BX 7741 .S35 A3 1845 
 Scattergood, Thomas, 1748- 
 
 1814 . 
 Memoirs of Thomas 
 
Digitized by the Internet Archive 
 in 2015 
 
 https://archive.org/details/memoirsofthomassOOscat 
 
DEC 14 1917 
 
 MEMOIRS 
 
 OF 
 
 THOMAS SCATTEEGOOD, 
 
 LATE OF PHILADELPHIA, 
 A MINISTER OF THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST. 
 
 COMPILED FOR THE AMERICAN FRIENDS' LIBRARY, 
 CIIIEPLY FROM HIS NOTES AND LETTERS, 
 
 By WILLIAM EVANS and THOMAS EVANS. 
 
 " The memory of the just is blessed." — Prov. x. 7. 
 
 LONDON : 
 
 CHARLES GILPIN, 5, BISHOPSGATE STREET WITHOUT. 
 
 YORK, JOHN L. LINNEY \ BIRMINGHAM, H. NEWMAN ; BRIGHTON, 
 A. WALLIS ; CARLISLE, SCOTT & BENSON. 
 
 1845. 
 
LONDON: 
 RICHARD BARRETT, PRINTER, 
 MARK LANE. 
 
INTRODUCTION 
 
 BY 
 
 THE EDITORS OF THE AMERICAN FRIENDS' LIBRARY. 
 
 The memoranda from which the following account of our 
 beloved friend, Thomas Scattergood, is chiefly drawn, appear to 
 have been penned for the information of his family and his own 
 instruction and improvement, without any view to their being 
 made public. They enter more into private and personal details 
 than would be proper to meet the public eye, and often with a 
 degree of minuteness which would be tedious to the general 
 reader. It was therefore necessary to omit much of this descrip- 
 tion of matter ; to correct some grammatical inaccuracies and 
 sometimes to transpose a sentence for the sake of perspicuity. 
 
 The reader will perceive that our dear friend was one of those 
 who knew what it was to be " in deaths oft to be brought very 
 low after seasons of Divine favour, and often to partake, accord- 
 ing to his measure, of that bitter cup which was drunk in its 
 fulness by his Lord and Saviour. But these seasons of conflict 
 and suffering, painful as they might be at the time, were blessed 
 to him as a means of preservation, and of preparing him, not 
 only to minister more effectually to the suffering and oppressed 
 seed of God; but also to partake more largely of those consola- 
 tions which are in Christ, when He, in whose hand are the times 
 and seasons, saw meet to change the dispensation, and permit him 
 to partake with his blessed Lord in his resurrection into dominion 
 and glory. Few persons, it is believed, were preserved more 
 steadily in a state of inward exercise and retirement of spirit, 
 waiting on the Lord, or given to see more clearly, or to minister 
 more pertinently to, the states of meetings and individuals, — and 
 few have left behind them more seals to the baptizing and con- 
 vincing power of their gospel ministry. 
 
TESTIMONY 
 
 Of the Monthly Meeting of Philadelphia, for the Northern District, 
 concerning Thomas Scattergood. 
 
 From the love we feel for the memory of this our dear friend, and 
 the continued sense we have of his fervent pious engagements, it 
 appears to be a duty to posterity to transmit some account of his 
 life and conversation. 
 
 He was born in the city of Burlington, New Jersey, of parents 
 professing belief in the doctrines and principles held by us as a 
 religious Society : his father dying whilst he was young, he was 
 placed an apprentice in this city ; and though often sensible of the 
 checks of Divine grace, which condemn for sin, he followed the 
 inclination of his own corrupt will, which led into estrangement 
 from the path of peace ; till being in mercy visited with a hum- 
 bling sense of his miserable condition, he turned at the reproofs of 
 instruction, and submitting to the gentle manifestations of light 
 upon his understanding, was enabled to bear the Cross of Christ, 
 and became qualified to extend advice and counsel to others. Under 
 those exercises, a sense of a call to the ministry of the gospel was, 
 in the wisdom and love of God, communicated to his mind ; but 
 through great reluctance to yield to this awful work, he forbore 
 for several years, and thereby brought upon himself very deep dis- 
 tressing conflicts. At length, whilst accompanying a Friend who 
 had been here on a religious visit, the impression of Divine requir- 
 ing being renewed upon him, his mouth was opened with a few 
 words in a religious meeting ; and after his return, he expressed 
 at times in our religious assemblies, a few sentences in a tender 
 broken manner, much to the satisfaction of his friends ; and con- 
 tinuing stedfast under many baptisms and trials, he was remarkably 
 careful that no part of his conduct might lessen the force of the 
 doctrine which he had to preach to others. Keeping faithful to 
 the intimations of duty, he became prepared for more extensive 
 service ; and with the concurrence of the Monthly Meeting, pro- 
 ceeded to fulfil a prospect he had of a religious visit to the meetings 
 
Vi TESTIMONY CONCERNING THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 of Friends within the government of New York, and part of New 
 England, and was favoured to return with the reward of peace. 
 Thus diligently labouring in the work of the ministry, he was for 
 many years much from home, visiting meetings in various phices, 
 particularly in Maryland, Virginia, and Carolina, where he ex- 
 perienced much close exercise and proving of faith and patience; 
 but through the goodness and power of the blessed Shepherd of 
 Israel, whose help is ever near for the support of his humble 
 dedicated servants, he was carried through all, to the comfort of 
 his own mind, and the satisfaction of his friends. 
 
 The prospect of making a visit to the churches in Europe being 
 opened upon his mind, and meekly abiding under the weight of this 
 exercise until it was ripe for the information of his friends, he was 
 induced to spread it before them ; and obtaining their unity and 
 sympathy, he embarked, and arrived in England in the year 1794. 
 Much deep and silent exercise was often his lot, but as resignation 
 and patience were maintained, he was enabled to discharge what 
 appeared to be his duty ; and labouring for several years in the 
 fulfilment of this arduous service, he experienced the near unity 
 and fellowship of Friends in those countries, and came away in the 
 enjoyment of peace, under a sense of the immediate protecting 
 providence of Him, who is to his children a sure rock and never- 
 failing refuge. He continued mostly at home for several years, 
 diligently attending the respective meetings of which he was a 
 member, and also other religious services. 
 
 He was much devoted to the promotion of the cause of truth 
 and righteousness, and through the efficacy of heavenly love, was 
 at times enabled to say, it was more to him than his necessary 
 food ; but being sensible of his various infirmities, he was frequent 
 in inward retirement, and hence his mind became strengthened in 
 watchfulness against those things which interrupt the aspiration 
 of the soul towards the Fountain of everlasting life ; being thereby 
 made quick in the fear of the Lord, he increased in solid experience, 
 and gradually advanced in the way and work of salvation. His 
 example in silent waiting in our religious meetings was instructive, 
 and in the exercise of his gift, it was evident that he had been 
 careful to feel the putting forth of the Divine hand, being at times 
 eminently endued with a clear discernment of the states of meet- 
 ings and individuals, and in the power of the gospel, was made 
 instrumental to baptize many into deep contrition, through a heart- 
 felt sense of their own condition. Thus, as a scribe well instructed 
 unto the kingdom, he brought forth out of the treasury things new 
 
TESTIMONY CONCERNING THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 Vll 
 
 and old, to the edification of the body and to the praise of its ever 
 adorable Head. 
 
 His sympathy with the afflicted was often manifest ; and the 
 situation of those in necessitous circumstances peculiarly claiming 
 his tender regard, occasioned his frequently bringing to the notice 
 of his brethren their suffering condition, that their benevolent 
 endeavours might be exerted for their alleviation. 
 
 He was so' tender of the reputation of all, that he could not 
 take the liberty of expressing any thing to lessen it, nor was he 
 easy to hear others in such a practice. 
 
 He attended several sittings of our Yearly Meeting in the 
 Fourth Month, 1814, and was taken unwell the 21st. The dis- 
 order, though apparently not alarming at the commencement, 
 in a short time greatly prostrated his strength : yet he was pre- 
 served throughout in much quietness and sweetness of spirit ; 
 was frequently pleasant and cheerful ; his concern for the pros- 
 perity of Zion was still the prevalent engagement of his mind, 
 and he often inquired how the Yearly Meeting was advancing in 
 its important business. 
 
 On the third day of his illness, a friend sitting by him expressed 
 he felt a peaceful solemnity — he replied, " So do I ; my mind is 
 centred in quiet, peaceful resignation." On the next day those 
 about him apprehended he was near departing, but reviving a little, 
 he at intervals expressed nearly as follows ; " This is the last 
 piece of the garment that is to be worked up ; and if I can be 
 favoured to join the righteous of every generation, it will be 
 enough." Again — " Well, I don't know that I have much to say 
 for myself ; I leave it to the Lord, the Shepherd that sleepeth not 
 by day nor slumbereth by night, who watcheth over his children 
 and over his flock :" Again : " I hope that a righteous generation 
 will be raised up and preserved as a seed 11 — and after a silent pause, 
 added, " 0 ! if we can but be favoured to take some of that love 
 with us — the end crowns all — I have nothing to boast of ; I have 
 been baptized into many low places, and raised up again." He 
 appeared disposed for more expression, but his bodily powers were 
 so far gone as to render his attempts unintelligible ; yet after a 
 considerable time of silence, he uttered with much emphasis, " I 
 will lead them. 11 Soon after which, he quietly and peacefully de- 
 parted, the 24th of the Fourth Month, 1814; and we doubt not 
 hath entered into rest, enjoying that crown of righteousness which 
 the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give unto all them that love 
 his appearing. 
 
ERRATA. 
 
 Page lfiO, line 21 , for eye-slave, read eye-salve. 
 
 t , 185, „ fi, for become, read became, 
 
 t, 1''2, „ 3(>, for fj wernors, read governess, 
 
 n 346' »» 2t'» for Cfiaphtnan, read Chajniian. 
 
CONTENTS. 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 1748-1783. — His birth, parentage, education, and youthful career — 
 Early becomes useful in the Society — Travels in Maryland and 
 Virginia as companion to some ministering Friends — His wife's 
 death — Appearance in the ministry, 1781 — His early exercises in 
 this engagement — Notes, mostly recording the state of his mind — 
 Second marriage 1 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 
 1784-1787 — Travels in New England with David Sands — Visits families 
 in some parts of the State of New York — Religious service in 
 Virginia — Qualified to speak to the states of individuals in a re- 
 markable manner — Undergoes much exercise and deep provings 
 of mind 14 
 
 CHAPTER III. 
 
 1788-1702 — Travels in some parts of Pennsylvania and New Jersey — 
 Fatal accident to a young man — Religious labours in New York, 
 Long Island, Staten Island, &c. — Receives information that several 
 young persons are drowned ; previously exercised state — Visits 
 families in Shrewsbury Quarterly Meeting — Extracts from some 
 of his letters 37 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 1 7D2, 1793 — Proceeds on a visit to some of the southern states — His re- 
 ligious engagements in Virginia and North Carolina — Extracts 
 from some of his letters written from the Southern states — 
 Interesting case of convincemcnt and establishment of a meeting 
 — Religious service in South Carolina and Georgia — Addresses a 
 company of negroes whilst travelling on horseback . . .4!) 
 
X 
 
 CONTENTS. 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 1793. — Letter to John Pemberton from Charleston — Further religious 
 service in South Carolina — Writes to a little company who pro- 
 fess with Friends — North Carolina — Returns to Virginia — Ex- 
 tracts from letters written whilst there — Attends the Yearly- 
 Meeting for Virginia, and has further service in that land — 
 Returns home — Writes a brief summary of religious labours for 
 some years previous 84 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 1793, 1794. — A brief narrative of the yellow fever in Philadelphia in 
 1793 — Extracts from his journal relating thereto — Has a prospect 
 of a religious visit to Great Britain and Ireland — Obtains certi- 
 ficates and embarks for England hi 1794 — Extracts from a letter 
 written to him by Rebecca Jones, " to be opened when at sea" — 
 Undergoes deep baptism of spirit on his voyage — Lands at London 
 — Extract from one of his letters 116 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 
 1794, 1795. — Extracts from his journal whilst in London and its neigh- 
 bourhood — Interesting meeting with Samuel Spavold of Hitchin 
 — Visits the families of Friends there and at Hertford — Extracts 
 from some of his letters written during this period — Proceeds 
 to visit the families of Gracechurch Street Monthly Meeting — 
 Attends the funeral of Samuel Spavold — Goes to Staines and 
 some parts of Buckinghamshire — Visits the families of Devonshire 
 House Monthly Meeting — Letter to a friend descriptive of his 
 labours about this time — Attends the Quarterly Meeting for Lon- 
 don and Middlesex 13G 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 1795. — Receives an interesting letter from Ann Crowley — Extract of 
 one from William Savery — Religious engagements in and near 
 London — Letter from George Dillwyn — Attends the Yearly Meet- 
 ing in London — Travels in Essex, Suffolk, and Norfolk — Letter 
 from John Elliott, written from Philadelphia .... 160 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 1 795, 1 796. — Visits some of the Midland counties, Yorkshire and Lan- 
 cashire — Proceeds to Ireland — Meets with Nicholas Wain from 
 America — Religious engagements in and about Dublin — Attends 
 the Yearly Meeting there — Goes to the north of Ireland in com- 
 pany with John Abbott, and thence to the south of Ireland — 
 Extracts from some of his letters — Returns to Dublin, and attends 
 the Yearly Meeting there 175 
 
CONTENTS. 
 
 xi 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 1796. — Embarks from Dublin for Liverpool, and thence proceeds to 
 London — Attends London Yearly Meeting — Extract from a letter 
 received from Rebecca Jones — Visits meetings and families in and 
 about London — Writes to Rebecca Jones — Meets with William 
 Savery, David Sands, and George Dillwyn, in London — Religious 
 service in Essex — Letter to a friend — Visits Cambridgeshire, Bed- 
 fordshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and Bristol — Writes 
 to a friend — Travels in Berkshire — Returns to London . . 202 
 
 CHAPTER XI. 
 
 170G. — Writes to Rebecca Jones — Religious engagements in London and 
 Middlesex — Extract from one of his letters — Letters from Ann 
 Crowley and Mary Dudley — Travels in Buckinghamshire — Re- 
 turns to London 221 
 
 CHAPTER XII. 
 
 179". — Religious engagements in Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and 
 most of the northern counties — [Remarkble Meetings at 
 Sheffield] — Writes to George Dillwyn, and his own wife — Travels 
 in most of the Midland counties — Letter from David Brooks 
 of North Carolina 247 
 
 CHAPTER XIII. 
 
 1797,1798. — Religious engagements in Middlesex, Essex, and Kent — 
 Returns to London — Goes again into Kent — Writes to his wife — 
 Religious service in Sussex, Hampshire, Surrey, and London — 
 [Remarkable Meetings at Brighton] — Extract from a letter writ- 
 ten to his wife 2G7 
 
 CHAPTER XIV. 
 
 1798. — Religious service in London and its vicinity — Letter from Ann 
 
 Crowley — Writes to his son — Another letter from Ann Crowley 
 — Writes to his wife — Continues his religious engagements in 
 London and neighbourhood — Writes again to his son . . 299 
 
 CHAPTER XV. 
 
 1798, 1799. — Religious engagements in London continued — Letter from 
 Rebecca Jones — Letter from a relative — [Decease of his Daugh- 
 ter] — Writes to his family — Has some religious service among 
 some prisoners in London — Letter from David Sands — Visits 
 Kent — Writes to Rebecca Jones — Returns to London. . . 321 
 
 CHAPTER XVI. 
 
 1799. — Religious engagements in London — Goes into Essex, Suffolk, 
 
 and several of the northern counties — Visits Scotland — Letter 
 from Mary Dudley — Further religious service in Scotland and 
 the Orkney Islands — Returns to Durham 346 
 
Xll 
 
 CONTENTS. 
 
 CHAPTER XVII. 
 
 1 799. — Religious engagements in Durham and Yorkshire — Letter from 
 Ann Crowley — Travels in Lancashire — Has further service in 
 Yorkshire — Goes again iuto Lancashire — Visits meetings in some 
 of the Midland counties and Middlesex — Letter from Sarah 
 Shackleton 373 
 
 CHAPTER XVIII. 
 
 1799, 1800. — Visits the meetings of Friends in and about London — 
 Goes into Hertfordshire— Returns to London — Writes to a friend 
 — ^Decease of his Mother"] — Travels in Kent .... 395 
 
 CHAPTER XIX. 
 
 1800. — Religious service in London — Letter from Mary Dudley — Writes 
 to George Dillwyn — Has a concern to pay a religious visit to the 
 King— Proceeds to Weymouth for that purpose — Has an interview 
 with the King — Returns to London — Has a prospect of returning 
 to America — Proceeds to Liverpool — Embarks for New York — 
 His voyage — Arrives at New York and proceeds home . . 408 
 
 CHAPTER XX. 
 
 1800-1805. — Remained mostly at home during this period — Several 
 letters written to friends in England, and also letters addressed to 
 himself from friends in different parts 423 
 
 CHAPTER XXI. 
 
 1805-1811.— Occupied during the summers of 1805 and 1806 at West- 
 town boarding school — Proposes and assists in the establishment 
 of a school for poor children on the Lancasterian system — Ex- 
 tracts from letters written to Susannah Home — Accompanies S. 
 Home to the Yearly Meetings of New York and Rhode Island, 
 and visits some of the meetings composing them . . . 438 
 
 CHAPTER XXII. 
 
 1811-1814. — Visits, in company with Susannah Horne, some of the 
 families of Friends in Philadelphia — Performs a similar service, 
 in company with three other Friends, in 1812 — Accompanies S. 
 Horne to New Jersey and New York — Pays his last visit to West- 
 town boarding school — Addresses a Friend whom he believes is 
 called to the work of the ministry — Is taken ill — Some of his 
 dying expressions 459 
 
MEMOIRS 
 
 OF 
 
 THOMAS SCATTER GOOD. 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 1748-1783 HIS BIRTH, PARENTAGE, EDUCATION, AND YOUTHFUL 
 
 CAREER EARLY BECOMES USEFUL IN THE SOCIETY TRAVELS IN 
 
 MARYLAND AND VIRGINIA AS COMPANION TO SOME MINISTERING 
 
 FRIENDS HIS WIFe's DEATH APPEARANCE IN THE MINISTRY, 1781 
 
 HIS EARLY EXERCISES IN THIS ENGAGEMENT NOTES, MOSTLY 
 
 RECORDING THE STATE OF HIS MIND SECOND MARRIAGE. 
 
 Thomas Scattergood, son of Joseph and Rebecca Scattergood, 
 was born in Burlington, New Jersey, on the 23rd of First Month, 
 1748. His parents were members of the religious Society of 
 Friends, and his father was indentured to Thomas Chalkley to 
 learn the business of a mariner, with whom he performed several 
 voyages. After coming of age, he appears to have had the com- 
 mand of a vessel which sailed from Burlington ; but he soon left 
 this occupation and studied law, which he continued to practice 
 until his death, which occurred in 1 754. After this event, the 
 care of Thomas 1 education devolved upon his mother, who mani- 
 fested an earnest solicitude for his best welfare, and by tender 
 counsel and judicious management, endeavoured to shield him 
 from the snares and temptations incident to youth, and to lead 
 him in the paths of piety. His literary instruction would seem 
 not to have exceeded the common branches of an English educa- 
 tion, of which he acquired a competent knowledge. Of his boy- 
 hood, little is known, though from some hints he has left respect- 
 ing it, he seems to have been favoured, as early as when six years 
 old, with seasons of serious thoughtfulness ; but not giving heed to 
 the secret reproofs of instruction, or to the admonitions of his con- 
 cerned mother, he yielded to the corrupt inclinations of the vain 
 mind, indulging in folly and forming associations, the tendency of 
 which was to alienate him from a serious and self-denying life, liis 
 
 B 
 
2 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1772. 
 
 turn of mind rendered his company peculiarly acceptable to his asso- 
 ciates, among whom he was generally a leader in their youthful 
 diversions ; and although it does not appear that his conduct was 
 marked by any flagrant departure from the path of rectitude, yet 
 he became much estranged from the yoke and cross of Christ. 
 
 About the fourteenth year of his age, he was placed appren- 
 tice in the city of Philadelphia, with a Friend in mercantile 
 business ; but the occupation not suiting him, he remained in 
 it but a short time. He afterwards went to learn the trade of a 
 hatter, and continued at it until about nineteen years old, when 
 his master dying, he quitted the employment and learned to be 
 a tanner, in which business he continued during the remainder of 
 his life. The temptations to which he was exposed in the city, 
 and the facility there afforded for gratifying the inclinations of 
 the carnal mind, led him still further from the way of holiness ; 
 but amidst all his deviations, he appears to have been watched 
 over and cared for by that compassionate Being who is a father 
 to the fatherless, and whose gracious visitations were at times 
 powerfully extended, in order to rescue him from the pit of 
 pollution, and make him a chosen vessel in his house. 
 
 He was sometimes in the practice of spending First-day 
 afternoon with his companions in sailing on the Delaware — an 
 amusement in which he took much delight ; and on one occasion 
 when employed in this manner, his mind became so deeply im- 
 pressed with the sinfulness of thus spending the day, that he 
 induced his comrades to set him ashore before they reached the 
 place of their destination, — nor did he ever afterwards spend that 
 day in a similar manner. He was often heard to speak of this 
 incident, as a remarkable instance of the secret pleadings of the 
 divine Witness in the breasts of even the young, and there is 
 reason to believe that soon afterwards, he was made willing to 
 bow to the tendering visitations of divine love and mercy to his 
 soul, and taking up his daily cross, to follow Jesus in the 
 regeneration. 
 
 It would be interesting and instructive to trace his progress 
 in a religious life, through its early stages, and to mark the 
 exercises and baptisms by which he was gradually prepared for 
 an instrument of remarkable usefulness in the church of Christ ; 
 but he has left no record of this important period of his life, nor 
 are there materials to make up even an outline of it. From some 
 remarks which he made at different times, there is ground to 
 conclude, that his inward conflicts and provings were many, and 
 
1779.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 3 
 
 that he was then no stranger to that deep and weighty exercise 
 of spirit, which so remarkably characterized the later periods of 
 his life. 
 
 It appears from the records of the Monthly Meeting of which 
 he was then a member, that soon after attaining to manhood, he 
 was brought into usefulness in the concerns of the church, and 
 employed in some important services for the Society. 
 
 In the Tenth Month, 1772, he was married to Elizabeth, the 
 daughter of David Bacon, who proved a helpmeet to him ; but 
 they were separated by death in about eight years, which proved 
 a close trial. One son, Joseph Scattergood, was the only child 
 who survived her. 
 
 During the commotions attendant on the war of the revolution, 
 the Society of Friends in Philadelphia were subjected to much 
 suffering and many trials, owing to their conscientious objection 
 to everything of a warlike nature, which exposed them to much 
 jealousy and suspicion, and often rendered them the subjects of 
 unrighteous and oppressive exactions. These difficulties, growing 
 out of various causes, brought Friends very near to each other in 
 spirit, broke down the barriers of prejudice, and produced that 
 humility and tenderness of spirit, in which they could feelingly 
 sympathize with one another, and which induced a cheerful readi- 
 ness to contribute of their substance for the help of those more 
 destitute and stripped than themselves. Committees were appointed 
 in the Monthly Meetings to inquire into the situation of their 
 members, and afford the requisite relief wherever it was needed. 
 In this work of love and mercy, Thomas Scattergood was a 
 diligent labourer, and he was no less zealous in encouraging his 
 fellow professors to maintain faithfully their testimony to the 
 peaceable reign of the Messiah, and in endeavouring to convince 
 others of the inconsistency of all wars and fightings with the benign 
 nature of the gospel, which ever breathes peace on earth and 
 good will to men. 
 
 In the Tenth Month, 1778, with the consent of his Monthly 
 Meeting, he accompanied a ministering Friend to some meetings 
 in Maryland and Virginia ; in which service he was engaged 
 about six weeks. 
 
 With the approbation of his friends, and to use his own words, 
 " in a degree of tenderness of heart, 11 he set out with Samuel 
 Emlen and George Dillwyn to attend the Quarterly Meeting of 
 Fairfax, in Virginia, in the Twelfth Month, 1779. The account 
 of this journey is the first which he appears to have kept, but as 
 
4 
 
 MEMOTRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1780. 
 
 it is little more than a notice of the different stages where they 
 stopped, it seems unnecessary to transcribe it here. Throughout 
 the visit he seems to have been under close exercise respecting 
 his own condition, which induced him often to seek solitary places 
 where he might commune with his own heart, and pour out his 
 prayers and tears before the Lord. In a memorandum made the 
 18th of Twelfth Month, he says, "Attended the committee on 
 Reformation,* in the afternoon. Here I was bowed under a 
 sense of my past disobedience and want of entire resignation to 
 the Divine will." 
 
 u 2\st. — Attended the youths' meeting. My beloved friends 
 were favoured in this and the preceding meeting ; but as for me, I 
 was reduced very low ; yet am a little comforted under the tender- 
 ing power of truth — our esteemed friend W. M., speaking a little 
 to my condition in a sitting we had at Abel Janney's. 
 
 " First Month 9^,1780. — Being First-day, attended Fairfax 
 meeting under much distress of mind, and so continued until 
 evening, when a little ease was graciously granted me, for which 
 I am thankful. On taking the Bible and reading our dear Lord's 
 Sermon on the Mount, a serious thought took hold of my mind, 
 respecting doing to others as I would be done unto. The remem- 
 brance of several men, to whom I paid money in days back, came 
 before me, with desires that I might fulfil the law of Christ, in 
 doing unto all men as I should desire them to do to me." 
 
 This uneasiness appears to have arisen from his having used 
 the " Continental money," in the payment of some of his debts ; 
 and although it was a full settlement and discharge according to 
 law, yet he was fearful that he should not be acting in accordance 
 with the gospel rule of strict justice, unless he made them some 
 compensation for the loss they probably sustained by its great 
 depreciation. He therefore records his desire that " for the sake 
 of peace of mind," a certain sum might be paid to individuals 
 whom he names, in order to make up the deficiency. 
 
 Where unreserved obedience is yielded to the manifestations of 
 the light of Christ Jesus in the soul, it brings under a deep and 
 
 * The sufferings of Friends during the Revolution, not only tended to increase their 
 love for each other, tout also led into close self-examination, in order to ascertain wherein 
 they had departed from the law and the testimony, and, in their conduct, pursuits, or 
 manner of living, lowered the standard of purity which the gospel and our high pro- 
 fession enjoin. In order more effectually to carry on this good work, committees were 
 appointed in many of the Quarterly Meetings to promote a reformation among Friends, 
 and endeavour to encourage one another to greater faithfulness in the support of the 
 precious testimonies of Truth. It is probably to a committee of this description, that 
 Thomas Scattergood here alludes. 
 
1781.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SrATTEUGOOD. 
 
 5 
 
 humbling sense of past transgressions ; begets a godlysorrow for sin, 
 bringing into view those long since committed, and perhaps for- 
 gotten; under the pressure of which, the awakened mind is bowed in 
 great humiliation and made willing not only to confess its wrong- 
 doing, but as far as may be in its power, to make restitution also. 
 An instance of the tenderness of conscience and nice sense of justice 
 which is thus produced in the disciple of Christ, is related of Thomas 
 Scattergood. When a school-boy at Burlington, he had occa- 
 sionally taken some apples from an orchard which lay on the side 
 of the road leading to the school-house ; and when in after-life he 
 came to see the exceeding sinfulness of sin, this circumstance 
 became a burden to his tender conscience. He therefore requested 
 a friend to endeavour to ascertain who was the owner of the 
 orchard at the time he took the apples, remarking, that he should 
 feel most easy to remunerate him for the fruit he had taken with- 
 out permission. 
 
 On the 25th of First Month, 1780, he returned from the visit 
 to Fairfax quarter, and soon after was appointed an overseer of the 
 Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadelphia, for the Northern 
 district. In the Tenth Month, his affectionate and beloved wife 
 was removed by death, a loss which he deeply felt, she being a 
 woman of a tender and sympathizing spirit, well qualified to feel 
 with him under his various exercises and trials. In the following 
 year, he joined David Brooks and Seth Coffin, of North Carolina, 
 in a religious visit to some parts of Pennsylvania, New York, and 
 New England, and while engaged in this service, he first appeared 
 in the ministry. The following extract of a letter written to 
 Henry Drinker, a beloved and honoured Friend and elder of 
 Philadelphia, conveys in his own language, his exercises on the 
 occasion. It is dated at Moses Brown's, Providence, Ehode 
 Island, Fourth Month 2nd, 1781. After giving some account of 
 the meetings they had been at, he says : — 
 
 " And now dear friend, seeing thou hast used brotherly freedom 
 with me, I feel something of the same, to inform thee of my state of 
 mind. I have been long in a wilderness travel, or rather partly in 
 Egypt and partly in the wilderness, if I may so term it ; and a 
 persuasion for years past has possessed my mind, that a dispensa- 
 tion of the gospel would be committed to my charge, but how, 
 when, or where, was hidden from me. Sometimes I expected the 
 time was nearly come, having had my mind impressed with words 
 in meeting, but not with sufficient clearness ; and at other times, 
 through unfaithfulness and not being enough willing to abide the 
 
6 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1781. 
 
 fire, I have almost lost si<iht of it. In some of these seasons I 
 believe I could have borne a separation from having anything to do 
 in Society affairs, being so sensible of my wretched and unworthy 
 condition ; and when 1 had thought of accompanying these Friends 
 a little on their journey, my mind was turned toward the baptized 
 condition I was in, when with Samuel Emlen in Virginia ; which 
 was a time of great distress, and I was fearful of being burthen- 
 some if I went with them. In this state of mind I left you and 
 got pretty cheerful by the time we reached North Wales, in which 
 meeting a few words came up in my mind by way of encourage- 
 ment to some there, which I have since thought I might have 
 dropped peacefully to myself. In the meeting for business I said 
 something in some zeal ; which I fear wanted to be tempered with 
 more charity. I had thought of endeavouring to see Friends at 
 Hardwich, some time before I left home, and it being a favourable 
 time, I proceeded to our friend Robert Kirkbride's. In the evening, 
 my beloved friend David Brooks was uncommonly free in conver- 
 sation with me, in an encouraging way ; opening his experience to 
 me, though I did not inform him of my exercise ; and next day 
 on our way to Plumstead meeting, our ancient Friend, J. Forman, 
 rode up alongside of me, and told me whatever my hands found to 
 do, to do it with all my might, and not to fear the presence of any 
 who were there. My mind was exercised again in this meeting, 
 with a few words to deliver : I was burthened with a profession 
 that wanted the possession of godliness, and the different states of 
 the publican and pharisee opening in my view to deliver ; I sat 
 some time, fearing I was under a delusion. I endeavoured to 
 settle down into stillness, and as I was favoured to get there, I 
 apprehended I heard this language, ' Be faithful; there shall be 
 peace in it.' So I gave up, and stammered out what had im- 
 pressed my mind ; but when I got down on my seat, confusion 
 surrounded me ; but by settling down to my gift, the peace that 
 was promised I experienced ; and being afterwards told by my 
 dear companions that it was well, I rested easy. Thus I first 
 opened my mouth at a place, where some years ago, I behaved in 
 such a manner as was a reproach ; it being at the marriage of a 
 near friend. We attended Kingwood meeting, at which place I 
 was silent. Next day set off for Hardwich, proposing to stop to 
 see a few scattered Friends that live about half way between the 
 two places. We had a lonesome ride this morning, wherein little 
 conversation passed ; and my mind was exercised to know my 
 way, whether to return home to my family after being at Hard- 
 
1781.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 7 
 
 wich, join as a companion to our friend J. Forman, if lie inclined 
 to visit any more meetings in the Jerseys, or proceed on with 
 David and Seth to Nantucket ; and as I was measurably favoured 
 with resignation of mind, I believed it was best for me to join the 
 two last-mentioned Friends in their visit. We stopped at Aaron 
 Watson's, and I had not sat long in the house before David came 
 and sat down by me ; and on telling him I had thought of keeping 
 on with him to Nantucket, he freely told me he could think of 
 little else in our lonesome ride, but my going, and believed truth 
 would make way for itself. My mind was bowed in awfulness, 
 and as I apprehended I felt something of the spirit of prayer and 
 supplication, I endeavoured to keep under it until we sat down to eat, 
 at which time I ventured to prostrate myself before Him who had 
 been graciously pleased to open a spring of consolation in a desert 
 land ; and dear David told me afterwards, it had a tendency to 
 open the same spring in him, as he began after I concluded ; and 
 we had a solemn time together in this wilderness place, where we 
 were altogether strangers except our guide. This season of divine 
 favour, dear Henry, has been a time for me to look back at since, 
 when I have been ready to question all. Thus I have simply laid 
 my state before thee, as one who is authorized by his station to 
 care for me ; and being absent, I apprehend I can do it more 
 freely than if I were present.' 1 
 
 In the course of the journey, which occupied several months, 
 he passed through much exercise of spirit and was often brought 
 very low, yet it proved a satisfactory and instructive season ; and 
 in alluding to it several years after, he says : — " It was the Lord's 
 doings I believe, to send me with this experienced brother, [D. 
 Brooks,] and marvellous was his supporting hand throughout the 
 journey ; — I hope never to be forgotten by me, for he brought my 
 wading soul out of great tribulation, and to the praise of his holy 
 name be it uttered, he opened the way for me, not only in the 
 minds of elders and brethren at home, but also abroad." 
 
 After returning home, he continued to appear at times in the 
 ministry, which was satisfactory to his friends, who felt unity and 
 sympathy with him in this weighty work. The following memo- 
 randums show that he endured many fiery baptisms and close 
 conflicts of mind, which tended to deepen him in the root of divine 
 life, and prepare him for more extensive usefulness in the solemn 
 service whereunto he was called. Being brought into a state of 
 humble dependence upon the openings and leadings of the Holy 
 
8 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1782. 
 
 Spirit, and waiting upon Christ Jesus, the Minister of ministers, 
 lie was made of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord, and 
 careful to wait for the fresh extending of heavenly help before he 
 engaged in testimony ; and thus keeping, in simplicity and single- 
 ness of heart, to the gift bestowed upon him, he was often enabled, 
 as a good steward of the manifold grace of God, to bring forth out 
 of the treasury things new and old, to the edification and comfort 
 of his hearers. He was acknowledged by his Monthly Meeting 
 as a minister, in the First Month, 1783. Under date of Twelfth 
 Month 17th, 1782, he writes:— 
 
 " I feel like a poor creature — after a time of favour, stripping 
 and trial come — so I have experienced. It has of late been a time 
 comparable to a Sabbath day. 
 
 " 19th. — 0 ! how near is my lurking enemy to draw into a love 
 to the creature. I was favoured to-day with a few expressions to 
 drop for the encouragement of such as myself, who are much in 
 debt and have naught to pay with. 
 
 " 21st. — On looking back at this past week, I find the hand of 
 mercy has been near, but truly I have nothing to boast of. It is 
 admirable to me, that such an one as I should be so bold as to 
 venture to instruct others, while I get along so heavily myself. 
 Lord animate me to press forward. 
 
 " 30th. — A day of sorrow ; yet this evening I feel a broken 
 heart and am baptized into tears. For such an one as I, this is a 
 great favour, worthy of recording. 0 Lord, my God ! thou hast 
 not forsaken me, though I have strayed far from thee. Eenew 
 thy promises as in former years. I am unworthy to ask thy bless- 
 ing, yet I desire to wait for it. 
 
 " First Month 5th, 1783. — Some brokenness and contrition 
 experienced to-day, and a desire raised to be more circumspect 
 this week, if life is spared. 
 
 " ]0th. — 0 ! what pain a small deviation from the strict law 
 causes to a quickened, feeling mind. Lord help me to know and 
 keep thy law more and more. 
 
 " 11th. — How apt is one deviation, though it may seem as only 
 from a tittle of the law, to beget another. When an old beloved 
 lust, in some degree mortified, puts up its head, what is then to be 
 done but to know it bruised. 0 ! when shall I know my beloved 
 lusts so put down, as not to be able to rise. Lord enable me to 
 bear the rod and suffer it to do its office, that peace may again 
 spring up through it. 
 
178.3.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SC A.TTEKGOOD. 
 
 9 
 
 " \2th. — A day of fasting and prayer, and I hope of true mor- 
 tification. I desire to see the death of some potent enemies, 
 though it may be perfected by famine. 
 
 " 17th. — What wouldest thou have me to do Lord ? When wilt 
 thou be graciously pleased to favour with the lifting up of the 
 light of thy heavenly countenance, and destroy my enemies ? Be 
 pleased to preserve me through the close exercises of my soul ; 
 manifest thy will clearly to thy servant, and uphold me in it ; 
 enable me to bear, and spare not ; 0 Lord ! that 1 may experience 
 thy goodness as in the land of the living. 
 
 " 21st. — A little opened to-day at meeting, where I had some- 
 thing to deliver ; and also in a transient visit to a family. 1 
 ventured to prostrate myself before God, and beg for protection 
 and preservation. How thankfully doth the panting soul receive 
 a little ease, refreshment and encouragement. 
 
 " 22nd. — A secret trust and hope lives in my heart : how was 
 David's life hunted in the wilderness, on the mountain, and 
 amongst the rocks ; yet he was delivered. 0, my soul, hope thou 
 and trust in the same merciful deliverer ! 
 
 " 2'ird. — Favoured to encourage the mournful travellers. — 
 Admirable that such an one as I should be thus led in public. 
 
 " 26th. — A day of more ease under the yoke, and I feel desires 
 kept alive and hope quickened, to press on, endeavouring to eye 
 my Captain and Preserver. 
 
 " 21th. — It is pleasant to have a way cast up, and to be found 
 walking therein. To-day I have, in some degree, witnessed that 
 saying fulfilled, ' the effect of righteousness is peace.' 
 
 " Second Month 5th and 6th. — Not much to note, only some 
 ease of spirit to what I have of late experienced. O ! that I may 
 be kept attentive to Wisdom's voice, prepared at all times to say 
 here am I. 
 
 " I Oth. — Introduced to the meeting of ministers and elders. 
 Felt poor; little more about me than a desire to be what the 
 Lord would have me to be ; however, am thankful that I was 
 there. O ! that I may be enabled more and more clearly to know 
 and understand Wisdom's voice, and to follow it even again and 
 again into suffering. 
 
 "\]th. — What need of mercy and remission I feel this morn- 
 ing. I hope that in due time my soul's desire will be answered, 
 as Jabez's was. 0! that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and en- 
 large my coast and keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me. 
 
 " \Zth. — Attended meeting, and near the close had something to 
 
10 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1783. 
 
 say. How am I tried with presentations of false visions, and at 
 times narrow is my escape. 0 ! that my gracious Master may 
 preserve me from putting forth a hand to steal, in the poverty 
 that is necessary for me. 
 
 " I4<th. — Felt my enemy gaining upon me, by lulling into ease. 
 Thanks be to the Lord, I feel more animated, and hope to resist 
 him. This is an old and sore evil ; — slothful in business, and 
 not enougli fervent in spirit serving God. 0 ! for more animation 
 in time to come, and forgiveness of past defects. 
 
 " 28th. — Spent this day alone in some quietness in my own 
 habitation, and find occasion of humbling. O Lord ! continue 
 to enlighten and settle me ; thou knowest my buffetings and 
 trials. 
 
 " Third Month 5th. — Spent some time with Sarah Harrison 
 with unusual openness, in comparing our getting along in a reli- 
 gious sense. 
 
 " \ 0th. — I am, indeed, a buffetted and sifted servant. 0 Lord ! 
 forgive me the sins of my youth. I have often and again slidden 
 into folly, and what have I to lean upon but thy arm of mercy. 
 Be graciously pleased to open a way where there appears none ; 
 preserve me from dishonouring thee ! Continue to send a little 
 help, and enlighten my darkness. O, my feebleness ! I hardly 
 durst say I will trust in God, though I desire to do so. 
 
 " Wth. — Awoke this morning with a calm and easy mind, 
 when this encouraging language revived ; ' I am the Lord thy 
 God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way 
 that thou shouldest go.'' 
 
 " ]6th. — A quiet silent day; wherein an animating desire was 
 felt to be more vigilant and more industrious. Soul, watch thou 
 that thy resolution may be kept this ensuing week, if life is 
 spared. 
 
 " 20th. — Thankful for favours received — found bodily exercise 
 in labour profitable. He that will be Jesus' disciple must deny 
 himself, take up his cross and follow him. What a favour to be 
 instructed what this means, 'Sell that thou hast what a lesson to 
 learn. I hope for more victory through faith, though I seem to 
 make but a slow progress. 
 
 " 2ith. — Felt my lurking subtle enemy very near, endeavouring 
 to trip up my heels. 0 ! the mercy and kindness of my blessed 
 Helper, in assisting me to resist him, so that I do not get so 
 defiled and overpowered with weakness, as has been my condition 
 in days past. May I still be enabled to maintain the warfare, 
 
1783.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERO00D. 
 
 1] 
 
 through him who has indeed showed me kindness — thanks he 
 rendered to his name. 
 
 " Fourth Month 9th. — 0 ! wretched man that I am, who shall 
 deliver me from this body of death and sorrow of heart ? Is there 
 not virtue in him who is called the Prince of Peace, to dispense 
 peace to such a poor cast down one I 0 yes ! there is, but I cannot 
 command it. Lord preserve me from taking flight in this winter 
 season. Preserve me in the faith, and be pleased to increase it ; 
 make me worthy to receive redemption and mercy by thy wash- 
 ing, preparing hand : be pleased to blot out of thy remembrance 
 the sins of my youth ; my frequent backslidings and my neglect 
 of thy law. O Lord, I am miserable without thee ! look down 
 upon me. I dare not seek pleasure away from thee, — I believe 
 thou canst change my misery into comfort in a moment, if thou 
 please. I hope in thy tender mercy, and though 1 am thus cast 
 down, I will endeavour to trust in thee. 
 
 " 13th. — I feel an humble hope if the thread of my life is cut, 
 there is mercy reserved for me. 0 ! may I be kept until the end, 
 without despairing. 
 
 " 14th. — Through mercy I feel my way more clearly cast up. 
 I have not walked enough with full dedication of heart, — and have 
 been too uneasy under the fiery law that must be submitted to, 
 for removing all my corruptions. O Lord ! that thou wouldest 
 animate, enlighten and keep me under it, until its office is 
 finished. 
 
 " 16th. — Hope I have felt something of the same healing virtue 
 that went forth to him, whose withered hand was healed upon 
 stretching it out at the divine command. Under the cross springs 
 the crown of peace ; but nothing is due to the creature : neither is 
 it of him that willeth, nor of him who runneth, — although there 
 is much required for the poor creature to do. 
 
 " 20th. — Concerned three times in public testimony : at the 
 lower meeting in the morning in a few words in testimony ; after 
 which, dear Nicholas Wain, I thought, had a good time, and was 
 favoured to lift me up a little therein. I was engaged afterward 
 in supplication, to my comfort. Attended Market-street meeting 
 in the afternoon, where I was exercised in a close testimony to a 
 libertine spirit : believe the favoured meeting in the morning was 
 some support to me in this. Nicholas Wain had a precious time 
 in the evening meeting, after which I was concerned to endeavour 
 to clinch the nail. Nothing due to man. 
 
 " 21st. — With a reverent thankful mind, I may say it is a holy 
 
12 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [17S3. 
 
 day, created anew by Him that hath the times and seasons in his 
 own power, and wherein I am eased from that weight of oppression 
 and sorrow which I have been under. The Lord only be praised, 
 and my poor soul be made [willing to return to labour again, 
 when this graciously afforded sabbath is past. 
 
 " Fifth Month \st. — 0! Thou that art all wisdom, strength 
 and power, enable me so to walk, as to experience an advance- 
 ment to thy praise. What a favour to have the eye of the 
 soul anointed to behold the dear Son of God as our advocate in 
 affliction. 
 
 " 1 2th. — I think my poor soul has been this day, as with Joseph 
 in the prison house. In the Lord's season he was delivered, and 
 set above his enemies. Trust in the Lord thy God, 0 my soul ! 
 though he may see meet to hide his comforts from thee, — hope in 
 his rich mercy still." 
 
 On the loth of Fifth Month, 17S3, he was married to Sarah 
 Hoskins, daughter of John Hoskins, of Burlington, New Jersey, 
 respecting whudi event, he writes : — " A day of covenant in the 
 Lord's fear with my dear and virtuous friend. I was a little 
 strengthened by the fresh revival of these expressions in my 
 mind; — 'Be content with such things as you have r" 1 and it was 
 satisfactory to hear dear George Dillwyn make use of the same for 
 our encouragement. G. B. opened the public service with these 
 expressions ; ' Peace is sown for the righteous, and joy and glad- 
 ness for the upright in heart j 1 and afterwards George Dillwyn 
 told us the same expressions soon struck his mind, and out of the 
 mouth of two or three witnesses every word was to be established. 
 
 " 20th. — Went to preparative meeting in an humble waiting 
 frame, and therein my Master was graciously pleased to hear my 
 petition, and cast up a way to walk in. May 1 ever be preserved 
 from stepping out of it. 
 
 " Sixth Month 1st. — A day of some enlargement; spoke in 
 testimony at our own meeting in the morning, and also a few 
 words in the early part of the evening meeting, which seemed as 
 a text for dear iNicholas Wain to enlarge much upon; who it is 
 probable, may not soon have the like opportunity amongst us in 
 that meeting.* It was encouraging, thus as it were, to have a 
 mantle thrown over me by an experienced elder brother. 
 
 " 3rd. — A parting meeting with Nicholas Wain. — A low time 
 with me in the fore part, but dropped a few tears under that dear 
 
 * He was soon to embark for England, on a religious visit to the churches in Great 
 Britain and Ireland. 
 
1783.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 13 
 
 friend's instructive testimony in the latter part of it ; and after- 
 ward took my leave of him. 
 
 "1(M. — Several changes to-day, yet trust I have not given 
 place to the subtle serpent, with whom my poor tried soul has 
 such a controversy. O ! that the protecting arm may still be near. 
 
 " 19th. — A dull heavy meeting to-day: it is a day of outward 
 ease again ; and there is a great stir in this populous city in 
 trading and business ; but where are the poor baptized mournful 
 travellers to be found ? — I believe there is a remnant preserved. 
 
 " 22nd. — Apprehended it my duty to go to the middle meeting. 
 It was exercising to me to pass by my own, and be engaged in 
 such mortifying labour ; but hope I complied with a good degree 
 of cheerfulness. 0 ! that I might be enabled to feel more content 
 in my allotment, seeing I dare not climb up another way. I could 
 rather desire my natural life might go for a sacrifice, than live to 
 dishonour my God, after appearing in so high a station. Lord ! 
 preserve me — my desire is toward thee ; enable me to love and 
 cleave to thee, that in due time I may come to experience thy 
 blessing. 
 
 " Seventh Month 2nd. — 0 my soul ! endeavour to persevere in 
 patience under thy burthen. If the Lord delight in thee, he can 
 bring thee unto what thou pants after. If faith and patience be 
 graciously afforded, then let the fire burn." 
 
14 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1784. 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 
 1784-1787 TRAVELS IN NEW ENGLAND WITH DAVID SANDS VISITS 
 
 FAMILIES IN SOME PARTS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK RELIGIOUS 
 
 SERVICE IN VIRGINIA QUALIFIED TO SPEAK TO THE STATES OF 
 
 INDIVIDUALS IN A REMARKABLE MANNER — UNDERGOES MUCH EXER- 
 CISE AND DEEP PROVINGS OF MIND. 
 
 In the year 1784, with the concurrence of his Monthly Meet- 
 ing, he paid a visit to the meetings composing the Yearly Meeting 
 of New England. He attended the Yearly Meeting at Newport, 
 Rhode Island, on his way ; and learning that David Sands had 
 obtained a certificate to visit the meetings in New England, he 
 seemed to be impressed with a belief that it would be right for 
 them to travel together. Under date of Sixth Month 3rd, he 
 writes to his wife : — 
 
 " 0 ! may my dear Master, who has seen meet to suffer near trials 
 to beset me in days past, and has measurably preserved me as I 
 clave to him, still be with me and provide for me, if it is his will 
 that I should be longer from thee. I desire, in resignation and 
 submission, to recommend thee, with my own soul, to his gracious 
 care and protection. - " 
 
 After the Yearly Meeting closed, it was some time before he 
 could see which way it would be right for him to move ; as the 
 following extract of a letter, dated Sixth Month 16th, indicates. 
 
 " I humbly trust my being here has been in the will of the 
 Lord ; having been measurably favoured with enlargement, both 
 in meetings and in some families, to my own comfort and the 
 satisfaction of my friends ; although I came poor amongst them, 
 and now the meeting is over, have to return to the same safe spot 
 again. I told Friends of the select meeting, near the conclusion, 
 that they might find by the care in wording my certificate, how 
 thoughtful my friends at home were about my right moving 
 amongst them. That I felt like one who had left his father's 
 house, and Friends of this meeting seemed like my friends at 
 home, on whom I desired to cast myself ; not seeing it safe to 
 return home, and further service amongst them did not clearly 
 
1784.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEUGOOD. 
 
 15 
 
 open. I find that thus simply casting my burden amongst them, 
 lias gained me some near sympathizers." 
 
 After holding a conference with several Friends, the prospect 
 of joining David Sands in visiting the meetings in the eastern 
 part of the Yearly Meeting, seemed to open with the most clear- 
 ness ; and David Sands having intimated to him that his company 
 would be truly acceptable, they set off together. 
 
 In a letter to his wife, dated at Boston, Seventh Month 20th, 
 1784, he thus speaks of their progress : — 
 
 " We have been kindly received by our friends in this place, 
 whose families we have visited, and got through yesterday, and in 
 the evening went to see a family about six miles out of town, 
 where a few days past we had a meeting, amongst a people that I do 
 not learn ever had the like appointed amongst them before. I have 
 been pretty much exercised in my mind in this town. But thanks 
 be to my kind Master, I have had renewedly to rejoice this day, 
 in that he hath enabled me to labour in my little services in this 
 place, to a degree of comfort and satisfaction, so that my mind is 
 measurably set at liberty and my health renewed. We propose 
 leaving this place in the morning to go on east, having had divers 
 meetings, wherein considerable numbers of the gay inhabitants 
 have given their company and conducted very commendably ; and 
 indeed I may say, we have been treated very respectfully by them. 
 The services of my dear brother, David Sands, have been extensive, 
 and I believe well accepted. I trust we increase in uniting love, 
 and I have humblingly to hope at seasons, I shall be enabled to 
 get through my services in these parts, and return in peace. My 
 heart is at seasons in company with thee, in such a manner as to 
 revive my hope, that Divine Goodness is not wanting to support 
 thee ; and thou hast my prayers for thee, though my bodily pre- 
 sence is wanting. Lift up thy head in hope, and still stretch 
 heavenward in the desire of thy mind, believing that it is easy 
 with the Lord to turn our wilderness into a fruitful field, after 
 he hath sufficiently tried us. I have cause to speak well of his 
 excellent name, who is my sufficiency in all my exercises ; and 
 no doubt it will be a comfort to thee to know that I have been so 
 far helped, as not knowingly to omit any little service I have 
 apprehended myself called to perform. We have met with divers 
 friendly people here, with whom we have had some baptizing sea- 
 sons ; and I find as much engagement as ever to see the people in 
 the back parts of New England." 
 
 On the 21st, they set off in accordance with their prospect, to 
 
16 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. [1784. 
 
 visit the eastern settlements of Maine ; in the performance of 
 which service, it being an unsettled and wilderness country, they 
 found considerable difficulty ; having to swim their horses over 
 rivers, and to lodge in cabins and other poorly sheltered places ; 
 notwithstanding which, they were favoured with health and 
 strength, and reached Vassalborough on the 18th of the Eighth 
 Month, where the following memorandum was made. 
 
 " Almost, or may be quite, at the far end of our journey in a 
 wilderness land, where my mind is pleasantly turned home this 
 First-day morning, to take a view of my dear family, feeling my 
 heart a little comforted and strengthened, after many trying 
 seasons. 0 ! may our dear Master be our comfort and strength ; 
 and if it be his will, bring us together again, and more and more 
 unite us in best love." 
 
 In a letter, dated at Boston, Ninth Month 6th, 1784, he thus 
 describes this visit : after speaking of a meeting held at Falmouth, 
 in which he had an open encouraging opportunity, he says : — 
 
 " It was like a time of healing, after many proving seasons 
 since I left this place before. The close exercise I was under, I 
 expect thou might easily discover from the contents of my letter, 
 written from here before going eastward ; wherein I mentioned that 
 I believed it was required of me to stand resigned to labour in these 
 parts until the Quarterly Meeting. I gave up with a good degree 
 of cheerfulness to accompany my dear companion, David Sands, and 
 have been pretty nearly through that wilderness country. I have 
 passed through close trials of faith and love, in this journey ; and 
 have also found my gracious Master to be near in them, who hath 
 from time to time, as I was willing to be emptier!, caused the hea- 
 venly oil to fill the empty vessel, both to discharge the debt, and 
 afford some to live on myself. Blessed be his name for his mercy and 
 care over me, one of the least and most unworthy of his servants. 
 A Monthly Meeting coming on, I found my mind drawn to attend 
 it, as also the preparative meeting, held about twenty-five miles 
 nearer. We left Vassalborough, accompanied by divers Friends who 
 intended for those meetings, and rode to a new settlement called 
 Winthrop, where we were taken in and kindly entertained by a 
 friendly man; had a sitting with him and family next morning, when 
 my mind was strongly engaged to be at their meeting of business ; 
 and David found a full stop in his mind, and told us, that with 
 the friendly man's consent, he must stay and have a meeting at 
 his house, but was very free for me to go forward. I did not see, 
 when I parted with him, but that I should return and join him 
 
1785.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 17 
 
 again after the Monthly Meeting ; though I understood by one of 
 the Friends who came with me, that he said he did not expect to 
 meet me again. We parted in that near love and affection in 
 which we were favoured to travel together ; one of the Friends 
 staying to accompany him, and two others came on with me." 
 
 He thus describes his subsequent engagement : 
 
 " A dear friend who came from Kennebec with me, had it on 
 his mind to bear me company, and I believe was at that time 
 dipped into my exercise, and has given up, with Friends' appro- 
 bation, to accompany me, though not without some cost, and 
 proves a valuable feeling yoke-mate. I have ventured in my 
 journeying this way, to appoint meetings where David and I have 
 not been ; and hope I was favoured to get through to a good 
 degree of satisfaction, both to Friends and myself ; it was a new 
 scene, and I have not been without trials in it. I reached this 
 town last Seventh-day afternoon, and was with much affection 
 received by my kind friends, John and Rebecca Dean, who seem 
 desirous I should stay until their Monthly Meeting at Lynn 
 comes on, and rest myself. I found a considerable draught to 
 this town, and sat with Friends yesterday in two meetings. There 
 seems to be considerable openness and love amongst them, and 
 also other societies, that is very encouraging and comforting." 
 
 The remaining memorandums of this visit are principally an 
 account of the different families with whom they put up. On the 
 28th of the Tenth Month, 1 784, he arrived at his own residence, 
 as he says, " in peace." 
 
 In the Fifth Month, 1785, he obtained the concurrence of his 
 Monthly Meeting to pay a religious visit to the Yearly Meeting 
 of Friends on Long Island, and the meetings composing the 
 Quarterly Meetings of Oblong and Nine Partners. After attend- 
 ing the Yearly Meeting, he went to New York with a Friend who 
 had offered to accompany him to some of the meetings, but the 
 way seemed to close as to proceeding further. In a letter to his 
 wife, dated Sixth Month 10th, he thus describes his feelings : — 
 
 " My prospect was to go towards Oblong and Nine Partners, 
 and so continued until Second-day afternoon. We sat down with 
 Henry Haddock, and some other Friends who came in ; and here 
 I was plunged into such a condition as I have not often expe- 
 rienced. The importance of the undertaking spread with solemn 
 weight over my mind, joined with a sense of weakness and inca- 
 pacity without the interposition of divine help ; under which I 
 was much broken into tears, in humble resignation to follow my 
 
18 
 
 MEMOIHS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1785. 
 
 gracious Master, who had been pleased to lead thus far, measurably 
 in his counsel and will. I endeavoured, as well as I could, to 
 inform my friends how it was with me, and we concluded 
 it would be safest to wait until morning. Retiring to my room, 
 I got vent, for indeed my cup was made to overflow much in the 
 same manner as when I left you, only with this difference; 
 that then I moved in the clearness and in sweet peace ; now there 
 seemed a cloud in the way of going forward. Next morning my 
 mind was settled into sweet quiet, with a release for the present 
 from proceeding ; and concluded to let my beloved companion 
 leave me and move homeward. Since he has left, 1 remain easy 
 to set my face homeward, with a heart resigned to return and 
 finish the visit when my heavenly Master may be pleased clearly 
 to open the way.'" 
 
 On the 11th, he set off for home, and having two meetings by 
 the way, arrived there on the 13th. 
 
 On the 29th of the Seventh Month, he again obtained the cer- 
 tificate of his Monthly Meeting to perform this visit, and set off 
 in company with his brother-in-law, " feeling,'" as he remarks, 
 " very poor, with many discouragements, but endeavouring to 
 wear the sackcloth underneath." 
 
 On the 1st of the Eighth Month, they arrived at New York, 
 where he parted with his brother-in-law, and proceeded to James 
 Mott's, at Mamaroneck. On the 4th and 5th, he attended the 
 Quarterly Meeting of Purchase ; " at the conclusion of which," 
 he says, " I was free that mention might be made of my willing- 
 ness to sit with Friends in several meetings. 
 
 " On the 9th, to the meeting appointed at Mamaroneck. 
 Went poor and empty, and in the fore part was humbled under a 
 sense of my unworthiness ; and whilst pondering thereon, a lan- 
 guage like this arose with a degree of strength to begin my tes- 
 timony with. ' It is written, man shall not live by bread alone, 
 but by every word of God;' and with it I arose with tears; and 
 hope the meeting was to some profit. 
 
 14 10th. — My friend James Mott, having got himself in readi- 
 ness to accompany me, we set out together this morning to the 
 appointed meeting at Purchase, which I hope was to satisfaction. 
 Lodged at Jacob Underbill's, who told us he remembered when 
 there were no Friends further north than this neighbourhood. 
 My companion also informed me, that in looking over the 
 Monthly Meeting minutes of the year 1727, he finds there was 
 but one Monthly Meeting and three Particular Meetings on the 
 
1785.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 19 
 
 main ; and now there are seven Monthly Meetings, two Quarterly, 
 and twenty-five Particular Meetings on the main ; which shows 
 the great increase of Friends in this government. 
 
 " 11th. — To the Monthly Meeting at Shappaqua, which was 
 satisfactory. Went home with John Griffin, of Amawalk ; in 
 going to whose house, a distance of six miles, we had a moun- 
 tainous road to travel, and near it the river Croton to ford after 
 night ; through all which I felt pleasant. 
 
 " lUh. — Went to the meeting called the Valley, and then 
 proceeded to Daniel Merritt's. After ascending a rough narrow 
 passage, on a desolate mountain we passed over to-day, there 
 opened to view a small plantation with a dwelling-house. On 
 riding up to the door to inquire our way, a goodly woman came 
 out with a Bible in her hand, and gave us directions. I engaged 
 her in a little conversation, and found she was a member of 
 Society. I was made renewedly sensible, that He who formed 
 the mountains and planted the hills, whose presence is every 
 where, could be worshipped here, and my mind was favoured with 
 content in my present allotment ; blessed be His name, whose 
 work it is to bring into such a condition. Even in a waste wil- 
 derness, far away from family and friends, he can enable us to 
 visit them in spirit, and engage in humble prayer for our own and 
 their preservation. Thus I may thankfully acknowledge it has 
 been with me to-day, although much exercised and tried in setting 
 out from my dear wife and family. 
 
 " 15th. — Went to Monthly Meeting, and on the 17th, attended 
 the Quarterly Meeting of ministers and elders held at Nine Part- 
 ners, and on the 18th and 19th, the Quarterly Meeting for business. 
 
 " 20th. — The usual time of holding the Monthly Meeting at 
 the Creek, being yesterday, it was adjourned until to-day. We 
 attended it, and it held from eleven o'clock until night. A com- 
 mittee was appointed to visit the meetings of Hudson and Coey- 
 man's Patent, respecting settling two preparative meetings. 
 
 " 21st. — Went to a meeting about twelve miles further, called 
 Little Nine Partners, held in the barn of Obadiah Gifford. This 
 was an encouraging meeting to me, and after it we took a little 
 refreshment and proceeded, accompanied by divers Friends, who 
 were going to the new city of Hudson, thirty miles. 
 
 " 22nd. — Was not easy to appoint a meeting in this place, but 
 concluded to let Friends appoint one to-morrow, about sixteen 
 miles further on the other side of the river, and move on with 
 the aforementioned committee. 
 
 c 2 
 
20 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1785. 
 
 " 23rd. — Crossed the North river opposite the town, and rode 
 to meeting, and after an open time with Friends and friendly 
 people, opened the business of the Monthly Meeting, respecting 
 their holding a preparative meeting ; and after a solid conference, 
 it was concluded they might hold one. The first meeting in this 
 place was held by a Friend on a religious visit, five years ago, and 
 I have a comfortable prospect there will be an increase. The 
 meeting was held in a logdiouse. 
 
 " 25th. — Attended their week-day meeting at Hudson, with 
 the Monthly Meeting's Committee, and at the close mentioned to 
 Friends a prospect which accompanied my mind, to engage in visit- 
 ing families, if they united therewith ; which being approved, some 
 Friends were appointed to accompany me. In the afternoon, we 
 visited four families. 11 
 
 On the 26th, ten families were visited ; and he says, " this has 
 been an arduous laborious day's work, under which I seemed at 
 times near fainting, but was favoured to go through to a good 
 degree of satisfaction to myself, feeling peaceful this evening. 1 ' 
 
 On the 27th, after enumerating the families visited, he remarks ; 
 " another day of exercise and close labour. 11 
 
 " 28th. — First-day of the week. Went to their meeting held 
 at Hudson, which proved an exercising, searching time ; wherein 
 an invitation was held forth to all ranks, to come and join them- 
 selves to Christ Jesus, the free teacher of his people, and to 
 beware of false and hireling teachers. In the afternoon, finished 
 visiting families. 
 
 " 29th and 30th. — Spent pretty much alone at our lodgings, 
 being much shut up as to any prospect of moving from this place 
 with clearness ; find it safest to endeavour to stand still and wait 
 to see what will turn up. 11 
 
 On the 3rd of the ensuing month, accompanied by several 
 Friends, he went to New Britain ; on the 5th, they were at 
 Hoosack ; on the 8th, at the Monthly Meeting of East Hoosack ; 
 and on the 10th, at an appointed meeting at a settlement called 
 White Creek ; to which, he says, he " went poor and distressed, 
 and so remained for a time, but Truth arose and a remnant was 
 thankful we were together." 
 
 11th. — He says, " we crossed a mountain, and arrived at our 
 friend Stephen Rogers 1 , and after resting a little went to meeting, 
 in which my heart was more enlarged than at any time since I 
 left my home ; there appearing something lovely amongst these 
 mountain people. Returned with Stephen Rogers, where we met 
 
1785.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 21 
 
 with several friendly seeking people, with whom we had a solid 
 time. I showed them my certificate ; and the care and order of 
 Friends in such cases were satisfactory to them, having never 
 seen the like before. This has been a day to be remembered 
 with reverence and humility, under a sense of divine favour and 
 love. I had a good time with the family and several of the 
 neighbours. 
 
 " 12th. — Our kind friend provided us fresh horses to go for- 
 ward to the Monthly Meeting. From about half-past one to 
 near six o'clock this day, we rode through a wilderness, where 
 we found but one path. We were overtaken in this wilderness by 
 a man, who from his appearance, we judged to have been an under 
 officer in the late war, who was helpful in piloting us through to 
 his house. On the way I saw it to be my duty to show unto him 
 the way of life and salvation, and concluded I would leave it until 
 we were likely to part, which would be time enough. When we 
 came up to his cottage in the wilderness, doubts and weakness so 
 prevailed, as to induce me to endeavour to pass him by ; but on 
 riding a few rods forward, I found I must go back. My dear 
 companion, James Mott, told me afterwards, he was just going to 
 say to me, that if I had any thing for that man, to be faithful 
 and do it. We turned back and went into the house, where I 
 found my mind concerned to declare the way of life to them. 
 Beside the man's wife, his aged father, who was deaf, and his 
 mother who was sick and in bed, there were also a brother and his 
 wife, and one or two young women. I told them I had something 
 to say to them if they would be silent and hear me. The sick 
 woman answered that they were not of my profession, and they 
 knew enough. I was grieved with her conduct, and told them I 
 had freely offered, and if they would not hear me, I should be 
 clear; and taking out the man who came with us, I opened my 
 concern to him, and also to some of the rest at the door, on part- 
 ing. I believe they were concerned at the old woman's behaviour, 
 and one of the young women appeared tender. I was glad there 
 was a little stir made among them, although the act of duty might 
 appear small. 
 
 " l'3th. — To the meeting held at Daniel Hull's, which was a 
 good time amongst both Friends and others. In the silent part, 
 I apprehended I felt the gospel of Christ Jesus to flow over this 
 wilderness land, even to Canada ; and after dinner had a baptizing 
 time in a Friend's family, wherein one of the children was spoken 
 to particularly. 
 
22 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1786. 
 
 " lith. — To meeting ; a searching, but toward the close a good 
 time, and was glad I was there. After meeting, we had a baptiz- 
 ing time on parting from the family where we dined ; then 
 rode to the river, three miles, and crossed it in a boat which 
 sunk in taking Friends over to last Monthly Meeting ; one of 
 whom was drowned. 
 
 " 15th. — To Saratoga Monthly Meeting, and had a good time 
 in the meeting for worship. The Meeting for Discipline held until 
 night. 
 
 " 16th. — After a tendering opportunity in the family where we 
 lodged, set out for Hudson, and attended the morning and after- 
 noon meetings on the 18th." 
 
 On the 20th, he visited David Sands, in whose family they had 
 a solid opportunity. 
 
 " On the 22nd, reached James Motfs residence, and went to 
 the week-day meeting with the family, and therein was employed 
 in looking a little over my labours ; and although I feel poor and 
 like an unprofitable servant, nevertheless am favoured measurably 
 with a reward of solid peace in looking back, and feel easy to 
 endeavour to be with my brethren at our Yearly Meeting." 
 
 Soon after this he went to New York, from whence he proceeded 
 homeward, and arrived there on the 24-th, as he says, in " sweet 
 peace." 
 
 In the Eleventh Month, 1786, he made a religious visit to the 
 Quarterly Meeting of Fairfax, in Virginia, accompanied by his 
 friend Charles Williams, a valued member of the same Monthly 
 Meeting. In relation to the Quarterly Meeting, he thus writes : 
 " I have been favoured with an open door amongst my friends 
 during the time of the Quarter, and have occasion, with thankful- 
 ness of heart, to admire the goodness of the Lord, who hath a 
 right to turn and overturn at his pleasure, and who can change or 
 alter the condition of men, as a man doth the water-course in 
 the field. 
 
 He appears to have been detained in the neighbourhood of 
 Fairfax, visiting families and appointing meetings in this and 
 some of the neighbouring villages, in relation to which, he says, 
 under date of 1 8th of Twelfth Month : " My religious prospects 
 are much closed up : have been working in a circle ; and am now 
 at this place again, and see no way out. Wait in patience, 0 my 
 soul ! for the further opening of duty, seeing thou hast been 
 enabled hitherto from place to place, to set up thy Ebenezer." 
 
 Again, in a letter to his wife, under date of 19th of Twelfth 
 
1787.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 23 
 
 Month : " In these parts I frequently have not seen my way hut 
 a few hours beforehand, but as I am at times favoured to set up 
 my Ebenezer, though led in a trying path, I am encouraged to 
 move on in the faith, and hope thou hast been and will continue 
 to be, favoured to partake of that precious reward which the 
 Master gives his servants, both those who go forth to battle and 
 those that stay by the stuff." 
 
 Under date of 21st of Twelfth Month, he says : " Went home 
 with J. R., where we met with an open kind reception. This 
 man and wife, when I was here seven years ago with George 
 Dillwyn and Samuel Emlen, requested a religious opportunity in 
 his family. I am informed that in the beginning of our late 
 troubles and war, he was a captain of the militia, and led his men 
 over the mountains against the Indians ; he is now a valuable 
 member of Society, and has offered to accompany me on my 
 religious errand, on the same route over which years ago, he led 
 forth his men to war." 
 
 On the 9th of the First Month, 1787, he says : " A day of close 
 exercise of mind yesterday, because of so long confinement in this 
 neighbourhood, and no opening to any religious service. I had a 
 wakeful, thoughtful time last night. Individuals in this neigh- 
 bourhood are frequently brought into view, but no clear prospect 
 opens to visit them. 
 
 "10^. — Attended the week-day meeting again at Fairfax, 
 where, to my own humbling, and I believe the comfort of others, 
 we had a favoured time : the meeting is increasing ; it was small 
 on our first coming here, partly arising from an idle irreligious 
 disposition, and partly from the fear of getting the putrid sore 
 throat, which has been prevalent. 
 
 " Wth. — We are yet detained in this neighbourhood; no way 
 appears to move out, and no clear prospect to proceed to a family 
 visit. Soul wait in patience, willingly disposed to do anything 
 which may make for peace. 
 
 " 12th. — A pleasant scene opened the latter part of last night 
 in my wakeful moments, confirming me that I am in the way of 
 my religious duty. I had also an agreeable turn (mentally) into 
 my own family and amongst my friends, being enabled to put up 
 a petition for them.'' He visited a few families on this and the 
 following dav, which were generally favoured opportunities, and 
 produced a feeling of peace and consolation to his mind. 
 
 On the 14th, he again attended Fairfax meeting ; in relation to 
 it, he says : " It was the largest we have been at here, and I found 
 
MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1787. 
 
 much enlargement of heart to speak to various states ; there 
 appears to be a precious visitation renewed to this people, and I 
 believe some are made truly sensible thereof. I have found that my 
 trials in this place have been for good, and have seen the end of 
 them, even to baptize into a feeling sense of the state of this people. 
 What is revealed in secret in a time of mourning, in the night 
 season as well as by day, is afterward to be proclaimed as on the 
 house-top. I have found it good to wait and quietly hope for God's 
 salvation ; for when the Messenger of the Covenant appears at 
 seasons, his work is before him ; for his work it is, and his 
 precious reward he gives to his humbly devoted servants. Trust 
 in him, O my soul !" 
 
 From the 14th to the 22nd, he was engaged in family visits to 
 Friends and others, in many of which he was qualified to speak to 
 the states of individuals in a remarkable manner. In relation to 
 one of the opportunities, he says, under date of 22nd : " Felt my 
 mind exercised with something to say to a particular state present 
 with us ; and remarked, in conclusion, that I was willing to wait 
 for days, under probation, dipping into the states of others, to find 
 the way open and ability afforded to speak, if it were to but one 
 individual. Amongst the little company was one who appeared 
 much reached and tendered." 
 
 Another instance is thus related : " After we had dined, came in 
 a young man whom I wanted to see, from some feelings which 
 had accompanied my mind at times, though he was much a 
 stranger. Frequently when I heard his name mentioned, I 
 thought it was likely I must go to Leesburg almost on purpose to 
 see him. After he came in amongst us, although I felt poor, being 
 thoughtful of my own trying circumstances, a weight of exercise 
 came over me, and we had a tendering baptizing time ; and by 
 the account Friends gave me afterwards of what he had been, the 
 thoughts of his heart were plainly told him by a stranger, who 
 knew nothing by outward information. Thus am I detained in 
 this neighbourhood, in a stripped and tried condition, but not for 
 nought ; so may thanksgiving be rendered by my tried soul for 
 past preservation under such dispensations, and a dedicated mind 
 lived in, for time to come." 
 
 On the 28th of the month, he again remarks respecting the 
 meeting at Fairfax : " I was silently exercised for some time with 
 the consideration of Saul's assuming to offer, at the desire of the 
 people, without the presence of Samuel ; and willingly resigned to 
 wait until right ability was given. I had to stand up in weakness, 
 
1787.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 25 
 
 not clearly seeing what to open my mouth with, yet we were once 
 more favoured together, and I ventured to conclude the meeting 
 in supplication. 1 ' 
 
 After this meeting, he was released from further labour in this 
 neighbourhood, and felt his mind drawn to Redstone. He started 
 on the 30th, accompanied by several kind friends. In the families 
 of Friends on the way, and also at the meetings he attended, he 
 appears to have been favoured in his ministry, and some of the 
 opportunities he describes as being " tendering seasons to many." 
 
 At that time when the most fertile parts of our widely extended 
 country were but thinly inhabited, and the roads through them 
 but little attended to, a journey across the mountainous district 
 which separates the western from the eastern portion of Virginia 
 and Maryland, must have been lonely, if not hazardous. To one 
 constituted as he was, it must have been especially cheerless ; he 
 however, appears to have been preserved in a resigned state of 
 mind, and favoured generally with a cheerful spirit. On the 7th 
 of the Second Month, at a tavern on the mountain, they were much 
 annoyed with some rude persons, who kept him awake much of 
 the night : " As I lay," he observes, " it was my concern to 
 endeavour to get to my watch-tower, and examine how I had con- 
 ducted since we crossed the Blue Mountain, being desirous to 
 renew my acquaintance with the Lord my Master, who I believe 
 had called me forth.'" 
 
 On the 10th of the Second Month, he attended the Monthly 
 Meeting held at Redstone, and the next day, their First-day 
 morning meeting, in which he was silent, and clothed with 
 " much peace of mind toward the latter part." 
 
 From a letter, dated Redstone, Second Month 11th, 1787, the 
 following extract is taken : " I got as far as this place on Sixth- 
 day evening last, after a long and lonely ride over the Alleghany 
 mountain. I have been much favoured with health, and also, to 
 perform what I apprehended I was called unto, and some seasons 
 of precious favour, which have proved like seals of encouragement 
 when under more trying circumstances, have been mercifully 
 afforded. But for the most part, it has been my lot to travel 
 along in a little and low state, which I have believed to be a safe 
 one. I think I have also seen that those who come as far as this 
 remote settlement, had need to know their feet shod with the 
 preparation of the gospel of peace. I have experienced my faith 
 to be tried, and have had to look back and inquire what brought 
 me here, and have concluded it must have originated from best 
 
26 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1787. 
 
 motives, even love to the brethren — I remembered that when 
 under the chastening hand three years ago, this place was opened 
 before me, and I felt a willingness to set oft' then, if the Lord, my 
 heavenly Master, would be pleased to restore me to health of body, 
 and grant me peace and serenity of mind. I trust at that time 
 the will was taken for the deed ; and after a season, He was 
 graciously pleased to grant my request and open the way for me 
 to go to New England. The visit I am now engaged in, appears 
 to me like endeavouring to fulfil my part of the covenant entered 
 into in a season of sore affliction, and like performing my vows. 
 
 " I think my lot may be a little compared (if so unworthy a 
 servant may so speak) to that of the prophet Ezekiel, when he 
 digged through the wall. I do not find that it is expedient, at 
 every meeting, to open what it may be given me to see, — it has 
 been so at this place, having been at two public meetings, one 
 of them the Monthly Meeting held yesterday, and the other held 
 to-day, and have been silent in both. Toward the close of that 
 held this morning, my mind was clothed with thankfulness in a 
 full belief in the truth of those expressions ; ' To obey is better 
 than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams :' I am desirous 
 that I may be favoured to conduct myself through the course of 
 this journey, so as to return to you again in peace. My friends 
 feel near to me, and I desire the help of their spirits, having 
 frequently had to remember you, and thy kind desire for me when 
 parting. I had not a prospect of staying so long when I set out, 
 but find it good for me to labour from time to time after a state 
 of resignation, having experienced in past journeyings, being 
 favoured to return home in peace, and this is my aim now, 
 whether my absence be lengthened or not." 
 
 On the 13th, he says, " Exercised in mind this morning, but 
 was favoured with a good degree of resignation to my allotment, 
 nothing opening with clearness, and was content to abide this 
 day at our friend Reese Cadwaladers. 0 ! my weakness and 
 blindness." 
 
 The next day, he thus writes : " a poor creature this morning 
 compassed with weakness ; I set off to a week-day meeting, 
 about seven or eight miles distant, on the other side of the river, 
 called Dixon's meeting, and a miry road to travel. We got to it 
 however in time, where we found about fifteen or sixteen Friends, 
 men, women, and children, collected in a little log cabin : — I sat 
 the meeting through in silence, and was favoured to drop a tear 
 in resignation, not daring to put forth a hand to steal. 
 
1787.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SC ATTETiGOOD. 
 
 27 
 
 " Attended Westland meeting, which came next in course : 
 I was closely exercised in humble silent waiting to know my 
 Master's will concerning me ; and was favoured to drop my 
 silent tears in resignation to my allotment ; the way appearing 
 closed up as to any public communication amongst this people, 
 whom I have taken so much pains to come and see." 
 
 A striking trait in the character of this dear Friend, w-as the 
 great care he manifested not to move in any religious engagement, 
 without satisfactory evidence of its being the will of the great 
 Master in whose service he was engaged. This may account for 
 the following remarks which he makes about this time : — 
 
 " \9tk. — At a stand which way to move : feel a willingness to 
 go toward home if my divine Master pleases, having I trust been 
 concerned to act, so far, measurably in his counsel and will, as 
 made known to me a poor creature." 
 
 Upon conferring with some Friends, he concluded to move on, 
 and prepared to cross the mountain, but after riding some distance 
 into the woods, all seemed to close up, and it appeared most plea- 
 sant and easy to him to return back to the Friend's house from 
 which they started ; where he says, " T feel easy under this roof, 
 and remember with instruction, that when the cloud rested upon 
 the tabernacle, Israel was to abide in their tents. Laboured 
 patiently to content ourselves here this night." 
 
 The next day, he says, " no way opens, and the pain of my heart 
 is not easily described ; but in all these laborious seasons how 
 good it is to sink down into that which endureth the raging of the 
 sea of affliction. 0 ! how am I tried with jealousy and fear that it 
 was not right to come across this mountain, and no sufficient clear- 
 ness can I find — wait in patience, 0 my soul ! and reverently hope, 
 though it may be against hope, that thy Saviour is not far 
 from thee ; believe him to be as in the ' sides of the ship. 1 " 
 
 Towards the close of the evening of this day, he was favoured 
 with so much " calm as to cause thankfulness to arise, in that the 
 bitter cup was a little sweetened, so retired to rest." In the 
 morning " felt rather easier," and after breakfast sat down with 
 the family, amongst whom there appeared tenderness, and it 
 being their week-day meeting at Redstone, he attended it ; — 
 respecting which, he says, " another silent meeting, in which my 
 mind was deeply exercised ; and I was wrought into a willingness 
 to leave this settlement, and move on towards Hopewell ; and 
 whilst thus looking and thinking, not knowing but that I should 
 be clear — having endeavoured to be found in the way of my 
 
28 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1787. 
 
 duty, as far as I could find it, this thought presented to my mind ; 
 suppose I should have to return back from thence or further, how 
 then ? But even to this proving prospect I was resigned, for the 
 sake of my dear Master's owning presence, and was ready to con- 
 clude it might be a sacrifice called for at my hands to humble 
 the instrument, and for a sign to the people. Whilst these 
 thoughts possessed my mind, I was brought into a state wherein 
 I could conclude on nothing, and so was fain to become a blank ; 
 nevertheless, at intervals under these provings of soul, the states 
 of my fellow-professors seemed to be opening before me — so broke 
 up the meeting and lagged behind my companions, and breathed 
 forth my complaint unto God, desiring to be preserved in patience. 
 
 " 22nd. — Awoke this morning with fervent desires, if the cause 
 of this detention was in myself, that it might be searched out : 
 my youthful days, and days of vanity were brought up into re- 
 membrance, and I found a willingness to look over the past days 
 of my life, from my very youth to this day. 
 
 " Went to Westland meeting, and therein was solemnly en- 
 gaged in a continued deep search into my past life, unto the pre- 
 sent time ; and although blushing and confusion attended in the 
 remembrance of past transactions, mercy is with the Lord that he 
 may be feared and served with dedication of heart. ' Such were 
 some of you,' said the apostle. What were some of them in that 
 day ? Unthankful, unholy, disobedient to parents, covenant 
 breakers, and guilty of many other evils ! 0 ! that I had been 
 more careful to keep my covenants with the Lord my God in 
 youthful days ; then had I escaped many of the evils which he 
 mentions, which came down upon me like a mighty stream. But 
 why does a living man complain ; a man for the punishment of his 
 sins ? may not my tried soul join company measurably with them 
 to whom that servant also wrote, and to whom he says, ' Such were 
 some of you ; but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are 
 justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our 
 God.' Reverent thankfulness arose in my soul at the close of 
 this meeting, for sensible enlargement of heart, with a secret 
 belief I am in my place ; so I ventured to tell Friends after this 
 sixth silent meeting of worship, (that is, as to myself,) of what had 
 weightily impressed my mind, which was, with their approbation, 
 to assemble their children — and appoint a meeting for them to be 
 held next day but one after.''' 
 
 The next day being peaceful and easy in mind, he visited a 
 family, one of the members of which was sick. He had a religious 
 
1787.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 29 
 
 opportunity with them, and in the evening remarks : " a lonesome 
 evening in the midst of company." 
 
 After a refreshing night's rest, he says, " was measurably 
 favoured with a calm this morning. 0 ! that I may be favoured 
 to feel after and discharge my religious duty amongst this people, 
 to the honour of truth and my soul's peace. I went to the meet- 
 ing appointed for the children, feeling poor and in a stripped 
 condition in the fore part of it, and though I thought I dare not 
 say much about it, yet Friends concluded it was a favoured time. 
 
 " The next day attended the First-day meeting at Westland 
 — went to it with my usual poverty ; so stripping a time with 
 me in the fore part, that I thought it likely we should have another 
 silent meeting ; but feeling some little reviving of religious con- 
 cern, I laboured honestly in a close searching manner. Found 
 but little ease after this meeting, and my way being again much 
 shut up, conversation was as much so. After dinner, opened my 
 mouth amongst the Friends present, and told them, though 
 some were ready to wonder at my being thus led, I believed if I 
 returned home without saying anything more, my honest concern 
 would have its use, and the Master could sanctify it, and like 
 bread cast on the waters, bring it up after many days, when we 
 were far from each other. I also remarked, that I was willing 
 to move towards home, if consistent with the Divine will. It was 
 a broken tendering time, and some dear Friends expressed sym- 
 patby with me.' 1 
 
 He appointed a time to see the children of Friends together at 
 Dixon's meeting, and had an opportunity in the family of the 
 Friend at whose house he stopped, which " appeared to be a time 
 of brokenness of heart.''' He observes : " After breakfast, retired 
 into the woods, where I am now finishing these two days' notes, 
 with a thankful heart dedicated to God, under a sense of his loving 
 kindness and favour. - " 
 
 On the following morning, he attended the meeting appointed 
 for the children, in which he was favoured, and had renewed cause 
 to believe it was in the ordering of divine Wisdom that he 
 appointed it. 
 
 On the 28th, he attended the week-day meeting, " which," 
 he says, " was a favoured opportunity, to the comfort and rejoic- 
 ing of more than myself ; after which had a solid opportunity 
 with divers Friends, and felt refreshed and comforted in this day's 
 labour." 
 
 On the 1st of the Third Month, he attended another meeting, 
 
so 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1787. 
 
 and was again shut up in silence. " There were some here not pro- 
 fessing with us, to whom I felt a tenderness, and after expressing 
 a few words to turn their minds to the everlasting Father, in 
 whom there is no disappointment, even in silent meetings, I 
 requested they would leave Friends together and withdraw. After 
 this I relieved my mind in some degree in close labour with 
 them ; directing all to a deep examination of themselves, as had 
 been my concern, to see what the cause was that it should be thus 
 with them. Little but barrenness have I felt amongst this people. 
 At the close, appointed a meeting for the children, to be held to- 
 morrow at the eleventh hour. 
 
 " Third Mouth 2nd. — A refreshing night's sleep. The meeting 
 for children is coming on, and what am 1 1 O ! for the washing 
 of water by the Word. Went to the meeting at the time appointed, 
 under exercising discouraging thoughts, and continued silently 
 shut up until it appeared near time to break up, when a concern 
 arose in my mind to tell such of the elders or parents as were 
 present, what had been my employment in the meeting. This 
 was, to have my own heart searched, and my desire remained that 
 they might be found engaged in the same work. After which I 
 was turned toward the children, and also in a particular manner 
 toward a seeking state present, not of our Society, unto whom I 
 found considerable openness, and was informed after meeting, that 
 there were several of that number present ; some who had left the 
 Church of England, and were now looking toward, or had joined 
 the Methodists ; and one seeking man, who heard of this meet- 
 ing, rather chose to come to it than go to a marriage he was 
 invited to. With this day's labour I found peace, though trying 
 in the beginning. 
 
 " 3rd. — Attended another meeting for the children at Red- 
 stone, in which I had an open time, which was cause of 
 thankful rejoicing." The next day after attending the regular 
 meeting at Redstone, which he describes as a laborious painful 
 time, he returned to Reese Cadwalader's, where he had the 
 company of several Friends, amongst whom and the family, he 
 remarks : " I was once more favoured to feel the spring of gospel 
 ministry arise in such a manner, as to water others and be 
 refreshed myself. 
 
 " 5th. — Favoured with a good degree of serenity and peace of 
 mind this morning, under a sense that I have so far laboured to 
 be found in the way of religious duty." 
 
 Charles Williams feeling released from further duty, left him ; 
 
1787.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEEGOOD. 
 
 31 
 
 respecting which he says : " This morning I took an affectionate 
 farewell of my tender-hearted companion, who has gone toward 
 home ; after which I laboured in retirement of mind to feel after 
 my divine Master's will concerning me. 0 ! that I may be pre- 
 served under a solemn sense of the importance of the business I 
 am engaged in, and that the good hand may accompany this dear 
 youth to his parents and friends. After dinner, we went to C. 
 G.'s, and with him and family had a solid time. I thought it was 
 solemnly so, and these expressions arose with weight and were 
 delivered amongst them ; ' I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried 
 in the fire, that thou mayst be rich ; and white raiment, that 
 thou mayst be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness 
 do not appear ; and anoint thine eyes with eye-salve, that thou 
 mayst see.' From thence went to P. G.'s, where we had another 
 searching religious opportunity. My mind is often depressed 
 under a sense of the low state of things amongst the professors in 
 our Society, and I meet with various provings, in the manner in 
 which I am led when abroad. 
 
 " 7th. — Attended their week-day and preparative meeting at 
 Redstone ; a painful suffering time. In the forepart thereof 
 this language was uttered, 'Awake, arise thou sleeper, call upon 
 thy God, if happily he may save us. 1 I had some prospect in the 
 morning of appointing a meeting in the little town this evening ; 
 but now it is gone. There must be faith, love and desire, in 
 hearers as well as preacher, to labour to profit. This has been a 
 dark and heavy day to my spirit." 
 
 On the 8th, he visited the preparative meeting of Westland, and 
 had an opportunity with the children of a Friend in the neigh- 
 bourhood, and during the next two days was principally engaged 
 in visiting families. 
 
 " Wth. — Went to meeting, which, after some struggling 
 and conflict, was pretty open. The people were exhorted to 
 labour in all their religious meetings to know the true place of 
 waiting, and to beg for their daily bread. Whilst speaking I 
 met with a sudden stop in my mind as to the expression of more 
 words, and found it safest to sit down, and experienced peace in 
 doing so. After some time, the situation of Abraham and Lot, 
 with their being so mercifully delivered out of Sodom, very sud- 
 denly impressed my mind ; with which I stood up again and 
 expressed, that I dare not doubt that the good and great Remem- 
 brancer, or quick and powerful Word, which is sharp and sharper 
 than a two-edged sword, to the dividing between a man and his 
 
32 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1787. 
 
 lovers, flesh and spirit, influenced my heart to warn some to be 
 content with such things as they were favoured with ; reminding 
 them of the annexed blessing : ' I will never leave thee nor forsake 
 thee;' — and not indulge a roving disposition, and leave their 
 friends with whom they were so favoured as to be embodied into 
 a little Society ; and as they kept their places they would yet be 
 favoured. But if any should break through, and go contrary to 
 the mind of concerned brethren, and get several hundred miles 
 off — if any unforeseen distress should come upon them, how 
 would it fare with them ? This little testimony appeared close and 
 searching, and I did not find my peace disturbed in delivering it. 
 Some Friends after meeting expressed their satisfaction therewith, 
 believing it would have a tendency to strengthen the hands of the 
 honest labourers. No way opens with clearness to leave this 
 place ; and this evening felt so impressed with a sense of my own 
 weakness and unworthiness, that it led me into the fields to seek 
 counsel of the Lord, where I experienced a little quiet and calm, 
 in a solitary situation. 
 
 " 12^7*. — A restless night, under the painful thought that the 
 flesh prevailed too much over me in one instance. 0, what small 
 things grieve a tender conscience ! May I be favoured to labour 
 after more perfect victory, and at present rest humbled under this 
 petition ; ' Lord ! forgive what is past, and condescend to be near 
 to help in future. 1 " 
 
 Although he was for some time considerably exercised as to 
 what step to take, he finally concluded to go homewards ; and had 
 parting religious opportunities with several families and Friends ; 
 in relation to one of which, he thus writes, under date of the 
 13th of the month. 
 
 " Had a parting opportunity with this family, which I hope 
 will not be easily forgotten by us or them ; after which I found 
 considerable ease of mind, and rode to Beesontown, twelve miles, 
 where we dined ; and then collected this large family together, 
 with some others, and were favoured with a baptizing season. 
 My soul was bowed in supplication, and also in reverent thanks- 
 giving, to the gracious Author of my life and well-being, who led 
 me here, and has preserved and fed me, and now is opening a 
 door out, to my solid peace and comfort. Parted with dear R. 0. 
 at this place ; and I thought the ancient language was measurably 
 experienced by my thankful mind : ' The wilderness and solitary 
 place shall be glad for them, and the desert shall rejoice and 
 blossom as the rose.'" 
 
1787.] MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTKRGOOD. 33 
 
 In crossing the mountain they met with the usual difficulties 
 experienced by travellers at that period, in consequence of the 
 rugged character of the road, and the poor accommodations both 
 for man and horse, which they were obliged to submit to. At 
 the taverns, as well as on the road, when he believed it to be his 
 duty, he did not fail to exhort persons with whom he met, to flee 
 from the error of their ways. With respect to the scenery of the 
 mountain, with which he was much interested and gratified, he 
 says : " Heard the sound of the frogs, denoting the approach of 
 spring. What harmony in the outward creation ! nothing, how- 
 ever minute, was made in vain. Even these creatures seem to 
 be uttering thanks to the great Creator, for the opening of a new 
 season. I was delighted with seeing the birds sporting themselves 
 in the woods : the voice of the turtle-dove was also to be heard, 
 and the husbandman was seen at the plough. All this, perhaps, 
 not more than fifteen miles from ice and snow. It has been a day 
 of solid thoughtfulness, in meditation on the wonderful works of 
 Providence. When viewing the beautiful springs gushing from 
 the sides of the hills, amongst the rocks and stones, I had to 
 remember that ' springs were to be found even in the desert, and 
 fountains in high places.' Various landscapes opened one after 
 another, in viewing which I frequently found profitable employ- 
 ment on the road. But over and above all, this day, and pecu- 
 liarly so this afternoon, was the fresh feeling and sense of the love 
 of Christ my Lord and Master, shed abroad in my heart, making 
 it like spring-time in a spiritual sense. The remembrance of the 
 poverty of spirit in which I crossed this mountain about one 
 month ago — of my close exercises on the other side — of the preser- 
 vation vouchsafed under them — and how the way and time to 
 return homewards, were set open so clearly before me, brought 
 feelings over my mind, in which that saying was measurably ful- 
 filled ; ' He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, 
 shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with 
 him.' My mind was bowed in reverent thankfulness, and many 
 passages of Scripture were opened to my understanding, wherein 
 I was measurably favoured with a taste of the same experience 
 which holy men of old spoke of. This made it feel like a spring- 
 time indeed, the wintry season of trials and close provings being 
 for a moment past and hid, and the singing of birds heard, as also 
 the voice of the turtle spiritually. My dear family and some of 
 my friends were brought feelingly into remembrance ; and as I had 
 been engaged for the good of the children of others, so now 
 
 D 
 
34 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. [1787. 
 
 my desires and my prayers have been put up to my gracious 
 Redeemer, that he would look down and remember mine. May 
 I still be engaged to give up in the littleness and weakness ; but in 
 the faith, to follow my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, who is 
 abundantly able out of weakness to make strong." 
 
 On the 17th, after having been kindly entertained at a friend's 
 house, who since they passed that way before, had experienced 
 considerable affliction, he says : " I remembered when about to 
 leave this house on our outset, I ventured, on my bended knees, 
 to supplicate my dear Lord to go with us, as he did with his poor 
 prophet formerly, whom he caused the ravens to feed ; and now 
 considering how he had preserved and brought me back again in 
 peace, and had so eminently visited this family, my mouth was 
 again unexpectedly opened to express the grateful sense received, 
 and to pray for further preservation ; which proved a tendering 
 time, I believe, to most present." 
 
 After attending Centre meeting, in which he had to set an 
 example of silence, for which he remarks, he thought there was 
 cause, he felt a drawing to visit an individual and her father, who 
 were Methodists, where it appears he lodged and was hospitably 
 entertained. " In the morning," he says, " family duty was 
 performed before we were out of bed. When we were about 
 sitting down to breakfast, grace was said by the master, as was 
 last evening ; and my heart being exercised in a thoughtful con- 
 cern for them, I kept my standing, and after a season kneeled 
 down in supplication ; after which 1 found peace to flow as to my 
 own particular. Breakfast being ended, the daughter expressed 
 something in a low voice, like giving thanks for benefits received ; 
 and being about to leave them, I requested a silent opportunity, 
 when I was favoured, I trust, to declare my exercise faithfully : 
 some tenderness appeared, and the religiously minded woman on 
 parting, desired the Lord might bless me." 
 
 From the 20th to the 30th of the Third Month, he was detained 
 in the neighbourhood of Fairfax, visiting meetings, and also many 
 of the families composing them. On the 29th, he says, " he went 
 to M. J.'s, in order to get ready to leave this settlement in the 
 morning ; the way and time seem to be opening. I trust all my 
 debts here are nearly paid, and may I not stay one hour longer 
 than the precious oil which is due to others, is experienced to run. 1 ' 
 
 On the 31st, he proceeded some distance toward home, which 
 he says, " looked pleasant, but at the same time I felt a care of 
 indulging the prospect of reaching it in a few days." A corjcern 
 
1787.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOO. 
 
 35 
 
 arose in the evening to visit Pipe and Bush Creek meetings, which 
 had been hid for some days previous. This, he remarks, would 
 be work enough for six or eight weeks more, and having no steady 
 companion, his beast lame, and "the instrument poor and empty,''' 
 he was introduced into much exercise. The next day, he attended 
 two meetings, in which he was favoured to labour to the ease of 
 his own mind, and to the encouragement and comfort of some 
 others ; yet he thus writes : " What a poor creature I am this 
 evening : my enemy is very near, and has been labouring to cause 
 me to break rank. How careful should gospel ministers be — those 
 who make use of such exalted language as is at times put into their 
 mouths — to keep their bodies in subjection, lest they be caught in 
 the snares of the wicked one, and after such high favour, become 
 cast-aways. Went to bed under exercise; my way closed up. 1 ' 
 
 For some time his way continued hedged up, and under deep 
 exercise, he thus writes : " Dearest Lord, have I not given up to 
 be thy servant ? lead, 0 ! lead and guide me in the way I should 
 go. If there be any thing more for me to do, baptize and fit me 
 for the service, and if there is no more, be pleased to preserve thy 
 servant, and bring him in safety to his outward habitation ; for 
 thou canst abundantly bless all them that love thee." 
 
 On the 5th, he attended the meeting at Bush Creek ; in which 
 he had an open satisfactory opportunity ; on the 7th, the Monthly 
 Meeting of Warrington, which he sat almost through in silence, 
 but near the close these expressions impressed his mind to deliver ; 
 " it is a precious thing to be found a learner in that school, wherein 
 Jesus Christ presides as the heavenly Teacher ; and where this 
 lesson is to be learnt, ' not my will, 0 Father ! but thine be done 
 it is a lesson I found necessary for me to learn, and I had peace in 
 dropping the same."" 
 
 Soon after he was permitted to turn his face homeward again, 
 and arrived in York, Pennsylvania, on the 10th, where he writes : 
 
 "It has been a proving dispensation since I left this place ; 
 somewhat resembling my outward journey over the mountains, 
 where a place called ' the shades of death," 1 is to be passed through 
 on the way to a beautiful prospect, from the mountain over the 
 good land ! 0 ! that I may be favoured with renewed faith and 
 patience ; and experience a returning home in peace, when this 
 religious pilgrimage is fully over, to the honour of the great 
 Master ; who knows best how to break the spirits of his servants, 
 and fit them for the reception of himself in his blessed appearance 
 of sweetening encouraging love." 
 
 n 2 
 
36 
 
 MEMOIKS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1787. 
 
 Having been considerably indisposed, he stayed a day or two at 
 York to recover his health ; and Peter Yarnall having offered to 
 accompany him to Lancaster, where he understood John Townsend, 
 a ministering friend from England expected to be, they started for 
 that place on the 13th. But on the 14th, he believed it to be his 
 duty to return and visit Monallen meeting, and some others in 
 the neighbourhood, though he says, " with very little prospect of 
 any good resulting, unless for his own mortification.'' 1 
 
 He visited these meetings, and found in one at least there was 
 cause for his returning. He had the company of his elder brother 
 John Townsend, who proved to be a sympathizing father and en- 
 courager to him, and he remarks, " it was a peculiar satisfaction to 
 find we have been led so much alike in religious communication. 1 ' 
 t On the 19th, after attending Monallen meeting, he says: " I 
 find much relief, and it appeared as though my release from more 
 religious service was near ; my mind being turned toward ray own 
 residence." 
 
 On the 20th he set off, and at the ferry over the Susquehannah, 
 he says he felt his mind religiously concerned to caution and advise 
 the inn-keeper, which he accepted kindly, and he was also engaged 
 to reprove the ferry-men for their vanity and swearing, to which 
 they seemed to listen with attention. " 0 ! how many poor aban- 
 doned creatures there are up and down, who are drinking in sin 
 and iniquity as an ox drinketh water. 11 
 
 On the 21st of Fourth Month, 1787, after an absence of nearly 
 five months, he was permitted to return to his family and friends 
 with " the sweet reward of peace." 
 
1788.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 37 
 
 CHAPTER III. 
 
 1 788-1792.— TRAVELS IN SOME PARTS OP PENNSYLVANIA AND NEW 
 
 JERSEY FATAL ACCIDENT TO A YOUNG MAN RELIGIOUS LABOURS IN 
 
 NEW YORK, LONG ISLAND, STATEN ISLAND, ETC. RECEIVES INFOR- 
 MATION THAT SEVERAL YOUNG PER.ONS ARE DROWNED ; PREVIOUSLY 
 EXERCISED STATE — VISITS FAMILIES IN SHREWSBURY QUARTERLY 
 MEETING, EXTRACTS FROM SOME OF HIS LETTERS. 
 
 On the 27th of the Eleventh Month, 1788, he again left his 
 family and friends, with the approbation of his Monthly Meeting ; 
 on the 28th, attended the Youths' meeting at Middletown, Bucks 
 County, Pennsylvania ; on the 30th, Plumstead meeting, and 
 taking Buckingham Monthly Meeting, Wrightstown and Falls 
 meetings, he crossed the river to Burlington ; and on the 7th of 
 Twelfth Month, had a meeting for the inhabitants of his native 
 city, which was large, and thought to be a solid good time. 
 
 On the 8th, he attended an appointed meeting at Mansfield 
 Neck, and the next day their Monthly Meeting ; and being joined 
 by John Hoskins and John Cox, they were at meetings at 
 Vincentown, Mount Holly, and Upper Springfield. 
 
 On the 16th, he says: "had a solid time with the widow 
 Newbold's family, and then went to see a young man, about 
 twenty-five years of age, with a lovely wife and child, who lies ill, 
 in consequence of a fall from a horse, which he was running on 
 the afternoon of the last Youths 1 meeting at Crosswicks. He left 
 home on business, but attended the meeting, which I have under- 
 stood was a favoured time ; and from thence he went to a tavern 
 and got amongst some company who induced him to join them, 
 against his judgment and inclination, and at last persuaded him 
 to run his horse against one of theirs. As he was doing so, he 
 was knocked off the horse by striking a tree, and was taken up for 
 dead, and has been in a deplorable condition for three weeks past." 
 
 On the 17th, attended Mansfield [meeting in a stripped condi- 
 tion ; on the 18th, shut up as to any prospect, so remained at 
 the widow Newbold's, our kind friend John Cox remaining with 
 us in sympathy. 
 
 "21si. — Learned that the young man above alluded to was 
 still alive, and expressed some concern that I did not come to see 
 
38 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1789. 
 
 him ; so concluded to do so, and found him sensible ; I laboured 
 in the ability given for his everlasting welfare, and he expressed 
 his satisfaction and thankfulness for the visit. 
 
 " 22nd. — This morning received an account that L. N., the 
 beforementioned young man, deceased last night. Went after 
 breakfast to see J. F., who lay in a sorrowful condition, and then 
 to another family who had kindly invited us. After we had dined 
 and were about sitting down together in a religious way, Daniel 
 Offley came in ; which put me to some trial, but I found there 
 was no time to lose, and my beloved brother, D. O., soon perceived 
 what was going forward, and proved a fellow-helper. The next 
 day attended the funeral of the young man, and held a meeting 
 on the occasion, in which D. Offley was a fellow-labourer. Then 
 I found a liberty gently opening in my heart, but in much weak- 
 ness and fear to appoint meetings forwards. I called to see the 
 poor afflicted widow who did not go to the funeral ; and returned 
 to the widow Newbold's, peaceful and easy, being now favoured 
 to see the end of my detention and trials in this neighbourhood, 
 and hope the aforesaid meeting was a solemn time of warning 
 and caution to numbers. My heart is thankful to the Lord for 
 his merciful preservation in patience. 
 
 " On the 24th, attended a meeting appointed at Bordentown ; 
 and on the 25th, at a large meeting at Crosswicks, where my Lord 
 and Master favoured me with strength to relieve my soul fully ; 
 having in the course of religious communication to revive the 
 melancholy circumstance of the poor young man before recited. 
 After dinner visited the tavern-keeper and wife, near by where 
 the race was run, and then to Nathan Wright's, where we were 
 affectionately received and owned. 
 
 " 26th. — To Arneytown meeting, which was large, but a very 
 exercising time to me. As we were riding towards N. W.'s, 
 about one mile from meeting, over a very rough road, my mare 
 fell down and threw me over her head, but through preserving 
 mercy and care I received not much hurt. For which favour, as 
 soon as I was a little recovered from such a sudden surprise, I 
 found reverent thankfulness to spring up in my heart, unto the 
 upholder and preserver of his creature man. Spent this evening 
 at Nathan Wright's, partly in a solid religious opportunity with 
 this family and some others present, I hope to profit." 
 
 After attending meetings at Robins', Shrewsbury, Freehold, 
 and Trenton, he writes : 
 
 '■'■First Month 1st, 1789. — Awoke this morning with renewed 
 desire to be found walking in the way of my duty, and that it 
 
1789.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SC ATTIiRGOOD. 
 
 39 
 
 might be as the day of a fresh setting out under the guidance of 
 the heavenly Pilot, Christ Jesus. Was also favoured with souie 
 precious openings in regard to my present journey ; went to 
 meeting at the time appointed, — my companion, I thought had 
 something lively to offer, but found it my business to sit silent, 
 in which I was favoured with renewed satisfaction and comfort ; 
 yet on the close was not easy, without appointing another meeting 
 at six o'clock this evening, desiring such as were with us to come 
 again, and also to invite their absent neighbours. Went to 
 meeting at the time appointed, which was pretty full, and trust it 
 proved a solid baptising time.' 1 
 
 [He] went to Burlington, and on the 4th, opened in their 
 Monthly Meeting a prospect of visiting in their families, all the 
 inhabitants of the town who were willing to receive him, which 
 being solidly considered, some Friends were appointed to accom- 
 pany him — John Cox offering himself a volunteer. From this 
 time, until the 6th of the Second Month, was spent in accom- 
 plishing the service; after which, accompanied by John Cox, 
 went to the Falls, and from thence to Makefield, Wrightstown, 
 Kingwood, Hardwich, and Mendham ; from thence to Plainfield, 
 Rahway, Stony Brook, and through Trenton, to Burlington 
 Quarterly Meeting. After this, he returned to his own home, 
 with sheaves of peace in his bosom ; and adds, " may the Lord, 
 the helper of Israel, be praised." 
 
 In the summer of this year, he again left home in the service 
 of his divine Master, being engaged to pay a visit in gospel love 
 to some meetings in New York, and on Long Island, in which 
 engagement he had the company of his friend John Cox. After 
 attending a number of meetings on Long Island, he was at Oyster 
 Bay, on the 26th of Seventh Month, which was a solemn and 
 profitable season, as was also a religious opportunity in a family, 
 he remarks, " Here it may not be unprofitable to record the 
 mercy and goodness of the Lord to his devoted children, who at 
 times is pleased to make them helpful one to another, and encou- 
 ragers of one another, when favoured of Him." 
 
 He attended the Quarterly Meetings at Purchase and at 
 Flushing, and also the Monthly Meeting at the latter place, at 
 which were a number of Friends appointed by the Quarterly 
 Meeting, and it proved a strengthening and comforting season, 
 wherein they were enabled to thank God and take courage. They 
 soon after returned to the city of New York, where they met with 
 Rebecca Jones, and the following memorandum occurs : — 
 
40 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1789. 
 
 '■'Eighth Month 9th. — Attended the meetings in New York, 
 wherein my elder sister Rebecca Jones had a large share of public 
 service, and I also had some labour, which afforded satisfaction and 
 peace to myself. 
 
 " \2th. — Went to the week-day meeting at New York, accom- 
 panied by a Friend who had been low in his mind, and had not 
 been at meeting for upwards of six years. It proved a good 
 meeting to more than myself, and in the evening, to the great 
 comfort of his relations, prevailed on the above-mentioned Friend, 
 to return to his lovely family, from whom he has been absent 
 several years. When I was here four years ago, I was concerned 
 to visit this poor disconsolate man, and on bended knees to pray 
 for him. I also went to see his wife and children, and in an oppor- 
 tunity with them, had to express my prospect, that the time of 
 deliverance from this affliction would come, and perhaps, was not 
 afar off ; and it has been strengthening and encouraging to me 
 now, to see him again restored to his family, and in his right 
 mind." 
 
 On the 14th, he left New York, and the 15th and 16th, he 
 attended the Quarterly Meeting at Rahway, in company with 
 Rebecca Jones and M. Robinson; after which, the following 
 memorandum occurs : — 
 
 " 17th. — A very large meeting, and a great mixture of different 
 sorts of people, many of whom could not get into the house. I 
 believed it my place to stand forth amongst them with a heart 
 much exercised, on account of the looser sort, not only amongst 
 Friends, but of all ranks. I was led to caution and warn the 
 unwary and frolicsome youth, and to tell them of the circum- 
 stance of the young man who was killed at a horse race, (see page 
 37) ; remarking, that the Almighty warned his creatures in 
 various ways, sometimes by night in dreams and visions, as J ob 
 says ; and sometimes by day also. After this, our dear friend 
 Rebecca Jones was favoured in a large testimony, chiefly to 
 Friends ; and at the close of the meeting, when about to part, I 
 had again to stand up, and warn the youth in a particular manner, 
 that they should return from the meeting home, under a thankful 
 sense of the favours received, and keep out of lightness and 
 frolicing. 
 
 " 1 8th. — Was a large meeting, wherein there was acceptable 
 service ; we had the company of our dear friend Joseph Delaplaine 
 of New York, whom I felt near to my life in inward labour, 
 although silent. 
 
1789.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS 8CATTERGOOD. 
 
 41 
 
 " \ 9th. — Went to Plainfield Monthly Meeting, accompanied 
 by my friend, J. Whitall, who has been with me during the time 
 of Rahway Quarterly Meeting. Rebecca Jones and John Cox 
 stayed at Rahway poorly, not venturing out in the rain. I think 
 we had a favoured good meeting at Plainfield, and then returned 
 to Rahway." 
 
 In a letter to a friend, dated Rahway, Eighth Month, 1789, 
 he says : — 
 
 " I thought I would send thee a few lines by the bearer hereof, 
 E. R., who attended Plainfield Monthly Meeting yesterday, with 
 his offering. I was glad for E/s sake, that 1 was there, and 
 thought there was a solid weight attended. Friends readily 
 received him into membership, and a certificate to our meeting is 
 to be prepared, to be produced next month. I thought it would 
 be satisfactory to hear this much, and a little also of what thy 
 poor and often enfeebled brother has been about. I went no fur- 
 ther than Purchase Quarterly Meeting, about thirty miles above 
 New York. Finding that [for] Nine Partners 1 Quarter was held 
 the same week as this at Rahway, I was easy to cross to Long 
 Island again. I was much shut up and exercised in that island, 
 but favoured to come away easy and peaceful, and my visit to 
 Friends in New York, as to myself, has been the most peaceful 
 and pleasant of any time I have been there. 
 
 " My companion John Cox, sets off presently in company with 
 E. R., and I have James Whitall of Woodbury with me; he 
 came with a minute from their Monthly Meeting, to see me 
 round within the compass of their Quarter ; but here I am this 
 morning, as frequently is my lot, a poor blind servant, waiting 
 for future direction, seeing no way to move with sufficient clear- 
 ness. I have been favoured with the acceptable company of our 
 dear Rebecca Jones, both at New York and in this place, which 
 has been strengthening to me. 
 
 " 20th. — John Cox left us pretty early ; some time after which 
 dear M. Robinson, J. Delaplaine, and other Friends from New 
 York, being ready to return, we sat down together, and were 
 favoured with a precious season. After parting with so many 
 near friends, my mind was tenderly affected, and gathered into a 
 quiet habitation, wherein it was nearly turned toward my beloved 
 helpmate in life. 
 
 " 2\st. — Rebecca Jones left in company with Joseph Shotwell, 
 and after they were gone, my mind was thoughtfully engaged 
 
42 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1789. 
 
 to know for what end I was thus left as it were, alone ; and 
 all prospect of religious service removed. I had laboured fer- 
 vently during the time of the Quarterly Meeting, and had 
 thoughts of appointing a meeting on Staten Island, but that was 
 removed, and here I was left, a poor blind exercised servant ; and 
 was sunk under such a weight of exercise, that I thought of going 
 up to lie on my bed. Whilst sitting in this exercised condition, 
 James Shotvvell came into the room where I and my companion 
 J. Whitall were sitting, and informed us that a sorrowful circum- 
 stance had happened, a number of young people going into the 
 water at Sandy Hook, were drowned, and the bodies of four young 
 women were just brought up in the shallop they went out in. We 
 walked down to the landing, and there saw them lying on straw 
 on the deck, side by side, and a very serious sight it was. After 
 we returned home to J. Shotwell's, I was soon informed by my 
 blessed Guide, there was more work for me to do in this place, 
 and I was strengthened to desire Friends to go to the houses of 
 the relatives of the deceased, most of whom it was expected, would 
 be laid in Friends 1 ground, and make way for a meeting after 
 the burial, which they did, and it was concluded to bury them all 
 in one grave in Friends' ground ; and there being a burial this 
 afternoon of a young woman of the Presbyterian Society, who 
 died of a putrid fever, and some Friends attending it, gave notice 
 of the burial to-morrow. I went to the house of a relation of 
 one of the persons drowned, where we had an humbling time 
 amongst a number of the relations and others, who escaped the 
 jaws of death. 
 
 " 22nd. — Went to the burial, which was a solemn scene : such 
 a grave I never saw before — wide enough to lay the bodies of 
 these poor young women side by side, who but a few days before, 
 were mostly in full health and strength, and most or all of them 
 at meeting. Solemn it was to see the coffins one by one, brought 
 into the grave-yard. We went into meeting, which was made 
 up of various ranks and classes of men and women, the passages 
 filled up with those who stood, and many out of doors who could 
 not get in. I had a laborious time amongst them, but trust, 
 through divine help, the free and everlasting gospel was preached, 
 and Truth not dishonoured. The people behaved quietly, con- 
 sidering the great throng. It was a relieving time to me, although 
 spending to the body ; but the Lord can help, and does help his 
 poor servants in the needful time : praifjd be his name ! and may 
 the mouths of the servants be kept as in the dust before him." 
 
1789.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 43 
 
 The following account of this mournful event, is furnished by 
 another hand : — 
 
 " At our last Quarterly Meeting, our beloved friend Thomas 
 Scattergood, in the course of his public testimony, in moving 
 language warned the youth present to beware of wanton beha- 
 viour, dancing, frolicing, &c; stating, that he had known several 
 instances of divine displeasure being manifested to individuals, 
 who had attended such meetings as these, and directly afterwards 
 had gone to horse-races, or other sinful pastimes. One instance 
 he mentioned, of a young man, who, on his way home from a 
 favoured meeting, falling in with a company of persons who were 
 collected for a horse-race ; they urged him to ride one of the 
 horses. He at first refused, but being pressed by some of them, 
 at length yielded — and in the race was thrown from the horse, 
 which occasioned his death. He said it appeared to be his busi- 
 ness to warn the youth present to beware of such conduct, lest 
 some of them might be made like examples. ' I do not say,' 
 said he, ' it will be the case, but I find it my place to proclaim a 
 solemn warning. 1 
 
 " On Third-day, our meeting ended : — twenty-seven persons, 
 chiefly young people, embarked on board a boat, bound for Sandy 
 Hook ; but before they set off, it was observed that several of 
 them were discouraged, and ready to give it up ; and on their way 
 it was remarked, how dreadful it would be if any unfavourable 
 accident should happen, after having been at meeting, and hearing 
 the advice then given. On Fourth-day, they went to view a 
 monument erected over a person of distinction, who with twelve 
 others perished there not long before. On Fifth-day, they walked 
 to the light-house, and on their return went on a narrow reef of 
 sand, which is bare at low water as also the way to it ; on this 
 they spent some time in walking, &c. At .length, observing the 
 tide to run fast, they were alarmed and concluded to return. But 
 alas ! the sea had hidden their path, and covered all their way- 
 marks ! However, they made the attempt, and as they were 
 pressing on, eleven of them suddenly stepped into the deep, were 
 overwhelmed as in a moment, and seven of them perished. The 
 others, with the assistance of some of the company who could 
 swim, got to the shore, though almost spent. Four of the bodies 
 were found, and brought up here [llahway], on Sixth-day. The 
 next day was appointed for their interment, and notice being given, 
 a great concourse of people attended ; after which a meeting was 
 
44 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1789. 
 
 held, wherein our beloved friend, Thomas Scattergood, was en- 
 abled to preach the gospel, pertinently to exhort all present to profit 
 by the present calamity, and feelingly to impart a portion of con- 
 solation to those who drank largely of sorrow's streams. He had 
 not felt easy to return home after our Quarterly Meeting ended ; 
 but waiting in great exercise of mind, was not able to discover the 
 cause of his being thus detained. On Sixth-day morning, he retired 
 into a private room, and sitting a while under the like pressure 
 of exercise, a messenger stepped in with the foregoing sorrowful 
 tidings. Then he could account for the trying dispensation he 
 had passed through, which he related in his discourse to the 
 crowded audience, observing that it might be said of him as of 
 Nehemiah, ' Why art thou sad, seeing thou art not sick V ' I was 
 not sick,' said he, ' but felt such oppression of exercise, that I 
 thought of taking my bed.' " 
 
 " 23rd. — Attended two pretty large meetings in Rahway — had 
 large open service in them ; and in the evening went to visit the 
 
 afflicted widow of , who perished, and is not yet found : 
 
 here we met with a number of neighbours, and it was I hope an 
 humbling awful time, which will be remembered, and the poor 
 widow, I trust, was somewhat strengthened and encouraged." 
 
 After holding a meeting on Staten Island, he again attended 
 Rahway meeting on the 25th, and proceeded to Stony Brook, 
 where he appointed a meeting the next day, in which he was 
 silent ; from thence he went to Trenton, where a meeting was 
 held, in which he says, " I hope we were favoured to offer an 
 acceptable evening sacrifice." 
 
 After this, he attended Bucks Quarterly Meeting, and went to 
 Burlington, where he remained visiting the meetings as they came 
 in course, until the 4th of Ninth Month. 
 
 On the 3rd, he thus writes : " Attended the week-day meeting 
 in Burlington, in which my mind was very particularly turned to 
 speak to the state of an individual, who appeared to me to be pre- 
 sent ; and next day I met with a person, who I knew not was at 
 meeting, but he acknowledged frankly, that he was the person 
 thus spoken to, and hoped he should be favoured to improve by 
 it. This was cause of renewed encouragement to me, it having 
 been trying thus to be detained in this place. 
 
 " Ninth Month 5th. — To Joseph Shotwell's at Rahway, and 
 feel myself a poor exercised servant, not knowing for what I came 
 here again, but am favoured with peace of mind, the great blessing 
 
1789.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 45 
 
 promised by our Lord himself to his devoted followers : soul wait 
 in patience. On First-day, the 6th, I attended two large meet- 
 ings, and in the close of the day was made thankfully to rejoice. 
 On the 7th, appointed a meeting for those of other religious deno- 
 minations, and which was a laborious one to me. 
 
 " 9th. — Went to Plainfield meeting, which was also laborious. 
 On the I Oth, to a large and favoured meeting at Railway. On the 
 11th, to an appointed meeting at Elizabeth Town. Here we had 
 some of the heads of the people, and hope this meeting was to 
 some profit ; the governor being at it, kindly invited me to go 
 home with him and was very friendly. Dined with a friendly 
 tavern-keeper, who with much affection, entertained a number of 
 us, and after dinner we were favoured to partake together of a 
 measure of that which exceeds outward bread. 
 
 "12th. — Attended an appointed meeting in the court-house at 
 Amboy, which was large, and I thought a solid good time. Had 
 an exercising time at the tavern where we left our horses ; thanks 
 be to him who is ever worthy, for the strength vouchsafed to 
 relieve my mind amongst a company of wild youth and others ; 
 and 0 ! the thankfulness of heart I now feel, under a sense of the 
 Lord's goodness in thus preserving me through this one more 
 weighty and arduous week's work. 
 
 " \3th. — Attended two large meetings in Rahway ; and in the 
 morning was favoured, I thought, with much strength and ease to 
 unburthen my mind ; but that in the afternoon, was laborious. A 
 large number of Friends came to our lodgings in the evening, and 
 hope it proved an opportunity to be remembered in a future day 
 by some of us. My soul desires to lie prostrate before the Lord, 
 that I may do nothing to mar his blessed work, — feeling much 
 jealousy and fear on my own account : ever keep thy poor servant, 
 0 Lord ! in a sense that thou art good and I myself am blind. 
 
 " 1 5th. — Went to an appointed meeting held at Newark court- 
 house ; which was large, and appeared to be to general satisfac- 
 tion ; it being the time of the sitting of the court, the judges were 
 so respectful and kind as to adjourn to a public-house to accom- 
 modate the meeting, and several of the lawyers came to it. 
 
 u 16th. — To an appointed meeting at a place called Westfield, 
 where there never had been a Friends' meeting ; it was held at the 
 house of Dr. Elmore, who not only opened his house, but we had 
 reason to believe his heart also was opened, and it proved a time 
 to general satisfaction : the priest of the place attended, and in the 
 presence of a number of his hearers owned the doctrine delivered. 
 
46 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1792. 
 
 " Mill. — To the Monthly Meeting at Rahway, which proved 
 an open comforting time. 
 
 " IHth — Waiting to see with clearness which way to move — 
 feeling much peace and comfort on looking back, and remembering 
 the supporting hand of the Lord that has been with me and up- 
 held in the arduous labours in and around this place." 
 
 " I thank thee for thy mercies past, 
 And humbly hope for more." 
 
 After this he returned through New Brunswick and Stony Brook, 
 and reached his residence on the 21st, in peace, for which he says, 
 " Thanks be to him who is ever worthy thereof." 
 
 From the 22nd of the Ninth Month to the 1 1th of Tenth 
 Month, he spent at home, attending the Yearly Meeting and 
 looking after his outward affairs. 
 
 From the 11th of Tenth Month to the 18th of the Eleventh 
 Month, he was engaged in visiting the meetings belonging to 
 Iladdonfield and Woodbury Quarterly Meetings, and between 
 this and Tenth Month, 1791, performed several little journeys to 
 Quarterly Meetings. In the Tenth Month, 1791, accompanied 
 by his friend John Pemberton, he visited Shrewsbury Quarterly 
 Meeting, and a number of families at a place called the Branch ; 
 and in the latter end of the First Month, 1792, again attended 
 Shrewsbury Quarterly Meeting, visited families at Deal and 
 Poplar Swamp, and appointed several meetings in and about that 
 neighbourhood. He then parted from John Pemberton, and taking 
 the Monthly Meetings in his way, beginning at Upper Spring- 
 field, went as far as Cohansey ; in which journey he met with 
 some singular occurrences, as often heretofore ; " through which," 
 says he, " the Lord supported my exercised soul unto the end, 
 and favoured me to get home to my family in peace. I went 
 forth weeping and in great strippedness and poverty, and yet was 
 favoured to discharge my religious duty in such a manner, as to 
 return with sweet peace. 0 Lord ! my gracious helper, favour 
 me still in my passage through life, with thy light to enlighten 
 and guide my steps. Returned home on Third day of Third 
 Month, 1792." 
 
 Extracts from a letter written while on this journey to his 
 family, dated Poplar Swamp, Second Month 4th, 1792. 
 
 " I left you in great weakness as I expressed ; and my going 
 forth was I knew not whither, and to receive the inheritance of 
 
1792.J 
 
 MKMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERCOOP. 
 
 47 
 
 poace, I knew not when. I have rejoiced heretofore in sitting 
 down with you, and parting under a solemn covering of divine 
 love, — but at this time I saw little but to go forth, and so I left 
 my home, committing you all, with myself, to the keeping of the 
 good Shepherd, who puts his servants forth and goes before them, 
 and provides all things convenient, — and all this in faith, without 
 much prospect of service. I received a small portion of encourage- 
 ment in a parting opportunity at James Thornton's ; on taking 
 a view of his diligent labours in the gospel in younger life, when 
 of ability, who now is rendered unfit for travelling by infirmity 
 of body ; in the revival of those expressions of a primitive labourer 
 in the same blessed work and calling ; ' Our rejoicing is this, the 
 testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, 
 not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God we have had our 
 conversation in the world.' Very simple, poor and destitute I 
 often felt whilst with you, when weaning from the breast of this 
 world, and preparing to leave all that is near and dear in life, 
 to follow the leadings of that good hand, which has, in adorable 
 mercy, plucked me as a brand from the burning ; and redeemed 
 my soul from the pit of destruction and misery. When 1 am thus 
 separated from you, fervent have been the desires of my soul, that 
 he who leads his poor servants forth to war a good warfare, under 
 his safe conduct, may be with those who stay by the stuff." 
 
 Extract from a letter to Hannah Cathrall, dated " John 
 Wistars, Salem, N. J., Second Month 23rd, 1792." 
 
 " I received thy encouraging lines this afternoon, on my way 
 from Alloway"s Creek to this place, and thought I would inform 
 thee how acceptable they were to me, a poor exercised traveller. 
 They brought into remembrance thy sympathy with me whilst I 
 was in New England, at a time when I thought I stood in need of 
 such remembrance. My path is singular when abroad, and with 
 reverent thankfulness I may acknowledge, that strength has been 
 graciously afforded me in every trying and needful season, — and 
 some such I have met with in this journey. I left my own habi- 
 tation very poor in mind — indeed I felt in this copdition when my 
 friends set me at liberty, and could but admire at the cheerfulness 
 which appeared in some minds to do so. 
 
 " I do not recollect that any testimony of approbation which 
 dropped from the lips of any of my dear friends in that low season, 
 has proved more of a refreshing cordial, than a few expressions 
 which were uttered by dear E. H. What a small portion of 
 
48 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1792. 
 
 bread, if really bread, and sanctified and blessed, is truly nourish- 
 ing and refreshing. 
 
 " Therefore, beloved sister, there is abundant reason for humble 
 hope, that in present provings and succeeding conflicts, he who is 
 Lord in Zion will furnish the necessary qualification. Be therefore 
 strong, let not thy hands be slack. How often have I wished that 
 strength might be the girdle of thy exercised mind, with respect 
 to the fulfilment of thy duty in the line of the ministry of peace 
 and reconciliation. Dost thou not undoubtedly believe that a gift, 
 received from the great and bountiful Giver of all good and perfect 
 gifts, will prosper in every turning of it? 0 ! then, dear friend, let 
 us follow it closer ; let us say with devotion of heart, ' draw me 
 and I will run after thee,' not waiting for great manifestations, or 
 tempting our divine Master with saying, ' show us a sign,' — but 
 rather let our language be, only condescend to show me that the 
 requiring is from thee, the Lord my God, my heavenly Prophet, 
 and I will follow thee whithersoever thou art pleased to lead. 
 Mayst thou be the companion of such as these. How many are there 
 up and down in the land, who would rejoice and be refreshed, in 
 the exercise of that precious gift and talent conferred on thee, my 
 sister ? — therefore let not him who bringeth in strong reasonings, 
 have place for a moment ; but exercise that faith which removes 
 mountains out of the way — making them at times to skip like 
 rams, and the little hills like lambs, that thus we may do our 
 day's work in the day time." 
 
1702.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTEHGOOD 
 
 49 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 1792, 1793 PROCEEDS ON A VISIT TO SOME OF THE SOUTHERN 
 
 STATES — HIS RELIGIOUS ENGAGEMENTS IN VIRGINIA AND NORTH 
 
 CAROLINA EXTRACTS FROM SOME OF HIS LETTERS WRITTEN FROM 
 
 THE SOUTHERN STATES INTERESTING CASE OF CONVINCEMENT AND 
 
 ESTABLISHMENT OF A MEETING RELIGIOUS SERVICE IN SOUTH 
 
 CAROLINA AND GEORGIA INSTANCES OF ZEALOUS EFFORT TO PRO- 
 MOTE THE HOLDING OF MEETINGS ADDRESSES A COMPANY OF NEGROES 
 
 WHILST TRAVELLING ON HORSEBACK. 
 
 His mind having being exercised with a prospect of paying a 
 religious visit to Friends and others in the Southern States, in the 
 Fourth Month, 1792, he obtained certificates of the unity of his 
 Monthly and Quarterly Meetings, and soon after proceeded to per- 
 form it. From the memorandums made during the journey, the 
 following are extracted, viz : — 
 
 " Fifth Month 20th, 1792. — Left my habitation, after first sitting 
 down, and being favoured with a comfortable opportunity with 
 my family and several Friends, who came to take leave of me, 
 and accompanied by a number of Friends went to the house of my 
 companion, Josiah Bunting at Darby, and attended that meeting, 
 which proved a strengthening one. 
 
 " 21st. — This morning sat down with a number of Friends, and 
 were favoured with another confirming opportunity, and a sense 
 that we were in the line of Divine appointment. 
 
 " 22nd. — To the youths' 1 meeting at London Grove, and lodged 
 at Joshua Pusey's. Here we met with our dear friend Sarah 
 Harrison, from whom we parted in near regard, not expecting to 
 see each other again for a considerable length of time, she being 
 shortly to embark for England.'' He then attended Sadsbury 
 Monthly Meeting, meetings at Yorktown, and the Quarterly 
 Meeting at Pipe Creek ; — " in all which," says he, " I was 
 favoured with something to communicate ; and it has been a time 
 of humiliation with me since I left home — feeling a strong current 
 of affection at times prevalent, toward those I have left there, and 
 the length of my present journey closely affecting; but the Lord 
 is good and bears up my spirit. 
 
 " 30th. — To the week-day meeting at this place, wherein I was 
 led in an encouraging line, particularly to the youth. 
 
50 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1792. 
 
 " 31st. — To Bush Creek meeting which was large, and a 
 number of other societies collected, to whom my mind was 
 drawn forth in gospel love. 
 
 " Sixth Month 1st. — To Fairfax, stopping by the way at Richard 
 Richardson's, and whilst sitting with them, I had to look back and 
 remember the time I was there with Samuel Emlen and George 
 Dillwyn, and the deep sorrow I waded under; but this was a 
 different dispensation, wherein Jacob's acknowledgment, through 
 adorable mercy was mine, and I had to mention it, ' The Lord 
 was in this place and I knew it not.' 
 
 " 3rd. — To Fairfax meeting, and although it was silent through- 
 out, and painful and exercising in the fore part, the latter part 
 thereof was a sweet time of renewing my own strength, wherein my 
 dear wife and family, and very particularly my dear aged mother, 
 were brought into remembrance with fervent prayer on her 
 account ; and the length and breadth of the land was opened 
 before me, with animating strength of mind to follow my great 
 and good Shepherd." 
 
 Extract of a letter, dated Fairfax, Sixth Month 4th, 1 792. 
 
 " I have not doubted the fitness of my leaving home, neither 
 the time nor the getting along so far, although I travel in the 
 usual poverty and blindness from day to day ; yet am at seasons 
 comforted in the hope of being favoured to journey forward, so as 
 to secure the best of treasures, which is peace. It is not the large- 
 ness of the offering, neither thousands of rams, nor ten thousands 
 of rivers of oil; it is not barely giving the first-born, or surrender- 
 ing wife and children and all, but continuing in the Lord's will, 
 subjectly given up thereto, from day to day, which I have found 
 to be my sanctification. May the same good hand which hath led 
 forth and preserved me in a state of resignation, be with thee my 
 dear companion, and support and succour in the needful time. 
 My heart at seasons when looking toward my dear family has been 
 broken within me, and secret breathings have arisen to the 
 Strength of Israel, for your protection and help as for my own, in 
 this widely extended journey." 
 
 » 6th. — To South Fork meeting ; the house could not hold near 
 all the people, and though there appeared much rawness, yet 
 strength was given to preach the word to some good effect, and 
 we left them in peace. 
 
1792.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 51 
 
 " nh, — To Goose Creek meeting, which was an arousing search- 
 ing time, and I had peace. 
 
 " 9th. — To the Quarterly Meeting of ministers and elders, 
 which was a close time, but was favoured with peace. 
 
 " 10th, First-day. — Had an open good meeting, as was also the 
 meeting for business on the 11th. 
 
 " 12th. — The youths 1 meeting was large, and an open relieving 
 time to me. I believe the Lord, who is worthy of all praise, 
 was near with a visitation of love to the people. Visited a num- 
 ber of families here, and was at their week-day meeting, which 
 was an exercising time, under a sense of the low state of things, 
 but strength was afforded, after a time of waiting, to labour 
 honestly for the good of the members, particularly the airy youth. 
 Whilst we were sitting with a family and some other Friends in 
 the evening, a few expressions impressed my mind, respecting the 
 care of youth, and timely stretching the line of discipline over 
 transgressors. When I ceased speaking, my mind did not feel 
 relieved, and it appeared to me that there were near the house some 
 of a different class from those I had been addressing, and on opening 
 the front door, found the porch and steps round about crowded with 
 most of the young people of this licentious little village, and it 
 afforded an opportunity greatly to relieve my mind, and so went 
 home to our lodgings in peace. 
 
 " \4?th. — To the Gap meeting, which proved a very open time ; 
 my mind was affected in beholding the people along the road 
 going to meeting, as well as in the house, it not being large 
 enough to contain them by much : left this place in peace. 
 
 " \5th. — To Bullskin meeting, which, after the expectations 
 of the people were starved, proved through Divine help, an open 
 good time ; a number of strangers being at it. 
 
 "17tfA. — To a large meeting at Hopewell, which was low and 
 discouraging in the fore part, but through favour ended more 
 solidly and well ; next day after a comfortable sitting with 
 the family of children where we lodged, set off to go over the 
 mountains. 
 
 " 23rd. — To the Monthly Meeting of Redstone, in which I was 
 silent until near the close of that for business ; and then after a 
 season of painful conflict, I was favoured to relieve my mind in a 
 remarkably close line ; and to my admiration it proved a baptizing 
 season, and I trust through the fresh extension of heavenly regard, 
 brought a remnant near one to another : thanks be given to him 
 who is worthy of the praise of his own work. 
 
 e 2 
 
52 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1792. 
 
 " 24>th — To Redstone meeting, which was large, and after a 
 season of waiting, I stood up with an opening, which appeared 
 mostly for people of other persuasions, as there seemed to be 
 pretty many there, but found it hard work to get along, and at 
 length all closed up. In this condition I quietly sat down, and 
 passed the meeting through in silence. In the afternoon met 
 with a committee appointed in the Monthly Meeting yesterday. 
 
 " 25th. — A morning of close conflict, wherein all seemed closed 
 up. I could not see it right to appoint a meeting ; but in a 
 season of inward retirement was favoured with resignation to my 
 lot, and after strewing a few tears was a little easier. 
 
 " 26th. — A morning of renewed exercise : no way opening to 
 move forward, which was trying indeed, when I considered the 
 length of my journey from home. Surely I had failed, if a secret 
 hope had not been granted that I should yet behold the goodness 
 of the Lord in the land of the living. In this proving state, 
 A. W. proposed to leave us and visit his daughter, as no prospect 
 of service seemed to open ; and almost immediately on his 
 mentioning his thoughts, there appeared a little ray of light 
 arising toward two meetings on that side the river, and I found 
 liberty in my mind to send word to Friends, and only Friends, to 
 get together at Fallowfield to-morrow, and on Sixth-day, at 
 Westland. 
 
 " 27th. — Crossed the river to Fallowfield meeting, which was 
 a laborious one. I sat nearly, or quite two hours before I could 
 stand up ; but it ended well, after which I was much depressed. 
 Went home with Mary England and lodged. 
 
 " 29th. — Crossed the river again to Westland meeting, — 
 stopped by the way to see a sick friend, which with some de- 
 tention at the ferry caused us to be rather late. The fore part of 
 the meeting was trying to me, although on my first sitting down 
 there seemed something good spreading. I sat nearly two hours 
 before I felt the revival of that which would enable me to minister 
 to the people, but it was vouchsafed in the Lord's time, which 
 may my soul be more and more engaged to wait for. It was 
 thought to be a good meeting and ended comfortably. 
 
 "30i?A. — Went to Redstone meeting, where I was favoured to 
 relieve my mind in a close but tender manner, and returned with 
 a good degree of peace ; and after a religious opportunity with a 
 number of Friends, went towards a little meeting near Beeson- 
 town, with resignation to the Divine will, either to go on toward 
 the Alleghany, or to labour further in this laud. 
 
1792.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 53 
 
 " Seventh Month 1st. — This morning walked out into tlio field 
 and woods, and had to commemorate the Lord's goodness and 
 love, wherein my dear wife was brought into remembrance. O 
 Lord ! my soul reverences thy name, in that thou art pleased to 
 accept the feeble efforts of an unworthy servant, who desires to 
 thank thee for thy mercies past, and humbly to hope for the con- 
 tinuance of them, through this trying journey. Be pleased to 
 remember my dear family and friends left behind ; — graciously be 
 near to my dear help-meet and my aged mother. 0 Lord ! look 
 down in tender mercy on my dear children. Went to this little 
 meeting, held in a cabin about sixteen feet square, without a 
 window in it, and a very warm day ; but through mercy it proved 
 a good time. After dinner, my mind was closely exercised to 
 know what step to take next, and towards evening was easy to go 
 to Beesontown ; this night was a wakeful conflicting one. 
 
 " 2nd. — Thoughtfully exercised to feel my way in this land : 
 after breakfast, taking a walk abroad, and seeing the reapers in 
 the field of our landlord, (who is a Presbyterian, but his wife and 
 several of the children of our Society,) my mind was turned toward 
 them in gospel love, and when they came in to their breakfast and 
 had done, I requested that they, together with this large family 
 would sit down quietly with me, and to my humble rejoicing, I 
 had a good time with them, from these words of Boaz to his 
 reapers, 'The Lord be with you;' and they replied, and ' may 
 the Lord bless thee.' I now felt easy to leave these parts, having 
 laboured with much honesty and plainness amongst them ; and 
 after dinner, we rode to Samuel Morton's, in the Alleghany moun- 
 tain, a place called Sandy Creek Glades, where there are a few 
 families of Friends and a little meeting, — a more wilderness, 
 desolate road or path, I think I have not travelled. We got in 
 after night, and they kindly entertained us. 
 
 " 3rd. — I went to the little meeting, held in a cabin about two 
 miles off; in as wild a place, I think, as ever I was in. In the 
 fore part of it, my mind was led to view the situation of our first 
 parents, both before and after their sorrowful fall, how the ground 
 was cursed because of man's disobedience, — and that though they 
 were few in number, yet they were favoured with a merciful con- 
 descending God to converse with and instruct them. The wilder- 
 ness and solitary place surely must have been glad and rejoiced 
 at such a time as this. And O ! gladdening thought, that the 
 Lord is the same to-day as then, and remains so for ever. Praise 
 him, 0 my soul ! We went home with our friend John Smith, 
 
54 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTET5GOOD. 
 
