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MEMORIALS 
 
 CONCERNING 
 
 SEVERAL MINISTERS, 
 
 AND 
 
 OTHERS, DECEASED; 
 
 OF THE RELIGIOUS 
 
 SOCIETY OF FRIENDS; 
 
 SOME OF THEIR LAST EXPRESSIONS, 
 
 New York: Printed, 1814, 
 
 Hon&on: 
 
 RE-PIUNTFD AND SOLO BY W. PHILLIPS, 
 CE0RG2 YARD, LOMBARD STREET. 
 
 1816. 
 
p 11 e face; 
 
 THE Meeting for sufferings representing the Year!) 
 Meeting of the Society of Friends, for the State of New 
 York, and parts adjacent, taking into consideration, 
 that no publicity by printing had been given to the tes- 
 timonies concerning deceased Friends on record ; and 
 believing, that a suitable selection from them would 
 promote the cause of religion, have prepared this woik 
 for the press, in the hope that the relations therein con- 
 tained of the peaceful close of those who, by obedience 
 to the manifestations of divine Grace, had witnessed an 
 advancement in the saving knowledge of our Lord Jesus 
 Christ, would tend to excite others to similar faithful- 
 ness, in observing that it had produced in them the 
 genuine fruits of vital Christianity, in the truths of 
 which they had most surely believed: and that it had 
 preserved them through the trials and vicissitudes of life, 
 and at its solemn period had disarmed death of its terrors, 
 and given them a foretaste of the joys which God hath 
 prepared for them that love him. 
 
 " Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright; for 
 the end of that man is peace/' Psalm xxxvjt. 37. 
 
MEMORIALS 
 
 CONCEENINC 
 
 SEVERAL MINISTERS, 
 
 AND OTHERS, DECEASED. 
 
 The Testimony of John Way, concerning 
 Richard Hallet. Approved by the 
 Monthly Meeting of Flushing. 
 
 OUR worthy friend, Richard Hallet,, was 
 born within the limits of Newtown,, on 
 Long Island. His parents were members 
 of the Church of England, in which pro- 
 fession he was educated ; and when about 
 the 19th or 20th year of his age, being re- 
 duced to a low, weak state, by a wound on 
 his foot, which confined him to the house 
 near nine months, his mind became im- 
 pressed with religious concern, and he often 
 A3 
 
took notice of the wanton and airy carriage 
 of libertine young people, who frequented 
 his father's house ; and as their conduct 
 became a grief to his mind., he would some- 
 times reprove them ; whereupon some told 
 him, they believed he would be a Quaker : 
 to whom he replied that he believed the 
 people called Quakers, walked nearest the 
 rule laid down by Christ for his followers. 
 In this state of confinement, he had frequent 
 desires to attend Friends' Meetings ; but 
 being prevented through inability,, betook 
 himself to reading their books ; among 
 which, was one entitled, c A Loving Invita- 
 tion to Young and Old/ written by our 
 friend, Thomas Chalkley, with which he 
 expressed great satisfaction. As soon as 
 bodily strength would admit, he rode to 
 meetings, taking with him his crutch and 
 staff, by which means he was enabled to 
 attend them some time before he could 
 walk ; being fervent in spirit, the Lord 
 condescended to favour him with the in 
 comes of his love, by which his heart was 
 often tendered, ere he felt a necessity of 
 appearing in public ministry ; the first of 
 
which was in supplication at a meeting in 
 New York. I was in company with him 
 at the time, and was sensible that his mind 
 was favoured with the overshadowing wing 
 of divine kindness, and that his offering was 
 to good satisfaction. He met with close 
 trials from his father, before he left him, 
 for not conforming to the Church ceremo- 
 nies, but his mother being a tender spirited 
 woman v was grieved at such treatment. 
 His father, in order to try him, bid him 
 take the key of his chest, unlock it, and 
 bring his will to him ; which being done, 
 he told him, that, since he hearkened to 
 the counsel of others more than to his 
 parents, he should not be the better for his 
 property, and then cancelled it before him ; 
 but that saying of Christ rose in his mind, 
 to signify to his father, " he that loveth 
 father or mother, house or lands, or any 
 thing more than me, is not worthy of me;" 
 at which, his father was silent some time ; 
 and then replied, ' What ! do you think, 
 that I would not have you love Christ?" 
 But Richard expressed his willingness to 
 part with all for his Master's sake. About 
 a 4 
 
8 
 
 ihis time he bought a place near the Kilns., 
 in Newtown, to which he removed ; and 
 after his marriage, continued a member of 
 the Meeting at Newtown. He was an ex- 
 cellent example in the attendance of meet- 
 ings, in conversation, in charity, both as to 
 hospitality and love. His ministry was 
 plain, sound, and lively ; and he often ex- 
 horted his friends to faithfulness, and to 
 prize time. He was very useful in the 
 discipline ; a great lover of Friends, and 
 others, being of a truly Catholic disposi- 
 tion ; expressing frequently the apostle 
 Peter's testimony to the universality of the 
 love of God ; c< I perceive of a truth, that 
 God is no respecter of persons ; but in every 
 nation, he that feareth God and workcth 
 righteousness, shall be accepted." He was 
 a faithful watchman, and frequently gave 
 the alarm when he apprehended the ap- 
 proach of the enemy, often reminding us 
 in his testimony, that the Lord's arm was 
 not shortened, that he could not save ; nor 
 his ear heavy, that he could not hear ; but 
 would condescend graciously to fulfil the 
 promise made unto the two or three who 
 
were met in his name, unto which divine 
 power he often commended friends, mani- 
 festing a disposition like one formerly ; 
 who, for Zion's sake, would not hold his 
 peace, nor for Jerusalem's sake rest, until 
 the righteousness thereof should go forth 
 as brightness, and the salvation as a lamp 
 that burnetii. 
 
 I visited him often in his last illness, 
 when his bodily affliction was so great, 
 that he could take little or no rest ; and 
 finding- him, one time, a little relieved, I 
 asked him how he did : his answer was, 
 " Very poorly ;" upon which, I expressed 
 great sorrow, to see him in such affliction ; 
 but that I believed it was all he had to do, 
 having been faithful : he replied, we shall 
 have nothing to spare : and this he often 
 reminded Friends of, in his testimony con- 
 cerning the ten virgins. One thing I may 
 not omit, viz. his particular care, when 
 meetings were appointed, to give general 
 notice ; in which he manifested a great 
 desire that others might come, taste, and 
 see how good the Lord is. In his religious 
 labours, he approved himself diligent and 
 a 5 
 
10 
 
 faithful to the last period of his time : and 
 no doubt, has received a crown of right- 
 eousness, so pathetically described by the 
 eminent apostle, as laid up in store for all 
 them that love the appearance of our Lord 
 Jesus. May we that remain, so follow him 
 as he followed Christ, that through like 
 fervent love and faithful obedience, at the 
 winding up of time, we may also have the 
 same blessed assurance. 
 
11 
 
 The Testimony of the Monthly Meeting, at 
 Nine Partners, concerning Aaron Vail. 
 
 HE was born in Westchester County, 
 in the province of New York, in 1722. 
 His parents professed with the Presbyte- 
 rians, amongst whom he had his education ; 
 and being in his youth often under religious 
 concern, he was favoured with seasons of 
 spiritual refreshment, and as he advanced 
 in years, his exercise increased, and he 
 frequented the meetings of different socie- 
 ties ; but did not witness that peace of 
 mind his soul sought after, until about the 
 twenty-seventh year of his age, when he 
 found his mind led to attend the meetings 
 of our society, in which he found the con- 
 solation of divine love, that often broke 
 him into tenderness, and produced longing 
 desires for the prosperity of the truth. 
 About the twenty-ninth year of his age, he 
 removed to Nine Partners, with his family, 
 and continued to be a constant attender of 
 our meetings for divine worship, and was 
 received a member of our society, in the 
 a G 
 
12 
 
 year 1753 ; and, being careful to attend to 
 that power which had operated in his mind, 
 it pleased the Lord to bestow on him a gift 
 in the ministry. It was his lot often to 
 pass through much tribulation and poverty 
 of spirit ; and he became qualified to divide 
 the word aright, and was an able minister 
 of the gospel, through the sanctifying power 
 thereof; he was often concerned to travel 
 in the work of the ministry, and was fre- 
 quently led to labour in the discipline, that 
 truth's judgment might not be evaded ; and 
 having an excellent gift therein, he became 
 very serviceable in the church. He was 
 likewise much engaged for the freedom of 
 the oppressed Africans^ and that Friends 
 might be entirely clear of the gain of op- 
 pression, and be redeemed from all selfish 
 views. He was concerned to admonish 
 others to wait on the Lord in silence, as 
 the only way to witness their strength re- 
 newed ; and practised the same, by calling 
 his family to sit in retirement ; thus adorn- 
 ing the doctrine he preached by his own 
 example. He was courteous and affable 
 in conversation, and much beloved in his 
 
13 
 
 neighbourhood ; a kind and loving hus- 
 band, and an affectionate father. A short 
 time before his last sickness, he was exer- 
 cised in public ministry in a lively manner; 
 saying, that he thought his day's work was 
 nearly done : and he appeared to be much 
 concerned that Friends should dwell in the 
 life of religion, that they might witness the 
 ancient power to be their support, by which 
 they would be able to stand in times of 
 trial, as he apprehended a time would come, 
 when every foundation would be tried. In 
 his illness, he was also much concerned that 
 his wife and children should live near the 
 Lord, and know him to be their portion and 
 the lot of their inheritance, and that his 
 children might be preserved in love and 
 tender affection to their mother, and one 
 towards another. After a lingering sick- 
 ness of some years, he departed this life, 
 the eleventh of the Eighth month, 1776, in 
 the fifty-fifth year of his age, having been 
 a minister about twelve years. 
 
14 
 
 The Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of 
 Westburi/, concerning Samuel Prior. 
 
 BY taking heed to the visitations of 
 divine love in his youthful days,, he wit- 
 nessed the powerful effects thereof, aud 
 became qualified for the service of Truth. 
 He had a gift in the ministry bestowed on 
 him when young, in the exercise of which 
 we believe he was faithful. He bore a 
 steady testimony against the corrupt cus- 
 toms and fashions of the world, both by 
 example and precept; being himself a plain 
 man, and free from affectation, his ministry 
 was sound and edifying. He was a diligent 
 attender of our religious meetings, while 
 health and strength permitted, but did not 
 travel much abroad ; and when, through 
 infirmity of body, he was confined at home, 
 he manifested resignation of mind to the 
 divine will. His greatest concern appeared 
 to be about heavenly things, many times 
 expressing his desires to see Friends pros- 
 per in the Truth. 
 
 He was a loving husband, a tender father, 
 
15 
 
 a sympathizing friend, and much beloved 
 in his neighbourhood. When the time of 
 his departure drew nigh, he often expressed 
 his desire, that he might be preserved in 
 patience till his change came ; appearing 
 in a childlike state, filled with innocence 
 and humility. A few days before his death, 
 being visited by some Friends, he expressed 
 himself to this effect : f My days are near 
 wound up, I think;" and it being observed 
 to him, that they believed he was willing, 
 he replied, (C Yea, if I am prepared." He 
 departed this life, the twenty-fourth of the 
 Fourth month, one thousand seven hundred 
 and seventy-eight, aged upwards of eighty- 
 four years, and we believe now enjoys the 
 reward of the righteous. 
 
16 
 
 The Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of 
 Purchase, concerning Piiebe Weeks. 
 
 SHE was convinced of the rectitude of 
 the principles of Friends when young ; but 
 through reasoning and disobedience, con- 
 tinued in weakness, and in the want of that 
 peace which the faithful enjoy ; but the 
 Lord in mercy following her with convic- 
 tion and reproof, so wrought upon her, that 
 she resigned herself to answer his requiring, 
 by which she obtained comfort and satis- 
 faction of mind ; and persevering in good 
 measure in faithfulness, she was called to 
 the work of the ministry ; and although 
 her communications were not extensive, yet 
 they were acceptable and edifying. She 
 was a faithful wife, a tender and watchful 
 mother, a good neighbour, and given to 
 hospitality. She was zealous that discipline 
 might be maintained, and Friends' children 
 kept in plainness of speech and apparel. 
 Some time before her last sickness, she ex- 
 pressed to her husband, that she daily felt 
 the comfort of the holy Spirit to such a 
 
17 
 
 degree, as not to expect her stay would be 
 long in this world; saying, "that she felt 
 a preparation, and was willing to die;" 
 adding, " could any desire her stay in a 
 world of trouble, who had an interest in a 
 better to come V s In her last sickness, she 
 spoke but little, though what she said was 
 savoury and tendering to those present. She 
 departed this life, the 12th of Third month, 
 1779, aged 45 years. 
 
18 
 
 The Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of 
 Flushing, concerning Matthew Franklin. 
 
 HE was many years a faithful labourer 
 in the gospel : his ministry was sound and 
 edifying; and he frequently exhorted others 
 to love, and good works ; inviting them to 
 come, taste, and see how good the Lord is. 
 He was a diligent attender of our religious 
 meetings both for worship and discipline, 
 often visiting* the neighbouring meetings, 
 and sometimes those in other colonies. He 
 was serviceable in transacting the affairs of 
 the church, and the want of his fatherly care 
 is frit by us. He wis a tender husband, a 
 good neighbour, cheerful and pleasant with 
 young and old, ready to reprove for evil, 
 but not austere; open hearted among his 
 friends and others, being a good example 
 of industry in his temporal affairs, which 
 enabled him to spare to those who were in 
 need, and he entertained many friends free- 
 ly at his house. His plain, meek, and in- 
 nocent deportment, was very inviting; he 
 was in a good degree raised above the fad- 
 
19 
 
 ing enjoyments of this world, and when his 
 outward man was decaying, and his time 
 seemed nearly at an end, the heart-melting 
 goodness of the Lord made his cup to run 
 over, and we believe he measurably felt 
 that evidence in himself, which is expressed 
 by the eminent apostle, 2 Timothy, iv. 7, 8, 
 " I have fought a good fight, I have finished 
 my course, 1 have kept the faith : henceforth 
 there is laid up for me a crown of righteous- 
 ness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, 
 shall give me at that day : and not to me 
 only, but unto all them also that love his 
 appearing." In his last sickness, a friend 
 went to see him, and after a time of silence, 
 he broke into tears, and expressed himself 
 as follows : cc O, God ! thou art good, and 
 thy tender mercies are over' all thy works : 
 may all the inhabitants of the earth praise 
 thee : thou art good, thy arm hath been 
 underneath me, and been my support, or I 
 had fainted long ago, blessed be thy name, 
 s'aith my soul." He was preserved in re- 
 signation and stability of mind, and departed 
 this life, the 29th of the Ninth month, 1780, 
 in the 82d year of his age. 
 
20 
 
 The Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of 
 Westbury, concerning Phebe Dodge. 
 
 BY taking heed to the dictates of Truths 
 she gradually experienced the work of sanc- 
 tification, through the operation of the holy 
 Spirit, when young in years ; and through 
 faithfulness, she became qualified to tell unto 
 others what the Lord had done for her, hav- 
 ing a gift in the ministry committed to her, 
 in the exercise of which, she was instrumen- 
 tal to stir up the pure mind, so that many 
 can from a degree of experience say, they 
 have felt the comfortable effects of her fer- 
 vent labour. She found her mind engaged 
 in gospel love to visit the churches abroad, 
 and in the year 1752, with the unity and 
 concurrence of her brethren and sisters, she 
 performed a visit to Friends in Great Britain; 
 and on her return home, with the reward of 
 peace, she produced certificates expressive 
 of the satisfaction of Friends with her reli- 
 gious service. Her ministry was lively and 
 instructive, accompanied with a fervent zeal 
 for the honour of God, and the good of souls. 
 
21 
 
 She was of an exemplary life and conver- 
 sation, a good neighbour, an affectionate 
 friend, and open hearted to the poor. She 
 was often exercised in visiting families, and 
 appeared to be suitably qualified for that 
 weighty service, and was truly a mother in 
 Israel.. When, through infirmity of body, 
 she was prevented being much abroad, she 
 often expressed her concern, that Friends 
 might be given up to the service of visiting 
 families ; and would frequently, as oppor- 
 tunity offered, endeavour to encourage the 
 practice of silent waiting and retirement in 
 families, and was a good example therein 
 to the last. For several years before her 
 departure, she was so infirm as not to be 
 able to meet constantly with her friends at 
 the place of public worship ; but when of 
 ability to attend, was frequently enabled to 
 preach the truth of the gospel ; and when, 
 by increased debility, she was confined at 
 home, she appeared like one whose mind 
 was much redeemed from these lower and 
 fading enjoyments : being often filled with 
 divine love, it flowed to those who came to 
 see her, and many who visited her towards 
 
22 
 
 the solemn close,, were comforted in behold- 
 ing the greenness in advanced age conspi- 
 cuous in her ; for, although her outward 
 tabernacle was decaying, and drew towards 
 its dissolution, yet, being inwardly renewed, 
 her mind was many times lifted up in thanks- 
 giving and praise to her Redeemer ; and 
 like one whose day's work was done, she 
 seemed waiting for the time when she might 
 be called from this state of being, into the 
 mansions of never-ending felicity. In the 
 time of her last illness, which was short, 
 she appeared in a composed frame of mind, 
 saying, her time was near at an end, and 
 that she believed it would be well with her. 
 She departed this life at Cowneck, the place 
 of her residence, the ?th of the Ninth month, 
 1782, aged 83 j ears, a minister near 60. 
 
 Postscript. — The testimony of the Men's 
 Meeting, concerning our dear, ancient 
 friend, Phebe Dodge, deceased, was read 
 in our Monthly Meeting of Women Friends, 
 held at Westbury, and we have good unity 
 with it, yet we feel our minds engaged to 
 make an addition thereto, from our own 
 
23 
 
 knowledge and experience of her services 
 and faithful labours. ' She was endowed 
 with an acceptable gift in the ministry, in 
 the exercise of which, she was lively and 
 edifying, and frequently favoured with the 
 spirit of prayer and supplication, and ena- 
 bled fervently to intercede that the Lord 
 would be pleased to send forth more labour- 
 ers into his harvest, seeing it was great, 
 and the labourers few. She was very ser- 
 viceable in our meetings for discipline, being 
 well qualified for transacting the affairs of 
 the church, and concerned for the proper 
 government and comely order thereof. She 
 was quick of discernment, and sound in 
 judgement ; and though close and plain with 
 obstinate transgressors, and those at ease 
 in Zion, yet to those in whom appeared 
 the tender impressions of Truth, her advice 
 and doctrine were as the dew of Hermon 
 and the small rain upon the tender grass ; 
 and we believe her ministry was instru- 
 mental in the divine hand, to turn from 
 the power of darkness to the power of 
 God. 
 
 We conclude, with desires that her gospel 
 
24 
 
 labours may be sanctified to us her survi- 
 vors, and quicken our minds to follow her 
 footsteps ; that at last, we may receive, as 
 we believe she hath done, an entrance 
 into that kingdom, where the wicked cease 
 from troubling, and the weary are at rest. 
 
25 
 
 The Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of 
 Westbury, concerning Sarah Mott. 
 
 THROUGH attention to the discoveries 
 of divine grace, she was enabled to live a 
 careful, inoffensive life, being measurably 
 clothed with a meek and quiet spirit. She 
 was a steady attender of our religious meet- 
 ings, when of ability of body, and ex- 
 emplary in a solid, quiet waiting therein ; 
 a good neighbour, a loving and affection- 
 ate wife, a tender mother, kind and open 
 hearted to those that stood in need of re- 
 lief : and that she continued in a steady, 
 humble perseverance to the end of her time, 
 will appear by the following expressions 
 which she delivered during her last illness. 
 
 A few days before her departure, being 
 asked to take some refreshment, she answer* 
 ed, " Nay, I seem otherwise engaged/' and 
 desired those present to draw near her bed- 
 side : although her weakness was such, that 
 for some time it had been difficult for her to 
 express herself, yet she was favoured at this 
 time to speak considerably, and tell what 
 
 B 
 
26 
 
 the Lord had done for her, desiring all to 
 prepare for such a time ; adding, each must 
 do his own work ; and spoke tenderly to 
 her children, desiring them to go to meet- 
 ings, and when there, to endeavour to get 
 their minds into true silence, a state suitable 
 to receive instruction, both in meetings and 
 out ; saying, she thought her outward em- 
 ployment never went on better, than when 
 her mind was devoted to the great Giver, 
 who hath all power in his hands, to give 
 plentifully or withhold, as he may see meet; 
 and said, " I entreat you to remember the 
 poor, and be ready to lend a hand of help, 
 for I have thought, that none have been 
 the poorer for being kind to those that stand 
 in need, and some I have thought, have 
 been blessed in basket and in store on that 
 account;" and entreated them to give up 
 to serve the Lord, in the flower of their age. 
 She often expressed, that she longed for the 
 time of separation to come, yet desired to 
 be preserved in patience to the end, and 
 some time after broke forth after this man- 
 ner : " I can sing praises to thy great name, 
 and am thankful for thy favours in con 
 
27 
 
 tinuing thy mercy, from time to time, to 
 me, a poor unworthy creature ; and if it be 
 consistent with thy divine will, grant, I pray 
 thee, an easy passage. " Thus, in much 
 quietude and patience, appearing to have 
 her last prayer granted, she departed this 
 life, the 10th of the First Month, 1783, * 
 the 47th year of her age. 
 
 b2 
 
28 
 
 The Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of 
 Westbury, concerning John Willis. 
 
 HE was born at Jericho, the 8th of the 
 Second Month, 1734, of religious parents, 
 viz. Samuel and Mary Willis, who care- 
 fully educated him in the principles of 
 Truth as professed by Friends, and he was 
 early visited by the secret manifestations 
 of divine love, as he has been often heard 
 to express, yet the vanities of this life, and 
 a too eager pursuit of temporal things, 
 prevented his yielding obedience to those 
 divine visitations, until about the 24th year 
 of his age, when, pursuing his business with 
 his usual vigour, he was suddenly taken 
 with a bleeding of the lungs, occasioned 
 (as was believed) by too great an exertion 
 of his natural strength, by which he was 
 so reduced, that his recovery was rendered 
 doubtful : in this condition, he was brought 
 under great exercise of mind respecting 
 his soul's peace, and was enabled to cry 
 for mercy, and that he might witness the 
 presence of the Lord to his comfort. The 
 
29 
 
 strong man that had been so eagerly pursu- 
 ing temporal enjoyments, was now brought 
 down, and the creature reduced to a de- 
 pendence on his Creator ; and he has often 
 been heard to say, that he believed his days 
 were lengthened to him, on condition of his 
 yielding himself in faithfulness to the Lord's 
 requiring ; and by the resignation of his 
 own will he experienced peace, and by the 
 healing virtue of divine power, his mind 
 was turned from a delight in worldly en- 
 joyments to an earnest pursuit of those 
 things which are eternal ; and being fa- 
 voured measurably to recover his bodily 
 strength, he became a diligent attender of 
 our religious meetings, and continuing fer- 
 vent in spirit, he grew in religious expe- 
 rience, and was of exemplary deportment ; 
 and being faithful to the farther openings 
 and discoveries of divine grace. About the 
 thirty-fifth year of his age, the Lord was 
 pleased to call him to the work of the mi- 
 nistry, and by continued obedience, he be- 
 came an able minister of the gospel, and 
 much concerned for the support of our 
 Christian discipline. He was concerned to 
 b3 
 
so 
 
 order his own house well, and to nurture 
 his children in the fear and admonition of 
 the Lord, and was often exercised in religi- 
 ous visits to Friends' families ; and though 
 he lived at a considerable distance from 
 meeting, he often attended under much bo- 
 dily weakness, occasioned by frequent re- 
 turns of the indisposition before mentioned, 
 where he was enabled, with strength of 
 voice as if in health, to testify of the good- 
 ness of God, to the comfort and refreshment 
 of many, and to invite all to come, taste 
 mid see that the Lord is good. Notwith- 
 standing his weak state of body, he several 
 times visited the churches in some of the 
 neighbouring provinces, as well as those 
 within the compass of our own Yearly Meet- 
 ing, and his labours were to the satisfaction 
 and comfort of his friends, and the peace of 
 his own mind. A little before he was con- 
 fined at home, he made a satisfactory visit 
 to the meetings constituting the Monthly 
 Meeting of Westbury, of which he was a 
 member, to take a final farewell of his 
 friends. 
 
 When he became confined at home, 
 
SI 
 
 (through the continuance of his disorder, 
 which terminated in a consumption) and 
 expected his dissolution was drawing near, 
 he appeared in a composed frame of mind, 
 and was frequently led to administer suit- 
 able counsel and advice to divers of the 
 youth and others who came to visit him. 
 He also delivered many weighty expres- 
 sions to his relations and others, who at- 
 tended him, the substance of some of which 
 follows, viz. 
 
 As two of his sisters were sitting in si- 
 lence with hinij he said, cc Such seasons 
 are comfortable ; the Lord has reserved a 
 blessing for his seed, from one generation 
 to another :" at another time, he said, he 
 saw nothing in his way, but felt great 
 peace ; and again said, he had not been 
 weary in the way the Lord had been pleas- 
 ed to lead him ; and now, the comfort and 
 satisfaction it afforded was beyond words 
 to express. The day before his departure,, 
 he said several times, he felt death, but at 
 intervals said, (e Life is -strong, and will not 
 yield ; but the Lord's will be done ; " and 
 said, " Oh, my gracious Father ! thou 
 b 4 
 
32 
 
 knowest my love to thee is strong/* Ob- 
 serving one of his sisters to weep, he said^ 
 n What makes thee mourn ? there is more 
 occasion of joy, than sorrow ! *■' and desired 
 that those who were about him might be 
 still ; saying, " It is at times hard to part ; 
 but the blessing is above all." A few mi- 
 nutes before his departure, he said, ie I am 
 going to the Father! Oh, come quickly, 
 thy servant is ready;" and soon after, 
 quietly departed this life, aged upwards 
 of 54 years 
 
33 
 
 The Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of 
 New York, concerning Thomas Burling., 
 son of Thomas Burling. 
 
 AS the power of Truth on the mind is at 
 seasons remarkably felt and experienced, 
 so the present instance affords an evidence 
 of that divine love, and holy help, which, 
 as an arm of mercy underneath, in a re- 
 markable manner enabled this youth to 
 bear, with fortitude and resignation, his 
 last illness, and to shew forth the goodness 
 of the Lord, by the operation of Truth on 
 his heart. He was taken ill about the 8th 
 of the Third Month, so as to be confined 
 to the house. In the forepart of the time, 
 he appeared much concerned about his fu- 
 ture happiness, and bore his pain and sick- 
 ness with patience, his mind appearing to 
 be divinely supported under the trying dis- 
 pensation ; the tenth of the month, he was 
 confined to his bed, having been the pre- 
 ceding night much spent with severe vomit- 
 ing, but in the morning, he was somewhat 
 relieved ; his countenance appearing com- 
 . b 5 
 
34 
 
 posed, he said to one of his aunts, (< I am 
 very weak and low, and don't know whe- 
 ther I shall recover, dost thou think I 
 shall 1" He was answered, she Ci hoped he 
 would," and desired him to endeavour to 
 keep his mind quiet and resigned : in a lit- 
 tle time after, his countenance appearing 
 to her very sweet, and his mind easy, she 
 asked him how he felt, he said, " I feel bet- 
 ter/' but soon complained of his stomach. 
 Seventh-day morning he grew much worse, 
 and the vomiting returning, he said to his 
 aunt, " I believe I am going ; dost thou 
 not think so?" She asked him if he was 
 willing, he readily answered, " Yes, and 
 shall go to the Lord," and then prayed to 
 the Lord, that he would be pleased to take 
 him, and cause him to sit down with him, 
 saying, <( he hath made my feet like hind's 
 feet, and set me on high places ;" and again 
 prayed with great fervency of spirit, nearly 
 as follows: ie Oh, blessed, holy Father! 
 thou that makest a way in the deep, and 
 paths in the great waters, if it be thy bless- 
 ed will, with thy dear Son, who gave him- 
 self for the world, grant that I may witness 
 
35 
 
 thy light to shine on my tabernacle, and 
 join angels and archangels, who for ever 
 worship thee in singing hallelujah, with 
 might, majesty, and dominion, for thou art 
 worthy, world without end. Amen, Amen/' 
 One of his uncles came in to see him, to 
 whom he said, " My dear uncle, thou hast 
 been very kind to me, but I am going to 
 leave thee," and signified, that he hoped 
 shortly to be in heaven, should it be the 
 will of his heavenly Father, to allow him 
 a seat in his holy mansions ; there to join 
 in songs of hallelujah to his great name ; 
 and then desired to be remembered to his 
 relations at Rah way, and bid him farewell. 
 There appearing now no hope of his re- 
 covery, he asked his father if he was will- 
 ing to give him up, who said, it was hard, 
 but he endeavoured to be resigned; after 
 a little pause, he said, <c Don't be uneasy, 
 father, about me," and soon after prayed 
 in such a manner as excited great tender- 
 ness in those near him, making use of such 
 expressions, as some thought, till then, he 
 had no idea of. One of his aunts coming 
 to the bedside, to ofier him some drink, he 
 b6 
 
36 
 
 looked up with a composed countenance, 
 and said to her, {< I shall go before my 
 cousin Benjamin/ ' (who was then supposed 
 to be near his end) and further added, " I 
 little thought of being taken away at this 
 time of life. " Expressing a desire to see 
 two of his uncles, after a short time they 
 came in with a friend, he gave each of them 
 his hand, and said, " I am going," and ask- 
 ed the friend if he thought he should go 
 happy? " Yes, dear child, there is no 
 doubt with me," and after a short pause, 
 added, " there is a blessing for thee ; rest 
 is near at hand ;" he then said, " Oh, that 
 I may be founded and grounded on the 
 mighty rock of ages;" and being filled 
 with praises to the Lord, he frequently 
 prayed with great fervency, acknowledg- 
 ing, with concern of mind, that he had not 
 been so thankful as he ought, for the many 
 benefits and mercies he had received. He 
 was very affectionate and loving, and se- 
 veral times expressed a concern for all pre- 
 sent, that their minds might be compossd 
 and brought into humility and true obe- 
 dience, so as to worship God in spirit, who, 
 
37 
 
 he said, was alone worthy of all honour and 
 glory ; and further said, " Holy Father, if 
 it be thy blessed will, look down on thy 
 poor servant this evening. ,J Appearing to 
 be mueh spent with frequent speaking, he 
 was told he was very short of breath, and 
 had better lay as still and quiet as might 
 be, on that account, to which he answered, 
 rf I cannot help acknowledging the many 
 favours the Lord hath bestowed on me." 
 
 And being then thought near his end, 
 of which he seemed very sensible, he inti- 
 mated his desire of taking leave of his near 
 relations and others present, which was a 
 very solemn and affecting scene, taking 
 each by the hand and mostly calling them 
 by name, as they came to the bed-side, 
 saying, <( Farewell, I am going, the Lord's 
 will be done." Last of all, came some of 
 his schoolmates, to whom he gave his hand, 
 in like manner, and expressing the same 
 words, with 4 which they were mostly much 
 tendered. Then he lay still some time,, as 
 in sleep, but remained not long in that 
 manner, before he asked for some drink, 
 after which, he continued praying and 
 
S8 
 
 praising the Lord, as long as his strength 
 permitted, sometimes with a raised voice so 
 as to be heard in the adjoining* room ; his 
 strength gradually declining, drawing his 
 breath shorter and shorter, till he drew 
 his last, he departed without struggle, sigh, 
 or groan, the 1 3th of the Third month, 
 1790, aged 14 years. 
 
 Thus died this youth, exhibiting in his 
 last moments such fortitude of mind, and 
 such resignation to the Lord's will, in hope 
 of a glorious immortality, as may serve 
 for an example, not only to the young and 
 rising generation, but also to those further 
 advanced in life. 
 
39 
 
 The Testimony of Stephen and Amy Mott, 
 concerning their daughter Abigail. Ap- 
 proved by the Monthly Meeting of West- 
 bury. 
 
 FROM very early life, she manifested 
 more than common stability and circum- 
 spection in life and conduct, which evi- 
 dently increased as she ripened in age and 
 experience, and being* of good natural ta- 
 lents, and having a lively sense of religion, 
 she was truly amiable ; and although in 
 conversation she was prudent and guarded, 
 yet her intimate friends and acquaintance 
 enjoyed an agreeable cheerfulness and af- 
 fability in her company, which her modesty 
 and diffidence deprived those of, who were 
 not so well acquainted with her ; she was 
 loving and dutiful to her parents, and ten- 
 derly affectionate to her friends, and in- 
 deed to all with whom she had to do ; very 
 charitable to the poor, and sympathizing 
 with the afflicted ; she was exemplary in 
 attending meetings, and encouraged the 
 rest of the family in that important duty ; 
 
40 
 
 many times,, whilst in health, expressing 
 concern when she observed the youth or 
 those more advanced in age, deviate from 
 their religious profession. About three years 
 before her decease, she was brought under 
 bodily indisposition, which indicated de- 
 clining health ; endeavours were used for 
 tlie removal of her complaints, but they 
 proved ineffectual ; during which time, she 
 became more fully sensible of the insuf- 
 ficiency of all terrestrial enjoyments, and 
 more weaned from the love and pursuit of 
 them, and her affections were increasingly 
 placed on things permanent and eternal. 
 About three months before her death, she 
 was taken with inward bleeding, and hav- 
 ing frequent returns thereof, her strength 
 was soon so reduced as to confine her 
 mostly to her bed, a circumstance sufficient 
 to have alarmed a mind destitute of hea- 
 venly treasure ; but she appeared so settled 
 on the unshaken foundation, as to receive 
 with humble acquiescence any thing that 
 the great Author of her being saw meet to 
 dispense unto her ; which was evident, not 
 only from tne weighty and sensible ex- 
 
41 
 
 pressions that dropped from her lips, but the 
 composure of mind during the time of her 
 great weakness of body. She was far from 
 complaining of the Lord's dealing thus with 
 her; but on the contrary, was enabled 
 thankfully to commemorate his goodness, 
 care, and kindness to her, in being with 
 her, and preserving her all her life long. 
 The following are some of the expressions 
 that she uttered during the course of her 
 illness ; many others she expressed, but not 
 being taken down in writing, they cannot 
 now be recollected. On her first raising 
 blood, her mother being with her, seemed 
 much alarmed ; she calmly said, " Do not 
 be frightened, mother/' and afterwards ex- 
 pressed the composure she ft It at the time, 
 and that this alarming symptom was not 
 unexpected to her, and signified she thought 
 it might be in best wisdom if she should be 
 taken away in her youth, and removed 
 from the many temptations that are in the 
 world. Her mother asked her if she thought 
 she should recover ; she replied, " Oh, dear 
 mother, it is what I have not expected this 
 great while ; I desire, that both thou and 
 
42 
 
 I may be given up, and that I may go as 
 my dear sisters have gone, but I feel no 
 way anxious about it." 
 
