JOSEPH M. TRUMAN, JR., PHILADELPHIA. JVo. rno. IS A " If thou art borrowed by a friend, A Right welcome shall he be, X To read, to study, not to lend, y But to return to me ; X "Not that imparted knowledge doth v Diminish learning's store, 0 But books, I find, if often lent, A Return to me no more. '.'¦ "Read slowly, Pause frequently, Think seriously. Keep cleanly, return duly V" with the corner of the leaves not turned down,' RULES OF DISCIPLINE YEARLY MEETING FRIENDS, HELD IN PHILADELPHIA. STEREOTYPED FOR THE YEARLY MEETING. PHILADELPHIA: PRINTED BY DIRECTION OF THE REPRESENTATIVE COMMITTEE OR MEETING FOR SUFFERINGS. 1869. It is necessary to observe that the dates in this edition denote the years in which those portions were issued or altered by the Yearly Meeting > where no dates are affixed, the paragraph stands as in the edition of 1806. INTRODUCTION. As it hath pleased the Lord in these latter days, by his spirit and power, to gather a people to himself; and, releasing them from the impositions and teach ings of men, to inspire them with degrees of the same universal love and good-will by which the dispensa tion of the gospel was ushered in, — these have been engaged to meet together for the worship of God in Spirit, according to the direction of the holy Law giver ; as also for the exercise of a tender care over each other, that all may be preserved in unity of faith and practice, answerable to the description which He the ever-blessed Shepherd gave of his flock, " By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." John xiii. 35. For this important end, and as an exterior hedge of preservation to us, against the many temptations and dangers, to which our situation in this world ex- 4 INTRODUCTION. poses us, the following rules have been occasionally adopted by the Society, and now form our code of dis cipline. In the exercise whereof it is to be observed, that if any member be found in a conduct subversive of its order, or repugnant to the testimonies which we believe we are intrusted with for the promotion of Truth in the earth, it becomes our indispensable duty to treat with such, in meekness and brotherly com passion, without unnecessary delay or improper expo sure; according to the direction of our Lord to his church, " If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault, between thee and him alone : if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three wit nesses, every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it to the church ; but if he neglect to hear the church, let him' be unto thee as an heathen-man and a publican." Matt. chap. xviii. 15, 16, 17. This is the extent of the Society's censure against irreclaimable offenders, they are disowned as mem bers of our religious community; which is recom mended to be done in such a disposition of mind, as may convince them, that we sincerely desire their recovery and restoration, " considering ourselves, lest we also be tempted." Gal. vi. 1. INTRODUCTION. 5 For the more regular and effectual support of this order of the Society, beside the usual meetings for the purpose of Divine worship, others are instituted sub ordinate to each other; such as, First. Preparative meetings; which commonly consist of the members of a meeting for worship. Second. Monthly meetings; each of which commonly consists of several prepa rative meetings. Third. Quarterly meetings; each of which consists of several of the monthly meetings. And Fourth. The Yearly Meeting, which comprises the whole. These meetings have all distinct allotments of ser vice. And as experience shows that when this ser vice is attended to in uprightness, and dedication of heart, with a single eye to the honour of our Holy Head, and the help and edification one of another, in the love wherewith he has loved us, our assemblies are often favoured with his aid and direction, — Friends are affectionately desired and exhorted to be diligent in the attendance of them ; and when met, humbly seek to be clothed with the spirit of wisdom and charity. This will divest the mind of a depend ence on our own strength and abilities, endue us with patience and condescension towards each other ; and, being preserved in fellowship, agreeably to our Lord's declaration, " One is your master, even Christ, and all ye are brethren," a qualification will be experienced in 6 INTRODUCTION. our several stations and movements, to build up one another in that faith which works by love to the purifying of the heart. So may we be living members of the Church mili tant on earth; and inhabitants of that city which hath foundations, whose maker and builder the Lord is ; knowing indeed with exceeding joy, that great is He the Holy One of Israel in the midst of her. RULES OF DISCIPLINE. APPEALS. If any( prergon^&- dissatisfied with, or think Notice to themselves aggrieved by the judgment of a Meeting. monthly meeting, they may, after a, copy of the testimony is delivered to ih&m, notify the first or second meeting (but no other) of their intention of appealing to the ensuing Quarterly meeting : which notification the monthly meet- Monthly ing should enter on iffc* minutes, and appoint >iction!g .four or -jnore^Friends to attend^the Quarterly f mee ting witn that, /and copies of the minutes of the Tis^^e^sg^s^&^r^etin^ relative to the case, signed by the cfe33v©E clerks; there to show the reasons whereon that judgment was founded, and submitting it to the said meeting. The Quarterly meeting is then to Quarterly refer the same to a §ifj$ft committee of Friends action. (omitting those of the monthly meeting from which the appeal comes) and to confirm or re verse the said judgment, as, on impartial deli beration, shall appear to be right, taking care to inform the parties of the result. 7 O ARBITRATIONS. . *'. Yearly If such appellant is dissatisfied with the action. judgment of a Quarterly meeting also; and, on being informed thereof, shall notify that or the Sext (but not afterwards) of t^^j intention to apply fo the Yearly Meeting tor a .fujther hearing, the said Quarterly meeting,1 aftSr re- ' cording such notification, is in like manner to appoint at leasfcjjMfc. Friends, to attend the Yearly Meeting with copies of the records of both the monthly and Quarterly meetings in the case, signed by their clerks. Here it is to be finally determined, and a copy of the de termination is to be sent to the meeting from which the appeal came. ARBITRATIONS. If occasions of differences arise between any of our members about their property, it is recommended that the parties proceed in the following manner : *£> Mode pre- Let the party who thinks him or herself as- ecnbedfor - , , , . ° settlement grieved, calmly and kindly request the other ences.,ffer" to comply with the demand; and, if this be disputed, the complainant, or if he or she lives at too great a distance, some Friend whom ARBITRATIONS. they may authorize, should take with him.bne or two of the overseers, or other discreet Friends, and in their presence repeat the de- smand. If this step also fails of the desired effect, Reference j . . . .to arbitra ge parties should be advised to choose a suit- tion advis able number of Friends as arbitrators, and e " mutually engage by, bond, or other written instrument adapted to the occasion, to abide byltheir determination. Should this proposal be acceded to, and Duty of ar- arbitrators accordingly chosen, they ought, as speedily as circumstances will admit, to appoint time and place, and attend to the business without unnecessary delay; giving the parties a fair and full' hearing in the presence of each other, but listening to neither of them apart, nor suffering their own sentiments to be known abroad \-ill they have fully digested the subject, and come to a clear decision ; which they should be careful to do within the time agreed on. But, if either of the said parties shall refuse Either to submit the matter in dispute to arbitrators, complying or, when that is done, neglect to give his or her pia^ed° of attendance when desired, without a sufficient t0 thf, . \ . . . . monthly reason being assigned, or not abide by their meeting. award when, issued; in either of those cases, the offender') should be complained of to the 10 ARBITRATIONS. monthly meeting of which he or she is a mem- An errone- ber ; and, if they cannot be brought to a sense just award of their error, the said meeting should declare rehearing ^& disunion with them; unless such person make it evident to the satisfaction of the said meeting, that the award is erroneous or unjust. In which case, the matter in dispute may be referred either to the same, or other arbitrators, as the meeting shall judge best; and their Parties award shall be final. After which, if either escing to of the parties at variance, prove so regardless be disown- Qf peace an(j un^y as not to acquiesce in such corrected determination, the monthly meeting they belong to should proceed to issue a testi mony against him or her so refusing. Arbitra- Where arbitrators are at a loss for want of torB may . consult legal knowledge, it may be proper for them, at the joint expense of the parties, to take the opinion of counsel learned in the law, in order to come at a proper judgment in the matter Should be referred to them. And that they may the bet- ter answer the end of their appointment, and be helpful in conciliating the minds of the parties, they ought not to consider themselves as advocates for those by whom they are, chosen, but ag us»b> whose duty it is to judge"' righteously, fearing the Lord. They should, as much as may be, shun all previous informa tion respecting the case; or, having heard any thing on it, stand unbiassed thereby. They ARBITRATIONS. 11 should reject no evidence or witness proposed, Reject no i • ,i nil evidenoe. nor receive any but m the presence of both parties; and in their award, they need not assign any reason for their determinations. And whereas there may be some circum- Cases ex- stances even in disputed matters, wherein the cep e foregoing wholesome method of proceeding cannot be complied with; such as, 1st. The party absconding, or leaving the country with design to defraud his or her creditors; or, 2d. That the going through the meetings, by the time it must necessarily take up, might be a manifest damage to the creditor or claimant, by other people's postponing him or her; as in cases of apparent danger of bankruptcy, or the party being overloaded with debts, and other creditors generally coming on; or, 3d. That there may be danger of future damage to such as submit thereto, as in the case of executors, administrators, or trustees. It may therefore be necessary, and it is advised, that the monthly meeting, where such cases happen, do hold excused such as shall in the two first mentioned circumstances in this paragraph, appear to them to be really necessitated to pro* ceed at law : and in the latter case of execu- permis- tors, administrators, or trustees, where it shall ^ a^iSl. appear to the meeting that our friendly way Prut^d -c*se may be unsafe, such may be permitted to have law. the matter tried at law, wi h this caution, that 12 ARBITRATIONS. the parties onVboth sides do behave towards each other in TwJWttoiy love, decency and moderation, without anger or animosity; which will be a becoming testimony even in courts, and^. show that nothing but the nature of the case, and our station in common with others, under the laws of the land, bring any of us there. Overseers As it may sometimes occur that a member, carefully either for want of a clear understanding of the the nature i • xi i ¦ • a of com- business, or through an improper influence, piamt. mav present a complaint against another mem ber, wherein the overseers, after fully hearing both parties, being decidedly of opinion that the case does not require a reference, they are Prepara- to advise a speedy settlement thereof; which. ing may be being ineffectual, and the complainant remain- and^om- mg dissatisfied therewith, <$$ may have liberty* mikitedap" *° inf°rm the preparative meeting where the other party is a member (without mentioning any naine) that having a matter in dispute with one of their members, he* is desirous of, their assistance in order to a settlement there of: — the said meeting is then to appoint a judicious committee to inquire into the pro priety of the matter being left to arbitration; if they should judge that the complaint ought to be referred, they are to advise that it be submitted accordingly; but if the said com mittee concur in judgment with the overseers, the complaint is to be. dismissed. BIRTHS AND BURIALS. 13 It is desired that persons differing about Ministers worldly affairs, do as little as may be, engage tors advis- Friends in the ministry as arbitrators in such e a§amst cases. BIRTHS AND BURIALS. As some who attend burials may have to Modera- come a considerable distance, and need bodily vised. refreshment, it is earnestly advised, that in making preparations on such occasions, mode ration may be observed; and that Friends in all respects demean themselves with gravity. And when the contrary appears, care should be taken, and suitable admonition extended; that every thing tending to lessen the solemnity on such occasions, may be avoided. (1841.) It is recommended, that one or more suit- Appoint- -n • • • i menttosee able Friends of each particular meeting, be that good appointed by monthly meetings to attend at observed funerals, to see that good order is observed; **lsfune" and that the corpse be removed about an hour after the time set for meeting at the house. Advised, that Friends be careful themselves, Christian and encourage their families in the mainte- nies to be 2 * 14 BIRTHS AND BURIALS. maintain- nance of our Christian testimonies, when at- ed tending the burials of those not in communion Cases with us; — and that Friends do not publish in- tations are vitations, in our religious meetings, to burials published6 where a hireling minister is expected to offi 'ciate. (1841.) Meetings ln order that meetings may not De held at atfune- . . p • • rais. interments in a customary or formal way, it is advised that the proposal for holding any such meeting, be previously submitted to the con sideration of the elders and overseers, or other solid Friends, either of the meeting in the compass of which the deceased resided, or of that in which the interment is to take place, — that the counsel or mind of Truth may be waited for and followed. (1841.) Appoint- And to prevent the introduction of improper ment to . r- the care interments amongst us, it is recommended, that grounds!1 two or more Friends be appointed to the care of our several burial grounds by preparative or monthly meetings, as the case may require ; and that no person who is not in membership be buried therein, without a permit in writing , signed by one or two of those Friends ; who should also take care that our burial grounds be properly enclosed, and kept in decent order. a pause at It is further recommended, that at all inter ments time be allowed for a solemn pause, both BIRTHS AND BURIALS. 15 before and after the corpse is put into the ground. It is affectionately advised that Friends keep to true moderation in all things appertaining to interments, and that no costly or showy monuments be affixed to graves in any of our burial grounds ; or any mark be permitted ex- Marks ai- ceeding six inches in height above the level of the ground, or more than sixteen inches in width and four inches in thickness, with the name and age of the deceased. Monthly meetings are directed to give the Directions subject particular care and attention, in order meetings.'7 that no stone or device should be permitted, or any departure from the rule, allowed of or submitted to, in our burial grounds; and such as are placed already in our burial grounds are directed to be reduced? as early as is con- cable, to the height mentioned. (1852.) ' f Friends are advised against imitating the Mourning , n ¦ • ¦ - habits, &c. vain custom ot wearing or giving mourning habits, and all extravagant expenses about the interment of the dead. As great inconvenience may arise from the Record of want of due attention to keeping a regular deaths*" record of births and deaths, it is earnestly 16 BIRTHS AND BURIALS. enjoined on each monthly meeting, that they j appoint a careful Friend, whose duty it shall be, in a book provided for the purpose at the monthly meeting's expense, to keep a record of all births and deaths of members that shall occur within their respective limits, and rwhich^ ^shall be offered 'itJSffSh for that purpose. Andj in order to engage the attention of monthly meetings more closely to this subject, it is further enjoined, that an explicit answer be annually given by monthly to Quarterly meet ings, and through them to the Yearly Meeting, to the query, Whether due care is taken to keep a regular record of births and deaths ? (1841.) The form of the record to be as follows — BIRTHS. Names of the children. When born. Names of the parents. Their residence. Occasional notes. V BURIALS. Names of the deceased. When deceased. Age. Where buried. Late residence. Occasional j notes. 1 BOOKS. It is recommended to the meeting for suffer- Pubiica- ings to advise or assist any of our members, on their own application, who may incline to publish any manuscript or work which may tend to promote the cause of Truth or be beneficial to society. (1829.) And it is the Writings sense of this Meeting, that if any one shall disunity! * print or publish . any writing which tends to excite disunity and discord among us, such persons should be- complained of to the monthly meeting they belong to ; and if they cannot be convinced of the impropriety of their conduct, be testified against, as opposed to the peace and good order of the Society. This Meeting doth earnestly exhort .all pa- Advice rents, heads of families, and guardians of mi- fading nors, that they prevent, as much as in them £oOks01oua lies, their children and others under their care and tuition, from having or reading books and papers tending to prejudice the profession of the Christian religion, to create the least doubt concerning the authenticity of the holy Scrip tures, or of those saving truths declared in them ; lest their infant and feeble minds should be poisoned thereby, and a foundation laid for 2* B 17 18 CERTIFICATES. the greatest evils. And it is earnestly recom mended to every member of our religious society, that they discourage and suppress the reading of plays, romances, novels, or other Against • pernicious books; and printers and booksellers selling,2 or in profession with us, are cautioned against such"8 printing, selling, or lending such books; as it books. is a practice so inconsistent with the purity of C the Christian religion. And Friends are de sired to be careful in the choice of all books in which their children and families read; seeing there are many. under the specious titles of promoting religion and morality, which con tain sentiments repugnant to^ the truth in Christ Jesus. CERTIFICATES. For tra- It is recommended to the Quarterly and Friends to monthly meetings, to take care that all certifi- abiyeare°-n" cates or minutes which may be given to any turned, travelling Friend, be recorded; and upon the Ofremovai return of such Friend, seasonably delivered ed in the back to the meeting; and that all certificates Seetin'g °f removal brought by any Friend intending anddrde" to reside amongst us, shall be lodged in the CERTIFICATES. 