 [17.02. 
 
 five miles, by a lonely path through woods and glades ; and on 
 parting from them, the great Lord of the universe refreshed our 
 souls with living food from heaven — I have not often seen moro 
 brokenness ; and they remain as epistles yet to be read at this 
 time. 
 
 "11$. — Poorly this morning; the weather close and warm, 
 which tries my poor feeble frame. Inward provings also at- 
 tendant, and the life of religion low. 0 ! that I may be preserved 
 as well as those I have left behind, from being swept away with 
 the strong current in this day of outward ease. My prayers have 
 been put up this morning for myself and dear wife. Lord keep 
 us near to thee, the fountain of strength, and support in all trials 
 of faith and confidence. Went to the Ridge meeting, held in a 
 school house, wherein I had close things to say, but humbly trust 
 I was in my place. Had an increase of inward conflicts, but was 
 favoured with a comfortable night's rest, and in the morning 
 (12th) with a degree of the overshadowing of the wing of divine 
 love, in a sitting with this family before we parted ; and on the 
 road to a meeting called Tuscarora, felt brokenness of heart, which 
 seemed as a preparation for cross-bearing afterward, both in the 
 meeting, in which I was silent, and after it was over. 
 
 " 1 3th. — To Middle Creek meeting, which was made up, as I 
 found afterward, by a number of other societies, and it proved 
 an open, and I trust, through divine favour, a baptizing time in 
 the latter part. 
 
 "18th. — To Crooked Run, a large, mixed, and open meeting ; in 
 the close of which received a request from a Methodist to have a 
 meeting in a town called Font Royal, about six miles off, to 
 which after solidly weighing it, we consented. 
 
 " 19th. — To the meeting at Font Royal, which was held in an 
 unfinished Methodist Meeting-house; it was hard work to preach 
 amongst them, and although life did not rise into such dominion 
 as could have been desired, during the greater part of the 
 meeting, yet it was thought to end solidly ; and their preacher 
 after meeting, came and taking me by the hand, owned the 
 testimony delivered. 
 
 " 20th. — After a remarkable opportunity with J. F.'s family, 
 set off and stopped at a poor man's house, with whom and his 
 wife and eight children, we had a religious opportunity. 
 
 " 21st. — A poor night's rest, and unwell this morning. 0 ! 
 what a poor feeble creature I am, to move forward altogether 
 amongst strangers. This day, a sore and long fit of sickness I 
 
1702.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OK THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 55 
 
 had some years before, came humblingly into view, and my 
 covenant then made to serve and follow the Lord, even to the 
 end of the land. Lord send forth thy light and thy truth ; let 
 them lead me, let them guide me. Thou canst raise out of 
 weakness and sickness into strength and health. I hope and 
 trust in thee. 
 
 " 22nd. — Went to meeting, which was an open time, and 
 after it felt comfortable. 
 
 " 23rd. — At Evan Thomas' ; and it being a rainy day, stayed 
 mostly within doors ; as in the outward, so in the inward, it 
 seemed a cloudy, dull time. Attempted after dinner to set off 
 and move forward ; but after sitting down with the family under 
 a painful cloud, in which I found nothing to say, had no liberty 
 to move. Wait in patience, 0 my soul ! 
 
 " 2ith. — After breakfast sat down with this family, and was 
 favoured to relieve my mind of an exercise which lay on it." 
 
 After visiting several families, he remarks ; " My mind was 
 sweetly comforted on the road after the opportunity at the last 
 house ; but 0 ! the baptism I had to pass through on account of 
 this family, in the evening, night and morning ; but found an 
 opportunity to relieve my mind in a serious opportunity, and 
 then moved on toward the old settled parts of Virginia. We 
 missed our road and got lost, and about one o'clock came to a 
 house in a lonely place, where we sat down contentedly, as has been 
 the case frequently, and ate our cake with some butter and milk. 
 In the evening, we got over the Blue Mountain, at Rockfish Gap, 
 to a friendly man's, where we were kindly entertained for pay ; 
 and in the morning, when about to set off, took a serious oppor- 
 tunity with him, wife and some of the family, much to my own 
 comfort, and it appeared to be to their satisfaction, and so moved 
 forward in peace. Yesterday, crossed six or seven considerable 
 waters ; and in the evening, reached John Douglass', near Douglass' 
 meeting : poor, exercised travellers, what need we have of faith 
 and patience. 
 
 *' 27th. — To meeting, and for a time I was almost ready to 
 conclude we might leave them as we found them, so little was to 
 be felt ; but in the latter part, strength was given honestly to 
 discharge myself, and felt peaceful and easy. On our road after- 
 ward, my soul praised the Lord for the extension of his arm of pro- 
 tection and deliverance, for of late it has been a time of sore trial. 
 Had a comfortable ride, and when we arrived at E. J.'s, he came 
 and affectionately saluted us, and gave us such a hearty welcome, 
 
56 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1792. 
 
 poor pilgrims as we were, that it was truly comfortable ; for which 
 I am thankful whilst penning this under his roof ; and yet desire 
 to rejoice with becoming fear, seeing how good mortification, 
 poverty and abasement prove, when rightly submitted to and lived 
 under." 
 
 In a letter dated Seventh Month 30th, after speaking of a meet- 
 ing which he held on the 19 th, he says : — 
 
 " This is the first meeting out from amongst Friends, and hope 
 Truth was not dishonoured thereby; but it is not the line of service 
 I have been led in, and am ready to think sometimes may not be 
 much so in the course of this visit. My cup seems full toward 
 our own professors ; and if my religious communications are not 
 in all places so large as in some visits amongst other people, I 
 think my cup of suffering, in and under a sight and sense of Zion's 
 desolate state, is as large as ever I experienced ; but the Lord, my 
 Helper, has been kind beyond expression, and in a sense of it, 
 at seasons we can say, we lack nothing. * * * * 
 The way to have got over much ground, and made quick dispatch 
 in the visit, I suppose would have been to pursue our route up the 
 country to South River, and from thence to New Garden, and also 
 the way to have breathed a more pure outward air back of the 
 mountains ; but that road was shut up, and a little light shone 
 this way into a sickly country, and at a sickly season. Times and 
 seasons, health and sickness, life and death, are with the ever gra- 
 cious Helper of all that trust in him ; and having put my (or our) 
 hands to his plough, we may not look back, and I may again say, 
 with thankfulness of heart, I rejoice that I am favoured with such 
 a true yoke-mate in the various dipping seasons to be met with. 
 
 " Eighth Month 1st. — To Black Creek meeting ; a mournful 
 time, under a sense of the low state of the church. 
 
 " 3rd. — Had a religious opportunity, in which some of the poor 
 negroes came near the door, and my speech was turned toward 
 them ; they wept, and I was comforted in the belief that the 
 visitation of God's love was towards them. Leaving them in this 
 tender frame of mind, we went to the preparative meeting, held at 
 White Oak Swamp. 
 
 " 7th. — To Wain Oak week-day meeting ; and notice having 
 been given in the neighbourhood, it was pretty large, and thought 
 to be profitable ; had a serious opportunity in the family where we 
 dined, with a number of neighbours who stopped ; went on to 
 Skimino, and stopped at a friendly man's and lodged. 
 
1792.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTETIGOOD, 
 
 57 
 
 " 8th. — To Skimino week-day meeting ; which was large, and 
 an open tendering season, which had a tendency to brace me up a 
 little. 
 
 " 9th. — To James 1 River ; this was an exceedingly close warm 
 night, and trying to my weak frame, but I humbly hope all will 
 work together for my good, as resignation to the Divine will is 
 laboured after. 
 
 " 10th. — Spent the morning of this day in a comfortable degree 
 of quiet, after a tossing night, and feel desirous [that] my love 
 may increase to my dear Lord and Master, who has led me forth 
 in his work. 
 
 " l\th. — Spent the morning of this day in a quiet sweetness; 
 went to the Quarterly Meeting of ministers and elders, held at 
 Black Water, which was a comfortable open time. 
 
 " 12th. — To a large and mixed meeting ; the weather continuing 
 exceedingly warm, with the addition of very close exercise and 
 religious labour, affected me much ; my appetite failing ; but the 
 Lord being good and gracious to me, I was favoured with ease of 
 mind, and in the afternoon also was helped to discharge my religious 
 duty towards both white and black of this family and others, 
 although to the spending of my bodily strength. 
 
 "13th. — To the Quarterly Meeting; found Friends in the 
 practice of discouraging all but members attending on this dav ; 
 we did not sit long before the business of the meeting was opened, 
 and in the meantime I was favoured with a comforting season 
 amongst them, and also in the meeting for business. I relieved 
 my mind much to my comfort and satisfaction, and trust to the 
 edification of my brethren ; and in the evening a solid opportunity 
 in the family of A. Bailey. 
 
 " 14$. — Set off, accompanied by Jesse Copeland and Benjamin 
 Pretlow, to the Western Branch ; a long trying ride, and no 
 house to stop at but the meeting, which, although laborious in the 
 beginning, ended comfortably. 
 
 " 15^. — To Bennett's Creek, where was a mixed large meeting, 
 and an open time. In the afternoon returned to a meeting held in 
 Suffolk Court-house, where I sat almost two hours in silence, and 
 was thankful for preservation ; and although no mighty works 
 were done, I was glad in feeling the good and preserving hand 
 near. Near the close had a little to communicate to the inhabi- 
 tants, and, before the meeting ended, to the poor African race in 
 particular, a number of them being there ; and left the place in 
 peace. 
 
MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1792. 
 
 " 16^. — We went to Summerton meeting, which was large, the 
 house not containing the people by many, and a pretty open time. 
 
 " 17th. — A cold night, and this morning sat by the fire. To 
 Johnson's meeting, where the expectations of the people appeared 
 great. I sat nearly two hours in silence, and had but a painful 
 season at last. 
 
 " 18th. — To the widow Vick's, to the meeting held in her house, 
 which was large and open. 
 
 " 1 9 ^ /* . — To Black Creek, where we found a large mixed gather- 
 ing of people, more than the house could hold, and through the 
 extension of Divine strength, was a good meeting. 
 
 " 20th. — To Stanton meeting, to which came many people, as 
 has been the case for several days past ; and the weather was hot, 
 and the house close and crowded, and numbers out of doors ; yet 
 I may not forbear recording the goodness of Israel's Shepherd, 
 who was as near to help this day as heretofore. May praise be ren- 
 dered unto him for this, and for the preservation of my poor weak 
 body through heat and cold, watchings and fastings ; even to him 
 who preserves his servants in burning climes and lands remote, 
 and supports them by his care. With reverence I bow, in remem- 
 bering that man is not to live by bread alone, but by every word 
 that proceeds out of the mouth of God. 0 dearest Master ! pre- 
 serve me in watchfulness and humble thankfulness for thy favours 
 past and present. 
 
 " 21st. — A trying night, and felt unwell this morning, with but 
 little appetite. Went to the meeting called Seconk, which was 
 crowded, the house not being large enough to contain the people ; 
 and O ! how mercifully near was the Lord my God, furnishing 
 with strength to clear myself of the people ; there being a large 
 collection of youth, and also others from different meetings ; and 
 after it was over, parted from divers of them with brokenness. In 
 this day's work I have been wonderfully supported, seeing I was 
 so weak this morning. 
 
 " 2ith. — To Micajah Crew's; and for the favour of being per- 
 mitted to arrive again at this kind friend's house, through such 
 arduous labour as I have experienced since Black Water Quarterly 
 Meeting, I feel thankful, and recruited in bodily health and 
 strength. 
 
 " 26th. — To the select Quarterly Meeting at Cedar Creek, which 
 was a uniting season ; and at eleven o'clock, to a very large and 
 mixed meeting, wherein the Gospel of peace was preached, and 
 through its prevailing many were reached and tendered, and my 
 
1792.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS 6C ATTERGOOO. 
 
 59 
 
 mind relieved and comforted. Let the praise and honour of this 
 day's work be rendered unto the Lord, who is a present helper in 
 the time of need. 
 
 " 27th. — To the Quarterly Meeting for business, which began 
 at ten o'clock, and held until near six. This was nearly select, and 
 an open time in the meeting for worship, especially toward the 
 youth, and I hope throughout it was a meeting to be remembered. 
 
 " 29th and 30^. — Spent these two days in an emptied state, 
 seeing no way open to move ; and it has been a time of renewal of 
 outward health and strength, after such close labour in the heat of 
 the weather; it being now, and for a week past, cool and pleasant. 
 
 '■'■Ninth Month \st. — My mind was exercised this morning, not 
 knowing which way to move, or what to do. 0 ! what need is 
 there of patience in such stripping seasons. After dinner set oft' 
 in much weakness toward Genito meeting, accompanied by our 
 kind friend Micajah Crew. 
 
 " 2nd. — To Genito meeting; and no notice being given, it was 
 small, but I was comforted in my present poor state therein. 
 Prayed for my dear wife, mother and children, and was favoured 
 with a small opening to move forward ; and after dinner had a 
 little to communicate to a number of young people of the family, 
 and others who came to see us. 
 
 " 3rd. — Set off on our journey, and crossed James' River, and 
 stayed all night at S. Pleasants', where we were favoured with a 
 precious opportunity, and I had a sweet refreshing night. A 
 measure of the same sweetness and love covered our minds on 
 parting this morning, and the savour thereof remained with me 
 for some time. Ate our dinners on the road, and in the evening 
 arrived at our friend J. Johnson's, at Amelia. 
 
 " 5th. — We were most easy to see the two or three families of 
 Friends together, in their tattered meeting-house, with an earthen 
 floor, an habitation for hogs ; and although I went in weakness, the 
 presence of Him who took up his abode in a stable and a manger 
 (there being no room in the inn) was near, and favoured not only 
 with strength to preach the Gospel to a few, but with a renewed 
 prospect that the time will come that the wise will be confounded 
 in their earthly wisdom, and, weary of it, will be prevailed upon 
 to follow Christ Jesus, the light of the world ; even so be it in the 
 Lord's time. 
 
 " 6th. — We rode to an inn and lodged. Ate some provisions 
 we had with us in a poor house by the way, and had some religious 
 conversation with the woman, and set off well refreshed. 
 
GO 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1792. 
 
 " 9th. — To Seneca meeting, which was held in a loir building 
 without a window in it. A close, hot time, as to the outward, 
 and, in an inward respect, very little good to be felt amongst the 
 people, either within or out of doors ; but being helped through 
 my close and laborious exercise, it proved at the close a solid 
 refreshing time, I hope, to more than myself. Went home with 
 11. B. and dined : here was but poor outward accommodations, 
 which to the flesh was trying ; but, on parting, was favoured with 
 a precious opportunity with parents and children. 
 
 " 15th. — To South River Monthly Meeting, which held until 
 almost night, and was a satisfactory time. 
 
 " 1 6th. — To a meeting at the above mentioned place, which was 
 large and favoured ; I felt great unworthiness, but the Lord was 
 merciful; went home with Joseph Anthony to a town called 
 Lynchburg. 
 
 " 17th. — Here we tarried until about noon, and several Friends 
 came a number of miles to see us. We sat down together with the 
 family, and I trust it proved an instructive time. We rode this 
 day to a public-house about twenty-seven miles. Ate our dinners 
 by the roadside, were well refreshed, and in the evening my 
 heavenly Master refreshed my soul in a plentiful manner. 
 
 " 18th. — This morning on parting we requested a religious 
 opportunity with the family, which was readily granted and 
 proved a baptizing season, there being several other travellers with 
 us, among whom two goodly Virginia gentlemen of some distinc- 
 tion ; after which I had great peace, — the Lord be praised therefor. 
 
 " 19th. — After some edifying conversation with our host this 
 morning, we rode to C. L.'s, and next day after a baptizing oppor- 
 tunity with him and wife, and also visiting the school, which I 
 believe was satisfactory to the master, though not a Friend ; we 
 parted affectionately, and went home with our kind friend Samuel 
 Parsons, who has been acceptably with us in this tour since we 
 left his house. 
 
 " 25th. — I feel like a poor creature this morning : nothing pre- 
 senting with clearness to my mind, and this staying in one place 
 looks much like loitering away time, — but time is the Lord's and 
 his time is the best. O ! my soul wait patiently for it, and when 
 again opened into service be simply obedient. After breakfast 
 walked abroad, and a prospect opened on my mind to visit a family 
 and to appoint a meeting at S. Pleasants 1 house at noon to-morrow. 
 On our informing our friend Thomas Pleasants, it was readily 
 complied with, and he accompanied us to S. C.'s, where we were 
 
1792.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 61 
 
 favoured with a baptizing season together ; and next day wont over 
 the river to the meeting held in S. Pleasants' mill, which was 
 large : but I did not find that relief and satisfaction of mind which 
 I have in somo places ; although the people appeared goodly and 
 behaved solidly. 
 
 " 27th. — Went to Genito week-day meeting under close exercise 
 of mind, and as we entered the house found it almost filled up with 
 people, which was unexpected, not knowing how they got notice, 
 or what induced so many of them to come together. Great still- 
 ness prevailed, and my mind was so much humbled as to bring mo 
 on my knees, after which I was favoured with an open time in 
 testimony. The Lord be praised for his goodness. 
 
 " 28th. — A night of exercise, and feel poor, blind, and un- 
 worthy this morning ; no way opening to move forward. O ! what 
 a great thing it is to keep always shod with the preparation of 
 the gospel of peace, and not to transgress or break the least tittle 
 of the law. Truly I may not boast. 
 
 " 80th. — To Genito meeting, which was pretty large, considering 
 there is a yearly meeting of the Baptists 1 Society within six miles. 
 It proved an open relieving time ; went home with Samuel Parsons, 
 — took our farewell, and came back with our kind friend Thomas 
 Pleasants, where we met with a hearty welcome, and my spirit 
 was set a little more at liberty, in a hope that way may open in 
 the morning to leave this neighbourhood. 
 
 " Tenth Month 1st. — I feel this morning as though we miuht 
 be released out of this place, and know not that there is one stone 
 left unturned with regard to any one. 0 ! that the Lord may bless 
 the labour he has bestowed instrumentally on individuals, to their 
 growth in the ever blessed truth. We left Thomas Pleasants 1 
 after another baptising tendering season, wherein my dear wife 
 and family came into remembrance, and the Lord was prayed unto 
 for the continuance of his strength and love to us who are abroad, 
 and to those left at home, after which set off in comfort and 
 peace, and ' the trees of the field did clap their hands.' We 
 arrived at Richmond before night, and on tho 3rd set off, accompa- 
 nied by Samuel Crouch and Robert Evans, pretty easy in mind, and 
 thankful that we could leave Richmond. Arrived at our friend 
 Robert's before night at Petersburg, who with his wife and children 
 received us with openness, and after they had refreshed our bodies, 
 the Lord condescended to feed and refresh our better part together; 
 and I thought it was worth being shut up a day at Richmond in 
 blindness, and riding this thirty-seven miles for. Went to bed 
 
G2 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1792. 
 
 easy and comfortable, but ray dear companion was taken very 
 unwell in the night which alarmed me. 
 
 " Mh. — Went to Gravelly Run meeting, notice having been sent 
 forward — and it was a season to be remembered by me. I could 
 think of little in the fore part, but returning back to Richmond, to 
 which prospect I cheerfully resigned myself, and was afterwards 
 favoured with an open time in the meeting. We had a remark- 
 able time at the house where we dined, wherein I believe the 
 strong was made to bow before Him whose power was eminently 
 felt, and after it went on peacefully to Petersburg. 
 
 " 7th. — Returned to Richmond and attended a meeting at the 
 capital. We received a respectful letter from the person who 
 occupied the most convenient room, excusing his not giving it up 
 to us, as he was to preach a funeral sermon for a major, on the 
 death of his wife. The meeting was not large at first, and many 
 of those who had gathered were uneasy with silence. I felt willing, 
 after a time, to get up and gently reprove them, and commend the 
 few who kept their seats, and also invite them to come together in 
 the afternoon and bring their neighbours, thinking that would be 
 all that would be required of me to say. But when I began to 
 speak, the people crowded into the house in such a manner, as 
 caused me to pause and consider, whether it would not be best to 
 sit down and recover strength to labour amongst them in the line 
 of the ministry ; but concluded it safest to endeavour to continue 
 speaking, and through favour I was in some degree enabled to 
 relieve my mind, and it was thought Truth arose and spread into 
 some dominion." 
 
 In a letter to Hannah Cathrall, dated " Richmond, Tenth 
 Month, 1792," he says: 
 
 "We came into this place yesterday morning from Robert 
 Pleasants 1 , accompanied by him, and although I feel a care on my 
 mind respecting going too much to, or being too free in the houses 
 of disowned members or others not of our Society, as has ap- 
 peared so open hearted and friendly since our lot has been cast here, 
 I was free to stop at his door, and after meeting came back and lodged. 
 I have thought more of thy lines, since a proving dispensation I 
 had to pass through yesterday, than when I first received them ; 
 and some of thy expressions are as fitly framed as if thou hadst 
 been on the spot. My beloved companion told me last evening, 
 that he thought of the bow and battle-axe mentioned by thee, 
 whilst thy poor friend was exposed amongst a multitude of strangers 
 
1792.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OV THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 63 
 
 in this dissipated city. So it was in Boston, when I was under 
 very deep conflict and exercise of soul, thy words, through favour, 
 were like apples of gold in pictures (or a hasket) of silver. But 
 for all this, hear with me, I have felt at times something rising up 
 in my mind by way of rebuke against thee, under a fear that thou 
 dost not sufficiently avail thyself of that stretched out Hand and 
 Arm, which with such clearness and pertinence thou canst write of 
 to others. I want thee, my dear sister, to fulfil or accomplish thy 
 task in the day time, knowing that the Lord of the harvest has 
 blessed thee with a precious gift. Is thy bodily presence weak and 
 thy speech contemptible amongst the people, or only in thy own 
 opinion I There are many poor children crying for bread in places, 
 and few, very few delegated feeders or shepherds to administer to 
 their wants ; and this thing is not of the Lord of hosts, but I 
 believe for want of unreserved obedience in all things to his blessed 
 will. Therefore it is-, that strangers have to stand and feed their 
 flocks, and the sons of aliens to be for husbandmen and vine 
 dressers. Lift up thine eyes and behold what a field of labour 
 there is ; and although deep are the plungings of the labourers, 
 yet sweet is also, at seasons, their reward ; yea, it is preferable to 
 an earthly crown.' 1 
 
 " Wtli. — Went to Curies meeting, which was small : I felt peace 
 in going, and comfort and satisfaction on sitting down in the meet- 
 ing, in the remembrance, that Truth will remain the same, although 
 all men forsake it. I laboured in weakness and poverty, and 
 although encouragement was held forth to the poor and needy, yet 
 it was afflicting to feel the irreligious spirit that is so prevalent in 
 this neighbourhood. 
 
 " lith. — To a meeting in the Assembly-room in the Town-hall 
 at Richmond, which was large, and we had the company of many 
 Friends from different parts of the country. Dear T. Harris and 
 wife came thirty miles ; and to my great comfort, dear Mary Berry 
 came from Micajah Crew's, at Cedar Creek, twenty-two miles, and 
 arrived after the meeting had nearly gathered. She exercised her 
 gift, both in supplication and testimony, amongst a mixed people, 
 who behaved well, all things considered ; and after it was over we 
 were treated with kindness by several." 
 
 Speaking of this meeting in a letter, after stating that his 
 beloved friend M. B. came in late, he says, " I cannot fully describe 
 the feelings of my exercised mind, when thus favoured with her 
 company, and the help of her spirit. Indeed I felt a degree of 
 
64 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERQOOD. 
 
 [1792. 
 
 shame cover me, in the remembrance of these expressions of the 
 Master, 0 ! ye of little faith, wherefore did ye doubt ; perhaps this 
 was on the sudden appearance or putting forth of his power for- 
 merly. It was a large gathering, in which I was strengthened to 
 stand forth in a good degree, I trust, of innocent boldness, care- 
 fully leaving room and time for this beloved Friend, who appeared 
 in prayer and afterward in testimony. I may with gratitude say, 
 the name of the Lord be magnified for his mercy, and the stretching 
 forth of his arm to help of late. 
 
 " \1th. — To the meeting called Jack's Swamp, the fore part 
 whereof was laborious, under a sense of an infidel unbelieving 
 spirit resisting the truths of the gospel ; and after the meeting for 
 worship ended, I was more confirmed in this belief. However, I 
 had a good time near the close of the preparative meeting with 
 Friends, both men and women, and the meeting ended with 
 brokenness and tears. 
 
 " 22nd. — Got to the Quarterly Meeting for business at Con- 
 tentney, in North Carolina, which held until about sunset. 
 
 " 23rd. — After a comfortable season in parting, set off for the 
 Yearly Meeting, and in the evening were refused admittance at a 
 house of entertainment ; but riding a few miles further, we were 
 taken in at a private house. 
 
 "Eleventh Month 3rd. — The Yearly Meeting of North Carolina 
 held until Seventh-day evening. We lodged at our kind friend 
 Aaron Morris' ; and the last night did not get home until late, 
 owing to one religious service presenting after another. The service 
 of the Yearly Meeting was laborious : a lively spirited remon- 
 strance was drawn up and signed, to be laid before the Assembly, 
 respecting the free black people being taken up and sold again into 
 slavery. The Yearly Meeting was attended by a solid committee 
 from the Yearly Meeting of Virginia, and I trust upon the whole, 
 there was a moving forward in the great work of righteousness. 
 
 " 4th. — This morning awoke early, and my mind was impressed 
 with a prospect, which had at divers times opened, to go toward 
 the Western Quarterly Meeting, and mentioned it to my com- 
 panion, who united with it : so we got ready and set off, after an 
 opportunity with this kind family, and left them with sweetness. 
 Got to Little River meeting, which was a good one, where we met 
 with Mary Berry and her companion." 
 
 The following extracts are taken from a letter written to his 
 wife, dated 
 
1792 ] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 65 
 
 " Si/mous' Creek, North Carolina, Eleventh Month 3rd, 1792. 
 
 " Thou hast often been the companion of my mind, my dear 
 and tender wife, since the receipt of thy last letter, put into my 
 hands at the Yearly Meeting ; in which I discovered that thou 
 wast closely exercised, not only on my behalf, but also on thy own 
 account, when reflecting on the frequent separation, which is our 
 lot in this uncertain world of losses, crosses, and repeated trials. 
 But let us remember that our Maker has declared himself to be 
 our Husband, our gracious Redeemer, the holy One of Israel ; 
 that is, to those who look to him, trust in him, and lean upon his 
 arm of strength and true comfort ; and that he is justly called 
 the God of the whole earth, who unites and knits our hearts to- 
 gether in the covenant of true love. May this still be kept in 
 view by us in this present separation, that so we may be made a 
 savour of life unto life, one to the other. My heart was affected 
 on reading thy lines, and no part of them was more precious to me, 
 than thy prayer for my preservation through the ups and downs 
 which are to be met with. There is frequently an echo of the 
 same language in my heart, and my fervent prayers both in private, 
 and also when favoured with the gift of utterance, have been poured 
 forth for thee, my dear mother, and our children. May thy desire 
 and care increase, in the best sense, toward these, that it may 
 please the Lord, who often turns the feet of their exercised father 
 from them, to condescend to be their Father and Friend, and to 
 make them truly his children. As I am favoured to keep my 
 habitation in the Truth, which the Lord in his infinite mercy and 
 love grant, through heights and depths, both at home and abroad, 
 may be my happy lot ; next to this, their walking in the Truth 
 will be my greatest joy." 
 
 After mentioning some particulars of their journey from 
 Richmond, a distance of three hundred and fifty miles, he 
 continues. 
 
 " I have been favoured with a sufficient reward for going round 
 to Contentney Quarterly Meeting, and can set my seal to the truth, 
 that the Lord is a rich rewarder of all that serve him in sincerity 
 of heart ; and I have no doubt it is in his will also, that our lot 
 has been cast amongst Friends in this Yearly Meeting. 
 
 " I have met with various occurrences since I left thee ; had 
 many long rides and close exercise of mind divers ways ; but I am 
 not disposed to give an evil report of such a journey, lest I may 
 unawares throw discouragement on the blessed work, for truly in 
 and through all I have met with, the Lord has never failed to help 
 
66 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1792. 
 
 with a little help, and my exercised mind has at times been set at 
 liberty in the gospel of his dear Son, Jesus Christ, my merciful 
 Saviour. Therefore, my dear, give me up now into his further 
 keeping and care, for I know not when I may get through this 
 journey. 
 
 " I often call to mind the deep, and I was going to say, horrible 
 pit of distress and despair into which I was plunged, and which 
 thou wast a witness of, not many months after our marriage, when 
 the jaws of death seemed to open upon me, and I was looking with 
 deep thoughtfulness at the house appointed for all living ; when 
 fearfulness overspread me, under an awful sense that I was not in 
 readiness. Then, 0 ! then, was I willing to covenant with the Lord, 
 that if he would restore peace to my mournful soul and continue 
 it, I would follow him to the land's end. No marvel, that since 
 that day it should be my lot to be often engaged abroad ; and I 
 feel sweet enriching peace of mind in a faithful dedication of all 
 that I am favoured with, to Divine disposal, however trying. 1 
 have also received this assurance, that as there is a continuance in 
 the same, I shall not want for necessary outward good things ; and 
 likewise as thou continuest in that which has hitherto strengthened 
 thee to give thy husband up to the all-wise Disposer, to run with 
 alacrity his errands, thou shalt witness the blessing descending 
 upon thee in a way which, at seasons, thou canst hardly believe." 
 
 Extract of a letter to John Hoskins, from the same place : — 
 
 " The situation of the poor blacks, who, after being set at liberty 
 by their conscientious masters, have been sold again by wicked men 
 under the sanction of a law of this state, came before this Yearly 
 Meeting ; and although a petition was handed [to] the Assembly 
 last year and rejected, Friends were encouraged to move in it again ; 
 and a committee of nine Friends was appointed to attend the 
 Assembly this month, with a lively, spirited remonstrance. I have 
 a hope that if they use endeavours in opportunities with the mem- 
 bers separately, when they go to Newbern, something more will 
 be gained, favourable to the poor blacks. There was a pretty large 
 committee attended from Virginia Yearly Meeting, respecting a 
 junction with this, but they proceeded, no further than to leave it 
 for consideration, and appointed a committee to attend the next 
 Yearly Meeting in Virginia. My mind has been closely exercised 
 on these two subjects during the sitting of this meeting ; although 
 neither I nor my father before me, that I know of, was ever con- 
 cerned with slaves ; neither has it fallen to my lot at home to 
 
1792.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 67 
 
 speak much in meetings on their behalf. It has not been so now; 
 for whilst thinking of such gross wickedness, I have felt the fire 
 to burn, which led also to speaking with the tongue. And I think 
 Friends have too much suffered their hands to hang down with 
 feebleness in this matter." 
 
 " 8th. — Went to Lewisburg to the house of a kind Methodist, 
 who would not take pay for what we had. I was made sensible 
 that religion had a place in his mind, and that of his wife, almost 
 as soon as I entered the house, and we had a solid season with the 
 family before we left them. 
 
 " 10th. — To the meeting of ministers and elders at Cane Creek. 
 In the ride this morning, I remembered the helpless condition I 
 was reduced to about this time nine years ago, by weakness of body 
 and mind, and now through mercy, this twenty-six miles 1 ride 
 appeared little to me. My heart was filled with gratitude to my 
 merciful Lord and Master, and although I have had times of suf- 
 fering and proving in this country, I have no doubt of being in the 
 proper allotment. But 0 ! how the dispensation was changed in 
 meeting ! Wait and hope, 0 ! my disconsolate soul, upon thy 
 Deliverer, who never fails in the needful time. 
 
 " ] 1th. — A large meeting ; but alas ! what a lifeless one. 0 ! the 
 rawness which appeared ; there was not much room for public com- 
 munication, and but little was given to me ; it was a suffering time. 
 
 " 12th. — To the Quarterly Meeting, which was an exercising, 
 searching time ; and in the close I felt peace, especially at the 
 conclusion of the select meeting, which held after night. 
 
 " 14?th. — This day begins our work in appointing meetings in this 
 country; notice having been given [for them] in the Quarterly 
 Meeting until First-day week. This was thought to be a pretty 
 good meeting. 
 
 " lothn — After a good opportunity in the family, we set off 
 before the sun was up, and rode to Spring meeting. As our friend 
 John Carter and I rode together, he informed me, that in his young 
 years, being visited by the day-spring from on high, he sought 
 much to find a place of rest to his soul, and joined the Baptists. 
 After a time he grew dissatisfied with their mode of worship, not 
 feeling that peace which he was in pursuit of ; and one day after 
 seeking the Lord with great earnestness, and begging of him to 
 show him whether that was the people he must join himself to, he 
 went to their meeting with a determination that if he felt an evi- 
 dence of the owning love of God to attend his mind, he would 
 
 f 2 
 
68 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1792. 
 
 submit to go into the water to be baptised, or any thing for peace 
 sake : but on that day, the preacher held forth such doctrine to the 
 people, that it turned him away from them in his mind, and led 
 him more and more into a lonely seeking state. At this time, the 
 little company of Friends in the neighbourhood had grown so 
 weak as to neglect their meeting, and had given consent for the 
 Baptists to hold meetings in their Meeting-house. For some time 
 his mind was impressed with an apprehension, that it was required 
 of him to go and sit down by himself in the Meeting-house ; but 
 he put it off, being ashamed. At length he went by a private way 
 and sat down alone and was greatly refreshed ; but he could not 
 do it privately long, feeling a necessity to travel the road openly, 
 for his friends and neighbours used to wonder where he went in 
 private. One day in going to meeting he met with one of them, 
 who asked him where he was going, and he told him honestly, ' I 
 am going to meeting.' ' Strange,' says the other, ' what will you 
 go there for V He left him, however, by the way, and had peace 
 in the meeting. Next time he went, seven of his neighbours 
 hearing of his going, joined him ; and in process of time he was 
 united to the Society of Friends : zeal and religion revived amongst 
 them, and there is now a large meeting, called Spring meeting, 
 which we were at to-day : and this Friend is a valuable minister 
 amongst them. We had a favoured meeting. 
 
 " \ 6th. — To the meeting at Cane Creek, which, upon the whole 
 was a good time. 
 
 " \1th. — To Rocky River meeting, which was large for the 
 place, the house could not hold the people, and it was an open 
 encoura<rin£ time. Several Friends came after meeting to David 
 Vestal's, to see us, and our parting was such a time of Divine 
 favour, as will not, I believe, easily be forgotten by some. 
 
 " 18th. — Went to Nathan Dickson's, and when the hour for 
 meeting came, we were agreeably surprised to find his barn well 
 accommodated with seats, &c, but it would not hold the crowd 
 of people that gathered ; many were out [of] doors, both sitting and 
 standing ; and through Divine mercy it was a thorough, favoured 
 time. After meeting, a man came to me with tears, and said, ' I 
 know that the glorious and everlasting gospel has been preached 
 this day, although I am not of your profession, and may the 
 Lord bless and protect you ;' or nearly to this purpose. May 
 the Lord have the praise of his own work, and flesh be laid in 
 the dust. 
 
 " 19th. — To the nieeting called Tyson's, held in a log house, 
 
1792.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 69 
 
 which was not large enough to contain the people, and an open 
 time it proved ; many of other societies attended, and I humbly 
 trust the gospel was preached with some degree of demonstration. 
 Stopping at a house to eat some provisions which a Friend had 
 kindly brought for us, and several others also coining there, I had 
 another opportunity to preach the gospel of my Lord and Saviour, 
 and so parted from our kind and hospitable friends and their 
 sober neighbours with sweet peace. 
 
 " 20th. — At Holly-spring meeting, which was large, and though 
 exercising in the fore part, I hope it ended profitably. After it, 
 a grey-headed old man came to me, and asked, whether I was of 
 the family of the Scattergoods, in New Jersey; and after telling 
 him I was, and some little more conversation passing, he said, 
 ' Thou hast scattered much good to-day ; may we keep it.' May 
 the praise, if any good is done, be rendered to the Lord, to whom 
 it is due for all his tender mercies. On the 22nd, attended 
 meeting at Providence, and next day at Center. In the evening, 
 Peter Dicks informed me, that there were but four or five families 
 settled near him, when he moved to this place, about forty years 
 ago. They held their meeting first in a private house, then built 
 a small meeting-house, which is yet standing, and used for a 
 school ; and near it is a large meeting-house, built within these 
 few years, — and a large settlement of Friends. He also told me, 
 that at the time William Penn came the second time into Penn- 
 sylvania, his grandfather was settled on Brandywine ; and on 
 William's return from a treaty with the Indians at the forks of 
 Brandywine, for the land on this side of Susquehanna, called the 
 Conestoga land, he came to his grandfather's, and offered him and 
 others a large tract of that good land, for £5. the hundred acres, 
 and left them to consider of it, which they did ; and after con- 
 sulting, concluded to send him word they would not take it, 
 because it was so far back, that they thought it would never be 
 settled, and it would only be money thrown away. 
 
 " 24:th. — Set off accompanied by our kind young friend Phineas 
 Nixon, who came to this place to conduct us to his house. It 
 was a precious ride to me, through a piney wilderness, particularly 
 the fore part, in meditating on the Divine law. This day saw a 
 fine buck near the road-side, and part of a flock of wild turkeys ; 
 and at a tavern by the way, a lad brought a fine buck on horse- 
 back out of the woods, which had been shot. 
 
 " 25th. — To Back Creek meeting, which was very large, and an 
 open time. 
 
70 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1792. 
 
 " 27th. — Whilst I sat in company and conversation at a Friend's 
 house, my mind was very suddenly impressed with weight and 
 solemnity, and giving way to it, my dear wife and family, and 
 also companions, and in a very particular manner my son, were 
 brought into remembrance, and under a precious exercise of spirit 
 I kneeled down and prayed for them. I trust the Lord heard, 
 and in his own time will grant the travail of my soul. It was an 
 hour of love and mercy, and the sweetness remained on my mind 
 along the road for most of the afternoon. 
 
 " 28th. — A morning of close baptism and exercise ; having very 
 close things to say in the meeting at Marlborough, but after it 
 felt pretty easy, and several told me that what was said was to 
 purpose. Ah, what is yesterday's manna when gone ! It is not 
 to be looked to or depended on to-day, but day by day we are to 
 seek the daily bread. 
 
 " Twelfth Month 1st. — Went to Springfield Monthly Meeting, 
 where I was closely exercised in the meeting for worship. 
 
 " 2nd. — O ! how very close was the exercise of my soul at Deep 
 River meeting this day. It was a large assembly, and I sat long 
 in silence, but at length had to deal out doctrine to very gross 
 conditions, but was comforted in that a little food for the Lord's 
 children, the sheep and lambs, was at length given me. Here I 
 met with my old friend and father, David Brooks and his wife, 
 who appeared glad to see me. I have had close doctrine indeed 
 to deliver in some of the meetings lately. 0 merciful Father ! 
 preserve me from saying anything which may prove a burthen. 
 
 " 3rd. — To the Monthly Meeting, which was rather a more 
 easy time than yesterday, and found considerable relief in my 
 labour, although it was indeed close. After night, rode home 
 with David Brooks, and found a comfortable habitation, quite 
 sufficient for a resting-place for the traveller. Both he and his 
 wife gave me a hearty welcome, and time passed away in the 
 evening pleasantly, whilst engaged in recounting the gracious 
 dealings of a merciful God, since we were together almost twelve 
 years ago, in New England." 
 
 He then attended meetings at Muddy Creek, Upper and Lower 
 Reedy Fork, Bull Run, and the Quarterly Meeting at New 
 Garden. After which he remarks : 
 
 " 11th. — After a sweet and refreshing night's rest, and feeling 
 comfortable and easy in mind this morning, I have sat down with 
 thankfulness to the Lord my helper, and made this little record, 
 looking for baptisms and humbling trials, both inwardly and 
 
1792.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 71 
 
 outwardly to succeed ; but may I humbly hope and trust in the 
 arm of Divine strength. At this meeting, we had the company of 
 a pretty large number of Friends from Cane Creek quarter. 
 Dear old David Vestal, who has been as a father to me, said on 
 parting, ' I am grown old, and cannot do as I have done in younger 
 life, in going with and helping Friends ; but I have felt such love 
 towards you, that I have thought sometimes I could almost run 
 after you on foot.' 
 
 " 12th. — To meeting at Muddy Creek, which was large and 
 laborious, but was thought a profitable one, and solid in the con- 
 clusion. My dear friend D. Brooks stopped me in the meeting- 
 house, and desired I would not be discouraged in low seasons, for 
 he could inform me, that the state of things had been spoken to. 
 
 " 13th. — To Blue Creek meeting, which was an humbling bap- 
 tising time to me ; wherein, I trust, I was favoured to pour out 
 my spirit in humble supplication, and afterwards in testimony ; 
 and I thought a state or states present were designed for the 
 ministry, or usefulness in the church. 
 
 il 16th. — To Westfield meeting, which was large and mixed. 
 I was much exercised in desires that there might be a quiet 
 settlement among the people, and got up to speak ; but such was 
 the instability manifested, and the want of life in the meeting, 
 that I soon sat down, and waded under a travail for an hour or 
 more. After this conflict, my gracious Master helped me to dis- 
 charge myself to my own relief, and I hope to the warning of 
 some, and to the comfort and help of others. 
 
 " 18th. — Was at Deep Creek meeting, which was the most 
 crowded we have attended ; the house could not hold the people 
 by many, and although it was very spending and laborious, my 
 companion says it was a good meeting, especially the latter end. 
 I was informed that George Dillwyn was the first Friend who 
 had a meeting in this place, and now they have requested to hold 
 a Monthly Meeting. 
 
 " 1 9th. — This morning's ride has been a serious humbling one 
 to me ; and after we got here my spirit was brought into great 
 exercise, in which I sat nearly an hour in much conflict, like one 
 bound hand and foot ; but through the arising of Divine love and 
 mercy, I was at length set at liberty to appoint a meeting. The 
 husband was prepared for the word of command, for which my 
 exercised soul had been also waiting ; and he soon went off to 
 notify his neighbours ; the daughter, about thirteen years of age, 
 as soon almost as I mentioned the liberty I felt to have a meeting, 
 
72 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1792. 
 
 said she did not doubt that the neighbours would be glad of it, 
 and with great cheerfulness mounted a horse, and went to give 
 notice. Soon after, we saw her aged grandmother, a Baptist, who 
 was here on a visit, walking along a path which led into the woods, 
 as briskly as a young woman. O ! my soul, wait the issue of all 
 this unexpected faith and love ! My faith and patience have been 
 closely tried ; truly it is a precious thing to be passive and willing, 
 waiting the Lord's time for his holy will to be done. Lord keep 
 me in the way thou pleasest I should go. 
 
 " 20th. — A mixed meeting of Anabaptists and Methodists : I 
 sat long in silence, and believe it was right to do so, but at length 
 my gracious Master appeared for my help and strength, and it 
 was thought to be a good time. At the close, some of the people 
 parted from us with the appearance of affection. 
 
 " 21 st. — Proceeded on our journey by a way which none of us 
 knew, and after crossing the Catawba River got to a friendly 
 man's house, where we stayed ; and I feel humbly thankful that 
 my spirit is borne up and supported this evening. 
 
 " 22nd. — Sat down and was favoured in a solid opportunity 
 with this family. The elder boys brought my childish days into 
 remembrance, and I was engaged to direct their minds to more 
 precious things. Whilst I was engaged in testimony, a stranger 
 came in, whom I met with last evening, soon after we crossed the 
 river. One of our guides asked him the way, and instead of 
 giving a civil answer, he was abusive, appearing to be somewhat 
 intoxicated ; but he was changed before we left this family, for 
 being about to mount my horse, and offering to take him by the 
 hand to bid him farewell, he said he was going the same road, and 
 wanted company. Truth was over him, and he was a loving and 
 useful man to us on the road all day. Both Josiah and I had good 
 satisfaction in endeavouring to open the way of life and salvation 
 to him, and he acknowledged to the truth of it. 
 
 " 23rd. — We moved forward, and meeting with some difficulty 
 in finding the road, stopped at a Captain Mix's. I was comforted, 
 on entering the door, in finding his wife with a good book on her 
 lap ; we had some religious conversation with them, and, when we 
 were ready to go, he told us we were welcome to put up and stay 
 with him that day. I felt much love toward him on parting, for 
 indeed he appeared a lovely sensible young man, and I could not 
 be easy without telling him my desire, that the Lord would 
 enlarge his heart in the gospel of his Son ; and on looking over 
 the neighbourhood, I felt an earnest breathing to the Lord of the 
 
1792.] MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 73 
 
 universe, that he would make way for the propagation of the 
 gospel of peace, both here, and unto the ends of the earth. Wo 
 found the way to the ferry at Broad River with difficulty ; and 
 the boat had been brought to the side on which we were by some 
 young people, who were gone a distance off. A woman on the 
 opposite side told us we might ferry ourselves over; and Josiah 
 and I undertook it. Here we fed our horses and ate our dinners 
 on a stump, and after the company had set off, I had to turn 
 back and open to the woman who directed us over, that passage 
 of our dear Lord's conversation with the Samaritan woman. She 
 appeared glad of the freedom I took in explaining it to her under- 
 standing, as was also a younger one, who stood by her. Many 
 doubtless are the scattered sheep, without an outward shepherd 
 rightly to direct them. Soon after we left the ferry, it began to 
 rain, and we stopped at a house by the fording place over Packolet 
 river ; and after some pleading, Josiah and I got entrance, the 
 Friends in company with us going back about a mile with our 
 horses. We were taken into a weaving room, with a little fire 
 on the hearth, where we sat contentedly drying ourselves, not 
 knowing where we might be permitted to lay our heads this night. 
 After a while we were conducted into another room, with an 
 earthen floor and a good fire, where we ate our suppers. Although 
 the man gave us no great expectation, yet we were furnished with 
 a bed ; in the morning, he went to the river with us, to direct us 
 over the ford. I parted from him in the love of the gospel, after 
 being engaged to open some of the truths of it to his mind. 
 
 " 25th. — A prospect of labour opens within Bush Iliver quarter. 
 Lord keep me, and preserve me in patience, devoted in heart to 
 do thy blessed will. 
 
 " 27th. — To Paget's Creek meeting, which was large, but long 
 in gathering ; and when mostly settled, a rude company came 
 past and disturbed it. Yet through favour, we had a pretty good 
 meeting afterwards. 
 
 " 28th. — This morning after breakfast our friend John Clark 
 called for us, and after a sweet opportunity in the family, we pro- 
 ceeded toward Rocky Spring. It began to snow about three 
 hours before day and continued until about noon, the bushes and 
 trees were loaded with it, and the way was very difficult ; never- 
 theless, it has been a day of favour to me— for although I ate 
 nothing but a piece of cake for my dinner, and a drink of water by 
 the way, through the extension of Divine love shed abroad in my 
 heart, all was pleasant. My dear and precious wife was brought 
 
74 
 
 MEMOmS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 very near in spirit, and my prayers were to the Lord, who had so 
 mercifully opened to me the fountain of life, that she might be a 
 sharer in the same. 
 
 " 29th. — A very cold night, water froze to a considerable thick- 
 ness on the table. Had a suffering time both inwardly and out- 
 wardly at the Monthly Meeting at Bush River, from which we 
 went home with Isaac and Charity Cook. Ah, what a poor 
 unworthy slipping creature I am ; may care and circumspection 
 be renewed, so that I may know preservation from secret faults. 
 I am in heaviness this evening, not so living as I ought. 
 
 " 30th. — Another very cold night and a suffering one ; it would 
 not have been so, if the deceiver and deceit had been more nar- 
 rowly watched against. Lord Jesus forsake me not in my labour 
 and travail in this remote land. Went to Bush River meeting, 
 and although it was long in gathering, and the minds of the people 
 for a considerable time unsettled ; yet we were at length, I trust, 
 favoured, and my mind opened to deliver some weighty gospel 
 truths. 
 
 " 31st. — Set off early this morning for Mudlick meeting, accom- 
 panied by Isaac Cook. A poor little company collected, but we 
 fared much better than I expected. 
 
 "■First Month 1st, 1793.— To Rabans Creek meeting, held in 
 a poor house with an earthen floor, which was damp witli the beat- 
 ing in of the rain and snow. I thought on sitting down that it 
 seemed a very poor beginning, but I was enabled to preach the 
 gospel amongst them, and came away easy. 
 
 " 2?id. — After riding all day, we lodged in a little cabin, and 
 met with Samuel Pearson, who expects to go with us into Georgia. 
 
 " 3rd. — Went to meeting at Allwood's very poor, and con- 
 tinued so for a season, but to my admiration my heart was greatly 
 enlarged in gospel love, and my mouth opened, and trust it proved 
 a profitable season ; after which we proposed to get on our way 
 ten or twelve miles, but I was discouraged on account of my 
 feebleness, and concluded to take an early start in the morning. 
 
 " Uh. — Arose before daylight, and proceeded on our way ; 
 stopped in the woods twice and fed our horses ; crossed Savannah 
 river, which is three hundred yards wide, at M'Koy's ferry, and 
 also Little river. The sun shining in our eyes, for some time we 
 could not see the landing-place on the opposite side ; and being 
 strangers to the ford, we did not go right, and I have not been 
 so much tried in crossing any water since we left home. My 
 heart is thankful for this preservation, and for the many others 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 75 
 
 we have through mercy experienced. Travelled most of this day 
 along a lonely desolate path, with notched trees for our guide, 
 and but few inhabitants by the way ; arrived at our friend 
 William Farmer's about sun set, and think we must have rode 
 nearly or quite forty-five miles. This kind man met us at his 
 gate, and upon querying whether he could take us in, his habita- 
 tion looking so small, he cheerfully answered, he had food for us 
 and our horses, and would do as well as he could for us. This 
 is the smallest house I think I remember to have been in ; but we 
 were favoured with enough — his heart is larger than his house. 
 He told us that four years ago, when he settled here, his waggon 
 was their dwelling place for some time ; at first he built a little 
 bower or tent, but a storm blew off the roof, and they took again 
 to the wa<«ron for shelter. 
 
 Go 
 
 " 5th. — To the Monthly Meeting of Wrightsborough ; on the 
 way and in the meeting also, my mind was under close conflict, 
 and I felt spiritual death increase on me, and told my companion 
 on the way, that if my friends did not rise up in spirit and help 
 me, I feared I should sink and do nothing amongst them. Thus 
 I continued for a time in the fore part of the meeting ; having to 
 look over my steppings along in this journey, also to remember the 
 hand of my God upon me nine years ago in sickness and deep 
 affliction of my soul, wherein I was made willing to follow Him 
 for the sake of his Divine presence ; who then was mercifully 
 pleased to hear my groans, and take my engagement to answer 
 the debt, when called upon. Under a sense of his protecting care 
 and Divine providence, in leading and also feeding me, and having 
 enabled me to reach that part of these southern lands which was 
 then shewn me, my heart, in the midst of my afflicted state was 
 broken ; and after venting a few tears, I was willing to close this 
 silent part of the meeting. Friends proceeded to their business, 
 and alas ! how I was disappointed. Often on the way I was 
 pleasing myself with the prospect of getting amongst a tender, 
 hopeful people, who would receive me with open arms, and that I 
 should visit them from family to family ; but instead of this, I do 
 not remember to have had closer things to say in any meeting. 
 My spirit was oppressed and grieved ; but having with honesty 
 endeavoured to discharge my religious duty, I felt peaceful, and 
 we returned to our friend John Embree's, who received us kindly, 
 where I feel much relieved this evening. 
 
 " 6th. — Felt much at liberty in my mind this morning, which 
 continued on the way to meeting, and I thought it was likely I 
 
7C> 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 should be favoured with an open relieving season ; but on the 
 contrary, I sat the meeting through in silence, and at the close 
 told the people who were not of our Society, that I felt much love 
 toward them, but had not so learned Christ as to tell the people, 
 like some, to come together and that there would be preaching on 
 such a day, and that in a time of spiritual poverty I dare not put 
 forth my hand to steal. I then requested that they would leave 
 me with Friends, for I wanted to see them together, which, after 
 a time, was mostly complied with, and I had a close searching 
 time with the members of our Society ; a number of whom gathered 
 about us after the meeting broke up, and were loving and kind. 
 
 " 7th. — 0 ! the conflicts of my soul last night and this morning, 
 in which dear Josiah was my companion. I hope the Lord, in his 
 wisdom and love, baptized me measurably into a feeling of the 
 death and sufferings of my Saviour, and thereby caused a willing- 
 ness still to follow Him in the way of the cross. ' Know ye not, 
 that as many as were baptized into Jesus Christ, were baptized 
 into his death.'' We had a solid opportunity in this family, and 
 then joined by a number of Friends, went to an appointed meeting 
 at William Farmer's, who met us about five miles from his house, 
 and told me he had been up since about midnight, providing seats 
 and fitting up a shed to hold the meeting in. He met me in a 
 broken and tender manner ; and the prayer of my heart was, that 
 according to his faith in God, so might it be done for him. It 
 proved a good meeting, as appeared by the brokenness of some, 
 both in the meeting and afterward ; although there were some who 
 laughed and jeered, who were sharply reproved. A number of the 
 neighbours came back in the afternoon, amongst whom we had a 
 precious season, and they parted from us with the desire that the 
 Lord might go with us. 
 
 "■8th. — Setoff at daylight accompanied by our friends James 
 Galbraith and Samuel Pearson. William Farmer and his brother 
 Benjamin, also went as far as Little River to see us safely over 
 that difficult ford. After crossing the Savannah river, we stopped 
 at the ferry house and refreshed ourselves with provisions we had 
 with us, and fed our horses. I proposed to the landlord to see his 
 family together in a religious way ; which was readily granted, 
 and we were taken to a house at a small distance, where we found 
 his wife sick. The family were soon gathered, and I had an open 
 time amongst them, which appeared to be much to the satisfaction 
 of the parents. 
 
 " 9th. — Stopped and had a meeting with the scholars in the 
 
1793 ] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 77 
 
 meeting or school-house, which afforded peace to my mind ; and I 
 had a sweet and comfortable ride most of the morning through the 
 wilderness — crossed the Saluda at the island ford, which was some- 
 what trying, but got safely over. 
 
 " \0th. — Feel better in health this morning, after a comfortable 
 night's rest ; went to the week-day meeting at Bush River, ac- 
 companied by dear Mary Pearson, who came before breakfast to 
 see us. It was a conflicting silent meeting. O ! the death and 
 heaviness which overspread my mind this day, and continue this 
 evening ; I do not feel strength enough to appoint a meeting here 
 to-morrow ; therefore wait in patience, 0 my soul ! under the 
 baptism of death. 
 
 " 12th. — Went to the meeting of ministers and elders ; where we 
 met with dear David Vestal and his companion, on a religious visit 
 to these parts. It was an exercising time to me, and no opening 
 to labour in the fore-part ; but I hope we were afterward profitably 
 in our places, in the business of the day. 
 
 " 13th. — To a very large and laborious meeting at Bush River, 
 the house not containing the people. The wicked, unruly, and 
 dissipated ones were warned ; and I hope the seeking traveller 
 encouraged to hold on his way. I was much spent, and after 
 taking some refreshment, laid down under exercise and conflict of 
 mind, being tried ever since we left Georgia, with a prospect of 
 returning back, and through favour there is a willingness begotten 
 to be obedient, and to do all that my good Master may open and 
 qualify for. 0 my soul ! thy dwelling has of late been as 
 amongst those who kill the divine life ; hope and trust thou in the 
 Divine Arm, to be carried through ; that Arm which has hitherto 
 at seasons been made bare for thy help and deliverance, and by 
 which the mouth of the murmurer and complainer has been 
 stopped ; and this is cause of thankfulness. 
 
 " 16th. — A rainy day: kept house and employed myself in 
 reading, writing, and looking over letters from my dear family and 
 friends, who have sympathized with me : and although it has been, 
 in some degree, a quiet improving day, nevertheless, I am a poor 
 servant ; yet hope for more favoured times. Is not all good which 
 is ordered in Divine appointment ? 
 
 " 17th. — Set off this morning after breakfast, and it has been 
 a peaceful day, although turning my face from home. 
 
 "18£/t.- — Accompanied by our two friends, Marmaduke Menden- 
 hall and Richard Batten, with David Vestal and his companion, 
 and Benjamin Farmer, we got well over the waters, though we had 
 
78 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 to ride about ten miles round, in order to avoid Little River ford, 
 and find a good bridge. Reached our friend Benjamin Farmer's 
 cabin in the evening — and although I felt poorly most of the day, 
 and under some discouragement, nevertheless my mind was sup- 
 ported and borne up through all. 
 
 " 19th. — Lord, why should such a worm as I am, murmur or 
 complain, when thou in infinite love condescended to dwell on earth ; 
 condescended to men of low estate, and took up thy abode with the 
 poor of this world ; thereby to set all thy servants an example of 
 humility and lowliness. O ! how sweet is thy presence, whether 
 experienced in the habitations of the rich or of the poor, or in the 
 wilderness and lonely places. How are thy servants blessed, O 
 Lord ! who are favoured to cast their care on thee. Went to a 
 meeting at William Farmer's, held in his new unfinished cabin, 
 which he had fitted up for the purpose, and upon the whole it was 
 a commodious place ; this meeting was appointed by David Vestal 
 and Isaac Wilson, his companion ; I had some service in it. 
 
 "2()th. — After breakfast, came ten or fifteen Friends and friendly 
 people, from Farmer's settlement, on their way to meeting, most 
 of them on foot, having walked eight or nine miles. It rejoiced 
 me to see their zeal ; and after we were gathered, it was a large 
 meeting, more than the house could contain, and I was, for once 
 in this place, favoured with an open and measurably relieving time, 
 for which I was thankful. It is eight months this day, since I left 
 my dear wife, mother and children, and the tender solicitude of my 
 heart goes forth on their account. May Divine mercy and kind- 
 ness be near, and bear up the spirit of my dear companion, and as 
 He is doing and has done of late for me, so also to remember her, 
 and make hard things easy, and bitter things sweet. 
 
 " 21st. — To a large and mixed meeting, held at the house of 
 Marmaduke Mendenhall, which was pretty laborious, but hope 
 there were some tender minds. 
 
 " 22nd. — Unwell, but peaceful and easy. 
 
 " 23rd. — Enter my forty-fourth year, (0. S.) and I have been 
 favoured since I awoke from sleep, with a little space of sweetness 
 of mind in quiet. 0 precious stillness, how good it is ! Rode to 
 meeting, and such was my feebleness that my knees trembled under 
 me ; but, thanks be to Him who is ever worthy ; it proved an 
 instructive time to seeking, sober inquirers ; after which we 
 requested the active members of our Society to stop with us, and 
 had a searching time among them ; some were disposed to confess 
 their faults one to another, and I hope things are on the mend : 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIBS OF THOMAS SC ATTI5RGOOD. 
 
 7!) 
 
 but 0 ! what conflicting seasons I have to pass througli in this 
 place. 
 
 " 2Uh. — Spent this day at our friend Daniel Williams' in an 
 exercised state of mind, and feebleness of body. 
 
 " 25th. — A morning of close exercise of mind, but no opening 
 to any religious service amongst Friends ; it would be pleasant, 
 through Divine help, to be favoured to break a little portion of 
 bread, after it is blessed. It is a trying state, not to know where to 
 go, or what to do. ' Foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have 
 nests, but the Son of Man hath not where to lay his head.' If it 
 was thus in the green tree, the Son and Heir of all things, wait in 
 patience, 0 my soul ! under every painful dispensation, that so, having 
 fellowship with thy Lord in suffering, in the day when he shall 
 appear, thou mayst be prepared a little to rejoice with Him ; who, 
 when he comes, rewards amply for all our suffering. After break- 
 fast walked out into the woods under thoughtful exercise, and on 
 my return found J. E. in the house, with whom my companion 
 and I had a solid conversation. He acknowledged with tender- 
 ness, his gratitude that the Lord had turned us back amongst them, 
 and that we had been made instrumental in the hands of Christ, 
 to open the prison door for his enlargement. He said that our 
 turning our backs on them, appeared like shaking the dust off our 
 feet against them, which was affecting. My spirit felt a little 
 revived, after encouraging him in the way of peace. 
 
 " 2&k. — Spent this day in no small affliction, feeling as in an 
 imprisoned state — seeing nothing to do, and so far and so long from 
 home. 0 ! for patience and resignation in this proving condition. 
 Not my will, O gracious Lord and Master ! but Thine be done. 
 
 " 27th. — Went to meeting, and sat for a time under conflict, but 
 at length was opened and favoured measurably to relieve my spirit, 
 in a close and searching testimony. It was again a crowded 
 meeting. After which I had to return to my former state of trial 
 and pain of mind. I remembered Samuel 13ownas, who speaks of 
 the same being his experience. I believe mine is on account of the 
 state of things hereaway, or at least measurably so : who can 
 rejoice when the Seed (Christ) is under oppression in professors 
 and profane. 0 ! what a wicked spirit has reigned in these 
 southern lands, and what a want there is still amongst all sorts 
 of people, of honouring the God of their life, breath and being. 
 Went home with Francis Jones ; in the evening, we were favoured 
 with a precious baptizing opportunity in this family, with a 
 number of the children, and afterwards my bed was made sweet 
 
80 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 and easy to me, although unwell. The Lord be praised for his 
 preserving care, which keeps the poor tossed mind in patience. 
 
 " 28th. — Spent part of this morning in walking abroad, and part 
 in reading. It is a warm day, in which the frogs are tuning their 
 notes of praise, answering the end of their creation. 
 
 " 29th. — A wakeful night, in which my home was brought nearly 
 into view. Surely I should faint, if it were not that there is a grain 
 of living faith preserved in this poor earthen vessel. I felt weak 
 in body and exercised in mind, after I arose from my bed. Lord 
 Jesus, shall I again witness times of greater confirmation in the 
 way and work to which thou hast, in unsearchable wisdom, appointed 
 me ! Wait in patience, 0 ! my poor tried soul, even in the deeps. 
 
 " 30th. — The meeting to-day, in the fore part, was a time of 
 serious looking back, and retrospection into my conduct in days 
 past. When the Lord humbles the creature, and gives it clearly 
 to see its own insufficiency, and need of superior aid, how it hides 
 pride. Before the meeting closed, I imparted some of my feelings, 
 and thought I was dipped into the states of some, to their en- 
 couragement in the way everlasting. My bodily strength is re- 
 newed, and I am more easy and quiet in spirit, for which favour 
 I feel thankful in heart to the Preserver of men. 
 
 " Second Month 1st. — Went to J. JVs, and was favoured with 
 a comfortable sitting with these young married persons ; left them 
 with sweetness and peace, and went to S.M/s, where we had a 
 religious opportunity, which I hope will not soon be forgotten by 
 either parents or children. This family, amongst many others in 
 these parts, were robbed and spoiled in the time of the late war. 
 Their house was burnt, and one of the children told us, that a man 
 who was instrumental in spoiling their goods, was at meeting last 
 Fourth-day week, in which I had to speak to murderers, thieves, 
 &c, and pointed out to them the necessity of endeavouring to do 
 all in their power to make restitution. The child observed that he 
 seemed much brought down, and his lips quivered. 
 
 " 3rd. — Went to meeting, which was a pretty open time, and 
 when it was over, Friends took an affectionate leave of us. 11 After 
 a religious opportunity which he had with an individual, he says : 
 " 0 ! what close things escape my lips. Lord, I am in thy hand ; 
 purge me from all the dregs of malice or bitterness, and look down 
 in mercy on this family. When we were about leaving them, 
 
 N took me aside to speak to me ; and as I had told them I 
 
 stood open to hear any thing they might have to say to me, and 
 now was the time if they had any thing to object against my con- 
 
1793.] 
 
 MKMOIBS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 81 
 
 duct, and not when we were gone — 1 thought he was going to make 
 some objections, but instead of that, he freely confessed that he 
 had done amiss in several respects, and acknowledged that I had 
 been made, in the Divine hand, an instrument of good to him ; 
 ' for,' said he, ' I have been a wicked man.' This youth with others 
 had been the cause of much grief and exercise to my mind in the 
 first meeting we were at. I now parted from him in tenderness 
 and love, and he desired I might remember him when far separated; 
 and their younger brother on parting, also told me in an affectionate 
 manner, that he was never more glad to see any body in his life, 
 than he was to see us on our return to his father's : we left them 
 with good desires and went home with F. J. and lodged. 
 
 " 4th. — We had a solemn affecting parting time with Friends 
 and others — and after visiting several families, in which religious 
 opportunities occurred, he remarks : " Went peacefully to rest, 
 and for the favours of this day I bow in thankfulness to the Lord. 
 
 " 5th. — Found a Friend in the house when we arose, who came 
 seven miles this morning to see us. O ! how precious is true love 
 manifested by the poor amongst men — the widow's mite was 
 precious when seasoned with this. Called to see a Friend and his 
 wife who were sick, and had a pretty open opportunity, in the close 
 of which I kneeled down and prayed to the Almighty to preserve 
 my dear friends, and also to look down in mercy upon the inhabi- 
 tants of Georgia ; and felt peaceful and easy after parting from 
 divers of my friends here : got into Augusta before night. 
 
 " 6th. — Looked carefully over this town in love, but did not see 
 that it was required of me to call the people together After we 
 had parted from our friends at the bridge, and got over on the 
 other side of the Savannah river, I saw a company of black people, 
 men and women, with hand-barrows, making a large causeway to 
 the foot of the bridge. I felt pity flow in my heart toward them, 
 and made a stop and asked them how they did. My heart was 
 enlarged to preach the gospel as I sat on my horse, to the poor, 
 who received the sound thereof with tears and brokenness, and my 
 mind was sweetly comforted in parting from them. 
 
 " 7th. — Reached Isaac Cook's ; and on the 10th attended Bush 
 River meeting, which was a large and mixed one, very irregular in 
 gathering, and unsettled in the fore part. My companion had 
 something suitable to say to them, and afterwards I stood up and 
 laboured zealously and honestly, to the ease and peace of my mind. 
 More relief and sweetness [were] graciously afforded, and the way 
 to move forward [now] seems opening. 
 
 G 
 
82 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEKGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 " I3tk. — To Rocky-spring meeting; which was large and mixed. 
 A number of Anabaptists came to it, and the universality of the 
 love of God, and the one true and saving baptism were preached 
 to the people. 
 
 " 14^. — Accompanied by several Friends, we arrived at J. G.'s 
 on the road leading to Charleston, — on the 15th, after a seasonable, 
 and — may it prove — a profitable opportunity with partof the family, 
 pursued our journey through a wilderness country, and got to a 
 house kept by a German, where we made out pretty well, and set 
 off peaceful and easy in mind, after taking an opportunity to ex- 
 press to him what weighed on my mind, concerning a future state, 
 slaves, &c. Stopped by the way and fed our horses, and whilst 
 they ate, we also partook of some food, — the ground being our 
 table, as it frequently is, or else a stump or log. Provision, how- 
 ever simple or humbly spread, eats sweet to the contented mind ; 
 yea, a contented mind is a continual feast : the Lord be praised 
 for the many mercies received since I left Georgia ; and may I 
 stand girt about, and prepared for further suffering for the Seed's 
 sake. 
 
 " ] 7th. — Went to Edisto, a little meeting of a few Friends and 
 friendly people, who meet, but have not the consent of Bush River 
 Monthly Meeting ; yet we were free to stop amongst them, and 
 such neighbours as inclined to come and sit with us. We got to the 
 meeting about eleven o'clock, but it was not fully gathered until one 
 o'clock, or near it, and held until three; and it was five before we got 
 any dinner. This has been frequently our lot in these parts, which is 
 spending to the body, but mercy and kindness follow us, which has 
 borne up my mind under exercise this day, and I feel peaceful and 
 easy this evening. 
 
 " 19th. — Got into Charleston, and on the 20th went to the 
 week-day meeting, where was a little company, and I had but little 
 to say.' 1 
 
 In a letter dated Charleston, Second Month 19th, 1793, after 
 describing the many privations which they experienced, in travel- 
 ling through a country where there were no regular taverns or 
 dwelling-houses, he alludes to their having to go back into Georgia. 
 
 " I wrote thee from Augusta that we had to go back again almost 
 one hundred miles, into Georgia. I saw it before we left Georgia, 
 and was concerned about my dear companion ; but the blessed 
 Master who has united us truly together as yokemates, gave him 
 also to feel the concern, and when I hinted on the road that per- 
 
1793.] MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 8.3 
 
 haps we should have to return, after the Quarterly Meeting of Bush 
 lliver, he quickly answered that it was what he expected. Indeed 
 he was deeply dipped into sympathy with me in that place, inso- 
 much that he told me he felt almost as if his natural life must go, 
 and was pondering in his mind what would become of me. This 
 was joyful to me, because I found we were baptized by the same 
 Spirit into one living concern for the resurrection of life and the 
 increase of it, amongst the people ; and such baptisms make near 
 and dear one to another. We not only left Georgia, but also Bush 
 River, with sheaves of peace in our bosoms.' 1 
 
 " 23rd. — 0, my poverty and weakness ! Where is the righteous 
 man to stand in the gap \ yet I hope there is a seed preserved even 
 in this wicked place." 
 
 g 2 
 
84 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 1793. LETTER TO JOHN PEMBERTON FROM CHARLESTON FURTHER 
 
 RELIGIOUS SERVICE IN SOUTH CAROLINA WRITES TO A LITTLE COM- 
 PANY WHO PROFESS WITH FRIENDS NORTH CAROLINA RETURNS TO 
 
 VIRGINIA EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS WRITTEN WHILST THERE 
 
 ATTENDS THE YEARLY MEETING FOR VIRGINIA, AND HAS FURTHER 
 SERVICE IN THAT LAND RETURNS HOME WRITES A BRIEF SUM- 
 MARY OF HIS RELIGIOUS LABOURS FOR SOME YEARS PREVIOUS. 
 
 At Charleston, under date of Second Month 23rd, 1 793, he wrote 
 the following letter to his beloved friend John Pemberton : — 
 
 " I received thy letter, dated Eleventh Month 26th, on the day- 
 after our return from Georgia to Bush River : it met me at a 
 seasonable time, and the contents were then, and continue to be, 
 as the oil of joy and consolation to a poor and often mournful soul. 
 I have passed through very close exercise, and my path has been 
 deeply proving, especially in Georgia, a place of which I seemed 
 to have a prospect, a number of years ago, when confined to the 
 bed of sickness, and at a time when the heavens appeared as brass, 
 and the earth as iron. 0 ! the pangs, — the unutterable anguish I 
 had to pass through in that day, when I was brought into a wil- 
 lingness to say, ' Lord, be graciously pleased to remove this heavy 
 stroke from me, and if thou leadest me forth to the end of the 
 land, and wilt go before me and favour with a sense of thy love 
 and acceptance, I will follow thee,' — and this covenant has been 
 frequently and humblingly brought into my view. 
 
 " There were eight or ten days between the Monthly Meeting 
 of Bush River and the Quarterly Meeting, and I was free to make 
 use of this time in going to Wrightsborough, and attending the 
 Monthly Meeting there, hoping it might be the means of en- 
 couraging some to get out to the quarter, who otherwise would not. 
 We accordingly attended the Monthly Meeting, and the meeting 
 on First-day, and were much shut up as to public service, 
 although there was a considerable flocking to meetings, both by 
 Friends and others. We were both much pained under a sense 
 that something was out of order; and in a private opportunity, the 
 state of things was opened to Friends, in a manner which excited 
 their admiration, seeing we knew so little by outward information. 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 85 
 
 "After the two meetings above mentioned, and one with a little 
 company of hopeful Friends, ten miles nearer to Bush River, we 
 left them and proceeded to the Quarterly Meeting ; but before I 
 left the place, I was made sensible that my will must be resigned 
 to turn back again, and I was not a little concerned about my dear 
 companion, but on giving him a hint how it felt to me, to my great 
 joy, I found the same invisible hand had been at work to prepare 
 his mind for the trial. 
 
 " After the Quarterly Meeting we returned, and were dipped 
 more deeply into the state of things, and were happily favoured to 
 feel and see the healing waters stirred among them : we stayed to 
 another Monthly Meeting, and left the settlement with the reward 
 of enriching peace in our bosoms. Our first day's journey on our 
 return was to Augusta, having passed a nearer way before, but 
 now were under a necessity to go through that place on account 
 of the high waters. I endeavoured carefully to feel whether it was 
 my place to have a meeting in the town, but did not see that it 
 was, and so passed quietly away, but not without the flowing of 
 love and good desires in my heart for the inhabitants. 
 
 " After we had passed over the great bridge of Savannah, I saw a 
 pretty large number of poor black people, both male and female, 
 carrying dirt on hand-barrows, to make a causeway. At first 
 sight of them I felt pity flow in my heart toward them, under a 
 sense of their burdens — and after expressing my sympathv with 
 them, I found a necessity laid on me to pull off my hat and 
 preach to them the gospel of Jesus Christ, their suffering Lord 
 and Saviour. It was a solemn time ; and when I took off my 
 hat, they did so likewise, and threw aside their tools ; and there 
 was loud weeping among them. In thus unexpectedly labouring 
 among this Ethiopian congregation, (not having the least thought 
 of such a thing five minutes before,) there was no want of words, 
 or of that seasoning sweetness which makes right words reach the 
 heart, and under this precious sense, it would have been as mv 
 meat and drink to have spent myself in labours of love, if instead 
 of twenty or thirty, there had been as many hundreds : great was 
 the sweetness which attended my mind on the road after leaving 
 them. 
 
 " We spent several days at Bush River ; attended several 
 meetings, visited some families, and laboured with a committee 
 of the Monthly Meeting for the freedom of some black people : we 
 also stopped at a place called Edisto, and had a meeting last First- 
 day, — a few in that neighbourhood being convinced of Friends'' 
 
86 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 principles. We arrived here on Third-day morning, and next day 
 attended the little meeting held in this place, and sat with the 
 few members, and two Friends who were part of a committee 
 appointed at Bush River, by request of the Meeting for Sufferings, 
 to take some care of matters here. I wish there had been more 
 zeal and willingness in that committee, which consists of eight 
 Friends. I sat most of the meeting in silence, taking a view of 
 our poor, desolate Society here ; how she sits as a mournful, 
 bereaved widow, her walls thrown down, and her gates burned 
 with fire. It has appeared to me that Truth, the pure, unchange- 
 able, precious Truth, will not flourish in this dissipated place, 
 until the righteous God of Truth rises up to assert his own 
 sovereignty ; and under this sense I have rested peaceful and 
 quiet, feeling very poor and small, and the prospect of only staying 
 and sitting in Friends' meeting to-morrow, appears a weighty 
 thing. We have had the company of a number of the inhabitants 
 at our lodgings, who have manifested civility and kindness. 
 
 " I hope we shall leave this place after attending two meetings 
 to-morrow. Bonds and afflictions are our companions both in 
 towns and country places ; and my desire is to be strengthened 
 to endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ ought to do, 
 even to the end of this journey, and in and through whatsoever 
 my merciful Lord may be pleased to lay upon me, to the end of 
 my pilgrimage. I sympathize with thee, my dear friend, under 
 thy continued exercise,* although I may not at present write 
 much on this subject. I have admired at seasons how it was 
 with me before I wrote to thee from Virginia : perhaps I may say, 
 that not a day passed, and frequently in the day, without thy 
 being brought feelingly into remembrance, until I relieved my 
 mind, by writing to thee, since which, that weight of solicitude 
 has abated. I still believe, that as thou patiently waitest, a day 
 of deliverance will come, and that thy labours in a foreign land 
 will not all be like water spilled upon a stone. 
 
 " My love to thy dear wife, and father, Isaac Zane, — may his 
 bow abide in strength to the end. O, how precious to behold such 
 greenness in advanced age ! Such may well be compared to Caleb, 
 who feel as strong in spirit for the Lord's work, as when he first 
 led them out of Egypt's land. 
 
 " I had like to have forgotten to mention, that I received a 
 bundle of books since we came to this place, which I have parcelled 
 
 * John Pemberton was concerned to pay a visit on the continent of Europe. He had 
 then been but a few years returned from England. 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OE THOMAS SC ATTERGOOD. 
 
 87 
 
 out and sent back into the country, to the care of Friends in 
 remote places, to lend to their inquiring neighbours, and have 
 written such a request in them. Some went to Edisto, where 
 there appears to be a considerable stir among the Methodists ; one 
 or two 1 sent to a Baptist preacher, who I heard was well pleased 
 with being at one of our meetings, although I thought it a low, 
 exercising time ; and some others I have engaged a Friend either 
 to send or take himself, to a man who treated us with much 
 Christian love, on our way from Tom's Creek to Bush River. 
 Indeed, I have thought that some of our rich merchants, who 
 have traded long in temporals in our favoured city, might open an 
 enriching trade in spiritual things, to some of these back parts, 
 where the name of a Quaker is hardly known, by taking a waggon 
 load of books, and judiciously distributing them, — and thus be 
 engaged in laying up treasure in heaven, where neither moth nor 
 rust can corrupt, nor thieves break through and steal. 0 ! that the 
 day may be hastened when men will be more engaged to spread 
 the noble Truth of God, than to be laying up treasures here on 
 earth, to the corrupting, and I fear, to the utter destruction of 
 some of their children." 
 
 " 2A-th. — Attended meetings in the forenoon and afternoon, which 
 were small ; and although trying to my spirit, and the labour 
 exercising and close, yet I was favoured with a solemn calm, which 
 was precious, and a belief that the Lord has witnesses in this 
 licentious place, and my heart yearned towards them in their 
 several places of worship. We had the company of a goodly 
 Methodist at J. K.'s ; and another good man told me his state 
 was spoken to, and he hoped it would prove a blessing to him : he 
 also seemed desirous we might appoint a meeting amongst them, 
 signifying there would be a willingness amongst his brethren to 
 come ; to which I could say but little. We had a pretty solid 
 sitting this evening in D. L.'s family, with divers other Friends ; 
 and my dear companion, says the meetings in this place were solid 
 and profitable ; that he beheld the tears trickling from the eyes 
 of some, to whom he felt much love ; may the Lord be praised for 
 preservation, and so favour us that we may do nothing against tho 
 Truth ; for it appears that no mighty works are to be done here. 
 
 " 'loth. — Arose from my bed peaceful in mind, and conclude to 
 stay until to-morrow in this place. 
 
 " 26th.— Set off after breakfast, and a solid tendering oppor- 
 tunity with D. L.'s family, and parted tenderly from them, and 
 
88 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 also some of the blacks, and were accompanied by several Friends 
 about sixteen miles. After we parted from them 1 had a broken 
 time on the road, in considering our lonely situation in a strange 
 land, and feeling such great poverty : however, we travelled along 
 and comforted one another. Stopped and fed our horses near sun- 
 set, and afterwards rode nine miles to M. M.'s, and lodged, where 
 we found a quiet house and no company, which was a comfort to 
 my exercised mind. 
 
 " 27th- — We are indeed strangers in a strange land, yet mer- 
 cifully favoured with quietness and patience — a favour for which 
 I am thankful. Set off after the rain was over, and rode to 
 Nelson's ferry on the river Santee, about eighteen miles, where 
 we found the water so high, that they would not put us over ; 
 which was a discouraging prospect. They told us we must ride 
 up the river ten miles, to Maningoe's ferry ; so we set off in 
 company with a woman who was at a store by the river-side, and 
 said she was going home about five miles, and would put us in 
 the way through the plantations. We accordingly accepted of 
 her kindness, and after we had refreshed ourselves at her house, 
 we concluded to stay all night. This is a trial of faith and 
 patience, but I found it good ior me to turn my mind to feel after 
 that Fountain of love and goodness, which I at times recommend 
 to others. ' Thy Maker is thy husband, thy Redeemer the Holy 
 One of Israel, the God of the whole earth shall he be called.' O! 
 that I may hold fast my confidence in him ! Spent part of this 
 evening in reading Benjamin Holmes' Serious Call to the man 
 and wife, some of the children, and a young man, a store-keeper 
 who lodged here — I hope to some profit. I should myself have 
 felt more comfortable if I had abode in true contentment. O ! 
 what a very poor creature I sometimes feel like, when I only 
 deviate as in a tittle from the pure law of life. 0 ! that my slip- 
 pings may be instructive to me, and bring me more and more 
 into the divine fear." 
 
 28th. — After crossing several streams and swamps, which was 
 attended with considerable hazard, they arrived at Manchester, 
 where they lodged : in relation to this ride, he remarks, " A 
 desert, lonely ride this afternoon ; but what are all these outward 
 light afflictions compared to that sense of poverty and distress 
 which my poor soul has been plunged into this day. Where are 
 all boasted acquirements, when the Lord is pleased to veil Ids 
 sweet presence, and leave the soul to combat with death and 
 sorrow. 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTEUGOOD. 
 
 89 
 
 " Third Month 1st. — Very poor and distressed this morning, 
 and hardly ever felt more so than on the road : a wilderness ride 
 indeed both inwardly and outwardly. Lord, be graciously pleased 
 not to leave me in my distress, but help thy poor servant ; is the 
 cry of my soul. 0 ! that I may be more and more redeemed, and 
 my body made a temple for the Lord my God. What is man 
 when deprived of the sweet incomes of his love. I have borne 
 chastisement, and I desire not to offend ; that which I see not 
 teach thou me, and if I have done any iniquity, purge me and 
 enable me to do so no more. 0, the bitterness of death ! would 
 to God the children of men, the unthoughtful children of men, 
 would consider and turn from their transgressions, that so iniquity 
 may not prove their ruin. Stopped after riding about twenty 
 miles, — Josiah's mare appears sick and will not eat ; but we got 
 into Camden about two hours before night, where a kind man 
 took us in, and very hospitably cared for us. We sat on our 
 horses some time in the street, waiting for him, while a negro man 
 went to seek him, hardly knowing what to do, or where we should 
 lay our heads. After breakfast next day, being greatly tried 
 between a prospect of staying and going, 1 was favoured to hear a 
 language like this, ' it is enough, move forward ;' so we parted 
 from these hospitable people and some others, after expressing 
 what rested on my mind. They would take nothing for our stay 
 with them, and sent their good wishes after us, and a goodly old 
 farmer present gave us a hearty blessing. Now my spirit was set 
 a little more at liberty, and although we set off in the rain, the 
 road was pleasant and delightful, because the darkness and death 
 were in some degree removed, and my dear companion and I had 
 a solid profitable conversation respecting our various trials, and 
 the Lord's mercy and care over us hitherto ; which was a season 
 of setting up our Ebenezer. 
 
 " 6th. — To Gum Swamp meeting, which was large, some of our 
 friends getting up before day to give notice. I went to it in great 
 poverty, and after a time, apprehended I felt a little opening to 
 stand up, but found it hard work to get along, and after I had stood 
 some time, the carelessness and inattention of the people appeared 
 great, insomuch that I was defeated in my first prospect, and I was 
 under a necessity to sit down, believing it safest so to do, as Truth 
 rose not. But toward the close of the meeting, I ventured to stand 
 up again, and then had close and searching things to deliver, to a 
 state that is always ready and full of activity, in the will of the 
 creature, and had to tell them that there were sighs and groans 
 which at seasons cannot be uttered, which were more acceptable 
 
90 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 than a multitude of words, songs, prayers, &c, in man's will and 
 time. Dined at J. T.'s ; after which, and kneeling down in their 
 family and praying for the help and protection of the true seed, 
 scattered in this desert country, and that the Lord Almighty might 
 turn, and overturn all false ways and worships, and make way for 
 the worship of his dear Son in spirit and in truth, we left them, 
 and called at W. B."s, who has given up to accompany us. We 
 got to our friend M. C.'s, at Pedee, twenty miles, after night. I 
 have since understood there was occasion for the singular line in 
 which I was led at Gum Swamp meeting, — one appearing amongst 
 that little company who is a burden, and the Anabaptists much 
 opposed to Friends in the neighbourhood. 
 
 " Sth. — It began to rain hard before day, and continued so until 
 near nine o'clock. We set off, and missed our path to the main 
 road, and had to ride four miles back ; about three miles further 
 we came to a creek which our kind guide entered, putting the 
 wallet containing our victuals and horse feed on his shoulders. It 
 proved so deep as to require him to swim his horse some distance 
 down the stream, and the water came up nearly to his breast. 
 However, he got safely through, and went up to a house which was 
 near, and was directed by a woman to a ford higher up. As we 
 were going to it and had nearly got opposite, he without much 
 thought, being wet before, rode in. This, although narrower, was 
 more rapid, and took his horse from under him ; he kept his feet 
 in the stirrups, and the saddle happily having no girth let the 
 horse loose : he held him by the bridle with one hand, and clung 
 to a bush by the other, until Josiah, who was foremost, got to hia 
 assistance, and both he and the horse were saved. When he came 
 out of the water both feet were in the stirrups, — a deliverance for 
 which I am thankful. We rode up the creek, crossing one little 
 branch after another, until with difficulty we got over, and rode to 
 the house where our guide left his wallet, and whilst he and Josiah 
 cared for the horses, I went and hunted pine knots to make a fire 
 to dry our friend and Josiah, who were very wet. We have been 
 from nine o'clock until one coming four miles. 
 
 " 9th. — Arrived at our friend J. T/s, where we were affection- 
 ately received, and I am afraid of rejoicing overmuch in being thus 
 indulged once more to be in a settlement of my dear friends. 
 
 " 10th. — We went to meeting, [Deep River] and the house 
 could not contain the people : yet it was but a low time ; I had a 
 little opening to stand up with, but although I humbly hope it was 
 from the living spring, yet I could not get along with satisfaction 
 to myself, and so, soon sat down." 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 91 
 
 They proceeded toward Lynchburg, and on the 14th, after a 
 slushy muddy ride got to John PanneFs and lodged. 
 
 " 15th. — At the house where we stopped for breakfast, almost 
 as soon as I got to the fire, the woman looked toward me and 
 addressed me somewhat after this manner ; ' I understand, sir, that 
 you are a man of authority, a minister of the gospel, and a teacher 
 of ignorant ones. I am one of those poor creatures, and should 
 be glad to hear a word of exhortation. - ' I told her I was a poor 
 creature, and had but little for myself, and after some more con- 
 versation on the subject, she dropped it, and went to see about 
 breakfast; and whilst I was eating, was kindly attentive to me. 
 After breakfast I walked abroad under thoughtful exercise of mind, 
 and as I was returning into the house, these expressions fastened 
 on my mind, ' He hath showed thee, O ! man, what is good ; and 
 what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love 
 mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? 1 And 1 felt strength 
 and encouragement to invite her, with her husband and two neigh- 
 bours who were about the house, to sit down ; and I thought we 
 were favoured with a good time ; I understood afterwards by one 
 of our company, that it was much to this religiously minded 
 woman's satisfaction. 
 
 " 16th. — To the Monthly Meeting of South River, which was 
 an open time in the first meeting, and I hope a profitable one in 
 transacting the business, although a searching time ; we got to 
 C. Johnson's near sunset. 
 
 " 17th. — To the First-day meeting, which was large, the house 
 not holding the people ; and I have not experienced such an open 
 time to preach the gospel for months past, and was favoured through 
 the prevalence of Divine goodness, to water and be watered myself. 
 Friends after meeting were affectionately kind to me. Went home 
 with our friend John Lynch near the Meeting-house, and had a 
 solid opportunity in the family, divers others being present. 
 
 " 18th. — Sat down and wrote a letter to the little company of 
 persons who profess with us at Bannister ; principally directed to 
 Elizabeth Hendricks, who was the first that stood forth in the 
 cause of truth in that neighbourhood." 
 
 Extracts from the letter. 
 
 "Lynchburg, Third Month \%th, 1793. 
 "Beloved friend, Elizabeth Hendricks: 
 
 " As it is not likely I shall have an opportunity to see thee, I 
 thought I should be most easy to sit down and inform thee, that 
 
92 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 since I first heard of thy religious concern to be found building up 
 and repairing the waste places in Zion, it has had a sweet savour 
 in my mind ; and the desire of my heart is, that the Lord may 
 strengtben thee to hold on with faithfulness and firmness in the 
 work. Mighty is he who calls forth his devoted children and 
 servants ; mayst thou, dear young woman, with thy dear sister, 
 with whom I gained some acquaintance, thy other relations, and 
 all concerned ones in the neighbourhood, where thy lot is cast ; 
 keep in the divine fear, for in the fear of the Lord there is strong 
 confidence, and his children have a place of refuge to flee unto in 
 every time of need. Therefore, know him to be your sanctuary ; 
 wait upon him in humble depending patience, in all your meetings, 
 and your minds will be animated and lifted up above the world 
 and the fading, perishing things of it. Be often found, through 
 the day, when your hands are emploj'ed about the lawful business 
 of life, lifting up your hearts to God for protection and support. 
 For be assured that there is no state in which preservation from 
 evil and unprofitable thoughts, is more likely to be experienced, 
 than in a habitual and constant intercourse with the God of our 
 lives. When we meet with temptations of various kinds, by often 
 looking to him, a secret yet living hope revives in the midst of 
 tribulation, that the temptation will have an end, and that the 
 Lord will make a way for us to escape, as we hold fast our confidence 
 in him ; as the Scriptures declare, blessed is the man that endureth 
 temptation ; that is, who dares not fly from the Lord in this proving 
 season, which will be but as for a moment to the upright in heart. 
 After these have nobly stood their ground, they receive the crown 
 of life and peace, which the Lord hath promised to all them that 
 love him ; and thus our many and various afflictions and trials, 
 which are necessary to humble us, if rightly abode under, bring 
 us nearer and nearer to the righteous God of our lives. I have 
 heard of singular instances, in which Divine goodness has supported 
 even an individual or individuals, although few in number, who 
 have been concerned to bear a public testimony, by sitting down 
 in a religious meeting in order to wait upon and honour him ; and 
 in time, more have been drawn by such an example to come and 
 do likewise, until at length there has been a meeting of spiritual 
 worshippers gathered, who have been made as lights in a neigh- 
 bourhood. The Lord loves cheerful givers; he loves the gates 
 of Zion, more than all the dwelling-places of Jacob: he loves 
 those who are found watching and keeping the door of their hearts 
 and lips, and he will appear unto such and dispense the bread of 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 93 
 
 life to them. Therefore, as you have begun a good work in the 
 face of the neighbourhood, may you be found seeking strength of 
 the Lord, to enable you to hold on your way : be kindly affectioned 
 one to another, with brotherly and sisterly love, in honour pre- 
 ferring one another : strive to excel one another in innocency and 
 virtuous living, and you will be favoured to see who is to be held 
 in the greatest honour and esteem for the work's sake, even such 
 as live the most exemplary lives. Let no vain glorying or strife 
 be among you ; but remember that he or she who is the least in 
 their own opinion, walking in humility, circumspection and godly 
 fear, is the greatest. May you live in love, and then no doubt the 
 God of love and peace will be with you, and increase you in the 
 increases of his love, favour and acceptance. He will then accept 
 of your offerings, although they may sometimes be no more than 
 a secret sigh and inward groan, which cannot be uttered so as to 
 be heard by others. The acceptable sacrifice to the Lord is that 
 of a broken heart, and a contrite and tender spirit in religious 
 meetings, even when we can breathe forth no more than something 
 after this manner, in inward desire, — Lord I am poor and sorrowful, 
 let thy salvation appear to lift up my soul, and engage it to hold 
 on in the way thou hast cast up for me ; or Lord help me, or I 
 shall faint and fall ; for he who is a pure and spiritual being, hears 
 the groans of the wrestling seed within us. God is a spirit, and 
 they that worship him acceptably, must worship him in spirit and 
 in truth. Therefore keep true in heart : be sincere, — remember 
 that the Lord sees us at all times : sincerity is the life of all our 
 graces, and puts life into all our duties. If we have not sincerity 
 and truth of heart, then all our performances will be no more than 
 a dead thing, offensive in the nostrils of God, who will not then 
 smell our offerings as a sweet savour. 
 
 " My dear companion and fellow-labourer in the work of the 
 gospel, Josiah Bunting, unites in tender desires for your preserva- 
 tion and growth. We thought to have stopped in your neigh- 
 bourhood, but finding that the people on the road knew not how 
 to direct us rightly, and time being but short for us to go to South 
 River Monthly Meeting, we omitted it ; perhaps I may venture 
 to say, that Divine Providence has so ordered it for the best, that 
 your expectation of help from instruments may be disappointed — 
 your attention weaned from man, and that your hearts and hands 
 may be turned to look unto and lean upon the Lord, for in him 
 there is everlasting strength." 
 
94 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 " 19th. — Set off about nine o'clock accompanied by W. H., after 
 a solid religious opportunity with these young friends, and rode 
 forty-five miles. We stopped about the middle of the afternoon 
 at Hood's, the place where we called the family together when 
 S. P. was with us, six months ago, and gave them Joseph Phipps' 
 works, and hope it will be to profit. 
 
 " 20th. — This day rode fifty miles ; stopped by the way at 
 J. F.'s, who appears to be a goodly seeking man : may the Lord 
 enlighten his mind to see the beauty and excellency of Truth. 
 These two long days 1 rides have been peaceful to me, and I do not 
 know that 1 have left an}- thing undone that causes pain. The 
 Lord be praised for his protection and help so far : we arrived at 
 our kind friend Samuel Couch's after seven in the evening. It is 
 ten months this day since I left my habitation. 
 
 " 2ith. — Set off for Genito meeting about an hour before the 
 time, and spent it with dear Mary Pleasants. The meeting was 
 the largest held in this place, the house not containing the people 
 by many ; and continued in silence nearly, or quite two hours, 
 and I thought would have concluded so ; but a degree of strength 
 was at length given, and I trust, I laboured honestly once more 
 amongst them, and hope the meeting ended profitably, although 
 it held three hours and a half." 
 
 In a letter written from Beaver Dam, Virginia, to John 
 Pemberton, he says: — 
 
 " I received thy letter at our friend R. Pleasants, which at 
 that time was comfortable to me, and the tenor of it has been 
 peculiarly so since, in a close trial which overtook me, wherein I 
 had encouragingly to remember this expression contained therein, 
 ' the work of righteousness is peace.' I seem as if I cannot for- 
 bear informing thee, that when I have been riding in lonely and 
 wilderness ways, day after day, and oftentimes in the day, my 
 thoughts have been turned toward thee, insomuch that I have had 
 to pause and inquire with myself, what is the cause that the cogi- 
 tations of my heart are so much fixed on an individual in that 
 great city, where so many dwell whom I nearly love ? Is my 
 beloved friend labouring under close exercise of mind at this 
 season, and am I, a younger brother, made to partake in spirit 
 with him though far separated i At such seasons, as now, thou 
 hast been made near to me, I believe by Him who metes out the 
 portions of all of us by just weight and measure, and who has 
 declared that ' the needy shall not always be forgotten, nor the 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 95 
 
 expectation of the poor perish for ever. 1 And if a sparrow cannot 
 fall to the ground without his notice, surely he will take notice of 
 and record the honest labours of those who, at his command spend 
 many of their days in endeavours to gather souls into his ever- 
 lasting kingdom, even though little fruit may be visible to them. 
 After this manner has my spirit been led to look over thy labours 
 and travels in lands very far remote, and receiving this for an 
 answer, it has been preciously comfortable to me ; ' there shall be 
 a glorious recompense in the resurrection of the just.' 
 
 " I have thought at such seasons that I could say much more to 
 thee, my heart being full, but let this suffice. It is my firm belief, 
 that the Lord was with thee in thy visit among the Orkney 
 Islands, and the seed which thou hast sown in that land, at the 
 command of the great Lord of the whole family of mankind, shall 
 not be gathered up by the wicked one, but in the Lord's time 
 spring up to the praise of his adorable name. With regard to thy 
 present prospect, my desire is, that thou mayst still pray for 
 patience, and be kept in that patience which enables to run the 
 race, and at last obtains the crown. The Lord is on his way, I 
 believe, to set thee at liberty, and no matter how, so that it is 
 seen to be his doing, which will be marvellous in thy eyes. I 
 wish thee to live still in that which dare not think the time long, 
 and which keeps us in true devotion of heart, so as to say, ' here 
 am I, send me.' 
 
 " I am persuaded that the more the wife of thy bosom, thy 
 affectionate companion, comes to be resigned to the will of an 
 all-wise and overruling Providence, the more of the incomes of 
 true and lasting peace she will experience. Submitting to that 
 Divine power which qualifies for every good word and work, in her 
 family and in the church, she will be prepared in Divine authority 
 to say unto others, ' arise ye careless women that are at ease, 
 awake out of sleep ye lukewarm, unconcerned daughters ; let us 
 be in earnest to get our day's work done in the day-time, for the 
 shades of evening advance apace.' And 0 ! that she may ask 
 counsel of God, and wait for it, with regard to thy heavy exercise, 
 that by an entire resignation of heart in all things to the Lord's 
 will, putting away every weight and burden which may arise from 
 the reasoning part, true peace may flow into her heart, and the 
 Lord's will be done in you both, by you and upon you, to the 
 praise of his excellent name in the end — so wisheth your exercised 
 friend and brother, who has written as things arise, in the sim- 
 plicity of a child ; and who is a child, and needs the care and 
 
96 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 the prayers of all those his elders, who love the Lord Jesus in 
 sincerity. 
 
 " We get but slowly along, but for every little act of faith and 
 labour of love, there has been a rich reward bestowed by Him who 
 has a rijrht to our obedience. Dear Josiah is an encouraging:, 
 feeling companion, preserved in much patience under the many 
 singular turns we meet with, which endears him to me. 
 
 " I believe the Lord gave me some place in "s 
 
 heart when at his house, and my prayers are, that the Lord may 
 ' smite both his winter and summer-house, throw down his palaces 
 of ivory, and bring him to mourn in the dust, because of Him 
 whom he hath pierced.' I mourn over him and for him whilst I 
 am writing, because I see what an instrument of good he mijrht 
 have been, and may yet be, I hope, if with unreserved obedience 
 he yields up his will unto the will of the great Author of his 
 being, who can as suddenly meet with him as he did with 
 Nebuchadnezzar of old, when all things may seem to go on plea- 
 santly as to the outward." 
 
 " Third Month 25th. — This morning a sober Anabaptist woman 
 came to see us, and after a solid baptizing opportunity with the 
 familv, and such other Friends as were here, we set off accom- 
 panied by several, and stopped to see a Friend who is confined, 
 where we had another solid opportunity with him, wife and chil- 
 dren ; after which we went to our friend Micajah Crew's at Cedar 
 Creek. The same conflict attended me yesterday, as did in a 
 meeting before at Genito, and I was painfully exercised in treat- 
 ing with an infidel unbelieving state ; and have been told since, 
 that a person was there again, who was at meeting when we were 
 here before ; and it was remarked by his neighbours, that what 
 was then said had come to pass, viz : that the time might soon 
 come, when some would be laid on a sick-bed ; which he was, and 
 has recovered, and then they would have to remember the doc- 
 trine sounded in their ears ; which it seems he did, for he was 
 brought almost to death's door." 
 
 Tn a letter to Rebecca Jones, written from Cedar Creek, Vir- 
 ginia, he says : — 
 
 " Thy sisterly token of remembrance, which came safely to 
 hand at Curies, tended to my encouragement. O ! how good and 
 pleasant a thing it is, when thus separated from our dear brethren 
 and sisters, to find that we have a place in their minds. It must 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 97 
 
 undoubtedly have been so with the Apostle, or he would not have 
 left these feeling- expressions on record, ' Brethren pray for us.' 
 My mind is at seasons sweetly turned toward my beloved friends 
 of our meeting, with secret breathings that you may be kept in 
 your tents, and enabled to worship as in the tent door. These 
 precious seasons of remembrance I am frequently favoured with, 
 when riding along the road, and looking back on my dear friends ; 
 and may I not say that one of the greatest favours I enjoy, is that 
 of sensibly feeling the unity and help of the spirits of my friends. 
 May I ever be so preserved in lowliness, as not to forfeit this 
 precious oneness. My dear sister, the harvest is great, great in 
 these parts, and the labourers very few. I have thought of thee 
 and dear Hannah Cathrall several times lately ; whether there 
 are not sheaves that you and other gifted sisters might come and 
 gather up here in Virginia. Bear with me, for sometimes I think 
 I feel a little of the disposition and spirit of Moses, and would to 
 God there were more made to prophesy, — sent abroad, even unto 
 the four corners of the earth, to declare the way of life and salva- 
 tion through Jesus Christ our Lord. May you remember, that 
 the night is approaching, when none can work, — how necessary is 
 it then to labour at all times and in all places, both at home and 
 abroad, when favoured with a sight and sense of our duty, that so 
 in the evening of the day, this language may happily be ours, ' I 
 have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.'' " 
 
 " 27th. — To the week-day meeting at Cedar Creek, in which I 
 was exercised in very great weakness and poverty ; but I felt easy 
 and quiet after it. 
 
 " 28th. — Spent this day at T. H.'s, the fore part in close 
 thoughtful exercise, seeing no way open to move : this continued 
 until after we had dined, when we went into the sick-room ; and 
 had not sat long, before a sweetness accompanied by a solid exer- 
 cise spread over me, and I desired that the rest of the family might 
 be called in. In this opportunity I was concerned to go on my 
 knees, and beg the continuance of the blessing of preservation to 
 us poor travellers, and that the Lord might be graciously pleased 
 to open a way, where none at times appeared ; to bless and favour 
 the heads of this family and all present ; and be near to our aged 
 parents we had left behind, and comfort and support their minds, 
 as also my dear wife's, and take our dear children more and more 
 under his protection and care : after which 1 had an open time in 
 testimony, which I trust will prove like bread cast on the waters, 
 
 H 
 
98 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 to be found after many days. We then visited three negro fami- 
 lies on this plantation, to our satisfaction : indeed it is a comfort 
 to see some of those people live so reputably and well ; they 
 have rented land of T. H. Spent the evening peacefully and 
 pleasantly. 
 
 " 29th. — Peaceful and easy in mind this morning : 0 ! what a 
 favour to be indulged now and then to feel comfortable and quiet 
 in our allotment ! 
 
 " 30th. — Spent this day at C. T. M.'s, partly in writing. 
 After dinner the black children came in with their books to read 
 their lessons, which they performed cleverly, and I was comforted 
 in beholding such care and attention toward them. O.'s wife came 
 in amongst the men, at the Yearly Meeting, to plead the cause of 
 this people, and she might with propriety do so, seeing she is in 
 her own example what she then recommended to her brethren. 
 0 ! that there were more such in the land. 
 
 "31s#. — To Caroline meeting, where was a gay, mixed assembly; 
 and according to the day, so was the strength afforded to preach 
 the everlasting gospel ; it was an open good time ; several mem- 
 bers of Congress were present, one of whom came to me after I 
 had got into the waggon, and said, ' Permit me to give you my 
 hand, although a stranger, and my best wishes go with you.' 
 
 " Fourth Month 2nd and 3ntf,— Stopped at A. J. "sat Stephens- 
 burg, who accompanied us almost twelve miles on our way to 
 Culpepper. Ate our dinners on the grass by the bank of the Kap- 
 pahannock River, after we had forded it. Grot to J. Gr.'s ; this 
 has been an evening of exercise, feeling for my way, what to move 
 in next. 
 
 " \th. — A heavy time this morning : I cannot see any thing 
 that looks easier than to visit the few families of Friends here, and 
 so am made willing to give up to the prospect, — Lord help me, a 
 poor servant. Sat down with this family, and it was a watering, 
 encouraging time, to the father in particular. We sent for his son 
 and wife; she was with us, but he pleaded that he could not leave 
 his men, who were at work. I hope it was a good time." Several 
 other families were visited this day, in which he was favoured with 
 " baptising seasons," — he remarks, " It has been a day of sweet- 
 ness, — the Lord fulfils his promises to his servants ; He that 
 laboureth receiveth wages, and gathers fruit unto life eternal : 
 blessed be the name of the Lord. 1 ' 
 
 5th and 6th. — He was occupied in visiting the families about 
 Stephensburg, in nearly all of which he describes his services aa 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD 
 
 99 
 
 being well received, and accompanied with a baptising and reaching 
 effect. 
 
 " 7th. — A comfortable, refreshing night. 'I sleep, but my heart 
 waketh ; and it is the voice of my beloved that knocketh. 1 I feel 
 renewed in my bodily powers this morning, for which favour I am 
 humbly thankful. Had a large, open, favoured meeting to-day at 
 Southland, which afforded encouragement to my mind. After I 
 had been pretty largely drawn forth in gospel love to the people, 
 and had sat down, I was concerned to stand up again and address 
 the inhabitants of the little town of Stephensburg in particular ; 
 cautioning and encouraging the merchants and innkeepers to sanc- 
 tify the Lord in their occupations, and the youth to beware of 
 reading pernicious books, such as plays, novels, and romances ; 
 and I trust the meeting ended solidly and well. After it was over, 
 many persons, not of our Society, came and spoke to me, and ap- 
 peared loving. May the Lord have the praise of his own work, 
 whose name and truth have been exalted this day, through the 
 efficacy of his Divine power. It appeared to me, that there will 
 in time be a gathering of such in this neighbourhood, who will be 
 instrumental in the Divine hand to spread the testimony of Truth. 
 
 0 ! saith my soul, may it be so here, and throughout the earth, 
 that praises, high praises, may ascend from sanctified and prepared 
 vessels, to the everlasting, holy and merciful God, who is our only 
 upholder and preserver. Amen. 1 ' 
 
 In a letter to Rebecca Jones, dated Curies, Fourth Month 7th, 
 1793, he writes as follows : — 
 
 " Although it is uncertain when or where this may meet thee, 
 
 1 thought as I felt the springing up of a measure of that love 
 which unites the children of the heavenly Father's family, both 
 present and absent, I would try to write to thee. Thy last letter 
 was sweet and encouraging to my wading mind, which is fre- 
 quently very closely exercised, with earnest desires that I may 
 approve myself, not only unto God and his people, but to others 
 also', a servant who is not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, or of 
 those bonds which are its constant attendants. Unworthy as I 
 feel myself, my lot seems to be cast, more than that of many 
 others, among those whose walks are, as it were, in the streets and 
 lanes of the city, and in the highways and hedges ; and my con- 
 cern is to hold on in faithfulness, clear my way as I go, and endure 
 hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ, that so my return may 
 be with the reward of unshaken peace. I have been absent from 
 
 h 2 
 
100 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 home almost twelve months, and am now turned back again nearly 
 or quite one hundred and fifty miles, and the chief service which 
 presents, seems to be amongst people of other religious persuasions. 
 We have had several meetings in towns and neighbourhoods, where 
 large numbers have gathered, and so far Divine mercy and kindness 
 have been near to support and bear me up. Blessed be the Lord, 
 his goodness and truth have been witnessed, who, even to this day, 
 gives mouth and wisdom, tongue and utterance to those that are 
 living in a humble and abasing sense of the force and truth of those 
 expressions which dropped from his sacred lips, ' Without me, ye 
 can do nothing.' 
 
 " It was pleasing to me to hear of the devotedness of my dear 
 fellow-servants who are going to and fro in the service of the gospel; 
 and that so many have given up to go with the Commissioners into 
 the Indian country.* I feel with and for them, and for dear George 
 and Sarah Dillwyn, and Elizabeth Drinker.-}- I was also glad to 
 find that thou, my sister, who hast been going on thy way in secret, 
 silent travail, art likely to go forth in gospel mission, I trust to 
 water and refresh those abroad, who may be under the like dis- 
 pensation in lonely spots and places. Be thou faithful, dear sister, 
 in thy allotment, that so thy reward may be sure. 0 ! how good 
 is the Lord to those who live in devotedness of heart, fulfilling 
 that ancient declaration ; 'Though ye have lien amongst the pots, 
 yet shall ye be as the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her 
 feathers with yellow gold. 1 May the Lord give the word, and in 
 his time, increase the company of them that shall publish it. 
 
 " We are waiting the coming on of the Yearly Meeting, not 
 without some prospect of further labour out of the pale of our 
 Society, and can say but little more than that I desire to live in 
 that Spirit which enables us to say, ' Thy will be done, -1 even under 
 the most trying dispensations. Tell my dear friend and brother 
 David Sands, that although when I received his letter, I was so 
 dull a scholar that I could not fully understand his language, yet, 
 I have since been led about and instructed more fully, and believe 
 he was favoured with a lively sense of my tried condition. May 
 the Lord preserve him, with my own soul, under his Divine pro- 
 tection and favour, through all the various trials which may yet 
 
 * For some account of the engagements of the Friends who went to the Treaty with 
 the Indians at Sandusky, to which Thomas Scattergood here alludes, see the Journal 
 of William Savery. 
 
 + George and Sarah Dillwyn and Elizabeth Drinker, were under religious concern 
 to visit Great Britain. 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 101 
 
 be permitted to come upon us, and at last crown our end with 
 everlasting peace." 
 
 " 9th. — This morning I took an opportunity whilst we were 
 quietly riding along the road, to inform my companion that a 
 prospect of being at the Yearly Meeting in Virginia, had been 
 resting as a weight and exercise on my mind ; and although at 
 seasons the prospect of getting home to our Quarterly Meeting 
 next month, looked pleasing, yet my will was required to be given 
 up ; to which he did not make any objection. So I left it with 
 him ; and when after a time, I rode up alongside of him again, he 
 spoke encouragingly to me, and wished me not to be cast down 
 under my burdens, but patiently submit to the yoke ; observing, 
 that when I first mentioned my prospect to him, he was prepared 
 for it ; for he had been thinking of the preservations we had been 
 favoured with, and the trials we had been helped through. 
 
 " 1 0th. — Not many at the meeting but Friends ; and it was a 
 season wherein I had to feel sympathy with, and speak encourag- 
 ingly to, a small remnant, exhorting them not to cast away their 
 confidence: the careless also were called unto; and upon the whole 
 it was a good meeting. Put up at Fredericksburg at a tavern. 
 
 " UtL— Got to our friend C. M.'s. 
 
 " 12th. — I feel solitary in again turning my back upon home; 
 nevertheless, O my soul ! hope in, and rely upon, the arm of 
 Divine strength, hitherto mercifully held forth for thy help. 
 
 " I'Sth— C. M. and wife took us to Cedar Creek Monthly Meet- 
 ing, in which I was led to speak, I hope feelingly, and in degree 
 effectually, to a tried state present. 
 
 " 14th, First-day. — Went to meeting. Wait, 0 my soul ! to 
 be found doing the will of thy God, in this thy lonely state. 
 0 ! for preservation to hold out to the end of this journey ; more 
 depth, more patience, more stability and solidity are wanting to 
 carry through and over all. The meeting was large and mixed, 
 and was a favoured season ; the Lord be praised for strength and 
 renewed ability to ease my exercised mind amongst them. An 
 ancient man, T. M., came to me after meeting, and said, ' You 
 did not number my age, for I am four score and five, but you have 
 traced my state from a boy until this day,' &c. A young man 
 came afterward and affectionately took me by the hand, and ex- 
 pressed his desire that the Lord might be my preserver and pro- 
 tector through time, and at last give me an admittance into his 
 everlasting kingdom. 
 
102 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 " 16th. — I am blind and poor this morning, not knowing which 
 way to take, or what to do. 0 ! that I may be preserved in that 
 patience which gains the victory, and be so kept as to do nothing 
 against the Truth. 
 
 " 17th. — To the week-day meeting; and, after it, home with 
 Thomas Terrill. A little before night a number of Friends came, 
 and also an aged man, an Anabaptist ; we were pleased with their 
 kind notice and attention, and their openness and freedom in con- 
 versation ; and we read our certificates to them, mine being directed 
 not only to Friends, but also to solid inquirers after the Truth. 
 One of the company said he was at both the meetings at Rich- 
 mond, and that a gentleman told him, when noticing what I said 
 concerning the abominations acted in that place, that he feared 
 Sodom was not more guilty." 
 
 18th and 19th. — Spent in visiting families ; and on the 20th, he 
 went to Fredericksburg, and appointed a meeting. 
 
 "21s£. — To a large mixed meeting, held in a room over the 
 market-place ; it was quiet and ended well, and my heart is thank- 
 ful for preservation and favour. 
 
 " 22nd. — My mind feels comfortable in looking back over yester- 
 day's work : good is the Lord, may my soul say, and worthy to 
 be trusted in and obeyed. Rode to our friend Thomas Ten-ill's, 
 twenty-eight miles, with a sweet and easy mind. 1 The disciples 
 were not to rejoice that devils were made subject to them, but that 
 their names were written in the Lamb's book of life.' 0 ! that I 
 may more and more learn this great lesson, to rejoice in tribulation 
 as well as in favoured seasons. 
 
 " 23rd. — Visited a family in which we were favoured with a 
 good time. 
 
 " 2Mh. — To meeting, — a crowded and very laborious one; but 
 trust the labour will not be lost. Truth appeared comfortably 
 over us at the close, and I had to stand up and recommend more 
 care and attention to the education of the black children, stirrin<x 
 up the youth in families to engage in the good work of instructing 
 them, many being present of different societies. 
 
 " 28th. — Went to Cedar Creek meeting ; it was a comfortable, 
 peaceful ride there, and most of the meeting a season of sweet 
 silence ; but in the close I had a little to communicate to the weak 
 and feeble of the flock, and in the end to stir up to prize the day 
 of lengthened-out mercy, and whilst the day lasted to do justly 
 and love mercy, lest it might be shortened, and their Judge come 
 as a thief at a time unexpected. Stopped at Thomas Stanley's, 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 103 
 
 accompanied by Micajah Crew and wife, and had a religious oppor- 
 tunity, in which the parents were encouraged to attend to their 
 gifts, and be patient under the various operations of the Divine 
 hand ; also to be careful in the education of their children, who 
 appear lovely. Went home with M. Crew under exercise, it being 
 about nine months since we were first here, and now have to tra- 
 verse the same path again, and at this season in a state of blind- 
 ness. Wait, 0 my soul ! in humble submission, upon thy never 
 failing Helper, for the further unfolding of his will, although thou 
 sittest at present in a state of darkness or want of light. I find a 
 precious, kind brother and fellow-helper in M. Crew. 
 
 " 30th. — A stormy night, and continues so this morning, and I 
 see no opening to move. These dispensations are trials of faith 
 and patience ; but when I remember that all things shall work 
 together for good to those who continue in the obedience of faith, 
 my mind is calmed in the midst thereof. Spent this day also at 
 M. Crew's, the after part in pretty close exercise. 
 
 "Fifth Month 1st. — Though feeling poor and weak, I have 
 ventured to pack up my clothes, and feel willing to go on, if the 
 way opens. Lord, so order and direct my steppings along, as that 
 I may not linger through cowardice and fear. Thou art all-suffi- 
 cient : I trust in thee, O gracious Helper ! Unless thy Divine 
 presence goes with me, take me not hence ; may I not be suffered 
 to go into any further religious labour. I opened the Bible, and 
 cast my eye on the fifty-fourth Psalm, and read it to my comfort. 
 
 " After breakfast set off, accompanied by Micajah Crew, in order 
 to go to our friend Robert Pleasants 1 ; had a sorrowful ride to 
 Curies, and continued to feel so after our arrival. Spent the even- 
 ing heavily, although we met with a very kind reception from this 
 dear aged friend. 
 
 " 2nd. — A morning of heavy conflict ; went to Curies meeting, 
 where were only six white males, three females, and two black 
 women : a time of exercise, but was favoured to pour out my sup- 
 plications among the few who met, and in the end was a little 
 comforted in an assured belief that Truth remains to be Truth, 
 although many of the descendants of those who were valiant for 
 its promotion have forsaken it. I prayed for them, and that the 
 Lord would preserve us. 0 ! for patience to hold out faithfully to 
 the end of this journey, and receive the sheaves of peace. 
 
 " 3rd. — I have spent this day in an exercised condition. Who 
 is so blind as thy servant, or so deaf as thy messenger? O ! what 
 a fearful thing it is to incur that reproof from the Lord, ' Thou 
 
101 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS 8CATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 hast run, and I have not sent thee, therefore thou shalt not profit 
 the people at all.' May I be kept subjectly given up to do his 
 will ; yea, humbly and patiently to wait for the pointing of my 
 heavenly Master's finger, and that more stability and gravity may 
 be the girdle of my loins. 
 
 " 4?th. — A little opening presented, in much weakness and fear, 
 to go towai'ds Petersburg. If thy presence, 0 Lord! go not with 
 me, take me not hence, is the language of my soul. All I desire 
 is clearness of sight, and let thy will be done. Set off, and felt 
 peaceful on the road ; got there between two and three o'clock, 
 and obtained a large room in a tavern for holding a meeting, hearing 
 that the Court-house was to be occupied by an Episcopalian. 
 
 " 5th. — What a poor servant, if worthy to take the name. 
 0 ! for more purity of heart, that so I may be indulged with 
 greater clearness to see the Lord's will, and do it. It was dis- 
 couraging to me when I heard of a meeting advertised to be held 
 in the new Court-house for the first time, and that there was to be 
 a Methodist meeting also, to begin at eleven o'clock. However, 
 our friends took considerable pains to spread the notice of ours, 
 and it proved large, quiet, and satisfactory ; much to the ease and 
 relief of my exercised mind, although I was greatly spent after it. 
 In the afternoon we had a meeting with Friends and such as made 
 any pretensions to own us, which was a comfortable time to me. 
 After I had finished my testimony, my spirit was poured out in 
 humble supplication, in which my own and my companion's family 
 were brought into remembrance. I was so spent with the labours 
 of this day, that I could not sleep as usual, but all was well, peace 
 being the best portion ; for which I am thankful to the Father 
 and Fountain of all our sure mercies. 
 
 " 6th. — After an opportunity with this family, where we stayed, 
 and some of the neighbours, left Petersburg with sweet peace, and 
 rode home with our beloved friend and brother, R. Pleasants. 
 
 " 8th. — Last night was one of mental conflict, and such has 
 been the state of my mind this day ; however, this evening I feel 
 rather easier. I have been delighted frequently, since we have 
 been here, with the singing of birds, particularly between daylight 
 and sunrise. 
 
 " 9th. — To Curies meeting, which was silent, and a deeply ex- 
 ercising, tribulated time to me, as well before as after the meeting 
 was over. 0 ! what a singular path I tread ; yet let not one 
 murmuring thought arise, but wait in patience to see the end of 
 every trying dispensation. My body is weak and reduced by 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 105 
 
 exercise of mind. May T be favoured to hold on in the way that 
 is cast up; for all these sufferings are not on my own account, — 
 there is a cause. Zion lies waste, her walls are thrown down, and 
 her gates are consumed as by fire, her sons gone into grievous 
 captivity, for which I mourn day by day. 
 
 " 1 2th. — Very poor indeed. ' Rejoicing in hope, patient in tri- 
 bulation, continuing instant in prayer, 1 was the advice of the apostle 
 Paul ; and 0 ! that it may yet be, in measure, my experience : 
 hope for a different dispensation, 0 my soul ! Went to Curies 
 meeting once more, where we found a larger gathering than on 
 week-days, but a cloudy, dark time ; yet I ventured to relieve 
 my very pained mind freely, and afterwards felt easier, and spent 
 the remainder of the day so. 
 
 " 15th. — Spent this day quietly at R. P.'s, reading in Thomas 
 Story's life ; opened on that passage where he speaks of the kind 
 treatment of John Bates of Skimino, which brought to my remem- 
 brance the comfortable feeling I was favoured with when at that 
 meeting, and which I had to mention to some of the descendants 
 of this worthy man when they gathered about me after meeting. 
 Some of the children of Benjamin Bates, now living there, ap- 
 peared hopeful ; they were pretty much reached and broken. I 
 copied it, in order to present it to some of them to peruse. 
 
 " \ 6th and 17th. — Attended the meeting of ministers and elders 
 at White Oak Swamp, and the Quarterly Meeting at Wainoak. — 
 The 18th, to the Meeting for Sufferings. 
 
 " \9th. — To a very large and mixed meeting, the house mostly 
 filled up with women. Joseph Cloud and J. Mendenhall appeared 
 in the fore part of the meeting ; but there was such a multitude 
 out of doors, and withal many so uneasy and rude, that it was a 
 cause of grief. My mind was exercised to leave my seat and go 
 to one of the doors, and endeavour to cast off my burden ; my 
 companion followed, and I requested a few Friends to go out of 
 doors and gather the people near the door, and keep them quiet ; 
 and it was indeed a laborious time to speak to such a crowd, so as 
 to be heard within and without the doors. There are no people, 
 whose states and conditions are so distressing and burdensome, as 
 those who have turned away in heart from the simplicity of Truth, 
 and become deistical and unbelieving. O ! how my life has been 
 oppressed with it this day, and often before in this land. 
 
 " 20th. — More people assembled this day than could get into 
 the house, and they appeared to be mostly such as were orderly, 
 and 1 hope a number of goodly seeking ones. The two Hopewell 
 
106 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCA.TTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 Friends appeared in the early part of the evening, after which I 
 had a pretty thorough opportunity, open and relieving to my 
 spirit ; and indeed I felt like another man after it : the Lord be 
 praised for his goodness. 
 
 " 21st. — An open, satisfactory meeting to-day, things being 
 well conducted, and I feel peaceful and easy. 
 
 " 22nd. — To the meeting of ministers and elders at nine o'clock, 
 which was a comfortable, instructive season. At the eleventh hour, 
 the Yearly Meeting sat, to which came Joseph Cloud ; and after 
 a time of silence, he stood up and requested the partition might 
 be opened, for the women to hear, and in a tender manner began 
 with nearly these words : ' You see, my friends, to what a state 
 of bodily weakness I am reduced. I have come this morning to 
 express among you the great desire I feel that all present may be 
 concerned to attend to their gifts ; for all our riches, and the com- 
 forts of this life, will do us but little good when brought to such a 
 state as I am in. I feel resigned and peaceful amongst you, and 
 am glad I am here, 1 &c. After which, I embraced the present 
 season to relieve my mind towards the visited youth. 
 
 " 23rd. — To the adjournment at ten o'clock, and meeting held 
 until near six, and got through the business, which was well con- 
 ducted and to jrood satisfaction, both in this sitting and others. In 
 the close thereof, my mind was drawn forth in love again towards 
 Friends, and the youth in particular ; and it appeared to be a 
 solemn good parting, numbers taking me very affectionately by 
 the hand, and parted in nearness.' 1 
 
 In a letter written from Wainoak, dated Fifth Month 24th, 1793, 
 addressed to his beloved friend John Pemberton, he says : 
 
 " The Yearly Meeting closed yesterday afternoon, and being 
 now released from that service, my mind is exercised with further 
 openings of duty. I have just been conferring with a number of 
 my dear friends respecting another meeting at Richmond on First- 
 day next, and several are engaged to go and prepare the way. I 
 have often had thoughts of attending the Quarterly Meeting of 
 Fairfax, held a little more than two weeks from this time ; and 
 when the prospect has been weightily before me, I have thought it 
 would contribute to the relief of my exercised mind to have it in 
 my power to distribute some valuable small tracts to some of the 
 inhabitants in the Alleghany mountains, in the way between Red- 
 stone and Fairfax. I see the necessity to stir up Friends, when 
 travelling backwards and forwards, to leave such books at public 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 107 
 
 houses and at other places on the way, and have no doubt but 
 some may be engaged in this good work who may attend the next 
 Quarterly Meeting. As there are a number of Friends of the 
 Yearly Meeting's committee likely to attend there, if thou couldest 
 send by some of them I should be glad ; but more so, my dear 
 friend, to see thyself tbus employed in thy usual enriching and 
 useful mode of disseminating useful knowledge. I have had much 
 satisfaction in spreading those sent to Charleston, several of which 
 I brought into Virginia, and gave them to goodly people where 
 Friends mostly put up, and they were cheerfully and kindly re- 
 ceived by them. One of Joseph Phipps 1 books I sent to a young 
 woman at Banister, who has been instrumental to raise up the 
 ruins in that place, by meeting for a season, in the old forsaken 
 meeting-house, by herself, and by her exemplary conduct has 
 drawn others to join her. She has been with us at the Yearly 
 Meeting, and I think bids fair to become a princess among the 
 Lord's people. 
 
 " 1 have had much peace and comfort in my labours in this 
 Yearly Meeting, which has been, I am informed, unusually large. 
 On First-day morning there appeared to be as many people out of 
 doors as would have filled another house as large as the one we 
 were in ; and poor and cast down as I often feel, I have occasion 
 to acknowledge, that the Lord, my gracious Helper, has not for- 
 saken me in the most trying moments. My desire is, that I may 
 fully and faithfully follow Him to the end of this journey ; and 
 also, if further dispensations should be permitted, to exercise my 
 faith and patience. 
 
 " I do not know a more useful book of the size than Benjamin 
 Holme's Serious Call, and believe a couple of dozens might be 
 profitably spread as I have mentioned before. Perhaps some of 
 the Friends will come in carriages, as I fear it will be too late to 
 send them by water to Alexandria. I would have written sooner, 
 but my poverty and blindness is such, that sometimes I cannot get 
 at things until the last pinch. 
 
 " It seems to come before me just to say, that Friends who 
 have had occasion to go on business into some of the towns where 
 we have had meetings, have told me that the people appear much 
 satisfied with them, which has been encouraging to me. Truly it 
 has been a trying dispensation for me, a poor weak one, thus to go 
 out from among Friends ; but I cannot plead excuse in any way. 
 I am blessed with a solid, feeling elder for a companion, and my 
 Lord and Master, from season to season, lifts up my head out of 
 
108 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 a state of great weakness, into which I see it is necessary for me 
 first to be baptised : may His holy name be reverenced and praised 
 for the protection and help vouchsafed ; without which, I know I 
 should faint and fall." 
 
 " 2ith. — After engaging some Friends to be in Richmond early 
 next morning, to see about a meeting there on First-day, went to 
 the widow Ladd's, where I hope we had a seasonable opportunity : 
 we returned back to J. Ladd's, in company with Joseph Cloud, 
 David Vestal, and a number of other Friends ; after which had 
 the family together, and the opportunity proved a solemn, affecting 
 season. Dear Joseph is so weak that he has given up going to 
 Richmond with us, although his prospect on leaving home was to 
 that place and other towns : however, he sat with us, and was 
 favoured to deliver an affecting testimony. Whilst I sat by him 
 in silence, as well as at other seasons, my mind was humbled in 
 beholding his great weakness, now so far from his dear wife and 
 family, and also in a sense of the Lord's goodness to me, in afford- 
 ing so much bodily strength as to move along from place to place, 
 as Truth has opened the way. On the close of his communication, 
 I ventured to kneel down and pray for him, the family and Friends 
 present, for myself and companion in labour, and that the Lord 
 my God might be pleased to continue the wife of my bosom under 
 his protection and favour, and to preserve us in patience, if our 
 faith and love are to be tried by a yet longer separation. After 
 this, I had to labour with some of the children in particular, 
 encouraging those who are in the right way, and cautioning and 
 warning others of impending danger. After which, took a solemn 
 farewell. 
 
 " 25th. — Rode to Richmond, after a satisfactory opportunity 
 with some Friends and the family. 
 
 " 26tk. — Attended the meeting at Richmond, which was large, 
 numbers being out of doors, and much rudeness appeared in some. 
 It was, upon the whole, a quiet meeting, although there were 
 some so hardy as to laugh in my face whilst I was speaking, who 
 met a suitable reproof before all, to their shame. At the close, 1 
 mentioned a prospect I had of a meeting with the black people, at 
 the same place, at five o'clock in the afternoon, and told them it 
 was a delicate thing, but I stood open, if any one had any ob- 
 jection, and wished some of their sober masters to come and be 
 with us. We found afterwards that it was somewhat alarming, 
 but no opposition appeared, and we had a number of them to- 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 109 
 
 gether, with many whites also, in which I had a quiet opportunity 
 to relieve my mind. 
 
 " 27th. — Awoke early this morning, under the weight of a pros- 
 pect which had opened on my mind, to see the little company of 
 Friends here together, and such as go no other way. I had made 
 an attempt yesterday, in the meeting at large, to address them, 
 but found it would not do ; so I now requested Samuel Parsons 
 to collect them together by half-past nine o'clock ; which he did, 
 and we were favoured with a solid, instructive, and I hope bap- 
 tizing opportunity, at least to some. James Mendenhall and his 
 companion, Jonathan Wright, David Vestal, Thomas Harris and 
 wife, staying, we were about thirty in number at J. S. Pleasants'. 
 Josiah, S. Parsons, and I went to bid the mayor, Robert Mitchell, 
 farewell, who had been kind, and attended both meetings : he ap- 
 peared well pleased with that for the negroes, though he said he 
 was solicited by some of the inhabitants to put a stop to it, and 
 that he himself feared it would be of bad consequence ; but I 
 believe none had any occasion to be uneasy. The mayor confessed 
 that the doctrine was suitable to them, and to the whites also. 
 
 " 0 ! the wickedness and the abominations of this little city. 
 Is it any wonder at all that I have gone through the sufferings 
 which I have ? But thanks be given to Him who is ever worthy, 
 on leaving the mayor, and telling him how the mountebanks'' sign 
 which hung out in the street, and their other wicked doings, struck 
 at my life, and leaving it with him, I felt, on walking away, re- 
 lieved and peaceful. Left the place between one and two o'clock, 
 and rode in company with several Friends, pleasant and easy in 
 mind. 
 
 " 30th. — To Genito meeting, in which my mind was exercised 
 on account of a visited seed hereaway, and I was drawn forth in 
 love to them : it appeared to be a watering season. 
 
 " Sixth Month 1st. — We had thought of going on to Southland 
 to-day, but 1 felt unwell, and withal my mind was turned towards 
 the First-day meeting here, and we concluded to stay ; and, after 
 breakfast I went to bed. In and through all, may I yet be fa- 
 voured not to give way to the drawings of the affectionate part 
 homeward, but say with resignation of mind, ' Here am I, Lord ; 
 thou hast hitherto been my support, protection, and help, and 
 canst keep that which thou hast enabled me to commit to thy care.' 
 
 " 2nd. — Went to the meeting at Caroline, which was crowded, 
 and an open time, — divers expressed their gladness to see us 
 again, though very unexpected. 
 
110 
 
 MEMOIUS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 " 5th. — To Southland meeting, which was large. I felt very 
 poor and sat nearly or quite two hours in silence, very different 
 from the time we were here before. The desire of the people 
 seemed strong to hear words ; and although — something arose 
 to communicate, it was to me a poor low time; — called after- 
 wards to see a sick Friend, and although I felt very poor here, 
 yet on parting she said to me, ' I love thee and have been 
 refreshed.' 11 
 
 After an opportunity in a friendly man's family, with whom 
 they put up for the night, they pursued their journey and arrived 
 at Mahlon Janney's at Hopewell. 
 
 " 7th. — Wait on thy God, 0 my soul ! This place was the 
 beginning: corner for me this time twelve months, when entrance 
 into a large field of labour opened with clearness ; wait with 
 humble submission to be rightly informed what thou must do 
 next. It has been of late a time of temptation and trial to 
 me, and I have had to feel what a wretched condition it is not to 
 experience the sweet presence of Jesus Christ our Lord. But 
 why should I complain? Do not such dispensations prepare the 
 soul for the enjoyment of greater degrees of Divine love and life ? 
 0 Lord ! may what I have passed through, and what I may yet, 
 in thy sovereign will, have to pass through, qualify me to live 
 answerably to thy goodness and truth, if favoured to return to 
 mv house in peace ; for thou hast been a God of truth to me, thy 
 unworthy servant, in this journey." 
 
 In a letter written from Hopewell, Virginia, to his beloved 
 friend John Pemberton, he says : 
 
 " I have remembered it was not far from this place, that thou 
 with other Friends, wast held in a state of banishment from all 
 that was near and dear to you in this life, and that the Lord's 
 preserving hand supported you through and over all, and restored 
 thee to thy temporal comforts again. Afterwards the Lord called 
 for a free-will offering at thy hand, even to surrender them all 
 again, and become a sojourner for years in a strange and distant 
 land ; and he has been with thee in heights and in depths unto 
 this day, and has not forsaken thee even in the most trying 
 moments. A sense of these things has caused my heart to rejoice 
 on thy account, and also on my own, who am a poor pilgrim and 
 stranger in a strange land, separated from wife and children, 
 houses and lands, for the gospel's sake ; yet I am mercifully cared 
 for by the Shepherd of Israel, who puts his sheep forth and goes 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 Ill 
 
 before them. I have indeed great occasion thus to speak well of 
 his excellent name, for his goodness to me in this present proving 
 journey. Thy kind attention and sympathy before I left home, 
 as well as that of other Friends, have been a strength to me. Ah ! 
 what a poor, solitary, and I was going to say, benighted creature, 
 have I sometimes felt like, before I have given up thus to leave 
 all that is comfortable at home, and run the Lord's errands ; 
 somewhat like a season of preparation, wherein I could take but 
 little delight in any thing about me, or in myself. But the Lord 
 has made it up to me when I have cheerfully left all to follow 
 him ; and my heart is tendered under a sense of his love whilst 
 thus writing to thee. I believe I am afresh enabled to feel and 
 sympathize with thee, with earnest desires that thou mayst be 
 favoured to live in a state of dedication under all thy provings for 
 the gospel's sake ; most assuredly believing, that a way will be 
 made for thee through the cloud and through the sea. I have 
 had near fellowship with thee in thy exercises when abroad on 
 Truth's service, when I have been with thee, and have looked 
 upon it as an honour to take part with thee as an elder brother. 
 I write with great freedom, for my heart is enlarged, and the love 
 I feel is, I trust, that which casts out all fear. I know thou hast 
 many discouragements in getting along, and thinkest little of 
 thyself ; and sometimes I have feared, that the great discourager 
 of the Lord's work would willingly persuade thee to think thy 
 gift little also, less than many of thy brethren. Never didst thou 
 do me more good as an instrument, than the day I left home ; 
 and thy extension of fatherly care to me at Shrewsbury remains 
 precious to me until this time, and has been helpful to me in this 
 journey. 
 
 " Should this reach thee in time, present my love to Mary 
 Ridgway, Jane Watson, Samuel Emlen, and Sarah Harrison ; 
 [about to embark for England,] may the Lord's preserving hand 
 be with them on the mighty ocean ; accompany the former to 
 their outward habitations with sheaves of peace in their bosoms, 
 and with the latter as a pillar of fire and cloud through all their 
 journey. 
 
 " The harvest is indeed great, and the labourers few : I think 
 of my dear gifted brethren and sisters of Philadelphia, with 
 desires that more of them might give up to go abroad on the 
 Lord's errands, for we have received many favours, I mean the 
 little company in that city; and I believe more would be drawn 
 abroad in Truth's service, if the reasoner was shut out and barred 
 
112 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 against. Tlie Lord on high is mightier than the noise of many 
 waters ; yea, mightier than the raging waves of the sea." 
 
 " 8th. — Attended the select meeting, and had a close searching 
 testimony to deliver ; things appearing low. 
 
 " 9th. — Met with Hannah Cathrall and companions, Hannah 
 Mitchell and Edward Garrigues, who brought me letters from 
 home. In the evening, we had a sitting with this family and a 
 number of others. 
 
 " 10th. — In the fore part of the meeting to-day I was silent; 
 but in conducting the business I had my exercise respecting 
 the low state of things — the declension of the aged and the 
 deviations of the youth. 
 
 " l\th. — We have the company of George Churchman and 
 William Cole of Deer Creek, Maryland, and James Emlen of 
 Middletown, Pennsylvania. Met a committee of the. Quarterly 
 Meeting appointed yesterday, to take into consideration the 
 matter depending between Hopewell and Crooked Run Monthly 
 Meeting, and the Yearly Meeting of Pennsylvania ; in which I 
 trust I was favoured uprightly to discharge myself : after the 
 breaking up of the committee, I went into the youths 1 meeting, 
 which was very large, a number being out of doors. Ruth Kirk 
 and Hannah Cathrall had testimonies to deliver, of an awakening 
 tendency ; after which, although in the other two meetings I [had] 
 sat peacefully silent, I felt my mind drawn forth in a close and 
 searching testimony, from the parable of the ten virgins. I hope 
 on the whole it was a profitable and instructive season, although 
 things are low. Went to M. Janney's and dined, and about the 
 middle of the afternoon believed it right to make some preparations 
 for going, as my way opens with some degree of clearness now 
 after this meeting, to proceed homewards. We sat down with a 
 large company of young and old, who came in, and I took my 
 leave of them in a solid and baptising opportunity, and concluded 
 to stay until morning. 
 