 Notwithstanding her state of resignation, 
 she was tried with poverty of spirit, her 
 sense of which she expressed in these 
 words : " It often hath been, and is at this 
 season, a gloomy time with me; although 
 I hope and desire to have a full assurance 
 of reconciliation with the Father before I 
 go hence." 
 
 She would often speak of the necessity 
 of having our accounts prepared, and peace 
 made before we come upon a sick bed, and 
 that she found enough to do to bear her 
 bodily infirmities ; saying, (C I have seen 
 the necessity of such a preparation since I 
 have been laid on this bed of affliction : I 
 believe 1 have been as orderly as young 
 people in common : I have endeavoured 
 to be careful in my conversation and con- 
 duct ; I know not of any thing in my way, 
 yet I do not feel that quiet I long for/' 
 She one day thus expressed herself: " I 
 do not think that 1 have all this to bear on 
 my own account, but it may be for the 
 
43 
 
 good of some that may see me. If it is 
 right, a release would be very acceptable, 
 yet I sometimes fear that I am too anxious 
 for it ; 1 hope my patience will hold out to 
 the end." 
 
 At times, she mentioned, that her great- 
 est concern in bidding adieu to this world, 
 was the leaving her parents in their lonely 
 situation. To a near connexion and in- 
 timate, she thus expressed herself: " Thou 
 seest me a poor weak creature, it seems as 
 if my continuance here would be short, I 
 desire when I am gone, thou wouldest re- 
 member my dear mother, and be as a 
 daughter to her." Her friend being much 
 affected, and saying, " I shall greatly miss 
 thee," she replied, ' ' I believe thou wilt ; 
 we have loved each other well, but I hope 
 we shall soon meet again, for it is but a 
 little while the longest liver can stay." 
 When in health, she was exemplary in the 
 plainness and simplicity of her dress, and 
 during her sickness, expressed how little 
 worth while it was to be anxious about 
 dressing these bodies ; adding, " At such a 
 time as this, the very grasshopper is a bur- 
 
44 
 
 den." And to a physician that visited her, 
 she said; " Thou hast frequent opportu- 
 nities of seeing persons in my situation, 
 may est thou improve thereby, and not put 
 off thy day's work until such a time as this. 
 I find it enough for me to bear the affliction 
 of body, without the anxiety of having my 
 peace to make." 
 
 Being now very weak and low., she could 
 bear but little company,, and expressed a 
 desire that her patience might endure to 
 the end; and a ope that she might have an 
 easy passage. The day before her death, 
 she said; that thinking seriously last night 
 whether it might not be her last; it ran 
 through her mind; If it is SO; all will be 
 well. About the tenth hour; on First-day 
 evening, the family retired to bed; leaving 
 her aunt and cousin with her ; she soon 
 fell into a sweet sleep for about half an 
 hour; then awoke; and asked for something, 
 which was done for her ; she afterwards 
 lay in a gentle slumber for a while; and 
 then revived; but soon complained of be- 
 ing very hot; and desired more air ; more 
 was admitted into the room ; notwith^taud- 
 
45 
 
 ing which., she said there was a great heal 
 in her stomach, and desired to have the 
 windows and doors opened ; she then asked 
 her aunt, if there was not a change in her; 
 who replied, she thought there was ; and 
 a ked, if she would have her parents called; 
 she said, c< I believe it is best/' and im- 
 mediately after, raised herself in the bed., 
 lifted up her feeble hands, and although 
 previous to that time, she had been so 
 weak, that it was with difficulty she could 
 be understood ; she was now enabled to 
 raise her voice so as to be distinctly heard 
 in almost any of the different rooms in the 
 house, and in frequent acknowledgment 
 and thanksgiving, said nearly as follows : 
 <c Oh, Lord ! thy will and not mine be 
 done. I humbly acknowledge thy great 
 and merciful kindness, in being ne&r at 
 such a time as this ; " and so continued 
 rendering praises and thanks in many ex- 
 pressions, which cannot be remembered, 
 until her father and mother entered the 
 door, when she said, " My dear parents, 
 come in ; my dear mother, come and sit 
 down by me ; all be still, and mourn not ; 
 
46 
 
 for the time is now come, that I have a 
 full assurance of soon joining the heavenly 
 host." Her mother said, she had believed 
 that it would be so, before she departed. 
 She then said, " Oh, the love, the joy and 
 sweet peace that flows through my soul, 
 more than I have ever experienced be- 
 fore ;" feelingly mentioning these words of 
 Christ, " Peace I leave with you, my peace 
 I give unto you ; not as the world giveth, 
 give I unto you;" and much more that 
 cannot be recollected. She desired to be 
 remembered to some of her friends, naming 
 one of her cousins particularly, saying, 
 <e I wish him well from my very heart," 
 and gave her love to all her dear friends. 
 She then said, " Oh, Lord ! I acknowledge 
 thy great kindness in being near me all my 
 life long ; to thee I commit my body, soul 
 and spirit;" and then laid herself down, 
 but soon after asked for her little brother, 
 and said to him, " Farewell, dear Henry, 
 be a good boy, and I desire thou mayest 
 be a good man." Then sweetly and ten- 
 derly bidding all present, " Farewell, fare- 
 well," she removed the pillow from under 
 
47 
 
 her head, and in a few moments after, in 
 peace and quietude, breathed her last, a 
 little before the twelfth hour at night, on 
 the 14th of Sixth month, 1795, in the 
 twenty-second year of her age. 
 
 The following was found amongst her 
 papers. c Ninth month, ISth, 1793. Twen- 
 ty years end this day, since the day that 
 gave me birth ; may I ever be thankful to 
 that hand who gave me a being, and hath 
 hitherto showered unmerited blessings on 
 my life. Ninth month, 12th, 1794. This 
 being my birth-day, 1 have been reflecting, 
 how short the space of time seems since 
 12th of Ninth month, 1793; yet how many 
 within the small circle of my acquaintance, 
 are since numbered with the silent dead, 
 and removed to the house appointed for all 
 the living ; yea, some of the dearest com- 
 panions of my life have received the solemn 
 summons ; does not all this, in the loudest 
 language, bid me also prepare ? Eleventh 
 month, 16th, 1794. First-day evening, 
 without any other company except my dear 
 parents, with my eye on my book, but my 
 mind turned to look back and take a re- 
 
48 
 
 trospective view on the different situation 
 of our family but a little while back, when 
 I also had the agreeable company of two 
 dear sisters, who are now numbered with 
 the silent dead ; it was an inducement to 
 reflect, how uncertain all these lower en- 
 joyments are. May my mind, more than 
 it ever hath been, be fixed upon an object 
 lastingly durable, when all human comforts 
 and consolation will be unavailing. 
 
49 
 
 The Testimony of East Hoosack Monthly 
 Meeting, concerning Robert Nesbitt. 
 
 HE was born in Coulters haw, near Edin- 
 burgh, in Scotland, the 22d of Eighth 
 month, 1744, and carefully educated by his 
 parents among the Presbyterians. By hi3 
 own account, his understanding was at 
 times illuminated so as to discover divers 
 inconsistencies in the principles of his 
 teachers, but not duly attending to those 
 discoveries, and placing confidence in those 
 he esteemed his superiors, he did not at 
 that time witness the gracious purposes 
 intended by such visitations. 
 
 About the 22d year of his age, which 
 was soon after the decease of his father, he 
 left his native country, and came to Boston, 
 in New England, in the capacity of a ser- 
 vant ; from thence he went to Nova Scotia, 
 where he continued some time ; being di - 
 charged by his master, about the 27th 
 year of his age, he came to this place, and 
 settled ; he oiten expressed his admiration 
 of the kindness of divine Providence, in 
 
 c 
 
50 
 
 preserving him from the gross vices of 
 those among whom he lived ; and also, 
 that the care of his parents in his educa- 
 tion was a benefit to him. He manifested 
 himself to be a zealous young man, and 
 strongly attached to the principles of his 
 education, but living among Friends, and 
 having an opportunity of perusing some 
 of their writings, he became acquainted 
 with their principles, and was much affect- 
 ed with the account of their patient suffer- 
 ings in times of persecution, which induced 
 him to attend some of our meetings for 
 worship, and by yielding to the precious 
 visitations of divine grace in his mind, he 
 became convinced of the Truth, as pro- 
 fessed by us, and was received a member 
 of our religious Society, and by a steady 
 attention to the dictates thereof, he expe- 
 rienced a growth in grace, and received a 
 gift in the ministry, and became qualified 
 to labour in the Church. Om the establish- 
 ment of a Monthly Meeting in these parts, 
 he evidenced a careful attention and con- 
 cern for the support of our Christian disci- 
 pline, and although his outward circum- 
 
51 
 
 stances were small, yet he seldom missed 
 attending the Quarterly and Monthly meet- 
 ings of which he was a member, notwith- 
 standing most of them were held at a con- 
 siderable distance from his habitation. The 
 latter end of the year 1782, with the con- 
 currence of the Monthly Meeting, he en- 
 tered on a religious visit to Friends in New 
 England, and travelled on foot nearly as 
 far eastward as any Friends were settled ; 
 and on his return, produced very satisfac- 
 tory accounts of the unity of Friends with 
 his services. 
 
 Having passed through many humiliating 
 trials, his mind was much weaned from the 
 wisdom and pursuits of the world, and he 
 often earnestly exhorted his friends and 
 others to beware of covetousness and those 
 aspiring inclinations, which prevent a 
 growth in the Truth, and disqualify for re- 
 ligious services. He was a good example 
 of patience and contentment, in his low 
 situation in the world. In his public mini- 
 stry, he was often led to treat of the excel- 
 lency of the gospel dispensation of love 
 ami peace, with clearness and pertinency., 
 cS 
 
52 
 
 in the authority of Truth, and was a deeply 
 exercised labourer in the concerns of So- 
 ciety, and the support of our Christian 
 discipline. He manifested much concern 
 and sympathy with persons in affliction, 
 either of body or mind, and we believe his 
 visits to them were often useful. From the 
 time of his early exercises among us, he 
 was much affected with the distressed situ- 
 ation of that part of the African race held 
 in slavery ; and refrained from the use of 
 articles furnished by their labour ; and en- 
 deavoured to prevail on his friends to avoid 
 contributing* to the oppression of that peo- 
 ple. In the year 1791, he attended the 
 Yearly Meeting in Philadelphia, and di- 
 vers other meetings in Pennsylvania and 
 New Jersey; and by accounts received 
 from thence, we find, that in this visit, he 
 had extensive service, especially in Phila- 
 delphia. 
 
 He was taken sick the latter part of the 
 Seventh month, 1795, and endured a pain- 
 ful illness, which continued about eleven 
 weeks ; in the course of which, he was at 
 times much tried with poverty of spirit, 
 
53 
 
 yet his mind appeared to be supported 
 above the fear of death, and he desired his 
 wife and children to give him up freely. 
 He uttered divers weighty expressions ; 
 some of which being preserved, are in sub- 
 stance as follows, viz. Speaking of his 
 pains, he said, ee I believe I have not one 
 to spare, they are so necessary to wean my 
 affections from things below ; for although 
 I have lived much loose from the world, 
 yet had I to live my time over again, I 
 believe I should live more so." The dis- 
 tressed situation of the African race in 
 slavery, much accompanied his mind ; often 
 crying out, " O, the poor negroes! the 
 poor negroes ' " He often mentioned his 
 thankfulness, for the very kind attention 
 of his friends and neighbours, in the time 
 of trial. One meeting-day, a friend and 
 his wife made him a visit, he said, i( I be- 
 lieve we may have a meeting here/' and 
 desired his family and others present, to 
 sit dosvn ; after a considerable time of si- 
 lence, he desired to be raised up, and though 
 in the time of stillness he was very faint, he 
 now seemed to be relieved, and said, (C Not- 
 c 3 
 
54 
 
 withstanding' this my outward man is very 
 low r , my inward man is strong ; yea, it is as 
 strong as ever : the love of the gospel that 
 I feel is as strong as ever ; not only to 
 those here and hereaway, but the love of 
 the gospel that I feel reacheth over sea and 
 land. I believe the Lord, who has been 
 my support through my sickness so far, 
 will be a father to the fatherless, and a hus- 
 band to my poor widow, as their trust is 
 in him." At several times, he communi- 
 cated weighty advice to his children, and 
 desired, that when the time of his depar- 
 ture came, they would sit down and wait 
 upon the Lord, who giveth life, and taketh 
 it away. He desired his eldest son, not to 
 en^aoe himself in the affairs of <j;overn- 
 mont ; expressing his belief, that he him- 
 self had been rightly withheld from taking 
 an active part therein, and was now thank- 
 ful for it. In the beginning of the evening 
 in which he departed this life, being asked 
 if he was sensible that he was going, he 
 answered, (C Yes ; and 1 am glad of it/' 
 He was confident that the time of his de- 
 parture grew very near ; expressed his 
 
55 
 
 thankfulness, that the hiccoughs had left 
 him, which he had desired to be relieved 
 from ; and requested his family and others 
 to be still: being* offered something to take, 
 he again desired them to be still ; saying, 
 " Enough has been done for my body : " 
 after some time, his friends being desirous 
 to do what they could for him, he replied,, 
 " You may lay me as I shall lie when I am 
 laid out/' which were nearly his last words; 
 after which, he lay very still to the last, 
 and breathed apparently easy. He departed 
 this life very quietly, about the ninth hour 
 in the evening of the 16th of the Tenth 
 month, 1795, aged 51 years, and a minister 
 about 18 years. 
 
 c 4 
 
56 
 
 A Memorial from the Creek Monthly Meet- 
 ing, in Nine-partners 3 concerning our 
 friend Tiddeman Hull. 
 
 HE was bom in the State of Rhode 
 Island. His parents were John and Da- 
 mams Hull, who were members of our reli- 
 gious society ; and in the early part of his 
 life, by their consent, he removed and set- 
 tled within the verge of Purchase Monthly 
 Meeting ; where, and at New York, he 
 resided until the year 1777, when he re- 
 moved with his family within the limits of 
 this meeting, then a part of Nine-partners 
 Monthly Meeting, and became a useful 
 member thereof, being exemplary hi the 
 diligent attendance of our religious meet- 
 ings, and encouraging his family therein. 
 In the year 1781., he appeared in the mini- 
 stry, and was serviceable therein ; the 
 young and rising generation particularly 
 claimed his attention ; unto many of whom 
 he was endeared by his tender and fatherly 
 advice. He often pressingly entreated those 
 unto whom he ministered, to close ia with 
 
57 
 
 the day of their visitation ; and sometimes 
 in private conversation was heard to say, 
 that he had nothing more to regret, than 
 that he did not in his youthful days give 
 up to walk in the paths of piety and virtue. 
 He was divers times acceptably engaged in 
 visiting families within the compass of this 
 Monthly Meeting, a service he appeared to 
 be well qualified for ; and frequently visited 
 the adjacent meetings, particularly those 
 newly set up. He often not only advised 
 it, but was himself in the practice of re- 
 tiring in stillness ; and at times convened 
 his family upon the same important occa- 
 sion. 
 
 In the year 1793, soon after his return 
 from a religions visit in the western settle- 
 ments of this State, he was brought very 
 low by a fit of sickness, his life not being 
 expected, either by himself or his friends, 
 to be prolonged ; at which time, his faith 
 appeared unshaken ; saying, f ' My confi- 
 dence is in the Lord, and in him will I 
 trust : I feel his presence to be near, which 
 is above all, and can rejoice in tribulation." 
 At another time, his children being by his 
 
58 
 
 bed-side, he, looking upon them, said, " If 
 it is the Lord's will that I shall go now ; I 
 am entirely willing* ; " soon after, with an 
 audible voice, lc Oh, Lord ! be graciously 
 pleased to take me to thyself, or endue me 
 with patience to bear my pains ; yet not 
 my will but thine be done: try me any 
 way that will be most agreeable to thy holy 
 will." 
 
 The same day, divers friends coming to 
 see him, he said, " This is a hard struggle 
 between life and death; I do not know 
 which will have the victory ; but, let which 
 will, I believe I shall be the Lord's ;" with 
 much instructive advice and counsel to 
 many that came to see him during his ill- 
 ness : from this sickness he gradually re- 
 covered. 
 
 He was taken ill of his last sickness, the 
 18th of the Ninth month, whilst sitting in 
 our Monthly Meeting ; in which, he mani- 
 fested the same fervency of spirit in his 
 religious labours that had hitherto accom- 
 panied them. In the evening, he signified 
 to some of his family, he believed that was 
 the last meeting he should attend. His 
 
59 
 
 disorder proving to be the dysentery, his 
 strength failed fast. On Fourth-day morn- 
 ing following, after a wearisome night, he 
 expressed a desire for stillness, and an easy 
 passage, as he believed his time here would 
 not be lomr. Soon after, bein«r more free 
 from pain, divers friends being present, he 
 said, that at the last Monthly Meeting he 
 attended, he thought at the time it would 
 be the last ; and that he felt his mind im- 
 pressed with something to deliver, but did 
 not, for the want of an opportunity ; which 
 was, that Friends in all appointments in 
 the church, be careful not to appoint such 
 as were in the practice of sleeping in meet- 
 ings, referring to the frequent advice of 
 the Yearly Meeting on that subject. Then 
 addressing himself to his youngest son, he 
 gave him much instructive counsel and 
 advice. After which, laying still awhile, 
 he was fervently engaged in prayer, that 
 the Lord would be graciously pleased to 
 be near in this trying time, and that he 
 would remember Friends of the little meet- 
 ing to which he belonged, that the extend- 
 ing^ of divine regard might be to his family, 
 cG 
 
60 
 
 and that they with Friends might be kept 
 as in the hollow of the Lord's hand. After 
 which, his disorder being very sore upon 
 him, he expressed but little; though, at 
 times, he was engaged in prayer, and in 
 the expression of a few words of love and 
 tenderness to such as came to see him, 
 bearing his pains with Christian patience, 
 waiting for the time to come, that he might 
 be relieved from them. He departed this 
 life, on the 28th of the Ninth month, 1795, 
 aged about 62 years. 
 
61 
 
 A Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of 
 Westbury, concerning Rachael Willets, 
 late the wife of Joseph Willets. 
 
 SHE was born at Westbury, on Long 
 Island, in the year 1742, and received her 
 education among Friends. In early life, 
 she was favoured with the precious visita- 
 tions of divine love ; whereby, she was in 
 good measure preserved from the follies 
 and vanities incident to youth. Some time 
 after her first marriage, which was to Silas 
 Hicks, she became more closely engaged 
 for her soul's peace, and through submis- 
 sion to the operation of that power which 
 had graciously visited her, she became not 
 only an example of piety, but received a 
 gift in the ministry ; which, though not 
 extensive, was acceptable and edifying. 
 She was a good example of plainness, sim- 
 plicity, and innocency in life and conver- 
 sation ; and was often concerned to en- 
 courage the practice of retirement and wait- 
 ing upon the Lord in families, being herself 
 
62 
 
 a good example therein. Some years be- 
 fore her decease, being' afflicted with a dis- 
 order which reduced her low, she at times 
 underwent much pain and distress of body. 
 She was preserved in patience and resigna- 
 tion, appearing in a peaceful frame, and 
 signifying how hard it would have been if 
 she had her work then to do. She was 
 much relieved from this disorder, yet con- 
 tinued weakly, and at length settled into a 
 gradual decline ; during which time, she 
 appeared in a sweet and resigned frame., 
 filled with love to mankind at large. To- 
 wards her close, she was frequently engaged 
 in prayer and praises to the Lord ; who, 
 she said, had been with her from her youth, 
 and had been her support in all trials to 
 that day ; and was enlarged in counsel and 
 advice to those who came to see her ; pres- 
 sing upon them to do their days work in 
 the day time, that they might be prepared 
 for such an awful season ; and not put off 
 that great and necessary work until a sick 
 bed or dying hour. Some of her expressi- 
 ons being preserved,, are in substance as 
 follows : 
 
63 
 
 When some friends were with her, after 
 sitting awhile in silence, she said, she felt 
 the presence of the Lord to be with her in 
 that trying time, which was comfortable be- 
 yond what words could express ; saying, it 
 was a great comfort to have something to 
 bear up in times of trial, and that she felt 
 entirely easy, having a satisfactory assu- 
 rance of a happy change, and that she did 
 not speak it boastingly, but with a thankful 
 heart. 
 
 At another time, a friend being with her, 
 after a time of silence, wherein she seemed 
 much affected and tendered by the power 
 of Truth, she said, " It is a great help when 
 we can mutually feel that love which flows 
 as a river;" and added, c< the Lord is 
 strength in weakness, riches in poverty, and 
 a present help in every time of need : let us 
 look to him." At another time, she said, 
 she felt nothing to trouble her, nor any thing 
 then to do, but to wait upon and praise the 
 Lord ; saying, cc Praises and thanksgiving 
 be given to his holy name for evermore." 
 
 Having in the course of her life, mani- 
 fested great concern for her children, she 
 
64 
 
 divers times in her illness expressed her 
 desire that they might not suffer their minds 
 to be captivated with the pleasures and 
 profits of tliis world, but that they might 
 choose the Lord for their portion, and serve 
 him faithfully, and thereby make their cal- 
 ling" and election sure ; and having done 
 their day's work, might feel the satisfaction 
 she then did, and be enabled to lay down 
 their heads in peace. 
 
 At another time, speaking to a friend who 
 came to see her, she said, she had a few 
 words of encouragement for him ; that he 
 had begun a good work, and desired he 
 might be faithful ; saying, " There is much 
 need of labourers, for too many have settled 
 down at ease ; " and that he might be en- 
 abled to help bear the ark of the covenant 
 upon his shoulders, and journey forward, 
 when those that now bear it are removed 
 from works to rewards. A friend taking- 
 leave of her, she said, she hoped her time 
 here would be short ; that she was ready 
 and willing to go ; and soon broke forth in 
 prayer and praises to the Lord, who, she 
 said, had been with her all her life long, 
 
65 
 
 and had not left her now,, who is worthy to 
 be waited on and praised for ever. A few 
 hours before her departure, she prayed that 
 the Lord would be with her in her most 
 trying moments, and support her as in the 
 hollow of his hand ; and soon after, quietly 
 departed, like one falling asleep, on the 
 20th of Seventh month, 1797, aged 55 years, 
 and we have no doubt is entered into the 
 rest prepared for the righteous. 
 
66 
 
 A Tesiimoiuj of the Monthly Meeting of New 
 York, concerning Joseph Delaplaine. 
 
 PROM a feeling- sense of the loss the 
 church hath sustained, and we in an especial 
 manner, who have ofttimes been edified by 
 his ministry and pious example ; we are 
 desirous of preserving* some account of his 
 life and religious services ; more especially, 
 as the lively and instructive remarks made 
 about the closing period of his time, may 
 not only prove profitable to us of the pre- 
 sent, but also to succeeding generations. 
 Although he travelled but little, he labour- 
 ed much, in word and doctrine, and was 
 often eminently favoured in the exercise of 
 his ministerial gift, evidencing the autho- 
 rity with which his communications were 
 accompanied, and that his mind was fer- 
 vently devoted to promote the cause of 
 righteousness on earth. 
 
 It appears, that he was born in the city 
 of New York, in the year 1725, of religious 
 parents, Joshua and Esther Delaplaine, 
 whose memory is also precious ; the former 
 
67 
 
 having for many years filled the station of 
 an elder in the church, with much useful- 
 ness, and we have reason to believe endea- 
 voured to train up his son, both by example 
 and precept, in the nurture and admonition 
 of the Lord ; but being of a volatile dis- 
 position, and attracted by the alluring and 
 seducing pleasures of this world, he devi- 
 ated from the purity and simplicity of the 
 gospel ; although he did not long pursue 
 the paths of vanity and folly, before he was 
 graciously met with, and awakened to a 
 sense of his dangerous situation, and of the 
 necessity of a change ; and in humility 
 submitting thereto, he became prepared for 
 further manifestations of the divine will, 
 and received a gift in the ministry about 
 the 25th year of his age. 
 
 He was a man of a strong mind, and 
 being early made acquainted with the di- 
 vine principle, operating upon his heart, 
 was led to embrace a life of great self-de- 
 nial and abstractedness from the world, and 
 being forcibly impressed with the conviction 
 of the danger and evils attendant on the 
 pursuit of wealth and worldly aggrandize- 
 
6S 
 
 merit, he not only carefully avoided (he 
 means which led thereto, but supported a 
 testimony for the purity and simplicity of 
 the gospel, and was often led to mourn on 
 account of the degeneracy of many of the 
 professed followers of Christ in these re- 
 spects. 
 
 He was a charitable and sympathizing 
 friend to the poor and afflicted, and distin- 
 guished for his alms and benevolent offices 
 towards those of this description. 
 
 For some years before his decease, he 
 grew feeble and infirm, yet he retained his 
 faith and love to the last, and continued to 
 labour both in the ministry and in the dis- 
 cipline of the Church. His last illness was 
 attended with much bodily conflict, but his 
 mind was mercifully borne up above it all, 
 as is evident from the sentiments he ex- 
 pressed, some of which being preserved, are 
 as follows : 
 
 Fifth month, 17th, 1799 — " I expect my 
 peace is made ; 1 am only waiting to enter 
 into rest;" and after a little pause, he said 
 to several of his friends present, " Love 
 silent meetings : silence was the ground 
 
69 
 
 upon which our predecessors first moved, 
 in order to worship God. A slavish fear 
 has sometimes presented itself to my mind, 
 lest the flock should sustain a loss through 
 the lack of vocal instruments ; but as I 
 have dwelt in pure resignation to the di- 
 vine will, great has been my peace. Let 
 life be the spring of all your movements 
 in the Church : generally speaking, it hath 
 been my concern to wait for it to put me 
 forth in the service thereof/' His bodily 
 pain being great, he acknowledged the 
 Lord's wisdom therein, and expressed his 
 resignation ; several times saying, he was 
 ready and willing to leave this world, wait- 
 ing the Lord's time, that he might join the 
 heavenly host in adoration, praise, and 
 thanksgiving. At another time, being ini 
 great pain, he said, Cl Oh ! the wisdom of 
 the Creator : not only his judgments, but 
 his ways are past finding out." 
 
 26th. Being recovered from fainting, he 
 said, (C In all these extremities of pain and 
 of fainting fits, the power of divine love is 
 over all." 
 
 27th. This evening, he earnestly desired 
 
70 
 
 his son to seek the Lord whilst he was to 
 be found, mentioning the great concern he 
 had often felt for his well being, and that 
 he felt peace in the discharge of his duty 
 towards him in times past ; that many had 
 slighted divine visitations to their souls ; 
 and the great danger there was in putting 
 off the necessary preparation for death until 
 a time of sickness : and then said, c ' Wait, 
 Oh ! my soul, in patience, the Lord's time ;" 
 at another time, cc A little longer — the end 
 of all things is at hand, and I am endea- 
 vouring to fix mine eye upon the object 
 of the saint's faith/' 
 
 30th. " You see the distress I am in," 
 it was answered, yes, and we feel for thee, 
 and cannot help thee, he replied, <c the true 
 spirit of sympathy is internal, it is seen but 
 little, and felt much." 
 
 31st. To a Friend : " The Lord is gra- 
 cious, his promises are yea and amen for 
 ever." 
 
 Sixth month, 1st. Something being pro- 
 posed by way of medicine, he mentioned 
 the improbability of being able to endure 
 the operation, saying, ,c I would rather pass 
 
71 
 
 quietly away, but if you (meaning his fa- 
 mily) cannot be easy without trying", I am 
 willing- to submit. 1 ' To a friend who visit- 
 ed him, he said, ec My mind enjoys much 
 sweetness, but my body is in great distress 
 « — I should have been glad to have been 
 with you at the late annual Meeting, but it 
 has been ordered otherwise in the wisdom 
 of God, to whom be all praise • his mercy 
 endureth for ever." 
 
 4th. To his son and son-in-law : (i We 
 slip away sometimes very suddenly; and if 
 it should be so with me, tell a friend (whom 
 he named) to make for me a plain, decent, 
 pine coffin;" after a little pause, he said 
 earnestly, " Do you understand me?" he 
 was answered, ves. 
 
 6th. He broke forth in prayer in the fol- 
 lowing manner : tc If it be consistent with 
 thy will, Oh ! God of all grace, mercy, and 
 love, put an end to this distress:" what 
 followed could not be understood, his voice, 
 through his great weakness, being very low, 
 Afterwards, he spoke intelligibly, (( Am I 
 not going the way of all flesh?" It was an- 
 swered, it appears so ; he then said, " Lord, 
 
72 
 
 hasten the time;" and after a pause, thus: 
 " Surely I am the clay and he the potter ; 
 our Lord and Master assigns no more than 
 he abilitates to bear ; his ways are all in 
 wisdom. " At another time, addressing him- 
 self to a person he had sent for, he said, 
 " I sent for thee to take leave of thee once 
 more ; perhaps this may be the last, though 
 the hour is hid from me, but the Lord's 
 time is the best time. I only wait his com- 
 ing. I desire and am favoured in a good 
 degree to possess my soul in patience. Oh, 
 how the love of God has flowed in my heart 
 towards some young in years, compared 
 with myself, and the breathing of my soul 
 has been for them, that they may keep in 
 the simplicity, not suffering the example of 
 others to cause them to stumble at the cross 
 of Christ, for a dreadful day will come upon 
 all the careless, and those who in their con- 
 duct deny him before men." At another 
 time, he remarked, (i I have had a testi- 
 mony to bear against little things, (as many 
 cali them,) I have been faithful thereto, and 
 1 feel peace, substantial peace." 
 
73 
 
 In concluding this narrative of the life 
 and end of this our beloved friend, how 
 forcible are the expressions of the royal 
 Psalmist ! " The salvation of the righteous 
 is of the Lord, he is their strength in the 
 time of trouble." 
 
 He departed this life, the 12th of Sixth 
 month, 1799, in the 74th year of his age, 
 and the 49th of his ministry. 
 
74 
 
 The Testimony of the Month!?/ Meeting of 
 Jericho , concerning Mary Willis. 
 
 IT is an encouraging" evidence of the suf- 
 ficiency of the grace of our Lord Jesus 
 Christ, that those who abide under its bles- 
 sed influence, are thereby enabled to bear 
 with Christian fortitude the varied trials and 
 afflictions incident to this probationary state. 
 This was exemplified in the life of our an- 
 cient and worthy friend. 
 
 It appears that her parents, John and 
 Mary Fry, were removed by death when 
 she was about two years of age, and that 
 she was piously inclined from her child- 
 hood, and early regarding the visitations 
 of Divine Love, was brought into contri- 
 tion and humility, and witnessed her mind 
 prepared for the more full reception of the 
 Truth, in the love of it ; and she said that 
 it had been to her a pearl of great price. 
 
 She entered into the marriage state with 
 our well esteemed friend Samuel Willis, to 
 whom she was a true helpmate, and tender, 
 sympathizing companion, in temporal and 
 spiritual concerns. 
 
75 
 
 She was blessed with a large family of 
 children, and endued with soundness of 
 judgment and discretion in their manage- 
 ment and instruction ; appearing to live 
 under a daily concern to bring them up in 
 the nurture and admonition of the Lord, 
 clearly manifesting, that she had no greater 
 joy than to see her children walking in the 
 Truth : and her care, through divine aid, 
 we believe has been a blessing to them, 
 and is remembered with gratitude. She 
 was of a modest countenance and solid de- 
 portment ; of a mild and affable disposition, 
 and her discreet conduct commanded re- 
 spect and ready obedience from her chil- 
 dren and those under her care, and tended 
 to promote love and harmony in the family, 
 She manifested a steady concern for the pro- 
 motion of the cause of righteousness, being 
 a good example in the attendance of re- 
 ligious meetings, of a reverent and tender 
 spirit, waiting in humility on the Lord. 
 She was concerned for the preservation of 
 good order, and very useful in managing 
 the concerns of society, being indeed a 
 mother in Israel, 
 
 d2 
 
76 
 
 When by age and infirmity she was pre- 
 vented from attending meetings, she mani- 
 fested that her zeal and concern were not 
 abated ; being often engaged to encourage 
 others to that important duty : and many 
 times expressed , that her love to her friends 
 and the cause of Truth continued, greatly 
 desiring its prosperity, and that the youth 
 in a particular manner, by obedience to the 
 operation of Divine Grace, might be pre- 
 pared for usefulness in their generation. 
 She was charitable to the poor, and a sym- 
 pathizing friend to the afflicted. 
 
 The three last years of her life, she was 
 mostly confined at home, through bodily 
 weakness, during which time, she was fa- 
 voured with patience and resignation, which, 
 with her innocent and meek deportment, 
 ministered instruction, and her memory is 
 precious. 
 
 Towards the close of life, her mind ap- 
 peared to be more and more gathered into 
 the heavenly inclosure ; often expressing 
 her readiness and desire to quit this earthly 
 tabernacle ; saying, her day's work was 
 done, and that she knew not why she was 
 
77 
 
 continued after she was incapable, through 
 infirmity and old age, of being any longer 
 useful : nevertheless, she said, she was re- 
 signed to the Divine disposal, being willing 
 to wait the Lord's time. Her illness was 
 short, and she appeared to be sensible pre- 
 vious thereto, that her end was near, and 
 when the time came, appearing to have 
 nothing to do but to die, she departed in 
 much quietude and stillness, being at peace 
 with all, and we have no doubt is entered 
 into the mansions of eternal blessedness. 
 
 She departed this life at Jericho, the 28th 
 of 5th month, 1800, in the 88th year of her 
 age, and her remains were attended to the 
 grave by her friends and neighbours, her 
 children and their descendents, of four ge- 
 nerations. 
 
 d3 
 
78 
 
 A Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of 
 Jericho, concerning John Whiston. 
 
 HE was born the 22d of the 12th month, 
 1717-18, in the compass of Bethpage Par- 
 ticular Meeting, and was educated in the 
 principles of Truth, as professed by us, and 
 early manifested his love thereto, being of 
 an orderly life and conversation, and reli- 
 giously inclined from his tender years, as 
 appears by accounts received from those 
 who were his intimates from his youth. By 
 the seasoning influence of grace, as h£ grew 
 in years he grew in experience, and became 
 a good example in the church, being a 
 man of a meek and quiet spirit, and was 
 appointed in pretty early life to the station 
 of an Elder. Although he was seldom ac- 
 tive in meetings for discipline, yet his soli- 
 dity of countenance, and weightiness of 
 spirit in religious meetings, together with 
 his diligent attendance, and general conduct 
 through life, rendered his example useful 
 and instructive. He was frequent in pri- 
 vate retirement, and often called his family 
 together to wait on the Lord. 
 
79 
 
 He was a good neighbour, an affection- 
 ate husband, and a tender father ; careful 
 in the education of his children, and ap- 
 peared to be above all things desirous to 
 see them walking in the Truth. In his 
 advanced age, particularly the two last 
 years of his life, he was mostly confined at 
 home with an asthmatic complaint, and 
 other bodily infirmities, which he bore with 
 patience, his countenance and deportment 
 bespeaking great iniiocency and quiet re- 
 signation to the divine will. Some of his 
 expressions in his last illness, as they de- 
 note the situation of his mind, are annexed. 
 