19 monthly meeting where the same is accept ed; and also that every meeting do keep a copy or record of all certificates which they give out. 'All certificates of removal prepared and approved by one meeting must be sent to the other, aiu^^A j ; if there approved signed by the clerks of 'both.JfAU / certificates received must be read^and minuted in both men's and women's meetings.^Li^V Qjjf/^ Friends are advised to be very cautious in Advice changing their places of residence : it having SSou™" been observed that the dissolving of old, and change of the forming of new connections, have in many instances been attended with effects prejudi cial to a growth in the Truth and the service thereof, both in the heads and younger branches of families. We therefore recommend to all, that on these occasions a strict attention be paid to the pointings of Divine wisdom ; and that, before any determine to change their places of abode, they consult with their expe rienced fellow-members. When a monthly meeting is engaged to pre- inquiry pare a certificate on account of the removal of —j^g any Friend to reside within the limits of an- certificates. other monthly meeting, careful inquiry should be made by a committee appointed for that purpose, respecting the situation of his or her temporal affairs, and also, if single, concerning 20 CERTIFICATES. their situation in relation to marriage engage ments ; and if on such inquiry no impediment should be found, the certificate should state, that, on inquiry no obstruction appeared rela tive to his or her outward affairs to the grant ing a certificate. (1818.) Pecuniaryrelief. To be con- It is the judgment of this Meeting, that when accepted a certificate of removal from one monthly meet- duced pr°" inS addressed to another is produced therein, and it is found that the person or persons re commended reside within the limits thereof, it should be considered as accepted, and the par ties members of that meeting. But if any such persons shall fall into circumstances requiring pecuniary relief within one year after the re ceipt of such certificate, the meeting removed to, ought to assist them, giving speedy notice thereof to the other; whereupon that meeting should immediately take care of them, and repay the charge which has been or may be in curred on that account. But if any Friend be reduced in his or her circumstances by fire or other sudden unavoidable losses, though it may be within one year after their removal as afore said, they should be kindly assisted and re lieved by the meeting where such persons reside. Appiica- All Friends removing out of the limits of tion to be . ° made for their monthly meetings, whether for continu- oates. ance, or for any considerable length of time, CERTIFICATES. 21 are advised to apply to their respective meet ings for certificates directed to those within which they propose to sojourn or settle. But To be sent if any shall remove without so applying, the Tpp^edfor. monthly meetings of which they are members, after the usual inquiry made, and no obstruc tion appearing, should send certificates for them to the monthly meetings within which they are removed, and that without improper delay, inconveni- But if their conduct requires their 'being dealt ^such8 with, and the distance such as to be inconve- as have re- „ , ... • moved at a ment for the meeting they have removed from, distance. the monthly meeting within whi . 1 • i seasonably monthly meetings to which they are directed — they being the exclusive property of such meetings. forwarded. Corres- Each Quarterly and Monthly Meeting pom us. g-^Q^jj app0int a correspondent, to whom cer tificates or other communications intended for the meeting should be addressed, and whose duty it should be to acknowledge promptly, by letter or otherwise, the reception of such CHARITY AND UNITY. 23 / communications, and also to forward from their respective meetings such papers as may be placed in their charge for that purpose. .The name and post-office address of each cor respondent to be forwarded annually to the Yearly Meeting, and a full list thereof pub lished in the extracts. (1864.) CHARITY AND UNITY. It is advised, that where there is any ap- Dissension, pearance of dissension and variance, or of un kind resentment and shyness among our mem bers, the parties be timely and tenderly apprized of the danger to which they thereby expose both themselves and others, and ear nestly exhorted to mutual condescension and forgiveness, becoming the followers of Christ : And if any, notwithstanding such endeavours for their help, continue to manifest an impla cable enmity to others, the overseers or other impiaca- solid Friends of the preparative or monthly ty. meeting they belong to, should be informed thereof, and labour further with them : when, if they still prove inflexible, they ought to be testified against as out of the unity of the body — the very end of whose existence is the promotion of peace on earth, and good-will amongst men. CIVIL GOVERNMENT. Liberty of Liberty of conscience being the common con- . ° science, right of all men, and particularly essential to the well-being of religious societies, we hold it to be indispensably incumbent upon us to maintain it inviolably among ourselves : and Caution therefore advise and exhort all in profession respecting . /*• offices. with us, to decline the acceptance of any office or station in civil government, the duties of which are inconsistent with our religious prin ciples ; or in the exercise of which they may be, or think themselves to be, under the neces sity of exacting of their brethren any com pliances against which we are conscientiously scrupulous. And if any persons in member ship with us, notwithstanding this advice, shall persist in a conduct so reverse to our principles and religious liberty, it is the sense of this Meeting that they be treated with, as in other cases of offence ; and if they cannot be brought to see and acknowledge their error, that the monthly meetings to which they belong should proceed to testify our disunity with them. Not to And it is also the sense and judgment oFthis berstosta- Meeting, that Friends ought not, in any wise, wWchtend to be active or accessory in electing, or promot- to lay ing to be elected, their brethren to such offices waste our ..... testimo- or stations in civil government, the execution whereof tends to lay waste our Christian testi- mes. CONDUCT and conversation. 25 mony, or subject their brethren or others to sufferings on account of their conscientious scruples,. Believing that we are called to show forth to Peaceable the world in life and practice, that the blessed oHkrist. reign of the Messiah, the Prince of peace, is begun, and we doubt not will proceed till it at tains its completion in the earth, when accord ing to the prophecies of Isaiah and Micah, " Nation shall not lift up sword against nation neither shall they learn war any more." In fluenced by these principles, we cannot con- Whose sistently join with such as form combinations cannotjoi» of a hostile nature against any; much less in mhosti:e ° . . measures. opposition to those placed in sovereign or sub ordinate authority; nor can we unite with or encourage such as revile and asperse them; for it is written, " Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people." Acts xxiii. 5. CONDUCT AND CONVERSATION. Whatever exercises we may meet with on Faithful- account of a faithful testimony to the Truth in commend- all '^godliness of conversation; and to the end ed- that we may not faint in our minds, let us con- . ¦¦•ill 3 26 CONDUCT AND CONVERSATION. sider the Captain of our salvation, who endured the contradiction of sinners, bearing his cross and despising the shame, and is now set down on the right hand of God, where he continually maketh intercession for us — that following him, and under his banner fighting the good fight of faith, we may finally obtain the crown of righteousness which fadeth not away. Advised, that such be dealt with who are Scandal- . . ous prac- given to lying, swearing, cursing; men and tices con- 1 /• n 1 1 demned or women unlawfully or unseemly keeping corn- testified panv with each other, or any other scandalous practice ; and where any are guilty of gross or notorious crimes, or such other disorderly or indecent practices as shall occasion public scan dal, — after being dealt with by the overseers or other concerned Friends, if they are brought to a sense thereof, such offenders ought with out improper delay to remove the scandal, and clear, as much as in them lies, our holy profes sion therefrom, by acknowledging the offence, and condemning the same in writing under their bund, to the satisfaction of the monthly meeting whereto they belong. And where any such offender refuseth so to acknowledge and condemn the fault, the said monthly meeting ought speedily to testify against him or her, and the fact. Biasphe- If any in membership with us shall bias- claim ear- pheme, or speak profanely of Almighty God, \ lycare. Christ Jesus, or the Holy Spirit, he or she CONDUCT AND CONVERSATION. 27 ought early to be tenderly treated with foi their instruction, and the convincement of their understanding, that they may experience re pentance and forgivenessjbut should any, not- persisting withstanding this/f^^KSl# labour, persist in therein> ° <- '•— .^~— ^_^ . . *¦ or denying their error, or deny the divinity of our Lord the divin- and Saviour Jesus Christ, the immediate reve- chjist, lation of the Holy Spirit, or the authenticity ^n°f ofthe Scriptures; as it is manifest they are not ment. one in faith with us, the monthly meeting where the party belongs, having extended due care for the help and benefit of the individual without effect, ought to declare the same, and issue their testimony accordingly. It is the earnest concern of this Meeting, strict jus- that in all our dealings and transactions among 0"r ^eai- men, strict iustice may be observed; and that "?gs t0.be « _ J ' observed. no motives of pacuniary interest may induce any of our members to impose on each other, or on their, neighbours: and it is desired tha,t monthly meetings may be careful to extend suitable admonition against a spirit of covetous- ness, and against every appearance of deviation from strict justice in any of our members. Frequent waiting in stillness on the Lord for Waiting in the renewal of strength, keeps the mind at recom-3 home in its proper place and duty, and out of meuded. all unprofitable association and converse, whe ther amongst those of our own, or other pro fessions. Much hurt may accrue to the reli- 28 CONVINCED PERSONS. Unneces- gious mind by long and frequent conversation vernation" on temporal matters, especially by interesting. on tempo- ourselves unnecessarily in them ; for there is a ral mat- . ... ters dis- leaven in that propensity, which being suffered courage . ^Q prevaUj indisposes and benumbs the soul, and prevents its frequent ascendings in living aspirations towards the Fountain of eternal life. CONVINCED PERSONS. , It is concluded that the following order be observed respecting persons who apply for ad mittance into membership, and request to come Admission under the care of Friends. * That they apply ber°snipem" to the overseers or elders, who, when they are easy so to do, are to lay it before- fjf§*prepara^ tive meetings and, after that meeting is fully' satisfied, by Spaying a solid visit or otherwise, they are to lay the case before the monthly meeting* which meeting shall appoint some suitable vFriends to inquire into the person's |ife and conversation, and also to take a solid opportunity of conference with the party, in order the better to understand whether his or her motives for such request be sincere, and on tbe ground of true convincement; and make report of their sense of the person's suitableness CONVINCED PERSONS. 29 to beoomfe a member: on which, when meeting % satisfied, a minute should be made, signif^qg the acceptance of such into member ship, and appointing a Friend or two to acquaint the person thereof, requesting his or her attend ance at the next monthly meeting. But in all such cases, Friends are exhorted Caution to attend carefully to the advice of the apostle, haste. " Lay hands suddenly on no man." The neg lect of such caution having often been injus rious both to the individuals and to the Society — to them, by settling them in a false rest; and to the Society, by adding to its numbers, with out increasing its joy. Wherefore, we desire, that on every applica tion of persons to be received into membership with us, monthly meetings may be deep and weighty in their deliberations and result; and, without when united in believing that the applicants Son or are clearly convinced of our religious principles, colour- and in a good degree subject to the Divine wit ness in their own hearts, manifested by a cir cumspect life and conduct, said meetings are at liberty to receive such into membership, without respect to nation or colour. And such Disowned as may have been disowned, and incline to be- received come members, may be received on their own ngssen"5, request as other applicants. DAYS AND TIMES. Some reasons for not observing fasts and feast days and times, and other human injunctions and institutions relative to the worship of God. Ever since we were a people, we have had a testimony against formal worship; being con vinced by the precepts of our Lord Jesus Christ, the testimonies of his apostles, and our own experience, that the worship and prayers which God accepts, are such only as are produced by the influence and assistance of his Holy Spirit; we cannot therefore consistently unite with any in the observation of public fasts, feasts, and what they term holy days; or such injunctions and forms as are devised in man's will for Di vine worship. The dispensation to which out ward observations were peculiar, having long since given place to the spiritual dispensation of the gospel, we believe the fast we are now called to is not the bowing of the head like a bulrush for a day, but an universal and con tinual fasting and refraining from every thing which has a tendency to defile the soul, and unfit it for becoming the temple of the Holy Ghost; according to the injunctions of Christ to his primitive disciples, " If any man will come after me, let him take up his daily cross 30 DAYS AND TIMES. and follow me. Watch ye therefore and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man." That the primitive believers saw an end to these shadows of good things, by coming to Him in whom all figures and shadows end, is evident by the words of the apostle Paul : " For Christ," said he, " is the end of the law for righteous ness to every one that believeth." Bom. x. 4. " But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established .upon better promises." Heb. viii. 6. " Let no man therefore judge you in meat or drink, or in respect of an holy day, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days, which are a shadow of. things to come, but the body is of Christ." Col J ii. 16, 17. And the same apostle thus expos'^" tulated with some who it appears had fallen from the true faith in these respects : " But now after that ye have known God, how turn ye .again to the beggarly elements, whereunto ye \desire again to be in bondage? Ye observe 'days and months, and times, and years : I am afraid of you lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain." Gal. iv. 9, 10, 11. 'DEFAMATION AND DETRACTION. strict vigi- ' Frif'^s are everywhere exhorted to main- against tain a strict watch over themselves and each -t^e sPmt other, against the subtle and mischievous spirit oi Q€trRC~„ tion re- of tale-bearing and detraction — 'the manifest comm, iii - tendency of which is to lay waste the unity of the body, by sowing the seeds of disesteem, strife, and discoid among brethren and neigh bours ; as well as to unfit those who either pro pagate or listen to evil reports, for being of that service to the persons reflected upon, which they might be if the order prescribed by our blessed Lord to his church, was strictly ob- Gospei served, viz : " If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that, in the mouth of two' or three witnesses, every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church; but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican." > Detractors It is therefore advised, that in whomsoever eed this weakness appears, it may be immediately agamst if checked; and, if any one gives way to it, to 32 '% discipline. 33 the Dbvious injury of another's reputation the labor or interest, let him or her be faithfully ad- \aa,\, monished; and, if they persist, and cannot be prevailed with to give due satisfaction, the preparative or monthly meeting should be informed of it, and deal further with them; when, if this produce not the desired effect, they should be testified against. And if any member who offends in this Hearsay respect, shelters him or herself under a- pre- rePortera- tence that they say no more than they have heard from others, but will not discover who they are, — such reporters or tale-bearers should in like manner be dealt with, and testified! against as being themselves the authors. DISCIPLINE AND MEETINGS FOR DISCIPLINE. "-The institution of our meetings for disci- pline\jjaving on experience been found very bensmcial, it is earnestly recommended they may be maintained in that authority wherein they were established. Where any have been negligent in attending them, or opposed to their usefulness, carnality and spiritual death have been the consequence. C 34 DISCIPLINE. Connec- The connection and subordination of our subordi- meetings for discipline are thus: Preparative me'etmgf. meetings are accountable to the monthly; monthly, to the Quarterly; and the Quarterly, to the Yearly Meeting. So that if the Yearly Meeting be at any time dissatisfied with the proceedings of any inferior meeting; or a Quarterly meeting with the proceedings of either of its monthly meetings; or a monthly meeting with the proceedings of either of its preparative meetings — such meeting or meet ings ought with readiness and meekness to render an account thereof when required. To make When it may be thought expedient to make disci- or alter any rule of discipline, the subject shall men6' and ^rs^ claim the attention of a Monthly Meeting women to of men or women Friends, and in case the proposition should be united with in both branches, it is to be forwarded to the Quarterly Meeting, and when there united with in like manner, be forwarded to the Yearly Meeting of men and women Friends for consideration and approval. (1861.) Settingup It is agreed, that no Quarterly meeting be downay° set up or laid down, without the consent of meetings. the Yearly Meeting; no monthly meeting without the consent of the Quarterly meeting; nor any preparative or other meeting for busi ness or worship, till application to the monthly meeting is first made; and, when there ap proved, the consent of the Quarterly meeting . DISCIPLINE. 