Engagements at and near home, 1817.—Visit to some parts of the yearly meetings of Philadelphia and Baltimore, 1817.

First day, the 2d of 2d month, 1817. I was largely led forth in our meeting to-day, on the different dispensations communicated to man by his gracious Creator, in order for his recovery out of the fall, and pointing out to the people the difference between the law state and that of the gospel: showing that the former was a mere figure or prelude to the latter, and that the first, with all its elementary rituals, ceased where the latter begun; the first only affecting the body, the latter principally the soul; the first only the shadow of good things, the latter the substance of all good to man; by which he is altogether redeemed from sin and death, as he submits willingly and fully to the power of the gospel, and is thereby prepared for an inheritance in eternal life.

In the course of this week, besides giving the necessary attention to my temporal affairs, I made several friendly visits to the families of some particular friends, in company with my wife and daughter Elizabeth. Although I met with some occurrences, one in particular, which produced considerable exercise on my mind, yet I had satisfaction in the visits; believing that when they are properly made, they often prove mutually comfortable and encouraging. Sat our meeting on fifth day in silence.

First day, the 9th. Had a silent meeting to-day. This week afforded occasion of deep inward exercise, and seasons of heart-searching, in a view of the manifest declension of many among us from that honest simplicity and faithfulness which so eminently characterized our worthy predecessors, as also the increase of vanity and immorality among the people without; and which I fear may have been increased by the want of faithfulness among us, in the right and full support of our Christian testimonies.

First day, the 16th. Soon after I took my seat in our meeting to-day, my mind was quickened and led into a sympathetic feeling with the state of Elijah, when he fled from the wrath and persecution of Ahab and Jezebel, and when under great discouragement and dismay he bemoaned his condition; saying, that they had pulled down the Lord’s altars, slain his servants, and he only was left and they sought his life; but the Lord told him for his encouragement, that there were seven thousand yet left in Israel, who had not bowed their knee to the image of Baal. But these no doubt were so scattered and dispersed among the people, that Elijah could scarcely find one to whom he might open his mind, and therefore felt himself as one alone. This no doubt is the lot of some of the Lord’s most faithful servants in the present day, and was it not for the same divine help and succour that Elijah experienced, some of these at times would be altogether cast down and discouraged.

The subject spread and enlarged, and opened to a field of doctrine; wherein I was led to show to the people that the mystery of iniquity had wrought in and under every dispensation of God to the Church through its varied transformations, and always resembling as much as may be, an angel of light; by which it lies in wait to deceive, and has generally deceived, and still deceives, the greater part of the people of all the nations under heaven; setting up its post by God’s post, and leading its votaries to perform their worship and works just like the Lord’s servants, with only this difference, that it is done in a way and time of their own heart’s devising. But the Lord’s children are all taught of the Lord, and they are made to know it; for in righteousness they are established, and great is the peace of these children; and there is no peace to the wicked, to such as walk in their own wills, and in the way of their own heart’s devising.

On fifth day of this week, was our monthly meeting, at which we had the company of a Friend in the ministry from one of our upper quarterly meetings. He preached the truth to us in a pretty correct manner; but I thought I never saw, with greater clearness than at this time, that ministers might preach the literal truth, and yet not preach the real gospel: and herein is witnessed the truth of that saying of the apostle, that “the letter,” however true, “killeth;” “but the spirit,” and the spirit only, “giveth life.” And it is a great thing when ministers keep in remembrance that necessary caution of the divine Master, not to premeditate what they shall say; but carefully to wait in the nothingness and emptiness of self, that what they speak may be only what the Holy Spirit speaketh in them; then will they not only speak the truth, but the truth, accompanied with power, and thereby profit the hearers.

First day, 23d. A silent meeting to-day. Nothing transpired in the course of this week, which required particular notice. Sat our meeting on fifth day in silence.

First day, the 2d of 3d month. Having felt my mind for several weeks past drawn to visit Bethpage meeting, I rode thither to-day in company with my wife. It was rather a low dull time, but as I continued in the patience, a small prospect opened on the excellency of justice, and the right bringing up of children. It led to a communication instructive and edifying, for which I was made thankful.

First day, the 9th. This day as I sat in our meeting, my mind was led to view the exalted and precious state those enjoyed, who were brought by their faithfulness to witness in themselves the fulfilment of the first and great commandment, that of loving God above all; as they would thereby likewise know the fulfilment of the second, that of loving their neighbour as themselves. As the subject spread on my mind I believed it right to express it to the assembly, which brought a precious solemnity over the meeting, and, I trust, it was an instructive season to some present.

This week principally spent in the care of my temporal concerns and in lending assistance to the needy, and in the course of which my mind was often attended with comforting ejaculations after this manner. “The Lord is my strength and my song, the lifter up of mine head and my salvation; therefore I will not fear what man can do unto me. He leadeth me about and instructeth me, and preserveth me from the snare of the fowler, and from the strife of tongues.”

First day, the 16th. Our meeting to-day was large and solemn, and mostly silent. A little before the close, an exhortation of the apostle Peter was brought before the view of my mind: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about seeking whom he may devour.” As the subject opened I found it my duty to spread it before the meeting, with some observations thereon, tending to excite the people to diligence, inasmuch as there could be no doubt of the truth of the apostle’s testimony; hence it was necessary for each one to keep the watch, resisting him steadfast in the faith. The communication though short, was so attended with the quickening power of the gospel, as to reach, affect, and tender many minds, and brought a solemn awe over the meeting. Such seasons are worthy of grateful acknowledgments to the blessed Author of all our rich mercies.

Spent this week mostly at and about home, enjoying sweet peace of mind, and the solace of heart-felt thankfulness to the Shepherd of Israel for the unmerited favour. Attended the funeral of a deceased neighbour on fourth day and our monthly meeting on fifth day. The funeral was largely attended by the neighbouring inhabitants, among whom I was led forth vocally to espouse the cause of the gospel, in a large impressive testimony. Many hearts were humbled, and the assembly in general solemnized; may it be to these as bread cast upon the waters, gathered after many days.

