THE FIRST PART OF Babel's-Builders Unmasking Themselves.  
As appears by the following Judgement from Barbadoss (promoted by George Fox his Party, and subscribed by Eighty two of them.) With a LETTER of G. F's. G. W's. etc. in Answer thereunto; and Observations thereupon. Also, A False Prophecy of that Lying Prophet Sol. Eccles.  
Whereas the following Discourse was formerly Printed and privately Disposed, to those Concerned, or privy to the Controversy depending, amongst those called Quakers, but finding some of G. F's. Party have since Publicly Exposed it with Slanderous and false Charges on the Author, This second Impression, with some small Addition, is now made Public, in Detestation of the Principle contained in the Judgement and Letter of G. F. etc. Being of Evil tendency, and contrary to the Doctrine of Christ, his Apostles, and all sincere-hearted Protestants.  
Also, in Expectation it may be of Service to those who do not desire to GIVE UP THEIR WHOLE CONCERNS SPIRETUAL AND TEMPORAL, IF RE-QUIRED, TO THE SPIRIT OF GOD (as they term it) IN THEIR MEN AND women's MEETINGS. But for those that have so done, (as is too Obvious there be many such) that the Lord would give them to see the Error of their Ways, and Repentance before it be too late, is the Desire of, Thomas Crisp.  
Thus saith the Lord of Hosts, Harken not unto the Words of the Prophets, that Prophecy unto you— They speak a Vision of their own Hearts, and not out of the Mouth of the Lord,  Jer. 23.16. 
Thy Prophets have seen Vain and Foolish Things for thee, and they have not discovered Thine Iniquity— but seen for thee False Prophecies,  Lam. 2.14. 
London, Printed, and are to be sold by Enock Prosser, at the Rose in Swithins-Alley, at the East end of the Royal-Exchange, 1682.   


The INTRODUCTION.  
THE Intent of the Publication of this ensuing Paper and Letter, etc. is not to riflect on, or reproach the People called Quakers, or in contempt of their Principle: For God hath a People among them, many of whom have long been reviled, and falsely accused and slandered, because they have Conscientiously refused to Conform to Prescriptions without Conviction, and are therefore termed Separates, Stubborn, cain's, Judas', Apostates; and what not, that may make them odious to honest People? But this is to manifest the Apostasy and Innovations of a few of them that are of the Foxonian Sect [the term, Foxonion, is only for Distinction] which love Pre-eminence, and term themselves the Body and Elders, and the Church, and presume to give Laws and Orders to others to Conform to, or else be accounted Infidels, Rebels, etc. when it is evident, the Cause of their Rage against them (they call Separates, etc.) is, because they will not rebel against the Light in their own Hearts: So it is those that pretend themselves the Church, Elders, etc. that would cause the People to rebel, therefore it may be said, they are like Jeroboam the Son of Nebat, who made Israel to Sin. Also G. F. etc. have manifested themselves to be Lo here's (which Christ commanded should not be gone after) as appears by their Letter herein, produced and pretended as a Disowning that Paper or Judgement, but doth chief endeavour to stifle it from going abroad, because it manifests their Confusion.  
And that G. F's, etc. Universal Spirit they so often mention, is not that which Peter had, Acts 10, 24 which accepts all that fear God, and work Righteousness, but they hedge up the way to Acceptance with God, and leave no Entrance, but by their Forms of Men and Womens-Meetings; contrary to Christ, who said, I am the Way; etc. Also they ascribe that to their Orders and Meetings, which the Scripture ascribes to Christ. And G. F. etc. are so fond of Proselytes to their Orders and Meetings, that notwithstanding this Paper and Judgement is so repugnant to their pretended Foundation-Principle, yet they give not a word of sharp Reproof to it in all their Letter, as the Apostle to the Galatians, Who hath bewitched you? But they, instead thereof, give high Commendations: Therefore with Sorrow it may be said, as formerly of Literal Jerusalem, so now of Jerusalem from above, Her Adversaries are the Chief, her Enemies prevail; and Blindness is in part happened to Israel. This hath the Lord suffered to come to pass, that no Flesh should glory in his Sight. Therefore he humbled and fear before Him, for their presuming that they are God's People, and that they have his Wisdom and Power with them, therefore they conclude, what they do act as the Body or Church, is of God, and must stand as his Will and Counsel, and for want of his Power (which alone makes his Peeple willing) they fly to their pretended Church Power and Authority, and Saul-like, desire to have Honour before the People; but what Power theirs is, on which they ground their Authority to proceed against the Dissenters from their prescribed Forms of Meetings, etc. Hear Is. Penington's Judgement, That Power therefore in the Church which spares the Hippocrites (who can easily comply with an Outward Conformity in Worship, without feeling an Inward Life and Virtue) but lights heavy on that which is tender and shy in Matters of Worship, that is not the true Church-Power, at best, but a Counterfeit of the True.   

At a Quarterly-Meeting at Ralph Fretwell's House in Barbadoes, the 23d. day of the tenth Month, 1680.  