3d be also obtained. Also, that no meeting for worship intended to consist of Friends belong ing to two or more monthly meetings shall be set up, until the proposal be offered to and approved by both those monthly meetings, and the consent of their respective Quarterly meeting' or meetings be obtained. When the meeting proposed, is opened, it should be at tended by a few solid Friends, deputed by each of the said monthly meetings. And, if at any time it is thought expedient that a preparative meeting should be held at the same place, the consent of the said monthly and Quarterly meetings should be, in like manner, applied for and obtained; and the said preparative meeting should be annexed to either one or the other of those monthly meetings, as may be most likely to conduce to the benefit of the individuals who compose it, and the advantage of Society. i It is directed, that a book be provided by Books to every monthly and Quarterly meeting, and ^ f™7air fair minutes be kept therein, of all matters re.oord of which shall come before and be determined by them. Monthly meetings, particularly, are advised to attend to and finish all such busi ness with care and despatch, that it may, at no time, suffer by improper delay. And if any Monthly ' -if- . ¦ i j. to apply to case under consideration proves too weighty or Quarteriy difficult for them to determine, they should f^IL apply' to their respective Quarterly meetings ance. 36 DISCIPLINE. for assistance; or, if the circumstances are such as to require it, refer it thereto bj minute. Copies of It is the sense of this Meeting, as a general may\>eS rule in all cases, that where any monthly or meeting **" Quarterly meeting has occasion for, and re quests copies of any of the papers, minutes, or records of another monthly or Quarterly meet ing, the same may accordingly be granted. And also Where any difference happens among if Quarter- Friends, and the same be entered in any monthi monthly or Quarterly meeting book, it is meetings agreed, that if the parties, or either of them, thereof6 think that copies of such entries may be useful and necessary for them, and request the steie, such monthly and Quarterly meetings shall have a discretional power to give or refuse such copies, according to the circumstances and motives attending. J*)M Represen- It is agreed, that a suitable number of men tatives to , , • ± -i • i ,11 the Quar- and women be appointed in each monthly Yeari and meeting, to attend the service of the Quarterly meetings, meeting, with such reports in writing, signed by their clerks, as may be given them in charge: also, that at least four of each sex be appointed in each Quarterly meeting to attend the Yearly Meeting. Punctual And it is earnestly advised and desired, that on™ or au" Friends who submit to these, or any other DISCIPLINE. 37 / services of Society, may be punctual in their reason for attendance thereon ; or, if prevented by sick- advised. ness or any other unavoidable occurrence, that they be careful to send information thereof; also, that those who are under appointments to meetings, do not withdraw therefrom before the conclusion, without obtaining the meet ing's consent. And when proposals of marriage are made, if any near relations of the parties (who are not in membership) are permitted to be pre sent, they should withdraw before the meeting proceeds to any other business. It is advised, that if a member under dealing Mode of remises into the compasj of another monthly ^th those meeting; or, if previous to or after such re- w.horejl.ide ^ Sit A Q1B~ moval, the conduct of him or her has been tance. such as to require their being dealt with — and their residence be at so great a distance as to render it inconvenient for the monthly meeting to which they belong, it should re quest that into which they are removed, to treat with them according to our rules, and to report the effect of its care; when, if it is satis factory, the party should be recommended by certificate; or if otherwise, and -a testimony of denial is issaed, a copy thereof should be sent to the monthly meeting within the limits of which he or she resides, and that meeting "is to appoint two or more Friends to inform them thereof, and of their right of appeal. 4. 38 DISCIPLINE. Minuted After a charge against a member for dis- notntorsit orderly conduct is entered on the minutes of a in any monthly meeting, he or she should not be per- meeting J . . „ . „ -.. . for disci- mitted to sit in any of our meetings tor disci? plme' pline, till the case is issued, and the -monthly meeting^ satisfied. 4 It is advised, that where any transgress the Trans- rules of our discipline, they may, without admo-r3 partiality, be admonished and sought in the nished. spirit of love and Divine ^charity; so that it may be seen by all, that the restoring spirit of meekness and Christian love abounds, before church censure takes place ; and that a gospel spirit is the spring and motive to all our per formances, as well in discipline as in worship. It is earnestly recommended, that in con ducting the affairs of the church, Friends en deavour to manage them in the peaceable spirit and wisdom of Jesus, with decency, for bearance, and love to each other. cases. Suffering It appearing by the minutes of the meeting for sufferings, that on inspection of some of the accounts of sufferings sent up by the Quar terly meetings, considerable difficulty has been occasioned by those accounts not expressing, with sufficient clearness, what the sufferings mentioned were for; it is now desired that the monthly and Quarterly meetings may in future leave out of their reports any instances which' DISCIPLINE. 39 do not appear to be clearly ccnsistent with the sense of this Yearly Meeting; and that they Sent up' continue to collect and send up their accounts ancTre-7 of sufferings annually as heretofore directed; oorded- and that they be preserved and recorded agree ably to the practice of our ancient Friends; reciting the sums demanded, — the kind and amount of property taken, — by whom the dis traints were made, — and the authority under which the officers acted. As to the rights of children whose parents Rights of have been married contrary to the rules of our defined" discipline, it is agreed, that where either of those parents remain out of membership, their children should not be esteemed members, till application for their admission is made either by themselves or by their parent, parents, "Or guardians, on their behalf, and the monthly meeting applied to, on a solid consideration of the case, is easy to admit them or any of them. The rights of children born, of parents who' have been married according to our rules, or of such children whose parents^lhave both become members, and one of them afterwards disowned, are not intended to be affected by this rule, if a parent of either of those descrip tions retains a right of membership at the time«of the birth of any such child. (1315.) If any member of our religious society shall Sorcery tc apply to those called jugglers or fortune-tellers, against.6 40 DISCIPLINE. or those who by colour of any art or skill whatsoever, pretend to a knowledge of future events, hidden transactions, or where things lost or stolen may be found ; or if any of our members shall use, or pretend to such art or skill, it is advised that they be speedily dealt with ; and if they do not manifest a due sense of their evil conduct, that they be testified against. Clerks, A committee should be annually appointed in each of "our Quarterly and monthly meet ings, for the nomination of clerks; which may afford opportunity for their being seasonably changed, and more of our qualified members exercised in those services. Service of As the use and design of preparative meet- tivTmeet- ^nSs *s m general to digest and prepare, busi es8- ness, as occasion may require, which may be proper to be laid before the monthly meeting, Friends ought to be careful therein, not to occasion unnecessary delays, or undertake to decide on any business which claims attention and care in monthly meetings. And when cases are agreed to be carried forward, they should be entered in writing, and some suitable Friend or Friends named to produce them to the monthly meetings ; and proper notes there of should be carefully preserved by clerks of preparative meetings, as to said meetings may appear useful and right. But no preparative meeting shall take cognizance of proposals of [marriage, this being exclusively the business of monthly meetings. DONATIONS AND SUBSCRIPTIONS, Executors and trustees concerned in wills and settlements, are advised to a faithful and punctual discharge of their respective trusts, according to the intent of the donors and testa tors; and both they and the meetings con cerned in any charitable gifts, legacies or bequests, to take special care that these be not perverted or appropriated to any other uses than such as, the donors or testators have directed and enjoined by legal settlement, will, or testament. FAMILY VISITS. As the visiting of Friends in their families in the openings of heavenly wisdom, is a ser vice which hath often been blessed to the minds of the visitors and visited, this Meeting hath from time to time recommended it to the solid attention of Quarterly and monthly meet ings : and it is desired, that concerns of this nature maybe tenderly cherished, and those ~4& GAMING AND DIVERSIONS. who are rightly exercised therein, encouraged to move forward in due season, and in humble dependence on the Shepherd of Israel, who not only puts his own forth, but goes before and rewards all who are faithful to his appoints ments, with the enriching reward of sweet comfor* and solid peace. GAMING AND DIVERSIONS. Gaming As our time passeth swiftly away, and our diversions delight ought to be in the law of the Lord ; it disown^ *s advised that a watchful care be exercised ment. over our youth, to prevent their going to stage- plays, horse-races, music, dancing, or any such vain sports and pastimes ; and being concerned in lotteries, wagering, or other species of gam ing. And if any of our members fall into either of these practices, and cannot be pre vailed with, by private labour, to decline them, the monthly meetings to which the offenders belong, should be informed thereof; and, if they be not reclaimed by further labour, proceed 4e- testify our disunity with them. LAW. If any member is complained of for with holding a just debt, he or she should be ten- withhoid- derly urged to payment ; and if this is unavail- ^l*^8*,, ing, be dealt with as in other cases of dis- ?f deal- orderly conduct. And if any of our members appear unable to satisfy their creditors, they should be advised to call them together with- insolvents out loss ot time; and submit the state of their aavfce^f6 affairs to their inspection : when, if the ere- creditors. ditors apprehend a surrender of the debtor's effects to assignees for the benefit of the whole to be necessary, let him or her be earnestly en treated to consent ; and, if they refuse so to do, the monthly meeting should be informed thereof; when, if the party still persists in Refusing refusing, he or she should be disowned with- diswn-f out too -long delay. ment- But if Friends in such difficult circumstances Compas manifest an honest intention, and shall offer ^°^ their all to their creditors, let compassion and debtors. aid be extended to them as brethren, and ob jects of Christian charity — having done what they can, no more for the present is justly to be expected from them. Yet it is the judg- Payment ment of this meeting, that if persons so failing when of " in their circumstances, should at any time ablhty- JA- M LAW. afterwards be favoured with full ability to pay off their deficiencies, justice will require it of them, notwithstanding a composition with, and legal discharge from their creditors may have been obtained. This is however not meant to furnish any with a pretext for advancing such claims, while persons so deficient are honestly labouring to retrieve their circumstances, nor until it shall clearly appear to their respective monthly meetings, or to a solid committee thereof, that a sufficient ability is arrived at; when, if they are requested to comply, and per sist in refusing, the said meetings should pro ceed to disown them. No undue And it is desired, that no debtors may shel- tagTto be ter themselves under such of our rules, as are taken of designed to guard us against an unkind treat- our rules. r> i i • ment of each other, unjustly hoping to be thereby put out of the reach of the civil au thority. Suits at And it is the sense of this Meeting, that if any member thereof, disregarding the gospel order prescribed by our discipline, shall arrest or sue at law another member (not being un der such a necessity so to do, as may satisfy the overseers or other solid and judicious Friends of the meeting to which the latter be longs) he or she in so doing, doth depart from the peaceable principle we make profession of; and if, on being treated with by the monthly MARRIAGES. Mr meeting to which they belong, they cannot be prevailed with to withdraw the suit and pay the costs thereof, they should be disowned. MARRIAGES. (1842.) The Society of Friends have ever regarded the marriage contract as one of a religious na ture. It is therefore earnestly and affection ately advised, that our members, previously to making any procedure in this important con cern, do seriously and humbly wait upon the Divine Lord for his counsel and direction ; and when be waited favoured with satisfactory clearness therein, f°^^ they should acquaint their parents or guar- informed. dians with their intentions. Thus, preservation from the dangerous bias of forward and uncer tain affections, would be experienced, to the real benefit of the parties, and the comfort of their friends. The principles on which the good order in our religious Society, in relation to the accom plishment of marriage, is founded, are, Firstly. For the preservation of harmony, Consent of peace, and unity in families : and, to guard parents- against hasty and improper connections, the Mi MARRIAGES. consent of parents should be early obtained by the parties. Care of Secondly. That Friends may proceed com- meetings. mendably in this important connection, the proposal of marriage should be laid before the monthly meeting, in order that Friends may extend a watchful care over their members, and see that they are clear of other similar engagements. Mixed Thirdly. To discountenance mixed mar- marriages. ¦ .1 . n , -.-, riages; or the marriages of our members with those of other principles and professions of religion: because unhappiness is often the result of such connections, and difficulties and embarrassments are liable to ensue in the education of children. Hireling Fourthly. To maintain our testimony against ministry. ... . . . . . an hireling ministry, by avoiding the assist ance of a priest or hireling minister, in accom plishing this solemn engagement. For the purpose of maintaining these princi ples and testimonies, it is agreed that the following order be observed in the accomplish ment of marriages. Proposals. The parties making proposals of marriage are to communicate their intentions to the men's and women's monthly meeting in writ MARRIAGES. -4?" ing, signed by them both, in the following manner : " To the Monthly Meeting of Form. With Divine permission and Friends' approba tion, we intend marriage with each other." Whereupon, if they belong to the same Committee meeting, a committee of men and women ° "'i'"1^- Friends should be appointed to make inquiry respecting the clearness of the parties from other similar engagements. If they have parents or guardians, their consent should be Consent of expressed in the meeting, or produced in writ- Parents- ing, when it is practicable, or may reasonably be obtained. [_Should the woman be a widow Rights of having children, the committee are to see that children the rights of the children are legally securedj^s^y se" At the next meeting, if the committee report that inquiry has been made, and no obstruc tion to the further proceeding appears, the monthly meeting may leave the parties at liberty to accomplish their marriage, accord ing to our order, at a public meeting, or at such other time and place as it may approve; Time and except on the first day of the week ; and p ace' appoint two Friends of each sex to have the Overseers care and oversight thereof. If any member is about to marry without the limits of the monthly meeting of which he or she is a mem ber, care should be taken to procure a certifi- Certificate 111 „ , . of clear- cate lrom. the meeting they belong to, of ttteir ness. ^8" MARRIAGES. right of membership, and clearness from any other person with respect to marriage; and produce the same to the monthly meeting in which the proposal of marriage is made. Advised to It is affectionately advised, that marriages be tion, &c. accomplished decently, gravely, and weightily ; and that the parties themselves, their parents, and others concerned, do take care that mode ration be observed, and no reproach arise, pr occasion of offence be given; but that all behave with such sobriety as becomes a. people fearing God. If any thing to the contrary be observed, the overseers or other concerned Friends present, ought in brotherly love to admonish to a better behaviour. And the said Overseers overseers are to make report to the next .,<, ic pi i ,. monthly meeting, whether this advice concern ing good order and moderation has been ob served, and take care that the marriage certifi cate be recorded. Form of The form of which certificate shall be as certificate. follows : Whereas, A. B. of , in the county of , in , son of C. B. of and H. his wife; and D. E. daughter of F. E. of and M. his wife, having declared their intentions of marriage with each other, before a monthly meeting of the religious Society of Friends, held at , according to the good MARRIAGES. ^& order used among them [where the parties are under the care of parents or guardians, add] and having consent of parents or guardians concerned [as the case is~\ their said proposal of marriage was allowed of by the said meeting. Now these are to certify whom it may concern, that for the full accomplishment of their said intentions, this day of the month, in the year of our Lord , they, the said A. B. and D. E. appeared in a public meeting* of the said Society, held at aforesaid; and the said A. B. taking the said D. E. by the hand, did, on this solemn occasion, openly declare, that he took her, the said D. E. to be his wife, promising, with Divine assistance, to be unto her a loving and faithful husband, until death should sepa rate them; and