QCT 31 1960 ^ j BX 7795 .H353 A3 1840 Hall, Rufus, 1744-1818. A journal of the life, religious exercises, and I I 1 A JOURNAL or THE ' LIFE, RELIGIOUS EXERCISES, AND TRAVELS IN THE WORK OF THE MINISTRY, NORTHAMPTON, MONTGOMERY COUNTY. IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK BYBERRY: PUBUSHED BY JOHN AND ISAAC COMLY. J. RICHARDS, PRINTER, PIULADELPHIA. OK RUFUS HALL, LATE OF 1840. Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2015 https://archive.org/details/journalofliferelOOhall_0 CONTENTS. His birth and parentage, page 1. Early impressions in relation to the resurrection, 2. Removal to Duchess county. New York, 3. Youthful vanities, 4. Visit of Robert Willis, 5. Thoughts on min- istry, 7. His marriage and remarks on weddings, 7, 8, !). Scruples about wearing buckles and gloves, 10, 11. First appearance in the ministry, 13. His removal to Saratoga, 14, 15. Narrative and dif- ficulties of the revolutionary war, 16 — 19. Increase of Friends and of meetings in the northern parts of New York state, 20, 21, 23. Re- marks on forming new settlements, 22. Account of Robert Nesbit, 24. His first religious visit to New England, 25. Remarks on Friends launching out in speculations, and superfluities, 32. Year- ly Meeting's concern for reformation, 33. Carried out by a commit- tee of Easton Quarterly meeting witliin its limits, in a visit to all the families and meetings, 33 — 37. Religious exercises and prospects, 37, 39. Visit to Pittstown and Petersburg, 39. Journey to Genes, see, Niagara and Canada, 42. Account of the falls of Niagara, 52. Of a hurricane in Canada, 53. Return home, 58. Remarks on the passage, " Study to be quiet, and do thy own business," 59. Reflec- tions on the pursuit of wealth, 69. Remarks on a lifeless ministry, 72. Anne Hoag, 74. Epistle to Friends at Adolphus-town, Upper Canada, 75. Domestic trials, 80. Journey to Thirman's patent, 82. On spiritual worship, 83. On Priestcraft, 85. Account of Daniel Cornell, 86—88. Journey to Oxford, 89. Strictures on the manner of spending the 4th of 7th month, — visit to new settlers, 90. On at- tending week-day meetings, 91. Journey northward with Joseph Wilbur, 92. On silent meetings, 94 — 96. Journey to Oxford and Beekman-town, 97. On baptism, 98. Account of Mary Griffin, 99. Journey to attend the Yearly Meeting at New York, 101. Outward affairs, danger of a selfish spirit, 103. Caution to ministers, 104. — Visit to Queensbury and Thirman-town, 106. Nathan Hunt's visit, 108. Do. of Reuben Palmer and Sarah Lundy, 109. Remarkable preservation from fire. 111. On paying taxes for warlike purposes, 112. Visit to Johnstown, Northampton, &c., 115. Remarks on the practice of collecting companies of men to roll logs, and the use of spirituous liquors, 116. Visit to Danby and Vermont, 119. Death CONTENTS. of Ills father, 122. Several visits in company with John Gifford, 124. Death of his daughter-in-law Lois Hall, 12G. Prospect of another visit to Upper Canada, 127. Lefl home in order to perform his se- cond visit to Upper Canada, 128. Difficulties in his journey to the Bay of Canty, 134." Return home, 136. Removal to Northampton, 137. Visit to Beekman-town and Nine Partners, 137. Sale of his Farm at Ea?ton, and remarks, 138. Visits on the subject of unau- thorised ministry, 140. Season of mental depresi-ion, 141. Visit to requesters at Western, and difficulties in the journey, 142. Short journeys, 144, 5. Visit to Friends and others about Western, 146. Do. Queciisbury, 148. Journey to Black river on a committee, 149. Account of his attending the Yearly Meeting in New York, 151. — Prospect of a visit to the meetings within tlie Southern Quarters, 153. Account of the journey, 154. Notice of Mary Griffin, 157. — Visit to parts of Vermont, 158. Journey to visit Friends in the Hol- land Purchase, 160. Reflections on the seasons, spiritually, 163. — Account of David Ilovvland's Death, 164. Decease of his sister Alice Ho.xsie, 165. Account of a remarkable thunder storm, 165. Religi- ous meeting with his near neighbours, 167. Retrospective obser- vations, 169. Ladowick Hoxsie's memorial concerning Rufus Hall, 170. Testimony of Galvvay monthly meeting concerning hira, 172. Short account of William Odell, 175. JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. It hath been on my mind, at many times, to leave some memorandums of the gracious dealings of the Lord with my soul; and notwithstanding my gifts and talents are not very large, and my services in life have not been very great, as I conceive, yet there may something be picked out of my journal that may be of use, at least to the rising generation. I was born in the town of Exeter, Rhode Island, the 8th of the 6th month, 1744, of honest parents, Samuel and Dinah Hall, who were members of the society of Friends. They educated me, I suppose, in as good a manner as they were capable of — taking care to give me a little school learning, so that I can read tolerably well, and write and cypher sufficient for common business; at least I make it do. They took care also to get me to meetings often, and it had some good effect on me when very )'oung; for I well remember the awful veneration I sometimes felt over my mind when sitting in those meetings; although I understood it not then, yet I believe there was something good at work in me at that early period of life. When I was in my eighth or ninth year, I was visited with a fit of sickness; at the same time my mother was sick also, and a doctor that was a colle- gian attended us nearly all one winter, and we both 1 2 JOURNAL OF RtJFUS HALL. recovered. Our doctor wrote a small pamphlet on the resurrection, in verse, and got it printed; and when he came to settle with my father in the spring, he made a present of one of his books to my mother. On looking into it, she found he had treated the sub- ject contrary to what she believed to be true; for he held forth a resurrection of the body at a certain day or time. She set no store by the book; but thinking it would induce me to get my reading again, which I had lost by sickness, she gave me the book. It being in verse, I read it with abundance of pleasure, and thought that the idea there set forth of the resur- rection of the body, was true. After I came to riper years, I found Friends did not join with that doctrine, but held the resurrection in another light: yet I could not understand how they did hold it, so that I began to think they were in an error; for I thought such a learned man as doctor Walton must certainly be right, and I could have no notion of the resurrection, only what my little book set forth; so that I was blundered about it many years. Neither did I ever find out what the resurrection was, until I witnessed it in my own heart to be effected by the light of Christ arising in me, raising me from dead works into the life and power of God. I have been particular in the relation of this cir- cumstance, to set forth the strong bias that education and superstition may produce on the tender minds of children, and perhaps on some of riper age; and also to point out the care parents ought to have in bringing up children. For it appears to me, had it not been for this error that I had so strongly taken in, I might have been much further forward in my judgment concerning principles than I was; although JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 3 the Lord was good to me, he did not forsake me; but by degrees showed me the way I should walk. Not long after this sickness, my father sold his farm, and moved into Dutchess county, in the state of New York. Here, being six or seven miles from a Friends' meeting, the roads bad and a mountain in the vvay, we could not get to meeting so frequently as usual, and the family became more and more cor- rupted by loose and unprofitable company, especially on the first day of the week. In the space of four years that we lived there, I became considerably corrupted, but all along thought that some time I would do better; not considering that putting it off for some other time, was making it harder for me to do it. About the beginning of the commotions in 1756, my father sold his farm, and moved to a place called Oswego, within three miles of a Friends' meeting: but by this time I began to have a distaste for religi- ous meetings, and a great relish for vain company, joking and singing songs. This was all unknown to my parents; for I knew they would not counte- nance me in such things. . Thus I went on for some time, until I grew weary of myself, for I still had times of seriousness, and saw plainly if I went on at this rate, I should soon be undone: for horror of soul seized me, and I was convinced, if I did not repent and amend my life that everlasting destructron would be my portion. Thus I was brought into a state of seeking,* and at length I formed a resolution that I would take good heed to the secret motions in my *Two pages are here missing in the original MS. — they probably contained an account of the author's first recognition of a Divine principle. 4 JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. heart. Now I found myself constrained to forsake many things I had before allowed myself in; but the thoughts of leaving my companions came so close to my life, or the life I then lived in, that I let in the reasoner in this sort: — I am young, and why should I sacrifice the time of my youth in living a serious life? There are many good men that are grown old, who in their youth were as wicked as I am, perhaps more so, and it is time enough for me to repent when I am older, and it will then be easier to forsake wick- ed company; for men as they grow old, have not so strong an inclination for pleasure as young people have; and therefore it will not be so hard to wean themselves from it. Besides, it appears to me there is more liberty allowed to youth than to old age, or surely they would not have been endued with so much stronger inclinations to pleasure. With such like reasonings I was drawn off time after time, until I became almost entirely captivated by satan again, or at least so far that I allowed myself to do many things that did not give me satisfaction in some of my more serious moments: for all this time I had by intervals some visitations of Divine good. Thus I went on sinning and being reproved for it, for some time. Although I attended Friends' meetings pretty con- stantly, it was merely in conformity to my parents; for I ever had a regard to them, though I did not always act consistent therewith; yet in attending meetings I mostly gave way to their requirings: and I can now say that I never repented it; but have many times been sorry I was not more careful than I was in obeying their commands fully; believing thit if children who have religious parents, would JODRNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 5 conform to their advice, though it may sometimes seem to be hard or even unreasonable, yet in time it would be found to be to their advancement in the best things. This I think I have learned by expe- rience to be a great truth. It was about this time, while my mind was in these struggles, that our worthy friend Robert Wil- lis came through the country visiting families, and, was at our house, and had a sitting in the family. — When I observed his serious countenance, I felt guilt in my mind and tried to sit in as bye a place as I could, for I thought the Friend would discover my very inside. Thus wicked people are afraid of good men, although they are in truth their best friends. Robert had a favoured time in a very lengthy dis- course amongst us, and towards the latter end of hi* testimony, he spoke so exactly to my condition, that I concluded nothing but Divine assistance could let him see it so plain and clear as he djd. I was broken down into a flood of tears and silent lamentation for my undone condition, so that I began to think of covenanting with my God, that if he would forgive me, and favour me with his good will, instead of his displeasure, I would be more faithful for the time to come. When the sitting broke up, Robert took me by the hand, and in a tender, loving manner, said,, "young man, see that thou do not endeavour to get from under the sketch of the net." The whole fami- ly seemed mucli affected, and I think it was a pecu- liar favour from Divine goodness to us all. The transgressing nature in me, notwithstanding,, was so strong that the same day in the afternoon I renewed a resolution to go to a town meeting, and went to one of my uncles, on the way thither: with, 1 * 6 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. several of my cousins and acquaintance I went to another cousin's house to spend the evening in mer- riment, but not without some considerable condem- nation in my own heart. Some of them proposed for me to sing a song for them. I at first objected for reasons I was not willing to give. But they all insisted on it, as I had many times gratified them in that way; so after a great deal of persuading, I un- dertook it; but the conviction I felt was so strong that it aflected my speech in such a manner that I be- lieve I did not deliver my words distinctly. How- ever I got through with my song, and they did not ask me to sing any more. Next day I went to the town meeting with my comrades, but was so con- victed in my mind that I could take no pleasure in their company — so I came home, sick enough of my journey. Finding I was now no company for rude people, I began to be weaned from them, yet did not think myself fit for sober company; so that I sought to be alone, and looked upon myself to be one of the most miserable creatures in the world. I began to think I had sinned the unpardonable sin against the Holy Ghost; though I did not know what that sin was, yet I knew I had sinned against light and knowledge, and I feared it never would be forgiven. I consider- ed I had been favoured, both by the secret testimony of light and truth in my own heart, and my case had been laid open to me by the aforesaid friend Robert Willis: all which made my condition look gloomy to me. Thus I struggled as it were for life, for some days, and had only now and then a little glimpse of hope; till at length the Lord in his wonderful mercy was pleased to appear for my encouragement, and I JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 7 ventured again to renew my covenant with him, and he visited me in mercy and good will to the refresh- ing of my soul. Now I had openings in my mind concerning the scriptures; passages would occur to my memory, and the signification of them did open in a remarkable manner; which served to confirm me that the Lord did in some measure own me. One thing often came into my mind, that seemed to be a mystery — it was this; how a minister of the gospel knew that he was rightly called to that weighty work; or how did he know when to stand up and what to say? It appeared to me he ought to be divine- ly inspired, and I could not see how it was brought about. Not thinking it would ever be my lot to be concerned that way, I endeavoured to get rid of these thoughts as matters that need not concern me. In the meantime I had several exercises to go through, and was not without some missteps, some of them not very small neither; yet the Lord was so good lo me that I rather gained ground of the adversary. I have now brought up my account to my twenty- fourth year, about which time I was married to Anne Hoxsie, daughter of Zebulon and Sarah Hoxsie of Oswego, now Beekmantown, Dutchess county. On this occasion I feel a freedom to make some remarks. I have ever looked upon it a very weighty engage- ment to enter into marriage covenant, and that it ought to be done in a solemn manner. I have thought it hath at some times been done in our meetings, so far as it was done there, in a satisfactory manner. — But when I have observed the large collection of Friends and sometimes others, that accompany the s JOURNAL OF RUF0S HALL. couple to dine and spend the afternoon with one an- other, I believe it is not very profitable in common. There may not be any thing done that is heinous^ yet in very few of these gatherings, if any, but there is more or less unprofitable talking, sometimesjesting, if nothing worse, which has a tendency to draw the mind off from that solemnity which ought to attend it when it hath been favoured with a good meeting. And it looks to me inconsistent with right order to have large gatherings at such times more than at other times. Would there not be more consistency in our conduct if we were not to invite so many to dine with us at these times? It seems clear to me it would be much better, and would ease Friends of con- siderable labour and exercise also. I am not insensible that I have now touched a point that is tender with some — even good Friends. I am sensible of the strength of custom and force of tradition. Some will say these things have been al- lowed these many generations. Even good Friends have had and made great marriages, and they were thought well of, and Jesus Christ attended a marriage and wrought a peculiar miracle thereat, which seems to ratify it by Divine authority: and for aught I know thou art the first that ever opposed it. I answer, that my being the first, makes nothing in favour of the continuation: Friends having been in the custom a long time, of making large weddings, doth no more justify the practice, unless it is right and useful, than their keeping negroes in slavery ought to perpetuate that practice, which is now seen clearly to be very inconsistent. And as to Jesus attending the marriage, it no more tolerates making large preparations at such times in this gospel day, than his being eircum- JOUKNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 9 cised, baptized, and conforming to many other Jewish rites, would tolerate them in this day. And I see not why his working a miracle at that marriage gives any more sanction to large weddings now-a-days, than it would have done had it been done at any other time. 1 see nothing in it only this, — the time was then fully come that Christ Avas to be made manifest to the world by miracles, and this was a suitable time; for he was one of the guests, and there was a large company, whereby he might appear in a conspicuous manner, and it would be a plentiful proof of the fact, that the world of mankind might be left without excuse. Although this has been my settled opinion for many years, even before I was married; yet there was a large collection of Friends and others that came home with us, and great preparations were made, but I believe my wife and I were clear of it, and tried what we could not to have it so: the force of custom was so strong with our parents that they could not be prevailed upon to omit making prepa- rations, even at both houses: which was a burden to me and my wife. It seemed rather a day of sor- row than a day of rejoicing, by reason of the multi- tude of people, and some vain ones too: that on the whole, there was hardly weight sufficient to bear down the lightness. I do not mention this in any wise to cast reflec- tions on our parents; for I believe they were con- cerned for us, and wanted to do for us so that we should be profited in the best things by our coming together. But I have often thought, if friends could be sensible of the exercise these gatherings at mar- riages bring on many Friends, they would, for the 10 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. love they have for their friends, entirely omit ma- king preparations at such times more than at other times. Thus we were joined in marriage in Friends' meeting held at Oswego, the 26th of the 1st month, 1769, and began together a world full of troubles, some share of which we took upon us even the first day of our marriage. For although our nuptial joys were in their prime at that day, yet our minds were brought into such an exercise on account of the in- consistent conduct of some of the guests, that the bitter seemed to devour the relish of the sweet. After some months we went to keeping house in a new log house that I had built for that purpose on my father's land, expecting to settle there for life-. We were well suited for a considerable time, enjoy- ing one another's company and fellowship in perfect peace and tranquillity. Meantime my mind was ex- ercised in a religious line, in different ways; for by this time I had become more settled, and stronger in the faith; and sometimes a necessity was laid on me to bear testimony in my conduct to the truth of what I believed to be right; an instance of which was- this — A little before I was married, I got me and my intended wife each of us a curious pair of brass shoe buckles — no Friends then that I knew of but what allowed of wearing plain buckles, and these were plain but curiously made; so I put mine in my shoes and wore them a few times;; but I became un^ easy about them and began to consider how buckles were first introduced, and it appeared with a good degree of clearness, that it was a spirit of pride that first invented them — and although I had no proof of this, only the testimony of what I took to be JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 11 truth in my own heart, yet I fully believed it; and I thought that wearing them was in itself maintaining and cherishing that same root of pride, and therefore 1 could not feel easy to wear them any longer: so took them out and put in strings, which I have made use of ever since, and have found perfect peace in it. Another, something like it, was thus: I thought, ac- cording to custom, I must have a pair of gloves to be married in, and accordingly bought a pair for that purpose; but before the time came, I was made to see that it was nothing but a superstitious custom; therefore I never put them on my hands for that purpose; but, it being a very cold day, I took a pair of coarse yarn mittens, which were much more warm and convenient. Such things may seem small mat- ters to some; but as they concerned my true peace, I found myself under a necessity to be obedient, not despising the day of small things. Now about this time, or not long after, the mys- tery concerning the ministry, before hinted at, was opened to me, and it was effected in a dream. One night as I Lay in bed, I thought I was at our meet- ing, sitting in my usual seat, and felt a concern on my mind to speak in public. I felt as I had never done before; and there seemed such an undeniable evi- dence in my heart that if was my duty to stand on my feet, take oS my hat, and declare certain words to the people, that I was fully convinced, if I omit- ted it, I should be deeply condemned for it. So I thought I stood up and began to declare; and as I spoke 1 felt an increase of concern and of utterance, so that I spoke very powerfully for some time; which seemed to bring a great solemnity over the meeting, and a public Friend that sat in the high seat, took 12 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. me by the hand and led me up into the gallery while I still spoke to them. Soon after, the energy of my spirit grew so strong, that the exercise of my mind awaked me. So that now I was fully satisfied as to that matter: for I thought that if ever I should have such a feeling and evidence in a meeting as I felt in my dream, it would be my duty to preach; for I be- lieved this to be preaching the gospel. From this time some secret thoughts would at times pass my mind, that some time I might be called to publish the gospel. This brought a great dread over me, and I tried to persuade myself that I was entirely unequal to the task. Thus I laboured along in the deeps, and attended our meetings, sometimes feeling very poor and lifeless, and then again I received some strength, and sometimes great encouragement, though it was through hard labour. One day I had been to meet- ing, and after I came home thinking of my exercises, I wrote as follows: How have I been led to day as it were in the wil- derness until I was an hungered and thirsty, and al- most spent with poverty of spirit! Oh! how did I cry unto the Lord for strength, being sincere in de- siring help of him that is able to give strength: and my desires were granted. For as I lifted up my eyes, behold the heavenly manna was given me to eat, and the waters of life were poured out from the rock that Israel drank of in days of old; which was like the balm of Gilead, or like the ointment that ran down Aaron's beard, even to the hem of his garment. Thus have I met with the Lord, who was like heal- ing balsam to my soul. After this, being at a meeting at Oswego, I felt a motion on my mind to declare a sentence or two in JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 13 a public way; but the cross in my nature was against such a work, and a great struggle I had in me be- tween doing and omitting, and I did not give up to the requirings of Truth. A sense of my unfaithful- ness stuck close to me for several days, by which a greater willingness was wrought in my mind, and I came to a conclusion that if ever I felt the like mo- tion again I would endeavour to give up to it, let the consequence be what it might. After this con- clusion I felt more easy. It was several weeks after this before I was tried in that way again; when I felt as great unwillingness to give up as before; but dreading the consequence of disobedience, I at last gave up in great fear, and with dread on my mind, spoke these words, or to this import, " It is weightily on my mind to