Chapter 6
His visiting the Quarterly-meetings in Chester County; and afterwards joining with Daniel Stanton and John Scarborough in a Visit to such as kept Slaves there—Some Observations on the Conduct such should maintain as are concerned to speak in Meetings for Discipline—Several more Visits to such as kept Slaves; and to Friends near Salem—Some Account of the Yearly-meeting in the Year 1759; and of the increasing Concern, in divers Provinces, to labour against buying and keeping Slaves—The Yearly-meeting Epistle
His visits to the Quarterly Meetings in Chester County. He later joined Daniel Stanton and John Scarborough in visiting people there who kept slaves. Some observations on how those who feel called to speak in Meetings for Discipline should conduct themselves. Several more visits to people who kept slaves, and to Friends near Salem. An account of the Yearly Meeting in 1759. The growing concern in several provinces to work against buying and keeping slaves. The Yearly Meeting Epistle
On the eleventh Day of the eleventh Month, in the Year 1758, I set out for Concord; the Quarterly-meeting, heretofore held there, was now, by reason of a great Increase of Members, divided into two by the Agreement of Friends, at our last Yearly-meeting. Here I met with our beloved Friends, Samuel Spavold and Mary Kirby, from England, and with Joseph White, from Bucks County, who had taken Leave of his Family in order to go on a religious Visit to Friends in England; and, through divine Goodness, we were favoured with a strengthening Opportunity together.
On the eleventh day of the eleventh month, 1758, I set out for Concord. The quarterly meeting had previously been held there. But because its membership had grown greatly, Friends agreed at our last yearly meeting to divide it into two meetings. In Concord, I met our beloved Friends Samuel Spavold and Mary Kirby, from England. I also met Joseph White, from Bucks County. He had taken leave of his family to make a religious visit to Friends in England. Through divine goodness, we were blessed with a strengthening time together.
After this Meeting I joined with my Friends, Daniel Stanton and John Scarborough, in visiting Friends who had Slaves; and at Night we had a Family-meeting at William Trimble's, many young People being there; and it was a precious reviving Opportunity. Next Morning we had a comfortable Sitting with a sick Neighbour; and thence to the Burial of the Corpse of a Friend at Uwchland Meeting, at which were many People, and it was a Time of divine Favour; after which, we visited some who had Slaves; and, at Night, had a Family-meeting at a Friend's House, where the Channel of Gospel-love was opened, and my Mind was comforted after a hard Day's Labour. The next Day we were at Goshen Monthly-meeting; and thence, on the eighteenth Day of the eleventh Month, in the Year 1758, attended the Quarterly-meeting at London-Grove, it being the first held at that Place. Here we met again with all the before-mentioned Friends, and had some edifying Meetings: And, near the Conclusion of the Meeting for Business, Friends were incited to Constancy in supporting the Testimony of Truth, and reminded of the Necessity which the Disciples of Christ are under to attend principally to his Business, as he is pleased to open it to us: And to be particularly careful to have our Minds redeemed from the Love of Wealth; to have our outward Affairs in as little Room as may be; that no temporal Concerns may entangle our Affections, or hinder us from diligently following the Dictates of Truth, in labouring to promote the pure Spirit of Meekness and Heavenly-mindedness amongst the Children of Men in these Days of Calamity and Distress, wherein God is visiting our Land with his just Judgments.
After this meeting, I joined my Friends Daniel Stanton and John Scarborough in visiting Friends who had slaves. That night, we held a family meeting at William Trimble's. Many young people were there, and it was a precious, renewing occasion. The next morning, we had a comforting visit with a sick neighbor. From there, we went to the burial of a Friend at Uwchland Meeting. Many people were there, and it was a time of divine favor. Afterward, we visited some people who had slaves. That night, we held a family meeting at a Friend's house. There, the channel of gospel love opened, and my mind was comforted after a hard day's work. The next day, we attended Goshen Monthly Meeting. From there, on the eighteenth day of the eleventh month, in 1758, we attended Quarterly Meeting at London-Grove. It was the first held there. We met again with all the Friends mentioned earlier, and we had some uplifting meetings. Near the end of the business meeting, Friends were encouraged to remain steadfast in upholding the testimony of truth. They were reminded that Christ's disciples must attend above all to his work, as he reveals it to us. They were also urged to take special care to free their minds from the love of wealth. They were urged to keep their worldly affairs as limited as possible. In this way, no worldly concerns would entangle their affections or hinder them from diligently following the guidance of truth. They could then work to promote the pure spirit of meekness and heavenly-mindedness among all people. These are days of calamity and distress, in which God is visiting our land with his just judgments.