then, in the same assembly, the said D. E. did in like manner declare, that she took him, the said A. B. to be her husband, promising, with Divine assistance, to be unto him a loving and faithful wife, until death should separate them. And moreover, they, the said A. B. and D. E. (she according to the custom of marriage, assuming the name of her husband) did, as a further confirmation thereof, then and there to these presents set their hands. * When the marriage is accomplished at a private house, instead' of the words, "in a public meeting of the said Society, held at aforesaid," say, "at the house of .... in the of " 5 r> -etf MARRIAGES. And we whose names are also hereunto sub scribed, being present at the solemnization of the said marriage and subscription, have, as witnesses thereto, set our hands, the day and year above written. A. B. D. B. No misde meanor to be trea sured up. Advised, that no misdemeanor be treasured up against a person until the time of present ing proposals of marriage, and then started, though perhaps long before done, and known to those who object to it at that time : which is a wrong thing, and should be checked and discouraged in all meetings. No pro- No monthly meeting ought to permit any sooner marriage to be proposed in said meeting, sooner tear after *nan one Jear a^eT *ne death of husband or wife. death of husband and wife. Consanguinity. That marriages of persons nearly related by consanguinity, may as much as in us lies be prevented, this Meeting concludes, that no marriage between any so near akin as first cousins shall be permitted amongst us. The term "first cousins" fully applies to every de scription of grandchildren descended from one common parent. improper It Js advised that Friends exercise a reli- connec- . . . . tions. gious care in watching over their children, and MARRIAGES. r&t endeavour to guard them against improper or unequal connections in marriage; that they be not anxious to obtain for them large portions and settlements; but that they be joined with persons of religious inclinations, suitable dis positions, and diligence in their business: which are necessary to a comfortable life in a married state. In order, aV,nj,uch as may be, to prevent Mixed mixed marriages, or the accomplishment of" marriages out of our comely order, parents and Friends are tenderly advised to an increas ing care of the youth; early to admonish and instruct them in the principles of Truth, by upright example as well as precept; and en deavour to impress their minds with the duty of religiously observing them; as much as possible restraining them from such company as is likely to entangle their affections in an improper manner. N ;• Let those of our members be admonished Admoni- who keep company with persons not of our Society, jin order for marriage; or who are present themselves, or consent to their chil dren being present at marriages of those not in membership, which are accomplished by the assistance of a priest or hireling minister. And when any of our members do join in Mixed marriage with those of other principles and marnases *sar marriages! Cause of disown- ment. Without and by a professions of religion; or accomplish their pu( marriage by the assistance of a priest; or are Attending present at the marriage of a member accom plished by the official interference of a priest or hireling minister, they should be treated with in order to convince them of the impro priety of their proceeding; and if not brought to a sense of their deviation, so as to m-ake satisfaction tp the meeting, let them be testi-fied- against. If any member of our Society accomplish bationPof°" his or her marriage without the approbation themonth- 0f the monthly meeting, and it should appear ¦ ing. by the report of a committee appointed to visit No im- him or her, that no immoral conduct, nor breach c duct, &c. of our testimonies has taken place in the ac complishment of said marriage, and that the party is desirous of retaining a right of mem bership, monthly meetings may be at liberty to retain such member, without" requiring a Both written -acknowledgment.^PEut when both par- members, ties are amenable to our discipline, and not giving a satisfactory acknowledgment in writ*- ing, they are to be testified against as for other breaches of the discipline. (184%,) -£' It is not intended to leave monthly meet ings at liberty to continue those in membership who marry their first cousins, without a satis factory acknowledgment in writing. (1846.) „ . As there are many persons not in membership with us, who not in are not of other principles or professions of religion, but who member- manifest an interest in the maintenance of our testimonies, it is concluded that, when any such person is about to proceed in Mar-, First cousins. "MARRIAGES. £& riage with a member, he or she shall be at libe: ty to make appli cation to the men and women Overseers of the Monthly Meeting to which the member belongs ; when, if the Overseers are satis fied, the proposals of marriage may be laid before the Monthly Meeting in the usual form ; and the Meeting shall make inquiry, and have the same care and oversight of the marriage, and pro ceed in the manner.prescribed by Discipline where both are mem- ¦ bers of the same Monthly Meeting. But these proceeding^ shall not give a right of membership to such persons or to their ofi/ spring — I806. MEETING HOUSES. It is recommended to Quarterly and monthly Titles to be meetings to make timely and careful inspec- insPected- tion into. the situation of the titles of meeting houses, burial, grounds, and other estates which have been vested in trustees, and by them held for the use and benefit of the Society at large, or of any of those meetings ; so that if it should appear needful by the death of any Trusts re- such trustees or otherwise, due and seasonable uewe ' care may be taken to appoint some Others to the trust; that future difficulties and the risk of being deprived of such estates may be avoided. And it is further recommended, that Quarterly and monthly meetings respectively as the case may require, keep exact records of all such trusts and conveyances ; and also Care of that a clear and regular account be kept by minutes, each respective meeting, of the place where, and and the persons with whom the papers, minutes and records belonging to our religious society are from time to time deposited; wherein due care should be taken to lodge them with suit able Friends. REPRESENTATIVE COMMITTEE OR MEETING FOR SUFFERINGS. (1829.) Pour from In order that this Yearly Meeting may be teriymeet- properly represented in the intervals thereof, mg- it is directed that each Quarterly meeting pro duce, in their reports to the Yearly Meeting annually, the names of four suitable Friends, to constitute together a Representative Com mittee, or Meeting for Sufferings, to be held and regulated according to the following rules : Minutes. First. The said Committee shall keep fair minutes of all its proceedings, and annually lay them before the Yearly Meeting. Quorum. Second. No less number than twelve of the members attending, shall constitute a meeting capable of transacting any business. Notice to TJdrd. On all occasions of uncommon im portance, previous notice thereof shall be given, or sent, to all the members, if practicable. May sit on Fourth. The said Committee may sit on its joum- own adjournments, and order these, as well as ments. ^ times of its stated meetings, according to / the business before them. -54- REPRESENTATIVE COMMITTEE. -&S~ The services confided to this Committee, are, in general : Firs}. To represent this Yearly Meeting Not to during its recess, and to act on its behalf in ™uh faith cases where the welfare of our religious society or.dlscl- ° J pline. may render it needful. But it is not to med dle with any matter of faith or discipline. Second. To procure and distribute such Books. books, or pamphlets, as may be a means of spreading the knowledge of our religious prin ciples or testimonies; and to advise or assist Assist in any of our members, on their own application, f^g. M " who may incline to publish any such manu script or work, as may tend to promote the cause of Truth, or be beneficial to society. Third. To render advice and assistance to Advise meetings, at their request, on subjects relating as" to to property, titles to lands, the renewal of trusts> &0- trusts, and the application of public gifts and legacies. Fourth. To receive from the several Quarterly Sufferings. meetings their annual accounts of sufferings, and also such memorials concerning deceased Friends, as those meetings may have concurred Memori with, that when examined and approved, they may be laid before the Yearly Meeting; or otherwise be returned to the respective Quar terly meetings for their revisal or correction. 56^ REPRESENTATIVE COMMITTEE. Assist Fifth. To extend such advice and assistance under "suf- to any individuals under suffering for our testi- fermg. monies, as their cases may require; and, if necessary, to apply to the govern ment, ^or per sons in authority, on their behalf. To corre- Sixth. To correspond with representative spon ' bodies of other Yearly Meetings, as occasions may require, on concerns of general interest to the Society. Concerned It is also agreed, that although none are may be properly members of the Representative Com- toattend1 mittee, but such as are appointed by direction of the Yearly Meeting as aforesaid, yet that other Friends, at the discretion of said Com mittee, may be permitted to attend when they feel a concern so to do. cancies. Supply va- When any vacancy occurs in the Repre sentative Committee during the recess of the Yearly Meeting, by death or otherwise, the Quarterly meeting within whose limits such vacancy happens, ought to take early care to supply it by a new appointment. (1834.) MEETINGS FOR WORSHIP. Dear Friends, keep all your meetings in the authority, wisdom, and power of Truth, and unity of the blessed Spirit; and the God of peace be with you. And it is advised, that Unbecom- such as come late to meetings, or when there haviour fall asleep, or are restless, or do not stay in the !n meet" JT' 7 J lngs re_ meeting, but go forth unnecessarily, or other- quires ad- i .-, t , . , , monition. wise demean themselves unbecoming our holy profession on those solemn occasions, be ten derly and seasonably admonished. We exhort all to a Christian exercise and Zeal in zeal in the performance of worship to Almighty ance°ofdi- God; and as we are not capable in our own ™.ie wor* 7 _ L ship re- strength to perform this great duty, we recom- commend- mend to a diligent waiting in true silence and retirement of mind, for the renewed sense of the inward power and virtue of his Spirit, whereby we shall be qualified to worship him in an acceptable manner. Let our faithfulness and sincerity herein appear, by the humility, meekness and circumspection of our lives and conversation, adorning the doctrines and prin ciples of Truth, as they were declared by Christ and his apostles : those who have been pre served in faithfulness therein, having to testify from that experience which cannot deceive, "58 MEETINGS FOR WORSHIP. that it hath been very profitable ; and there fore cannot be easy without encouraging and putting forward their children, apprentices and servants to this religious duty, as well as other behaviour suitable thereunto. And if this use ful practice was more generally attended to, it would do more for us and them than any out ward acquisition of wealth ; and without doubt, some of those who have been placed under our direction, may with thankfulness have to view our pious care in taking them from worldly business to seek a city eternal in the heavens. This Meeting recommends, that Friends jvhj^ (are exercised in the discipline wouldlearly ex pend their|ffigffpEd%jB love and care, in visiting such amongst us. who neglect their duty in at- Wiifui tending our meetings for public worship. And meetings" as a wilful neglect of this important duty is a disUown-f manifest evidence of ingratitude to the Divine ment. Being, contrary to the example and practice of the primitive believers in Christ, and our religious testimony; it is the sense of this Meeting, that as such who are thus insensible of their religious duty, disunite themselves from Christian fellowship with Friends, monthly meetings, after having fully discharged their duty towards them, and finding their en deavours to reclaim them ineffectual, should testify our disunion with them. Drowsi- As the minds* of many are turned towards MEMORIALS. i£ft" Friends, and the appearance of a drowsy spirit ness in in our religious meetings, is offensive, and may Xnsive. ' be a cause of stumbling to sober inquirers, it is earnestly desired that this weakness may not exist among us. And as indulgence therein Caution must necessarily have a disqualifying effect, it employing is the sense and judgment of this Meeting, that such in the _ i iii -iii services of Quarterly, monthly, and other meetings should discipline. be cautious of employing such members in the weighty services of the discipline. MEMORIALS. If any monthly meeting should, under solid consideration, believe it necessary to prepare a memorial concerning any deceased Friend who had been a member thereof, it is to go to the respective Quarterly meeting; where, being duly weighed and agreed to, it is then to be forwarded to the meeting for sufferings^ for in spection and approbation, previous to its being laid before this Meeting. MINISTERS AND ELDERS, AND MEET INGS OF MINISTERS AND ELDERS. Care in It is our earnest desire, that both ministers tenderness and elders may be as nursing fathers and mo- to those thers to those that are young in the ministry, young in . the minis- and with all care and diligence advise and ad monish them; and if they see occasion, reprove them in a tender and Christian spirit, according to the rules of our discipline and counsel of Friends in that respect; also exhort them fre quently to read the holy scriptures, and ear nestly seek the mind of the Spirit of truth, to open the mysteries thereof; that, abiding in a . simple and patient submission to the will of God, and keeping down to the openings of Di vine love and life in themselves, they may witness a gradual growth in their gifts, and be preserved from extending their declarations further than they find the life and power of Truth to bear them up. Ministers And our advice to all our ministers is, that ingTr y" they be frequent in reading the scriptures of drawing the old and new testaments : and if any in the unsound , . " inferences course of their ministry shall misapply, or draw from the j • p 1 ¦ r gcrip. unsound inferences or wrong conclusions from tures, or the text, or shall misbehave themselves in tor misbe- ' . haviour,to point of conduct or conversation, let them be MINISTERS AND ELDERS. _&! admonished in love and tenderness by the be admo- .-IT elders or overseers where they live, and if they nis e ' prove refractory and refuse to acknowledge their faults, let them be further dealt with, in the wisdom of Truth, as the case may require. As the occasion of our religious meetings is Order in solemn, a care should ever be maintained to guard against any thing that would tend to disorder or confusion therein. When any think they have aught against what is publicly de livered, they should speak to the party pri vately and orderly; and, if any shall oppose a Public op- ministering Friend in his or her preaching or mlSere'" exhortation, or keep on the hat, or show any in ™;ty . . l ' s requires remarkable dislike to such when engaged in speedy ad- prayer, let them be speedily admonished in moni 10n' such manner as may be requisite ; unless the person against whom the uneasiness is ex pressed has been disowned by a monthly meet ing, or his or her public appearances disap proved by the elders. This Meeting agrees, that each monthly Eiders to meeting choose two or more Friends of each eo osen" sex to sit with the ministers, and they together to compose a meeting to be denominated a pre- *parative meeting of ministers and elders ; taking care that the Friends chosen for that service be prudent, solid Friends, and that they do care fully discharge the trust confided to them. •6 j62" MINISTERS AND ELDERS. Mode of When there is occasion for the appointment eh?ers! mS °f one or niore elders in any meeting, the pro posal of separating a committee to consider the subject, should be first made in a monthly meeting, and when there united with, a proper number of Friends should be appointed. And in this ^committee, the names of the peijsons who may ae thought suitable should be first mentioned, and, when concurred with, reported to the monthly meeting, without consulting the person or persons, or otherwise divulging it. If upon due consideration the nomination is approved, a minute should be made, and a copy thereof forwarded to the Quarterly meeting of ministers and elders. Eiders The discipline never was intended to deprive removed monthly meetings of the liberty to remove when they elders from their station, at any time when lose their . i 1 i i - service, such meetings might believe they had lost their service by unfaithfulness or otherwise. (1829.) Committee It is recommended to our monthly meetings, p°ointedap~ that a committee ,be appointed at least once in once in four years and us much oftener as the occasion fouryears. . may require, to consider the propriety of changing the elders, and of bringing forward well qualified Friends to fill that station. (1829.) Commit- The Meeting united in the conclusion, that fouryears. a committee shall be appointed once in four MINISTERS AND ELDERS. -&a- years, or oftener if required, to consider the propriety of changing the elders, without en joining it on monthly meetings to make any change, unless it is deemed necessary. It Names to being distinctly understood, that whether any ly emeet. change is made or not, the committee shall ms- bring the names to the monthly meeting for its judgment; and that the information of said appointments be transmitted by minute to the Quarterly Quarterly meeting of ministers and elders, as ministers' already required by the discipline. (1836.) ?nfdr^edS When any Friend has frequently appeared Manner in in our religious meetings as a minister, and nisJers'are the preparative meeting of ministers and elders tobe iii ¦ ¦ • recom- apprehends that it is seasonable the subject mended. should claim the attention of the monthly meeting for discipline, of which tbe person is a member, they are at liberty to mention the matter therein; and if the monthly meeting, after deliberate consideration, should unite in believing that a gift in the ministry has been committed to him or her, a minute expressive thereof should be forwarded to the Quarterly meeting of ministers and elders, where, the case being solidly weighed, and the sense of the monthly meeting concurred with, informa tion thereof should be sent to the preparative meeting of ministers and elders of which the party is to be a member. And until the ap probation ofthe Quarterly meeting of ministers and elders is obtained, no such Friend is to be $4t MINISTERS AND ELDERS. received as a minister, nor permitted to sit in the meetings of ministers and elders, nor travel Not to * abroad as a minister. And no such approved meetings minister is to appoint any meeting out of the Qlt &c' use that evil practice may not suddenly be come drunken to the greatest degree, yet they often thereby become like ground fitted for the seeds of the greatest transgressions ; and some who have had the good example of virtuous parents, have from small beginnings arrived to a shameful excess, to their ruin, the great -70" MODERATION" AND TEMPERANCE. injury of their :^^^^j^families, and the scan-> at ven- dal of the religions profession they have made. , dues. It having been observed that a pernicious custom has prevailed upon people, of giving rum and other strong liquors to excite some to bid at vendues to advance the price, which, besides the injustice of the artifice, is scandal ous, and leads to intemperance and disorder; it is therefore the unanimous sense of this Meeting to caution Friends against the same. And if any under our profession do fall into, this evil practice, by giving or taking strong liquors at vendues, or countenance or promote any noisy gatherings, they should be speedily dealt with as disorderly persons, and if they cannot be brought to a sense of their error, disowned. importing Many just and pertinent remarks being ingspui- made in this Meeting, clearly setting forth the tuous u- corrupting, debasing, and ruinous effects, con sequent on the importation and retailing large quantities of distilled spirits, whereby the in temperate use of them is greatly aided and en couraged, to the impoverishment of many, dis tempering the constitutions and understandings of many more, and increasing vice and disso luteness in the land, wherewith many reli giously attentive minds have been long painfully burdened ; it is the united sense of the Meet ing, that well-concerned Friends in all quar- MODERATION AND TEMPERANCE. 