say, it is not by might nor yet by power, but it is by my spirit, saith the Lord." I expected to say something more b)' way of explaining the sentence; but a damp came over me as I stood, and I thought it was bet- ter to sit down short of what was before me than to speak without perfect clearness: so I sat down, and the meeting seemed to be in a solemn pause for some time. I felt great peace of mind all that day. The way became more easy with me afterwards, in regard to my public appearances, tho' still under the cross; and it is even so to this day, although I am now near- ly fifty-four years of age, and have been more or less exercised in that way by turns ever since. Now outward trials began to surround us. My oldest child, a fine promising daughter, about the age of two years and eight months, was taken with fits, which proved to be the falling sickness, and ruined 2 14 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. her, so that she was helpless almost all the time, till she was nearly nineteen years old, when she died. Another circumstance was discovered about this time: I found my father was so much in debt, that he must unavoidably sell his land to pay his debts, and there was no hopes of any thing being left for me, as I had expected; so that I should be under a necessity of moving somewhere, and had no money to settle myself with ; which was very alarming, being low in the world, and neither of our parents able to help us. After some time, I resolved to go to Sara- toga, a new settlement in Albany county. So in the fall of the year, I think in 1773, with the advice of some of my friends, I went to Saratoga, and bought the farm I now live on; which is now Easton, instead of Saratoga. In doing this I run myself above ninety pounds in debt. I went home and hired thirty pounds to make a payment — having a crop in the ground at Oswego, sufficient if it did well to answer the hired money. The next summer 1 went and put in a small crop on my new farm. It was all wilderness when I bought it, and I struck the first stroke with my own hands that was ever struck with a view of clearing it. I built a little log house on it, and went home and prepared for moving my famil}^ While this matter was coming about, another ex- ercising circumstance opened in view, which was the unhappy war between England and America. So that we were likely to be surrounded with difficulties, having a poor helpless child in our family, being in debt, and the expected distress of a tedious war; and what was more, there was no meeting of Friends nearer than East Hoosack, which was forty miles — the monthly meeting one hundred and ten miles, and JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 15 the Quarterly meeting, half the time one hundred and twenty, and the other half one hundred and seventy miles: so that we were likely to have very little benefit of meetings. But it happened about the time I bought there, that several Friends from Nantucket and Dartmouth came and bought also, so that by the time I moved my family, there were about seven families that were members of society; and Provi- dence so ordered it that we soon had a meeting amongst us, which was held at the house of Zebulon Hoxsie, my brother-in-law. I got here with my family the 26th of the 1st mo. 1775, And now we had to encounter with the many difficulties of settling in a new country, having an increasing family, — being in debt, and a terrible war at hand; for the first battle in the continental war was fought the summer after we moved. So when we looked at outward circumstances, things appeared very gloomy. In the 5th month, my father and mother, sister and brother, moved here also, into my house. So we went to work for our living, and attended our little meeting, which was held some time in proba- tion, but after a while it was settled by the monthly meeting. Then we built a log meeting-house, and the meeting increased fast by Friends moving from other parts. Our monthly and Quarterly meetings were at a great distance, and it usually fell to my lot to attend them twice, and soinetimes three times in a year; which was no small task under the cir- cumstances I was in; for by this time Friends were fined for their non-conformity to the warriors' re- quirings, and had their goods and stock distrained from them greatly to their damage. 16 JOURNAL OF RUFtrS HALL. In the year 1777, the war increased to a great de- gree. By two remarkable dreams which I had this summer, I thought I was apprized of some great trials that were coming. Not long after, we had the news that the English men-of-war were endeavouring to make their way from New York up Hudson river, and that a large army was marching under general Burgoyne from Quebec, in order to come down the river so as to meet and join the men-of-war, and by that means cut the country in two, and so overcome it; which put the people in a great consternation; and it actually proved to be so, so far as it was suf- fered by the over-ruling power; for general Burgoyne made a rapid march towards us, so that by midsum- mer he was within thirty miles of us to the north- ward, and the men-of-war had come up the river within about seventy or eighty miles. This was about the beginning of wheat harvest. Then did confusion appear in almost every face; and what made it more so, was, it was reported and was true, that general Burgoyne had many hundreds of the Indian natives; which struck a very great dread on the people in every place, and they prepared to flee as fast as possible, so that within four or five days after the army to the northward came within thirty miles of us, the people in our quarter were mostly gone, some one way and some another, taking with them all that they could, which yet was but little. They went in haste, some in wagons, others on horse- back, and others again on sledges on the bare ground, other some on trucks or carriages that run on a sort of wheels made with the end of a large log sawed off and holes made through the middle and put on axletrees — and many more fled away on foot as fast JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 17 as the)^ could, both men, women and children — all obliged to leave the greater part of their substance as to a living behind them, at the mercy of the enemy. Now Burgoyne came down within five or six miles of my house and made a stand, and the army lay within a few miles of us for several months, so that they, and the continental army, before the campaign was broken up, destroyed all that was left by the inhabitants and swept all clean before them. There were about ten or a dozen Friends' families and some few others, that stayed and stood the storm through, and we all suffered more or less by being plundered by both parties: for this little remnant of us lived on what the warriors called hunting ground; that is, partly between the two armies of general Gates and general Burgoyne. Although they plundered us, they did no great hurt to our persons, some few in- stances excepted. Not long after the English army made their stand here, the men-of-war that had got as far up the river as Esopus, went back again, and general Gates march- ed his army in order to attack the English, and came to Stillwater and made a stand there; so that the two opposite armies were so near one another that some of their encampments were within two miles of each other: and they lay in this sort two months or more, before they came to a general engagement. — ^ All this time, we were in a deplorable situation; for their scouting parties on both sides were almost every day at, or in sight of some of our houses, and we often heard them firing upon one another; but the skulking Indians seemed to strike the greatest dread, the more so because we could not converse with them: 2* 18 JOURNAL OF RTJFUS HALL. but they did not do so much damage by far, as to plundering, as our own people did. One day the Indians came to our meeting just as it was breaking up; but they offered no violence: their warlike appearance was very shocking, being equipped with their guns, tomahawks and scalping knives: they had a prisoner and one green scalp taken from a person they had killed but a few hours be- fore: but they went away without doing any violence. To give a relation of every trying circumstance that we were afflicted with this summer, 1777, would fill a volume; suffice it to say, things continued in this sort till about the middle of the 10th month, when the two armies came to a general battle, which began in the morning, the sun about two or three hours high, and lasted without any cessation till night; and in the night there was a continual roar of small arms, like the roaring of waters running down great falls and dashing against the rocks, besides hundreds of cannon were fired also. The wind being high that day, and to the westward, we could hear it very per- fectly, and even the smell of powder was perceivable. It was an awful day indeed, to consider of the great slaughter that must be made, and spilling of human blood, and all done by those that call themselves christians! — as opposite to a christian spirit, and to the very nature of the gospel dispensation, as dark- ness is to light. What a deplorable state is man- kind sunk into, that the eye of the mind should be- came so darkened that they will endeavour to recon- cile the great command to " love your enemies, do good to them that hate you and despitefuUy use you," with Hate them, kill and destroy them all that you JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 19 can! Is it not even a shame to the very name of a christian? Although Friends suffered much in their estates in this time of trouble, yet they suffered little bodi- ly punishment, except that some few were cast into prison upon supposition of being disaffected persons; but they were not detained long. Thus this storm of confusion ended; forBurgoyne was beaten, and was made willing in a few days to capitulate, and lay down his arms, and all dispersed, and we were favoured again with a sort of a calm. Although the war did not end till some years after, yet it did not rise to any great height afterwards in these parts. I have dwelt longer on this unpleasant subject of the troubles in the war, because there hath been a generation born and grown to be men and women since, that do not know the afflictions of their pa- rents in those times; and by reading these lines, they may have some idea, at least, of what their forefa- thers have undergone for their sakes, and for the sake of their testimony to the Truth, — that they may be encouraged to maintain the like testimony in their day and time; as it is not unlikely that some of them may have as great trials as we had, and may be greater. But I firmly believe the day is approaching that the lamb and the lion shall lie down together in peace; and the people shall beat their swords into ploughshares, and their spears into pruning hooks, and they shall learn war no more — for there will be no need of it — all men shall be at peace: then will universal love and good will subsist amongst man- kind in general. But there is a very great work to be done for and in man, before this will come to pass. 20 JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. I believe it will be brought about through the faithful labours and suffering of those that are enlightened with the day-spring from on high, and these dark fighters and warriors shall have no part nor lot in the work. Now I believed I had seen the end of my second dream; for the fight between the two armies was on the spot of ground that appeared in my said dream. There were many hundreds, if not thousands, slain, and many of them were not buried, or at least so poorly that their legs and arms were out of ground, and some quite naked, who lay and stank, — so that they were food for the crows and other ravenous birds and beasts. I shall now return fo other matters. After our troubles were somewhat over, Friends were so en- couraged that they came and settled in these parts so fast, that in a short time we rose from a little meet- ing to a preparative, and soon to a monthly meeting, held circularly at East Hoosack and Saratoga, forty miles distant: a meeting was also held on probation at Danby, forty miles northward of us. We had to attend monthly meeting every two months, forty miles — .sometimes to attend meeting at Danby, forty miles — ■ and once in three months to attend the Quarterlj' meeting at Oblong and Purchase; one of them one hundred and twenty, and the other one hundred and eighty miles from Saratoga. So that some of us were obliged to be from home a great deal of our time in attending meetings, — of which service the greatest part fell on my brother-in-law, Zebulon Hoxsie and myself. Yet, through the goodness of God, in all our difficulties and trials, we never wanted bread, nor suffered much for any necessary of life. But we were JOURNAL OF RUFTJS HALL. 21 obliged to be very industrious when at home, work- ing early and late for the support of our families. Friends increased fast in number in these north- ern countries, and things looked prosperous in the main; but I was not without some doubts at times, for I was sixty pounds in debt for my land, and by reason of the troublesome times, there was no like- lihood of paying it soon, and the interest going on; so that about the year 1780, I fell under discourage- ment for fear that by not paying my debt so soon as it was wanted I should bring a scandal on Ihe blessed Truth — and I came to a conclusion to sell my land if I could find a chance to better my circumstances. On hearing of land about thirty miles to the west- ward, at a place called Galway, that was to be let out on long leases, my brother and I with a number of others went to see the land; but it appeared to be so broken, and so heavy timbered, that we concluded not to take it up; so we came home: and not long after I sold fifty acres of my land, and gained so much by the sale that it set me clear of debt, for which my very soul did rejoice. I had remaining about eighty acres of land, and it looked likely I might shortly need more, for my family increased fast, and we had now six sons, good hardy boys; but I felt willing to trust that hand for future sustenance that had sustained us to this day. Although my sons have been partly necessitated to learn trades; yet they have been successful in their calling, and ap- pear likely to do well as to a living. 1 think there is much more satisfaction in seeing them industrious and prudent in getting an estate for themselves by their labour, than there is for parents to be much concerned to leave a great estate for their children 22 JOURNAL or RTTPUS HALL. who do not know the getting of it. How many mis- steps have I seen of this nature! Some entering in- to branches of great trade in order to help their chil- dren, which has nevertheless been a certain means of ruining both parents and children. The parents have thereby involved themselves so as to become - insolvent, and the children have proved prodigals, greatly to the shame of society and their own irre- parable loss. Others again, in good circumstances, have sold their small but convenient farms, and gone back in the woods, and bought new lands, on pur- pose that they might give each of their sons or chil- dren a good large farm; and thereby have put them- selves in old age under many difficulties of various kinds, and their children have lost ground in the best things by being taken away remote from meet- ings. Well, but some will sa)', surely it is right that some should trade, for trade is really useful to the community: and it is right also to cultivate the new countries, as it encourages industry and makes room for the next generation. I answer, these arguments are all good in their places; but then, let the j'oung man that hath little in the world — that hath good learning and good credit, and is capable, but yet weakly in constitution, trade; — and the hardy, well young man, go into the woods, and get him a farm sufficient to bring up a family; and let him go to work and pay for it. Such industrious, prudent peo- ple seldom fail of succeeding. This method being pursued, there would be no more complaints of old men becoming bankrupts and insolvent, or their children prodigals; or old men being benumbed in their limbs and senses by hard labour on new land JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 23 for their children; but all things of that nature would work in their proper channel. The trader would trade, because he had no other way to get his living; and the farmer would go into the woods to live be- cause of necessity; and if he got no more land than what he could occupy in the way of farming, it would remove another great burden that many lie under; and that is, the oppression of so much specu- lation which raises the price of new lands. It would becbme easy for a young man to settle in the new countries; yea, I plainly see while I am penning these observations, a long train of advantages that would arise by these hints being observed in gener- al. But suffice it to say, that it looks clear to me that mankind in general would be much happier both in this life and in that which is to come. After I got released from my discouragements, I attended our monthly and Quarterly meetings with diligence, and Friends increased in these northern parts very fast. I was often from home on Truth's ac- count— to visit meetings that were held under com- mittees, and to visit friendly people that had request- ed the care of Friends; — for there were many that became convinced of Friends' principles and joined in society with them: and it became necessary to set up meetings in many places where meetings had not been held before: «o that at this day, 1798, there are in these northern countries, a Quarterly meeting at Easton (formerly Saratoga) and four monthly meetings; Ea t Hoosack, Easton, Saratoga on the west side of the river, and Danby in Vermont. And in the compass of these monthly meetings, are eleven settled meetings for worship, besides divers that are held in a state of probation: the whole containing 24 JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. about three hundred families and parts of families of members. I have made this computation with a view to set forth the growth of Truth in this land; and although it hath been my lot to spend abundance of my time these twenty years and more in attending monthly, Quarterly and Yearly meetings — and in visiting the families of almost the whole Quarterly meeting, and also in visiting requesters, which required journeys of forty, eighty, a hundred, and even two hundred miles; yet when I take a view of my labours, I can- not conceive that I have been of any great service toward the propagation of Truth; but it rather seems to me, if there hath been any great service in gath- ering the people into the true sheep fold, it must be imputed to other Friends. Our friend Robert Nes- bit, deceased, hath been of eminent service in this work; he was a man of sound judgment, quick in ap- prehension, zealous for the cause of Truth, sharp in his testimony against sin and wickedness, yet very tender to those that were under trials and afflictions of any kind: so that I think at some times he might be called a son of thunder, and at others a son of con- solation. But the Lord hath taken him away in the prime of life, and it seems to me his departure is a great loss to Friends in these parts — though I have no doubt it is his eternal gain. On the whole, I conclude, that the work of refor- mation and the gathering of Friends in these parts, must be imputed to the divine assistance of the invisi- ble Power, and not really to any man. In the year 1792, an exercise came upon me which was very trying: I had drawings on my mind to vis- it Friends in New England — and the burden grew JOURNAL OF RUPUS HALL. 25 SO heavy that I could have no peace, and then I opened it to some Friends, who encouraged me in it. So I laid it before our monthly meeting and ob- tained their certificate in the forepart of the year 1793 — and it was endorsed at our Quarterly meet- ing at the Nine Partners in the spring following. About the 12th of the 8th month, 1 set out from home in company with my brother-in-law Zebulon Hoxsie — we went pretty cheerfully on to the Nine Partners in two days, and attended the Quarterly meeting — spent one day at my wife's father's, then went to the Branch on the Oblong, and were at their first-day meeting. 20th. We set out for Hopkinton, through Connecticut, which was a lonesome travel of three days' journey among the Presbyterians: but at last we arrived among Friends at Hopkinton, where we appointed a meeting; which was a great trial to me. Having never been much concerned in appoint- ing meetings before, I had many thoughts what might be the event of so weighty a matter. But seeing no way to avoid it without shrinking from what appear- ed to be my duty, I ventured to proceed; and when meeting time drew near the weight if it grew heavy, and I let in the reasoner in this sort: what if thou should be silent to-day, how wilt thou fare, seeing thou art a stranger here in these parts, and it is likely there will be divers that will attend who are not mem- bers amongst Friends, and they will be disappointed and dissatisfied, and call thee a fool or a crazy man! At best thy gift is but small: perhaps if thou says any thing, it will hardly give satisfaction; for thou knowest when travelling Friends appoint meetings, the people that attend generally expect a great deal of preaching. Such like reasonings had like to have 3 26 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. overcome my faith. But in the height of these cogi- tations, I rose up, left the house where I was and be- took myself to the fields, and so into the woods out of the sight of all men that I knew of, and there I poured out my spirit before the Lord in great hu- mility to this purpose: Lord, thou knowest the in- tegrity of my heart — thou knowest it was not in my own will that I undertook this journey; but it was in obedience to what thou gavest me to believe was a duty required of me. Thou knowest I have put my trust in thee, believing thou wouldst not require any thing without giving ability to perform the same. Now therefore, as I have hitherto trusted in thee alone, I beseech thee not to leave me in this trial: for it is in thy povver to sanctify my labour to thy honour and praise, whether it be to speak in public, little or much, or in being silent. And now I am resolved in that little faith thou hast given me, to attend the meeting, and there give all up into thy hand; for thou art best able to order it to thy hon- our, and that is all I seek. I matter not what men shall say of me — only vouchsafe to give me a sense of thy good presence, so that I may not sink under the weight of thy work. And the Lord was merci- fully pleased to give me a little strength, so that I went to the meeting, which was laborious in the forepart, but ended to good satisfaction. Next day we had a meeting at Westerly — an old decayed meeting and meeting-house; but it proved a good meeting to me, notwithstanding a right re- ligious concern amongst the few Friends in that place was, I think, at a low ebb. We then were at Rich- mond-town on first-day, and next day at the monthly meeting at South Kingston; both of which were labo- JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 27 rious limes, occasioned by a sense of the want of a living concern for the good of our Zion. Next we had a meeting at South Kingston, lower house, where the life of religion seemed very low, which made hard labour at first; but afterwards under a sense of some tender desires amongst the youth, I was favour- ed to detect the one and encourage the other. 28th. At Greenwich preparative meeting — which appeared to be in a low situation as to the life of re- ligion, and a great want of living concern among them. Next day, at Cranston — also a low time; yet there are a few at that place that are well concerned. Then had a meeting at Foster, to some satisfaction. Here I was straitened in breaking up the meeting; an aged, plain-looking man sat next to me, and I could not feel a perfect freedom to give him my hand; yet I did it. I was afterwards told he was not a member among Friends, but sat in the foremost seat and frequently had the care of breaking up the meeting. So then I did not wonder at my feelings about him, and could have wished I had kept closer to them. However, we advised Friends to be more faithful in maintaining order in their meetings — to hold them more in the power of Truth, and not suf- fer one that was not in full unity to have the order- ing or breaking them up. On the 31st, we had a good meeting at Scituate. The 1st of 9th month, and first of the week, we were at Providence — this meeting in the forenoon I thought was very lifeless, but it was some better in the afternoon. Next day, we were at Cranston monthly meeting — then rode to uncle John Green's at the Forge, and stayed all night with our aged uncle and aunt, who seemed very glad of our company. 