First day, the 23d. Our meeting to-day was a season thankfully to be remembered. The subject that arrested my mind and led to communication, was a comparative view of man with the rest of the animal creation; showing that man, although endued with a rational understanding, and blessed with a measure and manifestation of the spirit of God, to guide him infallibly in the way of his duty, had nevertheless swerved much further from the state of rectitude in which he was created, than any other creature; and was much more changeable and unstable than they. This is a sure mark of his fall: and although continually liable and willing to change, to gratify his own will and the humour of others, in following the changeable customs and manners of a vain world; yet averse to that necessary and laudable change, whereby he might regain paradise and renew communion with his Maker. This and much more I was led to open to the auditory, in the demonstration of the spirit, showing the way of man’s return; whereby many minds present were humbled and contrited, and solid satisfaction and comfort afforded to my own.

On fourth day, I attended a marriage at Bethpage. It was, I think, a solid instructive season. On fifth day attended our own meeting which was held in silence. The rest of the week I was busily attentive to my usual avocations.

First day, the 30th. I attended Westbury meeting, wherein my mind was opened into a view of man’s primitive state, the manner and means of his fall, and the way whereby he only can be restored, all which I had largely to spread before the meeting. In addition to this, I had also to caution Friends, particularly the youth, against letting their minds out in their own will and wisdom, into a search and pursuit after forbidden knowledge, particularly that of the origin of evil, which in the present day is a subject of much conversation and inquiry. For man in the beginning was forbidden the knowledge of good and evil, and that command is as binding and obligatory in the present day as it was in the primitive state; therefore all those who presume in their own wills and creaturely wisdom, independent of the teaching of the spirit of God, to know good and evil, do thereby desert God, and so become dead to the divine life; and this is man’s fall, and leads to Deism and Atheism.

I was much engaged in the course of this week in endeavouring to arrange and settle some difficulties in the neighbourhood, and in regulating some of my own temporal affairs. Sat our meeting on fifth day in silence.

First day, the 6th of 4th month. Sat our meeting to-day in silence. In the afternoon at the fourth hour, we had a meeting appointed by a Friend from abroad, who was accompanied by another Friend in the ministry, both of whom appeared in public testimony.

Most of this week I was occupied about home. Attended our preparative meeting on fifth day, which being the time of answering our queries to go forward to the yearly meeting, I was led to make several remarks to Friends to stir them up to more faithfulness, in order that we might profit by the queries, and be prepared to answer them with more clearness and propriety, according to truth and justice.

First day, the 13th. Sat our meeting to-day in silence. This week our monthly meeting was held, at which the state of society as represented by the answers to the queries from our preparative meetings was attended to, and a summary thereof forwarded to the quarterly meeting to be held the following week. This order of reading and answering the queries quarterly, if rightly attended to, and Friends were generally kept lively in spirit, and were zealously engaged for the promotion of truth, would, I believe, be productive of much good to the society: but alas! there are so many who seem lulled asleep in the lap of the world, and their minds clothed with so much indifferency, that it is to them but a dead lifeless form. Surely these reap little or no advantage from their right of membership among us.

Sixth day. Was our preparative meeting of Ministers and Elders, in which nothing transpired worthy of notice.

First day, the 20th. Our meeting to-day, as well as at some former times, has been rather heavy and dull. In the course of this week I attended our quarterly meeting, held at this time at New-York. It was in general rather a low time, although not without some manifestations of divine favour: therefore we had no cause for murmuring but rather of rejoicing, in that we were not cast off and forgotten.

First day, the 27th. Sat our meeting again in silence. My present allotment is to be mostly at home, generally engaged in temporal concerns for myself and others. But, I trust, instead of increasing my love to the world and the things of it, I am fast weaning from it, and my love continually increasing and strengthening to higher and better objects; as my attention to the world and its cares arises from necessity and duty, and not from love, except that I love to do my duty in all respects to God my Creator, and man my fellow creature, believing that there is no real Christianity without it.

Our fifth day meeting was quiet and solemn, wherein I had to remind Friends that it was not enough to say with Peter, when queried of by his Master whether he loved him, “yea Lord,” for this is no more than every professor is ready to say, although they may be quite void of any true sense thereof; but we must come to know him and love him in such manner, as when brought to a full trial of our faith and love, we can say as Peter did in his third answer: “Lord thou knowest all things, thou knowest that I love thee.” For this is the situation of mind which prepares to be at his disposal, and to endure hardness for his sake in the Christian warfare.

First day, the 4th of 5th month. My mind was led into an interesting view and reflection on the following gracious invitation of our Lord: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me: for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” As the subject spread on my mind attended with a degree of life, I was constrained to communicate the prospect, showing that Christ’s yoke was nothing less nor more than the revealed will of his, and our, heavenly Father; which, as it is faithfully submitted to, yokes down and keeps in subjection every desire and propensity of the human mind which stands in opposition thereto. So that the creature hereby knows God’s kingdom to be come, and his will to be done, in earth as it is done in heaven; and the reward of rest and peace promised in the closing part of the invitation is experienced.

The following part of this week spent principally in my usual vocations, except attending our preparative meeting on fifth day; and at the third hour in the afternoon, the funeral of our Friend Joshua Powell of Westbury, who was taken from us after a short illness, by a sudden inflammation and mortification in one of his arms. How true is that saying of the prophet: “All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as the flower of the field; the grass withereth, the flower fadeth;” just such is man, alive to-day, to-morrow is dead. This subject very sensibly impressed my mind at the funeral, and led to an awakening communication, which had a very reaching effect on the assembly. I hope the word that went forth will not return void, but prove a blessing to some who were present.

