The Life of Martha Routh

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Table of Contents

Chapter I

Chapter II

Chapter III

Chapter IV

Chapter V

Chapter VI

Chapter VII

Chapter VIII

Chapter IX

Chapter X

Chapter XI

Chapter XII

Chapter XIII

Chapter I

- From her birth to the 25th year of her age.

Martha Routh was born at Stourbridge, in Worcestershire, the 25th of the fourth month, 1743. She was the youngest of ten children, four of whom died in their infancy; and the rest were brought up by their parents, Henry and Jane Winter, with religious care. “By keeping us,” she observes in her narrative, “in subjection to parental authority, to do or leave undone what they thought best for us, and by being careful not to let their affection sway their better judgment, they very much prevented the necessity of correction, which I do not remember to have been made use of.”

The restraining hand of the religiously concerned parent, appears to have been, in her own case, early followed by the visitations of the Divine principle of grace and Truth in the mind. “I felt,” she says, “the convicting evidence thereof very early, so as to cause me to stand still in the midst of play, to which I was much inclined; yet I knew not what it was. But as conviction followed, from time to time, I felt desires raised, that I might be a better child, and become more steady and watchful. I had impressive thoughts of a future state, and often when in bed at night, felt troubled lest I might die before the morning. At such times I was constrained to offer prayer, that I might ‘stand in awe, and sin not.’”

About the seventh year of her age, her understanding became more fully opened; and then she could look back on her very infant days, knowing of a certainty, that what she had experienced, was the work which Truth had operated in her soul; and she felt a desire to cleave thereto. “Yet,” she says, “I too often forgot myself; and although accounted by others a grave or sober child, I had to mourn in secret, that a contrary disposition would often prevail; of which I was more sensible than others, who might judge by my outward deportment.”

This deep seriousness and tenderness of conscience in early childhood, is not infrequently found described in the biography of religious characters; and probably, in very many instances, more has passed unrecorded. It yet may be thought by some persons unnatural, and by others be decried as enthusiasm. Let such readers, (if this work should meet with such,) be pleased to suspend their judgment in this respect, at least until it may appear, what kind of fruit succeeded to those early buddings of piety. For we shall hereafter find the subject of this memoir, dividing her time, in conscientious obedience to the further manifestations of grace in her heart, between the office of instructor of the youth in useful knowledge, and that of minister of the gospel; in a society, in which the liberty of prophesying being maintained on the original apostolic foundation, women are admitted, together with men, to the discharge of the Christian duty, of speaking to the church, “to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.” 1 Cor. 14:3,6:4, 5.

The same serious cast of mind, which induced thoughtfulness on her own account, appears to have led her frequently, about this time, to steal away from home, when she saw a corpse carried along for interment, and be present during the reading of what is termed the burial service. On these occasions, she says: “I attentively watched the lips of the priest, and found from one time to another, that he read the same testimony over all that were buried. And though it seemed very grateful to the human mind, to hear that all died in a sure and certain hope of a joyful resurrection; the better part in me, was stirred up to inquire how it could be, that all were in that state.

For by some knowledge and future inquiry respecting their manner of life, I found that some of them were very different from such as I had read and heard of, as having had hope in their death; as being of the righteous number, and of the just, whose memory is blessed.

“These circumstances took deep hold on my thoughts: I had to ponder them in my heart, little thinking it would be like bread cast upon the waters, to return after many days. For, as it now revives, (having sometimes had to touch on the subject in gospel ministry,) I think it would be as rational to admit of a purgatory fire, as professedly to believe that the righteous and unrighteous are companions in the general assembly and church of the First born. Our blessed Lord says, John 5:28: ‘The hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, (the voice of the Son of God, v. 25.) and shall come forth; they that have done good unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation,’ Oh Christendom! why are not your professed advocates for religion, better skilled in the mystery of true godliness? Were the tender scruples, arising in well disposed minds, enough cherished, many might become wiser than their teachers, in things appertaining to life and salvation.”

Being placed at a day school, where she had not much of the company of other Friends’ children, she found, in this situation, an inducement to deviate from the simplicity of language, inculcated by her parents at home; and she gave way, to a certain extent, to the temptation.

Some time afterwards, two Friends in the ministry, came to visit the families in that meeting; “At which,” she says, “I greatly rejoiced, though I did not expect to have been so found out and melted down under their ministry, as proved to be the case. After reminding us who were children, of the example of our parents, how carefully we had been brought up, and the steady attention, manifested in the discharge of their duty, that we might act consistently with the principles of Truth; they said, ‘What a loss and pity it would be if any of us should deviate therefrom, when out of the sight of our parents, in not using the plain language, which I well knew was my own case. I seemed like one broken to pieces, and could scarcely forbear weeping aloud. As soon as I could get to my cousin Mary Bradley, who had learned to write before me; I got her to write me a letter, which I dictated, to a scholar to whom I was much attached, expressing a hope that she would not be offended, that I could not any longer give her the title of Miss, but must call her by her proper name, as well as the other girls, though I should love them no less but rather better, because I knew it was acting contrary to the mind of my parents, and the way in which Friends spoke to one another.

“When I went to school again on second-day morning following, it was under as much weightiness of spirit, as mind or body could well bear; but going early, few were in the school, and I took my seat close to that of my governess, whom I loved much. When she came in, she spoke to me in her usual kind way, as did the other girls, and took no notice of my change of language, or more serious deportment.”

About her twelfth year, her mother fell into a lingering illness which ultimately proved mortal. She suffered much in her feelings on this occasion herself, and the effects upon her spirits were apparent for several weeks afterwards.

Of this affectionate and tenderly beloved parent she relates as follows: “Sitting by my mother’s bedside one evening, while my sisters were gone down to tea, after dozing a little, she awoke, and asked me who was with her. I went to her, and said it was I; when she embraced me with endeared affection, and said: ‘My dear child, I have been praying for you, that the Almighty would graciously take you under his notice, and preserve you in his fear, that you may be made fit for an entrance into his holy kingdom; where He is, in great mercy, preparing a place for me.’ Expression would fail to set forth my feelings at that time.”

She relates also the following anecdote of her mother: “The back part of our house looked into the yard of a large inn, that was in great reputation, which Friends as well as others usually preferred. The landlord and his wife were very kind neighbours to us; the latter would often come and ask advice of my mother. An officer of distinction happened to be taking up his quarters there; one evening having got too much liquor, he began to quarrel with some of the company, and after some time concluded to go into the yard to decide the fray. The landlord was not at home, and the landlady seeing the officer draw his sword, fainted: one of the servants exceedingly alarmed, came to acquaint us with the circumstance, fearing murder might ensue. My father was from home, but my mother quickly slipped out, passed through those who surrounded the officer; and as he was holding up his glittering sword, took it out of his hand and brought it into our house. The act so surprised him and the rest of the company, that they soon separated, and the family thereby were greatly relieved.

In about two hours after, understanding who had got his weapon, the officer sent a submissive request to have it returned; but my mother told the servant, it was safely locked up in our parlour; that she wished it to remain there till morning, and would be glad the officer himself would then call for it, and put it into the sheath. This he did, and very civilly acknowledged her kind interference. Herein was the Scripture declaration fulfilled: “The righteous are bold as a lion.”

It appears from her narrative, that as early as her fourteenth year, the mind of Martha Routh was awfully impressed, after many months of deep exercise, with a sense of duty, under the divine requirings, to appear as a minister, and tell to others what the Lord had done for her soul; but that giving way to fear, and to an apprehension that it was impossible for her, at so early an age, steadily to practice those things to which she might have to exhort others, she lost ground through disobedience, and began to be less thoughtful about her own state. And as one wrong step, she observes, often makes way for another, she began now to dislike the restrictions imposed upon her in dress, and would have chosen such apparel as might not have discovered her to be a Friend; from which, however, her father’s firmness, and the example and advice of her elder sister, were the means of restraining her.

She likewise got into the company of such young persons, as she had not heretofore been allowed to associate with, and for whose society, indeed, she had before no relish; concealing these improprieties, under the pretext of visiting a relation who lived near. “Thus,” she observes, “in giving way to my own delusions, I found the truth of the assertion, ‘That evil communications corrupt good manners:’ yes, worse, they lead into ‘vanity and vexation of spirit.’” But it was not long, before, through the influence of her friend Catherine Payton, whose ministry had before been made of great service to her, she was effectually checked in these wrong propensities.

The same Friend soon afterwards proposed to her father and sister, that a situation should be sought for her, as teacher in a boarding school, remarking that she apprehended there was something in her natural disposition, which, with a little improvement in learning, might render her useful in this laudable occupation; and that well-ordered schools, according to her observations in her travels, were much wanted for Friends’ children. This proposal being accepted by her father, she was in due time introduced, in that capacity, to a Friend at Nottingham; with a prospect of succeeding, in the course of two years, to the entire care of the school.

The account of herself, may now best proceed in her own words: I was now turned of seventeen, and my time was much employed in taking the care and oversight of the girls, which was not an unpleasant employ; though there was a variety of dispositions. Our governess [Anna Coulson] was a well qualified person; and we loved her husband much, his disposition being very pleasant.

He had lost his outward sight, yet he often heard us read, and could readily observe the mistakes we made, and correct them. He had also a precious gift in the ministry, and was to me, like a tender spiritual father.

About this time I received the following letter from my dear father.

My Dear Child,

This comes with a large salutation of my dear love to you. I have also to inform you, that through the mercy of our God, my health is pretty well restored; blessed be his holy name. We are now got into another house, which suits us better than that we left: so my dear, all things work together for good, to those that love and fear God. My dear child, my mind is biased very near to you, hoping the Lord, whom you has been taught to love and fear, from your youth even until now, will preserve you, and keep you from falling; which will be more joy to me than great riches; so that if I should never see you more in this world, I hope we shall meet in that which is to come, “where the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest.”

So my dear, I rest in dear love to you, and remain your affectionate father, until death.

Henry Winter.

The longer I was thus employed, the more weighty and arduous the task appeared to enter into for life. I had many secret thoughts and desires to resign the prospect of a public school, and be a private tutoress in a Friend’s family, though I said nothing to either friend or relative on the subject. Just at this time, my kind friend and caretaker, Catherine Payton, being again at Nottingham in the course of her religious labours, when conversing with her in her chamber on the subject, she tenderly expressed a hope, that it would not discourage me from pursuing the prospect of taking the school when resigned; and that I might not think of accepting a situation as a private tutoress, which would render my qualifications for a public station useless. I told her, a situation in a private family, was what I had seemed to prefer for myself, but was desirous of following best direction.

When I had been with Anna Coulson, from my first going, five years, her worthy husband departed this life. I was closely with him during his illness, and took down the expressions that dropped from him, which are printed in one of the volumes of Dying Sayings [*] His close was peaceful, and his removal a great loss to us all, his company being very pleasant and instructive.

A few months before his death, a young woman from a distant county, came with her mother to see two of her younger sisters, who were in the school, and during their stay, took great notice of me; she had accomplished a very liberal education, and was as lively and sensible a young person as any I have met with. After their return home, her mother wrote to inquire, if she might be admitted into the school as a parlour boarder, and have the opportunity of being in my company as much as circumstances would admit. The proposal was joined in with, though I almost marvelled at her choice; but was clearly instructed in my own mind, that through unmerited favour, there was something to be observed of the gracious dealings of divine kindness, which had stirred up and attracted the better part in her.

With this discovery, the watch word was clearly sounded in the ear of my understanding, that I must not let go my hold, and be drawn aside by her vivacity and strong affection; but be instrumental, in the divine hand, to draw her to greater stability, which was mercifully granted; and the cement of our union became very strong, through our frequently sitting alone in silence, to wait for a renewal of strength.

After some months had thus passed away, a person who called to see her, reported to her parents the great alteration that appeared in her, and that he thought her health might be endangered thereby. This so alarmed her father, who was much better acquainted with the world, and the love of money, than with the nature and power of religion operating on the mind, that he soon came to see her, and would not be prevailed upon, either by herself or others to leave her behind. Her mother was a woman of steady and religious character, but could not persuade her husband to let her return.

This separation was so wounding to nature and spirit, that it seemed like dividing the joints and marrow; for I exceedingly feared the consequence of her removal, yes, more than a final separation, in the state she then was: for she had informed me of an attachment to a young man, who had greatly desired to have her in marriage; but her mother did not approve of it, and they were both thankful she was removed from him. But alas! alas! the golden bait prevailed! and her father allowed her to be united to an unworthy character, very unlike herself every way, though at that time a member of our Society. The sorrowful tears that flowed from me on her account, are only known to that penetrating eye, which sees in secret. What cause of mourning it is, that all parents, to whom the precious charge of children is committed, are not careful to train them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, coveting for them the best gifts; desiring that their tender minds may be replenished with the dew of heaven, rather than craving for them the fatness of the earth, knowing that all things here perish with using! I was then about twenty-four years of age; and in my twenty-fifth year, Anna Coulson resigned the school. I had mentioned to her, the prospect of having one of my sisters to join me therein, which she seemed to object to, telling me the profits divided, would answer but little end. In reply I remarked, that I had had opportunity of knowing the great propriety and necessity of keeping a constant eye over the children, not only during school hours, but on all other occasions; and if for lack of that care and watchfulness, evil should befall any of those committed to my charge, it would be more cause of regret and concern, than a double or treble profit could make up.

Chapter II

- From opening a boarding School, to her marriage with Richard Routh.

My eldest sister being now married and a very precious one, next to her in age, having been removed by death, my sister Ann was willing to join me in the important concern of keeping a school. She was a faithful helper, and took the whole charge of family affairs; which she was particularly qualified for. My employment was entirely the care and instruction of the children, and we went on comfortably together.

Our beginnings were small, with regard to outward circumstances; but we were favoured with contentment to move within compass; and, through divine favour, nothing was lacking. We got a suitable dwelling near the meetinghouse, which we found of great advantage; and the school increased to our satisfaction. We had no desire to have a large number, and about fourteen was as many as was convenient. We had a steady religious servant; the children were also submissive, and agreeable one with another. Thus we got along for sometime.

About my twenty-sixth year, our dear and honoured father departed this life. He had been an approved elder in the church many years; and in the last religious meeting he attended, we were informed, he stood up, and in a very solemn manner repeated the encouraging declaration: “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: yes, says the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours: and their works do follow them.” This, there was no cause to doubt, was his own blessed experience; and though at a distance from him, yet my nature suffered deeply when I heard of the change.

It was not long before another deep and weighty exercise, the work of the ministry, was again set before me. The necessary preparation and restrictions, were clearly presented; when I experienced in deed and in truth, that “straight is the gate, and narrow the way that leads to life;” and found I was still unwilling to enter it on those terms; though anything short thereof, I thought I could be resigned to, even to be clothed in sack-cloth, if it was required.

But this was not the sacrifice called for, though I had some alterations to make in my outward appearance, which as none had ever hinted the least inconsistency of, I felt a great struggle about; and let in such arguments, as to conceive it must be a delusion; yet as I had lost my peace by gainsaying, I concluded I would do what I once saw to be right; and in great self-abasement, I made the alteration in my clothing, giving up all that seemed called for. Then, in adorable mercy and lovingkindness, light again sprung up, and my darkness; became as the noon-day; that my soul knew right well, the divine hand of power was underneath, opening the pathway for obedience, in what many esteem the “little things,” scarcely worth their notice. I likewise found it my place, to have all those who were put under my care, consistent in their apparel, so as to admit of no superfluity; and was never opposed by any parent on that account.

My heavenly Director saw fit to carry on his own work, and to lead me gently forward; though I went heavily on my way; finding, at times, the exercise of my mind to be so great, that I seemed disqualified for the usual and proper attention to the children; but when school hours were over, I retired alone, and poured out my soul in secret, with many tears, that my Almighty helper would be pleased to show me, with clearness, what I should do and what I should leave undone. I greatly desired to move forward in the obedience of faith, consistently with his divine will.

The dear children were often aware of my exercise; and I was sensible that their tender minds felt sympathy with me. The spirit of prophecy was given both to servants and to handmaids: those who came from far, as well as those who were near, clearly pointed out my state in public ministry; and some of them told me afterwards, they could have laid their hands on my head; but I kept as close as was possible from any discovery on my part, till my health became so impaired, that I was scarcely able to stand; and at length I was confined to my chamber and bed; a skillful physician having done his utmost for me to little purpose, and those who kindly watched with me in the night season, thought I could not continue long.

One night my sister sat up with me, and seeing her bathed in tears, I asked her why she was so sorrowful. She replied, “How can I be otherwise, when I am likely to lose you, and be left alone.” Her tried state so much affected me, as to cause me to make some disclosure for the first time of my own; I then said to her: “My dear sister! my sickness is not designed by the great Physician of value, for the death of the body; if that would have been accepted as a peace offering, thankfully could I have resigned it: but resignation of will, to the Divine will, in a way more trying to my nature, is what is required, and what I have been struggling under, till I am brought thus low.”

Her tender solicitude was such as might have been expected to be felt by one, so nearly interested in my welfare every way. She said, she had been fully aware, with many others of my friends, of the deep exercise I had long been under; but as I had never opened the subject to her, she was backward and fearful of mentioning her thoughts to me.

I told her, I had gone several times to our valued friend John Storer, when I seemed as under the weight of the mountains, to have opened my state, and have got a little relief; but though I mostly found him alone, I could not utter a word; which made me think, it was best to have my lips sealed with silence, as long as I could endure it. I greatly desired her supplication, with that of my nearly concerned friends, for my preservation and help, when they might be favoured to draw near the throne of grace. And feeling relieved in my spirit, after this opportunity, I was better in the morning; with my sisters help sat up a little in my bed; and in a few days left it, though so weak I could not stand alone. Having afresh entered into covenant, with a covenant keeping God, willing, through his divine help, to do what he required of me; my recovery became speedy, beyond all expectation. How rejoiced were our dear children, and many others thereat, which greatly humbled my mind! We had now kept the school nearly three years, and most of the children had nearly finished their education; that I secretly but fervently prayed, if the time was nigh at hand, when I must yield obedience to the divine will, in becoming a public advocate for the cause of righteousness, my compassionate Father would be graciously pleased so to order, that no new scholars might offer, until I became fully satisfied with his designs concerning me; for, indeed, the weight thereof seemed at times more than I was well able to bear.

The time of the yearly meeting in London coming on, my sister and myself attended it, having several of our scholars who came from that city to take home. A few weeks previous to our going, that worthy Seer in Israel, William Hunt, from North Carolina, with his companion Thomas Thornborough, were at our meeting, accompanied by Joseph Row and his wife, from London. William seemed both in public and private, as though he was led to “search” me “with candles;” and attached himself to me, in so fatherly and affectionate a manner, that dear Joseph Row and his wife, tenderly entreated me to go along with them, they travelling in a post-chaise. I did not lack a will to go, yet was afraid lest any thing should fall out by the way, in regard to public exposure; but after setting forward I was favoured with quietness and consolation, accompanying them to Mansfield, Chesterfield, and Sheffield.

When taking leave of my aforesaid dear friends, who had manifested a most tender regard, William said in a very emphatic manner: “Dear child, my love is with you in the light and in the truth of our God: therein I dearly salute you, and bid you farewell!” I felt exceedingly contrited, but so far strengthened, that if I had had the wings of a dove, I should soon have fled home, having no wish to be seen by any.

When the time came for setting out for London, the three girls who were to return to school, went to their respective homes during our absence. We met with a very kind reception from the parents of the children we took with us, and from many other Friends. Many times did the current of ministry so flow towards me, in an encouraging manner, that my soul at times seemed melted within me; and I think through no instrument, more evidently pointed, or with more consolation, than through that worthy handmaid, Frances Dodshon. How had she to proclaim as on the house-top, the secret sentiments of my heart, in offering up for sacrifice, all but the one thing required! but, in this, “I pray you have me excused.” She was till then, an entire stranger to me, but afterwards became a near and intimate friend.

After our return home, we were a quiet little family, having only the three boarders before mentioned for nearly a year, during which time our kind friends were thoughtful in regard to our outward circumstances; and lest we should be discouraged, on account of the school being so small, several kindly offered to make up our loss: but I was not free to accept any thing of the kind, knowing on what ground I stood; yet I had not liberty to tell any one but my sister, that I had craved the release for a season; and requested she would not mention it to others. So I had to bear the imputation of some for a time, that I was not humble enough to accept a free will offering, which was by no means the case; and in due season they were satisfied of the contrary.

Our justly valued friends Mary Ridgway and Jane Watson, being at Nottingham, in their way from the yearly meeting, both, but especially Mary, were so evidently led to open my state, and administer to it, that I was afraid all in the meeting would know who was meant.

I think this proved the breaking up of my controversy; for I was so brought down and humbled, in deep self-abasement, that when I got into my lodging-room, I was constrained to fall on my knees, and to offer vocally the resignation of my will, to the will of my Heavenly Father: that if He would be with me in the way I should go, and send me to “say to the north, give up,” and to “the south, keep not back,” I would obey his holy commands.

Soon after this offering, my bonds were broken, in the ninth month, and twenty-ninth year of my age, in our first-day morning meeting; though as little expected by me, at that time, as at any preceding one. After resignation took place, I scarcely knew how I was raised from my seat to say: “Keep your foot, when you go into the house of the Lord; and be more willing to hear, than to offer the sacrifice of fools.” I concluded this was on account of a man of a ranting spirit, who had been disowned, and used to disturb meetings so as often to be carried out: but he kept quiet at that time, which I trust was generally felt to be a solemn season. I was thankful I had been thus far helped to do what appeared right; it was to myself a solemn day throughout, and also to our little family.

During the seasons of deep probation, from the fourteenth year of my age, to the present time, I had much cause to sympathize with the poor Israelites, in their wilderness travel, and to exercise more charity than I had done aforetime, in reading their manifold back-slidings from the divine commands; on which account, they had to go backwards and forwards, and long to encompass the mountain; until the compassionate eye beheld them, with his wonted kindness, and opened the way for their entrance into the promised land. I think I never murmured, or thought any of the dispensations of unerring wisdom hard, neither any of his sayings such as could not be complied with, but through my own default; so in mercy he did not slay me, but permitted life to be given for a prey. I was soon again and again called upon, to bear further testimony to the divine requirings, but the reluctance was yet so great, that I was plunged into unutterable distress; and our quarterly meeting drawing near, for the joint counties of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, to be held at Mansfield, I exceedingly dreaded to go, yet dared not stay away. It was fourteen miles from Nottingham, a forest road most of the way. My sister, myself, and our three scholars, set out early, in order to reach in due season. When within three miles of the town, how did I long to have been left among the trees of the forest, there to have received the echo of my plaintive cry! I should have feared no danger to the body, had I remained there till my companions returned; but I went forward, and as soon as we alighted at the inn, retired to a chamber alone. The members of the select meeting being there the evening before, two of them soon came to me, offering as much sympathy as they were capable of, but I was not in a state to be comforted.

I went to meeting, which soon felt a gathering of great solemnity; and my wounded spirit felt a little healed thereby. Our friend John Storer, stood up, and in a very weighty manner, opened his gospel mission, with an invitation to those who were afar off to draw near, and those that were near, to acknowledge the Lord’s might; which he enlarged on, in a powerful and encouraging manner; by which I was again so far divinely quickened, as to promise obedience if called for in the women’s meeting, if I might only be permitted to keep silence in that for worship. I retired a little alone after the first meeting broke up, and thought my state must somewhat resemble Jonah’s, when he was under the weight of the mountains, the weeds wrapped about his head, and thought the earth with her bars was about him forever. I went up stairs in much fear and trembling. The meeting was for sometime very silent, when, a sentence or two powerfully arising, I stood up and expressed them, so that I believed the whole meeting could fully hear, and then remained through the business in peaceful quiet. When meeting was over, and I had returned to the inn, I was glad to lie on the bed, till our family were ready to return; thankful that I was then able to join them in the carriage. Oh my soul! can you cease to remember your misery and your affliction, “the worm-wood and the gall,” and not be humbled, under a grateful sense, that it was of the divine mercy you were not consumed! I moved along in great weakness and fear, according to my own apprehension, for many months; seldom a meeting day came, but my bodily frame was affected at the thoughts of going.

Our ancient friend Sarah Beck, being at Nottingham about this time, and having no companion, I was encouraged by Friends to go with her a few days; and I found her a tender nursing mother. After parting with her, my valued friend John Burgess, accompanied me back to a country meeting, about five miles from Nottingham, which was kept up once a quarter, where several Friends from there met us. As we rode along, one in the station of an elder remarked, that she thought it was as good for spiritual children to breathe fresh air, as for those who wanted to recruit bodily health: and then inquired if in the little turn I had taken, I had heard of any more scholars? I said no, but I then thought it would not be long before I should: and the next day, a letter came from a Friend of Bridgewater, to inquire if we could take two of his daughters.

In a short time, so many offered that the house was quite full; and an addition to our number still presenting, Friends were desirous we should take a larger house. I did not feel liberty to comply with their desire: yet in condescension to it, wished my sister to go, and look at one that was thought eligible, and the rent reasonable, both which she found to be the case. In compliance with the wish of my friend Hannah Storer, I afterwards went; but as I passed from room to room, was attended with a secret, but clear intimation, that I was not to entangle myself with a greater number of scholars, than the house we already had would accommodate; so I entirely gave up the thought, and felt peace.

I was glad our occupation was of such a kind, that we could lock up doors and attend religious meetings diligently, when favoured with health, which was in general mercifully granted; and being near the meetinghouse was a great convenience; yet one afternoon, from a heavy fall of snow, we left several of the younger girls at home by themselves; for our servant being a religious woman, attended with us. While sitting in meeting, I got thoughtful lest any hurt should befall them, accompanied with an intimation, that it was best to accustom children to endure a little hardness, and to impress their minds with the sentiment, that to attend religious meetings, was worth encountering some difficulties for; that many of tender age, when their parents were cast into prison, and the meetinghouses shut up, had, with other Friends, met out of doors, and some had been taken to prison, I believed it right in the evening, to revive these hints among the children, which had a contriting effect on their tender minds.

In the winter season, it was our practice to have them all gathered in the evening, and for one or two to read to the rest, after a little space of silence; their needle-work being of such a nature as not to interrupt the solemnity: sometimes one kind Friend or other would come and sit among us, acknowledging it was like being in a little evening meeting.

Thus we were enabled to go forward, because the good hand of our Heavenly Father was near us; and He inclined my heart, by day and by night, to supplicate for his blessing on the children; evidently feeling, that no arts, parts, or acquirements of mine, were sufficient to discharge the duty, or fulfill the trust reposed in me: and being thus engaged to seek after divine assistance, I do not remember that any dissatisfaction was manifested, either in parents or children.

About a year after my first appearance in public ministry, the Friends of our monthly meeting, united in receiving me as an approved minister, of which an elder was desired to inform me, and to request my attendance at the next select meeting. This request I was not forward to comply with, for I still feared how I might stand my ground.

Soon after this, I received a few lines from my friend John Burgess, informing me that Mary Malham, (now Mary Proud), who was on a religious visit, was coming our way, and so on to Lincolnshire, and would be glad if I would accompany her through that county. This brought me under exercise, both on account of leaving the school, and the little time allowed for consulting my friends on the subject; but my dear sister encouraged me to do both, which I did, and had the approbation of the latter: yet there was something still, in my own mind, that was not forward to close in with the proposal, for I was afraid my own inexperience might give way to the affectionate part: so that although I knew she was come into town, and lodged at a Friend’s house, whose door was alway open to me, I did not go to see her that night. The next day attending our meeting, I was so fully satisfied, that I no longer hesitated. We travelled with great diligence, mostly taking two meetings each day; and got in time to attend our quarterly meeting at Chesterfield. From there she went to York, and I returned home.

Some months after, I felt an impression to attend the quarterly meeting at York, which my friends uniting with, I was accompanied by a kind female Friend in the station of an elder.

We got to York in time for the select meeting, but I had not courage to attend it: and when entering the great meetinghouse, the next morning, I scarcely knew how I got towards the gallery; for though the gathering was very large, I saw no person, except the skirts of those who sat near me, until in awfulness, I had bowed the knee in supplication. I was then favoured to feel a peaceful quiet; thankful to hear the gospel preached by those of greater experience. After meeting, several Friends noticed me very kindly, none more so, than my valued friend Esther Tuke. Our further knowledge of and union with each other became very strong, even like “a threefold cord.”

When the meetings were over, my dear companion and self returned home, taking the meeting at Sheffield in our way, on first-day following; where Friends received us with great kindness.

Being now apprehensive that resignation of this kind, might continue to be called for, I thought it best to seek out for a steady qualified helper in my school, and found such a one in my cousin Ann Lowe, of Worcester.

I often visited my dear and much tried friend, Ruth Fallows of Castle Donnington, and sometimes accompanied her to a few neighbouring meetings. She was a true living gospel minister, and her company was helpful, encouraging, and edifying. She told me of a prospect she had of religious duty, to visit some of the northern counties, and Scotland; to which I made no other remark, than the expression of a full belief, that the same divine hand which had been her support in all her trials, travails, and exercises, would still be with her.

Some time after this conversation, my own mind was impressed with a prospect of visiting the meetings of Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and some parts of Lancashire. While this was under my notice, though not mentioned to any, dear Ruth Fallows came to Nottingham, and being at our house, remarked, she was not gone the journey she had told me of. I said: “No, though I expected you would, yet I don’t want to part with you.”

She replied: “I don’t know what I am waiting for, except it be for you to go along with me; and if so, I am willing to wait still longer; so be honest, and let me know your thoughts.” I then opened to her my prospect of the before-mentioned counties, but thought, if my friends should set me at liberty, it would be proper to inform the parents of the children, as my absence would be for a longer period than at any time before: which I did, and received their cordial approbation, and from some the expression of near sympathy.

Way being thus opened, I laid my concern before friends of our monthly meeting, who gave me a certificate, the first I had had of the kind; and after carefully endeavouring to put all things in order, relative to the children and family affairs, and my dear sister being willing, as she always was, to give me up to the pointings of duty, we took a solemn and heart tendering leave of each other.

We had many long days’ journeys, and often felt much fatigued; my bodily frame not being yet strong, and my appetite poor, that I could not take much food: but the season of the year being favourable, through divine favour, we got as speedily along, as most who had travelled the like journey. We had much cause gratefully and humbly to acknowledge, that mercy and kindness had been with us, who went to the battle, and with those who stayed by the stuff; for on my safe return, I found my family well, to our mutual rejoicing: as did my worthy companion her kind husband.

On the 7th of the eighth month, 1776, Martha Winter was married, at Nottingham, to Richard Routh, of Manchester; and removed to his residence in that town. Her Journal proceeds in the next chapter.

Chapter III

- Several visits after her marriage

- Travels with Rebecca Wright

- And at different times with several other Friends

- Visits Worcestershire

- Ireland

- Dunkirk, etc.

My bodily health, for two or three years after our marriage, was not very strong, and my exercises were many; yet I went several short journeys, besides attending our monthly and quarterly meetings, and several times the yearly meeting in London; going on horseback with my husband and several other Friends, which was the general mode of travelling at that time.

I attended the yearly meeting for the principality of Wales several times, once in company with my dear and valued friend Frances Dodshon; and on our return we visited the meetings and families of Friends in Shropshire. My dear and much esteemed companion, though in a very low, depressed state of mind, was often clothed in her gospel mission, as with the King’s royal apparel.

Some time after, I felt again the pointings of duty to attend another yearly meeting in Wales, to go from there to Bristol, and to take meetings as they lay in the way to the yearly meeting in London, and others on my return home.

For this service I had a certificate from our monthly meeting, and was accompanied by my dear friend Elizabeth Jolly; but not having gone such a journey before, without a yokefellow in gospel labour, it felt very weighty. My mind was often under secret discouragement, and in a particular manner, when my kind companion was likely to return home from London, and leave me alone, having several counties to visit.

This time of holding our annual solemnity in 1784, was a very memorable one, not only in being favoured with the company of many ambassadors from America, fraught with gospel mission, but in having the women’s yearly meeting fully authorised and established. When the yearly meeting closed, I felt exceedingly dismayed; which my dear uncle John Routh perceiving, inquired the cause of my being so affected. I told him I was likely to be left without a companion, and scarcely knew how to sustain the prospect.

He encouraged me, with all the tenderness of a beloved father in the Truth, not doubting, but I should be helped along beyond my expectation: and the way soon opened for my joining my dear friend, Rebecca Wright, one of the before-mentioned Friends from America.