28 JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. We then rode to Joseph Green's on Canonicut island: the family being relations were very glad to see us: and we attended their meeting to good satis- faction. Lodged at Joseph Green's, whose kindness to us I believe will not be easily forgotten. Their son Joseph and daughter Anne seemed as though they could not do too much. And here I may say, we found a whole family of honest hearted, plain Friends; which I think was the first of the like kind that we have met with since we came into New England: all which made our visit on this island very comfortable. Crossing the ferry to Newport on Rhode Island, we were at an adjournment of their monthly meet- ing, and went to see our very aged uncle, Ladowick Hoxsie, who appeared to be in low circumstances of life, health and strength, and almost a child again through old age — so we left some money in the care of our friend Thomas Robinson, to keep him from suffering as far as that would go, and took our leave, never expecting to see him again. We then went to Portsmouth, and next day had a meeting at Tiver- ton. An old straggling traveller that appeared to be hardly in his right mind, and very likely had been a teacher in some society and broke, came to the meeting and made much disturbance. After sleeping and snoring, he awaked and began to speak by way of preaching, and went on at a high rate. I expect- ed some Friend would silence him; but none did; till, at length, fearing he would ruin the solemnity of the meeting, I requested him to make as short of it as he could. He instantly took his seat, and soon appeared to be asleep again. So I had an opportu- nity to relieve my mind. But the old man waked again and began to speak in commendation of what JOURNAL OF RUPUS HALL. 29 had been delivered, more than 1 was willing to hear; so I broke up the meeting, and the people went out of the house while he was speaking, and left him till the last. I thought I had cause to be thankful for that day's work — having been favoured several ways. We spent a day at Little Compton, visiting some families; but it seemed to be dull work: so we went in company with our friend Jeremiah Austin, to Westport, and had a favoured meeting there — rested one day at Lovet Tripp's, writing letters home — then had a meeting at Centre, and were at Aponegan- sett preparative meeting. Friends here seemed to be in an easy way of doing business, so that we had some service amongst them — and our labour appear- ed to be kindl)^ received, and Friends generally glad we were there. Then went to Newtown preparative meeting; dull also, and very little care taken of dis- orderly walkers; so that we had more work to do at this place, and were favoured to get through to some satisfaction, at least to ourselves. We then went to Acoakset and attended their monthly meeting, where the life was very low; but through Divine favour it ended to satisfaction. Then we were at the first-day meeting at Little Compton, and the day following, at Aponegansett monthly meeting — here the savour of Truth arose into good dominion in the public service that I and my friend Stephen Buffington had therein; and it was lively in transacting the discipline; so that I think I may say, it was one of the best meetings we had been at since we came to New England. Having been at divers that were more or less cloudy, dull seasons to me, and now having clear sunshine, it seemed very com- fortable, and my heart felt thankful for this great 3 * 30 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. favour. After meeting we visited Thomas Hicks and wife, which I thought was time well spent; they being like a father and mother in Israel, and their conversation truly strengthening to me. Next day we were at Bedford monthly meeting. Lodged at our kind friend, William Rotch's — attend- ed a small meeting at the head of the river Accush- net, and another at Long Plain. Here are some hope- ful, well-concerned Friends, and I trust there will be a revival among them — although they have had a sifting time, occasioned by a public Friend's being disowned, who drew off divers others — but they even now are grown weary of their living. 21st. Had a laborious time at Falmouth; but thro' Divine goodness the meeting ended to satisfaction. Next day and first of the week, we were at Sand- wich— the meeting appeared dull and almost lifeless, which made it hard work for me, a stranger that came in much at unawares to them; yet I found a neces- sity to sound my little trumpet in a close manner amongst them, which relieved my mind, if it did no good to them. We then rode to Yarmouth, and had a meeting there — it seemed to me to be a little poor meeting, and few there that appeared to be livingly concerned for the prosperity of Zion. 25th. At the preparative meeting at Pembroke — which was small, and low as to the life of religion. After which we rode to our friend Thomas Rogers's at Marshfield, and stayed two days in that neighbour- hood, visiting some families. Before I came here, I expected to go from this place to Boston, and to a long train of meetings down below or eastward of Boston; but finding a stop in my mind as to pursuing my journey that way, it became trying to me to fiind JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 31 which way to go, or what to do. But endeavouring to keep the eye of my mind steadily on the cloud, at length it arose off the tabernacle and seemed to go toward Dartmouth Quarterly meeting, about fifty miles back where we had come from. This was con- trary to my expectation; but keeping my eye to the opening, it appeared clearer and clearer, until I be- came fully convinced of it — and there being several days to the time of the Quarterly meeting, we visit- ed some families in Hanover, and were at their first- day meeting at Pembroke, which I thought was a better meeting than the other I was at there — also was at an adjournment of their monthly meeting: then went to Long Plain, and attended their select preparative and monthly meeting of business, which was comfortable to me. After which we went to Aponegansett, or Dart- mouth, and attended the select and Quarterly meet- ings, to satisfaction; then rode to Dighton and were at their first-day meeting, where my mind was much pressed down under a sense of the great inconsisten- cy of appearance in the members of the society; which occasioned some close labour amongst them in a public manner; for I thought there was not much danger of exposing those that had exposed themselves so much already. After meeting, we rode to Swan- zey, and were at their monthly meeting; and next day went to Providence and dined at our friend Moses Brown's — then went to the Quarterly meeting at Smithfield,and attended the meeting of ministers and elders, and also the meeting for sufferings: all which were greatly to my satisfaction, and I felt thankful for the many favours received. Having observed the openings of Truth from the 32 JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. first setting out on this journey, as well as observed the shuttings thereof from time to time, I was now brought to a stand again, having Boston still in view; but I could not see my way clear to go that way, and being within three days' journey of home, my mind was drawn that way also. But feeling in a resigned state, all further service in the line of travelling from meeting to meeting at this time was taken off me: I felt greatly released, and the way homeward look- ed like clear sunshine. So we set out, and got home the 15th of the 10th month, having been gone a little more than two months, and attended about forty-four meetings. After my return, I had great peace and satisfaction for a long time. Sometimes I felt as though I had been new made over — and as if I had come out of one world of trouble and confusion, into another of joy and pleasure; and I enjoyed a good degree of heavenly peace and tranquillity. Now peace and plenty smiled on our land, and Friends increased fast in number as well as in wealth; an inclination to become rich in the things of the world prevailed; also entering into great trade, — running in debt, — laying out great business in the farming way, and erecting spacious houses and other buildings, now became very common; and striving to excel one another in grandeur, took up the time of people too much in general, and Friends were not clear, — which caused abundance of labour for honest Friends, by reason of too many neglecting the attend- ing of meetings, and being stupid and drowsy when there, and not paying their just debts, and divers other things that might be mentioned, occasioned a JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 33 general visit to Friends. At the Yearly Meeting held in New York in the 5th month, 1795, divers deficiencies came up in the answers to the Queries, and a concern arose that a reformation might take place in the society: a committee was appointed to attend the several Quarterly meetings, with advice that committees be appointed to visit all the families of Friends belonging to the Yearly Meeting. Pur- suant to this advice, the Quarterly meeting at Easton appointed a committee of fourteen Friends, men and women, to perform the visit. It appeared to be a very laborious task, by reason of the remoteness of many of the members, and what was more discour- aging, the great inability and weakness of mind in those that were appointed to that arduous task. — But believing, if it was rightly done, it might be of singular service, — there not having been such a vis- it since the settlement of Friends in this country, now more than twenty years, — the committee took courage to attempt the work, and met at Saratoga, on the west side of the Hudson; and after sitting to- gether to feel our strength renewed, four of us were given up to make trial, viz. Nathan Eddy and my- self, with Elizabeth Baker and Mary Dean. But Nathan Eddy being under a necessity to go home for a few days, Elijah French concluded to go with us until Nathan joined us. So we set out in great hu- mility of mind, and visited some families of that meet- ing,— then went to Greenfield and Galvvay. Here Nathan Eddy met us, and we visited a number of families, and then returned to the meeting of Sarato- ga, and so home; having been out about two weeks, and visited forty-nine families, we were much re- 34 JOURNAL OF RUPUS HALL. joiced in believing the work was owned by the great Master. The 19lh of the 11th mo. we again proceeded on the service at Saratoga, and visited divers families for the space of two days. At length we came to where a family lived, or rather stayed, in a little smoky hut, and not a chair to sit on; so we sat down, some on the bed, or such place as they slept on, some on tubs, and some on pumpkins, and the small children on the floor. After we had sat awhile, Nathan Eddy spoke to this import. That he had heard of a heaven and a hell, here on the earth; but that this did not seem much like heaven, living in this house. Where- upon I was much troubled, for fear he was too light in his mind; and as I was grieving about it, it came livingly into my mind that there was a better heaven and a worse hell in this world, than living in a good or a bad house; and that was a sedate, peaceful mind, or a discontented and quarrelsome one; and was led to show the advantage of the one and the disadvan- tage of the other: so that before the sitting ended, I got over my jealousy for my friend Nathan, believ- ing there was a hand of Providence in it; and it seemed to learn me not to judge before the time. — We were afterwards told, the man of the house was a drunken, quarrelsome person, and was sometimes abusive to his wife. We went on from house to house, sometimes tried one way and sometimes another, and yet were pre- served to our great admiration; and then set out to visit some families that lived scattering and remote from the meeting at Saratoga, to which they belong- ed, at a place called Newtown, and one in Balltown. JOURNAL OF RUPUS HALL. 35 We were out at this time eight days, and visited twenty-six families. 22d of 2d mo. 1796, I set out with Mary Dean and Elizabeth Baker to visit Friends about Lake Chamjjlain, it being about one hundred and fifty miles to the furthest settlements. We rode about forty miles to our friend Aaron Hill's, who went with us the next day; and in two days we got to Vergennes, to the house of our friend Thomas Rob- inson; and then went on to Peru, where we visited several families. Then set out for the Grand Isle, or South Hero, and visited all the families on that island, which were about nine in number; and we had to believe there was a precious seed there, which will be preserved as Friends continue in faithful obe- dience to known duty. So we left the island, and went on the ice up the river Lamoile, about seven miles, to Milton, and then set off for Ferrisburg — visited some families on the vvay, and had some ser- vice in the monthly meeting at Ferrisburg. Here we visited several families, and then went to Monk- ton; and having gone through this neighbourhood, we set out for Bristol. There we visited two fami- lies, being all there were in the place: then attended meeting at Ferrisburg, and visited some families, which was the last of our labours in that country. Now having gone through all the families about Lake Champlain, being seventy and more, we were at liberty to return home. So we set out the 22nd of 3d mo. and in three days and a half we reached Samuel Dean's in Queensbury, and next day came home, and felt truly thankful, having been out about five weeks. 29th of 8th month. I set out with Nathan Eddy to 36 JOURNAL OF EUFUS HALL. visit the Friends of Queensbury, about thirty miles from my house. There Ruth Hull, wife of Daniel, and Elizabeth Dean, late Baker, joined our com- pany in the service. In some families we had hard labour; a worldly spirit having too much place in the minds of several Friends, who being so much taken up with the cares of this life, could hardly find time to attend religious meetings; and by giving way to the enemy from time to time, some had be- come so blinded that they saw but little necessity of attending meetings. Whence other disorders had crept into families, and amongst the youth; such as going from plainness, which often leads to keeping company, and marrying out of the unity of Friends. Our women Friends not being well able to travel with us so far, we two men went and visited some families at a new place called Thurman's patent, and then came back to Queensbury and visited several other families. We then came home, having been gone about twelve days, and visited thirty-one fami- lies. 5th of the 10th month, I set out with my wife's sister, Alice Hoxsie, to attend the monthly meeting at Danby, and to visit the families of Danby meeting. We had in this visit the company of Stephen Rogers and Lydia Kelly. Then went to Sharon and Straf- ford, and visited the few Friends of those places. — We also took a few families on our way homewards; and were gone about three weeks, having rode two hundred miles, besides going from house to house. The 5th of the 1st mo., 1797, my friend Nathan Eddy and I set out to visit Friends at Pittstown, and Reuben Peckham concluded to go with us. We were gone from home about a week, and visited JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 37 twenty and more families. Some little time after, my wife and sister Alice, with her husband, Zebulon Hoxsie, and myself, visited the families of Friends in Cambridge, which took two days, wherein I had good satisfaction in the main; this was in the latter part of winter, 1797. In a few months after this, Nathan Eddy and I visited the families of Friends at White Creek, which took about eight days. The Lord preserved us through all, and we returned home with great peace of mind. After I got through this arduous task of visiting families, another great exercise came upon me: I had some sense of it at times divers years before; but now more powerfully I felt a stream of love to run towards Friends, and some of the Baptists, Metho- dists and Indians, in the Western Territories, Gen- esee, Niagara and Oswegatchie countries. So in due time I laid my concern before our monthly meeting, and obtained their full concurrence in a certificate for that purpose in the 4th month, 179S, and also the concurrence of our Quarterly meeting in the 5th mo. following. But before proceeding on this visit, I had some close exercises at and about home. In our meeting at Easton, at one time I had hard digging to get down to the spring of the waters of life; and my mind was borne down under a painful sense of earthly-mind- edness. But as I was favoured to continue wrestling till the break of day, I witnessed life to spring up to my refreshment and renewed encouragement. In this state, it was opened to my mind, that " blessed are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness; for they shall be filled." Not that they may be; for the promise is sure, and never fails when the mind 4 38 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. is sincere, wrestling and waiting in faith, nothing doubting. But it seemed to me that too many in the meeting were in a low, languid state of mind, and ready to say, " Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out." In the 4th month, I attended the funeral of Eliza^ beth Cook, daughter of Leonard Cook; and she hav- ing been a steady, exemplary young woman, there were many of the neighbours and friends attended. Our friend, Stephen Buffington, of Aponegansett in New England, who had lately recovered from a sick- ness which had confined him at Danby all the winter past, now coming to Easton, was at this funeral, and was remarkably favoured in testimonj^ among us. It was indeed a very solemn opportunity, at the close of which my soul was bowed in supplication to Al- mighty God, that he would carry on his own work, as he is all wisdom, power and strength, and seeing that without his Divine assistance we poor instru- ments can do nothing. In the 5th month, as I was returning from our meeting, in which our friend Abiel Giflbrd had an encouraging testimony, I fell in company with a wo- man Friend whose husband being rather of internper rate habits had sold his farm, and was about to move his family into the new country of Chenango, about one hundred and forty miles from this place, and a great way from any Friends' meeting. This was a very great trial to his wife, who appeared to be a sincere-hearted Friend, and I felt much sympathy with her in her exercised, afflicted condition; so that after parting with her, my mind became greatly ten- dered in fervent prayer to God for her preservation in the Truth. Under this exercise, I thought I saw JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 39 in the light, that the Lord would gather a people to his praise somewhere not far from where that woman Friend was going to settle; and I felt a freedom to make this record of my thoughts and' the openings on my mind concerning the spreading of Truth in the western parts of the state of New York, whether I ever live to see it or not. 9th of 6th mo. Having had it on my mind to visit the meeting of Friends held at Pittstown, I set out in company with my friends, Zebulon Hoxsie and John Gilford; and next day attended their meeting. It was a low time with me in the fore part; but at length a little life arose and gradually increased, so that I was favoured to clear myself fully, and to my own satisfaction and peace. After this, feeling some draft of love to visit some friendly people at a place called Petersburg, about nine or ten miles from Pitts- town, I gave up in simplicity of heart to go, and was accompanied by John Gilford and our friend Simeon Brovvnell. When we got within two or three miles of the place, it opened in my mind that it would be right to have a public meeting among those friendly people, which brought a great weight over me; but I said nothing about it till we got to the house of one of them ; where we were very kindly received. Then I told them what had been on my mind for some miles; and the man and his wife appeared much rejoiced, saying, they believed there would be entire freedom among their neighbours to attend such a meeting; and that they would do all they could to spread no- tice. So we lodged there; and the next day had a highly favoured meeting among them: in which doc- trine flowed with great strength and clearness, much to my satisfaction and peace. Blessed be the Lord 40 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. forever: lie is leading me and instructing me accord- ing to his good pleasure, to be faithful to small mo- tions of life as well as greater discoveries of his Truth. 6th mo. 12th. In contemplating the many favours I have received of latter years, I felt truly thankful to the Father of mercies for his gracious dealings with me. He hath led me safely through the vari- ous dispensations allotted me, and conducted me in paths which I knew not; that I might behold his power in my preservation, and acknowledge that it was all of his mercy and goodness; to whom alone the praise is due. I also remember a season some years past, when the Lord seemed to hide his face from me, and as it were to close his ears from hearing my cries. It was a time of great poverty of spirit, for about the space of three years; in which I was closely tried with a state of darkness, stupidity and drowsiness; insomuch that sometimes when I came out of meetings, I almost came to the conclusion to decline going any more. It seemed to me as if the Lord had left me to the buffetings of satan, and that he would never more favour me with the smiles of his countenance. This led me to examine and consider what I had done to offend him; but I could not discover any thing in particular. So great was my trouble at times, that when alone, I have cried out, Lord what have I done to offend thee in such a manner that thou shouldst thus forsake me? If I perish, Oh! let me perish at thy feet. But in all this time his preserving power was un- derneath and kept me from sinking, though I per- ceived it not. There was a something always so close to me, that when meeting day came, I felt wil- JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 41 ling to go again, though perhaps again as closely tried as before. Yet there were a few intervals du- ring this trying dispensation, when the Divine pres- ence unexpectedly broke in upon me and was power- fully felt; so that I concluded I was not altogether forsaken of the Lord. But although this season of fasting in spirit seemed long, yet have I been pre- served through all to this day. And now the Lord is feeding me daily with spiritual food, by which my soul is animated and encouraged to diligence in his service, and therein feel a sweet satisfaction as the reward of my labours. 0 ye poor, tried souls, give not out. There is j^et balm in Gilead, which will heal all your wounds and sores, as ye stand fast in the faith of Jesus Christ. 14th. Attended our monthly meeting; but it was to me a day of much close exercise in relation to setting out on my religious visit westward. The way not being open for the Friend who had propos- ed to go with me as a companion, occasioned a great trial to my mind. I seemed to myself like a vessel lying in the dock loaded and ready to go to sea, but waiting for a convoy, and therefore not tit for any service at home. However, as I endeavoured to sub- mit to this disappointment, and patiently wait the Lord's time, which I have found to be the best time, the next morning my friend Matthew Rogers came and offered his service to go with me as a companion in this journey. After some conversation^ [ felt quite easy to accept his kind offer, he being well concerned and exemplary in his deportment. Being thus en- couraged; and after taking a solid opportunity with, my dear wife and family, I parted with them in great tenderness, and we set out on (he 16th of the 6th mo. 4* 42 JOURNAL OK RUFUS HALL. 1798; went on to our friend William Barker's at Ballstown, and next day, being first of the week, we attended Friends' meeting there; in the latter part of which, some life arose and I was favoured in a good degree to relieve my mind. ISth. In company with William Odell, a minister, of Ballstown, we attended a meeting appointed at a place called Charlton, among a few tender-hearted, seeking people; some of whom were Baptists, and others had been brought up among the Presbyterians. It was a very satisfactory opportunity, in which gos- pel doctrines flowed freely towards them, to my ad- miration and peace of mind: William Odell also had good service there. That evening we came to the house of our friend Job Briggs at Duanesburg; and next day, had a trying meeting at that place; in which the spring of life seemed so much shut up that I had to wade as it were in the deeps in answering the requirings of the heavenly Master. 20th. Had a meeting about six miles north of Duanesburg, which proved to be a very satisfactory one. A free flow of gospel love attended, in which I laboured to the great ease and encouragement of my mind; having had a deep trial the day before about appointing a meeting at that place: but it ended so well that I was strengthened to put by all reasonings, and went on to Charlestowi>, parting with William Odell who had been truly helpful to me thus far, having a good and convincing gift in the ministry in which he laboured faithfully while with us. The loss of this dear friend's company seemed rather trying to me; but being fully sensible that I must not put my trust in man, I said in my heart, If the Lord be on our side, whom shall we fear? Thus, feeling his owning hand to be with JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 43 US, we had a meeting in a school-house next day, to good satisfaction. 