 At several times he expressed, that did 
 he not feel an inward support, he could not 
 quietly bear up under his great bodily af- 
 fliction. At another time he said, unless 
 there should be an alteration, he could not 
 continue long : and then said, that he who 
 had mercy upon the thief on the cross, he 
 hoped would receive him, although he felt 
 himself unworthy. At another time he 
 eaid, he had a lingering disorder, but hoped 
 he should pass through it with a quiet mind, 
 and divers times mentioned the love he had 
 d 4 
 
80 
 
 for Friends, and desire for their advance- 
 ment in the Truth. Being visited by some 
 friends, he expressed the satisfaction it was 
 to have their company ; but added, ce to 
 have that peace that Christ gives to his 
 followers, is to be preferred to any thing in 
 this world : " and further said, " There 
 formerly were many wars outwardly, so 
 there are many now inwardly ; but if we 
 keep on our watch, we shall have strength 
 given to overcome the enemy of our souls/' 
 After having rested better for some time 
 than usual, he expressed much thankfulness 
 therefor, saying, <c It ail comes from the 
 great Giver of all good, both temporal and' 
 spiritual/' One evening, being in great 
 bodily distress, he said, " It is hard work/' 
 but hoped he should quietly submit to all, 
 ff for it is no matter what we pass through 
 here, if we do but enter the promised land; 
 where the humble, contrite ones are re- 
 ceived ; but if we have not a truly humble 
 mind, we shall never enter into the man- 
 sions of rest prepared for the righteous/' 
 At another time he said, " I have much de- 
 sired to know the spirit of true prayer, for 
 
81 
 
 it is that only that will be acceptable in 
 the divine sight. Oh, how good it is to be 
 little in our own eyes, that our Maker may 
 be our all in all! " 
 
 He continued in this humble, resigned 
 state, and in clearness of understanding, 
 until the evening before he departed, when, 
 for a short time, he appeared a little lost, 
 but soon recovered himself again, and ex- 
 pressed the great desire he had for the 
 welfare of his grand-children, receiving his 
 last supper at the hands of one of them, 
 with a pleasant countenance. And as he 
 lived in peace and unity with his friends, 
 and in good will to mankind in general, so 
 we believe he died in the same, departing 
 this life, the 3d of Second month, 1804, 
 aged nearly 86 years, and we doubt not 
 but the testimony which the apostle was 
 commanded to write, Rev. xiv. 13, will ap- 
 ply to him : ee Blessed are the dead, which 
 die in the Lord, from henceforth ; yea, saith 
 the Spirit, that they may rest from their 
 labours, and their works do follow them." 
 
 d5 
 
82 
 
 A Testimony of Thomas Willis, concerning 
 his late zvife, Phebe Willis. 
 
 Inasmuch as it hath pleased the Almighty 
 to remove by death my beloved wife, Phebe 
 Willis, I feel my mind engaged to give the 
 following testimony concerning her. She 
 was born in the village of Searingtown, in 
 the township of Hempstead, on Long Island, 
 the 6th of the First month, 1773, of religi- 
 ons parents, John and Mary Searing, who 
 educated her in the principles of Truth 
 professed by Friends, of whose parental 
 and religious care I have heard her speak 
 with gratitude : and by the divine blessing 
 thereon, she was in good measure preser- 
 ved in innocence in her tender years ; and 
 through the visitations of divine love, and 
 an early attention thereto, she was enabled 
 to walk in a good degree of obedience to 
 its discoveries, whereby she witnessed the 
 incomes of peace and consolation. She 
 continued in this state while she stood in 
 obedience to the light and knowledge ma- 
 nifested : but as she grew in years, becom- 
 ing somewhat inclined to youthful vanity, 
 
83 
 
 she lost that precious communion with her 
 Maker which she had before experienced : 
 but about the 18th year of her age, the 
 visitations of divine love were so renewed 
 as to make her sensible of her spiritual 
 condition, under which, she became deeply 
 humbled, and brought into a state of con- 
 trition. 
 
 She was now en«a«*ed often to retire 
 alone, to wait upon the Lord, and strew 
 her tears in secret before him, imploring 
 mercy at his hand ; and in this profitable 
 state of waiting upon God, she was pre- 
 pared for the more full reception of the 
 Truth, in the love of it ; and the Lord was 
 pleased to favour her with further manifes- 
 tations of his will ; and by faithfulness there- 
 unto, she witnessed a growth in the Truth ; 
 and being, in divine wisdom and mercy, 
 led through many deep and humbling bap- 
 tisms of spirit, she became measurably 
 weaned from the love of the perishing en- 
 j >yments of this life ; and in proportion 
 thereto, her love was increased, and desires 
 strengthened for that treasure which fadeth 
 not away. 
 
 d6 
 
84 
 
 About this time, we were united in the 
 marriage covenant, and were favoured with 
 a comfortable evidence of divine approba- 
 tion therein. Her sense of the solemnity 
 of the undertaking, I find amongst her pa- 
 pers, thus expressed : "■ My mind hath been 
 humbled this day, under a sense of the 
 renewed extension of divine regard, mar- 
 vellously manifested at this time ; my spirit 
 hath been bowed, and all within me hum- 
 bled ; and this language raised in me : 
 What shall I render to my God, for all his 
 benefits. Oh, may I become more like a 
 vessel cleansed and purified from the dross 
 and tin of this polluted world." 
 
 She was of a modest countenance, and 
 solid deportment ; cheerful in her manners, 
 but careful not to exceed the bounds of 
 Truth, which rendered her example in- 
 structive and inviting. 
 
 When under bodily infirmity, of which 
 she had a large share, she was favoured 
 with patience and resignation, being evi- 
 dently supported in a belief, that as she 
 submitted to the turning of the divine hand 
 in every trying dispensation, all would 
 
85 
 
 work together for good. At one of these 
 seasons, she was reduced so low, that for 
 several months she was generally unable 
 to speak audibly, and when, according to 
 outward appearance, not likely to con- 
 tinue long, being one evening raised up in 
 bed, after a little quiet, she, with a raised 
 voice, uttered these words: <c Glory, might, 
 and majesty, are with thee, dearest Fa- 
 ther ;" and presently added, " Behold, I 
 stand as at the brink of the grave, and 
 wait thy salvation :" and after a time of 
 solemn silence, the family at her request 
 all sitting around, she broke forth in sup- 
 plication thus : iC Most holy Father, if it 
 be thy will, raise up judges as at the first, 
 and counsellors as at the beginning, and 
 make thy vineyard fruitful, saith my soul M 
 Being asked, if she had apprehensions of 
 her time being short, she said, " I have not 
 apprehended it to be so ; the Lord hath 
 said unto me, Thou needest not a physi- 
 cian, I will heal thee myself, and my words 
 will I give unto thee : glory, honour, and 
 praise, be ascribed unto him, saith my 
 feeble soul/' A day or two after, having 
 
86 
 
 dropped some expressions in commemo- 
 ration of the love and goodness of the Al- 
 mighty to her, she added, " The Lord hath 
 said unto me, thou shalt live and not die, 
 with this injunction, keep thou my com- 
 mand/' 
 
 Having' been deeply plunged into suf- 
 fering', both inwardly and outwardly, iu 
 this sickness, she was now favoured with 
 the incomes of divine love, to her comfort 
 and consolation ; and from the fulness of 
 this enjoyment, was enabled at times to 
 tell unto others, with an audible voice, 
 what the Lord had done for her; and often 
 administered caution and advice suitable 
 to the states of such as visited her; and 
 the lano'uai>'e of invitation and encourage- 
 merit to those in early life, flowed through 
 her, as she sometimes expressed, like a 
 stream of love She was loving and du- 
 tiful to her parents, tenderly affectionate 
 to her brothers and sisters, watching over 
 them, and admonishing* as she found oc- 
 casion ; a faithful and loving' wife, and a 
 true help -meet to me : her watchful care 
 and concern for my preservation, with the 
 
87 
 
 sweetness and sincere affection which ac- 
 companied her admonitions, as well as her 
 gentle reproofs, when necessary, remain 
 impressive on my mind. She was a sym- 
 pathizing' friend with the afflicted, in visit- 
 ing whom, she often administered a word 
 of exhortation or consolation ; diligent in 
 the attendance of religious meetings, and 
 when there, her reverent manner of sitting 
 was exemplary and instructive. She at 
 times appeared in the ministry in meet- 
 ings, and also often in families, I believe 
 to the satisfaction, comfort, and edification 
 of her friends ; and I have no doubt her 
 memory is precious to many of them ; par- 
 ticularly to some contemporaries of her 
 own sex, for whose welfare she appeared 
 to be deeply engaged. 
 
 A short time before her last illness, we 
 visited her father and two of her sisters ; 
 and on parting with them, her mind was 
 seriously impressed ; and in an opportunity 
 of quiet sitting, she remarked their being 
 once more together, reminding them of 
 the uncertainty of their meeting again in 
 mutability ; and that the main point was, 
 
88 
 
 to endeavour so to live as to be prepared 
 to meet again in endless bliss, when time 
 here should be no more ; and further added, 
 that she hoped we should be preserved 
 from murmuring or repining at the dispen- 
 sations of Providence, however trying they 
 might be. We returned home, and the 
 evening following she was taken ill with 
 the sickness which, in less than a week, 
 terminated her existence in the body. 
 
 As it had been her daily concern, to live 
 in the state of preparation which she had 
 so lately recommended, she was not alarm- 
 ed at the approach of death. The disorder 
 in its latter stage became very powerful, 
 and at times deprived her of reason and 
 speech ; yet at intervals she was favoured 
 with them, when she appeared clearly sen- 
 sible of her approaching dissolution, and 
 her mind was covered with an awful sense 
 of its solemnity. Two of her sisters com- 
 ing to see her, on the fifth day of her ill- 
 ness, she appeared glad to see them, and 
 desired them to keep near her; saying, they 
 had but very little time to be together, for 
 she was near going ; and at several times, 
 
89 
 
 gave them counsel and advice. The en- 
 suing' evening, appearing to be sensible 
 that death was approaching, she called se- 
 veral of her nearest connexions to her, 
 and in tender endeared affection,, embraced 
 them, as taking her last leave, endeavour- 
 ing to communicate something to them, 
 which, by reason of great weakness and 
 difficulty of utterance, was not clearly un- 
 derstood ; after which the force of her dis- 
 order deprived her of her understanding, 
 and she expired in the morning following, 
 the 20th of Sixth month, 1804, aged 31 
 years. 
 
 By her removal, I feel my loss to be 
 great ; yet T am comforted in a belief, that 
 she hath laid down her head in peace, and 
 that her immortal spirit is at rest with the 
 Father, having received the blessed an- 
 swer, " Well done, good and faithful ser- 
 vant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." 
 
 Thomas Willis, 
 
90 
 
 The Testimony of Ahial Giffbrd and Joanna, 
 his wife, concerning their daughter 
 Joanna. 
 
 THIS our daughter never gave latitude 
 to youthful inclinations, which lead into 
 undue liberties, as many do ; and as she 
 grew hi years, she experienced a happy 
 advancement in the way of the Lord's re- 
 quirings, and became engaged vocally to 
 espouse the cause of Truth in meetings for 
 religious worship, which was acceptable to 
 her friends. She did not long enjoy her 
 health, but soon fell into a gradual decline, 
 during which, she uttered many comforta- 
 ble and seasonable expressions, and gave 
 advice to the youth and others, which we 
 hope will not be lost. Some of her ex- 
 pressions being preserved, are as follows : 
 
 The second or third day of her confine- 
 ment, a number of young people and others 
 being present, she invited them to sit down 
 in silence, that they might be favoured to 
 feel the Lord's living presence ; when she 
 was engaged to warn the lukewarm, not 
 
91 
 
 to put off their day's work until sickness 
 ensued, as the pains of the body would be 
 enough to bear, without the distress of the 
 mind, for disobedience ; and those who had 
 been favoured in some measure to give up 
 their names to serve the Lord, were en- 
 couraged to hold on their way. Next 
 morning, some friends being about to take 
 their leave, she, in a pressing and affecting 
 manner, expressed her concern for a young 
 woman who had been long afflicted with 
 sickness, that she might not forget the 
 power by which she had been visited, but 
 be given up in faithful obedience to him 
 who had called her, and not put it off for 
 a more convenient season, as there was no 
 time more acceptable than the time pre- 
 sent. She also pressingly advised them not 
 to forsake the attendance of religious meet- 
 ings, which is our reasonable duty ; and 
 when there, to endeavour to silence all 
 their own creaturely desires, that they might 
 be favoured to feel the living presence of 
 the Lord, to the refreshment of the soul, 
 which was to be prized above all the en- 
 joyments of a perishing world. At another 
 
92 
 
 time, she said to her father, she did not 
 think she should continue long, and desired 
 they would give her up, as she saw nothing 
 in her way, and expressed the satisfaction 
 she had in her deep exercises. Two young 
 women coming into the room, she request- 
 ed them to sit by her bedside ; and after a 
 short silence, spake to the state of their 
 minds in an affecting manner, exhorting 
 them to deny themselves of every thing 
 that the Lord had a controversy with, set- 
 ting forth the love of God in a living and 
 sensible manner : soon after, she said " You 
 are going to supper ; I hope you will wait 
 upon the Lord, that you may know your 
 strength to be renewed, which is the way 
 to be contented with that which best suits 
 our constitutions, and not to desire many 
 rich dainties," At one time, being asked 
 by her father how she did she pleasantly 
 answered, " I am well enough :" two of 
 her brothers coming into the room, she 
 said, cc Be kind to your parents ;" adding, 
 " There is no greater joy to parents, than 
 to see their children walk in the Truth/' In 
 the course of her sickness, she was divers 
 
93 
 
 times beard to express great concern for 
 the prosperity of Truth the world over, 
 without respect to the distinguishing name 
 of religion. Her concern for the welfare of 
 her fellow creatures was so great at one 
 time, that she expressed a willingness to 
 lay down her own life, if it would be the 
 means whereby one soul might escape ever 
 lasting misery. 
 
 Her sickness was long, which she bore 
 with resignation ; though she sometimes 
 desired that the time of release might come, 
 but begged she might be favoured with 
 patience to wait the Lord's time. She was 
 frequently engaged in supplication to the 
 throne of grace, and expressed much ten- 
 derness for her parents, especially for her 
 mother, who was very weakly, to whom 
 she would often remark, ce I do not know 
 but thou wilt wear out in taking care of 
 me;" saying to the young woman who 
 waited on her, " Thou wilt be rewarded." 
 One of her brothers coming to see her the 
 day of her decease, her father asked her, 
 if she had any thing to say to her brother, 
 she answered, " I have done my day's 
 
94 
 
 work, and that makes me easy to part with 
 him." A few hours before her departure, 
 she said to her father, (C Who can desire 
 me to stay any longer ? " He replied, that 
 he had no desire for her continuance ; at 
 which, she was rejoiced ; and soon after, 
 her speech failed her ; though she appeared 
 to be sensible until near the last ; and she 
 quietly passed away, as one falling into a 
 sweet sleep, the 29th of the Fifth month, 
 1802, aged near Twenty-five years. 
 
95 
 
 The Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of 
 Galway, concerning William Odell. 
 
 IT appears that he was born in the year 
 1755, in the town of Weston, in Fairfield 
 county, and State of Connecticut, of pa- 
 rents by profession Presbyterians ; and re- 
 ceived his education amongst that people. 
 About the 24th year of his age, he removed 
 to Ballston, in the county of Saratoga, and 
 State of New York. Being brought under 
 religious exercise, he became convinced, 
 that the religion which he had possessed 
 was merely traditional, and not sufficient 
 for him ; and as he continued to seek the 
 Lord, with desires to be instructed in the 
 right way, after much exercise and many 
 humiliating seasons, he became convinced 
 of the Truth; and as he submitted to the 
 dictates thereof, he was led to seek a peo- 
 ple that were concerned to walk by the 
 same rule, and to mind the same thing. 
 Hearing of a Meeting of Friends, about 18 
 miles from him, he attended it to satis- 
 faction, and in time became a member of 
 
96 
 
 our Society. His zeal and concern to meet 
 with his brethren to wait upon the Lord 
 were such, that he often travelled on foot., 
 to and from the aforesaid meeting in a day ; 
 and being faithful to manifested duty, he 
 grew in grace, and in the saving knowledge 
 of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ; and 
 it pleased the Head of the Church to qualify 
 him for the work of the ministry, whereby 
 he was constrained in gospel love, to tell 
 unto others what the Lord had done for 
 him ; and was often concerned to invite 
 the attention of the people, to the word 
 nigh in the heart and in the mouth. He 
 manifested a concern for the right ordering 
 the affairs of the Church, and to impart 
 suitable counsel and caution to his beloved 
 children. He was a kind neighbour, and 
 an affectionate and sincere friend, which 
 gained him the esteem of his acquaintance 
 and friends. 
 
 He was taken ill from home, on Fourth- 
 day, the 3d of Seventh month, 1805, with 
 the billious cholic, but returned home that 
 evening. He signified, that it was uncer- 
 tain how his disorder might terminate, but 
 
97 
 
 said, if the Lord had no further service for 
 him, he had no desire to live any longer. 
 
 On Sixth-day, he said to his children, " I 
 shall leave you exposed on every hand ; 
 and wished them to be watchful and careful ; 
 adding, <c I want you to do well." Seventh- 
 day, he appeared to be in great bodily dis- 
 tress, which a relation of his observing, 
 asked him, if he was not discouraged ; to 
 whom he cheerfully answered, "No, child! 
 there is nothing to discourage ; if I die, 
 there is no cause of discouragement." On 
 First-day, he expressed his love to his 
 friends and neighbours that came to visit 
 him. On Second-day morning, his children 
 being near him, and discovering their grief, 
 he said to them, cc Get down to that which 
 gives strength ;*' adding some expressions 
 in supplication for their preservation A 
 person coming in to see him, inquired how 
 he did ; after speaking something in regard 
 to his disorder, he said, cc I am very unwell, 
 yet I feel nothing to discourage ; but, Oh ! 
 it is a great thing to be prepared to die — 
 and they are unwise who put it off until the 
 closing scene : it is the business of life* I 
 E 
 
98 
 
 feel my mind quiet, and centered in the 
 ocean of love and infinite goodness. 
 
 Thus, what he believed in and had felt 
 concerned to propagate in his life, he was 
 established in at the day of his death. A 
 few hours after the foregoing expressions, 
 he quietly departed this life, the 8th of the 
 Seventh month, 1805, aged about 50 years,, 
 and a minister 12 years. 
 
99 
 
 The Testimony of Nine-partners Monthly 
 Meeting, concerning William Valentine. 
 
 HE was born in the township of Hemp- 
 stead, on Long' Island, in the year 1730. 
 His parents not being in profession with 
 any religious society, he was left to choose 
 for himself therein. From his own account, 
 he was, when young, frequently brought 
 under a deep concern for his everlasting 
 welfare, which continued for some years, 
 without his finding that which he longed 
 for. In this state of mind, he attended the 
 public Quarterly Meeting of Friends at 
 Westbury, where, by the powerful ministry 
 of Samuel Fothergill, who was extensively 
 engaged in gospel labour, he was con- 
 vinced of the principles of Truth, as held by 
 Friends. This was a day of glad tidings, 
 his spirit being comforted in the enjoyment 
 of the presence of Christ his Saviour, whom 
 he now found to be near, even within him- 
 self. After this, he diligently attended the 
 meetings of Friends at Westbury, mostly on 
 foot, (being in low circumstances,) though 
 e2 
 
100 
 
 he lived at a considerable distance ; and 
 persevering in faithfulness to the manifes- 
 tations of Truth, he was enabled patiently 
 to bear the cross, and became an example 
 of Christian sobriety. After some years, he 
 received a gift in the ministry, and his com- 
 munications were acceptable and edifying. 
 
 In the year 1783, he removed within the 
 compass of this Meeting, where he con- 
 tinued to reside till his decease. He was 
 a diligent attender of meetings for worship 
 and discipline, and honestly concerned for 
 the right order thereof, and was often en- 
 gaged to show unto others, the way of life 
 and salvation. Though he did not travel 
 far abroad in the ministry, yet he at differ- 
 ent times visited some of the remote parts 
 of this Yearly Meeting, and several times 
 the families of this particular Monthly Meet- 
 ing, to the satisfaction of Friends. 
 
 His conversation was instructive, and 
 often when he was conversing on subjects 
 of a religious nature, his spirit was broken 
 and contrited. 
 
 He loved the company of young people, 
 for whom he often expressed a concern, that 
 
101 
 
 they might be prevailed on to devote the 
 morning of their days to the service of the 
 Lord ; testifying, from experience, that they 
 never would have cause to repent of it, but 
 that they would come to witness, that a day 
 in the Lord's courts, is better than a thou- 
 sand elsewhere. 
 
 When, through bodily indisposition, he 
 was confined at home, he appeared much 
 resigned to his allotment; often mentioning, 
 that he was fast hastening to the grave, and 
 had no desire to live longer if it was the 
 Lord's will to remove him hence; yet he 
 hoped to keep clear of anxiety on that ac- 
 count, and said, " I am patiently waiting, 
 and quietly hoping, until my change come/' 
 
 Thus having been devoted to the service 
 
 >f Truth, he was favoured in his concluding 
 
 moments with a peaceful mind, and quietly 
 
 departed this life, the 6th of the Fourth 
 
 month, 18O5, aged about 78 years. 
 
 eS 
 
10 J 
 
 The Testimony of Nine-partners Monthly 
 Meeting, concerning Mary Griffin. 
 
 IT appears that she was born at Stoning- 
 ton, in the State of Connecticut, in the 
 Fifth month, 1710, of parents of the Society 
 of Presbyterians, who being- zealous in their 
 profession, endeavoured to educate her a- 
 greeably thereto. Her mind was early and 
 tenderly visited with the influence of divine 
 love, agreeably to her own expressions : 
 tc I do, from a degree of experience, certain- 
 ly know, that the holy spirit is moving upon 
 the minds of children in early life, reproving 
 for evil doing, and justifying for well doing; 
 and when young, I often retired alone, and 
 the breathings of my mind were, that if I 
 were spared to arrive to the state of a 
 woman, the Lord would enable me to be- 
 come a good woman : but by not yielding 
 in faithfulness to the manifestations of Truth, 
 my mind was led into the vanities of youth, 
 for which I was secretly reproved ; and 
 when, having arrived to mature age, attend- 
 ing a meeting appointed by Friends near 
 
103 
 
 my residence, the Father of mercies was 
 pleased to meet me in a most wonderful 
 manner : may I never forget the tender 
 dealings of a gracious God/' As she at- 
 tended to the teachings of divine grace, her 
 understanding became enlarged in know- 
 ledge and experience in spiritual things, 
 and through obedience to the manifestations 
 of Truth, she came forth in a public testi- 
 mony for the cause of righteousness, about 
 the twentieth year of her age. In the year 
 1745, she removed with her husband within 
 the limits of this Monthly Meeting, and be- 
 came eminently qualified for service and 
 KSSKJiSess j.i me management 01 mc ui^*- 
 pline of the Church. Her ministry was 
 lively and edifying, and she was frequently 
 led, in the tlowings of gospel love, tenderly 
 to invite the youth to forsake the vanities 
 of this life, clearly holding up to their view, 
 the great advantage of an early dedication, 
 in choosing the Lord for their portion ; and 
 as she dwelt near the spring of eternal life 
 in her own mind, so she was remarkably 
 disf mguished by the character of a true dis- 
 ciple ; loving, kind, affectionate, and eour- 
 e 4 
 
104 
 
 teous to all. She several times travelled in 
 the service of the gospel in divers parts of 
 this Yearly Meeting,, and twice into New 
 England. Her services in these visits, were 
 very satisfactory and comfortable to her 
 friends : and when more than four score 
 years of age, she performed an extensive 
 and very acceptable visit, in the love of the 
 gospel, to the northern parts of this Yearly 
 Meeting, in which the divine life manifestly 
 accompanied her religious services, being 
 supported and carried through to admira- 
 tion. She continued lively and green in 
 very advanced age, her mind appearing cen- 
 
 xerea and settled on the living roummuon* 
 and about the ninety-fifth year of her age, 
 she performed a satisfactory visit to a num- 
 ber of the Monthly Meetings in Nine- 
 partners and Stanford Quarterly Meetings, 
 and the families constituting them ; and in 
 the hundredth year of her age, when she 
 was so weak in body, as not to be well able 
 to stand alone, she felt her mind drawn to 
 visit a part of the families of Nine-partners 
 particular meeting, which, by the aid of 
 her friends, she performed, and was led to 
 
105 
 
 point out and speak with clearness to par- 
 ticular states among those she visited, and 
 attended several public m?eti g^ at this 
 place, wherein she was admirably f ivoured 
 to communicate suitable counsel, in a lively 
 and pertinent manner. In these visits, the 
 declaration of the Psalmist was abundantly 
 verified : (i those that be planted in the 
 house of the Lord, shall flourish in the 
 courts of our God : they shall still bring 
 fruit in old age ; they shall be fat and 
 flourishing/' Thus having been long ex- 
 ercised in her heavenly Master's cause, she 
 seemed absorbed in his love, and her con- 
 verse was much about the things that per- 
 tain to an everlasting state. When retired 
 and meditating alone, which was her fre- 
 quent practice, she was heard to say, ct I 
 hope ere long to rest eternally in the arms 
 of thy love." At another time, after re- 
 covering from a fainting fit, to which she 
 was subject, she exclaimed, " I feel love to 
 flow to all mankind, and I believe this love 
 will yet increase, and Truth prosper and 
 spread through distant lands, even where 
 they sit as it were in darkness ; and that 
 e 5 
 
106 
 
 the knowledge of the Lord will cover the 
 earth as the water does the sea : rny heart 
 is filled with praises to the Lord, that he 
 not only called me in my youth, but en- 
 abled me to follow him, and is yet with me 
 in old age. Oh, it is well when we can 
 say with the apostle, f I have fought a good 
 fight, I have finished my course, I have 
 kept the faith ; henceforth, there is laid up 
 for me, a crown of righteousness, which 
 the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give 
 me at that day ; and not to me only, but 
 unto all them also, that love his appear- 
 ing." She gradually declined, continuing 
 in a sweet frame of mind, and in the morn- 
 ing of the 1st of Twelfth month, she desired 
 her daughter (who had been with her on a 
 visit, and proposed leaving) to stay another 
 day, as she had long wished her to be pre- 
 sent at her close. Towards evening, after 
 a fainting turn, she called for her children 
 and grand- children, and addressed them 
 with her last words, saying, (C Fear the 
 Lord above all things, and keep up your 
 religious meetings ;" and in a few hours, 
 she breathed her last, which was on the 2d 
 
107 
 
 of Twelfth month, 1810, aged 100 years 
 and about ? months ; and we doubt not, 
 but she has obtained the fulness of her peti- 
 tion, which was, " May I be favoured so to 
 live, that I may at last receive the reward 
 of f Well done/ and an entrance into the 
 joy of my Lord/' 
 
 js 6 
 
108 
 
 The Memorial of the Monthly Meeting of 
 Hudson, concerning Thomas Comstock. 
 
 IT appears that he was born at Provi- 
 dence, in the State of Rhode Island, the 
 3d of the Ninth month, 1738, N. S. His 
 parents, Thomas and Mercy Comstock, 
 were religiously disposed persons, and fre- 
 quently attended Friend's Meetings. 
 
 In his youth, he was of a serious turn of 
 mind, and by careful attention to the in- 
 ward manifestations of divine light, we 
 believe he in a good measure witnessed de- 
 liverance from the dominion of sin. 
 
 After many deep baptisms and close ex- 
 ercises, he became prepared for the impor- 
 tant work of the ministry ; and from the 
 best accounts we can obtain, about the 
 29th year of his age, came forth in that 
 important service, to the acceptance of his 
 friends. He travelled considerably in the 
 service of Truth within the compass of the 
 Yearly Meetings of Rhode Island, New 
 York, and Pennsylvania, approving himself 
 faithful in the discharge of his duty : and 
 
109 
 
 we believe his labours were to the satisfac- 
 tion of Friends,, and to the peace of his own 
 mind. 
 
 In the year 1766, he entered into the 
 marriage state with our esteemed friend, 
 Elizabeth Haviland, of Flushing, Long 
 Island, and shortly afterwards, removed to 
 Oblong, in this State, and he was long a 
 useful member of that meeting. 
 
 During the last 26 years of his life, he 
 resided in the city of Hudson j and we 
 have cause for thankfulness in having been 
 so favoured with his religious services. 
 
 In doctrine, he was sound and edifying : 
 not forward to utter words, careful to min- 
 ister from right authority. Humility and 
 meekness, were conspicuous traits in his 
 character. Although it was sometimes his 
 lot to feel great depression, yet we believe 
 he often had to witness the truth of the de- 
 claration, iC Blessed are they that mourn, 
 for they shall be comforted/' Mat. v. 4. 
 
 He was diligent in the attendance of our 
 religious meetings, while of ability of body : 
 and being convinced of the spirituality of 
 all true worship, we often beheld in him a 
 dignified example of solemn silence. 
 
110 
 
 Deep in religious experience,, and pos- 
 sessed of a feeling mind, he was peculiarly 
 qualified to sympathize with the afflicted. 
 His heart and house were always open to 
 receive his friends with genuine hospitali- 
 ty, preserving that simplicity of life which 
 adorns the followers of Christ. He was 
 punctual in fulfilling his engagements, en- 
 deavouring to avoid every occasion of of- 
 fence, being a great lover of peace. 
 
 In conversation, instructive and often 
 cheerful ; his company, even in advanced 
 years, continued to be very desirable : and 
 when increasing infirmities of body disabled 
 him from attending meetings, his under- 
 standing remaining clear and unimpaired, 
 his advice was often sought for. 
 
 Thus he passed through the various pro- 
 gressions of a religious life, faithfully en- 
 deavouring to promote the cause of univer- 
 sal righteousness on earth ; and in his con- 
 versation amongst men, perhaps it may be 
 said, that few have been preserved in a 
 more undeviating line of rectitude. 
 
 He peacefully departed this life, the 11th 
 of the Third month, 1811, aged 79, a minis- 
 ter about 50 years 
 
ill 
 
 The Testimony of Stanford Monthly Meet- 
 ing, concerning Sarah Hull. 
 
 SHE was daughter of Edward and Phebe 
 Hallock, of Marlborough, Ulster county, 
 in the State of New York, who instructed 
 her in the principles of the Christian religion 
 as held by the Society of Friends ; which, 
 together with the example of Friends who 
 put up at her father's house, was blessed to 
 her, tending to turn her mind, in early life, 
 to the internal monitor, by whose reproofs 
 for lightness of conduct, she was favoured 
 to see that it was well with the righteous, 
 and to dread the displeasure of the Al- 
 mighty. 
 
 In this state of mind, she frequently sought 
 places of retirement to pour forth her tears, 
 and pray to the Lord that she might be 
 favoured to witness his help to walk in a 
 way that would be acceptable to him. 
 
 In some of these seasons, when favoured 
 with a sense of the heavenly Father's love, 
 her tears were tears of joy ; and she willing- 
 ly entered into covenant, that if the Lord 
 
112 
 
 would be with her, and keep her from evil, 
 she would serve him all the days of her life : 
 her mind was also attended with a belief, 
 that if she was faithful, she would have to 
 testify to others of the goodness and mercy 
 of the Lord, and to invite them to come and 
 partake thereof. 
 
 It was a pleasant duty to her to attend 
 religious meetings, often riding a consider- 
 able distance on horseback to those for 
 church discipline ; none being held near 
 her Father's place of residence, whilst she 
 lived with him. 
 
 In the year 1785, she mas married to our 
 friend, Henry Hull, of Stanford, in Dutchess 
 county, and settled within the limits of this 
 meeting, then a branch of Creek Monthly 
 Meeting. She was soon noticed by Friends, 
 for her diligence in attending meetings, 
 avid for her exemplary and pious conduct 
 in other respects. She was of a pleasant, 
 cheerful disposition, and disposed to be use- 
 ful to her fellow creatures, seeking occasions 
 therefor without ostentation. Her sym- 
 pathetic mind often led her to the habita- 
 tions of the afflicted, where she was fre- 
 
113 
 
 quently engaged in acts of kindness, and 
 in imparting salutary counsel, which ren- 
 dered her visits pleasant, and particularly 
 useful to some who were under discourage- 
 ment from other causes beside bodily afflic- 
 tion. 
 
 She was frequently left alone with the 
 care of his family, when her husband was 
 engaged in travelling in the ministry, to 
 which service she cheerfully gave him up. 
 
 About the thirty-first year of her age, she 
 came forth herself in that important work, 
 with much diffidence. Her appearances in 
 the ministry tb r several years were not fre- 
 quent; but being careful to wan for tht 
 renewed evidence of Truth, her offerings 
 were very acceptable ; and by being faithful 
 in the little, she grew in her gift, and be- 
 came a well qualified instrument for the 
 Lord's work. She frequently performed 
 religious visits to the families of Friends, 
 in this and the neighbouring Monthly Meet- 
 ings; and also travelled within the limits of 
 Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and this Year- 
 ly Meeting. The last of these visits, was 
 in the year 1810, when parting with her 
 
114 
 
 husband in the city of New York; as he 
 was about embarking on a religious visit 
 to Great Britain and Ireland, she recom- 
 mended him with her own soul to the care 
 and protection of Israel's Shepherd, and 
 then returned home ; and after a few days, 
 she left her children, in much tenderness of 
 spirit, and set out for the Yearly Meeting 
 on Rhode Island, which she attended, and 
 went from thence as far as Nantucket; and 
 taking meetings in the way, returned home. 
 After her return from this journey, she was 
 several times heard to say, that she believed 
 it would be the last visit from her to Friends 
 in New England, which proved to be the 
 case : she, however, performed several short 
 journies, which kept her from home a few 
 days at a time, returning joyfully to her 
 family, who were dear to her, and to whom 
 she was an example of kindness and charity. 
 In the spring of the year 1812, a solemn 
 dispensation of sickness, which proved mor- 
 tal to many, spread a general alarm amongst 
 the inhabitants of this and some adjacent 
 places ; in the progress of which, she ap- 
 peared to be raised above the fear of danger, 
 
115 
 
 visiting- the sick, and attending meetings 
 and burials; and was much favoured in the 
 exercise of her gift in the ministry ; the 
 streams of gospel love which flowed through 
 her, tending to console the hearts of many. 
 On the 19th of Third month, after re- 
 turning from the funeral of a friend, she 
 complained of severe pain in the head, and 
 the prevailing fever setting in, she was soon 
 confined to her bed ; where she evinced 
 the fortitude of a Christian, and could look 
 back and reflect on her endeavours to ad- 
 vance the cause of religion, with thankful- 
 ness. Her mind appeared to be filled with 
 love to all mankind, and particularly to her 
 friends around her, saying, she believed all 
 was done for her comfort that was necessary 
 to be done, and that she was resigned to 
 wait the termination of the disorder. To a 
 friend who came in, she said, u I now know 
 that I have not followed cunningly devised 
 fables, but living and substantial truth." 
 At another time, when her mind seemed 
 filled with heavenly love, speaking of the 
 happy state of the righteous, she said, " I 
 am raised above all doubting, my good 
 
116 
 
 Master has shewn me, that he has prepared 
 a seat for me/' At another time, calling a 
 young man to her, cc This is a time to prove 
 religion, and I now find that the religion 
 I have lived in, will do to depend upon : 
 leave all mysterious reasonings and doubt- 
 ings, seek the God of thy father and of thy 
 mother, and he will be found of thee : be 
 faithful to a little light, and it will be in- 
 creased/' Having, she said, done her day's 
 work wiiile in health, she was ready when 
 it was the divine will to receive the reward 
 thereof. A few minutes before her depar- 
 ture, with great difficulty of utterance, she 
 said, {C I want to go to bed ; as says the 
 prophet of the righteous, they shall enter 
 into peace, they shall rest in their beds :' ? 
 and then, in a peaceful state of mind, de- 
 parted this life, on the 4th of the Fourth 
 month, 1812, aged about 48 years, leaving 
 the consoling evidence, that she had gone 
 to the abodes of rest and peace. 
 
