 3d, 4th. I want to dwell so steadily in the Root of Divine 
 Life, as that the savour of truth may attend all my words and 
 actions. 
 
 5th. This diary is continued — not in order to form a history 
 of my life, nor for the amusement of a vain and curious mind. 
 If ever these memorandums should be perused by others, I wish 
 them to attend to the important object of their being kept by 
 me, namely : the improvement of my mind and conduct in the 
 great business of this life, so as to advance in the knoAvledge 
 of Divine truth, and in religious stability and watchful cir- 
 
Chap. IV.] NARRATIVE OF LIFE— DIARY. 89 
 
 cumspection, so as to become prepared for a better life and a 
 more glorious inheritance. 
 
 6th. Much occupied with the thoughts of going to West- 
 town. But it appears as a place of trials. I desire to remain 
 quiet and resigned, and that I may be as the passive clay in 
 the Divine Hand, in relation to this important movement. 
 
 7th. In conversation with a young man, bore my testimony 
 against hunting game as an amusement. Was enabled to 
 refute all his arguments in favour of the practice, and to 
 show that all our actions were estimated according to our 
 motives. 
 
 Had a conference with a person against whom some un- 
 favourable reports have been in circulation, and was renewedly 
 confirmed in the rectitude of this method of discouraging and 
 avoiding "tale-bearing and detraction." I have found it best 
 for me, on such occasions, to use plainness in a free conference 
 with persons of whom I had heard unfavourable reports, and 
 it has generally resulted in satisfaction and good feelings. I 
 wish this care were more general. Prejudices, and shyness, 
 and disunity would thereby be prevented, and love and har- 
 mony would be the blessed consequence. 
 
 8th to 11th. Generally preserved in comfortable regularity, 
 and much exercised about informing my parents of my concern 
 to go to West-town. At a proper time I mentioned it to 
 my mother, and she referred the subject to my feelings of its 
 rectitude. 
 
 13th. Was invited by my brother Joseph to attend his mar- 
 riage with Abigail Parry, and dine with them. This renewed 
 an exercise that has increased in my mind of latter time, in 
 relation to making large wedding companies, and correspond- 
 ing entertainments. As a testimony in favour of small 
 companies, and plain family dinners — that is, against the 
 parade, superfluity, and extravagance of the modern prac- 
 tice, I have declined accepting invitations to weddings. But 
 now, the case has come so home as to bring me into a 
 deep concern how to act. My inclination would be to stay 
 away, and perserve my own peace and quietness; but this 
 would be singular, and likely to give offence. How then 
 shall I act? was a question that engaged my earnest desires 
 
90 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1800. 
 
 for right direction ; and I penned tlie cogitations and balanc- 
 ings in my own mind. 
 
 For several days this subject occupied my reflections and 
 inquiries, until it became almost too heavy to bear. My soul 
 was tossed as in a tempest. Fervent were my desires to act 
 consistently with my heavenly Father's will, and to avoid 
 giving ofl"ence to my relatives and friends. Great Avas the 
 conflict of my soul ; and this continued to the hour of getting 
 ready to go to meeting, when my brother Isaac came from An- 
 cocas, in order to attend the wedding. This turned the scale 
 so as to induce me to accompany him. I went to meeting, 
 and to the house of entertainment. I can only say, painful 
 sensations attended ; weakness ensued, and poverty of spirit 
 became my portion. I seemed to be left in the outward court, 
 and dryness and superficiality of mind prevailed. This was 
 construed as an evidence that I did wrong in attending the 
 wedding ; and yet, after a humiliating season of deep search- 
 ing of heart, the Comforter retm-ned, and the consolations of 
 Divine goodness were extended as the healing balm of his 
 love to my tribulated soul. For ever blessed be his name. 
 
 Twelfth month 25, 1800. — Poor and low in mind. Tried to 
 gather a little strength by waiting in the morning, but seemed 
 to gain no sensible access to the Divine Fountain. My state 
 was too much on the surface. 
 
 26th. The morning as yesterday ; but I became weary of 
 dwelling in the outward court, and desirous of feeling the 
 savour of Divine Life, sometimes mercifully dispensed to a 
 state of humble abiding under the cross of Christ. At length 
 a little holy help was vouchsafed, and some living desires after 
 the bread of life. 
 
 27th. In times of poverty and stripping, like the famine 
 that dried up the brook Cherith, the faithfulness of the widow 
 of Sarepta in making "the little cake first," in obedience to 
 the Lord's prophet, became the means of sustenance for many 
 days, until the Lord sent rain upon the earth. 
 
 For several days following, maintained a state of inward 
 watchfulness, in which the prayer of my soul was for preserva- 
 tion in the inner courts of the Lord's house. 
 
 31st. Was at Horsham monthly meeting. Afternoon 
 
Chap. IV.] NARRATIVE OF LIFE— DIARY. 91 
 
 attended to some business for my brother Isaac ; and on re- 
 viewing my course through the day, I feel a hope that I have 
 not committed any act against the truth, although too little, 
 on the other hand, for the honour of the blessed cause. 
 
 First month 12th, 1801. — Much preserved from a worldly 
 spirit, and favoui'ed with solemnity and quietude of mind, on 
 a review of the day. My prayer was that I might be enabled, 
 through Divine grace, to watch with diligence against every 
 appearance, not only of obvious evils and inconsistencies, but 
 also against the subtle transformations of the selfish reasoning 
 powers — the enemies of my soul. 
 
 First month 24th. Found a satisfaction in reading over 
 some of my former notes and memorandums, tending to my 
 quickening and encouragement. Yet, on a close inspection, 
 there are many things that obtrude upon the mind, so as to 
 prevent it from a steady abiding in a collected, watchful state. 
 Oh ! how good and how safe is this retired, stayed, and solid 
 condition of mind. But even Avhen a little of this is attained, 
 the things of the world seem powerful to draw away the 
 thoughts, and oft remind me of the poet's language, "they 
 tempt me off before his face." 
 
 I wish to feel the baptizing power of truth, to quicken my 
 spirit and animate to renewed fervency in daily seeking after 
 the living bread which cometh from above, and nourishes the 
 soul up to life eternal, that so I may no longer feed on husks 
 and suffer famine, when there is bread enough in my heavenly 
 Father's house and to spare. 
 
 25th. John Simpson appeared in a long testimony, and 
 afterward concluded the meeting in supplication to the Al- 
 mighty, to raise up and qualify a succession of ministers and 
 faithful labourers in this place. Measurably preserved from 
 offending my God. 
 
 26th. Again too much on the surface of things. 
 
 More solidity next morning, but much tried in school — and 
 afterward with a press of business. 
 
 28th. Made some remarks in monthly meeting on the 
 answer to the second query. Saw the danger of get- 
 
92 JOUKNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1801 
 
 ting into a habit of speaking in our own wills and not suffi- 
 ciently waiting for the Divine anointing, to qualify and put 
 forth to service in the Lord's work. Hence the natural ope- 
 rations of a judgment or opinion, formed in the selfish spirit 
 of human reasoning, may become substituted for the motions 
 of Truth, and dryness, formality and weakness may ensue. 
 I wish the members of our society may be quickened to 
 more religious concern, and engaged to labour in the blessed 
 cause, watching over one another in love, and administering 
 counsel, advice, exhortation, and, where needful, warning and 
 reproof to their fellow members — all in the meekness and gen- 
 tleness of Christ. For several days my dwelling seemed to 
 be in the outward court, wherein the cares of this life occupied 
 too much of my attention. 
 
 My spirit has been afflicted with thinking of the depravity 
 of mankind ; and I have had a sense of the condition of many 
 of my fellow-creatures, who are passing along in a state of 
 alienation from the Divine harmony. Hence the minds even 
 of high professors become laden as with thick clay; their ears 
 dull of hearing, and their spiritual vision closed from seeing 
 the things that appertain to their best interest. Over these 
 my spirit mourns. 
 
 Second month, 5th. Attended Abington Quarterly Meet- 
 ing, and hope I gained a little good. Had a very favoured 
 meeting on first-day following, in which a living current of 
 love and good-will to my fellow-probationers flowed through 
 my mind. 
 
 9th. Went to West-town with Hannah Yarnal and Sarah 
 Knight. Next day, again visited the schools there to satis- 
 faction. The morning following was very stormy, but we set 
 out and got safely home, through the favour of kind Provi- 
 dence, for which I felt grateful as well as for his manifold 
 blessings. 
 
 15th. Sincerely desirous of Divine help and preservation, 
 which was mercifully granted, and a good degree of stability 
 experienced. Oh ! that I may labour Avith greater fervency 
 for the rcnewings of Divine life ; and that when he is pleased 
 to grant me access into the inner courts of his temple, I may 
 use all diligence in watching against every thing that has a 
 
Chap. IV. ] NAKEATIVE OF LIFE— DIARY. 93 
 
 tendency to divert my attention fi-om the one thing needful, 
 and lead into a conformity with the manners, customs, and 
 friendships of the world. 
 
 17th. For some days past, have been closely employed in 
 getting my affairs and business arranged, so as to be ready to 
 remove to West-town. To this is added the attendance and 
 care of a large school in the daytime, and every other even- 
 ing confined with an evening school for young men. But if 
 I could feel the everlasting arms to be underneath, all these 
 things might be readily sustained and properly attended to. 
 
 18th. A trying preparative meeting. ' 
 
 My spirit mourns, and at times is covered with sadness on 
 account of the ark of the testimonies of the God of Israel. 
 Afternoon — inwardly stayed and watchful, which continued 
 next day. 
 
 20th. In a retrospect of the day past, I felt thankful for 
 Divine aid and preservation. Quietness and peace of mind 
 comfortably prevalent ; under which I was led into a feeling 
 of the condition of too many of the inhabitants of this my 
 native land. Mournful reflections attended the view thus 
 opened. 
 
 21st. Comforted in the belief that I am not forsaken, but 
 again permitted to dwell as in the inner courts of the Lord's 
 house. 
 
 22d. In an opportunity with some near relatives, a concern 
 to offer them some counsel came upon me ; but the reasoner 
 arose, and after a hard struggle prevailed, so that I omitted 
 to deliver the message that livingly flowed in my mind toward 
 them. Thus the way closed, and condemnation was my por- 
 tion. I went to meeting, but the countenance of my heavenly 
 Father seemed vailed from my view, and I seemed to be left 
 in a state of darkness, drowsiness, and insensibility of Divine 
 good. 
 
 I have no doubt that it would have been right for me to 
 have offered to my relatives what arose in my mind ; but, 
 alas ! the flesh was weak. 
 
94 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1801. 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 WEST-TOIVN BOARDING-SCHOOL, 1801. 
 
 Memorandums, reflections, &c. penned as Avay-marks in my 
 future passing along through time, or as a mirror, whereby 1 
 may look back at the situation I have been in, and compare it 
 with the present. 
 
 "'Tis greatly wise to talk with our past hours, 
 And ask them what report they bore to Heaven." 
 
 During the course of my passing along through time, I have, 
 on diflerent occasions and under various impressions, commit- 
 ted my thoughts to writing, being desirous of improvement 
 both in literature and in the important work of renovation of 
 heart. On reviewing these loose papers in my retired mo- 
 ments, I have frequently been impressed with serious sensa- 
 tions which have tended to stir up the pure mind in me, by 
 the remembrance of the gracious dealings of the Father of 
 Mercies with my soul ; by reflecting on the former scenes of 
 my life, and on the swift and silent lapse of time, as it hastens 
 me on toward the solemn period when all the toils and anxi- 
 eties of this transitory life will be over, and a state of fixed- 
 ness assigned me in that awful eternity which is approaching. 
 Under these impressions, I have felt ardently desirous that I 
 might " so number my days as to apply my heart unto wis- 
 dom," and so pass the time of my sojourning here as to gain 
 the approbation of Heaven ; and in all things become conform- 
 able to His holy will, whose tender mercies and gracious visita- 
 tions I have abundant cause to acknowledge with gratitude and 
 thankfulness of heart. 
 
 On the 8th day of fourth month, 1801, under very solemn 
 feelings, I took leave of my near and dear connections, and set 
 out on my journey of removal to West-town. The uncertainty 
 of my ever seeing them again in mutability was impressed on 
 my mind, and the great responsibility of the work in which I 
 was about to engage occasioned many serious reflections. 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWN, 95 
 
 The increase of my business of late in surveying, con- 
 veyancing, and other services in the neighbourhood, the 
 solicitations of my friends for my stay among them, the 
 pleasant and agreeable situation I have enjoyed in their 
 society, a good school convenient to meeting, and various 
 other circumstances, have at times almost induced me to 
 wish I might be excused from coming to this place. Yet my 
 want of proper qualifications for so important and arduous a 
 station has been a more powerful consideration of discourage- 
 ment. However, believing that the impressions I have felt of 
 its being right for me to devote a portion of my time in this 
 institution have not originated in my own will; and trusting in 
 Divine Providence for guidance, direction, and support, I have 
 been favoured to feel resigned, and to leave the event to Him 
 who will never fail nor forsake those who put their trust in 
 him, and lean not to their own understandings. 
 
 9th. I was favoured to arrive safely at West-town ; was 
 kindly received and introduced to the teachers and others, 
 who appeared glad to see me. Painfully impressed with a 
 sense of my unworthiness, and poverty of spirit. 
 
 Next day went into some of the schools. Felt much as a 
 stranger, ignorant and insufficient, and as a little child. In 
 the evening John Baldwin, one of the teachers, invited me to 
 walk with him, which I did. He appeared to feel sympathy 
 with me, and endeavoured to encourage me. 
 
 19th. I have now been here upward of a week, and have 
 passed through various exercises, and witnessed a variety of 
 sensations different from those which my former situation ex- 
 cited. I feel a hope that my gracious Master is near, and 
 that my being here is consistent with his Divine will. In 
 this morning's meeting was exercised in seeking after Divine 
 Good ; and in the reading meeting was favoured with desires 
 for improvement, and with fervent aspirations that the minds 
 of the dear children might be deeply impressed with the solemn 
 truths read to them. Whilst I was thus exercised, I felt some- 
 thing gathering in my mind as though it might be intended 
 for them. I remembered the struggle I had passed through 
 some time ago, when in my father's house, imder an appre- 
 hension that it was my duty to speak a few words ; feeble 
 
96 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1801. 
 
 nature seemed to wish the meeting to close, and to be excused 
 from this service. At length a good degree of resignation 
 being attained, and the impression decreasing, I felt some- 
 what released. Shortly after, J. Baldwin arose, and spoke 
 very acceptably a considerable time. Be ready, my soul, 
 to do what thy hand findeth to do of the Master's requiring. 
 
 20th. Have a comfortable evidence that my heavenly 
 Father is with me, and that I have been preserved from 
 offending him. Passed through considerable exercise of 
 mind on the children's account ; several of them, having been 
 very naughty, required correction, and much counsel and 
 tender admonition was extended to them. Dear J. B. labours 
 fervently and in abundant tenderness and loving entreaty with 
 them. I fully believe he is a blessing to this institution, being 
 of a meek and quiet spirit, humble, affectionate, and circum- 
 spectly guarded in his conduct and conversation. Oh ! may 
 I strive to follow him as he follows Christ. 
 
 Fifth month 11th. — The field of labour in this place is 
 large. Much appears necessary to be done ; and as to my- 
 self, weakness attends, yet I am willing to be useful in my 
 station. Although discouragements at times prevail, I trust 
 my coming here was right, and am in hopes all will work for 
 good. 
 
 31st. Though so far separated from my near relatives, I 
 remember them in nearness of affection. I often think of 
 the little remnant, the hidden seed, in our meeting of By- 
 berry with whom my spirit feels sympathy. May the exer- 
 cised travellers there be strengthened, and enabled to support 
 the Ark of the Testimony with becoming firmness ; and to 
 advance in the precious cause with a holy confidence in the 
 never-failing arm of Divine Power, and in a firm dependence 
 on the Shepherd of Israel, who will carry on his own work in 
 the earth by such means and instruments as his wisdom sees 
 meet, and will yet bring to nought things that are by things 
 that are not. 
 
 I feel the need of daily supplies of Divine wisdom and 
 strength in ray arduous employment here, for human wisdom 
 and policy are entirely insufiicient for carrying on this work 
 or prospering it. 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWN. 97 
 
 Sixth month 18th. — Since I came here, upwaivls of two 
 months have elapsed — thus time passes on with silent step, 
 never to return. Consider, my soul ! how it is with thee ? 
 Art thou living answerably to the beneficent care and kind- 
 ness of thy all-gracious Creator, who daily bestows his bless- 
 ings upon thee ? 
 
 20th. Having for some time been exercised on account of 
 the term friend being so frequently used at this school, par- 
 ticularly among the girls, I ventured to express my feelings 
 on the subject to some of the female teachers ; who, although 
 somewhat in the practice of using the term themselves, freely 
 acknowledged the impropriety of it, and expressed their de- 
 sires that a reformation may take place. The free expression 
 of their sentiments in unison with my own, tended to confirm 
 my belief that the custom originates in a disposition to evade 
 the cross, and to imitate the world's fashions. 
 
 21st. Various trials and difficulties, exercises and cares, 
 attend my pilgrimage here. May patience be sought after, 
 and have its perfect work. Guard me, oh my heavenly 
 Father ! and preserve me alive to thee as well in winter as in 
 summer. 
 
 22d. Much depressed, under a sense of my unworthiness 
 and insufficiency for so great a charge as is devolving on me 
 from day to day, and in view of the toil and exercise, the care 
 and confinement, both of body and mind, which attend my 
 situation. Yet these would seem but little if the presence of 
 Him who dwelleth on high were continually with me. I believe 
 I do not distrust his all-sufficient power, and hope I am mea- 
 surably resigned to his all-wise dispensations, whether it be 
 my lot to abound or to suffer, to feel myself poor and stripped, 
 or whatever he sees meet for me. 
 
 27th. Humbly hope that Divine Goodness has not forsaken 
 me ; but I feel the need of more inwardness and stayedness on 
 that Rock which cannot be shaken, that so I may feel an 
 anchor to my soul in times of trial. Holy One ! preserve 
 me little and low with the seed of life ; having no dependence 
 but on Thee, whom I desire to serve. 
 
 Seventh month 5th. — Failings and imperfections, weak- 
 nesses and infirmities encompass me, so that it sometimes 
 7 
 
98 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1801. 
 
 seems as though I was living as a cipher among men. Were 
 it not for a little reviving at times, I know not where I should 
 get to; yet, how unfit am I to be favoured with heavenly- 
 refreshment ; soon get lifted up above the suffering seed, and 
 dwell too much on the surface. Oh ! when shall I learn wis- 
 dom ? when shall I acquire stability and a humble reliance on 
 Divine guidance in all my ways ? Father of Light and Life, 
 forsake me not ; but help me, though unworthy of thy mani- 
 fold mercies. 
 
 16th. A pleasant morning. The enlivening scenes of 
 nature are displayed around me in the beautiful landscapes, 
 which are rendered more delightful by a clear sky and the 
 gentle breezes which fan them ; the notes of birds warbling 
 on the branches, hymning their great Creator's praise, add a 
 pleasing sensation to the contemplative mind. my soul ! 
 what does all this impress on the understanding? What 
 instruction canst thou derive from the Divine works thus 
 opened to thy view ? Meditate and adore. 
 
 26th. The great necessity of a deep attention to the nature 
 of offences or transgressions of the rules, and the motive and 
 disposition whence they proceed, was feelingly impressed on 
 my mind, and that before any punishment is inflicted, the 
 case should be clearly understood and the disposition of the 
 offender's mind felt after; and when correction is needful, that 
 we administer it with calmness and deliberation, and do nothing 
 of the kind in a hurry, lest self be too active, and our own 
 passions feel some gratification therein, and resentment be 
 excited in the dehnquent's mind, or som-ness produced, and 
 thus the object be frustrated — the good principle hurt rather 
 than cherished — and an improper disposition strengthened 
 rather than reclaimed. By too little attention to the spring 
 of action, and a little misunderstanding of some things, we 
 may with too much precipitancy proceed to inflict punishments 
 on those who are innocent, and may have no voice to plead 
 their own cause. Thus some who are desirous to do well may 
 be oppressed, and the good plant may be crushed or retarded 
 in its growth. 
 
 Soliloquy. — my soul ! how manifold are the favours of 
 Heaven which thou receivest. Although sensible of thy 
 
Chap, v.] DIARY AT AVEST-TOWN. 99 
 
 unworthiness, In a great measure, yet the bounteous Hand is 
 still disposed to bless thee. Many deeply trying seasons thou 
 hast experienced, seasons of poverty and drowsiness, when 
 seated for the purpose of solemn worship ; and thou hast 
 known an earnest labour and exercise to overcome, and to 
 centre down in calmness and quietude, even until the meeting 
 has closed, and it seemed as if no state of inward silence was 
 attained — no feeling adoration — no spirit of prayer nor divine 
 good experienced ; but heaviness, dulness, and drowsiness in 
 their stead. Thus this morning's meeting was endured, even 
 to trembling of body by reason of the struggle. Discourage- 
 ments crowded fast to prevent attending afternoon meeting ; 
 which would perhaps have prevailed, had not the idea of 
 example occurred ; but how different did this prove from the 
 morning meeting. A good degree of calmness and stayed- 
 ness of mind was witnessed ; and toward the close, light again 
 broke forth in feeling intercession to the Father of Mercies, 
 and humble adoration of that great name which is a strong 
 tower to those who trust therein. Thu^n extremity, he is 
 sometimes pleased to appear with healing in his wings. 
 my soul ! reverence and adore, and still ti'ust in him. 
 
 30th. Favoured with the company of T. Scattergood at our 
 meeting, who appeared in the ministry largely and livingly. 
 His doctrine distilled as the dew, by which I was refreshed 
 and strengthened. An exercise was feelingly expressed that 
 the poor and little, the weak and discouraged, might increase 
 in a godly jealousy over themselves, in a full belief that their 
 reward will be sure as they keep under their exercises. 
 
 31st, Experienced Divine goodness to be near. Had a com- 
 fortable season of silence with a few boys toward evening, and 
 was favoured to speak a few words of encouragement to them; 
 felt my strength renewed thereby. Blessed be the name of 
 the Lord. 
 
 Eighth month 1st. — Favoured to dwell measurably under 
 that covering of spirit wherein stability and a renewal of 
 strength is experienced. Though some trials have attended, 
 and difficulties occurred, yet at times through the day I have 
 witnessed a comfortable feeling, as under my own vine and 
 fig-tree, where nothing can make afraid. Thus day and night, 
 
100 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1801. 
 
 seed-time and harvest, summer and winter, succeed each 
 other. May I learn in times of refreshing to labour after an 
 increase of faith, and trust in God, so as to have oil in my 
 vessel when darkness or wintry seasons are allotted me. 
 
 6th. Had a comfortable meeting. May I be humble and 
 strive more and more to dig deep and " carefully cast forth the 
 loose matter," that so I may become cleansed from the defile- 
 ments of the world, and I dedicate my life, and my all, to His 
 service who is thus mindful of me. 
 
 9th. Rose in the morning with desires for preservation. In- 
 clined to take a walk ; my quietude therein much disturbed by 
 a trifling occurrence. Alas ! what a trifle will discompose 
 me. Ah ! where is the meekness and patience of the Lamb I — 
 that evenness of temper which the gospel inspires. 
 
 11th. Awoke in a sweet frame of mind, with a flow of love 
 and good-will to my fellow-creatures. The day passed too su- 
 perficially. In some instances too unguarded in my conduct 
 among the children ; rather morose, and spoke in too high a 
 tone when necessity appeared to call for the exertion of autho- 
 rity — feel conviction therefor. Lord, help me with thy grace, 
 and forsake me not. Be wisdom and strength to me in my 
 weakness, and oh, direct me what thou wouldest have me to do. 
 
 12th. On coming into school and making the usual pause 
 before proceeding to business, I felt sensibly that I had many 
 unsubjected wills to manage ; a spirit opposed to order pre- 
 vailing in the minds of many of the children occasions hard 
 work. Sought after divine wisdom and strength to enable me 
 to act rightly in my arduous station. 
 
 16th. A pleasant morning inwardly and outwardly. Much 
 tried in morning meeting with a heavy, stupid, lethargic spirit, 
 which all my strivings seemed ineff"ectual to overcome. 
 My animal and mental faculties were depressed ; abundant 
 weakness surrounded me. For what purpose I am thus tried, 
 my God knows. May it be answered. 
 
 In the afternoon, in great poverty and gloomy apprehen- 
 sions, went to reading meeting. Was preserved from feeling 
 any thing of drowsiness ; and in wonderful mercy and loving- 
 kindness, the great Parent of Love was pleased to manifest 
 himself toward the close in a sweet, comfortable visitation of 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWN. 101 
 
 his love to my soul. " Can a maid forget her ornaments, or a 
 bride her attire ? Yet Zion said, My Lord hath forsaken me, 
 and my God hath forgotten me. Yea, they may forget, yet will 
 not I forget thee — thou art graven upon the ^:)rtZ»is of my 
 hands. Thy walls are continualhj before me." Such was the 
 comfortable language that revived upon my mind, inspiring 
 earnest breathings that his protecting care might continue to 
 be over me; and in a grateful sense of his watchful providence, 
 my soul was made to adore him whom I have desired to serve. 
 
 Thus in extremity the gracious Master is pleased to extend 
 his arm of power, and to reach forth to the fainting mind the • 
 wine of his kingdom. Learn, my soul, by this day's expe- 
 rience, to put thy trust in Omnipotence, and never despair of 
 his mercy. Whatever trials may attend thee, look unto him 
 with steadfastness, and in humble confidence that he will 
 never forget those who desire to love and serve him, but will, 
 in his own time arise with healing in his wings. 
 
 17th. Received a very acceptable visit in my school from 
 our kind friends, H. Evans and R. Archer, who are spending 
 some days here, and I trust rightly so. It is comfortable when 
 our concerned friends come and feel a little with us and for us 
 in our tried situations. 
 
 This evening had a comfortable conference among the 
 teachers. The sweetness and satisfaction my mind enjoyed 
 was precious ; felt much unity and sympathy with those pre- 
 sent, particularly the exercised little ones. 
 
 25th. Calmness and serenity of mind, though not that depth 
 of feeling which I have found profitable. Perhaps it may be 
 compared to a season of relaxation, and preparation for more 
 arduous exercise. May I be guarded, that I take not my flight 
 as on the " Sabbath day." 
 
 28th. Set off this morning in the stage, for the purpose of 
 making a visit to my relatives and friends at home, which I 
 have been contemplating for some time past. On arriving in 
 Philadelphia, soon met with a number of our former scholars, 
 and several friends, with whom an acquaintance has been 
 formed since I have been at West-town, and was glad to see 
 them. In mingling with my former friends and acquaintance, 
 my spirit seemed rejoiced, and I found it necessary to guard 
 
102 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1801. 
 
 against a spirit of pride or thinking mucli of myself. Be 
 humble, my soul ! — remember thou art poor and dependent. 
 
 Next morning walked through the market, and spoke with 
 several of my old neighbours and friends ; at length met with 
 my father and brother, to our mutual satisfaction and comfort, 
 after a separation of nearly five months. Took a seat with 
 them, and after a dusty ride arrived safely at the place of my 
 nativity, where I met with my dear mother, brothers, and fa- 
 mily, to our mutual rejoicing. 
 
 And now that I am again permitted to mingle with my pa- 
 rents and family, may I be sensible of the favour ; may I not 
 be ungrateful, but humbly thankful that I am thus mercifully 
 preserved and bountifully cared for by the great Shepherd of 
 Israel. I beseech thee, my God ! to keep me in innocence 
 and humility, that I may do nothing to offend or hurt the 
 blessed cause of truth. May I so walk in thy holy fear as to 
 dwell near thee, the preserving fountain of love. 
 
 30th. Had a precious, comfortable meeting, after which 
 spoke with many of my dear friends, who appeared glad to see 
 me, and I equally so to see them. Some instructive and so- 
 lemn feelings were excited on viewing my old walks ; the 
 school-house, Avhere so many of my days have been passed ; 
 and on consideration of the changes, trials, and exercises I 
 have since experienced. Spent the rest of the day with my 
 sister and friends, to satisfaction. My animal spirits seem so 
 revived, that, in conversation with my friends, I am apt to 
 say more than tends to an increase of strength. The still 
 small voice has frequently whispered the caution, "Be not 
 too much rejoiced, and beware of talking too much." " Spend 
 not unprofitably and unnecessarily the strength thou art fa- 
 voured with." 
 
 I have felt much like a vessel or dam of water, full, as if, 
 were the gate only rightly opened, my heart could pour out 
 much of a stream of Divine love to my fellow-creatures, so very 
 desirous do I feel for their everlasting well-being. 
 
 While spending about ten days within the vicinity of my na- 
 tive place, visiting divers relatives and friends, my mind was 
 at times introduced into deep feeling, exercise, or suffering, in 
 sympathy and in concern on account of some of these. Ou 
 
Chap. V.] NARRATIVE OF LIFE— DIARY, 103 
 
 one occasion, in visiting a neighbouring family, my mind was 
 impressed with an apprehension that I should not go away 
 clear without requesting an opportunity of silence with them. 
 After struggling awhile in weakness, I was just about to leave, 
 under a fear of my concern being wrong, or not deep enough, 
 when I remembered former omissions of such little intimations 
 of duty and the consequences. I then collected my little 
 strength, and mentioned my concern to the friend of sitting 
 awhile in silence with them, which he readily granted. Two 
 poor men being at work for him were called in at my request, 
 and we sat down in stillness. My spirit was impressed with 
 awfulness, and I expressed what was on my mind, though in 
 much weakness. Felt a hope it was not wrong, though wished 
 for more evidence and confii'mation of its rectitude. Perhaps 
 it is best for me to feel my weakness. 
 
 On another occasion, in calling at a neighbour's, he men- 
 tioned a matter of difference existing between his family and 
 one of their near relatives, and said he had long wished to see 
 me. On his relating to me the state of things, my sorrow and 
 exercise were great. My heart seemed full, and my eyes ready 
 to overflow. I entreated him, and plead with his children by 
 the most affectionate counsel and persuasive language I was 
 capable of, to go with me to have the difference reconciled, 
 but it proved unavailing ; and under painful feelings and deep 
 concern I left them, and went alone to the other party to try 
 to prevail on him and his wife to use all endeavours to have the 
 matter settled and harmony restored. The example of Jesus 
 in forgiving injuries and insults ; the impossibility of a spirit 
 of contention gaining admittance into the mansions of rest ; 
 the injunctions of the gospel, and the ties of relationship and 
 society, with many other reasons, were urged; but all that I 
 could say seemed to have no effect in prevailing on them to go 
 with me for the purpose of reconciliation. Sadness and grief 
 covered my spirit ; my tears were poured out before the Lord, 
 and I mourned in the bitterness of my heart. The anguish I 
 endured seemed a little to affect them. After doing all in my 
 power, and travelling from one house to the other in order to 
 bring about a reconciliation, I had some satisfaction in pro- 
 curing an interview between the two parties, and when to- 
 
104 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1801. 
 
 gether, used my utmost endeavours to have the difference set- 
 tled. I took my leave of them, and trust from my feelings, 
 that no affection has been lost between them and me by these 
 affecting scenes, and I hope the labour will not be ineffectual. 
 Never do I remember to have been so deeply exercised on 
 such an occasion. May it be blessed, and love and unity re- 
 stored, then shall my soul be glad and rejoice in the Lord, 
 who saw the exercise thereof. 
 
 I visited my old school, and was interested in the exercises, 
 though I saw where improvements might be made in several 
 respects. I was glad to see the children, many of whom feel 
 near to me ; and improved an opportunity of silence by ex- 
 pressing what was on my mind, in a short communication, be- 
 ing desirous for their welfare and preservation. 
 
 Many of my friends from Bucks county, as well as those in. 
 the neighbourhood, visited me at my father's house, I trust to 
 our mutual satisfaction and comfort. What shall I render for 
 the kindness and attention of my friends to me, an unworthy 
 creature ? 
 
 9th of eighth month. — I bid an affectionate farewell to my 
 dear parents, sisters, and brothers, and took a seat with J. 
 Walton, who kindly accommodated me with a passage to the 
 city. Our ride was agreeable, and I hope our conversation 
 was profitable. I lodged at my kind friend David Bacon's, whom 
 I much love. His tender counsel and fatherly care, with a 
 free, open, and loving disposition, render his company agree- 
 able and instructive. 
 
 Next day, after attending to several little matters of tem- 
 poral business, I left the city for West-town. Arrived here 
 safely in the evening ; found the family in health, and felt 
 glad in being again with them. Thus my guardian Protector 
 hath kindly watched over and cared for me. May I be thankful 
 for the favours and blessings enjoyed, and endeavour to mani- 
 fest my gratitude by doubling diligence in the work and ser- 
 vice that may be allotted me. 
 
 11th. My^nind too much outward; too little religious sen- 
 sibility. Found my dear colleagues under a weight of discou- 
 ragement and gloominess; and became impressed therewith 
 myself. 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWN. 105 
 
 16th. Went into the gallery -where the boys were collected 
 for bed, and when a motion was made to retire, feeling some 
 concern attend my mind, I stood up and expressed my feel- 
 ings with considerable enlargement, and I was favoured to do it 
 in a manner that I hope made some good impressions on their 
 minds. Afterward, T. Dent, being much affected, spoke to 
 them in much brokenness and humility. Solemnity seemed 
 to spread and prevail, and I hope the opportunity was profit- 
 able. 
 
 24th. Some feeble exertions to draw near to God, and to 
 depend on him alone, were experienced. I see that the na- 
 tural man, with all his faculties and powers, is inadequate to 
 the right government of these children — that human strength 
 and contrivance are insuificient for the work ; and faith is 
 given me to believe that Divine Providence will interpose, di- 
 rect, and govern, agreeably to his wise purposes, and he will 
 graciously afford help as there is a humble dependence and 
 looking to him with singleness of heart, and not leaning to 
 the arm of flesh. Felt somewhat revived and strengthened by 
 this renewed confidence in his Almighty arm of power. 
 
 2Tth. Had the acceptable company of Jacob Lindley and 
 wife at meeting. They both appeared in public testimony, 
 and it seemed as a season of fresh visitation to many minds 
 present. 
 
 Tenth month 1st. — The great advantage of dwelling in the 
 inner courts of the Lord's house, not only in our spiritual, but 
 also in our temporal concerns, was renewedly opened to the 
 view of my mind, and desires were raised that I might dwell 
 there forever, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire 
 in his temple. ! may I labour more and more to keep near 
 to the Source of life in all my words and actions, and may I be 
 quickened to more diligence therein, from day to day. Yet 
 in the latter part of this day my mind became more relaxed, 
 and less spiritual fervency was felt. Alas ! how soon my soul 
 "mingles with the dross of earth again." 
 
 2d. Oh ! my poverty, my want of fields of offerings, and 
 divine energy to build up the altar, and keep the fire always 
 bui'ning upon it. 
 
 11th. Had the company of Jesse Kersey at meeting to-day, 
 
106 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1801. 
 
 and an edifying communication, tending to encom-age in pa- 
 tience under all our various trials and afflictions. 
 
 22d. Languor in makino; these memorandums seems much 
 to prevail of late. Have the care of the children this week, 
 and feel very different from what I did a few weeks ago. They 
 generally conduct themselves pretty well. I feel my spirit over 
 theirs, and consider this as a favour- from Him who can con- 
 trol as he pleases. 
 
 2oth. Received an acceptable visit from my dear parents. 
 Hope I have been preserved in a good degree of circumspec- 
 tion. Feel the need of care that I be not elated with the 
 company of my kind friends who visit me. 
 
 28th. On rising this morning, felt desirous of spending the 
 day rightly. I was sensible that the morning sacrifice has 
 been too much neglected. Some expressions of Deborah 
 Darby's, at Abington meeting, years ago, arose fresh in my 
 remembrance : " Not to let one day pass over without feeling 
 after the Divine presence, and gaining access to the Throne 
 of Grace," or words of like import. Felt desirous of again 
 building up the altar, and renewing my morning devotion with 
 more fervency of spirit. Remembering the many precious 
 seasons I have had in walking over the fields and following the 
 plough, I took a walk, with my mind turned to seek after and 
 wait upon the Lord; was favoured to feel something good 
 hovering near, and trust my heavenly Father has not forsaken 
 me. I was comforted and strengthened, and desired to be 
 preserved in humility and watchfulness. 
 
 29th. Had a very solemn, encouraging meeting ; such an 
 one as I do not remember lately. May I be thankful for the 
 extension of Divine goodness and mercy. 
 
 Eleventh month 1st. — A favourable opportunity this morn- 
 ing for a little retirement was taken up in trifling employ- 
 ment. Perhaps by reason of this neglect, poverty has been 
 much my attendant through the day. In the evening, heard 
 some passages read in S. S.'s diary. She is a little girl here, 
 perhaps thirteen years old; but such remarks as she has 
 penned, in weighty and instructive language, one would sup- 
 pose more like the experience of age than the productions of 
 
Chap. Y.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWN. 107 
 
 a cliild. May Heaven watch over and j^rescrve her through 
 all the vicissitudes of time. 
 
 3d. Experienced an engagement of mind to seek after a 
 renewal of strength. Made a visit to the female teachers to 
 consult on grammar, &c. Found one of them with a book in 
 her hand, in which she pointed out the folloAving passage : "It 
 is not a time for slothful servants ; nor will it do to put that 
 candle which has been lighted in us under a bed or bushel." 
 my soul ! take this as a lesson for thyself ; thou that art 
 too much of a slothful servant, look around thee and see what 
 thou art doing. It is not a time to be loitering or idle, letting 
 the spai-k of Divine light and life remain under a state of 
 lukewarmness and ease ; nor is it a time to be wrapping the 
 talent in a napkin, or hiding it under a bushel. Oh! be 
 aroused from thy supineness and negligence ; lift up thine 
 eyes and look around thee. Great is the work ; much is 
 necessary to be done in thy vineyard, and in thy Father's 
 harvest the faithful laboui'crs are too few. Let the above sen- 
 tence be deeply impressed, and strive to make progress in the 
 great business of life. 
 
 15th. A retrospective view of the scenes of my youth fresh 
 before me. The little shop and turning-lathe where I used to 
 work, and the situation of mind I was then in, with many cir- 
 cumstances that occurred in my younger years, revived in 
 my remembrance ; tending to show how rapidly time passes 
 away, and, alas ! too little advancement made. I am some- 
 times almost ready to wish to return to the plough, consider- 
 ing the many precious seasons I have enjoyed in that favoured 
 situation. 
 
 17th. Experienced living desires after Divine care and pro- 
 tection, with a sweet calm and composure of mind during the 
 forenoon, but through unwatchfulness was discomposed by a 
 trifling circumstance, which deprived me of the same enjoy- 
 ment in the latter part of the day ; but feeling my wound, I 
 was enabled to seek for healing, which I trust has been merci- 
 fully granted. May I learn wisdom by this day's experience, and 
 endeavour always to be girt about with watchful care, looking 
 unto Him Avho is able to protect, support, and strengthen 
 through every difficulty. 
 
108 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1801. 
 
 18tli. May the government of the Prince of Peace more 
 and more spread and prevail in the minds of the children 
 under our care. Though at times gloomy prospects attend on 
 viewing their general conduct, though much levity and vanity 
 prevail among them, yet let me hope that all our labour and 
 care will not be lost. 
 
 23d. Confined, but not very ill, with the measles ; which 
 has been prevailing here to some extent. Had serious and 
 solemn considerations on the state of many thousands, up and 
 down, destitute, afflicted, and suffering for the want of the 
 necessaries of life, while I am so carefully and kindly waited 
 on and attended to. The language of John Woolman often 
 revived in my mind : " How kindly have I been attended to 
 in this time of distress;" and, " How many are spending their 
 time and money in vanity and superfluities, while thousands 
 and tens of thousands want the necessaries of life, who might 
 be relieved by them, and their distresses at such a time as 
 this in some degree softened by the administering of suitable 
 things." 
 
 24th. Had the company of C. Wistar and J, Parrish, who 
 informed us of two remarkable meetings which James Simp- 
 son has lately had in the city, with the captains of vessels, 
 sailors, &c. I was glad to hear that this class of men had 
 been so remembered. May it prove a blessing to them. 
 
 Seated by the fire this evening rather pensive, resigned my- 
 self to meditation. The language to our first parents in the 
 cool of the day arose before me : " Where art thou ?" To 
 me this is a very necessary inquiry. Here, sm-rounded by 
 noise and care from day to day, and week to week, when or 
 where is the cool of the day ? When is the time for retire- 
 ment and meditation ? Must our minds be oppressed with 
 constant care and fatigue, and kept so much on the continued 
 stretch ? Can there be religious improvement without attend- 
 ing to the means — retirement and prayer ? Silent waiting, 
 and feeling after the Divine presence is necessary to the 
 soul's advancement in the great and most important business 
 of life ; and to often examine what progress we are making 
 in this path is an essential work. West-town is a situation in 
 which the mind greatly needs Divine support and wisdom to 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWN. 109 
 
 uphold and direct ; but too little opportunity is aflfordcd of 
 unbending from the cares of the day to seek after it. I fear 
 that I am not progressing in the best sense ; that there is too 
 much that is superficial among us, to which I contribute my 
 share. Oh ! may I more deeply consider these things. 
 
 Twelfth month 3d. — Desirous of spending this day rightly. 
 Much exercised in desire to know the Divine will concerning 
 an important subject that has claimed the attention of my 
 mind for some time past. Desirous to attain a state of 
 resignation, that all in me may be yielded up without reserve 
 into the hands and direction of Him who gave me being, and 
 who certainly will order all things aright. 
 
 4th. Have been for a few days past attempting to study 
 the French grammar, a favourable opportunity offering for my 
 acquiring some knowledge of it. The query arises, Do I 
 know what I am learning it for ? Can I give a sufficient rea- 
 son for spending time in this pursuit ? I feel a care lest it 
 should engross too much of my attention from things of infi- 
 nitely greater importance. Oh, there is need of diligently 
 searching the heart in every movement ; of knowing the 
 motives and principles on which we act. May I not rest 
 satisfied in the pursuit of any thing without knowing the 
 foundation. My time is precious, too precious to be trifled 
 away. 
 
 6th. Some time in the night past, I awoke with the follow- 
 ing text of Scripture fresh in my mind: "Bring ye all the 
 tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in my house, 
 and prove me now herewith ; see if I will not open to you the 
 windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall 
 not be room enough to receive it;" with the awful language, 
 "Ye have robbed God," or withheld these from him. Deep 
 instruction was thus conveyed, with a full conviction that I 
 have been far too deficient in bringing in the tithes and offer- 
 ings due to the Great Author of my being. My desires were 
 renewed that I may be more circumspect, and more earnestly 
 engaged to seek after God, and perform my duty to him day 
 by day ; to feel more gratitude for the blessings of Heaven 
 conferred on me. Oh ! may these impressions be deeply 
 fastened on my mind. 
 
110 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1801. 
 
 9th. Since I have been a resident at this place eight months 
 have passed away, no more to return. The preceding memo- 
 randums in part discover some of the various turnings and 
 exercises of my mind. But what progress am I making in 
 my journey toward the land of rest ? Behold how swiftly 
 time passes away ! May I be excited to "use all diligence to 
 make my calling and election sure." 
 
 13th. Sluch depression and exercise of mind. Tried with 
 the prevalence of a disposition in many of the children that is 
 far from the meekness and humility of Jesus. May the pro- 
 tecting arm of Divine Goodness be near to support in my 
 exercises. 
 
 25th. I think my desires have been fervent through the 
 course of this day that I might be preserved in humility, and 
 abide in the inner courts of His holy temple, whom I wish to 
 serve with unreserved dedication of heart. 
 
 27th. Favoured to-day with the company of Mehetabel 
 Jenkins and her companions at meeting. Thus, one messenger 
 after another, " line upon line, and precept upon precept." 
 Oh ! may we remember and lay it to heart, that all this care 
 and regard of the great Shepherd calls for fruits. 
 
 Sat with the girls when collected in the evening, and had 
 the agreeable and edifying company of Jacob Lindley; who, 
 after the reading was done, appeared in a very affecting 
 and encouraging testimony among them, to the tendering 
 of many minds present. May the impression be lasting, 
 and the ornament of a "meek and quiet spirit," so pa- 
 thetically recommended, be sought after with increasing 
 assiduity. 
 
 28th. In a conference with E. P. on the state of things 
 among us, we were united in sentiment that the burden is too 
 great for the number of teachers, and we propose laying the 
 subject before the committee. Under a feeling of the weight 
 of care and exercise, I believe our situation is too much like 
 that described by John Woolman : "When a person hath 
 charge of too many, and his thoughts and time are so much 
 employed in the outward affairs of his school that he cannot 
 attend to the spirit and conduct of each individual, so as to 
 administer and attend rightly to all in due season, he not only 
 
Chap. Y.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWN. HI 
 
 suffers as to the state of his own mind, but the minds of the 
 children are in danger of suffering also." 
 
 29th. I desire still more earnestly to seek after that teach- 
 able condition of mind represented in Holy Writ by the state 
 of a << little child." My little dedications and feeble exer- 
 tions to draw near to the Fountain of Life and wait on him 
 have been blessed, so that I feel a renewed encouragement to 
 press forward, notwithstanding the many difficulties that attend 
 my situation here, and the little time I have to devote to 
 retirement. 
 
 First month 1st, 1802, — Felt abundant weakness and 
 poverty. Have had some thoughts of going to Philadelphia, 
 and so on to Byberry to-day, but was discouraged and put it 
 off; aftei'ward regretted I had not gone. Feel the need of 
 relaxation. 
 
 7th. Much tried in meeting, on account of a restless dis- 
 position among the boys, evincing a great degree of thought- 
 lessness and unconcernedness about the important business of 
 performing Divine worship in spirit and in truth. Oh the light- 
 ness and unsteadiness of many ! and yet, what more can we 
 say to them than has already been said to impress on their 
 minds the necessity of stillness. May Heaven be gracious, 
 and Divine visitations be renewed to their souls, was the fer- 
 vent desire of my mind for them this day. 
 
 The same restless, unsettled disposition prevailed among 
 them at table during silence. Expressed the feelings of my 
 mind a little to them in the gallery after dinner. J. B. also 
 spoke very feelingly on the subject of gratitude. A general 
 stillness prevailed, and I hope the opportunity was not lost or 
 improper. 
 
 18th. The following expressions of John Woolman occurred 
 to my mind, and instructively occupied it for some time this 
 morning: "The fear of man brings a snare; by halting in 
 our duty, and giving back in the time of trial, our hands grow 
 weaker, and our ears dull of hearing as to the language of the 
 true Shepherd ; and thus at length, when we look at the way of 
 the righteous, it seems as if it was not for us to follow them." 
 
112 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1802. 
 
 my soul ! beliold here a striking lesson of deep instruction. 
 Thou hast felt desires, strong desires, of following the way of 
 the righteous and becoming of their number ; but why art 
 thou so behindhand ? Behold the reason in the above lively 
 description. 
 
 23d. With a view of making a visit to my relations at By- 
 berry, I left West-town and proceeded on my way to Philadel- 
 phia, in an inward comfortable state of mind. Separated from 
 the noise and care to which I have been accustomed, I felt 
 the faculties of my mind expand as a bow unbent, and my 
 meditations were turned on various subjects. Arrived in the 
 city near sunset, stayed a short time in attending to some tem- 
 poral business, and proceeded on to N. Harper's, at Frank- 
 ford, where I lodged. Next morning, set off early, and 
 reached my native home a little before meeting-time, very 
 unexpectedly to my parents and family. Found them all well ; 
 for which, and the many mercies and favours conferred on me, 
 
 1 wish to be thankful. Had a very comfortable, refreshing 
 meeting with my old friends, and felt a renewed stream of 
 love and affection flowing toward them. In the afternoon 
 was exercised on account of the departure from plainness and 
 simplicity in apparel manifest among several young people 
 here. When there is a taking of liberty in dress and imitating 
 the world's fashions and ways, it evinces that the mind is soar- 
 ing above the pure witness and that state of humility and low- 
 liness of mind which the gospel leads into. 
 
 SeveraKyoung men of my former acquaintance came to my 
 father's to see me, whose company was acceptable, but my mind 
 became more shut up toward evening, and the channels of 
 social converse considerably closed ; found it safest to keep 
 inward and quiet, and trust I have been measurably preserved 
 in watchful circumspection during this day. 
 
 Early next morning my mother was sent for to brother J.'s, 
 on account of the illness of his child, whither I went soon after 
 breakfast, and found the innocent babe breathing its last. 
 Happy babe ! so soon released from this world of trouble and 
 danger ; this thorny wilderness and land of sorrows : 
 
 " She, happy innocent, retires to rest. 
 Tastes but the cup of sorrow, and is West." 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWN. 113 
 
 Yet even to part with innocent babes is a trial to surviving 
 relations. The tender parents feel the stroke when the ties 
 of nature and affection are broken asunder by the cold hand 
 of death ; and increasingly so when the warning by sickness is 
 short — when the child is suddenly removed on whom perhaps 
 they had placed too much affection. 
 
 My mind was dipped into sympathy with my dear brother 
 and sister in this unexpected trial ; and as wo sat silent for 
 some time after the little infant ceased to breathe, I felt a 
 few words arise to express to them on the solemn occasion, 
 but through diffidence put off and omitted to mention what had 
 thus flowed through my mind. On calling again the next day 
 to sit with them in sympathy, felt calm, inward, and weighty 
 in spirit. The language again revived toward them, but 
 through diffidence was not uttered. 
 
 27th. In going with one of my younger brothers to attend 
 the funeral, he informed me of a society composed of several 
 boys, or youth, who are under age, held once a week, in which 
 they debate on various questions, &c. On hearing it, some 
 unpleasant sensations and fears were excited, but my mind 
 being inward and retired, I said little to him then on the sub- 
 ject. As these boys are all so young, I apprehend there is 
 danger of their reaching or meddling with matters too high 
 for them, and of their being led out of the meekness and 
 humility of the cross of Christ, into elevated notions of them- 
 selves, and the pursuit of imaginary good through false rea- 
 sonings, tending to darken their understandings, and to pro- 
 duce unprofitable sentiments and erroneous opinions of things. 
 This disposition for following fashions, which I have painfully 
 observed in some of them, will, I fear, be strengthened by their 
 thus associating, and may proceed to much greater lengths, to 
 the wounding and grief of their parents and friends. I think 
 I have renewedly seen the danger of forming such societies, 
 though I have no doubt that if a number of persons of experi- 
 ence, and establishment in religious principles, were to meet 
 together for the purpose of useful improvement in literature, 
 agriculture, economy, or other necessary things, they might 
 be very helpful to one another. But these debating societies 
 have of late become so numerous in various parts of the coun- 
 
114 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1802. 
 
 try, and the minds of many youth and others thereby drawn 
 into doubtful disputations, very unfavourable either to reli- 
 gion or morality, that it appears to me high time to discou- 
 rage and suppi'ess them. Infidelity and libertinism mournfully 
 prevail in our land. The minds of many in our society, I 
 fear, are tinctured with deistical notions. It behooves us to 
 labour to "dwell alone," and "not mingle with the people." 
 "To thy tent, Israel." 
 
 Solemnity attended my mind when I entered my brother's 
 house, where a number of persons were met to accompany the 
 corpse to the burial. Again I felt something arising to speak, 
 but put it off until the coffin was closed, and it Avas time for 
 the company to move ; when, fearing the consequence of "with- 
 holding more than was meet," as I stood by the coffin of the 
 dear little infant, in much fear, and under a weighty solemn 
 frame of mind, I opened my mouth and expressed in much 
 brokenness what arose before me. As I spoke, the people 
 came into the room and about the door, and the communication 
 closed with a call to us, the survivors, to use all diligence in 
 making a timely preparation for death. Peace of mind fol- 
 lowed this little dedication. Thus have I ventured to appear 
 in a more public manner in the great work. People must 
 judge and speak as they choose of me ; I believe self has 
 not been predominant in this action. To Him I leave it who 
 can bless or blast at his pleasure, and who only has a right to 
 my whole heart and service. May all be resigned to Him. 
 After this attended the corpse to the grave, and then went 
 into monthly meeting, where I sat in much inward stillness and 
 quietude, Divine love being evidently near. Blessed be his 
 name. 
 
 28th. Spent most of the morning at Hannah Yarnal's, in 
 an instructive conversation with her and Ruth Cadwallader, 
 wherein was felt the circumscribing influence of Truth. 
 
 29th. Much shut up from familiar conversation ; perhaps 
 safest and best to feel so at times. Such diflFerent dispensations 
 or states of feeling, if rightly improved, may be among our 
 most profitable probations. The mind reverts within itself, 
 when outward enjoyments fail ; then it learns lessons of wis- 
 dom, if teachable as a "little child." 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWX. 115 
 
 Second month 1st. — Took leave affectionately of my near and 
 dear connections, and -went to Philadelphia. Attended the 
 quarterly meeting there. Next morning visited Emmor Kim- 
 ber's school to satisfaction. Attended to some business mat- 
 ters, and set out for West-town, where I arrived in the even- 
 ing and found our large family well, to my rejoicing. 
 
 5th. The business of the day has again closed, its cares a 
 little laid aside, and the silent shades of evening have again 
 stretched over us. Now, enjoying a little quietude, it is good 
 for us to reflect, and take a serious retrospect of the employ- 
 ments and objects that have engrossed our attention since Ave 
 rose in the morning. How has this added day been improved ? 
 is an important query that should engage our attention on the 
 evening of every day. What answer canst thou give to the 
 solemn interrogation, my soul ? Ah ! poor, unworthy me, 
 far too little exertion has been used to employ the time in that 
 fervency of spirit queried after. I acknowledge the necessity 
 and rectitude of dwelling in such a state of watchful circum- 
 spection and earnest aspiration after a life of purity and holi- 
 ness ; but, alas ! I daily fall short of it. Some feeble desires 
 after this state were witnessed this morning, but for want of 
 more depth, how soon were they swept away, and but little 
 advancement or strength experienced. Poverty of spirit has 
 been my portion, and the sweet descending of heavenly dew 
 has not been witnessed, so as to bring the soul into a holy 
 calm, like sitting under my own vine and fig-tree, where none 
 can make afraid. 
 
 7th. Arose this morning rather in a hurry. Guard against 
 this. Let the mind be calm and unruffled in the morning, lest 
 the day may be spent in disorder. It is good to draw near to 
 the Author of light as soon as we awake, in order to feel after his 
 presence, and to know our minds stayed on him. Through the 
 day my mind became unwatchful, and feeling my weakness, I 
 was engaged to seek for more stability, which has been merci- 
 fully granted. In this is a lesson of encouragement ; when 
 we find ourselves exposed to temptation, immediately retire to 
 the place of safety. 
 
 9th. Embraced an opportunity to attend Concord quarterly 
 meeting. Set out alone, and had an agreeable walk thith3r. 
 
116 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1802. 
 
 riicliard Mott, John Hall, Melietabel Jenkins and her com- 
 panion, "wifli several other strangers, attended, and their com- 
 pany and labours were truly acceptable and edifying. 
 
 11th. A comfortable meeting, at which had the company of 
 John Grant and "William Satterthwaite. A day of various pro- 
 bations ; have cause to thank God and take courage, in that 
 my feeble exertions and desires to be watchful and circumspect 
 have not been lost. 
 
 12th. In meditating on the situation of some of the eminent 
 ministers among us, my mind was feelingly impressed with a 
 sense of the great danger they are in, arising from even the 
 love and tenderness of their friends, and the admiration and 
 applause of others. If they should not abide in a state of 
 inward watchfulness and deep feeling, they must lose that 
 humility Avhich is their ornament and their safety. May the 
 Lord Almighty guard and preserve them in the hollow of his 
 holy hand. 
 
 14th. Abased and humbled under a sense of my unworthiness 
 and manifold infirmities. At length, felt resigned and willing 
 to be any thing or nothing. Evening spent in retirement. - 
 Some serious impressions revived as though it may be right 
 for me to look toward leaving West-town ere long ; feel no 
 anxiety about it, only to be rightly and clearly directed in re- 
 gard to it. Had a comfortable opportunity in a visit to our 
 dear exercised nurse, E. Porter. 
 
 21st. A pleasant morning walk, though in much poverty of 
 spirit. Favoured with an enlarged contemplation on the 
 scenes around me. The stillness of the morning — the north- 
 ward flight of crows — the singing of larks — the slender notes 
 of two robins, now and then chirping in the bushes — the more 
 lively songs, or twittering, of blue-birds — the various little in- 
 sects flying in the air — the sound of a distant cow-bell — the 
 varied landscape — woods and groves stripped of their foliage, 
 as if waiting the approach of spring to renovate and beautify 
 them with leaves and blossoms — the stillness of the atmosphere, 
 evidenced by the upright columns of smoke issuing from the 
 chimnevs of neighbourino; houses to be seen on distant hills, 
 whose inmates are entirely unknown to me, notwithstanding a 
 residence of upward of ten months so near them ; reflections 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWN. 117 
 
 on the enjoyments of a rural life, in quietude and peace ; 
 abundant occupation and amusement for the attentive mind 
 among the works of nature ; then West-town edifice came in 
 view, with all its inhabitants ; silence all around the stately 
 mansion while the children are at breakfast ; reflections on the 
 care of the teachers over them to preserve order and decorum ; 
 meditations diverted by the noise of the children on coming up 
 from breakfast. Walked slowly toward the house ; offered up 
 my petitions for help and preservation, and felt a renewal of 
 strength. In the evening sat alone, and felt my nothingness 
 and unworthiness, as though I could say, "I am a worm, and 
 no man." 
 
 22d. Notwithstanding yesterday was mild and pleasant, and 
 looked as if spring were approaching, yet to-day is cold and 
 stormy. As is the weather, so is human life, a changeable 
 scene of probation. My mind has been turned toward the 
 poor, in feelings of sympathy with many of them, under a con- 
 sideration of their exposure to the inclemencies of the weather, 
 and their other difliculties and hardships through life. It 
 softens the heart to feel for others' woes and afilictions, even 
 when we cannot relieve them. In this sheltered mansion we 
 feel little of the tumult of the natural elements. Whether we 
 rightly number our blessings and privileges requires daily and 
 deep consideration. 
 
 Third month 3d. — Have renewed occasion to believe that a 
 superficial friendship is unfavourable to our growth in reli- 
 gion, and that from a fear of giving ofience, there is danger of 
 conniving at wrong things, andthus the judgment may become 
 perverted. Oh may I learn to be firm, be faithful, whatever 
 may be the issue, and however there may seem a danger of 
 losing the esteem of those who love to hear only smooth things. 
 
 4th. Meeting rather laborious. Oh, how many things there 
 are to obstruct the soul's ascending in feeling aspiration to the 
 Fountain of all good. How many roving thoughts and wan- 
 dering imaginations intrude upon the mind ! How fettered to 
 the fading objects of time and sense ! I desire to know self 
 so entirely subdued, that in my silent waiting all the faculties 
 and powers of my mind may be absorbed in living adoration 
 and awful prostration of soul before my God ; the world and 
 
118 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1802. 
 
 nil its pleasing scenes, enticing amusements and concerns be- 
 ing under foot. 
 
 14tli. Poverty and strippedness my lot througli most of the 
 day, and so great my weakness that things comparable to the 
 grasshopper seemed a burden, which I felt no strength to re- 
 move. In the evening the following lines arose in my mind, 
 with some feeling : 
 
 " Nor seek a greater joy, 
 Yet patient be in suifering ; in seasons of distress. 
 When Heaven seems brass, and earth with iron bars 
 Withholds her cheering goodliness from thee, 
 Then, with a calm, resigned mind give up ; 
 Freely surrender what thou callest thine ; 
 No longer rest on Jordan's banks, but with 
 Stability step in, and learn to know 
 That stones there are, which for memorials serve." 
 
 15th. Some of the days of my youth, the time of my 
 "espousals," were brought fresh to my remembrance this 
 day, when my soul could not rest satisfied without knowing 
 access by prayer to the Father of Mercies. How fervent 
 were my morning devotions ! How earnest my evening aspi- 
 rations ! Then what uneasiness I felt, if a day or a morning 
 passed over and my devotion not performed, my soul not 
 raised in gratitude and prayer to the God of my life ! Those 
 were days of improvement and groAvth in substantial religion. 
 But, ah ! how many have since passed without this living exer- 
 cise ; without feeling sensible access to the throne of Grace ! 
 Blush and be humbled, my soul, at this view of thyself in 
 mercy granted. No marvel that thou art poor and dwarfish, 
 when so much lukewarmness has prevailed. Bather wonder 
 that the loving-kindness of Omnipotence has been so long 
 extended, and so mercifully Avatched over thee. And yet, 
 (oh, unutterable love !) if thou wilt take diligent heed to thy 
 ways, he will again be a light to thy feet and a lamp to thy path, 
 and Avill grant thee to partake of the joys of his salvation. 
 
 17th. Much exercised. Oh, for patience and resignation ! 
 In times of weakness and distress, it is good to be still and 
 wait patiently for the arising of that light which can animate 
 and strengthen the drooping soul. 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWN. 119 
 
 18tli. Was favoured Avith a sweet, heavenly, and refreshing 
 meeting, in which my strength was renewed and I was com- 
 forted in the Lord. Near the usual time of closing meeting 
 I felt a few words arise in my mind, with a sense of its being 
 required of me to express them. I hesitated, and began to 
 reason ; but the evidence was too strong to be reasoned away. 
 I had, but a little before, resigned myself and my all to the 
 Divine disposal — but now, when put to the test, ah ! my weak, 
 unstable, and rebellious heart, how thou givest back. The 
 cross ! the cross ! and to appear as a fool in the way ! While 
 I thus hesitated and withheld, wishing to be excused from a 
 service so trying, the language saluted my mind, "Whatso- 
 ever thine hand findeth to do, do it with thy might." But, 
 oh ! my disobedience, my ingratitude, after such unmerited 
 favours ! I still put oif and neglected the intimation till meet- 
 ing closed. Weakness and remorse followed ; condemnation 
 seized me, and the Divine presence was vailed from me. I 
 have no excuse — can plead nothing in palliation of my diso- 
 bedience. So small a service required, and yet my stubborn, 
 ungrateful soul would not obey ! — and why ? Because re- 
 quired in a more singular and humiliating manner than self 
 was pleased with. In my distress I have not confidence to 
 ask forgiveness. Chasten me, my- God ! in thy mercy and 
 long forbearance, and bring my rebellious heart under judg- 
 ment, if it please thee, until every thing in me yield itself up 
 into thy hands without reserve, to be formed and used agree- 
 ably to thy holy will ! Sadness and dejection have been the 
 attendants of my mind through the ensuing part of the day ; 
 yet will I strive to seek for repentance, and hope in the unut- 
 terable love and mercy of the dear Redeemer toward sinners. 
 
 19th. Feeling an anxiety on account of my parents, who 
 have lately been ill with the measles, I set off this morning 
 from West-town, by stage, in order to visit them. My mind 
 still clothed with sadness and conviction for yesterday's omis- 
 sion and disobedience, yet favoured with a good degree of 
 inwardness ; and being thus separated from my accustomed 
 cares, the opening scenes of nature, and the varied landscapes 
 with the different objects that were presented to my view, 
 had a soothing effect ; and through Divine Love, calmed the 
 
120 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1802, 
 
 ruffling emotions of my soul into tranquillity and stillness. 
 Whilst riding, -with my mind turned toward the everlasting 
 Fountain of mercy and goodness, I trust in humility and con- 
 trition, the comfortable sensation impressed me that there was 
 yet mercy in Heaven, notwithstanding my ingratitude and dis- 
 obedience. After which, I was favoured with an enlargement 
 in Divine meditation and instructive contemplation on the vary- 
 ing scenes that surrounded me ; and the feelings and comfort 
 I realized, I have no language adequate to describe. 
 
 20th, In pursuing part of my journey homeward, on foot, 
 called to see a poor woman who was formerly one of my 
 neighbours, now left a widow with small children. She ac- 
 cepted the visit kindly, and I have no cause to regret the 
 opportunity. Feel, my soul, and sympathize with the poor, 
 who are struggling along under great difficulties and hardships 
 from which thou art exempt ! Proceeding on my way across 
 the country I enjoyed an agreeable walk, being in a favoured 
 state of mind. The remembrance of West-town was frequently 
 in my mind ; and had I been released from there, I thought I 
 could have thus travelled through the country visiting the 
 poor, and labouring for the good of my fellow-creatures, with- 
 out much anxiety what was to become of me as to temporal 
 things. 
 
 On my way, passed by the place where I formerly went to 
 school to study Latin, &c. The remembrance of former 
 scenes occurred fresh to my mind, with a little retrospection 
 of my various allotments and different situations since. Ah ! 
 how swiftly does time glide ! Nine years have elapsed since 
 I was a scholar here ; and to look back, how short the time 
 appears. Thus the life of man passes swiftly away, never 
 to return. May we so wisely number our days, as that the 
 retrospection of them may be satisfactory, and afford a well- 
 grounded assurance that we have not lived in vain. 
 
 After calling on several of my friends as I passed their 
 habitations, I reached my father's in the evening, Avhen I 
 found them tolerably recovered from the measles ; and a mu- 
 tual gladness was felt at our meeting. 
 
 22d. Took leave of my father's family and set off for West- 
 town, in company with my kind friend, J. Walton, where we 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWN. 121 
 
 arrived toward evening, and I was glad to find the family all 
 well. Was favoured to feel a good degree of composure and 
 stability of mind through this day. 
 
 28th. Reduced to a state of very great weakness and even 
 anguish of mind. All sense of the Divine Presence seemed 
 withdrawn, and my soul left empty and poor. Tried to be 
 still and patient under the exercises attendant. May the pre- 
 sent dispensation, though trying, have its proper effect until 
 the dross is removed. 
 
 Fourth month 4th. — Had the acceptable company, at meet- 
 ing, of John Hunt and wife from Darby ; and a sympathetic, 
 encouraging communication from the latter. Also, in the 
 afternoon meeting, had a short, but very pertinent and ac- 
 ceptable communication from J. Baldwin's father. Have 
 apprehended for a few days past that my service hei'e is 
 neaxdy done, and that it will be proper before long to offer 
 my resignation. I wish to be rightly directed and to move in 
 the right time. 
 
 6th. Inward watchfulness and stayedness of mind more 
 wanting. I seem too much in the outward court, and my 
 spiritual strength rather decreasing. Oh ! this of knowing 
 the mind properly circumscribed within the holy limits of 
 Truth, at all times, how desirable ! But trials are necessar3^ 
 If we could always feel ourselves covered as with an impene- 
 trable shield, we should not be qualified to sympathize with 
 the weak ; we should not know the Christian warfare and the 
 conflicts that are necessary for our furtherance and proving. 
 May we then labour for patience and stability, and to know 
 our sole dependence to be on Him Avho is mighty to save and 
 able to deliver. 
 
 8th. Had, this evening, a meeting of the teachers with 
 Elihu Pickering, who expects to leave to-morrow. It was 
 a time to be remembered by some of us. In an opportu- 
 nity with the boys in the gallery, though considerably indis- 
 posed, he imparted very affectionate counsel ; and mentioned 
 that tlie feelings of his mind on the occasion were not to be 
 described. May he be rewarded for his care and earnest con- 
 cern for the welfare of this institution, and his faithful labours 
 amon<r us. 
 
122 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1802. 
 
 11th. Had a comfortable season of retirement in the even- 
 ing, and an edifying opportunity with dear J. B. He was 
 very open and conversable, and among other things of like 
 nature, mentioned a very desirable state of mind which he 
 had much laboured after, and, I believe, has much attained ; 
 that of getting into the closet of devotion, and shutting the 
 door against all intruding cares and ruffling passions ; and 
 when all obstructing things are shut out, and the mind cen- 
 tred in holy calmness and quietude, the door of prayer is 
 opened. May we strive to dwell daily in this " closet of de- 
 votion," as a safe hiding-place. 
 
 loth. Had the company of Geo. Churchman and some other 
 friends at meeting this morning. To me rather a dull labo- 
 rious meeting. my dwarfishness, want of animation and 
 ardency of soul, in my approaches before God. As the hart 
 panteth after the water-brooks, cause my soul to pant after 
 thee, my God ! 
 
 Great indeed is the need of watchfulness, and a strict 
 examination and impartial inquiry into the state of our minds 
 from day to day, so prone are we to mingle with the "dross 
 of earth" — so inclined to dwell at ease, and rest in a kind of 
 belief that we are doing pretty well, that we are not going 
 backward. But oh, the need of being "emptied from vessel 
 to vessel," and experiencing the holy fire to be always burning 
 on the altar of our hearts ! Labour after it more and more, 
 my soul ! for know assuredly the time is coming wherein 
 thy foundation will be tried. 
 
 21st. Friends in attendance at the Yearly Meeting often in 
 my remembrance. May Divine love and wisdom attend them. 
 
 From every varied exercise and trial, may I learn the 
 important lesson of patience and resignation — so shall these 
 "light afflictions" tend to my furtherance in the great busi- 
 ness of life. 
 
 28th. sweet humility, how desirable ! May I labour 
 after it with more earnest assiduity, and not rest satisfied 
 with any thing short thereof. But, my leanness ! my want 
 of spiritual fervency in the pursuit of holiness and peace. 
 How many trifling things there are to amuse and draw us aside. 
 Wait and watch, my soul. 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWN. 123 
 
 29t]i. There is great need of patience and stability in the 
 government of chiklren, lest the mind become agitated or 
 soured by trifling occurrences. Preserve calmness of spirit, 
 and act not in thy own will. Every like produces its like. 
 Let then the fruits of Divine Love appear in thy conduct — 
 and often remember the words of the sweet Psalmist of Israel, 
 "He that ruleth over men, (and consequently over children,) 
 should be just, ruling in the fear of God." 
 
 Fifth month 2d. — Sat down in meeting under great mental 
 poverty, feelingly sensible of my weakness and inability to 
 do any good. Endeavoured to be still and look for help and 
 strength to the great Author of all good, and after some time 
 was favoured to feel of his Divine love moving in my heart 
 toward the children, and a gentle flow of language passed 
 through my mind, which I almost wished they had, but felt 
 no injunction to express it. During the day have been 
 thoughtful and endeavouring to improve in watchfulness, so 
 as to feel more of the spirituality of religion. 
 
 5tli. Through attention to the business of the day and the 
 necessary cares and concerns of my station, my mind often 
 becomes much relaxed, and I feel the necessity to devote ray 
 leisure time in seeking for a renewal of strength. Oh ! that I 
 may be so subjectly given up in all things, as to let no busi- 
 ness or amusement hinder me from the most scrupulous atten- 
 tion to the culture and improvement of that immortal part 
 which is never to have an end, 
 
 " But must roll on for ages, when the sun, 
 Fair transitory creature of a day, 
 Is lost in night." 
 
 After dinner, finding I had need of spiritual refreshment, 
 took a solitary walk, and had a favoured season. Oh ! how 
 comfortable to feel at times that, though surrounded with in- 
 numerable weaknesses and infirmities, we are not forsaken. 
 
 9th. A favoured season this morning, and a precious in- 
 structive illumination on the situation of the Israelites, when 
 encompassed by a mountain on each side, the Red Sea before 
 them, and the Egyptian host behind them — the necessity of 
 strictly adhering to the word of command, Be still, when 
 under such complicated difficulties; but as we look unto our 
 
124 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1802. 
 
 Moses, and let the Captain of our Salvation figlit for us, we 
 shall experience a way opened where the eye of human reason 
 could see no way, yea, we shall see the Red Sea divided, and 
 a path made through the mighty deep. But attempt not to 
 move or pass through till the command is given. Speak unto 
 my people, that they go forward, then shalt thou behold his 
 wonders in the deep, and witness the pillar of fire to go before 
 thee and protect thee from all thy enemies, whom thou shalt 
 see, as the Egyptian host when the morning appeared, dead 
 upon the seashore. Oh ! therefore, thou exercised traveller Zion- 
 ward, keep in the patience — eye thy Moses — and though thou 
 mayest have to pass through these deep probations as in the 
 night-season, yet confide in thy God, who will never leave nor 
 forsake his humble depending children ; and when the morn- 
 ing again appears, thou shalt have to sing his praise on the 
 banks of deliverance, and magnify that arm of Omnipotent 
 power which hath done great things for thee, yea marvellous 
 things. Yet rest not here, thou must journey on through the 
 wilderness toward the Canaan of rest ; and oh ! take heed, that 
 thou forget not His works, (who hath thus signally redeemed 
 thee,) and murmur not against him. Trials thou must pass 
 through. 'Tis the alone way to the kingdom. Be patient 
 and resigned under them, and though thou mayest have to pass 
 through the desert for three days and find no water, yet faint 
 not nor complain, thy God is all-sufiicient to carry thee through 
 and to supply every exigence that thy situation requires. 
 Trust in him and thou shalt witness his gracious promise 
 verified: "When the poor and needy seek water and there is 
 none, and their soul faileth for thirst, I the Lord will hear 
 them ; I the God of Jacob will not forsake them. I will open 
 rivers in high places and fountains in the midst of the valleys ; 
 that I may give drink to my people, my chosen." Be 
 encouraged to persevere ; fret not, nor desire again the flesh- 
 pots of Egypt. Prolong not thy stay in the wilderness by 
 a murmuring disposition, but endure all these trials and afflictive 
 dispensations with holy patience and resignation, firmly rely- 
 ing on thy God for succour and support, Avho will lay upon 
 thee no greater burden than thou art able to bear, and Avho 
 will assm-edly bring thee into the promised land, if thou art 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWN. 125 
 
 faithful unto him. Beware that thou provoke not the Holy 
 One of Israel, nor grieve him in the desert ; tempt not his 
 servant to smite the Rock, before the command is given ; be 
 not impatient ; lust not after the flesh to eat : he will feed 
 thee with manna, he will administer whatever thy necessities 
 require, — therefore wait patiently for him, and act not in thy 
 own will. Let him carry on his own work in thy heart, and 
 be thou as the passive clay in the hand of the potter. So 
 shalt thou experience a gradual progression in the great work 
 of regeneration, so shalt thou at length witness a full emanci- 
 pation from the bondage of sin and iniquity, and shalt know 
 that thy Redeemer liveth, to whom be ascribed all honour, 
 glory, and renown, now and for evermore. 
 
 11th. The mind requires much attention. How apt it is to 
 be carried away by the things of time, to be scattered by a 
 variety of external objects and amusements. Too little of 
 that establishment experienced by me this morning which is 
 necessary to a Christian's strength. Concluded to go to Con- 
 cord quarterly meeting ; considerably hurried in making ready 
 and going there ; the effects whereof, combined with too much 
 lukewarmness, were painfully experienced in a drowsy, dull 
 meeting. Felt mortified and reduced to a sense of my utter in- 
 ability of myself to make one step in the heavenly path, or 
 extricate myself from the numerous weaknesses which encom- 
 pass me. Sought for help that this "thorn in the flesh," this 
 drowsy inanimate disposition, when assembled for the purpose 
 of Divine worship, might be removed. Felt much abased in a 
 sense of my condition, and had a humiliating walk home, yet 
 was glad I was at the meeting. 
 
 loth. All nature is now reanimated by the warmth of 
 spring; the opening leaves beautify the groves, and the 
 woods thicken with the expanding foliage ; the serenity of 
 the sky, the verdure of the landscape, and the melodious 
 notes of the feathered songsters, warbling praise to their great 
 Creator, with the variety of beauty which the season unfolds 
 to our view, furnish abundant themes for contemplation. But, 
 my soul ! why art thou so languid and inanimate ? Why so 
 dejected amidst all these reviving scenes ? 
 
 16th. Serious considerations excited by reading of the cruel 
 
126 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1802. 
 
 persecutions wliicli our predecessors in the truth suffered, and 
 their invincible constancy and perseverance under them. Ah I 
 how few in this our day, who profess the same principles, would 
 stand their ground if such suffering times should be again 
 permitted. Oh ! how great is the debt of gratitude for the 
 invaluable blessing of liberty of conscience, and the free ex- 
 ercise of religious Avorship. How necessary often to consider 
 it, and in reading the lives, doctrines, patient sufferings, and 
 glorious deaths of the primitive followers of Jesus, and of our 
 forefathers in the truth, to have the pure mind in us stirred 
 up by way of remembrance, that Ave may press after that 
 holiness of life and ardency of Divine love that many of them 
 attained to and lived in. 
 
 Although the Christian traveller may often have deep bap- 
 tisms to pass through, and times of gloominess and discour- 
 agement, resembling a dreary Avilderness where no pleasant 
 voice is heard, and no cheering springs are found ; yet, let 
 him not faint in this tribulated path, but remember that his 
 every sigh is numbered, and all his tears are treasured ; and 
 that however trials and afflictions may be permitted, as they 
 are patiently endured they will tend to a furtherance in the 
 great object of life, and will assuredly "yield the peaceable 
 fruit of righteousness to them that are rightly exercised 
 thereby." 
 
 17th. A day of considerable trial and exercise. Felt this 
 evening a little as a calm after a storm, my patience having 
 been much tried, and my mind several times unpleasantly 
 agitated ; but, on sitting down with the boys, when collected 
 this evening, was unexpectedly favoured with a very comfort- 
 able season of quiet. I do not remember a time when such a 
 remarkable stillness and solemnity have been felt and observed 
 among them as for a considerable time this evening ; and that 
 without any toiling interference of mine. My soul was im- 
 pressed with humble gratitude for the favour. 
 
 25th. The poor, scattered up and down, much the subject 
 of my thoughts to-day. How various are the situations and 
 circumstances of mankind ! While some are floating in wealth 
 and affluence, pleasing themselves with a variety of amuse- 
 ments and sensual gratifications, indulging themselves in 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWN. 127 
 
 luxury and idleness, and abusing the good things of Provi- 
 dence, others, their fellow-creatures, are groaning under 
 poverty and distress, destitute of the means of comfortable 
 subsistence, and dragging out a life of wretchedness in ob- 
 scurity, ignorance, and sorrow. Many are the cries of the 
 poor and the groans of the oppressed and needy, unheard or 
 unregarded by those who are furnished with the means of alle- 
 viating their miseries. Oh ! how little the wealthy appear to 
 consider the poor or administer to their necessities. But yet 
 there are a noble few who attend to the dictates of humanity, 
 who sympathize with their fellow-creatures in their distress, 
 and devote their time and s-ubstance to alleviate their suf- 
 ferings. Among these stand in high rank the societies of 
 young women for the relief of the poor ; with whose object I 
 feelingly unite, and greatly wish their encouragement and 
 perseverance therein. If I could convey to them the lan- 
 guage of my heart, it would be a little on this wise : Go on, 
 ye friends of mankind, whose hearts can feel the woes of 
 others, whose minds can sympathize with the afflicted, and 
 drop the tear of commiseration for the distresses and suffer- 
 ings of your fellow-creatures. Be encouraged in the arduous 
 engagement, and faint not nor grow weary, for your reward is 
 sure ; your gracious Redeemer regards your labours with an eye 
 of appi'obation : "Forasmuch as ye have done it to one of the 
 least of these, ye have done it unto me." Then may you be ani- 
 mated and strengthened in humility of heart to devote your 
 time and substance to so good a purpose ; and may peace and 
 Divine consolation attend and support you under trials and 
 difficulties, and the blessing of Heaven rest on your labours 
 for the temporal and spiritual help and comfort of those who 
 may be the objects of your sympathetic care. 
 
 29th. A meditative walk after dinner, under considerable 
 exercise of mind on several accounts. Oh ! for the Divine 
 consolations of Jesus ; that he would direct me aright through 
 the various trials and difficulties attendant on this probationary 
 state ; and no doubt he will direct aright if there be a diligent 
 waiting and attention to his voice in the secret of the soul I 
 In patient stability let this be my centre. 
 
 30th. Felt much stripped this morning. Visible things 
 
128 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1802. 
 
 yield no comfort ; and yet the fountain seems shut up and tlie 
 spring sealed. May I be patient, and learn to put my whole 
 trust and dependence on God ; no doubt he graciously intends 
 my further refinement in these seasons of weakness and 
 stripping. 
 
 31st. Experienced a good degree of preservation. How 
 necessary at all times to dwell so deep and inward as to take 
 no liberties, even in lawful things, without feeling the limita- 
 tions of the pure Spirit of Truth. Then indeed may we enjoy 
 the things of this life in a right manner, and rejoice in the 
 condescending goodness of our God therein. 
 
 Sixth month 2d. — Much tried in morning school, and got 
 into too much of a sour or peevish disposition ; but the good 
 Remembrancer being near I was made sensible of my situation, 
 and after some close labour was favoured to feel his softening 
 love diffused through my heart. Enjoyed a comfortable state 
 of mind, and at the close of school felt a motion to express a 
 few words to the children on the great end and business of 
 life, and the advantages we might derive from frequent pauses 
 of silence. Increase of strength and peace resulted from this 
 little dedication. 
 
 4th. The evening spent principally in attention to astro- 
 nomy. May the wonders of nature, and the evident display 
 of Almighty power, wisdom, and goodness therein, make deep 
 and profitable impressions on my mind ; that so, when there 
 is a liberty felt in the holy limitations of Truth to attend to 
 such studies or amusements, they may be productive of solid 
 improvement, and tend to expand the mind in humble, reverent 
 adoration of the Crreat First Cause. 
 
 9th. Discouragements abound ; spirit exercised and pressed 
 down as a cart with sheaves. The language of last evening 
 much the companion of my mind : "Who is sufiicient for these 
 things?" Desirous of a private opportunity with the com- 
 mittee, who are here, but no opening has presented. Have 
 strong thoughts of resigning my station and leaving this scene 
 of difficulties and cares. Hope the right time is near at hand ; 
 still I desire patience and resignation. 
 
 10th. Had the acceptable company of John Cox at meeting 
 to-day, who appeared in a lively, weighty, and edifying testi- 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY AT WEST-TOWN. 129 
 
 mony among us, principally addressed to the children, yet 
 expressive of deep sympathy and fellow feeling with the care- 
 takers, and all the A^arious branches of this large family. 
 
 I do not think that any human exertions can effect the work 
 of grace, or produce a renovation in the hearts of children, 
 any more than our labours can cause the corn to grow or the 
 earth to yield her fruit ; although in these, as well as other 
 things, I have no doubt " the effectual fervent prayer of the 
 righteous may avail much," yet, as in the outward, unless the 
 briers, thorns, and rubbish be cleared out, and the soil reduced 
 to a proper condition for the reception of the seed, we can 
 have no rational hope that the seed will grow and flourish, 
 even though blessed with " sunshine, rain, and morning dew:" 
 so in the inward, unless the ground of the heart be prepared, 
 the corrupt inclinations mortified and slain, and the will 
 brought into obedience, we have no more cause to expect the 
 seeds of grace to grow and flourish in the mind. Now, the 
 great object in the education of children to me appears to be 
 the reduction and subjection of their wills, and directing them 
 to an inward principle of virtue in themselves, by which to 
 regulate all their conduct, words, and actions. Where mild 
 measm*es and persuasive reasonings are insufficient to convince 
 the judgment or incite to obedience, or where the power of 
 habit and corrupt inclination are so strong as to stifle convic- 
 tion and resist the impulses of known duty, coercive measures, 
 restraint or punishment, appear necessary. These applied 
 in wisdom, and under the influence of Divine love, may have 
 effect, and break up the "fallow ground." As different soils 
 require different culture, and that which has long lain neglected 
 and uncultivated must be more attentively managed, and re- 
 quires greater labour and care than that which is kept clean 
 and tilled, so with the minds of youth. Some must be ten- 
 derly led along and encouraged ; others require coercive mea- 
 sures and stricter discipline ; but in all the one great object 
 should be kept in view, that of reducing into pliant subjection 
 that mighty opposer of good, self-will^ according as it appears 
 more or less to have taken deep root in the mind, in order that 
 they may be taught implicit obedience to their parents and 
 teachers. Then may we hope they will more easily learn sub- 
 9 
 
130 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1802. 
 
 jection and obedience to the cross of Christ, and the dictates 
 of truth in the heart. 
 
 Seventh month 4th. — A reviving meeting. Several times 
 to-daj, I have felt impressions as though the time was come 
 for me to notify the committee of my wish to resign the sta- 
 tion I fill. Am desirous of weighing it carefully — for al- 
 though my nature would rather be excused from the trials I 
 encounter here, yet, I wish to be fully resigned to what may 
 be in the line of Divine appointment, and patiently to endure 
 whatever sufferings, in unerring wisdom, may be permitted 
 me, under a firm belief that all is graciously designed for my 
 good that is dispensed by the Divine hand. 
 
 8th. Comfortable feelings in a belief that the Divine super- 
 intendency over his humble, depending children is such, that 
 amidst all their varied trials and proving seasons, his eye be- 
 holds them with a degree of Fatherly compassion, and secretly 
 supports and sustains them, though they may "know it not." 
 
 22d. Writing has been for some time suspended, through 
 the extreme depression and tried state of my mind. The 
 error of looking too much at the gloomy side of things, I 
 sometimes fear I am much inclined to. Have this week the 
 care of the boys, and wonder how I get along so well. 'Tis 
 not of myself. My great weakness and depression, a few 
 days ago, made me look forward to this week with reluctance. 
 Yet Divine Goodness is manifest, and evidently mindful of me. 
 This I learn daily, that as I have nothing of my own to de- 
 pend on, it is necessary to keep my eye steadily toward Him 
 who is strength in weakness and graciously cares for the 
 poor. 
 
 Seventh month 28th. — Calmness and serenity of mind my 
 attendant. I desire rightly to prize and improve the favour. 
 A little light appeared on the prospect of my resignation. 
 As I came here under an apprehension of duty, so let me be 
 weighty in leaving ; and seek to know the will of Him, who 
 "putteth forth his own and goeth before them." 
 
 30th. Set off in the stage with a view of making a visit to my 
 relations, having for some time felt the need of a little relaxa- 
 tion. Some serious considerations, during the ride, on a view of 
 the state of this country, and the political parties that are active 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY AT ^VEST-TOWN. 131 
 
 in it. Oh, how unsettled ! how unquiet is that spirit ! "My 
 soul, come not thou into their secret ! unto their assembly, 
 be not thou in any wise united !" Arrived in town near even- 
 ing, and next day obtained a passage to Byberry, where a 
 mutual satisfaction was felt in again meeting with my dear 
 parents and family. 
 
 Eighth month 8th. — After performing a satisfactory visit 
 to my relatives and acquaintances, in my native neighbour- 
 hood, I returned to West-town ; was much animated on again 
 meeting my dear friends here after several days absence. 
 
 11th. This morning, sadness and dejection attended my 
 mind, and a query. What is the cause ? 
 
 I want to dwell nearer the Divine, inexhaustible Fountain 
 of Light and Love. This, I think, has been the travail of my 
 mind to-day. 
 
 It is well for thee, my soul, to know how thy time is pass- 
 ing in this probationary scene, and how, and to what purpose 
 thy days are spending. 
 
 16th. Still looking for a release, though I feel differ- 
 ently on the subject from what I did two weeks ago. My 
 anxiety to be freed from this place and service has subsided. 
 Having found that the contemplated offering of my resigna- 
 tion was not attended with that clearness in which I wish in 
 all things to act, my mind has become quiet and easy. The 
 change in my feelings has indeed been marvellous to me. 
 
 17th. Very important, and deeply interesting, are my pre- 
 sent engagements and future prospects. If ever, or in any 
 condition of life, the superior aid of Divine Wisdom is neces- 
 sary to guide and direct, surely it is now. This, thou fully 
 believest, my soul ! Be diligent then in seeking, and pa- 
 tiently waiting to know the mind of Truth concerning thee, 
 and how it may be best for thee to proceed. 
 
 21st. Perceived the necessity of knowing the truth of this 
 doctrine, '< All my springs are in thee;" that all the powers 
 and dispositions of my mind should be regulated and influ- 
 enced by the Divine principle of Love. Some feeble labour 
 after this desirable experience. 
 
 24th. Various are the states through which the mind passes 
 in the course of the day ; and surely it is a part of wisdom, 
 
132 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1802. 
 
 attentively to examine the secret springs of action, and the 
 different feelings excited by diflerent objects ; in all things 
 carefully to observe the movings of that holy, internal prin- 
 ciple, which, the more it is attended to, the better it is under- 
 stood, and its little secret motions more distinctly discovered. 
 Learn hence, my soul ! to dwell deep, and inwardly at- 
 tentive. 
 
 In a situation which afforded, from day to day, so little di- 
 versity of occupation and observation, the preceding memo- 
 randums necessarily present much of a sameness; yet they 
 are valuable, as exhibiting the traits of character, and the 
 religious concern of the writer's mind, to know a continued 
 growth and advancement in the Truth ; as also for the right 
 improvement of the children under his care, and the general 
 welfare of the institution. 
 
 After having faithfully devoted his talents and energies to 
 the discharge of the duties and responsibilities devolving upon 
 him, in this place, for a period of about eighteen months, he 
 believed the time had arrived for him to resign the station he 
 occupied. Being released from the engagement, in the elev- 
 enth month, 1802, he bade adieu to the scenes of West-town, 
 and its inhabitants, many of whom were endeared by the ties 
 of friendship, and he returned to his former neighbourhood. 
 
 Having, while a resident at the boarding-school, formed 
 an acquaintance and marriage engagement with Rebecca 
 Budd, one of the female teachers, it was with new prospects 
 and pleasing anticipations that he again became a member 
 of his father's family ; and with a wonted seriousness of mind 
 pursued his temporal business, and the necessary arrangements 
 preparatory to the contemplated event of marriage — the de- 
 sire continually abiding with him to be rightly directed in all 
 his movements. 
 
Chap. VI.] DIARY— CONTINUED. 133 
 
 CHAPTER VL 
 
 DIARY CONTINUED. 
 
 Byberry, first month 1st, 1803. — Again another portion 
 of time has elapsed, another year has closed ! And thus the 
 wheels of time with incessant motion whirl around, and hurry 
 us forward toward an unchangeable state. While the closing 
 eve of the expiring year, and the opening morn of the succeed- 
 ing one, are employed by the giddy, the licentious, and the 
 vain, in levity and folly, rioting and wantonness, to the more 
 thoughtful part of mankind they furnish themes for profitable 
 reflection and lessons of deep instruction. These wisely con- 
 sider that their days are swiftly passing away, that they are 
 living for eternity, and are here but as pilgrims and so- 
 journers. They are excited to consider what progress they 
 have made during the preceding year. They feel it a serious 
 thing, carefully to review the path of life, even for one year ! 
 How many painful reflections must necessarily arise on a 
 retrospect of deviations from the line of rectitude, and the 
 want of ardour in the pursuit of substantial good ! How 
 humiliating to consider the little gratitude we have mani- 
 fested for the abundant mercy and goodness of our heavenly 
 Benefactor ! But surely it is profitable for us thus to look 
 back and carefully consider our ways ; and although we may have 
 to pass under the ministration of condemnation, and a hum- 
 bling sense of our great deficiencies, yet let us not be dis- 
 couraged: our gracious Helper is mercifully disposed to assist 
 our feeble endeavours after a life of purity and holiness. Let 
 us then double our diligence with the rising year; let us wisely 
 improve the passing time, that so we may be enabled to look 
 over our course through the present year with complacency 
 and satisfaction. May we day by day diligently seek for 
 help, for strength and wisdom from above; and know our 
 dependence placed on Him, who can and will bless every 
 honest endeavour to serve him. 
 
134 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1803. 
 
 How various have been the scenes through vrhich I have 
 passed during the preceding twelve months ! All before me 
 is wrapped in the shades of futurity. My busy mind is plan- 
 ning schemes of future enjoyment, and looking forward to a 
 comfortable settlement in life. But all these prospects may 
 soon be cut off. The cold hand of death may separate me 
 from them. Surely then it is the part of wisdom to be care- 
 ful of setting the mind too much upon them, as all human 
 things are uncertain. 
 
 An affecting account received in Philadelphia to-day of a 
 man from the country being suddenly removed from this 
 stage of being by a log falling on him as he was walking 
 along the street. Thus in an unexpected moment the awful 
 summons arrested him, prepared or unprepared. And how, 
 my soul, would it have fared with thee, had it been thy lot, 
 instead of his, to be thus suddenly snatched out of time and 
 numbered with the silent dead ! Reflect deeply, reflect ! and 
 thou, reader! whoever thou art, let the solemn considera- 
 tion impress thy mind. We are yet spared, but why ? Let us 
 lay it to heart, and labour to "have our lamps trimmed and 
 our lights burning," as we know "not at what hour the bride- 
 groom may call for us, whether at midnight, at cockcrowing, 
 or in the morning." 
 
 2d. To-day at our meeting at By berry had the acceptable 
 company of Martha Routh, Mary Newbold, and Peter Barker. 
 To have the company and gospel labours of the devoted ser- 
 vants and handmaidens is a great favour. May we be rightly 
 sensible thereof, and gratefully prize the blessing. 
 
 3d. A stormy morning, with a considerable fall of snow. 
 This day I had a conference with the Trustees, and agreed to 
 undertake the teaching of our school at Byberry, as believing 
 it best for me at present. Thus, very contrary to my expecta- 
 tions, am I likely again to settle at my native place and resume 
 my former employment. 
 
 4th. Spent mostly at home. Measurably quiet in mind, 
 quite satisfied with having so far agreed to engage in the 
 teaching business, and now look forward toward settling in 
 this neighbourhood. Oh ! how my mind has been exercised 
 
Chap. VI.] DIARY— CONTINUED. 135 
 
 on this very important subject, but I hope a way is gradually 
 opening. 
 
 5th. Went to see after an adjoining farm, whether it may 
 be had for a place of settlement ; received not much encourage- 
 ment. In meeting, occupied too much with thoughts of tem- 
 poral things, but was preserved measurably retired in mind. 
 Much exercised about finding a place of residence. Still 
 hope a way will open; feel greatly dependent and unable to 
 do any thing aright without Divine aid, 
 
 13th. "A humble walking and daily communion with thy 
 God." On the revival of this sentence, renewed desires arise 
 that it may be more and more recorded in the lines of my 
 experience from day to day. " Remember that nothing short 
 of a humble walking and daily communion with thy God, can 
 yield thee a firm and lasting peace." These were the feel- 
 ing expressions of Hannah Trip, a young woman of Connecti- 
 cut, in her serious and instructive soliloquy on worldly- 
 mindedness. May they animate my soul in the pursuit of 
 "durable riches," a treasure in the heavens which faileth not 
 
 14th. Closely engaged in the compilation of a grammar ; 
 mind favoured with a good degree of quietude. 
 
 loth. A comfortable time this morn in a walk alone, pre- 
 vious to which a line of Pope's writing was revived, by a 
 neighbour's coming in and talking much. "I sit, with sad 
 civility I hear." Ah! how much conversation about trifles 
 some indulge in ! Ask tJiyself, whether thou art enough 
 guarded in this respect. 
 
 17th. My mind much occupied on the subject of a place of 
 settlement. Reduced to a tried situation respecting this im- 
 portant movement, and "find no spot of all the earth my 
 own." A state of suspense and anxiety, but in the evening 
 became composed and resigned, trusting in the care and 
 superintendence of Divine Providence. 
 
 18th. Anxiety renewed this morn on the subject of a settle- 
 ment, but a door of hope opened, and my mind felt relief; 
 impressed with gratitude to my heavenly Benefactor. 
 
 19th. Spirits revived, and too much elevated. Attended 
 Pine street meeting, to me a favoured one, as my mind was 
 brought down into humility ; glad and thankful that I was 
 
136 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1803. 
 
 there. Dined at E. Kimber's, and returned home, "vralking 
 most of the "vray, much wearied. 
 
 20th. Company here this morn. Mind too superficial. To- 
 day agreed for the purchase of a farm ; a comfortable and 
 pleasant situation. 
 
 'Tis wonderful how things unfold and a way is made, where 
 I have seen no way ! To the Great First Cause I look Avith 
 gratitude, and desire my mind may ever so dwell under a sense 
 of his goodness, and my dependence on him for every bless- 
 ing, that I may never adore the gift instead of the Giver ; 
 never become so attached to earthly perishable objects as to 
 weaken my love to my heavenly Father, but that I may so 
 dwell in humility as to be endowed with wisdom from above 
 to use and enjoy these gifts ariglit, to the honour of the Great 
 Giver, from whom I receive my life and my all. 
 
 21st. My mind continues calm respecting yesterday's im- 
 portant transaction. I was favoured with a clear prospect of 
 the excellence of a life regulated by the precepts of the gos- 
 pel, and influenced by the Spirit of Truth in all things. 
 
 23d. First-day. Meeting attended with close labour in the 
 forepart ; afterward light arose, and attained a good degree of 
 dominion over the roving imagination. Spent the afternoon 
 in writing ; then went to see my aged and afflicted aunt Grace 
 Townsend ; found she had exchanged this state of being, for, I 
 trust, a far better, about half an hour before my arrival. 
 Happy release from the pains of mortality. 
 
 25th. Burial of my aunt. Mind desirous of humility. Much 
 company of different kinds during the afternoon. A willing- 
 ness to receive popular applause and the approbation of men 
 discovered. How necessary is humility ! 
 
 26th. Preparative meeting. Engaged in support of the pre- 
 cious testimony, and exercised on account of the lifeless, for- 
 mal manner of transacting business. " Whatsoever thy hand 
 findeth to do, do it with thy might," without regard to the cen- 
 sure or applause of men. Thou art not to stand or fall by the 
 sentiments of others, only keep down to the true root and 
 spring of action. Time is swiftly passing away — be industri- 
 ous — bo not afraid of suffering — stand firm — dwell deep, and 
 be humble. 
 
Chap. V.] DIARY— CONTINUED. 137 
 
 Second montli 2d. — Monthly meeting — very poor and dull. 
 Suffered in silence. Afternoon had company — talked much, 
 chiefly on literary subjects. 
 
 3d. Spent part of the evening at a neighbour's, in a good 
 deal of freedom of conversation. Hope I gained something 
 thereby, as since leaving them I feel more of the spirit of cha- 
 rity, love, and good-will toward them. But, ah ! beware of a 
 superficial external friendship. 
 
 5th. Set forward on a journey to West-town. Mind re- 
 duced to a humble, profitable frame. Arrived there about 
 sunset, and was gladly received by my former colleagues, and 
 the family generally. Felt the need of care and watchfulness 
 that my mind be not too much elevated. Various were the 
 sensations and feelings attendant on a review of the different 
 parts of the house, and the variety of scenes of care and exer- 
 cise, of pleasure and pain, which I have witnessed in this place. 
 
 6th. A very rainy morning. Visited the difi"erent parts of 
 the family with a comfortable mind. Attended meeting ; felb 
 the influence of Divine love, as if I could say in sincerity, I 
 love everybody. In the evening had an interesting opportu- 
 nity with a number of little girls, at whose request I gave a 
 particular account of my late visit to New York and Nine 
 Partners, and the order and state of that institution, with 
 which they appeared gratified ; and I endeavoured to improve 
 the opportunity by impressing their minds ■with a sense of the 
 superior advantages and privileges which they enjoy. Sat 
 with them when collected for reading ; then sat with the boys, 
 and afterward with the rest of the family collected in the din- 
 ing-room. 
 
 7th. Took leave of my friends, and set ofi" homeward. Some 
 precious seasons of favour during the journey to Philadelphia, 
 where, after some difiiculty in crossing the Schuylkill, and find- 
 ing the way through a thick fog, I arrived safely a little in the 
 evening. 
 
 8th. After attending some business, set off for home. Had 
 a miry road to Frankford, where I left the carriage and rode 
 home on horseback. 
 
 10th. A cold and very rough ride to quarterly meeting, but 
 have cause to be thankful I was there. Dear K.. Jordan ap- 
 
138 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1803. 
 
 peared in a very edifying testimony, tending to encourage the 
 tribulated travellers Zionward. 
 
 ISth. This afternoon had the company of Edward Hicks, 
 profitably so, I hope, as his sobriety and seriousness stirred 
 up the pure witness in me, and my mind was brought into a 
 state of more inwardness and humility, and though the chan- 
 nels of free converse were much closed, I trust silence was pro- 
 fitable for us. Hence an important lesson may be learned, 
 that to dwell deep and inward is far better than a loquacious, 
 superficial appearance of friendship. 
 
 20th. My mind too much elevated this morning, consequently 
 a laborious meeting in order to get down. A lively testimony 
 from Ruth Cadwallader, also a feeling one from J. Simpson, 
 tending to stir up the pure mind. My soul, be thankful for 
 these favours. Had the acceptable company of my friend Sa- 
 muel Comfort this afternoon. 
 
 Third month 6th. — Business and mental languor have 
 prevented the continuance of these memoranda during the 
 two preceding weeks. My spiritual faculties want arous- 
 ing to a more diligent pursuit of the things of eternal con- 
 sequence. To-day had a more comfortable meeting than 
 many of the preceding ones, and was tendered under the feel- 
 ing testimony of dear J. Simpson. My mind has of late been 
 much occupied in making preparations for building a house on 
 the farm lately purchased. I have been fearful lest it should 
 engross too much of my attention, and too much absorb my 
 thoughts. "Satan hath desired to have thee," hath often oc- 
 curred as a necessary watchword, that I maybe doubly guarded 
 and labour to dwell near the preserving Fountain of inexhaust- 
 ible wisdom and goodness, and have often felt the need of 
 wisdom from above to direct me aright in my doings. Some 
 feeble supplications are at times ofi'ered up for counsel, dii-ec- 
 tion, and protection, but ah ! more fervency is wanting. 
 
 Third month 28th. — To have an anchor to the soul at all 
 times is a precious thing. Strive after the feeling evidence 
 thereof. Ah! how my mind is daily tossed and agitated with 
 the cares and concerns of building, &c. Too superficial. A 
 few days since I received a bruise, and was in great danger of 
 having my leg fractured by being cauglit under a large log. 
 
Chap. VI.] DIARY— CONTINUED. 139 
 
 For some moments the pain was very great, and I accepted it 
 as a kind admonition from Infinite Goodness for my instruc- 
 tion. 
 
 Fourth month 5th. — Again resumed the charge of Byber- 
 ry school, having an assistant. Some serious considerations 
 attendant, and a humble state of mind. 
 
 10th. Still favoured with the precious blessing of bodily 
 health. A heavenly season at meeting to-day, under the 
 lively, powerful ministry of that devoted servant, John Simp- 
 son, in which my poor heart was softened, and fervent desires 
 were felt to be helped and preserved in a more watchful, in- 
 ward, and humble frame of mind from day to day, under and 
 through the various scenes of care and fatigue in which my 
 temporal concerns have involved me. My soul craves that 
 Divine aid may be vouchsafed equal to the trials of the day. 
 The care of building — the care of the school, though without 
 being obliged to attend steadily to it — the near prospect of 
 marriage — all claiming a share of my attention, require a 
 greater degree of inward watchful abiding under the influence 
 of best wisdom, than I fear my mind often attains to ; but still 
 I will hope and trust in the all-sufficiency of Divine Goodness, 
 that he will continue to help and direct, preserve and protect, 
 as we endeavour to dwell near his holy footstool, and humbly 
 depend on him alone. Oh ! may we be ever kept in this safe 
 abiding place. 
 
 loth. A time of much suifering in our preparative meeting 
 in beholding a want of forbearance and Christian love and con- 
 descension. My request for a certificate to proceed in the 
 important concern of marriage was laid before the meeting. 
 Have been less superficial to-day than usual. Lord, help me 
 to dwell in increasing stability and humility. 
 
 23d. Returned from yearly meeting, which during the week 
 past I have attended, and have enjoyed myself in my friends' 
 company in a degree never experienced by me at a yearly 
 meeting before. May I rightly appreciate these favours. 
 
 26th. Animal spirits cheerful and mind active in temporal 
 affairs, but the immortal part wants nourishment. 
 
 Fifth month 8th, first-day. — A large white frost last fourth- 
 day morning, and the ground and water frozen on sixth- 
 
140 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1803. 
 
 clay night. This morning the ground covered with snow, 
 which was falling fast till nearly nine o'clock ; the grain that 
 appeared most forward bent to the ground ; young trees lying 
 prostrate, and limbs broken off with the weight of snow. 
 Ah ! how gloomy the prospect. A few days since the trees 
 were in full bloom, flattering the expectation with abundance 
 of fruit. Now, how suddenly cut off ! How the gardens and 
 young foliage languish ! Cold, blustering, and stormy-like 
 winter. My mind was impressed with seriousness on so unu- 
 sual a scene at this season. Surely all this is under Divine 
 Buperintendence, and may we wisely consider why it is permit- 
 ted or ordered by him who is called a God of mercy, and 
 who "doth not willingly afflict nor grieve the children of 
 men." 
 
 Had the company of a young man to dinner who is about 
 to enter the solemn covenant of marriage ; have for some time 
 observed him rather loquacious, and unpleasantly so to-day ; 
 was excited to a little self-examination that I might discover 
 whether I am not addicted to the same failing. I desire to 
 know all my conversation circumscribed by the pure principle 
 of Divine Light and Love. May I earnestly strive for this, 
 for surely on all hands I need wisdom — pure wisdom to guide 
 and direct me through the cares, dangers, and snares that at- 
 tend my path. 
 
 9th. My attention engrossed by external objects in a greater 
 degree than my better judgment approves. Cannot find that 
 I have rightly gained admission to the closet of prayer ; the 
 feeble cries that have been raised have quickly been silenced 
 by the cares of life, so that feeling supplication has not been 
 witnessed. 
 
 Had a free, open conference with my friend I. G. this even- 
 ing on the subject of plainness of appearance. He seems con- 
 cerned for me and my friend, lest in our setting out in life we 
 should be influenced by new fashions in our building and fur- 
 niture. He says the eyes of the people are upon us, and ap- 
 pears very solicitous that we may set a good example, so that 
 our usefulness in society may not be frustrated by a conformity 
 to the customs and manners of the world. How kind our 
 friends are to be so thoughtful about us. May we walk hum- 
 
Chap. VI.] DIARY— CONTINUED. 141 
 
 blj, and daily seek for best wisdom to direct us in all our 
 movements. 
 
 lltli. Some victory obtained, through Divine aid, over a 
 heavy, drowsy disposition in meeting to-day ; but, ah ! too in- 
 animate. A state of ease is not favourable to the free circula- 
 tion and sensible feeling of Divine Love. 
 
 13th. Mind much occupied in externals, though hope a good 
 degree of preservation has been witnessed. 
 
 14th. Mental feelings much as usual. Favoured with a lit- 
 tle season of living prayer, as I rode on my way to Mount 
 Holly. 
 
 17th. Returned home, and during my ride had a precious 
 season under the influence of Divine Love. 
 
 19th. Health mercifully preserved, for which may I be 
 thankful. Mental poverty, and much occupied about external 
 affairs. Learn to keep "the moon under thy feet." 
 
 22d. First-day morning — pensive — a walk — sensations and 
 reflections as follows : 
 
 While we are striving to accommodate ourselves to the times, 
 to the manners and dispositions of others, we never witness 
 true composure and settlement of mind. 
 
 There is an Eternal Arm of power that is able to preserve 
 and support through all the various trials, vicissitudes, and 
 changes of this probationary scene : but it is only by a hum- 
 ble, daily dependence thereon, and a careful attention to the 
 inspeaking word, that safety and stability are experienced. 
 
 Think it not strange that seasons of dejection occur, even 
 when no external or sensible cause can be assigned, and when 
 surrounded by those who are dear to us, and appear to enjoy 
 themselves in complacency and tranquillity. We cannot fa- 
 thom the ways of unsearchable Wisdom, nor understand his 
 mysterious workings in the soul ; but by a humble inward ap- 
 plication of mind we may discover of his wonders in the deep, 
 so far as is necessary for us to know, and may see the opera- 
 tions of his all-controlling hand in every dispensation allotted us. 
 
 The regular diary kept by our dear friend here ceases, yet 
 
142 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1803-15. 
 
 it cannot be doubted that tlie daily prayer for preservation, 
 and fervent desire for right direction in all his movements, 
 were continued. No further memoranda appear relative to 
 his marriage or to subsequent events, except the following, 
 which present a cursory view of a period of about thirteen 
 years : 
 
 "We were married about the middle of the sixth month, 1803, 
 at a public meeting of Friends in Mount Holly, New Jersey, 
 and in the seventh month following settled in Byberry, on the 
 farm purchased the spring preceding. Having been so long 
 engaged in teaching school, it appeared right for us to devote 
 a further portion of our time to the instruction of youth, and 
 accordingly we opened a boarding-school for girls in the 4th 
 month, 1804. In this we both found ample employment in the 
 hope that we were rendering a service to the community. My 
 dear wife was well qualified for her part of the charge, watch- 
 ing with maternal tenderness over the health as well as the re- 
 ligious and moral welfare of the interesting pupils under our 
 care. 
 
 "We pursued this engagement until the tenth month, 1810, 
 when our boarding-school was changed for the accommodation 
 of boys and young men. This was done in order to furnish 
 an opportunity for young men to qualify themselves for school- 
 teachers, or finish their education. We continued this board- 
 ing-school until the spring of 1815 ; when, apprehending the 
 time had arrived for relinquishing the toils and care attendant 
 on the business, we discontinued it. 
 
 " A little previous to this change, my prospect of making 
 a religious visit to the Eastern States had been laid before 
 Friends, and certificates of their unity with the concern were 
 furnished for that purpose." 
 
 Before presenting to the reader the interesting account of 
 this journey, it may be best to take a brief review of the 
 years embraced in the preceding paragraphs. During which 
 time, from all the sources of information to which we have 
 access, and also from occasional memorandums, clear evidence 
 is furnished that his time and talents were diligently and use* 
 
Chap. VI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 143 
 
 fully employed, whilst there is no room left to doubt that the 
 object of his highest concern was his own advancement in the 
 knowledge of "the things which make for peace." 
 
 Among the early fruits of his literary labours were the com- 
 pilations of an " English Grammar," and of a <' Spelling- 
 Book," which, through a long course of years, have received 
 deservedly the approval of experienced instructors, and been 
 adopted in a vast number of schools in the United States. 
 The publication of these claimed his attention soon after the 
 establishment of "Pleasant Hill Boarding-School," the name 
 of the institution under his care. 
 
 In relation to this school many testimonials might be ad- 
 duced, if necessary, showing the satisfaction of parents and 
 guardians with the instruction and care bestowed on their 
 children. The following extract from a letter to a friend 
 shows the exercise of a religious concern for the welfare of the 
 members of his family: "Have just had a favoured opportu- 
 nity with our dear girls, that I hope will not be forgotten or 
 swept away with the next tide. We collect them about four 
 o'clock on first-day afternoons, for the purpose of a little re- 
 tirement and reading the Scriptures, or some profitably and 
 seriously impressive author. But reading is not always the 
 exercise. Oh ! how acceptable at times would be the com- 
 pany of a feeling mind dropping into our little circle." That 
 this and other labours of love on their behalf were not lost, is 
 evidenced through letters written by the children after their 
 return home, expressive of afiectionate attachment and grati- 
 tude to their former teachers and caretakers. One little girl, 
 not a member of our society, makes especial mention of the 
 beneficial effect upon her mind of the practice of observing 
 silence on sitting down at meals, as affording an opportunity 
 of secretly acknowledging a grateful sense of the benefits 
 received. 
 
 Many interesting circumstances connected with the faithful 
 discharge of duty, and adherence to the dictates of the inward 
 monitor in his intercourse amongst men, and in domestic and 
 social relations, might doubtless have been recorded, and been 
 occasion of strength and encouragement to other minds simi- 
 larly exercised, but it appears not to have been his object to 
 
144 JOURNAL OP JOHN COMLT. [1803—1815. 
 
 record much matter of a secular nature, excepting when con- 
 nected with religious engagements or the state of his own mind. 
 
 Situated under favourable circumstances, and possessed of a 
 vigorous mind, he was often employed during these and sub- 
 sequent years in active business from home — in the settling of 
 estates — assisting the widow and fatherless — affording tempo- 
 rary relief to others in embarrassed circumstances — sometimes 
 in cases where promptness alone could rescue from suffering both 
 of body and mind. As a mediator in settling differences in a 
 gentle and Christian spirit, he was often the happy means of 
 restoring harmony and love. As a surveyor and conveyancer 
 he was extensively useful. By his judicious proceedings, on 
 many occasions, he was instrumental in preventing difficulties, 
 and his labours were often blessed to the reconciling of con- 
 flicting interests. 
 
 He maintained a lively interest for the welfare of the reli- 
 gious society to which he belonged, in the service of which 
 he was frequently engaged. When prevented en one occasion 
 (1808) from personally mingling with his friends at their an- 
 nual gathering, he thus wrote to an intimate friend, who was 
 in attendance : " I believe it will be safest for me to stay at 
 home this week, and endeavour to perform domestic duties. 
 But these I trust will not prevent the fellow feeling I have 
 with the travail and exercises of the collective body, with 
 which I feel nearly united in the bond of love. May you who 
 dwell at Jerusalem, as at the feast of the Passover, have 'your 
 upper rooms furnished and ready,' and may you also remem- 
 ber the poor, the weary, and those so near fainting as to be 
 under the necessity of tarrying at the brook Besor." 
 
 Although frequently engaged in religious labour, he was not 
 called to the publie exercise of the ministry until the latter 
 part of the year 1810. His first communication in a meeting 
 for worship was at By berry, where, under a very solemn cover- 
 ing, he appeared in a testimony of considerable length. He 
 continued to occupy his gift to the satisfaction of Friends ; 
 and in the seventh month, 1813, he was acknowledged by his 
 monthly meeting as a minister in unity therewith. In the 
 month following he obtained a minute to pay a religious visit 
 to Friends within Cain, Concord, and Western quarterly meet- 
 
Chap.YI.] journal of JOHN COMLY. 145 
 
 ings. In opening to his monthly meetings his religious con- 
 cerns for travelling abroad, it was an expression frequently 
 used by him, that he " believed it right to stand resigned to 
 perform the service ;" and on returning his minutes, he gene- 
 rally gave information that he "had performed the service 
 as way appeared to open," sometimes adding, «to the satis- 
 faction" or "peace of his mind." Thus evincing, on these 
 occasions, a modesty and moderation that was a prominent 
 characteristic through life. 
 
 In the year 1814, with the concurrence of his monthly meet- 
 ing, he made a religious visit to all the families of coloured peo- 
 ple, and many others, within six or seven miles of his residence. 
 It was performed mostly on first-day afternoons, as being the 
 most suitable time for the visited ; and he had many public 
 meetings appointed in the surrounding neighbourhoods, at 
 places where no meetings for worship were usually held. 
 
 A few memorandums of the discharge of this religious ser- 
 vice may evince the continued bent of his exercised mind to 
 fulfil the mission to which he was called. 
 
 1814, Fifth month 1st. — Having opened in our monthly meet- 
 ing a concern to visit the people of colour and some others 
 round our neighbourhood, friends approved thereof, and left 
 me at liberty to pursue it ; accordingly proceeded therein, and 
 this afternoon had satisfactory opportunities with several 
 families, among the rest that of a white man who has seven 
 children, out of nine, that cannot walk, several of them idiots. 
 The parents are religious people, and appeared glad of our 
 visit, which was afiecting and instructive to us. 
 
 22d. Had sittings with several families to satisfaction. A 
 comfortable meeting with a family of coloured people ; an 
 aged man who has a sick son, a remarkable lad, whose mind 
 seems preparing for the kingdom. A number of their neigh- 
 bours had collected, and we thought it was a favoured time. 
 
 Sixth month 5th. — Visited H. R.'s family, and though un- 
 der great poverty, had an open, satisfactory season. Also, a 
 favoured opportunity with a coloured family, and felt Deace 
 in the dedication to these labours. 
 10 
 
146 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 12tli. Performed a religious visit to T. R. and Avife, and 
 ■was favoured ■U'ith the overshadowing of Divine goodness. 
 May it be gratefully remembered. 
 
 Seventh month 3d. — The week past had been a week of dis- 
 couragement, and a conclusion adopted to rest at home to-day, 
 unless light should arise on the concern, and a renewed intima- 
 tion of duty to go forward. But after meeting, Jiome appeared 
 no place of rest; and a willingness was wrought to continue the 
 labour in the field, "white already unto the harvest." Accord- 
 ingly, a grain of faith renewedly vouchsafed, went to B. A.'s 
 and had a full opportunity with his family. Six children, the 
 two eldest just grown up, toward whom counsel flowed freely. 
 R. A., an aged woman who has been blind for some years, sat 
 with us ; and at the close, said, " Though she could not see, 
 she could feci,'' and was glad of such an opportunity. May 
 it be remembered to profit by us all. 
 
 Next went to see the family of N. S., lately come among 
 us ; several young people present. The opportunity would 
 have ended more to my satisfaction, had the stepping-stones 
 been more carefully attended to. 
 
 Went thence to visit black Ishmael's family, by Pennepack ; 
 found there a company of coloured people and his aged mo- 
 ther, ninety-three years old, who had walked eight miles to 
 see them. It was a favoured opportunity, and, judging by 
 their expressions, an acceptable visit. Peace attended these 
 labours. 
 
 17th. Spent the afternoon in religious labour, in compan}'' 
 with my dear friend, James Walton. Visited the family of A. 
 K., several neighbours being present. Doctrine and counsel 
 flowed toward them in the openings of life, and a hope was 
 felt that it reached the witness in their minds. 
 
 olst. At home for the first time since our last Yearly Meet- 
 ing, during first-day afternoon. 
 
 Eighth month 7th. — From drawings of love, visited T. K.'s 
 family ; a very open, favoured time in communication to the 
 young people, several of whom were unexpectedly present. 
 
 Ninth month 8th. — Burial of Jesse Williams, at Plymouth. 
 " The memory of the just is blessed." May the remembrance 
 of this dear friend be blessed to the renewing of my mind in 
 
Chap. VI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 147 
 
 faithful dedication, to follow him as he followed Christ. Of his 
 concern and solicitude for my steady perseverance and dili- 
 gent attention to the gift committed to me, I hope to retain a 
 grateful remembrance. His removal is a loss to the church 
 militant. It seems a time of stripping in our borders, so 
 many faithful labourers removed from among us by death. 
 May I labour to be so deep, as to understand the language of 
 Wisdom in these awful lessons. Surely there is a voice in 
 these dispensations of unerring Goodness. 
 
 14th. Mary Witchell, and Margaret Porter, and C. Healy 
 at meeting to-day ; all appeared in testimony. M. Porter is 
 in her ninety-fourth year, and it may be truly said, she is of 
 that number that "still bring forth fruit in old age." She 
 is remarkably clear in her judgment and recollection, retain- 
 ino- her mental faculties in an unusual degree. Her path 
 through life has been a tribulated one. She has been a 
 widow for many years — says she was born in Byberry, and 
 brought up at Buckingham. She also lived in New Jersey, 
 and was acquainted with John Woolman. 
 
 25th. Performed a religious visit to J. W.'s family, accom- 
 panied by E. T. 
 
 Tenth month 9th. — Accompanied by several of my friends, 
 visited the family of J. L. A hope felt that the opportunity 
 will be profitable, although it seemed like bread cast on the 
 waters, the unstable element. 
 
 23d. Appointed a meeting near Smithfield. It was a fa- 
 voured one, and rewarded with peaceful retrospection. 
 
 Eleventh month 6th. — Visited J. S.'s family on Milford road. 
 A time to be remembered, an open door for gospel communi- 
 cation, and a seed visited that is not far from the kingdom. 
 May it be blessed by the great Husbandman ! 
 
 Twelfth month 25th. — Had a meeting at the school-house 
 near Smithfield for the neighbourhood. It was held to good 
 satisfaction, so far as appeared, and afforded some relief, with 
 a portion of peace for the dedication. It was proposed to be 
 held at J. R.'s; but he feared the people, or the minister of 
 liis society, and declined admitting it. He was left to his 
 own reflections after attending with us. The sneers or scoffs 
 of the world are hard to bear to that life which is in alliance 
 
148 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 with it. Yet many would come to Jesus by night, who have 
 not yet love and zeal enough openly to espouse his cause. 
 May they be helped over this state of stumbling at the 
 cross ! 
 
 29th. Attended an evening meeting appointed at A. W.'s 
 It was a favoured season, though moved in, under much weak- 
 ness and discouragments, evincing that the Almighty still 
 founds his great works on nothing that belongs to the crea- 
 ture, but simply on his own power. May the glory be ascribed 
 to Him whose own works praise him. 
 
 First month 1st, 1815. — Edward Hicks at meeting to-day ; 
 appeared in a close testimony to a state of pharisaical right- 
 eousness, and closed in supplication for continued visitation 
 toward the same. 
 
 13th. J. W. and myself went to visit a man and his wife, 
 whose condition inwardly and outwardly appears to be deplo- 
 rable. Disobedience and inattention to the visitations of 
 Divine love, with the dreadful effects of strong drink, have 
 brought them to a lamentable state ; stript of their goods and 
 of every consolation of mind, their situation is deeply to be 
 pitied. After communicating to them what arose, and point- 
 ing out what appeared to be the only door of hope for their 
 escape, we left them and came homeward ; but feeling an ob- 
 ligation to visit another person, we were induced to turn about 
 and went to pay a religious visit to J. D. and family. We 
 left them with calmness and peace of mind in the hope that, 
 at least to one of the sons, it might be as " bread cast on the 
 waters." Notwithstanding the old man appeared in his usual 
 health, and for some days went about the neighbourhood, yet 
 his end was nearer than any of us were aware of, for in one 
 week after he died. 
 
 Renewed evidence of peace for having discharged a Chris- 
 tian duty toward him before his close. This solemn instance 
 of the uncertainty of time calls to the watchmen to be faith- 
 ful, and not put off their duty in sounding forth the warning 
 till the sword come and take a man out of their coasts, for 
 then it is too late. May this lesson be deeply impressed on 
 my soul. 
 
 24:th. Attended the burial of J. D. at Oxford. AYent into 
 
Chap. YL] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 149 
 
 their meeting-place and heard a discourse by their minister, 
 and after it their burial service. It felt to me di-y, lifeless, 
 and formal, but I was satisfied with having attended the 
 funeral, to show that Friends are not unwilling to appear 
 among their neighbours on such occasions. 
 
 Second month 23d. — Went to Wrightstown quarterly meet- 
 ing, at which was Emmor Kimber. He appeared in a lively, 
 edifying testimony, and my mind entered into a harmonious 
 labour with him in the exercise of his gift ; but through inat- 
 tention to my own business, I lost all my exercise respecting 
 the quarterly meeting, and sat the remainder of it in emptiness. 
 Here I saw the dano;er of not attendinsr to our own gifts and 
 duties. My afiiection for and unity with my very dear friend, 
 and the sensible satisfaction of sitting under his ministry, 
 for want of keeping down in my own mind to the origin of 
 the concern that led me to that meeting, produced a flight as 
 on the Sabbath day. 
 
 Second month 25th. — Had a meeting at Neshamony Ferry. 
 It was a time of renewed favour, and some impressions of 
 good made on some minds. 
 
 26th. A large meeting at Lower Dublin Academy. It was 
 owned by the overshadowing of heavenly Goodness, though 
 entered on under much strippedness and fear, evidently 
 manifesting to my soul that all my sufiiciency is in the power 
 of Christ. 
 
 Third month 8th. — In the evening had a meeting at E. H.'s 
 for such as are not in membership with Friends, about the 
 neighbourhood. It was a season in which Divine Goodness 
 was near, and some minds renewedly reached thereby. Oh! 
 may the seed take root and grow in the hearts of the visited, 
 so as to bring forth precious fruit, for surely there is need of 
 improvement. 
 
150 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 CHAPTER YII. 
 
 SOME ACCOUNT OF MY JOURXEV TO XETT TORK AXD XEIV EXGLAXD IX THE 
 TEAR 1815. 
 
 On the 22d of the fifth month, 1815, having the nnity of 
 the monthly and quarterly meetings of Avhich I am a member, 
 I left home under humbling impressions, it being my first ex- 
 tensive journey in the cause of Truth. In company with my 
 dear friends J. W. and D. C, I went to MiddletoAvn to meet 
 the friend who was to be my companion in the journey. Here 
 I parted with my two friends aforesaid, which was particularly 
 trying to me, because I was fully persuaded that J. W. ought 
 to have accompanied me in this arduous and important con- 
 cern. I had a full conviction that his mind had been prepared 
 for usefulness in this journey ; and, had human prudence been 
 less consulted by Friends, and he properly encouraged, no 
 doubt he would have united with me as a true yoke-fellow in 
 the work and in the concern I felt to visit the seed of life in 
 the Eastern States. 
 
 I now felt as if I had no outward staff to lean upon, and 
 the whole figure was realized — no money, no purse, no scrip, 
 and only the single coat or clothing of humble confidence in 
 the Shepherd of Israel remained. The seraphim, with covered 
 face, covered feet, and simply the wings of faith and hope to 
 fly on the Lord's errands, was presented to my view, and 
 appeared to be the motto for me. I felt in a degree the 
 awful majesty of Heaven, high and lifted up in immaculate 
 purity, to whom the anthem of Holy, Holy, Holy was ascribed, 
 sitting on his throne ; and I felt that he justly claimed all the 
 powers of my body, soul, and spirit, to be devoted to his work 
 and service, and in deep prostration of soul the language was 
 felt, "Lord, here am I, send mo," and this is all I can do or 
 offer. 
 
 This state of resignation being attained after a hard strug- 
 
Chap. YIL] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 151 
 
 gle, and my mind calm and composed, m'c set forward on the 
 jom-ney. My spirit was clothed with deep silence and contri- 
 tion as we rode on the way, and no channel open for conver- 
 sation. Thus we passed on till we stopped to feed our horses, 
 nearly opposite to Princeton, New Jersey. While there, the 
 stages arrived, called the Steamboat Line. There were seven 
 carriages loaded with passengers and baggage, and the poor 
 horses were panting for breath and appeared nearly exhausted 
 with hard driving. Their suiferings excited im my mind a 
 deep feeling of pity for the dumb animals of God's creation, 
 that groan and suffer under the hard usage of the brutal, cruel 
 nature of unregenerate man ; and the sentiment of the hu- 
 mane. Christian spirit of John Woolman was revived by the 
 affecting sight before me : " So great is the hurry, in the spirit 
 of this Avorld, that in aiming to do business quick and to gain 
 wealth, the creation at this day loudly groans." 
 
 Had a pensive ride to Brunswick, where we arrived in the 
 evening, and went to the house of Richard Burdsall, but he 
 had gone to Plainfield with two Friends from Baltimore, on a 
 religious visit. During the evening I felt a concern to have a 
 select opportunity with a few Friends that reside in Bruns- 
 wick, about ten or twelve in number. Early the next morn- 
 ing I mentioned this concern to my companion, who was an 
 elder,, but he did not appear to enter into it, and took no mea- 
 sures to promote the object I had in view. The Friends of 
 that town, being members of Plainfield meeting, set out early 
 to attend a meeting appointed by Isaiah Balderson and Joshua 
 Mott. As the concern mentioned could not be carried out, I 
 called to see Robert Eastburn, an aged Friend, residing there. 
 He was in a weakly, declining state of health, but I felt near 
 unity with his spirit. Being thus deprived of the opportunity 
 of mingling my sympathies with the little band of members 
 living in Brunswick, we went on to Rahway. 
 
 It seems right to note, that although Brunswick is a con- 
 siderable town, inhabited principally by Presbyterians, these 
 few sincere-hearted Friends have come there to reside as if to 
 hold up the light of the principle of truth, as professed by us, 
 among the people of this place. They have to go eleven miles 
 to meeting, which they attend twice a week, having also to 
 
152 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [18i5. 
 
 pay the cost of toll, ferriages, &c. and not at all in affluent 
 circumstances, yet they are diligent in the attendance of our 
 religious meetings. I understood they had requested the 
 liberty of holding an indulged meeting at Brunswick, and to 
 my perception I think Truth would own such a measure, under 
 proper care of Friends. But because several of these mem- 
 bers have opened their mouths in a few words in public testi- 
 mony, it is said Rahway monthly meeting seems afraid to 
 grant theu' request. Ah! how long shall human prudence 
 prevail over the dictates of Truth ? 
 
 23d. We arrived at Joseph Shotwell's, in Rahway, about 
 eleven o'clock. After dinner, my prospect of going to Staten 
 Island was mentioned, and a plan proposed for having a meet- 
 ing there, but it did not meet my views. I told Friends my 
 concern was to visit the whole island, and I thought not less 
 than four meetings, appointed at different places, would give 
 all the inhabitants an opportunity to attend, if they chose. 
 H4nry Shotwell, an elder, undertook to procure some young 
 men to go over and have a meeting appointed for to-morrow, 
 and my companion went to bed. I felt like " a sparrow, 
 alone," but not on the house-top; so I wandered along the 
 streets and lanes of the town for an hour or two, in bitterness 
 of discouragement. I keenly felt the privation of a suitable 
 sympathizing companion, and laboured to have my trust re- 
 posed in my Almighty Father and Friend, who justly claims 
 all my heart. 
 
 Friends at Rahway appear to have very little knowledge 
 about the people of Staten Island, (although so near them,) 
 except a widow Ridgway, w"ho is almost the only member 
 amons; Friends residino; there. 
 
 24th. Crossing the water at the Blazing Star Ferry, we 
 went about five miles on Staten Island to a meeting appointed 
 to be held at the house of one Mercereau, who was called a 
 judge, and near by a Presbyterian meeting-house. The 
 judge's wife, being sick and unable to leave her room, had in- 
 sisted on having the meeting there, so that she might attend 
 it, or be in the adjoining room with the door open. Soon 
 after our arrival the people gathered, being mostly Presby- 
 terians. A stand, with a large Bible on it, was placed before 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 153 
 
 me ; but as I had no use for either, both remained un- 
 touched, and the meeting ended to satisfaction, particuhirly 
 to the sick woman. I suppose she and most of the others had 
 never been at a Friends' meeting before. 
 
 After dining at the widow Ridgway's, we had an afternoon 
 meeting about a mile from her house, which was chiefly com- 
 posed of Methodists. It was not large, but was nevertheless 
 a good meeting. As Friends wished to attend their monthly 
 meeting at Rahway the next day, we all returned from the 
 island ; and on the 25th sat with Friends at their monthly 
 meeting there. At this meeting we met with Isaiah Balder- 
 ston and Joshua Mott, Micajah Collins and wife, and Nathan 
 Yarnall and wife, by whom I heard from home. 
 
 In the afternoon we had a meeting at Richmond, the county 
 town of Staten Island, about ten miles from Rahway, It was 
 held in the court-house, at six o'clock, and for a time was dis- 
 turbed by some rude boys ; but at length, through the care of 
 some older people they became quiet, and the meeting ended 
 to good satisfaction. An aged woman remarked that she 
 remembered attending a meeting there appointed by Thomas 
 Scattergood, in which the same kind of doctrine was preached 
 as in this, and with which she expressed her unity and satis- 
 faction. 
 
 We stayed all night at our kind friend, the widow Ridg- 
 way's ; and on sixth-day morning, had our fourth meeting on 
 the south part of the island, about seven miles from our 
 lodgings, at a Methodist meeting-house. It was small, being 
 mostly attended by females ; but I felt peace in my labours, 
 and we returned to Rahway, and thence to New York that 
 evening. 
 
 At New York we took our lodgings with Thomas Buckley, 
 son of Phineas, near Pearl Street meeting-house. On seventh- 
 day morning we attended the Yearly Meeting of ministers 
 and elders there. I felt little, poor, and low in mind, but 
 was kindly noticed by Friends. On first-day morning we 
 were at the meeting at Pearl Street, the service in the minis- 
 try devolved on Elias Hicks, who appeared in a sound 
 energetic discoui'se of some length. Edward Hicks and I 
 dined with Elias at Samuel Ilicks's, and were edified by his 
 
154 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 pleasant and sociable conversation. In the afternoon meet- 
 ing Emmor Kimber was engaged in vocal service to satisfac- 
 tion. After tea at John Murray's with a large circle of 
 Friends, I sat with the Yearly Meeting's committee on Indian 
 affairs. It was interesting, but I felt myself as a silent learner 
 among Friends in this city. 
 
 During the several sittings of the Yearly Meeting, and also 
 in the public meetings for worship, my place still appeared 
 to be to travel with the seed of life in silent sympathy. Yet 
 though my lips seemed sealed in stillness, there was no lack 
 of communications from others. Indeed, it sometimes appeared 
 to me that some Friends had need to learn what true silence 
 was, and to bear the yoke of restraint on the activity of the 
 creaturely will. But many precious Friends were here, and 
 I derived much satisfaction from being in their company, both 
 in meetings and out, tending somewhat to divert my mind 
 from the gloom of pensive feelings that often covered my 
 spirits; arising partly from the weight and importance of the 
 concern that had called me from my dear wife and tender 
 children, and with such an extensive journey before me. 
 
 During the sittings of the Yearly Meeting, while so com- 
 fortably accommodated in Friends' families, I often felt much 
 sympathy toward the domestics in their employ. About the 
 time that the meeting closed, I mentioned this as a religious 
 concern, and proposed having a meeting appointed for them 
 particularly. But Friends of New York thought the bustle 
 of country Friends leaving the city, and other things, rendered 
 it unsuitable. So it was put by, and I had to bear my oAvn 
 burden. It is right, however, to say, that Willet Hicks came 
 to see me, and had unity with the concern; yet no meeting 
 was then had for that class of people. 
 
 On first-day, I was again at two meetings in New York. 
 In the morning at Liberty Street, after John Winslow from 
 New England had spoken, a little seemed required of me; 
 and I took care to close in the life. In the afternoon I was 
 silent; as also in a very large meeting for the coloured people 
 held at Pearl Street in the evening. This meeting was held 
 at the request of Isaiah Balderston of Baltimore, and John 
 Winslow of New England; and both had much to communi- 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 155 
 
 cate to an attentive audience. It was supposed, there were 
 fourteen or fifteen hundred coloured people present, generally 
 very decent, well-dressed, and well-behaved men and women. 
 A great many of them at the close of the meeting came to 
 shake hands Avith us, and all appeared to be Avell satisfied 
 with the opportunity. May a blessing rest upon it. 
 
 On second-day, the fifth of sixth month, we left New 
 York, and had a meeting at Newtown on Long Island, where 
 there was formerly a settlement of Friends, and a regular 
 meeting held; at least, so tradition says. But now only one 
 member resides in this part of the island. After meeting we 
 went to the hospitable, ancient mansion, now occupied by the 
 widow Ann Bowne and her daughters. Lodged there ; and 
 next day visited a Lancasterian school in Flushing instituted 
 by a female association; had a religious opportunity with the 
 teachers and children, to good satisfaction, and was pleased 
 with the order of the school. 
 
 In the afternoon, we visited Isaac Underhill, an aged 
 Friend, in his eighty-fourth year; then returned to attend a 
 meeting appointed at my request for the coloured people and 
 others of the poor and labouring classes, at seven o'clock in 
 the evening. It was well attended, and held till near nine. 
 It was to me a satisfactory opportunity, in which I felt more 
 enlai'gement in gospel love, and greater freedom of communi- 
 cation, than in any meeting since leaving Staten Island. 
 
 Surely, the laborious poor have large claims on our sympa- 
 thy; and it might seem to be a matter of wonder, if this 
 fellow-feeling pervades the minds of those who are engaged 
 in gospel service, that meetings are not more frequently held 
 for their special benefit — for surely their salvation is an object 
 equally dear with that of the more opulent classes. 
 
 Seventh of sixth month, we went to Westbury monthly 
 meeting. Dined at Gideon Seaman's among a circle of dear 
 friends, and was permitted to feel a freedom and ease of mind 
 that I have not lately experienced ; yet felt the need of care 
 and watchfulness. This afternoon I walked to the summit of 
 a high hill to have a view of the ocean. But under the 
 pressure of the important concern that engaged my attention 
 from day to day, I had very little curiosity that required 
 
156 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 gratification. We went to Isaac Hicks's to lodge, and the 
 evening passed in cheerful converse. 
 
 Next day, accompanied by Isaac Hicks, -we returned to 
 Flushing monthly meeting, which was a favoured one, in 
 which I found relief through vocal communication, with an 
 evidence of the rectitude of returning thither. It is good to 
 attend to the gentle impressions and openings of Truth on the 
 mind, at all times and on all occasions. Consistent with this 
 sentiment, in the morning previous to our leaving Isaac 
 Hicks's, I mentioned an intimation to have a meeting at 
 Westbury in the evening, particularly for the coloured people, 
 labourers, men employed in making a turnpike road, and do- 
 mestics. My dear friend James Walton was not present, or 
 he would have understood it. My present companion and 
 Isaac Hicks rather discouraged it, though twice suggested, 
 stating some apparent difficulties ; and among the rest, that 
 it was a day on which many of the labouring class of people 
 were called out to work on the roads, and they might be 
 Aveary, and perhaps some of them in liquor. And besides, it 
 was alleged that it might be too hard for me, after riding 
 thirty miles. Thus it was put off. We dined at Ann Bowne's 
 and returned to Westbury, as comfortably as the blank of the 
 proposed meeting admitted of. 
 
 On the ninth, we went on through Jericho to Oyster Bay, 
 to a meeting appointed by Micajah Collins, held in an old 
 meeting-house belonging to Friends. Formerly a meeting 
 was held here of considerable account ; but now no Friends 
 live in the neighbourhood. Perhaps sixty people attended, 
 and after Micajah had laboured some time and sat down, it 
 appeared right for me to add a few words. I proceeded in 
 the opening, but closed the communication without exhausting 
 the spring, and sat down in quietness and peace, somewhat 
 to the disappointment of Friends who accompanied us, though 
 not to myself. 
 
 Dined at James Weeke's, on the margin of Oyster Bay; a 
 beautiful place. These are not members, but friendly dis- 
 posed people ; their house, furniture, &c. carried marks of the 
 Avorld's grandeur, and I Avas led to reflect how many wants are 
 formed, and how much toil, anxiety, and expense are incurred 
 
Chap. YIL] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 157 
 
 to gratify those desires which the Holy Pattern never intended 
 his followers should indulge. And here a new desire arose 
 that his kingdom might come in the hearts of the children of 
 men, and that they might be redeemed from that spirit whence 
 these wants and desires proceed, so as to know the heart cir- 
 cumcised, and the power of the cross of Christ to prevail 
 over every motion and desire that arises from the lust of the 
 flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life. If this were 
 the case, how much fewer would be our wants ! how much less 
 our care and cumber ! and how much more might our love 
 abound toward God, and one toward another ! 
 
 After dinner, I took a walk on the shore of the bay, and 
 being alone, and feeling myself lonesome, as if without a com- 
 panion to whom I could open my mind freely ; reflecting, also, 
 how through mistaken care and human prudence I am de- 
 prived of a real helper and fellow-labourer, prepared and 
 fitted by the Master for usefulness to me in this important 
 journey, and for the promotion of the blessed cause ; and 
 instead of his company, care, and sympathy, I am "as a 
 sparrow alone" upon the house-top. Under such reflections, 
 and the feelings arising from a retrospect of the trials and 
 difficulties resulting from the privations that I have passed 
 through since leaving home, my spirits sunk in deep discou- 
 ragement and depression, and I gave vent to tears. But la- 
 bouring for resignation, I referred my cause to my heavenly 
 Benefactor ; that if consistent with his will, he might open a 
 way for my deliverance, and for restoring that unity of con- 
 cern and labour that I believed he designed in preparing our 
 minds to be sent forth by "two and two." But perhaps this 
 blank is wisely permitted as a trial of my faith, and to draw 
 my dependence from all outward help to trust in the Lord 
 Jehovah alone. May patience have its perfect work. 
 
 Returned by Fry Willis's, and stayed there a while as plea- 
 santly as the tried, depressed state of my mind would admit. 
 Felt that they were precious Friends, and many of them, I 
 believe, sympathized with me, though none knew the anguish 
 of my spirit. Some supposed I was under discouragement, 
 and several kind expressions were dropped to encourage me. 
 I put on as much cheerfulness as I could, and kept the cause 
 
158 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 of my afFiiction to myself in suifering silence. I considered 
 Anne Willis as a mother in Israel, and a kind sympathizer 
 with the tried little ones. Her grand-daughter, Mary Willis, 
 a young woman about sixteen, appeared to be a precious plant, 
 humble, modest, and unassuming; wearing the beautiful adorn- 
 ing of a meek and quiet spirit. I would have preferred stay- 
 ing here all night, but was taken elsewhere to lodge. 
 
 10th. Still depressed in mind. Called to see that dear and 
 worthy Friend, Elias Hicks, at his own house, where simpli- 
 city and neatness prevail. Then set out to attend a meeting 
 appointed by Micajah Collins, at Jerusalem, seven miles. It 
 was held at the house of Samuel Seaman, a Friend advanced 
 in years, and not long since received into membership with 
 our Society. It was a good meeting, in which I had part of 
 the public labour relating to several state? present. 
 