THe Sum of the Testimony this day born, amounts to this: That there is this day a Choice to be made, Viz. Whether Friends will cleave and abide unto the Universal Spirit of the Living God, and each give up their whole Concerns; with which Spirit the Faithful have Unity? Or, Whether they will give up unto the Judgement in their own particular, or Particulars only, with which the Judgement General of the Meeting have not Unity?  
After very many Testimonies given, to the further opening of the Question, the Judgement underneath was written, being voluntarily Subscribed unto by each particular of this Meeting, or by their Orders, their Names were hereunto put.  

Here follows that Detestable Judgement aforementioned.  
I desire to give up my whole Concern [then all Faith and Conscience] if required, both Spiritual & Temporal, unto the judgement of the Spirit of God in the Men & women's Meetings: as believing it to be more according to the Universal Wisdom of God, than any particular measure in myself, or any particulars with which the Men & Womens-Meetings have not Unity.   
This wicked Judgement was Subscribed by Men, 39 Women 43. Total 82.  
The Party that sent the abovesaid, writes thus, Viz. This Paper hath been promoted in sundry other Meetings since, and Subscribed: some few have refused: in abhorrence whereof, other Persuasions have Posted it.  
Here follows the Letter of G. F. etc. to the Quarterly-Meeting at Barbadoes, touching the said Paper; whereby it may be seen how, and wherein they own or disown it.  

NOw dear Friends, if this Order or Judgement should come into the hands of any Apostates or Opposers, they would make ill Work with it, and say, that we set up an Arbitrary Power over men's Consciences and Properties, and an Implicit Faith and Submission, without Inward Conviction; [What more true] And that we divided the Measure of God in a particular, from the Universal Spirit of God in other Particulars in men's and Womens-Meetings. And as for Subscribing unto such an Order or Judgement, they would say, it was like the Scotch-Covenant; and as though the Measure of the Faith and Spirit of God in themselves, was not agreeable to the Universal Spirit & Faith in the men's and Womens-Meetings; and that if they should go from the Measure of Faith and Spirit of God in their own Particulars, and to give up both their Spiritual and Temporal Concerns to the Universal Spirit in men's and Womens-Meetings. This would be the way to bring them all from the Measure of the Spirit in their own Particulars. For how can the Men and Women in the Universal Spirit receive that which is not given up from the Universal Spirit: therefore all must be left to the Universal Spirit in their own Measures thereof; and as for the Stubborn and Wilful, that are against Men and Womens-Meetings, the Universal Spirit cannot receive that. And all are to give up to the Universal Spirit in their own Particulars, in which Spirit they have Unity and Fellowship without outward Subscription, and to be led by the same Spirit, to see their Names written in Heaven in this Gospel-day of Light and Life; and this is, and was the Saint's Testimony in the New-Covenant of Light and Life, and their Heavenly Subscription, which is above all outward Subscriptions, both among the Jews and Professors, for the one ties them below, and the other ties them above. And for any to say, They desire to give up their whole Concerns, both Spiritual and Temporal unto the Judgement of the Spirit of God in men's and Womens-Meetings, as believing it to be more according to the Universal Wisdom of God, than any particular Measure in myself, or any Particulars.  
Now this would make the Belief which is in the Light, and the Spirit in their own Particulars, not one with the Universal Spirit in the said Meettings. And as for those that the men's and Womens-Meetings in the Universal Spirit of God have not Unity with, they are erred from their own Measures of the Spirit of God; but the Universal Spirit of God has Unity with the the least Measure now, as it was in the Apostles days, who kept every one to their own Measures, which was both the great Rule and Line of the new Creature in the Believers and Saints then, and so with that the Universal Spirit in the Apostles and Elders than had, and now have Unity. And therefore, dear Friends, we know your Care and Tenderness of Truth, and that you aim at the best Things, (Contrary to S. Crisp, who said, the Paper was not only ill worded, but he believed 'twas ill meant) ' and have had much to do with some lose Spirits there: and therefore our Desires are, that you would stop this Paper from going any further, lest some should get Copies of it, and spread amongst bad Spirits; and keep in the general tender Spirit of God, that in Love you may answer the Measure of the Spirit of God in them that are Convinced by it, and in them that err from it. And the Man of God must not strive, but be gentle towards all. And so concluding with the Apostles tender Advice, 1 Cor. 1.10. Now I beseech you Brethren, by the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no Divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same Mind, and in the same Judgement. And Phil. 2.2, 3. Fulfil you my Joy, that you be like minded, having the same Love, being of one Accord, of one Mind, let nothing be done through Strife or vain Glory, but in lowliliness of Mind let each esteem other better than themselves. And 1 Pet. 5.8. Finally, be all of one Mind, having Compassion one of another, love as Brethren: Be pitiful, be courteous.  
Now as for your Subscription to an outward tie, be above such things; forasmuch as you are manifestly declared to be the Epistle of Christ, written not with Ink, but with the Spirit of the Living God; which Spirit hath given you Life, and will bring you to the City of the Living God, the Heavenly Jerusalem, and to the General Assembly and Church of the Firstborn, which are written in Heaven, etc. Your dear Friends and Brethren in our Lord Jesus Christ, in whom you have Peace, Life, and Salvation.  
GEORGE FOX, etc.   
As for the aforesaid Paper from Barbadoes, wherein is expressed the Judgement of the Quarterly-Meeting, I take it to be neither according to Scripture, nor the Principles of Truth.  
