THE QUAKERS REFUGE Fixed upon the Rock of Ages, Though the Swelling Waters Dash never so Violently to Overturn it.  
Wherein is proved, that the Narrative of Ralph James is an absolute Lying-Wonder, according to his own Definition.  
And also, The great Controversy between the People of God called Quakers, and others, about the holy Spirit of God and the Scriptures; truly stated, and very briefly discoursed, as it is owned by the Quakers.  
And the Truth Cleared from the False Suggestions and Deceitful Insinuations of the Anabaptists about the said Controversy.  
●n Answer to a subtle Pamphlet, lately published, Entitled, The Quakers Subterfuge or Evasion Overturned.  
Also, A few Queries propounded unto Ralph James, and the Author of the Subterfuge, etc. By ROBERT RUCKHILL.  
To which is added another Postscript in Answer to some Queries propounded in the said Pamphlet, wherein many Untruths are suggested; but herein the Truth is cleared, and the Evasion and Deceit of the Baptists made more fully manifest.  
By JOHN WHITEHEAD.  The Lip of Truth shall be Established forever; but a Lying Tongue is but for a Moment, Prov. 12.19. Righteous Man hateth Lying Words; but the Wicked causeth Slander and Shame, Prov. 13.5. 
Printed in the Year, 1673.   

Honest Impartial Reader;  
WHen first the 
* There being about Nine Years between the Generation and the Birth.  Monstrous Production of the Anabaptists Lying-Wonder (extant in their Narrative and prefixed Letters) had so Vigorously alarmed, the Nation; I was under some exercise of Mind, as having the Ground and Design of the Anabaptists opened in me in that their Undertaking, which I feared could not be so obvious to that Southern Friend, who was first engaged in the Detection of their Slanders, by reason of his remote Residence from those Parts, where those things were pretended to be acted.  
But when I had seen the first and second Books of T. R. where their Deceits were so evidently discovered, and so signally detected (although their Ground was not so much perceived) I did acquiesce in a patiented Hope, and Expectation of a Successful Issue on the Truth's behalf.  
Afterwards came forth another Book, put forth, as I conceive, by a Clandestine Author, entitled, The Quakers Subterfuge or Evasion Overturned, etc. whereat I was much stirred in mind, to observe somewhat concerning the said Book, but was still stayed by a certain Expectation, shortly to see the Answer by that Friend who was already engaged in that Service. But being at Lincoln the 25th of December last, where I expected to have sound the said Answer, I not only understood that the Book was unanswered; but (much contrary to my Expectation) the Work itself brought to my Hands, which I accepted not without Fear and Trembling: wherefore my Soul humbly implores the Assistance of the Eternal Wisdom, without which I am both unable and unfit to do Him any Service.  
And now Reader, sigh the all-disposing Providence has thus ordered things, I shall candidly address myself to communicate unto thee (and to the whole Nation, if they please) what I have observed to be the original true Ground and Cause, why the Anabaptists at this Season should produce their Lying-Wonder, which the Author in hand affirms was brought ONLY to oppose the spirit of Falsehood in Richard Anderson; when as about Nine Years, by this Author's Confession, have expired since the Matter contained in their Narrative was acted; see their Subterfuge, p. 9 & 13. Surely, if the Anabaptists had been as slow in the cure of Leprosies, Pains, Exstasies, etc. as they have been in opposing R. A's false spirit, what had become of him, his Leprous Child, Wife and Family, or of Mary Brown, long ere this day? But I proceed.  
About the 26th day of the 6th Month, 1669. was the Dispute at Wrawby (mentioned by the Anabaptists) and upon the last day of the same Month, William Smith of Eltham late a Brother of the Baptists; but now a faithful Follower of the Light of Christ, that Light of the World) gave forth a Writing thus dedicated:  
To all such as deny, that the holy Spirit ought to be Supreme Judge in Man, and in Matters of Faith above the holy Scriptures.  
This was directed in particular to Ralph James and John Kirk by of Brigg; but they have not answered it to this day, though J. K. did promise to answer it. At last (after some Provocation used) J. K. writes a reviling Letter, about 17 Months after, while R. James is employed to bring forth into the World this Monstrous Birth, the Narrative, which had lain in the dark womb of Oblivion about 9 Years; thus (after the mode of Antichrist) to establish their false Doctrines by Signs and Lying Wonders, & at one fatal Blow to assassinate the Innocent Name & Cause of the Quakers forever.  
In this seeming Distress the Quakers flee to the Name of the Lord, their strong Tower, there to repose in Safety, until a just Defence might advance in their Vindication, which no sooner appears under the hand of T. R. but presently advances another Opposer of God's Everlasting Truth, charges the Quakers in their chiefest Strength, intending by fine Force to overturn their Subterfuge, and render them obnoxious to the Pursuit and Chase (at least) of every insulting Enemy, that none might forever hereafter dare to assert the Dignity and Power of the Spirit of God above the Writings of Men, lest their Children should be smitten with Leprosy, and themselves with intolerable Pains. This (R●ader) is the Ground and Design (as I perceive) of the Anabaptists Envy and Wrath against an Innocent People; and in all probability, had it not been for the Writing aforesaid (which they have not been able to answer, and are therefore vexed and gauled) the Matter of their Narrative and Lying-Wonder might have rotten in the Grave forever, without all Hope of a Resurrection; whereas now (after the Second Death thereof) it must unburied stink above Ground, to the Shame and Reproach of the Anabaptists in all succeeding Generations.  
For the Truth on the Quakers behalf, and the Anabaptists Deceits, are so Perspicuous (in two Books written by T. R. entitled, The Anabaptists Lying-Wonder; and, The Anabaptists Preacher Unmasked: unto the serious Perusal whereof I refer the Reader for ample Satisfaction) that its verily hoped, their Envy against us in this Particular will not survive another Paroxysm. Let's therefore leave it on its Deathbed a while, and examine, what considerable Supplies the Author under Consideration hath brought to their Dying Cause, in his last Expedition.  
From Adlingfleet in Merceland, the 8th day of the 11th Month, 1672. Robert Ruckhill.   

THE Quakers Refuge Fixed upon the Rock of Ages, etc.  
FOrasmuch as the Matter of Fact, with its Circumstances contained in the two first Books of the Anabaptists, with the Additions; and also, so much as concerns their Cross Examination of their own Member Richard Anderson, extant in this Book now under search, called, The Quakers Subterfuge, etc. hath been sufficiently answered by my Friend T. R. I shall not need pedetentim to tract this Author, only shall endeavour to wipe away that immerited Aspersion of Untruth and Immodesty, which the Author under hand hath cast upon the Title Page of T. R's Book, by proving their Narrative to be worthily styled, The Anabaptists Lying-Wonder, and so proceed to such other Particulars as lie in my way.  
That the Narrative of R. James is deservedly called, A Lying-Wonder (and that by their own Definition of a Lying-Wonder) appears thus.  
First, Because it is False in itself. 2dly, It is brought to maintain a Falsehood. 3dly, To Oppose a Truth.  
That the Narrative is False in itself, hath abundantly appeared in the two Books of T. R. beforesaid, both by Testimonies & Certificates sufficiently witnessed, beyond all Contradiction. But in regard this Author, and some Independents in these Parts still urge, That Rich. Anderson was a Quaker, at least in Principle; let's hear what they say for themselves, wherefore they should be believed.  
This Author in the 10th page of his Subterfuge urgeth, That R. A. was a Quaker n Principle, and that for these Reasons. First, In that he testifies at a high rate for the Light Within. 2. In that he hath proclaimed the Quakers to be the People of God, and owned of God, as was Moses. 3. Because R. A. went in the Conceits of his own Heart on an Unsent Errand. But what's this to the Quakers?  
Here is all the united Strength the Anabaptists and other Professors are able to make, to prove R. A. a Quaker: But will these poor Remains of their shattered Forces do it? Surely nay. Will the Devil's frequent and open Confession, that Christ is the Holy One of God, prove him to be a Christian? Or will that Pythoniss (Acts 16.) her following Paul and Silas many days (perhaps more than they affirm R. A. conversed with the Quakers) crying, These Men are the Servants of the Most High God, which show unto you the Way of Salvation, prove her a true Proselyte, and Convert to that Way of Salvation, unto which (with the Preachers thereof) she had born so clear a Testimony? Let the Sober-minded judge. And if so ample Testimonies (as clear and full as any they instance R. A. gave to the Quakers) will not prove the said Conclusions; then let Shame cover the Faces of the Anabaptists, and their envious Confederates, until they have Repent, and taken as much Pains in the Vindication of God's Eternal Truth, owned by the Quakers, as they have taken in Opposing it.  