Friends in general appeared well satisfied with our being united as companions; and after visiting the meetings in the city, we set forward through the counties I had in view, till we came to Manchester, where finding my dear husband and relations well, was cause of renewed thankfulness to the Author of all good, who had thus helped and provided for me beyond all expectation. It was needful for Rebecca to make some stay here, and my dear aunt, Sarah Taylor, accompanied her to several places, and meetings, which was very acceptable and encouraging to her.

My husband and friends being willing for me to join her again, we bent our course northward, taking our quarterly meeting in the way, where we had the acceptable company of Nicholas Wain. We proceeded through the northern counties into Scotland, more than twenty miles north of Aberdeen, visiting not only the meetings, but the families of Friends. It was in the depth of winter, which proved a very cold one, attended with more snow, than aged people in those parts could remember; but Friends were very kind, in caring for us. We had much trial and jeopardy in crossing some of the large rivers, on our return to Edinburgh; where we also visited the families, and had deep exercise in the labour. In coming from there to Kelso, forty miles, a very bleak open road, scarcely a track was to be found for the horses, the snow was so deep; yet that Almighty power, who calls forth his servants and handmaids, thus to work in his vineyard, was graciously pleased to lead us safely through our perilous journey, in time to attend the quarterly meeting for Yorkshire, held at Leeds; from which I returned home, and Sarah Birkbeck accompanied my dear companion for sometime; as did also my dear friend Elizabeth Jolly.

After this, I joined Rebecca Wright again, and accompanied her through the western counties, nearly to the Land’s end in Cornwall.

My dear companion Rebecca Wright was a greatly tried traveller, and was often in the deeps, of which, according to my measure, I took part with her: and sometimes hearing her mention, how differently she got along in her own country in her gospel travels, was fearful I was not such a companion to her as she had there, which often caused me to weep in the night season, and think it might be best for me to return home: but this she could scarcely bear to hear mentioned; and being closely united to her in the bonds of the gospel, I stayed with her, till I saw her on ship-board, with several others of her fellow-labourers, returning to their native land. I then stayed at home a considerable time, and was thankful I had peaceful liberty to do so.

About the year 1787, I had for some time had an opening prospect of religious duty, not only to visit the meetings, but also the families of Friends in Worcestershire, my native county; and with this impression was led to look towards Martha Howarth, a member of our quarterly meeting, as a companion.

When the time came for moving, being furnished with certificates from our respective monthly meetings, we set forward by way of Cheshire, and Coalbrookdale; and entered the county of Worcester, at Dudley, where the ancient and honourable family of the Paytons used to live; but they were then all removed by death or otherwise. From there we went to Stourbridge, where I first drew breath. In the city of Worcester, as in other places, in visiting the families of Friends, we were favoured with the company of one in the station of an elder, who could bear testimony to what we had to minister; which has always been my choice in such service. This Friend being baptised with the one baptism, could feelingly partake with us in the cup of suffering, and rejoice with us when Truth was raised into dominion; that our spirits were tenderly united, and also to the seed of God in that place. Our labours there closed with a public meeting on a first-day evening, which was a large, open, and satisfactory opportunity. We then took the other side of the county, and were favoured in like manner, with the company of helpers in the work, which closed at the monthly meeting at Alcester.

I felt pressed in spirit to return to Tredington, about six miles distant, to our friends John and Sarah Lambley’s, though the evening was very stormy, the snow falling very thick. We got there safely, and were taking some refreshment, when a young man, son of Thomas Norton, came into the house, and seemed much affected. His father had been threatened with imprisonment for non-payment of tithes; and he said two constables were at their house, and talked of taking him part of the way to Worcester that night. I then believed that this was the cause of my being impressed to return there: so we sent the young man back to request the constables to stop a while, as some Friends wished to see his father.

The distance was about a mile, and the snow falling so thick, it was not safe to go any other way but on foot, which we willingly did, accompanied by John Lambley and his valuable wife. We found Thomas Norton in a quiet, resigned state. The men very civilly offered to leave the room, and withdrew into the kitchen.

Our visit was very grateful to him, and seemed to strengthen his mind in resignation to the permitted trial. His children also seemed more settled; and the constables were willing to stay in the village till morning. On our return through Worcester, we went to see him in his prison-house, found him very composed, and reading Sewel’s History; [†] the jailer and his wife were very kind to him. Some skillful Friends in the city, on looking over the indictment believed it faulty, and took a counsellor’s opinion, who advised them to bring it to a trial; which they did, and the judge quashed the indictment, and set the prisoner at liberty in open court.

Soon after our return from this visit, a weighty exercise came over me, the time appearing to draw near for my paying a religious visit to Friends in Ireland. The prospect had been opening for several years, and on its nearer approach, believing from some hints dropped by Martha Howarth, that she had something of the same kind in view, I opened my mind to her, and pointed out the season when it might be right to move, if Friends united with us therein. So being furnished with certificates from our monthly meetings, endorsed by the quarterly meeting, held at Lancaster in the ninth month, 1789, a Friend was appointed by that meeting to accompany us to Whitehaven, where we intended to take shipping. We were detained twelve days by contrary winds; during which time we visited several families; and being at the house of our endeared friend Jane Pearson, a living minister of the gospel, the detention was made more easy.

We crossed the sea in a small vessel, were two nights out, greatly tossed, and very sick. We had two religious young women with us, who had been assistants at Friends’ school at York, and were then going to be in the like station, with dear Sarah Grubb, at the boarding school at Clonmel. We were favoured to land safe at Dublin, and were cordially received by our kind friends, Joseph Williams and his family.

Next day, the first of the week, my companion was opened in testimony in the morning meeting; but I felt closely shut up from anything of that kind, with a secret intimation very clear to my understanding: “You shall not go forth in haste or by flight, so the Lord shall go before you, and the God of Israel be your reward.” The revival of this divine promise gratefully humbled my spirit.

The half-year’s meeting drawing near, Joseph Williams accompanied us to the meeting at Baltibois, once the dwelling-place of that great and excellent minister Mary Peisley, which lying rather at an outside, it was thought best to take it then. It was a small meeting, but owned by the blessed Master; and was the closing meeting to our dear friend Samuel Smith, from Philadelphia, who after attending the half-year’s meeting, returned to England. But my dear companion and myself had to travel diligently for the space of six months, in which time, according to our measure, we largely partook of the tribulations of the gospel: and were also partakers of some of the consolations in Christ Jesus our Lord, being nearly united to the Seed in that land. Our justly valued friend Richard Shackleton, at different times and places, accompanied us many weeks, much to our comfort and satisfaction.

We had likewise in the course of our travels, the company of several very hopeful young men, who appeared to be coming forward in the paths of righteousness, and with many others had not only made a good beginning, but they ran well for a considerable time; yet alas! alas! how has the gold become dim! and the most fine gold changed! the precious sons of Zion comparable thereto, through the devices of Satan, become like earthen pitchers! and those things which they not only once knew, but held sacred, have, like the stones of the sanctuary, been poured forth, as at the top of every street! May the merciful Lord, be graciously pleased to turn back the captivity of all such, even as the streams of the south; then shall Jacob rejoice, and Israel be made glad.

When leaving Ireland, we had the company of many Friends who were coming to attend our yearly meeting in London. We took shipping for Parkgate, but the wind being against us, we had to go to Holyhead, where we had much difficulty in landing; the sea was so boisterous. Our beloved friends Robert Grubb and his wife, etc., came with us to Liverpool; from which my companion and self got safe to our respective homes.

Sometime after returning home from this visit in Ireland, I found an engagement to visit Friends in some of the southern, eastern, and western counties; but not wholly through any of them. I was accompanied, in this journey, by my endeared friend Christiana Hustler, who being taken ill in London, my dear friend Sarah Row of that city, went with me to the eastern quarterly meetings, in which we had the very acceptable company of George Gibson and his wife, and David Priestman and his wife, who all, except David, have been sometime past, gathered to the mansions prepared for them in the heavenly Father’s house. The near unity and fellowship in which we travelled together, is grateful in remembrance.

On our return to London, finding my dear companion restored, we crossed the channel to visit Friends at Dunkirk; about seven families, who had lately removed from the island of Nantucket, in North America. We visited their families and sat several of their meetings: our valued friend William Bleckly being with us on the like gospel errand. We were obliged to have passports at Calais, which gave liberty for us to travel to any part of France, during the space of one year. After stopping about eight days in the city, we were easy to leave, and wished to go from there by water to Dover; but while one of the Friends was gone, to the wharf, to see if there was a suitable vessel, it suddenly presented to my mind, we should not get away that day, which I told my companion, and other Friends present; and had but just done so, when the Friend returned, saying the city was all in an uproar, the drawbridges taken up, no passage by land or water, and that cannon were going to be placed at the avenues of the streets. This was occasioned by the arrival of an account, that the poor King had attempted to make his escape. It felt an awful time. Next morning, with a fresh endorsement on our passports, we were permitted to go to Calais by land, and crossed the water, the same evening, to Dover, which felt cause of mutual thankfulness. We were again kindly received at our friend Richard Baker’s.

My companion and self then proceeded to London, and westward as far as Bristol. In our return we came through Worcester and Stourbridge, my native place, stayed a few days with my dear brother William Winter, who some months after departed this life. He had been an approved elder in the church many years, though not an aged man. He had feared the Lord from his youth. He left a precious widow and three children. My dear companion and I proceeded pretty directly home, and found our near connections favoured with health, which, with other manifold marks of divine regard, was cause of reverent thankfulness to our Almighty Helper.

Chapter IV

- Goes to America

- Incidents on the voyage.

For several years previous to her last journey, Martha Routh had had a prospect, that it might become her religious duty, to visit the meetings of Friends in North America; under which exercise she was strengthened, by the concurrent sense and sympathy of some experienced Friends; of whom she particularly mentions John Storer, of Nottingham, and Job Scott, from North America, who respectively spoke encouragingly to her on this subject, before she herself had made known her concern.

This having at length been spread before her friends, at her monthly and quarterly meetings, and lastly at the yearly meeting of ministers and elders in 1794, she obtained their near sympathy and concurrence, and was provided with certificates accordingly.

She embarked at London, in the ship Barclay, bound for Boston, New England, the 21st of seventh month, having for fellow-passengers, John Wigham, from Scotland, who was proceeding on a similar religious visit to America, and Samuel Emlen, returning from one he had been performing to Friends in England; also William Rotch, his wife and two daughters, with other Friends to the number of fourteen in all. The voyage, through contrary winds proved tedious, and they met with much rough weather; yet were enabled frequently to hold religious meetings on board, to which many of the ship’s company and passengers came. The following incidents and remarks occur in the course of this voyage.

We continued at Deal on sixth-day, the wind being against us, the sea rough, and sickness continuing; but towards evening it got more calm. I slept comfortably that night, and waking pretty early in the morning, felt much refreshed both in body and mind. I was humbled and contrited to silent weeping, in my little but commodious lodging room, under a fresh sense of the bountiful dealings of Infinite Wisdom towards me, even from my childish years! great was the love renewed in my heart, towards my fellow passengers; and in a particular manner to William Rotch, who for some years, has been to me a brother beloved in the unchangeable Truth; and as our friendship did not commence on the surface of things, but in a heartfelt cement, from which flowed a language, as when deep utters unto deep; so it has continued gaining ground, on that rock which cannot be shaken, against which the gates of hell shall not be able to prevail and under this uniting impression, a trust was renewed that our heavenly Pilot would, in his own time, land us safely at the desired port; for which fresh mark of divine regard, my soul desired to render the tribute of praise to our God, who is worthy forever.

28th of seventh month. About two o’clock on first-day morning, I heard the captain call to his men, that the wind was got more in our favour. They were quickly upon deck, weighed anchor, and set sail; but it blowing hard, and not quite fair for us, we had a tossing time, till we anchored again at Dungeness, when we retired quietly together in our cabin, in the latter part of the afternoon; though on sitting down, I felt very feeble both in body and mind. The latter became a little helped through the impression of a belief raised therein, that many brethren and sisters, from whom we were separated in body, had been caring for us, and breathing on our behalf, both in public and private, to the great Preserver of men, which felt humbling, accompanied with secret desires, that I might be watchful over myself, and spreading towards, others, I had liberty though in weakness to make some mention of it, which was followed with an instructive addition from dear Samuel Emlen.

In the evening we sat together again, and several of our young men read to us; when, after a pause, dear John Wigham had to revive a passage that had been read: “It is not in man that walks to direct his own steps, etc.,” from which he was led to drop several instructive remarks, in a particular manner addressed to the young men. He was followed by Samuel Emlen, in tender emphatical expostulation; and I believe our minds according to our measures, were bowed in thankfulness, through the renewings of the Lord’s power, for being thus owned by Him, who, in former years, ordained a morning oblation, and an evening sacrifice.

3rd of eighth month, first-day.—About noon the wind became more still, and gave us an opportunity of sitting down quietly together; and through the renewings of our heavenly Father’s love, it was rendered a contriting season.

As I lay in bed, I had been tenderly looking towards my dear friends at home, gathered in our own meeting, not without some apprehension that their minds might be turned towards us; and my heart seemed to salute Zion’s travellers, secretly breathing to the God and Father of all our mercies, that they with us, and we with them, might witness the continuation of preservation; which desires I have no doubt are acceptable to Him, who is the blessed author of all good, and who, in unspeakable lovingkindness, has been near to sustain my mind, when outward strength and health seemed much to fail. I have thought the reduction of bodily powers, under suffering, is not without instruction, for it leads into a disposition to try the foundation we are upon, and to appreciate the blessing of knowing there is One that stands sure, having, in the language of Scripture, “This seal, the Lord knows them that are his;” and if this evidence is mercifully vouchsafed to me, through the course of the passage, however attended with bodily trial, I humbly trust my soul will be enabled to say, it is enough.

We have two captains on board who mess in the cabin, and appear quiet, steady men, setting a good example to the mariners, from whom I have not heard of any unbecoming conduct or expressions proceeding, which I think well worthy of the observation of those, exercised in the like trying occupation. Our steward or cook, is a black man named Quares Bailey. He was brought from Guinea, and sold as a slave, to the person from whom he received his latter name. His bonds were broken through the interest of W. R. He is a man of distinguished quietude, and readiness to oblige all in his power. We have live stock, sheep, goats, pigs, geese, ducks and fowls. Several of the latter have died, and others appear sickly, and do not thrive; that these poor animals seem to have their portion of suffering as well as we, which induces me to think, if I was master of a vessel, I would not bring many.

On fifth-day morning, several went out of the cabin to see the mast of a French man-of-war floating near us, the account of which made my heart sad, in considering, that probably many of our fellow creatures had sunk with the wreck of the vessel: and how entirely repugnant the ground work of such desolation is, to the nature of His kingdom, who came not to destroy men’s lives, but to save them; that I got an attendant to read me that most excellent of all sermons, preached by our blessed Lord on the mount. His doctrine astonished those who heard him; setting forth the nature of that peaceable government he was about to set up; but how few of the sons of men have been willing to understand his counsel, or follow his example, who, “when he was reviled, reviled not again, and who was led as a sheep to the slaughter, or as a lamb dumb before his shearers, opened not his mouth.” But ah! how widely different are the actions of many who profess the Christian name in the present day, who are destroying one another by every engine and artifice, that fallen nature, through the suggestions of the enemy of souls, can invent for their destruction.

Third-day, the 12th.—Sitting alone near dark in my little cabin, dear Samuel Emlen came down from walking the deck, and had to dispense in the renewing of life, the language of encouragement among us; like a well instructed scribe from the heavenly treasury, bringing forth things new and old, which drew me forth out of my closet to hear, and participate in the feeling of it.

The early part of fourth-day morning, the wind freshened and we went about six knots an hour, the vessel keeping a moderate motion, that I have nothing to complain of, either in body or mind, though the latter has felt more secretly pressed down, than at some other times; yet I trust not forsaken; for I have felt united to the few who are diligent in the attendance of our week-day meetings, who I have seemed to look at, scattered in their respective seats; and desires have been raised, that none should be discouraged or drawn aside from meeting together, when bodily health is afforded, bringing a sacrifice of that which costs them something; yet how little do we render to God of that which is his due, in the most diligent attendance of our meetings both on first and week days? I trust a remnant know this, and are engaged to offer a daily sacrifice.

I have often looked towards my valued fellow-labourer, John Thorp, in the bond of the gospel in our own meeting, in that fellowship which has united our spirits in worship, and raised desires that the Lord on high might strengthen his little ones, on whom, we had cause to believe, his anointing oil was poured forth, that they might offer to Him the turtle doves, or young pigeons, as He might see fit to call for them; similar to the disposition cherished in that dignified but meek and humble leader of the tribes in days of old, who said: “Would God that all the Lord’s people were prophets,” etc.

Second-day, 18th.—This evening the vessel continued much in motion, and remained so till towards morning, when the wind changed; and for a short time, we went nearly eight miles an hour. The tossing of the night and little sleep made me feel very languid. My mind also was much proved, though not with fear of our safe landing; but under a renewed searching of heart, respecting the embassy I was going upon; and much solicitude was raised in me, that I might so experience preservation, as to bring no dishonour to the cause. Being thus humbled, my feelings were relieved by such an effusion of tears, as I have not often shed; and I remembered, to some instruction and profit, the interesting farewell salutation of a beloved friend and younger sister: “Let your Urim and your Thummim be with the holy one of Israel, and all your needs will be made known unto Him,” etc. In a little time I seemed refreshed both in body and mind, and evidently felt in this proving season, the help of the spirits of fellow travellers, to whom I am nearly united in our present allotment together; so that I found I had much to be thankful for.

On sixth-day morning, 29th, when about to rise, our quietude was interrupted by information, that a ship, about three miles to windward, had made a signal of distress; and on its nearer approach, appeared to have lost part of the mainmast. Our captain laid to, in order to let her come up with us, with the humane intention of rendering assistance, which disposition I could not but commend, when men are at peace one with another; but at a time like this, I thought it required great clearness of judgment to know what was best to be done; and the little I felt, was entirely against stopping to aid that vessel: as it was possible that not only such appearance, and the signal that was given, but much more, might be done treacherously to decoy. When the captain perceived it was a ship of war with two tier of guns, he hoisted sail to make the best of his way, and their conduct did not wear a kind aspect, for they fired after us four times; twice the balls came so near, as to be heard whistling along the water.

Though in feeling the attention of my mind drawn inward, I was somewhat renewedly strengthened and consoled in a hope, that no material harm would be permitted to reach us; yet it was a great trial of faith, etc., and some I tenderly loved, seemed to feel it so much, that all within me was moved; and my soul bowed in supplication to our alone Almighty helper, in like manner as when I was engaged in the congregation of his people, in the last meeting I sat in London, that we might be preserved out of the hands of unreasonable men, which favour is still mercifully granted; for after our sails were set, we had a fresh breeze, and they seeing we outsailed them, though not more than a mile distant, tacked about towards England and left us; for which I believe feeling minds were humbled in thankfulness. In a little time we were quite becalmed, and had that been permitted at the critical juncture, they might have come up with us, for they were not then out of sight.

31st, first-day.—In the morning about ten o’clock we quietly sat down together as heretofore, and had cause humbly to acknowledge that our Heavenly Father owned us, by the breaking of bread, and the opening of counsel through his servants, to the states of those present.

Dear John Wigham, in a particular manner, has been rendered an instrument of instructive labour to the seamen. We had also another meeting in the evening; and as we have a hope, that the latter part of our voyage may be attended with less hindrance to quietude from contrary winds, our meeting together on fourth-day morning was then proposed.

Fifth-day.—We have felt a remarkable change in the air these few days, the weather being much colder, and the water a different colour. This evening we saw a large island of ice about a mile off, supposed to be brought from Davis’s strait.

Sixth-day.—On the grand bank of Newfoundland. The captain sounded, found forty fathoms water; about seven lay to, and put out fishing lines, but did not catch anything. Saw the Good Intent from Dartmouth, in Nova Scotia, one of the mates and some of the men being desirous to go to her, put out the boat, not without some reluctance on the part of our friend, W. Rotch, who was very anxious lest they should come to any damage. I was glad when they got safe back, for the boat seemed at times so covered by the waves, that I scarcely dared look at it. They took a present of rum and porter, and brought back thirty-five codfish; some supposed to weigh fifteen pounds.

Sixth-day, 12th.—The weather very fine, sea calm. I can scarcely regret our slow motion, which is so salutary to my bodily feelings. In the evening I went again on deck, and stood on the hen-coop to view the solemnity of the sky. The moon was risen; the stars were also beautifully bright; and the sea so smooth, that the captain thought he could go safely on a plank; such are the changes in this vast and wonderful element!

Fourth-day, 17th.—The weather still fine, the wind favourable, going smoothly along. We held our week-day meeting, which some of us were ready to apprehend might be the closing one of a public kind; we had cause humbly to acknowledge it was a favoured season, graciously owned by Him, who is a God hearing prayer, to whom solemn supplication was made by our valued brother J. Wigham, for the continuation of the blessing of preservation unto us.

They were preserved from any serious accident until very near the port of Boston; where the captain’s brother, acting as a seaman on board, went up to reef the sails of the main-topmast, and falling from there into the boat on deck, was killed on the spot. This accident cast an impression of sadness over an arrival, in other respects most acceptable to the company; and their tender sympathy with the captain was called forth, in due attention to his feelings, in a parting religious opportunity with the sailors, and in the attendance of the burial of the deceased, by the men Friends who were passengers.

Our friend landed the 23rd of the ninth month, from which period her narrative proceeds in the next chapter.

Chapter V

- Her labours during the remainder of the year 1794 and part of 1795.

On fifth-day, the 25th of ninth month, I attended the week-day meeting at Boston, in company with my valued brethren Samuel Emlen and John Wigham, and my dear friends William Rotch and family, etc. On our sitting down my mind was much contrited, under a renewed sense of the protection of Divine Providence, who had seen fit to favour us to assemble together, at the desired port; when the testimony of the apostle was feelingly illustrated in my view: “That peace which surpasses the understanding of man;” of which I had to make some mention, and a little to point out, who were likely to partake of this peace, and what were their trials, etc. My aforesaid brethren bore living testimonies to the sufficiency of the Lord’s power, to make us what He would have us to be; and the meeting ended in supplication for the continuance of His care, over those He called forth in his work.

My mind still felt much weight and exercise, respecting the families that professed with us; and my dear friends W. and E. Rotch were willing to stop with me, till I felt liberty to go.

We stayed till third-day, which gave time to sit with the families accordingly; to mourn over the desolation which seems so general, that when a few who have kept their places, may be removed from works to rewards, it looks likely our Society will become extinct in that city; unless it should please Him, who sends forth his servants to the highways and hedges, when those that are bidden will not come to the supper, to call in others. Among such, there seemed great openness, and I cannot but think, if the few had all kept their places, there might have been here a gathering.

On first-day morning, I had opportunity to clear myself, in a close expostulating testimony towards Friends. The afternoon meeting being put off till six o’clock, was largely attended by those not of our Society, so that a great number could not get into the house. This for some time prevented that quiet, which on all such occasions is desirable; yet as my mind was preserved in stillness, I was so far strengthened to labour, as to encourage a hope, that the precious cause did not suffer. I felt a peaceful release to depart with my friends W. and E. Rotch and their son, who met us there, and went to Bedford; getting well there on fourth-day evening.

A few miles before we reached the town, a silent solemn covering spread over us, under which I believe our hearts were mutually comforted, in a grateful tribute to our Almighty Helper, in that my beloved friends were so near being restored to their dear connections; on whose account I had often felt greater solicitude than for myself, during our watery passage and now I was made in some measure to partake in their humble rejoicing.

The next day was the select meeting for the quarterly meeting, to be held there, which felt to me rather a low, trying season; yet my mind seemed peacefully sustained in quiet poverty.

I was most easy to confer with my valued friends W. and E. Rotch alone, to propose and have their consent for their daughter L.’s accompanying me; on which account I was not, void of near sympathetic feelings, in so soon taking her from her justly beloved connections; all which her parents endeavoured to remove, and, through their love to the cause, and near sympathy with me, freely gave her up, believing she would also give up to what was thought best for her; and her father wrote to her on the subject to Nantucket, where she and her sister Mary were gone.

Next morning at Bedford, I was favoured with inward quiet, but little opening for public labour, till near the close, when I thought it safe to express the plaintive language, that had been much the attendant on my mind: “They have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him;” which in a spiritual sense, appeared to be the language of Zion’s travellers. A few remarks were given me to add, to encourage the labour of such, that the exercise might not be let go; for I had to believe, that, in the appointed time, the joyful tidings would be heard: “He is risen from the dead, and goes before you, etc.” I continued there over first-day, waiting L. R.’s arrival from Nantucket, which the wind did not favour, till second-day evening; when she came with John Wigham and David Sands, a Friend from the state of New York, bound for England on gospel labour, and who was taking leave of Friends of this part.

14th of tenth month, 1794.—On third-day morning, after a precious humbling opportunity with them, and the near relations of my companion, under the melting influence of gospel love, we took leave of each other; and were accompanied by to Salem, about eighty miles, and sat their week-day meeting. In the evening he returned home. Parting with him proved a fresh trial; but being provided with a suitable carriage, and a Friend who had been eastward before, we set forward on sixth-day morning in company with several Friends.

On first-day morning, we went to their meeting at Hailstown, which was largely attended by Friends and others, among whom I had to labour in the discharge of duty; but not feeling quite clear, and the people living too distant to meet again that day, another meeting was appointed at eleven on second-day morning, which was also fully attended, and proved an open, satisfactory opportunity, particularly towards those not professing with us. My mind still felt heavily laden respecting Friends, whom I requested to stop till others had withdrawn; when, through the renewings of best help, I was enabled to leave the burden with them in much plain counsel, as my way opened, and thought I felt quite clear of all ranks; but going home with a friend to dine, as I entered under the roof, my mind became again secretly and painfully exercised; and I found I had something more to do. Being desirous to stand in resignation, I requested the family might be brought together, and endeavoured faithfully to impart such counsel as Truth opened; for which I felt the reward of peace.

Third-day morning.—Soon after breakfast we set off for Pittsfield, about thirty miles, which took ten hours diligent riding; so that it was dark some time before we got to our lodging place, though, through favour, without accident.

We there met very agreeably and unexpectedly with Joshua Evans, a Friend from near Philadelphia, on a religious visit to Friends of these parts, accompanied by T. R., brother to my companion, and they not having seen each other for more than four years, I was thankful our way was ordered for them to meet. Friends being largely collected, with several not of our Society next morning, I thought I evidently felt the travail of their spirits to help mine, and I was enabled to discharge my duty, both in what appeared the greater, and lesser matters, that concern our exemplary walking, consistently with the Truth we profess. We stayed the rest of the evening together, in the course of which, remarks were dropped to one another’s help.

Early on fifth-day morning we took leave, and moved on in our different allotments. We went to Gilmantown, fourteen miles of rough road, where a meeting was appointed at two o’clock in the afternoon, which was largely attended by Friends and others; and through the renewings of best help, the doctrines of the gospel were opened among them, to some degree of satisfaction. On sixth-day morning early, we set off for Sandwich, thirty miles, the road mostly rough, that we only went about three miles an hour; yet, getting safely and peacefully along, we had no cause to complain, but much for thankfulness; having an evidence that our Holy helper sends not forth his servants, in regard to spiritual things, at their own charge; but, as formerly, bids them go without purse, or scrip: and while preserved in a state of dependence upon him alone, they can likewise say they lack nothing.

On fourth-day afternoon, we got well to the widow Folsom’s, twenty miles. She is an ancient Friend, who has been much tried with bodily illness many years, and recently has experienced several close provings, in the loss of husband and children, that she was very low, as also her daughter Abigail; who is an exercised woman, and felt very near to me in spirit.

We had a religious opportunity that evening in her mother’s bed-room. On fifth-day morning, we had a meeting with Friends and others, wherein I felt, for about an hour, as much emptiness, as I thought any one could do; except a desire that the divine will might be done not only in, and through me, but by others then with me, for whom I felt a near and sympathetic travail, insomuch that I apprehended it might be right for me to express something of it; and further communication was then opened to the people. Though it was rather a low exercising time, yet when the meeting was over I was favoured to feel peaceful poverty.

When about to take leave of the ancient Friend, her daughter, etc. my mind was replenished with the quickening of the word of life; and under its humbling operation we parted, and for several miles a profitable solemnity was the covering of our minds.

We got well to Lee, eight miles, about five o’clock, were kindly received at Joseph Carthling’s, and next morning had a meeting there, with Friends and others, which I humbly trust was a season owned by our Heavenly Father, who waits to be gracious. On fifth-day, we had the company of Comfort Collins, an ancient Friend, who in earlier years gave up in resignation to pay a religious visit to Friends in England, but, after embarking, found her mind set at liberty from the concern. [‡]

2nd of eleventh month.—First-day we attended meeting, at which was the largest number of Friends we have met, and it proved the most exercising meeting to labour in; yet, endeavouring to be faithful, I felt pretty quiet, though not much relieved in my own mind. In the evening we went about two miles to lodge, had a quiet opportunity to drop some hints of counsel and caution, which I believe were received in the same love, wherein they were communicated.

On second-day we crossed the river, and attended a meeting at Kitteray seven miles distant, which seemed for a time a low stripping season, yet not void of secret instruction to myself, and through attention to the leadings of it, the meeting closed much more to my relief than that on the day before. We dined with Elizabeth Allen, an ancient widowed Friend, who through indisposition had been confined to the house nearly twelve years; but she was very resigned and cheerful, feeling to me to be alive in the Truth; so that I was glad of the opportunity of sitting with her; my mind being humbled, and strengthened, in a renewed sense of the sufficiency of the Divine power to preserve, through every dispensation of trial, within or without, if we cleave to it. Several steady young Friends coming into her room, our parting was, I trust, felt to be under the humbling prevalence of our Heavenly Father’s love.

We returned to Dover that evening; and next morning went nine miles to Rochester, a large gathering of Friends and others. It was felt to be a season of heavy labour, yet not without near sympathy with Zion’s travellers. That afternoon we went to Berwick, ten miles, and in the morning five miles farther to a large meeting, which, through the renewings of best help, was an open, relieving opportunity; though it seemed hard labour to awaken the minds of several, to dig through the form, and seek after the power, which from meeting to meeting, has felt to me to be too much neglected, by many professing the Truth.

Early on fifth-day morning we set off for Portland, forty miles, which we were favoured to reach about seven in the evening. Next day we sat at meeting with Friends and a few others. Though the number was not great, a humble trust was raised that we were owned together, by the administering of a little bread from that bountiful hand, which waits to be gracious to those who trust in Him.

9th of eleventh month, first-day,—We came to Falmouth yesterday, six miles, and today attended meeting, which was large. In the early part of it, my mind felt much stripped, and according to my measure, dipped into sympathy with the honestly concerned labourers, believing there were several present, towards whom the language of encouragement went forth; but too many appeared of a contrary sort, who were hard to reach, and made the labour heavy; but, endeavouring to move in the ability given, my mind was pretty quiet.

On consulting with Friends about our further movements, several different ways being proposed, which I had not before heard mentioned, I seemed a little confused, so that I could see no way, but was instructed in the fresh remembrance of these expressions of Scripture: “In returning and rest shall you be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength.”

I was thankful and felt favoured with quietude, the way opening again for our going as had been before proposed. In the evening, several Friends being present, with John Winslow and his wife, at whose house we lodged, under the covering of solemnity, the acknowledgement of the royal Psalmist was impressively opened in my view: “Great peace have they that love your law, etc.” which I had to make mention of with some addition; and trust it was a humbling season to most present. Soon after my dear companion and I retired to bed, fully satisfied our stopping there was right.

Second-day morning.—We set forward for Lymington, twenty miles; dined at a Friend’s house, who has lately joined the Society by convincement, had a religious opportunity in the family; and then proceeded on our way, but the road so extremely rough, it was dark before we arrived at Lewistown. We had a meeting on fifth-day, with a few members of our Society scattered in the wilderness, and several others.

Though they appeared a poor company indeed, as to the outward, had a poor place to meet in, and it was a very cold snowy morning; yet divine compassion, owning the opportunity, abundantly made up for all these trials. In the afternoon we went to Green, twelve miles of very difficult road, among rocks, wood and snow; the latter covering some deep sloughs we had to plunge through, rendered it hazardous; but we were favoured to get safe; and though our trials did not end with the journey, were strengthened to bear them pretty cheerfully.