71 ters, be earnestly excited to suffer the affecting importance of this mighty evil, religiously to impress their minds, and animate them with a lively concern to excite honest endeavours, both by example and loving entreaty, to cau tion and dissuade all our members from being concerned in the importation or retailing dis tilled spirits, or giving countenance thereto. It is affectionately recommended, that Friends Modera- be careful to use moderation on account of marriages, marriages, births and burials, and on all other &0- occasions; a departure from which being a cause of stumbling to many, and a great ob struction to a more full reformation, as well as attended with other evil consequences, tending to obscure that light which we have to hold up to others, and should have more abundantly, if we were faithful ; lessening that savour which we ought ever carefully to preserve, agreeably to the monition of the holy apostle, " Let your moderation be known unto all men, the Lord is at hand." Phil. iv. 5. And as the all-seeing eye beholds our thoughts, and views us in all our ways and actions, what manner of men ought we to be in all godliness of life, and sobriety of deportment ! And if any should distil spirits, or sell such Distilling liquors, monthly meetings should deal with spirits. 8 them as with other offenders, and if they can not be prevailed with to desist from such a -72 * MODERATION AND TEMPERANCE. Monthly practice, be at liberty to declare their disunity TS with them. (1832.) with distil- Monthly meetings ought to take an early opportunity, tenderly to treat with such of our members as are concerned, either in the impor tation., distillation or sale of spirituous liquors. And if, after faithful, patient labour to convince them of the awful, demoralizing effects of their conduct, and its inconsistency with the testi mony of our religious society, they cannot be prevailed upon to relinquish the business, the said meetings be at liberty to put the discipline in practice against them. (1832.) Liquors as A tender, religious care ought to be ex- a ' tended to such of our members as are in the use of spirituous liquors as a drink, or handing it out in harvest, or at other times, in order to dissuade them from the practice. (1832.) Renting Friends are also tenderly advised, to abstain proper y, from renting their property or furnishing any materials whereby our testimony against spiri tuous liquors, as a drink, will be violated. (1841.) NEGROES OR SLAVES. It appears to have been the concern of this Testimony Meeting, revived from time to time with in- silvery creasing weight, to testify their entire disunity gj°^ethe with the practice of enslaving mankind,, (and trade. particularly to guard .ill in membership with us against being concerned in the purchase of slaves from the coasts of Africa,) yet as we have with sorrow to observe, that in some parts of our country this shameful practice is still con tinued and connived at, we think it proper to revive the advices heretofore issued, and again exhort our members to be no way accessory to this enormous national evil, but to discourage it by all the justifiable means in their power; it being obvious, that wherever it prevails it tends to corrupt the morals of the people, so as not only to render them obnoxious to the dis pleasure of the Almighty, but deaf to his warn ings, and insensible and regardless of his im pending judgments. And we earnestly desire it may become the This op- concern of our members generally, to use the cksTto be influence they have with those who hold slaves ^st™^ by inheritance or otherwise, that they may be ed ani as- • sis ted treated with moderation and kindness, and in structed as objects of the common salvation in 74 NEGROES OR SLAVES. the principles of the Christian religion ; as well as in such branches of school-learning as may fit them for freedom, and to become useful members of civil society. Also that Friends in their several neighbourhoods advise and assist such of the black people as are at liberty, in the education of their children, and common worldly concerns. Hiring Understanding that some in membership pl'iVGS with us, either through inadvertence or from selfish motives, have hired slaves to assist them in their business; we desire such to consider, that in so doing they promote the unrighteous traffic and oppose our testimony against it. And it is our sense, that when slaves are thus hired, and the price of their services is intended for the benefit of those who claim the right of ownership, and not designed or applied to pro mote the liberation of the slave or slaves, such conduct is a violation of our testimony.. And where any among us cannot be persuaded to v relinquish the practice, monthly meetings be / at liberty, after patient labour has been found unavailing, to testify their disunity with them. Caution to Friends are also cautioned against acting as and ad- executors or administrators to estates where mimstra-tors. slaves are bequeathed; and doing any thing whereby their bondage may be prolonged. We are united in judgment, that the state NEGROES OR SLAVES. ?# of the black people who have been held as Kindness slaves by any of us or our predecessors, calls to them" for a deep inquiry and close examination, how far we are clear of withholding from them what under such an exercise may be opened to our view as their just right ; and we earnestly and affectionately entreat those in particular who have released any of them, to attend to the further openings of duty. Even if no such obligations to this people existed among us, it is worthy of our serious consideration, whether any object of beneficence is more deserving of our regard, than that of training up their youth in such virtuous principles and habits, as may render them useful and respectable members of the community. It is the sense and judgment of this Meet- importing, ing, that if any of our members are concerned ^u.1^. in importing, selling, or purchasing; or shall !ns> orgiy- r ° , c° xi 1 ins away give away or transfer any negro or other slave, slaves. with or without any other consideration than to clear their estate of any future incumbrance, or in such manner that their bondage is con tinued beyond the time limited by law or cus tom for white persons; and also those who accept of such gift or assignment; — they ought to be speedily treated with in the spirit of true love and wisdom, and the iniquity of their conduct laid before them. And if, after Chris tian labor, they cannot be brought to such a sense of their injustice, as to do every thing 76' NEGROES OR SLAVES. which the monthly meeting shall judge to be reasonable and necessary, for the restoring such slave to his or her natural and just right to liberty, and condemn l their deviation from the law of righteousness and equity, to the satisfaction of the said meeting, that such member or members be testified against as other transgressors are by the rules of our dis cipline for other immoral, unjust, or reproach ful conduct. It appearing that, notwithstanding the many afflictive dispensations with which Divine wis dom has seen meet to visit this land, many of its inhabitants are so deaf to the language of the rod, as to continue in the nefarious traffic for slaves to the coasts of Africa ; and that the importation of them is still connived at: this The meet- Meeting, considering such a conduct as a bold sufferings anQl impious defiance of the Ruler of nations, to dis- and pregnant with the most alarming conse- courage "¦ " ° the slave quences to our country, earnestly recommends to the meeting for sufferings to embrace every suitable opportunity for advancing our testi mony in this respect, and for calling the atten tion of the public mind to this awfully in teresting subject. OATHS. Advised, that our Christian testimony be Testimony faithfully maintained against the burden and ^the imposition of oaths, according to the express command command of Christ and the injunction of the apostle James, viz. "Ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths; but I say unto you, swear not at all : neither by heaven, for it is God's throne; nor by the earth, for it is his footstool; neither by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great king. Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black: but let, your communication be, yea, yea; nay, nay; for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil." Mat. v. 33 to 37. "But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath; but let your yea, be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation." James v. 12. From the year 1718 to 1771, divers minutes Partif *° of this Meeting appear, declaring that oaths ministra- administered by clerks or others under the 0a^a° •**¦ XL . J%~ OATHS. Deviationcause of disown-ment. lotice and connivance of Friends, either in court or elsewhere, violate our ancient testi mony. And it is earnestly recommended to Quarterly and monthly meetings, that where any under our name are parties to the ad ministration of oaths, to be careful to proceed in dealing with them; and if they will not decline the practice and give suitable satisfac tion to the meeting they belong to, to testify against,. them agreeably to the rules of our discipline. As it is our duty to support our Christian testimony against oaths, faithful Friends are desired to extend^^W^Wy labor * towards those who deviate therefrom; anarvf such labor proves unsuccessful, monthly meetings should testify their disunity with them. And Friends in all places are exhorted, carefully to avoid electing or promoting their brethren to such stations in civil government as may subject them to the temptation of violating this testimony : and where any mem bers show an inclination or desire of soliciting or accepting of such offices, timely care should be taken' to caution them against it. And in the execution of instruments of writing re- Witnesses, quiring witnesses, it is recommended that Friends endeavor to procure such persons for this purpose, as will attest the same by ^ affirmation. OVERSEERS. • It is recommended, that in every monthly Appoint meeting a proper number of faith ful and men ' judicious men and women belonging to each of the particular or preparative meetings, be appointed to the station of overseers within the same : whose duty it is to exercise a Their vigilant and tender care over their fellow- uty" members; that if any thing repugnant to the harmony and good order of the Society appears among them, it may be timely attended to and not neglected. And to prevent the introduc tion of all unnecessary and premature com plaints to meetings of business, it is advised, if any member shall have cause of complaint against another, that it be mentioned to the overseers; who are to see that the party com plained of has been treated with according to gospel order, previously to the case being re ported to the preparative or monthly meeting. And it is desired that in dealing with any, it be done in the spirit of meekness and love, To be per- patiently endeavoring to instruct and advise a°chris-n them; which, if ineffectual, the preparative tian spirit meeting should be informed thereof; that, if needful, the case may be laid before the monthly meeting, of which, notice should be given to the party when it can be conveniently done. SO^ OVERSEERS. Committee It is further recommended to our monthly three meetings, that a committee be appointed at. years. least once in three years, or as much oftener as the occasion may require, to consider the propriety of changing the overseers, and bring ing forward in the improvement of their gifts, other Friends on whom a concern for the wel fare of the Society rests. Serious And we tenderly exhort all our members tion. who may be rightly called into this or any other service of the church, not hastily to excuse themselves therefrom, but solidly to ponder the weighty advice of the apostle, " Feed the flock of God, which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind ; neither as lords over God's heri tage, but being ensamples to the flock: and when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away." PARENTS AND CHILDREN. In much love to the rising generation, we The rising exhort them to avoid the many vanities Lnd Snorted11 ensnaring corruptions to which they are ex- to avoid ri . * •> ensnaring posed. Bear in mind, dear youth, that "the corrup- fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;" and that " a good understanding have all they who do his commandments." Psalm cxi. 10. Take the advice of godly parents, guardians and friends ; ever remembering that, next to our Creator, children ought to obey their parents, and that disobedience to them is a breach of the moral law, and was always offensive in the Divine sight. Submit to their reasonable requirings with cheerfulness, though these may sometimes thwart your own incli nations, and answer them not frowardly or crossly. They watched over you and took care of you, when you were utterly unable to help or take care of yourselves. Why then should any of you grieve or wound their still anxious minds by a conduct which, because of its tendency to obstruct your welfare and hap piness, you know they cannot approve ? Such as running into vain and expensive fashions; associating with corrupt and libertine persons; frequenting taverns and places of diversion; wasting your precious time in idle discourse, fits' PARENTS AND CHILDREN. and drawing the affections and inflaming the passions one of another : all which we have np_J doubt the divine Monitor in your own, breasts! often pleads with you against, and shows to/ be destructive of your peace. We peseech you, as fathers,, to attend to this heavenly Instructor, ancyawtifully yield to the correspondent tender advice of your friends. Shrink not from the cross of Christ in your garb, language or manners; but through a subjection of your wills to the Divine will in these and all other respects, walk answerably to the purity of our profession, and the sim plicity and spirituality of our worship. So may you be instructive examples to serious inquirers after Truth; and not of those who, under a profession thereof, are preferring their own crooked ways, and turning others aside from the footsteps of its followers. Obstinate It is advised, that where the pious exercise of parental care and authority is disregarded, and any of the youth in membership with us, appear obstinately determined to run into and copy after the vain and extravagant fashions of the world in their dress and address, ex posing themselves to the corrupting influence of evil company and excesses, whereby design ing persons may entangle their affections, and draw them into unsuitable and unhappy con nections in marriage or otherwise, — that such be timely and tenderly treated with, and shown PARENTS AND CHILDREN. — 8^* the dangerous tendency of their conduct: and Treated if they cannot be prevailed with to desist therefrom and amend their ways, they ought to be dealt with by their respective prepara tive or monthly meetings, as in other cases of offence; and if, after due expostulation and forbearance, they prove irreclaimable, they may be testified against. And if any parents in membership with us, Parents willingly indulge their children or youth under chiidrenm their care in such extravagance, liberties and excesses- excesses, as are here pointed out, and persist in vindicating their conduct, they ought in like manner to be treated with and disowned. Friends are advised to bring up their chil- Children dren to habits of industry, placing them with among sober and exemplary members of the Society, Fnends- for instruction in such occupations as are con sistent with our religious principles and testi monies, that as far as in us lies they may be preserved in a becoming conduct and demeanor. And it is desired, that those whose circum- children stances may furnish with ability for instructing 0° mode!n in useful and suitable employments, the chil- rateterms. dren of members who are in situations less affluent, may receive them into their families upon terms so moderate and equitable, as to remove every plausible reason for placing them with those not in membership with us. PLAINNESS. Corrupt Advised, that all Friends both old and and young keep out of the world's corrupt lan- to1>e0nS SuaSeJ manners, vain and needless things and avoided, fashions, in apparel, buildings, and furniture of houses; some of which are immodest, inde cent, and unbecoming. And that they avoid immoderation in the use of lawful things, which though innocent in themselves may thereby become hurtful; also such kinds of stuffs, colors and dress, as are calculated more to please a vain and wanton mind than for real Caution to usefulness. And let tradesmen and others, tradesmen j^g^^g 0f our religious Society, be ad- others, monished that they be not accessory to these evils; for we ought to take up our daily cross, minding the grace of God which brings salva tion, and teaches