Neither ought R. Anderson his pronouncing R. J. a Leper (from the consideration of a Scripture, as he confesseth, and they own, see Subterfuge. p. 11. and then not sent by the Light the Quakers witness to (to their own Contradiction) as they before suggested) nor his false Pretending to Heal the Sick, which they urge he attempted, but sailed, I say, neither of these aught of Right to reflect upon the Principles or Doctrines of the Quakers, or prove him one of their Prophets, any more than the Sons of Sceva the Jew, their naming over them that had Evil spirits, the Name o● Je●us and Paul, was reflective upon the Principles and Doctrine of Paul, or proved them to be Prophets of the Christians; who, though they were not smitten with Leprosy, or other inward Pains, yet got they their Coats rend off their Backs, and their Bones Beaten for their Presumption.  
Thus it is manifest, their Narrative is false in respect of the Father; and no truer in the Child, which R. J. affirms (in his Narrative) was smitten all over with Spots, which they call Leprosy, and since Dead, as his Letter affirms; but now (after their Cross Examination of R. A.), they are glad with Shame enough to exchange their Lepresie for a Simple Sore; and the Dead Child is yet Above to the shame of chose Impostors, were they not past Shame. See Subterfuge, p. 13.  
As Impious also is their Pretence, That the Child was smitten with Leprosy for the Father's Offence (sigh R. A. has affirmed before two credible Witnesses, men of honest Reputation, namely, Tho. Markam and Edw. Gilliat, both of Brigg, That the Sore (which they call Leprosy) was upon the Child some time before the Father pronounced the Leprosy. And the Truth of this is yet further demonstrable from R. Anderson's own word, as recited by this Author himself in the 13th page of his Subtersuge, where (as in a vain flourish pretending to produce some considerable Proof of the Child's Reprosie) he hath these words, But now (saith he) let us hear what R. Anderson himself saith, who being asked (by their own Witnesses there named) Whether he had not a Child that was smitten with Leprosy, after he had pronounced R. James a Leper? R. Anderson answers (as this Author records it) That he had a Child THAN, that did break out into Sores. Mark Reader, he does not answer directly to the Question, as they expected he would; for than he should have said, His Child was smitten with Leprosy afterwards; but on the contrary, his Answer clearly implies what is before proved, (viz.) That the Child had the Sore upon it even THAN, when the Father pronounced the Leprosy. And here R. James and his Adherents have not only Abused the World with their Lying-Wonder, but also falsely Accused the Impartial Justice of the Most Righteous God, who never yet would edge the Teeth of any Child, when the Father only had eaten Sour Grapes; much less would smite an Innocent Child, for the Father's Offence, with so Sore a Punishment as Spots, which they call Leprosy, all over, whilst yet the Father's Sin was not Committed. Let every sober man consider what spirit these men are of.  
As for the Eye and Ear-witnesses of the Asslictions of R. A. & his Family, which the Quakors with good Reason called for, this Author proceeds in his old mode of Subtlety; and instead of producing them, he tells us, That there are Neighbours that say, They door member some Afflictions in R. A 's Family about Nine Years since, but would not be brought into Question, etc. Would any man in his Wits bring such pitiful stuff, as this in such a Concern? Who knows not, but most Families, where Children are, at one time or another are under some Affliction? This is just like the Author. But doubtless, if he had any Witnesses to the Purpose, he would not fail to produce them in such a Case as this, where the Credit of their whole Party lies at stake: therefore since he produceth none, Reason must needs conclude, he hath none; for in such Cases the Maxim hold true, De non apparentibus et non ex●●●e●●ibus eadem est Ratio.  
And thus, as their Narrative is proved self in itself, so it was brought to maintain all the Falsehood, before said, to wit, concerning R. A 's Leprous Child, afflicted Family, and the Manner of their Healing; all proved Falsehoods: And it was brought to oppose this Truth, that the holy Spirit of God is the only true Standard to Judge and try both the Scripture, and all other spirits, and doctrines by. And that this is substantial Truth, by the assistance of the same holy Spirit I shall prove, when I come to state the great Controversy. In the mean time both myself, and all unbyased persons may safely and modestly conclude, that the Narrative of R. James is a Lying wonder, and that the Title of T. R. his Book is True.  
And here it well worth our serious Observation, what a near Resemblance there is between the Anabaptists, in their precited Impostures, and pretended Cures of R. A. and his Family, Mary Brown, etc. and the old Popish Priests and Friars in times past, with their Confederate Impostors and Cheats, as the Boy of Bilson, and other Female Impostors, who seemed to be possessed with strange Devils; 
See the Book called, A Guide to Grand-Jury-Men, published by a Person of Reputation— Barnerd of Batcomb.  they acted Mad Pranks, even beyond Wonder, and Strange Frisks, above Admiration: but then, in the height of all their Counterfeit Ecstasies, and seeming deplorable Passions, in comes the Exorcising Priest with his, Et verbum caro factum est, and with that as with an effectual Charm, sets all at rights again, to the great Honour and Reputation of his declining Religion. How near a kin the Practices of these Parties are (however different in their Principles) I will not take upon me to determine, but leave it to their own Consideration, that they may unfeignedly Repent, and do so no more; only showing this Difference between them, That the Anabaptists by preaching the Flesh of Christ, put their Mary Brown into her Stiffnecked Ecstasy, and Delphic Fit: But the other cured their Confederates by the same Means. See the Narrative of that Edition, where the Story of M. B. is, pag. 15. and the Title Page.  
In the next place is considerable, what a great Noise (to no purpose) this Author makes about the Evidences brought by the Quakers to invalidate the Narrative, and affirms, that they are either abused, or forged; but instead of proving this Charge, he merely trifles, and spends two whole Pages to no purpose at all: but sure he either hath not seen, or else will not see T. R. his 2d Book, wherein there are so full and pregnant Testimonies and Certificates, and so candidly obtained, that Envy itself cannot detect them. And here ●sith it's no more than Justice and Duty to render unto all men their Due, I cannot (without the merited Reproach of Odious Ingratitude and Injustice) any longer deser the Payment of the just Debt of a Sober Acknowledgement of that Generosity and Nobleness of Mind, which at that time Appeared in an old Acquaintance Doctor Lincoln Parson of Panton, where R. A. dwells, who calling the said Richard Anderson in the presence of above twenty of his Neighbours into the open Street, there publicly examined R. A. in the presence of his Neighbours, and before five other Witnesses concerning all things, in the said Certificate expressed, and after a full hearing of the whole matter, dismissed the five Witnesses with words to this Effect.  
Gentlemen (say●● he) you have heard the Examination and Testimons' o● R. A. concerning the Business, ●e are come to inquire about, I know you will improve it to the best Advanture of your cause, I perceive some of you are come very ●ar, therefore being unwilling you should return without good Satisfaction, I have taken this pains with him. Anderson cannot deny, what he hath here testified before us all, but if he should recede from any thing he hath said, we shall all bear witness against him. Thus Dr. Lincoln: and I hope it will be no offence to him, or any of his Friends, that I have thus far presumed (in discharge of my duty) to render him his due.  
Hereupon the five Witnesses above said set down twelve of the Neighbours Names, who were there present, not as Witnesses, but as Indifferent Spectators of the whole Transaction, to the end that if any Person seeing the Certificate, should Question or Scruple the truth of any thing there specified, by having recourse to any or all the persons there nominated, they might with more Facility inform themselves of the Verity of all things there certified: this was their real End in setting down the Names, without the least Purpose of Injury or Offence unto any, as (it's said) some do indiscreetly surmise: and because one Book may come where another does not, I conceive it not amiss to insert the said Certificate in this place.  

The Certificate.  
THese are to certify all Persons, that desire to know the Truth, That upon the Six and Twentieth Day of the Month called June, 1672. Richard Anderson of the Town of Panton in Lincoln shire, in the Presence of above Twenty of his Neighbours, Dr. Lincoln, Parson of the Parish, being also present, did declare, That he never was at a Quakers Meeting, but Once in his Life time; and that at an Assize-time at the Castle of Lincoln he did hear them declare about a Quarter of an Hour, and saith, that Ralph James was then with him; and further saith, That he never was a Quaker, nor owned by any of that People; for, he saith, they never knew him: and further did affirm, That he had no Child Leprous; and that Child the Baptists did say was Leprous, and since Dead, he shown us alive, and in Health: and the said R. Anderson, and his Neighhours did unanimously affirm, That the Child had not any Deprosie, nor other Distemper, save only some Running Sore, which was cured by Directions from one called Ms. Bover, so far as they understand: the said R. Anderson further affirming, that neither himself, nor any of his Family were troubled with any such Painful Distemper, as the Baptists say they had. These things were not only affirmed by the Man himself, but confirmed also by divers Inhahitants of the Town, in the open Street in Panton in Lincolnshire.  