22nd. We had a meeting in another school-house about five miles northward, but the service was some- what marred by the late and irregular gathering of the people, owing to a want of care in spreading no- tice. It is a great pity that people who undertake to give notice of such meetings should be so careless as not to spread proper and general information. On first-day, the 24th, we had a meeting at Sharon, in Thomas Almey's barn: the people being mostly Pres- byterians and Baptists, I had to labour in the minis- try to convince them of the usefulness of silently attending to their own gifts within, of which they seemed to be much ignorant. After this meeting, which ended to satisfaction, we went to visit a woman Friend who lived seven miles from any other mem- bers of our society. We found her in a lonesome condition, but glad to see us; and after a solid oppor- tunity with her and her husband, we returned to Thomas Almey's. While here sitting in the house, my mind was reduced to a state of great poverty; and seeing a book lying near me, I opened it, and finding it to be the Journal of John Woolman, I read four or five pages: in which I found such encourage- ment that I closed the book with joy in my heart, and took fresh courage in God. In the afternoon we set out for Otego, and lodged at the house of a friend- ly man in Cherry Valley, who with his wife enter- tained us kindly; yet I felt somewhat uneasy, lest they should think we rather crowded on them for entertainment, in order to save our money; being there among strangers. I told them this was not the case; but that I had a concern on my mind to visit 44 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. the scattered members of our society, as well as some other well inclined people in those wilderness lands; and hearing of him, we had thus come to see him; which he seemed to take kind: and next morning as we sat at breakfast, a solemn covering was brought over us, and it proved a good season to all present; so that I left them well satisfied with the visit. We went on to Cooper's-town, where we stopped to let our horses rest a little; during which we went to see a widow woman with whom we had some se- rious discourse concerning the spiritual warfare. Di- vine light and life attending, although we were out- wardly strangers, we felt the unity of the spirit flow freely, and the woman was greatly tendered, though quite fashionable in her dress and appearance. Thus the Lord opened the way for service unseen by us, and carried us through it by his Divine wisdom; leading his dependant children safely on in a way they knew not: blessed be his name forever. 26th. We had a meeting, at Otego; then went to my brother. Green Hall's at Oxford; and after rest- ing a few days, we had a large meeting in his bai'n on first-day, considering it was a newly settled place. In this meeting I felt much engaged to lay before the people the necessity and usefulness of attending to the inward Teacher, as being far preferable to any outward teaching whatever, and more certain than that of ministers, books, or even the scriptures them- selves,— the inward Teacher being the only criterion to prove them all by. Next day, had another meet- ing about six miles westward, near Chenango river; it was small, yet I thought was owned by the good Master. We then returned to my brothers, and were detained several days on account of my companion's*. JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 45 horse not being fit to travel: so I went to work, being loth to spend any of my time unprofitably. 7th mo. 6th. We set forward in company with my brother Green and his wife about seven miles up the Unadilla river, where we had a meeting at Matthew Corkin's, a Methodist, in the town of Norwich. It was exercising in the fore part, but the Lord was pleased to manifest his owning presence toward the conclusion; for which I was thankful. My sister Lydia Hall returning home, the rest of us went on and lodged at the house of a friendly man named Young Smith. Next morning we had a tendering opportunity in the family, which seemed like a seal to m}^ mind that the Lord was with us. So we set out with renewed courage, and travelled through very bad roads about twenty-four miles further up the river, to a place called Brookfield. In this neighbourhood I had a prospect of finding several members of our society, and was not disappointed. We found a num- ber of Friends settled here, and on first-day had a considerably large meeting with them and others, in Stephen Hoxsie's barn. This opportunity was emi- nently owned of the heavenly Master, and my mind was livingly opened in setting forth the necessity and advantage of attending diligently to the gift of Divine grace, as the principal thing to depend on to show us the right way for us to walk in, and to unfold all Divine mysteries to our minds, needful for us to know, as appertaining to our duty towards God; and that without this criterion we could not understand even the scriptures in a right sense: neither can any preach the gospel, nor yet be rightly benefited by hearing the gospel preached, without it. These things were opened with great clearness and satisfaction to 46 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. my own mind, and I believe Truth reigned over all that day. The people were very orderly, still and attentive, especially while I was declaring the truth among them; it may indeed be called a blessed meet- ing that will not soon be forgotten. At the conclusion I desired those that did own and hold themselves to be members of our society, to keep their. seats, and favour me with an opportunity of conference with them. I was not a little surprised when I saw the number that remained; and on con- ferring with them, found there were more than thirty in the neighbourhood who had a right among Friends.. Divers of them had lived there some years, and were not under the notice of any monthly meeting that they knew of. When they removed into that settle- ment, it was so remote from Friends that they knew not what monthly meeting would own them. Their situation excited my sympathy; and we gave them advice, and wrote a few lines to Hudson monthly meeting, it being the nearest, setting forth their case as needing brotherly assistance and care. So we parted from them in tender love, and travelled thir- ty-two miles by way of Paris Hill, Clinton,, and Stockbridge, to Oneida, an Indian town; where we found five Friends (three men and two women) from Pennsylvania; the men endeavouring to instruct the Indians in husbandry and smithing, and one of the women Friends was teaching some of the female In- dian children to read, sew, knit, &c. We tarried all night with them, S3M'npathizing with and encouraging them in their arduous task. Next day we took our leave of them and travelled on toward the Genesee country, passing through another Indian town; and in the evening arrived at an inn near Onondaga, where jrOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 47 We lodged. Next morning, the inn-keepei* having told us there were some of our sort of people lived not far off, we went back about a mile and a half to see them. The woman was a member, and I thought a valuable one, the husband not, though a tender, sincere man: both of them were very kind to us; and I concluded to have a meeting there next day; which was accordingly held, being chiefly composed of women, it being a very busy time among the men, though a number were present. The Lord's pres- ence was felt, and as I was declaring the Truth to them, I was led to speak of the convictions that strike the mind when any one puts forth a hand to steal, also to set forth the heinous nature of such an act. As I dwelt on this subject, I noticed that sev- eral appeared to be so struck as to hang down their heads. This gave me some uneasiness lest they should suppose I was judging them as being addicted to thievery: so to obviate that thought, I told them that the same light which showed them it was wrong to steal, would, if faithfully followed and obeyed, lead them into all truth; which was the subject then be- fore me. After meeting, I was told that a man was there, who had been convicted of stealing, and con* fessed it a few days before; and that was the reason of what I observed, as the man sat very near me. — So it appeared that my testimony was like a two- edged sword, cutting both ways; blessed be the Lord for all his wonderful favours to a poor instrument in his hand: and let all the glory be ascribed to him forever and ever. 13th. We left our friends Phineas Tyler and wife, in a tender state of mind, and travelled toward the Genesee country. Next day we came to my 48 JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. cousin John Green's, and visited several families in the neighbourhood; and the day following went on our journey, till we came to the remarkable sulphur springs, where we stopped and viewed these won- derful works of nature. Here we observed several large springs near together, which send forth their waters out of the bowels of the earth; and as they run down the hill and rocks, collecting in a stream below, much of the water evaporates, leaving the sulphur in such quantities that cart loads might be gathered. A great portion of this appears to be genu- ine brimstone, which may be used for such pur- poses as it is needed. After we had satisfied our curiosity in seeing this wonderful work of Divine Providence, we went on to Nathan Comstock's in the town of Farmington, in which Friends mostly reside, and lodged there. 16th. On our way to see our friend Abraham Lapham, passing by a house I felt a motion to go in, which I mentioned to my companion. We went in and found two women and some small children, with whom we sat down in silence, till my mind was Divinely favoured to speak of such things as arose; and which they seemed to receive with seri- ousness; so we parted with them in tenderness, and went to Palmyra to lodge at Abraham Lapham's. Next day we visited Caleb Macomber and wife, — then Jeremiah Smith and family; and on the 19th attended their meeting, which was on the whole a favoured opportunity. Next day we were at an ap- pointed meeting about seven miles from Farming- ton, among the Methodists and Baptists. In this meeting I was engaged in gospel labour in such a remarkable flow of love towards the people, that I JOUKNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 49 was under some difficulty to keep steadily on the right ground in my communication. We afterwards visited several families of Friends, and again attend- ed the meeting at Nathan Comstock's, which was a very trying season. 1 laboured among them in a close, searching manner, and felt peace in the discharge of my duty. We then visited some other families, and had an opportunity with a largo number of young and some elderly people, wherein the life flowed freely in counsel lowards them. In the night fol- lowing I awoke, and a concern revived which I had felt towards a young woman whom I saw some days before at a Friend's house. I had expected to leave the settlement in the morning; which brought on a close exercise lest I should go away leaving some- thing undone that I ought to have done. So when morning came, way opened for me to write her a few lines, which gave me ease, so that I felt perfectly clear to leave the Genesee settlement; and we pur- sued our journey towards Buflalo creek, about thirty- eight miles. Lodged at an ordinary, and set out next morning to go through the woods about thirty-two miles, to a town called Tonnewanto. After we had got about one-third of the way through the wilder- ness, it began to thunder and rain, which continued about four hours; during which we travelled through divers swamps and low grounds till we were exceed- ing wet and muddy: yet we were favoured to reach the Indian town in safety, by about two hours sun; where many of the Indians came out of their wig- wams to look at us, and seemed good natured. They kindly showed us the way to a sort of an inn kept by a Frenchman, where we lodged: but the company of travellers there were very profane, and worse than 5 50 JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. the Indians, who were very civil, and came in to see us, but I could not converse with them, except by signs, and these I was not certain they understood. 25th. Set out and travelled near thirty miles thro' the uninhabited wilderness (although we met with several Indians who appeared glad to see us) till we came to a ferry at the outlet of lake Erie. In cross- ing this ferry, we asked the boatman if he could tell us where any of our friends lived on the west side of the lake. He directed us to Abraham Webster's, about five miles, where we arrived in good season, and felt truly thankful that we were again among our friends after three days' journey through the dreary wilderness. After resting one day, we pro- ceeded to visit a number of families in the settle- ment; and had a remarkably solid and satisfactory opportunity in the family of a friendly man, named Adam Burwell. The Divine presence did so evi- dently favour us all that tears of joy, as well as coun- sel flowed freely to our great encouragement and strengtii. Thanks be to the Lord forever, for his wondei ful love and mercy. So we parted in much tenderness and with tears, and came to the house of a Friend, where we lodged: but it was a trying night to me. Before we came here, we had given out word for a public meeting at a Friend's house; but now we were informed of much uneasiness that appeared be- tween paid Friend and his neighbours, and great dis- unity among Friends in this settlement. This grieved me so much that I was almost ready to repent that I had appointed the meeting, lest I might be the means of strengthening them in something that was wrong; so great was my exercise that I slept but lit- tle that night. Next morning, the 2Sth, we visited JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 51 another Friend and his family at Point Ebeno, where we heard something of the same complaint. Thence to another Friend's family, where the complaint of the other party was detailed to iis in like manner. — This still increased my exercise, and my load of grief, though I was favoured with renewed strength to bear up under it. 29th. We attended said meeting which was large, many of the neighbours coming in; and I had a high- ly favoured time in gospel testimony among them. After the public meeting, I had a select opportunity with Friends, in which I had some close, trying work; returning on their own heads what they had loaded me with; and telling them that if they did not endeavour to become reconciled to one another, they would dwindle and come to nothing — I also desired of them in future never to divulge such things to strangers, and especially to travelling public Friends. I also pressed upon them to endeavour to settle the matter, if possible, even now before they parted: which they did, and brought about an amicable set- tlement, and a good degree of unity was restored. — So I had cause to be thankful for the favour, and lodged that night at Asa Schooley's where the meet- ing was held. Next day we visited the families of John Cutler, John Herrit and Joel Morris. The day following, in company with our young friend Abraham Laing, we set out to visit some Friends and friendly people at a place called Short Hills. On the vvay, we stop- ped to see the wonderful works of the hand of Provi- dence, at the falls of Niagara. When we came within about three miles of the great falls, on looking toward the outlet of the lake, we discovered a large body of 52 JOURNAL OF RTJFUS HALL. mist or fog arising therefrom, whicii ascended to a great iieight in tiie air. On drawing nearer, we ob- served the stream or current of the water to run more rapidly, and with great swiftness, till it came within half a mile of the grand pitch or ledge of rocks; and then the waters were so hurried down what seemed as a rocky hill, that they became rolled up as in large heaps, with such a roar and foam that it was like a lather of soap-suds, and so run to the top of the clift of rocks where it fell off, about one hundred and sixty feet perpendicular, all in one solid column of water, in the form of a semicircle, as near as I could judge of the space of about half a mile in length. It then met an island in the lake, perhaps twenty rods in width, beyond which another column of water gushes over the ledge in like manner as the other, only it is straight and forms no curve. We went down to the very rock over which the water falls, and stood and looked off, or down into the pit or cavern where tlje water fell. But Oh! the awfulness and amaze- ment which I felt! I have no characters or language that can describe the sight to any person who has not seen it; neither is it possible, I believej for any one to conceive one half of the great wonder, or the great body of smoke or mist it casts up, — so thick that no eye can penetrate it; and there appears to be many acres of the river entirely of a white foam. As I was looking on this marvellous work of the Al- mighty hand, I thought what man in the world could behold this place, and contemplate it but a moment, and yet deny the existence of a Supreme Being? surely not one on earth. 8th mo. 1st. We went to Pelham, or Short Hills, and appointed a meeting to be held next day; which JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 53 we accordingly attended; but it was to me a low time as to the feeling of that life which crowns such op- portunities. I however endeavoured to ease my mind of what I felt as a duty, and got some satisfaction. Here I tliink it right to give some account of a remarkable deliverance of the hand of Providence, which happened, as I was informed, about six years before. A terrible hurricane raged in this place to such a degree that it blew down and destroyed all the timber for thirty miles in length and one mile in width: insomuch that I could not discover one tree of any bigness that stood whole. It was also so violent for another mile in width that it destroyed about one half the timber; and at that time and in this place, there lived ten or a dozen families, whose houses were all shattered, and some of them blown down and entirely ruined; yet not one person was slain among them, although several were hurt. One man was riding the road in the most dangerous spot, where the timber was very thick, and every tree was torn down around him; yet they fell so across logs and large roots of trees, that they were kept up from the ground in such a manner that neither the man^ nor his horse was killed, though they were both hurt. But he was obliged to remain in his deplorable situa- tion all night (it being in the afternoon when the storm happened) and till some time in the next day; when some of his neighbours came and helped him o«t. The people were so affrighted that several of them told me they were not sensible of hearing any trees fall: and after the awful storm was over and the wind had ceased, they endeavoured to go to see how it had fared with one another; — each supposing that their neighbours and friends were slain in the tem- 5 * 54 JOURNAL OF RUPUS HALL. pest. But when they met, it was with weeping for joy that their lives were preserved. The remains of the destruction were to be seen when I was there, and I thought it so remarkable a deliverance that it ought to be recorded, inasmuch as it evidently mani- fested the wonderful mercy of the great Preserver of mankind. We visited a number of Friends and friendly people in their families, and attended a meeting ap- pointed at Stanford, which was a large gathering, consisting of a few Friends, some Methodists, and many others who never before had been at a Friends' meeting. These not knowing the usefulness of silent waiting, were very uneasy in the time of silence, which was a trial, to me; but I endeavoured to abide in the patience, and hope to the end. At length, I trust, in the Lord's time, I was raised in a good de- gree of life to declare the Truth to them in such a manner that it brought a profound silence over the meeting. I was led to show them the usefulness and efficacy of attending to their own gifts, or the light of Christ within them. Although it was a new doc- trine to many of them, yet they were willing to acknowledge it was a great truth, and too much ne- glected. We lodged with Jeremiah Moore, who went with us next day to see William Lippincott and Samuel Becket, who lived about eighteen miles from thence, having lately come from the Jersies. They received us kindly, and I thought if they kept their places, they might be useful to the little flock of Friends in those countries, or the two little meet- ings now begun in those parts. Sth of 8th mo. In company with our friend Wm. Lippincott, we went to Queenstown, and agreed for JOURNAL OF RUFXJS HALL. 55 a passage in the packet to Kingston, it b^ing about one hundred and sixty miles by water on lake On- tario. Next day we went on board, and sailed in the afternoon; but got little sleep the night following by reason of a company of loose drunken men who were very noisy: which led me to consider what a pitch of hardness and unthoughtfulness men may arrive at by keeping bad company. Who that is concerned for his children's welfare, can consent that they should follow a sailor's life for a livelihood in this world? On the 13th we landed at Kingston, and went thence on foot about four or five miles to our friend Aaron Brewer's. We were much fatigued by being on board the packet, and having hard lodging four nights, with loose company, and some of us being sea-sick; but were kindly received and refreshed by our friends Aaron Brewer and his wife; with whom we rested a day or two: then attended a meeting appointed at their house, which was large for this wilderness country, being made up of a few Friends, and others of. various denominations. But all were quiet, and I had an open lime to declare Truth among them. Thanks be to the great Master of our assem- blies for his manifold mercies, saith my soul. Next day we rode to the Bay of Quinty to the house of John Borland, and the day following visited the fami- lies of James Noxen and Reuben Beadel, a friendly man. We also made several other religious visits to families, and on the 19th, being first-day, had a meet- ing at Philip Borland's, which I tliought was a fa- voured time. We then crossed the bay in company with Philip Borland and James Noxen to West-lake, where we visited the family of Jacob Cronck; but it was a low time with me. Our friend James Noxen,. 56 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. being in the ministerial line, laboured with some success, for which I felt thankful. , 22nd. Attended a meeting we had appointed at the house of Cornelius Blount, and I thought it a fa- voured one, though I was yet so low in mind as to be entirely silent; but James Noxen was much fa- voured in testimony, though not yet a recommended minister, but in unity with Friends. Next day, after visiting another family, we went to a place called Grassy Point, in order to visit the few Friends there. Had sittings with them to some satisfaction, although it was still low water with me. I compared myself to a vessel that was endeavouring to make the best of her way with a small wind, so that one could but just discern that she got along at all. But I endea- voured to be as well contented as I could, seeing 1 could be no otherwise, and believing that my heaven- ly Father knew what was best for me at all times. After visiting another family, we again crossed the bay, and lodged at David Barker's. 26th. We again attended the meeting at Philip Borland's, in which I was silent as to public testi- mony. 1 thought the people might see that the Lord's ministers could not preach at any time when they would have them. So I felt easy in mind, and willing to be disposed of as my heavenly Master should see best. Next day visited Daniel Haight's family to good satisfaction, a little stream of gospel love flowing freely towards them. 28th. We set out for Kingston; feeling myself fully clear of these parts, and seeing nothing but that I might soon proceed homewards; so we came to Aaron Brewer's that night. Next day visited Joseph Farris's family; and the night following was taken JOURNAL OF RUPUS HALL. 57 unwell with an ague and fever, which was very try- ing to me. On the 31st, feeling fully clear of this part of the world, I was easy to return homewards; and on considering in what way to proceed, we at length concluded to take passage by water in a small boat. So we wrote to our friend Jeremiah Moore, at Niagara, who had our horses in keeping, to sell them, and after satisfying himself for his trouble, to transmit the balance to us. 1st of 9th mo. We took leave of our friends, and went on board the boat; got on about eighteen miles to Grenadier island, and lodged on the ground, there being no inhabitants on the island; but making a good fire, and having blankets and sail cloth to cover us, we fared tolerably well. Next day, we continued our voyage along the lake shore, and at night again lodged on the ground; but the ague and fever again seizing me, I got but little rest. Yet I was borne up, I trust, with a good degree of patience, under it all, and the company were very kind to me. 3d. Pursuing our course along near the shore, we arrived at Oswego some time after night-fall, being about eighty miles from Kingston. Here we had good entertainment at a tavern, and next morning felt refreshed, having missed my chill. Then taking our way up Oswego river, we got forward only eleven miles all day, by reason of the many rapids and shal- lows. At night we got to a sort of hause or cabin; but the ague seized me again with a harder fit than before; and though we had to sleep on the floor, it was better than no shelter at all. In the morning the boatmen hired some men to carry our boat on wheels till we ppssed the falls; then took to the water again till we came to Oneida river, and up that some dis- 58 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. tance: lodged on the ground in the woods, it being uninhabited here also. Next day we passed through Oneida lake, and in the evening came to the mouth of Wood creek, where we lodged at an inn. 7th. We took our rout up Wood creek with great difficulty by reason of the many shallow places, but got forward about eighteen miles. At night, had a good house and bed to lodge in, but my disorder now seizing me every night, I could get very little rest: and my bodily strength failed so much that I could not walk without help from the boat to the house. My appetite also failing, it was a low, trying time to me; yet the kindness of my companion, as well as the rest of our company, seemed to mitigate my sufferings. Next day, passing fort Stanwix, and through two locks and a canal, we entered the Mo- hawk river; and thus with much difficulty and hard labour, by drawing the boat over many rapids and shallow places, we got slowly along till we arrived at Schenectady on the 11th, where we hired a man to carry me in a chair to Joseph Fowler's, about fourteen miles; and from thence I was carried home in a wagon next day, being the 12th of the 9th mo., to the great joy of my dear wife and family. I was truly comforted to find them all well, although I was very low in health myself. In this journey I was gone nearly three months, — travelled by land and water about twelve hundred miles according to computation, and attended twen- ty-four meetings, beside many family visits. 