 " 1 2th. — This morning before we set off, came W. H. and 
 wife to take leave ; we sat down together with the family, 
 Hannah Cathrall and her companion, &c. I had to speak of the 
 many favours we had received, and deliverances in this journey, 
 and that my dear Lord and Master had set me at liberty to 
 return home from this place. I had also to mention and com- 
 memorate the deep wadings I had to go through in this place 
 many years ago, before my mouth was opened in testimony, and 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 113 
 
 now I could reverently acknowledge that the Lord was in this 
 place, although I then knew it not, as now. Jioth S. Janney 
 and Hannah Cathrall bore testimony to the goodness of the Lord 
 — the first with a belief, that sheaves of peace would be our 
 portion on our return ; and the latter in like manner, but with 
 the caution, to rejoice in the Divine fear, &c. ; that we should 
 yet have to taste of the wormwood and the gall. It was a precious 
 time, and we parted in near affection. Stopped at Joseph Janney's 
 and had a baptizing time with some of the children. Crossed 
 the Potomac to a house where they kindly refreshed our bodies ; 
 and in a religious opportunity afterwards, I believe the Lord 
 refreshed and encouraged their souls in the way of well-doing. It 
 ■was a precious season, both to parents, grandmother and children, 
 and encouraging to me in a sense that I am in my place on the 
 way home, so we left them peaceful and easy. 1 ' 
 
 After this he had no further religious labour, but returned 
 directly home, where he arrived on the loth of the Sixth Month, 
 1793; in relation to which, he says, " I met an open, loving 
 reception from my dear helpmate in life, mother, children, and 
 the rest of my family, after an absence of thirteen months, 
 wanting five days ; for which, and all other blessings and favours 
 received at the Lord's hand, my mind is bowed in thankfulness to 
 Him who is worthy of obedience, glory, and honour, and praise; 
 who puts his ministers forth, goes before them, and at seasons 
 seals life and peace to their souls. And although I know it is 
 my duty to sit down in this low condition spoken of by our blessed 
 Lord ; ' After ye have done all that I command you, say we are 
 unprofitable servants, we have done no more than was our duty to 
 do ;' nevertheless, it is in my heart also to leave this record, that 
 I have lacked nothing : the Lord has brought me through all my 
 exercises, I trust measurably to the honour of his great and holy 
 name, although many and singular they have been, even unto 
 the banks of deliverance and praise. And 0 ! that I may be 
 favoured still to remain under his heavenly notice, protection and 
 care, through the further probation yet to be met with, unto 
 the end of my days, and be counted worthy in the solemn close 
 of time here, together with my bosom friend, dear aged mother 
 and children, to rest in the kingdom of righteousness and peace, 
 with the generations of those who have gone before, and follow 
 after" 
 
 Under date of Tenth Month 6th, 1793, the following memo- 
 randum occurs, which appears to be the first made after his return 
 
114 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 from the above visit ; giving a brief summary of his religious 
 labours for some years previous, and commemorating the mercy 
 and goodness of his Lord and Saviour. 
 
 " Ten years have passed over since I was laid on a bed of sick- 
 ness, and brought near to the gates of death. It was indeed a 
 very humbling, proving dispensation ; inwardly, because of great 
 poverty and stripping, — and outwardly, because of sore and long 
 continued weakness. But the Lord raised me up, and sent me 
 into the back parts of New England, and brought me home in 
 peace. Since that time I have been strengthened to perform a 
 pretty general visit, as before mentioned, to Friends in the 
 government of New York, with my beloved friend James Mott ; 
 and again, into some of those parts with my beloved friend John 
 Cox, of Burlington ; and on our return attended Rahway Quar- 
 terly Meeting, where I was singularly exercised, and a sorrowful 
 circumstance afterwards occurred ; and also visited most of the 
 little towns in that neighbourhood. Shortly after, 1 visited New 
 Jersey, in company with my friends John Cox, Nathan Smith, 
 and James Whitall ; also Bucks county, with Nathan Smith. 
 Last year I went through the southern governments as far as 
 Georgia, accompanied by my dear friend Josiah Bunting, who 
 was a true yoke mate — returning from this last long journey of 
 nearly thirteen months, in the Sixth Month last. In all these I 
 may humbly and with reverence acknowledge, that the Lord was 
 my Helper and Preserver through many and very singular trials, 
 and always brought me home in peace : and now there is a fresh 
 scene of trial open in this city, such as neither we nor our fathers 
 ever saw. The awful messenger of death is travelling through 
 the streets, as from house to house, and removing from works to 
 rewards, many not only of the inhabitants at large, but also of the 
 members of our religious Society, some of whom I nearly loved, 
 and who promised to fill up with propriety, their stations in the 
 church militant on earth. Not a few of our brethren have left the 
 city, so that we are reducing daily, by deaths and removals into 
 the country. A sense of all these things has closely exercised 
 my mind from day to day, for some time past, and I have seen 
 nothing better than quietly to remain in my habitation, where I 
 have had frequent occasion to believe Divine Providence has 
 placed me ; and daily to feel after a qualification, through holy 
 help, to say, Lord preserve me on the living and sure foundation, 
 that my faith in thy all-sufficiency may not fail. Thou hast 
 been my protection and help through many trials, inward and 
 
1703.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 115 
 
 outward, in days past ; and now, dearest Father, look down in 
 tender mercy on me and my family, and enable me, with tho 
 wife of my bosom, to resign our own and one another's lives to 
 thee, and if thou art pleased to call for mother, son, or daughter, 
 0 ! sanctify and prepare our hearts for such a dispensation ; or 
 if in thy unsearchable wisdom and mercy, thou art pleased to 
 continue any or all of us a little longer on earth, may devotion 
 and dedication of heart be mine and theirs ; and so thy will 
 be done." 
 
116 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 1793, 1794. A BRIEF NARRATIVE OF THE YELLOW FEVER IN 
 
 PHILADELPHIA IN 1793 — EXTRACTS FROM HIS JOURNAL RELATING 
 
 THERETO HAS A PROSPECT OF A RELIGIOUS VISIT TO GREAT BRITAIN 
 
 AND IRELAND OBTAINS CERTIFICATES AND EMBARKS FOR ENGLAND 
 
 IN 1794 — EXTRACTS FROM A LETTER WRITTEN TO HIM BY REBECCA 
 
 JONES, " TO BE OPENED WHEN AT SEa" UNDERGOES DEEP BAPTISM 
 
 OF SPIRIT ON HIS VOYAGE LANDS AT LONDON — EXTRACT FROM ONE 
 
 OF HIS LETTERS. 
 
 Thomas Scattergood remained in the city during the yellow 
 fever of 1793, and although some allusion is made to the disease 
 in his memorandums, yet it has been thought a more particular 
 account would be acceptable, and the following brief narrative has 
 therefore been prepared. 
 
 So many years have elapsed since the general prevalence of 
 the yellow fever in our highly favoured city, that but few of 
 the present generation can have an adequate idea of the alarm 
 and distress produced by this awful dispensation of Divine 
 Providence. 
 
 This malignant disorder, which, in the space of about three 
 months, swept away nearly four thousand persons, made its 
 appearance in the latter end of the Seventh Month, in Water 
 Street, between Mulberry and Sassafras Streets. It was some 
 time before it attracted much attention, but it gradually extended 
 to Front Street and other parts adjacent — its greatest ravages 
 being nearest the river Delaware ; and by the middle of the 
 Eighth Month, considerable alarm began to appear among the 
 citizens, many of whom fled to the country and other places, 
 where they supposed they would be secure from its attack. The 
 number of deaths continued to increase — during the Eighth 
 Month, the daily average was about eleven, — in the Ninth Month 
 it was nearly fifty ; the greatest number being ninety-six, and on 
 two other days eighty-one and ninety-two ; and in the Tenth 
 Month it was nearly sixty ; the highest number being one hun- 
 dred and nineteen, and on the days preceding and subsequent, 
 one hundred and eleven and one hundred and four persons respec- 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 117 
 
 tively, died. When we consider the comparative smallness of the 
 population in the city at that time, it is not surprising that the 
 steady progress of the disease, and its great mortality should have 
 spread terror among the inhabitants. The shops were shut up, 
 the streets very much deserted, so that few persons or vehicles 
 were to be seen in them, save the wheels of those on which the 
 dead were conveyed to the grave, and the persons who attended 
 them. All pomp and show at funerals were dispensed with, and 
 the remains of the most worthy and respectable citizens were 
 committed to the earth in the most simple manner, and in the 
 presence of few, if any, more than necessity required. Pride and 
 ostentation were laid in the dust, — the high and the low, the rich 
 and the poor, were reduced to a common level ; and the anxious 
 inquiring thought of most minds seemed to be, " Who will go 
 next \ Will it be me ? " 
 
 The disorder being considered contagious, the fear of contracting 
 it, in many instances, overcame the feelings of natural affection ; 
 and persons who had been accustomed to all the comforts and atten- 
 tions which wealth and the tenderest connexions in life could bestow, 
 on being seized with the malady were wholly deserted and left to 
 die alone ; or abandoned to the care of mercenary nurses, whose 
 chief object was their own ease and emolument, and who often ne- 
 glected the unhappy invalids entrusted to their care. Some died 
 entirely alone, and the houses where they were, being deserted, 
 the first intimation that a dead body was there, was the noisome 
 effluvia it emitted while undergoing decomposition. 
 
 A person employed in carrying the sick and dead, passing along 
 the street, heard the cry of some one in great distress, and the 
 neighbours informed him, that the family had been ill for some days, 
 but that the fear of the disease had prevented them from venturing 
 to examine the house. The man cheerfully undertook the bene- 
 volent task, and on going up stairs, he found the father of the family 
 dead, who had been lying on the floor some days ; two children 
 near him also dead ; the mother, who was very ill, gave birth to 
 another child, which, with herself also died while he remained ; 
 thus making five persons dead in one house at the same time. This 
 event, among many others of somewhat similar character, will give 
 a better idea of the awful and heart-rending scenes exhibited, dur- 
 ing the prevalence of this humbling and distressing calamity, than 
 any description that can be written. It is calculated deeply and 
 seriously to impress the mind with the weakness and helplessness 
 of man, when the judgments of the Almighty are poured out ; and 
 
118 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 also with a sense of his great mercy in sparing us of the present 
 day from such suffering, not because we are more righteous, but 
 because He is lontj-sufferino: and slow to anijer. 
 
 Do O 
 
 The general consternation became so great, that of those whose 
 particular province it was to have the oversight of the poor, all fled 
 except three ; and the distress and suffering among this destitute 
 class of citizens became so urgent, that a public meeting was called 
 to devise measures for their relief and assistance. At this meeting 
 ten persons voluntarily offered their services to aid the overseers 
 of the poor ; and at a subsequent meeting others were appointed, 
 making the whole number twenty-seven ; but owing to sickness, 
 death and other causes, the work chiefly devolved on twelve, who, 
 with some others that afterwards offered their services, laboured 
 daily, with untiring zeal, in this work of benevolence, and were 
 the instruments of affording .essential benefits to their suffering 
 fellow-creatures. Of the whole number thus employed, but one 
 now survives, our aged and beloved friend Thomas Wistar ; his 
 last companion, John Letchworth, having deceased about a year 
 ago. Daniel Offley, an eminent and beloved minister in our So- 
 ciety, impressed with a sense of religious duty, and commiserating 
 the accumulating distresses of his fellow-citizens, offered his ser- 
 vices to the committee on the 30th of the Ninth Month, and from 
 that time continued to exert himself indefatigably in this work of 
 humanity until he was seized with the distemper, which, in a few 
 days brought him to the grave, deeply lamented by all who knew 
 him. A few days before his death, being in company with Thomas 
 Wistar and another Friend, when they were about to part, he 
 solemnly observed to his companions, " The language of this dis- 
 pensation to each of us is, ' Be ye also ready, for at such an hour as 
 we expect not, the messenger of death may be sent to our houses.' " 
 They separated never to meet again in mutability, both the others 
 dying in a few days. Daniel Offley was taken ill on the 3rd of 
 the Tenth Month, and throughout his sickness evinced a cheerful 
 serenity of mind, being entirely resigned to the will of God, in 
 whom his confidence appeared unshaken; and on the 11th of the 
 same month, in the thirty-seventh year of his age, he quietly de- 
 parted, to inherit a crown of glory that shall never fade away. 
 
 Charles Williams, another valued minister, who was companion 
 to Thomas Scattergood in his journey to Hopewell and Redstone, 
 in the year 1787, also died of the yellow fever on the 9th of the 
 Tenth Month 1793, aged twenty-nine years, and about the ninth 
 of his appearance in the ministry. Being of a tender and sympa- 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 119 
 
 thizing disposition, and his heart softened and animated by Divine 
 love, he was a kind friend to the poor and those under affliction, 
 whom he often visited ; and in the time of the great mortality, he 
 was much devoted to the relief and assistance of the sick, to whom 
 he was indeed a messenger of consolation. The following memo- 
 randum made by him, is worthy of note: "Ninth Month 1st, 
 1793. — It is affecting to observe the change which has taken place 
 in this industrious city, where business appeared to be the life of 
 many, and each one strove to exceed his neighbour in care to gather 
 wealth. Now a stop is put to this, — little business is transacted, 
 and the minds of many are awakened to consider what is the state 
 of their last and solemn account. A serious solemnity appears on 
 almost every countenance ; and I hope, by myself and others, this 
 visitation may never be forgotten." 
 
 During his illness he was favoured with a blessed confidence in 
 Divine mercy, which took away all fear of death, and his spirit 
 departed to a better inheritance, in peace with God and man. 
 
 A number of other valuable Friends, including several ministers 
 and elders, were removed by the disease, but even when it was at 
 the worst, Friends kept up their meetings for Divine worship ; 
 and though they were often small, yet they were crowned with a 
 solemnity, in some degree corresponding to the greatness of the 
 sacrifice in going to them, and were often seasons of humbling 
 contrition. 
 
 A number of Friends whose minds were deeply exercised with 
 regard to remaining in the city or going away, and who were en- 
 gaged to " seek the Lord, for a right way for themselves, their 
 wives and their little ones," had a clear sense given them that it 
 was their duty to stay. 
 
 The Yearly Meeting occurred during the time the disorder was 
 prevailing ; and a number of Friends from the country attended, 
 being impressed with a sense of religious duty to do so ; — and the 
 several sittings were considered peculiarly solemn and favoured. 
 
 Elizabeth Collins thus notices it in her memorandums, viz : 
 " In the Ninth Month, 1 793, I attended the Yearly Meeting in 
 the time of the sickness, called the yellow fever. On Seventh-day 
 crossed the river and attended the select Yearly Meeting, which 
 was a good one, our hearts being bowed in thankfulness to the 
 Father of all our mercies. First-day attended Newtown Meeting 
 to good satisfaction : hearing some very discouraging accounts, 
 [respecting the sickness,] I felt great weakness and stripping, yea, 
 leanness of spirit, and my faith seemed taken from me. Before I 
 
120 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 left home my great and good Master had condescended to inform 
 me, that if I would go and keep my place, my life should be given 
 me for a prey, and that according to my faith so should it be unto 
 me. I spent the night without sleep until near day, when my faith 
 again revived and I got some sleep : awoke with thankfulness of 
 heart to the Author of all good. 
 
 " Second-day morning crossed the river with bowedness of spirit, 
 and attended the forenoon meeting, which was a solid time. The 
 representatives being called, but few answered to their names, and 
 from three of the quarters, not one. 
 
 Third-day morning at eight o'clock, went to the select meeting, 
 wherein our hearts were bowed in humble thankfulness before the 
 Lord, for his abundant mercies bestowed upon us. At three in 
 the afternoon, Friends met. . . . this was a comfortable meeting, 
 several living testimonies being borne, to the humbling of our 
 hearts together into contrition and holy fear. 
 
 " Fourth-day morning, some memorials of deceased Friends 
 were read and approved, tending to incite to faithfulness. In the 
 afternoon was the parting meeting, a highly favoured season .... 
 we were favoured to part in that near fellowship, which is not to 
 be expressed. May we be thankful therefore to the Author of all 
 good. This is a solemn time in this city, wherein many houses, 
 great and fair, are left without inhabitants, many faces gather 
 paleness, and many hearts are filled with sadness. Many I believe, 
 as was formerly recommended, are standing as between the porch 
 and the altar, crying, ' Spare thy people, 0 Lord ! and give not 
 thy heritage to reproach. 1 I have entered this city and remained 
 in it without fear, except the fear of the Lord, which at times fills 
 the hearts of his humble dependent children. May I be truly 
 thankful for this and every other mercy." 
 
 Toward the latter end of the Tenth Month the disorder began 
 to abate, and in a few days the improvement was very striking, 
 the number of deaths being greatly diminished, the new cases very 
 few, and a great many recovering. This was not owing to any 
 assignable natural cause, or to any new discovery in the mode of 
 treating the disease, but evidently to the immediate interposition 
 of Him who, in the midst of judgment, remembers mercy. On 
 the 14th of Eleventh Month, the committee for the relief of the 
 sick and poor, published an address to their fellow-citizens, in- 
 forming them that the disease had nearly subsided, and that the 
 city was restored to as great a degree of health as was usual at that 
 season of the year ; and shortly after this it wholly disappeared. 
 
1793.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 121 
 
 Tenth Month 10th. — Felt a little revived this morning; and 
 after waiting until meeting time, for my beloved friend Charles 
 William's corpse to be brought past my habitation, and it not 
 coming in time, I was most easy to go and sit with the little 
 company at the Market Street house, which was small indeed ; 
 S. Clark, Richard Jones and myself, sat in the front of the meet- 
 ing on one side, Mary England and Mary Cresson on the other 
 side of the house, with some scattered ones over the meeting; 
 amongst them I hope some precious youth. I laboured in weak- 
 ness, and am frequently jealous of myself, as there has been hardly 
 a meeting but what I have publicly laboured in for the past month. 
 O ! may I be willing to be searched ; and if it is my lot to be 
 numbered to my grave, may my merciful Lord and Saviour be 
 graciously pleased to receive me. 
 
 " 1 \th. — Have been engaged in considering what are we, amongst 
 such an innumerable company of servants who are doing their 
 Master's will in heaven and on earth ; and why should such atoms 
 mourn when the Lord of the universe is pleased to remove some 
 from the temptations and trials of time, and gather them into rest, 
 — seeing it is an easy thing with Him to raise up and qualify 
 many, many more, and send them forth. 0 ! for strength to offer 
 up my all to my great and merciful Lord ; that if life is spared, 
 it may yet be devoted to serve Him. Dear Daniel Offley departed 
 this life about ten o'clock. 
 
 " 20th. — A comfortable day, laboured in my own meeting, 
 morning and afternoon, and was favoured with an open opportunity 
 in the evening. 
 
 " 23rd. — Called to see Rebecca Jones, who was seized with 
 great pain, and could hardly talk to me through extreme suffering, 
 though the day before she seemed bravely. 
 
 " 2-ith. — Dear Rebecca Jones appeared under much discourage- 
 ment respecting getting about again ; but was in a heavenly frame 
 of mind and glad to see me : telling me that I felt like bone of 
 her bone. On my telling her that I had not seen but that she 
 might be raised up to bear testimony to the Lord's goodness and 
 truth, she replied, ' I am a poor atom, unworthy to be employed 
 in the Lord's work. Dear Thomas, many have fled from the Truth, 
 but the Lord will meet with them. I have been an exercised 
 woman for thirty years past, and often grieved to see the pride 
 and forgetfulness of many in our Society ; the multiplying of 
 pleasure carriages, formal visiting,' &c. ; and at another time, 
 when with her, she said there is another dispensation in store for 
 
122 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1793. 
 
 this people — depend upon it, repeating it more than once, if the 
 people are not humbled by the present. 
 
 " 25th. — Went to Philadelphia Monthly Meeting, which was 
 a comfortable time ; and most of those who were appointed to 
 services being out of town and sick, the business was summed up 
 in one minute, except the answers to the three queries, and the 
 appointment of a number of Friends to join with the few left, in 
 the care of the poor and distressed. I called to see dear Rebecca 
 Jones, who lay with her eyes almost closed ; and.although I spoke 
 to her and took her by the hand, she answered not, which was 
 affecting. After meeting I went again, and on going near the foot 
 of the bed, she said, ' Dear Thomas, I saw thee, (alluding to the 
 morning visit,) but I could not speak ; I am in waiting, there is 
 nothing to do.' She lifted up her hands, and seemed to wish to 
 say more, and several times gave us a look of much sweetness and 
 love ; and at length looking up again, she said, ' Go and the Lord 
 go with thee.' Being with her again in the afternoon, she said, 
 ' Dear Thomas, if the Master renews thy commission, and should 
 send thee over the water, mind the time and do not deal it out to 
 individuals, but spread it before thy friends, and thou wilt find 
 sympathizers ; and when thou gets there, remember the poor ser- 
 vants in families, they are too often neglected — the Lord dealt 
 bountifully with me in that land, and I have had comfortable 
 seasons with such. 1 I asked her what she had in view in the 
 morning when she looked up at me, and said, go and the Lord go 
 with thee ? — she replied, ' I could not tell thee before J. J ., though 
 I love him, but I alluded to thy going over the great waters. The 
 Lord has in some instances entrusted me with his secrets, and I 
 have not betrayed them.' After some more conversation, she 
 appearing inclined to sleep, I left her with much sweetness, and 
 could say in my heart, that flesh and blood had not revealed these 
 things unto her, but our heavenly Father, for my confirmation 
 and encouragement. 
 
 " Twelfth Month 4th. — About the time the last note was made, 
 the sickness abated, and now has nearly or quite disappeared. 
 Most of our Society and other inhabitants of the city are returned. 
 Dear llebecca Jones was so well as to attend our meeting last 
 First-day morning, and bore testimony to the goodness and mercy 
 of God ; but a different dispensation has of late taken place with 
 me. In the time of sickness, when fear and dismay spread over 
 many, my mind was wonderfully supported and borne up above 
 the waves, and I had faith at seasons to believe, that if it had 
 
1794.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 123 
 
 been my lot to be numbered to tbe grave, mercy everlasting would 
 have been my portion ; and in this sense I was favoured to rest 
 my soul from one season to another ; — but leanness and poverty 
 have succeeded ; and the enemy is suffered to come near, insomuch 
 that I feel like one waiting for some humbling dispensation to 
 come, in order to refine me. 0 ! Heavenly Father, who hast seen 
 meet to honour thy unworthy servant in days past, led me forth, 
 gone before me, and hast brought me back again with sheaves of 
 soul-enriching peace — what shall I answer thee ? Thou hast pre- 
 served my life in a wonderful manner — thou hast entrusted me a 
 little longer with an helpmeet, and lengthened out the lives of my 
 children ; grant me clearness of sight and enable me to say, thy 
 will be done." 
 
 His mind had been exercised at times for some years, with an 
 apprehension that it was required of him to pay a religious visit 
 to Friends and others in Great Britain and Ireland ; and patiently 
 abiding under the preparatory dispensations for this weighty and 
 important service, he was favoured to see with clearness, the 
 proper season for opening it to his brethren, for their solid con- 
 sideration and judgment. It was during this period of preparation, 
 and before he had disclosed his prospect to any one, that his 
 beloved and honoured friend Rebecca Jones, had a sense divinely 
 communicated to her of his being called to this engagement, and 
 as has been already related, imparted her feelings to him, which 
 appear to have had a confirming and strengthening effect upon 
 his mind. 
 
 In the Tenth Month, 1793, he spread before his friends of the 
 Northern district Monthly Meeting, this prospect of extensive and 
 arduous labour in a foreign land ; which after solid deliberation 
 was united with, and the requisite certificate granted. 
 
 Having obtained certificates of the unity and sympathy of the 
 quarterly and general spring meeting of ministers and elders in 
 this concern, he left Philadelphia on the 11th of the Fifth Month, 
 1794, and next day embarked at New York, on board the ship 
 Ohio, bound for Liverpool. He was accompanied on board by 
 several of his friends, " from whom," he remarks, " I parted with 
 an overflowing heart, willingly submitting myself to the care and 
 protection of the Lord my God." On the 13th, they weighed 
 anchor and got under way ; on this day he writes, — " Met a kind 
 reception from Judge Jay,* his secretary and others on board. 
 
 * Minister Plenipotentiary from the United States to England, who went passenger 
 in the same ship. 
 
124 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1794. 
 
 My cup has been full this morning, in remembering those I have 
 left behind ; and also, what a pilgrim's life I have entered upon. 
 But who can describe the feelings on such a separation, to one 
 who is in such a lonely state as I feel mine to be ? O ! what 
 would be the consequence, was my Lord and Saviour to withdraw 
 himself at such a time, and leave me to combat with the weak- 
 ness of the flesh." 
 
 The following extracts are taken from a letter written to him 
 by Rebecca Jones, dated 10th of Fifth Month, 1794, and endorsed, 
 " to be opened when at sea, and recurred to in Great Britain and 
 Ireland." 
 
 " After leaving thy house last evening, my mind was swallowed 
 up in that love and friendship which is better felt than expressed ; 
 and now, in the greatest sincerity, and under that influence, my 
 heart bids thee ' Go, and the Lord God go with thee. 1 
 
 " When thou arrivest on the British shores, remember me, 
 and pray for me when thou canst, for though I have been, through 
 the Lord's ever adorable mercy, favoured to see for and feel with 
 thee, yet now under the prospect of a family visit, I am ready to 
 sink, and very much doubt my ability to get through to the 
 honour of my great and good Master, being a much poorer crea- 
 ture every way than thou hast any idea of. 
 
 " May the Lord on high, who is mightier than the noise of 
 many waters, be thy bow and battle-axe, thy shield, and thy 
 exceeding great reward. When thou meetest with my friends, 
 say to them for me, that my love for them and for the ever- 
 blessed Truth, remains unimpaired ; but that being lately raised 
 from the brink of the grave, they must not expect many more 
 written testimonials of my love to them ; because, being near the 
 end of the painful journey of life, I have less time and ability for 
 writing, and am strictly enjoined to salute but few by the way. 
 
 " My sincere and ardent desire is, that in those towns and 
 places where Friends are numerous, thou mayst remember that 
 valuable class in society, who are hired in families, called in that 
 country, servants ; among whom there is a number of valuable, 
 tender-spirited Friends, with whom I had some precious meet- 
 ings ; the remembrance whereof is pleasant at this moment. 
 
 " And now under a renewed hope and persuasion, that all things 
 necessary will be furnished thee, by Him who hath so evidently 
 put thee forth, my whole heart salutes thee, and bids thee endear - 
 edly farewell in the Lord, and am thy sister, in unfeigned regard 
 and true Christian fellowship. 
 
1794.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 125 
 
 « P. S. — Don't be afraid to trust thy good Master, if he enjoins 
 upon thee to hold meetings in the cabin, he will make way for 
 thee in this and every other work he may assign thee. Do not be 
 dismayed at the sight of the great, as thou journeyest amongst 
 them ; but quit thyself like a man, enduring hardness as a good 
 soldier, and the very God of peace and consolation be with 
 thee. Amen.'" 
 
 "15^. — ' What is man that thou art mindful of him, or the 
 son of man that thou visitest him ? ' 
 
 " \ 6th. — My feelings have been much awakened at seasons since 
 I got on board this ship, and if I had not a small portion of faith 
 left to believe that the Lord is on my side, surely fear and dismay 
 would be my portion. How comfortable and cheering would the 
 company of some one of my dear friends be as a companion. 
 How singular a movement from home it seems, to be put on board 
 ship alone ; altogether among strangers, a stranger in the midst 
 of the sea. Well, the Lord was with Jonah when in a worse 
 condition than mine ; may it be his blessed will to strengthen my 
 faith, patience and confidence in him, through this voyage, and 
 be my leader and feeder on the land. The respectful, kind treat- 
 ment of Judge Jay and my fellow-passengers, is comfortable 
 indeed. Tears have been my meat, and probably might have 
 been more so had I given full vent to them. What an atom am 
 I to attempt such a work — this is the greatest task ever assigned 
 me : 0 ! that the Lord my God may be pleased to be a husband 
 to my dear wife, and more than a son to my aged mother, and 
 bless my children. 
 
 " 20th. — A moderate breeze yesterday from N.N. E., so that 
 we nearly laid our course, and I endeavoured with all my might 
 to keep the faith and patience. Retired to my berth with heavi- 
 ness, and had a tossing night, not of body, but of mind. 0 ! 
 what will be the issue of this deep and very humiliating scene ! 
 My companions can be cheerful, but 0 ! the fresh pangs of death 
 and sorrow which have taken hold on me this morning ! Have I 
 taken heed to a false light in my setting off from home ? Have I 
 not kept in the patience ? Judge me, O Lord ! rip open my 
 heart, show me my condition as it really is in thy sight. Suffer 
 thy servant to spread forth his hands and pour out his heart 
 towards thy holy habitation — hear thou in heaven, thy dwelling 
 place, and forgive if I have sinned, for thou only knowest the 
 hearts of the children of men. Afternoon. — Faith, we are told, 
 is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not 
 seen ; my sight seems at times gone. 
 
126 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1794. 
 
 " 2\st, Fourth-day. — Had rather a struggling night in my 
 lonely creaking bed-chamber. A little more quieted in mind on 
 waking this morning, which I have esteemed a favour, and a 
 little hope and confidence have revived whilst sitting on deck 
 after breakfast. 0 ! that I may be prepared through this proving 
 scene, as a vessel rinsed and cleansed out, and fit for the heavenly 
 Master's use. Surely pride is hid and I see what a poor, very 
 poor creature I am. A fair wind last night, and to-day S.W. ; 
 spoke a vessel from Ireland early this morning, bound for Phila- 
 delphia, six weeks out. A pleasant, warm day. The wind 
 continues fair this afternoon ; opened dear Rebecca Jones 1 letter, 
 received in Twelfth Month, J. C.'s in the same month, and J. 
 Hunt's written after he got home from the Spring Meeting, 
 wherein he sends me the twentieth Psalm to peruse. Dear R. 
 Jones mentions the same in her's, and I am thankful that I can 
 take a little encouragement therefrom : this has been a day of the 
 most light, ease and quiet of mind, since I came on board. O 
 Lord ! what a comfort it is to be in the least favoured, livingly 
 to believe that every thing is the work of thy Almighty hand, 
 and that thou art nearer to thy servants than they are to them- 
 selves. Gracious Fountain of sustaining help, I bless thy name 
 for this little portion of comfort vouchsafed to me, a poor and 
 desolate creature, in the midst of the sea — be pleased to remember 
 my dear wife, aged mother, and children ; my heart yearns 
 toward them with tenderness and love." 
 
 The letter of Rebecca Jones, above alluded to, appears to be 
 the following, viz : 
 
 " Dear Thomas, 
 
 " I have been travelling with thee in spirit for several days, 
 even before I received thy plaintive note ; and as I do believe the 
 everlasting Arm of ancient, all-sufficient help is underneath, in 
 thy present conflict, I feel a liberty in the truth to tell thee so, 
 even in the language of dear John Woolman to Sarah Morris, at 
 a time when she was under a trying dispensation, in the prospect 
 of her being called to labour in a foreign laud, — to wit ; ' He will 
 bring thee through more purified.' So, my dear friend, lift up thy 
 head in hope, as thou hast often encouraged me and others to do. 
 And just now, the substance of the twentieth Psalm occurs very 
 livingly to my mind ; turn to it and read it, and apply it as a 
 portion which has opened for me to send thee in the love and life 
 of Truth, in which I salute thee, and remain thy poor and weak, 
 yet affectionate sister, " R. Jones." 
 
1794.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SC A.TTERGOOD. 
 
 127 
 
 " 22nd. — Light wind and fair, last night, and continues so this 
 morning. Slept pretty well, and awoke with some encouraging 
 hope ; since which I have sat down in the cabin and penned a few 
 lines to dear Rebecca Jones ; may sustaining help be near her, 
 and all my dear friends left behind. 0 Lord ! grant a portion of 
 bread this day to sustain my tossed mind. Afternoon. — Cast 
 down, but hope not forsaken ; home and near connexions fre- 
 quently in view. I find retirement, in deep thoughtfulness, is 
 profitable. O ! that the children of men were more acquainted 
 with such a state. Acquaint thyself, 0 my soul ! with God, and 
 be at peace. 
 
 " '23rd, Sixth-day. — Strong wind at south, and continues so 
 this morning : we have gone from eight to nine and a half knots — 
 passed the banks — a wakeful, tossing night. Lord, thou hast been 
 the strength of the poor and needy in all generations ; before the 
 mountains were brought forth, or hills were made, thou art God ! 
 Thou hast been strength to the poor and needy in their distress, a 
 refuge from the storm, a covert from the heat, when the blast of 
 the terrible ones has beat as a storm against the wall : condescend 
 to bear up my drooping mind, and all such as are engaged to seek 
 thy face and do thy will. 0 Lord ! cause thy face to shine on 
 my dear aged brother left behind ; guide him by the right arm of 
 thy strength through this vale of trials and tears, and bring him 
 to inherit thy glory. Let thy will prove our sanctification and 
 redemption. O ! for a portion of sustaining bread this day. 
 
 " 24th. — An unusually comfortable night's rest in my confined 
 berth. O ! what a poor creature I look like, to go to that great 
 city of London, and without any companion. Did ever any poor 
 servant set out like me, and feel as stripped and as poor as I do ? 
 Lord, help me. After dinner, I went to my state-room and lay 
 down, where my mind was covered with sweetness and love, on 
 looking toward my dear connexions and friends, both in the city 
 and out of it, whom I have visited in days past, in the love of the 
 gospel ; wherein the Lord helped me, showing me the time to go 
 forth, and also causing me to return with sweet, enriching peace. 
 0 ! that this may be granted through the present errand. I have 
 had such a hope, I trust a living hope, renewed this afternoon — 
 all things work together for good to them that love God ; so be it. 
 Rest in quiet confidence, 0 my soul ! 
 
 " 25th, First-day. — After breakfast, sat down with Judge Jay 
 and son, in the cabin ; and my mind was drawn into solid retire- 
 ment, wherein my spirit saluted my family and friends. I remem- 
 
128 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1794. 
 
 bered tlie North meeting, and that my dear friends were collecting 
 for the Yearly Meeting at New York ; and although I dropped 
 some tears on the floor, I was a little comforted in remembering 
 this precious passage : ' Thus saith the high and lofty One that 
 inhabiteth eternity, whose name is holy, — I dwell in the high and 
 holy place ; with him also that is poor, and of a contrite spirit ; to 
 revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the 
 contrite ones.' Dare I, a poor worm, draw any encouragement 
 from this ? 0 yes ! although I confess my shortness and back- 
 slidings many a time, in a day of ease. Guide me, 0 Lord ! by 
 thy wisdom ; grant that I may yet be favoured to be directed 
 by thy Spirit. Thou, whose eye goeth to and fro throughout the 
 whole earth and sea, in order to show thyself strong on behalf of 
 those who put their trust in thee, grant me an upright heart to 
 the end of this arduous journey. 
 
 " Afternoon. — A tossing time : some of the passengers are gone 
 to bed, and such as could sit up went on deck, and it was pleasant 
 to behold the sun once more, which has not shone for some days 
 past. Saw a shoal of porpoises playing alongside and around the 
 ship, and some brown birds flying above the waves. Methought 
 what a life this is, to have no more comfortable resting place than 
 a wave, a boisterous wave of the sea ; and yet how comfortable it 
 is made to these little inhabitants by an all-wise Providence. 
 Rest then, O my soul ! in patience, in thy present allotment, be- 
 lieving thou art where thy all-wise Creator would that thou should 
 be ; who can in his time, which is the best, make things appear 
 more pleasant. 
 
 " 26tk. — Never more, I think, even in the time of distress 
 lately passed through in Philadelphia, [from the yellow fever,] has 
 my spirit been broken than at seasons in my berth, in looking over 
 the graves of my dear brethren who are removed from works to 
 rewards ; and here am I, a poor worm, ransomed from death. 
 
 0 ! the adorable mercy and goodness shown to me and my family 
 at that time. May I, and all those that I have left behind, live 
 in a sense of it, that if we are favoured to meet again in this world, 
 it may be in a sense of the love and goodness of God. How could 
 
 1 bear up under the dispensations allotted me, were I not favoured 
 livingly to remember that Christ Jesus our Lord was a man of 
 sorrows, and acquainted with grief. How little many of the 
 children of men appear acquainted with the baptism that he was 
 baptized with, and with the cup of which he drank. 0 ! that I 
 may be favoured with a willingness to drink of it to the end of 
 
1794.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 129 
 
 my time here, and if a day of enlargement is granted, after this 
 dispensation, that I may be humble. 
 
 " 27th. — But little sleep last night. O ! for patience and con- 
 tentment in the will of God. Great are the privileges many enjoy 
 on land, and it is to be feared they are not enough prized. I often 
 have mournfully to acknowledge, Lord, I am poor and sorrowful ; 
 shall I again be found worthy of the annexed part 1 Let thy sal- 
 vation set me up on high ; set me above my doubts and fears. I 
 have undertaken a great work, for which I feel my unworthiness, 
 and my weakness. 
 
 " Afternoon. — The wind high and the sea rough, so that it was 
 with difficulty we ate our dinners. The captain told us a little 
 afterwards, we were going eleven knots an hour. It is a favour 
 that we are carried along so safely and rapidly through the ocean. 
 ' The way of a ship in the sea' is indeed a wonder, and I am a 
 wonder to myself. Ah me, how little can I see before me : it 
 seems as though my condition resembles the sea now in view from 
 the cabin windows ; wave follows wave, and billow succeeds billow. 
 Remember, O my tossed soul ! that Jesus, thy Lord and Saviour, 
 walked on the sea ; and he has been with thee and supported 
 hitherto, — has rebuked the winds and the waves, and caused a 
 calm. May my weary, tossed mind find rest in Him. 
 
 " 29th. — A pleasant morning, with a fine breeze, and I have 
 been favoured to look forward in hope. It is a great trial to part 
 with wife and children, father and mother, brothers and sisters, 
 houses and land ; although, of the latter, possessing not so much 
 as many enjoy ; but I remembered, on laying down my wearied 
 head to rest last night, and now again it revives with some com- 
 fort, that our merciful Lord said to Peter, ' Such should have an 
 hundred-fold in this life, and in the world to come life everlasting 
 that is, if they were parted with for his sake and the gospel's. 
 0 ! that I may, to the end of my days, be found simple-hearted 
 enough to come under this description ; then all will be well. ' The 
 angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and 
 saveth them. 1 What a favour to have faith in thv most excellent 
 name, O Lord my God ! 
 
 " How sweet is the remembrance of the labourers in the harvest 
 field now in Great Britain from my native land, and how I have 
 longed of latter time to see them and enjoy their company, in 
 the love and life of truth. Lord, raise up andsend forth more 
 labourers from the land of my nativity, if it be thy blessed will ; 
 water thy tender plants, and cause them to grow, and make them 
 
 K 
 
130 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTKRGOOD. 
 
 [1794. 
 
 fruit- bearing branches in the living vine. Let the sound of thy 
 everlasting gospel go forth unto all nations. It is thou who ap- 
 points unto every servant his portion. Thou art served in suffering, 
 as well as in rejoicing. Whom have I to look to, or to trust in, 
 but thee, to keep and preserve me, and open a way to the end of 
 this present engagement? I hope I trust in thee. 
 
 " 30th, Sixth-day. — The wind shifted toward morning to S.E., 
 and is now heavy, with a rough sea and rain ; but 0 ! how sweet 
 to be favoured to look upon Zion, the city of the saints' solemnity; 
 how precious to believe in God, the Father Almighty, and in 
 Jesus Christ, his Son ; and at seasons to be favoured with the 
 communion of saints. Surely there is such a thing, for how sweet 
 is the remembrance of some who are in their fixed, happy places 
 of abode, as well as those who are still on earth. 0 ! that the 
 Lord my God may be pleased to make me an instrument of good, 
 if it be only to an individual in Great Britain : will it not be 
 enough to compensate for all I have undergone, or yet may 
 have to endure, to be thus honoured as a servant of God. 0 Lord 
 my God ! who hast been my helper and support through many 
 baptisms, be graciously pleased to bless and favour my dear aged 
 parent with a more abundant knowledge of the way of peace, that 
 her last days may be her best days, and the day of her death 
 better than the day of her birth. 
 
 "31s£. — A squally night ; a great stir on deck about twelve 
 o'clock, taking in sail. Our foretopsail yard was carried away, and 
 the sail torn to pieces. It was a favour that I could lay quietly 
 in the midst of apparent danger, the waves rolling and dashing 
 violently against the side of the ship, and it is likely my little 
 berth was below them. But what is all this when a quiet mind 
 is mercifully granted, when balmy sleep puts an end for the pre- 
 sent to trouble? There is a baptism into which the Lord is 
 pleased, in wisdom, to introduce his servants ; a measure, doubt- 
 less, of the same cup that was allotted to Christ Jesus, our Lord 
 and Lawgiver, for our sakes. ' Know ye not,' says the apostle, 'that 
 as many as were baptized into Christ, were baptized into his death V 
 What are all outward washings compared to a living experience 
 of this ? 0 ! the unutterable misery of that soul from whom the 
 Lord hides his face, and, because of disobedience and rebellion, 
 will be merciful to it no more ; and how little is this thought of 
 by vain and heedless mortals. 
 
 " Sixth Month 1st, First-day. — Ship goes easy to-day, not much 
 swell, and some sunshine. I have been sitting, since dinner, pen- 
 
1794.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 131 
 
 sively musing and thinking of my family and North meeting. My 
 heart was broken into tenderness. How near my dear friends left 
 behind feel at seasons, and how one and another comes into view. 
 
 0 ! how desolate and proved has been the state of my mind since 
 
 1 so preciously parted from my dear wife and family this day three 
 weeks ago, when 1 could say, in humble acknowledgment to the 
 God of my life, that he was my light and my song — my Shepherd, 
 and I should not want. Blessed be his great and holy name, in 
 that he has vouchsafed a little to renew my faith, opening to me 
 Jacob's vision. Poor worm Jacob, when travelling from his 
 father's comfortable house, in the wilderness of this uncertain, tran- 
 sitory world, was favoured to behold God's preserving power and 
 providence, and his spirit was cheered ; also, when the prophet's 
 servant's eyes were opened to see the mount full of chariots and 
 horses, he said, it is enough. 11 Lord, I believe ; help thou my 
 unbelief.' 
 
 " 2nd. — A still night, and a fine calm day. Began a letter to my 
 dear wife, and feel comfortably resigned to my situation : thanks 
 be rendered where due. 
 
 " 3rd. — Light wind to-day and ahead : have sailed only ten 
 miles on our way for the last twenty-four hours. Some impatience 
 appears among the company, but I am thankful for a quiet and 
 resigned mind. 
 
 " 6th. — The wind breezed up fair about twelve o'clock last night, 
 and this morning we are sailing about seven knots an hour. 1 am 
 thankful that I was resigned when we were becalmed, and feel 
 tranquil now that we are moving more swiftly towards our desired 
 port. The works of the Lord in his providence over us, are just 
 and equal. 
 
 « 7th. — At one o'clock one of the sailors aloft cried out 'land,' 
 which proved to be the Scilly Islands, to the windward of us. The 
 captain has outrun his reckoning. Several of our company are 
 busy packing up to go on shore at Falmouth* to-morrow, and from 
 thence by land to London. I feel pretty quiet, though poor, and 
 do not see my way on shore yet. 
 
 " 8th, First-day. — Awoke this morning poorly and have felt so 
 most of the day. We were in company with a fleet last night and 
 this morning, and the wind first dying away and then coming 
 ahead, were until near sunset before we came into Falmouth har- 
 
 * The reader will perceive, at p. 123, that T. Scattergood is stated to have sailed 
 in a vessel bound for Liverpool. The error escaped attention, until the former sheet had 
 gone through the press. 
 
 K 2 
 
132 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTER GOOD. 
 
 [1794. 
 
 bour, where J. Jay, his son and afewother passengers went on shore, 
 in order to take passage by land. The captain and all the rest of 
 the passengers being gone, I sat down in the cabin and poured 
 forth a few tears, — but it has been a time of solemnity to me since 
 the ship cast her anchor, wherein I trust I have experienced that 
 which is an anchor to the soul, sure and stedfast. I remembered 
 this precious promise, ' I will not leave you comfortless, but will 
 come again unto you ;' so I can sit down alone sweetly composed, 
 and make this note. Soon after making the foregoing note, a 
 friendly man came on board in G. Fox's boat with a letter from 
 him, kindly inviting me on shore, which was pleasant, as also the 
 company of the messenger. I wrote a respectful answer acknow- 
 ledging his kindness. He left me, and I walked the quarter-deck 
 until tbe captain and steerage passengers came on board, and he 
 soon ordered the anchor up, and we put out with a fair wind. 
 
 " 9th. — Refreshed this morning, and felt comforted both in- 
 wardly and outwardly, and my soul has been revived in a fresh 
 and living sense of the loving kindness of my Lord and Master, 
 which makes my lonely confinement truly pleasant. 
 
 " \3th. — Weighed anchor about eight o'clock, and about two 
 o'clock came to again at Gravesend, the wind springing up fair just 
 as we got under way. This has been a day of exercise in approach- 
 ing near to the great city — 0! for sustaining help. There are many 
 beautiful spots along the river which please the eye. In the even- 
 ing, the pilots who had gone on shore came back, and we weighed 
 anchor about eight o'clock. About twelve o'clock I awoke with 
 the bustle and noise on deck, and found they were coming to anchor, 
 between Greenwich and Blackwall, where we lay until nine o'clock 
 in the morning. 
 
 " 14th. — I had an opportunity of seeing the city almost up to 
 London Bridge ; and although my situation on board was not the 
 most pleasant, neither some things which my eyes beheld on shore, 
 nevertheless I believe it was right that I staid in the ship. Be- 
 tween two and three o'clock, Joseph Smith, a kind Friend came 
 and met the ship one and a half mile from her intended station, 
 and took me home with him, where I found dear Samuel Emlen 
 and George Dillwyn waiting for me, and met an open kind recep- 
 tion from Joseph's wife, who is a daughter of Rachel Wilson." 
 
 Extracts from a letter to Rebecca Jones, begun at sea, near the 
 banks of Newfoundland, Fifth Month 22nd, 1794. 
 
 " Thou hast been so much the companion of my exercised mind 
 
1794.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 133 
 
 since I came on board this ship, and peculiarly so this morning, 
 that I thought I must salute thee in that love which baptized us 
 together, when thou wast favoured through holy help to unfold my 
 state to me, and in which thou hast since been made as bone of my 
 bone and flesh of my flesh. How shall I open to thee, my dear 
 friend, the feelings of my mind since we parted, and particularly 
 since I came on board this floating bark. Stripped of all enjoy- 
 ment of the company of my beloved connexions and friends, and 
 delivered into the hands of strangers, not knowing the face of an 
 individual on board, excepting my kind friend John Jay, and him 
 I never saw but once before ; I have not language fully to express 
 the feelings which were awakened in my depressed mind, after we 
 put to sea, when every prop seemed to be knocked away, and for 
 some days and nights I was left to struggle with a sense of extreme 
 weakness and dismay ; yea, I thought not far from the pit of 
 despair. For although some of you who love me, and myself also, 
 thought the way clearly and plainly opened before me, and I was 
 favoured to part so sweetly from my dear Sarah, my mother and 
 the rest of my family and friends, and felt cheerful and easy as I 
 passed along the road, in company with my dear friends who gave 
 up to see me on board ; and even until I got into the ship, I felt 
 like one pressing toward his home ; after all this, O ! the unutter- 
 able pangs which came upon me, and continued for several days. 
 My condition was veiled, and in the depth of my sorrow I was 
 ready to cry out, ' Why have I done thus V In this mournful 
 state of mind, I opened thy affectionate letter and read and wept, 
 but seemed as though I could hardly believe so as to derive any en- 
 couragement from it. Since then I have read it again, and also that 
 sent rne in the Twelfth Month, and one from dear J. Hunt, in which 
 he refers me to the twentieth Psalm ; all which 1 have read with a 
 degree of encouraging hope, the clouds of dismay having in some 
 degree broken away, and love to my dear friends sprung up in my 
 tribulated soul. 0! how near and dear some of you feel to me, now 
 whilst I am writing — I pray for thee, that the Lord may strengthen 
 thy hands to war, and thy fingers to fight ; support thee through- 
 out thy present undertaking, [a family visit] and be thy exceed- 
 ing great reward, when it is accomplished. Still remember me, 
 thy poor brother, and desire for me that I may experience all the 
 old dregs to be rinsed away, and through adorable mercy be made 
 a clean and upright hearted instrument, if favoured to labour in a 
 foreign land — this is the desire of my soul. Feed the flock over 
 which the Holy Spirit has made thee an overseer ; and may all 
 
134 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEKGOOD. 
 
 [1 7.94. 
 
 the faithful labourers be strengthened by the mighty God of Jacob, 
 and their feet be so established as not to be moved. For those 
 dear and precious children in the city, who have been rightly 
 brought forth in the work of the ministry of peace and reconcilia- 
 tion, my desire is that their feet may more and more be shod with 
 the preparation of the gospel of peace. Never more feelingly, than 
 since being under a measure of the dispensation of sorrow, in this 
 watery journey, has my mind been dipped into sympathy with the 
 afflicted. 0 ! may the Lord God of everlasting compassion, look 
 down upon and help those everywhere, who are helpless, and grant 
 them that hope which will be an anchor to the soul. 
 
 " Dear Rebecca, thou hast been and T trust remains to be a sister 
 in sympathy with me, and thou wilt not reject the simplicity of 
 this plaintive note — it will give thee to see that thou art not alone 
 in travail and exercise, and verily I dare not believe otherwise, than 
 that it is more or less the experience of all the Lord's truly bap- 
 tized ministers." 
 
 "Sixth Month 8th. — Just dropped anchor in Falmouth har- 
 bour — all the passengers are gone ashore, as well as the captain 
 with the letter bags. After I parted from my kind friend John 
 Jay and his son, who are going to take coach to London, I came 
 down into the cabin and endeavoured to turn my mind to the 
 Fountain of all-sustaining help ; and living hope sprang up, which 
 is as an anchor indeed, sure and stedfast in the time of trouble, 
 and which through this trying voyage, has brought up my poor 
 little bark to the winds and waves, and so far, through mercy, I 
 have lived through it. Whilst sitting here alone, I have had 
 sweetly and encouragingly to remember the gracious promise, 1 I 
 will not leave you comfortless,' &c. 
 
 " I have received a kind letter from George Fox inviting me to 
 come on shore to his house, which was cheering to my lonely mind, 
 as was also the company of the friendly messenger, who brought 
 it, especially when he told me there were many valuable Friends 
 in the town, and some of them just returned from the Yearly Meet- 
 ing. But the captain having told me he should return soon, in order 
 to set sail, the wind being fair, I wrote a respectful reply, desiring 
 my love to Friends. And now being again left alone, I have thank- 
 fully to say in the secret of my soul, ' Good and gracious art thou, 
 0 ! thou who art the Helper of all them that look unto and trust in 
 thee."' A living hope revives, that thy words my dear friend, will 
 in due time be m^de good, that I shall find sympathizers in this 
 land — so be it. 11 
 
1794.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 135 
 
 " 20th. — On Seventh-day last about two o'clock, Joseph Smith 
 came on board the ship, about a mile and a half from London 
 Bridge and brought me to his house, and both he and his affec- 
 tionate wife, treat me as a brother. Dear Sarah Harrison and 
 Elizabeth Drinker, are in the city, the latter very poorly and. 
 under the doctor's hands.* I have been at several meetings, 
 but have not had much to say, and feel willing, if it is the 
 Master's will, to pass along so for a season, and am earnestly 
 desirous that my spiritual senses may be so exercised, as that I 
 may be favoured in the right time, with a right knowledge of the 
 beginning corner. Pray for me that I may be preserved among 
 this people, who abound with temporal good things ; that I may be 
 kept in the littleness, and faithful to the unfoldings of Divine 
 counsel, as it may be graciously opened." 
 
 * She died in London soon after. 
 
136 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1794. 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 
 1794. 1795 EXTRACTS FROM HIS JOURNAL WHILST IN LONDON AND 
 
 ITS NEIGHBOURHOOD — INTERESTING MEETING WITH SAMUEL SPAVOLD 
 
 OF HITCHIN VISITS THE FAMILIES OF FRIENDS THERE AND AT 
 
 HERTFORD EXTRACTS FROM SOME OF HIS LETTERS WRITTEN DURING 
 
 THIS PERIOD PROCEEDS TO VISIT THE FAMILIES OF GRACECHURCH 
 
 STREET MONTHLY MEETING ATTENDS THE FUNERAL OF SAMUEL 
 
 SPAVOLD GOES TO STAINES AND SOME PARTS OF BUCKINGHAMSHIRE 
 
 VISITS THE FAMILIES OF DEVONSHIRE HOUSE MONTHLY MEETING 
 
 LETTER TO A FRIEND DESCRIPTIVE OF HIS LABOURS ABOUT THIS 
 
 TIME ATTENDS THE QUARTERLY MEETING FOR LONDON AND MID- 
 DLESEX. 
 
 '•'■Sixth Month 15^, First-day. — Went to Gracechurch Street 
 Meeting, accompanied by George Dillwyn, and was seated between 
 him and dear Samuel Emlen — a sweet comfortable season, although 
 I had but little to communicate. Samuel Emlen preached, men- 
 tioning the coming of Titus to Paul, and how they were mutually 
 comforted together. In the afternoon went to Devonshire House 
 meeting ; silent on my part, but a comfortable season to me — 
 came home in the evening accompanied by dear George Dillwyn, 
 and found divers young people, with whom we had a favoured 
 opportunity ; dear George stayed with me until bed time, and a 
 pleasant evening it has been. 
 
 " 1 6th. — Towards evening, came Sarah Harrison, and her com- 
 panion Sarah Birkbeck, who stayed and lodged. They came up- 
 wards of twenty miles to see me, and it was truly a pleasaut 
 meeting. 
 
 " 22nd. — Joseph Smith took me to Tottenham meeting, which 
 was silent. In the afternoon, attended the meeting held in the 
 Clerkenwell School-house, and had a comfortable time with the 
 scholars." 
 
 After attending London and Middlesex Quarterly Meeting, 
 Ratcliff Meeting, and one with the scholars at Clerkenwell, he 
 makes the following memorandum : — 
 
 " 29th. — Was at Gracechurch Street meeting, both in the 
 morning and afternoon, and laboured in testimony in both ; and 
 
1 794-.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 137 
 
 at six o'clock in the evening went to an appointed meeting for 
 servants, apprentices, &c, which was held in the women's new 
 house ; it was very large, and ended solidly and well. 
 
 " 30th. — No way opens out of this city, and great is the open- 
 ness toward me amongst Friends ; may my soul be preserved in 
 humility and fear. 
 
 "Seventh Month 1st. — Went to Horselydown meeting, and 
 although we were few in number, it proved a precious season, where 
 both dear Martha Routh and I were much enlarged in testimony, 
 and in the close my heart was drawn forth in prayer for myself, 
 and those other exercised servants, who have been sent across the 
 sea in the service of Truth. 0 Lord ! support and bear me up 
 under all the dispensations which thou, in thy unsearchable wis- 
 dom, may see meet to permit to be my lot ; and sweeten all the 
 cups thou art pleased to dispense to my dear wife — what can I do 
 less, thou most merciful Lord and Master, than submissively say 
 ' Thy will be done.' 
 
 "2nd, Fourth-day. — Had a restless night, and a weeping 
 morning. I dare not say, if thou dealest thus with me, slay me, 
 I pray thee ; but preserve me I pray thee, 0 Lord ! for thy will 
 has proved my sanctification hitherto. Went to Gracechurch 
 Street meeting, and though not large, it was an open time, wherein 
 I had fervently to labour, and dear S. E. told me after it, that 
 one of the elders came to him with tears and mentioned, that even 
 the same words had been made use of by me as had frequently 
 been by him : and that it was marvellous. After dinner, had a 
 favoured opportunity in the family. I went on board William 
 Rotch's ship with E. Drinker, accompanied by William and 
 Sarah Rudd, and Rachel Smith. E. Drinker expressed the satis- 
 faction she felt on board, and that it seemed like a pleasant home 
 for those that were permitted to go; but as regarded herself, she 
 did not know but that 'Trophimus must be yet left at Miletum 
 sick ; 1 alluding to S. Emlen's testimony at the select meeting on 
 Second-day ; when he mentioned this passage in sympathy with 
 her. 
 
 " 8th. — Went to the Monthly Meeting at Devonshire House, 
 and during the part for worship, I think we had a good time ; I 
 have not felt it more so, to myself, since being in this city. 
 
 "9th. — Attended Gracechurch Street Monthly Meeting, and 
 silently weighed a prospect which had rested on my mind, to visit 
 the families in this meeting ; and at the close mentioned it, in 
 much weakness, before men and women separated. It was united 
 
138 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1794. 
 
 with, and a large committee appointed to make the necessary 
 arrangements. 
 
 "10^A. — To the adjournment this afternoon, where I mentioned 
 Richard Chester as a companion in the work above alluded to, 
 with which the meeting united. 
 
 "lltf/i. Sixth-day. — Dined at home, (Joseph Smith's,) and had 
 the company of Thomas Clarkson, the great advocate for the 
 liberty of the blacks. 
 
 "12^A, Seventh-day. — Lord enable me to look with greater 
 steadiness to thee, and to preserve the balance of my mind; and O! 
 that I may seek counsel and strength from thee, so as to be rightly 
 directed in this weighty work of going from house to house. Un- 
 worthy as I am, I desire to prostrate myself before thee, and 
 beseech thee graciously to afford me the covering of thy Spirit, 
 and a more even frame of mind. 
 
 "19 if A, Seventh-day. — A day of exercise; no clear prospect 
 opening to move in the family visit, and I am jealous of myself. 
 0! for the water of purification, and that my soul may be abased, 
 and by abiding there find preservation ! Great is the subtlety of 
 the enemy. 
 
 " 20th, First-day. — May T know a setting out anew this morn- 
 ing, by the power of him who overturns, washes and makes up 
 anew. I am a poor creature, and I am glad to be made sensible of 
 it. Went to Devonshire House, and sat silent; dined with Martha 
 Routh and company, at Job Allen's ; and when we sat down to 
 eat, it was a solemn time, in which my speech was directed to the 
 parents, their three sons present, and the maid. In the afternoon 
 went to Gracechurch Street meeting, which was dull in the fore 
 part, but after being favoured with a little strength to open a door, 
 Samuel Enden had much to say to a number of strangers present, 
 and hope the meeting ended pretty well. 
 
 " 21st, Second-day. — Breakfasted with Martha Routh, her hus- 
 band, and several Friends, at Simon Bailey's, and after a solid 
 sitting, accompanied her on board the ship Barclay; where I found 
 dear John Wigham.* We had to part from them pretty soon, 
 and the ship got under weigh. After we landed, I stopped at the 
 widow Smith's near the Tower, with a number of Friends ; where 
 we sat down together, and it proved a time of Divine favour to be 
 remembered. 
 
 "22«.6?. — Breakfasted at Joseph Gurney Bevan's with Samuel 
 
 * These two Friends were about embarking on a religious visit to Friends in America. 
 
1794.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 139 
 
 Emlen ; and accompanied him to the water side, where I took 
 leave of him in an affecting manner: he was going, with a number 
 of Friends, in a Gravesend boat, to embark for America in the 
 ship Barclay. After this, went with Elizabeth Minching, Sarah 
 Rudd and Elizabeth Messer to Ratcliff meeting, to the burial of 
 Robert Foster. It was a large mixed meeting, a number of poor 
 inhabitants coming in ; and I was glad I was there. On visiting 
 William Rotch, the only passenger now left behind, and feeling 
 his lonely, tried situation, I expressed a willingness to accompany 
 him to the ship lying at Gravesend, which he accepted. 
 
 "23ro?. — Set off in a post-chaise with William Rotch ; when we 
 got to Gravesend found our friends on shore at a public house, 
 near the water's edge, all ready to put off, so we took boats and 
 went on board ; stayed about a quarter of an hour with them, and 
 then took a solemn leave once more, soon after which the ship got 
 under weigh, with a fair wind, and when we landed was nearly out 
 of sight. We sat down in the large room in the tavern, and I 
 hope we were favoured to send our wishes and prayers for preser- 
 vation after the little band on the water. Returned with William 
 Dillwyn, and as we rode along, we saw a very great smoke arise 
 toward London, which we found to be a fire. It broke out in a 
 boat-builder's shop, adjoining the East India Company's large 
 warehouse and salt-petre works; which were soon on fire and 
 burned violently. It continued burning many hours, and it was 
 supposed that between four and five hundred houses were destroyed. 
 It came very nearly up to Ratcliff meeting-house, and extended 
 over several acres of ground. 
 
 " 2M. — This was the day of Ratcliff Monthly Meeting, which 
 I knew not, but found my mind turned that way rather than to 
 Westminster week-day meeting. Joseph Smith went with me, and 
 when we got there we found the yard pretty much filled up with 
 casks, and no appearance of a meeting. It being early, we took 
 a walk amongst the ruins and rubbish caused by the fire yesterdav, 
 and in a little while returned, and found two Friends standing in 
 the grave yard, who hardly knew whether to go into the meeting- 
 house or not ; but I encouraged them to go in, so we went and sat 
 down : our meeting amounted to four members of the meeting on 
 the men's side, and two women and a child on the other, with 
 about as many from other meetings, — and a minute was made by 
 a Friend, adjourning the meeting for one week ; the clerk we 
 understood is burnt out. 
 
 "25£A. — Went to a meeting for the scholars at Clerkenwell 
 
140 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1794. 
 
 School, which was attended by only a few Friends, but hope it 
 was to some profit. 
 
 " 26th. — A low time, in a sense of my weakness and unworthiness. 
 The prospect of a family visit is removed out of sight, and it is 
 proving to be here so long, just attending meetings as they come in 
 course. In conversation with my friend this morning, I find our 
 feelings very much correspond. This evening, on looking over the 
 day, and also those days which I have spent in London, what can 
 I say or do more than the poor publican did I We poor creatures 
 can neither add to, nor take from the work. 0! that neither care- 
 lessness, nor unwatchfulness, nor sloth may be laid to my charge. 
 I am jealous and afraid of myself. 
 
 "31s#, Fifth-day.— To Eatcliff Monthly Meeting; which, 
 although small, I hope was an edifying time to some. In the even- 
 ing, went to the Park meeting with Sarah Rudd, which was the 
 largest I have been at, and my mind was drawn forth towards the 
 youth ; and yet, notwithstanding such seasous, what a poor stumb- 
 ling creature I seem to be. I laid down in pain and exercise, and 
 had a tossing uneasy night. I am a poor unworthy instrument, 
 if indeed I dare to number myself among the Lord's instruments. 
 I preach to others, and yet see my own shortness. Lord, in thy 
 wonted mercy, stretch forth thy crook of love and tender com- 
 passion to me, as thou hast done abundantly in time past. 
 
 " Eighth Month 3rd. — At Devonshire House meeting, I was 
 favoured with a sweet, calming, refreshing time in silence. E. M. 
 was there, and appeared after some time of silence, and then I 
 was favoured with an open time. In the afternoon, went to Grace- 
 church Street meeting, which was large, and I hope profitable, 
 my heart being enlarged and my mouth opened. Returned home 
 and sat a little while with dear Elizabeth Drinker, who seems to 
 weaken, but is in a precious child-like state of innocency. This 
 has been a comfortable encouraging day ; may the Lord have the 
 praise, who can and does raise up as from the dust, and sets the 
 poor soul at liberty. 
 
 " 4th. — My mind was thoughtfully exercised before day-light 
 this morning, in regard to proceeding in the family visit, laid 
 before Gracechurch Street meeting a month ago this day. A 
 female companion has been waiting a month to join me, and I 
 have been shut up from going on, and this morning am still poor 
 and blind. O Lord my God ! preserve me from joining in with any 
 thing which will mar thy work ! I am poor and blind, thou art 
 riches, light and life : I prostrate myself before thee. I know 
 
1794.] MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEEGOOD. 141 
 
 not what step to take. Lord, graciously condescend to the low 
 estate of thy servant, and send forth thy light and thy truth, 
 and let them guide my feet. 
 
 " 7th. — As I was going down from my chamber, I met Joseph 
 Smith coming to inform me, that they thought Elizabeth Drinker 
 was departing. I went into her room and found her almost gasp- 
 ing for breath, but after a time she revived. 
 
 " 8th. — In my wakeful moments last night, heard dear Eliza- 
 beth Drinker; and sometimes she appeared, by the melody of her 
 voice, to be singing. I did not rise until late, soon after which, 
 Dr. Fox came, and I went into her room with him ; and whilst 
 we sat with her, she appeared melodiously in supplication in 
 broken sentences. 
 
 " 9th. — Dear Elizabeth appeared to me to be singing praises 
 in the night, and early this morning. What a desirable state she 
 is in ! 0 my poor soul ! wait on thy God for the discovery of 
 his will and ability to do it. 
 
 " Ten o'clock. — I have just left E. D. On sitting down by 
 her, 1 asked if I should remember her love to Friends, as I was 
 writing home; she answered, ' Yes, give my love — I love them:' 
 and then turning from the subject, said distinctly, ' 0 the pearl 
 gates ! 1 After a few minutes I asked her if she wished to send it 
 to her dear husband and daughter. She answered, ' O ! yes, let it 
 go ;' with much affection and great earnestness. This morning 
 when I went first into her room, she said in a broken manner, ' O 
 my dear husband! 1 — and then spoke of the wall of the heavenly 
 city, the gates and the hewing and squaring of the materials, 
 which bespoke where her thoughts were placed, 
 
 " 10th, First-day. — Dear E. D. is very low; a little before 
 meeting time I went up with the doctor to see her, and apprehend- 
 ing she would not suddenly depart, I ventured to go to Grace- 
 church Street meeting, which was large, and my heart was largely 
 drawn forth. The doctor returned with me — found our dear friend 
 alive : I went to the afternoon meeting and was asrain enlarged in 
 testimony. Whilst John Townsend, Joseph Smith, and I were 
 sitting by dear E. D., she seemed in a great struggle with the 
 phlegm, and looked around at us, and moved her hand as though 
 she wanted to say something. Soon after this she was helped out 
 of bed, and before she could be got back again, she very quietly 
 expired. I have been for days past, in a state of much weakness. 
 I am thankful, however, this evening, not only to feel pretty 
 comfortable in body, but relieved from considerable pressure and 
 
142 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCA.TTERGOOD. 
 
 [1794. 
 
 conflict of mind. ' When the dead are at rest, let their remem- 
 brance rest ; and be comforted for them when the spirit is departed 
 from them.' 
 
 "\2th, Third-day. — Feel more comfortable and revived in 
 bodily strength. 0 ! what a path I tread, and yet what cause of 
 reverent thankfulness that I am counted worthy to labour and 
 suffer for the Lord's cause ! if I dare use the expression. Labour 
 to hold fast, O my soul ! Went to Devonshire House week-day 
 meeting, which was held for the first time in the new house, 
 ( women's), and a very comfortable time it was. In the afternoon 
 Mary Stanton came to see me ; a young woman who was at 
 the Peel meeting in the afternoon of the First-day that I left 
 Gracechurch Street meeting to go there. It was a laborious and 
 a low time, but towards the close, my mind was enlarged to such 
 as were seeking the way to Zion, with their faces thitherward ; 
 and this young woman informs me that her doubts were answered 
 that evening, with respect to the attendance of our meetings. 
 
 "15^A. — At ten o'clock attended the remains of our dear de- 
 ceased friend Elizabeth Drinker to Gracechurch Street meeting 
 house, where was a very large meeting ; in the fore part, J. 
 Townsend appeared ; after which I had a pretty full opportunity. 
 We then accompanied the corpse to the grave yard, which was at 
 a considerable distance. There was a large collection of Friends 
 and strangers at the grave, and I had another opportunity 
 amongst them. 
 
 "17M, First-day. — Was at Tottenham meeting, which was 
 pretty large, and Thomas Shillitoe appeared in a very lively 
 manner ; protesting against the pride, equipage and high things 
 which so much prevail. When he had done, my mind was ex- 
 ercised to stand up pretty much in the same line, and I do not 
 remember that closer doctrine has been delivered by me, a poor 
 unworthy instrument, at any meeting in this land. The after- 
 noon meeting was a time of binding up, and my mind seemed 
 enlarged towards the young people and little children. 
 
 "23rd. — I hope my health and strength are recruiting; 0! 
 that devotedness of heart may be my happy experience. 
 
 " 29th. — Walked out this afternoon alone, bemoaning my pre- 
 sent imprisoned condition, and after I returned, withdrew into a 
 room where my condition came more fully before me, and in the 
 thoughtful exercise, the state of the great city of London, revived 
 again and again ; and on opening Cowpers Poems, this passage 
 first struck my view : 
 
1794.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 143 
 
 ' Cry aloud, thou that sittest in the dust 
 Cry to the proud, the cruel and unjust ; 
 Knock at the gates of nations — rouse their fears. 
 Say, wrath is coming, and the storm appears ; 
 But raise the shrillest cry in British ears ; ' 
 
 which seemed to correspond with the deep conflicts of my mind, 
 which has been ready of late to take up the prophet's language ; 
 ' Who hath believed our report V what can such poor unworthy 
 feeble instruments do to put forward the work of the Lord in 
 the earth ? 
 
 " 31st, First-day. — To Tottenham meeting, which was a time 
 of enlargement and favour to me, and I hope profitable to others. 
 
 " Ninth Month 2nd, Third-day. — Spent some comfortable mo- 
 ments in William Dillwyn's office ; being favoured I trust, with a 
 ray of heavenly light. Rode out about three or four miles before 
 dinner and feel better, — continue to take the doctor's prescription : 
 O ! that my heavenly Physician may condescend to heal me and 
 open my blind eyes. 
 
 " 5th, Sixth-day. — To London and attended the Meeting for 
 Sufferings, in which my mind was exercised to stir up Friends 
 to zeal in filling up their vacant places in this important 
 station ; and prepare for a day of suffering, if it should be the 
 great Master's will to suffer it to come. Several other weighty 
 subjects impressed my mind to mention, and it was a good time. 
 Returned home with my friends W. and S. D. after night — more 
 watchfulness and prayer needful. 
 
 " 7th, First-day. — To Epping meeting, which was very small 
 but a memorable time to me ; my heart being engaged to come 
 into a disposition to say, ' Not my will, but thine, O Lord ! be 
 done : ' who will do all things concerning us well. I had some 
 religious communication, and also in the afternoon — the latter of 
 an encouraging character. 
 
 " 8th. — Feel a renewal of strength both of body and mind this 
 morning : may praise and thanksgiving be rendered to the Pre- 
 server of men. 
 
 " Went to Chelmsford and attended the Select Quarterly 
 Meeting, — where I was seated between my much esteemed friends, 
 George Gibson and Elizabeth his wife, (formerly when in our 
 country, Elizabeth Robinson), and the consolation and comfort 
 that my soul witnessed in this opportunity, I cannot set forth. I 
 had to look back to my first acquaintance with this mother in 
 Israel, who was a mother in the Truth to me, who now sat near 
 
144 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. [1794. 
 
 me in the meeting, and after it owned me as a child. Truly the 
 Lord provides all necessary good things for his devoted people. 
 A few months after she had returned from her visit to our country 
 her husband was removed by death ; but her loss seems abun- 
 dantly made up by her present one, who is a prince in Israel. 
 
 " 9th, Third-day. — To the Quarterly Meeting, and although a 
 very rainy time, it was large, and I was comforted in the com- 
 pany of so many valuable Friends, and an open instructive time 
 I think it proved. Dined at R. Greenwood's with a large number 
 of Friends, and had a solid religious opportunity, my friends 
 G. G. and wife being with us. What a favour, I have thought, 
 to be thus noticed and cared for, by one whom the Lord made as 
 a sharp threshing instrument to me, in my own land. The works 
 of the Lord are indeed wonderful, and his doings among men are 
 hidden from the wisdom of this world. I am a poor creature, 
 unworthy of the many favours I receive ; and were it not for his 
 abundant mercy, I should be confounded and consumed. 
 
 " 12th, Sixth-day. — To a meeting at Tottenham, appointed 
 for a marriage. It was very large, many of the people of the town 
 being at it ; and I hope it was a profitable season. I went home 
 with T. Home, and when we sat down to eat, a number of Friends 
 being at the table, I hope it was a good time to all of us in humble 
 prayer. After tea we dropped again into silence, when this pas- 
 sage of the prophet impressed my mind ; ' It shall come to pass 
 in that day, that the ploughman shall overtake the reaper, and the 
 treader of grapes him that soweth seed ; and the mountains shall 
 drop sweet wine, and all the hills shall melt;'' from which I had 
 to speak encouragingly to the dear children of the family, as had 
 been frequently the case before ; and near the close of the oppor- 
 tunity, dear S. opened her mouth in testimony to the goodness of 
 the Lord. It was a heart-tendering time. 
 
 " 14th, First day. — Went to Gracechurch Street meeting, which 
 was pretty large, and I was favoured with one more thorough open 
 time, as also in the afternoon meeting. Spent the evening with 
 unusual sweetness of mind, and feel a renewal of bodily health, even 
 after such great exercise — what mercy ! 
 
 " 17th. — Attended Gracechurch Street, which was one of the 
 most open meetings I have been at in that house. The love of 
 the gospel flowed freely towards the poor in spirit. 
 
 " 18th. — To the Park meeting appointed for a marriage. E. 
 Bevington was there and favoured both in supplication and testi- 
 mony; and I hope it was to the profit of individuals present, as. 
 much tenderness appeared. 
 
1794.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 145 
 
 " 19th. — To the burial of Abraham Gray, at Winchmore hill. 
 This was a time of relief to me ; wherein serious weighty truths 
 were held forth. S. H. opened the service of this day to my com- 
 fort. Jacob Bell and Sarah Rudd appeared in the grave-yard, 
 and I had some further communication to make to the children of 
 the deceased, who were respectful and kind." 
 
 On the 19th of Ninth Month, 1794, he was taken sick and con- 
 fined to the house until the 28th. On the 26th, he writes: " after 
 dinner being alone, my heart was humbled into weeping. 0! the 
 many trials there are to pass through, in order to refine us. O 
 Lord my God ! thou knowest all things, and knowest what is best 
 for me : not my will but thine be done. Keep me in the work 
 and service unto which thou hast called me, until thou sayest it 
 is enough. 
 
 " 27th. — Rather better in health — 0! for more living substantial 
 improvement in the things of the kingdom. 
 
 " 30th. — Went to the Quarterly Meeting, which was comfortably 
 conducted : dined at Joseph Smith's with a number of Friends, 
 and think we were favoured both on sitting down to eat and after 
 dinner, with a singularly good time. Let praise be given to the 
 Lord most gracious. 
 
 " Tenth Month 1st. — At Gracechurch Street meeting; and, 
 although small, it was a sweet season of the spreading of heavenly 
 love. In the evening went to the youths' meeting, held in Devon- 
 shire House : it was large and solid, and the labour fell on me, and 
 I trust it was an edifying season. 
 
 " 5th, First-day. — Feel pretty comfortable this morning, both 
 in body and mind; a favour calling for continued thankfulness. 
 What fathers and mothers, brethren and sisters, are raised up to 
 be helps and comforts to me in this far distant land. Attended the 
 morning meeting at Tottenham, and the testimony of Truth was 
 close and searching to the libertines, as has frequently been the case. 
 
 " 9th, Fifth-day. — To the Monthly Meeting at Tottenham, and 
 in the gathering of it, my mind was covered with sweetness, which 
 ripened into an exercise that I was not easy to keep to myself, and 
 trust it was through Divine favour, a time of love to some of us. 
 After dinner at Thomas Home's, where there were a number of 
 Friends, we had a solid and instructive religious time, and in the 
 evening we were again favoured with Divine good. William 
 Forster, his two sons, sister Ann, and S. Fairbank came in, with 
 whom we had another opportunity, in the close of which S. Horne 
 appeared in prayer. Great and marvellous are thy works, O Lord! 
 
146 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1794. 
 
 Be pleased to strengthen thy servant to preach thy word with all 
 boldness, in the name of thy holy child Jesus. This has been a 
 day of enlargement, for which unmerited favour may my soul be 
 prostrated before Him whose power remains sufficient to open when 
 all appears closed up. 
 
 " 10th, Sixth-day. — Thoughtfully exercised this morning, what 
 to move in next : sometime after breakfast felt liberty to send for 
 T. Phillips — when the lad got near their door he met his wife and 
 daughter Ann, coming over to see us, and soon after came Thomas 
 also and Hannah Kendall ; with this little company, this family and 
 Mary Reynolds, I had an open encouraging opportunity from these 
 expressions ; 'many shall be purified and made white.' After it was 
 over, dear S. H. expressed a desire to accompany me to a Friend's 
 family, who had a son drowned about twelve months ago, on a 
 First-day afternoon. The lad was at meeting when S. E. and 
 Elizabeth Drinker both bore a remarkable testimony ; Elizabeth 
 saying among other things, that there was a person in the meeting, 
 who would be so suddenly taken, as hardly to have time to say 
 ' Lord have mercy on me.' Instead of going to meeting in the 
 afternoon at his father's request, the boy went to bathe in the river, 
 and on the way one of his acquaintances said to him, ' we had 
 better go to meeting,' but he refused and persisted in his design : 
 soon after getting into the water, he got out of his depth, and as 
 he could not swim, was suddenly drowned. I went into this family 
 quite a stranger, and soon after we sat down, dear S. addressed 
 the son and daughter present, in an affectionate manner, mention- 
 ing this awful circumstance ; also the trial of the family in parting 
 with a beloved brother-in-law ; and hoped the dispensation might 
 prove a blessing to both families. Much brokenness of spirit ap- 
 peared, and I hope it was a good time ; a door being opened by S. 
 for me. Returned back to T. Home's, and soon after J. H. and 
 C. 13., who had passed the meeting yesterday, came and drank tea 
 with us ; we soon, as with one consent, dropped into silence, and I 
 think it was a time that will be remembered by us all. My path 
 has been exercising in religious communication under this roof, 
 and the parents and children are made increasingly near to me. 
 
 " 1 '2th, First-day. — One more favoured meeting at Tottenham, 
 wherein very close labour has been bestowed on the backsliders. 
 
 *' \5th, Fourth-day. — In a lonely walk this morning I felt some 
 brokenness of spirit, of which I was glad ; the afternoon and even- 
 ing were not so pleasant, yet hope I have been measurably content ; 
 but fear I do not experience that advancement and firmness in the 
 
1794.] 
 
 MKMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 147 
 
 Christian life which is desirable. My days are few and fleeting : O ! 
 for greater religious improvement, and more wisdom and stability. 
 
 " 16th. — Attended Tottenham meeting, where the corpse of 
 H. 0. was brought, on the way to the burial ground, at Winch- 
 more hill. I had very close work, after which, went home with 
 T. Home. 
 
 " 19th, First-day. — To Gracechurch Street meeting, which was 
 large ; and a laborious time to me, in pleading with the high and 
 unconcerned ones, who will not come forward and join in the work 
 of Truth. In the afternoon meeting, my mind was drawn forth 
 to a seeking state, and felt much spent. 
 
 " 20th, Second-day. — Attended the morning meeting, which 
 was a time of sweetness and enlargement. 
 
 " 2,2nd. — To the burial of Rebecca, widow of Abraham Gray, 
 at Winchmore hill, which proved a solid time, and hope the meet- 
 ing was held to profit. After dinner my mind became exercised 
 to labour with the company present, to embrace the Divine call, 
 and enter into the vineyard and work. In the evening, had an- 
 other religious opportunity with some Friends who came in, which 
 was an open encouraging time. Truly I may acknowledge I am 
 favoured, far beyond my deserts, who am indeed a poor creature. 
 
 "■ 23rd. — To Tottenham week-day meeting, which was unusually 
 small, but solid and comfortable. 
 
 " 25th. — Set off in a post-chaise for Hitchin, and arrived there 
 a little before night. I felt poor and stripped, much like a stranger 
 and pilgrim on earth. 
 
 " 26th, First-day. — Went to the meeting, where 1 found a little 
 company of Friends, who were soon made near to me ; my spirit 
 was united with those, in every age, who had no certain dwelling- 
 place, and I was brought into near sympathy with the labourers 
 and travellers in this day ; and after a time stood up with the 
 subject before me, and was favoured with an open encouraging 
 time. The afternoon meeting was to me a silent contemplative 
 time, wherein the book of prophecy was measurably opened to read 
 in. After meeting went to see that dear aged servant of the Lord, 
 Samuel Spavold, and it was precious to me to be favoured to sit by 
 and converse with him, and to receive his blessing. He told me 
 the Lord was with me, and that he hoped I should be preserved to 
 the end. 1 1 longed to see thee, 1 said he, ' after I heard thou wast 
 come. Thou sees I am a poor old man ; I can't see thee, though 
 I sometimes say see ; but I am glad to hear thee. The Lord 
 has been wonderfully good to me, and I love him ; but sometimes 
 
 l2 
 
148 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SC ATTEKGOOD. 
 
 [1794. 
 
 I fear I cannot love him enough.' On mentioning the trials and 
 temptations to be met with, he said, 1 Don't fear the adversary, 
 for perfect love casts out fear ; my Divine Master has been won- 
 derfully kind to me, and given me victory over him ; I don't fear 
 him ; and he has enabled me to say to him in time past, Devil 
 do thy worst, I fear thee not. 1 After a little pause, he said, 'for 
 whose sake I know not, but these expressions have impressed my 
 mind, " there is that scattereth, and yet increaseth ; and there 
 is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty;" 
 be faithful, and so farewell.'' Sometime after, when we again 
 entered into conversation, he said to me, ' Don't take any burden 
 awny with thee. 1 After a little time, he continued, ' The Lord, my 
 Master, has been very kind, and has given me enough to live com- 
 fortably upon ; I have a dear Master. 1 I told him that I had heard 
 so in my own country, and it was encouraging to me to hope and 
 trust also, and endeavour to serve him. He replied, ' Yes, he will 
 be with thee ; thou art a favoured servant. 1 This was after an 
 opportunity with a room full of Friends, most of them young, to 
 whom I had something encouraging to communicate. ' I am going 
 home, 1 said he, ' and I am glad of it. 1 On my saying, Heaven 
 would be a happy place, free from all labour and toil, he said ; 
 ' with the church of the first born ; the general assembly ; I long 
 to be with them.' 
 
 " 27th. — Went to the Monthly Meeting, and it was an open 
 good time : supped at John Ransom's with a considerable number 
 of Friends ; we dropped into silence, and had, I hope, a solid 
 meeting. 
 
 " 28th. — To Isaac Sharples's to breakfast, and after it was over, 
 I trust the bread of life was broken amongst us ; then to J. W.'s, 
 where we were favoured with a good opportunity, Mary Stacey 
 being my fellow-helper ; from thence to Samuel Spavold's. 0 ! the 
 sweetness that accompanied my mind whilst with him ; and after 
 a season of silence, 1 kneeled down in supplication, and my soul 
 wrestled with the Lord our God for a blessing, both to be con- 
 tinued to his worthy aged servant, and for the continuation of it to 
 me in this land, and that if I should in time to come, be excused 
 from labours and travels abroad, my soul might rest as his does ; 
 and that the Lord would favour his heritage, and raise up labourers 
 and send them forth. The dear old man expressed his satis- 
 faction, and told me, he could not fully express the love he felt for 
 me, and for the labourers the Lord is sending forth ; ' For, 1 con- 
 tinued he, ' His work will be carried on. The Lord will favour 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 149 
 
 and bless thee. Master will prevail— his work will go forward.' 
 We parted with much affection." 
 
 After visiting a few families, he took post-chaise and rode to 
 Hertford, where he attended their week-day meeting, and visited 
 a number of families and some aged individuals, and arrived in 
 London on the e.vening of the 30th ; the next day he attended 
 the scholars' meeting, at Clerkenwell. 
 
 "Eleventh Month 2nd, First-day. — To Gracechurch Street meet- 
 ing, and had a laborious time in caution and warning to Friends, 
 to endeavour to stand armed against the evil and trying day. In 
 the afternoon silent. 
 
 "5th, Fourth-day. — To Gracechurch Street meeting; a laborious, 
 trying season, both in the first and second meeting, but not alto- 
 gether without some comfort.'" 
 
 Extract of a letter, written by him, dated Stoke Newington, 
 near London, Eleventh Month 6th, 1 794. 
 
 " I am now at the house of my friend Richard Chester ; an 
 elder whom I chose to accompany me, when way might open, to 
 conduct me into the families of Friends belonging: to Gracechurch 
 Street Monthly Meeting, and who has been waiting for that pur- 
 pose. Thou wilt find by my letters, that I have had rather a 
 singular path to step in, having been landed several months, and 
 no settled fixed line of service has opened. Within a few days, 
 some little opening has presented, and we have been into some 
 families ; and although in much weakness and fear, and not with- 
 out some trembling at the prospect ; yet so far, it has produced 
 peace, and a willingness is wrought in my mind to proceed, as 
 Truth may open the way, and I think it not unlikely that I may 
 winter in and near this great city. It is a place my mind was 
 peculiarly drawn to, when at home, and also the latter part of the 
 time I was at sea ; a place in which peculiar exercise has been my 
 lot, both in meetings and out of them. 0 ! that I may be favoured 
 to dwell so low and deep, as to be enabled to leave it with that 
 peace, of which my soul is in pursuit. I have thought of late of 
 my tour to the south, and remember how the remote part of Georgia 
 lay most on me, and the covenant I entered into, at the time when 
 thou wast my careful nurse, that if the Lord would but raise me 
 up, and give me to experience the sense of his love, and go with 
 me, I would follow him to the end the land. I magnify that 
 Divine hand and arm that went with ^ 4 supported me all along, 
 and through peculiar exercises in that remote spot. How the scene 
 
150 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1 794. 
 
 is changed; they were poor, and I was brought nearly to sympa- 
 thize and feel with men of low estate, in their little cottages. 
 Now there is an abounding; — O ! the perfection, there is here, as 
 to outward beauty and comeliness ! Herein are trials that are 
 fresh and new, — and I think of dear Rebecca Jones' bemoaning 
 language ; ' I am by far a poorer creature than thou hast any idea 
 of ; and doubt my getting through to the honour of the great 
 Master.' Thou mayst tell her, that I have occasion frequently to 
 remember her advice : ' Be not afraid of the rich and great,' &c. 
 I may also say that I have been favoured at seasons to penetrate 
 through the shell or covering, and find precious ones here and 
 there ; and with such 1 have been permitted to drink of the brook 
 by the way, greatly to our refreshment." 
 
 In a letter to S. H., written about this time, he says : 
 
 " I have frequently thought of putting my pen to paper, and 
 telling thee a part of my trials, but could not until this morning. 
 O ! that the Shepherd of Israel may be thy Leader, enlarge thy gift, 
 and make thee a blessing to many. Wait then, my friend, patiently 
 wait under all thy trials, for the live coal from off the holy altar, 
 to warm thy heart and touch thy lips. This is what will make 
 our words drop as oil, to the strengthening of the true mourners 
 and upright burden bearers. Without a doubt thou art called, 
 and as thou keepest in lowliness and humility, thou wilt come yet 
 more and more into the state of the chosen of the Lord : ' Ye have 
 not chosen me, but I have chosen you, that ye should go and 
 bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain.' 0 ! that like 
 Moses, thou mayst be favoured to throw all glittering preferments 
 behind thy back, and learn more and more what a Christian's life 
 is, meditating in the law of life ; and then no matter what thy 
 conflicts and inward exercises may be, life will spring up in the 
 Lord's own time, and a testimony to his goodness, mercy and 
 power will be put into thy mouth. As poor as I have been, and 
 indeed was on sitting down to write this letter, faith has arisen 
 with respect to thee, and the desire to hold forth the language of 
 encouragement. I might go on and fill my paper, but perhaps I 
 have said enough, especially when we look back and remember 
 those precious seasons of heavenly regard we have been favoured 
 with, when the canopy of Divine love has been so remarkably 
 spread over us ; which are frequently revived in my mind, and 
 the language has arisen, 1 trust in sincerity, 0 Lord ! preserve the 
 parents unto thy everlasting kingdom, and favour the children.' 
 
1794.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SC ATTERGOOD. 
 
 151 
 
 '■'■Eleventh Month 9th, First-day. — Went to Gracechurch Street 
 meeting, which was large, and a relieving time to me from these 
 words, that rested on my mind to begin with : ' 0 ! that there was in 
 them an heart to fear me, and to keep my commandments always ; 
 that it might be well with them, and their children after them.' 
 Went to afternoon meeting, which was thought to be one of the 
 largest almost ever known, without notice being given. My mind 
 was sweetened with a sense of Divine love, and under this I had 
 encouragingly to labour for the help of others ; a seeking seed 
 being present. After the meeting, visited several families, and 
 this evening I feel peaceful and easy, and it is in my heart to 
 return the tribute of praise to the Lord my Helper." 
 
 From the 1 Oth to the 1 6th, he was closely engaged in visiting 
 families belonging to Gracechurch Street meeting ; but from this 
 time to the 30th, the way being closed for further labour, he 
 remained in the city and its neighbourhood, taking the meetings 
 as they came in course. 
 
 " 30^, First-day, — To Gracechurch Street meeting morning 
 and afternoon : in the morning a laborious close time, yet was 
 favoured with a good degree of sweetness and ease, and felt com- 
 fortable after it. At the breaking up, a young man came and 
 spoke to me, and acknowledged in a tender manner, that his con- 
 dition had been spoken to. The afternoon meeting was large, and 
 an open time with the poor of the flock. Several Friends spent 
 the evening with us, and I was favoured with a good time in 
 prayer ; my burthen is lightened ; for this favour may thanks be 
 given to Him who is ever worthy. 0 ! it is good to be thankful in 
 all states and conditions, even the most proving. 
 
 " Twelfth Month 1st. — This day begins another month, and I 
 feel like making a new beginning. The old exercise seems passed 
 away, and I do not find condemnation for travelling so far in this 
 concern in the manner I have, and so feel willing to resign up all. 
 O ! that the all-sufficient power of Him who makes all things new, 
 may be near to help me in future labours, travels and exercises. 
 
 "Attended the select meeting, in which S. F. appeared in suppli- 
 cation ; and when she arose, I believed it right for me to continue 
 the same ; and my mind felt comfortable and easy after meeting. I 
 feel resigned to whatever my Lord and Master may be pleased in 
 wisdom to inscribe upon me, and to perform what further labour 
 may be right ; either to pursue the family visit, or other work in 
 a different line. Good is the Lord and worthy to be waited upon. 
 
 " 7th, First-day. — Attended Gracechurch Street meeting, which 
 
152 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 was large, open, I trust, and favoured ; as was also the afternoon 
 meeting. Had a good time with the family in the evening, and 
 laid down fatigued, but preciously peaceful and easy in mind. 
 
 " 10th. — Attended the Monthly Meeting of Gracechurch Street; 
 and it proved a blessed opportunity, and hope it was profitable 
 to individuals. 11 In the evening, he was taken sick, and remained so 
 for several days ; and in a letter, dated 15th of this month, after 
 speaking of his indisposition, he remarks, " You will find that I 
 am frequently thrown back by indisposition and other ways ; but 
 do not be discouraged, — I am helped along ; and though my deten- 
 tion has been singular in this part of the city, I dare not doubt it 
 has been in the ordering of Divine wisdom : and the sweetness of 
 that soul-enriching peace, which is my portion, (in humility be it 
 spoken,) is more than an adequate reward for all that I have had 
 to pass through, in order to prepare for the work. 
 
 " 16th. — Opens again the family visit. — Sat with J. G. 13. at 
 eleven — an open encouraging time ; after which I had a remark- 
 able opportunity with a woman Friend and her daughter, from 
 these words: 'The Lord is my Judge,' &c. ; the daughter was 
 affected so that tears rolled down her cheeks, and the mother was 
 also tendered. 1 ' 
 
 From the 16th of this month to the 6th of the First Month, 
 1795, he was daily engaged in visiting families; in which he was 
 favoured to administer to the spiritual states of individuals, in 
 many cases in a remarkable manner. 
 
 Having for some time believed it would be required of him to 
 offer himself to Devonshire House Monthly Meeting, to go from 
 family to family, he attended that meeting on the 6th of the 
 First Month for that purpose, which he thus describes; — "A 
 low time in the first meeting ; but I could not forbear to mention 
 my prospect of a family visit, with which Friends united, and ap- 
 pointed a committee to assist me in the work : soon after which I 
 went and sat a little time in the women's meeting, — and men- 
 tioning what I had done, several expressed their satisfaction and 
 unity with the proposal; which was encouraging to my tried mind. 
 
 u 7th. — This has been a day of sorrow and exercise, having 
 undertaken more work in this great city; and it feels discouraging 
 that so little fruit appears after the arduous labour bestowed in this 
 [Gracechurch Street] meeting ; yet I hope it will not be altogether 
 fruitless. O my weakness and poverty ! Who is sufficient for 
 these things. 
 
 "8^A. — A comfortable night's rest, and feel rather more courage 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 153 
 
 this morning. 0 Lord ! my helper, enlighten the eye of thy ser- 
 vant, for in vain is the help of man ! Be pleased to favour me 
 with ability to see and to do thy blessed will." 
 
 From the 8th to the 13th, he continued engaged in visiting 
 families ; and having received information of the death of Samuel 
 Spavold, he went to Hitchin, the place of his abode, to attend the 
 burial. 
 
 l 'l5th. — To meeting at eleven o'clock, where the body of our 
 deceased friend was brought. It was a large, mixed meeting, and 
 I thought a low time. 0 for preservation on such occasions, when 
 there is so much looking to instruments ! I followed the corpse 
 to the ground, where I could not forbear uttering these expressions, 
 with some little addition ; ' My father, my father, the chariots of 
 Israel, and the horsemen thereof;' with a desire, that the youth 
 of that neighbourhood might be favoured to take up the mantle of 
 this faithful servant of the Lord. Dined with the widow, children, 
 and grand-children, &c, and was engaged in prayer at the table. 
 After dinner, came in Mary Pryor and Sarah Rudd, who had 
 some lively communication, which opened a further door for me 
 fully to relieve my mind." 
 
 On the 1 6'th, he returned to London, and spent next day mostly 
 at home. "On the 18th, attended Barking meeting, where the 
 body of John Harvey was brought, — the house could not contain 
 the people so as to get seats ; it was a pretty open time, and after 
 it I had a good opportunity with the widow, children, and other 
 relatives. 
 
 " 23rd. — I sat with several clerks, &c, at the meeting house 
 chamber, and afterwards had an open time of encouragement with a 
 number of females at the same place ; being the last opportunity laid 
 out by the committee within this meeting, (Gracechurch Street.) 
 My weakness was great, but strength arose, and I was favoured 
 to relieve my mind ; and after they were gone I sat down, and in 
 weakness and humility, looked over my arduous labour within this 
 meeting; and though sensible I am a poor unprofitable servant, 
 yet felt thankful in that enriching peace was my portion. 
 
 "26th. — Went to the morning meeting, where an exhortation 
 to servants, written by Job Thomas of Wales, was read, and a 
 committee appointed to correct it. In the evening I met them at 
 John Eliot's, and it proved a time to be remembered. 
 
 "28^7*. — Attended Gracechurch Street meeting, and through 
 Divine favour, my mind was supported, and I hope enabled to 
 worship in humble silent prostration, and was favoured with some 
 
154 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD 
 
 [1795. 
 
 precious openings. 0 for more religious weight and depth ! that 
 so the Divine blessing may rest upon me through the future labours 
 in this great city. I have need to be baptized again and again for 
 so great a work. 
 
 "30*A.— Went with J. Smith to the Monthly child ren's Meet- 
 ing at Clerkenwell, and was favoured with a pretty open time. 
 Meeting with my friends T. Home and daughters, I concluded to 
 go home with them to Tottenham, where 1 met, as usual, much 
 openness, and we had a comfortable sitting with the family and 
 several Friends. 
 
 "31s£. — Spent this morning in reading; hoping that before long 
 my Divine Master will appear, and set me to work again in his 
 harvest-field." 
 
 About this time he received a letter from his friend J. W., 
 dated Twelfth Month 11th, 1794, from which the following is 
 taken, viz : 
 
 "We often think of thee, and sometimes talk about thee, since 
 thou hast left thy native land, thy endeared wife and children, and 
 also thy beloved friends ; in many of whose hearts, I believe thou 
 hast obtained a large place. I may acknowledge that it is cause of 
 thankfulness to the Father of mercies, that ever I saw thy face and 
 heard thy voice, being as a tender nursing father to me, even before 
 thou knew me outwardlv, but was made sensible of my inward state 
 and condition, and in the precious light of Truth, didst seal instruc- 
 tion on my heart, and afford abundant encouragement to me, to 
 press forward in that high and holy way, which, through Divine 
 kindness, and the teachings of the Holy Spirit, has been cast up 
 and made plain to my understanding. Thy testimony also greatly 
 tended to confirm me in the prospect which had been spread before 
 the view of my mind, in a very remarkable manner; that some day 
 or other, the Lord had a service for me to do; namely, to publish 
 his gospel message to the people. This was at a time when I had 
 read very little in Friends 1 books, was not joined with them in 
 their holy profession, and knew but little about them: and the first 
 time thou saw me and took notice of me, it afforded me much en- 
 couragement, at a time when often under doubts and discourage- 
 ments. 
 
 " May I treasure in faithful remembrance the several eminently 
 favoured opportunities I have, since that day, had in thy company, 
 and in hearing thy testimonies, which have been as marrow to 
 my bones, or as cold water to a thirsty man.'" 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTDRGOOD. 
 
 1 55 
 
 '■'•Second Month 2nd. — Went to the select meeting in London, 
 which was a memorable time, though exercising to me. The 
 Address by Job Thomas being again read, it was concluded to send 
 it to him to publish. 
 
 "3re?. — To Devonshire House Monthly Meeting; and although 
 low in the fore part, it was a day of some comfort to me; Friends 
 conducting their business in much brotherly love. 
 
 "4th. — Attended Gracechurch Street Monthly Meeting; and in 
 the fore part had a relieving time, though it was low water in tbe 
 beginning. The testimony of Truth was very close to such as had 
 neglected the visitations of their youthful days. A memorial con- 
 cerning our beloved friend Elizabeth Drinker was brought forward. 
 On the whole I seem somewhat relieved; but it is remarkable 
 how one thing after another detains me in London. I love its 
 inhabitants, and travail in spirit for the welfare of all ranks 
 and classes. 
 
 ii 5th. — Set off this morning, accompanied by George Stacey and 
 Rachel Smith, to the burial of the wife of Simeon Hagen, at Staines, 
 and the corpse was taken into the meeting, in which I was shut up 
 in silence. Ann Crowley, a young woman, sat near me, and ap- 
 peared under exercise, but did not give up to speak ; and at the 
 grave I thought she again appeared under a concern to express 
 something to the people ; so 1 took her by the arm and put her 
 before me, and soon after she spoke, and thus opened a door for 
 me to labour. 
 
 " 8th. — To High Wycombe meeting, and was shut up in silence. 
 My strippings and provings of late have increased, and I feel very 
 little strength to minister to others, the cause of which my soul is 
 anxious to know. The Lord can turn a barren wilderness into a 
 fruitful field ; but I sometimes fear that I am in the circumstance 
 that Moses was, when the Lord met him by the way going towards 
 the land of Egypt with the Lord's message : it seems he had for- 
 gotten or neglected doing his duty. My past condition sometimes 
 comes up, and the prayer of my heart is, that my Divine Master 
 may cause his light more and more to arise and shine in me, that 
 nothing which is wrong may lie hid ; for I see heaven is a clean 
 and pure habitation. And now, O Lord my God ! graciously con- 
 descend to the low estate of thy servant — open the way and go 
 before me in this land ; and if thou go not with me, take me not 
 hence ! 0! guide my heart and my tongue, that I may not speak 
 a false vision in this land. 
 
 " llth, Fourth-day. — To Gracechurch Street meeting, poor and 
 
156 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 stripped. The body of Frances, wife of Joel Cadbury, was brought 
 there, and the meeting was pretty large. John Townsend opened 
 the service, and it was once more a time of enlargement with me, 
 and I hope measurably, a tendering season. 
 
 "15^/i, First-day. — The meeting at Devonshire House was 
 pretty large, and I laboured among them in much bodily weakness. 
 Saw a little light on the family visit. 
 
 "16th. — This afternoon opens the family visit in Devonshire 
 House Monthly Meeting, accompanied by Simon Bailey." 
 
 The following letter, dated London, Third Month 1st, addressed 
 to his friend S. Harrison, at that time on a religious visit in Eng- 
 land, gives an account of his labours about this time, and will serve 
 to show the close fellowship which subsisted between these two 
 devoted servants, while engaged in similar labours, to promote the 
 cause of Truth and Righteousness. After acknowledging her 
 acceptable letter, which came to hand a few days previous, he 
 says : 
 
 " Thou hast been favoured to hit the nail on its head in nearly 
 every stroke. What a blessing, that one fellow-servant should be 
 so dipped into feeling and sympathy with another at a distance, 
 and without knowing or hearing by outward information, as thou 
 sayest was thy case. My exercises, both in meetings and families, 
 some of them at least, I think have been singular. I was favoured 
 to get through Gracechurch Street meeting much to the peace of 
 my own mind ; having a kind, attentive yokefellow, and who con- 
 tinues to be my near friend. In the opening and liberty I feel 
 whilst writing to a dear sister, I will give thee a little sketch of 
 my winding up in that business. 
 
 " The last opportunity was with a little company of female 
 servants, who could not be seen in the families where they lived, 
 held in the meeting-chamber. Felt poor, as if it was indeed the 
 last running of the little oil ; however, we were, I hope, somewhat 
 tendered together ; after which, being left alone, I sat down under 
 reflections that one more arduous undertaking was got through ; 
 and although I had to acknowledge in secret to the goodness, mercy 
 and power of the good Shepherd, in putting forth and condescending 
 to go before, yet I remembered also, what He told his beloved 
 disciples on a like occasion ; ' After ye have done all that I have 
 commanded you, say we are unprofitable servants : we have done 
 no more than was our duty,' &c, and so wound up quiet, calm and 
 easy. After this I had a humbling dispensation to go through, 
 
1795.] 
 
 MFMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 157 
 
 having some time before the finishing of this visit, laid a similar 
 prospect before Devonshire House Monthly Meeting, in much weak- 
 ness, and now had to look towards the accomplishing of that. But, 
 0 ! the strippedness I was brought into ; and the concern was so 
 much removed, that I could see no time to make a beginning. 
 
 While I was in this state, came to London with some 
 
 prospect of joining me in the service of Truth ; but his coming 
 did not relieve me, nor open my way, — his mind having been turned 
 towards Westminster meeting, and he had let in thoughts, that 
 mine would be so likewise. I could neither see him to be the right 
 companion for me in the work in Devonshire House, nor a begin- 
 ning corner for myself, and he was made sensible of it. After he 
 commenced his visit, my way opened, and accompanied by Simon 
 Bailey, an acceptable companion, I have visited sixty-nine families 
 in the last two weeks. And truly, I find, beloved friend, that it 
 is good to be plunged down into Jordan's bottom, or deeply bap- 
 tized into weakness, nothingness and poverty, previous to such 
 engagements ; for way has since been made for me in a marvellous 
 manner, and ability given to relieve my exercised mind. What 
 a mystery is this ! Is it not a miracle, like the running of the oil 
 into the empty vessels borrowed by the poor woman formerly, 
 whereby she was enabled to pay her creditors. I have felt more 
 cheerful and easy since a way and means have opened to pay this 
 debt ; but we know all the honour is to be rendered to the ever- 
 lasting Prophet and Bishop of souls, who indeed is, and will be, a 
 very present help in the needful time to all that wait on him. So 
 dear sister, as thou hast been so favoured to encourage me, suffer 
 me to say to thee, and not without feeling — Lift up thy head in 
 hope, for surely the same good hand which has hitherto been 
 near, and enabled thee to set up thy Ebenezer, will not fail, 
 even though more such singularly exercising meetings may turn 
 up, as thou describes. ' Be careful for nothing, but in every 
 thing by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your 
 request be made known unto God this encouraging language 
 occurs to offer for thy help, and I trust, for my own also, being 
 often sensible of want. I hope I shall not say too much ; but 
 truly, when I think of our situation, as the only two messengers 
 now on this island from America, separated from all our near and 
 dear connexions, we may give way a little to those sympathetic 
 feelings we are favoured with. Approve thyself, therefore, and 
 that with a willing mind, a labourer that need not be ashamed — 
 rightly dividing the word. Thou knowest the fat and full must 
 
158 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 be fed with difterent food from the panting, bleating sheep. Alas ! 
 alas ! how many there are of the first description, not only under 
 our name, but amongst the people at large, although the Judge 
 appears to be so near the door. Well, dear friend, amid all which 
 we may have to wade through for the Lord^ sake, I think I see, 
 and hope I am not deceived, that the strength of Israel is yet with 
 his people, and that the declaration of the prophet will be more 
 fully brought to pass ; ' The Lord will comfort Zion : he will com- 
 fort all her waste places ; he will make her wilderness like Eden, 
 and her desert as the garden of the Lord : joy and gladness shall 
 be found therein, thanksgiving and the voice of melody. 1 There 
 are precious plants, even little children, in this city, who, by keep- 
 ing faithful to the Lord, will in due time have this song, or one 
 similar to it, to sing. The Lord is blessing Zion ; but O ! how 
 poor and desolate she sits in this great city : are not her sons found 
 slain at the head of every street ? And for this I have mourned. 
 I might enlarge, but this is enough, perhaps, to show thee where 
 my dwelling-place has often been for months past." 
 
 He continued engaged in visiting the families of Devonshire 
 House Monthly Meeting until the 17th. In this visit he had often 
 to commemorate the goodness of his Divine Master, for furnish- 
 ing him with ability to speak to the conditions of those he visited ; 
 as well as for the enriching reward of peace, graciously vouchsafed 
 in fulfilling the duty. 
 
 " Third Month \Sth.~ To Peel Monthly Meeting, and was 
 silent in the fore part. Ann Christy opened her concern to visit 
 families, and I waited to know my Divine Master's will concerning 
 me, but was quite shut up, although I attended with some little 
 prospect of moving in a like concern. 
 
 " \9th. — This morning I took coach and went to Ratcliff 
 Monthly Meeting, in the fore part of which I sat in a state of 
 poverty ; but before the meeting ended felt an opening to speak to 
 an exercised state present. Went home with Joseph Smith ; all 
 my prospects seem gone again. Am I not indeed an unprofitable 
 servant? It is well if 1 can say I have done all, and as it should 
 be done. I am a poor creature, yet am favoured to feel pretty 
 quiet and resigned. I desire to be a devoted servant. 
 
 " 22nd. — To Tottenham meeting, and although I thought but 
 little more of this turn into the country than that it was pleasant 
 to accompany an elder sister, and get a little country air ; yet on 
 the road my mind was impressed with a sense of the uncertainty 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTEHGOOD. 
 
 159 
 
 of time, and the dreadfulness of being taken in the midst of worldly- 
 joys and lusts ; and early in the meeting I stood up with this con- 
 cern, and delivered it in few words ; after which, several Friends 
 appeared, and mostly to the same import — and it was a memorable 
 meeting ; but my mind was sorrowful, in a sense that there was 
 a disposition to put it off. 
 
 " 23rd. — The select Quarterly Meeting was a very trying time ; 
 I expressed some close things, under a sense of a forward spirit 
 prevailing too much in some. 
 
 " 24:th. — To the Quarterly Meeting, which was so large that the 
 people could not all sit down. There were a number of appearances, 
 and I thought I could have sat in a low place, with my mind and 
 mouth in the dust, for the sake of the little ones being brought 
 forward ; but felt a short testimony of encouragement arise to this 
 class, and to those struggling under difficulties, &c. ; and again at 
 the close expressed a desire, that Friends might be preserved under 
 the weight and sense of Truth, and be careful how and what they 
 spoke. At five o'clock attended the adjournment, which held until 
 near nine o'clock, and I had some very close things to say, being 
 sorry to behold an active busy spirit at work. I am jealous and 
 fearful of my own standing : the Lord knows my state ; and 0 ! 
 that I may be rinsed and washed from every stain, and preserved 
 unto the end. 
 
 " 25tk. — To another adjournment, at the tenth hour, which held 
 until near three o'clock ; passed through it without much to say, 
 in silent suffering on account of a forward spirit. Went in to the 
 women's meeting with my friend R. Chester, when he took in the 
 Memorials concerning Elizabeth Drinker and Deborah Townsend ; 
 and after they were read, I had a comfortable opportunity." 
 
160 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 1795. RECEIVES AN INTERESTING LETTER FROM ANN CROWLEY 
 
 EXTRACT FROM ONE FROM WILLIAM S A VERY RELIGIOUS ENGAGE- 
 MENTS IN AND NEAR LONDON LETTER FROM GEORGE DILLWYN 
 
 ATTENDS THE YEARLY MEETING IN LONDON TRAVELS IN ESSEX, 
 
 SUFFOLK, AND NORFOLK LETTER FROM JOHN ELLIOTT, WRITTEN 
 
 FROM PHILADELPHIA. 
 
 Whilst in London he received the following letter from Ann 
 Crowley. 
 
 " Skillingford, Third Month 24th, 1795. 
 " It is not without a degree of diffidence that I take up my pen 
 to address a father in Israel ; but as my mind has at seasons been 
 favoured with a glimmering hope, through the many clouds of 
 discouragements, that although many are my failings, yet I do 
 feel true desires to be enabled to tread in the footsteps of the flock 
 of Chrises companions ; I am encouraged to believe, that my 
 beloved friend will receive a few lines, although it come from a 
 babe in the knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom, in that 
 love which nearly unites the children of one father, whether aged 
 or young in years. It is not from an apprehension of having 
 much to communicate, nor from a desire to draw unprofitable 
 consolation from my dear friend, that I am induced to address 
 him at this time ; but as I have, I trust, in the liberty which 
 Truth gave, a little unfolded to him the exercise of my often dis- 
 couraged mind, I did believe it would not be altogether unaccept- 
 able, to hear a little how it fares with his poor friend ; who, though 
 often tempted to believe that she has not yet known her spiritual 
 eye to be anointed with the true eye-slave, nor her spiritual ear 
 to be enough unstopped, to distinguish the* voice of the true 
 Shepherd from that of the stranger ; yet can say she feels no 
 greater desire, than that she may be favoured clearly to behold 
 the pointings of the Divine finger; and when seen, be enabled, 
 by the assistance of the Lord's mighty power, to be obedient 
 thereunto ; that so she may indeed become a humble follower of a 
 crucified Saviour, although it may cost her the parting with a 
 right eye, or a right arm. After I parted with thee in London, I 
 
1795.] MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 161 
 
 went to Staines, where I spent near a week with my relations, 
 though my mind was so oppressed with the weight of the prospect 
 before me, that I had but little satisfaction in the company of any, 
 even of my nearest and dearest friends. I thought solitary places, 
 where I could pour out my petitions to the Searcher of hearts, and 
 supplicate for the continuation of his merciful regard, aid and 
 direction, were safest for me; well knowing that of myself I could 
 do nothing that would bring glory to my great Lord and Master, 
 or afford permanent peace to my own mind. I continued to feel 
 the weight of the exercise, and as yet knew of no companion who 
 was likely to join me ; but as I thought I felt at liberty to cast 
 my eye a little round amongst my friends, my attention was turned 
 towards one in particular, though I dared not write to her till I 
 had weighed it, as well as I was capable, in the true balance. 
 While endeavouring to do this, as my head was reclined on the 
 pillow, I suddenly felt a stop, and the weight of the exercise was 
 taken from me ; but my mind was left in a state of depression, for 
 what cause I knew not — the only consolation I felt was, that I 
 could appeal to my heavenly Father, in this language ; ' Thou 
 knowest, 0 Lord! that I desire to do thy will.' My mind remained 
 in a mournful state till morning, not being able to rejoice in the 
 hope that a ram was caught in the thicket; but felt as if some new 
 trouble awaited me. On rising in the morning, I found this to be 
 the case, as I received a letter from home, giving me the affecting 
 information of my dearly beloved mother being seized with a 
 repeated paralytic stroke, which so much affected her speech, as 
 scarcely to be understood in any conversation, and that the doctor 
 apprehended a sudden change might take place. Thou wilt, I 
 doubt not, conclude this was a close struggle for nature to bear, 
 and needed a fresh supply from the bountiful hand, to enable mo 
 to drink the bitter cup with patience and resignation. But blessed 
 be the name of the Lord, he is pleased often to mingle sweets 
 with the bitters, which proved to be the case now ; for, although 
 on my coming home, I found my dear mother so very weak and ill 
 in body, that there appeared no room to flatter ourselves with an 
 expectation of her recovery, yet her mind was favoured with such 
 a sweet calm, and appeared so remarkably patient under her 
 allotted affliction, that I scarcely dared to suffer a desire to enter, 
 that she might be restored to us again, believing our loss would be 
 her eternal gain. Thou mayst conclude I esteemed it a great favour, 
 to feel my mind relieved from the load of exercise which had so 
 long attended it, and at liberty to pay close attention to a dearly 
 
 M 
 
162 
 
 MEMOIPS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 beloved parent, whose tenderness and solicitude for her children 
 have been such, as seemed loudly to call upon us to use all our 
 endeavours to alleviate her affliction. But I may tell my beloved 
 friend in freedom, that here I brought fresh trouble upon myself ; 
 for as nature rejoices to shrink from suffering, so I was now glad to 
 shake off the prospect of being called from home, and thought 
 the will would be accepted for the deed, and that my whole atten- 
 tion should now be paid to waiting on my dear mother, and that 
 I should be excused from doing the Lord's work. 0 ! such was 
 the artful insinuation of the enemy of our soul's salvation, to 
 endeavour to draw my mind off from a strict, watchful attention 
 to the pointings of the finger of Truth. Well, it is with sorrow 
 of heart I say, he did in some degree gain his point, for I got 
 unprofitably from under the deep exercise which had so long 
 attended my mind, with the plausible excuse of performing my 
 duty to a beloved parent. This brought darkness over my mind, 
 and deep distress ; but blessed be the Lord, after he had in great 
 mercy, chastised with his rod, he was pleased to speak peace to 
 my soul, and I became instructed in the belief, that he that 
 loveth father or mother more than the Lord, is not worthy of him. 
 All must be given up to obey the voice of Him, who hath an 
 undoubted right to employ his servants and hand-maids, whom he 
 is qualifying to work in his vineyard, how and when he pleases. I 
 may tell thee, the prospect has again opened in my view, and I 
 believe my peace will be concerned in closing in with it, though 
 the time for moving is not yet clearly seen, nor do I yet know of 
 a companion ; but a little faith arises that one will be found, when 
 the full time is come for the offering to be made. Perhaps indul- 
 gent Goodness will allow me a little longer time to stay with my 
 sick parent, who is still living, though in a very weak state, 
 wholly confined to her bed." 
 
 " 26th, Fifth-day. — Went to Ratcliff meeting poor and low, but 
 had an open time of encouragement, and my mind is a little 
 raised ; near the close I desired Friends to inform their neigh- 
 bours, that I proposed sitting with them on First-day morning 
 next. 
 
 "27th. — Attended the school meeting, and after it, was 
 favoured with a good time with the boys and girls separately. 
 
 " 29th, First-day. — We found a very crowded meeting at 
 Ratcliff, and it proved an open time. The afternoon meeting was 
 also large and favoured : I stood up near the close, and told them 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 163 
 
 that I had seen that day good things in store for the inhabitants 
 of this neighbourhood, if on their part they would embrace the 
 visitations of the Holy Spirit ; and that as Divine Providence 
 had suffered a devouring fire to lay waste their outward habitations, 
 and they were now raising pleasant buildings on the ruins ; so if 
 they were willing to let the searching and overturning power of 
 the Lord lay waste their old buildings spiritually to the founda- 
 tion, and remove the rubbish out of the way, they in due time 
 would be favoured to be built up a church and people to his praise : 
 and testimony bearers would be raised up amongst them to pro- 
 mote the work. In the evening felt spent and poorly, but com- 
 fortable : let the praise for this day's support be rendered to the 
 Lord my Helper." 
 
 About this time he received a letter from his beloved friend, 
 William Savery, dated Philadelphia, Second Month 25th, 1795, 
 from which the following is extracted, viz : 
 
 " Dear Thomas, 
 " Perhaps it may have given thee some surprise, not to have 
 received a line from me since we parted. T waited to hear of thy 
 safe arrival, of which I was glad to be informed ; but it was only 
 a short time before I left home with my dear companions, to attend 
 the Indian Treaty ; and since we returned, but few opportunities 
 have occurred from this place. I am persuaded thou wilt be 
 furnished with many excuses for me, rather than place the 
 omission to the account of any declension of my love for thee, 
 or any want of brotherly sympathy with thee in thy arduous 
 engagements. No, — my dear brother, I can assure thee that I 
 felt more deeply for thee when thou wast about to leave us, than 
 I remember to have done upon any similar occasion, being no 
 stranger to the tribulated path thou hast had to tread in this land, 
 even amongst thy own people ; and I have no reason to believe 
 that the general state of things, in a religious sense, among those 
 to whom thou art sent, is such as to cause a less degree of exer- 
 cise, or a more easy path of labour. I am not surprised to find 
 that bonds and afflictions have been thy portion ; for so it must 
 be in every place where Christ Jesus, the Lord of life and glory, 
 does not reign — rejoicing cannot be the common or frequent 
 experience of his servants ; yet through faithfulness, we may at 
 times rejoice even in this ; that we are accounted worthy to suffer 
 in some measure for his sake, who suffered so much for us, that 
 he might bring many sons and daughters unto glory. 
 
 m 2 
 
1 6-4 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. [1795. 
 
 " I can readily conceive, my brother, that thy spirit will be 
 frequently wafted across the mighty waters, to visit thy brethren 
 and sisters of the North meeting, who have thee in frequent and 
 very affectionate remembrance ; and I trust many of us will 
 remain to be to thee, and thou to us, as living epistles written in 
 one another's hearts. When we are favoured to draw nisrh unto 
 Him who sitteth between the cherubim, may we mutually make 
 intercession that his holy Arm may continue to be our protection 
 and defence on every side. We may with thankful hearts 
 acknowledge, that much brotherly love continues with those 
 among us, who put forth their hands to support the ark of the 
 testimony ; but the riches and grandeur of this world, are leading 
 many into captivity. Our meetings are large, especially on First- 
 day mornings, when as many sometimes come as we can comfort- 
 ably accommodate on the men's side of the house ; and mercy and 
 goodness still follow us beyond what we deserve. 
 
 " Our very dear friends, Deborah Darby and Rebecca Young, 
 have been in the city during most of the winter, and have visited 
 the families of Friends in the lower meeting, [Pine Street,] 
 accompanied by Nicholas Wain, until he was taken poorly. They 
 have often visited us at the North meeting, and been largely engaged 
 in very affectionate labour, which, as I cannot doubt it has gained 
 the approbation of all, so I also hope it has been truly refreshing 
 and fruitful of good to many. They are greatly beloved by 
 every rank in society ; have been much favoured in our crowded 
 evening meetings, and have had a meeting in the North House, 
 and another in Pine Street, of an evening, for people of other 
 societies, and Truth's testimony was exalted in both. They also 
 held a meeting in the Jail, to which I accompanied them. The 
 poor prisoners, of whom there were about two hundred, were many 
 of them tendered, and some much broken ; and indeed it was a 
 solid favoured time. 
 
 " I am anxious that thou mayst not, as dear Samuel Emlen 
 says, ' abuse my fellow-servant 1 by greater exertion and more con- 
 tinual ^xercise and labour than thy bodily frame can support. Let 
 me remind thee, that we serve not a hard Master, or an austere 
 man, as thou well knowest ; therefore, embrace times of relaxa- 
 tion, as wisdom directs and opportunity offers, in order to recruit 
 thy health ; for I much desire after tby labours abroad are over, 
 to have the pleasure of sitting side by side with thee among our 
 own people, that we may be favoured to share together, as has 
 been the case in some measure heretofore, that inestimable peace, 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 165 
 
 which is the sure reward of faithfulness unto God. My brother, 
 pray for me, for Satan often desires to have me, that he may sift 
 me as wheat. My prayers attend thee, and in dear unity, I con- 
 tinue thy brother, 
 
 " William Savery." 
 
 His bodily health become much weakened by arduous labour and 
 exercise, and no religious service opening, he retired to his friend 
 W. Dillwyn's in the vicinity of London, with a view to recruit. At 
 the hospitable mansion of this Friend, and others in that neighbour- 
 hood and at Tottenham, he remained for three weeks, when he 
 returned to London, and in a letter, dated the 21st of the Fourth 
 Month, after referring to the improvement of his health and respite 
 from labour, he says; "I desire to attribute it to the mercy and 
 condescending love of the great Shepherd, who still sustains the 
 character anciently given ; ' I am the Lord that healeth thee ; 
 which teacheth thee to profit ; which leadeth thee by the way thou 
 shouldestgo,' — surely, I may say, it was so on First-day last, having 
 laboured in Gracechurch Street meeting both morning and after- 
 noon, and to my admiration was strengthened to speak to a great 
 crowd of people, at the burial of an ancient Friend, (Jacob Hagen) 
 in the evening, in which I was exercised in a close and awful 
 manner. 
 
 "I am now out of business — have attended all the Monthly 
 Meetings in this city, and trust I stood resigned to labour as wa}' 
 might open. My friends say, I have need of rest to recruit my 
 health, but for all that, I am almost ready sometimes to let in the 
 thought that I am too much of a loiterer, w T hen considering how 
 much time has slipped away." 
 
 The following letter from George Dillwyn, dated Redruth, 
 Fourth Month 18th, 1795, will serve as a specimen of his laconic 
 style. 
 
 " Dear Thomas, 
 "Thou and I correspond, in the letter way, like poor day labourers, 
 who have but little to spare to each other. The sparing of that 
 little, however, seems to be saying, ' if I had more thou shouldest 
 be heartily welcome to it. 1 For my part, when I have told my 
 friends where I have been ; where I am ; and (if I can) whither 
 I am likely to go, the end of writing is nearly answered and my 
 budget exhausted. I may congratulate thee on thy finish at 
 Devonshire House, [the family visit] and was pleased with thy 
 
166 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 retreat into the country ; though such little recesses from service 
 often remind me of a speech of the mate of the ship Pigou, one morn- 
 ing to the sailors ; 'Come lads, step down and get your breakfasts 
 as quick as you can, and then you will have nothing to do but to 
 work.' I have mentioned to my brother that I am now en^ajred 
 in a visit to the families within the western division of Cornwall. 
 We have just finished at this place, and after staying to the 
 meeting on Fifth-day, and a public meeting appointed for the 
 inhabitants to-morrow, expect to proceed to Marazion and Pen- 
 zance the day following ; but how afterwards, this deponent saith 
 not. Thy affectionate remembrance of me and my dear Sarah is 
 very acceptable, and we hope will continue. As to outward and 
 visible signs of it, though we do not pretend they are objectionable, 
 we do not by any means consider them as essential to the friend- 
 ship most surely subsisting (and long may it continue) between 
 thee and thy sympathizing fellow-servants. 
 
 " Gr. & S. DlLLWYN." 
 
 " Fifth Month \6th. — To the opening of the select Yearly Meet- 
 ing in London, — felt poor and unworthy ; sat in silent abasement 
 and felt content in that condition. 
 
 " 1 7th, First-day. — Went to Westminster meeting in a low 
 state of body ; and had an open time, particularly to the youth. 
 
 "18^A. — To the adjournment of the select meeting, and at four 
 to the opening of the Yearly Meeting for business. Felt a willing- 
 ness to bear my burthen and exercise in silence, and did so for 
 some time, but at length seemed as though I could not avoid bear- 
 ing testimony against a forward active spirit. 
 
 u 19th. — A time of exercise, not only on my own account, but 
 also for the right moving of the Yearly Meeting. Went to the 
 adjournment at ten o'clock, and had something to say in the fore 
 part, expressive of my exercise that the meeting might be pre- 
 served solid ; which was in good degree the case. 
 
 "20th. — The meeting for business at four o'clock, was a good 
 time. I also visited the women, accompanied by William Tuke, 
 to my satisfaction. 
 
 "23rrf.' — Ventured, although feeble, to go and sit the meeting, 
 which was the most solid time, I think, that we have had. The 
 minutes of the Meeting for Sufferings were read, and the state of 
 the little society at Pyrmont in Germany, came under considera- 
 tion, and Friends' attention was turned towards visiting them. 
 Dined at Thomas Home's with dear J ohn Storer and many others, 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD . 
 
 1G7 
 
 and after dinner I had a singular time of communication, and my 
 heart was measurably melted within me. Lord keep me in the 
 hour of trial, I pray thee, if thou suffer it to come : thou knowest 
 what is best for me. 
 
 "24^, First-day. — To Devonshire House meeting, which was 
 large ; S. Horne appeared in supplication, and I had a thorough 
 time of relief. To Gracechurch Street afternoon meeting ; was 
 very large, many strangers not of our Society being there, with 
 whom I had a full opportunity. 
 
 11 25th. — An humbling heart-tendering morning to me, with 
 prospects of service opening to my view. Thou, Lord, knowest 
 what is best for me, — O ! how can I move a finger without thy help. 
 0! keep me firm on the ground of Truth, come what will. 
 
 " 27th. — I sat about an hour and a half with the committee on 
 Ackworth School, and withdrew weak and poorly — Lord support 
 me to the end; and if thy blessed will is done all will then be well. 
 Went to meeting at the fourth hour, and soon after it was settled, 
 the clerk revived the concern which had been spread before a 
 former sitting, respecting a visit to the little company in Ger- 
 many, which held some time ; and the way closed up for making 
 such a visit, and it was recommended to the attention of the Meet- 
 ing for Sufferings. 
 
 " 28th. — To the last sitting of the select meeting, where I had 
 an opportunity pretty fully to relieve my mind, and in the after- 
 noon attended a special Meeting for Sufferings. I am glad and 
 thankful that my mind is resigned and easy. 
 
 " 31st. — Went to Tottenham meeting in poverty and a sense 
 of much unworthiness, and ventured to bend in supplication, and 
 found relief. I also reminded that assembly of the many opportu- 
 nities I had had among them, and that this was not likely to 
 be the case again soon, and probably some of them might see my 
 face no more in this world. I thought a solemnity spread over the 
 meeting, and divers other Friends appeared in testimony, much 
 to the same purport. 
 
 " Sixth Month Ast. — Went to London with W. D. and wife, to 
 morning meeting ; where were a number of country Friends. I 
 poured forth my tears in silence, under a sense of how near the 
 enemy was permitted to come, in order to overturn and lay waste 
 the work of Truth in my heart. ' Blessed are the pure in heart ;' 
 this language has been frequently in my mind of late. 
 
 " 2nd. — To Devonshire House meeting, which was small, but 
 I hope a time of some comfort and encouragement, and 1 found 
 
168 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 an opportunity to salute the youth in particular, and bid them 
 farewell. 
 
 " 3rd, Fourth-day. — Attended Gracechurch Street meeting, 
 and had a pretty open time to take leave of my friends.' 1 
 
 Under date of Sixth Month 4th, in a letter to his wife, he says : 
 " I was much "exercised during the Yearly Meeting, and my 
 health impaired, but as soon as it was over I went to Tottenham, 
 my usual resting place, and spent a few days at T. Home's and 
 W. Dillwvn's, and 1 am now, I think, as well as I was the first 
 week I landed. Whilst making a note in my diary to-day, I was 
 told there was one waiting to see me. I found it to be a youth, 
 who has of late attended Devonshire House meeting. He appears 
 convinced and turned in mind to the Divine principle of light and 
 grace. My heart rejoiced in his company, and at this time rejoices 
 in that, however poor and tried an instrument I have been in this 
 land, the Lord my Helper is in some instances, in degree, crowning 
 my labours with success. The praise is His due: I may not forget 
 some of the baptizing opportunities I have been favoured with in 
 this great city, and when permitted to behold some fruits, I feel 
 encourag ed." 
 
 " 5th, Sixth-day. — Left London after breakfast, in order to 
 attend the Quarterly Meeting at Colchester. Put up at John 
 Kendall's, and here met with Ann Tuke and companion, and a 
 number of other Friends. 
 
 " 7th, First-day. — To meeting, and was favoured to pour out 
 mv exercise in public prayer, and found some relief. The after- 
 noon meeting was large and mixed, and I sat nearly or quite two 
 hours in silence, and then a little opening presented, through 
 much exercise, and trust it was profitable. 
 
 "8th. — Attended the Quarterly Meeting and an adjournment; 
 in which I had some service. 
 
 "9^. To the parting meeting, the labour of which fell on me, 
 
 and through Divine help it was, I trust, a good solid time. Dined 
 at J. Kendall's; after which many Friends came in, and I had a full 
 opportunity to relieve my mind, to a state which I apprehended 
 was under the anointing for gospel service, — exhorting not to put 
 off out of season, but when the way clearly opened to make trial. 
 Parted with near affection from my dear friends Joseph and Rachel 
 Smith and sister, M. Stacey, who came thus far with me ; and 
 accompanied by my friend G. Stacey, who has given up to go with 
 me for some time, proceeded on our journey. 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 169 
 
 "10th. — Attended the week-day meeting at Ipswich, and was 
 silent ; in the afternoon went to Needham. 
 
 " Mth. — To Needham week-day meeting, and was engaged to 
 speak a little, near the close ; and in the evening to an appointed 
 meeting, in which I was silent. 
 
 "12£A. — To Ipswich Monthly Meeting: heard that dear John 
 Storer died on his way from the Yearly Meeting, within thirty 
 miles of home. 
 
 " \4?th, First-day. — To Ipswich meeting, and had an open time; 
 in the evening was a public meeting for the town's people, which 
 was very large, and although laborious, proved a good time : after 
 which, a precious season with a number of Friends. 
 
 " 15th. — In the evening at five we were at Woodbridsje meeting 
 where we put up at Benjamin Evens'. As I was sitting in this 
 meeting my mind was comforted in a belief, that although there 
 was the alarm of war and confusion in the land, the Lord would 
 remember poor desolate Zion, and in a time to come, build up her 
 walls and set up her gates : I had to mention my prospect to 
 Friends, and it was a sweet tendering time to some of us. 
 
 " \ 6th, Third-day. — To Suffolk Quarterly Meeting, at nine 
 o'clock, which held until two; and to the adjournment at four o'clock. 
 It was an open time, wherein much encouragement was admini- 
 stered ; and although but a small company, there are precious 
 plants among them. 
 
 "17$. — To what is called the parting meeting, which was a 
 sweet encouraging time ; and at the close appointed one for the 
 town's people, at six o'clock, which was large, but a very trying one. 
 0 ! the thick darkness that covers the minds of many ; however, 
 strength was afforded to labour. 
 
 " 18th. — To Leiston, and put up at an inn : the meeting was 
 an encouraging time, and some tenderness appeared : after meeting 
 rode to the widow Sarah Jesup's, and after dinner we called the 
 servants in, and had a good religious opportunity. Here Ann 
 Tuke's mind was impressed with a prospect of having a meeting 
 at a town called Orford, five miles on the way, and our kind friend 
 Dykes Alexander and others, went on to get a place. To which 
 we went, and held the meeting in a large room at the inn : it was 
 filled up with people, and though laborious, ended well. 
 
 " 19tk. — To Beccles, and attended meeting; very few of the 
 town's people came. Here is a pretty neat little Meeting-house, 
 but religion very low. Though I had to mourn the desolate state 
 of Zion, on sitting down, I thought that if I was the only one in the 
 
170 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 town, I could cheerfully sit down in that place and worship ; and 
 I had to testify, that when the Lord turns again the captivity of 
 his people, Judah shall rejoice, and Israel shall be glad. Had a 
 religious opportunity with the family and such Friends as came in, 
 belonging to the meeting. After tea went to Lowestoft, near the 
 sea. Dykes Alexander and others having gone before, to see after 
 a meeting place ; and having found a large building which was 
 fitting up for a play-house, we held the meeting in it. It was filled 
 up, and though there appeared a disposition to lightness and laughter 
 in some, at first sitting down, yet it proved a solid good time, and 
 afforded me much satisfaction. We returned to Pakefield, a little 
 village two miles distant, and lodged. 
 
 " 20th. — We had a small meeting this morning, which was open 
 and comfortable : some goodly, sober looking people attended, and 
 among them the priest of the parish, who was exemplary in his 
 sitting. After dinner went to Yarmouth, about twelve miles, 
 the sea. 
 
 " 21st, First-day. — To meeting, where I had to bear a remark- 
 ably close testimony. In the afternoon meeting I was silent, but 
 A. Tuke appeared in a lively manner. She had thought of having 
 a meeting at a little village called Grorleston, and some Friends 
 went to get a place to hold it in this evening, but could not succeed. 
 
 " 22nd. — Set off early, and got into Norwich by eleven o'clock, 
 to the select meeting ; and again to the Quarterly Meeting at five 
 o'clock. The men met in one house, and the women in another, a 
 mile distant. 
 
 " 23rd. — To the adjournment of the Quarterly Meeting, at ten 
 o'clock, which was a close time : I went also to the women's meet- 
 ing and relieved my mind ; after which, retired to Edmund Peck- 
 over's, being so spent as to conclude it not prudent to return to 
 the men's meeting. To a large public meeting at six o'clock. A. 
 Tuke appeared, but I was shut up in silence, and sweetly contented. 
 
 " — To a large meeting at ten o'clock, in which I was 
 engaged in the ministry, much to the relief of my own mind. 
 Went to Joseph Grurney's, and dined with J. Gr. Bevan, wife, and 
 others, and had a satisfactory religious opportunity afterwards ; 
 there appearing something good at work in the minds of these 
 young people. May such seasons of love be blessed to them all. 
 
 " 25th. — In the afternoon went to Lammas, to an appointed 
 meeting at five o'clock, and it proved a distressing time ; from 
 thence to North Walsham, and lodged at John Ransom's. 
 
 " 26th. — To meeting about a mile out of the town, held in a 
 
1795 ] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 171 
 
 neat meeting-house. A number of the neighbours came in, and 
 it was an open time : after dinner, rode to Norwich, and attended 
 the week-day meeting at six o'clock, where I had a very close testi- 
 mony to bear. 
 
 " 28th, First-day. — To meeting at ten o'clock, and had very 
 searching service. After lying down and being refreshed, went to 
 the large meeting-house at five o'clock, the meeting being put off 
 from two to that hour by my request ; it was very large, and I was 
 helped greatly to relieve my mind. At night 1 lay down weary, 
 but in peace. 
 
 " 29th. — Richard Gurney sent for us to dine with him, a few 
 miles out of town; where we found David Barclay, an ancient 
 Friend, much afflicted : after dinner had a religious opportunity, 
 to the relief of my mind, and then went to his brother John's ; had 
 a solid time with this family, wherein all our little band, even 
 William Alexander and George Stacey, had some communications : 
 returned home, and 1 feel a very poor creature, having been 
 humbled this day. 
 
 " 30th. — To the week-day meeting at Norwich, wherein I was 
 brought into a state of trembling, and remembered the prophet 
 Habakkuk : — I hope it was to profit. Dined at Thomas Bland's ; 
 and after being favoured with a precious parting season with the 
 family and servants, and a number of Friends, went about two 
 miles out of town. 
 
 " Seventh Month 1st. — Had a painful time at Wymondham 
 meeting, being distressed with a spirit of infidelity. 
 
 '* 2nd. — To Tivetshall, and had a laborious season in pleading 
 with the stout-hearted youth ; then attended an evening meeting 
 at Diss, which was a comfortable open time, from the subject of 
 the patriarch Jacob's vision and journey, &c. ; after which, had a 
 memorable opportunity in a Friend's family : O ! may it be kept 
 in view, and improvement made. 
 
 " '3rd. — The meeting at Attleborough was held in a private 
 house, and was open and relieving. After a solid time with the 
 Friends belonging to this meeting and neighbourhood, went to 
 John Bousell's. 
 
 ' : 4th. — To Mattishall, which was a low time, and did not seem 
 much like a meeting to me : I suffered in silence. 
 
 " 5th, First-day. — To the general meeting at Downham, at 
 which place no Friend lives. Stopped at an inn, and met a large 
 committee of the Quarterly Meeting, who were appointed to attend 
 it. But few of the neighbours came to the meeting, and in the 
 
172 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAB 6CATTERG00D. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 fore part of it my mind was opened to look back at the state of the 
 children of Israel in Egypt — at Abraham's vision respecting them 
 when an horror of darkness overspread him ; also the gathering of 
 our early Friends from different societies : George Fox being by 
 himself on a hill, and proclaiming the day of the Lord, and the 
 prospect he had of the seed of the kingdom lying thick on the 
 ground and sparkling, &c: and although here was great desolation, 
 this meeting being gone to decay, I had a comfortable prospect of a 
 day approaching, when the seed would spring as out of the dry 
 ground and spread; with which prospect I stood up, and told Friends 
 I knew not what we had met for, but to see our nakedness, and 
 for our humiliation. Near the close I stood up again, and I thought 
 my testimony had some effect on a few individuals not of our 
 Society ; though here, as also in some other places, some persons 
 left in the midst of my labour, who, I fear, are not willing to endure 
 sound doctrine. Went to Fincham, where there are no Friends, 
 and had a large meeting in a barn, I hope to profit. 
 
 " 6th. — To a meeting at Swaffham, consisting of only one family 
 and some of the neighbours, and it proved a good time. Then to 
 an evening meeting at Fakenham, where there are but two mem- 
 bers : a person left the meeting while I was speaking concerning 
 righteousness, temperance and judgment to come ; but another met 
 me as I was going out of the house, and said he hoped we should 
 meet in heaven. 
 
 " 1th. — To the Monthly Meeting at Wells, where there were but 
 few Friends, and these in a weak state ; but I was glad in finding 
 tenderness, and I hope some desire to improve : after dinner had 
 a solid opportunity with a number of Friends. 
 