The Five Witnesses then and there present; 

William Garland,  
Joseph Pope,  
Augustine Smith,  
William Baldwin,  
Nathaniel Ball.     
These Persons, whose Names are under-written, were Inhabitants in Panton, and present at the Examination and Answers of Richard Anderson, before Doctor Lincoln their Parson; and they, with divers others then present, said, If Anderson altered from what he had there said, they should be Witnesses against him, and assert what is above certified.  

William Dorrin,  
Robert Minto,  
Henry Walch,  
John Emming,  
Robert Drink,  
Richard Walesby,  
Richard Horton,  
Katherine Hall,  
Samuel mather's,  
George Anderson,  
James Hall,  
John Chapman.   
Now it being so eminently clear, that R. Anderson never was a Quaker, neither in Principle nor Practice; I demand, what though R. A. pronounced R. James a leper? What though his Child had been Leprous? What though himself, his Wise and his Family were afflicted with grievous Pains? what though Ralph James and his Brethren had cured them? Yet what were all this to the Quakers? How is this reflective upon them, who are wholly unconcerned in R. Anderson? For if R. A. were any thing at all, he was most certainly an Anabaptist, whereof T. R. in both his Books hath given evident Demonstration.  
Upon the whole matter it's worth remarking;  
First, That the Glory of the Anabaptist Churches is in its swift Declination toward the Western Horizon; forasmuch as they are say to fly to Signs and Lying Wonders to oppose the ●●th, and to countenance their false Ways and doctrines.  
Secondly, That the Anabaptists Cause in this hot Conflict between them and the ●●akers, is now at the very utmost Crisis 〈…〉 this Champion (who is mostly engaged, when the ●●se grows desperate) is constrained (in so eminent a Danger) to make use of such poor Matter, such pitiful shifts as are the Contents of this whole book now under trial, to the great Regret (doubtless) of their whole Party, or such of them as have not yet sacrificed their Intellects to their Envy. For it was foolishly boasted by divers Professors, and others, That the Book now under examination would be like Hercules 's Club, or Goliath 's Spear; in a word, Unanswerable: And this brings me to the very Heart of the great Controversy, Whether the Holy Spirit, or the Scriptures ought to have Priority?  

The Controversy between the Anabaptists, Independents, together with other Professors, & the People of God called (in Scorn) Quakers, concerning the Authority of the Holy Spirit, in Judging or Discerning the Mind of God in the Holy Scriptures, truly stated as owned by the Quakers.  
WHether the first Penman of the Scriptures was Moses or Hermes, or whether both these are not one; or whether there are not many words contained in the Scriptures, which were not spoken by Inspiration of the Holy Spirit; whether some words were not spoken by the grand Impostor; some by Wicked Men; some by Wise Men, ill applied; some by Good Men, ill expressed, some by False Prophets, and yet true; some by True Prophets, and yet false, is not the Subject of my Argument at this time: But such Scriptures and Prophecies as have been written and prophesied by the Holy Men of God, as they were moved by the Spirit of God, treating of the Mystery of God in the Redemption and Salvation of Mankind by Jesus Christ, and the Duty of Man in his Obedience to, and Worship of the same God, as his reasonable Service for the Gift of so great Salvation, are the great Concerns now under our most serious Consideration.  
The People of God (scornfully called Quakers) have unseignedly believed, and often declared to the World, That the Scriptures (as above distinguished) are a true Record and Declaration of the Love of God in the Redemption and Salvation of Mankind by Jesus Christ; and also of the Duty of Man (as before recited) But they also believe, and have declared to all the World, That the Carnal Mind of Man (being at Enmity with God, and darkened by reason of Wicked Works) cannot perceive nor discern the Mystery of God in the Scriptures declared and testified of: For there is a Veil spread over the Hearts of all Men, even in their Reading of the Scriptures, so as they cannot see through the Letter unto the Mystery, either in abolishing the old Covenant, with its carnal Ordinances, and Beggarly Elements; or in introducing the new Covenant, with its Spiritual Worship and Services; and so being intricated and bewildered in the Letter, cannot possibly attain unto the Knowledge of the Spiritual Mystery. Now this most excellent Truth having by the Spirit of the Lord been opened and revealed to the Quakers, they must of necessity be of this Faith (viz.) That without a Measure of the holy Spirit of God received and turned unto, whereby the Veil is removed from the Heart, no Man living can possibly discern or understand the great Mystery of Man's Salvation by Jesus Christ (which was exhibited in Shadow under the old, but in lively Substance under the new Covenant) although he had a Thousand Bibles in his House, and every word of them at his Finger's ends,  
So that upon this Consideration, the People of God (scornfully) called Quakers do unanimously conclude and declare, and testify unto the whole World, That the Holy Spirit of God is the only supreme Judge, Opener and Revealer of the Mind and Mystery of God, and Duty of Man treated of in the Scriptures.  
This, (oh ye Anabaptists and Independents, and all other Opposers of this eternal Truth in the whole World) this is the true State of the great Controversy betwixt the Quakers and you; and if you will join issue with the Quakers in this Controversy, you must do it as it is here stated (at least in Substance; for I am willing to give place to better words and order from whomsoever) and you must lay aside all your prodigious Signs, and lying Wonders, and pretended Cures; for these will not decide this great Controversy, as ye vainly imagine. And you must bring forth your strong Reasons and sound Arguments, grounded upon plain Demonstrations of Truth, and clear Evidence of Scripture; and if the Truth be on your part, you will be able to make it appear before wise understanding Men (whoever your Opposers are) and you will overcome us if you have the Truth; for great is the Truth, and will prevail; and we must and will submit unto the Truth, and to you. But if the Truth appear on our part, we (in the Wisdom of God) shall make it manifest, & the Truth will stand over your Heads, and we will thresh you and winnow, as the Chaff on the Threshing-Floor; and the Wind of the Lord will blow you away, with your Refuge of Lies, and your Nakedness will be discovered in the sight of all Men.  
Again, This Author (Subter. pag. 5.) falsely suggests to his too credulous Readers, as if the Controversy depending between the Baptists Churches, and the People called Quakers, was touching the holy Scriptures (or to express it more fully (saith he) The Authority of the Holy Ghost, as he speaks in the Scriptures, to try and judge the Spirits of Men, which they term the Spirit of God: Thus he.  
But whether there be not a Lying Spirit (however a Lying Tongue) in the Mouth of this False Prophet, let the Sober-minded judge. And I here challenge him upon his Credit and Reputation with his own People, either to produce in open view one clear Proof, at least of any Declaration, either by word or writing, where any of the Quakers have termed the spirits of Men the Spirit of God; or else let his stand opon record among his own People, as a Liar and a Slanderer to all Generations.  
Again, The Deceit of this Author further appears in his recital of the Narrative; for the first Copy renders R. James and R. A. contending, Whether the Spirit should try the Scripture, or the Scripture the Spirit? [mark, here is Spirit, Spirit in the singular number, as the Spirit of God is but one] but in his recital Subter. p. 7. he renders them contending, Whether the Scriptures were to try the Spirits, or the Spirits to try the Scriptures? It's possible some Readers may judge me too Nice and Critical in this Observe; but I must beg their Excuse (if it be worth begging) for I see his Design in it is, to steal a Conceit unperceived into the Reader's Mind, that the Quakers hold, That the Multifarious Spirits of Men were to try the Scriptures, and not the Scriptures to try that Many-headed Monster. Let all sober People take notice of his spirit in this.  
But its worth our Consideration, what should be the bottom of this Man's Meaning, where he so often makes use of this unusual manner of speaking (viz.) The Authority of the spirit, as he speaks in the Scripture, to try and judge etc. Does he mean that the Authority and Mind of the holy Spirit, respecting the Truths recorded in the Scriptures, is the same at this day as it was in old time when it indicted the Scriptures in the Hearts of the holy Men of God? If so, I must confess, I cannot assign him an Opposite for (saving the change of Dispensations and Rudiments) the blessed Truths revealed or declared of in the Scriptures, are the same now as ever, and with the holy Spirit there is no Variableness, neither any shadow of Turning. Or, if he intent thus (for I would not mistake him, Judging all labour lost that is spent upon mistakes) That seeing it is true, that the holy Spirit gave forth the Scriptures at the first, there is unto this day, such an inseparable and intrinsecal Conjunction, between the Authority and Mind of the Holy Spirit, and the Scriptures, that he that hath the Scriptures, hath the Authority and Mind of the Holy Spirit also. This I confess of the two seems to be nearest his meaning, by how much it is furthest from the Truth; yet, forasmuch as I have it not as his sense, under his own hand, (and also have cause to fear, that if it be his sense, yet when he perceives a Quaker owns it, he will recede from it) he shall find me a fair Opposite.  