14th. In taking a review of my little services, I feel perfect peace; having abundant cause to bless, praise and magnify the Divine hand that hath pre- JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 59 served mc to this day. Although I have many times, as it were, staggered and reeled to and fro, yet at this time I feel delivered from fear of falling, if I do but keep up the daily watch, which is necessary for all men. 16th. I attended our meeting at Easton, and was much comforted in silting with my home friends in a good degree of solemnity and awfiil reverence be- fore the Lord. Next day feeling my health improv- ing, I walked out to see some of my friends and neighbours, among whom was my well respected, aged friend, Daniel Cornell. He told me a dream which led to these remarks: There are many in these days who feel the necessity of knowing Christ raised in them, so that by feeling his powerful working in their minds, they may have the witness or seal of his owning presence in themselves, who yet do not get deep enough, or else by letting in discouragements they give up the labour too soon. But it is those only that are earnestly engaged to press forward through all opposition, who will ever witness the resurrection of Christ, to their real and solid com- fort. 2d of 10th mo. What meaneth this language that I have heard for several days past in the ear of my mind; " Study to be quiet, and do thy own business." It seems as if it was a scripture passage, but I cannot find it there; and whether it be there or not, there is great instruction in it indeed. It hath afforded me much in the contemplation of it, and I think it might be of use to every class of mankind, if it were properly attended to. Str(dy to be quiet. What can be more necessary, when any thing is presented to the mind to be done or omitted, than first to en* 60 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. deavour to quiet all our own vain thoughts and self- contrivance, in order to become properly qualified to know our own proper business; seeing that of our- selves we can do nothing that will redound to the praise or glory of God: and to glorify God our Crea- tor, is the ultimate end for which we were created. This, I suppose, is generally confessed by all sorts of people. Wherefore, if thou art young in years, it is thy indispensable duty to study to quiet all thy vain thoughts and wandering imaginations, in order to be made capable of hearing the still small voice that speaks in thy heart, saying, This is the way; walk in it. And although it may lead thee in the way of the cross to thy natural inclinations, yet it is the way to the crown of perfect peace. Therefore do nothing rashly; but study to be quiet, and find out and do thy own business; for thou must work out thy own salvation, and that with fenr and trem- bling. Thou must not look out to others to do thy work, but turn the attention of thy mind inward to the gift of light and grace in thy own heart, and study to be quiet in thy own thoughts, not suffering thy natural will and desires to have the pre-eminence in thy mind. So wilt thou be in the way to be rightly informed what thy business is, and to be strengthen- ed to perform it in an acceptable manner. If thou art numbered among the middle-aged, yet this lesson would be as useful to thee as perhaps any other: for I appeal to thy own conscience, whether when thou takest a retrospective view of thy past life, thou dost not see many things that have not been rightly done by thee; and whether, in thy se- rious moments, thou art not almost ready to say, I would not do so now. All these mis-steps have been JOURNAL OP RUFCS HALL. 61 taken by being too hasty in thy mind, and for want of studying to quiet thy own will and self-contri- vance; and if the watch is not kept up, it may be the case with thee again. Wherefore, in all thy fu- ture progress in life, stud}' to be quiet, and mind thy own particular business, and especially that business which is of eternal consequence; for the work of sal- vation is of very great moment to thee, to me, and to all mankind; seeing we are all but tenants at will, and the dissolution of these bodies awaits us contin- ually, but of the time when, we are all at uncertain- ty. As the tree falleth so it lies, whether toward the north or toward the south: and without holiness no man shall see the Lord. Therefore, as we cannot expect to find repentance in the grave, it is highly needful for us to study to be quiet and mind our own proper business. Thou art now in the middle walks of life, accord- ing to a common way of reckoning; a great portion of thy precious time is already past, and perhaps thy day's work may be far behind-hand, so that it re- quires great diligence to redeem the time. Perhaps thou art in the midst of business, having a large fa- mily to provide for; and thy farm produces plenti- fully; or thou' hast a large and lucrative trade on hand, and thy mind is agitated divers ways, — taking thought how to make the best of all thou hast; and how to take advantage of the times, not only for the support of thy family and household, but also to make thyself a little richer, or to increase thy stock. But canst thou, by taking thought, add one cubit to thy stature? Dost thou find by all these struggles and anxious thoughts and cares, that thou art any nearer heaven than thou wast some time past? and 6 62 JOURNAL OF RUFCS HALL. what progress art thou making thitherward ? It is the end which crowns all at last: and if ihoa miss heaven and happiness, thou wilt lose all that is truly worth having. Is it not indeed high time for thee to study to quiet these perplexing thoughts about this life, and be more seriously thoughtful concern- ing thy everlasting welfare? Oh! saith my soul, that thou wouldst instantly and earnestly give heed to this little but comprehensive text, Study to be quiet and do thy own business, — thy particular and im- portant business; seeing the matter appears to be urgent, and the cause of everlasting consequence. If thou art old, and feelest the infirmities of body, the natural production of old age, — yet perhaps there remains something for thee to do. Although thou hast experienced much in the course of thy life, and hast seen many changes, overturnings and revolu- tions in thy time, yet all these things ought not to trouble thee: let them not perplex thy mind, but study to be quiet and attend to thy own business. Keep thy mind calm and quiet, and be not troubled at these worldly, changing things. Since thy glass is almost run, and thou wilt soon be centred in the world of spirits, let it be thy chief and principal con- cern to be found ready at the midnight cry, having thy lamp trimmed and burn-jng, with oil in thy ves- sel, so as to enter into, the bride .chamber. Study then to be quiet, and daily wait to have thy mind supplied with heavenly incc^iies of Divine grace. Feel after the Lord's owning presence; by which the evidence of the love of God may so abound in thy heart, that all doubts and fears will vanish away. So wilt thou see and know tliat studying to be quiet and doing thy own work, will produce more solid JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 63 peace and happiness than all the cares, and troubles, and tossings and anxieties of this world can ever procure. Art thou an active nnember in the church? This lesson will be profitable for thee to learn; for human invention in the exercise of church discipline can do little or no good, and certainly may do much hurt. Therefore, study to be quiet, as to thy own wit, cun- ning, and contrivance, and centre down to thy own business; which is to know that of thyself, without Divine influence, thou art a fool as to the right know- ledge and qualification for church discipline. Thy mind must be quickened and influenced by the life- giving presence of Christ, the head of the church: and as thou becomest thus quickened, and made alive, and keeps in that life, thou wilt labour success- fully tiierein; and not till then. Wherefore, in the first place, and above all things, study to be quiet, and attend to the Divine gift in thyself, that thou mayst know and do thy own business. It is also needful for those that do not consider themselves as active members, but sit as learners; yet there is something for these to do; for all the members of the body are useful to one another as they abide in the life of the body; and as they draw their life from the head, they all have to centre down to their own gifts, to study to be quiet, and mind their own busi- ness; hereby experiencing their spirits to be dipped and baptized, united and knit together with their brethren and sisters in the service of God for the good of souls in general, and for the mutual comfort and edification of society. And 0 ye ministers, — what class of mankind hath more need to give due attention to the subject before 64 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. US, than you have; since all those that pretend to i teach others and to preach the gospel, must speak as l the oracles of God, or otherwise they cannot expect either to profit the people or themselves. If they are not clothed and immediately authorised with power from on high, — if they have not on their minds and spirits, theUrim and theThummim, the bell and the promegranate, — they may make abundance of noise about religion, but all to no good purpose. For, to preach the gospel is no less than to preach the very power of God; for " the gospel is the power of God unto salvation." If the minds and spirits of those that minister are not covered with, and dipped and baptized into that power, so as to feel the clothing of Divine love and charity, with an immediate necessi- ty and command from God, — they will give an un- certain sound; and then who shall prepare for battle against sin? Their preaching will be no more in the ears of the hearers, nor even in their own mouths, than a pleasant song: it will not be in any wise sa- ving, or edifying; neither will the speaker or hearers be profitably baptized thereby. But if ministers are rightly called, qualified and sent or called forth, their ministry will be saving, edifying and comfortable. It was so of old; and God, the author of it, is the same yesterday, to-day and foreVerr he changeth not. His will is to save men from sin as much now as it was then. When Christ sent forth his disciples, he gave them this particular charge; " Go ye, and teach all nations, baptizing them into the name or power of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit." Therefore, if preachers are to teach so effectually as thereby so powerfully to reach the hearts of the peo- ple that they are baptized into the very power and JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 65 life of God, — have not t\\ey who profess to preach the gospel, great need to study to be quiet, and do their own business, which is the Lord's work thro' them ? If we of ourselves can do nothing towards advan- cing the glory of God, and are yet called to speak as the oracles of God, we are no more than the trumpet through which God sometimes makes his will known to the people: and surely no trumpet can sound any thing intelligibly of itself, to any one. But as it is the place of a trumpet sometimes to be silent, altho' in the midst of the people, — because there are times when it is not needful that the trumpet be sounded; so it is with ministers of the gospel: it is their pro- per business sometimes to be silent. So that they have great need to study to be quiet, in order that they may be rightly informed what to say and when to speak, and when to be silent; as well as where the message is to be delivered, and who it is for, or whether it is for any particular person or persons; or whether it is for their own use; or to be delivered in public. All which it is needful for ministers to be rightly and clearly informed of, before they can be properly qualified to teach the people profitably, or preach baptizingly. But, as these qualifications can- not be attained by any art or letter-learning, nor yet by all the cunning studies and inventions of men; for that which is known of God is manifest in them by the light of his grace in their hearts, as they give good heed thereunto; — .so it is highlj^ needful for ministers to study to be quiet, and thus know and distinguish their own proper business. This imme- diate revelation of the Divine will and qualifying jX)wer is needful to be known, felt, and attended to, 6 * 66 JOURNAL OF KUFUS HALL. by ministers, not only when to rise, but when de- claring to the people: else how do the)' know what to say, and when to be silent and close? For let it be remembered, that they who add to or diminish any thing from the sure word of prophecy, will be in danger of the curse mentioned in the book of Re- velation; or as the prophet said concerning them that kindle a fire, and compass themselves about with the sparks that they have kindled, — they shall lie down in sorrow. Oh! then, let us all centre down to our own gifts, and stud}' to quiet all our own human thoughts, ima- ginations, inventions and contrivances; and let the Lord God of hosts speak by and through whom he pleases. And let all flesh keep silence before him; so shall we know what our proper business is, and be enabled to do it acceptably. And ye elders also have need to study quietness and true silence, as well as others. For how can ye judge rightly of spirits and of doctrines, or travail with the ministers, unless your minds are rightly in- formed and Divinely qualified? And is it not need- ful, in order to this, that all self-exaltation, self-con- trivance, and self-conceit, together with all former prejudices or conclusions, be laid aside and put away, before yc can judge righteous judgment, or stand as upright pillars in the church, or be as fathers and mothers in Israel in a spiritual travail ? How need- ful, tlierefore, for you to study to be quiet, in order to discern and feel and know your proper business, and be Divinely qualified to do it! But in truth it may be said. What class, station, or situation of mankind is there that would not be profited by rightly learning, understanding, and giv' JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 67 ing due and practical attention to these few but com- prehensive words of admonition, " Study to be quiet and do thy own business." 10th month 14th. Since I came home from my western visit, I have observed that our meetings at Easton are much larger than they were formerly; which I thought was in some measure occasioned by the abundance of preaching that occurred in our meeting about this tim.e. And a fear hath often pos- sessed my mind lest too many came for the sake of hearing a pleasant sound of words, and did not suffi- ciently attend to their own gifts; so missed of the true usefulness of attending meetings. On this sub- ject I was very much exercised, believing that if the people did not strictly attend to their own gifts, or the measure of grace in their own hearts, they would be more likely to be hurt by much preaching, though it might flow from the right fountain, than be bene- fited by it. However, I see clearly that it is best at all times, and under all our exercises, to put our trust in the Lord, and let him speak by and through whom he pleases, and as much as he pleases; for we are weak, ignorant, and short-sighted creatures, and can of ourselves do nothing that will redound to his hon- our and praise. 17th. As I was driving oxen, drawing timber for the use of my farm, I had occasion to pass by the dwelling house of a man who is considered wealthy, having many of the conveniencics of life, and is withal a very good neighbour, the following reflec- tions occurred : This man began the world as poor as myself,and is now in the space of twenty )'ears, worth perhaps more than three times as much as I am; yet I suppose I have done more labour than he has: and 68 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. while he has large sum* of money out at use, I am put to it to keep clear of debt. A query arose in my mind why it should be so; and whether all things were right with us both, while our circumstances in regard to this life were so different? This man is considered a great farmer, and seems naturally what is called a very clever neighbour. He seems to have a sleight at making a good bargain in trading, in buy- ing and selling; and as yet steers his course among men so as to avoid their censure. He makes not much profession or appearance of being religious; hut will sometimes go to meeting when it best suits him, or when some travelling Friend comes along and appoints a meeting. Now, as this character may apply to many who are considered prosperous and thriving in the things of this life, it appears to me there is danger of suffering the mind to be too much taken up with studying and contriving how to make the most of things; — how to take the advantage of the times and circumstances of business; and how a poor debt may be shifted oS" into better hands by a little management; also in observ- ing who has the best horses, cattle and stock, — who is under the necessity of selling cheap, or buying dear. These worldly cares and anxieties, with the uneasiness occasioned by the fear of losing by sink- ing or poor creditors, may prey upon the thoughts so as to prevent sleep and the natural rest of body and mind. The mental eye may become so blinded by the corroding cares and concerns of this life, that it sees not the necessity of becoming truly religious; and therefore chiefly minds the things of this world. I believe the Lord in wisdom hath .seen meet to set one above another in such a sense as for one to. JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 69 have more of this world's goods committed to his stewardship, than another. As to myself, although I have comparatively but little of the treasures of this world, yet I have a sufficiency for myself and family in a plain way, and can entertain my friends with simplicity and satisfaction, feeling much delight and comfort in their company, and have but few things appertaining to this life to give me anxiety or trouble. Thus, we have a cloud of witnesses to confirm us in the truth, that a little with content- ment, is better than great gain, or great possessions and trouble therewith. And 1 am fully convinced that in the wise administration of Divine Providence, it is as great a blessing to some to be poor, as it is to others to be rich in the things of this world: but in all situations. Divine wisdom is needful and profita- ble to direct aright, and to make us faithful stewards, whether of little or much. 24th. I attended the monthly meeting at Saratoga, and had a favoured time in testimony; enlarging, as it opened to me in the light, on the circumstance of Paul's being brought before Felix the governor. — ■ When he reasoned with him " of righteousness, tem- perance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled;" being no doubt fully convinced of the truth of Paul's doctrine: and yet as if to evade the cross, he said to Paul, "Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee." But though he sent for him often, and doubtless knew that Paul was an innocent man, yet he never did set him at liberty, as it was in his power to do, but continued him a prisoner. Thus, instead of being tender to- wards him, Felix became so hardened that when the time came that he must resign his place to another, 70 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. " being willing to show the opposing Jews a plea- sure," rather than do justice, he " left Paul bound." After which, it was out of his power to set him at liberty, even if he had been ever so willing. And so it is in a spiritual sense: for as we put off and de- lay yielding obedience to manifested duty, we grow still harder and harder, weaker and weaker, and blinder and blinder, until we lose all the power or strength we had to do the things that we have been fully convinced we ought to do. The next day, at our mid-week meeting, I felt, as I thought, like Peter when shut up and bound in prison. But as I cried or breathed to God for help, a Friend stood up and spoke so exactly to my state and condition, that my bands fell off, the iron gate opened as of its own accord, and I was set at liberty to praise the Lord who is everlastingly worth)^ — Thus, he works by instruments when he sees meet, for the help and salvation of his depending children. About the beginning of the 11th month, there were several sudden deaths in our neighbourhood, which seemed to be a very solemn warning to us all. The people were earnestly entreated to be mindful of their latter end, and tenderly exhorted to be pre- pared to meet death at all times. Oh! who among us will be so wise as to improve by these solemn admonitions? I believe it will be those that live daily in the true fear of the Lord. May the number of these increase. 