to deny all ungodliness and worldly lusts, and to live soberly, righteously and godly in this present world, that we may adorn the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ in all things; so may we feel his blessing, and be instrumental in his hand for the good of others. Simplicity We tenderly exhort all, seriously to con- recom- J ...... , . mended, sider the plainness and simplicity which the gospel enjoins, and to manifest it in their PLAINNESS. fSfi! speech, apparel, furniture, salutations and con versations; into which our forefathers were led by the Spirit of Christ, in conformity with his precepts and example ; and for which they patiently suffered long imprisonments and great persecutions ; being convinced that it was their duty thus to bear a testimony against the vain spirit of the world. The spirit of Truth, which led our ancients Truth to lay aside every thing unbecoming the follow- plainness. ers of Christ, still leads in the same path, all who submit to its guidance ; we therefore earnestly entreat all Friends to watch over themselves in this respect. The example of our blessed Saviour, his immediate followers, and of virtuous and holy men in all ages, ought to make a due impression on every considerate mind; and especially on such as have had the advantage of a guarded education. We "also tenderly advise, that Friends take Plainness heed, especially those who should be exemplary Without0 to others under their care, that they exercise resPeot of ' •> persons. plainness of speech without respect of persons, in all their converse among men ; and not balk their testimony by a cowardly compliance, varying their language according to their com pany; — a practice of very ill example, render ing those who use it contemptible, and looked upon as a kind of hypocrites, even by those £8 POOR. with whom they so comply. This seems to be cautioned against by the apostle, when he advises, 1 Tim., " That the deacons be grave, not double tongued ;" plainly importing that it is inconsistent with the gravity of the gospel. POOR. Advice IT is advised, that the cases of all our mem- and assist- kers wno are in indigent circumstances be duly ance to be _ o _ J afforded, inspected, that advice and relief may be season ably extended, and assistance afforded to them in such business as they are capable of. And in order to defray the expenses which their support and the education of their children will necessarily occasion, it is recommended to each monthly meeting of men and women Friends, to be open-hearted and liberal in sub- Funds to scriptions for raising and continuing funds for e raise . ^hese purposes; — that the meetings of each Treasurer sex should appoint a treasurer to receive the appomte gamej an(j a committee of suitable Friends to account have the particular care of the poor; whose business it will be to visit, inspect into their wants, and relieve them. And in the exercise of this benevolent care, it is desired we may always guard against exposing the names or HIRELING MINISTRY. SP situations of our fellow-members. And an situations appointment should be annually made of two feiioT- or more Friends for settling the treasurer's me™bers ° not ex- account, and reporting its state to the meeting, posed. PRIESTS' WAGES, OR HIRELING MINISTRY. Let us keep in remembrance, that it is Gospel under the immediate teaching and influence ^thouf of the holy Spirit that all acceptable worship r.eward J x *¦ x from man. is performed, and all true gospel ministry sup plied; that this pure and powerful influence, in vessels sanctified and prepared by the Divine hand, is the essential qualification to that work; and that, as the gift is Divine, the ser vice is freely and faithfully to be discharged, without any view to reward from man. And it is advised, that where any of our Support of members are so regardless of this testimony as minSry8 to contribute to the support of an hireling J88^1 ministry, and vindicate such conduct, that they be tenderly labored with to convince them of their error; but if this prove ineffec tual, and they persist in their unfaithfulness, the monthly meetings to which they belcng S'S" QUERIES. should proceed to declare our disunity with them : such conduct being opposed to our testimony for the free ministry of the gos pel, which is, " without money and without price." Attending And it is further advised, that Friends be others!P ° careful themselves, and discourage their chil dren from attending the worship of those who are not in communion with us. (1841.) QUERIES. au an- It is agreed that the nine queries belonging to meetings for discipline, be read, deliberately once a year' considered, and answered in each preparative and monthly meeting once a year ; in order to convey an explicit account in writing to the Quarterly meetings next preceding the Yearly Meeting; that so this Meeting may be clearly informed of the state of all our meetings. when Also, that the first, second and eighth of second those queries be read, considered, and explicit and eighth answers to them made in writing in the two answered. Quarterly meetings preceding the one before mentioned, and also in the preparative and QUERIES. --89 monthly meetings which report thereto. But none of the queries are to be read or answered in those Quarterly meetings for discipline which immediately succeed the Yearly Meet ing, nor in the preparative or monthly meet ings which report to those Quarters. It is not considered as obligatory on any when not meeting to read the above queries oftener than is here mentioned, or to read any others than such as are to be answered. Nor is the reading and answering of them enjoined on any preparative meeting, where the mem bers of that and the monthly meeting are the same. It is further agreed, that at the time when Advices ,i ¦ j • , i , • and cau- the nme queries are read m the preparative t;on t0 be and monthly meetings, the advices and caution read onoe ... . a year. subjoined shall be also distinctly read and solidly pondered; as a means of putting the members present upon considering, whether there be any occasion for an extension of care in those respects: and, if there is, of stirring them up to a faithful discharge of their duty as individuals, one towards another. ,jj First Query. Are all our religious meetings for worship and discipline duly attended; is the hour observed; and are Friends clear of sleeping, and of all other unbecoming behavior therein ? 8* Are Friends clear of the manufacture and sale of all intoxicating beverages; are they careful to discourage their use as a drink ; and is due caution observed in the use thereof as a medicine ? Are they careful to discour age the attending of places of diversion, and She "unneces sary frequenting of taverns ? And do the^gkeep to true moderation and temperance on account of marriages, burials and other occasions ?' QUERIES. /-9-t clandestine trade ; buying or vending goods so imported, or prize goods; and against en couraging lotteries of any kind ? Seventh Query. Are Friends careful to live within the bounds of their circumstances, and to keep to moderation in their trade or busi ness; are they punctual to their promises, and just in the payment of their debts; and are such as give reasonable grounds for fear on these accounts, timely labored with for their preservation or recovery ? i Eighth Query. Do you take due care regu larly to deal with all offenders in the spirit of meekness, without partiality or unnecessary delay, in order for their help ; and where such labor is ineffectual, to place judgment upon them in the authority of Truth ? Ninth Query. Is due care taken to keep a regular record of births and deaths ? -&•• And in the preparative and monthly meet- Advi: es. ings, when all the foregoing queries are read and answered, the following advices are to be read with a suitable pause between them : As suitable marriage connections tend to the 9n mar" promotion of our happiness and comfort in life, it is affectionately advised, that when any of our members are about to marry, they seek w QUERIES. Second Query. Are love and uiity maintained amongst you ? Are tale-bearing and detraction discouraged ? And where any differences arise, are endeavors used speedily to end them ? Third Query. Are Friends careful to bring up those under their direction, in plainness of speech, behavior, and apparel; in frequent reading the holy scriptures; and to restrain them from reading pernicious books, and from the corrupt conversation of the world ? Fourth Query. Are Friends cleai/df the tillakion or saleNpf spiritueus liqjlrfrs; and thevVeareful to drso kiragel the uM thereof .dri'nra. — and from a tendiflg pWc/s of divert r&nd thVunnec^ssarf freq^entm/ taverns ? 'pi do they^keep in t|ue n}odera£ion and temperT he account ofjmar/iages, burijdls anf GcaslQni? (1839 § Fifth Query. Are poor Friends' necessities duly inspected, and they relieved or assisted in such business as they are capable of? Do their children freely partake of learning to fit them for business; and are they and other Friends' children placed among Friends ? Sixth Query. Do you maintain a faithful testimony against oaths; an hireling ministry; bearing arms, training, and other military ser vices; being concerned in any fraudulent or «9T QUERIES. for Divine counsel and direction therein; and that their parents or guardians be early ac quainted with their intentions. And it is recommended that marriages be accomplished decently, gravely, and weightily ; that modera tion be observed, and that no cause of reproach occur; but that all behave with such sobriety as becomes a people fearing God. (1842.) Gifts and legacies. That all public gifts and legacies be strictly applied to the uses intended by the donors; or, if any unforeseen occurrence should render such compliance difficult or impracticable, that an early application be made to the meeting fof sufferings for its advice or assistance ; and that timely care be taken for the renewal of trusts. Certificates. That Friends intending removal be careful to apply for certificates; and that the cases of such who remove without certificates, or of sojourners coming from other places and ap pearing as Friends, without producing certifi cates, be properly attended to. Inspect affairs. That Friends carefully inspect the state of wms,s'&c. their affairs once in the year; and make their wills and settle their outward estates whilst in health. Conductsing the And it is further recommended, that in con ducting the affairs of our meetings, Friends QUERIES. -93* endeavor to manage them in the peaceable affairs of spirit and wisdom of Jesus, with decency, for- mee mgs' bearance and love of each other. The following queries are also to be read, Annual considered and answered, once a year, in each queries- monthly and Quarterly meeting, and a report' thereof made in writing to this Meeting : and it is recommended that in answering the query respecting schools, monthly meetings furnish their respective Quarters with par ticular accounts of the situation and circum stance of the several schools within their limits, and that the Quarterly meetings convey to this Meeting a summary statement thereof. First Query. What changes have been made in the times or places of holding Friends' meetings; and what new meetings have been settled? (1836.) Second Query. Are there schools established for the education of our youth, under the care of teachers in membership with us, and super intended by committees appointed either in the monthly or preparative meetings ? Third Query. Are the queries addressed to the. Quarterly, monthly and preparative meet ings, read and answered therein as directed ? QUERIES FOR MEETINGS OF MINISTERS AND ELDERS. whcntobe It is also concluded, that of the following four queries, formed for the use of the meet ings, of ministers and elders, the first three be read and distinctly answered in writing three times in a year, by each preparative meeting of that kind, to its respective Quarterly meet ing : and that all the said four queries shall be in like manner read and answered, by the pre parative to their Quarterly meetings next pre ceding the Yearly Meeting of ministers and elders; that the Quarterly meetings may be enabled to transmit a clear and distinct state ment of those answers to that Meeting. First Query. Are ministers and elders care ful to attend meetings for Divine worship, bringing their families with them ? Do they diligently attend meetings for discipline, en couraging such of their families to this duty as are of proper age, and suitable deportment ? /Second Query. Are ministers sound in word and doctrine; careful to minister in the ability which God gives ? i Third Query. Are the lives and conversa- QUERIES. -9#* tion of ministers and elders clean and blame less amongst men? Are they in unity one with another, and with the meeting they belong to, harmoniously laboring for Truth's honor. Fourth Query. Are they good examples in uprightness, temperance and moderation ; and careful to train up their families in plainness of dress and simplicity of manners, becoming our religious profession ? And it is earnestly and affectionately recom- Ministers mended, that ministers and elders watch over advisedTo one another for good, to help those who are ^j^JhT exercised in the ministry in the right line; for good. discouraging forward spirits that run into words without life and power ; advising against affectation of tones and gestures, and every thing that would hurt their service; yet encouraging the humble careful traveller; " speaking a word in season to them that are weary." And let all dwell in that which gives ability to labour successfully in the church of Christ, adorning the doctrine which they de liver to others; being examples of the be lievers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in fahh, and in purity. RESIGNATIONS. When any member of our religious Society, who has not become an offender by violating any rule of Discipline, shall offer a resignation of their right of membership, it is advised, that the monthly meeting, if way opens, appoint a committee to visit such person in love, and in quire into the cause of their resignation ; and if his or her mind continues unchanged, a minute may be made, stating that he or she is released at his or her request; of which the party should be informed; and such individual is not to be considered a member of our society, until received again according to our usual order. (1846.) SECRET SOCIETIES. Under a tender concern for the preserva tion of our members in that purity and sim plicity which become our Christian profession, this Meeting is engaged solemnly to caution them, and especially the younger part of so ciety, against any connection with the societies SECRET SOCIETIES. —9-7- of " Free Masons," the associations calling them selves " Odd Fellows," or any others requiring of their members a pledge of secrecy. Many of these extract money from their members under the plausible pretence of benevolence; whilst they frequently draw them away from their families and business, into places and practices inimical to their best interests. Their convivial meetings, their vain, ostentatious pro cessions, and high sounding titles, are corrupt ing in their tendency, and inconsistent with our religious profession. Friends are therefore earnestly and affectionately advised against becomine- or continuing members of any such associations. Our Divine Master encouraged no secret societies. His disciples were to stand as a crty set on a hill, which could not be hid. They were to let their light shine before men, that they,, seeing their good works, might glorify our Father who is in heaven. Overseers, and other concerned Friends are advised to extend timely caution and admonition to all cases where any of our members have joined such societies, or. may be in danger of thus being led astray by them. k^^H" G SCHOOLS. institution The education of our youth in piety and port ofP" virtue, and giving them useful learning under schools, the tuition of religious prudent persons, hav ing for many years engaged the solid attention of this Meeting, and advices thereon having been from time to time issued to the several subordinate meetings; it is renewedly desired, that Quarterly, monthly and preparative meet ings, may be excited to proper exertions for the institution and support of schools; there being but little doubt, that as Friends are united, and cherish a disposition of liberality for the assistance of each other in this im portant work, they will be enabled to make such provision for the accommodation and residence of a teacher, with a family, as would be an encouragement to well qualified persons to engage in this arduous employment: for Effects of want of which it has been observed, that chil- oAhese dren nave Deen committed to the care of under the transient persons, of doubtful character, and care of . A ' ' Friends, sometimes of very corrupt minds, by whose bad example and influence, they have been be trayed into principles and habits which have had an injurious effect on them in more advanced life. It is therefore indispensably incumbent on us to guard them against this SCHOOLS. -9-9- danger, and procure such tutors of our own religious persuasion, as are not only capable of instructing them in useful learning, to fit them for the business of this life, but to train them in the knowledge of their duty to God and one towards another. It is therefore proposed, First. That a lot of ground be provided in House for each monthly or preparative meeting, suffi- a cient for a garden, orchard, grass- for a cow, &c. and a suitable house erected thereon. Second. That funds be raised by contribu- Funds. tion, bequests, &c. in each meeting; the in terest of which to be applied either in aid of the tutor's salary, or lessening the expense of Friends in straitened circumstances, in the education of their children. Third. That a committee be appointed in Com- each monthly or preparative meeting, to have the care of schools and the funds for their sup port, and that no tutor be employed but with their consent. Although the raising a sufficiency to answer En- those purposes may in some places appear diffi- 10 raise cult, yet as improvements of this kind are funds- generally gradual, and have often arisen from small beginnings into very valuable establish ments, it is desired that Friends may be encouraged thereto, and keeping an eye to the »£0©~ OLD AND NEW TESTAMENTS. Divine blessing on their benevolent endeavors, make such essay for carrying into effect these recommendations as they may be enabled. SCRIPTURES OF THE OLD AND NEW TESTAMENTS. We tenderly and earnestly advise and ex hort all parents and heads of families, that they endeavor to instruct their children and families in the doctrines and precepts of the Christian religion, as contained in the scrip tures; and that they excite them to the dili gent reading of those excellent writings, which plainly set forth the miraculous concej)tion, birth, holy life, wonderful works, blessed ex ample, meritorious death, and