And first, for Scripture; By it you make void the New-Covenant, or Law written in the Heart. Of which it is said, Heb. 8.11. They shall not need to teach every Man his Brother, saying, Know the Lord; but all shall know me from the least to the greatest. And John 2. The Anointing which you have received of Him, abideth in you, you need not any Man to teach you, but as that teacheth, etc. But your Judgement contradicts these, Viz. (Give up your whole Concern, Spiritual and Temporal, if required, unto the Spirit of God, (as you say) in Men and Womens-Meetings, believing it to be more according to the Universal Wisdom of God, than any particular in yourselves, etc. But the Scripture saith, None know the Things of God, but the Spirit of God. And how shall any one know what the Meeting requires is according to the Spirit of God, if not by a measure of it in themselves? It is also said, If our Heart Condemn us, God is greater: but if that Coodemn us not, then have we Confidence towards God. For if it please God to reveal any thing to any Particular, and the general deny, or disown it, than that particular must deny Revelation, and give up to the general. According to this Doctrine, I cannot see how the Church should ever be restored out of the Apostasy, unless God first reveal Himself to the general; which seems to be contrary to His way of Manifestation to this very day: For what must John have done with his Revelations and Message to the Asian Churches, Sardis and Laodicia, who had a Name to Live, and were Dead? And said, they were rich, and increased in Goods, and wanted nothing. They thought well of themselves, (as you do) & had but few Names left (not the generality) yet were mistaken, and Apostatised, and reproved by a Particular. Now, according to your Judgement, John and the few Names ought to have given up to the general, and not to his particular Revelation. Also all the Reformations since the Apostasy, have been begun by Particulars, and opposed and persecuted by the general; therefore it is not as you say, most agreeing to the Wisdom of God, to cleave to the Judgement of the general, but to the particular Manifestation; although the Judgement general hath not Unity therewith. For if a Particular may reprove the general, surely he ought to cleave to his particular Measure for his own Belief and Practice, although the general have not Unity therewith: for what is not of Faith, is Sin, much more what is contrary thereto. For if any Meeting requires one to do or believe contrary to their own Measure: whoever obeys them, therein becomes a Servant to those Persons & Meetings: for his Servants ye are whom you obey. Hereby you call such Men or Meetings your Master or Father, contrary to Christ's Command. Oh Friends, strain not at Gnats, and swallow such Camels! which the 82 seemed to have done.  
That it is against the Principles of Truth, is plain enough, and needs no proof: for by that we are taught to be guided by the Manifestation of God's Spirit in our own Hearts, to speak and act as thereby instructed, and that the Judgement of Truth through a part of Christ's Members, cannot become a Bond on others further than their Understandings are illuminated thereby. These two Positions the Judgement aforesaid seems to contradict. Also read E. B. and Is. P's Works, or any ancient Friends, they all direct to the Light in our own Hearts or Consciences, as the only and sufficient Guide and Leader: But your Judgement not only contradicts Scripture, and Friends Testimonies, but you have given such an unlimited Power to Meetings, and not contented to give that to Men which never before was given since Protestantism, but to Women also, in which the Scripture is silent; or what it says is rather against their having any Power or Rule, but to be subject. Nay, this unlimited Power was one of the heavy weights in the Pope's Yoke, that made it so uneasy to England in times of Popery; neither can I find that ever in England, the Pope, or any Church, gained this point by all their Stratagems, Wars, etc. as you have granted, (Viz. the giving up all Spirituals and Temporals) The Christian-State is said to be a glorious Liberty, but your Judgement makes them Slaves and Vassals, and will cause any Understanding Men to avoid submitting to such a Church that hath so unlimited a Power; 'tis much safer submitting to a Church which makes the Scripture their Rule; for thereby one may know what they may or can require of one, but yours, (after one hath given up all Spirituals, etc.) may still require more without measure, if you pretend or stamp such Requirings with the Name of the Universal Spirit of God, as Experience teacheth, hath been too frequent. What is become of all our Protesting Forefathers, according to your Judgement? For you seem to have acquitted Rome of all their Blood, for they had not only the Judgement of the generality of the Church, but of the Magistracy and Law of the Nation against them, which was of greater Authority than your women's Meetings, for which there is no Precept, Precedent nor Law, but against, viz. their Form and Power. I am ashamed, that after all this Light and Knowledge pretended, any should make such a long stride towards Rome, which now is very unseasonable; for if but one more such, I know not but you may both too soon meet, and embrace each other. If any say we mistake you, you do not give up to the Meeting, but to the Spirit of God, etc. W. Pen's Address, etc. and other Testimonies, I think, answer that, Viz. A Man may falsely believe as the True Church believes: and if I believe only, because She believes, and not because I am convinced in my own Understanding and Conscience, my Faith is false, though Hens be true. p. 146. Also E. Burrough saith, Every one is to mind the Teachings of the Spirit of Christ in himself, for to that he is to stand or fall, p. 152. Also if a bare saying it is the Spirit without evidence will serve, than the Pope may say so to. Now that which further aggravates, and makes this Judgement the worse, is, that it should come from such Persons as G. F. etc. writes the 82 Subscribers to be, Viz. Manifestly declared the Epistle of Christ, written with the Spirit of the Living God, which Spirit hath given you Life, and will bring you to the City of the Living GOD, etc.— Aim at the best Things, Viz. Give up all, etc.  