16th of eleventh month, first-day.—We rode two miles to meeting, through the woods, and over a high mountain, but we met with no accident. A few newly convinced Friends belonging to this meeting, and a considerable number not of our Society also attended. I felt much weight to attend my mind, and thought for about an hour, no one there could feel more unfruitful than myself. Then life seemed gently to move, I stood up, and through steady attention to farther openings, and the renewings of best help, it became an instructive opportunity. In the evening, we had a sitting with a few of the Friends, to whom I felt much love and sympathy, and a strong solicitude for their preservation, under the direction of the holy Shepherd.

This was the first log-house in which we slept, and so open that we could see the moon and stars. Soon after sunrise on second-day morning, we resumed our woody travel. The snow being about six inches deep, made the track difficult for some miles; but the road becoming more open, we got fast along and reached Winthrop at ten o’clock, eighteen miles.

A meeting there in the evening, was a time of exercising labour. On third-day we proceeded to Vassalborough, twenty miles. The next day at their monthly meeting, my mind was humbled and renewedly strengthened, under an undoubted evidence, that the Father of the family had not forgotten to be gracious, to his humble depending children. I found it my duty to bear testimony thereunto, and believe it was a time of consolation to some secretly tried minds in that place.

On fifth-day we went to Fairfield, sixteen miles, and were kindly received at Harper Bowerman’s, where we lodged, and were comfortably accommodated; but in the night a great storm of wind arose, with heavy rain, which beat upon us so that we had to rise, and move our bed to another part of the room, but I don’t know that we took any cold. During the storm, my mind was much dipped into sympathy with those on the sea in grateful remembrance of our preservation, when in a like situation. We found on our return, trees both great and small, blown down across the road, yet were favoured to meet with no accident.

23rd of eleventh month, first-day.—Public notice had been given of the meeting, and many not of our Society attended. Through the fresh extendings of best help, the doctrines of the gospel were opened, and I trust well received by many. At the close I requested a meeting in the afternoon, particularly of the young people among Friends, which was fully attended by such, and various others; and under the prevalence of our Heavenly Father’s love, there was I trust a renewed visitation to many tender minds then present.

On second-day morning before sunrise, we left our lodgings, crossed the river, which was very full of ice, in a canoe, and after about ten miles of very rough road through the woods, came to the Ponds, where a few convinced Friends lived. Many not of our Society attended the meeting appointed there, and through the regard of our Heavenly Father, who is pleased to visit his workmanship in the most remote corners, it proved an open time to preach the gospel; for which my soul desired to render the tribute of praise to Him, the God of all grace and consolation, for his manifold mercies to the children of men.

We were favoured to get safe back to R. H.’s, who accompanied us in the evening to pay a visit to a woman Friend, apparently in a declining state of health, with whom we had a religious opportunity; encouraging to a humble confidence in the sufficiency of divine power, to bring about his own blessed design, in the administration of such dispensations as in his unerring wisdom he may see fit.

On sixth-day morning, we left Vassalborough, for Pownalborough, twenty-six miles, part of it a very hilly rough road, yet got well to George Ramsdell’s about five o’clock, the only Friend’s family thereabouts, with whom we had a religious opportunity that evening.

Before sunrise on seventh-day, we set forward for Bread Cove, thirty-eight miles. We had a river to cross, the day also was very cold, and great part of the road in the woods was so exceedingly difficult, that sometimes we could not go more than two miles an hour. This made it more trying to us than any day before; but Moses Sleeper from Vassalborough, who was with us, and well acquainted with every track, encouraged us to hope we should get safely along, which we did, arriving at the Friend’s house before dark, without any material accident.

The ground being hollow in many places, occasioned by the frost, it broke under the hind feet of the horse I was upon, and threw him down; I fell backwards on the ground, and John Robinson, the Friend before me, on the other side; yet, through Divine favour, neither we nor the beast received any hurt.

A meeting was appointed next day at two in the afternoon, which was fully attended by those not of our Society; and after a season of stripping, and poverty of spirit, a little life arose, and though it was a time rather of labouring in, than preaching the gospel, my mind was favoured to feel a peaceful release.

After meeting, a German being very desirous we should call at his house, whose wife also appeared kindly disposed, we took some refreshment with them; and some of their neighbours coming in sat down quietly with us. In the renewings of gospel love, I had a few hints to communicate, by way of encouragement to their minds, who felt to me to be seekers after Truth. We then returned to our lodgings at Isaac Lincoln’s, who came into the Society by convincement, and is the only member of it there. His wife and family were as kind to us as any Friends we had been with. This being the farthest part of our travel eastward, we set forward on sixth-day morning, and got to Arnold’s ferry, thirty-eight miles. On seventh-day as soon as we could see, we crossed it, and went to Bath, five miles, where are a few convinced Friends, but no meeting is kept.

30th of eleventh month, first-day.— The meeting was fully attended by those of other societies, and through the renewings of best help, was in some degree a satisfactory opportunity, but I believe would have been more so, if the slow gathering of the people had not interrupted silent worship.

Third-day.—We visited a Friend who appeared to be drawing near the solemn close of life, likely to leave a wife, and flock of young children; yet his mind seemed preserved in much quietude, and ours were drawn into near sympathy with them: I was glad we went. In the evening Friends came from various parts to attend the quarterly meeting, among whom was David Sands, who about ten years ago spent much time in this eastern country, and was made instrumental in the divine hand, to convince many of the inhabitants of the principle of Truth; and though then under extreme outward difficulties and trial, it appeared rather a time of rejoicing, that Truth gained ground; but, in the course of this journey, his soul has been made sorrowful, which he expressed in much brokenness; finding many have left their first love, and others settled down, more in the form than in the power, of pure undefiled religion. His sense of these things, was somewhat encouraging to me, having secretly mourned from place to place, under the feeling thereof. The number of professors among us is very considerable in these parts: the yearly meeting had given liberty for the quarterly meeting to be divided, and low as things seemed, it appeared to be the pointing of best wisdom; and through renewed condescension, I hope proved a time of close searching to many on their own accounts, as well as through the line of ministry; uniting to strengthen a solemn inquiry into the state of our minds, in a general manner, and whether we are grateful receivers of the manifold mercies of our Heavenly Father. I trust it was a season that will not soon be forgotten.

The several meetings held three days, and from and to our lodgings took eighteen miles riding. On seventh-day morning, we took a tender leave of the family we had lodged with, and in company with many Friends, returned to Falmouth twenty-eight miles.

First-day, 7th of twelfth month.—We went to Portland. When there before, I felt my mind secretly touched with gospel love to the inhabitants, which increased so that I requested a religious opportunity. It was held in the town-hall, and more fully attended than I had expected, supposing many would be strict in going to their own places of worship on that day. Help being near to open counsel, the opportunity appeared satisfactory to Friends, and a humble trust was revived in my own mind, that the cause did not suffer. At the close of this meeting there was much inquiry, if there would not be another in the evening; but I was thankful to feel peacefully released; and having but just time to get to the quarterly meeting at Dover, we proceeded sixteen miles that evening. We were accompanied by Jacob Mott, Joseph Harris, and ______, who were part of a committee, appointed by the yearly meeting, to sit with Friends in these parts, and to feel with them respecting the division of their quarterly meeting.

On second-day, we went to Paul Rogers’s, twenty three miles; and on third-day in our way to Dover, breakfasted with our valued friend Mehetabel Jenkins, who, some years ago, paid a religious visit to Friends in Europe.

On fourth-day we attended the select quarterly meeting for Dover, where I again met our valued friend David Sands, who had the most close searching labour in the line of gospel ministry, I ever witnessed; yet the evidence of Truth left no doubt there was cause for it; and it greatly tended to relieve my mind from a load of secret exercise, that had attended it from place to place. In the quarterly meeting at large, attended by Friends and others, there seemed but little channel for communication, though I felt much exercise of spirit; and a sentiment was revived, that the more select our meetings for worship are kept, previous to those for discipline, the more the way is open, to point out the situation of things among ourselves; and it felt to me to be obstructed at that season.

When separated, my mind was dipped into sympathy with women Friends, and made willing to encourage and instruct them, as far as lay in my power; for though their number was considerable, and there were several well-minded Friends present; yet there seemed little exertion for right order in transacting the affairs of the church. Meeting was adjourned to next day, when David Sands was engaged to come in, and bear a lively testimony to the state of things, so entirely corresponding with my feelings, that I could say in truth, he was indeed a fellow-helper in the Lord. Parting with many Friends in much tenderness, we returned to our lodgings, where several were collected; further religious labour opened, and our minds were preserved under profitable exercise, till we retired to rest.

Seventh-day morning.—We went early to breakfast with a Friend’s family, one mile and a half distant from where we had lodged before; for I apprehended a little debt was left unpaid; and best help being renewed, I believe it will be safe to say, it was a humbling, satisfactory opportunity. Returning to our lodgings, we found David Sands and several others. Under the influence of our Heavenly Father’s love, we had a solemn parting, likely to be a final one to several; but if, as was expressed, we are favoured to keep our habitations in the Truth, so as to meet in an enduring inheritance, all will be well, and the pain of separation be felt no more. Dear ______, having the care of us, we proceeded to Seabrook, twenty-four miles.

14th of twelfth month, first-day.—Attended meeting, a large gathering of Friends and others. My mind being stripped of all former clothing for religious labour, the prospect of sitting among them was humbling. Early did I feel there were dark, opposing spirits in the meeting; but patiently seeking for the renewings of holy help, my mind became raised above all fear, within or without, and I humbly trust counsel was opened, and strength afforded to communicate it to the people in the wisdom of Truth. The meeting was quiet, and ended under a solemn covering.

After an opportunity among a few Friends at our lodgings, wherein encouragement was handed to the faithful labourers, we went to Amesbury seven miles; the next day we had a meeting at Newtown, seven miles, fully attended, but long in gathering; which made the labour more exercising; yet it concluded to some relief and satisfaction. We dined with a Friend who had lately lost her husband, to whom and a few other Friends, religious labour was extended. Parting in tenderness, we returned to Amesbury, seven miles, had a meeting there on third-day, a time of close labour, being dipped into several states, yet relievingly so, and my mind was favoured to feel quiet poverty.

We went eight miles to breakfast on fourth-day morning, to a family, part of whom had deviated much from the principle of Truth: some solemn warnings went forth; also the language of encouragement, to such as had not departed from the faith. We returned two miles to meeting, which was a trying season indeed; but little relief was obtained in either silent or public labour. We got that evening to Salem, twenty-four miles; and next morning a meeting with Friends tended more to relief, than a similar one, in our going eastward. At the close, I felt an impression to have one for those not of our Society in the evening, which was fully attended, and through divine regard, proved an open satisfactory time. On sixth-day we went to Lynn, seven miles.

21st of twelfth month, first-day.—We attended the largest particular meeting we had been at during the journey; a time of close searching labour among some superficial professors, who thought more highly of themselves than they ought to think; but encouragement and consolation flowed freely to the humble depending children, among whom there is a considerable number of hopeful young people.

In the evening we stepped into several Friends’ families, where further religious labour opened; also a tender salutation at our lodgings before we parted. On second-day we called to visit a Friend who was ill, in our way to Boston, twelve miles, where a meeting was appointed in the evening, for the black people, which was fully attended by them and many others. The silence was remarkably solemn; my mind was humbled in thankfulness to the blessed Author of all good, that the bonds of that oppressed people, the enslaved Africans, are in those parts so fully broken: they have now equal liberty with others. Tender counsel and caution were opened, and a grateful sense thereof was expressed at the close, by several of them, who came to take leave of me.

On third-day morning we proceeded to Pembroke, twenty-five miles; next day we attended the week-day meeting, which having sat the usual time in silence, I felt liberty to express my expectation that it would have concluded so; but a few remarks opened of counsel and encouragement, to Friends then present, some of whom, I believed to be sincerely exercised members in the church; with whom I felt near sympathy; the pure life appeared to me much oppressed by others. Rode six miles before, and seventeen after meeting, on our way to Bedford, and lodged at an inn. We rose early, and got to a meeting at Longplain, fifteen miles; afterwards visited a widowed Friend and her children, who were detained at home with sickness; and had a tendering satisfactory opportunity.

On fourth-day we reached Bedford, and found the relatives of my dear companions, generally favoured with health; my own mind being covered with peaceful quiet, claimed renewed thankfulness to the great Preserver, who had mercifully cared for us, both in perils by sea, and in the wilderness. I here met my beloved friend Rebecca Wright from New Jersey, with whom I had travelled nearly three years in England, in her gospel labours. Our now meeting again at so great a distance, was attended with humbling, but I trust not unprofitable feelings.

28th of twelfth month, first-day.—Having had previous apprehensions of visiting the families of Friends belonging to Bedford, I mentioned it at the close of the morning meeting; and it being united with, James Davis, a minister in good unity, was free to accompany me; as was also dear Rebecca Wright. We sat in two families that evening; and by that day week got through the whole, in number nearly fifty. Through the extension of divine regard, my mind felt peacefully relieved; and after returning to our lodging, our valued friend and helper, James Davis, was drawn forth in solemn supplication, and grateful acknowledgement to our Heavenly Father.

6th of first month, 1795.—On third-day morning, James Davis, Rebecca Wright, and myself, with two other Friends, went to attend a quarterly meeting for Rhode Island, held at Somerset, near Swansea. The select meeting began at eleven next morning, which felt to me a low season, as did the succeeding meetings; for though largely attended by numbers, the life of Truth seemed in an oppressed state from various causes; some of which appeared very conspicuous, and were well observed by my valued friend and brother in gospel fellowship, John Wigham, whom we met there, and who had visited many of the families belonging thereto.

This being the quarterly meeting to which our truly valued friend, Job Scott, belonged, the account from Friends in Ireland of the close of his gospel labours, and removal from works to rewards, was read therein. I was secretly ready to marvel, that the revival of his memory seemed so little to affect me, when I recollected what a struggle my very nature suffered, in my own habitation, when I heard of his death; but being at this time dipped into a mournful sense, of what such deeply exercised travellers have to pass through in their pilgrimage here, I was ready to congratulate his peaceful release; having no doubt of his being numbered among those who die in the Lord, and enter into his rest.

On our return to Bedford, I found letters from my endeared friends W. and E. Rotch, who were anxiously expecting us at Nantucket; the season of the year being much farther advanced, than usually admits of navigation; but the mildness of it had remarkably favoured our getting along hitherto. For this, and every other mark of divine regard in things spiritual and temporal, my soul humbly craves to be preserved in a reverent, thankful sense.

11th of first month, first-day. Was favoured to sit two open meetings with Friends, and one appointed in the evening, for those who had frequently attended our religious meetings, yet not joined in membership. Many others of several descriptions came in. The opportunity was owned by divine regard; and strength was renewed to labour among them; after which, my mind was fully at liberty to leave Friends here for the present.

On the 14th, parting with the family of _______ and other Friends, in much nearness, Rebecca Wright, L. R. and myself, sailed for Nantucket, sixty miles, about nine in the morning, and made two-thirds of our passage in little more than four hours; when the wind changed, so that, with frequent tacking, it was midnight before we reached. The night being very dark, it required great care and skill in the captain, to escape the rocks and sands; but our minds were preserved in much quiet, and we had cause to esteem it a favour from kind providence that we got safe; for before morning a heavy storm came on. Our endeared friends W. and E. Rotch had been anxious for our arrival, and were much relieved by it.

Next morning R. Wright being unwell, I went to their week-day meeting without her, and though small, by reason of the continuation of the storm, I was glad I was there; feeling a peaceful evidence that I was in my place, and come in the right time to the island.

On first-day following, about the close of the meeting, I informed Friends of my prospect of a religious visit to their families; but knowing my valued fellow-labourer John Wigham had felt the like impression, I was most easy to wait till I could hear from him; which contrary winds prevented for nearly two weeks, during which time I sat nine meetings, and was in some of them rather more opened in public labour than usual, when such a prospect has been before me; but beginning to feel my prospect very heavy, and my faith ready to fail respecting J. Wigham’s coming, and Rebecca Wright apprehending she was not called to that labour, and that her health was unequal to it, I told her I believed I must be resigned to enter into it alone. I tried to keep quiet, and John Wigham came by the first packet in two days. We began the family visit, accompanied by our friend William Rotch; R. M. right also going with us to a few families, and my valued friend E. Rotch or uniting therein; as it always has been my desire, to have in company a Friend or two belonging to the meeting, that were ensamples to the flock.

In the south meeting were about two hundred and twenty families. We then went to the north meeting, accompanied by Jethro Mitchell, and Sarah Barney, two valuable Friends in the station of elders. In that meeting, were about one hundred and thirteen families. Feeling clear of Friends, my mind was turned to those not of our own Society, and we had a public meeting on first-day afternoon, which was a time of close labour; the minds of the people appearing, in a general way, much strangers to the principle of Truth in themselves; yet through merciful regard I was somewhat relieved by the opportunity. We also attended the select and both monthly meetings, previous to the quarterly meeting, and had a public one appointed at the south meetinghouse, for those in the seafaring line, (of whom there is a great number) and the black people. Through divine regard it proved an open, satisfactory opportunity. My mind now felt fully at liberty to leave the island, but the wind being contrary, we stayed over first-day, which was not unpleasant; for I was glad to feel, the more I was among Friends, the more I loved them.

That evening we had an opportunity of sitting with a widowed Friend and her surviving children, who had that day buried her eldest daughter, a very comely young woman, who, about eleven months before, contrary to her mother’s and friends’ advice, had gone out in marriage with one not of our Society. When so ill that her dissolution appeared near, she requested to see me, if I was free to go. My dear friend E. Rotch accompanying me, we went, and sat by her; an affecting time indeed it was; her near relations were in great distress, and her own was almost insupportable, begging earnestly in a plaintive language, that seemed almost to pierce my soul, for a little longer time, that she might be favoured to feel a hope of reconciliation to the Almighty, and to her friends; saying, she was afraid she had been deceived, in thinking she had a right to choose for herself, in the step she had taken.

I could say very little, but recommended to her and those about her, as much stillness and inward retirement as they could attain, and to seek the Father and fountain of all sure mercies; feeling little or no evidence respecting her life or death, acceptance or rejection by the Lord; yet I expressed a hope, that a little longer time would be given, remembering the compassion of Christ to the thief on the cross. This proved to be the case; during which time, my mind was brought under an unusual travail, both by day and night, on her account.

When I went to see her again, she lay very quiet, though in great bodily pain, and seemed to have a ray of hope; saying, all she could endure while she lived, she desired to bear with patience, if her time might be lengthened until her peace was more fully made. While sitting with her, I was not afraid to believe, or mention, the evidence vouchsafed, that there was mercy for her with the Lord; at which she seemed much tendered.

On seeing her again, she had in the interim undergone much painful conflict; and going in with L. R. a few hours before her close, one of her sisters thought her in a quiet sleep, but on going to her, I found it was the sleep of death, which took place in about three hours. Nothing that could be said would then affect her, but a passage of Scripture rising again with life, which had opened livingly in my view, when sitting by her on a former visit, though not then to make mention of, I believed I was now commissioned to drop it: “Comfort you, comfort you my people,” etc.; for I had a firm belief, “her warfare” was “accomplished,” which was matter of much consolation to her afflicted mother and relatives; yet I had strongly to recommend to the younger part of the family, that the deeply affecting, and instructive lesson, might not be forgotten, but remembered like “the wormwood and the gall” to the humbling of their souls, which I thankfully hope will be the case with some of them at least.

My endeared friend Rebecca Wright, stayed seven weeks with me, under the bonds of near uniting love; and when she was at liberty to return home, at the time of parting, was drawn forth in solemn supplication, for the preservation of those she left behind; particularly for the family we were in, and for us who were sojourners in a strange land.

24th of third month. On third-day, after an affecting parting with some of my dear friends, we left the island, in company with John Wigham and several other Friends, to attend the quarterly meeting at Sandwich, and after a fine passage of four hours and a quarter, landed at Woodshole, forty miles, where our carriage was sent from Bedford. With dear L. R. we went to a meeting appointed at Falmouth, her dear father, attending us, not only taking care of driving the wagon, but being like Urbane, “a fellow helper in the Lord.” Many not of our Society attended, and through the renewing of best help, it was an open satisfactory opportunity. In the afternoon we rode fifteen miles to Sandwich.

On sixth-day, the select quarterly meeting was held to some degree of satisfaction, mostly composed of aged Friends. I was afresh confirmed in what I felt, in the first select meeting I sat with Friends here, that those meetings suffer loss, by Friends not enough looking at the right anointing, and qualification in individuals, to bring such forward, before so far advanced in years, when they might be more lively, and fit for religious usefulness. The weather was remarkably fine on our coming to this place, and the sun shone very bright in the evening, yet before morning a great fall of snow, drifted by the violence of the wind, rendered it almost impracticable to get to the meetinghouse; that only a few met, and adjourned the quarterly meeting till seventh-day, which was then attended with difficulty, and many that lodged at a distance did not get to it; yet the business was got through.

29th of third month. On first-day was a large public meeting, in which several Friends had to labour in the gospel, but not an open, or relieving time to me. We went that evening with Joseph Cloud and John Wigham, a few miles towards Barnstable, where a public meeting was held next day in the courthouse, wherein J. Wigham, whose mind was impressed with the concern, had to preach the gospel.

After dining at an inn we went to a little fishing place, called Bass river, and had a meeting there that evening, in which my valued brethren, Joseph Cloud and John Wigham had an open time in gospel labour. Next morning we went five miles to a meeting at Yarmouth, which was attended by Friends and others, and was a relieving opportunity to my mind; in the afternoon to Scorton ten miles; next day to Paul Wing’s, where we had a religious sitting in the evening. Encouragement was handed to those that love Truth, of which number were several both of the younger and elder rank: their children appear to be hopeful plants.

At Longplain monthly meeting on sixth-day, an acknowledgement was presented from a Friend, who for many years (before the American war) had stood in the station of a minister, but, through unwatchfulness at that time, giving way to a party spirit, got disunited from Friends, and several others with him, who had kept up a separate meeting; but now, in his advanced age, he appeared uneasy with the practice, condemned the cause, and earnestly entreated Friends to receive him into membership, which, from my feelings, I was willing to hope would be complied with. That evening we went to New Bedford, ten miles, to which place the prospect of returning has always looked pleasant, since my first going there; and I believe mutually so to my beloved friends in that place.

5th of fourth month, first-day.—The forenoon meeting was to me a humbling, relieving opportunity: my heart was enlarged and my tongue loosened to preach the gospel, that I could truly acknowledge times and seasons were in the hand of the Lord; remembering several, in which I had sat among Friends there, when the heavens seemed as brass, and the earth as iron. In the evening, we had a meeting at Acushnet, head of Bedford river, which I felt liberty to have appointed at three o’clock, at which time the Presbyterian meeting was gathering, about a stone’s cast from ours. I rather expected we should have a small company; but, as that had appeared the right time, I felt easy. Contrary to apprehension the house was soon filled, and when settled, I felt gospel authority to stand up, and had an open relieving time. My valued friend W. Rotch, his son and wife, and several others in company, returned to Bedford in the evening.

On third-day we went to Newtown, five miles, where was a large meeting of professors, and a few not of our Society. A painful sense of lukewarmness and formality, caused heavy labour indeed; which was not very different next day at Aponaganset, six miles. We went that evening to Acoaxet, ten miles; and on fifth-day morning, had a meeting there, largely attended, and rather an Open time; as was also one in the afternoon at Center. On sixth-day at Little Compton, the meetinghouse was very open and cold, and the people long in gathering; yet I trust it was not an unprofitable meeting. After dinner we went six miles to Seconet, and on seventh-day to Tiverton fourteen miles.

12th of fourth month, first-day. We had two meetings, attended by a solid number not of our religious Society, which were pretty satisfactory. Though the life of Truth, with regard to Friends, appeared to me very low; yet I felt much sympathy with the few concerned to walk consistently therewith.

On second-day a meeting was appointed at Swansea, at three o’clock. We had a pleasant time for crossing the ferry, but soon after a heavy storm came on, and continued without intermission. Friends living distant I hardly expected many would gather, and being oppressed with a sick headache, I almost doubted being able to sit the meeting, yet was most easy to go, and it was largely attended. After painful conflict of body and mind, I was strengthened beyond expectation in the discharge of duty; that I felt a peaceful quiet, and my head much relieved from pain. On third-day morning we had a meeting at Freetown. In the afternoon we went to Mansfield, twenty miles; part of it bad road, and it was nearly dark when we reached our lodging at a dirty inn.

On fourth-day morning, we went to Foxberry, three miles, at which place are a few who appear under convincement. A meeting at eleven, was attended by many more than we expected, and my mind was brought under great weight, it being the first meeting of Friends held there; but, through divine regard, it was in some degree a satisfactory opportunity.

That afternoon we reached Providence. Our valued friend Moses Brown met us on the road, and we lodged at his house. Their meeting on fifth-day, was to me a strengthening time in silent waiting. Towards the close I had just to tell Friends, that I had had a good meeting. In the afternoon, called on some Friends who were indisposed, and in the evening returned to our lodgings, about a mile from the town, where we stayed to give time for appointing a meeting at Smithfield on seventh-day, where M. Brown and his wife accompanied us, also to Woonsoaket.

19th of fourth month, first-day.—A large open meeting at Woonsoaket with Friends and others. In the afternoon went to Elisha Thornton’s, to see the children of our late valued friend Job Scott, with whom we had a tendering opportunity. On second-day we had a meeting at Mendham, a time of close labour; went that evening to Northbridge, and had a pretty open meeting there next day; from there to Leicester, called twenty-one miles, which appeared very long, from the roughness of the road. We had a meeting there on fourth-day; in which the necessity of looking beyond man for help, in our religious progress, was deeply impressed on my mind; which it seemed right to communicate. In the afternoon we called on several Friends who, living distant, do not often see Friends but at meeting.

On fifth-day morning we set off for Orange, thirty-five miles, but the roads were so rough and hilly we stopped a little short at an inn, where we were agreeably accommodated; our guide going forward to get a meeting appointed on sixth-day morning. Many people attended; but it being a newly settled meeting, and containing only three members of our Society, my mind feeling very low and stripped, was brought under much inward exercise, lest the cause should suffer; but, through merciful regard, I hope it did not; and I had to believe, the visitation of Truth was offered to many present. In the afternoon we had a continuation of very rough hilly road to Richmond.

26th of fourth month, first-day. A rainy morning, and considering the distant situations of Friends, the meeting was pretty fully attended. It was a season of close heavy labour, yet encouraging to those who desire to keep their habitations in the Truth. My own feelings are frequently so discouraging, that I can scarcely hope any good has been done; but leaving this to Him, whose ways are all wisdom, and his counsel a great deep, I find it safest to endeavour to be honest; and I trust am made thankful when favoured to feel a peaceful release thereby. This was the case at this place; also in collecting several young people that were about the house we lodged at, in the evening, who I thought stood in great need of help; and I felt stirred up to cast in my mite, in this resignation I had the reward of peace.

This was the last meeting northward, excepting one ninety miles distant, which I then felt liberty to leave; and on second-day morning, was made glad we could turn our faces southward. The roads still very rocky and difficult, but I was favoured to feel a quietude, that overbalanced outward trials; under which I was led to visit in spirit, my dear friends and near connections in my native land; with renewed desires, that the blessing of preservation may be so witnessed, that, if spared to meet again, we may be enabled to rejoice in the Lord, and joy in the God of our salvation.

This was a very wet day, and the rain beat directly into our carriage, that, after riding twenty-eight miles, we stopped at an inn to lodge. Next day we rode to Bolton, where, on fourth-day, we had a pretty satisfactory meeting.

In the afternoon we went to Grafton, nineteen miles, and called in the way to see a Friend that was poorly; next day to Uxbridge; stayed the monthly meeting on sixth-day, largely attended by Friends and others, a time of close searching labour among those of our own Society, and strength was given to open the doctrines of the gospel to those not professing with us. On seventh-day we had a meeting at Douglas.

3rd of fifth month, first-day.—At Gloucester I was led nearly to sympathize with Zion’s travellers, and remind the lukewarm of their dangerous state. After meeting we went with a Friend a few miles to dine, had a religious opportunity with several Friends collected there, and in the evening rode to Smithfield, where on second-day morning we had a large open meeting, many not professing with us attending.

On third-day a meeting at Foston was in like manner favoured. Here our valued friend Moses Brown met us. On fourth-day we had a meeting at Scituate, a quiet solid opportunity. Before the close, I had a few remarks to make in public testimony. That evening we went to Cranston. At meeting there next day, my mind was dipped into sympathy with some exercised travellers; and I likewise endeavoured to awaken the lukewarm and inconsiderate.

Here Moses Brown’s wife and son also met us, with whom we returned that evening, and were glad to rest on sixth-day; the weather being hot and sultry, I felt relaxed and faint. On seventh-day, a gentle breeze made it more pleasant: we went a few miles to see the near relatives of our much beloved friend Job Scott, who was mostly the subject of our conversation; and in reading some of his remarks, solemnity was the attendant of our minds; that it was a satisfactory visit.

10th of fifth month, first-day.—Sat three meetings at Providence, and may in humble gratitude acknowledge, the evening crowned the day, though not so fully attended by people of other societies as was expected.

Second-day morning. Very heavy rain, yet it seemed best to proceed on our way, as a meeting was appointed at three that afternoon at Greenwich. The meeting was largely attended both by Friends and others; my mind soon became secretly exercised, and the more I bowed under it, the more I found the way closed up from public labour. After sitting about an hour and a half, I felt liberty to say I was free to sit a meeting in the courthouse at Greenwich, if spared till ten next morning, when their company would be acceptable; but should take it kind if they would then withdraw, and leave the members of our Society. To these, after a short pause, I was helped to relieve my own mind. The public meeting next morning was large and satisfactory.

After dinner we proceeded to Wickford, nine miles, where a meeting appointed at the third hour, was largely attended; and great willingness manifested in the people, as in all other places, to hear the gospel preached; but too few are willing to become the disciples of our blessed Lord, by taking up their cross in the denial of self.

We had a long ride that evening to South Kingston, very foggy, and quite dark before we reached the Friend’s house. The road was so bad, that when we went over a part of it again next morning, it was marvellous in my eyes that the carriage had not been overturned; which raised in us grateful acknowledgements.

We attended the Back meeting, which, though small, was in some degree satisfactory. That afternoon went a few miles through the woods to see a Friend very ill in a decline, though as to years in the bloom of life. She was married and had one child: we had a tendering opportunity with her. On sixth-day, at Hopkinton, we had a large meeting, in which my way was opened to deal plainly and honestly with the professors of Truth, among their neighbours; feeling my mind strengthened in hope, there were a few preserved, walking consistently with our high and holy profession.

We stayed that evening at a Friend’s house, who had been a physician of considerable account, and of a lively disposition; but for sometime had lost the noble faculty of reason, and was reduced to the capacity of a child; his words and actions very innocent. It was more humbling than painful to be with him, proving how little as men and creatures, we can either procure or prevent.

17th of fifth month, first-day.—We had a very large meeting at South Kingston, of most descriptions of people, among whom I humbly trust the gospel was preached, and the nature and spirituality of the pure principle [the immediate manifestation of the Holy Spirit to the mind of man] set forth, as professed by us, in a manner distinguished from those of other religious societies; how it would guard and influence such as walked consistently with it: and what those were, who only made a profession of it. My mind was humbled under a thankful sense of our Heavenly Father’s regard, towards the mixed multitude. It was near two o’clock when this meeting ended, and we had another appointed to begin at five that evening, nine miles distant, three of them by water. We had some detention at the ferry, and could not get our carriage over then; but we went forward on horseback, and reached the meeting in due season at Canonicut, and found the time more suitable than next morning would have been, as Friends were invited to attend a burial at a distance. It is not customary to have a meeting on such occasions, except at the house of the deceased. I felt a liberty to attend this sitting, which was a quiet opportunity; nothing was handed about to the company. This I could not help wishing might become generally the case in our country.

We did not go to the burying ground, but called on a sick Friend; and in the evening crossed a ferry to Newport on Rhode Island, accompanied by John Hadwen, his son and daughter, at whose house we lodged. We had rather a tossing passage, but were favoured to land safe.

On third-day evening we went to Portsmouth. Their meeting on fourth-day, was a time of close searching labour, yet attended with encouragement to the sincere-hearted. We returned to Newport in the evening, calling on our way to visit a Friend confined, with whom we had a satisfactory opportunity; her mind appearing in a quiet, resigned state.

24th of fifth month, first-day. We sat both meetings at Newport. I was engaged in further labour, yet not fully relieved; but having a prospect of being there again, I was entirely at liberty to leave on second-day morning, and returned to Bedford with our kind attendant W. R. Jr. who had been with us six weeks. Going again to his house, was in some degree like returning home, where we met with a most affectionate reception even from the little children, who feel very near to me; and these circumstances make a little respite from travelling, I trust in the liberty of Truth, a quiet enjoyment.