Each of these Quarterly-meetings was large, and sat near eight Hours. Here I had Occasion to consider, that it was a weighty Thing to speak much in large Meetings for Business: First, except our Minds are rightly prepared, and we clearly understand the Case we speak to, instead of forwarding, we hinder, Business, and make more Labour for those on whom the Burthen of the Work is laid.
Each of these Quarterly Meetings was large and lasted nearly eight hours. Here I had reason to reflect on the weighty responsibility of speaking at length in large business meetings. First, if our minds are not properly prepared and we do not clearly understand the matter, we hinder business rather than advance it. We also create more work for those who bear the burden of it.
If selfish Views, or a partial Spirit, have any Room in our Minds, we are unfit for the Lord's Work; if we have a clear Prospect of the Business, and proper Weight on our Minds to speak, it behoves us to avoid useless Apologies and Repetitions: Where People are gathered from far, and adjourning a Meeting of Business is attended with great Difficulty, it behoves all to be cautious how they detain a Meeting; especially when they have sat six or seven Hours, and have a great Distance to ride Home. After this Meeting I rode Home.
If selfish motives or prejudice have any place in our minds, we are unfit for the Lord's work. If we clearly understand the business and feel a proper burden to speak, we should avoid needless apologies and repetition. When people have traveled far, it may be very difficult to adjourn a business meeting. In such cases, everyone should take care not to keep the meeting going unnecessarily. This is especially important when people have sat for six or seven hours and have a long ride home. After this meeting I rode home.
In the Beginning of the twelfth Month of the Year 1758 I joined in Company with my Friends, John Sykes and Daniel Stanton, in visiting such as had Slaves: Some, whose Hearts were rightly exercised about them, appeared to be glad of our Visit; but in some Places our Way was more difficult; and I often saw the Necessity of keeping down to that Root from whence our Concern proceeded; and have Cause, in reverent Thankfulness, humbly to bow down before the Lord, who was near to me, and preserved my Mind in Calmness under some sharp Conflicts, and begat a Spirit of Sympathy and Tenderness in me toward some who were grievously entangled by the Spirit of this World.
At the beginning of the twelfth month of 1758, I joined my friends John Sykes and Daniel Stanton in visiting slave owners. Some had been deeply concerned about their slaves and seemed glad of our visit. But in some places, our way was more difficult. I often saw the need to stay close to the source of our concern. I have reason to bow humbly before the Lord in reverent gratitude. He was near me and kept my mind calm through some sharp conflicts. He also gave me a spirit of sympathy and tenderness toward some who were deeply entangled in the spirit of this world.
In the first Month of the Year 1759, having found my Mind drawn to visit some of the more active Members, in our Society at Philadelphia, who had Slaves, I met my Friend John Churchman there, by an Agreement: And we continued about a Week in the City. We visited some that were sick, and some Widows and their Families; and the other Part of our Time was mostly employed in visiting such as had Slaves.—It was a Time of deep Exercise, looking often to the Lord for his Assistance; who, in unspeakable Kindness, favoured us with the Influence of that Spirit, which crucifies to the Greatness and Splendour of this World, and enabled us to go through some heavy Labours, in which we found Peace.
In the first month of 1759, I felt drawn to visit some of the more active members of our Society in Philadelphia who had slaves. By agreement, I met my friend John Churchman there, and we stayed in the city for about a week. We visited some sick people, as well as some widows and their families. We spent most of the rest of our time visiting those who had slaves. It was a time of deep spiritual struggle, and we often looked to the Lord for help. In his unspeakable kindness, he blessed us with the influence of his Spirit, which frees us from attachment to worldly greatness and splendor. He enabled us to carry out some difficult work, in which we found peace.
On the twenty-fourth Day of the third Month of this Year, I was at our general Spring-meeting at Philadelphia: After which, I again joined with John Churchman on a Visit to some more who had Slaves in Philadelphia; and, with Thankfulness to our heavenly Father, I may say, that divine Love and a true sympathising Tenderness of Heart prevailed at Times in this Service.