First day, the 11th. Our meeting to-day was a trying season, but little felt of the real virtue and life of religion. It seemed as though we were in a worse condition than the multitude formerly; for there was a lad found among them with five barley loaves and a few fishes, which served for the blessing to operate upon and enlarge, so as to suffice the multitude and leave fragments remaining; but we were almost, or altogether destitute of any thing for the blessing of heaven to act upon. Therefore we ought not to murmur, although we were sent empty away.

Except attending our monthly meeting on fifth day, and assisting some of my neighbours to settle their business in which a dispute had arisen, I was principally occupied in my temporal concerns through the week.

First day, the 18th. A silent meeting to-day. The rest of this week busily employed preparatory to leaving home to attend our approaching yearly meeting. Left home early on seventh day morning, and got into the city seasonably to attend the opening of the yearly meeting of Ministers and Elders at the tenth hour. On second day at the same hour, the meeting for discipline opened, and continued by adjournments until the seventh day following. In the forenoon of that day at about eleven o’clock it closed, under a comfortable evidence that the divine presence presided; and which, with thankfulness and gratitude we have humbly to acknowledge, has, in gracious condescension, been vouchsafed to us in the several sittings of our large solemn assembly, in as great, if not greater degree, than has been witnessed in any previous season: tending to unite all the rightly concerned members in a living travail, for the promotion of the cause of truth and righteousness, and the spreading and exaltation of those precious testimonies given us as a people to bear for the Prince of Peace.

First day, the 1st of 6th month. Attended our own meeting to-day in humbling silence. Spent the week at and about home, except attending the funeral of our ancient Friend Isaac Underhill of Flushing, on sixth day; on which occasion a meeting was held in Friends’ meeting-house at that place. It was a very solemn, and, I trust, a profitable season to some present. My mouth was opened among them to testify of the things concerning the kingdom of God, in a large affecting testimony, whereby many hearts were contrited and made humbly thankful for the present favour, and I was glad in believing that the Lord is still mindful of his people, and is graciously disposed to strengthen and support them in the needful time; as their eye is kept single to him, looking to him only for help and salvation.

First day, the 8th. Had a comfortable meeting to-day. The testimony to the power of truth went forth freely to the people, comforting and contriting many minds present. This is the Lord’s doing and is worthy of grateful acknowledgments from his people, for such continued yet unmerited mercy.

On third day I attended a meeting at Bethpage, appointed by our friends Elizabeth Coggeshall and Ann Shipley of New-York, who were now among us on a religious visit. It was, I think, a season of great favour; not only the two women appeared in seasonable and appropriate testimonies, tending to gather the minds of the people into a very comfortable solemnity, but also, my heart and mouth were opened in a large affecting testimony, which found a ready entrance into the minds of most present, breaking down all opposition and contriting many hearts by the prevalence of truth, which ran as oil over all. After this, our friend Elizabeth closed the service in solemn supplication. It was a day of favour, worthy of grateful remembrance.

On fifth day I attended our preparative meeting, in which I had some service for the promotion of truth’s cause. The four other days of this week, I spent in my usual necessary avocations.

First day, the 15th. Nothing in particular to remark respecting the exercise of this day.

On the fourth day of this week, our monthly meeting was held, in which I was led into some close searching exercise, in order to stir up Friends to more diligence and circumspection, that so their light might shine forth to the help of others, and their conduct appear consonant with their profession. In this meeting I found it expedient and consistent with my duty, to open to Friends a prospect and concern which had for a considerable time rested on my mind, to pay a visit in gospel love, to Friends and others in some parts of the yearly meetings of Philadelphia and Baltimore. The subject obtained the solid attention of the meeting, and some Friends were appointed to confer with me on the subject, and, as way opened, prepare an essay of a certificate for that purpose, and produce it to our next meeting.

First day, the 22d. Whilst sitting in our meeting to-day, my mind was led into a view of the great and singular advantages that would accrue to the children of men, from their having right and just ideas of religion, the want of which was the principal cause of all the distress and misery that fell to their lot, both here and hereafter. The subject spread, and, as I communicated, opened to a large field of doctrine, which had a very reaching effect upon the assembly, and a very precious solemnity was spread over the meeting; for which my heart was made truly glad, with that gladness that hath no sorrow with it.

The rest of the week I was busily employed in the care of my temporal concerns, which nevertheless has no tendency, if kept within right bounds, to prevent internal religious exercises, and spiritual meditations and soliloquies. Sat our fifth day meeting in silence.

First day, the 29th. I sat our meeting to-day in a sense of great weakness, in which I realized the truth of David’s testimony: “Verily every man at his best estate is altogether vanity.”

Except attending in silent meditation our fifth day meeting, and the funeral of the only daughter of my brother Samuel, on seventh day, I was engaged as usual during the week, in my family cares; which indeed is an arduous task, if rightly performed, and every department duly cared for in its right season, consistent with our moral and religious duty. The funeral mentioned above was a solemn one, in which I was largely led forth to testify of the things concerning the kingdom of God; opening the way of life and salvation to the people, in the demonstration of the spirit. The assembly were generally solemnized by the efficacy of the power which attended, and truth raised into victory over all. Such favours are truly worthy of deep heart-felt gratitude and thanksgiving to the God and Father of all our sure mercies, who is over all, worthy for ever.

First day, the 6th of 7th month. Soon after I took my seat in our meeting to-day, my mind was opened into a view of the great need man stands in of a Saviour, and that nothing can give him so full and lively a sense thereof, as a true sight and sense of his own real condition; by which he is not only brought to see the real want of a Saviour, but is also shown thereby, what kind of a Saviour he needs. For it must not only be one, who is continually present, but who is possessed of a prescience sufficient to see, at all times, all man’s enemies, and every temptation that may or can await him; and have power sufficient to defend him from all, and at all times. Therefore, such a Saviour as man wants, cannot be one without him, but must be one that is always present, just in the very place man’s enemies assault him, which is within, in the very temple of the heart: as no other Saviour but such an one, who takes his residence in the very centre of the soul of man, can possibly produce salvation to him: hence, for man to look for a Saviour or salvation any where else, than in the very centre of his own soul, is a fatal mistake, and must consequently land him in disappointment and errour.