HIGH GROWN CRISTIANS, OR G. F. etc. HIGHLY MISTAKEN!  
Thus what you have done seems to be to the dishonour of Truth, and contrary to what you once professed: for the sufficiency of Light in your own hearts was that Gospel you received, and they Preached at first, for all to cleave to, and abide by, and give up to. But now to give up to the Requirings of others although con rary to that; what more like another Gospel? Therefore I beseech you, mind the Exhortation, If We, or an Angel from Heaven bring any other Gospel than that you have received, let Him be accursed. And avoid all such Questions as these are, and the Propounders thereof, for they are but foolish Questions, yea, worse, and will gender to Strife and BONDAGE; therefore let no Men (nor WOMEN especially) rule over you, nei her receive their Traditions for Doctrines, further than manifested by the Truth in your own hearts, and in the Scriptu es Are you so foolish as to believe that the R quirings of Men and Women-Mee●ings, without Scripture-Evidence, or manifestation by the Light in your own Hearts, can give you acceptance with God? wh n as Christ said to them that said they had Prophesied, and cast out Devi s, and done many mighty Works in his Name, Depart, I know you not, etc. And think you such unwarrantable Requirings, and Implicit giving up, can stand you in stead? Nay, this Persuasion cometh not of God, but it is fulfilled, as was prophesied in Scripture, Some shall arise from among yourselves, speaking perverse things. Remember from whence ye are fallen, and return to the measure of Truth in your own selves, and arise and departed from such Judgement s, for fear it be fulfilled on you, as was said against some of old, When they knew God, they glorified Him not as God; they became vain in their Imaginations, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Therefore I pray be not so soon moved and tossed up and down by these windy Arbitrary and Implicit Judgements of men, who have men's Persons and Orders in Admiration, because of Advantage; for such serve not Christ, but themselves: but mind you the Truth in your own hearts, and according as the Apostle said, Let every one be fully persuaded in his own Mind. You must answer for yourselves to God, when it shall be said, Who required these things at your hands? Will any Men or Women, or outward written Orders, have greater Force than Moses and the Prophets? Nay, but as many as are led by the Spirit of God, are the Sons of God; this Spirit Christ said he would send, should be in them.  
Forasmuch as the foregoing Letter of G. F. etc. to Barbadoes was produced, as a proof of their denial of the said Paper, I observe therein, That they are more afraid of its Publication, than ashamed of the Matter, and do more object the subscribing the Paper, than owning that Principle; (Viz, giving up all to them) as appears by their Words, If it should come into the Hands of Opposers, etc. they would say we set up Arbitrary Power, Implicit Faith, etc. (but they say not so) which are the plain tendency thereof.  
But it is needful to know what they mean by the Universal Spirit, being that is so often mentioned. I take it to be the Opinion or Judgement of the Ruling Party (or Foxonions) among the Quakers; because they exclude those who oppose their Orders, as being Apostates, and gone out from the Universal Spirit. Also I take this Spirit of theirs not to be the Universal Spirit of God, but a private selfish Spirit of their own: because they say, As for the Stubborn and Wilful, that are against Men and Womens-Meetings, the Universal Spirit cannot receive that. Now those they term Stubborn, etc. are not against men's and Womens-Meetings, but differ about the Form and Power thereof; they are only against Women having Meetings apart from the Men, when they have no business requires it: not against them in Cities, great Towns and Places, where they live near together, and Occasions require, but where they live remote from each other, and have no business. Also the Form of Marriages, etc. This is great part of the difference, and the Case of those Persons, G. F. etc. term Apostates, Bad Spirits, etc. And G. F. etc. says, The Universal Spirit cannot receive that. I shall show by Testimonies of Scripture and Friends, that notwithstanding Differences, yet Christians ought to receive each other, and walk in Love as Brethren.  
E. Burrough says, Notwithstanding their difference in Judgement, whether in Cases Substantial or Ceremonial, yet they were still to be in Love and Unity, pag. 809. And every one to mind the Teachings of the Spirit in himself. Hereby you may see that E. B. could receive in Love, and walk in Unity with such as differed in Cases Substantial: which is as high a difference as any about women's Meetings can be.  