On the twenty-fourth day of the third month of that year, I attended our general spring meeting in Philadelphia. Afterward, I again joined John Churchman in visiting more people who had slaves in Philadelphia. With gratitude to our heavenly Father, I can say that divine love and true sympathy and tenderness of heart prevailed at times during these visits.
Having, at Times, perceived a Shyness in some Friends, of considerable Note, towards me, I found an Engagement in Gospel Love to pay a Visit to one of them; and, as I dwelt under the Exercise, I felt a Resignedness in my Mind to go; So I went, and told him, in private, I had a Desire to have an Opportunity with him alone; to which he readily agreed: And then, in the Fear of the Lord, Things relating to that Shyness were searched to the Bottom; and we had a large Conference, which, I believe, was of Use to both of us, and am thankful that Way was opened for it.
At times, I noticed that some prominent Friends were reserved toward me. In Gospel love, I felt called to visit one of them. As I reflected on this concern, I became willing to go. So I went and told him privately that I wished to speak with him alone. He readily agreed. Then, in the fear of the Lord, we explored the reasons for his reserve thoroughly. We had a long conversation that I believe was useful to us both. I am thankful that the way was opened for it.
On the fourteenth Day of the sixth Month, in the same Year, having felt Drawings in my Mind to visit Friends about Salem, and having the Approbation of our Monthly-meeting therein, I attended their Quarterly-meeting, and was out seven Days, and at seven Meetings; in some of which I was chiefly silent, and in others, through the baptizing Power of Truth, my Heart was enlarged in heavenly Love, and found a near Fellowship with the Brethren and Sisters, in the manifold Trials attending their Christian Progress through this World.
On the fourteenth day of the sixth month that same year, I felt drawn to visit Friends around Salem. With our Monthly Meeting's approval, I attended their Quarterly Meeting. I was away for seven days and attended seven meetings. At some meetings I was mostly silent. At others, through the baptizing power of Truth, my heart opened in heavenly love. I felt a close fellowship with the brothers and sisters in the many trials of their Christian journey through this world.
In the seventh Month, I found an increasing Concern on my Mind to visit some active Members in our Society who had Slaves; and, having no Opportunity of the Company of such as were named on the Minutes of the Yearly-meeting, I went alone to their Houses, and, in the Fear of the Lord, acquainted them with the Exercise I was under: And thus, sometimes, by a few Words, I found myself discharged from a heavy Burthen.
In the seventh month, I felt a growing concern to visit some active members of our Society who had slaves. I had no opportunity to go with those named in the Yearly Meeting’s minutes, so I went to their homes alone. In fear of the Lord, I told them of the concern weighing on me. Sometimes, after saying only a few words, I felt relieved of a heavy burden.
After this, our Friend John Churchman, coming into our Province with a View to be at some Meetings, and to join again in the Visit to those who had Slaves, I bore him Company in the said Visit to some active Members, and found inward Satisfaction.
After this, our Friend John Churchman came to our province to attend some meetings. He also intended to join again in visiting those who had slaves. I accompanied him on visits to some active members and felt inward satisfaction.
At our Yearly-meeting, in the Year 1759, we had some weighty Seasons; where the Power of Truth was largely extended, to the strengthening of the Honest-minded. As Friends read over the Epistles, to be sent to the Yearly-meetings along this Continent, I observed in most of them, both this Year and last, it was recommended to Friends to labour against buying and keeping Slaves; and in some of them closely treated upon. This Practice had long been a heavy Exercise to me, and I have often waded through mortifying Labours on that Account; and, at Times, in some Meetings been almost alone therein. Now, observing the increasing Concern in our religious Society, and seeing how the Lord was raising up and qualifying Servants for his Work, not only in this Respect, but for promoting the Cause of Truth in general, I was humbly bowed in Thankfulness before him.
At our Yearly Meeting in 1759, we had some deeply moving times. The power of Truth was felt widely, strengthening those who were sincere. Friends read the letters to be sent to the Yearly Meetings across this continent. I noticed that most of them, both this year and last, urged Friends to work against buying and keeping slaves. Some addressed the matter in strong terms. This practice had long weighed heavily on me. Because of it, I had often struggled through painful labors, and at times I had been almost alone in some meetings. Now I saw the growing concern in our religious Society. I also saw how the Lord was raising up servants and preparing them for his work. They served not only in this matter, but also in advancing the cause of Truth generally. Seeing this, I was humbly bowed in thankfulness before him.