117 
 
 The Testimony of Nine-partners Monthly 
 Meeting, concerning Reuben Palmer. 
 
 IT appears, that he was born at Horse 
 Neck, iu the State of Connecticut,, of pa- 
 rents who were in profession with the Pres- 
 byterian Society. In his minority, they be- 
 came convinced of the principles of Truth 
 as held by Friends, and removed to this 
 place in the early settlement of it, and 
 joined in religious fellowship with our So- 
 ciety, in the year 1742. He was naturally 
 of a lively, cheerful turn of mind, yet in 
 early life, so far submitted to the operat.on 
 of the divine principle in the heart, as to 
 be preserved in a good degree of innocency, 
 and thus he continued until about the for- 
 tieth year of his age, when he was brought 
 into exercise of mind, and led to believe 
 that a dispensation of the gospel was com- 
 mitted to him. Many and deep were the 
 baptisms of spirit which he passed through 
 while under the preparing hand ; and about 
 the forty-sixth year of his age, he came 
 forth in the ministry, bearing a living tes- 
 
118 
 
 rimony to the satisfaction and comfort of 
 his friends ; and although a man of small 
 capacity , yet through faithfulness to divine 
 openings, he became qualified to preach 
 the gospel in the demonstration of the spirit, 
 to the refreshment and encouragement of 
 the exercised traveller Zionward ; occasion- 
 ally warning the unruly and gainsaying, 
 being also concerned for the right ordering 
 of the discipline of the Church. He did 
 not travel much out of the compass of our 
 own Yearly Meeting in the exercise of his 
 gift, yet was devoted to his heavenly Mas- 
 ter's cause, manifesting a concern for the 
 young and rising generation, frequently 
 visiting them in their habitations, and, like 
 a skilful nursing father, watching oppor- 
 tunity to caution, counsel and advise them, 
 being often favoured to break a crumb to 
 the tender minds of these, as well as to 
 those of riper years. Many of us can sub- 
 scribe to the expressions of the apostle as 
 applicable to him ; that he had no greater 
 joy, than to hear of his children walking in 
 the Truth. He continued his labours in 
 these parts, often visiting the adjacent meet- 
 
119 
 
 frigs, and particularly the northern parts 
 of our Yearly Meeting'. About the 75th 
 year of his age, he apprehended it his duty 
 to remove and settle in Rensselaerville, in 
 the compass of Coemans Monthly Meeting; 
 and although it was trying to his friends, 
 especially at that advanced age, yet they 
 resigned him to the disposal of his heaven- 
 ly Father, and as he had lived, so he parted 
 with his friends, in love. He continued 
 there near 7 years, where (we have cause 
 to believe) his religious services were very 
 useful, in which time, through the con- 
 strainings of divine love, he made a visit 
 to the families of this Monthly Meeting; 
 often expressing, that he had come there 
 to take a final farewell of his dear friends. 
 His visit was very acceptable, and through 
 the continued goodness of his divine Master, 
 his cup was made to overflow, under a 
 grateful sense of which he took leave, and 
 returned home ; and according to his own 
 expressions, it proved a final parting. From 
 thence, with his children, he removed and 
 settled at Western, in Oneida county, and 
 from Friends of that place, we have received 
 the following remarks : 
 
120 
 
 He lived amongst us about three years 
 and a half, and was beloved by his friends 
 and neighbours. He was a constant attender 
 of meetings,, while able. His ministry was 
 sound and edifying. A few months before 
 his death, he visited a number of families of 
 Friends and others to their satisfaction, and 
 his own peace of mind. He was often heard 
 to say, that he felt thankful that he had 
 been enabled in his old age and weakness, 
 to perform those labours of love which he 
 believed were required of him. As the time 
 of his dissolution drew near, his love and 
 concern for the Truth and its testimony, 
 appeared to be unabated. He often ex- 
 claimed in our public meetings, " Oh ! 
 Western, Western, now is the day of thy 
 visitation ; close in with it. " He was, 
 whilst amongst us, a pattern of innocence 
 in lift and conversation. During his last 
 sickness, which continued about nine weeks, 
 he underwent much bodily pain, and bore 
 it with great patience and Christian forti- 
 tude; saying, " My pain is all in my body; 
 I feel none in the best part." He often ex- 
 pressed great desires to be taken to the 
 
121 
 
 rest of the righteous, having a firm hope 
 and belief that he who had preserved him 
 thus far, would carry him safe through; 
 often expressing a desire, that Friends 
 might get into the just man's path ; for he 
 had found by experience, that it grew 
 brighter and brighter : and a little before 
 his close, prayed as follows : Cf O Lord, re- 
 member my children and grand -children, 
 relations and dear friends, the world over. 
 O, that thou wouldst be pleased to lengthen 
 the cords of Zion, and strengthen her stakes, 
 that thy righteousness and truth might pros- 
 per in the earth." One morning, he said, 
 (i I have had a very poor night, but I now 
 feel my heavenly Father's presence, and 
 such sweetness of mind, that I have nothing 
 to do but to die ;" adding, "tell Friends to 
 be engaged to keep up their religious meet- 
 ings." 
 
 He departed this life, the 11th of Eighth 
 month, 1811, aged about 86 years, having 
 been a minister about 40. 
 
122 
 
 The Testimony of Amawalk Monthly Meet- 
 ing, concerning Sarah Underhill. 
 
 SHE was the daughter of Robert and 
 Rebecca Fields members of Purchase Month- 
 ly Meeting. Her mother was removed by 
 death when she was quite young, but through 
 the humbling visitations of divine grace, she 
 was made willing to yield obedience thereto, 
 and to seek an inheritance in the Truth ; 
 and by persevering in faithfulness to the 
 unfoldings thereof, she became qualified to 
 be a useful member of religious society. 
 
 After her marriage with our friend Isaac 
 Underhill, she faithfully performed the im- 
 portant duty of a wife, being attentive, kind, 
 affectionate, and indeed, a true help-meet to 
 him on all occasions. 
 
 Her care and piety were particularly 
 exemplified in the education and manage- 
 ment of a numerous offspring. She was 
 concerned to seek for wisdom and under- 
 standing to nurture them in the fear and 
 admonition of the Lord : and from the ful- 
 ness of her concern for her children's welfare, 
 
123 
 
 she would frequently, as she walked by the 
 way, or was sitting by her fireside, invite 
 their attention to the Law of the Lord 
 written in their hearts, and her petitions 
 were often preferred to the throne of grace 
 on their behalf. 
 
 Diligent in the attendance of meetings, 
 even to advanced age, she was also an ex- 
 ample of humility and reverent waiting in 
 them. Her countenance grave and sweet, 
 evinced the serenity of her mind and the 
 weightincss of her spirit, and that she was 
 deeply engaged to perform true and accept- 
 able worship ; and we have no doubt but 
 she frequently experienced, on those solemn 
 occasions, the verity of the Psalmist's de- 
 claration, (i The voice of rejoicing and sal- 
 vation is in the tabernacles of the righteous/' 
 Thus, sensible of the benefit as well as the 
 importance of the duty, she was careful to 
 encourage her children and domestics to, 
 the steady attendance of religious meetings, 
 and to make way for seasons of retirement 
 in her own family, having the Scriptures 
 and other suitable books often read. 
 
 Being of a cheerful disposition, and re- 
 f2 
 
124 
 
 mark able for her courtesy and affability, 
 she often mingled in pleasant converse with 
 her friends ; and having much place with 
 those in early life, as well as with those 
 who were older, (for all loved her society,) 
 those seasons were generally interesting ; 
 and as her mind was under the influence of 
 love, and attracted thereby to the source of 
 good, they were often to edification and 
 the promotion of the cause of righteousness. 
 Instructed in the school of Christ, she 
 became qualified to be an older in the 
 Church, and a mother in Israel. Sensible- 
 of her dependence on the Lord for daily 
 support, it was her practice often to medi- 
 tate on his goodness, frequently appearing, 
 at such seasons, to be filled with thankful- 
 ness in the enjoyment of the divine presence. 
 And having in the vicissitudes and exercises 
 which marked her progress through life, 
 experienced the supporting arm of the Lord 
 to be with her, she would often gratefully 
 commemorate his wonderful dealings, and 
 encourage others in a feeling manner, to 
 faithfulness and obedience to the law of the 
 Spirit of life, that so they might know Christ 
 
125 
 
 to be the way and the door into the sheep- 
 fold, their sanctification and redemption- 
 Being endued with an intelligent mind, 
 enlightened by divine truths she was quali- 
 fied to discern the early buddings of wrong 
 things in her own family and others, and 
 being vigilant in care, gentle, but unwearied 
 in her endeavours to reclaim, her labours 
 rarely failed of acceptance. 
 
 She was a zealous supporter of the dis- 
 cipline of the Society, and careful to ex- 
 emplify in her own conduct a correspond- 
 ence with her precepts. 
 
 Commiserating the afflictions of her fel- 
 low creatures, for which she was remark- 
 able, her sympathy was often directed to 
 the sufferings of the Africans and their 
 descendants, in a state of bondage. 
 
 Her last illness was short, and being oc- 
 casioned by a paralytic shock, rendered her 
 very helpless, and in great measure deprived 
 her of the use of speech. She, nevertheless 
 retained her understanding, and was pre- 
 served to the closing scene, in that sweet 
 disposition which had been so distinguishing 
 a trait in her character through a long life. 
 
126 
 
 waiting with patience and resignation for 
 the hour of dissolution. At intervals, she 
 would be pleasant as if in perfect health, 
 and strive to communicate to those about 
 her, and although with much difficulty, she 
 occasionally uttered a few words. Her 
 bodily afflictions were great, and at times 
 she also experienced much poverty of spirit. 
 At one time, she expressed herself so as to 
 be distinctly understood, " I beg that I may 
 be preserved to the end : our Saviour desired 
 that the cup might pass from him, but said, 
 Not my will, but thine be done;" adding, 
 cc submission to suffering is also necessary 
 for us." 
 
 She desired, that a friend who was sick 
 should be told from her, " not to give way 
 to discouragement, but to lift up her head 
 in hope, for help was near." To several 
 young friends who came to see her, she 
 imparted tender and affecting counsel, 
 though with faltering accents; urging the 
 necessity of faithfulness to manifested duty. 
 One evening, she said, "Oh, how poor and 
 destitute 1 am, yet I have no cause to be 
 discouraged ; what shall we do when we 
 
127 
 
 have no light? Look to the Lord and he 
 will help." 
 
 At another time, " I have an anchor to 
 my soul, and am surrounded with light : I 
 have been labouring, and have got to the 
 bottom : all is light and life." 
 
 A short time before her departure, she 
 said, <c I am willing to go ; I am filled with 
 light ; I am surrounded with light, and 
 centered in it." After being fervently en- 
 gaged in supplication, she departed this life, 
 the 20th of Third month, 1812, aged 78 
 years ; and having been concerned to keep 
 the commandments of God and the faith of 
 Jesus, we have no doubt but the voice from 
 heaven which John heard, will apply to 
 our beloved friend : " Blessed are the dead, 
 which die in the Lord, from henceforth ; 
 yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest 
 from their labours, and their works do follow 
 them." Rev. xiv. 13. 
 
 FINIS. 
 
 London : printed by W. Phillips t 
 George Yard, Lombard Street. 
 
MEMORIALS 
 
 CONCERNING 
 
 DECEASED FRIENDS : 
 
 BEING 
 
 A SELECTION FROM THE RECORDS 
 
 YEARLY MEETING FOIt PENNSYLVANIA, &C. 
 
 The Year 17S8 to 1819 inclusive. 
 
 Till LA DELPHI A PRINTED : 
 ( LONDON, 
 REPRINTED AND SOLD BY WILLIAM FHILLIPSj 
 
 George Yard, Lombard Street. 
 
 1821. 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 The Yearly Meeting* having directed that a 
 selection of the Testimonies concerning- deceased 
 Friends should be made by the Meeting for 
 Sufferings, the following have been taken from 
 the Records, as being most likely to convey that 
 instruction and benefit, to which a work of this 
 kind is peculiarly adapted. 
 
 In contemplating the mercy and goodness of 
 an Almighty Providence, who hath so amply fur- 
 nished the world with the means of subsistence 
 and comfort for all his creatures, according to 
 their respective spheres of enjoyment, the mind 
 is led into humble admiration and praise ; but 
 when, through the influence of his Holy Spirit, 
 we are enabled to view his unspeakable love, in 
 sending his beloved Son a light into the world, 
 to redeem his rational creation from sin, and its 
 consequent misery in the world to come, we are 
 truly prostrated in reverent adoration, and pre- 
 pared to exclaim, in the language of the Psalmist, 
 " What is man, that thou art mindful of him ! 
 and the Son of man, that thou visitest him !" — 
 Here we can appreciate the blessed efficacy of 
 Divine Grace, reproving, wooing, and seeking to 
 instruct man in his fallen, unregenerate state, 
 A 2 
 
IV 
 
 that he may not frustrate the design of his crea- 
 tion, but make straight steps to his feet, and 
 come up into the enjoyment of perfect peace. — 
 Thus the following accounts clearly shew, that it 
 was only by taking heed to this heavenly Monitor, 
 and submitting to its operation, that the corrupt 
 will and natural propensities of those individuals 
 have been crucified, and a qualification expe- 
 rienced to do the will of God, which purifies the 
 soul, and gives an inheritance among all them 
 which are sanctified. 
 
 The lives of the righteous, and their unshaken 
 confidence in the hour of dissolution, have in all 
 ages been esteemed as powerful auxiliaries in 
 the advancement of piety and virtue : under this 
 consideration it is much desired, that the path of 
 the just, exemplified in the following work, may 
 engage the serious attention of all, and more 
 especially the youth, animating and encouraging 
 them in pressing after an acquaintance with the 
 Spirit of Christ in their own hearts, that they 
 may be favoured with his Divine Presence, and 
 partake of that Bread which nourisheth the soul 
 unto eternal life. 
 
 Philadelphia, M mo. 1821. 
 
MEMORIALS 
 
 CONCERNING 
 
 DECEASED FRIENDS. 
 
 Testimony of Warrington Monthly Meeting 
 concerning Joanna Heald, late of York- 
 town, Pennsylvania. 
 
 She was daughter of Silas and Susanna 
 Prior ; born, according to her own account, 
 the 16th of the Second month,, 1706,, in 
 Kennett township, Chester county. She 
 was remarkably diligent in the attendance 
 of our religious meetings, both for worship 
 and discipline, often getting out to monthly 
 and other meetings through great difficulty 
 and bodily weakness ; and having, at times, 
 a short testimony to bear therein, it was to 
 the comfort and edification of Friends. 
 
 Towards the latter part of her time, 
 bodily weakness increasing, she was con- 
 fined to her bed, about the last of the Fifth 
 month, 1783. Several friends coming in, 
 after a short time in silence, she, in a ten- 
 der lively frame, broken into tears, said, 
 A3 
 
cc I am weak in body, and know not whe- 
 ther I can be heard ; yet feel myself strong 
 in the love of God, which I experience to 
 be amongst us at this time/' 
 
 The 6th of the Sixth month, several 
 young people and others being present, 
 after a time of stillness, she expressed her 
 desires, that the children of believing pa- 
 rents might not, through their own dis- 
 obedience, be excluded the kingdom in the 
 time spoken of, when many should come 
 from the east and from the west, from the 
 north and from the south, to sit down with 
 Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. 
 
 Next morning, two friends calling to see 
 her, she signified, that though she was 
 weak and low in body, yet she was clear in 
 her understanding ; and after expressing 
 her concern respecting superfluity in ap- 
 parel, mentioning some things in particular, 
 said, " I wish them to be entirely done 
 away out of the Society, and believe the 
 way for it will be for ministers, elders, and 
 overseers, steadily to bear their testimony 
 against them. When 1 had young children 
 to provide for, I had more satisfaction in 
 clothing them agreeably to the simplicity 
 and plainness of Truth, than I could have 
 
had iu adorning them in fine colours:"— 
 Then, after lying about ten minutes in a 
 solemn quiet, said, " I have not strength 
 to express the prospect I have had of the 
 church that is washed ; and I have prayed 
 that you might be preserved to keep your 
 places, and bear your testimony amidst a 
 wicked and perverse generation." 
 
 The ?th of the Seventh month, in the 
 evening, some of her grand-children being 
 present, she said, " I have been much con- 
 cerned about the education of your child- 
 ren. I earnestly desire you may wait for 
 the word of Divine Grace, that you may 
 thereby be enabled to bring them up hi 
 the nurture and admonition of the Lord : 
 and though it is not in your power to con- 
 fer grace, yet the care of parents in edu- 
 cating their children is often blessed, and 
 proves like preparing the ground of the 
 heart to receive the seed of the kingdom." 
 
 The 13th, several friends coming in, she 
 signified her great satisfaction in having 
 their company ; and, after a short time in 
 silence, said, " I have trusted in the Lord all 
 along, and have often poured out my soul 
 before him, that he would be pleased to be 
 with me at all times, and continue with me 
 
8 
 
 to the end ;" from which time she gradually 
 declined without much pain or sickness for 
 several weeks,, during which she uttered 
 many lively expressions and exhortations 
 to those about her. 
 
 A short time before her decease, having 
 spent most of the night without sleep, in 
 the morning she signified that this portion 
 of scripture had been fresh in her mind, 
 great part of the night before ; to wit, 
 " My covenant was with him of life and of 
 peace, and I gave them to him for the fear 
 wherewith he feared me, and was afraid 
 before my Name/' signifying, she now felt 
 his covenant of life and peace with her, as 
 a sufficient reward for all she had gone 
 through. 
 
 She departed this life, the 31st of the 
 Tenth month, 1783, in the 78th year of her 
 age, and we believe is entered into rest. 
 
 Extract from a Testimony of JVrightstozon 
 Monthly Meeting, in Bucks County, con- 
 cerning Thomas Ross. 
 
 He was born, according to his own re- 
 lation, in the county of Tyrone, in Ireland; 
 
descended of reputable parents, members 
 of the Episcopal church ; and received a 
 religious education. 
 
 Coming into America about the twentieth 
 year of his age, and settling within the li- 
 mits of Buckingham Monthly Meeting, he 
 soon after became convinced of the [prin- 
 ciples of J Truth, as professed by Friends, 
 and joined in membership with them. Al- 
 though his natural inclinations and passions 
 were strong, yet by yielding obedience to 
 the Spirit of Christ as manifested in his 
 own mind, he was supported in his warfare, 
 and witnessing a victory over the same, 
 became qualified to administer counsel and 
 encouragement to others. 
 
 Not long after his convincement, it plea- 
 sed the Lord to bestow on him a gift in 
 the ministry, and being careful to keep 
 chaste in his espousal to the Bridegroom 
 of souls, he experienced a growth, to the 
 edification of many in this and the neigh- 
 bouring governments. Being conversant 
 in the Holy Scriptures, he was often led to 
 open the doctrines therein contained, and 
 frequently pressed Friends to a diligent at- 
 tention to those sacred writings. He fre- 
 quently visited meetings in this and the 
 
10 
 
 adjacent governments,, with which, Friends 
 in those parts expressed their satisfaction. 
 
 Having, for many years, been exercised 
 with a prospect of a religious visit to the 
 churches in his native land, and in Eng- 
 land, and his mind being renewedly drawn 
 towards this weighty engagement, about 
 the latter part of the year 1783 he spread 
 his concern before the respective meetings 
 of which he was a member, and obtaining 
 the concurrence and near sympathy of the 
 same, embarked in the Fourth month, 1784. 
 For an account of his labours and the 
 peaceful state of his mind, see the Testi- 
 mony of York Monthly meeting, Great 
 Britain, 
 
 Testimony of York Monthly Meeting ( Great 
 Britain) concerning Thoivias Ross, late 
 of Wright stown Meeting in Bucks County, 
 Pennsylvania, a Minister, icho departed 
 this life at Holdgate, near the City of 
 York, the \3th of the Second month, 17SG, 
 in the 78th year of his age. 
 
 To perpetuate the memory of the just, 
 by endeavouring to render their examples 
 and precepts beneficial to others, is a debt 
 
11 
 
 due to posterity as well as to the praise of 
 his Name, by whom they have been made 
 more than conquerors,, and become pillars 
 in his house which go no more out. 
 
 Having the unity and near sympathy of 
 his friends and brethren at home, as appears 
 by sundry certificates, he embarked in the 
 Fourth month, 1784, with divers ether 
 Friends, under the like religious engage- 
 ments, and arrived in London just before 
 the Yearly Meeting, which, though under 
 bodily infirmities, he attended. 
 
 He was detained by indisposition in and 
 near that city for some time after ; then pro- 
 ceeded in this religious service to Scotland. 
 
 His bodily indisposition increasing, he 
 was under the necessity of resting at Old 
 Meldrum, Edinburgh, and Newcastle ; from 
 which last place, taking a few meetings 
 in his way, he reached York, the 2nd of 
 Eleventh month, and was at our monthly 
 meeting the day following, which was the 
 last meeting he was able to attend. 
 
 During the course of his travels, we have 
 abundant cause to believe his religious ser- 
 vices were truly acceptable to Friends, and 
 well received by others; for, having an 
 especial eye to the puttings forth of the 
 
12 
 
 Divine hand, his ministry was attended 
 with living virtue and deep instruction ; 
 though " not in the words which man's 
 wisdom teacheth," yet in godly simplicity, 
 and with a zeal according to true know- 
 ledge : he was wise in detecting the snares 
 of the enemy ; faithfully, and without par- 
 tiality, warning those who were in danger 
 of falling therein ; and, as in the course of 
 his own sanctification, he had been made 
 deeply acquainted with the necessary bap- 
 tisms peculiar to that important work, so 
 he was furnished by living experience, and 
 the renewings of holy help, with qualifi- 
 cations to administer, in tender sympathy, 
 pertinent and wholesome counsel to the 
 true Christian travellers ; and so to dip into 
 the present state of the church, as profit- 
 ably to " declare unto Jacob his trans- 
 gression, and to Israel his sin." 
 
 In meetings for business he was particu- 
 larly serviceable, his remarks being mostly 
 short, pertinent, patient, and very instruc- 
 tive; exciting to a steady attention to divine 
 counsel in the transacting of our Christian 
 discipline, and therein to exercise true 
 judgment without partiality and respect of 
 persons. 
 
IS 
 
 During the course of his illness he was 
 preserved in a heavenly frame of mind; on 
 almost every occasion, dropping instructive 
 counsel and advice to friends who attended 
 on and visited him, of whHi the following 
 collection is but a small part. He fre- 
 quently said that he knew not why he was 
 continued in such an exercised state of 
 bodily weakness, yet doubted not but that 
 it was all in wisdom, and for some good 
 end ; adding, " it was not for the clay to 
 say to the Potter, why hast thou made me 
 thus." 
 
 Sitting in the family where he was during 
 the fore-part of his illness, he expressed 
 himself thus : " Dear young people, keep 
 to your first love. The Bridegroom of 
 souls will not be unmindful of the bride, 
 whilst she remains chaste : some of you, I 
 believe, are espoused to him. O, the ardent 
 desire which I feel for the youth ! — Thy 
 name is as ointment poured forth, there- 
 fore do the virgins love thee." 
 
 The same day — cc I have not sought mine 
 own honour, but the honour of him who 
 first drew me from my habitation,, and have 
 great reason to praise his name. One thing 
 which inclines me to think my work may 
 
 B 
 
14 
 
 be near done, is this, that it never appeared 
 to be laid upon me to pay a general visit 
 to England." 
 
 At another time said, <c O, the harmony 
 there is in the Lord's family! Ephraim shall 
 not envy Judah, nor Judah vex Ephrahn, 
 nothing shall hurt or destroy in all thy holy 
 mountain. " 
 
 Again, under bodily oppression, " I find 
 no relief but when I feel a revival of that 
 which is the healer of breaches ; but that is 
 not at my own command. My mind was, 
 last night, much drawn out to my fellow 
 labourers. O, that they may keep little ! — 
 I have remembered that saying, * There 
 are a few names even in Sardis, who have 
 not denied their garments/ and I hope 
 there are a few in York. Dear friends, 
 what a people we should be, did we dig- 
 deep enough; our lights would shine be- 
 fore men ; we should be as the salt of the 
 earth. How many who have begun well, 
 have had their garments defiled with the 
 world, and are become like the salt that 
 has lost its savour ; they are as dead weights 
 in our assemblies, so that the living are 
 scarcely able to bear the dead. O, friends, 
 keep to the Truth, for it shall rise above 
 the heads of gainsayers." 
 
15 
 
 At another time, cc I could not be more 
 at home any where., it revives me to see the 
 children about me. I tell you, young people, 
 the hardest thing I ever found in my passage 
 was, when I was right, to keep so. O, the 
 desire I felt to get here ! the love I feel for 
 you is like the love of Jonathan and David, 
 it extends over sea and land. It is like the 
 precious ointment, so that some can say, 
 with one formerly, — Neither heights nor 
 depths, principalities nor powers, things 
 present or to come, shall ever separate us 
 from it. 
 
 " The least star casteth a lustre, as the 
 glorious luminaries in the outward creation; 
 so that we may say, c Great and marvellous 
 are thy works, Lord God Almighty, just and 
 true are all thy ways, thou King of saints/ " 
 
 Again, — cc Commune with thine own 
 heart, and be still ; this is doing business : — 
 O, how precious Truth is ! it may employ us 
 on the highway, and in our outward en- 
 gagements — dear friends, let us prize it." 
 
 To the physician : — Ci The outward man 
 grows weaker, yet inward support waxeth 
 stronger and stronger/' 
 
 The same day he said, <c It is a great fa- 
 vour to have a brook by the way — O, L see 
 
16 
 
 my way over all ! it is like a foretaste of 
 what is to come : blessed are the dead, who 
 die in the Lord — when he breaks in upon 
 us, it is like balm — there is balm in Gilead 
 — there are many not willing to go to the 
 house of mourning, but there is occasion 
 for it; it being high time to repair the 
 breaches." 
 
 V I have thought, for many weeks past, 
 the curtain was near drawn ; there seemed 
 but few sands left in the glass : and yet I 
 sometimes feel such a travail for Zion's 
 prosperity, and the enlargement of her bor- 
 ders, that I am ready to think the day's 
 work is not yet done ; and at other times I 
 feel so feeble and weak, that all seems near 
 over : the event I cannot tell, but am fa- 
 voured to be resigned." 
 
 At another time, — {( Think nothing too 
 near or too dear to part with, dear young 
 people, to purchase the Truth : your parents 
 cannot give it you, though they may give 
 you all they can ; it is the Lord's preroga- 
 tive. I have thought it was a great favour 
 to have an education in the Truth ; but I 
 have been grieved to see many born in the 
 Society, like Esau, selling their birth-right. 
 Be not ashamed of the cross, dear friends, 
 deny him not before men." 
 
17 
 
 Again, c< Beware of lawful things ;' these 
 lawful things are the strongest baits Satan 
 ever laid for our Society. O, these lawful 
 things, they have hurt many. What a tes- 
 timony would it be, if Friends were to shut 
 up their shops on week-days, to go to meet- 
 ing ; which ought to be the main concern ; 
 though many consider wordly things as 
 such. When we have done all we can, we 
 are but as unprofitable servants; we can 
 add nothing to him, who is the Fountain of 
 Goodness — O, that Ocean of ancient Good- 
 ness, I seem at times, as if I was swallowed 
 up in it — I have cause to be thankful that 
 I am favoured with a resigned mind, and 
 have no will, either to live or to die — O 
 Father, receive me into thy bosom /' 
 
 At another time, — iC O, my heart is knit 
 to you, my friends, and to the seed which 
 is in bondage in many hearts; and though 
 you may have to go with it into the wilder- 
 ness, yet be not discouraged. " 
 
 Feeling himself easier, and his mind fa- 
 voured, he said, — O, when he puts in his 
 hand, as at the hole of the door, how does 
 it smell of sweet myrrh — 1 hope I am not 
 insensible from whence my help comes ; he 
 sometimes hides himself as behind the cur- 
 b3 
 
IS 
 
 tain ; yet we must not awake or disturb 
 our beloved,, until he please. " 
 
 To a friend., — (C Keep to thy gift, and look 
 to the Giver, and have no confidence in the 
 flesh." On the general state of mankind, he 
 said thus : " O, how has my mind been op- 
 pressed in observing that profaneness which 
 abounds amongst the people, many of whom 
 draw iniquity as with cords of vanity, and 
 sin as with a cart rope. Yet 1 have this 
 satisfaction, that I have not failed to reprove 
 many of those I have seen in this state, and 
 have often advised inn-keepers and others, 
 to discourage all kinds of wickedness in 
 their houses : my advice hath been gene- 
 rally received without gainsaying, and I 
 have comfort in the discharge of this duty." 
 Sympathizing with faithful Friends, he re- 
 marked, " where there are few faithful la- 
 bourers, the work falls heavy upon them ; 
 we cannot expect to rise high when the seed 
 lies low." 
 
 Under much bodily affliction, he said, — 
 " How can one die better than in the Lord's 
 service ; for he has been indeed a wonderful 
 counsellor He has many times opened a 
 way, when I could see no way ; he will never 
 leave not* forsake those who trust in him." 
 
19 
 
 Again, " It is a trying time, and yet I be- 
 lieve I have a well-grounded hope of having 
 done my dnty. I feel no condemnation. O, 
 dear friends, what a favour indeed, that we 
 have an unction from above! keep to the 
 Truth and its testimonies. " 
 
 At another time, — Ci It will not do for any 
 to rest contented with having known the 
 Lord in days past, and years that are over 
 and gone ; we must follow on to know him ; 
 a supply of daily food is requisite ; and if 
 there is not a hunger and thirst after right- 
 eousness, we may be sure the mind is dis- 
 tempered ; but O, how have I been pained 
 to see and feel many of the professors of the 
 Truth going after the world and its spirit; 
 who, instead of being way -marks, are as 
 stumbling-blocks to many enquirers — the 
 state of these is lamentable. I have been 
 comforted in the prospect of a rising genera- 
 tion, if they are not hurt by those who ought 
 to be helpers, loving the present world." 
 
 (C I have in my time met with many cross 
 winds and boisterous waves, but have been 
 preserved in a care to keep near to the point 
 that guides to the harbour of rest. For these 
 fifty years I have been endeavouring to fight 
 the good fight of faith. O, dearest Father^ 
 
20 
 
 not my will but thine be done — O^ when 
 will the curtain be drawn? that this mortal 
 may put on immortality and eternal life, 
 which will I do believe, be my happy por- 
 tion." — To some friends about to take leave 
 of him, Ci Let your lights shine wherever 
 you are — I have not much to say, but there 
 is a great deal comprised in this/' 
 
 To some young people, <c You are in 
 health ; prize it, and make a good use of 
 time ; for, to the most diligent, such a time 
 as this will prove very trying/' 
 
 He would often, in thankful commemora- 
 tion of the goodness of God to him, break 
 forth in these words — " What shall I render 
 unto thee, O Lord, for all thy benefits." 
 
 A few days before his decease, on a friend 
 returning from meeting, he said, he had 
 been favoured with such a calm, that he 
 hoped he should have passed away. And a 
 day or two before he died, he broke forth 
 in these words : ce O joy ! joy ! joy !" Again,, 
 f( O Death ! where is thy sting ? O Grave ! 
 where is thy victory ? the sting of death is 
 sin : I see no cloud in my way, I die in 
 peace with all men." 
 
21 
 
 Testimony from the Monthly Meeting of 
 Greenwich, concerning Mark Reeve. 
 
 The Lord was pleased to visit him with 
 the clear manifestations of his grace and 
 truth, and as he joined in therewith, he be- 
 came fitted and prepared for service in the 
 church. 
 
 » He dearly loved the society of his breth- 
 ren, and much prized unity ; knowing the 
 comfort and benefit thereof, he obtained 
 the character of a peace-maker. 
 
 A gift in the ministry was conferred upon 
 him, and his mind became enlarged in the 
 love of the gospel, preferring the service of 
 truth to every outward consideration. In 
 humility and meekness of spirit, his desires 
 were to strengthen and encourage the good 
 in all; that the unity of the Spirit might be 
 experienced to be the bond of true gospel 
 fellowship, and that each member might 
 till its station and proper allotment, to the 
 edification and comfort of the body in love. 
 
 The situation of the enslaved and op- 
 pressed Africans early became the concern 
 of his mind ; and being deeply exercised on 
 their account, he was a zealous advocate 
 for their liberation both at home and abroad. 
 
22 
 
 Being blessed with a sufficiency, his house 
 and heart were open to entertain his friends; 
 and in a particular manner such who were 
 under religious engagements to travel in 
 the cause of truth; to whom he was desi- 
 rous to be a fellow-helper in the gospel, in 
 much meekness and love. 
 
 His last illness was lingering and at- 
 tended with much pain, which he was pre- 
 served, in a good degree, to bear with 
 patience and resignation to the divine will: 
 in which time many friends visited him, to 
 whom he was frequently led to communi- 
 cate advice suitable to their states, in a 
 lively and feeling manner. One of his bro- 
 thers coming in to see him, a short time 
 before his decease, he said to him, with a 
 composed and quiet mind, " I am glad to 
 see thee once more ; I am drawing fast to- 
 wards a conclusion, and am thankful I am 
 not forsaken in the present hour ; and as I 
 have given the preference to the service of 
 truth, 1 feel its gracious influence present 
 with me : and clear I am, if Friends did 
 but dwell near it, in the love of the gospel, 
 their labours would be more blessed with 
 success. Give my love to enquiring friends 
 and otherSj as occasion may ofler ; and let 
 
23 
 
 them know, that in the same faith I have 
 lived, I take my leave of the present world." 
 He passed away in a quiet state of mind, 
 on the 25th of the Tenth month, 1788, in 
 the 65th year of his age. 
 