31st of fifth month, first-day. At Bedford. During my stay here we visited several Friends to my satisfaction, being favoured to feel the renewings of best love flow towards them, particularly to my ancient and honoured friend Mary Rodman, who was in a declining state of health, and at times much tried in mind, when the beloved of her soul saw fit to withdraw the sensible feeling of his life giving presence; yet there is no cause to doubt His arm being underneath, to support, and take into his own keeping, till the time of bodily conflict is over.

My valued friend William Rotch, being under appointment with another Friend, Jeremiah Austin, an elder, to attend the monthly meeting at Pembroke, I was free to accompany them, also to another at Longplain. On our return we met with dear Samuel Smith from Philadelphia, in whose company I had been both in England and Ireland; that it was cause of rejoicing to meet him again, and to feel unity and near fellowship with his spirit and gospel labours.

We came to Bedford, and stayed first-day, 7th of sixth month. On second-day, I went with him to Aponaganset, which more clearly opened my way to leave Friends, than on my former visit. On third-day morning, I left Bedford, and accompanied by William Rotch and his wife, went to attend the yearly meeting for New England, held on Rhode Island. At a tavern on the way, we had the satisfaction of meeting my endeared fellow-labourers from England, Deborah Darby and Rebecca Young, which I believe was felt to be a solemnly affecting season to us, and others present. Silence ensued for a considerable time; and much contrition spread among us; that I have scarcely known the like. What most deeply impressed my own feelings, was the renewed humbling sense, that we poor females were found worthy of being commissioned with such embassies to a distant land, and to become fellow sufferers in the bonds of the gospel. In our united labours through the various sittings of the yearly meeting, the strength of Israel being our hope, we were rendered a comfort to one another, and made at seasons a little joyful in the house of prayer, in near and dear fellowship with the living members of the church, in every rank of the family.

14th of sixth month, first-day evening. We sat a meeting appointed for the black people, which was largely attended by them and proved satisfactory.

On third-day evening, we again parted under the renewed, humbling influence of our Heavenly Father’s love, proceeding in our different allotments of labour in the vineyard. My valued friend John Wigham and others, eastward in New England; my dear companion and self, parting with her near relations at Portsmouth, proceeded through Connecticut towards New York, where of late time there is great openness in the people towards Friends, especially about Hartford; in the neighbourhood of which we had, on the 21st of sixth month, first-day morning, a satisfactory meeting among some who had requested to be joined in membership with our religious Society; and in the evening a public one held in the courthouse, which also tended to some relief, and was the closing religious opportunity in New England, before proceeding to the southern states. Much solicitude was expressed by the people that we should stay and have more meetings, but I was pressed in spirit to journey forward. Sitting the week-day meeting at Mamaroneck in our way, we arrived safe at New York, on seventh-day evening, and were kindly received by John Murray, brother to my valued friend Lindley Murray, who has resided some years near York, in England.

28th of sixth month, 1795. First-day. At both meetings; we also attended the select monthly meeting, and that for discipline. We went to see several Friends; but the time did not appear to be come for much communication in the line of gospel labour; and I felt entire resignation thus to pass through their borders, expecting if life and health permit, to return there again. We left this city for Philadelphia.

On our way we went to Nathan Wright’s, whose valuable wife I had travelled with in England as before mentioned. We reached safely next evening about five. Our valued friends Samuel Emlen and Rebecca Jones, were much our acceptable companions, both in meetings, and at many Friends’ houses; but my way, as at New York, was rather closed from much gospel communication, except in one or two meetings. We visited Hannah Pemberton, widow of our late justly endeared friend John Pemberton, whose meek exemplary life closed at Parrmont, in Germany, where his lot had been cast in gospel mission.

After stopping eight days in the city, we proceeded on second-day morning, 13th of seventh month, and got that evening to George Valentine’s, son of Robert Valentine, who was a noble warrior in the cause of Truth, and left many seals of his ministry in his travels in Europe. On third-day we had a meeting at Downingstown, held in a malt house, there being no settled meeting in that place. It was largely attended by Friends and others; and a humble trust was raised, that the Father of mercies owned us, by the breaking of bread.

Several Friends who had come with us from the city, returned from this place, P. B. son-in-law to Elizabeth Drinker, on hearing we were likely to lack an attendant, felt his mind impressed with a desire to accompany us, which his friends and connections uniting in, he continued with us. We took the meetings at Sadsbury, Lampeter, Lancaster, and Wright’s Ferry, in all which we were favoured with a renewal of strength in the discharge of duty. We crossed the river Susquehanna, to Yorktown.

19th of seventh month, first-day. The morning meeting was a time of close searching labour, among those of our own Society. The evening meeting was fully attended, an open satisfactory opportunity. This week attended the meetings at Newberry, Warrington, Huntingdon, and Monallin: the weather so extremely warm, my frame felt at times exceedingly debilitated; yet, through divine regard, strength was renewed in the needful time, so as to feel a peaceful release, though through close searching labour.

26th of seventh month, first-day. We attended meeting at Pipe-creek, in Virginia, which was a time of close labour to the different states of the people. Through divine assistance, a peaceful acquittance was gained thereby, and my spirit was united to a small number who are exercised for the welfare of Zion. A meeting that evening at Bush creek, a large mixed gathering, proved a time of heavy labour, many appearing hard to reach; but towards the close a little ground seemed gained.

Next day crossed the rivers Monoquasy and Potomac; we found the roads very bad, that it was dark before we reached Fairfax, but preservation was still continued. We sat an appointed meeting next morning, in which a humble trust was renewed, that in the power of gospel authority, the state of things was spoken to; and my soul bowed in supplication before the Lord, that he might bless the labour.

2nd of eighth month, first-day. Friends of Goose creek were desired to meet at ten, to give us time to attend another in the evening, ten miles distant, which they readily complied with. When we got there the house was so full, and many out of doors, that it was somewhat difficult to get in. A sense of the compassion of the Shepherd of Israel, was soon feelingly raised in my soul, and gospel power renewed, to the information and humbling, I believe, of many minds—with bodily strength to go through the exercise; having to stand about an hour and a half, with the heat very great. To the Lord alone belongs the praise of his own works! We called and got some refreshment at a Friend’s on our way to Southfork.

Though we had heavy rain, and the roads were bad and full of water, we got in time for meeting; in which the labour was more exercising, and less relieving than the former; but as resignation of will in the servants on all occasions, ought to take place, I felt no disposition to murmur, or to think either outward or inward labour hard, if but preserved in the line of divine appointment.

Between the meeting and the Friend’s house where we lodged, is a creek, which soon becomes impassable with heavy rain. This being the case next morning, it was nearly eleven o’clock before we could get through, and then we were conveyed in the Friend’s wagon, apprehending the water would run into ours. A meeting was appointed at Berkley, to begin at ten next morning. We had upwards of twenty miles of very stony road, over the mountains called Blue Ridge, and a dangerous river to cross, called the Shenandoah. The rain still continuing, the prospect for a time was discouraging, but being favoured with inward quiet, it soon brightened a little; yet I don’t know that more secret thoughtfulness ever took hold on my mind, respecting our situation, during our crossing the great deep, than while in the boat.

The stream of this water was so rapid, owing to the flood, that we had to steer up it a considerable way; and great was the diligence and care of three black men who attended the boat, to escape the trees that were standing in the water, and others floating in it; yet, with all their vigilance, we struck against one, which broke the oar, and made some of our horses ready to start overboard; but at this critical juncture, one of these careful mariners jumped on the side of the boat, and clasped his arms round the tree, with his feet keeping us from striking again, so as to do any material hurt: we then got in a right course for land.

The exertion of these men who are slaves to their employer, did not go unrewarded. This opportunity, with many others, of observing their usefulness, and what they might be to the community at large, if in the way of receiving instruction, religious as well as civil, has affected my feelings with sorrow and mourning, that any should thus be continued in bonds by their oppressors; yet with many others concerned, a hope is renewed, that the oppressed will in the Lord’s time be set free. On their account my soul travails, that neither they nor any of their race, may be bond slaves to sin; for as I have sometimes had to tell them, this would be the sorest of all evils, as the torture of the body can only kill that; but sin leads the soul into endless misery, where the worm dies not, and the fire is not quenched.

We got in seasonable time to a Friend’s house, and were kindly received: attended meeting next day, composed of Friends and others, situate in the midst of woods; a few black people were also among them. In the course of gospel communication, I had to make some remarks concerning them and the unjustness of the traffic; yet felt a care while speaking, that the zeal kindled in me might not be misguided, and so lose the desired effect; and having a humble trust that preservation was witnessed, in quiet recollection as we rode along, I thought I should not have cared, how many slaveholders had been present. I found afterwards from information, there were several, among whom was George Washington, nephew to the president, who made himself known to a Friend in company, acknowledged the truth of what was remarked, and gave us a kind invitation to his house.

Chapter VI

- Continuation of her Travels in America, in the remainder of 1795.

9th of eighth month, first-day.—We attended a very large meeting at Berkley. I had for some days been much indisposed, and rested on sixth and seventh, at a kind Friend’s near the meetinghouse. My natural strength was greatly reduced, through the oppressive heat of the weather; my head and throat were much affected, attended with strong symptoms of fever; swallowing even liquids was trying, and I could scarcely bear to sit up; but my mind was mercifully favoured with such entire resignation as I had not often felt.

I remembered the same Wisdom that had seen fit to remove other servants, when in a land distant from their connections, could also give resignation to those most nearly allied to me, if I should be removed. So clear and strong, for some hours was this secret impression, that I was more than once very near acquainting my tenderly beloved companion with what I felt, and how I should like to have the order of my burial; but believe it was best I did not, as it might have overwhelmed her with sorrow, being daily sensible of her near regard and affection to me.

I was instructed that this state of my mind was permitted, in order to fit me for further provings; that my day’s work was not finished; yet had I been at home under such a weight of illness, I should not have thought it unlawful to have kept quiet in my chamber; but I went to meeting, and about an hour and a half was a time of unspeakable exercise, in silent wading, among a large mixed gathering; the minds of the people being much afloat, and the quietness becoming a religious opportunity interrupted, which is too often the case in many places. When it appeared near the time of breaking up the meeting, a gentle motion of life impressed me to say, that if no servant or handmaid had received more commission to speak than myself, I believed it right nothing had been said; not knowing that I should have any addition to make, or indeed that I could be heard, for my throat was much swelled, and very painful; but, to my humbling admiration, I was led forward, though in a line of labour in which no flesh could glory; but as resignation, and dedication of will took place, I felt healing virtue both of body and mind. Finding myself not quite clear of the members of our Society, I requested others to withdraw, and got peacefully relieved.

On third-day morning we were at Bear Garden, the last meeting on that side the Alleganies. In the afternoon we went fourteen miles towards them, had considerable difficulty in crossing Capon-creek, from great rains; the water ran into our carriage, but we were preserved from any material damage, and got before night to the tavern where we lodged, a poor dirty place, but the people appeared kindly disposed. I was taken very ill in the night, and got little rest; great was the conflict of flesh and spirit. My faith was tried as to a hair’s breadth; and deep were the searchings of heart, whether I was right in going to encompass the rugged mountains sixty miles over, and we then thirty from the foot of them—because other servants had been sent; or whether it was really required of me, in the discharge of my own duty towards God and man.

I believe it would be difficult for any, but exercised travellers in the line of experience, to read my state at that time. How gratefully could I have embraced a peaceful release; but had then to remember, my resigned state of mind a few days before; and why not as willing to accept my life for a prey, in filling up the measure of suffering yet behind? This secret inquiry and tender monition, so instructed, and brought into passiveness, that as soon as able to rise, we journeyed forward; and with some difficulty I bore to ride twelve miles; when, stopping at a tavern, I went directly to bed; but getting a little quiet rest that night, was somewhat refreshed; and after another day’s very rough travel, we got to the foot of the Alleganies, beyond which is a settlement of Friends. The difficulty of travelling in a carriage was beyond description; yet without it I believe I could not have performed the journey.

We hoped to have reached the first meeting of Friends by the seventh-day evening; but illness preventing, we were twenty six miles from it, and had to lodge at a miserably dirty tavern; yet the poor people were kind in their way. We rested very little, and great was the sympathy I felt for the inhabitants of such uncultivated places. The man and his wife acknowledged, that, though young people, they were old and almost worn out in constitution, by their toil for a livelihood; which appeared to be the case with many.

16th of eighth month, first day.—We rose very early and journeyed on—my strength a little recruited. We got one of our young men to hasten forward, so as to reach the first meeting of Friends before they separated, and request them to appoint one at four that afternoon.

We reached in due time the meeting called Sandy Hill, three miles from Union Town, and beyond all expectation, a renewal of strength was mercifully vouchsafed to labour, I humbly trust in the ability God gives; that according to my measure I could acknowledge, that when the Son of Righteousness is graciously pleased to arise, healing virtue is witnessed, both inwardly and outwardly.

We went about three miles on our way after meeting, toward the next; and being favoured to lie down in peace, and rest well, I was much refreshed; and my mind was humbled in a thankful sense thereof We proceeded to the meetings on that side the mountains, as follows: Center, Providence, Sewickly, Fallowfield, Redstone, and Westland.

23rd of eighth month, first-day. — In the morning at Pike Run; in the evening we had another meeting appointed at Westland for Friends and others. At the monthly meetings at Redstone and Westland, which were largely attended, and many seemed innocently disposed, to transact the affairs of the church to the best of their understandings; and my mind felt impressed to encourage them, also to guard against receiving superficial requests to join our religious Society; but to endeavour to feel whether real convincement was the ground work, that the church might not be enlarged with useless members.

On second-day morning, we turned our faces towards the mountains; and being informed of some friendly people on the way, I felt liberty in the Truth, to sit a meeting at nine on third-day morning, held in a barn. The number was not large; but I was favoured to feel there were some sincere seekers after Truth, towards whom encouragement went forth, that they might not rest satisfied until they had found, in and for themselves, Christ the true Teacher, and Bishop of souls. Exhortation and counsel were also extended to those less attentive to the inward principle or spirit of Christianity. The people in general seemed well satisfied with the meeting, and appeared to part with us in love: many of them are called Menonists, or Dunkers. Some of the elders wear their beards, as they say, according to ancient custom, but do not enjoin it as a part of their religion.

We next went to Sandy creek, the last meeting of Friends in these parts, which was attended by many not of our Society; and on early sitting down, what the Prophet had to express in the opening of vision, when he saw Israel scattered on the mountains, as sheep having no shepherd, was livingly opened in my view; attended with a motion of life to revive it, and put Friends in a particular manner, upon an examination how far it might be applicable to them: for in the outward it was indeed so, and whether their inward state was not similar. The Most High was supplicated, that He might be graciously pleased to preserve those, who, not daring to lean to their own understanding, put their trust in Him alone.

After dinner we took leave one of another, and our little company proceeded, lodging that night at a disagreeable tavern, where we got little sleep; which proved trying to the bodily frame. This is often the case, and may be esteemed in its measure, a part of the sufferings we have to partake of; yet I felt a regard for the landlady, who was kind to us. We arose early and journeyed forward. From the prevalence of fogs, it seemed for some miles like riding in a cloud. On seventh-day night we reached a Friend’s house at Back creek, which felt comfortable both to body and mind. Here we had an open meeting with Friends and others.

30th of eighth month, first-day.—We went to Hopewell, which we had left just three weeks; and our being favoured to witness the blessing of preservation, called for renewed humble thankfulness to our Heavenly Father, who has a right to dispose of us, as He sees fit. After stopping two days for some repairs, etc. we proceeded southward, taking meetings at Center, Mount Pleasant, Crooked run, and Smith’s creek.

6th of ninth month, first-day.—We were at the meeting at Smith’s creek, attended by many not professing with us, in which exercising labour was my portion; but sincere are my desires to be preserved from murmuring, and that I may rather rejoice, that I am in any degree found worthy to suffer for the cause sake, or with the seed in suffering. After meeting, we went on to New-Market, a small town. When riding into it, about three in the afternoon, many people standing about, the motion of life arose in me to “Gather the people:” and not having much time or desire to reason upon it, being brought in measure to experience, its becoming my meat and drink to do the will of my Heavenly Father, though we had rode about eighteen miles and sat a meeting, I could partake of no refreshment till I had inquired if there was a place in which we could hold a meeting. A person offered his store, etc. which we accepted. After dinner, our kind attendant assisted in procuring planks; the rooms were seated with such expedition, that the people had notice and were chiefly gathered by half past four: and a humble trust was renewed that the opportunity was owned; and I was favoured with the reward of peace.

Next day had a meeting at Linwell’s creek, held in a barn, which was a time of heavy labour to me; and I gained not much relief; yet I believe some minds there have been visited for good; and strong was my solicitude, they might not rest in that which is polluted. Next morning we proceeded towards South river, the roads very rough and hilly, accommodations at taverns indifferent, particularly in lack of cleanliness.

We had upwards of three days’ journey before we got among Friends. The last night was a very trying one, at the house of a slaveholder, there being no other to lodge at on the road, otherwise it was wounding to nature and spirit to be with such.

We arose early in the morning, and got to South river about nine o’clock, which we crossed, to a small town called Lynchburgh, where are several Friends; and finding it was their meeting day, we took breakfast and hasted to it, though five miles of rough, hilly road; and were there as early as some of the members. It was close work, but we did not regret it, being well satisfied in sitting with Friends, though a low exercising time, in silent travail.

13th of ninth month, first-day.—I had informed Friends at Lynchburgh, that I wished to have the company of their neighbours, both black and white; and though the morning proved very rainy, yet there was a large gathering of people; and though I thought myself clear of Friends, great heaviness and exercise was again revived concerning them, but when relieved from it, through further discharge of duty, my way was opened towards others; and after meeting many of the black people, who appeared much reached, came to us, and expressed their gratitude. To this class, my companion and self in the course of our travels, felt great love and sympathy. A meeting was appointed in the town at four in the afternoon, and held in a large room called Free Mason’s Hall; which was filled, and many stood without; and though several appeared strangers to the doctrines of the gospel, through the channel of free ministry, they were quietly attentive, seemed well satisfied, and my own mind was relieved; so that we left the town next morning in peace.

We had a meeting on fourth-day appointed at Upper Goose creek, and another in the evening at Lower Goose creek, ten miles distant; which was largely attended, and an open satisfactory time; concluding in supplication to the Father and Fountain of all good, that the blessing of preservation might be continued to those, who are sincerely desirous to walk acceptably before him. From there we went to Seneca and Hill’s creek, both small as to Friends; but many seeking people attending; the regard of our Heavenly Father was manifested, who is no respecter of persons, and gospel truths were largely opened: the tribute of praise and thanksgiving ascending to his holy name, who is forever worthy.

On seventh-day had a long trying journey to Bannister, in crossing rivers, etc. and had to beat about the woods till near ten o’clock, before we could get a lodging place.

20th of ninth month, first-day.— We sat their meeting, which was small of Friends, but largely attended by others, who mostly appeared so very raw and ignorant of the principles of religion, that it was hard to fasten the testimony of Truth on such minds. The iniquitous practice of trafficking in our fellow creatures, and keeping them in bonds, was closely spread before them, which I expect was not very grateful, as few are clear in that part of the country; but in the discharge of duty I was favoured with relieving peace; feeling much sympathy with the few, who are desirous to walk consistently with the profession we make.

We went forward that evening towards North Carolina, and on second-day evening got to the first settlement of Friends there. On third-day morning we attended a meeting at Eno, where, finding some kindred spirits, and fellow-labourers in religious exercise, my spirit was comforted in the love of Truth; and in silent waiting, I thought I could adopt the language of the spouse in the mystical song: “My beloved is mine, and I am his.” This time of renewed favour to my own mind, was esteemed as a mark of Divine regard, in order to sustain under future exercises, of which I had deeply to partake, in attending the succeeding meetings in North Carolina.

These were Spring meeting, Cane creek, Rocky river, Tyson’s, Dixon’s, Holly Spring, Euwary, Back creek, Hoover’s, Springfield, Piney Woods, Deep river, Marlborough, Providence, Sandy creek. Center, Sherborne, Newgarden, Hopewell, Dover, Muddy creek, and Blue creek. In all which I was led in a line of close searching labour, that my work seemed indeed in the furnace. I had also nearly to feel for, and sympathize with, the mourners in Zion; and was favoured to feel peaceful quiet in the faithful discharge of duty, which supported in a good degree of resignation, under the trials permitted.

We crossed the Blue Ridge a second time, to visit meetings in Old Virginia, from which we were favoured to return in safety, to attend the yearly meeting at New Garden, having felt a release from proceeding further westward, to a small settlement of Friends, two hundred miles distant, which I thankfully accepted.

The yearly meeting was largely attended, and held by adjournment seven days, wherein several strangers from distant parts, were engaged to labour for the promotion of good order among Friends. After it was over, we stayed two other meetings. In the last my mind was instructively led in silent waiting, to review the line of labour in which I had been exercised, wherein I witnessed the gracious acceptance of Christ, to a female servant in his day: “Let her alone,”— “she has done what she could,” attended with an encouraging belief, that the renewings of Divine regard were towards his flock and family to do them good, which I had to make some mention of, in much brokenness of spirit.

8th of eleventh month, first-day.—We were at Hunting creek, where I had to labour among a mixed gathering, some of whom appeared very raw; others I hope were sincere seekers after truth. Near the close I requested to have a select opportunity with Friends, in which I reminded them of the many deviations that appeared in many places, some of which had caused great reproach; and the earnest solicitude I felt on their account, as members of a new settled meeting, was that they might watch and guard against everything that has a tendency to undue liberties; in a particular manner on account of the rising youth. I then felt a peaceful release; and after a tendering opportunity in the family where we lodged, we proceeded on our way to the next settlement of Friends.

We had upwards of one hundred and fifty miles of wilderness travel, during which we had several times to seek lodgings, and entertainment from house to house, on the road; and with difficulty obtained it, after riding in the dark; and when obliged to stop at the houses of slave holders, our minds were deeply affected on their account, and that of the oppressed people under them. Where openness appeared, we dropped some remarks respecting the injustice of the traffic, in buying and selling their fellow creatures. We had also several large rivers, and deep creeks to ford, several bridges being washed away by the sudden rise and rapidity of the waters; but through providential care, we sustained no material hurt, and got to Cane creek, in South Carolina, on seventh-day.

15th of eleventh month, first-day.— We attended meeting there; early my mind was renewedly humbled, under a sense of the continuation of our Heavenly Father’s love to the true seekers, who are waiting for his law: on which subject gospel labour opened, and though as too often is the case, the solemnity of the meeting was much hurt by the late coming in of several, there seemed cause to hope it was a profitable season; closing in grateful acknowledgement to the blessed Author of all good, whose compassions fail not, towards the children of men.

22nd of eleventh month, first-day.—At Raybourn’s creek: and I trust through the pouring forth of the Spirit it was a memorable day. In the afternoon we had a religious opportunity among a few Friends, and a tendering one next morning in the family where we lodged. We then set forward to Georgia, two close days’ journey, and attended three meetings there.

29th of eleventh month, first-day.—At Allwood, the nature and spirituality of the principle of Truth was opened to a mixed gathering. From there we returned to Bush river, and stopped two days on account of writing. On fourth-day proceeded to Charlestown, taking a small meeting in the way, at Edisto.

First-day, 6th of twelfth month.—This was another long and trying travel, from which I would gladly have escaped, if a peaceful release had been granted. As we drew near the city, suffering of spirit became more heavily the secret attendant of my mind; but I was favoured with a degree of hope, that I could bear testimony with an apostle of Christ: “Tribulation works patience;” and though I could not apprehend, that we found one among those professing to be of our religious Society, who acted consistently therewith, I had to believe there was a seed groaning under oppression; and that the regard of the compassionate Father was towards it as formerly. We stayed there a week, and through the faithful discharge of duty in public and private, I was favoured with the reward of peace.

13th of twelfth month, first-day.—The last meeting we sat there was on this evening, requested for the black people, and such of their employers and others as chose to attend, in the City Hall, a very large commodious room for the purpose, which was nearly filled. The instruction given to the apostle Peter: “What God has cleansed, call not you common,” etc. impressing my feelings with gospel authority, I stood up, and humbly trust, spoke as the Spirit gave utterance. A becoming attention appeared given to the illustration; yet I seemed as if standing among scorpions, and when the subject turned in a few sympathetic expressions towards the peculiar objects of that meeting, tending to draw their attention to what might further open in the line of instruction to them, a person stood up, who appeared of high rank, and said: “Madam! I am sorry to interrupt you; but as my office is the care of the police of this city, I must desire you to stop; for what you say is against it, and will not do.”

I was favoured meekly, but with firmness to reply: “If you will please to have patience, until I have discharged my duty, I believe you will neither have cause to be hurt, or to be sorry that you have done so.” He then remained silent; and the meeting ended in solemn supplication to that Almighty Being, who is no respecter of persons.

Before we left the room, this person, who we found was the mayor, requested a Friend to apologize for the interruption, acknowledging it was not anything I had said, but the apprehension of what I might say, that made him afraid; but hoped I should not take it as an affront. I desired the Friend to inform him, I had taken no offence, having nothing in view but the welfare of mankind; yet I was afresh sensible of the little openness in these southern states, to plead the cause of the oppressed: and therefore but little room for the spirit of Christianity to spread. We then set forward, having one hundred and sixty miles to travel, and five ferries to cross to the next settlement of Friends.

20th of twelfth month, first-day. — We reached a meeting in North Carolina, which was attended by a number not professing with us; and though a time of heavy exercise to myself, and not so relieving as some others, yet a little hope was afforded, that the labour was not wholly in vain. In the evening, requesting the family where we lodged to sit down, with several others present, I was closely led to open counsel, that Friends might be more in the practice of gathering their children into quietude, which appeared greatly neglected; and for lack of such care, their minds remain barren and uncultivated, and many seem more raw and ignorant than those who make no profession with us.

Several not of our Society, came twenty miles to attend the next meeting, which through Divine regard, was an open instructive opportunity. A grave elderly man with his wife, (the former had been at meeting on first-day,) came to our lodgings and said, the doctrines of the gospel had, in both those opportunities, been fully and clearly opened to him, as he had never heard or remembered before; for which he had cause to bless the Almighty. His wife also hoped what she had heard that day, would never be forgotten by her. They were by profession baptists. We parted in tenderness of spirit, and my mind was made humbly thankful, in hope the cause of Truth had not been hurt.

After dinner, we rode twenty-five miles towards the next settlement of Friends, much by moonlight, of which we mostly take advantage, both morning and evening. The third night of this travel we could get no lodging but in our wagon, which we had before found more comfortable, than some beds we had been in. Our brethren slept on the floor of the house in their clothes. And in our little enclosure, after getting some sleep, my mind was suddenly but pleasantly turned towards my friends at home, as though sitting in meeting with them; witnessing the renewing of that fellowship with some, with whom I had taken sweet counsel, and gone up to the house of the Lord in company.

I thought I had scarcely ever felt the prevalence of best love, more strong to the different classes of the people, even to the most distant wanderers from the pure principle of Truth; and for this fresh mark of the Heavenly Father’s regard, in the night season, my spirit was contrited.

27th of twelfth month, first-day.—We attended meeting at Neuse river, in which I had to arouse carnal professors, but to encourage those who were cast down on account of the low state of things. From there to Upper Trent meeting, a time of close labour, both to professors and others, in having to point out the states of the righteous and unrighteous, and that such could not unite together in time, nor dwell together in eternity; we went about twenty miles after meeting, and night coming on, we missed our way in the woods, that it was near ten when we reached the Friend’s house. We were out early again next morning, though it rained heavily, to reach a monthly meeting at Core-sound, full fifty miles distant; in which my mind was early impressed with the remembrance of what our blessed Lord spoke of, that a man’s enemies were those of his own household, which was much enlarged in my view, to my own instruction.

Chapter VII

- Her travels in America, in 1796, to the 26th of sixth month.

3rd of first month, 1796, first-day.—We attended a meeting at Club Foot creek, largely attended by those not of our Society, among whom were many black people; and the compassion of the Everlasting Father, who is no respecter of persons, was greatly manifested towards the different classes. In the afternoon, we attended a small meeting of ministers and elders; and on third-day, were at Lower Trent, where we met my valued friend John Wigham. I believe we were mutually glad to see each other again, and were nearly united, as we had often been, in the bonds of the gospel, wherein we were engaged among the people; and the meeting closed in supplication to our Heavenly Father, that His preserving power might continue near to those who put their trust in Him, whether in going forth or staying at home.

We proceeded to Bear creek, sat meeting there on fifth-day, which though small in number, was much interrupted with the noise and playing of children: a caution was given in the early part, but it had little or no effect, that I was ready to give wholly up the apprehension of its becoming a religious opportunity; yet after a time of painful exercise, through the watchful dedication of a younger brother, in opening the door with a few expressions, my spirit became somewhat at liberty to speak of things as I felt them, and to deal plainly with the careless professors of religion, who might have liked smooth things; but I had them not in commission. Next day we attended the monthly meeting at Contentney, where was a large gathering of Friends; yet it felt a low time, in secret travail, and was held in silence as to ministry. I had some remarks to make to women Friends in their meeting, who seemed honestly concerned to do their best; and they received the little help then afforded with gladness.

10th of first month, first-day.—At the meeting at Contentney, which was very large, many not of our Society were present; and soon after retiring in spirit, to the measure of the Divine gift in my own mind, a clear opening of the states of the people was given, when on a sudden all was taken away, and I was favoured with much quietude and resignation. After sitting some time under it, I felt liberty simply to express how it had been with me; that if it should then be the case, it would not be the first time, wherein I had known the scripture declaration fulfilled, that the spirits of the prophets were subject to the prophets, and that a small key unlocked a cabinet of rich treasures, when a larger could not do it. Soon after sitting down, a tender-spirited Friend, who was then a stranger to me, dropped a few expressions in a lively manner, when my way was again opened to discharge my duty, and I humbly trust, through the renewings of divine help, to divide the word.

We attended the meetings in that neighbourhood, Holly Spring, Turner’s Swamp, and Nahanty, in all which I had to labour in the gospel, and returned to Contentney, to the quarterly meeting. That for ministers and elders beginning on seventh-day, where we again met our beloved friend John Wigham.

17th of first month, first-day, in a very large gathering of people, the public labour fell to the lot of the brethren; and I was thankful to feel peace in silence. Towards the close, I felt it right to request the meeting, previous to entering on the discipline of the church next morning, might be select for our own members, which I believe was much the case; and I had to labour in a close searching line among the different ranks of the family, wherein I felt near sympathy with a lowly tried remnant, particularly in the women’s meeting, who appeared humblingly sensible of the situation of things among them. After this meeting I was at liberty in mind to depart, but it being a flat part of the country, and much rain falling for several days, the waters prevented our journeying, except to a meeting or two again in the neighbourhood. My valued fellow-labourer, John Wigham, was detained there with us.

24th of first month, first-day. We each had some further labour in the gospel, then took a solemn and tender leave of Friends, and again parted for the work’s sake, he going southward, and we northward. Some bridges being washed away, it was with difficulty we got to a settlement of Friends on third-day night, after ten o’clock, at Jack Swamp. We attended their week-day meeting, and though a time of heavy rain, many assembled. The outward trials were made easy through the gracious ownings of the Heavenly Shepherd, who influenced with the language of encouragement to the exercised travellers. The next meeting was called Richsquare, but too few of its member appeared to be so, in faith and good works; rather in love with the world, and other undue liberties. Hence it was a time of close labour; yet there seemed a few mourners in Zion, who were encouraged to keep to their exercises, that in the appointed season of the Holy Shepherd, His gracious promises might appertain to them; who through the mouth of His prophet declared, He would give “Beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.”

31st of first month, first-day. We attended meeting at Finey Woods, in the morning, and Beach Spring, in the afternoon; the two following days we were at Wells’s, Western Branch, Little river, and Simon’s creek. On fifth and sixth-days, at Newbegun creek, and the Narrows; in all which I had deep exercise and secret travail of soul, that I might experience the blessing of preservation, in true discernment, and discharge of the trust committed to me.

And my great and gracious helper condescended to accept the dedication, and favoured with a renewal of strength, to go through the almost unremitting labour, with a good degree of relieving peace, in sympathy with the oppressed seed; and in earnest expostulations with the backsliders, who were warned to flee from the wrath to come; and heads of families were entreated to look more closely to the well ordering of the flock; to keep them out of hurtful company, and the many evils which sorrowfully abound, even in a wilderness country.