This Meeting continued near a Week; and, for several Days, in the fore Part of it, my Mind was drawn into a deep inward Stillness; and being, at Times, covered with the Spirit of Supplication, my Heart was secretly poured out before the Lord: And, near the Conclusion of the Meeting for Business, Way opened, that, in the pure Flowings of divine Love, I expressed what lay upon me; which, as it then arose in my Mind, was "first to shew how Deep answers to Deep in the Hearts of the Sincere and Upright; though, in their different Growths, they may not all have attained to the same Clearness in some Points relating to our Testimony: And I was led to mention the Integrity and Constancy of many Martyrs, who gave their Lives for the Testimony of Jesus; and yet, in some Points, held Doctrines distinguishable from some which we hold: And that, in all Ages, where People were faithful to the Light and Understanding which the Most High afforded them, they found Acceptance with him; and that now, though there are different Ways of Thinking amongst us in some Particulars, yet, if we mutually kept to that Spirit and Power which crucifies to the World, which teaches us to be content with Things really needful, and to avoid all Superfluities, giving up our Hearts to fear and serve the Lord, true Unity may still be preserved amongst us: And that if such, as were, at Times, under Sufferings on Account of some Scruples of Conscience, kept low and humble, and in their Conduct in Life manifested a Spirit of true Charity, it would be more likely to reach the Witness in others, and be of more Service in the Church, than if their Sufferings were attended with a contrary Spirit and Conduct." In which Exercise I was drawn into a sympathizing Tenderness with the Sheep of Christ, however distinguished one from another in this World; and the like Disposition appeared to spread over others in the Meeting. Great is the Goodness of the Lord toward his poor Creatures!
The Meeting lasted nearly a week. For several days at the beginning, my mind was drawn into a deep inward stillness. At times, I was filled with the spirit of prayer, and my heart poured itself out silently before the Lord. Near the end of the Meeting for Business, a way opened for me to speak. In the pure flow of divine love, I expressed what was on my heart, as it then arose in my mind: “First, I showed how deep answers to deep in the hearts of sincere and upright people. They may be at different stages of growth and may not all see some points of our testimony equally clearly. I was led to speak of the integrity and steadfastness of many martyrs who gave their lives for the testimony of Jesus. Yet on some points, their doctrines differed from some of ours. In every age, people who were faithful to the light and understanding the Most High gave them found acceptance with him. “Even now, we think differently about some matters. Yet true unity may still be preserved among us if we all remain faithful to that spirit and power which crucifies us to the world. It teaches us to be content with what we truly need and to avoid all excess. We must give our hearts to fearing and serving the Lord. “Some at times suffer because of scruples of conscience. If they remain humble and lowly, and show a spirit of true charity in their lives, their conduct is more likely to reach the witness in others and be of greater service in the Church. This is more likely than if their suffering is accompanied by an opposing spirit and conduct.” As I spoke, I felt a tender sympathy for the sheep of Christ, however they might differ from one another in this world. The same feeling seemed to spread among others at the Meeting. Great is the goodness of the Lord toward his poor creatures!
An Epistle went forth from this Yearly-meeting, which I think good to give a Place in this Journal; being as follows:
An epistle was sent out from this Yearly Meeting, and I think it is worth including in this journal. It reads as follows:
From the Yearly-meeting held at Philadelphia, for Pennsylvania and New-Jersey, from the twenty-second Day of the ninth Month, to the twenty-eighth Day of the same, inclusive, 1759. To the Quarterly and Monthly-meetings of Friends belonging to the said Yearly-meeting. "Dearly beloved Friends and Brethren,—In an awful Sense of the Wisdom and Goodness of the Lord our God, whose tender Mercies have long been continued to us in this Land, we affectionately salute you, with sincere and fervent Desires, that we may reverently regard the Dispensations of his Providence, and improve under them. The Empires and Kingdoms of the Earth are subject to his almighty Power: He is the God of the Spirits of all Flesh, and deals with his People agreeable to that Wisdom, the Depth whereof is to us unsearchable: We, in these Provinces, may say, he hath, as a gracious and tender Parent, dealt bountifully with us, even from the Days of our Fathers: It was he who strengthened them to labour through the Difficulties attending the Improvement of a Wilderness, and made Way for them in the Hearts of the Natives; so that by them they were comforted in Times of Want and Distress: It was by the gracious Influences of his holy Spirit, that they were disposed to work Righteousness, and walk uprightly one towards another, and towards the Natives, and in Life and Conversation to manifest the Excellency of the Principles and Doctrines of the Christian Religion; and thereby they retain their Esteem and Friendship: Whilst they were labouring for the Necessaries of Life, many of them were fervently engaged to promote Piety and Virtue in the Earth, and educate their