 " 8^ — To a meeting at Holt ; and though I went to it under 
 discouragement, it was a good time ; many neighbours came in and 
 behaved well, and some soldiers. After dinner went to Walsing- 
 ham, to an evening meeting in a public building, which was large, 
 and I hope to profit. 
 
 " \2th, First-day. — I have had a fatiguing time for weeks past, 
 and awoke this morning in a low and tried state of mind : when I 
 came down stairs found letters from my dear wife, son, and several 
 friends. Went to meeting at Bury, and though at the beginning 
 there appeared a small opening into the state of the people, and I 
 was ready to conclude that I might minister to them, it closed up, 
 and I poured out my tears until I wetted the floor. At two o'clock 
 went to the afternoon meeting, and there also bonds and afflictions 
 continued upon me, and though 1 was silent throughout, A. Tuke 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 173 
 
 appeared acceptably in the morning. 0 Lord ! remember me in 
 thy wonted love, and continue thy good hand upon me, that my 
 soul may not faint in the day of trial. 1 ' 
 
 At this place, the following letter from his friend, the late J ohn 
 Elliott, of this city, was received. 
 
 Philadelphia, Sixth Month 6th, 1795. 
 
 " Dear Friend, 
 " I cannot let this opportunity pass without giving thee a token 
 of my affectionate remembrance, having often thought of thee since 
 thou left us, and at times have felt sincere desires for thy preser- 
 vation, and that thou mayst be supported from day to day, and 
 strengthened to persevere in accomplishing the arduous task thou 
 art engaged in. If it was in my power secretly to assist in holding 
 up thy hands, I should be glad to afford my feeble endeavours in 
 that way, but am sensible of my own poverty and inability ; being 
 persuaded that it is only in proportion as we walk in the light, that 
 the true union and fellowship are to be felt. Where this is really 
 the case, I believe the outward distance whereby we are separated, 
 cannot obstruct the current of that Divine love, which, when to- 
 gether, has been known to flow from vessel to vessel ; and if we were 
 always watchful and careful to keep out every thing of a defiling 
 nature, the consolating stream would undoubtedly be more fre- 
 quently witnessed to circulate. But the world and its cumbering 
 cares have the same effect now, as the labours of the Philistines 
 formerly, viz., to stop up the wells ; which makes renewed labour 
 necessary to dig them again, in order to come at the spring of life. 
 It is indeed, as our Lord said, ' The cares of this life, the deceit- 
 fulness of riches, and the love of other things, choke the good seed 
 and cause it to become unfruitful.' I feel it to be so in myself, 
 and fear it is too much the case with many others of our Society, 
 both in this land and in my native country, where thy lot is now 
 cast ; a land that was eminently blessed about a century ago, with 
 the revival of the gospel in its primitive purity, after a long time 
 of darkness. From thence were transplanted into this countrv, 
 some of the choicest vines ; but now, both here and there, instead 
 of fruits being brought forth to the praise of the good Husbandman, 
 many wild grapes are produced, and much unfruitfulness is appa- 
 rent. Yet it appears the vineyard is not forsaken ; the labourers 
 are sent forth from time to time with a renewed invitation, and it 
 will be comfortable to hear that they are favoured to see of the 
 travail of their souls and be satisfied ; but if that should not be the 
 
174 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 case so fully as is desirable, this is certain, the faithful labourers 
 will have their wages. 
 
 " Our dear friend, Nicholas Wain, is now about to embark for 
 Europe, and thy worthy father-in-law, David Bacon, has given up 
 to accompany him, which I hope will be mutually comfortable and 
 satisfactory, both to themselves and Friends where they come. I 
 expect it will be so to thee to see them ; and I believe I may say 
 it is so much so to us, (except the loss of their company and ser- 
 vices,) that we are made willing to part with them for the great 
 work's sake. If the way should clearly open, and any of you 
 find a draft of love toward the Friends in the South of France, I 
 hope you will not come home with a burden, for want of giving up 
 thereto. I should be glad to hear of such a visit being performed, 
 which I have no doubt would be very acceptable to them." 
 
 " 14>th. — Went to Mildenhall, which proved a trying meeting 
 to me in various respects — very few members or others present. 
 It seems as though in some places the lame and the blind were 
 the guards of the house, instead of David's valiant men. Mary 
 Alexander, from Needham, rode with George Stacey ; she has 
 joined Ann Tuke as a companion in further service in these parts, 
 and the public service fell on them. I was plunged into deep exer- 
 cise. O ! what can be the cause that this has been so frequently 
 the case of late. Lord, favour with ability to offer up my will to 
 thy Divine will, that so the work thou hast allotted me to do may 
 not be marred. 
 
 " 16th. — To the week-day meeting at Bury, which was open and 
 comfortable to me : I found enlargement of heart, and at the close 
 appointed one to be held in the evening, for the town's-people. 
 Ann Tuke and companion set off to attend an evening meeting 
 they had appointed about sixteen miles distant, and we went to 
 our meeting, which was well attended, and my heart was enlarged 
 to preach the gospel ; and the people behaved with much sobriety. 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 175 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 1795, 1796. VISITS SOME OF THE MIDLAND COUNTIES, YORKSHIRE 
 
 AND LANCASHIRE PROCEEDS TO IRELAND MEETS WITH NICHOLAS 
 
 WALN FROM AMERICA RELIGIOUS ENGAGEMENTS IN AND ABOUT 
 
 DUBLIN ATTENDS THE YEARLY MEETING THERE GOES TO THE 
 
 NORTH OF IRELAND IN COMPANY WITH JOHN ABBOTT, AND THENCE 
 
 TO THE SOUTH OF IRELAND EXTRACTS FROM SOME OF HIS LETTERS 
 
 RETURNS TO DUBLIN, AND ATTENDS THE YEARLY MEETING THERE. 
 
 " Seventh Month \§th, First-day. — At Oakham. I feel re- 
 newed in my bodily powers, by travelling and fresh country air. 
 0 ! my gracious Lord and Master, suffer not the enemy to prevail 
 and bring a cloud over my mind — thou knowest how it is with me, 
 and has been of late. Sat the two meetings in silence. 
 
 " After passing through Nottingham, Mansfield, and Chester- 
 field, arrived at Sheffield on the 24th. 
 
 " 26th, First-day. — Went to meeting morning and evening, in 
 both of which I was exercised in testimony. 
 
 " 28th. — Got to Ackworth, and in the afternoon sat with the 
 committee. 
 
 " 29th. — Attended the public meeting, which was very large, and 
 laboured in it, but mostly to people of other societies. 
 
 " 30th. — Sat again with the committee, and spent the day at 
 the institution : the business being ended, many Friends left — in 
 the evening we had a pretty solid opportunity with several of the 
 family and other Friends who came in to see us. 
 
 " 31st. — This morning the poor in the neighbourhood came to 
 get the broken victuals which Friends purchased of the inn-keeper, 
 and whilst I wrote a letter, another Friend had a religious opportu- 
 nity with them in the yard. 
 
 "Eighth Mouth \st. — Took post-chaise to Tadcaster; after 
 which, to our friend Lindley Murray's, near York, where I met a 
 kind reception. 
 
 " 2nd, First-day. — To meeting, and was silent; things appear 
 low, and I had a pretty deep plunge. Went to the meeting in the 
 castle, held with the prisoners, accompanied by J. and R. Smith, 
 
176 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 &c, which was a pretty satisfactory time — was shown the tower 
 from which William Dewsbury preached to the people, and one of 
 Friends' books, among others, which were presented to the pri- 
 soners in this place upwards of one hundred years ago — they yet 
 remain for the same use. 
 
 " 3rd. — Spent the morning in writing — drank tea at Henry 
 Tuke's, and walked on the walls of the city, and crossed the water 
 in a boat, and then to his father's, and looked into the grave- 
 yard, w here I was told John Woolman and Thomas Ross were 
 buried. 
 
 " 5th. — To meeting at Leeds, which was large, and my mind 
 was exercised to stand up with these expressions ' They spend 
 their days in wealth, and in a moment they go down to the grave;' 
 and it appeared right to plead with the rich and full. After dinner 
 we rode to Christiana Hustler's, at Underclift", and attended an 
 evening meeting at this place, called Bradford, in which I was 
 much shut up and very poor. 
 
 " 7th. — Went to Monthly Meeting held near Todmorden, almost 
 twenty miles distant. I had nothing to say until near the close of 
 the last meeting, and then had to bear testimony against a conten- 
 tious spirit, in one who had been displaced as a minister : — returned 
 to Christiana Hustler's. 
 
 " 8th. — Felt weary with my journey yesterday, and in a low 
 spot this day throughout. O ! for greater purity of heart and more 
 of the spirit of prayer. 0 Lord ! suffer me not to forsake thee. 
 
 " 9th, First-day. — To the meeting at eleven o'clock — passed 
 through it in silence. After tea, Christiana Hustler came and 
 told me it was their practice to call the family together on First-day 
 afternoon or evening, with which I united ; and they were called 
 in, and I sat with the company, which was large, and after a time 
 mv mouth was opened, and favoured with so much enlargement as 
 to give some relief to my mind. 
 
 " Wth. — Went to Manchester, and on the 12th, attended meet- 
 ing there ; in which I felt an exercise to prostrate myself in suppli- 
 cation on my own account, and also on behalf of my fellow-labourers 
 in the harvest-field, both in this land and in America, and that 
 mercy and truth might be near to support those left at home, and 
 bear up under all trials which may attend them ; and also, that 
 the exercised children whom the divine Master is fitting, and hath 
 fitted, to enter the field, might be preserved. 1 ' 
 
 On the 15th he arrived at Liverpool, where he remained about 
 two weeks, attending the meetings as they came in course, although 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEItGOOD. 
 
 177 
 
 much indisposed. On the 2.9th, he embarked in a vessel bound for 
 Dublin, where he arrived on the 31st, and was kindly received by 
 Thomas Bewley and family. 
 
 Ninth Month 1st. — He says, " To the week-day meeting held in 
 the Meath Street house ; in which I ventured on my bended knees 
 to pour out supplication for support under the future baptisms to 
 be met with in this land ; and it appeared to be a tendering season 
 over the meeting. 1- ' In a letter dated this day, he says, " My own 
 conflicting tossed condition came feelingly into view ; I remem- 
 bered what I had passed through for months, when a language 
 arose after this manner, ' O Lord ! help me to bear up under what- 
 ever thou mayst be pleased to permit to come upon me on this 
 island and there was immediately an answer as on this wise, 
 ' Have I ever failed thee in the greatest strait ? ' in which my soul 
 was willing to lay hold of a little encouragement. I remembered 
 Jonah and his prayer, and opened the good book and read it at 
 large, as therein left, no doubt for the strength and encouragement 
 of all such poor messengers, from that time to this. For when my 
 soul fainted witbin me, I remembered the Lord — and my soul 
 desires to sacrifice unto Him in Ireland, and to perform all my 
 vows. 
 
 " 9th. — To Baltiboys meeting, which was but small ; after 
 which went to Ballitore, to the widow Shackletoifs ; had a very 
 wearisome night, having rode the greatest part of the way on 
 borseback. 
 
 " 10th. — Very weary and sore ; went to meeting and sat in 
 silence; dined at A. Shackletohs at the school, after which visited 
 an ancient Friend. 
 
 " Wth. — To Carlow Monthly Meeting, and in it I had a close 
 testimony, which was relieving to my mind ; and in the meeting 
 for business, felt fresh courage to appoint a public meeting, which 
 was filled ; and it was supposed that three hundred persons were 
 unable to get into the house. It was a satisfactory time to me. 
 Several officers of the army, soldiers, and some of the principal in- 
 habitants of the town were there. They behaved well in the house, 
 but outside there was some disturbance, in consequence, it was 
 thought, of a desire to get in. 
 
 " 12th. — Rode to Castledermot to a meeting for the town, but 
 although Friends took much pains to go round and invite the 
 people, but few came ; however, it was a good time to me : I re- 
 membered how the Lord led his people out of Egypt, gave a law 
 
 N 
 
178 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 unto Jacob, and statutes to Israel, and brought them into the 
 land of promise ; that all the days of Joshua, and the elders that 
 outlived Joshua, they kept measurably unto it ; and, after this, 
 when they forsook their King and Shepherd, they were sold into 
 the hands of their enemies, and delivered again when they cried 
 unto him in distress. I had to mention what a low state of things 
 existed in the days of Saul, when he, with his little band of men, 
 stood trembling under the oak ; how the Lord chose David, and 
 caused the state of that people to flourish under him, and more so 
 under peaceable Solomon, when that dispensation came to its sum- 
 mit; how the Lord raised up valiants in this land, and his gather- 
 ing, sustaining arm was near to support, so long as they leaned 
 upon it. And I did not question but that precious seasons of mercy 
 and love had been experienced, even in that old house, which had 
 not been opened but once for years, no meeting being now held in 
 it : yea, I thought even the steps before me, that led into the 
 gallery, had been occupied by those who had broken hearts and 
 contrite spirits. But now, alas ! how the crown is fallen from off 
 the head. Nevertheless, there was a glance into the opening of 
 better days. I remembered the day that William Edmundson 
 spoke of, when land was to be had there at a low rate, and then 
 there was a danger of Friends becoming rich and forgetting them- 
 selves, which it is to be feared too many did in that day. But, 0 ! 
 precious was it, as I sat, a little to behold the opening of a day, 
 when oppression will be removed, and patrons of the poor will be 
 raised up. In that day the poor, even the poor amongst men, 
 shall increase their joy in the Lord. We dined at an inn, and 
 after it I returned to Ballitore, in company with Thomas Bewley 
 and A. Shackleton. On opening William Edmundsons journal, 
 I found that Friends in the beginning had sweet, heavenly, refresh- 
 ing times at Castledermot. 
 
 " \oth. — To the meeting at Ballitore, which was low in the be- 
 ginning, and too much of a restless state prevailed in old and 
 young : however, I was enabled to stand up, though in weakness, 
 and after some close labour with states which I apprehended were 
 present, I felt more openness toward the close, particularly to the 
 school boys, and at the conclusion of the meeting, appointed one 
 for the inhabitants of the town ; and, to my admiration, the house 
 was pretty full, and a number out of doors ; and I trust the gospel 
 of life and salvation was freely preached and owned by some, and 
 my mind was much relieved. 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 179 
 
 " ]4th.— Returned to Dublin. 
 
 " 1 5th. — Tried this morning with a prospect that probably I must 
 offer myself to go from family to family in this place, which has 
 frequently of late darted into my mind. 0 ! for wisdom and an 
 understanding heart, to go in and out before the people ; has been 
 the prevailing language since I awoke : may I be favoured with a 
 clear prospect of duty, let it be whatever the Master may appoint. 
 Went to the Monthly Meeting held in Meath Street. 
 
 " 16th. — To the adjournment of the Monthly Meeting, which 
 was small ; about thirty-three Friends were present. Soon after 
 we sat down, I found some openness towards this little band, 
 which appeared, like that of Gideon, reduced less and less : I was 
 led in an encouraging line, and in the conclusion told them that I 
 could not see my way out of Dublin, and was willing to unfold my 
 state and some little prospect that had opened to stay a while, and 
 to visit either some or all of them in their families, or such other re- 
 ligious service as might turn up. It was a tendering season ; my 
 certificates were minuted, and they left me at liberty to proceed as 
 way might open amongst them: before the meeting closed, I felt most 
 easy to appoint a meeting for the youth, to be held this day week. 
 
 '* \Sth. — The meeting to-day was an exercising time, and no 
 opening to minister until near the close, when I spread my thoughts 
 before Friends, after which I felt a little relief. Took tea at 
 Samuel Stevens 1 , and as I went into the door of the parlour, I cast 
 my eye on a person who sat some distance from it, but owing 
 to the room being dark I could not obtain a full view of his features, 
 but was struck with his resemblance to my father-in-law, David 
 Bacon ;* and, as I approached nearer, he arose and met me, when 
 I found to my surprise it was indeed he. 
 
 " 20th, First-day. — At meeting to-day, my mind was unexpect- 
 edly exercised to stand up with these expressions : ' I cannot, I 
 dare not, disbelieve the being of a powerful, just, and merciful 
 God. 1 It was a season of relief and much sweetness ; more than I 
 had before experienced in this land. The days of my youth came 
 into remembrance, and the Lord's gracious dealings with me 
 from my childhood; and, near the close, this precious language 
 came sweetly into view, 'It is finished: 1 when I was ready to 
 query, what? And although it is a very pleasant thing, even for 
 
 • He had recently arrived, in company with Nicholas Wain, a valued and beloved 
 minister of Philadelphia, who was on a religious visit in that country. 
 
 N 2 
 
180 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 a moment, thus to have the burden removed off the shoulders, 
 and a day of sabbath and ease experienced, yet I dared not to covet 
 that it might last, but rather that the Lord my God might be 
 pleased still, as hitherto, to preserve in and through all the trials 
 he may permit, who knows what is best for me. 0 ! how my mind 
 has been beset at times since the Yearly Meeting at London ; and 
 these words, ' It is finished,' was the language of the Divine 
 Master after a time of agony : wait, then, 0 my soul ! on thy God. 
 To afternoon meeting and sat silently content ; spent the evening 
 at home. What need to watch and keep the garment undefiled in 
 conversation. 
 
 " 2\st. — To an appointed meeting for heads of families, which 
 was an open relieving time to me, and I trust satisfactory to 
 Friends. 
 
 " 27th, First-day. — To meeting at Moate, which was large, and 
 most of the labour fell on me, from the words, ' By the rivers of 
 Babylon, there we sat down ; yea, we wept when we remembered 
 Zion. We hung our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof.' 
 
 " 28th. — To the Quarterly Meeting at ten; the men met by them- 
 selves, and it was a remarkable time to me. I had to stand up 
 with this language, ' When the sons of God presented themselves 
 before him, Satan came also amongst them,' &c. ; and though such 
 was my exercise in the meeting, I had secretly to acknowledge 
 that the Lord was good, and a hope revived that I should not be 
 forsaken in troubles and trials yet to come. Went to the adjourn- 
 ment at four o'clock ; sat it through in silence. Nicholas Wain 
 went with David Bacon into the women's meeting, and had a 
 large and good time, and when he returned, spirited Friends on to 
 business. 
 
 " 29th. — To what is called the parting meeting, which was large; 
 and dear Nicholas Wain was favoured with a thorough, awful, and 
 awakening time, in pleading with the free-thinkers in our Societv. 
 
 " Tenth Month 2nd. — I am shut up in spirit at J. Clibborhs, 
 near Moate, and may say the pursuer seems at times near upon 
 my heels, and surely nothing short of the renewed extension of 
 Divine mercy and love will keep and preserve — I can do nothing : 
 wait then, still wait, in patient resignation, 0 my soul ! and heed 
 not what man shall say or think ; the sufficiency of a gospel 
 minister is of God. 
 
 " 4th, First-day. — To Moate meeting, and was enlarged, espe- 
 cially towards the youth, and had to point out the dangerous situa- 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 181 
 
 tion some were in, and to encourage others ; and if I have been 
 favoured to en<ra<re some one to leave the tree of knowledge, of 
 pleasure, or carnal gratification, surely my being shut up, for 
 several days past, as in a prison-house, ought not to be discourag- 
 ingly looked at; and, if only for my own mortification and in- 
 struction, with reverence may I say, so be it. Near the close I 
 mentioned to Friends a prospect of seeing their neighbours in the 
 evening, at five o'clock : when we went into the house it was 
 crowded, and many could not get in ; and, thanks be rendered to 
 Him who is ever worthy, he favoured me with strength to preach 
 the everlasting gospel ; the people behaved well, and I left the 
 house in peace. 
 
 " 5th. — A struggling, wearisome night ; and way seems open- 
 ing, this morning, to go into some families. Visited six, of which 
 some were pretty open, and I had both encouragement, exhorta- 
 tion, and reproof to hold forth ; but, in the others, was shut up in 
 silent, painful conflict. 
 
 " 6th. — After breakfast took a lonely walk in the garden, when 
 the very same prospects which have often come upon me were re- 
 newed : ' He shall take of mine and show it unto you, and he shall 
 show you things to come.' Thy wisdom, O Lord ! is unsearchable, 
 and thy ways past finding out : take not thy love and forbearance 
 from me, and it will be enough : though sorrow may yet be my 
 portion, forsake not thy poor tossed servant. Called to see most, 
 or all the rest of the families that live in town, and in some of them 
 had something to offer. 
 
 " 1th. — To the Monthly Meeting; in the fore part of which I 
 was favoured with an open, large time, of much encouragement ; 
 and in that for business had likewise to speak encouragingly, and 
 I thought the little handful present were favoured with that which 
 sweetens, and some with tenderness and brokenness of heart. 
 
 " 8th. — Saw my way this morning to go toward Dublin, and set 
 off, and got twenty-two miles before night, and bore this day's 
 ride pretty well ; sweet peace and comfort was my companion, so 
 that I can now, this evening, feelingly adopt this language, ' The 
 Lord is good to Israel, and fully rewards his servants:' my heart 
 is thankful for such a renewed sense. On sitting down quietly by 
 the fire-side, my mind was turned to look at the various baptisms 
 and conflicts I have had to pass through. I remembered the tried 
 condition I was plunged into but a few weeks ago, on alighting 
 from my horse and sitting down in this room ; now a sweetness 
 accompanied, and, with resignation, spread itself over my mind. 
 
182 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 Often has EzekieFs case come up into remembrance in this land, 
 when He who hath an undoubted right to enjoin what he pleases, 
 was pleased to say, (and who dare say to Him, what doest thou ?) 
 ' Son of man, behold I take away the desire of thine eyes with a 
 stroke ;' and even under this sore dispensation ' he was not to 
 mourn, nor let his tears run down,' &c. And the query has 
 arisen, if my heavenly Master should be pleased to do so by me, 
 could I support under the dispensation, and submit with cheerful- 
 ness ? Surely I may be indulged to offer a sigh, even at the 
 thought. The Lord knows best what is best for me, and my soul 
 is led with earnestness to covet the seal of his love and approba- 
 tion, come what may come, to the end of my probation here. O ! 
 what a favour to have this seal in the forehead. And what is 
 this ? has been an humbling inquiry. Answer — ' The Lord 
 knoweth them that are his. 1 He knows how to keep his flock, and 
 lead and feed them like a shepherd. O ! then, my soul, lean upon 
 him, drink down heavenly wisdom and instruction, and crave as- 
 sistance to do so in and through every dispensation yet allotted, 
 that thy end may be peace. Thus I seem carried along, and I 
 hope, feel mercy and sustaining help near to animate, yet know 
 not what proving may come, or what step or baptism into usual 
 blindness, weakness, and want, may be dispensed ; though at pre- 
 sent, I see so far as to invite Friends of this place to come together, 
 and sit with me to-morrow. 
 
 " 9th. — To meeting at Edenderry ; which was an open, good 
 time, and my heart was enlarged to my own, and I believe, to my 
 friends' satisfaction. 
 
 " llth, First-day. — Ventured out to meeting (in Dublin,) and 
 although I sat pretty long in silent poverty, at length I was 
 favoured with a baptizing opportunity. A Friend informed me, 
 that accounts have been received, that the yellow fever has broken 
 out in New York. Ah, what will the trying thoughts which 
 have impressed my mind respecting home, of latter months, amount 
 to ! Mercy and truth are with the Lord, and forgiveness, that he 
 may be feared. 
 
 " \3th. — An uneasy, painful night ; lay much awake, and was 
 tried with many thoughts, and yet when spreading my trials before 
 my great Helper, received this answer, ' Have I ever failed thee, 
 or what hast thou lacked ? 1 to which my soul was favoured with 
 a degree of brokenness to answer, ' Nothing Lord.' Went to 
 meeting, where my heart was uncommonly enlarged to speak to a 
 state under trial and temptations, and afterwards sat the meeting 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 183 
 
 of business through, which was largely attended. Here my heart 
 was again filled with matter to deliver respecting discipline, en- 
 couraging Friends likewise to stand shod and prepared for a day 
 of sifting and trial, believing even this people will be sifted. At- 
 tended the adjournment at six o'clock, and sat it nearly through ; 
 it was a good time, the meeting well attended, and I hope the 
 hearts of some of the young men were stirred up to move forward 
 in the cause of truth. 
 
 " 15th. — Attended a public meeting, and was disappointed in 
 seeing so few gathered, and more so, in sitting so long waiting for 
 others — the house was not half filled ; however, it was a quiet, 
 and I hope, solid meeting, wherein I got relief among those met. 
 
 " 16th. — To an appointed meeting at Sycamore Alley, which 
 was larger than the one yesterday, but the house not full by many : 
 it proved a solid, good meeting, in which my heart was enlarged. 
 
 " 20th. — Went to meeting, which was a season of great en- 
 largement of heart, and through Divine favour, I trust, a baptizing 
 time ; left the meeting-house in much peace ; after which, a 
 number of Friends came to our lodgings, and here again I had to 
 speak to the states of some present. Let the praise and honour 
 be rendered to the Lord, the mighty Helper of his poor exercised 
 servants engaged in his work, — and may my soul be humbled. 
 
 " 24?th, Seventh-day. — To the National Meeting of ministers 
 and elders, which was a close, searching time : here I met with 
 my father D. Bacon, and N. Wain. 
 
 " 25th, First-day. — Attended Meath Street meeting, which 
 was large and crowded, many not of our Society being there. I 
 was drawn forth pretty largely to preach Christ Jesus, the word 
 nigh in the mouth and heart, as the only sure teacher and baptizer 
 in this glorious gospel day. Attended Sycamore Alley meeting 
 in the afternoon, which was likewise large, and in the fore part I 
 had a short testimony, but the chief labour fell upon Nicholas 
 Wain, and trust it was a good satisfactory meeting. 
 
 " 26th. — Tot he National Meeting for business at ten o'clock, 
 which adjourned till four. Here Nicholas Wain was concerned to 
 speak respecting the fondness to collect manuscripts, and copying 
 and reading such pieces, to the neglect of reading the Holy 
 Scriptures and our ancient Friends 1 writings. 
 
 " 27th. — To the public meeting at Meath Street House, where I 
 had but little labour. Nicholas Wain appeared, also Ann Robinson. 
 At four in the afternoon met a committee appointed to consider 
 the state of Society, and also at six o'clock in the evening. 
 
184 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 " 28th. — Went and sat with the committee of the National 
 Meeting ; and when the state of Society came closely under con- 
 sideration, I felt uneasy with knowing it, and told Friends that 
 I had endeavoured in my travels not to be anxious to hear things 
 by the outward ear, but to attend to the openings of Truth : so I 
 left the meeting, and Nicholas Wain followed me out. Attended 
 the burial of Hannah Simmons at ten o'clock. There was a 
 considerable collection of people, and I had an open time in 
 communication. To the adjournment of the National Meeting at 
 four o'clock, which was solid and satisfactory, and concluded 
 comfortably. 
 
 " 29th. — To the parting meeting, which was large and solid ; 
 most of the labour fell on me, and it was a good time : after which, 
 the meeting of ministers and elders met for the last time, and it 
 proved a solid season. 
 
 " 30^. — To meeting in Sycamore Alley, where most of the 
 public labour fell on me. In the evening took leave of my father 
 David Bacon, and Nicholas Wain, who intend setting off for 
 Cork to-morrow. 
 
 '■'■Eleventh Month 1st, First-day. — To meeting; where I was 
 looking for contentment in silence ; but soon after I sat down, I 
 felt such a flow of love, that I longed for the meeting to be gathered, 
 that I might ease my mind ; and once more was favoured with a 
 full opportunity in a large meeting. In the afternoon attended at 
 Sycamore Alley, which I sat through in sweet refreshing silence. 
 
 " lMh. — On examination, though with thankfulness I can ac- 
 knowledge, that the good hand has been near to help this day, 
 yet am conscious that more care and circumspection in speech, less 
 quickness and fewer off-hand remarks, would tend to more peace. 
 When I am off my guard, and slip but a little in conversation, it 
 brings the rod. 
 
 " lith. — I am tried with staying so long in this place ; and 
 yet see little to do, and no way opens with clearness to move, if 
 my leg would admit, which has been sore so as to lame me. Spent 
 most of this day retired in my chamber, which was sweet and 
 comfortable. 
 
 " 15th, First-day. — Feel much recruited in my bodily powers 
 this morning, and could say I felt no pain : went to meeting, and 
 my heart was much enlarged, and my tongue loosened, to the 
 comfort of my own mind, and trust to the awakening and en- 
 couragement of others. Rode to Sycamore Alley meeting, which 
 was pretty largely attended by Friends and others, and it proved 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEP.GOOD. 
 
 185 
 
 an open time from these expressions, ' I am a debtor both to the 
 Jew and to the Greek, to the learned and unlearned, 1 &c. 
 
 " 22nd. — Attended the meeting in Meath Street, which was 
 again an open enlarged time with me, but felt poor after it, and 
 had thoughts of omitting the afternoon meeting, as my leg, by 
 using it, appeared much worse. However, I went in a carriage, 
 and a considerable number of strangers being there, was much 
 enlarged towards them ; one of them came in the evening and 
 acknowledged that I had been made instrumental this day, in 
 opening his eyes and removing his doubts; and that he could 
 scarcely forbear standing up in the meeting to acknowledge it. 
 
 " 23rd. — Poor and stripped in mind and weak in body, but I 
 feel rejoiced that I am made to see myself such a poor creature. 
 O ! that the Lord, my heavenly Master, may be pleased to sup- 
 port through all that is yet to be met with, both in heights and 
 in depths, and ever give me to see that the grace and good spirit 
 thus conferred on me, with the added gift of utterance to speak 
 forth his praise, is not mine but his. 0 ! how great has been thy 
 mercy and kindness to me in this city, thou Helper of thy people. 
 
 " 2ith. — Attended meeting, which was a sweet silent one, for 
 the most part, wherein my own family connexions and friends at 
 home, and others came up into remembrance, when I ventured to 
 pour out my soul in supplication for my own and their preserva- 
 tion, with the visited children of our heavenly Father in this place. 
 
 " 26th. — Whilst sitting alone in mv chamber this evening-, I 
 poured out a few tears on looking towards my dear wife, children 
 and mother, with a secret prayer for my daughter M., who is 
 rising up into the slippery path of youth ; and what can I say 
 more at such a distance, than ' Thy will, O Father ! be done,' 
 whose power and Divine presence is everywhere. Thou hast indeed 
 wrought wonders forme; 0! that my dear children may all be 
 remembered in mercy by thee. Spent most of this day in my 
 chamber, and on the whole it was satisfactory, and with some 
 comfort and consolation administered, for which I feel thankful. 
 
 " 27th. — Was discouraged from going to meeting, in conse- 
 quence of my leg being painful ; but as J. S. and wife called for 
 me, I ventured to go, and it was in the fore part a sweet silent 
 one to me, wherein secret breathings were raised in my heart on 
 account of those left behind, and by giving way to silent mental 
 prayer for a season, I was strengthened to bend in public prostra- 
 tion at the footstool of Divine mercy, and after it, felt a language 
 of encouragement to express in the hearing of my friends. 
 
186 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1795. 
 
 " 29th, First-day. — Attended both meetings, and sat them 
 through in silence, except near the close of the morning meeting, 
 endeavoured in a few words, to stir up Friends to a more punctual 
 attendance. This passage was uppermost part of this day in 
 meeting; ' I saw the tents of Cushan in affliction.' Joseph Williams 
 observed in the morning meeting, that his state, when about 
 sixteen years of age, so revived in his remembrance, that he was 
 fearful of omitting mentioning it in the hearing of that gathering, 
 nearly I think, as follows : ' A Friend from America was then on 
 a visit to this nation, who was detained in the city of Dublin for 
 some months, and laboured from meeting to meeting. In one of 
 the meetings his testimony so reached his heart, that it brought 
 him under much exercise and conflict of mind, which he endea- 
 voured to strus^le against and shut out. Soon after this he ob- 
 tained leave of his father to go into the country, and there getting 
 into company with his acquaintances, he lost much of the savour 
 of this visitation, and on his return back to the city, was in hopes 
 the Friend was gone. When he went to the meeting again, he 
 took a seat as near the door as he could, that he might slip out ; 
 but the stranger being there, and being, as was thought, the last 
 meeting he would attend, Joseph remained, and his state was 
 again spoken to, and he was told of his tr} r ing to flee from his 
 best Friend, the Lord, who was convincing him of the evil of his 
 wavs. This opportunity was a blessing to him, and he said, 
 probably if he had withstood it, he might not have been favoured 
 again. He then exhorted some present, who were in the like 
 condition, not to put away the Lord's mercy and kindness to their 
 souls. 1 Dear John Abbott, I thought, had also a sweet testimony 
 to bear. Returned to my chamber alone, and after a time com- 
 pany came, but my mind was much shut up under exercise — 
 favoured to drop the silent tear : — Jesus wept over Lazarus. 
 
 " Twelfth Month 3rd. — Set off about day break, accompanied 
 by Samuel Bewley and Robert Favle, for our guides, with divers 
 others who went with us a few miles, and lodged at Castle 
 Bellingham. 
 
 " Mh. — As John Abbott and I rode along in the morning 0 f 
 this day in the chaise, we saw a company of people following a 
 corpse into a cabin ; John said he believed he must stop there, 
 and I did not feel easy to let him go alone ; so we left the carriage 
 in care of R. Fayle, and went into the house. The coffin was 
 laid in the middle of the floor, and the house much filled up with 
 men and women talking Irish. John requested them to be still a 
 
1795.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 187 
 
 few minutes, which they did, and then hegan to talk again : he 
 again desired them to be still, but one of the men said, we suppose 
 you want to preach — we will not hear you, go out of the house — 
 and they began to push us out. They pushed me quite out of 
 the door, and in a little time John came out also, there being a 
 number out of doors. I told them, perhaps they might have heard 
 something to their profit ; but was answered, ' We do not want to 
 hear you. 1 John told them it was a solemn occasion, and they 
 ought to consider that in a little time they would have to die also, 
 when the soul must be either happy or miserable, to all eternity. 
 * Who sent you to preach I ' said one. I answered, 'Jesus Christ. 1 I 
 was then asked, whose successors we were? and I think I answered, 
 ' Of Christ and his apostles, and righteous men of all generations. 1 
 ' You are but laymen,' said one of them, ' and I can pick out of 
 this company those that are better preachers than you.' I turned 
 to some of the young men and lads present, and said I believed 
 the time was coming and would come, when the children would 
 be favoured to see better things than some of the old men ; for 
 which I was accused as a liar, by an old man. I observed to them, 
 that our minds were turned in love to them ; that seeing they would 
 not hear us, we would leave them ; which we did with sorrowful 
 hearts, being grieved with such blindness and prejudice. We got 
 to our friend James Christy's after night, where we met with 
 Anna Taverner and Susan Bewley. 
 
 " 5th. — Rode to Lurgan with Anna Taverner to the select Quar- 
 terly Meeting at one o'clock ; it was a close time. 
 
 " 7th. — To the meeting for business : the women met apart, and 
 1 got some relief amongst them in both meetings. A committee 
 was appointed to consider the state of the Society, and the meeting 
 adjourned until four o'clock, when our certificates were read. 
 In the evening I felt a sweet calm over my mind. 
 
 " 8th. — Met the committee, and had an exercising time in con- 
 sidering the state of the Society. It was proposed to nominate a few 
 Friends to visit the Monthly and Preparative Meetings, &c, and 
 I felt a necessity to offer myself to join them, after which, John 
 Abbott expressed a similar prospect ; it was laid before the 
 Quarterly Meeting and united with. 
 
 "9#A. — Met the School committee at nine o'clock, and went to 
 the parting meeting at eleven, in which I was silent. Sat with 
 the committee of men and women Friends, in order to see our 
 way to move, wherein I was concerned to pray for us all." 
 
 " On the 12th. — In company with the committee, attended 
 
188 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SC ATTERGOOD. 
 
 [17.96. 
 
 the preparative meeting at Lisburn ; on the ] 5th to Mile-cross and 
 Belfast. 18th, to Hillsborough preparative meeting. 19th, to 
 Ballinderry preparative meeting-. 20tb, First-day to Lisburn, and 
 the next day to the Monthly Meeting. On the 23rd, went to 
 Rathfriland, and the next day attended that meeting, where there 
 were but three men and one lad, and about as many women ; 
 although things looked discouraging, on the whole it was a good, 
 and, in some degree, a tendering time ; and on the 26th, went to 
 their preparative meeting at Lurgan. 28th, to Moyallen, and in 
 the evening had a conference, in which our way appeared closed up. 
 
 " 29th. — The committee sat down again, and had an humbling, 
 searching season ; and we were not able to see any way to move, 
 except to appoint the time for the Monthly Meeting to be held, as 
 it was adjourned on our account. Before Friends separated to 
 their several homes, we came together again ; and this was a con- 
 triting season, for which my soul rejoiced, as we were likely to 
 part in love. In the evening received letters from home, which 
 conveyed sorrowful tidings of the removal, by the yellow fever, 
 of several relatives, neighbours, and friends ; and that my own 
 family had been visited with the sickness, yet so far, were merci- 
 fully preserved in the land of the living ; — my spirit was some- 
 what eased, and the contents of my dear S/s letter were very 
 sweet, conveying an idea of the calmness and resignation in which 
 her mind was preserved under the trials allotted. The Lord be 
 magnified and bowed before, whether in suffering or rejoicing, 
 sickness or health, life or death ; and 0 ! that my tried soul may 
 be favoured to say, ' Thy will, 0 Lord, and not mine be done. 1 " 
 
 On the 4th of the First Month, 1796, after conferring together 
 the committee concluded to move on. They attended the Monthly 
 Meeting at Cootehill on the 7th, composed of seven men and four 
 women ; where the queries were read and answered. On the 8th, 
 they collected the few Friends together at Castleshane, consisting 
 of three women and three children. On First-day, 10th, were at 
 Grange meeting ; and the next day at the preparative meeting. 
 On the 12th, to Cabarah, where a few families of Friends live in 
 cabins ; in getting there they had to leave the carriage in the road, 
 " and the women were conveyed behind the men on horseback, 
 some distance through the slush, to the cabin in which the meet- 
 ing was held ; which was a dull, poor time," wherein he had 
 nothing to communicate. 
 
 " I'Sth.— To the week-day meeting at Grange ; in which my 
 mind was exercised to stand up with these expressions : ' Hell 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 189 
 
 and destruction are open before the eyes of the Lord : how much 
 more the hearts of the children of men :' and that it was not my 
 faith, neither had I so learned Christ, as to believe that he does 
 all without us ; but that when we have missed our way through 
 disobedience, we must know a fresh dispensation of repentance 
 and amendment of life, through the power of the Holy Spirit in 
 the heart. After dinner went over with John Abbott to T. Gr.'s, 
 where we dropped into silence, and these expressions arose for 
 delivery ; 'Without faithfulness we cannot find an interest in 
 Christ ; and those who have vowed a vow unto the Lord, should 
 pay it, for the Lord has no pleasure in fools, 1 &c. Pain and dis- 
 tress have been my condition, wherein I might say measurably, 
 that my God has humbled me among this people. 
 
 " 1M. — To Rich Hill Monthly Meeting. The queries were 
 read and answered whilst the women stayed, and I trust some solid 
 and instructive remarks were made for their improvement. The 
 meeting held until dark, and then adjourned to the close of one 
 appointed to be held to-morrow. After dinner sat with the over- 
 seers, both men and women, and imparted such counsel as occurred, 
 and after that, with the two men elders. 
 
 " 1 5th. — Went to an appointed meeting, which was large and 
 mixed ; and I got through it to my humbling admiration. There 
 was a raw, inexperienced company assembled, some gay people, 
 and one Highland officer. After which the Monthly Meeting con- 
 cluded its business, first appointing a few Friends to go from 
 family to family, and inspect into their condition, particularly 
 with regard to the testimony against war and fighting ; and to 
 endeavour to persuade Friends to put away all instruments of 
 destruction and death out of their houses, in this time of com- 
 motion amongst their neighbours ; it appears that several who 
 had joined in those things, and were brought under dealing, had 
 condemned it. 
 
 " 16th. — To the Monthly Meeting at Moyallen, which was a 
 time of enlargement to me, wherein I was favoured to relieve my 
 mind, both in the meeting for worship and business, and things 
 appeared hopeful. 
 
 " 17th. — A tossing night ; and when I awoke, felt very poor 
 and helpless ; however, I was favoured to put up a secret petition 
 for protection and help before I arose. Dear John Abbott came 
 into my room to inquire which way I was going, he inclining to go 
 to Lurgan, and after breakfast I felt easy to go with him. We 
 got to our friend John Davis" 1 about half an hour before meeting 
 
190 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 time. In this meeting I was favoured with much enlargement, to 
 my comfort and relief ; some brokenness appeared. 0 ! how 
 good it is to wait in patience, and depend upon that Divine foun- 
 tain that fails not. 
 
 " 19th. — To meeting at Antrim, which was small, and the house 
 was damp, having an earthen floor : about four men, some children, 
 and seven women, besides the committee, constituted the meeting, 
 and it was a low time. 
 
 " 20th. — Set off pretty early, and rode nine miles to Grange 
 meeting ; five men and four women made up the meeting when it 
 separated for the transaction of business ; the queries were read, 
 and it was a very low time. The gallery where we sat appeared 
 tumbling down, and a damp earthen floor. When the query 
 respecting bearing arms and paying fines for war, &c, was read, 
 an old woman openly acknowledged, after her husband said he had 
 not paid such a fine, that she did ; and made light of it, concluding 
 it would not stand in her way. 
 
 " 21st. — Rode to Ballynacree, and on the 22nd held the pre- 
 parative meeting. This meeting-house joins a dwelling, and on 
 sitting down, it seemed like sitting in a cellar : two men, two 
 women and three children composed it, besides six of the committee. 
 My mind was exercised with the low state of things ; but was 
 favoured soon to gain a state of quietude, when the remembrance 
 of these expressions was pleasant ; ' The Lord liveth, that bringeth 
 the seed of Abraham, or house of Israel, out of the north country, 
 and every country where they have been scattered and again, 
 said the Prophet, ' The Lord will comfort Zion ; he will comfort 
 all her waste places," 1 &c. ; and my soul craved that this day might 
 hasten. After dinner rode to Coleraine, to W. Gregg's ; drank tea, 
 and then went to the meeting-house, and sat with him and his 
 brother Dominick and wife, who are all the members in this town ; 
 the queries were read and answered, and my mind was not so 
 oppressed as in some other places. 
 
 " 23rd. — The Monthly Meeting was held, consisting of seven 
 men and three women ; and in the evening the committee sat down 
 together to prepare a report. 
 
 " 2tth, First-day. — To meeting; some few strangers came in — 
 I pitied them, but had nothing for them : my condition as to 
 ministry in this north part of Ireland, seems as a book sealed ; and 
 1 have been, and am favoured with contentment. 
 
 " 21th. — To Lurgan week-day meeting, and on the 28th to 
 Moyallen ; after which went to my kind friend Mary Phelps'.'" 
 
1796.] 
 
 J1EM0JRS OP THOMAS SCATTEKGOOD. 
 
 191 
 
 In a letter dated the 29th, from Mary Phelps', he says : 
 
 " I am now waiting for John Ahbott to join me in going to- 
 wards the south ; we have been together ever since we left Dublin, 
 in the beginning of the Twelfth Month, and have gone through 
 the north part of the island. I have mourned under a sense of the 
 darkness that prevails ; and when I have looked toward the people 
 at large, feeling, I trust, a willingness to preach the gospel among 
 them, I have remembered part of E. Webb's prospect concerning 
 some, when she had been querying whether the visitation of life 
 and salvation was toward them ; the answer seems to be, that ' the 
 buckets are frozen. 1 
 
 " There are parties rising up against each other in these parts, 
 and we hear of their going to houses in the night, and murdering 
 the dwellers in them ; breaking their windows, and undermining 
 their houses, and ordering the inhabitants to leave the neighbour- 
 hood, and sometimes in open battle against one another ; and the 
 magistrates seem at a loss to know what to do ; but we have 
 travelled without molestation, which is a favour. I am not much, 
 thou knowest, concerned about informing of outward commotions, 
 and yet I thought so much occurred, and things look very serious 
 in this land — bringing to my mind Archbishop Usher's prophecy, 
 which if suffered to be fulfilled, would be dreadful indeed. I have 
 been favoured with some precious open meetings in some parts, as 
 Dublin, &c, but truly here in the north, am like a sealed book ; 
 many silent ones ; but through all, have had to rejoice in that the 
 great Master has a precious seed preserved, and which I trust will 
 be watered and made fruitful in due time." 
 
 Second Month 2nd. — They arrived in Dublin, where they 
 remained until the 7th, when in company with his friend John 
 Abbott, he set off with a view of taking the meetings of the southern 
 part of Ireland. They attended the meeting at Wicklow on the 
 9th, and in the evening got to one at Ballycane, on the 11th at 
 Ballintore, on the 12th to Enniscorthy, and the 13th to Forest 
 meeting: " in the fore part of which," he says, " the testimony 
 was close to libertines, yet was favoured with a portion of oil to the 
 burden-bearers, especially the dear youth ; amongst whom, since 
 leaving Dublin, my heart has been much enlarged, and in some 
 meetings considerable contrition appeared. After this meeting, in 
 which I laboured under the heavy weight of an increasing cold, I 
 rode home with Jacob Gough's wife and daughter, in a closed car- 
 riage, and after dinner had a precious parting season of tender 
 
192 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 love, and I thought, dear John Abbott had something precious to 
 say. He has been mostly silent since we left Dublin. Rode to 
 Ross, and put up with our friend John Cullimore, who has been 
 our kind companion and guide from Dublin. 
 
 " Hth, First-day. — Attended both morning and afternoon meet- 
 ing, in a weak state of body, but was favoured with much enlarge- 
 ment of heart in both, there appearing a visited little company, 
 especially among the youth. 
 
 " 15th, Second-day. — Rode ten miles to Waterford, and after 
 tea, in the evening, a large number of Friends came to see us, and 
 we were favoured together with the breaking of heavenly bread. 
 
 "16th, Third-day. — To meeting at Waterford, which was large, 
 and an open time, though weak in body. After it to William 
 Penrose's, who lives a little out of town, and dined with several 
 Friends ; amongst the number was a youth under convincement, 
 not of our Society, who appears remarkably grave : here I had 
 another religious opportunity. 
 
 " 18th. — To Clonmel, and put up at the school; the meeting 
 here was a close, searching time ; it being an adjournment of the 
 Monthly Meeting. I had afterwards some encouraging language 
 to express in the men's meeting, and then went into the women's. 
 "We dined at the school, and had a sitting with the scholars, and 
 then went to meet a committee, and hope we were made useful to 
 Friends. 
 
 " 19th. — I felt so unwell after dinner that I lay down, and was 
 much refreshed. Drank tea at Samuel Davis', after which, came 
 Robert Dudley and wife, and several others ; and here we had a 
 good time amongst them. Mary Dudley appeared sweetly, and 
 my companion also ; after which, we had a tendering time with the 
 scholars, who waited for us with their governors, and divers Friends 
 that came to see us. 
 
 " 20th. — Went to Robert Dudley's and dined. Sat down with 
 this family, and had an open time amongst them. At the close, 
 dear Mary poured out her supplications for the children, and that 
 the Lord would be pleased to bless our families with the same 
 blessing her's was favoured with. 
 
 " 21st, First-day. — Felt very poor this morning when I arose, 
 and went to meeting in this state ; but had not sat long before a 
 degree of light and life sprang up in my heart, and was favoured 
 to minister to a pretty large meeting. The afternoon meeting was 
 a large mixed one, and I had again an open time. In the evening 
 sat down with the children at the school, and a large number of 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 193 
 
 Friends, among whom were many youth ; when T requested some of 
 the children might read the 5th and 6th chapters of Second Kings, 
 which two of them did, and it afforded me another full opportunity 
 to discharge my mind. J. A. and M. Dudley both appeared : 
 dear S. Grubhs remembrance was revived, and I hope it was a 
 baptizing season, to be remembered by many." 
 
 Extract from a letter dated Olonmel School, Second Month 23rd, 
 1796, to George Dillwyn, then in London. 
 
 " Indeed I may say, that my mind has been more 
 
 at liberty since coming under this roof than for some time : some 
 precious and memorable seasons we have been favoured with, both 
 in this large family and with others in this town. O! how sweet 
 has been the remembrance of dear Sarah Grubb ; as unknown, and 
 yet well-known. Things are sweet and savoury, and I trust her 
 prayers have been heard, and are and will be answered I have 
 been frequently in company with dear Mary Dudley, and esteem 
 it a favour to be noticed and owned by such as she, and other fellow- 
 servants in this land. Very close were my trials in the north : 
 and when returned to Dublin, and looking towards these parts, it 
 was trying to my exercised mind, and I think I may be free to say 
 to thee, my brother, that I came forth weeping, and it was good 
 for me ; for having been agreeably disappointed, my heart has been 
 humbled, and I find it good to trust in the Lord, and not lean to 
 my own understanding. We had some precious meetings on the 
 way from Dublin, as well as some trying ones. There appears to 
 be a number of youth under visitation, and when I meet with such, 
 
 either in meetings or families, it is like marrow to my bones 
 
 As to myself, I cannot let thee into my secret with respect to 
 returning, if happily favoured to do so : if I saw the time near, 
 perhaps I might be so free with one, who several years ago gave 
 me an instructive lesson, and which I have since pretty uniformly 
 kept to, and found great profit in it ; that was : ' When thy mind 
 is exercised with a prospect of going abroad, do not deal it out by 
 piece-meal, but wait on the blessed Master until he ripen it in thy 
 mind, and then spread it before thy friends ; and if there is life in 
 it, they will be sensible of it.' Happier, I have thought, it would 
 be for many amongst us, if they knew how to keep their own, the 
 king's, and the secrets of others, discreetly."" 
 
 " 24th. — Got to Garryroan meeting in good time, which was a 
 very close exercising time. 
 
 o 
 
194 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 " 26th. — Went to Limerick meeting in a low state, and sat so 
 through the fore part of it, but through favour was enabled to 
 divide the word to various states present. 
 
 " 28th, First-day. — Attended the morning and afternoon meet- 
 ings at Limerick, and found much to do in both, and I hope to 
 some comfort and edification both of Friends and others, and to 
 the peace of my own mind. In the evening, as I was sitting at 
 our lodging with between thirty and forty Friends, I felt sweet- 
 ness cover my mind : my dear companion laboured amongst them 
 in the fore part, and I did not know but that I might be excused, 
 but ventured to bow in supplication, and afterwards was engaged 
 in testimony. 
 
 "29th. — Set off this morning, accompanied by Joseph Harvey 
 and Jeremiah Morris. Went to Charleville and dined ; near this 
 place, in which was once a meeting, stood the house of the Earl of 
 Cork ; of which John Exham, a valuable Friend, prophesied the 
 destruction ; but for the kindness the Earl showed to him, he 
 returned and told him the evil should not be in his day : all which 
 was fulfilled, and I do not find any trace of the house at this time. 
 In the last stage of our day's ride, we passed through a part of 
 what is called the Golden valley, or very rich land, where stands 
 the ruins of an old abbey. In some of the ancient buildings in 
 the town near it, called Killmallock, is very curious hewn stone 
 work, and also the remains of a palace of one of the ancient 
 kings. 
 
 " Third Month 1st. — Set off early, and got into Cork, to John 
 Morris's before dinner ; felt stripped and exercised on coming to 
 this place. 
 
 " 2nd. — Set off early this morning for Bandon meeting, in which 
 I was shut up in silence ; and afterwards rode back to Cork. 
 " 3rd. — To meeting, and shut up. 
 
 " 4th. — In a stripped condition, and much so since coming into 
 this place. 
 
 " 6th, First-day. — To Cork meeting, and sat some time in 
 silence and poverty, under an apprehension that too many were 
 looking for words, and when I stood up, was for some time with- 
 out words to begin with ; and yet, after a close, searching time, I 
 was favoured to get along in testimony, and relieve my mind pretty 
 freely. In the afternoon meeting I was again much exercised in 
 testimony, and felt relieved. After tea a considerable number 
 called in, and I was drawn forth in testimony amongst them, and 
 took my leave, the way opening for moving on in the morning. 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 195 
 
 " 8th. — To Youghall Monthly Meeting, where I sat pretty long 
 in silence, and was ready to conclude I should have finished so, 
 but near the close could not feel easy without saying some very 
 close things. 
 
 " 9th. — After breakfast felt a liberty to call and sit with several 
 Friends. Spent the evening at George Peat's, in the house E. 
 Richardson lived in, who, though not in affluent circumstances, 
 entertained most of the travellers that came on Truth's account to 
 this place, and the meeting used to be held in her parlour : several 
 Friends came in, and we had a solid opportunity. 
 
 u 10th. — To meeting, and it was a pretty comfortable time; 
 John Abbott appeared in prayer, and afterwards in testimony. 
 
 " Wth. — Set off early this morning for Waterford, and stopped 
 about eight miles on our way and refreshed. Whilst here I dis- 
 covered that the iron axle-tree of our chaise was considerably 
 cracked, and we were detained some time to get it bound up. At 
 the last stage we found a man and a fresh horse, sent by John 
 Courtney to put to our chaise, and before nine o'clock at night, we 
 got into our lodgings at this Friend's house in Waterford, where 
 we were kindly received. Rode this day about fifty English 
 miles. The accommodations were so poor on the road, that we 
 brought provisions with us. 
 
 " \ Sth, First-day. — This has been a laborious day to me, being 
 largely exercised in both morning and afternoon meetings, and two 
 sittings in the evening at our lodgings. 
 
 " \4?th — We drank tea at Mary Watson's, with several Friends, 
 and after it I had a full opportunity to speak to the states of 
 several. 
 
 " \5th. — Went to meeting, where the labour fell on me, and it 
 was a pretty open time. Stopped at William Penrose's, and hope 
 it was a profitable tendering season ; after which we went to the 
 widow Usher's, who has three daughters, and here we had a 
 memorable time indeed. Very soon after we sat down, tender- 
 ness and contrition appeared, and I admired whilst speaking, to 
 see such brokenness. Dined at Joseph Hoyland's ; after which 
 divers Friends stepped in, and I had a religious opportunity, and 
 another on our return to our lodgings. 
 
 ll \6th. — Dear Mary Dudley and several others came and 
 breakfasted with us ; after which I had the servants called in and 
 had a religious opportunity ; then went to the widow Usher's, 
 wbere I was comforted, and took an affectionate leave of her and the 
 dear children ; she confessed with tenderness to the Lord's good- 
 
 o 2 
 
106 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SC \TTERGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 ness in sending his servants to visit them. After dinner and 
 bidding several families farewell, we rode to Ross. 
 
 " \7th. — Went to meeting at Ross, in a low condition, where I 
 found a considerable collection of other societies, and amongst the 
 rest Richard Rowe, who had been a priest, but had given up his 
 living ; it proved a good time, and in the afternoon went to see 
 this goodly man, and was pleased with the visit ; he appeared to 
 receive us with gladness. 
 
 "18^. — This morning we could not be easy without seeing 
 another sober man, who, with two daughters, called upon us ; and 
 we had a tendering time ; the father and oldest child seemed 
 much broken ; the wife was unwell, but after returning home 
 he sent us word that she would see us, and we went and had 
 another tender time ; and came away from Ross pretty comfort- 
 able in mind. 
 
 " 19th. — Went to Killconnor meeting in a poor stripped state ; 
 there was a number not of our Society at it — my companion 
 appeared, and after him I had a tendering time with some, 
 though there were others who were cause of grief and pain to 
 my mind. To this meeting John Cullimore came from his own 
 home, in order to accompany us to the Quarterly Meeting at 
 Mountmellick. 
 
 " 20th, First-day. — A night of conflict, and was very poor and 
 stripped this morning before I arose, under some painful appre- 
 hension that I had not kept the girdle of truth so close to my loins 
 as I ought. What a precious thing it is to be preserved tender — 
 in this state we are favoured soon to see the outgoing of the mind, 
 and feel a check even in the thoughts. I went to meeting poor 
 and humbled, and to my admiration was strengthened to minister 
 to the poor, as well as to warn the unruly. After dinner went 
 seven miles to Athy meeting, at four o'clock. I had no expectation 
 of seeing so many of other societies, and was in a low state ; how- 
 ever, strength and courage were given me, and hope it was a time 
 of profit. 
 
 " 22nd. — Found freedom to send and collect the few Friends 
 together at Timahoe, and on the 23rd, accompanied by W. and J. 
 Pirn, attended the meeting ; there was but a small company, only 
 two men who were members, and about seven women ; several 
 neighbours came in, to whom both my companion and I had 
 something to communicate, and after they left us had a close time 
 with such as were members. One of the members, about a month 
 ago, was much wounded by a party of men coming to his house to 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 197 
 
 demand arms. We understand he made resistance, and one of 
 the balls fired at him lodged in his spectacle case in his pocket. 
 How happy for those, who in trying times can truly say, I am a 
 Christian, therefore I cannot fight. 
 
 " 2±th. — To Rathangan meeting, where a number of strangers 
 came in, and I had to reason with those present, concerning tem- 
 perance, righteousness, and judgment to come, and hope tbe word 
 was divided to the different states. Drank tea at Jane Watson's, 
 where was a number of Friends, with whom I had a religious 
 opportunity. 
 
 " 25th. — Set off for Mountmellick, where we arrived before 
 night, and put up at J. G.'s, Mary Ridgway's home. 
 
 " 27th, First-day. — A little better in health to-day, and ventured 
 out to meeting with muffling up ; and very close things occurred 
 to deliver. In the afternoon meeting was silent, but had two 
 opportunities in the evening with some youth. 
 
 " 2Sth. — To meeting for business, and the adjournment at three 
 o'clock, wherein very close things escaped my lips, and in the 
 evening was not only much spent but humbled. 
 
 u 29th. — To another adjournment at ten o'clock, wherein my 
 mind was lifted up a little, and I thought the precious testimonies 
 of truth appeared to be growing in importance in Friends 1 minds. 
 At five o'clock went to what is called the parting meeting ; in 
 which I was silent. 
 
 " 30th. — To the week-day meeting, and was silent. In the 
 afternoon the select meeting met, the fore part of which was a dull 
 time, but it ended comfortably, and a minute was made in acknow- 
 ledgment of the favour ; my heart was in some degree enlarged : 
 went through the schools, and came home in the evening under a 
 load of exercise, and in a religious opportunity bowed in suppli- 
 cation ; and there appeared a cause, not only on my own account, 
 but that of others. 
 
 "Fourth Month 3rd, First-day. — Although much unwell this 
 day, yet was favoured to relieve my mind amongst Friends in the 
 morning meeting, and appointed one for the town, to be held at 
 five o'clock in the evening : it was very large, so that the house 
 could not hold the people, and I trust it was favoured. The 
 people were solid and still, and remained so after going out. A 
 number of gay people came and took me by the hand at the close, 
 and appeared thankful for the opportunity. 
 
 " ith. — Went on towards Birr ; stopped at a poor inn by the 
 way, and refreshed ourselves with some provisions which Friends 
 
19S 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 gave us ; and afterwards had a religious opportunity with the 
 inn-keeper, his wife and family, to our satisfaction. 
 
 " bth. — To the meeting at Birr, where strangers came in, with 
 whom I had a pretty good time. 
 
 " 6th. — In the meeting at Roscrea, I was silently shut up ; and 
 in an evening meeting at Knockballymaher, great dulness ap- 
 peared, and nothing for me to do. 
 
 " 7th. — To the meeting at Mountrath, which was large and 
 mixed ; I was favoured soon to feel that there were some precious 
 plants there, among whom I had a good time. John Abbott also 
 had a share in the labour, and I ventured to conclude the meeting 
 by prayer. 
 
 " 8th. — To Ballinakill meeting, which was a time of suffering ; 
 there was a poor little company of Friends, and some few others 
 stepped in ; after some considerable time of silent exercise, I ven- 
 tured to prostrate myself and supplicate the Lord to remember 
 poor desolate Zion, &c. Before the meeting concluded, divers 
 others with some soldiers coming in, I felt for and addressed them. 
 After dinner, accompanied by several friends, rode to Kilkenny. 
 
 " 9th. — Arrived at Anner-mills, twenty-two miles. I feel 
 much recruited in my bodily powers, and believe I should have 
 felt pleasanter if I had been more watchful last evening. O ! 
 what a poor weak and feeble creature I am, when the Divine arm 
 is but a little withdrawn to prove me ; and what state is more 
 safe than a broken contrite one — learn contentment therein, O 
 my soul ! 
 
 " 10th, First-day. — Rode to meeting with Sarah Grubb and her 
 sister, E. Pim, and was favoured with a relieving time ; and in 
 the afternoon meeting had an opportunity to open the principles 
 of truth to a number of soldiers and others who came in, and 
 behaved solidly ; then back to Sarah Grubb's, and in the evening 
 the family was called in, when a portion of the Holy Scriptures 
 was read by the children — a commendable practice. 
 
 " 15th. — Surely it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that 
 runneth, but of God that showeth mercy. 0 ! how gloomy have 
 prospects been of late to my mind ! what a poor, and if it may 
 not be too nearly reflecting on Divine Goodness, what a wretched 
 man I have often felt myself. I have cause to be thankful in 
 feeling so, that afterward the riches of Divine love and mercy 
 may be more magnified. May I then wait and watch in patience ; 
 for when the Sun of righteousness shines forth, these clouds dis- 
 appear : sorrow continueth for a night, but joy cometh in the 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 199 
 
 morning ; and I am thankful to find a liberty to think and hope 
 so much as this." 
 
 In a letter written from this place, Fourth Month 1 5th, to his 
 father-in-law, David Bacon, he says : 
 
 " We have been pretty busily employed since I wrote thee my 
 last, and I think there is but one meeting of Friends in this 
 nation but what I have been at, and some of them divers times 
 over. I have had deeply to feel of late, the force and truth of 
 the dear Master's language to his disciples ; ' After ye have done 
 all that I have commanded you, say we are unprofitable servants,' 
 &c., feeling myself often a very poor creature ; sometimes I think, 
 like a vessel that has been beating about in the sea, and wants 
 refitting. Well, if I can but be so preserved as to retain my faith 
 in his holy Name, and to believe that he will yet preserve the 
 little bark, and trust it again on the waters to the peace of my 
 poor tribulated soul in the end, and to the praise of his ever 
 excellent name, to whom belongs the praise of his own work, 
 both in time and eternity, — it is all I desire. Through holy 
 Help I have been favoured to behold some fruits of ferveut labour 
 in this land ; yea, I trust I have seen at seasons, that the labours 
 of the servants who have of late been sent into this land have 
 been blessed. I went to see a widow of considerable note in 
 Waterford, who, with three lovely daughters have attended 
 Friends' meetings for some months past, and paid them two ten- 
 dering visits. I have met with nothing in all my travels, more 
 like what we read of in the beginning of our forefathers' labours, 
 than our first visit to this tender family, — though in gay life, yet 
 to behold the brokenness, even before words were uttered, was to 
 my admiration. The last time we were at Ross, there came in 
 several goodly people, to whom I felt the love of the gospel flow, 
 and after the meeting we visited two of them in their families. 
 The first was a young clergyman, who has been so brought under 
 a right exercise and concern, that sometime back he called his 
 flock together and took leave of them ; informing them that he 
 had not a right commission to preach. He has given up his 
 living also, and entered into the corn business, in partnership 
 with a neighbour ; he appears under much exercise of mind, and 
 I thought it was evident he received us with gladness. The other 
 is a merchant, who, I was informed, had been brought up to the 
 law : in the opportunity with him he was much broken, and it 
 was also remarked that one of the children particularly, was much 
 
200 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 tendered. 0 ! saith my soul, and all that is living within me, 
 that the great Lord of the harvest would hasten the day, when 
 more precious fruits may appear in the earth : that more sons 
 and daughters may come under this description mentioned by the 
 prophet ; ' It shall come, that I will gather all nations and tongues; 
 and they shall come, and see my glory. And I will set a sign 
 among them, and I will send those that escape of them unto the 
 nations, to Tarshish, Pul, and Lud, that draw the bow, to Tubal, 
 and Javan, to the isles afar off, that have not heard my fame, 
 neither have seen my glory ; and they shall declare my glory 
 among the Gentiles.'" 
 
 "18^/i. — Went to the Quarterly Meeting, and had to labour 
 among the men in a close manner ; afterwards went into the 
 women's meeting, and had an open time. 
 
 " 19^. — Still close and exercising times in the adjournment : 
 the meeting ended this evening. When the subject respecting 
 bearing arms was brought before the meeting, a precious covering 
 was over it ; gainsaying spirits were silenced, and a minute was 
 made to stir up overseers to visit such as have destructive weapons 
 in their habitations, and induce them to destroy them ; and 
 Friends are about establishing another boarding school : on the 
 whole it gave me joy and comfort to see that truth and righteous- 
 ness are thriving over all opposition in Ireland. 
 
 "20^/i. — Attended the parting meeting; and though a close 
 and searching time, I hope it was profitable ; dear M. Dudley 
 summed up the exercises in the close, to my comfort. After 
 sitting with the select members in the adjournment of that meeting, 
 which was a season to be remembered, (and may my soul be hum- 
 bled,) Mary took me to Anner-mills in her carriage ; and it was 
 a time wherein the poor exercised labourers were brought into 
 great nearness and fellowship." 
 
 After this he proceeded through Kilkenny and Ballitore, and 
 on the 23rd arrived in Dublin. 
 
 " 24th, First-day. — I am a poor unworthy creature, and if again 
 favoured to stand forth in the noble cause of truth and righteous- 
 ness, surely it must be of the Lord's mercy. I am looking and 
 feeling, in order to ascertain whether way will open after this 
 National Meeting, to return to England. Sometimes the query 
 arises in my heart, shall I be favoured to see my dear aged mother 
 in this world? If not, O ! that we may be favoured, through 
 adorable mercy, to meet in the world to come, in happiness and 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 201 
 
 peace. Went to Sycamore Alley meeting ; and though it was 
 small, I was favoured with an open time, and in the close desired 
 Friends to invite their neighbours to the afternoon meeting ; when 
 we had a large gathering, and though a laborious time, with some 
 dark spirits to deal with, yet hope it was a time of profit, tending 
 to exalt the name of Christ Jesus my Lord and Saviour. In the 
 evening felt easy and quiet in mind, and as comfortable in body 
 as I could wish for. 
 
 " 25th, Second-day. — To the men^ National Meetingfor business, 
 held in Meath Street, both morning and afternoon, in which I 
 was much engaged, and felt a fear lest I dealt rather closely with 
 some who appeared to move in too shallow water. Consider, O 
 my soul ! that thou art liable to temptation ! 
 
 " Fifth Month \st. — Meeting for business ended late on Fifth-day 
 evening, and Sixth-day was the parting meeting, and the meeting 
 for ministers and elders, — and my mind has been so taken up with 
 the service of them, &c, that I have made no memorandums. 
 Let it suffice that I have been favoured to travel through ; and 
 to-day, First-day, attended very large meetings, and much labour 
 has fallen to my share, and sweet enriching peace is my portion 
 this evening, which is better than anything this world can afford. 
 
 11 3rd. — To meeting, which was very large and I had an open 
 time to my great admiration, considering what an unworthy, poor 
 creature I felt like when I arose from my bed and went to the 
 meeting; divers Friends stepped in after meeting, and I had 
 another opportunity." 
 
202 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERG0OD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 1796. EMBARKS FROM DUBLIN FOR LIVERPOOL, AND THENCE PROCEEDS 
 
 TO LONDON ATTENDS LONDON YEARLY MEETING EXTRACT FROM A 
 
 LETTER RECEIVED FROM REBECCA JONES VISITS MEETINGS AND 
 
 FAMILIES IN AND ABOUT LONDON WRITES TO REBECCA JONES — MEETS 
 
 WITH WILLIAM 8AVERY, DAVID SANDS, AND GEORGE DILLWYN, IN 
 
 LONDON RELIGIOUS SERVICE IN ESSEX LETTER TO A FRIEND VISITS 
 
 CAMBRIDGESHIRE, BEDS, BUCKS, OXON, AND BRISTOL WRITES TO A 
 
 FRIEND TRAVELS IN BERKSHIRE RETURNS TO LONDON. 
 
 On the 4th of Fifth month, he embarked for Liverpool, in com- 
 pany with twenty-five Friends, where they arrived on the 7th. 
 On the 7th, First-day, he attended both meetings at Liverpool, 
 and was " shut up in silent poverty." On the 12th, he reached 
 London, and was kindly received by his friends Joseph and Rachel 
 Smith, where David Sands also arrived in the evening, and took 
 up his lodgings. 
 
 The Yearly Meeting of London coming on, and his mind being 
 brought under deep exercise and discouragement, no memoran- 
 dums occur until the following, viz : 
 
 " I laid aside my pen until this morning, the 6th of Sixth 
 Month, and second of the week ; feeling more cheerful and com- 
 fortable in mind. I have passed through a scene of affliction of 
 late, not only during the time of the Yearly Meeting, but since ; 
 my religious prospects appearing at times almost like a brook 
 dried up." 
 
 The following extracts are taken from a letter which he received 
 while in London, from his beloved friend Rebecca Jones, viz : 
 
 " Sitting pensively and alone this evening, whilst Friends are 
 assembled at the High Street Meeting-house, and recounting some 
 of the Lord's gracious dealings and marvellous acts towards and 
 upon me, thou wast brought so preciously near to my disconsolate 
 mind, that I have taken the pen in hand to tell thee so. Thy letter 
 to me, written partly at sea, and thy remembrance of me in those 
 to thy dear wife and son, both revived and contrited my spirit. 
 Our dear brother Samuel Emlen was at our North meeting this 
 morning, where he was enabled to declare the Master's counsel 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 203 
 
 faithfully in a living testimony, which, with a similar one from 
 dear Deborah Darby two weeks ago, was like 'summing up the 
 evidence' for me, now near the close of the arduous family visit I 
 have been engaged in, and which I trust will be completed in 
 another week. I have proceeded gradually, often beset with dis- 
 couragements, often in great weakness and fear. But the Lord 
 who healed me in sickness, has been near, and to Him be the 
 praise of his own works ; for indeed his hand alone has opened a 
 door of admission into the houses of my friends, and melted many 
 of our hearts together, under the softening influences of his great 
 mercy and loving kindness toward us. May I be kept little and 
 low before him, and mayst thou derive some encouragement from 
 this feeble testimony to his goodness ; so as to finish the work 
 which may be given thee to do in that part of the Lord's vineyard, 
 where he has many precious plants, unto whom my spirit is united 
 in Christian fellowship. 
 
 "Our Yearly Meeting was large and solemn, and some steps 
 have been taken, I hope, in best wisdom, for the advancement of 
 the great and good cause : a joint committee of men and women 
 Friends was appointed to consider and arrange matters for open- 
 ing a boarding school for the youth ; so that in time we may have 
 an American Ackworth, which was dear Sarah Grubb's prospect. 
 I am too old to enter again into the service, but as my heart wishes 
 prosperity to the work, I have submitted to have my name on that 
 committee. 
 
 "When the afflicting tidings of dear Elizabeth Drinker's depar- 
 ture arrived, I went down and staid a great part of the day with 
 dear Daniel and Abigail, where I had to tell them that our sitting 
 solemnly together reminded me of the time when Job's friends sat 
 with him in silent astonishment, and that it was sealed upon my 
 spirit, with regard to the dear departed, that all is well. Soon after 
 this thy letter to Daniel came to hand, and I read it to the rela- 
 tions, wherein were the very same expressions, which thou offered 
 as descriptive of the first visit to her. They bear the affliction as 
 becomes Christian minds, and will, I hope, be supported under the 
 close trial, by the same good Hand which was so eminently near 
 her to the end." 
 
 After alluding to several recent deaths she says : 
 "It is indeed a solemn day everywhere : 0 ! that the inhabitants 
 of the earth may now learn righteousness. May the work thou art 
 engaged in be blessed by the great Master ; for as the ability is 
 from him, so must we also leave the issue with Him who can work 
 
204 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD 
 
 [1796. 
 
 without us, and also with us, as he pleaseth. May thy heart 
 endure and thy hands be strong in our Master's service, that so 
 his blessed will may be perfected, and thy peace flow as a river. 
 Think sometimes of poor me, and intercede when thou canst for 
 my preservation ; for 0 ! I feel as though I should sink like poor 
 Peter did, was the Divine hand withdrawn ; and my faith, like his, 
 is often very small. 
 
 " Thou art frequently in my affectionate remembrance, — may 
 the Shepherd of Israel, who evidently put thee forth, go before 
 thee and make all thy labour prosperous, under his immediate 
 blessing ; without which, neither the planting of Paul, nor the 
 watering of Apollos, will promote the intended happy increase of 
 righteousness, which is in the Lord's time to cover the earth, as 
 the waters cover the sea. May infinite Wisdom be pleased, for his 
 own name's sake, to hasten this day; and may we wait in patience, 
 and endure hardness as good soldiers, for Christ's sake, seeing that 
 to him and his followers the victory is decreed.'" 
 
 Went to morning meeting in an humbled condition, and soon 
 prostrated myself on my knees, and prayed to the Father and 
 fountain of mercies, for myself, and my fellow-labourers, both on 
 sea and land, our wives, children, &c, and for all the Lord's 
 gathered messengers. Spent part of the afternoon retired alone in 
 my chamber, under close conflict ; and yet, after so often mention- 
 ing these things, I know there is no room for murmuring or repin- 
 ing. Cast thy care then, 0 ! my tribulated soul, on the Lord, and 
 patiently wait until deliverance comes. What greater trial is there 
 than to be stripped and unclothed of all good, and to sit in this 
 state from day to day, and appear like an idler in the. work, so far 
 from home ; these are peculiar trials. 
 
 " 12th, First-day. — Attended the meeting at Tottenham, in 
 which S. Harrison had a remarkably close time; soon after I took 
 my seat in the afternoon meeting, I felt a little to communicate in 
 weakness to some of the servants, and those of low degree, &c, in 
 an encouraging line. S. Harrison had such a searching time, that 
 it seemed as though my foundation was brought to the test, and I 
 thought she was rightly led whether I was or not. Ah, me! what 
 a poor soldier am I, if indeed I am one at all. I have put on a 
 cheerful countenance, and in some instances of late, when in 
 company with my valued brother, David Sands, I have been 
 roused and cheered a little ; but still my heart has been sad. 
 
 "]4£/i. — Felt a little ray of light and sweetness on awaking this 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 205 
 
 morning. After breakfast looked over this book of my journeys, 
 travels, and conflicts, to this time; and truly I think I am a poorer 
 creature than heretofore. 0 ! that I may be accounted worthy of 
 the name of a servant of Christ. Surely my state now resembles 
 that of one laid aside ; but dare I complain, even if it should be 
 the blessed Master's will to lay me aside ? 
 
 u ~i5th. — -Went to town with T. H. and wife, and to Grace- 
 church Street meeting, where I found David Sands, and it was a 
 solid, silent time : the adjournment of the Monthly Meeting was 
 held at the close, when a certificate was read and signed for George 
 Dillwyn to visit Germany, his wife being included in it. 
 
 "19^, First-day. — This morning Joseph Smith and David 
 Sands stopped with a post-chaise and took me to Hertford meeting ; 
 in which dear David was preciously enlarged, especially in the 
 afternoon, in a meeting appointed for the people of the town. 
 
 "20^/i. — To the Quarterly Meeting, which I hope was throughout 
 a good time of encouragement. David Sands and I visited the 
 women's meeting. 
 
 "21s£. — David Sands and companion inclining to goto London, 
 to be at Devonshire House meeting, and dear Sarah Harrison 
 appearing under a close exercise to go to Brentford meeting, I felt at 
 liberty to accompany her : and though I had nothing to communi- 
 cate, yet was willing to bear up her hands, and got back to Totten- 
 ham in good season. Felt my mind, this evening, drawn much 
 inward, under close exercise, and was shut up from conversation ; 
 and when we sat down to supper, was favoured to prostrate in 
 humble supplication. It was a time of baptism, I trust, to be 
 remembered. After which I lay down more sweet and comfortable 
 than for a long time. O ! what a favour once more vouchsafed to 
 poor unworthy me. 
 
 "■22nd. — A sweet refreshing night, and comfort extended when 
 awake. Awake then, 0 my soul! and listen to the voice of thy 
 beloved, who hath not cast thee off ; look forward with humble, 
 depending patience, and hope in his mercy. 
 
 " 2\th. — Attended the scholar's meeting at Clerkenwell ; there 
 were not many men Friends there ; but to me it was an open com- 
 fortable time with the children : afterwards I stepped over 
 amongst the poor women in the Alms-house, and had a tendering 
 time. In the evening went to an appointed meeting for Sarali 
 Harrison, held in a barn about two miles from Tottenham ; it was 
 large, and I hope to profit. 
 
 u 25th. — At Tottenham meeting, both morning and afternoon, 
 
206 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 which were favoured seasons ; David Sands and I returned to 
 Thomas Home's together, and after supper he was much opened 
 in conversing on some passages of Scripture, to our edification and 
 comfort; and in the close a sweet covering of good, more and more 
 spread, and I kneeled down in supplication ; dear Sarah followed 
 in the same line, and it was indeed a memorable evening. 
 
 "27th. — To London Quarterly Select Meeting; and in it I felt 
 unwell and much exercised. 
 
 "28£A. — To the Quarterly Meeting for business, and hope I was 
 favoured rightly to bend in s application ; and this was all that fell 
 to my share, either in the public meeting, or in the business part." 
 
 From the 29th of Sixth to 10th of Seventh Month, was mostly 
 spent in visiting the meetings in the vicinity of London, particu- 
 larly Tottenham ; and also a considerable number of families, in 
 which he was favoured with ability to open the states of individuals, 
 and administer proper religious counsel; describing them as being 
 frequently heart-melting, humbling or tendering seasons. 
 
 From London, he addressed a letter to his friend Kebecca Jones, 
 dated Seventh Month, 1796, from which the following is extracted. 
 
 " My very dear Friend. 
 
 " Thy letter, which came safely to hand, is a fresh proof of 
 thy sisterly sympathy and love, and has done me much good. It 
 was pleasant to find that thou hadst been to New York and 
 Rahway, the latter a place both of exercise and of favour to me in 
 days past. From what I have lately heard, I do not marvel that 
 thy sorrow has been great, and the language of my soul at this 
 moment is, not only on thy account, but also my own, 'Lord, 
 bring thou me out of my distresses, and preserve through all that 
 thou in thy wisdom may permit to come upon us. 1 And, my dear 
 friend, my faith is renewed on thy account, that thy feet will not 
 be moved from the sure foundation ; and after saying so much, it 
 is in my heart to add, remember poor me. 
 
 "Very pleasant to me was thy account of the young preachers. 
 I rejoice in their growth; remembering, and humblingly so, how 
 mercifully I was cared for in the day when, like a little child, I 
 tottered along, and sometimes slipped, and fell and bruised myself 
 thereby ; yet help was reached forth both immediately and instru- 
 mentally. When we remember those seasons, who can grudge or 
 deal hardly with any of the little ones. I was glad to hear so 
 good an account of dear J. W. ; he was near to my best life before 
 1 left vou, and I thought what has happened would come to pass, 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEBGOOD. 
 
 207 
 
 and told him so. May the great Master of the family and Shep- 
 herd of the sheep, preserve all on the right foundation, and enable 
 them to spread his name abroad in due time. 
 
 " 0 what stripping has there been amongst you, since I saw 
 your faces ! I have had many humbling thoughts in looking at 
 these things, but have consoled myself in the persuasion, that the 
 God of the whole earth doubtless doeth right. I request thee to 
 call, and, as ability is afforded, yield the sympathy of thy spirit to 
 my dear wife and aged mother ; and when thou hast a little of 
 heavenly good, do not withhold it from thy poor and often tried 
 friend, who needs thy sympathy and prayers for his support, and 
 probably may yet more need them.' 1 '' 
 
 " Seventh Month 10£A, First-day. — Having heard that Waltham 
 Abbey meeting was to be opened this day, for the few living in that 
 neighbourhood and Enfield, I felt a freedom to go and sit with 
 them, and was accompanied by T. Horne, wife and daughter S. 
 Soon after I sat down amongst the little company, some encourage- 
 ment spread over my mind, and after a time I arose on my feet 
 and endeavoured to express it ; and before I had done a number 
 of persons of other societies came in, and I hope on the whole it 
 ended well. 
 
 " We stopped at John Burgess 1 , and after some time spent in 
 conversation, my heart was filled up, and broken under a sense of 
 the Lord's mercies to me from my youth, in leading me about and 
 instructing me to that moment. I had an opportunity to express 
 some of the feelings of my mind ; and it opened an effectual door 
 for my exercised friend to relieve her mind, in which I rejoiced. 
 Returned back with sweetness of mind, and had another oppor- 
 tunity at T. Home's with a number of youth ; here I learned that 
 William Savery had arrived in London. 
 
 " 1 Ith. — Set off rather earlier in order to see dear William before 
 meeting, but found he had gone. How were my feelings awakened 
 in divers respects, on dear William's certificate being read, and 
 the prospect of his accompanying David Sands and George Dillwyn 
 into a strange land ; mine in that respect closed up. I desire to 
 wait on Him who hath, in abundant mercy, made hard things easy, 
 and bitter things sweet. The sorrows of my heart have of late 
 been great, and yet not without a mixture of joy, for which I bow, 
 I hope with reverence and awe, knowing I cannot add any thing, 
 neither diminish. Surely it is of the Lord's goodness I am not 
 confounded. Attended the school meeting at Clerkenwell, and an 
 examination of the scholars. William and David had good oppor- 
 tunities with the children. 
 
208 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 " 15th. — Went on board the ship William Pennvutln Nicholas 
 Wain, my father D. Bacon, Sarah Harrison, George Dillwyn and 
 wife, David Sands, William Savery, and others. Nicholas Wain, 
 appeared easy to take his passage. After dinner retired for the 
 purpose of writing. 1 ' 
 
 In a letter to his son, dated the 16th, in alluding to the circum- 
 stance of a house in the vicinity of his own, being struck with 
 lightning, he says : 
 
 " I notice with renewed thankfulness, your preservation ' from 
 the arrow that flieth by day. 1 We have been kept in a season 
 when terror was in the night ; and when the pestilence walked in 
 darkness, and destruction wasted at noonday. Many have fallen 
 at our right hand and at our side, and only with our eyes have we 
 so far beheld his marvellous work. O ! may you all keep this so 
 great mercy in view, not knowing how soon it may be the pleasure 
 of Omnipotence again to visit with these things. And if both I 
 and you, of my dear family, are concerned to make the Lord our 
 refuge, even the Most High our habitation, he will then, doubt- 
 less, condescend to keep us in all our ways, and direct our steps 
 aright ; and whether sooner or later, make all our bed in sickness. 
 This is what often occupies my mind ; for indeed, to be favoured 
 in time to be the servant of the Lord, doing his will, and not our 
 own, and to seek earnestly after a habitation with the just, is worth 
 living and suffering for, according to his will, often bearing in 
 remembrance, that here we have no continuing city. 
 
 " I am comforted in the persuasion, that thou wilt not lose sight 
 of these important things ; and if so happily favoured, then I know 
 that the Lord will bless thee and give thee enough of the earth, 
 for the cattle of a thousand hills are his, and he gives and dispenses 
 at his pleasure. Therefore, seek first the kingdom of God, and the 
 righteousness thereof, and all things necessary will be added.' 1 
 
 " \7th, First-day. — This morning I felt most easy to go to 
 Ratcliff meeting : my father-in-law David Bacon, and J oseph 
 Smith accompanied me ; and we were favoured with an open good 
 time ; and in the close requested Friends would take pains and 
 invite their neighbours to the evening meeting, my dear friend and 
 brother David Sands, intending to sit with them. To the meeting 
 at six o'clock, where I had some little to communicate, and David 
 a large time, and I hope it was to profit. 
 
 " 18th, Second-day. — To morning meeting, and at six o'clock 
 to a large meeting held in a barn near Black wall, appointed by 
 Sarah Harrison, which was a satisfactory time. 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 209 
 
 " 19th. — To Devonshire House meeting, where I found William 
 Savery, who was silent. I had a good time, also dear George 
 Dillwyn. William appointed a meeting at six o'clock, for the 
 inhabitants. Went home and dined, and after an heart-humbling 
 season, wherein both David Sands and S. Harrison appeared in 
 prayer for the preservation of the poor labourers, &c, and taking 
 an affectionate farewell, my father David Bacon, accompanied me 
 to Thomas Home's ; soon after which, came in T. Phillips and 
 divers others, with whom, and this family, I had a tendering time, 
 and after it spent the evening sweetly." 
 
 The following extract is taken from a letter addressed to him 
 by his beloved friend Mary Dudley, dated, 
 
 Boss, Seventh Month 2nd, 1796. 
 
 " Beloved Friend, 
 " When I was in this place some weeks ago, the stream of pre- 
 cious fellowship ran so strongly in inclination to salute thee, that 
 I have often since regretted that I did not yield to it ; not that I 
 then knew I had anything good in possession, nor am I now sen- 
 sible of any qualification, but the renewing of the same feeling, and 
 the continuance of that love, which I trust will never bequenched by 
 any of the waters of trial, or waves of conflict, wherewith the poor 
 vessel may yet be tossed in its probationary passage to the land of 
 rest. Surely, if ever I am favoured to enter the harbour, it will be 
 through abundant mercy ; for at seasons, so many are the fears 
 attendant on the path allotted me, that the grain of faith seems 
 too small to keep in steady hope of everlastingly anchoring there : 
 nevertheless, when favoured to get into the region of calm resigna- 
 tion, faith strengthens and hope revives ; and knowing that the 
 Lord sitteth above the water-floods, and remaineth King for ever, 
 the burden is, 1 trust, acceptably cast on him, and a consoling 
 persuasion experienced, that he continueth to care for me. These 
 are things mostly worn within, but to thee, my dear brother, it is 
 no marvel if the heart should get a little vent, seeing how won- 
 drously thy mind has been dipped in relation to a subject, wherein, 
 like the roll written within and without, my meditations are em- 
 ployed oftener than the returning day, though I thought not of 
 touching upon it just now. It was a sort of sad communication 
 which my spirit seemed holding with thine, and the uniting feeling 
 inclined me thus to tell thee so ; believing thine is truly a path of 
 deep exercising travail, wherein perhaps the tracks of many foot- 
 steps are not seen — a line wherein thou art made to resemble thy 
 
210 
 
 MUMOIUS OF THOMAS SCATTEHGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 great Master, who ' was a man of sorrows, and acquainted with 
 grief. 1 Well, this thou knowest is the acceptable way to ' fill up 
 that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ for the body's sake, 
 which is the church.' And 0 ! saith my soul, that great was the 
 addition to the church militant of such members as were resigned 
 to these dispensations, and willing to be plunged deep enough to 
 complete this measure of inward suffering. But dost thou not fear, 
 (I speak freely what I have said in my heart often,) that there is 
 much of a dwelling on the surface, not only in people, but in the 
 ministry ? Are the different states visited by all thus concerned, 
 as their various exigencies require I The ground of true ministry 
 appears increasingly awful to my view, and ' Who is sufficient for 
 the work,' is the frequent inquiry raised ; and who can be fitted, 
 but such as are willing to drink of the cup and bear the repeated 
 baptisms ? These bear about in the body the marks of the Lord 
 Jesus, and these availingly visit the sick and imprisoned seed, even 
 in silent travail, when deep only uttereth unto deep. Well, my 
 endeared friend, great is the liberty of the truth, and much the 
 freedom wherewith I address thee, as though conversing, or, as 
 dear Esther Tuke used to say, ' thinking aloud." 1 " 
 
 " 2i)th. — Set off this morning about eight o'clock, with my dear 
 father, who has given up to accompany me a little on my journey, 
 and several other Friends ; put up at Benjamin Fincham's, and 
 attended the meeting of Friends. Appointed one for the towns- 
 people [Epping] at six o'clock. Went to James Healey's, where 
 came his brother and sister Coxhead, with whom I had a religious 
 opportunity, and it appeared to be well received. He is called Sir 
 Thomas, and is a member of Parliament ; she, a plain woman. 
 
 " 2]st. — This morning we stepped into most of the families of 
 Friends. Dined at Thomas Ooxhead's, with his wife and several 
 others, he being gone to London ; and after it my spirit was broken 
 and humbled so much as to bring me on my knees. I remembered 
 a circumstance which occurred, when I set out with David Brooks 
 for New England ; we had stopped at a house several days' journey 
 from home, and taking up an old Testament, I attempted to read ; 
 but my spirit was swallowed up with such a weight and solemnity, 
 and, as I then apprehended, the spirit of supplication was poured 
 out on me as I had never felt it before, that I could not read ; and 
 laying down my book, sat in an awful state of mind, until called 
 to dinner, and then gave way to my exercise ; and after it my 
 elder brother, David Brooks, continued the same. Ah ! surely it 
 
1796.] 
 
 MKMOl RS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 211 
 
 was a moment not to be forgotten by me, in my then infant state. 
 And how earnestly did my soul crave preservation in this season 
 now vouchsafed, both for myself and others in an infant state. 
 
 " 22nd. — To Benjamin Finchanrs. Here we obtained liberty 
 to go and sit in the chamber of a sick daughter, where we had 
 father and mother, son and daughter together, and my friend S. 
 Horne was favoured fully to relieve her mind, for which I rejoiced ; 
 and taking an affectionate leave, my father and I mounted our 
 horses and pursued our journey. Stopped on our way about four 
 miles, and visited a widow and daughter-in-law, which, I hope, 
 was a time of encouragement. Got to Bishop Stortford about two 
 o'clock, and soon after gave liberty to invite their neighbours, to 
 come together at meeting at six o'clock. I admire at the kind- 
 ness shown me of latter days. My burden has been lightened and 
 I moved on cheerfully this day, accompanied by my dear father. 
 The appointed meeting was large, and to me a laborious one, but 
 was favoured, after a considerable time of silence, to begin in great 
 weakness, and got through. When I was coming out, I met with 
 a large number of poor, shabby looking youth on the stairs, who 
 stopped, and some also were near the door, and I had to encourage 
 them to be good children, that so they might be great ; having 
 had in the course of my testimony to address such, and told them 
 that God was able to raise up from the stones of the street, chil- 
 dren unto Abraham. 
 
 "24#A. — To meeting at Saffron Walden, and was favoured with 
 an open precious time of encouragement, and at the close appointed 
 one for the town, which was a season of much enlargement in 
 testimony with me, and I had a sweet refreshing time. After 
 getting home and sitting quiet, a humble hope revived, that the 
 Lord my heavenly Master would not leave me, though he may see 
 meet yet to prove and try my faith, patience and love. 
 
 " 26th. — To the Monthly Meeting, which was larger than usual, 
 and attended by divers youth from a distance ; in the fore part of 
 it my soul was humbled and prostrated in prayer for myself, 
 fellow-labourers in this land and others, with those left behind at 
 home ; and afterwards I had a pretty large time in testimony. 
 The business was sweetly conducted in brotherly love ; we dined 
 at G. Gibson's with a number of Friends, after which came in 
 divers more, and amongst them I had a full good time, tendering 
 the minds of several of the youth ; soon after which had to part 
 from my dear father David Bacon, he setting off with William 
 Grover and wife, with a view of returning to London, and I am 
 
 p 2 
 
212 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 left behind without a companion ; but not like a partridge on the 
 mountain, or a sparrow on the house-top, because sustaining help 
 has been near, and still remains to be so at this moment. Thanks 
 be rendered where they are due : and 0 ! may my poor soul trust 
 in the Lord throughout the present journey, and to the end of my 
 pilgrimage in this land, come whatever may be permitted to come, 
 to try me. 
 
 " 27th. — Arose in a poor and stripped state, and went to the 
 week-day meeting, where I was soon favoured with such a sweet 
 silence, and in it had to look towards my dear wife, with faith to 
 believe that the Almighty arm is near to sweeten her mind, and 
 protect those I have left behind, in life or in death, that I could 
 have sat contentedly through the meeting in silence. But after a 
 season I was favoured to minister a word of encouragement to 
 my friends ; and surely there is need of humble thankfulness for 
 the favours I have experienced of late, and since coming to 
 this place. 11 
 
 On the 28th, he was at Stansted ; 29th, at Thaxted ; 30th, at 
 Dunmow; and the 31st, First-day, at the meeting at Chelmsford, 
 in which he says, " E. and G. Gibson had a little to communicate, 
 and I thought in the fore part something would have fallen to my 
 share, but all was dried up, and I sat the meeting through in 
 silence. In the afternoon my mind was drawn to look toward my 
 dear wife and family, far separated in body from me. How has 
 my spirit been present with them, accompanied with prayers and 
 supplications to the Father of mercies on their account, and with 
 sweetness and assurance that the Preserver of men is near and 
 will be so : this has often been the case, and yet when thoughts 
 deeply impress my soul, that if it should be ordered in the counsel 
 of our God, that my dear companion and I meet not again in this 
 world, surely I have believed that we shall in the world to come, 
 where there is neither marrying nor giving in marriage, as saith 
 our blessed Redeemer and Saviour ; and where such as finish their 
 course with joy in this world, are to be as the angels in heaven. 
 Even so be it, 0 God ! with humble submission, saith my soul, 
 whether such a baptism be to try my faith and love, and the stroke 
 be deferred, or whether I may be as a sign to the people in this 
 land, as the prophet was in his day. 0 my God ! favour me as 
 much as is profitable for thy servant, to put sorrow away from 
 my heart, that both with flesh and heart I may seek thy face con- 
 tinually, and be favoured to do and suffer thy blessed will, which 
 will be my sanctification — Amen. M 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 213 
 
 While here, he addressed the following letter to Sarah Cresson, 
 who had been but a short time in the station of a minister, viz : — 
 
 '•'•Robert Marriages, near Chelmsford, Essex, 
 Eighth Month 1st, 1796. 
 
 " Dear Cousin, — Having left most of my letters in my trunk 
 in London, and thine amongst them, I have it not with me ; but 
 thinking much of thee this morning, which I raav tell thee I have 
 done at other times, with near and tender affection, I concluded 
 to take up my pen and tell thee so. 
 
 " Many and various are the trials which such poor things as I 
 am, separated from near and dear connexions, have to pass 
 through ; and they have a tendency to dip the mind into a feeling 
 sympathy with and for those who have set out in the same blessed 
 work. The desire of my soul is, that thou, with all those who are 
 called of our heavenly Father to labour in his vineyard, may keep 
 steady to the work ; for blessed are they who keep their hands to 
 the plough, looking and pressing forwards, under the direction of 
 their Holy Head and High Priest. These will meet with sufficient 
 encouragement by the way : remember then, dear child, the way 
 to profit is to give thyself wholly to the work, so will thy profiting 
 appear to all ; study to show thyself approved unto the Lord thy 
 God, a workwoman in his house and family that need not be 
 ashamed, — rightly dividing the word of Truth, unto which service 
 thou art beyond any doubt in my mind called. Let not little acts 
 of faith and love, in the gospel of him, who hath called thee and 
 sanctified thee for his work, pass by undone ; for a cheerful sur- 
 render of thy will and faculties in little acts of obedience, will 
 make way for more, so wilt thou know thy day's work keeping 
 pace with the day, and then thou mayst look forward to the end, 
 which crowns all, even a finishing of thy work and course with 
 joy, and receive that crown, which is laid up in store for all such 
 as love the Lord Jesus Christ, and do his will. Love retirement 
 and reading the holy Scriptures. Treasure up such parts of them 
 as forcibly strike thy mind, and then at seasons thou wilt witness 
 the key of David handed to thee, which will unlock thy little 
 treasury, and open the mysteries with more enlargement, for the 
 help and benefit of others, who are ignorant and unlearned. Here 
 is the use and end of a gospel ministry, which is not received of 
 man, but of God ; and that which is received in secret, quiet 
 retirement, revives in meetings and families, and command- 
 ment is given to proclaim it abroad. Therefore, as a beloved 
 
214 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOU. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 younger sister in the work, I charge and counsel thee to give thy- 
 self to reading, meditation and prayer, and may thy God and 
 mine give thee wisdom in all things, to go in and out before the 
 people. Let no one despise thy youth ; neither do thou let in 
 discouragement from this quarter ; but in humility and reverence, 
 seek for a qualification to say, Here am I Lord, first prepare and 
 then send me. 
 
 " I have now, whilst writing, the pleasant company of my 
 valuable friend and mother, Elizabeth Gibson : she and her hus- 
 band have both been with me nearly a week. He is gone to a 
 Monthly Meeting about eighteen miles off, and has left me at his 
 son-in-law's to rest, — and if they do not both go on with me to- 
 morrow, I expect dear George will, and for all I see, go with me 
 through this county. He is indeed, in my opinion, a choice 
 spirited Friend, and a comfortable couple they both appear to be, 
 much* beloved by their friends. Two nieces of his live with them, 
 who have been as affectionate to me whilst at their house, as I 
 could look for my own children to be ; and very comfortable I felt 
 under their uncle's roof. I thought this account would be pleasing 
 to thy dear mother, to whom present my continued love and sym- 
 pathy ; and tell her, that it was good house-keeping formerly, 
 when the prophet kept the widow's house ; and my desire is, that 
 the great Prophet of prophets, may yet have room in her house 
 and heart. My dear love to thy brother Ebenezer, — tell him, 
 though I have not felt qualified to answer his affectionate letter, 
 yet he may be assured that he has a place in the mind of his 
 absent relation, who has rejoiced in hearing that he was dear J. 
 W.'s armour-bearer. And 0 ! that he and ray dear son, may be 
 companions in the way that leads to the everlasting kingdom. 
 
 " My love to all the rest of the precious lesser plants in the 
 family. 0 ! that they may grow up as plants in their youth, and 
 know a being dignified by the Truth in their day. May thou and 
 thy dear mother be encouraged to continue labour towards them, 
 to bend the tender twigs and form the mind. Ah ! how my heart 
 yearns towards mine own likewise, for whom my prayers are put 
 up, that they may be the Lord's children. In near and tender 
 love I. salute thee once more, who am thy affectionate friend and 
 relation, 
 
 " Thomas Scattergood." 
 
 " Eighth Month 2nd. — After attending the meeting at Maldon, 
 which I trust was a profitable one, rode to the widow Hurnard's. 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 215 
 
 "3rc?. — A solid opportunity with this family, including the ser- 
 vant maid, who was very much tendered, even to weeping aloud. 
 Went to meeting at Witham, where I understood was a Romish 
 priest, one of the emigrants from France, a curate, and divers persons 
 of note ; amongst them a physician, who had been much prejudiced 
 against Friends ; he stood most of the time, and appeared consi- 
 derably tendered. A Friend meeting him afterward, he was broken, 
 and sent his love and good wishes to me, and appeared much 
 satisfied in being at meeting. The Lord be praised for the mani- 
 festations of his goodness to my soul, both in the meeting and since, 
 bv shining through the cloud. Were it not for a draught of living 
 water from the brook by the way, what would become of such a 
 poor lonely creature ! 
 
 — To the meeting at Kelvedon, which was large, and an 
 open favoured time ; the people behaved well. The people in the 
 streets, as we passed along, were very respectful and kind in 
 noticing me, and I felt much love to them. A number of poor 
 children were at the meeting, and I hope from among this class 
 the Lord will raise up, in time, children unto Abraham, even as 
 from among the stones. A number of persons of higher degree 
 attended also, and I trust it was a meeting which will be remem- 
 bered — the Lord be praised for the help extended. 
 
 " 5th. — Attended the meeting at Cogwshall, and thouirh I had 
 a large time, it was not so open as yesterday : the circumstance of 
 James Parnell being taken up in this place, revived in my mind, 
 and I had to mention it ; also the great sufferings of Friends in 
 those days, and now how we are favoured : I was in no danger of 
 a prison for preaching the gospel of life and salvation. After 
 dismissing those not of our Society, I stopped with Friends, and 
 had a tendering good time. 
 
 " 6th. — Although favoured in meetings and in sittings, and with 
 a quiet mind at other times of late ; yet I could not but weep on 
 my pillow this morning on looking forward. 0 for purity of heart! 
 Surely, if this gives us to see the face of a merciful God, it will 
 have a tendency also to open the eye to see our duty clearly in all 
 things. The meeting at Copford was an open good time, wherein 
 I found it much easier to get relief than I often do. Dined at an 
 inn near by, and afterwards rode to John Kendall's at Colchester, 
 who with his wife were at the meeting. After tea I took a walk 
 with G. Gibson and John Kendall to the castle, and went over the 
 old ruins, where I was shewn the hole in the wall, from which it 
 is supposed dear James Parnell fell when confined in this place ; 
 
216 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 and also his apartment below, which looks like a baker's oven ; 
 the thickness of the wall bein<r about four times the length of mv 
 walking stick. Went into the library, and saw amongst many old 
 books, a number of Friends' writings. 
 
 " 7th, First-day. — The meeting was largely attended by Friends 
 and divers others, and I had a full good opportunity; at the close, 
 appointed one at six o'clock in the evening, which was very large, 
 and an open, relieving time ; in the course of which, I had to 
 mention the sufferings of the martyrs, and of our Friends in the 
 beginning, and particularly of that innocent youth James Parnell, 
 in this place, and advised the people to read his writings, and seek 
 and inquire after the truth for themselves. They behaved remark- 
 ably solid, and left the meeting so, even those who stood out of 
 doors, who were many. One person in the morning was much 
 affected, and refused to go away, though his companion urged him 
 to leave the meeting — twice coming back for the purpose. 
 
 " 9tk. — To a meeting held in a barn at Manningtree, which was 
 large, and an open good time : the people manifested much kind- 
 ness, several of them taking me by the hand and expressing it. 
 Rode to Harwich in the evening, and lodged at an inn. 
 
 "10th. — To a large meeting in the market-place, which was 
 solid and comfortable ; the people showing much kindness and 
 respect. 
 
 " 12th. — To a meeting at Halsted, which was nearly filled 
 with the town's people, and a pretty open time : stopped with 
 Friends afterwards, and was engaged to stir them up to maintain 
 the precious testimonies given us as a people to bear, and also to 
 encourage the mournful travellers. 
 
 " ISth. — Went to a meeting at Colne under pretty close 
 exercise and thoughtfulness, respecting the uncertainty of all 
 earthly comfort, and soon had to begin on this subject. It was a 
 tendering season to some. There were present a number of poor 
 aged people, leaning on their staves, one blind, &c, and I was 
 ready to think the plunge I had before the meeting, and in the 
 fore part of it, brought me into sympathy with such. After dinner 
 we rode to Halsted, and after tea to Joseph Smith's, near 
 Stebbing. 
 
 "14^/i, First-day. — Attended Stebbing meeting, which was 
 filled with Friends from different places, and many of the towns- 
 people ; amongst whom I went poor and stripped, and continued 
 so for some time ; but afterwards, strength arising, I had an open 
 time. 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCAT TERGOOD. 
 
 217 
 
 " 15th. — After resting the greater part of this day we moved to 
 E. Knight's, at a little village called Finchingfield. This kind 
 Friend, after the meeting on First-day, mentioned his desire that 
 I would have a meeting in this place : it does not appear there 
 ever was a Friends 1 meeting held here, and none but himself and 
 wife, under our name, reside in the village. When we came to 
 his house, he took us to see an old bark house which he had fitted 
 up with seats and a gallery, and he was out until after ten o'clock 
 giving notice, —going about five miles oft' after we arrived. May 
 the Lord bless his faith and love to the cause in which I have 
 embarked. 
 
 " 16th. — Went to the meeting, which was very large, many being 
 out of doors — and it proved a favoured, open time; in which, 
 through holy help, my heart was much enlarged, and the people 
 behaved solidly. I remembered these expressions ; ' I am the 
 Lord thy God which teacheth thee to profit ; which leadeth thee 
 by the way that thou shouldest go.' Notwithstanding I exerted 
 myself for a long time, I felt much better than I did before meeting 
 — the pain in my breast, which 1 had had before, being removed. 
 In the evening had an opportunity with E. Knight, wife and 
 daughter, to my satisfaction. I have not met with greater faith and 
 love, I think, in this land, than this Friend has manifested. I 
 thought of the governor of the island of Tortola, who caused seats 
 to be carried many miles on men's heads to accommodate a meeting 
 held by Thomas Chalkley. 
 
 " 19th. — A struggling, humbling night : and though I felt very 
 poor and unworthy in the morning of this day, and went so to the 
 meeting at Haverhill, nevertheless, I was much enlarged in a full 
 meeting for the town ; the house not containing the people. I 
 was informed that this was a place of suffering to our forefathers — 
 now, what a change. A priest attended the meeting, as well as a 
 doctor and lawyer, and it was a solid time. 
 
 "21s#, First-day. — Went to Cambridge with James Wright 
 and daughter, where I met with George Gibson and wife. When 
 we went to the meeting, a multitude were gathered in the street 
 and passage near, and after the doors were opened, they soon filled 
 the house, and it proved a solid time. Dined at the inn with nearly 
 forty Friends, and had an opportunity with this large company, 
 wherein I endeavoured to persuade them to hold up their light 
 before the people : near the close several neighbours came in, to 
 whom my mind was afresh turned. After I had parted with dear 
 George Gibson, and he had rode about a mile on his way to 
 
218 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 Walden, he was not easy without following me, and he overtook 
 us and accompanied me to his nephew's at Royston. 
 
 "22nd — I find this morning that there is a little company under 
 our name in this place, and after some thoughtful exercise I was 
 most easy to see them hy themselves. I accordingly had an oppor- 
 tunity with them ; and a full, close time it was, and dear George 
 rejoiced that he came to us. We then went to Hitchin and 
 put up at Rudd Wheeler's. 
 
 " 2^th. — Feeling easy to move from this place, Hitchin, and 
 mentioning it to Rudd Wheeler, he prepared to go with me. 
 We got into Amersham near dark, after riding about thirty miles. 
 
 "25th. — Attended the week-day meeting ; divers of the town 
 came in, and I had an open, good meeting. This is the town 
 where the corpse, mentioned in Thomas Ellwood's journal, was 
 thrown from Friends 1 shoulders and laid in the street some time ; 
 and Isaac Penington, T. Ellwood and others were put into prison 
 for attending the funeral. I was shown the place, near the market- 
 house. After tea we went to High Wycombe. 
 
 " 26th. — To the meeting at High Wycombe, and on the 27th 
 got into Oxford and put up at an inn. On entering into this town 
 we were mocked by the children ; and I have not noticed more 
 drunkenness any where in this land, than in walking through this 
 place this evening. 
 
 " 28th, First-day. — Went to meeting poor and stripped ; it was 
 very large and crowded. A remarkable quiet attended the gather- 
 ing, and continued throughout ; and the people parted with much 
 solidity, to my humbling admiration ; for it was an open, good 
 time to me, and I hope to many others. At the close I stopped 
 the few Friends that live in this place, and we had a comfortable 
 time together. After dining we set off, passing through Witney, 
 and arrived at Burford, where we met a kind reception from 
 Thomas and Elizabeth Minching. 
 
 "3Qth. — After a silent sitting with Thomas Huntley's scholars, 
 and the few Friends who live in this place, I felt easy to move on, 
 and proceeding to Cirencester, put up with Thomas Brown. 
 
 <« 31^. — To the week-day meeting at this place, wdiich was a 
 pretty open time: in the afternoon passed through Tetbury, 
 where stands an old meeting-house of Friends, but no meeting is 
 held in it, and arrived at Bristol towards evening. 
 
 " Ninth Month 1st. — To Thomas Phillips', near the Wells, 
 where came the widow Usher and daughter, who are attending 
 upon a daughter in a consumption, and near her end ; and a sweet 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEKGOOD. 
 
 219 
 
 season we had together. When I met with them in Waterford, 
 Ireland, they were gay [in their dress], now so friendly and plain 
 that I did not know them. 
 
 " 6th. — The meeting here was large, and I had a pretty open, 
 relieving time, though close to some states, yet a comfortable 
 opening toward the visited youth." 
 
 While at Bristol he wrote a letter to his friend Susannah 
 Horne, dated Ninth Month 7th, from which the following is 
 taken, viz : 
 
 " I parted from thee with a cheerful mind, believing thy stay 
 with us was right, and it was not long before a vacancy was felt 
 by me, who am frequently a poor blind creature, but endeavouring 
 to cast my care on the great Care-taker and Preserver of his 
 servants, I moved on from place to place, as way opened. I had 
 to admire how my spirit was supported in the season of parting 
 from ray affectionate father and friend [David Bacon ;] the Shep- 
 herd of Israel being my support in that hour, enabling me to 
 resign up wife, children, and, I trust, all into his hands, who 
 knoweth best what is best for us. 
 
 " Thou hast been favoured with a sense of my state in coming 
 to this place, and I seem at some loss how to describe the feelings 
 of my mind. However, this is the sum : it was like going down 
 into the valley and shadow of death, — O ! the buffetings and 
 inward presentations of evil, both night and day, that I experi- 
 enced ; so that I have been ready to say, Surely my soul dwelleth 
 among lions. At times all seems gone, and fear surprises me as 
 in the night ; when former experiences are called in question, and 
 sometimes the apprehension stares me in the face, that, after all 
 I have passed through, deceit may so enter that I shall fail. 
 Such close things have escaped my lips, in two meetings I have 
 attended, that I have in some degree trembled in myself ; and 
 surely I have need, considering what a poor creature I am. - " 
 
 " 8th. — To the meeting at six o'clock, and after sitting a consi- 
 derable time silent, felt a portion of encouragement to hold forth 
 to the sincere seekers and mourners : having first been favoured 
 with a ray of light and encouragement myself. 
 
 "Hth. — Attended meeting here again, which was large, and 
 a remarkable time. O ! what a mercy and favour ; and yet, after- 
 wards the tempter was near, who would whisper this language ; 
 ' W ell done ; thou hast had a large time.'' O, may my soul be 
 
220 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 prostrated ! The widow Usher and daughter Lucy, and other 
 Friends dined with us, and when we sat down to table, I ventured 
 to appear in prayer, which proved a tendering season ; the Lord 
 be praised, and the creature abased. 
 
 " 12th. — A tendering time at breakfast, with a large number 
 of Friends. Two seeking people came to see me ; one of whom 
 went with me into another room, and opened her condition, which 
 was remarkable ; and said she never had felt so comfortable before 
 in the company of any people as this morning with Friends. 
 Attended the select meeting for this place, and I was brought into 
 a state of trembling, soon after sitting down, — remembering the 
 language of the Master, where he said, ' With desire I have 
 desired to eat the passover with you ; one of you has lifted up the 
 heel against me,' &c, and had to express it with more : and now 
 I saw measurably into my exercise when standing at the grave of 
 an individual, whose funeral I attended a few days ago, and which 
 continued upon me for some time after. We could not get for- 
 ward, and so adjourned the meeting, that more might be together 
 next time. 
 
 " 13th. — To meeting, which was large, and a very open, precious 
 time. Sat with the members of the select meeting, and before they 
 got through the business I requested leave to withdraw ; this was 
 a time to be remembered, — close and searching. Feel much relief 
 of mind, for which I know I ought to be, and hope I am, thankful 
 to the Father of living mercies, and willing to move on to the next 
 work which may in wisdom be opened. 
 
 " — Had a solemn time in prayer with a number of Friends, 
 among whom were divers tender minds ; and it was a time to be 
 remembered. A young man who is under convincement came in, 
 with whom I had a tendering time alone. Parted sweetly from 
 my friends at Bristol, and journeyed on to Bath, where we dined, 
 and reached Melksham, twenty-four miles. 
 
 " 16th. — Got to Hungerford, and 17th to Reading where he 
 tarried a few days to rest and wait for the holding of the Quarterly 
 Meeting. 
 
 " ZOtk. — To the Quarterly Meeting ; and soon after sitting 
 down my mind was brought under exercise, and it proved a ten- 
 dering time, but not a long meeting. In that for business, I was 
 favoured in testimony to the humbling of divers, which was 
 acknowledged ; and although things are low, yet there seemed 
 some ground gained against opposers.' 1 
 
 The next day they got to Uxbridge, and on the 22nd to London. 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 221 
 
 CHAPTER XL 
 
 1796. WRITES TO REBECCA JONES RELIGIOUS ENGAGEMENTS IN 
 
 LONDON AND MIDDLESEX EXTRACT FROM ONE OF HIS LETTERS 
 
 LETTERS FROM ANN CROWLEY AND MARY DUDLEY TRAVELS IN 
 
 BUCKINGHAMSHIRE RETURNS TO LONDON. 
 
 In a letter to Eebecca Jones, written from London, he says : — 
 
 " It was pleasant to find thou hadst got through thy arduous 
 task, and to hear from others that thou art cheerful. Thou 
 remainest as a seal upon my spirit, as one whom the Father of 
 mercies was pleased to baptize in an eminent degree, into a sense 
 of my state before leaving home, — ' By one spirit are ye all bap- 
 tized into one body, and made to drink into one spirit ;' and 0 ! 
 that I may be accounted worthy to experience this baptism whilst 
 in this land, and to the end of my pilgrimage. The love which 
 flows in my heart reaches forth towards all the children and servants 
 of our heavenly Father's family in my native land, as well as here. 
 There is a precious remnant preserved here, among all classes, and 
 great has been the love I have felt to the youth in this city, both 
 in meetings and in families. If I may speak as an instrument 
 employed in the Lord's work, I would add, that there is a precious 
 visitation extended to this class. 0 ! the tenderness and gravity 
 I have seen in some who are very young in years ; so much so, 
 that I have been ready to say in the secret of my heart, surely 
 the Lord has begun a work in the minds of the children by the 
 power of his love, which will in time spread to the astonishment, 
 as well as the comfort of many. Indeed, at times, I have almost 
 been induced, in the opening which has presented, to lay my hand 
 upon the heads of some, and tell them what good things are in 
 store for them. On the other hand, I have found thy sisterly 
 advice good, not to be afraid of the rich and great. Dear Rebecca, 
 if my knees have not smitten together, they have at least trembled, 
 and Habakkuk's experience been mine, in degree, when in the 
 families of the great and towering ones, desiring that they might 
 find a resting place in the day of trouble, which may be nearer at 
 
222 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 hand than many careless sons and daughters are aware of. I 
 magnify not the officer, but the office, and that adorable Hand, 
 who commissions and sends forth his servants ; yea, 1 bless his 
 name, in that he is raising up labourers, one here and another 
 there, in this land, who appear hopeful." 
 
 " 27th, Third-day. — To London Quarterly Meeting, which was 
 large, many of the youth being present : dear S. H. opened a door 
 for me, and I had an enlarged time of encouragement to all, but 
 especially to the youth ; and I sat through the rest of the meeting 
 for business, with greater sweetness and composure of mind than I 
 have experienced of late ; I also rejoice with much joy, to behold 
 that weight had increased in this Quarterly Meeting ; the business 
 was conducted comfortably. 
 
 " Tenth Month 5th. — This morning feel more serenity and calm- 
 ness of mind than I have experienced for a length of time ; and 
 now while making this note, am anxiously desirous to cast away 
 that labour and toil which have made my way, at seasons, uncom- 
 fortable. 0 ! that my heart may be lifted up to God in'faith ; and 
 in all things be given up to his blessed will, that so I may be 
 favoured from season to season, not only to know it, but also to 
 do it. Attended Gracechurch Street meeting ; and it was an awful 
 time, at least to me, from these words ; ' As I live, saith the Lord, 
 every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to 
 God. 1 
 
 " Qfh. — To the Monthly Meeting at Tottenham, before which 
 Susannah Horne, spread her prospect of visiting the families within 
 Horselydown Monthly Meeting, and a minute was made setting 
 her at liberty. 
 
 " \0th. — Wait on thy God, 0 my soul ! for the further unfold- 
 ings of his will ; who can turn his dispensations, as a man turneth 
 his water-courses in his field ; and remember, that if the Lord's 
 will is done, it is thy sanctification and redemption, under all 
 trouble, whether outward or hidden. 
 
 « \ \th. — To Horselydown Monthly Meeting, where I opened 
 my concern to visit their families, to the men and women before 
 thev separated ; my friend Susannah Horne following in the same 
 manner ; both were minuted, and Benjamin Simkin appointed to 
 accompany me, and Mary Smith, Anna Kaye, and Elizabeth 
 Hobson, to accompany my female friend. Dear Richard Chester 
 came to this meeting, and expressed his sympathy. In the first 
 meeting I ventured to prostrate myself in supplication. 
 
1796.] 
 
 M KM OIKS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 223 
 
 " 12th. — Very deep were my struggles and conflicts this morn- 
 ing : however, they in some degree passed over before noon ; 
 about which time, I took a walk to Thomas Phillips' and dined, 
 and had a tendering opportunity with the family ; in my walk 
 back, which was a lonely one, my heart was tendered and broken, 
 and a language of sweet encouragement sprang up before I 
 reached home. But ah ! how often do such sensations get dissi- 
 pated. Spent the evening, however, more free from that weight of 
 distress which has long been my humbling companion. 
 
 1,1 16th, First-day. — Felt my mind turned to sit with Friends, 
 at Horselydown ; and it was a pretty comfortable time : in the 
 close mentioned a desire to see their neighbours together in the 
 afternoon. Many came, and I sat most of the time in silence, 
 until divers left the meeting ; but near the close I had to tell them 
 how it was with me. O ! that there was more of a true hun<rerin£* 
 and thirsting after righteousness amongst the people in this city. 
 How little is done when the people's minds are turned outward. 
 In the evening the committee to arrange the families, met with us.' 1 
 
 On the next day they commenced the family visit, and although 
 lie had to labour under much exercise, among many that he 
 visited, yet he, as well as his beloved friend, were favoured to hold 
 forth the language of reproof, encouragement, and instruction, in 
 the demonstration of the spirit, and with power. 
 
 From this period until the 8th of the following month, he con- 
 tinued without much intermission, engaged in this service ; when 
 they concluded "to break off for two days and go to Tottenham." 
 
 " Eleventh Month 9th. — This afternoon I am tried with the 
 prospect of more work, in company with S. H., our prospects 
 being the same respecting visiting the families of Friends at 
 Ratcliff, and she is now returning home to attend the Monthly 
 Meeting, to open her concern and obtain further liberty and en- 
 largement. 
 
 " 10th. — Went to Waltham Abbey very low in mind; indeed, 
 it seemed as if I could hold out little or no encouragement to my 
 friend ; she, however, spread her prospect solidly before her 
 friends, and it was united with. This evening deep thoughtfulness 
 attends me ; 0, that these fears and cares may prove my preser- 
 vation ! by having a tendency to direct the mind to the Holy 
 Helper." 
 
 The next day they resumed their labours within the compass of 
 Horselydown Monthly Meeting, which they finished on the 19th. 
 u 22nd. — To Horselydown week-day meeting, notice having 
 
224 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 been given on First-day for all the members to attend, as well as 
 such as are looking towards our Society : it was a very full meet- 
 ing, and I trust a solid one, affording an opportunity to both of 
 us fully to relieve our minds, and it ended sweetly and comfort- 
 ably. Dined at Anna Kaye's, the kind friend who accompanied 
 us, with Benjamin Simkin, Hagger Allis, and divers others ; after 
 which, I had a solid religious opportunity, wherein these expres- 
 sions impressed my mind ; ' My peace I leave with you,' &c. ; and 
 in my quiet sitting I remembered the last of the same chapter, as 
 I found afterwards on looking for it, which seemed to me applica- 
 ble to this finishing stroke, ' Arise, let us go hence. 1 
 
 " 2ith. — Attended Ratcliff meeting, and after sitting most of 
 the time under close exercise of mind, I was favoured in looking 
 over my steppings of late, with a pretty composed mind, and 
 ventured to bend the knee in prayer for preservation ; and after it, 
 there being a comfortable quiet over the meeting, I opened my 
 prospect before the men and women, of going from house to house 
 amongst them ; and when the men met in their apartment they 
 took it up, and after expressions of unity and sympathy with me 
 it was minuted ; at which time my friend S. H. came in and 
 opened her prospect, in a feeling manner, which was united with, 
 and minuted also. After meeting met the committee appointed 
 to make arrangements for us." 
 
 On the 25th they commenced visiting within the limits of this 
 meeting ; on the 27th, First-day, were at the morning and after- 
 noon meetings, both of which were large, and he remarks, " I 
 humbly hope were to profit, although singular things escaped my 
 lips in the last ; with a prospect that a day of distress is coming 
 on the false teachers in the land, and that the Lord will redeem 
 his sheep out of their hands. On the 29th, were with J. O.'s 
 family, whom I visited some time ago, in company with Simon 
 Bailey ; it was then a singular time, and now also a tendering 
 opportunity. This has been a memorable day, and the opportunity 
 at the widow P.'s, like a seal that we have been rightly directed 
 in labour together. On the 1st of Twelfth Month, being Fifth-day, 
 attended Ratcliff meeting, which was truly a remarkable time. 
 
 " Twelfth Month 4</i, First-day. — To Ratcliff meeting, which 
 was pretty large ; a number of neighbours coming in, and it was 
 an open time. In the afternoon the house was also filled up, in 
 part, with strangers, and I had a very relieving time. A person 
 who has taken down several testimonies in short hand, came here 
 for the purpose ; but was persuaded to desist. 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 225 
 
 u 6th. — To the meeting-house at ten o'clock, and met a number 
 of persons mostly of our Society ; and although, when I arose 
 this morning, and also in the fore part of this sitting, I was low 
 in mind, yet we had a satisfactory time. 
 
 '■'■1th. — This morning our kind host J. H. took us to Totten- 
 ham, where we attended the select meeting; in which S. H. 
 mentioned her prospect of accompanying me into the families of 
 Peel and Westminster Monthly Meetings, and they set her at 
 liberty to open it in the Monthly Meeting to-morrow. 
 
 " 8th. — My mind was humbled, and I ventured to bend the 
 knee in prayer. S. H. came into the men's meeting, accompanied 
 by her mother and Mary Smith ; and in a tender feeling manner 
 opened her concern, which was united with, and my mind is much 
 relieved. 
 
 " 10th. — Spent most of this morning in getting ready to leave 
 town, and after dinner set off with George and Mary Stacey, in 
 a post-chaise for Uxbridge ; the chaise broke down with us by the 
 way, which did not detain us long, and about four o'clock we 
 arrived at our friend Thomas Hull's, and met a kind reception. 
 
 " Wth, First-day. — Passed the meeting through in silence and 
 much exercise. 
 
 " 12th. — O! for more purity of heart in God's sight; that I 
 may see my way, and be favoured with armour to resist the wicked 
 one. Surely he has power to sift me as he did Peter. O Lord 
 forgive, empty me, and wash and sanctify me for thy work. 
 
 " \Sth. — Awoke in distress ; but since breakfast I feel a little 
 more easy. O ! that condescending love may vouchsafe to wash 
 my feet, and shoe me again with the preparation of the gospel for 
 his work and service ; and if I am not abased enough, make me 
 so. I dread, I fear, knowing the slippery places there are to 
 walk through : ' cleanse thou me from secret faults, let them not 
 have dominion over me.' " 
 
 The following is taken from a letter addressed to him by his 
 beloved friend Rebecca Jones, dated Philadelphia, Tenth Month 
 26th, 1796. 
 
 " Dear Thomas, 
 " Thy few lines of the Seventh Month, dictated in brotherly 
 regard and sympathy, came duly to hand, and like thy personal 
 visits formerly, had a consoling effect, — my mind being often low 
 and depressed, yet not without a degree of humble trust in the 
 goodness and mercy of an Almighty helper, who hath done great 
 
 Q 
 
226 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1796. 
 
 things for me — holy and reverend is his name, saith my soul. I 
 rejoice in believing that the same good hand is with thee, and will 
 be with thee during thy arduous journey ; and when it is accom- 
 plished, if I am in the body, I shall be truly glad in thy return 
 to thy dear family and native country, with sheaves of enrich- 
 ing peace. This will also, I trust, be granted to all my fellow- 
 labourers from America, now in Europe, some of whom I hear 
 are doing valiantly. You were all brought livingly into my view 
 about two weeks ago, under the influence of the Spirit of suppli- 
 cation in our North meeting ; when a living hope was raised, that 
 the Shepherd of Israel, who put forth, will go before, and as he 
 is listened to and faithfully followed, will give eternal life, and 
 none shall be able to pluck out of his holy hand." 
 
 " \5th. — In a poor and stripped condition I went to the week-day 
 meeting in this place ; not knowing but that I should pass it in 
 silent sorrow and mourning, and so through the remainder of the 
 day. My spirit was bowed in secret humble supplication during 
 most of the meeting, and frequently thought I should have to go 
 down on my knees, but the exercise lessened, and such a sweet 
 calm covered me towards the last, accompanied with a humble hope 
 that mercy was extended to me, that my soul was thankful for 
 this ray of light and love once more vouchsafed, and withal felt 
 a gentle pressure to stand up with a few lively expressions, which 
 I delivered, respecting silent worship and sympathy one with 
 another under it. After I sat down, my companion M. S. appeared 
 in supplication, and the meeting closed comfortably, I trust to 
 more than myself." 
 
 From Uxbridge he went to Staines, to attend the Monthly 
 Meeting ; and while there, he wrote a letter, from which the 
 following is extracted, viz : 
 
 Staines, Twelfth Month \6th, 1796. 
 " Although I parted from thee and left thy father's comfortable 
 habitation with seeming cheerfulness, yet, I seem as if I can 
 hardly forbear describing in some degree the state I have been in 
 since. I thought I had seen an opening to leave London and 
 spend some time at Uxbridge, Staines, &c, and so pushed oft' in 
 a very stripped condition indeed ; Gr. Stacey and dear M. accom- 
 panied me to Uxbridge. But such a day as last Fiist-day was, 
 I have not often experienced ; nay, I know not that at any time 
 in this land, I have had a greater plunge. I have not language at 
 
1796.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCA.TTERGOOD. 
 
 227 
 
 present to set forth, and indeed, it would not be profitable to 
 endeavour to express, the deep wading of my poor oppressed soul ; 
 and in this scene I have passed through, I even feared I had not 
 helped thee forward in all respects on thy journey, so thou 
 may see what a poor prop I am ; lean not to it any further than 
 thy Master gives liberty. I had not the least opening, either in 
 the meeting or in any family — we came to this place to the Monthly 
 Meeting, and here I was also emptied." 
 
 " 1 8th, First-day. — To the morning and afternoon meetings at 
 Staines, which were seasons of close thoughtfulness. I had a small 
 communication near the close of the first, and was shut up in the 
 last. Drank tea at Thomas Finch's, and then stepped in to see 
 Thomas Ashby's weakly wife, and here I had to remember freshly 
 my own tried state when in the chamber of a declining precious 
 companion, and the evidence I was favoured with in that day of 
 her being accepted of her God — and also had to mention it. 
 
 " 19th. — Spent this morning pretty much in reading, and at 
 three o'clock M. Stacey and I set off in the coach, and got to their 
 house about seven o'clock. 
 
 "2lst. — To Peel Monthly Meeting, in which I was silently 
 shut up : opened a prospect of visiting them in their families, and 
 my friend S. H. also came into the men's meeting and laid a like 
 concern before them : both were united with and minuted, and 
 John Bevans appointed to accompany me : but a low dull time 
 to me. 
 
 " 22nd. — A very conflicting night, wherein jealousy, doubts 
 and fears were my companions. I have thought of late that I 
 should be most miserable indeed, if left to myself, and forsaken of 
 my God, — if the potter should lay aside the lump of clay. O ! for 
 more watchfulness, reverence and becoming fear. Will it not be 
 better to lay down my life than live to dishonour that truth which 
 I have been favoured at seasons to espouse and plead for? O! the 
 deceitfulness of the heart of man. Lord have mercy, and help me 
 through all that is yet to be endured. That which I see not teach 
 thou me ; and if I have done iniquity, strength is only with thee 
 to preserve from doing more. I hope my soul is humbled this 
 morning. To meeting, and was favoured to get into a quiet and 
 resigned state, which indeed is a mercy. 
 
 " 25th, First-day. — It has been a very cold snowy time of late, 
 the thermometer this morninir down to three decrees. Thanks to 
 the Father and fountain of mercy, my mind feels more cheered 
 
228 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 and comforted than for a long time. 0 ! that it may be a day of 
 renewal of my espousals, and may it please my good Master to 
 strengthen me for further labour, if it be his will, that so my task 
 in this land may be accomplished to my own peace. Why am I 
 so much shut up? Are there not some active minds that may be 
 profited by me as a sign to look at 1 Attended morning and after- 
 noon meetings, and in the first felt enlargement in testimony, and 
 in the afternoon was quiet and comfortable. 
 
 " 26th. — To the select Quarterly Meeting, and next day to the 
 Quarterly Meeting for business, and was once more favoured with 
 an open time in the meeting for worship, and found an opportu- 
 nity to relieve my mind ; also in the meeting for business, respect- 
 ing tithes, &c. Dined at home, and after it had an open oppor- 
 tunity with a number of Friends, among whom was P. B., a dear 
 young woman in a tender state of mind. Went to the adjourn- 
 ment, and here again relieved my mind. 
 
 " 28th. — To Peel meeting, in a low condition, accompanied by 
 R. Smith, where I met my beloved friend andvfellow-helper 
 S. Horne. I was somewhat relieved by prostration- in prayer : 
 dined at John Bevans 1 , at whose house we have#taken up our 
 quarters ; and in the afternoon began the family visit, accompanied 
 by John Bevans and Mary Stacey. 
 
 " 30//j. — Had an open time in the meeting at Clerkenwell school, 
 both amongst those met, and with the scholars : dined at the 
 school, and after it had a precious opportunity with the familv, 
 tutors and servants, without the children ; after which visited the 
 old people, both men and women, in the other house, and had a 
 pretty satisfactory time ; and finding my companion's mind was 
 not clear respecting the children, we collected them toget her and had 
 a good time; and although one or two families were laid out, I felt so 
 spent that I was most easy to wind up for the evening, and I hope 
 the day's work will prove encouraging to them and us. 
 
 " First Month 1st, 1797, First-day. — Opens another year, and 
 very likely further trials may come upon me. Went to meetino- 
 and was shut up in silence. Near the close of the afternoon 
 meeting very close things escaped my lips, and such was the weight 
 and concern that rested on me after returning home, that I could 
 say but little, nor be cheerful in the midst of a large company • 
 and at six o'clock felt most easy to visit a family that was laid out 
 for us, which was a memorable time. 
 
 " 3rd. — After dinner set off in a post-chaise to Uxbrid^e, with 
 a view of attending the burial of Thomas Ashby's wife, at Staines, 
 
1797.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 229 
 
 on Fifth-day next : arrived at Samuel Hull's before night, and 
 felt a liberty to encourage Friends to invite their neighbours. 
 Spent the evening at T. Hull's, pretty calm and resigned, except 
 one little miss, for which I was humbled after lying down. 0 ! 
 how watchful a minister, a pastor, should be in all his conduct. 
 
 " 4?th. — To meeting, at which a considerable number were col- 
 lected : Elizabeth Bevington, who is out on a visit to the meet- 
 ings in Middlesex, was there and appeared ; but my mind was 
 closed up again in silent conflict. O ! what shall be done for the 
 people in this land in places, and when will the book of prophecy 
 be opened, and their hearts also. After dinner took post-chaise 
 and went to Staines. 
 
 " 5th. — To meeting, to which the bodv was brought, and it was 
 a crowded meeting, but a very low time to me ; I laboured in 
 weakness, but to little relief : doubting and fears very much pre- 
 vailed in my mind, whether I was in my place. After dinner we 
 had a sitting with a large company, wherein my companion 
 appeared in prayer, and E. B. in testimony ; I felt like a book 
 sealed in this opportunity, but some time after, the company being 
 more thinned, my mind was suddenly brought under exercise, and 
 I felt some ease by expression, and again after tea, felt some 
 enlargement in testimony. 
 
 " 8t/i, First-day. — Felt poor, and went so to Peel meeting and 
 sat it through in silence. In the afternoon meeting was also shut 
 up in silence, viewing my steps, when a total stop appeared 
 necessary ; and my mind turned toward the Monthly Meeting at 
 Westminster next Fifth-day, to see if way will open to make a 
 beginning in that quarter. From the first, both that meeting and 
 this seemed pretty much as one, so far as regarded my concern ; 
 so I felt a liberty to tell my companions my thoughts, and also the 
 committee in waiting to lay out more families, that the cloud 
 rested on the tabernacle, and it was safest to stand still. Struggled 
 along through the evening nearly as well as I knew how. This 
 evening a portion of Scripture was read, which is a practice I 
 unite with. 
 
 " 9^A, Second-day. — To morning meeting, and sat it pretty 
 quietly : went afterwards with my companion and paid a sweet 
 visit to S. R., her sister Sarah and sister-in-law. After it, stopped 
 a little while with two goodly servant-maids, and my mind lias 
 not been so refreshed for some time past, as it was under this roof. 
 Spent the afternoon and evening more free from depression, and 
 before going to bed, after the eldest daughter had road a chapter 
 
230 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 in the Bible, we had a sitting, in which we were both favoured to 
 hand out suitable counsel. 
 
 " l()th, Third-day. — Some little opening on my bed, into a 
 further dispensation, I hope of more light and liberty : but stop — 
 why such anxiety ? Are not these dark and cloudy seasons pro- 
 fitable I And canst thou not keep the faith, and also the patience, 
 0 my tossed soul ? 0 ! that this may be mercifully granted to 
 poor unworthy me, has been the language of my heart this morn- 
 ing ; and may I be favoured to persevere through all ; and may 
 the Lord, in the riches of his love, be pleased to grant me the 
 blessing of preservation, that I faint not; — then I know that all 
 trials will work together for good in the end. Here we are stand- 
 ing, I hope as servants in waiting ; no way opening into any 
 family, and I am comforted in the remembrance of these expres- 
 sions ; ' Let your conversation be without covetousness, and be 
 content with such things as ye have ; for he hath said, I will 
 never leave thee nor forsake thee ; so that we may boldly say, 
 the Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do 
 unto me.' 
 
 " 12th. — To Westminster Monthly Meeting, where we found 
 William Rickman : H. F. appeared in a few words in suppli- 
 cation, and my companion S. Horne immediately after her — and 
 then I had an open good time in testimony. We laid our pros- 
 pect of visiting them in their families, together with M. Stacey, 
 before the meeting, which was united with, and Josiah Messerand 
 Lydia Forster named to accompany us. Found letters from my 
 dear Sarah and others, and my spirit is bowed and humbled on 
 looking towards home, and begs for faith, patience and preser- 
 vation. 0 ! my dear wife, how has the prayer of my heart gone 
 forth to the Father and Fountain of all our mercies on thy account, 
 that he may be thy Husband, thy Preserver, and thy Redeemer. 
 This day commenced visiting families. 
 
 " 15th, First-day. — To Westminster meeting, and was favoured 
 with an open time of enlargement in testimony, much to the relief of 
 my own mind. Dined at G. Stacey \s, and accompanied by him, with 
 my companion S. Horne, went to the Park meeting, to which the 
 body of Francis Merrick was brought ; a Friend whom we visited 
 in the course of our engagement in that meeting. This was a 
 remarkable meeting to me, having to reason with the auditory 
 concerning righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come; — ■ 
 my mind was brought low and humbled after it. 
 
 " 22nd, First-day. — Went to Westminister meeting under feel- 
 
1797.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 231 
 
 ings of poverty ; and to my admiration was strengthened to labour, 
 both morning and afternoon, largely and relievingly, and after- 
 wards in an opportunity with F. S."s large family, where we had 
 a precious time, so that I thought after getting home, it was little 
 short of a miracle of mercy extended to me this day. Laid down 
 peaceful and quiet, and thought I might soon retire into a com- 
 fortable sleep ; but in a little time it departed from me. Thoughts 
 of an humbling and trying nature were my companions, but I trust 
 my will was reduced and resigned to the will of Him who com- 
 missioned me to come into this land ; and has strengthened me to 
 labour from time to time in it. 0 ! the close and trying prospects 
 that open, and yet I have no reason to murmur or repine ; for if 
 the Lord my heavenly Master does but go with me in them, I 
 hope all will be well. 
 
 " Second Month 2nd. — A degree of comfort on waking this 
 morning in looking forward to future service, with respect to which, 
 I have of late been much blinded. A little reviving hope, how- 
 ever, has sprung up, that way will be made, and the prayer, I 
 trust the upright prayer, of my heart has been for the blessing of 
 preservation. I covet not riches, nor honour, nor applause, but 
 the guidance of the Good Spirit until the end come. As some of 
 our friends had been talking of attending RatclifF week-day meet- 
 ing, I felt an openness in my mind to go and sit with them : pro- 
 ceeding in the family visit in this place seems sealed up as yet. 
 I went accordingly to meeting, and had a language of encourage- 
 ment to hold out to those who are mourners like myself." 
 
 Charterhouse Square, Second Month 5th, 1797. 
 " Dear Friend, 
 " Thy acceptable letter, enclosing one from Samuel Couch, came 
 to hand a few day3 ago, and although long on the way, was yet 
 seasonable, though indeed when 1 read it, I seemed hardly to have a 
 capacity afforded fully to understand it. My experience in this land 
 has often been, and continues to be, that of being stripped and bap- 
 tized ; and yet I hope there remain so much honesty and upright- 
 ness in my poor and oft-wading mind, that I dare not disbelieve, 
 that although the Lord may be pleased, (for wise purposes some- 
 times unknown, but to be waited on to see the end), to feed his 
 messengers with the bread of adversity, and give them the waters 
 of affliction to drink, yet as saith the prophet, ' thine eye shall see 
 thy teacher. 1 O ! blessed teaching has this been to me in days 
 past, and surely I could not have done, and cannot do yet, without 
 
232 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS. SO ATTERGOOD . 
 