That there is an inseparable Conjunction, or Union between the Authority and Mind of the holy Spirit, and the essential or substantial Truth declared in the Scriptures, I grant, and confess unto it (but do not start back now, because a Quaker confesses the Truth, as the manner of most of you is) but that therefore he that has the Scriptures hath also the Authority and Mind of the holy Spirit, I deny. If I have hit right of his meaning (as till I know the contrary under his Hand I believe I have) he ought to prove that part of his Position which is denied; but seeing Truth is precious, as well as Time, and the green-Grass to day, may be withered to morrow; I shall invert my Capacity, take the sword by the Point, and endeavour to prove,  
That a Man may have the Scriptures in his Mother-Tongue and yet be utterly without or ignorant of the Authority and Mind of the holy Spirit.  
For Proof of this Position I shall not stir one Foot from my Opposite, who (in p. 7. of his Subterfuge now under search) tells us, That after R. Anderson had made his Confession of the Anabaptists Faith in that Cardinal Point of Water-Baptism, he met with the Quakers, who told him (as he said) that these things, i. e. Water-Baptism was low. Now here my Opposite interposes his own Faith and Judgement in the Case, and is not afraid to tell the Quakers, and the whole Nation, That the Water-Baptism is the Way of Life above to the Wise, so to procure their more reverend esteem of it; and because he perceived such a bold Averment stood need of Scripture-Authority to back it, he citys Prov. 15.24. the words run thus— The Way of Life is above to the Wise, to avoid from Hell beneath. Now let the Spiritual Man judge in this case; Is Water-Baptism (to take it at the best) the Way of Life? Did the holy Spirit in the Wise Man mean so? Can Water-Baptism deliver or save from Hell? Is that the Authority or Mind of the holy Spirit in that Scripture? Let the Spiritual Man judge.  
I am the Way, saith Christ; Water-Baptism is the Way, saith this Author. I was manifest to destroy the Works of the Devil, and to save from Death and Hell, saith Christ; Water Baptism is the Way on high to avoid from Hell beneath, saith my Opposite, Now whose Testimony will ye receive? Let the sober Christian judge, whither these Anabaptists are going The parallel Scriptures with this are, Phil. 3.20. and Col. 3.1. both which direct us to set our Assections on things above, where Christ is at the Right-Hand of God our Saviour.  
Hence (of necessity) will follow these Conclusions:  
First, Though this Author hath the Scriptures, yet he is ignorant of the Authority and Mind of the Holy Spirit.  
Secondly, Through Ignorance of the Authority and Mind of the Holy Spirit, he hath erred from the Truth, and fairly convict himself, 

1. Of a most gross Idolatry, as hath been fully manifest.  
2. Of a Ridiculous Solecism, in terming Submersion or Plunging under Water, a Way on high. From his Idolatry nothing but a Rebaptisation in the Tears of Repentance towards God, and Faith towards our Lord Jesus Christ can redeem him. But for his Solecism (that Offence being rather against Grammar, than Scripture) if the intelligent Reader will please but to indulge him with a favourable Aspect, the Quakers will pass it by.    
The Third and Last Conclusion is clearly this, as before asserted; That without a Measure of the holy Spirit of God, received and turned unto, whereby the Veil is ●ent from the Heart, no Man living can understand or discern the Authority and Mind of the holy Spirit, as he spoke in old time by his Prophets of the great Mystery now revealed, to wit, Christ in you the Hope of Glory.  
And this gives a full and undeniable Probation unto that grand Position, the Ground and Original of the Anabaptists great Controversy with the Quakers;  
That the holy Spirit of God is the only Supreme Judge, Discerner and Revealer of the Mind and Mystery of God, and of the Duty of Man required in the Scriptures.  
Now if any Man object against this, and say, I have been too rash and hasty to conclude thus, only upon one Man's Error and Mistake, and that many others may notwithstanding be more clear. I answer, Be it far from me to conclude all under this Man's Error and Idolatry; nay, I know there are many of the People of the Lord, who by the Illumination of his good Spirit are enabled to discern in measure, what his Mind and Will is; but if you do but impartially consider the Ground and Cause of this Man's Error and Idolatry; you may perceive the Argument will hold from Particulars to Generals, as thus; If one Man be blind for want of his Eyes, than ten thousand Men, wanting their Eyes, must be blind also. If this Author hath committed a gross Idolatry, for want of the Light of the holy Spirit, then may a whole Nation, wanting the Guidance of the holy Spirit, be Idolaters also. Here you see the Ground and Cause of Blindness and Idolatry is, their Eyes not being opened by the holy Spirit to understand the Scriptures: so the Argument holds true throughout all, and the aforesaid Position is clearly proved, as before was promised.  
And now, oh ye Anabaptists and Independents, who affirm, That the Scriptures are to try and judge of the holy Spirit; come let me expostulate with you a little; What Assurance can you give the Quakers, or what Grounds or Encouragements to believe, in case the Judicial Power were in your Hands, that in your Trial of the holy Spirit by the Scriptures, as he appears in the Quakers, or in whomsoever, your proceed will be more equal, just and clear, and yourselves more free from Mistakes of him then the professing Jews were, when by the same Rule they would try the same holy Spirit, as it appeared (in an immeasurable Measure) in Jesus of Nazareth? Show us (I pray you) wherein you are better, wiser, juster, clearer in your Principles and Judgements, than they? Do you account yourselves the Church of God? So did they. Do you say you have his Commandments and Ordinances? So said they. Have you Anabaptists such a high Esteem of your Baptism, as to account it the Way of Life, to avoid from Hell beneath? The like Esteem had they of their Fleshly Circumcision, as to teach, that without it Men could not be saved. Have you the Scriptures, and do you reckon them a Competent Judge of the Spirit of God? So had they, and in them thought they had Eternal Life; and yet for all this, they knew not the Messiah, of whom the Scriptures testified; but having most wickedly Betrayed, Apprehended and Arraigned him before the Roman Tribunal, methinks I hear the Deputy and them thus implead each other in the Case of the true Messiah.  Pilate, 
What Accusation bring ye against this Man?  Jews, 
If he were not a Malefactor, we would not have delivered him unto thee.  Pilate, 
Deceit lurks in generals; what Evil hath he done?  Jews, 
He perverts the Nation; forbids to pay Tribute to Cesar; saying, himself is Christ a King— In Design (doutbless) to usurp the Empire, and assume Cesar's Revenue.  Pilate, 
Away, away for Shame— What, nothing but Lies and Slanders? I now perceive your Envy. I find no Fault in him at all— ●●le release him.  Jews, 
Crucify him, crucify him.  Pilate, 
Why, what Evil hath he done?  Jews, 
He is a Blasphemer— A horrible Blasphemer, and he ought to die for it.  Pilate, 
Take ye him then, and Crucify him; for I find no Fault in him.  Jews, 
By our Law he should be Stoned to Death, but ye Romans have taken away that Power; it is not lawful for us to put any man to Death.  Pilate, 
Say then what is his Blasphemy?  Jews, 
He is but a Carpenter's Son, we know his Pedigree; and yet he made himself the Son of God, and the Saviour of the World, and that's horrid Blasphemy.  Pilate, 
Son of God my Heart Trembles at that word, ye obdurate Wretches; how appears it that he ought to die for this?  Jews, 
We have a Law, and by our Law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God.  Pilate, 
Produce your Law, that I may see it.  Jews, 
It is in the four and twentieth Chapter of Leviticus, and the sixteenth Verse.  Pilate, 
Read it verbatim.  Jews, 
And he that Blasphemeth the Name of the Lord, shall surely be put to Death; all the Congregation shall Stone him to Death, as well the Stranger, as he that is born in the Land; when he Blasphemeth the Name of the Lord, let him be Slain.  
And now ye Anabaptists and Independents, and thou Author of the Subterfuge, be ingenuous, and tell the Quakers and the whole Nation truly, Whether ye do believe, that the Authority of the holy Spirit, as he speaks in this precited Scripture, did really intent the Murder of the Messiah as a Blasphemer, yea, or nay? if nay (as most certainly nay) then tell us, How it came to pass the Jews should so grossly mistake and misapply it? and show unto us, and to all the World, if you can, what they wanted which might show them the true Mind of the Lord in that place, and in all other Prophecies which spoke of the Messiah; seeing you cannot deny, but they had the Scripture (and according to your deceitful way of wording it the Authority of the holy Spirit, as he speaks in the Scriptures) not only read, but expounded unto them every Sabbath Day.  