 Testimony from Upper Springfield Monthly 
 Meeting, concerning Mary Stevenson. 
 
 She was of a kind and affectionate dis- 
 position, and in her deportment cheerful 
 and engaging. 
 
 She visited the meetings of Friends in 
 Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia; and, 
 a little before her decease, nearly all the 
 meetings in New Jersey. Though weak 
 in body, she was a constant attender of 
 our religious meetings, and was particularly 
 serviceable in meetings for discipline, being 
 much concerned for right order therein. 
 
 Some of her expressions, a little before 
 her departure, were nearly as follow. 
 
 Third month 30th — She expressed her 
 resignation to the divine will, and thank- 
 fulness that she felt universal love to all 
 mankind. A friend taking leave of her de- 
 siring resignation might be given her, she 
 
9A 
 
 replied, <c 1 am thankful there is nothing 
 in the way;" and sometime after said, 
 c< Though at times I may be compared to 
 a well without water, yet there is a hope 
 bearing up and supporting amidst the toss- 
 ing waves of affliction ; and I have, this 
 day, found strength in weakness/' 
 
 31st.— « The Lord hath not only lifted 
 me out of the miry clay, but hath establish- 
 ed my goings, and hath, at times, given me 
 to sing as on the banks of deliverance." 
 
 Fourth month 1st. — She mentioned the 
 necessity of a steady attendance of meet- 
 ings, saying, ec it will not avail for people 
 to go when they please, and stay when they 
 please ;" and in the language of affection 
 and encouragement, she addressed some 
 with an assurance that peace and true sa- 
 tisfaction would be the reward of obedience 
 to the Lord's requi rings, though in small 
 things ; and that early years was an accept- 
 able sacrifice to the Lord — and said, she 
 was ready and willing to leave all things ; 
 for which she was reuewedly thankful, hav- 
 ing a comfortable hope, or indeed could 
 say an evidence,, (hat her soul would rest in 
 peace. 
 
 2d. — Apprehending her life near its close, 
 
25 
 
 signified it might be a night of rejoicing 
 for her. She passed the evening in great 
 stillness, as though asleep, and revived with 
 fhese expressions, " O, what a sweet even- 
 ing I have had." 
 
 In the morning of the 3d, a change ap- 
 pearing, she was still concerned for the pre- 
 servation of her nearest connections through 
 all the temptations in this world. The con- 
 flict between life and death sh/> bore with 
 fortitude. Desirous of being released, she 
 expressed in broken accents, " Gracious 
 and merciful Father, do thou enable me ! '}, 
 and departed this life about seven o'clock 
 in the morning of the 4th day of the Fourth 
 month, 1788, aged 58 years, and a minister 
 about 20 years. 
 
 Some of the last Expressions of Elizabeth 
 House, Daughter of Amos House, who 
 laboured under a lingering asthmatic com- 
 plaint, which she endured with Christian 
 fortitude to the end. Approved by Ken- 
 nett Monthly Meeting, 
 
 About two weeks before her death, being 
 visited by her father and one of her aunts, 
 she said, " 1 have endeavoured to live the 
 
26 
 
 life of the righteous, that my last end might 
 be like his." 
 
 The next morning having an opportunity 
 with her sisters, she said, (C You are made 
 near to me ; I know what it is to tread the 
 slippery paths of youth. I have kept my 
 hands busied about that which I thought 
 was doing good. Were my days to live 
 over again, 1 should not employ them so 
 much in needless things ; such as decking 
 and adorning the body as in fine linen, 
 though I never was very fashionable ;" with 
 much more of like import, suitably adapted 
 to their age and circumstances. In the 
 afternoon several friends visited her, and 
 were favoured with a solemn opportunity, 
 to her consolation, as she expressed. 
 
 The week following being asked by her 
 father if her mind was easy, she cheerfully 
 replied, " quite so, quite so." On First-day 
 the 1st of the Eleventh month, her aunt 
 coming to see her, she said to her, " I have 
 read of some that had felt the help of the 
 spirits of others ; 1 think I have felt the 
 £ood of thine. I find but few burden-bear- 
 ei*s. I have desired to have thee present at 
 the conclusion. I want, if thou and my 
 sisters should be spared a little longer, 
 
27 
 
 that, thou should put them in mind of me. 
 People in health and strength don't prize 
 time, till it is too late." On Second-day 
 morning' she said, " I have been ready to 
 say, O youth ! youth ! can a youth enter 
 the kingdom. She being in great bodily 
 pain, said, cc Lord pity me — I hope the 
 Comforter will come, and I shall be releas- 
 ed — joyful news it will be." At another 
 time, said, " I now feel my mind quite 
 easy ; no fear hangs about me ; I never 
 committed any great sin in my life, but, 
 like many others, have let the cumbering 
 things take too much hold. I have clearly 
 seen where I missed it. I do not see any 
 thing more to do but to die. He that 
 knows all things, knows that I love him 
 above all." When her pain somewhat aba- 
 ted, she would frequently acknowledge it 
 a high favour ; and with great fervency of 
 spirit, said, lc Lord; add to my patience, 
 that I may endure the tilling up the mea- 
 sure of my afflictions." At another time 
 said, cc my mind is fixed upon the Lord, 
 and has been taken from things here." 
 
 She often expressed she felt racking pain, 
 and in the morning of Fourth-day said, " I 
 know not whether life or death ; I am fully 
 c2 
 
28 
 
 resigned to go, but have no knowledge 
 when." She pleasantly said to her aunt, 
 c< I feel quite easy." Her friends appear- 
 ing concerned ; she, after laying some time, 
 with a countenance denoting a joyful as- 
 surance of joining the heavenly host, and 
 with a voice not to be described, expressed 
 herself, <c don't distress yourselves for me ; 
 the light that I see exceedeth the sun in the 
 firmament — all light, all life, all love, all 
 peace. — A friend coming into the room, 
 expressing sympathy for her in her afflic- 
 tions, she replied, " I now feel no pain ;" 
 and continued sensible, as appeared by her 
 expressions. She quietly departed on the 
 4th day of the Eleventh month, 1789,, in 
 the 24th year of her age. 
 
 A brief Memorial from Philadelphia Month- 
 ly Meeting concerning Mary Armitt, a 
 native of Philadelphia, who deceased on 
 the ISth of the Second month, 1791. 
 
 In her youthful days, as she yielded obe- 
 dience to divine instruction, she witnessed 
 a growth and advancement in the life of 
 true religion; and through its gradual 
 
29 
 
 powerful workings became,, in the course 
 of time, an useful and exemplary member 
 in the church, being many years in the 
 station of an elder and overseer. 
 
 The weightiness of her spirit, stability of 
 conduct, and inward retiredness of mind, 
 evidenced a qualification for these impor- 
 tant services ; and we believe she endea- 
 voured faithfully to discharge the several 
 trusts reposed in her. 
 
 She was favoured in her last sickness 
 with many intervals of divine consolation ; 
 and under the sense thereof, frequently 
 broke forth in commemoration of the Lord's 
 judgments and mercies : and as it may tend 
 to the encouragement of the living- in the 
 way to righteousness and peace, some of 
 the many lively, savoury expressions which 
 dropped from her may be usefully pre- 
 served, viz. 
 
 " I have had many low seasons which the 
 Lord only knows ; I hope he will be with 
 me to the end, and preserve me in the pa- 
 tience. " One enquiring how she did, she 
 replied, " very low ; I am going to leave 
 you, but I feel a calm — 1 think I may say 
 a sweet calm ; I believe I am going to 
 peace." Sometime after she called, by 
 c3 
 
30 
 
 name, a young woman who had lately come 
 amongst Friends by convincement, and 
 said, ec Hold fast thy profession ; thou hast 
 bought the Truth ; don't thou sell it : if 
 thou keeps near it, it will preserve thee, 
 and do great things for thee/' 
 
 At another time she said, c< Sweet Jesus 
 come. I give thee thanks for the multitude 
 of thy mercies. Holy Father preserve the 
 young generation, that they may stand in 
 awe before thee ; bring them up in thy pure 
 fear, that they may see the vanities of this 
 world, and the beauty of true religion. " 
 
 At another season, " O how the enemy 
 comes in like a flood, but the Spirit of the 
 Lord will lift up a standard against him. 
 Great peace have all they that love the di- 
 vine law, and nothing shall offend them." 
 
 And again, — V I can say with David, 
 though I walk through the valley of the 
 shadow of Death, I will fear no evil." 
 
 Some little time before her departure, the 
 powers of speech much failing, she uttered 
 with difficulty, (i He hath brought me to 
 his banqueting house, and his banner ov^r 
 me is love." Nearly her last expressions 
 were, " It's all peace — it's all joy for ever- 
 more." 
 
31 
 
 In the undoubted assurance of everlast- 
 ing rest, she peacefully breathed her last — 
 Aged 83 years. 
 
 Testimony from Chester Monthly Meeting 
 concerning William Fell. 
 
 He was an active and serviceable mem- 
 ber of our monthly meeting upwards of 
 forty years ; a considerable part of which 
 time he filled the stations of overseer or 
 elder, being endowed with remarkable hu- 
 mility and meekness ; an example of plain- 
 ness, diligent in the attendance of religious 
 meetings from his youth, instructive and 
 weighty in his conversation, and service- 
 able in settling controversies amongst 
 neighbours; being truly desirous to pro- 
 mote peace amongst all classes of men. 
 
 He manifested a weighty concern for the 
 proper education of our youth, as also of 
 black children; and about the year 1765, 
 with the concurrence of our meeting, visited 
 most or all the members thereof who held 
 slaves, which appears to have had a good 
 effect; and continued often to visit those 
 who were set free., giving such pertinent 
 
32 
 
 counsel as might tend to their spiritual and 
 temporal welfare. 
 
 In his last illness he was favoured with 
 great patience ; in which time he often ex- 
 pressed a concern for Friends of the par- 
 ticular meeting to which he belonged, 
 especially the youth ; and about two days 
 before his decease, said to a person present, 
 " There is no true happiness to be attained 
 in this world, nor that which is to come, 
 but that which hath its foundation in pure 
 love : and in a short time after said, that in 
 looking back over his past life, he had to 
 acknowledge there was nothing that ever 
 he had done, which alone could be sufficient 
 to entitle him to an admittance into the 
 heavenly kingdom ; notwithstanding he had 
 passed through some trying dispensations, 
 and bore many heavy burthens, if any good 
 was ever done by him, it was through the 
 aid of the Holy Spirit ; but said, he had 
 faith in Christ ; and if he was saved, it was 
 through the adorable goodness of the Al- 
 mighty. 
 
 At another time he appeared under great 
 exercise of mind, and said he had passed 
 through the deepest baptism, in his present 
 sickness, he had ever experienced ; and after 
 
33 
 
 expressing a perfect resignation to the di- 
 vine will, said, he was easy in his mind. 
 
 He dropped many more weighty expres- 
 sions to friends and neighbours who came 
 to see him, particularly the youth ; which 
 were often affecting to them. 
 
 He appeared fervent in prayer till near 
 the close, and favoured with his senses al- 
 most to the time of his departure, which 
 was on the 5th of the Third month, 1792, 
 in the 76th year of his age. 
 
 Testimony from the Monthly Meeting of 
 Friends of Philadelphia for the Southern 
 District concerning Daniel Offley. 
 
 Our beloved friend Daniel Offley, son of 
 Daniel and Rachel Offley of this city, was 
 born the 29th of the Eleventh month, 1756. 
 Being of a lively, airy disposition, he in- 
 dulged himself in many of the vanities and 
 follies incident to youth, pursuing with avi- 
 dity divers ensnaring temptations; whereby 
 he became greatly estranged to that peace 
 and substantial happiness consequent upon 
 a life of piety and virtue. In this situation 
 it pleased the Lord, in the riches of his 
 
34 
 
 mercy, to visit him with judgment, which 
 awakened him to a clear sense of his un- 
 done condition without a Saviour ; and as 
 he patiently abode under the chastening of 
 the heavenly Hand, he was favoured to 
 witness the day-spring from on high, which 
 brought glad tidings to his tossed mind 
 Yielding obedience to the secret intima- 
 tions of divine counsel, and a gift of Gospel 
 ministry being committed to him, he came 
 forth therein about the 24th year of his age; 
 and by faithfulness in the exercise thereof, 
 he grew in experience and dedication to the 
 service of his great and good Master. He 
 was also very useful in our meetings for 
 discipline, being endowed with sound judg- 
 ment, and concerned to maintain the dignity 
 thereof upon its ancient foundation. 
 
 With the unity and concurrence of this 
 meeting, he visited the meetings of Friends 
 in many parts of this continent, and also 
 several of the West India islands, to the 
 satisfaction and edification of those amongst 
 whom his lot was cast; being often through 
 deep baptism, led into close searching la- 
 bour with the indolent and luke-warm pro- 
 fessors of the blessed Truth. 
 
 During the late awful visitation of a pes- 
 
35 
 
 tilential disease in this city, [in 1793] not 
 being easy to remove from his habitation,, 
 he was almost constantly engaged either in 
 visiting or endeavouring to relieve those 
 who were afflicted therewith ; being, through 
 Divine Goodness, preserved in stability and 
 patience, he was often made a comfort to 
 many whose minds seemed ready to faint 
 under the prospect of distress and dismay 
 which appeared on every hand. 
 
 In our religious meetings, it was evi- 
 dent his spirit travailed in the deeps; being 
 through the aboundings of heavenly love, 
 concerned, in a tender manner to exhort to 
 a due discharge of all our religious duties, 
 whereby we might be qualified rightly to 
 understand the language of that afflictive 
 dispensation, and prepared to close our 
 accounts with joy. 
 
 A few days previous to his sickness, being 
 in conversation with two friends, after a 
 short pause of silence, he said, (e Be ye also 
 ready, for at such an hour as we expect 
 not, the messenger of death may be sent to 
 our houses." He was taken ill the 3rd of 
 the Tenth month, 1793 — on the next day, 
 a friend who came to see him, expressed 
 his sorrow that one who had been so ser- 
 
36 
 
 viceable among the sick should be seized 
 with the disorder, hoping he would have 
 been spared. He signified, " It matters 
 little, when in our places, how we are dis- 
 posed of, whether in life or death/' 
 
 During his illness he appeared cheerful, 
 and evidenced, by the sincerity of his mind, 
 that his trust and confidence were not sha- 
 ken, but firmly fixed in that everlasting 
 arm of power, which had redeemed his soul 
 from pollution, and supported him through 
 many seasons of deep probation. 
 
 To one who expressed a hope of his get- 
 ting better, he calmly said he was resigned 
 either in life or death. 
 
 On the 7th of the month, early in the 
 morning, his wife coming into the room, 
 asked him how he was ; being perfectly in 
 his reason, he replied in substance, that he 
 had had a very comfortable night, and been 
 overshadowed with the calming influence 
 of divine love, in a degree he had never 
 before experienced. 
 
 He departed this life on the 11th of the 
 Tenth month, 1793, aged near 37 years. 
 
37 
 
 A brief Memorial from the Monthly Meeting 
 of Philadelphia concerning Isaac Zane, 
 an Elder. 
 
 His parents were early settlers in the 
 county of Gloucester in West New Jersey, 
 where he was born in the First (now called 
 the Third) month, 1710, and became, about 
 the 14th year of his age, a resident in this 
 city ; and submitting in the days of youth 
 to the visitation of divine love and mercy, 
 he experienced a growth in grace, mani- 
 festing by example and precept, a sincere 
 concern for the advancement of the cause 
 of Truth, and the maintenance of our 
 Christian discipline ; diligently attending 
 our meetings established for that purpose, 
 as well as those for divine worship ; in 
 which religious care he continued even after 
 he became very feeble in body, and his 
 eye-sight so dim, that he was under the 
 necessity of being led to them ; upon which, 
 we are informed he has sometimes remark- 
 ed, ' c That although he went in great weak- 
 ness, (meaning of body and mind) he was 
 often favoured, through the condescending 
 goodness of the Shepherd of Israel, with in- 
 
 D 
 
38 
 
 ward -consolation, and returned to his home 
 much refreshed and strengthened." 
 
 Being acquainted with many of the Indian 
 natives of this land, who,, when he was 
 young, were numerous,, he felt for their dis- 
 tresses., and was greatly concerned for their 
 real good ; which he was solicitous to pro- 
 mote, as far as his endeavours could be 
 useful,, by embracing opportunities that of- 
 fered, when they came to this city,, or held 
 treaties with the government here or in 
 places adjacent ; and having a place in their 
 esteem and affections., he endeavoured to 
 inculcate in their minds the benefit of a 
 peaceable disposition, and the necessity of 
 their attending to the convictions of divine 
 grace. When reduced to a state of srreat 
 bodily weakness, in the time of his last con- 
 finement, he said to a friend sitting near 
 him, that cf he was willing to go, and ready 
 to go," and soon after, " that the great and 
 good Shepherd had not left him ;" express- 
 ing his sense of " the joys of the realms of 
 light," and appeared frequently to be fa- 
 voured with great consolation, making 
 melody in his heart when all was silent 
 and quiet about him, singing praises to the 
 Lord, though enduring much pain of body. 
 
39 
 
 At one time he expressed, <c I am weak in 
 body, but not in mind." A friend enquiring' 
 of him whether he expected to get about 
 again, lie replied, ce I hardly expect it," add- 
 ing, " I have seen the arms of everlasting 
 mercy open to receive me, and have a full 
 assurance, that I shall be permitted to join 
 the heavenly host in singing hallelujah, and 
 enabled with the seraphims to say, Holy, 
 holy is the Lord of Hosts ; the whole earth 
 is full of his glory." 
 
 He was favoured to retain his memory 
 and understanding to the last ; and his bo- 
 dily strength gradually decreasing, he ex- 
 pired without apparent pain, in the morn- 
 ing of the 6th of the Third month, 1794, 
 aged 84 years wanting eight days. 
 
 Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of Phila- 
 delphia concerning Margaret Haines. 
 
 She was born in this city the 26th day 
 of the First (now called the Third) month, 
 1729. Submitting to the visitations of di- 
 vine love about the 25th year of her age, 
 she became useful. Many and various were 
 the trials and exercises she had to pass 
 d2 
 
40 
 
 through, but by the sustaining help of Him 
 that hath all power in his hand, she was 
 supported under them ; being also ready 
 on all occasions to help those that were 
 engaged in the Lord's work, whether a- 
 mongst ourselves, or sneh as came from 
 distant lands to promote the cause of Truth 
 and righteousness in the earth. She was 
 remarkably benevolent and charitable to 
 the poor and afflicted, searching and find- 
 ing out objects that appeared to be much 
 hidden from general notice and observation, 
 and liberally administered to their several 
 necessities. 
 
 She filled the station of an elder, and was 
 tender and sympathising with such as had 
 the glad tidings of the gospel to preach, — 
 encouraging the young and diffident in the 
 ministry, and desirous that all might be 
 brought forward in the right line. 
 
 She was in the city when it was visited 
 with the late awful sickness and mortality, 
 [in 1793.] 
 
 The first day of her illness, which was 
 the 28th of the Ninth month, she gave di- 
 rections respecting what she wished done 
 for several poor persons, and concluded 
 with saying, <c Now l^am released from this 
 business," meaning her care for the poor. 
 
41 
 
 The 29th, on being asked how she was, 
 she replied, " very poorly indeed. Oh ! my 
 dear, what a favour it is those that have 
 this complaint do not lay long — the Lord's 
 will, not mine, be done." Soon after, with 
 much fervency, said, ({ O Lord, thy will be 
 done ! Oh ! that thou wouldst be with me 
 to the end, and favour me with resignation : 
 blessed be thy holy name for ever and 
 ever." 
 
 3Qth. " I have been much tossed and 
 tried this night, but my mind is now easy, 
 which is a great favour : yes, I feel quiet 
 and easy, and desire nobody may come to 
 see me ; for it is a serious thing to visit the 
 sick at this awful time. I feel my relations 
 and friends very near and dear to me, and 
 wish my affectionate love to them, but do 
 not desire any of them to come." 
 
 Several times in the course of that and 
 the next day, she broke forth in fervent 
 supplication, all of which could not be un- 
 derstood — her speech being much affected, 
 except twice that she repeated, •' O Lord, 
 thy will and not mine be done ; be with me 
 to the end, if it be thy holy will : blessed 
 be thy name for ever and ever." 
 
 These were nearly the last words that 
 d3 
 
n ere understood ; and although the disor- 
 der affected her very deeply, and she un- 
 derwent great pain, she was favoured with 
 much patience and resignation. 
 
 On the 3d of the Tenth month, 1793, 
 about half past five o'clock in the morning, 
 she quietly departed, aged 64 years and six 
 months. 
 
 A Memorial from the Monthly Meeting of 
 Philadelphia for the Northern District^ 
 respecting Charles Williams. 
 
 Our friend Charles Williams, son of 
 Hezekiah and Grace Williams, departed 
 this life on the 9th day of the Tenth month, 
 1793, in the 29th year of his age, and about 
 the 9th from his first appearance in the 
 ministry. His meek and humble spirit 
 bore instructive witness to the efficacy of 
 Truth, whereby his disposition was ren- 
 dered sweet and tender. He was a sym- 
 pathetic friend to the poor, and those in 
 affliction either of body or mind, whom he 
 often visited. His ministry was edifying, 
 evidencing the prevalence of gospel love ; 
 in the innocency whereof, being preserved 
 an example of plainness and simplicity, he 
 
43 
 
 was concerned, with much gentleness, pri- 
 vately to exhort such of our members who 
 departed therefrom ; by which proofs of 
 brotherly kindness, and his unassuming' 
 manner, he obtained a place in the minds 
 of those with whom he laboured. 
 
 In the time of great mortality with which 
 this city was visited, deeply sympathizing 
 with his friends and acquaintance who were 
 seized with the contagion, he was much de- 
 voted to afford them relief; visiting many 
 to their consolation, though his residence 
 was several miles distant. Some pious re- 
 flections on this solemn occasion, by him 
 committed to writing, it may not be un- 
 useful to note, viz, {i Ninth mo. 1st, 1793. 
 It is affecting to observe the change that 
 has taken place in this industrious city, 
 where business appeared to be the life of 
 many, and each one strove to exceed his 
 neighbour in care to gather wealth. Now 
 a stop is put to this — little business is trans- 
 acted ; and the minds of many are awaken- 
 ed to consider what is the state of their last 
 and solemn account. A serious solemnity 
 appears on almost every countenance ; and 
 1 hope by myself and many others, this vi- 
 sitation may never be forgotten/ ' 
 
44 
 
 Divine wisdom permitting, he was soon 
 after taken with the prevailing disorder, 
 which in a few days put a period to his life. 
 Favoured during his illness with a happy 
 confidence in Divine mercy, he took an af- 
 fectionate leave of his parents, saying he was 
 not afraid to die ; and under a comfortable 
 belief of his departing in peace with God and 
 man, his memory remains precious to us. 
 
 A brief Account of Samuel Hutton, of Not- 
 tingham Monthly Meeting, who deceased 
 in the 3\st year of his age : with some of 
 his expressions in his last illness. 
 
 It appears he was born within the verge 
 of New Garden Monthly Meeting, in Penn- 
 sylvania, the 28th day of the Sixth month, 
 1763; was of innocent behaviour in his 
 youthful days, much inclined to solitude, 
 and, at times, favoured with divine open- 
 ings ; and, when about 18 years of age, 
 with a lively gift in the ministry : in the 
 exercise whereof he improved, through obe- 
 dience to what he believed was required of 
 him. He was of a meek and circumspect 
 conduct, and concerned for the support of 
 
45 
 
 Truth's testimony in its several branches, 
 and, it is believed, was supported under his 
 various afflictions with a truly Christian 
 fortitude. In 1792 he removed with his 
 family to West Nottingham, finished his 
 course on the 15th of the Fifth month, 1794, 
 and was interred in our burial ground at 
 West Nottingham aforesaid. 
 
 To a friend that visited him, he expressed 
 himself thus : (C Since I have been under 
 this affliction, I have had to look over past 
 life — the many buffettings, temptations, and 
 provocations I have passed through ; and 
 now I feel my mind easy, enjoying a per- 
 fect calm over them all, which 1 deem a 
 remarkable favour, and cause of humble 
 thankfulness." 
 
 He was often heard to express a desire, 
 that he might be preserved iii patience, and 
 enabled to bear his affliction without mur- 
 muring, which he was favoured to expe- 
 rience in a remarkable manner. 
 
 The day before his decease, he gave some 
 directions concerning his burial, and that 
 his coffin should be plain, without mould- 
 ings or any kind of polish. He prayed fer- 
 vently for the preservation of his wife and 
 children ; and when taking leave of his 
 
46 
 
 near connections and others, he often re- 
 commended to faithfulness ; signifying, that 
 was the way to be prepared to meet the 
 awful messenger of death : and reaching 
 his hand to a friend, he said, " Thou hast 
 felt near to me ; be thou faithful when I am 
 gone. I have a well-grounded hope there 
 is a rest prepared for me in the mansions 
 of everlasting bliss." He also expressed 
 the love he felt to Friends generally, and 
 to all men. On his then taking a solemn 
 leave of some present, he exhorted them to 
 a right improvement of their time, that they 
 might be prepared to meet with death. 
 
 Testimony of Horsham Monthly Meeting 
 concerning James Thornton, late of By- 
 berry. 
 
 It appears from a short manuscript, left 
 by him, that he was born at Stony Stratford, 
 in Buckinghamshire, Great Britain, in the 
 year 1727. His parents dying when he was 
 about the age of fourteen years — without 
 being under the guardianship of any friend, 
 he, for a time, sought to recreate himself 
 with the company of idle boys; but be- 
 
47 
 
 coming* thoughtful of what might be the 
 effect of such a course of living, he engaged 
 in work for some of his neighbours ; which, 
 as he expressed, was a means of preserving 
 him from loose and vain company ; and 
 being, through the reaches of divine grace, 
 led to seek an acquaintance with Israel's 
 Shepherd, he was, in those young and ten- 
 der years, often favoured with heart-tender- 
 ing visitations. 
 
 About the sixteenth year of his age he 
 went apprentice to a valuable Friend, whose 
 care over him was truly useful ; and grow- 
 ing in the knowledge of the blessed Truth, 
 he appeared exercised under a dispensation 
 of the gospel ministry, giving up thereto 
 about the 20th year of his age ; and, about 
 two years after, acquainting his friends with 
 a prospect he had of removing to settle in 
 Pennsylvania, they, on weighing the said 
 proposal, gave a certificate of their unity 
 with him, and his service in the ministry. 
 
 He landed at Philadelphia in 1750, and 
 shortly after proceeded to Bristol, in Bucks 
 County, where he resided some time, and 
 then married and settled at Byberry : and 
 being frequently engaged, with the concur- 
 rence of Friends, in visiting the churches 
 
48 
 
 in different parts of this continent, and a 
 few years past, the meetings of Friends at 
 divers places in Great Britain, from the cer- 
 tificates he produced on his return from 
 those visits, it appears that his religious 
 services were well accepted. 
 
 He was an able minister of the gospel, 
 and well qualified for the discipline of the 
 church; ill which he was fervently engaged, 
 that the good order thereof might be main- 
 tained, and the camp cleansed and preser- 
 ved : his disposition kind and affable ; his 
 company and conversation being instruc- 
 tive and edifying ; his heart and house open 
 to entertain his friends ; liberal also in dis- 
 tributing to the necessities of the poor. 
 
 For several years of the latter part of his 
 time, he was much afflicted with bodily in- 
 firmity and pain, which he was enabled to 
 bear with much patience and resignation. 
 His last sickness, which continued about 
 two weeks, was very trying ; in which time 
 divers of his weighty expressions, being 
 worthy to be preserved, are as follow. 
 
 The 8th of the Fourth month, 1794, he 
 said that he had been under an exercise 
 some time past, respecting visiting some 
 places, but now he found a release, and 
 
4y 
 
 enjoyed a quiet, peaceful mind,, which he 
 preferred to every thing 1 else. Some time 
 after he was taken poorly, his disorder 
 proving complicated, he was thenceforward 
 mostly confined, though the next day, being 
 the fourth day of the week, he attended the 
 meeting at Byberry, which was the last 
 time he got from home. 
 
 On Seventh-day morning, being very ill, 
 he said, (t I have been afflicted from my 
 youth up, with bodily infirmities, and how 
 it may issue now, whether in life or death, 
 is not essential for me to know, as I have 
 a peaceful mind ; and all the world without 
 it would be nothing/' 
 
 First of the week — An oppression in- 
 creasing upon his breast, he expressed but 
 little until the night following, when it 
 again came on, and he said, ' ' This is hard 
 work, but there is a good foundation :" 
 and repeated, " This is hard work, but 
 there is a good foundation, and we ex- 
 perience hard things to be made easy, 
 and bitter, sweet." At another time, being- 
 asked how he was, he chose not to be dis- 
 turbed, but said he was quiet and con- 
 tented. 
 
 Second of the week — In the morning, he 
 
 E 
 
50 
 
 seemed much revived, and said he was 
 pretty clear of pain,, and relieved from the 
 oppression at his breast ; then said, " I 
 have seen that the honours and friendships 
 of this world are a great hindrance to the 
 progress of many in religion ; but it is what 
 I have always shunned, or I should not 
 have been able to have dealt so plainly, 
 and spoken so impartially, in meetings and 
 out, as I have done, and stood through it 
 all to this day." 
 
 Third of the week — In the morning he 
 said, <c The pleasant prospect of being soon 
 released, he could not set forth in words/' 
 It was answered, It seems not in our power 
 to do much for thee : he replied, <c 'Tis a 
 comfort my dependance is not on man." 
 
 Fifth of the week — His disorder increas- 
 ing upon him, he said, tc This is close 
 work ; but I have a peaceful mind, that 
 makes up." Several different times he ex- 
 pressed, his complaint was trying, but it 
 must be remedied by patience. 
 
 Sixth of the week — Being under great 
 bodily pain, he expressed himself nearly as 
 follows : <c It's joyful ! it's joyful ! it's all 
 light ; but it's a loss ! it's a loss that will be 
 felt by these children. Lord Jesus, thou 
 
51 
 
 art able to support under every trial, and 
 keep thine. There are many difficulties to 
 encounter with through this inconstant 
 world : all that appertains to it is transitory 
 and fading. The Lord hath begun a good 
 work, and he is able to carry it on ; look 
 to him for ability to go forward, but there 
 must be a total surrender and giving up to 
 him — Keep to meetings — Keep us we pray 
 thee, O Lord ! fit and prepare us for thy 
 glorious kingdom — call in thousands and 
 tens of thousands more, to labour in thy 
 churches, the world over — for thy ever 
 blessed cause sake, and for thy son's sake, 
 cause them to flock to thee, as doves to the 
 windows — Be pleased, O Lord ! to enable 
 all thy truly depending children, who have 
 no might of their own, to go forth conquer- 
 ing and to conquer, against all oppositions, 
 for thy sake, the cause sake, and thy blessed 
 son's sake ; although they are, and may be 
 great, thou alone art able to protect, and 
 carry them through, if there is a full dedi- 
 cation of heart to thee ; and also to sepa- 
 rate the precious from the vile, and give 
 them victory over death, hell, and the 
 grave ; so that they will be able to sing 
 triumphantly at the close of time here, 
 e2 
 
52 
 
 which makes up for all our labours ; and 
 we pray thee O Lord! give all these an 
 entrance into thy rest: with the lamb im- 
 maculate, thou art worthy of all praises, 
 hallelujah for evermore. Thou knowest, 
 
 Lord, that 1 love thee." 
 
 Seventh of the week — Being raised up, 
 he said, " Let us take all things patiently." 
 And being asked by a friend, who had just 
 come to see him, how he was, he said, (C I 
 think this has been the deepest sickness that 
 
 1 ever had, but a favoured one." 
 
 He continued much the same until about 
 the fourth hour on Fourth-day morning, 
 when a shaking fit came on him, accom- 
 panied with the pains of death, but were 
 believed to be much alleviated by a sense 
 of the Divine Presence. A few hours be- 
 fore his decease, he appeared to be some- 
 what relieved from pain, and quietly de- 
 parted about one o'clock, on the 24th of 
 the Fourth month, i?94, in the 67th year 
 of his age. 
 
53 
 
 Testimony from the Monthly Meeting of 
 Philadelphia, for the Southern District, 
 concerning Elizabeth Drinker. 
 
 This our beloved friend,, having been a 
 member of our monthly meeting a con- 
 siderable number of years, we are impressed 
 with a solid sense and remembrance of her 
 gospel labours and services, and incited by 
 the united motives of love and duty to give 
 the following testimony concerning her. 
 
 She was born in this city in the year 
 1737 3 of parents, members of our Society. 
 An inclination to piety and religious cir- 
 cumspection being apparent in her early 
 youth, as she grew in years, through sub- 
 mission to the refining baptism of the Holy 
 Spirit, she was gradually prepared for use- 
 fulness in the church, and about the year 
 1776, came forth in public ministry among 
 us. Being in a good degree faithful to the 
 gift received, it was evidently enlarged, 
 wherein she was qualified to fill more ex- 
 tensively that dignified station ; and was 
 likewise serviceable in the exercise and 
 support of our Christian discipline. 
 
 Through the drawings of gospel love, 
 e 3 
 
54 
 
 she was frequently engaged in visiting the 
 meetings of Friends in this and several of 
 the adjacent governments ; being peculiar- 
 ly fitted to speak with precision to the 
 states of individuals, both in families and 
 more public opportunities, and deeply con- 
 cerned to excite in the minds of those in 
 membership with us, a close adherence to 
 the guidance of the holy Principle of light 
 and grace ; that Zion might indeed more 
 conspicuously shine, put on her beautiful 
 garments; and those who were asking the 
 way thither, not be stumbled through the 
 unfaithfulness of such who profess to be 
 inhabitants thereof; but that her righteous- 
 ness might go forth as brightness, and her 
 salvation as a lamp that burnetii. 
 
 Being for a considerable length of time 
 under a religious concern to visit the 
 churches in Great Britain, though under 
 much weakness through infirmity of body, 
 yet was not easy to omit endeavouring after 
 a full improvement of the talent received. 
 After a season of deep probation, having 
 the unity and sympathy of Friends, and 
 obtaining the requisite certificates, she 
 embarked from hence, iri the Sixth month, 
 1793, and arrived in England the month 
 following. 
 
55 
 
 For an account of her travels and services 
 ia that nation, whilst health permitted, and 
 also of her peaceful close, at the city of 
 London, we refer to the following testimony 
 from Gracechurch-street Monthly Meeting 
 concerning her. 
 
 Testimony from Gracechurch-street Monthly 
 Meeting concerning Elizabeth Drinker. 
 
 As it has pleased infinite wisdom to re- 
 move from works to rewards, our dear 
 friend Elizabeth Drinker of Philadelphia, 
 whilst on a religious visit to this nation, we 
 are engaged to give this testimony concern- 
 ing her. 
 