18th. Attended our meeting at Easton, and felt entirely empty, so as to be compared to a blank. But as I sat, with my mind retired inward, it was sound- ed in the ear of my mind. Wait on the Lord, and let him arise in his own time, and in his own way. This JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 71 settled ill iny mind with the evidence of Divine light and life, as being that which all men and women ought to do, in order that they might be qualified rightly to worship God in spirit, and in the way and manner acceptable to him. Those minds that become rightly centred in their own gifts, looking inward to the Lord for Divine assistance to perform worship in an acceptable manner, — are rightly qualified to re- ceive the real benefit of assembling together, whether the meeting be held in silence or not. These wit- ness their inward spiritual strength to be renewed in a right manner, and their minds and spirits mount .upwards with wings as eagles; and these truly enjoy the sweet fellowship of brethren and sisters, begotton of the heavenly Father, and made like unto the sons of God. But those that grow impatient and do not keep to the inward exercise, but want Iielp in their own time and way, are like the children of Israel when Moses was gone up into the mount and had tarried many days, — they said to Aaron, their minister, "Up, make us gods that may go before us, for as for Moses, we wist not what has become of him." These seem as though they would almost draw some of the minis- ters ofi" their seats, in order that they might hear something with their outward ears, so as to be amus- ed and elevated thereby. But, poor creatures, they would all be deceived, even if they should succeed in their desires: for, if any of the ministers should be off their watch, and so far miss their way as to gratify them with words without life and power, it would do them no more good than Aaron's calf did the children of Israel — and we may remember their conduct incurred so great displeasure from God, that 72 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. there fell of them in that day about three thousand men. Now, although such superficial impatient hear- ers may seem to like such preaching well, and call it good doctrine, — may even proclaim as the Israelites did in that day, These be thy gods, 0 Israel, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt; — yet are they not profited by it at all. As life arose into dominion, I found a necessity to stand up and open these views to the people, with much enlargement, and had good satisfaction in my labour, feeling the peace of God to rest on my mind. And now, in penning these remarks, I think minis- ters may learn a profitable lesson of caution, hy ob- serving Aaron's weakness in condescending to the people who were in an impatient and murmuring disposition, because Moses, their leader, was with- drawn for a season about his proper business. It appears that Aaron, although a chosen minister of God, had so much (may I not say?) foolish compas- sion on them, that, being willing to do something by which they might be pacified, he said to them, "Break off the golden ear-rings that are in your ears, and bring them unto me." And the people did so; and he cast them into the fire, as he told .Moses, "and there came out this calf" How strikingly warning and instructive is the passage! For when ministers feel that the people are getting uneasy and discon- tented with silence, as supposing their spiritual Mo- ses is gone, — how apt are some weak ones to be willing to do something in their own strength, like calling for the ear-rings! Observe, something apper- taining to the ears. For doctrines, or words brought forth in our own time and strength (when our spir- itual Moses is withdrawn) can reach no farther than Journal of rufus hall. 73 as it were in at one ear and out at the other: so that such preaching is but like a ring or round of ceremo- ny, wanting the life. Yea, although we may be so eloquent in speech that the people may think high- ly of us and of our doctrine, and speak much in our praise, as they did of Aaron's calf, — yet it being from no higher source than in and of ourselves and our own ability as men, it wants the true life of gospel ministry; and therefore is no better than an idol or image, and can do no more good than Aaron's calf; the making and worshipping of which was such a transgression in the Divine sight that he was greatly displeased with them, so that not only a great num- ber of them lost their lives, but Moses also was so provoked that he brake the two tables of stone and cast them away, and withal severely rebuked Aaron for his folly: insomuch that Israel seemed as it were left in confusion without law, and under the displea- sure of an offended God. Even so it is with all our performances that are done in our own will, strength and time, though we or others may think ever so highly of them. 12th month 9th. It has been a low season to me, with deep poverty of spirit for some time past; un- der which I have been led to inquire into the cause; whether the Lord has withdrawn his presence on account of something I have heretofore done that I ought to have left undone; or whether I have omit- ted something that I ought to have done? My cou- rage seemed almost gone at times, and my mental energy nearly spent. It seemed sometimes as if I did but just breathe, and was in a state neither dead nor alive. I said in my heart. Oh! how long will this dispensation continue? Whither is my Beloved 7 74 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. gone? and what comfort can I take in his absence? But if this is for the trial of my faith in him, and to prove my love to him, let me get to my watch-tower and there patiently abide, watching and waiting for the arising of his light and life in my soul. Then, whatever may be the end of this trying season, I shall know that his mercy endures forever — and be enabled in his own time to give him the praise, as-- cribing all honour and renown to his worthy name. 13th. Gospel truth was declared by a Friend in our monthly meeting, greatly to my strength and encouragement, and the little, humble travailers were incited to perseverance in the way of the Lord. It was a good meeting to me and many others — and some of us were made willing to set up our Ebenezer and say. Hitherto hath the Lord helped us. 16th. At our meeting atEaston,our ancient friend Anne Hoag, who has been a long time silent as to public declaration, again appeared in a powerful tes- timony in the life of the gospel; which cau.sed my heart to rejoice and to be right glad. After which a young man spoke with a good savour, and Anne ap- peared in supplication. Thus, after a season of deep poverty of spirit to me, I was favoured with a time of feasting as on fat things, greatly to my refresh- ment and encouragement. Thanks be to m}- God forever. 1st mo. lllh, 1799. About lliis time I received a letter from my friend Aaron Brewer, of Upper Ca- nada, which revived a concern that had been on my mind for some weeks, to write an epistle to Friends and friendly people at and about the Bay of Canty. This being something new to me, after the concern became ripe, I thought best to advise with some JOURNAL OF RUPUS HALL. 75 Friends about it; being loth to do any thing that might occasion offence, or appear like forwardness in myself. But after opening my concern to my friends, they left me to my freedom to act therein. Now these Friends at the Bay of Canty were mostly new members, and had but little experience in the discipline of society; they had also lately had a preparative meeting settled among them, and in- deed more than a common preparative meeting; for they had liberty to accomplish their marriages as though it was a monthly meeting; also to deal with offenders, but not to disown nor receive members without the consent of Nine Partners monthly meet- ing, of which they were a branch. These privi- leges were given them by reason of their remote- ness from Friends of Nine Partners, it being four hundred miles thence to the Bay of Canty. These circumstances, together with the great distance they were from experienced Friends, so that they were not likely to be visited very often by such, occasion- ed me many serious thoughts about them since my late visit there, which resulted in the following essay. AN EPISTLE To the Preparative Meeting at Adolphus-town, on the Bay of Canty, Upper Canada. Dear friends, — In that love which neither dis- tance of place, nor length of time can erase, do 1 sa- lute you; and hereby inform, that since I was with you 1 have had cause, in my serious meditations, to sympathize with you, I trust, in a degree of feeling sense of your remote situation from Friends. And lately hearing of the labours and service of the com- mittee from the Yearly Meeting, it hath increased my 76 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. concern: not that I think it was not right that 5'ou should be favoured with a meeting for discipline in some sort, but because I discovered among you di- vers states that would be either made better by a right use of such a privilege, or made worse by a wrong use, or rather the abuse of it. Dear friends, it seems to me that it is somewhat like lighting the candle for you. Now no man light- eth a candle and putteth it under a bushel or a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick that all who are in the house may have light; which represents to my mind an exertion of talents. You all have gifts or talents; and some of you will have to stand as it were in the foremost rank, in order to hold forth the light to others; and it may be too in a public way, as well as in a more private capacity. 0 dear friends, be not negligent; and say not in your hearts, 1 am about as good as such or such an one; and it is a cross to me to deal with another, although I see that he or she doeth not right. I had much rather some one else would do the work, for I think it would be better received than from me; and he or she is more capa- ble than I am. 0 dear friends, this sort of reason- ing is too much like hiding the light under the bed of ease, or under the bushel or measure, and measur- ing ourselves by ourselves. Remember, dear friends, that it is said, "The sluggard will not plough by rea- son of the cold; therefore he shall beg in harvest and have nothing;" and that " slothfulness will cover a man with rags." This kind of reasoning, I believe, is the cunning insinuation of the enemy of all good, and will bring on poverty of spirit in an impercepti- ble manner; and you may have to cry for help when it is too late. JOUKNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 77 Wherefore, dear friends, be aroused and work while it is day, for the night cometh wherein no man can work. A disposition to put off and make excuses, serves but to dim the little light we are fa- voured with; and by thus giving way from time to time, the little sense we have of good and of our du- ty to God and one to another, at length becomes entirely lost. On the contrary, as we give diligence to occupy our talents, we find by experience that the five doth gain other five, the two other two, and so might the one as well in proportion. 1 do not thus write to stir up any thing before the right time, or to hasten an untimely birth in any: for I am fully sensible that there is a time to be si- lent, as well as a time to speak; and to know the right time, and what, and where to speak, is a great point of wisdom, which nothing but the true light of Christ in our hearts can testify and explain to us. Dear friends, remember the case of the impotent man that lay at the pool of Bethesda. It seems there was an angel went down at a certain season, and troubled the water, and that whosoever first stepped in after the troubling of the water, was cured of wliatsoever disease he had. But we may be too fast, as well as too slow. Had any ojie stepped in before the troubling of the water by the good angel, he would not have been healed, any more than if he had not stepped in after it was troubled; although he might have felt the shock of being plunged into the water, but the qualifying virtue being wanting no effectual healing could take place. We may also observe that there arc divers causes by which waters may be troubled or moved; sometimes by wind; sometimes by casting in something: but none of these 78 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. ways of moving it will eflfect a cure, short of the effi- cacy of the angel's power or virtue. 0 Friends, whoever acts for God in the cause of Truth, must act in the life and power of God, or it will not re- dound to his praise. We may try all we can do through and by our own windy wisdom or wit; and may by our own strength cast in something that may seem to agitate the water, or fan the flame of zeal in our own minds or the minds of others; — yet the right anointing, the baptizing power of God, being wanting, notliing is done to profit. There are some people who seem to have the bell to make a sound, but not being furnished with the pomegranate which gives the proper savour, they make an uncertain sound, and therefore none pre- pares for the spiritual warfare. I greatly desire not to discourage any tender mind, but to encourage every opening of duty that is in the light of Christ: which light, as it is duly attended to, will show with clearness, and distinguish the precious from the vile. It will discover ta us the difference between the movings of the angel of light, and our own creature- ly contrivance, in our religious performances. In this way, you may be qualified to act as far as the light dictates; and as you keep to this sure guide, and take it for your moving principle and rule of action, you will feel true peace in your labours. And though vou may see but little and therefore do but little, )'et it will be approved, as were the widow's two mites; for " a living dog is better than a dead lion." And, dear friends, there are amongst you those that attend your meetings for worship, and who are partly convinced of the Truth: and it is likely some of these are at times thinking of joining themselves JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 79 as members of our religious society. I greatly de- sire they may be tenderly dealt with, and that you may observe a harmless and innocent openness to- wards them, with such a christian deportment as shall in no wise discourage them or disgust them. Thus will you be enabled to lead them gently along, and be qualified to feed them with milk and not with strong meat: and in thus prudently nourishing the children, you will find in the Lord's time the fami- ly of his house will flourish and grow up like calves in the stalls; and others will flock to the windows of the ark of God's covenant, like harmless doves. 0 my friends, I feel a flow of love towards others as well as the members of our society, I mean such especially as are well aflected towards Friends' prin- ciples, and attend their meetings, and have in some measure seen the necessity of taking up the cross, so as to appear in a good degree of plainness of speech and apparel. To such I would say, take heed to your- selves; hide not your light; for although it may be known that you are not members of the society of Friends, yet you are considered as Friends and num- bered among them: and therefore it behoveth you to be wise and exemplary in all your conduct, lest you mar the work that may be begun in others who yet make no visible appearance or profession of Truth to the world. Oh! therefore consider your standing and the necessity of advancing in the truth. I appre- hend some of you feel somewhat like the impotent man that had lain at the pool of Bethesda a long time, and thought himself so unable to help himself that he was ready to complain, " I have no man to put me into the pool, but while I am getting ready, another steps in." Oh! may you remember how so XOITRNAL OF RUFUS HALL. be was healed through obedience to the command, "Arise, take up thy bed and walk:" and he arose, took up his bed, and went on his way. This was as great, or even a greater miracle than if he had plun- ged into the pool; for it was the word or power of God, and faith in Christ, that healed him. Doubt- less, if he had not been faithful and obedient to the command, and so had not made trial, he would not have been healed. So likewise, in a spiritual sense, if ye are not faithful to the sense of duty given you, but reason within yourselves that ye have none to help you, ye may lay a long time, weak, impotent, and uncured. But, dear friends, (for I love you) be faithful to the inward call; take up your beds of ease, and bear them (though as a burden or cross) on your shoulders, and suffer not them (or that easy, reason- ing disposition) to hinder you any longer. Arise, and walk; or go forward in the faith and light of the Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world : that so ye may obtain peace and rest at last, when time shall be no more. So wisheth, so prayeth, one that travails in spirit, in his measure, for the prosperity of Zion, and the enlargement of her borders, your friend, RuFus Hall. HuHon, Washington county, state of ) New York, 16nabun<> us to rarse thankful hearts to him RACHEL ROWLAND. 11 ■who remains to be the Leader and Redeemer of his people. In her last illness she was mostly confined for nearly five months; and although she passed throug-h much bodily affliction, her mind was favoured to experience resignation to the Divine will. She knew in whom she believed, and cabnly reposed her confidence on that never-failing Arm of Divine power which had supported her through life. To a female friend who passed much time with her in her last illness, she stated, that she had no prospect of re- covering, and supposed it would be a satisfaction to her friends to know something of the state of her mind at that solemn period; and remarked, that she had not left the work to be done at that late hour; that her day's work was finished, and she was patiently waiting for her change ; that all was peace within, and nothing in her way. During the progress of her illness, she also expressed to the same friend (when speaking of the late division in our religious society) that she felt entire peace in the step she had taken in regard to this matter, — that it was the result of much deliberate consideration, — that she had never look- ed back at that act with regret, but on the contrary the con- templation thereof was always attended with peace and sat- isfaction ; and that her faith and hope remained firm and unchanged in that Divine Arm of power which had been near and had supported her through many trials. After informing a friend who was sitting with her, that she had not been able to lie down for six weeks, owing to her cough and diflSculty of breathing, the friend remarked that her nights must be trying; — she answered cheerfully '•Oh no: — they are all peace. — I often look round my chamber at night, and think it's all heaven ; although I have nothing to boast of. I have my low times, but it's peace- ful poverty, and this I consider a favour." 12 JOHN HUNT. On another occasion she remarked to a friend and his wife who called to see her, that she had experienced many long and tedious sicknesse;?, but never one in which she had been so uniformly favoured with tranquillity and peace ; and that during her illness she had been reminded of an ex- pression of Samuel Emlen's, "That all was so calm, there was not even a breeze to ruffle the surface." A short time before her close she expressed that she was waiting to be released ; that all was peace, and not a cloud in her way. She quietly departed, as one falling into a sweet sleep, on the 9th day of the 2d month, 1830, in the sixty-fourth year of her age, and her remains were follow- ed to the grave by a large body of Friends and fellow-citi- zens. Thus it has pleased our great and holy Head to remove one of his faithful labourers from the church militant ; and we humbly trust that, having been washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb, her redeemed spirit has been per- mitted to join the church triumphant in heaven, and to re- ceive the welcome sentence, "Well done; good and faith- ful servant — enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." ^ Testimony of Chester monthly meeting. New Jersey, concerning John Hunt, a minister, deceased. The remembrance of this our beloved friend being pre- cious amongst us, it is apprehended a brief account of him may be useful to survivors. It appears from memorandums which he left, that in his youth he was much inclined to vanity ; but by yielding obe- dience to the " reproofs of instruction, which are the way of life," he was induced to withdraw from sucli company JOHN HUNT. 13 as he had found to have a corrupting tendency ; and by at- tention to this principle of Divnie grace, he was led to seek retirement, wherein his good desires were strengthened. He also found much consolation and encouragement in reading the scriptures and books on other religious sub- jects. Being careful diligently to attend meetings, his mind became exercised under an apprehension of duty to express a few words therein. Having at length yielded to these impressions, he experienced the reward of peace ; and the expansion of his mind was such, that he felt love to flow toward all mankind in a manner he had never before wit- nessed. But when he again felt his mind drawn to a simi- lar discharge of duty, he was induced to look for a greater evidence of its being a Divine requiring; and so put it off from time to time for nearly a year, much to his own disad- vantage. At length, he gave up to the service, and con- tinued to be engaged therein to the close of his days, being a minister about fifty years; and though his gospel labours were much about home, and at the neighbouring meetings, yet he made divers religious visits to Friends within the compass of our own and the adjacent Yearly Meetings to satisfaction. Being an example in plainness and simplicity, he also bore a public testimony against pride and superfluity, which he observed had increased to an alarming degree ; frequently reviving the testimony of William Penn's fa- ther, viz. " Son William, if you and your friends keep to your plain way of preaching, and plain way of living, you will make an end of the priests to the end of the world." ■ His concern for the promotion of temperance, often in- duced him to labour with Friends and others to discourage the customary use of ardent spirits. His care for the risini/ generation led him frequently to visit schools, and on other 2 ^4 JOHN HUNT. occasions to use his endeavours to impress upon the minds of young people, the necessity of circumspection and watchfulness, — that they might exercise a guarded care against the encroachments of corrupting customs and fash- ions; often expressing his anxiety that all might be excited to diligence in their respective duties, and to a due consid- eration of their latter end. His care to provide for his family, — his punctual obser- vance of contracts, and regular attention to engagements of a pecuniary nature, — were evidences that he was gov- erned by honest and upright principles. His diligence in attending religious meetings, — his visits to those in afflic- tion,— his frequent religious labours at funerals, and at meetings appointed in places where they were not regular- ly held, manifested his ardent solicitude to be faithful in the discharge of his religious obligations. His gift in the ministry seemed to brighten near his close, — directing all carefully to aitend to "the unspeak- able gift," or "Light of Christ" in man, as being the only way and means of salvation ; and which agrees also with Paul's testimony, that " the grace of God that bringeth sal- vation hath appeared to all men, teaching us, that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world." And he frequently revived this observation, " That society or people which does not recur to first principles will surely go to decay." As a man, his passions were easily excited under cross occurrences; which, for want of a constant watch, some- limes prevailed so as to occasion much subsequent distress and heart-felt sorrow. But at length he was mercifully favoured to experience, in respect to this "thorn in the llcsh," the .sufficiency of that grace which is perfect, evea JOHN HUNT. 15 in weakness. A few years before his death, a friend who had been with him through the night, encouraged him to seek after an increase of patience : with tears he exclaimed,. "Why this has always been my weakness; but I have prayed unto the Lord, and he has helped me." He was diligent and industrious both in his domestic and religious services, and so intent was his mind on laying up treasure in heaven and availing himself of the means of improvement, that in accordance with the advice of William Penn to his children, he kept a diary for more than forty years : besides which, he wrote several essays and many letters on moral and religious subjects, evincing his con- cern for the promotion of Truth and righteousness amongst his fellow-creatures. Though often labouring under bodily infirmities, he was generally able to attend religious meetings till near his close ; and zealously encouraged others to faithfulness in the discharge of this duty, particularly in that part of tlie week wherein so much deficiency has been observed. During his last illness he manifested ranch resignation ; often saying he hoped he might be enabled to bear patient- ly what the Lord might see meet to inflict, A friend call- ing to see him, observed he was sorry to find him so ill ; he replied, "I have enjoyed more days of health, than many have had:" and spoke of his dissolution with great composure, saying, "The words of John Woolman often occur to me, ' My dependance is on the Lord Jesus Christ, who, I trust, will forgive my sins, which is all I hope for." Thus, we have reason to believe he was favoured to wit- ness redemption through Christ the eternal Word, and no doubt gained an admittance into that kingdom where the wicked cease from troubling, and where the weary be at rest. 16 WILLIAM TAYLOR. He quietly departed this life the 23d of 9th month,1824, aged about eighty-four years. A Memorial from Makefield monthly meoting in Bucks county, Ptiinsylvania, concerning William Taylor. This our beloved friend was born in the year 1774, of respectable parents, Timothy and Sarah Taylor, who both deceased while he was young. In the early part of his life he participated in some of the amusements of the day, yet he sustained among his friends and acquaintance the character of an innocent young man. About the tAventy-se- cond year of his age he was thrown from a horse, by which one of his legs was broken so that he never recovered from lameness. This dispensation of affliction Avhich confined him nearly a year, was, through the effectual workings of the Lord's power, sanctified to him, and brought him a hum- ble suppliant at the throne of Divine grace ; where like Jacob he entered into covenant with a covenant-keeping God. In the year 1802, he entered into the marriage state with Anna, the d^nrhtor of Jonathan and Elizabeth Kirkbride, and FCtlled in liie village of Dolington near this meeting; where he honestly and usefully followed the business of a .country merchant, conscientiously avoiding the trade in spirituous liquors, or in any wise using them as a drink. Thus, following the aposde's excellent doctrine, to be "dili- gent in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord," he was blessed in his labours ; and growing in grace he in- creased in obedience and