Also W. Pen saith (Address to Protestants, p. 70.) I cannot see how such Men can excuse themselves from great presumption, etc. who deny those Persons to be Members of Christ's Church, that in Conscience refuse to subscribe any other Draught than their Lord hath given them. Then how can G. F. etc. excuse themselves, who say, Those that be against Womens-Meetings, the Universal Spirit cannot receive? Unless G. F. etc. prove that such Dissenters have had their Form of Womens-Meetings from the Lord. And G. F. etc. must admit them Members of Christ's Church, or prove they refuse that which the Lord hath given them; or else G. F. etc. are inexcusable, and condemnable by their own Testimonies. Also 2 Pet. 1.5. Give all diligence thereunto: add to Faith, Virtue, Knowledge, Temperance, Patience, Godliness, Brotherly-Kindness, Love: for if these things be in you, and abound, ye shall not be unfruitful, nor barren, etc.— Wherefore give all diligence to make your Calling and Election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fail; for an Entrance shall be ministered unto you into the Everlasting Kingdom. Now I appeal to any sober Christian, Whether all these Qualifications may not be in one, and yet conscientiously descent from a Form of Marriage, or Womens-Meetings, as ordered by G. F. If it can be, as I am sure it may, that one may be so qualified and assisted by God's Spirit, as to attain these Virtues expressed by the Apostle Peter, and not comply with G. F's Womens-Meetings; then a sure entrance is made into the Everlasting Kingdom, and they are received by the Universal Spirit of God: therefore G. F's etc. Universal Spirit, so often mentioned, is not that of God, nor of E. B. or Is. P. nor the Spirit of Christ nor his Apostles, for they said, Judge not; and that the Tree was known by its Fruit. But G. F. etc. will judge and condemn for evil, and gone from the Spirit, although no evil Fruit appears, only Nonconformity to them. Also where evil Fruit does appear, as in this their Judgement, yet he can say to them, because they own his Form, and women's Meetings, We know your Care, and that you aim at the best things. So that to give up to his Orders, though contrary to their own measures, seems by him, termed the best Things, and they are manifestly declared the Epistle of Christ, wrote with the Spirit of the Living God, etc. Whereby he seems to place more Virtue and Power in conforming to his Orders of women's Meetings, etc. than in all Faith and Fruits of the Spirit, expressed in the Scripture. And wherever G. F. mentions the Universal Spirit, I take him he means the Spirit that set up, and adores those Meetings, and persecutes all such who cannot for Conscience sake conform thereto. Now Christ said, Whatever you would another should do unto you, that do unto them. Love thy Neighbour as thyself, etc. This is the true Universal Spirit, to desire no more Liberty nor Charity from another than one would be content to allow them; and Impose no more on another, than one would have them Impose on ones self. G. F. etc. once cried for Liberty of Conscience; none must perform any Worship, but as taught and led thereinto by the Light in their own Hearts: but having gathered a People to themselves, now (say they) Submit to your Elders: and if not Conform to his Orders (for Conscience sake) then Wilful, Stubborn, out of the Universal Spirit and Truth, Enemies, Rebels, accursed from all Eternity, etc.  
And it appears that the Subscribers and G. F. etc. do differ: for he says, This would make the Belief which is in the Light, and the measure of the Spirit in their own particulars, not one with the Universal (i. e. G. F's) Spirit, etc. Indeed so it doth; for there be many that believe in the Light, and measure of the Spirit, and its Sufficiency, that are not one with G. F's, etc. Imposing Spirit, which he calls Universal, but against it; although the true Universal Spirit of Christ, and in all His, hath now, as formerly, Unity with the least measure in any Member, though for Conscience sake, they may be of a differing apprehension in some things; and therefore, the Apostle, He became all to all, weak, or strong; and said, bear one another's Burdens, and bear one with another; and therefore he condescended to Baptism and Circumcise, to win over, and endeavoured the increase of their Faith and Understandings; not blind Conformity before Convincement, but said, If any be otherwise minded, God shall reveal it, etc. As their Faith increased, so should their Obedience. The Spirit, the Apostle was in, could receive those that differed in Judgement and Practice in some things, and did not say they were erred from their measures; and if against Womens-Meetings, that the Universal Spirit could not receive them, but were careful not to offend the weak; would deny themselves that which was lawful, for the benefit of the weak: therefore not of G. F's, pretended Universal Spirit.  
Now G. F's etc. Letter is so jumbled together, seemingly disowning, and yet owning the Paper too: but take them either ways; if they disown, then that manifests a difference; if they own it, than they plainly manifest themselves to be what the Dissenting Party hath objected against them many Years (only G. F. etc. have imperiously and wrongfully born them down) Viz. That they do in their Actings contradict their Principles and Doctrine; that is, they (as the Pharisees) say, and do not: for it is evident by the scope of their Letter, that they are dissatisfied with the wording of it, and that latter Clause which admits a particular measure, may differ from the general, also afraid of its Publication, knowing they cannot justify it, and that it is that they have been charged for practising these many years, and for this cause many have and do dissent from them, whom they term,— gone from the Power of God, and Opposers of the Order of the Gospel: Setters up of Standards against Truth: and many other Names and marks of Sons of Perdition; when they have nothing else against them, only not submitting to G. F's Orders without Conviction: for G. F. etc. do not at all contradict the Principle, Of giving up all, only the subscribing to it; nor deny but their Meetings have such power, or aught to be given up to, only would insinuate that it is done from the Universal Spirit of God; and all who do not so believe and act, the Universal Spirit cannot receive, etc. But all that fear God, beware of such, who be thus given to change, and believe and act so contrary to what they say and pretend; and notwithstanding the good words of the Apostle, in the latter end of G. F's Letter, which be sound; and had they kept themselves to their primitive Testimony, and sound Doctrine, as in Scripture, there had not been this Separation: but having followed the Devices of their own Heads, with fair words and speeches, they beguile many simple ones; but now their Folly is made manifest, and that they have only a Form of Godliness, but deny the Power thereof; therefore from such turn away. And it's better to be by such accounted Separates, than for their favour to deprive yourselves of the benefit of your own measures of Light and Life, according to which all shall be at last Judged.  