If the Jews mistake arose from their Ignorance of the Authority and Mind of the holy Spirit as he spoke forth the Scriptures, as sure enough it did, which it could not have done had they receiv d the Spirit then, behold, the Jews also are found misunderstanding the Scriptures for want of the holy Spirit, as well as my Opposite was, and here's one clear proof more (come unlooked for) of my former position (viz.) That a Man, nay a whole Nation of Men may have the Scriptures in his or their Mother Tongue, and yet be utterly ignorant of the Authority and Mind of the holy Spirit. And therefore the matter standing thus, ye are hereby required and obliged to produce some satisfactory and convincing Reason, why the Quakers should expect more equal proceeding at your hands in the Judgement aforesaid, in case you had the civil Power, than our Lord Jesus Christ found at the Hands of the Jews, seeing you have no more than they had (to wit, the Letter of the Scriptures) to judge withal; and that you have no more than they, appears in this, that you deny the holy Spirit as he appears in his Servants to be the Revealer of the Scriptures and supreme judge of the Spirits and Doctrines of Men: and if ye can produce no such convincing Reason as may give the Quakers reasonable acquiescence in this Concern, forasmuch as they are verily persuaded that although you have the Scriptures, you want the Guidance of the holy Spirit truly to discern them, it lies upon you as a Work of absolute necessity (ye Anabaptists, and thou Author of this Subterfuge) to exhibit unto the Quakers in the Sight of the whole Nation, some pregnant Proof, and infallible Demonstration, that you are not deceitful Sophisters and cunning Jugglers in your doubtful and ambiguous Expressions, and Amphibologies dispersed in sundry places of your Books, and particularly in that called the Subterfuge, as before is noted, about the Scriptures, the Spirits of Men, and the holy Spirit, as he speaks in the Scriptures, etc. which is corrupt and uncertain Language, as you use it; and it is apparent you do it not only of Ignorance, but Wilfulness; and your Deceits therein are made manifest unto all. You are also obliged and required to prove (if you can) positively and plainly, to the Satisfaction of all Men that may doubt thereof, that all Men whosoever, that have the Scriptures, have also the Authority of the Holy Spirit, as he speaketh in them: And show us also how it cometh to pass, that Men mistake them notwithstanding: And you must also prove, That the Scriptures are indeed a Competent Judge of the Holy Spirit, as he appeareth in his Servants: And you must invalidate all, whatsoever is here written, and proved to the contrary. And if you shall fail to do all this by clear Proofs, and evident Demonstrations of Truth (for Trifling and Impertinency will not serve your turn, nor Lies shall no longer be your Refuge) then will your Vizards be taken off your Faces, and your Refuge of Lies will be swept away; and in the sight of the Quakers (whom you Despise) and of the whole Nation, you will appear (to your great Shame and Contempt) to be what indeed you are.  For they that dwell at Jerusalem, and their Rulers, because they knew him not, nor yet the Voices of the Prophets, which are read every Sabbath Day, they have fulfilled them in condemning of him, Acts 13.27.  

A few Queries to Ralph James, and the Author of the Subterfuge Overturned, etc. by them to be Answered in Truth and Plainness.  
I. WHether is our Lord Jesus Christ (whom the Scriptures testify to be the Light and Salvation of God to the Ends of the Earth) the only true Way of Life on high to avoid from Hell beneath, yea, or nay? If yea, then whether to affirm Water-Baptism to be the Way of Life on high, to avoid from Hell beneath, be not abominable Idolatry at least, if not Blasphemy?  
II. Supposing Water-Baptism were the Appointment of God (as other things of like signification in former Dispensations have been) yet if the Ministers thereof should Idolatrously intrude it into the Place and Office of Christ our Saviour; that is, affirm it to be the Way of Life, to avoid from Hell beneath; whether such Idolatrous intrusion be not as signal a Pollution of the said Ordinance of Water-baptism, as the like Abuse of the Ordinances of God Isa. 1. did pollute, and render them abominable unto the Lord? If yea, then whether it be not high time for all and every Man concerned therein to arise, and departed thence, as not being their Rest, it being so filthily polluted?  
III. Seeing the Latin Verb, baptizo, is synonimous with the Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, which signifies to dip or plunge; whether T. R. his calling your Water Baptism dipping in Water, or your calling it the Way of Life on high to avoid from Hell beneath, be the greater Abuse of the Way of the Lord, and therein of God himself? Answer plainly.  
iv Seeing it appears by the Scriptures, that the Apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ wrought their Miracles, 
Acts. 3.6.  and cured Diseases by the Name of Jesus of Nazareth; then, Whether the Sons of Sceva, their pretending to do the like Miracles by the same Name, doth prove them to speak the very Language, and Spirit of the Apostles, yea, or nay? If nay, (as most certainly nay) then with what Reason or Conscience canst thou affirm, that R. Anderson in exhorting R. James to turn to the Light within, spoke the very Language and Spirit of the Quakers? this Query is to the Author of the Subterfuge, etc. that he may clear himself from Deceit, if he can.  
V Whether the Testimony which that Pythoness gave unto the Persons and Doctrine of the Apostle Paul and Sylas, is not given as fully, 
Acts 16.  and at as high a Rate, as any Testimony ye can pretend R. Anderson gave to the Persons or Doctrine of the Quakers? And whether in such Testimony she appeared as a Proselyte of the Christian Faith, and as a Prophetess of the Christians, yea, or nay? if nay, then show unto the Quakers, and the whole Nation, if you can, why R. Anderson his testifying for the Persons and Way of the Quakers (as ye pretend he did, but prove it not) should prove him a Quaker; or appearing as one of their Prophets? he being (by your own Confession) at that Time possessed with a Spirit of Delusion, as she was then with a Spirit of Divination.  
VI Seeing R. James avers in his Narrative, That R. Anderson pronounced him a Leper from the Crown of the Head to the Sole of the Foot, and that the same Judgement (as he said) was fallen upon one of his Children: Whether you are not very deceitful, and unworthy Persons, thus to abuse the Quakers, and the whole Nation, with a Counterfeit and ●orged Story of such a horrid Leprosy, sigh in exchange thereof you are (now at last) glad to accept of a Simple Sore? And if ye think to avoid the Horror of your Gild and Shame with this Evasion, He said so, he said so, (charging the poor Man your own Member with a Lie) Then Whither doth not this evidence to the whole Nation your implacable Envy, and Malice against an Innocent People, that durst (with so great Confidence) attempt to asperse and slander them, only upon the false and single say so, of such a Person as even yourselves then judged to be a false Prophet, and possessed with a Spirit of Delusion? And if your inveterate Envy and Malice herein be manifest to the Nation, as doubtless it is, then let the Nation and the whole World judge, whether R. James be not infected with a more dangerous Leprosy then ever Mirjam was, and like to continue so (without Repentance) until his Dying Day.  
VII. It being evident to the Nation that R. Anderson was no Quaker, his Child not leprous, his Wife and Family not so diseased, as you pretended, nor your Church such Workers of Miracles, as you boasted; but your whole pretence a mere malicious Juggle and Imposture, which yet you pretend to be an Eminent Hand of God Such a Witness of God, little less than a Miracle, tending to the Honour of God, Exaltation of his Ways, and Appointments, Establishments of his People, Decision of the great Controversy, Strength to the weak Hands, and feeble Knees of his poor People, etc. and then to conclude thus, And the Lord was mercifully pleased to hear our poor Prayers for them, and to restore them, etc. with such like seeming devout Words wherewith your Letters and Narrative are : All this considered, it's queried, whether the Quakers, and the whole Nation, may not (without the least Breach of Charity) safely conclude, that ye Anabaptists and Independents, who have been either Actors, Contrivers, Asserters of, or Witnesses to this Mischievous piece of Pageantry, are the most notorious Dissemblers with God and the World, and the veriest Hypocrites that ever our Lord Jesus Christ pronounced Woe against? Quit yourselves if you can.  
VIII. Whether they that make no Conscience to be Jugglers, Liars, Hypocrites, proud Boasters, and the like; or they that discover, detect and affirm them to be such, are the great Offenders?  
IX. Whether they that call and are called Rabbi, Rabbi, do not break that express Command of Christ, Mat. 23.8, 10. yea, or nay? If nay, then show, when that Precept was abrogated? and if yea, then whether are not they that call, and are called, Mr. Ralph James, Mr. Ben. Morley, Mr. John Green, etc. Breakers of that plain Command, and being guilty of that, are guilty of all, notwithstanding their Water-Baptism?  