Many black people attended these meetings, to whom the gospel was preached; and the testimony of Truth went forth in a close manner against their oppressors, who are grievously bending their wicked designs against those who never belonged to them, in taking up, imprisoning, and selling men, women, and children, whom Friends have set free, and settled on their own plantations, to work for themselves. The hearing of which, with many aggravating circumstances, has brought nature and spirit into deep mourning. Great pains and care have been, and still remain to be taken by Friends, on account of this afflicted people, in pleading with the rulers of the state of North Carolina, to protect those who are set free; but such is their hardness of heart, the pleaders have yet pleaded in vain; neither are the people willing to bow to the chastising rod of Omnipotence, which has been gently, yet increasingly shaken in this part of the vineyard, various ways.

On seventh-day we attended the monthly meeting at Piney Woods, wherein I had a little to open the right qualification for usefulness in the discipline of the church, and how preservation would be witnessed by those exercised therein, to keep their places and help to bring others forward. I had also some close remarks to make among women Friends, apprehending the true state of meetings was too easily passed over, in superficial answers to the queries; which sentiment the honestly disposed united with.

7th of second month, first-day. We stayed meeting again at Piney Woods, and I was favoured to feel, I trust, in the silence of all flesh, a peaceful release from the bonds of the gospel, wherein I had laboured in that part of the vineyard; and under a renewed feeling of the gracious condescension of our Heavenly Father towards the children of men, my soul was humbly bowed; and in fellowship with those whose fellowship is with Him, was led to supplicate his holy name, for the continued blessing of preservation to them that put their trust in Him; that those who were afar off might be brought near, to unite in the acknowledgement, that the kingdom, power, and glory, belong unto Him forever. Afterwards my mind was covered with such solemn silence, as felt very instructive and precious, and I hope it was in degree witnessed by many in the meeting. In the evening, we had a religious opportunity in the family where we lodged. Several black people were present, who appeared very serious and tender in spirit; and I had to leave with Friends as my last testimony, that there was no way so likely to bring about a thorough reformation, as a frequent attention to religious retirement in their families, wherein useful instruction might be handed both to children and servants, which would scarcely be attained any other way, tending to preserve from evil, and encourage and strengthen them in that which is good.

In the morning, we set out early towards Somerton, in Virginia; and on third-day, attended a large meeting there, though few of our own Society, among whom the life of religion felt low; but in the discharge of duty towards them and others, I felt a peaceful release. In the same week attended the meeting at Bennet’s creek, Western Branch, etc., in all which much exercise was assigned me, one was particularly trying; desolation appearing so much the state of it, that in returning, the secret impression was like visiting the sepulchres of the dead; without a sensible feeling, that the quickening power of Truth had any reach.

On seventh-day, after a religious opportunity in the family where we lodged, which appeared to be a contriting one to some of the young people, we attended the quarterly meeting for ministers and elders, at Black Water, which felt to me a low time in silent wading.

14th of second month, first-day. A public meeting was held, composed of a large mixed gathering; but many, both professors with us and others, appeared so inattentive to what they were come about, that painful indeed was the labour. On second-day, previous to entering on the discipline, I was led in a close searching line among Friends, which tended greatly to the relief of my own mind. That evening, we went a few miles on our way to a meeting, called Stantons, which was appointed next day at ten; attended another in the afternoon at Seaconch, and in the course of the week Burleigh, Gravelly Run, and Curies.

21st of second month, first-day. At Wainoak, which was a large gathering, many not of our Society attended, and through the renewings of holy help, the doctrines of the gospel were opened, and the Lord’s power magnified, who is worthy forever. On second-day we went to Skimino, had an appointed meeting there on third-day, in a poor miserable house, that needed no other light, than what came from the vacancies in the wood, that we were almost pierced with the cold; but finding a few worth visiting, we were somewhat comforted together; that I could feelingly bear testimony, I did not serve a hard master, but a rich rewarder of those that put their trust in Him. After meeting we rode thirty-five miles. On fourth-day at Black creek, a small meeting.

On sixth-day, we had two at Richmond, the first with Friends, through the ownings of the great Shepherd, was a contriting time to some; who were tenderly counselled to keep under his direction. The other was in the Mason’s-Hall, with the town’s people, who conducted becomingly; and a humble trust was raised that the cause did not suffer. From there we proceeded to Cedar creek, and attended the monthly meeting there on seventh-day, the business whereof seemed more agreeably and satisfactorily conducted, than that of any which we had been at.

28th of second month, first-day. The select quarterly meeting at Cedar creek began at nine, which felt more lively than some others we had attended, and my mind was strengthened in the discharge of duty. At eleven, the public meeting for worship came on, which was a large gathering. A Friend from North Carolina, in the course of a religious visit, being there, had a short but living testimony to bear. On his closing, the word of life arose in my heart, and opened gospel truths to the different states of the people; and near the close, the testimony went forth like a two-edged sword, against the iniquitous traffic of buying, selling, and evilly entreating the sons and daughters of men.

Through the arising of His power, who binds Leviathan, the crooked serpent, the spirits of such were chained, so as to make no opposition; though I was afterwards informed, that several were present who made it their particular business to buy and sell the black people. I humbly trust many minds were made thankful to the blessed Author of all good, who is worthy of praise.

On second-day, the quarterly meeting was held, wherein tender counsel was opened to Friends. On third-day, we were at meeting at Genito, and returned to Cedar creek in the evening, feeling a draft in my mind to be at their meeting on fourth-day. There being a school for Friends’ children and others, the first we had seen in the southern states, they were particularly desired to attend; and though a wet morning, and all lived distant from the house, they were fully gathered, with most of the members about the tenth hour; and through the gracious extendings of our Heavenly Father’s love, I believe it was a tendering and instructive season, to the children and others.

We then took leave, and went sixteen miles on our way to Carolina, where a meeting was appointed next day, in which through divine favour, spiritual strength was renewed to preach the gospel—setting forth the nature of, and qualification for such services—what the purity and spirituality of the Spirit of Truth would lead into, and preserve out of; and the true ministry as taught by Christ, was set over a false hireling one. Many not of our Society were present, who appeared attentive; and if any good was done, “Thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift,” mercifully dispensed to the children of men.

We next morning proceeded on our way to Stafford, and had considerable difficulty in getting through the waters, which were much out of usual bounds, by reason of heavy rain.

One instance of preservation when we appeared in imminent danger, I think worthy of notice: when about the middle of a very wide and deep water, which covered a foot-bridge, one of our horses and the wheels of the wagon got upon it, and put the other in such a position, as hardly to be able to keep his feet; both he and the carriage appearing nearly thrown over.

Our guides were at some distance; but at this critical juncture, when it seemed alike unsafe to stand still or to move, I was favoured with presence of mind to call them back, to hold up the top of the wagon, while we gently moved on to a level place; which we accomplished without any damage. Thus have we experienced merciful deliverance, through the great Caretaker, when much danger has seemed to await us! We then requested our guides to ride abreast before us, at a suitable distance, that they might discover any bank or hollow, and avoid it; which we had often found very useful. I mention this for the help of other travellers in similar situations.

6th of third month, first-day.—We attended meeting at Stafford, a large mixed gathering, and the labour was exercising, yet I hoped might be to some profit. We lodged that night at a tavern on the way to Alexandria; in getting to which we had much difficulty, from the depth of mire and clay. Next day we called to see a family who had once been members of our Society, who still seemed to retain much love for Friends; and being detained by a heavy snow storm, I felt religiously engaged to have the people of the village, both black and white, invited to come together; which was readily made way for, and the meeting held at our lodgings. Though many appeared scarcely to have heard tell of the Holy Ghost, or the inward appearance of the Spirit of Truth; yet through an exercising labour, a hope revived that some little knowledge was communicated to the learned and unlearned.

Towards the close, I had to plead the cause of the oppressed, “to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God,” in his own appointed season, on those who should continue the evil traffic; using our fellow creatures, only differing from us in the colour of the skin, as the brute creation.

When the meeting ended, a well looking man took leave of me, expressing a desire, that the Divine blessing might attend the work. When he was gone, I was told he kept many slaves and was far from being a kind master: so that there seemed some ground to apprehend, the power of conviction at that time touched his mind. We reached Alexandria next day, sat their meeting on fifth-day, and had to labour in the gospel in a close awakening manner, much to the relief of my own mind, which had felt secretly weary and heavy laden. Some not of our Society being present, had informed others, so that when about to depart next day, a Friend asked me if I had been informed, that one of their chief magistrates had sent a request I might be stopped longer in town: I told him I had heard nothing of it, and having often thought, when unclothed of strength, it would be no marvel if bonds and afflictions awaited me from the hands of unreasonable men, rather expected it might be something of that sort, and felt quieted in resignation if it should be the case. He then produced a letter he had received from the above mentioned magistrate, expressive of a desire on the part of himself and others, that my departure might be somewhat deferred, in order to admit of another meeting.

I wished the Friend to inform the writer, that having felt a peaceful liberty of mind from further religious labour in that town, I was then about to leave it; that I had found my way much shut up in the southern states, from having public meetings, being painfully impressed with a feeling, that there was but little room availingly to preach the gospel, which breathes peace on earth, and good will to men, while so much oppression and cruelty is exercised towards our fellow creatures, entirely repugnant to the nature and spirit of Christianity; and until that evil was done away, I did not believe it would spread much among them. The Friend said he would endeavour to communicate the message, agreeably to my desire.

13th of third month, first-day.—We attended a meeting at Indian Spring, in which much painful exercise was my portion, the state thereof appearing like that described by the prophet; the head sick, the heart faint, and scarcely any soundness to be found. On second-day we journeyed on to Elk Ridge, where a meeting was appointed on third-day, which was a large mixed gathering, and mercifully owned with a renewal of strength to labour in the gospel; though the testimony of Truth, as at many other seasons, went forth like a sharp threshing instrument, against those that oppressed their fellow creatures.

From there we went to Baltimore, in Maryland, where we rested one day; and the next attended their week-day meeting, which was a very large gathering of Friends, and many others not of our religious Society, who I evidently felt, were desirous to hear the gospel preached; but I was favoured with a peaceful acquittance, in keeping silence before the Lord.

Next morning, we set forward to a meeting called Littlefalls; but there appeared a great falling away, from the purity and spirituality of the principle we profess, which caused heavy labour, to awaken carnal professors.

20th of third month, first-day.—We attended a small meeting; several not of our Society came in, and counsel was opened, also encouragement to the few belonging to us, in a consistent walking. We went some miles on our way that evening, where we had fresh opportunity painfully to observe, how little attention is paid by many Friends scattered in the country, to take their families steadily to religious meetings; for we found nine females where we lodged, none of whom had attended that day, though several of the younger were then out, on an excursion of what is called pleasure. Mournful indeed is the neglect of many parents in the discharge of care towards their children; and great are the undue liberties taken by many of the young people, which has been cause of much close and exercising labour, in public and private.

We crossed the Susquehanna next day, and called to see a family of Friends from England, who had been greatly tried with indisposition incident to that part of the country: we felt much sympathy with them, and our visit appeared comforting and reviving to their minds.

On fourth-day we were at White Clay creek, where it was satisfactory to feel there was a wrestling seed, with whom my spirit united in travail, though too many were in a lukewarm state. On fifth, we were at Wilmington, a time of close labour. On sixth, at the monthly meeting at Providence, which was largely attended by Friends; and through the renewings of Divine help, it was an instructive season.

That evening we got safe to Philadelphia, where we again met my beloved fellow-labourers, Deborah Darby and Rebecca Young, with other near and dear Friends; and under a grateful humbling sense of the manifold trials and difficulties, we had been preserved in and brought through, by the sustaining help of our Heavenly Father, the silent tribute of acknowledgement was raised in my soul: “Yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, both now and forever.”

On seventh-day morning, began the Spring meeting for ministers and elders, which was largely attended; and after the previous business was gone through, our friend Samuel Emlen and three others, spread their concern to pay a religious visit to some parts of Europe.

It having been a short time since the former returned, the consideration of his going again, had impressed my mind with more than common exercise, almost to doubting the propriety of it; but in that opportunity I was favoured to feel the Spirit of Truth, so bear witness with my spirit, that the holy Shepherd was again putting him forth, that all within me was made to say. Amen.

In the evening of that day I was seized with a heavy cold, attended with sickness, and strong feverish symptoms; arising I believe from the heat of the house, and the chill in going into the cold air.

27th of third month.—I sat the meeting at Pine street in the morning, under so much bodily suffering, that I doubted the propriety of being there, believing I might rather be a hurt to it than otherwise: knowing by experience, that fellow-labourers are sometimes apt to look towards strangers, and neglect the exercise of their own gifts. As soon as I got to our lodgings, I found it needful to retire to bed, where I continued till next evening, in a serene peaceful state of mind, having all I stood in need of tenderly administered to the bodily frame; and I was so far restored as to attend the last sitting of the select meeting on third-day. Certificates of concurrence were then produced for the before mentioned Friends, also certificates for our beloved Deborah Darby and Rebecca Young, expressive of Friends’ near unity with their religious labours and deportment.

3rd of fourth month, first-day.—Attended the meeting at Chichester, which was a large mixed gathering, wherein a renewal of strength was experienced, to labour in the gospel. In the evening we were at a meeting appointed for the inhabitants of Wilmington, which was largely attended. During the gathering of the people, greatly was my mind humbled, and I was brought into a very low dependent state, with a secret but earnest cry, that the Holy Head of the Church, who had compassion on the multitude, might be graciously pleased to own us together by the breaking of bread, whether in silent waiting, or in public labour; and feeling the gentle moving of life, opening my way to express a word or two of my own feelings, I stood up, and in this dedication, the gradual arising of the water of life not only touched the soles of the feet, and reached the ankles, but became like a river. The doctrines of the gospel were largely opened, and the right anointing for gospel ministry, whether in male or female, was pointed out; also that life and salvation came by and through Christ, as we his creatures yield ourselves to obey his will; with an earnest solicitude, that all might be brought into that state. I humbly trust it was a solemn season, the tribute of acknowledgement ascending to the Lord on High, who is worthy forever.

I was weary in body, but felt peaceful quietude of mind; and next morning we set forward to visit the meetings on the Eastern shore of Maryland and Delaware, taking them as follows: Sassafras on third-day, a very small meeting of Friends; many others coming in, it proved a more satisfactory opportunity than I expected, in which some counsel was opened, I trust, to the states of those present, both in reproof, caution and encouragement. On fourth-day we sat the week-day meeting at the head of Chester. Many not of our Society attending, the house was filled; and the doctrines of the gospel were renewedly opened. We were at Cecil on fifth-day, and Chester on sixth-day morning; in the evening we had a public one in the town of Chester; in all which I was engaged to labour, in the ability received, for the discharge of duty, wherein I felt peace.

10th of fourth month, first-day. We sat a small meeting of Friends at Choptank bridge, where the inhabitants of the village came in; and gospel truths were opened, tending to awaken and stir up the mind, to seek after pure and undefiled religion; to which many appeared much strangers. On second-day, at Tuckahoe; in the silent part of the meeting, an instructive sense of the necessity of all that is of the creature, being reduced into entire submission, and dependence on the Creator, impressed my feelings, with pointings of duty to open the subject to others; and in the resignation of my own will, I humbly trust, I was enabled to speak, as the Spirit gave utterance, to the reaching of the witness in some minds then present.

On fourth-day, we were at Bayside, where more not of our Society came, than could get into the house; to whom the compassionate regard of the Shepherd of Israel was manifested. The family where we lodged received us kindly, and the woman appeared like a steady Friend; yet I was secretly exercised, the cause being hid, and I felt no liberty to make inquiry. On going to meeting I told one of the Friends, I had no wish to return to that house of bondage; yet believe it was right we did: for on entering again under the roof, it feelingly presented to my view that the man was a slaveholder; and on asking a Friend who came with us, I found it was so; and that his wife had been convinced of Friends’ principles.

Before we left, I found my peace to consist in discharging my religious duty, not only respecting keeping our fellow creatures in bonds, but on some other subjects; and the remarks appeared to be well received. One of the daughters in particular was much tendered; that when I took leave of her, she laid her head on my shoulder, said nothing, but wept abundantly. From there we proceeded to Third Haven, and Marshy creek.

At the latter we had a meeting, among a people called Nicolites, who much resemble Friends in their outward deportment. I endeavoured to discharge my duty, according to renewed ability, and an apprehension took place, that they would not be long a distinct society from Friends.

17th of fourth month, first-day. We were at Cool Spring; on second-day at Three Runs; third-day at Mother-kill; in all which exercising labour was assigned: the latter in particular was a very large mixed gathering, in which were many black people. Strength was given to divide the word to the different states; and I humbly trust it was a time thankfully to be remembered: the praise thereof was given to the Holy Head of the Church, to whom alone it belonged. We went to Warner Mifflin’s to dine, with several other Friends, and feeling an exercise that drew to silence, I found it right to give way to it; and it became general with those present, among whom were several young people; but very unexpected indeed were the remarks I had to make, of the state of some we read of, who had made a covenant with death, and were at an agreement with hell. The secret conflict of my mind was great, in having such a passage to mention in a small company, among whom appeared little visible sign of deviation. I was informed some weeks after, that a young woman then present, the only child of a valuable minister, married the same week, a man of deistical principles and ordinary character.

24th of fourth month, first-day. We were at a large meeting of Friends at Concord, and a very exercising one to me; though, had I been more honest to my feelings in the discharge of duty, I might have felt a more peaceful reward. Another meeting being appointed in the evening, at Middletown, seven miles distant, and very rough road, we could not stay to dine; indeed I had no appetite to eat; so we took a little matter in the wagon, and reached the meeting in due time; which was also a very large gathering, and through the renewed extendings of Holy help, was an open time of labour, tending greatly to the relief of my oppressed mind. We went that night to Chester, where a meeting was appointed at ten next morning, as was another in the afternoon at Darby, both which were seasons of heavy exercise; but the healing balsam of peace being mercifully granted, was an ample reward for the labour of the day.

Fourth month, 25th. Returned to Philadelphia, where we were again favoured to meet my endeared friends Deborah Darby and Rebecca Young, with many others nearly united in the one precious faith. We attended the North monthly meeting on third-day; Pine street on fourth-day, and on fifth-day, accompanied by our valued friend Samuel Smith and others, attended one at Darby: where I was glad again to meet with Chalkley Albertson, a valuable minister from North Carolina, then on a religious visit: and thankful to the blessed Author of all good, that I had given up to the secret impression of duty in going there.

We all returned to the city that evening, and next day were at the monthly meeting for the middle district; on seventh-day, at that for ministers and elders preceding the quarterly meeting.

1st of fifth month, first-day. We attended three meetings for worship; and on second-day the quarterly meeting, which seemed near closing the labours of my valued country women.

In the evening one appointed for the black people was largely attended, but was a time of heavy labour. Next morning we were at the week-day meeting at Pine street; after dinner we took a near and solemn leave of our before mentioned Friends, and crossed the river Delaware, to visit the meetings on a part of the Jersey shore, in our way to the yearly meeting, at New York.

8th of fifth month, first-day. A very large meeting at Salem, was graciously owned with the extendings of our Heavenly Father’s love, tending to stir up the lukewarm and forgetful, and to encourage the righteous to hold on their way; that, being of the number of those who keep the Truth, they might become fitted to enter the everlasting kingdom. In the course of the week, we attended meetings at Alloway’s Creek, Lower Greenwich, Cape May, Great Egg-harbour, and Little Egg-harbour.

15th of fifth month, first day. We were at Barnagat, a poor shattered meeting every way, yet I felt sympathy for the little that remained alive. That night we lodged at a tavern, and early next morning got to Squancum, where sickness so generally prevailed, that it was doubted whether any could get to the meeting; but after due consideration I was most easy to appoint one, at two o’clock; and many more came than we expected, both of our own Society and others; their minds appearing more stayed and humble than common, perhaps by reason of the sickness. It was a contriting opportunity, for which my heart was made thankful, to the blessed Author of all good. From there to Squan, which was a laborious meeting; many seemed to love other things more than they loved Truth, and the pure seed was much oppressed; under a sense of which near sympathy and encouragement went forth, to a lowly tried remnant.

On third-day we travelled fifty miles to Rahway, part of it in very heavy rain; but the toils of the day were much made up, in finding there our endeared friend Rebecca Jones, and others we much loved, who were also on their way to New York. I had felt pressed in spirit to get there that evening, though we had sat a meeting with Friends there before. My religious prospect was now to have one with those not of our Society, for the lower class of the people, black or white; and when we got there we found their monthly meeting was next day, and a meeting of the above description already appointed at the request of John Simpson, a valuable minister, which felt very pleasant to me; this language being raised in my heart: “If the end designed by the All-wise Director is answered, it is enough.”

I had some cause to apprehend, His providential hand pointed out the path to that monthly meeting. A large number attended in the evening, but were long in collecting, and quietude was much interrupted by the noise of young children, that great was the exercise of my mind, lest we should meet and separate in confusion, rather than religious order; when the before mentioned Friend arose, and in a few emphatical expressions recommended silence, and ingathering of mind; stating an apprehension that he should not have much to communicate. This tended to turn my attention more closely to that which had been secretly struggling in my mind; but faith was so weakened, and doubtful disputations had so far taken place, that I scarcely knew how to rise on my feet; yet that Almighty power who can disperse the darkest cloud, was graciously pleased to do so at that time, opening counsel, and breaking such bread as he saw fit for the multitude; raising grateful acknowledgements in the minds of the exercised.

22nd of fifth month, first-day. The public meetings at New York were very large: my valued fellow-labourer John Wigham and myself, being strangers and foreigners, the desire of the people seemed raised to hear us in public testimony: but I trust He who commands the clouds, was pleased to order our way in silence, and strengthen peacefully to acquiesce in His holy will. The meetings for business began on second-day, and continued by adjournments till seventh-day, wherein Friends appeared to labour in the ability received, for the help one of another; and counsel was administered, as Truth opened the way, by those strangers present. The business of men Friends closing about the same time, the shutters that parted the house were opened; a quiet pause took place in both apartments, and the meeting appeared to end under a profitable solemnity.

29th of fifth month, first-day. Three public meetings were held; the last was one appointed in the evening for young people of all descriptions, and was graciously owned by the regard of the Heavenly Father, towards those in the slippery path of youth. On third-day we left the city, parting with some endeared Friends in near affection; and proceeded to visit the northern part of the state. On fourth-day morning we were at Purchase; and in the evening at North Castle, both very exercising meetings. Fifth-day at Shapaqua, sixth-day at Collerbark, a small meeting; but some tender visited minds being present, it was a contriting opportunity.

5th of sixth month, first-day. In the morning, at Amawalk, the quietness becoming religious meetings was much interrupted; on which, as at many other seasons, I had close remarks to drop; and being faithful to the requirings of Truth, on that and other subjects which opened, I felt a peaceful release. In the evening a meeting appointed at Bedford, was largely attended by those not in profession with us, whose minds so generally appeared strangers to the principle of Truth, it was heavy work to labour among them; yet some sustaining hope was afforded, that a little ground was gained.

Next day, we were at Peach Pond, a painfully exercising time, in which I had a sense given, and had to tell Friends my apprehension, that their meeting was not kept up in a way likely to produce religious improvement, or even to be what is esteemed reputable among men. I was afterwards informed, this was the real state of the case; and that, some months before, a Friend expressing his feelings somewhat after the same manner, had been publicly opposed by one of these self confident members; when a tender-spirited man, not of our religious Society, arose, and declared, the stranger had told them the truth, it was just their situation. I felt a secret travail they might be brought to a profitable remembrance, that out of the mouths of two witnesses, things were to be established.

On third-day, we were at the Valley, a trying meeting, though I was dipped into near sympathy with some exercised travellers. A circumstance occurred there, which I think worthy of notice. A valuable Friend belonging thereto, found his mind so impressed with a belief that we should be there on third-day, that at the close of their meeting on first-day, he mentioned the same, though he did not know we were in the neighbourhood. This, however singular, proved favourable to us, as the request to appoint a meeting, had not come to hand. He afterwards accompanied us to several meetings, being a living minister, to whom we felt nearly united.

The next day, at Oblong, the life of religion seemed at a very low ebb; the outward quiet also was again painfully interrupted; but, through the renewings of best help, I was favoured to clear myself in a faithful discharge of duty, so as to feel the reward of peace.

On fifth-day, we were at New Milford, a small meeting of Friends. Others who came in appeared so light and airy, that a close testimony was given me to bear; and though hard work to thresh the mountains of empty profession, among our own members or others, yet a humble trust was raised, that through painful labour, Truth gained some ground over contrary spirits; and the few mourners were somewhat comforted.

On sixth-day, we were at the Branch, a trying meeting, attended with close secret baptism of spirit; yet encouragement was handed to the exercised travailers. That evening, we crossed a high rough mountain to Apoquage.

At meeting there next day, the number of Friends was small, and things felt very low in general; that my mind was dipped into near sympathy with the few that were alive in the Truth: counsel was opened, for the encouragement of such, and to awaken others out of their lapsed state.

12th of sixth month, first-day. In the evening, at Westside, the people gathered in due season, and settled down in rather an unusual quietude, which felt very grateful to my often tribulated mind; and I fully believed tended to draw down the divine blessing. The language of the Prophet, was livingly opened in my remembrance: “The Lord is in his holy temple, let all the earth keep silence before Him.” And the Almighty Father, who enjoined the people formerly to wait on Him, for the renewal of their strength; to draw near, and then to speak; was graciously pleased to open counsel, in testimony to the sufficiency of His own power; for the information, instruction, and encouragement of many present: that I humbly trust it may be said, it was a good meeting.

We went afterwards to visit an elderly Friend, in a declining state, who appeared in so prepared and resigned a frame of mind, that it was pleasant to sit by him. It was late when we got to our lodgings, having about eight miles to go; that I felt very weary: but on lying down I thought I could say with a pious author:

“Now another day is gone,I’ll sing my Maker’s praise, etc.”

On fourth-day, we attended the monthly meeting at Nine Partners. A large number of Friends belong to it, some of whom appeared well concerned for the maintenance of right order.

The wide difference between the gospel dispensation and that of the law, was early opened in my view; and through the renewings of best help, I was enabled to point it out, for the encouragement of the faithful; reminding the lukewarm professors, of the purity and spirituality of that principle, which we hold forth in so distinguished a manner to the world. I felt much nearness of spirit Awards some women Friends; and when separated from the brethren, my spirit was bowed before the throne of Grace, in supplication to the Holy Head, that He might be near to strengthen in every good word and work.

Next morning, we sat with a committee appointed to have the care of a boarding school in that yearly meeting; for which purpose Friends have purchased a large house. Feeling interested in the undertaking, I offered to return, after taking some meetings in the neighbourhood; and with them to review the premises, and render any assistance in my power; which appeared to be gladly accepted.

That evening, we went to an appointed meeting at Stanford, to which few Friends belong; but it was fully attended by the lower class of people, who, I had to apprehend, made little profession of religion. Through the compassionate regard of the heavenly and universal Father, counsel was opened in a plain simple manner, so that the unlearned might understand; and I trust the witness for Truth was reached in some minds.

On sixth-day, the monthly meeting at Creek was large, wherein I felt the help of the spirits of fellow-labourers, who were encouraged to faithfulness; with some close labour to arouse carnal professors.

On seventh-day morning, we returned to Nine Partners, spent about four hours with Friends in viewing the house before mentioned, making such remarks as occurred, which were taken down for further consideration. We left them in the evening, with unfeigned desires for the prosperity of the school, apprehending that many in the present day have imbibed a very false idea of a right education for children, and thereby such have lacked useful knowledge, in things both religious and civil.

26th of sixth month, first-day morning. At New Britain, the people were more than the house could contain, I felt dismayed when it was first proposed to hold the meeting out of doors, fearing I could not bear the heat of the sun; but being shaded by trees, I did better than I expected, believing the renewings of divine regard were towards the multitude as formerly, to feed with that food which He saw best for them. To Him belongs the praise of his own works, both now and forever.

Chapter VIII

- Further labours in America in the year 1796.

We proceeded to Stephentown, about eight miles of such extremely rough, hilly road, as was very fatiguing to the body; and the appearance of the people at a meeting appointed in the evening, was not less discouraging to the mind; for they seemed to come as if to merriment, rather than to a religious opportunity; yet there was cause to hope that, through a trying labour, some minds were reached and brought into quietude by the power of Truth but as in the outward, so in the inward, cultivation is much lacking.

On third-day, at East Hoosack, in the renewings of gospel authority, Truth was declared, tending to encourage the rightly exercised, and awaken such as professed with us, who were too much settled on the lees of formality. We proceeded that evening, about twenty miles, on our way to White creek, lodged at a poor tavern, and got in time for their meeting next morning; in which things appeared very low. This was also the case at Pittstown, where we attended meeting next morning; but we were comforted in the company of a young woman, who had been confined to her bed nearly eleven years, through bodily weakness, which she seemed to endure with much cheerfulness; her mind being conversant with the Spirit of Truth. She had a much clearer sense of the state of Society, than many who are able to attend meetings. We parted with her in near affection; and reached Saratoga that evening, where we rested sixth and seventh days, at the house of very agreeable Friends, to recruit bodily health, having taken cold.

3rd of seventh month, first-day. We attended meeting at Saratoga, which was large, and a time of close searching labour; but in the faithful discharge of duty, I was favoured with the reward of peace, which is a support under bodily trial. We got to Easton next morning, in time for the meeting, a very large mixed gathering; and great was the desire of the people to hear the gospel preached, that for a considerable time I was led to apprehend it would please Infinite Wisdom, to permit a peaceful release in silence; but when we had sat nearly the usual time, I rose with little expectation of saying more than what had been my feelings, respecting the strong desire to hear the sound of the gospel through instrumental labour, rather than to attend to that by which it is preached in every mind; but before I could feel at liberty, many things opened, setting forth the purity and spirituality of the principle we profess; and that those among us who were got no farther than form or tradition, would be no better than such among other professors.

On fifth-day, the monthly meeting at Danby, tended much to the relief of my oppressed mind, the Spirit of Truth opening counsel, in a close testimony against wrong things; also for the information and encouragement of those who were truly seeking after the knowledge of it. The meeting for discipline held very long.

By the minutes, the number that had applied for membership appeared great; which I was glad I knew nothing of, before the preceding meeting, wherein I had to remind Friends that it was a time of much requesting to become members of our Society, and that a very ready admission of such, might multiply the numbers, but not increase the church’s true joy; which could not be promoted by any means short of coming in at the right door, by Christ, the way, the truth, and the life, I had been for sometime willing to hope, that Danby monthly meeting would be the extent of our wilderness travel in this yearly meeting; but I found my mind still drawn forward, and in desiring resignation to the divine will, was strengthened to proceed. Next morning soon after sunrise we journeyed on, and rode by moonlight in the evening, before we could get to a suitable lodging place. The people were gone to bed, and unwilling to let us in, but by entreaty were at last prevailed upon; and though we got very little for ourselves or horses, we paid a higher price than for much better fare in England, which is often the case.

10th of seventh month, first-day. We attended meeting at Ferrisburgh, and in the evening one at Monkton; in both which were a considerable number not of our Society, to whom the way of Truth was opened; and those who made profession of it, were reminded of the necessity of walking consistently therewith.

We went a few miles that evening, on our way to the Grand Isle, in Lake Champlain. On our way, much rain having fallen, the prospect was discouraging, of travelling through the woods, where in many places it was difficult for the horses to pass one after another: we had left our carriage at Ferrisburgh. On the third day’s journey, after riding about eight miles, my companion, myself, and a woman Friend in company, were obliged to take to a boat, though very small and poor, not much bigger than a canoe, having three miles to go on the water, part of which was a disagreeable swamp, that sometimes our shattered bark seemed ready to stick fast. Our men Friends had also much difficulty in getting along with the horses, being sometimes nearly plunged to their shoulders in sloughs, and having a mile to ride in deep water.

We could not but esteem it a great favour, that during our passage it did not rain, but when we got to the other side, it came on heavily, and continued several hours. We set forward again when it cleared; and being favoured with a secret evidence, that the Lord had a seed on that Isle, which he designed to visit, and bring to the knowledge of Himself, I was therefore thankful that resignation was wrought in me, to obey his will in going there; some being already measurably convinced of the principle of Truth. My way seemed opened to call on these in their families, as we passed along: a Friend and his wife being along with us, who were under appointment to visit one of the meetings, could inform us where they lived.