As for the seeming dislike (or blame) of the Judgement, from these following words in G. F's Letter, Viz. This would make the Belief in the Light, and the measure of the Spirit in their own particulars, not one with the Universal Spirit in the said Meetings. That this is a disowning of, or a Reproof for the Judgement in general, or the giving up of all, etc. is but a fallacious cover, as appears by his high commending and extolling them in the latter part of his Letter, in p. 5. Also his words to them he terms Stubborn and Wilful, that cannot give up all, etc. of those he saith, The Universal Spirit cannot receive that— those that the men's and women's Meetings have not Unity with in the Universal Spirit of God, they are erred from their own measures, etc. What this Universal Spirit is that they so often mention, is showed in the Introduction, and pag. 9 Also they say in W. F's Book, Spiritual-Liberty, etc. pag. 4. Those that be left with the one Spirit of Truth, must be of one Mind, they cannot be otherwise. These words, be of one Mind, and having Unity with G. F's Womens-Meetings, is all to the same effect as the Barbadoss Judgement, only that is more naked, and plain, and not so subtly worded, as some here could have done it, for we must believe and practise just as they do, or would have us, or else no Unity, which implies as much ●iving up as the Barbadoss Judgement doth, as is further manifested by their severe Judgements against those that cannot so do, and by rendering them Apostates, etc. And G. F's, etc. dislike or blameing them is not for their giving up all, etc. but for the latter Clause of the Judgement, which admits that a particular measure may differ, or not agree with the generally in the men's and Womens-Meetings, who be too much swayed and overruled by his Party, and termed the Universal Spirit of God: but this Judgement proves that their Universal Spirit, and Ruling Party have erred; therefore Particulars ought not to have Unity with them, but testify against them. It's evident from the Asian, and all others Churches since down to this very Barbadoss Church, that the Universal Ruling Part have erred, and been testified against and reproved by particulars, as G. F's Lording Spirit in himself and Party have been, although they seem to be so resolved, as that they will have the Power, Authority, and Judgement, etc. and will Govern; and rather than they will want a Place where, and Subjects over whom to govern, etc. they will stretch their Power over the Consciences of their Brethren, even in the Seat or Throne of Christ, as is further manifest from R. B's Anarchy, etc. vindicated by the Second-days Meeting in their (false) Accuser, etc. page 57 Where they ask this Question, If in no Case of Conscience the Church of Christ hath Power to give such positive Sentence as is just and righteous.  
When they mention the Church of Christ in respect to this present Age, that they mean only themselves, seems evident from the said R. B's Anarchy, etc. p. 43. Also Judas or the Jews, etc. p. 28. Where they term themselves the Body of Christ: And in other Writings, they the People of God, and none else. Also when they mention the Government and good Ordinances of Christ, or in his Church, it is evident, they mean some new invented Formalities, and Ceremonies of their own, and not fundamental Principles, according to the Precepts and Examples of Christ and his Apostles, mentioned in the holy Scripture. Therefore their terms of the Church of Christ, and pretensions to Just and Righteous Sentences and Judgement, are but Covers, and such Robes hath the Woman which sitteth on the Scarlot coloured Beast, been arrayed with in all Ages since the Apostasy, pretending themselves the True Church, and their Sentences and Judgement, Just and Righteous, as you do; and you have provided Weapons for them, that may in time, prove to your own hurt, IF YOU BE NOT ALL OF ONE MIND AND JUDGEMENT.  
For if you gain but that Point, to have Power in any Case of Conscience, to give positive Sentence, WHO but YOU (who say, you are the CHURCH) must determine in what Cases, so that it is in what Cases you please, which is as good as if you had said, YOU HAVE POWER (IF YOU PLEASE) IN ANY CASE OF CONSCIENCE, TO GIVE POSITIVE SENTENCE AND JUDGEMENT. And I see not, but if that you have such absolute Power in Cases of Conscience, but that you may also claim it in Meum and Tuum, and have Power to determine, as R. B. saith, To remove such Differences by your positive Sentence. And let the wise in Heart Judge how little this is less than all Spirituals and Temporals, according to the Barbadoss Judgement, for if any difference be between the Lording, Ruling, Universal Party, and some other Particular, the Universal Party will not fail to say, They be the true Church, & have Power, & if we must be all of one Mind and Judgement. Whose Judgement ought we to be of, but the Church's, (Viz. YOURS) being in the true Faith, & c? BEHOLD WHETHER THIS DRIVES: And according to C. Tailor's Doctrine, it may be said, as in his Book Something, etc. p. 35. FOR AUGHT I KNOW, you will centre in ROME, and say, It is the positive, just, and righteous Sentence of the Church. (It is truly said in Addr. to Prot. p. 144. An Imposing Church— will be both Judge and Party) So that according to this Doctrine, you have a Charter to give positive Sentence in any Cases of Conscience, etc. TO HAVE AND TO HOLD, (if you can) until you please to give Setence against yourselves. And when the Second-days Meeting have resolved when that shall be, and in what Cases, and in what not, you have Power to give positive Sentence; then their needless Question before mentioned gendering to Strife and Bondage, may be answered; but until then, them and their Question to be avoided, according to the Advice of the Apostle, Beware of the Concision, beware of Evil Workers.  