Let these Queries be answered plainly, and in sound words; and think not to solve one Query by propounding another.  
R. R.   

Another Postscript TO RALPH JAMES; And those which have taken part with him, by JOHN WHITEHEAD.  
AS in a Postscript annexed to the Answer to your Narrative, of the Eminent Hand of God that besel a Quaker and his Family, called Richard Anderson, at the Town of Panton in Lincolnshire, I queried, and that upon just Grounds, Why thou and thy Brethren had conspired together, to utter a Slander and Reproach against the People of God called Quakers, in affirming Richard Anderson to be one of them? And again, in a Book entitled, The Quakers Subterfuge or Evasion Overturned; ye have given me just Ground to say, How long will you make Lies, your Refuge, and under Falshood seek to cover yourselves? For instead of Answering what was Righteously and Reasonably propounded to you, which ye should have done, if ye would have approved yourselves Innocent Men, ye have utterred more deceitful and pernicious Slanders against me, as is manifest in your Anti-queries to me, whilst ye have utterly declined proving your former, not being able to mention one of the People of God called Quakers, that ever owned Richard Anderson, nor any of their Meetings, to which he did belong; nor who of them he did ever join with in the Worship of God; nor any thing in Proof, That his Child was smitten with Leprosy, nor himself and Family with a grievous Malady, saving his own word, whom you conclude was a false Prophet, and deluded Creature, both subject to speak and believe Lies. And therefore your Narrative and ye are justly fallen under Censure, having no better Foundation whereon to stand, than the Testimony of a Simple Deluded Man, whom ye have manifest to be a Lying Prophet; which Testimony ye have by cross Examination, if not Subornation obtained; and therefore not any can give credit to it, but such as are willing to believe a thing, because a Lying Ignorant Man saith it, who hath unsaid it again before many Witnesses, as before is manifest: And therefore I shall not further insist upon it, but proceed to answer your Anti-Queries. In the first of which ye affirm, that I hold, That the Gospel was never Preached in England, till George Fox preached it; and then queries, Whether I did not assert it? thereby manifesting your Rashness and Injustice, who first Condemn, and then make Enquiry; not being able to prove, what ye have charged me with: For sure I am, That I never thought, that George Fox was the first that ever preached the Gospel in England; and therefore have been far from affirming it; for there have been Openings and Breaking's forth of the Gospel, Light and Power in divers Ages, in England, in a Despised Suffering Remnant, though not in that Fullness a● in our Age. I am also sensible ever since I knew God, or was acquainted with him, how the Glorious Gospel was preached to, or in every Creature which is under Heaven, Col. 1.23. and it's own Light shined in Men's Hearts (as the Apostles testified) in their days, about which time there were also Witnesses of that Glorious Gospel came to preach it in this Island (according to History) who turned People from Darkness to Light, as we do, and from Satan's power to the Power of God; in which Power a Remnant have been preserved through Ages and Generations, though many who have got the Form have denied the Power, and reproached and persecuted those, which have been in the Power, Light and Life, which the Apostles and primitive Christians were in. From which Power, Light and Life there hath been an Apostasy, so that Darkness has covered the Earth, & gross Darkness has been upon the generality of People, who have been estranged from the Life of the Prophets, and Apostles, and primitive Christians & Martyrs of Jesus: since which Apostasy, or Falling away from the Life, which the Witnesses and Martyrs of Jesus were in, George Fox was the first stable Minister of the true Light in this Age, that God raised up in his Power to turn People from Darkness to the True Light, and from Satan's power to God; unto which he first, and many more since in these latter days have given witness, That he lighteth every Man that cometh into the World, that all through him might believe, and receive the Remission of Sins. And in this Gospel I have Laboured, and not in vain, and of it am not ashamed; for it is the Power of God to Salvation in all them that believe: Though unto those that are Disobedient, it is a Stone of Stumbling, and Rock of Offence. And 'tis no marvel that those, which stumble at the Word, which is nigh in their Hearts, and are unsensible of its Power and Virtue, stumble at the Testimony, which is given of it by those, which have felt and handled it, and do know 'tis the same Glorious Gospel, which in the Apostles days shined in their Hearts, and gave them the Knowledge of the Glory of God in the Face of Jesus Christ: and this Treasure they had, and we have in Earthen Vessels, that the Excellency of the Power may be of God, to whom be the Praise forever, 2 Cor. 4.6, 7.  
Secondly, thou enquirest, whether he that holds, that nothing which was mortal was called Christ, doth not thereby deny the Death of Christ: thereby intimating that I asserted, That nothing which was Mortal was called Christ. But what Occasion, thou Thomas Grantham (who was then my Opposite) and I am persuaded, Opposite to Truth itself) gavest me to speak Words to that Purpose, with other Words, that did declare my Sense of them, thou sayest nothing, nor hast thou been so ingenuous as to declare, what I writ many Years ago to William Smith of Elshem to be communicated to thee and thy Brethren, wherein the Truth of what I said in that Case, & also the other, whereupon thou groundest thy third Query concerning Christ's having no Body of Flesh (as thou imaginest) besides his Church is made apparent; and therefore I shall here insert the substance of it, seeing it stands upon thy Head unanswered; so that the intelligent Reader may understand, that he who sayeth, that I told him, nothing which was mortal was called Christ, hath both wronged me and the Truth itself, by relating some of my Words out of that Order and Sense wherein they were spoken, as also in that he hath left out and not declared the rest of my Words, which were spoken at the same Time, whereby the true Sense of those Words which he relates might and may be understood, and therein he hath showed, First, That his Mind is so prejudiced and byassed against us, that he would for advantage, rather wilfully mistake our Principles, then have a right Understanding of them: And he hath further showed his Dishonesty and Malice, in that he would misinform others, and prejudice them against the Truth itself, by wresting my Words out of the Sense wherein they were spoken: Wherefore that you may rightly understand this case, I declare, that the Words which were spoken by me, were spoken in an Exclusive Sense, and that upon the Occasion of T. G's. Magnifying the Body of Christ equal with or above him for whom the Body was prepared: whereupon I still say, that the Christ or Son of God is not made up of that which is or was mortal, and that nothing which was mortal, was (properly or strictly) called Christ; & he neither understood my Words right, nor would admit me to explain them, till he had rashly condemned them as Heresy. Which notwithstanding I still look upon the Words to be very true Words in that Sense that they were spoken in; for I say still, that the Body of Christ, which was mortal (excluding the Soul and Spirit) was not, nor could properly be called Christ, or Man anointed, because that the Immortal Soul and Spirit of man are the more Noble part of Man, and therefore may Justly challenge the Prerogative to denominate; for without Soul and Spirit a mortal Body neither is, nor can truly be termed Man: no more can the mortal Body of Christ without the Soul, Spirit and Life of Christ, which is Immortal, be termed Christ: which if you do but understand and mark well, that although I said, nothing which was mortal, was called Christ, but that Christ had once a mortal Body, which died upon the Cross: then may ye more easily judge, whether it be possible forem or any other, which Thomas Grantham hath a Mind to slander, to escape the Scourge of his Tongue, since he is so blindly rash, upon no better Grounds to charge me both with grievous Heresy and denying the Body of Christ; and that for no other Reason, but because I distinguish betwixt Christ, and the Body of Christ, which was prepared for him to do his Father's Will in, Heb. 10.  
And the Eternal Word or Son of God, which was glorified with the Father before the World began, John 17. Who took upon him the Form of a Servant, and in that prepared Body did his Father's Will, is more noble both in Glory and Dignity, then either the Soul, Spirit or Body of Man, in as much as by and for him Man was made, and by him only Redeemed and Restored.  