 She arrived here in the Seventh month, 
 1793, and after visiting the meetings of 
 Friends in and about this city, proceeded 
 into Kent, Sussex, and the western coun- 
 ties, as far as Falmouth, returning through 
 Bristol to London , and though frequently 
 tried with indisposition of body, she was 
 strengthened in her gospel labours, we be- 
 lieve, to the comfort and edification of 
 many. Being concerned to wait for, and 
 move under the fresh arising of divine Life, 
 her ministry was sound and weighty, and 
 
56 
 
 her conduct and conversation consistent 
 therewith. 
 
 The Fourth month following, though in 
 a declining state of health, she visited the 
 meetings of Friends in Hertfordshire, &c. 
 but her complaints increasing, she stopped 
 at Staines near six weeks ; at which place 
 she expressed to a friend an apprehension 
 that her time would not be long in muta- 
 bility ; and, at the same time, mentioned, 
 that as she sat in the meeting on First-day 
 morning, though she had nothing to com- 
 municate to others, and part of the time 
 felt low and discouraged ; yet towards the 
 close, her mind was comforted in the fresh 
 revival of those expressions of the prophet 
 Habakkuk : s< Although the fig-tree shall 
 not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the 
 vine ; the labour of the olive shall fail, and 
 the field shall yield no meat; the flocks 
 shall be cut off from the fold, and there 
 shall be no herd in the stall ; yet will I 
 rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God 
 of my solvation." 
 
 She attended several meetings under 
 great bodily weakness. Her last public 
 testimony was at Westminster, where she 
 stood up with this passage of Scripture, 
 
57 
 
 " Precious in the sight of the Lord is the 
 death of his saints/' on which she enlarged 
 instructively and encouragingly. 
 
 She was also led to speak instructively to 
 those about her; at one time,, nearly in 
 these words : (c To look back, the world 
 appears trifling and vanity ; and if fresh 
 trials come,, and the storm be permitted to 
 beat as against the wall, it is good to trust 
 in the Lord, who in gloomy seasons is the 
 protector of those that fear him :" and after 
 encouraging those present to greater dedi- 
 cation, said, " The highest anthem that 
 could be sung was, Thy will be done." 
 At another time, she said, she believed it 
 was right that she had given up all, and 
 left home, whether for life or death she 
 must leave. 
 
 The few last days of her life she was 
 much engaged in supplication, dropping 
 many broken sentences; which, though 
 not fully gathered, were comfortably ex- 
 pressive of the state of her mind, breathing 
 the language of consolation and praise. 
 
 When near the close, her spirit seemed 
 measurably above the last conflict; and 
 with an animated countenance she ex- 
 pressed, f( O, the beauty! the excellent 
 
58 
 
 beauty ! the beautiful prospect in view !" 
 Then lifting up her hands, appeared for 
 some time in sweet, though silent, adoration : 
 after which she spoke but little, and with 
 difficulty, yet appeared sensible ; and in 
 the evening of the 10th of the Eighth month, 
 1794, expired so quietly, that it was scarcely 
 known when she breathed her last. 
 
 Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of Phi- 
 ladelphia, concerning J ohn Pemberton. 
 
 He was the son of our valuable and much 
 esteemed friends, Israel and Rachel Pem- 
 berton By an early sense of the divine 
 fear, joined to their parental care and pious 
 example, he was preserved from the delu- 
 sive vanities and evils into which youth, 
 through the force of temptation, and over- 
 looking the monitions of divine grace, are 
 often seduced; so that under the Lord's 
 favour and blessing, the remark of Solomon 
 was verified in him, viz. " Train up a child 
 in the way he should go, and when he is old 
 he will not depart from it." Prov. xxii. 6. 
 
 He was born in this city the 27th of the 
 Eleventh month, 1727. On coming to 
 
51) 
 
 manhood he proceeded on a voyage to 
 England, in the same vessel with our be- 
 loved friends John Churchman and William 
 Brown, who were drawn in gospel love to 
 visit the churches in that country and parts 
 adjacent. His inducements to this voyage 
 appear to have been business, and for the 
 benefit of his health ; but soon after his 
 arrival in London, feeling his mind religious- 
 ly inclined to accompany John Churchman 
 to a few meetings in the country, he was 
 further engaged to continue with our said 
 friend in his travels through most parts of 
 England, Ireland, and Holland. 
 
 In the early part of this journey, at a 
 meeting held at Penzance in Cornwall, he 
 said a few words in public testimony ; and, 
 as John Churchman relates, " tender and 
 broken, accompanied with a good degree of 
 the savour of truth." Thus, though he left 
 home on temporal concerns, having re- 
 ceived a divine call, he may be said to have 
 done, in measure, as the disciples of our 
 blessed Lord, who left their nets and fol- 
 lowed him. Having travelled together 
 about three years, they parted in much love 
 and unity. 
 
 His ministry was sound, instructive, and 
 
60 
 
 edifying ; being concerned to inculcate the 
 necessity of great circumspection of life and 
 purity of conversation, that thereby our re- 
 ligious profession might be adorned through 
 humility and a reverent sense of the Lord's 
 omnipotent care over us. He was very use- 
 ful in our meetings for discipline, being 
 zealously concerned for the support of our 
 Christian testimony and the good order of 
 the church; manifesting a tender regard to 
 such as had missed their way and become 
 the objects of care on that account. 
 
 He was careful in the remembrance of the 
 apostle's exhortation, to visit the fatherless 
 and widow in their affliction, and to keep 
 ourselves unspotted from the world ; so that 
 it may be truly said of him, he was ready 
 to do good and to communicate, and to 
 honour the Lord with his substance and 
 with the fruits of his increase. 
 
 Feeling an engagement of gospel love to 
 visit the churches in Europe, and having the 
 concurrence of his brethren, he embarked 
 for London, at New York, in company with 
 our friend William Matthews, in the 
 Twelfth month, 17S2. The vessel being 
 taken on her passage, in the English channel 
 near the Isle of Wight, by a privateer from 
 
61 
 
 France, they were carried to Dunkirk ; 
 though soon after released, and arrived in 
 England in the Second month following. 
 
 He continued in England, visiting the 
 meetings of Friends in divers parts, until 
 the ensuing Yearly Meeting held in Lon- 
 don, which he attended ; from whence he 
 proceeded to the northern counties, and 
 embarked at Liverpool for Dublin, where 
 he arrived in the Seventh month. 
 
 In the Fifth month, 1785, he returned to 
 England, and attended the Yearly Meeting 
 held at London in the Sixth month follow- 
 ing ; from whence he proceeded to the 
 western parts of that nation, and thence to 
 Scotland, visiting the Orkney Islands and 
 divers other places. He spent about two 
 years in that country, where his religious 
 labours appear to have been very accept- 
 able, especially to the poor people inhabit- 
 ing the Orknies. 
 
 After his return from thence, he remained 
 in England, visiting the meetings in Lon- 
 don and divers other places, till the Seventh 
 month, 1789, when he embarked on his re- 
 turn to this city. 
 
 After continuing mostly with his family 
 several succeeding years, sometimes visit- 
 
 F 
 
62 
 
 ing meetings in the neighbourhood of this 
 city, and those more remote in the adjacent 
 country, a concern under which his mind 
 had been exercised previous to his last re- 
 turn from Europe, from an apprehension of 
 not being fully clear of some parts there- 
 of, continuing and becoming increasingly 
 weighty, he revived and spread the same 
 before his brethren ; and obtaining their 
 concurrence to return thither, embarked in 
 a ship bound for Amsterdam, the 28th of 
 Fifth month 1794, arriving there 12th of 
 the Seventh month following. 
 
 Previous to his embarkation, his mind 
 being deeply impressed with reflections on 
 the uncertainty of life, and affected with a 
 tendering sense of the Divine goodness and 
 mercy extended for his preservation, he left 
 some observations in writing, from which 
 the following is extracted : — 
 
 " When I view my steps in life, and reflect 
 how greatly deficient 1 have been, am hum- 
 bled, and have great cause to admire the 
 great compassion and long-suffering kind- 
 ness of a gracious God, and with abase- 
 ment, acknowledge i^will be of his mercy, 
 if I am saved. If I have been helped at 
 times to be found faithful, it has been, and 
 
63 
 
 is through the efficacy of grace, and there- 
 fore no room to boast. My failure in duty 
 and watchfulness has been great : through 
 the religious care of pious parents when 
 young, and an early sense of the Divine 
 fear, I was and have been preserved from 
 the gross evils of the world to this day, 
 which is a great mercy and favour. But I 
 have often passed under many hidden con- 
 flicts for disobedience and failure in duty, 
 and at times ready to despair, and had to 
 acknowledge the Lord is righteous, what- 
 ever might be my portion ; but after days 
 of sorrow, and nights of deep exercise, he 
 has been pleased to renew light and fa- 
 vour ; under a sense of which, I desire to 
 be found more attentive, diligent, and faith- 
 ful, the residue of my days, esteeming the 
 light of the Lord's countenance, and the 
 evidence of his peace, beyond all terrestrial 
 enjoyments/' 
 
 He remained at Amsterdam a fevv weeks; 
 in which he appears to have been engaged 
 in religious labour towards the inhabitants 
 of that city, to whom he addressed some 
 cc Tender caution and advice," which was 
 printed in Low Dutch, and distributed 
 amongst them. 
 
 f2 
 
64 
 
 Finding his mind drawn to visit the few 
 Friends settled at Pyrmont in Germany, he 
 proceeded on the journey, and got to Hert- 
 ford in Westphalia, the 27th of the Eighth 
 month. The next day, walking about five 
 miles to see some religious people, and 
 being caught in the rain,, he took a heavy 
 cold ; the effect of which he never fully re- 
 covered. After being some time confined 
 there, he was enabled to proceed by Ufelen, 
 Bielefield, Lemgo, Barrenstrop, &c. to Pyr- 
 mont, where he arrived the 12th of Ninth 
 month, having had meetings and accept- 
 able service at all the before-mentioned 
 places, and many others on his way from 
 Amsterdam, particularly at Bielefield, where 
 he had a large public meeting, and many 
 select opportunities,, and also visited num- 
 bers of the principal inhabitants, being ge- 
 nerally well received, and his religious la- 
 bours appearing to be acceptable. A me- 
 morandum made 6th of the Ninth month, 
 when at Bielefield, says, <c The chill and 
 fever renewed ; I was very unwell all the 
 afternoon, and it continued till midnight 
 with a great thirst : yet, through the ador- 
 able mercy of a gracious God, I felt more 
 of the incomes of his love and life-giving 
 
65 
 
 presence, than I have experienced a long 
 time ; that I was enabled to make melody 
 in my heart, and recount his fatherly care 
 and tender dealings with me, from the days 
 of my infancy; and I had to bless his holy 
 Name. And this comfortable visitation of 
 his love and mercy continued for some 
 hours, that I was ready to conclude I might 
 soon be released from the trials and afflic- 
 tions of this life." 
 
 Between this time and the latter end of 
 the Tenth month, he had several public 
 meetings at Pyrmont, Barrenstrop, and 
 Leingo, though not without some opposi- 
 tion at the two last places ; and notwith- 
 standing his weak state of health, he regu- 
 larly attended the meetings of those pro- 
 fessing the truth at Pyrmont, having also 
 many private opportunities with them in 
 their families ; faithfully labouring for their 
 settlement on the true foundation. His bo- 
 dily weakness increasing, he was unable to 
 travel, and was much confined to his bed ; 
 but about the middle of the First month, 
 1795, he was so much better as to be able 
 to walk about his chamber, and his physi- 
 cian thought him almost out of danger. A 
 few days after, he was suddenly seized with 
 i 3 
 
66 
 
 a chill and fever, which again confined him 
 to his bed; and his illness so increased the 
 succeeding night, that his surviving until 
 the morning appeared doubtful. He con- 
 tinued very ill for several days, yet was fa- 
 voured with much calmness and resignation 
 of mind. On the 2?th he was easier, but 
 said, " If I get through this time, it will 
 be a hard struggle." On the 28th, being 
 raised up by his desire, he expressed him- 
 self to this import — cc Friends who live in 
 the truth, and are concerned to fulfil their 
 religious duty, have often deep proving 
 seasons to pass through, before they come 
 to a clear discerning of the divine will with 
 respect to leaving their own habitations ; 
 and when they come at that, and travel 
 abroad in the service of the gospel, they 
 have also many and deep baptisms to pass 
 through. " The 29th, his natural strength 
 being much exhausted, he said, " It seems 
 to draw nearer the solemn close." On the 
 30th, the disorder much increased. In the 
 afternoon he said, " 1 have not been so 
 tried in any sickness in all my life ; although 
 1 never experienced so much of the love of 
 God in auy of my journies heretofore, as 1 
 have in this." 
 
67 
 
 On the 3 1st; about three o'clock in the 
 morning, being a little revived from the op- 
 pression and difficulty of breathing which 
 he had laboured under, he said, (C It is a 
 great favour to know that my Redeemer 
 lives, and because he lives, I live also." 
 Between nine and ten o'clock the physician 
 intimated his opinion, that he would not 
 continue much longer : asking what the 
 doctor said, and being informed, he replied 
 calmly, iC We must be resigned — we must 
 be resigned." This answer, and the com- 
 posed manner in which it was delivered, 
 affected the physican so much, that he ex- 
 pressed his surprize to see him, in such cir- 
 cumstances, so resigned : on which he said, 
 (C This is all we are taught to labour for — 
 we should perfect holiness in the fear of 
 God." About noon he said, triumphantly, 
 t( I am departing for heaven, from you all; 
 to the kingdom of God and of Christ." 
 
 His mind now seemed to be wrapped up 
 in divine love, continuing to speak of God, 
 of Christ, and of his kingdom ; and the last 
 words which could be distinctly understood,, 
 uttered (about two o'clock) in a melodious 
 voice, were, " I can sing the songs of Zion 
 and of Israel." Near seven in the evening 
 
68 
 
 he departed, being in the 68th year of his 
 age — a minister about forty-three years. 
 
 On the third of the* Second month, his 
 body was solemnly interred in the bury- 
 ing-ground of the Society professing with 
 Friends, in Pyrmont, in a plain manner, 
 which he had directed ; the spectators of 
 this, to them new scene, appearing to be 
 much affected on the solemn occasion. 
 
 Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of Friends 
 at Pyrmont in IVcstphalia, Germany, con- 
 cerning John Pemberton of Philadelphia, 
 in North America, 
 
 Seeing it is recorded in Holy Writ, and 
 confirmed by experience, that the " memory 
 of the just is blessed;" and our beloved 
 friend John Pemberton having, on a reli- 
 gious visit to Friends and friendly people 
 in this nation, finished his course, and laid 
 down his head in peace amongst us ; the 
 consideration of his religious service, and 
 the lively sense thereof remaining fresh and 
 as a good savour on our minds, has en- 
 gaged us to transmit a testimony concern- 
 this our beloved friend., to posterity. 
 
69 
 
 He was often led, in a manner unusual 
 in these parts, to go into unknown houses, 
 gather the family about him, and, after an 
 awful pause, to distribute a wholesome 
 doctrine, counsel and advice among them. 
 This manner, as it were (like in the Apos- 
 tles' days) to break the bread from house 
 to house, seemed sometimes at first to sur- 
 prize the people ; but when, after a short 
 while, their minds were overshadowed by 
 that invisible power which accompanied his 
 words, and the witness of truth in them was 
 reached, tears were often beheld to flow ; 
 and at parting, the unknown were observed 
 to take their leave of him as if well acquaint- 
 ed, in a tender and affecting manner. 
 
 His arrival at Pyrmont was on the 12th 
 of the Ninth month, and his stay amongst 
 us about four months ; during which time 
 he was mostly very poorly in health, but 
 nevertheless almost daily occupied in the 
 service of Truth ; for as his bodily health 
 permitted him, he not only attended punc- 
 tually our public and monthly meetings, 
 and visited Friends in their families, but 
 had also many private opportunities, and 
 several public meetings with the Towns- 
 people., which were very numerous, and 
 
70 
 
 wherein he was enabled to preach the free 
 gospel of Christ with divine authority ; so 
 that not only sometimes the whole assem- 
 bly seemed to be clothed with an awful re- 
 verence, but also the hearts of many were 
 moved, and the witness of God in them 
 reached, by his living testimony. At such 
 opportunities he seemed, to the admiration 
 of those who knew his weak constitution, 
 not to feel his bodily weakness at all, usu- 
 ally lifting up his voice as a strong youth, 
 to testify of the great love of God towards 
 mankind. 
 
 It was his principal concern to turn peo- 
 ple from darkness to light, and from the 
 power of satan to God ; endeavouring to 
 shew that God has given a measure of his 
 Spirit, and light or grace to all men, as a 
 talent, which he has placed in their hearts. 
 
 His ministry was in plainness of speech, 
 and attended with divine authority ; for his 
 words, whether they contained exhortation, 
 comfort, or reproof, reached the inward 
 states of those whom it concerned ; and he 
 has often spoke, both in our meetings and 
 at other opportunities, so exactly to the 
 state of individuals, that there was no doubt 
 left, but he was led by the unerring Spirit 
 
71 
 
 of truth ; and more especially in his parti- 
 cular service among us, as fellow-professors 
 of the same principles of that unchangeable 
 truth, for the promotion of which he spent 
 his life. 
 
 The solemn reverence of his waiting* spirit 
 appeared so manifest in his countenance, 
 that others who beheld him, were thereby- 
 invited to stillness ; and such as had a de- 
 sire of hearing words, were taught by his 
 example to turn their minds inward, to the 
 measure of grace in themselves ; shewing 
 that it is infinitely better to keep silent be- 
 fore the Lord, than to utter words that are 
 not accompanied with the life-giving and 
 baptising power of the Spirit ; which must 
 needs enliven them if they shall be truly 
 profitable. 
 
 After his return from Pyrmont he had re- 
 peatedly accesses of an inflammatory fever ; 
 and on the 23d of the Eleventh month, in 
 the evening, it seized him so suddenly with 
 a violent chill, that he was obliged to leave 
 the company of some friends, who were 
 come to see him, and go to bed. Next 
 morning the physician came to see hinr, 
 and at parting, wishing him that he might 
 get better ; he replied, <c My hope is in the 
 
72 
 
 Lord;" and he continued in a patient, re- 
 signed state of mind ; although to appear- 
 ance, in great pain of body. His mind 
 seemed to be totally free from temporal 
 concerns, and only occupied with objects 
 relating to everlasting truth : and particu- 
 larly, he seemed much concerned for the 
 welfare of the little Society of Friends in 
 this place, even to his very last moments. 
 
 A few days before his decease, his com- 
 panion mentioned to him a strait and diffi- 
 culty that Friends of Pyrmont were brought 
 under, by reason of several hundreds of 
 French emigrants who were come to take 
 up their winter quarters at, and to be bil- 
 letted on the inhabitants of Pyrmont. After 
 a little pause, he said in substance as fol- 
 lows : " Friends are often brought to the 
 strait and narrow gate ; and therefore it is 
 necessary and incumbent for them to act 
 in the counsel of best wisdom ; and if any 
 thing is imposed on them by the laws of 
 the country, and the authority of the ma- 
 gistrate, to suffer it in the meek and patient 
 spirit of Jesus." 
 
 His disorder having much increased, he 
 suffered exceedingly ; but kept remarkably 
 patient and resigned ; and being a little re- 
 
73 
 
 lievcd from the great oppression and diffi- 
 culty of breathing which he had laboured 
 under, he said, te It is a great favour to 
 know that my Redeemer lives, and because 
 he lives, I live also." This he expressed 
 about three o'clock in the morning of the 
 3 1st, being the day of his decease; and a 
 little after, he said to his companion and the 
 friend that assisted him, " You are very 
 kind, and I have been carefully nursed ; I 
 wish you may grow and increase in every 
 thing that is good, and become a spiritual 
 and holy house unto God." A while after, 
 a friend said to him, that it was pleasing and 
 encouraging to see him so much resigned ; 
 to which he replied nearly as follows, " Ah ! 
 we may see, miracles have not ceased ; 
 great and marvellous are his works ; he is 
 mighty to save and able to deliver to the 
 very uttermost, all those that trust in him ; 
 his ways are ways of wonder and past find- 
 ing out/' And about nine o'clock he said, 
 " The Spirit searches all things ; yea, the 
 deep things of God." Seeming to be much 
 exercised in his mind about the professors 
 of Truth at Pyrmont, he said, C( Some are 
 now very full of themselves, and are perse- 
 cuting the Lord's church; but it is a wrong 
 
 G 
 
n 
 
 spirit. There is a spirit that is doing the 
 church much harm ; but I am not of that 
 spirit, and it is best to avoid that spirit 
 which sets up for itself. They run from one 
 evil spirit to another; and it is a deceiving 
 spirit. My heart is heavy on account of 
 these things" A while after this, he said 
 again, ce The Spirit searches all things, yea, 
 the deep things of God/' And then, a little 
 after, he expressed himself nearly as follows : 
 <{ The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, 
 which opens the mysteries of God's king- 
 dom; but the wisdom of this world is fool- 
 ishness with God"— adding, but I don't 
 want to launch into many words, but to 
 bring into a sameness of soul." About 12 
 o'clock he said, in a triumphant manner, 
 **. I am departing for heaven, and from you 
 all, to the kingdom of God and of Christ." 
 After this he said, " You can prove these 
 things, whether they are agreeable to the 
 scriptures of God and of Christ, yea or nay." 
 And then he expressed in a weighty manner 
 nearly as follows : — ci It is not circumcision 
 nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. 
 Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the 
 word of God, which lives and abides for 
 ever." And a little after, " They who are 
 
75 
 
 justified, are justified by the faith of Jesus 
 Christ." And afterwards he earnestly said, 
 <( Woe unto the world because of offences.' ' 
 His mind seemed to be overcome with 
 Divine love, and his words were of God, and 
 of Christ and his kingdom : and the last that 
 could be distinctly understood, which he 
 uttered with a melodious voice, were these: 
 <c I can sing the songs of Zion and of 
 Israel ;" which is a demonstrative proof 
 that he had not followed cunningly devised 
 fables ; but the living substance of Truth 
 and true religion. 
 
 Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of Hor- 
 sham concerning Peter Yarn all, who 
 departed this life at his house in Byberry, 
 the 20th day of the Second month, 1798, 
 in the 45/A year of his age, after a short 
 illness. 
 
 This, our worthy friend, was born in the 
 city of Philadelphia, and was the son of our 
 esteemed friend Mordecai YarnaU ; from 
 whose precepts and example, in the time of 
 his youth, he widely departed, which was 
 cause of much grief to his pious father ; so 
 that he might justly be compared to the pro- 
 g2 
 
76 
 
 digal son, who wandered into a far country 
 and spent his portion in riotous living. In 
 the time of the late revolution he entered 
 into the army, where he continued a con- 
 siderable time, but being followed by the 
 tender reproofs of the Shepherd of Israel, 
 he was at length made willing to deny him- 
 self, take up his cross, and to become a 
 fool in the eyes of his former associates ; 
 and after enduring a season of conflict and 
 deep baptism, he was qualified for, and 
 called to the work of the ministry, in which 
 he became zealously engaged to promote 
 the cause of truth and righteousness. He 
 removed with his family within the compass 
 of our Monthly Meetings a few years since, 
 where he faithfully laboured in the work of 
 the ministry. And of him we think it may 
 be said, that he was iC fervent in spirit, 
 serving the Lord," and edifying his church ; 
 willing to spend and to be spent in his 
 cause : to whom he often acknowledged 
 his great obligations, in plucking him as a 
 brand out of the burning; having frequent- 
 ly in his testimony to declare of the Lord's 
 long suffering, tender, and gracious dealings 
 with him ; and to invite the prodigal sons 
 to return to the father's house, where there 
 
n 
 
 is bread enough and to spare (which he had 
 abundantly experienced) and to rest no 
 longer satisfied with feeding upon husks. 
 Much of his time was given up in travelling 
 abroad to promote truth and righteousness 
 amongst mankind. He frequently had re- 
 ligious meetings appointed amongst those 
 not of our society, and was often favoured 
 to lift up his voice, in the power and au- 
 thority of truth, to publish the gospel of 
 salvation — to the awakening of the careless, 
 and to the encouragement of the weary 
 traveller Zion-ward. Me several times 
 visited most of the eastern and southern 
 States. In his last visit to the former, in a 
 letter to a friend, he thus wrote : " I have 
 been under a close apprehension since I first 
 came to New- England, that if spared to get 
 home (which perhaps may be granted) I 
 should never have it in my power to be 
 here more." 
 
 Some of his last expressions being re- 
 tained, are nearly as follow. 
 
 In the afternoon of the 14th of the Second 
 month being taken very ill, he thus ex- 
 pressed himself to his wife : " My dear, I 
 dont know that 1 ever felt mvself more 
 poorly than at this time. I feel no anxiety 
 g3 
 
78 
 
 on my own account, but thine, and the 
 children's, and the precious cause of truth : 
 if my gracious Master has any thing more 
 for me to do, I should be willing; to be 
 raised again ; but have seen that I shall be 
 a man of affliction as long as I am con- 
 tinued — the Lord's will be done." Some 
 time after, desiring his wife to sit by him, 
 he said, "Heaven is a glorious place ; into 
 which I have no doubt of an entrance, if I 
 should be removed at this time. I acknow- 
 ledge it is awful to think of appearing 
 before the bar of the just Judge : but on 
 looking at it, I feel my mind centred in un- 
 interrupted quiet." Towards evening, 
 mentioned he thought of trying to sit up, 
 and have the family to sit down together 
 with him, which was his frequent practice. 
 
 15th — Being queried with respecting 
 sending for a physician, he said, his depend- 
 ence never had been upon outward phy- 
 sicians, but believed they might sometimes 
 be a means of giving some temporary relief 
 to the poor body. 
 
 16th — The physician being come to see 
 him, he imparted to him that his dependance 
 was on the Lord Jesus alone, not on medi- 
 cine; but submitted to those about him in 
 
79 
 
 taking it. On perceiving' his wife to be af- 
 fected, he said, ce My dear, thou must give 
 me up to the Lord, who certainly will do 
 right. May our dwellings be beside the 
 still waters. Mayest thou be enabled to 
 keep there in the deepest proving seasons. " 
 Some time after, said, ' ( O the preciousness 
 of the unity of the Spirit ! I never felt my 
 dear friends nearer to me, I think, at any 
 time ; and I thought I never felt a greater 
 flow of love towards them universally, than 
 when in our meeting last, although I was 
 silent. 
 
 1 7th — A friend coming to see him, he 
 said, iC I have been sensible of many infir- 
 mities ; but I believe I have an evidence 
 that my gracious Master has blotted out my 
 transgressions." Some hours after, address- 
 ing his daughter, he said, " If I should be 
 taken away now, I am apprehensive I shall 
 go to rest, though I am a poor weak crea- 
 ture, and have nothing to boast of. I have 
 been concerned for thee and the rest of my 
 children, and prayed for you since I have 
 been on this sick bed." After recommend- 
 ing obedience and gratitude to her observ- 
 ance, he added, V I desire thou mayest so 
 live, that the Lord may bless thee : and to 
 
80 
 
 walk in his fear is the only way to obtain it." 
 After speaking of the weight of his disorder, 
 he said, ie The Lord Jesus, my Saviour, is 
 near, whatever becomes of this poor body. 
 I hope my gracious Master will give me 
 patience to wait his time." Speaking to the 
 children, he said, cc O, my dear children ! 
 love, fear, and serve God." He divers 
 times addressed them nearly after this sort, 
 when coming to speak to him — " Now, 
 dear children, you see the need of preparing 
 for such a time as this : it would be mise- 
 rable indeed, if I did not feel an easy mind." 
 " O, the goodness of the blessed Jesus !" 
 was frequently his language. He often 
 appeared to be in fervent supplication, when 
 very little could be understood, but " Lord, 
 thy will, not mine, be done." 
 
 A little before his departure, being asked 
 how he was, said, " In the Lord's keeping : 
 1 have that evidence." He then took an 
 affectionate farewell of his wife, and quietly 
 expired. 
 
SI 
 
 Testimony of Motherkill Monthly Meeting 
 concerning Philena Lay. 
 
 This, our valued friend, being early de- 
 prived of her parents, was brought up by 
 an endeared relative, in Accomack county, 
 Virginia, and educated in the principles of 
 Friends, which became the religion of her 
 judgment. She was preserved in great 
 circumspection of conduct when young hi 
 years, although at the distance of sixty 
 miles from any meeting or friends, except 
 the family she resided with ; who were con- 
 cerned to support meetings in their house 
 twice a week.A When arrived to mature 
 age, she became a member of our religious 
 Society, and the wife of Baptist Lay, nf 
 Sussex county, a member of Cold Spring 
 Meeting; which station she occupied with 
 discretion and tenderness, as also in her ma- 
 ternal care towards her offspring. She was 
 a valuable neighbour, being particularly at- 
 tentive to the sick, and remarkably exem- 
 plary in a persevering attendance of meet- 
 ings, and solid deportment therein ; a great 
 part of her time having to attend Monthly 
 Meetings at forty and fifty miles distance, 
 
82 
 
 and the Quarterly Meeting near one hun- 
 dred ; yet she generally attended, except 
 some material prevention occurred, and oft 
 times under bodily infirmity ; that simpli- 
 city and purity which is characteristic of the 
 Lamb's followers, being much the clothing 
 of her spirit. And we believe she has now 
 exchanged a state of sorrow and mourning 
 for one of joy unspeakable. 
 
 She appeared, in a few words, at times,, 
 in public testimony, and her offerings being 
 owned, as arising from the Spring of Life^ 
 she was recommended as a minister ; which 
 proving an encouragement to her diffident 
 mind, she experienced a considerable en- 
 largement; her ministry being sound and 
 edifying. She was several times acceptably 
 engaged in the weighty service of visiting 
 families. 
 
 She was taken ill on her way to the Spring 
 Meeting; and after some amendment, pro- 
 ceeded, and reached to the latter part there- 
 of. On her return, she was again attacked 
 with the former complaint, wherein she ap- 
 peared resigned ; observing, she had never 
 seen, since her leaving home, that she should 
 return thither. 
 
 For some time before her close, her mind 
 
83 
 
 seemed turned, in sweet ejaculations, to the 
 Highest ; at times breaking out more intel- 
 ligibly, " O dear Father ! my precious and 
 only One." She dropped many expressions 
 •edifying to those who attended her; and 
 when nearly losing the powers of speech, 
 the language of Holy, Holy, Holy Father 
 was, in a voice scarcely intelligible, fre* 
 quently uttered ; gradually resigning her 
 breath and spirit to him who gave them, in 
 the fiftieth year of her age, the 15th of the 
 Fourth month, 1797, being a minister about 
 eight years. 
 
 Testimony from New Garden Monthly 
 Meeting, in Chester County, conceiving 
 Hannah Lindley. 
 
 This, our beloved friend, was born in 
 New Garden, in the Fifth month, 1755. 
 Her parents, James and Rebecca Miller, 
 were Friends in good esteem. As she grew 
 up to the state of a young woman, she met 
 \vith various trials; and has often been 
 heard, with thankfulness, to acknowledge 
 the loving kindness of her heavenly Father, 
 in preserving her. About the nineteenth 
 year of her age she was married to William 
 
84 
 
 Miller, of New Garden aforesaid, entered 
 into the cares of a large family, and ap- 
 proved herself well qualified for such a 
 charge : her deportment and conversation 
 being grave and solid, yet affable and in- 
 structive. Carefully improving the talents 
 she was favoured with, she became qualified 
 for service in the church ; and after many 
 baptising seasons, in much diffidence, she 
 had to declare unto others what the Lord 
 had done for her soul. 
 
 During her widowhood she experienced 
 various trials. She was afterwards married 
 to our friend Jacob Lindley; was a diligent 
 attender of our religious meetings, and 
 careful in making way for her family to 
 attend them also: and frequently on the 
 afternoon of First-day, would collect her 
 children and others under her direction, and 
 promote the reading of the holy scriptures. 
 As she sat in meeting, the gravity and com- 
 posure of her countenance and becoming 
 manner of sitting, bespoke deep inward 
 recollection and divine engagement : her 
 public testimony was acceptable, being 
 seasoned with a lively savour; in suppli- 
 cation deep and fervent. She sympathized 
 with her fellow creatures under altiiction, 
 
85 
 
 having' at times remarked, {C When 1 have 
 gone only to pay formal visits, I have re- 
 turned empty and barren; but when I have 
 given attention to the small intimations pre- 
 sented to my view j to visit the afflicted, or 
 to administer some relief to the necessitous, 
 1 have been favoured to return with a ca 1 i 
 and peaceful mind.'' 
 
 In the Ninth month last, after a time of 
 close exercise, she apprehended it would 
 conduce most to her peace to attend the 
 yearly meeting in Philadelphia, it being at 
 that time, [1798] an awful dispensation of 
 sickness and mortality in that city ; and in 
 (he opening of the meeting of ministers and 
 elders on Seventh-day, she was favoured 
 in solemn supplication, to the comfort of 
 Friends present. 
 
 During her stay in the city, she more than 
 once observed, that she had the reward of 
 sweet peace in performing what she be- 
 lieved was required of her ; having said to 
 her husband, before they left home, ec If 
 thou and I, and many more should fall in 
 the attempt, the sacrifice is small compared 
 with the testimony." Shortly after she re- 
 turned home, being seized with the fever 
 then so mortal in the city, she evinced much 
 n 
 
86 
 
 Christian fortitude ; and being queried with 
 how she felt as to the event, replied, <( As 
 to life or death, I have not seen ; with re- 
 spect to outward things, it might appear 
 desirable to stay some time longer, but the 
 Lord can make it easy, and enable me to 
 resign/* At another time, being asked how 
 she felt, answered, cc My mind is preserved 
 perfectly quiet and calm, which I esteem 
 an unspeakable favour/' Some time after, 
 mention was made of a person who had 
 lately passed through some afflictive sea- 
 sons ; she said, " Poor mortals are dull 
 scholars, not willing to learn : though the 
 Almighty administers dispensations like 
 judgments, yet it may be in great mercy, 
 as he leaves nothing undone, in order to 
 save the soul of his creature man." 
 
 Continuing in a sweet composure of mind, 
 after about five days illness, she finished her 
 course on the 3rd day of the Tenth month, 
 1798, in the 44th year of her age. The re- 
 membrance of her innocent life and meek 
 spirit lives with us, and her memorial re- 
 mains to be sweet and precious to many 
 minds. 
 
87 
 
 Testimony of Chester Monthly Meeting con- 
 cerning James Em len, who zvas horn and 
 educated in the City of Philadelphia. 
 
 It having pleased the Lord, in unsearch- 
 able wisdom, to remove from works to re- 
 wards this our beloved friend, who lived a 
 number of years in near union and reli- 
 gious fellowship with us ; and through the 
 sweet and powerful influence of the Spirit 
 of Truth, (the extendings whereof he hath 
 been heard to say, he felt at divers times, 
 when very young, in an extraordinary man- 
 ner) he was favoured to decline the gayeties 
 and vain amusements of the world. 
 