Pray consider what sentence had poor Micajah, among the 400 Prophets, the 1 Kings 22.24. When Zedekiah went near and smote him, and said, Which way went the Spirit of the Lord from me to speak unto thee.  
Also Jeremiah, & other of the Prophets, from the Church in their days, who could speak high words, saying, The Lord lived that brought them out of the Land of Egypt, and out of the House of Bondage. Also consider what positive Sentences Christ and his Apostles had from the Pharisees and Ruling Party of the Church, who garnished the Sepulchers of the Prophets, saying, If they had lived in their days, they would not have killed them: And thought highly of themselves, saying, They were Abraham's Seed, and never were in Bondage, and reputed themselves Elders, and Overseers, and those to whom God hath given Counsel, Authority, and Power to, and as the true Church; gave positive Sentences, and as they thought, Just and Righteous, against the Servants of Christ: and demanded by whose Authority they did those things, as some of you have done, when one Speak, or Pray in your Meeting; and because not in exact Conformity to G. F's Laws, therefore have asked, Doth, or did G. F. allow, or approve of it.  
Also consider, when all Asia was turned aside, and all men forsook Paul, and none stood by him, only some few Particulars, What was their positive Sentences? Doubtless they thought them just and righteous, and obligatory, as they were the Church, being the Universal and Ruling Party. Therefore without Evidence from Scripture, or by the Spirit in our own Hearts, of the Justice and Righteousness of your positive Sentences and Orders, they are but the Traditions of Men, although taught for Doctrines.  
And the Light or Spirit of Christ within, is a surer Guide and Leader to every particular, than the Unity, or being of one Mind and Judgement with any of G. F's, etc. men's and women's Meetings: For in the New Jerusalem coming down from God out of Heaven, in which John saw no Temple, neither had it need of Sun or Moon, but the Glory of the LORD and the LAMB is the Light thereof.  
WHat is here afore-wrote, is not as a full Answer or Detection of the depths of Satan, and Mystery of Iniquity that is couched under, or lies hidden in this Judgement asserted in the Paper from Barbadoes, and the seeming Answer of dislike thereto, given by G. F. etc. but only as a Mite from one, and according to present Ability, to manifest his detestation of all such Principles and Practices. But I doubt not but there will be some of greater Ability, who shall contribute much more to the uncovering Her who hath long sat as a Queen, and deceived many, yet says, I shall not see Widowhood nor Sorrow; because her Children are many and mighty, through the Power they have received from that Beast on which she rides, and will suffer none to buy nor sell in their Market, but who receive her Mark in their Forehead or Hand. For notwithstanding their Judgement seems such barefaced Popery, and so contrary to their pretended Principles, yet observe how G.F. etc. treat the Authors, Viz. We know your Care and tenderness for Truth, and that you aim at the best Things, and are manifestly declared the Epistle of Christ, written with the Spirit of the Living God, which will bring you to the City of the Living God, etc. And not one sharp Reproof in all, only Caution for fear of its Publication, and dislike that any particular measure should not be one with their Men and Womens-Meetings, etc. But when we consider the Names and Terms are given to others that profess the same Faith, and agree in all Things, except as aforesaid, Viz. Something about Womens-Meetings, and some Forms of Marriages, etc. they for this conscientious forbearing to practise such Things as they have no Faith in, are termed Apostates, departed from the Truth, such as the Universal Spirit cannot receive, etc. By all which we may see how they would hedge up the way to God, and leave no Door to come in by, but G. F's Forms; nay, not only so, but tie up, or limit God, that if he reveals any thing to any particular, he must give up all to the general, and if they have not Unity with it, must cleave to the general against that particular Measure of Knowledge or Manifestation in himself; but I think hereby is plainly manifested that there be such Innovators as W. Rogers hath mentioned in his Book, Viz. The Chrictian-Quaker distinguished from the Apostate and Innovator. Which Title C. Taylor saith, is notorious Blasphemy. But hereby it not only appears that the Title is proper, and no Blasphemy: but also that there was just Cause for W. R's writing that Book; for the Cause why those, they call Apostates, separate from them, is not out of any dislike or denial of the Principles of Truth (although they say all that oppose them be gone from Truth) but in opposition to their Usurping Authority over People's Consciences in Religious Matters, and requiring Conformity to their Orders, before or without Conviction.  
This is the chief Cause of their hard Speeches, and false Accusations against those they term Apostates, and Separates, and say, In the Name of the Lord they resolve to give Battle wherever they meet that Spirit. But others are resolved in the Spirit of the Lamb, not to bow to their Image, having seen that they should, as they have done, manifest themselves to be what they are, even empty Clouds. The Lord open the Understandings of all the simple-hearted among them (as I believe there be many) and preserve all blameless, and in Love, that they may have no just Cause to speak evil of you: but separate from such who have a Form of Godliness, and high swelling words of Church-Power and Gospel-Order (which they have made to themselves, and are bowing to, even the Work of their own hands, as appears by the foregoing and following Lying Prophecy of S. Eccles.) and have your Minds girt up towards the Lord, and your Conversation as becomes the Gospel, in Meekness and Fear, not terrified by their high swelling Words; and seeing the evil Effects of forsaking the Teaching of the Lord by his Spirit, to give up to men's and Womens-Meetings, and Orders, beware lest you be carried away with the Error of the wicked, and fall from your own Steadfastness; but endeavour to grow in Grace, and of the Knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom alone be Obedience and Glory for ever: which is the desire of my Heart, as for myself, so for all that desire to follow the Lord, and that we may be kept from Idols.  