 After dinner, we went to see a sick friend, whose daughter, 
 about nine or ten years old, has lately requested to be taken 
 into meeting as a member. This opportunity was also satis- 
 factory. 
 
 I was persuaded that there is a precious seed at that place ; 
 and if the minds of visited individuals are faithful to the open- 
 ings of Truth, a revival of godly zeal will take place to the 
 comfort and gathering of many seeking minds, and the ad- 
 vancement of the blessed cause of Truth and righteousness. 
 
 We called and took tea at Jacob Smith's ; had a sitting 
 with the family, in which Micajah Collins spoke. Thence to 
 Isaac Hicks's to lodge. Next day attended Bethpage meet- 
 ing, where was a large gathering of people. Friends and 
 others, and it proved a very open time in enlargement of 
 gospel communication. There is no public ministering Friend 
 belonging to this particular meeting. There are about forty 
 families in which members reside, some of them four or five 
 miles distant. The meeting is often small, and silent, but a 
 number of honest-hearted Friends among them. May the 
 great Husbandman water and nourish the tender })lant3 
 among them. 
 
 Dined at Jesse Merritt's, and thence went to a meeting ap- 
 pointed at a place called East Woods, at the house of Amos 
 Cheshire, a friendly man, three miles from Jericho. It was 
 
Chap. YII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 159 
 
 a large gathering for a thinly-settled neighbourhood ; and 
 though I stood up under (as I thought) a pretty clear open- 
 ing, my labour in vocal service seemed to me like water 
 running over stones, and the testimony seemed to afford 
 very little relief. This led to a state of close examination 
 and deep feeling, and I was willing to acknowledge my want 
 of watchfulness. Dear Elias Ilicks, who was present, rode 
 with us after meeting, and was kind and tender as a father in 
 experience, and his meek and upright deportment was that 
 of a humble follower of Christ. Lodged at his hospitable 
 mansion. 
 
 From impressions felt even before leaving home, and now 
 revived, of service eastward of the meetings of Friends on 
 the island, and hearing of some tender people about thirty 
 miles from Jericho, I found drawings in my mind to visit 
 them. This prospect was laid before Friends, and obtaining 
 their concurrence and encouragement I set out on the 12th 
 of sixth month from Jericho, in company with William Willis, 
 and David Seaman and wife, for Setawket Harbour, where we 
 arrived about noon, and a meeting was appointed at seven 
 o'clock in the evening. Spent the afternoon at the house of 
 Walter Smith, whose wife Elizabeth is convinced of the prin- 
 ciple of Truth, but meets with many trials and difficulties — 
 being surrounded with Presbyterians, Episcopalians and others, 
 but no Friends who are members. Another young woman. 
 Temperance Brewster, is also convinced of Friends' prin- 
 ciples so far as to be willing to be called a Quaker ; choosing 
 rather to sufler affliction and reproach than to continue in the 
 vanities of the world. But her trials are many, having a 
 stepmother of a different mind, and receiving no encourage- 
 ment from her father. My spirit felt deeply for her, and for 
 the precious testimony and principle which she has espoused. 
 Several others about here are also convinced in judgment, and 
 are lovers of the Truth. All this seems to accord with the 
 rectitude of the concern that brought me here. 
 
 But the afternoon passed in great conflict and discom'age- 
 ment. To add to the depression of my mind, our kind hostess 
 seemed to want to give vent to her feelings, and related many 
 of her trials and the difficulties under which she laboured. 
 
160 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 arising from the prejudices of lier neiglibours against Friends, 
 and the opjDOsition of some of them to Friends having meet- 
 ings among them. She further stated, that in a late meeting 
 appointed there by a Friend, some public opposition had been 
 made by a Baptist, and other disturbance. 
 
 These remarks being made in my hearing, all looked very 
 gloomy and discouraging to my stripped and deeply tried 
 mind. I could feel nothing of the sustaining power of Truth 
 to give any confidence, that I should be enabled to stand 
 through a meeting of opposing spu'its to the honour of Truth. 
 I examined some Scripture passages that occurred to my re- 
 collection, as applicable to such states and cases as I appre- 
 hended I should meet with. But all this would not do ; it was 
 like toiling and rowing, and getting no nearer to firm ground. 
 I tried to sleep for relief to my outward tabernacle, but 
 could not. After passing several hours in such agitation, 
 anxiety, and deep sympathy with the seed of the kingdom in 
 some visited minds about Setawket, I was at length favoured 
 with a calm. Oh ! then, if I could only have had these ten- 
 der, seeking minds in a select opportunity by themselves, I 
 thought it would have been comfortable and cordial to me, but 
 a public meeting was appointed, and must be attended, and all 
 the mixture, opposite spirits and prejudices, might be expected 
 there. However, after a long struggle for resignation, with 
 desires that the Divine will might be accomplished in me, by 
 me, and through me, my confidence was renewed in his good- 
 ness and care, and I felt a living faith in the Divine power 
 and efficacy of Truth. A precious covering of gospel love 
 then clothed my spirit with the belief that we should have a 
 good meeting. And so it proved, even a memorable one to 
 me, and I believe to many others. 
 
 If a record of the dealings of Infinite Wisdom with a mind 
 sincerely desirous of doing his will may be a means of encou- 
 ragement and instruction to such as afterward may follow in a 
 similar path, surely I have cause thankfully to acknowledge that 
 he hath led me about and instructed me ; and as mine eye hath 
 been single to him, he hath opened a way where human wis- 
 dom and human reasoning could find no way. In this blessed 
 opportunity, all my toiling, and spinning, and contriving, and 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 161 
 
 searching the Scriptures, proved of no avail whatever. My 
 mind was opened entirely on other subjects, so that, I believe, 
 not a single text of Scripture that I read in the afternoon 
 came into my mind when speaking to the people. Thus it is 
 that Divine wisdom chooses his own offering, to be offered on 
 an altar of whole stones, where no hewing or hammer of human 
 contrivance or premeditation has had any thing to do with the 
 business. Meeting began at seven, and held till near ten 
 o'clock; and as evidence of the feeling produced, several aged 
 people, who looked like Presbyterians, came to me, as well as 
 younger ones, with expressions of love and prayers for my 
 preservation. " Dear brother in Christ," said one, "may God 
 bless you, and prosper you." Another said: " Dear brother, 
 God is no respecter of persons, but he that feareth him and 
 worketh righteousness is accepted of him." Many other tes- 
 timonials of unity and satisfaction were given by men and 
 women in taking leave of one another. Let the glory and 
 honour be ascribed to him who is for ever worthy ; and may 
 the Lord Almighty prosper his own work in the hearts of the 
 people. 
 
 It felt to me that henceforth there would be more openness 
 toward Friends at Setawket Harbour. 
 
 13th. Had a meeting at a place called the Branch, in a 
 Presbyterian meeting-house. It was small, the notice being 
 very short, and other societies in general appear to have very 
 little idea of leaving their business on week days to attend 
 Friends' meetings. The meeting was satisfactory, especially 
 to two men, of account in that place, who are favourable to 
 Friends' principles. Next day, attended Westbury monthly 
 meeting, and had much openness in religious labour among 
 them. The day following, was at Jericho monthly meeting, 
 and was exercised in testimony there. 
 
 In the evening, had an appointed meeting at Jericho for 
 the labourers, domestics, turnpike men, and black people. A 
 very large number assembled, among whom were some of con- 
 siderable note in the world, one from Shelter Island, general 
 collector of the direct tax. He expressed his satisfaction, and 
 that he felt the power of the convicting principle operating 
 in his own mind. Perhaps more than forty New England men, 
 11 
 
162 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1815: 
 
 who are making a turnpike road through this part of the coun- 
 try, also attended, and behaA'ed well, as did also a large num- 
 ber of coloured people. I humbly trust that this opportunity 
 was owned by condescending Goodness, and I felt peace in 
 having attended to the opening. Blessed be the Shepherd of 
 Israel ! My trust and help is on him alone, and hitherto he 
 hath marvellously helped me. 
 
 16th. Had a meeting at Matinicock, being the first I had 
 ever appointed among Friends. Elias Hicks and wife. Fry 
 Willis and wife, Mary Willis, David Seaman and wife, and 
 several other Friends accompanied. It was largely attended, 
 and a favoured opportunity. Dined at Silas Downing's, and 
 attended another large meeting at five o'clock, at Musquito 
 Cove, among various religious professors. It was held at the 
 house of Lewis Valentine, and ended to satisfaction, a pre- 
 cious solemnity attending. 
 
 Next day, dined at Jacob Smith's, at Westbury ; and at 
 four o'clock was present at a meeting appointed for the 
 labourers, domestics, coloured people, &c., and have cause to 
 be humbled in gratitude to the great Caretaker, for his good- 
 ness and condescending love manifested toward us. I felt 
 peace in this dedication to a service that embraced the wel- 
 fare of a class of fellow-beings that are often much neg- 
 lected. Took tea at John Loines's, and lodged at Isaac 
 Hicks's. 
 
 18th. Accompanied by Isaac Hicks and Sarah his wife, and 
 Thomas Willis and Phoebe his wife, with his daughter Mary, 
 a precious plant, I attended Cowneck meeting on first-day 
 morning. After it was nearly gathered, a crowd of people 
 flocked in that I supposed had come from a neighbouring Pres- 
 byterian or Episcopalian meeting that was near by. Our 
 meeting was therefore very much crowded ; and, among the 
 rest, a very large number of coloured people attended, I think 
 the most of that class I ever saw at any meeting not specially 
 appointed for them. Feeling my own weakness, poverty, and 
 nothingness, I was brought under close exercise, and felt fer- 
 vent desires that Truth might not be dishonoured nor the 
 blessed cause hurt by me, either in silence or in vocal service, 
 if called thereto. Under this concern I was enabled to cast 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 163 
 
 my care on my heavenly Helper, and repose my trust and 
 confidence in him alone. Nor did he fail to appear for my 
 deliverance and enlargement in testimony to the spirituality 
 of that worship which is acceptable to him ; and it was a 
 favoured meeting. Just before the close I felt a few words 
 of caution and counsel to the young people, in much affection 
 and deep-felt interest in their welfare. This had a tendering 
 effect, especially on a number of young women, some of whom 
 appeared under a gay dress, but were susceptible of tender 
 feelings. Sm-ely God is good to his Israel; and a precious 
 seed is sown in some minds here. 
 
 We dined with a Friend from New York, who has retired 
 from the busy mercantile world, and indulged himself, as Solo- 
 mon did, in planting trees, making gardens and orchards, and 
 other amusing pursuits — all very nice. These have occupied 
 much time and expense, but he is now growing weary of such 
 a life. His city manners are not profitable to country Friends, 
 especially the younger part of society. It is another instance 
 of the weakening effects of this kind of influence in relation 
 to the testimony of Truth in favour of simplicity and plain- 
 ness. I lament the consequences which too often result from 
 wealthy citizens settling in country places among plain Friends, 
 and supporting an appearance of grandeur, and what is called 
 polished life, in their buildings, furniture, and other accom- 
 modations. Their youth, associating with others around them, 
 must either be singular, or other young people (and this is 
 very natural) will endeavour to imitate them in manners, 
 dress, and appearance. Thus, the mixture is often unfavour- 
 able to the plainness and simplicity of our profession, and has 
 an effect even in our religious meetings, tending to weak- 
 ness in the support of this and other of our Christian tes- 
 timonies. 
 
 Our valued friend Isaac Hicks, although very wealthy, is 
 very much an exception to these remarks. But he has his 
 trials ; for it is true that to a humble mind, great earthly trea- 
 sure is a great trust. But it is due to his. example to record 
 the fact, that much plainness, and simplicity, and moderation 
 appear in his house, furniture, carriage, and deportment, and 
 especially in the dress, and education, and employment of his 
 
164 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 children. This family is an example ■worthy the imitation of 
 Friends retiring from city life, and lucrative business in towns, 
 to settle in country places. 
 
 After dinner we were industriously employed in getting to 
 a meeting appointed at Jamaica, at five o'clock — twelve miles. 
 It was for some time an unsettled gathering ; not only boys 
 talking and moving about, but even men, among whom was 
 one called a great statesman and politician, who did not 
 appear to feel the meeting to be of a religious character. How- 
 ever, at length, through the kind interference of Isaac Hicks, 
 a little quiet prevailed, and the people were generally atten- 
 tive, especially the Episcopalian minister, who sat solid and 
 quiet. On the whole, a comfortable hope was felt that some 
 minds were tendered and edified, and others stirred up to 
 serious reflections. 
 
 Lodged at a Friend's, where are evident indications of city 
 influences, in buildings, furniture, &c., although these Friends 
 have not resided in town, but in the neighbourhood of Flush- 
 ing, where many citizens have summer residences and set- 
 tlements, and this family being wealthy, marks of more gran- 
 deur and show appear than can be reconciled with the humility 
 and simplicity of Truth ; and the children, to correspond 
 therewith, are taking liberties that too plainly show the indul- 
 gence of parents, and the weakness of their hands. Ah ! how 
 my spirit was clothed with mourning while here, in the pros- 
 pect of declension increasing in our society by mixing with the 
 spirit of the world ; but no opportunity opened for relieving 
 my mind of this burden. Yet these were considered goodly 
 Friends, and were kind and hospitable to us. 
 
 On the 19th we set out for Gravesend, on the south end of 
 Long Island, twenty miles hence, a place where Friends first 
 held meetings on settling the island. But it has been so 
 long occupied by Dutch and other inhabitants, that Friends 
 have lost a lot of ground they formerly owned here ; and the 
 present population are such strangers to Friends, that they 
 know very little about them or their principles, for it does not 
 appear that any Friend has had a meeting among them for 
 near twenty years past. Being entirely unacquainted with all 
 these circumstances previous to our going there, and under 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 165 
 
 the impressions of duty to visit that part of the island, I 
 found it safest to attend to the opening. Although we had 
 but a small meeting among the people of a thickly-settled 
 neighbourhood, and that for a "while interru2)ted by a man in 
 liquor, yet a precious calm was felt during the silent part of 
 it — a calm that is sometimes wanting among people accustomed 
 to silent waitings. It was on the whole a good meeting, and I 
 humbly trust was in the pointings of best Wisdom. It is proper 
 also to state that it was held at a public-house, with only one or 
 two hours' notice, and our kind landlord, Wykoff, said after 
 meeting, that the people were well satisfied ; and if Friends 
 inclined to have another meeting there, and would give timely 
 notice, he would have a large meeting gathered. 
 
 As an acknowledgment of the kindness and readiness 
 of Long Island friends to promote the concern, and render 
 their aid in the service of Truth, I will here record the 
 names of those who accompanied us to Gravesend, none of 
 whom had ever been there before, namely, Isaac Ilicks and 
 Sarah his wife, Silas Titus and wife, Samuel Mott of Cow- 
 neck, Henry Cole, and Andrew Cox. 
 
 Gravesend is a beautiful part of Long Island, level and very 
 fertile, and well improved, as is also Flatbush, and all the 
 south-west corner of the island. Thence parting with our kind 
 friends, we rode to New York, and put up at Samuel Hicks's. 
 
 On a retrospect of my visit and labours on the island, I feel 
 peace, and can look back with a calm and quiet mind. If any 
 good has been done, it is of the Lord, and to him be all the 
 praise ascribed. For the present I feel clear of further ser- 
 vice there. But truly the harvest is plenteous, and the labour- 
 ers few. Dear Elias Ilicks has had many meetings and reli- 
 gious opportunities about in various places on the island, and 
 his labours, with those of others, have been blessed, so that to 
 me it appeared that there is an increasing openness toward 
 Friends and their views of the simplicity of the gospel. 
 
 On the 20th I rested, and wrote home, &c. &c. Next day, 
 being the mid-week meeting at Pearl Street, I attended it, and 
 was engaged in a close testimony on the subject of mixing with 
 the spirit and policy of the world, and assimilating therewith 
 in the customs, maxims, and manners of the times, and felt 
 
166 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 peace in the honest discharge of my duty among them. Near 
 the close of the meeting the concern revived to have a meet- 
 ing for the domestics in Friends' families. Friends approving 
 it, an opportunity for that class was had at four o'clock in 
 the afternoon. A large number of females attended, and 
 but few men ; and though it seemed out of season, a hope was 
 entertained that it was not altogether in vain. But here I can 
 but exclaim, Oh ! the importance of being instant in season, and 
 attending to right concerns in their ^jroper places and times. 
 And the proper time for this religious opportunity, I believe, 
 would have been on seventh-day evening following the yearly 
 meeting ; but Friends thought otherwise — perhaps on account 
 of their own convenience. 
 
 22d. Rode to Manhattanville week-day meeting, held at 
 Susanna Marriott's boarding-school. It was small. Dined 
 at John Barrow's, and had a solemn and interesting opportu- 
 nity in his family, with a large circle of young people and 
 others, to the tendering, and I hope quickening of some minds 
 to their profit. In the evening I had a meeting at the acade- 
 my for the factory men and others, which I hope was to pro- 
 fit ; at least I felt peace in giving up to this service, and en- 
 deavouring to do my duty, though under great poverty and a 
 tried state of mind. I feel renewed cause to ascribe all good 
 to my heavenly Helper, who is strength in weakness and a 
 present help in the needful time. Blessed be his goodness 
 for ever. 
 
 Next day (23d) attended a meeting appointed at Westches- 
 ter, after calling at Thomas Walker's, whose Avife Elizabeth 
 (formerly Hoyland) is an English woman, and a valuable mi- 
 nistering Friend. The meeting was an exercising one to me; 
 too little of the quickening power of Truth prevalent. Sarah 
 Collins and John Barrow appeared in testimony acceptably. 
 My service seemed to be to arouse those who were resting too 
 much at case, — that, having lost the piece of silver, they 
 mjo-ht not remain satisfied with the nine while one of the ten 
 pieces was wanting ; but they were advised to light the can- 
 dle and thoroughly sweep the house until the lost piece was 
 found. 
 
 After dining at Benjamin Haviland's, I went to sec his 
 
Chap. VII. ] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 167 
 
 afflicted neighbour, the widow White, and her family, whose 
 husband was buried lately. Had a satisfactory sympathetic 
 opportunity with them. In my communication, the poem, 
 said to have been written by a French widow in affliction, 
 was brought to my remembrance, and rehearsed for the con- 
 solation and encouragement of the afflicted. Had also a 
 parting opportunity, Avith a number of dear young Friends and 
 others, at Benjamin Haviland's; and a precious time it was. 
 
 24th. A small, but very satisfactory meeting at Mamaro- 
 neck, in which a free current of communication opened, and 
 was very encouraging toward some coming forth in the minis- 
 try. Richard Mott was gone to attend Rhode Island Yearly 
 Meeting. We dined at Benjamin Cornell's, and were told of 
 an afflicted woman Friend, a member of that meeting, lately 
 recommended as a minister, who had been much opposed by 
 her husband in relation to her public appearances. Her 
 husband was at our meeting, (though he seldom attends,) and 
 invited us to his house, which was said to be something new 
 for him. He appeared to be tendered, but, alas ! when we 
 called at his house in the afternoon, although he expressed 
 gladness at seeing us, he behaved as if the bottle had been 
 applied to, in order to drown the convictions of his mind. 
 We had a religious opportunity with them and his wife's 
 mother. She is a living minister of the gospel, and green in 
 old age. After calling at some other places, we rode on to 
 William Field's at Purchase. 
 
 25th. Being first-day, attended Purchase meeting, shut up 
 in almost total silence. But Willet Hicks being there, had 
 much to say; among other things, he feelingly adverted to the 
 death of Matthew Franklin that had occurred some time before. 
 
 In the afternoon I was present at a meeting appointed by 
 Daniel Haviland, which I passed in silence, pensiveness, and 
 depression of spirit. Called at James Burling's, took tea, 
 and had a religious opportunity with them. 
 
 Next day being rainy, we went to a meeting appointed at 
 Middlesex in Connecticut. It was a small meeting, in which 
 I had some labour, but was still depressed and discouraged. 
 Returned, and again lodged at William Field's. 
 
 On third-day, was present at a meeting at North Castle 
 
168 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815, 
 
 appointed by Daniel Haviland; had the larger share of the 
 public labour there, to my own relief, and I hope to the satis- 
 faction of the meeting. Dined at Josiah Field's; his wife, 
 Hannah G. Field, daughter of Esther Griffin, is a valuable 
 minister, and attended our Yearly Meeting a few years since. 
 She has a flock of hopeful children, with whom I had a 
 precious opportunity ; and again lodged at William Field's. 
 
 28th. Fourth-day. Notice having been spread, a large 
 gathering assembled at Purchase. For some time deep exer- 
 cise attended my mind, but at length way opened in testi- 
 mony to my relief, and Truth arose, and went over all oppo- 
 sition. Blessed be the name of the Shepherd of Israel. 
 Dined at John Cromwell's, and had an interesting religious 
 opportunity with a number of young people and others. Then 
 visited a well-ordered school, kept by Abigail Peirce, a pre- 
 cious, sweet-spirited young woman. In a religious interview 
 with her and the children, quietness and attention prevailed, 
 and it was a satisfactory opportunity; about a dozen Friends 
 attended with us. Lodged at the hospitable mansion of John 
 and Esther Griffin. 
 
 Next day, was at a large and memorable meeting at Shap- 
 paqua. A number of young people and children evinced the 
 tenderness of their spirits and their feelings of contrition; 
 and it was one of the most melting, baptizing meetings that 
 we have witnessed. I felt somewhat exhausted in my physical 
 powers, but the kindness of several dear friends soon supplied 
 all that was lacking. After the close of this excellent oppor- 
 tunity, was held their select preparative meeting. This kept 
 us there till three o'clock, and I laboured for a change in 
 future, as believing this arrangement unprofitable and wearing. 
 A change was adopted to hold it a day later. I frequently 
 hear of the labours of Emmor Kimber through this section 
 of country two years ago, and he has left a precious savour 
 in these parts. 
 
 30th. Had a meeting at Croton Valley in the morning, and 
 another at Croton in the afternoon. They were both satis- 
 factory opportunities. Lodged at Robert Underbill's, at Cro- 
 ton Point ; and next day, accompanied by several Friends, we 
 had a meeting at Salem in the afternoon. Here is a new 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 169 
 
 meeting-house just finisliecl, and stands on the east side of 
 Croton River. The weather being warm, the meeting was 
 small. Susanna Weekes, a valuable minister, was removed by 
 the fever, from this meeting, about six months since, and her 
 death is a great loss both to the meeting and to her children. 
 My sympathy was enlisted on their account. One of her 
 precious daughters was much affected, and tendered into tears 
 at this meeting. 
 
 Next day being first-day, we were at a very large meeting 
 at Amawalk in the morning, which I hope was to the profit 
 of some minds. It was indeed a favoured season. In the 
 afternoon had a crowded meeting at Peekskill, notice having 
 been voluntarily spread by the Methodists, at the close of 
 their quarterly meeting in the morning. We had cause 
 thankfully to believe that this opportunity was seasonable and 
 blest to some minds. Near the close, Stephen Brown ad- 
 dressed the people on the subject of the anniversary of na- 
 tional independence, and I hope to good effect. His wife and 
 children (except one son) being Presbyterians, were not at our 
 meeting. Lodged at Jacob McKeel's. 
 
 3d. Returned to Robert Underbill's and dined; thence 
 about twelve miles down the North River to a meeting ap- 
 pointed at Tarrytown. It was held in a Methodist meeting- 
 house ; and a good meeting it was, well rewarding for going 
 and returning. Only one Friend, Jacob L. Mott, resides in 
 this town. He is a member of Shappaqua meeting, and has 
 been an instrument of good in that place, by his consistency 
 and uprightness in holding up the testimonies and light of 
 Truth among the people. He is an improving young man, 
 appears in public testimony; and though eight miles from 
 meeting over a rough hilly road, I felt constrained to en- 
 courage his abiding where he is. His wife is a tender-spirited 
 woman ; and though not a member, yet loves the company of 
 Friends, and attends meetings with her husband, who has 
 not long been a member himself. I felt a near interest in 
 their preservation and religious welfare. According to my 
 impressions, there are some seeking inquiring minds in that 
 village; particularly one Odell. We lodged at Jacob L. 
 Mott's; and next morning returned to Robert Underhill's, at 
 
170 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 Croton or Tiller's Point; wliere I Avas engaged in writing 
 home, &c. 
 
 We have been travelling through a very rough, hilly country, 
 that is also rocky and stony; but the roads are generally 
 smooth, much care and labour bestowed on them to remove or 
 cover up the rocks and stones. We are very kindly attended 
 to by Friends, from place to place, and especially some dear 
 young people, whose affectionate, kind attention, and cordial 
 interest in our welfare, is often encouraging to my drooping, 
 exercised mind. Some of these marks of hospitality tend to 
 keep up my spirits, and to inspire grateful aspirations on their 
 account. A number of these young people, and others further 
 advanced, have manifested their interest and respect by attend- 
 ing many meetings besides their oAvn. I believe it is a season 
 of renewed visitation to many in this land, particularly among 
 children and young people. May Heaven bless and prosper 
 the work of Truth in their hearts. 
 
 7th month, 5th. — With some difficulty, and the exercise of 
 much patience, Ave crossed the North Kiver in about four hours 
 in a sail boat, owing to its being a calm time. We were landed 
 at Perry's Landing, opposite Sing Sing, and proceeded up 
 a very steep and high hill to the top, where a very large 
 pond or lake, and a much more level country, opened to our 
 view, than we had travelled lately. We had now twelve or 
 thirteen miles to ride to a Friends' settlement, called Kakiat. 
 The roads were rough and stony, very uncomfortable, unlike 
 those on the east side of the river. The houses were built of 
 stone, and German barns appeared ; but the crops looked poor, 
 and the soil cold and stony. About eight families of Friends 
 are in this settlement, and compose Kakiat meeting, which, 
 about two years since, was constituted a preparative meeting 
 — a branch of Cornwall monthly meeting. They are building 
 a new meeting-house in Ilaverstraw township, about seven 
 miles from a landing of that name on the North RiA^er. 
 
 A friendly man by the name of Seaman came here from 
 Long Island, about ninety years ago, and settled among the 
 Indians. He was then, or soon after became, a member ; and 
 his grandchildren, Jonathan and Jonah Seaman, and their 
 sister, still reside here. We also found here one Benjamin 
 
Chap. YIL] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 171 
 
 Anthony, a doctor, Avho came from Rhode Island, a relation of 
 Job Scott's wife. We paid him a visit, and found him much 
 afflicted and almost helpless with rheumatic affections, stiffness 
 of his limbs and joints ; one of his hands was so contracted 
 that he could not open it at all, and it was with much difficulty 
 that he could get about the room Avith a crutch. He had been 
 a skilful physician, and had a testimony to bear in Friends' 
 meetings. His age about sixty-four, but he appeared to be fast 
 verging toward the house appointed for all living. We had a 
 very satisfactory religious opportunity with him ; and on taking 
 leave, his heart was too full to give utterance to words which 
 he seemed willing to express, evincing that the precious savour 
 of Truth was alive in his mind. 
 
 Surely it is among the duties of the gospel mission to re- 
 member them that are in bonds as though bound with them, 
 and those that suffer adversity and affliction as being also in 
 the body that is liable to like dispensations. 
 
 Thomas Titus, from Clove, and Huldah Hoag, from Monk- 
 ton, in Vermont, have lately visited this place ; the latter had 
 a meeting at Haverstraw Landing, and another sixteen miles 
 down the river at a place called Toppand Sloat, to good satis- 
 faction ; also at the cotton and nail factories conducted by J. 
 Peirson, about ten miles south-westward of this place, Avhere 
 there had never been a Friends' meeting before, and the peo- 
 ple were well satisfied. About two hundred people are said 
 to be employed in these manufactories, situate near the line 
 of New York and New Jersey. I record these events because 
 it is a source of satisfaction, that the feet of the gospel mes- 
 sengers are thus turned toward the people of such corners and 
 obscure places, and the principles of Truth thus opened and 
 spread among the labouring classes, and those who are stran- 
 gers to the simplicity of the gospel. 
 
 John Simpson, Benjamin Clark, Margaret Atkinson, and 
 others, have visited Friends m this place. 
 
 6th. Attended their week-day meeting, held at the house of 
 Jonah Seaman. It was small, and I thought but little savour 
 of life to be felt among them. In my testimony I had to re- 
 commend greater attention to inviting their neighbours, espe- 
 cially when strangers came among them in the love of the 
 
172 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 gospel. After meeting, one Friend endeavom-ed to excuse 
 himself on this head, although he said he was glad of the 
 remark. It was evident there had been a lack of spreading 
 proper notice ; and this note is made, that others may take 
 the hint in similar cases. 
 
 After dinner we set out and went seven miles, over a very 
 rough, stony road to a turnpike leading from Hoboken to 
 Newburg, and thence along the same by Peirson's factory, 
 Munro factory, and other forges, furnaces, &c. on Ramapo 
 Creek, having stupendous piles of rocks and hills on either 
 side, till we came to Lower Clove, and put up at Zebulon 
 Townsend's. 
 
 A meeting was concluded to be held next day, at four in the 
 afternoon. The messengers who went out to spread notice 
 were met by others giving a like notice of a meeting to be 
 held at the same place at eleven. So they ceased, and about 
 ten o'clock we found it was for Micajah Collins, who had come 
 from nortliAvard, and we from southward. So we attended his 
 meeting at Lower Clove, and some labour fell to my lot, which 
 I hoped would be to my relief. In the afternoon we went 
 eight miles to Daniel Bull's at Upper Clove, still a very rough, 
 stony country, and poor roads. In this part of the country, 
 we found it had been a time of great mortality within two 
 years past. In this neighbourhood about twenty grown peo- 
 ple had died, chiefly with the fever, among whom were several 
 valuable and useful members of society. 
 
 8th. Had an appointed meeting at James Cromwell's, their 
 usual meeting-place. It being a rainy morning, the meeting 
 was small, perhaps not more than twenty assembled, but it was 
 favoured with the arising of life, and an encouraging testimony 
 was borne among them. About ten families reside here 
 among the hills, rocks, and stones, and they are about build- 
 ing a new meeting-house. 
 
 In the afternoon we returned through Lower Clove to 
 Cornwall, and put up with William Titus, a son of old Thomas 
 Titus afore mentioned, a valuable Eriend, now gone to Canada 
 on a religious visit. 
 
 Next day, being first-day, attended Cornwall meeting, and 
 was exercised in a somewhat singular testimony among them, 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 173 
 
 the subject of what I had somewhere observed, in the appear- 
 ance of an orchard, of rather scrubby looking trees, where 
 the rough bark had all been stripped off the bodies of the 
 trees ; and it was said that so stripping them, a fresh green 
 young bark would grow in the place of the old one, and the 
 fruit would be renewed and improved. This was held up by 
 way of parable to some old professors, who had become dwarfish 
 and too much earthly-minded. To which was added the Scrip- 
 ture account of Naaman's leprosy being cured by washing 
 seven times in the river Jordan; and this also applied to a 
 class of professors that had become diseased and needed heal- 
 ing, so that their flesh might again become as that of a little 
 child — or rather their spirits. David Sands added a few 
 words on the signification of the number seven, and the meet- 
 ing closed with a precious savour of solemn feeling. 
 
 After dining, set out to return to a meeting appointed at 
 Lower Clove, not feeling easy to leave them without a fuller 
 opportunity. It was a crowded meeting, and among the rest 
 a poor cripple was brought in, who could not walk at all. He 
 was unusually attentive and solid in his looks and deportment. 
 It was a good meeting until a shower of rain came on, and the 
 going out of the young men to take care of their horses and sad- 
 dles occasioned some unsettlement. William Jackson and a 
 number of Friends from Cornwall accompanied us. 
 
 When we returned, we were informed that David Sands and 
 his wife had both been very much hurt, on their return from 
 meeting in the morning, by reason of his horse starting at 
 something near his own gate, when he ran with such violence 
 toward his house, that one of the chair shafts striking against 
 a tree was broken off, and the chair turned bottom upward, 
 with David and his wife both under it, near their own door. 
 The wife was considerably hurt, but after being bled, she ap- 
 peared not to be seriously injured. David's hip was thought to 
 be fractured or dislocated, and his pain so severe as to prevent 
 his removal. After they got him into the house he raised mucli 
 blood, and appeared to be inwardly bruised. We called to see 
 them next morning ; found David confined to his bed, and not 
 able to bear moving, but his mind appeared comfortable. He 
 gave us some good counsel, and took an affectionate leave of 
 
174 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1815. 
 
 US, ■w'itli some encouraging advice. His wife tolerably well 
 over her hurt. 
 
 Went on through Newburg, a flourishing town on the North 
 River, and arrived at the house of Daniel Birdsall, in the 
 town of Platterkill. Dined there, and attended a meeting ap- 
 pointed for us at five o'clock. It was small ; but after a sea- 
 son of suffering and deep discouragement, light sprang up, and 
 I was favoured in testimony, to the peace of my own mind, and 
 I hope to the good of others. We lodged at Jonathan Tabler's. 
 He came from New Bedford, and appeared to be a valuable, 
 honest-hearted Friend, much in the simplicity of the Christian. 
 
 11th. Accompanied by Zephaniah Birdsall and Ann his 
 wife, we went to the house of Samuel Adams, a minister who 
 had laboured much among Friends and others in these parts. 
 In the afternoon had a meeting at Marlborough, where, after 
 deep baptism, my heavenly Helper enabled me to bear a faith- 
 ful testimony among them, to the relief of my mind. Took 
 tea at David Adams's, whose wife Mary is a daughter of 
 Naomi Halstead, a valuable minister. 
 
 Next day we went to Platterkill week-day meeting. It was 
 a small but satisfactory gathering, although Truth did not rise 
 high in dominion. Dined with Doctor Adnah Heaton and 
 Clement his wife, both ministers and valuable Friends. There 
 we met with Susanna Angeau, who entertained us with the 
 history of her remarkable convincement of the truth, and the 
 trials she had met with from the opposition of the priests. 
 Had a parting opportunity with them, in which a precious sa- 
 vour was felt, and rode to Alexander Young's, at Little Eso- 
 pus — the country and roads still very rough. 
 
 18th. Attended Little Esopus meeting, under much dis- 
 couragement and depression of spirit. Micajah Collins had 
 had a meeting there the day before, and I feared lest there 
 might be a letting down the dignity of Truth, but it was a good 
 meeting. 
 
 This afternoon, accompanied by Alexander Young, went to 
 Roscndale Plains, and put up at John Van Norstrand's. Still 
 under much discouragement and deep exercise. Find that 
 Huldah Hoag had a meeting here on second-day last ; Mica- 
 jah Collins another on third-day; on fifth-day was their week- 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 175 
 
 day meeting ; and to have another on my accomit to-morrow, 
 ■ seemed trymg, on account of the fr(5quency of calling the peo- 
 ple together, and my poor, stripped mind depressed. How- 
 ever, I endeavoured to be patient, and put my trust in my 
 heavenly Helper. 
 
 If any one, young in the ministry, out on a first journey 
 among strangers, should happen to read these lines, humbled 
 and bowed down under a care and concern, lest Truth should 
 suffer, and loss be sustained to the precious cause, let him or 
 her patiently dwell under the baptism, and wait to feel all the 
 will of the creature laid low, and they will find help in the need- 
 ful time from Him who is ever mindful of his humble, depend- 
 ing little ones. 
 
 On the 14th still very much depressed. I went to the 
 meeting appointed, when light broke forth and dispelled the 
 gloom, Truth reigned triumphant over human weakness, and 
 I believe some of those present thought it was not a meet- 
 ing too much. Blessed for ever be the name of the Shepherd 
 of Israel. 
 
 Our kind friends Zephaniah Birdsall and wife came seven- 
 teen miles to sit with us at this meeting, and thus showed their 
 imity with us, and were a comfort to my tried mind. I make 
 this note to encourage others to faithfulness in a similar line 
 of duty. It may seem small, but the good is not a little to 
 the tried traveller. 
 
 The meeting at the Plains is chiefly composed of the chil- 
 dren and descendants of Jacob Coutant. He and his wife, 
 though very aged, were present at our meeting. Their de- 
 scendants are about one hundred grandchildren, and twenty 
 great grandchildren. 
 
 At four o'clock in the afternoon had a meeting at Paltz, 
 those dear friends and others accompanying. Thither also 
 came our friends, Doctor Adnah Heaton and wife, and we were 
 mutually refreshed in a tendering opportunity together. 
 
 Next morning, in company with Gideon Mollineaux, we set 
 out early for Thomsontown. Had good level road great part of 
 the way to Bloominburg, through a settlement of Dutch Presby- 
 terians. The great western turnpike from Newburg to the Lake 
 country passes through this flourishing village. We followed 
 
176 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 it ten miles, and then struck off three miles to Daniel Parry's, 
 a new settlement, consisting chiefly of Connecticut emigrants, 
 who are Methodists. Four families have been convinced of 
 Friends' principles, and hold a meeting once a week. 
 
 16th. Had a meeting in Daniel Parry's little log-house, of 
 perhaps forty or fifty people, and it was a profitable, favoured 
 opportunity. If faithfulness is abode in by the few Friends 
 here, I have no doubt there will be an increase of members 
 gathered here, and a meeting established before many years. 
 Oh ! that such lights and way-marks may be multiplied among 
 the people, and that the exalted testimony to the simplicity of 
 pure spiritual worship may be spread among the nations. 
 
 This is a newly settled part of the country, with very heavy 
 timber, hemlock, maple, &c., and a luxuriant growth of grass 
 almost as soon as cleared. After dinner, being furnished with 
 bridles and saddles, we set out and travelled through the 
 woods, which were very thick, and only a rough horse-path 
 most of the way, nine miles, to a meeting appointed at Green- 
 field. Here Friends have a meeting-house, and a preparative 
 meeting is about to be established. We had a very satisfac- 
 tory opportunity among the people; a number of Presbyte- 
 rians and deacons attended, and were very quiet and attentive 
 to the doctrines of Truth there delivered. 
 
 We stayed the night at Joseph Washman's, after a labori- 
 ous though favoured day's work. Here we had the company 
 of Phebe Carpenter and Caty Ballou, just returned from a 
 settlement of Friends further west. 
 
 Next morning, before sunrise, we set out and went back to 
 Daniel Parry's, where we took breakfast, and then went on 
 alone in our carriage toward Bloominburg. Had a thought 
 of having a meeting there, but felt easy to proceed on to 
 Montgomery, a considerable village or county town on the 
 Waalkill, and thence to Newburg, where we crossed the North 
 River, and found our way to Robert Newlin's, at a mill on 
 Fishkill Creek. These Friends are located here alone, sixteen 
 miles from Friends' meeting, and six children growing up to 
 an age that needs good society. My heart felt for them. 
 Oh ! that all under the name of Friends would let their lights 
 shine before and among men, that so, through their bright 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 177 
 
 and consistent conduct, example, and conversation, Truth 
 may spread and prevail in the earth. 
 
 18th. Set out from Robert Newlin's alone, and travelled 
 sixteen miles to Enoch Borland's ; took dinner, and went with 
 him, his wife, and brother Samuel to select preparative meet- 
 ing at Oswego. It began at two o'clock. Here met with 
 Edward Stabler and Roger Brooke, and Daniel Ilaviland. 
 Dined at James Congdon's with a large circle of Friends, 
 and passed the afternoon there. Next day attended Oswego 
 monthly meeting. It was dull, long, and trying. Edward 
 Stabler and Micajah Collins laboured among them, while my 
 lot was suffering silence. Afternoon, went to Nine Partners, 
 and attended monthly meeting there the day following. Each 
 of these monthly meetings held about five hours ; though little 
 business, except answering five queries, and not many remarks, 
 or much time spent with them. They appeared to move slow, 
 and with too little life, energy, or right zeal among them. 
 Suffering silence was again my portion, and therein I had 
 peace. 
 
 Here I learned that a few convinced members, residing at 
 a place called Canaan, in Connecticut, have been indulged 
 with holding a meeting for worship, for some time, under care 
 of a committee. The committee have visited and reported 
 till the subject has become flat and dry ; and now they were 
 almost ready to drop it. It is a practice in this Yearly Meet- 
 ing to continue such meetings, under care of committees, for 
 years. If Truth were sufficiently sought and attended to, 
 monthly meetings need not be worn out with sending commit- 
 tees ; but where there was life and religious weight, or the sta- 
 bility of Truth even among the few, meetings would be much 
 earlier set up, and more in the life than, it is to be feared, is 
 now the case. Friends also would be less disposed to reason 
 on consequences, and look at probabilities, which appears to 
 be one cause of these long delays. 
 
 21st. Accompanied by Isaac Thorn and Anna his wife, 
 Trip Mosher, Sarah Collins, and Abigail Everingham, we had 
 a meeting at Chestnut Ridge. It was small, and I found it my 
 place to bear a close and plain testimony in relation to love 
 and unity in families, meetings, and neighbourhoods, and to 
 12 
 
178 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 stow the need there was for parents to govern their families 
 and children under the influence of Divine love. We dined 
 at the house of a Friend whose wife was not at the meeting. 
 They have a little boy who is about two years and a half old, 
 and he is uncommonly active. The mother, wanting him to be 
 still, soon got into a state of impatience because he did not 
 obey her commands, at first threatened and then proceeded to 
 blows to compel him to be silent. My heart was affected with 
 the entreaty and remonstrance of her daughter Caroline, a 
 precious child about thirteen or fourteen years old. Her 
 mind had been tendered in the meeting, and the testimony 
 borne against parents correcting their children under the in- 
 fluence of impatience or passion, rose fresh in her mind on 
 this occasion. She spoke to her mother with meekness and 
 affection, endeavouring to dissuade her from such harsh mea- 
 sures, and I was ready to wish (as I have no doubt the daugh- 
 ter did) that the mother had been at the meeting. Ah ! how 
 often people make difiiculties for themselves and their chil- 
 dren, by the imprudence of their commands and the conflicts 
 of their passions. 
 
 Here considerable openness of mind was felt, and in the 
 evening we had a religious opportunity with the family, I hope 
 to profit. Lodged here. 
 
 Seventh month 22d. — Having dear old Trip Mosher for a 
 guide, we attended a meeting appointed at a place called " The 
 Branch," where but few assembled. It is harvest-time in this 
 part of the country, and the people do not seem much dis- 
 posed to leave their work to go to meeting. This may not be 
 marvelled at among others ; but even among Friends a number 
 absent themselves, although in their outward appearance they 
 are plain. I have also noticed that the young people among 
 Friends, though generally under a plain dress, yet do not 
 manifest so much tenderness and solidity of deportment as 
 might be expected ; there is a rawness among them that is 
 not according to the discipline of Truth ; yet, notwithstand- 
 ing, there are many precious minds among the youth, and 
 those further advanced in years, if I have a right sense and 
 judgment of them. 
 
 At this meeting, small as it was, I had a testimony of much 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 179 
 
 tenderness and encouragement to a tried state, and the ex- 
 ample of Elijah and the widow of Sarepta was opened and 
 held up to view, as also the need and importance of a full 
 dedication of heart, and example of uprightness and consist- 
 ency of character with our holy profession, to be held up as 
 a light among the people in these parts of the country. We 
 dined at John Wing's. His wife Miriam has acceptably ap- 
 peared in the ministry for some time ; but the practice of 
 Friends in New York Yearly Meeting, in relation to officially 
 acknowledging gifts in the ministry, is slow and deliberate ; 
 and young ministers are often left alone, for many years, to 
 the discouragement, and, I fear, the dwarfishness of some. 
 Such is the case under consideration. Surely there is a feel- 
 ing in the pure Truth when life answers to life ; and if he 
 that believeth maketh not haste, neither does he pursue or 
 rest in an opposite extreme. 
 
 Next day was at a very large meeting at Oblong. It was 
 believed two-thirds of those gathered were not Friends or 
 members. It was, in the early part of it, a very trying meet- 
 ing to me. At length I had to bear testimony against a state 
 of great unfaithfulness, and in close and cogent language was 
 led to hold up to view the danger of standing out until " the 
 house was left desolate," and the things that belong to the 
 soul's peace forever hid from the eyes of the disobedient. It 
 was the closest and most trying public labour that I have 
 lately, if ever, had in the line of the ministry ; but after get- 
 ting through with that part, the opening turned to an affec- 
 tionate call to the young people present, to embrace the Truth 
 in their eaidy years, before evil habits and prejudices had esta- 
 blished their sway, and while their minds were susceptible of 
 tender impressions, and not yet rendered callous through dis- 
 obedience and repeated acts of unfaithfulness. May the 
 labours of this day be blessed to the help and encouragement 
 of all who were present. 
 
 In the afternoon, I had a good open time with Presbyte- 
 rians and others, at a meeting five miles in Connecticut, held 
 in a school-house at a place called Leach's Hollow. William 
 Leach, his wife, and their ten children were all at this meet- 
 ing. I reminded Anna, the eldest, (perhaps about sixteen,) 
 
180 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 of the importance of her station as leading the way, and the 
 younger following. 
 
 Minerva Sherwood, a Presbyterian, teaches the school. 
 She appears to be an amiable young woman, and I felt most 
 easy to take notice of her as she is among strangers. I un- 
 derstood she boards a week or two at a place, among her em- 
 ployers, according to the number of children that each sends, 
 and has seven shillings a week for teaching the school, some- 
 times near forty scholars, and so down to twenty or twenty-five. 
 I felt regret that Connecticut, famed for its attention to, and 
 encouragement of useful learning, should so " grind the faces 
 of the poor." This young woman will get about twenty-three 
 dollars for her summer's toil, when she should have much 
 more. But custom reconciles their hills and rocks and other 
 hard fare, as we would account it. 
 
 24th. Took Anna Leach in our carriage for pilot, and rode 
 to New Milford, in Connecticut. Only ten families of Friends 
 compose this meeting, and much of the country is poor, rough, 
 and stony. The meeting we had was larger than some where 
 more Friends reside, and it was a favoured opportunity, 
 wherein the necessity of Divine revelation was held up to 
 view in order to our being truly religious, as there could be no 
 true religion without the knowledge of God, and no knowledge 
 of God without the revelation of his. Spirit : and hence no true 
 and acceptable worship but what arises from the influence of 
 his Holy Spirit. Doctrines largely flowed in the openings of 
 life and in the demonstration of the Spirit, after a time of 
 great stripping and poverty of spirit, evidencing that all my 
 springs are in Him in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom 
 and knowledge. 
 
 I here met with a Friend who appears in the ministry, but 
 is not recommended. He opened to me his concern for a num- 
 ber of towns and places in Connecticut, where, he says, there 
 are some humble, seeking minds, but in his situation he cannot 
 appoint meetings among them. I pointed out to him that 
 where Truth opens the way for private labours of love, such 
 acts of dedication are often blessed, and may prove a greater 
 blessing than more public labours for the help of one another. 
 Such little visits, privately made to humble, seeking minds, 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 181 
 
 were within every one's reach, when Truth led thereto, and I 
 encouraged him to attend to them. New Milford is the phxc* 
 where Benjamin, Da\dd, and Zachariah Ferris former!}^ lived. 
 Here I met with Benjamin Piatt, who has lately become a 
 member among Friends, and afipears much interested in the 
 welfare and cause of Truth. In relation to his convincement, 
 he told me in much simplicity, " One thing I know, that 
 whereas I was blind, now I see." He appeared to be fifty or 
 sixty years old. 
 
 Trip Mosher is yet with us, and his company is agreeable, 
 entertaining, and instructive. He has been a faithful servant, 
 and although, in recounting old times, he seems to lament the 
 loss of many worthy instruments that have been removed since 
 his memory, yet he is comforted in viewing the spreading of 
 Truth and the success of the labours of faithful Friends. He 
 also has a peculiar talent for circulating Friends' books and 
 pamphlets, and in this way has evidently promoted the great 
 cause by thus spreading a knowledge of the principles and tes- 
 timonies of Truth. 
 
 On the 25th had a favoured meeting at the Valley, in which 
 testimony was borne by way of illustrating the Christian path, 
 under the similitude of the roads in this country, sometimes 
 rough, stony, hilly, sometimes more smooth, level, and easy, 
 but the traveller must persevere on his journey. Again, the dis- 
 ciple must often examine his own state and condition, and review 
 himself, by looking in the mirror of Truth to see how his ac- 
 counts stand — comparable to the daily use of the looking-glass. 
 The frequency of washing, and sometimes being weighed in 
 an even balance, also brought into view as figures illustrative 
 of the true Christian's experience in the work of renovation. 
 A hope was felt that it Avas a season of profit to some minds, 
 and thus all must be left to Him who uses such means as his 
 wisdom and goodness sees meet, for the help and furtherance 
 of his children and people. To Him be the glory. 
 
 We called at the habitation of Daniel Haviland, who was 
 gone on a religious visit toward Pennsylvania. We had a reli- 
 gious opportunity with his wife, his son Daniel and Esther his 
 wife, his son John, and another son, Ebenezer, and his tender- 
 spirited wife and daughter Sarah. It was a comfortable sea- 
 
182 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 son. Then went a rough road over the highlands to Daniel 
 Quinby's, at Apoquage, where we lodged. 
 
 Next day was at a very exercising meeting at Apoquage. 
 Jonah's disobedience to the Divine command, and the sad con- 
 sequences, were held up to view," and the youth were affection- 
 ately addressed and encouraged to faithfulness. To me it was 
 a season of close trial, and much discouragement pressed upon 
 me. The assembly was mostly composed of those not mem- 
 bers of our society, and I had anticipated a very different line 
 of communication, if any were called for from me. But as I 
 cannot form or plan out a religious concern for myself, I find 
 it best, when a concern cometh in the openings of life, to be 
 obedient, however it may be as a rough path to travel in. 
 
 The doctrine of yesterday was now applied to my own case, 
 and in centering down to the Divine gift, and endeavouring to 
 keep with it and in it, I felt peace in the honest discharge of 
 what arose before me as my duty to deliver. Oh ! how careful 
 ministers should be to avoid making likenesses or images of 
 things to please themselves ! Dined at Daniel Quinby's, and 
 thence to the cheerful, hospitable dwelling of Enoch and Abi- 
 gail Dorling, at Beekmantown, where we lodged. The day 
 following had a comfortable meeting at Beekman. In my mi- 
 nisterial communication I reminded the people of the advan- 
 tage of love, and of united labour in their meetings for the 
 arisings of light and life. In the afternoon had a meeting at 
 Oswego ; more laborious at first, but Truth arose into domi- 
 nion, and it ended well, under a solemn covering, and Friends 
 appeared to be refreshed by the visit. Took tea with Dorothy 
 Golden, who has been an afflicted woman. She was much jos- 
 tled and tried by the Baptists ; even after she had joined 
 Friends, her parents had her immersed in water. Oh ! when 
 will all these shadows disappear ? I had enlarged on the ab- 
 surdity of predestinarian notions in the meeting at Oswego, 
 and Dorothy told me that once she would have rejoiced to have 
 had the subject so clearly opened to her tried mind. She has 
 a precious gift in the ministry of the gospel, and appears to 
 be a very kind and useful woman. She accompanied us to 
 Stephen Moore's, where, after a precious opportunity of reli- 
 gious retirement in the evening, we tarried the night. Ruth, 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 183 
 
 the wife of Stephen Moore, is daughter of Jonathan Clark, 
 who lives with them, and has been blind near twenty years. 
 The occasion of which, as it may prove a caution to others, 
 was related as follows : Jonathan Clark and some other neigh- 
 bom-s had been at a store on some business in the evening, and 
 were all ready to go home, when one of them took a candle to 
 look for a small bundle that had been laid on a shelf over a 
 closet where they kept the powder, and it was supposed some 
 snuff of the candle had fallen through a crack of the shelf into 
 a keg of powder under it, for instantly the whole store was 
 blown up, there being several other kegs of powder there, of 
 28 lbs. each. The man who had the candle was killed, being 
 shockingly mangled and torn. When Jonathan Clark first 
 came to himself, he found he was in the cellar, and the chimney 
 had fallen on him, but they dug him out, and he came to, 
 and recovered, but could see only a little Avith one eye, and 
 this little soon became totally dark, so that he could not dis- 
 cern whether it was day or night, and has so continued. Surely 
 such awful circumstances, in the dispensations of an all-wise 
 Providence, must have a deep and important lesson of warn- 
 ing or instruction in them. 
 
 A hired girl, named Mary Smith, who lives in this family, 
 and has lately been received into membership, appears to be a 
 valuable young woman, of a tender spirit and improving dis- 
 position. This note may encourage others of that useful class 
 whose province of labour is much confined to the duties of the 
 kitchen, and waiting on the family. It may also be well for* 
 ministers and others travelling in the service of Truth, and to 
 promote the welfare of the human family, to be mindful of 
 such, and of all others in the useful business and aS'airs of 
 life. A kind look, a kind word, in the gentle, feeling motion 
 of Truth, may be of incalculable value to such. 
 
 28tli. At two meetings — West Branch in the moi'ning and 
 Pleasant Valley in the afternoon. The latter was large, and 
 owned by the overshadowing of heavenly Goodness, to the 
 comfort and refreshing of some minds. 
 
 Next day, went to Poughkeepsie. Notice had been sent on 
 to have a meeting appointed there at eleven o'clock. But a 
 few busy trading Friends at that place thought it an unsuit- 
 
184 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 able time, as it was market day, so had not spread the notice. 
 A number of Friends from Oswego, Branch, and the Valley, 
 had come to attend the proposed meeting at Poughkeepsie, 
 but being thus disappointed some of them went home, others 
 stayed. Some of our company proposed our going on and 
 leaving the town ; but I felt for the people who had had no 
 hand in the contrivance and policy of those to whom it was 
 intrusted to spread the notice ; and these were chafed in their 
 minds as though conscious of defect in their duty. On the 
 whole, I thought it best to propose a meeting early in the 
 afternoon. A small company attended, but it was satisfac- 
 tory to retire in the quiet after the morning's jostle, and I 
 left them with more complacency and peace of mind than if 
 no meeting had been appointed. Some Friends, I trust, 
 learned a lesson that will be remembered to profit. 
 
 30th. Attended meeting at Nine Partners. It was a large 
 gathering of people, but a season of laborious exercise to me. 
 My soul "desired the first ripe fruit," but it seemed as if 
 " there was no cluster" to feed upon. In endeavouring to dwell 
 with the gift, I had some close doctrine to communicate to the 
 people. If we ask why it is that in large meetings, composed 
 principally of Friends, the labour in the ministry is often 
 harder than among strangers, and even those of other socie- 
 ties ? it may be that we ourselves may furnish a part, at 
 least, of a cause for this. Our expectation and hopes may 
 have been formed on a plan of our own choice, to enjoy the 
 ^'cluster" that cheers and makes glad the heart, when we 
 have no right to choose for ourselves at all ; and therefore 
 the disappointment may be more keenly felt, and, without 
 great care, may sink the mind into discouragement. Again, 
 in many places Friends may be full-fed with preaching, and 
 therefore not hungry enough to labour for their own bread, 
 yet are willing to live and feed on the labours of others, pro- 
 vided the ministry suits their taste. In such cases, it is no 
 marvel that the livingly baptized instrument finds hard work : 
 " The full soul may loathe the honeycomb, while to the hun- 
 gry, seeking soul, even comparatively bitter things may be 
 sweet." 
 
 In the afternoon had a religious opportunity with the chil- 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW TOKK. 185 
 
 dren at the boarding-school; and then attended a meeting 
 appointed at Howard Tompkins's. It was composed of many 
 sorts and conditions of people, and was a favoured season. 
 Next day was at a large and interesting meeting at Crum 
 Elbow, in which the practical doctrines of the Christian reli- 
 gion were held up to view, and the people invited to the living 
 substance. It was, I hope at least to some present, a memo- 
 rable opportunity of profit. Called at Mark Coffin's board- 
 ing-school, took tea, and had a meeting with the children and 
 family. Lodged at Paul Upton's ; and the day following was 
 present at a large meeting at Stanford, which held till near 
 two o'clock. It was attended by several persons who had not 
 before been seen at a Friends' meeting, together with a large 
 number of Baptists, Methodists, and all the men from a neigh- 
 bouring factory. It was a good meeting, and among the doc- 
 trines held forth, the danger of resting in the first beginnings 
 of a religious life was opened and illustrated by reference to 
 the preparatory dispensation of John the Baptist, as the 
 beginning of the gospel of Christ, but not the perfection of 
 it. The audience were pressingly exhorted to a continuance 
 and perseverance in the inward work and life of the religion 
 of Jesus Chi'ist, to the complete salvation and sanctification 
 of the soul. Divine wisdom and goodness graciously fur- 
 nished matter adapted to the understandings of the people, so 
 that even the factory men and others were edified and in- 
 structed in the language in which they were born. May all 
 praise and glory be ascribed unto Him who was thus mindful of 
 his heritage. 
 
 Dined at Henry Hull's, and had the company of a large 
 circle of dear friends in the afternoon. 
 
 Eighth month 2d. — My companion, having a sore eye, tar- 
 ried at John Hull's, while I went with Henry Hull and Sarah 
 his wife, and other Friends, to the Creek meeting. On the 
 way, called at the house of James and Kuth Hallock, who 
 kept a boarding-school for girls. These family schools, when 
 properly conducted, are better suited for the education of 
 Friends' children than large public boarding-schools. A large 
 assemblage of people was gathered at the Creek or Stone 
 meeting-house, but it was an exercising season, and it felt to 
 
186 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 me that more faithfulness is wanting among Friends there. 
 The meeting, however, ended with satisfaction ; after which, 
 their preparative meeting was held. Dined at Paul Upton's ; 
 and, after parting with a large circle of Friends in near aifec- 
 tion, I rode with Henry Hull and wife to Job Peckham's, at 
 Little Nine Partners, twelve miles. The country here much 
 more hilly and rough than about Stanford. Next morning, 
 feeling pensive and lonely, I w\alked out some distance and 
 retm'ned. On our way to meeting, we called at Nathaniel 
 Meed's. He had a daughter who was paralytic, and could 
 not speak nor use her right hand at all. She could knit with 
 her left hand, and with a staff or crutch could walk about the 
 house, though very crippling. She often had spasms or 
 fits, but was a sensible, intelligent young woman, of per- 
 haps thirty years of age. Two or three years ago, and 
 since being in this helpless state, she requested by signs to be 
 admitted into membership with Friends, and she was accord- 
 ingly received. She appeared to be a pious, improving young 
 woman. 
 
 The meeting at Little Nine Partners was small. The ob- 
 ject of my public labour was to show, that " Godliness was 
 profitable unto all things, having the promise of the life that 
 now is, and also of that which is to come." But my mind 
 obtained little relief from the labour, and remained closed up 
 in a suffering state. We dined at Jephtha Wilbur's, whose 
 daughter Mary appeared to be a meek-spirited, precious young 
 woman, and manifested her kind attention to us while there. 
 Thence we travelled over a rough road to Charles Hoag's, at 
 North-east, where we had a full meeting at five o'clock in the 
 afternoon. Although a number of the young men on first 
 taking their seats behaved lightly, they were very quiet and 
 attentive before meeting closed. I had a free, open time on 
 various important subjects that opened before my view, espe- 
 cially the duty and happiness of remembering our Creator in 
 the days of youth — the necessity of early dedication — the im- 
 provement of time — its uncertainty — and the need of all dili- 
 gence in endeavouring to live the life of the righteous, in 
 order that our death and latter end may be like theirs. I 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 187 
 
 trust, to some minds, it was a season not soon to be forgotten. 
 To Heaven be the praise. 
 
 My companion, with our carriage and a number of dear 
 friends from Stanford, met us at North-east. Next morning, 
 being the fourth of eighth month, Henry Hull and wife and the 
 other Friends left us, and we set forward accompanied by our 
 dear old faithful friend Trip Mosher, who has been steadily 
 with me for nearly two weeks past. We travelled a turnpike 
 road through a rough country, and about one o'clock arrived 
 at Ezra Donald's, at a place called Canaan, near the west 
 corner of the State of Connecticut. A few Friends reside 
 here, and hold an indulged meeting, under the care of a com- 
 mittee of Nine Partners monthly meeting. After dining, I 
 walked out alone, being deeply tried, even to weeping, for 
 I felt lonesome, but tried to be patient and composed. At 
 five o'clock we had a small but favoured meeting there. 
 Several Presbyterians and Methodists were present, and 
 appeared tender. A young man named Spalding walked 
 from the meeting with me, and was very tender in spirit and 
 desirous of instruction ; said he had just begun to lead a reli- 
 gious life, but had not joined any society. Another seemed 
 to want to speak to me, but was so deeply affected that he 
 could only press my hand significantly, for his full heart for- 
 bade the utterance of words. 
 
 Most of the Friends who live here are newly convinced.. 
 A few years ago, eleven of them, who had become wearied 
 of the formalities of the Presbyterians, separated from them, 
 and met together for their mutual edification. In these 
 opportunities, they sometimes read the Scriptures, and some- 
 times sat in silence. After a while, two of their neighbours, 
 who had removed to Ohio, and there become convinced of 
 Friends' principles, returned to them, and found them ready 
 to receive and embrace the same views. They soon after 
 applied to Nine Partners monthly meeting, and were received 
 into membership. My mind was turned toward the neigh- 
 bourhood, believing there is a tender seed in those parts ; but 
 discouragements prevailed, and I saw no way to press through 
 them, so as to appoint another meeting. Next morning, after 
 lodging at John Camp's, in a very poor, rough, rocky place, 
 
188 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 about four miles from Canaan, we proceeded on our way to 
 Hartford. The country still hilly and stony, with here and 
 there a pleasant village ; but in most of them I noticed large 
 steeple-houses, or places for worship, painted and finished off 
 in an expensive manner — exciting in my mind the painful 
 reflections that these costly buildings, and the maintenance 
 of the priests, are a grievous burden on the poor inhabitants, 
 who appear beset to live comfortably in this sterile country, 
 without such oppression. Oh ! when will the light of the 
 free and glorious gospel of Christ be received by the rational 
 family of mankind, so that all this darkness and needless 
 expense may be done away, and the people be brought to the 
 free teaching of the Spirit of Truth ! My heart mourns for 
 the inhabitants of this land ; but I saw no way open to 
 appoint any meetings among them. 
 
 After travelling about forty miles, we arrived at Levi Ar- 
 nold's, near Hartford. His wife Lydia is an approved 
 minister — being the same person that signed the Testimony 
 of Providence monthly meeting concerning Job Scott, as 
 clerk of that meeting. Next day, being first-day, the sixth 
 of eighth month, we attended Hartford meeting, which was 
 small ; yet I found some openness for religious labour. Only 
 a few Friends reside in this neighbourhood, surrounded by 
 Presbyterians, whose priests have so much influence over their 
 hearers, that, though notice was circulated of our being there, 
 yet very few of them came to our meeting. I felt much sym- 
 pathy toward Friends, and then proposed to have a select 
 opportunity with them in the afternoon. But they appeared 
 indifferent about it, and no one seemed disposed to open the 
 way ; perhaps one reason was, that several of them intended 
 setting out to go to the quarterly meeting at Nine Partners, 
 to which they belonged. So I passed the afternoon at Le^d 
 Arnold's, in pensivcness and discouragement, under an appre- 
 hension that the Friends who reside here do not sufficiently 
 consider the importance of their standing firm and consistent 
 with their profession, in order to advance the cause and testi- 
 monies of Truth in that place. It was here that Richard 
 Jordan resided for four or five years, and some other Friends 
 have done in like manner. It is a beautiful part of the coun- 
 
Chap. VII.] TRA^TILS IN NEW ENGLAND. 189 
 
 try — fine, level, fertile land — three miles from the city of 
 Hartford, on Connecticut River. 
 
 Here Trip Mosher left us, in order to return to his quar- 
 terly meeting at Nine Partners. He had been our faithful 
 pilot and agreeable companion for two weeks past, or upward. 
 He is a valuable elder, and his mind deeply engaged in con- 
 cern for the welfare of his fellow-creatures and the promotion 
 of the cause of Truth and righteousness. His heart seems 
 expanded in the love of the gospel, with great openness 
 toward all, and especially the Presbyterians, among whom 
 (as well as others) he often distributes books and pamphlets, 
 of a character tending to enlarge their views and enlighten 
 their minds, — a service for which he appeared to be Well 
 qualified. His wife deceased about two years since, and Trip 
 now resides at the Nine Partners boarding-school. Being 
 engaged in no particular business, he devotes himself to the 
 services of Society, and loves to travel among his friends, 
 and be usually employed in doing good, without being 
 oflScious or burdensome to any. We felt a degree of mutual 
 regret at parting. 
 
 7th. Having Elisha Gilbert for a guide, we set out early, 
 passed through Hartford city, and crossed Connecticut River 
 on a famous bridge. Found the eastern part of the State less 
 hilly than the western and not so stony, but the soil generally 
 thin and poor. Travelled near fifty miles to Rowland Green's, 
 at Plainfield, and were welcomed by these kind Friends. In 
 this day's contemplative ride, my mind was filled with much 
 love and good-will toward the inhabitants of this land. 
 
 8th. In company with Rowland Green and his daughter, 
 we visited the three families of Friends that compose Plain- 
 field meeting. John Monrow residing here, and being con- 
 vinced of Truth, with his family, the monthly meeting, out 
 of tenderness and sympathy toward them, appointed a meet- 
 ing with them once a month — they living near fifteen miles 
 from any meeting of Friends — an example worthy of con- 
 sideration in like cases. 
 
 After visiting these families, we rode to Beriah Collins's, 
 in Rhode Island State — twenty-two miles. Next morning, 
 after a religious opportunity with this family, (the children 
 
190 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 mostly not members,) in company with B. Collins and one 
 of his seven daughters, we went about nine miles to Scituate 
 week-day meeting. It was small, but satisfactory. Dined at 
 Elihu Bowen's, whose wife was sick. Had a meeting in her 
 chamber, in which her tried state of mind was particularly 
 ministered unto ; and a number of Friends being present, it 
 was a profitable season. May the praise be ascribed to Him 
 who gives wisdom to his humble, dependent children. 
 
 10th. Attended Providence mid-week meeting. My mind 
 much stripped and tried, so that I could scarcely refrain 
 from weeping. At length, in much brokenness and contri- 
 tion, testimony was borne to the Truth, in labouring to stir 
 up the pure mind in the few Friends present, to a more 
 faithful dedication of heart to the Divine will and requirings, 
 now in this time of outward peace and tranquillity — that so 
 the kingdom of Christ may be promoted in the earth, and the 
 gracious designs of his calling us to be a spiritually-minded 
 people answered. I was also led to caution Friends against 
 worldly-mindedness, and mingling with a business spirit, that 
 involves the mind in pursuits after wealth, in order to make a 
 show and appearance conformable to the vain customs of the 
 world. I hope some of those present felt the force of some 
 remarks that were made, in order to stir up one another to 
 more diligence in attending religious meetings, and other 
 duties. 
 
 After dining with William Almy, we set out toward New 
 Bedford, finding it safest to stand resigned to go to Nan- 
 tucket, notwithstanding I had hoped to be released therefrom. 
 Passed through Warren and Bristol, considerable towns, and 
 over part of Rhode Island, to Joseph Barker's, at Tiverton, 
 where we tarried the night. Next morning, after being 
 detained by rain till ten o'clock, we travelled through a bar- 
 ren, stony country, over rough roads, to New Bedford, where 
 we were kindly received and courteously entertained by that 
 wealthy, yet humble-hearted, hospitable Friend, William Botch. 
 
 12th. This morning we went on board the packet, Silas 
 Parker, a Friend and seafaring man, being captain. The 
 wind being calm, we sailed slowly on the glassy surface of the 
 bay till near three o'clock in the afternoon, when the wind 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 191 
 
 sprang up fresh from the east, directly ahead of us, and the 
 sky became overcast with clouds. We were now not more 
 than a fourth part of the way to Nantucket, and could not 
 reach the island by daylight ; and as a storm appeared to be 
 gathering, the captain concluded it safest to tack about and 
 return to New Bedford, as he had no accommodations for 
 lodging the passengers on board. So, with a brisk gale of 
 wind, we had a pleasant sail back in about two hours, and we 
 again put up with our kind friend William Rotch. 
 
 13th. The Nantucket packet sailed this morning, but I felt 
 most easy to stay and attend Friends' meeting at New Bed- 
 ford. In both forenoon and afternoon meetings, I had con- 
 siderable service in the ministry; the gatherings of people 
 were large and solid, and I felt satisfied in attending them. 
 
 Next morning, I attended a meeting at Accushnet, ap- 
 pointed at my request. It was not very large, but my mind 
 was led to treat on the doctrine of silent spiritual worship and 
 gospel ministry in a peculiar manner. After meeting I under- 
 stood there were several Methodist ministers present ; and I 
 was led to admire the wisdom and goodness of God, in thus 
 qualifying to bear testimony to his Name and Truth. I hope 
 it was a season of edification and instruction. Dear old 
 WiUiam Rotch, his daughter Mary, and Samuel Rodman and 
 wife accompanied us. In the afternoon, attended an appointed 
 meeting at Long Plain. Considering the shortness of the 
 notice, it was well attended ; and utterance was given to some 
 views on education and forming the minds of children. It 
 was a satisfactory opportunity. Lodged at Obadiah Davis's. 
 
 15th. Having endeavoured to feel after the mind of Truth, 
 and carefully to weigh the subject of going to Nantucket, 
 this morning my mind felt released from that concern, and we 
 set forward toward Boston, accompanied by Obadiah Davis, 
 and Ruth his wife, both in the station of ministers. Had a 
 pleasant day's travel over smooth, level roads, through much 
 poor land, forty-three miles to Boston; and as no Friends 
 reside there, we put up at a boarding-house. In the evening, 
 my mind was impressed with a belief, that there is in Boston 
 a remnant of the seeking seed of Jacob, and if sought out and 
 visited in their lonely abodes, might be encouraged and 
 
192 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 brought forward to profess the Truth. It also appeared to 
 me, that a private labour of love in this way would be more 
 likely to be useful in gathering this seed, than the holding of 
 large public meetings. But I felt no commission to engage 
 in such a visit at this time. 
 
 Next morning we set out early, and were at their week- 
 day meeting at Lynn, in which I had most of the public ser- 
 vice in the ministry; though Obadiah Davis and Ruth also 
 appeared in testimony. It was a large and favoured meeting. 
 Micajah Collins was also present, having just returned from 
 a sixteen months' journey southward. In the evening, we 
 had a religious opportunity in the family of Isaac Bassett, 
 Jun., where we lodged. The day following, we attended 
 Salem week-day meeting. After a season of deep exercise, 
 life arose into dominion in a close searching testimony on 
 these words, "For the divisions of Reuben there were great 
 searchings of heart." Reuben was the fii'St-born, called "the 
 beginning of strength," but through instability he could not 
 excel. As in the case of the army of Israel, when there was 
 an "accursed thing" concealed among them, they could not 
 stand before their enemies, so the "wedge of gold," though it 
 might enter but by a small thin point, yet wherever concealed 
 in the tent of the heart, would in time divide and part asunder; 
 and thus the pm-e seed of life would be oppressed. It was 
 further opened, that, however specious and high the standing 
 of such might be outwardly, it was needful a thorough search 
 should take place, in order that unity and harmony might be 
 restored. After this, I had a word of tender sympathy and 
 encouragement for the dear children of my heavenly Father, 
 ■who have been under suffering, or may have to suffer in this 
 place ; and the meeting ended well. 
 
 In the evening, had a crowded meeting at Lynn. It held 
 three hours, and I hope the public labour was to profit in 
 many minds. 
 
 18th. This morning we visited two schools, and had a re- 
 ligious opportunity with an afflicted widow and her family. 
 In the afternoon, attended a meeting appointed at my request 
 at Marblehead, a town about five miles from Lynn, where no 
 Friends reside. This meeting was held in a large Presby- 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 193 
 
 terian meeting-house; and when we arrived, the bells were 
 rung to call the people together. Micajah Collins, Obadiah 
 Davis, and myself occupied the pulpit, and great quietness pre- 
 vailed among the people during the silent part of the meeting. 
 Divine help was mercifully vouchsafed, and all fear of man 
 was taken away after I rose on my feet. An impressive com- 
 munication was listened to with great attention and solemnity ; 
 and a number of the people after meeting expressed their 
 satisfaction in terms of sincere feeling. There was cause to 
 believe it was a seasonable opportunity; as no Friends' meet- 
 ing had been held in the town for several years past. 
 
 We were informed, that before the late war and embargo, 
 eleven hundred of the inhabitants of Marblehead were engaged 
 in the cod-fisheries. But the troublesome effects of the war with 
 England having deprived many of them of all their means of 
 making a livelihood, some enlisted in the army, some took to 
 running or smuggling in goods, and many of them were lost 
 or slain in battle. As a testimony of these grievous bereave- 
 ments of husbands and sons, many of the women were dressed 
 in "mourning apparel," and there are many orphan children 
 among them. Oh ! the miseries and mischiefs of war ! After 
 the meeting at Marblehead, we returned to Salem with our 
 kind friends William and Lydia Dean, where we lodged. 
 
 Next morning, set out eastward ; passed through several 
 villages and towns, over good, smooth, level roads generally, 
 about thirty miles, to Joseph Philbrick's, at Seabrook, formerly 
 called Hampton. Here we tarried the night ; and on inquiry 
 I found we were in the neighbourhood where Comfort Collins 
 lives ; she is the aged Friend whom Matthew Franklin visited 
 a few years ago, and some account thereof has been circulated 
 by means of his letter in manuscript. Joseph Philbrick was 
 with Matthew at that memorable meeting, and related the cir- 
 cumstance. He also gave an account of Nathan Hunt's visit 
 to Comfort Collins, when Nathan told her that through her 
 ministry he was first awakened, &c. Her name was then 
 Comfort Hoag. But we were told that now she is so entirely 
 like a child, that there is no satisfaction in seeing her, and 
 that she appears to have no knowledge of any thing, more 
 than an infant. 
 13 
 
194 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 On first-day morning before meeting, I proposed going to 
 see her ; and in company with William Brown and Rebecca 
 Dean of Salem, went about two miles to Josiah Dow's, where 
 Comfort Collins lives. Here again, we were told of her being 
 entirely like a child, without sense or understanding. I 
 thought this was intended to discourage me from seeing her ; 
 but at length we had permission to go into her room, and loo^: 
 at her as she was lying in bed, for she did not sit up much, 
 they said. When we went in and sat down by her, she held 
 out her hand to us ; and, looking earnestly at us, said she did 
 not remember to have seen us before. She then inquired of 
 me where I lived? how far it was off? but had no remem- 
 brance that ever she had been in Pennsylvania. After a 
 silent pause, she said, "The Lord, he is God, and blessed is 
 the " here her voice seemed to sink away and be unin- 
 telligible ; but a young man present thought she meant to say 
 "blessed is the ma7i that trusteth in him." She frequently 
 turned her head and looked at me very innocently, asked 
 whether I had a wife? any children? and whether these, 
 (meaning William and Rebecca) were my children? After 
 asking a few questions, and repeating part of a Scripture text, 
 she would pause for a few minutes, complain of cold, and ask 
 her nurse to make a good fire, for she was tired of lying and 
 wanted to sit up; then, in a short time, again look in my 
 face and ask some questions a second time, as where I lived? 
 what was my father's name? &c. She then said she was 
 very old. Although her hearing was much impaired, and her 
 ideas and intellectual powers appeared to be very faint and 
 feeble, yet I could not discover such total childishness as had 
 been stated; and there was a peculiar innocence, calmness, 
 and quietude, that appeared in her countenance and manner 
 of expression, and manifested that the spiritual life was unim- 
 paired by the decay of the natural faculties and powers. By 
 the side of Comfort Collins on the same bed, lay Elizabeth 
 Dow, aged upward of ninety-one years. She appeared to be 
 much brighter in her mental faculties, though her hearing was 
 also impaired. She was quiet and silent ; but when I men- 
 tioned being more than three hundred miles from home, she 
 raised up her head, and said, "It was a great way off." We 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 195 
 
 were told that she is very desirous to live every day in a 
 state of constant preparation for death. At parting, she 
 grasped my hand very forcibly ; and with a very earnest look 
 and much feeling, entreated me to remember her. She held 
 my hand a considerable time, seeming as though she wanted 
 to say more, but her full heart lacked utterance in words. 
 At the same time, perceiving that we were about to leave 
 them, Comfort Collins put out her feeble hands, and grasped 
 my other hand very feelingly, saying twice over, " I wish 
 thee well," ^^ I wish thee well." To me, this interview and 
 parting with these aged women was exceedingly interesting 
 and instructive, and some deep and lasting impressions were 
 made on my mind. The loss of hearing, of memory, and of 
 all the bodily and intellectual powers and faculties, what is it, 
 if, happily, in the vigour of life, these gifts and talents have 
 been improved? An evidence of this happy eflfect was fur- 
 nished to my perception as I sat by these aged probationers, 
 now nearly ready to be gathered home. I felt myself amply 
 rewarded for the labour of going to see them. They were a 
 text and sermon that have left a precious and lasting lesson 
 of comfort and instruction to my soul. 
 
 I was informed that Comfort Collins will be one hundred 
 and five years old if she should live to the loth of tenth month 
 next. It is in the counsels of inscrutable Wisdom that she is 
 thus continued in mutability, no doubt ; and yet as I sat by 
 her, I could not but desire that she might be released from the 
 shackles of mortality, — to enjoy the fruition of that happiness 
 resulting from a long, a virtuous, and a useful life. 
 
 I may here add another instance of longevity in this neigh- 
 bourhood. On leaving the above-mentioned two aged women, 
 we went about two miles, and called to see Phebe Dow. Her 
 son called her, and with a short cane she walked into the room 
 with apparent ease, shook hands with us, and sat down. She 
 was so deaf that I could not converse with her, which I much 
 regretted, as we were told she has her perfect recollection both 
 of ancient and recent events. She said she was one hundred 
 years and three months old. She makes her own bed, waits 
 upon herself, and appears to enjoy herself, free from pain and 
 the usual infirmities of old age. Her eye and countenance 
 
196 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 bespoke a mind but little impaired by the load of a century of 
 years. On her taking leave of an aged man who had called 
 to see her, she said with apparent meaning and emphasis, 
 ^'■Faretvell ; and the only way to far e-iv ell is to do well." The 
 man appeared to be rather of intemperate habits, and the ad- 
 monition very applicable to him, as well as of general use. 
 
 In the morning, after these interesting visits, I attended 
 Seabrook meeting of Friends, and in the afternoon had a large 
 and crowded meeting of very good-looking young people, and 
 others, chiefly Presbyterians, at Almsbury. It was a precious, 
 favoured opportunity, though somewhat disturbed near the 
 close by reason of a thunder shower, and some leaving the 
 meeting. Next morning had a meeting at Newbury at ten 
 o'clock. Very few Friends belong to this meeting, and they 
 live scattered and remote. But a number of solid, good-look- 
 ing Presbyterians, with a flock of children, came in, and we 
 had a comfortable opportunity together ; after which we re- 
 turned to Salem. 
 
 23d and 24th. Attended Salem quarterly meeting ; and in 
 the evening, at my request, a meeting was appointed for the 
 inhabitants of the town generally. It began at seven and held 
 till ten, and was a season to be thankfully remembered by 
 many. Next day we travelled about twenty-four miles to 
 Caleb Page's, at Haverhill. Here we had some prospect of a 
 meeting, but the notice having failed of being spread, we felt 
 most easy to go on to Benjamin Folsom's, at Epping. 
 
 I feel best satisfied to preserve a little account of Caleb 
 Page and family, as it may possibly be of use to some other 
 inquiring minds. Isaiah, his son, a youth of perhaps sixteen 
 years of age, being of a retired and thoughtful turn of mind, 
 wanted much to go to a Quaker meeting, but was discouraged 
 by his parents, who were Baptists. Isaiah, however, did not 
 feel satisfied with attending the Baptist meetings, and there- 
 fore repeatedly importuned his parents to let him go to one 
 meeting of the Friends. At length they consented to his re- 
 quest, but his father must go Avith him to take care of him, 
 being only a boy. There being no Friends' meeting nearer 
 than Almsbury, ten miles from their dwelling, one first-day 
 morning they both set out on foot and walked thither. It was 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 197 
 
 a small and a silent meeting ; but the result was, that in this 
 silent meeting the son, Isaiah, was confirmed in what he had 
 before felt in his mind to be the Truth, and the father was 
 convinced of Friends' principles. The mother has also been 
 convinced of the Truth, and all three are now members. 
 
 I may add, Isaiah, the son, is a very serious, solid-looking 
 youth, and the parents appear very sincere, full of love toward 
 Friends, and as though they could not sufficiently manifest it. 
 Although they have not yet changed their dress, nor even 
 learned the plain language of Friends, yet, I think, I never 
 met with a more hearty welcome to the best a house afforded, 
 and they were all very anxious that I should have a meeting 
 with their former fellow-professors of that place. 
 
 On seventh-day, the 26th of eighth month, we had a consi- 
 derable gathering of people at Epping ; then went on to 
 Dover and lodged at Marvel Osmond's. On first-day morn- 
 ing, went on and attended Berwick meeting, in Maine, and in 
 the afternoon, accompanied by eight or ten chaises, with 
 Friends, we went to a place called Oak Woods, where Friends 
 usually hold their meeting in a school-house. But there being 
 many more people gathered than the house would hold, the 
 Baptists offered their meeting-house, about a hundred and 
 fifty rods off, for our accommodation. This kind offer was 
 accepted, and we all went to it in a flock ; the Baptists also, 
 and their minister attended, and we had a very large gather- 
 ing. I humbly hope it was a profitable season to many minds. 
 
 On second-day morning we rode to Kittery, twelve miles, 
 and had a small meeting there. I trust it was a good one to 
 some present. In the afternoon had a large meeting at 
 Dover, a considerable business town in New Hampshire. Two 
 priests attended, and sat directly before me, with a lawyer 
 between them. I was mercifully raised above all fear of man, 
 to declare the word of life among the people. The priests 
 were serious and attentive, but the lawyer seemed to " care 
 for none of these things." The meeting was eminently 
 overshadowed with Divine goodness, and was a blessed oppor- 
 tunity. 
 
 At this meeting I met with dear old Mehetabel Jenkins, and 
 she appeared in supplication near the close of it, in a very 
 
198 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 lively and powerful manner. She is in her eighty-fifth year, 
 and may truly be said to be "green in old age" — retaining her 
 love to Truth and to faithful Friends, and possessing her 
 natural faculties with much clearness. She has travelled 
 much in the service of the ministry, besides crossing the ocean 
 and visiting Europe. She has been a woman of affliction. 
 Her husband died while she was from home on a religious visit 
 to the Southern States, and of eight children she has only 
 two left. But in retrospect of her bereavements and various 
 other trials, she adopts the testimony of the Psalmist : " It is 
 good for me that I have been afflicted;" to which she adds this 
 testimony to Divine goodness and mercy : " His rod and his 
 staff have been my support." 
 
 We spent the evening with her very interestingly ; and on 
 third-day she rode with us in our carriage eleven miles to Lee, 
 where we had a large meeting, composed principally of Bap- 
 tists, notice having been voluntarily spread by their minister 
 at the close of their meeting on first-day previous. After I had 
 had a very open time in testimony, dear Mehetabel appeared 
 in supplication, and the meeting closed under a precious 
 savour of life. As I was passing out of the house, I stopped 
 to shake hands with two serious-looking men, who were pro- 
 bably Baptists, and appeared to be waiting for that purpose. 
 Several Baptist women also appeared desirous to speak to me, 
 and I stopped, while Friends and our company went out of 
 the house. The first woman to whom I offered my hand 
 seized it with expressive meaning, and thus addressed me : 
 " Dear brother in Christ, your God is my God, and your reli- 
 gion is my religion. Oh ! the precious unity of spirit that I 
 feel with you, and with the doctrine you have preached to us 
 to-day. I bless God that I am here. I pray the Lord to 
 bless you, and prosper your labours in the gospel :" with 
 much more to this import ; and the two men who stood by 
 several times said Amen to her expressions. I replied to her 
 that it was a precious thing to feel the unity of the spirit, and 
 that it was best to enjoy it in quietness. She said: "Yes, 
 but I must speak and declare the goodness of God to my soul 
 this day. Oh ! bless the Lord with me that he has sent his 
 servant to preach the gospel to us," and thus, raising her voice 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 199 
 
 SO loud that the people gathered round the door and in the 
 house to see and hear what was gohig on. Several other 
 females were much affected, and stood by with tears flowing, 
 I found I could not prevail with the first one to be still, so I 
 shook hands with several of the others, who were mostly silent, 
 or their expressions short. A general seriousness appeared 
 in the countenances of old and young, and I became sur- 
 rounded by weeping women, and the crowd increasing around 
 me. Having in vain endeavoured to quiet the first, I made 
 my way out of the house as well as I could, and went to a 
 Friend's house a short distance off, but not out of hearing of 
 her voice. The poor woman, in expressing her feelings of 
 satisfaction and gratitude, became so overpowered by her ner- 
 vous sensibility that she could not recover herself nor become 
 composed for nearly half an hour ; her strain of utterance 
 being chiefly in singing praises, and calling on others to join 
 with her in the acknowledgment of Divine Goodness and the 
 favours of the meeting. A number of the Baptists stayed with 
 her till she got calm and quiet ; but, poor creature, I was afraid 
 she would lose all the good she had gained. Had she stopped 
 after some of the first expressions, she might have felt com- 
 fortable ; but by giving way to the vocal utterance of her 
 grateful sensations, her animal system became so overpowered 
 that she could not command herself. To Divine compassion 
 and care I left her. 
 
 Another of these serious Baptist women followed us to the 
 Friend's house where we dined, and spoke much of the 
 extraordinary favours of the meeting, and of her own state 
 described — also the encouragement derived from the opportu- 
 nity. Two young women were with her, who appeared very 
 tender ; they also were Baptists. 
 
 Here I saw renewedly the need of firmness and stability in 
 the Truth so as not to be moved, nor the animal sympathies 
 allowed to prevail over a sound discretion. No self-compla- 
 cency can be claimed by the poor instrument, and nothing 
 ascribed to the creature. Sensible of this, I felt myself to be 
 but as an unprofitable servant, and in deep humility and grate- 
 ful acknowledgment of Divine kindness and help, ascribed all 
 the glory, honour, and praise to his adorable name. 
 
200 JOUKNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1815. 
 
 On fourth-day morning this precious aspiration livingly 
 clothed my mind : 
 
 " This day thy favouring grace be nigh, 
 So oft vouchsafed before ; 
 Still may it lead, protect, supply, 
 And I that hand adore :" 
 
 And it was peculiarly verified in my experience this day at a 
 meeting at Rochester ; and in the afternoon we had another 
 at Upper Rochester. To the first we were accompanied by 
 dear old Mehetabel Jenkins. She appeared in a lively testi- 
 mony, and it was a favour to have her company and instructive 
 conversation. 
 
 During the afternoon meeting at Upper Rochester, there was 
 a thunder-shower. When we came out of the house, an elderly 
 man spoke to me, and invited me home with him. He said he 
 had just hauled in a load of wheat as it began to rain, and 
 felt as if he must come to our meeting, and that he was glad 
 he was here. He further said he united with my testimony, 
 and that it was the Truth. He wished me to be encouraged in 
 my travels and religious labours for the good of others, be- 
 lieving a blessing would attend them. On inquiry, I found 
 he had been much opposed to Friends, insomuch, that when 
 one of his sons was convinced of Friends' principles and 
 received into membership, he said he considered him lost, and 
 would not come himself to Friends' meetings. But now, he 
 told some Friends after meeting, that if he could hear such a 
 discourse every first-day he would come to meeting. 
 
 Ah ! how many are looking outward and loving to be fed 
 with words, while the inward sense and life is too much over- 
 looked and neglected. And yet all-gracious Goodness often 
 condescends to meet the low, carnal, and outward state of 
 men, by means adapted to their condition, in order to help, to 
 exalt, and to lead them to the living substance. Thus, as in 
 the case of this old man, some new views appear to have 
 crossed his mind — some new ray of light illumined his dark 
 opinions ; and who knows but this may in mercy be the begin- 
 ning of his salvation, and the means of his return to the 
 heavenly Father's house ? 
 
 Ninth month 1st. — Yesterday had a favoured meeting at 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 201 
 
 New Derham. Few Friends reside here, but there are some 
 seeking, inquiring minds in these parts, if my perceptive feel- 
 ings are right. 
 
 Jeremiah Dow, an aged Friend of eighty-seven years, ap- 
 peared in testimony in this meeting ; he appears zealous for 
 Truth, and concerned for the good of his fellow-creatures. 
 His mental faculties and physical powers are remarkably 
 strong and vigorous. To-day a meeting was gathered at 
 Joseph Varney's, at Wolfborough, on the borders of Lake 
 Winnipesogee. It held till after one o'clock, and I had 
 cause to "thank God and take courage." We then went to 
 Sandwich, New Hampshire, about twenty-one miles, having 
 Benjamin Fry as pilot. Lodged at Cyrus Beedy's, a valuable 
 plain-hearted, ministering Friend. Next morning, visited a 
 sick woman and two aged people. The feeling, sympathetic 
 traveller on gospel service, will often find peace and instruc- 
 tion in being mindful of these two classes of our fellow-pro- 
 bationers. 
 
 On first-day morning, the 3d of ninth month, we attended 
 the meeeting of Friends at the north house. Sandwich. No- 
 tice having been widely spread, it was a full meeting, and 
 continued till near half-past one o'clock. A large number of 
 other societies attended, and the exercise of my mind turning 
 on the subject of worship, I was led to give them some views 
 on vocal music, that were not in accordance with commonly 
 received opinions as exhibited in the practice of some Chris- 
 tian professors, and also to enlarge on the propriety and ne- 
 cessity of mental silence, in order to perform spiritual worship 
 with acceptance to Him who regards the heart more than vocal 
 sounds. 
 
 Taking a little refreshment, we hastened to a meeting ap- 
 pointed at the south house. Travelled a very rough road, and 
 arrived at four o'clock, when we found a large collection of 
 people gathered at a Baptist meeting-house not far from that 
 of Friends. General notice having been spread, it was soon 
 perceived that Friends' meeting-house would by no means hold 
 the multitude, so the Baptists generously ofiered their large 
 building. The gathering of people was so great, that it looked 
 as if this newly-settled country might be drained for seven 
 
202 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 miles round ; and yet, I was told, there was another meeting 
 held at the same time about three miles oflF. I may record it 
 with gratitude to my God, my helper and preserver, that it 
 was a favoured, open time in public labour among them, one 
 or two of their ministers being present. 
 
 Great is the openness of the people in this northern land 
 to attend meetings, and hear the gospel preached in the de- 
 monstration of the Spirit and with power. Many hungry and 
 thirsty souls seem to be seeking for the bread and water of 
 life to satisfy them, being weary of the husks of mere forms 
 and ceremonies. The evening of this day was agreeably 
 passed at Cyrus Beedy's, in a large circle of dear Friends, 
 and we had a precious cementing opportunity of religious 
 feeling together before parting, several hopeful young people 
 being present. 
 
 Next morning, ninth month 4th, there was a large frost, 
 which destroyed or injured abundance of Indian corn, pota- 
 toes, and other vegetables. Having our kind friend Benjamin 
 Fry for a pilot, we rode to Gilmanton, thirty miles, and next 
 day had a meeting there. It was a very rainy time, but the 
 people flocked in till the house was well filled, and it was a 
 good meeting, a blessed opportunity. Several Friends from 
 Pittsfield met us, yet we stayed here on account of the rain. 
 
 Ninth month 6th. — Still very rainy, but we reached Pitts- 
 field week-day meeting in good season, and found a very full 
 gathering, notwithstanding the storm. I could but pity those 
 mothers who came carrying their infant children to meeting, 
 but I found on inquiry that such were their circumstances 
 that they must either bring them or stay at home themselves. 
 Hence we often see a dozen or more infants at a meeting, but 
 they are mostly very quiet ; and I am glad their mothers thus 
 show their love to what is good by coming to meeting, even 
 with the care of their babes. 
 
 I had an opportunity of much openness in communication 
 at Pittsfield, and it was a season of renewed favour. After I 
 took my seat, a Fi'iend stood up and repeated that text of 
 Scripture, "Ho! every one that thirsteth!" &c. As he sat 
 down, a Free-will Baptist man added a few words sitting, and 
 then rose, expressing his unity with the doctrine and testi- 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 203 
 
 mony that had been delivered in the meeting that day, and 
 publicly acknowledging that he had felt it from his youth, he 
 declared that it was the Truth, and exhorted others to take 
 heed to it. He stood perhaps five or six minutes, and when 
 he sat down the meeting seemed in a sweet, quiet state. After 
 a proper pause, the usual signal was made for concluding the 
 meeting ; but before the people rose, or any stir was made, a 
 young woman stood up in the back part of the house, who by 
 her dress and manner did not appear to belong among Friends. 
 She spoke very deliberately and distinctly, I suppose, for 
 nearly a quarter of an hour. Her sentiments were good ; 
 and uniting with the truth of what had before been expressed 
 in the meeting, she very pathetically exhorted the people to 
 attend to the Divine principle within, and added the testimony 
 of her own experience to the efficacy and sufficiency of " the 
 grace of God which brings salvation." It was a testimony 
 that could be owned by Friends. 
 
 I was afterward informed that this young woman was one 
 of those called Free-will Baptists, who are opposed to Calvin- 
 istic notions. They also allow women to speak among them 
 in their meetings as well as men, and are a plain, exemplary 
 people. 
 
 After the testimony delivered by the young woman, a man 
 who sat on the stairs arose and added his testimony to the 
 Truth of what had been delivered in the meeting, acknowledg- 
 ing himself to be a poor creature, who could only say for him- 
 self, " God be merciful to me a sinner !" and then exhorted 
 his fellow-creatures to attend to what they had heard. We 
 were told afterward, that this man had been a very wicked, 
 drunken creature ; but had of late made some change for the 
 better, and now appeared sincere in his declaration. 
 
 Not knowing how many other confessions and testimonies 
 might be offered, when this man sat down, I mentioned that 
 it was now seasonable for the opportunity to close. And I 
 hope it was a meeting that will be profitable to many who 
 were there. We dined at Amos Peaslee's, and the Baptist 
 man with us. He seemed full of words, and I was afraid he 
 was too talkative for his own good. 
 
 We set out for Concord, eighteen miles, to attend a meeting 
 
204 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 appointed for us in tlie evening. When we arrived, though 
 about half an hour after the time, no person had come — all 
 was dark and gloomy — no lights, nor any thing prepared for 
 holding a meeting. I felt exceedingly discouraged. Only 
 three men Friends reside in Concord, and about a dozen 
 women, and they hold meeting in a private house. Our meet- 
 ing was to be in the court-house, the towns-people being 
 generally notified. At length candles were brought, and the 
 people collected ; so that it was a considerable assembly, but 
 a hard, laborious time. I delivered what was given me to 
 say to them, and as soon as I sat down the towns-people 
 generally rose and went out ; so little acquainted did they 
 appear with the order of Friends, or with the solemnity of 
 the occasion. 
 
 7th. Set out early, and travelled a rough road, eighteen 
 miles, to their week-day meeting at Weare, still in New Hamp- 
 shire. Arrived in season, and had some close doctrine to 
 communicate to a pretty large meeting, mostly Friends. 
 Next morning, at ten o'clock, had a large and favoured 
 meeting at the north house in Weare, near three miles from 
 the other. In the afternoon, at four o'clock, had a meeting 
 at Henniker to satisfaction, and lodged at Johnson Page's. 
 
 On seventh-day morning, in company with Daniel Gove, of. 
 Weare, and Ebenezer Breed, we set out for Unity and Ack- 
 worth, a little settlement of Friends near the borders of New 
 Hampshire. Next day being first-day, and notice having been 
 spread, we had a large meeting at the house of Thomas Da- 
 vis. Some came seven or eight miles, and it was a good and 
 edifying meeting. The people were very quiet and attentive ; 
 and though there appeared to be near twenty infants present, 
 they made very little noise, and it was comfortable to have 
 the company of their mothers at the meeting. 
 
 After meeting, I received a pressing invitation to appoint 
 a meeting next day about seven miles off; the man seemed 
 very desirous of such an opportunity, on account of his wife, 
 whom he could not bring to the meeting to-day, as well as on 
 account of his neighbours. On consulting my companion, he 
 did not unite with the proposal ; so I gave it up for the pre- 
 sent, — but believe it would have been better to have had a 
 
Chai'.VII.] travels IN NEW ENGLAND. 205 
 
 meeting there. Ah I these hungry, innocent minds ! the very 
 crumbs that fall from our table would be grateful to them. 
 Another sincere-hearted stranger wanted to give one of the 
 Friends who was with us a dollar to hand to me, as his free- 
 will offering, for he was sure we could not travel Avithout ex- 
 pense. The friend could hardly put him off, till he informed 
 him that we could not take pay for preaching in any way 
 whatever. Poor things L how my heart feels for them ! for 
 they indeed appear as sheep not having a shepherd, nor a fold 
 of safety and quiet, and seem to be hungering for the bread 
 of life. They are also very anxious to read Friends' books, 
 and what few they have are lent from one to another, and 
 read with great interest and attention. I fear there is a 
 great delinquency on the part of Friends in not distributing 
 books among the mass of inquiring minds, tending to lead 
 them to an acquaintance with the principles and testimonies 
 of Truth in themselves. I left them rather with a heavy 
 heart. 
 
 Ninth month 11th. — This morning, accompanied by our 
 kind friends Daniel Gove and Ebenezer Breed, we set out for 
 Montpelier, in Vermont, and travelled over hills and moun- 
 tains, about eighty miles. 
 
 On the 13th I had a meeting there, and another in the 
 evening, in the State-house, for the towns-people, which was 
 satisfactory to me, and appeared to be so to the people ; for 
 next morning, when we offered to pay our bill at the tavern 
 where we lodged, the landlord would not take any thing for 
 our entertainment. 
 
 Montpelier is the capital of Vermont, and is situated on 
 Onion River, about fifty miles from Lake Champlain, forty 
 from the Canada line, and twenty from Connecticut River. 
 The corn, potatoes, and vines are killed with the frost that 
 occurred on the 4th inst. It appears to be a cold country, 
 especially in winter. Here is a comfortable little meeting of 
 Friends, forty miles from any other. May they hold up the 
 light of Truth to those around them. 
 
 14th. After making due acknowledgments to our kind land- 
 lord, we set forward down Onion River, and had a level road 
 on a turnpike through one of the most hilly coimtries I ever 
 
206 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 saw ; but the road keeping near the river was good. Daniel 
 Gove and Ebenezer Breed still with us, as our kind com- 
 panions, which was a great comfort. May Heaven reward 
 them for their dedication. After travelling about fifty miles, 
 we put up at a tavern in a small village not far from Lake 
 Champlain. I felt much discouraged, and was somewhat un- 
 well, so retired early to bed ; but was waked about midnight 
 by the firing of a cannon or field-piece in the village ; and I 
 had little more sleep that night from the frequent firing of 
 the gun. Morning came, and I hoped to be delivered from 
 this unpleasant scene ; but just as I was carrying my trunk 
 out to be put in the carriage, a wagon-load of men with guns 
 came up, and three of them fired on the door-sill just by me, 
 so that the explosion almost stunned me. I found it was 
 what is called muster-day, and the firing of the cannon in 
 the night was by the boys of the village. Oh ! the evils and 
 depravity of every thing connected with war ! 
 
 We left them early, and pursued our way to the lake. The 
 wind blew quite strong, and finding we could not all cross it 
 at the same time, our kind friends Daniel Gove and Ebenezer 
 Breed left us, intending to return home by way of Lincoln. 
 Our carriage was put in a little shallow scow, to cross Lake 
 Champlain, (three miles wide,) to Grand Isle, and our horses 
 were taken by a boy through the lake, where the water was 
 nearly as deep as to their sides. The water was now uncom- 
 monly high, by reason of much rain ; for in common times it 
 is not more than knee deep, and the bottom may be seen all 
 the way. 
 
 We were landed, all alone, on Grand Isle or South Hero, 
 and our first inquiries were for Friends. We went on about 
 two miles, over very bad roads, and called at a house where 
 we found a woman Friend, who told us of a meeting 
 appointed that afternoon at a school-house near by. So we 
 put up with this family, being after ten o'clock, and we had 
 had no breakfast. This the Friend kindly supplied, and we 
 stayed to attend the meeting, which was appointed at the 
 request of old Elijah Hoag and his son Elihu, both ministers, 
 from Starksborough, in Vermont. Next day I had a meeting 
 at Friends' meeting-house on the west side of the island, and 
 
Chap. VIL] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 207 
 
 nearly opposite where a bloody battle was fought on the lake, 
 about a year ago, during meeting-time. It must have been 
 an awful, shocking scene ! Our meeting was satisfactory. 
 After dinner we crossed the lake to a place called Cumberland 
 Head, and went on through Plattsburg to Peru, twenty miles. 
 The roads being very bad, we did not arrive at James Ro- 
 gers's till eight o'clock in the evening. 
 
 In passing through Plattsburg, the ravages of the battle on 
 the lake were plainly visible. The houses were shattered 
 with cannon balls, and the devastation of war was marked 
 through the village. Oh ! when will the benign influence of 
 the gospel of peace and love prevail in the human family, to 
 the extermination of all wars and fightings, all contention and 
 oppression ? 
 
 17th. Was at a large and favoured meeting at Peru, in 
 New York State. In the afternoon visited a sick Friend, 
 and had a religious opportunity with him and his family, to 
 satisfaction. Then visited Jemima Keese in her chamber of 
 sickness. She is a valuable minister. Spent the evening 
 agreeably, and had a religious opportunity not soon to be 
 forgotten. My impression is that there are some valuable, 
 sincere-hearted Friends in this settlement. 
 
 Next morning we set out early, and passed over much bad 
 roads, about twenty-two miles down the west side of Lake 
 Champlain ; then crossed it where it was three miles wide ; 
 had a windy, rough passage ; and thence nine miles to Cor- 
 nelius Holbert's, at Ferrisburg, in Vermont. Here my mind 
 became very much depressed and discouraged ; but a meeting 
 being appointed at Ferrisburg at my request, I went to it. 
 It was a time of suffering, but I obtained some relief by 
 vocal testimony, and went on to Monkton. On fourth-day, 
 was present at their week-day meeting, but still in a state of 
 deep exercise and suffering. Afternoon, went to Starks- 
 borough. Roads still very rough, stony, and muddy. Put 
 up with Elijah and Elihu Hoag, and next day was at their 
 preparative meeting. Here Truth rose into a good degree of 
 dominion, and my mind felt some relief. After dinner we 
 rode to Lincoln, when we again met with Daniel Gove and 
 Ebenezer Breed. On sixth-day, had a meeting at Lincoln, 
 
208 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1815. 
 
 and it "was a precious season. These two last meetings 
 abound with preachers ; no less number than twenty-four 
 appear in testimony, many of them the relatives and children 
 of Joseph and Huldah Hoag. 
 
 22d. In the afternoon we travelled about twenty miles to- 
 ward Mount Holly, and put up at a tavern, my mind oppressed 
 and distressed, but had to labour for patience. Next morning 
 it was very rainy, but we rode six miles to breakfast. The 
 rain now increased, and the wind blew so violently that we 
 thought best to keep in the house till two o'clock in the after- 
 noon, when we again set forward and found the waters very 
 high. The storm continuing, we had to put up at a poor tavern, 
 where the waters were roaring around us, and our lodging- 
 room very damp. Having yet sixteen miles to reach Mount 
 Holly, on first-day morning we set out early, and found the 
 roads much washed, and the bridges swept away. With much 
 difiiculty and great exertions we arrived at the meeting there 
 awhile after eleven o'clock ; found a small company of Friends 
 gathered, and after all the toil we had a comfortable refresh- 
 ing opportunity with them. 
 
 It should be noted that our worthy and very kind friends, 
 Daniel Gove and Ebenezer Breed, continued with us through 
 all this toilsome and hazardous journey from Lincoln to Mount 
 Holly. Such disinterested attention and care toward strangers 
 demands my grateful acknowledgment, and tended closely to 
 unite us in brotherly feelings of harmony and peace. On 
 second-day morning we parted in much nearness of fellowship, 
 they returning to Weare and we going on to Danby. In our 
 journey we still found bridges washed away, and the roads 
 difficult, for the rain was unusually great here, and made a 
 mighty freshet. 
 
 9th month 25th. — About four in the afternoon we arrived' at 
 Stephen Rogers's, at Danby, and next day had a very large 
 meeting at that place, which held till near two o'clock, I hope 
 to profit. We are yet in a hilly, mountainous country, and fre- 
 quently see the clouds below the tops of the mountains. To- 
 day we saw at some distance on the side of a very steep hill, 
 or mountain, the appearance of a road cleared among the 
 trees, and were told it was made by a large rock, that having 
 
Chap. VII.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 209 
 
 been undermined, fell and rolled down the steep declivity, 
 breaking down and tearing up the trees in its passage, and 
 still widening the breach till it reached the bottom of the 
 mountain, where its road was about two hundred feet wide, and 
 it narroAvly missed a dwelling-house. The noise of this rocky 
 avalanche was like that of distant thunder, and occurred about 
 three years ago. 
 
 27th. I was at Granville week-day meeting ; the village of 
 that name is pleasantly situated just on the edge of New York 
 State. But very few of the villagers attended meeting, and 
 I was induced to think that very little notice had been spread 
 among them. But on one view of the case how can we won- 
 der ! A stranger, of whom they never heard before, coming 
 into a neighbourhood, and Friends not knowing who or what 
 he is, may feel indifference about notifying other professors, 
 especially if they themselves have not much concern for the 
 cause of Truth. But, on the other hand, when the order of 
 discipline is maintained, and a Friend in the ministry, though 
 ever so much a stranger, with proper credentials, comes into a 
 neighbourhood and feels a concern to see the people together, 
 a duty is laid on Friends to render what aid they can in for- 
 warding the object of religious concern. 
 
 It may be right to record that we had a good meeting with 
 the few present. Divine love spread among us and gave utter- 
 ance to a living testimony, accompanied with such baptizing 
 power, that induced a belief the Friends then were conscious 
 of their neglect, for it was proposed that I should have an- 
 other meeting in the evening. On considering this proposal, I 
 felt easy to leave them, and so set forward toward Queens- 
 bury. The way becoming very rough and difficult, we stayed 
 the night at William Moore's, at a village called Fort Ann, 
 and were very kindly entertained. Next morning we reached 
 the monthly meeting of Friends held at Queensbury, and had 
 a satisfactory opportunity with some dear friends there. The 
 unusually large number of little infants brought to this meet- 
 ing occasioned some interruption during the business part of 
 it, as it held long ; and the little creatures appeared to get 
 tired, and to require more nursing and attention than could 
 be bestowed on them in such a meeting. 
 14 
 
210 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1815. 
 
 29th. In company -with Joel Dean, we set forward toward 
 Easton, and arrived at Joseph Wilbur's in the afternoon, thirty 
 miles. On seventh-day morning, had a meeting at Easton. 
 Many of other societies attended, and heard the plain, simple, 
 practical doctrines of the gospel declared, in a manner to 
 which it is probable they had not been accustomed. In the 
 afternoon we rode twenty miles to Troy, and put up with 
 Abraham Staple and Lydia his wife, kind, agreeable Friends. 
 Next day, attended morning and afternoon meetings at Troy, 
 and found an interesting little company of Friends there. Oh ! 
 the importance of the upright and consistent example of faith- 
 ful Friends everywhere, but especially in trading and mer- 
 cantile towns and exposed situations. But, alas ! when Friends 
 fall into the corrupt channels of trade and business, and pur- 
 sue the world's wisdom and policy in making haste to become 
 rich, how great are the stumbling-blocks thus throAvn in the 
 way of honest, seeking minds ! and how mournful the conse- 
 (|uences ! 
 
 While in Troy I read the account of the awful hurricane 
 and storm in New England, which occurred while we were on 
 our way to Mount Holly, the 23d instant, exceeding any thing 
 known along the coast for extent of destruction of lives, build- 
 ings, vessels, trees, &c. 
 
 On second-day, the 2d of tenth month, we left Troy, and 
 passing through Lansingburg, crossed the North River over a 
 famous bridge to Watei'ford, and thence to William Carey's at 
 Half Moon Valley. Next day, I had an interesting meeting 
 there, in which the wing of Divine Goodness seemed to be 
 spread over us, I trust to the comfort of many minds. On 
 fourth-day we passed through Schenectady, stopping only to 
 see a woman Friend Avith whom I was acquainted, and went on 
 to Duanesburg, where we were hospitably entertained by Isaac 
 Gaige and family. Next day, attended a meeting at Berne, 
 and thence rode to Christopher Healy's at Coeymans. 
 
 My labours in these northern lands appeared now to have 
 come to a close. After resting here a short time, we prepared 
 for setting out homeward. Accordingly, on the 8th of tenth 
 month, after meeting, we rode to Athens and lodged. Thence 
 pursued our journey by way of Iiosendale Plains, Mont- 
 
Chap. VIII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 211 
 
 gomery, and Sussex, in New Jersey, to Ebenezer Wilson's, at 
 Ilardwich. Lodged there, and then went on to John Com- 
 fort's, at Solebury, in Bucks county ; and thence, on the 13th 
 of tenth month, 1815, we reached home, to the mutual joy and 
 satisfaction of our dear relatives, friends, and neighbours. 
 
 In this journey I was diligently engaged in the performance 
 of my apprehended religious duties for more than four months 
 and a half, and travelled, by computation, upward of twenty- 
 two hundred miles. 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 Eleventh month 21st, 1815. — Accompanied a committee of 
 the quarterly meeting to sit with Friends at Frankford pre- 
 parative meeting. Time of much sickness among them with 
 the influenza, and the meeting small and dull. Visited Mar- 
 garet Porter, who was very sick, but strong in spirit and ex- 
 pressed her desire that we might be kept under the Lord's 
 protection. 
 
 22d. Margaret Porter was released from the painful shackles 
 of mortality, aged about 95. A happy change, no doubt, to 
 her ! How comfortable the reflection, that after a long and 
 stormy day of probation her sun should go down in brightness. 
 
 23d and 24th. Attended Abington and Germantown pre- 
 parative meetings with the committee. 
 
 Twelfth month 6th. — Martha Adams departed this life in 
 the eveniijg, in the 46th year of her age. Her nativity was 
 in Bucks county, near Bristol, and thence she removed to By- 
 berry about the year 1790. Most of the remaining part of 
 her pilgrimage has been passed in this neighbourhood ; and 
 though she was afilicted with considerable and increasing diflS- 
 culty of hearing, and had no other means of support than 
 her daily labour, yet by her industry and frugality she had 
 saved and placed out to interest upward of five hundred 
 dollars, as a fund for the support of her declining years. Her 
 "wages were generally small, and her services of the laborious 
 
212 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1816. 
 
 kind ; but her mind appeared contented, and her movements 
 bespoke the cheerful Avillingness of her disposition to oblige 
 those who employed her; and if we may judge from the fruits 
 of her conduct and deportment, her mind must have expe- 
 rienced the realities of religion. This no doubt supported 
 her in the calmness of resignation through her sickness, so 
 that she spoke of her dissolution with as much composure as 
 if passing from one room into another, and even desired to be 
 gone to her eternal rest. Although obscure her path of life, 
 and much secluded from the advantages of social converse, 
 yet if her end was thus crowned with Divine favour, what 
 matters it though her memory may soon pass away, though 
 her loss may be less felt to survivors than some others, though 
 no marble may tell where she lies, nor poetry nor history 
 transmit her name to posterity — yet if her happy soul rests 
 in Abraham's bosom, all is well. 
 
 First month 10th, 181(3. — Alarge and solemn week-day meet- 
 ing, in which dear Mary Walton appeared in supplication. 
 
 Sixth month 13th. — Visited Sarah Watson, confined to her 
 chamber, and gradually verging to the solemn close. Found 
 her cheerful, though weak in body. Her mind appeared 
 clothed with the white raiment of innocency and calmness. 
 Her conversation interesting on subjects relative to the cause 
 of truth and righteousness. She mentioned a dream she 
 had the preceding evening of a passage in Scripture being 
 addressed to her, and which she could not recollect to have read 
 so as to know where to find it. It was this: " Let her alone, 
 she hath done what she could." A recurrence to circum- 
 stances connected with this Divine testimony of approbation, 
 I apprehend, must strike us with the forcible conviction that 
 this vision of the night is an evidence of her state of accept- 
 ance ; and that, as she has loved much, her sins are all for- 
 given, and her robes washed in the blood of the Lamb. " Let 
 her alone," let her rest beyond the reach of trouble; "she 
 hath done what she could," she hath been faithful in her hea- 
 venly Master's cause. Her work is done — her reward is sure. 
 Oh precious evidence ! an evidence that was felt by some of 
 us on her behalf, and that this shall remain to be " a memo- 
 rial of her." 
 
Chap. VIII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 213 
 
 Sixtli month 30th. — Sarah Watson departed this life, and was 
 buried the 2d of seventh month. On attending the funeral, 
 it appeared to be the practice of the neighbourhood to gather 
 in companies about the house and yard and enter into conver- 
 sation. My spirit "was grieved with this thoughtless practice. 
 At length, feeling the Word of Life arise, I stood in the door 
 and addressed the company. It was a solemn season, and I 
 trust this was not all lost. 
 
 In the latter end of the seventh month, obtained a minute 
 of concurrence from Friends of our monthly meeting to visit 
 sundry parts of Bucks county ; and in the eighth month had 
 a large, and to my own mind, a considerably satisfactory meet- 
 ing at Isaac Harding's among Presbyterians and others. 
 
 In the early part of the ninth month, attended Middletown 
 monthly meeting. Oh ! for a more living zeal in the cause of 
 Truth and support of Christian discipline. But, alas ! when 
 the spirit of the world predominates, how heavy the load to the 
 little, humble, exercised travellers. The natural understand- 
 ing, when it enters into the concerns of society, is active in 
 judgment, and determines according to appearances ; but the 
 Spirit must be waited for, or the labour is in vain, and profits 
 nothing. 
 
 Had a large meeting at Newport in this month, on first-day 
 afternoon, in which some important doctrines were opened, 
 and a hope felt that in some minds light shined. 
 
 In the tenth month, felt a motion of love toward the in- 
 habitants of Milford. A meeting was appointed in the school- 
 house on first-day afternoon, which could not contain the 
 people. The rising and spreading of light was opened and 
 illustrated partly from the circumstance of Bible societies 
 sending abroad the Scriptures without note or comment, and 
 thus implicitly confessing to the universality of the Divine 
 Spirit, as the best interpreter or expounder of those sacred 
 testimonies. 
 
 Eleventh month 3d. — Attended Newtown meeting in the 
 morning. Where courts a few years since were held, noto a 
 considerable meeting assembles. 
 
 Eleventh month 4th. — Attended Buckingham monthly meet- 
 ing of Eriends, and had some close labour in public testimony 
 
214 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1816. 
 
 among them. Next day had a large and favoured meeting at 
 Milton in the forenoon, in which doctrine and counsel flowed 
 freely to an attentive audience. In the afternoon had a small 
 meeting in a school-house at Bridgepoint, below Doylestown. 
 It was however satisfactory on the whole, though not at the 
 place designed, nor had the necessary information been timely 
 spread. Rode that evening to Jonathan Jarrett's, at Horsham, 
 and next day attended the select quarterly meeting. Fifth- 
 day, at our quarterly meeting at Horsham, had the company 
 of Emmor Kimber and Jonathan Evans. 
 
 Sixth-day, 8th of eleventh month, — Attended the Falls' 
 monthly meeting, accompanied by James Walton and Michael 
 Trump, who had been with me to Buckingham. 
 
 First-day 10th. Attended Makefield meeting, and in the 
 afternoon had a very large meeting at Yardleyville, held in a 
 mill. It was a favoured season. Called at Mahlon Yardley's, 
 and lodged at John Stapler's. Next morning, after an oppor- 
 tunity with his large family of daughters, went on to Jonathan 
 Balderston's. Had a little sitting with his afflicted daughter, 
 and then attended a meeting appointed for us at Joshua 
 Knight's, which was an eminently favoured season. Dined 
 with those humble Friends Zephaniah and Ann Mahan, and 
 returned home. 
 
 17th of eleventh month — At Bristol meeting in the morning, 
 and in the afternoon a large and favoured meeting at William 
 Headley's, three or four miles north-west. The poor in spirit 
 and the lost sheep of the house of Israel Avere tenderly visited 
 and encouraged. 
 
 24th. Went to Horsham. Attended meeting there in the 
 morning, and in the afternoon had a meeting at the Billet, 
 held in the meeting-room of what is called Loller Academy. 
 The people were quiet and attentive, and some relief was felt 
 in discharge of duty toward them. But more living zeal for 
 the Truth I thought was wanting among them. 
 
 Twelfth month 18th. — Attended Buckingham week-day meet- 
 ing, and had an evening meeting there, which was largely at- 
 tended. But by whom or by what means shall Jacob, the true 
 wrestling seed, arise into dominion in the soul, when so many 
 
Chap. VIII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 215 
 
 other seeds are either cultivated or carelessly suffered to grow 
 in the earthly minds of the children of men ? 
 
 The next day had a meeting at Doylestown, in the court- 
 house, after attending Plumstead week-day meeting. Little 
 may be recorded of these meetings further than as they fur- 
 nished an opportunity for discharging an apprehended duty 
 of love toward the people. That at Doylestown was trying. 
 Indeed, court towns and court-houses are often, by association 
 of ideas, or the general state of the inhabitants, places of hard 
 labour, and much oppression to that precious life which is sus- 
 tained by far different food than the life of covetousness sub- 
 sists on ; and yet there are minds even among those engaged 
 in the law, and busy politicians, who are tenderly visited by 
 the heavenly Father's love, inviting and calling them home to 
 himself as their greatest good. 
 
 On the 20th had a meeting at Joseph Smith's, up the river. A 
 favoured satisfactory season ; were satisfied a seed and savour of 
 life was visited, and the praise offered to Israel's unslumbering 
 Shepherd, ever mindful of the sheep of his pasture. In the 
 afternoon had another satisfactory meeting at Jonathan Heed's. 
 He is not a member among Friends, but one who loves the 
 Truth so far as to be willing it should spread and prevail. 
 
 Next day had a meeting among the Baptists, at Richard 
 Hough's. It was small, but some goodly people attended and 
 appeared satisfied. Not much openness appears among the 
 Baptists toward Friends. 
 
 The 22d we attended Solebury meeting in the morning, and 
 had a meeting appointed at New Hope in the afternoon. This 
 last was a pretty large gathering, and though many seemed 
 raw, and too little concerned for themselves, yet a considera- 
 ble number appeared serious and thoughtful, and as if an un- 
 derstanding was given them to take hold of some important 
 truths held up to their view. But, alas ! real, vital Christian- 
 ity appears to be choked by the cares of this life and the de- 
 ceitfulness of riches and the lusts of many other things, so 
 that the Light is not set in its proper candlestick in many of 
 the professors of the Christian name. 
 
 On the 23d we had a memorable meeting at William 
 Mitchell's, near Center Bridge. The solemnity prevailing 
 
216 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1816. 
 
 near the close was such that the people seemed unwilling to 
 depart. When this precious seal is Avitnessed, it is an evidence 
 that " the Lord knoweth" and revealeth himself to "them that 
 are his" seeking, depending children. P.M. — A meeting at 
 Lurgan among raw people. 
 
 The next day had a meeting at Joseph Watson's in the 
 morning, and at Benjamin Worthington's in the afternoon. 
 Both satisfactory, the latter in a neighbourhood where are a 
 number of the descendants of Friends, who, though remote from 
 meeting and seldom attend, yet have not lost the savour of 
 Truth. Many of the children among them much tendered, 
 and a general stirring up to serious thoughtfulness seemed to 
 prevail. It was a meeting not soon to be forgotten. 
 
 On fourth-day, the 25th, attended Wrightstown week-day 
 meeting, and many flocked in thither, evincing an inquiring 
 disposition. Divine goodness was near to feed the hungry 
 with good things. Had another meeting at this place in the 
 evening for the neighbourhood generally, to which they flowed 
 as largely as to a quarterly meeting. It seems like a mighty 
 shaking through this part of the land. May the Lord bless the 
 seed of the kingdom sown in the hearts of the people, so that 
 his own works may praise Him in the firmament of his own 
 power, while my soul bows in awfulness before Him who is not 
 wanting to qualify for the work of the day. 
 
 On fifth-day had a meeting at Richard Leedom's in the 
 morning. It was small, partly owing to a funeral in the neigh- 
 bourhood, which occurred about meeting time. It was how- 
 ever a good meeting. 
 
 In the evening of 26th of twelfth-month, 1816, had a meet- 
 ing at Newtown, which was largely attended, and a door of 
 utterance mercifully afi"orded ; but unless a door of entrance 
 be also opened by the Key of David, the word preached may 
 remain unprofitable to those who have ears to hear outwardly. 
 
 On the 29th attended Falls' meeting in the morning, and 
 had a meeting appointed at Morrisville in the afternoon, to be 
 held in a large school-house. But when we arrived there, the 
 house was occupied by a Baptist from Trenton. Being told 
 he was nearly done, as he had promised to leave the house for 
 our meeting, we waited without. But he went on with sing- 
 
Chap. VIII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 217 
 
 ing, repeating prayers, &c., till it was evident his object was 
 to frustrate our meeting, when, after half an hour's waiting, 
 a neighbour kindly offered his house, which was quickly pre- 
 pared, and we sat down in the quiet, and had a most precious, 
 cementing, tendering season together. The Baptist's hearers 
 came from his meeting to ours, one after another, and by 
 small companies, till it was said he was left nearly alone, and 
 then concluded his meeting. 
 
 Next day had a meeting a few miles west of this, at the 
 house of Joseph Paul, to which the people of that neighbour- 
 hood generally came, and numbers from a distance, and it was 
 an opportunity that may be profitably remembered by many 
 minds if they hold fast the impressions then made. May 
 Heaven bless and prosper the Divine work in the souls of his 
 visited children ; and oh ! that they would hold fast what they 
 have mercifully attained, and press forward. 
 
 Having left word to have an evening meeting at Middle- 
 town, particularly for the poor and the laborious class of the 
 neighbourhood, we stopped there on our way home, and found 
 by the great numbers attending that the information had be- 
 come general. Curiosity, or some far better motive, seems to 
 operate powerfully to draw people to these meetings. Oh! 
 that they may prove of lasting benefit to visited minds. 
 
 First month 5th. — Attended meeting at Pennsbury Ma- 
 nor, and the next day had an appointed meeting at James 
 Dungan's, up Neshaminy, among Presbyterians, Baptists, &c. 
 Peace flowed as the reward of dedication in thus endeavour- 
 ing to stir up the pure mind, and call the attention of my 
 fellow-probationers to the one thing needful, obedience to the 
 operations of the gift of God in themselves. The day follow- 
 ing had a meeting at Joseph Thornton's in Upper Makefield, 
 among a very raw class of people living along the river. The 
 line of communication was of a character, at first, to arouse 
 and draw their attention, and then to point out the necessity 
 of a life of conformity to the will of the heavenly Father, in 
 order that our latter end may be peace. It was apprehended 
 numbers of them had never been at a meeting before. Oh ! 
 the degrading influence of idle unconcern that too often pre- 
 vails among the lower class of people on the borders of rivers 
 
218 'JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1817. 
 
 and in petty villages ! And yet these were the class noticed 
 and visited, and many of them received the Divine Word, 
 when "Jesus was going about doing good." 
 
 On the 8th, had a meeting at Ilinkle's in Plumstead, which, 
 though not large, was a satisfactory opportunity. In the after- 
 noon of the same day, had a meeting among the Mennonists, 
 or Dunkers, at their meeting-house at Deep Run. This meet- 
 ing was somewhat exercising, as in my communication I had 
 to bear testimony against their mixing with the fashionable 
 customs of the land ; there being an obvious change, in a num- 
 ber of their members, from the plainness and simplicity of 
 appearance which I noticed among them when here with C. 
 Healy four or five years ago. However their young people 
 might have received the word of reproof and admonition, I 
 afterward learned that the elders among them had good 
 unity with my labours, and the plainness of my testimony to 
 the Truth. 
 
 On the 9th, had a meeting at a village below Doylestown, 
 usually called after a sign at a tavern there, the Turk. It 
 was a season of exercise, because the life of genuine religion 
 was oppressed by an earthly spirit in the minds of too many 
 of the inhabitants of this part of Bucks county. Oh ! when 
 will the Light be permitted to shine with clearness among the 
 professed followers of Him who said, " Ye are the lights of 
 the world!" In the afternoon, had a meeting at Ebenezer 
 Conard's, a few miles southward. It was a memorable season 
 to some minds. Light and life arose into dominion, and the 
 heritage or plants of the heavenly Father's right hand plant- 
 ing were watered. Oh, may they grow in the soil of hearts 
 sincere, while every noxious Aveed is rooted out by the power 
 of the cross ! 
 
 Next day had a very large, crowded meeting at Isaac Wal- 
 ton's in Warminster. This also was an opportunity not soon 
 to be forgotten. May the labours of that day redound to the 
 praise of the great Shepherd, who is bringing his other sheep, 
 not yet attained to the fold of safety and peace, that there may 
 be livingly known in the gathered soul " one fold and one Shep- 
 herd." After this again returned to my habitation ; stayed 
 a few days, and on the 16th was at the Manor meeting in the 
 
Chap. VIII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 219 
 
 morning, and in the afternoon had a meeting in the school- 
 house at Tulljtown. Have cause to be thankful for Divine 
 help in both these meetings. 
 
 On the 19th, though very cold weather, had an open, inte- 
 resting meeting at Jesse Randall's, near the Buck tavern. 
 The doctrine of the knowledge of God was opened and illus- 
 trated from the practical evidence of his Light and his Love, 
 as he is declared by the apostles, and reveals himself in these 
 blessed characters in the souls of his children. 
 
 The 27th had a large meeting at Joshua Bunting's, in 
 Bucks county, to the peace of my own mind ; making the 
 forty-sixth meeting attended in Bucks County since the open- 
 ing of this concern. 
 
 Second month 9th. — The events of a week past are marked 
 with some awful beacons of the uncertainty of time, and the 
 necessity of being duly on the watch, so as to have our ac- 
 counts in readiness for a final settlement. 
 
 On first-day, the 2d, a very large and disturbed meeting. 
 A woman was called out, occasioned by a child being much 
 burnt or scalded. Too many went out, and unsettled the 
 meeting. It was to me a painfully exercising time. Many 
 strangers were present, as it was sleighing time, and it 
 seemed as if many minds were only gathered in the outward 
 court, where they wanted to hear outward preaching. No- 
 thing was given me wherewith to minister to them. Fanny 
 Oram appeared in a few words, and a Friend spoke to the en- 
 couragement of the lambs fed by the Great Shepherd. John 
 Wood, from Kensington, also addressed the people on the 
 uncertainty of time. 
 
 Fourth-day. At select meeting, Hinchman Haines, John 
 Collins, and Mary Naftil attended. 
 
 Fifth-day. Quarterly meeting. Mary Naftil appeared in an 
 acceptable testimony. In the meeting, while answering the 
 queries, John Collins, after an excellent communication and 
 remarks made by him, was seized with a paralytic affection 
 and carried out of meeting. 
 
 Sixth-day. Richard Hall's wife, on a visit at Philadelphia, 
 died suddenly, and was this d;iy buried. Yesterday Richard 
 Claris was buried having died, after a short illness. 
 
220 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [18f 
 
 Seventh-day. Went to see John Collins, at George Y, ^1- 
 liams's, Abington ; found him sensible, conversable, and hope 
 that he will be restored. 
 
 Second month 11th. — Received the following account of 
 John Collins, still at Abington: — "As to his left side and 
 extremities, there appears no perceptible alteration. Yet our 
 beloved friend continues patient and resigned, and apparently 
 retains his mental faculties in full. This morning, he was 
 assisted to sit up in a chair while the bed was made. He in- 
 clines to partake of as much nourishment as his condition 
 requires, sleeps sufficiently, and we are looking toward a suit- 
 able time and mode of removing him homeward." 
 
 After this, John Collins was taken to his home near Moores- 
 town, New Jersey. 
 
 Seventh month 6th. — Visited Albertson Walton and wife. 
 Found the old man more serious and quiet than usual. Had 
 some hope that his last days may yet be some of his best. 
 He appears to have been a worldling, but declared he had yet 
 the Spirit. The visit was kindly accepted and acknowledged. 
 
 17th. Hannah Walton departed this life, aged about eighty- 
 seven years ; the last seven of which she was unable to walk 
 by a dislocation of the hip-joint, occasioned by a fall. But 
 though confined to her chamber, and deprived of the privilege 
 of attending religious meetings, her mind appeared to be pre- 
 served in innocent sweetness and patient quietude, as though 
 waiting for the solemn change, which, no doubt, is to her a 
 joyful one. On the day following, her remains Avere interred, 
 after a solemn opportunity at the house of her only remain- 
 ing brother, William Walton. 
 
 20th. Had a meeting in the afternoon at Asa Worthing- 
 ton's, for Smithficld. It was owned, as I apprehend, by the 
 putting forth of the Shepherd of Israel, going before, and 
 giving ability to follow the opening of doctrine and counsel 
 adapted to the states of the people, in a communication which 
 closed with the expression of a desire that none might be 
 " like a man beholding his face in a glass, and straightway 
 going away mniX forgetting what manner of man he was." 
 
 29th. Obtained a minute from our monthly meeting, to ap- 
 point a meeting at Groveville, near Crosswicks in New Jersey. 
 
Chap. YIII.] .JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 221 
 
 Also, to have some meetings -within the limits of our o^wn 
 Quarter. 
 
 Eighth month 3d. — Had a meeting at Groveville. It was 
 held in John Longstreth's mill ; was large, and the people 
 behaved well. Doctrine flowed freely, and it was an interest- 
 ing opportunity. '< He that hath an ear, let him hear." 
 Some of the obstructions to a distinct hearing with the spirit- 
 ual ear pointed out, among many other things. 
 
 24th. At three o'clock this afternoon, attended a meeting 
 appointed at James Comly's. It was large, and favoured 
 with the opening of the spring of gospel ministry, to the in- 
 formation and edification of some seeking minds. The wind 
 blowing high, and the men sitting out doors, required an ex- 
 ertion of delivery that affected my lungs for some days. 
 
 2oth. During a few weeks past, I attended the burial of 
 Thomas Webster's daughter, at Abington ; and though con- 
 
 O ? 7 o 
 
 trary to common custom among Friends there, detained the 
 company at the house while I relieved my mind in a pressing 
 communication on the solemn occasion. Mary Walton spoke a 
 few seasonable words at the grave, and no other meeting was 
 held. A few days after attended the funeral of Thomas Phipps, 
 at Abington, after which a meeting was held, but was dry and 
 dull. There needs improvement among Friends in the col- 
 lecting and attendance on such occasions. More quietude 
 and solemnity at the house of the deceased would be becom- 
 ing, and the frequency of holding meetings after interments 
 might be avoided. 
 
 Lately, a message was sent inviting my attendance at the 
 funeral of Amos Hawkins's wife, at Goosetown. I went alone, 
 and found my situation among strangers somewhat trying ; 
 but at length way opened to clear my mind, and the people 
 were quiet and attentive. 
 
 A few days after, a similar invitation was received to attend 
 the burial of Letitia Neal, a widow woman near the same neigh- 
 bourhood. This I felt a freedom also to attend, and it was a 
 time of renewed extension of gospel love to the company who 
 were collected on the occasion. 
 
 31st. Richard Jordan at our first-day meeting, silent. 
 
 Ninth month 3d. — Attended the funeral of John P. Ranten, 
 
222 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1817. 
 
 near the Buck. He had been declining for some months, and 
 within a few weeks past I visited him several times. He ap- 
 peared tender, and desirous of good, though his life had been 
 too irregular when in health. His last days, the days of 
 affliction, were no doubt most profitably spent in seeking for 
 reconciliation with God. I had an opportunity to clear my 
 mind to an attentive audience, and reminded them of the ne- 
 cessity of purity of heart in order to an admission into the 
 mansions of rest. 
 
 4th. Attended Abington week-day meeting, and bore testi- 
 mony to the necessity of keeping the eye single to the light, 
 that the whole body might be full of light. 
 
 7th. Had a meeting at Rowland's slitting-mill. It was at- 
 tended by a large number of people, and a hope was felt that 
 it was a favoured opportunity. 
 
 Tenth month 25th. — Attended the burial of my much va- 
 lued friend and uncle, John Watson, at Euckingham. He 
 departed this life, the twenty-third, in the afternoon, after 
 about a week's illness. Edward Hicks bore a precious testi- 
 mony to the innocence and meekness of his life, and that 
 when popularity offered her baits he resisted the temptation. 
 It may be truly said of him, — 
 
 "Amid the cool sequester'd vale of life, 
 He kept the noiseless tenor of his way." 
 
 Eleventh month 1st. — Oliver Paxson left this probationary 
 scene, the twenty-ninth of last month, and his corpse was this 
 day committed to the silent grave. Testimony was borne to 
 the excellence of that spirit that was in him, and a call to 
 survivors in the language of Young : 
 
 " He mourns the dead who lives as they desire ;" 
 
 referring to the constancy and petition of Elisha, when the 
 Lord would take up Elijah into heaven by a whirlwind. It 
 was a time of instructive solemnity, and a precious evidence 
 that the dear departed spirit now rests from his labours in 
 peace. 
 
 9th. This afternoon, had a meeting at Willow Grove. It 
 was not large, but appeared to be satisfactory ; was held in a 
 
Chap. YIII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 223 
 
 commodious house occupied as a tavern. Oh I for more heart- 
 felt zeal in the cause of vital Christianity ! When ■will the 
 children of men be wise in heavenly knowledge ? 
 
 First month 16th, 1818. — Attended meeting for sufferings 
 in Philadelphia. 
 
 17th. Set out for Plymouth, and arrived at Isaac Williams's 
 in the evening. Next day attended Plymouth meeting, and 
 sounded an alarm to the lukewarm and careless. In the after- 
 noon, had a meeting near Flowertown, at Joseph Phipps's. 
 It was attended by a considerable number of neighbours, and 
 though not the most easy, yet laboured to some relief among 
 them. Lodged at Ezra Comfort's, and next day (19th) at- 
 tended the burial of Rebecca Shoemaker, daughter of Jacob 
 Albertson. She was taken away in her prime, had been 
 married about a year, and left an infant about two months old. 
 For two or three days previous to her close, she appeared 
 (when not delirious) to be in heavenly ecstasy of divine enjoy- 
 ment, and an assurance of a crown of glory, for her a happy 
 change from earthly trials to heavenly rewards. The funeral 
 was attended by a large concourse of people, and a meeting 
 held on the occasion. Rachel Rowland and Sarah Wilson 
 of Philadelphia appeared in testimony. Dined at John Wil- 
 son's, and felt a savour of life in his company. This after- 
 noon James Walton, who had accompanied thus far, left mo 
 and went home; accompanied by Ezra Comfort, Jun., had an 
 evening meeting at a school-house near Schuylkill among the 
 marble quarriers (and others.) It was a good meeting, and 
 the importance of being rightly directed in our inquiries after 
 the way to heaven, held up to view with reference to a sure 
 criterion or standard to try doctrines by the light of Christ 
 within. The inquiring mind encouraged to faithfulness in 
 obedience to the directions of this guide, &c. Lodged at 
 Isaac Roberts's. 
 
 20th. Attended Gwynned preparative meeting, and held up 
 the necessity of spiritual exercise and daily renewing of the 
 mind, lest a state of ease like Moab, who was not emptied from 
 vessel to vessel, should be ours, showing that no inventions nor 
 outside covering would do instead of that internal labour after 
 true renovation of heart typified by washing seven times in 
 
224 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 Jordan, as was required by the prophet of Naaman the 
 Syrian. 
 
 In the afternoon had a favoured meeting about half-way 
 between Plymouth and Upper Dublin, at Jacob Rife's. This 
 friendly family attend Friends' meetings, and their heart and 
 house appeared open to accommodate and entertain Friends. 
 After tea with them we lodged at Job Roberts's. 
 
 21st. Accompanied by J. Roberts and Sarah Yerkes (his 
 housekeeper) lately received into membership with Friends, a 
 tender seeking woman, we attended a meeting appointed for 
 us at a school-house near William Ellis's, four miles northward 
 of Plymouth meeting-house. It was not large, though full as 
 the house could contain, and a time to be remembered. May 
 the praise be ascribed to Him who was our helper. In the 
 afternoon, at three o'clock, had another meeting at Barren- 
 hill, perhaps two miles south of Plymouth meeting. It was 
 held in a school-house near a Presbyterian meeting-house. 
 The people seemed raw and restless at first ; many of them, it 
 was supposed, had never been at a Friends' meeting before, 
 and this being the first held by a Friend in this neighbour- 
 hood, little else could be looked for from a people charac- 
 terized as that neighbourhood is. The meeting, however, 
 after some close and trying labour, was favoured with that 
 covering that chains unruly spirits and solemnizes the mind, 
 and Truth reigned over death and darkness. The way is now 
 open for further religious service there. 
 
 22d. Attended Plymouth week-day meeting, and their pre- 
 parative meeting. Some labour of love among them, to the 
 satisfaction and peace of my mind. Requested an evening 
 meeting here for such as are not members, which was united 
 with, and at six o'clock a very large concourse of people 
 assembled from all quarters. The opportunity was not (to 
 me) so satisfactory as some others. I laboured among them, 
 but not with that relief which would have been desirable. 
 A hope is felt, however, that all was not in vain. May the 
 great Husbandman watch over and water his own heritage. 
 Lodged at Jacob Albertson's. 
 
 23d. Set out early to attend Providence week-day meeting, 
 twelve miles. A very small meeting, composed of about 
 
Chap. VIII. ] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 005 
 
 twenty-four families and parts, perhaps not more than tliirty 
 Friends attended. It was, notwithstanding, a good meeting, 
 as the doctrine of Truth flowed to the sincere-hearted ; and 
 the importance of their letting their light shine as upon the 
 candlestick was impressed upon them, that others seeking the 
 way to Zion might behold their good works, and be directed 
 to the eternal spring of life in themselves. Dined at John 
 Barnet's. He has lately joined in membership with Friends; 
 and his wife, seeking the foundation, is thoughtfully concerned, 
 but does not yet see into some of the doctrines of Truth. 
 "Other sheep," the master said, "I have, them also must I 
 bring;" and I hope he is bringing this woman step by step to 
 his fold of rest. 
 
 In the afternoon, at three o'clock, had a meeting at a school- 
 house, south of Perkioming Creek and near Schuylkill; our 
 kind landlady Barnet went with us, and I hope it was not in 
 vain. Divine counsel was near, and strength and utterance 
 was given to declare Truth among them, leaving in retrospect 
 a peaceful calm on this day's labour. Took tea with Lydia 
 a daughter of Abel Thomas, now the wife of Daniel Richards, 
 members of Charleston or valley meeting. Rode in the even- 
 ing to Ezra Comfort's. Esteem it a favour to have the in- 
 structive company of those elders in the church, Ezra and 
 Alice Comfort. They are green and flourishing in old age, 
 and are as pillars in the Lord's house. 
 
 24th. Attended a meeting at a large school-house at Chest- 
 nut Hill. It being seventh-day, and two-thirds of the inhabit- 
 ants said to be hucksters attending market, the weather also 
 wet and slippery, the meeting was not so large as might have 
 been on another day. However, the house was nearly filled, 
 and it was an opportunity that I hope will not be lost. Some 
 important doctrines opened respecting the state which many 
 are looking for and calling a millennium, showing that it is 
 only to be found in acquaintance with, and submission to the 
 government of the Spirit of Christ revealed in the heart, and 
 that this constitutes true religion as it is attended to and 
 followed, and produces the greatest quantum of real happi- 
 ness in this life, and prepares the soul for the happiness of 
 heaven. 
 
 15 
 
226 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 In die evening liacl a large crowded meeting in a school- 
 house near the Ridge Road in Livezey's Lane. It was trying 
 in the forepart, but Truth rose into dominion, and the doctrines 
 contained in and connected with the parable of the sower 
 illustrated and applied to states present, I trust, in the 
 demonstration of the Spirit and with power, that tended to 
 strike conviction in some minds present. Lodged at George 
 Martin's. He is a worthy man and a conspicuous light in his 
 neighbourhood ; few or no Friends near. My spirit had near 
 unity and fellowship with him in the gospel. I look toward 
 a meeting of Friends being gathered in this neighbourhood. 
 A few more faithful standard-bearers like him would be suffi- 
 cient to draw many seeking minds together to wait in silence. 
 Oh! that such an ensign may be held up! "To it shall the 
 Gentiles seek, and his rest shall be glorious." 
 