glorious resur rection, ascension and mediation of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ; and to educate their children in the belief of those important truths, as well as in the belief of the inward manifestation and operation of the holy Spirit on their own minds, that they may reap the benefit and advantage thereof, for their own peace and everlasting happiness ; which is infinitely preferable to all other considerations. STOCK. Agreel, that there be collections brought in from each Quarterly, unto the next Yearly Meeting, for a Yearly Meeting stock, to defray the charges of the said Meeting, according to the several agreements made or hereafter to be made. (1695.) A stock having been generally kept, and by experience found useful for the necessary occa sions of the Society, it is agreed, that the same be occasionally renewed by a collection from each Quarter; and that it be continued in the hands of the treasurer appointed by this Meeting, and subject to be drawn out by its direction, or by the meeting for sufferings, as the exigencies of Society may require. The sums which may be thought necessary, shall be raised by each Quarter, in the propor tions which may be ascertained by this Meet ing from time to time. An arrangement of the quotas of the several Quarterly meetings, produced by a committee appointed for that purpose, was agreed to in 1847, as follows : -401 "fS^" TAVERNS. Philadelphia Quarter to pay $20 in every $100. Ahington 14 " " Bucks 14 " " Concord 14 " " Cain 4 « " Western 13 " " Southern 2 " " Burlington 6 " " Haddonfield 5 " " Salem 7 " " Fishing Creek Half- Year meeting 1 " " $100 TAVERNS. Fre- We think it necessary to caution, not only taverns8 the youth but those of riper age, to avoid the and other unnecessary frequenting of taverns and other piRG6S OI rtii* t ii public re- places of public resort ; that they be not ex posed to noisy company and unprofitable con versation; or betrayed into the use of strong liquors, by which so many have been corrupted both in principle and practice, to the ruin of themselves and their families. And if any are in danger on these accounts, it is desired that they may be timely and tenderly treated with in order to convince them of their danger. Caution Considering the temptations and snares which they are exposed to who keep houses TESTIMONIES OF DENIAL, ETC. 403- of public entertainment or beer-houses, the keeping corrupting influence of many who resort to them, and its effects on the children and families so exposed; it is the judgment of this Meeting, that our members avoid engaging in such employments for a livelihood ; and attend to the pointings of pure wisdom for that end. And it is desired, that Friends may endeavor, increase as far as their influence extends in the com- signing munity, to prevent the unnecessary increase Peti^ons of taverns, and be cautious of signing petitions couraged. in behalf of those who may apply for license* on that account. TESTIMONIES OF DENIAL, AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS. It is the sense of this Meeting, that offenders Acimow- inclining to make acknowledgment of their to be^in a offences, dt> prepare the same in writing ; and wntins- if, on consulting the overseers or other judi cious Friends, the purport appears suitable to the occasion, and the situation of the party will admit of it, he or she may present it to the meeting in person, and stay till it is read; when, after time given for a solid pause, they ,*04~ TRADE. should withdraw before that or any other busi ness is proceeded upon. The meeting is then to consider the case, and appoint two or more Friends to inform the party of' the result. Notice ' In all cases where a meeting apprehends issuing a itself under a necessity to disown a member, testimony. ]et sucn member, if the occasion and his or her situation will admit of it, be previously in formed thereof: and when the judgment ofthe meeting is issued, let a copy thereof be de livered to the party testified against, with noti fication of his or her right of appeal. TRADE. Truth is IT being evident, that where the manifesta- safe in its guidance, tions and restraints of the Spirit of truth are duly prized and regarded, it leads out of a bondage to the spirit of this world, and pre serves the minds of its followers from many fettering and disqualifying entanglements ; and inordinate contrariwise, that an inordinate love and pur- richesin- SUlt of worldly riches, often betrays those who diffi6Sitn are captivated by them, into many difficulties and dangers, to the great obstruction of the work of Truth in the heart : we affectionately TRADE. ~M5" desire that the counsel and gracious promise of1 our blessed Redeemer to his followers, may be borne in remembrance by us, " Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you." This Meeting being earnestly concerned that Engage- the service of our religious ' Society may not be bTwithin obstructed, or its reputation dishonored, by any °urj means imprudence of its members in their worldly strictly engagements, recommends to all, that they be careful not to venture upon such business as they do not well understand; nor to launch out in trade beyond their abilities, and at the risk of others; especially on the credit which may be derived from a profession of the Truth ; but that they bound their engagements by their means; and when they enter into con tracts, or give their words, that they endeavor on all occasions strictly to fulfil them. We particularly exhort that none engage in Hazardous such concerns as depend on the often decep- ^l's t0 tive probabilities of hazardous enterprises; but beavoid- i • i ed> anci a rather content themselves with such a plain moderate and moderate way of living as is consistent uvingkept with the self-denying principle we make pro- to- fession of; whereby many disappointments and grievous perplexities may be avoided, and that tranquillity of mind obtained which is insepara ble from the right enjoyment even of temporal things. And it is advised, that where any -1QG-* trade. among us err, or are in danger of erring in these respects, they be faithfully and timely admonished. inspect It is recommended that Friends frequently aniTwhen inspect the state of their affairs, and keep their needful, accounts so clear and accurate, that they may, at any time, easily know whether they live within the bounds of their circumstances, or not ; and, in case of death, that these may not be perplexing to survivors. And whenever any find that they have no more property left than is sufficient to discharge their just debts, Consult it is advised, that they immediately consult with some judicious Friends, and, without loss of time, make their circumstances known to their creditors; carefully avoiding the pay- And avoid ment of one in preference to another, that so •ence" none may be injured, nor any reproach be incurred by mismanagement. And where overseers, or other concerned Friends, have reason to fear that any person or family, by living above their means, or from a want of punctuality in fulfilling their contracts, or any other cause, are declining in Those their circumstances, and likely to fail, it is feu & be recommended that such be seasonably treated season- with, and (if it appear requisite) advised to treated call their creditors together without delay. And if, notwithstanding this advice, such per sons still persist and run into embarrassment, TRADE. Tdf" to the loss of others and to their own disrepu tation, the preparative or monthly meeting to which they belong, ought to be timely informed thereof, and proceed to deal with them accord ing to our rules; when, if this labor also prove ineffectual, a testimony of denial may be issued against them. It is advised that where such failures occur, Assignees and the cases are under the care of monthly tobe"^68 meetings, that the Friends appointed to visit i™ieA of the parties inquire of their assignees or trus tees, how their deficiencies have happened, and report accordingly. And it is the judgment of this Meeting, that neither monthly nor other meetings should receive subscriptions, dona- when sub- tions or bequests from persons so circum- &"a^e°not stanced, until they have paid off their deficien- to be re- i-i ¦ pi ceived. pies, or are voluntarily acquitted thereof by their creditors : for it should be remembered that though, in such cases, the defaulter may 'havebeen legally discharged, the property heTwhen of jifiay afterwards acquire is not properly his^ayj„st0 '5 debts^ to the satisfaction of the credif&rs: "W h^ejore we turffi'er advise,' that IF "any suchr person or persons, on being suitably reminded of their duty in this respect, shall refuse to comply therewith, inquiry be made into the reason, and if it be not such as shall satisfy the monthly meetings of which they are mem- Or be dis- bers, and they cannot be prevailed with, — the °7ne ' idS* TRADE. said meetings, after a proper time of labor and forbearance, may issue a testimony of denial- against them. ah cases In order regularly to bring all cases of failure /to blre-6 before preparative and monthly meetings for ported. , their care, and also, a provision more effectually to insure an impartial distribution of the effects of insolvents, the following rules were adopted. (1816.) Overseers When any member of our religious Society quire°int0 in trade or business becomes unable to dis eases of charge his or her debts, the overseers should failure ° . .... and lay take an early opportunity to ascertain the cir- before cumstances of the case, and spread the same meeting, before the preparative meeting, in order that it may be regularly forwarded to the monthly meeting: and if it shall appear that such fail ure has arisen from a want of due attention to the advices of this Meeting on the subject of trade and business, and has brought reproach on our religious profession, the monthly meet ing shall be at liberty to i88«e«««HiestinTOHy*e£ disownment. (1816.) Creditors And it is also the judgment of this Meeting, suiteYand that when any of our members are about to Hbert to assi§n their property, their creditors should be appoint consulted, if practicable, and have the liberty of appointing assignees to take charge of the effects, which should be assigned without any TRADE. !€§¦ condition or reservation; and if the party do not so proceed, the case shall be treated as is directed in the preceding paragraph. (1816.) Advised, that when Friends accept the office Duties of of trustee or assignee, they be active in collect- assisuees- ing the effects of the estate, and punctual and speedy in making distribution. Advised, that Friends everywhere carefully Govem- avoid being anyway concerned in defrauding j£e£* *[°* the government of its duties; that so our frauded- ancient testimony in this respect may be in violably maintained. We warn our members against a pernicious Mere practice amongst the trading part of the com- ^edu dis- munity, which has often issued in the ruin of couraged. those concerning therein, viz. : That of raising and circulating a kind of paper credit, with endorsements, to give it an appearance of value, without an intrinsic reality ; a practice which, as it appears to be inconsistent with the Truth we profess, we declare our disappro bation of, and entreat every member of our Society to avoid and discourage. We also caution all in membership with us Joint se- to avoid entering into joint securities with captioned others, under the specious plea of rendering against. acts of kindness; many, by so doing, having "Been suddenly ruined, and their h 140- TRADE. luced to deplorable circum stances. " Be not thou," said the wise man, "one of them that strike hands; or of them that are sureties for debts. If thou hast no thing to pay, why should he take away thy bed from under thee ?" Divine We affectionately desire that Friends may be waited wait for Divine counsel in all their engage- for' ments, and not suffer their minds to be hurried away by an inordinate desire of worldly riches ; remembering the observation of the apostle in his day, and so often sorrowfully verified in ours, that " They who will be rich, fall into temptation and a snare;" and, erring from the faith, " pierce themselves through with many Dangers sorrows." Even when riches to any extraordi- ricnes* nary degree have been amassed by the success ful industry of parents, how often have they proved like wings to their children, carrying them beyond the limitations of Truth, into liberties repugnant to our religious testimonies, and sometimes into enterprises which have terminated in irreparable damage to their temporal affairs, if not an entire forgetfulness of the great work of the soul's salvation. WAR. Friends are exhorted faithfully to adhere Exhorta- to our ancient testimony against wars and faiafui" fightings, and in no way to unite with any in mainte- warlike measures, either offensive or defensive; ourtesti that by the inoffensiveness of our conduct, we monj may convincingly demonstrate ourselves to be real subjects of the Messiah's peaceful reign, and be instrumental in the promotion thereof, towards its desired completion, when, accord ing to ancient prophecy, " the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea ;" and its inhabitants "shall learn war no more." When goods have been distrained from any Overplus not Friends on account of their refusal to pay fines traints for non-performance of military services, and to be a°- . cepted un- the officers, after deducting the fines and costs, less in the propose to return the remainder, — it is the T^B, sense of this Meeting, that Friends should maintain their testimony by suffering, rather than accept such overplus ; unless the same or a part of it is returned without a change of the species. It is declared to be the sense of this Meet- Furnish ing that furnishing wagons, or other means for ^fgons a £K2- WAR. military conveying military stores, is a military service ; and that the care of elders, overseers and faith ful Friends, should be extended in true love and Christian tenderness, to such as deviate herein, in order to convince them of their error. Tax for It is the sense of this Meeting, that a tax, drums. &c. i • -i /» .i 1 p -i -i levied tor tne purchasing of drums, colors, or for other warlike uses, cannot be paid con sistently with our Christian testimony. Viewing This Meeting fervently recommends to the operations deep attention of all our members, that they ra ^nC°the ^e religi°USiy guarded against approving or unstable showing the least connivance at war, either by party ad- attending at or viewing of military operations ; or in any wise encouraging the unstable deceit ful spirit of party, by joining with political devices or associations, however speciously dis guised under the ensnaring subtleties commonly attendant thereon: but that they sincerely labor to experience a settlement on the alone sure foundation of pure unchangeable Truth ; whereby, through the prevalence of unfeigned Christian love and good will to men, we may convincingly demonstrate that the kingdom "we seek is not of this world. A kingdom and government whose subjects are free indeed! redeemed from those captivating lusts from whence come wars and fightings. A living concern for the advancement of our vised against, WAR. -1*8" testimony to the peaceable kingdom of Christ, Business ,• ¦ , i • . -, n . .onnected continuing to spread in many minds, a fervent With war desire hath prevailed amongst us, that the mem- *°^ed bers of our religious Society would carefully avoid engaging in any trade or business pro motive of war, — sharing or partaking of the spoils of war by purchasing or selling prize goods, importing or shipping goods in armed vessels, paying taxes for the express purpose of war, grinding of grain, feeding of cattle, oi selling their property for the use of the army : that through a close attention to the monitions of Divine grace, and guarding against the sup pression of it either in themselves or others, they may be preserved in a conduct consistent with our holy profession, from wounding the minds or increasing the sufferings of each other; not at all doubting, that He to whom appertains the kingdom and the power, who is wonderful in working, will continue to carry on and perfect his blessed cause of peace in the earth. A solid attention to this concern Payment is recommended to Quarterly, monthly and taxes in °F preparative meetings, and to our brethren in lieuofper- ,... ,.. pi-Ti/r sonal ser_ general; it being the judgment of this Meet- vice, ing, that if any of our members do either y™Ss or openly or by connivance pay any fine, penalty traS?g *" or tax in lieu of personal service for carrying cates on war, or allow their children, apprentices or thTpur-^ servants to act therein, or are concerned in Pose of 7 war, cause arming or equipping vessels with guns, or deal of dealing. in public certificates issued as a compensation 10* H JA4f WILLS. for expenses accrued or services performed in war, that they be tenderly dealt with, and if they cannot be brought to an acknowledgment of thei^ error, monthly meetings are at liberty to testify against them. Military It is the sense and judgment of this Meet- not to be"3 mg? that it is inconsistent with our religious paid, how- testimony and principle, for any Friend to pay ever ap- J r r 7 J jt ./ plied, a fine or tax, levied on them on account of their refusal to serve in the militia, although such fine or imposition may be applied towards defraying the expenses of civil government: and where deviations in this respect occur, tender dealing and advice should be extended to the party in order to their convincement and restoration; and if this proves ineffectual, monthly meetings should proceed to testify against them. WILLS. To be Knowing how quickly many are removed ^timeot Dv death, it is weightily recommended, that (health. care \ye taken by each monthly meeting, that Friends who have estates to dispose of, be advised to make their wills in time of health, wills. 