I was led forth to communicate largely to the people on the subject; and on the blessed effects that do, and will result to all those who find such a Saviour, and who, in humility and sincerity of heart, follow him faithfully in the way of his leadings. It was a solemn season, and a day thankfully to be remembered.

I was taken up principally the rest of this week, except attending our preparative meeting on fifth day, in my hay harvest. It is a laborious season; and is made much more so by reason of there being so few faithful labourers, among those who offer themselves as such. Most of them are more anxiously careful how they may obtain the highest wages, than to be engaged honestly to strive justly to earn them. This makes the care and oversight of such business rather irksome and unpleasant, which otherwise would be agreeable and often delightful.

First day, the 13th. I sat our meeting in silence. This week I was mostly taken up in caring for and assisting in, my hay harvest. For by the fertility of the season, our fields have brought forth plenteously. On fifth day our monthly meeting was held, in which Friends united with the concern I had laid before them at the preceding monthly meeting, to pay a visit in gospel love to Friends and others, in some parts of the yearly meetings of Philadelphia and Baltimore. A certificate was prepared for the purpose, leaving me at liberty to proceed therein, as way should open.

First day, the 20th. A solemn, and, I trust, a profitable meeting to-day, in which the gospel was preached freely in the demonstration of truth, and a precious covering was felt to spread over the assembly; and sweet peace clothed my mind at the conclusion. Surely the Lord is a bountiful and rich rewarder of all his faithful servants, who serve him, not for reward, but for the sake of that love wherewith he loveth them, and which he so abundantly sheddeth abroad in their hearts, that they are thereby drawn to love him above all; and in and under the influence of this precious love, they are led and constrained to serve and worship him freely for his own sake, because he is worthy, and not for any reward to themselves, because they are altogether unworthy; and because that precious love wherewith he hath loved them, and with which he hath filled their hearts, hath banished and dispelled therefrom every germ of self-love, and all kind of selfishness. Nevertheless, of his own rich bounty and free will, without any real merit on our part, he abundantly and plenteously bestoweth his blessings upon all his faithful servants and children, whereby their love to him is continually increased, until he becomes their all in all, their alpha and omega, and they are brought into the possession of that perfect love that casteth out all fear; and in which they are enabled continually to worship and adore Him who liveth for ever, and who only is everlastingly worthy of all blessing and praise.

In the course of this week was our quarterly meeting, which was held at this time at Westbury. It was a season of exercise to all who were concerned for the promotion of right order in the Church; and much counsel, reproof, and admonition, were communicated, under right influence, to stir up the negligent and refractory members to more faithfulness and attention to their several duties, and a more full submission to the manifestations of divine grace in their own minds, that they may be thereby strengthened to arise, and shake themselves from the dust of the earth, and separate themselves from those hindering and annoying things, which divert and turn them aside from their Christian duty, and those things in which their best interest consists. The meeting for worship was likewise a favoured season. Many very important truths of the gospel were clearly opened in the demonstration of the spirit; and the meeting closed under a thankful sense of the unmerited mercy; and the living among us separated to their several homes with grateful hearts.

I laid before this meeting my prospect of a religious visit as aforementioned, and received the unity and concurrence of the men’s and women’s meetings; and an endorsement thereof was made on my certificate. Being now left at liberty, and separated to the work whereunto I believed myself called by the Holy Spirit, and knowing my own insufficiency, and that of myself I can do nothing, all that remains for me is to cast my care wholly on him, in full faith, who hath called me; and, as I abide in the patience and in a full submission to his heavenly will, he that putteth his servants forth, will in his own right time go before them and make way for them, without which there is no way; and will make darkness light before them, and not forsake, but safely carry them through and over all the opposition and discouragements, that either men or devils may or can cast in the way, to the exceeding praise of his grace, and to the glory and exaltation of his great and excellent name, who is over all, God blessed for ever.

First day, the 27th. My mind while sitting in our meeting to-day, was led into a view of the great necessity there was of more faithfulness and attention to the inward principle of divine truth, or inward teacher in the mind, as professed by us as a people. For want of this, many were led into divers errours and deficiencies, which in their tendency not only led to great weakness, but to the encouragement of evil doers in their evil practices; a sight and sense of which had for some time been a cause of much exercise to my mind. The subject became very impressive, insomuch that I found it necessary to spread it before the meeting in a large arousing testimony; laying before the auditory the great danger many were in for want of a living concern to work out, through the assistance of divine grace, their salvation while the day of visitation was lengthened out. For nothing short of a full submission to the operation of divine truth on their minds could fit and prepare them for the awful approaching season, when the pale-faced messenger shall arraign us before the judgment seat of Him, whom we can neither awe nor bribe, to give an account of the deeds done in the body, whether good or evil. A solemn weight spread over the meeting and many minds appeared to be deeply humbled. May the exhortation be fixed in their remembrance, as a nail in a sure place that may not be moved, is the fervent desire of my mind.

The rest of this week I was busily employed in endeavouring so to arrange my temporal matters, that when I leave home on the prospect before me, I may feel my mind at full liberty therefrom, and that no occasion may be given, through the medium of any of my temporal engagements, for the enemies of truth to gainsay or find fault, to the disadvantage or reproach of the great and dignified cause I was about to embark in. For I have been led to believe some who have gone out on this solemn embassy, for want of this care have given too much occasion for censure, and have thereby wounded the cause they have proposed to promote, and brought much exercise on the minds of the faithful.