 First-day, 25. — Attended Germantown meeting. It was an 
 exercising time. Testimony was borne to the necessity of our 
 looking to the rock whence we were hcAvn, and to the hole of 
 the pit whence we were digged. I hope the pure mind was 
 stirred up in some. Oh ! that our religious society would stand 
 on the elevated ground of our profession, and to which we are 
 called as lights in the world. But, alas ! ease, wealth, and 
 splendour in the world, how they are idolized ; and a fair show 
 outwardly to men has too much influence in the estimation 
 even of religious character. Thus when the standard of Truth 
 is lowered to suit the circumstances of the times, and men are 
 disposed to cry Peace, peace ! and sew pillows, and daub with 
 untempered mortar, while the seed is under suffering, it must 
 make hard work for the faithful, the little ones. To these 
 was dropped a w^ord of encouragement at Germantown. 
 
 2Gth. Attended Abington monthly meeting, and had some 
 close searching labour among them. The subject of white- 
 washing and annually cleansing our houses, when thorough 
 work from garret to cellar is performed, applied to the state 
 of society, and the answering of all the Queries which was to 
 be done to-day. 
 
 A people formerly met and sat as the Lord's people sat, 
 they heard his words, but tliey would not do them. Oh, that 
 this may not be applicable to our highly favoured society ! 
 
Chap. VIII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 227 
 
 Retarned home in the evening, after dining at a friend's 
 house, whose loquacity was painful while my mind was silently 
 travailing in sympathy with his exercised companion and her 
 afflicted sister. 
 
 27th. Attended our own monthly meeting, and next day 
 that at Hor.sham, Had considerable religious labour among 
 them, particularly on the subjects of love and unity, and the 
 effects of true Christian love and the fellowship of the gospel, 
 and also on the Query relative to Friends observing moderation 
 and living exemplai'y in their business and dealings, punctual 
 to their word, and careful to keep within the limitation of 
 Truth. Oh ! how has my mind been exercised on the great 
 departure from primitive simplicity and moderation. Failures 
 are even becoming frequent among members of our society. 
 That timely care toward such as give ground for fears and 
 apprehensions of failure by living above their circumstances, 
 or launching into business and speculation, appears to be want- 
 ing among overseers and active members in the exercise of the 
 Discipline. 
 
 29th. Attended the gathering at the funeral of James Brad- 
 shaw, who was taken from works to rewards the 26th, with a 
 very short illness. Well in the morning, and in the evening a 
 corpse. Testimony was borne to a large gathering of raw 
 people, (sonle of them particularly so,) and I hope the witness 
 reached in some minds. But oh, the want of solemnity on 
 such solemn occasions ! Custom has rendered such meetings 
 very little more than a form, and even among Friends in many 
 places. No quiet settlement ; want of punctuality in meeting 
 causes great interruption. Talking and moving about con- 
 tinually lessen the solemnity, and the mind being thus afloat, 
 is unprepared to hear either the still small voice within or 
 vocal testimony without, or to enter into a sympathetic feeling 
 with the relatives and mourners deprived of a friend, and 
 pierced with sorrows, and almost overAvhelmed with weeping. 
 Can there be no remedy, no reformation effected in the man- 
 ner of conducting funerals ? 
 
 Second month, 2. — Attended Philadelphia quarterly meet- 
 ing under close exercise. Addressed them on the answers to 
 the Queries, particularly the seventh, and again on the man- 
 
228 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 ner of their meeting, &c. On this subject much discussion 
 took place, and an alteration was agreed on, that instead of 
 men and -women meeting together and then separating, the 
 men going into the other house, in future they meet separate. 
 I was satisfied with this alteration, because I believe that 
 quarterly meeting has sufi'ered loss by the former mode. 
 
 5th. An exercising quarterly meeting at Abington. Oh, 
 for more weight and depth of religious exercise in these large 
 meetings ! We had the company of Joseph Douglass and 
 Moses Dow from the District of Maine. 
 
 Fifth month, 7th. — At quarterly meeting had the acceptable 
 company of Edward Jones, an aged Friend from Warrington 
 quarter. He appeared in the simplicity of the Truth, and a 
 savour of precious life attended his communications. Daniel 
 Rowland from Rhode Island also attended. 
 
 Sixth month, 7th. — Attended Horsham meeting, and in the 
 afternoon had a meetmg at the new school-house near Wor- 
 thington's, Buckingham. A very large gathering and a very 
 interesting meeting. Doctrine flowed freely, and an enlarge- 
 ment of communication on the nature of that happiness de- 
 signed for man, as a being formed for immortality, showing 
 that animal happiness never could satisfy the capacity of an 
 immortal soul, and the pursuit of it being the great mistake 
 of mankind, was a source of innumerable miseries in the hu- 
 man family. Whence, in the openings of Light, the ivay was 
 pointed out whereby man might return to the state and sta- 
 tion designed for him, in which he might stand in dominion 
 over all creatures, and govern all his inferior animal natures 
 by and through that power freely offered him, which is Christ 
 within, the hope of glory; and thus that state represented by 
 the garden of Eden might be known even in this life, which is 
 the happiness suited to the nature of man. 
 
 This evening William Williams, from Indiana, in the course 
 of his religious labours came to William Walton's, a meeting 
 being appointed for him at Byberry, to-morrow. He was 
 seized at tea-table with a hemorrhage of the lungs, and pre- 
 vented from attending meeting next day. A large company 
 gathered, and it was a favoured meeting, though nearly silent. 
 Some observations were made on the necessity of having the 
 
Chap. IX.] JOURNEY TO NEW ENGL.\ND. 229 
 
 inward ear opened to listen to the spiritual preacher, and in- 
 formation given of the cause of William Williams's absence. 
 
 Sixth month 14. — Had a precious meeting in Bensalem 
 among Methodists and others. 
 
 William Williams attended meeting to-day, having been 
 confined about a week at William Walton's. He spoke a few 
 words near the close of meeting, expressive of his apprehen- 
 sions that his public labours were near a close, and exhorted 
 to faithfulness as the means of laying up a good foundation 
 for the time to come. 
 
 Seventh month 5. — At a meeting appointed this afternoon 
 at Ridge's tavern, Bensalem, it was large and favoured in the 
 openings of doctrine and counsel to an attentive audience, 
 and a hope felt that some minds were reached and edified. 
 The peaceable spirit of the gospel exalted, in showing its oppo- 
 sition to all cruelty, sporting, hunting, and vain amusements, 
 and that all wars, contentions, and going to law in a vindictive 
 spirit, are contrary to the meekness and gentleness of the 
 spirit of Christ. 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 JOURNEY TO XEW ENGLAND IN 1818. 
 
 The 28th of ninth month, 1818, left my dear wife and chil- 
 dren in much brokenness of spirit, and, accompanied by my 
 brother Joseph, went to Middletown. Those only who have 
 known a like parting with tender parents and an affectionate 
 companion and children, can fully enter into the feelings that 
 accompanied my mind during this ride. Here, parting with 
 my brother, I was taken that evening by my kind friend 
 Joseph Wilson as far as Stephen Comfort's, at the Falls. 
 Doctor Wilson and his precious daughter, whom I met at 
 Middletown on their way to Byberry, followed us, and we 
 passed the evening together to edification. I was led to 
 view the various causes that induced men to leave their fami- 
 
230 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 lies and travel abroad ; some from motives of curiosity, some 
 to gain wealth, and some for the pm-pose of destroying their 
 fellow-men by war. On close examination I can find no other 
 motive but the love of the Gospel of Peace, and a belief of its 
 being my duty to travel for the good of the souls of my 
 fellow-creatures, that has induced me to undertake this journey. 
 
 Set out early next morning toward Brunswick. Met Silas 
 Downing and Isaac Hicks, from Long Island, and William 
 Rickman, an English Friend, on their Avay toward Baltimore 
 Yearly Meeting. Felt renewedly tried in not having the com- 
 pany of I. H. in this journey. Arrived at Rahway about 
 three o'clock. Here parted with J. Wilson, and was left 
 alone with strangers. Endeavouring to keep up my spirits as 
 well as I could, by stage and steamboat I reached New York 
 a while after dark, all hurry and bustle about the boat and 
 wharf. Took up my baggage and steered my course into 
 town. Soon grew weary of my heavy load, and at length 
 came to some men with a hack, and agreed with them to take 
 me to Samuel Hicks's, near a mile from where I was. Glad 
 was I to be received by this dear friend and his family after 
 such a day's travel and trials. But my mind was supported 
 beyond my expectation, in the consciousness of my sincerity 
 in thus embarking again in the cause of Truth. 
 
 30th. In near sympathy and affection parted with Samuel 
 and Sarah Hicks, and went on board the steamboat Connecti- 
 cut, the captain of which, E. S. Bunker, was a member among 
 Friends. He sometimes used the plain language, and fre- 
 quently otherwise, but appeared like a mild, agreeable young 
 man. I had a lonesome passage in the midst of company up 
 the East River and Sound to New Haven. Saw an evident 
 want of suitable books for the passengers to read ; many of 
 them seemed very listless and idle, but generally behaved with 
 civility. I passed the day chiefly in silence and considerable 
 mental depression. In the evening, about nine o'clock, en- 
 tered the steamboat Fulton, Captain Law, for New London 
 and Norwich in Connecticut. To be on the water in a dark 
 night, and all alone among strangers, Avas a circumstance not 
 calculated to dispel but rather increase the gloom and anxiety 
 of my mind ; but endeavouring to get into a state of quiet 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 231 
 
 resignation, and putting my trust in Ilim whom wimls and 
 waves obey, then committing my all to his care and keeping, 
 I got some sleep. Rising early next morning, found the boat 
 was near Fisher's Island, and it soon entered the mouth of 
 the Thames, stopped a little at New London, and reached 
 Norwich about nine o'clock. Here took stage, which stood 
 waiting, and the driver hurried his horses up hill and down so 
 that I was in much fear of being overturned. Soon found 
 that my situation as to company was not at all improved, for 
 I was now under a necessity of hearing all the idle talk of 
 the passengers. However, I endeavoured to be patient, and 
 to gain what instruction and information I could from it. 
 Arrived at Providence in the evening, forty-five miles from 
 Norwich, and fondly hoped my trials of travelling alone among 
 strangers was at an end. Lodged at Obadiah Brown's, who, 
 with his wife, was from home, and the young people kindly 
 waited on me. Wrote to my wife this evening. 
 
 Seeing no prospect of getting company from Providence, 
 next morning again took stage for Boston. My spirits 
 admirably sustained. Found I had the same talkative young 
 women for part of the company, and must endeavour patiently 
 to endure another trying day's ride. However, the company 
 of a iNIethodist minister, Solomon Sias, rendered it more 
 supportable, as he appeared to have some religious feeling. 
 When the stage stopped, (as it frequently did to water the 
 horses, or for the driver to get a drink,) the Methodist and 
 myself sought some retired place, and sometimes had friendly 
 conversation. In one of the stages there was a young 
 man that was captive among the Arabs with James Riley. It 
 was with sorrow I observed his profanity, he being very talka- 
 tive and vulgar. That Scripture testimony was brought to 
 my remembrance, " I have smitten them, but they refused to 
 receive correction," as applicable to this poor depraved crea- 
 ture. Much of this day's ride was in patient, suffering silence. 
 Arrived in Boston about five in the afternoon, an entire stran- 
 ger to the place and people. Solomon Sias made some in- 
 quiries for a passage for me to Lynn, but having his own con- 
 cerns to attend to, left me. On making inquiry at the tavern 
 whether I could get to Lynn that evening, I found a young 
 
232 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 man avIio also v/antecl to go by Lynn to Salem ; so we hired a 
 horse and chaise, and set out a little before sunset. I soon 
 perceived my companion to be under the influence of strong 
 drink, but he would be driver. I therefore, endeavouring to 
 be patient and resigned, submitted, and putting my trust in 
 Him whose providence and whose tender mercies are over all 
 his works, experienced preservation both of body and mind. 
 Arrived at Isaac Bassett's, at Lynn, awhile after dark ; and 
 my companion, after taking some refreshment, left me with 
 marks of friendship. 
 
 Feelings of gratitude almost overcame me on finding myself 
 among my dear friends after such a very trying passage. 
 
 Tenth month 3d. — This morning was rainy, and I stayed 
 mostly within doors, at Micajah Collins's, where I had lodged. 
 The weather clearing about noon, I visited some of my friends. 
 Dined at Ezra Collins's, and toward SA'ening was taken by 
 Isaac Bassett, Jr., to Salem. Lodged at my kind friends "Wil- 
 liam and Lydia Dean's. My throat much affected ; otherwise 
 the day passed in much calmness of mind, though intermixed 
 with feelings of my lonesome condition. 
 
 4th. Attended Salem meeting in the morning, and in much 
 brokenness of spirit held up to view" that state of mind as 
 needful to be attained wherein we may in all things become 
 conformable to the Divine Will, so as to have no will of our 
 own distinct therefrom. This state I found needful, not only 
 to recommend to others, but to labour after myself. In the 
 afternoon, attended Lynn meeting at three o'clock, which 
 was large, and a satisfactory one to me. My mouth was 
 opened in testimony among them. At this meeting was E. 
 Johnson and Ann his wife, from Roxbury. They have lately 
 come from England, and not being members with Friends, 
 yet having a love to Truth, they have sought out Friends' 
 meetings, and attend them though ten or twelve miles distant. 
 Lodged again at Macajah Collins's, and next morning had a 
 melting, tendering opportunity with J. B., Jr., and his pre- 
 cious wife and her sister, a Avidow, whose tried state was en- 
 couragingly spoken to, before I was informed concerning her. 
 It was an opportunity not to be forgotten. 
 
 Daniel Johnson being jiroposed for my companion, and my 
 
Chap. IX.] TR.WELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 233 
 
 kind friend Estis Newhall furnishing a horse and chaise, and 
 my baggage being arranged, we set out for Salem toward 
 evening, and put up again at William Dean's. My mind 
 under some close exercises, but the kind attention and sym- 
 pathy of my friends, with Divine support, bore up my droop- 
 ing spirits. 
 
 6th. As we were about setting out this morning, Browning 
 Swift and Abiel Aiken rode up in a chaise. They were 
 Friends, from toward Cape Cod, and were going on a religious 
 visit to the District of Maine, and being strangers wished to 
 go in company with us. So we set forward together. The 
 complaint in my throat was very trying ; and this, together 
 with the prospect before me, depressed my spirits. On gain- 
 ing a little acquaintance with our company, found it would 
 not do to appear unto men to fast ; for B. S. being on his 
 first journey of this kind, and a meek, humble-minded man, 
 felt his situation very sensibly, and needed encouragement. 
 Arrived in the evening at Joseph Philbrick's, at Seabrook, 
 and I was truly glad to meet with that dear friend and father 
 in the church, and his precious daughter Lois. Browning 
 Swift appeared in an acceptable communication in a sitting in 
 the family, and I also had something to say to the young 
 people present. 
 
 All the three aged women — Comfort Collins, Elizabeth 
 Dow, and Phebe Dow — whom I visited when here before, 
 were gathered to their final rest. 
 
 7th. Arose very early, and set out for Dover meeting. 
 Arrived at Marble Osborn's in good season. B. Swift 
 appeared in a short but acceptable testimony — myself in one 
 more lengthy, and some religious labour in the preparative 
 meeting. Met with several dear friends Avith whom I had 
 acquaintance, and my drooping spirits seemed revived. Had 
 a precious opportunity after dinner, in which I was led to 
 open the necessity and advantage of holy patience under all 
 the trials and afflictions of this probationary scene. That 
 this was attainable by keeping alive the desire and exercise 
 of David, when ho said, " One thing have I desired of the 
 Lord, that will I seek after ; that I may dwell in the house 
 of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of 
 
234 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 the Lord and to inquire in his temple ; for in the time of 
 trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion, in the secret of his 
 tabernacle shall he hide me ; he shall set me upon a Rock." 
 In the afternoon visited a sick woman, Gertrude Whittier, vrife 
 of Moses Whittier, three miles from Dover, and had a comfort- 
 able, edifying season in her room, in "which several reviving and 
 encouraging communications were made. Then rode to Ber- 
 wick, twelve miles, and lodged at the house of the late Paul 
 Rogers. Since my being here, three years ago, he has been 
 removed from works to rewards, and a great blank is left in 
 the neifrhbourhood and meeting. He was a useful and exem- 
 plary man, and his memory is precious. We were received with 
 much kindness and hospitality by his widow and daughters, 
 with whom we had a religious opportunity in the evening. 
 
 8th. Set out for Portland, and travelled most of the day, 
 stopping only to feed, and dined at Saco Falls. Arrived at 
 Samuel F. Hussey's in the evening, forty miles. My mind 
 was led into a feeling of sympathy toward the few Friends 
 who remain in this town, and who are labouring under dis- 
 couragements, and I proposed having a meeting with them 
 select ; which being , agreed to, notice was given, and next 
 morning at nine o'clock they assembled, perhaps near thirty 
 in all. Browning Swift had a testimony among them, and I 
 endeavoured to encourage them to unity and steadfastness, 
 that the seed of Jacob through them might be in the midst of 
 many people, " as a dew from the Lord, and as showers upon 
 the grass." The opportunity was a seasonable one, and some 
 of them were refreshed and encouraged. In the afternoon, 
 set out and travelled through Durham to Brunswick, in- 
 quiring the way, (for we had no pilot,) and arrived at Thomas 
 Jones's in the evening, where we were kindly received. 
 
 10th. Rested and wrote in the forenoon, and in the after- 
 noon had a meeting at Brunswick, near the college. Several 
 of the students attended. I had a short testimony to those 
 assembled, and B. S. appeared also. Alas ! the deadness and 
 dryness of formal professors. I left the village with a heavy 
 heart. On the way home with Thomas Jones, he gave me an 
 affecting account of his son Lot Jones having left Friends and 
 joined the Congrcgationalists, and now studying in this col- 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 235 
 
 lege, in order to qualify himself for a missionary to go to the 
 East Indies. He came to the meeting, and I had a little op- 
 portunity with him. I felt deeply in sympathy for the father, 
 who is a meek-spirited, valuable minister. 
 
 11th. Attended Durham meeting, which was a large and 
 favoured one. Dear Browning Swift first appeared; after 
 which my mouth was opened in a living testimony. Much 
 plainness in apparel is observable among them, but more of 
 the life and savour of true religion is needful. Yet there are 
 some well-concerned Eriends in this the largest meeting east- 
 ward of Lynn. There is danger of some laying too much 
 stress on outward plainness and simplicity, while the internal 
 essential work is too much neglected. 
 
 Had an afternoon meeting at Pownal, which was an in- 
 teresting one. After this, we returned to Thomas Jones's to 
 lodge, and next day parted Avith Daniel Johnson, he inclining 
 to return to Lynn, which was a heavy trial to my deeply 
 exercised mind. I felt as a lonely wanderer in a strange 
 land. Bodily indisposition added to the inward exercises of 
 my mind, and my lonesome, dependent situation seemed to 
 sink my spirits into deep waters. I walked out alone into 
 the fields, and poured out my soul to Him who saw my tried 
 state; and as I laboured for quiet resignation and holy 
 patience, he sent the Comforter, and I was enabled to commit 
 myself to his care, and to submit to my allotment. Joseph 
 Estis, a Friend from Durham, took me in his chaise, and still 
 in company vrith my dear friends B. Swift and A. Aiken, 
 whose company was now increasingly precious to me, we set 
 out, crossed Androscoggin River and rode on to Litchfield, 
 stopping to dine at a tavern, in the borders of this town. Felt 
 some impressions of love toward the people here, but went on 
 to Noah Farr's, about eight miles farther. Here J. B. left 
 me, and went out to assist in appointing a meeting or notify- 
 ing the neighbourhood, and I did not see him again till next 
 day. Indeed all were strangers, and I keenly felt my lone- 
 some condition. I walked out in the fields, and endeavoured 
 to renew my stock of patience, and put my trust in Him who 
 careth for the sparrows, even when alone as on the housetops. 
 
 13th. After passing another trying and almost sleepless 
 
236 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 niglit, arose and was fiivourcd with a calm. The complaint 
 in my throat felt better, and I walked a long mile up and 
 down hill to a meeting appointed at Litchfield. After my 
 dear friend B. S. had appeared in a short testimony, I stood 
 up with a word of encouragement to the sincere-hearted ; and 
 was led to open the necessity and safety of a state of humility, 
 meekness, and lowliness of mind, as that which is represented 
 by a little child, and that which is taught in the mysteries of 
 the kingdom. B. S. again appeared in an acceptable addition, 
 and the meeting closed in solemnity and quiet. After ap- 
 pointing a meeting for to-morrow evening and one for next 
 day at a school-house on the road, we set out about one 
 o'clock, and travelled on through Hallowell and Augusta, 
 where we crossed Kennebec River on a new bridge, and went 
 up the east side twelve miles to Vassalborough, Put up at 
 the house of Stephen Hansan, his wife a nice Friend. He 
 was not at home, having gone eastward for the sake of gain, 
 with a company of men to cut lumber ; has been absent two 
 months, and expects to be gone all winter. I have passed 
 this day with more calmness and composure of mind than 
 perhaps any day since I left home. My throat much better, 
 exciting thankfulness to the Great Physician for his care and 
 preservation over me. 
 
 14th, Awoke in the night under feelings of distress, both 
 of body and mind. Continued so, much the latter part of the 
 night, and this morning the anguish of my mind seemed almost 
 insupportable. I endeavoured to get into a calm, but the 
 waves and billows went over me. After breakfast, had a 
 little openness in tender counsel, and like a parting oppor- 
 tunity with my dear friends Browning Swift and companion. 
 
 Went to meeting at Vassalborough, which was a large 
 gathering of Friends of goodly appearance. I sat in much 
 poverty of spirit, labouring for a quiet resting-place. At 
 length, after B. S. had spoken, I arose with some cautions to 
 Friends to beware of taking up a rest on this side Jordan, or 
 being satisfied with having begun well and got on as far as 
 the outward court, introducing the parable of "A short his- 
 tory of a long travel," to show that the guide led beyond this 
 outward court through a narrow door; and then, as the sub- 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 237 
 
 ject opened, called upon the visited children to be faithful to 
 their several gifts for the edification of the church, and for the 
 spreading of the knowledge of the peaceable kingdom of our 
 Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Oh ! it was a time of living in- 
 struction, and I believe the pure mind was stirred up in some. 
 May they profit thereby. Monthly meeting for business then 
 came on, but life and zeal seem wanting among them ; though 
 a living remnant are travailing for Zion's prosperity. Meet- 
 ing held till half-past two, and rain coming on, the prospect 
 for the evening was gloomy. After dining, we set out to ride 
 back nearly twenty miles to the evening meeting appointed at 
 Gardner. The rain soon abated, and we reached there in 
 good season, and had a good meeting with a considerable 
 number of tender-hearted people. Doctrines opened in the 
 life, and a freedom of utterance was given, to show the plain- 
 ness and simplicity of the religion of Jesus and its blessed 
 eflfects on the mind and conduct of those who are obedient 
 thereto. In the evening felt more calm and comfortable. 
 
 15th. Thankful for a quiet night's repose, and my bodily 
 health better. My mind contrite and as a little child. 
 Travelled about eight miles to attend a meeting appointed at 
 Litchfield corner. When we came there, no meeting was 
 gathered; but being invited into a Congregational meeting- 
 house, the people at length collected. Being much of stran- 
 gers to Friends' ways, they were at first restless ; but after 
 getting quiet and settled, we had a precious meeting. The 
 baptizing power of Truth was present, and the way of life and 
 salvation opened to the view of their minds. After meeting, 
 we were invited by a neighbour, Thomas Smith, to take some 
 refreshment. He appeared above fifty years of age, but said 
 he had never heard a Friend in the ministry before, and 
 expressed his belief that what was said in the meeting was the 
 Truth. His eldest daughter was a cripple, not having walked 
 for more than two years. We were invited into her room, 
 and found her in a meek, patient frame of mind, and believe her 
 afflictions have been blessed to her ; had a satisfactory oppor- 
 tunity, and gave her some books, for which she expressed her 
 gratitude. A younger daughter, who was at meeting, appeared 
 very tender and thoughtful, and waited on us with much kind- 
 
238 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY, [1818. 
 
 ness, and at parting expressed her desire to see us there again. 
 May the Shepherd of Israel hold those whose hearts he had 
 touched in his holy care and keeping. Acknowledged the 
 kindness of these strangers, and left them in love which 
 appeared to be mutual. 
 
 Travelled on in company with Joseph Estis, and reached Jo- 
 seph Douglass's in the evening, where we were received with 
 kindness. Here met with Remington Hobby, a Friend from Vas- 
 salborough, who gave an account of his convincement by means 
 of a conversation with David Sands. He was then a justice 
 of the peace. Being convinced of our principles, he joined 
 Friends, and became an eminent minister, a man of talents 
 and usefulness ; but at length, being much esteemed by Friends, 
 he let in spiritual pride, and exalting himself he gave way to 
 temptation, so as to lose his standing and usefulness in society. 
 Alas ! how is he fallen, and yet there remains a love to Friends. 
 May he be favoured to close in peace. " Let him that thinketh 
 he standeth, take heed lest he fall." "Be not high-minded, 
 but fear." This evening passed in very interesting conversa- 
 tion with said Friends, and I gathered instruction. Next morn- 
 ing, on looking around me and hearing of the great openness in 
 the minds of people about Durham, many being very desirous 
 I should have another meeting there, and being invited on the 
 road the day before to hold a meeting at a "village called Lis- 
 bon, and Friends proposing sundry others, I perceived it would 
 be best for me to move onward, because I felt that the minds 
 of many were hungry, but too much disposed to depend on 
 the labour of others. After a parting opportunity with 
 J. Douglass's family and R. Hobby, I set out with Solomon 
 Crosman, a Friend of Durham, and rode on to Falmouth, 
 twenty-five miles, to John Winslow's. This frequent changing 
 of companions is trying to me, but I endeavour to keep quiet 
 and be patient, as I am dependent on my friends, and am not 
 often consulted in a change. This morning a proposal was 
 made for a woman to take me to Falmouth, as she wished to 
 visit her relations there ; and had not S. Crosman opportunely, 
 or providentially, come in, I might have been under a neces- 
 sity of such an arrangement, but glad was I of the change or 
 deliverance. The roads are rough and hilly, and one or the 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 239 
 
 other had frequently to walk. I mention this circumstance to 
 show the need of prudence in all the conduct of Friends toward 
 strangers — to be careful of increasing the burdens and trials 
 of those travelling in the exercise of the ministry. 
 
 17th. At Falmouth, five miles from Portland. The simpli- 
 city of things among Friends in the eastern land is not so visi- 
 ble here ; but I perceive in household furniture and the gene- 
 ral appearance of things in Friends' families, that I have got 
 into the neighbourhood of a wealthy city. Papered rooms, 
 elegant furniture and carpets, paintings, &c. are prevalent — 
 but the meeting I fear is declining. In the afternoon had a 
 meeting at Windham, and was led to open the necessity of 
 getting deeper and going farther than John's elementary dis- 
 pensation, which was only preparatory to the baptism of the 
 Spirit. I had to show the nature of the kingdom of Heaven in 
 the heart of man to be a Divine government of the Spirit of 
 Christ, having dominion over all the animal or creaturely dis- 
 positions, desires, and passions, bringing all into harmony, and 
 producing peace on earth and good-will to man. It was a 
 meeting of favour, though not large, the notice having been 
 short and the afternoon rainy. After meeting, went to Elisha 
 Purinton's, and spent the evening agreeably. He gave us a 
 history of a remarkable storm in this place near fifty years 
 ago, which blew down all the trees for a space of three miles in 
 width, and threw down his barn and other buildings, from which 
 he and his wife and two children narrowly escaped with their 
 lives. The rain, hail, and wind were awful, and lasted with 
 extreme violence for about fifteen minutes. 
 
 When David Sands first visited the District of Maine, about 
 Kennebec River, it was a wilderness. His second visit in 
 company with Elisha Purinton, in the time of the Revolutionary 
 war, was attended with great difficulties and hardships. They 
 were taken for spies, and refused entertainment even for their 
 money, so that they sufi'ered in some cases for food. But per- 
 severing they gained some place in the minds of the people so 
 as to hold meetings amongst them. These, however, being 
 totally unacquainted with Friends, were not accustomed to 
 silent waiting. Some, however, were reached by the power 
 of Truth and convinced, and thus way gradually opened 
 
240 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 for the spreading of Truth. D. Sands was apprehended by 
 warrant because he refused to use sugar, &c., being accounted 
 a tory, but was released. His indefatigable labours of love in 
 this eastern land have been blessed to many hundreds if not 
 thousands of the inhabitants. 
 
 18th. Attended Falmouth meeting, and had some close la- 
 bour. On calling at a house before meeting, saw what is 
 called the Shakers' Bible, a book published by that society 
 entitled Christ's Second Appearance, &c. After dining at 
 John Winslow's, who was from home, proceeded to Portland to 
 attend a meeting appointed at half-past three o'clock for the 
 citizens. Their meetings having just closed, the people flocked 
 into ours, and we had a large and quiet meeting. Truth's tes- 
 timony was declared among them, and the kingdom of God in 
 man held up to view, with the privilege and the necessity of 
 seeking it, and yielding our wills, passions, dispositions, and 
 desires to the divine government of the Spirit of Jesus. The 
 opportunity ended to satisfaction. One of their prominent 
 men remarked, "I have been gratified by your discourse, and I 
 think edified." Peace was my portion. After meeting had 
 the company of divers Friends to tea at Samuel F. Hussey's, 
 and lodged there. 
 
 10th. Parted with Solomon Crosman, and was taken by the 
 Friend at whose house I lodged to a meeting appointed at Cape 
 Elizabeth. It was small, but favoured with the ownings of 
 Truth. One Webster, a minister of the Free-will Baptist So- 
 ciety, was there, and sat very quiet. lie is an aged man, and 
 I apprehend saw some things as opened in that meeting with 
 more clearness than ever he had before. Dined at Nathaniel 
 Dyer's, who had lately joined Friends, being convinced by the 
 principle of Truth in his own mind. One day being at a neigh- 
 bour's, had entering into discourse on religious subjects, his 
 neighbour told him some of his sentiments were like the 
 Quakers, and informed him that he had one of their books, but 
 did not like it, and offered to lend it to him, at the same time 
 telling him that he would not like it either. Nathaniel took 
 it, and felt so interested to know its contents that he opened 
 and read it as he rode along on his way home, and he very 
 soon found that he was one in sentiment with Friends — that 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 241 
 
 he was a Quaker. The book was Barclay's Apology. He 
 soon joined Friends, his wife also became a member, and they 
 appear much in the simplicity of Truth. Called at William 
 Fickett's, and saw his aged parents, about ninety and ninety- 
 two years old. 
 
 Accompanied by Isaiah Winslow and William Fickett, set 
 out for Scarborough, and had a small but precious tendering 
 meeting there at three o'clock in the afternoon. Only two 
 parts of families compose and keep up the meeting at this 
 place, but a number of neighbours often meet with them. Put 
 up at Jonathan Pilsberry's. 
 
 20th. Set out early with Isaiah Winslow, a kind, obliging 
 young man, son of John and Lydia, and having a good horse 
 and easy chaise we rode on to Berwick. My mind much in- 
 clined to pensive musing. Dined at Joshua Header's, and 
 then rode to William Brown's, at Dover. Here met with Da- 
 niel Lowell and his son Henry, from Danville, in Vermont, 
 with whom, and also Ezekiel Hoit, an honest-hearted Friend 
 and minister from Gilmanton, I spent the evening, and we had 
 a precious sitting together, in which some encouraging counsel 
 was held forth to a tried state present. 
 
 21st. Attended quarterly meeting of ministers and elders at 
 Dover, numbering fourteen Friends, besides myself and another 
 stranger, Jedediah Jessup, from Harlem. My mind was much 
 enlarged in testimony and labour among them, that they may 
 be as examples to the flock, and that they may encourage and 
 bring forward others on whom the Holy Spirit hath conferred 
 gifts for the edification of the church, showing the necessity of 
 unity and harmony among themselves and with the meetings 
 they belong to, so that the effects of their fidelity may extend 
 to the remotest branches of the family. At this meeting they 
 agreed to recommend Martha Meader, of Sandwich, a daughter 
 of Joseph Hoag, as a minister, whose public appearances were 
 approved by them. 
 
 Met with many dear friends at this meeting, and dined at 
 Isaac Wendall's. Being disappointed of receiving letters 
 from home, my spirits were much depressed; but the com- 
 pany of friends tended to revive me. In the evening, was 
 taken by Daniel Osborn, son of Marble, to a meeting ap- 
 16 
 
242 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 pointed for me at a cotton factory about three miles off, which 
 the manufacturers and a large number of Friends and neigh- 
 bours attended ; and it was thought by many to be a favoured 
 meeting. After I sat down, B. Fry appeared in testimony, 
 and E. Varney in supplication. 
 
 22d. The quarterly meeting for business came on, in the 
 j)ublic part of which the labour fell on Micajah Collins. lu 
 the latter part, myself and John Russell Davis, from Sand- 
 wich, had some service. My exercise was first to open the 
 nature of a quarterly meeting for discipline, and excite 
 Friends to a due consideration of the state of their smaller 
 meetings, that Avhere weakness or deficiency appears there 
 may be renewed labour extended, either individually, or by 
 the quarterly meeting, as the wisdom of Truth may direct. 
 When they read the Queries and the answers, no pause was 
 made for deliberate consideration, at which I was tried, for it 
 appeared a very formal way of doing business. I reminded 
 them of the need of our often recurring to first principles, 
 like the disciples returning to Galilee ; otherwise we should 
 lose the life and savour, and our meetings dwindle into dry 
 formality. I also encouraged the young men to occupy their 
 gifts with diligence and faithfulness, and not withhold more 
 than is meet, lest it tend to poverty — showing that none are 
 to be idle in the church of Christ. 
 
 Lodged again at William Brown's, and had a precious sit- 
 ting with a large circle of dear friends. 
 
 23d. Micajah Collins and wife set out for Gilmanton; John 
 E. Davis and Seth Kelly, his companion, for Sandwich ; and 
 myself, with William Brown and D. Lowell and son, for Ber- 
 wick — the weather quite cold. The meeting at this place was 
 favoured ; in which I was led to show the difference between 
 the wisdom from above, or heavenly wisdom, and that from 
 beneath, or earthly wisdom, and how from the latter have 
 sprung the doctrines of unconditional election and reproba- 
 tion, the visionary calculations of the coming millennium, and 
 other things; but that man, by humbling himself as a little 
 child, and learning of Him who is meek and lowly of heart, 
 and Avho is the wisdom of God and the power of God, might 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 243 
 
 attain to a right understanding of Divine things, and be made 
 wise unto salvation through faith in Christ. 
 
 Returned to Dover, and had a large evening meeting -with 
 the people of the town, which closed with a remarkably 
 solemn quiet, and was an edifying season. The state of 
 man's heart while under the dominion of sin compared to a 
 wilderness, and the means pointed out whereby it may be 
 changed, and brought into the garden of Eden. Outside 
 profession, without this internal change, illusti'ated by a fre- 
 quent custom in New England of building large houses, with 
 a spacious appearance without, and very little of the inside 
 work finished. May its application be attended to by them. 
 Feel that I have abundant cause to adore my God for his pre- 
 servation, and that he hath given me mouth and wisdom, 
 tongue and utterance, this day. 
 
 24th. Seventh-day morning. Set out for Concord, accom- 
 panied by David Lowell, feeling a weight of mental exercise ; 
 yet laboured after, and was favoured with a portion of quietude 
 and patience. Arrived in the evening at Sarah Swett's, at 
 Concord, thankful and revived, again to be in company with 
 this family. 
 
 25th. Attended meeting at Concord. It was a favom-ed 
 one, in which doctrine and counsel flowed freely to a quiet, 
 attentive audience. At the close, proposed another meeting 
 in the afternoon, which a number of the towns-people attended, 
 but it was not to me so lively as that in the morning. A num- 
 ber of Friends accompanied us to Daniel Cooledge's, where 
 in the evening we had a precious opportunity together, not 
 soon to be forgotten by some present. 
 
 26th. After making; some arrano-ements with D. C. for the 
 distribution of tracts issued by the Tract Association of 
 Friends at Philadelphia, — he having opportunity for spreading 
 them widely through the District of Maine and New Hamp- 
 shire, where they are much wanted, — set out again toward Sa- 
 lem. It was satisfactory to remark the increased openness 
 toward Friends in Concord, and the increase of the meeting 
 there. It is of importance for Friends to have suitable 
 houses, belonging to the Society, to hold meetings in, es- 
 pecially in towns and villages, even where no Friends reside ; 
 
244 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 and I should rejoice to see Friends take bold of the subject 
 extensively, believing it might greatly tend to encourage those 
 travelling in the ministry, whose gifts lead them out of the 
 pale of Society ; and also excite inquiry in the minds of other 
 professors respecting the principles of Friends and the nature 
 of silent worship. The difficulty of obtaining suitable places 
 to hold meetings in is considerable in some places, and even 
 when obtained order and quietude are often wanting, and the 
 minds of many thereby unsettled. 
 
 These remarks are founded on circumstances that I have 
 frequently met with, and particularly in Concord. When 
 here three years ago, there was no place to be had for a meet- 
 ing but the court-house, and some of the above difficulties 
 were witnessed ; now a neat meeting-house is erected, and 
 many neighbours meet with Friends, and sit very quiet ; but 
 the meeting is yet under care of a committee of the monthly 
 meeting. I suggested the propriety of their holding an after- 
 noon meeting on first-days, by which an opportunity would be 
 afforded for others to sit with them ; and many, no doubt, 
 would embrace the privilege after having attended their con- 
 gregational meetings in the morning. I perceived, however, 
 that as in some other places so here, those who are accus- 
 tomed to sit in large meetings of Friends are cautious (per- 
 haps unwarrantably fearful) of permitting a few Friends to 
 hold an established meeting, and thus they are kept under 
 committees and indulgences till formality destroys the lively 
 use of such care, and the feiv tender minds get discouraged. 
 It is a subject worthy the attention of monthly meetings, to 
 feel after the propriety of frequently holding or appointing 
 meetings, with or in the neighbourhood of their remote or dis- 
 tant members, and often visiting such families. 
 
 27th. Had a pensive ride through sandy forests of pine 
 trees near the river Merrimac, with very few settlements for 
 some miles along the turnpike leading toward Boston. No 
 village for nearly twenty miles, but more than half the latter 
 part of the way, off the turnpike, the country is hilly, rocky, 
 stony, and poor — looked hardly habitable in many places. 
 Dined at a poor tavern, and entered a better section of the 
 country called Chester. But though the land and improve- 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 245 
 
 ments had a more lively appearance, my mind was exceed- 
 ingly depressed and deeply tried through the whole day. The 
 waters seemed to " come in even to the soul." My throat and 
 mouth "were affected with the trying comj)laint heretofore 
 mentioned, and all things seemed to press upon me with dis- 
 couragement. I endeavoured after patience, and silently rode 
 along, for I did not want to converse. I had hoped to reach 
 a Friend's house near Haverhill, where I had been before, but 
 our horse travelled so very slow that Ave made little more than 
 three miles an hour, and this was not calculated to animate 
 my drooping spirits. However, I was dependent, and must 
 not complain nor hurry, so resigned to my lot, and when night 
 came on proposed putting up at a tavern. We came to a 
 house that had some appearance of an inn, though no sign, 
 and on inquiry found we could be accommodated with lodging. 
 Soon found we had got to the house of a Methodist, for he 
 wanted to talk about religion, and let us know he was a min- 
 ister of that profession. His name was Reuben Peaslee. My 
 mind was a little revived, and I discoursed with him. He 
 gave account of his conversion and call to the ministry, as he 
 apprehended, and his duty to travel, &c. ; stated his belief of 
 the spiritual nature of religion, and the necessity of the aid of 
 the Spirit to preach the gospel ; told his experiences, and held 
 for the privilege and necessity of Christians relating their 
 experiences in public meetings, &c. In answer to his state- 
 ment respecting the qualifications of ministers, as he had 
 made some comparisons between the Methodists and Congre- 
 gationalists, the latter depending on college acquirements, 
 &c., I read to him the sentiments of Livingston, Governor of 
 New Jersey, on the subject, with which he seemed much 
 pleased. I then stated the need of care in those who pro- 
 fessed to believe in the qualifying influence of the Spirit, that 
 they did not run before their guide, by being always ready. 
 He confessed he did not always feel the same life and zeal in 
 preaching; which opened the way to give our views of the 
 necessity of silent waiting before we appear in testimony, and 
 that when the Spirit does not qualify we should be silent. He 
 granted it right and proper so to wait, and said he often did 
 so ; but the people expected him to preach, and he must say 
 
246 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1818. 
 
 something and do the best he could. This led to further 
 opening, and he acknowledged it would be better to say 
 nothing sometimes than to speak when not moved thereto. We 
 had now got through our views of ministry, and I turned to 
 the subject of telling experiences, showing the need of care 
 on that hand by the instances mentioned in the New Testa- 
 ment of those who were healed, being frequently commanded 
 by Jesus Christ not to make him known, to tell no man, &c. 
 But in their forwardness to tell their experience they were dis- 
 obedient, and blazed abroad the matter, so that they hindered 
 the work more than helped, and scattered what they should 
 have kept till they had become settled and established, and 
 then when the Master called they might have told what he 
 had done to some profit. Yet the case was very different with 
 some who were healed, and who wanted to be still and quiet 
 at Jesus's feet ; these were not forward in their own wills to 
 tell their experience, and these were they that were called and 
 rightly qualified to " tell how great things God had done for 
 them." He appeared to see the thing, and I thought it time 
 to leave him, so requested a candle and room to write. These 
 he furnished, but on lea^dng me asked if I would not pray 
 with his family, as it was their practice. I told him prayer 
 was a very solemn act, and I could not pray any more than 
 preach when I would ; that all vocal prayer required a clear- 
 ness of Divine requiring and the influence of the Spirit of 
 prayer, otherwise it would be lifeless and formal ; that there- 
 fore it could not be performed at set times or in man's will, so 
 as to be acceptable to God or edifying and profitable to man. 
 He appeared satisfied, and left me. I afterward overheard 
 him in his evening or family devotion. 
 
 Next morning we set out early, leaving our kind host some 
 books on Friends' principles, for he would not take pay for 
 our accommodations. Rode through the town of Haverhill, 
 and thence two miles to Caleb Page's to breakfast. Were 
 welcomed by him, his wife and family, and concluding to have 
 a meeting at Haverhill in the evening, spent the day in walk- 
 ing, writing, &c. more comfortably than the preceding, though 
 still much depressed in spirit, particularly toward evening. 
 At six o'clock we went to the meeting, but the people seemed 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 247 
 
 unacquainted with Friends' meetings and manners. A large 
 hall or upper room was appropriated for the purpose, and a 
 few seats placed, but the people seemed shy and backward 
 of coming in. I at length requested some person of the town 
 to stand at the door and introduce them to proper seats, but 
 nobody appeared to understand such business. However, 
 after a time of trial both of faith and patience, we attained a 
 little quiet ; and I stood up among them, telling them my 
 name, where I came from, the unity of my friends with my 
 travelling abroad, and my motives for coming to see them. 
 Their attention being gained, all came into the room and were 
 very still, while important doctrines were opened to them in 
 the demonstration of the Spirit, and it proved a favoured sea- 
 son wherein Truth reigned. After I sat down a young man 
 arose, named Plummer, and expressed his unity with my tes- 
 timony, and his desire that all might come to be partakers of 
 the blessed state therein described, as resulting from faithful 
 obedience to the manifestations or teachings of the free grace 
 of God, given to all for their salvation. I should suppose 
 him a Methodist, and his testimony had some life in it, but 
 was continued rather too long. When he sat down another 
 arose, supposed a Free-will Baptist, and spoke feelingly in 
 support of what I had declared as the Truth, and that he 
 wanted no other certificate of my ministry or of my being of 
 a Christian spirit. He also called upon the audience to em- 
 brace the offers of salvation by Jesus Christ, and improve the 
 opportunity. I suppose he stood near a quarter of an hour, 
 and a solemn quiet prevailed. The meeting then closed, and 
 a large company gathered round me. I spoke a few words 
 to them and left them. Kode three miles, and lodged at John 
 Whittier's. 
 
 28th. Had a tendering opportunity in the family of J, W. 
 this morning. Was informed of a request made by sundry 
 inhabitants of the town of Haverhill, to hold another meet- 
 ing with them in one of their meeting-houses, and Friends 
 favouring the proposal, I endeavoured calmly to feel after the 
 mind of Truth ; but way not opening, thought it safest to 
 leave them in the hand of Him who had touched some of 
 their hearts, and to whose teaching grace in the heart they 
 
248 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 had been recommended. Oh ! that Friends would so walk in 
 the Truth, that they might be as lights in the world ! Only- 
 two families of Friends living within about ten miles ; but did 
 they live in the pure life of the principle, and were Friends, 
 of the monthly meeting alive in the cause of the spreading of 
 Truth, I had to believe that a meeting would soon be gathered 
 here. 
 
 Set out for Salem, and arrived at my kind friend William 
 Dean's in the afternoon, where I found a very acceptable 
 letter from my dear wife, the first account since I left home. 
 Was thankful for Divine care continued over my dear family 
 and friends, and for my own preservation. 
 
 In this eastern tour, I have been much exercised in mind, 
 to know the Master's will to be my guide and director where 
 to go, as well as what to do ; and though I have been led in 
 paths that I had not in prospect when I set out from Salem, 
 and have returned here much sooner than I had expected, yet, 
 feeling quietude of mind in having endeavoured to attend to 
 the openings of Pure Wisdom, I feel satisfied, though my 
 friends may have been disappointed, and my path may be dif- 
 ferent from others. 
 
 29th. Attended Salem meeting of Friends, and laboured 
 among them to excite a diligent attention to the progressive 
 advancement of the work of Divine grace in the mind ; that 
 by acquaintance with the Truth they might know that state 
 described by Ezekiel, in his vision of the waters issuing from 
 the threshold, and increasing in depth at every measurement 
 or examination, till it became a river to swim in, whose waters 
 wherever they came caused every thing that had life to live ; 
 showing the analogy of this vision with that Avhich John saw : 
 "He showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, 
 proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the 
 midst of the street of it, and on either side, stood the tree of 
 life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit 
 every month ; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing 
 of the nations." These waters and their healing eifects being 
 the very principle of Truth we profess, in its operation on the 
 mind, deepening and increasing in the life and love of God 
 wherever we are, in our intercourse Avith men, reaches the 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 249 
 
 witness, and causes that which has life to live ; yields the 
 fruits of the Spirit under all the various months or seasons 
 that the mind passes through. The great privilege of these 
 week-day meetings was opened as profitable seasons of exami- 
 nation, how far this progressive work is known ; and the ne- 
 cessity of being washed from the dust, or the defiling influence 
 of a worldly spirit often contracted in our business and inter- 
 course with men, deeply rooted in an earthly mind and the 
 cares and business of this life, that so our vessels may be 
 kept clean, our lights burning, and we as the salt of the earth 
 healing and preserving wherever we are. Thus would others 
 see our good works, and feel the effects of that Divine love in 
 our minds extending to the healing and gathering of the na- 
 tions. Oh! that Friends would so dwell in the life, that they 
 might in all things exalt the standard of Truth, and especially 
 in such towns as this. Many would then flow thereto, as 
 doves to the window of the Ark, where they might find rest. 
 
 In the evening had a meeting at Danvers, in a large Con- 
 gregational steeple-house. A very large company of people 
 gathered, and were very quiet and attentive. It was a sea- 
 son of Divine favour, and closed with a remarkably solemn 
 quiet. 
 
 30th. A meeting at Marblehead this afternoon, in the same 
 Congregational meeting-house that I had a meeting in when 
 here three years ago. I stood up with these words : — •" Sil- 
 ver and gold have I none, but such as I have give I thee." 
 Enlargement of doctrine flowed to an attentive assembly, 
 showing that as we come to understand the healing virtue of 
 the power of Christ, the Scriptures are opened instructively, 
 so that we see, in this day, the same power works miracles to 
 heal the diseases of the soul that was displayed by Jesus 
 Christ in healing bodily infirmities in that day. A call was 
 renewed to come to him in spirit and in faith, and extended 
 to a state present that was crippled and halting. The love of 
 God being manifested to those who thus come to him to be 
 healed, and are willing to take up the cross and follow him in 
 faithful obedience to his teaching in the heart. 
 
 In the evening had a very large meeting at Salem. Many 
 of the leading characters of the town attended, and among 
 
250 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 them a priest named Bently. In the course of my commu- 
 nication, gospel ministry and its baptizing effects were opened, 
 and much interesting doctrine delivered in the demonstration 
 of the Spirit and -with power. To Him who gave mouth and 
 wisdom, tongue and utterance, be all the praise. It was a 
 solemn, edifying season ; and seldom have I witnessed Truth 
 to rise into higher dominion than in this memorable meeting. 
 Near the close, Henry Chase of Salem appeared in supplica- 
 tion, and the meeting ended well. 
 
 31st. This morning passed in an openness of very interest- 
 ing conversation. In the afternoon, had a meeting at Salem 
 Poor-house, situated on a neck of land eastward of the town ; 
 a very large brick building, said to contain about two hundred 
 paupers. A number of Friends and neighbours attended, and 
 among them Crowninshield, late Secretai'y of the Navy of 
 the United States. It was a very quiet meeting, in which, in 
 language suited to their capacity, counsel flowed toward the 
 poor, exciting them to a grateful sense of the care and privi- 
 leges they enjoy, and encouraging them to live in love, in 
 watchfulness over their words and actions, to be diligent in 
 their business, and to love and fear the Lord, that their minds 
 might be comforted by his Spirit ; showing them that those 
 who thus feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name, 
 were remembered by him, as mentioned by Malachi ; and 
 the parable of Lazarus a little opened for their encourage- 
 ment, thus to look forward to the hope of a happiness in the 
 world to come, resulting from a life spent in obedience to the 
 will of God, though in the midst of poverty here. This, 
 though the first meeting ever held by Friends among them, 
 was a still, quiet meeting, and many of the poor creatures, 
 who perhaps never sat in a Friends' meeting before, seemed 
 tendered, and their countenances manifested deep attention 
 and solemnity. I trust it was in the ordering of "Wisdom, 
 and I recommended to Salem Friends to be mindful of the 
 poor. It appears that the ministers of different denomina- 
 tions in Salem take it by turns to preach in their way at 
 this poor-house ; and Friends have also been invited, but 
 hitherto had not attempted any meeting with them. 
 
 Not feeling quite clear of Salem, I had a meeting appointed 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 251 
 
 this evening for the coloured people, about seventy or eighty 
 of whom attended, and conducted with quietude and sobriety. 
 The people of the town of all ranks also flocked in, till it 
 was a very large gathering. I was much surprised to see 
 such a great concourse of white people, as the meeting was 
 known to be appointed for the people of colour ; however, it 
 was a good meeting, and ability was given to divide the word 
 among them in a manner marvellous to myself. It seemed as 
 if Truth was again eminently in dominion, and the baptizing 
 power thereof spread over us, so as to induce many to acknow- 
 ledge, "It is good for us to be here." After meeting closed, 
 as we were going away, an aged black woman and her 
 daughter returned to speak to me. The mother particularly 
 seemed much tendered, and desired me to remember the poor 
 coloured people, and if I ever came again to Salem to have 
 another meeting with them. It does not appear that such a 
 meeting has been held for that class in this place for several 
 years, and the poor creatures need care and encouragement. 
 Near the close of my communication, I recommended their 
 situation to the benevolent attention of the citizens of Salem ; 
 also that of other obscure, tried, afflicted persons and their 
 children, particularly during the cold winter season. 
 
 Eleventh month 1st. — Left Salem, accompanied by William 
 Dean and Daniel Lowell and son, and attended Lynn meet- 
 ing. It was large, and I was led to open the nature of 
 spiritual worship among them. In the afternoon, a meeting 
 considerably larger, in which was opened the state of the 
 mind as represented in the different kinds of ground where the 
 seed fell, showing the business of men to prepare the ground 
 of the heart so as to yield much fruit, as it is only hereby 
 that man can glorify his heavenly Father here, and be pre- 
 pared to enjoy him forever. The parable of the vine and the 
 branches was also illustrated for the encouragement of the 
 faithful. It was a season not soon to be forgotten — a season 
 eminently owned by the Dispenser of every blessing. To him 
 be the praise. 
 
 In the evening was present at two family sittings in large 
 circles of Friends. But my animal spirits being much ex- 
 hausted and depressed, my health also a little impaired, I 
 
252 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 wanted quietude and retirement alone. The kindness of 
 Friends and their desire of edification needs on such occa- 
 sions some care lest the poor instrument may be injured. 
 When such religious opportunities open in the life, they are 
 precious ; otherwise they may become dry and formal. 
 
 2d. Parted with D. Lowell, and accompanied by Samuel 
 Philbrick and William and Lydia Dean, set out for Boston. 
 Arrived there about noon, and put up at the widow Campbell's 
 boarding-house. Took a walk with S. P. to see Thomas Yose, 
 a man who has been conscientiously scrupulous of bearing 
 arms or training with the militia, has suffered distraint of 
 goods on that account, and who with several others petitioned 
 the last General Court or Legislature of Massachusetts for 
 exemption from military duties, and to extend to all such as 
 manifest by their conduct and deportment that they are really 
 conscientiously scrupulous of joining in learning the art of 
 war. In this petition they alluded to the privilege given by the 
 laws of the State to Friends and the people called Shakers, 
 and claimed the same under the Constitution. It was referred 
 to a committee, and a bill brought in granting the request, 
 which passed one house, but was lost in the Senate. Thomas 
 Vose was very industrious in pleading the cause of the rights 
 of conscience, not on his own account so much as others, for 
 he said his own sufferings were of small importance ; but he 
 was so fully convinced of the inconsistency of war with the 
 principles and precepts of the gospel, that he could not join 
 with it in any shape ; and believing that many others were 
 coming to see it so, he wished the laws and government of an 
 enlightened people might be so tolerant, that the progress of 
 the gospel spirit of peace might not be obstructed. On in- 
 quiring of him the origin of this concern in his mind, he 
 stated that some years ago, when in the house of a Friend, he 
 met with " Clarkson's Portraiture," which he read ; and although 
 he did not agree with Friends in general, yet their principles 
 in relation to war made a deep impression on his mind, and 
 the more he examined it the more he became convinced that 
 war was inconsistent with the spirit and precepts of the gos- 
 pel. After receiving a present from him of pamphlets which 
 he had published on the subject, and passing an hour in very 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGL.\J^D. 253 
 
 interesting conversation, we returned to dinner at the board- 
 ing-house. 
 
 My mind has been much exercised respecting the town of 
 Boston. When here three years ago, I felt an impressive be- 
 lief that there was a seed of Truth in Boston, but that large 
 public meetings in the steeple-houses or churches here was not 
 the way to visit this seed. The same belief noAV prevailed in 
 my mind, and a secret deep exercise of tender sympathy with 
 the poor in spirit was felt. I walked out under this exercise, 
 hoping some way might open to have a meeting with this class. 
 In this place there is an outside profession of first-day religion, 
 and a spirit of politeness toward Friends, on which they value 
 themselves for a kind of honourable toleration, widely different 
 from the persecuting spirit of their forefathers. But the way 
 of Truth being the way of the cross, may be as much obstruct- 
 ed by this superficial profession of external rites, ceremonies, 
 and liberal views of religion, as they are called, as by the rigid 
 zeal of the descendants of the Puritans formerly. 
 
 In a pensive walk in the afternoon, called to see Thomas 
 Wolcot, a 'friendly man, who lives much retired. Was in- 
 troduced into his study, which reminded me of a hermit's 
 cell. In two old desks and book-cases were many old vo- 
 lumes, among others a Bible in old English character, undi- 
 vided as to verses. I passed an hour very interestingly with 
 him, and he inquired why Friends from the southAvard did not 
 more frequently visit Boston. This led to some interesting 
 discussion relative to the state of the Bostonians. He referred 
 to Shaw's description of Boston, and stated that the high pro- 
 fessors of religion were now all toleration, and even thought it 
 a compliment that there was now so much liberality manifest 
 that their first churches were opened for Friends to hold meet- 
 ings in, whereas formerly Friends were persecuted, banished, 
 and even put to death. He appeared very anxious that the 
 old meeting-house should be rebuilt, and that a meeting of 
 Friends should again be held in Boston. He would have of- 
 fered us his house, but said it was not suitable for holding 
 meeting in, and so we thought. But he did not appear to be 
 acquainted with any others in town who, like himself, inclined 
 toward Friends. He is a very interesting and enlightened 
 
254 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 man, plain and humble in his appearance. Said the boys often 
 called him Quaker, and he is so far from being displeased that 
 he thinks it an honour. 
 
 No way opening for a meeting in Boston, my mind was 
 closely exercised. My feelings were quickened into a lively 
 travail for the oppressed, hidden, humble little ones ; but how 
 to find them, or how to obtain an opportunity with them, 
 neither myself nor my feeling friends with me could see. The 
 way seemed closed. Had Friends' meeting-house been fit to 
 hold meeting in, we could and probably should have gone and 
 sat down there, and held meeting from day to day. By this 
 means these hidden ones might have been discovered, and 
 strengthened or encouraged, but the old house was untenant- 
 able. I looked toward a public meeting, and all fear of man 
 was remarkably taken away in such a view, but I found Truth 
 did not own such a movement. It was a time of exercise not 
 soon to be forgotten. 
 
 3d. This morning, the way still appearing closed, I felt in- 
 clined to see the old meeting-house, as Friends are taking 
 measures to rebuild it. I did so, and afterward went into the 
 Exchange Cofiee-house, a very large public building adjoining, 
 the building of which I was told cost 800,000 dollars, and was 
 the ruin of one or more banks, and immense loss to many in- 
 dividuals. But curiosity not being my business, I returned to 
 my lodgings. Had a tendering opportunity with M. B. and 
 M. C.,two young Friends from Philadelphia, who had been to 
 Dover to attend the marriage of M.'s sister, and were now tra- 
 velling to gratify cm-iosity. Some remarks were made, and 
 tender counsel administered for their preservation in the meek- 
 ness and simplicity of Truth, amidst the many new scenes and 
 objects of speculation they might meet with, tending to draw 
 away their minds from the principle. May they not soon for- 
 get the views and impressions which they had in this opportu- 
 nity. 
 
 Left Boston and proceeded to Roxbury. Called to visit 
 George Johnson and wife, professors with Friends, but not 
 members. They came from England and settled here about 
 three months since. The wife's father had once been a mem- 
 ber among Friends, and they had both attended Friends' meet- 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 255 
 
 ings in England. After coming here tliey inquired for Friends, 
 and after some time heard of a meetins; at Lynn. Georo-e went 
 to it on foot fourteen miles, and since they both attend, though 
 it costs them three dollars for horse and chaise and toll. They 
 have to pass direct through the town of Boston. Here's an 
 example. We had a precious sitting with them, and felt near 
 unity with their spirits. Tender sympathy and encouragement 
 were communicated, and we believe this notice of these hum- 
 ble, tender-minded young persons was proper and seasonable. 
 Friends are much unknown by the inhabitants of Roxbury as 
 well as Boston, but we understand they are kindly disposed, 
 and some of them inclined to go to Friends' meetings with 
 these young people. Oh ! that they may stand faithful. 
 
 Hence we went on to Brighton, and after dining at an inn, 
 •walked on to the humble dwelling of Noah Worcester, not far dis- 
 tant. His house is a plain two-story building, not large, nor 
 fancifully elegant. I was introduced by my friends to Noah 
 and his family, consisting of his wife and an amiable son and 
 daughter. He appears to be a humble, meek-spirited man, 
 plain in his appearance, though dressed as a clergyman in dark 
 clothes. The furniture of his house is plain and simple. He 
 and his wife and children are friendly, affable, and kind ; 
 mildness and undissembled complaisance mark their manners 
 and address. They appear like a family of love and the 
 friends of peace. Noah is about sixty years of age, of aspect 
 interesting and engaging. AYe spent the afternoon in a free- 
 dom of conversation more like old acquaintance than strangers, 
 principally on subjects connected with or directly appertaining 
 to his favourite subject of peace. He showed us many inte- 
 resting letters he had received, among others one from Alex- 
 ander, Emperor of Russia, and one from the President of 
 Hayti. He also read some parts of letters of a very interest- 
 ing nature relative to the effects produced by spreading books 
 on the subject, one of which was: — A minister in Canada intro- 
 duced the " Solemn Review" to a British officer, by reading a few 
 passages. The officer at first rejected the sentiments, but on 
 reflection borrowed the book and read it, acknowledged he had 
 never before had any thoughts of the inconsistency of war, but 
 so forcible was the conviction wrought, that he resigned his 
 
256 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 commission in tlie army. Many other very interesting anec- 
 dotes were related, and it was an opportunity very grateful to 
 us all. I inquired of Noah how long he had been engaged in 
 the concern. "Why, sir," said he, "I suppose you are aware 
 that I have been a soldier." I told him I understood so from 
 his writings. He then stated, that during the latter part of 
 the American Revolution he followed shoe-making, and the first 
 impression was made on his mind by some conversation of one 
 Jonathan Philbrick, a Baptist, who came into the shop and 
 expressed his sentiments on war very freely as inconsistent 
 with Christianity ; but he thought him an enthusiast, and re- 
 garded very little what he said at that time, nor had he thought 
 much on the subject till about four years ago, when the trou- 
 bles of the late war called forth the former impression, and 
 induced him to examine the subject very closely, the result of 
 which his writings testify. Thus we see that a seed may con- 
 tinue long in the earth before it springs up, and grows, so as to 
 bring forth much fruit. 
 
 After tea we went to the house of John Kenrick, an enlight- 
 ened man, formerly a Baptist. From him we had information 
 that Noah Worcester entered the army as a fifer, in the Ame- 
 rican Revolution, and continued there about two years, and 
 being a ready writer they employed him as a clerk also. But 
 some prior engagements induced him to leave the army in 
 order to accomplish his marriage. He then followed shoe- 
 making, when the first impressions were made as above stated 
 upon his mind relative to war. He continued some time at 
 shoe-making and teaching school, and being of a serious mind 
 he occasionally exhorted at funerals, or when they had no mi- 
 nister. After some time, the minister of the parish proposed 
 to his congregation to dismiss himself and take Noah Worces- 
 ter for their minister, as he was the best preacher. The pro- 
 posal was acceded to, and Noah became a regular preacher, 
 and appears to have laboured, not for money or honour, 
 but for the good of mankind. After which he wrote and 
 published some religious books, one of which was Bible 
 News, in which he stated his views of the Trinity, as it 
 is called, in a diflTerent manner from the generally received 
 opinion. This brought him into more public notice, for a con- 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 257 
 
 troversy ensued among the clergy, and Noah was displaced hy 
 the New Hampshire Association of Congregational jMinisters, 
 as holding heretical opinions. He then removed to Brighton, 
 and maintained his doctrines by able .and cogent reasonings 
 from the Scriptures, proving the doctrine of the Trinity to be 
 unfounded and unsupported by the testimony of the sacred 
 records. He has lately been invited again to join in the con- 
 troversy on this subject, but he firmly declined, saying he in- 
 tended to devote the remainder of his days to peace ; and he 
 considers all controversy as a species of war. 
 
 John Kenrick is also much engaged in writing, and in 
 searching the Scriptures. He has published several essays 
 — one on the subject of slavery — and some views, very 
 diiferent from the popular current, on the practice of send- 
 ing missionaries to the East Indies. His ideas of minis- 
 try and of the ordinances are much enlightened, and he is 
 approaching toward Friends in his views of many things. 
 His reading and information are extensive, and he is very 
 communicative. He read to us many of his small essays, 
 and entertained us during the evening, and next morning till 
 ten o'clock, so that it was with some reluctance we left him. 
 He is much attached to Friends ; his family also, a son and 
 daughter, were very kind and friendly, and the visit I believe 
 will be useful to them all. 
 
 4th. After receiving a present of some books from this 
 kind friend, and having some very interesting conversation 
 on several important subjects, we left his hospitable mansion ; 
 and as my mind still felt exercised about Boston, and a hope 
 that some way might open for a meeting, we set out to return 
 there. Called at Koah Worcester's door, and receiving a 
 present of some books from him, and a pressing invitation to 
 call again, we went on to Boston. Arrived there about eleven 
 o'clock, and found the town in much commotion on account 
 of a fire last evening, which had reduced to ruins the Ex- 
 change Cofiee House in which I was the preceding morning. 
 All prospect of obtaining a meeting among them now seemed 
 at an end, for the present at least. However, this second 
 endeavour, and the exercise attending it, tended to release 
 my mind in some degree, in the consciousness of having done 
 17 
 
258 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 what we could consistent with the pointings of Truth. 
 Another important circumstance to me, was an acquaintance 
 and interview with Charles Cleaveland, a member of the 
 Peace Society. In an interesting conversation with him, I 
 endeavoured to sound the depth of the views of that establish- 
 ment, and found his mind taking more than a superficial hold 
 of the subject, and having a particular reference to a radical 
 change of heart as the permanent basis of peace on earth 
 and good-will to men. I opened to him my view of the 
 ground of Christian love, and the foundation Friends have 
 built upon in respect to this important subject, w^hich so 
 accorded with his feelings that he immediately proposed call- 
 ing a meeting of the Massachusetts Peace Society, that I 
 might open my views to them collectively. Not feeling 
 liberty for such an appointment, I informed him I would 
 weigh the proposal, and should it open in the line of duty I 
 would let him know. I believe him to be a sincere-hearted 
 man. 
 
 After dining at the widow Campbell's, and having viewed the 
 ruins of the Exchange Coffee House, occasioned by the con- 
 flagration last evening — its lofty walls being mostly standing, 
 though a part had fallen on the old meeting-house of Friends 
 — and after a tender parting with my kind friends William 
 and Lydia Dean, left Boston in company with Samuel Phil- 
 brick, w-hom I found to be a true yoke-fellow and companion 
 in spirit as well as person, and proceeded to Hanover that 
 evening. Lodged at the house of Benjamin Percival. Next 
 morning attended the meeting at Pembroke at the usual 
 hour ; and although some notice was spread at my request, it 
 was a small meeting, there having been one appointed by Pe- 
 ter Hoxie on third-day last, and Friends living remote and 
 scattered, seemed to conclude one meeting in the middle of 
 the week enough. In this meeting my mind was opened to 
 show the nature of true spiritual worship, and that no act of 
 a religious nature could be rightly and acceptably performed 
 without the quickening influence of the Spirit. Hence only 
 gospel ministry had its origin ; and that all eflorts in the will 
 and wisdom of the creature are unavailing to make us 
 acceptable, or to edify one another. In the evening had a 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 259 
 
 very interesting meeting at a school-liouse about four miles 
 south of Pembroke, in which I was led to open the nature of 
 the kingdom of God in the soul of man. It was a precious 
 opportunity ; the company was composed chiefly of Baptists 
 and other professors, who were very quiet, and the meeting 
 ended in much solemnity. 
 
 6th. Rested and wrote this morning, because of a disap- 
 pointment of having a meeting at Duxbury. Two Friends 
 went last evening to give notice for a meeting at ten o'clock 
 this morning, but the busy people disapproved the time, and 
 the priests seemed cool, so they returned to consult about 
 having it in the afternoon. This interfering with other pros- 
 pects, we had with regret to relinquish the concern ; and in the 
 afternoon had a very satisfactory meeting at a Friend's house 
 (Stephen Rogers's) at Marshfield, near the sea-coast, attended 
 chiefly by other societies. Truth owned this opportunity ; and 
 after it we rode seven miles to an evening meeting at a hall 
 near B. Percival's. It was large, and divinely favoured. 
 Thomas Anthony, and William Reynolds his companion, 
 attended ; and Thomas appeared in a lively testimony, and 
 then myself in the opening of important doctrine and counsel 
 in the love of the gospel. The minister Wolcott attended, 
 and sat very solid and attentive. I have a belief that this 
 day's exercise is not all lost. The people were now very 
 anxious that we should have more meetings, and a number 
 of proposals were made, but it now appeared they were 
 stirred up and in a hungering state, and I thought it best to 
 leave them. Two able ministers, John Bailey and Benjamin 
 Percival, reside here. I found a concern to stir up B. P. to 
 the exercise of his gift, and I believe he was sensible of with- 
 holding more than is meet in labouring among his neighbours 
 in this way ; and yet he has great good-will for the cause. But 
 that kind of charity or faith that says, " Go, be you warmed 
 and fed, notwithstanding ye give not those things that are need- 
 ful," may apply to such a state of unwarrantable difiidence 
 or slothfulness in the Lord's business. Oh! that the truly 
 quickened and enlightened everywhere may be diligent and 
 faithful in occupying the gifts conferred on them for the edi- 
 
260 JOURNAL OF JOHX COMLY. [1818. 
 
 fication of the cliurch, and for the gathering of the lost sheep 
 of the house of Israel. 
 
 7th. Took leave of Benjamin and Phebe Percival, precious 
 friends ; also parted ■with Thomas Anthony, the brother of 
 Job Scott's wife, and proceeded "with my dear friend S. P. to 
 Plymouth, twelve miles. This is situated on the coast of Mas- 
 sachusetts Bay, and is the place where the first colony landed 
 in the twelfth-month, 1622. It is a town of respectable ap- 
 pearance, but the country around is poor and barren. Here 
 we dined, and set out in a heavy shower toward Sandwich. 
 Our road lay eleven or twelve miles through the woods, almost 
 without inhabitants. In this distance, only two or three 
 small tenements scattered along. The soil is very poor for 
 tillage, and is therefore kept for timber for the markets of 
 Boston, Cape Cod, and Nantucket. Arrived at Silas Swift's, 
 at Sandwich, in the evening — thirty miles from Hanover. 
 
 8th. Attended meeting at Sandwich, and passed the after- 
 noon at Ebenezer Wing's, amidst a large circle of Friends. 
 In the evening had a remarkably tendering opportunity at the 
 house of Silas Swift with a number of young people, some of 
 whom will not soon forget the impression then made on their 
 minds. May they be obedient ! 
 
 Met with some interesting books at this place, and on in- 
 quiry found a monthly meeting has been held here since 1672 ; 
 that at Rochester, a branch of this monthly meeting, a sepa- 
 ration took place among Friends under Timothy Davis and 
 Benjamin Bumfus. Timothy returned to Friends, but B. 
 Bumfus continued to hold his principles and the meeting-house 
 at Rochester, in which he held meetings till near his close, 
 about two years since. In his last illness it is said he advised 
 his hearers to return to Friends ; and the most of them have 
 since been received at New Bedford, and the meeting-house is 
 again in possession of Friends, and a meeting held there. 
 
 9th. Set out accompanied by Samuel Wing and Mercy 
 Kelly, and passed through a rough, barren, bushy country, 
 where in many places the road was so narrow and crooked 
 that had we met any other carriage we should have found 
 diflBculty. Passed by the head of Buzzard's Bay, and dined 
 at Rochester ; but way not opening for a meeting there, went 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IX NEW ENGL.\ND. 261 
 
 on to Obadiali Davis's, at Long Plain, where we were hospita- 
 bly entertained, and next day had a meeting at this place ; 
 after which rode to New Bedford, where we wei'e welcomed by 
 dear old William Rotch and his family. 
 
 11th. Accompanied by William Rotch, junior, and his sister 
 E. R. and son and A. R., attended the little meeting of Friends 
 of Rochester held at a school-house at Occoot. It was small, 
 several being sick and some absent, but a word of encourage- 
 ment was oifered them to dwell in the littleness of humility, 
 so that they might know the foundation to be sure, having 
 this seal: "The Lord knoweth them that are his," however 
 lonesome their situation or few their numbers. In the after- 
 noon had a meeting at Rochester meeting-house, whither came 
 Matthew Ferris, an aged Friend from Roxbury, New York 
 State, travelling in the ministry alone. This meeting was 
 small, but testimony borne to the nature of the gospel, as 
 "the power of God unto salvation to every one that be- 
 lie veth." Returned to New Bedford, twelve miles. 
 
 12th. Attended Bedford week-day meeting, in which I was 
 led to open in much tenderness the necessity of labouring to 
 get below the surface ; and under the similitude of frequently 
 washing ourselves and garments to show that no substitute 
 for the spii'itual work of regeneration and renewing of the 
 Holy Ghost can avail in the cleansing of the soul. "For if 
 any man will not work, neither should he eat," &c. 
 
 Dined with William Rotch, junior, and took tea at Samuel 
 Rodman's. In the evening had a very large and satisfactory 
 meeting with the coloured people of the town. They were 
 sober and attentive. A large number of the towns-people also 
 attended, and Matthew Ferris had a short testimony in the 
 meeting. The poor coloured people seemed thankful for being 
 thus noticed, and Truth opened the way in plain simple lan- 
 guage to hold up to their view the simplicity of the nature of 
 true religion in the heart, and the great advantages resulting 
 from obedience to the Divine Monitor within, which they had 
 felt reproving for evil and speaking peace when they did well. 
 I believe many of their minds were awakened, and renewed 
 desires raised in them to walk in the fear of the Lord. 
 
262 JOURNAL OF JOHN COI^ILY. [1818. 
 
 12th. Spent the forenoon in writing and in company with 
 Friends comfortably. Dined at Job Otis's, with M. F. and 
 Russel Davis, and then crossed Accushnet River with dear old 
 William Rotch and divers other friends and young people to 
 a meeting held in the steeple-house at Fairhaven. It was a 
 good and solemn meeting. The difficulty of overcoming our 
 educational jircjudices was held up to view, and illustrated by 
 the instance of Peter and the Apostles respecting the Gentile 
 at the house of Cornelius. The necessity of founding our 
 belief and practice on a more sure foundation than tradition 
 pointed out ; and this foundation, Christ Jesus, was preached 
 in the demonstration of the Spirit, with an invitation to 
 " prove all things, and hold fast that which is good." The 
 doctrine of Truth and corresponding practice relative to many 
 important testimonies held by Friends proposed as subjects of 
 examination by this criterion or standard in the mind, the 
 light of Christ or gift of God, by which man can come to a 
 certain evidence of what is good, and an earnest call to "hold 
 fast" and follow after those things that make for peace. It 
 was to me a very interesting meeting, and my soul bowed 
 vmder a sense of the power of God, qualifying to declare the 
 Truth among them as it is in Jesus. 
 
 In the evening had a very large crowded meeting at New 
 Bedford for the people of the town generally, and several of 
 their ministers attended. Many important doctrines and 
 views were opened, and the meeting was quiet and solemn. 
 The pure mind was, I believe, stirred up in many, and a re- 
 newed call to faithfulness extended. After I sat down, a 
 young man, Micah Ruggles, of Rochestei', appeared in a few 
 words. This Friend about two years since was remarkably 
 visited, and, being a military character, has had many deep 
 baptisms and trials to pass through, as well in his own mind 
 as from his relations and associates. Being of a strong mind, 
 a quick and lively sensibility, he endured much suffering pre- 
 vious to his giving up to the heavenly vision, but appears now 
 to be settling on the sure foundation. Some unusually re- 
 markable circumstances have attended the various stages of 
 his conversion. May the Great Shepherd of Israel hold him 
 in his hand, and fix his feet upon the Rock immovable. 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IX NEW ENGLAND. 263 
 
 My sympathy lias this day been feelingly excited toward a 
 class of people in these maritime towns, as well as other parts 
 of New England, who obtain a livelihood for themselves and 
 families by emigrations into the Southern States during the 
 winter, for the purpose of obtaining employment, — some in 
 the coasting trade, some in mechanic arts, some in cutting and 
 hauling timber for ship-building, and a great variety of other 
 occupations. It is believed there are of this class about ten 
 thousand in Xew England that thus annually leave their 
 homes during the winter, and another class that are employed 
 during the summer in the cod fisheries on the Great Banks of 
 Newfoundland, that thus leave their families and children, 
 and are exposed to hardships and privations, social and rcli- 
 ligious, in order to obtain support for their families. Another 
 class are those who are employed in the whale fisheries, and 
 are generally absent on voyages from one to two years in 
 the Pacific ocean. Now these poor men have very little 
 opportunity of social religious instruction ; their minds, it is 
 to be feared, become much alienated from the Divine life, and 
 corruption spreads from one to another. What can be done 
 for a reformation ? May those who live at home, at ease, en- 
 joying many privileges of religious society, and many oppor- 
 tunities of civil and mental improvement, remember the poor ; 
 think of the wandering inhabitants of New England ; duly 
 consider who toils, and roams, and sails, and endures hard- 
 ships in obtaining the luxuries or necessaries of life from 
 foreign climes. May they remember the many widows that 
 are made by these means, and the many difficulties and priva- 
 tions that are endured by the wives and children of the ten 
 thousand men of New England thus exposed. Under such 
 considerations, who can be ungrateful for the favours and 
 blessings and privileges he enjoys at home? 
 
 14th. Had a meeting at Newtown, four miles west of New 
 Bedford. M. F. attended, and appeared twice in testimony. 
 I had also a testimony on the necessity of patience inwardly 
 and outwardly, especially in waiting on God for a renewal of 
 our strength, and for receiving a qualification to worship 
 acceptably or perform any religious duty. M. Buggies was 
 present, and I understood went to the meeting with a sincere 
 
264 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 desire that lie miglit be favoured witli evidence of the imme- 
 diate influence of the Spirit in gospel preaching. This he 
 was satisfactorily furnished with, to the settlement of some 
 doubts that had tried his mind. Dined at James Arnold's, 
 his wife a daughter of William Rotch, junior. 
 
 loth. Left New Bedford, accompanied by Benjamin Rod- 
 man and a number of other Friends, and attended Aponegan- 
 set meeting, in Avhich I was enlarged in testimony on the 
 nature of worship, and the advantages to mankind derived 
 from an intercourse and communion between God and the soul 
 through the institution of social worship, an obligation binding 
 on all rational intelligent beings, and to be performed in 
 spirit and in truth, through the mediation of Jesus Christ, by 
 whom we have access to the Father, and through whom is 
 conferred on us the blessings and advantages designed for our 
 happiness, and for our increasing union with the inexhaustible 
 Fountain of Light, and Life, and Love. It was a season of 
 Divine favour, in which Heaven seemed open, and some of our 
 minds were illuminated on this all-important subject in a man- 
 ner never before Avitnessed. May it be to the glory of God 
 and promotive of the good of those present. Dined at Osmond 
 Wood's, and in the afternoon had a very full meeting at Slo- 
 cum's Neck. A large number of Friends from Aponeganset 
 and Bedford attended, and it was a precious season also. I 
 was led, in a manner never before opened in public testimony 
 by me, to declare of the operation of the principle in my 
 childhood, through the days of my youth, and of my call to 
 the ministry, and labours of love in visiting the families of 
 coloured people and others in my own neighbourhood, and 
 thence to appointing many meetings within a fevf miles of my 
 native place, &c. Thus I was led to encourage those present 
 to faithfulness in obedience to the manifestation of light in 
 their own minds, and it was a memorable opportunity ; even 
 little children appeared melted into contrition, and I believe 
 many minds renewed covenant, in desires to dedicate them- 
 selves unreservedly to follow Jesus Christ thus revealed to 
 them . 
 
 Lodged at Warren GifTord's. He and his wife are precious 
 sinccrc-hcartcd Friends, Avho but a few years since became 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 265 
 
 members, and both have received gifts in the ministry very 
 acceptable to Friends. Their eldest daughter, a precious 
 child, recently received into membership, and her sister it is 
 likely will soon follow her example. Oh ! how comfortable 
 to see the youth choosing the plainness and simplicity of the 
 truth for their portion, in preference to the butterfly vanities 
 and short-lived bubbles of imaginary earthly pleasures. In 
 this house was the sister of W. G. in a state of derangement, 
 suffering apparently with much distress of mind. My sympa- 
 thy was excited toward her and the family, and impressions 
 were made on my mind inducing thankfulness for the good 
 gifts of God to man in favouring with reason and understand- 
 ing, even though so much abused and perverted by many. 
 The Frankford Asylum, and the benevolent feelings that have 
 been exercised toward this afflicted class of our fellow-crea- 
 tures in the institution and management of that establish- 
 ment, were revived in my mind with augmented interest, and 
 desires for the blessing of Heaven on these philanthropic 
 means, for alleviating the sufferings of those who are thus 
 afflicted. May these benefits be extended far and wide among 
 the great family of mankind. 
 
 16th. Rested at the house of our kind friends, and wrote 
 this morning. At two o'clock had a large meeting at West- 
 port, the meeting to which Paul Cuffee formerly belonged. 
 He has left a precious memorial in the hearts of his friends 
 and neighbours, as well as more publicly. Divei's Friends 
 from neighbouring meetings attended this; and it was a 
 favoured one. Doctrine and counsel flowed freely, and great 
 solemnity prevailed. My soul has cause to bovv' in humble 
 acknowledgment of the goodness and qualifying help of him 
 "who putteth forth his own and goeth before them." Went 
 with Eussel Davis and wife to lodge at Joseph Trip's. His 
 wafe was thrown out of a chaise a few months since, and so 
 hurt as to be unable to walk without crutches ; but she attends 
 meetings, and is a sweet spirited woman, having an accepta- 
 ble gift in the ministry. Joseph also, an Israelite indeed ! is 
 an approved minister. Oh ! how comfortable to a traveller 
 labouring in "the fields already white unto the harvest," to 
 find such dedicated minds, whom the Lord is qualifying for 
 
266 JOURNAL OF JOHN COxMLY. [1818. 
 
 his work and service, and sending "forth into his harvest." 
 This evening we had a precious opportunity with Sarah Chase, 
 a sick young woman who had been teaching school in the 
 familj'. 
 
 17th. Our kind friends accompanying us, we had a crowded 
 meeting at Centre. Some very important doctrines were 
 opened on the subjects of original sin, on war, &c., and the 
 equality of Divine Love with the means of redemption, held 
 up to view and freely offered to the children of men. Rode 
 to New Bedford, and in the evening had a very large and 
 remarkably quiet and solemn meeting in the Methodist meet- 
 ing-house at Accushnet. In testimony was led in the demon- 
 stration of the Spirit to open the nature of the dispensation of 
 John and that of Christ following after — the first being prepara- 
 tory, the latter thoroughly cleansing the heart ; this operation 
 of the Spirit and baptism of the Holy Ghost insisted on as essen- 
 tial to salvation, and that by which we become members of 
 the church of Christ. That this being acknowledged by all 
 true Christians, the sign or shadow is not essential nor profita- 
 ble, but may induce a state of resting in a mere moral or 
 ceremonial righteousness deceptive to man, who looks on the 
 outside or external appearance, as Samuel did when Eliab 
 was before him ; but the Lord looks at the heart, and there- 
 fore the necessity of self-examination and coming to that light 
 which, being a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the 
 heart, Avill shoAV us where and what we are in the sight of God. 
 Many other very interesting subjects treated on, particularly 
 silent worship and prayer, also the need of attending to the 
 Master's command or permission in telling experiences, preach- 
 ing, &c. 
 
 18th. Had a meeting in the town-house at Rochester. My 
 soul was bowed into deep humility and baptism of spirit, and 
 under this exercise, after Clark Stevens, a valuable Friend 
 from jNIontpclier in Averment, had delivered a short testimony, 
 I stood up with these words: "And blessed is he whosoever 
 shall not be offended in me;" then reciting the occasion of 
 this watchword, in the message sent to John of the works of 
 Christ, as the evidence of faith, was led to open the nature 
 of a saving belief in the Messiah independent of outward tcsti- 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 267 
 
 mony, and that "he that believeth in the Son hath the witness 
 in himself." This witness or internal evidence has its cer- 
 tainty in those works wrought in the mind by Jesus Christ in 
 his Father's name, which bear incontestable evidence of a 
 power superior to man, and are now answerable in spirit to 
 those outward miracles of "the blind receive their sight, the 
 lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, and the 
 dead are raised; and blessed is he that shall not be oifended 
 in me." The appearance of the light or seed in the mind 
 being small and simple, some are offended at it, and call it 
 the carpenter's son, a natural light, &c. Some are offended 
 at the cross, and some go as far as the young man in keeping 
 the moral law, and are disposed to inquire further because 
 they feel a blank, a void unsatisfied ; yet when the terms are 
 opened for their attainment to eternal life, they turn away 
 sorrowful — are offended. The nature of these professions 
 opened, in which the life of the creaturely will consists, and 
 the necessity of laying down this life or losing it in order to 
 find life eternal ; the powerful operation of living faith illus- 
 trated in its effects or works in the renovated mind, as evi- 
 dence of its being the gift of God unto salvation to all them 
 that believe, and its baptizing influence introducing the soul 
 into the very nature and spirit of its Divine original, whence 
 a certain knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ was obtained, 
 and also that of salvation. The fruits of this radical con- 
 version manifest in the disciples of Christ, as respects their 
 conduct and deportment among men ; by this they become 
 lights in the world and witnesses of the resurrection of Christ, 
 and are made useful in the church for the promotion of the 
 blessed kingdom and government of the Messiah in the hearts 
 of others. The whole applied to the state of minds present ; 
 and may it fasten as a nail in a sure place. 
 
 Micah Ruggles, living near here, is a young man of about 
 twenty-seven j'^ears of age. He had been a military captain ; 
 and one from whom the world expected great things, as also 
 his father, being a young man of uncommon activity and 
 energy of mind. He was remarkably awakened about two 
 years ago by the immediate influence of Divine light in his 
 mind, and for a time, while the whirhvind, the earthquake, 
 
268 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 and the fire were passing through his soul, it seemed as if 
 nature might fail, but at length the still small voice was dis- 
 tinguished, and he became as a little child. Great conflicts 
 within and without have attended him, yet all things evidently 
 working together for good to his soul. He is now just coming 
 forth in testimony in meetings, in the simplicity of a little 
 child. His views of the spirituality of the work of religion 
 in the soul are very exalted, ascribing all the power, glory, 
 and honour to Him that sitteth on the throne and to the 
 Lamb for ever and ever. 
 
 In the afternoon, had a meeting in a large Congregational 
 meeting-house at Sniptuit, near or in Middleborough. Clark 
 Stevens appeared in a precious testimony, and myself also 
 had to add in explanation of the nature of waiting on God in 
 spirit for renewal of strength ; and pointing to the Messiah as a 
 true teacher, who would not leave those who thus come to learn 
 of him in spirit, and place their dependence on him for help and 
 strength; showing also that the bread that comes from heaven 
 must be daily waited for in humility and watchfulness. This 
 congregation has been left by a hireling by the name of Chad- 
 wick, and they are now very desirous that Friends should hold 
 meetings among them. There is a precious seeking seed 
 among them, according to my impressions. 0. Davis was at 
 this meeting, and I recommended him to be mindful of these 
 destitute neighbours. 
 
 Returned the same evening with Mary Rotch and Elizabeth 
 Rodman in their carriage to the hospitable mansion of dear 
 old William Rotch, now near eighty-four years of age, and 
 alive in the love of Truth ; fervently desirous for the advance- 
 ment thereof among men, and remarkably attentive to Friends 
 engaged therein. This evening had a parting opportunity 
 with him, his wife, and several of their children and others. 
 
 19th. Set out with Benjamin Rodman for Tiverton. The 
 ground covered with snow. Had renewed cause to be thank- 
 ful for the kind attention of Friends in and about New Bed- 
 ford. I have seldom, if ever, witnessed more feeling sympathy 
 and tenderness. I have been instructed, and my views of men 
 and things, and the operations of Divine Grace under various 
 circumstances, have been much enlarged by this very interest- 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 2G9 
 
 ing visit to ISTew Bedford and its vicinity. May I dwell in deep 
 humility and i-everence, ascribing all praise and honour to 
 Him who has led me about and instructed me, and kept me as 
 in his holy care and the pavilion of his love. 
 
 After dining at Abraham Barker's, had a small meeting at 
 Tiverton in the afternoon, and some tender counsel was offered 
 the youth to begin eai'ly the work of religion, and some en- 
 couragement to the sincere-hearted to be faithful. Ah ! these 
 little meetings, held only on first-days, how they dwindle ! 
 Care and sympathy among Friends that live in fulness, I fear, 
 are sometimes wanting toward such. May I remember this 
 w^atchword myself. 
 
 Crossed to Portsmouth, Rhode Island, and put up at the 
 hospitable mansion of Samuel Thurston. Found him a very 
 interesting Friend, and he and his wife very kind to us. 
 
 About sixty years ago, and prior, it was the practice in New 
 England for any sober, steady persons who attended Friends' 
 meetings, (if they inclined,) to accomplish their marriage among 
 Friends, and thenceforward be considered members, without 
 any other form of reception. About that time the yearly 
 meeting revised or collected a code of rules of Discipline, in 
 which was proposed by a committee to all such for the time 
 being, that if they wished they should be considered members, 
 but if not, that they should not be permitted to marry among 
 Friends. Here seems to have been introduced a systematic 
 mode of receiving members ; antecedent to this, all that chose 
 to acknowledge themselves Quakers had liberty to do so, with- 
 out any formula of rules, and this appears by many of the old 
 records of monthly meetings in New England. How far the 
 present mode is a real improvement in all its bearings may be 
 examined by its effects in society, and on those who are one 
 in principle with us, but stand without, by reason of many 
 Friends' active in discipline, requiring more than they have 
 attained of the growth of a perfect man. 
 
 In the afternoon had a meeting at Portsmouth to satisfac- 
 tion. A considerable body of Friends reside on this part of 
 the fertile island, mostly farmers. 
 
 21st. Set out for Newport. Called by the way to see 
 Elisha Allen, the uncle of H. Dyer, and were kindly treated 
 
270 JOUKNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 by lilm. Arrived at David Buffum's and passed the remainder 
 of tlie day there. In the evening had the company of dear 
 Ruth Davis and companion from Bedford, who are on a reli- 
 gious visit, and about to visit families here. Ruth's sister and 
 her husband were with them and we had a very precious reli- 
 gious opportunity together, in which the language of encou- 
 ragement flowed to the exercised labourers. 
 
 When S. Thurston was convinced of Friends' principles, and 
 stood firm in his testimony against war during the American Re- 
 volution, he found a concern to attend Friends' meeting, but 
 was not noticed by any Friend till he became discouraged, and 
 adopted a conclusion that if no one had any feeling for him, 
 so as to visit him, he could not request to become a member. 
 Divine wisdom condescended to his weak state, for in a few 
 days a Friend came to visit him, and he then made fipplication 
 and was received. This relation brought my mind under close 
 exercise on account of many, very many, that are convinced qf 
 the principle of Truth, and attend Friends' meetings, but I fear 
 the hand of encouragement is too little held out toward such. 
 I remember the account of Margaret Lucas, when a Friend 
 only shook hands with her at the close of a meeting, and the 
 effect it had on her mind. I called to mind my own meeting, 
 and the great number of this class that attend it, and my own 
 deficiencies arose in view. May this admonition sink deep 
 into my mind, and may all who read this, and who may be en- 
 joying the invaluable privilege of religious membership, be ex- 
 cited to remember those who are without, and who like tender 
 lambs are bleating after the flock, and to whom a little notice 
 or word of encouragement may prove a helji indeed. 
 
 22d. Attended Newport meeting in the morning, and had 
 to minister to a state of impotency like him that lay thirty and 
 eight years, and had no man when the water was troubled to 
 put him into the pool — that passage illustrated for the encou- 
 ragement of such, as also that of the cripple healed by the 
 power of Jesus, through Peter and John, with an application 
 of the injunction, Rise, take up thy bed and walk. It Avas a 
 time of favour, and I believe the power of Truth reached some 
 minds. May they arise and shake themselves from the dust 
 of the earth, and advance in their heavenly journey. 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 271 
 
 After dining at David Williams's, set out to cross tlie water 
 to Canonicut Island, B. R. having gone over in the morning 
 to appoint a meeting there, but we met him about half way, 
 on his return ; and no meeting being appointed for want of time 
 to give notice, &c., we returned to the afternoon meeting at 
 Newport. I had opened my concern to have a meeting on 
 Canonicut early in the morning, but it was discouraged or un- 
 • attended to till near eleven o'clock, and thus through delay' was 
 frustrated. Oh ! how much the supineness of Friends may be 
 like a block in the way to the promotion of the blessed cause. 
 However, having done what I could, I felt calm and resigned. 
 Took tea at Clark Rodman's, who has an interesting family of 
 daughters. 
 
 Spent part of the evening with Abigail Robinson, a precious, 
 sweet-spirited Friend, afflicted with much bodily weakness, but 
 an example of the meekness, resignation, and fortitude of the 
 Christian. She is a sister to dear Mary R. Morton of Phila- 
 delphia. Had a tendering opportunity with her, in which the 
 sweet fellowship of the gospel of peace abounded to our comfort. 
 
 Lodged at David Williams's, who has a hopeful family of 
 children. Friends are decreasing in number at Newport, not 
 more than about twenty families and parts in the town, and 
 these want stirring up to faithfulness. Energy of spirit and a 
 living travail wanting among them. 
 
 23d. Set sail this morning for Canonicut, and had a good 
 meeting at Friends' meeting-house at Jamestown. Many seek- 
 ing minds on that island, but the few Friends there are weak 
 and discouraged ; they are alone, and but few in number, per- 
 haps less than twenty in all. They want help from their 
 friends. One woman Friend there, on being visited by dear Ruth 
 Davis, said there had not been a Friend at her house for above 
 a year. A committee has the oversight of this declining meet- 
 ing, but have not attended it for some months past. Oh ! for 
 an increase of gospel love and Christian care and sympathy. 
 The week-day meeting is dropped ; and such is the discourage- 
 ment and weakness of the fewFi'iends here, that some talk of 
 moving away in order to get nearer to a larger meeting, so 
 that the first-day meeting will be likely to be discontinued also. 
 I felt much for these Friends, and also for the people of the 
 
272 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 islaml. A language of encouragement flowed toward them, 
 and it was a precious, reviving shower to the parched or 
 thirsty ground. My soul ! feel thou for the lonesome, the dis- 
 couraged, and those remote from the bosom of society. Think 
 of the poor and afflicted, and those who are deprived of many 
 of the precious privileges thou art daily enjoying. 
 
 On our return, after dining with Anna Green, a minister, 
 we were accompanied by Benjamin Hadwin and Sarah Earl, 
 and called to see Sarah's mother and two aunts, each upward 
 of seventy years of age. Had a religious opportunity with 
 them, and felt peace in thus visiting the aged, who are much 
 confined through infii'mity. It was an instructive season to me. 
 Then called to see the sisters of 11. Dyer, who appear to live 
 comfortably, and attend Friends' meeting, though not in mem- 
 bership. Went out of town to lodge at David Buff'um's. 
 
 24th. In company with D. Buffum went to visit Isaac Mit- 
 chell. About a Aveek since, as he was attending his windmill, 
 his coat caught in the spindle, and before he could extricate 
 himself, it whirled him round, he supposed, an hundred times, 
 and tore or twisted off all his clothes, except his collar, 
 wristbands, and stockings. He was very much bruised, so that 
 his life had been despaired of, but was now on the recovery. 
 A marvellous deliverance and merciful preservation. We had 
 a solemn opportunity with him and his wife, which, with his 
 wonderful escape in such imminent danger, I hope will be pro- 
 fitably remembered by him, and his future life be devoted to 
 the service of his heavenly Preserver. 
 
 Set out for Portsmouth, and called at A. Anthony's. Had 
 a precious opportunity with his afflicted daughter Mary and 
 family. She has been mostly confined at home with weakness 
 and a consumptive complaint for about two years. After din- 
 ing with them, travelled on through Tiverton and a rough, 
 stony country to Slade's Ferry, on Taunton Kiver; crossed, 
 and lodged at William Slade's, where we were kindly enter- 
 tained. 
 
 25th. Accompanied by William and Phebe Slade, we went 
 to Freetown meeting. This is a very small meeting, though 
 about a hundred years old. About twenty members attended, 
 and I had an encouraging testimony, as well as something 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 273 
 
 tending to stir up the pure mind to industry in occupying its 
 gifts. Dined at Sabrina Show's, a widow, having some hope- 
 ful children. "While there David Show and Mary his wife, a 
 sister of R. Davis, came in, and we had a precious season to- 
 gether, in which the encouragement given to Gideon and the pro- 
 mise to the faithful widow of Sarepta, were revived, and also 
 that of the master to the little ones, "Fear not, little flock, it 
 is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom." Af- 
 ter we left them I understood Mary Show had just opened her 
 mouth in testimony among them. She is a woman of tender 
 spirit ; may she be faithful. 
 
 26th. Attended a large meeting of goodly Friends at So- 
 merset, and had to open to them the nature and advantages of 
 silent worship, and a thorough cleansing by the baptism of the 
 Holy Spirit, exciting them to diligence in the great work of 
 the soul's salvation. It was their preparative meeting, in 
 which I had some service respecting the appointment and sta- 
 tion of overseers and the preciousness of love and unity. 
 
 In the evening had a meeting at Fall River. Although it 
 rained about the time of collecting, a very considerable num- 
 ber of people met, and it was a very quiet, solid opportunity, 
 in which important gospel truths were declared, and the wit- 
 ness in many minds I believe was reached. I had abundant 
 cause to bless my heavenly Helper. Although it was very 
 dark, we returned across the river, and lodged at William 
 Slade's. The longer we were with these Friends the more we 
 were mutually interested and attached to one another. It is 
 not a place that is sometimes called " Head-quarters," that is, 
 where travelling Friends generally put up, but we have cause 
 to believe it has been useful to these improving Friends to be 
 thus noticed. It may be well for travellers in the ministry to 
 be mindful of their guide, even in the places where they call 
 for accommodations ; and Friends who act as conductors to 
 strangers would do well to remember goodly young Friends 
 and their families on such occasions. Such notice may be of 
 great advantage and encouragement, and may bring them for- 
 ward into more usefulness in society. 
 
 27th. Tliis morning, just before we set out, William Slade 
 put into my hands the New Testament, open at the third chap- 
 is 
 
274 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 ter of Revelations, which, on viewing, I felt an openness to 
 read several verses, as 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, part of 7, 8, 10 and 11, 
 and then applied a part thereof to a state present; one of 
 those poor creatures, D. S., an honest, kind, agreeable man, 
 but who sometimes grievously gives way to taking strong 
 drink to excess. His sober reflections give him great trou- 
 ble therefor, but his mind is weak and his appetite strong 
 when once excited. I endeavoured to encourage him to dili- 
 gent watchfulness and faithfulness to his convictions. After 
 he went out, I had a word of encouragement to William and 
 Phebe, approving of their kindness and attention to this poor 
 man, and that they might not be weary in well-doing. I ob- 
 served with satisfaction that they always invited him to table 
 with them, and treated him with respect and kindness, and 
 this is more likely to add strength to his weakness than to keep 
 him at a distance. William told me he had an impression 
 on his mind to give me the Testament open at that place, and 
 I believe it was a right impression, productive of instruction 
 and peace to us both. 
 
 Took leave of our kind friends, and rode toward Providence 
 through the rain. On the way, met two little children, per- 
 haps four and six years old, carrying a bottle. Inquired of 
 them, and found they were sent for rum, barefooted and very 
 thinly clad, and the weather cold, with hail and rain. Oh ! 
 how my heart was shocked at the thought, and the feeling of 
 commiseration for these poor, suffering little children ! How 
 dreadful the effects of this destroying article. 
 
 Arrived at Moses Brown's about noon. He is a great anti- 
 quarian, has an extensive library of Friends' books and ma- 
 nuscripts, and is possessed of much valuable information, par- 
 ticularly respecting our Society and public concerns. He 
 came among Friends by convincement about the year 1773, 
 and has been a very useful man in society. He is now in his 
 eighty-first year, but retains his faculties with remarkable 
 brightness, is very communicative and interesting, and has great 
 wealth. Of this he is also very liberal ; has given forty acres 
 of land for the use of the Yearl}'- Meeting School, besides large 
 ■contributions toward that and other public institutions. Spent 
 the afternoon and evening very agreeably with this dear old 
 
Chai'.IX.] travels I\ new ENGLAND. 275 
 
 friend ; and next morning wrote home. After dinner went to 
 view the building erected for the boarding-school, standing on 
 an eminence and commanding an extensive view of the coun- 
 try for twenty or thirty miles round, with the waters surround- 
 ing Rhode Island and the bay and town of Providence. Then 
 went to Job Scott's former abode to see his children, but not 
 finding them at home, called at Daniel Anthony's, where we 
 found his four daughters, Lydia, Ruth, Sarah, and Mary — in- 
 teresting young women. Took tea with them, and spent an 
 hour or two with dear old Daniel, now in his eightieth year, 
 but lively in his faculties and concern for the cause of Truth. 
 
 29th. Attended Providence meeting, under much weakness 
 and poverty of spirit. At length I stood up, with these 
 words : " How hard it is to the natural man to become a 
 fool;" yet, "if any man will become wise, let him first be- 
 come a fool, that he may be wise ;" from which was enlarged 
 in opening the two kinds of wisdom, heavenly and earthly, 
 and how they were attained ; and that man, by his na- 
 tural powers and earthly wisdom, could not come to the 
 knowledo;e of God. Yet in David's charge to his son, this 
 knowledge was the essential and primary part, and what fol- 
 lowed, corresponding with Solomon's conclusion of the whole 
 matter, comprehended the sum and substance of true re- 
 ligion, and the consequent happiness of those who chose this 
 good part, &c. Divine help was aiforded, and I believe some 
 minds were opened to receive the truth, as well as an im- 
 pressive reiterated caution, to beware of the mixture of 
 earthly wisdom in our pursuit after the knowledge of Truth. 
 
 Avis Keene, from Leicester, attended the afternoon meet- 
 ing, on her way to New Bedford quarterly meeting. After 
 she had appeared in testimony, I addressed those halting 
 between two opinions, but who had been enlightened by the 
 revelation of the Son of God, and cautioned against reason- 
 ing or consulting with flesh and blood, encouraging them to 
 give up to the heavenly vision ; reminding them that it is "he 
 that confesseth" (not that professeth) "Jesus Christ before 
 men, him will he confess before his Father and the holy 
 angels." May it fasten as a nail in a sure place. A. Keene 
 appeared again, and the meeting closed. Took tea at Oba- 
 
276 JOURNAL OF JOHX COMLY. [1818. 
 
 diah Brown's, in company Avith Thomas Arnold and Lis 
 daughter Anna, precious Friends. 
 
 30th. This morning a little light seemed to open my way 
 toward Lower Smithfield, and I proposed a meeting there for 
 the afternoon ; but objections being raised on account of the 
 time being so short, it was put by, and a meeting appointed at 
 Pawtucket, a manufacturing village five miles toward Boston, 
 to be in the evening. I submitted to this in the cross, as part 
 of Lower Smithfield Friends lived in this village. So, ac- 
 companied by Obadiah Brown and wife, we rode out in his 
 carriage, and passed the afternoon at Timothy Green's, in 
 said village. It was to me a lonesome, exercising season, but 
 labouring after patience I was supported ; and in the evening 
 we had a large meeting in a Baptist meeting-house, wherein 
 Divine Wisdom helped to declare the Truth to a very attentive 
 assembly, and I hope some minds were livingly edified. At 
 Pawtucket are a number of cotton factories and a casting fur- 
 nace — a thriving village in the business of this world, for it is 
 a busy place. 
 
 Twelfth month 1st. — Left Providence, accompanied by 
 Charles Hadwin, a very kind, obliging young man, lately 
 received among Friends, and whose mind is tenderly scru- 
 pulous of using the produce of West Lidia slavery. Attended 
 a meeting appointed at Upper Smithfield, and laboured there- 
 in on subjects of doctrine and practice, to the relief of my 
 mind. Lodged at the house of my kind friends Walter and 
 Mary Allen, who next day took me in their carriage to Ux- 
 bridge meeting, in which I had some close, searching labour 
 with a spii'it of worldly-mindedness, tending to stir up to in- 
 dustry and labour in the vineyard of the heart. Among some 
 of the professors here, I fear the talent is too much wrapped 
 in a napkin and buried in the earth. 
 
 Dined at Moses Farnum's. He was gone as companion to 
 Avis Keene in her journey to New Bedford. His wife gave 
 us a very instructive and affecting account of the peaceful 
 close of their daughter Ruth, a few weeks since. She was a 
 hopeful child, but died of consumption at the age of eighteen, 
 in a full evidence of peace with God. 
 
 In the evening, had a meeting at Mendon, (north house,) 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 277 
 
 where Moses Aldrich formerly lived. He was a worthy 
 minister, and is mentioned in Thomas Chalkley's journal on 
 a visit to Barbadoes. His granddaughter, not in membership 
 with Friends, now resides in his former dwelling, at which we 
 were kindly entertained ; and had a satisfactory meeting at the 
 old meeting-house, in which Mary Allen had an acceptable 
 testimony after I sat down. Only about eight or ten mem- 
 bers belong here. Lodged at Wait Davenport's, a valuable 
 friend — a widow, and one of the granddaughters of Moses 
 Aldrich. 
 
 3d. Attended Northbrldge week-day meeting, and after some 
 close labour with a spirit of covetousness and a state of earth- 
 ly-mindedness, prevailing even to that degree as to occasion 
 some to be as stumbling-blocks, had a word of encouragement 
 to some tenderly visited minds, particularly among the youth, 
 with whom my spirit was led into near sympathy and travail 
 for their growth and establishment in the Truth. Some of 
 these were renewedly watered, and it was a season not soon 
 to be forgotten. To the great Husbandman be the praise, 
 and may he hold them in his holy hand for ever. 
 
 In the afternoon, had a precious meeting at South Mendon, 
 in which the gospel was preached in the openings of life and 
 power. After meeting my mind was brought into much de- 
 pression, which caused close searching of heart ; but no cause 
 was found in any thing past, and therefore patience seemed 
 the covert or hiding-place needful, which was renewedly dis- 
 pensed. 
 
 Lodged again at my dear friend Walter Allen's, and next 
 day he and his wife accompanied me to Burrilville, where we 
 had a memorable meeting. My mind was opened in testi- 
 mony toward those who are wandering as sheep without a 
 Shepherd, and these were renewedly directed to the Light 
 within. Here parted with my kind and truly sympathizing 
 friends, Walter and Mary Allen ; and in the afternoon had a 
 meeting at Douglass to satisfaction and the relief of my mind. 
 This meeting is small, and wants elders and fathers in the 
 Truth. Rode three miles in the evening, and lodged at 
 Richard Morey's. 
 
 5th. We were accompanied by Shadrach Stear to Thomas 
 
278 JOUKNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 Brown's at Northbridge ; and tlien the latter was our pilot 
 through Westborough and Grafton to Bolton, Avhere we put 
 up at James Fry's. Bolton meeting began about seventy 
 years ago, with one Friend. It is now composed of about 
 thirty families of plain, good-looking Friends. A school of 
 Friends' children only, amounting to forty or fifty, is kept 
 here in good order by Thomas Fry. First-day being very 
 stormy, and no notice being spread, the meeting was small ; 
 nevertheless it was a good one, and the sincere-hearted were 
 encouraged as well as stirred up to the necessity of watchful- 
 ness, and the frequent renewing of the mind, so as to know a 
 walking or advancement in the Truth. 
 
 Bode, this afternoon, nine miles to Boylston, and lodged at 
 John Lees, a friend from England engaged here in a cotton 
 factory. In this part of Massachusetts the controversy on 
 the notion of the Trinity is producing much division among 
 the people, tending to overthrow the power of the Clergy — 
 for the meetings of the Congregationalists separating, the 
 support or salary fails ; so that in many places they disagree 
 so as to have no settled minister, and thus their meetings are 
 discontinued. 
 
 7th. Passed through a tract of fertile land, and the plea- 
 sant town of Worcester to Leicester, and had a meeting there 
 in the afternoon. About one hundred members here, three- 
 fourths of whom are under twenty years of age, and some im- 
 proving young people among them. In the evening had a 
 tendering opportunity with a large circle of these at Pliny 
 Earle's. 
 
 8th. Called to see Bobert Earle, an aged Friend, apparently 
 near his close, and then set out for Smithfield. Called at 
 V/orcester where Anthony Chase and Milton Earle reside, 
 tAVO young Friends who I hope will be a blessing to that town 
 as they keep in the simplicity of the Truth. Bode to Walter 
 Allen's, thirty-two miles, and lodged there. Dear Mary is a 
 valuable minister and faithful labourer in this part of the vine- 
 yard. I felt the help and sympathy of her spirit, and was 
 encouraged thereby, as also the near unity of her husband. 
 Ah ! how strengthening to an exercised mind is the unity of 
 the Spirit in the fellowship of the gospel. Moses, no doubt, 
 
CuAr. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 279 
 
 ■was sensible of this when even his "hands were heavy," and 
 Aaron and Ilur stayed them up. 
 
 9th. Accompanied by John Osborne, son-in-hxw to Walter 
 Allen, attended LoAver Smithfield week-day meeting, which 
 was small. After meeting, I proposed an evening meeting at 
 the same place, but the aged friends rather discouraged it for 
 want of time to spread notice ; alleging that Friends lived re- 
 mote and were much scattered. I told them my concern was 
 particularly for the neighbourhood, those that were not mem- 
 bers, and thought with a little exertion these might be in- 
 formed. A torpid spirit seemed prevalent, and I was almost 
 ready to leave the prospect, as there seemed so little openness 
 in those who stood as the heads of the meeting; but a younger 
 Friend spoke encouragingly, and at length it was concluded 
 to have a meeting at six o'clock in the evening. I then went 
 three miles to Pawtucket to dine at Abraham Wilkinson's, son 
 of Oziel Wilkinson, the near and intimate friend of Job Scott. 
 This Friend has lately been received a member, having been 
 disowned for out-going in marriage. 
 
 He has a large family, and I hope his example will be use- 
 ful ; but ah ! how much precious time and opportunity for 
 usefulness has been lost in mills, factories, and speculations, 
 while his children were young. Now he seems alone in his 
 own family — for his wife and children, though social and kind, 
 are in gay life — do not use the plain language, and have many 
 things about them that must be trying to a tender father, but 
 he appears to be prudent. I went with him to see the won- 
 derful mechanical operations of a cotton factory moved by 
 water — seventeen hundred spindles, and twenty looms for 
 weaving, all by water-power — showing the ingenuity of the 
 natural powers of the human mind in natural things, or " the 
 things of a man ;" though these are altogether inadequate to 
 comprehend the things of God, for they are only to be known 
 by the manifestation of the Spirit of God. 
 
 The evening meeting was very large, said to be largest 
 meeting ever held in that place, and was favoured with the 
 overshadowing of heavenly Love. It held long ; after which 
 we rode to Providence, and found a precious packet of letters 
 from my home. The Friends who had so many doubts about 
 
280 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 the meeting, when proposed, were convinced that their hesi- 
 tations were unfounded ; and I hope it will be a profitable 
 lesson to them and others. 
 
 10th. Accompanied by 0. Brown, attended Cumberland 
 week-day meeting, consisting of about thirty members. It 
 was a season of favour, in which the nature of the happiness 
 designed for man was opened, and the false pursuits after 
 animal gratifications shown to be beneath the dignified nature 
 of an immortal spirit. In the afternoon, had a large meeting 
 at a Confrreffational meeting-house at Cumberland Hill. After 
 my testimony was closed, M. Allen appeared acceptably, and 
 we had cause to be thankful for Divine help. Rode to Caleb 
 Pain's and lodged. 
 
 11th. Had a meeting at Foxborough among a number of newly 
 convinced members, which was a season to be remembered. 
 Many tender inquiring minds are in this part of New England; 
 upward of twenty have become members of this meeting within 
 two years past, and appear hopeful. I recommended their 
 keeping in the state of "a little child" as the state of safety, 
 and in which they would know an establishment in the Truth, 
 cautioning them against disputations and meddling with 
 matters too high for them. Oh! what harm is done, and 
 what darkness and confusion is spread over the mind by in- 
 dulging the spirit of disputation and vain arguing about the 
 Trinity, Baptism, &c,, while the essentials of "doing the will 
 of the heavenly Father and following Christ in meekness and 
 lowliness of heart are neglected." 
 
 In the evening, had a meeting in the house of Sewell Hod- 
 ges, twenty-five miles south of Boston. At this was Tyler 
 Petty, a young man just released from imprisonment for a 
 military fine incurred before he became a member with 
 Friends. He appears to have suffered with Christian firm- 
 ness and patience. His prosecutors have been much mortified 
 at their own conduct, for it is now very unpopular in those 
 parts to do any thing like persecuting the Quakers ; and hence 
 Friends are exempted from all military duties and fines, by 
 producing at a certain time in the year to the military offi- 
 cer a certificate of the right of membership. After keeping 
 this young man in prison four or five weeks, the military 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 281 
 
 company paid the costs and discharged him. His -wife also 
 is a member, and they appear to be an interesting young 
 couple. 
 
 After long silence in this meeting, way opened to explain 
 the nature and important use of true mental silence and silent 
 worship, also to treat of the practice of singing ; and to show 
 that as it was an animal or artificial acquirement, so it could 
 only affect the animal nature, but could never raise the soul 
 into a state of worshipping in spirit and in truth. Much 
 other important doctrine was opened in this meeting, and it 
 was a baptizing season. After meeting, I was told a person 
 was present who had been an attender of Friends' meetings, 
 but had got discouraged and left them because they were often 
 silent, and gone among others ; but he acknowledged to the 
 truth of what he had heard in this meeting, and I hope was 
 instructed. 
 
 In these towns many are employed in braiding straw for 
 bonnets for the southern markets. It is believed from thirty 
 to forty or fifty thousand dollars' worth of this straw plait is 
 annually manufactured in three or four towns here ; and in 
 almost every house we find the children and young women 
 more or less employed at it. A young woman can braid 
 fifteen or twenty yards in a day, at three cents a yard. It 
 is said an acre of rye has been sold for forty or fifty dollars 
 for this business. It is cut while green, and bleached Avith 
 sulphur, then split with a machine; the rest is easy work, and 
 the business assists in procui'ing a livelihood in this poor stony 
 part of the country. Not much grain is raised about here. 
 
 Twelfth month 12th. — A slight snow fell last evening about 
 Sharon, and this morning we (0. Bro^vn and myself) set out 
 for Providence, twenty-four miles; the weather cold, and 
 much more snow toward Providence. I called at the place 
 where Job Scott formerly lived, and spent the afternoon with 
 his children and their grandfather Daniel Anthony, and his 
 daughter Remember. Perused Job Scott's original manu- 
 script journal, and a number of very interesting and instruc- 
 tive letters written by him; was much edified thereby, and 
 felt much interest in his dear children. Their names, Lydia, 
 Sarah, Mary, James, and Kuth. His eldest son Oziel died 
 
282 JOURNAL OF JOIL\ COMLY. [1818. 
 
 ■whe^i about fourteen years old, and since the decease of his 
 father. Much of the writings of Job Scott remains unpub- 
 lished. His essay on the Divinity of Jesus Christ. Another 
 on the subject of Universal Salvation, wherein that doctrine 
 is refuted, and various other interesting subjects interspersed 
 through his Journal. I suggested the propriety of having 
 these all copied out and preserved, till way may open in the 
 minds of Friends to have more of them made public for the 
 benefit of mankind, together with his Letters. 
 
 Returned in the evening to 0. Brown's, and lodged. 
 
 13th. Set out with 0. B., and attended Cranston meeting, 
 which was small. I had some close labour on the subject of 
 worship. Life and energy seemed wanting among them. 
 Dined at Silvester Weekes's. His wife Lydia, deceased, was 
 a lively minister, and travelled through the Southern States. 
 Oh! for more Deborahs among them. 
 
 In the evening, had a meeting at a village called the 
 Fulling-mill ; after which, I was an exercised hearer of much 
 conversation among some Friends about banking business and 
 cotton factories, in which I plainly perceived and felt that 
 the spirit of speculation is a spirit of covetousness. More 
 than twenty cotton factories are within six miles of this place, 
 and some of them have cost forty, fifty, and eighty thousand 
 dollars. Rhode Island State abounds Avith these cotton 
 factories and banks. Of the latter there is said to be thirty- 
 eight in the State, and only thirty-four townships. Friends 
 are sorrowfully involved in them, and manifest much anxiety 
 of mind about them. I queried with them, whether covetous- 
 ness was not the leading principle in the banking business? 
 But they have spun a specious covering, and endeavour to 
 plead for the use and propriety of them. Alas ! how dimness 
 is overspreading the minds of many, and the love of money 
 and a making haste to be rich leading many into snares and 
 into many foolish and hurtful lusts. My spirit mourns for 
 the members of our Society thus captivated, who should have 
 stood faithful as lights in the world, ncnv mingling with the 
 people and learning their works, and following their corrupt 
 customs. This may be seen in the houses and among the 
 children of the speculating wealthy members of our religious 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGL.\ND. 283 
 
 society ; and no marvel that Truth spreads so little among 
 others, when so many causes of stumbling abound. It seems 
 sometimes as though it was in vain to travel about preaching 
 the gospel, and holding up its blessed effects to others, when 
 the professors of Truth, by their conduct and example, are 
 holding up to view a different effect. Oh! when will Zion 
 arise and shake herself from the dust of the earth ! 
 
 Lodged at Caleb Green's — his wife a tender-spirited woman 
 — not members among Friends. Next morning had a parting 
 opportunity with them to satisfaction, and went to Greenwich 
 meeting. It was small compared with what might have been 
 expected in so large a village. But the life and energy of 
 Truth seems chilled among Friends, and hence they appear to 
 feel but little interest in inviting their neighbours. At this 
 meeting was Christopher Greene, now an aged man, brother 
 to Nathaniel Greene, a military officer in the American Revo- 
 lution. Christopher appears thoughtful, and he followed us to 
 an evening meeting at Wickford. ~ May his latter days be his 
 best days. 
 
 The evening meeting at Wickford was pretty large and 
 very quiet. The snow increases the farther we go southward. 
 Lodged at Avis and Ann Smith's, and next morning set out 
 with Charles Hadwin for South Kingston. I had mentioned 
 yesterday a desire to have a meeting there to-day, but no one 
 was found to go forward and give notice, so cold and so little 
 interested do some Friends appear to be, in assisting to for- 
 ward the labours, and in relieving the exercises of the tried 
 traveller. We went on, inquiring the way, twelve or fourteen 
 miles, over very rough roads and through the snow, my mind 
 much tried, but laboured for patience. Arrived at John 
 Dockray's about two o'clock, and sent C. H. to give notice of 
 our being at the week-day meeting at the western house in 
 South Kingston next day. Lodged here. 
 
 16th. Snowed this morning, and we went five miles to the 
 meeting. No fire made — all cold without and within. How- 
 ever, a fire was at length kindled, and a few people met — per- 
 haps ten or twelve besides those who went with us ; and not- 
 withstanding all the discouragements I had been under, it 
 proved a good meeting to me, and I believe to some otlicrs. 
 
284 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 Dined at William Peckham's, who married Dorcas Gardner, 
 of Nantucket. Their house richly furnished. Took tea at 
 John Dockray's ; his wife Mercy, a precious Friend, daughter 
 of William Peckham, and sister to Alice Rathbone, of Smith- 
 field. 
 
 Lodged again at J. Dockray's, and next day attended the 
 week-day meeting at Tower Hill. It was larger than the one 
 yesterday, though the weather was piercing cold, and a 
 favoured meeting. After dinner had a sitting among a large 
 circle of Friends and young people at John Dockray's to 
 satisfaction, and then went to a village called Little Rest, to 
 lodge at John Nichols's. 
 
 At this village is the court-house for Washington county, 
 and a bank. The situation is elevated and pleasant, and the 
 country around may be seen to a considerable distance, and 
 not much hilly. This county was called King's county prior 
 to the American Revolution, but such was then the antipa- 
 thy of the people to the king of England and to the title of 
 king, that they revolutionized even the name of this county, 
 and changed it to Washington. 
 
 Several Friends in travelling have held meetings in this 
 village, but courts and banks, when people's minds become 
 filled with them, allow very little room for religious impres- 
 sions to take root, so as to produce the fruits of the Spirit. 
 
 18th. Attended a meeting appointed at Richmond. It was 
 small, the weather being still very cold, and I apprehended 
 very little notice had been spread. Several Friends accom- 
 panied me from South Kingston, and a person not in member- 
 ship, who rode near ten miles to the meeting. Returned to 
 Little Rest to dine at John Nichols's, who kindly furnished 
 us with his sleigh ; and parting with Friends there, C. Had- 
 win and myself rode in the afternoon by Wickford to William 
 Reynolds's, and lodged there. 
 
 William Reynolds has lately joined Friends, and promises 
 fair to become a useful, active member in Society, and such 
 are needed here. He informed us that his farm had remained 
 in the family from the first settlement of the country, and 
 related the tragical events of the Indian war in these parts — 
 the son of one of his predecessors having been shot by the 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 285 
 
 Indians, and was buried where his house now stands, about 
 the year 1690. 
 
 19th. Accompanied by William Reynolds and wife rode to 
 Coventry, to attend a meeting there, the notice of which was 
 left in charge with S. W., of Cranston, on parting with him 
 at Wickford. When we came to the village and factories of 
 Coventry, we saw Nicholas Congdon, of Cranston, who had 
 come to attend the meeting, but finding no notice had been 
 spread, he was about to return home. It appeared that S. 
 W. had spoken of it at the close of Cranston week-day meet- 
 ing, but as Cranston is six or seven miles from Coventry, no 
 information had reached Friends of the latter place. S. W. 
 had expressed a sentiment at Wickford showing his reluctance 
 to giving his neighbours information when Friends travelling 
 in the ministry appointed meetings, alleging as a reason that 
 they very seldom attended when they were invited : and yet 
 S. W. stands high in Society, occupies the first seat, and 
 sometimes has something to communicate in meetings. He is 
 at the same time president of Cranston bank, and an active 
 member of civil society. 
 
 Feeling, notwithstanding this disappointment, a willingness 
 to see the Friends and inhabitants of this village, a meeting 
 was proposed at two o'clock in the afternoon, and information 
 was immediately spread. It was a meeting, though not 
 large, held to a good degree of satisfaction and relief to my 
 mind. Went home with N. Congdon and wife, and lodged 
 there. 
 
 At Coventry are only a few Friends, employed in or about 
 the factories. Daniel Anthony, Jr., at whose house we dined 
 and were kindly entertained, being one of the principal 
 Friends there; and Greenwich monthly meeting having 
 granted them a meeting on first-days only, I queried why 
 not also a week-day meeting, endeavouring to hold up the im- 
 portance of this testimony — but was informed by D. Anthony 
 that they did the best they could at present, being under the 
 control of others. And I was satisfied that a precious seed is 
 in this place. But "by whom shall Jacob arise, for he is 
 small?" The help of Society to the little seed, is, I fear, 
 greatly obstructed by the spirit of speculation and Avorldly- 
 
286 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 mindedness gaining the ascendency in the minds of those who 
 assunle the station (and may have once been called to be) as 
 leaders to the people. 
 
 20th. Was at Scituate meeting. About a dozen Friends 
 from Providence met me there ; among the rest, 0. Brown 
 and wife and niece, and three of Job Scott's children, with 
 Thomas Arnold, and divers other young men. It was a meet- 
 ing of favour, in which utterance was given to declare Truth's 
 testimony among a mixed company, a large number of whom 
 were of other societies. Dined at Elisha Bowen's. Parting 
 with Friends in near affection, Thomas Arnold took me in his 
 chaise, and we travelled about nine miles that evening to 
 Beriah CoUins's at Foster, where I lodged when through this 
 land in 1815. 
 
 Were kindly received and hospitably entertained, and next 
 day had a meeting at Foster, to which many not of our 
 society came. The meeting closed with a solemnity that was 
 comfortable, and many minds partook of it, I hope to profit. 
 May they hold fast what they have attained, and with myself 
 ascribe all glory, honour, and power to Him that sitteth on 
 the throne, and to the Lamb for ever. Rode in the afternoon to 
 Rowland Greene's at Plainfield, in Connecticut, and though my 
 mind now felt easy to return home, yet Friends here proposing 
 a meeting and showing much readiness to open the way, and 
 also cutting out further service in some neighbouring towns 
 in Connecticut, I was willing to weigh the proposal, and seek 
 after the mind of Truth therein, under which I went to bed ; 
 and as I endeavoured to have my own will subject, at length 
 my mind settled in the preceding prospect of returning 
 homeward. 
 
 22d. Rose early, and rode with my kind friend Thomas 
 Arnold through Windham to Hartford, forty-one miles this 
 day ; my mind calm and quiet. Arrived at Hartford about 
 dark, and put up at the hotel or stage-house. After supper, 
 called at John I. Wells's, and spent the evening with Thomas 
 and Mary Ilowell and several others of the deaf and dumb, 
 being near the Asylum. There are now about forty-five of 
 this description of pupils, who are encouragingly progressing 
 in learning to understand written langua2;e. 
 
Chap. IX.] TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND. 287 
 
 After returning to our lodgings, found Thomas Rotcli, of 
 Philadelphia, and Thomas Arnold, of New Bedford, on their 
 way to Philadelphia by stage, and were mutually rejoiced to 
 meet. Concluded to go on in company, as my way seemed 
 now clear to proceed homeward. 
 
 23d. Parting with Thomas Arnold, we set out early in the 
 post-chaise, and arrived in the afternoon at New Haven, about 
 thirty-six miles. 
 
 One of the passengers in the stage, Edward Baker, an Eng- 
 lishman, now residing in Philadelphia, informed me he once 
 had a right of membership with Friends, but was disowned for 
 his outgoing in marriage, while in England. The conduct of 
 the active members in society toward him he alleges as the 
 cause of his mind's becoming so alienated from Friends that 
 lie does not go to their meetings, though he says it is impossi- 
 ble for a person who has once been acquainted with silent 
 ■waiting to unite with those who are active in singing, &c. in 
 other assemblies. In viewing the state of this man, and con- 
 versing with him, I could perceive his mind was not at rest. 
 How often do those disowned by Friends endeavour to cloak 
 their own failings or excuse their own remissness by finding 
 fault with the treatment they have received. Even admitting 
 that unskilful or unqualified Friends have been deficient 
 of having their minds clothed with the restoring spirit of 
 meekness and love, yet as long as any root of hardness 
 or bitterness remains, the soul cannot grow in the love of 
 Truth. 
 
 The evening being cold and windy, we went on board the 
 packet to sail for New York early in the morning. Lodged 
 on board, and about seven o'clock in the morning, being the 
 24th, with a brisk gale sailed for New York. When about 
 half way, a vessel was observed at some distance lying on one 
 side, and the crew in distress. It was very cold, and the poor 
 creatures must have suffered much. Our packet was put 
 about in order to relieve them, but being heavy laden, the 
 captain apprehended it unsafe to venture into shoal water. 
 The sea was now very rough, but speaking another sloop that 
 was much lighter laden, she went to the assistance of the 
 wrecked packet, and got the passengers and crew all safely 
 
288 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1818. 
 
 off, and "\ye came on our course after being detained an hour 
 or two. 
 
 Here I renewedly saw that when people are in trouble or in 
 danger they cry or pray unto the Lord, and often resolve to 
 amend tlieir ways, as it is said: "They pour out a prayer 
 when thy chastening is upon them ;" but when they are de- 
 livered from their fears or distress, how soon they forget their 
 vows and turn aside after their own ways. 
 
 Arrived safely at New York in the evening, thankful for 
 our preservation, and lodged at my kind friend S. Hicks's. 
 His partner in business, Sylvanus Jenkins, lay a corpse, 
 having had a short but severe illness, which terminated his 
 course in a few days, and in the prime of life, leaving a widow 
 and several small children. His death was much lamented by 
 his friends and acquaintances, and particularly so by S. Hicks 
 and wife. 
 
 25th. Receiving accounts from home, and that the meeting 
 for sufferings had adjourned to this day week, I took stage 
 with my friends James Arnold and Thomas Rotch and rode 
 on to Princeton, having taken a heavy cold yesterday. Lodged 
 at an inn. 
 
 26th. Set out early and rode to Trenton to breakfast. Here 
 I left the stage, and was taken by Richard Burdsall to Samuel 
 Comfort's, at the Falls. Felt revived on meeting again with 
 my dear friends, and thankful in being thus brought back in 
 safety and peace. S. Comfort took me on to Joseph Wilson's, 
 at Middletown, and Joseph brought me on to Bybcrry, my 
 native place. Found my dear parents, wife, and family well, 
 and my heart rejoiced in humble gratitude to Him who had 
 led me forth, watched over me, and preserved me through 
 many trials and deeply baptizing seasons, and now had again 
 permitted me to return in peace to my dear family and friends. 
 Blessed be his holy name for ever. 
 
 In this journey I was from home nearly three months, tra- 
 velled by land and water about one thousand eight hundred 
 and fifty miles, and was at as many meetings as I was days 
 from home, besides a large number of family sittings. And 
 through all I have cause to be reverently thankful, and 
 humbly hope I feel so, to the Great Shepherd of Israel for his 
 
Chap. X.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 289 
 
 care and preservation, and for his abundant favours conferred 
 on me. May I dedicate the remainder of my days unre- 
 servedly to his service. 
 
 Subsequently to the performance of this exercising journey, 
 no memorandums are left of his engagements in the cause of 
 Truth for several years, but there is every reason to believe 
 that a faithful discharge of duties, domestic, social, and reli- 
 gious, continued to be the objects of his industrious attention ; 
 ■whilst, doubtless, when privileged to abide at Jiome within the 
 bosom of his family and circle of friends, his affectionate 
 heart yielded the tribute of gratitude for a favour highly 
 prized. 
 
 In the years 1821 and 1822, as one of a committee ap- 
 pointed by the Yearly Meeting, he travelled considerably in 
 attending its constituent branches ; but it does not appear that 
 he again obtained a minute from his monthly meeting until in 
 first month 1824 he was furnished with one for visiting the 
 meetings of Concord, Cain, and Western quarters. And again 
 in 1826 a minute was granted him for attending and appoint- 
 ing meetings in various places, principally within the limits 
 of our own Yearly Meeting, which was returned to the monthly 
 meeting in the ninth month 1827. 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 Having opened a concern in our monthly meeting in first 
 month, 1824, to make a religious visit to the inhabitants west 
 of the river Schuylkill, in Chester county, and obtaining a 
 certificate of its unity, on the eighth day of second month I 
 set out, accompanied by my friend James Walton. Lodged 
 that night at S. T.'s, at Plymouth, where in the evening we 
 had the company of Jacob Ritter, who gave us an interesting 
 narrative of his convincement and call to the ministry, and 
 19 
 
290 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1824. 
 
 joining with Friends. Next day travelled on to Downings- 
 town. Lodged at Jesse Kersey's. 
 
 lOth and llth. Attended Cain quarterly meetings. Some 
 share of religious labour was allotted me among them, in which 
 I found peace. The next day had a meeting at West Cain — 
 small and poor. The day following another at East Sads- 
 bury, at which was a Presbyterian minister, who invited me 
 to his house. He had married a young woman who was 
 formerly a pupil in our boarding-school, and she wished to 
 see me. 
 
 14th. We were at Lampeter first-day meeting, and in the 
 evening had a meeting at Columbia, to which William Gibbons 
 kindly accompanied us. On second-day returned to Lampeter, 
 and had a large crowded meeting in the evening for the in- 
 habitants generally. Had a meeting next day at a school- 
 house in West Sadsbury, and were at Sadsbury fourth-day 
 meeting, which was large. Attended the week-day meeting 
 at Fallowfield the next day, at which was J. H. from Muncy. 
 He invited us to accompany him to a meeting he had appointed 
 at Doe Run on sixth-day ; so we went, but found it best to 
 mind our own concern, and not join nets with others in fishing 
 for the gathering of minds to God. That afternoon attended 
 a meeting we had procured to be appointed at a private house, 
 near a little town called Cochran ville. It was a large gather- 
 ing, and among the rest the Presbyterian minister before men- 
 tioned attended. After I got through with my communica- 
 tion, in which I thought Divine Life attended, he stood up 
 and very fully united with the doctrines and exhortations I 
 had delivered, adding of his own ; after which he stood and 
 prayed, the people generally rising, except Friends. In his 
 address he prayed for the success of my labours, and appeared 
 in full unity with the objects of my concern. When meeting 
 ended he seemed very friendly, and invited me again to his 
 house. I found the meeting was composed of many of his 
 hearers ; and after I got into our dearborn Avith the two elders 
 that accompanied me, I told them it was time for them to ful- 
 fil their duty in taking care of me, for if I had got to preach- 
 ing Presbyterian doctrines, as would seem by the unity of the 
 minister, perhaps I had better go home. They assured me 
 
Chap. X.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 291 
 
 my doctrine was sound according to Truth and Friends' prin- 
 ciples, and wished me not to be discouraged. The next day 
 we called to see his wife, who was in delicate health, and she 
 appeared very glad of the visit. She was an amiable, affec- 
 tionate child when she resided in my family, and this call 
 seemed to revive the feelings of mutual friendship. We then 
 pursued our course homeward as far at M. Melone's, where 
 J. W. left me and returned home on account of a swelling and 
 increasing pain in his ancle. 
 
 On first-day morning, the 21st, I went to the boarding- 
 school at West-town and attended meeting there, making a 
 little visit to my daughter, who was one of the pupils. In the 
 afternoon had a meeting at a school-house about a mile east- 
 ward, and next day one at an unfinished house built by the 
 Baptists, which might be called a favoured opportunity. 
 
 On third-day had a meeting at Goshen, and next day at 
 Westchester in the morning, and an afternoon meeting near 
 Brandywine. Fifth-day was at Birmingham meeting, and in 
 the afternoon had an appointed one at a school-house south- 
 eastward ; and the day following were at an appointed meet- 
 ing at Kennett. 
 
 On seventh-day had a meeting at Marlborough, and the 
 next day attended a large meeting at Bradford in the morn- 
 ing, and an appointed one among the hills a few miles north- 
 westward in the afternoon, which I consider was a favoured 
 meeting. 
 
 Perhaps to a mind that is a stranger to such a concern for 
 the welfare of mankind, or a stranger to the persons thus in- 
 terested in travelling about, such a detail of the places and 
 times of having meetings may be dry and uninteresting. 
 There are other minds who may take a different view of the 
 narrative of these labours ; and as we are all capable of using 
 our mental powers for the purposes of consideration and re- 
 flection, there may be instruction in such a description of the 
 manner of spending time with no other object in view than 
 the benefit of the human family. 
 
 On second-day, the 29th, had a meeting at East Cain, and 
 next day one at Downingstown. After this Philip Price, who 
 had been acceptably my companion since I was at the board- 
 
292 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1824. 
 
 ing-scliool, returned home, and J, Meredith accompanied me 
 that afternoon to a meeting among the hills, near a place 
 called King of Prussia. On fourth-day I was at East White- 
 land meeting, and next day at Uwchlan monthly meeting, a 
 large and favoured opportunity, though some remarks were 
 close upon formalist professors. Had another meeting ap- 
 pointed in the evening for the inhabitants generally, particu- 
 larly the labouring class of useful citizens, who, being much in 
 others' employ, think they cannot spare time to go to meeting 
 in the day-time. 
 
 After dining at a Friend's house near, a stranger who was 
 there asked me to walk out with him. He then opened his 
 situation, and the state of his neighbourhood, about fifteen 
 miles distant, in relation to his and their religious professions ; 
 and proposed, if I could feel the way clear, that I would have 
 a meeting among them — no Friends' meeting having been 
 held there. It met a corresponding impression I had felt 
 respecting some unknown place in that direction, and I soon 
 felt prepared to encourage the proposal. On consulting with 
 Friends, it was agreed to ; and S. L,, the person alluded to, 
 set out home to make the arrangements for a meeting the 
 next day, and spread notice. The evening meeting at Uwch- 
 lan was largely attended, and, for aught that appeared, was 
 satisfactory. 
 
 Next morning we set out for Honey Brook, near where the 
 meeting was held at a school-house in the afternoon. The 
 people had filled the house before we arrived ; but seats being 
 left for two or three, we with difficulty reached them — great 
 numbers of people being out doors. They appeared unac- 
 quainted with the manner of silent waiting, but the meeting 
 was held to pretty good satisfaction. 
 
 Next day we returned over a very rough road to Nantmel, 
 where we had a meeting, not large, nor quite satisfactory to 
 me, by reason of a circumstance that occurred with an elder 
 and another person, in which I thought neither the dignity 
 nor tenderness of the ofiice was manifested. Self was active 
 and therein a zeal that wanted tempering with heaven-born 
 charity. We went thence to Kimberton, and next day, being 
 first-day, sixth of third month, I attended Pikeland meeting. 
 
Chap. X.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 293 
 
 On second-day, had a meeting at the h-on works in a village 
 called Phenixville. Third day, a meeting at Charleston ; and 
 thence, feeling the pressure of a concern to see the elder above 
 alluded to, we returned across the country, and reached his 
 house in the evening. After the rest of the family except his 
 wife had retired, I had a full and free opportunity of reliev- 
 ing my mind, and of laying some things very close home to 
 his case and feelings. Truth gave me boldness, yet tempered 
 with proper respect for his years and station, and plain deal- 
 ing was exercised in laying righteousness to the line. 
 
 Next morning early we left with peaceful minds, and were 
 at East Whiteland week-day meeting ; also had a full crowded 
 meeting at the Valley in the afternoon. Here J. Walton again 
 joined me, and on fifth-day we were at Radnor monthly 
 meeting ; and had a meeting at a large school-house in the 
 evening, at a place called the Gulf. Next day had a public 
 meeting for the neighbourhood at Radnor meeting-house in 
 the morning, and another large meeting at Newtown in the 
 afternoon. Some close doctrine and remarks delivered here 
 — whether to individual or general profit, is not for me to 
 determine. 
 
 On first-day, the 13th, attended Willistown meeting — very 
 large. Was led to speak on these words : "Awake, thou that 
 sleepest, arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee 
 light." Had a meeting at Middletown in the afternoon. 
 Next day, one at Providence in the morning, and another at 
 Springfield in the afternoon. Third-day, was at Haver ford ; 
 fourth-day morning at Merion, and a meeting in the afternoon 
 at Heston's Mill, near the Lancaster tm-npike road. On 
 fifth-day was at Darby meeting ; and went thence to Phila- 
 delphia, and met the committee on Indian concerns in the 
 afternoon. Next day attended the meetings for sufiierings, 
 and reached my home in the evening. 
 
 Thus in about forty days nearly fifty meetings were 
 attended, and some of them large and very interesting. I 
 know not that the industry and diligence with which the con- 
 cern was prosecuted had any injurious efi"ect on any one. My 
 health was preserved, and we travelled in much simplicity ; a 
 small dearborn wa^on with a linen cover served to shelter us 
 
294 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [182G. 
 
 from the storms, and appeared to be satisfactory to those 
 among whom we were entertained, especially some aged 
 Friends, who remembered the days of greater plainness and 
 more simple habits than the present. Perhaps it may be an 
 object worthy the attention of ministering Friends so to 
 appear and so to demean themselves, when out on such em- 
 bassies especially, that nothing about their accommodations 
 or appearance may have a tendency to stumble, oflFend, or 
 close the minds of any against them or their labours. 
 
 The thirtieth of fifth month, 1826, our monthly meeting 
 issued a Minute, in accordance with a prospect I had opened, 
 of appointing some meetings in several places, chiefly within 
 the limits of our Yearly Meeting, as way might open. To 
 define the boundaries or extent of the prospect was difficult, 
 as it might be only a few places here and there, but scattered 
 in difi"erent directions. Friends appeared fully satisfied to 
 leave me at liberty to attend to the guidance of best Wisdom 
 therein. 
 
 On the eleventh of sixth month following, accompanied by 
 one of my neighbours, I went over the river to attend Crop- 
 well meeting, where I was an entire stranger both to the 
 place and people; but by inquiry we found the way, and 
 called before meeting at the house of J. Rogers. Were 
 kindly received, and after resting a while, as the weather was 
 very warm, went to meeting, in which, though not large, I 
 had an open time of communication in the love of the gospel, 
 and felt peace in the discharge of this duty. My mind had 
 for some months past been drawn toward a neighbourhood 
 which I supposed not far from Cropwell, and I had hoped the 
 way might open for an afternoon meeting there. But getting 
 a little out of our way in the morning prevented our seeing a 
 Friend near the place alluded to, who might have made such 
 an arrangement for us. It was therefore necessarily post- 
 poned for the present, and we returned home that evening. 
 
 18th. Attended Middletown meeting in the morning. On 
 my way thither, called to see whether a meeting could be had 
 
Chap.X.] journal of JOHN COMLT. 295 
 
 in the afternoon at W. P.'s, in Northampton. Found an open 
 door therefor ; so after dining, accompanied by several 
 Friends of Middletown meeting, Avent to said appointed 
 meeting, which was largely attended, and a comfortable 
 season among a class of people who do not often go to the 
 meetings of Friends, although many of them are descendants 
 of Friends, and have some attachment to the Society. But 
 habits of idleness, in relation to going to meetings, have 
 long had too much dominion over many among them. To 
 appoint meetings among such people may be a means of 
 stirring up the pure mind in them, and excite their attention 
 to other more important objects than eating, drinking, amuse- 
 ments, wealth, &c. After taking tea with my friends P. Pax- 
 son and wife, I returned home with a peaceful mind. May 
 gracious Heaven prosper the work of Truth and peace in the 
 minds of the people, and draw them more and more into a 
 state of inquiry what they shall do to be saved. 
 