Therefore may and ought he (who was and is that true Light, that lighteth every Man that cometh into the World, Joh. 1.9.) to be held forth and preached as the only Lord and Saviour of Mankind: and the Manhood which through Mercy to us was taken into Union with this Eternal Power and Godhead, should not be divided from, nor cried up in Opposition to the Eternal Word or Son of God, as they who only know Christ after the Flesh, are too subject to do. And of them is he who in his 3d Query renders me unfit to preach the Resurrection, Ascension, and second Coming of Christ, because I could not own, that he hath such a Body, as he had imagined; but did testify of and have showed unto People that Eternal Life, which was with the Father, as the Apostles did 1 John 1.1, 2. by and in which Life Mortality was swallowed up, after Christ had finished what the Father gave him to do on Earth. Then he who came down from Heaven to bring Man to God, ascended into Heaven to his Father, and our Father, at whose right Hand, having accomplished his Work, he sitteth down, and is glorified with that Glory which he had with the Father before the World began in a Body suitable to his Spirit, consisting of heavenly Flesh and Bone; of which Body neither T.G. the Author of these Queries, nor Natural Philosophers in their Wisdom do comprehend the Dimensions; and therefore would limit him in some thing; who ascended, that he might fill all things, Eph. 4.10. and is not contained in any Created Being, so as to be absent from other created Being's, Ep. 2.20, 21, 22, 23. and much less is he absent from his faithful Disciples, and Followers, who whilst on Earth were and are made to sit together in Heavenly Places in Christ Jesus, Eph. 2.5, 6. And that Christ hath such a Celestial Body, as I have here described, I never denied neither at Spilsby, Sleeford, nor elsewhere, as Thomas Grantham, with whom I have publicly Disputed in those Places, slanderously reports I did: but I am persuaded that he cannot bring one of these several Hundreds of People, that heard us, which is not biased to his Judgement, or influenced by him, that will say, I denied Christ to have now any Body besides his Church: though I have several times denied T. G's Assertion, wherein he hath affirmed, That Christ hath now a Body of Flesh and Bones circumscript, or limited in that Heaven which is above, and out of every Man on Earth. And perceiving that he stood conceited in his Fleshly Apprehension and Knowledge, wherein he had conceived the Lord of Glory to be like unto Corruptible Man, I asked him, Since be denied Christ to be in and with Believers whilst upon Earth, where that Body was he spoke on, and how big, or what a one it was? To which he answered in his haste, That it was such a one as his, consisting of Flesh and Bones and in yonder Heaven, which is above, pointing towards the Clouds: to which I replied, Nay thy Flesh is sinful, and corruptible, and Rotteness shall enter into thy Bones; neither can thy Body come in the doors being shut, nor appear in another Form, as Christ did, whereupon he mended his Words, and did except Sin and Corruption; but still stood in that which discerns not the Lords Body, but would limit it to a particular Place, and out of every Man on Earth, showing his Ignorance both of the Kingdom of God which is within, and of Christ within, who is not a Spirit without a Body as Believers do experience, who were and are true Members of his Heavenly Body of his Flesh and of his Bones, Ep. 5.30. and these do eat Christ's Flesh, and drink his Blood, and dwell in Christ, and Christ in them. John. 6. and the Spirit and Body of Christ is not divided; but wheresoever the Spirit and Life of Christ is, it is in the Body of Christ; and they which believe, have Eternal Life abiding in them, whereby they are quickened, and joined to the Heavenly Body of Christ, and also supplied with Nourishment in him, who is the Head of the Body, the Fullness of him that filleth all in all.  
But notwithstanding I have freely declared that, which was and is my faith concerning the Body of Christ, I perceive that T. G. hath very uncharitably resolved (because he cannot discern the Lord s Body, of which we speak) to believe, That I own no Body of Christ, but the Church; and what ever I say to the contrary, he would have to be obscured, or else he might have had the honesty to have printed this Answer to his Second and Third Queries with the Queries thmselves: for it hath been in the Hands of him, or his brethren above seven Years. Wherefore I shall now appeal to God and spiritually minded men to judge, Whether I, who did, & do confess Christ's Glorious heavenly Body, or he who cannot discern it; but hold forth a Circumscript human Body of Flesh and Bones out of every believer, whilst on Earth, we are Worthy to be rendered as deniers of the Body of Christ, and unfit to preach the Resurrection, Ascension and Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.  
4. Query. Whether by the Words people of God thou meanest the Church of Christ in visible profession of the Gospel according to the pattern of the Churches in the Apostles Days?  
Answ. by the words People of God I mean such, as are in the new Covenant of Light, in whose Heart God hath written his Laws, and in whose inward Parts he hath put his Fear, who know and believe Christ in them, and do hear his Voice, and follow him as their Head and Leader, as did the true Churches in the Apostles Days; but I do not believe every gathering of people, that are got into an outward or visible Profession of the Scriptures, and in Imitation have gotten into some outward things, which the true Church in the Apostles Days practised, are the People of God. because I am sensible, such as are Aliens in their minds from the Life of God, which the Apostles and primitive Christians were in, may get their Words, and imitate them in Outward Forms, and Practices, whilst they deny the Power of Godliness, which they lived in.  
5th Query. Whether the People called Quakers are gathered, constituted and governed in Church-Capacity, according to the Doctrine of Christ and his Apostles?  
Answ. Yea: for we are gathered in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is present with us, as he promised to be always to the end of the World; and we are governed by him, who is given to be the Head over all Things, to the Church, of which we are Members, and have Elders ordained in every Country, who take the Oversight of the Flock of God not by Constraint, but willngly, and in the Power of the Lord Jesus receives True Believers, and rejects Heretics, who have refused Admonition, according to the Apostle's Doctrine, who was an able Minister, not of the Letter, but of the Spirit. And notwithstanding Christ's bidding the other Apostles before his Ascension, Go, Teach and Baptise all Nations, said: He was not sent to Baptise, but to Preach the Gospel; and how ye, who are so much for Water-Baptism, come to take yourselves concerned to Baptise with Water by Virtue of that Commission given before Christ's Ascension, ye may do well to manifest; since the Apostle Paul did not so take himself concerned in it: but according to that Commission, which he received from the Lord, who appeared unto him, delivering him from the People, and the Gentiles, he laboured to open the blind Eyes, and to turn them from Darkness to Light, and from Satan's power to God, Acts 16, 17, 18. as we do according to the Call and Precepts given us of the Lord, who is also manifest in us, by whom we are taught not to run, because others were sent; nor to act without Power from on High: but to go as we are led and commanded by the Lord, and act in the Motion of his Power, whereby we have been made a Sweet Savour to God in them that believe, and in them that perish; though in one the Savour of Life unto Life, and in the other the Savour of Death unto Death: and God hath so blessed our Labour, that many Thousands are brought to the Knowledge of the Son of God, and to Unity in the Faith, which gives Victory over the World, wherein they are growing to a perfect Man, and to the Measure, Fullness and Stature of Christ: Though we thank God, we have Baptised none of them in Water, but have instructed them to the blessed Appearing of the Lord. Jesus Christ, who Baptised with the Holy Ghost and with Fire, having his Fan in his Hand, throughly to purge the Floor; and those which have waited for the Appearing of the Lord, and received him to be their Leader, Way and Baptizer, are baptised with one Spirit into that one Body which is his Church, of which they are Living Members, fitly joined together by Christ, who is their Head, who gives them Life, and sills them with the Virtue of his Love, wherein they Edisie one another. So Christ is the Door into the Sheepsold, whereat all that are accepted by him, do enter. And this way of gathering, constituting and governing the Church is according to the Doctrine of Christ, his Evangelists and Apostles, as appeareth at large in their Writings.  
And although thou in thy 6th Query sayest, doubtless it is not, because we are not gathered according to thy Apprehension of some particular Verses quoted by thee. I must tell thee, thou therein takest that granted, which we never gave thee; and therefore we need show no Authority for the Abrogating that Order of Gathering, Constituting and Governing the Church of Christ, which was in the Apostles days; since our Practice doth more establish it in the Substantial Part, than yours, who have visible Doors whereat to enter, as your Water-Baptism instead of Christ's Baptism, and other Ways whereat to climb up like Thiefs and Robbers, Joh. 1. which steal the Saints words, and imitate their Practices, as in all Ages False Prophets have imitated the True, and False Worshippers have imitated the True Worshippers, as ye do; thinking because Christ said before his Ascension, Go teach all Nations, Baptising them in the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit; therefore Thomas Grantham and Ralph James must go Teach and Baptise in Water, though they have neither seen the Lord Jesus Christ, nor heard him speak. Nor will they believe in the holy Spirit, as the principal Guide, but have the Boldness to try its Doctrine or Teaching in these days by their own understanding of the Scriptures, which ever leads men to speak Evil of, and condemn those things, which they cannot understand to be according to Scriptures, though they be never so consonant to the Mind of the Spirit, which they received which gave forth the Scriptures: And therefore, laying aside all vain Jangling, we would persuade you, and all men, to learn of Christ Jesus, the Second Man, that is a Quickening Spirit, by whom ye are reproved, when ye do Evil, that ye may know his Mind in yourselves, and do it, and then ye may better understand it, as declared by others.  
Although thy Seventh Antiquery is in part answered by what is before written, yet I shall now manifest, That Richard Anderson neither was conversant with us, nor received our Doctrine, nor acted by that Spirit which guides us, as in that Query thou affirmest: for if he had been conversant with us, some of us at least should have known him; but that we never did, witness this Certificate from a Quarterly Meeting at Lincoln, who certainly know all that are or have been of us.  