Rising early next morning, and going down the lake in a canoe, we sat with most of them before meeting, which began at eleven. Public notice being given, a large number came, among whom, as I was afterwards informed, was a Presbyterian minister, who lived about eight miles distant, and had been much prepossessed against women’s preaching, but was observed to sit very solid and attentive. Feeling the word of life to arise, I had early to point out the opening of the gospel day, and the memorable conference between our blessed Lord and the woman of Samaria. A humble trust was raised, that things opened as the Spirit gave utterance, to the information and instruction of many present. When clear of those not yet of our fold, I requested such as professed with us, and any of their families that inclined, to stop a little; when caution and counsel farther opened, respecting those acquainted with the teachings of the Holy Spirit, pointing out the importance of attending thereunto, that they might witness preservation themselves, and become as way-marks to others.

After dinner, we left them in near affection, and took a boat to cross another part of the lake, about four miles over; in which Friends were kindly assisting, taking our horses in a scow, and us in a sail boat. We went about six miles further that evening, towards another settlement of Friends, and lodged at a poor tavern. We set off about sun-rise in the morning; but our way being through thick woods, and many deep sloughs, we were more than five hours, in going what was called fifteen miles. A Friend who led the way, on one of our carriage horses, got so deep in the mire, that he had but just time to dismount, before the horse sunk to his shoulders; but by the care and activity of men Friends in company, he was got out without receiving much hurt; and we did not meet with another place so bad, though we had to dismount several times, and walk on logs.

The meeting at eleven, proved a trying time of heavy exercise; but it felt right to appoint another in the evening for those not professing with us, which was also a laborious season, and seemed as though little ground was gained on the right side; that I wished to experience that situation of mind the Apostle mentions, who had learned in all states to be content.

Next day, we had another rough trying travel, and lodged at a tavern, near the lake, which we crossed next morning; and in the afternoon reached Ferrisburgh again.

17th of seventh month, first-day. We attended their meeting, in the afternoon had religious opportunities in some of their families, and on second-day morning proceeded towards Queensbury. On fifth-day many not of our Society assembled; an exercising season it was, in silent suffering with the seed, under a painful sense, that too few were sincerely desirous of becoming acquainted with the nature and spirituality of Christ’s kingdom, or the religion he teaches, which makes the tree good, and washes clean the inside of the cup and platter.

Of this, near the usual time of concluding a meeting, I found an engagement to point out the necessity, in the ability received, and to hold forth the language of encouragement to Zion’s travellers; hoping there were a few names that had not denied the faith, but who desired to love the Truth above all other things; with whom I felt fellowship in the bonds of the gospel.

24th of seventh month, first-day. At Greenfield, a small number of Friends, and a great number of other people attended, who seemed strangers to the nature of religion, that my spirit was much oppressed among them for some time; but, through a painful exercising labour, I got a degree of relief; and on silently pondering as we rode along, the cause of such deep wading on account of others, an instructive intimation opened on my mind, that those who are filling up their measure of suffering which is yet behind, for the body’s sake which is the church, have a portion to bear of the deviation of others, among whom their lot is cast; and to wait the appointed time, until help is renewed by a superior power, is indispensably necessary; so I much desired in all states to be content, if only favoured with the blessing of preservation to see and do right.

The next day, at Gralloway, a large number attended not of our Society; and on first sitting down I was ready to feel dismay, lest it should prove such a meeting as the preceding; but a profitable quiet spreading over us, I had to believe there were many seekers after Truth; and in the renewings of gospel light and love, I had to point out what it was, where to be sought, and how to be found; and that it would be exalted in man, above all outward and shadowy performances, by giving victory over sin and evil, which none of these could do.

The next day at Ballstown, a small exercising meeting, too much of a self-righteous spirit was prevalent. That evening, we returned to Saratoga, and attended their monthly meeting. After sitting in silence some time, a remark or two impressing my feelings, I stood up; and my way was altogether unexpectedly opened, in a close searching testimony, tending to lay waste that righteousness which is no better than filthy rags. I had to point out some particular things, on which many were in danger of laying greater stress, than in attending and directing others, to the inward cleansing Spirit of Truth, the power whereof would lead to a consistent walking in all respects; but the form without it would do little. I was sensible such plain dealing went hardly down with some; but my peace consisted therein, of which I largely partook from my blessed Master, whose secret power upheld and sustained, beyond all that could oppose, within or without.

That evening, we had a humbling precious opportunity, in the Friends’ family where we lodged; and early in the morning, took leave of them in tender love, proceeding to Albany, about thirty miles, where we had a meeting the same evening. My bodily frame was greatly oppressed with the heat of the weather, and during the night there was an awful storm of thunder, lightning, and heavy rain, that I was ready to query whether there was any sinner in Zion, that would not be made afraid? or hypocrite, that fearfulness would not surprise, at such a display of the Omnipotent Hand?

31st of seventh month, first-day.—We sat two meetings, both deeply exercising in silent wading, till near the time of breaking up the latter, when I felt a commission to speak. The remembrance of the prophet being sent to visit the children of the captivity, and sitting where they sat, in silence and astonishment, for the space of seven days, had been much opened in my view. Some close expostulations were dropped, and the tried travellers Zion ward, encouraged to hold on their way. We purposed leaving early next morning, but my health did not admit of it. On third-day after a humbling opportunity at our lodgings, we set forward for Crum Elbo, where a meeting was appointed next morning, and was fully attended by Friends and others. The Shepherd of Israel was graciously pleased to own us, by the breaking of bread, to the encouragement of Zion’s travellers, and instruction of others.

That afternoon, we proceeded on our way to Clinsophus, and next day attended their meeting, in which I was engaged to labour in the ability received, to feel with the seed and to administer such counsel as Truth opened; and though it was a low exercising labour, I felt inward quiet. After dinner we had a stony, rough travel, towards Newburgh Valley, where a meeting next day seemed fully attended by Friends and others, though in the height of their harvest; and my mind became early humbled under a secret sense of the hovering of divine regard, in accepting and owning the dedication of the people, in leaving their outward callings to wait upon Him.

We went that evening to New Marlborough, where a meeting was appointed next morning, in which for a time, my mind was exercised in a low travail, I believed, with the seed and for its sake. As preservation was witnessed to abide therein the appointed season, the consoling evidence of Truth arose in this language: “Zion knows her rest:” which remains the dwelling place of the righteous; and in due time, my way was opened to enlarge thereon, in communication, I trust to the help and encouragement of the true travellers; also in expostulation to the different states of the people and my spirit bowed before the throne of grace, for the continuation of Holy help, to carry forward his own work.

7th of eighth month, first-day.—We attended their meeting; and after a season of much inward poverty, my empty vessel witnessed a fresh supply of the divine anointing, and I was enabled to speak of things as the Spirit gave utterance; opening counsel to the learned and unlearned in religious matters; with a call to such as are living from under the fear of God.

On second-day, was a select meeting at the same place, in which the members of two monthly meetings united; some encouragement to the tried travellers was given to communicate.

On third-day, the select quarterly meeting was held at Nine Partners, wherein further counsel was opened to that part of the body, which I believe was well received. Next day that for transacting the affairs of the church, was held; a large number of Friends assembled, and Truth opened my way in discharge of duty, I humbly trust, to the instruction and encouragement of many, and to the relief of my own mind; though it was very unexpected when I left these parts, that my lot would be cast there again.

On fifth-day was held a public meeting, largely attended by those not of our profession, wherein several testimonies were borne; yet it felt an exercising season, both in silence and while engaged in communication; leaving a secret impression heavy on my mind, that though many loved to hear the gospel preached, it might be said as in former days: “Who has believed our report? etc.” the painful evidence continuing with me, that many were much in the state of the people, among whom our blessed Lord did not many mighty works, because of their unbelief. That evening we left Friends in nearness of spirit, proceeding some miles on our way. Next morning we parted with Abraham Underbill, a valuable elder, who had accompanied us many weeks. Feeling near regard, the separation was a fresh trial; yet believing the right time was come for his leaving us, we were enabled cheerfully to resign him, under those tendering impressions that unite the children of one Father.

14th of eighth month, first-day.—We were at Cornwall, the particular meeting of which David Sands is a member, who is now on a religious visit in Europe. In the early part, through the renewings of gospel fellowship, and under the influence of that love which many waters cannot quench, my spirit was united to his; and contrited in considering, how it pleased unerring Wisdom to call forth his servants from one part of the vineyard to another, to publish the gospel of peace; yet through the remaining part of the meeting, I was made fully sensible that unless there was a willingness in those that heard the sayings of Christ, to become doers thereof, all the labour bestowed would be unavailing. I was engaged to press home to the consideration of those present, the importance of the subject; and in the discharge of my duty felt peace; parting with some individuals in much tenderness of spirit.

The next settlement of Friends being seventy miles distant, we went part of the way that evening, and on third-day morning, were at meeting at Hardwick, in New Jersey; which was a season of deeply exercising labour, but in resignation thereunto, sustaining hope was granted, that fragments necessity to be gathered up, were offered to the people.

On fourth-day at Kingwood, in the meeting my mind became humblingly impressed with a belief, that a gracious regard hovered round a backsliding people, in order that they should return, repent and live; and through a renewal of strength, I was enabled to discharge my duty, and was favoured with a secret hope that the labour would not be wholly in vain.

21st of eighth month, first-day morning at Trenton meeting, many attended not of our religious Society, several of them esteemed of the higher rank; among whom a renewal of strength was vouchsafed, to open the Truth as professed by us; to exalt its power above all the contrivance of men; and to remind our own members, what manner of men and women we should be, if we acted consistently therewith, agreeably to our holy profession: and I was favoured with a sustaining hope that the cause did not suffer. In the evening at Bordentown, I had again to labour in a mixed gathering, having to believe there were some tenderly visited minds; yet that others present were tinctured with infidelity. That evening we went home with Nathan Wright, husband to my endeared friend Rebecca Wright, before mentioned.

On second-day at Crosswicks, we had a very large meeting, which gathered into quietude becoming the dignity of such assemblies; and a tender-spirited handmaid, young in the ministry, was commissioned with a call to come out of Babylon; when suddenly was opened, the remembrance of Mystery Babylon, where was the harlot and false prophet; and as my spirit became weightily baptized with the impression, I trust I was enabled to speak as the Spirit gave utterance; and through an exercising labour in the discharge of duty to the different classes of the people, I experienced inward quietude.

From Crosswicks we went to a meeting called Robins’s, and on third-day morning were at Upper Freehold, a large meeting, particularly of young people, wherein the humbling display of divine kindness was graciously manifested, in a peculiar manner; and I trust it will be a memorable day to some. In this meeting my dear companion, who had been for some time under the preparing hand of her Heavenly Father, for the work of the ministry, yielded resignation to his will, in publicly espousing his cause, to the humble rejoicing of my spirit.

That evening we went home with M. Newbold, a living minister of the gospel. On fourth and fifth-days, we were at Upper Springfield, Shrieve Mount, and Vincent Town. The greater part of the last meeting were not of our Society; and through divine regard it was an open time of labour, though under much bodily trial, from the extreme heat. On sixth-day morning, we were at Mount Holly, the particular meeting of which that dignified servant of Christ, John Woolman, had been a member; but low indeed is now the state of it, and painfully exercising was the labour; yet not without a sense of near sympathy with the lowly travellers.

In the evening, we were at Rancocas, wherein a solemn call was proclaimed, to remember their latter end, with many gospel truths pointing out the danger of delay; which I hope had a humbling effect on some. On seventh-day, we attended the select quarterly meeting at Burlington.

28th of eighth month, first-day.—At Burlington we attended two meetings for worship; and I was thankful to feel quietude in silent waiting, while other servants were employed in bearing testimony to the Truth. On second-day the meeting for business not beginning till the eleventh hour, which I think a great loss of precious time, the heat was so extreme, and the air so oppressive, that my bodily frame seemed scarcely able to support its feelings; yet I was favoured with patient resignation, and before the meeting ended I got some relief, by a renewed display of the Omnipotent hand, though awfully exhibited in thunder, lightning, and heavy rain, which appeared to bring solemnity over many minds; when my way was opened to bear testimony to His Sovereign Power, whose dispensations are all in wisdom; and the meeting closed in supplicating his High and Holy name, that the blessing of preservation might attend His flock and family.

We went home with my dear friend Rebecca Wright, and attended their meeting at Mansfield, on fourth-day, a very large gathering, the more so on account of a burial. My mind became exercised before the Lord; and under a sense of the great cause I was engaged in, my cries were strong to Him in secret, for preservation in the discharge of duty. When rising on my feet I felt it to be in fear and trembling; for while sitting under the renewal of baptism, I had to believe, that the state of the meeting was very complicated. But it is only for you to read. Oh! fellow traveller, you who are able to do it, in a similar line, what it is to be so engaged, and how great the care and watchfulness which is necessary, even when under the holy anointing. The states of the people are opened like flowers in a garden, some appearing beautiful to the eye, and affording a pleasant savour; others of a contrary appearance, yielding an offensive smell; others having little or no scent. To know how the culturing hand should be turned upon these, in order to help, is indeed a weighty matter; and nothing short of that adorable Wisdom, which alone is profitable to direct, can accomplish it according to the divine will.

Having laboured in the ability received, I felt the reward of relieving peace, which marvellously supported the outward frame; a great solemnity was over the meeting, and a becoming attention to what was delivered. If any good was done, I am thankful in knowing, the praise is due only to the blessed Author of all good. It being their preparative meeting day, women Friends were left to transact their part of the business, when I found it further my duty, to expostulate with the mothers of children, and such as had them under care, that no undue liberty or wrong indulgence, might be allowed on their parts; some of which were pointed out and closely cautioned against; and the great Name was supplicated for the preservation of the lambs of the flock, who are brought under the forming care of the Heavenly Shepherd.

On fourth-day, at Old Springfield, many attended not in profession with us; and the truths of the gospel were again opened, and I trust, had a reaching tendency in some minds; yet there seemed a painful prevalence of the spirit of unbelief in others. I was afterwards informed that some then present, had openly declared such sentiments; but a hope was expressed that they might at that season be a little reached.

In this neighbourhood we lodged at Nathan Wright’s; and we had the company of some of my companion’s near relatives from New England, which seemed like a little encampment by the wells of water, and palm trees; but for the work’s sake we had now to be separated. On sixth and seventh-days we were at Mansfield Neck and Makefield, both seasons of close exercise, in sympathy with the seed under suffering, and of labouring to awaken carnal professors.

4th of ninth month, first-day. At Plumstead, in a large mixed gathering; in the early part of it my mind was afresh brought under close inward exercise; the remembrance of our blessed Lord’s enquiry concerning his servant John, “What went you out for to see? A reed shaken with the wind, etc.,” seemed so applicable to my inward state, that I felt much bowed in renewed desire, to know and do the divine will, if any opening should arise therefrom, to communicate to others; which after a time of silent waiting became my engagement, and though laborious, I was enabled to discharge my duty to several classes of the people; for which I felt the consoling evidence of peace, the only sure reward of those who desire to be faithful.

On second-day at Buckingham, a very large monthly meeting, was an open time of labour, previous to transacting the discipline of the church. We then attended the following monthly meetings, in the same county, namely: on third-day, Wrightstown; fourth-day, Falls; fifth-day, Middletown; all which were seasons of exercising labour, both in worship and discipline: the latter appearing to me painfully unsettled, in part occasioned by the admission of those not of our Society to see the passing of marriages, and the great aptness of too many of our own members to go in and out. I endeavoured faithfully to discharge my duty, in warning the unruly, and encouraging those who are concerned for the welfare of Zion; enjoining parents of children, and those who had the care of them, in much sisterly sympathy and affectionate solicitude, to be more religiously engaged to have them under right government and subjection at home, and then I believed they would conduct themselves better at meetings.

On sixth-day morning, a meeting appointed for the black people, under the care of Friends in that quarter, was fully attended, and I trust was a time of instructive, sympathetic labour through which I hoped some would be encouraged to do well. That evening we were at a meeting at Bristol, largely attended by those not of our religious Society, wherein, I trust, the doctrines of the gospel were opened, and reached the witness in many minds. We crossed the river to Burlington by moonlight; and for lack of sufficient hands to row, were about an hour on the water, but were favoured to land safe, and were again kindly received by the family of our valued friend John Hoskins, who had been acceptably and encouragingly with us, in our travels in that neighbourhood. Next morning, we rode fifteen miles to the monthly meeting of Upper Evesham, rather a newly settled one; and I rejoiced to find Friends under the weight and exercise thereof, that things might be rightly conducted; and a testimony went forth to animate and encourage them, in the continued discharge of duty, that none might grow weary or faint by the way.

11th of ninth month, first-day. At Old Evesham, we were at a very large mixed gathering, wherein many minds felt to me to be greatly afloat, far from being gathered to the house of prayer; and for a considerable time, the heavens seemed to me as brass, and the earth as iron, and my way was shut up as in thick darkness; but after the dedication of some others, in giving up to the pointings of duty, light broke forth, and counsel was opened in a close line, yet encouraging to the faithful, to the relief of my own mind. We went home that evening, with Martha Allinson, a valuable Friend, who was left a widow with a large family of children; and being religiously concerned for their welfare, the divine blessing has attended, so that it was pleasant to be under her roof. A religious opportunity with them was in a very encouraging line.

On fifth-day, the 22nd, we were at the monthly meeting at Byberry, where the children of a large school under Friends’ care were requested to attend. Towards them and others much counsel was opened by several strangers then present, and a hope was raised that some part at least, might be as bread cast on the water.

On sixth-day, we attended the quarterly meeting at Haddonfield; that for worship was a large mixed gathering, which has often appeared to me to obstruct the opening of counsel to the members of our own Society. I found nothing with clearness to communicate, till in the women’s meeting, when my mind became much dipped into sympathy with a number, exercised for the cause of Truth; and I trust there was great openness to receive, what appeared right to spread among them.

On seventh-day morning, we crossed the Delaware to Philadelphia, in company with several Friends, and got in time, to the meeting of ministers and elders, being the commencement of the yearly meeting, 24th of ninth month, which held by adjournment till the evening of 1st of tenth month; and such meetings as I attended among brethren and sisters, were mostly conducted in a solid, weighty manner, tending to the help and instruction one of another.

The women’s meeting was much larger than I had ever before seen; and there was great openness to labour therein, both in ministry, and for the well ordering of the discipline of the church. At this season, the further consideration of admitting black people into membership with Friends, was revived; and a large committee was appointed, wherein concerned women Friends were admitted. Their weighty deliberations felt to me to be evidently owned of Truth; the result whereof was, that no distinction of colour should be an objection, when such as requested to be joined with us, appeared to be convinced of the principles we profess. This being spread before the yearly meeting, was united in, without a dissenting voice. Friends had also under their notice, the continued care of the native Indians, as opened the year before; likewise the establishment of a large boarding school for Friends’ children.

Several women Friends with myself, attended these committees; and great appeared the care and benevolence of many, on these interesting accounts; wherein they had my near sympathy and sincere solicitude, that they might be strengthened for the work. I attended about thirty sittings, and was renewedly supported beyond expectation; several more select opportunities at our lodgings, were preciously owned with the renewed offers of heavenly love.

2nd of tenth month, first-day. We stayed the morning meeting at Pine street, then had a tendering opportunity with many near and dear Friends, and proceeded on our way to Baltimore. On third-day, we crossed the Susquehanna; on fourth-day we were at meeting at Deer creek; fifth-day, at Fawn; and sixth-day, at Gunpowder; and reached Baltimore that evening, in company with dear John Wigham, who fell in with us at the last meeting; and we were enabled to labour together in gospel fellowship. On seventh-day, was the meeting for ministers and elders preceding the yearly meeting, wherein I had very close labour, having to point out, in much plainness of speech, the neglect of parental care and authority over the children; so that many of those belonging to that rank of the family, were stumbling blocks, instead of ensamples to others. I believe the evidence of Truth so made its way, that none were offended; but I hope were rather animated to greater watchfulness over their families.

Several of the sittings, in transacting the discipline, were so oppressive, and the life so low, that secret mourning was the portion of many exercised minds; until it pleased Infinite Wisdom to disperse the cloud, in favouring with ability to discover the hidden things of darkness, and to point out the cause, why Israel could not journey forward. It appeared convincingly clear, that, among other things which needed searching into, the young children, and those more grown up, among the black people under Friends’ care, were greatly neglected; from a sense whereof, it became the judgment of the meeting, to appoint a committee to visit the families of such, in order to feel after the pointings of Truth for their help every way; which prospect was laid before the men’s meeting, and so made its way, that a number of men and women Friends were appointed.

Much labour was also bestowed, for the help of the young people assembled with us; though the minds of many appeared so afloat, as scarcely to admit of any impression; but some were much tendered, affording ground to hope it would tend to their lasting profit. On seventh-day the meeting concluded, under the renewed prevalence of our Heavenly Father’s love

Chapter IX

- Her Travels in America, during the remainder of the year 1796.

16th of tenth month, first-day morning. We attended a large gathering of our own Society and others. In the afternoon, a meeting for the black people was a very exercising time; yet a humble trust was raised, that it would be rendered profitable to some. In the evening, many Friends being at our lodgings, the renewed offers of heavenly regard were manifested among us.

On fourth-day, we were at West Nottingham. The meeting was attended by Friends, and many not of our Society; the reaches of heavenly love went forth, to the varied states and classes of the people, in order to gather such as were afar off, to an acquaintance with Truth; to strengthen those who were near, to acknowledge the Lord’s might and seek after the knowledge of His will on all occasions, not leaning to their own understandings.

On fifth-day, we were at Little Britain, a painful, exercising season; little relief was gained either in silent travail, or in public labour.

On sixth-day, at East Britain, a quiet opportunity, held mostly in silence.

23rd of tenth month, first-day. We were at East Nottingham, where also was dear John Wigham; it was a very large gathering, such a one as George Churchman thought he had not seen for seven years; and it was graciously owned by the Shepherd of Israel, in opening counsel, tending to draw the attention of the people, to seek after the knowledge of His holy way, manifested by his pure Spirit in their own minds; and his great name was supplicated, on behalf of those who profess the Truth, as it is in Jesus.

On second-day, we were at West Grove, a large meeting. It was a time of deep wading, both in the silent part, and while speaking, under a sense that many were willing to hear what the poor exercised servants had to say, but very few to be baptized with the baptism, or drink of the cup, that such have to partake of; and through reluctance to come to the practical part of what is pointed out to them, they remain hearing, but not doing the sayings of Christ; so that the truly anointed ministers have almost to stand alone; few to hold up their hands, even in the exercise of their gifts.

The minds of many of the hearers being afloat, and others at ease, makes it hard, dragging work to get along, in the faithful discharge of duty; which seemed in a distinguished manner to be the state of that meeting; yet with a few lowly travellers my mind was nearly united.

On third-day, at Fallowfield, a newly settled meeting, not quite so trying as the last, was much hurt by the late coming in of many. Through the renewings of holy help, strength was administered to open counsel to those professing with us, and to such as were not of our fold, setting forth the one effectual baptism which now saves.

On fourth-day, at London Grove, a large meeting, the labour was exercising, yet not without some feeling, that the Holy Shepherd was near, to help those that put their trust in Him, and to gather the wanderers to the fold of rest. It was their preparative meeting, in which the queries were answered in writing: and though there appeared a considerable number likely to be active in discipline, they got slowly forward, which is often the case to a trying degree, by having much dependence on those in the station of overseers. I have been much exercised for the help of Friends in many places; which labour has generally been well accepted.

On sixth-day at Kennet, a great number attended, mostly professing with us, there being few others in that neighbourhood. While sitting in silence, the only availing saving principle of Truth was opened, and raised in my view, beyond the power of words to set it forth, though a painful sense attended, that many had gone from it. I was engaged, in an exercising labour, yet not without a consoling hope that there were a number preserved, among the several classes of the people, who are seeking the way to Zion, with their faces set towards it.

That evening, we had a religious opportunity in a large family where we lodged, which was graciously owned by the Shepherd of Israel.

On seventh-day, at Birmingham, a very large meeting, in the settling down of it, was remarkably covered with solemnity; and the spirit of prophecy, or preaching (see 1 Cor. 14:3) was poured forth on sons and daughters; opening counsel to the varied states of the people. Thanksgiving was returned to the blessed Author of all good, to whom alone tribute is due.

30th of tenth month, first-day. At Bradford, a large crowded meeting, more than could get in, were assembled before we got to the house.

On looking over the people in taking my seat, perhaps I may safely say, my heart was touched with a measure of the same compassion, which our blessed Lord had on the multitude that followed Him into the wilderness. Strong were the desires raised in me, that their gathering might be to seek after Him, in his spiritual appearance, the true teacher and bishop of souls; which subject I had to open in gospel authority; great was the stillness and attention that appeared in the meeting, though many stood the whole time; and a secret hope attended, that the witness for Truth would be availingly raised in some minds.

On second-day, we were at West Cain, a poor meeting, almost worn out every way.

On third-day, at East Cain, much labour was extended; but did not seem to have that reach on some, which would have been grateful to feel; yet I trust the exercised part, were in some measure encouraged to hold on their way. On fourth-day morning we were at Willistown, a small meeting of Friends, but a large collection of other professors, among whom the gospel was preached, tending to bring to an acquaintance with the Spirit of Truth, through the manifestation thereof in every mind, as the only way to witness saving help. In the afternoon at Newtown, was a mixed gathering of careless professors, and of others who were exercised for the cause of Truth; that it required much care in dividing the word: but through the renewings of divine help, such as were waiting for the consolation of Israel, were encouragingly recommended to be often waiting in the temple; and floating minds were invited more steadily to seek an acquaintance with Truth, that good part that would never be taken from them.

On fifth-day at Springfield, was a large meeting of young people; some elders needed stirring up to more faithfulness in the discharge of duty towards God and man; the young people were closely expostulated with, and strongly recommended to become of the humble, whom the Lord would teach of his ways.

On sixth-day, at Merion, I had a time of close labour, setting forth the religious duty of parents, to children and those placed under their care, in endeavouring by example and precept to acquaint them with the principle of Truth; for lack of such a care many when seen in the vision of light, resemble those spoken of by the prophet, when he saw Israel scattered on the mountains, like sheep having no Shepherd. This appeared to be much the state of the meeting in a general way; yet I had to believe that a few were preserved, desirous to walk consistently with the profession we make, and to support the testimony thereof; such were encouraged to hold on their way, and not to cast away their confidence in the sufficiency of that divine power, which can yet heal breaches, and restore paths to walk in.

We got to Philadelphia that evening, in company with several Friends who came to meet us, by whom I was informed, the meeting we had been at was once large, and in a flourishing state, lively in the best things; but of late years had greatly declined.

On third-day evening, 8th of eleventh month, was a meeting for the black people, towards the close of which I had some close remarks to make to them, fearing their different situation in regard to the outward, from many of their sorely afflicted race, had not had the effect desired by many minds who were nearly concerned on their account. They were tenderly yet earnestly recommended to greater circumspection, and care in life and conduct; and to watch over one another for good.

On seventh-day, we attended the select quarterly meeting at Concord, a season mercifully owned by the head of the church, who engaged some of his servants in close plain communication, among that part of the body, which appeared to be well received; a humble trust was raised that it would be to some, as bread cast on the water. At this meeting we had the unexpected, but acceptable company, of my valued fellow-labourer John Wigham. In going to our lodgings I observed many small houses, inhabited by workmen employed in iron-works, belonging to the Friend to whose house we were going; and feeling the spring of gospel love flow towards them, I inquired if there was a place where a meeting could be had with them next evening; to which the Friend readily resigned his own house, and took care to have general notice given.

13th of eleventh month, first-day morning. We attended the meeting at Concord, an exercising time, both in silence and in public labour. We returned in time for the meeting before mentioned, at which dear John Wigham and some other Friends met us. Through the renewed compassion of Israel’s Shepherd, counsel and encouragement was opened, and the gospel preached to the poor. The tribute of thanksgiving was returned to the Lord, who is everlastingly worthy.

On second and third-days, we were at the quarterly and youths’ meetings, wherein several servants and handmaids, were exercised in communicating caution and counsel, to the different states of the people; and a hope was raised, that through the continuation of heavenly regard, it might by some be remembered to profit. We parted with several Friends, in much nearness of spirit, and took several meetings, the last at Reading, a very small one of Friends; but many of the town’s people coming in, it was an open time of labour; though in close expostulation, tending to advance the pure principle of Truth above every shadowy performance, name, or profession of religion, as the only means of salvation to man.

20th of eleventh month, first-day. At Maiden creek; in the early part of the meeting, a sense of that emphatical declaration, “Holiness becomes the Lord’s house,” was opened in my view; and though little more than a lively impression was received, I felt it right to stand up with it, having a comfortable hope, there were those present, who understood the meaning of it, both within and without, so that all their ways were to be ordered of Him. To such the language of encouragement went forth; yet others seemed much in the mixture, so as scarcely to understand the preaching of the gospel—that upon the whole it was a trying labour; but feeling the evidence of peace I was strengthened therein.

Early on second-day morning, we began our journey towards the mountains, two kind Friends accompanying us, who provided a change of horses, and some other necessaries. We had very poor cold lodgings the first night; the second we did much better, and on fourth-day evening, got well to Muncy, a settlement of Friends; we attended their meeting on fifth-day, in the early part of which, my mind was impressively opened to see what it was in the creature, that stood opposed to the will of the Creator; that it was the divine power alone that could subject, and give resignation, and enable to overcome all that stood in the gainsaying nature, as there was a co-working with its operation. On this deeply interesting subject, my tongue was loosened to speak, I humbly trust, as the Spirit gave utterance.

We went to dine with a family who seemed to have all in possession, but the one thing needful, which I had felt it so forcibly my duty to impress upon the minds of all, as the pearl of great price. My spirit was secretly oppressed while with them; and finding no way for relief, I was glad to return to our lodgings, where the heads of the family felt to me, to be labouring after a growth in the Truth, and desirous to bring up their innocent children consistently therewith: a young woman was also there, to whom we felt much love.

On sixth-day afternoon, we had a meeting at Fishing creek, rather a suffering time; yet I felt nearly united in the seed, to a lowly, tried remnant. Next morning we set out very early, having sixteen miles of rough road to Catawassa, and the river Susquehanna to cross, which was so full of ice that it was difficult to get the boat along. Some Friends were detained more than an hour at the water side, but, through providential care, all got safe, and I was glad I attended that monthly meeting, feeling much dipped into sympathetic labour; and I had to communicate such counsel as was opened, which afforded relieving quiet. In returning to our lodgings, the air was so piercing, as almost to deprive me of breath, and it was some time before the shivering ceased—that Friends seemed afraid it would become an ague, a complaint prevalent in the country; but through favour it went off.

27th of eleventh month, first-day morning. We went to Roaring creek, sat a pretty large meeting there, a time of close exercise, both in silence and while led to open counsel, caution, and encouragement; yet it was so far relieving, that I felt at liberty to descend the mountains; and through favour we got safe back to Maiden creek, on third-day afternoon, which felt cause of humble thankfulness to the great Preserver of men.

Next day we attended their monthly meeting, and had cause rejoicingly to believe it was in best wisdom our lot was again cast among Friends there. On fifth-day, at Exeter, on sitting down and entering into silent retirement, I was made somewhat sensible of the opening of life; but how painfully did it get closed up, through the too ready admittance of ease and luke-warmness, by many who profess the Truth as it is in Jesus. I found it my place, towards the latter part of the meeting, low and tried as I was, to speak of things as I felt them, in near sympathy with the wrestling seed; and was favoured to feel some relief thereby.

On sixth-day, at Potts-Town, we attended what is called an indulged meeting, i. e, one not fully established. It was a season, which the gracious Shepherd of Israel owned, in manifesting his renewed lovingkindness to his little ones.

4th of twelfth month, first-day. At Richland, a large particular, and also a monthly meeting; too many appeared unconcerned about the weight and importance of what they met together for, by their conduct expressing more care how to accommodate the body, than to profit the mind. I had to labour closely among them, and through a faithful discharge of duty, felt relief: my soul was prostrated before the throne of grace, that the faith of the mourners in Zion might be increased; that the hope of the righteous might not fail, but that their trust might be renewed in the sufficiency of that power, which is not of us, but of God.

At Gwynedd, on third-day, a large gathering, for lack of the foremost rank taking their proper places, was long in settling into that quietude becoming religious occasions; but as my mind was engaged to labour after that stillness, wherein the Lord is known to be God, the interesting salutation of the apostle was livingly opened in my view: Grace mercy and peace from God the Father, through our Lord Jesus Christ, be with your spirits: Amen.