 On the twenty-fourth of same month, accompanied by my 
 dear friend William Wharton, went to the boarding-school at 
 West-town, to see my children there, and with some expecta- 
 tion of having a meeting on first-day afternoon, at a school- 
 house about a mile eastward, which I had long had in view ; 
 but Philip Price the superintendent not being at home till 
 late in the evening, no arrangement could be made till next 
 morning, when Jesse Haines and John Parker came in, and 
 informed that they had appointed a meeting at said school- 
 house, and invited me to join in attending it. I said nothing 
 about my prospect, but went on to attend West Chester meet- 
 ing, accompanied by William Wharton and Benjamin Ferris. 
 This was a good open meeting, and some interesting matter 
 communicated on the subject of the "unspeakable gift" of 
 Divine light and grace. At the close of the meeting, a 
 female elder undertook to find some fault with my omitting 
 part of a text, which had no allusion to the subject treated 
 on, but which she apprehended ought to have been recited. 
 Her countenance bespoke anxiety and uneasiness, but my 
 mind felt calm and peaceful. Returned by way of the board- 
 ing-school, but no way opened to attend J. H.'s school-house 
 meeting. I have seldom found that such partnership under- 
 
296 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1826. 
 
 takings are satisfactory to myself, there being danger of 
 sitting or standing in the way of others. Called at James 
 Emlen's, and came on to Darby that evening; thence home 
 next day. 
 
 On the second of seventh month, had a meeting at a school- 
 house in the verge of Wrightstown, called Concord school- 
 house; the weather was very warm and the people much 
 crowded, but it was a good meeting, highly favoured, and 
 much tenderness felt. May the praise be ascribed where 
 alone it is due. A large number of hopeful, plain young 
 people attended, many of them descendants of Friends, but 
 living four or five miles from a meeting, and no way to go 
 but on foot, seldom get there. Gladly they accept an oppor- 
 tunity of having a meeting among them, and I regret that the 
 low state of Society precludes the care of Friends in appoint- 
 ing meetings, to be held monthly or oftener in such neighbour- 
 hoods as this. No doubt a blessing and a gathering would 
 attend such a concern. 
 
 16th. Accompanied by one of my friends, attended a meet- 
 ing appointed at a school-house at ten o'clock a.m., near 
 Milestown on the York road, which appeared to be a satis- 
 factory opportunity to a respectable company assembled. 
 Much quietness and order were witnessed, and a freedom of 
 communication was felt to flow toward them under the opera- 
 tion of Divine love. Dined at Hannah Speakman's, and 
 returned home in the evening with the blessing of peace. 
 
 Eighth month 13th. — Way opening for a visit to Chester 
 county, I had a meeting at the place called Jones's school- 
 house, about a mile east of the boarding-school. Several 
 Friends were present, besides the inhabitants of the neighbour- 
 hood. At this school-house a meeting was held a few years 
 ago, on first-days, after the manner of Friends, often, if not 
 mostly in silence. It is situated about equidistant from 
 Concord, Westchester, Goshen, and Willistown. A goodly 
 kind of people reside here, though a little more religious 
 concern and less love of the world would be of great advantage 
 to them. My mind was clothed with calmness and love, and 
 peace attended this act of dedication. To me it was a satis- 
 factory season, and more so than it might have been had I 
 
Chap. X.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 297 
 
 attempted to discharge the duty in company with J. II. and 
 J. P. as before noted. Divine wisdom is profitable to direct. 
 
 In the afternoon, had a meeting at the old Baptist meeting- 
 house on the Westchester road, which was seasonable and 
 satisfactory. Lodged at my kind friends Eli and Lydia 
 Thomas's, and next day attended select quarterly meeting at 
 Goshen. Margaret Judge and Susanna Jewett were there, 
 and it was an interesting season. Part of the labour fell to 
 my lot, in illustration of the subject of "washing one another's 
 feet," showing the substance of that figure to be the great 
 care that ministers and elders should exercise to preserve 
 their standing and movements (the feet) clean and blameless 
 amongst men, so that their usefulness and services be not 
 hindered or obstructed ; that much depended on the tender care 
 of one another's characters as well as actions ; and that where 
 true love abounded, the mantle of charity would be spread over 
 one another, and a willingness would be felt to admonish in 
 love, and watch over one another for good, to help forward 
 in the work of the ministry for the edification of the body. 
 After meeting, Philip Price came to me, and in a feeling 
 manner expressed his unity with my exercise, which was en- 
 couragement to me, he being an elder whom I much esteemed. 
 This afternoon I expected to have had a meeting at a place 
 called Sugartown. But the messenger finding several of the 
 villagers sick, and one of my dear friends rather discouraging 
 it, I put it ofi", though my mind had often been turned toward 
 this neighbourhood, since I was on a visit through these parts 
 a few years ago, and was then prevented from attending to 
 it by a friend whose kindness was well meant, though illy 
 timed. In such cases, patience is necessary, and now I was 
 made willing again to leave it. Lodged at Jefirey Smedley's, 
 and next day attended the quarterly meeting at Goshen, and 
 the day following a meeting at Darby, appointed for Margaret 
 Judge and sister, which was satisfactory and ended well ; then 
 returned home with peace. 
 
 27th. The concern still pressing on me, I attended Abing- 
 ton first-day meeting, and in the afternoon had a very large 
 meeting at a new house unfinished, belonging to a person not 
 a professor among Friends. It was an open, interesting 
 
298 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1826. 
 
 season. Counsel and doctrine flo"n-ed freely to an attentive 
 audience, among -whom were a number of various religious 
 denominations. This meeting was in a neighbourhood where 
 probably a Friends' meeting has not lately, if ever, been held, 
 and a hope was felt that some benefit might result from call- 
 ing the people together. Our host was very kind and friendly, 
 and expressed his satisfaction with the opportunity, and the 
 entire freedom with which he had accommodated the meeting. 
 
 30th. I felt inclined to sit with Friends at their quarterly 
 meeting of ministers and elders at the Falls, and had some 
 service among them, resulting in the peace of my own mind. 
 
 Ninth month 3d. — Having often felt a draft of love toward 
 a neighbourhood about "Point no Point," below Frankford, 
 one of my friends went on to have an afternoon meeting ap- 
 pointed at a school-house there, but found it was likely to be 
 occupied with a Methodist meeting at that time. So we 
 attended Frankford meeting in the morning, and had a re- 
 freshino; season with Friends there. Dined at Yeamens 
 Gillingham's, and returned home in much quietude. 
 
 In the tenth month following, accompanied by my friend 
 J. Walton, attended Horsham meeting in the morning, and 
 had a meetinfj three or four miles north-westward in the after- 
 noon. It w^as held in a wheelwright's shop, and although a 
 very rainy afternoon, a considerable collection of people 
 assembled, and were very quiet and attentive. Among them 
 was a cripple very much deformed, who was carried there, 
 being utterly unable to walk; the poor object seemed deeply 
 interested and attentive, and his friends appeared very kind 
 to him. If no other object was gained than affording him an 
 opportunity of being at a Friends' meeting, it was a satisfaction 
 to us, and peace rewarded this little act of obedience to an 
 impression of duty toward my fellow-creatures. 
 
 About the beginning of the twelfth month, I again went 
 over the river, and had a meeting appointed at a school-house 
 near the Green Tree tavern, being the same place that I had 
 in view when I attended Cropwcll meeting six months ago, 
 and the way now opening, with the care and assistance of my 
 friend Josiah Roberts, we had a satisfactory meeting there at 
 the eleventh horn- in the morning. Several serious-looking 
 
Chap. X.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 299 
 
 coloured people also attended. Dined at H. H.'s, though lie 
 did not give us his company at meeting ; which was only about 
 a half mile from his house — yet he showed no countenance 
 thereto. Time was when I apprehend he would have acted 
 very differently, for we have long felt much like brothers. 
 He treated us kindly, but appeared less free and social than 
 formerly. Ah ! how brotherly kindness is withering in 
 some! 
 
 Twelfth month 23d. — Set out accompanied by C. P. on a 
 journey to Chester county, and reached J, P.'s on seventh-day 
 evening. Were kindly entertained during the night; though 
 he being a court judge, the evening's conversation was not 
 very congenial to my inclinations, for I have long thought 
 Friends had very little to do with courts of law and worldly 
 politics. Reached Concord meeting next day, which was 
 small. 
 
 27th. Attended Sadsbury meeting. Notice having been 
 spread, it was a large and favoured opportunity. Ground 
 covered with snow and growing very cold, Avent on to S. L.'s, 
 where we stayed the night. Next day attended Cambridge 
 meeting in a new meeting-house, and it was a comfortable 
 season. 
 
 29th. Had a meeting appointed at a village called Paradise, 
 on the turnpike road. It was very small, some omission had 
 occurred in giving information. At first we were a little dis- 
 couraged, but it proved to be a very good meeting to some of 
 the few present, and resulted in peace and serenity. Went 
 to my uncle Isaac Smith's to lodge, and next day had a large 
 meeting at Bart, and a very interesting one. Much openness 
 appeared both in speaking and hearing, and the meeting 
 ended well. 
 
 31st. Attended Fallowfield meeting to satisfaction, though 
 felt some regret in observing the departure from that plain- 
 ness and simplicity which were apparent at this meeting 
 twenty-five years ago. Now many of their young people 
 appear like what are called the people of the world. Lodged 
 at Daniel Lukens's, and part of our company enjoyed them- 
 selves in free converse. Allusion being made to existing dif- 
 ferences in the society, I found it safest for me to be much 
 
300 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1827. 
 
 silent on the subjects of controversy, and my mind enjoyed a 
 peaceful calm. Oh ! that all strife and contention might cease 
 and be subdued by the power of Love Divine. 
 
 First month 1st, 1827. — Had a meeting appointed at Doe 
 Run ; called to see my afflicted uncle Jonathan Hampton, and 
 dined with him. The meeting was a favoured one. Weather 
 very cold. 
 
 2d. Had a meeting at West Grove — very large, with short 
 notice, and a good meeting. Accepted an invitation to dine 
 with dear old William Jackson and wife, who were very kind, 
 and expressed approbation of my labours that day. Oh ! how 
 I desired that the dear old man might be permitted to close 
 his days in peace, and be spared from participating in party 
 feelings and strifes. But I had no conversation with him on 
 controversial subjects or the state of society at this time. 
 
 3d. Attended London Grove monthly meeting, which was 
 large, but not very lively. I had a particular testimony to 
 bear among them, that appeared to touch some and arouse 
 them considerably. May its service be answered for good. 
 Felt peace in the labours of this day. Lodged at William 
 Bailey's, who had just returned from a visit to Ohio, and gave 
 some interesting account of his travels there. 
 
 4th. Set out toward Westchester, and on the way overtook 
 Friends going to their monthly meeting there ; but feeling no 
 commission to stop with them, went on to Eli Thomas's ; 
 found them gone to Goshen week-day meeting. After taking 
 some refreshment, followed on, and found E. T. and wife at 
 Abraham Hibbard's ; opened to them my concern to have an 
 evening meeting at Sugartown, which was cordially united 
 with, and measures were immediately taken to spread infor- 
 mation. After a religious opportunity with A. H.'s sick 
 daughter, went on to cousin Hannah Waterman's to tea, and 
 then to the meeting, held in a large school-house, but it would 
 not hold the abundance of people collected so soon together. 
 However, they were very quiet and attentive, though Truth 
 did not rise so high as at some other times. It was, on the 
 whole, a satisfactory opportunity, and I was glad the long- 
 standing debt was discharged to the best of my ability. 
 Lodged at Caleb Maris's, and next day reached home, glad 
 
Chap. X.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 301 
 
 again to be embosomed in my family in quietness and peace. 
 In retrospect of tbis little jom-ney, I have much cause for hum- 
 ble gratitude for Divine preservation and support, and that 
 he has furnished me with ability for the work and service 
 assigned me. To Him be the glory and praise of his own 
 works ascribed, now and ever. 
 
 The spirit of controversy and contest, (to which some allu- 
 sion has been made,) which for some years had been assailing 
 and making inroads upon the quiet and harmony of our highly 
 professing society, and the difficulties, disorders, and painful 
 circumstances in which it was becoming increasingly involved, 
 were occasions of deep-felt exercise and travail to the sensi- 
 tive concerned mind of our dear parent. And while his 
 unobtrusive, pacific spirit naturally shrunk from taking 
 any part in the contest, we fully believe he was commis- 
 sioned by the Head of the Church, and qualified for the 
 arduous duties assigned him. And that, by a careful atten- 
 tion to the openings of light and the dictates of unerring 
 Wisdom, he was eminently useful as an instrument to aid 
 in gathering the tossed, tried, and scattering members of 
 our once favoured society into a more calm and tranquil 
 state. 
 
 The trials and tribulations of his exercised spirit in refer- 
 ence to the part he felt called upon to act during this eventful 
 period, and his subsequent labours in connection with others 
 for the restoration of quiet and settlement amongst his breth- 
 ren in various parts, can only be justly portrayed by his own 
 pen. And however desirable it might be to pass over in 
 silence the painful scenes and transactions, antecedent to, and 
 in many instances attending the separation of the conflicting 
 parties into two distinct societies, and that even the remem- 
 brance thereof might be obliterated, yet it seems not possible 
 to exclude the subject from these pages, whilst endeavouring 
 to give a faithful transcript of our devoted father's religious 
 labours for the cause of Truth, and the promotion of peace on 
 earth and good-will to all men. 
 
 As explanatory of the origin of the difficulties and disorders 
 
302 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 here alluded to, before entering upon the recital of his own 
 exercises and labours as connected therewith, he has intro- 
 troduced a short sketch of the state of society, and of the 
 causes which ultimately led to a separation of the divided 
 members into two bodies. 
 
 CHAPTER XI. 
 
 To a mind possessed of the sensibility of Christian feeling, 
 in whom heaven-born charity dwells, and who is thereby taught 
 to "feel another's woe," it cannot be a gratification to record 
 the weaknesses and imperfections, the frailties and wander- 
 ings, of its fellow-probationers. Yet, in the course of the ex- 
 ercise of the duties of Christian sympathy, how often do we 
 find the declaration of the poet verified: "Man's inhumanity 
 to man makes countless thousands mourn." That this should 
 be the case where the natural animal passions remain unsub- 
 jectcd to the government of Divine love and light, is not to be 
 marvelled at ; for that which the Apostle James described as 
 the origin of wars and fightings, has always been the root of 
 the corrupt tree in man, the fruit of which spreads distress 
 and mourning among the human family. But that this should 
 appear, and discover the unmortified lusts in those who emi- 
 nently profess the doctrine of the cross and self-denial, is mat- 
 ter of astonishment to such as have not entered deeply into 
 the knowledge of man placed under circumstances wherein his 
 interest and his character among men predominate over the 
 principle of brotherly love. To the inexperienced, a vail of 
 mystery appears thrown over the conduct of those who move 
 in a higher sphere of action than themselves ; and with the 
 habit of a reverent esteem for the character of the aged, who 
 are regarded as benefactors of society, we shrink from the at- 
 tempt to investigate what we do not understand, in the move- 
 ments and sentiments of those whom we have looked up to in 
 high stations as the leaders and rulers of the people. 
 
 A day, however, has dawned, and an era occurred in the 
 
Chap. XL] JOUKNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 303 
 
 annals of our religious society, when the trammels of fear and 
 the shackles of prejudice arc about to be broken and cast off, 
 and when the minds of serious inquirers will rise with the re- 
 ne wings of light, to search into and investigate subjects for 
 themselves ; to examine principles and motives, and judge of 
 actions and conduct according to the standard of Divine Truth, 
 and not according to stations in society, or the acquired influ- 
 ence of wealth, or assumption of superiority and power. It 
 will yet become more clearly evident that "he that will be 
 great shall be as the younger, and he that will be chief as he 
 that serveth;" that if any will become "wise, let him first be- 
 come a fool, that he may be wise." 
 
 To men of this character, evidence has been furnished, for a 
 series of years, of the progress of a spirit marked by its fruits, 
 which has gradually insinuated itself among those who fill " the 
 highest seats in the synagogues," and who, by almost imper- 
 ceptible degrees, have not only gained the pre-eminence, but 
 at length claimed it as their prerogative. In proportion as 
 this spirit has borne rule, the righteous, the meek and lowly, 
 have been oppressed, have been made sad, and have mourned. 
 But their meekness, and patience, and tears have been re- 
 garded in heaven, though on earth they had no comforter, and 
 "on the side of their oppressors there was power." Many 
 cases of this character, unknown to the world, have occurred, 
 and not a few in our highly professing society. Jealousy, or 
 the "image of jealousy," has been observed "in the entry," and 
 has marked the progress of Diotrephes and his partizans, till 
 the truth of Solomon's assertion has been obvious to many who 
 have felt and seen its force, — "jealousy is cruel as the grave." 
 In its train of attendants, as its proper offspring, are seen 
 whisperings, backbitings, evil surmisings, envyings, strifes, de- 
 bates, censoriousness, calumnies, slanders, and "waves on 
 waves, which cast up mire and dirt." 
 
 About the year 1820, this spirit or image of jealousy, that 
 provoketh to jealousy, developed itself in New England, and 
 measures were taken to bear down all before it by adopting a 
 system of disownment or excommunication of members obnox- 
 ious to its influence. This was effected by a stretch of 
 arbitrary power in opposition to the exercise of the mild, 
 
304 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 gentle, forbearing spirit of the Christian discipline by which the 
 peaceable Society of Friends had been wont to be governed. 
 Under the administration of this new system, about thirty 
 members are reported to have been disowned at Lynn and Sa- 
 lem in New England. Divers of these were worthy, sincere- 
 hearted Friends, who, till the rage of this intolerant spirit ap- 
 peared, were active, useful, and exemplary in the Society. But 
 when it was decreed by a selected committee of the quarterly 
 meeting, that the clerk and such members as united with the 
 views of that committee, should be considered the monthly 
 meeting, and all others disregarded, it became easy for this 
 self-created tribunal to arraign, accuse, judge, condemn, and 
 disown whoever had the confidence to oppose their views and 
 proceedings. Hence, if in the days of Solomon " oppression 
 made a wise man mad," how much more, such as were not very 
 wise, nor of very strong nerve, nor of deep religious experience. 
 Such was the fact, that many were driven off by these harsh 
 and summary proceedings till they ran out into some extrava- 
 gances ; others, disgusted with such usurpation and pharisai- 
 cal expulsion from a society, whose principles and genuine doc- 
 trines and discipline had been held dear by them, retired alone, 
 and in a sad, disconsolate solitude, secluded themselves from 
 the society of those who opposed them without a cause. 
 
 It was but a few years after these scenes were transacted in New 
 England, that the same spirit openly manifested itself within 
 our borders, especially in the city of Philadelphia, where, having 
 gained the power and ascendency, it marked out its victims, 
 and appeared to be seeking the means to crush or silence such 
 as were obnoxious to its aspiring views, and who would not bow 
 to "the image which it had set up." In this state they were 
 advised by one of the most active of the New England pro- 
 scribers, to disown fifteen or twenty of those most active in 
 opposing them, and that the rest would submit and be quiet. 
 But a diSiculty was first to be surmounted before a system of 
 disownment could with any plausible pretext be attained. At 
 this period divers of the officers in meetings were moderate, 
 conscientious men and women, who, Avith a body of active, 
 solid, influential Friends, stood opposed to the operation of such 
 an arbitrary stretch of ecclesiastical power. The periodical 
 
Chap. XI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 305 
 
 appointment of these officers, sanctioned by the usage and dis- 
 cipline of society, furnished opportunities, which -were im- 
 proved with much party zeal, for gradually preparing an ap- 
 paratus for putting in execution the advice and plan proposed. 
 Thus, at length, clerks, overseers, and other officers were se- 
 lected who received instructions how to exert their energies 
 against such as opposed the usurpation of power and pre-emi- 
 nence, and desired to live in peace and harmony. 
 
 Of the five monthly meetings in the city, embracing per- 
 haps about thirty-five hundred membei's, one had rendered 
 itself obnoxious to the censure of the other four by receiving 
 a family visit from Elias Hicks, (who was travelling on reli- 
 gious concern, with a minute of the unity of his friends at 
 home,) and giving him a certificate of their approbation and 
 unity with his ministry and labours of love. This was made 
 one of the ostensible causes of the interference of the quar- 
 terly meeting, which was thus introduced into a spirit of action 
 and reaction, of crimination and recrimination, in which four 
 monthly meetings, or rather the ruling members thereof, stre- 
 nuously strove to gain an absolute dominion over the one, 
 which in its turn vigorously opposed the encroachment and 
 usurpation of dictatorial authority over their religious rights 
 and privileges. 
 
 Thus their meetings for discipline exhibited scenes of disor- 
 der and confusion, and continued to assume the attitude of 
 greater hostilities. Personal reflections and unbecoming aspe- 
 rities were cast on characters who once stood fair and unim- 
 peachable, and that "decency, forbearance, and love of each 
 other," so strongly recommended by Discipline, was supplanted 
 by dispositions, feelings, and conduct of a character directly 
 the reverse. Many tender-spirited Friends, disgusted, alarmed, 
 and grieved, absented themselves from these scenes of conten- 
 tion and strife. Others, who still attended, went in painful 
 prospect of sufi"ering, and endured the agony of conflicting 
 feelings through the protracted sittings of these meetings. 
 
 The meetings for worship also were subject to the excite- 
 ment of mournful and disagreeable feelings. The solemnity 
 of silent adoration was often disturbed by denunciations from 
 the gallery against infidelity and other imagined absurdities. 
 
 20 
 
30G JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1826. 
 
 Doctrines, till now unheard in meetings of Friends, were reite- 
 rated and enforced with threatenings on those who should 
 dare to reject them. Thus dismay and confusion increased ; 
 the youth and little children went to meetings with reluctance ; 
 young men and women absented themselves ; some Friends 
 openly talked of resigning their rights in such a society ; and 
 many were exceedingly tried on account of their families and 
 children. Many sober inquirers and friendly people who had 
 flocked to Friends' meetings, now declined and left their attend- 
 ance. Thus the public meetings diminished in numbers, and 
 the comfort and edification once found in attending them was 
 little to be felt or enjoyed by the sincere seeker after Truth. 
 "The ways of Zion mourned," and the "travellers walked in 
 by-ways." 
 
 This distressing state of things was painfully felt, during 
 the autumn and winter of 1826, by those who were situated 
 immediately within the precincts of the city. A long struggle 
 had been maintained against the usurpations of power ; and to 
 more distant and dispassionate observers, it was evident this 
 scene'could not long endure. The feelings of Christian love ap- 
 peared to be withering, and the spirit of warfare was evidently 
 gaining strenth. The range of party animosity was extending 
 among family connections, and friends, and acquaintances, 
 and threatening in its progress to involve the society in a 
 state of disorder, of enmity, and strife, that would be a disgrace 
 to the Christian name. 
 
 The subject of the state of Friends in Philadelphia became 
 a theme of serious concern to exercised minds far and near, 
 and the approaching Yearly Meeting of fourth month, 1827, 
 was anticipated as a period in which that large body of 
 Friends might and would interfere to correct the abuses, and 
 interpose its authority to check the progress of these evils, 
 and settle the differences existing in that quarterly meeting. 
 Many Friends also of unbiassed judgment had anxiously 
 hoped that something might be done by way of mediation, to 
 allay the heat of party zeal, and revive the feelings of brotherly 
 love and condescension amongst their conflicting brethren. 
 
 Having thus viewed the awful state of Friends in the city, 
 and having seen the spreading of the same spirit in various 
 
Chap. XI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 307 
 
 pai-ts of our Yearly Meeting, my mind had shared with others 
 in deep exercise on account of these things, and became im- 
 pressed with a religious concern to make a visit to the city, 
 in order to mingle with Friends, and to see and feel whether 
 any opening might present for active labour, in endeavouring 
 to promote a reconciliation between the two contending 
 parties. In accordance with this view and impression, I 
 attended the quarterly meeting of ministers and elders held 
 there in second month, 1827, in which I had a full view of the 
 nature of that spirit that was seeking to bear rule in the 
 society. I beheld also the confusion of languages among 
 them, so that they could not understand one another's speech. 
 As I sat silently observing the operations of the meeting, my 
 heart melted in a feeling of brotherly compassion and pity 
 toward Fx'iends of both parties, and strong desires were raised 
 in me that there might be a restoration of peace and harmony 
 among them. But when I saw the determination to criminate 
 an individual, against whom violent prejudices appeared to 
 exist, there seemed but little hope, unless a state of silent 
 suffering could be attained, instead of a disposition to vindi- 
 cate, and explain, and defend, which to me appeared only to 
 blow up the coals of contention and strife. 
 
 Such a select meeting I had never before attended. Pain- 
 ful indeed the spectacle ! But I learned something of the 
 reality of what before I had only heard "by the hearing of the 
 ear." The meeting not being able to get through its busi- 
 ness, till near four o'clock in the afternoon, occasioned a long 
 sitting, trying to the patience, but more so to the gentle feel- 
 ings of Christian meekness and love. 
 
 Although this painful meeting afforded little prospect of a 
 reconciliation, my mind was turned toward seeking for an 
 opening to converse with some of the active ones, in order to 
 see and feel whether any door of hope remained for healing 
 the awful breach. But some of them having long appeared 
 to regard me with an eye of suspicious jealousy, affortled no 
 opportunity for such interview. Cold, distant, inhospitable, 
 they passed by and left me to myself. But I learned much " 
 by this day's observation. 
 
 The next day, being first-day, I attended Pine street meet- 
 
308 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 ing. Silence appeared proper for me, and a state of child- 
 like docility. But my heart was warmed with love to my 
 fellow-creatures, and tender compassion joined with Christian 
 sympathy flowed toward them. At the close of the meeting, 
 I had an invitation to dine with a once warm friend, which I 
 willingly accepted, and was kindly entertained, though the 
 feelings of open, undisguised friendship appeared to he some- 
 what obstructed. After dinner, an interesting conversation 
 ensued among the children, and our spirits were softened 
 together under the melting influence of Divine love. Parted 
 with them under this precious covering, and believed the 
 opportunity tended to remove some prejudices, at least for 
 the time, and to revive those feelings of friendship which once 
 subsisted between us. 
 
 Attended Twelfth street meeting in the afternoon. Silent. 
 After meeting, I endeavoured to put myself in the way to 
 obtain an invitation to tea, with a formerly kind and attentive 
 friend, but in this I was disappointed. And as I felt a deli- 
 cacy of intruding myself, I reluctantly forbore to call on him. 
 The other members of his class all passed off in like manner. 
 So that I found little hope remaining of an open door into 
 their hearts for a reconciliation, when so little appeared even 
 on the score of hospitality and common civility. 
 
 Spent the evening in company with several Friends, whose 
 conversation on the mournful state of things amongst them 
 engrossed my attention, and my spirit entered deeply into 
 their afilicted, tried condition. Indeed, I had travailed in deep 
 exercise and sympathy with the seed of life since I came to 
 the city, and hitherto had been seeking and hoping to find a 
 door of entrance for a mediation and healing of the breach. 
 I had inquired of Friends whether any hope remained with 
 them that peace might be restored, but they saw no way for 
 it. And now, under the views that had a little opened in my 
 mind, I imparted to Friends a way of escape for them, if a 
 s^'-stem* of disownment should be adopted by the ruling party, 
 now nearly ready to use the Discipline for making a separation. 
 
 On second-day attended the general quarterly meeting, and 
 was a silent observer of much confusion and disorder. In the 
 altercations that ensued on several subjects brought before 
 
Chap. XI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 309 
 
 the meeting, I saw the spirit of strife and contention rise 
 higher and higher, and that both parties were wasting their 
 strength for naught, and dissipating the feelings of brotherly 
 kindness in endeavours on the one hand to carry through 
 certain measures, and on the other to oppose and prevent it. 
 "Contention and personal reflection" were not kept out of 
 this meeting. Friends were interrupted while speaking; 
 harsh epithets were applied to some ; and irritation and 
 warmth manifested the unfitness of the meeting to transact 
 its business. 
 
 During the course of their debatings, strife, and tumult, ray 
 mind was occupied in a tender feeling for both parties. I 
 saw the awful state of warfare and confusion in which they 
 were involved. I beheld their nakedness, being stripped of 
 the clothing of Christian meekness, forbearance, and brotherly 
 kindness. I mourned their exposure to a host of those feel- 
 ings and dispositions which torment the minds of contending 
 parties, where anger, malice, revenge, hatred, variance, emu- 
 lation, strife, and tumult, pervert the understanding, and root 
 out every Christian feeling. 
 
 Under these impressions and awful views of the lamentable 
 state of disorder into which the society was plunged, my mind 
 was opened to see more clearly that this contest would result 
 in a separation of the two conflicting parts of society, as the 
 only means of saving the whole from a total wreck ; and the 
 way and manner of this separation was clearly unfolded to 
 my mental vision ; that on the part of Friends it must be 
 effected in the peaceable spirit of the non-resisting Lamb — 
 first, by ceasing from the spirit of contention and strife, and 
 then uniting together in the support of the order and disci- 
 pline of the Society of Friends, separate and apart from 
 those who had introduced the difiicuities, and who claimed to 
 be the orthodox* part of society. 
 
 A duty now presented to labour with Friends to be still 
 and quiet, and let the others go on with their schemes and 
 
 * The term "orthodox," when hereafter applied to those who are here 
 alluded to, is intended merely as a term of distinction, and not as granting 
 any peculiar soundness of faith. 
 
310 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 operations unmolested ; that there was no use in thus spend- 
 ing their strength; and that a way of safety was about to 
 open, by withdrawing from these scenes of contention and 
 disorder. In pursuing this duty, and spreading the views 
 that were given me of a quiet, peaceable retreat from this 
 unavailing contest, the only means of effecting it appeared to 
 be, that Friends in the city cease from all contention, and 
 then throw themselves into the arms of their country friends, 
 by requesting of some neighbouring monthly meeting, where 
 they were generally united, to acknowledge and receive them 
 into its bosom as members, without certificates, because it 
 was obvious they could not obtain them from their respect- 
 ive meetings, if applied for. And this departure from the 
 common usage of the Discipline would be all the change that 
 need be made in the order of society. The sympathy and 
 tender feeling of Friends in the country would doubtless 
 operate toward their suffering fugitive Friends in the city, and 
 they will risk all consequences under the consciousness of the 
 purity of their motives. From a monthly meeting which 
 should thus adopt the golden rule, the concern would spread to 
 a quarterly meeting, which would approve the measure ; and at 
 length other quarters would unite therein, till a Yearly Meet- 
 ing of Friends might come together in love, in harmony, and 
 peace. 
 
 Among the effects that may result from such a quiet, 
 peaceable retreat from the scenes of discord that now disgrace 
 the society, a prospective view was held up that the youth 
 would be gathered into a calm ; meetings would again be pre- 
 cious, instructive seasons ; a living gospel ministry would be 
 revived ; and many would be drawn to attend Friends' meet- 
 ings who have latterly absented themselves therefrom ; disci- 
 pline might again become a blessing to society, and the testi- 
 monies of Truth be again advanced and upheld. 
 
 The opening of these views to various Friends appeared to 
 be taken hold of, as a ray of hope, by many of their almost 
 disconsolate minds ; but, as with the Israelites in Egypt when 
 disheartened under oppression, some seemed unwilling to 
 hearken. My mind was clothed with peace in the discharge 
 of this duty ; and I felt that there was no time to lose in 
 
Chap. XL] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 311 
 
 labouring to prepare the minds of Friends in city and coun- 
 try for adopting the measure, lest the orthodox power should 
 begin to practise on their system of separation, and a dread- 
 ful scattering of the society would be the consequence. 
 
 Thus, though I went to the city without any clear prospect 
 of what service might fall to my lot, yet by carefully attend- 
 ing to the impressions and feelings presented, I clearly saw 
 the path of duty opened before me, by which the state of so- 
 ciety might be once more improved ; but that an arduous la- 
 bour was requisite, and a wide field to engage in before peace 
 and tranquillity could be restored. I beheld the contending 
 parties, like two men who had been so long engaged in com- 
 bat, that they appeared covered with blood, exhausting the 
 vital principle of life. To part them appeared a rational and 
 Christian duty, that each might be saved, and by a temporary 
 separation a state of calmness and quietude might be ex- 
 perienced, in which their wounds might be healed, and health, 
 soundness, and a right understanding be regained, so as to 
 become again prepared for the enjoyment of social order, 
 harmony, and peace. 
 
 To be active in the promotion of such a separation in the 
 society, I saw would expose myself to much censure from those 
 who could not understand the subject, or see it in the same 
 light which had thus been opened to my view. But confiding 
 in the Arm of Power that led Jacob and his household from 
 under the oppression of the Syrian, and brought him again 
 to Bethel in peace, and trusting in the protecting care and 
 direction of the Great I AM, that led the afilicted and op- 
 pressed from under the hard task-masters of Pharaoh by a 
 pillar of cloud and of fire, and through the Red Sea, my soul 
 was resigned to suffer ; and for the sake of the arising of 
 the seed of life, and that it might have room to grow in the 
 minds of thousands who were under oppression, I was made 
 willing to become a spectacle to angels and to men, in the 
 great cause of rescuing the society from that awful gulf 
 which awaited it. 
 
 Under these feelings and prospects I returned home, and 
 on collecting my family informed them of what I had wit- 
 nessed and felt while in the city, and that in fulfilling 
 
312 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 my duty toward society, in relation to its regaining a state 
 of peace and settlement, I should be likely to be much called 
 from home until this object "was accomplished ; but that 
 it AYas one of such magnitude, involving the comfort and hap- 
 piness of Friends, and the opening of a way for the promotion 
 of Truth and righteousness in the earth, that might have an 
 effect on generations to come, that I was willing to suffer pri- 
 vation and toil (if requisite) in the prosecution of this righteous 
 work. I was listened to with deep interest, and my precious 
 wife responded with feeling unity of heart to the views and 
 concern thus opened, although before leaving home, she had 
 tenderly cautioned me to be careful not to involve myself in 
 difficulty, by venturing among the conflicting and contending 
 parties, or taking any part in their disputes. This caution 
 had been attended to, and no active part had been taken in 
 the debates of the quarterly meeting. But even this silence 
 was suspected by the ruling party, as concealing something 
 under it obnoxious to their interests. 
 
 The next day, being seventh of second month, I attended 
 our select quarterly meeting at Abington. Dined in company 
 with several Friends from various parts of our quarter, to 
 whom I mentioned the subject of a separation as presented to 
 my view while in the city, and endeavoured to draw theii- 
 attention to the exercise of tender sympathy toward our suf- 
 fering friends there. The opening of the subject in its 
 various details excited deep interest in the minds of most 
 present ; though some appeared cautious, and the term sepa- 
 ration, however expedient, was not very grateful. 
 
 On fifth-day, at the general quarterly meeting, a proposal 
 respecting the periodical appointment of elders, &c., occa- 
 sioned a warm discussion, during which my mind was revolv- 
 ing greater things for the benefit of society, and therefore I 
 took no part nor interest in it, for I saw and knew that so- 
 ciety was not in a condition to unite in making new disci- 
 pline ; that however such a measure might afford relief in 
 some cases, it could only, under existing circumstances, in- 
 crease the strife and contention, if carried through the Yearly 
 Meeting. I beheld the conflict, and had a tender feeling for 
 
Chap. XL] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 313 
 
 Friends, but it appeared now too late to restore or save the 
 society by such means. 
 
 Second month 15th. — Attended Green street monthly meet- 
 ing in Philadelphia. Painful view presented of something of 
 the war spirit among them. Sounded a retreat, and to stand 
 still and see the salvation of God. In the afternoon had a con- 
 ference with divers Friends, on the important subject of with- 
 drawing from the confusion and conflict to which they are now 
 subject. 
 
 16th. Set out for Wilmington, accompanied by Joseph 
 Pierce and Edward Garrigues. Reached there toward evening. 
 The next day spent in visiting several valued friends, and way 
 opened for spreading my concern amongst them relative to the 
 state of society, with which much interest and unity were ma- 
 nifest. Attended their morning and afternoon meetings the 
 following day, both of which were favoured instructive seasons. 
 Then had a large evening meeting in a school-house at Bran- 
 dywine for the labourers, mechanics, &c., which was also tome 
 a good meeting, and I hope may not be lost. Lodged at Wil- 
 liam Poole's, and enjoyed a peaceful retrospection of the la- 
 bours of the day. 
 
 19th. My service at Wilmington appearing to be finished, 
 after breakfast we set out toward home. My companions en- 
 joyed social converse, but my mind sunk into deep exercise on 
 account of the mournful state of the contending powers in so- 
 ciety; and the concern to promote its emancipation resting 
 upon me with increased pressure, by the time we reached Dar- 
 by I felt almost sick. We were kindly received by the ever 
 hospitable and warm friends of genuine Christian feeling, John 
 and Rachel Hunt. Esther Elliott and Alice Wilson had just 
 finished a family visit to Friends of that neighbourhood, and 
 were about to return home, but at my request were induced to 
 tarry, to whom, in company with several of the elders and over- 
 seers of Darby meeting, I opened my concern in regard to the 
 state of society, showing the suffering state of our brethren and 
 sisters in the city, and the wasting and destruction that was 
 rapidly spreading through all classes of society by the indul- 
 gence of party feelings and animosities. Nearly the whole 
 company united with the exercise, and appeared rejoiced at 
 
314 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1827. 
 
 the opening of a prospect of quietness being restored. To me 
 it was cordial to find the minds of so many valuable Friends 
 prepared to harmonize in the concern, and I left them with 
 renewed feelings of that love and unity wliich become the fol- 
 lowers of Christ; and under a consciousness of having endea- 
 voured faithfully to discharge my duty, I returned home. 
 
 21st, Attended the funeral of a young man, who came to 
 an untimely end by intemperance. I sounded an alarm to 
 the company met at the house, on the necessity of faithful- 
 ness to our several duties one toward another, in order to 
 arrest the progress of this mighty destroyer. It was a so- 
 lemn time. Oh ! that the people were wise, that they under- 
 stood these awful admonitions ; that they would consider their 
 latter end. 
 
 22d. Attended Bucks quarterly meeting. Business con- 
 ducted as usual, until a proposal was read from one of the 
 monthly meetings in relation to a subject of Discipline, which 
 occasioned a warm contest, but after long discussion it was 
 concluded to forward it to the Yearly Meeting. Dined in 
 company with several Friends from different meetings ; thence 
 to Newtown to lodge, where I met with a large circle of 
 Friends, to whom I opened my concern for the restoration 
 of order, peace, and harmony, and my prospect of the time 
 being nearly come for Friends to make a quiet retreat from 
 the scenes of confusion and disorder which now agitate us. 
 My views were responded to and united with as being a de- 
 monstration of the peaceable, non-resisting spirit of the gospel, 
 and that the time calls loudly for our industry in preparing 
 the minds of Friends for the measure. It was an interesting 
 opportunity, and the concern is evidently gaining ground in 
 the minds of many Friends, affording encouragement and con- 
 solation to my exercised mind, and a hope that Truth is open- 
 ing a way for relief to many tribulated ones. 
 
 23d. Was at Middletown, where I had an affecting interview 
 with a large company of men and women Friends, to whom I 
 communicated my desire that our sympathy might be directed 
 toward our suffering friends in the city, and that we ma}^ unite 
 in our views of becoming distinct and separate as a society, 
 that peace and comfort may again bless our assemblies. The 
 
Cqap. XL] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 315 
 
 way and means for effecting this were pointed out according 
 to the openings upon my understanding ; and the sympathetic 
 tenderness and care of Friends toward myself, travelling in 
 this very momentous and important concern, were entreated, 
 under the feeling that in its laborious prosecution I stand ob- 
 noxious to the persecuting spirit of my opposers. It was a 
 season that cemented our hearts in mutual feelings of love and 
 fellowship in that which is pure ; and my tribulated soul re- 
 joiced in the evidence that this is a righteous concern, to pro- 
 mote the healing and binding up of the broken-hearted, and 
 the deliverance of many captivated minds. With a thankful 
 heart I returned home, where I found my dear friends John 
 Mott, Josiali Roberts, and William Wharton, and though it 
 was late in the evening we spent some time in mutually in- 
 teresting converse, uniting our hearts in gospel fellowship. 
 Here again was added a cheering evidence of the rectitude of 
 my concern to labour for the quietness of Friends, in finding 
 that tlue dedicated mind of our friend J. M. had been led while 
 in the city to recommend Friends to stillness and quietude, in 
 order that they might therein discover the mind of Truth in 
 all their movements. 
 
 27th. Our monthly meeting, which J. M. attended, to our 
 comfort. It was a good meeting, and we gave him a minute 
 of our unity with his gospel labours among us. In the after- 
 noon James Walton and myself set out to take him to the 
 Falls, &c. Next day attended meeting there, in which a short 
 communication seemed called for from me on the singular sub- 
 ject, "Remember Lot's wife." As I endeavoured simply to 
 follow the opening, I got through to the peace of my own mind, 
 and J. M. followed, with excellent doctrines in the clear open- 
 ings of Truth. The meeting was evidently a favoured one. 
 
 Third month 1st. — Attended a meeting at Trenton, where 
 J. Mott was again exercised in gospel love to labour for the 
 promotion of Truth and Righteousness After he had ap- 
 peared, Emmor Kimber rose and commenced with these Avords : 
 "How can a man be born when he is old, "which he illustrated 
 in a testimony that was felt by some present, and will not soon 
 be forgotten. He spoke acceptably, evincing that his eminent 
 
316 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 gift has not been lost by all the tossings and tempests he has 
 had to endure during ten years past. 
 
 2d. This morning J. M. set out homeward, and J. W, and 
 myself returned home. Found Emmor Kimber waiting for 
 us. Spent the afternoon chiefly in conference on the import- 
 ant subject which demands so much of my attention. This 
 dear friend seemed disposed to "walk about Zion," viewing it 
 on diiferent sides and in various bearings, but at length ap- 
 peared to take hold of the concern with his usual energy. 
 
 3d. Was at the burial of a neighbour, and bore testimony 
 among the people assembled, with peace to my own mind. 
 
 4th. Attended Abington meeting, and had some service. 
 Dined in company with Jacob Paxson, an aged Friend, whose 
 greenness appears to increase with his years. Had an oppor- 
 timity with a number of Friends of opening the nature, grounds, 
 and operation of the concern felt for the peace of society, 
 and that the only way of obtaining it appeared to be by a se- 
 paration of the contending parties into two distinct religious 
 bodies, that each may settle down in the quiet, and such as 
 are disposed may, by recurring to first principles, give evidence 
 that they are the friends of peace and love. As some of the 
 oppressed Friends of Philadelphia may apply to Abington 
 monthly meeting to be acknowledged as members without pro- 
 ducing certificates, it appeared important that Friends here 
 should have their minds prepared and their hearts open to do 
 unto all men as they would in similar circumstances be done 
 unto. A hope is felt that this day's labour in this righteous 
 cause was seasonable, and may be like John the Baptist in the 
 wilderness, crying, "Prepare ye," &c. 
 
 11th. Having felt a motion of love for some time to visit 
 Friends at Westfield, New Jersey, which now seemed ripen- 
 ing to fruit, I went over the river and attended their meeting 
 this morning, which was a favoured one. In the afternoon, 
 had a meeting at Page's school-house about two miles above 
 Moorestown, which was also favoured with the Divine pre- 
 sence. 
 
 18th. Was at Gwynedd meeting, where I met with my va- 
 lued friends, Abraham Lower and Gabriel Middleton. Had an 
 open favoured time in public testimony. In the afternoon, 
 
Chap. XI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 317 
 
 had a meeting at Montgomery Square, in a school-house. It 
 was very rainy, and the meeting was small but not discourag- 
 ing. Lodged at my kind friends, Nathan and Martha Clea- 
 ver's. Next morning called to see my worthy, honoured 
 friend, Hugh Foulke, and had much conversation Avith him on 
 the concern for the settlement and peace of the society, en- 
 deavouring to show him the reasonableness and propriety of 
 our withdrawing from our opposing brethren and " let them 
 alone ;" that the conflict must so result, and the sooner the 
 better, that we may not be spending our little strength for 
 naught. He appeared thoughtful and tender, but desirous of 
 remaining in the quiet, hoping some other way might open 
 for the relief of Friends. 
 
 After this, I stayed mostly at and about home, attending to 
 my business and domestic aftairs for a few weeks, my mind 
 seeming considerably relieved from the pressure of exercise 
 on account of society. A calm, quiet feeling attended the 
 retrospection of my past labours, in the settled belief that 
 the concern had its origrin in the revealings of Truth, and had 
 been pursued as way had opened in the clearness thereof. I 
 looked forward to a trying Yearly Meeting, but felt no anxious 
 care "for the morrow." 
 
 Fourth month 13th. — Attended the meeting for "Sufferings 
 in Philadelphia," at which was read a memorial concerning 
 Richard Jordan. It spread sadness and gloom over my mind 
 in the evidence it presented of having been prepared at this 
 time in order to serve a party purpose. Alas ! for that blind 
 zeal which neither regards the tender feelings of the living, 
 nor the character and estimation of the dead I Returned 
 home this evening. 
 
 14th. Went to the city to attend the Select Yearly Meet- 
 ing. The English Friends, G. and A. Jones and E. Robson 
 were there, and active. Philadelphia quarter brought for- 
 ward, in their answer respecting ministers, a kind of mournful 
 complaint against such as came amongst them holding forth 
 sentiments which they thought incorrect, and tending to lay 
 waste the fundamental doctrines of the Christian religion. 
 
318 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 To this the quarter had added, contrary to usual practice and 
 the order of society, that unsound ministry existed among 
 them. 
 
 This was enough to draw out the English Friends, who laid 
 hold of it with severity, and by unfair inferences applied it to 
 the whole Yearly Meeting, though the other ten answers con- 
 tained nothing different on the subject of ministry from what 
 had appeared in years past. At length, dear old William 
 Jackson, whom I had hoped would never attend another 
 Yearly Meeting because of the deceptive influences that have 
 blinded his mind, and filled it with prejudices in his old age, 
 greatly to his unhappiness and the destruction of his comfort 
 and peace, arose, and proposed the appointment of a commit- 
 tee on the subject. This was embraced by the orthodox on 
 all sides, though opposed by Friends ; but the more it was 
 opposed, the more determined were they in favour of the 
 measure ; and in defiance of a very large opposition and expres- 
 sion of disunity, and over the heads of many valuable exer- 
 cised Friends, they went on to appoint a committee to visit 
 the select quarterly and preparative meetings, on the subject 
 of unsoundness in the ministry. Divers of this committee 
 are ministers, and they are to sit in judgment on the ministry 
 of their brethren ; to form, of course, a standard of soundness, 
 and to judge down what they may deem unsound. Oh ! 
 lamentable degeneracy of Philadelphia Yearly Meeting ! " Thy 
 silver is become dross, thy wine mixed with water, thy princes 
 are rebellious." 
 
 Many tender spirits were pained with this arbitrary stretch 
 of orthodox power, to see the once beautiful order and unity 
 of the society thus prostrated and trampled upon to gratify 
 a false and fiery zeal, and an engine thus formed by a party, 
 in order to establish its authority over the consciences and 
 gifts of all who might be obnoxious to their creed, or standard 
 of doctrines. My mind had been forewarned in the revela- 
 tions of Divine light to expect such an event, and therefore I 
 calmly viewed these movements as permitted to occur, that 
 the eyes of Friends might be opened to behold the enormities 
 and arbitrary measures contemplated by this dominant, inqui- 
 sitorial spirit. 
 
Chap. XL] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 319 
 
 " Shall I not visit for these things, saith the Lord, and 
 shall not my soul be avenged on such a nation as this ?" 
 
 Went to Darby this evening "with Halliday Jackson, and 
 attended meeting there next day, wherein Jesse Kersey was 
 renewedly favoured to declare the Word of Life among the 
 people, evidencing that his precious gift is yet preserved in 
 life and sweetness, I had a short testimony following. Dined 
 at John Hunt's, and had a large circle of dear Friends' com- 
 pany in the afternoon, and some conversation on the awful 
 state of society, and the path to be pursued toward a separa- 
 tion from the confusion of language among the Babel-builders 
 of the present day. In the evening, a few Friends met in the 
 city to confer on this important subject, and after a time of 
 deep feeling together, agreed to meet again. 
 
 16th. Yearly Meeting began, and while in the midst of the 
 preliminary business, a visit from E. Robson was announced ; 
 and all proceedings suspended while we patiently heard her 
 almost an hour, exciting to firmness as a well-disciplined army, 
 &c. Then went on with the usual round of reading epistles, 
 &c., till an unseasonably late pei'iod, inasmuch as it was 
 known the representatives must stop to choose a clerk. At 
 half-past one the meeting adjourned till four ; and I had no 
 doubt this first sitting was protracted with a view to crowd the 
 representatives, so as to prevent their agreement in a change 
 of clerks. The image of jealousy was seen standing in the 
 entry, and it provoked to jealousy. 
 
 The representatives stayed together, and had a boisterous 
 time. It was not like a calm, deliberative body of brethren, 
 but all was disorder and confusion ; and the time for the 
 adjourned sitting of the Yearly Meeting arrived before they 
 had come to any agreement, when a few determined partizans 
 assumed the prerogative to inform the Y^'early Meeting, that 
 the representatives could not agree in the nomination of a 
 clerk. All was excitement and confusion, when, the doors 
 being opened, the multitude rushed in and prevented any fur- 
 ther discussion or conclusion, or even adjournment of the 
 representatives, who had thus been closely confined for six 
 hours without any refreshment. Such a melancholy scene was 
 probably never exhibited since Friends were a people. 
 
320 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 The report of a want of agreement among the representa- 
 tives, was considered by the orthodox as a re-appointment of 
 the old clerk of necessity, and they were forward to assert it, 
 though opposed by many of the other Friends, who were dis- 
 satisfied with the clerk and the artifices of the party uphold- 
 ing him. After long altercation and debate, there seeming no 
 liope of any agreement being come to among the representa- 
 tives, even if they should again meet, it was therefore so far 
 given up as a hopeless case, that the clerk and his brethren 
 eagerly made a minute confirming the old clerk and assistant 
 as officers for the present year. As assistant clerk, I was very 
 unwilling to resume my seat under such circumstances ; but it 
 was urged by several orthodox Friends, not because of their 
 unity with my being there, but because there seemed no other 
 way than to suffer it to be so under present circumstances. 
 After being repeatedly solicited and hurried by them, I re- 
 luctantly yielded as a present expedient, for I saw and felt 
 the disappointment and dissatisfaction among Friends to be 
 such, that a very little spark would kindle to an explosion a 
 mighty mass of feelings now working in the agitated, grieved, 
 and disgusted hearts of my brethren. Partaking of the sym- 
 pathy and exercise and travail of the oppressed, I felt a dis- 
 position of condescension, and sat at the table during the 
 remainder of that sitting, though greatly to the grief of many 
 of my own dear friends, who considered my compliance as a 
 mark of submission and acquiescence with orthodox measures, 
 that ought to have been steadily and firmly opposed ; and that 
 by thus yielding to them I had virtually sanctioned their 
 arbitrary proceedings, and weakened or tied my own hands. 
 
 At the close of this sitting, S. Bettle spoke to me on the 
 subject of my having been engaged among Friends in various 
 places, in promoting a division in the society, &c. I told him 
 I had not promoted a division, but that a division existing 
 which I had not made nor promoted, I had seen that it must 
 terminate in a separation of the two parties ; inasmuch as 
 things had been for some time growing worse and worse, and 
 to me there remained no hope of their getting better or a re- 
 conciliation taking place, while we were together under such 
 continual a";itation and excitement. I had therefore endea- 
 
Chap. XL] JOUKNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 321 
 
 voured to prepare the minds of Friends in divers places where 
 my lot had been cast to look toward such a separation in a 
 quiet, peaceable spirit and manner, by withdrawing from all 
 opposition to orthodox measures, and so to form or reorganize 
 the Society of Friends on the peaceable principle of love and 
 good-will to all, without contention. He said this was a very 
 different view of the subject from what had been reported 
 among them. I asked him if he had confidence in my speak- 
 ing the truth in sincerity in the representation I had given 
 him, which he assented to ; and I then repeated the substance 
 of the above, requesting him to spread it among his orthodox 
 brethren as my concern for the promotion of peace, and the only 
 way that I believed it could be effected under present circum- 
 stances. Various other subjects relative to the present state 
 of society, and the commotions prevalent, were discussed in a 
 free and social way ; but as he enjoined on me not to disclose 
 them at that time, I omit a further account at present. 
 
 This evening was a time of great exercise, " the sea and 
 the waves roaring, men's hearts failing them for fear, and for 
 looking at those things that were coming upon them." My 
 mind deeply sympathized with the sufferings and agitations 
 of others ; but as to myself, I regarded little as related to the 
 affairs of society or the Yearly Meeting, considering all as lost 
 and hopeless in respect to the ancient order and harmony of 
 the body, and my eye steadily fixed on a separation of the 
 two jarring and contending parties, as the only measures to be 
 taken for the preservation of " that which remains of the pure 
 Truth," and which, "if we continue together as one diseased 
 body, is ready to die." However, under the deep exercise 
 that pervaded my mind, as I lay awake toward morning, it 
 opened in the visions of Light as a duty settling upon me, to 
 lay before the Yearly Meeting at its next sitting the state of 
 society as it now stands, and a proposal for adjourning the 
 Yearly Meeting, that the present difference may be healed if 
 practicable, so that we may again become qualified to hold a 
 Yearly Meeting to the reputation, comfort, and health of the 
 body. This exercise and concern lay heavy upon me, and I 
 concluded to open it to my dear aged friend John Cox before 
 meeting, that I might have his fatherly sympathy and unity 
 21 
 
322 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 in the awfully important concern and prospect before me. I 
 "went to liis lodgings, but could obtain no opportunity of inter- 
 view with him, owing to his continued engagements, till meet- 
 ing-time. Confiding in His power and direction who re- 
 quired this duty of me, I humbly trusted in his goodness, and 
 thus in awful fear and reverence waited till the meeting was 
 opened. I then rose, and said in substance : That it had been 
 through condescension to a few Friends that I took my seat 
 at the table as assistant clerk the preceding afternoon, but 
 that as I did not consider I was appointed with the unity of 
 the meeting, I was not easy to serve in that capacity under 
 the present circumstances. That it was a fact unquestiona- 
 ble, that in the present Yearly Meeting of the Society of 
 Friends there existed two distinct parties. That this body 
 had a query, " Is love and unity maintained amongst you?" 
 This query, if answered by each party separately, would be 
 answered in the affirmative ; but if answered by these two 
 parties together as a body, it must be answered in the nega- 
 tive — that love and unity do not subsist between these two 
 parties as become the followers of Christ, or as brethren. 
 The query further requires that "Where any differences arise, 
 are endeavours used speedily to end them?" Now it was 
 obvious that a difference, a very serious difference, does exist 
 between these two parties ; a difference involving in its effects 
 more serious and awful consequences than any difference 
 about temporal interest or property. But what endeavours 
 have been used for a speedy termination of this unhappy dif- 
 ference ? Let every friend of peace and order seriously in- 
 vestigate his own conduct herein. Whatever may have been 
 the causes of this difference and division, and this breach of 
 love and unity, and however Friends may have neglected their 
 duty in endeavouring speedily to end it, it may not now be so 
 needful to dwell upon, as to endeavour to feel after and see 
 what is now required of us toward a better state of things ; 
 and therefore I proposed that as we were evidently at the pre- 
 sent time in such a state that Ave were not qualified to trans- 
 act any business to profit as a Yearly jNIeeting — that the 
 meeting suspend all further prosecution of its business, and 
 adjourn till we can come together in more harmony, love, and 
 
Chap. XI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 323 
 
 unity one with and toward another. And in order that this 
 may be promoted, and the unhappy difference that exists be 
 healed, all Friends who love peace, and who desire the bless- 
 ing of peace-makers, may in the interval have opportunity to 
 exert themselves in fulfilling their several and respective 
 duties, toward a speedy termination of these broils and con- 
 tentions, if happily, under the Divine blessing, their labours 
 might tend to the restoration of love and harmony and peace 
 in the society. Such, if there be such yet among us who 
 were not disqualified by party spirit, were called upon to see 
 to their stations, and be faithful to their gifts. But if this 
 Yearly Meeting should not accede to the proposal of an 
 adjournment, but should go on in the present agitated, un- 
 settled manner in which it now appeared to me, I felt con- 
 scientiously scrupulous of acting as its organ, in the station 
 of assistant clerk, under the present circumstances, as I did 
 not consider myself appointed in the order nor with the 
 unity of the meeting. I then again distinctly stated my pro- 
 posal of adjourning the Yearly Meeting, on the consideration 
 before mentioned, and sat down, without mentioning any spe- 
 cific time for its coming together again ; this I considered 
 would properly belong to the meeting if it should adopt the 
 measure. 
 
 A solemn stillness pervaded the meeting. To some, espe- 
 cially the orthodox, whose plans had been previously laid, it 
 seemed like the shock of an earthquake ; to othei'S, tried, 
 tossed, oppressed, afflicted, it appeared like an avenue of hope. 
 It was probably to all, a proposal, a statement, unlooked for, 
 unprecedented. It obtained deep consideration with some 
 who expressed their unity therewith ; and " deep called unto 
 deep" in others, as at the sound of water-spouts, that might 
 break over their heads and overwhelm their ship in the ocean 
 of confusion and the billows of destruction. It was an awful 
 season, in which that vast body of jarring Friends seemed for 
 a time suspended in awful expectation. In this solemn time 
 Doctor Parrish arose, and advancing in the passage-way, com- 
 menced a pathetic appeal to the meeting in reference to his 
 ancestry and their attachment to society, and his own state 
 and that of his contemporaries as holding the same principles 
 
324 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 and the same attachment to the Society of Friends, and 
 adverting to the present unhappy circumstances as stated, and 
 the proposal then before the meeting ; his feelings were so 
 wrought up that the organs of utterance failed, and a solem- 
 nity was spread over the meeting, that enveloped in its 
 blessed canopy even many of the rigid, unyielding orthodox 
 party. 
 
 After more than half an hour had been spent in the con- 
 sideration of this subject, in which my mind was clothed with 
 calmness and peace, and in Avhich many minds had deeply 
 felt for the state of the meeting, many also appeared to unite 
 with the views and proposal ; but others opposed it on the 
 ground of its noA'elty, and some considered it as a proposal to 
 dissolve the Yearly Meeting, and therefore opposed it. Others 
 thought, as Friends had come together from a great distance, 
 they had better try to go on with the business, and proposed 
 releasing me ; and that the clerk could proceed without an 
 assistant, as I had said I was not free to act. Others again 
 entreated me to continue at the table, and some hoped I might 
 be firm and leave it. 
 
 While under these various and discordant views expressed 
 by Friends, seeing that the proposal was not likely to be 
 adopted, but that the meeting would bo likely to proceed, I 
 became exercised in concern for its holding together in some 
 reputable manner without an abrupt explosion. And as I felt 
 after this concern, and evidently saw that a change had taken 
 place in the minds of many, that the ships of the orthodox 
 plans had been broken by the shock as at Ezion Geber, and 
 that the meeting would proceed on a different policy from 
 what had been intended, that even the friends of order and 
 quietness were not generally prepared for such a measure, I 
 again rose and told the meeting, that although I had, in 
 making the proposal, which I now saw was not likely to be 
 adopted by the meeting, expressed a strait in regard to acting 
 as the organ of the meeting under existing circumstances, but 
 that now, on further consideration, as the meeting seemed 
 likely to pursue its business, and as many Friends expressed 
 a wish that I should act as assistant clerk, I felt disposed to 
 submit, and serve the meeting in that -station, ^7'oivV?<?(^ Iivere 
 
Chap. XI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 325 
 
 now appointed ly the meeting^ and this to be known by the 
 general expression of unity at the present time. This sub- 
 mission was the result of the change which I saw and felt in 
 the state of the meeting from what it had been before, and 
 when those scruples impressed my mind ; and from the view 
 then opened of a little narrow path in which I might be of 
 some use to the meeting as assistant clerk, if appointed in 
 the general unity, which was now very largely expressed by 
 very many voices. In this submission and renewed appoint- 
 ment by the meeting I felt easy to remain, and the meeting 
 asrain resumed its course — such as it was. But it must be 
 evident to every impartial mind, that such a mass of hetero- 
 geneous minds, and feelings, and views, could by no possible 
 means be enabled to conduct the weighty affairs of a Yearly 
 Meetincr, to the edification and health and comfort of the 
 body — the diseased body — the broken, disjointed body. Yet, 
 as we were together, Friends seemed to think it would be dis- 
 graceful to adjourn without further attempting to transact the 
 customary business. Alas ! many goodly Friends did not see 
 and know the depth and designs of the orthodox plans. To 
 me it appeared clear that all was over, and the case utterly hope- 
 less of a reconciliation and healing of the breach now existing. 
 Hence nothing remained for us who wished for peace, quietness, 
 and liberty of conscience and of speech, but quietly to with- 
 draw from communion and break off all connection in religious 
 society with our opposing brethren. The necessity and the 
 weight of this work so impressed my mind, and the awful view 
 of the difficulties to be surmounted in preparing the minds of 
 Friends to mount over prepossessions, and prejudices, and 
 attachments, as well as the undisciplined state of many, Avho 
 have not yet sufficiently known the yoke laid on the active 
 and forward zeal of the creature, all pressed with full force 
 upon me, and for a season totally unmanned me, so that I 
 seemed unable to sustain the awful weight of exercise without 
 venting my feelings in the copious effusion of tears. This 
 occurred twice during the Y'early Meeting. 
 
 18tli. Fourth-day very early, before I arose, another bur- 
 den of concern clothed my exercised spirit, on account of the 
 proceedings of the Select Yearly Meeting, which had adjourned 
 
326 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1827. 
 
 till eight o'clock this morning. This resulted in a clear open- 
 ing of duty to call the attention of the meeting to a recon- 
 sideration of the subject of the appointment of the committee 
 that was made last seventh-day, that it might be rescinded. 
 
 Under the weight and pressure of this duty I attended said 
 meeting, humbly and simply confiding in the power of that 
 Eternal Being who has a right to our perfect obedience, and 
 who uses such instruments as his wisdom sees meet for carry- 
 ing on his great work in the earth, in his church, and among 
 the kingdoms of men ; and giveth power to the faint, and to 
 them that have no might of their own to depend upon he in- 
 creaseth strength. 
 
 Henry Hull just got out to this meeting, having been con- 
 fined with sickness. He appeared in a lengthy prayer and 
 testimony, and then, after a pause, I arose and informed the 
 meeting of my exercise, that to the fact of the existence of two 
 distinct parties in society, having distinct and opposite views 
 and opinions, was to be attributed the difierence in the reports 
 respecting the ministry. That what was judged, in great sin- 
 cerity, to be sound doctrine by one party, was condemned as 
 unsound by the other. That as we could only believe and 
 judge according to the evidence and capacity with which we 
 were furnished, there might be great sincerity and honesty in 
 both parties in their opinions and representations in answer 
 to the second Query; but to condemn and censure ten quar- 
 terly meetings in the country for hypocrisy and a want of can- 
 dour in their answers, and act upon the opinion of Philadel- 
 phia quarter that unsound ministry exists among them, so 
 as to appoint the committee to visit all the quarterly and 
 preparative meetings of ministers and elders as implicated in 
 the same censure, when nothing appeared in their reports to 
 warrant such a charge ; and especially as the appointment 
 was made out of the order, out of the unity of the meeting, 
 and carried over the heads of many exercised Friends, who 
 still remained very much tried with the conduct of the meet- 
 ing, was not likely to have a tendency to unite and harmonize 
 the society, nor to heal the breach already existing, but would 
 in all probability widen and increase it. I therefore dis- 
 tinctly proposed that the meeting should reconsider the sub- 
 
Chap. XL] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 327 
 
 ject, and see -vvhether a way would not open to rescind tliat 
 appointment. 
 
 A few of the opposing party were for going on without 
 noticing the proposal, but others, more moderate, seeing it 
 was perfectly in order, with many other aggrieved Friends, 
 took hold of the subject, and some time was spent thexeon. 
 Seeing at length that nothing would be done to alter the con- 
 clusions of the arbitrary power that reigned in that meeting, 
 I again rose and told them, that having performed my duty 
 in again drawing the attention of the meeting to the subject, 
 and believing as I did that the harmony, the peace, and the 
 best interests of society were deeply concerned in the proper 
 result of the subject, which I now saw was not likely to pro- 
 duce that relief which many suffering minds stood in need 
 of, I was willing to leave it ; and under the feelings of good- 
 will to all men, I bid the meeting an aifectionate fareivell. 
 This being pronounced with particular emphasis, gave some 
 of them an idea that I was going to leave the Yearly Meet- 
 ing immediately, and I was so questioned before I left the 
 house. It seems by this time they had fancied to themselves 
 that my influence with their opponents was such, that if I 
 left the meeting, it might almost dissolve, or break it up. 
 To leave Friends and the meeting in an abrupt manner, I 
 had no intention, but as I never expected to attend that 
 Select Yearly Meeting again, constituted as it is at pre- 
 sent, and feeling the renewings of Divine love to fill my 
 heart toward all men, my farewell was with deep meaning ; 
 and my mind was clothed with calmness and peace in the 
 performance of this very important duty. I now consi- 
 dered that the dominant party were left without excuse ; that 
 a renewed call had been made, and an appeal to every feel- 
 ing that is Christian in them, that they might relax their 
 rigid measures, and put on some bowels of tender feeling 
 toward those who differ from their views and measures. But 
 no, though entreated for the children's sake, they have be- 
 come comparable to "the ostriches of the wilderness;" their 
 eyes have become blinded, and also the eyes of many who 
 have implicity followed them ; they have been crj^ing out against 
 us, and declaring there must he a separation ; and now behold 
 
328 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 1830. 
 
 the machinations that are going into operation to effect it. 
 But they may experience a humiliating disappointment of 
 their expectations, and the means employed to retain their 
 ascendency may ultimately become the instruments of their 
 own chastisement. 
 
 The business of the Yearly Meeting was carried on with 
 tolerable quietness after this sitting of the Select Yearly 
 Meeting. There seemed a disposition prevalent to try to get 
 along without much excitement; for by this time it was per- 
 ceived that the combustible materials only needed the torch 
 to produce a terrible explosion. The two proposals from 
 Abington and Bucks relative to the elders and meeting for 
 sufferings, were not yet acted upon ; and in conference with 
 S. Bettle, he said if we would give them up, he or they would 
 give up the subject of appeals brought up from Philadelphia 
 quarter. I told him I had not had any hand in them, be- 
 cause I knew the society was not in a state to make any new 
 discipline, nor qualified to do any business profitably. He 
 said my influence was sufficient to induce my friends to let 
 those cases drop, and that he would do what he could to quiet 
 their party. I let him know it was my wish that the meeting 
 might get through in quietness if practicable, inasmuch as 
 we were together, and the sooner the better ; and that I 
 would, as occasions offered, use my endeavours to persuade 
 Friends to drop those subjects, without any measures being 
 taken on them. This I did, because I saw that my concern 
 for a separation was gaining ground in many minds, and that 
 any alterations made in Discipline by this Yearly Meeting 
 would be of no avail toward healing the incurable breach made 
 in the society. 
 
 Meetings of conference on the subject of a peaceful, quiet 
 retreat from the present state of confusion, were held by a 
 number of exercised Friends at two or three times, when a few 
 friends were named to draft an address to the quarterly 
 and monthly meetings, to be signed by the representatives 
 and other Friends. This occupied some of our minds so 
 closely that we omitted attending the public meetings on 
 fifth-day; on the evening of which day a large number, 
 perhaps near two hundred, met at Green street to confer 
 
Chai'.XL] journal of JOHN COMLY. 829 
 
 on tlie subject; and the sketch of an Address was read, and 
 appeared generally satisfactory; but the evening being short 
 and the business very weighty and important, we adjourned 
 to meet again the next evening. 
 
 This afternoon the subject of appeals was opened, and an 
 orthodox member rose soon after, and proposed its being re- 
 turned to Philadelphia quarter. The silence that followed, 
 and the assent of several of that zealous party, gave evidence 
 that there was an understanding among them on this subject ; 
 Qifew voices only, and a few minutes time, were sufficient to 
 decide, and the clerk made a minute accordingly. Thus this 
 formidable scheme, that cost so much labour and art and con- 
 trivance, to get it on from Twelfth street monthly meeting 
 and through the quarter, with the whole amount of suffering 
 and time occupied there, together with the persevering zeal 
 of its supporters — all, all was defeated, being founded in 
 man's counsel and wisdom. 
 
 This evening, as I was walking down Third street with 
 Samuel Hicks of New York, I was accosted by S. Bettle, 
 and inquired of, what should be done with the business be- 
 tween the Southern quarter and the meeting for sufferings.* 
 I told him I could see nothing about it, nor propose any ex- 
 pedient at all. He seemed concerned lest it should occasion 
 an explosion or difficulty, but I had no view or clear prospect 
 thereon. So we walked on, and various interesting subjects 
 relative to the present state of the two parties were discussed, 
 and we ag-reed that it would be better and much more 
 honourable to part, than to remain in the present jarring 
 state. But when I proposed an amicable adjustment of mat- 
 ters relative to a separation, and that a few moderate men of 
 each party should be named to get together and consider the 
 subjects of mutual interest, such as an equal division of pro- 
 perty, &c., he peremptorily informed me that the}^ (the ortho- 
 dox) would do no such thing ; that they could have nothing to 
 do with promoting our measures of a separation, &c. This 
 conversation and walk held near an hour, and I obtained his 
 consent to make a prudent use of some of his sentiments and 
 views on the subjects discussed. 
 
 On sixth-day morning the two subjects brought up by 
 * See Appendix, p. 645. 
 
330 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 Abington and Bucks were opened, and after a pause I felt my 
 way open to propose that no steps be taken on them at pre- 
 sent. This I did on the principle that I have before men- 
 tioned, and on the additional one that Friends, particularly 
 of Abington, Bucks, and Concord, had now become so gene- 
 rally prepared for looking toward a separation, that their in- 
 terest and concern for the change, as a means of restoration 
 and benefit to the Society, had very much if not nearly alto- 
 gether subsided ; and that to us there was nothing to be 
 gained by prosecuting these subjects. This I found by open- 
 ing it to the company met at Green street last evening ; and 
 the meeting soon got calmly through with these subjects — 
 several of the orthodox expressing their unity with the proposal 
 of dismissal, and particularly as it came from such a source, 
 they said. 
 
 In the afternoon came on the business from the Southern 
 quarter relative to the conduct of the meeting for sufferings ; 
 and one of the committee from that quarter rose in order to 
 explain the nature of their grievances, but he was checked, 
 and a proposal was made to get over that case also by drop- 
 ping it. So in the present accommodating spirit of trying to 
 avoid excitement, the meeting seemed willing to let that also 
 pass without investigation, though much to the dissatisfaction 
 of some members of that quarter, Avho wished to be heard in 
 explanation and vindication of the steps they had taken. 
 
 The meeting might easily have got through this evening, 
 but some delay had, somehow or other, occurred (perhaps de- 
 signedly) with the committee on epistles, so that only two or 
 three were ready, and we had to adjourn. This savoured a 
 little of design, for I do not remember a case lately that the 
 meeting had to make an adjournment on this account, nor 
 could any sufiicient reason be given for this delay. 
 
 Another very large and solemn conference was held this 
 evening at Green street. The Address was united with, and 
 some progress made in the signing of it by the representa- 
 tives ; but it did not appear clear that this plan of making it 
 official would be best, and the time being too short, it was 
 thought best to adjourn till the rise of the Yearly Meeting 
 to-morrow. It was supposed above six himdred Friends were 
 
Chap. XL] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 331 
 
 present at this weighty conference, and great order and har- 
 mony prevailed. 
 
 Seventh-day morning, before I rose, I saw that the pro- 
 posal of sending our Address to quarterly and monthly meet- 
 ings as an act of the representatives would not be best, but 
 that it be signed on behalf of the conference, and directed to 
 Friends at large in the limits of our Yearly Meeting. This 
 settled with clearness and calmness as the opening of Truth. 
 
 Yearly Meeting came on, read the remaining epistles, and 
 proceeded to reading the minutes over, preparatory to a quiet 
 close — when lo ! before we were half through, two messengers 
 from the women announced a proposal for having a committee 
 appointed to visit the quarterly and monthly meetings. The 
 meeting generally appeared unprepared for and opposed to 
 the measure, and a number (including the clerk) of orthodox 
 Friends expressed their minds that the meeting was not 
 prepared at this late period to go into an appointment. 
 It seemed about to be dismissed, when a certain young 
 man, who it appeared had been at Green-street conference 
 last evening as a spy, arose and opened to the meeting the 
 business that had been transacted at that conference, and made 
 some incorrect statements also. He mentioned my name par- 
 ticularly, and designated me as a ringleader or conspicuous 
 character there. His statement being denied by a conspicuous 
 Friend, he called on me by name to clear him of the charge 
 of falsehood, or correct him. But I saw and felt the spirit 
 he was in, and in perfect composure and calmness remained 
 silent, as knowing that I was professedly in a Yearly Meet- 
 ing, where no such altercations and disputations should be 
 allowed, and therefore "answered him not a word." 
 
 This statement and disclosure drew out large expression in 
 favour of having a committee appointed, and even those who 
 had opposed it turned and rallied their forces anew, and the 
 clerk proceeded to writing a minute for the purpose ; while 
 the friends of truth and order, astonished at this determina- 
 tion of arbitrary power to carry its point, remained silent 
 spectators ; after a Friend had proposed that if they would 
 go into the appointment over the heads of their brethren, the 
 
332 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 committee should all be of tbeii* own party. This suited 
 them, and they acted accoi'dingly. 
 
 While they were thus executing their scheme, which many 
 believe to have been premeditated, I saw that the Yearly 
 Meeting was now usurped by orthodox power, and henceforth 
 to be under their control and direction, as Philadelphia quar- 
 ter was. This I had anticipated and predicted, and therefore 
 was prepared quietly to look on, without emotion or alarm, 
 well knowing that this measure, instead of forwarding their 
 plans of separation, would greatly promote my concern for 
 our peaceful and quiet withdrawment from religious com- 
 munion with them, by its reaction in preparing the minds of 
 hundreds of Friends for such a movement. Under this pros- 
 pect, and feeling that Friends have no further lot nor part in 
 this divided Yearly Meeting, I was just on the point of rising 
 to go out on a necessary occasion, when instantly the thought 
 occurred that if I did so the meeting might dissolve in dis- 
 order. I was afterward told that had I then left the meeting 
 it was probable fifteen hundred Friends would have followed, 
 such was the general feeling of disapprobation among Friends 
 at the disorders and arbitrary proceedings of this blind par- 
 tizan zeal. 
 
 After they had finished their business, and the Y>arly 
 Meeting ended — to many a final end — we repaired to Green- 
 street conference, where all was harmony, and brotherly-kind- 
 ness, and peace. And though many of us had taken little or 
 no refreshment for our bodies since morning, yet were our 
 spirits refreshed together in the goodness of Israel's Shep- 
 herd evidently felt among us, under which precious cementing 
 covering we proceeded in great harmony to finish the 
 "Address to Friends,"* after the manner I had seen early 
 this morning ; which on being opened to them, was a great re- 
 lief to many minds, and Friends were fully satisfied in the 
 direction both for signing and spreading said Address, and we 
 parted in much nearness and Christian fellowship. 
 
 •■^ This "Address," in subsequent days, for brevity sake, was styled, "The 
 Green-street Address." 
 
Chap. XII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 333 
 
 Now there was great excitement and alarm among the or- 
 thodox. A conference of seven or eight hundred Friends, 
 resulting in a mild, pacific address* to Friends, in order to 
 prepare their minds for " a quiet retreat from these scenes of 
 confusion" and disorder, which the Yearly Meeting, and Phila- 
 delphia quarter especially, had painfully presented. This 
 struck them with astonishment ; yet, having a partisan com- 
 mittee of the Select Yearly Meeting, and another from the 
 General Yearly Meeting, they seemed to rest in the delusive 
 confidence of their powers and assumed authority. 
 
 At this Yearly Meeting the orthodox spirit had mani- 
 fested itself in distinct vieAV to many minds, who before had 
 only heard of its arbitrary doings, and to many who had heard 
 very little, if any thing, about the state of things in Philadel- 
 phia. Many retin*ned home with painful feelings ; and many 
 with a prospect, or wish, never again to attend such a Yearly 
 Meeting. As to myself, I beheld the way marvellously open- 
 ing for the oppressed seed to go free ; and though I saw Pha- 
 raoh and his host pursuing after them, I reposed my hope and 
 trust in the I AM that had appeared unto me. And I fully 
 believed, as we kept humble, and moved on in his counsel, that 
 he would open a way for us through the Red Sea and through 
 the wilderness, and bring us safely into the promised land, to 
 the praise of his grace that hath called us to " come out from 
 among them and be separate." 
 
 CHAPTER XII. 
 
 Fourth month 22d. — First-day, I returned home from the 
 city and attended our meeting; and notwithstanding all the 
 toils and exercises of Yearly Meeting week, my gracious 
 Master favoured me with an open time in public testimony 
 among the people. To his name be the praise. 
 
 30th. Felt an openness to attend Abington monthly meet- 
 
 * See Appendix. 
 
334 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1827. 
 
 ing, and to me it was a satisfactory season. Friends intro- 
 duced the "Green-street Address," had it read, and with but 
 little opposition directed it to the quarterly meeting. Re- 
 turned to a conference which was appointed for our members 
 at Byberry, in the afternoon. It was well attended, and 
 though a new thing, was a solemn, interesting season. Much 
 sympathy was felt with our suffering Friends in the city, and 
 the way was hereby opened for them to come forward and be 
 joined to our meeting without certificates ; for Christian sym- 
 pathy is a law and discipline of love that is adapted to every 
 occasion. 
 
 Fifth month 1st. — Our monthly meeting was held, and the 
 Green-street Address read therein. Several Friends from 
 Philadelphia attended, but did not yet feel their way open to 
 apply for admission among us. A great anxiety and thought- 
 fulness pervades the minds of Friends, and the concern ap- 
 pears to be spreading for effecting a quiet separation. 
 
 2d. Attended Horsham monthly meeting ; and in the after- 
 noon, a general conference of its members, which was an 
 interesting season of renewed feelings of love and unity, and 
 tender sympathy with the oppressed. The "Address" was 
 read, and the minds of Friends seem preparing for the im- 
 portant movement of standing separate from our opposing 
 brethren. 
 
 3d. Attended Gwynedd monthly meeting, and had some 
 open service in the cause of Truth, both in the first and latter 
 part of the meeting, and the hope is felt that it was profitable. 
 
 4th. Was at Richland monthly meeting, and at the close 
 sat in a conference with a number of Friends to good satis- 
 faction, and returned home that night. 
 
 9th. Was our select quarterly meeting at Horsham. A 
 number of the committee appointed by the dominant party in 
 the late Yearly Meeting attended, and before going on with 
 the business, it was alleged by some of them that there were 
 those present who had not a right to sit ; alluding to such as 
 had attended the Green-street conference. They used va- 
 rious arguments to induce us to withdraw, several times 
 mentioning my name aloud, and exclaiming against Friends 
 as separatists, &c. But shielded by the Divine presence 
 
Chap. XII. ] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 335 
 
 which was as a Rock and a Foi'tress, my mind was kept in a 
 perfect calm ; and seeing that silence under accusation was 
 the excellent example set by the great Pattern, I was pre- 
 served therein, and the breathing of my spirit was, "Father, 
 forgive the ignorant, blind zeal of thy erring children." It 
 was an awful day to the little lambs, but the Shepherd of the 
 sheep was mindful of us, and kept us from harm. Magnified 
 be his name forever. 
 
 10th. Was the general quarterly meeting. The orthodox 
 committee from the late Yearly Meeting, and a vast number 
 of Friends from all parts within thirty or forty miles attended. 
 A very crowded meeting, and a very rainy day ; but it was a 
 day and meeting on which seemed to be suspended the lot and 
 destination of thousands on the present stage of religious ac- 
 tion, and by consequence of multitudes unborn. It was to 
 be decided whether arbitrary power with its iron rod should 
 rule the society, or whether virtue and religious liberty of 
 conscience should re-assume their rightful empire among 
 Friends. In this awful crisis, many minds partook of deep 
 exercise and anxiety, and many intercessions were offered up 
 for the salvation of Zion, and the protection of her little ones. 
 The meeting at several times presented a scene of awful con- 
 flict — a scene of apparent disorder — when many voices simul- 
 taneously resounded from all parts of the house, in vindication 
 of rights and privileges dear to every friend of peace, of truth, 
 and of order. At length the victory over assumed authority 
 and inquisitorial power was effected, and the hearts of many 
 leaped for joy; whilst others were disappointed, sad and cha- 
 grined, that their plans and powers were opposed and frus- 
 trated in a manner they had not anticipated. But to record 
 these painful scenes, and present a picture of such declension 
 from the peaceable spirit of the Lamb, is a task that involves 
 no pleasing sensations. 
 
 11th. Attended Middletown monthly meeting, which was 
 an open, favoured time to me and many others. The Green- 
 street Address was I'ead, and directed to the quarterly meet- 
 ing. Next day I sat with Friends at the Falls monthly meet- 
 ing, with a calm, quiet mind, though no opening for public 
 service till afternoon, when a conference was held and the 
 
336 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 "Address" was read, and my mind enlarged in gospel love 
 and spiritual sympathy with the tried, afflicted lambs of 
 Christ. It was a memorable opportunity to some. 
 
 14th and 15th. Attended Concord quarterly meeting, held 
 at Wilmington. Was a silent sympathizer with Friends in 
 their trials. On my return home, sat with Friends in Green- 
 street monthly meeting, which, after a few of the arbitrary 
 party withdrew, was held in much quiet and harmony. 
 
 26th. Went to Philadelphia on my way to Southern quar- 
 terly meeting, took steamboat to Wilmington, lodged at my 
 valued friend's, Eli Hillis's. Next morning, set out early with 
 Huson Swain for Cantwell's Bridge ; arrived seasonably to 
 attend Appoquinimink meeting. It was small, only a few 
 Friends residing there, but was a meeting of Divine favour. 
 In the afternoon set out with David Wilson and wife, in their 
 carriage, and rode twenty miles to S. Turner's at the head of 
 Chester River, where we were hospitably entertained. We 
 were now in Maryland, and had evidences of the existence 
 of slavery in this otherwise beautiful country. The next day 
 we travelled upward of forty miles, through the same kind of 
 soil and excellent roads to Easton. Arrived at Doctor R. 
 Moore's about sunset, and were kindly received and enter- 
 tained. Attended the quarterly meeting held there the 
 29th and 30th ; also the general public meeting on fifth-day, 
 81st. In the afternoon, set out with D. W. and wife, M. 
 Moore, and S. Turner, in order to reach the dwelling of the 
 latter that evening, forty-two miles ; but before we arrived we 
 were overtaken by a storm of rain, with lightning and heavy 
 thunder, in the midst of which, and the darkness attendant, 
 we were in imminent danger of being upset by reason of one 
 of the horses getting off the end of a bridge. We all had to 
 alight in the midst of the storm and darkness ; and after get- 
 ting the carriage back on level ground and the women Friends 
 sheltered in a gig, myself and one of the men Friends set off 
 to walk the rest of the way. On coming to Chester River, we 
 found it impassable by the preceding rains ; we therefore had 
 to go round by a mill-dam to cross the stream, and arrived at 
 S. Turner's before twelve o'clock, wet and fatigued. After 
 taking some refreshment, and our company all getting to- 
 
Chap. XII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 337 
 
 gether, we retired with sentiments of gratitude for our pre- 
 servation ; and may it be numbered among the benefits of an 
 ever watchful Providence. 
 
 Sixth month 1st. — A fine, clear, cool morning. Rose re- 
 freshed and thankful. After an interesting conversation with 
 S. T. and his brother, we set out, and had a pleasant ride to 
 D. W.'s hospitable mansion. Spent the afternoon there, read- 
 ing Adam Clarke's Commentaries on the New Testament — a 
 laborious work both to write and read. Many of his com- 
 ments appear the result of hard labour without light ; others 
 appear more lucid. On the whole, I regret that he wrote so 
 many things from imagination, that will tend to bewilder 
 rather than instruct. And yet, on some subjects, he appears 
 to have been an enlightened man. Some of his introductory 
 observations on the Scriptures in general, are worthy of pe- 
 rusal ; and some comments on particular passages show an 
 understanding deeper than the letter. Oh ! that active, illu- 
 minated minds would abide in holy patience, and not run out 
 into imaginations to supply the place of inspiration, which 
 comes not in man's will or time. 
 
 Joseph Bringhurst and wife arrived this evening, and some 
 interesting and instructive converse closed the day. Next 
 morning set out with D. W., took steamboat at Newcastle, 
 and arrived in Philadelphia in the evening. 
 
 3d. This morning. Friends opened a meeting for worship, 
 in a hired room in Carpenter's court, near Chestnut street. 
 It was large and solemn, in which several testimonies were 
 borne, and Jesse Kersey appeared with life and energy, and 
 concluded in solemn supplication evidently owned by the Shep- 
 herd of Israel. 
 
 This meeting was held by permission of Byberry monthly 
 meeting. Several Friends of Southern district monthly meet- 
 ing had applied to ours, to be recognised as members without 
 certificates ; and the Christian sympathy and brotherly feel- 
 ings of Friends in our meeting had adopted them as mem- 
 bers, aside the usual custom of society, which has no letter of 
 discipline provided for the exigence of the occasion ; but 
 Truth, and Charity, its heaven-born ofispring, supplied the 
 deficiency, in the feeling of gospel love that teaches us to do 
 22 
 
338 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 unto others as we would that they in similar circumstances 
 should do unto us. These Friends are now rescued from 
 their trammels, by the transfer of their rights of member- 
 ship ; and this meeting, both morning and afternoon, so far 
 as the evidence of order, of harmony, of solemn reverential 
 feeling and gratitude, may be relied on, was owned by the 
 great Object of adoration as an acceptable sacrifice, and 
 was a realization of the peaceable fruits of the Spirit of the 
 Lamb. 
 
 4th. Friends met at Green street, in conference on the 
 state of society, according to adjournment. 
 
 It was thought upward of a thousand were in attendance. 
 Great solemnity, order, and harmony prevailed. The minds 
 of Friends seemed bowed in reverential awe before Him to 
 whom we looked for counsel and direction in the momentous 
 concern that engaged our attention. 
 
 The business was opened by reading the proceedings and 
 Address of the conference in the fourth month last ; and the 
 weighty subjects which claimed the attention of this meeting 
 in its several sittings, were moved in with deliberation and 
 unanimit3\ Friends believing that there would be a pro- 
 priety in looking toward re-organizing the Yearly Meeting, 
 an epistle* was addressed to our absent members, so as to 
 prepare the way for thus gathering again into one the tried, 
 afflicted, and oppressed members of the body. A large com- 
 mittee was appointed to assist Friends in their varied trials 
 and difficulties, attendant on the separation from religious 
 communion with their opposing brethren. The meeting 
 throughout was a solemn, memorable season, vouchsafed by 
 Divine goodness. May his counsel guide us, and his wisdom 
 and love influence every movement, to the praise of his grace 
 who hath graciously helped us hitherto, and wonderfully 
 opened a way in the hearts of his humble, dependent chil- 
 dren, for the advancement of this righteous concern for his 
 honour and glory, and for the salvation, peace, and prosperity 
 of the Society of Friends. 
 
 After sitting in close exercise with my friends, the first 
 
 * See Appendix. 
 
Chap. XII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 339 
 
 day of tliLS conference, I was taken unwell with chills, and 
 some symptoms of dysentery and bilious fever. This had for 
 some days, perhaps since my exposure in the rain and thun- 
 der-storm, been gradually increasing upon me ; and now my 
 bodily powers yielded to the pressure of disease, which con- 
 fined me mostly to my bed for several days. But though 
 under much debility of body, my mind was preserved clear 
 and calm, and could thankfully acknowledge the present dis- 
 pensation as a favour from Heaven, releasing me a few days 
 from active exertions in the cause and concern in which I 
 had travelled almost unremittingly, for months past ; yet not 
 mentally discharged from exercise and care for the progress 
 and promotion of the blessed cause of " peace on earth and 
 good- will to men." Here, very kindly attended to by physi- 
 cians, and the dear Friends, William and Deborah F. Wharton, 
 under whose hospitable roof I was in mercy permitted to lie, 
 my mind had opportunity to go over all, from the beginning 
 of this concern and engagement, and to retrace my move- 
 ments, to examine the spirit and temper of my conduct, and 
 to investigate the whole subject over and over. This was a 
 profitable exercise ; and on taking a retrospect of my pro- 
 ceedings, my mind was graciously permitted to centre in 
 Divine love, that diffused itself through my whole feelings 
 toward all mankind, and particularly moved my sympathy 
 toward the suffering condition of my dear friends, the friends 
 of truth, of peace, and of love ; and fervent desires were raised 
 for their preservation, in holy persevering patience, amidst all 
 the trials to which they are subject. Pity and compassion 
 also filled my heart toward many of those who have wandered 
 from the fold of rest, and in various degrees are progressing 
 toward a state of bitterness and hardness of heart. " Father, 
 forgive them, for they know not what they do," was the inter- 
 cession of my spirit on behalf of these. 
 
 ^Nlany dear friends called to see and inquire how I was, 
 and though the physicians did not admit of my seeing many 
 of them for some days on account of my weak state, yet this 
 testimony of their love was cordial to my mind, and cause of 
 gratitude to the Author of all good. 
 
 On fifth-day, the 14th of sixth month, I was so far reco- 
 
340 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 vered as to be able to ride home, accompanied by my endeared 
 friends, William Wharton and wife, whose tenderness and 
 Tinwearied assiduity have renewedly united them to my heart. 
 The physicians, who daily and feelingly waited on me, claim 
 also my grateful acknowledgments and renewed feelings of 
 friendship and regard, as well as very many others of my 
 dear friends in city and country. 
 
 17th. Though my bodily powers were yet feeble, I attended 
 our meeting, which was a comfortable one, in silence. Glad 
 to see so many of my dear friends again. 
 
 On fourth-day the 20th, as I sat in our week-day meeting, 
 my heart was enlarged in desire for the gathering of Friends 
 to sit every one under his vine, and under his fig-tree, where 
 none could make them afraid ; and I repeated a considerable 
 portion of Job Scott's poetic effusion, when " quietness as a 
 canopy covered his mind." It was to me a heavenly strength- 
 ening and comfortable meeting. May the little children be 
 encouraged ! 
 
 26th. Have been confined mostly at home by bodily weak- 
 ness, near two weeks past, except attending our meetings in 
 course. On first-day last had a good meeting, and doctrine 
 flowed in channels unobstructed. On second-day, several 
 Friends from the city attended a conference of our members, 
 and a free, open, friendly opportunity it was. Divers matters 
 relative to their tried state were opened and attended to, and 
 the cementing influence of gospel love was felt to flow among 
 us. To-day was our monthly meeting, and it Avas a favoured, 
 heavenly one. No jar, no discord ; all harmony, quietness, 
 and love. Many Friends from neighbouring meetings attend- 
 ed, and a large number from the city presented requests to 
 be acknowledged as our members, whom we accepted ; and 
 they are added to the number that compose the indulged 
 meeting held there. 
 
 My feelings of gratitude and tender sympathy were lively 
 and melting thus to see of the travail of my soul, and to feel 
 satisfied "in the renewed evidence that the work is the 
 Lord's," and that he is thus leading us about, and instructing 
 us, and opening the way for our quiet enjoyment of the bene- 
 fits and privileges of religious fellowship and communion. 
 
Chap. XII.] JOURNAL OF .JOHN COMLY. 341 
 
 Many minds deeply felt the precion.sness of the unity of the 
 brethren, and that in our quiet peaceful retreat from scenes 
 of contention and conflict, we feel the protecting care and 
 superintendence of the Shepherd of Israel to be round about 
 and over us. 
 
 28th. Went over the river and attended Westfield meetincr, 
 "which to me was a favoured season. My mind was led into 
 sympathy with the suffering seed, and therein an opening to 
 address them in the language of encouragement. 
 
 29th. Attended a large conference at Mount Holly, on the 
 subject of that monthly meeting's difficulties, in which much 
 unanimity prevailed. I anticipate that many Friends will, in 
 attending to their exercises on the important movements in 
 society, become profitably baptized into increasing religious 
 weight and feeling. May the Lord carry on and prosper his 
 great work of reformation in the hearts of men. 
 
 Seventh month 1st. — Attended the meetings held at Car- 
 penter's Hall, both morning and afternoon, which Avere good 
 comfortable meetings. In the latter, I felt called to labour 
 in testimony fo^ the edification of the poor in spirit. 
 
 Tenth month 1st. — I attended Buckingham monthly meet- 
 ing, which was divinely favoured. Love and unity prevailed, 
 and openness, candour, and harmony were felt and enjoyed. 
 Next day, accompanied by my friend William Taylor, rode to 
 Crosswicks and attended monthly meeting there, which was 
 a painful one. Eeturned home in the evening, much fatigued 
 in body and mind. 
 
 13th. The large committee appointed in sixth month last 
 met in Philadelphia, in order to form a report to lay before 
 the proposed approaching Yearly Meeting. The state of 
 society generally so far as the labours of the committee have 
 extended was reported, and an evidence was felt that the 
 Shepherd of Israel is mindful of his flock and family in this 
 trying season. The next day, being first-day, meetings for 
 worship were held, which were instructive favoured seasons. 
 Thomas Wetherald, a minister from Washington, attended, 
 and had very extensive service therein. 
 
 15th. The Yearly Meeting opened. Women Friends occu- 
 pied Green-street meeting-house, and it was well filled. Men 
 
342 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 Friends, numbering from fifteen to eighteen hundred, met in 
 a temporary building that had been erected on neighbouring 
 ground for present accommodation, (all the other meeting- 
 houses in the city being retained in the possession of the 
 opposite party.) 
 
 Thomas Wetherald produced a certificate from Alexandria 
 monthly meeting, having particular reference to his attending 
 this Yearly Meeting. His company was peculiarly acceptable 
 to this large meeting, and his services and gospel labours edi- 
 fying and encouraging. Many minds were deeply baptized 
 into a living traA'ail for the prosperity of the blessed cause of 
 Truth and peace, for which we have thus suffered the loss of 
 houses and accommodations, and the countenance and appro- 
 bation of many of our former Friends. To conduct the busi- 
 ness of the present Yearly Meeting, under the influence of the 
 Spirit of Truth and the harmony of the gospel, was the concern 
 of many minds, who thus came together under circumstances 
 and feelings very different from those which prevailed at the 
 Yearly Meeting in fourth month last. 
 
 Representatives appointed by five of the quarterly meetings 
 attended this. Much business and many weighty subjects 
 engaged the attention of Friends during the several sessions 
 of this meetino;. A lar2;e committee of men and women 
 Friends were appointed to represent the Yearly Meeting in 
 its recess, to give attention to cases of trial among Friends, 
 arising from difficulties that appear to be in the way of making 
 a quiet retreat from scenes of disorder and disunity. 
 
 An epistle to Friends of Baltimore Yearly Meeting was 
 issued. Also an epistle* addressed to our quarterly, monthly, 
 and preparative meetings, which may stand as a monument 
 of the temper, feelings, and disposition of the body that issued 
 it, and may convey to distant nations, and families, and in- 
 quiring minds, some ideas of the true character of Friends at 
 this time. Several thousands were directed to be printed for 
 distribution. We thus have^given evidence of the innocence 
 and uprightness of our cause, in that we are not afraid to 
 appear before the public, nor are we disposed to do any thing 
 
 * See Appendix. 
 
Chap. XII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 343 
 
 in secret, as though we -were a.shamed or afraid of the light, 
 or the scrutiny of candid minds. It is a day, in -which all- 
 powerful Truth is on its way, and the minds of thousands are 
 preparing for its reception and progressive discoveries. 
 
 This Yearly Meeting having been convened under trying 
 circumstances, and as a supplement or extra session of that 
 held in fourth month last, wherein the spirit of domination 
 usurped the government of the body, and as Friends had now, 
 under Divine favour, resumed their privileges and commenced 
 a reorganization, it became a subject of concern to consider 
 of a proper time to hold the next regular Yearly Meeting of 
 Friends in this city, which resulted in concluding that it would 
 settle most easy on the minds of Friends generally, that this 
 meeting should adjourn to meet again, if permitted, on the 
 second second-day in fourth month next. 
 
 About the middle of the week, a proposal was offered to the 
 meeting, whether it might not be right for the ministers and 
 elders present to meet together in the capacity of a Y^early 
 Meeting of ministers and elders, thus to afford an opportunity 
 for them to feel together as respects that department of 
 society in its stripped and tried state, and to promote the 
 reorganization of that meeting. This proposal was united 
 with, and a meeting appointed for that purpose, which Avas 
 held to the tendering and contriting of many minds. Various 
 interesting subjects peculiarly belonging to this part of society 
 were opened and considered, and a memorable season was 
 mercifully afforded us together, bowing our spirits in deep 
 humility and prostration before Him who is thus mindful of 
 his afflicted seed, and whose love cemented our hearts together 
 in fellowship and peace. 
 
 The comina; together of Friends at this time, in accordance 
 with the recommendation of the epistle issued from the con- 
 ference in the sixth month last, and the reorganization of the 
 Yearly Meeting on its ancient and proper principles, will form 
 a very important epoch in the history of the Society of Friends, 
 and, if rightly organized, Avill Be as an "ensign to the nations," 
 showing to others, that when corruption has entered and ob- 
 structed the channels of the purest system of Christian com- 
 munion, a way will be opened to the "oppressed to go free;" 
 
344 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 and that those who value religious liberty above selfish ease 
 and servile compliance with arbitrary requisitions, may, under 
 the direction of the Divine wisdom, be the means of opening 
 the way for posterity to escape that dark state of apostasy 
 which former ages were enveloped in, by yielding to the 
 domination of clerical intolerance, aided by the sword of the 
 civil power. 
 
 That we live in an age of free inquiry, and in a land of civil 
 and religious liberty, is cause of thankfulness to the great 
 Disposer of events, and demands the sacrifice of our whole 
 hearts to his service. That so large a number of Friends, as 
 of one heart and one mind, should thus assemble together, 
 and with feelings of brotherly love and harmony wait for 
 Divine guidance and direction, was a circumstance calculated 
 to awaken and excite emotions of humble gratitude and reve- 
 rence, toward the Shepherd of Israel who led Joseph like a 
 flock; and an evidence was afibrded to many minds that 
 he is still mercifully disposed to lead Joseph (the afflicted 
 seed, hated, despised, sold, and oppressed by the same spirit 
 that actuated the sons of Jacob formerly) like a flock, and to 
 shine forth from his dwelling between the cherubims of his 
 glory. 
 
 Eleventh month 7th. — Abington quarterly meeting of minis- 
 ters and elders, held at Horsham. Though a rainy morning, 
 was attended by a considerable number of men and women 
 Friends, with our highly valued friend Edward Stabler, from 
 Alexandria. He had some acceptable service among us, and 
 the meeting was a quiet, favoured opportunity. Oh ! how com- 
 fortable again to meet together as brethren and sisters in har- 
 mony and peace, and to our mutual edification and satisfac- 
 tion. On the 8th the general quarterly meeting was largely 
 attended. At the request of our dear friend Edward Stabler, 
 the shutters were opened, and he was favoured to preach the 
 gospel in a remarkably clear, convincing, and edifying com- 
 munication, tending to baptize into a living sense of Divine 
 goodness and mercy. Friends rejoiced together in the enjoy- 
 ment of a very comfortable quarterly meeting, in which the 
 
Chap. XIT.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 345 
 
 feelings of brotherly love cemented us together in the unity 
 of the one spirit ; and although the meeting sat long, much 
 patience and quietude prevailed. No clash, no jar, no discord 
 appeared. The epistle and extracts from our late Yearly 
 Meeting were read, and a solemnity attended that was cause 
 of thankfulness. 
 
 On second-day, the 12th, attended Concord quarterly meet- 
 ing of ministers and elders, which was small, but a favoui*ed 
 melting season. The general quarterly meeting next day was 
 large, though the weather was unfavourable. The separation 
 having taken place in their monthly meetings. Friends met 
 together in unity and quiet. The extracts and epistle from 
 our late Yearly Meeting were read, and the meeting was 
 solemnized and baptized into a lively exercise for the promo- 
 tion of the blessed cause of Truth and reformation. 
 
 It was an edifying, strengthening, cementing season, in which 
 brotherly love and mutual feelings of the unity of the Spirit, 
 and of kindness and harmony, pervaded the minds of Friends. 
 Our friend Edward Stabler attended these meetings, and was 
 lively and acceptable in communication. The contrast of feel- 
 ing and conduct between this quarterly meeting and the one 
 held at Concord in ninth month last, was striking, and demon- 
 strative of the rectitude of the measure that Friends have 
 adopted. An evidence is thus afforded that our heavenly 
 Shepherd is mindful of his people, and graciously disposed still 
 to lead "Joseph like a flock." May we gratefully commemo- 
 rate his gracious dealings with us, and while we are permitted 
 to enjoy the beams of his love, oh ! may we remember them 
 that are yet in bonds, in captivity to the very spirit of that 
 king which arose and knew not Joseph. 
 
 14th. I attended meeting at Carpenter's court in Philadel- 
 phia, with my dear friend John Mott. He had acceptable and 
 appropriate service therein, and the meeting ended with a 
 savour of life. 
 
 The general committee met on the 15th in Philadelphia, and 
 some interesting views were opened relating to the state of 
 Friends in various places, exciting near sympathy and fellow- 
 feeling with them in their close trials, particularly where the 
 separation has not yet been effected. A way appeared to be 
 
346 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 gradually opening for this measure, and the minds of Friends 
 preparing therefor. 
 
 Eleventh month 18th. — At home. A favoured open time at 
 our own meeting. It is comfortable to feel ourselves in the 
 bosom of our friends — as the Shunamite of old, who said, "I 
 dwell among my own people." In the afternoon set off again 
 to visit the tried Friends in Jersey. Was kindly received and 
 lodged by my worthy friends Benjamin Warrington and wife. 
 Next day, with others of the committee, was at a conference 
 of Friends at Moorestown, which was largely attended by the 
 members, and was an interesting opportunity. Friends were 
 encouraged to abide in the lamb-like meekness and patience, 
 and to avoid occasions of collision and strife ; to live down 
 contention and calumnies, rather than indulge in disputation 
 and argument. 
 
 On the 20th attended an adjourned monthly meeting of 
 Friends at Evesham ; and next day a conference at Upper 
 Evesham. Some lively-spirited Friends at this meeting, but 
 they are bowed down with the weight of the trials now brought 
 upon them. Our sympathy was warmly excited toward them, 
 and the opportunity appeared seasonable and salutary. Spent 
 part of the evening with dear old Esther Hunt and daughter, 
 which was a comfortable and instructive opportunity to me. 
 Next day attended Chester preparative meeting. In the latter 
 part it was evident the mild feelings of brotherly love were 
 wanting. 'Tis high time they were separated. 
 
 In the vision of Isaac Child he saw a furnace, the burning 
 of which was like a mighty lime-kiln. In it the candlesticks 
 of silver, brass, and iron were cast, and all that came out were 
 pure gold, and went up to the top of the mountain rejoicing. 
 Now is the trial of the metal, or spirit and temper of many high 
 professors ; the furnace is set ; the burning of a fierce and 
 fiery zeal is consuming every thing but the pure gold of the 
 kingdom — the nature and spirit of the Lamb. Oh ! may the 
 little children of the kingdom abide in patience through all 
 their fiery tribulations, so shall they come forth as gold tried 
 in the fire, and purified seven times. Amen ! 
 
Chap. XII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 347 
 
 At our monthly meeting, the 27th of eleventh month, Friends 
 granted me a minute of approbation to make a religious visit 
 in the state of New Jersey, as way may open. This concern 
 has been for some time opening to my view, but the difficulties 
 that party spirit threw in the way of such movements often 
 present discouragement to an attempt to visit the seed in this 
 way, though at times the language is, "Fear not." 
 
 Eleventh month 29th. — Attended Bucks quarterly meet- 
 ing, held at Middletown. It was a full meeting, so that addi- 
 tional seats were brought in, and remarkably quiet and solemn. 
 J. Mott had acceptable service, and the business was managed 
 in the peaceable spirit of brotherly love and harmony. The 
 extracts and epistle were read, and the youth affectionately 
 addressed, as well as those of riper years. Gratitude flowed on 
 the occasion, in contrasting this favoured united meeting of 
 Friends with many that preceded it prior to the separation, 
 affording evidence that the concern is right. May fruits an- 
 swerable to such favours be manifested among us. 
 
 Twelfth month 5th. — At our week-day meeting, soon after 
 its settlement, a Friend remarked the length of time in gather- 
 ing, and that it had disturbed his quiet. He also adverted to 
 the smallness of the number met, though no sickness existed 
 in the neighbourhood, and said that every effect had its cause, 
 and if we would search for the cause of the fewness of the 
 number that attend our week-day meeting, we might find it 
 nearer home than many are aware of; that the present was a 
 smaller meeting than he had ever attended here, showing evi- 
 dently that it was on the decline. 
 
 The morning was rainy and the roads muddy. Several 
 Friends who usually attend were from home, and some others 
 unwell, nevertheless about forty men and nearly as many wo- 
 men were present, and to some of us it was- a good meeting, 
 thoucrh otherwise silent. The remarks of the Friend occasioned 
 a train of reflections on the human character, and the great 
 liability we are exposed to of judging of others according to 
 the temper and feelings of our own minds. There is a charity 
 that "thinketh no evil," and when the mind is under its influ- 
 
348 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 ence, it feels no disposition to find fault with others. It is a 
 valuable attainment in youth to gain a full conquest over the 
 impatience and fretfulness of animal nature ; then, as age ad- 
 vances, calmness and equanimity of feeling, sweetened by Di- 
 vine love, or that "charity that sufi'ereth long and is kind," 
 induce us to view the actions of others with complacency, and 
 to cast a vail over their infirmities and failings, or to commi- 
 serate their trials, and sympathize with them in their afflictions 
 and difficulties. 
 
 Twelfth month 9th. — Having passed through various prov- 
 ing seasons for some time past, even so that my mind often 
 seemed closed up from common social converse, finding it 
 safer and more congenial to the deep exercise under which I 
 travailed, to possess myself in patient quietude, than to burst 
 the bonds that lay upon me, in the prospect of prosecuting a 
 journey into Salem quarterly meeting limits, I this afternoon 
 left home and went to the city, under a weight of exercise, not 
 knowing how I might be directed. There found my friend 
 Isaac Townsend, who encouraged my proceeding, and the next 
 .morning, accompanied by my friend Charles Townsend, crossed 
 the river, and went to Woodbury. 
 
 To visit in gospel love the meetings of Friends at this awful 
 period of the shaking of the earth and the heavens, requires 
 deep feeling after the stepping-stones as mentioned by John 
 Woolman. But in carefully watching the openings of Truth, 
 there is yet a way made in the deep, and a pathway in the 
 mighty waters. 
 
 On the 11th had a very satisfactory meeting at Upper Green- 
 wich, and although it was court time at Woodbury, and divers 
 Friends summoned on juries, yet the judges manifested their 
 friendly disposition by releasing some of them, particularly 
 our friend George Craft, that he might be at liberty to accom- 
 pany and assist us in the further prosecution of the visit. 
 Next morning attended Mulica Hill meeting. Notice having 
 been spread, it was a large and solemn meeting. No opposing 
 spirits were felt or feared. Doctrine and counsel flowed freely, 
 and appeared to be freely received. Dined at Chalkley Moore's, 
 and an interesting company of young people and others came 
 in after dinner, when some entertaining and instructive con- 
 
Chap. XII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 349 
 
 versation ensued, in which my exercised mind enjoyed again 
 the freedom that Truth gives, when the prison doors are set 
 open and the oppressed are restored to liberty. Returned to 
 William Cooper's to lodge, and next day attended week-day 
 meeting at Woodbury. I was led to illustrate and apply the 
 Pool of Bethesda, and the healing of the impotent man there, 
 as also of the cripple at the Beautiful gate of the temple, by 
 the energy of the same Divine power. The circumstance also 
 of the release and use of the ass's colt that had been tied where 
 Uvo ivays met, was opened, with the address to some present : 
 "Loose him, the Lord hath need of him." Returned to the 
 city this evening, and attended the meeting of the general 
 committee next day, in which the feelings of tender sympathy 
 toward our tried, afflicted friends in various places induced 
 the appointment of committees to visit and assist them in their 
 difficulties. Next day rode with my friend G. C. to Thomas 
 Davis's, at Pilesgrove, and on first-day, the 16th, attended 
 meeting there, which was large, quiet, and favoured, and 
 Friends were edified together. 
 
 17th. Had an appointed meeting at Upper Penn's Neck. 
 It was a remarkably quiet, solemn meeting, wherein Elisha 
 Dawson had acceptable service before I arose, and the meeting 
 ended well. 
 
 18th. Attended an appointed meeting at Salem, which was 
 a large gathering, and some important doctrines were opened 
 and enlarged upon. A Methodist minister was there who has 
 been much opposed to Friends, but after meeting he was heard 
 to say that he had no fault to find with the communication. 
 Friends in this place are very closely tried. 
 
 19th. The morning was spent in writing and visiting an 
 afflicted Friend, who had been long confined to her house. It 
 was an opportunity in company with Thomas and Esther Da- 
 vis, that some of us rejoiced in being renewedly comforted to- 
 gether, and the word of consolation flowed as a stream. In 
 the afternoon was at a conference of Friends at Salem, and 
 was thankful in observing the pacific disposition prevailing 
 amongst them. Many of the dear young people appeared se- 
 rious and deeply interested, as well as closely united with 
 Friends. May Heaven preserve and protect them. In the 
 
350 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 evening liad an interesting social opportunity with a large 
 number of Friends. Such is the love and harmony manifest 
 among Friends here, that the preciousness of "brethren dwell- 
 ing together in unity" is practically illustrated, and particu- 
 larly so since these days of trial and perplexity. 
 
 20th. Attended week-day meeting at Alloways Creek. It 
 was a favoured season and satisfactory. At the close a person 
 advanced forward to speak to us, and with apparent diffidence 
 said he wished to ask a question. The way being open, he was 
 encouraged to propose it, which he did, thus addressing him- 
 self to me: "Do you believe that Christ was the son of Joseph 
 or the son of God?" I answered: "The latter undoubtedly. 
 I never had a doubt of the Divinity of Christ. I have no idea 
 of a Christ that is the son of Joseph." He replied: "Then 
 you believe that we have access to God through his blood, do 
 you?" "Certainly," said I. "Very well," said he, "lam fully 
 satisfied." He was called a Methodist minister, and when he 
 went out he told others he was perfectly satisfied. Whatever 
 external or material ideas he attached to the terms of his ques- 
 tions, the answers were given with reference to the spirituality 
 of Christ, and the blood that cleanseth from all sin, which 
 cannot be material blood, because matter cannot cleanse spirit, 
 and the soul that is defiled by sin needs a spiritual cleansing, 
 through which it finds access to God. 
 
 21st. Went to Greenwich, and had a meeting in a private 
 house. About a hundred persons assembled, and it was a so- 
 lemn and instructive season. The heavenly dew descended, 
 and the few Friends who attended with others were satisfied 
 with the opportunity. Had an evening meeting at Bridgeton 
 in the court-house. No Friends live in this town, and consi- 
 derable stir prevails among the inhabitants in relation to reli- 
 gious controversy. Truth never shrinks from investigation, 
 and the sincere inquirers after it may be induced to turn from 
 all the noises and tumults that are in the outward court, and 
 seek in the inner temple of their own hearts, where they will 
 find a foundation that standeth sure. 
 
 This meeting was large and crowded, and more stillness and 
 quietude prevailed than I have usually found on like occasions 
 in court-houses. E. Dawson had considerable service, but my 
 
Chap. XII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN C0:MLY. S51 
 
 share of the labour was more laborious than at some former 
 meetings. Perhaps the stepping-stones might have been bet- 
 ter attended to. Divers of the inhabitants expressed their 
 satisfaction with the meeting, and a hope is felt that some 
 good will grow out of it, if it be only to arrest the current of 
 prejudice which is here felt against Friends. 
 
 Twelfth month 22d. — This morning had a meeting at Mill- 
 ville, and it was a remarkable, quiet, solemn one, being made 
 up of Methodists, and workmen from the glass factory, &c. in 
 the village. Doctrine and counsel flowed freely in the love of 
 the everlasting gospel, and we left them with near feelings of 
 love and good-will, in the hope that Heaven will bless its own 
 work, and instruct the little children in the saving truths of 
 the kingdom. Went this afternoon to Port Elizabeth, and 
 were welcomed by our kind and worthy friends Isaac Town- 
 send and family. 
 
 23d. Attended Maurice River meeting. Information hav- 
 ing been spread, a great assemblage of people of various re- 
 ligious denominations attended, to whom the doctrines of the 
 gospel were opened in the demonstration of the Spirit, at 
 least to some minds. It was, to those who had ears to hear, 
 a meeting not soon to be forgotten ; but whether remembered 
 or not, if the manifestation of the Spirit through that me- 
 dium be properly attended to, it will be profitable to the will- 
 ing and obedient, and they will feed upon the good of that 
 heavenly land which was opened to their view. 
 
 The meeting held till near two o'clock, but no uneasiness 
 or restlessness appeared, though much crowded. It was re- 
 marked as the largest meeting had there for many years. 
 Such a disposition is excited by the present religious agi- 
 tation, that people are disposed to see and hear and judge for 
 themselves ; and all the denunciations of zealots are only the 
 incentives, with persons of independent, unprejudiced minds, 
 to investigate and judge for themselves of what is right. 
 Light is evidently rising and spreading in this land, and how- 
 ever the heathen may rage, the powers of darkness associate 
 themselves or combine together, and the kings of the earthly, 
 carnal-minded professors take counsel together against the 
 Lord and against his Anointed — yet shall they be broken to 
 
J ■ 
 
 352 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1827. 
 
 pieces like a potter's vessel, and the Truth shall shine brighter 
 and brighter, as faithfulness becomes more and more the 
 girdle of those who judge not after the sight of the eye, nor 
 reprove after the hearing of the ear. 
 
 This evening I was taken unwell, with some symptoms of 
 bilious colic, so that we lay by two days at the house of our 
 very kind friends Isaac and Hannah Townsend. This intro- 
 duced an acquaintance with divers worthy Friends, particu- 
 larly of the younger class, who called to see me while under 
 this privation. 
 
 But though confined in body, my mind was travailing in ex- 
 ercise and concern for the welfare of my fellow-creatures, 
 and particularly for my fellow-professors of the Society of 
 Friends. As many Friends are thoughtful how they will be 
 able to give a true account of the state of society, in answer 
 to the Queries to be sent to our approaching Yearly Meeting, 
 unless they state the numbers that have left the society and 
 set up separate meetings, and therefore are excluded from be- 
 ing taken into account — this subject occupied my mind, with 
 desires that in all our proceedings, we may lay no bar in the 
 way of their return to us who may have been thus captivated 
 by the spirit of prejudice and delusion. Under this view, I 
 believe it will be most consistent with the peaceable spirit of 
 the Lamb, to make no records against them at present ; but 
 in order that well-concerned Friends may be clear in their 
 answers to the Queries, I suggested to Friends the propriety 
 of a minute accompanying the reports, stating that <■<■ A sepa- 
 ration having taken place in the monthly meeting, the follow- 
 ing answers are adapted to the state of the meeting com- 
 prising about two-thirds [or as the proportion may be] of the 
 members who heretofore constituted this meeting." 
 
 This proposal I found was acceptable to divers Friends, 
 and appeared to comprehend all that was needful, to show that 
 Friends no longer consider themselves accountable or answer- 
 able for the conduct of those who have left their communion ; 
 and therefore that the process of disownment need not be 
 adopted by Friends. 
 
 Twelfth month 26th. — Set out this forenoon, and travelled 
 fifty miles to John Ward's, near Philadelphia. Was much 
 
Chap. XII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 353 
 
 fatigued by the journey, being yet weak, though recovering. 
 Entered into a feeling of near sympathy with Friends in this 
 neighbourhood and Iladdonfield, now suffering under the 
 effects of that spirit which of okl wouhl not let Israel go, that 
 they might serve the Lord in peace. 
 
 27th. Awoke early. — It opened to my view as a duty to 
 have a public meeting for the inhabitants of the place to- 
 morrow, and to see Friends to-day by themselves. This was 
 communicated to Friends, who on making the proposal to 
 some of the heads of the meeting, a plain, positive refusal of 
 our occupying the meeting-house was made. A public school- 
 house, near by, was offered and accepted for the purpose, and 
 notice given of the meeting. Remembering that " the ser- 
 vant of Christ must not strive, but be temperate in all 
 things," it settled easy on the minds of Friends to let it be 
 so, in the hope that some good would grow out of it, as we 
 keep in the meekness and patience of the Lamb. 
 
 In the afternoon, had a favoured opportunity with a few 
 Friends at John Ward's, and next day, still wet and rainy in 
 the morning, had the meeting at the school-house. It was 
 small, but a precious season of instruction. Several Friends 
 from the city met us here, whom I accompanied on their re- 
 turn. Next day returned home to my dear family, after an 
 absence of near three weeks, and found all well, producing 
 the feeling of grateful acknowledgment to the Shepherd of 
 Israel for his watchful care over me and them, and thus pre- 
 serving us so as again to rejoice in the feelings of affection 
 and love. May we rightly number and value the privileges 
 and favours we enjoy. 
 
 30th. Went with my children to Philadelphia, to attend an 
 evening meeting appointed by J. Moore at Green street, 
 which was very large — more than could get seats in the 
 house. It was a satisfactory season, and may be a blessing 
 to many, if rightly improved. Friends in the city appear to 
 be moving in concern for the promotion of the cause of Truth 
 and righteousness in the earth ; and these evening meetings 
 (this being the third) appear to have been owned and blessed. 
 They afford an opportunity for many to come, see, and hear, 
 and feel for themselves ; and the Nicodemuses of the present 
 23 
 
354 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 day may be instructed further in the spirituality of the gos- 
 pel dispensation by these opportunities. Oh ! that Friends 
 everywhere may be faithful to the requirings of Truth, as a 
 reasonable return for th'O great favour and deliverance 
 wrought for them by a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, 
 leading them by a way that a year ago they knew nor saw 
 not, but since marvellously opened before them, as through a 
 Red Sea — so that they have escaped the oppression that was 
 ready to swallow them up, and many are now sitting under 
 their own vine and fig-tree, where none can make them afraid. 
 Truly these may say, " What shall we render unto the Lord 
 for all his benefits toward us ?" 
 
 First month 6th, 1828. — Attended Middletown meeting, 
 wherein we were favoured together in the evidence of Divine 
 love, and renewed encouragement w^as vouchsafed to the seek- 
 ing, wrestling seed. 
 
 8th. Have had some expectation of going again into New 
 Jersey to-day, but my bodily powers, with the very heavy 
 travelling, seemed to render it impracticable, so postponed it, 
 and passed the week under various exercises, particularly in 
 deep sympathy with Friends in Ohio and Indiana, as, by a 
 letter received, their suiferings and difficulties are described 
 as greater than ours have been. 
 
 16th. Attended the monthly meeting of Friends at Car- 
 penter's Hall, which was exercising. A proposal respecting 
 their having a quarterly meeting established in the city, 
 claimed the attention of the meeting, and a committee was 
 appointed to unite with like committees from the other meet- 
 ings. But to me it was an exercising subject. Oh ! that 
 they had patience. Marvellous have been the dealings of 
 heavenly Goodness toward them in opening a door of escape 
 from oppression, and so far leading them about and instruct- 
 ing them. Now, while young and tender, I feel for their 
 safety and strength, and do verily believe quietness and pa- 
 tience and thankfulness would more conduce toward it, than 
 hurrying forward to undertake the responsibility of holding a 
 quarterly meeting. 
 
 17th. Attended Green-street monthly meeting. I fear 
 Friends are sliding too much into the state of a people for- 
 
Chap. XIL] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 355 
 
 merly, who, after a signal and marvellous deliverance, "sang 
 his praise, but soon forgat his works." Oh ! that all might 
 feel themselves as little children. This is the state in which 
 Israel is called out of Egypt and owned as a son. But how 
 many allurements "call them," how human wisdom is trans- 
 formed into the resemblance of " the wisdom from above ;" so 
 for want of deep humility and patient abiding under the l)ap- 
 tisms of the Holy Spirit, there is danger of some new growth 
 springing up, that, like the grasshoppers seen by Amos of old, 
 will devour the second growth of greenness after the king's 
 mowings. In a view of this awful destructive work, the 
 mourners in Zion may yet have to intercede, "Cease, Lord 
 God, we beseech thee ! By whom shall Jacob arise, for he is 
 small?" 
 
 On the 18th the general committee met. Among other 
 subjects that occupied the attention of Friends, was one in 
 which considerable zeal was displayed, for collecting an histori- 
 cal account of facts that have occurred during the awful con- 
 flict of the separation. This was at first urged as a duty 
 toward our distant friends and the public, who are in want of 
 information, it was stated, respecting the cause and necessity 
 for the separation. Watching carefully the progress of this 
 zeal, which at length drew to the point of separating a com- 
 mittee to collect such materials, and observing the drift of the 
 concern to be too much in the mixture of defending our cause 
 by such exertions, I observed that hitherto a way had been 
 marvellously opened for us, evidently by Divine interposition ; 
 that our cause had been pleaded by Heaven, and the hearts of 
 thousands had been opened toward us by the immediate ope- 
 ration of the convictive evidence of Truth ; and in less than a 
 year, far beyond all human calculation and anticipation, the 
 concern had spread and prevailed, and the minds of Friends 
 become calm and settled, in the evidence of the rectitude of 
 our concern for peace and gospel privileges. And noiv, after 
 all this, shall we begin to write, and print, and publish to the 
 world, as a body, a statement of the intolerance and oppres- 
 sion that have been suffered by us? — Avhen the same fruits 
 of religious bigotry are spreading far and wide. Shall we 
 now, as a society, become historians, in defence of a cause 
 
356 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 thus signally owned and protected by Heaven ? If individuals 
 feel it a duty to write, let them be encouraged to faithfulness ; 
 if they write on their own concern and responsibility, society 
 will not be accountable. Here we may safely leave all anxiety 
 about spreading information of facts that have transpired. 
 Here we may repose in confidence that He who has his way in 
 the deep, in clouds, and even in thick darkness, will make a 
 way for us, even through mighty waters ; and we shall know, 
 indeed, that the " Lord on high (exalted in our own souls) is 
 mightier than the noise of many waters, yea, than the mighty 
 waves of the sea." 
 
 26th. Set out with James Walton to attend a conference to 
 be held at Cain. Arrived near evening at George Massey's, 
 where we stayed the night. Next morning the conference 
 was attended by a large number of Friends, and much har- 
 mony prevailed. Notwithstanding the difficulties of travelling, 
 many Friends from different and distant meetings, actuated 
 by Christian sympathy, assembled here, and were helpful to 
 Friends in their tried situation : " Behold how good and how 
 pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity." And 
 surely, in times like these, when many are wounded in the 
 house of those who have been their friends, it is consoling to 
 feel this unity to be "like precious ointment." In the after- 
 noon rode thirty-five miles to Philadelphia, and next morning, 
 the 27th, by exertions, reached our own monthly meeting. 
 Samuel Blackfan and Edward Hicks attended it and had 
 acceptable service, and the business was accomplished in har- 
 mony and peace. 
 
 This morning my spirit was oppressed with sadness on 
 account of a once dear friend who continues to denounce me 
 by name in public meetings. Even but yesterday, at his own 
 monthly meeting, I am told he vented his feelings against me. 
 Oh how I pity him ! Deluded and blinded by a bitter spirit, 
 like the star that John saw fall from heaven, called Worm- 
 wood, by which the waters were made bitter, and many men 
 died of those bitter waters. Under this exercise on account 
 of that dear soul, my mind was introduced into fervent sup- 
 plication : Father, forgive him, for surely he knows not what 
 he does. 
 
Chap. XII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 357 
 
 Second month 1st. — Went again to the city to meet a com- 
 mittee on preparing an Address to Friends of the Western 
 country. Abundantly convinced that we are chikh-en in ex- 
 perience and stability. Oh ! that we were rightly sensil)le of 
 it. Next day attended the general committee. Saw the 
 need of individual faithfulness to allotted duty — much more 
 profitable than a dependence on others, or on society, even in 
 addressing letters to Friends at a distance. How few epistles 
 written by individuals to meetings or Friends abroad; and 
 why less of this godly care than formerly ? Is it because of 
 a custom of making such communications a society concern ? 
 This may require examination and improvement. 
 
 3d. Friends opened their new meeting-house on Cherry 
 street. It was a large, quiet, and good meeting. To me it 
 appeared desirable that solemn silence might reign, but seve- 
 ral communications occupied most of the time, and the meet- 
 ing closed under a comfortable covering of quietness. 
 
 Fourth month 12th. — Yearly Meeting of ministers and elders 
 met. Elias Hicks and Edward Stabler both acceptably attended 
 this meeting. About one hundred and twenty or upwards 
 of each sex were present, and we were comforted together. 
 Vastly different from the meeting twelve months ago of this 
 class of members. Surely we are under great obligations to 
 our Deliverer for such unmerited mercies. 
 
 1.3th. A very rainy, stormy day, and yet the meeting- 
 house at Cherry street was full to overflowing. Dear old Elias 
 Hicks was there, and feelingly addressed the quiet, attentive 
 assembly. 
 
 On second-day. Yearly Meeting for business opened. About 
 twelve hundred and fifty men and sixteen hundred women 
 Friends were said to be in attendance, notwithstanding it was 
 outwardly a time of much rain and snow. 
 
 At this annual meeting much solemnity and quietude pre- 
 vailed, especially among the youth. Many precious cement- 
 ing seasons were vouchsafed us, and the business was con- 
 ducted and resulted in harmony and brotherly kindness. An 
 epistle from Baltimore Yearly Meeting of tenth month last, 
 in answer to ours, was received and read among us to satis- 
 faction ; peculiarly so, inasmuch as our being recognised by 
 
858 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 them was strengthening and encouraging to us. To our hea- 
 venly Benefactor be all the praise. He is still opening the 
 way for our enlargement, and carrying on his own work by 
 ways and means agreeable to his unsearchable wisdom and 
 communicative goodness. , 
 
 A committee of men and women Friends was appointed to 
 advise and assist om* members as occasion may require during 
 the recess of the Yearly Meeting. This has been found 
 peculiarly useful to Friends in the many painful scenes of 
 trial and conflict attending the separation, during the past 
 year, and a blessing appears to have rested on their labours. 
 Epistles were agreed to be forwarded to Baltimore and New 
 York Yearly Meetings, and a circular one* to be sent to all 
 the other Yearly Meetings on this continent, and to London. 
 This measure was adopted under the persuasion that we are 
 the Yearly Meeting of Friends held at Philadelphia, and that 
 our duty, as such, was to address our distant brethren as here- 
 tofore. An epistle to our quarterly, monthly, and particular 
 meetings was also issued. Philadelphia quarter was agreed 
 again to be established, and the meeting closed on sixth-day 
 evening with calmness and peace. 
 
 Fifth month 8th. — Our quarterly meeting at Horsham — very 
 large — pleasant, sunshiny weather ; very different from the 
 storm of rain, and the awful storm of conflicting passions, 
 feelings, and principles, witnessed in the same house a year 
 ago. The meeting was reminded of the circumstance, and our 
 attention called to a deep searching of heart, that we might 
 see whether in life and conversation we are bringing forth 
 fruits of holiness and gratitude, due for the unspeakable pri- 
 vileges now enjoyed of meeting together in quietness and har- 
 mony, while many of our dear friends in various places are 
 still suffering under the confusions and difiiculties attendant 
 on their continued connection Avith their opposing brethren. 
 
 This being the last quarter that Philadelphia Friends expect 
 to meet with us, many of them appeared to feel it as such, 
 expressing their attachment, and their gratitude for having 
 found with us an asylum, when dismay and terror seemed to 
 
 * See Appendix. 
 
Chap. XII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 359 
 
 envelope them, by reason of the trials, the harassing per- 
 plexities to which they were subject, the Yearly Meeting 
 having granted them a quarterly meeting, to be opened in the 
 eighth month next. But to my feelings of propriety it is a 
 premature movement, and I cannot yet see that it will tend 
 to the health and real welfare of society. Its origin, I appre- 
 hend, is too much connected with a view to the ease and con- 
 venience of the creature ; and there may be difficulties arising 
 from the present and even childish state of experience and sta- 
 bility of many dear Friends in the city, that will be grievous 
 in their effects on the peace and harmony of society. Oh ! 
 that they had more patience, until a state of settlement and 
 firmness had been gained. The result may, however, be dif- 
 ferent from my anticipations. 
 
 It is a proverbial saying that "one-half of the world does 
 not know how the other lives." Such may be the case with 
 some of our goodly Friends who live in their ceiled houses, at 
 home, at ease, full and plenty, with every convenience and 
 comfort that wealth can procure. Lydia P. Mott, having for 
 some years resided near Scipio in New York state, informs, 
 that in those newly settled countries, where Friends are fast 
 increasing, and forming new settlements and meetings, the 
 travelling of some active members in attending quarterly and 
 monthly meetings at great distances, visiting Friends in their 
 retired situations as committees, and attending their meetings 
 by appointments, &c., has been known to occupy full one-half 
 of the year. And as a sample of some of the difficulties which 
 these dedicated Friends endure in their travels, she related 
 the following affecting circumstance. Herself and several 
 others were travelling in winter in a sleigh, in bitter cold 
 weather, when they were obliged to seek shelter for the ap- 
 proaching night, and by inquiry heard of a Friend's house 
 some miles distant, which they reached late in the evening, 
 almost perished with the cold and drifting snow. On calling 
 at the door, inquiry was made who they were, before they 
 were invited into the house ; and on finding they were Friends, 
 the lonely woman of the house let them in, but had no candle, 
 and but little fire. The wood was mostly covered up by a 
 deep snow that had lately fallen. Her husband had been 
 
860 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 gone for some time to a distant part of the country on busi- 
 ness, and left only his tender wife to take care of his stock 
 and family of little children. She, however, welcomed the 
 Friends as well as she could, directed where the barn was, 
 and that they must see to their horses themselves, that they 
 had fodder, &c., while she went out in the snow to cut some 
 more wood to warm the strangers. Having renewed her fire, 
 she then went about preparing some refreshment ; her children 
 being asleep in a bed in one corner of the only room the house 
 contained. After the homely meal was over, she told them 
 she would lodge them as well as she could, but she had no 
 spare bed. She therefore gave up her own bed to two of 
 them ; the other two, by climbing up a step-ladder, obtained a 
 lodging in an open loft, where the snow blew in upon them, 
 but having a buffalo skin with them, they slept till morning 
 without much suffering from the cold ; while the mother reposed 
 with her little children in a kind of truckle-bed on the floor. 
 This woman was educated in a more comfortable manner of 
 life. But such are the necessities of the early settlers of a 
 new country, that they often endure great privations, with a 
 prospect of future benefit to themselves or children. How 
 little Ave consider the difficulties of the early settlers of the 
 soil on which we now reside, comparatively at ease, in fulness 
 and plenty. And yet, did we rightly number our blessings, 
 the privileges thus procured for us should be gratefully re- 
 membered and thankfully estimated. 
 
 Fifth month 15th. — Having used much exertion to forward 
 and arrange my business in order to leave home, my bodily 
 powers became so much exhausted that I found it needful to 
 rest a few days. Having the concurrence of Friends at home 
 with my concern, I this day went to the city in order to prose- 
 cute a family visit to Friends there, had arrangements made, 
 and next day entered on the service in company with my 
 beloved Friends L. M., S. H., and R. M. 
 
 Sixth month 3d. — Went to Crosswicks monthly meeting, 
 to meet my wife and Mary Pike on their return from New 
 York yearly meeting. Several testimonies were borne by 
 strangers present, and the first sitting closed with vocal sup- 
 plication. It was on the whole a good meeting. 
 
Chap. XII.] JOURN.IL OF JOHN COMLT. 361 
 
 In the latter end of the sixth month, Elias Hicks passed 
 through these parts, visiting meetings, on his way toward Ohio. 
 His company and communications were very acceptable. 
 Large meetings gathered, though in the midst of haytime and 
 harvest. It was very satisfactory to have his company and 
 gospel labours, and no doubt much prejudice was removed 
 from the minds of many of other societies who flocked to hear 
 him. 
 
 Seventh month 29th. — At our monthly meeting I opened a 
 prospect of making a religious visit to some parts within New 
 York Yearly Meeting, and some parts of our own. Friends 
 granted me a certificate of their unity with the concern, and 
 thus set me at liberty to attend to it as Truth may open the 
 way. 
 
 Eighth month 5th. — Was opened or reorganized the quarterly 
 meeting of Friends held in Philadelphia. It was very large, 
 and favoured with the evidence of Divine regard. 
 
 12th. Attended Concord quarterly meeting. It was large 
 and favoured, though to my sensation the energy of Divine 
 life is considerably wanting in many among them. Two me- 
 morials were read and directed forward to the Yearly Meeting. 
 Some remarks were made tending to show that love, connected 
 with a concern to promote the cause of Truth and righteous- 
 ness, had been the origin of written memorials or testimonies 
 concerning the deceased. In the early periods of the Society 
 of Friends, these testimonies were frequently written by the 
 relatives or friends of those removed from works to rewards, 
 and were often prefixed to their works when published. Since 
 that time particular religious concern, or the attachment of 
 affection or friendship, has prompted individuals to Avrite; 
 and these simple effusions of love have been read in their 
 meetings, to the comfort and edification of survivors, and 
 being sanctioned and adopted as the testimonies of monthly 
 or quarterly meetings, became the property of society. After 
 the establishment of this order, private religious concern to 
 write memorials was seldom manifest; and those produced 
 by monthly or quarterly meetings being subjected to repeated 
 criticisms, much of the life and instruction they originally 
 contained was destroyed. Thus the memory of the righteous, 
 
362 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 ■which should be preserved by written or printed testimonies, 
 was in danger of being lost. 
 
 In the present momentous effort to regain that liberty of 
 conscience which Truth gives, we may again be set free from 
 the shackles with which we have been trammelled by a gradually 
 ascending hierarchy, even in the Society of Friends. The 
 true liberty of thought, of speech, and of the press, which is 
 entirely distinct from licentiousness, may be again restored and 
 enjoyed, to the advancement of the work of righteousness and 
 of the real happiness of mankind. A way, I trust, is opened, 
 and opening, in which the various and precious gifts and ope- 
 rations of the Spirit may be more freely exercised, and become 
 more eminently useful for the edification of the body in love. 
 Among these gifts I hope will be recognised, acknowledged, 
 and encouraged, a talent for that kind of biography, embracing 
 "memorials concerning deceased Friends that may be profita- 
 ble to survivors," to stimulate and encourage them, especially 
 the youth, to mark or copy the examples of the just and 
 upright, in the full belief that the effect of righteousness is 
 quietness and assurance for ever. 
 
 The subject of having a clear and definite distinction, be- 
 tween such as are acknowledged members of our religious 
 society and those that have left us and associated with the 
 orthodox Friends, coming under consideration, and considera- 
 ble exercise being occasioned thereby in some tender minds, 
 lest under improper personal excitement some may be induced 
 to retaliate disownment for disownments, and thereby not 
 only contradict the testimonies recently published by Friends, 
 but obstruct the progress of that great work of promoting 
 "peace on earth and good-will to men," whereunto we are 
 called. The concern was recommended to the attention of 
 the general committee of the Yearly Meeting, and very fully 
 discussed under the various views of the circumstances with 
 which it is connected. My mind has been much exercised in 
 desire for the peace and harmony of our religious society, that 
 the unity of the body may not be interrupted in our present 
 weak and tried condition ; and under this exercise, I have 
 believed the views of Friends on this subject may be harmo- 
 
Chap. XII.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 363 
 
 nized, if Ave consider tliat all men are free agents, and that 
 we ought to grant to others the same right of choice Avhich 
 we claim for ourselves. Thus, by considering that there are 
 now two organized societies, who call themselves by the name 
 of Friends ; and that each member who has joined the one or 
 the other has only exercised this free agency in making his 
 or her election, and thereby become amenable to one associ- 
 ation only, no regular disownment, or dealing with, as on 
 other occasions, is necessary. Hence the fact of such elec- 
 tion being ascertained, nothing else is wanting but to enter 
 on the records a minute of releasement to such as have with- 
 drawn. Or, where the records are retained by the opposite 
 party, that Friends make out a new list of their members, 
 omitting such as have left them. This would be adopting the 
 excellent rule, or precept of Jesus : " All things whatsoever 
 ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them." 
 How much more comfortable might both societies have been, 
 had our opposing brethren adopted this forbearing. Christian 
 course, instead of all their toil in laying down meetings, and 
 dealing with and disowning Friends, who are not in religious 
 communion with them, nor can in any wise acknowledge their 
 usurped authority. 
 
 Having prepared an essay embracing these views and prin- 
 ciples, I submitted it to the committee, that, if approved by 
 them, it may be spread among Friends for their relief, and 
 for the promotion of harmony and peace among themselves, 
 and with their opposing Friends. I also further suggested 
 the propriety of Friends making distinct and explicit propo- 
 sals to those who have separated from us, of our willingness 
 (where Friends have possession of the property) to make an 
 equitable division and distribution thereof for their accommo- 
 dation, in proportion to the numbers of each who haA^e so made 
 their voluntary election as aforesaid. Thus doing justly and 
 loving mercy toward them, might open the way for again 
 walking humbly together in the fellowship of the One Spirit, 
 which the sincere-hearted of every name, class, society, and 
 nation, who are accepted with God, are brought into. And 
 however unknown or unacquainted with each other externally, 
 or however the mists of prejudice may blind their eyes for a 
 
364 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 season, or estrange tlieir affections from each other, so that 
 they may be separated into tribes, and families, and sects, 
 yet, when washed in the blood or life of the innocent natui'e 
 of the Lamb, and when these scales of prejudice shall fall 
 from their eyes, they will see and rejoice in the harmony of 
 that eternal unity Avhich is centred in God himself, who shall 
 wipe away all tears from their eyes. 
 
 Eighth month 17th. — Left home in order to attend the 
 Western quarterly meeting. Rode to Darby, from whence I 
 was accompanied by my esteemed friend, Halliday Jackson ; 
 and next day attended the select quarterly meeting held at 
 London Grove, which was a favoured opportunity, wherein 
 my concern was for the proper care and encouragement of 
 the children who are under the preparing hand for usefulness 
 in the church. 
 
 The general quarterly meeting was very large ; the house 
 was thronged with an interesting assembly, manifesting in ap- 
 pearance and deportment comfortable evidences of simplicity 
 and plainness, of solemnity and attention during the meeting 
 for worship, in which were divers communications tending to 
 edification and harmony. In the meeting for discipline, the 
 quietude was somewhat interrupted by many going out ; other- 
 wise, it was a solemn, interesting season, wherein Friends were 
 encouraged to faithfulness in occupying their various and seve- 
 ral gifts for usefulness in promoting the work of reformation 
 and vital religion. 
 
 While at London Grove, I visited a once valued friend who 
 has joined himself to the orthodox part of society, but is un- 
 der much trouble and anxiety of mind. He was kind, and 
 seemed desirous of having more conversation on the subjects 
 connected with the division and state of society, than the 
 time then admitted of. He said he had passed many sleep- 
 less nights on the occasion, and that he apprehended a way 
 would have been made for the relief of Friends under op- 
 pression without a separation, if patience had been main- 
 tained. Ah ! how many goodly Friends have been led astray 
 60 as to join with those whose spirit and conduct they do not 
 approve, because they have been too inactive, and dwelt in a 
 state of quiet and security like the men of Laish of old, who 
 
Chap. XIT.] JOURNxiL OF JOHN COMLY. 865 
 
 were dispossessed of their inheritance by the Danites, having 
 with them Micah's graven image and teraphim, and tlie hire- 
 ling priest who was glad of their promoting him to greater 
 eminence and distinction. For the delivery of this class out 
 of Babylonish captivity, wherein they are held in a state of 
 gloomy discouragement and anxiety, my spirit has travailed 
 in silent exercise and desire that in the wisdom of God a way 
 may be opened for their deliverance ; and which, I believe, 
 will be, as their afflictions are felt to become so grievous, that 
 they "sigh by reason of the bondage." For I yet believe 
 that Saul will be met with on his way to Damascus, in many 
 of those who have been led away, in the simplicity of their 
 hearts, to put their trust in the chariots of those who they 
 think are many, and in their horsemen who they apprehend 
 are very strong ; but at the same time, they feel, at seasons, 
 something pricking their minds and disturbing their false 
 peace. Under this view and hope, my mind has oft been ex- 
 ercised in desire that the devout Ananiases in our day may be 
 preserved in such a state of feeling sympathy with the seed 
 of life, as to be qualified to minister to such as may be brought 
 into the street called Straight, and into that state of fasting 
 wherein they can availingly pray. 
 