Children in the Fear of the Lord. If we carefully consider the peaceable Measures pursued in the first Settlement of the Land, and that Freedom from the Desolations of Wars which for a long Time we enjoyed, we shall find ourselves under strong Obligations to the Almighty, who, when the Earth is so generally polluted with Wickedness, gave us a Being in a Part so signally favoured with Tranquility and Plenty, and in which the Glad-tidings of the Gospel of Christ are so freely published, that we may justly say with the Psalmist, "What shall we render unto the Lord for all his Benefits?" Our own real Good, and the Good of our Posterity, in some Measure, depend on the Part we act; and it nearly concerns us to try our Foundations impartially. Such are the different Rewards of the Just and Unjust in a future State, that, to attend diligently to the Dictates of the Spirit of Christ, to devote ourselves to his Service, and engage fervently in his Cause, during our short Stay in this World, is a Choice well becoming a free intelligent Creature; we shall thus clearly see and consider that the Dealings of God with Mankind in a national Capacity, as recorded in Holy Writ, do sufficiently evidence the Truth of that Saying, "It is Righteousness which exalteth a Nation;" and though he doth not at all Times suddenly execute his Judgments on a sinful People in this Life, yet we see, by many Instances, that where "Men follow lying Vanities, they forsake their own Mercies;" and as a proud selfish Spirit prevails and spreads among a People, so partial Judgment, Oppression, Discord, Envy, and Confusions, increase, and Provinces and Kingdoms are made to drink the Cup of Adversity as a Reward of their own Doings. Thus the inspired Prophet, reasoning with the degenerated Jews, saith, "Thine own Wickedness shall correct thee, and thy Backslidings shall reprove thee: Know, therefore, that it is an evil Thing and bitter, that thou hast forsaken the Lord thy God, and that my Fear is not in thee, saith the Lord God of Hosts." Jer. ii. 19. The God of our Fathers, who hath bestowed on us many Benefits, furnished a Table for us in the Wilderness, and made the Desarts and solitary Places to rejoice; he doth now mercifully call upon us to serve him more faithfully.—We may truly say, with the Prophet, "It is his Voice which crieth to the City, and Men of Wisdom see his Name: They regard the Rod, and him who hath appointed it."—People, who look chiefly at Things outward, too little consider the original Cause of the present Troubles; but such as fear the Lord, and think often upon his Name, see and feel that a wrong Spirit is spreading among the Inhabitants of our Country; that the Hearts of many are waxed fat, and their Ears dull of hearing; that the Most High, in his Visitations to us, instead of calling, lifteth up his Voice and crieth; he crieth to our Country, and his Voice waxeth louder and louder. In former Wars between the English and other Nations, since the Settlement of our Provinces, the Calamities attending them have fallen chiefly on other Places, but now of late they have reached to our Borders; many of our fellow Subjects have suffered on and near our Frontiers, some have been slain in Battle, some killed in their Houses, and some in their Fields, some wounded and left in great Misery, and others separated from their Wives and little Children, who have been carried Captives among the Indians: We have seen Men and Women, who have been Witnesses of these Scenes of Sorrow, and been reduced to Want, have come to our Houses asking Relief.—It is not long since it was the Case of many young Men, in one of these Provinces, to be draughted, in order to be taken as Soldiers; some were at that Time in great Distress, and had Occasion to consider that their Lives had been too little conformable to the Purity and Spirituality of that Religion which we profess, and found themselves too little acquainted with that inward Humility, in which true Fortitude to endure Hardness for the Truth's Sake is experienced.—Many Parents were concerned for their Children, and in that Time of Trial were led to consider, that their Care, to get outward Treasure for them, had been greater than their Care for their Settlement in that Religion which crucifieth to the World, and enableth to bear a clear Testimony to the peaceable Government of the Messiah. These Troubles are removed, and for a Time we are released from them. Let us not forget that "The Most High hath his Way in the Deep, in Clouds and in thick Darkness"—that it is his Voice which crieth to the City and to the Country; and oh! that these loud and awakening Cries may have a proper Effect upon us, that heavier Chastisement may not become necessary! For though Things, as to the Outward, may, for a short Time, afford a pleasing Prospect; yet, while a selfish Spirit, that is not subject to the Cross of Christ, continueth to spread and prevail, there can be no long Continuance in outward Peace and Tranquility. If we desire an Inheritance incorruptible, and to be at Rest in that State of Peace and Happiness, which ever continues; if we desire, in this Life, to dwell under the Favour and Protection of that almighty Being, whose Habitation is in Holiness, whose Ways are all equal, and whose Anger is now kindled because of our Backslidings; let us then awfully regard these Beginnings of his fore Judgments, and, with Abasement and Humiliation turn to him, whom we have offended. Contending with one equal in Strength is an uneasy Exercise; but if the Lord is become our Enemy, if we persist to contend with him who is omnipotent, our Overthrow will