On fifth day at our meeting, my mind was deeply bowed in commemoration of the Lord’s continued mercies, and that indeed it might be said of us as it was of Israel formerly, that it was of the Lord’s mercies we were not consumed; and I was made thankful in believing, that there was a small remnant who were preserved faithful to his name and cause, and who were the salt of the society, and for whose sake he would not utterly cast us off nor forsake us. Surely it is of his unmerited mercy that we are not swallowed up in the mass of the people, and numbered among the unstable multitude who have no sure and solid foundation to rest their hopes upon, but are trusting in a ceremonial religion, of man’s invention; all which in the day of trial will fail them, and afford no succour to the soul.

First day, the 3d of 8th month. My mind was brought under exercise in our meeting to-day, in a view of the great want of diligent attention to the light within, or that measure of the spirit given to every one of God’s rational creatures to profit withal; even those who were so far convinced as to acknowledge its excellence, yet were almost daily neglecting its reproofs, and turning aside from its teachings; by which their understandings became darkened, and they were left in a dwarfish unstable condition, without any solid ground of hope. The subject spread, and my mind was led into a large arousing testimony, setting forth the danger of such a state, and the fatal consequences that would naturally and certainly follow such delinquency if continued in. Truth prevailed, and many minds were sensibly bowed and affected by its power, and a very general solemnity spread over the meeting, to the praise of Him who is calling all his faithful and obedient children out of darkness into his marvellous light. The rest of the week spent as usual without occasion for any remark.

First day, the 10th. A peaceful quiet meeting to-day in silent waiting. The rest of the week, except attending our meeting for sufferings and preparative meeting on fifth day, was taken up in my outward business; with a steady view to my religious engagement, that with all readiness I might be prepared to embark therein when the full time arrived.

First day, the 17th. A silent meeting. This week was taken up preparatory to my journey. Attended our monthly meeting on fifth day, and feeling my mind drawn towards an opportunity with the people of colour before I left home, I mentioned it to the meeting; and with the unity of Friends, a meeting was appointed for them on the following first day at the fourth hour in the afternoon. I also gave Friends of Bethpage meeting information, that I felt my mind drawn to sit with them in their meeting the next first day, and left them at liberty to inform their neighbours thereof.

First day, the 24th. Agreeably to my prospect I attended Bethpage meeting in the forenoon. It was large, and I think, greatly favoured with the overshadowing wing of divine kindness. Truth rose into dominion, and bowed the assembly by the prevalence of its power, for which my spirit was made deeply thankful.

The meeting for the coloured people was held at the fourth hour, and I was enabled to clear my mind among them, although it was a season of hard labour. After this I felt my mind clear to set forward on my intended journey.

Fourth day, the 27th of 8th month. I left home in the afternoon in order to accomplish my contemplated visit to Friends and others, in some parts of the yearly meetings of Philadelphia and Baltimore. My son-in-law Valentine Hicks, accompanied me in the journey. Feeling my mind drawn to attend the meeting of Friends at Flushing the next day, we rode there and lodged. Notice being given in the neighbourhood of my intention to be there, the meeting was large, and the Lord graciously manifested himself to be near, and enabled me to discharge myself faithfully among them under the feeling influence of gospel love. Many hearts were contrited and truth appeared in dominion over all, for which favour I was made reverently thankful, not only on my own account and the account of those present, but especially so on account of my dear family and friends at home, who gave me up with great reluctance on account of my present bodily indisposition, being under the pressure of a heavy cold and very hard cough, which, in their apprehensions, rendered me unable to travel in so arduous a service until I might be recovered therefrom. But the time appearing to be come for my setting out, and the way appearing open, I considered it safest to cast my care wholly upon Him in faith, who, I believed, had called me to the work; and that as I continued to go forward, as he was graciously pleased to open the way and make it clear before me, all would be well, whether it terminated in life or in death.

The next day, being the sixth of the week, we had an appointed meeting in Friends’ meeting-house, at the Kilns, in Newtown. The meeting there, had been discontinued for a number of years, and now there was but one member of our society left in the neighbourhood. There was, however, a considerable number of people of other persuasions collected; and the Lord graciously condescended to enable me to preach the gospel among them, and to open divers doctrines of the Christian religion, suited to their several conditions, in the demonstration of truth, for their consideration and instruction. The people were very solemn and quiet; and, I hope, the labour will not prove in vain, but be to some of them, as bread cast upon the waters, gathered after many days. We rode, after this meeting, to New-York, and rested on seventh day.

First day, the 31st. We attended Pearl-street meeting in the morning, and that at Liberty-street, in the afternoon. They were both full meetings; and, although I was still under considerable bodily indisposition, yet, through condescending goodness, I was strengthened to discharge myself faithfully in both opportunities, and felt peace in my labours of love among them; being led in each meeting to declare largely of the things concerning the kingdom of God, and to point out to the people, in a clear manner, the way to peace and salvation.

On second day afternoon, we proceeded on our journey to Newark, a town in New Jersey, where we attended a meeting at the fourth hour, previous notice having been given in the town, of our coming. I had had several meetings there before; but this was larger than usual for the place. There is no member of our society residing in the town; the inhabitants being principally of the Presbyterian order. All was quiet, and a general solemnity spread over the meeting; and truth and its testimony were raised into dominion. Surely, it is the Lord’s doing, and my spirit was made gratefully thankful for the unmerited favour.

The next day we attended a meeting appointed for us in Elizabethtown. Here, likewise, there is no member of our society. The meeting was small, yet through condescending goodness it proved, I trust, a comfortable instructive season to some present; and I parted with them in peace of mind, the sure reward of faithfulness.

From this place, we rode home with our kind friend Henry Shotwell, of Rahway, who met us here. The next day we attended Friends’ meeting at Plainfield. Notice having been given that we intended to be there, the meeting was large, in which the Lord’s power was manifested, and his arm made bare for our help; and through which, way was made and utterance given, to preach the glad tidings of life and salvation to the people, in the demonstration of the spirit. Many hearts were broken and contrited by the prevalence of its power. May the glory and the praise be all ascribed to our gracious Helper, for such continued mercy; for he only is worthy thereof, as nothing is due to the creature, but blushing and confusion of face.