 20th. Returned homeward, stopping on the way at Chester 
 preparative meeting, wherein I had an open time in declaring 
 some solemn views that presented on the subjects of death, 
 judgment, and those principles of goodness which flow from 
 Christian faith, that render the perfect and upright man 
 acceptable to his God. After I sat down, a Friend re- 
 marked that some serious truths had been opened to their 
 view, which he hoped they should improve by ; but that to 
 some of them the service of the meeting was over, and he and 
 six other men, and about as many females withdrew, leaving 
 Friends sitting in much calmness and quietude, who soon after 
 proceeded to the business of their preparative meeting. 
 
 This is a specimen of the two parts of society meeting in 
 the same house at the same time, Avhich is the case in several 
 places, and which occasions at times some unpleasant sensa- 
 tions ; but as Friends abide in the patience, they will experi- 
 ence deliverance. 
 
366 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 Called in Philadelphia, and had a short interview with my 
 worthy though deeply tried friend, William Rotch, just ar- 
 rived from New Bedford, where rigid orthodox measures yet 
 prevail. 
 
 After leaving the city, I had a calm, peaceful ride home. 
 My mind enjoyed a heavenly tranquillity in a retrospect of the 
 labours and exercises through which I have passed Avithin a 
 year or two. Gratitude is due to the Supreme Dispenser 
 of every real blessing for the precious feelings of peace and 
 quietness. 
 
 Eighth month 8th. — Attended Bucks quarterly meeting held 
 at the Falls. It was a favoured meeting, and a large one. 
 E. Hicks and M. Smith were both set at liberty to perform a 
 religious visit to Friends of New York Yearly Meeting. Thus 
 the vision is fulfilling which was opened to my view when the 
 <'Lord of the harvest showed me the salvation of the Society 
 of Friends from under a state of oppression, and that a 
 way of enlargement would open for the spreading of gospel 
 truths through the instrumentality of the faithful, and that 
 "many should again run to and fro, and Divine knowledge 
 should be increased." May an increase of faithful labourers 
 be raised up and sent forth into the harvest, for truly "the 
 fields are white" thereunto. 
 
 Ninth month 12th. — Met the general committee, and opened 
 a concern that a visit might be made to the meetings for dis- 
 cipline throughout the Yearly Meeting, in order to confirm, 
 encourage, and strengthen Friends in the maintenance of our 
 Christian discipline and testimonies, so that the work of re- 
 formation may be carried on to the health of our religious so- 
 ciety, the promotion of the cause of Truth, and the welfare of 
 the human family. This subject obtained much place in the 
 minds of Friends, and I believe might have been profitably en- 
 gaged in, had not too many views of the subject and of the 
 various concerns of individuals been so much blended toirether, 
 that the attention of the committee became scattered, and it 
 was left. The manner of the appointment of this committee 
 in the Yearly Meeting is still a subject of regret, believing 
 that by reason of its being appointed or named in the meeting 
 at large, some individuals were placed on it that had better been 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IX NEW YORK. 367 
 
 omitted, and some others were left off who might have heen pecu- 
 liarly useful at this time and under present circumstances. 
 
 I have heen much engaged of latter time, in setting my 
 house and affairs in such order, that I might be at liberty to go 
 on the proposed visit to Friends in New York state. The in- 
 crease of sickness near us, and hearing of its prevalence in 
 various places on the route of the proposed journey, have 
 added to the trials of leaving my family and friends at this 
 time, but Divine kindness and favour have been extended to 
 bring my mind into the feeling of general quietude and re- 
 signation, and to commit myself and all mine into the care and 
 protection of the heavenly Shepherd. Much kind attention 
 has been manifested by neighbours and friends, and especially 
 some of the dear children in calling to see me previous to my 
 leaving home. 
 
 CHAPTER XIII. 
 
 Some memorandums of a journey commenced ninth month 
 20th, 1828, on which day I left my habitation in Byberry 
 under feelings of near and tender affection toward my family 
 and friends, committing them to the care and protection of 
 Israel's unslumbering Shepherd, and resigning myself to his 
 guidance and keeping in the arduous and important concern 
 and prospect before me. Rode on with my companion Josiah 
 Roberts of Moorestown, N. J., in silence for some time, giving 
 free exercise to those feelings and aspirations that such a 
 parting scene was calculated to produce. Called at Jacob 
 Paxson's, at Abington, took some refreshment, and then pro- 
 ceeded to Samuel Livezey's, at Plymouth, where we were kindly 
 entertained for the night. 
 
 To leave home at a time when sickness and fevers were 
 spreading in our borders, and in many sections of our coun- 
 try, rendered the trial of such an absence from my family and 
 
368 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 friends more poignant, and especially as I liad no expectation 
 of hearing from them for some time to come. This circum- 
 stance seemed a renewed excitement to examine the origin of 
 the concern, and the motives for making such a sacrifice and 
 undertaking such a journey. The result of this investigation 
 centered in Divine love, influencing to produce the feelings of 
 "good-will to men," so as for the sake of promoting the real 
 happiness of my fellow-creatures, to be willing to endure priva- 
 tions and hardships on this account. 
 
 Attended meeting at Plymouth on first-day, and had some 
 public service therein, which produced peace. William Whar- 
 ton and John Townsend met us here, and William joined us 
 as a companion very acceptably. Dined at S. Livezey's, and set 
 forward, accompanied by a worthy Friend, Samuel Thomas of 
 Plymouth ; went to Providence that evening ; lodged at J. 
 Jacob's, and next day had a meeting at Providence, held in 
 the stables, by reason of their being engaged in rebuilding 
 their meeting-house. The meeting was not large, but a com- 
 fortable, edifying one. Dined at John Barned's, and went 
 that afternoon, with J. A. for our guide, to Pottsgrove, about 
 fourteen miles, where we lodged at J. B.'s. 
 
 We found it very sickly all the way thus far. Bilious fevers 
 and some typhus prevail very much along the Schuylkill, on 
 which account travelling at this season sometimes appears dis- 
 couraging. 
 
 At Providence we learn there are about fifty-three members, 
 but the meeting is not thought to be on the increase, though 
 several valuable Friends reside there. 
 
 23d. We had a meeting appointed at Pottsgrove, and notice 
 spread through the town. We had a very comfortable little 
 meeting with only sixteen of the inhabitants of the place. 
 Sickness prevented a number of others from attending. My 
 spirit was borne up above the waves of discouragement, which 
 seemed ready to overwhelm some of the few disconsolate 
 Friends here, and I had the word of encouragement to hand 
 forth to them. We left the place in much nearness of sym- 
 pathy, believing our visit was useful to ourselves, and might 
 tend to the stirring up of the pure mind in some of them. Rode 
 on a very rough turnpike to Reading, where we halted and 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS TO NEW YORK. 369 
 
 called at J. Jackson's. The town appears to be inhabited 
 principally by Germans, and is rather a noisy place. About 
 seven or eight families have an indulged meeting here on first 
 and third days, and are rather increasing. Went in the eve- 
 ning to Maiden Creek, where we were welcomed at the hospi- 
 table mansion of Hannah Lightfoot. 
 
 24th. At four o'clock in the afternoon attended an appointed 
 meeting. A considerable number of Friends and their neigh- 
 bours assembled at the meeting-house, and it was to me 
 an interesting opportunity. The end of my public labour 
 among them was, to excite a close inquiry into the con- 
 sistency of their lives and conduct with their profession as 
 Christians. 
 
 25th. Wrote home, then set out toward Orwigsburg. A 
 little before our arrival there an accident occurred to one of 
 our horses, by reason of the harness giving way, by which we 
 were exposed to some danger and detention, but reached Potts- 
 ville that night. This is the great emporium of the coal busi- 
 ness, and appears to be a thriving place. Many improvements, 
 buildings, &c. beside the canal, have been within a few years 
 made here in the wilderness, hemmed in with steep mountains 
 and tremendous precipices. In the evening I felt some draw- 
 ings of love toward the inhabitants of this busy place, and 
 this feeling increased during my waking hours in the night. 
 Next morning found there were several members of our 
 society in the village, and several who had been members, or 
 were inclined toward Friends. To several of these we were 
 introduced, and the opening for a meeting among them so en- 
 larged, that we concluded to intermit our journey and spend 
 the day here, so as to see them together in the evening. In 
 this village there is no meeting for worship regularly held, 
 nor any meeting-house yet built, although the Episcopalians 
 and Catholics have both commenced the building of houses for 
 that purpose. The Methodists have frequent meetings with 
 the miners; and the labors of William Mills and wife, late 
 from England, and of J. Wind, a Methodist exhorter, are said 
 to have produced a very salutary change in the conduct and 
 manners of the lower class of people. Add to these the firm 
 stand that William Lawton, late from New York, has made 
 24 
 
370 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 against the use of ardent spirits among the men employed in 
 his coal mine and other business. 
 
 In this village S. R., a valuable young Friend, teaches a 
 school of little girls. Another school is kept in a school- 
 house, ■where they sometimes hold meetings. We encouraged 
 the few Friends here to sit down together, especially on first- 
 days, and hold a meeting for worship. Afterward, in con- 
 versation, we found that several others of the inhabitants 
 acquainted with Friends would rejoice to have such an oppor- 
 tunity of silent worship. Having leisure, we visited several 
 of these Friends ; also went to view the coal mines under the 
 superintendence of J. Lyon, whose wife is a member. Here 
 Ave saw the wonders of art and nature ; were taken under 
 ground in the coal wagon upward of seven hundred feet ; saAV 
 the miners at work, and then ascended by an avenue to day- 
 light and safety, after, to me, a fatiguing excursion among 
 immense masses or veins of coal. William Mills, above 
 named, accompanied us. He is principal miner, or foreman ; 
 has been educated a miner from four years of age. He is an 
 intelligent, religious man. His mother was a member among 
 Friends. His wife also is very intelligent, and possessed of 
 talent and energy capable of being eminently useful; her 
 powers have already been displayed to the great reformation 
 of the miners, eighteen or twenty of whom board with them. 
 She told us, when they came, about fifteen months ago, their 
 persons and whole conduct showed great filthiness and degra- 
 dation. She soon adopted the regulation that every one 
 should have on clean linen every first-day morning, before she 
 gave him any breakfast. This introduced more cleanliness 
 and order ; and the way opened gradually through their exam- 
 ple and advice for a reformation, so that now, she says, it is 
 rare to hear any profane language or see any intoxication or 
 quarrelling among them. This woman is a valuable acquisi- 
 tion to the neighbourhood. 
 
 In the evening a very large company collected at the "York 
 Stores," of all classes and conditions, miners, carters, me- 
 chanics, agents, &c. They were very orderly, and we had a 
 good meeting together, in which doctrine and counsel flowed 
 freely in the unobstructed channels of gospel love. It was 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS TO NEW YORK. 371 
 
 thought many, perhaps two-thirds of them, had never been at 
 a Friends' meeting before. Next day we left the phace with 
 peace and an increasing nearness of fellowship with divers of 
 its inhabitants, who manifested much kindness ; and a hope was 
 felt that the seed of life was quickened in many minds by this 
 visit. 
 
 Hence we travelled over many mountains, and beheld the 
 grand scenery of nature as exhibited in the stupendous piles 
 of rocks and lofty summits of elevated hills, as also the very 
 deep valleys between them, with immense forests uncultivated 
 and uninhabited by man, not seeing a human being nor a dwell- 
 ing-house for many miles. Thus, over very rough roads, up 
 hill and down, we at length reached Roaring Creek Valley, 
 twenty-two miles. Called at Jeremiah Hughes's; then went 
 to my cousin A. Hampton's to lodge. It was nearly dark 
 when we arrived. The kindness of the family was exhibited 
 in rendering us welcome, and several of their brothers and 
 sisters coming in, it was a season of renewing our acquaint- 
 ance and friendship. My uncle, J. Hampton, removed and 
 settled here about the year 1794, having a large family of 
 children. His desire to provide for his oiTspring induced him 
 to venture among the new settlers in the wilderness, but the 
 soil is not the most fertile ; and though he purchased a large 
 tract of uncultivated land, so as to furnish employment for 
 his sons, yet the privations of suitable society, and the rough 
 manners of the wilderness, have had an effect on their chil- 
 dren, so that now several of them have very little appearance 
 of Friends, and most of them have married out of society. 
 Their condition, and that of their children, excited my near 
 sympathy, and introduced a train of serious reflections on the 
 changes and vicissitudes of human life, and the various pas- 
 sions and principles that operate in the mind of man in pur- 
 suing his course through this vale of probation. 
 
 28th. The meeting at Roaring Creek was well attended, 
 considering the short notice, and the little animation among 
 Friends in spreading information. Great openness appeared 
 among them to hear the truths of the gospel, and their minds 
 appeared solemnized and comforted together. So we left 
 them under renewed feelings of love, and peace, and good-will. 
 
372 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 At Roaring Creek there are but few Friends, the meeting 
 having been on the decline for some years. The old people 
 being mostly gone, removed either by death or emigration to 
 other places, and their children having intermarried with those 
 not in membership, many of them have left the society, and 
 their offspring now carry little or no mark of the plainness of 
 Friends, either in appearance or language. No ministering 
 Friend has lived there for near twenty years past, yet there 
 remains so much life among them that some have been re- 
 ceived into membership, and the meeting has been kept up. 
 This is cause of thankfulness and encouragement. 
 
 In the afternoon had a very full meeting at Catawissa. It 
 was a satisfactory opportunity, affording peace to our minds, 
 and hope the preaching of the Word, in the evidence of Divine 
 authority, reached the Witness in many minds. May the 
 glory and praise ascend to Him whose presence was felt to be 
 near us, and to fill our hearts with love and good-will to all, 
 without respect to names, sects, or parties. 
 
 29th. Accompanied by our kind friend B. Sharpless, we 
 went on to Fishing Creek. Dined at C. E.'s, and opened our 
 prospect of a meeting there. Our worthy, hospitable friend 
 soon went out and brought in two of his neighbours, valuable 
 Friends, who consulted on the subject, and agreed to promote 
 a meeting. 
 
 30th. Attended a meeting appointed for us at Fishing 
 Creek meeting-house, a comfortable opportunity, in which 
 doctrine and counsel flowed to several states and conditions 
 among the people. Dined at J. G. R.'s, and then attended 
 a meeting at Greenwood, which was held at the house of 
 Ephraim Parker. It was very much crowded, and to some of 
 us, at least, a very good, comfortable meeting. Friends here 
 have their trials. The sincere-hearted among them are 
 mourning in secret, and some of their hearts are ready to 
 faint in prospect of the troubles that seem to be enclosing 
 them around. My spirit entered deeply into the feelings of 
 brotherly sympathy with them, and my intercessions were 
 offered for their preservation in the hollow of the Divine Hand 
 until these calamities be overpast. 
 
 Tenth month 1st. — We set out, accompanied by our kind 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 373 
 
 friend H. B., who said he could not be easy to let us go away 
 alone. He therefore showed us the way toward Berwick, 
 about thirteen miles, to William Thomas's. Here we dined, 
 and then parted with Henry in near unity and tender sym- 
 pathy. I had some conversation with him on the state of 
 society, and was well satisfied with the concern which he 
 manifested for the preservation and promotion of peace, and 
 harmony, and love, objects always dear to my heart, and in- 
 creasingly so in this jom-ney. Sickness prevails along the 
 Susquehanna, where they are cutting a canal, so that we had 
 to ride three miles through a heavy rain to find lodgings, 
 because there were so many sick at the house where we had 
 designed to tarry. Oh ! that the admonitions of Divine Pro- 
 vidence might be more deeply felt and regarded in these dis- 
 pensations of affliction, that the inhabitants of the land may 
 thereby learn righteousness. 
 
 Next day pursued our journey alone through Wilkesbarre, 
 up the east side of the Susquehanna. Called at a post-ofl5ce 
 about eight miles higher up to inquire the way ; there came 
 out a man who appeared to take interest in us, and invited us 
 to come into his house. On our declining this, he told us he 
 was a member of the Society of Friends ; that he came from 
 Ireland about seven or eight years ago, but had never given 
 in his certificate, because of his remote situation from meet- 
 ing. He and his sister lived together, and appeared glad to 
 see the face of a Friend. We proceeded a little farther, and 
 stopped at a tavern to feed our horses ; found an intelligent 
 woman, whose husband was absent. They had seven chil- 
 dren, and the whole family are members of a monthly meet- 
 ing near the North River — descendants of J. Coutant, several 
 of whose children I was acquainted with when in that country. 
 The situation of these two families, settled on the banks of 
 the Susquehanna so remote from Friends, claimed my serious 
 consideration, and feeling of near sympathy and solicitude. 
 This afternoon we travelled up the Lackawannock, over very 
 rough roads, till we arrived at S. G.'s, where we were very 
 kindly entertained by himself and his worthy wife, who is a 
 member among Friends, and a friend indeed — an Israelite in 
 whom there is no guile. She feels her lonesome situation in 
 
374 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 respect to the company of Friends, being forty miles or more 
 from any meeting ; but every first-day she sits down by her- 
 self to wait in silence, and is often favoured with the Divine 
 presence, to her comfort and peace. She mentioned very 
 feelingly her satisfaction in our visit, and a little opportunity 
 had with her at parting, W'hich was cause of encouragement 
 to my mind. Hence we travelled on steadily dm'ing the day, 
 and reached Montrose, in Susquehanna county, in the eve- 
 ning. Here we found letters from our families at home, which 
 were received with thankfulness and renewed encouragement 
 to proceed in this arduous journey, in that Divine Providence 
 continues to preserve them in health, and to watch over them 
 and us for good. Here another trial attended ; my horse 
 appeared to have foundered by drinking cold water, so that it 
 seemed likely we would be brought into difficulty in prose- 
 cuting our journey. We had him bled copiously, and next 
 morning he was so much better that we set out slowly, and 
 reached R. Rose's mansion about one o'clock P. M. During 
 this morning's ride my mind was deeply exercised in a travail 
 for the arising and growth of the seed of life in the hearts of 
 the children of men, and especially in the agitated minds of 
 my fellow-professoi's of the Christian name. Under these 
 feelings the spirit of supplication was poured upon me, and 
 my heart melted in contrition before Him who sees in secret, 
 and I rejoiced in the renewed evidence of his love, his mercy, 
 and goodness to the children of men, and my tears were 
 poured out before him. After dining with R. R. and family, 
 and viewing some of his improvements at the head of Silver 
 Lake, we went on to S. L.'s, where we were kindly entertained 
 during the night. 
 
 On first-day, the fifth of tenth month, attended Friends' 
 meeting at Friendsville. It was small. Little notice had 
 been given ; the chilling influence of detraction seemed to have 
 closed the streams of that love and unity which become the 
 followers of Christ. I sensibly felt the obstruction, and 
 silently mourned over the desolation that is spreading among 
 Friends, and felt even among the few members here, so re- 
 motely situated among the mountains. Only seven families 
 reside here. My spirit was bowed in deep exercise for their 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 375 
 
 present and everlasting welfare, and though in my communica- 
 tion I felt sensibly the difficulty of stemming the current of 
 prejudice in some present, yet I was helped for^Yard to my 
 own relief, and to the dispelling of some of those mists that 
 seemed to darken some minds. After meeting, a person met 
 me, and with his daughter, a tender-spirited young woman, 
 who had been much tendered in the meeting, very cordially 
 took me by the hand, and gave me a pressing invitation to 
 dine and lodge with them. The father inquired my name, 
 which I gave. He seemed struck with sudden surprise, re- 
 peated it in a tone of disappointment, and immediately turned 
 abruptly from me; here was the effect of prejudice. We 
 dined with J. Mann, whose heart and house were open to 
 receive us with gladness and genuine hospitality. Before we 
 arrived there, we overtook a young woman of gay appearance 
 who had walked four miles to meeting, over very rough, hilly 
 roads, and was now three miles on her way home. She accepted 
 an invitation to ride, and informed us that she loved to go to 
 Friends' meetings ; thought it no hardship to walk, though 
 her relations were opposed to her going. She expressed in 
 much sincerity and simplicity her wish that we would stay till 
 another first-day, and be at meeting again. Said she en- 
 deavoured to live so as not to offend her heavenly Father, 
 and other expressions evidencing a tenderly visited mind, 
 though under circumstances very unfavourable to such a 
 tender state. Her mother had been gone from home about 
 a year, and resided among her relations in Connecticut. At 
 her departure, she gave this daughter strict charge not to go 
 to Quaker meeting. But she feels most peace in doing what 
 she believes her duty. My feelings of tender solicitude were 
 awakened toward her, and I could reflect on the wide dif- 
 ference between her destitute condition and that of my own 
 dear children, and very many of the highly privileged daugh- 
 ters in our religious society. All that seemed in my power to 
 do, was to give her some affectionate counsel to faithfulness, 
 and to put her trust in God, who would be a Father to her. 
 I also recommended Friends to be mindful of her. This after- 
 noon Daniel Richards and liis wife Lydia, a daughter of good 
 old Abel Thomas, came upward of two miles on foot to see us, 
 
376 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 and we were mutually glad to see each other. They appear 
 disposed to stand firm in their profession of the Truth. 
 
 On second-day morning, we took an affectionate leave of 
 these kind friends, called at J. Lord's for our baggage, had 
 some friendly conversation with him on the state of society, 
 and felt a renewal of love and friendship in the unity of the 
 one Spirit ; under which we parted, and had the expression of 
 their desire that the blessing of Divine preservation might 
 attend us on om- journey. We proceeded on our way alone 
 down the Choconut valley, over very rough roads, through an 
 unsettled country, about fourteen miles, till we reached the 
 Susquehanna River, then turned down the course of this 
 beautiful stream through a settlement of excellent land about 
 ten miles ; crossed the river, and Avent through the pleasant 
 village of Oswego, where we entered on the Ithica tm-npike, 
 a very level, but rough road. We seemed now to have got 
 past the mountains, and entered a more fertile country, 
 abounding in grass, and fruit, and good buildings. We 
 stayed the night at a very good inn, wrote home, and next 
 morning went four miles to breakfast. Dined at Ithica, and 
 inquired the way to Hector, in order to visit Friends there. 
 Ascended a very high hill, and came to a very fertile country. 
 After travelling about six miles, we found a man bearing the 
 name we were inquiring for, (it having been furnished us 
 before we left home,) but he was not a member. It was now 
 near sunset, and we felt anxious to find a lodging-place for 
 the night. Went on till we came to the house, and saw a 
 decent-looking woman, whom I asked if we could have accom- 
 modations for the night, as we Avere strangers from Pennsyl- 
 vania and weary with travelling ; she said the house Avas small, 
 but perhaps she could lodge us on a pinch. I thought the 
 prospect a discouraging one ; a small one-story log house, Avith 
 only one room, in which Avas a bed, and household and kitchen 
 furniture, and six or eight children about the door. Her 
 husband was at the barn, Avhither we went to see him ; he told 
 us he was not a member, but seemed willing Ave should go in. 
 We inquired for a public-house, when he showed us the house 
 of his brother-in-laAV, about half a mile off, who he said was a 
 member. Thither we went. No one came out to meet us; 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 377 
 
 but at length we found his wife, and asked for lodgings as 
 strangers from Pennsylvania. She said we could be accommo- 
 dated, that they did not usually turn people away, but that 
 her husband was out in the woods. It was now nearly dark; 
 the friend came in, put up our horses, had a fire made and a 
 good supper set for us. He manifested much hospitality, and 
 my companions and himself passed the evening in social con- 
 verse, but no mention was made of the affairs or state of 
 society. The wife waited on us with kindness, but was much 
 reserved. My mind was silently exercised during the evening, 
 and I felt as a stranger entering on an important engagement 
 for promoting the welfare of my fellow-creatures. There 
 seemed to me a cloud hanging over us, but knew not on what 
 account. We, however, learned that their meeting was to be 
 held next day about five miles off, and signified our desire to 
 attend it, to which no objection was made and no encourage- 
 ment given. 
 
 Fourth-day morning we rose early, and proposed going on 
 to C. C.'s near the meeting-house to breakfast, but the friend 
 with whom we lodged prevailed on us to stay for breakfast at 
 his house. We accepted his invitation as an act of kindness. 
 Soon after we had taken some refreshment, our horses were 
 harnessed, and just as we were ready to set out alone, (for he 
 excused himself for not accompanying us,) he told us it was 
 their monthly meeting day, and that they were all on one 
 side there ; that he thought best to inform us, as he learned 
 by my name that we were from the other side. He said they 
 were all quiet, and did not want any disturbance or division. 
 We told him our object was to promote love, and peace, 
 and harmony, and not contention and division. I then 
 inquired whether he thought we might attend their meeting 
 without giving offence ; he signified we might attend the first 
 meeting, as it was public, but he doubted it being best to stay 
 the meeting for business ; but as we were going to his father- 
 in-law's, we had better converse with him. 
 
 We then went on, pensively revolving in our minds the try- 
 ing circumstances in which we were placed. Through much 
 toil and exercise of body and mind, we had travelled thus far 
 to visit Friends in love and good-will, and now the way ap- 
 
378 JOUKNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 peared closed against us. Reached C. C.'s, and after some 
 conA-ersation I told him I felt easy to leave him ; that though 
 I felt much love and good- will toward Friends there, I was 
 not disposed to intrude or impose myself upon them ; that I 
 should follow the example of the Master and his disciples 
 formerly; when they were not received in one place, they went 
 to another : and thus bid him farewell. We went on slowly ; 
 my mind was covered with mourning on account of the spread- 
 ing and prevailing of the spirit of talebearing and detraction. 
 Crossed the Cayuga Lake in a horse-boat, and arrived at T. 
 Hutchinson's toward evening, and it seemed like again meet- 
 ing with bone of our bone and flesh of our flesh. 
 
 Next day, being ninth of tenth month, after a morning of 
 deep exercise, we attended Scipio week-day meeting. Notice 
 had been spread, and the meeting was attended by divers 
 neighbours and professors. We had a good meeting. May 
 the praise be ascribed to Him who is mindful of his little 
 ones, and who gave ability to labour in word and doctrine to 
 our mutual edification and comfort. We went four miles to 
 dine with A. Coffin, at Aurora, on the banks of Cayuga Lake ; 
 were kindly entertained by her and R. B., a young woman 
 who teaches a boarding-school of girls in her house. We also 
 visited an afflicted widow, and then went to J. M.'s to lodge, 
 where we had the company of several dear Friends. 
 
 On the 11th, being sixth-day, we had an appointed meeting 
 at Salmon Creek. It was a favoured opportunity, in which 
 was illustrated the excellent character and consequent blessing 
 of Joseph, with an application of his example to Christian 
 professors of the present day. Dined and lodged at J. Hal- 
 stead's. 
 
 On seventh-day he set out with us, taking his horses, and 
 we rode forty miles to De Ruyter, Avhere we put up with B. 
 Mitchell. On first-day, had a large and satisfactory meeting 
 in Friends' meeting-house at that place. Lodged at E. 
 Otis's, and next day pursued our course back to Sempronius ; 
 put up at J. Kenyon's, and here met with H. Pearsall, an 
 aged Friend of eighty-two years, who came among Friends 
 from the Baptists. He related to us the circumstances of 
 his leaving that society, and the tender manner in which they 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 379 
 
 dismissed him from among them, still allowing him the privi- 
 lege of a brother. He appears green in old age, and alive in 
 the love of Truth. Friends are much tried in this place. 
 Wherever we go, the conversation is almost exclusively about 
 the state of society. It is a day in which those w^ho travel 
 for the promotion of peace and good-will to men had need to 
 dwell deep in a watchful care to feel after the preserving 
 power of Truth, that they may indeed be wise as serpents and 
 harmless as doves. My spirit has been much baptized into a 
 silent travail with the afflicted, oppressed seed of life in the 
 minds of my fellow-creatures, out of meetings as well as 
 when assembled, and not engaged in testimony among the 
 people. Hence, much of the conversation that I am obliged 
 to hear, and sometimes to share a little in, for civility's sake, 
 is painful to my mind ; yet I feel it best to be patient, and 
 endeavour to dwell in the tent of a quiet mind. 
 
 On our way to De Ruyter, my companion J. Roberts was 
 taken unwell, complaining much of cold; and a.lthough he 
 procured some medicine, and was well enough to sit meeting 
 on first-day, yet his disease continued, so that we judged it 
 best for him to return to Scipio, where he might rest and be 
 nursed. He bore the ride (upward of forty miles) without 
 much increase of his disease. 
 
 On third-day morning, after a stormy, windy night, it grew 
 cold, with snow-squalls, and we had a very small gathering. 
 After this meeting, some of the people were heard to express 
 their disappointment. From what had been told them of 
 Friends, they expected to hear nothing but railing against 
 those who differed in opinion from us ; instead of which, all 
 was love, and peace, and good-will. Great satisfaction was 
 felt and expressed by them, and their countenances bespoke 
 it. To me this little meeting was encouraging, in the evi- 
 dence I had of the seed of Jacob being alive in the minds of 
 many people, and that it would arise in the Lord's time. 
 
 Rode eight miles, part of it up the Owasco hills — about a 
 mile of rough and steep ascent — facing a cold wind, with 
 snow-squalls, till we reached J. Sutton's, where we were kindly 
 entertained. On these Owasco hills, in sight of the lake of 
 that name, are abundance of chestnut trees, and the people, 
 
380 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 men, women, and children, with wagons, baskets, bags, &c., 
 were assembled from many miles distant, to gather nuts — the 
 high winds of the two preceding days having blown down vast 
 quantities. It was supposed one hundred bushels were gath- 
 ered by them. 
 
 In the evening, called at Nehemiah Merritt's. His wife 
 received us kindly and set us an excellent cup of tea, to 
 which she appeared to welcome us, but the openness of pure 
 love and unity that once was felt between us now seemed ob- 
 structed. Some little conversation, however, near the close 
 of our visit, relative to the present trying season, seemed to 
 revive some of those endearing sensations of peace and har- 
 mony, which tended to weaken, at least in some degree, the 
 bars of prejudice, and we parted under these softening im- 
 pressions. My heart was affected with compassion and ten- 
 derness toward her and her deeply-tried husband. Ah ! how 
 many sighs and tears in secret are occasioned by the preva- 
 lence of a harsh and bitter spirit. 
 
 Returned to lodge at J. M.'s. Found J. Roberts quite un- 
 well ; procured a physician for him, and then William Whar- 
 ton and myself were taken by our kind friend J. M. to North 
 Street, to attend a meeting appointed for us there. It was 
 pretty large, though to myself not so lively as some others. 
 Here we met with M. S., S. B., and B. S., from Bucks 
 county, on a religious visit to these parts. We were mutually 
 glad to see each other. Dined at T. Alsop's, and back to J. 
 M.'s to lodge. J. R. appeared better. 
 
 Tenth month 16th. — Attended Friends' monthly meeting 
 at Scipio. M. Smith appeared in testimony, and then some 
 labom- fell to my share in that line. The business was con- 
 ducted with harmony and some energy, there being a number 
 of lively-spirited Friends here ; but they have need of care 
 lest their zeal against those who differ from them carry them 
 too far. It appears by their minutes that a separation took 
 place in the seventh month last, about one-fourth leaving the 
 house. A minute was now produced by a committee ap- 
 pointed for the purpose, expressive of the circumstances, 
 couched in pretty severe language. The meeting was about 
 to adopt it and enter it on their minutes, when I reminded 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 381 
 
 them of Noah's sons, who took a garment, laid it on their 
 shoulders, went backward, and covered the nakedness of their 
 intoxicated father, who had once been an upright man ; and 
 that it was likely some of those who had left them in the ac- 
 cusing manner which they had described, might once have 
 been their dear friends, &c. Much solemnity covered the 
 meeting, while thus pleading for the exercise of charity and 
 tenderness ; and many Friends appeared to unite with the 
 spirit of moderation and forbearance toward those who had 
 left them. So the subject was returned to the committee, 
 and the cause of mercy and peace was promoted. 
 
 Dined and lodged at J. Searing's. Next day went to W. S. 
 Burling's, at Springport, and had a good, open time in an af- 
 ternoon meeting at Friends' meeting-house at that place, to 
 which came many sober neighbours, who appeared by their 
 sobriety and quietude to be acquainted with silent waiting ; 
 and my heart was enlarged in love toward them and the few 
 Friends of that little meeting. Lodged at Wm. B.'s, and 
 next morning set forward ten miles to Auburn. Dined at A. 
 Cook's. My mind was much exercised. Friends of our company 
 and some others had suggested having a meeting here in the 
 evening, but to me a cloud seemed to cover it. The state-prison 
 was in sight, containing upward of six hundred prisoners, and 
 several Friends went to visit it ; but my mind could not enjoy 
 the indulgence of curiosity nor any thing else, till it became 
 settled in a prospect of going forward to Skeneateles, after 
 which M. S. expressed her desire to have a public meeting 
 with the inhabitants of this large, busy town. I felt easy to 
 stay and attend it. Martha was favoured in testimony. I 
 was silent and satisfied. Lodged at Auburn. 
 
 First-day morning, 19th. — It began to snow about eight 
 o'clock, and we had a snowy ride eight miles to Skeneateles, 
 to Friends' meeting there. M. S. appeared in testimony, and 
 then way opened in the life and power of Truth to relieve my 
 mind in addressing several states present. It was a meeting 
 eminently favoured, and many minds were sensible of the 
 goodness of Him who is calling his seeking children to dwell 
 deep in humility and faithful dedication to his requirings. 
 
 Dmed at William Willet's. My prospect opening toward 
 
382 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 Black River, northward, called at L. P. Mott's neat and com- 
 fortable dwelling, very pleasantly situated a little way from the 
 shores of the lake, the grounds beautifully sloping with a gentle 
 descent to the edge of the water. She was not at home, being 
 almost unremittingly engaged in attending to the concerns of 
 society and the promotion of the cause of Truth and righteous- 
 ness. So we spent an hour or two with her son, and then re- 
 turned to William Willet's to lodge. He gave us an account 
 of part of his journey to Canada, to visit the scattered 
 Friends there, more than twenty years ago, when this fair 
 land was nearly all a wilderness, and when they had to lie 
 out in the woods twelve nights for want of a house to shelter 
 them, having four women in company. Their provisions were 
 all expended before they reached the settlement of Friends ; 
 but through all their hardships of a three months' wilderness 
 journey, much of the way on foot, they were preserved, and 
 had cause of gratitude for Divine support and providential 
 care over them in their toil and labour of love toward their 
 scattered Friends. Ah ! how little exposure of this kind is now 
 suffered. How many are dwelling as in their ceiled houses, 
 and how many widows and fatherless are by them neglected. 
 
 On second-day morning we took the turnpike, and passed 
 through several villages, till we came to one called Syracuse, 
 newly sprung up on each side of the canal. We called at a 
 lofty, four-story hotel, elegantly furnished ; dined in a room 
 fifty feet long by twenty-five in width, where a table was set 
 that would serve for eighty persons. The walls were covered 
 with paintings of various scenery, ornamented with "every 
 hue that reflected light could give." Ah! how would John 
 Woolman have felt here. My mind was turned to think of 
 Him who had not where to lay his head, and who came to re- 
 deem men from a life in such vanities ; and yet how little 
 redemption is effected. Ambition, avarice, wealth, luxury, 
 idleness, vanity, and dissipation, seem the grand idols of mul- 
 titudes of the human race. 
 
 Here the canal furnishes business to the enterprising spirit 
 of ambition. Large storehouses are built, and more are being 
 erected. Elegant dwelling-houses and other splendid edifices 
 are rapidly increasing, and it appears like a very busy place. 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IX NEW YORK. 383 
 
 It is considered as exhibiting great improvement, and excites 
 much praise, tending to feed the pride and vanity of those 
 who thus "spend their money" (or the money of others) "in 
 that which is not bread, and their labour for that which satis- 
 fieth not" the vacuity of the immortal soul, made to feed on 
 angel's food and aspire to eternal life. The industry of man 
 may be properly exercised in cutting canals, and turning the 
 waters into courses not formed by Nature for their current, 
 thus serving the conveniences of many distant parts of a 
 country, in the useful concerns of an humble life ; and this 
 may as lawfully be done to a distance of three hundred miles 
 as to cut a race or canal forty rods in length, for the purpose 
 of conveying a stream of water to turn a grist-mill. But 
 whenever the bounds of real utility are passed, the avarice, 
 pride, and lusts of men, may convert the choicest gifts of 
 Heaven into curses, and so abuse the powers intended for 
 their comfort and happiness, that misery and wretchedness 
 may be increased instead of diminished. 
 
 As my reflections have been repeatedly occupied with this 
 wonderful achievement, (the canal,) and as I hear almost uni- 
 versal encomiums passed upon it, I have been induced to fear 
 that it will prove a serious injury to many parts of the coun- 
 try through which it passes, not only in aiding to produce 
 fevers and sickness that may shorten many lives, but by the 
 facility of introducing luxuries and superfluities in a newly- 
 settled country, create wants before unknown to the laborious 
 and useful part of the community. Add to this, the intro- 
 duction of the wealthy, who settle among them as noblemen, 
 and live in city style almost among the stumps of the late 
 forest, forming distinctive grades and classes in society, 
 which are at variance with that simplicity and equality which 
 usually and very properly characterizes the hardy, indus- 
 trious settlers of the wilderness. And yet, tempered with 
 Christian humility and meekness, such might be eminently 
 useful would they example others in a plain, simple, and indus- 
 trious way of living. This, however, is rarely the case. 
 
 During two days' ride through this newly-settled and set- 
 tling country, my mind was much occupied with considera- 
 tions on the state of society, as well civil as religious, and 
 
384 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 some gloomy and discouraging views occurred in regard to 
 the prevailing of a spirit of libertinism and a spirit of pride 
 and self-exaltation. Alas ! what devastation has been made 
 in religious associations by the prevalence of a spirit of self- 
 ishness, bigotry, and intolerance. How many suffer under 
 ecclesiastical tyranny, even in this land of boasted liberty 
 of conscience. How many are led away into party spirit, 
 heats and passions, and doubtful disputations, by the artifice, 
 influence, and menaces of others. But again, when the 
 cloud is a little dispelled, there is evidence of the arising of 
 light, and that Jehovah is on his "way, turning and overturn- 
 ing, shaking and rending among the nations, and preparing 
 a way in the hearts of the children of men for the coming of 
 his glorious kingdom of peace and love. 
 
 Lodged on second-day evening at a village called Chitti- 
 ningo. I was closely engaged in writing home during the 
 evening, but at several times felt as if there was a seed in 
 that place that was worthy of a nearer acquaintance. Next 
 day pursued our course over a very rough, unpleasant turn- 
 pike rO'ad to Utica, a large town on the Mohawk. The canal 
 also runs through the town. There we stayed the night. 
 
 Tenth month 21st. — This morning my kind friend William 
 Wharton took boat on the canal, in order to return to his dear 
 family and friends. This was a close trial to me, but I was 
 enabled to give him up, and commit myself to Divine guid- 
 ance and protection. William has travelled with me in much 
 unity and sympathy, for four weeks and upward, over a rough 
 country, nearly six hundred miles. His company and kind 
 assistance have been cordially acceptable and comfortable to 
 me. May Heaven reward him with the riches of peace and 
 Divine consolation for this act of pure friendship and dedi- 
 cation. 
 
 At Utica received further information of the tried state 
 of Friends hereaway. The unwearied efforts of some to 
 spread pernicious books and evil reports, have entangled the 
 minds of many innocent, goodly Friends. Much distress and 
 anxiety have been brought on families and on a number of 
 small meetings in this quarter. Even the few families in 
 Utica have divided ; four or five families have left Friends, 
 
Chap. Xril.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 386 
 
 and hold their meeting in the afternoon of first-day, in the 
 same house, and on fourth-day, instead of fifth. Thus one 
 house accommodates them all, though no mutual agreement 
 has been adopted. The house was built principally by con- 
 tributions collected in New York by Elias Hicks. Most of 
 the members here are in low circumstances. They have had 
 a meeting here little more than a year, and now the rending 
 spirit has divided it into two parts. 
 
 22d. No way opening to get to a meeting of Friends to- 
 day, and the weather being favourable, we set out for the 
 Black River settlement, a distance of near eighty miles. Tra- 
 velled through a country of various soil, but not much hilly ; 
 part of the way a heavy sand, part alluvial, and part lime- 
 stone land. Heavy white frosts for two mornings past ; the 
 day clear and pleasant. 
 
 My health mercifully preserved, and my mind much occu- 
 pied with compassionating the situation of many poor families 
 scattered along the road, contrasting their wretched hovels 
 without chimneys with the costly, fanciful, large buildings 
 and tawdry spires, or steeples, erected in almost every village. 
 
 Called at a spacious tavern at Boonville, to put up for the 
 night, having travelled upward of thirty miles. Here were 
 a number of men collected on account of a lawsuit between 
 a father, near ninety-two years old, and one of his sons ; the 
 son was the plaintiff, and they had lawyers employed, and a 
 magistrate's court to determine the disagreeable controversy. 
 At first the prospect of a quiet entertainment appeared gloomy. 
 I asked for a private room, but all were occupied except the 
 dining-room ; and in this we passed the evening, mostly alone, 
 except, sometimes, the company of the landlord, an intelligent 
 and well-bred man, who exceedingly regretted the circumstance 
 of his neighbours' contention. In the adjoining room there 
 was sometimes a little loud conversation, otherwise the house 
 was very quiet ; and though the court sat till late, all dis- 
 persed in quietness, in seasonable hours. The inns on this 
 state-road are generally kept by men of orderly, moral cha- 
 racter; and I do not recollect, since being in New York state, 
 of seeing one instance of intoxication at a public house. 
 
 Next morning set out early, and rode seven miles to break- 
 
386 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1828. 
 
 fast at a tavern, then proceeded on our way to Lowville, fif- 
 teen miles. When we arrived at the edge of the viUage, we 
 saw several plain-di-essed people going home from meeting. 
 Inquired of a villager the way to T. T.'s. While in the act 
 of inquiry, saw a Friend approaching us, whom I recognised 
 to be G. P., who took us to his house, where we dined, and re- 
 ceived the first intelligence of a separation having taken place 
 among Friends here, and that but a short time since. After 
 dinner, I proposed going to see my friend T. T., but G. P. 
 endeavoured to dissuade me, by telling me that he and all his 
 family were orthodox. I told him I must go, that T. T. had 
 been my intimate friend from our childhood, that we were 
 educated and brought up in the same neighbourhood as bro- 
 thers, that our friendship had been mutual till he removed to 
 this country, and that I knew of nothing that had interrupted 
 these feelings since, and should not now, on account of a di- 
 versity of opinion, shun him and his dear wife, whom I had 
 esteemed as a sister. G. P. then consented to our going, and 
 accompanied us to his house, about two miles ofi"; but the 
 Friends were not at home, so George left us there. Elizabeth 
 first returned, and received us with cordiality and affection. 
 In the evening her husband returned, but it being candle-light 
 he did not at first recognise me ; he however bade me wel- 
 come, and several neighbours coming in, the evening passed 
 in friendly conversation, and mutual inquiries on many sub- 
 jects, carefully keeping society affairs out of view. 
 
 G .P. had wanted to know my prospects, but I had no free- 
 dom to say any thing on the subject till I could see what Truth 
 pointed out. T. T. and his wife are the only elders of this 
 meeting, and it opened clearly to me to consult them as my 
 particular friends, and as though no division had taken place. 
 So in the evening, after the family had retired, I had a con- 
 ference with them alone ; told them I had come to visit Friends 
 in love, and in order to promote peace, and harmony, and 
 love ; that I was entirely ignorant of the state of Friends 
 here till G. P. informed me that they had separated ; and that 
 he and his Avife were among the orthodox, Avho held their meet- 
 ings at two o'clock on first-day, P. M., and on fourth-day instead 
 of fifth, leaving Friends to hold their meetings at the former 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 387 
 
 establislied times, and so tlie same liouse accommodated both, 
 which I approved, if a separation was unavoidable, but I 
 exceedingly regretted that in their remote situation, and con- 
 sidering the fewness of their numbers when all together, that 
 they had separated at all. Thomas wept, and said it had been 
 a grievous thing to him, that he had lost much sleep on account 
 of it, and believed they should not have separated had it not 
 been for one individual, but as things were he did not see how 
 it could be otherwise. I then proposed going on next day to 
 the other settlements, and that he should accompany me, being 
 well acquainted with the roads, &c., and no strait in my mind 
 on account of his being orthodox. I believed there would be 
 an important use in it, tending to show our continued unity 
 of spirit, and to remove some prejudices, and also tending to 
 reunite the parties hereaway, many, if not all, of whom are 
 much ignorant of the causes of separation. Thomas said he 
 would consider the proposal, and answer me next morning. 
 His feelings appeared to assent to it, but his prejudices opposed 
 it, and a severe conflict of mind drew tears from his eyes, 
 while his tender-spirited wife encouraged him to go with me. 
 Another proposal I then made respecting a meeting at Low- 
 ville on my return. As my love was to all without partiality, 
 I proposed to have a meeting in Friends' meeting-house on 
 third-day next, and that general notice should be spread, and 
 asked him whether he would speak of it at the close of the or- 
 thodox meeting on first-day, and get Friends to do the same 
 at the close of their meeting. But though he assented to the 
 proposal of my having a meeting, he objected to its being 
 spoken of at the close of their meeting. He said, however, 
 that he would give information in such a Avay that all might 
 have knowledge of it, and every one do as he thought right ; 
 and further, he counselled me in respect to my proposed jour- 
 ney to Brownsville and the other meetings, and pointed out 
 the arrangement for me to pursue with evident feelings of in- 
 terest and friendship. He did not accompany me in the morn- 
 ing following, though he freely undertook to have notice gene- 
 rally spread of my being at meeting at Lowville on my return, 
 and to him I confided the whole care, in which he appeared to 
 be faithful, as the sequel proved. 
 
388 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 On sixth-day morning we set out alone, to travel over a 
 strange road (to us) thirty-two miles to Brownsville, a circum- 
 stance that T. T. in former days, or with his former feelings 
 and friendship, I am fully persuaded, would not have sufiered. 
 The evidence of this change, and the causes of it, with the dis- 
 appointment of finding these dear Friends led away hy preju- 
 dice, and contemplating the sufferings they have endured, and 
 will endure to a much greater degree — all crowded my mind 
 with painful feelings of deep commiseration, and the miseries 
 and afflictions of my once fellow-professors melted my heart 
 into silent sympathy and travail, for the redemption and en- 
 largement of the seed of life in the minds of my fellow-crea- 
 tures. 
 
 During these days of lonely and pensive travel, the atmo- 
 sphere was loaded with an increasing mist of smoke, that be- 
 came at length so dense as to obstruct the sun's rays from 
 producing any shadow, and to prevent our seeing hills or woods 
 at about a mile distant. It had the appearance of what is 
 usually called Indian summer. The roads were very good, and 
 after calling at a Friend's house, about ten miles from Low- 
 ville, and leaving word to have a meeting appointed in a school- 
 house hard by, for our return on second-day, we went on 
 through Watertown to Brownsville, Avhere we arrived about 
 sunset. Watertown and Brownsville are four or five miles 
 apart, situate on the banks of Black River, and having the 
 advantage of the falls of that river, abound with large and ex- 
 tensive manufactories, and appear like very flourishing towns, 
 having a number of fine buildings and ornamented steeples, 
 which bespeak more self-exaltation and the gratification of a 
 vain mind, than appears to me to comport with the meekness, 
 self-denial, and humility of the faithful folloAvers of the Lamb. 
 
 In and within a few miles of Brownsville, there are about 
 twenty-five members residing, who are Friends. A few years 
 ago they had an indulged meeting, but by some arbitrary pro- 
 ceeding of a few Friends at Le Ray it Avas discontinued, and 
 these families left destitute, being sixteen miles or more from 
 Friends' meeting. My concern in coming here was to have 
 them all collected with their neighbours, and to hold a meet- 
 ing at ten o'clock on seventh-day, A. M., but there seemed 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 389 
 
 nobody to take sufficient interest to promote sucli a meeting, 
 though I mentioned it several times during the evening. My 
 companion, J. R., then took his horse, procured a saddle, and 
 went four miles to the house of an old acquaintance, where 
 he stayed the night, and nothing was done till next morning. I 
 was closely tried, but found patience and resignation necessary 
 in my lonely state, and had a good night's rest. 
 
 On seventh-day morning, the 25th, it rained very fast, and 
 "was a dark, gloomy morning, outwardly and inwardly. Near 
 breakfast time J. L., a young Friend of the village, came in 
 and said he had been very busy in procuring a place and 
 spreading information of the meeting, but that divers could 
 not attend, owing to other engagements, much to their regret. 
 The place procured was a large steeple-house in the village, 
 but the rain increased, and every thing looked discouraging. 
 My companion had not returned, and I was left alone, and no 
 one came even to show me the way to the place of meeting. 
 At ten o'clock, however, I took my umbrella, inquired the way, 
 and through a heavy shower went on foot and alone to the 
 house. The clouds and smoke, commingled, produced an in- 
 creasing darkness in the atmosphere, and the rain, being dis- 
 coloured by the thick smoke, stained what it fell upon, so as to 
 leave a visible mark. At the steeple-house I met with the 
 young Friend before mentioned, who showed me the way into 
 the clerk's seat, where I sat down on an elegant cushion ; the 
 desk also was richly ornamented. The pulpit overhead I did 
 not notice, for all these gaudy appendages of human pride and 
 priestly vanity were far from afiFording consolation to my tri- 
 bulated mind ; they attracted but a momentary observation — 
 barely sufficient to give the above description, and excite my 
 pity for the blindness of my fellow-creatures. J. L. sat eight 
 or ten feet from me, no one else was nearer, I believe, than as 
 many yards. The rain was pouring down ; and from a leak in 
 the lofty steeple over my head descended a cascade of drops 
 in rapid succession, striking the floor a few feet from my seat, 
 with a noise that could be heard over the whole house, and 
 prompted a man to bring his umbrella and place it so as to re- 
 ceive the drippings with less sound. A very small meeting 
 collected and scattered themselves, one, two, or three in a 
 
390 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 1828. 
 
 place, up-stairs and down, over the house — amounting probably 
 to between twenty and thirty in a house of sufficient dimen- 
 sions to contain as many hundreds. After a while my mind 
 was livingly opened, and I arose with the expression that a 
 Christian should never give way to discouragement when en- 
 deavouring to perform his duty. The subject was opened, 
 illustrated, and connected with various views tending to en- 
 courage the sincere-hearted and inform the seeking mind, 
 and was followed by a peaceful calm and renewed consolation 
 in the evidence of Divine love and goodness attendant. 
 
 Soon after I sat down, the darkness, which had been accu- 
 mulating for some time, became so thick that one could not 
 recognise the countenance of another at a few yards distance, 
 though the house had very large high windows in abundance ; 
 and when meeting closed a little before twelve, we could disco- 
 ver candles burning in many houses in the village, and a large 
 cotton factory was lighted up as though it were night. We 
 dined by candlelight at twelve o'clock. Though the rain had 
 abated, the clouds appeared very dark, with apertures of a 
 gloomy redness, occasioned by the smoke. It was literally 
 "a day of darkness," such as I never before beheld ; "a day 
 of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and of thick dark- 
 ness." My companion and several Friends did not reach the 
 meeting until near the time of the close, owing to the storm. 
 After dinner we set out, having G. J. Knight for a guide, (the 
 roads being very wet and slippery,) and travelled sixteen miles 
 to J. Strickland's house, where we arrived about dark, having 
 passed over about five miles of very difficult road near Le Ray- 
 ville. In one place a tree had fallen across the road, and no 
 way but to go over it, which was effected by gathering logs 
 and making a bridge. This part of the road furnished a strik- 
 ing picture, or rather specimen, of the difficulties of early set- 
 tlers in travelling from place to place, and gave me a renewed 
 feeling of sympathy toward them in some of the trials attend- 
 ing their temporal concerns. 
 
 Notice having been promptly and industriously circulated 
 by two or three lively-spirited Friends, we attended Indian 
 River meeting on first-day morning. A considerable gather- 
 ing, and very attentive. It was a good meeting, in which 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 391 
 
 doctrine and counsel flowed freely in the love of the ever- 
 lasting gospel, and many minds I trust rejoiced in the good- 
 ness and mercy of Israel's unslumbering Shepherd, manifested 
 to us this day. Friends here are quite a minority of the 
 members, but continue to hold their meetings regularly, and 
 if faithful, will give such demonstration of their faith, by 
 their works of meekness, gentleness, and love, as will gain a 
 place in the minds of others. After I sat down, a young 
 woman arose and adverted to the state of David and Saul; 
 the former had suffered much by the envy and persecuting 
 spirit of Saul, but at length the house of David grew stronger 
 and stronger, and the house of Saul weaker and weaker. So 
 be it, saith my spirit. 
 
 A meeting being appointed for us at Le Rayville at three 
 o'clock, eight miles off, and over difficult roads, we set out 
 immediately after the close of the morning meeting, and with- 
 out taking any dinner but some cakes as we rode along, we 
 reached Le Rayville about the time appointed. Only one or 
 two Friends remain firm here, and yet the house was crowded 
 with people. It was a blessed, heavenly meeting. Truth rose 
 into dominion over all, and it proved a baptizing time to many 
 minds. We went on to Douglas Wright's thirteen miles, dined 
 there, and had a small meeting in the afternoon in a school- 
 house near his home. It was not so lively as some, and yet 
 I trust a seeking seed was watered. Yesterday was a day of 
 remarkably clear sky and pleasant weather, succeeding the 
 gloomy, stormy season that occurred on seventh-day, and pre- 
 sented an encouraging evidence that the most depressing 
 seasons of inward conflict and tempest may be followed by the 
 clear, calm sunshine of Divine consolation and peace. This 
 morning was also clear and calm, but toward evening it 
 clouded up and commenced raining, which increased during 
 the night, so as again to render the travelling very unpleasant; 
 much of the soil in this country being a slippery dark-coloured 
 clay. 
 
 28th. Accompanied by D. W. and wife and J. S., we set 
 out early, the weather clearing, and reached Lowville in 
 season. The house was pretty well filled, and some of our 
 orthodox Friends attended. It was a meeting evidently 
 
392 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 owned by the presence of Him -who is a present helper in 
 every needful time. T. T. his son and their families "were all 
 present, with whom we went to dine and lodge. 
 
 29th. We travelled on again through very heavy roads till 
 nearly dark, when we reached the house of J. B. at Lee. He 
 agreed to entertain us for the night, but was much reserved 
 in conversation. He appeared like a sincere-hearted man. 
 As there seemed to be no channel open for conversation, I 
 took up a quarto Bible and commenced reading and making 
 occasional remarks on the history of Jacob, that of Joseph, 
 of Elijah, and the reference in Stephen's sermon to the op- 
 pression of the Israelites in Egypt, as also of the call of 
 Moses, and the figure of his putting off his shoes at the 
 Divine command, that every step he took in that great work 
 of deliverance might be in the pure unobstructed feeling of 
 the holy ground of Divine direction. Divers interesting parts 
 of the history of the Apostles, and the doctrines and parables 
 of Jesus Christ were also brought into view, and interested 
 the whole company, and the evening passed as agreeably as 
 could be expected. 
 
 During the pensive tedious ride of the day, my mind had 
 been livingly opened and introduced into a feeling of the 
 sufferings of Jesus, when he was rejected of the elders, the 
 chief priests, and the scribes. And the reference of the 
 Apostle to "filling up that which remains of the afflictions of 
 Christ for his body's sake, which is his church," was also pre- 
 sented to my view, as an exercise of silent travail, in deep 
 sympathy with the seed of life in the minds of the children 
 of men who are under the influence of prejudices. This load 
 of suffering on account of the hardness and darkness of the 
 hearts of others, may yet be felt by the faithful ambassadors 
 of the Prince of Peace, and thus the weight of the sins of 
 mankind be laid on the servants of Christ as described by John 
 Woolman, when he passed through this suffering and said, "I 
 felt the depth and extent of the misery of my fellow-creatures, 
 separated from the Divine harmony, and it was heavier than 
 I could bear, and I was crushed down under it." 
 
 30th. This morning I had a conversation with J. B. respect- 
 ing having a meeting at Lee, which he said he could not en- 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IX NEW YORK. 393 
 
 courage on account of others, althougli as to himself, if a 
 meeting were appointed, he should attend it. He said they 
 were all united and did not wish any division or disturbance. 
 I assured him my concern was to promote unity and harmony, 
 and peace and love, on the only sure basis that could sustain 
 such a happy feeling. This foundation he admitted was the 
 operation of the pure principle of Truth in the heart; and 
 this I told him was the origin of my concern in leaving my 
 home and family to travel in this land, and that the same 
 Divine love that called me forth flowed to all, without respect 
 to names, divisions, sects, or parties. He still declined doing 
 any thing to promote a religious opportunity with the people. 
 So after endeavouring to impress his mind with the solemn 
 consideration of his accountability, for rejecting the offer of a 
 visit of love to the people here, we left him with acknowledg- 
 ments of his kindness in entertaining us. His wife is an 
 amiable, open, friendly woman. 
 
 We went on to J. P.'s, who was an elder. He was from 
 home, so we left a message with his wife respecting our con- 
 cern to have a meeting, which we requested her to communi- 
 cate to her husband, and if way opened let us know. 
 But we heard no more from them. J. Strickland, Jr., then 
 went on to Western meeting, to consult Friends there about 
 our having a meeting ; but no way opened, though they were 
 plead with on behalf of the concern of a stranger for their 
 good. J. S. then joined us at the house of R. Nesbit. Thus 
 my concern for the comfort and edification of Friends at 
 these two meetings is rejected. But as I have professed the 
 peaceable, nonresisting spirit of the Lamb, which teaches, 
 "When they will not receive you in one city, flee unto 
 another," I must leave them. My soul pities that spirit that, 
 through fear of man, would prevent the seed of the kingdom 
 from being watered in the minds of the little children of the 
 heavenly Father's family. When their refusal was com- 
 municated to me, an offer was made to have a meeting ap- 
 pointed at each place, near if not in each meeting-house. 
 This offer brought my mind into a close exercise. A tender 
 concern for the strength and encouragement of the few 
 Friends here, and that their way may be more opened among 
 
394 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 their neighbours, seemed as though it might be promoted by 
 having a meeting among them. But again, these orthodox 
 members are nearly all such as have joined Friends by con- 
 vincement, and the present convulsions in society have 
 alarmed them. They have <' heard a great tumult, but know 
 not what it means." Thus I felt most easy not to cari-y the 
 thing over their heads, and in opposition to their judgment, 
 after first asking them, but endeavoured to manifest a gentle, 
 Christian spirit, that cannot strive for mastery. So I left 
 the concern on the shoulders of those who, by a refusal, took 
 the responsibility on themselves. It may become a burden 
 that may prove heavier than they are now aware of, and may 
 break down their prejudices more than any thing else. But 
 way opened to sit with twenty or thirty of the friendly neigh- 
 bours of R. N., at his house (it being four or five miles from 
 each meeting.) It was a satisfactory season, strengthening 
 and encouraging to this deeply tried Friend. It tended also 
 to open the way for the spreading of Truth among them, and 
 dispelled the mists of prejudice which an orthodox spirit 
 among the Methodists as well as Friends had attempted to 
 raise against R. N. and other faithful Friends. R. N. had not 
 a right in our society until about eight or ten years past, when 
 he joined it by convincement. He now appears to be firmly 
 grounded in the principles of Truth as professed by Friends, 
 "and almost alone in this place in maintaining them against 
 the innovations in doctrine and practice now apparent. 
 
 After much interesting conversation with R. N. and J. S., 
 we parted with them, and proceeded through a rich, level 
 country, five miles to Rome, then down the canal fifteen miles 
 to Utica. In this day's ride, my mind (as oft before) was 
 drawn into inward stillness, though my companion seemed 
 disposed for converse on home afiairs. We arrived at Utica 
 near evening, and a large package of letters from my dear 
 native land was gladly received, and furnished cause for 
 grateful acknowledgments to the Preserver of men, in that 
 the health of my family is continued while I am thus far 
 separated from them. 
 
 Eleventh month 1st. — Spent this day in Utica, and as the 
 prospect opened of going on to the meetings composing 
 
Chap. XIII. ] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 395 
 
 Bridgewater monthly meeting, I had an opportunity of seeing 
 an elder from Westmoreland meeting. To him I opened my 
 concern to have a meeting there, informing that my ob- 
 ject was to promote peace and love ; but he seemed afraid, 
 and would not agree to spread notice till he had consulted his 
 friends at home, but invited me to call at his house. Another 
 Friend from Brookfield called, and to him I opened my pros- 
 pect of a visit to their meeting. He said he wanted to ask 
 me some questions ; to which I assented, requesting him to be 
 entirely free. He said he did it to gain information, and I 
 believe he was sincere. His first interrogation was, " Whether 
 I believed in the divinity of our Saviom-, and that we had re- 
 mission of sins through his blood?" Certainly, said I. I 
 never entertained a doubt on the subject. But it is possible 
 my views may differ from those entertained by some other 
 professors in relation to the meaning and application of the 
 term "blood." Some appear to suppose it is the outward 
 blood that was shed on the outward cross at Jerusalem, more 
 than eighteen hundred years ago. My belief is, that, accord- 
 ing to the explanation given by Moses in the law, "the blood 
 is the life," and that we have remission of sins through the 
 life of Christ being raised in us and becoming our life, by our 
 obedience to the light of Christ in us. Thus, through the 
 cross and the denial of self, we come to know a ceasing to do 
 evil and a turning away from all iniquity, and then learning 
 to do well, or to live righteously and godly in this present 
 world ; our iniquities are forgiven, and "remembered no more 
 against us," agreeable to the declaration of the Almighty by 
 the mouth of his prophet Ezekiel. Thus we are reconciled 
 by his death, the death of the cross, and saved by his life in 
 us. <' For in that he died, he died unto sin once, but in that 
 he liveth, he liveth unto God;" and "because" (or, for the 
 very cause that) "he liveth, we shall live also," with more of 
 like import. To which he fully assented, but wanted to know 
 my views of the propitiatory sacrifice on the cross, as an 
 atonement for the sins of the world; though he said "it was 
 only the body that died ; the spirit could not die or be killed." 
 I told him I could not find the term a "propitiatory sacrifice" 
 in the Scriptures, and the application of such a term to tho 
 
396 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 death of Jesus on the cross I thought unwarrantable. The 
 apostle John said, <<He is the propitiation for our sins," 
 which I fully believed in ; but this did not allude to the body, 
 the manhood that died on the outward cross. It was the 
 Spirit of Truth operating in us, to produce, by our uniting 
 with it, a state of acceptance or reconciliation with God. 
 But he still turned to the outward body, that he said ascended 
 up into heaven. I told him the Scriptures nowhere said the 
 outward body ascended into heaven, though it declared that 
 he was taken up, and a cloud received him out of the sight 
 of his gazing disciples ; that the cloud still hid his spiritual 
 manifestation from all those who were gazing after the out- 
 ward body ; and this was an instructive figure or parable to 
 such who could not discover his spiritual appearance, but 
 through the dispelling of the cloud in their own minds. We 
 then had the passage read, and the instruction of the angel 
 to the disciples opened in its application to the same state of 
 mind now. But he still could not take his eyes from an out- 
 ward heaven above the clouds, and turned to the passage 
 where it says, " He was parted from them, and went up into 
 heaven." That, he was answered, was true, but it did not 
 say the body "went up into heaven," and if it had allusion 
 to the same event as the other, (which he admitted,) then as 
 to the body, the "cloud" and the "heaven" would mean the 
 same thing, according to a common mode of expression. 
 But if it meant the spiritual heaven, (into which flesh and 
 blood could not enter,) then it was the spirit of Christ and 
 not the body, that "went up into heaven." 
 
 He appeared to be sincere in his inquiries, though clouded 
 in his views, and I recommended him to attend to the light 
 already received, and which convinced him clearly of his 
 duty. Obedience to this would enlarge his understanding so 
 that he would be prepared to receive further manifestations 
 of the mysteries of the kingdom. But he wanted to know 
 how he should ascertain the truth, for there was so much de- 
 ception in the world — one said this was truth, and another 
 that ; and even in what was opened to the mind there was no 
 certainty, because Satan was transformed into an angel of 
 light. I felt much sympathy for him, and told him he might 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 397 
 
 try the spirits and the openings, as he called them ; and that 
 if he would abide in the patience, keeping his mind calm and 
 quiet, remembering "the true believer maketh not haste," he 
 would discover this important difference between what he 
 called the suggestions of Satan transformed into an angel of 
 light, and the revelations of Christ, the Spirit of Truth : — 
 the first were unstable ; the mind easily jostled, and troubled 
 with doubts and perplexities, which were an evidence that 
 this was a sandy foundation ; the latter, the openings of Truth, 
 or the Spirit of God, were always steady, settled, and clear, 
 giving evidence of their origin, by the calmness and confi- 
 dence in which the mind rested, as on a Rock : that thus the 
 true believer had the witness in himself, and was not in haste 
 or doubting, and that in this patient, quiet state. Truth thus 
 revealed would always become more clear as it was investi- 
 gated. It is on this sure foundation that the church of Christ 
 is built, and according to the promise, " The gates of hell 
 shall not prevail against it." 
 
 On first-day morning my companion, J. Roberts, met me, 
 accompanied by J. Frost, from North Street, Scipio. Friends at 
 Utica are in a very tried condition, but they continue to keep 
 up their meetings at their meeting-house. Information had 
 been spread of my being there, and the meeting was an emi- 
 nently favoured season. Truth rose into dominion over all, 
 and the hearts of most if not all present were comforted and 
 edified. At the close, a Friend stood up and proposed our 
 holding another meeting here in the evening. Something had 
 previously passed respecting it, but the proposal was now un- 
 expected, and put me to a little stand. The meeting sat 
 waiting, and after a pause, in which I felt an openness to ac- 
 cede to it, I rose and informed the company that if no objec- 
 tions appeared I should be willing to have a meeting for the 
 inhabitants of the town at seven o'clock in the evening. This 
 was quickly agreed to, and I went to dine with S. P. 
 
 In the evening had a large and very respectable meeting 
 of the towns-people. The Universalist minister and several 
 doctors and men in eminent stations attended, and all were 
 very c[niet and deeply attentive. A solemnity attended after 
 I sat down that seemed to enfold all in solemn feeling, and 
 
398 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 mj soul rejoiced in God my Saviour for the help and utter- 
 ance mercifully furnished, so that the few Friends belonging 
 to that meeting were comforted and strengthened, in the wav 
 that was made for their enlargement in the minds of their fel- 
 low-citizens. My sympathy had been nearly excited toward 
 them, and now I rejoiced in the evidence that they were not 
 forsaken; and I felt relieved from further service there, 
 except a little parting opportunity with a roomful of Friends 
 at S. Estis's, after meeting. 
 
 No way opened for a meeting, until third day at Verona we 
 had an interesting one. Lodged at A. R.'s. 
 
 Eleventh month 5th. — A rainy morning, the roads exceed- 
 ingly muddy, but we set out for Bridgewater, twenty-five 
 miles. My mind depressed under various considerations, but 
 not in despair. Lodged at J. M.'s, and on fifth-day had a 
 very good though small meeting at Bridgewater. After din- 
 ner set out for Burlington to see the few Friends there. 
 
 Next afternoon had a meeting held at L-a Cone's. It was 
 small, but dear old Caleb Hoag attended, having come three 
 miles through the rain. He is a meek-spirited example among 
 them. Went home with J. A. and stayed the night. Were 
 kindly entertained, and invited to come again, if in our way. 
 
 Next morning Joseph accompanied us to E. R. Green's, at 
 Laurens. He imm-ediately sent out his sons, and collected a 
 meeting by three o'clock P. M. It was held at his house, 
 because the use of the meeting-house was denied us. 
 
 On first-day, the 9th, we attended meeting at Maryland, or 
 Crum Horn, where are about twenty members. 
 
 Within two weeks past I have been through a tract of coun- 
 try including sixteen or seventeen little meetings. Many 
 have shut themselves up from intercourse or communion with 
 those whom they once esteemed their friends. My heart has 
 mourned for them. There needs settlement, and quietness, 
 and stability. The waters are yet upon the earth in their 
 minds, but a hope is felt that these will abate continually, till 
 the olive leaf of peace may be seen, and the firm ground 
 again appear. 
 
 Went, after meeting, to dine at A. W.'s; lodged at J. C.'s, 
 twelve miles distant. His wife not a member, and himself 
 
Chap. XIIL] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 399 
 
 had been received but a short time. We found him an intc» 
 resting man, and enlightened beyond the narrow bounds of 
 educational prejudices and traditions. He had been educated 
 among the Presbyterians, but of latter years had become dis- 
 satisfied with many of their forms and external observances, and 
 in his inquiries after Truth he had discovered a source of Divine 
 instruction and illumination in his own mind, that he for some 
 time thought peculiar to himself, not knowing that any one 
 had similar views. In this state he declined associating with 
 the Presbyterians, Baptists, and Methodists, and notwithstand- 
 ing they repeatedly visited him, in order to induce him to join 
 society with them severally, yet he found no comfort nor 
 satisfaction in their visits, for they could not understand his 
 views and feelings. He therefore was about coming to the 
 conclusion (and mentioned it to his wife) that he thought he 
 should never join any religious society. Some time after this 
 he felt a strong inclination to go to Friends' meeting, for as yet 
 he was unacquainted with that people, and their princij)les and 
 views. He accordingly went, and felt satisfied and comforted 
 in the solemnity of silent worship. This induced him to get 
 acquainted with some Friends, who furnished him with books, 
 which he read, and was surprised to find the doctrine and 
 views which Friends held so much in accordance with what 
 had previously been opened in his own mind. After a time, 
 he felt it his duty to request to be admitted as a member, and 
 was accordingly received. 
 
 In the evening, after much conversation, in which I felt 
 most easy to decline taking a part, a pause ensued, when a 
 stranger present, not a Friend, informed J. C. that the con- 
 versation they had had respecting the being called the Devil, 
 had stuck by him, and had produced many thoughts respect- 
 ing the origin of evil in man ; and as he had not become satis- 
 fied thereon, he wished to have §ome further conversation with 
 him, and he also would like to hear the opinions of these gen- 
 tlemen (meaning J. R. and myself) on the subject. I felt 
 interested in the honesty of his inquiring mind, and I told 
 him I perceived he was pursuing an interesting investigation, 
 one which had occupied my attention some years ago, and had 
 at length been satisfactorily opened to my understanding, so 
 
400 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 that I had never since entertained a doubt about it. This 
 drew from him a request to have my views at large on that 
 question ; so I stated to him, in substance, as follows. 
 
 In the first place, man is to be considered as a being com- 
 posed of two natures ; the one animal, or earthly, the other 
 spiritual. The body is the animal, made of the earth, and 
 supported and nourished by the earth, as other inferior animals. 
 This animal body has inclinations, desires, and propensities 
 like those of other animals, to eat, to drink, to seek amuse- 
 ment or pleasure, in a variety of ways, according to its in- 
 clinations and powers of attainment. The spiritual part, or 
 soul of man, being of a higher origin and nature, was and is 
 designed for immortality and the enjoyment of a happiness 
 suited to its nature and dignity ; that is, a spiritual happiness 
 to all eternity, called eternal life. From these two natures in 
 man arises his probationary state. The animal propensities 
 seek their gratification in animal pleasures, and thus constitute 
 the "lusts of the flesh." The soul, being of spiritual origin 
 and nature, is furnished with a spiritual law and power to 
 govern the animal or inferior nature. This is "the law of the 
 spirit of life," or law of God written in the heart, and this 
 " law is light," "the true light, that lighteth every man that 
 Cometh into the world." Hence, whenever the animal pro- 
 pensities are yielded to, beyond the limitation of this law, sin 
 is committed, for "sin is the transgression of the law." 
 Hence, also, man, being endowed with the power of choice, 
 and freedom of will, can either yield himself to be the servant 
 of sin or the servant of righteousness. " Know ye not," says 
 the apostle, " that to Avhom ye yield yourselves servants to 
 obey, his servants ye are, whether of sin unto death or of 
 obedience unto righteousness." From this practical experi- 
 mental view of the state and condition of man, it is easy to 
 perceive that the origin of evil is in man. God created 
 nothing but what was good ; evil, therefore, is produced by 
 man's abuse of the powers with which he is endowed : " Let 
 no man say when he is tempted that he is tempted of God, 
 for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any 
 man ; but every man, when he is tempted, is drawn away of 
 his own lust and enticed" — "is drawn away" from his alle- 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 401 
 
 giance and obedience to the Divine law, by exercising his 
 power of choice to follow the inclination of his fleshly lust, 
 and thereby "enticed" to indulge himself in seeking or pur- 
 suing a carnal gratification in preference to his duty to God ; 
 and then, when his own "lust hath conceived" the desire of 
 sensual happiness, it bringeth forth sin, and sin, when it 
 is finished, "bringeth forth death." This plain doctrine of the 
 Apostle James is an illustration of the doctrine of Christ, 
 that it is not that which enters into a man that defileth a man, 
 but that which cometh out of him ; for from within, out of 
 the heart of man, proceed evil thoughts, &c. and these are 
 they which defile a man. But all these proceed from " the 
 lusts of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life," 
 from the animal propensities, the earthy nature of man. This 
 is further illustrated by the apostle: "If ye live after the 
 flesh ye shall die ; but if ye, through the spirit, do mortify 
 the deeds of the flesh, ye shall live." And again : "Walk in 
 the spirit and ye shall not fulfil the lusts of the flesh." In- 
 deed, the whole tenor of the doctrines of Christ and of his dis- 
 ciples goes to establish this view of the origin, and nature, and 
 effects of evil, of sin. Hence watchfulness unto prayer is 
 enjoined ; hence striving, labouring, and overcoming are en- 
 titled to the promise and reward ; hence the parables and in- 
 structions of Christ point to this inward work, to make the 
 tree good, and its fruit will be good also. 
 
 But the inquirer wants to knoAV what is meant by the ser- 
 pent that tempted Eve in the garden of Eden. 
 
 We before adverted to the first, or earthly nature of man, 
 as saith the Apostle, "The first man is of the earth, earthy." 
 He was made "of the dust of the ground," as other animals, 
 his composition being of the same earthy materials ; and 
 being superior to all the rest, when he contemplates himself, 
 he finds the natures of the inferior animals contained within 
 himself; he perceives the various inclinations of the lower 
 orders of animal nature operating in himself, and tending to 
 seek the same kinds of animal happiness with the inferior 
 orders of beasts, birds, reptiles, &c. Hence he is led to per- 
 ceive that he is a compound of all these inferior animal na- 
 tures combined in himself in various degrees, and hence he 
 26 
 
402 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 perceives, in tlie predominance of some over others, tlie infi- 
 nite diversity of the tastes and inclinations, and ruling pur- 
 suits among mankind. Here, also, he comes to understand 
 (as he becomes acquainted with himself, through the medium 
 of that Spirit or "breath of life" by which he is inspired of 
 the Almighty) how God brought all these unto Adam, to see 
 Avhat he Avould call them ; and wdiatsoever Adam called the 
 name of every living creature, that was the name, the nature 
 thereof in himself; and that this knowledge thus divinely de- 
 rived, was essentially necessary for him, and for every man, 
 in order to have " dominion over the birds of the air, the 
 beasts of the field, and over every living thing that creepeth 
 upon the earth," or moves in his earthy nature to produce 
 the inclination and desire of action. This heavenly govern- 
 ment constitutes the kingdom of heaven, or of God, in man. 
 But among all these animal natures, the nature of the ser- 
 pent also is found ; and his nature being known, he also may 
 be kept in his proper place, and in subordination. Eve, know- 
 ing the bounds of the Divine law, and how far the privilege 
 of eating or pursuing the inclinations of the animal propen- 
 sities extended, suffered the lust of the eye to entice her be- 
 yond this limitation ; and the nature of the serpent in her 
 earthy composition being "more subtile than any other beast 
 of the field" of her heart, she, in this serpentine subtility, be- 
 gan to reason with herself, and endeavour to invent a way to 
 get round or evade the cross, so as to indulge this lust. 
 Hence she is represented as holding a dialogue with the ser- 
 pent, and all men may read the same kind of serpentine 
 reasoning in themselves vrhen they are tempted to disobey 
 the known law of God, written in their hearts. In the first 
 place, a doubt arises whether the law is clear and positive, 
 as described in the question — "yea," indeed, is it certain — 
 "Hath God said, ye shall not eat of the trees of the gar- 
 den?" Are all the inclinations and desires to be mortified 
 and crossed ? " Nay ! God hath said we may eat of the trees 
 of the garden, but of the tree of knowledge of good and evil 
 we may not eat, lest we should die." This shows the struggle 
 of the ficsh lusting against the spirit, and the spirit against 
 or opposite to the lust of the flesh. But again the serpentine 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 403 
 
 earthly wisdom gaining strength by this yielding, or doubting, 
 as the phrase "lest ye die" shows. The next step of entice- 
 ment^ is the conclusion "ye shall not certainly die ;" the 
 penalty of disobedience will not surely ensue, " for God doth 
 know, that in the day ye eat thereof, your eyes shall be 
 opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil." 
 Hence the serpentine reasoning in the lust of the eye, pre- 
 sumed to penetrate the knowledge of God, and that pursuing 
 this gratification of the animal inclination the eyes should be 
 opened, the capacity of happiness enlarged, and the acquisi- 
 tion of it increased to be even as gods. Here the enticement 
 of this lust of animal inclination conceived, and when she 
 therein saw that " it was good for food, and a tree to be de- 
 sired to make one wise, she took thereof and did eat." Thus 
 the sin of undertaking to decide and judge for herself, what 
 was good and what was evil, independent of the Divine law, 
 when it was finished brought forth death, the loss of the Di- 
 vine image, or life of peace and innocence, unhappiness to the 
 soul, as the wages or consequences of yielding the members 
 the servants of sin. 
 
 This figurative description of the temptation and fall of 
 the first pair, is found to be a sad reality in the experience of 
 every one that acts contrary to what he knows to be right, 
 and may be perceived by a careful attention to the workings 
 of the mind, in which the plausible reasonings of the flesh, 
 or animal cunning, are suffered to blind the eye of the mind, 
 so that it becomes evil, and then the whole body becomes filled 
 with darkness. On the contrary, if the power of choice in 
 the exercise of free-will, is used to resist the first motion or 
 inclination of the animal propensities to go beyond the known 
 law or will of God, then the yoke or cross being laid thereon, 
 the mind is preserved in peace. The animal or earthly na- 
 ture is regulated and governed by the Divine law, and har- 
 mony and peace prevail. Here the doctrine of the cross 
 and self-denial is applied to the first motion, which, if in- 
 dulged, would lead to sin. Here is realized the death of 
 Christ, essential for every one to know, " for in that he died, 
 he died unto sin once, but in that he liveth, he liveth unto 
 God." This being experienced, man knows a walking "in 
 
404 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 the spirit, and the lusts of the flesh have no dominion over 
 him." As Paul, he keeps his hody under ; he dies daily to 
 every motion that would arise in his earthly nature, and lead 
 him into the bondage of sin. Here the watch is maintained, 
 and the dominion is maintained in the life, and spirit, and 
 power of God, ruling in the soul and producing the fruits of 
 righteousness and peace. Here the discovery is plainly made 
 that the origin of evil is in man, and that sin is the trans- 
 gression of the law of God ; for where there is no law, there 
 is no transgression, consequently no sin, no evil. Where 
 there is nothing to show man what is to be denied in himself 
 there can be no self-denial. But if any man is willing to be 
 a disciple of Christ, the light and law of God given to man 
 for his salvation, he must deny himself, take up his cross and 
 follow Christ as the light makes manifest. This comprehends 
 his whole business. 
 
 From Maryland we proceeded alone toward Duanesburg. 
 Lodged at a tavern. Next morning rode eight or nine miles 
 to breakfast, then went on to Isaac Gaige's hospitable mansion, 
 where I had been thirteen years ago. 
 
 On reviewing my joixrney among these Western meetings, 
 belonging to this quarter, some painful reflections arise, not 
 only from the unsettled condition of Friends, but also by 
 reason of the prostration of some of those precious testimonies 
 which our religious society as a people have borne to the world. 
 In one of these small meetings there are six or seven young 
 men Avho are the subjects of the operation of a militia law in 
 this state, which imposes a fine of four dollars annually on 
 delinquents, or fourteen days imprisonment. Two of these 
 young men, although married and settled with property about 
 them, had been arrested by an ofiicer, and taken forthwith to 
 the county jail at Cooperstown, where they lay the full time 
 required by a law, that makes no provision for their main- 
 tenance there. Of course they must suffer famine, were it 
 not for the care of their friends. These two young men had 
 just returned to their wives and little children when I saw 
 them, and they appeared to have sufi'ered conscientiously, and 
 maintained their testimony with dignity. But, alas ! not so 
 with some of the others — the fine was paid; and in one case, 
 
Chap. XIII. ] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 405 
 
 when the officer was about to take the son to prison, the 
 father said to him that he woukl need some money to defray 
 his expenses there, so gave him a five-dollar note in presence 
 of the officer, to whom the son forthwith gave the money, 
 which just covered the fine and costs, and he was released 
 from further trouble. Thus the discipline can be evaded or 
 trampled upon, for there appears no strength nor zeal left to 
 maintain it in this time of tumult and agitation. 
 
 On fourth-day, the 12th of eleventh month, I attended 
 the select meeting at Duanesburg. In the general quarter 
 held next day, my labours tended to invite them to deep 
 inward stillness, and that ancient command was opened to 
 their view in the renewings of life, "Keep silence before me, 
 ye islands, and let the people renew their strength." In 
 this state of silence, the desire to remain firm while sur- 
 rounded by the billows of the present agitated state of society 
 may be strengthened, and "the Lord" exalted "on high" in 
 their tribulated souls may be known to be " mightier than 
 the noise of many waters, yea than the mighty waves of the 
 sea." 
 
 At the quarterly meeting. Friends appeared to manage 
 their business in much harmony and brotherly kindness. A 
 public meeting was held next day, which was large. To those 
 assembled were held up to view the doctrines of peace and 
 love, of stillness and quietude — illustrated from the text, 
 "Study to be quiet and do thy own business;" to which was 
 added, as a lively figure of the goodness and mercy of God to 
 the poor, the weak, and impotent, an exemplification of the 
 pool of Bethesda and the healing of the impotent man there, 
 and these circumstances applied to the state of many present. 
 It was a solemn, instructive season, and closed under feelings 
 of brotherly love. Such opportunities among Friends and 
 their inquiring neighbours of other societies, tend to the en- 
 largement and comfort of the exercised burden-bearers. 
 
 After parting with Friends of Duanesburg, we set out for 
 Half Moon Valley. Next day, notice having been spread, we 
 attended their first-day meeting, and it was a comfortable one. 
 Many neighbours attended, and the doctrine of loving one 
 another was largely opened and illustrated, and Truth reigned 
 
406 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1828. 
 
 over all opposing spirits, some of whom were constrained to 
 acknowledge the truth of the testimony delivered that day. 
 
 This evening had the company of Ichabod Merritt, who 
 lives with his grandchildren, L. and C. Gary. He is about 
 eighty-four yeai'S of age, and remembers my former visit 
 here, as he then accompanied us to Duanesburg, and though 
 now prevented by the infirmities of age from getting to meet- 
 ing, remains firm in the principles of Friends, and is full of 
 love, and green in old age. It was a satisfaction to be with 
 him ; he feels tried with his lonely situation, but seems furnished 
 with much patience and resignation. 
 
 On second-day morning, the 17th of eleventh month, set 
 out alone for Saratoga, travelled up the turnpike between the 
 North River and the canal some miles, and reached G. G.'s, where 
 we were kindly welcomed. Here received letters from home, 
 and rested and wrote till next day. At two P.M. the select 
 quarterly meeting began. I had considerable service among 
 them. Next day a snow-storm came on, but we attended the 
 general quarterly meeting; business conducted with order, 
 solemnity, and life. I plead for mercy and forbearance toward 
 those of their brethren Avho had left them. 
 
 The public meeting on fifth-day was a favoured one. Truth 
 rose into powerful dominion through vocal testimony, opening 
 the states of the various soils in which the seed of the kingdom 
 is sown, and holding up the language of encouragement to the 
 faithful, who are willing to break up the fallow ground, and 
 to labour for the removal of every thing that obstructs the 
 coming of the kingdom of heaven in the soul. It was a season 
 to be remembered with gratitude to Him who gave mouth 
 and wisdom, 'ongue and utterance. Blessed be his holy name 
 for ever. 
 
 Saratoga quarter was set off from Easton and opened in 
 eleventh month, 1815. Now there is a goodly appearance 
 of plain, honest-hearted Friends, but more depth of religious 
 exercise is wanting in some. The present trials may be a 
 means, if rightly improved, of settling the sincere on the im- 
 movable foundation. The multitude of conversation, in almost 
 every circle of social intercourse, on the conduct of those who 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 407 
 
 have separated from them, is like the "strangers that are 
 wasting their strength, and they appear not to know it." 
 
 On sixth-day, the 21st of eleventh month, had a meet- 
 ing at Milton; dined at C. B.'s. He had come home through 
 a heavy rain last evening in order to spread notice, and had 
 been very diligent therein, so that a considerable company 
 was collected, and it was a memorable season. At the close, 
 Caleb, with tears in his eyes, acknowledged his great satis- 
 faction in having exerted himself to invite his neighbours, 
 under the evidence that a renewed visitation had been ex- 
 tended to them. May it be fastened as a nail in a sure place, 
 to the glory of the great Husbandman. 
 
 Lodged at S. M.'s, and set out early next morning to attend 
 a meeting appointed for us at Galway. This also was a 
 favoured season, and Friends were comforted and edified 
 together under a sense of Divine favour, showing that the 
 heavenly Shepherd is mindful of his sheep in this day of 
 scattering and alarm. Dined at N. L.'s, and set out through 
 a heavy snow-storm to travel fourteen miles to Mayfield; 
 reached N. B.'s about eio;ht in the evening, and felt thankful 
 for preservation and the many favours still vouchsafed to us. 
 Next day, being first of the week, attended meeting at May- 
 field. Several men of some note were there, and appeared 
 deeply attentive to the doctrines of the gospel of peace and 
 love held forth among them. Found some tender-spirited 
 Friends here, who are deeply tried with the separation ; 
 parents and children being parted asunder, and many know 
 not the cause. 
 
 On second-day we had a meeting at Providence. Several 
 of those who had separated from Friends voluntarily attended. 
 All seemed baptized into a feeling of peace and good-Avill, and 
 a hope was livingly felt that the labour of this day will not be 
 in vain. 
 
 In these small and remotely situated meetings are a number 
 of sincere seekers after Truth, and the solemnity that is felt 
 in our meetings, gives evidence that many are under the pre- 
 paring hand for acknowledging the pure doctrines of the gos- 
 pel. May the Lord prosper his own work. 
 
 On third-day morning, J, R. set out before day with the car> 
 
408 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 riage and horses, and D. B. and myself in his sleigh about seven 
 o'clock, in order to reach Greenfield, fourteen miles distant, 
 by meeting time. We got on comfortably and seasonably. 
 Called at S. Gilford's before meeting, and his kind-hearted wife 
 set us a cup of tea, after which we attended a pretty large meet- 
 ing there, in which the doctrines of Truth flowed freely to an at- 
 tentive audience, several of whom had rarely been at a Friends' 
 meeting before. In this part of the country the minds of 
 many not of our society are much stirred up. I trust there 
 will be a gathering from the highways and hedges to the mar- 
 riage supper of the King's son. 
 
 After dining with our kind friends, S. & D. Gilford, we set 
 out toward Moreau. J. R. had missed his way in coming on 
 alone with the carriage, but meeting with a Friend of Milton, 
 he was conducted to P. R.'s, and leaving the carriage there, 
 he came on in a sleigh to the meeting in season. Numerous 
 trials attend the path of a traveller, literally and spiritua%. 
 I find it best silently to suffer many things in this exercising 
 journey. But in this discipline of patience I feel sometimes a 
 hope to arise, that whether my labours may be of any advan- 
 tage to others or not, my own advancement in the work of 
 sanctification and redemption may be promoted. 
 
 Eleventh month 26th. — Set out early and got on safely over 
 exceedingly bad roads, near six miles, to William M.'s, a tender- 
 spirited Friend at Moreau, where we had a small meeting, in 
 which the presence of the Master of all rightly gathered as- 
 semblies was felt to the comfort of the mourners, and the 
 encouragement of the honest-hearted. Several neighbours 
 attended with us and manifested much sobriety and attention, 
 and a hope was felt that Truth will yet spread and prevail 
 through the faithfulness of the few that are concerned to "let 
 their lights shine before men." Lodged at A. M.'s, on the 
 Pine Plains. 
 
 On fifth-day attended Queensbury meeting. Dined at 
 J. H.'s. His wife has been exceedingly tried with the sepa- 
 ration, and is still clothed with sackcloth and mourning on 
 account of the loss of so many of her former dear friends, who 
 now appear cold and unfriendly. 
 
 On this subject a person present gave the opinion, "there 
 
Ch.vp. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 409 
 
 was no cause for mourning ; that we ought rather to rejoice." 
 But the expressions of the prophet were referred to: "Weep 
 not for the dead, neither bemoan him, but weep sore for him 
 who is gone into captivity into a far country." Although the 
 cause of Truth may be on its way amidst all these divisions and 
 rendings, and therefore to him that has his eye steadily fixed 
 on this there may be cause of rejoicing, yet to the mind that 
 still feels for his fellow-man there is much cause for niourninor 
 
 o 
 
 and lamentation ; and in this deeply exercising travel I have 
 often been permitted <<to weep with them that weep," and am 
 thankful to feel a willingness to bear their grief and share 
 their sorrows. Thus do I know it is better to go to the hous'e 
 of mourning, to visit in spirit the fatherless and widows in 
 their affliction, than to go to or live in the house of feasting, 
 of mirth, and of rejoicing. A caution arose in my heart against 
 that disposition which might become like the ostrich of the 
 wilderness — unfeeling for the woes of others. 
 
 In passing along I find it needful to be gleaning a little of 
 instruction or caution from the circumstances or occurrences 
 around me, and more especially for the sake of my dear chil- 
 dren, that they may increase in wisdom by avoiding every thing 
 that might mar the beauty and innocence of their minds. Here 
 then I will note the danger and disadvantage of that spirit of self- 
 ishness sometimes called egotism, or making one's-self conspicu- 
 ous in company by frequently holding up ourselves to view, either 
 by repeating our exploits or our own expressions, or bringing our- 
 selves into conspicuous notice by mentioning our acquaintance 
 "with great or good men. Thus in a variety of ways we may 
 give evidence to attentive observers that self-applause is what 
 we seek and love to feed upon. True humility is modest and 
 retired, content to seek the praise and honour that comes from 
 God alone, and indifferent about the praise of men. Hence it 
 dwells in the shades of retirement and quietude. 
 
 30th of eleventh month, being first-day, a large meeting 
 was collected at Easton of the neighbourhood around, but during 
 the fore part, and until nearly the time of closing, it was dull 
 and trying to me. At length a little light arose, and I was 
 qualified to address several states present in close pressing 
 language, in order to induce a speedy compliance with Divine 
 
410 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 requirings, lest the day pass away and they be not gathered. 
 A hope was felt that some impotent and halting minds were 
 stirred up to more exertion and industry. Meeting held late, 
 and much effort was needed to get to Cambridge by three, to 
 attend a meeting appointed for us there. This, though dull 
 at first, proved a good meeting, as light and life arose into 
 dominion, and the sincere-hearted were comforted and encou- 
 raged. This is a small meeting, but there are some lively-ex- 
 ercised minds here that, if faithful, may yet shine brighter 
 than in da3's past. Lodged at A. A.'s. Next morning went 
 on ten miles to White Creek. Dined at S. B.'s, then attended 
 a meeting there at two o'clock. It was large and livingly fa- 
 voured. The clear openings of Truth reaching and solemniz- 
 ing many minds. May the praise be ascribed to Him -who, 
 when he ariseth in the might of his own eternal power, causeth 
 his enemies to be scattered. 
 
 Returned after meeting to Cambridge. It was very cold, 
 and I took some cold by being exposed in an open carriage. 
 Lodged at J. D.'s, and next morning set out early to reach a 
 meeting appointed for us at Pittstown. This was a season of 
 instruction, though not so lively as some others. After meet- 
 ing we hastened on sixteen miles to Troy ; the roads being dif- 
 ficult, did not reach there till after dark. Next day attended 
 their mid-week meeting. A few friendly people also attended, 
 but Friends here are much discouraged from spreading notice 
 to others, as they seldom attend, unless it be in the evening. 
 Meeting here was a satisfactory one to me. 
 
 Went on to Albany this evening. Roads very bad, but through 
 favour we arrived in safety at S. C.'s, where we lodged. Had 
 in the evening the company of several dear young Friends, 
 and it was concluded to have some notices printed and circu- 
 lated of a meeting at ten next day. 
 
 4th of twelfth month, being the day set apart by proclama- 
 tion of the governor of New York state as a day of public 
 thanksgiving for the blessings of Providence, meetings were 
 held in their meeting-places generally in Albany. A conside- 
 rable number of their respectable looking citizens also attend- 
 ed our meeting, and were very quiet and attentive. Divine 
 favour was eminently extended, and it was an interesting and 
 
Chap. XIII] TKAVELS IN NEW YORK. 411 
 
 satisfactory opportunity. About thirty members of our reli- 
 gious society reside in this busy city, and hold meetings on 
 first-days only, under care of a committee. 
 
 5th. A preciously favoured meeting at Bethlehem this day, 
 in which the word of consolation was preached to the tried 
 and afflicted. 
 
 As I sat in meeting under the melting influence of Divine 
 love, a prospect of extensive usefulness opened to my view in 
 the exercise of a gift or talent not dispensed to me, but which 
 I was given to believe would be raised up and occupied by 
 some others, if faithful to the arisings of Divine light in the 
 soul. It was the spreading of publications tending to en- 
 lighten the minds of the children of men on the vitality of 
 religion, as illustrated in the application of the Divine princi- 
 ple to the lives and conduct of the faithful in past ages as well 
 as in the present. Among those excellent examples illustra- 
 tive of the efficacy of the Divine principle in promoting the 
 work of reformation in the earth, and consequently promoting 
 the best interests and happiness of mankind, stands as a bright 
 star the journal and works of John Woolman, a work that 
 ought to be diffused and read as far as the profession of the 
 Christian name extends. His views "on serving the Lord in 
 our outward employments," "on schools," "on the right use 
 of the Lord's outward gifts," and indeed all his writings, 
 show the application of the principles of truth, of peace, and 
 love, of moderation, temperance, and every Christian feeling, 
 to the conduct of men. Various other excellent works might 
 be spread, if carried from house to house and offered to view 
 by men gifted for such a work, not for filthy lucre, but for the 
 promotion of Truth. Many seeking minds would rejoice to 
 have an opportunity of purchasing such works ; and thus, 
 amid the flood of vain and pernicious publications, there might 
 be a more extensive diffusion of solid and useful works, tend- 
 ing in some measure to counteract the banefiil effects of the 
 former. But where is that devotedness to be found that is 
 willing to endure hardships and privations, in order to pro- 
 mote the Avork of righteousness and truth by such means as 
 above alluded to ? 
 
 On seventh-day, the Gth, went on to John Mott's boarding- 
 
412 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 school, where I rested and wrote, and next day attended the 
 meeting at Bern, which was large, but to me very laborious. 
 In the morning had an opportunity with J. M.'s large family 
 of children, and many neighbours, who came in to sit with us 
 fi'om several miles around. It was supposed near three hun- 
 dred persons were present. I laboured among them in much 
 weakness, my lungs being affected with a heavy cold. It was 
 rather a painful season to my mind. Near the close, J. M. 
 appeared in a pathetic supplication ; and I might say of the 
 meetino; as Solomon said : " Better is the end of a thing than 
 the beginning thereof." 
 
 On second-day, the 8th, accompanied by J. M., had a meet- 
 ing at Middleburg, which was small. The word of consola- 
 tion and encouragement was handed forth to the sincere- 
 hearted among them, and we were comforted and edified 
 together, in a renewed evidence of the tender care of Israel's 
 Shepherd over his sheep and lambs, in all their afilictions and 
 tribulations. In this opportunity the history of Saul was 
 presented to mj view in a very striking manner, from the 
 time he was "little in his own eyes," his exaltation to the 
 throne, and his becoming lifted up in his pride ; his disobe- 
 dience, and yet seeking honour before the people ; his jealousy 
 and cruel envy toward David ; the evil spirit that troubled 
 him and the fruits thereof, manifested in his murderous, per- 
 secuting disposition, pursuing after and hunting the innocent, 
 peaceable David as a partridge upon the mountains; and 
 finally, his falling on his own sword upon Mount Gilboa, with 
 the lamentation of David over him. While attentively con- 
 templating this affecting history, my thoughts were arrested 
 by the similarity of too many characters in the present day, 
 who were once the Lord's anointed, but who, in the spirit of 
 self-exaltation and the infatuation of the spirit of jealousy 
 against the innocent, will fall on Mount Gilboa, Avhere there 
 will be neither dew, nor rain, nor fields of offering. 
 
 Third-day, 9th of twelfth month, had a meeting at Oak 
 Hill. To me there appeared a spirit prevalent that was soar- 
 ing above the pure witness for God in the soul, and it was a 
 season of exercise ; but Truth rose triumphant over all oppos- 
 ing spirits, in a testimony that may be remembered by some 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 413 
 
 present. The life and energy of vital religion may be said to 
 be at a low ebb among Friends here ; the gold appears dim, 
 and those who should have been as lights in the world, and as 
 the salt of the earth, appear to have got under the bed of 
 ease or the bushel of earthly-mindedness, "measuring them- 
 selves by themselves ;" thus the salt is likely to lose its 
 savour, unless there be an arising and shaking themselves 
 from the dust of the earth. Nevertheless, there are some 
 honest-hearted Friends among them. 
 
 Next went on to Nathan Spencer's to lodge. His wife Ruth 
 is a sister to Job Scott's wife, and a livingly-exercised gospel 
 minister. Two of her nieces, M. and R., daughters of J. 
 Scott, were here. May Heaven bless them, and the mantle 
 of their father's meek, humble spirit continue to rest upon 
 them. 
 
 On fourth-day had an encouraging meeting at Rensellaer- 
 ville. Several of J. M.'s scholars attended, and a number of 
 other preciously-visited young people. In this meeting a 
 living remnant is preserved, who, if faithful to manifested 
 duty, will know an advancement as from mansion to mansion 
 in the Lord's house ; but it may be with some, through many 
 tribulations, and by learning in the school of affliction, even 
 as Job did. After dining at M. Smith's, went on to New 
 Baltimore, accompanied by our kind and worthy friend Jor- 
 dan Frost, of whom I may say he is an example of silence, 
 being a man of few words ; he appears to me an Israelite 
 indeed. Oh ! that his example were more prevalent in some 
 others. The multitude of words, and the spirit of talkative- 
 ness, often seem as a burden to the innocent life of the Lamb, 
 the retired spirit of meekness and lowly-mindedness. 
 
 On fifth-day, the 11th, at New Baltimore meeting. Dined 
 at J. P.'s ; then went on to Stanton Hill. 
 
 On sixth-day had a large meeting at Coeyman's, to me a 
 laborious season, and little or no relief by vocal communica- 
 tion. Many plain Friends here, and a larger number of aged 
 people than I have lately seen ^together. After meeting, a 
 person having the appearance of a Methodist, came to me and 
 said he liad been deceived to-day ; that as he was coming to 
 meeting a person endeavoured to discourage him, telling him 
 
414 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1828. 
 
 he would hear nothing but a denial of Christ, and that he had 
 been almost ready to turn back, but thought he would venture 
 and hear for himself; and that he was now well satisfied that 
 we did not deny Christ, and encouraged me to go on publish- 
 ing such doctrines as I had that day. The subject of my 
 communication was principally an illustration of the apostolic 
 exhortation, " Examine yourselves whether ye be in the faith 
 — prove yourselves — know ye not your ownselves, how that 
 Christ be in you, except ye be reprobate ?" Dined and lodged 
 at William Bedell's. Next morning visited an aged Friend, 
 who appeal's fast verging to her close — is upward of eighty 
 years old. We had a religious opportunity with her and a 
 number of others present, and some savour of life was felt 
 among us. Then set out for Athens, about twelve miles. My 
 mind was closely engaged in laboring after a state of resigna- 
 tion to a concern which arrested my attention, of returning 
 to visit the afflicted seed in Farmington quarter. 
 
 Arrived at Athens seasonably to have a meeting with the 
 few Friends there on seventh-day P. M., in which the word of 
 encouragement was handed forth to a tried state among them. 
 We stayed the night at J. L.'s. The unexpected prospect of 
 returning westward more than three hundred miles at this 
 inclement season, connected with various circumstances of a 
 trying nature, prevented my sleeping much of the night, but 
 I endeavoured after resignation. 
 
 On first-day morning crossed the North River to Hudson, 
 where we attended their meetino;. Divine light and life arose 
 into dominion, baptizing us together in a living exercise. May 
 the praise be ascribed to Him who is a present helper in the 
 time of need. Ruth Spencer also addressed a state present 
 from whose eyes the scales had been removed, and reciting 
 the circumstance of Jonah, and his trouble and distress through 
 disobedience, exhorted to obedience to the Word of the Lord, 
 lest a worse thing should come upon them. Dined and lodged 
 at Charles Marriot's ; and had it not been for the almost con- 
 tinued exercise of my mind on the subject of returning to the 
 westward, it would have been a quiet resting-place for a little 
 season. This evening I wrote to my dear friends William and 
 D. Wharton. 
 
Chap. XTIL] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 415 
 
 On second-day, the 15tli, went on to Ghent, where we had 
 an appointed meeting. It was covered with a precious solem- 
 nity, in which I felt peace, without any vocal communication, 
 save a few words at the close. A funeral of a Friend's child 
 occurred, which occasioned a large meeting. The coffin was 
 brought within the house till after meeting, when the inter- 
 ment took place. 
 
 During a few weeks past I have occasionally heard of a 
 practice among Friends, and on inquiry now find it is frequent 
 if not general, when interments take place among Friends, 
 and those connected with them, to send for a ministering 
 Friend to attend the funeral and hold a meeting. Hence 
 such Friends are frequently sent for to a distance of some- 
 times fifteen or twenty miles. 
 
 Oh ! that ministers may dwell deep in the gifts of Divine life, 
 and only move therein as Christ the Shepherd puts forth and 
 goes before them ; then, indeed, may such solemn opportunities 
 be improved and blessed. But if, in conformity with custom, 
 ministers should be induced to act under a desire to please the 
 people, they may indeed become able to compass themselves 
 about with sparks from a fire of their own kindling, but they 
 shall lie down in sorrow. 
 
 On third-day had a large and favoured meeting at Chatham, 
 where there is a seeking seed among the people, and the in- 
 vitation of love was held forth, " Ho ! every one that thirsteth, 
 come ye to the waters and drink," &c. We lodged and dined 
 at T. Crandel's. He is an interesting Friend ; has travelled 
 considerably with ministering Friends, and his conversation is 
 cheerful and edifying. He related a testimony of D. Haight, 
 a worthy minister upward of twenty years ago, who said 
 he had discovered among some ministers down toward New 
 York a something that appeared to him like preaching by rule, 
 and that if it continued it would cause great trouble in the 
 society. After dining we returned to Ghent to lodge. 
 
 On fourth-day, attended their week-day meeting at Ghent. 
 It was a precious season, in which I was drawn into near 
 sympathy and unity with a living remnant there, which feel- 
 ing flowed forth in an encouraging testimony among them. 
 This evening we returned to C. M.'s, after taking tea with 
 
416 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1828. 
 
 T. W. and family, where I heard that the canal passage was 
 stopped by reason of the approach of winter. My mind had 
 been closely occupied for some time past in looking toward 
 Farmington quarter, and this day I had become resigned to 
 return about three hundred miles by steamboats and canal 
 packets, in order to discharge this debt of sympathy and love 
 to the tried and afflicted in that remote region. Finding the 
 water passage thither thus at an end for the season, and our 
 carriage and horses not being suitable for such a journey at this 
 inclement time of the year, there seemed no way open at pre- 
 sent for accomplishing such a journey, and therefore I felt 
 willing to leave it, so attended preparative meeting at Hudson 
 on fifth-day, and had some service among Friends there. 
 Then crossed the North River, and went five miles to Catskill 
 to lodge at Samuel Smith's. Here we had a very agreeable 
 visit to S. S. and his wife Mary, settled here alone, no Friends 
 nearer than Athens. Mary does not attend our meeting, but 
 I found her in a precious state of mind, meek, humble, cour- 
 teous, affectionate, open, and kind. My spirit was dipped into 
 much sympathy with her, and our former friendship and unity 
 of spirit were I trust livingly renewed. 
 
 On the 19th of twelfth month, the weather being very cold, 
 we set forward toward Cornwall quarter, and by diligent tra- 
 velling reached T. L.'s at Esopus, thirty -five miles, after dark. 
 Here we lodged and spent next day. 
 
 Notwithstanding the shakings, and rendings, and tumult, 
 and confusion that surround, my confidence remains unshaken 
 that the Lord Almighty is opening and preparing a way for 
 his oppressed seed to come out of bondage. He is causing 
 his light to arise in the minds of the children of men, and 
 unvailing the mystery of iniquity, even of spiritual wicked- 
 ness in high places, and he is revealing the mysteries of his 
 kingdom to babes, to his tender, seeking lambs. These he is 
 gathering to his sheepfold of rest, where they may sit under 
 their vine and fig-tree where none shall make them afraid, 
 " even though the blast of the terrible ones may be heard in 
 the land." 
 
 My spirit travails for the gathering of these. And many 
 of the sincere-hearted who have been carried away captive by 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 417 
 
 the rending spirit of party, will, I trust, be brought back into 
 the meek, harmonious spirit of the Lamb ; when there shall 
 be a reunion of those who are now parted for a little season 
 by the intervening clouds of prejudice, and the mists which 
 imagination has raised from the agitated waters of their own 
 minds. Oh ! for a holy calm that these may subside, and 
 that the warming beams of the Sun of Righteousness may 
 again enliven and enlighten the minds of all who profess to 
 be the followers of the Prince of Peace. After resting on 
 seventh-day, we attended their meeting at Esopus on first-day ; 
 and though divers came out of curiosity, causing some un- 
 settlement at first, yet it was a meeting in which many were 
 interested, and well satisfied in the evidence afforded, that the 
 Truth was declared among them. 
 
 On second-day we went on to the Plains. About eighty or 
 ninety persons assembled, and we had a comfortable, solemn 
 meeting, in which the doctrines of the gospel of peace and 
 good-will flowed forth in great clearness to the attentive au- 
 dience, tending to convince the minds of those present that 
 truth is truth, and will prevail over all opposition, and by its 
 arising as a pure light, dispel the dai'k clouds of prejudice. 
 This meeting was to the few Friends here as a brook by the 
 way to the weary, thirsty traveller. May they abide in faith- 
 ful obedience to the light received ; so will they know Divine 
 power to preserve them, even as it did Daniel in the lion's den. 
 
 On third-day, the 23d, attended monthly meeting at Eso- 
 pus. It was a day of favour. A living remnant is preserved 
 in this meeting, and my spirit was thankful in a belief that if 
 these are faithful, and know a recurring to our foundation 
 principle, the all-regulating, controlling, and directing prin- 
 ciple, the light of Christ within, their lights will shine with 
 increasing brightness, and a revival will take place among 
 them. This doctrine of returning to first principles, even 
 as the disciples were commanded to return to Galilee, the 
 place of their first calling, was held up to view, also the ne- 
 cessity of tarrying at Jerusalem, the quiet habitation of a 
 retired state, until power from on high shall be received ; this 
 being the only qualification by which we can become witnesses 
 of the resurrection of the life and power of Christ in us, as 
 27 
 
418 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1828. 
 
 manifested by a consistency of life and conversation with our 
 holy profession. The example of our early Friends was also 
 held up to view, as a practical illustration of the application 
 of this fundamental principle to the conduct of the faithful, 
 showing forth the purity of the Divine life even in the midst 
 of suffering, &c. The sincere-hearted among them were en- 
 couraged in a living sense of the continued goodness and 
 mercy of the Shepherd of Israel. 
 
 24th. Accompanied by Friends from Esopus and Plains, 
 we had a meeting in Friends' meeting-house at Paltz. Only 
 five families of Friends remain here. The meeting, though 
 small, was a favoured one. 
 
 On fifth-day had a satisfactory meeting at the Valley, held 
 at J. C.'s, a short distance from the meeting-house. A con- 
 siderable number of the neighbours not members among 
 Friends attended, and appeared well satisfied. Here D. A. 
 and wife met us, and conducted us to their house that even- 
 ing, where we were kindly entertained, and had the company 
 of several dear friends. 
 
 On sixth-day, the 26th, had a large and favoured meeting 
 at Marlborough. A considerable number attended who rarely, 
 if ever before, had been at Friends' meeting. In this neigh- 
 bourhood the harvest of religious labour appears plenteous and 
 the labourers few. A hope is felt that there will be a revival 
 here, as the few faithful labourers, and those who love the cause 
 of Truth and peace, are concerned to abide in their tents, and 
 to confess Christ before men in the consistent fruits of their 
 lives and conduct Avith their high and holy profession. 
 
 On seventh-day, the 27th of twelfth month, accompanied 
 by our kind friends David and Ann Adams, we crossed the 
 North River and went on to Crum's Elbow, where next day 
 we had a very large meeting, I trust to good satisfaction. 
 This is one of the largest meetings of Friends we have been 
 at, and remarkably united. 
 
 On second-day, the 29th, attended another large and 
 favoured meeting, appointed at the Creek or Stone meeting- 
 house. Lodged at D. H.'s. 
 
 On third-day morning Ave set out for Milan. The weather 
 fast changing from mild and pleasant, to cold and high winds. 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 419 
 
 The meeting at Milan M'as one in ■which the life and power of 
 Truth arose into dominion over all opposition. Blessed be 
 the name of Israel's Shepherd. After dining at C. G.'s, we 
 returned to lodge at C. C.'s. 
 
 31st. Having still the company of D. H. and wife, and J). 
 A. and wife, we went on to Stanford. Had a large and fa- 
 voured meeting. 
 
 First month 1st, 1829. — This morning came on from Stan- 
 ford to Nine Partners, and attended meeting there. Such is 
 the spirit of inquiry prevalent in this place, that great multi- 
 tudes, even like a quarterly meeting, attended. Dined and 
 lodged at dear old Isaac Thorn's, who remains "steadfast, im- 
 movable, always abounding in the w^ork of the Lord," in truth, 
 hospitality, and an example of primitive simplicity. 
 
 Next day had a meeting at Chestnut Ridge to good satisfac- 
 tion, and the day following at a place called the Branch. 
 
 4th of first month, being first day of the Aveek, we were at 
 Oblong. A pretty large meeting, and open, though more la- 
 borious than some others. This afternoon we went on about 
 five miles, and lodged at W. Tabor's. His family, but not 
 himself, are members. Next day had a precious, heavenly 
 meeting at the valley. This was formerly the residence of 
 that devoted servant, Daniel Haviland, lately removed from 
 works to rewards. 
 
 It being needful for us to return immediately after meeting 
 in order to get on to Apoquage that evening, I was tried, as 
 were also a number of sincere-hearted Friends of the valley 
 meeting, because of not having an opportunity to mingle to- 
 gether in the circle of social intercourse, for even this is a fa- 
 vour where it is properly used. It tends to refresh and com- 
 fort the hearts of the faithful; even "as iron sharpeneth iron, 
 so does the countenance of a man his friend." But in pursuing 
 a journey like the present there is often a cross to be borne on 
 the inclination for social converse, and sometimes it appears 
 prudent just as the pleasure of acquaintance with kindred minds 
 comm.ences, to break ofi'and pursue our course among strangers. 
 On third day had a meeting at Apoquage. A satisfactory 
 season. Friends here are preserved in unity and harmony, 
 but their numbers generally in these meetings have diminished 
 
420 JOUKNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1829. 
 
 since I visited them in 1815. This is in part accounted for 
 by emigration to other newly settled parts of the country. 
 I fear however that some other causes operate to produce this 
 diminution of numbers, and among these a declension in zeal 
 for supporting the testimonies of Truth against the corruptions 
 and customs of the world. Also a want of proper discipline in 
 the families of Friends may be among the causes of decay. 
 Thus at Oswego, the next meeting we attended, there are now 
 only ten families where there were twenty-nine when I visited 
 these parts thirteen years ago. 
 
 After meeting at Oswego on fourth day, and dining with 
 Ann and Dorothy Golden, we set out with Ladowick Hoxie for 
 our guide, and reached Poughkeepsie by evening. Here I 
 was much disappointed in not hearing from home, but abiding 
 in patience, next morning's mail brought the welcome intelli- 
 gence of the continued health of my dear family left at home, 
 while I am travelling through cold and fatigue in order to dis- 
 charge an important duty, having for its object the comfort, 
 encouragement, and welfare of my fellow-creatures. 
 
 8th. Attended Poughkeepsie meeting, and had some exer- 
 cising labour among them. Felt the reward of peace in the 
 discharge of apprehended duty toward them. There is a con- 
 siderable increase of members in this place, and it is almost 
 the only meeting of which this can be said that I have yet 
 revisited. Divers hopeful young men have resorted to this 
 busy town to pursue mercantile business, and there appears 
 some danger lest some of them may be drawn away from the 
 simplicity and safety of the paths of Truth, by copying after 
 the customs of the world in their manner of living and in their 
 attention to business. 
 
 On fifth-day evening had a large meeting at Pleasant Valley, 
 and it may with thankfulness be acknowledged that Divine 
 wisdom was vouchsafed, and tongue and utterance given to 
 declare the doctrines of the everlasting gospel of peace among 
 them, apparently to the satisfaction of all present. 
 
 On sixth day had a comfortable meeting at the Branch in 
 the morning, and another in the evening at Beekman's. Many 
 came to this meeting to see, and hear, and judge for them- 
 selves. 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 421 
 
 Next day we travelled on to Fishkill Landing in ordei- to 
 cross the Hudson to Cornwall, but the ice obstructed our pas- 
 sage, so we went to R. Newlin's, where we stayed the afternoon 
 and lodged. On first day, the 11th, we stayed at R. Newlin's, 
 and as they live remote from any meeting of Friends, and sel- 
 dom have the opportunity of the company of Friends, we sat 
 with them, and had a very interesting and satisfactory meet- 
 ing. Six of their children live at home, for whom my heart 
 yearned in tender sympathy, and counsel and admonition 
 flowed toward them under renewed feelings of gospel love. It 
 was an opportunity which I hope will not soon be forgotten. 
 In the afternoon rode to Poughkeepsie sixteen miles, in order 
 to get a passage over the river, and were kindly received by 
 Friends there. 
 
 Being now clear of my concern on the east side of the Hud- 
 son, the following may be here related. 
 
 In a large company one evening, a person present seemed 
 disposed to question the miracles related in the New Testa- 
 ment, particularly the account of the graves opening, and the 
 resurrection of the bodies of those who are said to have been 
 seen entering the city ; expressing also his belief in a general 
 Providence which governs matter by fixed and invariable laws, 
 but that he could not understand a special or particular Pro- 
 vidence, which would change or overrule those general laws 
 for the sake of particular individuals, or to favour one more 
 than another. He stated his belief in a great First Cause, who 
 instituted the laws of nature, and that he communicated the 
 gift of his Spirit to man for his guide and director to happiness 
 and peace ; and this he thought sufficient for every one, Avith- 
 out any special providence exerted in favour of particular per- 
 sons. He also admitted that reason, or the rational faculty, 
 was a part of the animal or natural man, and if properly used 
 would direct him in the paths of rectitude. On these, as pre- 
 liminary views, he appeared to want information, as his mind 
 had been much occupied with them for a considerable time 
 past, in which he had declined reading the scriptures, evidently 
 because he could not so understand as to assent to many 
 
422 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1829. 
 
 things wliichi lie found there. And yet he manifested no dis- 
 position to condemn or speak lightly of those records, nor to 
 insist upon his own opinions. 
 
 After he had opened these views by way of inquiry, princi- 
 pally to gain the sentiments of others on the subject of mira- 
 cles, he was questioned as to his belief in the manifestations 
 of Divine Light in the soul of man as a reprover for evil and 
 a guide to peace and happiness. To this he fully assented, 
 but seemed to think many of our ideas of right and wrong 
 were the effect of education, and arose from the various cir- 
 cumstances with which we were connected. This also was 
 granted that many might be traced to this source, but that 
 others, particularly those compunctions felt for actions which 
 are often applauded by others, and sanctioned by general cus- 
 tom, must be referred to Divine Light, which makes manifest 
 all things that are reprovable. To this he at length assented, 
 after various examples were mentioned, such as John Wool- 
 man's account of killing the robin, and the horror of his mind 
 consequent on indulging the spirit of wantonness and cruelty, 
 and divers other instances, to which he added some of his own 
 experience. 
 
 This point being thus far settled, his attention was next 
 directed to his own position, of the institution of the laws of 
 nature in every organized animal, possessing sensitive and per- 
 ceptive powers, and a power to seek for and pursue its own 
 happiness. Taking man as an animal of this description, and 
 admitting him to be the highest in the scale of organized mat- 
 ter, especially as he possesses the rational faculty in a higher 
 or more extensive degree than any other animal with which we 
 are acquainted, it would follow, by adverting to the "fixed and 
 invariable laws" which appear to govern the inferior orders of 
 animal beings, that man also, as an animal, would, by those 
 laws, be prompted to seek for and pursue his own happiness, 
 in the gratification of every lust, inclination, or propensity of 
 his animal nature, were there nothing to counteract, overrule, 
 or restrain his powers of action. Self-preservation and self- 
 gratification would be the objects of his pursuit, and being en- 
 dued with reason or rational faculties, these would be almost in- 
 finitely diversified; and as every man thus followed the laws of 
 
Chap. XIII. ] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 423 
 
 his animal nature uncontrolled, except by superior force, the 
 strong would overpower the weaker, and misery, confusion, dis- 
 order, and anarchy would be the consequence. To this he re- 
 plied, that reason would show the necessity of order, and that in 
 the social state laws would be made to restrain the hurtful pas- 
 sions, and keep man from injuring his fellow-man ; that his own 
 reason and reflection would teach him to respect the rights of 
 others, and thus there might be harmony maintained in society. 
 
 In answer to this, it was remarked, that if reason would 
 thus oppose the laws of nature, or natural inclination and de- 
 sire after happiness, then reason must be something higher 
 than a "part of the animal or natural man;" and if higher, 
 then superior, and nothing short of Divine. But if still con- 
 sidered a part of the animal man, as before admitted, then 
 one part of the laws of nature would be acting in opposition 
 to another, and there must be an umpire to decide which 
 should bear sway, or the stronger would oppress the weaker. 
 But the laws of nature had been admitted to be " fixed and 
 invariable." Hence, the law of the rational faculty would 
 never submit to the law of our inferior lust or propensity, but 
 the contrary is a fact not to be denied since the day that Eve 
 yielded to the influence and persuasions of the serpent. 
 
 We were now brought to the consideration of the principle 
 of Divine Light which God breathed into Adam, after he had 
 made him of the earth, an animal, " and God inspired the 
 natural man with the spirit of his own life and light, by which 
 he became a living soul." And this life of God, inbreathed 
 or inspired, is "the true light that lighteth every man coming 
 into the world." It is the spii'it of God, given to man as 
 "his guide and director" to happiness and peace, which is 
 the Law written in the heart, by which man originally was, 
 and now is, qualified to have dominion over all the earthy 
 nature of the animal or natural part of his being. It is the 
 law of the spirit of Divine life, and is set over and above the 
 laws of animal nature, in order to regulate, restrain, direct, 
 and control them, so as to promote and preserve order, har- 
 mony, and peace, not only in the community of social beings, 
 but also that essential happiness of the immortal soul which 
 is congenial to its nature, its being, and its duration. Now, 
 
424 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1829, 
 
 whenever the laws of animal nature, or the lusts of the flesh, 
 prompt to the pursuit of animal happiness, beyond the limita- 
 tions of this superior law of the mind or soul, its restraining, 
 limiting, or controlling power, is felt by the obedient mind ; 
 and a cross or death is known to the first inclination or motion 
 of desire for what is beyond this boundary. This is the death 
 of Jesus to sin, which man is called to imitate. But when 
 man yields his members to the influence of the law of animal 
 nature, and transgresses this Divine law, then he feels con- 
 demnation ; not a law of nature opposing another law of 
 nature, but the Divine law, life, or light of God, opposing the 
 law of sin. Hei-e, as man "turns at his reproof," he pours 
 of his holy spirit of mercy and forgiveness upon him, and of 
 his spirit of grace or power to forsake sin, and overcome the 
 law of that earthy nature in himself which by improper in- 
 dulgence has produced sin. Thus, the law of God in man, as 
 he unites with it and obeys it, changes, controls, overrules, or 
 suspends the operations of the common laws of nature in him- 
 self, and is indeed a special providence for the benefit, advan- 
 tage, and happiness of every individual who is the subject of 
 its blessed operation. 
 
 Hence, if a miracle is a special providence, or an interpo- 
 sition of Divine power to suspend, control, or overrule the 
 general laws of nature, the work of redemption in every soul 
 that knows it is a miracle. Hence, also, the same benevolent 
 Power and Goodness who thus manifests his special providence 
 internally, can and may do, and does and has done the same 
 outwardly, whenever his wisdom, unsearchable to us, has seen 
 meet or may see proper to interpose his power for the benefit 
 of his creature man ; for " he has the command and control 
 of all the laws, and powers, and operations in nature." Nor 
 can we discover any reason or cause why he should not some- 
 times interfere with, suspend, or change the general laws of 
 nature, for the purpose of producing a greater good. Thus, 
 in order to "show his power" to the mind of the Egyptian 
 monarch, and produce that evidence Avhich should gain his 
 belief and obedience, the general laws of nature were 
 changed, and miracles wrought in his sight, until at length 
 he confessed his sin and implored forgiveness. By the exhi- 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 425 
 
 bition of the same supernatural power, controlling and direct- 
 ing the laws of nature, the minds of the oppressed Israelites 
 were inspired with confidence, so that "they believed God 
 and his servant Moses." 
 
 That the miracles related in the New Testament as wrought 
 by the power of God, through Christ and the apostles, tended 
 to some great and beneficial object, in relation to the welfare 
 and real happiness of the souls of those who were the imme- 
 diate subjects or witnesses of them, may be rationally inferred 
 from the effects internally produced by the miracles wrought 
 by the same power in every true believer, as well as by the 
 confessions and effects recorded in the New Testament. 
 
 But the inquirer asked, " How are we to know the truth of 
 those records or statements ? such as that the dead bodies 
 arose, and were seen of many," &c. To this it was replied, 
 that so far as outward evidence extended, the truth of all his- 
 torical facts or narratives depended on the credit of the histo- 
 rian, or the number of witnesses attesting the same thing, in 
 whom we had confidence. If we admit the authenticity of 
 one part of the narrative, why not others, where at least a 
 probability of sincerity is attached to the author ? If one 
 miracle is admitted externally, from the analogy of miracles 
 wrought internally, why not another ; since, if we admit the 
 interposition of Divine, unlimited power to control, suspend, 
 overrule, or change the laws of nature in one case, why not 
 in others, since all the laws of nature and matter are subject 
 to the control and direction of nature's God ? 
 
 Now, since we admit the truth and Divine origin of those 
 precepts and doctrines recorded as delivered by Jesus Christ, 
 because of the internal evidence furnished us by the " gift of 
 Divine light" of their truth and excellence when reduced to 
 practice, so to minds less enlightened an external evidence 
 might be furnished in the economy of perfect Wisdom, by 
 means of those exhibitions of a special Providence, or the 
 miracles wrought by Jesus Christ, as the means for inspiring 
 them with confidence in the truth of those precepts, many of 
 which were new to them, as well as to engage their attention 
 and produce further inquiry, as in the case of Nicodemus and 
 others. Thus the principal use of those miracles being in re- 
 
426 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1829. 
 
 lation to those who were eye-witnesses of them, the resurrec- 
 tion of such as "were seen of many" might have had the 
 blessed effect intended to them ; and to others, who believed 
 their report of the fact, so far as the circumstances thus re- 
 lated were appropriate to their condition. The same may be 
 of like benefit to all such as believe the narrative, and receive 
 and understand the spiritual application of it. 
 
 After spending two days at Poughkeepsie waiting for the 
 increase of ice, on third-day I was slid across on a sleigh. 
 
 On fourth-day attended select quarterly meeting at Marl- 
 borough. Next day was at the general quarterly, which was 
 small. Much harmony prevailed, but Friends are very much 
 stripped and tried. A hope was felt, and the word of en- 
 couragement administered, that as Friends abide faithful in 
 their respective gifts, a revival of light and life and energy 
 will be experienced, and their wilderness state again will 
 blossom as the rose. But, oh ! for more of an ingathering to 
 the standard of Truth in themselves. 
 
 On sixth-day, 16th of first month, had a public meeting 
 appointed at Marlborough. This was felt to be a weighty 
 concern, inasmuch as I had been there before, and then had 
 an appointed meeting, but did not feel clear of the place. The 
 meeting held this day was large, solemn, and satisfactory. 
 Dined at W. H.'s, and set out for Newberg; and on the seven- 
 teenth had a large and good meeting at Cornwall, an op- 
 portunity not soon to be forgotten by many present. May 
 the praise be given to Him to whom it is due. Went on to 
 S. Seaman's to lodge, divers Friends being with us. I was 
 much shut up from social converse this evening, but others 
 were not lacking; and it really seemed as if the ballast of 
 silence was necessary, and I was willing to endure it with 
 patience, though this talkative spirit is often a burden to my 
 mind. It was some comfort to observe some others, par- 
 ticularly my worthy friend S. Seaman, who appeared to 
 understand and value the "quiet habitation." Next morning 
 I found there was in the company a tender-spirited woman, 
 who was mentally in a place where two ways met, and her 
 mind undecided which way to take. I was glad I had been 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IX NEW YORK. 427 
 
 preserved from joining in the conversation, •^•hich was of a 
 character that would have wounded the tender sensibilities of 
 her mind. Oh ! how careful should all be of their own spirits, 
 and of indulgino; themselves in a latitude of conversation, 
 which may wound the precious innocent life in the little 
 children of the heavenly Father's family. It has in this 
 journey appeared especially necessary to "have our loins girt 
 about" with prudent, watchful care. 
 
 First-day morning the 18th, as we were ready to set out for 
 Clove meeting, I felt an impression to take the female Friend 
 above alluded to by the hand, as I learned she declined attend- 
 ing meeting with us. To this feeling I attended, and she 
 seemed melted into a tender brokenness of spirit, manifested 
 by shedding many tears, and expressing the sincerity of her 
 desire to be rightly directed, and to be preserved from preju- 
 dice, I felt sympathy with her, and had a word of encourage- 
 ment and consolation for her. Then went on to meeting, and 
 though a very stormy day the house was thronged, and Divine 
 counsel and heavenly love were mercifully near, and favoured 
 us together in the fresh extendings of his goodness and the 
 diffusion of his light and truth. Meeting held till near two, 
 but no one seemed weary. 
 
 On the second-day the 19th, had a meeting at Blooming- 
 grove — a satisfactory opportunity, though the house was 
 not filled. After spending the afternoon and evening with 
 our kind friend W. Pearsoll, and observing with satisfaction 
 the example of plainness and simplicity in his manner of 
 living, and the appearance of his children and family, we set 
 out next morning for Kakiat, a distance of twenty-five miles. 
 In the evening, had a large and satisfactory meeting here. 
 
 On foui'th-day morning set out early and alone, finding no 
 one who could inform us of the road or distance across the 
 country to Randolph in Jersey. Passed through Pompton 
 and Persiperry, and arrived at Richard Brotherton's in Ran- 
 dolph about seven in the evening, having travelled about forty 
 miles, were kindly received, and next day attended their week- 
 day meeting. It was to the relief of my mind, and I hope 
 to the edification and encouragement of the sincere-hearted 
 among them. Afternoon went to Hardwick, twenty miles. 
 
428 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1829. 
 
 From tliese two settlements of Friends, there have been 
 many emigrations to the western parts of New York State 
 within a few years past, so that the meetings here are much 
 diminished, and not only so, but a want of zeal and energy 
 among divers of those who remain ; yet there is a remnant of 
 sincere-hearted Friends scattered through this section of 
 country. But in looking toward a revival of the work of 
 reformation and the advancement of the cause of Truth and 
 righteousness, the inquiry arises, "By whom shall Jacob arise, 
 for he is small?" 
 
 Had a pretty large meeting at Hardwick, at two P. M. It was 
 open and satisfactory, and I felt peace in discharge of this duty. 
 
 Divers of the members live quite remote; and as their 
 numbers are much diminished, discouragements often attend 
 the few who are concerned to keep up their religious meetings. 
 They remember the day when there was a large body of 
 Friends here, and divers living ministers among them; they 
 feel their present condition to be trying. 
 
 On seventh-day morning set out, and travelled thirty-five 
 miles to Kingwood; were kindly received at H. Clifton's, 
 Notice being promptly spread, a large meeting assembled 
 next day, and it was a season of much openness in public 
 communication, tending to solemnize the minds of those 
 present, under which precious covering we parted, and rode 
 that evening to Watson Fell's in Bucks Co., where we were 
 welcomed with feelings of kindness and genuine hospitality. 
 Next day, being 26th of first month, calling to see the family 
 of B. S. on our way, we reached home in the evening, and 
 found all well and glad again to see us — Josiah Roberts's wife 
 having arrived about an hour before us. Mutual feelings of 
 rejoicing, with a grateful sense of Divine favour, in thus per- 
 mitting us once more to meet together, as well as for his pro- 
 tecting providence and paternal care over us in our separated 
 state, pervaded our minds, and cemented us together in the 
 precious evidences of Divine regard. 
 
 In a retrospect of this long and exercising journey of up- 
 ward of four months from my family, having travelled a dis- 
 tance of about seventeen hundred and fifty miles, there is 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 429 
 
 much cause for humble gratitude to the Father of mercies for 
 his extended goodness, and the manifestation of his gracious 
 kindness and support. The state of society under existing 
 circumstances being much more trying to a traveller at this 
 than at any former period, when I have believed it my duty 
 to leave my native home, for the purpose of promoting Truth 
 and righteousness among my fellow-creatures, abundant evi- 
 dence has nevertheless been furnished, that as the day is so 
 shall thy strength be. Divine wisdom and counsel have been 
 mercifully dispensed, and a path thereby opened, even where 
 at first view no way appeared. 
 
 To go forth advocating the cause of peace, and Truth, and 
 love, amid the excitements prevailing, seemed to demand the 
 qualification of being "wise as serpents and harmless as 
 doves," and to "have the loins girt about" with watchful 
 circumspection, and "the lights burning." A humble hope 
 is entertained in the review of this journey, that this has been 
 measurably realized. Never I believe have I felt a greater 
 care to keep a conscience void of ofi"ence, so as in all things 
 to administer none occasion neither to Jew nor Gentile, nor 
 to the household of faith. And though I have often been 
 pained and burdened with the multitude of conversation about 
 the state of society, yet as patience was maintained, even this 
 trial has sometimes been husbanded to my advantage, and I 
 have been introduced into near sympathy with the seed of 
 life in the minds of my fellow-creatures. 
 
 In almost all the meetings I have attended the spring of the 
 gospel has been livingly opened, and the message of peace 
 and love has been delivered to the people, " not with enticing 
 words of man's wisdom, but in the demonstration of the 
 Spirit." Therein I have had rencAvedly to consider that when 
 a right opening to appoint a meeting is attended to, and the 
 instrument is kept in a passive prepared state. Divine Wisdom 
 mercifully condescends to administer to the states of such as 
 are the subjects of his regard, and in a condition to be bene- 
 fited by such an outward mode of instruction. For the sake 
 of these seeking minds the gathering crook of his love has 
 often been extended, and the word of encouragement handed 
 forth in vocal testimony among the people, and I have been 
 
430 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1829. 
 
 much confirmed in the view that as a living ministry has oft 
 been the means wisely adapted to the object of gathering the 
 wandering sheep to the fold of rest, so those who go forth in 
 the Lord's work as ambassadors for him, having "put off their 
 shoes from their feet," so that in every step they take the 
 pure, unobstructed feeling of "holy ground" may be known, 
 will be furnished and qualified for every occasion, to minister 
 as the oracles of God, and his name will be honoured. But 
 I have also seen the danger of letting out the mind to wander 
 from this collected, watchful state, to suffer itself either to be 
 too much elated or too much depressed, to get too much 
 mingled with the spirits of the people, or with external con- 
 cerns, and so lose the lively, sensible feeling of abiding at 
 Jerusalem, waiting for the renewings of the promise of 
 the Father. Here a loss may be sustained, not only by 
 the instrument, but the people may be thereby deprived 
 of what is their due, or might have been dispensed to them, 
 had the servant kept his place and been faithful to his mas- 
 ter's command. 
 
 Another danger arises from the strong drawings of the 
 expectations of the people, who may have ears to hear out- 
 wardly, but whose inward ears may be dull of the true hear- 
 ing. Here, as John Woolman says, " if there is not a careful 
 attention to the gift, men who have once laboured in the 
 gospel ministry, growing weary of suifering, and ashamed of 
 appearing weak, may kindle a fire, compass themselves about 
 with sparks, and thus depart from the pure feeling of that 
 which leadeth safely." 
 
 In this journey I have visited a number of meetings which 
 I attended upward of thirteen years ago. These meetings, 
 previous to the late separation (among Friends,) were gene- 
 rally smaller as to the number of members than they were in 
 the year 1815. This circumstance has led my mind into 
 some serious inquiries and reflections. The removal of many 
 to the western parts of the State from these meetings, may 
 account in part for this diminution, but not wholly so. An- 
 other discouraging cause has been developed to my view. This 
 is the want of a careful guarded education, and of right disci- 
 pline and order in families. Among the young people, much 
 
Chap. XIII.] TRAVELS IN NEW YORK. 431 
 
 departiire from plainness and simplicity is obvious in many 
 places. This opens a facility for unprofitable associations, 
 and hence outgoing in marriage has been a cause of lessening 
 their numbers in many instances. But this evil appears to 
 arise out of another. The parents, in pursuing after wealth, 
 have been busied about the cares of this life and the deceit- 
 fulness of riches, and thus have not only neglected their duty 
 toward their children, but, having accumulated the means of 
 gratifying the numerous wants and desires of their children 
 and themselves, in conformity with the customs and fashions 
 of the world, they have encouraged them in a way of living, 
 in many instances, that has assimilated them with the people 
 of the world. Another sorrowful cause has operated as a dis- 
 couragement in the due attendance of religious meetings in 
 some places, and this has arisen from the want of humility, 
 brotherly kindness, and gentleness among some, who have 
 been active in dealing with offenders, and who have held con- 
 spicuous stations in society. Hence, example has not always 
 been consistent with profession, and the weak have been stum- 
 bled, the unwatchful and inexperienced have been offended, 
 and meetings have declined, not only in numbers, but in life 
 and zeal for the Truth. Yet, notwithstanding this is mourn- 
 fully the case in divers places, there are left many sincere- 
 hearted Friends, of all ages and ranks ; and these, if they 
 continue faithful, will yet hold up the light, and become in- 
 strumental in the work of reformation, and in the promotion 
 of the cause of Truth and rio;hteousness in the earth. 
 
432 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1829. 
 
 CHAPTER XIV. 
 
 TRAVELS IN 1829, COMMENCING FOURTH MONTH 28th. 
 
 At our monthly meeting, held 28th of fourth month, 1829, 
 Friends gave me their minute of concurrence with a concern 
 ■which I opened to attend the Yearly Meeting of Friends to be 
 held in New York in next month, as also to visit the meetings 
 of Westbury and Purchase quarters. Accordingly, on the 
 20th of fifth month I set out, in company with H. and M. P. 
 under a similar concern, with the exception of Purchase quar- 
 ter, my daughter Sarah, and my young Friend S. 0. P., whose 
 health was delicate, and who was going on after Yearly Meet- 
 ing to visit her relatives in New England. 
 
 Went, on the first afternoon, to Trenton, and were kindly 
 entertained by our worthy Friends T. and E. S. Next day, 
 pursued our journey through Princeton to Rahway, where we 
 lodged. During this day felt much sweetness and satisfaction 
 in our plain though comparatively slow way of travelling by 
 land, contrasting it Avith the common mode of steamboat pas- 
 sage. Enjoyed our little society in quietude and with grateful 
 emotions. 
 
 Next day went on to New York, where we were afi'ection- 
 ately received and hospitably entertained by our kind young 
 friends J. C. H. and wife, with whom our unity and friendship 
 increased the longer we were with them. Several other 
 Friends came in to lodge here also, and our meeting with 
 many dear Friends was sharpening to our social feelings, even 
 "as iron sharpeneth iron." 
 
 On seventh-day morning began the Select Yearly Meeting, 
 wherein my spirit was bowed into contrition, under a sense 
 of the marvellous work of Divine mercy and kindness mani- 
 fested in this our day, in thus gathering a people and preserv- 
 ing them together in love and unity, as becomes brethren. 
 
 And although in this department of society, the rents and 
 
Chap. XIV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 433 
 
 divisions that have taken place have severed about one-half 
 of those who formerly had a seat in these annual assemblies, 
 yet considering those who have remained together in a pre- 
 cious unity of feeling, as being alive in their interest to pro- 
 mote the great cause of Truth and righteousness in the earth, 
 way opened for considerable public labour among them, tend- 
 ing to stir up the pure mind to diligence, and to encourage to 
 faithfulness in occupying our several gifts for the edification 
 of the body in love. 
 
 Divine kindness overshadowed the several sittings of this part 
 of the Yearly Meeting, and it must be acknowledged to have 
 been a time of favour and of renewed feeling of the harmonizing 
 influence of the one Spirit, baptizing into the oneness of tra- 
 vail and exercise for the arising and prevailing of a godly care 
 over the ministry, that it be preserved pure and blameless in 
 this day of sifting — of judging too much after the sight of the 
 eye and the hearing of the ear — even when there is a shaking 
 among the nations of religious professors, and the accuser 
 of the brethren is exalting himself against the heritage of 
 God. 
 
 A concern was also manifested that the standing and move- 
 ments of all those placed in the responsible station of minis- 
 ters and elders, should be clean and unrebukable, occupying 
 holy ground in the pure feeling of Divine life. And for this 
 end the figure of "washing one another's feet," was illustrated 
 and recommended as containing much of the original design 
 and present usefulness of these select opportunities. 
 
 On first-day, meetings for worship were held at Rose and 
 Hester street houses. The meeting at Rose street in the 
 morning was very large, so that many could not get in the 
 house ; so was that of Hester street in the afternoon. Our 
 worthy friend E. Stabler, from Virginia, together with Elias 
 and Edward Hicks, and divers other valuable ministering 
 Friends, appeared to attract the attention of vast crowds of 
 people, so that in the afternoon it was necessary to open the 
 room in the basement story at Hester street, in order that the 
 concourse of people might be accommodated. A large com- 
 pany who could not get into the upper room retired here, and 
 some of us at least would have been willing to enjoy the 
 28 
 
434 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1829. 
 
 quietude of silent retirement ; but this was interrupted by a 
 communication which, to many feeling minds, evidently wanted 
 the pomegranate of Divine life. 
 
 There is a great anxiety to hear preaching, and it may be 
 well if a godly sincerity is the moving cause ; but a fear arises 
 that those who are so eager to quench their thirst at this 
 stream, may "thirst again," even after hearing the most pow- 
 erful testimonies ; and the reason is obvious — they are labour- 
 ing for the "meat which perisheth," and are not enough 
 concerned to "dig through the surface" and "carefully to 
 cast forth the loose matter, so as to get down to the living 
 spring in themselves," issuing from the Rock that is sure, and 
 endureth unto life eternal. 
 