This, from its remaining impressively, attended with a secret prayer, that that meeting might be found worthy of the like blessing, it became my duty to communicate. Many things were opened, I humbly trust, in the light of Truth, and under gospel authority, to the different states of the people; yet it was rather a season of digging and pruning, than of finding many plants ready for the watering. But I was instructively impressed, that I must be a faithful labourer in the discharge of duty, and content with my wages.

On fourth-day, we were at the Valley, a small exercising meeting; on fifth-day, at Plymouth, in the early part, my mind was gathered into a humbling feeling, that our great Creator was graciously waiting on the workmanship of His hand for good, to enable mankind to become acquainted with the measure of his own gift in themselves; in grateful acknowledgement whereof, I was led to bear testimony; and from the relieving peace afforded to my own mind, I felt a sustaining hope, that the witness for Truth was raised in many present.

On sixth-day, at Providence, I was early impressed, that it was eternal life to the soul, which all mankind stood in need of; on which subject I was opened, to point out the way whereby it might be experienced; and I humbly trust, through best help, many were made measurably to feel the truths of the gospel.

After a religious opportunity in a Friend’s family, we proceeded towards Radnor. On seventh-day, was a large meeting there, wherein I was dipped into suffering, in silent travail with the seed oppressed in many minds, not feeling any expectation I should be able to gain relief, until the gentle movings of life, accompanied the revival of the gracious promise formerly given: “Because you have kept the word of my patience, I also will keep you from the hour of temptation;” and the language of encouragement went forth to the sincere-hearted; yet on the whole it was a very exercising time, and there was not so much relief gained, as at some other seasons.

11th of twelfth month, first-day. At Haverford, many assembled not of our religious profession. It was a season of searching labour, in close expostulation and caution, against a spirit of unbelief, and everything that tends to separate from the divine harmony. I had much greater openness to declare the truths of the gospel, than the day before; and my mind was renewedly humbled in thankfulness to the Author of all good, for his unspeakable gift to the children of men. We reached Philadelphia that evening, and attended the morning meeting of ministers and elders next day; in the afternoon, had a religious opportunity in a Friend’s family, and in the evening, one with many Indians of two different tribes, collected at a Friend’s house.

Several expressed their gratitude to the good Spirit, and wished to have in writing what they had heard, that they might communicate it to their brethren, when they returned home: after a pause in silence I told them, through an interpreter, if the good Spirit should put any thing further into my mind towards them, I would endeavour to comply with their request; which I did a few days after.

We stayed in Philadelphia nearly four weeks; in which time we visited several who were ill and infirm, also some of the schools, and attended about thirty religious meetings. In the last, for children, about seven hundred were supposed to be present, who are in some sort under Friends’ care, in obtaining learning, though the greater part are not members. Much salutary counsel and caution was communicated to them and others, from several Friends, which I hoped might profitably impress some of their minds.

Chapter X

- Conclusion of her first visit to America.

- 1797.

On leaving Philadelphia, we crossed the river Delaware in our wagon on the ice, accompanied by our valued friend Samuel Smith; and after taking some other meetings, we were on 15th of first month, first-day, at Woodbury.

The people of other societies being informed that strangers were there, the meeting was very large; and through the renewings of holy help, I humbly trust, the gospel was preached, reaching the witness in many minds. On second-day, we returned to the city, and after attending three meetings for worship there, and three monthly meetings for ministers and elders, we went to Germantown, where we again met my nearly united fellow-labourer John Wigham. At the close of a meeting with Friends next morning, I was impressed with a concern, to have another in the evening, for those not professing with us, which was fully attended, and I trust mercifully regarded by the compassionate Father.

5th of third month, first-day. We were at a meeting at Moorestown, which was largely attended by those not professing with us, to whom the gospel was preached, in the renewed ability which Truth furnishes. On third-day we got to Philadelphia again, where further labour presented various ways, with much openness for it, both in public and private.

The latter end of this month, in the general spring meeting for ministers and elders, (since discontinued,) my valued fellow-labourer John Wigham, informed Friends of his prospect of being nearly released from further service in these parts, and obtained testimonials from them, of near concurrence with his acceptable labours. But the time did not appear to be come for me to give the like information, which felt no small trial to the natural part; yet I found resignation was the way to peace. During our stay in the city, in company with several other Friends, we paid two visits to the prisoners, going to some in their cells, and others more at large. We had cause to hope the witness of Truth was raised in many minds, and that, through true repentance and amendment of life, their sins would be forgiven.

The 16th of fourth month, first-day. Under the renewed humbling prevalence of our Heavenly Father’s love, which unites his flock and family wherever scattered, we parted with our near and dear friends there, having again with us our valued companion Joseph Whitall.

We went to Burlington, from which we were accompanied by our much esteemed friend John Hoskins, to Shrewsbury quarterly meeting, the several sittings whereof were times of close searching labour indeed; but in the upright discharge of duty, I was favoured with a renewed portion of that precious legacy, our blessed Lord left with his immediate followers: (see John 14:27) From there we went to Plainfield, where on second-day afternoon, we had a large satisfactory meeting. We got to New York on third-day evening; and early next morning crossed the river to Flushing, on Long Island; the quarterly meeting for ministers and elders beginning at ten. A renewal of strength to labour in the several sittings was furnished, much to the relief of my own mind, and I believe the satisfaction of Friends. We then proceeded to take the rest of the meetings as follows: Cowneck, Westbury, Jerico, Matinicock, Bethphage, Hollow-hills and Newtown, visiting some who were sick in their families; and we felt united to the faithful labourers of every class. Through divine favour we got safe back to New York on sixth-day evening.

7th of fifth month, first-day. In both meetings, I was strengthened publicly to labour in the discharge of duty. On third-day our nearly united friend and companion Joseph Whitall left us to return home; my prospect being to stay mostly in the city, till the yearly meeting. During this time we visited some who were indisposed, and several Friends’ families as way opened; and attended a small meeting at West Chester, where were many not professing with us; some, as I was afterwards informed, were great men, two of them judges, of what is called the Supreme Court; but the Great Judge of all the earth being near to help, I was enabled to discharge my duty, so that I trust His cause did not suffer; but that His holy name was magnified before the people.

During the yearly meeting, great was the travail of my spirit, that tenderly visited minds among the younger part of our Society, might not take up a rest in any outward form, however supported by tradition; or have any bonds laid upon them, other than through the influence of His pure Spirit, who remains to be the infallible teacher, and who declared his yoke to be easy, and his burden light; and blessed be His name, those who like Him are meek and lowly of heart, will assuredly find rest to their souls.

On sixth-day evening the yearly meeting concluded. Next day we parted with many brethren and sisters, in the nearly uniting cement of gospel fellowship.

4th of sixth month, first-day. We stayed the morning meeting, and on returning to our lodgings, I felt the secret arising of gospel love towards the servants, in the family, though not members of our Society; and in giving up thereunto, could feelingly bear testimony, that as is the soul of the master, so is the soul of the servant, in His sight who is no respecter of persons. It was a contriting season; and in much tenderness at parting, they wished the Lord might bless us. Many Friends coming in, the heart-tendering love of our Heavenly Father was again felt, and his great and holy name supplicated for the continuance of his preserving power, that it might be round about His heritage; and that his grace might be manifested to be sufficient, in every trying season. Being thus renewedly favoured to partake of the wine of His kingdom, the tribute of thanksgiving and praise was offered; for unto Him it belongs, both now and forever.

We then took a tender and solemn leave, and embarked for Rhode Island, in company with our valued friend Charity Cook, from South Carolina, and several other Friends. We sailed about fifteen leagues that night, when a thick fog coming on, we cast anchor. About midnight the wind blew very hard, accompanied with thunder, lightning, and heavy rain, which appeared awful, our situation considered; but, in humble confidence that we were under the notice of Israel’s Shepherd, my mind was favoured to be stayed upon Him. About two o’clock, the storm abating, we weighed anchor, and through divine favour, got to Newport before six in the evening without being much tried with sickness.

The different sittings of the yearly meeting for New England, were seasons of heavy exercise, yet, through divine help, a little strength was renewed, to labour with other concerned brethren and sisters, for right order in the discipline of the church; and a general concurrence prevailed, that their meetings beginning at an earlier hour, would tend to more profit; and the ninth was concluded upon instead of the eleventh; which, for the cause’s sake, was relieving to my mind; the heat having been frequently so oppressive at that late hour, that the body was scarcely able to support its feelings, and the best life was thereby greatly borne down; and nothing could be advanced for the continuance of that late hour, but the bias of old custom, which many exercised members were religiously engaged to break through.

We stayed the week-day meeting, and on sixth-day, after a humbling opportunity with several young people at our lodgings, we went to Portsmouth; and next day to New Bedford, in company with my valued fellow-helper John Wigham. My dear companion having been absent from her near connections two years, and preserved through many trials, both within and without, her being now favoured to return in usual health, was cause of mutual thankfulness to the blessed Author of all good.

18th of sixth month, first-day morning.—Our Divine Master graciously condescended to own us together, in our religious approaches before Him; which, with the quiet retreat after attending so many large gatherings, was peculiarly grateful. On seventh-day we went on board the packet with many other Friends, to attend the quarterly meeting at Nantucket; the several sittings whereof were times of heavy exercise, though in one of the meetings for discipline I got some relief. I stayed a week longer on the island, and attended other meetings that came in course, wherein the life of truth was mournfully low; and my spirit was much exercised in silent travail, and in sympathy with the few living members, though the number in each meeting seemed so small, as scarcely to be able to bear the weight of the dead. We left a Friend there visiting families; and though there appeared little fruit from former labours of that sort, I was willing to hope it might tend to stir up the pure mind in some, and quicken others to more diligence in the most important business.

Having sometime felt my mind drawn, to see Friends once more of Salem monthly meeting, on the 8th of eighth month, I set out with my beloved companion, and went there. We paid a religious visit to a Friend confined by illness, and returned with Friends to Lynn, where the monthly meeting was largely attended, and proved a relieving season, though a time of close labour, in trying to awaken those who were at ease; but much encouragement was handed to the exercised part of the family.

A meeting being appointed for us at Boston next day, we attended it. Though on our sitting down, my spirit was deeply exercised under a weight of discouragement, so as almost to repent of our coming, yet, by sinking low and waiting in patience, I was preserved in humble dependence on the Lord. After some time several not of our Society came in, who appeared to be of the higher rank, and one, if not more, I understood afterwards, was of the order of Priests. He that is mighty opened counsel, tending to raise his own blessed principle of light and life, above all outward forms; and true gospel ministry over that which is attained by man, through any other channel.

At Bedford monthly meeting, held 22nd of eighth month, I had a further relieving opportunity of opening counsel, as my mind was religiously impressed with it. Great indeed had been my solicitude for the welfare of every class, appertaining to the flock and family; being strengthened to believe, that if several peculiarly visited minds, are found faithful in the discharge of their duty, rendering to God and man their due, the present and rising generation, will become more and more like a field which the Lord has blessed.

In the evening at my lodgings, when various Friends were present, my heart was renewedly humbled, under a sense of our Heavenly Father’s love, uniting like bone unto bone, in the spiritual kindred, of which I had to make some mention, in much contrition of spirit; also to commemorate the time of my first entering their borders, when a baptism as unto death was witnessed, and every pleasant picture so marred, that I seemed unable even in the common line of affection, to love those, I had before known and loved. Read this, fellow traveller, you that can! and know thereby, that times and seasons are in the Lord’s hand; and the return thereof is to be waited for in the abasedness of self. Then shall we be strengthened, in the ability received of Him, in all His dispensations to rejoice evermore, to pray without ceasing; and in everything to give God thanks.

Next morning I was enabled to part cheerfully with some, who seemed to feel as near to me as my natural life; indeed I fully believe, united in that fellowship that will last beyond time; and, accompanied by my beloved companion, her father, brother and sister, went to Providence, where we attended meeting next day.

On sixth-day the two latter returned home, and our kind friends Moses and Mary Brown, went the first stage with us towards the city of Hartford, in Connecticut. We lodged at a tavern there on seventh-day night, at which the people appeared well disposed; so that way opened to have some religious conversation with them, and to leave some books, which were gladly accepted.

27th of eighth month, first-day morning. We sat meeting with the newly convinced Friends at West Hartford, with whom we had been two years before. I was thankful to feel they had made some progress in the way and work of Truth, wherein I had to encourage and bid them God’s speed. At four in the afternoon, a meeting was appointed about a mile distant, for those not of our Society; which was largely attended. Soon after taking my seat, the word of life accompanied the opening of this passage, recorded in the Scriptures of Truth: “I am the Lord your God, which teaches you to profit, which leads you by the way you should go:” and it became my religious duty to revive it. Through the renewings of Holy help, the gospel was preached, and the pure truth exalted beyond all forms.

On second-day morning early we pursued our journey, not making any other stop in a religious line, than to have conversation with serious individuals and to leave some books. So peaceful a release from more extensive labours in this part of the vineyard, was rather unexpected to me; my mind, in first passing through Connecticut, having felt much exercised on account of the people—the disposition of whom is greatly altered towards our Society, and there is now an open door to labour, where a spirit of opposition and persecution in earlier times, had strongly barred the way. My desire was to stand in entire resignation to the Divine will, and this at present appeared the accepted offering in his sight; whether He may see fit, in any future day, to call me again to labour there, or on any part of this continent, remains among his hidden things; but all within me craves that His holy will may be done, and that every day I live may be unto Him, in entire subjection and dedication of will.

With close travelling we got to Friends’ meeting at Purchase, in York State, on fourth-day, which proved a satisfactory one, where we unexpectedly met our valued friends John and Catharine Murray, of New York; with whom we returned to the city next day, after attending the meeting at Mamaroneck, which was a time of close labour, in laying judgment to the line of the transgressing nature, and in feeling with and for the oppressed seed. After a religious opportunity in a Friend’s family, we went on to New York, and got safely there late in the evening. Here we received affecting accounts, of the yellow fever having broken out again in Philadelphia; but feeling my mind pressed forward to pursue the prospect in view, we proceeded to Rahway, in New Jersey, on seventh-day.

3rd of ninth month, first-day.—We sat two meetings with Friends and others, which through Divine favour, proved relieving seasons: and in the evening I was particularly refreshed, under a fresh sense of the gracious extendings of the love of Christ, when he told his immediate followers: “You are they which have continued with me in my temptations; and I appoint unto you a kingdom.” I had to make some mention of this for the encouragement of those present, to faithfulness in following the Lamb wheresoever he might lead; not so much with a view to any reward here or hereafter, as to manifest our obedience to his pure law, who is just in all his ways, and righteous in all his doings.

Next day we went to Mendham, and on third-day were at an appointed meeting there, in the early part whereof, the precious incomes of love and light appeared to be opening. My spirit suffered much hidden exercise for a considerable time, lest the Lord’s opportunity should be in any wise frustrated, through the unsettledness of the meeting in its long gathering, and some disturbance from young children; but through the dedication of my dear companion, in giving up to the pointings of duty, the door got a little opened for my standing on my feet; and through unmerited mercy, strength was given to preach the gospel to the poor, and to exalt the testimony of Truth above all opposition.

Being a fine moonlight evening we got safe back to Rahway about nine o’clock. Next day we visited several Friends in their families, and on fifth-day I was favoured with a further relieving time in their meeting, peculiarly towards the youth: also in a parting opportunity with various Friends in the afternoon. We then went home with a Friend three miles into the country, where several came to see us next day; and before we separated in the evening, we were renewedly contrited together under a fresh sense of our Heavenly Father’s love, wherein I had to express a belief, it would be a season to be remembered, when the great deeps might divide us one from another outwardly.

10th of ninth month, first-day.—We attended meeting at Stony-brook, a time of close labour, having a threshing instrument to lift up against the transgressing nature in man; yet the language of encouragement went forth to the mourners in Zion; that such might so steadily hold on their way, as to know Him in whom they have believed, to be a covert from the heat and from the storm, and as the shadow of a mighty rock in a weary land.

The same evening about sunset we got to Nathan Wright’s, where I found my endeared friend, his wife, in better health than when we left her. I had for some days been weightily brought into feeling with Friends, under the solemn prospect of attending the yearly meeting in the city of Philadelphia, the disorder there making a more rapid progress; and some considerations occurred respecting the propriety of solid Friends meeting, and feeling together after the pointings of Truth, whether to hold it at the usual time, in the city, or at any other place, or to adjourn it to a future period. This I particularly wished two valuable Friends, who were under appointment as representatives from their quarterly meeting, and who had come with us from Rahway, to weigh in their minds; and if spared till morning I should be willing to accompany them to Burlington, to consult our elder brother John Hoskins and others, on a matter of so great importance.

The proposal appeared relieving to them, also to our friend William Rotch, who was dipped into much exercise on that account, he accompanying us. We had a solid conference together, the result whereof was, for J. H. to go next morning to Frankford, where some Friends who came out of the city had lodgings, to spread the matter farther, as way might open. The concern being thus far moved in, we returned in the evening to Nathan Wright’s, and the Friends from Rahway expressing great satisfaction in the steps taken, went homeward early next morning.

On fourth-day we attended Mansfield meeting, where, on taking my seat, my spirit was soon covered with solemnity, in secretly viewing the design of the Lord’s judgments being again on the earth; and strong were my secret cries to Him, that the inhabitants might thereby learn righteousness. My dear companion giving up to supplicate His holy name, under an impressive similar sense thereof, my way was made more easy to discharge my religious duty, in close expostulation; wherein our valued brother and fellow-labourer John Cox, who came there to meet and conduct us to his house, was a co-worker, and fellow-helper in the Lord.

Next day we were at Burlington, where many families of Friends from the city were residing, on account of the malignant fever; among whom I had again to labour after a close manner, to remind them of the only refuge for the righteous, and that those who are living in a state of forgetfulness of God, not remembering their latter end, would be in great danger of not finding this sure hiding place in the day of trouble; in which line of labour our before mentioned friend and brother, was led nearly to unite, bearing further testimony thereunto; so that, as formerly, it might be hoped, “that in the mouth of two or three witnesses, every word may be established.” However, whether those that hear will obey or not, it becomes stewards to be found faithful, and such as the Lord anoints for watchers on the walls of Zion, not to keep silence, when his voice says: “Cry.”

Next morning we set out to attend the conference which Friends had concluded should be held at Frankford; to which place I can truly say, I moved forward under great weightiness of spirit; and on taking my seat there, the desire of my heart was granted, in feeling myself as one without purse, or scrip, or change of dress; that the fresh impression and sense of Truth then opened, might be singly and solely my director, if I should have any sentiment to drop in that opportunity.

The conclusion to hold the yearly meeting in the city at the usual time, was neither unexpected nor uneasy to me; indeed any thought or part I had taken on my own account was very small, compared to the exercise I had been dipped into, for many tender-spirited Friends in the country, who I believed, were as much concerned for, and dedicated to, the cause of Truth, as those who had felt themselves bound to stay in the city; but who, from the numerous inhabitants of it fleeing through their borders, and the affecting accounts daily brought, that the disorder was spreading, looked upon themselves somewhat as sheep preparing for the slaughter, in attending the yearly meeting there at that time.

May I never outlive the season of fellow-feeling with members in suffering, from whatever cause it may arise; for I believe this will never have a tendency to shake the confidence of any, in Divine superintendence, and the all-sufficiency of the Lord’s Arm to preserve; while it may bow them to the root, and like accepted Gideon, bring them to try the fleece, both wet and dry. I wish the number of such to increase in many other matters of importance, as well as the present; for then I believe fewer would move on the shallow waters, or confide in the form or profession of Truth, short of the power, which is of God, and not of man. We went home with Nicholas Wain, who resided at Frankford; and in the evening had a tendering opportunity, in addressing one of his sons. I was also on my own account desirous to know, and do, what was right, in regard to my religious movements, in this critical and trying juncture; that nothing might move me on the right hand or on the left, short of the secret intimation of His pure Spirit; which I have much cause to believe I was mercifully favoured with, in directing my course to the city.

17th of ninth month, first-day morning.— We attended Market street meeting, and my way was opened to labour among the remnant that was left, as also at the North house, in the afternoon. Friends at both places expressed their gladness to see me; particularly some, who had, through mistake, been informed that I did not feel liberty to come among them, even to attend the yearly meeting, on account of the prevailing disease; but so far from having had any such sentiment, when favoured to feel the pointings of Truth to direct my course, my mind was preserved both from terror and fear; yet I humbly crave, both for myself and others, a careful seeking after that wisdom, which dwells with prudence; and not to run unhidden, through any presumption of the creaturely will.

On second-day we attended the monthly meeting at Frankford, I was engaged to encourage and strengthen Friends to stand faithful in their testimony against wrong things, even in their nearest connections, and thereby to manifest they loved Truth above all. That evening we went to Byberry, and next morning, in our way to Abington, called to visit a beloved Friend, and fellow-labourer in the work of the ministry, who was brought into a very weak state through bodily illness, so that her recovery was doubtful. We were humbled and comforted together, under a fresh, sense of our Heavenly Father’s love, of which she expressed a grateful and thankful feeling. We then proceeded to a meeting appointed on account of a burial there, wherein gospel truths were opened, in close expostulation among those gathered, many of whom appeared much unacquainted with the way and work of truth; yet I trust some feeling minds were encouraged to persevere in well doing, that thereby they might be made fit for the kingdom of heaven.

We had a religious opportunity in the Friends’ family where we dined, with whom I could feelingly sympathize, in the trial they had recently met with, of their only son, a hopeful youth, losing his life in the water. Our lodgings were at our kind friends S. and H. Fisher’s, who were residing at a country house, about four miles from Philadelphia; and next day they with us attended Pine street monthly meeting, wherein I had to believe that as sufficient for the day might continue the evil or trial of it, so by an indwelling with the pure seed, or word of life, renewal of strength in the inner man would be equally witnessed, in every afflictive dispensation, whether from within or without; some hints whereof I had to mention, for the encouragement of the poor in, spirit.

On fifth-day my dear companion, her father, and myself, again attended the meeting at Market street, and on sixth-day, a public one appointed at Germantown, where many came besides those of our religious Society; and I humbly trust, through holy help, the gospel was preached, and the great name of our God was praised.

On seventh-day morning the yearly meeting for ministers and elders began in the city— a solemn season indeed, wherein my spirit was early bowed to supplicate the Lord on high, that the courts of his house might be the hiding place of His Israel; where all would be preserved, in such childlike dependence upon Him, that self could have no room to boast of its own strength, or dare unworthily to judge those whose hearts might mediate terror, or through fear of taking the prevailing disease, did not assemble; and there was some cause to believe the petition was in a good degree answered. The religious state of Society, respecting that part of the body, was weightily entered into.

24th of ninth month, first-day.—The meetings for public worship were reported to be small, but solid, instructive, edifying seasons, which I fully believe was a just report; and it livingly sprang in my heart to express a sentiment then revived, as one part of the cause; that most who assembled, had felt deeper after their motives for coming, than when no uncommon obstruction appeared, and so had somewhat experienced a fulfilling of the declaration: “Every one shall be salted with fire, and every sacrifice salted with salt.” The women’s meeting opened as usual at Market street, and though very small, I thought not more than a tenth part of the number that assembled the year before, it was favoured with much solemnity, under which covering the affairs of the Society were entered into; and I trust it will be safe to say, were conducted in the wisdom of Truth. In the afternoon a Friend from the men’s meeting came to inform us, that they had adjourned to the large part of the North house, being in a district of the city in which the disorder had not made so much progress; which was acceptable tidings to some of us, the desire of being near together having previously prevailed.

Our meeting accordingly met next morning in the small part, which was much more than sufficient to hold us, on the ground floor. In the second sitting of the select meeting, the certificates of our friend Gervas Johnson, from Ireland, were read, and much sympathetic encouragement spread towards him; after which it appeared to be the time to open my prospect to Friends, of having a peaceful release to return to my native land, when the yearly meeting was over, if life and health permitted; and some were appointed to prepare a certificate respecting me, which was brought to the next sitting; and appearing to be cordially united with, was signed by the clerk. Our closing select opportunity was on fifth-day morning, when, through the fresh extendings of our Heavenly Father’s love, our spirits were contrited, and enabled to say farewell! in the Lord.

After this was held the meeting for worship at Market street, in which, almost on taking my seat, the word of life arose in me to say: “Fear not, daughter of Zion, behold your King Comes, meek and lowly, etc.” on which subject I was enlarged, much to the relief of my own mind, and I trust to the encouragement of many present. Several of my fellow-labourers were also engaged to preach the gospel. This was the last public meeting I was at in the city: and I believe will be remembered as a solemn one, to many minds. The remaining sittings of the women’s meeting were weighty: the holy Head of the Church being near, strengthened to labour, for the help and edification thereof; also to part from one another on sixth-day, 29th of ninth month, under the humbling sense of the prevalency of His heart-tendering love; wherein His holy name was praised, who is eternally worthy.

After contriting religious opportunities in several families, we left the city; and on the way to our lodgings in the country, called to take leave of our endeared friend, Rebecca Jones, who was under the weight of bodily indisposition; with whom, and the Friend she was with, we were again favoured with the precious ownings of Heavenly regard; and thereby I trust enabled as formerly, to put one another forward after a godly sort.

On seventh-day morning, we proceeded on our way to New York; from which a prospect had previously opened, that I might embark. We called to take leave of the widow of our worthy friend John Pemberton, with whom, and her sister Sarah Zane, we had a religious opportunity, as we had also at our friend M. F.’s, where we dined, several families of their connections being present; among whom were some tender plants of our Heavenly Father, who had often felt, and now at parting did feel in a peculiar manner, very near to my natural and spiritual life.

We got well to New York, where to our comfort we found that my endeared fellow-labourer John Wigham, had returned from Nova Scotia, in order to embark for our native land.

Having a prospect of taking passage in the ship Severn, bound for Liverpool, we went on board, and found our minds easy to engage places therein; our friends Charity Cook and Mary Swett, going on a religious visit to Europe, intending to embark with us; also E. W. returning home. During our stay, we attended meetings as they came in course, and one appointed for the black people.

On second-day evening, our farewell opportunity took place, with many I dearly loved in the Truth, and I trust was nearly united to therein, particularly my endeared companion and her worthy father, with our very kind friends John Murray and wife, and their dear children; but had renewedly to experience bitter cups to nature and spirit sweetened, through the humbling, yet strengthening influence, of our Heavenly Father’s heart-tendering love; in which we were enabled to greet, and bid one another farewell! May his ever worthy name be praised, by all his called and chosen children, is the renewed fervent prayer of my heart.

Chapter XI

- Her voyage from America.

17th of tenth month, 1797.—I embarked with the dear Friends before mentioned, and when the loved objects of tender regard had left us, and were no longer to be seen, after a little retirement, I was fully employed in helping to arrange matters, for the accommodation of my dear friends and fellow passengers. Mary said, it did her good to see me so lively, but feared I should be overdone. I told her I was doing that then, which perhaps I could not do tomorrow; and so it proved, for towards evening the ship began to roll, and my head somewhat to roll with it, that I was glad to return to bed. The wind has been rough, and sometimes a-head, yet we got along pretty well in a tossing way.

On seventh-day afternoon, we were somewhat alarmed by the appearance of a frigate at some distance; which chased us, and fired several times, so the captain lay to. She proved English, going to the West Indies; the captain came on board, examined the ship papers, and then returned to his own vessel. I felt a good deal tried when I first heard the report, but was soon favoured to remember, that One mightier than man rules; and my dependence became more firm upon the right support, and fortitude was replaced; for which I felt thankful. It was also strengthening to know, that I had fellow servants on board; though our weapons were not carnal, the hope was revived that they would be found mighty through God, to sustain in the needful time.

I have not been in the cabin since the day we came into the ship, but hear and see enough, to make me sympathize with my beloved brother J. Wigham, who is nearly surrounded by sons of folly; though they behave pretty civilly as men, but appear to have as little claim to Christianity as most I have met with, that don’t esteem themselves among the profane. Dear Mary Swett I am informed, has given them a little counsel once or twice, which seemed to have no other effect, than to raise ridicule in some of them, and in none more than an Englishman, who declares himself an Universalist.

The captain is civil and attentive, and I believe would be more so, if he had not such a company about him, towards whom he seems readily to yield. The mate appears a steady man; and the sailors as quiet as most I have known.

How different our situation to what it was in the Barclay, when fellow-helpers made way for, and loved to come together to wait upon the Lord, for the renewal of strength; and when, as iron sharpens iron, so did our countenances one another’s! We have such a company now, that no way seems to open for even the little band coming together. On first and second-days, we went most of the time nine knots an hour before the wind, with only three sails up, and the sea running high, tossing and rolling almost incessantly.

On fifth-day, the clouds gathered, the wind was very high, and the sea dashed over the vessel, more than any day before; which verified the impression I had pleasantly mentioned to Charity Cook, before its coming on. In the evening, I sat up a little, and was favoured to witness the beloved of my soul coming to his temple; (truly his reward is with Him!) contriting my spirit, and enlarging my heart in his love, which sweetly flowed towards my beloved friends on both sides the great deep; who seemed brought near, in a manner scarcely to be expressed: my soul was poured forth in prayer, for the flock and family of our God wherever scattered; and faith renewed, that the little band within this trying enclosure, would in his own appointed season, be safely conducted to the desired port; in which hope I retired to bed.

On seventh-day, I sat about an hour in the cabin; some of the company professed to be glad to see me, said I was a great stranger, etc. I told them I did not know but I should have oftener come a little, but they made so much noise, laughing and talking, that my head had enough of it in my own apartment. One of the young men from Carolina, made some excuse, alleging that there were many of them, and sometimes conversing on subjects they did not well understand; and so the matter ended, for they seem so much strangers to serious things, that little ground can be gained by expostulation; and I believe it is best to labour for patience to have its perfect work.

29th of tenth month, first-day.—The vessel going with a steady motion from five to seven knots an hour. About half past ten, our little band went into the cabin and sat down quietly together. I believe some of the young men were aware of our motive; one of the elder, and if possible more light and talkative than the rest, kept asking them questions, till Mary Swett said something to them, and they became more still, but did not wholly refrain from conversing. I was favoured with an inward quietude, attended with a secret hope, that Truth would rise so as to gain some present victory.

Soon after dear Charity Cook appeared in solemn and reaching supplication; she had also something further in close testimony, during which time they were quiet. Then did the secret fire kindle in my heart, and I had to seal and strengthen what had gone before; and to speak to the elderly man in particular, of the example he set the younger, telling them plainly, that nothing short of becoming the followers of Christ, would make us Christians; to the truth of which some of them openly acknowledged.

What cause of thankfulness have those, who are taught in a different school, to become the followers of Christ in the regeneration, and who as dear children, unfeignedly desire to serve him, according to the manifestation of His holy will.

On deck a little after dinner; the sea very smooth, scarcely any wind. The mate thought we did not get forward at all; I reminded him, what daily dependent beings we are, on a power superior to that of man; which I believe he had a mind capable of acknowledging.

Third-day.—Unstable is the element we are upon; the calm was succeeded by what I have been ready to call a storm; however, we get fast on our way, which is a comfort. On fourth-day, the sea ran very high, broke over the quarter deck, and the companion doors. By the log we have come one hundred and thirty-six leagues, in forty-eight hours. Last night, one of the yard-arms was taken away, but no other damage done that I have heard of.

Fifth-day. — The ship still keeps rolling, though we have not gone so fast today, as for some time past. I have felt rather more relieved from bodily trials: my brother J. Wigham thinks I am abundantly better this voyage, than before. He is not so well, which I marvel not at, his surrounding shipmates being of such a different class. Dear Charity Cook is much the best sailor of us three women, and frequently visits me, when she can get across the stairs. The present state of my mind is well suited to my situation; for I feel it no trial to be much alone, and in silence; yet have no desire to be thus living to myself, when the All-wise disposer of events, sees fit it should be otherwise.

Sixth-day.—It was calm part of last night; but I awoke about four o’clock with the usual feelings, preceding a change: the wind soon blew hard, and the sea rose so high, that the main deck has been knee deep most part of the day; yet notwithstanding these commotions without, my mind has been favoured to feel as perfect a calm, as at any season I remember. The captain thinks we are about twenty degrees from Liverpool.

Seventh-day.—A very trying time indeed till the early part of this morning, when, for the first time, I felt a petition raised in my heart that bodily suffering might be mitigated by a stiller getting along; and though I dare scarcely think I am worthy that such a desire should be granted, I am thankful in knowing we had a very favourable day, so that I got into the cabin after five days retirement in my little dark apartment; for such it is, except when the lamps are lighted. Some of the passengers are ready to hope we shall land in a few days; but that I resign, and leave among the hidden things, not knowing what trials may yet overtake us.