be unavoidable. Do we feel an affectionate Regard to Posterity; and are we employed to promote their Happiness? Do our Minds, in Things outward, look beyond our own Dissolution; and are we contriving for the Prosperity of our Children after us? Let us then, like wise Builders, lay the Foundation deep; and, by our constant uniform Regard to an inward Piety and Virtue, let them see that we really value it: Let us labour, in the Fear of the Lord, that their innocent Minds, while young and tender, may be preserved from Corruptions; that, as they advance in Age, they may rightly understand their true Interest, may consider the Uncertainty of temporal Things, and, above all, have their Hope and Confidence firmly settled in the Blessing of that Almighty Being, who inhabits Eternity, and preserves and supports the World. In all our Cares, about worldly Treasures, let us steadily bear in Mind, that Riches, possessed by Children who do not truly serve God, are likely to prove Snares that may more grievously entangle them in that Spirit of Selfishness and Exaltation, which stands in Opposition to real Peace and Happiness; and renders them Enemies to the Cross of Christ, who submit to the Influence of it. To keep a watchful eye towards real Objects of Charity, to visit the Poor in their lonesome Dwelling-places, to comfort them who, through the Dispensations of divine Providence, are in strait and painful Circumstances in this Life, and steadily to endeavour to honour God with our Substance, from a real Sense of the Love of Christ influencing our Minds thereto, is more likely to bring a Blessing to our Children, and will afford more Satisfaction to a Christian favoured with Plenty, than an earnest Desire to collect much Wealth to leave behind us; for "Here we have no continuing City;" may we therefore diligently "seek one that is to come, whose Builder and Maker is God." "Finally, Brethren, whatsoever Things are true, whatsoever Things are just, whatsoever Things are pure, whatsoever Things are lovely, whatsoever Things are of good Report; if there be any Virtue, if there be any Praise, think on these Things and do them, and the God of Peace shall be with you." Signed, by Appointment, and on Behalf of our said Meeting, by seven Friends.
From the Yearly Meeting held at Philadelphia for Pennsylvania and New-Jersey, from the twenty-second through the twenty-eighth day of the ninth month, 1759. To the Quarterly and Monthly Meetings of Friends belonging to that Yearly Meeting. "Dearly beloved Friends and Brethren, with reverent awe at the wisdom and goodness of the Lord our God, we greet you affectionately. His tender mercies have long continued to us in this land. We sincerely and fervently desire that we may reverently attend to the workings of his providence and grow through them. The empires and kingdoms of the earth are subject to his almighty power. He is the God of the spirits of all people, and he deals with his people according to his wisdom, whose depths we cannot fathom. We in these provinces can say that he has dealt generously with us, like a gracious and tender parent, since the days of our fathers. He gave them strength to labor through the difficulties of developing a wilderness. He also won them a place in the hearts of the Natives, who comforted them in times of need and distress. Through the gracious influence of his holy Spirit, our fathers were moved to act justly and deal honestly with one another and with the Natives. In their lives and conduct, they showed the excellence of the principles and doctrines of the Christian religion. In this way they kept the esteem and friendship of the Natives. While working for the necessities of life, many of them were also fervently committed to promoting piety and virtue in the world and raising their children in the fear of the Lord. Let us carefully consider the peaceful measures followed when this land was first settled and the freedom from the devastation of war that we long enjoyed. We shall then see how deeply indebted we are to the Almighty. Though the earth is so widely polluted with wickedness, he brought us into being in a place especially blessed with peace and plenty. Here, too, the good news of the gospel of Christ is proclaimed so freely that we may rightly say with the Psalmist, "What shall we render unto the Lord for all his benefits?" Our own true good, and that of our descendants, depends in some measure on how we act. It is therefore a matter of great concern that we examine our foundations impartially. The rewards of the just and the unjust in the life to come are so different that we should listen diligently to the guidance of the Spirit of Christ. We should devote ourselves to his service and work fervently for his cause during our short stay in this world. This is a choice worthy of a free and intelligent creature. We shall then clearly see and consider how God has dealt with nations, as recorded in Holy Scripture. These accounts give ample evidence of the truth of the saying, "It is righteousness that exalts a nation." God does not always swiftly pass judgment on a sinful people in this life. Yet many examples show us that when "people follow lying vanities, they forsake their own mercies." As a proud and selfish spirit prevails and spreads among a people, unfair judgment, oppression, discord, envy, and confusion increase. Provinces and kingdoms are made to drink the cup of adversity as the reward for their own actions. Thus the inspired prophet, reasoning with the degenerate Jews, says, "Your own wickedness will correct you, and your backsliding will rebuke you. Know, therefore, that