 To what else shall we attribute the state of those who are 
 easily tossed, agitated, and superficially amused with a sound 
 of eloquent language, while solid edification is too little sought 
 and too little known. Truly it is a day when those exercised 
 in the ministry have great need to know the substance of 
 what was typified by the priests and those who bore the ark 
 of the testimony, standing firm with their feet in the midst of 
 Jordan, until all the people were clean passed over. 
 
 On second-day, the meetings for business were opened in 
 much quietness and harmony. J. K. attended that of women 
 Friends, and appeared in solemn supplication at its commence- 
 ment, uniting many feeling hearts in the aspiration of grati- 
 tude to the Dispenser of goodness, mercy, and peace, for the 
 benefits received. In the social circles, I feared there was too 
 much indulgence in those topics of conversation which tended 
 to keep the mind afloat, and often produced an excitement not 
 very favourable to a retired state of mind, nor promotive of 
 our testimony against talebearing and detraction. 
 
 The several sittings of the Yearly Meeting were large, and 
 generally interesting. A spirit of harmony and brotherly 
 condescension was manifested, although considerable discus- 
 sion took place on some subjects. Elias Hicks, now upward 
 of fourscore years old, still occupied a prominent station of 
 usefulness in the meeting. His discernment and wisdom still 
 shone with conspicuous brightness in the various deliberations 
 which occurred, while his condescension to the views and 
 
CH.tp. XIV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 435 
 
 judgment of others, marked his character with Christian ten- 
 derness and forbearance. 
 
 The relation in which the orthodox stand to the Society of 
 Friends was taken into consideration, and a large committee 
 appointed to consider what measures should be taken, in 
 order to establish the separation which has occurred. This 
 brought much exercise over my mind, for it appeared obvious 
 that some Friends of this Yearly Meeting were in danger of 
 being actuated by a zeal toward their dissenting brethren, 
 which aimed at cuttincj them off from a rif^ht in our religious 
 society by a formal disownment ; and that the design of the 
 present step was to form a uniform line or rule of procedure 
 for that purpose. The more I have weighed and reflected on 
 this subject, the more I have been confirmed in my judgment 
 that Friends had better be still and quiet. "Refrain from 
 these men and let them alone," is a safe watchword; why 
 then take any notice of their proceedings or conduct ? "While 
 the excitement exists that has been occasioned by their sepa- 
 ration, and which is now increased in divers places by a pro- 
 cess of disownment against Friends, it appears very unsafe 
 for Friends to engage in a work of retaliation, or which may 
 be construed as such. Besides, the object of Christian disci- 
 pline is to reclaim and restore, not to cut off. But at present 
 there is no door open for the admission or reception of labours 
 of love, to help and to heal, consequently it is not a time for 
 proceedings to be had in the cases of such as have left Friends 
 and associated with our dissenting brethren; and many of them 
 have been deceived and alarmed, and remain in a prejudiced, 
 bewildered state, more to be pitied than censured. Add to 
 this the stripped and enfeebled condition of society, in many 
 parts of this Yearly Meeting, the division of families and 
 near connections, and the novelty of the case without rule or 
 precedent. Under all these views, and the precious spirit of 
 peace and love influencing my mind, I laboured both in the 
 meeting and with the committee to dissuade from moving for- 
 ward in this business at present ; urging the necessity of pa- 
 tience and forbearance, even as our heavenly Father is declared 
 to be " merciful and gracious, long suffering, and abundant in 
 goodness and truth." 
 
436 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1829. 
 
 Yearly Meeting closed on sixth-day, and an epistle issued 
 by that body to its constituent branches was printed ready for 
 delivery on seventh-day, A. M. This hurry of doing busi- 
 ness is seldom productive of much solid advantage. The 
 epistle passed the meeting in an unfinished state, for want of 
 more time and deliberation. It was corrected by some Friends 
 afterward ; but when issued from the press, and read at lei- 
 sure, it was not so satisfactory as could be wished in all such 
 cases. A true believer makes not haste. Patience was evi- 
 dently wanting among Friends on several other occasions 
 during the business of the meeting; and yet surveying the 
 whole in retrospect, there is abundant cause for gratitude to 
 the Preserver of men in that his good Spirit is still vouch- 
 safed to influence and direct, and his preserving care still 
 over his flock and family. 
 
 On seventh-day we left N. Y., and rode to Jericho on Long 
 Island ; and the day following attended meeting at that place 
 in the morning, in which M. P. and myself had public labour 
 among the people, tending at least to the peace of our own 
 minds. 
 
 In the afternoon had an appointed meeting at Bethpage, 
 which was a satisfactory opportunity, and we returned to 
 Jericho to lodge. 
 
 On the 1st of sixth month, were at Matinicock, and a 
 memorable season it was to some minds. Had an afternoon 
 meeting at Westbury. M. P. now appeared relieved of her 
 concern, inasmuch as way did not open for other meetings, 
 there being several Friends travelling and appointing meetings. 
 So on third-day forenoon H. and M. P. left us, to go to New 
 York city, to attend monthly meeting there. To encourage 
 to faithfulness in what are sometimes called "little things," I 
 may record the circumstance of an opportunity in V. Hicks's 
 family, at M. P.'s request. It proved a heart-tendering sea- 
 son to most, if not all present. M. instructively adverted to 
 a past season of close trial, and the opportunity closed after 
 a pathetic vocal supplication by our dear old father Elias 
 Hicks. 
 
 On fourth-day morning, leaving my two Sarahs at Jericho, 
 1 went, in company with Y. H. and S. I. U., over the Sound 
 
Chap. XIV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 437 
 
 to Samuel Titus's, at New Rochelle. Here we had to pass the 
 remainder of the day, because no way opened to have a meet- 
 ing appointed. In this hospitable mansion we were kindly 
 entertained, and next day attended their mid-week meeting at 
 Mamaroneck. Notice having been spread, a considerable 
 number attended, and it was a satisfaetory season. 
 
 After dining, went on toward Purchase. My mind had not 
 been much elevated, but rather in a depressed state for some 
 time. I had however submitted to have a meeting appointed 
 at Purchase for sixth-day morning, and one at North Castle 
 in the afternoon, but not with as much clearness as at some 
 other times. 
 
 Near the usual time of retiring to rest, a messenger arrived 
 from New York with a letter, informing of the illness of my 
 wife with the bilious colic, and a request for me to return im- 
 mediately home. This occasioned us all a very close trial. 
 Two meetings appointed for the morrow, and to leave these 
 appeared trying. The extremity of sickness at home was also 
 very trying, under the pressure of which I retired to seek re- 
 pose, and endeavour to feel after what might be best to do in 
 such an extremity. In the morning, having had some sleep, 
 I was called early, and on carefully weighing the matter, felt 
 most easy to return immediately home, Friends being willing 
 to spread counter notice respecting the meetings. Therefore 
 set out about four A. M. Arrived in New York in time to take 
 the twelve o'clock steamboat passage. Another trial occurred 
 here in not meeting my daughter Sarah on her way from Je- 
 richo home. But the Long Island stage did not arrive till a 
 few minutes after the steamboat had left the wharf. 
 
 On my arrival at Trenton I procured a horse and chaise, 
 and proceeded directly home, v.-here I arrived about midnight. 
 Found my dear wife on the recovery, though very weak and 
 feeble. 
 
 During the lonely ride of about one hundred and twenty 
 miles my mind was preserved in a pensive calm, reposing its 
 trust in the Shepherd of Israel, who never fails nor forsakes 
 those who put their trust in him. For the favour vouchsafed 
 in sparing us a little longer the companion of my domestic 
 life, and relieving her from extreme pain and sickness, my 
 
438 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1829. 
 
 heart expanded in grateful acknowledgment of His mercies 
 and his goodness, who dealeth with us in perfect wisdom and 
 perfect love. 
 
 As my wife's recovery was slow, I stayed at home about a 
 week, till I saw her again able to be a little engaged in her 
 domestic concerns, when taking my daughter Ann with me, set 
 out to finish the remainder of the visit. On the twelfth of 
 sixth month we rode to Rahway, and were kindly entertained 
 during the night by J. Moore and wife. Next morning went 
 on to New York, and thence to Jericho, where we met a hearty 
 welcome at the mansion of our friends V. and A. Hicks, and 
 their precious daughter C. 
 
 On first-day the 14th, attended Westbury meeting in the 
 morning. It was a precious favoured opportunity. Doctrine 
 and counsel flowed freely in the renewed feeling of Divine 
 love, and the poor in spirit who, like the publican that went 
 up to the temple to pray, have no confidence in themselves, 
 were encouraged to put their trust in the living God, who is 
 ever mindful of his humble, dependent children. 
 
 In the afternoon had a meeting at Jerusalem, which was also 
 a favoured season, though not so eminently overshadowed with 
 heavenly goodness as that at Westbury in the morning. Peace 
 of mind resulted from this day's labour in the cause of Truth. 
 May the dew of heaven descend on the plants of the Father's 
 own right-hand planting. 
 
 On second-day, accompanied by D. Seaman, Avent on nearly 
 thirty miles eastAvard to Smithtown, where we had a meeting 
 in the afternoon. Next day went on to Islip, where we had an 
 interesting favoured meeting. Both these meetings were out 
 from amons the settlements of Friends' and on reviewing them 
 and the feelings attendant on mingling with my dear fellow- 
 probationers in that love which knows no sectarian boundaries, 
 I am constrained to acknowledge the condescending goodness 
 and qualifying influence of the Divine Fountain, which was 
 thus mercifully opened, and the sincere-hearted were permit- 
 ted to be refreshed thereat ; seasons which I trust will be 
 gratefully remembered by some minds. May the praise of 
 his own Avorks be ascribed to Him Avliose right it is. 
 
 This evening we returned to Jericho, and my mind Avas en- 
 
Chap. XIV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 439 
 
 gaged In the exercise of numbering or rccovmting the benefits 
 and favours of a gracious superintending Providence. It is a 
 delightful employment of the powers of thought and reflection 
 to dwell upon the "goodness and mercy" that "follow" or at- 
 tend us continually, and inspire the hope that " we shall dwell 
 in the house of the Lord forever." 
 
 Fourth-day the 17th. — Attended Westbury monthly meet- 
 ing, and near its close I felt an impression to call the atten- 
 tion of Friends to an accommodating, friendly disposition to- 
 ward those of their former members who had left them, and 
 who were now preparing materials for building a meeting- 
 house near them. It was suggested for consideration to pro- 
 pose their occupying Westbury meeting-house at any time 
 when Friends did not want to use it themselves. If this 
 friendly accommodation could be eftected, the expense and 
 toil and unpleasant feelings attendant on their erecting a 
 house so near, might be averted, and a more speedy return to 
 harmony and peace might ensue. Oh that the principles of 
 justice, mercy, and peace might reign amongst us. Under their 
 benign influence hoAV soon would all questions about property 
 be amicably adjusted ; for these are the principles on which 
 alone Ave can do to others as we would that they in similar 
 circumstances should do to us. 
 
 Had the company of dear old Elias Hicks at Westbury, and 
 at his own house, also at the monthly meeting at Jericho, 
 which I attended on fifth-day. In the afternoon had a meet- 
 ing at Oyster Bay, which was largely attended, and closed to 
 satisfaction and peace. Next day had a very large meeting at 
 L. Valentine's, near a bay called Musquito Cove, where I had 
 a meeting Avhen on the island fourteen years ago. This was 
 one of the best meetings I had on the island. Divine goodness 
 and love melted and united many hearts together in a precious 
 oneness of Christian feeling. Our cups seemed to overflow 
 with the fulness of heavenly consolation. All narrow, selfish, 
 sectarian feelings subsided, and pure, universal love breathed 
 its animating influence into many minds. Many of other so- 
 cieties attended. May the impressions received be long and 
 profitably retained, and may I bow in grateful adoration to 
 Him who gave me the qualification to minister to his humble, 
 
440 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1829. 
 
 dependent children. In the afternoon had a meeting at Cow- 
 neck, and the day following one at Flushing, Here the splen- 
 dour of wealth is displayed by the citizens of New York re- 
 tiring from business, and seeking for terrestrial happiness by 
 gratifying the sight of the eye and those short-lived animal 
 propensities which never can satisfy the desires of an immor- 
 tal soul. 
 
 First-day, 21st of sixth month. — Attended both meetings in 
 New York. They were large, and I felt peace in endeavour- 
 ing to discharge my duty among them. My impression is 
 there are some sincere, improving minds among the young 
 people there. But the gayety and amusements, the business 
 and the customs of this large city, appear to have gained too 
 much ascendency over many Friends, so that the principles 
 of plainness and simplicity, ever becoming a people professing 
 godliness, do not bring forth those fruits of consistency in 
 dress, address, and modes of living, which distinguished our 
 predecessors. The laws of kindness and friendly attention 
 are, however, in active operation among them ; at least I re- 
 ceived a full portion thereof, and was drawn into sympathy 
 with the seed of life, and with the tried and afflicted among 
 the inhabitants. 
 
 On second-day, had a meeting in the morning at AVest- 
 chester, and another in the afternoon at New Eochelle, 
 among Presbyterians, Episcopalians, Methodists, &c. Divers 
 men of account attended, and the doctrines of Truth were 
 declared among them in the demonstration of the Spirit. 
 
 After meeting, though much fatigued, I rode about nine 
 miles on the way to Middlesex, in Connecticut. We reached 
 the meeting in due season next day, and though small it was 
 comfortable. Thence we returned to Purchase and lodged. 
 The day following attended their large meeting, and had an 
 appointed meeting at North Castle in the afternoon. These 
 being the two meetings which were disappointed by reason of 
 my sudden return home on account of my wife's indisposition, 
 the opportunities were interesting to many, whose kind inquiries 
 bespoke their feeling sympathy on that afflicting occasion. 
 
 Fifth-day, had two meetings — one at Shappaqua in the 
 morning, and one at Croton Valley in the afternoon. They 
 
Chap. XTV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 441 
 
 were both satisfactory, favoured meetings. The reports and 
 cautions of those who have separated from us, operate to 
 cause many to attend our meetings, in order to hear and 
 judge for themselves. Inquiry is awakened, and Truth is 
 gaining ground in many seeking minds. In this my soul re- 
 joices, and is often renewed in the unshaken belief that amid 
 all these commotions the Lord Almighty is carr3ang on his 
 own work, and will yet more and more " beautify the place 
 of his sanctuary," in the minds of his gathered children, 
 while all that " lift up the heel" against his operations and 
 against his little ones, will wither as the branch that " abides 
 not in the vine." Oh ! how mournful the thought that some 
 who once knew the sap of life to flow in their hearts have 
 now become filled with a "root of bitterness," and appear to 
 have enlisted under the banner of the " accuser of the 
 brethren." 
 
 The twenty-sixth of sixth month, had a meeting at Salem 
 in the morning, which was a precious opportunity, and a very 
 large meeting at Amawalk in the afternoon. 
 
 Next day went on to Croton River, where we had a 
 favoured meeting in the meeting-house, and were comforted 
 together in the renewed feeling of brotherly love, and in the 
 edification mercifully vouchsafed. John and Phebe J. Merrit 
 acceptably attended with us. 
 
 Next day attended meeting again at Mamaroneck. This 
 was also a good meeting, and my mind now felt easy and re- 
 lieved, having endeavoured faithfully to discharge my duty. 
 
 In the afternoon rode to New York. My daughter Ann 
 met me here from Jericho, and we took steamboat and came 
 on to Rah way, where we lodged at our worthy friend J. 
 Hampton's. Next day travelled on to S. Comfort's, at the 
 JFalls, and on fourth-day, the 1st of seventh month, again 
 reached home. 
 
 In this journey I attended twenty-eight meetings, besides 
 the Yearly Meeting of New Y'^ork ; and in retrospect, have 
 abundant cause to thank God for the plenitude of his mercies 
 and the renewal of qualification to labour in the field " white 
 already unto harvest." However one messenger may plant 
 
442 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1829. 
 
 and another water, yet the heavenly increase is only of Grod, 
 through the co-operation of man with his grace inwardly re- 
 vealed. To encourage one another to give diligent heed to 
 this Divine gift, is the oiBce of brotherly love. But, oh ! how 
 few appear sufficiently devoted to the promotion of the work 
 of reformation, either in themselves or others. All are seek- 
 ing gain of one kind or other. But the gain of godliness, or 
 the treasures of the kingdom of heaven, if we may judge by 
 the fi'uits of conduct and conversation, do not appear to be 
 first or uppermost in the pursuits of vast numbers of the hu- 
 man family. Yet is there to be seen and felt a work of Di- 
 vine visitation among the children of men, and one here and 
 another there, who appear to be seeking first the kingdom of 
 heaven and the righteousness thereof. These become as 
 lights in the world, and through their faithful dedication the 
 work of reformation progresses ; light and knowledge are in- 
 creased ; clearer views of religion or godliness are manifested ; 
 prejudices and formal traditions diminish, and vital Chris- 
 tianity prevails. 
 
 Oh ! may all the overturnings and trials of the present day 
 become the means of loosing our attachment to this world, 
 and centei'ing our afi'ections on things above. 
 
 In the eighth month, 1829, I felt a motion of love to visit 
 the quarterly meetings of Concord and Cain. Accordingly, 
 left home and rode to Philadelphia alone, then went on to J. 
 E.'s, at Chester; and next day reached Concord, Avhere we 
 had a very interesting and satisfactory quarterly meeting. 
 May the praise be ascribed to Him who waters his heritage 
 in due season, that the plants of his OAvn right-hand planting 
 may be revived and nourished, so as to bring forth fruit to 
 the praise of his grace. 
 
 Here my kind friend E. Grarrigues joined me as companion 
 to Cain, and we reached David Hoopcs's that evening, where 
 we were kindly received and hospitably entertained. Next 
 morning we attended the quarterly meeting of ministers and 
 elders at Cain ; and the day following, the general meeting 
 for business at that place. Had an open time in public testi- 
 mony among them, after which my dear friend E. K. appeared 
 
Chap. XIV.] JOURNAL OF .TO TIN COMLY. 443 
 
 in a very feeling supplication. The meeting for business was 
 also a favoured season, and our hearts rejoiced together in 
 the goodness of God. Keached Kingsess after dark, and 
 lodged at E. G.'s. Next morning set out early toward home. 
 
 JOURNEY TO PARTS OP MARYLAND AND VIRGINIA. 
 
 On the 25th of eleventh month, 1829, set out in company 
 with C. P. as companion, to perform a visit of love to Friends 
 and others within some parts of Baltimore Yearly Meeting. 
 Keached Philadelphia in the evening, and stayed there next 
 day in the hope of adjusting some business relative to a trust 
 estate, but was disappointed, and felt the need of patience. 
 This being a pecuniary concern, I felt the more anxious for 
 its settlement previous to entering on this journey, from a 
 settled conviction that all such affairs should be satisfactorily 
 adjusted prior to leaving home on such embassies. After 
 opening the circumstances, and consulting with some friends 
 thereon, I felt easy to proceed on the journey, placing the 
 papers and authority to settle the business in the hands of my 
 valued friend William Wharton, should others concerned be 
 ready during my absence. 
 
 27th. The ground being covered with snow, we left the 
 city, and proceeded on our way toward Cain, where we arrived 
 a little after dark. Stayed the night with G. P. and wife, and 
 their dear old father, now declining with infirmities into the 
 vale of years, but alive in spirit in the vital principles of 
 Truth, and concerned for the peace and prosperity of the 
 Church. 
 
 Next day Ave travelled on to Lampeter, and lodged at 
 Thomas Peart's. Several friends and neighbours coming in, 
 the conversation was agreeable and instructive, and the social 
 bands strengthened. Notice having been spread, we attended 
 a pretty large meeting at Lampeter, which proved a refresh- 
 ing season, and the Master was knoAvn to some minds by the 
 breaking of bread on which the soul could feed. 
 
 In this place resides Sarah Gilbert, widow of Jesse, who 
 
444 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1829 
 
 was among the captives taken by the Indians in the year 
 1780, She has been in a helpless condition and mostly con- 
 fined to her bed for many years with rheumatic affection, 
 depriving her of the use of her limbs, till of latter time she 
 is favoured with the use of her hands. On visiting her I 
 found her cheerful, and left her refreshed by the call. How 
 deeply instructive are such scenes of what is called affliction 
 and privation ! What mind so hard as not to receive a lesson 
 of profitable instruction from contemplating the different allot- 
 ments of the children of men ? Who could read the narrative 
 of the captivity and sufferings of the Gilbert family, and behold 
 this afflicted object, without feeling gratitude for his own 
 exemption from such trials and miseries ? 
 
 On second-day morning, the 30th of eleventh month, we 
 went on through the rain to Columbia, Thomas Peart accom- 
 panying us to his son's. An evening meeting was appointed, 
 but the rain, thunder and lightning, with the darkness of the 
 evening, occasioned it to be small. It was, however, to me a 
 satisfactory opportunity. At Columbia are about thirteen 
 families and parts composing the meeting; several of these 
 live remote from the village. 
 
 Twelfth month 1st. — Crossed the Susquehanna on the 
 bridge, and went on to York, expecting the next day would 
 be their meeting day ; but finding the time had been altered 
 to fifth-day, after staying the night with that powerful minis- 
 ter, Thomas Wetherald, we had an appointed meeting next 
 day at York, and went on that afternoon to the house of 
 Thomas McMillen, at Warrington. On fifth-day attended 
 their mid-week meeting there ; notice having been spread, a 
 good many attended, and it was a satisfactory meeting, in 
 which T. Wetherald also ministered to the people. In the 
 afternoon, parting with Thomas, we went on to Newberry, 
 over very rough roads, about ten miles. Lodged at John I. 
 Garretson's, and on sixth-day had a favoured meeting at 
 Newberry, though not very large. Here formerly lived Ed- 
 ward Jones, a worthy, honest minister ; but now they are left, 
 few in number, and very little instrumental aid in stirring up 
 the pure mind by way of vocal testimony. Returned in the 
 evening to Thomas McMillin's, and my spirits became much 
 
Chap. XIV.] JOUKNAL OF .JOHN COMLT. 445 
 
 depressed under a load of exercise ; and in the continuance 
 thereof, the spreading and increase of a wrong spirit among 
 the people of this land was opened to my view, and I was led 
 into mourning for or on account of the desolations and miseries 
 which are the effects of it. The seed of the kingdom appeared 
 to be almost buried in many under the clods of hardness, that 
 abound ia the fallow ground, unbroken by the gospel plough. 
 
 On seventh-day went on to Huntington. Lodged at my 
 cousin Samuel Comly's, and next day attended meeting, 
 which was pretty large, and some close things laid home to 
 those to whom they belong. In the honest discharge of this 
 duty I felt peace ; and after meeting was ready to think my 
 previous baptism and close exercise might have some allusion 
 to the state of Friends there, although I had previously no 
 knowledge of it. Oh ! how lamentably do tale-bearing and 
 detraction sap the foundation of love and unity, and separate 
 very friends ! Yet is there a remnant of seeking minds in 
 this meeting. May they live and grow ! 
 
 On second-day morning, the 7th of twelfth month, we went 
 on, accompanied by Joel Garretson and wife, with several 
 other Friends, to a meeting appointed for us at Monallen, 
 which proved to be a very good meeting. An aged Presby- 
 terian attended, and gave evident marks of his feeling unity 
 with the testimony delivered. His character is that of a 
 quiet, retired, pious Christian. Dined and lodged at Jesse 
 Russell's, being the house formerly inhabited and owned by 
 that plain, honest, and zealous minister of the gospel, Abel 
 Thomas. But he is gone to enjoy the fruits of his labours in 
 the world of spirits. The meeting is left to be held in silence 
 as to vocal testimony. Yet are there minds who know a 
 dependence on the inward Teacher, and need not that any man 
 should teach them. May these be increased ! 
 
 On third-day we went on through Gettysburg, the county- 
 town of Adams county, and entered Maryland, going on to 
 Pipe Creek, situated in a fertile valley, and put up at dear old 
 Robert Hatton's, now in his 84th year. He expressed the 
 feelings of his heart in much gladness and comfort at seeing 
 us, and entertaining us in his hospitable mansion. Next day 
 we attended Pipe Creek meeting, and though not so large as 
 
446 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1829. 
 
 I expected to see in such a thickly-settled, fertile country, yet 
 it was a favoured opportunity. To Him who gave wisdom and 
 utterance be the praise of his own works, oft marvellous in 
 our eyes ! We were told of a family visit having lately been 
 performed here by Sarah Mathews and Bartholomew Fussel, 
 of which I was glad, assuredly believing that such labours of 
 love, when rightly performed, are like vernal showers to the 
 precious plants. 
 
 After dinner, and a melting parting opportunity with dear 
 old Robert Hatton and wife, we set out for New Market ; and 
 after encountering some of the worst, and most hilly, crooked 
 roads that we have found on our journey thus far, we arrived 
 at John Talbot's in the evening, having cause for gratitude 
 for Divine preservation. Found kind friends and an excel- 
 lent bed, on which we slept sweetly and peacefully in retro- 
 spect of this day's labour. 
 
 On fifth-day had a pretty large meeting at Bush Creek, 
 among Methodists, slaveholders, and others. Great stillness 
 and solemnity reigned till the close. 
 
 Twelfth month 10th. — Having passed through all the meet- 
 ings in Warrington quarter, except those over the mountains, 
 my mind has been introduced into much sympathy with the 
 few Friends remaining in these meetings, on account of their 
 stripped condition, by reason of so many of their members 
 having removed to the western country within a few years 
 past. About twenty families and parts of families now con- 
 stitute each of these meetings, where formerly there were 
 double the number. 
 
 Society being thus diminished, the privation is felt in the 
 exercise of the discipline, and by the young people particu- 
 larly. No schools are kept up among Friends ; hence their 
 children are growing up in ignorance. Associations are 
 formed with their German neighbours, and a general departure 
 from our testimony in favour of plainness is obvious. 
 
 Only four ministers remain in this quarter ; hence some of 
 their meetings have no public ministry among them, unless 
 strangers visit them, and a visit of this kind had not been 
 made at Pipe Creek for two years. On the whole, the society 
 appears to be on the decline in this quarter, and unless a 
 
Chap. XIV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 447 
 
 revival take place, and more zeal be felt among the remaining 
 few, I fear in a few years divers of these meetings will be 
 discontinued. Oh ! how I have wished for the revival of a 
 living gospel ministry in these parts, that might be the means 
 of gathering the lost and wandering, and those who are in- 
 quiring after substance. 
 
 " Still, slavery^ thou art a bitter portion !" exclaimed a cer- 
 tain writer. Slavery abounds here, and only yesterday a sale 
 of a number of these poor people was made, among other "goods 
 and chattels," in this neighbourhood. Another affecting circum- 
 stance occurred here lately. A slave was sold b}^ his master 
 some years ago to a Southern trader. He was torn from his 
 wife and children, and driven or carried to Augusta, in 
 Georgia, about seven hundred miles. From thence he escaped, 
 and made his way home to his wife and children through all 
 that distance, and the immense perils of such a journey 
 through slaveholding States. But, alas ! here he was not 
 safe. A person, lost to all feelings of humanity, who resides 
 in these parts, and acts as agent in taking up or kidnapping 
 black people, discovered him, arrested him, and put him in 
 jail till he could transport him to New Orleans under an 
 arbitrary claim on his person. Accordingly, he was sold and 
 sent to New Orleans ! But home, dear home, and liberty, 
 still dearer, prompted him again to seek his way back to his 
 native place. Three months had not elapsed before he 
 reached Mount Pleasant, Ohio, on his way homeward. Thence 
 he wrote to his friends about New Market, but has not again 
 returned to the jaws of the man-monster who here lurks for 
 his prey. 
 
 Now what reflections arise on a view of the immense hard- 
 ships this poor man has endured in claiming what Heaven 
 gave him, but man deprived him of ! " Shall I not visit for 
 these things, saith the Lord, and shall not my soul be avenged 
 on such a nation as this ?" 
 
 Several slaveholders were at meeting to-day, and the prin- 
 ciples of doing justly were held up to their view, as also of 
 loving mercy. Solemnity reigned and seemed to baptize the 
 assembly into a state of feeling. May the impressions be 
 lasting. A number of slaves have lately eloped from their 
 
448 JOURNAL OF JOnN CO?iILY. [1829, 
 
 masters, and left these parts in order to gain their freedom. 
 They generally bend their course toward Pennsylvania or 
 New York State. After dining with our kind friend John 
 Talbot and family, we went on to Abel Russel's to lodge, and 
 next day pursued our course, with him for a guide, through 
 Frederictown and a fertile tract of country thereabouts, and 
 onward till we reached the Potomac River. In this day's 
 journey we passed Manoquasy, a pretty large stream of water, 
 over which there is a spacious stone bridge. Not far from 
 this river Friends formerly had a settlement, and a meeting 
 was held here for a number of years, as is frequently men- 
 tioned in the journals of travelling Friends. But now there 
 are no members of our religious society here ; the meeting of 
 course is long since discontinued. Some solemn reflections 
 arising from the circumstance occupied my mind, and an in- 
 quiry why the light of the principles of Truth, as professed 
 by Friends, should thus disappear ? Is unfaithfulness and the 
 love of the world the cause of declension? Or has slavery 
 so darkened the mental atmosphere that the stars shine not 
 through the clouds of prejudice ? 
 
 On the road toward Noland's ferry is a vast body of land 
 held by a slaveholder, and farmed by his slaves, amounting to 
 near seven hundred. But he is said to be a humane, benevo- 
 lent man, who provides well for his slaves and treats them 
 with mildness, though intrusted to overseers. This mo- 
 nopoly of very large tracts of land appears to militate against 
 the improvement of the country and the prosperity of the 
 people. 
 
 As we entered Virginia, the roads appeared to be even 
 more neglected than in Maryland, and the travelling was con- 
 sequently very difficult. We, however, reached Waterford in 
 good season, and lodged at Isaac Walker's. 
 
 On seventh-day, though a very rainy time, we had a pretty 
 large and very comfortable meeting at Fairfax, near the village 
 of Waterford. In this meeting the doctrines of Truth flowed 
 with great sweetness and ease, and we were baptized together 
 in a precious cementing covering of Divine love, solemnizing 
 the mind into an awful stillness, in which no impatience or 
 weariness was felt or manifested. 
 
CnAP. XIV. 1 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 449 
 
 In the afternoon, we went on through a heavy rain and 
 high wind, the roads still bad, to Bernard Taylor's at Goose 
 Creek, and next day attended their large meeting there. This 
 is much the largest settlement of Friends that we have yet 
 met with in this Yearly Meeting, being about a hundred 
 families by computation, and situated in a fertile tract of 
 country called Loudon county. 
 
 Although there did not appear to have been any notice 
 spread as I had wished done, yet a large meeting assembled, 
 but to me it was a hard laborious season. I however got 
 through to the relief of my own mind ; and the more so as, 
 toward the close of my communication, I was led into near 
 sympathy with some impotent tried minds present; to whom 
 the word of encouragement to faithfulness and unreserved 
 dedication flowed with much affectionate solicitude. 
 
 At the close of the meeting, a young woman came up 
 through the crowd and spoke to me, but was so much affected 
 and broken into tears, that she could not for awhile suflSciently 
 compose herself to inform me how exactly her state had been 
 described; and expressed her hope that she should now be 
 able to advance in the path of duty opened before her. May 
 the great Husbandman water and nourish the seed sown, that 
 it may bring forth fruit to his praise. 
 
 On second-day, had a meeting at South Fork. There being 
 but few Friends there, some would fain have discouraged our 
 going there, and therefore had omitted sending on notice 
 till toward evening of first-day; yet notwithstanding the 
 shortness of the time, the meeting was large, chiefly composed 
 of Methodists and other denominations, and a heavenly 
 favoured season it was. 
 
 Although the meeting held long, such was the profoundly 
 solemn covering spread over it, that the people seemed un- 
 willing to rise when the customary signal was made to close 
 it. I have seldom witnessed such deep-felt solemnity, espe- 
 cially near the conclusion of meetings, as in divers instances 
 in this journey; and under the precious feeling have had un- 
 shaken evidence that God himself was manifesting his love to 
 the workmanship of his hands. Surely his mercy endureth 
 for ever to them that seek him. 
 29 
 
450 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1829. 
 
 Returned to our kind friend Isaac Nichols, and the prospept 
 of going over the mountains to Winchester and Hopewell 
 diminishing, we set out on third-day, morning the 15th of 
 twelfth month, and travelled over a rough turnpike road 
 about forty-three miles to Alexandria; and as I approached 
 the town, a caution seemed impressed on my mind, to avoid 
 the difficulty and loss which the wise men who came from the 
 East suffered by inquiring at Jerusalem and of Herod, "Where 
 is he that is born King of the Jews?" I saw that by suffer- 
 ing their attention to be diverted from the star, or little light 
 which had been their guide, they were in danger of losing 
 sight of it; but as they went on after this hindrance, they 
 were again mercifully cared for, and when they again saw the 
 star they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. I beheld deep 
 instruction in this narrative, and the necessity of keeping a 
 single eye to the alone safe guide. 
 
 Were kindly welcomed at the house of our dear friend 
 Edward Stabler, where, being weary with our journey, we 
 lodged, and next day, accompanied by Edward and two of his 
 daughters, attended the week-day meeting at Washington 
 city. It was small, and not a very lively season to me. Way 
 opened for some labour among the few Friends there, and E. 
 Stabler also appeared in an instructive communication among 
 them. This being the seat of the general government, where 
 the members of Congress meet annually from all parts of the 
 United States, and where also many foreigners from distant 
 nations resort on the affairs of government; it appears to me 
 of importance that Friends should hold up a clear light and 
 practical testimony in this place, to the nature of spiritual 
 worship, and to the coming and reign of the peaceable princi- 
 ples of the gospel. While Thomas Wetherald resided here, 
 numbers of the members of Congress, and of the officers of 
 government, frequently attended Friends' meetings. Now 
 that the meeting is often held in silence, it becomes more 
 needful that Friends should furnish an evidence to inquiring 
 minds, of the substance of vital religion, by their upright 
 example and diligent waiting in their religious meetings. 
 Under this view I was induced to impress on Friends the neces- 
 sity of so letting "their lights shine before men, that others 
 
Chap. XIV.] JOUKNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 451 
 
 seeing their good works" might glorify their heavenly Father, 
 by obedience to the light of Truth manifested in them- 
 selves. 
 
 Strangers visiting this city, are generally curious to see the 
 public buildings, and view the town ; but as our object was of 
 a different character, and not feeling much inclination to in- 
 dulge curiosity, we did not spend our time in this way, but 
 returned soon after dinner to Alexandria, and took tea and 
 passed the evening agreeably at Phineas Janney's with a 
 number of dear friends. 
 
 On fifth-day, the 17th, sat with Friends in their Aveek-day 
 meeting at Alexandria. Notice I believe had been circulated, 
 but the people are either so full fed, or so indifferent, or so 
 much engrossed with their worldly cares and business, that very 
 few of the inhabitants except Friends attended. It was not 
 to me a meeting of the most satisfactory kind, yet I felt 
 peace in my labours of love among them. 
 
 This morning had some very interesting and instructive 
 conversation with my dear friend Edward Stabler, and feel 
 increasingly united with him in spirit, and in those exalted 
 yet simple views which he takes of the vital principles of 
 pure religion. He has a remarkable gift of illustrating these 
 princples, as well in familiar conversation as in the ministry 
 of the word. Hence his company and converse is very en- 
 tertaining and instructive, and he is a practical follower of 
 the example of Jesus, the Anointed of God, who went about 
 doing good. 
 
 This evening we had another interesting conversation at 
 Abijah Janney's. Much social harmony and brotherly love 
 appear to prevail among the Friends of this town. 
 
 On sixth-day set out with Edward Stabler, and passing 
 through Washington, went on to Sandy Spring, about twenty- 
 eight miles. Most of the road was very laborious travelling ; 
 add to this, the weather was dull and rainy, with some snow. 
 The country barren, desolate, and poor, with only here and 
 there a miserable-lookinor tenement. Thousands and tens of 
 thousands of acres of land, worn out and now unenclosed, as 
 commons, apparently very poor, with only here and there a 
 scrubby tree or bush, and poverty-grass. All seemed to pro- 
 
452 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1829. 
 
 claim the curse of slavery, resting even on the soil. But 
 though the country and Aveather were dreary, not so the com- 
 pany and converse of my "worthy friend E. Stabler. Near 
 evening arrived at Roger Brooke's, where we were welcomed 
 and lodged. Rested on seventh day. Had a sitting in the 
 evening. 
 
 20th. Attended meeting at Sandy Spring. Notice had 
 been spread, and the meeting was pretty large, a number 
 being there who rarely attend Friends' meeting, and some 
 who it was thought had never been at such a meeting before ; 
 among whom was a young man just come from Yale College, 
 in New England. The meeting was an interesting one, and 
 held late ; but as it was long in gathering, and that occasioned 
 some unsettlement, so toward the close there was much less 
 of that solemn feeling or solemnity that has been witnessed 
 in divers other instances in this journey. I felt peace in my 
 endeavours to discharge my duty among them, and a hope is 
 felt that the labour will not all be lost. 
 
 This is one of the larger kind of meetings in Maryland, 
 and yet iB much diminished within a few years by deaths and 
 removals to the Western country. Nor are these the most 
 unfavourable circumstances attending the society here ; for 
 although a few retain marks of simplicity in their appear- 
 ance, the testimony of Truth in that respect is mournfully 
 departed from in many, affording but too certain an indica- 
 tion of mixing with the spirit and customs of the world. 
 The prospect of a succession of faithful standard-bearers, 
 and of the spreading of Truth by means of such " lights in 
 the world," in these parts through which I have travelled 
 thus far, is gloomy. 
 
 On parting with dear Deborah Stabler, I felt, and I believe 
 the feeling was mutual, a very near unity of spirit. She has 
 been highly esteemed, and deservedly so, in this Yearly Meet- 
 ing, for her sound judgment, her amiable disposition, and cour- 
 teous, engaging manner, as also for her lively, edifying gift 
 of gospel ministry. Within a few months past she has suf- 
 fered much, by reason of a hurt in the first place, occasioned 
 by a fall, and which was succeeded by extreme nervous sensi- 
 bility and great depression of her animal spirits. Of latter 
 
Chap. XIV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 453 
 
 time these afflictions appear to be subsiding, but she is still 
 confined, so that she does not much mingle in the social 
 circle, nor at all as yet get to meetings. Patience and quie- 
 tude appear to be the clothing of her mind ; and the sweet- 
 ness of gospel fellowship, in the unity of the one spirit of 
 pure love, was I trust livingly witnessed during our visit there. 
 
 Immediately in the neighbourhood of Sandy Spring, the 
 land is good ; but in two or three miles from the meeting- 
 house, we again entered poor, worn-out land, over which we 
 travelled about fourteen miles to Samuel Snowden's, where we 
 lodged ; and next morning, crossing the small river Patuxent, 
 went on six miles to a meeting appointed at Indian Spring, 
 which was a satisfactory one, though small. After meeting, 
 we went on about twenty miles, mostly through poor, barren 
 land, to Ellicott's Mills. On third-day, had a meeting there, 
 which was not large, the people being too busy to go to meet- 
 ing. A professed Deist was there, and some views were 
 opened tending to illustrate the nature of that religion which 
 purifies the heart, and enables man to overcome evil passions 
 and propensities. Whatever names or terms may be used, 
 the substance is known by obedience to the manifestations of 
 that which gives power over evil. 
 
 Previous to going to meeting had a satisfactory opportunity 
 in the sick chamber of a granddaughter of Isaac Child, by the 
 name of Atkinson. She was much afflicted with a cancerous 
 afiection, and had been labouring for resignation to her allot- 
 ment, but had given way to much discouragement. A com- 
 fortable calm was felt in her company, and advice flowed 
 sweetly and freely toward her, tending to renew her confi- 
 dence in the beneficent dealings of Infinite Goodness, in all 
 the trials of this life, and encouraging with a lively hope that 
 these light afflictions, which are but as for a moment, will, as 
 they are patiently endured, " woi'k for us a far more exceed- 
 ing and eternal weight of glory." 
 
 After meeting met with James P. Stabler, an improving 
 young man, who, if faithful, may yet have more publicly to 
 advocate the cause of Truth in the earth. He said he had 
 taken some pains to invite the person aforementioned to 
 meeting. He also remarked that many goodly people were 
 
454 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1829. 
 
 Christians without knowing it ; for all who are actuated by a 
 Christian spirit, (which is the spirit of Christ,) must so far be 
 Christians, whatever may be their name or profession. The 
 substance is good works, as the fruit of good principles. Now 
 these are all of one root, principle, or operation, let the name 
 or pretension be as it may ; while, however high and sacred 
 may be the profession, if the works are evil, if the principles 
 are wrong, no seeming good fruits are of any avail. Hence, 
 the genuine spirit of true religion will always manifest itself 
 in words, acts, and feelings of goodness, love, peace, gentle- 
 ness, mercy, patience, honesty, moderation, and temperance, 
 with many other heavenly qualities, constituting that "fine 
 linen, pure and white, which is the righteousness of saints." 
 
 Arrived in Baltimore in the evening of 22d of twelfth 
 month, and next day attended their week-day meeting at 
 Lombard street. It was small ; only about forty men were 
 present, but a large number of females. I was disappointed 
 in seeing so few, more especially as I had requested notice to 
 be spread. It was, however, a season of deep sympathy with 
 a tried remnant there, as also of some close, searching labour 
 with some present who were too much cumbered and careful 
 about many things of this world, while the " one thing need- 
 ful" was too much neglected. 
 
 Some Friends seemed a little mortified at the smalluess of 
 the meeting, alleging it was a very busy time. I suspect, in 
 addition to the business of the world, very little information 
 had been given of my desire to see them more generally to- 
 gether. 
 
 On fifth-day attended meeting at Old Town. A little larger 
 than that at Lombard-street, but small. 
 
 Business engagements, the pursuit of wealth, and the al- 
 most universal subject of the railroad, seemed so to engross 
 the attention of all classes. Friends as well as others, that 
 there appears little room for subjects or meetings of a reli- 
 gious character. I had some close, searching labour among 
 them, and though I have to mourn over many thus entangled 
 in the perplexing cares and anxieties of life, yet, believing 
 there is an exercised remnant in this busy city, I felt easy to 
 go on, although a number of friends appeared desirous we 
 
Chap. XIV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 455 
 
 should stay over first-day, when we might see more people to- 
 gether. Alas ! if Friends cannot leave their worldly business 
 to attend meetings, how can we expect others of different 
 habits and professions to assemble with us, unless, indeed, 
 there were more days set apart by law or custom as meeting- 
 days. In the afternoon went on to Eli Matthews's, at Gun- 
 powder, where we had a comfortable meeting with Friends 
 and others next day. More plainness of apparel and marks 
 of simplicity are obvious here, than in many of the meetings 
 which I have visited within the limits of Baltimore Yearly 
 Meeting. The ancient testimony of Truth which distinguished 
 Friends in early times, appears to be little attended to among 
 Friends' children and families in these parts ; less consist- 
 ency of appearance is manifest than within Philadelphia 
 Yearly Meeting, although with us there is a great departure 
 from the self-denial of Christ. The customs of a vain world 
 are as much from under the cross notv, as in former days ; 
 hence if the limitations and restrictions of the principle of 
 Truth are obediently observed, the faithful must walk in a 
 "narrow way," as respects the customs of apparel, furniture, 
 high-living, expensive equipage, and the pursuit of wealth, 
 honour, and amusements. But, alas ! how few appear to ad- 
 here closely to this "plain way of living;" and the conse- 
 quences are obvious in the decline of our religious society. 
 This is the more to be regretted, because with this declension 
 of zeal the meetings of Friends are less lively, Aveighty and 
 solemn ; and consequently, seeking, inquiring minds, (of whom 
 there are many at this day,) when they attend meeting with 
 us, do not feel that evidence of what they are seeking, all 
 our high profession notwithstanding. Surely God will raise 
 up a people to his praise, who shall stand as lights in the 
 world, inviting others to " come, taste and see that the Lord 
 is good." 
 
 After meeting we rode on to Little Falls, and arrived at 
 David Preston's a while after dark ; when being cloudy, it was 
 a little difficult to find the road and to avoid dangers. How- 
 ever, through the good providence of our great Caretaker, 
 we arrived safely, and were kindly received. Next day, which 
 was a very rainy one, we had a meeting at the meeting-house 
 
456 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1829. 
 
 in the neighbourhood. A greater zeal for getting to meeting 
 through the storm was manifested here than in many other 
 places, and it Avas a comfortable opportunity. This is the 
 meeting that was gathered through the faithfulness and la- 
 bours of William Amoss, of whom a testimony was given forth 
 by Gunpowder monthly meeting in the year 1815, which is 
 worthy of publication. 
 
 After meeting we dined at Nathaniel HosMns's, who is a 
 widower with a large family of children, toward whom a silent 
 sympathy was felt. 
 
 We then Avent on, through the rain, to John Jewett's at 
 Deer Creek, and attended meeting there next day, which was 
 first-day. It was very small, and to me a laborious season. 
 I, however, found some relief in a close communication ; but 
 left them with a heavy heart, and went on to Samuel Hop- 
 kins's to dine. Here we stayed the night, and in the evening 
 had the company of a talking, disputing doctor. My compa- 
 nion, and S. Hopkins and sons, engaged with him on a variety 
 of subjects of a religious nature. I listened awhile, then re- 
 tired to another room to enjoy quietness. He appeared to be 
 a rigid Calvinist, and an advocate for war. 
 
 On the 28th we went on to Broad Creek, and had a very 
 satisfactory meeting there, in a little, crowded house. Divers 
 important doctrinal views, with practical illustrations, were 
 here opened in Truth's clearness and Divine authority. After 
 meeting, I found the doctor had followed us, and was at this 
 memorable meeting. Oh ! may his heart be humbled and 
 obedient ! He spoke to us in a friendly manner, and we 
 parted. 
 
 On the 29th of twelfth month we had a good meeting at 
 Fawn ; and that afternoon, crossed the river Susquehanna at 
 McCall's ferry, and reached Isaac Bolton's at Drumore, in the 
 evening. Since we left Deer Creek, we had the acceptable 
 company of James Coale as a guide. Next day attended 
 Drumore meeting. Several of my old neighbours and ac- 
 quaintances settled in these parts appear to be improv- 
 ing. After dining at David Parry's, we went on to Jeremiah 
 Brown's to lodge ; and on the last day of the year, attended 
 Little Britain meeting. Also had a meeting in the afternoon 
 
Chap. XIV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 457 
 
 at Eastland, ■vvhlcli to me was a satisfactory season. Spent 
 the evening with our aged friend John Kinsey, ho sat up till 
 late in friendly conversation. Although he does not associate 
 with us, his feelings of aiFection and interest do not appear 
 to be much changed. Next day we had a meeting appointed 
 at Octoraro, which was comfortable. Dined and lodged at 
 William Preston's. Here I found the interesting minutes and 
 records of Nottingham and Little Britain preparative meeting 
 of ministers and elders, by which I learned that John Jones, 
 the author of the Analysis of the Book of Revelations, settled 
 at Little Britain a little prior to the second month, 1788. That 
 Benjamin Mason was appointed to the station of an elder in 
 the year 1795, and was instrumental in the setting up of East- 
 land meeting. Nottingham appears to be the oldest established 
 meeting in these parts ; and it is said William Penn gave forty 
 acres of land for its use, and that he often visited it. George 
 Churchman was appointed an elder of Nottingham meeting in 
 the year 1764. Deer Creek meeting was set off from Notting- 
 ham about the year 1771. At this meeting James Ptigbee 
 lived, and was for a time a very acceptable minister. A cloud 
 then came over him for a time, but at length it was dispelled, 
 and his sun set in brightness. 
 
 In the year 1804, Nottingham monthly meeting Avas divided, 
 and Little Britain set off from it ; since which it has continued 
 as formerly, till it and some other monthly meetings were con- 
 stituted a quarterly meeting, and attached to Baltimore Yearly 
 Meeting. Many worthy Friends have resided in these parts, 
 and their seed is not forsaken. 
 
 First month 2d, 1830. — We were at a meeting at West Not- 
 tingham, and on first-day, being the third, were at a large 
 meeting at the brick meeting-house, or East Nottingham, near 
 the former residence of John Churchman. It was not to me 
 so satisfactory as some other seasons. I laboured under the 
 effects of a cold and hoarseness, and left the meeting under a 
 sense of something wanting that could not be numbered. 
 Dined and lodged at my kind friend Peter Askew's ; and the 
 next day he and two of his precious daughters accompanied us 
 to a meeting appointed at a place called Elk, where Friends 
 hold an indulged meeting. It was a most precious, instruc- 
 
458 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1830. 
 
 tive, and baptizing season, that will do to reflect on with 
 satisfaction, under a sense of the Divine favour and pre- 
 sence graciously vouchsafed to us. May the praise be 
 ascribed to his ever excellent name, who is worthy now and 
 for ever. 
 
 On the 5th had a meeting at a place called Spencer's 
 Meeting, and went on to lodge at Ephraim Jackson's. Had 
 a meeting the next day at Hockessin, and the day folloAv- 
 ing at Centre. In the morning, being the 7th of first month, 
 my mind was opened to behold the operations of Divine Good- 
 ness, in making use of outward things to arrest the attention, 
 and thus conveying deep instruction to the teachable mind, 
 under which I noted as follows : 
 
 As light rises, discoveries are made that the image of God is 
 stamped on all his works : that image is goodness. All his 
 works remain good that man has not perverted and abused. 
 To aid in the discovery, and also the recovery of the "Divine 
 image in man," the invisible things of God (of goodness) are 
 clearly seen when understood by the things that are made, 
 even his eternal power and godhead (or goodness.) All nature 
 in the order of God, is a revelation of His goodness. Hence 
 the utility and propriety, as a means of the discovery, and to 
 promote the love of God, of presenting to the minds of chil- 
 dren, in early life, examples of goodness, gentleness, brotherly 
 kindness, mercy, truth, and peace. First, remove from their 
 view and observation all examples and scenes of discord, harsh- 
 ness, hatred, cruelty, war, contention, and falsehood ; in which 
 are included the relation of the feats of ambition, the sangui- 
 nary conflicts of war, the praise of heroes, the narratives of 
 battles, murders, assassinations, and acts of cruelty, and the 
 history of wickedness. 
 
 Instead thereof, let their susceptible and innocent minds 
 become familiarized with the pictures and representations of 
 filial affection, of parental tenderness, of brotherly kindness, 
 of innocence and peace, of the image of God in the works of 
 nature, or of the visible creation. Thus righteousness would 
 flourish, and the youthful mind, trained up in the way it should 
 go, would become habituated to the exercise of goodness, of 
 mercy, truth, and peace ; instead of which, oh ! how is the 
 
Chap. XIV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 459 
 
 Divine image defaced in the children of men hy the examples 
 of pride, lust, ambition, avarice, and cruelty, exerting their 
 baneful influence on the tender minds of children. How are 
 the tales of vanity, of deception, and artifice, the conversa- 
 tions of men deeply rooted in an earthly mind, and the innu- 
 merable publications that go to counteract the life of goodness, 
 continually operating to spoil the tender plants of the heavenly 
 Father's own right hand planting in the minds of children ; 
 and among the myriads of mortals who are passing through 
 this probationary state, how few there are that appear suffi- 
 ciently to lay these things to heart, so as to lift up a standard 
 against their deleterious influence. 
 
 Yet, with some, light is rising and spreading. Clearer dis- 
 coveries are made of the excellency of goodness, and of the 
 way and means, and the simplicity thereof, by which the Di- 
 vine image may be restored. Practical righteousness, fruits 
 of goodness of heart, are seen to be of more avail than volumes 
 of self-made prayers, or the dogmas of formal religionists. 
 Pure love, that works no ill to a fellow-creature, but whose 
 fruits are in all goodness, is more clearly seen to be the essence 
 of pure religion ; and amid all the glooms and discouraging 
 prospects that sometimes cloud the mental view, there are yet 
 evident marks of the operation of Divine power and light, and 
 a progressive woi'k is going on in the earth, tending to gather 
 all nations into that state wherein they shall see more light. 
 
 After the meeting at Centre we proceeded homeward. Called 
 at J. P.'s and passed the night, and next day reached home, 
 having been absent about six weeks, travelled by computation 
 about six hundred miles, and attended thirty-two meetings. 
 
460 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1830. 
 
 CHAPTER XV. 
 
 After the sore conflicts endured by the Society of Friends 
 in the separation — after the labours of the general commit- 
 tee of our Yearly Meeting in establishing order and peace 
 among the members — the state of our religious society in 
 various places within our borders seemed yet to require the 
 extension of care, of sympathy, and of counsel ; and no 
 way appeared more likely to unite the different branches of 
 the Yearly Meeting than by a committee appointed in that 
 meeting to extend care and feel after the pointings of Truth 
 and Wisdom, in relation to the duties owing by the body to 
 its members. 
 
 Accordingly, on the subject being spread before the Y'early 
 Meetings, a committee of men Friends was appointed to the 
 service. On sitting down together at the close of the Y'^early 
 Meeting, in order to feel after the mind of Truth, a comfort- 
 able, cementing evidence was furnished of the ownings of best 
 Help. The committee entered into a general view of the 
 nature of the concern, and of the state of society. The 
 result of this conference was a renewed engagement to en- 
 deavour to keep alive in the concern thus graciously owned, 
 and to move therein as way opens under the qualifying influ- 
 ence of the power of Truth. With this encouragement it was 
 concluded that the committee proceed to attend the approach- 
 ing quarterly meetings. 
 
CH.VP. XV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 461 
 
 In pursuance of this concern our dear father was much engaged 
 during the succeeding year, in company with others of the com- 
 mittee, in attending most of the quarterly and monthly meet- 
 ings constituting the Yearly Meeting, of which service memo- 
 randums were preserved, chiefly relating to the states of the 
 meetings visited, the members composing them, and the labours 
 of the committee ; yet some of the narratives of his own exer- 
 cises and feelings, while thus officially engaged, are interest- 
 ing and instructive. Having attended the quarterly meetings of 
 Philadelphia, Abington, Concord, Salem, and Western, in the fifth 
 month, 1830, the narrative continues : 
 
 On the 22d, intending for the Southern quarter, to be 
 held at Easton, in Maryland, I set out, accompanied by a 
 Friend, and travelled over excellent but dreary roads and 
 a flat level country toward Cecil. In passing through a 
 kind of village, containing a few old-looking and decay- 
 ing wooden buildings, we stopped at a tavern to have our 
 horse fed. Among other advertisements stuck up was the 
 following : 
 
 " Cash for Negroes. — The subscriber wishes to purchase a few likely 
 young Negroes, of both sexes, for which he will give the highest cash 
 prices. Stephen Denning. 
 
 " Chestertown, May 8, 1830." 
 
 How long will the Christian name be dishonoured by a 
 traffic in human flesh ? How long will the Eastern Shore of 
 Maryland be disgraced by such advertisements as the above? 
 An observing mind, passing through those countries where 
 slavery has long existed, is almost involuntarily led to the 
 conclusion that the very ground is cursed on that account. 
 But the chain of connection by which the soil is aflfected is 
 easily traced. Slavery produces idleness, luxury, dissipation, 
 and corruption in and among those who are slaveholders. 
 
462 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1880. 
 
 These evils contaminate society, banish industry and improve- 
 ment, and debase the character of man. Hence the agricul- 
 tural interest and improvement of the soil is neglected. Till- 
 age by slaves is wretchedly managed ; buildings and improve- 
 ments go to decay. The slaves have no interest, no excite- 
 ment to industry, but the lash. The owners of the land are 
 mostly idle, and will neither work nor see to have work pro- 
 perly done ; for, not being brought up to labour themselves, 
 they know not how to direct others. All appears to be 
 progressing in wretchedness and poverty. 
 
 We reached Joseph Turner's, at Cecil, a little before night, 
 and our spirits were revived and comforted with the cordial 
 reception of this dear friend and his wife. Next day, being 
 first-day, though a very rainy one, we went three miles to 
 attend Cecil meeting. Some notice had been spread of our 
 intention of being there, but there were only about five and 
 twenty persons present. Some labour was extended by way 
 of encouragement among them, although the life of pure 
 religion seems low in the slaveholding countries, especially 
 the vitality of public social worship ; so that although a meet- 
 ing was proposed at a place called Chestertown, for the 
 afternoon, no way appeared to open in my mind for such a 
 measure- 
 On second-day, in company with J. T. and wife, we rode to 
 Howell Bowers's, about three miles from Easton, and lodged 
 there. During our stay here we were informed that Mary 
 Berry, a worthy dedicated minister, passed the latter five 
 years of her life in this house. She was chiefly confined to 
 her room, except going to meetings ; and when apparently 
 unable to stand, was strengthened to rise in meeting, and to 
 speak with life and power for a considerable time, sometimes 
 an hour or more, without apparent fatigue. To those who sat 
 under her pure and living ministry, an evidence was thus fur- 
 nished that she was supported and qualified with supernatural 
 strength of body as well as of mind, verifying the apostolic 
 assertion, " If the spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the 
 dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead 
 shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his spirit that 
 
Chap. XV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 463 
 
 dwelleth in you." The memory of this dear friend is yet 
 precious in this neighbourhood, and there are those who can 
 yet testify to her unblamable life and conversation. She was 
 diligent in the attendance of religious meetings, even when 
 her bodily powers had so far failed through age and infirmity 
 that she had to be carried from her carriage to her seat in the 
 meeting-house, and back to the carriage after meeting ; an 
 evidence of that holy spirit of fervent love that dwelt in her. 
 She was the wife of James Berry ; was born at Wilmington, 
 and died at Easton. See Job Scott's account of her. 
 
 25th and 26th. Attended the quarterly meeting at Third- 
 haven, near Easton, which was small. The discouraging and 
 declining state of Friends, as to the diminution of their num- 
 bers, seems to affect them sensibly. Some labour was allotted 
 me in the exercise of the discipline, in which way opened to 
 excite to industry and an application of the talents committed 
 to our charge, in order that the convulsions in our religious 
 society may be sanctified to our growth in the Truth. Felt 
 peace in discharging my duty among them. But the most 
 discouraging circumstances attending the diminishing state 
 of this quarter, are the inactivity and want of dedication to 
 the service of Truth among the members who yet remain, and 
 their mingling too much with the spirit, and customs, and 
 policies of the world. 
 
 We stayed their public or general meeting next day, in- 
 tending then to leave Easton ; but in the afternoon a pro- 
 posal was made by a Friend of the town, respecting a public 
 meeting. On weighing the subject carefully, I found my 
 peace concerned in giving up to have an evening meeting in 
 the court-house, which was cordially united with by Friends 
 present ; and accordingly notice was spread, and it was a 
 large, full, and solemn opportunity. Divine help was merci- 
 fully afforded to bear testimony to the truth in Truth's 
 authority. May the glory redound to the bountiful Giver of 
 all right qualification to labour successfully in his cause. 
 
 Next day we left Easton with peaceful and thankful hearts, 
 and reached John Thurners, at the head of Chester, where we 
 were kindly lodged and agreeably entertained by the two 
 brothers and families. 
 
464 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1830. 
 
 29tli. We set out for liome, and after travelling some miles 
 found it needful to stop at a tavern in a village to feed our 
 horse ; during whieh interval I made the following remarks 
 with a pencil : — 
 
 " The life of God in the soul is the true happiness of man. 
 
 " The Spirit of God ruling and directing the powers of man, 
 constitutes the kingdom of heaven within him. 
 
 <' This is true religion ; and it produces all the comfort and 
 happiness in this life, as also prepares the soul for the enjoy- 
 ment of perfect bliss in the world to come." 
 
 A profit results from filling up a leisure moment in penning 
 impressions or views and sentiments that may be of use to 
 ourselves or others in future. Employment is better than 
 listless idleness. In all right labour there is profit ; and gain 
 we all seek. Let it be of a heavenly kind, and the more the 
 better. 
 
 Seventh month 3d. — Set out from home to attend some of 
 the monthly meetings in the Western quarter, accompanied by 
 G. W. of Philadelphia. Reached Chester that afternoon, and 
 attended meeting there the next morning. Most of those who 
 were present were young people whose deportment was solid 
 and becoming, and a hope was felt that some of their minds 
 were profitably affected and edified. 
 
 In the afternoon had a highly favoured meeting at Chiches- 
 ter. It was large, solemn, and interesting. Doctrine, counsel, 
 admonition, and encouragement flowed in a current of life that 
 seemed to baptize many present with a holy spirit; and we 
 rejoiced in the goodness of the bountiful Caretaker of his flock 
 and people. Next day attended Centre monthly meeting, and 
 thence returned home. 
 
 In the eighth month attended most of the monthly meetings 
 of Cain and Western quarters. 
 
 11th. At London Grove monthly meeting. 
 
 12tli. At New Garden monthly meeting, which was to me 
 a laborious season, and sackcloth was the inward covering of 
 my spirit. Too much of the world's Avisdom is mixed with 
 religious matters in some minds, according to my sense. Much 
 
Chap. XV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 465 
 
 talent and mental energy are among them, but in great clanger 
 of being misdirected ; and some are in danger of being wise 
 in their own conceits, to the stumbling and leading astray of 
 the simple and inexperienced. 
 
 In the afternoon, rode on to the hospitable, quiet mansion 
 of Samuel Pennock, to lodge. Next day attended Fallowfield 
 monthly meeting, now first held at Doe Run, but the house 
 was too small to contain the people. It was a meeting in 
 which Divine kindness was manifest. Some worthy Friends 
 here, and some who need to "trim their lamps." 
 
 After meeting rode to Humphrey Marshall's and lodged, 
 and next day reached home. 
 
 On the 7th of tenth month, 1830, under circumstances of 
 a peculiarly trying nature, and which had been pressing on 
 my mind for some days, I left home, in sympathy with the 
 seed of life, to visit Friends beyond the mountains. This 
 concern being in accordance with the objects of our last Yearly 
 Meeting, in appointing a committee to extend care toward 
 Friends under various circumstances of trial and difficulty, 
 two of that committee, S. C. and H. J., bore me company. 
 Had a pensive ride to Kimberton, where we arrived in the 
 evening, and met a cordial and hospitable reception. Among 
 other subjects during the evening, the afflicted state of the 
 Cherokee Indians southward was brought into view, and their 
 address to the inhabitants of these United States, as lately 
 published in the public newspapers, was read — producing on 
 our minds a feeling of deep commiseration toward that inno- 
 cent, oppressed people. May Heaven plead their cause 
 against their oppressors, seemed the spontaneous prayer that 
 arose on the occasion. 
 
 8th. Accompanied by Emmor Kimber we rode on to Potts- 
 town, where he left us, and we pursued our way to Maiden 
 Creek. My mind througli this day's ride was inward and re- 
 tired ; and the theme of my desire was, that I might live on 
 angel's food, and the necessity of waiting for it, and gather- 
 ing it little by little, was impressed on my mind. 
 30 
 
466 JOUKNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1830. 
 
 Next day rode on to Pottsville, and lodged at Job El- 
 dridge's. This town has increased in buiklings and popula- 
 tion since I was here two years ago ; now it is a crowded, busy 
 place. Finding that there are a number of Friends in and 
 about this village, my mind was impressed with a desire to 
 have a meeting with them, and to have such information 
 spread as would give others an opportunity of sitting down 
 with us in silence. The basement story of an Episcopal 
 meeting-house was obtained, and a meeting appointed to be 
 held on first-day afternoon. 
 
 On first-day morning went on to Minersville, a new settle- 
 ment, about four miles westAvard. Here we sat down at about 
 ten o'clock with a few Friends and others residing here, and 
 had a good meeting at a private house. Returned to Pottsville, 
 and attended a pretty large meeting appointed as aforesaid. 
 The people were solid and attentive, and Divine Goodness con- 
 descended to raise my drooping mind, and qualified to bear tes- 
 timony to the truth of that saying of Solomon, "It is righteous- 
 ness that exalteth a nation, but sin is a shame to any people," 
 and by inference applicable to any community, village, family, 
 or individual. This opened the way to preach the gospel of 
 the kingdom of God, and to press the necessity of making it 
 a primary concern and object; to "seek first the kingdom of 
 heaven and the righteousness thereof," as that which would 
 exalt the character of this village and neighbom-hood, and 
 place their happiness and advancement on a permanent basis. 
 The great improvements in building, &c. were adverted to as 
 having occurred since my being here two years ago, and an 
 inquiry raised whether a corresponding improvement in mind, 
 manners, and conduct was realized among them. It was a 
 season thankfully to be remembered. May the glory redound 
 to Him who was mercifully pleased to give and seal instruction 
 on our minds. 
 
 On the 12th, set out for Roaring Creek, and travelled on over 
 the Broad mountain, the Big mountain, and the Little moun- 
 tain, to Moses Starr's, in Roaring Creek Valley, where we 
 lodged ; and next morning went on to Catawissa, where we 
 attended monthly meeting. A considerable number of the 
 people of the town came in, and it was a watering, heavenly 
 
Chap. XV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 467 
 
 season. The meeting for discipline was attended by about 
 fourteen men, and perhaps as many -women. One man 
 ninety-thj-ee years of age was present, and many of the 
 others are advanced in years. Very few of the youth remain 
 members of society ; so that the prospect of a succession, or 
 even the continuance of the monthly meeting, appears very 
 discouraging, and is felt so by some of the members. Some 
 of our labours among them tended to encourage the feeble- 
 minded, and to excite to diligence in discharge of the duties 
 incumbent on us as members of religious society. 
 
 In the afternoon, accompanied by Benjamin Sharpless, we 
 set out for Fishing Creek, where we arrived safely before 
 dark, and were hospitably received and kindly entertained by 
 our mutual friend Chandler Eves. Of him we learned some- 
 what of the tried state of Friends in Muncy monthly meet- 
 ing ; and the next day being their preparative meeting, I 
 felt most easy to remain at my lodgings, while the other 
 friends, S. C. and H. J., accompanied the family to meeting ; 
 and at three o'clock in the afternoon we met the Friends of 
 that meeting in conference. But though they seemed to 
 "sigh by reason of their bondage," they appeared so " fear- 
 ful and faint-hearted," that it was some time before they 
 could be induced to open their state, their trials, and diffi- 
 culties to us. A few, however, did inform us of the scat- 
 tered, weak state of the monthly meeting ; that they had no 
 voice in the transacting of business, which was principally 
 done by two or three individuals. All seemed discouraging. 
 But at length a hope arose that something may be done to 
 revive their drooping spirits, by uniting with Friends of the 
 other branches in endeavouring to regain their standing, and 
 the enjoyment of their rights and privileges in society. 
 
 Next morning went on to Muncy, to attend a meeting ap- 
 pointed there at three o'clock in the afternoon. Some diffi- 
 culty occurred in regard to our occupying the meeting-house, 
 objection being made by the opposing party ; but the house 
 was opened, and we had a comfortable, solid meeting to- 
 gether, after which a conference was held with Friends by 
 themselves, when we found much energy and zeal among the 
 few oppressed members here, and they appear quite prepared 
 
468 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1830. 
 
 for regaining the enjoyment of their privileges by re- 
 organizing Muncy monthly meeting of Friends ; and for this 
 purpose a committee was named to confer with Friends of 
 Fishing Creek on the occasion. 
 
 Tenth month IGth. — " He that gathereth not with me scat- 
 tereth abroad," is a Divine truth uttered by the spirit of 
 Christ. It opened on my mind, on waking this morning, 
 that this is verified at this day, and adds another criterion or 
 standard by which to weigh and judge of the temper, con- 
 duct, and proceedings of the two societies who claim the 
 name of Friends. 
 
 The spirit of assumed authority has lamentably tended to, 
 and actually has produced a scattering of the flock, as in the 
 cloudy and dark day. The arbitrary proceedings of a few 
 have scattered the affections of a considerable portion of 
 these meetings ; the unity and harmony are broken ; the in- 
 terests of society are divided, and they cannot walk together 
 as formerly. 
 
 We are charged by some with making a division in the 
 society. But how stands the fact? Our object is to gather 
 with Christ into unity, harmony, and peace; to gather the 
 oppressed and scattered members of Muncy monthly meet- 
 ing ; to sit down together as under the vine and fig-tree of 
 pure love, and hold their meetings for worship and discipline 
 as friends of peace and of order. The spirit of God gathers 
 and unites. 
 
 Prosperity, ease, the friendship and honour of men, becom- 
 ing the life and food of the soul, produces a state of aliena- 
 tion from the Divine life, and engenders corruption of prin- 
 ciple and degeneracy of conduct from that purity of heart 
 intended as the happiness of the human family. 
 
 In this state of corruption and degeneracy, man loves to 
 receive honour and pre-eminence from his fellow-man, and 
 seeks not the honour that comes from God only. Hence, 
 says Divine wisdom, " How can ye believe which receive 
 honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh 
 from God only?" 
 
 This belief or faith in God, which is demonstrated by good 
 works, is the foundation of every Christian mind. It works 
 
Chap. XV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 469 
 
 by love to the purifying of the heart, and thus restoring man 
 to the image or resemblance of his Maker. From this foun- 
 dation or root, all the fruits of the spirit of love, of joy, of 
 peace, of long-suffering, of gentleness, goodness, meekness, 
 temperance, patience, godliness, and brotherly kindness, in- 
 crease and abound. 
 
 From the above views and considerations, it may be per- 
 ceived how the spirit of pride has risen up in the religious 
 Society of Friends, showing itself in a disposition to claim 
 authority in the church, to assume to itself the standard of 
 doctrine, and profess itself sound. Hence has arisen the 
 difficulties and arbitrary measures which have shaken the 
 society, and produced convulsions, rents, and schisms in the 
 body. 
 
 This morning, accompanied by a young man as pilot, we 
 rode on to Samuel Carpenter's at Pine Grove, up the Loyal- 
 sock River; arrived there near dinner time, and were kindly 
 received by him and his wife. After a full and free conversa- 
 tion with these intelligent Friends on the state of things 
 among Friends here, we concluded on having a meeting next 
 day at the usual hour at the meeting-house, and notice was 
 circulated accordingly. 
 
 17th. We had a crowded, but solemn, quiet, and satisfactory 
 meeting at Pine Grove, sometimes called Bloomingrove. lifter 
 which, Friends were requested to remain together, and a season 
 of conference was had in which they were encouraged, and 
 concluded to resume holding their meeting for worship at this 
 place. A paper was drawn up and signed by several of the 
 adult members, and some appointed to appear with it on be- 
 half of the rest, in a meeting of more general conference with 
 the other branches of Muncy monthly meeting, to open the 
 way for holding their meetings for discipline apart from their 
 dissenting brethren. 
 
 Dined at S. Carpenter's with divers other Friends, and some 
 of my relatives settled in this country. Friends and others 
 appeared glad in the prospect of again having their meeting 
 established ; and our minds rejoiced in the blessings so far 
 resulting from or attending our labours to revive the decayed 
 and drooping state of our religious society in these remote 
 
470 JOUENAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1830. 
 
 meetings. Their strength, energy, and zeal appear to have 
 been declining for some years, and it may be that Friends 
 have been too unmindful of their condition, and have too much 
 neglected them. 
 
 Parting with Friends at Pine Grove in much nearness of 
 feeling and of friendly regard, we rode back to Pennsborough, 
 where we lodged ; and on second-day, being very rainy, had a 
 pretty large public meeting in a school-house, built also for a 
 meeting-house. A considerable number of Methodists and 
 other societies attended, and it was a solemn satisfactory op- 
 portunity. Prejudices that had been excited against Friends 
 were removed, as was believed, from many minds ; the bap- 
 tizing power of Truth was felt, and love and charity prevailed, 
 tending to unite the professed followers of Christ one to 
 another. Oh ! how has the spirit of discord and false 
 accusation been sowing its baneful seeds of strife, censo- 
 riousness, and evil surmisings among the people. My spirit 
 mourns over some who are busy in this work, and who, in 
 destroying the reputation of others, must wound their own 
 peace. 
 
 On third-day the 19th, had a good and large meeting at 
 Fishing Creek. Truth reigned among us, to the strength and 
 encouragement of many minds. After the public meeting 
 closed, Friends were invited to remain together to confer on 
 the state of society, within the limits of Muncy monthly meet- 
 ing, several Friends from that and Pine Grove being present. 
 The subject was opened by Samuel Comfort in a clear and 
 very feeling manner, evidently accompanied by the over- 
 shadowing power of Divine Truth and love. It was one of 
 the most baptizing melting seasons I have known on similar 
 occasions. The timid, languid, and discouraged state of 
 Friends seemed raised into new life, and at length way 
 opened to harmonize, in endeavours to sustain the monthly 
 meeting in the ancient order of the Truth, as established by 
 our faithful predecessors. A clerk was named, and it was 
 agreed to make application to Friends of Philadelphia quarter, 
 to receive this monthly meeting as one of its constituent 
 branches, for which purpose a committee was appointed. The 
 Friends of Pine Grove were encouraged to continue their 
 
Chap. XV.] JOURNAL OF .JOHN COMLY. 471 
 
 meetings for Tvorsliip, and Friends named to visit them. Great 
 care was felt to give no occasion of offence to the orthodox 
 by interfering with them, and the meeting adjourned to meet 
 on another day, so as to avoid collision with them. Much 
 tenderness one toward another was manifested, and divers 
 Friends, who at first seemed unprepared for such a movement, 
 closed in Avith the concerns and business of the meeting, and 
 expressed their great satisfaction with the proceedings and 
 conclusions of this memorable meeting. Under feelings of 
 gratitude and love. Friends parted in much nearness of affec- 
 tion ; many expressing their different feelings from what had 
 been usual with them when leaving the confusions and trials 
 of their former monthly meetings. And although this meet- 
 ing held more than five hours, impatience or weariness was 
 not apparent. As to myself, bodily fatigue was felt and some 
 headache, but near the close my soul was contrited in humble 
 adoration of that power whose arm was made bare for the 
 deliverance of his tried children. Under these feelings the 
 spirit of supplication was poured out upon me, and my breath- 
 ings were fervently offered up in secret to Him who sees in 
 secret, for the help, preservation, and support of his children — 
 his humble dedicated people who love his law. Had I 
 been accustomed to vocal appearances in public meetings, 
 the flowings of my heart might have been uttered. But the 
 awfulness of public vocal addresses to the throne of grace is 
 so deeply impressed on my mind, and the apprehension that 
 too many fall into the habit of these vocal addresses, when 
 prayer in secret would be more beneficial to themselves and 
 the meeting, that a holy care to "keep the foot" from step- 
 ping into this solemn act unbidden was productive of peace, 
 and the sacrifice of thanksgiving, prayer, and praise was offered 
 in secret, solemn, reverential silence, under which the meet- 
 ing adjourned. 
 
 20th of tenth month. — The covering of solemnity and silent 
 travail clothed my mind this morning. I reviewed the labours 
 we had passed through in this part of the harvest field of 
 ingathering. I beheld with admiration the goodness and 
 lovingkindness of the great Husbandman, in pointing out our 
 portion of exercise and labour, and in furnishing us with 
 
472 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1830. 
 
 wisdom and strength for his service. I reviewed these labours, 
 and felt the Sowings of peace as a pure stream. Mj heart 
 was filled with love to the whole family of mankind, and par- 
 ticularly toward the few tribulated brethren and sisters, among 
 whom we have travailed in spirit for their enlargement and 
 deliverance. I felt the breathings of desire for their preserva- 
 tion, their growth in the ever blessed Truth, their establish- 
 ment on the immovable rock, and the increase of love, of 
 unity, and of a godly zeal among them. I saw their exposed 
 situation, their weakness was obvious to my view, and I antici- 
 pated some of the close trials and provings that await them. 
 Under such impressions, silence and awfulness clothed my 
 mind. I could take no part in cheerful converse ; and when 
 we were ready to part with our dear Friends, I found myself 
 too full of these tender sensibilities to utter a word, even the 
 customary parting salutation of farewell. The pressure of the 
 hand bespoke in silent language the feelings of the heart, with 
 more eloquence than a multitude of professions in words. 
 
 This covering of inward quiet and solemnity stayed my 
 mind during our ride through the rain to Catawissa; where 
 we called and dined with our kind friend B. S. A message 
 was delivered by him from two persons, descendants of 
 Friends but not now in membership, residing in the town, 
 proposing a meeting with the inhabitants. On feeling after 
 the subject, a little light arose thereon, and I submitted to 
 have the meeting appointed at six o'clock in the evening; 
 which was attended by a considerable number, the travelling 
 being wet and muddy, and the evening dark. Great atten- 
 tion and solemnity were apparent. The meeting held till 
 about nine o'clock ; and from the profound stillness that 
 reigned during my communication, and after I sat down, as 
 well as the evidence attending my mind, I felt satisfied and 
 peaceful in having attended to this little opening of Divine 
 love. While deep solemnity covered the meeting near its 
 close, the address of the poet arose before my view as appli- 
 cable to the feelings of some minds present, and under solemn 
 weight, these lines were vocally uttered : — 
 
 " Thou art the source and centre of all minds, 
 Their only point of rest, Eternal Word ! 
 
Chap. XV.] JOUKNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 473 
 
 From thee departing we are lost, and rove 
 At random — without honour, hope, or peace. 
 From thee is all that soothes the life of man, 
 His high endeavour and his glad success ; 
 His strength to suffer, and his will to serve. 
 But oh ! thou bounteous Giver of all good, 
 Thou art of all thy gifts thyself the crown — 
 Give what thou wilt, without thee we are poor ; 
 And with thee rich — take what thou wilt away!" 
 
 Under feelings in full accordance with these views, as em- 
 bracing much of the exercise and labours of the meeting, the 
 solemnity was such, that when the usual signal was given for 
 closing the opportunity, none seemed ready or in haste to rise. 
 May the blessing of Heaven rest on the seed of life that was 
 reached and visited in the minds of the people. 
 
 21st. This morning we took our leave of B. S. and family, 
 and pursued our journey homeward over those stupendous 
 piles of matter called mountains, which strike the mind of 
 the unpracticed beholder with wonder, admiration, and awe. 
 Arrived in safety at Potts ville near evening. My mind much 
 inclined to silence and meditation during this day, and quie- 
 tude and peace attended. 
 
 It might be diflBcult for me to assign an adequate reason for 
 the gloomy feelings that cover my mind in this busy place. I 
 think I can feel pleased with the improvements of honest in- 
 dustry; I can delight in seeing the wilderness become a fruit- 
 ful field, and the industry of man crowned with success in 
 the various operations that conduce to the welfare of the hu- 
 man family. But it seems to me that there is, in this place, 
 too much of an eagerness or making haste to be rich ; and 
 that this dark spirit, that is greedy of gain, bears too much 
 sway among the people. The consequences, I fear, will be se- 
 rious to many ; and this apprehension may produce a pensive 
 foreboding of the sufferings, both of body and mind, that may 
 fall upon the innocent. But I can also rejoice in some evi- 
 dence vouchsafed, that a tender, watchful Providence regards 
 the state of his children in every varied condition and situa- 
 tion, and graciously adapts his goodness and his grace to the 
 wants and circumstances of his creatures. 
 
 Some instances are found here of worthy acts of benevo- 
 
474 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1830. 
 
 lence, and a concern for the welfare of others ; so that all are 
 not selfish and seeking their own exclusively. 
 
 22d. Left Pottsville and pursued our journey homeward. 
 To me the ride was as yesterday, pensive, silent, and profit- 
 ably thoughtful. 
 
 While at Pine Grove I had opportunity of seeing a num- 
 ber of Germans, who are remarkably plain, and of innocent 
 countenance, exceeding most people that a traveller meets 
 with ; the men wear their beards, appear very clean though 
 simple in their dress, and look as though they knew no deceit 
 nor pride ; the females also have a modest sweetness and in- 
 nocence impressed on their countenances, that indicate the 
 goodness of their hearts. A funeral occurred among them 
 the day of our arrival in that neighbourhood, and was said to 
 be remarkably solemn and interesting. The deceased had 
 been a very exemplary, kind, active, benevolent man. His 
 death was felt to be a great loss among them, and to the 
 neighbourhood generally. After the corpse was let down into 
 the grave in a plain coffin, his brother knelt at the foot of the 
 grave, and offered up what appeared to be a very solemn and 
 devout prayer in the German language. All the company 
 seemed to feel very deeply on the occasion. Such the report 
 of some Friends who were present ; and to my mind the ac- 
 count was very interesting, and I could feel the unity of the 
 one blessed Spirit of Truth, and own the faithful among them 
 as brethren. Oh, how precious is this cement of souls ! Among 
 all nations, kindreds, tongues and people the same. 
 
 This evening reached our kind, hospitable friends, the 
 widow Lightfoot and daughters ; and early next morning set 
 out and travelled upward of fifty miles to Merion ; where, next 
 morning, my mind felt much inclined to stay to meeting, to 
 which my companions gave up, though anxious to press on to- 
 ward home, and a precious season it w^as — which I hope may 
 not be, to some at least, as a morning cloud or early dew. 
 Rode to my home that evening, and thankfully found all well. 
 In this journey, travelled about three hundred and seventy 
 miles and attended ten meetings ; and gratefully acknowledge 
 Divine help, wisdom, and care. 
 
 Twelfth month 5th. — Again left home to join the Yearly 
 
Chap. XV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 475 
 
 Meeting's committee in visiting the monthly meeting in 
 Bucks quarter. Went on to John Watson's at Middletown, 
 where I stayed the night, and had much conversation with 
 him on subjects relative to the affairs and state of our re- 
 ligious society. Renewedly saw the need of Friends re- 
 curring to the substance, the life, that all our rules, regu- 
 lations, order, and discipline may be grounded therein, more 
 than in the formality of the letter. If the inside be clean, 
 the outside will be regulated accordingly. 
 
 On second-day, the 6th, went on, facing a severe snow-storm, 
 to Buckingham monthly meeting, in company with Edward 
 Hicks, where we met others of the committee. 
 
 8th. At Wrightstown monthly meeting. Sat in silence 
 of a painful kind during most of the time they were transact- 
 ing their business. There was, however, an alarm sounded 
 and a tender sympathy experienced toward some present. 
 
 After meeting, although stormy, I rode home, in order to 
 be at our meeting on the morrow, where my son was to be 
 married. This took place accordingly on the 9th of twelfth 
 month, and it was a precious meeting, and large, considering 
 the unpleasant weather. Solemnity prevailed, and dear M. P. 
 ministered to us, as also a testimony from myself. The young 
 people conducted commendably, and the list of my obligations 
 for gratitude and love to the Supreme was multiplied. May 
 the God before whom my fathers Abraham and Isaac did walk, 
 the God who has led me and fed me all my life unto this day, 
 and the angel of his presence who has delivered me from evil, 
 bless the children. 
 
 First month 19th and 20th, 1831. — Attended the monthly 
 meetings of Friends in Philadelphia. Had some labour among 
 them, tending to stir up the pure mind to an increase of 
 brotherly care and private labour for the restoration of right 
 order and discipline in the church. 
 
 28th. Went to the city, and was engaged in attending to 
 the publication of Job Scott's works, now about to be finished 
 ready for delivery to subscribers. Felt some secret satisfac- 
 tion in the prosecution and accomplishment of this labour for 
 promoting the objects of that deeply devoted servant of God, 
 
476 JOURNAL OF JOHX COMLY. [1831. 
 
 and feel thankful for Divine assistance in thus far blessing 
 and prospering the Avork in my hands. 
 
 29th. Crossed the river on the ice, and went to John 
 Tatum's at Woodbury; kindly received and entertained by 
 himself and wife. Next day attended "Woodbury meeting, 
 and on second-day 31st, attended the preparative meeting of 
 ministers and elders there, and the monthly meeting imme- 
 diately following. Both of which were comfortable refresh- 
 ing seasons, and much openness for labour among them. My 
 testimony in the public part of the meeting, was on the fulfil- 
 ment of the ancient prophecies, — that it should come to pass 
 in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord's house should 
 be established on the top of the mountain and exalted above 
 the hills, and all should flow unto it, &c. ; and that in this 
 exalted state he would pour out his spirit upon all flesh, &c. — 
 now to be fulfilled in individuals as the fulness of attainment 
 in the pure gospel spirit: not in the outward relation, but 
 as to state and growth in the Truth. To attain this blessed 
 enjoyment, the word of encouragement to faithfulness was 
 administered under the quickening influence of gospel love. 
 
 During meeting time it began to snow, and continued till 
 night ; but we set out for Pilesgrove through it, having for 
 our company several of the committee and others. As night 
 came on, and the tracks and roads were filled with snow, we 
 found much difiiculty in getting along, and at length lost the 
 road, so that we had to get a young man on horseback to lead 
 the way, by which, although it stormed very hard with wind, 
 hail, snow, and rain, we arrived in safety at Thomas Davis's 
 at Woodstown, where we were kindly welcomed and enter- 
 tained. 
 
 Next day, first of second month, attended Pilesgrove select 
 preparative, and afterward the monthly meeting, which were 
 favoured satisfactory seasons. Went on to Salem in the after- 
 noon, and lodged at Joseph Bassett's. Next day, attended 
 Salem select preparative and monthly meetings, in both which 
 a precious remnant are preserved alive in the Truth. The 
 public meeting was pretty largely attended by the towns- 
 people, and was a favoured season. 
 
 Two young men, William Griscom and C. Bacon, who had 
 
Chap. XY.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 477 
 
 come over from Greenwich to attend this meeting, accom- 
 panied us to the house of the former, near Greenwich meeting- 
 house, where next day we attended select preparative and 
 monthly meetings. Notice had been spread of strangers being 
 there, and the meeting was large. Many Presbyterians and 
 others were present, to whom the doctrines of the gospel were 
 freely declared in the demonstration of the Spirit, and much 
 solemnity and quiet prevailed over the meeting. I could but 
 contrast the state of Friends here at this time, with the un- 
 settled tried state in which I found them about three years 
 ago. Then all seemed anxiety, care, alarm, and unsettlement, 
 now peaceful, united, settled, and comfortable to themselves. 
 The storm continuing with increasing violence we kept house ; 
 and it was a rainy afternoon, but in the night cleared up cold. 
 
 Second month 4th. — Set out for Maurice River, the weather 
 very cold, and travelling frequently difficult ; but we got along 
 safely, and reached Isaac Townsend's in the afternoon, where 
 ■we were cordially welcomed. In the evening had a season of 
 retirement together, in which dear John Tatum expressed the 
 satisfaction it gave him to have the company of the dear 
 young friends, to which my heart responded ; and I felt and 
 expressed the same acknowledgment to extend to other Friends 
 who had been with us and assisted us in getting along, with a 
 word of encouragement to all our companions. It was a 
 refreshing season, and not the only opportunity of the kind 
 ■which w^e had together. These seasons are precious when 
 they come without toil. 
 
 On seventh-day, the 5th, attended select preparative meeting 
 at nine o'clock ; and although the weather was piercing cold, 
 dear old Jonathan Jones, now upward of eighty, got out and sat 
 through this and monthly meeting following, which was long. 
 Nathan Baner, from Cape May, was there acceptably. He 
 and his family are nearly all the Friends left to keep up that 
 meeting, and yet no meeting has been dropped there for want 
 of attendance, though he has frequently sat alone. 
 
 We stayed first-day meeting at Maurice River, and tarried 
 there visiting some families in the afternoon. On second-day 
 came on to Woodbury ; and next day reached the quarterly 
 meeting at Cherry street, the public part of which was pain- 
 
478 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1831. 
 
 ful to me by reason of the want of silence. No interval 
 
 between the communications. Oh ! for a living silence, that 
 the people may renew their strength. 
 
 Second month 24th. — Attended quarterly meeting at 
 Wrightstown ; had a cold, fatiguing ride to reach it, but 
 arrived seasonably. A large collection of people ; and before 
 the meeting had fully gathered and settled, a young man arose 
 and spoke a few sentences. He was soon followed by another, 
 and thus, in rapid succession, there were seven vocal appear- 
 ances. To the perceptions and feelings of some minds, a 
 solemn silence would have been more acceptable than all these 
 communications. Very little interval of ingathering, solemn 
 quiet appeared, and I mourned over the state of this meeting 
 in relation to what is called ministry. Judges and counsel- 
 lors, if I mistake not, are wanting among the people. 
 
 Ah ! how Friends love to live at ease ; and then, because 
 things are not as they ought to be, charges are made against 
 the discipline, and the answering of the queries is complained 
 of as a dry, flat, and formal thing. Oh ! that all might be in 
 earnest to sink down to the gift in themselves, and hearken and 
 hear what the Spirit of Truth dictates to them. Much labour 
 at home and in the society is wanting, ere Zion will arise and 
 shine as a city set on a hill, and the nations be drawn to her 
 light and kings to the brightness of her rising. 
 
 Meeting held late ; after which returned home with a satis- 
 faction in the review of my labours to advance the cause of 
 Truth, and promote the welfare of my fellow-members. 
 
 Fourth month 9th, 1831. — Our Yearly Meeting of ministers 
 and elders convened ; and during the two sittings that day, as 
 the state of this part of the society, in relation to the subjects 
 contained in the queries, was brought into view and received 
 deliberate consideration, some lively exercise prevailed, and 
 divers communications thereof were made. Toward the close 
 a living concern arose in my mind that these exercises might 
 not be as a passing cloud ; they appeared worthy of preserva- 
 
Chap. XV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 479 
 
 tion beyond tlio treasures of mere remembrance, which is soon 
 obliterated by otlier scenes of business and care Avhen sepa- 
 rated far asunder. The proposal was united with by some, 
 though others were disposed to pass it by ; and the meeting 
 adjourned to eight o'clock fourth-day morning. 
 
 The General Yearly Meeting commenced on second-day, the 
 6th, having the company of George Hatton and Hugh Judge 
 from the western country, Eleazer Haviland, Simeon Brownal, 
 and John and Phoebe I. Merritt from New York Y'^early 
 Meeting. It was opened with feelings of mutual love and 
 good-will, and the business was conducted with order and 
 harmony, excepting when the proposition for a change of dis- 
 cipline was introduced, contemplating a small alteration in 
 the mode of introducing proposals of marriage into monthly 
 meetings — simply by writing instead of verbally — when I 
 discovered with sorrow that the state of society was too brittle 
 to adhere in the living unity so as to move forward. A timidity 
 and jealousy were manifest that showed the weakness of the 
 body ; and although the subject was referred to a committee, 
 it could not go forward in unity and harmony, so was continued 
 to be further considered next year. 
 
 On fourth-day morning the meeting of ministers and elders 
 again met, and under the influence of Divine good many 
 exercises on various subjects connected with the state and the 
 duties of this part of society, were opened and feelingly im- 
 pressed on our minds by concerned brethren and sisters. 
 Under the precious solemn covering mercifully vouchsafed, 
 the concern again livingly arose in my mind, to propose that 
 these subjects of exercise and concern should be put on paper 
 and transmitted to the smaller meetings, as a help to stir up 
 the pure mind by way of remembrance. This concern being 
 entered into, a committee was appointed to draw up an essay 
 as proposed, and at the meeting on seventh-day it was pro- 
 duced, and after being somewhat abridged by the clerk, was 
 pretty generally united with and adopted.* 
 
 The general Yearly Meeting closed on sixth-day evening. 
 
 * See Appendix for this Epistle, which was written by J. Comly. 
 
480 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1831. 
 
 Fifth montli 2d and 3d. — Attended Philadelphia quarterly 
 meeting. Silent travail and secret intercession appeared my 
 safe allotment. " Keep silence before me, islands, and let 
 the people renew their strength," sounded in the ear of my 
 soul, and as one of those islands I observed it to my peace. 
 A little firm ground, though surrounded by fluctuation, storm, 
 and agitation, as troubled waters to an island, may yet be 
 still. Silence is profitable to the renewal of strength ; and 
 this renewal the people need. Oh ! for a living silence. In 
 quietness and in confidence shall be their strength. But 
 while the inhabitants of the islands are continually crying 
 unto their fellows, the tumult of the wars continues, unsettle- 
 ment prevails. "Keep silence before me," is the command 
 of Him who is the strength of his people, and their refuge in 
 the day of trouble. 
 
 During the business of the quarter, my mind was opened 
 to call their attention to the excellence, the goodness, and 
 pleasantness of dwelling together as brethren in unity ; and 
 that the unity so precious was sustained by the one spirit of 
 pure love, which was of that character represented by Jesus : 
 " Greater love hath no man than this, that he lay down his 
 life for his friend" — a strong expression for what we usually 
 denominate submission and condescension one to another. 
 By this the harmony is preserved; and it is a death to or 
 laying down of om' own wills; whether we may apprehend 
 ourselves positively right or not, submission and condescen- 
 sion become us. For the servant of the Lord must not strive, 
 but be temperate in all things. 
 
 Fifth month 9th. — Set out alone for Shrewsbury. 
 
 10th. Accompanied by Samuel Comfort, rode to Shrews- 
 
Chap. XV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 481 
 
 bury ; and next day attended select quarterly meeting there. 
 Hugh Judge was also there — his first visit — now in his 
 eightieth year. He is green and lively in old age, and had 
 much pertinent service in the quarterly meeting and the pub- 
 lic meeting on sixth-day. Indeed, most of the labour by 
 way of preaching seemed to fall on him ; and it was found 
 and felt that the prophets are subject to the spirits of the 
 prophets. 
 
 Formerly a Yearly Meeting was held at Shrewsbury, which 
 I found on inquiry to have been at the time of the quarterly 
 meeting, and that it held three days — the last as' a general 
 public meeting for others as well as Friends. Great multi- 
 tudes flocked to this Yearly Meeting. Many ministering 
 Friends from distant parts attended it. It became, in course 
 of time, a scene of painful disorder among the youth and 
 others, who came more out of curiosity, and for some amuse- 
 ment, than edification and instruction ; and at length the evil 
 so far overbalanced the good, that the Yearly Meeting was 
 discontinued. 
 
 The general quarterly meeting, on fifth-day, was attended 
 by about sixty of each sex. Some of them had come forty, 
 fifty, and up to more than eighty miles, requiring a full week's 
 absence from their business and families ; so that many are 
 deprived of the benefits of attending meetings of this kind, 
 and should claim the sympathy and tender regard of such as 
 live at ease, and enjoy the fulness of good things, or the pri- 
 vilege of meeting together almost at their own doors. 
 
 Very few public ministers of the word belong to this quar- 
 ter, and such as do seldom go much from home. A large 
 population of intelligent people are situated among and 
 around them, and many of these love the principles of 
 Friends, and manifest an interest in attending meetings ap- 
 pointed among them. But as Friends' usual stated meetings 
 are small, and mostly held in silence in many places, and 
 many of these goodly neighbours have an eye and an ear 
 outward for words and preaching — there is little in their esti- 
 mation to attract them to frequent Friends' meetings. Yet, 
 when any ministering Friend, travelling in Truth's service, 
 appoints meetings among them, they are gratified and satisfied 
 31 
 
482 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1831. 
 
 ■with hearing what they call good preaching. But there it 
 seems to end ; and in that state they remain, with very little 
 fruits of advancement or growth in the Truth. 
 
 "While contemplating this state of society and of mankind, 
 it livingly rose in my view that if elders and rightly-exercised 
 Friends, who are not called to the ministry of the word in vo- 
 cal communication, were faithful to the gifts committed to 
 them, there might be right concerns and openings to appoint 
 silent meetings among these goodly people, or meetings for 
 silent worship, in which no expectations would be raised of 
 hearing preaching. And an encouraging view was presented 
 that such silent, solemn meetings might be more productive 
 of real, solid convincement, and acquaintance with the vital 
 principle of Truth and its internal operations, than appears 
 to be the eifect of preaching, though under a degree of right 
 qualification. The people need to learn holy stillness, and a 
 ceasing from all self-activity both in speaking and in hearing. 
 
 Oh ! when will such a state of society be known, in which 
 the gifts and talents of all the living members will be pro- 
 perly occupied for the edification of the body, for the gather- 
 ing of the children and other sheep of Christ into the fold 
 of silent waiting, and feeding on the bread of life beside the 
 still waters. 
 
 Seventh month 3d, 1831. — Attended Horsham meeting. It 
 was larger than I anticipated, and Divine Goodness was near, 
 favouring with some public labours to stir up the pure mind to 
 diligence in doing our day's work in the daytime. While 
 there are children in the Truth, there will be in mercy dis- 
 pensed to their state a mode of instruction adapted to their 
 growth and attainment in the knowledge and obedience of 
 Divine Truth. Gospel ministry is among these blessed means, 
 as showers to water the precious plants of the heavenly Fa- 
 ther's own right-hand planting. Every good principle is one 
 of the seeds of the kingdom, sown by the good Husbandman. 
 As the mind receives it in honesty, and adopts it in sincerity as 
 a rule of conduct, it brings forth fruit after its kind. Thus, 
 
Chap. XV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 483 
 
 the seed or principle of honesty brings forth fruits of up- 
 rightness, integrity, sincerity. The seed of love produces 
 fruits of affection, of kindness, of tenderness, and good-will 
 to all. The seed of truth springs up and eradicates all false- 
 hood, evasion, fraud, ambiguity, and guile ; instead thereof, 
 it produces plain language, yea and nay, in simplicity, open- 
 ness, candour, and truth. The wheat and the tares are thus 
 discovered clearly, and are to be separated ; the former 
 gathered into the heavenly storehouse of the mind, the latter 
 severed from among them, and consumed by the fire of the 
 Divine word. 
 
 20th. Attended at the house where a company gathered 
 on account of the funeral of John Scott, in Bensalem. He 
 had been a very afflicted youth from his childhood ; endured 
 much pain and many grievous sores for about twenty years 
 of his life. Many pieces of bone had been taken out of his 
 head and limbs; and, like Lazarus, he was "full of sores." 
 When I last saw him he appeared content and tranquil ; and 
 these "afflictions" light, compared with "a wounded spirit," 
 I trust have worked for him a state of mind in which he was 
 prepared to receive a " far more exceeding and eternal weight 
 of glory." 
 
 The evening before his death, retaining his faculties to the 
 last, he requested that I should be invited to attend his 
 funeral. On receiving the message and considering it, I felt 
 easy to go, hoping I might be instructed thereby ; and so it 
 proved. But I now think his concern was mainly on account 
 of his relatives and neighbours; that his death and funeral 
 might be made the means of good to them. I hope Heaven 
 has so far answered his desires. It was a solemn time. Doc- 
 trine and counsel flowed freely and feelingly to a quiet, atten- 
 tive, though not large company of people, in a neighbourhood 
 of much rawness and apparent unconcern about things of 
 eternal consequence. But the Lord knoweth them that are 
 his, and some of these may be much hid in obscurity. May 
 he hold them in his holy hand. 
 
 In the afternoon another messenger called to invite to the 
 burial of Ann Wilson, wife of Hampton, near Yardleyville, 
 in Bucks county. 
 
484 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1832. 
 
 While prosecuting the concern of the Yearly Meeting's com- 
 mittee, having in prospect a visit to the monthly meetings in 
 Shrewsbury and Rahway quarter, I obtained a minute of my 
 monthly meeting, giving liberty to appoint some meetings 
 within that quarter and at some other places. About the be- 
 ginning of twelfth month, 1831, I attended Horsham meeting 
 on first-day morning, and in the afternoon had a very satisfac- 
 tory meeting at William Michener's, an aged Friend, who is 
 much confined to his house, yet has a love for Friends, and 
 had made request that some Friend should hold such a meet- 
 ing at his house. After which, in a severe snow storm, rode 
 to Isaac Parry's and lodged. Next day attended Buckingham 
 monthly meeting, and on third-day that at Solebury. Here it 
 was suggested to Friends to consider the propriety and utility 
 of being again united with Buckingham in holding one monthly 
 meeting. But changes of this kind, however profitable they 
 might be at this day for the welfare of society and the honour 
 of Truth, have to contend with habits of ease and convenience, 
 which must be surmounted before the great objects of the ge- 
 neral good can be impartially weighed. Isaac Parry had good 
 service in this meeting, and next day we attended Wrights- 
 town monthly meeting. It was a low time. The Spirit of 
 Christian discipline appears to be much wanting both here and 
 at two other of the monthly meetings in this quarter. Next 
 day I w^cnt alone to Newtown. This monthly meeting was more 
 lively, and some service for Truth was performed to satisfac- 
 tion ; thence to Middletown and the Falls, and so home. 
 
 During the severe cold weather of this long winter, although 
 the concern still lived in my mind, yet no way opened to at- 
 tend to it, nor could I feel easy to return the minute. 
 
 Among other concerns not noted, I may mention a visit to 
 Maiden Creek monthly meeting in the first month. None of 
 the Yearly Meeting's committee on the appointment seemed 
 disposed to accompany, so taking my son Emmor with me, I 
 set out on first-day afternoon, the 22d of first month, 1832. 
 Lodged at Jacob Paxson's at Abington, which furnished an 
 opportunity of spending a little time with this aged Friend. 
 
Chap. XV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 485 
 
 Next day readied John Jacob's, at Providence, and the day 
 following arrived at the widow Lightfoot's, at Maiden Creek. 
 On fourth-day had a very satisfactory opportunity in sitting 
 with the few Friends of that monthly meeting, and felt my 
 heart glow with love and Christian sympathy toward them. 
 The weather now became very cold, and intensely so on the 
 two following days, but we came on home without much suffer- 
 ing. My mind enjoyed a peaceful calm consequent on this 
 little visit. 
 
 In the sixth month, 1832, although no companion offered, I 
 found a little opening to set out on a visit to the upper part of 
 New Jersey, in fulfilment of the prospect contained in the mi- 
 nute so long retained. On third-day, the 19th, I left home 
 alone, and went on to Newtown, and Joseph Briggs of that 
 place concluded to accompany me, and we reached Watson 
 Pell's, at Solebury, that evening. Next day set forward, and 
 called at Elizabeth Clifton's, at Kingwood. But as no way 
 opened to call a meeting here, we went on thirty-five miles 
 further to James Wilson's, at Hardwick. On fifth-day after- 
 noon, at three o'clock, had a meeting at Johnsonsburg, other- 
 wise called Log Jail, from the circumstance of there having 
 been formerly a building of that kind, and devoted to that pur- 
 pose ; the courts being also held there. A considerable num- 
 ber of people attended, and appeared to be well satisfied. 
 Next day had a pretty large and solemn meeting at Friends' 
 tneeting-house at Hardwick. This was formerly a large meet- 
 ing of Friends, but is now reduced to a very few. Many have 
 removed to new countries, others have gone out in mai-riage 
 and left the society, and what remain seem much discouraged. 
 They are scattered over a large extent of country, some of them 
 near twenty miles from meeting. Of course these remote 
 members seldom attend. Formerly, say about the year 1797, 
 there was an indulged meeting held at Paulin's Kill, and an- 
 other at a place called the Drowned Lands, on first-days. These 
 meetings, though small, were kept up for several years in a 
 respectable manner, and no doubt to the benefit of the people. 
 About this period there were at Hardwick divers valuable mi- 
 
486 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1832. 
 
 nisteriug Friends, as Gabriel Wilson, Sarah Luncly, and others. 
 A number of members had emigrated from this neighbourhood, 
 and settled near Niagara, but were still members of Hardwick, 
 because no meetings for discipline were yet set up in that 
 country. Gabriel Wilson, then called an ancient Friend, was 
 set at liberty to visit them, as also Friends in the back parts of 
 Pennsylvania, that is, about Catawissa and Muncy. 
 
 A circumstance is left on record respecting a concern opened 
 by Sarah Lundy to visit some meetings in Europe. After de- 
 liberate consideration, it was concluded that "she be released 
 from her burden, and the concern to rest on the meeting, to 
 be revived from time to time as Truth may direct." About 
 five months afterward her concern was united with, and a cer- 
 tificate prepared for the purpose. But it is probable that it 
 was stopped either in the quarterly or Yearly Meeting ; for 
 a few months afterward she opened a concern to visit the 
 meetings in the lower parts of Jersey, and some in Pennsyl- 
 vania. 
 
 In those days Friends appear to have had a testimony against 
 the use of distilled spirituous liquors. Only one member was 
 reported as a retailer, and some few used it in time of hay and 
 harvest ; but one Friend in the practice of having cider dis- 
 tilled for his own use. 
 
 It is a mark of brotherly kindness and Christian sympathy, 
 worthy of the character of genuine Friends, that in former 
 days they united in having meetings held at the houses of the 
 aged and infirm, and those who lived remote from their place 
 of meeting. Thus we find a minute recorded in this land as 
 follows: In the sixth month, 1798, " Mary Wilson, being far 
 stricken in years, and unable to attend meetings, requests that 
 a meeting be held at the house where she lives, which was 
 united with for one month, on first-day afternoons, at four 
 o'clock." 
 
 How few instances of latter years occur wherein elders 
 obtain minutes of concurrence to travel and visit meetings 
 for discipline. Is it because elders do not feel such concerns, 
 or because they do not consider the approbation of their 
 Friends to be needful? It is, nevertheless, a satisfaction to 
 find among the records of Hardwick monthly meeting, that a 
 
CHiP. XV.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 487 
 
 minute was granted Jacob Lundy, an elder, to attend a few 
 meetings for discipline in the remote parts of Pennsylvania, 
 and four or five years after, another to attend Redstone quar- 
 ter, and the monthly meetings composing it. 
 
 From what cause we are not informed, but the indulged 
 meetings at Paulin's Kill and the Drowned Lands were dis- 
 continued, the latter in the fourth month, 1801, and the former 
 in the fifth month, 1803. There yet remain a few solitary 
 members in those neighbourhoods, and of latter years Edward 
 D. Warbasse has come forth and joined Friends ; he has also 
 a brother and sister who are very friendly disposed, though not 
 members. Toward these and the few remaininjc about the 
 neighbourhood of these places, I felt a draft of love, and a 
 messenger was sent to have a meeting appointed among them. 
 To attend which, with Samuel Laing for our guide, we set out 
 on sixth-day afternoon, the22d, and reached Joseph Schooley's 
 in the evening. We now found the meeting was appointed to 
 be held in Sussex court-house, in the village of Newton. It 
 was quite a disappointment to me, for I had requested it to be 
 in the neighbourhood of Edward Warbasse, four miles farther 
 northward. However, no way appeared but to make the best 
 of it. It was held on seventh-day morning, at ten o'clock, 
 and was a much more satisfactory meeting than I had antici- 
 pated; but the people of the town showed their rawness not only 
 by being long in gathering, but immediately on closing my 
 communication a considerable number left the house. It is 
 said the first Friends' meeting held in the town was by Emmor 
 Kimber, probably in 1813 ; the next by Ruth Spencer last 
 winter, and this the third. I hope Truth gained some ground. 
 We dined with a very friendly woman named Ryerson, in the 
 town. Then, accompanied by Edward D. Warbasse and his 
 sister Mary Ann, we rode about twenty miles to Randolph, 
 where next day we attended their meeting to satisfaction. 
 Notice having been spread, a number of neighbours attended, 
 whose deportment was solid and exemplary. 
 
 After meeting on first-day, at Randolph, a proposal was 
 made to hold a meeting at a village called Dover, about a mile 
 off. But on feeling after it, no authority was felt to appoint 
 one ; so we went on to see old Joshua Mott, an elder, who 
 
488 JOUKNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1832. 
 
 ■vvitli his wife are very infirm, so as not to get out to meetings. 
 He appeared pleased and enlivened by our visit ; and next 
 morning we set out for Plainfield, passing through Morristown 
 and Turkey ; arrived at Jediah Shotwell's in the afternoon. 
 Next day, had a very solemn, and favoured meeting at Plain- 
 field meeting-house, wherein Truth rose into dominion, baptizing 
 some minds into deep feeling of its living, quickening virtue. 
 
 In the evening, had a meeting at a village called New 
 Market, or Quibble-town, among Baptists, Presbyterians, &c. 
 It is probable there had never been a Friends' meeting there 
 before. It is situated about five miles westward of Plainfield. 
 The people were solid and attentive, and the opportunity end- 
 ed well as to spiritual things ; but it being late, and warm, 
 my bodily powers sustained much fatigue. Lodged at Sam- 
 uel Pound's. 
 
 Next morning, the 27th of the sixth month, we set out 
 homeward ; where, through diligent travelling, we arrived and 
 found our families well, except my dear wife, who was so ill 
 as to be attended by a physician. This circumstance, and 
 several others of an unpleasant nature that had recently oc- 
 curred in the neighbourhood, oppressed my spirit, so that in- 
 stead of rejoicing, sackcloth became the covering of my mind 
 for some time.. The suffering of the seed of the kino-dom in 
 the minds of my friends and fellow-creatures, introduces into 
 a fellow-feeling with that which suflFers. " I am for peace !" 
 and, oh ! how does the spirit of contention wound the precious 
 feelings of love and harmony; how does it mar the comfort 
 and heavenward advancement of the human family ! 
 
 The continued illness of our beloved mother, marked by great suf- 
 fering and increased debility, rendered the prospect of her long con- 
 tinuance very doubtful ; yet, from the gradual progress of her disease, 
 the event of her death was not so immediately anticipated, as to pre- 
 vent our father's leaving home to attend the select quarterly meeting 
 at Abington on the 8th of eighth month. He returned in the even- 
 ing, found her sitting up and comfortable ; and the next day he and 
 some others of the family, at her request, also left home to attend 
 the general quarter 3 but during the morning a change took place, 
 
Chap. XV.] MEMOIR OF HIS WIPE. 489 
 
 indicating that the hour of dissolution was near at hand. The absent 
 members of the family were sent for, and in a short time were ga- 
 thered by the bedside of the dear sufferer, whose purified spirit, 
 between ten and eleven o'clock in the evening, was gently released 
 from its earthly tabernacle, and centred, we doubt not, in a state of 
 endless repose and felicity. 
 
 Relative to the particulars of this solemn event and his own expe- 
 rience consequent on this deep-felt loss, our dear father has left no 
 record ; and we can only account for this by the evidence we have, 
 that in most instances through his life, when the tenderest feelings 
 of his nature were awakened to intensity of suffering, his pen was 
 not employed in portraying them. Yet, that his was a heart that 
 keenly felt the privations, the trials, the sadness and loneliness of 
 bereavement, we full well know. 
 
 A most precious tribute to the worth of his estimable companion, 
 is contained in a manuscript volume of Memoirs concerning her, com- 
 piled by himself for the benefit of their children; from which we feel 
 a liberty to subjoin some extracts as exhibiting some of the excellen- 
 cies of her character, and the just appreciation thereof by a tender, 
 affectionate consort. 
 
 Rebecca Budd, third daughter of Stacy and Sarali Budd, 
 was born at Mount Holly, New Jersey, the 11th day of third 
 month, 1773. Her parents were members of the religious 
 Society of Friends, and she had her education principally 
 under their care ; that part of it which related to school-learn- 
 ing was very limited during her minority, being mostly ob- 
 tained under the tuition of a clergyman named Spragg. She 
 was, however, afterward placed with her grandmother, Rebecca 
 Say, wife of Thomas Say in Philadelphia, where she went to 
 school to Sarah Dickinson, an amiable and excellent young 
 woman of fine talents, who married Charles Williams, son of 
 Hezekiah, and died a few years after. How far the company, 
 conversation, and religious care of her grandparents, Thomas 
 and Rebecca Say, Avho were esteemed pious, exemplary 
 Friends, as well as the example and instructions of her pre- 
 ceptress, might have influenced her mind so as to induce con- 
 siderations of a serious and religious character, wc can only 
 
490 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [Chap. XV. 
 
 infer from the affectionate, and honourable remembrance of 
 them which she ever after retained. 
 
 The vivacity of her youthful days appears to have been 
 indulged without much of the restraints of self-denial ; and 
 her fondness for gayety of dress and vocal music, increased 
 with her rising years. She is said to have become a proficient 
 in singing, having what is called a fine voice for that fascinat- 
 ing amusement. This naturally introduced her into company 
 of the gay, vain, and trifling kind, as she advanced in her 
 'teens. But at the same time she was restrained from asso- 
 ciating with those considered low or vulgar, by the frequent 
 and impressive repetition of this maternal precept, equally 
 applicable to all her brothers and sisters : — " Always keep 
 company with those who are better than yourselves, and never 
 associate with such as are your inferiors." This was probably 
 a means, through Divine grace, of inspiring a proper degree 
 of self-respect, and of preserving her from mixing with more 
 unprofitable associates, such as frequently abound in towns 
 and villages. Her health was remarkably good during her 
 juvenile years ; so that she could say, after arriving at mature 
 age, that she enjoyed perfect health, which had ever been her 
 attendant- and that she wished to be sincerely thankful for 
 the favour. 
 
 As she advanced toward the state of womanhood, being 
 inclined to industry and neatness in the use of her needle, 
 she learned the business of making silk bonnets with her cou- 
 sin, Betsy Shinn, of Mount Holly. This employment she 
 pursued for several years ; not, however, so as to be entirely 
 confined at home, for she made frequent visits among her re- 
 latives, friends, and acquaintances. 
 
 In one of those visits she made the following memorandum, 
 which shows the sensibility of her mind to religious impres- 
 sions : — " The 7th of the fourth month, 1796, being on a visit 
 to my friends in Philadelphia, at the house of M. B., those 
 worthy Friends, Deborah Darby and Rebecca Young, (from 
 England,) had a family sitting there, and I thought it a fa- 
 voured season indeed. The two Friends appeared in testi- 
 mony, and particularly addressed several young persons pre- 
 sent. Deborah Darby spoke to me in a very particular 
 
Chap. XV.] MEMOIR OF HIS WIFE. 491 
 
 manner. She told me I had been visited and re-visited by 
 our merciful heavenly Father, but that I had been rather too 
 indifferent, and had not properly attended to the gracious 
 calls of Divine Love. She exhorted and entreated me to 
 give up to serve the Lord with full purpose of heart, and not 
 regard the frowns of the world ; and said much more in a 
 very feeling and impressive manner." 
 
 Among the relatives of Rebecca Budd, was Isaac Collins, 
 extensively known as a printer of the Bible and other works. 
 He had married Rachel Budd, her father's sister ; and they 
 had a large family of children, several of whom were near 
 her own age. Between this family and that of doctor Stacy 
 Budd, there existed a cordial friendship, and an intimate, 
 affectionate intercourse. Of this Rebecca largely partici- 
 pated, notwithstanding the gayety of her dress, and the 
 sprightliness of her disposition. Rachel Collins was an ex- 
 emplary Friend, and an excellent mother to her numerous 
 family of children, training them up in habits of plainness, 
 simplicity, and Christian discipline. Their minds and man- 
 ners were cultivated and improved by a guarded education, 
 and the example and precepts of such a concerned mother. 
 In this family, and with these relatives, while they resided at 
 Trenton in New Jersey, she spent some weeks at a time in 
 social visits ; and she became very much attached to them and 
 they to her, insomuch that she seemed like one of the family. 
 
 On the removal of Isaac Collins and his family from Tren- 
 ton to New York, in the autumn of 1796, Rebecca Budd ac- 
 companied them. This visit to New York continued for more 
 than half a year. It was a season of improvement to her sen- 
 sitive mind, as appears by various memorandums made in her 
 diary. It is most likely that previous to this period of her 
 life, she had for a considerable time been under serious impres- 
 sions, although, as common with humble and diffident minds, 
 she kept her religious exercises concealed, so as not to furnish 
 a knowledge of the state of her mind to others. This inference 
 is drawn from the following incident, which occurred soon after 
 she went to New York ; and it shows evidently that the princi- 
 ple of Divine gi'ace and trutli, Avhich leads into the narrow 
 path of self-denial and simplicity, was operating in her mind 
 
492 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [Chap. XV. 
 
 to draw her off from the gay fashions and customs of the vain 
 world. 
 
 During her younger days, imitating the customs of her 
 associates, and previously to this visit to her uncle Collins in 
 New York, she had, with her needle, worked a camlet dress 
 all over with the imitation of rose leaves, three in a place, and 
 Avith different and various shades of silk. This dress, among 
 others, Avas taken with her wardrobe on this visit, and it would 
 seem that it was not with the intention of wearing it, for it was 
 not long before she privately picked out all those rose leaves, 
 and thus reduced it again to a plain garment. She then washed 
 and ironed the dress, and made it up fit for wearing. 
 
 For this act of undoing what had been done for the sake 
 of gayety and vain show, she was rebuked by her mother, who, 
 when informed of the circumstance, said she might have given 
 the dress to one of her sisters, if she was not free to wear it 
 herself, without taking the trouble to pick out all the flowers. 
 But another principle was now operating in her mind, and she 
 was not willing so to dispose of it. This principle, which she 
 carried out through life, and scrupulously adhered to, was, not 
 to encourage in another what she thought wrong for herself to 
 indulge in. Besides, the dress, when divested of its superflu- 
 ous ornamental work, was capable of real usefulness in its na- 
 tive form, and she thus pursued a principle of economy which 
 was also conspicuous in her after life. 
 
 This visit of six months in New York appears to have been 
 a memorable era of her life. Her uncle's family was frequently 
 visited by many worthy Friends, and travelling ministers, be- 
 sides young company of the first rank in society. Isaac Col- 
 lins, being likewise a printer and bookseller, opportunities of 
 reading Friends' books and other profitable works, were amply 
 furnished for intellectual improvement. Her mind was evi- 
 dently under renewed visitations of Divine Love, and increas- 
 ingly disposed for religious thoughtfulness. As the light of 
 Truth opened her understanding she yielded to its requisitions, 
 so as to make considerable changes in her dress, and in other 
 respects to submit to the cross by conforming her life to its 
 dictates. The very first memorandum in her diary shows her 
 taste for reading at this period. She says, "Feeling indis- 
 
Chap. XV.] MEMOIRS OF HIS WIFE. 493 
 
 posed, I declined going to meeting, but spent the greater part 
 of the day in reading Sarah Grubb's Journal, -vrith which I am 
 very much pleased." This excellent book she continued almost 
 daily to peruse, with increasing interest, until she had read it 
 through, which manifests the religious taste and inclination 
 of her mind, now no longer gratified with songs, novels, and 
 trifling amusements. She became a regular attender of Friends' 
 meetings, and made notes in her diary of the subjects of pub- 
 lic communications in them, as well as in family sittings, par- 
 ticularly when the youth were addressed, and visited minds 
 encouraged to dedication and faithfulness ; from Avhich it may 
 easily be perceived her own state was often thus represented. 
 
 The next work which she read was the Memoirs of Mary 
 Peisly, with which she says she "was pleased and edified." 
 The next that engaged her serious reading was the journal 
 and works of Thomas Chalkley. It should also be noticed 
 that among all her reading, she frequently perused the scrip- 
 tures of Truth. A mutual correspondence with her parents 
 and relations at Mount Holly was maintained during her ab- 
 sence from home. 
 
 The following memorandum taken from her diary appears 
 proper to be retained in this memoir as having reference to 
 the state of her mind. " First-day, third month 26th, fine, clear 
 weather. Attended meeting morning and afternoon, both of 
 which were large. Our friend Hugh Judge was there and ap- 
 peared in public testimony, advising us to endeavour when thus 
 assembled to get into quiet and stillness in our own minds, and 
 strictly attend to the teachings of the Divine monitor within, 
 that in so doing we should find more peace than we had an idea 
 of, and that this had been his experience. He also declared 
 his belief that the Most High was waiting to be gracious to a 
 number who were present, and entreated them to give up — 
 make no reserve — but give up all, take up the daily cross, and 
 follow Christ, for that this was the only way to make our call- 
 ing and election sure. It was an impressive communication, 
 and we had his company to dine with us." 
 
 That her mind was renewedly touched with the tendering 
 visitations of Divine Love, appears evident from the circum- 
 stance that after tea she left the company and retired to 
 
494 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [Chap. XV. 
 
 another apartment, where she "stayed until bed-time, reading 
 the New Testament." 
 
 Among the commonplace occurrences, visits, company, &c. 
 noted in her diary, we find the following : — 
 
 " Fourth month 5th. — I attended monthly meeting, which was 
 large. Peter Lossing appeared in supplication very fervently. 
 Soon after the sliders were closed, S. Lawrence, a young wo- 
 man from Shrewsbury, appeared in testimony very beautifully. 
 Next day we had the company of Peter Lossing to tea. He 
 told us his parents were Dutch people, and that he was edu- 
 cated in the principles and practices of their church until he 
 was between nineteen and twenty years of age. He was then 
 convinced of the principles of Truth as held by the Society of 
 Friends, and after perusing a number of their writings he be- 
 came satisfied that it was right for him to be joined in mem- 
 bership with them. He is now an eminent minister of the 
 gospel. 
 
 "9th. At meeting. Joseph Potts, from Pennsylvania, ap- 
 peared in testimony in an extraordinary manner ; mentioned 
 his concern to visit New York, and that he had felt much exer- 
 cise on our account, even when at home in his own dwelling. In 
 the afternoon meeting he again appeared in an eminent and 
 powerful manner, and manifested much concern for the wel- 
 fare of the people, and the meeting closed with fervent suppli- 
 cation on their behalf. After tea I read in the Bible until 
 ten o'clock, then retired." 
 
 In the latter end of the fourth month, in company with her 
 uncle Collins' family and a number of other Friends, she at- 
 tended the quarterly meeting held at Flushing, on Long 
 Island. At this meeting were Martha Routh, an English 
 Friend, and her companions, Lydia Rotch and Joseph Whitall. 
 The former appeared in testimony in the public meeting very 
 powerfully. 
 
 About the middle of the fifth month her mother went on a 
 visit to New York, and stayed till after the Yearly Meeting. 
 The meeting with her mother was affectionately joyful to her. 
 Of the Yearly Meeting Rebecca Budd kept the following ac- 
 count : — 
 
 "First-day, fifth month 28th, being Yearly Meeting, a great 
 
Chap. XV.] MEMOIR OF HIS WIFE. 495 
 
 number of Friends from a distance attended. We went to the 
 old meeting-house in Liberty street, and had large gatherings 
 both morning and afternoon. Seven Friends appeared in tes- 
 timony in the forenoon, among whom were Mary West and 
 Mary Swett from Jersey, and Peter Lossing who stood a con- 
 siderable time, and such an impressive sermon I never heard 
 before. His language was correct and elegant, and he treated 
 on several interesting subjects in a clear and poAverful manner. 
 In the afternoon Nathan Allen Smith from Philadelphia had 
 much to say. 
 
 " On second-day the Yearly Meeting for business began, and 
 was very large, the house being much crowded. After sitting 
 some time in silence, Martha Routh appeared in supplication. 
 The meeting then proceeded to read the minutes of last year ; 
 then three epistles, from London, Philadelphia, and Rhode 
 Island Yearly Meetings, were read to the satisfaction and ten- 
 dering of many minds, and a committee was appointed to pre- 
 pare answers to them. Chai-ity Cook, of Carolina, Elizabeth 
 Foulke and Ruth Anna Rutter, of Pennsylvania, produced cer- 
 tificates, which were read. Each of these Friends had con- 
 siderable to say to us on hearing the answers to the query 
 which mentioned drowsiness in meetings. This was believed 
 to be the enemy's work, and we Avere told that we never should 
 overcome it without constant striving, fasting, and prayer to 
 God to enable us to guard against that evil. Frequenting 
 places of diversion was also largely spoken to and disapproved. 
 Martha Routh said much against extravagancy of dress, long 
 trails, high caps and bonnets, all which she said were very un- 
 becoming, particularly to those who were making so high a 
 profession of plainness as Friends do. Several others spoke 
 on the same subjects, and on young women's keeping company 
 with those not of our society, (on account of marriage,) and 
 strongly advised against the practice. Meeting adjourned to 
 three o'clock in the afternoon, when more of the queries were 
 read, and weighty remarks were made on the subjects em- 
 braced in them. Good advice was also given to mothers, and 
 also to daughters, on their several duties. 
 
 " On third-day, the remainder of the queries and answers 
 were read, and many lively observations made thereon. A 
 
496 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [Chap. XV. 
 
 minute was made on the subject of the people of colour, and 
 sent into men's meeting ; a report on the boarding-school at 
 Nine Partners was read, and a committee appointed to join 
 men Friends ; the price of board and tuition at the school to 
 be raised, in order to meet expenditures. Martha Routh said 
 she wished those who were engaged in the work encouraged 
 to continue faithful, in the belief that their hands would be 
 strengthened. She said the cause was good, and that she 
 should be glad to report (if favoured to return to her native 
 land) that such a school was in operation among us, preparing 
 the children to come forward in usefulness. A proposal was 
 made that the representatives should hand down in writing to 
 the quarterly, monthly, and preparative meetings, the sub- 
 stance of the various exercises of the meeting ; and it was 
 concluded they should meet and feel after the subject. After 
 a Friend had appeared in supplication, an invitation was given 
 to attend the funeral of Ann Dobson, a valuable, pious, young 
 woman, whose bodily sufferings had been great during sixteen 
 weeks' illness, through which she was patient and resigned, 
 being ready and willing to be released. May we all be pre- 
 pared to follow her. Such was the testimony borne by Mar- 
 tha Routh and others, and the meeting was introduced into 
 great solemnity, to the tendering of many minds. 
 
 "In the afternoon, after a time of silence, business was com- 
 menced, and a committee of young women was appointed to 
 copy the epistles. Advice was given thereon by Martha 
 Routh and Elizabeth Foulke, showing the advantages of giv- 
 ing children sufficient learning to fit them for such services in 
 the church. E. Foulke expressed her belief that a fresh visi- 
 tation had been extended to the dear young women, in order 
 to qualify them for usefulness ; and encouraged those who 
 were willing-hearted to put their hands to the work, as Truth 
 led the way, under a full belief that strength and ability 
 would be given equal to the duties assigned. A favourable 
 report was read from a committee who had visited Friends 
 settled in Canada, and remote places ; and another committee 
 was appointed to attend further to the subject. 
 
 "Foui'tli-day morning, there were public meetings for wor- 
 ship, and several testimonies. Peter Lossing, in an impres- 
 
Chap. XV.] MEMOIR OF HIS WIFE. 497 
 
 sive manner, exhorted the young people to give up, now, in 
 the flower of their age, to serve the Lord, who was waiting to 
 be gracious to his little flock, and was stretching forth his 
 arms to gather them. These he entreated to give up, in obe- 
 dience to the little pointings of religious duty, let them be 
 ever so small ; for in so doing they would find an increase of 
 strength, and be rewarded with peace. 
 
 "Mother and I dined at Henry Haydock's ; and after dinner 
 a Friend from the Eastern country, a stranger, said he had it 
 on his mind to have a religious opportunity with me. So I 
 was called out of the parlour, where was much company, 
 which was rather trying to me, but I went ; and he gave me 
 a great deal of excellent advice, which I hope I shall never 
 forget. We took tea at Uncle Collins's ; after which we had 
 a religious sitting in the parlour, when nineteen persons were 
 present. Martha Allinson, Mary Swett, Richard Mott, and 
 a stranger, all spoke. The heads of the family and the chil- 
 dren were recommended often to collect together and sit in 
 solemn silence, which would be very profitable to them. R. 
 Mott also addressed different states present, in a very pointed 
 manner, especially to some who were advanced in years and 
 in religious experience. He likewise spoke to R. C, S. C, 
 B. C, and myself, desiring us to give up now, in the bloom of 
 life, to serve the Lord ; and said he believed we had many 
 times felt the necessity of such a dedication, and hoped we 
 would strictly attend to the gracious calls of Divine Good- 
 ness ; for that the Lord was near, and waiting to bless us. 
 He also encouraged us to hold on our way ; for he thought 
 we had made some advances in the right path, and that some 
 of our sincere desires were, to do that which is pleasing in 
 the sifjht of the Most High. 
 
 " In fifth-day morning sitting, several Friends had something 
 to communicate, particulaidy to the youth. The clerk then 
 proceeded to read the epistles from London, Philadelphia, 
 and Rhode Island, and the answers to them. 
 
 " Sixth-day, the minutes were read, and some remarks were 
 made on sleeping in meetings, and on indulging a restless dis- 
 position, or going out and in and disturbing the quiet of meet- 
 ings; which were considered quite disorderly practices in the 
 32 
 
498 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [Chap. XV. 
 
 opinion of many. We had a visit from three men Friends to 
 our meeting, and they had advice to commmiicate on several 
 subjects ; after which the meeting concluded, on the second 
 of sixth month." 
 
 The preceding account is not introduced into this memoir 
 as a history of that Yearly Meeting, so much as to furnish 
 evidences of the state of the writer's mind. It was an im- 
 portant era of her life. It was like the beginning of days in 
 the course of a religious life which she ever after endeavoured 
 to pursue. To those who have yielded to the early operations 
 of Divine srace in the soul, the evidences of the work of re- 
 novation in the mind of Rebecca Budd are apparent, in the 
 notices she takes of the very subjects to which the attention 
 of her visited spirit was, doubtless, then turned. Thus the 
 witness for Truth within was responded to by evidences with- 
 out, or through others. That she greatly profited by the op- 
 portunity of attending that meeting, and mingling with exem- 
 plary religious characters, there can be no doubt. It is also 
 probable that this was the first opportunity she had ever had 
 of being at such a meeting, at least in such a tender, teach- 
 able state of mind; and it may be ranked among those in- 
 strumental means of receiving Divine good, which were pe- 
 culiarly blessed to her sincere and increasingly devoted 
 soul. 
 
 On the first day following the Yearly Meeting, she appears 
 to have been much reached and edified under the testimonies 
 of Martha Routh, Charity Cook, and Lydia Hoskins; but 
 more especially with the closing A'ocal supplication of Ruth 
 Anna Rutter, of Pottsgrove, Pennsylvania. "This prayer," 
 she says, " was the most solemn and awful of any thing I 
 ever heard before. It seemed really as if she was an angel 
 descended from heaven. May I ever bear this solemn season 
 in remembrance, is my sincere wish." 
 
 The following morning, after a parting religious opportu- 
 nity at the breakfast-table, in which Daniel S. Dean had 
 some excellent advice to communicate, she and her mother, 
 with several others, left New Y'^ork and came on by stage to 
 Princeton. Next day they reached home, to the mutual joy 
 
Chap. XV.] MEMOIR OF HIS WIFE. 499 
 
 of themselves, their relatives and friends, which was followed 
 by many social visits. 
 
 Of this journey home she says in her diary, which was 
 regularly continued : " The weather being pleasant, and my 
 having been so long confined in a city, I enjoyed the ride and 
 the view of the country highly. Every thing seemed to wear 
 a pleasing aspect. The meadows were clothed in beautiful 
 green of the richest colours ; the fields were adorned with 
 rye and wheat, bowing their loaded heads with the wind ; the 
 fruit trees appeared to have abundance of young fruit grow- 
 ing on them, and all promising plentiful crops. Do not all 
 these things call for thankful hearts? Certainly so. The 
 great and bountiful Giver of all good is ever bestowing on us 
 his daily blessings, and yet many of us are not truly obedient 
 to his will as manifested to us. May a change take place in 
 the hearts of the careless and ungrateful, is my sincere 
 desire." 
 
 In the continuation of her diary at home some memoran- 
 dums are occasionally made that show the state of her reli- 
 gious feelings, and furnish evidences that her mind was im- 
 proving in things of a higher nature than mere animal amuse- 
 ments and gratifications. 
 
 In the eleventh month, 1797, she again joined her uncle's 
 family in New York, on the occasion or immediate prospect of 
 the marriage of one of her cousins there. Her stay with 
 them was prolonged several months ; and while there she was 
 gratified with a visit to the boarding-school at Nine Partners, 
 The objects of this institution were grateful to her feelings, 
 and after describing the general order and economy thereof, 
 her pathetic expressions in relation to it are : " How beauti- 
 ful is the order observed ! and what a favour and privilege to 
 be in such a family!" It was doubtless here that the seeds 
 of desire were sown in her mind to obtain the privilege of 
 being a pupil in such an institution ; and as preparations were 
 making for the accommodation of a similar seminary at West- 
 town, under the care of Philadelphia Yearly Meeting, to this 
 opportunity her attention was turned, as one not only for 
 literary but religious improvement. Accordingly, when the 
 school was opened, she was among the first who entered it as 
 
500 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [Chap. XV. 
 
 as a pupil. Tliis important ei'a commenced on the 13tli of 
 the fifth month, 1799, and she continued as a scholar therein 
 about six months. 
 
 The following memorandum and narrative appear to have 
 been written by her about this time : — 
 
 " Having concluded to go to the West-town school as a 
 scholar for one year, if nothing occur to prevent my staying 
 so long, on the 10th of the fifth month, 1799, 1 set off, in com- 
 pany with sister Rachel, Mary West, and several of my inti- 
 mate friends. The parting with my dear parents, sisters, 
 brothers, and friends, was very painful to myself and them. 
 I had had many discouragements, but was willing to press 
 through them, believing it would prove beneficial to me to 
 spend some time at the school, as a place congenial to my 
 wishes ; for my sincere desire is that I may endeavour to 
 improve the little time that may be allotted me in this life. 
 
 " We had a pleasant ride to Philadelphia, where we stayed 
 until next morning. Then, after bidding my friends adieu, 
 set out at eight o'clock, in company with my cousin, Rebecca 
 Budd, who is likewise to be a scholar, and went in the West- 
 chester stage, with agreeable company. At four o'clock in 
 the afternoon we arrived at cousin Jonathan Carmalt's, who 
 received us kindly ; and after tea he took us to the school. 
 We were kindly received by the superintendent, his wnfe, and 
 others, as an addition to the family which already might be 
 called large. 
 
 "After sitting some time in the parlour, Phebe Cox came 
 in, whom I gladly embraced, as being more acquainted with 
 her than any other person in the family. With her I went 
 over the spacious building, and counted twenty-six rooms, one 
 of which, intended for the boy's lodging-room, is the full size 
 of the house. 
 
 " 13th. I am very much pleased with my new habitation. 
 It is situated on an eminence, surrounded on three sides by a 
 beautiful wood. The west side commands an elegant and 
 extensive prospect of hills, valleys, houses, orchards, &c., pre- 
 senting a great variety to the view. The house, including the 
 whole establishment, is four stories high. 
 
 " Our worthy friend John Cox came here the same day I 
 
Chap. XV.] MEMOIR OF HIS WIFE. 501 
 
 did, with a view of spending a few weeks. His company and 
 gospel labours, together with his kindly assisting the teachers, 
 were very grateful and encouraging. 
 
 " The morning he left us, at his request, we were all col- 
 lected in the meeting-room, and he addressed us with a power- 
 ful communication, in which he encouraged us all, in every 
 branch of the family, earnestly recommending a strict atten- 
 tion to the pointings of Divine Truth, which would be fur- 
 nished as a safe and sure guide, if properly sought after and 
 waited for. May his affectionate counsel and advice to us 
 during his stay here be treasured up to our lasting profit ; 
 and, like bread cast on the waters, be found profitable after 
 many days." 
 
 By reason of a vacancy that was likely to occur among the 
 female teachers, it appears that some of the members of the 
 committee, who had charge of the institution, were looking 
 toward Rebecca Budd to supply the place of Ann Bacon, who 
 had charge of the writing school. The subject being proposed 
 to her, occasioned a close conflict ; but after much solicitude, 
 her difiident mind was prevailed on to occupy the place of the 
 wi'iting-mistress in West-town Boarding-School. In this sta- 
 tion she continued, with much acceptance and satisfaction to 
 all who were interested in that seminary, during the succeed- 
 ing three years and near five months, or until her release and 
 return home in the third month 1803. 
 
 However unfavourable the situution for carrying on matri- 
 monial negotiations at such an institution might be con- 
 sidered, yet such was the case between her and myself, undis- 
 covered by our colleagues and the family, during a period of 
 several months. Amid the difficulties attendant on this deli- 
 cate subject, recourse was had to a correspondence by written 
 communications ; and the interchange of. these paper messen- 
 gers, unseen by others, was effected by means of our meeting 
 at the breakfast and tea table, and on other occasions. The 
 circumstance of her contemplated marriage increased the 
 anxiety she had long felt to be released from her arduous sta- 
 tion in the school ; and although seme of the female part of 
 the committee of superintendence of that seminary were aware 
 of her situation soon after the act of sendino; them her formal 
 
502 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [Chap. XV. 
 
 resignation, yet there appeared to be a want of sympathy, 
 and of proper exertions to procure another teacher to take 
 her place, so as to set her at liberty from the confinement of 
 West-town. Under these circumstances, her patience and 
 resignation were wonderful ; and she remained at the school 
 five months after she had informed the committee of her ear- 
 nest desire to be released. 
 
 From the time of her return to her parents and friends at 
 Mount Holly, in the third month, she was industriously en- 
 gaged in the necessary preparations for a new sphere of life ; 
 and the principles of plainness, simplicity, and moderation 
 were conspicuous in her choice of furniture and other accom- 
 modations. Humility and meekness adorned her character, 
 and the sweetness of sincerity and an innocent cheerfulness, 
 •mingled with the sympathies of sisterly affection, endeared 
 her to a large circle of relatives, acquaintances, and friends. 
 In all her movements and proceedings at this eventful period, 
 she was careful to act with exemplary circumspection, and in 
 accordance with the principles of Truth as professed by 
 Friends. Hence her aA^ersion to any thing like parade and 
 ostentation ; and especially in relation to the customs and 
 order of the age, as standing in connection with the solemni- 
 zation of marriages. 
 
 After publicly announcing our intentions before two monthly 
 meetings of Friends, held at Mount Holly, which was then 
 done personally, we were married at a public meeting held at 
 Friends' meeting-house in that town, on the 16th day of the sixth 
 month, 1803. Shortly after, in company with her aunt Rachel 
 Collins, (an aunt to whom she was tenderly attached,) we made 
 a visit to West-town Boarding-School, in whose inhabitants 
 and the welfare of the institution a deep interest continued to 
 be felt. By about the middle of the seventh month we were 
 comfortably settled in a small house, on a farm purchased a 
 few months previous, at my native place in Byberry. 
 
 The yellow fever again made its appearance in Philadelphia 
 during this summer and autumn ; and among its victims, Mary 
 Budd, one of the amiable daughters of her uncle, Joseph Budd, 
 was numbered to the grave. As this was a cousin dearly 
 beloved, and who but the preceding year had been her com- 
 
Chap. XV.] MEMOIR OF HIS WIFE. 503 
 
 panion to New York and in attending the Yearly Meeting in 
 that city, her death was a close trial to the mind and feelings 
 of my dear Rebecca B. Comly. But she mourned not as one 
 without hope, nor did she suffer the sense of her own bereave- 
 ment of so valuable a relative so to absorb her mind as to 
 forget the nearer relatives of the deceased. The sympathetic 
 sensations of her affectionate heart found expression in a letter 
 of condolence to her meek-spirited, precious cousin, Rebecca 
 Budd, of which the following copy was preserved, and must 
 have been written in the eleventh or twelfth month, 1803 : — 
 
 " Frequently for some time past, and renewedly so of late, 
 has my mind been affectionately turned toward thee, my dear 
 cousin. Yes, my dear, thou hast indeed claimed my warmest 
 sympathy in the recent trial which thou and thy dear parents, 
 myself, and many others have met with in the decease of thy 
 very precious sister Mary, whose pious, circumspect example 
 may we who are left behind a little longer endeavour to follow. 
 She was one to whom I felt strongly attached, and have 
 lamented the loss of her, yet I endeavoured to resign her to 
 Him who (no doubt to me) has admitted her pure spirit into the 
 mansions of rest and never-ending felicity ; for I fully believe 
 she was prepared for the glorious change. This reflection for- 
 bids the tear of sorrow improperly to flow, and has a tendency 
 to heal the wound that was occasioned by the affecting stroke. 
 
 " I have felt desirous of knowing the particulars respecting 
 her illness and decease, and thought of writing to thee or thy 
 father to inquire; but feared it would too much affect you, 
 and therefore forbore, and made inquiry of others ; but could 
 not obtain satisfactory intelligence. It would yet be agreea- 
 ble to me to have some account from thee, though I wish not 
 to occasion thee pain in complying with this request ; therefore 
 leave it entirely to the feelings of thy own mind. We have 
 moved into our new house a week since; and I have fre- 
 quently thought of writing to request thee to come and spend 
 a week or two, or longer, with us ; and perhaps cousin R. Bar- 
 tram would accompany thee. 
 
 Thy affectionate friend and cousin, 
 
 Rebecca B. Comly." 
 
504 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [Chap. XV. 
 
 Having been so long engaged in the tuition of children, it 
 appeared best and right for us to devote a further portion of 
 our time to the care and instruction of youth. In accordance 
 with this view, we opened a boarding-school for girls, in the 
 fourth month, 1804. In this we both found satisfactory and 
 ample employment, in the hope and endeavour to spend our 
 time so as to render a service to the community at large ; for 
 our pupils were not confined to the members of our own so- 
 ciety. My dear Rebecca was well qualified for her part of 
 the charge ; and her experience gained by so long being at 
 West-town, was now importantly useful on a smaller scale. 
 She watched over the health, the moral and religious welfare 
 of the interesting pupils under her charge, with a maternal 
 tenderness and Christian care. 
 