 [1797. 
 
 it. Thou hast a little encouraged me by this language : ' Shall 
 the exercised servants, who are baptized into the state and condi- 
 tion of the people, conclude it is of no avail ? Necessary is it to 
 guard against the grand discourager of all good, and his subtle 
 reasonings : the work that he would mar is often in as prosperous 
 a way, when hidden from our eye ; so that there is encouragement 
 to endeavour, in simplicity and godly sincerity, to break up the 
 fallow ground, leaving the increase thereof to the great and good 
 Husbandman. From the faithful labourer sheaves of peace will 
 not be withheld.' Well, my beloved sympathizing friend, in read- 
 ing these lines over, and now again on penning them, I am willing 
 to say, Go on, 0 my soul ! to the end of thy journey here, and 
 beg assistance to endure, through all states, what thy wise and 
 gracious Master may appoint. Ah ! here's the thing ; when I am 
 favoured to see that my various baptisms are of his appointment, 
 then I do know that his will ever proved my sanctification. But 
 again, what is to be done when we are shut up in a close prison-house, 
 and can hardly see any light through the grates ? I write to one 
 who knows that his brethren in the ministry go down in this day 
 into the prison-house, — surely then, ' the captive exile hasteneth, 
 that he may be loosed, and that he should not die in the pit, nor 
 that his bread should fail.' No mortal, dear Henry, knows what 
 I have passed through since putting my feet on the British shore ; 
 yea, in ray going off from home, and in the passage over the 
 waters : the thought of it at times humbles my mind. I suppose 
 I should not have written after this manner to thee at some other 
 times, but am apt to do it as I feel. 
 
 " I have gone through most or all of the families of Friends in 
 this city, except in one Monthly Meeting. The wind has taken 
 me ahead and I cannot move, and am patiently (at least 1 hope 
 so,) waiting for it to come fair for a movement. What in the 
 ordering of Divine Providence may be my lot, when this arduous 
 business is got through with, is at present pretty much hid ; 
 though I have not been without glimmerings in more favoured 
 seasons : did I say favoured — are they not all so ? 0 yes !" 
 
 " 5th, First-day. — I went to meeting poor, but was favoured 
 with a relieving time, though very closely exercised with regard 
 to divers states. In the afternoon meeting I was also much en- 
 larged to the seekers present. In the evening had several precious 
 religious opportunities. Heard after morning meeting, that dear 
 old John Hill died this day. Precious soul, may mine inherit 
 
1797.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 233 
 
 the same as thine, when Divine Goodness may be pleased to end 
 my day. I loved thee much in this world of trials and conflicts. 
 
 " 6th. — Began our family visit again, and on the 20th finished 
 this service." 
 
 Having taken a very heavy cold a short time before they finished 
 the visit, he was confined to the house for several days from the 
 effects of it. On the 13th of the Third Month, in writing to his 
 son, he says ; " I do not remember to have had a heavier cold, or 
 more pain in my head and face, since I have been in England. I 
 was very carefully nursed at my friend John Bevans 1 , Charter- 
 house Square, London ; not only by his wife and daughters, but 
 by my valued companion, who, though we had gone through our 
 visit to that meeting, was not easy to leave me ; and when I was 
 able to go out, her mother and sister came for me and brought me to 
 their quiet and hospitable habitation in White Hart Lane, Totten- 
 ham; wherel have been mostly since. laccount it afavourthat I am 
 here in a state of retirement : I have got so used to this kind family, 
 and they to me, my strippings and baptisms, that when I am here 
 I feel under no bonds. To give a little idea of my present state, 
 I have compared myself to a vessel that has been tossed in a voyage 
 at sea, and is unloaded, and repairs found necessary to be done, 
 even to the keel ; and if I am again counted worthy to be equipped 
 and sent off on another embassy, it will be of the Lord's mercy. 
 I might enlarge on the subject, but am willing to leave it now, 
 and when further openings of duty present, I hope with cheerful- 
 ness to be enabled to say, Here am I, send me." 
 
 In reference to his outward affairs, of which his son had the 
 management, he says ; " Dear David Sands told me once in New 
 England, that what we do not gain in pence, we may gain in ex- 
 perience. May it be so with you, and may you be favoured to get 
 on irreproachably. It is a notable saying of the apostle that 
 ' They that will be rich fall into divers temptations and a snare,' 
 &c. : and I fear now, whilst writing, that some of the young mer- 
 chants amongst you, who dare venture to trade above what they 
 have of their own, and to a large amount too, will be left to smart 
 deeply when it may be too late. O ! how sweet is a little of one's 
 own, with content. I never coveted to be rich and great in this 
 world, neither do I covet it for thee, my son ; and I comfortingly 
 hope thou believes me, and art measurably convinced in thyself 
 of that way in which thou shouldest go. May the Lord, my blessed 
 Helper, strengthen, stablish, and more and more settle thee on tlie 
 living foundation, to my rejoicing, and to the rejoicing of his church 
 and people." 
 
234 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATT ERGOOD . 
 
 [1797. 
 
 In a letter of the same date, addressed to his much loved friend 
 Rebecca Jones, he says: 
 
 " Thy acceptable letter came to hand the 1 3th of the First 
 Month, just as I was entering into a family visit within West- 
 minster quarter, accompanied by Mary Stacey and Susannah 
 Horne ; since which, I have gone through those of the Peel, which 
 finishes the families of London, making between five and six hun- 
 dred sittings; and now after this arduous labour, I feel myself a poor 
 unprofitable servant. Frequently have I remembered thy counsel, 
 not to be afraid of the rich and jrreat ; and I trust, through mar- 
 vellous condescending help, this has been my experience ; and very 
 close things have escaped my lips, sometimes to my own astonish- 
 ment, and I suppose to that of others; and I have thought, that for 
 some of those things, Satan the adversary has envied my poor wad- 
 ing soul, and by various stratagems, siftings and buffetings, (for in- 
 deed he has been permitted to be a sore thorn in my flesh,) has en- 
 deavoured to draw me down to destruction. 0 ! my dear sister, I 
 cannot describe on paper, where I have been in this respect. I have 
 been examining and re-examining, and though weakness and in- 
 firmity are mine, yet I trust I can say, I have not wickedly departed 
 from the lawand the testimony; and have been led to beg that every 
 corner of my deceitful heart might be searched. Well, it has been so, 
 and a degree of sweetness springs out of these bitters. Hast thou ex- 
 perienced such a state as this, when abroad in this land, when all 
 seemed gone, and thou could lay hold on nothing ? when heaven 
 and earth were wrapt up as a scroll, and thou hadst again to wait 
 for the creation of a new heaven ! O ! the unsearchable wisdom 
 of the Lord, whose ways are past finding out. If this has been 
 thy experience at anytime, and surely methinksit has, then canst 
 thou sympathize with me : and O ! that thou may be favoured 
 still to pray to the Helper of Israel, that the feet of thy poor feeble 
 
 friend and brother may not slide I 
 
 do not write murmuringly, but I hope with a mind so far devoted, 
 that when I can be favoured to hear the language, ' whom shall we 
 send, and who will go for us? 1 I can say, 'Here am I, Lord, send 
 me.' O ! may my soul be preserved here, until the latest period of 
 my life ; ever sensible that they who run, and the Lord sends not, 
 cannot profit the great cause. I have frequently visited dear 
 Thomas Phillips in his illness, who departed this morning about 
 four o'clock. He has been a deeply sympathizing elder to me ; 
 and amongst other precious things he dropped, said that he hoped 
 the Lord would carry me through all my trials in this land ; and 
 
1797.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 235 
 
 I think it was yesterday, after I left him, he had me called back, 
 and said, ' Give my love to Friends in America; though I do not 
 personally know them, I sympathize with them in their late 
 troubles. 1 Some days before, while sitting by him, he said with 
 tenderness, ' It is a low time amongst us : things are trying, but 
 there is a better day ahead for the young people. What a com- 
 fortable thing to die in this faith — I have loved the truth and 
 good Friends, 1 &c. 
 
 " Tell my dear absent family, that my prayers have been, at 
 seasons, put up for them, when so favoured, that that blessing 
 which makes truly rich, and which must be left to an all-wise 
 Providence to dispense, when and how he pleases, may be their 
 happy experience. 11 
 
 " Third Month 31s*.— Attended the burial of Thomas Hull, at 
 Uxbridge : we had a very crowded meeting, and in it I felt some 
 enlargement to speak to the people. Sarah Harrison was here also, 
 and appeared after me. Dined at the house of the deceased, and 
 afterwards my companion, and M. Stacey and I had an oppor- 
 tunity of relieving our minds amongst the relations. I have not 
 been opened in any public meeting or opportunity, except a few 
 words, since the 20th of last month, which closed our family visit. 
 
 " Fourth Month 1st. — Returned to London after an early dinner, 
 and got there in good time. 
 
 " 2nd, First-day. — Went to Gracechurch Street meeting, and 
 O ! what a close time it was in pleading with the loose professors ; 
 amongst other things that arose in my mind, was this, to advise 
 tbem to read, and let their children read also, that excellent epistle 
 of Stephen Crisp's, respecting the present and succeeding times, 
 and also the trembling prophet Habakkuk ; and I felt some case 
 and relief. Went to meeting in the afternoon, I trust, with a 
 dedicated heart; and though there appeared to be many strangers 
 there, all was sealed up. I could do nothing; but stopped after 
 meeting and encouraged one of this number, who kept his seat, and 
 told me he was expecting something. I commended him to the 
 grace of God for his teacher. 
 
 "Fifth Month 3rd.— Spent the time between the 3rd of Fourth 
 Month and tins period at London, Newington, &c, in a low, exer- 
 cised state; and it is this day five months, if I remember right, since 
 the date of the last letter from my wife ; of whom I have thought 
 with much anxiety and solicitude: it is not unlikely tbat my letters 
 may have miscarried, as we learn the American vessels of late 
 
236 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 are taken. This morning felt my spirit much oppressed ; took a 
 lonely, solitary walk into the fields, and there poured out my sighs 
 and tears to the Father and Fountain of my mercies; I remem- 
 bered his gracious dealings with me when in the wilderness of 
 Carolina and Georgia, and how often, when riding in lonely places 
 on the road, London was set before me, and that I was to hasten 
 to prepare for the voyage to this place. But 0 ! the strappings of 
 favour I have experienced since being in this land ! The buffetings 
 of Satan ; the thorn in the flesh — the fears, lest I have slipped in 
 some degree ; yea, that I have not at all times stepped aright. 
 My soul was poured out in prayer for mercy and forgiveness, and 
 for patience to endure the singular trials I have to encounter, and 
 I was favoured with a secret, soul-sustaining hope, that although 
 I have long had, and it may yet be continued, to walk through the 
 valley and shadow of death, that my most merciful Lord will give 
 me to experience a table spread in the presence of my enemies ; 
 and that the bitter cup will be sweetened, so far as to enable me 
 yet to drink thereof to some profit. I humbly hope I can make 
 this appeal unto him ; ' Thou knowest I neither seek nor desire 
 either outward or inward great riches, but of thy appointment, and 
 to be led in a plain path, because of mine enemies ; therefore, O 
 Lord ! sanctify the present dispensation, and forgive all my secret 
 faults.' 
 
 " Sixth Month 9th. — No settled and fixed prospect since finishing 
 the family visit in Peel Monthly Meeting, which is now between 
 three and four months ; and since the Yearly Meeting was over, my 
 mind has been very deeply exercised and tried. Some little open- 
 ing towards a movement has presented, but it lasted not long, and 
 has closed up, and now my condition, in a state of blindness, is 
 very trying to the mans part. Sometimes for a little moment 
 there has been such resignation, faith and patience experienced, as 
 have hushed all ; and again, when I consider the distance I am 
 from home, and how long I have been away, and no clear opening 
 to move out of the neighbourhood of London, — fears and doubtings 
 arising, as to what man may think or say of me. I have slidden 
 into a low spot. O ! that I was more steady, and bore up under 
 all my weights more uprightly ! 0 my soul ! banish as much as 
 possible a murmuring spirit. 
 
 " \ \th, First-day. — Arose in a low state this morning: David 
 Sands set off soon after breakfast, accompanied by Joseph Smith, 
 to Wandsworth meeting, and requested I would come to him in 
 the afternoon, he having some thoughts of a public meeting in that 
 
1797.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOl). 
 
 237 
 
 neighbourhood. After he was gone I took courage and went to 
 Ratcliff, accompanied by Thomas Richardson, and through the 
 renewed extension of Divine love, had an open, comfortable time : 
 some strangers came in, and one man appeared much affected. 
 About three o'clock Truman Harford and I started for Wands- 
 worth, and found a meeting appointed at five o'clock ; it was 
 pretty largely attended, and I was silent. 
 
 " \1th. — T. H. took me to London in his chaise, to attend the 
 select meeting, where William Savery mentioned his distress at 
 finding one of his testimonies was published by a man, who for 
 some time has been employed in taking down what has been 
 delivered in our meetings, which does notmeetwithour approbation." 
 
 The following extract is from a letter to him, dated Uxbridge, 
 Sixth Month 10th, 1797, written by Ann Crowley, viz: 
 
 " I trust my beloved friend will excuse me for troubling him 
 with a few lines, which I believe I should not have done, but from 
 an apprehension that liberty is felt to communicate a little of my 
 tried situation, to one who often travels in the deeps, and is 
 thereby qualified to administer a word of counsel to those who 
 may have had less experience. Such has been the stripped state 
 of my mind for a long season, that I have been tempted to let go 
 my confidence, and conclude it was impossible to hold on my way, 
 and that I must inevitably fall by the hand of my enemy. At 
 other times, am ready to think that I have been under a delusion, 
 and have not yet distinguished the voice of the true Shepherd ; 
 and thus, as well as with various other discoura<nne: circum- 
 stances, has my faith been tried, until it is reduced to a very 
 low ebb. The language formerly expressed by one, who no doubt 
 felt his lonely situation, often seems applicable to me, ' I am like 
 a pelican of the wilderness — I am like an owl of the desert; I 
 watch, and am as a sparrow alone on the house-top.' None seems 
 to fathom the exercise of my tribulated soul, nor knows the bitter- 
 ness of my heart : yet it is possible this may all be ordered in 
 best wisdom, and sometimes I am ready to hope it is ; for if these 
 trials are rightly abode under, I have little doubt but they will 
 tend to drive the soul home to that safe place of shelter, which I 
 bel ieve has been found by many to be a secure hiding-place, even 
 Irom the greatest storms. Here our dependence becomes more 
 solidly fixed on that all-sufficient Arm of help, which is able to 
 support in the needful time; when, perhaps, if greater opportunity 
 was afforded, I might be induced, from a hope of getting relief, 
 improperly to disclose the painful situation of my mind, and seek 
 
238 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 for inferior help, when nothing short of that Divine consolation, 
 which comes from the Fountain of inexhaustible good, immediately 
 handed to my soul, might be permitted to prove sufficient to revive 
 the mind in hope. Thus I am enabled, at seasons, to endeavour 
 to reconcile my mind to my tried allotment. I sincerely wish, 
 my dear friend, to be preserved from saying anything which may 
 increase my own poverty, or give uneasiness to thy feeling mind, 
 and if I have done so, 1 am quite willing to stand reproved, and 
 desire thy entire freedom herein. I frequently wished, during my 
 late stay in London, to spend a little time in thy instructive com- 
 pany ; but feeling myself unworthy of the conversation and society 
 of those whom I so greatly preferred in the truth to myself, I had 
 not courage to seek it, but retired much alone, bemoaning my own 
 weakness and poverty, concluding that none knew how it fared 
 with me. When I heard some of my beloved friends expressing 
 the overshadowing of Divine good which was so largely to be felt 
 in some of our gatherings, and the sense of gratitude which dwelt 
 on their minds for such favours, my soul was introduced into a 
 state of lamentation, fearing that my heart was become obdurate, 
 because 1 could not sensibly partake of that heavenly enjoyment 
 and soul-sustaining virtue which many others appeared to share, 
 and whereby the soul is kept alive unto God. But through all, 
 I am ready, at seasons, to lay hold on the hope, that a state of 
 poverty and desertion is seen to be most profitable for me, and that 
 these proving seasons are not always intended as a rod of chastise- 
 ment. I think I can, at times, feelingly breathe this language ; 
 ' Search me, 0 Lord ! and try me and know my way, and if there 
 be anything in me which prevents thy great work from going 
 forward in my heart, do thou it away : let not thine hand spare, 
 nor thine eye pity, until thou hast made me what thou wouldest 
 have me to be.' 
 
 "It is not my intention, by thus addressing my endeared friend, 
 to be pouring out the language of complaint, for I am truly sen- 
 sible that I have been made partaker of many more favours than 
 my little dedication merits ; but being fully convinced that thou 
 art one of those who have passed through many tribulations, and 
 whose baptisms have been of a fiery nature, I thought I felt some- 
 thing more than a bare liberty to unbosom a little to thee the 
 tried state of my mind, believing that deep can utter unto deep, and 
 that it is those only who have trodden the same suffering path, 
 who can availingly sympathize with minds buried in suffering and 
 death. 
 
1797.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEHGOOD. 
 
 239 
 
 " It may seem presuming in me, whose experience in Divine 
 mysteries is so small, to say that my beloved friend has often 
 been brought near in sympathetic remembrance, and according to 
 my small measure I have felt strong desires that thou mayst 
 experience a daily increase of that faith and patience, which 
 enabled many of our ancient worthies to bear the burden in the 
 heat of the day. When favoured to look a little beyond the 
 present day of suffering, and call to mind that at the end of the 
 race a crown immortal is given to all the faithful dedicated ser- 
 vants in the Father's family, it animates us to press through the 
 many crowds of difficulties which arise in the way." 
 
 " 20th. — David Sands and I had some instructive conversation 
 together respecting several matters, and hope I have gained some- 
 thing by it. Returned to my chamber from a secret impression on 
 my mind, in order to prostrate myself at the footstool of my 
 gracious Lord and Master, and felt some relief. 0 ! how precious 
 is one little ray of light and life dispensed, and a living hope 
 revived, which enables me to say, Lord I desire to wait thy time for 
 enlargement. Ah ! it is good to be content, even to be shut up 
 as in prison, and not to cast away confidence then, though the 
 doors may appear to be fast secured. No way opens clearly, either 
 to go home to my family and friends, or to any place in this nation; 
 and what can I do but endeavour after resignation. So be it — 
 stand fast, 0 my soul, and yet look up unto thy only sure Helper, 
 who has forgiven thee much, and has done much for thee in past 
 days, and even in this land, in keeping thee from sinking in the 
 hour of trial. 
 
 " 22nd. — To Ratcliff Monthly Meeting with Edward Janson, 
 Phebe Speakman, and Martha Home, where we met Mary 
 Watson and sister. Dined at T. Harford's, and a singular oppor- 
 tunity occurred, in which I thought Phebe Speakman was much 
 favoured to speak to the state of the heads of this family ; some- 
 thing like giving in my witness appeared to be my duty, and 
 M. Watson concluded the opportunity sweetly, I thought, in 
 prayer. 
 
 " 28th. — Went with Sarah Harrison to Gracechurch Street 
 meeting, where i poured out my tears, and after it prostrated 
 myself in prayer. Felt a willingness to go with S. Harrison as 
 far as Uxbridge, and leave London in such a way as not to return, 
 if way should open."" 
 
 The following is taken from a letter addressed to him by his 
 
240 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 beloved friend Mary Dudley, dated Bristol, Sixth Month 23rd, 
 1797. 
 
 " Thy farewell salutation, handed me on the evening previous 
 to my leaving London, was truly cordial to my mind. I was con- 
 tent, and I may say thankful, in being remembered by thee, as 
 thou hast been by me, in a nearly uniting manner ; and several 
 times have I wished to salute thee as an endeared brother in the 
 fellowship and tribulations of the gospel. This is a track in which 
 from feeling sympathy, I do believe thy exercised spirit moves, 
 and through which, perhaps, in like degree, many are now passing, 
 although each one may conclude his own burden enough. I 
 remember while writing, the language, ' He trod the wine-press 
 alone, and of the people there was none with him, -1 and believe 
 there may be, in measure, a similar experience in the line of 
 painful exercise, although in the present superficial state of things 
 such may appear to have neither form nor comeliness, like their 
 blessed Master. Well, my dear friend, ' Thou God seest me,' is 
 a precious appeal, and what an abundant mercy that he peculiarly 
 regards and owns such as are resigned thus to be baptized, and 
 with heartfelt submission drink the cup of suffering : these will 
 not only know him, their suffering Lord, and the fellowship of his 
 sufferings, being made conformable to his death, but will also 
 assuredly experience the power of his resurrection, and after these 
 baptisms unto death, feel an increase of spiritual life. But why 
 should my pen run on thus, as though such a poor creature as I 
 am, could administer any relief or encouragement to thy tried 
 mind, which has been so abundantly instructed from on high, for 
 the sake of others, so that I have often said, thou needest not to be 
 ashamed. He who, by His own Divine power, hath caused thee 
 hitherto to bring forth these things out of thy treasury, designs 
 not now to shut up any longer than may qualify for increasing 
 faithfulness in his work ; and though I can often scarcely discern 
 my own way one step, I have so much faith respecting thy way 
 clearing up, that I was ready to say, that perhaps even now the 
 renewings of the heavenly commission await thee ; and though I 
 feelingly observed the declension of thy bodily strength, surely the 
 great Healer of breaches, can do all in this respect, as thou and I, 
 my dear friend, have had cause often to acknowledge." 
 
 "30th. — Went with Phebe Speakman and Ann Crowley to a 
 little meeting at Rickmansworth, eight miles from Uxbridge, held 
 in the parlour of Emmet Skidmore, in which dear Ann was 
 
1797.1 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 241 
 
 drawn forth in an extraordinary manner; and returned back in 
 the evening to Uxbridge. 
 
 '■'■Seventh Month 3rd. — After rising this morning I felt more 
 cheerful and resigned, and this little pleasant feeling causes thank- 
 fulness. 0 ! how easy a thing it would be to the great Disposer of 
 events to change the dispensation, even as streams in the south; 
 and thereby cheer and comfort my wading mind. Forgive, O 
 Lord ! and have mercy on me, — then might I be favoured to teach 
 transgressors thy way, and by the help of omnipotent power, 
 sinners might be converted. 0 ! that the dispensation I am now 
 passing through may be looked at hereafter, if my life is spared a 
 little longer, and do me good in the latter end. 
 
 " 4//«. — Drove Ann Crowley to Jordans, to a meeting appointed 
 by Ann Alexander and company ; we found a rough way for a 
 few miles of the latter part; Ann and her sister and Ann Crowley 
 appeared, and I was shut up in silence. The house was nearly 
 full, and mostly made up of women of the middle or lower rank, 
 some few excepted, who came in light and airy ; a few men of the 
 first description, and less of those of higher rank. Methought as 
 I sat amongst them, what a change ! probably I sat in or near the 
 place where those favoured men, Isaac Penington and William 
 Penn formerly did, when they could look over a large gathering of 
 living professors, and very likely often handed forth to them living 
 food from the Lord's heavenly table, to their mutual refreshment. 
 Now, if the few Friends were away from before me, there would 
 appear few or none but women with scarlet cloaks, in a raw undis- 
 ciplined state. Alas ! how has the crown fallen from off the head ; 
 and yet what evident marks of the footsteps to be seen. A neater 
 meeting-house is not often to be seen, and many conveniences 
 about it ; and the grave-yard is in nice order. We ate our dinners 
 in an upper chamber, a cold fare, but to me it relished well, and 
 reminded me of many such occasions in the wilderness of America. 
 I learn that two ancient men keep up this meeting twice a week. 
 I returned back to Uxbridge with my friend, and Ann Alexander 
 went to Wycombe. 
 
 " 6th. — Truly I am a poor creature, and seemed this morning 
 as though 1 could hardly lift a finger towards prayer ; like one 
 that had become bankrupt — broken to pieces : perhaps when this 
 is truly so, my good Master may graciously be pleased again to 
 make me up. I am ready to query whether ever there was such 
 an one sent over the sea ; and yet, O ! that I may be favoured even 
 in the fires to glorify His <>reat name, whose work and word is a 
 
 R 
 
242 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 deep mystery. After dinner Ann Crowley proposed a ride, with 
 which I closed ; and she and Rebecca Hull and I rode as far as 
 where Isaac Peningtou used to live, within sight of Chalfont. It is 
 a pleasant rural spot, with a deep valley not far from it, and a 
 grove of fine trees in and around it. The ancient garden walls 
 are standing, and the one next the road is built partly of small 
 flint stones and partly of brick; it is about two miles from 
 Jordans. 
 
 11 8th. — I hear that Ann Alexander and sister, and David Sands, 
 are not far from us, appointing meetings amongst other professors; 
 and here I am, blind, poor and naked, but not miserable ; because 
 I humbly trust I am not standing still thus, from day to day, in 
 my own will. 
 
 " l'3th. — Took a solitary walk on the common, in a low exer- 
 cised state of mind, and endeavoured to cast my whole self on the 
 everlasting Helper of his people. 0 ! how often could I fall pros- 
 trate on the earth, and bewail my state; but there is a secret stay 
 and a language, be patient — be still. After dinner I again took 
 my lonely walk — my bodily strength seems recruited, and 0 ! that 
 patience may have its perfect work respecting my spiritual strength, 
 or so much as the Lord in mercy may please to grant. I cannot 
 move in my own will or desire, to his praise and honour. 0 ! 
 that I may not bring reproach on that ever blessed truth, which I 
 hope and trust has been espoused by me through holy help in days 
 past ; and I dare not believe otherwise now, though my little 
 preaching seems to be, as it were, out of the prison window, or 
 through the iron grating, — for soon after I am shut up again. 
 
 "17$. — To Tottenham and met with George and Sarah Dillwyn, 
 Phebe Speakman, and her companion Ann Crowley. After dinner, 
 dear George supplicated, and my mind was tendered, and once 
 more had a small Pisgah sight of good things. It was indeed 
 pleasant to have a little prospect of what gospel ministry is, and I 
 ventured to hand forth some encouragement to those afresh setting- 
 out, although so shut up myself. 
 
 " 23rd, First-day. — Did not feel so much oppression as some- 
 times on awaking this morning. 0 ! that I might be favoured this 
 day to cast away the labour and toil that have so often made me 
 feel uncomfortable, and lift up my heart to God in faith ; feeling 
 a holy resolution formed by it to give up in all things to the 
 Lord most merciful, to follow on to know him. Surely in the midst 
 of all these deep plunges, my soul craves this, and dare not let him 
 go. Better is it to die than to bring dishonour to the great name. 
 
17.97.1 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS BCATTEHGOOD. 
 
 243 
 
 0! thou Searcher of hearts, and trier of the reins of men, thou 
 knowcst my condition and canst speak to it. Turn out every wrong 
 thing from my heart — root out every wrong plant, and grant me 
 contentment under thy humbling hand. 1 went to Tottenham 
 meeting, where I found Mary Watson ; a quiet, calm resignation 
 spread over my mind in my walk thither, and soon after sitting down, 
 an exercise spread, and the sight of the people assembled added 
 weight to it, some of whom were at the last meeting that I attended 
 at Gracechurch Street, which was a remarkable time. My exercise 
 increased, and cleansing virtue from the Divine presence was experi 
 enced in my own particular. 0 ! methought, what a mercy once more 
 to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living; and feeling 
 strength and boldness given me, I stood up with these words : ' He 
 that hath a dream let him tell his dream ; and he that hath the 
 word of the Lord, let him speak it faithfully ; for what is the 
 chaff to the wheat, saith the Lord.' But what most rested on my 
 mind, was the fresh revival of these expressions, ' Son of man, 
 behold I take away from thee, the desire of thine eyes, with a 
 stroke; ' and as my soul has of later months been made so deeply 
 sensible of this taking away, and even my pleasantest enjoyments 
 have been crumbled as into the earth, I had not only to humble 
 myself in telling the assembly so, but to reason with them of 
 righteousness, temperance and judgment to come. M. W. con- 
 cluded the meeting in prayer, and in the little pause before we 
 separated, my heart was thankful that these words were made 
 good to me : ' But ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are 
 justified, in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the spirit of our 
 God, 1 even by the washing of regeneration and the renewing of the 
 Holy Spirit. It is indeed a miracle of mercy — let reverence 
 possess my soul, and a willingness to bow to His sovereign will 
 and pleasure from hence forward, and guard against a murmuring 
 uneasy spirit. I trust that through all, this has not been charged 
 against me, even in the midst of extremity, for there has been 
 something which has kept my head above the waters ; and I have 
 been afraid of appearing to others, in this uncommon detention, to 
 be a man at ease. The afternoon meeting was large, and in it I 
 also laboured. 
 
 " 27th. — It is an easy thing in the sight of the Lord even 
 suddenly to make a poor man rich : — these expressions have 
 revived this morning on getting up and making this note. Truly 
 my detention after this manner is very marvellous — it is a trial of 
 faith and patience ; yet 1 am much more favoured than I deserve. 
 
 b 2 
 
244. 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEKGOOD. 
 
 [1707. 
 
 Went to meeting at Tottenham and was largely exercised in testi- 
 mony to divers classes, and felt comfortable and quiet after it. 
 
 " 2Sth. — Awoke and arose quiet and more easy in mind, and 
 my soul craved ability to say, I will trust in and rely on thee, O 
 my God ! 
 
 " 30//;, First-day. — To Tottenham meeting once more. I could 
 not persuade myself that I was worthy to stand forth ; but as 
 there were so many of the gay and rich, &c, I endeavoured to 
 discharge myself, and was very closely engaged on the subject of 
 death. In the afternoon was again exercised in testimony, it 
 being a large meeting. 
 
 " Eiqhth Month 1st. — In the night season, I had a little to 
 rejoice in the prospect that, after all, the Lord can make things 
 new ; and if it is his Divine pleasure, fit me and send me into some 
 part of this island to labour, and in the conclusion favour me to 
 return home with peace. 0, my travailing soul ! wait thou on 
 God, who will strengthen thee, and be thou read}' to go forward, 
 when the cloud is taken up, if even but a little : and 0 ! saith my 
 soul, that if there are fellow-servants preparing to accompany me 
 to my native land, that the great Master will be pleased to accom- 
 plish his work in them, and cause them to be in readiness. My 
 beloved friend and fellow-traveller and labourer, and I, had an 
 opportunity this morning of conversing together, and my soul 
 craves that our care and sympathy may not go beyond the altar, 
 but that through all, preservation may be graciously granted, even 
 unto the everlasting kingdom, whither I trust my dear Elizabeth, 
 the wife of my youth, has gone, and where I have been favoured 
 with strong confidence to believe my dear Sarah will be favoured 
 to arrive in the Lord's time. My inward cries were put up in the 
 night season, that almighty Goodness would bless my dear children 
 with a more abundant knowledge of his ways. I trust I can 
 appeal unto Him and say, Thou knowest I covet not great things 
 in this world for them, but that if their lives and mine are spared, 
 (and these I desire to resign up) they may cause my soul to rejoice 
 in beholding them thy servants. My desires have also gone forth 
 at seasons for my dear aged parent, that the Lord may more and 
 more prepare her, as a shock of corn fit for the everlasting gar- 
 ner, — so be it, O merciful One ! and, for thy name and mercy's 
 sake, look down upon thy struggling servant and forgive, and do 
 and give what thou, in thy unsearchable wisdom, seest to be best 
 for him. 
 
 " 3rd. — Lay awake for hours last night, pondering my ways, 
 
1797.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 245 
 
 and the causo that such a path is my lot ; and although these 
 things are too mighty for nic fully to comprehend, yet I hope my 
 soul was brought measurably into a contrite state, with feelings of 
 holy fear and resignation, which wore exceedingly pleasant, even 
 in the midst of the fires. Sometimes I am ready to break forth 
 and say, Thou knowest, 0 Lord ! I am willing to follow thee into 
 any part of this land, or further, if it is thy will, and thy pre- 
 sence goes with me ; but even here I am stopped with an humbling 
 sense that I know not what to ask for, without it is faith and 
 patience to endure what the Lord may see best for me, either 
 in staying or going. I went to the week-day meeting, and 
 was favoured with a good degree of quiet throughout, and a hum- 
 ble hope and trust revived, that if the patience is kept, way will 
 open. 
 
 " 4th, Sixth-day. — I hope I am in a waiting state, with a 
 willing mind to go at my Divine Master's command ; and yet such 
 is the weakness of my mind, that I fear there has been, and per- 
 haps may now be, a want of faith to set out. But surely it has 
 been my soul's delight to move in the living faith, and to be em- 
 ployed in so glorious a work as preaching the gospel. O ! that it 
 may in mercy be granted again, in the Lord's time, not my time. 
 It is close work to keep the patience in extreme poverty, week 
 after week. Notwithstanding all, this springs up as a comfort, 
 that if I am favoured to travel along and bow to the heavenly will, 
 all things will work together for my good at last. 
 
 " 7th. — 0 ! that I could be favoured once more with a ray of 
 living hope, and a belief that I am the Lord's servant ; worthy to 
 be further entrusted in this work, that I could forget, as much as 
 is right and profitable, the things that arc behind ; things acted 
 and transacted heretofore, and experience the mantle of adorable 
 love and mercy cast over all my infirmities, which appear to be 
 not a few, and be favoured patiently to wait the Lord's time for 
 further opening into service in this land, if further labour is my 
 lot. I cannot hasten his coming — O ! for a trembling submission 
 to the Lord's blessed will. 
 
 " 8th. — 0! adorable High Priest, thy mercy, pity and love are 
 an over-balance to all that my wading soul meets with ; therefore, 
 it has not sunk into despair. Forgive all my iniquities, that 
 have so closely encompassed me about : I cannot, I dare not, hide 
 anything from thee, thou all-seeing Judge, for thy penetrating 
 eye goes through the whole earth. 0 Lord! continue thy protect- 
 ing care and mercy to those whom thy poor unworthy servant 
 
246 
 
 JMEM01KS OF THOMAS SCATTEKGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 has left behind, for I desire to hope and trust in thee, 0 my God ! 
 Amen. 
 
 " 20th. — To Tottenham meeting, which was large ; and 1 had 
 once more a full and open time. I ventured also to bend in sup- 
 plication, not only for myself, but for others ; begging for the 
 blessing of preservation, and the forgiveness of sins and iniquities ; 
 and that this meeting might be a time to look back at in seasons of 
 stripping and desertion, as one of mercy and kindness. To after- 
 noon meeting at four o'clock, and had to address the visited 
 children of our heavenly Father, divers of whom I had cause to 
 apprehend were there. In the evening felt comfortable. 0, what 
 a miracle of mercy, extended to such an unworthy one ! The 
 Lord be praised, — and 0 ! for steady faith and reliance on the 
 Divine Arm — come what will. 
 
 " 22nd. — Took leave of the family of Thomas Home, who have 
 shewn me much kindness ; it appearing to me that my time was 
 nearly run out in this place — Tottenham ; where my soul has 
 been deeply plunged. 0 Lord ! be pleased to reach forth thy 
 forgiveness, mercy and truth, and open the way for thy poor 
 unworthy servant. Grant me ability to leave the things that are 
 behind, and reach forward in an upright desire to do thy will only : 
 without thee I can do nothing to profit or peace, — but by and 
 through thy power, all things are accomplished that tend to thy 
 honour. 
 
 " 22rd. — Went to Gracechurch Street meeting, and sat it in 
 pensive silence, but was favoured so far as to see it right to go to 
 Uxbridge. 
 
1797.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 247 
 
 CHAPTER XII. 
 
 RELIGIOUS ENGAGEMENTS IN BUCKINGHAMSHIRE, OXFORDSHIRE, AND 
 
 MOST OF THE NORTHERN COUNTIES WRITES TO GEORGE DILLWYN 
 
 AND HIS "WIFE TRAVELS IN MOST OF THE MIDLAND COUNTIES 
 
 LETTER FROM DAVID BROOKS OF NORTH CAROLINA. 
 
 " Eighth Month 26th. — Set off with Joseph and Rachel Smith, 
 and arrived safely at Uxbridge, and lodged at John Hull's. 
 
 " 27th. — Attended the meeting, where was Sarah Lynes from 
 London, who is on a visit to the north ; she appeared in the 
 ministry, but I was silent, as well as in the evening meeting. 
 
 " 28th. — I have looked to see whether any known duty has been 
 shrunk from in tins land ; even when the hand of the Lord has 
 been heavy on me, and my soul has been bowed down under temp- 
 tations and trials which have been permitted to assail me, and I 
 see none. I felt pleasant in two visits made to E. W. and family, 
 and W. F. and wife; children whom the Lord has favoured me 
 in days past measurably to beget through the gospel. 
 
 "29th. — Felt a comfortable calm this morning, with liberty to 
 go as far as High Wycombe, fourteen miles, whither I rode on 
 horseback. In the afternoon, several Friends stepped in to see 
 me, with whom I had a pretty open time. 
 
 " SOth. — Attended the week-day meeting, and pretty soon after 
 it was gathered, Sarah Lynes and Elizabeth Stephens came in, 
 and likewise a number of the towns-people, and we both had com- 
 munications. After dinner I had a religious opportunity with a 
 number of Friends, and then set out for Oxford — and on descend- 
 ing Stoken Church-hill, was shown a place called Crowell, near 
 which, in the valley, I was informed Thomas Ellwood's father 
 lived : the prospect around was beautiful indeed. 
 
 " 31st. — After breakfast, accompanied by William Hull, pro- 
 ceeded on our journey to Chipping Norton, where we put up at 
 William Atkins 1 , who, with his wife and children received us 
 gladly. 
 
 "Ninth Month 1st. — Attended the week-day meeting, which 
 was a pretty tendering time ; and on the 2nd we set off about 
 eight o'clock, having first had a sweet religious opportunity with 
 the family, and arrived at Birmingham about dusk, having 
 
248 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 travelled forty-two miles : here we found William and Ann 
 Alexander. 
 
 " 3rd, First-day. — In the meeting, which was large, I had to 
 sound an alarm to some, and to offer consolation to another state ; 
 and in the afternoon had a full, comfortable time, many of the 
 town's-peoplc being collected ; my two female friends had also a 
 share in the labour. 
 
 " 5fh. — Left Birmingham about eleven o'clock, accompanied by 
 Joseph Shipton for a guide, (a young lawyer, who came into the 
 Society by convincement :) William Hull also was with us. Stopped 
 at Litchfield and dined; after which took a walk to the market- 
 place and town-hall, where we understood William Savery had a 
 meeting. We lodged at Burton-on- Trent. 
 
 " 6th. — Went onabout eleven miles, and stopped at Derby to break- 
 fast ; and whilst J. Smith was transacting a little business, I took a 
 walk into the town, through the graveyard, and to a great building 
 with a high steeple. My spirits were oppressed, and I felt dejected 
 and low. My thoughts turned to George Fox and his imprison- 
 ment ; and if my exercise has been in sympathy and feeling with 
 a state of deep trial and suffering, into which he and some of our 
 forefathers were largely introduced, I am content ; for I can feel 
 little opening towards the people at large. 0 Lord ! hasten the 
 day of Zioifs redemption and prosperity : bring down pride and 
 haughtiness, and that ranting, unbelieving spirit, which is so pre- 
 valent in this land, and set up thy ensign of righteousness more 
 conspicuously ; and grant that my soul may still be supported to 
 answer thy requirings, either in doing or suffering. The country 
 round about Derby is very fine, but the road to this place hilly. 
 After dinner we proceeded on, and arrived at Chesterfield, where 
 we lodged. 
 
 " 7th. — Sat with Friends in their week-day meeting, which was 
 small ; and though I felt much weakness, ventured to express my 
 feelings. After dinner we rode to Sheffield, where A Villiam Fairbank 
 and wife received us kindly. In the evening a large number of 
 Friends came in, with whom I had a religious opportunity. 
 
 " Sth. — Went on, accompanied by William Fairbank, passing 
 through Wakefield, and arrived at Christiana Hustler's after night, 
 where we found a pretty large company of Friends, it being the 
 day on which their Monthly Meeting was held. Felt my mind 
 light and easy ; but when I lay down did not feel so well, fearing 
 that in this state of liberty, I in some degree broke bounds ; 0 ! 
 the necessity of watching at all times. 
 
1797.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SC ATTERGOOD . 
 
 249 
 
 " 9th. — Left C. Hustler's about eleven o'clock, and passed 
 through Keighley and Thornton to Martha Smith's, sister of my 
 kind landlord, who, with his wife, are still with mc. Wc crossed 
 a steep mountain, which reminded me of my journey over the 
 Alleghany mountains in America. We passed through a fine 
 country lying to the north — saw the town of Skipton, and the 
 village called Carlton, about one mile from it ; the last place is 
 where Markham lived, the priest who cast Friends of Lothersdale 
 into prison at York. 
 
 " \0th, First-day. — Was accompanied by our London Friends 
 J. and R. Smith, and others, into the dale called Lothersdale, 
 where we found a pretty large gathering of F riends and others ; 
 and I had an open, tendering opportunity amongst them. We 
 dined at Mary StansfieWs, whose husband, John Stansfield, is a 
 prisoner at York, for tithes, at the suit of priest Markham ; after 
 which, took a walk with Joseph Smith to the old meeting-house, 
 to look at the ground, they proposing to build a new one. My 
 heart went forth in love to dear Joseph whilst he was sitting 
 by my side in the meeting, on remembering to have heard 
 him say that he intended to build a new house for these poor 
 Friends in this place ; and I did believe, that in so doing, the 
 Almighty would bless him. I felt comfortable and easy among 
 this peeled little company ; who live in a vale as poor and lonely, 
 I thought, as some places on our Alleghany mountains. 
 
 " 12th. — My mind has been turned this morning towards my 
 dear wife, children and family ; and as respects some of them, with 
 sighs and tears ; and yet with desire, I trust, uprightly to say, 
 ' Thy will be done, 0 God ! and let mine submit in obedience to 
 it. O ! preserve thy servant in this his lonely state.' We 
 rode to Settle, and got to the select Monthly Meeting about five 
 o'clock. 
 
 " loth. — Arose low and poor. ' If the Lord keep not the city, 
 the watchman wakcth but in vain ; except the Lord build the 
 house, they labour in vain who build it. 1 May I cast "myself, 
 therefore, on him, hoping and trusting still in His mercy and good- 
 ness ; for indeed, I am often a poor, solitary one. Attended the 
 Monthly Meeting at eleven o'clock, and had to communicate pretty 
 largely to several states. Two women walked, yesterday, from the 
 Dale, about seventeen miles, in the rain, thunder and lightning, to 
 attend the meeting. 
 
 " \4dh. — Felt a little revival of hope before leaving my bed this 
 morning. How often have I been tried with respect to some sin- 
 
250 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTURGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 gular testimonies which I had to bear in London, — when my mind 
 has been almost ready to sink ; and yet, through all, I hope and 
 trust I can say, it has been the desire of my soul to act and speak 
 uprightly, and I must leave the issue to the Lord most merciful. 
 I recollect particularly, what a very painful, wakeful night I had, 
 previous to one of the last opportunities at Gracechurch Street, 
 when Ezekiel's situation was revived, and I handed it forth. My 
 spirit was pressed down with it in the night while lying on my 
 bed. I have thought my spiritual state, for months past, has re- 
 sembled that of the prophet, when the widow fed him — his was 
 outward want, as expressed in the Old Testament, — mine is in- 
 ward ; he was fed by the widow, who had naught but a little meal 
 in the barrel, and oil in the cruise, and yet it held out through a 
 time of drought. 0 ! that the great Prophet may be pleased to 
 sustain and help me through this time of stripping and famine, 
 who am mostly in a state of much weakness and blindness, and 
 yet trust a little portion of faith and hope remains, although it be 
 comparable to the handful of meal in the barrel, and a little oil in 
 the cruise. Returned to Martha Smith's at Thornton. 
 
 " 16th. — Felt no opening to appoint a meeting in this neigh- 
 bourhood, and seem much a blank ; yet hope, that as a scholar in 
 the school of Christ, I am getting this lesson by heart, — Thy 
 will be done. 
 
 " 17th, First-day. — Joseph Smith went yesterday to Skipton, 
 and before he set off, after endeavouring to get enough into the 
 quiet to hear the Shepherd's voice, I ventured to encourage him to 
 appoint a public meeting to be held there on Second-day morning, 
 and another at Lothersdale, to be held this morning, with which 
 I felt easy. After breakfast, accompanied by Joseph Smith, got 
 into the Dale about ten o'clock, and climbed up a steep, slippery 
 hill, and had a satisfactory opportunity with a large number of 
 what are called Sunday scholars. Some tenderness appeared 
 amongst them, but I was much spent from the closeness of the 
 room, and the breath of so many. Went to the meeting at eleven 
 o'clock, which was very large, and an open relieving time — the 
 people behaved solidly ; I felt much fatigued, yet, after a tendering 
 time with the exercised woman whose husband is in York castle 
 for tithes, and others who came in, I set off across the mountains, 
 the near way for Thornton. 
 
 " 18th. — Got into Skipton about ten o'clock, and found that our 
 meeting was to be held in a Methodist meeting-house, the one 
 belonging to Friends being small, and as the other had been offered 
 
1797.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTKKGOOU. 
 
 251 
 
 to Sarah Harrison when hero, and the same person, a considerable 
 man in the town, offering it again for our meeting, Friends were 
 free to accept it. It is very commodious, and I had an open, com- 
 fortable time in the meeting, and hope it was so to divers who were 
 gathered. The name of the person who offered the house is Peter 
 Garforth ; and I learn that his sister built it, and that a goodly 
 solid woman who was at our meeting, proposes building one a little 
 distance from this place. 
 
 " 22nd. — To Kendal week-day meeting; and though for some- 
 time I sat in poverty, yet afterwards was a little comforted and 
 cheered, and set at liberty, not only to warn the unruly, but to 
 hand forth some comfort to the feeble-minded. Dined at George 
 and Deborah Braithwaite's with several Friends, and after it, 
 Joseph Smith, George and I, took a walk to the old castle, and 
 looked over the town ; we also went into the large old steeple-house, 
 and I had the curiosity to step it on the inside, and made it 144 
 feet by 105. 
 
 " MtA, First-day. — The meeting to-day was but a low, exer- 
 cising time in the beginning : I laboured earnestly amongst them, 
 and very closely, from these expressions, with which E. Robinson, 
 a young woman lately convinced, closed her testimony before I 
 arose : ' Bring forth, therefore, fruits meet for repentance, 1 &c. This 
 young woman, I am informed, is turned out of doors by her mother 
 for coming amongst Friends. The evening meeting was put off 
 until six o'clock, and though 1 gave no liberty to invite any, yet 
 it was large, and very close and exercising labour fell to my lot 
 from these words ,• ' Seek not death in the error of your life.' 
 
 " 2ofh. — A pretty calm mind this morning, though under con- 
 flict on my bed, in reflecting upon the little effect which religious 
 labour seems to have on the minds of the people in the present 
 day. 0 ! the independent, atheistical spirit that prevails over 
 many, and has even entered and gained some ground in our reli- 
 gious Society. How often is my soul afflicted and bowed under a 
 consideration of the state of the high towering ones, who know so 
 little of the afflictions of Joseph, or the imprisoned seed. 
 
 " 27th.— We got to Cockermouth, having rode forty-two 
 miles. 
 
 " 28th. — Attended the select Quarterly Meeting, which was 
 large, and it fell to my lot to be closely engaged in a searching 
 manner. At two o'clock, went to the Quarterly Meeting, in which 
 I had a full, relieving opportunity, both in the meeting for worship 
 and that for discipline. We had the company, at dinner and tea, 
 
252 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 of Sarah Talbot, and her companion Sarah Shackleton of Ireland, 
 and Mary Sterry, and Mary Watson, much to my comfort ; and 
 when we sat down to dine, my heart was enlarged in prayer for 
 myself and fellow-labourers, — and that the young people of this 
 family might be blessed ; and that Ave might be favoured in the 
 present Quarterly Meeting, &c. 
 
 " 29th. — To the parting meeting at nine o'clock, and after all 
 my friends had an opportunity to relieve their minds, I had a full 
 relieving time, and Mary Watson closed in prayer. 
 
 " 30th. — Rested pretty well, and through favour feel my mind 
 calm and resigned to the will of my heavenly Master, with breath- 
 ing desires that I may be favoured to know him to go before, and 
 to know his voice ; then surely, let what requiring soever be opened, 
 it will be my duty to say, ' Here am I, send me ! 1 so be it, saith 
 my soul, in humility and reverence. After breakfast we left 
 Cockermouth, and passing through Preston, arrived at White- 
 haven. 
 
 " Tenth Month 2nd. — Set off, stopping at Keswick to dine, and 
 got into Hawkshead late, where we lodged. This was a lonely but 
 instructive ride to me, amongst the mountains — many sheep were 
 feeding on the sides of the hills, and interspersed among them 
 are lakes of considerable extent. 
 
 " 3rd. — Drank tea at Clement Satterthwaite's, where I had a 
 satisfactory opportunity, in which a dear Friend, Hannah Wilson, 
 who is eighty years old, and lively and green in her old age, joined 
 in a short testimony. How comfortable to find a seed preserved, 
 who are accounted for a remnant. 
 
 " 4th. — Took a walk over the meeting-house and grave yard — 
 the latter had seats of stone all around it, fixed in the wall ; and 
 in the middle a wall about as high as a seat, which the old Friend 
 told us after we returned, was so constructed, she understood, in 
 order to hold meetings there in ancient times. In coming to this 
 place the day before yesterday, we rode for sometime in sight of a 
 hill called Pardsay Cragg, where Friends, in the beginning, held 
 their meetings in the open air — when the wind and rain beat 
 on one side of the hill, they removed to the other, and it appeared 
 to have ridges one above another, like steps, as if formed for the 
 purpose of seats. Dined early and set off, and got to the ferry- 
 house at Windermere lake, kept by a blind man. Our horses 
 were taken over in a large boat ; and the rest of the company, with 
 our friend John Bragg, took a smaller one, and rowed around 
 Curwens island. The prospect is beautiful indeed to the eye, the 
 
1797.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 253 
 
 land surrounding it being covered with shrubbery, fruit-trees, and 
 a comfortable looking house ; but when I heard that the person 
 who owns it was offered £20,000. for it, and would not take it, 
 although containing only about forty-two acres, I thought what a 
 pity so much should lie as it were dormant, when there are so 
 many widows and fatherless children ready to perish. After 
 landing we found there was no post-chaise to be had, so my kind 
 London friends, J. and R. Smith, were obliged to put up with a 
 cart and a boy to drive them nine miles to Kendal, and it was a 
 mountainous ride, and very entertaining. 
 
 " 5th. — To the select Quarterly Meeting, where very singular 
 things were delivered by me, although an utter stranger; but I 
 heard afterwards, that they were pertinent : here I was met by 
 Mary Sterry and Mary Watson. The Quarterly Select Meeting 
 was held at three o'clock in the afternoon, and the Monthly Meet- 
 ing for Kendal in the morning at ten o'clock. 
 
 " 6th. — To the Quarterly Meeting, where the labour fell mostly 
 on me, and I was favoured with a full, relieving time, both in the 
 meeting for worship, and afterwards in that for discipline. I went 
 also, into the women's meeting with Simon Harker, who expressed 
 a concern, in a lively tender manner, to visit families. Attended 
 the parting meeting at six o'clock, and we sat nearly or quite two 
 hours in silence, and to me it was a sweet, refreshing time, such as 
 I have not frequently been indulged with ; and in the close, I had 
 a short testimony to deliver." 
 
 In a letter from this place, dated Tenth Month 8th, 1797, 
 he says : 
 
 " Which way I shall move from this place, I know not at 
 present, and am content with my allotment, even when going a 
 zig-zag course. I have been used to it in my native land, and 
 through mercy it is made easy enough now, and T am daily trying to 
 learn this important lesson, ' Thy will, and not mine, O God ! be 
 done and if preserved here, whether heights or depths, princi- 
 palities or powers, life or death, may, in unsearchable wisdom be 
 dispensed, all things will work together for good. I may just add, 
 and that with humility and thankfulness of heart, that I have 
 been favoured with much enlargement in these two Quarterly 
 Meetings, viz : Cumberland and Northumberland, and Kendal, and 
 trust acceptance in the minds of my Friends." 
 
 u 10th. — To the week-day meeting, which I sat through in 
 
234 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 silence, and felt content and cheerful after it. Soon after dinner 
 set off, accompanied by Joseph Smith and G. Braithwaite, all on 
 horse-back, to Ulverston ; we had a mountainous ride of twenty- 
 one miles, and got into town after night, about seven o'clock. 
 
 " — Attended Swarthmoro meeting, about a mile out of 
 town ; and after it, took a walk over to see the remains of the old 
 hall, where Judge Fell lived. It is in a ruinous condition, having 
 gone much to decay ; the room where they used to hold meetings, 
 and which stood on the left of the entrance, is quite dilapidated. 
 The entrance is paved with flag-stone ; on the right hand is a large 
 room with a curious old-fashioned window, somewhat like the 
 modern projecting bow-window ; it is two steps up, and in it stands 
 an old chair, on which was marked T. T., 1642. There is curious 
 wrought work in parts of the room, and I think it was flagged. 
 The staircase is a very singular one, with curious carved work, 
 and goes up to the roof. One of the chambers has very old- 
 fashioned cut work over the chimney place, and around it, and on 
 the edge of the hearth-stone. The once beautiful garden and 
 orchard, and the walls round them are all in ruins. The meeting- 
 house is neat and comfortable, much such a one as that at Jordans : 
 there is a good wall around a large grave-yard, with trees about 
 the house, the two nearest the door are not much unlike our pines 
 or firs. Over the door is inscribed Ex. dono G. F. 1688; and I 
 was informed he purchased the ground of one of his daughters-in- 
 law, and ordered the house to be built, but never saw it. There 
 are yet two very-old fashioned oaken chairs in the small part of 
 the meeting-house which he gave to Friends. One of them 
 Robert Widders used to occupy, and John Taylor, of this country, 
 the otber ; both are of very curious workmanship. There was 
 but a small company of people at the meeting, but with thankful- 
 ness I may record, that both on going up the road to meeting, and 
 soon after taking my seat, my mind was comforted. After dear 
 G. B. had spoken my feelings in a few words, the meeting was 
 gathered into a comfortable frame, and I ventured to bend in sup- 
 plication ; and then was pretty largely engaged in an encouraging 
 line, especially to the youth. I thought I had a prospect of a 
 renewed visitation to this place in a day to come, and mentioned 
 somewhat of it to the meeting. In the silent part, I remembered a 
 portion of the ninety-first psalm, and had a secret hope that I 
 might lay hold of it for my encouragement ; for indeed I was 
 once more favoured to feel the salvation of God near ; even Him 
 who is the blotter out of sin, and the forgiver of past transgres- 
 
1797-1 
 
 MEMOIRS OV THOMAS SCA.TTERGOOD. 
 
 255 
 
 sions ; and who said ' I will show him my salvation. 1 In the 
 evening, after walking up a high hill and taking a view of the 
 town, the hay, and the place where George Fox was dragged by 
 the rude persecuting people, and nearly killed, and looking into 
 tho old steeple-house, I had a solid religious opportunity with 
 several Friends. 
 
 "12th. — After breakfast my mind was impressed with a prospect 
 of going again to Swarthmore Hall, for when we left it yesterday, 
 as the woman who keeps it let us out of the gate, my mind was 
 rather unusually turned towards her, and as this concern remained 
 with me on my bed, both on lying down and during my wakeful 
 moments in the night, I told my companions I must go back — so 
 they, with Elijah Salthouse the elder, went with me. Soon after 
 getting in, I asked her if she was willing to send for her sons out 
 of the harvest field, (for they were drawing oats,) and with her 
 two grown-up daughters, sit with us for half an hour in a religious 
 way. She soon had her sons in, with one other young man 
 and a lad, with whom we had a baptizing time. One of the 
 grown-up sons had lately returned from off a man-of-war, on 
 board of which ho had been decoyed : he was much broken into 
 tenderness and tears, in the opportunity, and told me on parting, 
 he was disposed to remain and help his mother, his father having 
 recently died after a short illness. O ! the sweet peace I felt in 
 and near these old ruins, as well as after I left them, from an 
 honest discharge of duty. We left Ulverston, stopping near lake 
 Windermere to tea, and got to Kend;il about dusk. 
 
 " 14th. — I have occasion to acknowledge that the Lord has been 
 my strength and my song, and also my salvation : lie has opened 
 and enlarged my heart in this north country, and wrought a 
 willingness in me to follow him further, if the way should open. 
 I had this morning a baptizing tendering time on my bed, with 
 humbling prospects, and many tears. 0! may I be favoured to 
 abide constantly in the will of God, who has led, and also fed me 
 in this land, with food suitable and convenient for me, although it 
 has been the bread of adversity, and at times, the bitter water of 
 affliction; yet mine eye still beholds my teacher; and now, instead 
 of going further north, I must turn a little back, and what matter 
 if it bo by the way of the wilderness, so as it is the way of my 
 heavenly Master's good pleasure ; then by following on fully and 
 faithfully, all my trials and deep inward conflicts will no doubt be 
 blessed and sanctified to me. 
 
 "After several religious opportunities in families, we set off, and 
 
256 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 passing through Yealand, we got to Lancaster, and put up at 
 David Dockray's, and soon after we got in, a newspaper was put 
 into my hands, containing an account of the yellow fever having 
 appeared in Philadelphia. 
 
 " 15th, First-day. — Attended the meeting, and was favoured to 
 relieve my mind, first with a language of encouragement and con- 
 solation to the children, babes and sucklings in the church, and 
 afterwards with a rod to false professors. In the afternoon at 
 three o'clock, most, if not all of the morning company came again, 
 with the addition of some strangers, and I had a large, open and 
 relieving time ; so much so, that I not only thought, whilst speak- 
 ing, but said that it looked likely my stay would not be long in 
 this place ; for in other cases where there has been an opening and 
 strength given to relieve my mind, there has been liberty also to 
 go pretty soon. Drank tea at William Jepson's, and soon after, 
 there came in some orphan children, grandaughters of Elizabeth 
 Wilkinson, who was in America with Alice Hall ; and I felt very 
 sweet and comfortable toward them, and had encouragement to hold 
 forth to them, but otherwise to another state present. 0 ! how 
 this unbelieving, independent spirit grieves and pains my best life. 
 In the evening a Friend came in, who had with him New York 
 papers, giving a further account of the fever, of which about sixty 
 persons had died ; it appears to be much like that of 1793. 
 
 " 16t/i, Second-day. — I hardly knew whether my mind was most 
 in sympathy with the sick and distressed in Philadelphia yesterday, 
 or dipped into the state of the meeting here, as I found it when 
 amongst them : I had to tell some of the company, that they were 
 wearing linsey-woolsey garments, sowing their fields with divers 
 sorts of grain, and ploughing with an ox and ass, &c, and my 
 labour was close indeed. To-day a Friend told me that there is a 
 young man here who is convinced, and comes to this meeting, 
 whose mother threatened him much if ho ihoiCd her, &c, which he 
 believed it was his duty to do. She went to some of the gay 
 Friends belonging here, to make her complaint, and said to them, 
 she wished, if her son must go to meeting, that he might be such 
 a Quaker as they were, who could attend meeting, and yet say you, 
 and use the world's language in other respects. AVhat a rebuke 
 this was. After dinner, parted with my friends, G. Braithwaite 
 and J. W. ; I felt easy to go towards Sheffield, and set off and 
 rode twenty-two miles to Preston, and met an open, kind reception 
 from AVilliam Brown and his sister Alice. I had a sweet ride 
 here, because of that ease and peace of mind I enjoyed. 
 
1797.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 257 
 
 " 1 7th. — Wo passed through Blackburn and Haslingden, and 
 arrived at Todmorden, where we lodged. 
 
 " 18th. — Awoke stripped and poor this morning, and endea- 
 voured to prostrate myself in humble prayer to my great and 
 Almighty Helper, and trust I heard the still small voice, saying, 
 ' Go to Sheffield. 1 Samuel Greenwood, a young man of this place, 
 offering to accompany me, we journeyed on to High Flats, and just 
 before we got there, I thought I had the most extensive prospect 
 of any I had seen in this land, from a barren, high hill. We 
 arrived at Sheffield after forty-six miles' ride, and put up with my 
 kind friends William and Mary Fairbank. 
 
 " 19th. — Arose this morning fresh and well, and now a consi- 
 deration arises, why such haste to get back to this place I O my 
 soul ! wait in patience, for there is peace administered thus far. 
 In my lonely ride, and especially during the latter part of the day, 
 my thoughts were turned home to my family, and poor Philadel- 
 phia ; and such has been the favour vouchsafed amidst my deep 
 conilict, that there has been a fixed evidence sealed on my mind, 
 that if an All-wise Providence calls some of my dear family hence, 
 and I should not be permitted in this life again to enjoy their 
 society, there is a place of rest and peace prepared. What a con- 
 solation this has been, at seasons, to my wading mind. 0! then 
 let me leave these things to Him who judgeth righteously. 
 Attended the week-day meeting, and was favoured with a satis- 
 factory time. I told them that I had come nearly one hundred 
 miles to attend this meeting ; and in the close felt liberty to say, 
 that it would be pleasant to have the neighbours invited to come 
 and sit with them on First-day. 
 
 " list. — Was informed that Friends have provided a large 
 building formerly used as a foundery, about thirty-two yards by 
 twenty, and fitted it up with benches and a gallery, to accommodate 
 the meeting on First-day ; their own house being small. 
 
 " 22nd, First-day. — Attended two very large meetings. It was 
 computed that three thousand people were at the one held in the 
 afternoon. Both of them were very satisfactory to my mind. 
 After the morning meeting a captain of horse in this place, came 
 and attempted to speak to me, but when he took me by the hand, 
 he turned away and left me— he came again in the afternoon, and 
 then told me his heart was too full to speak to mo in the morning. 
 In the evening we had a sweet religious opportunity in prayer and 
 testimony at William Fairbanks. 
 
 " 25?/*, Fourth-day. — To meeting, which was thought to be 
 
258 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 three-fourths filled with journeymen, apprentice lads, &c. ; it was 
 solid, and they left it in a commendable manner, affording consi- 
 derable relief to my mind. 
 
 " 26th. — To week-day meeting held in the large house, many 
 of the inhabitants attended, and it was satisfactory to me, finding 
 much enlargement. At the close I appointed one for female ser- 
 vants, &c, to be held to-morrow afternoon. 
 
 " 27t/t. — At eleven, accompanied by William Fairbank and 
 Thomas Colley, I went to the work-house, and bad a meeting with 
 the poor people, and a large number of poor children ; which was 
 to satisfaction, — several of the overseers or managers being also 
 present, who were respectful after the opportunity. At three 
 o'clock, attended tho meeting appointed for female servants, Sec, 
 which was much crowded, and on tho whole a satisfactory, re- 
 lieving time, though I had to stand up in much weakness. The 
 people were long in getting out, and towards the last the tutoress 
 of a school for poor girls, who had brought her scholars to meeting, 
 and had seated them in the back part of the house, came forward 
 with them, and placed them before me, under the gallery, and I 
 had a satisfactory opportunity with them." 
 
 In a letter to George Dillwyn, dated the 28th of this month, 
 after speaking of his release from London, &c, ho says : 
 
 " When I returned last to Kendal, my way seemed closing up 
 respecting the north, and opened towards Lancaster ; this seemed 
 like going back, but as the prospect fixed pleasantly on my mind, 
 giving up thereto afforded sweet peace. From thence, this place 
 opened, and fastened with more weight than any prospect for some 
 time, and what appeared singular was, that I must hasten, and be 
 at their week-day meeting. Some reasoning took place on the 
 way ; what should be tho cause I knew not, whether to go into 
 sickness myself, or hear of the sickness or death of some of my 
 friends ; but being favoured with strength to perform the journey, 
 as the intimation to my mind was, so it has been performed. ' Go 
 to Sheffield, and it shall be shown thee what to do. 1 I found much 
 to do, and have been helped, if not to much profit to others, yet 
 to the relief of my own mind.' 1 After speaking of " the faith and 
 zeal " of Friends in fitting up the large building, and the character 
 of the meetings, which is described pretty much as in his diary, 
 he says : "Dear George, this is a singular line in which I am led; 
 yet, let the wits of this world say what they may, and I have been 
 often deeply tried with this spirit, so prevalent with some, my 
 
17.07.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SOATTF.RGOOn. 
 
 259 
 
 mind has been convinced and confirmed in the belief, that the 
 revelation of the mind and will of a most glorious High Priest has 
 not ceased, but is continued, more or less in his church, and to 
 his humble depending children. I have been querying why I 
 should write thus ; is there not occasion for such a poor thing as 
 I to lay my mouth as in the dust ? Yes, and it has been so often, 
 in this land of high profession ; but surely there is still a power 
 sufficient to make the very stones cry out.' 1 
 
 The followinir account of this visit to Sheffield is from another 
 hand, viz : 
 
 " On the 18th of Tenth Month, 1797, Thomas Scattergood came 
 to Sheffield, and attended our week-day meeting next day, where 
 ho had much service, principally addressed to the youth ; and at 
 the conclusion mentioned his intention of staying over First-day, 
 requesting that Friends would invito their neighbours to come and 
 sit with us. As our Meeting-house was not large enough to ac- 
 commodate a great many more than our usual attenders, Friends 
 obtained a very large building, erected for an iron foundery, which 
 was unoccupied, fitted it up with a gallery and comfortable seats, 
 and met there on First-day. The meeting was very largely 
 attended by the inhabitants of our populous town, and Thomas was 
 remarkably led to speak with convincing authority, awfully calling 
 on the company to consider the uncertainty of time, and prepare 
 to meet their God ; telling us in how singular a manner he had 
 been drawn here, — that when about one hundred miles distant, he 
 felt a strong and forcible attraction to Sheffield, accompanied with 
 an intelligible language in the secret of his heart, which followed 
 him day and night, ' Go to Sheffield, go to Sheffield, and there it 
 shall bo shown thee what thou shalt do : hasten thee, hasten thee. 1 
 It was truly awful, and seemed to spread seriousness over the 
 assembly ; his testimony was long and very powerful. The after- 
 noon meeting was still more crowded, it being estimated that 
 three thousand persons were thero ; and in that meeting also his 
 services were very great. To the surprise of the audience, the 
 voice of our dear Friend held out wonderfully, and in the evening 
 his very countenance bespoke the peace of his dedicated mind : a, 
 remarkable degree of solemnity prevailed in both these meetings. 
 After supper he had a memorable opportunity in my father's family, 
 several young Friends being present ; and after commemorating 
 the greatness of Divine power displayed that day, ho addressed 
 several persons in affectionato and encouraging language. 
 
 s 2 
 
260 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 " On Fourth-day morning, the 25th, another meeting was 
 appointed at our friend's request, and held in the same large 
 building, for the male sex solely, chiefly apprentices and working 
 men of the manufactories in the town ; and it was attended by a 
 large number. On Fifth-day, our usual meeting-day, a large 
 number collected, and he was again enabled to minister to the 
 various states of the people, to the admiration of many. At the 
 conclusion of the meeting he expressed a desire to see the lower 
 class of the female sex, such as servants, &c, exclusively the next 
 afternoon at three o'clock. The meeting was accordingly appointed, 
 and a large number collected; it was computed that more than two 
 thousand women were present ; they were called upon by our dear 
 friend in an awakening manner, to prepare for their latter end, and 
 various states and stations were feelingly addressed : the girls of 
 a charity school present, with their teacher, were particularly 
 addressed, and the children reminded that women were the first 
 promulgators of the gospel. 
 
 " In the forenoon of the same day, Thomas had a meeting in 
 the poor-house with the families, pensioners, and a few others. 
 On First-day, 29th, had two other very crowded meetings, 
 attended by (it was believed) three thousand persons, in each of 
 which he preached in the demonstration of the spirit, and with 
 power, imparting many gospel truths, and touching upon the 
 subjects of baptism, spiritual worship and our belief that revelation 
 has not ceased. In the afternoon he was led to explain some of 
 our peculiar tenets ; amongst others, disapprobation of oaths and 
 war, the latter of which, he said was one of the noblest testimonies 
 we have to bear. 1 ' 
 
 In a letter to his wife about this date, after alluding to the 
 accounts which had reached him, of the progress of the yellow 
 fever in Philadelphia, he says : 
 
 " This seems more than a bare report, and if true, is awful 
 indeed. I have gone through abundance, in deep thoughtfulness 
 about home, &c, frequently in this land, and could write much 
 about it ; but it may suffice to say, that since this account has 
 reached me, my mind has been closely exercised; and yet, through 
 mercy, and indeed to my humble admiration, possessing much 
 quiet and resignation to the will of Him who judgeth righteously, 
 and doeth all things well; and know I cannot add to, or diminish 
 by taking thought. Thou mayst naturally think, my dear, that I 
 shall be under much anxiety to hear and know how things go with 
 
1707.] 
 
 JIEMOIIiS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 261 
 
 you in Philadelphia, and in my family ; and if you are spared, it 
 will be of adorable mercy; and if so ordered that some of us never 
 meet again in mutability, strong has been my faith at times, when 
 looking towards thee, that our heavenly F ather is near, and that 
 whether in life or death, all would be well. This has cheered my 
 drooping soul, when looking towards my family, and I have had 
 renewed cause of late, after a very great conflict which was heavy 
 upon me for months, to believe that I am in my allotment, and 
 trust, under the protection of Him who feeds the ravens, and 
 without whose notice, not a sparrow can fall to the ground ; and 
 if further trials await, O ! that my soul may be favoured to say in 
 truth and with uprightness, ' Not my will, 0 Lord ! but thine be 
 done.' " 
 
 " 29th, First-day. — Unwell last evening, with some cold and 
 sore throat, which increased in the night, and feci poor in spirit 
 this morning, and humbled. I trust mercy and kindness are with 
 the Lord, who can heal and help. Went to meeting, which was 
 very large, and a fine open time of much enlargement, for which 
 I felt very thankful to the Lord, my most merciful, holy and 
 mighty Helper. 0 ! that my soul may feel after preservation in 
 the future, come what may. To afternoon meeting, which was 
 also very much crowded, and to my great admiration, a time of 
 enlargement. 0 ! what a favour to get well through such largo 
 meetings. 
 
 " Eleventh Month 1st. — Very weak and poor with respect to 
 moving on, yet Derby, Derby, seems to sound in my ears in tho 
 same manner as this place did a week or two ago. About eleven 
 o'clock, after some close thoughtfulness, came to a conclusion to 
 go, and my kind host W. F., inclining to accompany me, we rode 
 to Chesterfield and were kindly cared for by Mary Storrs, her 
 husband being with Ann Alexander and sister Mary in Wales. 
 Before we proceeded any further, I thought best to authorize hor 
 to write to Friends at Nottingham, to engage them to go to Derby 
 and procure a large place for a meeting, and invito the inhabitants 
 to come together on First-day next, after which we rode to 
 Mansfield. 
 
 " 3rd. — Spent this day pretty quietly at Richard Leaver's, 
 except taking a little walk through the town, and found it pretty 
 much in confusion, it being the day that servants, both male and 
 female, come to offer themselves to hire. 
 
 " ith.— This morning my soul has craved animating strength, 
 
262 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SG'ATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 and I am ready to say forgiveness also ; fearing there has been 
 too much indulgence. We set off for Derby, and got in about 
 dusk, and found several Friends there, who had procured the 
 county hall, and fitted it up with seats. This evening we had a 
 meeting at the inn with most of the professors in this place, to 
 satisfaction. 
 
 " 5th, First-day. — Held two large meetings, much to the relief 
 of my mind ; a very great crowd attended in the afternoon, and 
 though there w r as much unsettlement at first, I was favoured to 
 get along, and the meeting ended well, — Truth being in dominion 
 over lightness. 
 
 " 6th. — Felt an openness to go into the families of the few 
 professors in this place, and accordingly visited seven or eight 
 families; on the whole my services have yielded solid comfort and 
 peace to my mind, and now the query arises, Lord, what further 
 wouldest thou have me to do I 
 
 " 7th. — Felt a liberty to move on to Castle Donington, where 
 we had a religious opportunity in the family of George and Iluth 
 Follows. 
 
 " Sth. — Went to meeting and a considerable number of the 
 townVpeople came in ; Ruth Follows opened a door for me to 
 preach the gospel, and it was a tendering opportunity towards the 
 close, I hope to satisfaction. After this my mind was turned 
 towards Nottingham, though it appeared like going back again ; 
 and wo arrived there a little after ni^ht. 
 
 " 9th. — Went to meeting in a low condition and sat long in 
 silence, but towards the close had some very close things to say, 
 and afterwards encouragement and consolation to the widows and 
 fatherless, and exercised ones. 
 
 " lOth. — I took a lonely walk in the park at the back of the 
 castle and dropped a silent tear, and was comforted in being thus 
 alone, and yet not altogether alone, for I. remembered with sweet- 
 ness this passage, ' Thus saith the high and lofty one that 
 inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and 
 holy place, with him also that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and 
 who tremblcth at my word.' 0 ! how sweet is retirement ; here I 
 remembered the many lonely and deeply exercising times I had 
 when walking near Tottenham ; and also some of the walks on 
 Uxbridge common ; how my way was hedged up at times, and at 
 others", some sweet moments in submitting to the dispensation of 
 an ill-wise Providence, and yielding up my will to the trying- 
 prospects that frequently presented. In my lonely walk this 
 
1797.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 263 
 
 morning my soul bowed in prostration, and begged for preserva- 
 tion to the end of this pilgrim journey, and was favoured in some 
 degree to see the good land afar off. 
 
 ; ' 12th, First-day. — This meeting was a singular one — my 
 heart was much enlarged to divers states, and I had to reason 
 with some concerning righteousness, temperance, and judgment 
 to come. It was a tendering meeting, and a Friend told me that 
 a youth said, he could not attend to business after meeting on 
 Fifth-day last, he was so affected. The Lord have the praise of 
 his own work. To afternoon meeting at half-past two o'clock, 
 which was pretty much fdled up with strangers, I thought of a 
 serious class, and it proved a satisfactory time. 
 
 " 15th. — Attended the meeting at Mansfield, and had a pretty 
 open time, and on the 16th, was at meeting at Sutton in Ashfiehl, 
 where considerable tenderness and solidity appeared. Thomas 
 Kirksham, who had been a priest, and was well acquainted with 
 Friends 1 principles, seeing there was room in the house, sent for his 
 scholars, and when they came in, my heart seemed moved within 
 me in love towards them. The goodly master rejoiced particularly 
 on seeing one of the wildest boys much reached and tendered. 
 The meeting was a comfortable strengthening one to me, and in 
 the close I prostrated myself in prayer. William Fox told me 
 there was an atheist at Derby meeting, who said there must have 
 been something supernatural attending such a discourse as was 
 delivered there. I presume it is the same one who said he did not 
 think it possible to be so reached by the ministry of any man. 
 'Rejoice not,' says our Saviour, ' in that the devils are made subject 
 unto you, but rather rejoice that your names are written in heaven.' 
 May the Lord have the praise, and man's mouth be laid in the 
 dust, as mine often is. 
 
 " 17th. — To a very large meeting held in a malt-house; it was 
 supposed that not much short of two thousand people were present, 
 and it was an open, solid and satisfactory time, of much enlarge- 
 ment to me ; several persons on coming out expressed their 
 satisfaction, and blessed me in their way; but the Lord have the 
 praise who helped me much. 
 
 " 18th. — In our ride to Lichfield to-day, we saw the place 
 where George Fox was born. 
 
 "19^/*, First-day. — Went to a meeting in a Dissenters' meeting- 
 house ; Friends had it cleaned out and fitted up with scats very 
 conimodiously. The people were slow and long in gathoring, but 
 it was a pretty thorough time, in which I had to mention the 
 
264 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 remarkable circumstance of George Fox's going through their 
 market-place. Dined at the inn with upwards of thirty Friends, 
 and had a singularly tendering opportunity with them, opening the 
 importance of their setting a good example in trade, dealing, &c, 
 after which i felt easy to proceed to Sutton Coldfield, and then to 
 Birmingham. This was a sweet and pleasant ride to me, and I 
 received a full reward at the hands of my Lord and Master, for 
 labouring to fulfil my duty in going the late round, ending at 
 Lichfield. 
 
 " 22nd. — Attended a meeting appointed about a mile and a half 
 out of town, which was large, some of the principal inhabitants 
 being at it, and it proved an open and relieving time, several 
 subjects being treated on, and I trust a solemn alarm sounded. I 
 had to tell them, that however some in our Society were as a stink 
 in. the nostrils of God and man in consequence of their evil con- 
 duct, yet there would be a gathering to this people, for the Lord 
 had raised them up to bear testimony to his truth, and would 
 support them. 
 
 " 23rd. — We set off after seven o'clock, in a post-chaise, and 
 passing through Stratford-on-Avon and Shipston, arrived at Chip- 
 ping Norton, and went to William Atkins', where we found 
 Friends had not appointed a meeting, it being ' lair-day,' and they 
 had held their week-day meeting to-day on this account. The 
 thought struck my mind rather singularly on coming into the town, 
 whether a meeting had been appointed, and I thought if Friends 
 had not done so, that the prospect was likely to be taken away, 
 and so it proved ; for on hearing they had put it off until they 
 saw me, I felt easy to pass on. 
 
 " 2ith. — We got into Oxford about four o'clock, and being 
 unable to procure the town-hall for a meeting, or any place 
 sufficiently large, felt easy to go to High Wycombe, where we 
 arrived on the 25th. 
 
 " 26th, First-day. — Attended meeting and it was a refreshing 
 time of encouragement. I was glad once more to sit quietly for a 
 season amongst a little company of Friends ; after which, botli 
 Mary Pryor and I had religious communication, and considerable 
 brokenness appeared. 
 
 " 29th. — Went to a meeting held in the town-hall at Aylesbury, 
 which was pretty much filled up with people of several descriptions : 
 Mary Pryor opened the service in a short testimony, which had a 
 tendency to quiet the meeting, and I thought it right to avail 
 myself of the opportunity, before any unsettlement again took 
 
1797.] MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 265 
 
 place ; so I stood up in a state of weakness with the words of the 
 most High through the prophet, ' Behold I will send for many 
 fishers, saith the Lord, and they shall fish them ; and I will send 
 for many hunters, and they shall hunt them, from every mountain 
 and from every hill, and out of the holes of the rocks.' It was a 
 very laborious, trying time, and I did not feel that relief and comfort 
 which I have done in some that are over ; however, there were, I 
 hope some tender minds ; in the fore part of my testimony I was 
 led to open the state of a true gospel minister ; and 1 heard after- 
 ward that several priests were present. After dinner we rode to 
 Amersham, which was a mournful ride to me — the land lies open 
 and dreary in these parts and without fences, so also are the minds 
 of many of the people. 
 
 " oQfh. — Feeling no opening this morning to appoint a public 
 meeting, I attended the week-day meeting, which was a quiet com- 
 fortable time, and I hope I was in the way of my duty : after dinner 
 went to Uxbridgc, accompanied by William Hull. I have felt 
 myself little and solitary to-day. My labours since leaving this 
 place several months ago, though they were heavy in the north, 
 yet yielded me peace; and now they appear like a dream. 0! 
 what sorrowful moments, may I not say hours, have I passed at 
 Uxbridge, and now am again here, a poor, helpless servant ; unless 
 my Master is pleased again to givo forth the word of command, 
 and freshly anoint and appoint me to his service. I desire to trust 
 in the Lord, who has been my Helper hitherto, and endeavour to 
 do my allotted duty, that so I may be favoured to dwell in the 
 land of spiritual life, and be fed with food convenient for inc. It 
 has been a dull time with me of late — what next — and where 
 next I is the language of my soul. Is a further baptism necessary 
 to fit me for further labour \ 0 ! the mystery of that way in 
 which a true gospel minister is led and fed. I hope that at least I 
 desire to be still rightly led about and instructed. 
 
 " Twelfth Month 3rd, First-day. — To meeting in very great 
 strippedness and poverty; and got some relief by unfolding some 
 of my prospects in a close line. 
 
 From a letter received from his friend David Brooks, of North 
 Carolina, dated Twelfth Month, 1797, to whom he looked up as 
 a father in the truth, the following extracts arc taken, viz : 
 
 " I received thy cordial letter, dated First Month 31st, 1 797, — 
 I had then obtained a certificate to come northward, and was just 
 coining out of the furnace. I am now at Baltimore, and there 
 
266 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTEHGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 appearing a favourable conveyance, I felt free to inform thee, that 
 through mercy I am yet in the body, and moving about in the 
 exercise of my small gift. This town has lately been visited 
 [with the yellow fever] by Him who remains to bo terrible in 
 judgment as well as glorious in holiness, and fearful in praises. I 
 meet with a remnant in my passing up and down, with whom I 
 have sweet fellowship, and sometimes can join them in weeping, 
 as between the porch and the altar, under a painful sense of the 
 poor, languishing state of the church, with a mental prayer, that 
 the Lord may yet pity his people and spare his heritage. I am 
 often led down into suffering with the pure seed which lies under 
 oppression, and have to speak a word of comfort to the mourners. 
 Dear Charity Cook, I expect, is by this time on that Island, [Great 
 Britain] and if thou meetest her remember my kind love to her, 
 and let her know she has had my sympathy. Dear friend, the 
 length of time, and the distance of the way we are separated, only 
 serves to strengthen the bond of gospel love, in a measure of which 
 I salute thee, with desires that we may always wait at wisdom's 
 gate to feel the fire burn, and the offering prepared and sanctified : 
 for the main-spring that moves everything into action which meets 
 with the approbation of the great Shepherd, who bled for the flock, 
 is in many places very low and weak ; and we well know that 
 nothing but the genuine product of his own Spirit can ever pro- 
 mote Ids glorious cause, in which I trust we have embarked. 
 Many in our land remember thee with great sweetness. Thy 
 letter was seasonable and comforting to me, comin" - at a time when 
 I was ready to cry out in the bitterness of my spirit as Elisha did, 
 when he returned from following his master, who was taken up in 
 the chariot of fire, and smote the water with the mantle and cried 
 out, ' Where is the Lord God of Elijah V Where is that power 
 which cut Rahab and wounded the Dragon, and caused the prophet 
 Habakkuk to tremble, and his lips to quiver ? Glory be to Israel's 
 King for ever, our trials are often sanctified to our growth and ex- 
 perience in the truth : farewell — approve thyself to be a workman 
 in the Holy building, that needeth not to be ashamed.'" 
 
1707.] 
 
 .MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 267 
 
 CHAPTER XIII. 
 
 1707, 1708. RELIGIOUS ENGAGEMENTS IN MIDDLESEX, ESSEX, AND 
 
 KENT — RETURNS TO LONDON GOES AGAIN INTO KENT — WRITES TO 
 
 HIS WIFE — RELIGIOUS SERVICE IN SUSSEX, HAMPSHIRE, SURREY, AND 
 LONDON— EXTRACT FROM A LETTER WRITTEN TO HIS WIFE. 
 
 " 4>th. — I felt easy to go to Tottenham this morning, and found 
 Thomas Home hotter. In the evening a religious opportunity 
 occurred in his sick chamber, in which it seemed to me his removal 
 would not be sudden, and I thought there was yet some further 
 work for him to do, which I expressed. 
 
 " 6th. — This morning I could not help giving vent to my tears, 
 both in my chamber and after coming down stairs, and got a 
 little relief. These things appear too mighty for me ; and really 
 I fear sinking into such a low spot as to think too little of past 
 labours and services ; for surely I must have been helped with a 
 little help from on high, to go through what has been my lot of 
 late months. O ! I could fall prostrate and say, Lord forgive, 
 sanctify and help me over my difficulties. ' Surely it is meet to 
 be said unto God, I have borne chastisement, I will not offend 
 any more. 1 ' That which I see not teach thou me, and if I have 
 done iniquity I will do so no more.' But ah ! who can adopt 
 the last expressions \ it is the Lord alone who can enable any 
 to do it. 
 
 " 7th. — Went to the Monthly Meeting at Tottenham, and to 
 my admiration I felt an opening to religious communication. The 
 meeting for business was truly a very distressing one ; duty ne- 
 glected brings poverty, and what is worse, death. I hope I laboured 
 honestly. 
 
 " 8th. — A wakeful and thoughtful night, and I scattered my 
 tears this morning : when I look onthe right and left, and forward, 
 it seems as if both Friends and the people at large, are wrapped 
 in a thick cloud tbat I cannot como at them, as to any religious 
 service, and the weight of oppression that lays upon me is great. I 
 endeavour to be cheerful at times, and do not show much of my 
 feelings to others, and yet am ready often to say, what shall I do I 
 'I am oppressed ; I am distressed ; 0 Lord ! leave me not, but con- 
 
2G8 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCAT'f EKGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 descend to wash and cleanse, and undertake for me. 1 ' Give ear 
 to my prayer, 0 God ! and hide not thyself from my supplication. 
 Attend unto me and hear me — I mourn in my complaint, and 
 make a noise, because of the voice of the enemy ; because of the 
 oppression of the wicked : for they cast iniquity upon me, and in 
 wrath they hate me. My heart is sore pained within me, and the 
 terrors of death are fallen upon me ; fearfulness and trembling are 
 come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me.' 
 
 " 9th. — Took a lonely walk after breakfast, and on heariug that 
 the vicar of Tottenham is ill, I could not be easy without calling 
 to see him. His wife came down stairs, and was much agitated 
 and affected. I told her that hearing of her husband's illness, I 
 felt love towards him, and could not be easy without calling in, 
 and wished to see him, if it was agreeable. She went up, and 
 after awhile returned, and excused my seeing him at this time, 
 but wished me to call to-morrow. I told her I felt a motion of love 
 in my heart, and found it right to attend to such intimations, and 
 if I felt the same concern I should call again, and so came away. 
 I felt a degree of sweetness attending this manifestation of duty, 
 although in the cross : on returning I met Joseph G. Bevan, and 
 Richard Chester, the latter I informed of a prospect that had been 
 at times on my mind to go to Hertford, and have a public meet- 
 in"' ; and that I thought of goine to-morrow. 
 
 " 10th, First-day. — How can I describe the pangs of exercise 
 and conflict that I felt last night. AVhen I awoke I thought I 
 would endeavour as much as possible to forget and leave the things 
 that are behind, and felt a little more composed. Went to meet- 
 ing under exercise, much humbled, and again had a very close and 
 searching testimony to bear. I was glad to feel the stirrings of 
 life even in this trying way ; and afterwards prostrated in prayer 
 for forgiveness of sins, and for the blessing of preservation. O ! 
 that more in the meeting had felt as I did ! Before dinner I could 
 not feel easy without offering another visit to the parson near 
 Thomas Home's, whom I went to see yesterday, and had not 
 admittance, but now went up into his room, and told him what 
 was on my mind ; he received the visit kindly, and I felt peace. 
 After dinner got to Hertford about five o'clock, and got through 
 the meeting there to satisfaction, and lay down more comfortable. 
 
 " 11th, Second-day. — I hope I can say my soul was humbled 
 on waking this morning, and desirous of renewing my covenant 
 with my God. After a while company came in, but I felt as though 
 I could retire alone and prostrate myself, rather than be in company. 
 
1797.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 269 
 
 " 12th. — A stormy, rainy morning, and my eyes are not open 
 to see the way I am to go, and have been labouring after content- 
 ment. Through favour I have a more quiet mind. 0 ! what a 
 lesson to learn, Thy will be done. It was the subject of my com- 
 munication on First-day evening amongst the people, and may I 
 be favoured more and more to learn it myself; then I humbly 
 trust my bonds will break, and my chains be loosened in due time. 
 A number of Friends came and drank tea with us. I sat with 
 them in silent conflict and sorrow. I was glad to retire, and spent 
 the remainder of the evening in reading William Penn's works, 
 which were sweet to my taste ; and had also some religious con- 
 versation with the son of this family. 
 
 " — 'Who is so blind as thy servant: 1 if I am one of 
 these, it is my duty surely to be content ; for what greater honour 
 can be paid to a master than submitting to his will in all dispensa- 
 tions. Went to the week-day meeting, where I begged for con- 
 descending mercy, that all my giving way, or flinching in my 
 trials, even in thought, might be forgiven ; and when it appeared 
 nearly time to break up, I feared to leave the meeting without 
 telling them that my soul had been let down into the deeps, and 
 that I had seen a time when husband would have to take leave of 
 wife, and wife of husband ; a time such as that spoken of formerly, 
 ' Rachel weeping for her children, and would not bo comforted 
 because they were not; 1 and I called on the youth to renew their 
 covenants with the Lord. I remembered also, and told them, what 
 an enlarged, open time it was to me, the first meeting I was at in 
 this place, and that I did believe there was then present a precious 
 seed, that the good Master saw meet should bo visited ; and now 
 had to call some to mourning, as the true way to a state of re- 
 joicing. When I sat down it appeared as if a little shower or cloud 
 had emptied itself ; so much tenderness appeared. I hope some 
 were baptized, and I left the meeting more lightsome and easy. 
 Dined at Robert Manser's : and the way seemed to open to move 
 on to Chelmsford. 0 ! the very deep plunge my poor soul had 
 there when visiting Essex, and I think it is the only place where 
 I had not a public meeting ; but I sat the meetings on First-day 
 morning and afternoon in silence. 0 Lord ! may I still entertain 
 a hope that it is thy wisdom and power that is leading me about 
 and instructing me; my soul craves ability to look up to thee, 
 and if thou ordainest yet greater trials of my faith and patience, 
 grant thy servant strength to say, Thy will be done. 
 
 44 14$, Fifth-day. — Set off early this morning, accompanied 
 
270 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 by M. Phillips and James JJrown, to Chelmsford. Went round 
 by Waltham Abbey and Epping, and found the waters very high ; 
 passed by one house on the way to Epping surrounded by water. 
 Reached Chelmsford between three and four o'clock, where we 
 stopped at Robert Greenwood's, and I desired Friends to be sent 
 for ; several came, and I told them my wish to have a meeting in 
 the morning at ten o'clock, to which they made objections, saying 
 it was market-day. After night, several country Friends came 
 in, with some others, and began to talk again about the meeting, 
 which I found they had not begun to invite to, except one young- 
 man, who willingly engaged in it, and had rode seven miles out 
 and back to inform a family. I was told that it was not likely 
 the people would come, and there was a fear that Friends would 
 not, but if I was not easy to have a meeting after market, in the 
 afternoon, they would try, but the neighbours were not very free 
 to come, &c. This cast a damp on my prospect, and after sitting 
 some time in silent thought and conflict, I told them the prospect 
 had left me, and I must wait until morning, and so we broke up. 
 
 " \5thi Sixth-day. — After breakfast I felt easy to move on, 
 and got to the ferry opposite Gravesend, twenty-three miles, about 
 three o'clock, but could not get over until night, and then rode 
 seven miles to Rochester. Lodged at Dr. Cowpers, who with his 
 wife and sister received us kindly. 
 
 u \6th. — Yesterday I had thoughts of going to some further 
 meetings, but now it closed up. 
 
 " 17th, First-day. — Sat both meetings in silent conflict. In the 
 evening went to William Hickman's and drank tea, — soon after 
 which I felt a little to communicate to a state among the youth 
 present, as I apprehended, and whilst I was trying to get the littlo 
 company still, others came in, and had like to have prevented me; 
 however, I measurably relieved my mind, and then went into the 
 school-room, and had a pretty full time with the boys. I ventured 
 also to kneel down and pray for the raising up and sending forth 
 of labourers, even from amongst them, to lands afar off, afterwards 
 had a comfortable time with a few young people. 
 
 " — AVent to William Rickman's and spent sometime; 
 after which took a walk for health. 1 also went to see several 
 persons, and at some of the places had religious opportunities. In 
 the evening my mind became exercised to speak to the company, 
 and I was much turned towards the doctor's assistant, a gay, but 
 apparently a goodly young man. 
 
 "2Qth. — Very stripped and poor, and I have need to exercise 
 
1797.] 
 
 MEMOIIiS OV THOMAS SCATTKRGOOD. 
 
 271 
 
 the littlo faith and patience left. I dined at home, and took a 
 lonely walk along the river. 0 ! the oppression and death that I felt. 
 
 " 21s/. — 1 concluded to set off this morning for London ; when 
 I drew near and was entering it, language fails to express tho pangs 
 of my travailing soul. ' Who shall dwell with devouring fire I 
 Who shall dwell with everlasting burning?' I remembered what 
 the royal Psalmist says ; ' Thou wilt not leave my soul in hell.' 
 And at times of late I have been ready to query in myself, is there 
 such a thing possible as to live without faith and without hope I 
 Surely when the latter is deferred it makes the heart sick. Shall 
 I ever more be favoured to witness the annexed part, ' When the 
 desire cometh it is as a tree of life.' I seem as if I knew not what 
 to ask for, without it is patience to bear all, and yet to hope all 
 things. 0 ! may a poor, tried creature say, will it not be better 
 to lay down the life of this body, for many spiritual deaths have 
 been my portion, than to live to dishonour the noble and eternal 
 truth of God, which my soul has espoused. Lord, do according 
 to thy wisdom and mercy ; and 0 ! that thou Avould be pleased to 
 enable me to finish thy work, and if more suffering bo allotted, that 
 it may be for the seed's sake; and preserve thy servant, 0 God! 
 
 " 24th. — Went to the burial Oi Foster Reynolds, at Croydon, 
 and I do not remember when I felt more free from this load of 
 oppression and death, that has so much pressed upon mo, than on 
 the road this morning. I felt a living motion in the meeting, and 
 rejoiced in it, to minister in a very close manner ; and after G. 
 Dillwyn had also been engaged, I bent in supplication. After 
 dinner had a singular, and I trust, profitable opportunity with the 
 children and other relations at tho house of the widow. Some 
 sweetness has been infused in my bitter cup, and I receivo it with 
 gratitude and thankfulness, at my Lord and Master's hand, and 
 beg for becoming patience to bear all things, and hope all things 
 in time to come. I feel an awful calm and solemnity now in being 
 alone. 0 sweet resignation ! what a favour to receive tho counsel 
 of God. 
 
 u 25th. — Rode to London with Thomas Shillitoe, and got there 
 in time to attend the select Quarterly Meeting. I felt a sweet calm 
 and composure on the way, and was very closely exercised in the 
 meeting ; and yet cannot say I felt fully relieved, although pretty 
 comfortable. Went homo with my kind friends, John and Tabitha 
 Be vans, and after dinner had an encouraging, open time in com- 
 munication, especially to tho children. 0 ! how desirable to bo 
 guided in the midst of the paths of judgment and truth. I have 
 my fears, and may they beget a care, and preserve in it. 
 
272 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1797. 
 
 " 26th. — To the Quarterly Meeting, and both in the first and 
 second meeting's I had close and searching things to deliver. O ! 
 my Lord and Master, thou favouredst me a few evenings ago with 
 a precious calm, and the opening of vision again, in which moment 
 my soul reverenced thy name ; and thou gavest me boldness and 
 assurance to plead thy cause once more this day, giving me to see 
 thou hadst not forsaken me, in which my soul rejoiced. 0 ! 
 continue the blessing of preservation, and open the way further to 
 labour in this land, if it be thy will, that I may experience peace 
 in the end. My beloved friend S. H. came into the men's meeting 
 and spread a concern before us to have a meeting appointed for 
 the youth to-morrow at ten o'clock, which was united with, and 
 afterwards prayed for us ; the Lord answer the petition. 
 
 " 21th. — On awaking, and before leaving my chamber, my 
 prayer was for preservation and help this day. Went to the 
 youths' meeting, which was large, and the Friend who was con- 
 cerned to appoint it, was largely opened for a stripling, and 
 favoured, I trust, with sweet peace in an honest discharge of duty 
 — a share also fell on me, with a few expressions also from several 
 of the youth, and I hope and trust it was a solid, instructive time. 
 If it is thy blessed will, 0 Lord ! again to exercise thy servant, 
 gird him about with strength sufficient for the day ; for thou hast 
 enabled me to set up my Ebenezer once more this day, in a public 
 manner. 
 
 " 28th. — This morning a prospect of duty was renewed to hold 
 a public meeting in the evening at Westminster. I went, accom- 
 panied by Joseph Smith, and sat with them in their week-day 
 meeting : G. Dillwyn and Sarah Fairbank were there, and it was 
 a season of encouragement to the weary travellers. The meeting 
 in Westminster meeting-house was large, and 1 thought but a 
 low, laborious time; I could not be easy without inviting the people 
 to come and sit with us on First-day morning next. 
 
 " 29th. — To Clerkenwell meeting for the school children. Here, 
 as often before, I felt openness and some enlargement, and hope 
 my confidence was renewed, and also a willingness to trust my 
 Divine Master in the future steppings along in life, to dispense 
 whatever may be consistent with his will and pleasure ; if I may 
 but be accounted worthy rightly to suffer, and with humility and 
 fear to rejoice. Appointed a meeting to be held here this evening. 
 Went and dined with Joseph Savory's daughters, and believe I 
 was in my place, having a tendering, and I hope, an instructive 
 time with them. A large meeting at six o'clock, and it was an 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 273 
 
 exercising, laborious time, but Friends thought truth gained tho 
 victory ; the people were quiet at the close, and departed so. 
 
 " 31st, First-day. — I am going to Westminster meeting, having 
 invited the people to come and sit with me. O ! for sustaining 
 help to part with my own will, and be given up to tho Divine dis- 
 posal- The meeting was pretty large, and a solid time ; and 1 
 invited them to come again, not to hear preaching, for I told them 
 1 could not do that ; but such as were free to come at six o'clock 
 in the evening, it would be pleasant to see. Dined at Anne 
 Fothergill's, and afterwards had a religious opportunity. The 
 meeting was held long in silence, and was thought to be a solemn 
 one ; and towards the close, a time of instruction in religious com- 
 munication, and the people departed very quietly and solid. 
 
 " 1798, First Month 1st, Second-day. — Had a refreshing night's 
 sleep, and feel a quiet mind this morning, though nothing presents 
 as a religious requiring. Here is the beginning of another year ; 
 and 0 ! if my life is preserved through it, that it may be spent to 
 tho honour and glory of my heavenly Master, Christ Jesus my 
 Lord. Came to Joseph Smith's and heard that John Wright 
 yesterday fell from his horse dead. He was at the burial of Fosi er 
 Reynolds last First-day week, where 1 had to sound a solemn 
 warning to prepare for death, and in a particular manner to the aged. 
 
 " 3rd. — Went to Gracechurch Street meeting low and poor, but 
 had an arousing testimony to bear to some, and encouragement to 
 hand to others. 
 
 " 4th. — Feeling a desire to go to Ratcliff, I gave up to it, and 
 dear Joseph Smith went with me. I dropped my tears in exercise, 
 not only on my own account, but for others, and bent in supplica- 
 tion, and afterwards my line of communication was singular. O 
 gracious Lord! fulfil thy purposes in thy own way and time, and 
 keep thy servant from falling or letting go his faith in thy All- 
 sufficient power and love. Returned home and spent part of the 
 evening in reading Catherine Phillips 1 journal to my kind land- 
 lady, and feel rather lightened of my burden. 
 
 " 5th, Sixth-day. — Attended the Meeting for Sufferings, and it 
 was evident that earthly wisdom prevailed ; may it not be exalted 
 over heavenly ; and yet in the midst, my mind for a small space, 
 was favoured with a comfortable calm, and I saw that a purging 
 time must and would overtake this part of the family. 0! how 
 my soul longs, and has done so before in this city, that ancient 
 simplicity and solidity might be restored. 
 
 " 6th. — My prospects of public meetings dosed with the last on 
 
274 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEKGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 First-day evening ; and it is some encouragement to find that the 
 labour in that was not as water spilt on a stone. A man who sat 
 in the gallery, and for a time was noisy and unruly, went away 
 thoughtful. He had been a great swearer, but has not been heard 
 to use an oath since. In the beginning of the meeting two other 
 men were light and airy, talking, &e., but before it closed tears 
 ilowed from one of them, and others expressed their satisfaction 
 witli the meeting, and admiration at the long solemn silence. The 
 works of the Lord are indeed wonderful and hidden ; — Lord ! con- 
 descend to continue to be the keeper of thy servant, and open the 
 way, in thy way and time, and grant me patience to wait for it. 
 
 " 7th, First-day. — I felt very poor and empty on getting up 
 this morning, but hope I was favoured with a right qualification 
 of mind to beg for help ; ' Give us this day our daily bread." 
 Attended Devonshire House meeting, accompauied by Joseph 
 Smith, which was an open time, and I requested Friends to invite 
 their neighbours. A number came in the afternoon, and I had 
 another open opportunity, and appointed a meeting for strangers 
 on Third-day evening at six o'clock. 
 
 " 9th. — I wont to Devonshire House week-day meeting which 
 was a favoured time. In the evening at six o'clock, attended a 
 large meeting of other societies held there ; the house was full, or 
 nearly so, and I got through to my own peace and satisfaction. 
 Mary Stacey and Margaret Allen, were fellow-labourers with me. 
 
 " \()th. — I went this morning to Peel meeting, and it was a 
 sweet, contemplative season in silence, wherein my faith was 
 renewed. 
 
 « 11th— To Tottenham Monthly Meeting, held at Waltham 
 Abbey, where Ann Christy came with a minute to visit the families 
 of Friends, and Susannah Horno and Sarah Fairbank laid a con- 
 cern to go into the counties of Kent, Surrey and Hampshire, which 
 was united with. 
 
 " Mth, First-day. — I thought it right to go to the Peel meet- 
 ing, where I had a close testimony to deliver. I thought I was a 
 poor creature, but these expressions impressed my mind soon after 
 sitting down in meeting ; ' Let us search and try our ways, 1 &c, 
 and felt a willingness for mine to be so, and endeavoured to examine 
 my own account, and before the meeting closed was engaged to 
 put others in remembrance thereof, believing that the accounts of 
 some present were not in readiness, either inwardly or outwardly, 
 who were too much glued to the world ; and though they loved to 
 hear words, yet it was not pleasant to be searched. The afternoou 
 meeting was nearly silent. 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIHS OF THOMAS SCATTRTiGOOn. 
 
 275 
 
 " 16th. — Went to Devonshire House meeting, and soon after 
 Sitting down my mind became calm and comfortable. I was con- 
 cerned to labour in an encouraging line, to my own comfort, and 
 I hope that of others, particularly the youth. 
 
 " 17th. — I went to the Peel meeting, desirous to be in the way 
 of duty, and if any thing should open towards inviting the people 
 at large, I felt resigned. It was silent, and my way closed up. 
 
 " 18^7*. — Went to Ratcliff, which was a small meeting, and I 
 bad to persuade some to more faithfulness in little things. Went 
 to T. H.'s and dined, and had a serious opportunity with him and 
 wile. I hope and trust he is growing in the root under deep exer- 
 cise. 0 ! may ho be kept under it the Lord's time, and may his 
 companion give up to be his helper. 
 
 " 19th. — To Meeting for Sufferings. I thought there was a 
 sweetness and solemnity spread in the gathering, and silent fore 
 part ; but it was not preserved and kept to. I found a time near 
 l bo close to relieve my mind, and it opened a door for J. Of. 13ovan 
 and George Dillwyn to do the same, and we were favoured in the 
 close ; for which I was thankful. 
 
 " 21st, First-day. — To Devonshire House meeting, which was 
 pretty much crowded by many strangers, and proved an open 
 enlarged opportunity ; several came and spoke tenderly and affec- 
 tionately to me after meeting, and one pretty finely dressed but 
 goodly man, taking me by the hand, said ; ' the Lord send forth 
 more such preachers and prosper his work :' may it be so say I 
 also, for the praise belongs to him. The afternoon meeting was 
 put off to three o'clock — man)- people came again, and much labour 
 fell on me, to the spending of my strength and voice. In the even- 
 ing I was informed that dear Mary Home died about two o'clock. 
 
 " 22nd. — A pretty comfortable night's sleep ; and on waking, 
 my thoughts were soon turned to my afilicted Tottenham friends, 
 and bearing of an opportunity to go and see them, I embraced it ; 
 nothing opening in London, I have concluded to stay, my voice 
 being much gone by yesterday's exertions in part, and with the 
 remains of a cold. 
 
 " 23rd. — Had a wakeful tossing night ; doubts and fears ac- 
 companying my weakness and infirmities, and I feared some of 
 them prevailed too much, for which I was much abased. Had an 
 opportunity with the surviving parent and all the children after 
 dinner, but in much weakness, and I could hardly speak. 
 
 " 24-th. — Tears were my meat this morning on rising from my 
 bed, with strong cries ; clouds of distress gather about me, and 
 
 r t2 
 
276 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCA.TTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 nothing short of Omnipotent help can preserve me to the end. 0 ! 
 how empty and poor I feel ; yes, such was my exercise, that I 
 was ready to look on myself as vile, and yet I may not reproach 
 or reflect on my Divine Master. Silence, then, ye troubling 
 thoughts, and may my soul possess a calm, more so than has fre- 
 quently of late been experienced, and be found yet a learner in the 
 school of Christ, which only fits for gospel ministry. I spent a 
 part of this evening in reading a work, wherein I found this remark 
 on a passage of scripture, that took my attention ; ' Then did they 
 spit in his face and buffeted him : and others smote him with the 
 palms of their hands :' Matthew xxvi. 67. This is incontestable 
 truth ; he who is now sitting at the right hand of God ; he whom 
 all the angels adore ; he who could say, ' Behold ! at my rebuke 
 
 I dry up the sea, I make the rivers a wilderness : I 
 
 clothe the heavens with blackness, and I make sackcloth their 
 covering,' Isaiah 1. 3, 4, fulfils the words of an ancient prophecy ; 
 ' I gave my back to the siniters, and my cheeks to them that 
 plucked off the hair : I hid not my face from shame and spitting 
 ' He whose name is unutterable, suffered himself to be ill-treated, 
 in the most shameful, agonizing and disgusting manner, by the 
 meanest wretches, and he was silent : no ray of his Omnipotence 
 struck his creatures dead. He concealed the power which created 
 worlds. What feelings suffice to adore in a proper manner the 
 greatness of that Divine virtue. 1 I admire at the way in which I 
 go shut up here from day to day. My voice is much gone in 
 consequence of a cold and exertion of late in speaking. When I 
 examine and look back, I cannot find that my mind has shrunk or 
 turned away from revealed duty, and yet what fears and cares 
 accompany me lest the truth should be evilly spoken of by my 
 means. This family is in a state of mourning, and I am comforted 
 and instructed in seeing and feeling such quiet, and such tenderness 
 manifested to the surviving parent, who is preserved calm, and 1 
 hope resigned to his allotment. 0! may the Lord prepare to open 
 the way for me a poor servant, and grant me a sufficient portion of 
 faith and patience to endure what may yet be to come. 
 
 " 25ih. — My cold and sore throat are better, and I feel measur- 
 ably resigned to my present state ; nothing opens but to attend the 
 week-day meeting here to-day, and wait to accompany the remains 
 of my friend to the meeting on First-day next. In her life-time 
 she owned me for a child, and as a mother sympathized with me 
 under my trials, and her memory is precious. O ! that all her 
 children may walk in the truth, and in the end of time close their 
 days in peace. 
 
179S.J 
 
 MEMO IR.S OF THOMAS SCATT1CRG00D. 
 
 277 
 
 " 2&h. — I spent my time to-day in extracting some parts of 
 holy scripture. Afterwards walked in the garden for health 
 and meditation ; I thought if there is nothing in such stops as 
 this, surely then my faith and hope in the Divine Arm are vain: 
 1 cannot, I dare not, give up to believe so. 0 ! then grant me 
 patience, with all other necessary virtues to endure ; for thou 
 only, 0 Lord ! canst turn my wilderness into a fruitful field at thy 
 pleasure. 
 
 "27th. — One word dropped last evening was an affliction to me. 
 If for every idle word which man shall speak he must give an 
 account, how awful is the reckoning. 0 ! that 1 could arrive at 
 a more fixed habit of righteousness and purity of heart ; for 
 blessed are such, they shall enjoy greater union and communion 
 with God. What are words or such memorandums as these, 
 but as mementos to look back at. They are made in much sim- 
 plicity, sometimes, it may be frequently, not remembering what 
 passed yesterday, or not looking back to ascertain. I desire to be 
 more industrious, and improve the time in these stops from travel- 
 ling and ministerial labour. Singular indeed have been the stops 
 and stays I have experienced in this land, and even in this house. 
 O Lord ! break or loosen the chain that has held me ; not in my 
 time and will, but in thine ; and preserve my poor soul from sink- 
 ing under the temptations, conflicts and trials that have so long 
 been permitted to assail. 0 ! Fountain of mercy and life, didst 
 thou not enable thy servant, when leaving that comfortable dwelling 
 thou affordest me, parent, wife and children, and all, to follow thee 
 whithersoever thou might be pleased to lead, and into what thou 
 might be pleased to appoint — 0 ! then forsake me not. 
 
 " 28th, First-day. — I rose with more calmness than some- 
 times of late. After breakfast walked the garden until some of 
 the relations came to attend the burial ; I followed the remains of 
 the deceased to Tottenham meeting, where my mind was exercised 
 and impressed with weight which soon ripened into duty, after 
 sitting down amongst a large company. The language of our 
 Saviour to those who did not understand what the woman was 
 doing in anointing his head with the precious ointment, was pre- 
 sented as the subject to begin with, viz : ' Why trouble ye the 
 woman, for she hath wrought a good work upon me. For in that 
 she poured the ointment on my body, she did it for my burial. 1 
 What a small service is acceptable when performed in sincerity, 
 though at (lie same time with a trembling hand and heart. I saw 
 no opening after meeting to go to the ground in Southwark, 
 
278 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SUATTERGOOI). 
 
 [1798. 
 
 but returned liouie, where I found the husband and daughter 
 Martha. 
 
 " 29th. — A great favour 1 thought to feel so quiet and such a 
 degree of renewed comfort extended ; my mind was gathered into 
 a calm this morning. I record it as a favour thus to feel, and yet 
 do I not fall short of that resignation which receives all dispen- 
 sations with becoming cheerfulness at the hand of the Lord. 0 ! 
 I hope, I trust, my soul has been secretly supported above mur- 
 muring or repining, though it is trying to walk in darkness and 
 sec but little light. Praise the Lord, 0 my soul ! through all, and 
 forget not the benefits bestowed. As I walked the garden after 
 breakfast, a prospect was renewed which had fastened on my mind 
 in a time of prostration in my chamber, viz : to join company 
 with those females (S. H. andS. F.) and begin where they left off 
 some weeks ago, and lay the prospect before J. B. to accompany 
 me. My heart leaped for joy within me in the prospect of a way 
 opening into further labour, because he that laboureth, or reapeth, 
 receiveth wages and gathereth fruit unto everlasting life. May 
 my soul delight in doing the Lord's work so long as strength and 
 faculties permit, and until the great Lord of the harvest may be 
 pleased to say it is enough. 
 
 " 30th. — The same prospect opened as yesterday morning on 
 rising, and I left my chamber more cheerful. My soul craves 
 preservation through all, and that I may not be permitted to mar 
 the work. Went to town, and on going to Devonshire House 
 meeting, found my friend and neighbour, William Savery, there. 
 It was a silent meeting — went with him to Joseph Savory's and 
 dined. 
 
 " Slst. — To Gracechurch Street meeting ; dear George Dillwyn, 
 I (bought, had a sweet time, and I ventured to prostrate myself 
 in prayer, and my faith was renewed. 
 
 " /Second Month 1st. — Felt content at home, when I received 
 letters from my dear wife and mother. They were of an old date, 
 but enclosed in one from my son, dated First Month 1st, acceptable 
 tokens of remembrance. In the afternoon accompanied by J. &., 
 went to the burial of the widow Perry, and had to hand forth a 
 little in much weakness. 
 
 " 4:th, First-day. — Went to Gracechurch Street meeting, and 
 again was exercised in a very close testimony to the great and gay, 
 &c. ; after afternoon meeting, in which I was silent, went to a 
 burial in Bunhill Fields, and felt an exercise while standing at the 
 grave to address the children, a number of whom were there. 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEM OIKS OF THOMAS SCATTEUGOOD. 
 
 279 
 
 " 5th, — Much exercised this morning whether to go with George 
 Dillwyn to Chelmsford, &c, or move on towards Rochester with 
 S. H. and S. F. After a time of conflict and going through a 
 little piece of mortifying service, though there was hut little time 
 to get ready, yet by seeing about it in earnest I soon accomplished 
 it, and set oft' about two o'clock with them and William Forster, 
 and got into Rochester about nine or ten o'clock, a distance of 
 thirty miles. I put up at my old quarters, Dr. Cowper's, and the 
 women at William Rickman's ; still under much exercise and 
 impression of mind. 
 
 " &h. — Attended the Monthly Meeting, and my two friends I 
 thought spoke to the state of the meeting, and it was my lot again 
 to sit in silent conflict, but before the business was concluded I 
 laboured amongst the men. 
 
 " 7th. — Our women inclining to go to the week-day meeting at 
 Canterbury, and two chaises being provided, I drove one, and R. 
 W. the other; we had a very fine warm day, and got to William 
 Elgar's a little after night, and were kindly received. 
 
 " 8th. — Was favoured with a degree of sweet calm in the morn- 
 ing before I rose. Attended the week-day meeting, which was 
 very small, and I laboured among them in poverty as well as 1 
 could. S. F. had a short testimony, and S. H. closed in prayer. I 
 hope it was a meeting to some profit, or may prove so in days to 
 come, if the fault is not their own ; returned to our quarters 
 and dined. 
 
 " 9th. — Rode to Rochester twenty-six miles, and soon after 
 arriving John Bevans came, in order to accompany me. In the 
 evening dropped into silence, in which I ventured to labour amongst 
 the company, and in particular, was turned towards a young mar- 
 ried couple. Ah ! how very poor and stripped I feel of later days, 
 and admire that any good thing should arise out of it. 
 
 "lltf/t. — Sat the morning meeting silent; my two sisters 
 laboured in a close manner, but I sat in usual poverty. Dined at 
 William Cowper's, and afterwards wo all stepped in to see T. 
 White and daughter, and my mind was so clothed with sympathy 
 as not to be easy without expressing it. Soon after I sat down in 
 the afternoon meeting, a thought impressed me that perhaps I 
 might soon be enabled to relieve my mind amongst Friends, and 
 then desire them to go to the dock-yard and invite the people 
 there, and others, to come ; but I had to conftict with my exercise 
 a considerable time. O ! how my own infirmity came up and 
 stared me in the face, and it was hard work to get at any thing. 
 
280 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 At last I ventured to labour, and that in a close line for the most 
 part, with some encouragement to the visited ones ; and also with 
 the children : this meeting held late. Drank tea at Robert Hors- 
 naill's, Jun., and afterwards went to the school, where I had some 
 communication to the boys ; but that which gave me most ease of 
 mind, was what I had afterwards to say to the female servants in 
 the family, who came and sat with us, together with a tender 
 young person who keeps shop for William Horsnaill. O Lord ! if 
 it is thy will that I should go on further, be pleased to accompany 
 me and bear up my mind, and preserve it subjectly given up to 
 thy will, through what is yet to be met'with. 0 ! that of living 
 without carefulness, as the lilies of the field grow, and to depend 
 on Him who feeds the ravens : what greater blessing ! I some- 
 times endeavour to encourage others so to do, and yet how poor 
 and feeble in my own particular. 
 
 " 12th. — Set off about seven o'clock, and put up at William 
 Marsh's at Folkstone, soon after which, came in J oseph Elgar, his 
 sister and several others, with whom I had a religious opportunity 
 — pretty open. 
 
 " 1 3th. — To the Monthly Meeting, in which my mind was 
 opened and enlarged in testimony, and found work also in the 
 business part, I hope to some profit. In the evening had one for 
 the neighbourhood, which was largely attended ; and after sitting 
 about two hours in silence, I stood up in weakness and poverty 
 and laboured amongst them. 
 
 " lith. — Friends were so kind as to send us to Dover in a post- 
 chaise. After dining at Richard Baker's, a number of us took a 
 walk along the sea-shore as far as the castle, &c. I feel poor and 
 oppressed, although I am in a sweet family and comfortable as to 
 them. How often is this language uppermost, and is it not 
 necessary for me : ' Wash me in the laver of regeneration. - ' 
 
 " 15th. — I have a pleasant lodging room next the sea, and some 
 serious reflections impressed my mind this morning. I remem- 
 bered what S. C. says concerning outward defence and armies ; 
 and on mentioning it to my host, he told me he often thought of 
 it. Went to meeting, and I sat in silence nearly or quite two 
 hoars ; my female friends, Richard Baker and daughter Mary, 
 with William Rickman, all had communications; and at last I 
 stood up with a few expressions, comparing myself to Obadiah, 
 who fed the Lord's prophets in a cave, and my condition seems 
 like going into a cave to visit the honest seed which lies hid. My 
 mind was pretty much opened and enlarged, and the meeting was 
 
179S.J 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 281 
 
 in a comfortable solid state, and I hope ended so. Dined at R. 
 B.'s, and felt poorly after dinner. O! that I maybe preserved 
 worthy to have the Divine will accomplished in and by me, in 
 what may yet be to come. My way home in the right time, is 
 what my sonl seeks and craves at the Divine hand, as has in 
 mercy been granted in former journeys in the land of my 
 nativity.' 1 
 
 The following is an extract from a letter to his wife, dated ; 
 
 " Dover, Second Month 16th, 1798. 
 
 " My dear, 
 
 " The sympathetic feelings expressed in thy last letter were 
 comfortable, and there is yet reason to continue them, as my path 
 still differs from most of my fellow-labourers in this land. 1 went 
 as far north as 1 could see my way with clearness, and it was 
 admirable to me, that in attending the two Quarterly Meetings at 
 Kendal and Cockcrmouth, I felt such enlargement of heart, that 
 it appeared pretty clear to me I should not be required to visit all 
 the particular meetings ; and so it turned out. After those 
 meetings were over I felt quite easy to go towards London and its 
 neighbourhood ; and with thankfulness I may acknowledge, my 
 way was made prosperous, and in some places I experienced much 
 enlargement ; but on approaching the before-mentioned place, I 
 thought it seemed like going down again into suffering ; and may 
 1 not add, into death. My last letter, by Mary Pryor, was 
 written at her house. She was in London waiting to embark ; 
 and while there I experienced a season which, amongst many 
 others passed through, is worthy to be remembered. From thence 
 I passed into Essex, to Chelmsford, thinking to have a meeting 
 there, it being the only place [or meeting] in that county where I 
 omitted having a public one when I visited Friends ; and here again 
 I missed my aim, and felt easy to move on without it for the 
 present, a little circumstance turning up that put it by. We 
 crossed over the river Thames at Gravesend, and rode after night 
 to Rochester, about seven miles, and about thirty from London, 
 and put up at William Oowper's. I had thoughts of going on to 
 the further end of this county, to places 1 have lately been at, but 
 my way closed up. I was in a low, exercised state, and remained 
 over their First-day meetings, and until the middle of the week 
 following, — silent in the meetings, and shut up. At length way 
 opened to go back to the great city, into which I entered under a 
 load of conflict, but was kindly received by my dear friends J. and 
 
282 
 
 MEM01HS 01- THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 E-. Smith. Here I spent .several days, and hearing of the hurial 
 of Foster Reynolds, about ten miles out of London, my way opened 
 to attend it. The corpse was taken into the Meeting-house, and 
 after being shut up, in meeting after meeting, for several days, I 
 was favoured with what I thought rather a powerful opening, to 
 reason with some as Paul did with Felix; and afterwards obtained 
 much relief in an opportunity in the family of the deceased, and 
 felt very calm, with much sweetness of mind in the evening. A 
 few days after came on the Quarterly Meeting for London, which 
 I felt my mind pressed to attend, and trust I was in my place. 
 Since then I have been carefully feeling my way to appoint public 
 meetings in London, a service which never opened before ; and in 
 several places I have been helped through, I trust, so as not to 
 dishonour the cause. Thou wilt find by mine by Mary Pry or, 
 that I had been spending some days at Tottenham, my kind friend 
 T. H. having been, in the apprehension of the family, near death's 
 door. I found him on the recovery, and indeed I did believe he 
 would be restored to his family, and told them my thoughts, but 
 with respect to his dear, weakly wife, it was hid from me. She 
 appeared uncommonly well during his illness, and after that 
 flagged and failed, and slipped away almost at unawares from 
 them, but I trust as a shock of corn fully ripe. She was a sympa- 
 thizer with me in my exercises, and 1 loved her; and it fell to my 
 lot to be at the meeting to which her remains were taken, First 
 Month 28th. 
 
 " I had this prospect of visiting Kent, &c, when at Sheffield, 
 and have made the second attempt to do so. I am now in company 
 with Susannah Home and Sarah Fairbank, who had mentioned 
 their prospect to the Monthly Meeting, of going this journey into 
 the counties of Kent, Sussex and Hampshire, before the decease 
 of Mary Home. We have been to several meetings together; and 
 whether I shall go any further than through this county, and 
 then return back to London, I cannot see at present. Things are 
 very low in some places, and my mind is low also, and I have 
 been comparing my state to that of Obadiah, whose work was to 
 feed the prophets in the cave. It is trying work to go as into 
 the earth, and into caves and rocks, but I labour after a qualifi- 
 cation daily to say, ' Thy will, and not mine be done.' I have 
 John Bevans, the Friend at whose house I made my home last 
 winter in London, when visiting families, as a companion, who is 
 a valuable elder of Peel meeting. I am now at Richard Baker's 
 at Dover, and while taking a walk before breakfast tins morning 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF TIIOiMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 283 
 
 along - the sea coast, I could sec the French shore, and my mind 
 was pretty strongly turned towards home, but there is a great sea 
 between us, so I must try to bound my thoughts, and bear with 
 patience the painful conflicts that will arise. 0 ! that it may be 
 with' becoming patience, considering that if it is the Lord's will, 
 he can as safely conduct me back, as lie brought me here ; whose 
 will is our sanctification, and unto whose Almighty protection and 
 help I am desirous of commending thee, my dear wife, my aged 
 mother, children, relations and friends, who am thy exercised and 
 oft tried husband, 
 
 " Thomas Scattkrgood." 
 
 " \ lth. — 1 felt in a low state this morning, and saw no opening 
 to move this day. We dined at Deborah Beck's, and had a 
 religious opportunity, in which I had divers things to express to 
 different states, from the aged grandmother to the grandchild, 
 and was also turned rather particularly to an apprentice. I felt 
 some liberty last evening and this morning, to give some account 
 of my travels in America, with a degree of cheerfulness attending; 
 and I think dear 11. B. is considerably raised out of a very low 
 state, in which we found him. Saw this afternoon a fleet of up- 
 wards of one hundred vessels off the harbour, going down the 
 channel. 
 
 " lS(h, First-day. — Bonds and afflictions still continue to await 
 me. I heard yesterday that my friend and brother William 
 Savery is likely to go for Liverpool in less than two weeks, in 
 order to embark for home. I see no opening, and very little ahead 
 in this land, so after endeavouring to lift up my soul in prayer to 
 God, not to be forsaken in the midst of trials and temptations I 
 have to conflict with, and for ability to cast myself on the mighty 
 Helper, whose providence is extended over the whole earth, I arose 
 under exercise; cast down but 1 hope not forsaken. Went to the 
 morning and afternoon meetings, and laboured in both, as also did 
 my fellowdielpers : spent the evening at home — a number of 
 Friends oamo in and we had a religious opportunity. My com- 
 panion told me that there was at meeting on Fifth-day last, a 
 person who had been heard to say, that he could make Scripture ; 
 and in the course of my communication I made use of the same 
 expression, signifying the possibility of getting into such a depraved 
 state, as to be bold enough not only to deny that good book, but 
 even to speak on this wise. I had to labour to dissuade another 
 from the spirit of war and fighting ; he was closely spoken to, and 
 
284 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 his condition opened. Yesterday was a laborious one, and close 
 work. 
 
 " Vdih. — I have had close exercise in this place, but my little 
 room next the sea has been in degree like the prophet's room. My 
 body has been refreshed, and this morning my mind also, in good 
 degree. After breakfast R. Baker had the two women and I apart, 
 and handed forth some seasonable advice to those young plants to 
 encourage them ; and I had a good time on parting, mostly 
 addressed to Richard's wife. "Wc stopped at Sandwich to dine, and 
 arrived at Margate before night. 
 
 " 20th. — No way opened towards a meeting, so we visited all 
 the members in their houses. 
 
 " 21 — Felt so poorly this morning that I thought of lying in 
 bed, but I struggled along, and after breakfast we had a sitting, in 
 which I was engaged in a very close line, and again before we set 
 off, in an encouraging way to three of the widow Newby's children : 
 I felt great relief of mind. The ride of seventeen miles to Canter- 
 bury was a sweet one to me. O ! the works of the Lord are 
 wonderful ! Last evening I admired that I could not relieve my 
 mind in the widow's family, and this morning several of the 
 children were cast in my way. So it was with regard to two 
 other states, and they were also brought in my way. When I met 
 with J. N. at the burial of Samuel Spa void, she was in much gaiety 
 as her sisters now are, and now she appears to be an ornament to 
 society; and I hope her next sister is coining on in her footsteps. 
 Went to Ashford, thirty miles, and arrived a little after night. 
 
 " 22w<£. — There was but a small company at meeting: I stood 
 up first, and addressed some aged persons present, with desires 
 that they might be ready to give up their account when called for. 
 S. H. had a good time, much in the same line, and S. F. was con- 
 cerned in supplication. Afterwards I requested that such as were 
 not members would withdraw, and had something for the younger 
 class ; and again desiring a further selection, I got pretty fully 
 relieved. To the meeting this morning came T. F., about thirty 
 years old, who some time after the expiration of his apprenticeship 
 entered into the army, and was disowned by that meeting. He 
 was also with us in the evening, and all of us were favoured to 
 hand forth instructive remarks tu him. He put a letter into my 
 hands this morning, from which it appears that he is under great 
 exercise of mind, and says I was favoured to find him out in meet- 
 ing and in the sitting afterwards. My soul craves that he may be 
 favoured rightly to get through his present conflict, and in days 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SO ATTETCGOOO . 
 
 285 
 
 to come make a valuable, useful member of society. Yesterday 
 and last evening I endeavoured to feel my way respecting going 
 into a neighbouring county, remembering the exercise I passed 
 through previous to entering this ; but as my Divine Master has 
 favoured with evidences of being right so far, I felt encouraged to 
 proceed into Sussex, and this day am pretty comfortable. 
 
 " 2-ith. — We set off between eight and nine o'clock, and a more 
 stormy, rainy ride I have not had, I think in this land : put up at 
 Richard Hickman's, Lewes. In the afternoon my prospects were 
 more clouded, but on the whole am pretty comfortable this evening. 
 
 " 25th, First-day. — Went to meeting and found it was the day 
 on which they hold their preparative meeting, and have no meet- 
 ing in the afternoon. 1 have been concerned about the practice of 
 holding such meetings on First-day ; however, I thought it right 
 to endeavour to sec it out, and as I felt nothing to communicate 
 in the first, I proposed that men and women should sit together, 
 and hear the queries read and answered, as it was previous to 
 Quarterly and Yearly Meetings. I sat pretty quietly until that 
 concerning plainness, &c, came on ; the clerk made a modest 
 answer, but one or two whose appearance did not strike me plea- 
 santly, even to the outward eye, proposed that it should be more 
 full, and say, generally careful. I felt much on this occasion, and 
 indeed before, and had to query who there was amongst them that 
 looked like Friends, with more of a very close nature. 
 
 " 26th. — To breakfast with S. C, and had a sitting with her 
 and two daughters ; both our female Friends had a pretty full 
 opportunity, and 1 had also to address one of them in a few words. 
 To — 's, where S. F. had most of the labour ; after the opportu- 
 nity was over, she said she felt comfortable, &c. ; which afforded 
 me an opportunity to tell her that I wished it was otherwise; for 
 how could any rightly concerned Friend feel comfortable, when the 
 walla and gates of Zion were laid waste, as in this place. To C. 
 S.'s, where much ignorance and rawness appeared; but 1 was en- 
 joined to be tender, remembering the words of the Apostle, ' On 
 .some have compassion making a difference.' To J. R.'s, where we 
 dined, and had an opportunity ; the labour fell on my two friends. 
 0 ! the stripped state I have been in to-day ; so mournful and 
 heavy that 1 could have broken away from my company and gone 
 into the fields alone, to pour out my soul. 1 ' 
 
 in a letter addressed to his son, dated Second Month 27th, 
 1798, at Lewes, he says : 
 
286 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 " I am labouring' along in much weakness, and perhaps I may 
 safely add, at seasons in fear and trembling. Things are very low 
 in some places, and I have to go down as into the grave ; yet in 
 some others, there has been a happy resurrection into life, and 
 sweet peace, and my soul is thankful for the preservation experienced 
 so far. May thou, my dear son, increase in the increases of thy 
 Heavenly Father's love, is the desire of thy father." 
 
 " 28th. — Went to meeting, where I was shut up in silence. 
 Rode to Brighton to John Glaisyer's, — felt more comfortable on the 
 road. Wo had a sitting after supper, in which I had considerable 
 to communicate, and felt love to this family, and liberty and ease 
 in it. We walked to see the sea by moonlight, which was a very 
 beautiful sight. This town is situated on the bank near the sea. 
 
 " Third Month 1st. — We all took a walk before meeting along 
 the sea-side. It was a pensive and mournful one to me : at meet- 
 ing all of us were silent. Several Friends dined with us, after 
 which I broke away and strolled along the sea-coast. O me, what 
 a walk ! The Lord hid his face, and my soul was troubled. 
 
 " 2nd. — I am upwards of three thousand miles from my family, 
 and a wanderer in the fields, to seek relief, by endeavouring to 
 prostrate myself before the Lord. I took a solitary walk before 
 dinner, and felt no opening to go into the families, or to appoint a 
 meeting. How am 1 wrapped about with darkness and sorrow, and 
 can have little delight in what many, it is to be feared, freely in- 
 dulge in, at this place so noted for pleasure. 
 
 " 3rd. — I omitted to mention that last evening we sat in J. G.'s 
 family ; he being in the practice of calling them together and sit- 
 ting down with them two evenings in the week. My companions 
 had something to offer, and I was glad of such a quiet opportunity. 
 
 " I arose this morning under exercise, and after breakfast, set 
 off, accompanied by J. G. and rode to Arundel, twenty miles : 
 put up at the widow Sarah Home's. I laboured after resignation 
 on the road, having endeavoured to sec and feel my way to this 
 place before I set off. May I be favoured to bear with patience 
 the burden that continues on me, until it be removed, for I do not 
 see that I can remove it. ' All the days of my appointed time will 
 I wait, until my change come.'' AVhat could afflicted Job do better 
 than to form such a resolution as this. Soon after getting into 
 this place, J. IJcvans and J. Glaisyer and I, took a walk along the 
 river, and on our way home went into the castle gate. This is the 
 castle where Mary Penington's first husband was ill, when she 
 
1 798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTEItftOOD. 
 
 287 
 
 went to him. Soon after wo got into the yard wo met the owner, 
 the Duke of Norfolk, who hehaved very courteously, and bid his 
 servant show us inside the house, &c. I informed him where I 
 came from, and he took mo to see a stuffed moose, which he said 
 came from my country. 
 
 " ifh, First-day. — Anight of labour and some pain. I thought 
 myself a poor creature on awaking, having little or no prospect of 
 being favoured to do anything this day in a religious way ; how- 
 ever, endeavoured to wash and anoint. It was the time of their 
 holding both the meeting of ministers and elders, and also the 
 Monthly Meeting ; the first began at nine o'clock, and held until 
 near eleven ; the Monthly Meeting began at eleven, and hold late. 
 There was some opening to labour in both ; in the fore part of the 
 second meeting a number of town's-people came in, and after S. P. 
 had addressed her fellow-professors, I felt my mind drawn forth in 
 love to the others ; and as she had mentioned the situation of 
 Naaman, I believed it right to revive it again, and hope to some 
 profit. They behaved solidly, and Friends were desired to stop, 
 both men and women, and I thought S. H. had a good time 
 amongst them. J. Bevans and I also laboured, 1 hope to some 
 profit, in the business part, and the meeting ended well. Dined at 
 Sarah Home's with a considerable number of Friends, and was 
 favoured afterwards with a conspicuously baptizing time. This was 
 cause of admiration to me, who for days past have been so wrapped 
 up as in a cloud. 0 Brighton ! shall I soon forget my feelings, my 
 humbling, bitter feelings in thee I Went afterwards with the 
 company to see Tryphena Halloway, a widow near one hundred 
 and two years' of age. She had just gone to bed, but we were 
 admitted up to see her, and I was glad to find so much sensibility, 
 and such a thankful heart for favours received. It was to my 
 admiration, and a treat to mo to sit by such a fellow-pilgrim so far 
 advanced in age. It is said sho well remembers William Penn. 
 
 " 5th. — Went to Chichester, accompanied by John Glaisyer, 
 where we attended the burial of Mary Heath, who lived in Friends' 
 Meeting-house : after the corpse was laid in the ground, Friends 
 retirod into the Meeting-house, and it was pretty much filled up 
 with people of other societies. Soon after wo wore gathered, I 
 thought there was a silence and a degree of solemnity prevailed, 
 and S. H. appoared in prayer, — S. F. in a lively little testimony. 
 Afterwards much unsettlcment appeared, and my mind was plunged 
 very low, perhaps in part on my own account, and partly for the 
 people. When we broke up the meeting, with much feebleness 1 
 
288 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 requested the little company of Friends to stop, and I hope it 
 proved a time of baptism. Wo dined with James Hack, Sen., and 
 after dinner my mind was again engaged to minister; and I thought 
 if it was a living bud or branch, it sprang up suddenly out of the 
 dry and barren ground. This is a mystery ; that I should at times 
 feel, in my own apprehension, so wretched and miserable, loaded 
 with, or surrounded by temptation, and yet be made instrumental 
 to bring others into tears and tenderness. Well, the Lord have 
 the praise of his own work. 
 
 " 6th. — My heart is measurably thankful. O ! for sustaining 
 help to carry me through, and bear up my drooping mind over all 
 the conflicts yet to be met with. This one day more may bread 
 sufficient to keep alive, and a little portion of peace be my lot ; and 
 0 ! that the same may be the portion of all my companions in 
 labour, and that we may be safely directed in the work we are 
 engaged in, whether to go forward or back, whether to stay together 
 or separate. We went to see all the families in this place, and my 
 mind is more lifted up above my trials that I have experienced for 
 some time past. In some families we had pretty close labour. 
 
 " 7th.— Went to Brighton to the Monthly Meeting. On the 
 road I lagged behind, and had a quiet, thoughtful time. It is the 
 day appointed for a general fast, so called, and for humiliation for 
 the sins of the nation ; but to me it is a little like the lifting up 
 of the head ; I have had many fasting, humbling seasons since 
 coming into this land. 
 
 " The just are to live by faith : 0 ! that I may yet be favoured 
 to live by a measure thereof. Very little pleasant bread have I 
 eaten for three years and upwards, and it is good to be content, 
 well knowing the Almighty can cause a change of feelings at his 
 pleasure ; lie can change the dispensation as a water-course is 
 turned in a field. 0 ! for watchfulness and care in stepping along, 
 that the Divine will may be done in and by mo, a poor, unworthy 
 servant. 
 
 " We got to Brighton before night ; put up at J. Glaisyers. 
 
 " 8th. — The Monthly Meeting was very small : I counted about 
 twelve men after the women left. At the close I felt a little matter 
 to arise, and stopped those who were going away ; it was stagger- 
 ing work, but a little increase of strength was given me, and there 
 appeared to be an increase of weight: after I had closed S. H. 
 had a pretty good time. Things are very low in this place, and 
 we endeavoured to lend a helping hand. 
 
 " 2th. — Took a walk to the sea before breakfast and feel re- 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 289 
 
 freshed : we proposed setting off for Horsham, but our friend S. 
 H. is poorly. After breakfast felt so much love to spring up 
 towards William Savery, as to induce me to sit down and write to 
 him. Took another lonely walk along Brighton shore, in which 
 my thoughts were turned over the sea, and my soul craves the 
 continuation of the protecting power and providence of God. 
 Man knows not my tried state ; and when I view it, I am brought 
 into a degree of trembling, and were it not that the fountain of 
 mercy remains open to wash in, I should fail ; but of late I have 
 remembered the promise made me on setting off on this journey 
 as a little inward intimation. The remainder of this day I thought 
 but a broken one. J. G. sat down with his family in the evening, 
 and a number of neighbours came in, but to me there appeared 
 neither dew nor rain. 
 
 " 10th. — We all set off accompanied by our kind friend J. G. 
 as guide, to Horsham, twenty miles. I seemed refreshed in my 
 body with the ride, but it has been a dull time otherwise, since 
 making the above note on the sea-shore. 
 