5th of eleventh month, first-day.—I awoke from a trying dream, with thoughtful reflections; remembered it was the first-day, and considered how we should get together, and whether any of the ship’s company would be religiously desirous to sit with our little band; but all seemed wrapped up in such a mist, I could gather nothing from it; so concluded to leave it till nearer the hour. I was informed a ship of war was in view, with English colours, only little wind at the time, and that in their favour. The captain discovered it to be a French-built vessel. They presently boarded us, and showed themselves Frenchmen, not by any uncivil act, for they did not so much as fire a gun. When they came into the cabin, E. W. who was with me in my little room, thought if I would go it might have some reach upon them; to which I had no objection; for my mind was favoured, through Divine help, to witness much quiet resignation; and I entered the cabin with as much calmness as I had done at any time. I knew it was the Lord’s doing, thus to strengthen; and it was marvellous in my eyes, for I think no one can feel a greater trial either of nature or spirit, than the prospect of falling into the hands of unreasonable men, was to me.

Soon after I sat down, poor James, the cabin boy, who set up a lamentable cry when they came on board, followed: I called him to me, for I pitied the child, and in a whisper gave him some advice which seemed to quiet his agitated mind; and desired E. W. to tell the other Friends where I was, who presently came.

The men who examined the papers appeared about middle aged, and rather docile than hostile, and spoke English easy to be understood. They seemed satisfied respecting the vessel; said they were out on a three months cruise from Bourdeaux, had only met with three small vessels—were going towards the Western islands—and had forty days still to be out. Fearing their bread would fall short, they requested the captain would let them have some. After some consideration, most of the passengers appearing willing, he consented, letting them have as much biscuit as he could spare, and one cask of flour; for which they paid hard money.

When the boat returned with sacks for the bread, a young man came along with them, who had an innocent countenance, who could also speak English. He said we looked like the Nuns in France. I told him we were Friends or Quakers, and inquired if they had heard of such in their country. They replied, yes. I asked if they knew any there. They did not know of any yet, but believed they would some time. I further inquired if it was not very disagreeable to be sailing about on such business? whether it would not be much more pleasant to be tilling the land, and reaping the peaceable fruits of it, or following other useful employments? to all which they pleasantly answered in the affirmative, and thought peace was best for all. They asked us to certify at the bottom of the receipt for the money, that they had behaved civilly on board our vessel, which was done on behalf of the passengers and captain.

This event somewhat accounts for the cloudy prospect of our meeting, which was not obtained in a collective capacity; yet there is room to hope a small renewal of strength was felt in private retirement; and we were renewedly helped to bear the trials of the day, by hearing E. W read a part of the journal of Job Scott; which peculiarly sets forth his deep and manifold exercises, with his hope and confidence in God, through them all. Indeed, concerning what the Lord is pleased to allot to us for our refinement, it becomes every resigned follower to say: “Not my will, but yours, O Lord! be done.”

Second-day. A strong head wind and foaming sea, were our attendants last night, worse than any time before. I was very much tried with pain in my head and stomach, and could scarcely keep myself in bed, from the violent motion; but the trials of the night were followed by greater, and repeated ones in the day; a French privateer came up with us, and fired for us to lay to, which was done accordingly; when four men armed with cutlasses came on board, two of whom searched the cabin, while the others took our captain on board the privateer. We knew not for a time but he was taken close prisoner, and we soon likely to follow.

I believe our feelings at that time can scarcely be described; yet, through adorable mercy, all confidence in the unfailing arm of the Lord, was not lost; whereby I was enabled to sooth and encourage dear E. W. who sat by me weeping. I thought it was almost impossible for me to rise; but hearing that the man called the prize-master was searching our trunks, I went into the cabin, with the keys of mine in my hand, and what money I had; I thought I had hardly ever seen a man of more savage, or fierce appearance. My innocent fellow servants were all in the cabin. When I sat down, he asked if J. Wigham was my husband.

I told him no; but a fellow-labourer in the gospel of Christ, and that to preach it was the errand we had been upon in America; that we with the rest of the women, were of the people called Quakers, and that our peaceable principles were known in France. He made a reply, which I did not well understand, for he did not speak so good English as those who came yesterday, neither was his conduct or disposition at all like theirs; however, he did not ask for our keys, or do more than just lift the lid of J. Wigham’s chest; though he routed to the very bottom of several others, and took a very curious spy glass, and some other valuable articles from two of the passengers.

Just about this time the captain returned, said they were satisfied with his papers, and had given him liberty to proceed, which was very grateful information to us, but seemed much to disappoint the menacing usurper, who had repeatedly said, that by their laws all the English should be made prisoners; but he went off pretty quietly with his booty, to the great relief of our minds. To be in some measure tried after this manner, has not been altogether unexpected to me; my mind being invariably impressed with such a prospect before I left New York; and my greatest solicitude under these emotions was, that we might not be taken to the West Indies; which continued prayer of my heart, I yet hope will be mercifully granted; and though one woe is past, and another should be permitted to come quickly, yet I have a humble trust, that the Lord in his own time will deliver us out of them all.

Third-day morning. On waking early, my mind became seriously impressed with considerations on various subjects; under which I was led deeply to mourn over the fallen state of man, few appearing desirous to seek after, or accept the terms of redemption, though so freely offered by the Saviour of men.

Fourth-day. On waking I remembered it was our week-day meeting; and desires were raised, that our little band might retire together, to wait on the Lord for renewal of strength—which proposition was acceptable to those acquainted with silent waiting; but a little before the time for our meeting came, so great an alarm was again given to our ship’s company, there was no retirement for us in the cabin; so that my sister in tribulation came into my little room, and I believe we laboured after quietude, endeavouring to put our trusts again in the only sure Helper. A ship had been observed for some time at a distance, which appeared to follow us, and by her motion to be a ship of war; but a thick fog arose, and hid her from us two hours, when she was seen going to the southward; which tidings were thankfully received. This afternoon the top-gallant sail was carried away by the wind, which has been a-head four days.

Fifth-day. The wind still a-head. Last night and today the sea has run very high. This afternoon while Charity Cook was paying me a visit, the sea broke in so suddenly upon us, it seemed like the bursting of a water spout. When we had got things put to rights, we had a second attack as heavy as the first, which seemed to try our steward’s patience; but I had rather have two such swells every day, than see one French privateer.

Seventh-day. Yesterday and today nearly calm; the little wind we have continues a-head. This disappointment in our progress, I think, has had a tendency somewhat to quiet our too often noisy shipmates; but having been favoured not to have any additional trials from without, my mind is mercifully sustained with resignation and quietude; for which I desire to be thankful: also for being recruited in my bodily health; the rest of my companions are also partakers thereof.

12th of eleventh month. The ninth day since the wind has been a-head. Though to continue thus is not desirable, my mind is favoured with resignation to the All-wise disposer of events. My fellow sufferers and myself, retired religiously into the cabin this morning; but our desire of quietude was much interrupted by the unbecoming conduct of a young man. We were told before we sailed, that their company would not be agreeable to us, and more light and vain men than some of them are, I think could scarcely have been met with; that I never felt more strongly the force of that sentiment: “Silence is wisdom where speaking is folly;” wherein my brother in bonds cordially unites. We speak a little of our present and former situation on the great waters; and mournful indeed is the case, where the sons of men so strikingly manifest, that they are lovers of pleasure, more than of God; though it is to Him we owe our life, breath and being.

Fourth-day. On second-day the wind began to turn in our favour, and has continued gradually increasing. We are now within soundings; and from the top-mast, some parts of Ireland have been seen; which has much elated some of our company.

Sixth-day. From about eleven last night, we have had again a head wind, several of the company talk of trying to get ashore at Milford-haven, of which the captain thinks there may be a probability tomorrow, if the wind continues in the present state; and if all the male passengers go, except our brother, I believe they will have our free consent. The day being calm, and the sun shining very pleasantly— the face of the water so serene, that scarcely a bubble was visible—the mountains of Ireland and Wales in view, and several ships at a distance, our female band were longer on deck than at any other time.

Seventh-day. How great a change since yesterday. A strong wind and high swelling sea began last evening, and have continued all day. Our captain hoisted his colours about ten o’clock this morning for a pilot; but none has yet ventured to come to us. They suppose we are about thirty five miles from Liverpool.

19th of eleventh month, 1797, first-day. A very trying night indeed! all hands were on deck; there was so strong a gale that the ship was kept almost constantly on the tack to prevent her from going out to sea or running ashore. I felt much sympathy with the mariners, believing they were toiling hard, under much dismay—which proved to be the case; the captain said this morning he had wished us not to know the difficulty and danger we had been in: but I believe I was as sensible of it as if he had told me at the time; yet my hope and confidence in the preserving hand of Power were unshaken.

About day-break the wind abated; and a pilot soon came on board, but brought tidings that greatly disturbed some of the passengers, and one of them in a particular manner; informing us we were likely to perform quarantine. This report did not in the least move me; but a thankful sense of Providential care so filled my heart, that I could have proclaimed aloud the following tribute; “Rejoice oh you Heavens! and break forth into singing, all you that can praise the Lord, on the banks of deliverance.”

At ten o’clock we cast anchor about three miles from the town; and at twelve the health officer came on board, and said it was only vessels coming from Philadelphia, that they had orders to detain; but the wind or tide not serving, we did not go on shore till third-day; when we were all favoured to land safe. May gratitude and dedication to serve the Lord faithfully, ever be the clothing of my spirit.

I was three years, three weeks, and three days on the continent, and travelled about eleven thousand miles; and was so far favoured with bodily health, as not to miss one meeting appointed, or intended to be appointed; for which, and every other mark of unmerited favour, from the bountiful hand of Israel’s God, may my soul bow before Him, who lives forever and ever. Amen.

Chapter XII

- Her travels in England, and second voyage to America.

After my return home, many trials and exercises fell to my lot, fully known only to Him who sees in secret, and who can sanctify every allotted or permitted trial. And if through much tribulation we are made fit for the kingdom, the great and blessed end will be answered.

From this time I did not travel any long journey for some years; but after the yearly meeting, in 1800, I felt an opening prospect of visiting some meetings in the southern counties; and when the time appeared to be drawing near, I was about to address a young woman, an acceptable minister, on the subject of bearing me company; but the prospect I had had, seemed rather suddenly to close: and in waiting to know the Master’s will, the in-speaking voice was clear to my understanding; “You may resign the southern prospect, and look towards the north, and join my deeply tried handmaid Elizabeth Coggeshall.” I was not left in the least doubt respecting the intimation; so when our monthly meeting came on, I informed Friends what had been my prospect, and what it then was; and if united with, I wished it might be mentioned, that my concern was to join the said Friend from a sense of religious duty; which was accordingly inserted in my certificate.

I received a letter from her dated at Ulverstone, stating that the Friend who had accompanied her for some weeks was so ill, that her recovery was very doubtful; and having no companion in view she was much dismayed; so in the twelfth month I met her at York.

She was then and during the remaining part of the journey, under deep exercise of mind, in which according to my measure I nearly partook with her; that the cement of our fellowship was much in suffering, and as I have found this to be as strong a bond of union, as any part of the gospel travail, so I trust the bond will not be broken through time. She took such meetings in her way to London, as she had not been at before; and after visiting those in that city, and being furnished with a certificate from the morning meeting, as a committee of the yearly meeting of ministers and elders, we returned northward, and in the latter end of the fourth month, 1801, I went with my endeared friend and companion, on board the vessel about four miles from Liverpool, in which she embarked for her native land.

Several months before leaving America, the mind of Martha Routh appears to have been attracted homeward, under painful apprehensions of the approach of a domestic affliction, which afterwards fell out as she had anticipated.

On this occasion she conceived the returning home, pretty speedily, to be the most proper step; and she entered into covenant with her Heavenly Father, that if He would be pleased to permit her return to her outward habitation, and should afterwards call her forth to labour further in that part of the vineyard, she would, through his renewed assistance, obey His will. Accordingly, in about three years after her return, she informed her friends how it had been with her, and how it still remained, as to her going again to America.

Respecting this voyage she gives the following brief account:

I felt more easy to be certified of, as going to reside in America for a while, than singly on the ground of religious duty as heretofore; because, being under the care of Friends there as a member, if preserved to keep my habitation in the Truth, I might obtain their certificate for any further religious movement that should open; and when the time appeared fully come, my certificate was, at my own request, addressed to the monthly meeting of Friends at New Bedford, in Massachusetts.

We (my husband and self) took our passage on board the Alleghany from Liverpool to New York, in company with our valued friends Charity Cook and Mary Swett, returning from their religious mission in Europe, a Friend from Liverpool, intending to settle in America, and a little orphan child, who descended from Friends. On this voyage, of which I sent an account to my cousin Susannah Hadwen of Liverpool, my spirit was often deeply wounded with the dark state of our captain, who had once been a member of our Society. After a passage of sixty-six days, we arrived safely at New York, where we were kindly received by our friends John and Catharine Murray; and after stopping some time we proceeded to New Bedford, where we were welcomed with the greatest cordiality.

In about three months after our arrival, my mind was much turned towards Friends’ school at Nine Partners, on account of which I had felt nearly interested in my first journey; and my former dear companion L. R., with her brother, accompanied me there, through a part of Connecticut, taking meetings as we passed along, till we came into the state of New York. We attended two quarterly meetings, and stopped about three weeks in that seminary; her brother leaving us there, to attend the yearly meeting at Philadelphia, where he had opportunity to be at the burial of my endeared fellow-labourer Sarah Stephenson. He again met us near the time of the yearly meeting at New York; which having lately been the field of that beloved Friend’s gospel labour, was a very solemn and interesting season.

We then journeyed towards New Bedford, taking meetings as our way opened; and to find my husband and the families favoured with health, was cause of renewed thankfulness.

In this little journey we travelled about seven hundred miles. The yearly meeting on Rhode Island coming on soon afterwards, I attended it, in company with several of W. Rotch’s family, with whom I returned; staying pretty much in the neighbourhood of New Bedford for some time, except going to the island of Nantucket, accompanied by my friend E. Rotch the elder.

Now a more distant prospect opened before me; but trials and difficulties seemed so in the way, that I scarcely knew how to move. After some time of weight and exercise, I requested to be recommended to the monthly meeting of the middle district in Philadelphia; and I found I had not missed my way in going there, for an exercised female minister [Elizabeth Foulke] had a little time before, spread a concern to visit such individuals, as from one cause or other, had been disowned by that monthly meeting, originally the only one in the city, and who remained separated. Some had been disowned as far back as thirty years. A man Friend, a minister of the same meeting, feeling near sympathy, offered himself to accompany her, but after paying two or three visits told her, he believed his free-will offering was not accepted by the Master, and that he could not go forward under this apprehension.

Elizabeth Foulke feeling the weight too great without a fellow-labourer, could not proceed. Thus deeply exercised, she wrote to James Simpson, a valuable minister in the country, adopting the language of the man of Macedonia, to come and help her. He informed her, that he believed it was not his business; but in a dream or vision of the night, he had seen a female Friend, who he was persuaded was designed to be her helper. Still remaining under the burden, which she scarcely knew how to support, she had informed my dear friend Phebe Pemberton, of her tried situation, a little time before our arrival; and two days after came to my lodgings, with a deeply exercised countenance. I wished her to say nothing to me on the subject till after the monthly meeting was over.

It was held the next day; when I desired her to accompany me to the men’s meeting to present my certificate. After the brethren had accepted it, and expressed their satisfaction at my being among them again, Elizabeth Foulke informed them, she had made little or no progress in the visit, on account of being left alone. After a silent pause, I told Friends, if it did not seem too hasty, and was united with by them, I felt a willingness to accompany her; which was more approvingly spoken of, than may be needful for me to remark. Our valued friend David Bacon, in the station of an elder, was appointed to attend us, and proved indeed our fellow helper in Christ. Before we proceeded, I felt most easy to have the before mentioned friend, Peter Andrews, enquired of, if he was quite clear in giving up the visit; he said he was, and thankful I was sent instead. We then moved forward as way opened; and the united band had cause to commemorate the mercy and kindness of Israel’s Shepherd, whose crook was held forth to gather the lost sheep: some of whom have since returned to his fold, and become public testimony bearers of His goodness, and that His mercy endures forever.

Our kind friend Phebe Pemberton acceptably accompanied us to several meetings adjacent to the city, till near the yearly meeting, at which a Friend spread his concern, to pay a religious visit to Friends in Great Britain and Ireland, which was fully united with; and my husband being desirous of returning with him to England, he sailed in the same ship; and they were favoured with a quick and safe passage.

As my way opened, I had suitable companions to many meetings round about; my valued friend Anna Mifflin accompanied me into the Jerseys, as far as Egg Harbour and Cape May; also our kind friend and attendant Samuel Cooper, of Pleasant View, with his carriage, another Friend being on horseback.

Through best help we got along without any accident, though some of the roads were getting bad. Returning safe to Philadelphia, I continued there about two months, attending meetings almost every day, as they came in course; and some others out of the city, with the schools at West-Town.

About this time my feelings were awakened to look homewards; and finding I was not clear of some meetings in New England, my kind friend Sarah Zane, a younger sister to the pious widow of that meek and suffering disciple of his Lord, John Pemberton, being certified of by Friends of Philadelphia, we set forward in the twelfth month, when the river Delaware was so full of ice, that some of our Friends on shore were anxious how we should get through; but being met by our affectionate friend Samuel Cooper, with his own boat, I felt no fear of our safe landing, or dismay at the apparent danger; though it took a much longer time than usual. We were so cordially received at his pleasant home, that the difficulty was soon compensated; and next day, with our kind attendant George Williams from the city, we proceeded for New York, which we entered the last day of the year 1804.

The weather was extremely cold, with a considerable fall of snow, though not so deep as afterwards; for before we got to Hartford, it was scarcely safe for wheels to pass; yet we attended the meeting next day at West Hartford.

After a public meeting in the city we went in a sleigh to New Bedford; our before mentioned friend returning to Philadelphia. We went pretty swiftly along on the snow; but the motion brought on something like sea sickness: looking very pale when we arrived at the inn, the landlady said many were affected in like manner; but in due time we got safely to New Bedford.

After again attending several meetings in that neighbourhood, my way was impressively opened, to go to a few meetings eastward, as far as Boston, Lynn, and Salem, with female companions, and Joseph Austin. We did not stop a meeting at Boston, but gave expectation to the Friends where we lodged, of being at one there on our return. During our absence, a Friend from Nantucket came there on business, and being well acquainted with a wealthy merchant of great repute, named Samuel Parkman, informed him of our intentions. At the time expected, he sent a servant to meet us on our way from Salem, to take us the best and nearest road to his house. When we got into the parlour, a large room, I thought of Cornelius the Centurion; for he seemed to have gathered up his relatives, and connections, young and old, who received us as though we also had been their near of kin; that my heart was contrited in the recollection of the very different reception our suffering brethren and sisters had formerly met with at that place. Though nothing further opened than a liberty for social conversation, and answering the enquiries made of us, it appeared to be a mutually satisfactory interview.

My mind was however secretly under weight respecting the public meeting: I had thought of the tenth hour; some proposed eleven o’clock. I said, I had mostly left these matters to those resident in a place, but at that time, ten o’clock seemed to fix with me. After a little pause, Samuel Parkman replied: “And I believe you are right; for it is our Quarter Sessions here, which open at twelve o’clock; it will give more liberty for such as incline to attend, than a later hour.” So after desiring those who were to give notice, to request punctuality to the hour, we went to our lodgings. The meeting collected very fully and punctually, and Samuel Parkman appeared to have brought the numerous company we had been with at his house the evening before, whom he seated in a suitable manner, and then sat down in the gallery, by the Friend who attended us. Seeing several come in who seemed of the great of the earth, my spirit was awfully bowed before the Throne of Grace, for help and direction.

The meeting was scarcely more than fully gathered into quietude, when the word of life arose, with that authority which I dared not dispute, though on leaving my seat I saw little more to express, than: “With the word of a King there is power.” And may my soul ever bear in grateful remembrance the truth of this assertion, as applicable to the King of kings, who graciously condescended to be mouth and wisdom, tongue and utterance, till I felt clear of apprehended duty, in bearing testimony to the all-sufficiency of His power, for every good word and work, I had only taken my seat a short time, when the spirit of supplication was poured forth, to beseech the Lord on high, that in his own time, the blood of the martyrs which had been shed in that place, might prove as the seed of the kingdom; that the children then unborn, might become acquainted with the pure and holy principle of grace and truth, which comes by Jesus Christ; for the support of which, his faithful servants loved not their lives unto death. A great solemnity appeared over the meeting; and after a little pause, the public clock struck twelve, when one of the great men went out, but in a very quiet manner: and in a short time the meeting broke up.

S. Parkman came, and took me by the hand in a very affectionate manner, saying very gravely: “You have indeed manifested, that ‘With the word of a King there is power,’ or you could not have been supported; for you were just an hour and a half on your feet, before you offered the prayer to God; and that he may prosper you in every future work and service, is my sincere desire.” I felt then like a worm; and could hardly tell what answer to make, more than just to acknowledge his kind attention. Many tender persons near the door of the meetinghouse, offered grateful acknowledgements to the blessed Author of all good, that they had had the opportunity of being at meeting; expressing a hope they should not soon forget it. In the afternoon we journeyed forward; and next day got safely back to New Bedford.

My feelings now began to be awakened more and more, to look towards my native land; not that I felt a full clearance in some places; but having done what I could, it felt best to pack up the chest which contained the accommodations for a voyage, and to settle such goods as were to be left behind, etc.; that if increasing liberty should be obtained, and way open to take shipping from some distant port, I might have them in readiness; though as before, it seemed safest for me to say little about it, till it became needful to request a certificate.

About the latter end of third month, taking a near and affecting leave of my beloved friends there, one of them accompanied my companion and self to New York, by water about two hundred miles. We had a pretty favourable passage for the time of year, and were as usual very kindly received by our friends John and Catharine Murray. Having a prospect of attending some meetings on Long Island, and a quarterly meeting at Purchase, my faith was greatly tried, through a permitted accident.

Going into a friend’s house in New York, a plank broke under me, and caused a severe wound on the shin bone, which gave me great pain; but not feeling liberty in spirit to omit these meetings, our dear friends J. and C. Murray, with worthy Thomas Dobson, father of Lindley Murray’s wife, accompanied us to Long Island, when being clear of meetings there, the former Friends went with us to the quarterly meeting at Purchase; and though I travelled along with great difficulty, my mind feeling a peaceful acquittance, I was mercifully enabled to move forward.

When about to leave New York, I felt so nearly and tenderly affected towards Friends there, that a secret impression attended me it might be the farewell opportunity; which proving the case, my way opened, under the influence of the same cementing love, to salute their women’s yearly meeting, which began about the time of my embarkation, with an epistle; which a Friend was commissioned to inform me was so acceptable, that copies were circulated to the quarterly meetings.

Journeying forward, taking some meetings in our way, we were met at Frank ford by our valued friends James Pemberton, and Elizabeth Foulke. The quarterly meeting coming on at Philadelphia, I was very desirous to attend it, though with considerable difficulty; yet my mind being relieved thereby, I was favoured with quietude to remain under the hospitable roof of my dear friends James and Phebe Pemberton.

During this time of confinement, I had opportunity steadily to look homewards, and hearing of a vessel called the Rose, of which the captain, Caleb Hathaway, was in part owner, likely to sail for Liverpool in about three weeks, I felt quite easy to have my passage taken in her; though several of my kind friends thought it was running a risk for me to go to sea before the wound in my limb was healed, and I a stranger to all on board. Before my departure, my endeared friend Rebecca Wright, and two precious young women, came to take leave, and stopped two nights with me.

On the morning of my embarkation, many Friends coming in, a farewell religious opportunity opened, and our separation was attended with such tenderness and contrition, as was humbling beyond the power of expression. After which my beloved friends Phebe Pemberton and Elizabeth Foulke, with several others, accompanied me to the ship: three of whom stayed two nights with me on board, returning with the pilot.

Here may be inserted an extract of a letter from Rebecca Jones, written on the occasion of Martha Routh’s return home.

Philadelphia, Fifth month 29th, 1805.

My dearly beloved friend and sister Martha Routh!

Feeling my heart this morning renewedly bound to you, in the precious fellowship of the gospel, in the afflictions whereof I have also often been your companion, I have called for pen and ink to salute you on board the Rose; and perhaps it may, soon after your arrival on your own shore, be put into your hand.

My feelings on parting with you at J. Pemberton’s last seventh-day, amidst such a concourse of your friends, were indescribable; fully believing that, though we may never more meet in mutability, our spirits will not be separated by distance, either of time or space. I don’t dare to say that you will never see America again; that and all future events, I desire to leave to your blessed Master, who has often made a way for you, even where you could see no way: and He will not forsake you, nor allow you to become desolate: “Because he has set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known my name: he shall call upon me and I will answer him, etc. etc.” (read 91st Psalm.) This gracious promise, so replete with mercy and goodness, springs sweetly in my remembrance, as a portion especially designed for your inheritance, now after your retreat from our laborious field, wherein you have not fainted.

Well, my dear friend, count it no strange thing if your faith and patience be again proved. You know too well the danger of pleasant things, to look for or desire them further than in the will of Him, “who does all things well;” and who has, in the promise alluded to, given you the fullest assurance of his care and protection, through your painful pilgrimage. The “Alpha” indeed, will also reward your unwearied endeavours to promote His blessed cause and testimony on earth, with a peaceful admission among His faithful servants, when your tribulations and labours are over: and be your ever blessed “Omega,” your “evening song.”

I was now left in the Rose entirely with strangers, who were very kind and civil in their way; but I felt the trial so great of having no member of our Society on board, that I thought even a lamb out of our own flock, would have been a precious companion; yet I was mercifully preserved in quietude, and my wound gradually healed. I found captain Hathaway a serious man, much inclined to look towards Friends; and when with me he spoke and acted like one; but he was then too weak to take up the cross when in company with others, though he has since become a member of our religious Society.

I suffered while at sea as heretofore, from sickness, yet not so heavily as in former voyages, and in about six weeks was favoured to land safely at Liverpool.

Chapter XIII

- Her further travels

- Her last illness and decease

- The Testimony of Hardshaw East monthly meeting concerning her.

Towards the close of the year 1808, Martha Routh was visited with a painful cough and affection of the lungs, which confined her to the house, and mostly to her bed for many weeks. Under this affliction, it appears, she was favoured with a degree of quietude, in which she could feelingly adopt the acknowledgement of having been an unprofitable servant, in the cause of righteousness.

She had had a previous prospect of attending the half-year’s meeting for Wales, held at Carmarthen, and the quarterly meeting for Bristol and Somerset, etc. and she was favoured to recover her strength, in time to obtain a certificate from her monthly meeting, and accomplish the service. Of the half-year’s meeting she remarks: “The number of Friends belonging to the principality was small, but several from England were there, and the united little band was mercifully owned with the descendings of the dew of heaven.”

In 1809, she accomplished her last journey with a certificate, by attending the four northern quarterly meetings as they fell in course, and taking such other meetings as could be visited by the way. On this occasion she was accompanied by her friend Mary Cockbain, being herself in so delicate a state of health, as to be obliged frequently to sit up several hours in the night, to relieve the oppression of the lungs. She attended meetings at Preston, Kendal, Cockermouth, Whitehaven, Wigton, Newcastle, Darlington, Colthouse, Yealand, and Lancaster, some of them large public gatherings, a number of meetings for discipline being also included. “On returning; home,” she writes, “I was led to take a secret survey of the continued dealings of Divine kindness, in thus furnishing me with a renewal of strength, to labour in His vineyard; and fervent desires were raised to bless His holy name forever.”

After mentioning circumstances connected with the decease of her friend Sarah Stephenson, which happened in America, while they were both engaged on that continent in religious service, though at a considerable distance from each other, Martha Routh concludes her Journal (in 1814) as follows: “And I am now often ready to say on my own account; Lord! now let your poor servant also depart in peace; for my eyes, through your adorable mercy, have seen your salvation.”

The account of her illness and decease, are comprised in the following testimony.

Testimony from the monthly meeting of Hardshaw East, concerning Martha Routh, deceased.

Our beloved friend Martha Routh was born at Stourbridge, in Worcestershire, the 26th of fourth month, 1743, O. S. Her parents Henry and Jane Winter, were steady religious Friends, from whom she had the advantage of a guarded education; and through the merciful visitations of our Heavenly Father’s love, religious impressions were early made upon her tender mind. As she advanced in years, the same Divine power followed her; by which she was preserved from many of the evils which abound in the world; and as she submitted to the further discoveries of the Divine principle of light and grace in her own heart, she was made an experimental witness of its cleansing and sanctifying operation.

About the seventeenth year of her age, with the approbation of her father, her surviving parent, she removed to Nottingham; where first as an assistant and afterwards as principal, in a boarding school for Friends’ children, she manifested much concern and watchful care for their preservation and religious improvement.

She had, for several years, been impressed with a view of being called to the work of the ministry; and in the thirtieth year of her age, she first appeared in that service. In the year 1775, in company with that valuable minister of the gospel, Ruth Fallows, she visited the meetings of Friends in some of the northern counties, and Scotland. In the following year, she was married to Richard Routh, of Manchester, and became a member of that meeting.

After her settlement there, with the concurrence of Friends, she visited at different times, the meetings of Friends in this nation, Scotland, and Ireland, also those in the United States of North America; labouring diligently in that country for three years; and on her return, brought satisfactory certificates of her services there.

When at home, she was a diligent attender of meetings for worship and discipline; and was, therein, frequently and fervently engaged, to labour for the promotion of truth and righteousness.

Indeed, this our beloved friend, was eminently devoted to discharge whatever she believed to be required at her hands, whether at home or abroad. Unwearied in promoting the cause of Truth, a good example of plainness and Christian moderation in her manner of living, diligent in visiting the widow, the fatherless, and the afflicted, whether in body or mind; with whom she was a sincere sympathizer, having often, to such, to communicate a word of comfort; also according to her ability, she extended pecuniary assistance to those who were in need.

During the winter preceding her decease, her bodily strength was on the decline; yet she continued to be diligent in attending meetings.

In the fifth month she left home to attend the yearly meeting in London; and was favoured to perform the journey without much apparent fatigue. Soon after her arrival there she became unwell, but was able to attend most of the sittings of the yearly meeting. Her illness increasing, she was confined at the house of our friend Simon Bailey, in London.

During the time of her confinement, which was about seven weeks, we are informed that she did not communicate much, but sufficient to evince that her mind was centred on the Rock of ages; though at seasons under great conflict. Her utterance was very feeble and broken, so that it was difficult to preserve the connection in what she expressed; yet in substance it was strong and lively. To a Friend, she said her mind was fast anchored in the Beloved of souls; and at another time said: “I want my fellow pilgrims to know that there is a rest prepared for the people of God.”

Alluding to her many and close provings by sea and land, she rejoicingly acknowledged, that she witnessed a state comparable to a morning without clouds. At another time she said: “I have known many plunges. I think the end cannot be far off.” And the repeated solemn request to those about her was: “Crave the release of my spirit in the Divine will, and not otherwise.”

Her departure was scarcely perceptible; a short time previous to which there was a sweetness on her countenance, and a prevailing solemnity, which was a support in that awful season, to those present; and we have no doubt that she is entered into that rest prepared for the righteous.

She departed this life, the 18th of the seventh month, 1817, at the house of Simon Bailey aforesaid; and was interred in Friends’ burial ground at Bunhill Fields, the 25th of the same, after a solemn meeting at Devonshire-House; aged seventy-four, and a minister near forty-five years.

Given forth at our monthly meeting of Hardshaw East, held at Manchester, the 27th of the eleventh month, 1817.

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*Piety Promoted in a Collection of the Dying Sayings of Many of the People Called Quakers: With a Brief Account of Some of Their Labors in the Gospel, and Sufferings for the Same. ⏎

†The History of the Rise, Increase, and Progress of that Christian People Called Quakers, by William Sewel ⏎

‡It is related of Comfort Collins, that about the year 1760, she embarked with Sarah Barney, of Nantucket, to pay a religious visit to Friends in Europe. When they had been a while at sea, she pleasantly told her companion, she believed the will was taken for the deed. “How is that,” said the Friend, “we are now on our way.” “No matter,” replied Comfort, “keep this to yourself and we shall see.” Soon after the vessel sprang a leak, the captain thought it best to return, and they were set on shore. ⏎