After this favoured meeting, we rode back, towards evening, to Rahway. The next day, being the fifth of the week, we attended Friends’ meeting there. The meeting was much enlarged by many of the neighbouring inhabitants coming in, who were not members. Many gospel truths were opened to their consideration, and its power ran as oil over the assembly, silencing all opposition, and a perfect calm was witnessed to spread over all. I have not often beheld such a perfect quiet; such seasons are truly encouraging, and worthy of thanksgiving and praise to the blessed Author of such unmerited favours.

On sixth day morning, we took leave of our kind friends at Rahway, and rode to Mendham, alias, Randolph. The next day we had an appointed meeting there, at the tenth hour, which proved a solemn, instructive season. I left them with peace of mind, and proceeded that afternoon to Hardwick. The following day being the first of the week, we attended Friends’ meeting there. It was large for the place, as notice had been given that we expected to be there. And, through heavenly help, the gospel was preached in the demonstration of the spirit; and, by the influence of its power, a general solemnity was spread over the assembly, and many hearts were broken and contrited.

On second day we proceeded to Stroudsburgh, in Pennsylvania, where we arrived about three o’clock in the afternoon. Here we had a meeting, by appointment, the next day, at the third hour. It was well attended by the Friends of that place, and many of the neighbouring inhabitants; and was a very solid, instructive season. Surely, such unmerited favours greatly enhance our obligations to our all-gracious Benefactor, and tend to inspire the minds of his humble dependant children with gratitude and thanksgiving.

From this place we proceeded to Richland, and attended Friends’ meeting on fifth day. It was much enlarged by many who were not members coming in. From thence we went to Plumbstead, where, by previous appointment, we had a meeting the next day. Both these meetings were seasons of favour. Surely, it is cause of deep humiliation, when we consider the many sorrowful deviations which are obvious among us from the simplicity and purity of our holy profession, and the great want of faithfulness in the support of those noble testimonies given us to bear, for the Prince of peace: yet, nevertheless, in the midst of all our backslidings, the condescending goodness of our heavenly Father is such, as to break the bread and distil the water of life, often, on our gathered assemblies; satisfying the hungry and thirsty soul, and causing his heavenly rain to descend on the thoughtless and worldly-minded professors, whose hearts are like the dry and barren ground, in order that they may be softened and rendered fit for the seed of his heavenly kingdom to take root in and grow, to the praise of his grace, and the glory of his great and excellent name.

From Plumbstead we proceeded to Buckingham, and rested on seventh day, as I was still unwell with a cough, although much better than when I left home. On first day we attended Friends’ meeting here, which was large, and favoured with the overshadowings of the heavenly Father’s regard, which caused the faithful to rejoice. On second day we rested with our ancient and worthy friend, Oliver Paxton, who was under deep bodily affliction, and appeared drawing fast towards his close. He was lively in spirit, and cheerfully and patiently resigned to his heavenly Master’s will. It was comfortable and instructive to be in his company.

On third day we were at Solebury meeting, of which our aforesaid friend was a member; and, although in much weakness and affliction of body, he accompanied us thereto, and a blessed meeting we had. After this, I parted with him in near unity of spirit, which was a final parting to us, as to the body: for he lived but a short time after. He was an elder and judge in Israel; and his memory will be precious to all the living, who were acquainted with him, and knew his worth.

The three following days we attended meetings at Wright’s Town, Makefield, and Newtown. These were all large, favoured meetings, in which the power of truth was exalted over all opposition.

On seventh day we rested, and wrote to our families.

On first day, the 21st of 9th month, we attended Horsham meeting, which was very large. Strength was afforded me to communicate to the people, and open many gospel truths, to the relief of my own mind, and, I trust, to the general satisfaction, comfort and instruction of the assembly, which was composed of various denominations of professed Christians, besides Friends.

Second and third days. We attended meetings at Upper Dublin and North Wales. In both of these meetings the heavenly Father’s power and presence were felt to preside, in an eminent degree, breaking down and reducing by its blessed influence all opposing and contrary spirits, and covering the assemblies with a precious solemnity, especially the latter, in which, truth reigned triumphantly over all.

On fourth day we had an appointed meeting in a village called Norristown. It was held in their court-house, there being only a few scattered members of our society living in the place. The meeting was pretty large, principally of people of other professions; among whom was the chief judge, and several lawyers and priests. All were quiet, and through the condescending goodness of the Shepherd of Israel, it was, I trust and believe, to most present, a very instructive and precious season.

Fifth and sixth days. We were at Friends’ meetings as they came in course, at Plymouth and Providence. Notice having been given of our coming, they were much enlarged by the attendance of the neighbours who were not members. These were precious opportunities, in which help was afforded to preach the gospel of life and salvation to the people, accompanied with a power which broke down and subjected all to its blessed influence; for which unmerited favour, the hearts of the faithful were made to rejoice, and in deep humiliation, to return thanksgiving and praise to the benevolent and gracious Author of all our blessings.

On seventh day we rested at Charlestown. On first day attended the meeting at that place, which was large, many more attending than the house could contain. The three following days we attended meetings at the Valley, Pikeland, and Nantmill. These were all precious meetings, in which the Lord’s presence and power were manifested for our help.

On fifth day we proceeded to Columbia, a town situated on the east side of the river Susquehannah. We had an appointed meeting there the next day, in which truth prevailed; nevertheless, a hireling priest who attended the meeting, afterwards made some objection to the doctrine delivered, as it counteracted his traditional belief concerning the atonement, the carnal ordinances of water baptism, and the outward bread and wine, and preaching for hire, and the scriptures being the only rule of faith and practice; the fallacy and inutility of all which had been laid open and exposed. This roused his opposition; and indeed, it is not to be wondered at, as it goes to overthrow all their craft, by which they have their wealth.