 " 11th, First-day. — I fear that I let my tongue go too freely in 
 conversation last evening, considering my state. What need of 
 watchfulness, circumspection and care ! I hope my mind has been 
 measurably prostrated this morning. Ah ! I should faint and 
 fall if the Lord helped me not secretly. Dare I lift up mine eyes 
 and soul to him I 0 yes ! I must not, dare not, forbear doing so. 
 Attended both meetings, and sat them through in silence : my 
 companions laboured in the morning : I went in a low condition, 
 particularly in the morning, and found there was nothing for me to 
 do. I remembered my parting from my home, and my strippinga 
 since, and I wetted the floor with my tears. Well, my soul desires 
 to lay hold of the Lord's promise, to be with and support my wife 
 and bless my children — to help me, even though it may be through 
 the correction of his rod, in this land, hoping and believing that 
 the staff also will not fail in time of need. Drank tea at W. 
 D.'s, where my companions had close communication, and I 
 feared wholly to omit labouring also : came home and felt rather 
 more easy. 
 
 " 13th. — From Horsham to Crawley, twelve miles ; put up at 
 YV. T.'s, a baker ; both he and his wife are concerned Friends. 
 
 " 14th. — Walked to Ifield meeting ; the select meeting began at 
 nine o'clock, and the Monthly Meeting at eleven. I found some 
 openness to labour in the first, and also when I sat down in the 
 large meeting house, my thoughts were turned to look back and 
 
 u 
 
290 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 remember the state of society in the coming forth of Friends, and 
 afterwards, and I had to mention it. It proved to my admiration 
 a pretty open time. We laboured honestly in the business part, 
 and on the whole felt easy. 
 
 " 15th. — Set off about ten o'clock, after a sitting with the 
 family where we lodged, and arrived at Brighton before night, 
 having rode twenty-seven miles. 
 
 "16^. — Feel much recruited in strength this morning. Our 
 beloved S. H. is poorly, and nursing her cold, which she has been 
 troubled with for some days past. Here we are again at Brighton. 
 We sat with the family in the evening, and I was glad of having 
 a little time of quiet. 
 
 "•17$. — I took a lonely walk along the sea-shore, and from 
 thence up a valley between the hills, and had a pensive, thoughtful 
 time. Humbled in examining my accounts, yet do not feel con- 
 demnation, as though any religious service had been omitted. 
 
 " IHth, First-day. — Many Friends attended the meeting, and 
 it was filled up with others : my way closed up in silence, not of 
 the pleasantest kind. After dinner had an opportunity with some 
 young people, which proved a tendering time. Went to afternoon 
 meeting at three o'clock, and after sitting until I thought it was 
 time to conclude, looking over the meeting and seeing how thickly 
 the people stood, and with what patience and quiet some behaved, 
 though others were light part of the time, my heart yearned 
 towards the goodly ones, and I was not easy without expressing a 
 little, which little made way for more, and I hope it was to profit. 
 The select meeting was held in the evening at seven o'clock, This 
 was a very searching time, and very close expressions escaped 
 my lips. 
 
 "19th. — To Quarterly Meeting, where many strangers attended; 
 in the early part S. H. had some lively communication, and I was 
 ready to conclude it would have fallen on me to continue the 
 labour, but it died away. Sometime after Thomas Summers stood 
 up, and after lie had closed I wished Friends to go to the business, 
 for my mind seemed pressed down, and I looked to get relief 
 amongst them when more select, which I was favoured to do, 
 though in a very close way, both in the men's and women's meeting, 
 and I trust, towards the close the precious oil was felt to flow, and 
 truth was measurably over all ; I was very much relieved, though 
 weary. Came home to dine, and afterwards had several sweet 
 opportunities with Friends who came in. My female companions 
 dined out, but came in to tea, and wc had a sitting with the family 
 
1 798.] 
 
 M13M0IRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOO D. 
 
 291 
 
 and others. DearS. H. had a very enlarged time, and I felt an 
 opening to follow : in this season it was opened to me, that it was 
 likely to be a parting opportunity to us, though at times there has 
 been some glimmering prospect of going with them into Hampshire ; 
 but now it looks likely they must try that county by themselves, 
 and perhaps way will be made for me to get relieved from the 
 people at large in Brighton — so be it. This I mentioned apart to 
 S. H., and it is a comfort that her mind is prepared to receive it. 
 
 " 20th. — Set off this morning with the women Friends and 
 stopped at Thomas Lidbetter's, and had a sweet opportunity in 
 his wife's sick-room with her two daughters ; love flowed freely. 
 To W. G.'s and dined, and after I had got through my exercise 
 in this convinced family, we had a sweet parting season. Soon 
 after, the women set off for Chichester, and I returned to Brighton, 
 weary with this day's ride, but comfortable in mind. 
 
 "•21st. — Feel oppressed with a cold this morning, but as my 
 thoughts have been frequently turned toward the inhabitants of 
 this place, wo sent for a Friend last night, and consulted about a 
 suitable place for a meeting. A pretty large, convenient house, 
 which had been occupied by the Presbyterians, but not used lately, 
 was thought of, and as some of the members have offered it freely, 
 it has been accepted, and a meeting appointed at six o'clock this 
 evening. Much fatigued most of this day, I expect from yester- 
 day's exertion and having caught cold. I felt so dull and heavy, 
 that though I endeavoured to read, seemed as if I could not under- 
 stand. Went to the meeting, which was much crowded, and 
 forgot my infirmities, and it proved an open, relieving opportunity. 
 In the close appointed another at the same hour to-morrow evening; 
 returned home and felt pretty well and comfortable, and lay down 
 so. Thanks bo rendered to the Lord my Helper. 
 
 " 22nd. — To the week-day meeting, where some few neighbours 
 came in, and I had an instructive time of enlargement. The 
 meeting at six o'clock was long in gathering, but crowded at last, 
 and a very full opportunity to mo ; ending solidly and well. 
 
 " 23rd. — My mind has been turned at times since coming into 
 this place, towards the fishermen, and this morning, after breakfast, 
 Friends took upon them to go round to their houses and request 
 the attendance of their wives and children, and as many of the 
 husbands also as were on shore. The time fixed was five o'clock, 
 as that seemed to suit best for this class of people. Many came, 
 and some late, so that the meeting was long, perhaps nearly two 
 hours, in gathering : it was trying to me to labour under such un- 
 
 u 2 
 
292 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 settlement ; however, feeling love to them, I began and endeavoured 
 to lead their minds into stayedness ; and though for a season it was 
 hard work, and it seemed as if I had to encounter a dead mass, 
 hard to get over, yet after this time of conflict my heart was much 
 enlarged, and tongue loosened ; and I trust through Divine favour 
 extended, it was a good time to many, holding near four hours •, 
 and my mind was much relieved — the Lord have the praise. 
 
 " 24tth. — Not apprehending myself clear of this place, and several 
 Friends being with me, I mentioned it to them, and proposed 
 holding a meeting in the house we have occupied of late ; with 
 which they united, and the people were encouraged to come at eleven 
 o'clock to-morrow, especially the fishermen. This has been a pretty 
 quiet day. Took a walk for health along the shore, and the fisher- 
 men seemed to know me, and were respectful. 
 
 " 25th, First-day. — Half- Year's Meeting in Philadelphia; and 
 the inquiry is, how fare my dear wife, children, and aged mother, 
 and other relations and friends left behind ? It is now nearly three 
 months since my last letter from home was dated. I have endea- 
 voured to resign up all into the hands of an overruling, wise and 
 merciful Lord and Master, who was pleased to separate me from them. 
 Divers of my friends, neighbours and acquaintances have been 
 removed away from this stage of action since, and very likely more 
 will be before I reach home, even if it is the Lord's will I should 
 do so. What better then than to labour after resignation, and be 
 favoured to say, ' Thy Heavenly will be done, by and towards 
 us all.' 
 
 " To meeting at the Presbyterian Meeting-house. It soon 
 gathered, and was an open, enlarged time in testimony amongst 
 them. I invited them to come again at the sixth hour. Dined 
 at E. M.'s, and afterwards had a religious opportunity with the 
 family, in which a youth who is apprenticed to him, lately from 
 Ackworth school, was much broken. At six o'clock went to the 
 meeting, which was uncommonly crowded ; it seemed to me that 
 if the house had been as large again it would probably have been 
 filled ; it held until past eight o'clock. Another much enlarged time, 
 though pretty close work to begin, and it ended comfortably. At 
 the close of it I took my farewell of the inhabitants, and told them 
 there was but one thing more that rested on my mind, and thai 
 was, to see the children of various descriptions together to-morrow 
 evening at six o'clock ; for I had observed how many of them 
 crowded at times into those we held, and some others at the gate, 
 who were not permitted to come in. 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS Of THOMAS SCAUTERGOOD. 
 
 293 
 
 '• 26^. — This morning 1 feel refreshed and well, favoured with a 
 ray of light, life and comfort on my bed. Thanks be to God, who 
 giveth us victory and peace, through our Lord Jesus Christ, his 
 Son. After breakfast W. W., a gaily-dressed person called in, 
 and we had agreeable, open conversation. He appears to be an 
 enlightened man, and is desirous of more meetings being held : he 
 invited us to dine with him to-morrow. After he went away, there 
 came in a poor Welch woman, who appeared much tendered — not 
 talkative, but quiet ; and as we sat in stillness together, my 
 thoughts were turned towards a people afar off, and I was com- 
 forted in the prospect of the possibility of having those raised up, 
 even amongst the poor, who would own me, and care for me. 
 When she departed she desired the Lord might go with and bless 
 me. I took a walk for nearly two hours along the sea-shore, and 
 on my return a woman with ribbons about her head, came to see 
 me, and said she wanted to take me by the hand, and signified her 
 thankfulness for the opportunities she had had at the meetings, 
 but rendered the praise unto God, and requested she might be 
 permitted to be at the children^ meeting. We went at six o'clock, 
 and I felt very poorly. There was a very great collection indeed. 
 When we went in, there was much buzz and noise amongst 
 those in the galleries, &c, and J. B. endeavoured to quiet them 
 by speaking to them, but it appeared to me to be of but little use, 
 the meeting not being full, and many came in afterwards. I 
 thought it best to try to get under exercise, and feel for the inward 
 balance. The house was crowded with people of many sorts, of 
 the upper, middle, and lower ranks. After some time I felt 
 strength to stand up, though in much bodily weakness, hardly 
 able to speak, in consequence of being so hoarse ; but I told them 
 in the beginning, that though many of them were noisy and rude, 
 I felt love to them through all. There was a pretty great calm 
 and quiet soon after I began to speak, for I stood some time first; 
 and it continued, and though I laboured in great bodily weakness, 
 and felt much spent afterwards, it afforded me much relief, and, 
 considering all things, was a pretty good meeting. Several spoke 
 to me on coming out : one goodly woman, who appeared to have 
 the care of some children of the upper rank, desired a blessing 
 might go with me. I felt, when I got home, as though a fit of 
 illness was coming on, and that I must go to bed, but in a little 
 time, by taking something warm, it seemed like a cordial, and 
 brought me to. O ! what sweet peace flowed into my mind on the 
 breaking up of the last finishing meeting! I thought that if 
 
294 
 
 M15M0UIS 01' THOMAS SCATTEKG00D. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 sickness, or anything else in the ordering of Providence, came upon 
 Brighton, I was clear of their blood. 
 
 " 27th. — Felt peaceful and comfortable on awaking this morn- 
 ing. After breakfast went with my companion to see a public- 
 house keeper, who was sick of a fever, and had a good time in his 
 chamber — it was at his request. Afterwards went to Dr. H.'s, 
 whose wife I heard was in a desponding, low way ; here we had a 
 comfortable time ; both husband and wife were loving, and he 
 wished more meetings to be held, as have others also. After an 
 opportunity with a number of Friends, who stepped in, I took 
 leave ; we mounted our horses, and accompanied by J. Glaisyer, 
 got to W. Gr.'s, sixteen miles. On the way, divers fishermen, &c, 
 saluted me, and a man on horseback, as we passed him, said to us, 
 ' Are you going on 1 1 On telling him we were, he desired with 
 tears that the Lord would bless me. This morning's ride has been 
 a sweet one, for I feel recruited in bodily health, and sweet peace 
 covers my mind on leaving Brighton, liemember it, 0 my soul ! 
 in low, stripping seasons: sanctify the Lord thy God, let him be 
 thy fear and dread, who has been thy Helper through deep 
 baptisms of late, and unto whom belong honour and glory, 
 thanksgiving and praise, who only and alone is worthy, and 
 nothing due to man. 
 
 " During this scene at Brighton, my mind has been turned 
 toward our dear companions, from whom we parted for the work's 
 sake : may the same Almighty hand which has graciously helped 
 me protect and preserve them. Not far from the place where W. 
 G. lives, is the seat of Roger Clough, where William Penn used 
 to live, called Worminghurst. 
 
 " — Set off about seven o'clock. On taking leave of a 
 daughter about ten years old, I told her my desire was that she 
 might be dutiful to her parents, loving to her brother and sisters, 
 and particularly to set a good example to her younger sisters; and 
 that when the evil one tempted her to do what was not right, she 
 should resist him and not yield, and then he would leave her, and 
 she would feel sweet and comfortable. She broke forth into tears, 
 and said, ' 0 ! he does tempt and try me ; ' and I learned by her 
 parents, that she complains of the temptations wherewith she is 
 beset. I have not often met with such a child. We proceeded on 
 to Alton, where we found our friends S. H. and S. F. : a number 
 of Friends spent the evening with us, and I thought I was quite 
 as cheerful during this day's ride, and also since coming into this 
 place last evening, as was profitable for me. Surely I have need to 
 
1798.] MEMOIKS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. <£JO 
 
 be watchful, not only in the winter season, but also on the sum- 
 mer's day, lest my garments get defiled. I trust my mind is 
 humbled this morning. 
 
 " 29th.— To the select meeting at eight o'clock, and afterwards 
 to the Quarterly Meeting. The public labour fell on S. H. I 
 felt nothing to communicate until the queries were answered in 
 the men s meeting ; and I thought myself a poor thing to say any- 
 thing amongst Friends, for I felt like one going down again into 
 sorrow and exercise. We dined at E. and H. Marshall's, and after- 
 wards went to Deborah Merry weather's, where a number came, and 
 my soul was much clothed with sorrow and exercise, and I ventured 
 to bend in supplication, and afterwards to speak to a very tried 
 state. I thought there was need for me to cry out for myself. 
 
 «y0//«.— Went to divers families with S. H. and S. F., but no 
 communication was laid on me. 1 accompanied our women 
 Friends to S. M.\ where we had a memorable time aftdr dinner; 
 and I may with gratitude acknowledge, that after I had ventured 
 to bend in supplication, I say ventured, because it is an awful 
 thing, and afterwards in communication, my mind obtained con- 
 siderable relief, and felt more easy. Marvellous are the dispensa- 
 tions of Providence. No way opens further into this county, or 
 further westward. I feel glad and well satisfied that I am here, 
 having fulfilled pretty much what opened on my mind when in 
 the north, respecting the meetings through the counties where my 
 lot of late has been cast, even with respect to the public ones. 
 The Lord is a merciful and tender Master, and has accepted my 
 feeble endeavours to serve him. Stand resigned then, 0 my soul! 
 to whatever further dispensations may be meted out. Drank tea 
 at W. C.'s, and had a tendering opportunity, and believe some ot 
 them were strengthened by it. Returned home ; and though I have 
 had some religious communication in the opportunities this day, 
 yet felt very poor and solitary in the evening. 
 
 M 31st. — Our women Friends having seen their way to move, 
 are gone ; mine seems hedged up. I struggled along until after 
 dinner, and I hope did not much appear to the company to fast. 
 Soon after J. B., my patient, kind companion and I, accompanied 
 by Samuel May as guide, took horse for Godalming. It was 
 pleasant once more to be on horseback, and for a little time I felt 
 more lightsome. In this eighteen or nineteen miles' 1 ride we had to 
 go over a pretty large heath, or tract of poor land. I lagged 
 behind my company under much exercise of mind, and thought I 
 cuuld have laid prostrate on the earth, with my mouth in the 
 
296 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 dust, if so be there might be hope. Put up at the widow Sarah 
 Waking's, where I met with a very affectionate reception. 
 
 " Fourth Month 1st, First-day. — I feel disposed to say, through 
 best help extended, I will wait and I will hope ; often coining to 
 the conclusion, that it is not meet for me to be long without such 
 strippings ; and in the midst of them believe I do not feel a 
 murmuring thought ; and indeed why should I, when I have ex- 
 perienced so often that the will of the Lord is my sanctification. 
 Went to meeting and sat it through in silence, and felt content. 
 
 " To afternoon meeting, and was led in a particular manner to 
 address the youth under visitation, and to deal pretty closely with 
 some other states. The meeting of ministers and elders began at 
 six o'clock, and held late, which was, I thought, a satisfactory 
 time. 
 
 " 2nd. — To Quarterly Meeting, where I sat nearly two hours, 
 with nothing stirring as to the ministry. Elizabeth AVaring 
 appeared in a few words, also Hannah Pry or, and Ann Christy. 
 Soon after I felt an opening to stand up, and had a pretty tender- 
 ing time. The business did not end until about four o'clock ; but 
 it was a satisfactory meeting, in which some ground was gained. 
 A committee was appointed to help the Monthly Meetings to 
 labour with respect to tithes. Dined at home, and had a tendering 
 opportunity with a pretty large company of youth and others. 
 
 " 3rd. — I sat the Monthly Meeting in much quiet, under 
 exercise. Dear H. Pryor, who still continues in the neighbour- 
 hood, I thought had a lively communication. In the business part 
 of the meeting I felt desirous that individuals should prepare their 
 spiritual accounts, which 1 expressed, and I was humbled into 
 tears, in resignation to the Lord's blessed will. My way closes in 
 this neighbourhood, and seems opening towards London again. 
 0 Lord my God ! to thee I look, to thee I cry : hitherto thou hast 
 helped and sustained my wading soul, and for this favour I bless thy 
 Name, — even for so much quietude of mind as I feel at this present 
 moment. To-day I heard of fresh fears and cares possessing the 
 public mind respecting the state of affairs. I have heard very 
 little of late respecting things in this land, or the commotions and 
 stirrings further off; yet it seems as if my mind was in sympathy 
 with the nation at large. But these things I leave to the great 
 and merciful Judge of all the earth, and proceed to my feelings 
 respecting myself and getting on. After dinner had a memorable 
 opportunity with the family where we have been kindly enter- 
 tained, and a number of others. Left them very tender, and many 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OK THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 297 
 
 of thein in tears ; mounted our horses and rode to Esher, fourteen 
 miles, and felt easy and comfortable. 
 
 " \th. — Lodged in a room richly furnished ; yellow silk damask 
 curtains to my bed, and silk curtains to the windows, &c, and on 
 looking over the house this morning, I do not find much difference 
 between it and the Duke of Norfolk's, over which J. B., J. G. and 
 I, went with the duke's servant, by his orders, when at the castle 
 at Arundel. 
 
 " I have lodged in very mean habitations in time past, and was 
 favoured with sweet peace and content. Lord, preserve in what 
 may yet be meted out, that thy will may prove my sanctification. 
 ' Verily I say unto you, there is no man that hath left house or 
 brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or 
 lauds, for my sake and the gospel's, but he shall receive an hundred- 
 fold now in this time, houses and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, 
 and children, and lands, with persecutions, and in the world to 
 come, eternal life.' I have enjoyed fruitful fields and beautiful 
 gardens for a moment, perhaps as sweetly so, from the great Giver 
 of all good things, as some of the owners of them. Thanks be 
 given where they are due, saith my soul. 
 
 " We attended the week-day meeting, which was a small one. 
 I sat nearly or quite two hours : but towards the last felt an open- 
 ing to minister to the states of others. It was a quiet and pretty 
 comfortable time. In the afternoon rode to London. My com- 
 panion took me home with him to Charter-house Square, where we 
 found S. Fairbank and S. Home ; they had not been long from 
 Staines. I staid and drank tea, and after a little sweet oppor- 
 tunity in the family of my friend and kind companion, he sent mc 
 in a coach to Broad Street, where I met an open, kind reception 
 from my beloved friends J. and 11. Smith, and lay me down quiet 
 in mind, having no cause to doubt my returning to London once 
 more being right, though I can see nothing fully at present. 
 
 " 5th. — Arose with a calm and resigned mind. 0 ! then, that 
 like a child, I may be favoured to behave myself resignedly, given 
 up to wait to know the Lord's will, who has of late led me about 
 and deeply instructed me. Magnify his name, 0 my soul ! and 
 forget not his benefits. 
 
 " 6th. — Attended the Meeting for Sufferings, and had to remind 
 them of the day of sifting and trial coming. I endeavoured, I 
 hope, faithfully to clear my soul. Went homo with Truman 
 Harford and lodged. 
 
 " 7th. — Tears were my meat on rising this morning, and viewing 
 
298 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 my condition. 0 Lord ! help still with a little of thy soul-sustain- 
 ing help. After dinner joined a committee of the Monthly Meet- 
 ing in visiting a Methodist minister, who is convinced of Friends 1 
 principles, and sat with them to a good degree of satisfaction. I 
 got safe home to Joseph Smith's, and spent the remainder of the 
 evening pleasantly with them. 
 
 " 8th, First-day. — To Gracechurch Street meeting, and was 
 largely engaged once more in pleading with the gay First-day 
 morning professors, with encouragement both to them and those 
 of a different description also, to a good degree of satisfaction and 
 relief. In the afternoon attended the same meeting, where Mary 
 Lloyd of Birmingham sat by me, and we were both led in the same 
 line of communication, to a mourning, desolate state. 
 
 " 9th. — To morning meeting, exercised in mind — a little book 
 on Tithes was read, &c. In the afternoon to Tottenham with S. 
 H., and once more met an affectionate reception from the father 
 and daughter Martha. " 
 
 In a letter to his wife, dated Fourth Month 9th, 1798, at 
 London, he says : 
 
 " I came to London last week, after an excursion of about two 
 months into the counties of Kent, Sussex, and part of Surrey and 
 Hampshire, and have had sweet peace in an honest discharge of 
 duty, bothamongst Friends and others; having hadsix public meet- 
 ings in the town of Brighton, on the sea-coast, before I could leave 
 that place. Whether I shall stay in or about London until after 
 the Yearly Meeting, I cannot fully see. I believed it my place to 
 enter into this great city again, whero clouds of exercise seem 
 gathering around me ; and if it is my lot in the will of God to be 
 here, and suffer with my brethren and sisters, if suffering should 
 bo their lot, I have no reason to question and say to my Master, 
 ' Why dealest thou thus with me V O ! may I still be favoured 
 to sanctify the Lord my God, and let him be my fear through the 
 remainder of my pilgrimage in this land, is my soul's desire. The 
 outgoings of my heart have been towards my dear companion in 
 lifej with desires that Almighty God may sweeten every bitter 
 cup to her.'" 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD . 
 
 299 
 
 CHAPTER XIV. 
 
 1798. RELIGIOUS SERVICE IN LONDON AND ITS VICINITY LETTER 
 
 FROM ANN CROWLEY WRITES TO HIS SON ANOTHER LETTER FROM 
 
 ANN CROWLEY WRITES TO HIS WIFE — CONTINUES HIS RELIGIOUS 
 
 ENGAGEMENTS IN LONDON AND NEIGHBOURHOOD WRITES AGAIN TO 
 
 HIS SON. 
 
 " 10th. — I came back to Loiidou and its neighbourhood in 
 resignation to the Lord's will, ready and willing to refit and move 
 on, if it is his will, to the further part of the land ; having little 
 desire to stay here and hereaway until after Yearly Meeting, 
 although thereby I may see many dear Friends, also some of my 
 country folks. A prospect has at different times opened, of some 
 further service out of London. But now all seems closed up as in 
 times past, and I am again a poor blank. Were it not for soul- 
 sustaining help in some of those trying winter seasons, I should 
 fear getting into a state of despair ; but hitherto the Lord has 
 helped, and I will endeavour still to trust Him, though he may 
 permit me to go down yet deeper into the valley and shadow of 
 death. May I wait for a day of deliverance, and be content with 
 my bonds. 
 
 " 11^/i. — To the burial of James Townsend: the corpse was 
 taken to Peel meeting. My troubles multiplied on me. I went 
 to the ground, and though I felt a poor creature, yet 1 ventured 
 to stand forth amongst the people in a short testimony ; after which 
 I returned with my very kind friend J. H. and children. 
 
 " 12th. — To meeting, which was altogether silent : my soul 
 could do little more than cry, Lord have mercy, and wash and 
 cleanse me. 
 
 " 13^. — Spent this day pretty much in adjusting and endorsing 
 my letters and papers. Received a letter last evening from S. H. ; 
 it appears by it that he was not satisfied with what I delivered in 
 meeting. Thus I get along — often a poor staggering one ; through 
 good and evil report, and often weeping over my own infirmities. 
 My soul has this day craved mercy, with sighs and cries, in the 
 language of the Psalmist ; ' Hear,my voice, O God ! in my prayer ; 
 preserve my life from the fear of the enemy. Hide mo from the 
 
300 .MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. [1798. 
 
 secret council of the wicked ; from the insurrection of the workers 
 of iniquity.' 
 
 Second-day. — Went to London, and had a memorable 
 ride ; the flesh warring against the spirit, to bring- me into bondage. 
 After calling to see several Friends, I took a pensive, thoughtful 
 walk over the fields, and my sorrow was stirred within me, and 
 know not how to record my distress better than in David's words ; 
 ' Give ear to my prayer, 0 God ! and hide not thyself from my 
 supplication. Attend unto me, and hear me : I mourn in my 
 complaint, and make a noise ; because of the voice of the enemy, 
 because of the oppression of the wicked : for they cast iniquity upon 
 me, and in wrath they hate me. My heart is sore pained within 
 me : and the terrors of death are fallen upon me. Fearfulness and 
 trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me, 1 
 or covered me. ' And I said, Oh, that I had wings like a dove ! for 
 then would I fly away, and be at rest. Lo, then would I wander 
 far off, and remain in the wilderness. I would hasten my escape 
 from the windy storm and tempest.'' 
 
 " 18th. — Awoke pretty early, and lay in a pensive, thoughtful 
 frame of mind, looking over my movements, and felt an earnest 
 solicitude and prayer arise, that I might be favoured to settle down 
 into greater resignation of soul, and to bear with greater patience 
 my yoke and bonds. I have been struggling with a prospect that 
 has at times opened, to go again into the north of England, on the 
 opposite side of the island to that it was my lot to be in last sum- 
 mer, — to Scotland, and even further if it is the will of God. I 
 came to London fully resigned, I trust, to this prospect, and to 
 refit and go off before Yearly Meeting ; but it appears the time is 
 not yet fully come, if it does come at all, and now the cloud 
 rests upon my prospects. No opening to religious service presents, 
 and at seasons the lion roars against me. 0 ! that I could be quiet 
 and behave myself more like a weaned child, with submissive 
 dependence upon an All-wise Father: this condition has looked 
 very desirable this morning. 0 then, my soul ! seek for Divine 
 assistance to press more and more into it, leaving those things that 
 are behind, and the trying, perplexing thoughts that so often set 
 themselves in array against thee. There is yet mercy, forgiveness 
 and truth with the Lord, that he may be feared ; and with him 
 is plenteous redemption. Hope thou in him, that thou mayst 
 praise him in a day to come, and know him to be the health and 
 light of thy countenance, and thy God, who has helped thee over 
 many difficulties in days and years past. I desire to lay prostrate 
 
1 798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTRRGOOD. 
 
 301 
 
 before Him, humbled in dust and ashes. There is no hiding from 
 the All-seeing eye of Heaven. The language of my soul is, ' Why 
 hast thou forsaken me ; or wilt thou forsake or overlook thy poor 
 servant and yet, is it not a great thing to be favoured to think, 
 and to say, ' though thou slay me, yet will I trust in thee.' 
 
 " 19th. — In a lonely, pensive walk, I was favoured to think how 
 easy a thing it would be with the Mighty One of Israel to change 
 the dispensation respecting my soul. I thought, how joy fid it 
 would be to live to see truth and righteousness nourish in London 
 and its neighbourhood, and living zeal for the law and testimony 
 inorease ; and that I might joy and rejoice with them that rejoice. 
 Went to meeting and sat it through in thoughtful silence, 
 endeavouring to sum up my accounts since leaving Brighton, and 
 settle them, and hope my soul was truly humbled. 
 
 " 21s?, Seventh-day. — My soul is under oppression. What a 
 staggering condition I seem to be in — like a drunken man, but 
 not with wine, but with the cup handed me by my gracious Lord 
 to drink of. The cup which my heavenly Master giveth, or sees 
 cause to permit to be dispensed, shall I not drink it ; 0 yes ! ray 
 
 soul craves ability to dwell here all the Lord's time 
 
 I thought this day, how willingly could I enter into any religious 
 service the Lord might be pleased to call for, even the honourable 
 service of the best of pay-masters, either amongst my friends, or 
 amongst the people at large. On the way home my mind became 
 more calm, and Waltham Abbey meeting came into view, and a 
 willingness to go and sit quietly amongst the little company that 
 is to assemble there to-morrow. My soul was bowed in thankful- 
 ness, and spent the remainder of the evening quiet and serene. 
 
 " 22nd, First-day. — Arose with calmness and resignation. A 
 very fine morning as to the outward — and may I say, When shall 
 I be favoured to behold the opening of another spring-time in my 
 soul ! when will the singing of birds be heard, with the voice of the 
 turtle I Is it not more fit and acceptable to say, ' Not mv time 
 and will, but thine, 0 Lord ! who doeth all things well : fit and 
 prepare my soul to bear with becoming patience all the dispensa- 
 tions of thy providence, whether spiritual or temporal. Wash 
 away my secret faults ; cleanse me from them and thy will be 
 done.' Went to Waltham, accompanied by W. F., his son 
 William, and J. W. I was silent in the meeting, yet favoured 
 with some sight and prospect, not the sign of the prophet Jonas, 
 but that of Ezekiel. 0 ! how little opening appears in places. 
 I have faith to believe it will not be so always ; but when the rod 
 
302 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 has been exercised for a time, there will be an open door for the 
 servants and messengers. My soul craves a share of labour in 
 this blessed day, yet with humble submission. The opening I was 
 favoured with was sweet, and I thought if it was the Lord's will 
 to remove me from my troubles here, He who made me, and has 
 thus far supported, borne up, and corrected me also, would have 
 mercy on me. May thankfulness fill up my soul for this sense. 
 J. H. and daughter dined with us, and after dinner we dropped 
 into silence, in which he had some religious communication, much 
 of which I thought fitted my state. The afternoon meeting was 
 dull and laborious, but near the close J. H. spoke fitly to my tried 
 state ; it was reviving and encouraging, and I felt willing to receive 
 a crumb handed forth through a fellow-servant, and one who in 
 man's estimation is weak. 
 
 " 2Mh. — 0 ! if the fat and full in this land are brought to feel 
 the situation my soul has laboured under for three years, it will be 
 a time of mourning indeed. May such a sense, if permitted, 
 prove a time of enlightening and gathering to the true Shepherd 
 and Bishop of souls. The Lord hasten the blessed day of flocking 
 unto Zion, as doves to the window of the ark. 
 
 " 25th. — Something like the lifting up of the head was my 
 thankful experience to-day, in a long and thoughtful walk. I 
 remembered this passage of Scripture, and when I returned read 
 it to my comfort ; ' God hath spoken once, twice have I heard 
 this, that power belongeth to God. 1 The Lord's servant breaks 
 forth, both before and after these expressions, on this wise, and it 
 appears applicable to my state, viz : ' Hear ray cry, O God ! attend 
 unto my prayer. F rora the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, 
 when my heart is overwhelmed : lead me to the rock that is higher 
 than I. God hath spoken once, twice have I heard this, that 
 power belongeth unto God : also unto thee, 0 Lord ! belongeth 
 mercy, for thou renderest to every man according to his work.'' 
 These expressions also impressed my mind in my walk ; ' I stand 
 continually upon the watch-tower in tho day time, and am in my 
 ward whole nights.' 
 
 " 27tk. — In the evening I felt my mind turned in near love and 
 desire for the preservation of 13. B. I rejoiced in feeling once 
 more tho arising of love, I trust gospel love, and to find a small 
 return of the precious gift to mc. My heart was also broken in a 
 sense of the great love and tenderness which both of the parents 
 and the children of this family had manifested to me. 
 
 '• Fifth Month 6th, First day. — Thinking a little last evening 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OK THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 303 
 
 of going to Gracechurch Street meeting, and mentioning it to my 
 kind friends, was encouraged ; but on arising this morning, such 
 was the sense of my weakness and unworthiness, that for a time 
 I could not persuade myself it was right to attend to the little 
 motion felt last evening ; yet as the way seemed most open, I set 
 off accompanied by S. D. In the meeting I bent in supplication, 
 which much relieved my mind, and again after a lively communi- 
 cation through dear A. C, I ventured to utter a few sentences, 
 expressive of the love I felt to that assembly, and which, thanks 
 be to Him who is ever worthy, flowed through mo to the king on 
 the throne, and also to the meanest of his subjects. ' By this we 
 know we have passed from death unto life, because we love the 
 brethren.' To the afternoon meeting at Tottenham. I had a 
 pretty open time, especially in love and sympathy towards some 
 of the youth present. 
 
 " lOtf/i. — Four years this day since I left my own habitation. 
 Went to Tottenham Monthly Meeting. 
 
 " \~lth. — Not without a portion of sorrow and sadness on 
 awaking this morning. Bowed in praver before leaving my 
 chamber, begging for preservation. I looked back to my conflicts 
 this day four years : ah ! it was a day to be remembered, if I may 
 indulge for a moment. But is it not better to endeavour to forget 
 the things that are behind, and press forward ? O ! that I may be 
 accounted worthy to be yet numbered amongst the Lord's servants. 
 I have remembered the kind and consolatory expressions of our Lord 
 to his disciples ; ' Ye are they which have continued with me in 
 my temptations, and I appoint unto you a kingdom ; even as my 
 Father hath appointed unto me. 1 
 
 The following is extracted from a letter addressed to him by 
 his friend Ann Crowley, dated : 
 
 " Aylesbury, 10th of Fifth Month, 1798. 
 " Dearly beloved friend, 
 "Thy affectionate and sympathetic communication merited an 
 earlier reply ; but I have no doubt thou wilt believe, and that 
 because experience hath taught thee, that minds occupied in a ser- 
 vice so weighty and important as is our present calling, meet with 
 various occurrences to prevent writing, even to those we dearly 
 love and are nearly united to, by the binding tie of gospel fellow- 
 ship. Thus, from frequent exercises, and sensible feeling of great 
 weakness of mind and body, I have been prevented from acknow- 
 ledging, that thy token of continued remembrance and regard 
 
304 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 was truly salutary to my tried and stripped mind ; and perhaps it 
 could not have reached ray hands at a season when more needed, 
 for it arrived just as I was sitting solitary and mournful, not 
 knowing which way to move, or what offering to make to obtain 
 peace ; distress clothed my mind and darkness seemed on every 
 hand. The spring of gospel ministry had been long shut up, and 
 appeared as a fountain sealed ; my mind was like a stranger and 
 alien to the knowledge of Divine things ; I thought as much so 
 as though none of the mysteries of the kingdom had ever been 
 unfolded to me. In this tried, proved state of mind, I found few 
 could fathom my exercises, though divers pitied, and were ready to 
 hand forth a little advice — such as wishing me to be faithful, and 
 not carry such a burthen from meeting to meeting, and thereby 
 weaken my hands, and similar communications ; all which were 
 administered in great tenderness and love, and I could receive them 
 as such ; I thought they only tended to add to my tribulations, 
 for all was as much sealed from me, as though I had never received 
 any qualification or commission to preach the gospel. I was ready 
 to call all former experiences in question, and to conclude I never 
 had known a being anointed and appointed for that service. This 
 was my situation when thy kind letter came to hand, which felt 
 like balm to my soul ; no doubt but thou wilt admit, if thou 
 remembers what thou wrote, that it was a suitable cup of conso- 
 lation ; it felt to me like a little brook by the way, for which un- 
 merited favour, gratitude was raised in my heart to the Lord, 
 and I was thankful to feel he had not forgotten to be gracious, but 
 had once more extended his never-failing hand of help in the needful 
 time. I did believe it was of his goodness to put it in thy mind 
 thus to address a poor, weary traveller, to whose frequent bap- 
 tisms and exercises I believe my beloved friend is not altogether a 
 stranger ; for having trodden a trying path thyself, thou canst 
 more intimately dip into a sympathetic feeling with such, who in 
 some degree may have to walk in similar footsteps. Yea, I verily 
 believe the intercourse and communion of spirits is such, that we 
 are permitted sensibly to feel one another's exercises and trials, 
 before any outward information reaches our ears. Great is the 
 privilege ; indeed I felt it so; for I can say in perfect freedom, 
 that in the course of all my travels I have not met with one that 
 could so feelingly fathom my state of mind, as thou wast enabled 
 to do, my endeared friend, though we were so widely separated as 
 to the body ; may I ever walk worthy of such notice, is the crav- 
 ing of my heart. 1 ' 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 305 
 
 " I wish not to dwell too much on a relation of the many pro- 
 bations and deep exercises, which in unerring wisdom have fallen 
 to my lot in the course of this journey, but rather call to mind 
 and commemorate the gracious dealings of the Lord with us and 
 with his people. How wonderfully hath he at times opened both 
 the door of utterance and entrance, so that we have been con- 
 strained to acknowledge, ' Great and marvellous are thy works, 
 Lord God Almighty ; just and true are all thy ways, thou King 
 of saints. 1 Is he not working wonders in the earth? yea, verily, 
 our eyes are made to behold, as well as our faith renewed to 
 believe ; so that at seasons we can bless and adore his holy name, 
 and say, ' Thou art a long-suffering, gracious God ; inviting all, 
 even the transgressors in Israel, to return and come to thy ban- 
 queting house, where thy banner over them will be love.' It is 
 probable my beloved friend may have heard, that our line of labour 
 has not been altogether confined to our religious Society ; but for 
 the enjoyment of that peace, which obedience to the renewed mani- 
 festations of duty can alone purchase, we have been made willing 
 to have public meetings in many places ; this thou wilt, I have no 
 doubt, conclude has not been a little proving to my faith; particu- 
 larly as my much beloved companion has little draft this way, 
 though she has nearly and feelingly sympathized and felt with me 
 in this arduous engagement ; the secret travail of her spirit has 
 been precious and strengthening to my mind. When the burden 
 of this concern came weightily on my shoulders, how did nature 
 shrink, so that I was ready to say, if it be possible let the cup pass 
 from me; for I am no way qualified, and the undertaking is too 
 mighty for one so little instructed in the school of Christ ; — there 
 is great danger of my supporting, or attempting to support the ark 
 unbidden, and thereby bringing a reproach on the truth, and con- 
 demnation to my own soul. Such like reasonings took place ; but 
 after consultations of this sort I plainly saw my peace of mind and 
 health of body depended on obedience. Then was I reduced into 
 such a state of resignation, as enabled me to say, as one formerly ; 
 ' If thou wilt give me bread to eat, (spiritual bread,) and raiment 
 to put on, (the robes of righteousness and peace,) then shall the 
 Lord be my God, and I will obey him.' When brought into this 
 state of mind, I experienced way to be made, where I saw no way 
 before ; the mountains skipped like rams, and the little hills like 
 lambs. 
 
 " I am ashamed of myself, when I see the full dedication of 
 heart dear Sarah Lynes manifests to the world, by her resigna- 
 
SOG 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 tion and obedience to such singular requirings ; may she be pre- 
 served, so as in the winding up of time, to experience the answer 
 of, ' W ell done,' &c, is often the desire of my mind, as well as for 
 myself, and all other exercised servants. We have several times 
 fallen in company with dear Charity Cook and Mary Swett; I 
 think them valuable, choice Friends : I wish their honest labours 
 of love may be blessed to the inhabitants of this highly-favoured 
 nation. Charity Cook's gift lies much amongst other societies ; 
 Mary's much confined to our own band ; however, they seem 
 nearly united. We parted from them at Warwick — they are 
 gone the Oxford road to London. 1 ' 
 
 " 15th. — What a scene I have passed through in the five months 
 past ! What deep plunges at seasons — what stops and stays ; 
 what blindness, weakness and poverty ; and yet not without 
 intervals of light, life, strength and boldness. My soul desires to 
 know what true humility is, and begs to be favoured to lay pros- 
 trate on the approach of the annual assembly, that in and through 
 that, I may be found in my allotment. 0 Lord be merciful ! wash 
 and cleanse me ; grant more victory over weakness and frail 
 nature —gird me about with a portion of thy strength. 
 
 " 18th. — The opening of the Yearly Meeting, and I am in a 
 very broken, poor condition. This all-seeing Eye knows how it is 
 with me, and this has been some consolation : I feel no disposition 
 to hide. What can such a weak creature do better, than labour 
 after ability to breathe forth this language in secret, to him that 
 sees in secret; 'Though thou slay me, yet will I trust in thee. 1 
 Attended a large meeting in one of the new houses. My mind 
 was bowed, and my heart in some degree broken ; and after a 
 lively communication through my dear country-woman, Charity 
 Cook, I ventured to prostrate myself in supplication. Martha 
 Routh had a searching time, which was a relief to my mind. 
 Elizabeth Usher uttered a few words in prayer near the close. 
 
 " 19th. — Having had my thoughts turned for several days 
 toward Westminster, I went thither this morning with Thomas 
 Colley. The labour fell on him, and I was content. At the close 
 I gave liberty to invite the people to come in the evening. Went 
 to meeting at five o'clock, and had a pretty good time. E. H. 
 from Ireland was also engaged, and Martha Routh appeared in 
 solemn prayer. 
 
 " 21 st. — To select meeting, where dear John Wigham and 
 Martha Routh gave in their certificates, and a sweet account of 
 
17)8.] 
 
 MKMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 307 
 
 their visit to our country. It was a good meeting. The opening 
 of the meeting for business at four o'clock was a profitable, good 
 sitting. 
 
 " 22nd. — Two sittings of the Yearly Meeting. The time was 
 spent in reading the answers to the queries, as far as Surrey, and 
 some good remarks were made : very little fell on me, and 1 had 
 a quiet, peaceful day. 
 
 "23?"(/. — To a meeting for worship at Devonshire House, where 
 I had a pretty open time of encouragement to the burden-bearers 
 and tried ones. Deborah Darby, and also my country-women, 
 Charity Cook and Mary Swett, had a share in the labour. After 
 which I went to William S. Fry's, where I found a large company, 
 and was exercised in religious communication. In the afternoon 
 meeting for business, my mind was engaged to speak in testimony 
 against appointing such members as are not faithful to support the 
 precious testimonies of Truth at home ; and sending them to 
 Yearly Meeting to open their mouths, to the afflicting and wound- 
 ins: of their brethren. 
 
 " 2-ith. — Attended meeting, and also sat with the committee to 
 prepare epistles, in which an opportunity was given to relieve my 
 mind of an exercise, respecting those who were fit members for 
 employment in the services of Society, and those who were not. 
 
 " 26th. — 0 humbling prospect! were it not that my soul has 
 been given to believe, that the everlasting Arm still remains to be 
 underneath, should I not faint indeed ! Have faith in God then, 
 O ! my tried soul. I sat with the large committee, which got 
 on comfortably with the business, and at eleven o'clock went to 
 the Yearly Meeting. After meeting, I mentioned to Truman 
 Harford a prospect I had of seeing the neighbours together at 
 Batcliff, and which weightily opened upon my mind in Yearly 
 Meeting. 
 
 " 27th, First-day. — My exercise seems of late to begin with 
 morning light. 0 ! may I be favoured to turn my attention, with 
 singleness of heart, to the meeting appointed at Hatcliff, that so, 
 through the Lord's help, his holy name and truth may be honoured. 
 O Lord! be pleased to help me. Went to Hatcliff, accompanied by 
 my friend S. H., where was a large meeting, mostly made up of 
 people of other societies. It proved an open time, from the passage 
 of Scripture describing Peter's seeing the sheet let down, and 
 being fitted to go with the messengers. The same good Hand 
 which worked in Peter's heart, and prepared him for the service, 
 opened also the heart of Cornelius to receive the message. A 
 
 x 2 
 
308 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEItGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 young man came to me after meeting, and said his doubts were 
 now removed respecting our Society. Attended an evening meet- 
 ing in the same place, which was large, and another favoured time, 
 in which my mind was comfortably relieved. 
 
 " 28th. — Very much abased and prostrate this morning, as on 
 the bended knees of soul and body ; and a little light and hope 
 sprang up, in which I was enabled to believe that the Lord would 
 break my bonds, — and the vision was as clear as that of my 
 coming into this land. 0 ! then, my most merciful and adorable 
 Lord and Master, let thy blessed will be done respecting me, and 
 all that appertains to me. Thou hast shown thy servant in the 
 deeps that thy hand has been at work, and underneath — thou hast 
 shown me that thy mercy reacheth forth towards my dear aged 
 parent, and that she is under thy protection ; and that thou hast 
 provided an everlasting habitation for the wife of my bosom. 
 Lord, my soul is overcome in the sense of it. Thou hast shown 
 me that thy tender notice and regard is toward my dear children. 
 0 ! keep them, and let them be thine ; and thou hast shown me, 
 that thou wilt yet provide for me ; wilt ' give beauty for ashes, 
 the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise for the 
 spirit of heaviness.' 
 
 " 29th. — The last sitting of the Yearly Meeting this afternoon, 
 closed under a solemn calm. I have been a plentiful sharer in 
 deep humility through the several sittings of this meeting ; and 
 have been favoured to speak to the relief of my mind, and also 
 rejoiced in seeing truth gain ground, and in our having a precious, 
 solid meeting ; yet my conflicts and exercise are not removed. 
 
 " 31st. — This morning I poured out my tears of distress and 
 sorrow. I remembered the note made a few days ago, (28th,) and 
 longed for ability to cast away my labour and toil, and have faith 
 in God. I am now shut up as in a cloud. I could not make mention 
 to the Yearly Meeting about going home, as my friends William 
 Savery and Sarah Harrison did. I felt quiet and easy in that 
 respect, and now am as blind as ever as to any further religious 
 service in this land. Lord, keep me from falling on this sea of 
 glass mingled with fire. 
 
 " Sixth Month 1st. — O Lord God ! remember me in my distress, 
 for my soul is almost overwhelmed; forgive all my iniquities, sanc- 
 tify and prepare me for further work, in thy way and in thy time, 
 if more thou hast allotted for me to do. 
 
 " 3rd, First-day. — I ventured on my knees in meeting, to beg 
 for preservation for myself and all the Lord's conflicting servants, 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEBGOOD. 
 
 309 
 
 wherever their lot is cast. David's state presented, when he 
 said, 'Be merciful unto me, 0 Lord! be merciful unto me, for 
 my soul trusteth in thee ; yea, in the shadow of thy wing will I 
 make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast.' " 
 
 In a letter to his son, dated London, Sixth Month 5th, he thus 
 writes : 
 
 " I am yet in London, and indeed discouragement would 
 thicken upon me on this account, finding it trying to you at home, 
 if I had occasion to conclude that it is not in the will of God : 
 there would then be cause indeed to mourn ; but I trust it is not 
 in my own will, for I meet with many fiery trials, and ups and 
 downs, which tend to the breaking of that in pieces. 0 ! may my 
 soul be preserved to the end, is my fervent prayer. Yearly Meet- 
 ing is over, and an evidence has been granted me that I have been 
 in my place : it was very large, and sweetly owned by the 
 Master of assemblies. I rejoice in seeing and believing that truth 
 and righteousness are spreading — there being many precious young 
 plants. 1 have met with Charity Cook, Mary Swett, Sarah Talbot, 
 Phebe Speakman, William Savery, and also Sarah Harrison, to 
 my comfort. In my former letters, if they have come to hand, 
 you will perceive that I had got on the south-side of London : I 
 went through two counties fully, and part of another, and have 
 been comforted in finding or hearing that it has not been in vain. 
 
 I am a servant in waiting : — wait then also, all you my 
 
 dear family, who are so nearly interested in my welfare, and pray 
 for me when you can, that I may fulfil the task, much whereof is 
 drinking the cup of suffering. The cup which my heavenly Father 
 giveth me, or permitteth me, to drink, shall I not drink it ? O 
 yes ! and that with resignation. May the Lord on High, who is 
 mightier than the noise of many waters, comfort, bear up, and 
 sustain all your minds, and also be with me." 
 
 " ]0th. — I went to meeting in a weak state. Both morning 
 and evening were deeply plunging times. After E. Usher had 
 appeared in a short testimony, toward the close of the meeting in 
 the morning, applicable to my tried state, I ventured to go down 
 on my knees. The afternoon meeting appeared to me to be a very 
 solemn time, and I ventured to tell the assembly so. 
 
 " 14tfA, Fifth-day. — I have remembered this morning, that it is, 
 I think, four years this day, since I landed at Tower Wharf, 
 London. 0 ! the scenes my soul has passed through in and about 
 
310 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 London since that time ; and could I wish or desire that it should 
 have been otherwise I 0 no ! If the Lord is pleased to carry me 
 through to the end, I shall have occasion to say, ' Great and mar- 
 vellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty ; just and true are all 
 thy ways, thou King of saints ; who shall not fear before thee, 
 and glorify thy name.' 
 
 " 20th, Fourth-day. — I have thought much of the poor and 
 miserable people in Ireland, who are called rebels, as well as others 
 called Protestants ; the misery and sufferings, unutterable perhaps, 
 of many, as well as the deaths of not a few. How has my heart 
 throbbed within me, when I have read the account. My mind has 
 also been turned toward the rulers in this land ; from the king on 
 the throne, to his ministers and servants, and I have seen that it is 
 not fortifications, either above or below the earth ; neither armies 
 nor navies that will save this favoured land. No, nothing short 
 of the out-stretched arm of the Lord, and the people bowing before 
 him, and humbling themselves as in dust and ashes ; keeping a 
 fast from abominable wickedness, and sincerely praying unto God, 
 the only hope of salvation. 
 
 " Seventh Month 1st, First-day. — Feel a willingness to endure 
 all trials, and not to cast away my little grain of faith. Lord, if 
 I perish, I will perish at thy feet, has been the cry of my soul. 
 Went to meeting at Tottenham, and near the close I ventured to 
 bend in prayer, having had a little opening as out of the prison 
 window, of a day of more enlargement. After afternoon meeting 
 went home with William Dillwyn. O ! that mis-spending time 
 may not be charged against me. Many are the charges of the 
 accuser of the brethren, at seasons, when my soul is in a low condi- 
 tion. 0 ! Fountain of mercy, be pleased to clear my way, even if 
 it be through the fire ; let thy mercy go forth, and then my soul 
 shall endure. I long to be employed by thee in the work of the 
 gospel. 
 
 " 3rd, Third-day. — If I dare say that my sufferings in part are 
 for others ; and that I am dipped into sympathy with the nation 
 at large, and, in a peculiar manner, with the city of London, (yes, 
 O London! my soul has been abased within thee;) then most 
 assuredly, I believe the Lord will fulfil what he has shown to his 
 servants the prophets. O ! may my soul be favoured to partake 
 resignedly of the cup of suffering meted out, and not be cast off 
 of my God. if I am a sign to my brethren in this land, as a poor 
 suffering servant ; Lord grant me the comfort of thy holy presence, 
 to go with me, and it will be enough. Thy power is above every 
 
1 798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 311 
 
 power. Draw away ray aft'ections from all hindering, earthly con- 
 cerns. Blot out and remove all my iniquities, and enable me to 
 
 say, Thy will be done I desired to pray for a clear 
 
 evidence that I was in suffering for some good purpose ; and was 
 stopped by this reflection; where then would be the exercise of faith I 
 and it appeared desirable to walk by faith, if only by a grain. O! 
 then for resignation and more contentment in the Divine will. 
 Man by his efforts can do nothing : lie prostrate, 0 my soul ! 
 let the waves pass over thee. Walked over to High Cross, and 
 spent part of the afternoon with S. H. and W. F. At the boys 1 
 school in the evening, and felt more free from that inexpressible 
 weight." 
 
 The following is extracted from a letter received while in London, 
 from his beloved friend Ann Crowley, viz : 
 
 SMpton, 6th of Seventh Month, 1798. 
 
 " Beloved Friend, 
 
 " It seems as though I could scarcely forbear embracing a few 
 minutes of leisure to address thee, though not from an apprehen- 
 sion that the expression of continued love and sympathy can prove 
 effectually consoling or strengthening to thy deeply exercised 
 mind ; especially as it comes from one whose experience in Divine 
 things is that of a child's ; but having felt my mind increasingly 
 bound to thee, in the sweet fellowship of gospel love and life, and 
 an inclination arising time after time, to tell thee as much, I 
 thought it might afford me some relief to say, how near and dear 
 thou art to my best life. I think I never felt it more so than of 
 late, for which my soul is made thankful ; because, if my feelings 
 have been right, it is a union which will allow me to salute thee 
 as a brother, or should I not rather say, a father, in tribulation, 
 in sore conflicts and trials ; when faith, patience and hope may be 
 reduced to a low ebb. I think I was never more sensibly impressed 
 with an apprehension that a large portion of suffering has fallen 
 to thy lot, than since we last parted in London ; yea, surely it 
 must have been so, or I think I should not have been introduced 
 into such a sympathetic engagement of heart, for one whom I so 
 dearly love, and whose firm standing and preservation, through 
 the various proving baptisms dispensed, I covet as my own ; know- 
 ing that nothing short of the invincible and invisible Arm of God's 
 salvation, can support and bear up the tossed, tribulated mind, 
 through the vicissitudes of time. An establishment in this belief 
 
312 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 leads to a daily breathing in the pathetic language ; ' Arise 0 
 God ! strengthen thy feeble servant with might in the inner man, 
 that so preservation and perseverance through all may be expe- 
 rienced. 1 But there are seasons when thy poor friend cannot lift up 
 her soul to Heaven and cry for daily bread ; but feels hardness of 
 heart, and distress of mind, — can justly compare her state to the 
 heath in the desert, and knows not when good comes ; can hear 
 her fellow-travellers and friends tell of the humbling seasons of 
 refreshment they are made to partake of, when she is not able to 
 utter scarcely a rightly-begotten sigh or groan, or shed a mournful 
 tear ; but all that proceeds from the only source of good is veiled 
 from her, as things she had never partaken of in former seasons. 
 Is this an experience with which my beloved friend is experimen- 
 tally acquainted ? Surely it feels to me, as if a similar bitter portion 
 has been given him to drink, in the course of his pilgrimage ; and 
 if this should have been the case, it may afford me some encourage- 
 ment ; because I am firm in the belief, that thy sufferings have 
 not only abundantly qualified for service in the Lord's work, but 
 they have brightened thee, as a well-polished instrument, fitted to 
 execute the office intended. Therefore, suffer me to say in simpli- 
 city, though in integrity of heart ; ' Be not afraid, neither too much 
 castdown or discouraged, for the Godof Abraham, Isaac, andJacob, 
 is thy God ;' He will be thy buckler, thy shield, and thy battle- 
 axe, — that so no weapon formed against thee shall ever be able to 
 prosper ; but thou shalt be abundantly clothed upon with strength, 
 wisdom and understanding, so that in the midst of trials, baptisms 
 and provings, the acknowledgmentwill be raised, the Lord isworthy 
 to be served, to be honoured and obeyed : for though he hideth 
 his face for a season, yet at the break of day I see the Sun of Righte- 
 ousness arising ; and faith is given me to believe, healing virtue is 
 in his wings. Can the children of the bride-chamber rejoice, when 
 the bridegroom is not with them ? And is it not a day when the 
 Bridegroom of souls is often withdrawing himself from his church 
 and people, because of the degeneracy, the lukewarmness and in- 
 differency of mind which is prevalent amongst the high professing 
 Christians ? Can we wonder then, that mourning should be the 
 appointed garment of the Lord's exercised servants, who are rightly 
 dipped into the present bewildered state of the church, and see with 
 the eye of their mind, that the beauty is fallen from Israel, as on 
 the high places. Cannot some of us say at seasons, ' For these 
 things I weep ; my eye runneth down with water.' Well, dear 
 friend, let not this cause us to faint, for it is a precious thing to be 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 313 
 
 counted worthy to suffer for so noble a cause as righteousness and 
 truth ; let us put on strength, and in the name of the Lord press 
 through every crowd of difficulty and discouragement which 
 may arise in the way ; working in the power of his might, to the 
 pulling down of the strongholds of sin and Satan, not only in our- 
 selves, but in our fellow- creatures ; and establishing the Kingdom 
 of God and his righteousness ; that so an addition to the church 
 militant may be made by the faithfulness of the Lord's chosen, by 
 and through whom he is working wonders, in order that his love, 
 mercy and goodness may be magnified, in gathering sons from far, 
 and daughters from the ends of the earth, that so a glorious addition 
 may be made to the church triumphant. The praise of his own 
 works belongs alone unto Him, who is worthy to receive honour 
 and glory, thanksgiving and high renown ; may my soul, with 
 thousands more, be put in a fit capacity to ascribe it for ever and 
 for ever. 
 
 " I have written in great freedom, which I hope will be received 
 in that love I feel for thee, though I know it looks a little pre- 
 suming for a child in experience to write thus to a father in the 
 church ; but as things arose, I simply penned them." 
 
 " 13th. — On awaking this morning my exercise awoke with me. 
 0, may I be favoured to believe that I am not cast out of the 
 notice and care of my heavenly Father ! May I be corrected, 
 proved, sifted and tried, and brought into order at last. Cleanse 
 me from secret faults, 0 Lord ! thou knowest my heart ; I cannot 
 hide any thing from thee. If more abasement is necessary, may 
 it be my portion. After breakfast went to see my country-woman, 
 Mary Swett, and found she was going with Sarah Harrison to 
 look at a ship in the Thames, bound for Germany. I went along 
 with them, and they expressed peace and satisfaction while sitting 
 in the cabin. Tears were my food, but I endeavoured to sympa- 
 thize with them, and in a feeble manner expressed it. After dinner 
 accompanied several Friends to the examination of the scholars at 
 Clerkenwell, and at the close ventured to address them." 
 
 The following is an extract of a letter, dated Seventh Month 
 23rd, 1 798, addressed to his wife : 
 
 " I am yet in London, and when I shall feel clear and easy to 
 leave it, and when I shall be favoured to leave this land and return 
 to my native one, is at present hid from me. My mind has passed 
 through much exercise and conflict since Yearly Meeting, and 
 
3U 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 I endeavour, as much as in me lies, to possess my soul in patience. 
 How frequently have I thought of llichmond, in Virginia ; how 
 oft it was my lot to encompass that city about as a mountain, and 
 a great one too ; and yet, at the last I left it as light, compara- 
 tively speaking, as a cork, and never unto this day have I had a 
 painful sensation respecting it. A mercy, yea an unspeakable 
 one it will be, should my soul be thus favoured respecting this 
 place, into which I came early in the Fourth Month last. I had 
 been at Brighton, on the sea-coast, and passed through singular 
 exercises in that place ; but after having five or six public meet- 
 ings among them, was favoured to leave the place with sweet en- 
 riching peace. I saw this line of labour along the sea-coast, when 
 I was in the north last summer, and admired how much less was 
 accepted, than was opened and magnified in my view at that time 
 on looking forward. After leaving Brighton, I went with my 
 beloved friend John Bevans, to Hampshire Quarterly Meeting, 
 and again met the women Friends with whom we set out from 
 London. After getting through the Quarterly Meeting, 1 could 
 not see my way into any .meetings belonging to that meeting : I 
 looked towards Plymouth, Falmouth, &c, but all closed up ; so 
 leaving our company, my beloved and tender companion (for so 
 I esteemed him) and I moved on towards London, taking the 
 Quarterly Meeting of Surrey by the way, in which I thought I 
 was in my place ; and from thence came to London. I felt sweet 
 peace on returning, and willingly disposed to refit, and leave it 
 before Yearly Meeting, if it was the Lord's will, but could not. 
 I thought I was in my place during the time of holding that solem- 
 nity ; but since, I have been shut up again, and am labouring after 
 patient resignation to the Divine will. I admire at the love and 
 kindness of my dear friends J. and R. Smith, who continue to be 
 tenderly sympathizing, as also others. Sarah Harrison, Mary 
 Swett, Charity Cook, and George Stacey, started a few days ago for 
 Germany. 1 saw no opening for me to go, though dear Sarah 
 Harrison seemed to look for it, almost to the last. The ways of 
 Divine Providence are a great deep ; too deep for a poor mortal to 
 fathom, and my soul craves that neither heights nor depths, nor 
 any other creature, may ever separate me from the mercy and 
 love of God in Christ Jesus my Lord ; but that my soul may 
 wade through all, and in the end be favoured to say, ' Great and 
 marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty, just and true are 
 all thy ways, thou King of saints ; who shall not fear before thee, 
 and glorify thy name. 1 " 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 315 
 
 " 2±th. — In low moments I appear to myself as an idler ; but 
 am I indeed so, when hiy feelings are so unutterable from day to 
 day ? Will not my feeble efforts in this deep suffering, be accounted 
 as work done in the sight of the great Master { O ! that it may 
 be so, and that I may be favoured to cease in due time from this 
 labour and toil. I crave daily strength to say, Thy will be done, 
 and for patience to endure this fight of affliction. Attended 
 Devonshire House meeting, and soon after I sat down, on seeing 
 an individual come in, this language impressed my mind, and con- 
 tinued so with me, that at length I stood up with it, and en- 
 deavoured to encourage a state which is under buffeting and trials : 
 ' Behold the man :' dear George Dillwyn followed in the same line, 
 and after him William Savery. 
 
 " 25th, Fourth-day. — In the fore part of the meeting to-day, 
 my heart was humbled, and I trust felt a little revival of hope, 
 that the Lord, will carry me through all I have yet to meet with 
 
 in this land My heart is frequently melted within me, 
 
 and my cries with tears are poured out unto thee, 0 Lord ! Thou 
 hast measurably favoured with a sense of thy forgiveness and 
 mercy this morning, even in the deeps. William Savery closed 
 the meeting in solemn prayer, in which I united with tears, and 
 perhaps I never felt greater love for him at any time in my life 
 than in this meeting. I spent the evening with him, and took an 
 affectionate farewell ; and this was the language of my soul when 
 I left him ; 0 ! Fountain of mercy, open the way for me to labour 
 — remove the clouds ; and be with my dear fellow-servant, and 
 safely waft him over the great deep to his family and friends in 
 peace. 
 
 " 26th. — I walked to Ratcliff meeting alone, and towards the 
 close was engaged in prayer. 0 ! what a dispensation this is ; how 
 I mourn along the streets of London ; and am ready to cry unto 
 God. After leaving dear William Savery last evening, I felt how 
 easy it would be for all-powerful Help to change my condition 
 from weakness to strength and firmness. The Lord has been my 
 helper hitherto, surely he will not leave me in this distant land, a 
 poor, solitary man, as a desolate captive passing to and fro. I 
 hope at times, that a blessing will spring out of my trials, if my 
 faith and confidence fail not. When I can believe that I am 
 doing or suffering the Lord's will, it balances my soul, and is 
 enough for the moment. 1 went to Whitechapel burial ground 
 
 to the burial of Captain ; a number of his little sailor boys 
 
 and others were there. 1 felt the evening before, an unusual im- 
 
316 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 pression on being invited to attend, and was favoured to speak 
 at the grave — it was a time of tears, and some of the lads wept 
 aloud. 
 
 " 27th. — To the children's meeting at Olerkenwell ; it was small, 
 but to my great admiration, my heart was enlarged to speak to 
 the visited minds under trial; and afterwards [I] appeared in sup- 
 plication. 
 
 "Eighth Month 4<th, Seventh-day. — An humbling morning, and 
 yet I hope I see that a day of deliverance and enlargement will 
 come, if patience is abode in. And must I indeed wait longer 
 and be content thus to be shut up ? Yes, I can make nothing : 
 the maker and builder of all things is God. 0 ! then, the prayer 
 of my soul is, that thou wouldest bless me indeed, that thy good 
 hand may condescend to be with me, and that thou wouldest en- 
 large my coast, and keep me from evil, that it may not grieve my 
 soul. Cover thy servant with the mantle of love, and bring up 
 out of the deeps ; forgive his iniquities, for thy name and mercy 
 sake, and qualify him to teach his fellow-creatures thy ways. 
 
 0 ! that I could once more be favoured, through thy heavenly 
 power, to convert and call sinners unto thee. Thou hast done 
 much for me — favour me 0 Lord ! I pray thee, to love thee and 
 thy cause, yet much more. 
 
 " 5th, First-day. — Attended the meeting at Wandsworth, where 
 
 1 had to deliver a close testimony. I thought myself unworthy, 
 and yet feared to omit the opportunity presented. Amongst other 
 things told them of a people who chant to the sound of the viol, 
 and invented for themselves instruments of music, but forgot the 
 afflictions of Joseph. I was afterward informed it was true, and 
 that there was not strength in the meeting to labour with such. 
 
 « 7th. — Took a lonely walk, in which I remembered how I was 
 tried, when in the utmost bounds of Georgia, in my native land. 
 There I was proved for a season, and then a notable work and ser- 
 vice opened, and through Divine assistance was performed, and 1 
 returned with a good share of sweet enriching peace. I also remem- 
 bered, that when in New England, my soul was proved and tried, 
 how I lamented my state in a lonely place in the woods, and 
 afterwards was made use of in reconciling a meeting, and bring- 
 ing them back into love and unity. 
 
 " In the afternoon went to the girls 1 school ; and soon after I 
 sat down in the large room, where the children were at work ; they 
 laid aside their work, and a comfortable silence ensued, in which 
 I felt my mind not only drawn forth in communication, but also 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 317 
 
 in prayer, and my own children were remembered, and those of my 
 fellow-servants labouring in this land. It was a very tendering 
 time, and I felt astonished that it should be so, on looking at 
 my poor, stripped state. 
 
 " 10th. — I sensibly felt my solitary condition this morning, and 
 I said in my heart, May I still be preserved patient this one day 
 more : ' Cast thy burden on the Lord, he shall sustain thee. 1 
 Lord, indulge thy servant with this favour. 
 
 " 11th. — Prayer with tears this morning. ' And the king said 
 unto Zadok, carry back the ark of God into the city ; if I shall 
 find favour in the eyes of the Lord, he will bring me again and 
 show me both it and his habitation. But if he say, I have no 
 delicht in thee, behold here am I, let him do to me as seemeth 
 good unto him.' 0 ! holy confidence in this afflicted servant, even 
 when he thought he was justly afflicted of his God, thus to cast 
 himself on the Lord : better to fall into the hands of the Lord, 
 than into the hands of men, for as is his majesty, so is his mercy. 
 When shall my feet be again shod with the prepara- 
 tion of the gospel, and my commission be sealed to go forth. I 
 long at times that it may be so, but am checked and stopped by 
 remembering, that if I am happily doing and suffering according 
 to the will of God, I am doing what I should do ; and with Him, 
 unto whom a thousand years are as one day, my time spent in this 
 manner may prove acceptable — so be it, saith my soul. 
 
 " 19th, First-day. — Had an open opportunity at Tottenham 
 meeting to plead with the rich and gay, and also bent in prayer, 
 and supplicated for the poor prisoners, both such as were so in 
 spirit, and those outwardly in bonds; and also for the poor wander- 
 ing emigrants, who are driven from their homes and all they hold 
 dear: felt comfortable after meeting. I long to be set further at 
 work ; and stand resigned and willing in this respect. In the 
 afternoon meeting I felt an opening to encourage the burden- 
 bearers and mourners. 
 
 " Ninth Month 3rd, Second-day. — Have a hope I am in my 
 place, having felt on rising an intimation to be still, and wait in 
 patience. The Lord grant it may be so, with a sufficient portion 
 of faith to believe. 
 
 ** 5th. — I attended the burial of Benjamin Head, whose body 
 was brought from London to Tottenham meeting-house. To my 
 admiration I was favoured, out of weakness, to be raised into 
 strength, and had an encouraging tendering opportunity. 
 
 " 7th, First-day. — I am so stripped this morning, on arising 
 and dressing, that if I can say in truth, ' Lord have mercy ; ' — 
 
318 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTKRGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 ' Lord, save or I perish ; ' it is as far as I think I can go. Went 
 to meeting very poor ; but again through Divine favour I was 
 raised up in some degree of strength. I could not be easy with- 
 out inviting the people at large to attend a meeting at five o'clock 
 this evening, which was much filled up, and proved an open, solid 
 time. 
 
 " 13th, Fifth-day. — Scattered a few tears this morning in my 
 chamber on taking a view of my state ; yet not without hope. 
 Elisha had hope when he confidently said to his master Elijah, 
 'As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee.' 
 His master was a type of my Lord and Master, Jesus Christ, who 
 ever liveth to make intercession for us ; who, though ascended up 
 on high, still regards the low estate of his servants: — have faith 
 then, 0 my soul ! in his most Holy name, who can open a way 
 where no way appears. 
 
 " 15th. — Received a letter from Mary Dudley ; amongst other 
 sweet sisterly expressions, the following overcame me, and brought 
 me into contrition: 'My mind, according to its capacity, has felt for 
 thee, under sensations resembling deep uttering unto deep ; so 
 that I cannot admit a doubt of its having been with thy tribulated 
 spirit a time of sorrow and distress ; out of which if thou art not 
 yet brought, the Lord will assuredly deliver thee, and put the 
 new song into thy mouth ; for he that has anointed is faithful, 
 and will open the two-leaved gates, and cut in sunder the bars 
 of iron.' 
 
 " 16th, First-day.— To Winchmore Hill with T. H., where 
 came many gay folks. I went in weakness aud under a sense of 
 great unworthiness, and sat the fore part of the meeting much so ; 
 but could not be easy without labouring with them from the wise 
 man's expressions concerning weights and measures, settling with 
 partners, putting all down in writing, &c, alluding to merchants 
 who are very punctual in settling their accounts weekly, and thus 
 find it easy to balance them at the years 1 end ; which drew me to 
 speak of settling our accounts with the Almighty, day by day, 
 that so a heavy account might not remain against us in a time of 
 sickness and death. I told them 1 believed no one there had come 
 to that meeting in a sense of greater weakness and unworthiness 
 than myself. — Upon returning 1 feel more light and easy. How 
 pleasant to feel thus, even for a moment. 
 
 " 19th. — My soul seems let down into sympathy 
 
 with the wretched among men — 0 ! poor tried and tempted man, 
 thou hast an advocate with the Father, who was also tempted 
 and tried, even Jesus Christ the righteous. 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 319 
 
 " 22nd. — A newspaper was brought to me, containing informa- 
 tion that the yellow fever had broken out in Philadelphia, and 
 the inhabitants were very generally leaving the city. I am thank- 
 ful that my mind was favoured with such quiet this morning. 
 
 " 23rd, First-day. — This morning I looked home and said, 
 Lord, I desire to submit all to thy disposal, who knowest best what 
 is best for us ; and was willing to offer up a prayer and tear for 
 the inhabitants of Philadelphia ; and thought also of the poor 
 sailors wounded and mangled in the war in the Mediterranean. 
 Lord, thy power, thy mercy, spread over sea and land. I was 
 favoured with a pretty full and open time at Tottenham meeting. 
 The afternoon meeting was put off to six o'clock, and the neigh- 
 bours invited ; it was a large, and I trust a solid meeting, and I 
 felt relieved and comfortable after it. 
 
 " 2^th. — Attended the select Quarterly Meeting of London, 
 which was small, many members being abroad at watering-places. 
 I had a pretty relieving opportunity after the queries were gone 
 through, and in the close was engaged in prayer. 
 
 " 25th. — Attended the Quarterly Meeting, and laboured in the 
 first meeting ; that for business was an exercising time, but at 
 length a committee was appointed to sit with Friends of Totten- 
 ham, and try to help them over the difficulties respecting tithes 
 and the payers of them. 
 
 "26^. — A more wakeful night than usual, and in those wakeful 
 moments it seemed as though I had to go through yesterday's 
 meeting again. 0 ! how distressing is the state of these Tobiahs 
 and Sanballats, who oppose the work, and yet are willing to be 
 thought in their places. 
 
 " Tenth Month 4<th, Fifth day. — Went this morning to West- 
 minster meeting, which was small, but to me a quiet sweet time, 
 wherein my heart was a little enlarged and lifted up, and endea- 
 voured to encourage others to trust in the Lord. Mary Watson 
 closed the meeting, I thought weightily, in solemn prayer. 
 
 " \0th. — Although no opening presents to move away from 
 London and its neighbourhood, yet I feel a comfortable degree of 
 calmness and resignation. I am going into the city to look out a 
 little, resembling, I think, the prophet's servant, who was bid to 
 go again and again to look for the arising of the cloud, which after 
 a time appeared the bigness of a man's hand. Is there not a 
 cloud gathering ? I beg for support and sustaining help a little 
 longer. Attended Gracechurch Street meeting, where dear Mary 
 Watson was much favoured. She seemed to have the same 
 
320 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [179S. 
 
 weapon put into her hand which I was formerly favoured with : 
 my spirit united while she pleaded with some who had known 
 better days." 
 
 In a letter to his son, dated Walthamstow, William Dillwyn's, 
 Tenth Month 13th, 1798, he says : 
 
 "It is now more than six months since I last came into London, 
 and I have been there and near it most of the time since, and 
 perhaps I may say, that I never experienced a more humbling, 
 trying dispensation ; no way opening from hence, either to any 
 part of the kingdom which I have not visited, or to go home. I 
 humbly trust I am as a servant in waiting ; and if my heavenly 
 Master is pleased to accept of suffering, buffetings, siftings, and 
 deep and close trials, as work done, or as filling up my measure, 
 then there is a hope that joy will spring up in the morning, 
 after the night of darkness passeth away. My mind has been 
 turned toward you for months past, and as I looked out of my 
 chamber window this frosty morning, I thought, How is it in 
 Philadelphia ? Have hundreds been numbered to the grave ? Has 
 the cold hand of death been laid on my family and relations, or is 
 the sickness once more removed by frosty weather \ I have 
 earnestly laboured for months past after a qualification, morning 
 by morning, and often with tears of exercise and conflict, to say, 
 'Not my will, but thine, 0 Lord! be done, respecting me and all 
 that appertains to me; ' and here I have left you, under the care 
 and protection of Him who numbers the hairs of our head, and 
 without whose notice not a sparrow can fall to the ground ; and if 
 he is pleased to permit me to see and enjoy you in a state of 
 mutability, any or all of you, I have said in my heart, it will be 
 a mercy — a favour to be acknowledged; and if otherwise, — if the 
 all-wise and merciful Being is pleased to take any of you to a 
 better place, even a more enriching and enduring habitation, His 
 
 will be done I salute you with tender solicitude and 
 
 love, desiring to hear from you soon, and have yet a hope in due 
 time, of seeing the way open with clearness to return. Time is 
 the Lord's, and through all I hope he has not cast me off from 
 being his servant. Blessed be his holy name, my soul yet craves 
 ability to glorify Him, even in the fires." 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 321 
 
 CHAPTER XV. 
 
 1798, 1799. RELIGIOUS ENGAGEMENTS IN LONDON CONTINUED 
 
 LETTER FROM REBECCA JONES LETTER FROM A RELATIVE WRITES 
 
 TO HIS FAMILY HAS SOME RELIGIOUS SERVICE AMONG SOME 
 
 PRISONERS IN LONDON — LETTER FROM DAVID SANDS VISITS KENT 
 
 WRITES TO RERECCA JONES — RETURNS TO LONDON. 
 
 " Tenth Mouth \Uh, First-day. — J. Smith accompanied me to 
 Devonshire meeting. I felt very low on going, and for some 
 time after I sat down in it ; but life and strength arose, and I had 
 a pretty open time in ministering to a state under trials and 
 temptations. Near the close an opening to the people at large 
 presented quite unexpectedly, and I was favoured with cheerful- 
 ness and resignation to give up to it, and appoint a meeting at 
 six o'clock. In the afternoon meeting was silent. At the 
 appointed meeting I was favoured with a comfortable relieving 
 time. How wonderful are the works of God in leading, instruct- 
 ing and feeding his messengers, and qualifying them to speak to 
 the people. 1 was favoured to give up immediately, without con- 
 sulting with flesh and blood, to the holding of this meeting, and 
 had amongst other things to speak of Paul's so yielding to the 
 heavenly vision. 
 
 " 30th. — Another humbling, heart-searching, heart-break in <r 
 morning. The gathering of manna is a daily work ; and if I can 
 be enabled to say, ' Thy will be done and not mine, 1 morning by 
 morning, and evening by evening, this is manna enough. This 
 has been a day of sorrow, and yet may I be truly content, or as 
 much so as such a poor creature dare to look for. ' I cry unto 
 thee, O Lord ! and thou dost not hear me : I stand up, and thou 
 regardest me not. 1 ' Thou liftest me up to the wind ; thou causest 
 me to ride upon it, and dissolvest my substance. 1 ' When I looked 
 for good, then evil came unto me : and when I waited for light, 
 there came darkness. My bowels boiled, and rested not : the days 
 of affliction prevented me.' How descriptive of a state of desertion, 
 seeming desertion to us. Even our adorable Higli Priest cried out 
 in agony, ' My God, why hast thou forsaken me ? 1 and again at 
 another time, ' I know that thou hearest me always.' Why may 
 
 Y 
 
322 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 we not believe, that by and through the intercession of so great an 
 High Priest, our prayers and our secret cries are heard and 
 noticed. ' Lord, I believe, help thou my unbelief.' 
 
 " 31 st. — I crave to be favoured to know an increase in this ex- 
 perience ; to be careful for nothing, but in everything with prayers 
 and supplications, with thanksgiving, to let my wants be known 
 unto God. Notwithstanding all I meet with, there is abundance 
 to be thankful for. Lord, forgive me my frowardness and uneasi- 
 ness in this sifting, proving time ; wherein my faith and confidence 
 in thy protection and care have indeed been proved. 
 
 " Eleventh Month 2nd. — I remembered these expressions of 
 afflicted Job, on laying down this afternoon : ' Terrors are come 
 upon me, they pursue my soul as the wind, and my welfare passeth 
 away as a cloud,'' &c. In the evening T. H. brought me a letter 
 from E. Cadbury to J. Smith, enclosing a paragraph of a letter 
 from her sister, at Burlington, giving an account, that my wife, 
 son and daughter Mary had had the yellow fever. My dear Mary 
 closed her life on the 3rd of Ninth Month in the morning ; and it 
 was thought my beloved Sarah and son J oseph were on the re- 
 covery. I trembled when the letter was put into my hands to read ; 
 having had a hint of its contents before from my friend. After 
 pausing a while, took it up again, and made another attempt, but 
 failed, and got Martha Horne to read it to me. My dear friends 
 fell into silent sympathy with me, and I' not only thought with 
 afflicted Job, but expressed it ; ' The Lord gave and the Lord bath 
 taken away ; blessed be the name of the Lord. ' " 
 
 The following extracts from a letter from Eebccca Jones, dated 
 Burlington, Ninth Month 26th, 1798, will give some further 
 particulars, viz : 
 
 " My Beloved Friend and Brother, 
 " It came into my mind this morning, feeling thee preciouslv 
 brought into view, to spend a little time in thus communing with 
 thee. I find by accounts lately received from England by divers 
 Friends here, that thou as yet dost not find a door of escape from 
 the arduous field, in which thou hast been engaged honestly to 
 labour upwards of four years, — so that, though we are looking for 
 the return of dear William Savery, (who has professed himself 
 clear,) our expectation and hope are suppressed concerning thy 
 returning with him. Fervent is my solicitude on thy account, 
 dear Tbomas, that thy sheaves may be full, whenever the Master 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 323 
 
 may be pleased to say to thy exercised spirit, ' It is enough, go 
 in peace.' Dear Sarah Harrison, we hear, is unexpectedly drawn 
 towards Germany, and Mary Swett with her ; this will be a fresh 
 trial of faith and patience to her, and to her beloved husband : if 
 thou writest her, do hand to her and Mary Swett, the salutation 
 of my endeared love. 
 
 " Thou wilt hear by other letters, that our city has been per- 
 mitted once more to feel the dire effects of the contagious disease, 
 which carried off so many in 1793, and again the last year. This 
 then is the third stroke of the kind, and by all accounts, more 
 severe than the two preceding, by which many are numbered to 
 the silent grave, both in our city and in New York, where also 
 it spreads rapidly. Chester and Wilmington also are under the 
 same humbling hand. From all these places, the greater part of 
 the inhabitants removed early ; but of those who remained, many 
 have died, though many have also recovered, and some of these 
 left their homes soon after. 
 
 Ci As thou art more qualified to enter into our feelings than some 
 others, by having been amongst us in the year 1793, I need not 
 say a great deal on that head, and yet it will excite the tribute of 
 gratitude and thanksgiving to the Father of mercies, to know that 
 thy dear wife and son, and several other Friends who are near 
 and dear to us, have been safely brought through the disease : 
 several known to thee in New York, as well as Philadelphia, &c, 
 have fared otherwise ; concerning divers of them it is sealed upon 
 my spirit, that they have in a state of innocency, and measurable 
 preparation of soul, passed quietly out of this vale of tears, into a 
 joyous eternity of bliss and happiness. 
 
 " The time for holding our Yearly Meeting in course, is this 
 week ; but so few Friends are in the city, and the disease is so very 
 heavy, that a few of the representatives met last Second-day, and 
 have believed it best to adjourn to the second week in next Twelfth 
 Month ; and their so doing has been truly relieving to the minds 
 of many Friends in the country, as well as citizens that are out. 
 Yet, that there should be so solemn and trying a cause for it, is 
 deeply affecting to many of us, who see with awfulness the renewed 
 judgments of the Almighty displayed, and still have reason to fear 
 the people in general are not learning righteousness ! But the 
 subject, my dear friend, is too heavy for me to enlarge upon at 
 present. 
 
 " I spent Second-day at thy father IToskins'', and found thy dear 
 Sarah and thy aged mother, who, though much weakened in her 
 
 v 2 
 
324 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 faculties, is innocent and in good health, so that it would have been 
 quite pleasant being with them, but for thinking of thee, and that 
 thy mind would be affected when thou hearest the sequel of the 
 account, that thy precious daughter Mary is removed to a better 
 inheritance. She did not lie many days struggling with the 
 disease ; her dear mother lying ill at the same time, was not ac- 
 quainted with the solemn event, until she gained a little strength, 
 and then bore it like a Christian, as I much desire and believe thou 
 wilt, though nature will feel on the occasion. I believe thy dear 
 child was in a state of innocence, and I had several times of late 
 noticed her improvement in solidity as she advanced in growth, 
 nearly to the stature of a young woman ; and her tenderness for 
 her dear mother was such, that though they wished her to stay at 
 Burlington, where she was a few weeks before, she entreated them 
 to let her go and be with her connexions in the city. 
 
 " My desire is, that this circumstance may not improperly affect 
 or discourage thee, so as to prevent thy proceeding with diligence 
 to finish what appears to remain of the work given thee to do ; 
 which when completed, thy dear connexions and friends will rejoice 
 to receive thee again amongst them. 
 
 " Hebecca Jones.' 1 
 
 The reader will also be interested, it is thought, in the following 
 additional remarks from another hand, viz : 
 
 Burlington, Ninth Month '60th, 1798. 
 
 " Dear Cousin, 
 
 " It is from a renewed feeling of best love, I trust, that I am 
 engaged to address thee in this way, though in weakness. Fre- 
 quently during thy absence from this land, I have, in my small 
 measure, affectionately sympathized with thee in thy arduous en- 
 gagement to promote the reign of peace on earth : and although 
 from a fear of improperly intruding upon thy attention, I have 
 hitherto been deterred from writing, it is not the first time I have 
 had it impressively on my mind. However sensible, that to me 
 belongs blushing and confusion of face, in the prospect of multiplied 
 defections from the right way of the Lord, and this more in the 
 way of secret faults, and what by some might be esteemed things 
 of no moment, than of open violations of the law and the command- 
 ment, yet being through the mercy andloviug-kindness of the Father 
 of us all, at seasons quickened to an ardency of desire, that I may 
 more and more aspire after further attainments in, and a deeper 
 acquaintance with the work of sanctifieation in the soul, I have 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 325 
 
 likewise felt ;i degree of .solicitude, that thousands who are yet 
 strangers to the blessed principle of light and grace inwardly 
 revealed, may not only be brought to behold its unspeakable excel- 
 lency, but to close in with it, and become subject to its blessed 
 government. Hence I have found my heart to flow with love in- 
 expressible towards those who are called conspicuously to hold up 
 the standard of righteousness to the nations, and publish the glad 
 tidings of the gospel to near and to distant lands. It has appeared 
 to me a time of great commotion in the world, perhaps unequalled 
 by any which has existed at any former period : not only wars 
 and rumours of wars mournfully prevail, but opinions and systems 
 which have not the stamp of irrefutable certainty, are made to 
 totter on their bases ; the chains which have enslaved men's minds 
 for ages, are measurably loosened, and unlimited freedom of inquiry, 
 spreads far and wide. It is, however, to be lamented, that the spirit 
 of the age has extended too far into the other extreme ; and instead 
 of bigotry and superstition, unrestrained licentiousness seems ready 
 to overwhelm the people, and to lead them still further from the 
 knowledge of the true God. Nevertheless, I believe that the faith- 
 ful are at seasons favoured to behold a Divine hand through all, 
 and that it is the gracious intention of the All-seeing One, to 
 bring about great and marvellous acts : and O ! how important has 
 it appeared in my view, that the professors of Christianity every- 
 where, more especially within our pale, withdraw themselves from 
 everything that defileth, so as to exhibit to the world in its native 
 dignity and purity, the peaceful nature of the religion of Jesus ; 
 thus becoming instrumental, by the sufficiency of his grace, to pro- 
 mote his work and advance his kingdom. 
 
 " And, beloved cousin, however deep the baptisms, and closely 
 trying the exercises, which those who are sent on the Lord's 
 errands in this day have to undergo, yet I have thought, that over 
 and above the secret sustaining support which never fails, even in 
 times of the greatest extremity, there is great encouragement to 
 such, in the reflection, that it is a day in which way is making in 
 the hearts of many for a more ready reception of the truth, and 
 wherein its messengers may be more distinguishedly instrumental 
 in bringing people home to its saving efficacy. Is it not to be 
 supposed, that notwithstanding the vast strides which vice and 
 profligacy have made, the number of those among various classes 
 is great, who, seeing the fallacy of mere forms and creeds and pro- 
 fessions of religion, are led to seek after something that will afford 
 their unsettled minds real consolation and support ? 
 
326 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 " The sound of Avar which has so long disturbed the tranquillity 
 of Europe, has at length also reached our borders ; whether it 
 will be permitted to increase to any very alarming degree, is not 
 for us at present to know ; but be this as it may, we have awful 
 proof that the Majesty on high can use other means for the punish- 
 ment of a gainsaying and backsliding people. Poor Philadel- 
 phia is a melancholy instance ; again has the pestilential cloud 
 broken upon her ; again have her streets become almost desolate, 
 and the voice of sadness is heard therein. The yellow fever in its 
 highest malignancy has now prevailed there for nearly two months, 
 and it is generally allowed, to a pitch far exceeding the memorable 
 year, ] 793, so that notwithstanding the citizens have, in a more 
 general manner, left it than at any former similar period, the num - 
 ber of deaths considerably exceed that of 1793, within the same 
 dates. New York is at this time, and has been for several weeks 
 past, in a situation not far behind it in distress, and the desertion 
 thereof by the inhabitants nearly as extensive. Boston has like- 
 wise had a share in the calamity, though in a less degree ; also 
 Portsmouth in New Hampshire, and New London in Connecticut. 
 At Chester and "Wilmington it has raged, it is thought, propor- 
 tionately to the number of inhabitants, at least to a degree equal 
 to Philadelphia ; and at several places, both in Pennsylvania and 
 this state, it has made its appearance. Thus thou wilt perceive, 
 in what a solemn manner the sword of chastisement has again 
 been unsheathed, and ah ! that it may be effectual to humble the 
 haughtiness of man — to show the children of folly and disobe- 
 dience the emptiness of every mundane hope, and induce them to 
 repentance and amendment of life. 
 
 " Among a large number of fugitives that have come hither for 
 shelter, are about twenty Friends 1 families, among which is our 
 beloved friend Sarah Scattergood, with thy mother, Joseph, 
 Rebecca and the young woman. Thou wilt no doubt by other 
 channels, be informed of many particulars respecting them, but I 
 apprehend it would be right for me to attempt to communicate 
 something, and indeed this is a principal motive of my writing at 
 this time. They remained in the city until within about two or 
 three weeks of the present time, and experienced a most trying, 
 exercising season ; for although it appears they were favoured with 
 a remarkable degree of stayedness and resignation, yet the con- 
 sideration of what would be best for them, relative to staying or 
 leaving town, became a close trial. This will best appear by a 
 letter which I received from thy precious son Joseph, whose con- 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 327 
 
 duct during this dispensation of Divine Providence, has heen 
 comfortably rejoicing to his friends ; I shall transcribe a part, viz : 
 'Eighth Month 28th. — Having a short space 'of time to spare, 
 previous to the gathering of our meeting this morning, I thought 
 I could do no less than acknowledge the receipt of thy truly 
 affectionate and sympathizing lines. To be apprised of the re- 
 membrance and love of our friends at such a trying season as the 
 present, is peculiarly grateful. Mother also received a letter from 
 aunt Mary Newbold, expressive of the strong desire of our friends 
 for our retreat from the city ; it was put into her hands just as 
 she was going into select meeting yesterday, after which we were 
 both at grandfather Bacon's, and he strongly recommended a com- 
 pliance with the request. Whilst we were engaged on the subject, 
 uncle Jonathan Evans came in and earnestly joined in the same 
 sentiment, acknowledging he had been some time uneasy about us, 
 and wished much that we were gone. After all that, the matter 
 seemed to devolve solely upon ourselves, and mother passed through 
 an afternoon of exercise, and perhaps I may venture to say I was 
 not altogether void of feeling on the occasion : no strength was 
 
 OCT O 
 
 afforded to engage in the business. Well, dear cousin, I feel it to 
 be a time of uncertainty with us, and my heart and eyes are fre- 
 quently affected when I contemplate the scene that is around me ; 
 I now feel more than I have language to express, so must affec- 
 tionately bid thee for the present, farewell.' A note at the bottom 
 of the same letter, says : ' Since closing the foregoing I went into 
 the house and found mother in bed with a chill, &c. : if thou thiuk- 
 est it will do, mention it with caution — thus trials are multiplying 
 fast upon us.' 
 
 " While at meeting he began to bo unwell himself, which ter- 
 minated in the prevailing disorder, and Mary was taken down 
 about the same time, so that indeed they became a very afflicted 
 family. But yet they were not forsaken or neglected ; the faithful 
 woman who lived with them, and who did not take the disorder, 
 was very attentive and useful in taking care of them. Also 
 Edward Oarrigues and Nathan A. Smith, evinced on the occasion, 
 as well as many others during the calamity, a truly Christian tender- 
 ness and sympathy, providing them with nurses, necessary things, 
 and visiting them daily. Joseph had a pretty smart turn of it, 
 yet his symptoms were thought to be rather of the more favourable 
 kind ; but cousin Sarah and Mary were severely attacked — the 
 first lay several days so low that her recovery seemed doubtful, 
 and when she arrived to a state of convalescence, she acquired her 
 
328 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 strength but slowly. But lovely, innocent Mary — how shall I 
 speak of her ! I feel near sympathy with thee on her account, 
 and yet thou well knowest, that He whose dispensations are all in 
 wisdom, has a right to dispose of us as he sees meet, and that 
 when he inclines to take even such as are most near to us, unto 
 himself, it is rather a cause of rejoicing than of grief. After 
 struggling with the disorder for several days, she was taken from 
 a world of temptation, to join, I trust, the blessed in the realms of 
 purity and love. We are sweetly confirmed in this persuasion, 
 in remembering that her conduct and deportment of later time 
 evidenced an improvement, and that although her disposition was 
 naturally volatile, her mind was in a great measure kept free from 
 the taints of impurity. Consonant herewith is the opinion of 
 Thomas Moore, a valuable religious young Englishman, with whom 
 I understand thou wast acquainted in England. Being in company 
 with him at Darby, where he at present sojourns, our conversation 
 turned upon thy family, and speaking of Mary, he remarked in 
 substance thus, ' As I Avas sitting with the family, a short time 
 before I left the city, and observing her innocent deportment and 
 solidity, it rejoiced me to think she was improving, and what a com- 
 fort she was likely to be to her father on his return.' An extract 
 from another letter of Joseph's to cousin Rachel Hoskins, directly 
 after his getting out the first time, I am induced also to transcribe, 
 viz : — ' Ninth Month 9th. — Having arrived through favour, at a 
 state of pretty tolerable strength, I feel my mind influenced, I trust, 
 in best love again to address my dear cousin in this way. I feel 
 as if I could not enter into any very minute detail of the afflictive 
 dispensation, which no doubt in the ordering of best wisdom, hath* 
 within these two weeks past, fallen to our lot ; indeed I am ready 
 to conclude it is hardly necessary, as I have but little doubt you 
 have received nearly every particular from the pens of our truly 
 kind and attentive friends E. Carrigues and N. Smith ; they 
 have been indefatigable in their attention, by visiting us divers 
 times in a day, and in procuring necessaries. I hope and believe 
 their reward is sure. I got down stairs last Fifth-day, but was 
 very weak — have been mending fast ever since — got out this 
 morning to meeting, being the longest walk I had taken, but find 
 myself not the worse for it. When I first went out, I think 
 there was not a person to be seen in the street, and as I passed 
 along my own footsteps sounded solemnly r in my ears ; truly I 
 thought none but those who are actually on the spot could form 
 an adequate idea of the solemnity of the scene, which our dis- 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 329 
 
 tressed, depopulated city exhibits. I have also the satisfaction of 
 informing thee that dear mother is mending : yesterday was the 
 first of her being apprised of the death of dear sister Mary — 
 she bears it with fortitude beyond what we expected ; her weak 
 state would not admit of an earlier discovery. The day of her 
 decease was the first of my attempting to sit up, and though so 
 weak as to be just able to move a little about the room, I could 
 not be easy without trying to get down to see her remains — which 
 I effected, and beheld them decently laid out ; her countenance 
 was exceedingly yellow, but a pleasing innocence was fixed thereon, 
 and an evidence seemed to possess my mind, that she was taken 
 from the evil to come, and out of the way of many temptations, 
 into those perpetually abiding habitations, where joy and peace 
 for ever dwell ; therefore, what excuse is there for mourning V 
 
 " After cousin Sarah and Joseph had pretty well recovered, the 
 way opened for the family's coming to this place, which was 
 accomplished without much difficulty. Her accustomed meekness 
 and serenity did not forsake her in this time of affliction, her mind 
 being strengthened and supported by that Almighty Power, who 
 fails not to be strength in weakness, and an impregnable fortress 
 to which the righteous may flee, and find safety in times of trouble ; 
 so that she might adopt the language, (as dear Samuel Emlen told 
 her in my hearing,) ' All thy waves and thy billows passed over 
 me. 
 
 " 21«£, Fourth-day. — To Peel Monthly Meeting, where dear 
 George Stacey, who returned last First-day from Germany, gave 
 in an account of his travels there with S. Harrison, 0. Cook, 
 and M. Swett, and he being encouraged to go to the women's meet- 
 ing, I felt a liberty to go and sit by him : and after he had given 
 in his account there, I felt a motion to kneel down and return 
 thanks for their preservation, and to pray that the Almighty might 
 be pleased to protect all his servants and messengers whom he has 
 sent forth in this land. 
 
 " 22nd. — I feel deeply for the inhabitants of this city, and 
 sorrow for them at seasons. Attended meeting at Westminster 
 with Mary Stacey, where tears with anguish of soul were my 
 portion ; until a young man kneeled down in supplication, and 
 appeared dipped into my feelings ; and having before apprehended 
 that duty would fall on me before the conclusion of the meeting, 
 upon his closing I gave up to it, and felt enlargement to pray for 
 the inhabitants of this city, for the poor amongst men, who have 
 
330 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1798. 
 
 no helper but the Lord, and that if it was his pleasure, in un- 
 speakable wisdom, to humble aud bend the sturdy oaks, he may 
 be pleased also thus to manifest his mercy. 
 
 " 23rd. — This has been a day of retirement, in which I have 
 felt a comfortable degree of resignation and quiet ; and in reading 
 the Bible, some passages in Revelations, &c, were more opened to 
 my view than ever before. I trust that in this deep plunging 
 season for many months past, I have had a degree of fellowship 
 with the sufferers in ages past, viz: David, Job, Jeremiah, &c, and 
 also with my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ ; and O ! how I 
 should rejoice in being favoured once more with strength to go 
 forth and publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of the 
 wondrous works of the Lord. This I know the mighty One of 
 Israel can accomplish in me and for me, if it be his will. But, if 
 it is his pleasure to strip me longer, and that I must yet remain 
 desolate, sitting on the ground, ' Not my will, but thine be done, 
 0 God.' Pardon me, and cast all my iniquities behind thy back." 
 
 In a letter dated Eleventh Month 28th, 1798, at London, to 
 his family, he says : 
 
 " Great indeed has been the travail of my soul in secret for six 
 months past. I could copy many things from my little diary which 
 would convince my friends that I have not been idle, and I have 
 thought sometimes if it was my Master's good pleasure to remove 
 me from my troubles here, the account of my time spent from day 
 to day would witness for me ; for indeed I have been a mournful 
 Jeremiah in and near London, and but little can I do but weep, 
 and wait for those days to be over, and to hear this language, ' It 
 is enough. 1 I have not drawn back from any labour which was 
 clearly pointed out in my own land, neither do I find this charge 
 against me here, though of late weeks it has been a time of as deep 
 searching of heart as ever my soul has experienced. Yet after all, 
 with deep humility, I acknowledge 1 have not been faultless. 
 AVhat a hard thing it is, when plunged into the deeps, to be con- 
 tent in the will of God. What a hard thing for the unsubjected 
 will, wit, and reason of man to become a fool — one of no repu- 
 tation. Truly I have thought, my soul never was made so 
 sensible of what the patriarchs, prophets, and mournful sufferers 
 in their day and generation passed through, and of the agonizing 
 pangs of Him unto whom the heathen was given for an inherit- 
 ance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for a possession, who 
 also "•ave his cheeks to the smiter, and his face to them that 
 
1798.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 331 
 
 plucked oft' the hair, who hid not his face from shame and spitting, 
 nor withheld his head from the crown of thorns, or his body from 
 the cross ; and all this willingly for our sakes ; unto whom I beg 
 ability to look up in all my struggles and trials. My soul can 
 say of late with the royal Psalmist, ' 0 Lord God of my salvation, 
 I have cried day and night before thee; let my prayer come before 
 thee; incline thine ear unto my cry : for my soul is full of troubles, 
 and my life draweth nigh unto the grave. I am counted with 
 them that go down into the pit : I am as a man that has no 
 strength : free among the dead, like the slain that lie in the grave, 
 whom thou rememberest no more, and they are cut off by thy 
 hand : thy hand lieth hard upon me, thou hast afflicted me 
 with all thy waves : thou hast put away mine acquaintance far 
 from me, I am shut up ; I cannot come forth.' 
 
 " Twelfth Month 25th, Third-day. — Awoke early this morning 
 and arose more calm and quiet, and I hope truly disposed to say, 
 'Here am I, Lord, send me. 1 How precious to feel this even for a 
 little moment : how comfortable in the outward, after a storm of 
 tossing and danger, to experience an easy breeze ; and so it is in 
 a religious sense. I have had days of tossing and trouble for many 
 months past, and now if it should consist with the will of the 
 Lord, to grant me some ease and liberty of spirit, how thankful 
 ought my soul to be. Hut it is not for me to judge : if more 
 suffering is best, I ought likewise to be resigned to say, 'Here am 
 1 : 1 Thy will be done, my heavenly Master. Keep thy tried 
 servant from falling. 
 
 " Attended the Quarterly Meeting, which was very large ; and 
 to my thankful and humble admiration, much labour fell to my 
 lot ; my heart being opened and enlarged, both in testimony and 
 in supplication. The business was conducted comfortably, and 
 the meeting ended so. I felt a change in my situation last even- 
 ing before I lay down, and went to bed more calm and comfortable 
 in mind, when an opening presented of enlargement in the Quar- 
 terly Meeting, which has now been fulfilled ; also the renewal of 
 a prospect which has for some months been presented to my mind, 
 and then died away and left me ; that is, to visit the prisons of 
 this city. This prospect seemed so fixed and sealed on my mind, 
 that I stopped some Friends after meeting, and laid it before them 
 for their concurrence and help in the arduous work. 
 
 "267/*, Fourth-day. — Empty and poor this morning, but I 
 desire to be so that 1 may be qualified to render up my will and 
 affections unto my God, that he may be pleased to guide my feet 
 
332 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. [1798. 
 
 aright. I desire ability to say, day by day, ' Thy will be done.' 
 Attended Gracechurch Street meeting and laboured in testimony. 
 
 " '28th. — Spent this evening more lightsome and comfortable 
 than has often been my experience : feeling resigned to whatever 
 kind Providence may be pleased to permit ; yea, the cup he gives 
 I am willing to drink. Lord, bless it, sanctify it, and preserve thy 
 servant over and through all. 0 ! preserve me to the end of my 
 days, and grant that in passing through tribulation and distress 
 here, I may wash my garments in the blood of the Lamb. 
 
 " 2 ( ,)th, Seventh-day. — To a meeting appointed for the children 
 of criminals, at the Philanthropic Reform, there were about one 
 hundred and two. They were arranged in ranks before me, and 
 stood. It was an open time, and when I kneeled down in suppli- 
 cation they went down also. Several of the committee who have 
 the care of them, also the governor, and the masters who teach 
 the boys their trades, attended, and were kind and respectful. 
 After the opportunity we went to the girls' apartment, and had a 
 pretty good time with about fifty of them. Some were noticed to 
 weep, and I left them relieved in mind. Dined at Thomas Sturge's 
 with Joseph Smith and Wilson Birkbeck, who accompanied me in 
 this visit. 
 
 " SOth, First-day.— J. Smith, W. Birkbeck and T. S. accom- 
 panied me to the House of Correction. Had an opportunity with 
 about fourteen men in a dismal place — however, it was relieving 
 to my mind : the poor creatures behaved well, and I was dipped 
 into sympathy with them, and hope it will prove a time of some 
 profit and encouragement to individuals among them.* Some of 
 
 * While Thomas Scattcrgood staid nt the house of a Friend who assisted him in 
 these visits on the south-side of London, he related, that on an occasion of two men being 
 about to be executed at Philadelphia, he felt a strong inclination to be present, which 
 hardly seemed to be of the nature of a religious concern. He went to his friend William 
 Savery, who was at work at his currier's shop, and found him disposed to accompany him. 
 They watched the approach of the hurdle on which the criminals were placed, which 
 they closely followed for some time, and at length got upon it. They felt as if they were 
 dreadfully hardened, never having been sensible of the like before ; but they afterwards 
 believed that this feeling arose from a deep sense given them of the state of the minds of 
 the criminals. When they arrived at the platform they ascended the ladder after the 
 poor men, and directly after their execution, William Savery felt a very powerful impres- 
 sion to address the multitude assembled. The state of his mind immediately changed 
 into one of deep compassion, so much so that it was with difficulty he could forbear 
 weeping. It was observed that many among the crowd wept. As soon as he had done 
 T. Scattcrgood followed, and very impressively and powerfully pointed nut to the people 
 the evil of giving way to the first temptation to do anything wrong, closing the whole 
 with supplication. 
 
 The time thus occupied was about an hour, and the crowd quietly dispersed. 
 
 They were concerned afterwards that they could not have consulted Friends. T. S. 
 observed that they were both young men and there was not time, but he believed 
 Friends were well satisfied. 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOU. 
 
 333 
 
 them on parting sent their blessing after me. Went into the 
 women's room and had a satisfactory time with about eight or ten 
 of them ; some of whom appeared tender : from thence we stepped 
 into a school for girls, where there were about fifty, and I had a 
 satisfactory opportunity among them. After dinner endeavoured 
 to obtain a meeting at the Asylum for poor orphan children, but 
 failed, and though I felt a great weight and exercise on my spirit 
 on returning home, and as I frequently have done in walking 
 London streets, yet after reading with the family, I feel pretty 
 comfortable and easy, for which favour I am thankful. 
 
 "31stf, Second-day; and the last day in the year. I had a 
 comfortable night, and I awoke and arose so. But 0 ! what a 
 baptism I passed through afterwards ! how is it possible to describe 
 it, except in David's words in the seventy-seventh Psalm, on which 
 I opened in my distress upon taking up the blessed book to read. 
 0 Lord ! my soul is bowed down because of oppression. Remember 
 me and search me — let nothing remain unjudged, that I may 
 stand before thee with acceptance, and be accounted worthy to 
 promote thy cause and truth in the earth. Help me through my 
 difficulties ; wean me from all letting and hindering things. For 
 thy mercy's sake, grant that I may leave that labour and toil that 
 has made me to walk uncomfortably in the way, and lift up my 
 heart to thee in faith and confidence, and give up in all things to do 
 thy blessed will, that so I may yet be found doing thy work in my 
 day and generation. Send forth the covering of thy righteousness. 
 Strip me of all my filthy garments, and clothe thy servant with a 
 change of raiment. Thou knowest the unutterable pangs of dis- 
 tress I have passed through for many months past, and I humbly 
 hope my soul lies prostrate in dust and ashes before thee. Restore 
 unto me peace and comfort. 
 
 " 1799, First Month 3rd, Fifth-day. — I have had occasion to 
 praise the Lord for ease of spirit this morning ; that is, if we are 
 to rejoice in ease and quietness of mind more than in dispensations 
 more trying. The cloud separates, and a little light spreads. I 
 desire to receive it with fear and trembling, for baptism, deep bap- 
 tism is profitable. Went to the new jail for the county of Surrey, 
 where I had an open time with about two hundred prisoners, much 
 to the relief of my mind. Went afterwards to the Clink prison, 
 where we found only two prisoners — a little arose on my mind 
 for 1116111.''' 
 
 In relation to this visit he remarks in a letter of this date. 
 
334 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 " This day accompanied by ray kind friends, I visited the 
 prisoners in the new jail : a most extraordinary building indeed. 
 I suppose we had all sorts, and truly I may say, such was the love 
 and desire I felt for them when amongst them, and the enlarge- 
 ment of heart, that I forgot my own troubles, and how long I had 
 been as it were in the pit. Tenderness was apparent in some, and 
 a secret hope prevailed in my mind, that the opportunity would be, 
 at least to some, like bread cast on the waters, found after many 
 
 days. 1 ' He adds, " I expect and look for deep labour and 
 
 travail before the door will open peacefully to leave this cit} r ; 
 how far I may be engaged in this arduous work, or what will next 
 open, I feel disposed to leave to Him, who marvellously leads the 
 blind by a way that they know not, and in paths they have not 
 seen." 
 
 "4/7*. — Attended the Meeting for Sufferings. I am informed 
 that the committee meet with much difficulty to obtain leave for 
 me to go into the prisons — and no more business can be laid out 
 this week. 
 
 " 6th, First-day. — To Gracechurch Street meeting, low in mind, 
 but had to labour once more in a close line. Appointed a public 
 meeting to be held at six o'clock in the evening. Attended after- 
 noon meeting at two o'clock, and a little arose on my mind to im- 
 part to the youth. In the appointed meeting, which was large, I 
 was altogether shut up. Charity Cook preached early, and after 
 a considerable time of silence, dear George Dillwyn took the 
 service of the meeting entirely off my mind, and I felt content 
 and easy. 
 
 " 10th. — I opened the Bible on Job, sixth chapter, which is 
 descriptive of my often tried state. C. C, M. S. and A. C. paid 
 me an acceptable visit, in which my mind was comforted, and its 
 burden a little removed. Is then faith, even when no more than 
 a Tain of mustard seed, able to remove a mountain I Yes, and it 
 seems as though it was possible to live under the weight of a moun- 
 tain, when this little grain is hid out of sight ; yet, if it is hid in 
 the heart, it is enough. 
 
 " Ylih. — A quiet day — a sweet calm spread over my mind whilst 
 sitting by the fire-side of my kind friend Truman Harford. I 
 received a note from J. B., informing me that they will not let me 
 proceed further in visiting prisons. I received the account with 
 composure of mind, for which I feel thankful. 
 
 " 13///, First-day. — Went to Rat cliff meeting and had nn open 
 
1799.] MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 335 
 
 time in testimony. I was much abased on going to the afternoon 
 meeting, but a solemnity soon spread, and I bent in supplication 
 in a broken manner, with tears. I prayed fervently for strength 
 and ability to drink the remainder of the cup of suffering, even the 
 dregs of it, in this city, and subscribe to the Lord's will. M. 
 Ransom had a good time afterwards ; and before the meeting broke 
 up, I was enlarged, and much tenderness appeared. Spent the 
 evening in pleasant conversation, and lay down pretty easy and 
 comfortable. 1 ' 
 
 Dublin, First Month 2nd, 1799. 
 
 " Dear Thomas, 
 " My long silence has not been for want of near sympathy, nor 
 true brotherly love, as I know of no brother that I am more united to 
 in the bond of gospel fellowship. Thy last letter was the most satis- 
 factory that I ever received from thee; nor do I think it could have 
 been penned more suitable to my then situation. Thou mentioned 
 thy deep trials, in which thou felt as though thou wast plunged into 
 the horrible pit and sunk to the bottom of it. When I read this 
 part of thy letter I was filled with a mixture of sorrow and joy ; 
 sorrow on thy account, that thy sufferings were so great, and joy on 
 my own, to find I had the company of so dear a brother, travelling 
 in a way I thought almost untrodden by any. I may acknowledge 
 that my trials since in Ireland, have been like the loosening of new 
 seals of the book of religious experience. But hitherto I have been 
 helped and carried through every afflictive dispensation, and am at 
 present in better health of body than when I first landed in Europe, 
 and find much greater openness amongst people of every rank than 
 when I first entered Ireland. I have lately visited most of the towns 
 and places where the greatest destruction of lives and property 
 occurred, and found many seeking people, whose former rests appeared 
 to be much shaken, if not broken up; and with these I have had 
 many refreshing seasons. Public meetings are generally crowded 
 by the better sort of people, whose behaviour is very becoming the 
 occasion. I have also visited most of the families of Friends 
 where the greatest trials have appeared, as Carlow, Ballitore, 
 Rathangan, &c, and returned to this city a few days since. What 
 may open as the line of duty, I do not clearly see at present : but 
 as 1 did not visit all the families beforo I left this city, I may 
 likely do a little more in that way before) I go to the northern parts 
 of the nation. My detention in this land has been very trying to 
 me, as I seemed exposed to every kind of danger, not only by 
 
336 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERfiOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 robbers and murderers, confusions and tumults of various kinds, 
 but by unfeeling professors, who have greatly departed from the 
 faith of their worthy forefathers, and yet desire to be called the 
 children of Abraham : but I believe my trials of this sort are nearly 
 over, as many who have been hidden are now made manifest, and 
 the more undesigning and simple-hearted are favoured to see the 
 snare, and divers have escaped from the wreck, and I humbly hope 
 all may be gathered into the faith once delivered to the saints, and 
 the prey be taken from the jaws of the devourer : but this must 
 be the Lord's work, for none but him can do it. The general state 
 of society appears to me but low, yet there are many precious plants 
 in Ireland, and I think their number will increase, and is now in- 
 creasing. Many inquire after thee with much affection and love, 
 having heard of thy late trial in the loss of thy dear daughter, and. 
 I believe, do sympathize with thee in that and other afflictive dis- 
 pensations, yet have not the least doubt but all those things 
 we meet with, and which may seem little else to our taste than 
 the wormwood and gall, are but like the strong winds sent to bring 
 the leaky ship to a safe port. As I remember to have heard dear 
 George Dillwyn say when in America, to an afflicted Friend, 
 ' Our proper business at such times is to keep the head of the vessel 
 the right way, and ifwe did so, we should gainby such dispensations. 1 
 T have not heard much from America respecting the state of our 
 Friends, that I cannot tell who are removed or who are left, but 
 have heard of some valuable Friends being removed from works to 
 rewards. Having given thee a sketch of matters, I conclude in 
 that brotherly love that many waters cannot quench, and rest thy 
 affectionate friend and brother, 
 
 " David Sands." 
 
 " \9th. — Took post-chaise and rode to Canterbury to attend the 
 funeral of William Elgar. 
 
 " 20th, First-day. — To the burial-house, and accompanied the 
 corpse along the street to the meeting-house, which was much filled 
 up with the town's-people. Here I met dear Richard Raker, who 
 was pretty largely engaged in the meeting. Tears were my meat 
 in the fore part of it, and I was glad of the company and help of 
 such a fellow-labourer. Near the close I bent my knee in prayer, and 
 before the meeting broke up was most easy to appoint a meeting, 
 although in much weakness, to be held at six o'clock in the even- 
 ing. We followed the corpse a long way through the city, and a 
 pretty long one out of the gate thereof; and a crowd gathered 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 337 
 
 round the grave, beside Friends, of whom there was a reputable com- 
 pany. I laboured among them from these expressions : ' Fear God, 
 and give glory to his name, for tbe hour of his judgments is come,' 
 &c. It was a quiet time, to Friends 1 admiration, for in former 
 years there had been sad doings, even to the pulling of ministering 
 Friends down, &c. I dined at the burial-house, and at the table 
 I prayed that truth might not fall in the streets here ; and also 
 for the son of the deceased, in a particular manner. Afterwards a 
 large number of Friends came in, and I was favoured with much 
 enlargement of heart in speaking to them. To the evening meet- 
 ing, which was an open, solid time, and broke up so. Supped at 
 our lodgings, and after it had an opportunity with the gay children 
 of this widow, who have gone off from Society. After this day's 
 work feel easy in mind. 
 
 " 21*^, Second-day. — Went to W. Patterson's and visited his 
 wife, who is declining fast ; here came Richard Baker, and we were 
 favoured together, I hope, with the breaking of spiritual bread. 
 Went again to the house of the deceased, and had a solid oppor- 
 tunity with divers Friends. Set off about one o'clock in a chaise 
 for Dover, and met a very kind reception from the wife and children 
 of Richard Baker. 
 
 " 27th, First-day. — Set off soon after breakfast in a post-chaise 
 with R. H. and R. Baker, for, Folkstone, where a meeting had 
 been appointed, which was large and solid. It was comfortable 
 to visit a simple-hearted people, and it seemed as if they were 
 loath to break up the meeting and depart. Dined at W. M.'s, 
 and afterwards had a sweet, refreshing opportunity. Went back 
 to R. Baker's, time enough to attend the evening meeting, which 
 was much crowded, and closed in a solemn manner. I spent a 
 sweet refreshing evening after it, at R. Baker's, where we had a 
 religious opportunity, in which he appeared in testimony, and I 
 was engaged in supplication, with a thankful heart, and lay down 
 under this feeling. 
 
 In a letter addressed to his family, dated 28th of this month, 
 after informing them of the preceding meetings, he says : 
 
 " Yesterday's labour and the sweet reward annexed, have set 
 me up a little, and I fervently beg support, not only to the end of 
 this journey, but to tho end of my days, and that the Lord may 
 have the honour and praise of his own work, in and by all his 
 
 dedicated servants and messengers I hear likewise 
 
 of the decease of M. B., only son of M., — he has, by account, left 
 
338 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 great concerns behind. The last meeting I was at with him at 
 Guildford, about nine or ten months ago, was a memorable one to 
 me; indeed, I have oft remembered the impression then made on my 
 mind, and which I had to express concerning some then present. 
 The uncertainty of visible enjoyments is often uppermost with me 
 in this land, and, my dwelling has been much, if I may so express 
 it, as among the dead. ' Free among the dead, like the slain that 
 lie in the grave, whom thou rememberest no more, and they are 
 cut off from thy hand. Thou hast laid me in the lowest pit, in 
 darkness, in the deeps. Thou hast put away mine acquaintance 
 far from me ; thou hast made me an abomination unto them. I 
 am shut up, and I cannot come forth.' This was David's experience 
 in his state of affliction ; and I have often read him and Job in the 
 line of experience. But after all, this is the sum ; I think I cannot, 
 I must not, be without such trying dispensations. The Lord 
 knows best what is best, and his sovereign, blessed will be done." 
 
 " 30th. — Attended an appointed meeting held in the town-hall 
 at Deal. The people were slow in coming, and for a considerable 
 time there were but few. R. Baker stood in testimony for some 
 time, during which others came in. Seeing a crowd near the stairs, 
 and feeling love in my heart toward all, I stood up, and with con- 
 siderable pains got them to come forward, and make way for others, 
 until at length the house was pretty full ; and I was favoured with 
 an open time. In the afternoon rode to Margate, and met a kind 
 reception at the widow Newby's. 
 
 "31stf. — To an appointed meeting in a large assembly room. 
 R. Baker had the labour, and my share was in supplication, and 
 I felt most easy to appoint another at six o'clock in the evening. 
 It was small, occasioned by a great snow-storm, and I was much 
 shut up for nearly two hours ; but at length had a satisfactory 
 time with such as met. 
 
 " Second Month 1st. — J. C, a fisherman and preacher among 
 the Methodists came to see us, with whom we had some satisfactory 
 conversation : he is a loving, goodly man, and proposed my having 
 a meeting in their chapel this evening, which I declined. After 
 meeting last evening, another Methodist preacher came to me, 
 and, I suppose, was sensible that I had been disappointed in not 
 seeing so mairy people together as I desired, and wished me not 
 to be discouraged. 
 
 " 2nd, Seventh-day. — Feeling easy with respect to this place, I set 
 off in a post-chaise for Canterbury, and got to Dover about dusk. 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATT ERGOOD. 
 
 339 
 
 " 11th. — To Folkstone to the burial of J. Elgar at eleven 
 o'clock. The new unfinished meeting-house was fitted up with 
 seats, and much crowded. It proved an open time : several serious 
 soldiers were present. After dinner I had a remarkable religious 
 opportunity, in which the builder of the meeting-house was much 
 tendered and reached. Went to see the parents and children of 
 the deceased, and had a comfortable opportunity. Walked to the 
 sea-side and met with the mayor of the town, who came to me in 
 a kind manner, and expressed his satisfaction with the meeting, 
 and said he hoped it would be profitable, especially to the young 
 people, whose minds were uncultivated. He is a goodly man." 
 
 " Holdgate, Second Month 7th, 1799. 
 " Beloved Friend T. S., 
 
 " I trust our love and friendship is founded on a basis that ad- 
 mits of perfect freedom ; and in this persuasion I feel encouraged 
 to address thee at this season, though not without the recollection 
 of having already demonstrated my continued remembrance of 
 thee, since favoured with a letter from thee. But as the pure 
 cementing union of gospel fellowship, far exceeds all ceremonies, 1 
 shall not attempt much apology for the present mark of freedom, 
 but in simplicity and sincerity take this method of convincing 
 my endeared friend, that length of separation, either in distance 
 or time, has by no means erased him out of my memory, nor 
 caused any diminution of that love which first united our spirits. 
 I have, at seasons, felt near love and sympathy with thy exercised 
 mind, so that notwithstanding many have been my own conflicts 
 and probations, yet I have thought, if it were possible, I could 
 joyfully take part of thy burthen on my own shoulder, that thy 
 mind might in some degree be relieved. I esteem it an unspeak- 
 able favour, to feel such a degree of spiritual union, as to enable in 
 some measure, to dip into fellow-feeling with tribulated spirits. I 
 know nothing that qualifies Christian travellers to sympathize with 
 the tossed and afflicted, more than a large degree of suffering 
 themselves ; because what we have tasted, what our hands have 
 handled, we can speak of experimentally. These, and similar 
 considerations, have at times encouraged me to labour after a state 
 of contentment and endeavour to bear all things patiently, trying 
 to believe in that blessed assertion ; ' All things shall work together 
 for good, to those that love and fear God.' The last account 
 of thee furnished me with tidings of thy engagement in visiting 
 
340 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 the prisons in the city of London ; an arduous work for a feeling 
 mind, who is coveting, above all things, the health and salvation 
 of the souls of mankind ; and, consequently, must be dipped into 
 a state of deep suffering in feeling the great departure from purity 
 and holiness, and the degeneracy of the human race. 0 ! what 
 cause is still administered by the deep revolting, backsliding pro- 
 fessors, for the Lord's exercised servants and ministers, to put 
 on the garment of sackcloth, weeping as between the porch and 
 the altar, interceding with Omnipotence, for the continuation of 
 his merciful regard towards the workmanship of his holy Hand ! 
 My soul is often bowed in humble contrition, when I feel the de- 
 plorable state of those who are saying, in the expressive language 
 of conduct, ' Wo will not have this man to rule over us remem- 
 bering that the Lord has pleaded in mercy, not only immediately 
 by the revelation of his own pure Spirit, but has caused the alarm- 
 ing trumpet to be sounded in Zion by his instruments ; and his 
 judgments for transgressions declared on his holy mountain. 
 May not the language be adopted, ' What more could the Lord 
 have done for his vineyard;' Surely he hath dealt bountifully 
 with his creature man ; but 0 ! how obvious are the returns of 
 ingratitude, instead of the dedication of the whole heart to serve 
 the King of kings with perfect obedience. Are there not those 
 in the present day who can say with the mournful prophet, ' For 
 these things I weep, mine eye runneth down with water.' Though 
 we are made abundantly sensible, that true religion is a heart-felt, 
 individual work ; and that however solicitous we may feel for the 
 spiritual welfare one of another, it is not possible for any man to 
 ' redeem his brother, or give to God a ransom for his soul yet, 
 how does the universal love of our heavenly Father, so abound 
 in the hearts of his disciples, that they are made willing to spend 
 and be spent, in calling to repentance and amendment of life. And 
 if, through the efficacy if the Lord's mighty power, such are 
 made instruments in his holy Hand, to turn one soul unto 
 righteousness and holiness of life, it will amply compensate for the 
 labour, deep exercises and fiery baptisms, which, I believe, accom- 
 pany all those who are rightly qualified to advocate a cause 
 dignified with immortality and crowned with eternal life. Well 
 then, dear friend, may thou and I put on strength in the name of 
 the Lord, and do whatsoever our hands find to do with all our 
 might ; remembering that after having done the will of God, we 
 have need of patience to receive the promise. 1 seem to feel so 
 much of that love to flow in my heart towards my beloved fellow- 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 341 
 
 pilgrim, which leads to perfect freedom, that I am almost ready to 
 forget I am writing to a father in Israel. Doubtless thou hast 
 heard, ere this period, that my feeble frame has once more been 
 reduced to a state of great weakness, insomuch that my recovery 
 appeared for a time very doubtful. During the time of this afflic- 
 tion, my mind was mostly preserved in a state of calmness, though 
 I felt no great redundancy of heavenly good, nor sensible feeling 
 of the presence of Him whom my soul loveth ; but was enabled, 
 through holy Help, to lift up my head, at seasons, in hope, 
 remembering that I was in the hands of a gracious Creator ; and 
 that it became me, as a dependent servant, patiently to suffer his 
 will, whether in life or death. After my disorder took a favourable 
 turn, and my strength a little increased, the situation of ray mind 
 became very trying, so as not to be fully expressed in words, or 
 comprehended by the natural understanding ; but such a deeply 
 exercised mind as my endeared friend's may be capable of fathom- 
 ing in degree, what I have had to pass through, and in measure, am 
 now wading under; when I tell him, hope of salvation for mine 
 own soul hath hung upon so slender a thread, that I have been 
 near letting go my confidence ; uttering this language in the secret 
 of my heart, ' Surely my Grod hath forsaken me, he hath hid his 
 face from me.' 0 ! the anguish of my stripped mind, when not 
 able to put up a single petition for the help of Omnipotence, nor 
 feel his protecting Arm underneath for my support ; instead of 
 this holy confidence, I was tempted to call in question all former 
 experiences of the Lord's gracious dealings with me, apprehending 
 I never was commissioned, nor rightly prepared and qualified to 
 preach the everlasting gospel. The enemy of my soul's salvation, 
 uses every stratagem to cast down below measure, and thereby keep 
 from serving the Lord with a cheerful heart, and willing mind. 
 I believe thou canst read me in the line of deep experience ; the 
 consideration of which gives liberty for free communication : for 
 these are mysteries not understood to the full, only by such as 
 have trod in similar footsteps." 
 
 " 11th.— Attended the Monthly Meeting held at the New House, 
 where several goodly people, beside Friends came, and also two 
 serious soldiers, It was a sweet time, and these men were very 
 tender. I had also an open opportunity in the men's meeting. 
 After dinner the two soldiers came to us, and wc had a precious 
 season with them on parting. 0 ! what tenderness they evinced, 
 and what sweetness and love was to be felt. The Lord be praised 
 
342 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 for this manifestation of merciful regard. Returned to Dover with 
 R. B. and S. Talbot, and was at a meeting appointed by S. 
 Talbot. A few seeking people came in, and much solemnity pre- 
 vailed ; and now after so many meetings of exertion my bodily 
 powers are broken down, and my voice much gone, yet the peace 
 I feel is more than a reward for all. Blessed be the name of the 
 Lord therefor." 
 
 The following extracts from a letter addressed to Rebecca Jones, 
 though chiefly a repetition of his engagements, may not be unin- 
 teresting, viz : 
 
 " Dover, Second Month 13$, 1799. 
 
 " My dear Friend, 
 
 " Although it is some time since thou hast heard from me in 
 this way, thou mayst rest assured I have not forgotten thee : no, 
 my beloved, sympathizing sister, thou hast been as a seal on my 
 heart in labours and travels, watchings and tears in this land, and 
 I now feel a little strength and willingness once more to tell 
 thee so. 
 
 " I once entrusted thee with some of my painful experience not 
 long before we parted, by showing some of my daily notes ; and may 
 yet inform [thee,] that the same tribulated path has been assigned 
 to thy poor brother in this land. Deep have been the wadings of 
 my soul for months past, and at seasons I have thought my faith 
 and hope have been tried almost to the uttermost; but surely under- 
 neath must have been the Everlasting Arm, or else I should have 
 fainted hy the way. I think I have been made sensible of your 
 afflictions at large in Philadelphia, as well as that portion, which, 
 no doubt in all-wise disposal, has fallen to the lot of my dear 
 family ; and I have been favoured with so much resignation of 
 mind as to be able to say, ' The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh 
 away, blessed be the name of the Lord; 1 — and here I am disposed 
 to leave it, for it has sometimes been almost too much for my 
 thoughts to dwell upon. ' The works of the Lord, they are won- 
 derful, and his works among men are hidden.' 
 
 " Thou wilt very likely hear, not only by my letters to my 
 beloved Sarah, but others, that my mind has been turned to visit 
 the miserable among my fellow-creatures, shut up in prison-houses, 
 &c. : and I proceeded as far, in this arduous buisness, as way 
 could be procured for me by my kind friends. As far as I went 
 in the service, it was comfortable to my own mind, and I have no 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS f/CATTEHGOOD. 
 
 343 
 
 cause to doubt but that it was productive of some consolation, at 
 least to some of the visited. Here once more I was thrown out of 
 business, and in this state my friend Robert Howard, who, with 
 dear J. Gr. Bevan, had been kindly interested in trying to make 
 way, came to visit me. When I saw him coming in, the thought 
 arose, whether he had not found some more work in the gaols ; 
 but he soon informed me, that he was going to Canterbury to 
 attend the burial of William Elgar, the principal Friend in that 
 city, and was disposed to take me with him ; and having had 
 thoughts that there was some further labour assigned me, in that 
 county, and seeing a little light shine on this movement, I took 
 courage and set off with him, though under discouragement and 
 depression of mind. However, through the Lord's goodness, 
 light has continued, and here in this county of Kent, a new and 
 unforeseen field of service has opened, very different from that 
 which I was engaged in this time twelvemonths ago. I then saw 
 little further than visiting the meetings of Friends, and only had 
 one amongst others at Folkstone, which was satisfactory. Now 
 the way has opened in a different line. The corpse of this Friend 
 was taken to the little meeting-house, which was pretty much 
 filled up, and we had a long walk to the grave, through one of the 
 streets of the city. Numbers who were not Friends followed on 
 the opposite side of the street, and I rejoiced in having so large a 
 company at the grave. The people behaved solidly, which I have 
 been informed has often been far otherwise. Since that, I have 
 had several public meetings at Dover, one at Deal, and two at 
 Margate. 
 
 " Last First-day I attended the burial of our ancient friend 
 Sarah Beck. The house was filled up pretty much by the towns- 
 people, and I had a public meeting in the evening, — both favoured 
 seasons. 
 
 " On Second-day went to the burial of John Elgar, Folkstone, 
 (who died of a scrofulous complaint ;) and I trust his light afflic- 
 tions have not only worked for his good, but have been and will 
 be a blessing to the rest of the family. Friends are building a 
 new meeting-house, and the carpenters were willingly disposed to 
 fit it up for the accommodation of a meeting; and some of them, 
 I have heard, said, all they desired was to be able to get in and 
 occupy one of the seats they had made for the purpose. The 
 corpse was put into the ground first, and afterwards such an eager- 
 ness to get into the house I have not often seen ; and it was a 
 large, crowded and good meeting. The mayor of the town, whom 
 
MEMOIRS Of THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 I met with afterwards on the sea-shore, expressed his satisfaction, 
 and said lie hoped it would be profitable, especially to the young 
 people, for they were raw and uncultivated, &c. There were also 
 several goodly soldiers at meeting. Yesterday was their Monthly 
 Meeting at Folkstone — some few of the neighbours attended, and 
 two soldiers; the latter came to the Friend's house where we dined, 
 and a memorable opportunity we had with them on parting. 0 ! 
 the sweetness, meekness, and love that was to be felt in their minds, 
 though to outward appearance mighty men. Great have been the 
 sympathy and love I have felt for this class of people, and I 
 should not wonder if they are numbered amongst the first fruits 
 of a precious visitation approaching toward this favoured island. 
 The Lord in his infinite love hasten it. 
 
 " I am now at my dear friend Richard Baker's, who with his 
 wife are like a father and mother, and their dear girls as sisters or 
 daughters to me. — Here I stopped, and turning to R. B.'s two 
 daughters, told them I was writing to Rebecca Jones. The girls 
 answered, ' Do give our dear love, and mother, if here would send 
 her's also. Richard says, ' I have just been thinking of her since 
 dinner, and I will give thee something to insert; 1 and here I copy 
 it from his memorandum handed me. ' Richard Baker desires his 
 very dear love to be remembered to Rebecca Jones, and who 
 frequently has revived in his remembrance profitably, and wishes 
 her to be informed, for her encouragement to attend to impressions 
 that may sometimes appear small ; that the single sentence she deli- 
 vered to him without any comment thereon, on meeting him in a 
 street, has been made more profitable to him than some whole 
 volumes he has read, which was this : " Blessed are they that 
 mourn, for they shall be comforted. 11 — Pray for me my dear friend, 
 that my head may be kept above water, and that I may answer 
 the Lord's requirings in this land, whether in further suffering, or 
 whatever labour may be pointed out ! 0 ! this is the breathing 
 desire of thy deeply conflicting friend, who loves thee, 1 
 
 " Thomas Scattergood." 
 
 " lith, Fifth-day. — To the week-day meeting at Dover ; to- 
 wards the close stood up in testimony, and endeavoured to 
 encourage those present. 1 appointed a meeting to be held at six 
 o'clock, which was crowded, and a quiet, solemn time. 
 
 "lotf/i. — 'Are ye able to drink the cup that I drink of, and to be 
 baptized with the baptism wherewith I am baptized ? ' They 
 hardly knew whereof they spoke, when they said, ' We are able.' 
 
1 799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD . 
 
 ^45 
 
 0 ! the feelings of this hour with my wading soul ! Lord God 
 Almighty, thou, and thou alone canst enable me to drink the cup 
 with becoming submission and resignation. Send forth help from 
 thy holy sanctuary, and strengthen me out of Zion. Open the 
 way and go before thy servant, and favour me to accomplish the 
 day's work with the day. How unsearchable is thy wisdom : and 
 thy judgments and ways are past finding out. 
 
 " \6th. — Paid a sweet visit to the boarding school kept by E. 
 Kelly ; and both mistress and children were much tendered. 
 
 After dinner took R. Baker with me and paid a visit to 
 
 King, a play actor, who received me kindly. E. Kelly's husband 
 told me he lay in the barracks near my house in the year ] 772/' 
 
 On the 17th, he attended a funeral at Canterbury ; and on the 
 18th went to Rochester and consulted Friends about a meeting 
 at Sheerness. 
 
 " 19th. — It seems almost as if the two meetings in view were as 
 the last handful of meal in the barrel, and all the little oil left in 
 
 the cruise Called in and sat with a Friend whom 
 
 we found very poorly, and had a baptizing opportunity in her 
 chamber, and then accompanied by Dr. C. and R. Baker, went to 
 Sheerness. We were kindly noticed by several inhabitants, 
 and the meeting was held in a large and commodious Methodist 
 meeting-house and proved a favoured time ; the people were 
 open and kind after it — some stopped mc and expressed their 
 satisfaction. I do not learn that there ever was a meeting held 
 there by a Friend before. 
 
 11 20th.— Got to Rochester to dinner, and requested Friends to 
 collect the people of the place at half-past six o'clock in the even- 
 ing ; which proved a laborious time, but towards the close more 
 comfort and enlargement were experienced. 
 
 " 21s/. — The week-day meeting was a comfortable time, and 
 soon after dinner set off for London. 
 
346 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEEGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 CHAPTER XVI. 
 
 1799. RELIGIOUS ENGAGEMENTS IN ESSEX, SUFFOLK, AND SEVERAL OF 
 
 THE NORTHERN COUNTIES VISITS SCOTLAND LETTER FROM MARY 
 
 DUDLEY FURTHER RELIGIOUS SERVICE IN SCOTLAND AND THE ORK- 
 NEY ISLANDS RETURNS TO DURHAM. 
 
 " Second Month 22nd. — Went to Tottenham meeting in a very 
 low state, where was a marriage, and I went and dined with the 
 company. After tea the guests were collected into one room, and 
 we had a solemn time, in which I found some relief hy pouring 
 out my soul in supplication ; and afterwards had a remarkably 
 tendering season whilst addressing the children. It is marvellous 
 to me that it should be so, and that the water of weakness 
 and great discouragement should for a moment be turned into 
 the wine of refreshment. 
 
 " 23rd. — How blind and stripped I am, and I trust disposed to 
 say, ' Thy will, 0 Lord! and not mine be done. 1 0 ! the mystery 
 of this work, in being thus abased from day to day. 
 
 " Third Month 1 5th, Fifth-day. — Feel a secret hope reviving, 
 that it is right to go to Suffolk Quarterly Meeting. After meet- 
 ing went home with W. Dillwyn, and having received a note from 
 dear J. Bevans, desiring I would come to London this afternoon, 
 S. D. and children went with me. After conferring with him 
 respecting accompanying me, if I must go further north, we went 
 into the room to S. Talbot and companion, G. Stacey, and others, 
 &c, and had a sitting, in which Sarah Shackleton spoke concern- 
 ing the enemy tempting our Lord to command that the stones 
 might be made bread to satisfy his hunger; after which I kneeled 
 down and prayed, and felt some relief. A prospect was renewed 
 on my mind to have a public meeting at Chelmsford, of which I 
 desired G. Stacey to write to a Friend there. 
 
 " 15th. — Set off accompanied by my kind friends William 
 Forster and M. Philips, and arrived at Chelmsford about five 
 o'clock ; not without a weight of sorrow and exercise, especially 
 on entering the place once more ; however, I endeavoured to bear 
 up and anoint and wash. Went to the meeting at six o'clock, in 
 
1799.] MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 347 
 
 a very low state, in which J had to stand up and labour. Many 
 soldiers came in : I hope it was a time of some profit. 
 
 " 16th. — After two family opportunities, set off for Kelvedon. 
 
 " 17th, First-day. — To meeting at Kelvedon, which was small 
 and most of the time I felt poor. Tears of exercise were my 
 food — towards the close, I felt a little opening to labour. I told 
 them amongst other things, that dear Stephen Crisp had come 
 freshly into remembrance, and that as a part of his prospect 
 respecting this land had already been fulfilled, I believed more 
 would be. I was most easy to appoint a meeting for the inhabi- 
 tants, to be held at six o'clock, though in great weakness, and so I 
 attended it. For nearly an hour after sitting down in this very 
 crowded gathering, I thought myself never more stripped, but at 
 length in great weakness I stood up, and it broke up solidly, and 
 the people behaved well. 
 
 " 18th. — I move under great strippedness and poverty, with a 
 great burden of exercise still to carry. Nothing short of the 
 omnipotent Arm will bring me safely through and over all, to the 
 end of my days. Remember thy tried servant, O Lord ! in mercy, 
 this day, and let thy will be done in and by me. Concluded to 
 stay Monthly Meeting in this place. It was solid, and the busi- 
 ness was conducted with sweetness and harmony, and I ventured 
 to bend in supplication. Soon after dinner I set off to Dykes 
 Alexander's, [Ipswich]. Here I met with a number of dear friends, 
 and a kind reception from the family. Went to select meeting and 
 then to see Sarah Harrison, and had I hope a baptising time in her 
 sick room, with which she appeared strengthened and comforted. 
 
 " 1 9th. — To Quarterly Meeting ; W. C. appeared early in 
 supplication, and afterwards I stood up in testimony ; after dinner 
 had a memorable opportunity with a few friends. 
 