it is an evil and bitter thing that you have forsaken the Lord your God, and that my fear is not in you, says the Lord God of Hosts." Jer. ii. 19. The God of our fathers has given us many benefits. He prepared a table for us in the wilderness and made the deserts and lonely places rejoice. He now mercifully calls on us to serve him more faithfully. We may truly say with the prophet, "It is his voice that cries to the city, and people of wisdom see his name. They heed the rod and him who appointed it." People who look chiefly at outward things give too little thought to the original cause of the present troubles. But those who fear the Lord and often think of his name see and feel that a wrong spirit is spreading among the inhabitants of our country. The hearts of many have grown hardened, and their ears have grown dull of hearing. Instead of calling to us in his visitations, the Most High raises his voice and cries out. He cries to our country, and his voice grows louder and louder. In former wars between the English and other nations since our provinces were settled, the suffering fell chiefly on other places. But lately it has reached our borders. Many of our fellow subjects have suffered on and near our frontiers. Some have been killed in battle, some in their houses, and some in their fields. Some have been wounded and left in great misery. Others have been separated from their wives and little children, who have been carried captive among the Indians. We have seen men and women who witnessed these scenes of sorrow and were reduced to poverty. They have come to our houses asking for relief. Not long ago, many young men in one of these provinces were drafted to serve as soldiers. Some were then in great distress. They had reason to consider how little their lives had conformed to the purity and spirituality of the religion we profess. They found themselves too little acquainted with the inward humility in which people find true strength to endure hardship for the sake of truth. Many parents were concerned for their children. In that time of trial, they were led to consider that they had taken more care to obtain worldly wealth for them than to establish them in their religion. That religion crucifies us to the world and enables us to bear clear witness to the peaceful rule of the Messiah. These troubles have passed, and for a time we are free of them. Let us not forget that "the Most High has his way in the deep, in clouds and in thick darkness." It is his voice that cries to the city and to the country. Oh, may these loud and awakening cries have their proper effect on us, so that heavier punishment may not become necessary! For although outward circumstances may offer a pleasing prospect for a short time, there can be no lasting outward peace and tranquility while a selfish spirit continues to spread and prevail. That spirit refuses to submit to the cross of Christ. If we desire an inheritance that cannot perish and wish to rest in that everlasting state of peace and happiness, let us turn to God with humility and abasement. We have offended him. Let us also turn to him if we desire in this life to live under the favor and protection of the Almighty, whose dwelling is in holiness, whose ways are all just, and whose anger is now kindled because we have turned away from him. Let us regard these beginnings of his coming judgments with reverent awe. Struggling against an equal is hard enough. But if the Lord has become our enemy, and we persist in struggling against him who is all-powerful, our downfall will be unavoidable. Do we care affectionately for future generations and work to promote their happiness? In worldly matters, do our thoughts reach beyond our own deaths? Are we planning for the prosperity of our children after us? Then let us, like wise builders, lay a deep foundation. Let our constant and consistent regard for inward piety and virtue show our children that we truly value them. Let us labor in the fear of the Lord to preserve their innocent minds from corruption while they are young and tender. Then, as they grow older, they may rightly understand their true interests and consider the uncertainty of worldly things. Above all, may their hope and confidence be firmly set on the blessing of the Almighty, who inhabits eternity and preserves and sustains the world. In all our concerns about worldly wealth, let us keep one thing firmly in mind. Wealth left to children who do not truly serve God is likely to become a snare. It may entangle them still more deeply in a spirit of selfishness and pride. That spirit opposes true peace and happiness, and it makes enemies of the cross of Christ of those who yield to its influence. Let us keep a watchful eye out for those truly in need of charity. Let us visit the poor in their lonely homes and comfort those whose lives have been made hard and painful by the workings of divine providence. Let us steadily seek to honor God with our possessions, moved to do so by a true sense of the love of Christ. This is more likely to bring a blessing to our children than an eager desire to gather great wealth to leave behind. It will also give more satisfaction to a Christian blessed with plenty. For "here we have no continuing city." May we therefore diligently "seek one that is to come, whose builder and maker is God." "Finally, Brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are well spoken of, if there is any virtue or anything worthy of praise, think on these things and do them, and the God of peace shall be with you." Signed by seven Friends, appointed to do so on behalf of our meeting.