 About the twenty-second year of his age, 
 he married and settled at Middletow n ; and 
 being adorned in an eminent degree, with 
 humility, meekness, gravity, and true self- 
 denial, he became gradually qualified for 
 extensive usefulness in the church, filling 
 with great propriety the important station 
 of an elder; his passions being so restrain- 
 ed, that we believe few have exceeded him 
 in an evenness of temper through the vicis- 
 situdes of life. In the year 1793 his virtu- 
 ous and truly religious helpmate was re- 
 moved by death, whereby the care of their 
 H 2 
 
88 
 
 young children devolved upon him, to 
 whom he was a very affectionate and ten- 
 der parent, though firm in restraining them 
 from undue liberties in dress, company, &c. 
 it being almost his invariable practice (when 
 at home) on the afternoon of First-days, to 
 have them collected about him, reading the 
 scriptures of Truth and other religious 
 books, or exercising and improving their 
 mental faculties; feeling for and embracing 
 proper seasons of silent retirement with his 
 family, and for the expression of such coun- 
 sel a<i impressed his mind under the power 
 of Divine love. He devoted much of his 
 time to the service of religion. 
 
 He attended the opening of our yearly 
 meeting at Philadelphia, in the Ninth month 
 1798, and on the 4th day of the same week, 
 felt symptoms of the awful contagion, then 
 spreading in the city. During his illness 
 he expressed, in substance, that it was the 
 Lord's will ; and that he was perfectly re- 
 signed thereto, and felt in such a cairn, 
 quiet frame of mind, that he did not stand 
 in need of any human consolation." So 
 ended his pious and exemplary life, on the 
 3rd of the Tenth month, 1798, aged about 
 38 years. 
 
89 
 
 Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of Had- 
 donfield concerning Joshua Evens, a mi- 
 nister. 
 
 He was born in the year 1731, and de- 
 scended from religious parents, from whom 
 he received a pious education whilst young; 
 notwithstanding which, and the many fa- 
 vours of our gracious and merciful Father, 
 he gave way to a libertine spirit, which, 
 united with an inclination for unprofitable 
 company, and practices consequent there- 
 on, he became captivated by vanity and 
 folly, and widely strayed from the path of 
 rectitude, to the wounding of his own 
 peace ; nevertheless, being visited with 
 sickness, and not expecting to recover, he 
 says, cc My prayers were for mercy ; which 
 was so far granted, that I felt willing to 
 die, and made many covenants to amend 
 my ways ; but as health increased, I went 
 into my old liberties, straying hither and 
 thither, full and empty, joyful and sorrow- 
 ful, having forsaken the living waters." 
 
 But after his marriage, in the year 1753, 
 he was again favoured with a renewed visi- 
 tation of heavenly regard, which, joining in 
 with, he became weaned from his old as- 
 h 3 
 
90 
 
 sociates, and with renewed dedication of 
 heart, resigned himself to the guidance of 
 his great and good Master ; under whose 
 influence, he was led to say, cc My love to 
 God so overbalanced lower enjoyments, I 
 seemed as a pilgrim who had none inherit- 
 ance here, and had a foresight of an un- 
 trodden path, or a lonely way to walk in." 
 Being led (more particularly in his latter 
 days) to circumscribe his temporal views, 
 and to confine them within the narrow 
 limits of a truly self-denying life, he was 
 engaged, both by precept and example, to 
 enforce the duty of the Christian, in an 
 humble walking before men. 
 
 His ministry was sound ; and being ac- 
 companied with gospel authority, had a 
 tendency to reach the witness in many 
 minds, which opened his way for plain 
 dealing with the rebellious and gainsayers. 
 
 He was many years deeply exercised on 
 account of the enslaved Africans; and being 
 engaged to plead their cause, as opportu- 
 nity offered, he was led to say, that he never 
 received a greater reward than for his faith- 
 fulness therein. 
 
 During several years of the latter part of 
 his life, he was assiduously engaged in visit- 
 
91 
 
 ing the churches on this continent; and 
 upon his return from his last journey,, he 
 said to his wife, that it seemed as though 
 his labours in America were closed, and in 
 a few days after, viz. on the morning* of the 
 ?th day of the Seventh month 1798, he arose 
 early, and went into the field to labour, but 
 feeling himself unwell, speedily returned 
 into the house and retired to bed, where he 
 expired in a few minutes, without any ap- 
 parent conflict of nature., in the 68th year 
 of his age. 
 
 Testimony fromTkird- Haven Monthly Meet- 
 ing, in Maryland, concerning James Har- 
 ris. 
 
 As this our beloved friend was, for his 
 piety and humble walking, uprightness, and 
 regularity of conduct and conversation, wor- 
 thy to be remembered amongst the faithful 
 in his day, we think it right to give forth 
 the following testimony concerning him. 
 
 He had his education in the way of that 
 called the Church of England, and was in 
 the early part of his life convinced, by the 
 operation of Truth in his own mind., of the 
 
92 
 
 necessity of living a godly, righteous, and 
 sober life ; but did not make much progress 
 in the path of true religion until near the 
 thirtieth year of his age ; about which time, 
 attending more closely to the witness in 
 himself, he joined a pious people, distin- 
 guished by the name of Nicholites. As he 
 was favoured with a spiritual discerning and 
 stability in the Truth beyond many, he at 
 length became secretly exercised in spirit 
 respecting their situation., from an appre- 
 hension that a junction with the Society of 
 Friends would tend to mutual advantage 
 in the way of Truth ; and under the weight 
 and exercise thereof, was sometimes led to 
 mention it to his fellow professors ; but the 
 opposition which appeared in some, to- 
 gether with his own fears and discourage- 
 ments prevailing at times, we believe caused 
 him deep wading for some years ; but 
 through the continued favours of divine re- 
 gard, from time to time manifested in his 
 own mind, and the help of the spirits of 
 brethren and sisters under a similar exer- 
 cise, he became more and more confirmed 
 that it was the Lord's work: until at length 
 way opening, he, with a majority of that 
 Society in these parts., requested to be re- 
 
9,3 
 
 reived into membership with Friends; most, 
 of whom, some time after, were accordingly 
 united to us ; and continuing to exercise 
 his gift to satisfaction, he became an ap- 
 proved minister amongst us, being accom- 
 panied with convincing energy and power. 
 
 Having, we believe, passed through many 
 proving seasons in the course of his pil- 
 grimage, and we think it may be truly said, 
 come to a firm establishment on the foun- 
 dation which standeth sure, it pleased di- 
 vine Goodness to remove him from his 
 church militant, after an illness of about 
 three weeks, which he bore with remark- 
 able patience and resignation to the divine 
 will — expressing, that if the Lord had any 
 further service for him to do, he desired 
 to be raised to do it ; and if not, he was re- 
 signed either in life or death — that his out- 
 ward affairs were settled nearly to his mind. 
 
 One night being in great pain, a friend 
 said, he hoped he had comfort in his affiic- 
 tion — " Ah, said he, if it was not for that, 
 what a poor creature should I be ; for that 
 is worthy to be sought after above all other 
 considerations." A young man standing 
 by his bed-side, he said to him, Si My great 
 desire for thee is, that thou mayest prepare 
 
94 
 
 for such a time as this." At another time 
 he said, " I have been greatly favoured, 
 that I have nothing to fear beyond the 
 grave ; for I have felt a great change 
 wrought by the power of divine love. ,, At 
 another time, being under great pain of 
 body, said, " Lord, grant me patience to 
 endure thy dispensation. O welcome death ! 
 Lord, thy kingdom come ! thy kingdom 
 come ! " At another time he called his 
 only, son to him, and desired him and all 
 his children, to remember the poor, and be 
 kind to them for his sake; in particular the 
 poor tenants, not to deal hard with them ; 
 for they come hard by what they get, and 
 the year had been difficult; nor distress the 
 poor for money due to him ; and desired 
 that all his children might remember the 
 example he had set before them, that it 
 might be a blessing to them — And seeing 
 them round him, expressed a great desire 
 that they might seek the Lord for then- 
 portion above all other enjoyments ; " for/' 
 said he, " if I had these rooms full of gold, 
 and the work of reformation not expe- 
 rienced, what could it do for mc? it would 
 help to make me the more miserable ; for 
 1 have thought, sometimes, that 1 was as 
 
95 
 
 rich as heart could wish, and I feci nothing 
 but love, and the smiles of the heavenly 
 Father's countenance upon me ; and what 
 more can I desire?" further observing, that 
 as there was one of them who was likely to 
 have a numerous offspring, he much desired 
 she might seek divine strength, whereby 
 to be made able to raise up a family or 
 godly children, and prove a blessing to 
 them, both in time and in eternity. Seeing 
 his wife sorrowing, he desired her not to 
 grieve after him, but to continue faithful ; 
 that when her time here should be no 
 longer, she might be happy in the end : 
 and said, that if he thought he should live 
 but one hour, his soul would rejoice ; but 
 added, " not my will, but thine be done ;" 
 abundantly manifesting through the course 
 of his affliction, a becoming resignation 
 either in life or death. 
 
 At another time, being asked if he would 
 take a little wine and water, he replied no, 
 he was waiting for that which was without 
 mixture. His weakness increasing, that he 
 could hardly speak to be understood,, he 
 said, he hoped the Lord would take the 
 will for the deed, for he had not strength 
 to express what was upon his mind — and 
 
96 « 
 
 quietly resigned his breath to him who 
 gave it, on the 5th of the Tenth month, 
 1799,, aged about 66 years : and we doubt 
 not but he rests from his labours, and his 
 works they follow him. 
 
 Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of Phi- 
 ladelphia for the Northern District, eon- 
 cetninsc Samuel Emlen. 
 
 "S 
 
 He was born in Philadelphia on the 15th 
 of the First month., called March,, in the 
 year 1729-3(3, O. S. of religious parents. 
 From his own account, he had in his youth- 
 ful days frequent temptations to wander 
 from the path of virtue., but through the 
 pious care of his friends, and more espe- 
 cially by a secret restraining power, he was 
 happily preserved from gross evils. As he 
 advanced to manhood, his love for the 
 Truth, and those who were living examples 
 of its efficacy, increasing, he accompanied 
 our friend Michael Lighlfoot in a religious 
 visit to Virginia and part of North Carolina. 
 About the 26th year of his age he embarked 
 for Europe, and accompanying our friend 
 A. Farrington in his religious services in 
 
07 
 
 Ireland,, lue first appeared in the ministry 
 at Cailow, and several times afterwards in 
 that nation and in England, in a few words, 
 with much acceptance. 
 
 He visited, in Truth's service, many parts 
 of this continent ; once the Island of Barba- 
 does, and seven times crossed the ocean to 
 Europe. Beside England, he twice visited 
 Holland, and was several times in Ireland ; 
 endearing himself in all places, and leaving 
 many seals of his ministry where he labour- 
 ed ; being a lively instance of the efficacy 
 of that grace which he preached to others; 
 not using the word of God deceitfully, but 
 manifesting its power by meekness, humi- 
 lity, and love unfeigned. His knowledge 
 of several languages ; his peculiar gift in 
 applying portions of the sacred writings; 
 with an unaffected, engaging deportment 
 and affability of manners, frequently made 
 way for him among the great of this world, 
 and with foreigners: when in company 
 with such, his greatest concern was to im- 
 press upon their minds the superior benefits 
 to be derived from a life of holiness, and the 
 comparative emptiness and vanity of this 
 world's fading honours and enjoyments; 
 often declaring that he was neither bigot 
 
98 
 
 nor sectarian, but a lover of all who loved 
 the Lord Jesus in sincerity : to these, of 
 whatever class or rank, he was a nursing 
 father, speaking a word in season, to their 
 comfort. Being himself a great lover of 
 the plain way of truth, he was often led, 
 in a close and searching manner, to reprove 
 the libertine professors who had departed, 
 or such as were in danger of departing from 
 under its safe and simple guidance, into the 
 vain fashions, customs, or opinions of the 
 world, or into an unbounded pursuit of its 
 fading riches ; yet an encourager of honest 
 industry, pursued within the sacred limits 
 which Truth prescribes. 
 
 He was peculiarly gifted for consolatory 
 visits to the afflicted in body or in mind, 
 which he often manifested in the families 
 of Friends, wherever he was, without dis- 
 tinction ; and frequently amongst those not 
 of our religious society ; and this employ- 
 ment idled up a great part of his time. 
 
 In meetings, his deportment was solid and 
 instructive, his delivery clear and compre- 
 hensive, an holy unction attending his Gos- 
 pel labours. 
 
 In Friends' families he often appeared to 
 take but little interest in the conversation, 
 
99 
 
 except when it turned on religious subjects, 
 he then became animated, manifesting by 
 godly converse, and pious devotion to his 
 Master's cause, (to the edification and in- 
 struction of those who were with him) that 
 his chief delight was in the law of the Lord, 
 and his meditations therein both frequent 
 and fervent. 
 
 He was naturally of a tender and delicate 
 habit from his youth, which gradually in- 
 creased upon him, so that in his declining 
 years he suffered much bodily pain ; yet in 
 the intervals, he was as lively in spirit and 
 industrious in the cause of righteousness as 
 ever; knowing, as he expressed, that he 
 must shortly put off this earthly tabernacle. 
 
 In his last visit to Europe, he was inca- 
 pable of travelling much, yet his services in 
 families and in the church, in Lancashire 
 and Dublin, to which he was principally 
 confined, were very comfortable and edi- 
 fying to Friends, and appeared to set the 
 last sea! to his abundant labours in England 
 and Ireland. 
 
 Sometime after his return home in 1797, 
 he gradually Reclined in his health, yet, as 
 usual, attended most of the meetings in 
 this city, filling up the intermediate tim\ 
 
100 
 
 principally in religious and brotherly visits 
 to the families of Friends. In the last meet- 
 ing which he attended at the north meeting 
 house, he enlarged in much Gospel autho- 
 rity, to the edification and. comfort of the 
 audience, on the efficacy of that faith which 
 overcometh the world, and is the saints' 
 victory. 
 
 About the middle of the Twelfth month, 
 1799, his complaint returning with in- 
 creasing frequency, he continued very ten- 
 der to his children and others about him, 
 saying, ff I deem their sympathy and af- 
 fectionate attendance upon me, a blessing 
 from heaven." During his waking hours, 
 the attributes of God, whom he had long 
 served, were almost his perpetual theme : 
 he was frequent in declaration of his power, 
 of his mercy and goodness to his soul,, and 
 in acknowledgments of the rich consolations 
 with which his mind was supported, re- 
 peating, si Their sins and their iniquities 
 will I remember no more ;" and in much 
 brokenness of spirit, " Ye shall have a song 
 as in the night when an holy solemnity is 
 kept, and gladness of heart as when one 
 goeth with a pipe, to come into the moun- 
 tain of the Lord, to the mighty one of 
 
101 
 
 Israel. O, the tears of holy joy which flow 
 down my cheeks ; sing praises, high praises, 
 unto my God — I feel nothing in my way ; 
 although my conduct through life has not 
 been, in every respect, so guarded as it 
 might have been, yet the main bent of my 
 mind has been to serve thee, O God, who 
 art glorious in holiness, fearful in praises. 
 I have, I am sure, loved godliness and 
 hated iniquity ; that my petitions to the 
 throne of Grace have been accompanied 
 with faith.' * 
 
 The daily calls and sympathy of his 
 friends, during his short confinement to his 
 house, were very comfortable to him. 
 
 On First-day the 29th of the Twelfth 
 month, he was cheerful and pleasant in con- 
 versation, and dropped many affectionate 
 expressions respecting his dear friends in 
 England and Ireland, naming a number of 
 them, with fervent breathings to the God of 
 all grace for their preservation and increase 
 in the Truth ; desiring a friend sitting by, 
 to mention in his letters to some, that he 
 felt a portion of that love for them which 
 was stronger than death. He went to bed 
 about ten o'clock in the evening, lay awhile 
 without pain, fell comfortably to sleep for 
 i3 
 
102 
 
 about an hour, when he awoke ; and being 
 seized very violently, and in a manner more 
 alarming to his family than at any time 
 before, two of his near connections were 
 called in, as also a physician, when he took 
 an affectionate leave of his family. As 
 there was no prospect of benefit from fur- 
 ther medical aid, he wished that nothing 
 more might be attempted, but inclined to 
 lay as quiet as possible, saying, " All I 
 want is heaven; Lord, receive my spirit;" 
 and desired those about him should unite 
 in prayer that he might be preserved in 
 patience to the end ; " my pain is great ; 
 my God, grant me patience, humble de- 
 pending patience. Call upon me in the 
 day of trouble, I will deliver thee, and thou 
 shalt glorify me;" and repeated with great, 
 fervency a considerable part of the Lord's 
 prayer, and " Oh, how precious a thing it 
 is to feel the Spirit itself bearing witness 
 with our spirits, that we are his." After 
 which, C{ Oh ! this soul is an awful thing : 
 I feel it so ; you that hear me mind it is an 
 awful thing to die : the invisible world, 
 how awful !" His end now fast approach- 
 ing, he said, " I entreat that nothing be 
 done to ine, except what I may request ; 
 
103 
 
 that my mind may not be diverted ; that 
 my whole mind may be centred in aspi- 
 ration to the Throne of Grace." — Shortly 
 after, " Almighty Father, come quickly, if 
 it be thy holy will, and receive my spirit.' ' 
 He lay awhile, the conflict being apparent- 
 ly over, but feeling again the clogs of mor- 
 tality, he said, in a low voice, " I thought 
 1 was gone/' and added, " Christ Jesus, 
 receive my spirit/ ' which were nearly his 
 last words ; soon after which he quietly 
 departed, we humbly trust in peace with 
 God and all men, about half-past four 
 o clock in the morning of the 30th of 
 Twelfth month, 1799. 
 
 Testimony of Motherkill Monthly Meeting 
 concerning Warner Mifflin. 
 
 This, our beloved friend, was born in 
 the county of Accomack, on the eastern 
 shore of Virginia : being, in his early years, 
 much separated from the society of Friends, 
 except his father's family, through great 
 exposure he partook of some of the levities 
 incident to youthful life, yet was in good 
 measure preserved from gross immorality. 
 
104 
 
 When arrived to man's estate, he married 
 and settled within the limits of this meeting. 
 Through humble submission to the opera- 
 tion of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus, he 
 was made instrumental in advancing the 
 testimony of Truth in divers respects; and 
 being exemplary in simplicity and mode- 
 ration, was careful to bring up his children 
 agreeably thereto. As he earnestly endea- 
 voured to promote the cause of truth and 
 righteousness in his day, he grew in solid 
 experience, and was enabled to fill up his 
 portion of duty in the church as an Elder, 
 seeking with a tender watchful care, the 
 welfare of all; being a valuable standard- 
 bearer in the maintenance of our Christian 
 discipline, in its various branches. He was 
 careful in maintaining, with becoming 
 meekness, a testimony against war, and the 
 spirit of it ; and united with his brethren in 
 faithful labour for the support of our testi- 
 mony against the common use of spirituous 
 liquors, his exemplary conduct wherein, 
 had a reaching effect, tending to promote 
 moderation among his fellow members and 
 others. Being eminently qualified as a 
 peace-maker, he was frequently made use 
 of in settling differences; but that which 
 
105 
 
 conspicuously marked his character, was 
 his disinterested labours and dedication of 
 his time and talents in advocating the 
 cause, and promoting the liberation of the 
 oppressed Black People. After releasing a 
 considerable number who were in his own 
 possession, and being successfully engaged 
 in reclaiming many of his fellow members 
 from the iniquitous pr actice of Slave-hold- 
 ing, he frequently expostulated on that 
 subject with rulers and men in power, in 
 Christian boldness, influenced, as we be- 
 lieve, with wisdom from above ; endeavour- 
 ing to dissuade them from encouraging the 
 unrighteous traffic, pointing out its cruelly 
 oppressive effects upon the lives and liberties 
 of our fellow men. 
 
 He was diligent and exemplary in the at- 
 tendance of our religious meetings, wherein 
 he manifested a lively faith, encouraging to 
 others. 
 
 His last journey was from an apprehen- 
 sion of duty to attend the Yearly Meeting 
 of Philadelphia, it being an awful season, 
 through the prevalence of an infectious and 
 mortal fever there. It was though* he took 
 the disease, as he became ill not long after 
 his return, and remained about six days 
 
106 
 
 under great bodily sickness, much preserved 
 in calmness and quietude, and departed this 
 life on the 1 6th day of the Tenth month, 
 1798, aged about 53 years. 
 
 Testimony of Salem Monthly Meeting con- 
 cerning Ebenezer Miller. 
 
 This, our beloved friend, was born of 
 religiously inclined parents, of the Indepen- 
 dent profession. He was, in his minority, 
 with his father, received into membership 
 with Friends ; and by submitting to the 
 cross of Christ, and continuing faithful to 
 what he believed to be his duty, a dispen- 
 sation of the gospel ministry was committed 
 to him, and being faithful thereto, witnessed 
 a growth therein. 
 
 About the year 1770 he removed from 
 Greenwich, and settled within the limits of 
 Salem particular meeting: his diligent at- 
 tendance of religious meetings, humble 
 waiting therein, together with his gospel 
 labours, were truly exemplary and profit- 
 able. He was a diffident man, remarkably 
 favoured with the clothing of a meek and 
 quiet spirit ; a nursing father to the reli- 
 
107 
 
 giously exercised travailer; an affectionate 
 husband and parent; a kind friend and 
 neighbour. 
 
 In the latter part of his life, he suffered 
 much bodily infirmity, and was for several 
 months generally confined to his room ; 
 during which he manifested much quietness 
 of mind, and submission to the divine will ; 
 expressing to some who visited him, that 
 his love for Friends, and desire for their 
 prosperity, was as great during his bodily 
 weakness as at any period of his life. In 
 his retired hours, he was frequently in a state 
 of mourning, expressing that the low and 
 declining state of many Friends from that 
 lively exercise of mind arising from sincere 
 devotion to serve the Lord, was cause of 
 deep sorrow to him ; and that it was sealed 
 to his understanding, that truth and right- 
 eousness would have shined with much 
 greater brightness, had it not been for the 
 captivating influence of the love of this 
 world, and the alluring prospects thereof; 
 from a sense of which, he was frequently 
 observed fervently engaged in supplication 
 to the Lord, that he would be pleased 
 more and more to wean the minds of Friends 
 
108 
 
 from the things of this world, and gather 
 them to the true fold of rest. 
 
 A few days before his decease, he said, 
 for some time past he had felt an earnest 
 desire that Friends of the neighbourhood 
 should sit with him, at his house, on the 
 afternoon of First-day ; in which meeting 
 he was enabled, in a tender affectionate 
 manner, to bear a lively testimony ; en- 
 couraging Friends to faithfulness in their 
 several stations, expressing his unshaken 
 belief in the all-sufficiency of that. Power 
 which had hitherto sustained him, and that 
 he " had not followed cunningly devised 
 fables/' but had the evidence of a well- 
 grounded hope of an admission " into the 
 joys of his Lord." 
 
 On being helped to bed, he expressed his 
 sense that his time would be short, and that 
 he had great satisfaction in the present op- 
 portunity. A day or two after, he said he 
 felt quite easy, and believed he was excused 
 from further labour : adding, that his mind 
 was much centred in a desire for an easy 
 and quiet release from the body ; which was 
 mercifully granted to him on the 11th day 
 of the Seventh month, 1800, aged 75 years 
 — a minister about 35. 
 
109 
 
 Testimony of the Western Quarterly Meet- 
 ing concerning Abraham Gibbons. 
 
 It remains with us an incumbent duty 
 to give some memorial concerning" this our 
 beloved friend, late a member of Sadsbury 
 Monthly Meeting in Lancaster county, and 
 of this Quarterly Meeting', who, though 
 dead, his pious example and faithful la- 
 bours yet speak. 
 
 He was a man endowed with a good na- 
 tural understanding, which, by a humble 
 submission to the sanctifying power of 
 Truth, qualified him to become an useful 
 Elder in the church ; which station he filled 
 several years, until a dispensation of Gospel 
 ministry was committed to him ; in the ex- 
 ercise whereof, he approved himself a faith- 
 ful testimony-bearer for the Prince of Peace. 
 His ministry was sound and convincing, 
 and often did distil as the dew upon the 
 mourners and tender plants in the heritage 
 of God, being much devoted to the work 
 whereunto he was called. 
 
 In the time of the late commotion in this 
 land, he evinced the soundness of his faith, 
 by patiently enduring, divers times, the 
 spoiling of his goods, on account of his tcs- 
 
110 
 
 timony against war and bloodshed ; he was 
 also much engaged to strengthen the hands 
 and confirm the faith of those who were 
 ready to faint in their minds, and was often 
 led to expostulate with the rulers and men 
 in power, in that day of close trial, so as 
 mostly to gain their assent lo the truth of 
 his testimony. 
 
 With such as were under sufferings for 
 the testimony of a good conscience, he was 
 a tender and sympathizing friend ; and often 
 visited those in prison, to their comfort and 
 refreshment : thus lie laboured, and endured 
 hardness, as a good solaier of Jesus Christ, 
 and approved himself a pillar in the Lord's 
 house — an Elder, worthy of double honour. 
 In the discipline of the church he was ex- 
 tensively useful. The closing part of his 
 pilgrimage here on earth was conformable 
 to his many acts of dedication, clearly evin- 
 cing that he held not his life in competition 
 with his duty to his great Lord and Master. 
 
 In the Ninth month, in the year 1798, an 
 awful mortality prevailed in the city of Phi- 
 ladelphia, at the season of holding our 
 Annual Meeting; he weightily pondered 
 the subject ; and, as he expressed, the re- 
 sult was, it was better to go, and retain his 
 
Ill 
 
 peace, if he should die, than stay at home 
 and Jose it, if he should live some time 
 longer ; for if he lost his peace, he saw no- 
 thing in this world worth living for. He 
 attended the meeting ; and shortly after his 
 return home, the symptoms of the disorder 
 appeared ; under which he expressed his 
 resignation to the divine Will, and in the 
 solemn conflict was mercifully sustained in 
 much meekness and patience; and, after 
 about five days illness, departed this life, 
 aged 57 years — a minister about 14 years. 
 
 Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of Phi- 
 ladelphia, for the Southern District, held 
 the 26th of the First Month, 1803, respect- 
 ing Sarah Stephenson. 
 
 We are engaged to give a short ac- 
 count of our beloved deceased friend Sarah 
 Stephenson ; who, with the concurrence and 
 unity of the Monthly Meeting of Wiltshire, 
 the Quarterly Meeting of Gloucestershire 
 and Wiltshire, and the Yearly Meeting of 
 Ministers and Elders in London, embarked 
 on a religious visit to Friends in North 
 America. She arrived at New York in th< 
 r2 
 
112 
 
 Eighth month 18QJ, and, although fre- 
 quently under bodily indisposition, engaged 
 in a family visit to Friends of that city, 
 which we understand she was enabled to 
 perform much to their satisfaction. After 
 this service, feeling her mind drawn to- 
 wards Philadelphia, she, with her beloved 
 companion Mary Jefferis, came to this city 
 on the 9th of the Second month last, much 
 indisposed ; she was, nevertheless, enabled 
 to attend divers of our meetings, in which 
 she was engaged in the exercise of her gift, 
 to edification and comfort. After some 
 time, she opened a prospect of visiting the 
 families of Friends of this meeting, which 
 was cordially united with : she had not pro- 
 ceeded far in this service, before her indis- 
 position increased so as to confine her to 
 tier chamber. During her illness, some 
 account was taken of divers lively expres- 
 sions, which may afford encouragement 
 and benefit to survivors, viz. She said to a 
 friend, " I am now in my 64th year; thirty 
 of which I have been closely engaged in 
 endeavouring to fulfil my little mission — if 
 1 had but one talent, as 1 have endeavoured 
 to improve it, I hope I shall be accepted. V 
 The friend remarked, that her bed had 
 
113 
 
 been made in sickness : " Yes (said she) 
 wonderfully so." Being asked how she 
 felt herself respecting' her recovery ; she 
 answered, <( I have no prospect of it : I be- 
 lieve I have finished the work." And at 
 another time — (e There is nothing in my 
 way but my dear child/' meaning her com- 
 panion : then addressing herself to her, add- 
 ed, C( but, my dear, thou had nothing else 
 to expect when we left home ; then said, as 
 a consideration that comforted her, " It is 
 a favour I shall leave her amongst friends 
 who will extend their tender care." Upon 
 its being proposed she should take some- 
 thing, she said, c( My friends propose things 
 which I sometimes comply with, but it 
 seems precious to look towards a release." 
 After a time of stillness, she said to her com- 
 panion, cc Oh ! my dear, I have been sweetly 
 comforted in my good Master's presence." 
 She frequently acknowledged the kindness 
 of her fiiends, and expressed her desires 
 that the Lord would reward them, and often 
 mentioned how quiet she felt. 
 
 At another time she said, <c It gives me 
 
 no pleasure when any one speaks of my 
 
 recovery being likely ; I have a humble 
 
 hope it would be well, if it pleased my good 
 
 * k 3 
 
114 
 
 Master to take me now ; and if I stay long- 
 er,, it cannot be better — I have no desire 
 for continuance here." 
 
 The last day, 26th of the Fourth month, 
 early in the morning, the conflict of nature 
 increasing, she said, in a patient dispo- 
 sition, " This is wearing work :'"' after a 
 coughing fit, being much exhausted, " It 
 will be well, let it be which way it may ; 
 and that is better than all the world. It 
 seems as if it must be nearly over now, I 
 have so little strength left ;"> then making 
 a little pause, seemed to be uttering praises 
 " How good ! how good ! " After a while 
 she said, tc 1 cannot say much, but my King 
 reigns/' Soon after which, she quietly de- 
 parted this life, in a full assurance of a 
 happy change ; leaving a sweet memorial 
 in the minds of many of those who had op- 
 portunities of observing her humble deport- 
 ment and instructive conversation. 
 
 -Her body, after a season of solemnity, 
 was interred, on the 29th day of the Fourth 
 month, 1802. 
 
m 
 
 An Account of John Coope, Jim. son of 
 David, late of West Nottingham; Chester 
 County. 
 
 In his last sickness, his mind became 
 more impressed with serious thoughts con- 
 cerning- death and a future state, which he 
 confessed he had not been enough mindful 
 of in time of health ; saying, he had anxi- 
 ously attended to his outward business, 
 with an eager desire to gain a portion of 
 worldly treasure, being thereby diverted 
 from a suitable concern to lay up treasure 
 in heaven : he saw he had been greatly 
 deficient in his younger days, trifling away 
 much time which ought to have been bet- 
 ter spent, and not enough observing a 
 sober conduct and conversation. 
 
 At divers times he hinted, he had to view 
 things now in a different light from what 
 he had done, and told one of his uncles, he 
 clearly saw the danger and folly there is in 
 men suffering their affections to be placed 
 on things below ; believing himself to have 
 been a sinful creature, not living enough 
 in the fear of the Lord ; yet had supposed 
 himself as one who lived in a middling way, 
 but now saw it was a desperate state. (< I 
 
116 
 
 was very heedless for a time,- and distant 
 from the knowledge of pure religion, and its 
 gradual operation on the soul ; and though 
 of late I have experienced the great mercy 
 and condescension of the Lord, reducing 
 me to tenderness of heart, being helped 
 sincerely to ask forgiveness for my trans- 
 gressions, and since to feel much of the en- 
 joyment of heavenly love, with good will 
 to all people, and a prospect of peace, if my 
 life should soon be closed ; yet I think it 
 best for me to be modest and sparing if I 
 speak of conversion ; I believe I ought ra- 
 ther to be humbly thankful in secret for the 
 favour received., than to be too freely tell- 
 ing of it to my fellow creatures." 
 
 To divers who visited him, he appeared 
 to be in a sensible frame of mind, not de- 
 siring to live, but full of love and good 
 desires for all people. To a friend who 
 went to see him, he mentioned nearly as 
 follows: — ec One First-day, about three 
 months ago, my parents going to meeting, 
 (lie being unwell) it came in my mind to 
 rise from my bed, go sit by the fire, and try 
 to hold meeting by myself; after sitting 
 near an hour with my mind retired in still- 
 ness, I was suddenly overcome by a Divine 
 
117 
 
 visitation, which was very wonderful, far 
 exceeding any thing I had ever been sensi- 
 ble of before. I then experienced such an 
 income of joy and heavenly comfort that I 
 have not words to describe, with a clear 
 prospect that my Saviour's arms are open 
 to receive me ; the sting of death was taken 
 away, all around appearing to be marvel- 
 lous light and love. Many times since, as 
 I have lain in my bed, in a weak condition, 
 I have also witnessed heavenly Goodness 
 richly to comfort and support me, an un- 
 worthy creature. I have felt a mournful 
 concern on account of those who are delu- 
 ded dy deistical notions, denying our Lord 
 and Saviour/' 
 
 He continued sensible for the most part, 
 till the last hour ; and before he departed, 
 took an affecting leave of his parents, bro- 
 thers, and sisters ; speaking suitably to his 
 father, and with proper advice to each of 
 the others, one by one, continuing meek 
 and resigned. A few minutes before he de- 
 parted, he requested his father to join him 
 in prayer that Jesus would graciously come 
 and release him. Thus he apparently made 
 a happy conclusion the 19th of the First 
 month 1S03, being about 84 years of age, 
 
118 
 
 Some Account of Samuel Brown, Son of 
 David and Hannah Brown. 
 
 In his illness, which he bore with much 
 patience and quietude, he appeared to be 
 under deep exercise and thoughtfulness of 
 mind. The two last weeks of his time, 
 though under affliction and gTeat weakness, 
 he uttered many lively and sensible expres- 
 sions, some of which are here collected. 
 
 Some time after he was taken sick, he 
 said to a young Friend, " I thought since I 
 lay here, health was a fine thing to enjoy, 
 but when in health, we are apt to think too 
 little about it." At another time said, " Oh 
 that young people would stay at home 
 First-day afternoons, and wait upon the 
 Lord,, and read good books; how much 
 better they would feel when they come to 
 lie down to rest ; having spent the day well, 
 they would feel sweet peace, but when it is 
 otherwise, condemnation. I know some- 
 thing of it by experience : Oh that all would 
 take warning, for none knows how soon he 
 may be brought to a sick bed as I am ; and 
 then not to have peace of mind would be 
 very trying ; but I feel thankful that I staid 
 at home, though it seemed a little against 
 
119 
 
 my inclination, but it was soon made easier 
 to me than I could think." At another 
 time said, " The Lord hath been good to 
 me, though I have not always done as I 
 ought ; yet it seems as if it was not now 
 remembered, but all done away." 
 
 One morning, lying still a considerable 
 time, when he stirred, his mother saying 
 she thought he had been asleep, he replied, 
 Ci Sleep has been far from me, but I seemed 
 afraid even to stir a finger ; for there is a 
 work to be done in silence : I wish all could 
 see as I now see." 
 