 " 20th. — Had a time of weeping and conflict on my bed this 
 morning, but was favoured to resign myself to Divine disposal, and 
 feel a willingness to go forth as Abraham did, not knowing whither, 
 endeavouring to leave that to the Lord, to lead and guide me in 
 the midst of the path of judgment. I trust the upright language 
 of my soul is ; 'If thou goest not with me in this journey, take 
 me not hence ;' and on the contrary, if thou wilt condescend to 
 the low estate of thy servant , and vouchsafe thy good presence, be 
 it unto me according to thy word. 
 
 " 21st. — To Needham week-day meeting, where I found S. 
 Harrison, and was concerned to pray for the preservation of myself 
 and fellow-servants — dined at William Alexander's. Went to 
 Bury, eighteen miles. 
 
348 
 
 MEMOIHS 01? THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 " 22nd. — In the evening as we entered Godmanchester, my 
 mare being tied behind our chaise, took fright and turned us over, 
 and we had a narrow escape with our lives. 1 was deeply sensible 
 of it in the time of extremity, when the breathing cry arose, 
 ' Lord save us and was favoured to get but little hurt : when I 
 got in to Samuel Bleckly's I found my dear friend and companion, 
 John Bevans, and also met a kind reception from Friends. 
 
 " 26th.— Went to Leeds, and on the 27th attended York 
 Quarterly Meeting, which was a comfortable time. 
 
 " 28th. — Was at two sittings of the Quarterly Meeting, a 
 meeting for worship, and also a meeting for ministers and elders ; 
 which ended satisfactorily, and I trust I have been in my place. 
 
 " 29th. — After a favoured opportunity with a number of Friends 
 set off for York, and got to Lindley Murray's to a late dinner ; 
 Here I found Ann Crowley ; had a comfortable, religious time, 
 and afterwards visited the Retreat and boarding school ; returned 
 to L. Murray's and lodged. 
 
 " 30th. — Got to Edward Pease's at Darlington about dusk, and 
 met a kind reception. 
 
 "31$, First-day. — Went to meeting and was exercised with 
 the unsettlement of many. I laboured honestly among them, and 
 had also a word of consolation for the burden-bearers and mourners. 
 Appointed a meeting to be held at six o'clock, which was very 
 large, open and satisfactory. 
 
 '■'■Fourth Month \st. — Went to Sunderland, to our friend 
 Solomon Chaphman's ; and at six o'clock went to the meeting for 
 ministers and elders. In the fore part of it I was concerned in 
 prayer, and afterwards was drawn forth in close testimony. 
 
 " 2nd. — Attended the Quarterly Meeting, in which I had much 
 labour in an encouraging line to the youth. The first of this 
 month we drove through snow-drifts up to the hub of the wheels 
 of the post-chaise. 
 
 " Mh. — Felt openness in supplication at the week-day meetings 
 and after it a pointing towards a public meeting, which was held 
 at six o'clock. It was large and solid. 
 
 " 6th. — Got to our friends H. and M. Bragg's before night, at 
 Newcastle. 
 
 " 7th, First-day. — To meeting, and sat in a very stripped con- 
 dition, but after a time stood up, and had to bear a singular 
 testimony. Some gay Friends, beside many strangers were present, 
 and I felt openness toward them. Was not easy without appoint- 
 ing a meeting to be held in the evening at six o'clock. I went to 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 349 
 
 it in great feebleness, and stood up and laboured for some time, 
 and to my admiration it was a season of Divine favour toward tbe 
 close, and great solemnity fprevailed after I sat down, and it 
 concluded so. 
 
 " 8th. — 0 my soul ! sanctify the name of the Lord, and let 
 him be thy fear and dread ; and also seek him for thy comfort 
 and consolation. How shall I go into Scotland amongst a wise 
 people in this poor state, has often been the language of my mind. 
 Lord if thou goest with me it will be enough — then out of weak- 
 ness thy strength will be made known. 
 
 " Rode to Shields Monthly Meeting, eight miles, with M. Bragg 
 and my companion ; and had a time of enlargement in speaking. 
 After dinner had a solid religious opportunity. 
 
 " 9th. — Took a walk after breakfast along the sea-coast to Tyne- 
 mouth castle. Here are the remains of an old abbey ; some of the 
 lofty walls are still standing, and at the end next the sea is a small 
 room very much decorated with carved work. It seemed as 
 though the images of the apostles were cut out of stone in the 
 ceiling. 
 
 " At seven in the evening attended a meeting held in the 
 Methodist house, which was a remarkably solid time, and ended 
 so. It is marvellous to me, and cause of deep thankfulness and 
 encouragement also, that after feeling so poor this day, and going 
 to meeting so, fresh strength should be vouchsafed. The Lord be 
 praised for his goodness. 
 
 " 10th. — To the week-day meeting, which was small, and I felt 
 some encouragement respecting myself. Bent in supplication, and 
 afterwards endeavoured to encourage a few youthful minds, and to 
 warn others, lest by slighting the day of visitation their crowns 
 should be taken away and be put on tbe heads of others. In the 
 afternoon came to Newcastle. To a large meeting at seven o'clock, 
 in a new Methodist meeting-house ; having had an open, kind 
 invitation to hold it there from three men of that body. It was 
 solid and quiet, and separated so. 
 
 " [\th. — At the week-day meeting I sat nearly or quite two 
 hours in silence, a part thereof with tears, in viewing my own 
 state ; and yet toward the close a little encouragement was handed 
 forth to this small company. 
 
 " 12th. — There appears no opening to move from this place. 
 
 " 13//*, Seventh-day. — In the evening Joseph Clark, who is 
 a preacher among the Methodists, and in whose house we had a 
 meeting, came in with one of his friends ; they staid and supped, 
 
350 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCAT TERG00D. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 aud afterwards we dropped into silence, and I was engaged in 
 prayer ; they appeared to be solid men. 
 
 " 14//t, First-day. — Received an affectionate letter from Joseph 
 Clark, enclosing one for Richard Anuett, who lives about thirty 
 miles on the way to Scotland. Went to meeting ; many strangers 
 came in, and it proved a tendering time. The meeting at six o'clock 
 was a full one, and much labour fell upon me, and it ended in a 
 solid, comfortable manner. 
 
 "15^. — A solid parting time with this family and servants. 
 Rode thirty-four miles to Alnwick : on the way a desire was felt 
 that mercy and forbearing kindness may accompany, and enable 
 me to offer up body and soul into the care of him, who hath helped 
 and supported hitherto in great straits and trials. 
 
 " 16th. — Breakfasted with R. Annett and wife, and had a solid 
 religious opportunity. Dined at Belford, sixteen miles, and got 
 into Berwick before night. 
 
 " \ 7th. — Got into Haddington, where we lodged. Soon after 
 we put up, a man came, who sent the waiter to call me out, and 
 said he wanted some conversation with the Quaker gentleman, and 
 if agreeable would iro and brimr a brother with him. Some time 
 after he returned with a young man, and they proposed several 
 questions to us, which we endeavoured to answer, and were sur- 
 prised to find them such conscientious men, from whose outward 
 appearance little or nothing of the kind could be expected. 
 
 " l&th. — Arose early and got to our friend George Miller's at 
 Edinburgh, to breakfast. Went to meeting at ten o'clock, and 
 sat in silenoe until near the close. Took a walk through the town, 
 where we were much stared at. I fear there is too much want of 
 humility in this city, the metropolis of Scotland. I felt like a 
 blank this morning in the meeting ; and yet apprehended I saw, 
 aud told them so, that there is a precious seed sown in this place 
 that will not be rooted out. 
 
 " 21st, First-day. — A number of strangers came into the meet- 
 ing this morning. Dear Elizabeth Wigham uttered a few lively 
 expressions, and said, perhaps it was necessary for some to ex- 
 perience a further baptism and refinement to fit for further service. 
 I was engaged in prayer the latter part of the meeting, and 
 interceded for myself and those left behind — for the little remnant 
 planted as a seed in this highly professing city, and for the 
 inhabitants thereof. To meeting again at half-past two o'clock, 
 where dear John Wigham had an instructive time, but all closed 
 up with me. 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOO. 
 
 S51 
 
 " 25th. — Attended their Monthly Meeting, where only about 
 twelve Friends were present ; the business was conducted with a 
 good decree of weight. 
 
 " 27tk, Seventh-day. — Attended the select half year's meeting, 
 at which were six members. 
 
 " 28th, First-day.— I thought it was a low time at meeting this 
 morning, but I expressed a few sentences, tending to stir up Friends 
 against thev came again. In the afternoon meeting I was exer- 
 cised in supplication, and afterwards appointed a meeting at six 
 o'clock, which was pretty full and crowded — though there were 
 lightness and talking in the beginning, yet afterwards it was quiet, 
 and I had a comfortable relieving time, and we parted in a solid 
 manner to my joy. 
 
 " 29th. — Trust in the Lord, 0 my soul ! and forget not his 
 benefits bestowed in past seasons. Trust in the Lord and wait on 
 him, to enable thee to do good in thy station. A number of 
 strangers came to the meeting, mostly of the poorer sort, to whom 
 I felt much love and enlargement. Friends concluded to adjourn 
 to meet at three o'clock, when the business was conducted com- 
 fortably. Dear J. Wigham expressed his unity with our visit in 
 a very feeling manner, especially with the silent part of meetings 
 in this place ; and when my certificates were read, my heart was 
 humbled on remembering the date of them and how long I have 
 been in this land. Had an opportunity with the son of A. L. and 
 others in the evening— another with several convinced people not 
 yet joined in membership ; and on the whole it has been a day of 
 lifting up my head a little in hope. 
 
 " 80th. — The Half- Year's Meeting having concluded, I am 
 waiting to see what further is required. O Lord ! remember me 
 according to thy good hand upon me." 
 
 While here he received a letter from his beloved friend Mary 
 Dudley, from which the following is taken, viz : 
 
 Bristol, Fourth Month 25th, 1799. 
 
 " My very dear Frienu, 
 " Though thy last truly valued communications have long laid 
 unacknowledged, they have been to me not only as a precious me- 
 morial of thy regard and confidence, as it respects a friendship 
 which I covet to be so preserved as not to forfeit, but truly may I 
 say, that, if ever enabled to enter into that sympathy, where 
 ' deep uttereth unto deep, because of the noise of water spouts,' 
 
352 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 my soul therein could, proportionally to its capacity, comprehend 
 thy unutterable exercise. But never, in the midst of all, when 
 beholding thee enclosed as in the prison-house, have I been divested 
 of sustaining and consoling hope, that He, who only can availingly 
 preach deliverance, would bring thee forth to His own praise, and 
 the increasing help of His church and people : for surely such as 
 are resigned to go down to the sea, and occupy their business in 
 great waters, will see the goodness of the Lord, and his wonders 
 in the deep ; and then, in renewed deliverance, are qualified to tell 
 of his love to the inhabitants of His earth. 1 was prepared to hear 
 of thy enlargement ; and though the Spirit continued to testify, 
 that ' bonds and afflictions still await,' let a poor little sister, in 
 a measure of these, say to thee, my beloved brother, lift up thy 
 head in hope, yea, thank God and take courage, knowing assuredly, 
 there is none like the God of J eshurun, who yet maketh, and will 
 make the clouds of deep heart-humbling baptism his chariot, and 
 rideth upon the wings of the wind ; and this, that His angels may 
 be spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire. I wish this to meet 
 thee in Edinburgh, therefore forbear entering into some subjects, 
 whereon I could freely converse with thee, through this, or a more 
 desirable medium, that of personal intercourse, which I once had a 
 hope I might be again indulged with, perhaps if able to get to the 
 approaching Yearly Meeting : but my very debilitated frame is 
 not likely to be equal to such an exertion, nor do I yet know, that 
 it would be in the line of duty. As thy feet are once more loosened 
 from the stocks, I hardly expect thy return to it, when such a field 
 as that where thou now art, is open to thy view. As I have a 
 particular desire to know whether a procedure therein is likely to 
 be thy lot, or the annual solemnity more weightily attractive ; I 
 should be gratified, if by thy own acceptable pen (if at liberty to 
 use it,) thou wouldest inform me what thy prospect is, and however 
 or wherever it unfolds, mayst thou, my dear friend, resignedly, say, 
 ' Thy will be done. 1 This is a language, which, though my mind at 
 seasons longs to feci its own, I may acknowledge to thee is a state 
 not attained to : and so great is my weakness, that even respecting 
 the discoveries of light, without the present requisition to follow 
 it, I sometimes fear a turning away or a disposition opposed thereto. 
 Thus am I often halting, yet here I have been, and am still in 
 bonds, and in the midst of bodily and mental weakness, sometimes 
 seeking their being loosened by feeble endeavours to do the little 
 pointed out. My friends at home have left me at full liberty for 
 extensive movements, but I apprehend they will be much circum- 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 scribed ; perhaps only a little further into the adjacent counties, 
 then if strength should be vouchsafed, I have looked westward, I 
 mean to the western counties, such as Devon, &c. ; but should my 
 health continue as feeble as it now is, rather expect a release, and 
 liberty to return home, and perhaps obtain ere long a final dismis- 
 sion from further exercise : what an abundant mercy, if it prove 
 a peaceful retreat. 
 
 " I think I heard dear John Eevans was thy present helper, to 
 whom I wish to be cordially remembered ; we have known each 
 other long and have each much to commemorate of abundant 
 mercy, which having found us in the wilderness, in the land of 
 great drought, hath yet preserved ; and thereby hope is revived, 
 that the morning light will be the evening song. And now my 
 beloved brother, farewell ; which I have no doubt thou wilt, in 
 heights and depths, in life and death, yea, that nothing shall 
 separate from the continuance of Divine love and life. I am thy 
 poor little sister, but sympathizing friend, in gospel and affectionate 
 love, « Mary Dudley.'' 1 
 
 " Fifth Month 2nd, Fifth-day.— Went to the week-day meeting, 
 and in consequence of the Half-Year's Meeting having formerly 
 been held at this time, many people were present. Several young 
 women were laughing and talking together, with which my mind 
 was grieved, and after a time I stood up and reproved them, and 
 told them that my employment in such meetings often was in 
 sorrow and tears ; also mentioned the distress I had been witness 
 to, when the pestilence that walketh in darkness was going through 
 the city where I dwelt ; and how different it would be in this place, 
 if the Lord should see meet to visit them in the same way, then 
 they might have to mourn a father or mother, a brother or sister, 
 Sec, and say, Alas ! for me. After I sat down, dear John Wigham 
 had an acceptable time, and Friends afterwards remarked, that the 
 meeting at this time never broke up so solidly before. In the 
 evening I was brought very low, and retired to my chamber and 
 offered up my prayers and tears, with strong cries in secret. 
 
 " 3rd. — The accuser of the brethren is permitted to come up 
 against me, and I see no opening to return, and greatly fear going- 
 forward unsent. Thy sovereign will, 0 Lord! be done, only 
 be pleased to keep the head of thy servant above the waters. Felt 
 more contented and resigned this afternoon and evening. This is 
 a favour, even to sink down into nothingness, emptiness and 
 poverty, and bear it in a becoming manner. 
 
 2 A 
 
354 
 
 MEM0IS8 OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOO. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 " 4th. — I felt a little openness to give liberty to invite the neigh- 
 bours to meeting to-morrow. 
 
 " 5th, First-day. — Very stripped and poor indeed. I hope my 
 soul longs in all things to be resigned and content ; and were it not 
 for such prevalent thoughts so continually coming up against me, 
 (like this,) ' Thou art deluded, thou art deceived, or it would not 
 he so with thee,' I am ready to think I could sink down and bear 
 all things patiently. Indeed, it seems as if there was no other 
 way for me, than to bear this unutterable conflict with patience, and 
 willingness also. 0 Lord ! thou knowest all things, — thou knowcst 
 that my soul desires to love thee, and do and submit to thy will. 
 Went to meeting, and after a time felt an openness in my heart 
 toward the people, a number of whom came ; and although, there 
 appeared much lightness at first, we had a solid meeting, and it 
 concluded so. I ventured to invite them to come again at six 
 o'clock ; which was a full meeting, and to my humble admiration 
 I was favoured to hold forth the truths of the gospel. Tenderness 
 and solidity were prevalent ; the meeting closed well, and my soul 
 was measurably filled with thankfulness. My dear companion on 
 lying down, appeared much broken and tendered, under the sense 
 that Truth had eminently prevailed in this last meeting. 
 
 " 6th. — Comfortable and quiet in mind ; but yet under exercise. 
 Sat down with the family and several F riends, and felt my mind 
 drawn to supplicate the Almighty Helper to go with us, and to 
 bless this family ; my companion's and my own also were fervently 
 remembered. Took leave and rode to Quccnsferry, nine miles, 
 and two miles over, and may record with thankfulness that it has 
 been a sweet ride in the fulfilment of that saying ; ' For ye shall 
 go out with joy, and he led forth with peace.' Thanks for this 
 morning's portion — dined at the ferry-house, and put up for the 
 night at Kinross, fifteen miles. We have George Miller for our 
 guide and companion. 
 
 " 7th, Third-day. — Rode in the rain to Perth, to a meeting- 
 held at James Fitchie's, where there were about fourteen persons, 
 and a pretty open time. A young man who, I was afterwards 
 informed, had drawn back from his profession, told me after meet- 
 ing, that he had desires before we met to converse with me, but 
 his doubts and difficulties had been spoken to, and he was mea- 
 surably relieved. 
 
 " 8th. — A pleasant ride to Dundee, twenty-two miles, and had 
 a satisfactory meeting with the little company who meet in this 
 place. 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMO HIS Of THOMAS SCATTIilUiOOD. 
 
 355 
 
 " tith, Fifth-day. — 'Breakfasted with Lewis Evans, where we 
 had a dispute with James Scott, a preacher among the Glassitos, 
 and after he was gone, a satisfactory opportunity with the man 
 and wife. It appears he was reached by William, Savery. I went 
 afterwards and had an opportunity with William Smith and wife 
 to satisfaction. There are four or five men not yet joined in 
 membership, who hold meetings in this town in the way of Friends. 
 Got to Montrose, and the ride to-day lias been pleasant : at times 
 we came near the sea, and before we got into the town we passed 
 over a small river, and then over an island. Soon after putting 
 up our horses, we took a walk to Mary Mills' and drank tea ; she 
 and her daughter are the only two Friends in town. Had a 
 religious opportunity, in which I had a singular communication 
 from that passage concerning the shepherd's taking two legs and 
 a piece of an ear out of the mouth of the lion, &c. The situation 
 of Lot in Sodom was also mentioned : in the evening afterwards, 
 G- M. told me it was strikingly appropriate. This ancient widow 
 in younger life was zealous, and frequently walked twelve or four- 
 teen miles to meeting. She afterwards married unsuitably ; lu r 
 husband failed and brought her into difficulties ; and yet, through 
 it she has been measurably preserved. I thought there appeared 
 something of the right stamp about her. 
 
 " 10th, Sixth-day. — Rode to Inverbervie to breakfast. Dined 
 at Stonehaven and got to Aberdeen, where we put up at an inn. 
 
 " 11th. — 'Rode in the rain fourteen miles to Kinmuck, and met 
 a hearty reception at John Cruickshank 1 s, and I soon forgot my 
 troubles in this lowly habitation. 
 
 " 12th, First-day.— To meeting, which was filled up pretty soon 
 with well-behaved neighbours and Friends, and my mind was 
 soon sweetened with a sense of the love of God ; and under it I 
 kneeled down in supplication, and afterwards had an open time in 
 testimony. I desired Friends to stop when others withdrew, and 
 had a sweet, tendering time with them. In the beginnine; of this 
 meeting my mind and prospects were enlarged, and I felt earnest to 
 move on toward the Orkneys. My friends and family at home 
 came into view, and with silent tears I put up my prayers for 
 them, and for my own preservation ; that the Lord Almighty 
 might be pleased to renew the visitations of his love and mercy to 
 my remaining children, and I was favoured to believe it would be 
 
 so Thus the bonds of sorrow, mourning and death 
 
 were removed, and my soul given up to do the Lord's blessed will. 
 0 Lord God! thou hast supported in the deep, and I can sav, with 
 
 •2 a 2 
 
356 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 Jacob, thou wast in the place where darkness surrounded, when 
 the stone was my pillow, when 1 had hardly faith to believe in 
 thy Providence — sanctified and glorified be thy name ! I spent a 
 pleasant afternoon and evening — many friends called in to see us; 
 and [I] lay down and rested sweetly in our little berth, which 
 reminded me of a ship's cabin. 
 
 " 13th. — Breakfasted at John Morris 1 , and called to see several 
 Friends in their little cabins. I was particularly interested in an 
 old woman, not a Friend, whom I observed when she came into 
 the meeting with a Scotch plaid over her head and shoulders ; she 
 lives in a poor little smoky cabin, without any window in it, and 
 entirely alone, yet appeared to be happy in her situation. 0 ! me- 
 thought, when a day of searching and trials comes on the land, 
 when the time arrives which that faithful servant of the Lord, 
 Stephen Crisp speaks of, when 'they shall go through hard 
 bestead; they shall seek death rather than life, and not be able to 
 find it;' or in the words of the prophet, when 'they shall pine 
 away in their iniquities, and mourn one towards another f how 
 many would be glad to be as comfortable as this poor cottager. It 
 is evident there is such a thing as having the mind brought into 
 contentment with a very little. O Lord! in thy just anger against 
 pride and high-mindedness, and the many loudly crying sins 
 which prevail, be pleased to remember mercy. Rode to Old Mel- 
 drum and attended meeting, which was made up of the poorer 
 sort, and was a laborious time, yet hope to some profit. In the 
 evening I was closely exercised with desires to be right, and act 
 so. I desire to be favoured simply and singly to attend to open- 
 ing prospects. 
 
 " l&th. — We are told that the snow lias not lain on the moun- 
 tains so much at this time of the year for seventeen years. The 
 people at Huntley, where we dined, looked clean, and so do those 
 of this town, (Keith,) where we are to put up for the night. 
 
 " 15th. — Took a walk out of town soon after I arose from my 
 bed and looked over this little place, I trust in the love of God ; 
 and although I felt no opening to have a meeting, yet there is a 
 pleasant feeling. I said in my heart this morning, when will a 
 living army of serious Christians arise and march through the 
 length and breadth of the land, from this north country. I hope 
 there will be a precious seed spring up in Scotland. My mind seems 
 pressed to hasten forward for several days past, since the way 
 opened to the Orkneys. To Fochabers near the river Spey. This 
 lias been a nine miles' ride of pleasing rural prospects. vVe 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS 3CATTEROOOD. 
 
 357 
 
 noticed a large li ill or mountain, which was the shape of a whale, 
 with snow oil the top and sides; and in the distance mountains of 
 snow were observed. It has been a very cold ride : we saw a 
 number of hearty looking children, the little boys dressed in the 
 highland fashion. The Duke of Gordon's seat is near this village, 
 and on the opposite side of the river are beautiful red rocks. We 
 got tea and fed our horses at Elgin, which appears to be an ancient 
 place, by the remains of an old cathedral and a dismal looking 
 prison nearly opposite the window where I write, and a guard 
 before the door. 
 
 "16th. — Started at six o'clock, and had a very cold ride to 
 Nairn along the bay-coast. Before we got into this little town, 
 and just upon coming to a river, we met a good looking man, who 
 told us the bridge was not passable with horses ; and after going 
 to the ford with us, said if we would go to James Brander's inn 
 we would meet with kind attention ; he lived there, and would go 
 over the bridge to meet us, which lie did, and we found he was 
 the landlord. Whilst at breakfast, inquiring of him concerning 
 the road, he said he had a good post-chaise and two good horses, 
 and a careful driver acquainted with the roads and ferrys part of 
 the way. We accordingly hired the chaise until our return, and 
 sent our horses back with J. Cruickshank. Proceeded to Fort 
 George, eleven miles, and the wind being ahead, it was very tedious 
 crossing at this ferry. Rode on ten miles to Invergordon, where 
 there is another ferry nearly two miles over. It was between nine 
 and ten o'clock before we left this place, there appearing no proba- 
 bility of our being accommodated with lodging, and rode to Tain, 
 to which we got by twelve o'clock. The innkeeper and wife and 
 servants got up and met us with pleasant countenances, apologiz- 
 ing for being in bed. We got to bed before two o'clock and slept 
 soundly. This has been a day to be remembered — what but a 
 sense of duty to the Preserver of my life, and love to the precious 
 seed in the hearts of my fellow-creatures, could induce me to travel 
 in this manner I Lord, thy encompassing power and providence 
 is everywhere, grant me strength to say, ' Thy will be done.' 
 
 " 17^/i. — Set off about eleven o'clock, and rode to the ferry, five 
 miles, but could not get over, and were obliged to return back to 
 our inn. I felt fatigued and poorly ; about seven o'clock went 
 down to the ferry again, and waited some time before we got over 
 — rode five miles along the coast to Dornoch, where we got some 
 supper, and to bed near twelve o'clock. 
 
 " 18th, Seventh-day.— This place is pleasantly situated near 
 
358 
 
 Memoirs of thomas scattetjgood. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 the sea, but the houses appear to be fast going to decay. There 
 are here ruins of an old abbey and steeple-house, the grave-yard of 
 which is open and waste, and it is probable that it was once the 
 seat of a bishop. About seven and a half miles distant we came 
 to a ferry, where we had to wait some time for a boat, and 
 encountered a soaking rain from the neiidibourin" - mountains. 
 
 o oft 
 
 When we got over I stepped into a house filled with smoke, the fire 
 being in the middle and a hole through the roof for a ventilator. 
 The pot was over the fire and the poor mother and children 
 around it. She told me she was a widow and had seven children. 
 We dined at a public-house at Golspie — set off about two o'clock, 
 and still coasted for about eight miles along the sea, and stopped at 
 another public-house and got tea. This as well as the last stands 
 open to the sea. In this ride we passed over a very poor country 
 — the hills are mostly very barren ; and in the valleys where we 
 rode are many huts built entirely of sods. Some of them are 
 mean enough, but others are in some style in their way, having a 
 porch or entry with an arch over it. I counted near fifty of 
 these huts not far distant from each other, and was at a loss to 
 know how the people live. I felt for them, and have thought it 
 probable that in a day to come some young ministers may be 
 raised up and sent into this poor highland country. Lord prosper 
 the work, and bring many to the knowledge of thy ways, that so 
 the increase of pure obedience from simplo upright hearts may be 
 offered to thy name, from the rising of the sun to the going down 
 of the same ; and appoint the share of work to thy servant in this 
 land, according to thy blessed will, who knoweth best what is best 
 for me. The remembrance of precious John Pemberton, whose 
 track we are now in, is sweet. How different are my feelings here 
 in this land of poverty, and partaking of barley bread, to what 
 they were in London, where good living abounds. I look towards 
 thee, 0 London .' with a trembling heart. At eight o'clock we 
 arrived at our inn, but the room being occupied by fishermen, we 
 took a walk out on the shore. My mind is calm and resigned, 
 believing I am in my place, although like a pilgrim and stranger 
 on the earth. 
 
 " \9th, First-day. — Arose about six o'clock, and got away 
 about half-past seven. At Berrydale, about eight miles, we put up 
 to feed and got our breakfast, which consisted of a cup of tea, 
 barley and oat bread with eggs. My companion rather fails this 
 morning, not being able to relish the provisions : my mind and 
 body seem marvellously supported. AVe had to walk most of 
 
17.99.] 
 
 MEMOIES OF TItOMAS SCATTERGOOn. 
 
 359 
 
 the way to this place, the road was so very steep and stony. Just 
 as we got to the inn we saw many people collected, some appeared 
 to have come a long way, to hear a sermon in the Erse language, 
 and one after in English. I felt my mind turned toward them, 
 and after we got in, G. M. asked me about a meeting, and I en- 
 couraged him to go and speak to the minister, and he consented to 
 our having the house at three o'clock ; at which time we met 
 with a number of the people to some satisfaction, but when we got 
 back to our inn, intending to have a cup of tea, found our room 
 filled up with people, and nothing could be clone but set off another 
 stage ; which was a trying one, having to walk again in the rain, 
 wet and slush: descended a very steep hill to the river, and fuund 
 the bridge gone and the water up. The landlord called from the 
 other side, and told us we could not get over, but must go back 
 from whence we came. It was trying indeed to think of encoun- 
 tering such difficulties, faint and tired as we were, at least my 
 companion was so, from loss of sleep, &c. However, a kind man 
 came to us and told us we might get over, so we went into the 
 chaise and sat in it until the shower was over, then our coachman 
 and the kind man who came almost all this day's journey on foot 
 took our horses over a large hill, and found a fording for them, 
 and our guide took us along the side of a very steep and slippery 
 hill, to a place in the river, where he could take us one by one on 
 his back, which he kindly did, leaving our chaise behind. We 
 were content, and I may say I was glad to get into a house and 
 find I could have a bed to lie upon. We spent a pleasant evening, 
 and lay down so. 
 
 " 20tli, Second-day. — Arose fresh and well this morning, with 
 a mind resigned, I trust, to the will of my heavenly Father — 
 what a favour to sleep so sweetly. In a mile or two we came to 
 another river, where the bridge had been carried away last winter; 
 the water was low and my companions had passed it, but I waited 
 to see the carriage over, and seeing a man coming down the hill 
 with the driver, I thought it was another poor man who came to 
 assist us ; but when he came up to me, found him to be, by his 
 dress, above the common level in this country. He was kind in 
 directing to the best ford, and after the chaise was safely over, he 
 helped me over the rocks in the water, and desired when we came 
 back that I would call on him, saying he lived in that house on 
 the hill, pointing to it, which we had noticed before, as a pretty 
 capital building. I asked him if he remembered John Pemberton, 
 and found he did, and when I told him of his death, he appeared 
 
360 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERG00D. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 affected. We rode about eiidit miles through a dreary land, and 
 at length wo came to Clytha, a more fertile neighbourhood, and 
 upon inquiring for an inn to put up at, were directed to a large 
 house near the sea. When we rode up to the door, a well-dressed 
 man came out and told us it was no inn, neither was there any in 
 the place ; but as we were strangers he desired us to get out of our 
 carriage and come in, which we did, and he gave us a good dinner. 
 AVe had the lovely children called in afterwards, and the servants 
 also ; with whom we had a comfortable opportunity : on parting 
 we received a kind invitation to call upon our return and lodge, 
 and have a meeting. Left this place about four o'clock and rode 
 twelve miles to Wick, through a barren country indeed ; here we 
 found a town consisting of about one thousand inhabitants. 
 
 " 2lst, Third-day. — Felt poorly, and did not rest so well as 
 usual : however, my mind was supported and borne up, and dis- 
 posed to follow on still, in the will of God, toward the islands. 
 We were detained until about eleven o'clock, and were on the road 
 until seven; there was no house to stop at by the way, and a 
 dreary wilderness to pass over, in which we lost our way. Put up 
 in the town of Thurso, and were much tried in getting to this 
 place, the street being so narrow and difficult that it was a mercy 
 we did not overset our chaise. AVe crossed a tide river at the 
 entrance of this place, and also one last evening ; the tide being 
 down we got over well ; and now my mind is exercised to know- 
 how to move and act according to the Divine will ; having arrived 
 at the land's end. 
 
 " 22nd. — Yearly Meeting at London, and my mind has been 
 with my friends there. How differently circumstanced are they — 
 here I am alone at an inn in the northernmost part of the laud. 
 My companion is gone to see about a place for holding a meeting 
 this evening. Having caught a cold, I feel poorly and fatigued, 
 and am sunk very low ; however, I believe it was a necessary 
 baptism to prepare for the meeting, which was crowded, and though 
 very laborious to me, was solid and tender, and ended comfortably; 
 and we were treated with respect. AVe scut for a number of the 
 inhabitants, when we proposed this meeting, and read my certifi- 
 cates to them, which appeared satisfactory. 
 
 " 2'3rd. — A poorly night — my companions discouraged my going 
 across the water to-day, and so concluded to wait. Took a walk 
 to the water-side, and saw women unloading a vessel. They carry 
 an hundred-weight of salt at a time up the shore among the stones 
 barefoot. 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRs OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 361 
 
 " 2<itk. — Arose and breakfasted sooner than usual. Our kind 
 landlord accompanied us to the ferry, sometimes walking, and at 
 others riding behind our carriage. We had to wait until high 
 water ; the wind was north-west, and our course was nearly north, 
 the distance about twenty miles across. The boat was about 
 twenty feet long and six or seven wide, with a little square sail 
 and four men, who rowed us out of the harbour's mouth, over the 
 breakers, which I believe was trying to all of us ; afterwards they 
 put up the sail and laid our course until we came near the north 
 point of Ronaldsha; the men then rowed us across to a small 
 island, after which we lay our course to Kirkwall. We were toss- 
 ing on the water from a quarter past one until near ten o'clock. 
 One of the ferrymen carried us on shore, and we were conducted 
 to James Scarth's inn. When we got into the house we found 
 they were about moving, and had given up the business, but the 
 woman desired us to wait, and finding her husband, asked him 
 whether we could not be kept this night ; that although they had 
 sold their beds, they had not been taken away, nor the bedsteads 
 taken down. They provided for us comfortably, and the woman 
 afterwards said that she was struck with our appearance soon after 
 she saw us, and thought we were some of Mr. Pemberton's friends, 
 and she was not easy to let us go away. This has been a day of 
 trial to my faith. O ! how poor I felt after leaving the shore ; 
 and when tossing in the little open boat on the mighty waters, was 
 ready to question what I was there for ; though before we set off 
 I felt like a simple child, and no anxiety about the voyage, believ- 
 ing it right to make a beginning in the place we now are. It was 
 trying to lie and lean in a cramped posture in the bottom of the 
 little boat, during so many hours, but it being a fine day and cool, 
 it was more tolerable : my companions were both sick — J. B. much 
 so, almost all the passage. I got over my unpleasant feelings soon, 
 and then was favoured with a cheerful easy mind. 
 
 '• 25th, Seventh day. — We did not get to bed last night until 
 nearly one o'clock, and having a cold before, I awoke very stiff 
 and poorly ; however, after breakfast we took a walk through the 
 town, and were stopped and treated respectfully by several. The 
 boys as well as some others were gathered round to gaze upon us, 
 as they have done in some other places we have lately passed 
 through. After dinner I got some sleep whilst my companions 
 went out to see about a meeting for to-morrow morning. They 
 were told by one of the magistrates that we could not have the 
 town-house until evening, which is discouraging. 
 
362 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 " 26t7i, First-day. — A pretty comfortable night, but felt very 
 low and discouraged this morning ; nothing opens. 0 Lord ! I 
 desire to submit my all to thee ; I am distressed, undertake thou 
 for me. Before dinner William Mansen called to see us, and sat 
 with us some time. I feel a little opening towards a meeting in 
 the town-house this evening, and notice is to be given, my com- 
 panions encouraging it, and our landlord is friendly and assisting. 
 Drank tea at William Mansen's, and at six o'clock, my two friends 
 said they would go and open the doors of the house for the people, 
 but soon returned and told me there was such a crowd in the street 
 that they feared the house would not contain them by many ; and 
 that they had met with several who proposed our going into the 
 great kirk-house. Our friend W. M. went with them and got 
 liberty, and a great gathering we had. It was very laborious for 
 me to speak, my cold so pressed upon me ; however, it was a 
 satisfactory time : we returned and supped with our friend W. M., 
 and the young man who had preached twice in the same house 
 this day was with us ; he appears a modest well behaved person. 
 Returned to our inn and lodged : the dear old mother provided 
 me with some drink for my cold, and the son and daughter are 
 affectionately kind. 
 
 " 27th, Second-day. — I continue hoarse, and nothing as yet 
 opens, but am labouring to be content in the will of God, believing 
 I am in my place. We removed our lodgings from our inn to 
 William Mansen's. 
 
 " 29tk. — Poor and blind this morning, and I cannot go forth 
 into work and service unless I feel the Lord putting me forth — 
 great discouragements come up against me, and I feel like one 
 broken up. 0 Lord ! enable thy poor servant to say, ' Thy will, 
 and not mine,' be done, however trying my situation may be. 
 Took up the blessed book and opened on the forty-ninth of Isaiah. 
 0 ! when shall my soul experience more of the sweet consolations 
 of the gospel ! may I suffer rightly for the seed's sake. Favour 
 me, gracious G-ocl, to do thy blessed will on these islands, whether 
 it be little or more — accept the free-will offering of my lips in a 
 greater or smaller congregation, and if mortification, stripping and 
 further abasement in poverty is good for me, grant that my little 
 stock of patience and hope fail not. 
 
 " SOtk. — Lay down and slept through the night, and felt pretty 
 well upon awaking ; but yet am as a book sealed. This is indeed 
 a mystery : never did my soul experience such plunges, such de- 
 scendings as into the deeps, when on religious journeys in America, 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 363 
 
 and why is it so now I Hold fast, 0 my soul ! hold fast. Thou 
 oft rememberest thy humble Lord and Saviour, who suffered for 
 thy sake, and for poor, lost rebellious man's sake. May I be 
 accounted worthy to sutler in my small measure for his sake — 
 rather let my hand forget its cunning, ' and my tongue cleave to 
 the roof of my mouth, 1 than that I should not be willing to do 
 and suffer the will of my God. 0 ! thou all-powerful One, help 
 thy servant through ; let me not fall in the day of trial, and so 
 reproach thy name and truth. I desire to love and honour thee : 
 enable me to turn away from, and to forget things past ; put them 
 out of remembrance, and re-animate my soul, if any labour is 
 allotted me on this island. I believe that thou art able to heal 
 and raise up both soul and body ; but if it is thy will that I should 
 yet suffer in both, even though thou hide the cause, may my soul 
 sink down and say sincerely before thee, Not my will, but thino 
 be done, O God. 
 
 " 31st. — It is a great trial thus to lie still in the house of a 
 stranger. After breakfast my companions and I took a walk on 
 the hill, and as I inclined to go by myself they left me. I walked 
 to the shore, where wc landed : I looked over the wide waters we 
 had crossed this day a week ago with a degree of awe on my mind, 
 remembering the preservation we experienced in the boat. I 
 poured out my tears with strong cries unto the God of my life. 
 0 Lord ! for thy great mercy's sake, send forth thy light — send 
 forth thy truth, and so satisfy my soul, that it may be re-animated 
 and take fresh courage, to finish thy work in this land, so as to 
 feel quietness and peace in returning home. Thou who knowest 
 all things, knowest what lodges in me ; purify my soul and let 
 thy will be done. 
 
 " Sixth Month 1st, Seventh-day. — Wait in patience, 0 ! my 
 tribulated soul ! and look up unto thy Saviour, whose life was a 
 life of sorrow ; ' A man of sorrow and acquainted with grief, 1 
 from whom the sons of men turn away their faces. 0 ! the infi- 
 delity and unbelief in the land, and the just punishment due for 
 it. The wretched state of those that forget God, and how little 
 considered by many. 
 
 " The master of the public grammar- school came and break- 
 fasted with us, and between ten and eleven o'clock we paid a visit 
 to the school ; the boys behaved well, and I have a hope the 
 opportunity will not be forgotten by some at least. 0 ! saith my 
 soul, that I might be favoured, through the Lord's assistance, to 
 sow a little seed on this island, either in the minds of children, or 
 
364 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 such as are further advauced in years. We made an attempt to 
 visit another smaller school of boys, whose parents are in greater 
 affluence, but the master being a deputy preacher, was afraid 
 to give liberty. All our religious acts or duties must be performed 
 in the name of Jesus, in his power and strength. If this was 
 waited for by active man, less would be done to appearance, but 
 what was done would be done to more effect ; the Lord will bless 
 his own work. Not thousands of rams, nor ten thousands of rivers 
 of oil, are what is wanted, &.C., not a great appearance of doing, 
 and saying ' Lord, Lord ; ' but doing and suffering the will of 
 God. This mysterious work is confounding to man's wisdom and 
 activity ! Lord, keep my feet from sliding in slippery places — 
 grant thy power, mercy and love to go with me,- that I may move 
 with it, and stay with it. Is thy seed under suffering — is religion 
 low amongst men \ Grant ability to say in sincerity, Where thou 
 art, there let thy servant be, even if it is in suffering and death. 
 In the afternoon felt more ease and composure of mind: we walked 
 a little out of town to a place where poor children are taught, but 
 the school was broken up. Went to J. Scarth's and drank tea, 
 our friend William Hansen also accompanying us, and afterwards 
 we had a religious opportunit} 7 ; and way opened to look toward a 
 meeting to-morrow morning, and we have accepted this kind man's 
 house for the purpose. 
 
 " 2nd, First-day. — Feel more light and easy this morning, 
 which is a mercy and favour. To the little meeting appointed at 
 J. Scarth's there came about twenty, and we thought it a solid, 
 comfortable time : after it was over my mind was again turned 
 towards the people at large, and mentioned my thoughts of having 
 an opportunity at seven o'clock in the large house. William 
 Mansen sent a note to the parson of the parish to get liberty, and 
 also desired him to use some means to quiet the boys if they 
 attended. After dinner, on the opening of the book of prophecy, 
 some pleasant prospects presented like a mitigation of my deep 
 afflictions, in due time. Thus the testimony of Jesus is the spirit 
 of prophecy, thanks therefor ; when I came down stairs, William 
 Mansen showed me a note he received from the priest, refusing us 
 the place, or his sympathy or assistance. I felt calm and easy, 
 and all concern was taken away about a meeting, and thought it 
 was likely the burden might be transferred to him, and lie would 
 more or less feel it, and that good would spring up out of this 
 opposition. I told my friends I was easy, I thought, without a 
 meeting. My two companions went out about half-past six 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIBS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 365 
 
 o'clock, and found many people gathered in the street, who by 
 some means had heard there was to be another opportunity in the 
 kirk, and when they were told it was refused us, they expressed 
 their uneasiness ; they were told that I should be consulted, and 
 they might wait. J was walking the garden with William 
 Mansen when they returned and told me, and after a time felt a 
 liberty to go into the street, and as we passed along encouraged 
 the people to follow. They appeared much pleased, especially 
 one elderly woman, who in pretty full terms expressed her satis- 
 faction. I went upon the steps of the kirk, and the people 
 gathered around, and after a time had an open opportunity, and 
 then kneeled down and prayed for them . This last exercise, my 
 companions said, produced much awe over the people, even the 
 children : I heard afterward that the people in their houses on the 
 opposite side of the way heard and were affected. The company 
 dispersed in a solid manner, and I returned to my lodgings and 
 spent a comfortable evening. 
 
 " 3rd. — Appointed a meeting to be held at seven o'clock in the 
 town-house for the children of the town, which was held to satis- 
 faction ; a good many others came also — the house notwithstand- 
 ing, was not full, in consequence, it was supposed, of a meeting 
 for catechising children at the Scceder's meeting at six o'clock. 
 We drank tea at William and Barbara Patterson's, brother and 
 sister of William Mansen's, with whom, and the mother and 
 sister, we had a sweet, tendering opportunity. 
 
 " \th, Third-day. — Applied for the new meeting-house to hold 
 a meeting in, but it was denied. In the afternoon visited the 
 family of Hester llichan, wife of William, who is in the navy ; 
 she had her children called, and also servants, and it was a memo- 
 rable time; tenderness appeared in the mistress, children and 
 servants — one of the last description, a young woman, was much 
 affected. Drank tea with a widow and her two daughters, one of 
 whom is a teacher of girls in this place, whose school wc visited 
 the other day to satisfaction. Called by the way upon George 
 Boocha and wife ; she hearing of our disappointment of a meeting- 
 place, said we should have their house. On returning home found 
 Mary Mansen, a maiden sister of our friend's, and in a little time 
 my mind became exercised to speak to her in a particular manner, 
 and also to the whole of the relations present ; and after supper 
 we had a memorable time with the master of this family, wife, 
 mother and sister, and after the friends were gone to bed, another 
 with him alone ; he acknowledged we were sent for his sake — 
 
MISMOiRS OJ? THOMAS SCAT'fERCSOOD. 
 
 [179.9. 
 
 he was much broken and tendered ; and after it I lay down with 
 sweet ease and peace of mind. 0 ! the adorable mercy of God ! 
 through Christ his Son. 
 
 " oth. — Awoke and rose pleasant and easy in mind this morn- 
 ing; though nothing clearly opens, yet I see no way to move from 
 this town. We meet with disappointments, but trust it will turn 
 to profit in the end. A young clergyman, who lives about five 
 miles off, came and dined with us ; at half-past six o'clock went to 
 meeting in the town-house, which was filled up with people. 
 They were long in coming — the poorer came first, and did not 
 behave so soberly as could be wished, and I had to stand up under 
 great disadvantage, like working through a cloud of darkness, 
 lightness and chaffinoss ; but thanks be to the Lord, who gave 
 strength, and it proved a marvellous time. I think in all the 
 testimonies I have been strengthened to bear in public, the state 
 of priests and false teachers never was more clearly opened to my 
 view, and strength was given me to declare it, and I find since 
 that the nail was hit on the head. My mind was calm and easy 
 after it. 
 
 " 6th, Fifth-day. — Quiet and easy in mind, though with aches 
 and pains of the body ; for before the meeting yesterday, my 
 body suffered in measure like one going to be laid on a bed of 
 sickness. Lord, favour with strength in the time of need, the 
 time of deep trial, whether in this day or in the day to come ; 
 whether inwardly or outwardly, or both united. Favour me in 
 the season when the adversary may be permitted to come in like a 
 flood with discouragements, bringing a cloud of death and darkness 
 with him. O Lord ! thou hast favoured me hitherto — shelter and 
 protect still ; and thy will be done. My companions having 
 heard that the Antiburgher preacher had spoken against me and 
 the doctrine I was concerned to hold forth, and had given us a 
 challenge to meet and dispute with him before the people, and 
 afterward sent a note, desiring a conference with me or all of us ; 
 I requested my friends to go and tell him, I was willing to mqet 
 him in their large meeting-house and invite all the inhabitants of 
 the place ; but this has been declined by him. At six o'clock we 
 had another large meeting in the town-house, to satisfaction, and 
 in the close I took the liberty to mention what had passed 
 between the above-mentioned preacher and us, who are strangers ; 
 and that we were not afraid or ashamed to meet him and the 
 people at large, and give an account of the hope that is in us. 
 V.Y drank tea with Casper Thrails, the old justice, and had a 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIIIS Of THOMAS SCAT f EKGOOD. 
 
 367 
 
 little religious opportunity ; his wife appears to be a solid woman, 
 and some of the children and grand-children are hopeful. 
 
 " 7th, Sixth-day. — I know not but I am fully clear of this 
 place ; having laboured fervently among them. May the Lord 
 bless it and raise up a seed to the praise of his name, in this town 
 of Kirkwall, which shall branch forth and spread to other islands 
 hereaway, saith my soul. We were busily employed until about 
 one o'clock in preparing for a move, and sat down with William 
 Hansen's family and had a comfortable parting time. 1 felt an 
 opening to kneel down and pray for this family and the inhabi- 
 tants universally. The dear old woman, our hostess, and her 
 sister, and I think the servants, also followed the example, and 
 went down on their knees, and after it we parted sweetly. We 
 had a message from Hester Richau, desiring we would call and 
 see her on the way out of town. She had a table spread with 
 coffee, &c, to refresh us, which with the kindness of divers in the 
 streets, who seemed disposed to send a blessing after us, was 
 grateful. S. Mansen and her niece, with most of Hester Richan's 
 children, accompanied us some distance out of town. We walked 
 about threo miles to William Lindsay's, an ancient man, who 
 kindly noticed dear J ohn Petnbcrton : here we refreshed ourselves 
 with provisions which William Mansen's wife had put up, and 
 proceeded toward Stromness, about twelve miles further. We 
 had hired a man and a horse with a little cart, and expected he 
 would take one of us in it, beside our luggage, but our kind friend 
 Hester Richan had provided a little Shetland pony, which I rode 
 most of the way. W. Lindsay provided one horse, and we hired 
 another : it proved a rainy afternoon, but before night we got into 
 pretty comfortable quarters. 
 
 " 8th. — Walked up the hill with our landlord after breakfast, 
 and saw the large mountain of Hoy, the Western ocean and the 
 mouth of the harbour. The harbour is a very fine one indeed, 
 which is amongst the numerous blessings of Providence to sea- 
 faring men in this northern clime. A person named Geddes came 
 and dined with us, who is a brother to Captain Geddes of Philadel- 
 phia : he has procured a meeting-place for us, and while my 
 companions are gone to see the parson, I have sallied out along 
 the coast, and am now sitting on a rock opposite to the great 
 mountain over the Firth, and open to the bay and Western ocean. 
 Dear Philadelphia comes into view, and the prospect of embarking 
 looks pleasant. 0 Father of mercies ! who hast led me about for 
 years in this land, wilt thou indeed waft me safely over the 
 
368 
 
 MEMOIRS 01' THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 deeps I AVilt thou be my Protector and Preserver ? My sou] 
 craves ability to believe and trust in the sufficiency of thy power 
 and love. How warming and comfortable is the outward sun, 
 now shining on my feeble body — how pleasant also the gentle 
 breeze from the sea. 0 ! for the shining forth of the Sun of 
 righteousness — 0 ! for the quickening virtue that proceeds from 
 thee, thou everlasting Fountain of all good. In walking along 
 the shore, I saw men gathering weed to make kelp, the lads catch- 
 ing fish, and women collecting shell-fish from the rocks, and I said 
 how good is the Lord to the inhabitants of this island, in so boun- 
 tifully providing for their wants. I have viewed the rapid tide 
 and great swelling of the sea meeting it, and have said in my 
 heart ; How wonderful and manifold are thy works, 0 God ! in 
 wisdom hast thou made them all, I am comfortable in thy presence : 
 thanks, thanks be unto thee. 
 
 " Attended a meeting held in a warehouse : it was pretty large, 
 and although most of the people had to stand, it was solid for the 
 most part, and ended well. 
 
 " 9th, First-day. — Felt fatigued and propose resting until even- 
 ing, when there is another meeting appointed. Found no opening 
 to any meeting this morning, and spent it quietly at the inn. 
 After dinner took a walk along the coast to the ruins of an old 
 kirk and burial-ground, where they now inter the dead. I was 
 instructed, and feel a sweet and quiet mind. Drank tea at David 
 (leddes', and at half-past six o'clock went to meeting in the ware- 
 house. It was very large, and proved an open, tendering, and I 
 trust instructive time ; had a pretty full opportunity with W. M., 
 and did not get to bed until near twelve o'clock. 
 
 " lOth, Second-day. — About seven o'clock set off in a small boat 
 with four men ; it being a fine day, came around the Hoy, which 
 is in the W estern ocean — saw a rock called the Man of Hoy ; in 
 one position it looked like a large chimney ; and in another it 
 appeared like a giant, standing in an erect posture, and we could 
 discern some resemblance to a head and features. We were until 
 half-past two o'clock in crossing, and it was called by the boatmen 
 an easy passage. My companion was very sick : I feel thankful 
 for the preservation back to Caithness and for an easy mind, and 
 I trust nothing has been left undone which was commanded me to 
 do. Went to meeting at seven o'clock, which was not so large as 
 the former one, and there was much unsettlement for a time ; but 
 on the whole it afforded peace to my mind. When will the day 
 arrive, in which the people will be livinglv convinced and settled on 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 369 
 
 the ancient foundation ? Many are tender and loving, and some 
 appear satisfied, and yet in some places take but little notice of us 
 afterwards, so we are necessitated to leave them and trust to the 
 Lord. 
 
 " 11th. — Set off between nine and ten o'clock. P. Swannis 
 came and breakfasted with us, to whom we endeavoured to explain 
 our principles and views respecting the Lord's supper : he appears 
 a good man. Our kind host accompanied us over the river on our 
 way. We had a pleasant ride to Wick, twenty miles, and found 
 a great alteration in the roads ; yet vegetation appears backward, 
 the grain just coming up, very little grass for cattle, and snow on 
 the mountains yet visible ; and I noticed at Kirkwall, that the 
 currants were just forming on the bushes. In consequence of 
 fatigue I was sick on the way this morning, but enjoy an easy 
 mind : dined at Wick — wrote to E. Elmsley to send our horses 
 to Clythe, and were kindly taken in by our friend Benjamin 
 Henderson. I was much overdone, having had very little appetite 
 for days past. 
 
 " 12th. — Collected the neighbours together about ten o'clock, 
 and had a satisfactory meeting in B. Henderson's malt-house, and 
 afterwards rode about six miles to John Reid's, the friendly man 
 who so kindly invited me to call and see him on our way back. 
 Here we met a kind reception from his wife and her sister, and 
 spent the evening with them agreeably. 
 
 " 13th. — Had a sitting with this family and parted with affec- 
 tion. Rode on to Berrydale, a place where we had a meeting, and 
 found when we came to our inn, that the landlord lay a corpse. 
 There was very little water to interrupt our crossing Dunbeath, 
 for we walked over it. We rode and walked across the Ord of 
 Caithness mountain : when we got to the ford, about one mile 
 from Helmsdale, found the tide up, and left our man and carriage 
 to wait and come after us when the tide was down. We walked 
 on, and our landlord took us in kindly, but had no great variety 
 of provisions for us ; but with the help of some butter we brought 
 from Thurso, we made out, and I feel much better after my fati- 
 guing walk to-day. 
 
 " 14th. — Started pretty early and breakfasted on the way — 
 crossed two ferries and arrived at Tain between nine and ten 
 o'clock. — This has been a fatiguing day, and trying to our spirits; 
 weariness of body seems to affect the mind also, but my soul 
 craves ability to hold fast through all that is to be met with. 
 
 " 15th. — Arose early in order to go one stage further this day. 
 
 2 B 
 
370 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 I see nothing, and feel nothing for several days past with respect 
 to holding meetings for the people ; and am content. There is 
 much snow yet on the mountains at a distance, but the fruit-trees 
 are in blossom in the gardens. The grass is about six inches long, 
 and one field of wheat about six or eight inches up. After crossing 
 Cromarty ferry, and Fort George ferry, we reached Nairn about 
 eleven o'clock, and put up with the person from whom we hired 
 the carriage, who received us kindly. 
 
 " \ 6th, First-day. — Feel much recruited with a night's rest, 
 and thankful for favours received. The last has truly been a 
 week of toil and fatigue to body and mind. 0 ! for the continu- 
 ation of the waters of purification and cleansing for us all ; that 
 as a little band we may be favoured to say, it is good we gave up 
 to this piece of religious duty. A quiet pause this morning after 
 breakfast, whilst my companions were writing, wherein my faith 
 and confidence in the Divine Arm were renewed, for which I feel 
 thankful, and for all the mercies received of the Lord. My mind 
 is still turned towards England and home, but in the Lord's time, 
 not mine. We took our chaise and driver on to Elgin, and had 
 comfortable lodgings. 
 
 " 17th. — Went with the chaise to the ferry opposite to Foch- 
 abers, and there left it : passed over the river and walked near a 
 mile, the driver carrying our luggage. Here we settled with him 
 and hired a chaise to go forward to Keith, where we dined ; and 
 there being no likelihood of our getting beds, we went on to 
 Huntley, and were kindly taken in. 
 
 " 18^/i, Third-day. — I took a lonely walk to an old castle, and 
 spent about an hour, in which a good degree of sweetness covered 
 my mind. Philadelphia came freshly into view, and my prayers 
 were put up for her. I thought how many innocent persons had 
 been cut off in her borders within these seven years of distress ; 
 and a secret craving arose in my soul, that it might please the 
 Lord for the present to accept their lives, in some degree, as a 
 sacrifice for others, and try the inhabitants a little longer with the 
 enjoyment of health and the blessings attending it, as in years 
 past. I thought also of the state of the nations of Europe, and 
 how the dragon's chain is loosened ; what wars and desolations 
 prevail, and what a torrent of blood has been spilled. 0 ! poor 
 England, is thy day yet to come ! thou who hast contributed so 
 much fuel to this fire. Through all this, my soul has beheld, this 
 day, that the glory of the Lord shall be seen to shine through and 
 over all these shakings. I have seen that the Lamb's war will go 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 371 
 
 forward in the earth, after the dragon and his cruel war — the one 
 being for the destruction of men's lives, the other not only for the 
 saving of the precious soul, but also for the body. Lord, hasten 
 the coining of this glorious, peaceful day and dispensation, if it be 
 thy blessed will. As our horses had not come, we got dinner at 
 this comfortable inn, and parted from the goodly women who kept 
 it: took tea at Old Meldrum, and arrived at J. Cruickshank's 
 before night, and met a kind reception. 
 
 " l§th. — To the week-day meeting, which, towards the close, 
 was a tendering season. After dinimj at our kind old friend 
 John Cruickshank's, at Kinmuck, we had a religious opportunity 
 in the family, and called by tbe way at Amos Wigham's, and here 
 we had also a sitting with the family. 
 
 " 20th. — To Old Meldrum to Monthly Meeting, where my heart 
 was bumbled, and I was brought on my knees in supplication, and 
 afterwards engaged in testimony : got to Aberdeen, seventeen 
 miles, about dusk, and put up at an inn. 
 
 " 2lst. — Rode thirty-seven miles to Montrose : took breakfast 
 at Stonehaven, near which is Ury, the seat of Robert Barclay. 
 W e saw his house and the family burial-ground from a hill, soon 
 after leaving this place. Weary on getting in this evening, but 
 find tbe people kind. 
 
 " 22nd, Seventh-day. — Proceeded to Dundee, twenty-nino 
 miles ; and after getting in, Lewis Evans and William Smith 
 called to see us, and we appointed a meeting to be held in the 
 morning at the Tradesman Hall. 
 
 " 23rd, First-day. — Went to the meeting, which was held 
 opposite our inn, in Tradesman Hall, and trust it was to some 
 profit. Saw no opening to any other in the evening, though some 
 expected and desired it. Left tbe place about three o'clock, and 
 rode to Perth, twenty miles. L. E. and W. S. accompanied us, 
 
 and after supper had them and together, and hope that 
 
 a long subsisting difference was in good degree healed. 
 
 " 24>th. — Started about eight o'clock, and rode fifteen miles to 
 an inn and dined : I feel easy in thus moving on, which is a favour. 
 We had a long ride of forty miles to-day ; crossed Queensferry, 
 and I walked up the hill, and felt so little tired I thought I could 
 have walked the last sta^e of ten miles. On crettin"- to Geonje 
 Miller's at Edinburgh, I received several letters from my friends, 
 but none from America — it seems that some have eone to the 
 Orkneys for me. 
 
 2 k 2 
 
372 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 " 25th, Third-day. — An exercising day, and could see no opening 
 to any religious service in this city. 
 
 " 26th. — Set off after dinner, having Andrew Eeid for a guide, 
 and Joseph and Margaret Flintoff of Manchester, in company : 
 stopped at Haddington and took tea, and lodged at Dunbar, where 
 it was with some difficulty we got accommodated. 
 
 " 27th. — Got to Berwick and lodged ; sighing and tears were 
 my portion this day, and I left my companions after dinner, and 
 walked several miles in great thoughtfulness. 
 
 " 28th. — A refreshing night's sleep, and awoke with a degree of 
 sweetness in remembering God. Went on fifteen miles towards 
 Belford : I lagged behind my company and felt very pensive — 
 going home came up with weight — also my wife, connexions and 
 friends in America. My cry to the God of my life was for right 
 direction and resignation. I looked at the labours of dear Sarah 
 Lynes as we left the place this morning, and at Holy Island, where 
 she went, and other places also, but all was closed up to me ; yet I 
 endeavoured to stand open and resigned to religious duty, when it 
 may present : 0 my soul ! trust in God. 
 
 " 29th. — We lodged at Alnwick, and were comfortably enter- 
 tained. This morning's ride of nine miles has been with weeping 
 and tears. We arrived at H. Bragg's at Newcastle, before night, 
 and met a kind reception. 
 
 " 30th. — After dinner I received letters which had gone to 
 Kirkwall, two of which were from my son. Attended the after- 
 noon meeting, under great pressure of soul, and prostrated myself 
 in prayer, and afterwards had some communication, particularly 
 to the youth. Laboured to bear up in the midst of company who 
 drank tea with us, and felt more relieved and easy on lying down ; 
 my faith being renewed in God." 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 373 
 
 CHAPTER XVII. 
 
 1799. RELIGIOUS ENGAGEMENTS IN DURHAM AND YORKSHIRE LETTER 
 
 FROM ANN CROWLEY TRAVELS IN LANCASHIRE HAS FURTHER 
 
 SERVICE IN YORKSHIRE GOES AGAIN INTO LANCASHIRE VISITS 
 
 MEETINGS IN SOME OF THE MIDLAND COUNTIES AND MIDDLESEX 
 
 LETTER FROM SARAH SHACKLETON. 
 
 " Seventh Month 1st, Second-day. — A comfortable degree of 
 faith and confidence vouchsafed, which calmed my mind on arising. 
 I crave this blessing at the hand of my God, to be favoured to 
 centre and resign my will to His will : it is the Lord, let him do 
 what seemeth him good. If he hath pleasure in me, I shall yet 
 see the ark of his strength and his holy habitation. Had a plea- 
 sant ride to Durham : put up at an inn not far from meeting, and 
 at six o'clock attended the Quarterly Meeting for ministers and 
 elders, which was open and baptizing beyond my expectation, and 
 my soul was humbled. 
 
 " 2nd, Third-day. — The Quarterly Meeting was a remarkably 
 open time, both in that for worship and also for discipline : dined 
 at the inn with many Friends, and had a tendering time after- 
 ward. Parted with my dear friends H. and M. Bragg, with much 
 affection, and accompanied by E. Pease and others, rode to Darling- 
 ton, eighteen miles, and felt fatigued with this day's exercise. 
 
 " 3rd. — Made several visits to Friends, and had two religious 
 opportunities. 
 
 " 4ith. — To a pretty large meeting held in an assembly-room : it 
 was open and comfortable, after which we proceeded about twenty- 
 three miles on the way to Ackworth. 
 
 " 5th, Sixth-day. — Proceeded on our journey, and the weather 
 being warm, I was fatigued, but feel, I hope in the line of duty, 
 in moving on towards Ackworth, where we arrived, and had an 
 opportunity with the boys after supper. 
 
 " 7th, First-day. — An open time at meeting this morning, and 
 after dinner went to Leeds, to an appointed meeting at six o'clock, 
 which was very large and an open time. Lodged at Joseph Jowitt's, 
 and was very kindly noticed and cared for. Returned to Ackworth, 
 and on Sixth-day evening one of the lads read a portion in Sewel's 
 
374 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTRItGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 History, and closed with that memorable epistle of Francis Howgill 
 to his friends, in which he opened his prospects respecting the 
 people he had made profession among. I had a little to commu- 
 nicate after it, and proposed to the boys that the next evening this 
 excellent epistle should be read again ; and on Seventh-day evening 
 we began with reading it. Jonathan Binns, the oldest son of the 
 superintendent, read it in a feeling manner, and it was a memor- 
 able time ; we went also among the girls, and one of the mistresses 
 read the same, but was obliged to stop for tenderness of mind, — 
 this was also a favoured opportunity. 
 
 " 8th. — Rode to Settle, forty-two miles, which we reached about 
 dusk, and were kindly taken in by John and Mary Birkbeck. 
 
 " 9th. — Proceeded and got to Lancaster, time enough to attend 
 the select meeting at five o'clock ; here I met with Martha Routli, 
 Deborah Braithwaite and her sister Sarah Wilson. It was a 
 searching meeting. 
 
 " 10^A. — To the Quarterly Meeting, in which I was largely 
 engaged, I hope to some profit. The meeting adjourned to after- 
 noon, and ended solidly. 
 
 " llth. — Staid the week-day meeting and was again largely 
 exercised in testimony, and appointed a meeting at six o'clock in 
 the evening : dined at William Jepson's, and had a singular time 
 after dinner with a number of youth. A tender young man came 
 also to pour his afflictions into my bosom. The meeting was a 
 very trying one; it seemed to me, much of the time, like fighting 
 with beasts at Ephesus, of which Paul speaks. I was much dis- 
 tressed : one tender woman, however, came to me after the meet- 
 ing broke up, which was some consolation. 
 
 " 12th. — Arose this morning with desires to push on, trusting in 
 the arm of All-sufficient strength to support in further trials. We 
 had Samuel Fielding for a guide, the young man who kindly ac- 
 companied me before, when I set out from this place for Sheffield. 
 We got to Preston about five o'clock, and notice was given of a 
 meeting at seven, which was pretty large and satisfactory. I 
 stopped the little company of Friends after it, and had another 
 tendering time. 
 
 " 13th. — Rode thirty-two miles to Liverpool, and got into Robert 
 Benson's in good time : here we found S. Harrison, C. Hustler 
 and daughter, &c. Met with a very kind reception from my dear 
 friends R. and S. Benson. 
 
 " lith, First-day. — To meeting, and for the first time, had my 
 mouth opened in public in this place. It was a pretty relieving 
 
1 799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 375 
 
 time, and at the close I appointed a meeting at six o'clock, which 
 was well attended, and I was largely exercised in testimony, on 
 the necessity of being prepared for death. 
 
 " I6tk. — Attended the Monthly Meeting, where a share of 
 labour fell to my lot. After dinner went with S. Harrison and 
 John Hall to the vessel in which they think of embarking, and 
 with M. Routh, 0. Hustler, my companion, and divers others, we 
 had a solid time. I knelt in prayer for them, that the good Hand 
 might go with them, who were set at liberty, and preserve my life 
 in this land, if a portion of the bitter cup is yet to be drank. Dear 
 M. Routh spoke encouragingly to me respecting my bonds being 
 broken. 
 
 " 18th. — To meeting, where divers testimonies were borne, but 
 I was shut up in silent exercise and conflict. 1 ' 
 
 The following is taken from a letter received from his friend 
 Ann Crowley, dated 
 
 Shilling ford, Seventh Month 18th, 1 799. 
 
 " My mind has been so much with my beloved friend's exercised 
 spirit of late, that it seems as if I could scarcely forbear, in sisterly 
 freedom, testifying the same, with the heartfelt expression of con- 
 tinued love and sympathy. From the information received a day 
 or two back, it appears uncertain whether any communication of 
 this sort may reach thy hands this side the Atlantic; but as I am 
 well aware, travellers are often detained longer than they may at 
 first expect, shall venture to send one more letter, acknowledging 
 the receipt of thy kind testimonials of continued affectionate remem- 
 brance ; both which came safe to hand, and met a welcome recep- 
 tion. 1 renewedly thought the comparison of the wise man was 
 indeed just ; ' Words fitly spoken, are like apples of gold in pic- 
 tures of silver, 1 so valuable and precious. May the God and Father 
 of all our mercies, favour with an increase of living, saving faith, 
 to believe the encouraging language administered in the needful 
 time ; for verily, my beloved friend, I can assure thee, thy expres- 
 sions were so well adapted to the state of my mind, that I could 
 say of a truth, ' Deep uttereth unto deep.' Oh ! the blessed privileges 
 true gospel ministers possess ; my mind is bowed at this very 
 season, under afresh sense thereof — these are made present in spirit, 
 though absent in body ; can feel the suffering state of exercised 
 mourners in Zion, and dip into sympathy with such, under their 
 probations, and thereby are often enabled, in the wisdom of Truth, 
 
376 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 to hand forth words in due season, which so effectually reach the 
 witness, as to raise this acknowledgment, ' It is the Lord's doing, 
 and marvellous in mine eyes.' I have had frequent cause to adopt 
 this language, and admire the mercy and goodness of a kind Bene- 
 factor, who hath liberally conveyed counsel and encouragement, 
 through the medium of his chosen servants, when they have known 
 nothing of my mournful state, but by the revelation of Divine light. 
 These are favours that loudly call for perfect dedication of heart 
 to the noblest of causes, even that which is dignified with immor- 
 tality and crowned with eternal life. 1 feel renewed desires raised 
 in my soul, that a fresh supply of those heavenly gifts, which only 
 can qualify for the Lord's work, may be mercifully granted, that 
 the remainder of my days may be employed to his honour ; who 
 is worthy of all praise and adoration, for ever and ever. Amen. 
 1 heard, a few days back, my endeared friend has a prospect of a 
 speedy release from further service in this land : the thought of 
 thy departure, without the privilege of another personal interview, 
 feels trying ; nevertheless, if thy great and good Master is pleased 
 to liberate thy deeply exercised spirit, from the conflicts and trials 
 which have fallen to thy lot in this land, and set thee at liberty to 
 return once more to beloved relatives, my heart can feelingly say, 
 ' Loose him and let him go f and may the God of all grace and 
 consolation go with thee ; crowning thy labour of love with that 
 peace and joy which man by nature knoweth not of. Thy exem- 
 plary patience and resignation under the proving, trying dispensa- 
 tions allotted by unerring wisdom, for wise purposes, hid from the 
 natural understanding, have been and will I trust, remain to be, 
 lessons of deep instruction to my frequently discouraged mind ; and 
 I am bold to say, from what I feel, that many have abundant cause 
 to acknowledge with myself, that it hath indeed been good for us 
 that we were mercifully favoured with thy instructive, edifying 
 company, — (it hath often preached the loudest language words can 
 set forth). It is likely my beloved friend will have heard before this 
 reaches his hands, that I have parted with my credentials, and 
 am, for the present, set a little at liberty from the arduous engage- 
 ment of visiting the churches. It was no small exercise to my 
 mind before a final conclusion took place ; many fears presented 
 lest I should be unwisely, in the will of the creature, drawing my 
 shoulders from the burden, and my hand from the work assigned ; 
 but with deep humility and thankfulness of heart I can say, peace 
 has been the clothing of my mind since the determination ; and 
 this language sweetly arose in my heart on reaching home, ' Return 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 377 
 
 unto thy rest, 0 ray soul ! for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with 
 thee. 1 By the last account I received from my late beloved com- 
 panion P. S., her health was somewhat improved ; a Friend from 
 York Monthly Meeting has obtained a certificate to unite in further 
 service, — I trust it will prove satisfactory and relieving to them 
 both ; and that my dear friend, and late fellow-traveller, will be 
 enabled to complete her visit of love to Friends of this nation, to 
 her own solid comfort and peace, and to the edification of the 
 churches where her lot may be cast. I am comforted in believing 
 she is provided with a friend more capable of assisting her in many 
 ways than I had ability for ; but I trust I endeavoured to do 
 my best, though conscious of having lacked, through the preva- 
 lency of much weakness, both of body and mind. Though my 
 body is now exempt from the constant fatigue of travelling, my 
 mind continues in daily exercise, and perhaps never more deeply 
 dipped into a secret engagement of heart for poor Zion ; being 
 sensible her ways mourn, because so few came up with holy 
 dignity to her solemn feasts. Please to accept of as much love 
 and sympathy as thou canst, from one who sincerely covets thy 
 preservation, comfort and peace, both in time and eternity ; thy 
 friend and exercised poor sister, saith farewell in the Lord ; so be 
 it, saith my soul. 
 
 "A. Crowley." 
 
 " 21st, First-day. — I had considerable labour in meeting to-day, 
 to stir Friends up to a sense of duty, especially that of diligently 
 attending week-day meetings. Put off* the afternoon meeting 
 until six o'clock ; which was largely attended, and a very laborious 
 time to me. I had to remind them of the grave, and to declare 
 against atheism and deism ; returned home heavy, not having ob- 
 tained that relief which my soul longs for. 
 
 " 22nd, Second-day. — After an opportunity with this large 
 family and other Friends, I took leave, and got to our friend John 
 Bludwick's, Warrington, a little after five o'clock, and at six went 
 to a public meeting. It was laborious to me, feeling unwell and 
 fatigued in body, and low and tried in mind. 
 
 " 2'3rd. — To meeting at ten o'clock, and was soon broken into 
 tears of contrition, in contemplating the Lord's dealings with me. 
 I wept, and said in my heart, I desire to trust thee still, my Lord 
 and Master ; and afterwards stood up with a tendering testimony, 
 which I hope was to profit, feeling nearly united to a tender 
 remnant ; some of whom, I trust, are among the beloved youth. 
 
378 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 When will my bonds be broken, and my captive soul set at liberty ; 
 wait thou on thy God, who is all-seeing and merciful. Rode to 
 Manchester after dinner, accompanied by Samuel Forster, and put 
 up at R. Routlfs. John Thorp came and spent the evening 
 pleasantly with us, and I felt cheerful. 
 
 " 2ith. — W ent to meeting and sat two hours in silent poverty, 
 and after it had a pretty tendering time. 
 
 " 25th. — After a wet ride of twenty-five miles we got into 
 Huddersfield. 
 
 " 26th. — Rode about three miles with my kind companion J. 
 Bevans, and then we parted, urgent business calling him home. 
 
 " 28th, First-day. — Attended morning and afternoon meetings 
 at Ackworth, which were comfortable times, I hope to most or all ; 
 and in the course of the evening, after a portion of scripture was 
 read to the boys and girls, I had a time in testimony and suppli- 
 cation." 
 
 From the 28th of the Seventh Month to the 4th of the Ninth 
 Month he remained at Ackworth school, seeing no clear opening 
 into any other service. From his daily notes during that period, 
 he appears to have been very constantly occupied in attending 
 upon the scholars, with whom he had many tendering religious 
 opportunities. His labours of love, and kind advice and sympathy, 
 with those who had charge of that institution, were strengthening 
 and acceptable to them. Under date of Eighth Month 21st, he 
 wrote as follows : which appears to be a summary of his labours 
 there, both before and after that date. 
 
 " Eighth Month 2\st, Fourth-day. — It is now more than five 
 years and three months since I have seen my place of abode in 
 Philadelphia, or my parent, wife and children. Many painful 
 days and wearisome nights have I passed through in this land. I 
 awoke this morning with greater quietness and sweetness of mind 
 than frequently has been the case, and in this humble, quiet frame, 
 my will was resigned up to the Divine will. I have spent some 
 weeks in this place, and do not know that there has been so much 
 health of body experienced, for the same length of time, in this 
 land. I have visited the schools almost daily, and have taken 
 delight (at least as much so as my exercised state of mind would 
 bear) in instructing some of the children in reading and writing — 
 have played with them a little at times — mixed with the boys 
 and girls in their walks in the yard, in pleasant conversation, and 
 also been favoured with tendering religious opportunities, not 
 only in meetings, but in the collecting rooms. When I view my 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 379 
 
 situation, when I consider the distance I am from home, how long 
 I have been absent, the afflictions I have passed through, and also 
 those^of my family, especially this time twelve months ago, with 
 the pestilence invading their dwellings and taking off my precious 
 daughter — my companion in life reduced to a low state, by com- 
 plicated trials in this long absence — a dear mother nearly eighty 
 years old, in a childish state ; — my heart has been sometimes 
 almost overwhelmed. I hastened from Scotland to be ready, if 
 any opening presented, to go home ; but here I am yet, as a 
 prisoner in bonds, and I humbly hope, resigned to my allotment. 
 Often have I been in distress unutterable ; and I thank my God, 
 my Helper and Preserver, for support hitherto, and for so much 
 ease and quiet of mind in the present moment. And now seeing 
 no way opens with clearness to leave this land, what can such a 
 poor, abased servant do, butwitli humility acknowledge, that great 
 and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty, just and true 
 are all thy ways, thou King of saints ; shall I not then fear before 
 thee and glorify thy name ? 0 yes ! — grant it may yet be per- 
 mitted, even if it is thy will to try my faith and allegiance still 
 further in this land — even if I must yet appear vile in my own 
 eyes, and the eyes of others : Lord, grant that thy servant may 
 take courage, and set out again under this resolution, whenever 
 thou mayst be pleased to open the way ; and my soul craves that 
 I may be able to leave my toil about my absent family, and com- 
 mend them to tby Providential care and regard, whether in life 
 or in death. Grant this for thy name and mercy sake, through 
 my suffering Lord and Saviour. Amen." 
 
 On the 9th of Eighth Month, he addressed a letter to a Friend 
 about entering on a religious visit, from which the following is 
 extracted, viz : 
 
 " Ackworth School, 9th of Eighth Month, 1799. 
 
 " This morning, in my lonely, exercised state, thou, my beloved 
 friend, came fresh into view, and thy prospect, as contained in thy 
 last, of setting off soon on another visit to the churches, if ap- 
 proved by thy Monthly Meeting, has frequently, since thou wrote 
 me, exercised my mind with thoughtfulness and solicitude on thy 
 account. I am sensible that it is a weighty and necessary thing 
 to experience a right putting forth ; and when out on visits of this 
 kind, to know where, and what, and when, to offer our gifts ; as 
 well as to be favoured to steer a steady course through all the ups 
 
380 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCA.TTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 and downs which are to be met with ; to bear with becoming 
 patience those dispensations that tend deeply to humble and abase 
 the creature ; and also to view with an eye kept single, some of 
 the pleasing prospects that may at times await. Many are pleased 
 when the servants have a song, and they can be delighted with, 
 and in some degree joy in it ; they see a beauty and comeliness, 
 and gather near, and are ready to say, Well done. And a few 
 there are that can go, and are willing to sit down by the waters of 
 Babylon, and sympathize with those whose harps are hung on the 
 willows. If thou art set at liberty by thy friends to proceed on 
 this journey, my soul craves ability to say, Go in this thy might, 
 and the Lord accompany thee by his goodness, and preserve thee 
 on the right hand and on the left, through all thou mayst have to 
 meet with, and bring thee back again to thy father's house with 
 peace in thy bosom. 
 
 " As to myself, here I am, left by all my friends, and yet 
 through favour my mind has been supported so far, and borne up 
 with a comfortable degree of cheerfulness ; perhaps my being so 
 much among the dear children has helped : we have experienced 
 many tendering opportunities, both when separate in their own 
 
 apartments, and also together in meetings. came here 
 
 from Leeds on Third-day evening, and requested a meeting next 
 day, which was held, and after dinner, he, with his companion 
 took post-chaise for Doncaster. It was some comfort to my tried 
 
 and shut up mind to hear say, that I was in my place by 
 
 staying at this institution ; feeling at the same time a little secret 
 evidence also in myself, has had a tendency to settle and balance 
 me. 
 
 "I see no opening to move: is not such a dispensation proving? 
 Who, just placed in my circumstance, for more than two years 
 past, to say nothing of what I passed through before, even a 
 stronger-bodied, and stronger-spirited man than myself, but what 
 would acknowledge his measure was nearly full? But stop, — 
 does not this border on murmuring and repining at the dispen- 
 sations of Providence ? Forbid it, 0 my soul ! sink down to thy 
 Kock, thy Creator, and crave ability to say, ' Not my will, but 
 thine, 0 God ! be done.' I have lately written both S. H. and J. 
 H. a farewell salutation, but know not whether they have yet 
 sailed. And am thankful I feel so quiet and easy with respect to 
 their leaving me." 
 
 '■'■Ninth Month 4th. — Went to High Flatts with James Buck 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 381 
 
 and Jonathan Binns, and on the 5th attended the select meeting, 
 which was a poor time indeed. To the Monthly Meeting, and 
 sat the fore part through in distress and sorrow, but when the 
 meeting was emptied of strangers, I had a relieving time ; for my 
 mind was exercised with a sense that love and unity were wanting: 
 considerable tenderness appeared. After dinner met two old 
 Friends who were at variance, accompanied by several others, and 
 got them so near again before we parted, as to take each other by 
 the hand. 
 
 " 6th. — Rode to Sheffield, and on the 8th, First-day, attended 
 the morning and afternoon meetings, which were large and open 
 times in testimony, to my admiration, after having lately felt so 
 poor and stripped. Dear Thomas Colley is a beloved brother, and 
 much in sympathy with me. I ventured to appoint a meeting to 
 be held to-morrow evening at six o'clock. 
 
 " 9th. — Cast down, but I hope not forsaken. Lord, help 
 through this one day more. Attended a large meeting in the 
 assembly-room at six o'clock, where I had much labour ; it was 
 quiet and solid, but I felt very poor after it. 
 
 "lOtfA. — 0! for strength and courage to hold fast a little longer, 
 and say, Thy sovereign will be done in all things. 
 
 " 1 2th. — Awoke in deep thought, and prostrated myself in 
 prayer. The secret cry still is, ' How long, 0 Lord ! how long ? ' 
 and yet in the midst of all and through all, there is an invisible 
 sustaining hope — thanks be to the God of my life, or else I should 
 have fainted ere this time. Went to the week-day meeting, and 
 was comforted under the ministry of E. Hoyland, and afterwards 
 appeared in the same line. 
 
 " 15th, First-day. — In the morning meeting had much labour, 
 — in the afternoon silent as to testimony. It was very large. 
 
 "19th. — To meeting, and had a laborious time among Friends. 
 In much weakness appointed a meeting to be held at six o'clock, 
 for apprentice lads, both Friends and others. The house was 
 filled up, and there were some in the adjoining room. It proved 
 a quiet time, and ended so, considering how many raw boys of 
 different descriptions were together ; and I felt relieved. At the 
 close I appointed one to be held to-morrow evening, for females 
 only. 
 
 " 20th, Sixth-day. — I feel easy and resigned, which is a mercy. 
 The evening meeting was pretty full, and although many, and 
 perhaps most of them, were raw, and very likely, much unac- 
 quainted with our manner, yet it proved a solid, and, I trust, an 
 
382 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTBRGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 edifying time. I obtained much relief, and did not know but it 
 might be the last meeting. It so happened that there was a meet- 
 ing appointed at the same time in the adjoining room, called the 
 card-room, for some card-players ; and Friends appeared uneasy 
 about it, but I felt otherwise, and matters worked round plea- 
 santly — they gave way, and some of them stood at the door most 
 of the time of our meeting, and conducted themselves civilly. 
 
 "22nd, First-day. — The meeting was large and a precious solid 
 time, for which I know I ought to be thankful. After dinner 
 went to Ackworth in a post-chaise, and got a boy to ride my 
 beast. My dear friends are very kind, and I feel a grateful heart 
 for such favours : we got in before reading time, and had a ten- 
 dering season with the children and family collected, and after- 
 wards another opportunity with part of the family. 
 
 " 23rd. — Stiff and sore this morning, but easy and* quiet in 
 mind. In the evening we had a sitting with the family and 
 servants, which was a singular time, and hope it will be to profit. 
 I went to the girls' reading, but could say but little and could not 
 bid them farewell, not knowing but I must come again; such has 
 been my exercise this afternoon. 
 
 " 2itk, Third-day. — Arose early and packed up my things, and 
 got to Lindley Murray's, near York, and lodged. 
 
 " 25th. — To Quarterly Meeting, and had a very close time in 
 the first meeting. Dined at H. Tuke's, and had a singular testL 
 mony in a sitting afterwards. To the adjournment at five o'clock, 
 which was a very trying sitting, and a time of conflict to me. 
 
 " 26th. — To a parting meeting : I had nothing to communicate, 
 and sunk very low after it. I went to the girls 1 school and dined 
 with W. Tuke, and felt a concern to go to the Retreat, a place 
 where about thirty of our Society are taken in, being disordered 
 in mind. We got most of them together, and after we had sat a 
 little in quiet, and I had vented a few tears, I was engaged in sup- 
 plication. Returned back to the school and drank tea, and after 
 night to Lindley Murray's. 
 
 " 28th. — Got to my kind friends J. and G. Jowitt's, at Leeds, 
 where I met with my dear friends J. and R. Smith, very 
 unexpectedly. 
 
 " 29th, First-day. — Yesterday on the road my thoughts were 
 turned toward the little meeting at Wakefield, about ten miles 
 from this place, and it came up again this morning, but with 
 much weakness, and on my bed had doubts and fears lest I was 
 wrong in turning about to this place. This followed me on the 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERQOOD. 
 
 383 
 
 road to Wakefield, to which I went : fears and discouragements 
 surrounded nie as I sat among the little company, so that I was 
 almost overwhelmed, and yet at the bottom of all there was a dis- 
 position to trust my God with my all : and I ventured to stand 
 up with a little encouragement to a small number. We went to 
 John Robinson's and dined : I still felt low and distressed, and 
 also very feeble in body. Some time after dinner, a Friend who 
 lives next door, an entire stranger, came in : I noticed at different 
 times, the tears running from her eyes, and after a time in some 
 little conversation, she took courage and told me what sympathy 
 she had felt with me, saying, she had wished to see me at this 
 place, but being informed after York Quarterly Meeting that 
 there was little or no probability of it, had pretty much given it 
 up. I was baptized into tears, and truly it was a time of mutual 
 fellowship, I thought, in the bonds of the gospel. We were all 
 much tendered, and 1 parted very sweetly from them, and derived 
 encouragement. We got back to Leeds and attended a meeting 
 appointed at six o'clock, in which I was greatly enlarged on these 
 expressions ; ' I have fought the good fight, I have kept the faith, 1 
 &c. I was astonished to find such a change : thanks be to God 
 for his unspeakable mercy in thus breaking my bonds for the 
 present. Phebe Blakes concluded the meeting in prayer, such an 
 one as I have not often heard ; she prayed for me, and that the 
 testimony of Truth might be blessed with success. It was a sweet 
 meeting throughout, and I spent the evening pleasantly after it, 
 in company with many Friends, and had a religious time with 
 divers youth. 
 
 " 30th, Second-day. — Arose with a degree of courage and cheer- 
 fulness, and after breakfast had a singularly open time of stirring 
 up, with encouragement, in the family of P. N. ; also a tendering 
 opportunity at Benjamin Jowitt's, and one at our lodgings. In 
 the afternoon P. N. accompanied me to C. Hustler's, where we 
 had the company of several Friends. We dropped into silence after 
 supper, and my mind was covered with unusual weight, and 
 under it I kneeled down in supplication. 
 
 " Tenth Mouth 1st. — Went to Manchester and attended a meet- 
 ing of ministers and elders at five o'clock, where I met with D. 
 Darby and II. Young, also M. Hoyland, from Ireland: it was a 
 low time to me, my exercise being great, but I endeavoured to 
 bear up. 
 
 " 2nd, Fourth-day. — A very memorable day. Martha Routh 
 opened the meeting in prayer, and aftorwards I was favoured with 
 
384 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 an enlarged testimony. D. Darby followed, and owned me as a 
 brother and fellow-labourer, with sympathetic expressions ; and 
 the closing part fell on me, in supplication. The two sittings of 
 men Friends were solid and preciously uniting: in the last, S. H. 
 came in, accompanied by Martha Routh, and requested a meeting, 
 which was appointed at six o'clock in the evening. In this meet- 
 ing I was soon brought on my knees in supplication : dear S. had 
 an open, good time, and several young ones also appeared. A 
 little fell to my lot near the close, and R. Young concluded the 
 meeting in supplication, and we returned, I hope, pretty univer- 
 sally rejoicing. 
 
 "3rc£. — Accompanied by J. Taylor and Samuel Watkins, went 
 to Stockport, and had a large and satisfactory meeting at six 
 o'clock, in a cotton room, where I met with M. Hoy land, who 
 closed the meeting in prayer : lodged at George Jones'. 
 
 " 4th. — After breakfast returned to Manchester and attended 
 an appointed meeting, at seven o'clock, in Friends 1 meeting-house, 
 which was large and solid. 
 
 " 5th. — Dined at R. and H. Barnard's with D. Darby and R. 
 Young, and afterwards had a solid sitting, wherein dear Deborah 
 was sweetly drawn forth in testimony. I felt her sympathy, and 
 ventured to conclude the opportunity in prayer. 
 
 " 6th, First-day. — To meeting at ten o'clock, which was pretty 
 much filled up, although a rainy time, and I felt considerable 
 openness to the people. The meeting at six o'clock was full, 
 both houses being open, and a very solid opportunity it was, and 
 much to the relief of my mind. John Thorp appeared in prayer, 
 and John Taylor in testimony ; and both of these Friends came 
 afterwards and spent the remainder of the evening with me. 
 
 " 7th. — Comfortable and easy this morning ; feel relieved in 
 good degree, and desire to stand open to further presentations of 
 religious duty. A rainy day, and spent it mostly within doors : 
 no opening to appoint another meeting, and feel content, I humbly 
 hope and trust, in the Divine will. 
 
 " 8th. — Exercised in looking over the inhabitants of this town, 
 and went with Friends to look at several large buildings with a 
 view to a meeting. 
 
 " 9th. — To a week-day meeting, and silent ; thought much of 
 a public meeting to relieve my mind. After tea felt an opening 
 to give liberty to invite the people to-morrow evening at six 
 o'clock, to Friends' meeting-house. 
 
 " 10th. — After breakfast walked to David Holt's, a mile and a 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 385 
 
 half out of town, with John Thorp, and dined : went to see his 
 cotton works — he and partners employ six hundred persons. The 
 evening meeting was large, and though laborious, ended solidly ; 
 many of the principal persons of the town came. 
 
 " 11th. — A conflicting time before I left my bed, but upon en- 
 deavouring to resign all up to boundless mercy and goodness, I 
 felt easier and relieved with respect to the inhabitants of Man- 
 chester. O ! what wadings I have to go through sometimes, 
 before I can appoint and get through but one meeting. Set off 
 about eleven o'clock with Isaac Hadwen, in his chaise, and arrived 
 at our friend John Wood's at Bolton, about one o'clock, there 
 being a meeting appointed at six, to be held in a barn ; which was 
 long in gathering, but concluded solidly and satisfactorily. 
 
 " \ 2th. — After a tendering opportunity in John Wood's family, 
 with divers who stepped in, Isaac Hadwen brought me to Liver- 
 pool, about thirty miles, and arrived about five o'clock, and those 
 dear friends, R. and S. Benson, received me once more under their 
 hospitable roof, with much kindness. After supper we dropped 
 into silence, and in it my mind was sweetly calmed and refreshed, 
 and hope some of us were baptized by the one true baptism, and 
 enabled to drink into one spirit in a good degree. 
 
 " A paragraph in the paper to-day, states that a letter has been 
 received from Baltimore, giving an account of the fever having 
 broken out in Philadelphia ; and that in consequence, the public 
 offices are all shut, and the city nearly deserted. It is an alarm- 
 ing account, but I am not disposed fully to believe it. 
 
 " 13/A, First day. — To meeting, and was comfortably opened so 
 as to relieve my mind. S. H. appeared in supplication for infidels, 
 &c. The afternoon meeting was put off until six o'clock, and was 
 large and laborious, yet pretty comfortably relieving. When I 
 got into R. B.'s after the meeting, an exercise which had impressed 
 my mind since leaving Manchester Quarterly Meeting, of going 
 to Ulverston, revived so pressingly, that I opened it to my 
 friends. 
 
 " \4ith. — Set off between ten and eleven o'clock, accompanied 
 by Robert Benson in his chaise, and lodged at Preston. 
 
 " \5th. — We arrived at David Dockray's, at Lancaster before 
 dinner, and found there was no crossing the sands to Ulverston 
 this day. In the afternoon took a walk with my companion and 
 John Dockray to see the castle. We saw the room where they 
 say G. Fox and others were confined. Thanks for so quiet and 
 resigned a mind ; and my soul craves ability to advance in the 
 
 2c 
 
386 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 Christian race, so as to be able to adopt the Apostle's advice ; ' In 
 every thing give thanks.' Surely there is occasion so to do, when 
 I can only believe with tried Jacob ; ' The Lord is in this place.' 
 The Lord has been near my soul when plunged in the deeps ; 
 when wave followed wave — when the weeds were wrapped about 
 my head. 0 ! for continued ability to say in sincerity, and in 
 deep abasement and humility, ' Thy will, 0 God ! be done.' Sub- 
 ject mine unto it — then let what will come, thy name will be 
 sanctified, and my soul purified in the furnace of affliction. Grant 
 this, for thy name and mercy sake. 
 
 " 16th. — Was called up about half-past four o'clock, and between 
 five and six set off, accompanied by George Barrow, we crossed 
 the sands and got to Ulverston near an hour after meeting time ; 
 it was much such a season as at this time two years ago. Some 
 time after I sat down, I went on my knees and prayed for poor 
 mournful Zion, that her gates, yea, her very dust, might be 
 remembered, and afterwards told Friends I had a prospect of a 
 better day, and held forth encouragement to old and young. After 
 meeting I went to the old house where Judge Fell lived ; and being 
 told that the widow and children whom I visited when here before, 
 had removed, and that the man who took the place died about 
 two months ago, and has left a widow ; I called to see her, 
 but she appeared very raw and very little of that tenderness so 
 manifest in the other, who to my comfort continues loving 
 to Friends. Attended a full meeting in an assembly-room at six 
 o'clock. 
 
 " 17th. — Set off in a post-chaise, and had a very pleasant ride 
 to Kendal, and gave liberty to invite the neighbours together at 
 six o'clock, in which I was as open as I had any expectation of, 
 although not large ; however my mind -was relieved. 
 
 " 1 9th. — Reached Liverpool about four o'clock, after a pleasant 
 ride, and I feel satisfied that it was right to go this little tour. 
 
 " 20th, First-day. — Attended the morning meeting, where my 
 friend S. H. had considerable labour in a close line, and some also 
 fell to my lot. Appointed a meeting at six o'clock and requested 
 Friends to give notice to the upper class of people, slave-importers, 
 &c. ; it was large, and a number of the description I wanted to 
 see, attended, and it was a relieving opportunity. 
 
 "21s/. — All seems closed up with respect to Liverpool; — I 
 desire ability to say in sincerity, ' Not my will, but thine be done, 
 0 Lord !' 
 
 " 22nd.— Awoke in sorrow of heart. 0! that it were the 
 
1799.1 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 387 
 
 Lord's will this mountain of exercise might be removed. But if 
 there is yet a measure, even of more bitter suffering, to be filled up, 
 may my soul be favoured to say, thy will be done. Purge mo 
 from iniquity, and extend thy mercy, O Lord ! or I faint and fail 
 by the way. 
 
 " 2ith. — Awoke early, and trouble awoke with me. I was as a 
 spring shut up, a fountain sealed. Attended week-day meeting, 
 and on returning endeavoured to anoint my head and wash my 
 face, and ate what dinner 1 could ; and afterwards my soul was 
 exercised, and venturing to call the family of my dear friends 
 R. and S. Benson together, I poured it out in supplication 
 for ourselves as travellers, for the parents, children, and servants, 
 and for the inhabitants of the town ; and then set off, accom- 
 panied by my friends S. H., Joseph Smith, and I. Hadwen to 
 Warrington. 
 
 " 25th. — J. Smith and J. Forster accompanied us to Leek : we 
 put up at T. Chorley's, and although he is gone to London, we were 
 kindly provided for: — a day of great exercise, in which the cry of 
 my soul has been, Lord, help through and over all, that I may 
 not be swallowed up. 
 
 " 26th. — Struggled along through this one day more — got into 
 Derby before night, and found several Friends there from Notting- 
 ham. 
 
 " 27th, First-day. — I said in my heart how is it possible to get 
 through the meeting I have appointed \ To believe and trust, 
 when hope is cut off ; — ' Our hope is cut off, we are like a dry 
 withered branch.' Language fails to set forth my state this morn- 
 ing, and yet I went to the meeting appointed, and laboured largely. 
 This is a mystery indeed, and I thought myself a very unworthy 
 creature. In the evening we had the little company of Friends in 
 this place together, in an upper chamber at the Bell inn. It was 
 a singular time, and my companion was opened with much clear- 
 ness ; some labour fell to my lot ; and now, after supper, I feel 
 much lightened from the burden and oppression I have waded 
 under for days. 1 Hope deferred maketh the heart sick.' How 
 thankful I feel for this little ease : — Lord, my God, thy will be 
 done. Thou hast an undoubted right to do with thy creatures as 
 thou pleasest. Take not thy Holy Spirit from me ; take not thy 
 loving kindness from me." 
 
 In a letter dated Eleventh Month 4th, to his son, he says : 
 
 " There are several in Derby who have applied to be taken 
 
 2c2 
 
388 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 into membership, there being a little company who have met in 
 the way of Friends, for some time past. When I was there two 
 years ago, I visited them in their families, and one of the oldest 
 now tells me, that the number who meet has increased in these 
 two years to double. It has been a comfort to my often depressed 
 and exercised mind, to find here and there, by going over the 
 ground again, some fruits — some convincements : the Lord be 
 praised, whose work it is." After some remarks respect- 
 ing returning to America with Sarah Talbot, he says ; " I had set 
 my mind on going with her as much as was profitable, and how it 
 may be yet, is uncertain. Let us all endeavour to dwell in faith 
 and patience. I have been marvellously tried about home, the 
 sickness at Philadelphia, &c, and when favoured to resign all up, 
 there has been a comfortable portion of peace. I desire to stand 
 in my allotment, even though it has been in the watch-tower in 
 the day time, and as it were in the ward whole nights. The Lord 
 restrain the murmurer and repiner, and mercifully keep me on 
 the bottom and ground of truth, in and through all ; that neither 
 winds, nor rains, nor floods may overturn my foundation. I think 
 I can say with uprightness, it is my desire to get home in the 
 Lord's time, not my own ; whose servant my soul desires yet to 
 remain." 
 
 " 28th. — Took an affectionate farewell of the landlord, whose 
 heart is much opened towards me, and arrived at Litchfield about 
 three o'clock, and my friends who accompanied me, with R. Leaver, 
 were industrious in getting a place to meet and inviting the 
 people. This meeting was held in the town-hall, and a great 
 concourse of people there was, and much was on my mind to 
 express, although in a weak state and still under great exercise 
 of mind. 
 
 " 29th, Third-day. — Moved on to Birmingham and had an 
 evening meeting; many of the people attended, and here again I 
 had much labour. 
 
 "30th. — This morning set off early by coach for Chipping Norton, 
 and after breakfast, accompanied by George Boone, I went to 
 Worcester and had an evening meeting ; it was laborious, and I 
 felt unworthy to move in this line. 
 
 "31st. — Accompanied by Richard Burlingham and nephew, 
 went near forty miles to Chipping Norton, a meeting being appointed 
 there ; felt very low and poor indeed, and was content in silence, 
 my friend having most of the labour. 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 389 
 
 " Eleventh Month 1st. — Mv beloved friend William Hull having 
 met me last evening, I rode with him to Oxford. How shall I 
 describe my feelings of late ; — I am now at an inn in this place, 
 a lonely poor pilgrim. One more meeting appointed at Jordans, 
 and my feelings, i think, resemble those of the poor woman, who 
 was gathering a few sticks to bake her last cake, and then lie 
 down and die, as she thought. How did Ezekiel feel when he 
 baked the cakes and ate them ? and when he lay so many days on 
 his side, bearing the sin of Israel ? 0 ! why am I a man of such 
 sorrow \ Is it all a fruitless thing ? Lord, God, almighty and 
 powerful, who can resist thy will I Look down in mercy upon 
 me, a poor stripped creature, and help me through all and over 
 all ; for I faint and fail without thee. 
 
 " 2nd. — Went to Adey Bellamy's, at High Wycombe, and was 
 kindly cared for, and I felt more ease of mind: many friends 
 called in the evening and sat with us, among whom I had some 
 religious communication. 
 
 " 3rd, First-day. — Had a pretty full meeting at Jordans, but 
 almost all was sealed up as to myself. My friend S. H. had con- 
 siderable to communicate, and appeared also in supplication. I 
 advised the people at the close of the meeting, to inquire for, and 
 read the writings of Isaac Pennington, William Penn, and Thomas 
 Ellwood, who very probably had often sat in this house, which is 
 now mostly deserted and shut up. 1 told them, likewise, of 
 instances where meeting-houses had been closed for a time, and 
 that by the religious concern of one individual only, who felt it a 
 duty to go and sit alone to worship the Almighty, the meeting 
 had been revived and numbers added. Most of the people appeared 
 very raw ; my own conflict was great, and my situation trying 
 indeed. After the meeting we proceeded to Uxbridge, and put 
 up at Samuel Hull's. Parted from my beloved sister, S. H.: 
 she proposes going to London having her mind charged with a 
 prospect of a family visit to Gracechurch Street meeting; may 
 the Almighty go with and help her through this and all others, 
 and give her a reward when the race of life is run, is the craving 
 of my soul. 
 
 u 4<th, Second-day. — After resigning myself quietly to stop here, 
 I lay down pretty comfortable : awoke, and lay about two hours in 
 deep thoughtfulness, and yet accompanied with more than usual 
 settlement and quiet. I took a retrospect of my journeying and 
 prospects of later months, having now got through what opened 
 sometime back, concerning Manchester, Liverpool, Derby, Litch- 
 
390 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEROOOD [1799. 
 
 field, Worcester, Chipping Norton, and Jordans; and though my 
 soul has been let down very low, I thought, how could I have 
 done otherwise in my journeyings. Deep were the searchings of 
 heart, in looking over my steppings, and I besought the Lord for 
 a covering of mercy and love ; and that I might be favoured to 
 experience more settlement and peace. My wife and home, &c, 
 came up, and my soul craved ability to offer up all, and that my 
 feeble desires might meet with acceptance before the throne. Is 
 there a baptism for me to be baptized with in this land, in London? 
 Is there a cup to drink of ; and am I yet to remain a prisoner 
 in bonds ? Lord, only grant me remission, wash away all guilt 
 and stain, and receive me graciously into favour, — point out the 
 way and go before, and behold thy servant, thy tribulated servant, 
 be it unto him according to thy will and thy word, in further step- 
 pings along in this land, and grant that I may clearly see the time 
 to leave it, and that it may be in peace, after so many years of 
 deep conflict. All this thou canst accomplish — do it in thy own 
 way and time, and humble my soul into submission to thy sove- 
 reign will. I thank thee, Lord and Master, for support in the 
 deepest trials ; yet with blushing and confusion when I view my 
 strugglings and want of fully exercising faith. 0 ! extend thy 
 free mercy : — 0 Lord ! protect and preserve my children; let them 
 be thine in life and in death. It has been a day of some ease 
 from that oppression and death often felt. I endeavoured to 
 anoint my head and wash my face. 
 
 " 6th. — Attended week-day meeting, and was favoured with a 
 comfortable degree of calm upon looking over my accounts ; but 
 much humbled. Stood up in the latter part of the meeting and 
 had some religious communication, which appeared to have a 
 tendering, humbling effect, and I felt quiet and calm after it." 
 
 The following is an extract of a letter, addressed to his beloved 
 friend S. H., dated 
 
 " Uxbridge, Eleventh Month 6th, 1799. 
 
 "My dear Friend, 
 " I know it is an arduous work to visit families, yet believe it to 
 be a blessed one, and it has proved so to some. Take up then thy 
 penny received, after getting through the meeting ; it is lawful, 
 and sometimes expedient so to do, and view it carefully, and 
 observe the image ; a small piece with the King's stamp, is suf- 
 ficient. May thy Divine Master grant thee a larger portion, if it 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 391 
 
 be his will, when thou hast performed this present engagement. 
 Be faithful in the work, remembering it is not a concern of yester- 
 day ; fear not with man's fear, lest thou be confounded. Thy 
 soul has been humbled of late — may such dispositions fit thee for 
 the Lord's work ; thou must expect it will be so. These humble 
 ones are taught in the way oftentimes, though it is a trying one, 
 and the meek are led in the paths of judgment. I have been a 
 tried man since we parted, and thou knowest much so since we 
 left Liverpool ; and through mercy I hope my all is given up. I 
 told thee no way opened further than this place, and so it remains. 
 It seemed like coming up to a wall, without a gateway through. 
 O ! may my poor oppressed soul yet trust in God, and wait 
 patiently upon him all the days of my appointed time, until a 
 change come. My love to thy dear father, and tell him I have a 
 hope I shall yet see him and be with him, to our mutual comfort 
 and consolation ; the Lord grant it may be so, and that we may 
 obtain a mansion of rest together, when done with the fading 
 enjoyments of this world ; this is not the thought of a moment, 
 but at times, when further absent. 
 
 " Thy affectionate friend, 
 
 " Thomas Scattergood." 
 
 " 7th. — To High Wycombe Monthly Meeting, accompanied by 
 S. Hull in the chaise. I went in a humbled state, and sat along- 
 side of my dear brother George Dillwyn. My soul craved a seal 
 of some encouragement, — and was favoured with a view, that the 
 great and good Master would bring to pass his purposes, which at 
 times had opened on my mind, in which I felt calm and content ; 
 and after dear George got through his exercise in the ministry, I 
 kneeled down in supplication, and felt calm and easy through 
 the business. After dinner a number of Friends came in, and my 
 mind was stirred up to speak, and tenderness and brokenness 
 appeared. 
 
 " 8th. — Dined at E. Raper's with George Dillwyn and wife, 
 and others, after which we were favoured with a comfortable 
 uniting opportunity together. Soon after this returned to Ux- 
 bridge. 1 ' 
 
 He remained in Uxbridge until the 21st of the Twelfth Month, 
 and at times in a very exercised state of mind, in consequence of 
 having no clear opening to move in any religious service. Several 
 prospects presented during this period, but wereeither soon removed, 
 or did not continue with sufficient weight and clearness, to induce 
 
392 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 him to believe it would be right to pursue them. In this tried state, 
 his prevailing desire appears to have been, to be favoured with 
 patience and resignation to the Lord's will, and to be preserved 
 from doing or moving, except under Divine guidance. He appears, 
 however, to have been impressed with a belief, that he should be 
 obliged to go again to London, — which, with the remembrance of 
 the trials and deep baptisms he had passed through in that city, 
 about a year previously, no doubt had a tendency at times to depress 
 his spirits. Notwithstanding this prospect was extremely trying, 
 he was earnestly desirous of performing faithfully the whole service 
 which his Divine Master required of him in that land, which led 
 him often to pray for Divine direction, though frequently silent 
 in the meetings, which he regularly attended in this place ; yet he 
 appears to have been, at times, very considerably enlarged in them 
 as well as in private opportunities ; many of which he describes aa 
 solid, tendering seasons. 
 
 Whilst here, he received the following letter, giving an account 
 of the departure of Sarah Talbot for her native land, viz : 
 
 "■Liverpool, Eleventh Month 10th, 1799, 
 
 " My Dear Friend, T. S , 
 " Thy acceptable letter I received since I came here, where I 
 am waiting for the wind to change, it being contrary to leave this 
 port for America ; for which I now think I feel at liberty to em- 
 bark in the Liverpool Packet, bound for New York, which it was 
 said was ready to sail when we got here, and the Captain said he 
 would sail } r esterday a week ago; but when we came to R. Benson's, 
 found to the contrary, and have been endeavouring to get ready. 
 I believe I shall be at liberty, for anything that I now see, to leave 
 this land with peace of mind ; though I do surely know that I am 
 a poor unworthy servant, if worthy to be called a servant, and have 
 not anything to boast of, no, verily ; yet may say to thee, my 
 beloved friend and brother, that the peace and quietude of mind I 
 have felt since I came here, have bowed my heart in thankfulness 
 before Him who has been with me, and helped me to do the work 
 appointed : and I verily believe He will be with thee, and enable 
 thee to do his will : thy work is great in this land, and if it should 
 be lengthened out some time longer, mayst thou be favoured with 
 patience to hold out to the end, for it is the end which crowns all. 
 If it had been the will of Him who knows all hearts, and undoubtedly 
 orders all things right, that thou and I should have gone together 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTP.RGOOP. 
 
 393 
 
 over the waters, it would have been very desirable to me to bave 
 had so dear a brother on the seas ; but how different is it likely to 
 be; no friend or acquaintance going, and but one woman, and she 
 as a steerage passenger ; so that you may see that I am likely to 
 have a lonely time of it, but I feel resigned and not much dis- 
 couraged, and hope that He who cares for the sparrows, will care 
 for me." 
 
 Her companion, Sarah Shackleton, adds : 
 
 " Although I feel myself in a very bereaved state, and as much 
 as I can do to keep up a suitable appearance, having lost a precious 
 companion, whom I have experienced to be a nursing mother, who 
 preached continually to me in the expressive language of example ; 
 yet I am unwilling to detain her letter, or the news of her being 
 on shipboard. Orders were received to come on board, for the 
 ship was on her way, whilst we were sitting quietly at our work 
 yesterday morning. It was thought best for no Friend but Robert 
 Benson (who was the only man Friend here) to go with her in a 
 boat to the ship : we saw her safely on board, and the vessel sail 
 beautifully down the river, on a very smooth sea, but had not been 
 long returned to R. Benson's before an awful storm came on, which 
 continued several hours. I should have been thankful either to 
 have had her here, or to have been with her there ; we suppose the 
 ship has cast anchor at the Rock, about three miles from this place. 
 Perhaps I may have more certain intelligence before I need seal 
 this. The sky begins to look again as it did yesterday evening, 
 and I expect another storm is coming; how distressing to have 
 her lying so near us, and she without an intimate friend to speak 
 to. She reminded me yesterday of an obedient dependent child, 
 throwing itself into the arms of its father, trusting that he would 
 protect from all danger. 
 
 '■'■Sixth-day, \5th. — After some trying days, we have received 
 the agreeable news of the Liverpool Packet having really sailed 
 away with a pretty fair wind. I had a letter from dear Sarah yes- 
 terday, which says, ' Before dinner was done (the 12th) the storm 
 began ; I was in my chair, and between the table and a chest ; the 
 table was lashed, or I could not have sat : things began to tumble 
 about from side to side as the storm increased, so that the carpenter 
 was ordered to be at hand with his axe, in case of extremity, to 
 cut away the mast, that the vessel might drive before the wind. 
 
394 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1799. 
 
 But He who cares for the sparrows, caused the wind to shift, and 
 then they made towards land. On inquiry I was informed, that 
 we were going for Liverpool, of which I was glad. I did not think 
 that we should perish, but it was a very alarming time until about 
 midnight, when we got in here. I am not much discouraged about 
 my companions, although we have card-players on board. Five 
 or six vessels have been much injured, and one wrecked ; what 
 cause have we to be thankful in being thus wonderfully preserved 
 from harm, only some of our rigging taken away. 1 
 
1799.] 
 
 MEMOIKS OF THOMAS SCATTESGOOD. 
 
 895 
 
 CHAPTER XVIII. 
 
 1 799 1800. VISITS THE MEETINGS OF FRIENDS IN AND ABOUT LONDON 
 
 GOES INTO HERTFORDSHIRE — RETURNS TO LONDON WRITES TO A 
 
 FRIEND TRAVELS IN KENT FURTHER SERVICE IN LONDON AND ITS 
 
 NEIGHBOURHOOD. 
 
 " Twelfth Month 20th. — The way to London felt open and clear 
 this evening, and I rejoiced to feel and see it so, and said in my 
 heart, ' Lord, if thou go not with me, take me not hence ;' preserve 
 me in my place. 
 
 " 21st. — This has been an open day pretty much throughout. 
 Left Uxbridge, accompanied by Samuel Hull, and got into Joseph 
 Smith's, London, soon after four o'clock ; felt cheerful and well on 
 setting out, and most of the way ; but when I entered London, 
 began to sink, and spent the evening with Susannah Horne, Sarah 
 Lynes and others, low and exercised. 
 
 " 22nd, First-day. — A night of exercise to what I have expe- 
 rienced of late ; but through all, endeavoured to cast my care on 
 the Lord, the only sure Helper, and experienced a comfortable sup- 
 port. To morning meeting at Gracechurch Street, under close 
 exercise ; and stood up once more with a searching testimony in 
 the beginning, but toward the close I hope the oil of Divine conso- 
 lation ran from the Fountain into some drooping hearts, as well as 
 my own. I remembered and expressed John Woolman's prospect, 
 ' that the time was coming, when he that was wisest in earthly 
 policy would become the greatest fool and also a prospect of a 
 searching trying day approaching. The afternoon meeting was a 
 precious one to me, and I hope also to others ; it was a time of en- 
 couragement. I lay down sweet and easy after this day's work, 
 being much relieved thereby. 
 
 " 23rd. — A comfortable night, and though, when I awoke this 
 morning, a degree of trembling seized on me, yet it was mixed with 
 that holy fear, that broke and tendered my heart, in a sense of the 
 preservations I have met with. Attended the select Quarterly 
 Meeting, and laboured therein to satisfaction ; and after it broke 
 
396 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1800. 
 
 up, many Friends expressed their pleasure in seeing me once more, 
 which was encouraging to me. 
 
 " 2ith. — My mind was enlarged in the Quarterly Meeting, in 
 which there were several new appearances in the ministry. The 
 business was comfortably conducted, and in the close I had another 
 satisfactory time with the youth present. Many Friends dined 
 with us, with whom I had an opportunity to some relief. 
 
 " 25th. — After dinner my own situation came humblingly over 
 me. 0 Lord ! bear me up in patient resignation, to do and to 
 suffer thy will. Preserve me from the fear of the enemy. My 
 home is closed up and hid from me, and an humbling weight yet 
 rests on my soul, with respect to the inhabitants of this great city, 
 and no opening to get clear of it. May I with humility say, 
 Why is my pain perpetual, and my wound ceased to be healed ? 
 Why go I mourning all the day, as with a sword piercing my soul, 
 and in the night season oftimes such trembling of heart I Thou 
 Almighty One knowest, and my soul craves patience to endure 
 until thou removest it. 
 
 " 29tk, First-day. — I attended Devonshire House meeting, and 
 after sitting nearly two hours, felt some openness to stand up, en- 
 deavouring to encourage some seeking, sorrowful souls, and felt an 
 opening to appoint a public meeting at six o'clock. Went to Grace- 
 church Street meeting in the afternoon, and had to speak encourage- 
 ingly to some seekers present. In the large assembly convened at 
 six o'clock, I laboured some time, but felt a stop, and told the 
 meeting so, believing it not right to exceed the gift and feeling ; 
 and after a time Sarah Lynes stood up and was much enlarged. 
 
 " 31sf. — 0 Lord! have mercy on me and save me, seems to be 
 the prevalent cry of my poor travailing soul. 
 
 1800. — " First Month 2nd.— When I reflect how little I am 
 engaged in actual service, it appears sometimes as if I was an idler 
 away of time ; but then again, are not the conflicts I have endured 
 for years to be esteemed labour ? It seems like the war we read 
 of between Michael and his angels, against the Devil and his. 0 ! 
 that he was cast out, and if consistent with the Divine will, my 
 soul was set at liberty. When in meeting there is an opening to 
 speak, I fear to forbear, and it is a mercy that in this respect no 
 disobedience comes up against me. Rather let my life go, than 
 that I should reproach the Truth, or dishonour God. I went to 
 Tottenham meeting, and was favoured with sweetness and calm- 
 ness of mind, wherein my faith was renewed in the All-sufficient 
 power and mercy of God, to carry me th rough my conflicts in this 
 
1800.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 397 
 
 land, and to enable me to fulfil all his requirings. When faith is 
 raised, which is only the gift of God, how it renews that hope, 
 which is an anchor to the soul. 1 was thankful, and had to speak 
 encouragingly to others ; for which the Lord be praised, and let 
 him be waited on in all trials, and in all desertions. 
 
 " ith. — A secret hope spreads on my mind, that the time is 
 drawing near, when there will be an opening towards home ; and 
 if it is the Lord's will that I must leave this land without a full 
 discharge, and even if my foolishness appear to myself and others, 
 thy sovereign will be done. I crave ability to trust in thee, and 
 lie prostrate at thy feet. Thou, and thou only, canst change my 
 wilderness into a more fruitful field. How pleasant the thought 
 of being favoured to move towards America in peace : yes, it is 
 pleasant to feel a disposition and willingness to trust in God — to 
 cast body, soul and spirit on his goodness and power. What are 
 words, what are memorandums \ As respects the latter, perhaps 
 I may have to look over them in a day to come, and be humbled, 
 as I feel at this present moment. 0 Lord ! enable me to bind 
 thy dispensations, proving and trying to uneasy flesh as they are, 
 as jewels and chains about my neck. 0 ! that I might be favoured 
 to declare in the congregations of the people, that thou art good 
 when thou givest, and also when thou takest away. My soul 
 desires to say, Blessed be thy name, even with tears and a broken 
 heart, for thou art the healer of the broken in heart, and a binder 
 up of their wounds. 
 
 " 5th, First-day. — To Gracechurch Street meeting, where Sarah 
 Lynes had a very enlarged time. I sat content under it ; her 
 companion also appeared in testimony and supplication. After 
 dinner I felt so oppressed that I went up to my chamber, and 
 prostrated myself in awfulness and trembling before the Lord ; 
 afterwards went to meeting, where Patience Chester and S. H. 
 appeared in testimony, and in the close, remembering the Apostle's 
 advice, ' He that is afflicted, let him pray, 1 I ventured to bend 
 once more in supplication. 
 
 " 9th, Fifth-day. — To Ratcliff meeting; sat long in silent 
 travail and conflict, and towards the close had to speak of the 
 trials to be met with, &c. ; my faith was revived, and I felt pretty 
 cheerful and comfortable afterwards. 
 
 " 1 2th. — Recruited in health this morning, and my mind more 
 at ease, for which favour I feel thankful, I hope humbly so. Went 
 to Gracechurch Street meeting, and am ready to think it was the 
 very closest time I ever had in this place : I believe some opposed 
 
398 
 
 MEMOinS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1800. 
 
 and fought against the communication, but I felt easy. Went 
 again in the afternoon, and both on the way there, and in the 
 meeting, my mind felt easy. It was a time of encouragement, 
 there being a class present, different from some in the morning : 
 drank tea at William Phillips', and after it had a comfortable 
 sitting. 
 
 u \3th, Second-day. — Attended the morning meeting, and felt 
 very poor; yet in a comfortable degree quiet. Sarah Lynes and 
 Susannah Horne completed their visits, and I came to Tottenham 
 with them. 
 
 " lith, Third-day. — Is it not good to dwell in a broken state, 
 and be able to say, Thy will be done ; and when called on, to be 
 found like the spouse in the Canticles, who says, ' I have put off 
 my coat, how shall I put it on ; I have washed my feet, how shall I 
 defile them V I hope and desire to be right, and to be in my place, 
 even though it may be that afflictions abide me wherever I go. 
 
 " ] 6th, Fifth-day. — Had a few words to offer in meeting from 
 these expressions : ' My soul is athirst for God.' S. H. closed 
 the meeting in supplication. 
 
 " 19/A, First-day. — Sat the meeting through in silence. S. H. 
 appeared with an encouraging testimony. In the afternoon meet- 
 ing the cloud was lifted up, and I felt an openness and some 
 enlargement of heart, and stood up in this sense, with the language 
 of encouragement to the widows, the desolate, and the fatherless 
 children, and spent a pleasant evening afterwards. 
 
 " 21st, Third-day. — A night of exercise, both in sleep and when 
 awake : I strove to be resigned and bear my burden with patience, 
 and hope I was favoured to say, in the secret of my heart, on 
 leaving my bed, ' Thy will, 0 Lord ! be done grant mo patience 
 to wait on thee, and that I may not bring reproach on the blessed 
 Truth I came to promote. Arose measurably resigned to suffer 
 in silence. After breakfast took up the Bible, and on opening it 
 my eye fixed on the seventh verse of the fiftieth chapter of Isaiah; 
 ' For the Lord God will help me ; therefore shall I not be con- 
 founded : therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know 
 that I shall not be ashamed.' 
 
 " 23rd. — Much exercised this morning, and a sweetness at- 
 tended ; went to meeting and had an open time in testimony. 
 
 " Second Month 2nd, First-day. — It is truly cause of thankful- 
 ness that my mind was favoured with so much calm last evening. 
 O Lord ! my desire in the deeps has been unto thee, and the 
 remembrance of thy holiness ; and the cry of my soul has been, 
 
1800.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 399 
 
 ' Be thou my physician, and heal me.' I crave ability to resign 
 up all, both body and soul, to thy providential care. If thou hadst 
 not cared for me I surely should have fainted and failed : time is 
 thine, and though it appears to be a long time I have spent in this 
 land, and mostly in silent sorrow and suffering ; yet, if thou please 
 to accept my offerings, even in sorrow of soul, let thy will be 
 done. I attended Tottenham meeting, and was much enlarged ; 
 and after dinner attended the burial of the eldest son of Dr. 
 Lettsom, where I was again opened amongst a numerous company 
 of Friends and others who attended, and returned to White Hart 
 Lane, after drinking tea at William Forsters, and having an 
 opportunity, and was particularly led to visit a little son of J. H., 
 who was much broken : had also a religious time in the family of 
 my dear friend Thomas Home ; and it was marvellous it should 
 be thus, after the distress I have felt. 
 
 " \th, Third-day. — Sweetness of mind on awaking : my soul 
 bows in thankfulness for this portion of ease. Worship with fear, 
 and rejoice with trembling. 
 
 " 7th. — 0 ! that the mountain was dissolved by the Lord's power, 
 and that more continued ease and freedom of spirit was granted : 
 this has been often my desire. But stop, my tried soul, and be 
 willing yet to suffer. It is not suffering when we fully see and 
 feel what we suffer for ; but when we have to live by faith alone, 
 and by hope alone, that there will be a change. 0 ! then, not 
 my will, but thine be done, 0 God ! all power and strength is 
 thine. 
 
 " 8th. — Am I filling up my measure in thus moving and acting 
 from day to day I If I am not in suffering and pain for the in- 
 habitants of this island, then deceit has entered. Lord, keep me 
 patiently resigned to thy will, in suffering ; for little else can 
 I see. 
 
 " 9th, First-day. — In the morning meeting I was silent, and in 
 the afternoon was opened to the youth, in a manner beyond my 
 expectation. Drank tea at William Forsters, and here again, 
 with a large company, I had a satisfactory opportunity. 
 
 " 10th. — To London, and attended morning meeting, where 
 I found Thomas Colley on a religious visit to this city and 
 neighbourhood. 
 
 " llth. — To Devonshire House meeting, and had an open time. 
 Mary Sterry closed the meeting in prayer. 
 
 " 12th. — Accompanied T. C. to Peel meeting ; he spoke to a 
 tried state from these expressions : ' There is a life that can live 
 
400 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1800. 
 
 in the midst of death.' I felt a little toward the close, to offer in 
 the same line. 
 
 " 1 8th.— To Westminster Monthly Meeting with Thomas Colley 
 and R. L. : I was silent. T. C. began with these expressions : 
 ' They that sow in tears, shall reap in joy. 1 
 
 " 20th. — 0 London ! what I have passed through in thee ! 
 Where will thy haughty sons and daughters appear when the 
 Almighty and just One visits and humbles thee I My desire is 
 to thy name, and to the remembrance of thee, O Lord ! in the 
 deeps. I went with J. and 11. Smith to Westminster meeting, 
 and felt an opening to speak, and relief was administered. T. C. 
 aud R. H. were married ; I dined with the wedding company, and 
 in the evening had an opportunity with them. The cloud of dis- 
 tress was removed for a season, and I worshipped in prostration 
 under this sense. 
 
 " 21st. — Quiet and resigned, I wait daily to feel my way rightly, 
 and it is a mercy I am not overwhelmed. In company with my 
 friend J. Smith, I went on board the ship Kensington, bound for 
 Philadelphia, with a view of feeling how it may be respecting 
 going home. After sitting alone, and weighing and considering 
 things, there appears no opening to make a move homewards, 
 although I have been six years from wife and family and friends. 
 It seems as though there was yet something to accomplish, and 
 whether it be in doing, or whether in filling up the measure of 
 suffering ; whether more of the roll is to be eaten, or more of the 
 little book is to be digested, in order to prophesy, I know not. 0 ! 
 for patience when nothing is to be seen, and that I may yet be 
 preserved to walk by faith, and know purification thereby. All 
 things are thine, thou Saviour of men, and thou givest as thou 
 pleasest of thy blessings ; enable me to bless thy name when thou 
 withdraws or withholds. 
 
 " 23rd. — Attended Peel meeting in the morning, and had a 
 pretty relieving time : was at Gracechurch Street in the afternoon, 
 and a very large meeting for the youth, in the evening, wherein I 
 had a share of labour with T. C, W. C, and S. L. 
 
 " 25th. — Was favoured with an opening, tendering time at 
 Devonshire House: 
 
 " 28th- — To Olerkenwell children's meeting, and an open oppor- 
 tunity. My heart is thankful to feel a little change of dispen- 
 sation : may I be favoured not to abuse the liberty. 
 
 ' Good when thou gives, supremely good, 
 
 Nor less when thou denies ; 
 E'en crosses from thy sovereign hand 
 
 Are blessings in disguise.' 
 
1800.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 " Third Month 2nd. — Attended Devonshire House in the 
 morning, and Gracechurch Street in the afternoon; also the burial 
 of a clerk, who died suddenly ; and in the evening at six o'clock, 
 went to a meeting at the Park ; in all which I was exercised to 
 my own peace and comfort. 
 
 " 3rd. — I find no discharge from this warfare ; but if I am an 
 enlisted soldier, I shall be cared and provided for. Lord, I believe, 
 help thou my unbelief. I went with Ann Christy to Wands 
 worth, with Thomas Oolley in company, and had a low, silent 
 time ; there were only three men Friends at meeting. To an 
 evening meeting at six o'clock, which was pretty full, and T. C. 
 laboured amongst them. Stopped at K. West's school, where I 
 felt an exercise, and was favoured to relieve my mind ; the widow 
 of a late lord mayor was present, and much affected. 
 
 " 6th. — Attended Monthly Meeting at Croydon, where a little 
 labour fell to my lot. It was close to some, but hope the oil of 
 consolation was administered to a few, and felt by them. 0 ! poor 
 county of Surrey ! how mammon and the wisdom of this world 
 have spoiled thy sons and daughters making profession with us. 
 
 " 7th. — Went to Kingston, accompanied by Thomas Colley and 
 John Townsend, and put up at the widow Rachel Owen's, oppo- 
 site the meeting-house : we sat with three women and one man, 
 beside three Friends from Esher. It was a meeting of trouble to 
 me ; I sat and thought of George Fox and others, who used to 
 meet here, and mourned over the state of our Society; yet felt but 
 little or no strength to say anything. T. C. was silent, but I 
 told them some of my thoughts. I trust the time will come when 
 the command, the sweet command, will be heard ; ' Arise, Zion 
 and shine, for thy light is come. Arise and put on thy beautiful 
 garments.' But there must be a shaking of the dry bones first : 
 the Lord hasten the day, for my soul longed, as I sat in this 
 meeting, to behold it with my eyes. To a meeting at six o'clock, 
 which was pretty large, and dear T. C. had a full time, which 
 appeared satisfactory : silent burden-bearing was my portion. 
 To Esher and lodged . • 
 
 " 9th, First-day. — To Wandsworth meeting, where was a com- 
 pany of gay, flashy people. I felt discouraged at first ; but after 
 a time was enabled pretty fully to relieve my mind. Divers 
 Friends came to see me in the evening, with whom I had a ten- 
 dering time. 
 
 "15$. — Felt a little opening towards Hertford Quarterly 
 Meeting ; and Mary Sterry took me in a post-chaise ; we got to 
 
 2 D 
 
402 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1800. 
 
 our friends, John and Mary Pryor's after night, and I was unwell 
 with a cold. 
 
 11 16th, First-day. — I was much opened and enlarged in both 
 meetings to-day, and felt some freedom in the Quarterly Select 
 Meeting also, which began at six o'clock. 
 
 "17^/*. — Went to Quarterly Meeting, and to my admiration 
 had an open time, though in much weakness of body. I had to 
 revive the memory of John Crook. Left the meeting before it was 
 over, and came home oppressed with a cold. O Lord ! I am yet 
 oppressed in soul ; deliver me, I pray tbee ; keep me in patient 
 resignation to thy will, and preserve from deceit. How my faith 
 is tried — how hard I find it to believe. After an opportunity 
 with a number of young Friends, feel a little ligbtened and 
 relieved ; but there is yet a cloud to pass through and be bap- 
 tized in. 
 
 " 18th. — Staid in all day, poorly, but pretty easy and com- 
 fortable, for which thankfulness covers my mind. 
 
 " 19th. — Mary Scott took M. Pryor and me to Ware week-day 
 meeting ; divers came from Hertford, and several after the inter- 
 ment of a corpse in the grave-yard. Mary Pryor had a close, yet 
 sweet time, and I felt some openness also, though it was with 
 dilficulty I could speak to be heard. 
 
 " 20th. — After breakfast, as clear Mary Pryor and I were sitting 
 alone together, she began in the line of religious communication, 
 and said, I had been much the companion of her thoughts in the 
 night ; not in sleep, but in wakeful moments. Expressed the 
 sympathy she had felt for me in my sufferings for the inhabitants 
 of this land, and that she believed the time was near when I 
 should be set at liberty to go home, and meet a kind reception, 
 and be made instrumental in watering the seed in my own land — 
 there being a work to be done : she said she had prayed for me, 
 that my voyage might be safe and prosperous, and be made a 
 blessing to the poor sailors ; that my prospects and labours would 
 not be lost in this land, for I had been made instrumental in 
 speaking of a day of trial coming, because of wickedness ; and 
 that it was her firm belief, the Lord would carry me through and 
 over all, to the end, and crown it with peace. Lord, help my 
 travailing soul to believe, not only in thee, but thy prophets ; and 
 fulfil thy purposes concerning thy servant. Hero am I, prepare 
 for what thou hast yet for me to do, and let thy will be done. 
 Amen. 
 
 " 21st. — Spent this morning mostly in reading; dined at Mary 
 
ISOO.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 403 
 
 Scott's, the widow of Samuel Scott, who died about seven years 
 ago. She brought some of his memorandums in manuscript, 
 which afforded me instruction. They say of him, that he was a 
 lively minister : but I find he had a low opinion of himself. A 
 man weak in body, and oft depressed in mind : his widow is about 
 sixty-eight, and appears to enjoy a comfortable share of health 
 and spirits. O ! this changeable world ! how many ups and downs 
 in it : how uncertain are the best of blessings — that of husband 
 and wife ; and what a mercy to be favoured at last, when troubles 
 are at an end, to join the company of those who are fixed, where 
 there is neither marrying, nor giving in marriage, but who are as 
 the angels in heaven, peacefully under the dominion and care of 
 the everlasting Shepherd, who laid down his life for us all. Lord, 
 grant that this may be my happy portion, and those thou hast 
 blessed me with in this life. 
 
 " 23rd. — I have spent one more week of my life in a poorly, 
 broken down state of body ; but it has not been the most unplea- 
 sant. O ! that this day I may be favoured so to wait upon the 
 Lord, as to know my strength renewed ; that I may experience 
 more of an establishment in faith and patience, and keep fast hold 
 on hope, the anchor of the tried and tossed soul. Attended both 
 meetings : was silent in the morning, but towards the close of the 
 afternoon meeting a little arose on my mind to express. 
 
 " 24th. — After dinner dear Mary Pryor again broke forth with 
 a language of encouragement to me, believing the Lord would not 
 leave me, but bless in basket and store : to all which I felt dis- 
 posed to say, Amen. Left Hertford after two o'clock, and arrived 
 at Joseph Smith's, London, after tea, where I found Thomas 
 Colley. 
 
 " 2Uh. — To Quarterly Meeting, and after T. C. had pretty 
 fully relieved his mind, I stood up with an encouraging testimony 
 to the youth, to some satisfaction. To the adjournment at five 
 o'clock, and had communication on divers matters, and felt 
 satisfied. 
 
 " 27th, Fifth-day.— Went with T. C. to Tottenham, and ex- 
 pected he would have had a public meeting, but the prospect died 
 away with him. Some light, and hope, and peace, sprang up 
 near the close of this little week-day meeting. 
 
 " 20th. — Seeing no opening for present service in London, and 
 having a freedom to accept the kind offer of my friend John 
 Hull, I left the city in a post-chaise, and arrived at Uxbridge 
 to tea. 
 
 2 d 2 
 
404 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1800. 
 
 " 30th, First-day. — To meeting in a weeping state, and 
 remained so most of the time, and then went on my knees and 
 begged that the Lord would be pleased to open my eyes. 0 ! if 
 such a poor, humbled, reduced creature may ask, would it not be, 
 that I may not return to London again, unless there is a work to 
 be done ; and if so, to be favoured to see it with clearness, and 
 have strength to perform it ; nevertheless, not my will, but thine 
 be done. To afternoon meeting and was silent. 
 
 "31s#. — My friend John Hull took me to High Wycombe, and 
 lodged at A. Bellamy's, whose kindness appeared as great as ever. 
 
 '■'■Fourth Month 1st. — Before meeting George Dillwyn came 
 from a visit to Norfolk. Went to meeting, where tears were my 
 meat for a considerable time ; dear George appeared in testimony, 
 and my heart was broken, under which I was engaged in supplica- 
 tion ; and just as the meeting was closing, I stood up with a few 
 words, and was enlarged ; much brokenness appeared, as also 
 again in the men's meeting for business ; and I admired much at 
 the tears which dropped like rain from eyes present. 0 Lord ! 
 preserve me, and go with me, according to thy good hand upon 
 me ; remove my iniquity, and bear with my infirmities ; make 
 me more and more what I ought to be in thy sight. 
 
 " 2nd. — To meeting, and I passed it in silence : dear George 
 Dillwyn, E. Raper and C. Whiting had the service. 
 
 " 3rd. — The Monthly Meeting was to me a humbling time ; 
 dear A. Bellamy stood forth in a feeling lively manner, and 
 spoke to such as were under trial, and after him George Dillwyn 
 appeared, and towards the close I knelt in supplication, and 
 felt some relief ; the business was conducted comfortably. After 
 tea, J. H., E. B. and I, went into a sick Friend's chamber, 
 and had a religious opportunity with her, which proved a tender- 
 ing one. The circumstance of Jesus visiting Martha, Mary 
 and Lazarus, was mentioned ; and in the close our sick sister 
 took me by the hand, and said, she believed I was a deeply 
 exercised servant of the Most High, and that there was in 
 store for me, an hundred-fold in this life, and in the world to 
 come life everlasting, — and I said, The Lord grant it may be so ; 
 being willing to believe that out of the mouth of two or three 
 witnesses the truth is established. Spent the evening pleasantly 
 in company with my beloved brother, George Dillwyn, wife, &c. 
 
 " 4th. — Returned to Uxbridge, and attended an evening meet- 
 ing appointed for Thomas Colley. This has been a comfortable 
 day of rest in mind. 
 
1800.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 " 6th, First-day. — Went to a meeting at Jordans, and sat by 
 T. C. who was large in testimony. A. Bellamy also appeared 
 early in the meeting, but silence was my portion. Returned to tea 
 at Deborah Moline's, and attended a meeting at five o'clock, 
 where there seemed some little revival of faith in my own par- 
 ticular, and I stood up and encouraged others, and spent the 
 evening pleasantly. 
 
 iC 15th. — My heart expands with gratitude and thankfulness in 
 being favoured to arise from my bed with so much ease, and also 
 for the opening last evening. If there is then more for me to do 
 in a different manner, than I ever yet experienced, and these deep 
 wadings and baptisms are to prepare me for it, so help me Ever- 
 lasting Father. 
 
 " 16th. — Attended Monthly Meeting, and was opened in testi- 
 mony to a decree of comfort, and felt my mind turned towards 
 Kent Quarterly Meeting. This has been a day of the lifting up 
 the cloud, and I lay down comfortably. 
 
 " 17th. — An intimation was given me on awaking, of receiving 
 tidings from home ; and I thought if it was another messenger of 
 death, whether I should be warranted in going the little journey 
 in prospect ; it disappeared, and I endeavoured to arise with a 
 resolution to hold up my head. When I came down stairs I found 
 a letter from my son, enclosed in one from Joseph Smith, giving 
 an account of the quiet departure of my dear aged mother ; she 
 died on the 22nd of the Second Month. I have frequently thought 
 since I parted from her, as well as at the time, that I should be 
 favoured to see her close, and receive her blessing, and now am a 
 little straitened about it ; but perhaps it was wisely so ordered. 
 TheLord's will be done, for there has been a sweetness accompany- 
 ing my mind, in a hope that it is well with her soul ; yea, at sea- 
 sons, under deep conflict and prayer on my own account, and on 
 hers, there has been an answer of peace."" 
 
 On the 1 6th he thus writes to a dear friend in the ministry : 
 " Uxbridge, Fourth Month 1 6th, 1 800. 
 
 " I have had thoughts for days past of sending thee a few lines, 
 my beloved friend ; but being reduced very low, was discouraged. 
 I should be ungrateful, if I was not now and then to send a paper 
 messenger, after this sort, remembering the great kindness I have 
 experienced at thy hands, and from thy dear father and sisters. 
 Ah ! my friend, I have been in the deeps since I parted from thee, 
 but underneath yet is the everlasting Arm, or surely I had fainted 
 
406 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEKGOOD. 
 
 [1800. 
 
 A little relief has been vouchsafed, for which my soul bows in 
 thankfulness, and receives it with a degree of trembling. There is 
 but little present to write, more than that I feel anxiously soli- 
 citous for thy welfare every way, — that thou mayst deepen in 
 religious experience ; that by descending into Jordan and there 
 abiding, and rightly so, thou mayst yet be favoured to come up 
 with thy stones of living memorial. Thou must experience the 
 furnace ; this is still the doctrine I have to hold forth to thee, and 
 when I have seen thee in it, my heart has sympathised, and been 
 more knit and united to thee, than when in the greatest pleasant- 
 ness and joy. Thou hast put thy hand to the plough ; go forward, 
 and the Lord redeem thee from all that lets and hinders." 
 
 " 18th. — Set off after breakfast accompanied by William Hull 
 and wife, in a post-chaise to London, in a low condition. 
 
 " 19th. — Started about six o'clock, and got to Dover about seven 
 in the evening, and met a kind reception from R. Baker and wife. 
 
 " 20th, First-day. — To Folkstone meeting, and was silent in the 
 morning ; in the afternoon many neighbours came, and I was much 
 enlarged in communication, and felt relieved. 
 