From a General Meeting of the People of God called Quakers in the County of Lincoln, the 26th Day of the 4th Month, 1672.  
WHereas a Report is gone out of this County from Ralph James, and other Persons, which have always had a Prejudice against the Truth, and People of God called Quakers; by which Report the Nation is Abused, and those which are over-credulous, made to believe a Lie, (viz.) That Richard Anderson of Panton was a Quaker. These are therefore to certify, that the said Richard Anderson did never frequent any of our Meetings, nor did he ever join with us in Worship, nor was he ever owned by us, nor any of us; so that they have not any just Ground to call him a Quaker. And this Testimony we give forth to preserve the Simple-hearted from being prejudiced against Truth, and from believing a Lye.  
Given forth at a Quarterly Meeting held at Lincoln, where some Friends from each Meeting in the County were present. 

William Garland,  
Abraham Morice,  
William Everatt,  
Joseph Richardson,  
Augustin Smith,  
John Winklep,  
Samuel Hobman,  
John Richardson,  
Tho. Summer,  
Rich. Baxter,  
John Walcot,  
Tho. Sowter,  
John Mills,  
Joseph Pope,  
Thomas Wresle,  
William Ashby,  
William Hargate,  
James Browne,  
William Bowman,  
Robert Browne,  
Tho. Everatt,  
Rich. Parnell,  
Joseph Wilson.     
And if Richard Anderson had received our Doctrine, he had been Still and Quiet in the Light of God, till his Heart had been cleansed from Ignorance, Pride and Wickedness; and that would have preserved him from that Shame and Dishonour, which his own Folly and Madness, and your Subtlety hath brought him to. And if he had been led by the same Spirit, that leads us, it would not have let him use his Tongue to say, The Lord saith, when the Lord had not spoken to him, but his own Imaginations in a groundless Imitation of the Scriptures, which Imaginations he followed; and therefore both the Spirit and Scriptures, and we, who are led thereby, are clear from all the Evil he hath done, and it lies at his and your Doors, amongst whom he both before, then, and after walked; for he had not any Demonstrable Character of being a Quaker (as in Reproach they were first called) nor may any be justly termed so, but those that fear God, and tremble at his Word, who have believed in the True Light, and live in God's Power, being exercised in Obedience to his Law written in the Heart, and in Self-denial taking up the daily Cross to their own Wills and Wisdom, and in Silence to that waits on God, that they may worship in Spirit, and walk after the Spirit of God, by which they are Baptised into the Body of Christ, which is his Church, who receives them as living Members, having the Savour of that Life, which the Spirit has given them. And no other way do we take. Members into the Church, but are constant in this, as is visible to those that are conversant with us, & have the immortal Eye opened. But we shut not our Doors to hinder any from coming into our Congregations to observe our Order and hear our Testimony: Yet as the Apostle said concerning a Jew, I say concerning a Quaker, He is not one, that is one Outwardly in Show only; but he is one, that is one Inwardly, whose Baptism is that of the Spirit, and whose Praise is not of Men, but of God. But that Richard Anderson was neither one Outwardly nor Inwardly, is sufficiently made manifest by what hath been already said.  
In a Postscript writ by this Author he seems to own the Light within, but hath sufficiently showed his Ignorance of that True Light, which lighteth every Man that cometh into the World; as also of its Power and Efficacy, putting Darkness instead of Light, and then tells of several things that are wholly beyond the Common Principle of Light, Understanding or Judgement of Man; which Light being of Man, is indeed Darkness since the Fall, and therefore the things of God belonging to Man's Eternal Peace, are all so far beyond it, that the Natural Man with his own Light, Understanding or Judgement that he hath of himself as a Man, perceives them not. And therefore we dissuade Men from following their own Spirit, Understanding or Judgement, and persuade them to receive and follow Christ Jesus that True Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the World, that he may give them an Understanding that is True, and a Judgement that is Sound: And beyond him, that was and is the True Light, that lighteth every man that cometh into the World, there is nothing; for by him was All Things made; and whatsoever hath been known of God to Men, he hath manifested or revealed it, though at sundry Times and in divers Manners. And though Men have the Scriptures, which declare, what was revealed to Men by that true Light, and an Understanding or Judgement which is Natural; yet thereby there is not any, which truly know God, or what he requires of them, nor ever can they know him, till they turn to that true Light, which shines in their Hearts, and is not of Man, but of God; who in his own Light, or Son, that lighteth every Man that cometh into the World, manifests and reveals himself, and his Will and Mind to Man, being wholly sufficient, and also present to teach man in this Age, what belongs to their eternal Peace, as he was in Ages past; and also to give unto men positive Laws and Directions, how they must Worship and Serve him; being no more bound from altering or abolishing outward & shaddowy things at first practised by some in the Church since the Coming of Chest, than he was from altering Circumcision, Sacrifices & other Jewish Orders & Observances, which Moses, & some of the Prophets had said should continue sorever, or throughout their Generations; but may lay aside, and draw his People from outward Observations or visible Signs and Shadows of Things, when he sees them Idolised or Abused, or that the Substance of them is come, as he did Circumcision, Sacrifices and Pass-over. And therefore this Author ought not to limit him to outward Ordinances and Shadows from Christ's Coming to the End of the World, no more than he was limited before Abraham's time, or before the Coming of Christ: nor ought he to accuse the Quakers, as opposing themselves against things required by the positive Laws, because they cannot own his Water-Baptism & Breaking of Bread in Imitation of the Apostles, and primitive Christians; no more than the professing Jews ought to have accused the Apostle Paul, and his Fellow-Labourers in the Gospel, for denying the positive Laws, who by the Authority and Power of Christ in them cried down their Circumcision, Temple-worship, and that Hand writing of Ordinances, which was contrary to them. And as little Reason has he to accuse us, since we only by the Power of the Lord cry down their Baptising with Water by virtue of a Commission, that was given to other men to Baptise into the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit; which Baptising with Water, and other Imitations (not to be inferred thence) they so much Idolised, as to term them the Way of Life above, and to deliver from Hell beneath, and press them as absolutely necessary to Salvation, though they can show us no Scriptures, which so terms them, and holds, them forth; and therefore should they not as such be received. So whilst this Author would prove us opposite to the positive Laws of God, and not sincere favourers of the Light within; he is found in that state himself, for as much as he puts man's Changeable Understanding and Judgement, which is Darkness, for Light, and thereby would so Obscure the Glory and Lustre of that true and unchangeable Light, which Lighteth every Man that comes into the World, as if there were many things, which he hath no Cognisance or Knowledge of, though indeed no secret is hid from him, and as if he had no power now to teach and direct people in this day (contrary to fallible men's apprehensions of the Scriptures) how people should worship and serve God? but were limited to outward and shaddowy things, which he calls positive Laws, when as indeed all who are gathered in the New Covenant, have the substance itself, the Law in the Heart, to which they are to be Obedient, and know the Lord to be their Law giver and Leader, who is also a Light to the Gentiles, that he may be for Salvation to the ends of the Earth. Wherefore this Author and all people may do well to come to that Light, that therein they all may know God, from the least to the greatest, and be taught by him, least trusting to their own natural understanding, and Judgement to perform worship to God, and not to his holy Spirit, which is but the Light of their own fire, they at last be forced to lie down in Sorrow.  
Lincoln the ●2. day of ●th 11. Monteh 1672. John Whitche●d.   

Something added by C. H.  
TO the Intent none may stumble concerning the Contrariety, that appears by Certificates printed o● both hands relating to Rich. Anderson, let the Reader observe; I being in London the 7th of the 2d Month, 1673. met with Tho. Wilson of Atherstone in Warwickshire, who has been reputed a Baptist Teacher for many years, who told me to this Effect, That he had been on purpose at Panton in Lincolnshire to seek after the truth of the Matter; and making inquiry of One of the Chief of that Place, as to the Credit of R. A. had this Answer returned; That he did believe, if the Quakers came one Day to R. A. whatsoever he did Say or Confess to them, yet if the Baptists did come on the Morrow, he would say any thing) they would have him to say. Therefore all honest inquirers by this and other things, that do appear so plain, may safely thus conclude, That the Foundation and Bottom of all the Baptists Building here in being found so Rotten and Deceitful, the whole Building thereupon is like unto it, and shall all fall down together, to the Shame and Confusion of all such, who hereby have made Lies their Refuge, and foolishly taken the Name of the Lord in vain.  
C. H.   
THE END.