We proceeded from thence to Little York, and rested on seventh day. On first day, attended Friends’ meeting there. It was a pretty large, favoured meeting, but not feeling my mind fully clear, I proposed another meeting in the evening; and, notice being given accordingly, it was very large, more than the house could contain. It was a blessed meeting, in which the Lord’s presence and power were manifested, and truth raised into dominion over all.

The four following days, we had meetings at Newbury, Warrington, Huntington and Menallen. In these opportunities my mind was much engaged to turn the attention of the people from man, and from all dependance on any thing without them, to the inward principle of divine light and truth, the great gospel minister; which, as it is heeded and obeyed, leadeth into all truth, and out of all errour; and without whose teaching, the true and saving knowledge of God and Christ, which only brings eternal life to the soul, can never be obtained, although we may be favoured to sit under the most powerful gospel ministry, through the instrumentality of man, however divinely qualified to that end, from youth to old age. For all that the best outward instrumental help, either from reading the scriptures, or hearing the gospel preached in the clear demonstration of the spirit, can do for any man, is only to point to, and lead the minds of the children of men home to this divine inward principle, manifested in their own hearts and minds.

These were all favoured, instructive seasons, worthy of grateful remembrance.

From Menallen we rode to Baltimore, in order to attend the yearly meeting at that place, where we arrived on sixth day evening, the 10th of 10th month. The yearly meeting of Ministers and Elders opened the next day at the tenth hour, and the yearly meeting for discipline at the tenth hour, on the following second day; and continued by adjournments until the next sixth day at evening, when the meeting closed under an evident sense of divine favour, and which had been graciously extended through the several sittings of the meeting. I had much general and particular service in the course of the meetings, both in those for worship, and those for discipline; tending to gather Friends’ minds, to an inward, faithful exercise for the support and promotion of those noble testimonies, that we, as a people, are called to bear for the Prince of Peace; and for the exaltation of truth and righteousness in the earth. The Lord our gracious helper, by his presence and power, manifested himself to be near, setting home the doctrines delivered to his witness in the hearts of most present; whereby Friends appeared generally to be united in spirit, and comforted together under a renewed sense of the Lord’s goodness; and we parted from each other with thankful hearts.

The meeting being ended, we left the city the next morning, in order to take a few meetings which lay westerly, or southwesterly from this place. We were out from the city about two weeks, and attended the following meetings, viz: Pipe Creek, Bush Creek, Fairfax, Goose Creek, South Fork, Alexandria, Washington, Sandy Spring, Indian Spring, and Elk-Ridge. All favoured meetings, in which the Lord’s power and presence were manifested for our help, enabling to preach the gospel in the authority of truth, to the comfort and instruction of the honest seekers, and rejoicing the hearts of the faithful, and administering reproof and caution to the disobedient and ungodly, and to such as are living at ease without God in the world. I felt sweet peace in my labours of love among them.

After the latter meeting, we returned again to Baltimore on sixth day afternoon, the 31st of 10th month. Here we continued until the 11th of 11th month, not only attending Friends’ usual meetings as they came in course in the city, but likewise their monthly meetings, and quarterly meeting, which were held during the time. In all of these I was led into much exercise and religious labour, both in the ministry and in the discipline and order of the Church. We had, likewise, during our stay in the city, three very large, satisfactory evening meetings with the citizens at large. Two were for the white people, and one for the people of colour. I was led forth among them, and strengthened largely to declare of the things concerning the kingdom of God, and to open to their consideration divers important doctrines of the gospel, in the authority and demonstration of truth, apparently to their general satisfaction, and to the comfort and edification of my friends, and the solid peace of my own mind. I then took leave of them, under the precious uniting influence of the heavenly Father’s love, and the covering of deep thankfulness and gratitude for the unmerited favour.

On third day, the 11th of the month, we left the city and proceeded to a place called the Bush, where there is a small meeting of Friends. The three following days we attended meetings at that place, at Deer Creek, and East Nottingham, all favoured seasons. After the latter meeting on seventh day, we proceeded to Wilmington, and attended Friends’ meetings there the next day, both forenoon and afternoon, in which truth favoured with ability to preach the gospel in the demonstration of the spirit, suited, I trust, to the states of many, or most, of the people which composed those large assemblies, and I left them with peace of mind.

On second day I rode to London Grove, accompanied by my kind friend William Poole of Brandywine, my companion being disposed to tarry a day longer at Wilmington. On third day the quarterly meeting opened there with a meeting of Ministers and Elders; in which I was led to open to Friends of that meeting, the great obligations and accountability which attached to those who consented to take seats in such meetings. For it placed us in the front of society, and consequently we were looked to as the leaders of the people; and therefore if we should fall short in faithfully holding up those precious testimonies we are called to bear for the Prince of Peace, and in leading forward the flock by advancing the reformation as truth opens the way, we shall become stumbling blocks in the way of the honest travellers, and thereby shut up their way to improvement, by which they may be discouraged and fall back and be lost; in consequence whereof it is to be feared, their blood might be required at the hands of such unfaithful and dilatory shepherds. It was an instructive searching opportunity, in which truth prevailed in an humbling degree.

The next day was the meeting for discipline. It was also a very favoured searching season, in which many of the hidden things of Esau or the first nature were brought to light and exposed, and the careless worldly-minded professors reproved, and the honest-hearted comforted and encouraged.

After this, feeling a draft of love to those not in membership with us, I proposed an opportunity for them the next day; and Friends uniting therewith, a meeting was accordingly appointed. It was a large gathering and mercifully owned by the Head of the Church, by the gracious manifestation of his divine presence; under the blessed influence of which, the gospel was preached in the demonstration of the spirit, and I parted with them under a thankful sense of the Lord’s mercy, accompanied with a peaceful mind, and rode that afternoon to Concord.