 " 21st. — To Quarterly Meeting; many neighbours came, and I 
 had a tendering time. Many tears, I believe, were dropped, and 
 on the whole, the Quarterly Meeting, I hope, was to profit. 
 
 " 22nd. — J. B. and wife came, and I had a tendering oppor- 
 tunity : he has been a soldier, and was so when I was here last, 
 and now attends meeting as well as his wife, and they appear hope- 
 ful. After these went away, S. T., eighty-two years old, and 
 another ancient woman came to see me, the latter, the widow of 
 the principal gunner at the battery. It was pleasant to find so 
 much love in the hearts of strangers. Went to the meeting, which 
 was very crowded, and I had a relieving time, although much spent 
 afterwards, but felt easy and relieved. 
 
 " 23rd. — Comforted respecting my dear mother, and also re- 
 specting my wife and family ; and desire to leave the things that 
 are behind. I remembered that passage, ' He shall not fail nor be 
 discouraged,' &c. : seeing then that help is laid on one so mighty, 
 0 ! may I lay aside these weights, and endeavour still to run the 
 race before me with patience. The promise of openness and enlarge- 
 ment while at Uxbridge, has been fulfilled in several meetings. 
 After a seasonable opportunity with T. E. and wife, and a tender- 
 ing time with divers Friends at our lodgings, we left Folkstone 
 and got into Dover to dinner, easy in mind. 
 
1800 ] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 407 
 
 " Much freed from labour and toil of mind. 0 ! how comfort- 
 able, and yet must I not learn in all states to be content. Yes, I 
 long for it, and to be able at all times, and on all occasions to say, 
 Thy will be done. To meeting, which was small, but I felt con- 
 siderable openness and enlargement. 
 
 " 25th. — I looked yesterday towards calling the town's-people 
 together in the evening, but it left me. 
 
 " 26tk. — But dull and low this evening; two days more spent, 
 and not one religious opportunity in a family ; yet hope and trust 
 I have not been idle. 
 
 " 27th, First-day. — Feed me with convenient food this day, and 
 let thy will be done. Attended both meetings in silence ; R. B. 
 and daughter, and two others, had the labour. In the evening 
 many friends called, and I felt openness towards divers states, and 
 relieved my mind ; I was again exercised in supplication at supper, 
 and lay down easy. 
 
 " 28th. — Spent this day under close exercise. 
 
 " 29th. — See no opening towards the people at large, nor any 
 thing to do in a more select manner. Set off in a post-chaise, and 
 got to Rochester in the evening, and met a kind reception at W. 
 Cowper's. 
 
 " 30th. — At meeting my soul was humbled into tears of con- 
 trition. I remembered the first time I came to this place, and how 
 I had to turn back to London, and the singular occurrence which 
 took place. This is the fourth time I have been here, and some 
 liberty of soul was experienced, for which thankfulness was felt ; 
 and towards the close of the meeting I had a tendering opportunity. 
 
 " Fifth Month 1st. — Met some Friends at seven o'clock, in order 
 to get them reconciled one to another ; again at ten o'clock, and 
 also at two o'clock, and in some good measure saw the end of our 
 labour answered, and feel comfortable now while making this note. 
 My mind is easy and faith renewed. 
 
 " 2nd. — Arose early and with an easy mind, finding no more to 
 
 do here, but an opportunity with , who attends 
 
 meetings and appears sober and hopeful. I am now again at 
 Dartford, where I have been greatly afflicted in times past, when 
 my face has been turned towards London ; it was so the last time 
 I was here. I had a pretty comfortable entry into London, and 
 dined at Joseph Smith's, whose kind notice and attention, with 
 that of his wife, had a tendency to comfort and cheer my mind ; 
 he went with me to J. Bevans 1 , from whenco I took chaise and 
 proceeded to Uxbridge. 
 
408 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1800. 
 
 CHAPTER XIX. 
 
 1800. RELIGIOUS SERVICE IN LONDON — LETTER FROM MARY DUDLEY- 
 WRITES TO GEORGE DILLWYN HAS A CONCERN TO PAY A RELIGIOUS 
 
 VISIT TO THE KING PROCEEDS TO WEYMOUTH FOR THAT PURPOSE 
 
 HAS AN INTERVIEW WITH THE KING RETURNS TO LONDON HAS A 
 
 PROSPECT OF RETURNING TO AMERICA PROCEEDS TO LIVERPOOL 
 
 EMBARKS FOR NEW YORK HIS VOYAGE ARRIVES AT NEW YORK 
 
 AND PROCEEDS HOME. 
 
 " Fifth Month 3rd. — The language of my heart has been, ' Teach 
 me thy way, O Lord ! and lead me in a plain path, because of 
 mine enemies. 1 
 
 " 4th, First-day. — Sweet and easy on awaking after a comfort- 
 able sleep. My heart is thankful, and desires to be preserved in 
 watchfulness and resignation to the Divine will. At meeting ; I 
 thought A. Crowley appeared in a sweet and lively manner; soon 
 after which a dark cloud gathered in the outward heavens, and 
 spread with some thunder ; and while I was on my feet the wind 
 increased, and hail-stones came so powerfully against the window, 
 &c, that the attention of some was turned away, and I sat down. 
 Silent in the afternoon meeting. 
 
 " 6th, Third-day. — I have been reading and walking with an 
 exercised mind ; and this precious thought is sweet, that 1 cannot 
 do without affliction : I feel content. Beautiful indeed does the 
 creation appear this day. In the midst of these pleasant pictures, 
 I cast an eye on home, once my pleasant abode, but from which I 
 am now far separated, and in a stripped and tried condition. ' It 
 is the Lord, let him do what seemeth him good,' let his will be 
 done, and all will work in the end for my good. 
 
 " 7th. — Was singularly concerned in communication in meeting 
 to address divers states — last First-day's concern was revived. 
 
 " 10th. — I have been greatly tried with the veiling of the light 
 of God's countenance, for which I have long and often mourned in 
 this land ; but through it all, what a favour not to lose all faith. 
 What has supported unto this day but goodness and mercy, though 
 sometimes much hid I I bless the name of the Lord, in that He 
 
1800.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 409 
 
 is favouring me to believe in his name. Surely I am yet a weak 
 Christian, to mourn when tried, as I have done. It is said of the 
 eagle, that though ever so hungry, she makes no noise : when will 
 the time come that I shall bear all things, and hope all things. 
 
 " 13th. — Again at my friend S. Hull's, after a little visit to 
 London. I attended the burial of Sarah Row, the day before 
 yesterday, and was largely exercised in testimony at Devonshire 
 House, where the corpse was brought ; and again in the afternoon 
 pretty much so at Gracechurch Street ; and some openness yester- 
 day at the Morning Meeting, but have returned low and exercised ; 
 it seems like a remand back to the prison-house. Lord, help. 
 
 " ]Sth, First-day. — Mary Watson and Mary Alexander, 
 Robert Fowler and wife, with several others were at meeting, but 
 not a line in the way of ministry. My employment was to trace 
 back my path to the first Yearly Meeting I attended ; and 
 although I have been greatly tried since, in various ways, I hope 
 no wilful transgressions stand against me. To afternoon meeting, 
 in which I had not long sat down, before my mind was favoured 
 with an opening, and brought into sympathy with the oppressed 
 and exercised. I remembered, and also mentioned, how gladdening 
 it is to mariners at sea, after being driven hither and thither by 
 high winds, and having had many cloudy days, so that no observa- 
 tion could be taken ; when another ship, perhaps equally distressed, 
 may have been favoured with the sight of the sun, and taken an 
 observation ; and when these meet at sea, and inquire what latitude, 
 and compare notes, and gain some information, how joyfully they 
 again proceed on their voyage. What a joyful sound it was to the 
 poor disciples, when the Master saluted them with, 'All hail I 1 
 
 " 1 9th, Second-day. — Attended both of the sittings of the Yearly 
 Meeting of ministers and elders in London, and was very poor." 
 
 The following letter was received from his friend Mary Dudley: — ■ 
 " Suirmlle. near Clonmel, \8th of Fifth Month, 1800. 
 
 " My much beloved Friexd, 
 " How has thy sympathising, thy cordial salutation, many weeks 
 ago received, been apparently neglected and unacknowledged ; but 
 how different from appearance have been the real feelings of my 
 heart, which, burdened and longing for some relief, sought in vain 
 for it. Yet no ability has it found to pour forth its sorrows, and 
 such a restraint T know not that I ever experienced from holding 
 converse in this way, so that I have, for many months past, been 
 
410 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1800. 
 
 like an ungrateful receiver of many affectionate tokens of unmerited 
 regard from some near my best life. The purgings of my poor 
 tried spirit have been and continue unutterable : in this state, sick 
 in bed one morning, thy valued lines met me, like deep uttering 
 unto deep ; and I was not afraid to say, thankfulness was the 
 covering of my mind, stripped and divested as it feels of any 
 sensible fruit of righteousness, and every word sunk into an almost 
 broken heart. On thy account, my long-suffering brother, I could 
 and did say, this liath God wrought, having introduced thee into 
 these afflictions, and then causing thee to partake of the consola- 
 tions of the Gospel of his dear Son, that thereby full conformity to 
 Him might be effected, and the purpose of His holy will through 
 thee wrought out. Never did I question this would be the blessed 
 consequence of thy deep and almost constant travail, nor that the 
 path of consecrated suffering would lead to deeper unfoldings into 
 the mystery of godliness ; and 0 ! that whatever remains to be 
 partaken of for thy own and the Church's good, thou mayst have 
 in addition, the sustaining efficacy of continued everlasting love ; 
 whatever becomes of thy poor friend and little sister, whose way 
 is closed up on every side, and in the depth of astonishment utters 
 at seasons this language : ' Is Thy mercy clean gone for ever ; 
 wilt Thou be favourable no more ? ' Thy query, my dear friend, 
 deeply penetrated my heart, ' What art thou about I ' Trying to 
 stand against a host of difficulties within and without ; against a 
 torrent of temptation (if it be so) from the adversary of all good ; 
 often fearing 1 have introduced myself and others into an increase 
 of suffering, more than might have come in holy appointment, by 
 overlooking the right time, and by waiting for more light, when a 
 sufficiency was vouchsafed ; or by not abiding where there was at 
 seasons a gathering, even into that spot, that longed-for state, 
 where ' not my will but thine be done, 1 arises : yet though often 
 tossed in a manner not to be set forth, gracious mercy withholds 
 condemnation ; I feel not the dreadful weight of reproach from an 
 ever-loving Father, but at times a hope, that feeling a degree of 
 resignation, and not standing opposed to His revealed will, He 
 will either in abundant mercy accept the imperfect sacrifice, or in 
 His own way and time burst my bonds, and proclaim liberty to 
 the captive. If I am just lifted out of the dungeon with any little 
 message to the people, and while in commission the vessel feels a 
 little strength, soon is it gone and darkness covers the earth, as 
 though the sun would no more shine upon me. I am here in this 
 land of commotion and bloodshed, a suffering stranger to my own 
 
1800.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 411 
 
 feeling, weaned as I long since told thee (in the confidence I felt) 
 from it, and looking to a residence on the other side of the water, 
 when a detention (very unexpectedly) of several months in the 
 last year, confirmed my feelings in its being the best for us all. 
 Self, and what attaches to it, has driven me farther than I had 
 any view of when I sat down ; but it has not so fully occupied, as 
 to hide thee and thy views, my beloved brother, from my sight. 
 Much do I long to know how thou art likely to be disposed of ; 
 and 0 ! how should I be comforted by a little of thy society, pre- 
 vious to a separation by the great deep ; at one time it looked 
 rather probable that at this season I might be so indulged, but 
 that is over, and I can only hope through thy own kind pen to 
 know whether a peaceful retreat has been sounded in thy ears : if 
 so, may the Lord go with thee, and His Spirit give thee rest — 
 preserve on the mighty waters, and restore thee to thy endeared 
 connexions with the joy of harvest, and unbroken sheaves of soul- 
 enriching peace. I would request thy kind host and wife, J. and 
 R. Smith, to accept my and my R. D.'s love, and thy dear country- 
 folk near thee. 1 shall hope, little as I deserve it, for a line from 
 thee when thy case is determined as to moving or staying. 11 
 
 " Sixth Month \Uh. — I am now again at my friend J. H.'s, 
 Uxbridge'; many days have passed since I made any record ; — 
 have got through the Yearly Meeting with a pretty comfortable 
 share of health and strength, and trust I laboured to be found in 
 my proper allotment : although trying things have occurred, yet 
 it has been thought on the whole the most solid meeting ever re- 
 membered. What a favour, what a consolation to see the Church 
 advancing as out of the wilderness ! this I think my eyes have 
 seen since being in this land, and have rejoiced in it. I left London 
 under pressure of soul; and thought on sitting down in the meeting 
 at Brentford, a few days since, that my state resembled a field laid 
 open without fence or wall ; and under this sense I wept much, 
 and continued weeping until I felt strength to bend in fervent 
 supplication ; and afterwards by some communication, got much 
 relief. Sweet was the calmness that covered my mind for a season, 
 whilst sitting in the men's meeting, which in some degree con- 
 tinued through the remainder of the day. Here I am again, shut 
 up a prisoner, but not altogether without hope, though 1 have had 
 a deep plunge since returning. 
 
 " 16th. — Week-day meeting was a humbling one ; my faith was 
 renewed in silent travail, and I was favoured with openings. The 
 
412 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1800. 
 
 Lord continue his good hand upon me, and enable me to believe 
 and put my trust in him, and to wait on him. Humbling pros- 
 pects opened a little to my view respecting the king and London, 
 and I lay down resigned to whatever allotment Divine Providence 
 may permit. 
 
 " 23rd. — London Quarterly Meeting of ministers and elders 
 was but a flat dull time, and the general Quarterly Meeting, held 
 on the 24th, was a very low time in the first part : 1 feared there 
 was not a digging for the fresh springs of life ; and throughout 
 the business there seemed very little life stirring. Is it not a 
 sifting, proving time, in which the prudent men keep silence. 
 
 " 26th. — Had a trying time on my bed ; the state of Society 
 and individuals pressed me sorely. 
 
 " 29th, First-day. — Empty and poor on awaking ; yet hope, in 
 prostration and abasement, I felt desirous to subscribe to the 
 Lord's will. I long to experience his favour, and the lifting up of 
 the precious light of life in my soul, and to feel more liberty of 
 spirit. I long to see the way home, how and when ; and yet I 
 desire also to lie abased and humbled, so as to be willing to be 
 dashed to pieces, and yet more broken, if it is the Lord's blessed 
 will ; believing his power is able to make me up anew. Attended 
 both meetings, and was shut up in silent sorrow. 
 
 " Seventh Month 1st. — To Southwark meeting, in which I felt 
 a concern to labour, and it was to some satisfaction. 
 
 " 3rd. — Awoke about one o'clock, and it was a very singular 
 time of opening prospects ; and thanks be to God, my mind was 
 brought into resignation and willingness to submit to his will — 
 perhaps I hardly ever had a clearer opening into the agony of my 
 Saviour in the garden, and also his crucifixion; he emptied himself 
 — he stooped to the cross, and who can declare his generation, for 
 his life was taken from the earth. 
 
 " 6th, First-day. — Attended Gracechurch Street meeting, and 
 dined at W. Birkbecks, accompanied by Ann Crowley, and after 
 dinner my mind was turned towards the son in a particular manner, 
 and afterwards to the goodly old Friend, the grandmother ; and 
 M. Bevan closed the opportunity by prayer for the youth.* To 
 Gracechurch Street meeting again in the afternoon, and sat it in 
 painful silence. 
 
 " 7th. — Received a letter from Samuel Smith ; he, Richard 
 Jordan, and Gervas Johnson arrived at Liverpool the 3rd of this 
 mouth. Attended a Special Meeting to-day on account of H. B. 
 
 * Who died soon after. 
 
1800.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 413 
 
 I have felt more ease of spirit these two days past, and have rested 
 on my bed, for which thankfulness of heart is experienced. 
 
 "12^/i. — Had a tender opportunity with one I longed to see. 
 Packed up my things in trunks and saddle-bags, and now I have 
 said in my heart, what wait I for, but the signature and seal of 
 permission to go home. Spent the evening quiet and easy, and 
 lay down so, insomuch as to adopt this language : ' Thou art my 
 Father ; thou art my Judge, and my Lawgiver ; thou art my 
 King, and thou wilt save me.' O ! for faith to hold fast such a 
 confidence as this. 
 
 " ]0th. — Still feel a comfortable reviving degree of faith and 
 hope ; 0 ! may it give courage and boldness. Two open times in 
 meeting to-day, to my admiration. 
 
 " 14/A. — Attended morning meeting in London, which was 
 exercising, and yet I was favoured to bear up under complicated 
 trials. In the evening answered George Dillwvn's letter, which 
 is as follows : 
 
 " Tottenham, Seventh Month 14M, 1800. 
 " My Beloved Friend, 
 " Since thy letter was put into my hands at the close of the 
 meeting this morning, I have been looking it over again and again, 
 musing and pondering its contents ; and the more I think of it 
 and of thee, my dear feeling brother, the more I am induced to 
 believe thou wast assisted with best Help to pour a little oil into 
 these wounds, that I have sometimes ventured to believe were 
 made as by fetters of iron ; for on looking over the precious en- 
 couraging portion of scripture thou sent, and turning my eye3 to 
 the margin, I there read, ' His soul came into iron ;' and I gained 
 instruction thereby. How I have longed, both in lonely places in 
 the day time, and upon my bed in the night season, when almost 
 every brook or stream of comfort was dried up, that the King im- 
 mortal, and everlastingly glorious, might be pleased to loose my 
 imprisoned spirit, and let me go free ; therefore, to this little 
 portion which thou sent me, with the greatest sincerity I can sav, 
 Amen. Thou art, I think just right with respect to comparing, 
 or bringing us back to youthful days. I was a diver, and thou and 
 I have had our dips under the water together since the day we 
 met in this land. How singular, and yet how comfortable was it, 
 on reading thy lines, to remember afresh the thoughts of my heart 
 respecting thee, within these few days past— they came up some- 
 what after this manner ; for I may assure thee, I have had a very 
 
414 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1800. 
 
 deep plunge : ' There is my friend and brother George Dillwyn, 
 who appears to be bearing me company, and seems like another 
 Ezekiel ; he has prepared his stuff, and has removed ; he has had 
 a singular life in this land, much like mine ; he has returned again, 
 and though settled as to appearance — and though I am separated 
 from wife and children, &c, yet he appears like one bound as I 
 am. I have seen him as a mark that has been shot at, and the 
 archers have wounded him. 1 From thoughts like these my mind was 
 brought into near fellowship with thee ; was not this like diving 
 under the water, and touching ? Canst thou recollect that we can 
 see one another under water, when we cannot speak \ I have 
 often wanted to say more to thee, but when with thee have been 
 restrained. I was at Tottenham yesterday, and in both meetings 
 favoured with enlargement in testimony ; it seemed like a fare- 
 well service, and afforded much comfort and relief to my mind. 
 
 And now I may conclude by assuring thee, that 
 
 no part of thy precious letter was more sweet than the clo^e, 
 whereby thou felt liberty to own me as a brother in the sympathy 
 and fellowship of the gospel : and as far as I dare venture in this 
 my imprisoned state, I can dearly salute thee in the measure of 
 the same. 
 
 " Thomas Scatteroood." 
 
 " 15th. — Awoke early, and the situation of H. B. awoke with 
 me, and pressed hard on my mind ; which, with other prospects 
 relating to myself, brought me into prostration and tears. 
 
 " 20th, First-day. — To Gracechurch Street meeting, which was 
 silent on my part : dined at Samuel Southall's, and had a tender- 
 ing opportunity with the family. To Gracechurch Street meeting 
 at three o'clock, and had a comfortable time in prayer, and after- 
 wards in testimony, particularly towards the dear youth. Stepped 
 into William Allen's and took some refreshment ; here I met 
 with my dear sympathizing friend J. G. Bevan, much to my com- 
 fort and refreshment. To Devonshire House at five o'clock, where 
 the body of the widow Elliott was brought ; it was a large and 
 mixed meeting, and very unsettled. H. B. pretty soon stood up 
 to define the difference between a wise man and a fool. Special 
 West afterward preached salvation only by and through faith in 
 Christ, received by faith in the heart — it was a trying time. 
 
 " 23rd. — What a mercy to be favoured with a little ease of 
 spirit ! My soul longs for deliverance from this great city ; yet I 
 trust in the Lord's way and time. 0 ! for greater sanctification 
 
1800.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERUOOD. 
 
 415 
 
 of spirit and purity of heart, so as to be favoured to see God, to 
 know his will and do it. 
 
 " 2Ath. — The situation of afflicted Job opened last night on my 
 bed : how stripped was he of all his living, and reduced to lie on a 
 dunghill, or to sit among ashes. Surely in a spiritual sense he 
 could say, he had eaten ashes like bread. Soon after breakfast 
 Mary Pryor came from Hertford to see me. In a little sitting 
 she told me how much her thoughts were with me as she sat in 
 her week-day meeting yesterday, and therefore wanted to see me ; 
 that it had passed through her mind, and with much fear and 
 care she mentioned it : ' Thou art my servant ; I have chosen 
 thee in the furnace of affliction ; I will keep thee in all places, 
 whithersoever thou goest.' Soon after this opportunity I received 
 a letter from Uxbridge, with nearly the same expressions. I 
 dropped my tears, and was willing to say, so be it, good Lord. 
 
 " 27th. — I felt some openness in both meetings, especially that 
 in the morning, with the rich and gay, and felt relief. 
 
 " 29th. — To a meeting of ministers and elders called on my 
 account, where I opened my prospects of returning home. A 
 committee was appointed to prepare an endorsement for my cer- 
 tificate. It was a comfortable time — I found sympathizers. After 
 meeting I opened to a few Friends another weighty concern, 
 respecting visiting the king. 
 
 " 31st. — Set off in a post-chaise about eight o'clock, accompanied 
 by my friends Richard Chester and John Eliot, for Weymouth, 
 to endeavour to obtain an interview with the king. Got on our 
 way about sixty-six miles to Winchester : I felt quiet and resigned 
 on the way, and pretty cheerful. 
 
 " Eighth Month 1st. — Got to our journey's end, starting about 
 six o'clock, and arrived about sunset, seventy miles. My weak- 
 ness and great infirmity stared me full in the face, and it was 
 trying. I felt very unworthy this day, but endeavoured to look 
 forward. 
 
 " 2nd. — Waited until near eleven o'clock before anything 
 opened to make way for my concern. In the evening It. Chester 
 and J. Eliot walked on the esplanade and met with the king, and 
 requested for me an opportunity with him, his consort, &c, but 
 got no answer ; they were kindly noticed. During their absence 
 my mind was closely exercised, being left alone at the inn. Some- 
 time after they returned I walked to the pier-head, and looked 
 toward the sea, and deep and pensive were my thoughts respecting 
 this island and its inhabitants. 
 
416 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1800. 
 
 " Srd, First-day. — Endeavoured to put on strength, I hope, in 
 the Divine Arm : about eight o'clock, accompanied by my two 
 friends, I walked along the sea-shore, and saw the king with divers 
 of his officers, walking the esplanade. On their return we met 
 them, and I had a full opportunity to ease my mind. Returned 
 to the inn peaceful and easy as I could wish or desire ; and about 
 ten o'clock set off and rode this day about half-way back towards 
 London.'" 
 
 It will be proper to observe, that in the interview which his 
 companions had with one of the king's advisers, to whom they had 
 applied for permission to visit him, they were informed that it was 
 not likely he would consent ; alleging as a reason, his unwilling- 
 ness to see any strangers, in consequence of attempts which had 
 recently been made upon his life. He however suggested, that as 
 he regularly walked on the esplanade at a certain time in the day, 
 they might have an opportunity then, if they thought that would 
 answer. When they met, Thomas Scattergood was introduced to 
 the king as a much loved minister of the gospel from America, 
 who had been engaged in a religious visit to the Society of Friends 
 in England. Thomas then took off his hat, and said, "I have a 
 message from the Lord to thee, O king !" The king instantly un- 
 covered his head, also his attendants, and made a full stop at this 
 salutation, and listened with respectful attention to what Thomas 
 said. When he concluded, the king said to him, " I thank you, 1 ' 
 and instead of pursuing his walk, returned at once to his apart- 
 ment. 
 
 " 4th. — Dined at Egham near Staines. On entering the room 
 I saw a Bible lying on the table, and opened on the twenty-ninth 
 chapter of Isaiah, and felt encouraged in reading it, for my mind 
 has been closely exercised respecting another prospect which has 
 long been upon my mind. Got into London about six o'clock : 
 the last ten miles' stage into London was a trying one ; and it has 
 often been so on entering this place, but this exceeds all, from a 
 prospect of mortifying service opening and pressing very heavily 
 upon my mind. 
 
 " (jth. — Slept pretty well, and I feel cheerfully resigned, I hope, 
 to do what has opened as a religious duty. Met a number of 
 Friends at Gracechurch Street meeting-house, and laid before them 
 a prospect of going to the Royal Exchange. It was a solid, 
 uniting time, and I found sympathizers : none could see their way 
 to accompany me in the exercise, and as the way did not open in 
 their minds, I got eased of my burden, and left it. Attended 
 
1800.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 417 
 
 meeting, which was pretty large, and many young people present. 
 I began with some expressions which I heard Thomas Gawthrop 
 dropped on leaving Philadelphia : ' Master said, thou came poor 
 amongst them, be content to leave them so.' Tenderness appeared 
 in the meeting, and after it was over I was saluted by many, old 
 and young. Went to Tottenham to lodge. 
 
 " 7 th. — After breakfast I took my farewell of this very kind 
 family, (Thomas Home's,) and went to London to the Alien-office, 
 and after waiting some time, got my passport. Dined at John 
 Bevans' with a number of Friends, J. G. Be van and wife amongst 
 them, and after a tendering time with a pretty large circle, set off, 
 and accompanied by my kind friends Edward Janson and sister 
 Martha Home, in a post-chaise, and J. Bevans, wife and son, to 
 Uxbridge, where divers called in and took leave. 
 
 " 8th. — An opportunity with several Friends, and started about 
 half-past six o'clock, and breakfasted at A. Bellamy's, High 
 Wycombe, where dear George Dillwyn and wife met us. We had 
 another opportunity, and passed on through Oxford, and Chipping- 
 Norton to Shipston, and on the 9th as far as Newcastle [under- 
 line] and lodged. 
 
 " 10th. — Got to John Bludwick's, at Warrington, about two 
 o'clock, and to meeting with them at three, and about five set off, 
 and arrived at Liverpool a little after dark, where I met with 
 Joseph and Rachel Smith, and pretty soon after I got in, was 
 informed that P. Speakmau had sailed early in the morning of this 
 day, which gave me a little shock for a moment ; but felt easy in 
 a belief it is well. 
 
 " 11th. — Spent this morning at Robert Benson's, and in the 
 afternoon went on board S. Coffin's ship, and sat down with a 
 number of Friends in quiet. I told the company I felt easy to 
 go in this vessel and cast myself on Divine Providence ; that I had 
 been a prisoner for years in this land, and this ship seemed like 
 removing into a small compass, &c. 
 
 " 1 3th. — No prospect of sailing for several days, and I feel 
 content. 
 
 " 16th. — I feel at liberty to cross the great deep again, and to 
 look towards my native land. Surely I may say this morning, I 
 feel myself an unworthy creature ; yet 1 hope 1 desire to trust in 
 God for mercy, deliverance and salvation : grant it may be so, 
 and my soul yet more humbled and abased in truth. 
 
 " 17th, First-day. — Am yet at Liverpool. There is occasion 
 to lie humble, as with my mouth in the dust. Went to meeting 
 
 2k 
 
418 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. [1800. 
 
 and prayed for myself and others, after which I felt a little light- 
 ened. In the afternoon meeting I laboured, and bid farewell, and 
 felt more ease of spirit. It has been a hurrying time of late. 0 ! 
 for sustaining comfort to accompany on board of ship, and over 
 the sea. 1 hope my views are not great ; quiet and ease of mind, 
 and a sense of forgiveness of all my weakness, infirmities and 
 iniquity ; I desire to trust. 
 
 « ] 8th. — Better in health and spirits ; wrote to several friends, 
 and feel relieved and lightened. 
 
 " 19th. — A prospect of sailing was given out last night, and 
 my mind became more fully charged, and did not sleep so well as 
 nights past. After breakfast sat down in Eobert Benson's parlour, 
 with him, wife and children, J. and R. Smith, E. Janson, M. 
 Home, &c, when a quiet, and I trust, a solemnity covered us : 
 it was the testimony of R. B. it was so, and after we broke up, R. 
 S. also expressed the same. I wept in the opportunity, but felt 
 resigned to my allotment, believing the time was come to leave 
 this land, and expressed it. When we got down with my sea-stores, 
 the ship was getting out of the dock ; the pilot would not come 
 to, and so we were under the necessity of taking a boat and follow- 
 ing her a considerable distance, which was trying, as I wanted 
 some of my dear friends to have gone on board with me. Parted 
 with them at the pier-head, much as I parted from Friends in 
 New York, and accompanied by Robert Sutcliff of Sheffield, the 
 only cabin passenger, got safely on board about eleven o'clock, 
 and after sailing about thirty miles, anchored until night. 
 
 "20tfA. — Fair wind but light: my heart feels heavy at times, 
 not only in looking towards shore, but also to my native land : 
 great have been my conflicts since I left New York, to which 
 place I am now bound, if the Lord permit ; unto whose keeping 
 and care I crave ability to commit body, soul and spirit, as into 
 the hands of a merciful Creator, for there appears nothing to 
 recommend me, a poor unworthy servant, but mercy in Christ. 
 0 ! then let me settle down into it. O my God ! visit and revisit 
 my soul ; cast me not out of thy presence. I am weak, and have 
 been greatly loaded with infirmity. Look once more on my afflic- 
 tions and my pains, and forgive all my sins — keep my soul and 
 deliver me, let me not be ashamed and confounded ; for I dare 
 not do otherwise than put my trust in thee, and believe and hope 
 in thee. 
 
 " Two o'clock. — Fresh wind and fair, and a fine day ; not far 
 from Holyhead. 1 look at Wales with love, a part of the island 
 
1800.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 419 
 
 I have not visited in this long detention in this laud. 0 ! that 
 the seed may be visited and cared for. 
 
 " 22nd. — I have felt lively sensations on looking towards my 
 dear friends parted from, and to whom I am going. Even in these 
 few days' tossing, I may adopt David's language : ' Unless the 
 Lord had been my help, my soul had almost dwelt in silence. 
 When I said my foot slipped, thy mercy, 0 Lord ! held me up. 
 In the multitude of my thoughts within me, thy comforts delight 
 my soul.' 
 
 " 25th. — 0 ! how pleasant and how desirable is it to be con- 
 tinued under Divine favour, and to be acknowledged as one of the 
 Lord's servants. Had a refreshing night's sleep, and awoke with 
 a degree of courage and confidence in the Divine Arm. Thou 
 canst change the wilderness of great trial into a fruitful field, at 
 thy pleasure. I crave ability to wait on thee, my Creator and 
 Preserver. I opened the blessed book, and cast my eyes again on 
 the ninety-first Psalm ; ' I will say of the Lord, he is my refuge 
 and my fortress, my God, in him will I trust. 1 
 
 "27^. — A calm night, and now the wind has shifted to S. W., 
 and it is a very fine morning : my mind is calm, and I feel pretty 
 easy in my allotment. I trust I have been favoured to come off 
 in the right time : never did I see the way open before. It is the 
 Lord alone who can heal the broken in heart, and bind up their 
 wounds. 
 
 " 3lst, First-day. — A brisk wind this morning, but increased in 
 the afternoon, so as to require the topsails to be reefed. I sat on 
 deck most of the day, the sailors having put up a piece of a sail 
 on the quarter rail to break off the wind. When I saw the sailors 
 on the yards taking in sail, so exposed to danger, I thought surely 
 the watchful Eye that is over the sparrow is also over them to 
 preserve them ; the thought was sweet, and love flowed in my 
 heart towards them, although no opening for a meeting presented. 
 
 " Ninth Month \st. — The wind increased to a storm last night, 
 and between ten and twelve o'clock the ship lay to. The captain 
 ordered the dead lights put in, and it was well he did, as he after- 
 wards said ; for although the ship lay easy, yet the wind dying 
 away suddenly, and then shifting to an opposite point, she got 
 into the trough of the sea, and at times the waves beat against the 
 stern, and would have washed us in the cabin, if this precaution 
 had not been taken. Got under sail again in the morning, but 
 had a very heavy sea. 
 
 " 2nd. — There was a time during this long detention in Great 
 
 2 e 2 
 
420 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEKGOOD. 
 
 [1800. 
 
 Britain, when the waves of the sea appeared terrible and insur- 
 mountable ; so did tbe prospect of being captured at sea : now 
 they are very little to me, no fear, even tbe night before last, in 
 the greatest seeming trial, possessed my mind. 
 
 " 3rd.— I have been instructed this day by observing the 
 weather and outward elements on this wide sea, which surely 
 resembles my life of ups and downs. This morning, after I came 
 out of my little confined cabin, upon deck, the clouds were thick, 
 the wind ahead, and it was oppressively close. In a little time the 
 wind came more northerly, a pleasant, clear horizon appeared, 
 and a cool, refreshing air sprung up. 1 wait on Him who holdeth 
 the winds in his fists, to change my spiritual dispensation. 
 
 " 4th. — Spoke the ship Hose from Philadelphia for Liverpool, 
 twenty-one days out. I feel thankful that my mind is so easy 
 and quiet. 0 ! for a day of liberty to serve God without slavish 
 fear. I long for more of such a dispensation ; ' My life, if thou 
 preservest my life, thy sacrifice shall be.' I trust this is the 
 upright language of my tribulated soul ; desirous to say, ' Not 
 mine, but thy will, 0 God ! be done to-day, and to the end of my 
 days here, and for ever.' 
 
 " 6th. — Beating against the wind ; how much this resembles 
 my track through this vale of tears. ' Ye have need of patience 
 after ye have done the will of God, to receive the promise.' 
 
 " 8th. — It is a favour worthy of recording, that I feel so quiet 
 and resigned in my present allotment, and that I can sleep so well 
 in the night season, with little care upon me as to the voyage ; 
 thanks be rendered where they are due. 
 
 " \Sth. — About sunrise it began to blow; we soon had a very 
 heavy wind, and lay to. I enjoy a calm and easy mind in the 
 midst of a storm. 0 London ! London! what unutterable conflicts 
 have I passed through in walking thy streets ! Now, even when 
 the waves run high, and stormy winds rage, so as to make the sea 
 like a boiling pot, my spirit is at rest, and centred in the Creator 
 of sea and land. Bless his name, O my soul ! 
 
 "22nd. — Last evening before night, put the ship about, and 
 laid our course south, with very little west — the captain thought 
 it best to stand no further north : between seven and eight o'clock 
 this morning lay the ship to, and the hands went to fishing, we 
 being on the Banks. I remembered, I hope instructively and 
 encouragingly, this language ; ' God spared not his own Son, but 
 freely gave him up for us all. 1 0 ! the mystery of the redemption 
 of lost man ! Great is the mystery of the work of Truth. About 
 
1800.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 421 
 
 ten o'clock put the ship about on the starboard tack, and lay a 
 N. W. course by W., with a light wind. Our fresh cod-fish 
 dinner was very grateful. 
 
 " 24-th. — A calm covered my mind on awaking this morning, 
 and continues with a revival of faith and hope. A little after 
 twelve o'clock, as we were sitting at dinner, it suddenly began to 
 rain, the first mate sprang from his seat, saying, 'What's this? 1 — 
 he found the wind had suddenly died away, and a squall come up 
 from the north. The helmsman was confused, and put the helm 
 the wrong way : the hands were all at dinner, except the helmsman 
 and the cook. There was such a stir on deck as quickly sent up 
 the captain : I followed and was sensible of the difficulty, seeing 
 so much sail out ; however, by keeping the ship before the wind, 
 for the captain took the helm, the sailors got in sail, and by this 
 time the wind got round to N. E. Went under a close-reefed 
 topsail, foresail and main-topsail, and in a little time were sailing 
 at the rate of eight or nine knots. When the captain and mate 
 came down to finish their dinner, he remarked he had never been 
 caught so suddenly before, for when he left the deck there was no 
 such appearance. I felt thankful that my mind was so calm and 
 easy in this bustle : poor sailors, what a wet condition they were 
 in, and how cheerfully they went to their work. 
 
 " 28th, First-day. — I have been walking the deck ; and a num- 
 ber of my dear friends left behind have come nearly into remem- 
 brance. I have been thinking of holding a meeting with the ship's 
 company, both yesterday, and also upon my pillow, and since 
 getting up, but do not feel an opening. 
 
 " Tenth Month 3rd. — The wind continued brisk until between 
 eleven and twelve o'clock at night, and then suddenly came round 
 to N. W. There was a bustle on deck : I dressed and went up, 
 and found we had stood on within six or seven miles of Long 
 Island. It being moonlight we could see it plainly, and a sweet 
 smell like fresh hay regaled our senses : the sailors caught a wood- 
 pecker, blown off, no doubt, by the north-wester. We are now, 
 after breakfast, out of sight of Long Island; what joy was manifest 
 last night among the mariners on sight of land. I felt calm and 
 easy, and when at breakfast this morning, some were speaking of 
 the head-wind taking us, I felt resigned, and expressed that I felt 
 at home, and had been so since coming on this ship; and yet I 
 have been and am a tried man, and frequently have broken forth 
 in this confinement in the language of the Psalmist, the type of 
 the suffering Saviour — the type of the church under her trials 
 
422 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1800, 
 
 also : ' How long: wilt thou forget me, 0 Lord ! for ever ? how lone: 
 wilt thou hide thy face from me ? how long shall I take counsel in 
 my soul, having sorrow in my heart daily I how long shall mine 
 enemy be exalted over me 1 Consider and hear me, 0 Lord my 
 God : enlighten my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death — lest mine 
 enemy say, I have prevailed against him, and those that trouble 
 me, rejoice when I am moved. 1 Then let me trust in thy mercy, 
 that I may have yet to rejoice in thy salvation, 0 God ! We 
 have been beating all day opposite Black Point, wind right ahead. 
 
 " 4th. — About three o'clock this morning a pilot came on board, 
 and now we are beating up with a small head-wind. I am once 
 more in sight of my native land, and to all appearance delivered 
 from the dangers of the sea. I feel at the present moment a poor 
 unworthy creature, abashed and humbled, and yet I trust there is 
 a tribute of thanksgiving arises unto the Lord, for favours vouch- 
 safed on the mighty waters ; and it seems as if I must go home as 
 I left it, in an humbled condition : well, the Divine will be done, 
 and mine reduced : so be it. Got up to New York about nine 
 o'clock ; came to anchor, and soon after the captain ordered the 
 boat and took R. Sutcliffand myself ashore. On the wharf I was 
 met by my kind friend Isaac Collins, who had been watching for 
 me, and conducted me home with him, where I had an open recep- 
 tion, and before bed-time a sweet religious opportunity ; forty-seven 
 days on the voyage. 
 
 " oth, First-day. — To both meetings, and felt openness to labour 
 tenderly. My heart was broken, and mine eyes flowed with tears. 
 Friends appeared glad to see me, several of whom I visited in the 
 course of the day, and had a remarkable opportunity with J. M. 
 and daughter, at Isaac Collins'. 
 
 " 6th, Second-day. — Spent considerable of this day in getting 
 through the custom-house, &c. 
 
 " 7th. — After breakfast went on board ship with R. Sutcliff and 
 distributed some little presents amongst the sailors, and had also 
 an opportunity to relieve my mind. Dined at R. Pearsall's, and 
 soon after set off with Isaac Collins in his chaise, and got as far as 
 Rahway. 
 
 " 8th. — Divers Friends called in this morning, -and we had a re- 
 ligious opportunity ; then proceeded as far as Stonybrook, where I 
 met my father David Bacon, and son Joseph. 
 
 " 9th. — Left our carriage and horses at Bristol, went over to 
 Burlington and dined, and got home after night.'" 
 
1800.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 423 
 
 CHAPTER XX. 
 
 1800 1805. REMAINED MOSTLY AT HOME DURING THIS PERIOD 
 
 SEVERAL LETTERS WRITTEN TO FRIENDS IN ENGLAND, AND ALSO 
 LETTERS ADDRESSED TO HIMSELF FROM FRIENDS IN DIFFERENT PARTS. 
 
 After returning from England he remained mostly at his own 
 residence until 1801, not being called to any religious service out 
 of his native city, except an occasional visit to neighbouring Quar- 
 terly or other meetings. As he kept no memorandums during 
 this period, little further is known respecting him than what is 
 contained in the following extracts of letters, viz : 
 
 Addressed to a Friend in England. 
 
 " Philadelphia, Eleventh Month 5th, 1800. 
 
 " My dear Friend, 
 
 " I trust the time had come for me to leave 
 
 that land ; and though I left my beloved friends at the pier-head 
 with my heart full, yet the watery element was made easy to me ; 
 yes, more so than at one time I could believe. O ! what fears dwelt 
 on my mind at seasons on looking toward the ocean, with desires 
 to be going when there was no clearance : then it was terrible 
 indeed, as also when I thought of going as a prisoner to France, 
 in such a sifted, tried condition. If I could hardly bear up amongst 
 such feeling, sympathising friends as I had in England, 1 thought, 
 what should I do amongst strangers, to be a prisoner spiritually 
 and outwardly. All these cogitations and fears were removed ; 
 and though I had very humbling thoughts, and tossings of mind 
 at times during the voyage, it was as prosperous as I could wish 
 for. I landed at New York in forty-seven days from Liverpool, 
 
 and met a kind reception in that place I had no 
 
 opportunity in the way of meetings during the voyage ; I could not 
 get at it. I was very poor ; but before I left New York I went 
 on board ship and had a full opportunity with mates, sailors, cabin- 
 boys and cook, altogether, to much satisfaction, and I have cause 
 to believe they love me 
 
424 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1800. 
 
 " And now I may tell thee, that the desire of my heart continues 
 for thy preservation and advancement in the way everlasting. Put 
 on the breast-plate of faith, and follow the Captain of thy salvation 
 fully and perfectly. There is need to be girt about ; and if I mis- 
 take not, there will yet be more need. 0 ! it is a comfort to me 
 to believe, to be assured thou art not of the company, nor in the 
 least joined with those who are denying a crucified Saviour, and 
 setting up something else instead. Keep down in the quiet habi- 
 tation, and be willing to be baptised with the baptism of Christ, 
 that so thy feet may be shod with the preparation of the gospel of 
 peace, that thou may be able to travel through and over all the 
 rough ways and stony places, that may yet be cast up for the 
 proving of thy faith ; so wilt thou honour the Lord with thy 
 all, and in and through all, in being faithful to fulfil thy duty, not 
 only at home in thy own particular meeting, but to know when 
 to go forth in little services, and how to move and conduct in them. 
 The Lord be near to thee in all, and guide thee safely through all 
 that he may be pleased to permit thee to pass through, and give 
 thee at last to sit clown in the kingdom of peace and rest, and grant 
 that our spirits may unite in bliss. I am comforted in observing 
 one here and there of the female sex, under the polishing Hand, 
 that are as plants sprung up since I have been away, bright and 
 clear in testimony for the Truth, who have been moving about, 
 and still continue to move, I trust as clouds waiting to be filled by 
 him that seeth to the ends of the earth, and looketh under the 
 whole heaven, to make the weight for the wind, and bringeth it out 
 
 of his treasury 0! what a spectacle 1 have been among 
 
 you ; what an exercised creature — what lonely walks have I had 
 in fields and gardens ! Was ever any one so before I Well, when 
 I ponder and think, and it is very likely I have sometimes done 
 too much at this, and I am striving to mend in this respect ; I say, 
 sometimes I query, whether I could wish it should have been other- 
 wise, and hardly dare say I do. I am again amongst my own 
 people, and pray to be sustained by a few crumbs from the bounti- 
 ful table ; and may tell thee, my friend, that I have been able to 
 come at little further at times, both in meetings and out of them, 
 than to breathe forth this mournful language ; ' Have mercy on me, 
 O Lord ! and forgive all my weakness and infirmity, and blot out 
 all my iniquities, and favour with a place amongst thy sons and 
 daughters, for I feel myself an unworthy and unprofitable servant ; 
 and if all or any part of the deep sorrow I have passed through 
 may stand in thy sight, it is all but little, and no more than a debt 
 
1801.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 425 
 
 due.' I have no other view in thus writing, than that perhaps it 
 may give some relief, by a little vent to one who has oft seen me 
 enclosed as in the pit, when the poor exile has been hastening not 
 to die therein. What will be the amount of all this I I was deeply 
 plunged before I offered to visit the miserable in London — not for 
 days or weeks ; long was it on my mind. Long was I troubled in 
 walking London streets. The last exercise that I mentioned to 
 Friends, was peculiarly singular ; but I have felt quiet and easy 
 about it, and sometimes have thought, that were I in London, it 
 is so gone, that I should feel different. I love her inhabitants, 
 and have been ready to say within myself since I got home, and 
 thought and said so among you : Surely they are not the worst of 
 people, there is much good ; ' much that I love, and more that I 
 
 admire.'' Farewell, says one who prays thou may 
 
 be kept and preserved in and through all states, which wisdom 
 may see meet to permit, and remain thy affectionate friend, 
 
 " Thomas Scattergood." 
 
 The following is taken from a letter addressed to him, by his 
 friend Ann Crowley, dated 
 
 " Uxbridge, Eighth Month 13^, 1801. 
 
 " My beloved friend, Thomas Scattergood, 
 "As much time has elapsed since thy departure from this land, 
 it may seem rather unseasonable to remark the satisfaction and 
 comfort we experienced in hearing of thy safe arrival on thy native 
 shore, and that a portion of the blessed legacy given to the disciples 
 of old, was vouchsafed at the winding up of thy arduous labour. 
 Ah! my friend, I have not forgotten the many baptisms, the sore 
 conflicts, which attended thy deeply exercised mind, while engaged 
 in the Master's service on this side the Atlantic ; they are profit- 
 ably imprinted on my mind, and I trust, lessons of great instruc- 
 tion were learned by some of us, in reading thy example of silent 
 suffering with the seed of the kingdom. What signifies how large 
 a portion of suffering falls to our lot, while conflicting with the 
 clogs of humanity, if, through all, we are but made useful in the 
 furtherance of the work of the Lord in the hearts of his children ; 
 it is a blessed experience to know assuredly, the virtue and efficacy 
 of that baptism, which crucifles the will of the creature, nails it to 
 the cross, and reduces self, until it becomes of no reputation : here 
 the Lord alone is glorified, his excellent name exalted, and his 
 church edified. It is good for us frequently to know a being buried 
 
426 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1801. 
 
 with Christ in baptisms, in order that we may experience renewed 
 qualification to preach his resurrection and life. If, in the wisdom 
 of truth, it should be the lot of my endeared friend and father 
 in the church, to be again plunged into many tribulations, let 
 him keep in remembrance for his encouragement, that tribula- 
 tion worketh patience, and patience experience, and experience 
 hope, which maketh not ashamed ; because the love of God is shed 
 abroad in the heart. It is those that are willing to abide with 
 their spiritual feet fixed on the bottom of Jordan until the Lord 
 calls them forth, that are enabled to bring up stones of memorial 
 to his praise. Let us then unitedly thank God, in that he has 
 thought us worthy to suffer for his blessed cause of truth and 
 righteousness sake. I write not thus from feeling a redundancy of 
 good in ni} r heart, or that it is a time of feasting ; nay, verily, the 
 Lord only knoweth the many trials, discouragements, and mourn- 
 ful exercises, that attend my mind ; but I thought a cheering, 
 animating language seemed due to thy feeling spirit ; believing, 
 without any manner of doubt, that thy deep conflicts will redound 
 to the honour of God and thy own perfect purification ; so that if 
 true patience is suffered to have its perfect work, thou wilt most 
 assuredly have to adopt the language of an eminent apostle, near 
 the close of time, ' I have fought the good fight, I have kept the 
 faith, I have finished my course ; henceforth there is laid up for 
 me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, 
 will give me at that day. 1 I never could let go the hope, that thou 
 wouldest through all, be favoured to know thy bonds broken, and 
 liberty proclaimed to return in safety to thy near kindred after the 
 flesh, carrying sheaves of enriching peace with thee, which would 
 be so manifested to thy fellow-believers, that they would have no 
 room to doubt but thou had been employed in doing the Master's 
 will ; and my heart is made to rejoice in the persuasion that this 
 was the case, and now solid satisfaction is thy blessed enjoyment. 
 We have abundant cause to be thankful that our lot was cast 
 amongst tender care-takers : but O ! the want which I feel, of a 
 real sense of true gratitude of heart, which ought to ascend to the 
 Father and fountain of all good. As I believe thou art interested 
 in our welfare, I may inform thee, that although we often sit in 
 low places, experiencing the immortal spring of life to be exceed- 
 ingly deep, and little ability to draw water out of the well of salva- 
 tion ; yet such is the condescending goodness of a gracious God, 
 that he is pleased at seasons to own us by the fresh incomes of his 
 life-giving presence, which melts the heart into humble contrition, 
 
1801.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SC A.TTERGOOD. 
 
 427 
 
 so that we have been unitedly enabled to say, the Lord is still 
 remembering the very dust of Zion, and willing to satisfy all her 
 poor with bread. I have not been out with a certificate since we 
 parted with thee, but have attended some neighbouring Quarterly, 
 Monthly and other Meetings, accompanied mostly by our mutually 
 beloved friend John Hull, who I feel increasingly bound to, in the 
 covenant of love and life, believing he is deepening in the immortal 
 root of life. I feel much sympathy for him, knowing his baptisms 
 to be many ; but have no doubt, if he patiently abide under these 
 conflicts, his bonds will yet be broken, and he will be enabled to 
 come forth as gold seven times purified, fitted and prepared to 
 declare of the Lord's wonders experienced in the deeps. I am about 
 leaving home, once more to engage in the Master's service. O ! 
 the awfulness of such an engagement ; how does the prospect fre- 
 quently weigh down my spirit into fear and trembling, lest through 
 any degree of unwatchfulness the work of the Lord should be 
 marred. Beloved friend, let me beseech thee, when favoured to 
 approach the throne of grace, to put up thy secret petition, that 
 the blessing of preservation may be mine through all the remainder 
 of my pilgrimage; that so the Lord's name may be glorified, and 
 my peace established for ever. 11 
 
 " Philadelphia, Eleventh Month 29th, 1801. 
 
 " Thy letter, my beloved friend, came safely to hand a few days 
 ago, and as the ship Rose is to sail in a few days for London, I 
 was not easy to let slip the opportunity of telling thee so. 
 
 " I still feel interested in thy concerns, and felt a wish, when I 
 read thy lines, and frequently since, that thou mayst witness pre- 
 servation on the right ground ; and shall I add, let patience have 
 its perfect work. This is a great word for me in my present 
 emptied state to adopt, or recommend to another ; but I know 
 that we all have need of patience, even after doing all that we see 
 to be our duty, that we may receive the promise. Is it not enough 
 to wait day by day for the unfoldings of required duty and be 
 faithful. It is a great thing to be faithful, and manifest our alle- 
 giance even in the fire. There is many a pang of conflict to be 
 passed through, previous to going forth into a fresh field of labour. 
 The vision may be for an appointed time, and this must be 
 waited for : some by over anxiety, have, it is to be feared, even 
 dared to hasten, or strive to hasten. I am ready to say, why 
 write I thus ? I had little or nothing to make a beginning with, 
 and even this day, such has been my reduced state, that I was 
 
428 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1803. 
 
 thinking of closing my correspondence with ray friends on your 
 side, for a time, having so little to spare ; but truly I love numbers 
 in that land. Twelfth Month 3rd. — Thou hast manifested much 
 sympathy and love towards me on various occasions, and I often 
 remember it and thee. Didst thou ever see me much more 
 reduced, perplexed and troubled on every side, than in the tour 
 from Liverpool towards London, excepting the season previous to, 
 and about the time of receiving such mournful intelligence in 
 Ninth and Tenth Months, 1798? My faith, hope, confidence, 
 patience, and all that I once thought I was in possession of, was 
 tried to the very bottom and foundation. Surely, often then and 
 since, I have been ready to say, how has my foolishness appeared. 
 Lord extend thy mercy — I often begged for it. I feel willing to 
 turn back again with a mind possessed with earnest desires for thy 
 safe guidance through this vale of uncertainty, tears and sorrow ; 
 that thou mayst be favoured so to dwell with thy gift, as to 
 be enabled to get thy work done in the day time, by labouring to 
 keep the single eye. This will be thy preservation through all 
 storms and tempests ; this will show thee what state in life will be 
 most pleasing to thy heavenly Father, conducive to his honour, 
 and be most profitable to thyself ; so that in all thy getting, 
 thou mayst get wisdom and understanding in the law of life ; and 
 if I am favoured to keep the foundation, I shall yet have to rejoice 
 in thy prosperity.'" 
 
 From a letter written to him by Ann Crowley, the following is 
 extracted : 
 
 " Uxbridge, Tenth Month 29th, 1803. 
 
 " I humbly trust, it is in the renewings of that love, which 
 unites Christian travellers the world over, in the precious union of 
 gospel fellowship, that T feel once more influenced to salute my 
 endeared friend with an epistolary communication ; not with an 
 apprehension that I possess a mind fraught with goodly treasure, 
 but from a desire to evince that thou art still alive in the affec- 
 tionate remembrance of those who have, in days that are passed, 
 prized the privilege of thy instructive society, and esteemed it a 
 favour when enabled in any degree, to share by sympathy the 
 deep exercises permitted, in unfathomable wisdom, to attend thee, 
 while visiting the seed of the kingdom on this side of the Atlantic. 
 0 ! my beloved friend, I have often been humbled in spirit, when 
 favoured with ability to take a retrospective view of the heart- 
 
1803.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 429 
 
 tendering seasons we have mercifully been favoured [with] to- 
 gether, when in the liberty of the ever blessed Truth we have 
 communed of things that are excellent, hid with Christ in God, 
 and only revealed by the renewings of that Divine light, which 
 discovers the deep things that belong to the eternal well-being of 
 the immortal part. The fresh recollection of seasons, wherein we 
 were permitted to ascend the holy hill of Zioii in company, and 
 wait ton;ether at Wisdom's gate for the renewed unfolding of 
 heavenly counsel, seems to contrite my spirit, and enables to sub- 
 scribe to the truth of that ancient declaration ; ' The Lord is 
 good, and worthy to be had in everlasting remembrance.' Perhaps 
 I may safely venture to say, that no seasons have made more 
 profitable impression on my exercised mind, than those wherein I 
 was made sensible that thy faith and patience were deeply tried, 
 in order to prepare for fresh service in the great Master's house. 
 I have said in my heart, it is good to be afflicted ; for whom the 
 Lord loveth he chasteneth, and teacheth them by his fiery baptisms, 
 to place all confidence on his Arm of Omnipotency in the day of 
 battle : and as these are concerned to keep the word of his patience, 
 endeavouring to possess their minds in humble quiet, they can 
 feelingly say with Job ; ' He knoweth the way that I take, and 
 when he hath tried me I shall come forth as gold.' Ah ! my 
 beloved friend, may not a similar language to what was formerly 
 expressed, be still uttered in the camp of God's Israel ; ' Many 
 are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivereth out of 
 them all. 1 In the little ability which has been graciously afforded 
 mentally to visit thy deeply exercised spirit, it livingly arose in 
 my heart ; ' Behold ! I have refined thee, but not with silver, I 
 have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction ;' by trying dispen- 
 sations hath the Lord purified and sanctified the vessel, enabling 
 it to show forth his praise ; therefore, fear not dearly beloved 
 friend, though thou mayst still have, at seasons, to pass through 
 the valley of the shadow of death, and know a being baptized into 
 deep suffering for the seed's sake, for all these trials will ultimately 
 work together, to the deepening in the immortal root of life, and 
 qualifying for further usefulness in the dignified service thou art 
 undoubtedly called to. There are living witnesses who can 
 acknowledge, with a sense of gratitude, to the efficacy of that 
 power which prepared thee an instrument of great use in this 
 land ; not only by diffusing the truths of the everlasting gospel of 
 light and salvation, in the demonstration of the eternal Spirit, but 
 by a circumspect conduct, regulated by unmixed wisdom. What 
 
430 
 
 MISMOI15S OF THOMAS SCATTEKGOOD. 
 
 [1803. 
 
 preaching can more effectually set forth the excellency of saving 
 grace, or exalt its virtue, than a humble, patient, self-denying life I 
 Such preachers of righteousness, of which number, I verily believe 
 thou mayst be ranked, evince to carnal professors, that there is a 
 God who still ruleth in the hearts of the children of men. and if 
 yielded to, effects the great and glorious work of sanctification. 
 Without premeditation have I scribbled the above, which I hope 
 will be received with the same cordiality as thou heretofore accepted 
 my free conversation. 
 
 " Thy last kind testimonial of continued affectionate remem- 
 brance, came to hand, as thy letters have ever done, in a very 
 acceptable season, and tended much to my encouragement in 
 giving up to a weighty service I had long believed required of me, 
 even to pay a religious visit to all the meetings that constitute 
 London Quarterly Meeting ; a work thou wilt readily conclude, 
 arduous enough for a poor little stripling to encounter, amongst 
 the wise and great. But thanks be ascribed to Him, who is still 
 manifesting himself to be strength in weakness, riches in poverty, 
 and a present helper in every time of trial, for his unspeakable 
 mercy, in that he enabled secretly to utter the language, ' Return 
 unto thy rest, 0 my soul ! for the Lord hath dealt bountifully 
 with thee.' I had a kind, sympathizing companion in dear D. 
 Moline, through that momentous undertaking, and I humbly hope 
 this fresh act of dedication was accepted by the Divine Master, as 
 it has tended a little to break her bonds, and to the acceptable 
 enlargement of her gift. O ! how repugnant to human nature to 
 become a fool for Christ's and the gospel's sake ! May the Lord 
 so operate by his redeeming, purifying hand, as to enable each of 
 us in our several capacities to say in all things, ' Not my will, but 
 thine be done, 0 thou ever adorable Master ! ' I have lately 
 been spending a few weeks with my relations at Shillingford, 
 Reading, and Staines ; and though the visit was professedly in 
 the line of friendship, yet a large poi'tion of secret exercise, and 
 some public labour fell to my lot. It has been a time of trial, 
 both of faith and patience, in which I have found the necessity to 
 renew my covenant with a covenant-keeping God : there is much 
 cause administered in the present day of great degeneracy from 
 the purity of truth, for lamentation and mourning ; and may the 
 God of all grace enable his devoted servants to stand fast in their 
 allotments, patiently filling up their measure of suffering for the 
 precious seed's sake. 1 believe thou wilt be truly glad to hear, 
 that our mutually beloved friend T. H., continues growing in the 
 
1804.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 431 
 
 root of life, and has publicly avowed his allegiance to the King 
 immortal. He is a father amongst the few poor scattered sheep 
 hereaway. 0 ! that wisdom and strength may still be granted, to 
 enable him to keep his rank in righteousness." 
 
 The following are to Susannah Home : 
 
 " Philadelphia, Fifth Month 9th, 1804. 
 
 "Dear Friend, 
 
 "Thou may rest assured, that since the arrival 
 
 of thy last, and atao before that, thou hast often been the com- 
 panion of my mind, and under the sense also, that it follows thee 
 in all thy exercises and religious movements, with desires thou 
 may be preserved on that foundation that stands sure, faithfully 
 following thy heavenly Guide, to the finishing of all the work 
 allotted thee ; and that we may be happy enjoyers of that rest, 
 which is prepared for such as hold out unto the end. I feel, for 
 my part, like a vessel much laid by : great thou knowest was the 
 travail and exercise I had to wade through when amongst you, 
 and great was thy sympathy and care towards me. None perhaps 
 have beheld me in greater weakness, fear and trembling than thou. 
 I cannot forget the wormwood and the gall, and yet feel disposed 
 to believe I could not have done without it ; and have an humble 
 hope, that all my misgivings and want of faith and firmness, in 
 seasons of deepest trial and seeming desertion, will be blotted out 
 of the book. My little labours seem much confined to this place, 
 having very little openness to go from home, and I esteem it a 
 
 favour to have so comfortable a one They [his 
 
 partners in business] have agreed to take the labouring oar, and 
 set me at liberty, much to my satisfaction ; and I hope the 
 disposition of an old soldier who has been in many a warfare, 
 measurably prevails, even in a willingness to go forth anywhere, 
 at the word of command ; but may my soul ever be favoured with 
 this, and not attempt to uphold the ark unbidden. 
 
 " Thomas Scattergood." 
 
 In the same year : — 
 
 " I feel near regard towards thee in penning these lines, with 
 desires thou mayst continue watchful and faithful to the filling 
 up of the measure of appointed duty, that thou may grow in 
 grace and saving knowledge, and then doubtless thou wilt grow 
 in the gift committed to thy charge. I think I can say that the 
 
432 
 
 .MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SC ATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1804. 
 
 desire of my soul has been on my own account, from my little 
 beginning, that I might be preserved from being a light, windy, 
 or frothy minister ; but be favoured to wait for a commission 
 sealed ; though I know there are times when we must move from 
 very small impressions, and there needs great care in moving in 
 the dignified work of the gospel. It is waiting for, and renewedly 
 feeling, the touches of the live coal, that makes words reach to the 
 captive seed in others. 
 
 " Thomas Scattergood." 
 The following letters will doubtless be acceptable to the reader: 
 " Uxbridge, Sixth Month 20th, 1804. 
 
 " Beloved Friend, 
 
 " Having been renewedly favoured this morning, to feel a 
 revival of that love which reaches over sea and land, and makes 
 the disciples of Christ dear to each other, I seem stimulated to 
 embrace the present opportunity of convincing thee, that thou art 
 still preciously alive in the remembrance of thy friends on this 
 side tbe Atlantic. Perhaps I may, in much sincerity, venture to 
 say, that thy poor friend is one of the number, who, according to 
 the capacity received, feels thee near in the blessed covenant of 
 love and life ; believing thou art a chosen vessel of the Most 
 High, on whom the inscription of holiness unto the Lord, is 
 written in legible characters. O ! saith my spirit, that the 
 blessing of preservation may be mercifully granted through the 
 remaining rugged steps thou mayst have to tread in this proba- 
 tionary state, that so, by being enabled to keep the faith, and 
 fight the good fight under the banner of the Lamb, Christ Jesus, 
 a crown of ever-enduring peace may be thy happy portion, when 
 the shackles of mortality may be removed, and death swallowed 
 up in a glorious victory. It has afforded me much solid satisfac- 
 tion to hear, through various channels, that thou hast been 
 favoured to enjoy a pretty good share of health since returning to 
 thy native land, and appeared to possess a serenity of mind, which 
 the reward for obedience does not fail to afford. I have often had 
 to remember how many deep draughts of the wormwood and gall 
 thou hadst to drink while in our land, — how deeply were faith 
 and patience tried, yet through all the varied baptisms of the 
 living Word, the many descendings and fiery trials, which in 
 wisdom were permitted to overtake thee, thou hast abundant cause 
 to erect thy Ebenezer, and say, ' Hitherto hath the Lord helped;' 
 
1 804.] MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 433 
 
 yea, and I am renewed in the belief, that he will not fail to stretch 
 forth his omnipotent Arm of power to preserve in every dispensation 
 of his Providence. Have not many cups of sweet consolation been 
 handed to thee in secret, by Him who still delighteth to succour 
 his own flock, and strengthen for every good word and work I 
 Be of good cheer then, my endeared friend, for verily, according 
 to the promise, He that hath been the Alpha, will most assuredly 
 be the Omega, if we faithfully continue to manifest our allegiance 
 to Him, who is King of kings, by a circumspect walking in his 
 fear. Although I have not been favoured to receive any written 
 testimonial of thy continued affectionate regard since my last 
 communication, yet I am ready to indulge a hope I am not 
 wholly forgotten by my much beloved exercised brother, but that 
 his solicitude for my preservation is unabated ; and though con- 
 scious of not meriting this privilege, I dare not doubt possessing 
 it in some degree, believing our friendship to be founded on a basis 
 too permanent for the fluctuating things of time to shake, or the 
 changes of dispensation to weaken. No, surely ; I fully believe, 
 as our abiding continues to be in the living vine, and we are 
 favoured, through adorable mercy, to increase in the saving know- 
 ledge of redeeming love, our hearts will be more closely bound 
 together in the cementing virtue of gospel union, and secret inter- 
 cession will be made with the God of all grace, that his all- 
 powerful Arm of salvation may be vouchsafed, to keep in an 
 humble dependence, both in heights and in depths, that no gilded 
 bait or destroying weapon, prepared by the cruel adversary may 
 ever be able to exalt above measure, or sink the poor tossed mind 
 below an holy confidence in Him who never was foiled in battle, 
 and remains to be the ever victorious Captain of the soul's salva- 
 tion. I seem to be furnished with very little consoling, comforting 
 information ; having more often to sit down and lament over 
 my own weaknesses and failings, with those which are obvious 
 amongst a highly professing people, than to rejoice in the pros- 
 perity of Zion, and joy in beholding the enlargement of her 
 borders. Yet I humbly trust, though things of a trying nature 
 may be in our camp, and the pure life of religion at a very low 
 ebb, there are many preserved alive unto God, who have not 
 dared to bow the knee to Baal, or kiss his image ; but who are 
 faithfully bound to the law and the testimonies, counting not 
 their lives dearer to them than the blessed cause of truth and 
 righteousness. It seems to be a time of deep wading with such 
 exercised minds, because the beauty of Israel is much eclipsed, 
 
 2 F 
 
434 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOGD. 
 
 [1804. 
 
 and too few of her professed children are coming up to the solemn 
 feasts of the Lord with holy dignity. 0 ! when will an individual 
 reformation take place, that 'judgment may run down as waters, 
 and righteousness as a mighty stream; 1 that the kingdoms of 
 this world may indeed become the Lord's and his Christ's. 
 
 "Ann Crowley. 1 ' 
 
 "Portland, Eighth Month 9th, 1804. 
 
 " Dear Friend, 
 
 " As our friend Daniel Elliot is about leaving this place, I feel 
 as though I could not miss the opportunity of reviving the love 
 and nearness I think we have in past times felt toward each 
 other ; and at this time, as at many others, thou art brought very 
 near to me in a belief that many and great have been thy con- 
 flicts, as well as mine, since we saw each other. I may say, mine 
 have often been so great, that it has appeared there was but a step 
 between me and spiritual death, and that I should surely fall one 
 day or other by the hand of Saul ; and I have my fears that it 
 will yet be my case, for want of being sufficiently reduced to a 
 willingness to suffer with patience and resignation whatever may 
 be my lot. I have often thought of thee in my greatest conflicts, 
 believing thou art no stranger to deep baptisms, but doubtless 
 thine may be more on others' account, and mine on my own ; but 
 be that as it may, I think the enemy of all good often takes the 
 advantage at such times to cast out floods of discouragement, in 
 order, if possible, to swallow us up ; and sink we should, did not 
 our blessed Master take compassion on us, and reach out his 
 hand, as he did to Peter, when his faith failed him, and he was 
 about to sink. So that we have abundant cause to take courage 
 and press forward, remembering, as our day of trial is, so shall 
 our strength be. I write not to thee with a view of instructing, 
 but from a near fellow-feeling with thee, which I think my mind 
 has been dipped in this morning, and I crave thy prayers that 
 my faith fail not ; for it is often at a very low ebb, and many 
 fears encompass my feeble mind. With near love to thee and 
 thy dear wife, with which mine unites, I remain thy affectionate 
 friend, 
 
 " John Taber." 
 
 The following letter from his friend David Brooks, is dated 
 
 " Eighth Month loth, 1804. 
 " I have not forgotten you nor your kindness to me when my 
 
1805.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTKRGOOD. 
 
 435 
 
 lot was cast in your city : there is One only who knows what I 
 passed through there, I may say in a two-fold sense ; but I hope, 
 and have some cause to believe that I was not altogether without 
 companions. I do not wish to complain or murmur, for our afflic- 
 tions are but light when compared to the suffering of our blessed 
 Saviour, whose agony was so great, that sweat, as it were great 
 drops of blood, rolled from his sacred face. Dear friends, I often 
 think of you with great sweetness, and I feel an assurance that 
 you are going on your way mourning, as with your hands on your 
 loins, and passing through dark and lonesome places ; but we may 
 remember, there is no beast of prey to devour in the Lord's high- 
 way. I sometimes have faith to believe, that the Lord's candle 
 will be again lighted, and hope we shall be enabled to wait patiently 
 all his appointed time, for he that believeth maketh not haste ; and 
 he that runneth when he is not sent, will not be likely to profit 
 the people. A superficial ministry has a powerful tendency to 
 close up and stop the sweet living spring of true gospel ministry. 
 It is a great lesson to learn to bear trials properly as they arise, 
 and I am sometimes afraid of myself, I can bear so little with the 
 Christian fortitude which becomes a soldier of the Lamb. Dear 
 Friends, the distance of the way and the length of time, only 
 serve to strengthen the bond of that love which stands in the 
 power of an endless life, in which I nearly salute you, and bid you 
 farewell." 
 
 The following is taken from a letter written by him to Susannah 
 Horne : 
 
 " Philadelphia, Fifth Month 24th, 1805. 
 
 " There is a secret rejoicing accompanying my 
 
 mind, in hearing of thy industry to get forward in thy day's work. 
 It is a pleasant thing to look back and remember the willingness 
 wrought in the mind to labour in the morning. I feel it so, as 
 one to whom the afternoon is come ; there seems little to open 
 with me, except now and then to a Quarterly Meeting, but much 
 at home. Go on in fear and trembling still — expect to meet with 
 thy various trials : wait, I beseech thee, as one desirous thou 
 may be numbered amongst the true-born children — wait for the 
 renewed touches of the live coal ; wait for the seal and evidence : 
 this will make thy language drop as dew, to the consolation of the 
 mourners and tried burden-bearers, and thou wilt grow in thy 
 gift ; sound judgment will be experienced also to know what is 
 sealed or seasoned, where to deliver or scatter it, and also the time 
 
 2 f 2 
 
436 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEBGOOD. 
 
 [1805. 
 
 when ; so living without carefulness, in due time the Lord gives 
 a right issue." 
 
 The following is extracted from a letter from his friend John 
 Bevans, dated 
 
 " Plaistow, 1st of Second Month, 1805. 
 
 " Dj:ar Friend, 
 
 " Tt would have been very pleasant to me to have written to 
 thee before now, but feeling my mind often clothed with much 
 deep poverty, it seemed as though I could not, either profitably to 
 myself or to others, take up the pen. But from some little renewal 
 of that brotherly love which uniteth the Lord's children in that 
 life which is better felt than expressed, I can at this time salute 
 thee my beloved friend. Trying times have been the portion of 
 many brethren on this side the water since thou left us. Thyself 
 and others have had your perils by land and perils by water, 
 but ours have been by false brethren, who, by fair speeches and 
 great pretensions to liberality, have deceived and misled some in 
 many places. But I hope the firmness of Friends pretty generally 
 on this side the water and on yours, will in good measure put a 
 stop to this delusive spirit. These things have brought to my 
 mind the deep exercises thou wast often under whilst amongst us, 
 and particularly in our great city. I believe there was a cause, 
 which was not then altogether manifest, but has since burst upon 
 us as a gathered cloud ; and I fear not a few, more particularly 
 among our wise men, are carried away with it. At the same time, 
 it is no small consolation, that there are amongst us many faithful 
 brethren, and it is to be hoped that others have been stirred up to 
 try their foundations ; and to such we may hope it will ultimately 
 prove profitable. 
 
 " I had written the above a considerable time since, but feeling 
 again too much discouragement from a variety of causes, I could 
 not proceed. Thy last letter was very acceptable, and the recollec- 
 tion that I had not acknowledged the former, has been painful to 
 me ; yet it is not for want of an affectionate remembrance, but 
 writing is become more a task to me, and living in this retired 
 spot, I see and hear much less of our friends than we were wont 
 to do. William Jackson paid our meeting an acceptable visit a 
 short time since ; Ann Crowley has also been with us in the same 
 way. Thomas Colley has been much engaged amongst those not 
 of our Society for some time ; he was lately at Birmingham, where 
 he had several public meetings, to much satisfaction ; some of 
 
1805.] MEMOIRS OF THOMAS BCATTKRGOOD. 437 
 
 those meetings were held at dissenting meeting-houses in different 
 parts of the town, for their accommodation. Perhaps thou mayst 
 know that some of the disaffected amongst us have been very 
 active, and have published several pieces, greatly misrepresenting 
 the conduct of Society in the case of H. B. ; and also by mutila- 
 ting the writings of our ancient Friends, have made them to speak 
 a language they neither intended nor thought of. They have 
 likewise endeavoured to invalidate several parts of the Scriptures 
 of the Old and New Testaments. The above publications have 
 much tendency to turn the feet of the unwary out of the right 
 way, making the offence of the cross to cease, and the path wide 
 enough for the old corrupt man to walk safely in, without danger 
 of alarm, it being in their view sufficient to preserve a fair moral 
 conduct before men, without being shackled with the mistaken 
 notions of a new birth from above, and the necessity of an inward 
 and vital change, which the humble, self-denying Christian con- 
 siders essential to his eternal well-being:. Thev tell us our reason 
 is the primary gift of God, and able to guide us safely along, in 
 all that is necessary to salvation, rejecting the sacrifice and atone- 
 ment of Christ as absurd. Thus deluded and deceived, they 
 attempt to mislead and deceive others, and it is to be feared that 
 too many are readily catched in the snare. The account thou 
 hast given of thyself since thy return to thy own quiet habitation, 
 has been very pleasant to us ; and that thou hast had to enjoy 
 domestic comforts after much exercise, toil and labour. The 
 language of the prophet occurring, I shall insert it : ' The work 
 of righteousness shall be peace, and the effect of righteousness, 
 quietness and assurance for ever. And my people shall dwell in 
 a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting 
 places.' The application I leave to my dear friend ; I believe 
 this thou canst do from heartfelt experience. 
 
 " John Bevans." 
 
438 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1805. 
 
 CHAPTER XXI. 
 
 1805 1814. OCCUPIED DURING THE SUMMERS OF 1805 AND 1806 
 
 AT WEST-TOWN BOARDING SCHOOL PROPOSES AND ASSISTS IN THE 
 
 ESTABLISHMENT OF A SCHOOL FOR POOR CHILDREN ON THE LANCAS- 
 
 TERIAN SYSTEM EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS WRITTEN TO SUSANNAH 
 
 HORNE ACCOMPANIES S. HORNE TO THE YEARLT MEETINGS OF NEW 
 
 YORK AND RHODE ISLAND, AND VISITS SOME OF THE MEETINGS COM- 
 POSING THEM. 
 
 From an apprehension of religious duty, he spent the summers 
 of 1805 and 1806' at West-town boarding school, sometimes 
 assisting in teaching, as well as in the care of the pupils. He was 
 very fond of the society of children, and deeply interested in their 
 eternal welfare : he freely mingled with the pupils, and participated 
 frequently in their amusements, which gained their confidence and 
 affectionate regard, and enabled him to exercise an important and 
 valuable influence upon them. His religious counsel was also very 
 strengthening and encouraging to the teachers and others, who 
 found in him a true sympathizer in the arduous duties of their 
 important stations. A friend who resided at the Institution at 
 that period, speaking of his services there, remarks, that " he was 
 concerned to enter closely into the care, the exercises, and the trials 
 under which the care-takers were then wading ; and very useful 
 and beneficial were his labours, not only in their schools and private 
 collections, from which he was seldom missing, but in their religious 
 meetings also ; as many of those there in that day can testify, to 
 their great comfort. From my distinct remembrance of his gospel 
 labours, I then believed they were owned, and now at this day can 
 say, I believe they have been crowned with success in many in- 
 stances. He was greatly favoured and enlarged in testimony in their 
 religious meetings, many times to the tendering and contriting of 
 the minds of those present who were of susceptible feelings ; and 
 often was favoured in supplication with near access to the throne 
 of grace, to the comfort and bowing of every contrite soul. Ah ! 
 these opportunities cannot be forgotten. 1 ' 
 
 His interest in the institution continued to the time of his de- 
 
1806.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 439 
 
 cease. After returning from it, the last time in 1806, he addressed 
 a letter to the teachers through one of their number, from which 
 the following extracts are taken : 
 
 " The plan thou sent me met my approbation, and immediately 
 my thoughts were turned towards all the thoughtfully exercised 
 teachers ; and I said in my heart, go on precious servants as you 
 have begun, and doubtless you will prosper. Your station and 
 work is honourable, and no doubt remains on my mind, but that 
 you are watched over and cared for by the great Shepherd of Israel, 
 who said, ' feed my sheep. 1 This is your employ ; let your hands 
 be strong in the work, and resist all those discouragements, both 
 within and without, which at times, very likely, assail you. I am 
 not a stranger to your exercises, having been sensibly dipped with 
 you. Yes, you will believe me when I say my mind was exercised, 
 feelingly so, and plunged into most or all your trials, when with 
 you, and how preciously comfortable was the little fragment of my 
 pilgrimage there filled up. Many comfortable moments I enjoyed; 
 many pleasant prospects were opened respecting the rising of the 
 Church out of Babylon ; and I have, since that day, said in my 
 heart, 0 ! that there were many schools erected for children's 
 guarded education As I have told you, your work is honourable, 
 so I believe a precious reward awaits for giving up the prime of 
 your days to perform it. It is an easy thing in the sight of the 
 Lord, even sometimes of a sudden, to enrich for little acts of faith, 
 and labours of love. I frequently look at you with sweetness, and 
 send this little messenger, desiring it may prove, in some degree, 
 an encouragement to you all, on both sides of the house, to con- 
 tinue in the way of your known duty ; continuing to be, according 
 to present ability, — your affectionate and sympathising friend, 
 
 " Thomas Scattergood. 11 
 
 " First Month 6th, 1806." 
 
 From his labours at West-town, and the above letter, it will be 
 seen that he felt a lively concern for the religious, guarded educa- 
 tion of the youth of our Society, being fully aware of the important 
 influence such a course of instruction would exercise upon them in 
 after life. His interest in schools, and the course of education, 
 was not, however, confined to any particular class. He felt for all 
 descriptions of his fellow-men, and was ready to promote their 
 welfare in every right way. He was especially qualified to feel 
 for and sympathize with the poor, among whom he was a very 
 
440 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1806. 
 
 frequent visitor, whose wants he was enabled largely to relieve by 
 the assistance of his friends, who frequently sent him sums of 
 money to be appropriated for this purpose, at his discretion. His 
 visits among the poor, afforded him a good opportunity of observing 
 the idle habits and neglected education of their children, which he 
 saw led them into many immoral practices. Being much impressed 
 with the demoralizing influences attending the situation of this 
 class, he communicated his feelings to a number of Friends, and 
 proposed to them to unite in an effort to establish a school for such, 
 on the Lancasterian system, which was then just claiming atten- 
 tion. Having succeeded in interesting several in such an under- 
 taking, a meeting of Friends was called, in the Ninth Month, 1 807, 
 to consider the propriety of forming an association to carry out 
 their benevolent object. The plan was cordially approved, and in 
 the next month the association was duly organized, and was sub- 
 sequently chartered by the Supreme Court, under tbe name of 
 " The Association of Friends for the instruction of poor children." 
 It was found necessary, in a short time, to build a house for the 
 purpose of accommodating the large number of children who applied 
 for admission. Thomas Scattergood and another Friend gave the 
 association a lot for this purpose, and early in 1809 a building was 
 erected, in which the school was continued for nine years, affording 
 the blessing of moral and literary instruction to many destitute 
 children. In 1818, the education of the poor being adequately 
 provided for by law, the school was discontinued, and the funds of 
 the association allowed to accumulate for four years, when they 
 were appropriated for the instruction of poor coloured children, for 
 which object they continue to be very usefully applied. 
 
 The following are extracts from letters, addressed by him to his 
 friend Susannah Horne : 
 
 " 1806. — I have done but little at writing of late, and feel but 
 small ability, nevertheless my thoughts often waft over to you, 
 and I still feel interested in your welfare, though much as one on 
 whom the ends of the world are come. This thou knows was much 
 the case once, and what marvel, when it has been, and very likely 
 must be, the experience again of many in your land. Wherefore 
 do I see every man with his hands on his loins I &c. ; this is the 
 portion of Zion that dwells in the midst of Babylon ; and when 
 the dispensation is yet more fully known, there will be a rising 
 and shaking of the dry bones. I am glad thou remainest desirous 
 to be one of her exercised travailers ; go on and prosper, and fulfil 
 
1811.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 441 
 
 thy task, whilst strength of body and mind is vouchsafed ; and 
 thou wilt never have cause to repent thy enlistment into such a 
 work." 
 
 " Sixth Month 9 th, 1809. 
 
 Extract. — " Leaving the things that are behind, let us press 
 forward : 0 ! that the blessed Master may account us worthy to 
 be employed in his work during our few remaining days. As for 
 thee, thou seems to be going from one little service and journey to 
 another, much, I think, as I was when about thy age. I seem, at 
 least sometimes, like a vessel laid up in dock. Perhaps this may 
 be more thy state by and by, and if thou art upright and honest 
 in the present season, it will be no matter then. Though the body 
 has been much stationary, yet my mind is oft far off from it. My 
 exercise was not small when among you, in often mentally visiting 
 the continent, and beholding the distress began and coming more 
 upon nations and kingdoms; and I am still often abroad in mind. 
 Surely, 1 have said in my heart, the Lord has arisen, and is shaking 
 the foundations of the earth ; this I think was more like a promise 
 than otherwise, that the heavens and earth should be shaken, that 
 so ihat which could not be shaken might remain ; but how little is 
 this seen into by many. May we, dear friend, be washed from 
 every defilement, both of flesh and spirit ; and press after holiness 
 — press after a settled stable mind, in which the Divine will is 
 given up to, is the desire of thy friend, on his own account, and 
 also on account of thee, whose welfare is very near to him, and 
 who yet remains thy affectionate friend, 
 
 " Thomas Scattergood." 
 
 In the Fourth Month, 1811, he obtained the necessary certifi- 
 cates of unity with his prospect to pay a religious visit to the 
 Yearly Meetings of New York and Rhode Island, and some of the 
 meetings composing them. In this journey, he accompanied his 
 beloved friend Susannah Home, from England, [with her com- 
 panion Mary Allinson] who was then engaged in a religious 
 visit to this country. The first memorandum of this visit com- 
 mences at Lynn, and is as follows : 
 
 " Seventh Month 2\st, First-day. — Attended two meetings at 
 Lynn ; on the 23rd, a meeting at Salem, which was a comfortable 
 time : and on the 25th, had a meeting in the large Methodist house 
 at Boston, at four o'clock, which was satisfactory. 
 
 " 28th, First-day. Went to Salem meeting, where I was silent, 
 
442 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1811. 
 
 and it was a very low time with me. The afternoon meeting was 
 largely attended by people of other societies, and I was favoured 
 with enlargement toward them. 
 
 " 29th. — To Amesbury, to old Jacob Row ell's ; he is in his 
 eighty-eighth, and his wife in her eightieth year. Stopped and dined 
 at Newburyport, and as soon as I was out of the chaise, I turned 
 involuntarily down the street to view the ruins made by a late fire. 
 It appears to have consumed even to the water's edge, and some 
 of the wharfs did not escape, about two hundred and fifty houses 
 were burned. We sent for some of the inhabitants ; eight or ten 
 of whom came, and we proposed a meeting for to-morrow afternoon, 
 to which they readily consented, and the court-house was procured. 
 
 " 30th. — Amesbury meeting was small and a poor low time ; 
 after which proceeded to Newburyport, and had a very crowded 
 meeting, which was satisfactory — we were taken home by Ebenezer 
 Wheelwright to tea, where a number of the neighbours came in, 
 and it was an agreeable time. 
 
 " 31st. — To meeting at Seabrook : it was a remarkably warm 
 day, and the labour fell on me. Susannah Home was so overcome 
 with the heat as to take to her bed for a time, but afterwards she 
 took courage and rode in the afternoon eighteen miles, to B. 
 Folsom's, at Epping. 
 
 " Eighth Month 1st. — To meeting at Epping, where divers of 
 the neighbours came in, though it was a rainy morning, and it 
 proved a pretty open time. After dinner set off accompanied by 
 Eli Beede, and lodged at an inn about fifteen miles distant, where 
 we met with poor accommodations, but the kindness manifested 
 made it easy. 
 
 " 2nd. — Rode to Henniker, over a rough road, eighteen miles, 
 and lodged at Pelatiah Purington's, which was a comfortable rest- 
 ing-place. Had a satisfactory meeting, and a good opportunity 
 in the family. 
 
 " 4?th, First-day. — To the meeting held in the North House at 
 Weare : dined at W. D.'s, and before we set off had a tendering 
 opportunity, in which the old man was much affected. At four 
 o'clock went to meeting in the South House, about three miles off 
 — both of these meetings were laborious and pretty large. 
 
 » 5th.— After a pretty early breakfast, and a good opportunity 
 with this large, and in good degree well conducted family, where 
 there are hopeful children and careful j^rents, accompanied by 
 David Gove, we rode back to Concord. Stopped at R. B.'s, whose 
 husband is not a member ; she has seven miles to go to meeting ; 
 
1811.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 443 
 
 here we had a little opportunity, which I hope was to some profit. 
 Dined at Abel Houghton's, and at four o'clock went to a meeting 
 in the court-house : there were about twelve or fifteen members, 
 all women and children except two ; Susannah had a pretty re- 
 lieving good time. I felt like a sign to be gazed and wondered 
 at. We detained the little company of members after the others 
 were gone, and had a comfortable opportunity with them. 
 
 " 6th. — Went to Pittsfield, and it was a pensive time to me, 
 and nothing to do in the meeting ; being covered with a cloud of 
 exercise, and exceedingly empty and poor : I thought Susannah 
 had a pretty open time. After dinner rode to Gilmantown — put 
 up at E. H.'s. This Friend and his wife came into Society about 
 sixteen years ago, and since there has been a gathering to them 
 of others convinced, and some Friends who moved from other 
 places. When we were within a few miles of this place, our 
 guide proposed beginning to invite to a meeting to be held to- 
 morrow, but I felt an entire stop in my mind, and on mentioning 
 it to Susannah we freely agreed to go on to a Friend's house, 
 and wait there to see what would be best. 
 
 " 7th. — My mind was much exercised after getting up, and I 
 walked out pensively before breakfast, and when we sat down to 
 eat was engaged in supplication for our little band, and all left 
 behind — for this family, and for the enlargement of Zion's borders; 
 and felt more easy after it. Yesterday afternoon I thought we 
 were going to a Friend's house which would be a resting-place, — 
 and so it proves, and we need it. After breakfast took a lonely 
 walk, and enjoyed the beautiful and extensive prospect which it 
 afforded. Sat down in inward retirement afterwards, when the 
 situation of some of the Lord's exercised prophets came into 
 remembrance ; such as Elijah and others, who wandered about in 
 desolate places ; as also the temptation of the greatest of all, even 
 the Lord Jesus himself, in the wilderness; and I strove in his 
 name to offer up a petition for the blessing of preservation, 
 through and over these besetments, which so cleave to me in this 
 my pilgrimage state. 
 
 " 8th.— To a pretty large meeting, made up of the few Friends 
 hereaway, and others. It was laborious, and the service fell pretty 
 much on me : we stopped Friends afterward, and Susannah was 
 favoured measurably to get relief. 
 
 " 9th. — Accompanied by our friend E. Hoyt, we rode to Sand- 
 wich, about thirty-one miles, to Cyrus Beedes. It was a delight- 
 ful hilly country, and a good road. 
 
444 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 " 10th. — To a meeting about seven miles further, held at 
 Solomon Hoyt's. This was a time of favour and encouragement : 
 dined at John Folsom's, and afterwards had a very satisfactory 
 opportunity with the family. 
 
 " llth, First-day. — After breakfast Benjamin Scribner came 
 in ; he was much broken on meeting with me, and continued in 
 this tender condition some time. Cyrus Beede related to me the 
 following circumstance : when I was here before, a man who lived 
 at some distance, came into the meeting, which was then held at 
 Benjamin Scribners, and endeavoured to get his brother, Aaron 
 Beede, to follow him out ; but upon every attempt Aaron 
 motioned for him to sit down, and at last prevailed on him so to 
 do, and he staid the meeting out. In the course of the commu- 
 nication, mention was made of the grievousness of the sin of 
 injuring our neighbours, and that such as did so would be met 
 with sooner or later. This man, after getting home, which was 
 immediately after meeting, went to one of his neighbours, and 
 told him that he had injured one of his oxen, and hid him in the 
 woods, and offered to make him restitution for the same. It was 
 not known what he wanted with Aaron Beede when he came to 
 get him out of meeting. The house at Sandwich could not con- 
 tain the people who came to meeting. This proved a tendering 
 time; and we were both pretty largely engaged therein. After 
 meeting, Samuel, son of Benjamin Scribner, was introduced to me 
 as I came out of the door ; his eyes overflowed on my saying a few 
 words to him. I was also introduced to several after meeting, 
 who remembered me when I was here twenty-seven years ago. 
 
 " On being informed that the people who met in a large house 
 not far distant would not come to our meeting, some Friends 
 went and proposed for them to consider whether they would come 
 in the afternoon to our meeting, if they thought there would be 
 room, or give me an opportunity with them in their own house: 
 they thought the latter would be best, viz : for us to come to their 
 house. We went, and I got relief thereby ; my friend Susannah 
 Horne did not feel much of this concern, yet bore me company. 
 
 " 12th. — Set off about eight o'clock, accompanied by Nathan 
 Beede, to Wolf borough, and got to Joseph Varney's. Paul 
 Bunker met us here ; he went on yesterday afternoon and 
 appointed a meeting in this house at three o'clock. In this meet- 
 ing Susannah had all the labour : we stopped the little company 
 of Friends afterwards, and it was a tendering time, as also next 
 morning with this family, on parting. 
 
1811.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 445 
 
 " \Uh. — Eeached the Monthly Meeting at Middleburg. and 
 then to Rochester and lodged. 
 
 " \5th. — To select Monthly Meeting at Berwick, fifteen miles. 
 This was a small meeting, but a time of some comfort and 
 encouragement. 
 
 " l§th. — Very low and under discouragement this morning. 
 Trust thou in God, O my soul ! I hope yet to praise him. We 
 attended the Monthly Meeting in this place, and found things 
 low. Joseph Savage spoke to me after meeting ; he was a captain 
 in the artillery in the time of the war, and quartered at Burlington: 
 he appears measurably convinced of Friends' principles. 
 
 " 17th. — To William Brown's near Dover, and on the 18th, 
 First-day, attended their meeting. It was very large, though 
 no liberty was given to invite the neighbours. We learn that 
 there is much division and unsettlement in this place ; no priest 
 among them at present, and therefore no meeting. It proved a 
 pretty open time, and this large assembly was recommended to 
 the Lord Jesus Christ, the everlasting Teacher and High Priest. 
 This has been a day of exercise to me on various accounts, but I 
 trust profitable. 
 
 " 19th. — Staid at William Brown's until about eleven o'clock, 
 and then I rode with him to Rochester. 
 
 " 20th.— Had a favoured meeting, appointed at this place, and 
 in the afternoon went on toward Berwick again. I lay down in 
 sorrow, in consequence of not keeping the girdle of truth girt 
 close enough. Ah ! what a little deviation affects a mind that is 
 tender. The cutting off but a small piece of Saul's garment by 
 David, when he was in his power, made his heart smite him, and 
 so hath mine, and I begged pardon almost immediately, and yet 
 I feared I should be set aside for a time for this. 0 my God 
 and Saviour ! I have covenanted to serve thee all my days — 
 preserve my feet from falling. 
 
 "21stf. — Meeting of ministers and elders, and to my admiration 
 I was exercised in it in the line of ministry. Ah ! here was no 
 room for exaltation, neither on looking into myself, nor over tho 
 flock ; there is yet bitterness in my cup this evening. 
 
 " 22nd. — To a large congregation of Friends and others, assem- 
 bled at Quarterly Meeting, and we were pretty largely engaged 
 therein ; it appeared to be a solid time for the most part. We sat 
 from eleven to near five o'clock, and at the close of this great 
 day's labour I felt comfortable and thankful. 
 
 " 24<th. — To Windham Monthly Meeting ; where we had a 
 good time in the fust meeting. 
 
446 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1811. 
 
 " 25tk, First-day. — To Falmouth, and 1 was shut up in silent 
 exercise : Susannah relieved her mind, and I was glad of it. 
 After meeting stopped at Stephen Monall's, and visited his sick 
 wife in her chamber. When I was in this land before, I had a 
 remarkable opening at two different times, as I sat in this meeting- 
 house. One was to go directly back to Boston, and then take 
 such meetings as David Sands and I had left on our way hither, 
 and also the Monthly Meetings, and amongst the places was 
 Sandwich, then a wilderness ; all which was accomplished to my 
 great peace and comfort, for I got through the prospect that 
 opened, and returned to Falmouth in one month, and attended 
 the Quarterly Meeting. While sitting in that, I had an opening 
 of the way home very clearly, even to a day, and my soul, with 
 thankfulness, remembers the favour whilst penning this note. 
 Now I am shut up — there are great changes in twenty-seven 
 years, and no virtue in meeting-houses I find. Dined at John 
 Winslow's, and he and wife went with us to Portland, to an 
 afternoon meeting, where was a mixed company, and very un- 
 settled. Susannah had but an exercising time, and I was quite 
 shut up. 
 
 " 26th. — We got into Joseph Douglass 1 at Durham before night. 
 
 " 27th. — After an opportunity with two widows and their 
 children, attended the meeting at Durham, which was large, and 
 an open time. 
 
 " 28th. — To Amos Davis 1 , and put up before meeting, which 
 was held in a school-house, an awkward place : Susannah Horne 
 had all the labour. I felt for her, and for this very little company 
 of Friends, but there was no food in my barn, nor wine in my 
 press. Proceeded on our journey and lodged at Joseph Samson's. 
 This Friend, it appears, was a soldier in the revolution, and 
 settled here twenty-seven years ago. The two first years he came 
 and cut down a few trees, burnt the brush and upper limbs, and 
 planted a little corn, without the use of plough or harrow, for he 
 had neither ox nor horse for some time : he then brought his wife, 
 after raising a small habitation for her, and had to carry a bushel 
 of corn eight or ten miles to mill on his shoulder, and for seven 
 years had not above one dollar in possession ; now he has a 
 pretty large habitation. 
 
 " 29th. — To meeting at Leeds, and put up our horses near the 
 meeting-house, at J. W.'s, on a remarkably high hill, from which 
 there is an extensive prospect. This was a good time, and after 
 the meeting, went back to J. W.'s and dined; with this family 
 
1811.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 447 
 
 and some others we had a satisfactory opportunity before we 
 parted. 
 
 " 30th. — This morning we paid a visit to two ancient Baptists, 
 living in a small adjoining house, and after I had delivered what 
 was on my mind, the old man preached us a little sermon. The 
 meeting was a good one, although small. After dinner, and a com- 
 fortable opportunity with the large family where we dined, we 
 took our departure again, and rode fourteen miles. About half 
 this distance we ascended a high hill, from the top of which 
 Augusta, on the Kennebeck river, opened to our view, with the 
 land on the other side — a very delightful prospect indeed; nothing 
 have I seen in this journey, that came nearer, in my view, than 
 this, to some of the beautiful spots in England. We got to our 
 friend S. W.'s, at Sidney, about dark, and met a kind reception. 
 
 " 3lst. — To meeting, which was held in a comfortable house, and 
 proved an open, good time ; we stepped in at the nearest house 
 and had a tendering time with D. P., wife and children, and after 
 dinner proceeded to Belgrave. 
 
 '■'Ninth Month Jst, First-day. — In the morning returned to W. 
 D/s before meeting time ; this industrious, goodly Friend fitted up 
 his house with benches to pretty good advantage, and we were 
 favoured in a large meeting : a motherly old woman came to me 
 after it broke up, and inquired after David Sands, saying, with the 
 tears running down as she spoke, ' Ah ! he was the first that offered 
 up public prayer for us in this remote country.' After dinner we 
 proceeded to Fairfield, about twelve or fourteen miles. This seemed 
 to be the roughest ride we have experienced. In one or two 
 instances our guide endeavoured to hold up our carriages to prevent 
 them from overturning. 
 
 " 2nd. — To meeting in a comfortable meeting-house, which I 
 conclude has been the most enlarged meeting we have had since 
 we have been together. Marvellous it was to ine, to think of 
 being here, when I looked back and remembered being at Vassal- 
 borough years ago, when nothing but trees and rocks were to be 
 seen in these parts, and now a large and open meeting. We had 
 some satisfactory conversation with a serious professor who re- 
 quested it. 
 
 " 3rd. — Set off about eight o'clock this morning, after a religious 
 opportunity, and rode about nineteen miles to Moses Sleeper's, at 
 Vassalborough, about two miles beyond the meeting-house. This 
 Friend was a soldier in the American war, and being convinced, 
 came amongst Friends a little before David Sands and I visited 
 
us 
 
 MEMOIRS Of THOMAS SCATl'ERGOOD. 
 
 [1811. 
 
 this neighbourhood. I remember well the visit David and I paid 
 him and wife, then lately married ; he had cleared about half an 
 acre of land and built a small lojr house. 
 
 " Uh. — To select meeting— it was not large, but ended, I thought, 
 profitably and comfortable. I took Susannah Home and M. Allin- 
 son in our chaise to it, about two miles. On our way home, when 
 within about half a mile of Moses Sleeper's, the horse suddenly 
 took fright, and we appeared to have a narrow escape from broken 
 limbs, or death itself ; thanks be rendered where due. 
 
 " 5th. — To Quarterly Meeting, which was large ; and I thought 
 Susannah Home was much favoured : the business was conducted 
 with condescension, and on the whole it was a satisfactory time ; 
 we had the company of divers Friends in the evening, and a re- 
 ligious opportunity, 
 
 " 6th. — To Haarlem meeting, on the far side of the Pond, 
 twelve miles distant, accompanied by Moses Sleeper ; the house is 
 not quite finished, but pretty well fitted with benches, and we were 
 favoured with a large meeting, to my surprise. I thought many 
 goodly ones, both Friends and others, were there : the labour of 
 this day has fallen on me, and it was a memorable day to me, both 
 before and in the meeting. We went in the afternoon to Moses 
 Dow's and lodged, near the Pond meeting-house, about five miles 
 from Moses Sleeper's. 
 
 " 7th. — To the Pond meeting, which was large. Susannah Home 
 spoke first, and had a favoured time, and indeed it was a remarkable 
 meeting ; there were two appearances from professors — the first 
 short and the other long, but we thought best to bear with them, 
 and hope the meeting ended well. We put up in a little village ; 
 and I am in admiration at the increase of the country. 
 
 "&th. — Went to Kennebeck meeting, which proved a sweet 
 parting time ; Susannah Horne opened it in supplication, which I 
 felt not only on the way to meeting, but soon after sitting down, 
 and therefore could feelingly unite in it, and trust encouragement 
 and strength were administered to us by the great and good Shep- 
 herd of Israel. We rode in the afternoon seventeen miles, to 
 George Randall's, and called by the way to see a man, by the 
 name of Gitty, who told me he is one hundred and twenty-two 
 years old. 
 
 "9^. — Attended an appointed meeting in an unfinished Metho- 
 dist meeting-house. It was the day of general muster, and but 
 few came besides George Randall's family and one more, but it 
 proved a very solemn, sweet opportunity — the service lay with 
 
1811.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OP THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 449 
 
 Susannah Home pretty much, and I felt content. Low and poor 
 this afternoon, anxiously concerned rightly to see my way in 
 further movements. 
 
 " \ 0tk. — To Samuel Tobey's, at Bristol, about thirty-three 
 miles : part of the ride to-day was through a wilderness, but in 
 other parts there were remarkably good houses. We stopped at 
 Nobleborough and dined : here we met with uncommon accommo- 
 dations ; the house being a very neat one, and the furniture in 
 accordance with it. 
 
 " llth. — To meeting about two miles distant : the house is 
 opposite to Broad Cove. The company was not large, and Susannah 
 Horne had all the labour. I was very poor. 
 
 " 1 2th. — Set off early, passed through Nobleborough and dined 
 at Wiscasset, a seaport, which appears to be a thriving place. 
 We lodged at a village called Brunswick ; this appears to be 
 another thriving place, and but lately cut out of the woods ; they 
 have already a pretty large college, a president's house and chapel, 
 on a very beautiful level. 
 
 u 13th. — Got a pretty early breakfast and proceeded to Port- 
 land ; found some difficulty when we came to North Yarmouth 
 bridge, and had to be ferried over the river. 
 
 " 14th. — A night of conflict when awake ; I seem broken upas 
 to moving on, and 0 ! how I am veiled — I cannot go forth out 
 of prison. I have been thinking of the prophet's expressions, 
 or the apostle quoting him, respecting our blessed Lord and 
 Saviour : 'In his humiliation his judgment was taken away, and 
 who can declare his generation ; for his life was taken from the 
 earth.'' 0 ! that I might hold the mystery of faith in a more 
 pure conscience ; then may my soul hope for deeper and more 
 lasting instruction by what is permitted to befal me. 
 
 " 15th, First-day. — Very close searching of heart upon my bed 
 this morning, and feel a little more peaceful and quiet : what need 
 of patience and resignation to wait the Lord's time, which cannot 
 be hastened. I passed through both the meetings in silent conflict, 
 and Susannah Horne also. 
 
 " 16^, Second-day. — Susannah Horne has her mind turned to- 
 wards a little company on the Cape opposite this place [Portland]. 
 I am very blind and cannot help it. 
 
 " 17th. — Resigned, I trust this morning, into the arms of Christ, 
 for protection and further help, who can anoint mine eye to see 
 how to move, and what to do. Lord, I would most willingly re- 
 sign my state, present and future, to thy disposal. I have been 
 
 2 G 
 
450 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1811. 
 
 greatly distressed in this place. I hear that there is great pro- 
 fession of religion, and a great variety in this little town ; but ah ! 
 the living, eternal Truth is but one ; the Lord, he is one, and his 
 name one ; bow then, unto him, 0 my soul ! and serve him the 
 remainder of thy days here on earth. Before we set off to attend 
 the meeting, held at Nathaniel Dyer's, on Cape Elizabeth, we 
 sat down with S. H. and family, and by this means my mind was 
 greatly relieved, and we parted in much brokenness and tenderness 
 on the part of some. Left my companion to see after mending 
 the chaise, and R. Horton took me in his. This has been an en- 
 couraging meeting, and I have a hope there will be an increase 
 hereaway. We called by the way at W. F.'s, who lately came 
 into Society. His aged parents live with him, and this dear old 
 man was tendered, both in meeting, and now in a sitting with the 
 family ; the case of good old Simeon being treated on : he appears 
 to love Friends and their company. Parted tenderly from the 
 family and reached Calvin Stuart's before night. A great change 
 in my feelings, but feel the effects of so deep a plunge ; surely I 
 may say with David, ' My heart and my flesh also fainted in the 
 hour of conflict.' 
 
 " 1 8th. — Susannah Horne had all the public labour in the meeting 
 held to-day. Soon after it broke up my companion arrived, accom- 
 panied by Edward Cobb, who continued with us to Kennebeck. 
 
 " 19th, Fifth-day. — To Paul Rogers 1 at Berwick, where we had 
 a meeting, made up chiefly of Friends. Dear Susannah had an 
 open, enlarged time. It was a season of light, comfort and en- 
 couragement to me : I remembered the remarkable tendering time 
 we had in this house when with David Sands ; how exceedingly I 
 was broken into tears, and which continued with me on the road ; 
 how all my prospects closed up after getting into this house, so 
 that David Sands had to wait for me until morning ; the many 
 baptisms I then passed through in this eastern country, and also 
 how marvellously my way opened to go home, and the sweet peace 
 I enjoyed for giving up to the service, together with prospects, con- 
 flicts and exercises endured since, in Carolina and England, and 
 now of late continued. I fell prostrate in humble acknowledgment 
 to the great Author of all good, thanked him for mercy and de- 
 liverances past, and supplicated with brokenness of heart for the 
 continuation of support in all the future : it was a day to be 
 recorded, of release and relief. After dinner we had a remarkable 
 opportunity with the family and two other Friends, and parted in 
 great nearness, and accompanied by P. R., proceeded to William 
 Brown's, at Dover. 
 
1811.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 451 
 
 " 20th. — To a meeting at Dover, appointed for Friends only, 
 which was an open satisfactory time. Dined at M. Osborn's, and 
 then rode to Seabrook, twenty-two miles. 
 
 " 21st. — After breakfast sat down with this family and had a 
 solid time — the labour fell on me. I felt engaged to supplicate, 
 and was very peaceful and easy on the way to Salem, thirty-two 
 miles ; where we arrived about the fourth hour, and put up at our 
 kind friends, Matthew and Betsy Purington's. 
 
 " 22nd, First-day. — To Salem meeting, both morning and 
 afternoon : in the first I had a pretty relieving satisfactory time. 
 I was favoured, I thought, in the afternoon, both in testimony and 
 supplication. We drank tea at A. Chase's. 
 
 " 23rd, Second-day. — We rode to Boston, accompanied by 
 William Brown, Jun., and Betsy Purington. Put up at John 
 Fry's, near the meeting-house — an old man about eighty, who 
 lives in an ancient habitation. He received us kindly, and we had 
 a parting opportunity with him and his family. 
 
 " 26th. — To Smithfield Monthly Meeting, which was a satis- 
 factory time ; I had a sweet opportunity after a solid pause in the 
 close of the meeting for business. We dined at Walter Allen's, 
 and then moved on about four miles, to B>. Southwick's, and lodged. 
 
 " 27th. — To Uxbridge Monthly Meeting, held at North Bridge; 
 silent suffering and exercise were my portion throughout. 
 
 " 28th. — To Uxbridge, where we had a satisfactory time, and 
 in the evening went to Providence with our kind friends, Obadiah 
 Brown and wife. 
 
 " 29th, First-day. — To meeting at Providence, morning and 
 afternoon. 
 
 " 30th. — To Greenwich Monthly Meeting. This was a remark- 
 able meeting throughout ; they looked and felt like Friends, and 
 conducted the business with weight. We had a very sweet oppor- 
 tunity with a young man, who was invited into the meeting ; 
 just at the close of the business, on the men's side of the house. I 
 told Friends, that if the women had done theirs, it would be 
 pleasant to have the shutters opened. They were, and we both 
 had a relieving time ; Susannah Home in testimony, and I in sup- 
 plication, and the meeting closed sweetly. After visiting a sick 
 Friend returned back to Obadiah Brown's. 
 
 " Tenth Month 1st, Third-day. — A meeting is appointed at six 
 o'clock this evening for the inhabitants of Providence. Dined at 
 Moses Brown's : I rode with him in his chaise, and when we came 
 in sight of his house, my mind was affected in remembrance of 
 
 2 g 2 
 
452 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1811. 
 
 past occurrences. 0 ! how marvellous are the changes to be met 
 with — yesterday I was greatly favoured, was light and easy after 
 so good a meeting ; this afternoon the sense and weight of death 
 and darkness overspread. I walked out and could have fallen 
 prostrate on the earth, if it would have been of any avail. Went 
 to the evening meeting low and tried ; here my female companion 
 had a singular time, and near the close I ventured to express a 
 little of what impressed my mind, and felt more easy. 
 
 " 2nd. — To a meeting appointed at Smithfield. I rode with 
 Moses Brown : it was a small meeting, and a low time in the be- 
 ginning ; and for most of the time I thought there was no labour 
 for me ; but a little arose, and I expressed it, and felt relief. 
 Dear Susannah followed ; more light, life and comfort sprang up, 
 and under a sense of it my soul bowed in thankfulness, and had, 
 before the close, to acknowledge it in prayer : had a sweet ride 
 back to Providence. How different the feelings of my exercised 
 mind, to what they were most of yesterday. 
 
 " 3rd, Fifth-day. — After breakfast, had an opportunity with 
 Obadiah Brown and family, which was a tendering one ; we went 
 to Cumberland meeting, eleven miles : this little company appear 
 to be most of them convinced ones. Divers serious people dined 
 with us at D. Metcalf's, near the meeting-house. After which we 
 went to Samuel Smith's, twelve miles, and lodged, accompanied 
 by Obadiah Brown. 
 
 " 4th. — To Mendon meeting, three miles. It was long in 
 gathering, and rather trying, but closed solidly — Susannah Home 
 appeared in supplication. In the afternoon rode to Worcester, 
 eighteen miles, after an opportunity with the family we dined with. 
 
 " 6th, First-day. — To Leicester meeting, which was pretty 
 satisfactory : dined at P. Earle's, after which had an opportunity. 
 Set off accompanied by Obadiah Brown, and got lost, but after 
 riding about ten miles we put up at a very comfortable inn. 
 
 " 7th. — Left this place early, and rode twelve miles to another 
 inn, where we had a religious opportunity with the inn-keeper's 
 family. After breakfast proceeded, and on our way stopped to get 
 some refreshment, and had a sitting with a pretty large family ; 
 after which we rode to E. Cook's, at Pelham, and met a kind 
 reception. 
 
 " 8th. — A rainy day, and but few Friends at meeting, and the 
 other part of the company mostly raw looking people — a number 
 of women and girls without bonnets or caps. We sat, I believe, 
 more than two hours in a very trying, cloudy silence, and being 
 
1811.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 453 
 
 near breaking up, E. Cook spoke a few words ; ' That although 
 Paul might plant, and A polios water, it was God who gave the 
 increase after which a little more sprang up in my mind, and 
 an opening to minister, which, though trying work, was some 
 relief to me 
 
 " ]0th. — To a large meeting at Richmond, which proved an open 
 time. We both had relieving service ; and supplication was 
 offered for the extension of mercy and kindness to New England, 
 and thanksgiving for preservation in it. Now we felt a release, 
 this being the last meeting within that Yearly Meeting which we 
 are likely to attend. 
 
 " llth. — To Rockingham, twenty-three miles, and dined, which 
 was a pleasant ride. This afternoon we rode eighteen miles over 
 a turnpike through a wilderness country, at least it appeared so, 
 though we saw here and there a farm. We put up before night 
 at an inn in Cavendish, a pretty village. 
 
 " 12th. — Arose this morning, as we did yesterday, by candle 
 light ; got our breakfast and rode twelve miles to Clark's inn, 
 called Mount Holly. I may with thankfulness, record this morn- 
 ing's ride, as being sweet and comfortable. Got to Stephen Rogers' 
 in a pretty heavy rain, where we met a hearty reception. 
 
 " 13th, First-day. — After breakfast I walked to a wood on the 
 hill, and opposite to a high mountain : here my mind was brought 
 into a calm, and faith granted to believe I was here in the will of 
 my God, — when desires arose, that from henceforth in travels 
 through this Yearly Meeting, his will manifested in me, may be 
 done by me, and thereby prove my sanctification. Thanks be 
 rendered for the renewed extension of mercy and favour. 
 
 "To Danby Meeting; and previous thereto, felt liberty to 
 encourage Stephen Rogers to mention our being likely to attend 
 it this day week. Some close exercise, and also labour, fell to my 
 share. In the afternoon I had a very deep plunge, and for a time 
 I was fearful it was all wrong, and that I had been too presuming ; 
 and yet, on examination, could not accuse myself. Was helped 
 by Stephen Rogers in conversation in the evening. 
 
 " 14th. — Felt easy to have a meeting appointed at Wallingford, 
 about eight miles off. This meeting was held in a Presbyterian 
 House, at two o'clock. Our friends thought it was a satisfactory 
 one, and we came back a few miles, and lodged at N. Lapham's. 
 
 " loth. — After breakfast went to Joseph Button's, and concluded 
 to have notice given of our intention of being at Granville to- 
 morrow, Pollet, Fifth-day ; and Dorset, Sixth-day. 
 
454 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1811. 
 
 " 16th. — There were but few of the neighbours came to the 
 meeting at Granville, and to me it was a distressing time ; we were 
 both silent. A company came in and staid some time, when one 
 of them said, ' Let's go, it's near dinner time, 1 &c. It was pre- 
 parative meeting, at the close of which we had the shutters opened, 
 and a pretty good time with Friends. 
 
 "17th. — To Pollet, and had a meeting in the Presbyterian 
 meeting-house; here the labour fell altogether on me, a poor stripped 
 creature. We dined at a friendly man's, belonging to the congre- 
 gation, where came three men, and had considerable conversation 
 on points of doctrine ; to one of whom S. R. related a remarkable 
 circumstance respecting an Indian. The Indian wanted a pipe of 
 tobacco, — one in company put his hand in his pocket and gave him 
 some. The Indian turned away to fill his pipe and discovered a 
 small piece of silver among it. The Indian expressed himself 
 afterwards nearly in this manner, to some company ; ' Two men 
 talk in my breast, the good man and the bad man ; the good man 
 say, Carry the silver back ; the man that had it did not mean to 
 give thee the silver. The bad man say, You fool ; what is freer than 
 a gift, and you can buy a dram with it ; but the good man speak 
 again, and says, Do as thou would be done by ; the man did not 
 mean to give thee the silver. Then I thought I would sleep upon 
 it, hoping I should be left quiet in my mind about the silver ; but 
 I could not sleep — the two men talk so to me all night long ; in 
 the morning I was made willing to carry back the silver, then I 
 found peace. 1 S. R. then said to one of the most zealous and 
 talkative, ' Take this home with thee, and weigh it carefully in thy 
 own mind, and when prepared, I should be glad to see thee at my 
 house, and inform me whether there can be found a better guide 
 and director in any man, than that which the poor savage Indian 
 found. 1 We proceeded several miles to Dorset, and put up at 
 Sylvester Oheeseborough's. It was rather a trying evening ; my 
 spirits were sunk before we got into this Friend's house, and I had 
 a sleepless night, many things crowding in upon my mind, so that 
 I almost wished to be at home. 
 
 " 18th. — Went to a meeting held in an unfinished house, where 
 Susannah Home had an enlarged opportunity, and I felt very con- 
 tent in silence. We all dined at S. Ci's, and afterwards had a 
 religious opportunity. 
 
 "19th. — Felt a sweet calm on waking ; but why not give thanks 
 for trials, seeing the trial of our faith is precious : ' In every thing 
 give thanks, for such is the will of God concerning you.' 
 
1811.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 455 
 
 " 20th, First-day.-*- To a very large and satisfactory meeting at 
 Danby, where were many youth. I feel thankful we have got 
 through this arduous week's exercise. A large company came to see 
 us in the evening, amongst whom we had a religious opportunity. 
 
 " 2lst. — Accompanied by Stephen Rogers, we rode this day to 
 Cambridge. Put up at Dr. Smith's, whose wife is a member : 
 here we met with a kind and hospitable reception. Not long after 
 we arrived, two serious neighbours came in and spent a part of the 
 evening with us, having heard that some strangers were come ; they 
 supposed it was Esther Griffin and Hannah Field, who on their way 
 to Canada, lately visited families at White Creek, about eight miles 
 from here, and had extended some visits to families not Friends, in 
 or near this place. Before these men left, we proposed a meeting, 
 which was approved of. 
 
 " 22nd, Third-day. — I feel placid and quiet in my present 
 circumstance : let us then wait for further manifestations of our 
 heavenly Father's will, and when favoured with them, cheerfully 
 obey. We had an opportunity with this family after we dined, 
 and proceeded two miles, to what is called the Checkered Inn, 
 where the meeting was held in a large upper chamber. It was 
 filled with people, and was a satisfactory time, manifestly so, by 
 what was expressed at the close, as also the affectionate behaviour 
 of the people. The two friendly men who visited us last evening 
 obtained this place to hold the meeting, and it evidently appeared 
 they took much pains to get their neighbours together. 
 
 " 23rd. — To Cambridge meeting, held in a school-house, which 
 was but a low time. We had a sitting with this family and then 
 rode to J. Dillingham's, at Easton, and lodged. 
 
 " 24th. — The remains of an ancient Friend named Cifford, were 
 buried before the meeting at Easton. The company came into the 
 meeting, which was mostly made up of Friends, and it was a good 
 time. We returned to J. Dillingham's, and had a comfortable 
 sitting with his large family in the evening, and felt much united 
 to both parents and children. 
 
 " 25th. — Crossed the river and attended meetine: at Saratoga, 
 held for Friends only, which was a singular time. 
 
 u 2Gth, Seventh-day.— We rode to Troy: we were informed 
 that twenty-six years ago, there was only the ferry-house and 
 another in Troy. 
 
 " 27th, First-day. — To meeting in Troy : and my mind singu- 
 larly exercised with fears that all present did not walk and act in 
 the true faith once delivered to the saints, and had a relieving 
 
456 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1811. 
 
 time. At the close we appointed a public meeting, to be held at six 
 o'clock ; which was an unsettled, trying, dull one to me — I felt 
 entirely shut up. ' If another shall come in his own name, him ye 
 will receive.' 
 
 " 28th. — We could not get off according to expectation and 
 desire this morning, and so staid until after dinner, before which 
 had a religious opportunity with J. G. Proceeded to Albany, 
 where a clever little company assembled in the evening, and we 
 encouraged them to consider whether it would not be right to sit 
 together, and keep up a meeting in this place. 
 
 " 29th. — After breakfast crossed the river at Albany and rode 
 to Henry Marriott's, Jun., about twenty miles, and after a reli- 
 gious opportunity proceeded to Klinykill. 
 
 " 30th. — To Klinykill meeting, which was rather a laborious 
 time. We dined at A. Macey's, and after a religious time with 
 this large family returned to Henry Marriott's and lodged ; here 
 we had a religious opportunity before we retired. 
 
 " 3\st. — Went to Hudson meeting, which was a solid, com- 
 fortable season. 
 
 " Eleventh Month 2nd. — Susannah Horne and companions set 
 off for Nine Partners. I tried it until our chaise was brought to 
 the door, and did not feel easy to leave this town. After they left 
 me we crossed the river to Athens, and went to John Alsop's : 
 whilst sitting there, my thoughts were turned to another family 
 whose names I had heard mentioned, and was free to go, and so 
 went on from place to place, until we visited all the families 
 except one, being twelve in number. 
 
 " 3rd, First-day. — To meeting, and had a satisfactory, open 
 time, much as last Fifth-day. After dinner went to visit the 
 halt and maimed. 
 
 " On the 4th, accompanied by several Friends, we rode to 
 Henry Hull's, and on the 5th attended the select meeting at 
 Nine Partners, where we met with David Sands and wife. It 
 was a low time with me on the way to meeting this morning, but I 
 was raised up before it closed ; dear David being favoured to speak 
 feelingly to my state, and I thought to my companion, Susannah 
 Home's also, whom we met again at this place. Dined at Isaac 
 Thorn's, and afterwards paid a visit to the Yearly Meeting board- 
 ing-school ; went through the different rooms among the children, 
 and had a meeting with them and the family in the evening. 
 
 " 6th, Fourth-day. — To Nine Partners 1 Quarterly Meeting, 
 which was a favoured, good time throughout. 
 
1811.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEKGOOD. 
 
 457 
 
 « *jth. — To Stanford, to Henry Hull's, and walked to meeting, 
 which was a remarkable time of instruction and favour, — back 
 and dined, and drank tea at John Hull's with many Friends, 
 and afterwards had a religious opportunity. 
 
 " 8th The Quarterly Meeting at Stanford was a remarkably 
 
 favoured time. 
 
 "9^.— To an appointed meeting at Pleasant Valley, which 
 was small, but a favoured season. 
 
 " 10th. — To meeting at Poughkeepsie, which was held in an 
 upper room in a dwelling-house. In the evening to an appointed 
 meeting in the court-house, which was large, and a quiet favoured 
 season. 
 
 " llth. — This morning David Sands and wife accompanied us 
 to Marlborough, where we had a satisfactory meeting. 
 
 " 12th. — To a meeting appointed at the Valley, after which we 
 rode to D. Birdsall's. I felt pilgrim-like on riding up to this 
 house. The hearty reception of this Friend measurably healed me. 
 
 " 13th. — After breakfast sat down with this large family and 
 had a comfortable time. Proceeded to Newburg, which I suppose 
 is the spot where the American army lay when David Brooks 
 and myself passed through it thirty-five years ago. We had a 
 meeting in the court-house, which was very small, but a comfort- 
 able, instructive season. In the afternoon rode on to David 
 Sands', where we were received with much affectionate kindness, 
 and spent the evening pleasantly. 
 
 "14tfA. — To meeting, which was large, and an open, satisfactory 
 season ; much so it appeared to dear David Sands and wife. 
 
 " \5th, Sixth-day. — After a very solemn time in the family, 
 wherein near sympathy was felt, we proceeded to an inn, about 
 thirty-two miles. 
 
 " 1 6th. — Set off about day-light on our journey. At Sussex 
 court-house we got directions about the way, which appeared not 
 to be correct. W e got lost in the woods, and after riding several 
 miles out of our way, we met two men, who directed us across the 
 country to an inn, where we were set right, and arrived at our 
 friend E. Wilson's, at Hardwick, near dusk. This may be 
 received as a favour throughout ; for if we had tarried in the 
 morning one hour, and the same circumstance happened, we 
 might have been in the woods all night. 
 
 " llth, First-day. — To meeting at Hardwick, which was larger 
 than I expected, and an open, encouraging time ; several, after 
 meeting, appeared glad to see me. We went home with G. Wilson. 
 
458 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. [1811. 
 
 " 1 8th. — Arose before day, and after we had eaten, had a com- 
 fortable, encouraging time with this lovely family. We moved 
 on and got to our friend Henry Clifton's, at Kingwood, about 
 sunset. We rode through that part of the country which David 
 Brooks and I did thirty years ago. I remembered the stop we 
 made at Watson's, whose house stood on a hill, and before the 
 door a very fine spring issued : this was the place I first ventured 
 to go down in awful supplication in public. The precious feelings 
 I had at that time, are remembered by me this day, and how 
 marvellously I have been led about since ; ' I am not worthy,' 
 said Jacob, on his journey back to his father's house ; and so 
 said I. 
 
 " ~[9th. — Some more light, ease and comfort this morning. It 
 was in Bucks county I began in the work of the ministry, and 
 then came to this place; a little similar to Elisha following Elijah. 
 The Lord preserve my dear aged friend and brother, David 
 Brooks, unto the end, and protect me in and through all yet to be 
 met with: preserve me in integrity. Amen. The meeting was 
 larger than I expected, and a season of much encouragement. 
 Dined at Henry Clifton's, and after it paid an acceptable visit to 
 his brother William and family. 
 
 " 20th. — To Benjamin Clark's, Stonybrook ; rode about thirty 
 miles in the rain. 
 
 "2]st. — To Stonybrook meeting, which was a close, searching 
 time. Dear Susannah Home prayed for them, and on the whole 
 it was satisfactory. In the evening had a religious opportunity : 
 the Lord is to be waited on for fulfilling his own will and purpose. 
 
 " 22nd. — To Dr. Taylor's, accompanied by Benjamin Clark ; 
 here we met a kind reception. It is a day of exercise, having 
 written home respecting an opening to engage in a family visit in 
 the Northern district. 
 
 " 23rd. — To meeting at East Branch, [Robins'] ; a favoured 
 time. B. Clark staid with us, and I thought, had a good time 
 near the close ; indeed, the meeting throughout was to my 
 admiration. 
 
 " 24th, First-day. — To Crosswicks 1 meeting, and favoured with 
 an open season, to satisfaction. Second and Third-days, attended 
 Burlington Quarterly Meeting, and on Fourth-day evening arrived 
 at my own habitation, a little after night, and found my family 
 in health.' 1 
 
1812.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 459 
 
 CHAPTER XXII. 
 
 1811-1814. VISITS, IN COMPANY WITH SUSANNAH HORNE, SOME OP 
 
 THE FAMILIES OF FRIENDS IN PHILADELPHIA PERFORMS A SIMILAR 
 
 SERVICE IN COMPANY WITH THREE OTHER FRIENDS, IN 1812 
 
 ACCOMPANIES S. HORNE TO NEW JERSEY AND NEW YORK PAYS HIS 
 
 LAST VISIT TO WEST TOWN BOARDING SCHOOL ADDRESSES A 
 
 FRIEND WHOM HE BELIEVES IS CALLED TO THE WORK OF THE 
 MINISTRY IS TAKEN ILL SOME OF HIS DYING EXPRESSIONS. 
 
 In the Twelfth Month of this year, he visited the families of 
 the Northern district Monthly Meeting, to which he belonged, 
 in company with his friend Susannah Horne ; and after this was 
 accomplished, a similar visit was made to the families of Phila- 
 delphia Monthly Meeting, both of which were to the peace of his 
 own mind, and the edification of the visited. 
 
 He remarks, in relation to these visits ; "O! the deep descend- 
 ings I have experienced this last winter, both on my bed and in 
 families, and since. Whilst sitting in one of thenV, about Third 
 Month 26th, of this year, 1812, the very same prospects respect- 
 ing the renewings of hostilities on the continent of Europe, 
 opened and spread over my exercised mind, as did in the last 
 conflict with Austria, Fourth Month 2nd, 1809 ; and I know not 
 how to record it better, than to transcribe what Ezekiel mentions : 
 ' Also, son of man, appoint thee two ways, that the sword of the 
 king of Babylon may come : both twain shall come forth out of 
 one land : and choose thou a place, choose it at the head of the 
 way to the city,' &c, &c, to the end." 
 
 Fifth Month 12th, First-day, 1812.— He thus writes; "The 
 descendings of my soul into darkness and the deeps, have been 
 humblingly great, and my trials such, as almost to induce me to 
 entertain a belief I am forsaken. I have queried again and again, 
 why it should be so, if I am indeed not cast off and out of mind 
 of my heavenly Father ; then surely I have, must have, fellow- 
 ship with such who have lived in dens and caves of the earth ; 
 or with the prophet, who was fed by the ravens, and travelled in 
 the strength of the sustenance his Lord and Master ministered 
 to him, until he arrived at his destined place ; where, after those 
 alarming seasons of fire, wind, and earthquake, he stood in the 
 
4G0 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1813. 
 
 entrance of the cave, wrapt his head in his mantle, and heard 
 thy voice, 0 Lord ! intelligibly once more, and was further com- 
 missioned in thy blessed service. 0 Lord, my God ! my Helper 
 hitherto, thou favouredst me in New England, and also in the 
 late exercise gone through, in the families of my fellow-members 
 and others. If, at any time, thy servant exceeded, forgive ; and 
 wash and purify me, and make more me clean and pure ; keep 
 me in patient resignation to thy will, and be graciously pleased to 
 open my state and condition once more to me ; but yet in thy 
 time, not mine ; and thy will be done." 
 
 The latter part of the year 1812, and the beginning of 1813, he 
 was engaged in a visit to the families of Friends belonging to the 
 Southern district Monthly Meeting, Philadelphia, in company with 
 Susannah Horneand her companion, Mary Allinson, and Jonathan 
 Evans ; which he remarks, was a closely exercising time. 
 
 In the Fifth Month, 1813, he accompanied Susannah Horne to 
 Bristol and Trenton meetings, and back to' Burlington. Here- 
 marks, respecting this visit ; " I was under great discouragement 
 respecting going this little tour, and hardly knew how to leave 
 home, several circumstances combining to hinder. But after set- 
 ting out I felt comfortable, and may record, that the 1 7th, and 
 Second-day of the week, was a day of days. On my way to 
 Trenton I had not a sensation of pain, either in body or soul ; and 
 in the ride back in the afternoon, both the heavens above and the 
 earth beneath, to my outward view, were beautiful, cheering and 
 pleasant ; and may I not venture to record, that such a holy sweet- 
 ness and peace spread over all, that it was as heaven upon earth 
 to me. I returned home peaceful, and with a sufficient reward, 
 which with thankfulness is recorded." 
 
 On the 15th of the Sixth Month following, he writes : " To 
 meeting, but all closed up, and has been pretty much so of late ; 
 yet not without some little peep through the cloud at times. It 
 is trying to live in death, and yet I crave ability so to do ; for 
 man can do nothing aright, without Christ his Lord. I say in 
 secret oftentimes, in low places, 0 ! when will my poor travailing 
 soul know more of an emancipation from fetters, bonds and chains. 
 I long for ability to serve Grod with greater freedom ; but why should 
 I desire even this, so desirable, if it is not safe for me. I might 
 be in danger of taking the precious jewels of peace and liberty, and 
 play the harlot with them. Thou, 0 my heavenly Father ! 
 knowest best what is best for me. This I crave of thee, to be 
 enabled to fulfil thy will in suffering: ' Sigh, therefore, thou son 
 
1S14.] MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 461 
 
 of man, with the breaking of thy loins ; and with bitterness sigh 
 before their eyes.' — Ezekiel xxi. 6. Why did this exercised 
 prophet sigh \ 1 For the tidings ; because it coraeth : and every 
 heart shall melt, and all hands shall be feeble, and every spirit 
 shall faint, and all knees shall be weak as water : behold, it cometh, 
 and shall be brought to pass,' &c. " 
 
 In the Seventh Month of this year, he went to New York to 
 be with Susannah Horne and Elizabeth Coggeshall, at the time of 
 their embarking for England. He says in relation to it ; " As I 
 sat in our adjourned Monthly Meeting, Sixth Month 29th, after 
 many tears of contrition, I felt an opening, accompanied with a 
 degree of sweetness, to go to New York. 
 
 " Seventh Month 7th. — Attended the Monthly Meeting of New 
 York, which was a remarkable time. Susannah Horne opened the 
 service, Elizabeth Coggeshall followed, and I bent in supplication. 
 
 " Wth, First-day. — Orders were given to go to the ship, which 
 had dropped down to the watering-place, seven or nine miles off. 
 Samuel Emlen, John Warder, William Allinson and I, with 
 several New York Friends, accompanied them aboard. Staid 
 about an hour and a half with them, and parted with near sympa- 
 thetic affection." The next day he set off for home, where he 
 arrived on the 13th. 
 
 In the Twelfth Month, 1813, he paid his last visit to West- 
 town boarding school, an institution in which he had long been 
 deeply interested, and where his labours had been blessed. At 
 this time he had some precious religious opportunities with the 
 teachers, and children, both in the school-rooms and at meeting 
 In one of the former, his mind was. led into close feeling with one 
 of the teachers, under an apprehension that she was called to the 
 work of the ministry, which he found it his place to communicate to 
 her, speaking in a very impressive manner on those words of our 
 dear Lord to Peter ; " Feed my sheep. 1 ' The event proved that 
 his impressions were correct, the Friend appearing in prayer at the 
 meeting on the following Fifth-day, and being afterwards acknow- 
 ledged as a minister in the Society of Friends. Shortly after his 
 return home, he addressed the following letter to her, viz : 
 
 " Philadelphia, First Month 5th, 1814. 
 
 " Dear Friend, 
 
 " Thy letter came to hand this day, and after perusing it, I 
 felt a portion of the same freedom thou expressed, to sit down and 
 
462 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTEKGOOD. 
 
 [1814. 
 
 answer it ; for as in a glass face answers to face, so doth the heart 
 of man to man; such salutations proceeding from exercised children 
 in the heavenly Father's family, brought forth by and through 
 many baptisms, cannot fail to unite. I have looked back at the little 
 visit paid you at West-town with sweetness, and the opportunity 
 of expressing what impressed my mind in thy school-room ; and 
 finding soon afterwards I was not mistaken, is one more seal, added 
 to others, graciously vouchsafed me. I rejoiced over thee in thy 
 appearance in the meeting and afterwards, as much as I could have 
 done for a new-born babe ; yes, more so ; and as I perceive, by 
 thy plaintive letter, thou art desirous of being preserved so as to 
 abide in that lot which thy Divine Master may apportion thee, 
 and I have no doubt of the sincerity of thy humbled soul, it arises 
 in my heart to encourage thee to be faithful ; remembering, that 
 it is the faithful who are to abound with blessings. Remember, 
 dear child, in all thy movements in so weighty a work, how it 
 was with thee that day, what carefulness to move aright. Well 
 then, be watchful, be vigilant ; wait in the assemblies of the Lord's 
 people for the same renewed touches of that live coal ; and after 
 thou hast, through holy help, turned the fleece and tried it both 
 wet and dry, and feels the evidence of the requiring, then hesitate 
 no longer, and even if thy going forth in the work may be in 
 fear and trembling — words thus spoken will reach the witness in 
 others, and by faithfulness thy gift will be enlarged ; and when it 
 is so, render all the praise to the great and bountiful Giver : seek 
 his praise, and not the praise of men. May the Lord preserve 
 thee in humility, reverence and fear, all the days of thy life ; so 
 wilt thou have occasion to bless his Holy Name. This is written 
 with fear and care, by no means to exalt the creature ; but that, 
 as expressed above, thou may be kept in lowliness and fear. So 
 craves for himself, and for thee, thy affectionate and sympathising 
 friend, 
 
 " Thomas Scattergood." 
 
 Thomas Scattergood was taken sick on the night of the 20th of 
 the Fourth Month, 1814, with typhus fever, which soon greatly 
 prostrated his strength. It was during the time of the Yearly 
 Meeting, the several sittings of which he had attended until 
 Fourth-day evening ; and in conversation with his son he expressed 
 his satisfaction in believing, that so far it had been owned by the 
 overshadowing of heavenly good, which he hoped might con- 
 tinue to be the case to the end ; adding, " Though I cannot be 
 
1814.] 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 463 
 
 with you personally, my mind will be there, with desires that best 
 wisdom may direct you." He made inquiry respecting a subject 
 pending in the Yearly Meeting, which occasioned much exercise 
 to his mind, and remarked, " I fear there is too much of a dispo- 
 sition in many Friends of the present day, to have liberty, and to 
 trample under foot the testimonies and judgment of our worthy 
 predecessors. 11 
 
 On Sixth-day evening the Yearly Meeting closed ; and he in- 
 quired cheerfully how the several subjects which had engaged its 
 attention since he left it, had been disposed of ; and manifested 
 his satisfaction in hearing, especially, that our testimony against 
 distilling or using spirituous liquors had been revived, and claimed 
 weighty attention. 
 
 On Seventh-day, a friend sitting by his bed-side, expressed that 
 he felt his mind covered with a calming and peaceful solemnity ; 
 on which Thomas took him by the hand and replied, " So do I — 
 my mind is centred in quiet, peaceful resignation. 1 ' 
 
 A friend calling to see him, in whom he was much interested, 
 he expressed his satisfaction in seeing her ; saying, " I have much 
 desired thy preservation every way. I hope thou wilt be preserved 
 in the innocency and sweetness.' 1 Upon her remarking, that the 
 great Shepherd of Israel was near him, and she believed would be 
 to the end, he replied with much animation, " He is near me — 
 I feel quiet and sweet.' 1 
 
 Although his weakness had much increased, so that he was 
 scarcely able to help himself, yet he wished to sit up out of bed ; 
 — and though the exertion evidently fatigued him, yet he felt the 
 change to be reviving to him. He took food with a good relish, 
 and passed the night without any apparent cbange for the worse, 
 until near morning, when one of those sinking spells came on, 
 which are so common in this disease. 
 
 One or other of his physicians were with him pretty constantly 
 through First-day the 24th, and all was done for his relief which 
 their skill and judgment dictated ; but his constitution was unable 
 to sustain the load of disease, and respond favourably to the re- 
 medies used. 
 
 In the afternoon, he remarked in substance : " This is the last 
 piece of the garment that is to be worked up, and if I can be 
 favoured to join the righteous of every generation, it will be 
 enough." Shortly after he said, " I don't know that I have much 
 to say for myself; I leave it to the Lord, the Shepherd that sleep- 
 eth not by day, nor slumbereth by night, who watcheth over his 
 
464 
 
 MEMOIRS OF THOMAS SCATTERGOOD. 
 
 [1814. 
 
 children, and over his flock." On taking some drink, he remarked : 
 " A cup of cold water in the name of a disciple is pleasant and 
 presently after, " I hope a righteous generation will be raised up 
 and preserved as a seed." Remaining a little while in silence, he 
 added : " 0 ! if we can but be favoured to take some of this love 
 with us." " I have been thinking of Josiah Bunting ; and hope 
 and believe he made a good end — it is the end crowns all — I have 
 nothing to boast of." 
 
 His vital powers now appeared to be fast sinking, and his speedy 
 departure was looked for ; but reviving a little, he said, " I do not 
 expect I am going now, that is, suddenly — if so, it is hid from me 
 among the rest of the Lord's secrets. I have been baptized into 
 many low places and raised up again." 
 
 After some time of silence, and when very near his close, he 
 said with some emphasis, " I will lead them" — and again " 0 ! 
 who will stand V He peacefully departed about twenty minutes 
 after seven o'clock in the evening, (24th of Fourth Month, 1814) 
 in the 66th year of his age — having endeavoured to serve his 
 generation according to the will of God, and been faithful in the 
 occupancy of the gift bestowed upon him, we have the consoling 
 assurance, that he is numbered among those at the right hand, 
 and has received the welcome sentence, " Enter thou into the joy 
 of thy Lord." 
 
 Richard Barrett, Printer, 13, Mark Lane, London. 
 
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 for this able work must be the production of either a bond jide member of that estimable body, or of 
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