Here follows the False Prophecy of S. E. taken out of his Letter which he (accompanied with two eminent Friends, and Espousers of G. F. and his Party) delivered to J. S. who lived some years after, notwithstanding his predicting the contrary.  
O JOHN STORY, What hast thou done against the Lord and thy own Soul! Thou hast divided the Heritage of God; and the good Ordinances which Christ Jesus hath set up in his Church hast thou contemned, especially Womens-preaching, and Womens-Meetings; therefore will the Lord throw Contempt upon thee; and if thou dost not repent speedily, miserable will be thy End— O how hast thou lost thy Place and Dignity which thou hadst amongst the Saints in Light! and now to be numbered amongst the Rebellious.— If ever thou find Mercy with the Lord, go home to the North with speed, and break up the Divided Meetings, which thou and John Wilkingson have been Instrumental to divide from the Body of the Lord Jesus Christ— The Anger of the Lord is chief against thee; and thou art bound with two Bonds: for the Church and Brethren have bound thee on Earth, and thou art surely bound in Heaven; and this is the Testimony of Jesus to thee; neither shalt thou be able to get from under these Bonds, till thou art reconciled to the Brethren— [i.e. submit to G. F. etc.] O haste to the Work abovesaid, lest the Wrath of the Lord overtake thee before it be done, and be reconciled to G. F. who is God's Friend, and the Servant of the Living God, and Great Apostle of Jesus Christ,— Hast away to the North, for thy time is short, and go quickly thou and thy Brother, if possible you may bring again to the Body of Jesus Christ, those ye have scattered, lest their Blood be required at your Hands;— Arise quickly, and be going, for this is the Word of the Lord to thee, Viz. That this Year shalt thou (John Story) die, because thou hast Taught Rebellion against the Living God.  
SOLOMON ECCLES. 1st. day of the 1ct Month, 1677.    

READER,  
OBserve what this S. E. (one of G. F's Preachers) delivers in the Name of the LORD, Viz.  
1. That their Womens-preaching and Womens-Meetings are the Good Ordinances which Christ hath set up in his Church.  
2. That being reconciled (i. e. submitting) to G. F. and his Imposing Party, is the only way to find Mercy with the Lord.  
3. G. F. etc. (who call themselves the Body of Friends) he terms the Body of Jesus Christ.  
4. That great Lie he delivered in the Name of the Lord, Viz. THIS YEAR SHALT THOU (JOHN STORY) DIE, etc. Who was then Ill, and not like to live long, but yet lived about four years after.  
This is here inserted, that all who read or hear it, may fear, and beware of taking the Name of the Lord in vain. Also of having G. F. or any Persons, or their Orders in Admiration, as this S. E. and others his Brethren and Preachers of G. F's Party have so frequently done, as appears by the Titles they have given G. F. Viz. One greater than Moses, a Prophet indeed,— It was said of Christ, he was in the World, the World was made by Him, and the World knew Him not; so it may be said of this true Prophet, whom John said he was not, but thou shalt feel this Prophet one day, as heavy as a Millstone upon thee, and though the World knoweth him not, yet he is known.  
Also G. F. hath been styled, The Father of many Nations, whose Life hath reached to us thy Children, even to the Isles afar off, whose Being and Habitation is in the Power of the Highest, in which thou Rules and Governs in Righteousness, and thy Kingdom is Established in Peace, and the Increase thereof is without End.  
These and many more have been given him, which I do not understand that he disowned or testified against, but rather owned and approved of them, as it seems to appear by his causing, or at least suffering those Expressions, etc. to be Communicated to others, See also a Blasphemous and Idolatrous Letter in p. 7 of 5th. BABEL'S, &c. Now these have been covered, Justified, or excused, but others that conscientiously descent from their Ceremonies, they are persecuted with Rigour and false Accusations. Oh Was ever greater Partiality and respect of Persons from such high Pretenders to Christianity! And if Trees may be known by their Fruits, these are evil Ones. Therefore dear Friends, be separate from these unclean things, for such Principles and Practices, are Babylon's Brats (who is to be made naked to the shame of her Lovers) and happy shall those be who dash them against the Stones, but woe to them that give suck to, and nourish them. Think me not your Enemy, because I deal plainly with you, for it is in Love to Truth, and abhorrence of Imposition, unlimited Power, Implicit, blind, and unacceptable Obedience, I desire the Lord to give you to know what is his good and acceptable Will. Recommending you to the Spirit of Grace in your own Hearts, whereby you may be preserved blameless in this crooked Generation. To God only be Glory and Eternal Honour for ever.    
FINIS.