'llSr and strength of judgment; and therein to direct their substance as in justice and wisdom may be to their satisfaction and peace ; laying Laying aside all resentment, though occasion may have resent-11 been given, lest it should go with them to the m«at- grave ; remembering, we all stand in need of mercy and forgiveness. Making such wills in due time can shorten no one's days, but the omission or delay thereof to a time of sickness, when the mind should not be diverted from a solemn consideration of the approaching awful period of life, has often proved very injurious to many, and been the occasion of creating animosities in families, which the seasonable performance of this necessary duty might have effectually prevented. Friends are earnestly recommended to em- To be ploy persons skilful in the law, and of good persons 7 repute, to make their wills; as great incon- qualified . -, i ¦ i . therefor venience and loss, and sometimes the ruin of families, have happened through the unskilful- ness of some who have taken upon them to write wills, being unqualified to act in a matter of such importance. And all Friends who may become executors or administrators, are advised to make a full, clear and perfect in- Advice to ventory of the estate and effects of the de- lnd°ad-rS ceased, early after the interment; as many m™lstr»- difficulties and disputes have arisen, and some times injustice been done, for want of it, or by deferring it too long. WOMEN'S MEETINGS. Esta blished in Divinewisdom. Their ser vices as follows. Forasmuch as our womeriPs meetings for discipline were set up and established in Divine wisdonA and by long experience have been found of ^advantage, not only to the Society in general, but to the youtb/of their own sex in particular ;\ it iseaxnestjy desired, they_jmay be encouragl^ta"co^n^TqTto tKeTielppf their breiHren in ithat parfoof the discipline of. the cKurcF"prbpeBly clainfing their jttten tion .and care. On considering the nature and extent whereof, it is Vpn/ehended a benefit might accrue, by explMSly setting forth their dis tinct allotment aft separate services in their rly meetings, and also in monthly and Qi their Yearly Mefetinl Women's njbnthly Meetings, are, Care of the poor. First. Tqf inspect ariti relieve the wants of the poor of" their own \ ex; and where their own fundi are insufficient, they are to apply to the men's meeting far their aid, and for their concurrence, as cases|shall require. Proposals Seajjnd. To take cognizafece of proposals of riage?r niarrpLge, and appoint two Iof their members to inquire into the conversal|on and clearness 116 women's meetings. 117 oiwie woman; also two to the oversight of thelparriage. ThircL They are to appoint a suitable num- Overseers. ber of overseers, who are to treat with offenders of their ow% sex ; that their cases be laid before the women ik preparative, and if needful their monthly meeting; which should proceed to deal further with such delinquents and report Mode of the result of their labors to the men's meeting; offenders. and if further deVling is expedient, the men should appoint a committee to unite with the women therein; thetreport of -which joint com mittee is to be made lp each' meeting, and the women having considVed/ihe same, are to in form the men's meeting%)Jf their sense thereon, Men to be aad_th^subjex±Ja„be,J^ men. But when a c^se\ is brought by the tn6 case- womelTlnt© -4he mej^s meeting, if on solid consideration furthef dealing does not appear to be heedful, and ^ffie., men '^re most easy to issue it, "a committee should tie appointed to prepare a testiniony of dis©w%ment,x which, when approved/is to be sent tb^the women's meeting- for their concurrence, an1| Care in de livering it to .(she party. \ Fourth. 0n application of a woma& for ad- Admission S . . \ . . or reui- mission oj reinstatement into membership; statement after a religious care therein hath beei^ exer- ^"yp1"" cised bf women overseers, and in the prepara tive n/eeting, as the case may require,^he 118 WOMEN S MEETINGS. Certificates of removal. Acceptance of certificates. women's monthly meeting is to make pohitment to join the men ; the report ofj united committee is to be made to eag ing, \pd the women's meeting, sideredN|he same, are to convey |&eir thereon to the men's meeting, wjfere the sub ject shall 6§ considered and finajjfy resulted. Fifth. They\ are to join |fi certificates of removaLfor worsen Friends #in order whereto, the women's monthly meeting is to appoint two or more of \ eir necessary inquiry, tl pared ; and, after women's, is to be 1 ing; and when returned to the signature : but i include one orfmore re. omei thK mbers to make the e/same may be pre- considered in the re the men's meet- pproved and signed, meeting for their certificate is intended to ...:, then they are to report the resjfit of their hjqiairy to the Friends named on tbe like inquiry b4 the men's meet ing; in which the certificate\being approved and signed, is to be sent to theWomen's meet ing for^heir concurrence and feigning. And all cerMficates received for womenVFriends, are to be^laid before the men's meetingVbefore they carybe fully accepted by the womeii^ meeting. Concerns / Sixth. When a woman minister apprehends as Sjnerself under a religious engagement t\ travel ter- Tin Truth's service, she is first to spreM her / concern before the women's meeting; ai|d if YEARLY MEETING. —1-2& seventh day of the week preceding; and both to begin at the tenth hour. It is agreed, that such Friends as may committee be appointed to prepare epistles shall meet ™J?is~ together before they proceed on the service, and also examine the several essays previous to their being laid before this Meeting. Agreed, that all letters or papers directed On official to the Yearly Meeting, except from such meet- Bpond ings as regularly correspond therewith, be first enoe- perused by a few Friends to be appointed; who are to consider and report, whether the same be proper to be read in this meeting or not. Agreed, that when extracts from the minutes Extracts. of this Meeting are ordered to be sent to the Quarterly meetings, a full copy shall be sent by each of those meetings to their respective monthly meetings, and by the monthly to each of their preparative meetings, in order that each meeting may have a copy thereof, to have recourse to as occasions may require. The certificates of such Friends, members Certifi- of other Yearly Meetings, who from a religious concern are drawn to attend this, are to be read herein. INDEX. r.wi ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 10| APPEALS 7, 8 See Testimonies of Denial 10J ARBITRATIONS 8 Mode prescribed for settling differences ib. Either party not complying, to be complained of to the monthly meeting 9 Erroneous or unjust award, cause of rehearing 10 Arbitrators may consult counsel in the law ib. Particular cases exceptions to the positive rules 11 Permission for a trial at law ib. Overseers in certain cases, to advise a speedy settle ment without reference 12 Preparative meeting concurring therewith, the com- laint to be dismissed ib. BIRTHS AND BURIALS 13 Committee for the preservation of order and solemnity at burials ib. Caution when attending the burials of those not in communion with us ib. 126" index. PAS1 Invitations to funerals, where a hireling minister is expected to officiate, not to be published in our meetings 14 Formal or customary meetings at interments, advised against ib Committee to have care of our burial grounds, and granting permits to those not members ib. Marks allowed of 15 Directions to monthly meetings ib. Extravagant expenses advised against ib. Records of births and deaths to be kept 15, 16 BOOKS 17 Oversight of writings, vested in the meeting for suf ferings, on the author's application ib. Persons publishing that which tends to excite disunity and discord among us, to be disowned. ib. Printers and booksellers not to sell or lend pernicious books 17,18 CERTIFICATES 18 For travelling Friends, to be returned, and all certifi cates to be recorded ib. Mode of signing 19 Of removals ib. Residence gained on receipt of the certificate 20 Persons falling into necessitous circumstances, or who are reduced through unavoidable losses, to be assisted ib. Certificates to be sent after such as have removed without applying for them., 21 If their conduct has been exceptionable, they are to be treated with, and the manner pointed out ib. INDEX. -iSft- PAGE Parents, guardians, &c. to apply for certificates for minors 21 • Persons coming amongst Friends without certificates, and being of disorderly conduct, to be treated with 22 Recommendation to visit such who bring certifi cates ib. See Ministers and Elders ,C.&k?Q&- Concerning marriage L.4-7r4£- Correspondents ". 22 CHARITY AND UNITY.....' 23 Caution against resentment. See Wills i, UN CIVIL GOVERNMENT , 24 No office or station to be accepted, the duties or exer cise whereof may violate our testimonies 24 Election to offices or stations ib. Caution against defrauding. See Trade vjf^" CLERKS— See Discipline 40 CONDUCT AND CONVERSATION 25 Immorality to be testified against 26 Blasphemy, and denial of the divinity of Christ — testified against ib. Strict justice to be observed in all our dealings 27 CONVINCED PERSONS 28 Order prescribed for receiving persons into mem bership ib. Nation or color, no obstruction if the applicant is united to us in principle and practice 29 i££r index. PAOfl Such as have been disowned received as other appli cants 29 DANCING— See Diversions ^ 4$ DAYS AND TIMES 30 Reasons for not observing fasts, &c ". 31 DEFAMATION AND DETRACTION 32 Gospel order held up to view ib. Persons guilty of detraction to be dealt with ib. Reporters and tale bearers also to be dealt with 33 DISCIPLINE AND MEETINGS FOR DISCI PLINE 33 Connection and subordination of meetings 34 To make or alter any rule of discipline, men and women Friends to unite 34 ^Meetings set up by consent of superior meetings ib. A meeting for worship consisting of members of two or more monthly meetings ib. Minutes of the business of meetings to be kept in books provided for the purpose 35 Cases too weighty or difficult for monthly meetings, should claim the care of Quarterly meetings ib. Copies of minutes or records may be granted to meet ings, or individuals 36 Representatives to be appointed, to attend Quarterly and Yearly meetings ib. Mode of treating with such as reside at a distance.... 37 Offenders not to sit in meetings for discipline 38 Explicit accounts of sufferings to be forwarded by Quarterly meetings to meeting for sufferings ib. Rights of children whose parents have been married contrary to our order 39 INDEX. A2& PAGE Sorcery to be testified against 39 Clerks to be seasonably changed 40 Use and design of preparative meetings ib. DONATIONS AND SUBSCRIPTIONS , 4/ ELDERS to be chosen -gi- Mode of their appointment ; $% Appointment of a committee once in four years to consider of changing them ib. FAMILY VISITS 41" GAMING AND DIVERSIONS 42 Different kinds enumerated as cause of disownment... ib. LAW 48" Refusal to pay debts cause of disownment ib. Debtors' effects to be surrendered or they disowned... 43 Christian charity to be exercised ib. Ability to pay deficiencies if not complied with, cause of disownment ib. See also Trade ' fff- Suing at law except with certain restrictions dis-\ allowed of and to be testified against 44- LEGACIES AND BEQUESTS— See Donations 41" Meeting for Sufferings ¦65. Strictly applied 92- LIBERTY OF CONSCIENCE- See Civil Government 23 I -1W INDEX PAOB LOTTERIES— ^- See Gaming 4fr MARRIAGES 45- Divine counsel to be waited for ib. Principles on which our good order is founded 455-46- Mode of proceeding in marriage AQ+AZ Consent of parents, and certificates of clearness, to be produced * 4£- Rights of children of widows to be secured.... ib. Form of marriage certificate .4dr49- Marriages of first cousins, and all others so near akin, not to be permitted £#=#£- Care and caution to prevent mixed marriages ¦Oft' Members to be admonished ... ib. Mixed marriages, and those before a priest or hireling minister, to be treated as offences .l,5-tp&3- Members who marry those not in membership, out of *™~ the order of Friends, may be retained without a written acknowledgment, where no immoral con duct or breach of our testimonies, has occurred.. -53- See Advices following Queries -84- One party not in membership 52 MEETING HOUSES &*¦ Timely care advised for inspection of titles of real estate held by meetings, that the trusts may be seasonably renewed ib. Regular account to be preserved, when, and with whom the papers, minutes, &c. of meetings are deposited ' ib. MEETING FOR SUFFERINGS S4- Its services and duties 51 56 INDEX. tSi PAGE MEETINGS FOR WORSHIP .- -5?- Unbecoming behavior requiring admonition ib. Exhortation to diligence in attending meetings ib. Such who wilfully neglect them and are not reclaimed by the labor of Friends, to be disowned '691 Drowsiness in meeting is offensive ib. MEETINGS FOR DISCIPLINE— See Discipline, &c 34^40 MEMORIALS 44 See Meeting for sufferings I §§¦ le- ¥ MINISTERS AND ELDERS ; t. 60- ^Advice to ministers :..' ib. Misbehavior of ministers requires admonition .'."': ib. Public opposition to approved ministers disallowed.... 61 Appointment of Elders ,.61,.£2 Recommendation of ministers ^63$ 64 No minister to appoint meetings out of the limits of their Quarterly meeting, but with the consent of the monthly meeting .64 Elders, appearing in the ministry ib. Ministers concerned to travel are to spread their con cerns before the monthly meetings ib. General religious visits are to have the concurrence of the Quarterly meeting -65 Monthly meeting certificate, sufficient to attend one of the Yearly Meetings on this continent ib. Also to visit the meetings of one or two Quarterly meetings adjacent to our limits, belonging to New York or Maryland ib. Meetings to render assistance to ministers perform ing religious visits, if requisite 63^66 JrSS"" INDEX. PAGE Preparative meetings of ministers and elders ¦6S' Quarterly meetings, of ditto &f- Yearly Meeting, of ditto ib. Concerns of ministers for crossing the seas, to be considered in the Yearly Meeting ib. Meetings of ministers and elders are not to interfere with meetings for discipline ¦68- Mode of treating with a minister or elder who may lose his or her service ib. MODERATION AND TEMPERANCE jS& Idle company and evil practices to be avoided ib. Giving or receiving strong liquors at vendues ¥9" Ruinous effects of distilled spirituous liquors A*%. Moderation at marriages, &c. recommended 74- Distillation of spirits, or selling such liquors, causes of disownment ib. Using spirituous liquors, as a drink, advised against .. %2r See Fourth Query .00- MONUMENTS— See Marks 15 MUSIC— See Diversions 42 NEGROES OR SLAVES 7& Advice, assistance and school learning to be given to this people 74 Hiring slaves opposed to our testimony ib. Caution to executors and administrators ib. Advice to such as have held slaves %Ar3^ INDEX. _133. PASl The importation, selling, purchasing or giving away 3, testified against 75 OATHS -re- Members that are parties to, or connive at their clerks administering oaths, to be treated with ib. Violation of this testimony to be testified against S8- Friends advised against electing or promoting their brethren to offices, in government whereby this testimony may be violated ib. Recommendation respecting witnesses to instruments of writing ib. OFFICES IN GOVERNMENT— '¦¦% See Civil Government ..„ 23, 24 OVERSEERS 70- Their service and duty ib. Appointment of a committee once in three years to consider of changing them 80 PARENTS AND CHILDREN -84- Youth exhorted to avoid ensnaring corruptions ib. Such who go into extravagant fashions or fall into evil company and excesses, to be treated with.... 82 Parents indulging their children in extravagance «&3- Children to be brought up to industry ib. Children of the poor to be instructed in useful em ployments, on moderate terms ib. PLAINNESS .84- Caution to tradesmen and others ib. Maintenance of this testimony in our speech, without respect to persons _86- 12 -H$4- INDEX. PAGE See Third Query -86" ^POOR ~M Advice and assistance to be afforded them ib. Funds to be raised for this purpose ib. Situation of our fellow-members not to be exposed 87 See Fifth Query -9# PRIESTS' WAGES OR HIRELING MINISTRY 87 Gospel ministry, free ib. Violation of this testimony to be testified against ib. Advice on attending the worship of those not in com munion with us 88 QUERIES "8S For meetings for discipline &9=»93 For meetings of ministers and elders. ©4;-95 RACES— See Gaming and Diversions 43 RECORDS— See Births and Deaths 16 Certificates 18 Discipline 35' Copies to be given ib. Marriage certificates -48- Meeting houses 53 Mmni^mmlmga*-*** .....«•— 4M Yearly Meeting 12^f RELIGIOUS VISITS— See Families 4i INDEX. xt§& PAGE Ministers and elders G£=&3 -W ' .ilia -. ft.-ttf^.TTS1 v *>- REMOVALS— A%e Certificates , 20-22 Discipline treating with such as are at a distance 37 ^Wma&ggwg^ggto.. \ .,.. ""^ag REPRESENTATIVE COMMITTEE, OR MEET ING FOR 'SUFFERINGS #T REPRESENTATIVES— See Discipline 36 RESIGNATIONS 96 SECRET SOCIETIES ib. RIGHTS OF CHILDREN— See Discipline 39 Marriages, children of widows -47- SCHOOLS 98rW See Queries "98* SCRIPTURES M9- SORCERY— See Discipline 39 SPIRITUOUS' LIQUORS— Dram drinking. See Moderation and Temperance... -6©- Taverns .'. A03- *&%&. INDEX. PAGE STOCK 10* Arrangement of the quotas IDS- TAVERNS 102- Unnecessary frequenting them to be avoided ib. Caution against keeping them ib. Friends to exert their influence against the unneces sary increase of them 103 TAXES— /See War .111-114 TESTIMONIES OF DENIAL AND ACKNOW LEDGMENTS 103 Acknowledgments, to be in writing ib. Members under dealing to be notified that a testimony is to be issued 104- Information of the right of appeal ib. TRADE -104~ Engagements to be within our means and strictly ful filled 406- Hazardous enterprises to be avoided ib. Accounts to be accurately kept, and if a failure be apprehended, creditors are to be informed 10&. Such as run into embarrassment to be treated with by preparative and monthly meetings ib. Assignees or trustees to be inquired of. JJ17- Debtors acquiring sufficiency, to discharge their debts, and refusing so to do, are to be disowned ib. See the same case under Law .' -48" All cases of failure to be attended to by monthly meetings 408 INDEX. A$& PAGE Creditors to be consulted, when assignments are about to be made, and have liberty to appoint assignees 108- , Assignments to be made without condition or reserva tion ib. Defrauding the government cautioned against A&9- Mere paper credit inconsistent with truth ib. Joint securities cautioned against ib. See Queries 6th and 7th ^OySl WAGERING— See Gaming 42 WAR Ill- Exhortation to maintain this testimony ib. Overplus of distraints not to be received unless in the same goods ib. Furnishing wagons, a military service ib. Taxes for warlike purposes not to be paid JL12- Viewing military operations or joining with party spirit advised against ib. Business connected with war to be avoided J-L3" Payment of fines, arming vessels, and dealing in cer tificates issued for the purpose of war, to be tes tified against ib. Fine or tax levied on account of militia laws, not to be paid, however applied 114- See Sixth Query 90" WILLS 114- See Advices after Queries 92 ¦iS^r INDEX. Tamake or alter any rule Of discipline, men and | women Friends to unite \ •¦•¦! — , 3| Proposals of marriage ,,. TreWnejat with offender/ Adaission or reinstatement into membership. Certificates Concerns of. ministers -. Appointment of elders , Sejrvi^e of preparative meetings \ 1. §5. T^eir Ij^uarterly meetings}. X I. li Certificates of ministers''' and their conce Their Yearly Meeting \-.f- 12 |8 1 o c k . . ... 'i ^/,r^ NEARLY MEETING 433- Account of its first establishment to the present time ib.. Committee on epistles 123f Letters or papers to be examined ib.. Extracts, to go to the subordinate meetings ib. Certificates of Friends attending the meeting ib. THE END. YALE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY 3 9002 09863 0750