dedication to tire manifestations of Truth. About the thirty-fourth year of his age, he was called to bear a public testimony to the efficacy of that WILLIAM TAYLOR. vr power witli which he had been baptized, and in self-abase- ment lie gave up to the heavenly vision. His preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in the simplicity and power of Truth. Having received a gift in the ministry, he was careful to exercise it to the honour of the great Giver, and, not running into words without lifes his ministry was preserved pure and edifying. He was a sincere lover of peace and unity, and endea- voured to promote them on all occasions; and where he discovered abroach he laboured privately for the restoration of harmony. He was an advocate for the discipline and order established amongst us, and was careful, when a con- cern arose in his mind with clearness to pay a religious visit, to lay his prospect before his friends for tlieir consid- eration and concurrence; — esteeming tlic unity of his christian brethren next in importance to, and in sudi cases inseparably connected with, the Divine approbation. He was very useful in meetings for discipline, especial- ly in treating with offentlers, his mind being covered with that charity which is the clothing of the redeemed soul ; holding out this important view, that the end and design oi" christian discipline was not only to preserve the society sweet and clean, but to restore the lost sheep of the liousa of Israel. Hence he was prepared to meet the returning prodigal, though he might seem afar off, and to offer him encouragement and consolation. Thus, the Divine light that was graciously vouchsafed him, not being hid under a bed, nor under a bushel, but placed upon a candlestick it gave light to them that were round him, commanding the love and respect of his neighbours of other denominations, . and more especially of his friends, by whom he was em - - ployed in important services which he performed wiili * punctuality, diligence and care. 2 18 WILLIAM TAYLOR. As a husband, he was loving and faithful ; as a parent, tender and affectionate ; being concerned to bring up his children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord; as a neighbour, he was kind and obliging. Thus adorning his- christian profession as an example of the believers in faith, in patience, and in purity. Observing the rapid increase of that cloud which had for some time hung over our society, this our beloved friend was brought, with many of his cotemporaries, to weep as between the porch and the altar, and in humble supplication to adopt the language, " Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thy heritage to reproach." He saw with deep sorrow the division that was taking place in our religious society, and anticipated as a consequence the scattering of the flock. At this awful crisis he was brought under close trial and exercise ; and being sincerely concern- ed to know the will of the great Head of the church, he was impressed with the necessity of supporting the principles and testimonies of our early Friends, who were concern- ed to guard against the two extremes to which the militant church has ever been exposed, — an anti-christian domina- tion on the one hand, and an irresponsible independence on the other. Being confirmed in these views, he continued closely united with the body of Friends, and was peculiar^ ly serviceable at that trying pei-iod — not only within the limits of the Quarter to which he belonged, but (under the appointment of the Yearly Meeting) to meetings without those limits where Friends were in difficulty. His health was evidently on the decline for more than a year before his decease ; and for several months previous to that event, he was confined pretty much at home, though he was enabled to attend the particular meetings for wor- ship and discipline to which he belonged. The last meet- ■WILLIAM TAYLOR. 19 ing he attended was the Quarterly meeting for ministers and elders held at Buckingham in the month preceding that on which he died ; but he was taken so unwell at that time as to be unable to attend the general Quarterly meeting held the next day ; he therefore returned home. The day after his return he was about, and seemed pretty comfort- able until towards evening, when he grew worse; after which he did not leave his room. On the evening of the 29th of 5th month, he was seized with a paralytic affection, so that afterwards he had very little if any use of his left side. His speech was also considerably affected by it — but at times he could speak intelligibly. He sometimes seemed desirous to be released ; but often expressed, that though his sufferings were great he was willing to wait the right time. He several times desired to see his chil- dren together ; and at one time gave them some directions relating to his temporal concerns ; after which it did not appear that such concerns in any degree occupied the at- tention of his mind. He advised his children to be dihgent in attending religious meetings, and gave them other pro- fitable counsel ; telling them also, that they knew he had not put off giving them instruction till he was on a death- bed. During the greater part of the time of his illness, he could not express much at once that could be understood ; but from what could be gathered, his mind appeared to be filled with praise and thanksgiving to the Giver of every good and perfect gift ; and he frequently said, " All is well." He quietly departed this life on the 16th of the 6th mo. 1831, in the fifty-seventh year of his age ; — and was in- terred in _Friends' burying ground at Makefield on the afternoon of the 17th, attended by many connexions and firiends. HUGH FOULKE, A Memorial of Gtvynedd monthly meeting, concerning Hugh Foulke. We feel concerned to preserve, and give forth the follow- ing Testimony concerning our beloved friend, Hugh Foulke, deceased. He was the son of Edward and Margaret Foulke, mem- bers of this meeting, and was bom the 21st of the 2d mo., 1752, old style. In early life, his mind was imbued with that Divine love which leads to an earnest desire for the welfare of the human family ; and as he yielded obedi- ence to the teachings of Truth, he was preserved from many of the hurtful customs and vanities which often mis- lead the minds of unstable youth. As he advanced in re- ligious experience, he became useful in assisting others, — both by his counsel and example. He was also quali6ed to be helpful in administering the discipline of our religious society; being clothed with that charity and meekness which are restoring and salutary. From early life till near its close, he was frequently appointed on the important concerns of society ; in which services his integrity and faithfulness were useful and satisfactory. During the time of the American revolution, he suffered much on account of his faithfulness in the support of our peaceable testimony against war;^but he was enabled, not only to bear with patience and resignation the priva- tions and sufferings that were permitted to befall him, — but also by his advice and example, to encourage and strength- en others in the support of this righteous testimony. He was a diligent atlcnder of our religious meetings, both for worship and. discipline, and a good example of hunihli^ waiting therein. In his conduct and deportment . he carefully adhered to iho testinionies of 'I'rutli, as pro- HUGH FOULKE, 21 fessed by Friends ; and he faithfully laboured for their sup- port, by his endeavours to strengthen and encourage others to a like dedication. He was an example of plainness in dress, in manners, and in furniture. His reading was principally confined to the writings of early Friends, and the scriptures of Truth; the frequent perusal of which, he was careful to recommend to others. The kindness and sweetness of his disposition endeared him much, — not only to those in religious fellowship with him, but to others unto whom he was known. In his con- versation, he was agreeable and instructive, — particularly to young people, who generally loved his society, and lis- tened with attention to the paternal counsel and judicious remarks that were blended with his social converse. Hav- ing, by long experience and faithful dedication to the dic- tates of best Wisdom, acquired a rich fund of valuable in- formation, he was like a " scribe instructed unto the king- dom of heaven," — bringing forth out of bis treasury things new and old. For above forty years, he bore a faithful testimony, both by precept and example, against the use of spirituous liquors. He was one of the first in his neighbourhood who abandoned the use of them in hay-time and harvest : and, although in the beginning many difficulties weie to he encountered, yet through his steadfastness and perse- verance, the testimony gained ground in the minds of others ; and the practice of abstaining from the use of them, became more general. He laboured much on this subject, both publicly and privately ; entreating others, particularly the younger class, not to tamper or meddle with that arti- cle, which is so ruinous in its effects, — so corrupting to the morals and debasing to mankind, and the source of sa much misery and evil in the land. 22 HUGH FOULKE. He was for many years an elder and member of the Meeting for Sufferings ; but towards the close of his life he was released from the latter appointment at his own re- quest. Being a man of sound judgment and strict integ- rity, he had much place in the minds of others, and was often usefully employed in the settlement of differences in his neighbourhood : and near the close of his days, he remarked, that he felt peace in the consciousness that in his judgment amongst men, he had endeavoured to give " righteous judgment," In the year 1816, in consequence of a fall he became lame, so as to be confined to his house for several months ; but was remarkably patient and resigned under this afflic- tion. He afterwards recovered so much as to be able to attend meetings near home, and a few times the Yearly Meeting held in Philadelphia; the last of which was in the year 1829. His last illness continued for some weeks; — during which, his strength of body gradually declined, but the powers of his mind remained unimpaired. The day be- fore his decease, he said in a solemn, impressive manner, "I feel perfect peace; and have nothing to suffer, but bodily afflictions." After a pause, he gave directions about some of his temporal affairs, and then said he felt easy in this respect. As his end drew near, he was favoured with quiet, peaceful resignation; and his last expressions to those present were, "Don't be alarmed, if I should drop off suddenly. My end is very near. I am drawing fast to a close." He departed this life as one falling asleep, on the 23d of the 2d month, 1831, and his remains were interred in Friends' burying ground at Gwynedd on the 25th of the same, aged about seventy-nine years. LEVICK PALMER. 23 We conclude, with desires- that his exemplary life and peaceful close may be a means of encouragement to survi- vors ; — and especially, that the youth may be thereby stimulated to "seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness." Ji Memorial of Camden monthly meeting of Friends in Delaware, concerning Levick Palmer, Who departed this life on the 8th day of the 11th month, in the year 1834, in the fifty-first year of his age; and who, for the last ten or twelve years of his life, filled the station of an elder in the church to the satisfaction of Friends. His parents not being members of our religious society, upon application of his mother to Duck Creek monthly meeting for herself and minor children, they were received into membership ; at which period he was about twelve years of age. Some time after, he was placed an appren- tice in the city of Philadelphia, to learn the mechanical trade or business of house plasterer. During his appren- ticeship, he became seriously concerned for his present and future welfare, and in the course of his religious exer- cises, he became a practical example of righteousness. He was remarkable for his continued diligence in attending our religious meetings for worship and discipline, in which his mental exercises were such as to make it evident to many who attended with him, that the great work in which he was engaged was to lay up treasure in heaven, "where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal." Being of a diffident dispo- sition, he was seldom active in our meetings for discipline' 1i4 LEVICK PAXMER, but his great solemnity on these occasions had the effect to solemnize those present, and convinced them that his spirit was under the influence of Divine power, diligently- labouring for the prosperity and growth of the ever-bless- ed Truth. Having experienced the operations and power of grace in his own mind, he was often concerned for the spiritual welfare of the rising generation, for whom he appeared frequently under much exercise. When engaged in the pursuit of things of a temporal nature, for the mainte- nance and comfortable support of a rising family of children, he justly sustained the amiable character of a kind and af- fectionate husband and father. He was prudent, charitable, and benevolent ; his house was open freely to receive his friends and neighbours of every denomination, and his heart always ready to feel for, and his hands to administer to, the necessities of those whose circumstances in life ren- dered them objects of his christian care and notice. By his innocent and unreserved affability, he gained esteem and acceptance with all classes of men among whom he dwelt : and the effects of that love of his neighbours which was conspicuous throughout his religious life, yet live in the hearts of many who have been partakers of his charities and kind attentions, and who were frequently constrained in gratitude to call him friend and father. His nervous system being weak,his trials at times were ap- parently too much for his natural sti-ength ; but by continued faithfulness to the manifestations of Truth, he was blessed and mercifully supported through these afflictions; and in his last illness manifested to those attending him, that he had lived the life of the righteous, and was ready to enter into that rest prepared for such before the foundation ol the world. r.LlSHA DAWSON. 25 Such being a just outline of the life and religious cha- racter of the deceased, we doubt not that his departed spirit is at rest with those of all the just made perfect, and that our loss, however afflicting, is his everlasting gain. His remains were interred in Friends' burial ground at Little Creek, on the 9th day of the 11th month, 1834, attended by a large company of Friends and others, as a testimony of the good esteem in which he was held by those who knew him. A Memorial of Camden monthly meeting in Delaware concerning Elisha Dawson. As the memory of the righteous is often blessed to sur- vivors, we feel a concern to preserve the following testi- mony concerning our beloved friend Elisha Dawson, late- ly deceased. He was born in Caroline county in the state of Maryland, in the year 1766. His parents, William and Isabella Daw- son, were exemplary members of a society then known by the name of Nicholites; a people who were piously concerned to bear testimony against many of the evils prevalent in their day, amongst the high professors of a re- ligion which breathes " peace on earth and good will to men." In obedience to the pure dictates of that religion, they held a firm testimony against oaths, war, and an hireling ministry. And as they kept faithful to the inward discoveries of heavenly Light, they became convinced of the iniquity of holding their fellow-creatures in slavery. In consequence hereof, through much opposition and diffi- 3 26 ELISHA DAWSON. culty, ihey persevered until they had all freed their slaves ; and they were enabled to engraft on their code of discipline a prohibition of the practice, under the penalty of excom- munication from their society. Under the religious care of such parents, Elisha Daw- son received his education; and passed through the trials and temptations incident to the early periods of life, in much innocency. When about twenty-one years of age, he entered into the marriage state with a daughter of James Harris, a mem- ber of the same religious society. About the year 1798, he, with many others of the Nit holites, joined the society of Friends ; and a short time afterwards, the remainder (with the exception of a very few) were taken into mem- bership. When about thirty years of age, his mind was brought into a close exercise ; under which he came to see and feel that a mere outward or traditional religion, how- ever strictly its rules might be observed, would not avail in the sight of Him that searcheth the heart. In passing through this dispensation, he was led into frequent retire- ment; and during the conflict was brought very low in body and mind. On being advised to consult a physician on ac- count of his health, he declined ; saying, he believed when the object of this probation should be attained, his health would return. Having thus, in a measure, experienced the nature of christian redemption, he became concerned that others might come to understand and enjoy the blessing pro- nounced by the Divine Master on "the pure in heart." Under this concern he first appeared in the ministry, about the year 1800; and continuing faithful to tlie call, he grew in the gift, and became qualified to hold up In ihr- world. ELISilA DAWSOX. 27 with couvinciiig clearness, the efficacy and sufficiency of the Divine Light, as " God's gift for man's salvation." He travelled much in the ministry on this continent, du- ring a period of twenty years ; extending his travels from Canada in ihe north, to the remote settlements of Friends in the southern and western parts of the United States, — and produced s^aUsfactory certificates of the unity and love of his brethren from most of the parts visited. In the spring of L8t35, lie opened to his fellow-members a concern he had had on his mind for many years, to pay a religious visit to Friends in England, Ireland, and on the continent of Europe, — as way might open. Having received certi- ficates of the unity and concurrence of his brethren of the monthly, Quarterly and Yearly Meetings, he embarked from New York the 10th day of the 6lh month following, lie travelled through many parts of England and Ireland, and visited the island of Guernsey ; — discharging liis duty as an ambassador of peace and salvation, as way opened for religious labour. After having discharged what he be- lieved to be his religious duty, he returned to America, and gave a satisfactory account of his proceedings during his absence. A short time before his decease, writing to some of his dear friends in Ireland, he used the following expressions : "At such a time as this, when every tiling that can be shaken in the religious world, appears almost to be moved and shaken, — when encompassed with trials, tribulations and probations, both within and without, is it not a matter of joy unutterable, to feel a sure resting place within the glorious pavilion Him w ho is almighty, and graciously disposed to bear up our sotds through all storms, to our unspeakable comfort ?" 28 ELISTHA DAWSON. On seventh-day, the 22d of the 4th month, 1837, he crossed the river Delaware from Philadelphia to Kaighn's Point. On tlie day following he attended Friends' meet- ing at Camden, New Jersey, where he appeared weightily in the ministry. After mgeting he went home with our friend Joseph Kaighn, where he spent the afternoon and evening very acceptably to the family, — relating many in- teresting circumstances connected with his late religious visit to Great Britain, and was particularly interesting in illustrating some passages of scripture. He retired to bed apparently in usual health, but was taken with a chill in the night, followed by fever. The remedies usual in such cases not producing the desired effect, he gradually sunk under the force of the disease. To some of his grandchil- dren who visited him in his illness, he said, " Dear chil- dren, you may think your prospect brighter than mine in this world, but I am prepared to die; I am not grieved that my time has arrived. I have been endeavouring through my life to serve the Lord and do his will, and now I have nothing to do but die." On another occasion, he expressed his deep interest for Friends in England and Ireland, and said, that the receipt of several letters from thence, bright- ened the chain of affection between them. He often, with much sweetness of mind, expressed his gratitude to his wife and attending friends for their kind- ness. He continued gradually to sink, until second-day morning, the 1st of the 5th month; when, about fifteen minutes past nine o'clock, hit meek and gentle spirit passed quietly away, we trust to the glorious reward of a life that had been dedicated to the cause of truth and righteous- ness. EAUTKOLOMEW FUSSEI.L. 29 Jl Memorial of Uivchlan monthly meeting concerning our deceased friend Bartholomew Fussell. It was the testimony of William Penn concerning the sons of the morning in his day, that " they were changed men themselves, before they went about to change others :" and it was the frequent exhortation of such one unto an- other, " To preach as they ouglit, and to live as they preach- ed," relying upon the light of Christ, exemplified in a holy life, and not upon any arts or parts of men, or the learning and wisdom of the world. And as these views were re- markably exemplified in the innocent life, and the exam- ple of dedication and faithfulness of this our dear friend in advanced age, it is believed the memorial of him, as it lives in the hearts of those who knew him, may be profitable to survivors. He was born in Philadelpliia the 28th of 9th month, 1754, and at the age of six years, removed with his parents into Chester county, within the verge of Pikeland meeting, a branch of Uwchlan monthly meetmg; where he continu- ed a member (excepting for a short time) until 1808, when he was united to Gwynedd monthly meeting in Montgom- ery county. In 1813, he removed with his family into the state of Maryland, and was a member of Litdc Falls monthly meeting about nineteen years. In the year 1832, he returned to reside within the compass of Pikeland meet- ing aforesaid, being rccosnmende l by certificate to Uwch- lan monthly meeting as an approved minister. He first appeared in the ministry about the year 1802, when he was nearly fifty years of age. Thus devoted to ihe cause of Truth a.ul righteousness, his last days were 30 BARTHOLOMEW FTJSSELL. his best days. As he advanced in hte, his disposition which was naturally hasty, became sweetened by the all-subdu- ing power of Truth, — so that in old age, when human na- ture, without the aid and strength of Divine grace, is gene- rally subject to increased irritability, he appeared to be so under the influence of the gospel spirit as to be clothed with its composing power as with a garment. The diligent attendance of all our religious meetings, especially those for the worship of Almighty God, was among the incumbent duties which he often inculcated by precept, and always by his own example; — and he was frequently concerned to recommend a patient and reverent waiting therein. It was also remarkable in the meetings of his home-friends, particularly on week-days, that his " few words fitly spoken" were like "the oil poured upon the head," — sometimes evidently reaching to the minds of the children, and even to those that were afar off. It seemed to be his constant concern, to direct Friends to the knowledge and experience of living and spiritual worship in themselves, without dependance one upon another, or upon any act or outward form, however commendable in itself. At one of the last meetings he attended, as though it was a legacy to his friends and to society at large, he quoted with much feeling the exhortations of the apostle-, " I beseecTi you, brethren, by the mercies of God," that you forsake not the assembling of yourselves together as the manner of some is, but "that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service." He visited, in the course of his ministry, most of the (meetings of Friends in Pennsylvania and Maryland, and sjiSJiy in parts of Virginia, New Jersey and places adjacent : BARTHOLOMEW FUSSELL. 