 In the discipline, economy, and order of her household, she 
 manifested a strict and persevering regard to sound princi- 
 ples; among which, moderation, temperance, and plainness, 
 were the evident fruits. 
 
 Her father's health having been on the decline for some 
 time, she addressed the following to her parents : 
 
 " 29th of First Month, 1804. 
 'I feel very desirous to spend a little time with you, and 
 endeavour to cheer up my dear father's spirits, which, in his 
 afflicted and trying situation, are probably often depressed. 
 Were it in my power I would come and spend a week or two 
 with you, and gladly devote my time and attention to waiting 
 on my endeared father; of whom I often think with a heart 
 overflowing with afiectionate sympathy and earnest solicitude 
 for his everlasting welfare. I much desire that he may be 
 favoured with patience and resignation, during the time that 
 the great Shepherd of his flock and family may see meet to 
 afflict him. For, however trying to nature, I fully believe 
 that trials and afflictions, if humbly submitted to, will have a 
 tendency to wean our affections from earthly objects and 
 pursuits, and place them on higher and more important con- 
 cerns. Thus shall we become fitted and prepared for ad- 
 mission into the heaven of rest and peace, where the wicked 
 cease from troubling and the weary soul is at rest." 
 
Chap. XV.] MEMOIR OF HIS WIFE. 505 
 
 It may be proper here to state, that her father, Doctor 
 Stacy Budd, departed this life on the 13th of the second 
 month following, only about two weeks after the above was 
 addressed to him. His illness was short, although his bodily 
 powers had been declining for a considerable time previous. 
 The following letter, addressed to her mother soon after this 
 bereavement, shows the tone and sympathetic feelings of her 
 sensitive mind : — 
 
 " Second Month, 29th, 1804. 
 
 " My dear Mother. : — Think not that my silence, since 
 returning from Mount Holly, has been the effect of a diminu- 
 tion of sincere affection, or through forgetfulness of thee and 
 my other near relatives, whom I left in deep heart-felt afflic- 
 tion, and with whom I had mingled my tears. Although when 
 with you I endeavoured to be composed, and was favoured 
 with a greater degree of serenity and calmness of mind than 
 I had any expectation of attaining, yet I deeply felt the loss 
 we bad sustained. But I wanted to soothe and comfort thee, 
 my dear mother and my dear sisters, for whom I felt more 
 deeply than for myself. And I am still sincerely desirous 
 that you may be favoured with serenity of mind, and entire 
 resignation to the will of Him who hath an undoubted right to 
 do as seemeth good unto himself. May you all be favoured 
 to breathe forth this language in the secret of your hearts : 
 < The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the 
 name of the Lord.' 
 
 "And may you with me, and all who feel the loss, enter- 
 tain the comfortable and consolatory hope, that the dear de- 
 parted spirit has experienced an admission into the realms 
 of bliss and never ending felicity. What greater consolation 
 could we have than this ! Let us, then, earnestly endeavour 
 so to live as to be prepared for our final change, Avhich cer- 
 tainly will arrive, but at what hour we know not. 
 
 " On seventh-day last, Hannah Yarnall, Mary Witchell and 
 several others took tea with us : after which, we had a precious 
 opportunity at Hannah's request, and she communicated her 
 sympathetic feelings with us, in our recent trial, in an affec- 
 tionate manner; which Avas truly comfortable to my mind. 
 
506 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [Chap. XV. 
 
 Hannali inquired kindly after thy health, &c. She is a valua- 
 ble Friend whom I much love, and desire to be grateful for 
 her kind attention to me, and also to be thankful for having 
 such kind neighbours. 
 
 " Love flows from my heart to you all ; and in warm affec- 
 tion with earnest solicitude for our mutual welfare and ad- 
 vancement Zionward, I am thy 
 
 R. B. COMLY." 
 
 It may be needful here to remark, that my dear Rebecca 
 seldom used the pen by way of making memorandums con- 
 cerning herself or hey state of mind, during several years of 
 this part of her life. Although the cares and concerns of a 
 large family necessarily occupied her attention, yet her mind 
 was not absorbed in them. She appeared to have the qualifi- 
 cation of "looking well to the ways of her household," and 
 she certainly "eat not the bread of idleness." 
 
 Her diligence in the attendance of our religious meetings, 
 her good example of humble waiting therein, and her care to 
 take her family and pupils with her, and see that they behaved 
 with propriety, were conspicuous traits in her character and 
 worthy of imitation. 
 
 She was ever ready to sympathize with the afflicted and 
 careful to visit the sick ; and these were the only visits which 
 she would allow herself to make on first-days. For though 
 she did not attach any superstitious veneration or sanctity to 
 that day, yet she thought it proper in parents and heads of 
 families to set a good example to those under their care, par- 
 ticularly in keeping quiet, and cultivating a disposition for 
 profitable reading and religious reflection, especially on first- 
 day afternoons. This she considered, was keeping the day as 
 a day of rest, that might be reflected on with profit and satis- 
 faction. Hence it was that her family and domestics, to- 
 gether with the pupils were regularly collected on first-days ; 
 when, after a solemn pause, some portion of the Scriptures or 
 other instructive lessons of profitable reading were introduced. 
 And it may truly be said, many of these seasons were oppor- 
 tunities of much tenderness and contrition, long to be remem- 
 bered by some of those present. 
 
Chai'.XV.] memoir of HIS AVIFE. 507 
 
 Although such was the line of conduct whicli sho considered 
 right and proper for her, yet she was careful not to cennure 
 others. It was sufficient for her to set a good example, and 
 to feel peace in her own mind as the consequence. 
 
 But she was not indifferent to the welfare of others, and 
 that of their children and families, where she judged some 
 gentle and private caution, counsel, or admonition would be 
 beneficial. In the due attendance of our religious assemblies, 
 she was often concerned to encourage others who might ap- 
 pear remiss. And in relation to "plainness of speech, be- 
 haviour, and apparel," her remarks to young persons in a 
 mild and persuasive manner appeared to be productive of 
 good, and increased their attachment to her. Some remarka- 
 ble instances might be adduced of the effects of her labours 
 in the cause of Truth and for the benefit of individuals ; but 
 their record is in heaven. 
 
 Our boarding-school for girls was continued until the tenth 
 month, 1810. During this period we had the care and tuition 
 of a considerable number of pupils, many of whom were not 
 mem-bers of our religious society, but were very interesting 
 children ; and to many of them we became very much at- 
 tached, and they to us. Their amiable manners and obliging 
 dispositions rendered the care, toil, and tuition of them com- 
 paratively lighter, yet others among them were of a different 
 character. 
 
 As West-town boarding-school was prohibited from taking 
 young men who wished to qualify themselves for school-teach- 
 ers; and various efforts had been made, particularly by the 
 Friends in New Jersey, to get up a school for that object, 
 and to finish the education of boys in the higher branches of 
 scientific knowledge ; and as all these efforts had failed, in the 
 summer of 1810 we came to the conclusion, by and with the 
 advice and concurrence of our friends, to change our family 
 and school from girls to boys, so as particularly to embrace 
 that class of young men who wished to qualify themselves for 
 teachers of schools, or finish their school education. 
 
 Having engaged David Hoopes, a worthy, exemplary young 
 man of Chester county, as principal teacher of Mathematics, 
 &c., the boarding-school for boys commenced on the 1st of 
 
508 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [Chap. XV- 
 
 the tenth month, 1810. It Avas ■well supplied with students, 
 and appeared to answer the contemplated purpose in a satis- 
 factory manner. 
 
 About one hundred and fifty pupils received instruction in 
 this school during its continuance of about four years and a 
 half; a considerable number of them followed the useful bu- 
 siness of teaching school for some time afterward. The 
 talents, usefulness, and influence of my dear wife were profit- 
 ably employed among these students, as many of them could 
 bear ample testimony. 
 
 It should be noted that at the opening of Byberry monthly 
 meeting, when set off from Horsham in the third month, 1810, 
 Rebecca B. Comly was called to the table to act as clerk. At 
 the next meeting she was appointed the regular clerk of the 
 women's monthly meeting, in which service she continued by 
 successive re-appointments for several years, much to the sa- 
 tisfaction of Friends. She was also very frequently and use- 
 fully employed in other services of the monthly and quarterly 
 meetings. 
 
 From the early part of the year 1814 to its close, I being 
 engaged in making religious visits to all the families of co- 
 loured people, and many others within a distance of six or 
 seven miles around, chiefly on first-day afternoons, my dear 
 Rebecca cheerfully took charge of the family in my absence, 
 and encouraged the labour of gospel love. A prospect of 
 more extensive service in the work of the ministry, induced 
 us to think it right to dismiss the school about the 1st of the 
 fourth month, 1815; and in pursuance of my prospect, I went 
 to New York and New England. The following memorandum 
 made by my wife, refers to my setting out : — 
 
 "Fifth month 22d, 1815. — A memorable day has this been 
 to me. Never, never, did I witness such feelings on any oc- 
 casion ! Never had I so much cause to feel so deeply, as in 
 parting with my beloved and truly precious companion, and 
 affectionate, sympathizing bosom friend ; with whom I have 
 lived twelve years, wanting about twenty-five days, in much 
 love and true harmony. Never since our being united in 
 marriage has there, to my knowledge, occurred any circum- 
 Btance between us that was in the least degree unpleasant — 
 
Chap. XV.] MEMOIR OF HIS WIFE. 509 
 
 no, not a word from one to the other that wounded the feel- 
 ings, but instead thereof, harmony, love, and condescension. 
 How pleasant the reflection, now that we are separated ! How 
 long I shall be deprived of his valuable, instructive company 
 and conversation, is not for me, poor, short-sighted mortal, to 
 know ; I suppose at least four or five months, and it may be 
 for ever. He only knows who has called and sent him forth 
 to visit the seed in the Eastern States. He has liberally dis- 
 pensed blessings to him, and given him a mind replete with 
 heavenly love, and an unreserved resignation to his Divine 
 will and requirings, even that of his whole heart. 
 
 " Oh ! how he was favoured in testimony in our meeting 
 yesterday morning, and also in the afternoon, in our family, 
 when several of our neighbours, who came to take leave of 
 him, were present. May I never forget it ! Oh ! how aifect- 
 ing it was to my poor, tried mind, and yet truly satisfactory 
 to hear so particularly ' of the gracious dealings of the Al- 
 mighty with his dedicated soul.' May it be remembered 
 while recollection remains, and may I, with full purpose of 
 heart, endeavour to follow his pious example as he is endea- 
 vouring to follow Christ, our holy head and pattern. Oh ! 
 that my heart may be more and more devoted to Him. 
 
 " 'What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits?' 
 was sounded in our ears repeatedly, in his precious testimony 
 yesterday. May it be the language of my heart more fre- 
 quently than the returning day, for innumerable favours that 
 have been conferred on me, though so unworthy thereof; and 
 one of the greatest is that of having so worthy a companion. 
 May I endeavour to make suitable returns therefor. 
 
 "Although I have been endeavouring, ever since the sub- 
 ject was opened in our monthly meeting, and that is almost 
 two months since, to give him up to the Divine disposal, know- 
 ing that we have nothing of our own, and that all the blessings 
 we enjoy are derived from God alone ; yet how extremely 
 trying it is to human nature to endure such a privation, and 
 be left with the care of my four dear little children, the fa- 
 mily and farm, and to feel myself so unqualified for the task ; 
 for the right performance of which, may I humbly implore 
 Divine assistance and daily seek to grow in grace." 
 
510 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [Chap. XV. 
 
 The following extracts from some of her letters, show the 
 state of her mind during my absence on this religious visit : — 
 
 " Fifth month 25th, 1815. — I write, my dear, to inform thee 
 that we are about as well as when thou left us. My mind has 
 been much Avith thee, desiring that thou mayest be favoured 
 with a comfortable degree of serenity ; as great a portion of 
 which my poor, tried mind has witnessed as I could hope for, 
 and indeed more than I looked for. For which favour I 
 desire to feel thankful ; as also for the kind attention of my 
 friends." 
 
 " Sixth month 4th. — Three of thy precious letters, my dear, 
 are lying by me ; and I think thou canst conceive better than 
 I can describe the feelings of my mind on the perusal of them. 
 I feel grateful for thy sympathetic remembrance, even < aspi- 
 rations for the Divine blessing' on my behalf. I hope thy 
 mind will not be improperly interrupted with the thoughts of 
 home, or any thing thou hast left behind ; yet it is one of 
 the greatest earthly comforts I can enjoy in thy absence, to 
 hear frequently from thee. I have been remarkably favoured 
 with composure of mind thus far, 
 
 " Thou mayest rest assured, my dear, that I will endeavour 
 to attend particularly to our dear lambs, to whom I feel 
 perhaps more nearly attached since thy absence than ever 
 before." 
 
 " Sixth month 11th. — I am truly glad thy mind is more com- 
 fortable than during thy stay in New York. I have mentally, 
 in some measure, shared with thee in thy gloom or pensive- 
 ness ; but am son-y thou let in discouragements respecting the 
 prospect of having a meeting on seventh-day evening, for the 
 poor domestics who had been toiling all the week in Friends' 
 families, &c. It looked very pleasant to me, and I concluded, 
 as thou hadst been 'a silent learner all the week,' thy work 
 in attending to thy prospect would very properly close the 
 week's labour for the dedicated servants of the great Hus- 
 bandman. Well, my dear, I hope thou wilt be favoured in 
 future to attend properly to every opening of duty, and that 
 for thy unreserved dedication thou wilt be rewarded with 
 »weet peace of mind. 
 
Chap. XV.] MEMOIR OF HIS WIFE. 511 
 
 " Thy account of the two meetings at Flushing is cordial 
 to my feelings, particularly so as thy precious mind was so 
 fully relieved. Ah ! my dear, thou art highly favoured in 
 many yrays." 
 
 " Seventh month 2d. — First-day afternoon. I have just 
 retired, my dear, to converse with thee a few minutes, as our 
 reading opportunity is just over. 
 
 '< Thy last, written at Richard Mott's and at Purchase, I 
 need not tell thee, was acceptable ; for thou knowest thy R. 
 is always gratified with thy precious favours. On sixth-day 
 last, Nathan Hunt, John Shoemaker, and a great many 
 strangers were at our meeting. Nathan had a great deal of 
 close doctrine for us, and J. Shoemaker also had much to say. 
 The meeting was very large and crowded. Many appeared to 
 have come from their work without changing their dress ; and 
 I think there were more coloured people than I ever saw at 
 our meeting before." 
 
 Eighth month 4th. — Thine of the 23d, &c., I have just re- 
 ceived and perused with peculiar satisfaction. Yes, my dear, 
 particularly relieving to my mind is it, to find that thy deeply 
 tried ' mind has become quite resigned to go on Avithout J. 
 W., if it should so turn.' I am glad the question is settled, 
 though it is not in the way wished, and fully thought would 
 be right. 
 
 " My fervent desires have been and still are, that thou 
 mayest be favoured with resignation, and enabled singly to 
 attend to all the requisitions of thy Divine Master, Avho has 
 called thee from thy family and friends, and all that is dear 
 to thee in this life, to devote thy time and talents to his ser- 
 vice. And I doubt not he does, from time to time, amply 
 reward thee for such full and unreserved dedication. Mayest 
 thou then be encouraged to persevere ; and be not at all dis- 
 couraged from attending to any and every part of the service 
 that may be opened to thy view." 
 
 "Ninth month 10th. — This has been a day of mental indis- 
 position ; a depression of spirits, occasioned perhaps by being 
 disappointed of receiving a letter from thee, my dearest 
 friend, last evening, as I had fondly anticipated. Having 
 been favoured with a precious memento of thy affectionate 
 
512 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [Chap. XV. 
 
 remembrance once a week ever since thou left me, a melan- 
 choly fear attends my mind that thou mayest be indisposed, 
 and not able to write, and possibly I may never be permitted 
 to see thee more. Oh ! the cogitations of my poor, anxious 
 mind. In vain have I endeavoured to divest myself of such 
 distressing thoughts, for almost continually have they accom- 
 panied me for some days past. Yet I have been willing to 
 admit the idea that these gloomy feelings are the work of the 
 enemy of my soul's peace. 
 
 " Nearly all day and last night this gloom has attended my 
 mind, and frequently have I thought of dear Joshua Maule 
 since thou left home. [He finished his course while from 
 home on a religious visit.] Yet I may humbly acknowledge 
 that I have been supported beyond my expectation, and fa- 
 voured with a comfortable share of resignation and acqui- 
 escence in the Divine Will ; fully believing it is his will 
 that we should be separated at present, and that thou 
 shouldest be engaged in his work and service. Mayst thou 
 be preserved, and assisted to persevere in the great and good 
 cause ; and mayst thou (if consistent with the Divine will) 
 be favoured to return to us again in the right time, with the 
 reward of sweet peace for thy labours." 
 
 Memorandums. — "Ninth month 17th. — My anxiety of 
 mind not yet relieved by hearing from my precious husband. 
 No letter for two weeks past. Oh ! that I may be favoured 
 with that degree of patience and quiet resignation that will 
 enable me to pass the time of our separation comfortably. 
 This, I may humbly acknowledge, has been my experience 
 most of the time since my privation of his precious and ever- 
 instructive company and conversation, in which he has been, 
 ever since my first acquaintance with him, a conspicuous ex- 
 ample. May he be preserved, as in the hollow of his Master's 
 holy hand, is my fervent desire. And, oh ! may I more and 
 more endeavour to follow his footsteps, as he is endeavouring 
 to follow Christ. 
 
 "Evening. — The anxiety of my mind relieved by the re- 
 ceipt of an acceptable, precious letter from my beloved hus- 
 band, informing of his continued health and comfortably 
 
Chap. XV.] MEMOIR OF HIS WIFE. 513 
 
 getting along in that Northern country. He also gives 
 account of the great openness there is in the minds of the 
 people toward Friends, and in receiving gospel truths ; it be- 
 ing a time wherein many, among the dear young people par- 
 ticularly, are preciously visited by the great and good Shep- 
 herd of his flock and family. Now I am fully convinced that 
 my uneasiness has been the effect of imagination, that un- 
 wearied enemy of our peace when improperly indulged. Oh ! 
 may I be humbly thankful for the many blessings and favours 
 conferred on me, a poor, unworthy creature. 
 
 " Tenth month 13th, 1815. — To my inexpressible joy and 
 heartfelt satisfaction, my precious husband and truly sympa- 
 thetic bosom friend was favoured to return to his own habita- 
 tion, family, and friends, who gladly received him with open 
 arms. My sensations at meeting him are not to be described. 
 Our affectionate embraces were succeeded by tears of joy, 
 and a solemn stillness not soon to be forgotten — expressive 
 silence, more impressive than words, of feelings beyond 
 utterance ! As soon as we could recover from this ecstacy, 
 we inquired after each other's welfare, and pleasant conversa- 
 tion ensued. 
 
 " It happened that Mother Comly was spending the after- 
 noon with us ; and though I was looking for his return, yet I 
 tried not to look so soon, lest I should be disappointed. 
 However, I was not the less pleased to see him ; but was 
 agreeably surprised to see him so much increased in flesh, 
 with health pictured in his placid countenance. Oh ! my 
 poor, unworthy heart ! canst thou ever be sufficiently thank- 
 ful for so great a favour conferred on thee, as the safe return 
 of thy dear husband, with the reward of a peaceful mind for 
 his devotedness and full dedication to his Lord and Master's 
 will and service." 
 
 More might be added, descriptive of the state of her mind 
 during the interesting period of our being separated on ac- 
 count of my religious engagements ; but the preceding may 
 suffice to show the power of sympathetic feeling, and the 
 pious frame of her precious spirit. There is, however, one 
 
 essay of a letter addressed to a young woman during this 
 33 
 
514 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [Chap. XV. 
 
 period, which strikingly displays her deep sympathy with a 
 mind that was passing through the purifying operations of 
 the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Nor were her sympathies 
 confined to mental trials and sufferings, but extended to all 
 classes of suffering humanity, and also toward the inferior 
 ordei's of created beings. 
 
 << Thine, my dear M., of the 23d inst., I received, and may 
 acknowledge it awakened every sympathetic sensation I am 
 capable of feeling. Sincerely, my dear, do I feel for thee ; 
 but am conscious of my own poverty and inability to offer in 
 this way any thing that will be likely to alleviate thy distress. 
 But, my precious friend and sister, thou knowest to whom 
 thou must look for comfort and true consolation ; as doubtless 
 thou hast largely and frequently partaken thereof in times 
 past. And be not discouraged or too much cast down, if his 
 blessed countenance should be vailed for a season from thy 
 view ; for this I believe has been the experience, at times, of 
 all those who are endeavouring to travel Zionward. There- 
 fore, be encouraged to liope that this trying, gloomy season 
 will ere long be followed by the smiles of the dear Redeemer's 
 countenance ; which will reanimate and cheer thy drooping 
 mind to persevere in the path that leads to peace. 
 
 " I have wanted to have a little of thy company, and won- 
 dered that thou hadst not been to see me for so long a time. 
 Perhaps thou canst come and stay all night soon, and then we 
 may have a little personal converse. I feel entire willingness 
 to be thy confidential friend, but am sorry I am not more 
 Avorthy thereof. Please accept the love of my dear J. Comly, 
 as communicated in his last letter to me, which I received on 
 second-day last. He was in health, and intends writing to 
 thee. Farewell. 
 
 "From thy affectionate and sympathizing friend, 
 
 "Rebecca 33. Comly." 
 
 In the year 1816, in addition to her services as clerk of the 
 monthly meeting of Friends at Byberry, she was placed in the 
 responsible station of overseer. This service was attended to 
 with scrupulous regard to principle ; and from evidences fur- 
 
Chap. XV.] MEMOIR OF HIS WIFE. 515 
 
 nishcd it would not be too much to say, that her concern and 
 care was to fulfil her duties faithfully and impartially, "not 
 by constraint" of monthly meeting appointment, "but wil- 
 lingly and of a ready mind," and "as an example to the 
 flock." The acceptance with which she filled the duties of 
 overseer, was evinced by the reappointments to which she 
 submitted, until she was released at her own request in the 
 year 1825. 
 
 Another service was laid upon her, for which she was well 
 qualified — the care of the poor. This she attended to for 
 several years, to good satisfaction. In all the services of 
 society she manifested a willingness to be useful, without 
 ostentation, or assuming any thing to herself. The good of 
 others, and the welfare of society, together with the support 
 of order and discipline in the church, were among the great 
 and leading principles which influenced her obedient mind. 
 
 During the summer of 1818, believing it required of me 
 again to make a religious visit to New England, and Friends 
 uniting therewith, I was set at liberty to pursue the prospect. 
 This was the occasion of another close trial to my dear wife ; 
 but with a noble magnanimity of mind she was enabled to 
 resign me to the service, although under some trying circum- 
 stances. The following extracts of her letters portray some 
 of the sensibilities of her heart : — 
 
 " Tenth month 7th. — We sensibly feel, my dear, the loss of 
 thy company ; but I greatly desire to be favoured with resig- 
 nation of mind, which I have laboured after ever since thou 
 first mentioned thy prospect of leaving us. I have always 
 endeavoured to be cheerful when in thy presence, lest thou 
 should feel it to be still more trying to leave us ; for I plainly 
 saw that without any discouragement from me thou hadst as 
 much as thou couldst well bear ; and I believe that nothing 
 but a full belief of its being a Divine requisition could have 
 reconciled this separation from each other. 
 
 " On fourth-day last, Hannah Yarnal invited me to go with 
 her to see Phebe James, who lately buried two daughters. 
 Feeling myself so disconsolate, at first I thought I could not 
 go, but at length concluded to accept the oflFer. We found 
 
516 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1831. 
 
 her Tveak and poorly, but mucli composed. Hannah imparted 
 words of comfort to her, and I was satisfied with the visit." 
 
 " Tenth month 11th. — Thy friends generally appear much 
 interested in thy comfortably getting along, and all are pleased 
 to hear of thy having a suitable companion. On this account 
 I also a7n truly glad. Yes, my dear, my anxious mind is 
 much relieved, but thou wilt still have my sympathy and my 
 desires for thy preservation ; and I hope thou wilt not be too 
 anxiously concerned about us, nor about any of thy affairs, 
 &c. at home ; for I think nothing of these will suffer in thy 
 absence. I will endeavour to attend to every thing as well as 
 I am capable, particularly in watching over and instructing 
 our dear children, who feel deeply the loss of thee. Thy mes- 
 sage of love together with the advice communicated to them, 
 I trust will be beneficial." 
 
 " Tenth month 23d. — Our mutual friend, Eden Haydock, 
 deceased about a week since. Dear cousin Mary, I feel much 
 sympathy with her in her deep afflictions. I am glad to find 
 thy health is improved, and thy spirits also. Those trying, 
 proving seasons I trust are dispensed for thy further refine- 
 ment, and to qualify for more extensive labour in thy Master's 
 service. I desire thou mayst still be wholly given up and 
 fully resigned to the requisitions of Divine Wisdom, and cheer- 
 fully do what thy hands find to do Avithout anxiety about us. 
 I acknowledge with thankfulness that we are favoured with 
 health, and I believe we try to do as well as we can. Time 
 passes more pleasantly than I had expected it could without 
 thee, but the privation is sensibly felt. My endeavours are 
 after resignation of mind ; and though I am willing thou 
 shouldst be industrious, and return to us as soon as thou canst 
 with the reward of a peaceful mind, yet have thought whether 
 two meetings a day will not be too laborious for thee." 
 
 " Eleventh month. — Interesting indeed, my dear, is thy 'ac- 
 count of thyself.' Nothingshort of thy precious company would 
 afford so much satisfaction to thy R. as thy frequent epistolary 
 communications. But do still try to take care of thyself, not 
 only for thy own sake, but for mine and our dear children's, 
 all of whom are warmly interested in thy welfare. 
 
 " It is a trying circumstance to my mind that thou hast no 
 
Chap. XV.] MEMOIR OF HIS WIFE. 517 
 
 steady companion ; one who could know and understand, and 
 share with thee in those trials which thou hast to pass through, 
 particulai'ly when thou hast meetings among those not of our 
 society. 
 
 " I desire thou wilt endeavour to divest thyself of all anxiety 
 about home, and thy affairs here. Our brothers and friends 
 are very kind and attentive in calling to see us. Our men 
 have been industrious and careful, and have their fall work as 
 forward as the neighbours." 
 
 " Twelfth month. — I have endeavoured to be resigned and 
 patient during thy absence, but shall esteem it a great favour 
 to have thee with us again, though I do not desire it till the 
 right time. 
 
 " If on thy return, my dear, thou should think it right to 
 visit thy friend Isaac Hicks, who is poorly, I shall accede 
 thereto, though every added day seems to be lengthened, noAv 
 that we are looking for thee so soon. My affectionate love is 
 to Samuel Hicks and wife, with my grateful acknowledgment 
 of their kindness and attention to thee. 
 
 " Father, mother, brothers and sisters are generally in usual 
 health. I am thine, affectionately, 
 
 "Rebecca B. Comly." 
 
 Near the close of the year I returned to my family and 
 friends with a peaceful mind, having completed this arduous 
 journey in about three months. I was joyfully welcomed by 
 my dear wife, who, with my children and friends, had been 
 preserved in comfortable health during my absence. Thanks 
 be to the Preserver of men. 
 
 In the station of clerk of Abington quarterly meeting she 
 had served acceptably for a number of years previous to the 
 separation of the society into two distinct bodies. At the re- 
 organization of the Yearly Meeting, in the tenth month, 1827, 
 she was called to the table to act as clerk at its first sitting ; 
 and subsequently, with great unanimity, was chosen to fill that 
 important station for several successive years. 
 
 Perhaps the state of her own feelings in relation to her 
 deep interest in the affairs and state of society cannot be 
 better expressed than by transcribing one of the closing 
 
518 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [Chap. XV. 
 
 minutes formed by her at the adjournmjent of the Yearly Meet- 
 ing, as follows : — 
 
 " Gratefully impressed with the sense that a measure of 
 Divine life and power has been mercifully vouchsafed at times 
 during our deliberations on the important subjects which have 
 claimed our attention ; thankful for the favour, and ascribing 
 to the blessed Head of the church the praise of his owti works, 
 the meeting concludes, to meet again on the second second- 
 day, in the fourth month, next year, if consistent with the 
 Divine will." 
 
 In the fall of the year 1828 I took an extensive journey 
 into the northern parts of New York State, on a religious visit 
 to Friends and others. From her affectionate letters written 
 during my absence on this journey, the following extracts are 
 descriptive of her feelings : — 
 
 " Ninth month 28th. — It is a great satisfaction to me that 
 you get along so comfortably, and that thou, my dear, felt 
 excused from attending the monthly meeting mentioned. I 
 hope it will not be required of thee to attend any meet- 
 ings for business where there is disunity. As I know thou art 
 a friend to peace and quietness, and so devoted to Divine 
 requirings, I hope thou wilt feel easy to retire from scenes of 
 confusion and strife. The privation of thy precious company 
 is sensibly felt ; yet I wish not to repine. I hope thou wilt 
 not feel too much anxiety about home, for we all feel disposed 
 to do the best we can in thy absence. \Yrite often to us, for re- 
 ceiving letters from thee will be among our greatest comforts." 
 
 " Tenth month 25th. — It is with much pleasure, my dear, I 
 am seated to acknowledge the receipt of thy two most accept- 
 able mementos of aifectionate remembrance of us, while tra- 
 velling in distant places where ' trials' abound. But I hope 
 and believe, as thou art humbly devoted to thy Master's cause, 
 his all-sustaining arm will be underneath to support through 
 all. Therefore be encouraged and endeavour to perform all 
 that appears to be required at thy hands. And when thou 
 canst return to us with the rewards of peace, I can assure thee 
 a welcome reception. If we dare be so selfish, we would 
 rejoice to keep thee with us; but I do not feel at liberty to 
 
Chap. XV.] MEMOIR OF HIS WIFE. 519 
 
 desire it, unless I fully believed it would be right. Although 
 thy being so much absent from us is a great trial, I desire to 
 be resigned, hoping it may have a good eflTect on my own mind, 
 which needs something to quicken it to a sense of its own 
 condition. 
 
 " Thy precious communications, fraught with such excellent 
 and suitable advice and cautions, are a great comfort to me, 
 and I hope and trust will tend to our dear children's improve- 
 ment, and prove as 'bread cast upon the waters' to their sus- 
 ceptible minds. 
 
 From this long and toilsome journey I returned home on the 
 26th of first month, 1829. Mutual feelings of rejoicing, with 
 a grateful sense of Divine favour in thus permitting us once 
 more to meet and mingle together, pervaded our minds, and 
 cemented us in the evidences of Divine regard. 
 
 About this time my dear Kebecca made a visit to a number 
 of our members who very seldom got out to meetings. It 
 appeared to be an acceptable labour of love, in which her sym- 
 pathy with the trials and difficulties of some of her fellow- 
 creatures was called into exercise, and tended to their encou- 
 ragement. Well might it be for society if there were more of 
 this kind of friendly care and labour. 
 
 In the order of Truth there is a beautiful economy observed 
 and enjoyed by minds that endeavour to abide under its regu- 
 lating influence. The following little memorandum, found 
 among my beloved wife's papers, shows the discriminating 
 sense and feeling of her spirit in relation to this order and eco- 
 nomy, as respects the state of a meeting under the influence 
 of vocal testimony : 
 
 " On the 20th of fifth-month, 1830, to the surprise of many 
 
 Friends, appeared in our meeting, and with a low voice 
 
 uttered the following expression: <I am constrained to ac- 
 knowledge the goodness and mercy of God.' When he sat 
 down a great solemnity prevailed over the meeting. But this 
 was somewhat dissipated by another Friend rising almost im- 
 mediately and delivering a communication, which, though 
 good as to the words, I thought might have been spared, or in 
 any wise deferred a little longer. 
 
520 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [Chap. XV. 
 
 In the sixth-month, 1830, Kebecca B. Comly was appointed 
 to the station of elder of Byberry meeting, and continued 
 therein with much faithfulness and acceptance to the close of 
 her days. 
 
 Aware that the partialities of affection may strongly tend to 
 bias the judgment, it will become the writer of these memoirs 
 to avoid too highly colouring the portrait of his affectionate 
 partner and true help-meet — for such she truly was, in tempo- 
 ral and in religious concerns. Diffident of her own qualifica- 
 tions, she was never assuming, and her value as an elder in 
 society was not extensively known. 
 
 The last preceding extract forms the closing paragraph of this 
 valued Memoir. It was doubtless the design of our dear father to 
 render it complete to the close of the life of his beloved companion ; 
 yet, although this was not attained, the affectionate testimony to her 
 inestimable worth is full and satisfactory. 
 
 On the occasion of her interment, when taking a beloved friend 
 from a distance by the band, the utterance of words was denied him, 
 but by a look and token full of meaning, the invitation was extended, 
 "Come, go with me to my home ;" that home which he felt was now 
 bereft of its greatest treasure — the dearest in his social affections. 
 To the same friend and brother, in after time, in alluding to his reli- 
 gious concerns to travel from home, as also to his loneliness of feel- 
 ing connected with the loss of his endeared companion, his emphatic 
 expression was, "When the waters are troubled, I have not her sym- 
 pathetic encouragement — there is no one to put me forth." 
 
 Although he was frequently engaged in after years in religious 
 services abroad, a regular circumstantial account of these engage- 
 ments appears not to have been recorded, and but few memorandums 
 of continuous dates are found as materials for forming an uninter- 
 rupted journal to the close of his long and useful life; yet there is 
 sufficient to give evidence that the whole bent of his mind was to do 
 his Master's will ; to be found filling his allotted station on the walls 
 of Zion, with fidelity, integrity, and consistency. 
 
Chap. XVI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 521 
 
 CHAPTER XVI. 
 
 On tlie Both of tenth month, 1832, Friends gave me a mi- 
 nute of unity, with a prospect opened in our monthly meeting 
 of making a religious visit in several places within the limits 
 of our Yearly Meeting. This being the first visit of the kind 
 since the decease of my dear wife, I found it a close trial to 
 leave my dear children. But after our quarterly meeting in 
 the eleventh month, receiving information that Shrewsbury 
 and Rahway quarter was next to be held at Hardwick, I felt 
 a renewed concern to attend it. I had twice been at that 
 quarter, once at Rahway, and once at Shrewsbury, and in 
 neither case felt relief of a concern on account of the members 
 of society there. I had also felt much sympathy with Friends 
 about Hardwick since my visit to those parts last summer. 
 As no suitable companion offered, I was about to set out alone, 
 but my esteemed friend James Walton concluded to bear me 
 company, and we set forward on the 12th of eleventh month, 
 in a dearborn wagon, and reached Kingwood the first night. 
 Next day went on to James Willson's, at Hardwick, where we 
 arrived near evening, about seventy miles from our homes. 
 
 On fourth-day, the 14th, attended the select quarterly meet- 
 ing. It Avas small, but it was a good meeting, in which I found 
 much openness to labour to encourage Friends in uprightness 
 of life and conversation, and to extend brotherly care and 
 kindness one toward another, and toward the members of their 
 respective meetings. In order to be qualified to fill their sta- 
 tions with usefulness and consistency, they were reminded of 
 the Divine admonition to John Churchman, as applicable to 
 ministers and elders now: "Gather thyself from the cumbers 
 of the world, and be thou weaned from the popularity, love, 
 and friendship thereof." 
 
 Next day the general meeting assembled. It was a comfort- 
 able opportunity, in which much brotherly love and conde- 
 scension were manifest, and I had a share in the labour to the 
 
522 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1832. 
 
 peace of my own mind. A proposal to join that quarter to 
 New York Yearly Meeting was deliberately considered, and 
 agreed to be laid before our ensuing Yearly Meeting for its 
 concurrence. Also a proposal Avas brought up from Kingwood 
 monthly meeting to be joined to Bucks quarter. Much bro- 
 therly sympathy one with another marked the consideration 
 of this subject, which resulted in the consent of the quarter 
 for such an application to be made, and a committee was ap- 
 pointed to attend Bucks quarter for that purpose. 
 
 About fifty Friends had travelled over the mountains to 
 attend this quarter ; those from Shrewsbury had come near 
 ninety miles. It appeared to be mutually satisfactory to hold 
 the quarter here at this time, and the cement of society was 
 evidently strengthened thereby. Friends mingled together 
 in their social feelings, and their children and families had 
 the opportunity of the company of Friends from distant parts. 
 Divers children and young people sat the meeting through, 
 with much stillness and interested attention, who had never 
 before been at a quarterly meeting; and it seemed like a 
 season of renewed encouragement to the few families remain- 
 ing in that neighbourhood. The family accommodations of 
 board and lodging were ample, hospitable, and comfortable, 
 and both visitors and visited seem to be renewedly animated 
 in the feelings of friendship and an increase of pure love. 
 
 On sixth-day was held a verj crowded public meeting, in 
 which divers testimonies were delivered, that appeared to be 
 well received, and the minds of many present were baptized 
 into solemn feeling. This also appeared to be among right 
 things, and tended to the encouragement of Friends in this 
 remote part of society, and also may be useful for the removal 
 of prejudices and the spreading of Friends' principles. 
 
 On seventh-day with a peaceful mind we returned to King- 
 wood, where we attended meeting next day to our satisfaction 
 and peace. Notice having been spread, it was a crowded 
 meeting, although a very rainy morning. A solid looking 
 man was there of the Dunker society, who said after meeting 
 that it was like sitting "in heavenly places in Christ Jesus." 
 The word of life seemed to have free course in many minds, 
 and it was a good meeting. Afternoon we rode to Watson 
 
Chap. XVI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 523 
 
 Fell's, at Solebnry and lodged ; next day readied home ^ith 
 peaceful and I hope thankful hearts. 
 
 On the 28th and 29th of eleventh month, attended Bucks 
 quarterly meeting held at Middletown. Willett Hicks and 
 John Mott were there. It was largely attended. The general 
 quarter was rather a laborious one, but some life appeared in 
 the appointment of a committee to visit the monthly meetings, 
 and the proposal of Kingwood monthly meeting being united 
 to that quarter was acquiesced in. J. M. requested to have 
 the shutters opened at the close, but after a long laborious 
 meetincr, and a communication that did not afford much re- 
 newal of encouragement, this effort seemed, as oft such oppor- 
 tunities have appeared to me, to be "out of season," and yet 
 Friends appear to grant them with no other feeling than a 
 kind of complaisance to strangers. 
 
 Having been indisposed for more than a week, but feeling 
 a little revived, I left home on the fifth of twelfth month, and 
 went to my kind fi'iend Isaac Parry's, in order to attend Hor- 
 sham week-day meeting the next day, which I did ; and in the 
 afternoon met a committee of the quarterly meeting, on the 
 subject of considering the state of our religious society, in 
 relation to the increasingly frequent violations of the disci- 
 pline in the accomplishment of marriages. But no way opened 
 in the unity to propose a remedy. It is a mournful circum- 
 stance that our good and wholesome order on this important 
 subject should be so little observed by many young people, 
 and that many elder and active members should almost justify 
 them therein, by soliciting and readily accepting papers, that 
 do not amount to any acknowledgment of their violation of 
 the testimonies of Truth, recognised in our discipline on this 
 subject. 
 
 On seventh-day, the eighth of twelfth month, set out and 
 rode to Philadelphia. Lodged at my kind friend ^Y. Whar- 
 ton's, who had intended to accompany me, but his health was 
 such as rendered it improper. Next day attended Darby 
 meeting, and had some rather close labour, but felt peace 
 therein. In the evening, had an opportunity at John Hunt's, 
 with a number of Friends to satisfaction. A rheumatic affec- 
 tion in my hip was increasing; nevertheless, on second-day 
 
524 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1832. 
 
 morning the 10th, I set out in the carriage with John and 
 Rachel Hunt, on a visit to see Mary Lukens in Fallowfield, 
 and also to visit other places. As we rode on, the pain di- 
 minished. After stopping to take some refreshment at Jesse 
 Reese's, we went on to Jonathan Paxson's at Birmingham, and 
 lodged there. Next day called to see Jesse Kersey, and were 
 glad to find him more comfortable than some time past. He 
 appeared to possess his mental powers with considerable clear- 
 ness, and his bodily health improved. Thence went on, and 
 reached Daniel Lukens's near evening; found dear Mary much 
 better than we had anticipated. She had had but one para- 
 lytic affection, and was now restored to the possession of her 
 recollection and speech, so that her mind appeared comforta- 
 ble, although her lameness still affected one side, so that she 
 required assistance to walk about the house ; were much com- 
 forted in her company, and with the meekness and innocence 
 of her spirit, as also in witnessing the very kind attention of 
 her daughters. 
 
 On fourth-day went to Doe Run week-day meeting. It 
 was a comfortable meeting, but small, the day being very 
 wet. Dined with Jeremiah Bernard, Jun., where we had an 
 interesting opportunity in his family. Then returned to 
 Daniel Lukens's and lodged. Next day, attended Fallow- 
 field meeting; notice having been spread it was larger than 
 usual, but rather a laborious season on the whole, though 
 it ended to satisfaction. Lodged the ensuing night at James 
 Truman's, where we were kindly waited on by his grand- 
 daughter Phebe Coates, who evinced her love to Friends by 
 affectionate assiduity and graceful attention. 
 
 On sixth-day morning the 14th of twelfth month, with 
 Daniel Lukens and his daughter Hannah for our guides, we 
 set out for Waynesburg, to see S. L., who had lately resigned his 
 right of membership and left the Society of Friends. Be- 
 tween him and myself there had, ever since his joining Friends, 
 subsisted a brotherly intimacy and friendship, but now his 
 mind appeared to be very much unsettled; and though he 
 received us with hospitality, yet it was evident his love was 
 growing if not grown cold, for he not only refused to accom- 
 pany me to some neighbouring meetings, but even to attend 
 
Chap. XYI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 525 
 
 one appointed next day at Cambridge, in his own neighbour- 
 hood. I gave him some counsel, and left him Avith a heavy 
 heart on his own account, fully believing he is heaping up 
 trouble for himself. 
 
 ^Ye went on to Isaac Trego's to lodge, and in the evening 
 had a precious opportunity with the family, among whom 
 were several in poor health, and one of the sons appeared to 
 be going fast in a consumption. 
 
 On seventh-day, although wet and rainy, we had a meet- 
 ing at Cambridge. It was much larger than I had anticipated. 
 S. L. did not attend. It was a remarkably baptizing season, 
 the company seemed melted down like metal in the fire, and 
 one young man seemed as if he could not avoid weeping aloud. 
 Truth evidently made its way into many hearts, and a com- 
 fortable evidence was furnished, that the meeting will not be 
 hurt by the strange conduct of him who used to be like a 
 shepherd or caretaker of this little meeting. He now stays 
 at home, and has not attended any meeting for three months 
 past. His mind appears to be bewildered, and in him is pre- 
 sented a mournful instance of the effects of giving way to 
 gloomy feelings and discouraging views of the state of society, 
 till his mind has become clouded and his understanding dark- 
 ened. Ever since his return from Canada, in the spring of 
 1831, a difference in his conduct and carriage has been ob- 
 vious to Friends and neighbours about home, till in the 
 eighth month last he resigned his right of membership with 
 Friends, and the monthly meeting saw no better way than to 
 accept it in the eleventh month following. Alas ! for the seed 
 that falls on stony ground, when the stones are not gathered 
 off or removed from the soil of the mind : a withering in the 
 time of trial is the sad consequence. After meeting, John 
 Hunt and Rachel left me, and returned homeward. I re- 
 turned with D. Lurkins and daughter to Isaac Haines's, where 
 we tarried the night. Several young Friends gave us their 
 company in the evening, and the time passed in interesting 
 religious conversation, an unusual channel being opened in my 
 mind toward them. The opportunity closed with a communi- 
 cation, under, as I thought, gospel influence, that appeared to 
 fasten with deep instruction on some of their minds, show- 
 
526 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1832. 
 
 ing the safety and importance of their standing firm in the 
 principles and testimonies of Truth, unto which they were 
 called. 
 
 On first-day, the 15th, at a large meeting at Sadsbury, I 
 had an open time in the communication of gospel truths to an 
 attentive auditory. Dined and lodged at Levi Pownall's. 
 He and his wife came from Bucks county, and settled in this 
 neighboui^iood soon after their marriage. They are now well 
 stricken in years, being each near eighty, and although very 
 wealthy, yet live in a very plain, humble style, and love the 
 Truth, and those who live and walk in it. The teachable mind 
 gains some instruction by visiting the aged, as well as the 
 widows and fatherless in their afilictions. 
 
 On second-day, although a very rainy time, and the roads 
 difficult, we had a very crowded meeting in Friends' meeting- 
 house at Bart. It was a good meeting, and I hope spiritual 
 benefit resulted to minds present. Next day I was taken by 
 Isaac Walker in his chaise to a meeting at East Sadsbury, held 
 in a school-house. In this opportunity Divine Goodness was 
 eminently near, and baptized the meeting into its own name 
 or spirit. One man was noticed as a stranger, who at first, 
 by his deportment indicated a want of proper seriousness, 
 but soon manifested great interest in the communication, and 
 before I sat down he exhibited feelings of deep contrition and 
 tenderness. 
 
 Respecting Friends of Sadsbury and its neighbourhood, I 
 had felt some discouraging apprehensions in regard to the sup- 
 port of discipline, and the right management of the concerns 
 of society, knowing a spirit had been at work among them 
 that tended to scatter more than to gather ; and although this 
 evil spirit is not yet enough cast out, yet now, on mingling 
 with Friends in these meetings, the feelings of my mind were 
 encouraged and my belief renewed, to my comfort, that there 
 are a number of sincere-hearted members of this monthly 
 meeting who will be preserved in the support of the testimo- 
 nies of Truth ; and as they continue faithful to its discoveries, 
 an increase of unity will be felt among them, and a revival of 
 right order and zeal for the spreading of Truth will be expe- 
 rienced in and about Sadsbury. On fourth-day were at East 
 
Chap. XVI.] JOUUNAL OF JOHN COMLT, 527 
 
 Cain week-day meeting. Some notice having been spread, a 
 considerable meeting collected. Next day was at Uwchlan 
 week-day meeting, which was very small. In the afternoon 
 I Avas taken by Micajah Speakman to Joseph Hawlcy's, in the 
 neighbourhood of Bradford, where on sixth-day I had an ap- 
 pointed meeting, which was pretty large for these days ; yet 
 I am told that within the memory of persons now living, both 
 this and Uwchlan meeting, on common occasions, filled the 
 ground floor of the houses on first-days, each of which might 
 contain near three hundred people. Now, at either place, 
 there may not be more than fifty. The serious, thoughtful 
 mind is ready to inquire why it is so ? If the principles of 
 Friends are spreading in the world, which is fully believed, 
 how is it that their meetings are thus diminishing? Is there 
 not a cause ? Let individuals search it in and for themselves. 
 
 On seventh-day had- a very interesting and comfortable 
 meeting at Birmingham, and in company with Benjamin Price, 
 next day attended Middletown meeting. It was large, and the 
 word of gospel communication flowed toward an attentive com- 
 pany for about two hours. May it fasten as a nail in a sure 
 place. If Friends would set the example, others might follow 
 of meeting in the meeting-house. 1 was aff"ected at this place 
 with many standing out about the sheds, in companies, for a 
 long time before they came into the house, occasioning the 
 meeting to be long in gathering and settling into solemn still- 
 ness — the life and comfort of our assemblies ! Again, after 
 meeting, if less time were occupied in unnecessary conversation, 
 and remaining in companies in and about our meeting-houses, 
 it would not only be more becoming the occasion, but would 
 tend to the profit of those who may have had a good meeting, 
 by retaining those serious feelings and instructive impressions 
 which are often dissipated by free, social converse about worldly 
 matters. 
 
 In the evening we reached Darby, and thence I came home. 
 Found my family well, and was thankful for Divine care and 
 preservation over them and myself, during this little time of 
 separation from them. Since the loss of my beloved compa- 
 nion, I find it more trying to leave our dear children than when 
 
528 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1832. 
 
 I knew tliey were under her maternal and religious care, while 
 I was engaged abroad in the service of the gospel. 
 
 In this little journey I have been renewedly confirmed in 
 the belief, that with all the defects and blemishes of society- 
 Truth is still alive and on its way. A living remnant is pre- 
 served in most meetings, and light is rising in the minds of 
 the people. Oh ! the desires I feel that those who profess the 
 Truth, and have in a measure known its healing operations, 
 may go forward in the light of the Lord, advancing the testi- 
 monies of it with dignity, with consistency, and with clear- 
 ness, that they may be as " a city set on a hill." 
 
 I have often heard it remarked, and have sometimes felt the 
 force of the observation, that travelling Friends did not mix 
 enough with the younger part of society in their places of en- 
 tertainment, but that they generally went to certain places, 
 where they could find good accommodations, &c. In this 
 journey I was taken to the house of a Friend who said he had 
 seldom, if ever, had the opportunity of entertaining travelling 
 Friends before. He also adverted to the complaint just men- 
 tioned. But he was told that travelling Friends were often 
 entire strangers, and had no choice other than to be in the 
 neighbourhood of the meeting to be attended; that certain 
 places were known to have accommodations, and that such as 
 acted the part of pilots generally had the disposal of strangers 
 on such occasions. During my being at this Friend's house, 
 I several times proposed having a messenger sent about six 
 miles to carry a message to a Friend respecting my getting 
 along in my journey, and having a meeting appointed. But 
 he excused himself by saying his boys were small, and he had 
 no one to send. After lodging there, next morning I renewed 
 the request, and offered to pay a man if he could procure one 
 to perform this errand, but he again evaded it, and we went to 
 meeting. His boys appeared to be from fourteen to seventeen 
 years of age, and walked upward of two miles to meeting ; at 
 the close of which, being dependent on my friends for convey- 
 ance, I was left destitute of the means of getting on my jour- 
 ney, only for want of information having been sent on to a 
 Friend, now but four miles distant. Another more feeling 
 
Crap. XVI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 529 
 
 Friend was found who helped me forward there in the after- 
 noon. No comment is needful. 
 
 First month, 1833. — The 2d and 3d of this month I attend- 
 ed Horsham and Gwynedd monthly meetings to my satisfac- 
 tion. I believe there is a use in visiting neighbouring meet- 
 ings, especially those for discipline, without waiting or looking 
 for what some people call the"wog,"if they do not go. A 
 good servant is a willing servant, who stands ready to obey his 
 master's will, even when intimated by a look of the eye, or a 
 nod of the head, or a pointing of the finger — such a servant 
 does not hesitate and doubt, because he does not want to obey 
 until he is driven to his work by the terror of the rod of dis- 
 pleasure, or the woe. A gentle intimation, or feeling of pure 
 love, may be sufficient for some services, the degree of which 
 might not be as great as would be needful in cases of greater 
 magnitude. 
 
 In seventh month, 1834, our dear father opened to his monthly 
 meeting a concern to visit the Western country within the limits of 
 Ohio and Indiana Yearly Meetings. He received its concurrence, 
 was furnished with a minute thereof, and was accompanied by his 
 friend Benjamin Price. No record of this journey was kept, but the 
 following letters give an account of the accomplishment of this pros- 
 pect as far as way opened ; and portray the exercises and peculiar 
 circumstances attending it. 
 
 Near Bedford, Eighth Month 22d, 1834, 200 miles from home. 
 My dear Children: — After a very toilsome day's ride 
 of thirty-eight miles, most of the way over the mountains and 
 a rough turnpike, I sit down to write to you as requested. In 
 the first place, may tell you I am in good health, and have 
 endured riding beyond my expectation. Except this evening, 
 I have not been very much fatigued, and my lameness is much 
 better. Benjamin is also well, and very attentive and kind ; 
 I know not that I could have been better suited as to a com- 
 panion. The horses also, and the old carriage, hold out well. 
 The roads are very dusty, and much complaint of dry weather 
 
 almost all the way. In part of York county, and through 
 34 
 
530 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1834. 
 
 Adams county, the Indian corn has suffered much ; many 
 fields look as if they would not produce three bushels to the 
 acre. Wheat and oats crops have been generally good. In 
 many places no rain since harvest to wet the ground much. 
 To-day we have passed some high mountains, and have the 
 Alleghany ahead of us. When we called at Columbia, we 
 found the town in a state of much alarm, owing to the mob 
 the night before having attacked the poor coloured people, and 
 still threatening to go on. It was really dreadful to hear 
 their accounts. This is the third night we have put up at 
 taverns. Shortly after we got in here, a stage drove up, and 
 a young man came in the house for a drink of water. He 
 turned and looked at me with earnestness, then went to the 
 door, and came back and asked me if my name was John 
 Comly. On my answering him, he said he had a letter for 
 me from Doctor Parrish, that was put in his hands by the 
 Doctor the evening before last.* He gave it to me, then 
 jumped in the stage again and went on. He is a brother of 
 Peter Wright, going to Richmond, Indiana, where he resides. 
 Doctor Parrish, having heard of Asiatic cholera in the west- 
 ern country, kindly wrote a prescription of medicines, in case 
 we should be attacked with any of the premonitory symptoms. 
 We hear little about the cholera at the West, though have 
 some accounts of its being at Wheeling and Washington. I 
 shall avoid going to or through where it prevails, and hope 
 you will feel easy in the assurance that I shall take all due 
 care to preserve that inestimable blessing health, and I sin- 
 cerely wish and charge you to do so likewise ; also take 
 great care of the children and their health, especially now 
 that the evenings are cool and the middle of the day warm. 
 I often think of you with much interest and affection, and 
 am much concerned for your welfare. Dear little boys ! 
 
 * The closing paragraph of this letter, which was prompted by the purest 
 feelings of benevolence and Christian friendship, is here appended in its 
 beautiful simplicity : 
 
 " That the Shepherd of Israel, who I believe has put forth thyself and 
 companion in the present engagement, may lead you along in safety, and 
 permit you to return to the bosom of your families with the reward of peace, 
 is the earnest desire of thy affectionate friend, Jos. Parrish." 
 
Chap. XVI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 531 
 
 how I want to see them, as well as all of you. I suppose 
 three days more of toilsome travelling will bring us to Red- 
 stone, among Friends. I shall expect letters waiting for me 
 at Mount Pleasant by fourth or fifth-day next. Please be 
 particular about every thing that will be interesting to me, 
 and all about yourselves, home, and neighbourhood will be 
 so. We have met with no hindrance nor accident since 
 leaving home. My love to you all dearly; to neighbours and 
 friends as if named. 
 
 Affectionately your father, 
 
 J. COMLY. 
 
 23d, Morning. — Much refreshed by a good night's rest, 
 and our health mercifully preserved, we are journeying on. 
 Weather clear, cool, and dry among these mountains. Was 
 just now reminded of my dear little grandson " John Comly, 
 junior, of Byberry, Pennsylvania," (as he tells his name,) by 
 seeing a little fellow, just about his size, diverting himself by 
 throwing sticks, chips, or stones for a dog to bring back to 
 him, when an old man (perhaps his grandfather) came by and 
 severely scolded him, driving him into the house with harsh 
 words, and even threw a stone after him as if to frighten him. 
 I mentally exclaimed, with deep-felt commiseration for the 
 sufferings of innocence, " And is it thus, God ! that thy 
 image, stamped upon innocent children, is effaced, or oppressed 
 by cruelty, harshness, and severity, instead of being cherished, 
 nurtured, and preserved, by kindness, gentleness, and love ?" 
 And my heart was melted into compassion for the wide-spread 
 calamities and sufferings produced by a spirit of hardness, 
 contention, strife, and animosity among the members of the 
 human family. May you, my dear children, dwell in love, in 
 harmony, mutual kindness, tenderness, and brotherly love. 
 So wishes your dear father, John Comly. 
 
532 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1834. 
 
 Redstone, Eighth Month 26th, 1834. 
 
 My dear Children: — I wrote you, on our way over the 
 mountains near Bedford, -which perhaps you have received. 
 We are now at a Friend's house, in sight of Westland meet- 
 ing-house, where Benjamin is acquainted, having been here 
 before, when in this country with Edward Hicks, about four 
 years ago. We are resting here to-day, having travelled over 
 very rough, hilly, and mountainous roads since I last wrote, 
 and are pretty well fatigued. To-morrow we expect to set 
 out for Mount Pleasant, Ohio, about sixty miles from here, 
 and shall hope to have the consolation of meeting letters from 
 you there on our arrival. I learn that it takes three days for 
 a letter to go from here to Philadelphia ; of course this will 
 reach you, if not detained, next seventh-day evening. We 
 are still preserved in health, though we hear of sickness in 
 divers places in this western country ; in some places dysen- 
 tery, and others some cases of cholera, though the latter is 
 supposed to be subsiding. The weather has been clear, and 
 cool mornings, till we crossed the Alleghany mountains ; then, 
 on first-day morning, a fog, succeeded by dark clouds, appear- 
 ing to threaten rain all day, but none fell ; the wind north-west. 
 We were told there had been several frosts last week on the 
 mountains. I have carefully watched the peach trees, orchards, 
 and woods ; and, except two peaches on a tree at Lampeter, 
 and a few pears, one apple on a tree on the mountains near 
 Bedford, and two chestnut burrs, I have not seen fruit or 
 nuts of any kind growing, although the peach and apple 
 trees appear very thrifty, the frosts last spring were so 
 general. 
 
 I believe I may say our health, and every thing else with 
 us, is as well as we could expect after so tedious and rough a 
 journey. Indeed I have stood it remarkably, and I trust I 
 feel thankful to the Preserver of men for his manifold favours. 
 My rheumatism is not so trying as it was a few weeks ago, 
 and I endeavour to take all due care to preserve my health. 
 You, and my neighbours and friends at home, are much the 
 objects of my thoughts, and my warmest solicitations are on 
 your accounts. There is very little in this world worth our 
 close attachment, or to absorb our minds so as to induce us to 
 
Chap. XVI.] JOURNAL OF JOILN COMLY. 533 
 
 neglect preparing for a better. Yet our duties must be ful- 
 filled here, as a part of that preparation. One of the most 
 important of these is to love one another. Dear children, 
 live in love ; you have known much of this precious feeling, 
 and I wish nothing may ever, for one moment, be suffered to 
 supplant it in your minds. Live uprightly ; be good exam- 
 ples in all things to those around you. Never be ashamed to 
 be known as John Comly's children, in language, dress, or 
 manners. But you know my mind. A kiss to dear little 
 John and Edward. Don't let them forget grandfather ; take 
 good care of them and of yourselves. I must close this, with 
 love unabated, undiminished by time or distance, to you all ; 
 to the boys, and Rachel and Maria ; to uncles, aunts, and 
 cousins. Let me know particularly how every one is, and all 
 that is going on. My love also to all the neighboui's who feel 
 an interest in your affectionate father, 
 
 J. COMLY. 
 
 Near Mount Pleasant, Eighth Month 29th, 1834. 
 
 My dear Children : — Yesterday we arrived at Mount 
 Pleasant, Ohio. Stopped at the post-office, but found no let- 
 ters. To-day have discovered that the mail comes but once a 
 week, on fourth-days only; so that I must fast till the middle 
 of next week. We are well in health, but my spirits are a 
 good deal depressed ; yet we have much, very much to be 
 thankful for, especially that we have been preserved through 
 this long journey of three hundred and seventy-five miles 
 without accident or hindrance, our horses good, even, and 
 true, and have agreed, like the travellers, without a jar. Ben- 
 jamin is an excellent companion. I know not that I could 
 have a better. I love him much. He is kind and very 
 attentive. 
 
 If I tell you that for some days past, and especially since I 
 came here, my prospect of religious service in this western 
 country has very much closed, you need not build too much on 
 my speedy return ; although, if it should not open by the 
 close of Yearly Meeting next week, I shall look pretty strongly 
 toward home. I have had a poor appetite for near a week 
 
534 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1834. 
 
 past, till to-day. It is now pretty good, and I have had a 
 drink of good water, a favour that I have not partaken of for 
 more than a week past. Indeed I have had to get along with- 
 out drinking any at all for about that length of time, on 
 account of having nothing but limestone water to drink. We 
 dined with Elisha Dawson to-day, and saw Grriffith Street, for- 
 merly of Byberry. He is now near eighty, and has been in 
 this neighbourhood sixteen years. Last evening Isaac Tom- 
 linson called to see us. He appears to be a nice Friend. 
 William Plumley lives some distance, and Thomas Wilson has 
 removed about eight miles off. The country about Redstone 
 is the most hilly I ever saw ; steep pitches, several hundred 
 feet, into deep short valleys, then up again. Here it is also 
 hilly, but not so broken. We crossed Ohio at Wellsburg, 
 above Wheeling, and followed the river several miles, then 
 ascended a hill, steep and stony, for about a mile. I suppose 
 its perpendicular height could not be less than five or six hun- 
 dred feet, and its sides steep as the roof of a house, that 
 looked awful, and enough to make some people's heads swim 
 to look down into the huge valleys or chasms below. We tra- 
 velled four or five miles on the ridge, which gradually spread 
 into an extended rich country, round about Mount Pleasant, a 
 smart town. The soil appears rich and fertile, the timber 
 large, and the corn and grass much like ours. Morella cherry 
 trees look very thrifty, without knots here. Other fruit trees 
 look well, but no fruit. In one of our provender bags, not 
 opened till we got here, (the contents of the other we had 
 eaten,) we found a, pear! a great rarity here. We presented 
 it to our kind young friend Hannah Griffith, wife of Samuel 
 Griffith, at whose house we lodge, about two miles from Mount 
 Pleasant town. I must go back to relate an incident that 
 brought Jiome and my dear little grandson John to my recol- 
 lection with the keenest sensibility. 
 
 At the tavern where we put up night before last, lodged a 
 man and his wife and three children, travellers, quite decent- 
 looking people. The parents were very much fatigued, but 
 the three children as lively as ever John, George, and Newby 
 were, in the evening. Next morning, soon after I awoke, 
 (as they lodged in an adjoining room,) I heard the dreadful 
 
Chap. XVI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 535 
 
 croup cough. The little boy, about three or four years old, 
 seemed strangling with croup for some time, perhaps near a 
 quarter of an hour. He got over it in less than half an 
 hour ; at least better, so that they went on. It roused all 
 the recollections of that awful night, never to be forgotten, 
 when dear little John was rescued from the very jaws of this 
 painful death, through the mercy of our gracious, heavenly 
 Father. Oh! may we never forget it; never cease to feel 
 gratitude for the inestimable favour of Divine mercy to our 
 afflicted minds. My eyes fill with tears even now in recurring 
 to it. But, dear children, all of you, consider it a sacred 
 duty to preserve health, while we have it mercifully granted 
 to us. Take care of your health and the health of the chil- 
 dren. Oh ! guard those dear little boys, John and Eddy, 
 from all harm and dangers, as much as you can — both bodily 
 and mental harms and exposures. I want to know how they 
 and you are, especially Eddy's health, (dear little fellow,) and 
 his dear, mother. Oh ! be careful of yourselves ; the health 
 of your bodies and minds preserve by all due watchful- 
 ness and attention ; then may you humbly confide in the pro- 
 tecting care of your heavenly Father, and he will never 
 forsake you. 
 
 30th. Another fair morning, with south wind, has dawned 
 upon the hills of Ohio ; and we are in good health, after a 
 comfortable night's rest, for which favour my heart is grateful 
 to the Preserver of men. And notwithstanding I feel much 
 as yesterday, I am endeavouring to learn contentment, in the 
 belief that I have done the best I knew in coming here. May 
 you, dear children, be willing to resign me and all you have 
 to the Divine disposal; and as you learn submission to the 
 cross, or yoke of necessary restraint upon the passions, in- 
 clinations, and self-will of the creature, you will witness more 
 and more of the sweet incomes of heavenly consolation in all 
 your trials and difficulties. I feel tenderly with you and for 
 you, now motherless, and as it were fatherless children. But 
 I trust you know where and to whom to look for counsel, sup- 
 port, and direction in all your ways. Oh ! may you be fre- 
 quent in waiting upon and asking counsel and wisdom of that 
 Wonderful Counsellor who is a father to the fatherless, and 
 
536 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1834. 
 
 who will be found of all who seek him in sincerity and humility 
 of soul. 
 
 This morning, on awaking and affectionately remembering 
 you all, with desires that in all things you may act circum- 
 spectly during my absence, a thought occurred that I would 
 almost rather die and be buried in Ohio, than that any of my 
 children should do any thing that might wound my peace, or 
 be a discredit to the blessed Truth, or dishonourable to their 
 parents. But I am comforted in the hope that your affec- 
 tionate regard and interest in my welfare and comfort, as well 
 as the sense of propriety and rectitude in your own minds, 
 will, in all cases, induce you to walk circumspectly, to live in 
 mutual love, and to maintain peace and harmony with all your 
 relations and neighbours. My love' flows affectionately to my 
 dear, afl^icted sister, your Aunt Martha ; and I want you to 
 be properly attentive to her and your Cousin Lydia, in their 
 feeble state of health. My love also to her, Cousin Isaac and 
 Uncle Evan ; also to all your uncles, aunts, and cousins, and 
 neighbours generally. To me, at this distance, the feeling of 
 love to my dear friends and relatives at home may be much 
 more intense by reason of the separation from them, and 
 from other objects of enjoyment or amusement. But I will 
 not particularize names ; only saying that divers little pre- 
 sents, even a spectacle case, and divers acts of interesting 
 kindness and accommodation for my comfort, &c., are now 
 the precious remembrancers of the donors, and the dear 
 friends left at home. 
 
 31st. First-day afternoon. — Have attended Select Yearly 
 Meeting since writing the above. E. W. was there ; also at 
 their very large public meeting at Mount Pleasant, this morn- 
 ing. He spoke twice. There I saw William Rich, and 
 several other acquaintances. I cannot yet say where you 
 may direct letters. I see no way open beyond this Yearly 
 Meeting, and it may close next fifth or sixth-day. Should I 
 remain in this state of feeling, with the concern all closed up 
 
Chap. XVI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 537 
 
 till then, I believe I shall turn homeward. B. and I arc both 
 well. No cholera about or near here that we hear of. If you 
 write, direct to " care of Thomas Wilson, near St. Clairsville, 
 Ohio." 
 
 Farewell in pure love. John Comly. 
 
 Mount Pleasant, Ohio, Ninth month 4th, 1834. 
 
 My dear Children : — Yearly Meeting has just closed, 
 and 'tis now near night. Your letter of last first-day week 
 came to hand yesterday afternoon only. It was very accept- 
 able and satisfactory, except the account of dear little Eddy 
 being more poorly. Dear little fellow ! and must I never see 
 him again ? Please do all you can ; and if needful, consult 
 another doctor, that if any thing can be done to save his pre- 
 cious life it may, without improper delay, if he is yet with 
 you. I have shed many tears on his account. Perhaps I 
 loved him too much. But parental afiection will feel ; and at 
 this great distance, where I find very little to divert my atten- 
 tion or amuse me, I feel much. My prayers are, that you, 
 with myself, may labour after resignation, if Heaven sees 
 meet to take him from us now, in perfect innocence. Dear 
 little innocent fellow, how I have loved him ! But I have 
 loved you all with a father's love ; and for you a father's 
 prayers and a father's tears have been poured out before Him 
 who sees in secret. May he hold you all in his holy hand, 
 who has loved you and still loves you. 
 
 Since I last wrote I have been looking toward Indiana 
 Yearly Meeting, and ardently desiring to know whether it 
 was right for me to attend it. Last night, thinking of this 
 subject and of you, I slept but little. This morning I 
 thought the way seemed a little more open to go two hundred 
 and forty miles to Richmond, Indiana, to attend said meeting; 
 but this afternoon it is all gone, and a kind of total eclipse 
 seems spread over it, and over every other prospect of religious 
 service in this land. If I have had any service of that kind 
 here, it has been under humbling, very humbling circum- 
 stances ; for I know not that I have ever been baptized into 
 
538 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1834. 
 
 a state of deeper suffering and humiliation than for near two 
 weeks past. 
 
 5th. After a comfortable night's rest, except being awake 
 about an hour, occasioned by a thunder shower, a fine rain 
 and refreshing — I feel very well this morning, and quite calm 
 and composed in mind. My exercises seem much past, and I 
 feel resigned to go wherever Truth opens the way. Friends 
 have called on me to know my prospects, and some seem 
 afraid I am under discouragements. But I tell them no, I am 
 not discouraged. I only want to know what is right and am 
 willing to do it. So they advise me to wait in patience, and 
 be not in haste to conclude. In taking this advice, I may 
 wait here several days, more particularly as Benjamin wants 
 to get letters by next fourth-day's mail ; otherwise I should 
 be ready to set off homeward to-day. But if, in patiently 
 waiting a few days, the prospect should open for further ser- 
 vice here, in Indiana, or elsewhere, I shall write you again 
 and let you know. I see not how you can direct a letter to 
 meet me anywhere that I can now mention, such being my 
 views, and feeling my mind so at liberty to return to you. 
 My love to all. 'Tis very warm here. Day before yesterday 
 a small shower, the first we have seen since leaving home. 
 Benjamin is well. Farewell. I intend WTiting again. 
 
 Yours affectionately, John Comly. 
 
 Near Mount Pleasant, Ohio, Ninth month 9th, 1834. 
 
 My dear Children : — Since my last letter to you, written 
 last fifth and sixth-days, we have remained in this neighbour- 
 hood, waiting the coming of to-morrow's mail, and also to 
 know the mind of Truth whether to come home or go on our 
 journey to Indiana, &c. We are both very well, and have 
 good, regular appetites. I hardly feel that I am lame at all, 
 my rheumatism being so much better ; however, I have very 
 little walking to do to try me. On first-day last we attended 
 a little meeting within a quarter of a mile, and it rained so 
 fast that we rode in the carriage. It was a very rainy day ; 
 and since the moon changed there has been rain nearly every 
 
Chap. XVI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 539 
 
 day — some liard showers, with thunder and a good deal of 
 lightnins;. 
 
 My dear A.'s account of the occm-rences of a long week 
 was gratifying. The time since I left you seems more like 
 three months to me than three tveeJcs ; but I am trying to 
 learn contentment. Home, dear home, however, "draws on 
 me" (as Job Scott said) "like cart ropes." My lameness 
 is so much better, I believe I shall have no need of the 
 "royal rest," and therefore accept the proposal as an evi- 
 dence of filial aflfection. I was much pleased to hear of 
 C. getting safely home from B. P.'s, for I thought a good 
 deal about him during the day. 
 
 I feel a hope that you have had plenty of rain before this 
 time, as the weather has changed so much here. It is now 
 growing cooler, but has been very warm, particularly about 
 the middle of last week. 
 
 The orthodox Yearly Meeting is held this week, at Mount 
 Pleasant. They have Henry Hull, Hinchman Haines, and 
 Jonathan Backhouse, among them ; and they are very nu- 
 merous. Some of them call here to see their relatives, 
 Samuel and Hannah Griffith, where we lodge. We have now 
 been five days lying on our oars, as the saying is ; and the 
 time seems to me very long. I have thought of early Friends 
 when cast into prisons, in the days of persecution, and how 
 they spent their time. Sometimes they wrote ; but I have 
 felt much shut up from writing or conversation. I hope, 
 however, to see a way clear to move or do something by the 
 time I get your letters. Please be extremely careful of the 
 fires, day and night, and of the lights, especially when used 
 in the upper chambers. Do be careful also of the children, 
 as the weather becomes cooler mornings and evenings ; 
 muslin or cotton clothes are so very liable to catch fire, even 
 from a spark. Dear little John will require increasing care, 
 to preserve him from all hurts, harms, and dangers ; also his 
 sweet little brother, if spared to live yet longer. Yet, though 
 I feel concerned for their and your preservation, health, and 
 safety, I know and believe you are all under the notice and 
 care of a heavenly Father, who loves you ; and I want you, 
 above all things, to remember and love him, and daily so live 
 
540 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1834. 
 
 in obedience to his requirings that his blessing may rest upon 
 you. I want you to give more attention to reading the Scrip- 
 tures and Friends' books ; and I want my dear little John to 
 be more attended to in learning his letters. How it would 
 rejoice me, when I come home, to find he knew them all, and 
 could begin to spell. A little care every day would soon bring 
 him on, for he does not lack capacity for a child not yet three 
 years old. Dont spoil him, or let him learn bad habits, or 
 words, or to say you to a single person. You have all need 
 to walk very circumspectly before him, as well as before the 
 other children under your care. Tell John his grandfather 
 loves him, though a great way off, and wants him to be a good 
 boy. Please dont let him go near the horses, nor climb too 
 much. You must excuse my parental care and solicitude, if 
 I am too particular. I cannot help feeling concerned for you 
 all. Oh ! may you all be kept as in the pavilion of Almighty 
 protection and care. Let all your conduct and movements be 
 ordered and governed by prudence and discretion ; and seek 
 and pray for Divine direction to guide you aright, and pre- 
 serve you in the way that is well-pleasing in the sight of 
 Heaven. 
 
 Fourth-day afternoon, ninth month 10th. — After again sit- 
 ting with Friends in their small week-day meeting, at Short 
 Creek, near our lodgings, we dined at a Friend's house near 
 by, where a number of others came to see us. About four 
 o'clock, Isaac Tomlinson's son Aaron brought our letters 
 from the post-office. I looked at the post-marks and dates 
 of two from my dear home, and first opened the one marked 
 "Byberry, ninth month 4th;" when my eye immediately met 
 the mournful tidings that my dear, my precious little darling 
 Eddy was gone. I closed the letter and withdrew from the 
 company. My heart was afi'ected deeply ; my eyes could not 
 contain their crystal treasures. It was some time before I 
 could summon fortitude and composure enough to read the 
 whole account of the dear little creature's sickness and peace- 
 ful close. " Jesus wept," and we may weep when called upon 
 to part with those we love. Yet, dear children, let us humbly 
 acquiesce in the all-wise disposal of unerring Providence. The 
 dear little innocent lamb is gathered to the everlasting fold of 
 
Chap. XVI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 541 
 
 rest, in perfect purity and peace. He is safe beyond the reach 
 of pain or trouble. He is taken from a world of snares and 
 dangers, and now enjoys angelic happiness among the spirits 
 of the blest. 'Tis our lot to mourn. May we be preserved 
 from murmuring or repining ; and in due time all-gracious 
 Goodness will administer the balm of consolation to our 
 wounded or bereaved spirits. I doubly feel with you, and 
 especially his dear parents. If I could fly to you, I would 
 soon mingle sympathies in person ; but as it is, can only 
 faintly say on paper what my full heart feels. I hope ere 
 this you have received my last, written in part last fifth-day, 
 after the receipt of jour fi^st, giving the afilicting information 
 of the dear little creature's being worse. I then suffered 
 nearly all the pangs of parting with him ; but still I hoped 
 he might be spared a little longer. On this hope I have tried 
 to rest, and therefore have alluded to him in the fore-part of 
 this letter ; which, thus explained, you will please excuse. But 
 dear little John remains, artless, unconscious of bis loss ; poor 
 dear little fellow, how I love him ! I know not which of them 
 I loved most. They were closely entwined in the affections 
 of my heart. They were beloved as you, my own children. 
 But I must stop ; 'tis nearly dark. I have read yours dated 
 27th, also one from W. W. and his D., all gratefully received. 
 This morning the prospect had so far opened of going to In- 
 diana, that I mentioned it to Benjamin, leaving the conclusion 
 till we heard from home. As I do not see that I could be of 
 any use to you by coming home now, other than to mingle 
 with you in sympathy ; and as I am now here, I believe it 
 will bo best to try to perform the service required of me in 
 this land, so as when I return, to do it with a peaceful mind. 
 Shall therefore, if nothing occur to prevent, set out to-morrow 
 morning for Richmond, Indiana, about two hundred and fifty 
 miles. Yearly meeting will begin there on seventh-day week, 
 20th of ninth month. It will take about three weeks to go 
 there and get back here. If you write immediately on receiv- 
 ing this, and direct to "Richmond, Indiana," a letter may 
 reach me about the close of the Yearly Meeting. Though I 
 see but little ahead, my prospect is, if spared to get to Rich- 
 mond, and favoured to sit Yearly Meeting there, we shall then 
 
542 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1834. 
 
 bend our course pretty directly homeward. But I intend 
 writing often, so that you may hear from me, if I do not hear 
 from you. 
 
 11th of ninth month. — Both in good health, this morning. 
 Weather clear and cool. We are now preparing to set out 
 from here for Richmond. The messages of love, the kind 
 remembrance of neighbours and friends, as well as their atten- 
 tion to you all in the season of close trial and affliction dis- 
 pensed to you, is grateful to my best feelings. My love flows 
 to them all as if named. To uncles, aunts, and cousins, all. 
 If I begin to mention names, I know not where to stop ; I 
 will therefore say with heartfelt truth, "to all inquiring 
 friends." Benjamin sends his love to you all, and to Charles 
 and D. A. particularly. He feels much with you on the occa- 
 sion of parting with dear, dear little Eddy. May the Holy 
 Comforter be your consolation and preserver. With love and 
 tender affection to you all, increased, if possible, by absence 
 and distance, I am your father, 
 
 John Comly. 
 
 St. Clairsville, Oliio, ninth month 12th, 1834. 
 
 My dear Friends W. and D. F. W., and dear Chil- 
 dren : — Only yesterday I wrote you, mentioning a little 
 opening that I thought presented of going to Indiana Yearly 
 Meeting ; and on that prospect we set out, travelled till night, 
 and put up at a tavern. My pensive, gloomy feelings increased 
 till evening, when my distress and exercise were such that I 
 believed it unsafe to go any farther. The prospect of Indi- 
 ana seemed again so closed up, that no way appeared to open 
 to go forward. I communicated my views and feelings to 
 Benjamin, whose sympathy was consoling to my mind. We 
 went to bed, and I got a pretty good sleep, probably for an 
 hour or two ; then lay awake, I suppose several hours, en- 
 deavouring to seek right direction. This morning we turned 
 about, and a quiet calm has since clothed my mind. We have 
 now been more than a week waiting, and all my prospects of 
 further religious service in this land having so closed up, I 
 believe it safe to look homeward. We shall try to reach 
 
Chap. XVI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 543 
 
 Westland to-morrow, and if health continue, which we now 
 enjoy, we may travel on toward home next week. I write to 
 give you this view that you need not send letters to Richmond, 
 as I proposed. But I should be glad to meet letters at York 
 on our return there. Yesterday my appetite failed a little, 
 and I feel a little unwell to-day, but nothing to prevent travel- 
 ling. My dear love to you all, and every one as if named. 
 Affectionately yours, 
 
 J. COMLY. 
 
 Dunning's Creek, Bedford County, Pa., Ninth Month 18th, 1834. 
 
 Again I resume the pen to let my dear children know where 
 and how I am, and also my prospects, if life and health are 
 continued. 
 
 We crossed the ridge of the great Alleghany the day before 
 yesterday, and are now privileged to drink clear, good water. 
 But I find it needful to be cautious. Never, I believe, have 
 I more highly valued, nor more gratefully enjoyed the inesti- 
 mable blessing of health. Never have I more thankfully con- 
 sidered the privileges, the favours, and mercies daily continued 
 to be dispensed to me. It has been a humbling season to 
 my mind since I left you; and however my prospect of reli- 
 gious labours in the western country have all been closed, and 
 the will resigned been accepted instead of the work, I have 
 felt, and do feel a calm, tranquil, and peaceful mind, in look- 
 ing back at the course I have pursued. I passed through much 
 Buffering and great exercise before I opened the concern to 
 you, or to Friends, but it is all past. And now, since I left 
 home, I have suffered much. Added to my mental trials, has 
 also been the deep affliction of the removal of my dear, per- 
 haps too dearly loved little Eddy. But he is happy, and I 
 humbl}'- hope all my trials, and all your trials may be wisely 
 improved, to wean us from earth's delusive snares and plea- 
 sures ; and thus become, under the Divine sanctifying, refin- 
 ing hand, a means of preparing us for joining his dear, happy, 
 
544 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1824. 
 
 innocent spirit, with that of your dear mother, and the right- 
 eous of all generations in a state of bliss beyond the reach of 
 trouble or disquietude. 
 
 Last first-day we had a large and highly favoured meeting 
 at Westland, and another in the afternoon at Brownsville or 
 Redstone, since which have been travelling to this place. 
 
 My love is affectionately to you all. 
 
 But I hope soon to see you all, and peacefully enjoy the 
 society of those, increasingly dear to me by absence and 
 distance. 
 
 Yours in love, 
 
 John Comly." 
 
 The minute granted for the performance of the preceding service 
 was returned to the monthly meeting in the ninth month, and in the 
 eleventh month following, another was obtained for making a general 
 visit to the meetings of Friends composing our Yearly Meeting. 
 During the early part of the prosecution of this religious service, 
 which for the space of two years called our dear father frequently 
 from home, he had to feel in double measure a parent's anxieties and 
 responsibilities, attendant upon the marriage and settlement of two 
 of his children. 
 
 In the eleventh month, 1836, he obtained the concurrence of his 
 friends, and a minute for attending the quarterly meetings of Notting- 
 ham and Warrington and the meetings composing them. This ser- 
 vice was accomplished and the minute returned to the next monthly 
 meeting. 
 
 In sixth month, 1837, a minute was granted him to attend some 
 meetings in New Jersey; also some in Bucks, Concord, and Phila- 
 delphia quarters, which service was performed, and the minute re- 
 turned in the first month, 1838. 
 
 Fifth month first, 1838, he was furnished with a minute for attend- 
 ing New York Yearly Meeting, which was returned to the next 
 monthly meeting. In reference to the performance of this duty, he 
 says in a letter to a friend, " I feel well satisfied of having been in 
 the line of my duty, and generally attentive to the voice of the 
 
Chap. XVI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 545 
 
 Shepherd. Mj health aud spirits were renewed, and I thought it 
 the best Yearly Meeting I ever attended in New York." 
 
 In the fifth month, 1842, on opening the concern to his monthly 
 meetino- with the unity thereof, a minute was furnished for his at- 
 tendance of Genesee Yearly Meeting. Of the discharge of which 
 service the following account is recorded. 
 
 NARRATIVE OF A JOURNEY TO ATTEND GENESEE YEARLY 
 MEETING, 1842. 
 
 Havino; felt some drawings of concern to attend Genesee 
 Yearly Meeting of Friends held at Farmington in New York 
 State, I opened the same to Friends at our monthly meeting 
 in the fifth month, and obtained a minute of concurrence. An 
 unusual weight of exercise attended my mind on this occasion ; 
 but whether it arose from some recent and very close trials, 
 or from anticipations of some unknown future conflicts and 
 deep baptisms, was to me vailed in clouds, perhaps a combina- 
 tion of both might have produced the feelings of deep exercise 
 alluded to. It was, however, a profitable state of preparation, 
 in which the creature was deeply humbled. After meeting, 
 a Friend from a neighbouring meeting alluded to a very try- 
 ing state of things among Friends of that Yearly Meeting. 
 This was the first hint I had received of any difficulty among 
 them, and it did not relieve or diminish the gloom that covered 
 my spirit. 
 
 On the 6th of sixth month, I attended a committee of our 
 quarter, appointed to consider whether improvement could not 
 be made in the manner of holding and conducting said meet- 
 ing. Here some views were opened to my understanding on 
 the nature and objects of holding quarterly meetings, that 
 they should be select for members only; and that, after a 
 solemn pause, so as to become gathered in spirit, to a state of 
 rencAved feeling of our dependence on Divine influence, for 
 qualification to transact the proper business of such meetings, 
 Friends should quietly proceed with the concerns that might 
 come before them, without distm-bance or being diverted by 
 35 
 
546 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1842. 
 
 external objects. For this purpose, it would be better to 
 meet with the partition closed between men and women, and 
 if any thing was said in either apartment during this solemn 
 pause, it would be likely to be brief and edifying, if in right 
 order. Thus, while the spirits of Friends were fresh and 
 lively, the important business of the quarterly meeting might 
 receive weighty and deliberate attention, to the mutual help 
 and benefit of the members present and absent. The state 
 of society might be felt after, and help administered where 
 needed; the weak and weary might be encouraged; and far 
 greater benefit might result to society from these institutions, 
 than appears to be the case in the present mode of holding 
 quarterly meetings among us. To hold a public meeting first, 
 in which much of a general or diffusive character is often 
 communicated by way of preaching, and then break up the 
 meeting by closing the partitions, after two hours or more 
 thus spent, however good it may have been, often lands a 
 meeting in an exhausted unsettled state: and in this condi- 
 tion, the business of the quarterly meeting has to be done or 
 gone through somehow; and thus by grasping at two objects 
 at the same time. Friends slide into a habit of superficiality, 
 and little real benefit is derived from either. 
 
 On the 7th, I set out for Farmington, in company with 
 my brother Joseph, to go by public conveyance, the shortness 
 of time not admitting of going in a private carriage, so as to 
 reach the Yearly Meeting timely. Yet I cannot say I feel 
 perfectly satisfied with this hasty way of travelling by steam, 
 when going on religious concerns. The characteristic of a 
 believer is deliberation not haste ; and though this applies to 
 mind, yet external circumstances often affect the state of the 
 mind. My pensive feelings, and the burden of exercise con- 
 nected with this concern, left me little inclination for social 
 enjoyment or much external observation. 
 
 About five hours brought us to New York, and we soon 
 reached the house of William and Caroline Seaman, and were 
 kindly and comfortably entertained, and lodged there. 
 
 Next day, the 8th, we took steamboat for Albany, one hun- 
 dred and sixty miles, and thence to Troy, where we lodged at 
 Nathaniel Starbuck's, and were kindly welcomed. Passed 
 
Chap. XYI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 547 
 
 the day in much silence and thoughtful ness, feeling little dis- 
 position for social converse till evening, -when some subjects 
 of interest and instruction were introduced. 
 
 9th. Arose early; very rainy, took stage to Schenectady 
 sixteen miles, to meet the railroad cars. Here a scene of 
 confusion occurred in changing passengers and getting seats 
 in the cars. Hurry, noise, commotion, with many idle specta- 
 tors, rendered it a place unfit for retired quiet minds, and un- 
 favourable for the growth of goodness. And must the busy 
 world be thus driven as it were headlong in the hurry of busi- 
 ness and the love of money? Can it be consistent with 
 Divine order, that rational beings should be subject to such 
 confusion and haste ? But so it is, in the worldly wisdom and 
 contrivance, many things are invented and used without much 
 reference to the Divine Superintendent. Yet he mercifully 
 cares for his heedless children, and preserves them when they 
 think little of his providential care. We took our seats in 
 the cars, and reached Syracuse, a town that has risen up with 
 rapid growth on the borders of the great Western canal, ex- 
 hibiting the spirit of vanity, pride, and wealth in the construc- 
 tion of what people call elegant buildings and improvements. 
 Here also the bustle and hurry of business appeared to be 
 such, that "the son of man hath not where to lay his head" 
 in quietness and peace. We left the railroad and entered 
 a packet-boat on the canal, to go on to Palmyra seventy miles. 
 Our company were now crowded into a narrow boat, and so 
 thronged that all could not find seats. Several Friends from 
 Darby; also several from New York, Rahway and Phila- 
 delphia, with my brother and myself, were added to the usual 
 amount of travellers. 
 
 Our crowded condition in the boat, being about fifty, pre- 
 cluded much rest or sleep, and the night being rainy, as also 
 the next morning, our situation was not enviable; but during 
 the forenoon some interesting subjects of conversation were 
 discussed, in which a Presbyterian delegate from Buffalo 
 took an active part. He appeared to be a candid, intelligent, 
 and inquiring man, very open and liberal in his remarks and 
 views, and desirous of understanding Friends' principles. 
 
 10th. Between eleven and twelve o'clock, we landed at a 
 
548 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1842. 
 
 place called Macedon Locks, three miles west of Palmyra, 
 and lience dispersed to various places. The Darby com- 
 pany and my brother and self went to Farrington Price's, 
 near the place of landing. He was son-in-law to Sarah Un- 
 derwood, and with Jane his wife kindly gave us dinner, and 
 we passed the rest of this rainy day with them. Weariness 
 and fatigue are often depressing to the animal spirits without 
 much mental exercise; and a renewed attack of neuralgia 
 but added to the weight of my silent feelings of deep baptism. 
 A tolerable night's repose, however, was somewhat exhilarat- 
 ing ; and after breakfast I was taken in a carriage with several 
 other Friends, about three miles, to Durfee Herendeen's, where 
 our lodging was to be. Here we met with Elizabeth Newport 
 and Ann Longstreth, who had come on in private carriage by 
 way of Friendsville and other places. 
 
 After a short stay here, we set out on seventh-day morning 
 to attend the opening of the select Yearly Meeting of minis- 
 ters and elders held at Farmington, about five or six miles 
 distant. The weather was quite cold, so as to need good fires 
 and upper coats. About thirty to forty men and not so many 
 women attended, including fifteen strangers with minutes. 
 To my perception the exercise of the meeting was not at all 
 lively. I saw no open door to cast off the burden of my con- 
 cern, so remained silent. It had been impressed on my mind 
 in the morning, and remained with me as an important lesson 
 to be learned, to come to understand rightly the mystery of 
 silent suffering for the cause and testimony of Truth. "As 
 a sheep dumb before her shearers, so he opened not his mouth ;" 
 and again, "He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he 
 opened not his mouth." This lesson is sometimes hard for 
 human nature to learn. Creaturely activity, even in a refined 
 mind, is apt to seek relief from sufiering by the expression of 
 words ; to endeavour to throw off the burden before the time, 
 as if it could do something thereby to forward the Lord's 
 work. Ah ! how abundant is this activity now among Friends ! 
 and professedly for advancing the testimonies of Truth ! Of 
 all the families of the earth. Friends should understand this 
 mystery of silent suffering in lamb-like meekness, when not 
 Divinely called and qualified for active vocal service. 
 
Chap. XYI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 549 
 
 The Yearly Meeting for business opened on second-day 
 morning about eleven o'clock, and was a trying season 
 throughout the sitting. 
 
 Third-day morning, at eight o'clock, was an adjournment 
 of the Yearly Meeting of ministers and elders, in which, feel- 
 ing my mind deeply baptized into concern in relation to the 
 ministry and the order of society for the preservation of the 
 living, sound, and gathering ministry of the gospel, I rose 
 early and called the attention of Friends to the subject. 
 When I sat down, a young minister arose, one of their mem- 
 bers, and spoke at length, giving his views on the subject of 
 the ministry ; and it seemed to me that my concern was all 
 swept oflf by the wind, though I afterward had some evidence 
 to the contrary. 
 
 On the subject of meetings of ministers and elders, much 
 diversity of opinion prevails among the members of this 
 Yearly Meeting, arising as a branch of the tree of popular 
 reform. But it is a superficial spirit that would throw off all 
 restraint, and order, and discipline. Much mixture of crea- 
 turely activity is already interspersed among the ministry, 
 even of many who are said to be in unity with Friends. The 
 lecturing, wordy spirit of the times has affected even the pro- 
 fessed gospel ministry of our societ3^ But, alas ! what can 
 be expected, when ministers do not think a renewed qualifica- 
 tion of Divine ability necessary for the work ! Surely, in 
 such, the head is sick, and the heart (the life) faint.* 
 
 On third-day, at ten o'clock, the general Yearly Meeting 
 again met. The epistles from other Yearly Meetings were 
 read, and a committee appointed to prepare answers to them 
 as way might open. 
 
 The queries and answers were then read, and some remarks 
 made by some of the strangers present, as well as by a few 
 of their own members — and these, as usual, were afterward 
 called the exercises of the Yearly Meeting. 
 
 * Since the above was ■written, a few members of Genesee Yearly Meeting 
 have withdrawn from the wholesome restraints of our discipline, and set 
 up a meeting of their own. 
 
5a0 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1842. 
 
 The state of society, in relation to tlie life and conversa- 
 tion of the members, as manifested by their support of the 
 testimonies of Truth, although the prominent object of hold- 
 ing a Yeai'ly Meeting, often, as now, appear to be passed 
 over too superficially. The queries are read, the answers are 
 read, and a summary is formed to be recorded — and what else 
 of practical benefit to society at large is the result of a Yearly 
 Meeting coming together ? Very little indeed, if fruits are 
 the evidence. The proper and legitimate object and business 
 of holding a Yearly Meeting are subjects on which Friends 
 generally have very vague and indefinite ideas. Custom 
 seems to have established a round of business, and this is pur- 
 sued in rotation, with too little other concern for the welfare 
 and improvement of society at large. The absent and de- 
 linquent members are not often, if at all benefitted by the 
 holding of a Yearly Meeting ; and it may even be questioned 
 whether those who do attend are permanently and religiously 
 edified, instructed, and improved thereby. This subject ought 
 to be examined more deeply ; for Truth does not work by in- 
 efficient means. There must be defect in the manner, the ob- 
 jects, or the persons who hold the Yearly Meeting, or greater 
 good would be the result of these associations. 
 
 This afternoon several Friends and myself were taken by 
 William S. Burling to dine at his house in South Farmington, 
 two miles from Canandaigua, and nine from the place where 
 the Yearly Meeting is held. Here we tarried the night, and 
 next day attended South Farmington meeting — the Yearly 
 Meeting having adjourned till fifth-day. This meeting was 
 not large ; we had a laboured communication from a stranger 
 that occupied nearly the whole time ; and it appeared to be a 
 poor, lifeless meeting. Oh ! how a lifeless ministry tends to 
 shut up the springs of life Divine ! 
 
 Returning to William S. Burling's to dine, our company in- 
 clined to spend the afternoon in an excursion to see the lake, 
 and the splendid town of Canandaigua, which has been called 
 a town or city of palaces, and where is one house built by a 
 rich man to excel all the rest, at a cost of twenty to thirty 
 thousand dollars. I was invited and solicited to join the 
 party, but declined as a practical testimony against the idolatry 
 
Chap. XVI.] JOURNAL OP JOHN COMLY. 551 
 
 of gratifying curiosity in admiration and applause of the works 
 and vanity of man. Ah ! how few seem aware, while they are 
 applauding the contrivance and show, and finery and super- 
 fluity, and extravagance of the rich, in their costly buildings 
 and works of art, that they are not only worshipping the 
 works of men's hands, hut actually admiring and approving 
 of the fruits of oppression. For where does the superfluity 
 of wealth arise from, but out of the gain of oppression, or 
 fraud, or violence ? Such, on inquiry, was found to be the 
 origin of the riches of him who thus attracts the idol gaze 
 and admiration of the multitude that view his splendid, 
 gaudy, costly edifice. And such is the praise that man gives 
 to his fellow-worm, for the images or idols of his vanity, am- 
 bition, or pride ! 
 
 As to myself, while I can admire the works of nature's 
 God, and adore the Divine Architect in beholding them, yet 
 when a fine, costly building, or other splendid work of the art 
 and pride of man is presented to my view, the mind imme- 
 diately adverts to the intimate connection that I believe to exist 
 between such display of pomp and vanity with fraud, oppression, 
 extortion, and the misery of many innocent persons. How 
 sad the reflection ! and especially when it must be applied to 
 the professed followers of Him who was meek and lowly of 
 heart, and who was a perfect example of simplicity and plain- 
 ness. But while self-exaltation, pride, vanity, ambition, and 
 the love of praise rule in the hearts of men and women, the 
 rich will be oppressors, and those who are making haste to be 
 rich will also oppress ; and both will fall into many tempta- 
 tions and snares, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts. 
 
 On fifth-day morning we returned to Farmington ; and on 
 the way, met a plain, aged orthodox Friend who was inquiring 
 the way to another orthodox Friend's house. As he stopped 
 us for this purpose, he said he was " very sorry that we sepa- 
 rated, but that now we must try to make it up in loving one 
 another." William S. Burling gave him plain directions 
 for finding his friend's house, and we went on. This honest 
 confession I thought worthy of noting, inasmuch as it corres- 
 ponds with numerous others made by orthodox Friends, who 
 have said they were mistaken, and that if it was to occur 
 
552 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1842. 
 
 again, they would not promote a separation as they did. But 
 many of them were blinded, and led by the overpowering in- 
 fluence of their rulers. 
 
 The Yearly Meeting convened at eleven, and after some 
 other business, the revised discipline, as reported by a com- 
 mittee of men and women Friends, appointed last year for 
 that purpose, was taken up, and after being discussed a con- 
 siderable time was referred to the next sitting. 
 
 On sixth-day morning at eight o'clock, the select meeting 
 of ministers and elders again met, and after the business was 
 got through with, way appeared open again to call the atten- 
 tion of Friends to the use and design of meetings of ministers 
 and elders, in order that unity, and peace, and harmony of 
 labour in the cause of Ti'uth might be maintained. In refe- 
 rence to the present state of things, it was evident the ministry 
 was not preserved in purity, and with a baptizing, gathering 
 influence ; else why so much clashing, to the stumbling of the 
 weak and honest-hearted ? It was also obvious that a level- 
 ling spirit was prevailing in society, that would prostrate all 
 the salutary guards and helps intended to promote unity and 
 concord, and preserve the ministry and ministers in soundness 
 and consistency ; and a call of deep inquiry was sounded forth 
 for a close examination, whether ministers and elders were not 
 accessory to this spreading evil, for want of abiding in, and 
 and under the operation of the cross to all that is selfish, 
 however refined it may appear to be. For if this scattering 
 ministry, and prostration of order and discipline shall prevail, 
 the society, the little children and flock may become scattered 
 as to the four winds ; but the fault may be in the watchmen. 
 Some other close remarks were made ; after which, a young 
 man arose, and with much apparent zeal descanted largely 
 on the subject of the ministry, but his discourse conflicted 
 somewhat with the foregoing exercise, and was not satisfac- 
 tory to my mind. 
 
 So I was again brought to remember the lesson of the 
 mystery of patient, suffering silence for the cause' sake, and 
 to commit all to Him who judgeth righteously. 
 
 At eleven o'clock the Yearly Meeting resumed the con- 
 sideration of the revised discipline. The remainder of it was 
 
Chap. XVI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY 553 
 
 read and adopted, and an increasing quietness and order pre- 
 vailed. This apparent change for the better "was the subject 
 of gratulatory remark by some strangers, and several of their 
 own members. • 
 
 The women's Yearly Meeting also read and adopted the 
 revised discipline, and a reciprocal understanding was had 
 with much harmony. 
 
 On seventh-day, the report on Indian concerns was read ; 
 the minutes of the meeting for sufferings, and of last Yearly 
 Meeting were also read ; some reports of committees, and the 
 essays of epistles to other Yearly Meetings ; and the meeting 
 closed by reading over the minutes of its proceedings. Then 
 the shutters between men and women Friends were opened 
 at the request of one of the female strangers. I had been 
 looking for an opportunity through the whole of this sitting, 
 to open some views in relation to the right order and proper 
 business of these annual meetings, with their use to society 
 at large, and also to the meetings composing them ; but no 
 way had opened to deliver this exercise, and I now hoped this 
 opportunity of both sexes together might be the proper time. 
 But in this I was disappointed. There was no room. Much 
 was said, many words were communicated ; but I had again 
 to recur to my lesson of the mystery of silent suffering with 
 the seed of life, in confidence that Omnipotent power can do 
 his own work, himself alone. So be it. His servants must not 
 strive even to speak, when there is no room. They must not 
 force their way, when He opens not a way for them. All they 
 have to do, is to stand ready to obey when He puts forth and 
 goes before them, and opens a door of profitable utterance. 
 
 Meeting closed about three o'clock, and next day I again 
 attended Macedon meeting to some degree of satisfaction. 
 Next morning set out for home, where I arrived on fourth- 
 day evening. 
 
 It now remains for us to give a brief account of the suc- 
 ceeding years of the life of our beloved father, concerning 
 the events and movements of which, he appears to have left 
 no record. 
 
554 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. [1845-50. 
 
 In the fifth month, 1845, with the approhation of his 
 monthly meeting, a minute was granted him to visit some 
 meetings within the limits of our Yearly Meeting. This mi- 
 nute was retained more-than a year; and the service perform- 
 ed as way opened, according to the pointings of Truth. The 
 fulfilment of this concern closed his labours abroad. The few 
 remaining years were spent chiefly at home, with the infirmi- 
 ties of age and disease increasing upon him, but with a mind 
 unimpaired, sensitive, and alive in concern for the welfare of 
 the human family, and particularly that of his own religious 
 society, on behalf of which he had long and faithfully la- 
 boured. Having borne the burden and heat of the day of 
 trial and deep proving, he was permitted, in the evening of 
 life, to retire in a measure from the field of active labour ; 
 yet evidences were amply furnished of a continued exercise 
 and travail for the preservation of his fellow-members, and 
 his mind was often bowed under a weight of suffering and dis- 
 couragement in view of some of the departures among us 
 from the sure foundation, the internal manifestations of Di- 
 vine light and love ; and the intercession of his spirit oft- 
 times was, " Spare thy people, Lord, and give not thy 
 heritage to reproach !" 
 
 His feelings and exercises at this period, in relation to the 
 state of society, were sometimes expressed in his epistolary 
 correspondence, in pathetic and forcible language, even that 
 of " filling up that which remains of the sufierings of Christ 
 for his body's sake, which is his church." "The seed is un- 
 der suffering, and it seems my allotment to suff"er with it, as 
 if arraigned before Pontius Pilate, in silence too, while the 
 spirit of the chief priests, the accuser of the brethren, is per- 
 mitted to vaunt over the suff'ering seed of life." "When I 
 compare the state of our society Avith the standard of Chris- 
 tian character, which I surely believe we are called by the 
 nature and spirituality of our profession to sustain and exem- 
 plify, I mourn ; I regret the loss to ourselves, and to the 
 community in which we are located." 
 
 He was enabled to bear with patience and fortitude the 
 various adverse circumstances to which, in this probationary 
 state, we are more or less subject ; and through all the dis- 
 
Chap. XVI. J JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. 555 
 
 pensations of trial and affliction that were meted liim, it was 
 his concern to preserve the Christian spirit, and to " show 
 forth in living characters the excellency of the meekness and 
 wisdom of Jesus." 
 
 Surrounded hy domestic comforts, and blessed with the 
 friendship of congenial minds, his affectionate heart often rea- 
 lized the pleasure of social enjoyments in frequent visits from 
 valued friends. In consequence of severe, and repeated at- 
 tacks of a neuralgic affection, it became expedient for him to 
 refrain from much active exertion ; therefore he rarely left 
 home, excepting to attend his meetings for worship and disci- 
 pline. This duty (with the exception of an instance of ex- 
 treme illness in 1849, which confined him to the house for 
 several months,) he was generally enabled faithfully to fulfil 
 to the close of his life, even under the pressure of physical 
 infirmity and suffering. 
 
 His ministerial labours were not frequent, but accompanied 
 with the power and authority of Truth. 
 
 In the Yearly Meeting, in fifth month, 1850, which he at- 
 tended under great bodily weakness, his company and ex- 
 pressed exercises were grateful to his friends, and the weight 
 and solemnity of his spirit in their midst, was strengthening 
 and encouraging to many minds. 
 
 His impressive address in the meeting for ministers and 
 elders, on the seventh-day preceding, is held in vivid remem- 
 brance by many who were present, particularly his advice to 
 those young in the ministry ; that they be watchful and at- 
 tentive to the simple openings of Truth, without seeking great 
 things, and yet to be ever more ready to hear than to speak. 
 
 At the monthly meeting preceding his death, he felt drawn 
 to visit the women's meeting, in which he earnestly and pa- 
 thetically addressed mothers, and encouraged them to guard 
 the tender minds of their children from contaminating influ- 
 ences ; to train them up under the discipline of the cross, in 
 simplicity of dress and address, in the subjection of their 
 wills to parental restraint, and thus lead them along in the 
 paths of innocency, purity, and uprightness. 
 
 He was favoured to assemble with his friends at the quar- 
 terly meeting, which was held at Gwynedd in the early part 
 
556 JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLY. [1850. 
 
 of the eighth month, and his exercises and labours therein 
 were peculiarly tender and impressive. The fatigue attend- 
 ant on this exertion occasioned much suffering; yet the 
 mingling with his friends, both in a religious and social capa- 
 city, was refreshing and animating ; and will long be remem- 
 bered by them with satisfaction and comfort. 
 
 His health continued apparently as good as usual, until 
 early in the morning of the 17th of eighth month, when he 
 was attacked with a violent pain in the chest, and difficulty 
 of respiration. Remedies were administered which somewhat 
 relieved him, so that the middle part of the day was passed 
 in comparative comfort ; but toward evening the paroxysms 
 of pain returned, which every effort to alleviate proved una- 
 vailing. And the suffering continued without any abatement 
 until about ten o'clock in the evening, when the slender 
 thread of life was sundered, and his purified spirit reposed in 
 the bosom of its Father and its God, Calmness and serenity 
 beamed in his countenance through the day, and continued to 
 rest with sweetness on his lifeless remains. Affection and ten- 
 derness were manifest in every word and every look, and his 
 mental faculties continued unobscured ; yet he intimated 
 nothing to his family of the probable result of this illness, 
 nor expressed any apprehension that it might soon terminate 
 his existence, but every circumstance and feeling were cor- 
 roborative of his full preparation for the solemn change, that 
 all is well, and all tvas rigidly ordered. 
 
 The sudden transition of spirit from the scene of mortal 
 suffering to the fruition of eternal blessedness, may be com- 
 parable to a translation from earth to heaven ; so calm, so 
 peaceful, yet so instantaneous was the release from the bonds 
 of earthly existence. Surely it is an evidence of Divine fa- 
 vour ; and may we adore the goodness and mercy that spared 
 him the sufferings of a protracted illness, and. saw meet to 
 vouchsafe the full possession of his mental and spiritual per- 
 ceptions to the close. And now, blessed assurance ! he rests 
 in peace ; he hath finished his course, and hath joined the as- 
 sembly of the ransomed and redeemed of all generations. 
 
 His funeral, which took place on the 20th of eighth month, 
 1850, was attended by a large company of Friends from the 
 
Chap. XVI.] JOURNAL OF JOHN COMLT. 557 
 
 immediate and surrounding neighbourhoods, and was a solemn 
 occasion. 
 
 Sacred indeed is the memory of beloved and venerated 
 parents, their precepts having distilled upon the heart as the 
 dew upon the tender plant. When they are removed from 
 this earthly sphere, and we can no longer hear their voice, 
 more precious than rubies is every memorial of their excel- 
 lence ; and to those who remember with aifection our valued 
 parent, the preceding memoirs will be welcome. Encourage- 
 ment and instruction may be derived from the evidence, abun- 
 dantly given, of his reliance upon Divine power for direction 
 in his movements ; and that he witnessed the preserving in- 
 fluences of heavenly Love to rest upon and encompass him 
 through a long life, in accordance with Scripture testimony. 
 "As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so is the Lord 
 round about his people, from henceforth and /or ever.'" 
 
EEFLECTIONS OR ESSAYS, 
 
 MISCELLANEOUS MEMORANDUMS. 
 
 First-day, sixth month 20th, 1830. 
 Some precious openings on the subject of numbering the bless- 
 ings, favours, and privileges we enjoy, and how much some peo- 
 ple deprive themselves of tranquillity and comfort by looking 
 •with an evil eye on the dark side of things, dwelling on the spots 
 and blemishes in the character and conduct of others, and mag- 
 nifying trials and unpleasant occurrences. Thus the cup of suf- 
 fering is often made more bitter, by the indulgence of this un- 
 happy disposition ; and by habit, the mind may become so prone 
 to this kind of measurement of things, that it becomes insensi- 
 ble of the good things and comforts it might otherwise recount 
 and enjoy ; or if it sees them, it has no capacity for relishing 
 them. Contentment is banished, and a murmuring complain- 
 ing spirit preys upon the peace of those who thus yield to this 
 weakness. But by always endeavouring to dwell in the lowly 
 valley of humility, and keeping the eye single through all, to 
 see and acknowledge the hand as well as the mercy and good- 
 ness of God in all events, to mark his gracious designs in all 
 the trials and afflictions of life, the mind becomes accustomed 
 to refer all to his Divine superintendency, and confiding in 
 his goodness, mercy, and loving-kindness, learns to maintain 
 a habitual cheerfulness in all conditions. Prosperity then 
 does not elate too much, nor adversity unprofitably depress 
 the dependent soul. "My Father holds the helm," is the 
 confidence of every child of God in all the storms and tem- 
 
 559 
 
560 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 pests of life, and therefore calmness and equanimity preserve 
 the mind in peace. Love reigns supreme, and happiness is 
 found at home. 
 
 Sixth month, 27th. — A comfortable calm meeting. Divers 
 strangers present, though a number of our own members were 
 absent, so that it was rather a smaller meeting than usual. 
 Some bright views on the query, "Know ye not that your 
 bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit." The danger of 
 the mind, which ought to govern the body and keep it pure, 
 fit for so Divine a guest, suffering defilement to unfit the 
 temple. This temple may be disordered by excess in eating 
 and drinking, when the mind is inattentive to the law of tem- 
 perance. It may be rendered unfit for the Holy Spirit of 
 love to dwell in, by suffering anger, envy, jealousy, ill-will to 
 defile it. It may be rendered unfit by pride, self-importance, 
 and curiosity ; hence fashions in apparel become oppressive to 
 this temple. John Woolman found that wearing more clothes 
 in warm weather than were needful, oppressed the body, con- 
 sequently unfitted it as a temple for the abode of the Holy 
 Spirit. Thus females, for the sake of a shape which Nature's 
 God has not given them, and in obedience to the tyrant 
 fashion, oppress their delicate forms by lacing and bandages, 
 to diminish the diameter of the waist. Does this and other 
 oppressions of the body, in opposition to the laws of what is 
 called nature, contribute to prepare or preserve the body as 
 a temple of the Holy Spirit? How many diseases and un- 
 timely deaths have their origin in these violations of the laws 
 of the kingdom of heaven which the mind ought to observe 
 for the preservation of the body. And how many diseases 
 may thus be transmitted to posterity by the abuses arising 
 from these indulgences ? To preserve the body in health and 
 vigour, that the mind may be serene and occupied to best 
 advantage in this temple of the Holy Spirit : there to hold 
 "communion sweet, communion large and high," with its 
 Divine visitant or heavenly guest, is a duty ever abundantly 
 rewarded in the faithful performance ; but if neglected or per- 
 verted, defilement ensues, and not only the comfort of the 
 animal is lessened or destroyed, but the mind suffers incal- 
 culable loss. Know then, man ! that the laws of thy God 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC 561 
 
 require the faithful discharge of this duty toward thyself, to 
 keep thy "body under" the government of these laws of tem- 
 perance, meekness, patience, humility, moderation, and order, 
 which are intended for its happiness here, and for the accom- 
 modation of that "vital spark of heavenly flame," the immortal 
 soul, so that the end and object of this probationary existence 
 may be fully answered, to the glory of Him who gave thee 
 being, and to the perfection of that being in time and in eternity. 
 
 That this great and glorious object may be promoted, and 
 at length happily attained, how needful the Divine command 
 to watch and pray. "If thine eye be single, thy whole body 
 shall be full of light." Then surely a temple of the Holy 
 Spirit. For " God is light, and in him is no darkness at all." 
 Now "the manifestation or illumination of the Spirit of God 
 is given to every man to profit withal;" and profit or gain 
 all are seeking, but too many or too much mind and atten- 
 tion are turned to seek for the gain of this world, forgetting 
 that godliness is the greatest possible gain or profit which the 
 mind of man can reach after and acquire. How greatly 
 profitable might our silent religious meetings be, if the mind 
 were industriously employed in settling and adjusting its 
 accounts, and thus ascertaining its profit or loss, inquiring 
 whether its care and concern were directed to laying up 
 treasure in heaven or on earth, whether its duties had been 
 performed or neglected, whether the body had been preserved 
 as a temple for the Holy Spirit, or whether it had been de- 
 filed by indulgence, excess, intemperance in eating or drink- 
 ing, sleeping or working, idleness or the oppressions of pride 
 and fashion. Such an employment of the time and of the 
 unspeakable gift, "that maketh manifest" all things that are 
 reprovable," as well as justifies for all that are right, would 
 unfailingly produce the gain of godliness, and tend to the 
 accumulation of treasure in heaven, where neither moth nor 
 rust could corrupt or defile, and where no thief could elude 
 the watchman so as to break through and steal it away from 
 the soul. 
 
 It was the operation of the same Divine gift that manifested 
 to the prophet, and that shows to all men "what is good," 
 and what God requires of them. It is this Divine light that 
 36 
 
562 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 teaches tlie universal principle of justice, and convinces by 
 its own evidence that to do justly is good and right in the 
 sight of God. Through this illumination of the Spirit of God 
 visiting his temple, man sees the rectitude of honesty, sin- 
 cerity and truth, as principles that produce fruits of conduct 
 after their kind, the result of which is peace to the soul, and 
 confidence, trust, and happiness are thereby promoted in the 
 human family. The same gift of Divine manifestation shows 
 unto man the excellence of loving mercy, of feeling its tender- 
 ing sensibilities, and exercising forgiveness and compassion, 
 brotherly kindness and charity toward all men. This princi- 
 ple of mercy and forgiveness was wonderfully displayed by 
 Jesus Christ in his precepts and doctrines, and corroborated 
 by his example. It shows the Christian character. And men 
 may thus judge of themselves by their own fruits. Happy if 
 this frequent exercise of the application of the unspeakable 
 gift, should produce an increase of profit on the subject of 
 mercy, of tender-heartedness, of brotherly kindness, of com- 
 passion, of real sympathy and gentleness of spirit, thus in- 
 creasing in the happiness which is of God, and which consti- 
 tutes godliness in man, leading directly to the establishment 
 of the mind in walking humbly with him in newness of life. 
 
 To this end and object divers parables appear evidently to 
 refer. A certain king took account of his servants, and when 
 one Avas brought that owed him ten thousand talents, because 
 he humbled himself and begged for patience, and then in sin- 
 cerity and honesty promised to pay him all, the king freely 
 forgave him the whole debt. But, oh ! the treachery and in- 
 stability of the human heart, and how soon we forget the ob- 
 ligations of mercy when our own interests or selfishness come 
 into view. That same servant went out and found a fellow- 
 servant that owed him only one hundred pence, and forgetting 
 the compassion shown to himself, he cast him into prison till he 
 should pay the debt. What a mirror for the reflection of 
 heavenly light into the soul, and to teach man to forgive, even 
 as he hopes and desires to be forgiven. So the improvement 
 of the gift of the manifestation of the Spirit, is illustrated by 
 the parable of the pounds, the talents, and the reckoning with 
 the servants for the occupancy of them. So also the parable 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 563 
 
 of the steward and many others. All go to show that this 
 internal manifester is that which enables man to judge for 
 himself, and in himself, what is right ; and thus to profit withal 
 in the things pertaining to the government of the regulating 
 laws of the Spirit of life, the operations of the AVord of God, 
 quick and powerful, the light that shineth even in darkness, 
 in order to produce the light of life. 
 
 So in the beginning of the work of reformation or the re- 
 newings of Divine life, the new creation in the soul, God says 
 to man. Let there be light. Man may shut his eyes thereto, 
 may reject the invitation and abide in darkness, through diso- 
 bedience. But if he opens the door of his heart, if he accepts 
 the ojfer of grace, if he lets this Divine light shine and operate 
 in his soul, then "there is light," and God divides the light 
 from the darkness. The light is called day, because it is the 
 beginning of the new creation, the day of visitation and salva- 
 tion. Again, in the progression of the Divine work in man, 
 God says, " Let there be a firmament in the midst of the 
 waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters." Man 
 is again addressed as having a part, and an important part, to 
 act in this separation between what is of the earth earthy, 
 carnal, material, sensual, and what is above the reach of all 
 his earthly powers and faculties to investigate or comprehend : 
 for so are all spiritual realties, all real heavenly views, feel- 
 ings, and impressions. Thus the evidence of Divine revela- 
 tion is in itself, and hence he that believeth hath the witness 
 of his faith in himself. The firmament is placed in his mind 
 which separates the waters, the instability of human opinions, 
 the fluctuations of the mind, that are and ever ought to be 
 under and in subjection to the certain evidence of Divine 
 Truth — the firmament — from the waters, the living refreshing 
 waters of life, which are always above the firmament, divided 
 distinctly, and with a certain calming evidence in themselves 
 from all the imaginations, willings, and runnings of creaturely 
 activity. God called the firmament heaven. And in every 
 obedient mind he makes this firmament, this heaven within ; 
 but it is by and with the consent and co-operation of that 
 mind. Hence is understood the expression, "My sheep know 
 my voice and they follow me, and I give unto them eternal 
 
564 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 life.^' The dedicated mind learns to know and distinguish 
 between the Divine voice or revelation, and every resemblance 
 of it that may arise in the imagination. A separation is made 
 between the motions or movings of the Spirit and the notions 
 of the creatux'e. The mind acquires stability, JSrmness, calm- 
 ness, deliberation, which constitutes the firmament, and God 
 sees and man feels that it is so, and that it is good. Then 
 the work goes on in order, the new creation progresses in the 
 soul, the waters under the firmament or government of 
 heavenly power and light are gathered together, and the dry 
 land appears; fii'm ground and settlement ensues, even in 
 earthly or temporal concerns;" for the mind acknowledges 
 and owns the Divine law as its guide in all things, and knows 
 it to direct all its paths both in things earthly and heavenly, 
 and each is kept in its proper place. Hence order and peace 
 pervade the soul, and the light shines conspicuously, as a 
 city set on a hill which cannot be hid. 
 
 But, oh! for want of deeper attention to this Divine re- 
 quiring and formation: "Let there be a firmament in the 
 midst of the waters;" in the heart and mind. How many 
 minds, illuminated by receiving the first visitation, and letting 
 there be light in the soul, fail of coming to the experience of 
 this second operation of the Divine power in them, and hence 
 the mixture of creaturely or earthly imagination and activity 
 with impressions of Divine truth ; the waters that ought to be 
 under the firmament not being separated, remain mixed with 
 the waters that are above, and ought ever to be distinctly 
 divided from and kept above those that are below. Here confu- 
 sion arises, and often manifests itself to the children of Light, 
 who have known the firmament in themselves, and therein their 
 eye kept single. The want of this in others, especially such 
 as think themselves called to speak in the assemblies of the 
 people, often occasions exercise to the living seed of Divine 
 Light in the hearers, who have come to a state of stability 
 and discernment, while the poor, active, yet oft sincere 
 preacher, mistaking the Divine visitation, and handing out to 
 others what was intended for itself, acquires a habit of build- 
 ing an altar under every green tree — every lively opening or 
 flowing of the heavenly water — but sufl'ering it to mix with 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 565 
 
 the zeal of the ci*eature, a fire is kindled on the altar 'thus 
 raised in the mixture, and the mind encompasses itself with 
 its own sparks of devotional feeling and warmth ; but the re- 
 sult is sorrow — sorrow to the living birth that is asking bread, 
 but behold a stone ; and for fish, but lo, a scorpion is the re- 
 sult of this unskilful ministry in the mixtui*e ; and this mixture 
 of the waters, as it deceives the instrument so it deceives those 
 who are in the same state of unsettlement and mixture. For 
 there being much of the heavenly waters of life in this mixture, 
 it owns the life that sometimes appears in this mixture in 
 others, and takes this as evidence of not only the gift, but 
 also of the occupancy of it. Besides this, such active, forward 
 spirits, feeling in themselves at times the motions of life or 
 movings of the heavenly waters, become confident in their 
 zeal and running activity", and attribute it all to the mov- 
 ings of the spirit's requisitions. " That which is wanting can- 
 not be numbered." They sometimes feel a blank, and that 
 something is wanting of Divine settlement and peace, but to 
 supply that lack so as to number all to the spirit, they dwell 
 upon and magnify the real motions of life in themselves, and 
 thus persuade themselves it is ail heavenly and Divine. Hence 
 such are apt to grow confident, to give a high stamp to their 
 infallibility and movements, and thus assuming to themselves 
 the seat of judgment, they condemn or slight the judgment 
 and counsel of those who feel and see in the true light, and 
 thereby discover the transformations of this spirit of Anti- 
 christ; this adversary to the glorious order of "the new cre- 
 ation of God;" this self-exaltation that produces "spiritual 
 wickedness in high places." 
 
 But still Divine Love would reclaim and bring out of this 
 mixture, if stillness and deep inward silence were attained. 
 "Be still, and know that I am God," is his language to those 
 who have yet ears to hear ; and if they obey this invitation of 
 Love, in this silence of all flesh, "God is exalted among the 
 heathen, and he will be exalted in the earth." He will yet 
 come into his temple, and all the earth and its waters shall 
 keep silence before him, while the pure seed in these renews 
 its strength. For these are the minds addressed in the pro- 
 phet's commission, "Keep silence before me, ye islands, and 
 
566 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 let the people renew their strength. Let them come near then, 
 and not till then let them speak. Let us come near together 
 to judgment." Here, in holy silence, a true judgment is 
 formed ; the firmament and separation is made between the 
 earthly and heavenly waters, and the Lord's people renew 
 their strength in him, not in themselves, nor in their own 
 confidence. Thus "the righteous man, (the true seed,) is raised 
 up from the east," the shining and arising of the Light of 
 Life, and the resurrection thereof, by which the wanderer is 
 called home — "called to his foot," to sit as one formerly in 
 whom this Divine work was efiected at his feet, in deep humi- 
 lity, clothed, and in a right mind, the covering of meekness 
 and lowliness, (the very reverse of self-exaltation and self- 
 confidence,) is the garment now worn, and it is without seam 
 woven from the top, the heavenly, true exaltation or eleva- 
 tion throughout : for every one that humbleth himself shall be 
 exalted. 
 
 In this state, when silence is the abiding state of the mind, 
 and all its own willings, conceivings, reasonings, and climbings 
 up some other way, are brought into perfect subjection — the 
 trumpet is given, and it gives a certain sound that is owned 
 by all, because it sounds only in the life, the separation being 
 made, and the firmament established in the midst of the wa- 
 ters, there is no more of the mixture appears ; the earth brings 
 forth after its kind ; the heavens declare the glory of God, and 
 the firmament showeth his handy work. The lights thereof 
 and therein appear to rule the day, and to divide it from the 
 night, and to give light in all the earthly movements and con- 
 cerns. 
 
 Here he that believeth maketh not haste. Calm deliberation 
 presides. Forwardness and running before the true Guide is 
 carefully avoided. The desire is to be with Christ. Thus 
 studying to be quiet, the proper business is not only pointed 
 out with clearness, but a qualification of renewed strength is 
 given to "go tell how great things God hath done" for the 
 soul. 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 567 
 
 Fifth month 22a, 1831. 
 However fax* I may have fallen short of perfect obedience 
 and conformity to the Avill of God, as made known to me, the 
 bent of my mind has been to serve him faithfully in my " day 
 and generation." The duties which I owe to my sovereign 
 Benefactor, comprehended in the substan(?e of love to God 
 and man, although in some sort reckoned of two kinds, are 
 all one in principle ; because our duty to God includes all 
 our relative and social duties one unto another, that are con- 
 sistent with his will and law. Hence, I conceive that in 
 faithfulness and obedience to my God, I am under obligations 
 to fulfil, all the duties of civil or social life that are subor- 
 dinate to the duties and obligations immediately existing be- 
 tween myself and the Supreme Being ; and these latter form 
 the proper province of what is called conscience. Whenever 
 the social duties, (as they are commonly estimated,) or the 
 inclinations of the natural mind, come in contact with the 
 obligations required by the immediate manifestation of the 
 Divine will in the soul, a conscientious scruple is produced in 
 the mind ; a doubt of the rectitude of conformity to rules, 
 orders, customs, or laws in civil society which contravene 
 the immediate requisition of the law of God written in the 
 heart. Where this is the case, the mind or will is free to 
 choose ; and on this freedom and power of decision our ac- 
 countability rests — our conscience accuses or excuses us : that 
 is, the Divine principle, gift, or witness in the soul, condemns 
 or justifies the act or intent of such election, or such an ex- 
 ercise of the will. 
 
 In a state of perfect obedience, the conscience is pure ; be- 
 cause the Divine law operates unobstructed, and stands pre- 
 eminently the rule of action. When inclination, example, or 
 custom is sometimes yielded to in the decisions of the mind, 
 as to its course of procedure, the conscience becomes weak- 
 ened or defiled. And when, for a series of time, the mani- 
 festations of the Divine law are thus disregarded or disobeyed, 
 and a conformity with corrupt examples, customs, and prin- 
 
568 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 ciples is adopted, as the choice of the will, the conscience be- 
 comes seared, or callous to the impressions of the law of God 
 ■written in the heart. Hence, a state of hardness of heart is 
 induced through continued disobedience, and darkness, blind- 
 ness, and insensibility of the purity and happiness resulting 
 from the Divine order, government, and approbation, ensue, 
 as the dreadful consequence. 
 
 From this (to me plain and simple) view of the subject, 
 the expression attributed to the Almighty maker and bene- 
 factor of the children of men — " My spirit shall not always 
 strive with man" — is understood as applicable to the under- 
 standing and perception of minds thus darkened and hardened 
 through disobedience, until not only some but " every imagi- 
 nation of the thoughts of the heart" becomes <■<■ evil,'" and 
 that ^i continually." In this state, though light always 
 shines, man perceives it not ; though God is always good, 
 man knows it not, nor feels nor perceives the influence of his 
 goodness and love, though omnipresent. 
 
 The supreme Legislator, Governor, and Preserver of the 
 Universe, perfect in wisdom and goodness as in power, always 
 adapts his laws to the states and conditions of his creatures. 
 Perfectly happy in himself, his beneficent goodness is ever 
 diffusing happiness among the creatures of his hand ; and 
 this is the end and object of every dispensation of his laws 
 in the government of them, or communicated to them for 
 their observance. Hence it was, in giving his law from 
 Mount Sinai to the people of Israel, through the ministry of 
 Moses, that both the revelation and the adaptation thereof 
 were according to the state and condition of that people. 
 They could not bear or endure the awfulness of the Divine 
 majesty, immediately communicating his will to them, and 
 therefore asked for the mediation of Moses to declare it to 
 them. Goodness and mercy ineffable condescended to their 
 low estate — to their weak condition — and gave them laws, 
 and orders, and rules, adapted to their low and weak condi- 
 tion ; but the end and object of this manifestation of kindness 
 and wisdom, was to advance their happiness, by preparing 
 them to receive and enjoy the increase and fulness thereof, 
 through obedience to his manifested will. Hence, the apostle 
 
KEFLECTIONS, ETC. 569 
 
 says, " The law "was our schoolmaster, to bring us unto 
 Christ." And that very law, referring to the coming of the 
 Messiah, as a Prophet whom God would raise up among that 
 people, says, " Him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he 
 shall say unto you." 
 
 If Ave look at the circumstances and state of the Israelites, 
 when Moses delivered to them the law which perfect Wisdom 
 and Goodness adapted to their low, weak, and even hardened 
 condition, we may see a wise reason in the administration of 
 Providence for suffering or bearing with many things in that 
 people, and giving them ordinances accordingly ; which, as 
 they gradually advanced under the tuition of that school- 
 master, they afterward would have no need of, and their obli- 
 gations would consequently cease. The law would be re- 
 pealed because fulfilled, and therefore obsolete. 
 
 Thus when Christ, the great Prophet, came, he referred to 
 the law given through Moses, and owned and honoured it by his 
 fulfilling it ; but showed the people, in various instances, that 
 it was not adapted to an advanced state of greater perfection 
 and light, which through obedience to that law, as a school- 
 master, they were capable of attaining, and which he in- 
 structed them in. Thus, he says, " Ye have heard that it 
 was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill" — a posi- 
 tive law, contained in what is called the Decalogue, or laws 
 written by the finger of God himself, on tables of stone. 
 Now let us mark the advanced state of the human mind Avhich 
 Jesus addressed, when he not only confirmed this law but re- 
 ferred to the causes or feelings that would induce a violation 
 of it, and taught the necessity of subduing those passions or 
 lusts which occasioned killing ; that thus the root being taken 
 away, the fruit would cease ; that the gospel principle of love 
 being embraced, would effectually ei'adicate hatred : the law 
 of mercy and forgiveness of injuries would supersede the lex 
 talionis, which, because of the hardness of their hearts, had 
 been suffered in their low, dark, and carnal state ; when it 
 was said, "Thou shall love thy neighbour and hate thy 
 enemy;" and when, for the same reason, they were permitted 
 to exact an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, &c. How 
 different the benign principles that qualify men to "iow 
 
570 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 their enemies, bless them that curse, do good to them that hate, 
 and p)-ay for them that despitefully use and persecute." And 
 yet these latter are the positive laios of Christ, him whom we 
 call Master and Lord, and who himself says, '< Why call ye 
 me Master and Lord, and do not the things which I say?" 
 
 When we examine the principles on which the precepts or 
 laws of the gospel of Christ are obviously founded, and com- 
 pare them with those Avhich are cognizable in many of the 
 precepts or laws of Moses given to the Jews, we perceive the 
 advanced state of society in the time of the promulgation of 
 the doctrines of the gospel. But obedience was requisite, in 
 order to produce the happy effects in the human family which 
 Divine wisdom and goodness contemplated by sending his Son, 
 a "Light into the world, that whosoever believeth in him should 
 not abide in darkness" — should not remain, abide, or continue 
 under the comparatively dark, hard, or weak state to which 
 the law of Moses was administered. 
 
 Hence, again, may be noticed the circumstance of superi- 
 ority in the laws of Christ to those of Moses, in promoting 
 the happiness and comfort of society, if we advert to a con- 
 versation of the former with some of the Jews, on. the subject 
 of divorcement. They adduced the law of Moses as of high 
 authority ; the statute book was plain and clear. But Jesus 
 told them the existing cause why Moses gave that rule to 
 them; it was in adaptation "to the hardness of their hearts," 
 that the Divine Lawgiver suffered or permitted them to put 
 away their wives, no doubt to prevent greater evils in their 
 dark, hard, carnal state. "But in the beginning it was not 
 so," said Jesus. Li the institution of marriage by God him- 
 self, he joined male and female together in the law of pure 
 love ; and while that remained, there was no putting away, 
 nor jealousy, nor evil passions, to destroy the happiness which 
 Heaven intended. Jesus Christ, the great Prophet, was sent 
 of the Father, to turn the minds of the people from the dark- 
 ness, blindness, and hardness of heart that had been induced 
 through disobedience, to the Light, Law, and Truth of God, 
 which would restore them to a state of harmony, and peace, 
 and happiness ; in which all the relations of social life might 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 571 
 
 be as helps to forward and increase the sum of real enjoy- 
 ment, even in this life. 
 
 Among these relations stands conspicuously the intercourse 
 of man with his fellow-men by social converse ; or the com- 
 munication of ideas, of feelings, and of information, by 
 words and gestm'cs — or what is understood by natural or 
 artificial language. Nor was this important subject over- 
 looked in the laws of God to his creature man. Moses de- 
 livered to the Israelites positive and plain precepts, adapted to 
 their understandings, respecting the use of language, in their 
 intercourse one with another. The most obvious principle in- 
 culcated is the speaking of truth. Hence, all deception and 
 falsehood were forbidden. And here, again, the low, weak, 
 and darkened state of that people was considered and per- 
 mitted for a season, in suffering them to use oaths for the 
 confirmation of what was asserted for truth. This would be 
 natural in a state of distrust and jealousy. For where mu- 
 tual confidence is wanting suspicion arises, and the fear of 
 imposition or falsehood instead of sincerity and truth. "For 
 the hardness of your hearts, Moses gave you that precept," 
 might be applied to many parts of that system of govern- 
 ment ; and among the rest sivearing was suff"ered to remain, 
 "until the times of reformation," but the law guarded care- 
 fully against deception and fraud by perjury, which it would 
 seem that people were prone to in the selfishness of their 
 dark state. 
 
 When Jesus Christ, the Divine Lawgiver, came, he ad- 
 verted particularly to this subject, as it stood in the statute 
 book of Moses. Perjury or false swearing had been expressly 
 forbidden by Moses, and Jesus forbids all swearing. The 
 darkness and hardness of their hearts being removed by 
 light and knowledge, the people, at least some of them, were 
 prepared to understand, that speaking the truth in sincerity 
 precluded the necessity of oaths. Mutual confidence being 
 restored by the principles of truth, sincerity, candour, and 
 honesty ruling in the heart, the old law that admitted oaths 
 to end strife became obsolete ; and hence, in a state of ad- 
 vancement in society, the laAV of Christ was given : " Let 
 your communication be yea, yea; nay, nay." And the reason 
 
672 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 is obvious, because all additions in order to make truth more 
 true, or "whatsoever is more than these, cometh of evil." 
 Truth is truth, and needs no addition, though the same may 
 be repeated. Thus Jesus frequently used the expression, 
 «' Yerily, verily" — that is, truly, truly — "I say unto you." 
 But he never used an oath to confirm his testimony. He set 
 us an example as well as gave a law, that we should follow his 
 steps in speaking truth from the heart, in letting our com- 
 munications one to another be simply affirmation or negation, 
 in sincerity, in candour, and in truth. All additions come of 
 evil, or arise from an evil root in the mind, and are expressly 
 forbidden by the law of him who declared himself to be the 
 Truth. So his disciple James understood and repeated the 
 Divine command — " But above all things, my brethren, swear 
 not." Make this your highest point of proof that ye are 
 Christians, by obedience to your Master's command — " above 
 all things, swear not ;" but let your yea be yea, and your nay 
 nay. Let your assertions and testimonies be true, and add 
 nothing by way of endeavour to make them appear more true ; 
 for all oaths, and every modification of oaths, never can add 
 value to simple truth, and the disposition to enforce it only 
 "weakens its testimony. Hence the caution of the apostle, 
 "lest ye fall into condemnation" for the evil of these addi- 
 tions. 
 
 "Why call ye me Lord, Lord, and do not the things Avhich 
 I say ?" is a rebuke adapted to mankind on this subject as 
 viewed and acted on by the professed followers of Christ. Is 
 the state of human society, called Christian, as low and de- 
 graded, as dark and hard now, as that of the Israelites just 
 emerged from their bondage in Egypt ? Has no advance been 
 made by the coming of Jesus Christ, a light into the world ? 
 Is all the example, the experience and wisdom of former ages 
 lost in this one case only ? Are Christians still jealous, dis- 
 trustful, and void of confidence in one another ? Are sincerity 
 and truth, though the very basis on which Christianity stands, 
 60 very rarely found as the predominant principles of mutual 
 intercourse between man and man, that his yea is not worthy 
 of credit, his testimony not accepted without an oath or 
 aTirmation, to give it currency in the laws of what is called a 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 573 
 
 Christian country ? Do these laws recognise two kinds of 
 truth in our communications ; one superior to the other, or 
 more true than the other? Does the swearing or affirming 
 witness consider himself, on all other occasions, at liberty to 
 equivocate, evade, or utter falsehoods to his neighbour ? Or 
 rather, do not those laws which require swearing tacitly 
 declare that all men are unworthy of credit, except when 
 brou";ht under the influence of oaths ? 
 
 In these remarks I consider every thing that is more than 
 simple, plain, true declaration, as of the nature of oaths ; as 
 included in the Divine prohibition ; as evil in the sight of im- 
 maculate Purity, who reads the heart, and scans its motives as 
 well as actions, words, and thoughts. 
 
 When the passions of human nature remain unsubdued, 
 there is a ground that bringeth forth briers and thorns in 
 society. Wars, fightings, quarrelling, contention, and strife 
 spring up among mankind, and obtain luxuriant growth in 
 those fleshly lusts that war against or destroy the peace of 
 social life and the happiness of the soul that is under their 
 baneful dominion. It was while men were under the do- 
 minion of these lusts and passions a law was given them 
 that suffered the use of oaths in order to end strife. But 
 when the cross of Christ slays the enmity in man, strife 
 ceases, because its roots are eradicated ; and oaths are use- 
 less, or worse than useless, for Christ is the end and abro- 
 gation of that law which required or permitted oaths. And 
 every practical believer in Christ will manifest that he is 
 governed by the spirit of Christ, which is the Spirit of Truth ; 
 and from the principle of truth in the heart he is under far 
 stronger obligations to speak the truth on all occasions, than 
 all the penalties of perjury, or the supposed sanctity of oaths 
 or affirmations, or any other asseverations or imprecations, can 
 possibly produce. 
 
574 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 REMARKS ON DRESS. 
 
 It has been said there is no religion in dress, nor in colours 
 of dress. But if religion consists in certain operative good 
 principles, influencing the human mind and producing their 
 proper effects upon external things, then may apparel be 
 among the fruits of these principles, and show what they are, 
 in some degree. Religion should not be confined to a belief 
 in, or assent to, certain good principles, and there stop ; to be 
 availing to the happiness and peace of mankind it must be 
 practical. Friends adopted this view in connection with the 
 fundamental principle of all good, the Light within, or God 
 manifest in the flesh. Hence actions, conduct, customs, and 
 practices were subjected to a strict investigation of the prin- 
 ciples or seeds from which they proceeded. If the seed or 
 principle was good, such was the fruit ; if evil, the effect was 
 also wrong. 
 
 We are constituted with powers of investigating, of reason- 
 ing or comparing, and can trace certain effects to their moving 
 causes, and judge of the tree by its fruits. Hence, we know 
 that "a good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, nor can a cor- 
 rupt tree bring forth good fruit." If we take the custom of 
 adorning the body, or covering it with gay apparel to please 
 the eye, as a subject for investigation, and assume the Light 
 within as that which gives us a correct discerning of the root, 
 seed, or principle whence this fruit of action is produced, we 
 may discover whether William Penn's view was correct, that 
 clothing is "for use and decency, not pride," nor to feed a 
 vain mind. The cut and colours will be considered in rela- 
 tion to use and decency as well as economy, simplicity, and 
 moderation. "If thou art clean and warm, it is sufficient;" 
 Beyond this boundary, or standard of apparel, William Penn 
 says, "more doth but rob the poor and please the wanton." 
 But we know the principles of robbery and wantonness are 
 roots of the corrupt tree, and therefore their fruits are cor- 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 575 
 
 rupt. Cleanliness and comfort we know to be good, and 
 therefore their root is good. But the cut of garments may 
 be " unshapely and fantastical," and if the principles of these 
 effects are found to be corrupt or evil, the dress is evil, and 
 therefore opposite to religion; for nothing deserves the name 
 of religion but the fruits of the good tree. Again, the colour 
 may be chosen to please a vain or a proud mind ; for it must 
 be allowed that colours are generally chosen to please the eye. 
 Hence we may and ought to inquire whether the "eye is 
 single," or whether it is "evil:" for as is the root, so is the 
 fruit. 
 
 Friends in early time investigated principles. They found 
 that the drab or gray colour was most substantial for use, 
 and that it was consistent with decency ; it has also been said 
 the cloth was less injured by the dyeing than any other 
 colour ; therefore economy was brought into the motives for 
 its use. They generally kept to the drab colour or mixed 
 cloth, and showed their stability. They knew that capricious 
 fashion was continually inventing changeable colours to please 
 a vain, unstable mind, which knows no steadfast peace. But 
 where, in modern times, are the fruits of the principles of 
 early Friends in relation to colours, shapes, and plain, sub- 
 stantial clothing ? 
 
 The Divine Being is emphatically called Love : thus says 
 an inspired apostle, Grod is Love. Mercy is the offspring and 
 exercise of pure love. It is the attribute of the God of Love. 
 It is the love of God toward repenting, returning, and re- 
 forming man. 
 
 Sinners, disobedient, rebellious, and selfish men, in the 
 darkness of their minds, seem ever to have erred in estimating 
 the character of the benevolent Creator and Redeemer of 
 man. Thus the Israelites formerly adopted an opinion that 
 God was unjust in his dealings with mankind. In the dark- 
 ness of their disobedient hearts they said, " The way of the 
 Lord is not equal." They thus charged the merciful God of 
 
576 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 love with a lack of equity and justice toward his creature, 
 man, until it became a proverb or common opinion among 
 them, that innocent children were punished for and instead of 
 their parents, and they said, " The fathers have eaten sour 
 grapes, and the children's teeth are set on edge." 
 
 But they were not left in this erroneous, dark, and blas- 
 phemous conclusion. The prophet Ezekiel was divinely com- 
 missioned, not only to reprove this unjust and false opinion, 
 but to show them clearly that they were accountable only for 
 their own sins ; and not only so, but that the merciful God 
 was ready to pardon and forgive all their sins, on the simple 
 condition of repentance and amendment of life. 
 
 "Behold," says the just and merciful God of love, "Be- 
 hold, all souls are mine. As the soul of the father, so also 
 the soul of the son is mine. The soul that sinneth, it 
 shall die." 
 
 This plain, unequivocal doctrine of Divine justice and 
 equity is then illustrated by stating the case of " a man being 
 just, and doing that which is lawful and right, not an oppressor, 
 not covetous, but just and upright, walking in the Divine sta- 
 tutes and dealing truly. He is just, he shall surely live, saith 
 the Lord God." 
 