On sixth day we rode to Darby and lodged with our kind friend Edward Garrigues, who accompanied us the next morning to Philadelphia. Here we continued about a week, attending Friends’ meetings in the city as they came in course. As information of our coming had spread in the town the meetings were greatly thronged, and at some places many more than the houses could contain; people of varied professions, and some of almost every description, high and low, appeared eager to attend. It seemed a renewed visitation to the people in general, Friends and others; and not only at meetings but in Friends’ families where we visited, large numbers, especially of the younger classes, would soon collect; so that those opportunities were made seasons of instruction and edification. For the Lord, I believe, beheld them with a gracious eye, and opened my heart and mouth in converse and communication, to the comfort and satisfaction of their inquiring minds, and enabled me in each meeting to communicate in the line of the gospel in large impressive testimonies, affording instruction, comfort and edification to the assemblies in general; and I felt a great power of love to flow freely towards them, which caused my heart to rejoice, and I was made glad in believing that it was the Lord’s doing, and it was marvellous in mine eyes.

After I had got through Friends’ meetings, I felt my mind drawn to have a public opportunity for those not of our society; and Friends uniting therewith, it was concluded to be held on the evening of sixth day. Friends apprehending that the numbers who would be desirous of attending would be very great, it was appointed at Mulberry-street, their largest house. As the notice was given at the monthly meeting at that house, Friends likewise appointed a large committee of men and women to have the oversight of its gathering, and to keep Friends out until their neighbours should first have seats: but the number that collected of other people was so great, that it was supposed as many went away after the house was filled, and the yard around the house as far as they could hear, as there was in the house. Every avenue in the house was filled with people, standing as close as they could crowd together. Such a collection of people I never saw together before on any such occasion. It was with great difficulty that I got into the meeting, and when I had taken my seat, in viewing the crowded state of the multitude, I was ready to fear that the pressure of the people upon one another would destroy the solemnity of the meeting; but as I centered down to the gift, life and strength sprang up, and faith was increased; and the Lord made bare his arm for our help, and soon opened my mouth among them, which brought a precious calm over the assembly. Indeed I could scarcely have thought it possible had I not seen it, that such a large promiscuous multitude, made up almost of every description of people, should in a few moments be brought into such a perfect state of quiet and remain so for hours, until the meeting closed; especially as in the midst of the meeting while I was communicating, some ill advised persons, in order to disturb the meeting, made a great cry of fire, rattling their engines along the street near the house, but it had no tendency to break the solemnity of the meeting. My heart and all that was alive within me, was bowed in humble thankfulness to the Lord our gracious helper, for such a marvellous and unmerited favour. As my whole man was filled with a flow of heavenly love to the multitude, it was likewise very comfortable to feel a mutual return from them, for all that could come near me manifested it, both by conduct and converse; such a time I never witnessed before: surely it was the Lord’s doing, and to him belongs all the praise and glory of his own work, nothing due to the creature but blushing and confusion of face. So let it be. Amen, saith my spirit.

After having got thus favourably through my service in the city, the next morning I took an affectionate farewell of my friends there, in much unity of spirit, and passed over the Delaware to Newtown, in Jersey: where by previous appointment I had a meeting at the eleventh hour. A considerable number of Friends accompanied me thither from the city. Here we had another precious instructive meeting. The next day being the first of the week, we attended Friends’ meeting at Woodbury; and notice being spread of our intention of being there it was unusually large; and through the condescending goodness of Him who opens and none can shut, my heart and mouth were opened in a large effective testimony, in which was opened to the people divers of the most essential doctrines of Christianity, I trust, to the general instruction and edification of those present, and to the comfort and peace of my own mind.

The seven following days we attended meetings at Mullica Hill, Upper Greenwich, Penn’s Neck, Piles Grove, Salem, Alloway’s Creek, and Lower Greenwich. These were all large favoured meetings, particularly the one at Salem; at which place the county court was then sitting, which was adjourned by the judge in order to give the people generally an opportunity to attend the meeting, which they did; the judge and lawyers with the rest of the court also attended. The gospel was preached to them and the doctrines of Christianity largely opened, apparently to the satisfaction of all; and truth was raised into dominion over all that was contrary to its blessed influence.

From the latter place we proceeded on second day, the 8th of 12th month, to Morris River, alias Port Elizabeth, where we had a very instructive edifying meeting the next day. The day following we rode to Little Eggharbour; and the next day being the fifth of the week, we attended Friends’ monthly meeting there. The meeting for worship was favoured, and truth prevailed by way of testimony; and many gospel truths were opened to the consideration of the people, whereby many hearts were humbled and contrited.

The meeting for discipline was very weakly conducted. The order of truth being at a low ebb with Friends of this place, and but little hope of improvement, unless the younger classes in society come forward in more faithfulness than their elder brethren have done. For most of the few that are left appeared to be settling on their lees, without any thought or prospect of advancing the noble testimonies we are called to bear.

Our next meeting was at Barnegat: the day being rainy it was small, yet a precious favoured season. The next day being the seventh of the week we rode to Squan, and the two following days attended the meeting at that place and at Squancum; but the weather being still rainy, these were also small meetings: but the power of truth being present for our help, rendered the opportunities instructive and edifying. After the latter meeting we proceeded to Shrewsbury, and on third day, the 16th of 12th month, we had an appointed meeting there which was large and satisfactory. Many gospel truths were fully and clearly opened to the apparent satisfaction, and, I trust, to the instruction and edification of the assembly in general. It was a very solemn meeting, in which truth was raised into dominion, humbling and contriting many hearts; and which brought my religious labours in this journey to a peaceful close.

After this, the three following days I passed directly home, and found my dear wife, children, and grand-children in usual health, to our mutual rejoicing. For this favour, together with the continued evidence of the divine favour which had accompanied me in this journey, strengthening and enabling me from day to day, faithfully to perform the work and service the Lord had appointed me, my mind was impressed with deep thankfulness and gratitude for the unmerited mercy.

Praise the Lord, O my soul! and forget not any of his benefits, for he hath dealt bountifully with thee, and set thee above all thine enemies, to the exaltation of his own glorious name and power; and who is God over all, blessed for ever.