31 and, from accounts received, it is believed he visited all the families of Friends (excepting those in the city) belonging to Baltimore Yearly Meeting; and several of them and the families of some other meetings more than once. He was at times also led to appoint meetings out from among Friends; — and from his own account of these religious services and labours, and the sense of those who accompa- nied him, they were often seasons of favour. We have no wish to enlarge, but may add ; that in the greenness of old age he laboured faithfully according to ability for the maintenance of our christian testimonies; — and his concern and zeal for their advancement, particular- ly those against the unnecessary use of ardent spirits and slavery, were observed to increase with his years. By the power of the gospel he became a practical christian, and as a preacher of righteousness, bore ample testimony of what his own hands had handled of the good word of life. Though in declining health and very feeble in body, he attended Pikeland meeting the 7th of the 10th mo. 1838, and appeared in a lively and impressive testimony; recom- mending patient and humble waiting upon the Lord; — de- claring it to be his l^elief that they who did so, would in due time know an increase of strength, and would be en- abled to rise above the many letting and hindering things of this world; — and in conclusion he quoted the scripture promise, " They shall mount upwards on wings as eagles ; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint." Thus his day's work was finished. The next morn- ing being taken ill, he appeared very sensible of his situa- tion, and acknowledged it as a favour, to have the consoUng evidence at such a time, that the great work was not to do. At another lime he said, It is a great favour at such a. 32 MARY LUKENS. time as this, to have the work done, and to know it to be wrought through faithfulnrss." From the first he appeared very patient under great suf- fering, and entirely resigned; and said he had no desire to be raised again. He said but little during the time of his illness, which lasted nine days ; but retained his senses to the last, and was very affectionate to those around him, particularly to his wife, whom he desired to have with him all the time, except when she was taking rest. On the evening of the 17th, he inquired of his son what o'clock ; and being informed, he said, " Well, it is a hard passage." Then, resuming his position in the bed, he pa- tiently waited until his change came. He departed this life the 17th of the 10th mo. 1838, in the eighty-fifth year of his age ; and we doubt not is now an inhabitant of that city, " whose walls are salvation and whose gates are praise." A Testimony of Fallowfield mO)ithly meeting concerning Mary Lvkens. Believing if may be useful to «ttrvivorg, we are engaged to prsserv'e a memorial of the virtues of our beloved friend Mary Lukens. ^iio vvas born tiie 3d day of the 9th month, 1764, and wos the daupfhter of Isaac and Hannah Shoemaker, of Up- per Dublin, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. In very cirlv life, she was made willing to take up the cross, and ?t the age of eighteen, appeared in the ministry. Keeping: i-losely in the path of self-denial, siie remained with her parents, managing for ihejr support and comfort until the MARV LUKENS, 33 time of lier marriage with Daniel Lukens, in her twenty- eighth year. She was a Avoman of active and industrious habits, and faithful in the performance of her christian duties. She was a willing helper in the chamber of sickness at home, and in the neiohbourhood for miles around ; and, being re- markable for her cheerful and happy disposition, was en- abled to raise the desponding mind, while she administer- ed to the relief of the body. It became a matter of fre- quent occurrence, that persons Avhose minds had been led away by the follies and vices of the age, when brought to the bed of disease, pressingly invited her company. On such occasions, she was often favoured in the exercise of the ministry ; and, through the mercies of God, was re- markably successful in bringing their minds to centre in the "unspeakable gift." In the duties of hospitality she was ever found faithful, not coveting to be rich (as she would say) but desiring only to have what was needful for the support of a family and the entertainment of her friends in a plain way. She was an acknowledged minister in the society for nearly forty years, and was frequently engaged in attend- ing the neighbouring meetings. She also visited the fami- lies of a number of monthly meetings, and performed sev- eral visits at a distance in Truth's service ; one of which, iii company with her husband, in the year 1822, was to Ohio Yearly Meeting, and from thence to the Seneca tribe of Indians, on the Cattaraugus. It appears from her Jour- nal, that she had a solid and satisfactory meeting with them ; at the close of which, one of the chiefs stood up and expressed inuch thaakfulness. and said lie '.■•"iioved tlifir Avomen and c'.iildrcn understood what htii hsvn ^>aid 4* 34 MARY LUKEXS. that we were the people who first took them by the hand to instruct them, — and he thanked the Great Spirit that put it in our hearts to come and see them; and said they would heartily pray the Great Spirit to conduct us safely home. — Afterwards they proceedq^ to Tunesassah, and had a com- fortable meeting with the Indians at that place, where similar tokens o satisfaction were given by one of the chiefs. In the performance of this visit, she encountered many difficulties and disappointments, but returned home with innocent gladness t; the bosom of her family, like the faith- ftil husbandman wiih the last sheaf of the harvest: and at the end of her Journal, she has the following words: "I often had to say. Great and marvellous are thy works, thou great and Holy One." In the public interview she had with the Indians, she told them she had wanted to come and see them ever since she was a young woman. Al- though the accomplishment of this concern was long de- layed, yet in the end the recollection thereof afforded her solid satisfaction. She was often led into deep sympathy for those of her fellow-creatures held in bondage, and would sometimes speak in our religious meetings on their behalf; inviting the audience to lay the matter deeply to heart, and be ready on all occasions to act the part of the good Samaritan;— cautioning against that spirit which would pass by " on the other side." The coloured people who resided in her family, and many of those within the sphere of her ac- quaintance, have given strong testimony to her christian virtues. She frequently held up to view, publicly and privajely, the giteat importance of attending meetings for Divine wor- MARY LUKENS. 35 ship ; of which she was, through life, a practical example. On such occasions, she gave evidence that her mind was centred in that state of true spiritual devotion^ which is con- sistent with the dignity and solemnity of such opportuni- ties ; and her concern was, frequently to urge on those at- tending, to leave the world behind, — to avoid being en- gaged at the meeting-house on their worldly concerns, — and to guard against a drowsy or resdess disposition in meetings. In her family, she was kindly affectionate, and impress- ed upon her children (niwe in number) at an early age, the importance of attending to their religious duties. She also made it a rule to take as many of them to meeting with her, as circumstances would permit. She was in the prac- tice of frequently collecting her family together to wait upon the Lord ; on which occasions her children sometimes read in the scriptures or other religious books. In the year 1832, she Avas affected with a paralysis in her right side, which entirely disabled her right arm, and, for a time, her movements on foot. This deprivation she continued to bear with much christian resignation. The sick and needy, however, occupied her mind as usual ; and she would frequently urge some part of the family to in- quire into such cases, and give the necessary relief. After a time, she became so far restored as to be able to attend meetings, and was often exercised in her gift therein. By the assistance of her family and friends, she also perform- ed, at different times, several visits from home in the ser- vice of Truth. Two days before her death, she attended Cain Quarter- ly meeting; in the latter part of which, she was taken ill. Next day she returned home apparently recovered ; but the 36 NARY LUKENS. night follou inor she h.ad a severe attack, which continued several hours. In the morning, she spoke very affection- ately to her children and those' around her, nearly in these words: "Dear children, Ave must all die: remember it every day. It is an every-day Avork to be a christian. — Be not proud. Have God always before your e}-es. Love one another: — live in love." She also quoted several ap- propriate passages of scripture, and spoke of the love she felt for her good Master who had followed and fed her all her life long. She likeAvise spoke of the time she had been met Avith in early life, and made covenant with him, and that she had never had cause to repent it; adding, " I often had to re joice and be glad, that I was given up to do his will." Then said, "Oh! the importance of being ready! Nothing like it in all the Avorld. Dear children, keep a single eye to the Lord." At anotlier time she spoke of tlie early covenant she had made, and referred to the time of her first appearance in the ministry; — encouraging all to hold on, and the end Avould crown all ; and, making a short pause, she added, "Hosanna! Hosanna, to Him in the highest!" About noon, it Avas observed her breathing was attended with difficulty; — and in the evening, Avithout showing any symptoms of alarm or uneasiness, she made a quiet and peaceful close, on the 26th of the 10th month, 1839, in her seventy-sixth year. JOSEPH PARRISH. 37 A Testimony from the monthly meeting of Friends of Philadelphia held at Cherry Street, concerning Joseph Parrish. To perpetuate tlie memory of the righteous is justly considered a powerful auxiliary to the cause of piety and virtue ; — that they, although dead, may yet speak and con- tinue to hold forth the inviting language, Come follow us, as we have followed Christ, Under this view, we have been led to bear the following testimony concerning our beloved friend Joseph Parrish. He Vi'as born in Philadelphia on the 2nd day of the 9th month, 1779. Kis parents, Isaac and Sarah Parrish, lived to an advanced age and were valuable members of our re- ligious society ; adorning their profession by lives of prac- tical rightemi>nesg. Our dear friend was the youngest of eleven children, and was educated in the principlee of Truth ; it being the religious concern of his parents, to bring up their offspring in the "nurture and admonition of the Lord." At nn early age his mind appeared to be hum- bled under the tendering viHitalions of heavenly love; whereby he was brought to feel his entire depcndance upon the Divine Being for strength and preservation ; and by abiding under thisi feeling, he was mereifully preserved in a good degree of innocence and simplicity. As he passed through the slippery paths of youth, and was assailed by various temptations incident to this period of life, he often felt his own frailty; under a sense of which he Avas induced to seek opportunities for inward retire- ment, and for strength to maintain his integi-ity. Thus sub- mitting in early life to the power of Truth, he became a devoted follower of our Divine Master, exhibiting to his young associate?, by the innocence and simphcity of his 38 JOSEPH PARRISH. deportment, an example of obedience to the manifestations of Divine light in his soul. During his minority, he remained under the parental roof, learning the trade of a hatter, — that being the occu- pation of his father. He was however from early life strongly inclined to the study of medicine, and Avas pre- vented from pursuing it only through a fear on the part of his parents, that his young and tender mind would' be in- jured by the contaminating influences to which he might thereby be exposed. When he had reached his twenty- second year, the way opened to engage in the pursuit for which the inclination of his mind and the benevolence of his character, seemed peculiarly to be adapted. It appears from a Diary found among his papers, that he was intro- duced into deep baptism at the prospect of this underta- king,— fearing lest the many temptations to which he might be exposed, would weaken hi? allegiance to that Di- vine Power which had preserved him in the path of recti- tude. But by attention to tlie heavenly Guide, he was enabled so to pass through the period of his medical studies that he was remarked among his class-mates for liis fidelity to his religious testimonies, and for the sweetness and inno- cency of his disposition. In the year 1808, he was married to Susanna Cox, daughterof John and Ann Cox, of Burlington, New Jersey; with whom he lived in much harmony for more than thirty- two years. He was blessed with a numerous offspring ; — and, being deeply sensible of his responsible standing as the head of a family, it was his custom to collect them for the purpose of silent, social worship ; and as way opened, portions of the holy scriptures, or of some other good book, were read and commented upon for their edification and instruction. In the exercise of parental authority, he JOSEPH PARRISH. 39 combined firmness with meekness and love; striving to lead his children in the path of simplicity and truth, by the uprightness of his daily walk, before them and by affec- tionate admonition, rather than by coercive measures. In the practice of his profession, he was endeared to the sick and suffering by the tenderness and kindness which he manifested towards them ; and, being often brought near to them in spirit, he was qualified to administer consola- tion and comfort, both to them and to their sorrowing re- latives, in seasons of close proving. Being endowed with vigorous powers of mind, and possessing a remarkable ap- titude for the pursuit in which he was engaged, he became eminent for his medical skill and knowledge, and was ex- posed to the flattery and applause of men; — against these fascinating besetments, we believe he endeavoured to maintain a steady warfare, and that he was preserved in a humble dependance upon that Divine power which he had found sufficient to sustain him in ever\- trial. His confi- dence in the suflSc iency of this power is manifested in the followuiff extract from a letter, written some j^ears since to a friend: "I have a love for the Truth, but have not been without mv temptations to desert it; for I have known the day when the allurements of wealth and honour held out strong inducements to embark as a man of the world. A public station with which a large income was connected, was I believe within my reach. Ambition whispered, that in thus pursuing the natural bent of my genius, I could fill the station with honour. It was an important era of my life. I had arrived at the fulness of manhood, and the language was. Choose this day whom thou wilt serve. — When I cast my eyes on our tender offspring, and felt the. influence of a father's example upon them, — and when I ■cculd appeal to the Searcher of hearts, that I had no greater 40 JOSEPH PARRISH. joy than to see my cliildien walking in the Truth; — then it was that I cast the temptation from me, — and I hi.mbly trust renewedly chose the Lord for my portion, and the God of Jacob for the lot of my inheritance."' Notwithstanding his numerous avocations, he was a dili- gent attender of our religious meetings for worship and discipline; so arranging his businefss as to join with his friends on these occasions. For several years previous to his decease, he occupied the station of an elder in the church, — showing forth in his daily walk the power and efficacy of the fundamental principle we profess. He was led at times to exhort Friends to cultivate a closer acquaintance with our high and holy profession. The simplichy of tlie gospel, as taught by our Divine Master who chose the un- lettered fishermen of Galilee to be its promulgators, was often the subject of his remarks: — contrasting the plain and unadorned precepts contained in t!ie New Testament, with the dark and mysterious creeds, a belief in which is regarded by raany as essential to sah-ation. ' The disposi- tion manifested soiae, to connect abstnise doctrinal questions with the simple faith professed by early Friends, occasioned deep exercise to his mind ; and he was at times engaged to exhort the young to peruse the pages of the New Testament, that they might become familiar with its sublime truths, unalloyed by worldly wisdom. Above all, he endeavoured to persuade them to give reverent heed to iha.t principle of light and life in the soul, which is alone able to preserve from the temptations to which they are exposed. The solemn and deep feeling, evinced by our dear friend on these occasions, was impressive; and we trust he was an instrument of good to others, and that his labours were blessed amongst us. JOSEPH PARRISH. 41 He was firm ia his attachment to the excellent order of our discipline; — believing- it to have been established in Divine wisdom: and in the administration thereof he was clothed with the spirit'of meekness and forbearance, which peculiarly qualified him to treat with those who had gone astray. He viewed the discipline, not as a sword to cut off, but as a means of restoration ; and was often engaged to exhort Friends to tenderness and compassion towards offenders. In conducting the affairs of society, he was conspicuous in the exercise of brotherly love and conde- scension,— not claiming precedence for his own views over those of the least member of the flock. He also felt a deep concern for the younger portion of our members, — es- pecially those who come from the country as apprentices, and are exposed to many of the temptations of a large city, by which they are liable to be led astray. He was zealous to maintain our religious testimonies in their primitive purity, and to rally Friends to that Divine Principle which led our forefathers out of the superstitions and traditions by which they were surrounded ; and he firmly believed that by submission to the same heavenly Guide, it would preserve us as it did (hem. While he supported this view with an energy inspired by experience of its truth, he recognized, as consistent with this high prqfession, that " God alone is the sovereign Lord of con- science;" and that the faith essential to salvation is con- fined to no sect, — but is the immediate and universal gift of a benevolent Creator ; — to the sufficiency of which Paul bore testimony when he declared that "the gi-ace of God which bringeth salvation hath appeared unto all men." His views of the gospel principle of peace led him, not only to stand opposed to war and violence in all their forms, but to cultivHle a spirit of kindness and good will 42 JOSEPH PARRISH. toward those who mi^ht attempt to injure hi n. In the course of an extensive intercourse with his I'uliow-men, he never sued an individual at law : and when unjustly treat- ed, he embraced an early opportunity of doing the injurer an act of kindiiess. He bore testimony to the efficacy of this christian practice; observing, that its good effects were often manifested to his liumbling admiration, — the hearts of opposers being softened and reconciled, and his own soul enriched with the incomes of peace. During the late difficulties in the society, wlien heavy charges were made against us, he was particularly con- cerned that Friends should illustrate the sincerity of our profession, as the followers of him who when he was re- viled, reviled not again, — by lives of practical righteous- ness : — that so, being willing to suffer for the cause of Truth, they might obtain the blessing pronounced upon tliose against whom all manner of evil sliall be spoken falsely for Christ's sake. In relation to the property, considered the un- sullied maintenance of our peaceable testimonies of far greater importance, than the possession of earthly trea- sures; and advised against a resort to legal measures^ for the recovery of our just rights. And in places where Friends retained possession, he urged them to make offers of an eqitable division with the other portion of society. From early life he manifested a living testimony against injustice and oppression ; being frequently engaged in ad- vocating the cause of those who were the victims of arbi- trary power. lie felt a lively interest in the situation and welfare of the aborigines of our country ; and watched with deep concern those measures wliich affected their rights; being frequently engaged in portraying the wrongs and cruelties inflicted upon them, and in striving to awaken a sense of national justice on their behalf. He considered JOSEPH PARRISH. 43 that tliis injured people were not only entitled to our pro- tection and sympathy as a portion of the great family ol mankind; — but that we owed them a heavy debt of grati- tude for the care they exercised toward our ancestors, in ministering to then necessities in times of want and sick- ness, w hen far removed from the comforts and endearments of their native land. For the sufferings and privations of the people of colour in this land, his christiain feelings were strongly enlisted; and he held a prominent place among his fellow-citizens as an advocate of this oppressed class, — often pleading their cause in the spirit of meekness and love. He was also concerned to stir up the minds of Friends to a close examination of this important testimony, that the standard of justice and Truth might be exalted. His interest in this righteous cause appeared to increase with his years; and during the later period of his life he devoted much time in efforts for its advancement. His numerous acts of kindness towards the defenceless and unprotected, caused him to be generally esteemed as a humane and benevolent man ; and the oppressed regarded him as a friend and benefactor. His tenderness and sym- pathy for suffering extended likewise to the inferior ani- mals; and as he passed through tlie streets and witnessed the cruelty sometimes practised upon these, he was in- duced to expostulate with those who committed such acts. Nearly a year previous to his decease, the health of our beloved friend began to decline ; although he was not con- fined to his bed until within about three weeks of his close. During this period, he uttered many, instructive expres- sions, and" ttie peaceful serenity which often clothed his spirit, was witnessed by those around him. In this state ofbodily weakness and suffering, he frequently appeared ii JOSEPH PARRISU. to be engaged in silent supplication to the Father of mer. cies ; and, under a sense o'' his mercy and loving kindness, his heart overflowed with gratitude and praise. During his illness, his spirit also was drawn into sympathy with the suffering and afflicted who were deprived of the com- forts and consolations by which he was surrounded; and he impressed upon those who were ministering to his wants, not to forget the duty which they owed to this class of their fellow-beings. On one occasion he said, "During this illness, I have passed through some deep baptisms, and have been ready to inquire, whether they were for my own benefit, or for the benefit of others." "I have seen the great beauty ot the Principle which we as a society profess. It has been my stay and solace from early childhood ; and the more we know of it, the more shall we be satisfied that it is founded on the Rock of ages." At anotlicr time, after a solemn pause, in which he Iiad evidently been engaged in silent supplication, he remarked with much humility and brokenness, — " I have not been permitted to see how this illness is to terminate. I have nothing to boast of; I have been an object of Divine mercy from my very childhood: and upon that I depend now. It is an unspeakable con- solation to be permitted to see that an immortal crown is prepared for me." After these expressions, his counte- nance seemed clothed with a sweet solemnity ; and on be- ing asked whether he had been asleep, he replied, "Oh! no: I have been in a far more delightful state than sleep." He attempted to proceed, but his feelings overcame him. On another occasion, he impressively repeated this text of scripture, " Unto tis a child is born, — unto us a son is given, — and his name shall be called Wonderful, Coun- sr *Uor, the Mighty God, the everlasting Fath.;r, and the JOSEPH PARRISH. 45 Prince of peace." And again, "We have an high priest, touched with the feeling of our infirmities." As the disease advanced, his sight and hearing became almost extinct, — yet his mind continued clear. On being inquired of in a loud voice by one of his physicians, how he felt, he replied with much composure and serenity, " Very weak in body, doctor, but I cast all my care upon that Power which is over all, and above all." After he had become unconscious of what was passing around him, his mind seemed absorbed in heavenly con- templation; and a few hours before his close, he repeated the declaration of our blessed Lord, "Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world and then added with emphasis, " It is a truth; — it was declared by the Minister of ministers." And soon after he said, "His arm is not shortened, that it cannot save, — nor his ear grown heavy" — here his voice faltered, and he was unable to complete the sentence. Soon after this, his expressions ceased to be intelligible, and he quietly departed this life on the morning of the 18th of the 3d month, 1840, in the sixty-first year of his age. Thus closed the valuable labours of a beloved elder in the Truth, and of a christian philanthropist who was emi- nently useful in his day. By an early surrender to the tendering operations of Divine Love, and a devoted ad- herence to its manifestations, he was enabled to live the life of the righteous, and to finish his course with joy, having an earnest of a blessed immortality in the realms of bliss. CONTENTS Of Memorials, concerning Ann Peirce, ...... page 3 ■Wiiiiam Boen, ...... 4 Rach l Rowland, 8 J,)hn Hunt, 12 Willia:n Tnylor, 13 Hugh Foiilke, 20 Levick Palmer, 23 Elis^ha Dawson, 25 Bartholomew Fussell, .... 29 Mary Luken?, 32 Joseph Parrifh, - 87