On the twenty-eighth Day of the eleventh Month, in the Year 1759, I was at the Quarterly-meeting in Bucks County: This Day being the Meeting of Ministers and Elders, my Heart was enlarged in the Love of Jesus Christ; and the Favour of the Most High was extended to us in that and the ensuing Meeting.
On the twenty-eighth day of the eleventh month, 1759, I attended the Quarterly Meeting in Bucks County. That day was the meeting of ministers and elders, and my heart opened in the love of Jesus Christ. The favor of the Most High was extended to us in that meeting and the one that followed.
I had Conversation, at my Lodging, with my beloved Friend, Samuel Eastburn; who expressed a Concern to join in a Visit to some Friends, in that County, who had Negroes; and as I had felt a Draught in my Mind to that Work in the said County, came Home and put Things in Order: On the eleventh Day of the twelfth Month following, I went over the River; and on the next Day was at Buckingham Meeting; where, through the Descendings of heavenly Dew, my Mind was comforted, and drawn into a near Unity with the Flock of Jesus Christ.
At my lodging, I spoke with my beloved friend, Samuel Eastburn. He felt called to join in visiting some Friends in that county who had Negroes. I had also felt drawn to that work in the county, so I went home and put things in order. On the eleventh day of the following twelfth month, I crossed the river. The next day, I attended Buckingham Meeting. There, as heavenly dew descended, my mind was comforted and drawn into close unity with the flock of Jesus Christ.
Entering upon this Visit appeared weighty: And before I left Home my Mind was often sad; under which Exercise I felt, at Times, the Holy Spirit, which helps our Infirmities; through which, in private, my Prayers were, at Times, put up to God, that he would be pleased to purge me from all Selfishness, that I might be strengthened to discharge my Duty faithfully, how hard soever to the natural Part. We proceeded on the Visit in a weighty Frame of Spirit, and went to the Houses of the most active Members, throughout the Country, who had Negroes; and, through the Goodness of the Lord, my Mind was preserved in Resignation in Times of Trial, and, though the Work was hard to Nature, yet through the Strength of that Love which is stronger than Death, Tenderness of Heart was often felt amongst us in our Visits, and we parted from several Families with greater Satisfaction than we expected.
Beginning this visit felt like a serious responsibility. Before I left home, I was often sad. During this time of struggle, I sometimes felt the Holy Spirit, which helps us in our weakness. Through the Spirit, I sometimes prayed privately to God. I asked him to cleanse me of all selfishness, so I might be strengthened to perform my duty faithfully, however hard it might be on my human nature. We continued the visit with a serious spirit. Throughout the country, we went to the homes of the most active members who had Negroes. Through the Lord’s goodness, my mind remained resigned to his will in times of trial. Though the work was hard on our human nature, the strength of that love which is stronger than death often brought tenderness to our hearts during our visits. We parted from several families with greater satisfaction than we had expected.
We visited Joseph White's Family, he being in England; and also a Family-sitting at the House of an Elder who bore us Company, and was at Makefield on a First-day: At all which Times my Heart was truly thankful to the Lord, who was graciously pleased to renew his Loving-kindness to us, his poor Servants, uniting us together in his Work.
We visited Joseph White's family while he was in England. We also had a family sitting at the home of an elder who accompanied us. I was at Makefield on a First-day. At all these times, my heart was truly thankful to the Lord. He graciously renewed his loving-kindness to us, his poor servants, and united us in his work.