 Next, to show the equity and justice of Almighty power 
 and goodness, he shows the case of a wicked son, and says, 
 " If this righteous man should have a son that is a robber, a 
 murderer, an oppressor, a wicked man," and asks the ques- 
 tion, "Shall he live?" also gives the positive answer, "He 
 shall not live ; he shall surely die ; his blood shall be upon 
 himself." Which shows that his father's righteousness was 
 not transferable to this wicked son. 
 
 Again, to show clearly that neither righteousness nor 
 wickedness was imputed to any but the actor; to illustrate 
 the plain, positive doctrine that the soul that sinneth, and that 
 alone, shall suffer the consequences thereof, he states another 
 case of the third generation, thus : 
 
 " If the said wicked son should have a son that saw all his 
 father's wickedness, but, instead of being influenced thereby 
 to follow a wicked course, he took an opposite one, and walked 
 in the way of righteousness, honesty, beneficence, and truth, 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 577 
 
 according to the lavrs of justice, mercy, and kindness ;" and 
 then positively declared of this son, " he shall not die for the 
 iniquity of his wicked father. He shall surely live." 
 
 Again, the Almighty Father reiterates his equity and justice, 
 as contained in the expression, " The soul that sinneth, it 
 shall die. The son shall not hear the iniquity of the father; 
 neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son. The 
 righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him ; and the 
 wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him." 
 
 After such a plain, unequivocal vindication of the equity a,nd 
 justice of the ways of Divine Goodness, in his dealings with his 
 creature, man, where or how has priestcraft ever found a scrip- 
 tural or rational ground for again reviving the absurd doc- 
 trine, that because our first parents eat sour grapes, the teeth 
 of all their posterity have ever since been set on edge. Yet 
 such is the erroneous and unjust notion, called the doctrine 
 of original sin and total depravity. It makes all men, in 
 some sort, to bear the sin of Adam and Eve, in direct contra- 
 diction to the express declaration of Jehovah himself. 
 
 Priestcraft has fabricated, in the darkness of selfish reason- 
 ing, a system of debt and credit between God and man. 
 Priestcraft declares, on behalf of the God of mercy and love, 
 that his justice must be satisfied for the debt contracted by our 
 first parents in the garden, when they eat the forbidden fruit. 
 Priestcraft says, our first parents, by their disobedience, con- 
 ti-acted a debt to Divine Justice which must be paid. But 
 the exaction of this debt was deferred in consequence of its 
 being assumed to be paid by another at a future period. They 
 say Jesus Christ became surety for the payment of this debt, 
 and Divine Justice was satisfied by the crucifixion of Jesus as 
 the surety and substitute for the sin of Adam and Eve. This, 
 if true, is a flat contradiction of Ezekiel's doctrine, for it 
 makes the soul of Jesus Christ bear the sin of Adam — the 
 righteous life of Christ to die for the wickedness of man. It 
 says, in fact, that the righteousness of the righteous is not 
 upon himself, nor does the wickedness of the wicked rest upon 
 himself. 
 
 If Divine Justice keeps accounts of debt and credit with man 
 
 on the dark principles which priestcraft ascribes to the God 
 37 
 
578 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 of mercy and love, then it follows that when men sin they in- 
 cur a debt, and this debt is thenceforward due to Divine Jus- 
 tice until it is paid, either by themselves or some one else on 
 their behalf. This appears to be the kind of foundation on 
 which the common notions of salvation by the death and atone- 
 ment of Jesus Christ is founded. Man sinned and contracted 
 the debt; Jesus Christ assumed the responsibility and pay- 
 ment thereof, and by his actual death upon the cross cancelled 
 or balanced the account. Oh ! shocking ignorance of the be- 
 nignity, mercy, and love of the adorable Fountain of all good- 
 ness. 
 
 Let us again hear his own vindication of his blessed attri- 
 bute of love and mercy, and free grace and forgiveness. 
 
 "When a wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that 
 he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, 
 he shall save his soul alive, because he considereth and turneth 
 away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he 
 shall surely live — he shall not die. All his transgressions that 
 he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him." 
 
 Now what sort of an account of debt and credit is exhi- 
 bited in this plain and positive statement of the mind and 
 will of Jehovah, who rightfully claims all souls as his own ? 
 If priestcraft had made out the account for him, the debt of 
 the wicked man must first have been paid before he could 
 "save his soul alive," and in that case his wickedness or trans- 
 gressions of the Divine will must have been mentioned and 
 paid, either by himself or by a A'icarious substitute. 
 
 When this monstrous doctrine or abominable notion of con- 
 sidering sin and transgression as an article of merchandise, to 
 be settled by debt and credit, was claimed by the see of Rome, 
 as the vicegerent of Jehovah God — when not only sins past 
 were paid for, and absolution granted for money, but indul- 
 gences, or liberty to commit all kinds of sins, were purchased 
 by the wealthy for money, then indeed could the books be 
 kept on paper exhibiting debt and credit for sins. But this 
 imposition on the common sense of Martin Luther and others, 
 aroused their opposition to the blasphemous assumption of the 
 supposed Divine prerogative ; and this gross doctrine of aton- 
 ing for sin by the substitute of money, was evidently seen to 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 579 
 
 be another daring effort of priestcraft, to delude and blind the 
 minds of the people. Oh! had the whole scheme of debt and 
 credit, — of original sin and total depravity, transferred or in- 
 herited, — of vicarious atonement — and imputative righteous- 
 ness by faith, all been swept into the abyss of oblivion, 
 how had the professed Christian world been relieved from the 
 grievous lumber of priestcraft and mystery Babylon, with all 
 her merchandise ! ! 
 
 The plain, simple, and positive doctrine of the Almighty, 
 through his prophet Ezekiel, as before adverted to, was again in 
 as full and clear terms repeated and recorded by that prophet in 
 his thirty-third chapter, and might forever have set at rest the 
 character of Jehovah, as the God of love, of mercy, and of 
 fatherly kindness, not willing that any of his creatures 
 should perish, but that all should exercise their freedom of 
 choice to return, repent, and live, for why will ye die, house 
 of Israel ! But priestcraft has resorted to something which 
 they find in the New Testament, and again they say, "The fa- 
 thers have eaten sour grapes, and the children's teeth are set on 
 edge." Sophistry and human reasoning, by the aid of Milton's 
 poetic imagination, and the colouring given by translators and 
 commentators to various passages in the apostolic writings, 
 have spun out the old charges of the rebellious and transgres- 
 sors against the God of mercy and love, as though he were a 
 vindictive being, that could not be appeased without exacting 
 the uttermost farthing of what they call the debt due to his 
 justice for the sins of mankind. 
 
 Let us hear and consider what Jesus, his son Jesus, said. 
 Did he contradict Ezekiel? Did he say the prophet was mis- 
 taken in the character of the Father of mercies? or did he in- 
 timate that the will of Jehovah had changed in relation to his 
 equal ways of dealing with man ? No such a thing. Let us 
 examine his doctrine of forgiveness. Is there any thing like 
 debt and credit about it? To "forgive, is to remit, to pardon; 
 not to exact debt or penalty." Now, even supposing a debt or 
 penalty incurred by transgression against the laws of God, 
 Jesus makes no account of its being first paid, and Divine jus- 
 tice thus satisfied, before sins can be forgiven. He simply 
 
580 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 bases the forgiveness and pardon of God upon tlie willingness 
 in man to forgive his fellow-man. 
 
 When Jesus said to the man sick of the palsy, " Son, be of 
 good cheer, thy sins be forgiven thee," he said not a word 
 about the penalty of those sins, nor that any substitute had 
 settled the account for him. What then became of the old 
 debt to Divine Justice, according to the schemes of priest- 
 craft ? 
 
 Well might it be said to many who are ignorant of the prin- 
 ciples of the gospel of peace and salvation, as was said to the 
 self-righteous Pharisees, "Go and learn what this meaneth, I 
 will have mercy and not sacrifice," not even a vicarious sa- 
 crifice. 
 
 How often did Jesus press upon his hearers the doctrine of 
 mercy and forgiveness one toward another, with this plain rea- 
 son as the principle on which their hope of the pardon of the 
 just Judge should rest: "Forgive, if ye have ought against 
 any, that your heavenly Father may forgive you your tres- 
 passes. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father 
 which is in heaven forgive you your trespasses." "Be ye 
 therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful." 
 
 When he said to the weeping, penitent woman, « Thy sins 
 are forgiven," he said not a word about the old debt being 
 paid by a substitute. He confirmed Ezekiel's doctrine, that 
 when the wicked turns away from wickedness and does right, 
 none of his former sins are left to stand against him — they 
 are blotted out of the book of remembrance by free grace and 
 pardon, and are as though they never had been. 
 
 But, of all the parables and doctrines of the blessed Mes- 
 siah, illustrating the Divine character as the God of mercy 
 and love, and eminently confirming the exhibition of his equal 
 and just dealings with mankind, as declared by Ezekiel the 
 prophet, there is none more clear and emphatic than that of 
 the father's conduct toward the prodigal son. Here, if the 
 notion of debt and credit, and the satisfaction for past sins 
 before forgiveness had any foundation whatever, certainly Je- 
 sus would have adverted to it in some way. But no, not a 
 word about atonement, or vicarious sacrifice, or paying ofi" the 
 old debt first. But mercy, love, pardon, free grace, flow forth 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 581 
 
 toward the repentant, returning, humbled son, and shine forth 
 conspicuously in their transcendant purity in the character of 
 the benevolent Father. None of the transgressions of the pe- 
 nitent wanderer are mentioned to him, no allusion to original 
 sin nor total depravity, but love, pure love, meets the return- 
 ing prodigal with evidences of affection and acceptance. The 
 best robe, the ring, the feast of the fatted calf, and all the 
 demonstrations of joy and peace portray the attributes of the 
 God of mercy, compassion, and love, with whom we have to do. 
 
 SOME VIEWS OF THE FIRST CHAPTER OF JOHN. 
 
 " In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with 
 God, and the Word was God." 
 
 That is, God was in the beginning, or, in the beginning 
 God ivas. If the Word means the potver, wisdom, and good- 
 ness of God, it will read : in the beginning was the power, 
 wisdom, and goodness of God ; and power, w^isdom, and good- 
 ness was with God ; and God was power, wisdom, and goodness. 
 
 If '■^tJie beginning" is considered in relation to time, and 
 the production of the visible creation, then, in the beginning 
 of time, God, by the putting forth of his power, wisdom, and 
 goodness, created the material world, or universe. By his 
 word he produced light, and order, and harmony in the works 
 of Creation. 
 
 But if more importantly applying the terms and declaration 
 to inward and spiritual light, order, and peace, we understand 
 " the beginning" to be of the Divine operations in the soul of 
 man, of every man. Then we ascribe all good, all light, all 
 knowledge, all power, that is divine and spiritual, to God only. 
 Thus it is, that "all things are made by" the power, wisdom, 
 and goodness of God, that are made, formed, or produced in the 
 mind of the enlightened, quickened man; "and without him," 
 the Word, the Divine power, wisdom, and goodness operating 
 in the soul, there is not any thing made that is made. 
 
 In the Word, in God, in the power, wisdom, and goodness 
 
582 KEFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 of God thus put forth in active operation, there is life, there 
 is Divine energy moving in the soul, and this life of God thus 
 operating or moving is the light of the souls of men. 
 
 John says, "And the light shineth in darkness, and the 
 darkness comprehended it not." This figurative expression 
 must refer to mind and not to matter, or the word compre- 
 hended would not be used. The Word, or Divine life moving 
 in the mind, shineth or giveth light to that which was dark, 
 or without light ; that is, God is the beginning of light Di- 
 vine to the soul, and the soul receives this gift, not as previ- 
 ously included in itself, or comprehended in itself, for it is 
 declared that the darkness comprehended it not ; and by 
 using this word in the past tense, at the same time that the 
 light shineth is in the present tense, it is evident that the ex- 
 pression is designed to ascribe all the energy, power, wisdom, 
 mercy and goodness manifested by the light to God only ; as 
 the beginning, progression, and completion of the work of 
 salvation to and in the soul. 
 
 It is sometimes considered and accepted, that the Divine 
 Light shines in the dark hearts of the children of men, and 
 they do not understand it ; they know not what it is, and 
 therefore do not believe in it, nor follow it. Perhaps we ac- 
 cept and understand (or rather misunderstand) many things, 
 or think of them as children, and do not rightly conceive of 
 them. But as Light rises, and we are willing to rise with it, 
 we shall see things more and more clearly as men. All the 
 mystery of these first five verses of John's account, as well as 
 divers other parts of his writings and other scriptures, will 
 become plain, simple, and as easy to be understood, as the 
 plain expressions of the prophet Micah: "He (God, the word, 
 the life, the light) hath showed thee, man, what is good." 
 The inward manifestation of Divine Light shows to man what 
 is good ; and all his knowledge of goodness is by and through 
 the sliining or enlightening influence of the spirit of God in the 
 soul, for whatsoever showeth or maketh manifest is light, and 
 this is the beginning of all righteousness, all goodness, all 
 knowledge of God and of his will concerning us. Whatever 
 may be the means or medium he may see proper to use, it is 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 583 
 
 the revelation of himself, that constitutes our real knowledge 
 of God. 
 
 To preach this all-important doctrine to such as were prepared 
 to hear it, or comprehend it, " there was a man sent from God ;" 
 that is, he was sent by God to bear testimony to this word, 
 or power, life, and light, that is the beginning of all practical 
 goodness in the soul. The same John came for a witness, to 
 bear witness of the light, in order that through the medium of 
 his testimony all men that heard him might believe in and obey 
 the Light, which shows to every one what is good. It is twice 
 declared that he was sent to bear witness of that Light which 
 is the true light that lighteth every man coming into the 
 world. Here we perceive Divine Goodness adapting his mode 
 of communicating himself, or revealing his will to man, to the 
 low, weak, or dark state of the mind, makes use of the minis- 
 try or testimony of John to turn the people to take heed to 
 the Light, in order that they might believe in the Light and 
 obey it. 
 
 «< He (the Light, the Life, the Word, God) was in the world, 
 and the woi-ld was made by him, and the world knew him 
 not." 
 
 This metaphor of the world may represent the state of the 
 soul or mind of man, otherwise called "darkness," before the 
 faculties of perception and understanding are unfolded, or 
 it may be produced, after their development, by inattention 
 to the light, yet God is in the soul, by him it exists, as it was 
 made by him, yet it knows him not till awakened, quickened, 
 enlightened by his renewed visitation and the manifestation of 
 himself. 
 
 He came unto his own, ("All souls are mine, saith the Lord 
 God,") and his own received him not, is only another form of 
 metaphorical expression. God is never absent from the crea- 
 tures he has made. His wisdom, goodness, and power pro- 
 duced, and his word upholds them, though they may not be 
 conscious of his sustaining power in them. He came unto his 
 own, might seem to imply his absence till this coming, but it 
 is evidently the manifestation of himself to his own ; and then 
 follows an important, though brief view of the power of choice, 
 or the freedom of the human soul to receive or reject the 
 
584 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 Light, to obey or disobey the Divine manifestation of good; 
 "his own" exercising this freedom of choice is represented, 
 on one hand, as "receiving him not;" and on the other "as 
 many (no definite Calvinistic number) as received him, to them 
 gave he power to become the sons of God" — so that by exercis- 
 ing the liberty of choice rightly, an accession or increase of 
 power is received to become the sons of God, and these wise 
 choosers that receive the visitation or shining of the Light, and 
 obey and follow it, are next described as being born ; a birth, 
 a new birth of Divine Life in the soul is produced by their 
 thus receiving the Light — a birth that is not the product of 
 the will of the animal flesh, or life, or the will of the animal 
 man, only, or of itself, but it is a birth of God in the soul, of 
 real, living goodness, a son of God — his offspring. And let us 
 remember that to as many as receive him, God gives power to 
 become his sons, and the word (the Divine life, power, wisdom, 
 and goodness) becomes the food of these willing minds, and 
 dwells or lives in them, to nourish, support, and cause to grow 
 and increase this Divine birth of life. Thus the Word to them 
 becomes, or is made flesh — that is, food, or meat, (the apostle 
 applies the term "milk of the Word" to the babe-like state,) 
 and dwells in them, with an ample supply or fullness of grace 
 and truth, for all their wants, causing them to become the 
 sons of God, by and through the virtue of the nourishment 
 thus inwardly derived to them. "My meat is to do the will 
 of him that sent me." 
 
 All those who thus believe in the Light, grow in the light; 
 and their understandings come to be opened to see and know 
 that they are born of God, because goodness is their life, and 
 they behold the glory of this Divine birth and growth in them- 
 selves, as the glory of the only begotten of the Father — that is 
 the birth of Di^^ne life produced by the love and power of 
 God only, ascribing all to him only — and claiming nothing to 
 themselves, as effected by the will and power of man, inde- 
 pendently. 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 585 
 
 It is abundantly evident that the work of the Divine light 
 and spirit of God in the soul of man, is a progressive work. 
 Our own experience bears testimony to this fact. We grow 
 in the Truth, through obedience to the manifestations of the 
 spirit. In this growth and advancement, the state of the soul 
 is fitly compared to infancy, childhood, youth, manhood, strong 
 men, fathers, elders. The records of scripture bear ample 
 testimony to the truth of this view. The economy of Perfect 
 Wisdom, in the dispensations of his light and grace to his 
 obedient children, is abundantly manifest, not only in the ex- 
 perience of mankind now, but also in the records of all former 
 ages. In this economy, to use the apostolic metaphor, in the 
 state of infancy we are fed "with milk," (the first food of 
 babes,) "and not with meat," (the food of men.) And Paul 
 gives this rational explanation to the Corinthians, "for hi- 
 therto ye were not able to hear it^ neither yet now are ye able." 
 So Jesus himself, a little while before he was taken away from 
 his disciples, referred to this same Divine economy when he 
 said, "I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot 
 hear them now.'' But for their encouragement, he added, 
 "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of Truth, is come, he will guide 
 you into all truth; and he will show you things to come." 
 
 The Apostle Paul gives his own experience in this pro- 
 gressive work of the Spirit, in these plain and obvious ex- 
 pressions: "When I was a child, I spake as a child, I un- 
 derstood as a child, I thought [in the margin, "reasoned,"] 
 as a child ; but when I became a man, I put away childish 
 things." 
 
 Having premised these views and facts — and having long 
 been endeavouring to walk in this path of advancement toward 
 manhood, in the knowledge of Divine things, I have witnessed 
 some of the gradual unfoldings of the Spirit of Truth, enabling 
 me to put away "childish things," and the "thoughts" or 
 "reasonings" of a child, concerning Divine things. 
 
586 REFLECTIONS, ETC 
 
 THE TRANSFIGURATION. 
 
 The three evangelists, Matthew, Mark, and Luke, have 
 recorded this remarkable event in nearly the same words. 
 But a few days before, Jesus had told his disciples and the 
 people present, that there were some standing among them who 
 should not taste of death, until they had seen " the kingdom of 
 God come with power," or "the Son of man coming in his 
 kingdom." 
 
 And after six days, he took Peter, and James, and John, 
 three witnesses, and led them up into a high mountain, apart 
 by themselves, and was transfigured in their presence, so that 
 his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment became exceed- 
 ing white so as no fuller on earth could excel them. And 
 there appeared unto them, Moses and Elias, talking with Je- 
 sus. In this glorious conference, such were the happy feelings 
 of the disciples, that Peter said to Jesus, It is good for us to 
 be here. He then proposed to make there three tabernacles, 
 one for Jesus, one for Moses, and one for Elias. But while he 
 was thus planning tabernacles for them to abide in, a bright 
 cloud enveloped them all, and a voice was distinctly heard by 
 these three disciples, as if coming out of the cloud, which said, 
 "This is my beloved Son, hear him." And when they looked 
 round about, they saw no man, save Jesus only with them- 
 selves. 
 
 In explanation of this wonderful vision, Jesus informed 
 the three disciples who were the witnesses of it, that Elias was 
 the representative of John the Baptist — as John was of the 
 prophetic dispensation. 
 
 This supernatural display of the Divine economy had a deep 
 and very important meaning, for Perfect Wisdom doetli nothing 
 in vain. It was a perfect illustration of the Divine wisdom and 
 power, (the kingdom of God,) as represented in the dispensation 
 of the law given through Moses — the prophets (Elias) and the 
 gospel of grace and truth by Jesus Christ. All these were in 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 587 
 
 perfect harmony and agreement, represented in the glorious 
 conference of Moses and Elias talking -with Jesus. But ^Yhen 
 under this heavenly and harmonious feeling, the disciples were 
 for making tabernacles in order to embrace and retain all 
 three of those dispensations, (however glorious in their day,) a 
 cloud overshadowed them, and an intelligible voice was heard, 
 directing them to the beloved Son only : " This is my beloved 
 Son, hear him." Moses and Elias had now disappeared, and 
 Jesus was left alone with the disciples, so that there could be 
 no mistake whom they were to "hear." 
 
 The concluding part of this display of the coming of the 
 kingdom of God with power and great glory, is wisely ex- 
 hibited in the charge given by Jesus to these three witnesses, 
 Peter, James and John. As they were coming down from 
 the mountain, he charged them that they should tell no 
 man the vision they had seen till the Son of Man were risen 
 again from the dead. And they kept that command, although 
 they then did not understand what was meant by the rising 
 from the dead. 
 
 Now of this transcendent vision, or transfiguration, it 
 might be said of the disciples who were the witnesses of it, 
 as was said on the occasion of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on 
 a young ass, amid the acclamations of the people — "These 
 things understood not his disciples at the first; but when Je- 
 sus was glorified," then opened he their understandings, and 
 they remembered his words. But so it is with man in his 
 natural state, as Paul said of the Israelites when they read 
 Moses — " the vail is upon their hearts." But when Christ is 
 risen in the soul, and becomes the light and leader thereof, 
 the " vail is done away in Christ, the resurrection and the 
 life" of the soul. Then, and not till then, is this striking 
 figure and just emblem or representation of the Divine har- 
 mony of the transfiguration, or conference of Moses, Elias, 
 and Jesus Christ, the representatives of the three dispensa- 
 tions of the law given from Sinai, the prophets, and Christ, 
 understood and to be testified of. Hence, the disciples were 
 charged to keep the vision to themselves, until this resurrec- 
 tion was known in themselves, and power thereby received 
 
588 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 from on high to tell it unto others, as living witnesses of its 
 reality. 
 
 As the Divine harmony of all the dispensations of God to 
 his creature man, in the progressive work of the new 
 creation, is revealed when the vail is done away in Christ, so 
 the cloud is removed; and the ministration of death, with all 
 the sanguinary laws and their death-penalties, and all the 
 wars and judgments that were commanded hy God himself 
 under that typical dispensation, and of which he made the 
 Israelites his executioners — with all the rituals, ceremonies, 
 outward sacrifices and ordinances, oaths and circumcisions, 
 as well as outward washings of that shadowy and figurative 
 dispensation, together with the prophetic or foreseeing dis- 
 pensation, and the watery baptism of John, under the repre- 
 sentation of the prophet Elias — passes away as of no further 
 obligation or use, (however glorious and real in their day,) 
 and Jesus is left alone, with the Divine command to every 
 disciple to hear him. Thus Christ, the Light, the Spirit 
 of Truth, the Divine Anointing, the unerring Lawgiver, as 
 well as Saviour of the soul of man, becomes all in all; and 
 our whole and undivided attention is directed to hear him, 
 and obey him in all things. Thus, also, we come to witness 
 the new creation ; a new heaven and a new earth, wherein 
 dwelleth righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. 
 
 MEMORANDUM. 
 
 The history of human life is a detail of incidents and cir- 
 cumstances that relate to our progress through time. Such 
 of these occurrences as may be useful to others similarly cir- 
 cumstanced, may occasionally be noted, as waymarks ; more 
 particularly when a lesson of practical instruction, admoni- 
 tion, or caution stands in connection therewith. Lessons of 
 utility are more likely to result to us from a belief in Divine 
 euperintendency and providential care, continually extended 
 toward the creatures of the benevolent Author of our being 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC 589 
 
 and of our blessings. Nor "will the humble, dependent mind 
 fail to offer up the tribute of gratitude and love to the Foun- 
 tain of inexhaustible goodness, mercy, and condescending re- 
 gard, in the evidence of his protection and care, and the 
 remembrance of his gracious benefactions. 
 
 With this grateful feeling, it seems right for me to make a 
 short memorandum of some transactions, that have been the 
 occasion of renewed evidence and confirmation, of the care 
 and interposition of Divine Providence over the concerns of 
 his dependent children. From various circumstances of a 
 trying character, my mind had become depressed with some 
 degree of discouragement, when it seemed right to accompany 
 a friend and neighbour some distance, on temporal business. 
 It was a business that had relation to the settlement and com- 
 fort of near family connections, as well as their temporal in- 
 terests. My judgment and opinion being requested, and some 
 deference professed thereto, it brought my mind into close ex- 
 ercise and a deep concern to seek after the counsel of Truth. 
 Yet, on leaving home, such were the discouragements that 
 pressed on my spirit that I had a lively feeling of that state 
 which seemed to say, " How long shall I be with you," in the 
 cares, anxieties, and perplexities of these temporal matters ? 
 " How long shall I suffer [bear, or endure] you," in these diffi- 
 culties and unsettlements ? For this was far from being the 
 fii'st trial I had endm-ed on account of this friend's business. 
 
 But, striving to keep my mind calm, patient, and steadily 
 dependent on Divine aid and counsel, I went with the friend, 
 travelled through the subject, and was favoured to see a path 
 to a satisfactory result. This path was opened after giving 
 my candid opinion, — adverse, indeed, to their anticipations, 
 but leading to more practical and rational views of the com- 
 fort and settlement of their minds, and promoting their tem- 
 poral interests and accommodations. I returned home with 
 grateful acknowledgments of heavenly kindness, and the evi- 
 dence of condescending regard to the travail of my spirit on 
 this occasion. Surely the Most High yet rules in the business 
 of men who rely on his providential care, and seek his coun- 
 sel and direction in their temporal as well as spiritual con- 
 cerns. It is his own works, both in natural and divine things, 
 
590 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 that pi-aise him ; and man glorifies his Maker when he seeks 
 and asks for his wisdom and government to order his ways in 
 all things. 
 
 Tenth month 17th, 1889. 
 
 Riding along the road this morning, I came in sight of and 
 passed a spacious house and out-buildings, newly erected by a 
 member of our religious society. A train of reflections were 
 excited on the occasion ; for it immediately occurred to my 
 remembrance that I had heard he had sold this property, and 
 that one of his objects in building on this piece of poor land, 
 which he purchased, was to sell it again at an advanced price. 
 The house had (for the country) an elegant, showy appear- 
 ance, being finished in modern style ; the other buildings sub- 
 stantial, to appearance, and with tasteful correspondence. 
 This Friend had occupied these buildings for some time pre- 
 vious to his sale of them. He is a plain man himself; and to 
 a stranger, a sincere, seeking mind, who might have found 
 him in such a splendid house — there would have been a dis- 
 cordant language, a stumbling-block — to comprehend how a 
 plain Friend — a friend to truth, humility, simplicity, and low- 
 liness, or heavenly mindedness — could spend his money, his 
 labour, and his mind, in erecting and occupying such a costly, 
 showy, and superfluous dwelling. 
 
 My mind was soon turned toward Friends in large cities, 
 and particularly those who may comparatively be called poor 
 mechanics — bricklayers, carpenters, and some others — who 
 fall into the business of erecting houses on ground-rent lots, 
 &c., for the purpose of selling or trading them to profit, for a 
 livelihood. These builders (and many of them, of latter 
 years, are members of our plain society) are under a power- 
 ful temptation at once to go into superfluities of workmanship 
 about these buildings, in order to suit the taste of purchasers 
 — to please a vain mind. Hence, another temptation arises ; 
 and that may be to use such materials in the work as will be 
 covered and out of sight, that are of inferior quality and 
 cheap, by which more money and labour can be appropriated 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 591 
 
 to external appearances. A part of the "work may thug be 
 slighted, that other parts may be more gaudy, tasteful, fash- 
 ionable, and may please the eye of the wealthy or fashionable 
 purchaser. Now, what becomes of the builder's testimony to 
 Christian simplicity ? Where are his conscious principles of 
 truth, honesty, and uprightness ? Where are the fruits of the 
 firm mind of a consistent Friend, who will not sacrifice to 
 Mammon ? Alas ! the love of gain, backed by the example 
 of other plain Friends, who purchase or rent and occupy such 
 buildings, carries the poor mechanic along the popular cur- 
 rent ; and if he at first, or at any time, feels as if he were 
 violating some little checks of the principle of Truth, his 
 necessity of doing something for a livelihood, and the general 
 example of others, and in other callings, soon smother or 
 silence these convictions. Or otherwise, he draws on with a 
 load of condemnation that continually harasses his enjoyment, 
 weakens his attachment and his attention to the principles of 
 his profession. Hence, he may become negligent of attend- 
 ing week-day meetings, (those touchstones of the principles 
 of the labouring, careful, and busy members,) and try to 
 satisfy himself that he has a reasonable excuse. This rea- 
 soning may be strengthened by the consideration that wealthy 
 Friends, who are diligent in attending meetings, occupy these 
 very houses which he has toiled early and late to build for 
 them ; and that these diligent attenders can spend their time 
 and money in countenancing and upholding vain show and 
 ostentation in various other Avays. 
 
 Oh ! how my spirit feels boAved in tender sympathy toward 
 the seed of life in these poor, entangled, oppressed minds ! 
 But when a wealthy elder, and in the country too, where the 
 temptation to build splendid, showy houses, for sale to the 
 rich worldling, cannot be so great as in large cities — sets 
 such an example, how powerful the influence over young, in- 
 experienced, or poor, necessitous members, particularly in 
 large cities ! How many difficulties these have to struggle 
 with, in the present mixed state of things, in order to get 
 along in life with reputation, and in a manner suitable to the 
 standard of taking care to provide for themselves and house- 
 holds. 
 
592 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 "Building houses suitable to dwell in for ourselves and 
 our creatures," according to the sound views of that eminent 
 Christian philosopher John Woolman, is among the "duties 
 incumbent upon us." Building houses then, both in town 
 and country, is a lawful and necessary calling: but when 
 Friends engage in it for a livelihood, it is needful they attend 
 to the principles of Truth, and keep within its limitations. 
 Now if we believe another testimony of this deeply attentive 
 Christian, we find the principle of Truth, as he kept his eye 
 to it, showed him the inconsistency of conforming to the 
 customs of the world in his business as a storekeeper or mer- 
 chant. He says, " things that served chiefly to please the vain 
 mind in people, I was not easy to trade in ; seldom did it ; 
 and whenever I did, I found it weaken me as a Christian." 
 If this is true, and a correct account of the operation of the 
 unchangeable principles of Truth, oh! how much weakness 
 of Christian feelings, Christian dedication, and Christian con- 
 duct and example, through these channels, has now over- 
 spread society, even the professedly self-denying Society of 
 Friends! But there is a path open to the obedient mind; 
 there is a power in the Truth, by attention to the operations 
 and leadings of which, Friends may come out of these tempta- 
 tions and entanglements, may stand firm and carry on the 
 reformation of a world of intelligent beings, now grievously 
 entangled in expensive and oppressive customs, and in bondage 
 to the "lusts of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of 
 life." Let Friends engaged in the business of "building 
 houses suitable to dwell in," erect them according to the prin- 
 ciples of Truth and simplicity, avoiding superfluities and 
 "things which serve chiefly to please a vain mind." Let 
 them act on principle, and they will be supported and cared 
 for by that Power who cares for the ravens and sparrows. If 
 they sacrifice the prospect of gain from this source of gratify- 
 ing a high, aspiring, proud or vain mind in the purchaser, 
 they may be the means of opening a way for the accommoda- 
 tion of minds of a humble character, who now are oppressed 
 with the apparent necessity of paying rent or purchase money 
 for houses of a description inconsistent with their feelings and 
 views of the humility and self-denial of a follower of Chi-ist. 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 593 
 
 While in a neighbouring city last year, I visited a dear 
 friend, a plain Friend, with whose spirit I had felt much 
 unity, when we met in Philadelphia a year before. But when 
 I was introduced into a very large parlour, furnished and 
 finished in the splendid style of the fashionable circles of 
 citizens, (musical instruments excepted,) a great damp was 
 cast on my anticipated enjoyment of the Friend's company. 
 I felt as I suppose Cowper felt when he said, "A heavenly 
 mind may be indiiferent to its house of clay, and slight the 
 hovel as beneath its care. But how a dwelling, all fantastic, 
 quaint and trim," and elegantly furnished (as the world says) 
 like this, can suit "a heavenly mind, demands a doubt." I 
 made some remarks on the inconsistency of the rich carpets 
 and corresponding furniture, and the style of the building, as 
 not accordant with Friends' pi-inciples of simplicity, but ob- 
 served, that it was probably a hired or rented house. My 
 painful reflections and feelings were increased on being told 
 that the Friend had it built in that style, because it would 
 sell better than a plain one, and they were now occupying it 
 only till they could sell it. Alas ! how the Mammon of this 
 world blinds the eyes of those who yield to its influence. My 
 comfort in the visit was marred ; and no pleasant reflection 
 on the subject has ever occurred since. 
 
 THE TRIAL OF THE PATRIARCH ABRAHAM: 
 
 WHEREIN IT IS CLEAR THAT THE ALMIGHTY NEITHER COM- 
 MANDED NOR INTENDED THAT HE SHOULD TAKE THE LIFE 
 OF HIS SON ISAAC. 
 
 Without reciting the whole history of this faithful servant 
 
 of God, as recorded by Moses, it may be noted that Avhen 
 
 Abraham was one hundred years old, and Sarah his wife was 
 
 ninety, their son Isaac was born to them in that part of the 
 
 land of Canaan which was then inhabited by the Philistines. 
 38 
 
594 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 Some time after this event, a misunderstanding occurred 
 between the servants of Abimelech, king of the Philistines, 
 and Abraham's servants, about a well of water which the 
 latter had digged ; and Abimelech himself having let in some 
 distrust toward Abraham, took with him the chief captain 
 of his army, and went to Abraham in order to settle matters 
 amicably between themselves. But Abimelech's jealousy, or 
 want of confidence, induced him to require an oath of Abra- 
 ham for the faithful observance of a treaty, or covenant of 
 peace between them and their posterity. This treaty and 
 settlement of all claims and matters in dispute between them 
 and their servants, confirmed by the first oath on record, was 
 made at a place thenceforward called Beersheba, or the well 
 of the oath. 
 
 And Abraham planted a grove or rather a tree [as in the 
 margin] by the well at Beersheba, and called there on the 
 name of the Lord, the everlasting God. 
 
 "And it came to pass after these things that God did tempt 
 Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham : and he said, Behold, 
 here I am. And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son 
 Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; 
 and offer him there for a burnt-offering upon one of the moun- 
 tains which I will tell thee of," 
 
 Thus the direction and command of Jehovah to his servant 
 Abraham, stand in our version of the Bible. But the word 
 "tempt" should be rendered tr7j or prove. 
 
 It is to be regretted that the translators did not make a 
 more judicious and correct choice of the term here used. 
 Anthony Purver translates it thus, "God tried Abraham." 
 In the Epistle to the HebreAvs, the inspired author says, "By 
 faith, Abraham when he was tried, offered up Isaac." 
 
 So Moses said of Israel, " The Lord thy God led thee these 
 forty years in the wilderness to humble thee, and to prove 
 thee, to know what was in thine heart." 
 
 Other instances might be quoted to show that Divine wisdom 
 and goodness sees meet to try and to prove his children, to 
 test their fidelity and love to him, in various ways and by 
 various means. This peculiar trial of Abraham's faithfulness, 
 obedience, and love to his Supreme Benefactor, Avas not and 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 595 
 
 could not be in any sense a temptation to do evil or to sin 
 against God. "For," as saith the apostle James, "God can- 
 not be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man." 
 
 It may be admitted that the word tempt has sometimes been 
 used as synonymous with try or prove. But in modern times 
 universally the word tempt is used to convey the idea "to in- 
 cite or entice to an evil or wicked act." The translators, 
 however, (as many have since done,) might have associated 
 the idea of slaying or taking the life of Isaac with the act of 
 offering him for [in place of] a burnt-offering. And yet there 
 is no such a cruel and unnatural act mentioned nor implied in 
 the Divine command to "take now thy son, thine only son 
 Isaac whom thou lovest, and offer him for a burnt-offering." 
 
 However Abraham might have understood the requisition 
 to offer his darling son Isaac for a burnt-offering, it is clear 
 the Lord did not coynmand him to slay his son. But the act 
 of offering him for that i^urpose, was an act of Abraham's 
 mind and will, even before he set out with him and his ser- 
 vants to go to the land of Moriah. And the Divine requisi- 
 tion being clear and plain, Abraham staggered not, hesitated 
 not to obey. 
 
 "And Abraham rose up early in the morning and saddled 
 his ass, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac 
 his son, and clave the wood for the burnt-offering, and rose 
 up and went toward the place of which God had told him. 
 Then on the third day, Abraham lifted up his eyes, and saw 
 the place afar off. And Abraham said unto his young men, 
 Abide ye here with the ass, and I and the lad will go yonder 
 and worship, and come again to you. And Abraham took the 
 wood of the burnt-offering, and laid it upon Isaac his son: 
 and he took the fire in his hand and a knife ; and they went 
 
 both of them together." "And they came to the place which 
 
 God had told him of. And Abraham built an altar there, and 
 laid the wood in order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him 
 on the altar upon the wood." 
 
 Abraham had now substantially and essentially complied 
 with all that was divinely required of him. He would have 
 gone on further to complete the idea of a finished burnt-offer- 
 ing, by slaying the victim and consuming him with fire on the 
 
596 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 altar. For this purpose, "Abraham stretched forth his hand, 
 and took the knife to slay his son." But from this awful act 
 he was stopped, as a thing not required of him. Having fully 
 shown by his preceding acts that his heart was unreservedly 
 devoted to perform the Divine will, even if it had required the 
 life of his beloved son Isaac, (which it did not,) at this awful 
 moment heaven interposed, and gave a clear and positive pro- 
 hibitory command: "Lay not thine hand upon the lad, 
 neither do thou any thing unto him ; for now I know that thou 
 fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only 
 son, from me." 
 
 The last clause shows clearly that when Abraham stretched 
 forth his hand and took the knife, he had in heart, mind, and 
 will fulfilled the Divine command, and thus had already 
 oflFered his son Isaac for [that is, in place of] a burnt offer- 
 ing. His hand was therefore stayed by a heavenly mandate 
 from any further demonstration of his fidelity and love to 
 Jehovah his God. 
 
 The Divine will is steadfast — not one thing to-day and an- 
 other thing to-morrow, to the same person in the same state. 
 Hence, the prohibition or staying of the patriarch's hand, 
 when he took the knife to slay his son, was a clear testimony 
 that the act of taking his life never was commanded nor re- 
 quired. Because the omniscient Mind foreknew the integrity 
 of his faithful servant Abraham, and therefore the trial and 
 proving of his love and obedience was the object of the ope- 
 rations through which he passed. 
 
 Again, if we look at the clearness and precision of the 
 Divine requisitions in this close proving and trial of his faith- 
 ful Abraham, we may perceive that nothing was left ambigu- 
 ous or doubtful, and therefore Abraham could make no mis- 
 take. "Take now thy son," not Ishmael, who had been sent 
 away, but "thine only son, Isaac, whom thou lovest." And 
 to give Abraham time for reflection, there was no haste re- 
 quired ; he was not to move or act from any sudden or mo- 
 mentary impulse. He was therefore directed to get or travel 
 into the country or land of Moriah, at the distance of three days' 
 journey from the place where he then was. And further, as 
 if in order to keep his mind watchfully attentive to the further 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 597 
 
 manifestation of the Divine will, the particular mountain, or 
 place where this offering was to be made, was to be shown to 
 him when he came into that land. Accordingly, on the third 
 day's travelling, "Abraham lifted up his eyes and saw the 
 place afar off." It was by Divine revelation that he saw it 
 and knew it. It was then that he " said unto his servants. 
 Abide ye here with the ass, and I and the lad will go yonder 
 and worship, and come again to you." This economy and 
 prophecy of the faithful patriarch is full of deep instruction 
 to all dedicated spiritual worshippers, to whom the example of 
 Abraham is opened in the true light. 
 
 From all which views and considerations it is evident that 
 the Divine command given to Abraham to offer his son Isaac, 
 whom he loved, (and perhaps was in danger of loving too 
 much,) was a reality in which there was not, could not, be any 
 temptation to do evil, or any wicked thing ; but it was a re- 
 quisition of duty, in order to test and prove the fidelity and 
 obedience of the patriarch ; and this was fully effected, inso- 
 much that the Almighty Father said: "For, because thou 
 hast done this thing," (offered thy son Isaac for a burnt offer- 
 ing,) " and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son, that in 
 blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply 
 thy seed as the stars of the heaven and, as the sand which is 
 upon the sea-shore ; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his 
 enemies. And in" thy seed shall all the nations of the earth 
 be blessed, because thou hast obeyed my voice.'' 
 
 To which may be added the testimony of the author of the 
 Hebrews : "By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up 
 Isaac ; and he that had received the promises offered up his 
 only begotten son, of whom it was said. That in Isaac shall 
 thy seed be called ; accounting that God was able to raise him 
 up, even from the dead, from whence also he received him in 
 a figure." Heb. xi. 17, 18, 19. 
 
598 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 YEARLY MEETING, 1839. 
 
 Some parts of it painfully exercising. Too little solemn 
 silence known and felt, even among ministers and elders. 
 They appeared to come together like bottles jSlled with fer- 
 menting liquids, that want vent ; and thus many made commu- 
 nications "for the relief of their own minds," to the bur- 
 dening of others. Such was the quickness of rising, one 
 after another, that it was difficult for those of slow speech and 
 diffident minds to " get in a word edgewise." The meetings 
 of ministers and elders on seventh-day, though favoured with 
 some excellent communications, especially from strangers in 
 attendance, were from this cause unsatisfactory to my mind. 
 Oh ! for a living silence ; a stillness in which God is known 
 and exalted in the soul, above the hills, and in all the earth. 
 
 During the two sittings of select meeting on seventh-day, 
 the current of speaking was so strong and incessant that it 
 seemed needful for some to be still, and bear the burden of 
 the Word till there were ears to hear. This fell to the lot of 
 some of us older ones ; I say some, for others thrust in their 
 burdens with the younger members, and if they all obtained 
 relief of mind to themselves, they did not relieve others. Oh ! 
 when will solid deliberation, Avith few and savoury words, 
 again crown these meetings ? 
 
 On fourth-day morning, at eight o'clock, the ministers and 
 elders held an adjourned sitting. Old Jacob Ritter, tottering 
 with age, but green and lively in spirit, arose, and in a broken 
 manner feelingly addressed the meeting, introducing the sub- 
 ject of the new birth, or birth of Christ in the soul, under 
 the simile of the child Jesus, whom his parents brought into 
 the temple ; and good old Simeon, Avho had waited for the con- 
 solation of Israel, took him in his arms and blessed him. 
 This he applied to the state of his own feelings, and attempted 
 to repeat Simeon's expressions; but his recollection seemed 
 inadequate, and he stopped in the first effort, finding he could 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 599 
 
 not proceed through, and saying, " No, this is not it ; but my 
 feelings, oh! my feelings, Friends!" I suppose every one 
 knew what he intended to say, and it was with me to help him 
 out, for his own sake and the sake of his living travail of 
 spirit for our safety and instruction. Solemnity prevailed 
 during his broken, tender communication, which to me seemed 
 like taking his leave of us. But soon after he sat down, again 
 the loquacious spirit of preaching prevailed to a painful extent, 
 and I sat in suffering silence till the close. The dear old 
 •Friend's interesting and deeply instructive metaphor, opened 
 in my view as an important reality, that might cure all the 
 creaturely activity which in a little while seemed to sweep 
 away the solemnity of feeling that accompanied his farewell 
 allusions to " Now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, 
 for mine eyes have seen thy salvation, which thou hast pre- 
 pared before the face of all people ; a light to lighten the Gen- 
 tiles, and the gloi'y of thy people Israel." 
 
 Ah ! would but the present disposition to teach others, 
 which so abounds, even in some young ministers, but submit 
 to have the '■'■little child" placed in the midst of their hearts — 
 the "holy child Jesus" — would these but bring this humble, 
 teachable state into the temple, as the parents did the child 
 Jesus, it would gladden the hearts of the Simeons of our day. 
 This humble, teachable, little, lowly, childlike state, is the state 
 of safety, of salvation, prepared (by whom ?) by every one of 
 all people who lay aside their creaturely activity, their willing, 
 their running, and making haste. But for want of our thus pre- 
 paring the temple of our own hearts, by submitting to the 
 cross, and waiting in patience for the putting forth and going 
 before of the light which is the glory of God's Israel, an 
 active, forward zeal appears, very different from the state of a 
 little child. Hence, in this Yearly Meeting of ministers and 
 elders, young persons showed a forwardness to instruct others, 
 and spoke several times ; when, had the docile state of a little 
 child been their abiding state, silence would have been their 
 safety, their glory, their school of instruction. 
 
 My spirit was exercised on account of this forward, active, 
 hasty, communicative disposition, especially in young minis- 
 ters. I remembered the days of my youth — of my first sitting 
 
600 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 in these solemn assemblies — of the silence that reigned among 
 us children, young in experience: but, as little children, desi- 
 rous of learning from the long experience of the elder members. 
 Then the stepping member, the foot, was kept from running 
 into activity, into words, into haste. Then the respect, the 
 Christian deference was felt in the young toward their elder, 
 experienced brethren and sisters. The order of Truth cir- 
 cumscribed the offerings made by way of vocal communica- 
 tion. The little child was brought into the temple ; and a 
 blessing rested on the little ones, who were more ready to hear 
 than to offer the sacrifice of fools. I apprehend it was near 
 seven years before my mouth was opened in these select 
 Yearly Meetings. But now the case appears different. But 
 mine inward eyes do not behold the salvation of God in the 
 oflFerings so hastily uttered. I do not witness the glory of his 
 people in the multitude of words. I see too much of a mixture 
 of the warmth of human passions. I see the danger of mis- 
 taking the workings of the imagination for the motions of the 
 pure Spirit of Truth. This danger is increased in the pre- 
 sent day of loquacity, of much reading, and gathering stores 
 of knowledge. It is increased in those who have become 
 accustomed to speaking in public, and have fluency of expres- 
 sion at command, by reason of the want of faithful elders 
 who can weigh communications in the sacred balance of 
 Truth, and who are concerned to be honest in their awfully- 
 important charge of guarding the ministry from the mixtures 
 of human and Divine. The danger is increased in young 
 ministers who are admired for graceful delivery, and who feel 
 the warmth of animal passions and good desires, and therefore 
 soon come to feel a life in preaching, which grows in propor- 
 tion to the popular applause on which it feeds. Oh ! how 
 mournfully have I seen this exuberance of words, this fungus 
 ministry, spread itself, and grow in leaves and branches ; yet, 
 like the fruitless fig tree, little can be found in it for the 
 hungry, seeking soul to feed on, but leaves. Oh ! popular 
 applause, what unguarded heart of man is proof against its 
 seeming sweet, seducing charms ! Ah ! the " little child,'' the 
 humble, meek, lowly, watchful state — continually relying on 
 Divine direction, support, and preservation — this is the state 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 601 
 
 of safety ; in deep humility and watchful circumspection is 
 salvation known, from all the dangers which surround us. As 
 we abide in the light, and walk only in the light, following the 
 leading thereof, and not running before it, we find a safe path, 
 though narrow, yet wide enough for " a little child." 
 
 First-day, fifth month 19th. — On taking a retrospective 
 view, the " exuberance of preaching" in Yearly Meeting was 
 brought to my remembrance, and passed in review with in- 
 quiry into the cause of what appeared to be excess. All that 
 is more than enough may be considered as degress of excess, 
 till it becomes "over-abundant," or "superfluously plenteous." 
 The Yearly Meeting has been witness of such an excess of 
 vocal ministry, that the proverb was used in relation to it : 
 "The full soul loatheth the honeycomb." The women's 
 meeting in particular, was oppressed and hindered in the 
 business by the "exuberance of preaching." The Select 
 Yearly Meeting, and some of the public meetings, had very 
 few minutes of solemn silence. Whence all this ? In the 
 Divine economy there must be order. All disorder is, there- 
 fore, from a state or spirit that is not under his government. 
 But it is to be supposed, under the influence of Christian cha- 
 rity, that all the preachers were sincere, or wished to be found 
 in the fulfillment of apprehended duties. Admit this to be 
 the case, and that religious exercise was felt under which they 
 might Avant "to relieve their minds" by expression ; yet it 
 does not follow that it was right. Excess of preaching can- 
 not be in the line of Divine order, any more than other super- 
 fluity or excess in other things. There are some kinds of 
 excess which are called ivichedness ; and we have read of 
 ^'■spiritual wickedness in high places." This is awful ! Can 
 it be that the "exuberance of preaching" which has been wit- 
 nessed last week, was wickedness in the high place of professed 
 spiritual worship, and professed gospel ministry ? 
 
 " Come unto nie all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and 
 I will give you rest." Can this apply to ministers, acknow- 
 ledged ministers of the gospel ? We sometimes hear persons 
 say they "have been labouring under an exercise," and that 
 they "speak for the relief of their own minds." It may be 
 well to consider and examine Avhether speaking for the relief 
 
602 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 (rest) of their own minds, and coming to the state of taking 
 the yoke, and learning under it the lesson of meekness and 
 lowliness of heart, are not very different. Yet the latter state 
 is undoubtedly the safe state, and the cure for the "exube- 
 rance of preaching." There may be a burden of the Word, 
 a right concern, a " labour,'' and exercise of mind, profitable 
 to the individual, and in the right order of Divine wisdom. 
 It may become as a <-<-heavy" burden with which the mind is 
 "laden," and under it relief or "rest" may be desirable to 
 the individual. Here is the point of danger to the active 
 spirit of man. Here a degree of impatience under the iveight 
 of the exercise, may induce a belief that relief or rest can be 
 obtained by expression, before the time of DWmQ putting forth. 
 There may be much clearness in the opening, and much weight 
 in the exercise or labour of the mind, and much desire to be 
 doing good ; but for want of the yoke of patience, for want 
 of coming to the Divine anointing, and again learning the 
 lesson of meekness and lowliness, and therein waiting for the 
 clear discovery of his going before, saying, follow me — there is 
 great danger of running before the alone sure guide — great 
 danger of speaking "for the relief of their own minds," and 
 burdening others with "exuberance of preaching," or rather 
 of speaking. In this state the " yoke is not easy, and the 
 burden" does not become "light." The yoke of patience is 
 not taken upon the neck of desire for relief, nor upon the 
 neck of creaturely activity. Hence haste in rising, even im- 
 mediately after there may have been a right offering under 
 the power and in the authority of Truth. And thus " spirit- 
 ual wickedness" in the high and exalted place of gospel mi- 
 nistry may be offered to the people, but it is not to edification 
 and instruction ; it does not furnish comfort and consolation 
 to the mourners in Zion ; it docs not baptize into the living 
 substance of the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. 
 Hence the truth of that Divine declaration in relation to such 
 as preach without being commanded : " Therefore they shall 
 not profit the people at all, saith the Lord." 
 
 But in all these operations, there may be a lack of depen- 
 dence on the only true guide ; and instead thereof, worldly 
 wisdom, human contrivance, political expediency, creaturely 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 603 
 
 activity, and a hasty spirit, may prompt to actions that never 
 produce that pure conscience which Paul found in himself, 
 after he submitted to take the "yoke upon" him and learn 
 the lesson of Christian meekness, humility, and child-like do- 
 cility and obedience. Then, and not till that state attained by 
 him which may be attained by all, can the evidence be cer- 
 tainly felt and inwardly realized of that " peace of God which 
 passeth all understanding," and is the result of a pure heart 
 and a pure conscie7ice. Thus, the dedicated, obedient mind 
 feels in itself the declaration of Christ, "Peace I leave with 
 you, my peace I give unto you ; not as the world giveth, give 
 I unto you." 
 
 To speak for the relief of our own minds, is not a gospel 
 warrant for preaching. It is not a motive lawful for a gospel 
 minister to move upon. To burden other minds by this mode 
 of relieving our 02vn is not a fruit of brotherly love — it is sel- 
 fish. To rise in a meeting immediately after a Friend has 
 offered his gift by vocal communication, is a breach of good 
 order ; it is disrespectful to the preceding speaker, and to the 
 whole meeting ; it shows a want of even Indian good man- 
 ners; and unless the subject of religious concern in the second 
 is a continuation of that of the first, it is a species of disor- 
 der which requires the care of elders. To minds that are the 
 objects of benefit from the exercise of vocal ministry, it pre- 
 cludes the opportunity of solemn, silent reflection, and de- 
 votional feeling. It turns the attention outward ; to hear- 
 ing, perhaps, entirely different views held up for conside- 
 ration, before the mind of the hearers could possibly digest 
 the preceding ; and thus confusion instead of edification is 
 the result of the multiplication of testimonies in quick suc- 
 cession. 
 
 Solemn, reverential silence is better than words to the sin- 
 cere-hearted worshipper in spirit and in truth. Silence, solemn 
 silence is a wholesome discipline to the activity of creaturely 
 imagination. Ministers ought to be well assured of their 
 commission to speak, to interrupt the silence of others, and 
 to speak only as the oracles of God, in the rcnewings of the 
 power of his love and the demonsti'ation of his spirit. If this 
 were the case, there would be no " exuberance of preaching'' 
 
604 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 in any of our meetings. Preaching would gather into a si- 
 lence more sublime and edifying than vocal sounds, and God 
 in all things would be glorified. 
 
 OBJECTS AND PROPER BUSINESS OF A YEARLY 
 MEETING. 
 
 The proper province and business of a Yearly Meeting 
 are subjects that have occupied my thoughts and considera- 
 tion for years past ; and however my views may be singular 
 from others, every year adds proof and confirmation of their 
 rectitude. At the Yearly Meeting of New York, last year, I 
 was engaged to open this concern for the right order of such 
 a body, under the simile of the operations of the second day's 
 work of creation: — "And God made the firmament, and di- 
 vided the waters which were under from the waters which 
 were above the firmament." These waters appeared to me to 
 comprehend subjects of a purely religious or spiritual charac- 
 ter, and those of a secular or civil nature. By a proper divi- 
 sion and separation between the two, we may understand the 
 firmament called heaven, or heavenly-mindedness, when known 
 in the mind, to regulate and keep things in order, each in its 
 proper place ; those things of a heavenly, spiritual, or purely 
 religious character above, or uppermost, and as the proper bu- 
 siness of a Yearly Meeting. Such are religious concerns for 
 the support and advancement of the testimonies of Truth ; 
 such are religious concerns for the right order and govern- 
 ment of the church, the formation of rules and advices of 
 discipline, the right education of children, and the general 
 care to preserve the body in a state of spiritual health. 
 Among these waters, or religious concerns to be kept "above 
 the firmament," may be reckoned the testimony to the truth 
 and excellence of spiritual worship — the care and concern for 
 the maintenance of love and unity — the testimonies of truth 
 contained in the queries — the increase of Christian sympathy 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 605 
 
 and benevolence, and in general the exaltation of the standard 
 of truth and righteousness in the earth. These views, which 
 admit of much enlargement, constitute the proper business of 
 Yearly Meetings, which may be compared to legislative bodies 
 whose object is to promote the welfare and good order of the 
 community. 
 
 But in carrying out these concerns of a religious character, 
 there are necessarily connected with many of them, opera- 
 tions of a secular or civil nature. These are proper for 
 quarterly and monthly meetings, as the executive depart- 
 ments of society, and may be called the waters which are 
 under the firmament; that is, the application and carrying 
 out of Truth's testimonies under heavenly direction, at home 
 in the various departments of a well-regulated society. Of 
 this executive class of duties is the active labour of faithful, 
 concerned Friends, to stir up and encourage the delinquent, 
 the weak, and the juvenile members in the attendance of our 
 religious meetings — the care of Friends to preserve unity, 
 harmony and peace in society and neighbourhoods — the care 
 and guarded education of youth — proper provision for obtain- 
 ing useful school-learning — industrious habits; reading the 
 Scriptures and other instructive books ; guarding against cor- 
 rupting, unprofitable associations, pernicious publications, vain 
 amusements, and many other things — also to carry out in 
 practice the principles of temperance, true moderation, Chris- 
 tian sympathy, and active benevolence toward the poor, the 
 afflicted, the oppressed — to guard, admonish and help one 
 another in relation to the due support of the testimonies to 
 justice, mercy, truth, humility, peace, honesty, punctuality, 
 and all the fruits of the spirit of vital Christianity. 
 
 In a Yearly Meeting of faithful Friends, every religious 
 concern or testimony of Truth that comes before it should be 
 properly and deeply attended to. In the travail of spirit, 
 and exercise of waiting, and moving only in the renewings 
 of Divine life, the minds of Friends would be gathered into 
 the same exercise, and mingle together in solid feeling ; their 
 words might be few and weighty, but they would be strength- 
 ened together; and if Truth opened a channel of communi- 
 cation to the constituent executive branches of society — either 
 
606 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 by epistle or committee — on any particular subject, it would 
 be seen in the light, and Avould be blessed. But if no such 
 channel should be opened, the renewing of the minds of the 
 living members thus mingling together would remain, and be 
 individually carried home to their respective meetings and 
 neighbourhoods, where it would find its proper avenue of use- 
 ful operation, and be carried out in its civil application, for 
 the benefit of others. Every right concern would, under the 
 direction of the light of Truth, find a right course and pro- 
 per channel of usefulness in society — the testimonies of 
 Truth would be supported and exalted — and Yearly Meetings 
 would be seasons of great solemnity, unity, and spiritual 
 refreshment. 
 
 But when (as now) the waters which should be under the 
 firmament are mixed with the waters above the firmament, 
 the Divine order being perverted or not understood, confusion 
 and a want of harmony are often the result. When a Yearly 
 Meeting, after travailing in a religious concern, as a legisla- 
 tive body, till it spreads over the minds of Friends assembled, 
 uniting them in the travail for the promotion of a good work, 
 and then undertakes the executive part of carrying out this 
 concern in its secular or civil application, here is a mixture that 
 very often produces a variety of views and plans — takes off 
 the solid weight of religious exercises, sometimes introduces 
 discordant sentiments and feelings, and opens a door for that 
 kind of human policy and management which obtains among 
 men of the world. Of this class of subjects, having their 
 origin in religious concern proper for a Yearly Meeting to 
 travail in, but mixed with the executive plans of operation, 
 under the imposing authority and supposed weight of influence 
 of such a body, are Yearly Meeting boarding-schools — civil- 
 ization of the Indians — petitioning legislative bodies — having 
 the care and application of charitable donations — real estate, 
 and institutions of a civil but humane and benevolent charac- 
 ter — all of which may be good works, if kept in their proper 
 places, under right government and direction, under the firma- 
 ment of Heaven. 
 
 But in these views I am met by intelligent men who object 
 to the propriety of excluding Yearly Meetings from engaging 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 607 
 
 in these good works. They allege that inasmuch as the zeal, 
 the talents, and religious Aveight and influence of society, are 
 brought together in a Yearly Meeting capacity, it is the pro- 
 per and efficient body to engage in works of benevolence, of 
 mercy, and of general utility. Because, also, that when 
 separated there are so few of this character in any single 
 monthly or even quarterly meeting, that their energies and 
 their influence become paralyzed, and inadequate to the pro- 
 secution of these good works ; they therefore, it is alleged, 
 could not be accomplished on behalf of society, especially 
 where funds are necessary in carrying them on. 
 
 This objection, resulting from long usage, and having a 
 specious appearance, requires a careful examination. We 
 are liable to fall into habits and customs inherited from our 
 ancestors, without proper investigation. The example of the 
 mixture of business in Yearly Meetings, to which I have 
 alluded, was introduced into the Yearly Meeting held in Lon- 
 don not far from the time of George Fox's death. In the de- 
 cline of the society it increased. Yearly Meetings presented 
 addresses to kings and queens. (See Sewel's History, 1702 
 to 1717.) These outside works are often splendid in appear- 
 ance, and carry an imposing aspect to superficial observers. 
 The world admires what appears to be disinterested plans of 
 benevolence — promotion of the public good — works of charity 
 carried out by Yearly Meeting committees — raising large 
 funds by professed voluntary contributions — legacies, &c., for 
 the endowment of public schools and other humane institu- 
 tions — to which may be added, the imposing weight of a 
 whole Yearly Meeting in memorializing legislative bodies, 
 when only one-tenth part, or much less, of the members of 
 society, have any cognizance of the memorial sent in their 
 names. 
 
 I have considered the primary object of holding a Yearly 
 Meeting to be, the consideration, diff"usion, and advancement 
 of those kinds of religious exercise and concern which em- 
 brace the testimonies of Truth, and the promotion of the 
 spiritual health and welfare of the society. There is an excel- 
 lent Christian order and liberty in the Truth recognised in the 
 organization of our meetings for discipline. What we call 
 
608 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 TrutJis testimonies, have their beginnings in society from the 
 little seed sown by the heavenly Husbandman in the minds of 
 his obedient little children. These feel scrujjles or impressions 
 of the Spirit of Truth, as they think, in relation to its pro- 
 gressive discoveries made to their sincere, obedient minds. 
 They travail under these, without making haste; they bear 
 their burdens till the concern becomes ripe for opening to 
 their friends — in the mean time conforming their lives to what 
 they believe is divinely required of them, though it may be 
 somewhat singular from others. But when opened in a 
 monthly meeting, it is, or should be, deliberately considered, 
 weighed in the balance of Truth ; and when its rectitude is 
 felt by the members generally, from the convincement of 
 Truth in their understandings, it having thus spread in this 
 monthly meeting circle of Friends, becomes their concern, 
 and at the proper time may be, and should be, spread before 
 the quarterly meeting. It has now a larger field of mind to 
 spread in ; and may take time for so many to unite in the 
 concern as a right one owned by the Truth. But the ownings 
 or mind of Truth, being the standard of weighing and judging 
 of religious concerns for the reformation and improvement of 
 society, or advancement of its own testimonies, if prejudices 
 and long-established habits of thinking and acting are laid 
 aside, the concern spreads among the faithful and sincere- 
 hearted members, till it embraces the body of the quarterly 
 meeting ; and thus the way opens in unity and harmony to 
 bring it before the Yearly Meeting. Here the sphere is en- 
 larged ; but the faithful, baptized members in attendance, be- 
 ing deep and weighty in their spirits, and feeling after the 
 mind of Truth, in order to promote the real welfare of the 
 body, and the exaltation of the standard of truth and righte- 
 ousness among the human family — after due deliberation, 
 may feel the ownings of Truth in this concern, and in wisdom 
 and prudence be directed in the further spreading of it among 
 all the members of the other quarters ; until at length it ob- 
 tains the unity of the body, and becomes added to the list of 
 its testimonies for the Truth. 
 
 But, in the present state and organization of our religious 
 society, there is another important channel for individual con- 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 609 
 
 cern, in relation to acknowledged principles of righteousness, 
 or testimonies of Truth, to be diffused among the members. 
 An epitome of these principles and testimonies is contained in 
 the queries, the answers to which are intended to give the 
 state of society, in relation to Friends living up to the fulfil- 
 ment or due observance of them, or their delinquency. Here 
 is, or should be, a season of deep religious exercise, and tra- 
 vail of spirit; in which the concerns of faithful Friends be- 
 ing deliberately, and under the influence of Truth, thrown 
 as into general stock, most or all present may be baptized 
 into the concern of rightly-exercised individuals, to their own ' 
 benefit, and the spreading and enlargement of principles and 
 testimonies of Truth, in the society at large, as before ad- 
 verted to. 
 
 Admitting that they were rightly drawn into deep religious 
 concern for the promotion of truth and righteousness, the 
 family of which they are a part would surely open as the first 
 field of labour for diffusing these concerns. 
 
 A Yearly Meeting, or its representatives, a few years ago, 
 among whom were talents, zeal, respectability of character 
 and weight of influence, by its committee, with an ofiicial 
 address to a neighbouring state legislature, endeavoured to 
 avert the passing of a militia law, that was thought to be of 
 an oppressive character to Friends. This legislative body 
 considered their interference as an intrusion, a meddling with 
 state affairs of a civil character, that did not properly belong 
 to a religious society composed of citizens from three or four 
 state governments. They rejected their memorial, and re- 
 garded not their talents nor weight of influence. But after 
 this ineffectual effort in the prosecution of what had been a 
 custom of long standing, a few concerned Friends, who felt 
 the weight of religious exercise, for holding up the principles 
 of peace and the exaltation of our Christian testimony against 
 war and military operations, nfezv, perhaps two or three, went 
 to the legislature under the influence of this concern, and 
 found such place in the minds of the members, that they not 
 only abandoned the contemplated militia law, but took hold 
 of the concern and testimony of these faithful Friends against 
 warlike measures, and introduced a bill for exempting con- 
 39 
 
(310 BEFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 scientious persons from being called on for military trainings. 
 This bill was nearly on the point of being passed into a laAV, 
 and lost only by a very small majority. 
 
 Many more cases of the effect of individual faithfulness 
 might be brought into view. We might cite the example of a 
 Friend now living, who, by being obedient to the concern and 
 requisition of Truth in his own mind, independent of Yearly 
 Meeting appointment and Yearly Meeting committees, has 
 done, and would have done more toward carrying out practi- 
 cally the concern for the civilization and improvement of the 
 ■ Indian natives, than all the labours and reports of committees, 
 and all the plans and operations of Yearly Meetings. Nor 
 would pecuniary means have been lacking in monthly and 
 quarterly meetings, or Friends individually, who felt united 
 with this benevolent concern. Voluntary contributions from 
 those who feel a religious concern for promoting works of 
 charity, of humanity, of Christian sympathy and benevolence, 
 are much more freely given, especially by the poorer class, 
 than when collected under the imposing authority of a Yearly 
 Meeting minute of direction. 
 
 But Avhile Yeaidy Meetings come together and act in this 
 mixture of religious and civil concerns, while our example 
 through the medium of an epistolary correspondence, goes to 
 encourage the same thing in other Yearly Meetings ; while 
 we sit and patiently hear reports and letters read in Yearly 
 Meetings giving a detail of agricultural improvements, quan- 
 tity of lands cultivated, crops gathered or blasted with mil- 
 dew, number of scholars attending schools, moneys expended, 
 mechanics wanted, &c. kc, or reports of embassies to Wash- 
 ington, views of operations in governments, intrigues and 
 fraudulent conduct of speculators, land agents and govern- 
 ment officers, &c. &c. ; Avhile all these and numerous other 
 details are considered as the proper business of Yearly Meet- 
 ings, individual members may be neglecting the occupancy of 
 their gifts, may be looking to these popular means of doing 
 good, these combined efforts to carry on concerns of a benevo- 
 lent character, and so bury their talents in the fair napkin of 
 professed zeal for these general operations, or conceal them 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 611 
 
 under the bushel (the measure) of society prescriptions, pub- 
 lic charities, Yearly Meeting concerns, &c. 
 
 When I look at the effects, even in Yearly Meetings •while 
 sitting, of these mixtures of religious and more civil con- 
 cerns, I glance over a long period of years and not a few 
 solitary cases. When religious testimonies and concerns en- 
 gross the attention of the body (as in our late annual assembly) 
 on the subject of spiritual and public social worship, a deep and 
 feeling exercise is mercifully felt, a harmonious labour for the 
 honour of Truth prevails in many minds. There is edifica- 
 tion, there is a sharpening of one another's best feelings and 
 interests, and evidence is furnished of a right engagement in 
 the proper business of such an assembly. So when other 
 testimonies are under consideration, and are kept distinct 
 from civil matters, the same feeling of united exercise more 
 or less abounds ; but only let some outside builder introduce 
 his ways and means of carrying the religious concern into 
 effect by acts of the Yearly Meeting, and soon the ark jostles, 
 especially if money should be wanted. Let some civil con- 
 cern, growing out of religious feeling, say, sympathy and 
 tender compassion for suffering, oppressed humanity, &c., be 
 proposed as a Yearly Meeting business, a committee ap- 
 pointed to carry this civil application into effect, and how 
 often a Yearly Meeting becomes transformed into a scene of 
 human policy, management, and planning. How often the 
 weight of religious solemnity is dissipated when a proposal is 
 made to memorialize Congress, convention or other political 
 body, in order to obtain their aid in carrying on the exalta- 
 tion of the testimonies of Truth, and the work of righteous- 
 ness in the eai-th. 
 
 It may be that a Yearly Meeting may, under a right re- 
 ligious concern, find its duty to hold up some particular testi- 
 mony of Truth to the eyes of nations, by a written appeal to 
 the Holy Witness in the hearts of others without the pale of 
 our society, as well as within our o^vn borders. But if we 
 neglect our own vineyard and harvest-field, to prune, to dress, 
 to take out the stones, and tares, and briers thereof, so that 
 the pure substance may grow and flourish, we may incur the 
 reproof "Who hath required this at your hands?" In vain 
 
612 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 shall we attempt to carry on the work of reformation without, 
 while "the wedge of gold, the Babylonish garment, and the 
 shekels of silver" remain within our own camp, unattended to, 
 winked at, or even tolerated and encouraged. AVe may slide 
 into a state of self-complacency, we may feed upon our re- 
 spectability of standing in the general community, we may 
 claim to ourselves the purity of our principles, the exalted 
 profession we are making, and be ready to persuade our- 
 selves that the Lord is among us, no very serious evil can be- 
 fall us. But there needs a deep and close search, a narrow 
 scrutiny and minute investigation. If we have more light 
 and a clearer perception and understanding of Divine things, of 
 gospel Truths and gospel order ; if we have been brought out of 
 the bondage of shadows and the shackles of priestcraft ; if our 
 views of the purity, simplicity, and spirituality of the Christian 
 religion are more enlarged, more rational, and more easily 
 understood than other professors of the name of Christ, how 
 greatly does it behoove us to live answerably to this advanced 
 state ! how needful to avail ourselves of the inestimable privi- 
 leges we enjoy ! How awfully are we called upon to cleanse 
 our own houses from all idolatry, and again return to Bethel, 
 where God met with us at the first — again return to the first 
 principles of our holy profession, of our Christian discipline, 
 and care one over another. Oh ! what a field for a Yearly 
 Meeting of deeply concerned Friends to travail in ! But, 
 alas ! my house, my people, my brethren and sisters, are not 
 so with God in their annual gatherings. We are weak. We 
 are children in understanding, whereas we ought to be men. 
 Father of mercies, yet spare thy people, thy living seed, thy 
 deeply baptized little ones, and give not thy heritage to re- 
 proach. Oh ! leave us not in the wilderness, in the mixtures, 
 the briers and thorns ; but gather us, Lord, as from the 
 four winds of heaven, into thy garner of salvation. 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. §13 
 
 PRINCIPLES OF BIRTH-RIGHT MEMBERSHIP. 
 
 Whex Jesus said " Suffer little children to come unto me 
 and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of God ;" I 
 believe this expression may be applied to all who should 
 humble themselves, and come into the meek, docile state of a 
 little child. And he gave this plain, but comprehensive rea- 
 son, because "of such is the kingdom of God." 
 
 Now, I believe that every subject of the kingdom of God, 
 is a member of the church of Christ. Else why did Jesus 
 say, "Suffer" such little children to come unto me? And 
 why did he give the charge <' and forbid them not," hin- 
 der them not from coming unto me ? Why, also, did he give 
 practical demonstration of his love to little children, — humble, 
 teachable minds, — by taking those little ones in his arms and 
 blessing them ? 
 
 Jesus did not say, in regard to those infants, of such will 
 be the kingdom of God, or the church of Christ composed, 
 for he spake in the present tense. He did not call for their 
 godfathers or godmothers, nor inquire whether they had been 
 devoted in baptism to be members of the church of Christ. 
 He did not ask whether their sponsors had solemnly pledged, 
 in the name of the child, that they would renounce the devil 
 and all his works, the pomps and vanities of this wicked 
 world, with all the sinful lusts of the flesh; and that they 
 should keep all God's holy commandments all the days of 
 their lives. No ! he took them as they were, and as all little 
 children come into the world, in a state of pure innocence, 
 meekness and docility, — as they were made by a pure and be- 
 nevolent Creator. 
 
 In the figurative or metaphorical application of the prin- 
 ciple of approbation thus manifested by Jesus, in the case 
 of "little children," there is a perfect consistency and har- 
 mony with his doctrine of the new birth, or birth of the Di- 
 vine life in man. Thus he savs to the unconverted souls : 
 
614 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 " Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye 
 shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven." Again, "Who- 
 soever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, 
 shall in no wise enter therein." Other references were made 
 by Jesus to the state of a little child, as essential for the 
 members of his church to be like. 
 
 Hence I consider it a fair conclusion, deducible from the 
 premises, and the authority of Christ, that innocent little 
 children come into the world in a state of purity of soul, free 
 from all taint or effect of the sin of our first parents, Adam 
 and Eve, and of every intermediate parent through all the 
 successive generations of men. 
 
 As therefore no taint of original sin, and no "total" or 
 even partial "depravity" can attach to the soul of a pure, in- 
 nocent infant, coming into the world created by a pure and 
 holy God, so little children must be considered in that state, 
 as subjects of the kingdom of God and real members of the 
 church of Christ. They need no sprinkling or baptizing with 
 elementary water to wash away a guilt or corruption, of which 
 they are already free and uncontaminated. From all which, 
 it appears clear to my mind, that the Society of Friends, ^ 
 through the illuminating influence of the Spirit of Truth, re-~ 
 garded little children as members of the body or church of 
 Christ ; and, therefore, that they were properly members of 
 the meetings to which the parents belonged, that is, members 
 of the Society of Friends. 
 
 In adopting this principle, there appears to be several im- 
 portant considerations connected with it. The Church of 
 England, so called, had a form and ceremony of initiating 
 infants into their community, by means of the priest's dip- 
 ping the child in water, or sprinkling a little water in its face, 
 and crossing its forehead and repeating a ceremony of words. 
 
 Other societies had some other forms of admitting mem- 
 bers, but generally it was an office assigned to the priests ; 
 and had become a fruitful source of their imposition upon the 
 credulity of the people. Friends coming to see, in the light 
 of Divine truth, the inconsistency of these customs and opi- 
 nions, and their entire opposition to the nature and simplicity 
 of the gospel dispensation, could not conform thereunto for 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 615 
 
 conscience' sake. They saw, as before stated, that innocent 
 infants were in a state of purity which needed not the cere- 
 mony of baptism with water, and the authority of a priest, to 
 make them members of the church of Christ, of whose church 
 they already were ; and their thus declining to have their in- 
 fants baptized, Avas their testimony to the truth of the gospel 
 on this subject. At the same time it was a firm and decided 
 testimony against tlie power and influence of the clergy, and 
 the craft and domination of the priests over the minds and 
 property of the people. 
 
 But Friends did not stop with a negative testimony against 
 the impositions and usurpations of priestcraft, in relation to 
 infants ; they saw a practical duty assigned to parents, in the 
 first place, and the care of society in the next, on the sub- 
 jects connected with a guarded care and religious concern to 
 preserve the purity of infant innocence. Hence, in the edu- 
 cation of their children they were led into great watchfulness 
 and circumspection. The principles of the right education 
 of children, were found to be the emanations of Divine truth ; 
 and as Friends Avaited for and sought the wisdom that cometh 
 from above, they were favoured to see the responsibility rest- 
 ing on them to train up their children in the way they should 
 go, and through Divine assistance they were enabled to dis- 
 charge this important duty to the benefit and preservation of 
 the rising youth. To illustrate the principles of a practical, 
 religious education, a few remarks may be added — 
 
 ox EDUCATION. 
 
 In the account of man, as represented in the second chap- 
 ter of Genesis, it is said " Out of the ground made the Lord 
 God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good 
 for food," It is afterward said, "The man was put into the 
 garden to dress it and to keep it." 
 
 The "garden" and the "ground," are evidently the heart 
 of man, if the allegory is rightly and instructively under- 
 stood ; and these trees that God made to grow are the deve- 
 
616 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 lopments of the seeds planted in the garden by God himself. 
 In dressing this garden, and keeping it clean and in order, 
 Jesus said, " Every plant which my heavenly Father hath not 
 planted shall he rooted up." 
 
 Again in the parable of the field, "Didst not thou sow good 
 seed in thy field? Whence then hath it tares?" The answer 
 was, "An enemy hath done this, while men slept." And 
 again: "A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither 
 can a corrupt or evil tree bring forth good fruit." 
 
 In these references we may trace the subject of education, 
 or the training up of children in the way they should go. 
 
 They are all at first in a state of innocence. It is the 
 spring-time of life. In the garden of every heart, God sows 
 good seed that springs up like plants of his own right hand 
 planting, all good. These he makes to grow, and they are 
 pleasant to the sight ; amiable, lovely, beautiful to behold, 
 and good for food to the immortal mind. 
 
 But among the developments of infant innocence, we find, 
 also, animal passions and propensities. These are the sub- 
 jects of watchful care in parents and care-takers of little 
 children. And this care is represented by dressing, and 
 keeping the garden in such order that the seeds of goodness, 
 or every amiable quality springing up as plants of the hea- 
 venly Father's right hand planting, may not be hindered in 
 their growth and good fruit, by any thing comparable to tares 
 among the pure wheat, or weeds in the garden of the heart, 
 or briers and thorns in the field. 
 
 Men may be said to be asleep when they are unwatchful. 
 If parents do not maintain a steady, watchful care over the 
 innocent, infant mind, its animal passions and natural pro- 
 pensities may spring up and grow strong, unchecked, unre- 
 strained. But the watchful parent who is careful to dress the 
 garden, the nursery, and to keep it innocent, pure, lovely and 
 in right order, is furnished with wisdom, prudence, and dis- 
 cretion to know how to discipline, restrain, regulate, and keep 
 in right order all the passions and inclinations of animal na- 
 ture, that would be likely to obstruct the growth of the good 
 seed, the plants of the heavenly Father's right hand plant- 
 ing. And thus parental duty, honestly performed, brings the 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 617 
 
 infant mind, the innocent little children, to Christ the princi- 
 ple of light and truth within them ; and Heaven blesses the 
 labour, the care, the discipline, the watchfulness, and the 
 prayers of such godly parents, as well as the little children 
 thus nurtured and brought to Him. 
 
 SELECT MEETINGS OF MINISTERS AND ELDERS. 
 
 Among the early converts to Christianity, there was a cer- 
 tain Jew, named Apollos, who was " an eloquent man, and 
 mighty in the Scriptures." This man had come so far in the 
 first rudiments of preparation for the gospel state, as is im- 
 plied in the dispensation of John the Baptist, for thus it is 
 said : "The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son 
 of God, is as it is written in the prophets, Behold I send my 
 messenger before thy face (or appearance) which shall prepare 
 thy way before thee." Mark i. 
 
 Hence it is said of Apollos, that he " was instructed in the 
 way of the Lord,'" "knowing only the baptism of John." 
 Yet in this his incipient state, he became "fervent in the spirit, 
 and spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord." It 
 was in this state of childhood, but of great sincerity, that he 
 was heard by the more experienced Aquila and Priscilla, as 
 "he spake boldly in the synagogue." These more advanced 
 and enlightened members of the church, in great tenderness 
 and kindness toward Apollos, "took him unto them," and in 
 a select opportunity between him and them alone, explained 
 and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly. 
 
 This Christian care of Aquila and Priscilla appears to have 
 been blessed, not only to Apollos in his enlargement of Divine 
 knowledge and understanding in the gospel and " things of 
 God," but it was the means of increasing his usefulness in the 
 exercise of his gift in the ministry, as well as of preserving 
 the unity of the gospel spirit among the disciples and breth- 
 ren. Hence we find that when Apollos was disposed to tra- 
 
(318 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 vel, or felt a concern to go into Achaia, the brethren gave 
 him a certificate, in order to show that he was in unity, and 
 to open his way among the disciples where he came. This 
 had the proper effect ; for those who had believed through 
 grace were helped by his labours ; and further, his services, 
 through the powerful influence of the Spirit sanctifying his 
 eloquence, were effectual to the convincement of the Jews, 
 showing and demonstrating "by the Scriptures, that Jesus 
 was the Christ." 
 
 Had this select opportunity not been had with Apollos, or, 
 being had, found and left Apollos in a confident, self-justify- 
 ing state, able by his eloquent reasoning to confute all the 
 arguments or instructions of the two elders, where might he 
 have run to in his own will ? And where would have been the 
 unity of the one pure gospel Spirit ? But his childlike meek- 
 ness and docility — his willingness to be instructed — brought 
 him near in gospel affection and fellowship with those who 
 were in Christ before him, and he became a powerful waterer 
 of the seed of life ; and the less eloquent but not less deeply- 
 experienced Paul said of him, "We are labourers together." 
 1 Cor. iii. 9. 
 
 AN EXAMIXATION OF THE CUSTOM OF RISING, AND THE 
 MEN UNCOVERING THEIR HEADS IN TIME OF VOCAL 
 SUPPLICATION. 
 
 There is a difference between addressing a person or an 
 assembly of human beings like ourselves, and addressing the 
 invisible Being whom we call God. Men have similar and 
 material organs for hearing, adapted to the reception of vocal 
 sounds ; but God (with reverence be it said) has no material 
 ears to receive articulate and vocal sounds. As he is a Spirit, 
 he hears spiritually, and not materially. Therefore vocal 
 sounds are unnecessary in relation to Him who knows and 
 hears the desires of the sincere heart, without their being 
 vocally uttered. Vocal supplication to this adorable Being 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 619 
 
 must then necessarily have a twofold object. Because words 
 are not needful to induce him to hear, they must have refer- 
 ence to ourselves and our fellow-beings. The object of in- 
 quiry is, what is the relation that vocal prayer has to us, the 
 speaker and the hearers ? 
 
 We perceive a difference in our feelings when a person ad- 
 dresses us in a public discourse, by way of lecture or preaching, 
 and when the Almighty is vocally addressed in our hearing by 
 way of supplication. Whence arises this difference ? Do we 
 conceive it a more solemn and awful act to speak to the invisi- 
 ble, all-knowing, and holy God, than to speak to visible, frail, 
 mortal men ? The general feeling of sensible minds assents 
 to this as a fact that such a difference exists ; and one of its 
 causes is from the reverence due to our great Creator, that is 
 not reckoned in an equal degree due to our fellow-men. To 
 give a significant expression to this feeling of awe and rever- 
 ence toward our great and gracious Benefactor, when he is 
 personally addressed in our presence, we rise on our feet. The 
 very act of rising in reverent adoration of God tends to in- 
 crease the solemnity of our feehngs, and thus prepare our 
 minds for the reception of instruction, comfort, or edification, 
 through the medium of vocal supplication. But this presup- 
 poses vocal supplication to have its origin and qualification, 
 from the immediate operation of the Divine gift in him or her 
 who vocally prays, equally, or even in a greater and clearer 
 degree, than when engaged in living gospel ministry. This is 
 evident, because the feeling of solemn reverence toward God 
 diminishes in the hearers in the progress of the uttering of 
 words addressed to him, in proportion to the lifelessness or 
 formality of the performance ; and though the form of stand- 
 ing, (or, with some, of kneeling,) at the time of public vocal 
 prayer is observed, the edification and comfort is not ex- 
 perienced. 
 
 God has so formed the human frame, that expression is 
 given to numerous feelings of the mind, by means of the elas- 
 ticity of the nervous and muscular parts of our system of 
 organized matter. This expression is almost involuntary in 
 many instances. Thus, the muscles of the eye give expression 
 to joy or grief, pleasure or pain, without the medium of words. 
 
620 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 These indications are heightened by the addition of other mus- 
 cles in the face or countenance acting in concert, to produce 
 a smile, a tear, laughter, grief, sadness, mourning. Other 
 feelings of the mind have corresponding expressions in various 
 ways. Thus, reverence and re^spect were formerly expressed 
 by falling on the earth with the face to the ground. It is also 
 probable that the feelings of reverence and prayer found part 
 of their expression in bending the knees and falling on the 
 earth. Thus, under an awful, reverential feeling, "Moses 
 and Aaron fell on their faces." See Numbers xiv. 5, and xvi. 
 22. Joshua also " fell on his face to the earth," under similar 
 feelings. Many other instances might be adduced of expres- 
 sion by gestures, where words either could not be uttered, or 
 were inadequate to the occasion. 
 
 A person duly impressed with the awfulness and reverence 
 of approaching the omniscient Being, must feel solemn, hum- 
 ble, prostrate ; and when vocal expression is necessary, the 
 corresponding expression of these feelings by the countenance, 
 the position of the body, and uncovering the head, all tend 
 to increase the solemnity, and the reverent humility of the 
 suppliant. 
 
 Now, whether the congregation or company present are 
 considered as uniting in the act of prayer with the one who 
 kneels in vocal supplication ; or whether they are considered 
 as having unity with him or her who vocally addresses the 
 majesty of Heaven — the act of rising and uncovering the 
 head has a tendency to solemnize, and produce or increase a 
 reverent feeling in the minds of all who are duly impressed 
 with the awfulness of calling on Almighty God in vocal sup- 
 plication. If he that vocally prays, and they that hear, are 
 thus brought into greater humility, awfulness, and reverence 
 of the Divine Being by these outward expressions of feeling, 
 surely they are in a better state of preparation to be edified 
 and comforted, than might be the case if he that prays and 
 they that hear all kept their seats, or either or any of them. 
 
 We have before adverted to the circumstance that vocal 
 sounds are unnecessary to him who hears in secret, or 
 knows the secret desires of the heart, without this outward 
 medium. Public, vocal prayer must therefore have special 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 621 
 
 reference to the edification, instruction, consolation, and 
 solemnization of those who are present. That this is the 
 effect of fervent prayer, when vocally uttered under right 
 qualification, there can be no reasonable doubt. It is a 
 solemn occasion, and produces solemn, awful feelings in all 
 who are capable of feeling and participating in the exercise. 
 In proof of the influence of vocal prayer, we will adduce the 
 case of J. McDonald, the murderer of Katharine Kreamer. 
 After he had premeditated the dreadful deed, and announced it 
 to her in the dead of the night, with a murderous weapon in his 
 hand, ready to execute his horrid purpose, he says : " She 
 went to her prayers, while he stood still listening to her." 
 And so softening, if not solemnizing, was the effect on his 
 hard heart, that he altered his purpose, and told her he would 
 spare her life if she would give him what money and other 
 things he wanted. She arose and waited on him ; but when 
 she told him there was no money in the house, his disappoint- 
 ment again roused his malignant feelings, and he executed his 
 cruel purpose. Now, if the awfulness and solemnity of vocal 
 prayer had such an effect on such a desperate, hardened mind 
 for only fifteen minutes or half an hour, how much more bene- 
 ficial, solemnizing, instructive, and lastingly-edifying must it 
 be to minds that are humble, tender, and more susceptible of 
 Divine good. 
 
 There may be a state of such inward purity and spiritual- 
 mindedness attained, wherein no outward form or outward 
 sound may be needful to increase the solemnity, or the atten- 
 tion of the mind to the object of adoration, worship, or prayer. 
 But it is believed, in a mixed assembly there are few of this 
 character in proportion to others, who, from the childish state 
 of their religious experience, need some outward aid to draw 
 their minds into greater reverence, and thereby prepare them 
 for that instruction and edification which the heavenly Father 
 dispenses to his humble and contrite ones. If, therefore, this 
 class of children in religious attainment are benefited, throu";h 
 condescending Goodness, by the custom or act of rising and 
 uncovering the head ; if additional solemnity and reverent 
 awe are the effects on their minds, by means of this outward 
 sign of approaching the majesty of Heaven, surely those of 
 
g22 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 greater experience, wlio may need less of such outward helps, 
 ought to bear "with the weak and childish state of those, for 
 whom Heaven condescends to adapt means for their further- 
 ance in the great attainment of worshipping the Father, in 
 spirit and in truth. 
 
 But objections may arise to the practice of rising in time 
 of vocal supplication in meetings, because those who undertake 
 to ofiFer up vocal prayer, may not be divinely gifted or properly 
 qualified for so awful a part of worship. If no prayers were 
 publicly uttered in the assemblies of the people, but such as 
 carried the evidence of their being rightly authorized — if life 
 and power were felt to accompany the words uttered — perhaps 
 all would be satisfied with the corresponding expression of 
 feeling, in the act of rising and uncovering the head. No 
 noise or interruption to the solemnity would then occur, an 
 increase of reverent awe would be felt to pervade all minds, 
 and public vocal prayer would be edifying, solemnizing, com- 
 fortable and instructive. The words uttered would be often 
 few, powerful, direct to the point, and baptizing or gathering 
 all into the house of prayer. 
 
 But ministers may mistake their gifts and feelings, and 
 thus be induced to ofier vocally what is not divinely called 
 for ; and so either burden tender minds or pray in their own 
 wills, to the scattering rather than the gathering of the minds of 
 the inexperienced children, and hence the practice of rising 
 on such occasions may not have the solemnizing eff"ect in- 
 tended. And through impatience, or for want of a clear dis- 
 cerning, goodly minds may attribute to the custom of rising, 
 an efi'ect that ought to be charged to the want of proper qualifi- 
 cation in him or her, who thus vocally addresses the Holy One. 
 Here we find the need of experienced elders, that can "try 
 words (and spirits too) as the mouth tasteth meat." Ministers 
 who mistake their feelings, and are induced thus to "build 
 altars under every green tree," or appear in vocal prayer 
 from the flash or warmth of their zeal, need careful and prompt 
 admonition from those who discover their mistake. They 
 should bo duly impressed with the awfulness of the weight of 
 responsibility that rests on them, as the instruments of calling 
 on an assembly to rise on their feet in testimony of worship 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 623 
 
 to the Almighty Being to whom all hearts are open. They 
 should be well and livingly assured that their offerings are 
 prepared by God himself, and required by him to be publicly 
 offered, for the help, benefit, and edification of the people, 
 before they attempt to appear in vocal supplication. Were 
 this care and caution duly maintained by ministers, elders and 
 rightly concerned Friends, although there might be much less 
 public vocal praying, there would be less objection to rising 
 and uncovering the head at such solemn seasons : nor would 
 the act of rising disturb, but rather increase the solemnity of 
 the meeting. The baptizing power of Truth would be more 
 livingly felt, and public vocal intercession would furnish seals 
 of order, consolation, and edification to the minds of all who 
 were capable of feeling "where words come from." 
 
 When John Woolman visited the Indians, he says his heart 
 was "filled with a heavenly care for their good," and feeling 
 the current of love run strong, he told the interpreters he 
 believed some of the people would understand him without 
 their aid, so went on in his communication to them, and says 
 he believed "the Holy Ghost wrought on some hearts to edifi- 
 cation, where all the words were not understood." So when 
 he felt the spirit of vocal supplication, he was willing they 
 should omit interpreting; and Papunchang being very tender, 
 said to one of the interpreters, "I love to feel where words 
 come from." If such was the effect on Indians, why are not 
 professing Christians more alive to those feelings of the opera- 
 tion of Divine life and love in their souls? "That which is 
 of God, gathers to God." Oh! for more of a living, inward, 
 spiritual travail of soul, for the arising of that life into do- 
 minion, in which all acceptable worship, preaching and pray- 
 ing is performed. No substitute for this can ever be found 
 in the change of outward forms or modes of worship. And 
 where Divine life accompanies and sanctifies a form, like that 
 of rising in time of vocal supplication, in condescension to the 
 little children of the Father's family, who will say, it had better 
 be renounced as a useless custom? 
 First Month, 21st, 1840. 
 
624 REFLECTIONS, ETC 
 
 « And God divided between the light and the darkness. 
 
 " And God made two great lights : the greater light to rule 
 the day, and the lesser light to rule the night : he made the 
 stars also. 
 
 " And God set them in the firmament of heaven, to give 
 light upon the earth, and to rule over the day and over the 
 night, and to divide the light from the darkness. And God 
 saw that it was good." 
 
 By this act of creation may be beautifully and instructively 
 illustrated the spirituality and reality of the state of the soul 
 of man, in this his probationary mode of being. 
 
 "And God said, Let there be light; and there was light." 
 '•' God, who commanded the light, hath shined in our hearts," 
 says the inspired writer ; and the beneficent object of this 
 shining of light, the manifestation of himself who is LiGHT, 
 is to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God ; 
 and this " in the face (or appearance) of Jesus Christ," (the 
 Divine " Light that lighteth every man that cometh into the 
 world.") 
 
 The diurnal revolution of the material earth or world con- 
 tinually presents this metaphor or figure outwardly to our view. 
 The sun (considered the " greater light") shines by and through . 
 the medium of its own rays, " to give light upon the earth," 
 and "to rule the day." It shines, or difiuses its own unbor- 
 rowed light, emanating from itself only. It is thus far, as to 
 us, the constant symbol of God himself, shining in our hearts 
 to give us the light of the knowledge of himself, and to rule 
 over the heart in its illuminating power and presence, dividing 
 between itself and its opposite — darkness. 
 
 As the material sun, the greater light, by its rays, enables 
 us to distinguish things in the natural world of matter, so the 
 spiritual light, or light of the Holy Spirit of God, discrimi- 
 nates by its shining in the heart of man, among spiritual things 
 that appertain to the soul or spiritual being of man. 
 
 "And God called the light day." Jesus said, "While ye 
 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 625 
 
 have the light, believe in the light ; walk in the light, that ye 
 may be the children of the light, and of the day.'' Again, 
 " I must work the works of Him that sent me while it is day." 
 
 "The Lord's day," and "the day of the Lord," and "the 
 light of the Lord," with numerous other synonymical expres- 
 sions, are used to signify the light of the Spirit of God shin- 
 ing in the soul and enlightening the mind of man, to give 
 knowledge, wisdom, power, and Divine understanding in the 
 things of God, and his kingdom, rule, or government in the 
 soul, that he may work the works of God. But, as in the 
 revolutions of day and night outwardly, so spiritually, as 
 Jesus said, "the night cometh when no man can work." And 
 again, " He that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he 
 goeth." If a man walk in the night he stumbleth, because 
 there is no light in him. 
 
 But, in the metaphor, "the lesser light" (admitted to be 
 the moon) is given to "rule the night;" and, in addition 
 thereto, "he made the stars also." 
 
 When David was divinely enlightened and inspired to speak 
 of this excellent order and provision in the Divine economy, 
 he calls to his fellow-probationers in this emphatic language : 
 " Oh ! give thanks unto the Lord for he is good, for his mercy 
 endureth for ever ; — to Him that by wisdom made the heavens, 
 for his mercy endureth for ever ; — to Him that made great 
 lights, for his mercy endureth for ever ; — the sun to rule by 
 day, for his mercy endureth for ever ; — the moo7i and stars to 
 rule by night, for his mercy endureth for ever." 
 
 David also, in his devotional psalms, when speaking of his 
 own state, describes the night season, " when no man can 
 work ;" but when the moon, by its reflected light, so ruled as to 
 stay his soul in confidence upon God, the ruler of the day, 
 that he could say, " The day is thine ; the night also is thine ; 
 thou hast prepared the light and the sun." Again he says : 
 " In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord : my sore ran in 
 the night and ceased not ; my soul refused to be comforted. 
 I remembered God and was troubled, and my spirit was over- 
 whelmed. I was so troubled that I could not speak. I con- 
 sidered the days of old, the years of ancient times. I call to 
 
 remembrance my song in the night. I commune with mine 
 40 
 
626 REFLECTIONS, ETC. 
 
 own heart, and my spirit made diligent search. Will the Lord 
 cast oflF for ever ? and will he be favourable no more ? Is his 
 mercy clean gone for ever ? Doth his promise fail for ever- 
 more ? Ilath God forgotten to be gracious ? Hath he in 
 anger shut up his tender mercies ? Selah. And I said, This 
 is my infirmity ; but I will remember the years of the right 
 hand of the Most High. I will remember the works of the 
 Lord ; surely I will remember thy wonders of old." 
 
 Can we not perceive in this description of the night season, 
 in David's mind, how the reflected light of the moon calmed 
 and stayed his soul ? Memory recalled or reflected the works 
 of the Lord, the wonders formerly known in the day of the 
 Lord's power ; and his troubled mind was stayed so that he 
 could say to himself, "Why art thou cast down, my soul ! 
 and why art thou disquieted within me ? Trust thou in God, 
 for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance." 
 For in his countenance (his presence) there is light. Sorrow 
 may endure for a night, but joy cometh with the morning, the 
 return of light, and of the day of Divine Power. 
 
APPENDIX. 
 
 AN ADDKESS TO FRIENDS WITHIN THE COMPASS OF THE 
 YEARLY MEETING HELD IN PHILADELPHIA. 
 
 At a meeting of a large number of Friends, from the different branches 
 of the Yearly Meeting held in PhiUidelphia, convened at Green-street 
 meeting-house, on the i9th of the fourth month, 1827, to confer together 
 on the present unsettled state of the Society of Friends, and to consider 
 what measures it may be proper to take, in the openings of Truth, to 
 remedy the distressing evil : after a solemn pause, and under a deep 
 sense of the weighty subject, it vras unitedly concluded to address the 
 members of this Yearly Meeting on the affecting occasion; for which 
 purpose an essay being produced, and some progress made in the con- 
 sideration thereof, the meeting adjourned, to meet again, by Divine per- 
 mission, to-morrow evening. 
 
 Fourth month 20th. — Friends again met, and resumed the considera- 
 tion of the aforesaid Address ; which, after deliberate attention, was, 
 with some alterations, unanimously adopted, when the meeting adjourned, 
 to meet again to-morrow. 
 
 Fourth month 21st. — Friends assembled, pursuant to adjournment. 
 The essay of an Address being again read, and weightily considered, it 
 was agreed that it be signed on behalf of this meeting, and that a 
 suitable number of copies thereof be printed for distribution. 
 
 To Friends within the compass of the Yearli/ Meeting held in Philadelphia. 
 
 Dear Friexds : — The members of the Society of Friends have been 
 permitted, in time past, to be partakers together, under the Divine bless- 
 ing, of the excellent effects produced by the power of that gospel which 
 was professed and lived in by the apostles; and which, after a long 
 night of apostacy, was embraced by our worthy ancestors. We are 
 prepared to record our full conviction that this same gospel continues to 
 be open to us, and to all men, and is " the power of God unto salvation" 
 to those that believe in and obey it. Its blessed fruits are love to God 
 and love to man, manifested in life and conduct : and our early Friends 
 
 627 
 
628 APPENDIX. 
 
 gave ample proofs of the tendency and influence of the " new command- 
 ment" which Christ gave to his disciples Avhen he said: "A new com- 
 mandment I give unto you, that ye love one another : as I have loved 
 you, that ye also love one another." Through an obedience to it, they 
 became known and distinguished ; acting under its sacred influence and 
 government, they were made powerful instruments in opening the door 
 of gospel liberty, and removing many of the fetters that had been formed 
 in the dark night of superstition and error that preceded them. Hence 
 they were prepared to promulgate the glorious truth, that God aloxe is 
 THE SOVEREIGN LORD OF coxsciEXCE, and that with this unalienable 
 right, no power, civil or ecclesiastical, should ever interfere. This 
 blessed liberty was amply enjoyed among themselves ; and through 
 faithfulness — not to speculative opinions, but to the light of Christ 
 within — they were thus united in the one eternal, unchangeable spirit, 
 and by it became of one heart and one mind. In this truly Christian 
 state, they were lights in the world, and as a city set on an hill which 
 cannot be hid. Through their instrumentality, with the blessing of the 
 Almighty upon their labours, our religious society became possessed of 
 this very important spiritual inheritance ; and we feel bound to en- 
 deavour to preserve it, unfettered by the hand of man, and unalloyed 
 with prescribed modes of faith, framed in the will and wisdom of the 
 creature. 
 
 AVith this great object in view, our attention has been turned to the 
 present condition of this Yearly Meeting and its different branches ; and, 
 by evidence on every hand, we are constrained to declare that the unity 
 of this body is interrupted — that a division exists among us, developing 
 in its progress, views which appear incompatible with each other, and 
 feelings averse to a reconciliation. Doctrines held by one part of society, 
 and which we believe to be sound and edifying, are pronounced by the 
 other part to be unsound and spurious. From this has resulted a state 
 of things that has proved destructive of peace and tranquillity, and in 
 which the fruits of love and condescension have been blasted, and the 
 comforts and enjoyments even of social intercourse greatly diminished. 
 Measures have been pursued which we deem oppressive, and in their 
 nature and tendency calculated to undermine and destroy those benefits, 
 to establish and perpetuate which should be the purpose of every religious 
 association. 
 
 It is only under the influence of "the peaceable spirit and wisdom of 
 Jesus" that discipline can be properly administered, or the affairs of the 
 church transacted "with decency" and in order. This blessed influence 
 is a wall of defence, on the right hand and on the left, protecting all, 
 even the weakest of the flock ; and within this sacred enclosure our rights 
 and privileges repose, as in the bosom of society, in perfect security. 
 On this foundation has rested that excellent order which the Society 
 
APPENDIX. 629 
 
 of Friends has been favoured, in a good degree, to maintain in its trans- 
 actions ; this is the bond that has united its members together, and 
 enabled theiu to manage all their concerns in " forbearance and love of 
 each other." But this blessed order has been infringed, both in the pre- 
 sent Yearly Meeting, (producing unexampled disorder'in some of its 
 sittings,) and in many of its subordinate branches, and has proved a 
 fruitful source of the difficulties that now exist. 
 
 It is under a solemn and deliberate view of this painful state of our 
 affairs, that we feel bound to express to you, under a settled conviction 
 of mind, that the period has fully come in which we ought to look toward 
 making a quiet retreat from this scene of confusion, and we therefore 
 recommend to you deeply to weigh the momentous subject, and to adopt 
 such a course as Truth, under solid and solemn deliberation, may point 
 to, in furtherance of this object, that our society may again enjoy the 
 free exercise of its rights and privileges. And we think proper to remind 
 you that we have no new gospel to preach, nor any other foundation to 
 lay than that already laid, and proclaimed by our forefathers, even 
 " Christ within, the hope of glory" — " the power of God, and the wisdom 
 of God." Neither have we any other system of discipline to propose 
 than that which we already possess, believing that whilst we sincerely 
 endeavour to live and walk consistently with our holy profession, and to 
 administer it in the spirit of forbearance and love, it will be found suffi- 
 cient for the government of the church. And whilst we cherish a rea- 
 sonable hope to see our Zion, under the Divine blessing, loosen herself 
 "from the bands of her neck," and put on her strength, and Jerusalem 
 her " beautiful garments," and our annual and other assemblies again 
 crowned with that quietude and peace which become our Christian pro- 
 fession, we feel an ardent desire that in all our proceedings tending to 
 this end, our conduct toward all our brethren may, on every occasion, 
 be marked with love and forbearance ; that when reviled, we bless ; when 
 defamed, we entreat ; and when persecuted, that we suffer it. 
 
 Finally, brethren, we beseech you, " by the name of our Lord Jesus 
 Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions 
 among you ; but that ye be perfectly joined together, in the same mind, 
 and in the same judgment." And, now, we " commend you to God, and 
 to the Word of his Grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you 
 an inheritance among all them which are sanctified." 
 Signed by direction and on behalf of the meeting by — 
 
 John Comlt Joshua Lippincott, 
 
 Robert Moore, John Hunt, 
 
 William Mode, Stephen Stephens, 
 
 Richard Barnard, Joseph G. Rowland, 
 
 John AVatson, (Buckingham.) William Wharton, 
 
630 APPENDIX. 
 
 Having experienced, in the several sittings of this conference, a com- 
 fortable evidence of Divine regard, imparting strength and encourage- 
 ment to look forward to another friendly meeting together, this meeting 
 agrees to adjourn to the first second-day in the sixth month next, at ten 
 o'clock in the morning, at Green-street meeting-house, Philadelphia, 
 if the Lord permit. 
 
 At a general meeting of Friends, held by adjournments, at Green-street 
 meeting-house, in the city of Philadelphia, on the fourth and fifth days 
 of the sixth month, 1827, pursuant to an adjournment in the fourth 
 month last, the follovring epistle was adopted : — 
 
 AN EPISTLE TO FRIENDS OF THE QUARTERLY AND MONTHLY 
 MEETINGS WITHIN THE COMPASS OF THE YEARLY MEET- 
 ING HELD IN PHILADELPHIA. 
 
 Dear Friends : — Having, through Divine favour, been permitted to 
 meet together, pursuant to adjournment in the fourth month last, the 
 state of our religious society was again brought into view. The wing 
 of Ancient Goodness being sensibly extended over the several sittings 
 of this meeting, we have been enabled weightily to consider the subjects 
 that came before us. After solemn deliberation, and a free interchange 
 of sentiment, it was, with much unanimity, agreed to recommend the 
 following views and propositions for your serious consideration. 
 
 The principal objects of our religious association, are the public wor- 
 ship of God ; the edification and comfort of each other ; the strengthen- 
 ing of the weak, and the recovery of those who have wandered from the 
 way of peace and safety. 
 
 It is only under the blessed influence of gospel love that these objects 
 can be attained. Whenever any among us so far forsake this fundor 
 mental principle of our union as to act in the spirit of strife and discord, 
 and to oppose and condemn their brethren who may conscientiously 
 differ from them in opinion, they break the bond of gospel fellowship, 
 and, as far as their influence extends, frustrate the design of religious 
 society. If such, after the use of proper means, cannot be reclaimed, 
 the peace, and harmony, and welfare of the body require tliat they should 
 be separated from our communion. 
 
 The apostle, aware of the evils arising from contention in religious 
 communities, warned his brethren against it, declaring that "where 
 
APPENDIX. 631 
 
 envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work ;" and they 
 were exhorted to withdraw from every brother who walked disorderly. 
 And we know from experience, that wherever this evil spirit has appeared 
 in any of our meetings, weakness, and jealousy, and divisions have been 
 introduced ; and that excellent order has been subverted which has not 
 only preserved us in love and concord, but protected the rights and pri- 
 vileges of all our members. 
 
 With deep concern and sorrow we have observed the introduction and 
 increase of this desolating spirit. It is now about five years since it 
 made its appearance in our hitherto favoured society, so as to become a 
 subject of general concern. For some time it was m.ostly confined to 
 individuals acting as oflicers in the church. In this stage of its progress 
 its consequences were grievous. Some who became infected by it, dis- 
 regarding the wholesome order established by our Yearly Meeting, which 
 directs, in the first place, private labour with such as give cause of con- 
 cern, and afterward, that monthly meetings should treat with them, 
 formed combinations among themselves, unauthorized by the society, and 
 unknown to its discipline. Friends travelling in the ministry, with cer- 
 tificates from their monthly and quarterly meetings, were interrupted in 
 their labours, and in some instances publicly opposed in our meetings 
 for Divine worship. They, and other faithful Friends in the ministry, 
 were unjustly charged with preaching infidel doctrines, denying the 
 Divinity of Christ, and undervaluing the Scriptures ; together with 
 divers other things, generally known to you, and equally unfounded. 
 
 It was not long, however, before the contagion spread, and made its 
 appearance in some of our meetings for discipline, opening to the exer- 
 cised members of the society scenes of the most painful nature. Mea- 
 sures of a party character were introduced, and the established order 
 of society was infringed, by carrying those measures into execution, 
 against the judgment and contrary to the voice of the larger part of 
 Friends present. 
 
 At length the infection, taking a wider range, appeared in our Yearly 
 Meeting, where its deplorable e9"ects were equally conspicuous. Means 
 were recently taken therein to overrule the greater part of the repre- 
 sentatives, and a clerk was imposed upon the meeting without their con- 
 currence or consent. A committee was there appointed to visit the 
 quarterly and monthly meetings, without the unity of the meeting, and 
 contrary to the solid sense and judgment of much the larger number 
 of the members in attendance ; and several important subjects were 
 necessarily dismissed, owing to the disunity and discord prevalent in 
 that body. 
 
 Friends have viewed this state of things among us with deep concern 
 and exercise, patiently waiting in the hope, that time and reflection would 
 convince our brethren of the impropriety of such a course, and that, being 
 
632 APPENDIX. 
 
 favoured to see the evil consequences of such conduct, they might retrace 
 their steps. But hitherto, we have waited in vain. Time and opportu- 
 nity for reflection have been amply afl"orded, but have not produced these 
 desirable results. On the contrary, the spirit of discord and confusion 
 has gained strength ; and to us there now appears no way to regain the 
 harmony and tranquillity of the body, but by withdrawing ourselves — 
 not from the Society of Friends, nor from the exercise of its salutary 
 discipline — but from religious communion with those who have intro- 
 duced, and seem disposed to continue, such disorders among us. 
 
 The quiet and solemnity of our meetings for Divine worship — the 
 blessings of a gospel ministry unshackled by human authority — the pre- 
 servation of our religious liberty — the advancement of our Christian 
 testimonies — and the prosperity of Truth, so far as it is connected with 
 our labours, we believe, very much depend upon the early adoption of this 
 measure. 
 
 We therefore, under a solemn and weighty sense of the importance 
 of this concern, and with ardent desires that all our movements may be 
 under the guidance of Him who only can lead us in safety, have agreed 
 to propose for your consideration, the propriety and expediency of holding 
 a Yearly Meeting for Friends in unity with us, residing within the limits 
 of those quarterly meetings, heretofore represented in the Yearly Meeting 
 held in Philadelphia ; for which purpose, it is recommended that quar- 
 terly and monthly meetings, which may be prepared for such a measure, 
 should appoint representatives to meet in Philadelphia, on the third 
 second-day in the tenth month next, at ten o'clock in the morning, in 
 company with other members favourable to our views, there to hold a 
 Yearly Meeting of men and women Friends, upon the principles of the 
 early professors of our name, and for the same purposes that brought 
 them together in a religious capacity — to exalt the standard of Truth — 
 promote righteousness and peace in the earth — edify the churches — and 
 generally to attend to all such concerns as relate to the welfare of reli- 
 gious society, and the cause of our holy Pvedeemer, who is God over all, 
 blessed for ever. Amen. 
 
 Extracted from the minutes of the aforesaid meeting. 
 
 William Gibbons, l ^. , 
 Benj. Ferris, J 
 
APPENDIX. 633 
 
 AN EPISTLE FROM THE YEARLY MEETING OF FRIENDS, 
 
 Held at Philadelphia, by adjournmenU from the \Zth of the tenth month to 
 the IWi of the same, inclusive, 1827, to the Quarterly, Monthly, and 
 Particular Meetinys of Friends within the compass of the said Yearly 
 Meeting. 
 
 Dear Friends : — Having convened in this Yearly Meeting under very 
 peculiar and trying circumstances, in order to transact the business of the 
 church, our minds have been comforted and strengthened in the evidence 
 afforded that we are still mercifully regarded by our Holy Head, whose 
 heavenly wing has graciously overshadowed this meeting, to the humbling 
 of our spirits ; and tender sympathy has flowed toward our absent 
 brethren and sisters, whom we affectionately salute in the love of the 
 everlasting gospel. 
 
 We fervently desire that all may be increasingly concerned to retire 
 from the noises, the contentions, and the confusions that are in the world 
 — that Ave may individually submit to the government of the Prince 
 of Peace, who gathered our forefathers to be a people, and committed to 
 them important testimonies. 
 
 These testimonies have been felt to be near and dear to us, and a living 
 travail has been known that our Zion may arise and shine in her ancient 
 brightness, as in the morning of the day, when her sons and her 
 daughters were despised and persecuted, yet inherited the blessing pro- 
 nounced by our Divine Master: "Blessed are ye when men shall revile 
 you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you 
 falsely, for my sake." 
 
 Beloved friends, we feel the awful responsibility of our present stand- 
 ing, and the necessity of abiding, individually, in the meekness and sim- 
 plicity of the Truth as it is in Jesus — avoiding all doubtful disputations 
 which engender strife, and earnestly endeavouring to show forth, by a 
 godly life and conversation, that we are his humble followers, who, " when 
 he was reviled, reviled not again," and whose religion enjoins that we 
 resist not evil, but overcome evil with good. 
 
 We believe there never was a period in our society, when it was more 
 important for those who feel bound to the law and the testimony to stand 
 faithful at their posts ; having on " the whole armour of God," which only 
 can protect from the dangers that surround us. But if we keep a single 
 eye to the Captain of our salvation, humbly waiting for him to put forth 
 and go before us, we have nothing to fear — hard things will be made 
 
634 APPENDIX. 
 
 easy, and bitter things sweet; for " greater is he that is in you than he 
 that is in the world." 
 
 In the present agitated state of society, its living members must be led 
 into exercise and suifering ; and we earnestly desire that all may be pre- 
 served in the spirit of patience, gentleness, and forbearance, under every 
 provocation and trial. And in the exercise of the salutary discipline 
 of the church, oh ! that we may seek for aright qualification to treat with 
 offenders in the spirit of restoring love — most carefully guarding against 
 the influence of party feeling, which may, almost imperceptibly, entwine 
 itself in movements professedly designed to support the discipline of 
 society. Let us remember that its original and primary object is to seek 
 and to save — not to destroy. If we in a spirit of violence seize the dis- 
 cipline as a sword, to be wielded in the will and wisdom of man, we 
 thereby depart from our ancient and Christian principle, and wound the 
 cause of Truth and righteousness. 
 
 Our profession is high and holy, and let us be increasingly concerned 
 to walk consistently therewith. The patient sufferings of our faithful 
 predecessors finally established for them an excellent name, even among 
 their persecutors. They held up with practical clearness a peaceable 
 testimony against " wars and fightings," and by a scrupulous adherence 
 to the principles of justice, became proverbial for their integrity. 
 
 In the present afilicting state of things, we feel deeply concerned that 
 their example in these respects may be kept steadily in view — that our 
 religious testimonies may never be wounded by contending for property 
 and asserting our rights ; — that no course be pursued, although sanc- 
 tioned by the laws of the excellent civil government under which we live, 
 that may be at variance with the spirit of that holy Lawgiver, who taught 
 his disciples, " If any man will sue thee at the law and take away thy 
 coat, let him have thy cloak also;" and who set forth his own situation, 
 as it related to this world, when he said, " The foxes have holes, and 
 the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man hath not where to 
 lay his head." 
 
 And we tenderly exhort, that in places where our members constitute 
 the larger part of any meeting, their conduct may be regulated by the 
 rule laid down by our blessed Lord : " Whatsoever ye would that men 
 should do to you, do ye even so to them." 
 
 The discipline under which we act, positively discourages members 
 of our society from suing each other at law. To violate this discipline 
 in a meeting capacity, is not only a departure from our established order, 
 but is calculated to injure us in the eyes of sober inquirers after Truth, 
 and to disturb the peace of our own minds. 
 
 Dearly beloved young friends ! how shall we address you in language 
 sufficiently expressive of the tender solicitude which we feel for your 
 welfare? We arc fully aware that many of you have witnessed scenes 
 
APPENDIX. 635 
 
 of contention, painfully affecting to the inexperienced mind, and calcu- 
 lated to produce the inquiry, " Who shall show us any good ?" But 
 remember, dear children, that truth is truth, though all men forsake it. 
 "The foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, the Lord 
 knoweth them that are his." Although there may have been seasons 
 when, as amidst the raging of the billows, you have been ready to cry 
 out, Lord save us or we perish, yet may you remember that the Almighty 
 Power which rebuked the winds and the waves, is the same that ever it 
 was, and is still graciously disposed to say to the humble, tossed mind, 
 " Peace, be still." 
 
 Retire, then, we entreat you, from all airy speculations on religious 
 subjects — from all light and chaffy conversation. Enter into your closets 
 — shut the door — commune with your own hearts, and be still. Thus 
 you will learn in the school of Christ. Your religious experience will be 
 gradually enlarged, and as you continue humble and obedient, you will 
 be raised up a righteous generation, and will stand as faithful advocates 
 for the law and the testimony of our God. There will arise from among 
 you judges as at the first, and counsellors, as at the beginning. Instead 
 of the fathers there will be the sons, and instead of the mothers there 
 will be the daughters. 
 
 The language of the Meeting for Sufferings, in the introduction to the 
 Book of iijdvices published under the direction of our Yearly Meeting 
 in 1808, appears peculiarly adapted to our present situation, and is as 
 follows : — 
 
 " The following extracts have been compiled for the benefit of the 
 members of our Yearly Meeting, that observing the travail of the church 
 under various concerns which in Divine wisdom have been communicated 
 for its weighty attention, they may be drawn to the principle of life and 
 light manifested in the mind, which points out the path of duty and can 
 alone preserve therein. 
 
 " Our ancient Friends, and their faithful successors to the present day, 
 have earnestly laboured to turn the attention of all to this pure spirit, 
 knowing from experience that it is the means appointed by God for effect- 
 ing our salvation, and the only foundation of all true religion and wor- 
 ship. As by this we have been led into divers testimonies, which have 
 distinguished us from most other professors of the Christian name, we 
 fervently desire that all our members may walk by the same rule, and 
 mind the same thing; thus every one filling his place in the body, we 
 shall grow up into Him in all things who is the Head, even Christ." 
 
 We recommend these advices to the weighty attention of all our 
 members. 
 
 Finally, beloved friends, may we all remember that the gospel of Christ 
 stands not in speculative opinions, nor in the will and wisdom of man, 
 tut in the power of the one true and living God. Our blessed Lord gave 
 
636 APPENDIX. 
 
 ample proof of its simplicity in selecting illiterate fishermen to be among 
 its promulgators. And as we are engaged humbly to abide in this power, 
 no divination nor enchantment can prevail against us. 
 
 " Now unto Ilim that is able to keep you from falling, and to present 
 you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, to the 
 only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, 
 both now and ever. Amen." 
 
 Signed by direction, and on behalf of the meeting, by 
 
 Benjamin Ferris, 
 
 Clerk of the Men's Meeting. 
 Rebecca B. Comly, 
 
 Clerk of the Women's Meeting. 
 
 For the information of Friends, the clerk was directed to add that the 
 Yearly Meeting adjourned to meet again in the city of Philadelphia, on 
 the second second-day in the fourth month next. The meeting of ministers 
 and elders on the seventh-day preceding. Both to begin at ten o'clock 
 in the morning. 
 
 EPISTLE FROM THE YEARLY MEETING OF FRIENDS, 
 
 Held in Philadelplda, hy adjournments from the 14th of tJie fourth month 
 to the ISth of the same, inclusive, 1828. To the Yearly Meeting of 
 Friends held in London. 
 
 Dear Friends : — Having, through Divine favour, been permitted again 
 to assemble in the- capacity of a Yearly Meeting, we have had gratefully 
 to acknowledge the merciful regard of our heavenly Father, baptizing us 
 together into the unity of the one Spirit. Under this precious influence 
 we have been concerned to address you in the love of the gospel of 
 Christ. 
 
 For a long course of years, through the prevailing influence of Chris- 
 tian love. Friends had been enabled to stand a united body, and prosecute 
 their religious concerns in harmony and mutual condescension. From a 
 variety of causes, originating, as we believe, in unfliithfulness to the clear 
 discoveries of that heavenly light which eminently dawned on our society 
 in the beginning, this blessed harmony has been interrupted. In this 
 part of the vineyard, that Divine charity which stands pre-eminent 
 among the fruits of the Holy Spirit, was very much lost, and a spirit of 
 judgment, out of the Truth, usurped its place, producing divisions and 
 contentions, not only destructive to the peace of the church, but subver- 
 sive of its order and discipline. 
 
APPENDIX. 637 
 
 In this very afflictive state of society, its deeply exercised members, 
 appealing from the partial tribunal of human decision to the merciful 
 seat of Divine judgment, where purity of motive always finds acceptance, 
 and bowing in awfulness and humility before Him who has promised to 
 lead his devoted children " in paths that they have not known," they 
 were favoured to discover a way cast up for their deliverance. It is with 
 unfeigned gratitude to the God of all our sure mercies we are bound to 
 acknowledge that he not only opened the way, but led us on step by 
 step, and endued us with power to advance therein, until he has brought 
 us, as a people, into the possession of love, and harmony, and peace. 
 
 Under these circumstances, the present Yearly Meeting has convened, 
 in which a united travail has been experienced, that through faithfulness 
 to the power of the heavenly principle, Zion may arise and shine ; that 
 she may shake herself from the dust of the earth, and put on the beauti- 
 ful garments of humility, purity and love; that the present time may not 
 only be memorable as a period of trial and affliction, but as the dawning 
 of a brighter and more glorious day. And, dear friends, if this should 
 not prove the happy result of our present exercises, we are assured the 
 fault will be our own ; because we believe that God has arisen, in great 
 mercy, to shake terribly the earth ; and not the earth only, but the 
 heavens also, in order that those things only which cannot be shaken, may 
 remain. And we have indubitable evidence that he is visiting his people 
 with renewed manifestations of his love and power — calling them away 
 from the vain customs of a luxurious age — from the sordid pursuits and 
 deadening gratifications of this world — from the airy speculations of the 
 professors of an outward religion to the one lioJij principle of Divine life 
 and light in /7(e7«,9e/fe.?, which is the only means of salvation, the unlimited 
 word of grace and truth, that can alone build us up in the true faith, and 
 give us an inheritance among them that are sanctified. 
 
 It is this Divine principle ruling in the heart, and producing its proper 
 influence in life and conversation, which is the bond and cement of our 
 religious society. From this source have flowed those feelings of brotherly 
 kindness and condescension that characterized our worthy predecessors, 
 and united them together in one body, with a capacity to edify itself in 
 love. A departure from this fundamental principle and bond of our 
 union, has, in this as in former ages, involved the church in darkness and 
 distress. It is only by a hearty return, and unqualified submission to its 
 sanctifying power, that we can be restored to the blessed privileges and 
 heavenly enjoyment of the gospel state. 
 
 In this day of shaking among the nations, we believe an awakening 
 call from the highest authority has gone forth, addressed to the professors 
 of the Christian name, saying, Come out of Babylon, my people; retire 
 from the confusion that is in the world; turn inward to the gift of Divine 
 grace; tarry, as at Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from ou 
 
638 APPENDIX. 
 
 high. By obedience to this heavenly call, they would be qualified to 
 come forth as witnesses to the purity and spirituality of the gospel 
 of Christ, which stands not in word but in power; and by faithfully 
 abiding under its influence, would be enabled to carry on the glorious 
 work of reformation in his church. 
 
 This Yearly Meeting has been large, and graciously owned by the 
 Divine presence, to the humbling of our souls ; and with gratitude of heart 
 we can acknowledge that he has united us together in brotherly affection, 
 wherein we have been enabled to transact the affairs of the society in 
 much harmony and condescension. The present state of our Yearly 
 Meeting has engaged our deliberate attention, and much lively and per- 
 tinent counsel has been administered in the authority of Truth, exciting 
 Friends to support our Christian testimonies with faithfulness, and to 
 administer the discipline in the restoring and healing spirit of gospel 
 love. We have had the company of a number of our dear friends from 
 adjacent Yearly Meetings, to our edification and comfort. With the 
 salutation of love unfeigned, we are your friends. 
 
 Signed, on behalf and by direction of the aforesaid Yearly Meeting, 
 
 Benjamin Ferris, ] 
 Rebecca B. Comlt, j 
 
 Clerks. 
 
 EPISTLE FROM THE YEARLY MEETING OF FRIENDS, 
 
 Held in PhiladelpJiia, by adjournments, from the 12th of the fourth month 
 to the VI th oftlve same, inclusive, 1830. To the Yearly Meeting of Friends 
 held in London. 
 
 Dear Friends : — Your communication, under cover of a letter from 
 Josiah Forster to the clerk of this meeting, was duly received ; and, not- 
 withstanding the obstacles you have placed in the way of our commu- 
 nion, we have thought it right, on mature deliberation, again to address 
 you in the language of brotherly love, with desires that, on further 
 reflection, you may be induced to open the channel of Christian inter- 
 course between us. 
 
 On looking over the annals of our religious society, it is pleasing to 
 perceive that for more than one hundred and forty years the Yearly Meet- 
 ing of London and that of Pennsylvania preserved the most cordial rela- 
 tions. During this time an aflectionate interchange of their views and 
 sentiments was maintained, to their mutual edification and comfort, bind- 
 ing them more firmly together in the bonds of gospel fellowship. Greatly 
 desiring to preserve such an intercourse uninterrupted, this meeting, in 
 
APPENDIX. 639 
 
 the fourth month, 1828, addressed to you an affectionate epistle, in which 
 •we adverted to the division which had taken place in the Yearly Meeting 
 of Philadelphia, and stated our views of the causes which had led to that 
 event. We did this in the hope that by making you acquainted with our 
 case as we understood it ourselves, you might be preserved from any im- 
 proper bias, and be induced to suspend your decision on the subject, 
 until time and a further investigation of circumstances might enable 
 you to form an impartial judgment. By your answer to this friendly 
 effort for the preservation of harmony between us, we perceive, that on 
 the exfarte evidence of a committee, acting as the representatives of a 
 small minority of Friends in this section of our country, you have pro- 
 nounced us "separatists," and have declared it the judgment of your 
 meeting, " neither to read, nor accept the communication" we sent you ! 
 
 We would affectionately request you to review the course you have 
 adopted on this occasion ; to consider whether it comports with the pre- 
 cepts of the Christian religion — the practice of early Friends — or even 
 with common justice — to condemn your brethren and sisters unheard. 
 "Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to 
 them." (Matt. vii. 12.) This is the positive precept of Christ, whose 
 friends we are only so far as we do whatsoever he commands us. By 
 this act, if you persevere in the course you have prescribed, you will cut 
 yourselves off from religious communion with upward of eighteen thou- 
 sand of your fellow-professors of the gospel of Christ within this one 
 Yearly Meeting ! You will separate yourselves from a religious commu- 
 nity whose aim is to exalt the standard of Truth and righteousness ; 
 whose ardent desire is to promote peace on earth and good-will to men. 
 
 We are aware, dear friends, that our opponents have pronounced us 
 infidels and deists ! They have said we have departed from the Christian 
 faith, and renounced the religion of our worthy predecessors in the Truth. 
 Nothing is easier than to make such charges as these ; but, in the present 
 case, we are happily assured that nothing is harder than to prove them. 
 We are not sensible of any dereliction on our part from the principles 
 laid down by our blessed Lord. The history of the birth, life, acts, death, 
 and resurrection of the holy Jesus, as in the volume of the book it is 
 written of him, we reverently believe. " AYe are not ashamed of the gospel 
 of Christ, because it is the power of God unto salvation to all them that 
 believe." Neither do we hesitate to acknowledge the divinity of its author ; 
 because we know from living experience that he is the potoer of God and 
 the icisdom of God; that, under the present glorious dispensation, he is the 
 one holy principle of Divine life and light — the unlimited word of grace 
 and truth, which only can build us up in the true faith, and give us an 
 inheritance among all those who are sanctified. 
 
 Neither are we sensible of any departure from the faith or principles 
 of our primitive Friends. We are not ignorant that on some points of a 
 
640 APPENDIX. 
 
 speculative nature, they had different views, and expressed themselves 
 diversel}- ; but notwithstanding this was the case, such were the abound- 
 ings of the love of God and of one another, that these differences did not 
 interrupt the excellent harmony that existed among them. In the fun- 
 damental principle of the Christian faith, " the light of Christ within, as 
 God's gift for man's salvation," and which, as William Penn declares, 
 " is as the root of the goodly tree of doctrines, which grew and branched 
 out from it," tfiey were all united. And in that which united them we are 
 united with them ; believing in the same fundamental principle, and in all 
 the Messed doctrines which grow from it as their root, both as they are laid 
 down in the Scriptures of Truth, and in their writings ; desiring above 
 all things the growth and advancement of this principle in ourselves, and 
 in the world at large. 
 
 The peculiar testimonies which the Society of Friends have borne from 
 the beginning, are near and dear to us ; not only because of the blessed 
 Root from which they spring, but because we believe, that as they are 
 faithfully supported, they will be a means of advancing that glorious 
 day, spoken of by the Lord's prophets, when the people " shall beat their 
 swords into ploughshares, and their spears into pruning-hooks ; when 
 nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn 
 war any more ; but they shall sit, every man under his vine and under 
 his fig-tree, and none shall make them afraid." (Mic. iv. 4.) 
 
 The charges brought against us by our opposers, to injure and invali- 
 date our character as a Christian people, are the same that were preferred 
 against our primitive Friends; and, we apprehend, upon the same 
 gi'ounds. In that day, those who, like Diotrephes, loved to have the pre- 
 eminence, could not bear to see a people rising up and bearing testimony 
 to the truth and practical importance of that humbling doctrine, "Be not 
 ye called Rabbi ; for one is your master, even Christ, and all ye are 
 brethren." {Matt, xxiii. 8.) We do not believe that the dissensions which 
 have appeared among us, had their origin so much in differences of 
 opinion on doctrinal points, as in a disposition, apparent in some, to 
 exercise an oppressive authority in the church. These, in our meetings 
 for discipline, although a small minority of the whole, assumed the 
 power to direct a course of measures, painful to the feelings and con- 
 trary to the deliberate judgment of their brethren. Thus the few 
 usurped a power over the many, subversive of our established order, and 
 destructive to the peace and harmony of society. After long and patient 
 forbearance, in the hope that our opposing brethren might see the impro- 
 priety of such a course, the great body of the Yearly Meeting saw no 
 way to regain a state of tranquillity, but by a disconnection with those 
 who had produced, and were promoting such disorders among us. 
 
 After much painful exercise on our part, through all which we had 
 abundant evidence of the extension of Divine regard, affording strength 
 
APPENDIX. 641 
 
 proportioned to the labour of the day — such a disconnection was effected. 
 And, -with gratitude to our heavenly Father, we are now enabled to say, 
 that harmony and brotherly lovo abound among us ; under the feeling 
 of which, we have often experienced the Divine presence to be the crown 
 and diadem of our solemn assemblies. 
 
 By official accounts (which we believe to be nearly correct) from all 
 parts of this Yearly Meeting, it appears that out of about tioenttj-five 
 thousand adults and children, which composed it at the time of the divi- 
 sion, about eighteen thousand remain in connection with this body. 
 
 Finally, brethren and sisters, we are concerned to express, in the lan- 
 guage of the apostle, the desire for ourselves and for you, that we may 
 " give all diligence to add to our faith virtue ; and to virtue, knowledge; 
 and to knowledge, temperance ; and to temperance, patience ; and to 
 patience, godliness ; and to godliness, brotherly kindness ; and to bro- 
 therly kindness, charity." For if these things be in us, and abound, 
 they will make us that we shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the 
 knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 
 
 With the salutation of love, we remain your friends. 
 
 Signed by direction, and on behalf of said meeting, by 
 
 JouN CoMLY, 
 
 Clerk to the Men's Meeting. 
 
 LUCRETIA MOTT, 
 
 Clerk to the Women's Meeting. 
 
 FROM OUR YEARLY MEETING OF MINISTERS AND ELDERS, 
 
 Held in Philadelphia, hij adjournments, from the Wi day of the fourth 
 month, to the \&th of the same, inclusive, 1831. To the Quarterly and 
 Preparative Meetings of Ministers and Elders belonging thereto. 
 
 Dear Friends : — Through the several sittings of this meeting, a living 
 exercise and travail have been felt for the welfare and preservation of 
 the members of this part of the family ; that our lights may so shine with 
 clearness and brightness, that others, seeing our good works, and wit- 
 nessing our chaste conversation, coupled with fear, may glorify the Father, 
 through the help and encouragement administered by means of our 
 example and labours of love. 
 
 We have witnessed a season of awful shaking and scattering. We 
 
 have also known deliverance by the outstretched arm of Divine mercy 
 
 and goodness. Oh I let us not forget his works, and the marvellous 
 41 
 
642 APPENDIX. 
 
 things he hath done for us ; nor yet our covenants in the day of sore 
 trial. 
 
 It is believed to be of great importance to ourselves, and to the flock 
 and family at large, that ministers and elders should keep their ranks in 
 righteousness, in stability, in patience, and in the unity of the Spirit, 
 which is the bond of peace. And how shall this firmness be maintained 
 60 as to be a blessing to others, and especially to the dear visited children, 
 as well as the unstable and wavering, but by a steadfast, upright walking 
 before them, and a faithful discharge of those duties which, in our seve- 
 ral stations, and according to the gifts conferred on us, the Head of the 
 church hath designed for the edification of the body ? 
 
 Among these duties, we feel engaged to encourage all our members 
 who are of ability, to the diligent attendance of all our religious meetings, 
 both for worship and for the exercise of the discipline ; and also, to set a 
 good example in this reasonable service, by bringing our families, as 
 much as may be, and encouraging others to the faithful maintenance of 
 this testimony of our love to God and one unto another. Where any remiss- 
 ness appears on this subject, it is of discouraging and weakening ten- 
 dency, and demands the exercise of tender sympathy and brotherly care, 
 tending to heal and restore, like the precious ointment poured upon the 
 head of Aaron. 
 
 In the exercises prevailing in this meeting on the subject of the 
 ministry, we have felt ardently desirous that the blessings of a free, 
 gospel ministry, may be continued among us. The primary institution 
 of these meetings of ministers and elders, we believe to have been in 
 the wisdom of Truth, that a living, baptizing ministry might be pre- 
 served in the church ; and that those who are called to the exercise of the 
 gift, may be preachers of righteousness in life and conduct as well as in 
 public testimony. 
 
 " Let the prophets speak, two or three, and let the others judge." 
 Where the gift is exercised in the assemblies of the people, in the fresh 
 openings of life, and in the ability which God immediately furnishes, it 
 answers to the life in those that hear, if there is no obstruction. The 
 tendency of a living ministry is to gather and solemnize the minds of the 
 people ; but where any thing to the contrary appears, it is an evidence 
 that something is wanting, that some obstruction exists, either in the 
 speaker or the hearers. If the meeting is not solemnized, is it likely it 
 can be edified in love ? We stand in awfully responsible stations in this 
 respect. It requires the putting ofi" all our own wisdom and mere crea- 
 turely activity, in order that the pure feeling of Divine life may be un- 
 obstructed, the cause of defection discovered, and a remedy applied in 
 the wisdom that cometh from above. 
 
 May we ever remember, dear friends, that it is only that which is of 
 God, that gathers to God. How needful, then, that ministers should be 
 
APPENDIX. 643 
 
 •watchful and weighty in their spirits, keeping the eye single to the 
 Divine guide, and thus move only as the light gives a clear opening ; and 
 when it putteth forth and goeth before, that they follow it faithfully and 
 carefully, and attend to its closing as well as opening. In this watchful 
 state all would be preserved from extending their communications beyond 
 the life, and from burdening or standing in the way of others. 
 
 From the feeling of renewed concern for the health and welfare of the 
 body at large, as well as the preservation of those who apprehend them- 
 selves sometimes called upon to act as mouth to the people, we affection- 
 ately call their attention to a renewed consideration of the subject of public, 
 vocal supplication. How awful, how solemn the responsibility attached to 
 the exercise of this gift ! especially when a whole assembly, composed of 
 various states and feelings, are expected to manifest their unity there- 
 with ! Hove needful to dwell deep in the pure travail, and to know the 
 clear discerning between the operations of the pure gift and the warmth 
 of our own feelings ; lest we should compass ourselves about with sparks 
 of our own kindling, and thereby our offerings not profit the people nor 
 our own souls. 
 
 We know the holy One does not need vocal sounds in order to reach 
 his holy ear. We believe he graciously regards the prayer in secret 
 which is offered in his name ; and we desire for all that this gather- 
 ing into the name and vital spirit of prayer, may more and more abound. 
 It is a precious habitation ; and we believe the call is going foi-th to the 
 livingly- exercised members of the church, that they gather to the state 
 of pure, inward prayer, and their dwelling is safe. We are far from 
 intending to discourage any rightly-qualified mind, when called to the 
 exercise of the gift of vocal supplication. Our concern is for the pre- 
 servation of the pure life — the support of order — ^the unity of the body, 
 and the welfare of every member ; and that, while we rejoice in the 
 labours that tend to the gathering, the settlement, the comfort and edifi- 
 cation of our religious meetings, we may carefully guard against every 
 thing of a contrary nature. 
 
 There are dangers and temptations which require not only our indi- 
 vidual watchfulness to avoid, but also the " watching over one another 
 for good." And herein ministers and elders who dwell together in unity 
 may be greatly helpful, not only to one another, but also to others, and 
 particularly to those young in the ministry, " to help them forward in 
 the right line." Oh ! let these be the objects of our tender care and 
 sympathy. Though the order and discipline of our religious society do 
 not admit of their being introduced into the regular meetings of minis- 
 ters and elders, until they are acknowledged by their monthly and select 
 quarterly meetings, yet the order and law of pure love, rightly exercised, 
 will be sufficient to meet their various cases ; not only prudelitly and ten- 
 derly to discourage " forward spirits that run into words without life" 
 
644 APPENDIX. 
 
 and savour, but also "to speak a word in seasoii to them that are 
 weary," and to lay on the gentle hand of encouragement, by which the 
 spirit of right dedication may be increased. Thus not only these, but all 
 may be preserved in the holy order of the gospel, and learn to distinguish 
 between openings that may be for their own benefit and instruction, and 
 those designed for communication to the people. A due regard for one 
 another's services, and a care not improperly to make additions after the 
 meeting has been well left, will be maintained, and a harmonious labour 
 for the honour of Truth will be witnessed. 
 
 An exercise has been felt that elders may be deep and weighty in their 
 spirits ; and that they may seek and wait for the holy anointing to qualify 
 them to fill the station with dignity and propriety, with advantage to 
 themselves, to ministers, and to meetings. It is believed that much 
 depends on the upright example, the solid deportment, and the faithful 
 occupancy of the gifts and qualifications of these, toward promoting the 
 health and settlement of the body, the maintenance of discipline and 
 order in the church, and the preservation of a living ministry. Dear 
 elders, "be ye therefore steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the 
 work of the Lord ; forasmuch as ye know, that" however trials and suflfer- 
 ings for the body's sake may attend you, yet " your labours in the Lord 
 are not in vain." 
 
 We have felt living desires that all may dwell in that life and power 
 which gives ability to labour for the good of one another — for the health, 
 the peace, and the unity of the church — that we may be as ensamples 
 to the flock, and our lives and conversations among men clean and 
 blameless, adorning our profession ; and that, by manifesting the fruits 
 of uprightness, temperance, and moderation in all things, we may remove 
 the stumbling-blocks out of the way of the people. Thus, maintaining 
 the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, among ourselves and with 
 the meetings we belong to, we shall be qualified to act our part faith- 
 fully in support of the discipline and order of our religious society, and 
 to exercise a godly care for the restoration of all who may wander from 
 the path of peace and safety. The precious testimonies of Truth may 
 thus be advanced and supported with consistency, and Zion arise and 
 shake herself from the dust of the earth, and more and more put on her 
 beautiful garments, and become the joy of many generations. 
 
 In the love of the gospel we afi"ectionately salute you. 
 
 Signed on behalf and by direction of the meeting aforesaid, by — 
 
 Halliday Jackson, Clerk. 
 
APPENDIX. 645 
 
 NOTE REFERRED TO ON PAGE 329. 
 
 The Southern iiuartorly meeting had appointed new representatives 
 to the fleeting for Sufferings, but in that body the dominant party con- 
 tended that they held their stations by a permanent appointment; and 
 the old representatives of the Southern quarter being thus encouraged, 
 refused to give up their seats. 
 
 They maintained that the usage of the society for a long period, in 
 continuing the same members of the Meeting for Sufferings without 
 reappointment, had virtually denied to the quarterly meeting the power 
 of changing their representatives. This, however, was an erroneous 
 conclusion, as appears by the following minute of Philadelphia Yearly 
 Meeting, held 17G1. 
 
 Joseph Turner, in his letter containing the following extract, says : — 
 " These extracts appear to be in the handwriting of James Pembertou, 
 who was clerk to the [Yearly] Meeting that year, [17G1.] I shall give 
 the words verbatim." 
 
 Extracts from the Miimies of the Yearly Meeting for Pennsylvania and 
 New Jersey, held at Philadelphia, by adjournments from the IWi day 
 of the ninth month, 1761, to the ZOth of the same, inclusive. 
 
 " Began business on the 2Gth, at the meeting-house in Pine street, at 
 three o'clock in the afternoon, after a seasonable time of silence and 
 supplication. 
 
 " On the 29th, the minutes of the Meeting for Sufferings, for the year 
 past, being laid before this meeting, were, by direction, read over, and 
 Friends expressed their satisfaction with the proceedings thereof, and 
 agreed to continue the said meeting in the same manner it is now con- 
 stituted, reserving to each quarterly meeting their privilege of changing 
 their representatives when they may think proper." 
 
 Extracted and compared with the original minutes, by 
 
 James Pemberton, 
 Clerk to the Meeting this year. 
 Copy examined by 
 
 George Church 
 
 • '5y ) 
 
 MAN. j 
 
 THE END. 
 
0035522-160 
 
 958.96 
 C735 
 
 066S^H^5