 At another time he prayed to the Al- 
 mighty that he would take him to himself, 
 where he should feel no pain nor sorrow, 
 but peace and joy. His mother saying, Art 
 thou willing to leave us all ? he replied, 
 et I love father and mother, and every body, 
 but I hope to meet you all in a better 
 place : I have no desire to live ; I see no- 
 thing in this world worth living for/' One 
 of his little brothers reading in a book 
 called Piety Promoted, he desired him to 
 mind what he read, saying, it was the first 
 that gave him to feel the sense of the Lord's 
 dealings with his people. 
 
 At another time being under pain and 
 
120 
 
 distress, his mother said, cc I wish thee not 
 to think it hard that thou art thus afflicted.'* 
 He said, cc No, no, I take it as God's mer- 
 cies, for he has favoured me with my senses, 
 and hath enabled me to bear it patiently, 
 and I love him above all." 
 
 The evening before he died, he said, 
 " Oh, dear mother ! how careful thou art 
 of me. I wish thee not to desire my stay 
 here, for 1 am coming to the years wherein 
 many things may fall in my way, that might 
 be a sore trouble to thee, and the cause of 
 myself being unhappy forever ; but if I die 
 now, there is a place prepared for me a- 
 inongst the righteous." 
 
 The day he died, when in much pain, he 
 said, <f O ! heavenly Father, I humbly be- 
 seech thee, if it be thy holy will, grant me 
 a short and easy passage out of this world." 
 A little before his decease, he said, " It is 
 better to be poor and good, than rich and 
 wicked :" and shortly after quietly depart- 
 ed like one falling into an easy sleep, on 
 the 3d day of the Tenth month 1803, aged 
 IS years and a few months. 
 
121 
 
 Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of Phi- 
 ladelphia for the Northern District, con- 
 cerning William Savery. 
 
 It appears that he was born in the city 
 of Philadelphia in the year 1750, and edu- 
 cated in the principles of the Christian re- 
 ligion, as professed by us ; and was placed 
 with a Friend in the country, to learn the 
 trade of a tanner. On his return to the city 
 in 1771, being naturally of a lively and 
 social disposition, he soon joined with those 
 who, being themselves the votaries of folly 
 and vanity, encouraged him in a departure 
 from the simplicity of Truth ; which, aided 
 by his own propensities, drew him into 
 many deviations from the religious prin- 
 ciples of his education. In this situation 
 he was arrested by the powerfully convic- 
 tive evidence of the Spirit of Truth; and in 
 the year 1778, at a meeting held at Merion 
 after an interment, he was much affected, 
 and lasting impressions were made on his 
 mind by that solemn scene, and the testi- 
 monies then delivered. 
 
 In the autumn of that year, he married 
 in Chester county, and settled within the 
 limits of our Monthly Meeting, spent much 
 
 L 
 
122 
 
 of his time in retirement at home,, and in 
 the 30th year of his age, first opened his 
 mouth in a public testimony ; and dwelling 
 inward with those gifts and qualifications 
 with which he was favoured, he became an 
 able advocate for the cause in which he 
 had embarked ; and by his faithful atten- 
 tion thereto, his labours were blessed, to 
 the benefit of numbers, especially amongst 
 the youth, to many of whom he was an 
 eminent instrument of good. 
 
 He was engaged to travel much on this 
 Continent in the service of Truth, being 
 several months in each year, from 1789 to 
 1795 inclusive, absent from home on the 
 gospel errand ; and by accounts received, 
 his labours of love were to the satisfaction 
 of those among whom his lot was cast. 
 
 Having had his mind drawn into near 
 sympathy with the Friends at Pyrmont in 
 Germany — with the entire unity of his 
 brethren at home, he, on the 18th of the 
 Fifth month 1 796, embarked for Liverpool, 
 and thence soon proceeded to London, and 
 then to Pyrmont. After paying an accept- 
 able visit, to the comfort and strengthening 
 of Friends there, and in some other parts 
 of Germany, he went to Nismes in the 
 
123 
 
 south of France,, visiting a small company 
 of such as professed with us, in that neigh- 
 bourhood, much to his own comfort and 
 peace. Then returning to England, he 
 visited many of the principal towns and 
 places in that nation, Ireland, and Scot- 
 land, and had large public meetings with 
 those not of our Society. Having thus dis- 
 charged his religious duty in those parts, 
 he returned to his family and friends in the 
 Tenth month 1798. 
 
 He laboured diligently in his temporal 
 business for the support of his family, as 
 well as for the relief of the poor and dis- 
 tressed, to whose wants his liberal mind 
 was ever ready to administer according to 
 his ability ; yet this did not interrupt his 
 steady attention to religious duties, being 
 diligent in the attendance of meetings, and 
 in various other services to which he was 
 called and appointed, for the benefit of 
 society and the promotion of the cause of 
 Truth and righteousness. 
 
 In 1802 the neighbourhood in which he 
 lived was visited with a pestilential disease, 
 which carried many off in a short time : not 
 being easy to leave this scene of woe and 
 misery, he voluntarily resigned himself to 
 l 2 
 
124 
 
 visit those in distress, both Friends and 
 others, with advice and counsel, in the love 
 of the gospel, to the great consolation and 
 comfort of many. And a like affliction be- 
 falling that and other parts of the city and 
 neighbourhood, in the following year, he 
 was engaged in the same manner, freely 
 devoting himself, both night and day, to 
 relieve the distresses of others, with which 
 his own feeling mind was deeply affected. 
 
 In the early part of his sickness he was 
 borne up above complaining, or admitting 
 that he was much out of health, until the 
 disease, which proved a dropsy, had made 
 such progress, that it was visible to his 
 friends ; yet he continued to attend to his 
 outward concerns and religious duties; and 
 in some of the meetings which he last at- 
 tended, was led to open a prospect that his 
 time here would not be long ; but, in an 
 animating view of a blessed immortality, 
 signified it was no matter how short, pro- 
 vided this were attained. 
 
 He was remarkable for punctuality and 
 uprightness in his dealings ; and not long 
 before his decease, said to a friend who often 
 ^ isited him, cc It is necessary to look to our 
 outward concerns, there are so many re- 
 
125 
 
 proachful failures;" and appeared desirous 
 once more to get to meeting, that he might 
 have an opportunity to warn such of the 
 elderly part of society who had got into the 
 earth, and of the youth who had got into 
 the air, ec I thought/' said he, " I was once 
 strong for the work, but now I am a child 
 brought back to my hornbook, and have 
 nothing to trust to but the mercy of God 
 through Christ my Saviour." Thus reve- 
 rently depending, he was preserved to the 
 last in great resignation and composure of 
 mind. He was mostly confined from the 
 26th of the Third month (except frequently 
 riding out for the benefit of air and exer- 
 cise) till the 18th day of the Sixth month, 
 1804, in the evening of which he was con- 
 siderably worse, continued ill through the 
 night, and on the 19th, in the morning about 
 six o'clock, closed his useful life in the 54th 
 year of his age. On the following day, his 
 corpse, attended by a great number of his 
 friends and neighbours, was interred iu 
 Friends' burial ground in this city. 
 
 l 3 
 
126 
 
 Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of Hard- 
 wick and Mendham, held at Mendham the 
 7th day of the Second month 1805., con- 
 cerning Richard Dell. 
 
 He was born the 16th day of the Tenth 
 month 1726,, and from his youth was much 
 inclined to seriousness ; and being early 
 acquainted with the teachings of Divine 
 grace,, and measurably attending thereto, 
 he became exemplary in his conduct and 
 conversation. 
 
 In the year 1760 he settled within the li- 
 mits of Mendham particular meeting, and 
 became a serviceable member thereof. He 
 was called to the work of the ministry about 
 the 37th year of his age, and being faithful 
 thereto, he experienced a growth therein, 
 and became an able minister of the gospel, 
 being sound in doctrine, reaching the wit- 
 ness in many minds. He was a diligent 
 attender of our religious meetings, and a 
 good example of humble waiting therein ; 
 careful not to move in the exercise of his 
 gift without a renewed qualification. 
 
 He was an affectionate husband, a tender 
 father, a kind sympathizing friend, and very 
 useful in his neighbourhood in composing 
 
12? 
 
 differences ; being zealously concerned for 
 the honour and promotion of Truth ; the 
 influence whereof frequently engaged hirnt 
 in the weighty service of visiting families 
 both within the verge of our own and the 
 adjacent Monthly Meetings,, we believe to 
 the satisfaction of those he visited and the 
 peace of his own mind. 
 
 Hi? last visit was to some meetings and 
 families in West Jersey, which he performed 
 to his own satisfaction a few months before 
 his last illness, which, though attended with 
 great bodily pain, he was enabled to bear 
 with remarkable patience and resignation 
 to the divine Will ; saying to one who vi- 
 sited him, he was waiting for his change — 
 to another, that he had no desire of reco- 
 very, but hoped he might be preserved in 
 patience. He several times imparted very 
 weighty counsel and advice to those about 
 him, and departed this life the 3d day of 
 the Eighth month 1804, aged near 78, a 
 minister upwards of forty years ; and we 
 doubt not but that he hath the fruition of 
 that glory and happiness prepared for the 
 righteous. 
 
128 
 
 Testimony from London Grove Monthly 
 Meeting, in Chester county, Pennsylvania, 
 concerning Joshua Pusey, who departed 
 this life the 16th of Third month 1804, 
 aged 65 years. 
 
 He was from his youth an example in 
 piety and virtue, was early appointed an 
 elder, and to divers other important stations 
 in the church. We believe he was deeply 
 concerned to answer the end of his appoint- 
 ments, for the cause of Truth and good of 
 society. He diligently attended our reli- 
 gious meetings, and maintained an exem- 
 plary deportment therein ; was a lover of 
 peace both in the church and neighbour- 
 hood, carefully doing to others as he would 
 they should do to him ; which so corres- 
 ponded with his admonitions and advice, 
 that it had great weight and influence; he 
 was also concerned that his family might 
 live in peace and love after his decease. 
 
 Soon after he was taken ill in his last 
 sickness, he said, " I have no prospect of 
 continuing much longer with you, my dear 
 wife and children, yet it is with gratitude I 
 acknowledge the favour of having been 
 permittee! to remain thus long." To three 
 
129 
 
 of his children he said,, (c Be exceedingly 
 careful that your characters become not 
 spotted with spots and, blemishes — live in 
 the fear of the Lord, it is clean and en- 
 dureth forever : it is the beginning of wis- 
 dom ; it is a fountain of life, which pre- 
 serves from the snares of death/* Speaking 
 of Deists, he said, " There is one thing 
 with which I believe they are unacquainted, 
 viz. the love of God shed abroad in the 
 heart, which surpasseth the understanding 
 of men/' 
 
 After a severe time in his disorder,, he 
 said to a neighbour, {{ I thought my close 
 near, but saw nothing in my way ; I feel 
 that peace which the world cannot give nor 
 take away ; the love of God shed abroad in 
 my heart/' At another time he said to a 
 friend, 6e I am here, and favoured with my 
 senses ; I have not done much for the Truth, 
 but have been on Truth's side, for which I 
 feel peace ; and believe, through the ador- 
 able mercy of God, 1 shall be admitted 
 within the gate/' 
 
 The day before his decease, he was aw- 
 fully exercised in supplication to the Al- 
 mighty for the blessing of preservation to 
 descend upon all, and that patience might 
 
ISO 
 
 be granted him to bear his afflictions : a 
 difficulty of breathing* increasing, nearly 
 the last words that were intelligible, were, 
 <c Thine is the kingdom, the power, and the 
 glory, forever and for evermore." — So clo- 
 sed his time here with a sweet savour. 
 
 Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of Phi- 
 ladelphia for the Northern District, con* 
 cerning John Parrish. 
 
 He was born in Maryland in the year 
 1730, on his father's farm, adjacent to the 
 spot whereon the city of Baltimore now 
 stands. Being left an orphan, he was placed 
 to learn a trade in Philadelphia, and served 
 his apprenticeship with reputation. Soon 
 after arriving at man's estate, he became, 
 under the influence of a divine visitation, 
 more than usually exercised in concern for 
 the welfare of his immortal part ; and was 
 for a considerable time, under very great 
 depression of mind ; in which season of 
 close probation he was mercifully preserved 
 from sinking into despondency, and at 
 length, through deep humiliation and a- 
 basement, witnessing this to be a dispen- 
 
131 
 
 satioh permitted for his refinement, was 
 graciously relieved from his low, afflicted 
 state, raised to sing of the mercies of God 
 on the banks of deliverance, and was re- 
 commended as a minister in the Tenth 
 month, 1777. 
 
 In the year 1773 he accompanied our 
 friend Zebulon Heston on a religious visit 
 to the Delaware Indians, residing westward 
 of Pennsylvania ; the performance of which 
 apprehended duty yielded peace to his own 
 mind, and it appears was very acceptable 
 to them. The desire for their religious im- 
 provement, and to render the situation of 
 the Indian natives of our country more 
 comfortable, by drawing them off from 
 their usual precarious mode of living by 
 hunting, and encouraging them to habits 
 of industry and the cultivation of their 
 lands, was a subject which engaged a con- 
 siderable portion of his attention ; and from 
 having been much amongst them in several 
 visits to their settlements, becoming well 
 acquainted with their habits and manners, 
 he was very useful in endeavouring to for- 
 ward their civil and religious improvement. 
 Another striking trait of the benevolence of 
 his character, was his early and steady at- 
 
132 
 
 tachment to the cause of the injured black 
 people. Having in younger life had an 
 opportunity of witnessing some scenes of 
 degradation and grievous suffering incident 
 to their enslaved state, he soon became a 
 zealous and useful advocate for their eman- 
 cipation ; and in addition to his persever- 
 ing private labours for their benefit, was 
 frequently induced, under a clear sense of 
 religious duty, personally to appear before 
 legislative assemblies on their behalf. 
 
 In the year 1784, accompanied by James 
 Cresson, he performed a visit in Gospel love 
 to the inhabitants of the island of Barba- 
 does, where they continued about eight 
 weeks, and on their return lie said, their 
 labour was to satisfaction and comfort ; 
 and thankfully acknowledged that divine 
 help and protection were graciously vouch- 
 safed through the arduous undertaking. 
 
 He travelled, in Truth's service, in seve- 
 ral of the governments on this continent, 
 wherein his labours of love were edifying 
 and acceptable. He was naturally of a 
 cheerful disposition, and became through 
 the aid of divine grace, remarkable for re- 
 signation and patience under trials,, of which 
 he had many ; and having himself suffered 
 
\ss 
 
 affliction, was frequently a comfortable 
 visitor to those who were in distress, and a 
 true sympathizer in the afflictions of othei a, 
 His public testimonies were mostly short, 
 and delivered in much brokenness, yet his 
 ministry was clear, sound, and edifying;. 
 His concern was great on account of the 
 rising generation, often encouraging them 
 to come taste and see for themselves that 
 the Lord is good, and to enter in the prime 
 of their days into his service ; testifying 
 from his own experience, that they would 
 never have cause to repent serving so good 
 a master. 
 
 In the Tenth month 1807, with the ap- 
 probation of our monthly meeting, he at- 
 tended the Yearly Meeting at Baltimore, 
 and after it was over, was religiously en- 
 gaged on the 16th to visit the prisoners in 
 the jail of that place. In the evening of 
 the same day, at the house of a friend, he 
 was suddenly seized with a paralytic affec- 
 tion, under the effect of which he continued, 
 without much appearance of bodily suffer- 
 ing, though incapable of expression, until 
 the evening of the 21st, when he was re- 
 leased from this state of trial and probation; 
 
 M 
 
134 
 
 and we doubt not is gathered into the fold 
 of rest and peace — aged near 78 — a minister 
 about thirty years. 
 
 Testimony of New Garden Monthly Meeting 
 concerning Dinah Lamsorn. 
 
 After her marriage,, which was about 
 the 18th year of her age, she settled with 
 her husband at London Grove, and became 
 a member of this Monthly Meeting. It 
 appears from some of her memorandums., 
 that in early life her mind was often turned 
 to pray for and seek after an inheritance in 
 the Truth ; and being but a child that had 
 need of instruction, she greatly esteemed 
 the company and conversation of those 
 whom she apprehended were further ad- 
 vanced in religious experience ; and hath 
 since at times expressed, with a sense of 
 gratitude, the lively remembrance she re- 
 tained of the merciful extendings of Divine 
 regard towards her in those youthful days ; 
 and of the fatherly and motherly care of 
 divers friends. 
 
 After many refining baptisms, she came 
 forth, about the 35th year of her age, with 
 
135 
 
 at] acceptable acknowledgment to the 
 goodness and mercy of that arm of power 
 which had been revealed for her help ; to 
 the efficacy whereof she was many times 
 qualified to bear a sweet and consoling 
 testimony amongst us, and in parts adja- 
 cent, as also in some of the neighbouring 
 governments ; performing some of those 
 visits under great bodily infirmities, divers 
 of her joints being drawn out of place by 
 the force of rheumatic pains. 
 
 Her concern for the rising generation was 
 great, frequently calling upon them in 
 public testimony, with inviting language, 
 to come and partake freely of that Foun- 
 tain which would heal them of their mala- 
 dies; often manifesting a desire to have 
 them in her company. For those of her 
 own family, her prayers and tears were 
 often poured out, that they might not only 
 be the called, but the chosen of the Lord. 
 She was careful not to reprove in a light 
 or hasty manner, but to seek for a quiet 
 and retired opportunity; speaking in mild 
 terms, and endeavouring so to reach the 
 divine witness, that they could not gainsay; 
 whereby we believe she was made a blessing 
 m 2 
 
m 
 
 to some both .in her own family and neigh- 
 bourhood. 
 
 In the time of the revolutionary war, it 
 was the lot of the family to meet with much 
 stripping for military demands, wherein she 
 bore her testimony with firmness, saying, 
 c< Let us trust in the Lord." She much 
 prized the unity of the brethren and sisters; 
 and knowing the comfort and advantage 
 thereof, was guarded against indulging a 
 disposition to speak disrespectfully ; and 
 sometimes mentioned, in substance, that 
 Upon hearing of reflections being cast. upon 
 her, she had at times been favoured to be- 
 lieve a higher and better ground was attain- 
 able than that of reflecting again ; that it- 
 had appeared safer first to examine herowiv 
 Conduct, and endeavour to mend where she 
 found it to be remiss; that under those 
 exercises, her mind had been animated 
 vvith desire, that she might be favoured to 
 labour more earnestly to obtain a portion 
 of that good part, which the world can 
 neither give nor take away. She manifested 
 much desire, even under great bodily infir- 
 mities, to attend religious meetings, and to 
 promote the attendance of her family ; and 
 was exemplary in her deportment in them : 
 
137 
 
 in those for discipline she was eminently 
 useful,, being endued with a spirit of clear 
 discerning and sound judgment ; though 
 often drawn into sympathy for those, who, 
 through inadvertence, had gone astray. 
 Thus from small beginnings, in much sim- 
 plicity, she was raised up to become a 
 nursing mother in the church. 
 
 About eight years before her decease, she 
 became so enfeebled as not to be able to 
 walk or stand alone, neither to follow any 
 business with her hands for most of that 
 time; under which humbling dispensation 
 (although her affliction was often great) 
 she was so divinely supported, as to mani- 
 fest patience and resignation, which proved 
 very edifying and affecting to many who 
 visited her ; being enabled to speak to their 
 conditions in a lively manner, imparting 
 much excellent counsel. Her conversation 
 was instructive, mostly appearing cheerful, 
 and remarking at times, from a sense of 
 gratitude, the many favours she yet en- 
 joyed ; amongst which she esteemed the 
 holy Scriptures as a peculiar blessing, fre- 
 quently reading and meditating therein; 
 and was concerned to promote a similar 
 disposition and practice in others, appre- 
 m3 
 
13S 
 
 h ending she had been favoured to draw 
 much consolation therefrom, in this time of 
 her deep proving ; all which was as a lively 
 seal to the efficacy of that blessed truth to 
 which she had borne testimony in more 
 active life. 
 
 About two weeks before her decease, she 
 was taken with a chill and fever ; and some 
 days after, being favoured with the over- 
 flowings of divine love, expressed thus, " I 
 hope to be favoured with patience to wait 
 until my change come/' saying, cc my end 
 will be peace : the Lord hath plucked my 
 feet out of the mire and clay, and set them 
 upon a rock that is higher than I, and hath 
 put a new song into my mouth, even praises 
 for evermore." In the evening of the 15th 
 of the Fourth month 1807, she quietly de- 
 parted,, as one going into an easy sleep, in 
 the 63d year of her age ; and her memory 
 remains precious, having through faith ob- 
 tained a good report. 
 
139 
 
 A Memorial of Chester Monthly Meeting 
 concerning Eli Yarnall. 
 
 Our beloved friend became, in early life, 
 acquainted with the voice of the true Shep- 
 herd, inwardly revealed ; and by improving 
 under the divine visitations, graciously 
 afforded from time to time, he grew in god- 
 liness. About the 27th year of his age, he 
 appeared in the ministry, and afterwards 
 performed several journies in the service of 
 the gospel to the edification of the church, 
 in some of the neighbouring States. For 
 many years of the latter part of his life, his 
 public service was mostly confined within 
 the limits of our Quarterly Meeting, yet his 
 growth from stature to stature in religious 
 experience, was apparent ; until he became 
 a truly valued father in the church, and an 
 able minister of the gospel of our Lord 
 Jesus Christ. 
 
 His appearances in the ministry were, of 
 latter years, not very frequent; being a 
 good example in humble waiting until he 
 felt the renewal of that ability in which 
 alone he could minister, to his own peace 
 and the health of the church. In those 
 
140 
 
 frequent seasons of waiting in our meetings 
 to attain to a state of solemn silence before 
 the great Head of the Church, a reverent 
 awfulness was frequently visible in his 
 countenance ; and under a feeling sense of 
 bis own frailty as a dependent creature, and 
 of the evidences of divine love, froth time 
 to time renewed, tears of humiliation and 
 gratitude were often seen to flow from him. 
 
 In the concerns relating to the affairs of 
 our religious Society, his various services 
 were rendered in a manner becoming a 
 cheerfully dedicated servant. In his inter- 
 course with men, and in his deportment 
 before his family, he showed an example of 
 circumspection and meekness. 
 
 In the forepart of the Seventh month, 
 1812, he became indisposed of a fever; in 
 the early part whereof, he appeared to have 
 some sense of his end approaching. His 
 disease was, after a time, attended with 
 symptoms of a very afflicting kind, under 
 which he suffered great pain. In the be- 
 ginning of the Eighth month, to a friend 
 who visited him, he expressed thus : " My 
 dear friend, I believe I am going the way 
 of all flesh. My pain is often very great, 
 but my mind, under the prospect of ap- 
 
141 
 
 preaching dissolution,, enjoys entire resig- 
 nation. Indeed, the quietude and peaceful 
 serenity with which I have, from day to 
 day, since my confinement, been favoured, 
 even when under excruciating pain, is cause 
 of much thankfulness and admiration." 
 
 On the 6th, being much relieved, his 
 wife and children with two other relations 
 being present, after a short time of silence/ 
 he appeared in fervent supplication, be- 
 seeching the Almighty who had been with 
 Him from his youth, to sustain and support 
 him to the end, and not to suffer him to 
 fall into temptation. Afterwards address- 
 ing his two sons, he reminded them of the 
 many precious visitations which had been 
 dispensed both immediately and hist ru ment- 
 ally ; adding, that he craved their encou- 
 ragement to obedience; that by making 
 the Lord their friend, they might witness' 
 him to be their strength and support through 
 life. Shortly afterwards, he broke forth in 
 praises and thanksgiving to the God and 
 Father of mercies for the blessed assurance 
 which he then felt of his love, and of his 
 peace being made with him. After a short 
 silence, he again broke forth in these words. 
 ff Glorv to God in the hiirhe -t ; on earth 
 
142 
 
 peace ; good will to men;" adding, <c often 
 before now 1 have been made sensible of 
 the universality of the love of our heavenly 
 Father, and now I feel it to flow towards 
 all men." Then repeating the text, he ex- 
 claimed — " O ! what a wonderful display 
 of the unspeakable love of God to his 
 creature man." Sometime after, he said, 
 " If I die now, give my dear love to all my 
 friends, and tell them I die in peace and 
 unity with all faithful Friends." 
 
 On the 14th, an observation being made 
 implying the possibility of his recovery, he 
 said, " My dependence is on the Lord Al- 
 mighty, whose blessed will be done — 
 though i may be taken, I can say in truth, 
 come Lord,, thy servant is ready. I have 
 not now to suffer the pangs of guilt " 
 
 On the 16th, after some solid observa- 
 tions on his situation, he signified that his 
 mind was at peace with God and with all 
 men, and said, " The sting of death is sin, 
 and that is taken away." 
 
 Many other expressions were uttered 
 during his sickness, tending to show his 
 quiet, humble resignation to the will of his 
 heavenly Father, either to live or to die, 
 and his great desire that his friends and 
 
14;; 
 
 connections would give him up freely to 
 divine disposal. 
 
 His patience under suffering was remark- 
 able, and his love to his friends appeared to 
 be unbounded. 
 
 Being much relieved in the latter part of 
 his time from severe pain, he was often con- 
 cerned to render the tribute of gratitude and 
 thankfulness to the Author of every blessing, 
 for thus graciously interposing on his behalf; 
 and throughout his confinement, it was never 
 discoverable that he was suffered for a mo- 
 ment to lose his confidence in the all-sustain- 
 ing arm of divine help, nor to doubt of his 
 acceptance with his Lord and Master. 
 
 He quietly departed this life on the 25th 
 day of the Eighth month 1812, in the morn- 
 ing, in the 60th year of his age. 
 
 Testimony from the Falls Monthly Meeting 
 in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, concern- 
 ing John Simpson. 
 
 It appears he was born the 23d day of 
 the Tenth month 1739, of parents in mem- 
 bership with Friends, who removed (when 
 he was an infant) and settled in the verge 
 
141 
 
 of Buckingham monthly meeting in this 
 county ; and being naturally of a quick and 
 lively disposition, he often indulged himself 
 in levity and mirth incident to unthinking 
 youth ; but sometime before he arrived to 
 man's estate, a visitation of divine love was 
 extended to his soul, whereby he was 
 favoured to see sin to be exceeding sinful, 
 and as he abode in humility, under the 
 operation of the Spirit upon him, he was 
 favoured to experience his own fallen nature 
 in a good degree subjected, and a new birth 
 brought forth. 
 
 About the 26th year of his age, he ap- 
 peared in the ministry, and became an able 
 minister of the gospel ; for the promulga- 
 tion of which he was concerned to visit the 
 meetings on this continent, and many of 
 them several times, his life and conversation 
 corresponding with the gospel. And, as 
 he knew from experience that young people 
 left to themselves often spend time unprofit- 
 able especially on First-day afternoons, he 
 was frequently engaged to sit down with 
 his family in solid retirement; at times had 
 the Scriptures of Truth read therein, and 
 that the benefit might become more general, 
 was engaged to recommend the like practice 
 
14j 
 
 to others. When differences or disunity 
 arose within his knowledge, he was zea- 
 lously engaged to endeavour to bring about 
 a settlement and reconciliation, for which 
 service he was peculiarly gifted. 
 
 Having removed to the State of Ohio in 
 the year 1810, and spent some time there 
 in the service of Truth, his mind became 
 easy to return, though in a weak state of 
 health ; and proceeding on his journey as 
 far as Waynesville, he departed this life the 
 30th day of the Eighth month, 1811, aged 
 about 72 years. Some extracts from his 
 writings during his sickness are hereto an- 
 nexed. 
 
 " Now having been above a month tried 
 with sickness and weakness., some days and 
 nights sharp pain as ever I experienced, but 
 most surely I could say, that the Lord did 
 make my bed in sickness, and heard my 
 supplications that I was enabled to put up, 
 that he would look down upon me. The 
 joyful and peaceful state of mind 1 feel, and 
 also sweet brotherly love among my friends, 
 so that if I have now finished my day's 
 work, let all my children, connexions, and 
 friends secretly hope, that if I live or die I 
 am the Lord's. I seldom or ever felt more 
 
 N 
 
146 
 
 •rksirous that Truth might prosper; but 
 ieel a heavy cloud over the church, as 
 the apostle Pau mentions concerning the 
 foolish Galatian O, may every sensible 
 Christian professor lay it closely to heart, 
 and unite in supplication, that the pro- 
 phecy of Zephaniah may come to pass : 
 ^ For then will I turn to the people a pure 
 language, that they may all call upon the 
 name of the Lord, to serve him with one 
 consent/' 
 
 The substance of some expressions that 
 lie desired might be taken down in writing, 
 and spread among his friends, a few days 
 before his death :- — 
 
 He said that the nearer he drew to the 
 /close of his life, the plainer he saw, and 
 the clearer evidence he had, that a greater 
 ^deception could not be practised upon man- 
 kind, than to persuade them that they could 
 be Christians without spiritual baptism ; 
 but it was his ardent desire for all, that 
 they might not be deceived, but be willing 
 to endure the baptism of Christ. Frequent? 
 iy repeating at other times, " There is no 
 other way, there is no other way." He 
 further said, ff I feci like one that has done 
 
147 
 
 his day's work ; I have fought a good 
 fight, and all is well — dust must return to 
 dust/' 
 
 Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of Bur- 
 lington concerning John Hoskins. 
 
 He was favoured in early life with a vi- 
 sitation of divine love, and during his ap- 
 prenticeship his mind became impressed 
 with an apprehension of duty to attend re- 
 ligious meetings held on those called week- 
 days, in which he met with various dis- 
 couragements ; but continuing faithful ill 
 bearing the cross, his concern to fulfil this 
 important duty, as he advanced in life, and 
 was engaged in its active scenes for the 
 support of an increasing family, became 
 -more fervent and extensive ; being often 
 heard to say, while endeavouring to impress 
 a sense of its importance on the minds of 
 others, that religious meetings were of little 
 benefit to himself, if his tender offspring, 
 or the youth placed under his care, were 
 absent ; thus evincing by example and pre- 
 cept, a lively sense of the solemn obligation 
 wc are under to render worship in our pub- 
 n2 
 
148 
 
 jic assemblies to the author and dispenser 
 of all our blessings. 
 
 Continuing obedient to the dictates of the 
 divine principle., he gradually experienced 
 the propensities of nature regulated, the 
 strong will of man subjected, and the lamb- 
 like nature exalted : this was particularly 
 conspicuous in the latter years of his life, 
 w herein universal love was much the cloth- 
 ing of his mind. 
 
 During a long course of years he stood 
 acceptably in the station of an Elder, and 
 was zealous in the support of our Christian 
 testimonies ; manifesting a fervent concern, 
 that no failure- on the part of those who 
 professed to bear them, might eclipse their 
 lustre, and thereby prove an occasion of 
 stumbling to seeking minds. 
 
 His last illness continued about four days ; 
 during which time, though he suffered much 
 bodily pain, he was preserved in patience, 
 and his mind appeared to be sustained in 
 humble confidence, with reference to the 
 approaching solemn period ; expressing to 
 the physician who attended him, " I am 
 wasting with this disorder, but it does not 
 alarm me/' or words to that import. At 
 another time, to a near connection who en- 
 
14<> 
 
 quired how he felt,, after a pause he said, 
 tf I feel nothing in my way ; 1 feel love iiv 
 my heart to all mankind." He further said, 
 " I have nothing to depend upon but divine- 
 mercy." 
 
 He quietly departed on the 27th day of 
 the Third month- 1S14, in the 87th year 
 of his age. 
 
 Testimony of New Garden Monthly Meeting, 
 concerning Jacob Lindley. 
 
 This our valuable friend: was born in the 
 Ninth month, 1744. He was early in life 
 a lover of religious enquiry, being of an 
 affable and communicative disposition, not 
 willingly giving nor readily taking offence; 
 and as his natural endowments became sea- 
 soned with divine grace, he was fitted to 
 fill with propriety the important station to 
 which he was afterwards called. 
 
 His first appearance in the ministry was 
 about the thirtieth year of his age ; his 
 communications were lively and powerful, 
 reaching the witness in the hearts of those 
 to whom he ministered; and by keeping 
 low and humble, walking in fear, and in 
 obedjjence to the manifestations of his duty, 
 n3 
 
150 
 
 he pew in his gift, and became an able 
 minister of the gospel, qualified to divide 
 the word aright to the several states of the 
 people. Being well versed in the Scriptures, 
 he was frequently enabled to open them 
 with instructive clearness. In times of in- 
 ternal commotion and strife in our country, 
 he was deeply concerned; earnestly cau- 
 tioning Friends, especially the young men, 
 to watch against the delusive spirit of war, 
 in its various appearances, so desolating in 
 its progress, and destructive to the human 
 species ; and we believe his labours herein 
 were productive of salutary effects. 
 
 He was one of those who bore a faithful 
 testimony against the improper use of ar- 
 dent spirits, at a time when the minds of 
 Friends in general were less awakened to 
 the magnitude of the evil, than has since 
 been the case. The descendants of the 
 African race found in him a zealous advo- 
 cate ; their wrongs and sufferings obtaining 
 Lis tender sympathy. 
 
 His travels in the exercise of his gift, 
 
 appear to have beeu to the acceptance and 
 
 edification of those among whom he came. 
 
 We shall close this Testimony with a few 
 
 remarks on the last day of his existence in 
 
151 
 
 mutability, awfully impressive of the neces- 
 sity of having* our accounts in readiness. 
 He appeared in the meeting' at New Garden, 
 in a lively and affecting communication, 
 delivered with heart-tendering energy and 
 clearness ; in the course of which, he inti- 
 mated an apprehension that there might be 
 those present who would not see the light 
 of another day ; and added, perhaps it 
 might be himself. 
 
 After meeting he appeared in his usual 
 cheerful disposition ; when, towards even- 
 ing, by a fall from a chaise, he was sud- 
 denly deprived of life. 
 
 His decease was on the 12th of the Sixth 
 month, 1814; and on the 14th of the same, 
 he was interred in Friends' burying-ground 
 at New Garden, where a solemn meeting 
 was held on the occasion. 
 
 Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of Phi- 
 ladelphia for the Northern District, con- 
 cerning Thomas Scattergood. 
 
 From the love we feel for the memory 
 of this our dear friend, and the continued 
 sense, we have of his fervent pious engage- 
 
152 
 
 ments, it appears to be a duty to posterity 
 to transmit some account of his life and 
 conversation. 
 
 He was born in the city of Burlington, 
 New Jersey, of parents professing belief in 
 the doctrines and principles held by us as 
 a religious Society : his father dying whilst 
 he was young, he was placed an apprentice 
 in this city ; and though often sensible of 
 the checks of divine grace, which condemns 
 for sin, he followed the inclination of his 
 own c >rrupt will, which led into estrange- 
 meii the path of peace ; till being in 
 
 mere) vii i*ed with an humbling sense of 
 his miserable condition, he turned at the 
 reproofs ot instruction, and submitting to 
 the gentle manifestations of light upon his 
 understanding, was enabled to bear the 
 cross of Christ, and became qualified to 
 extend advice and counsel to others. Un- 
 der those exercises, a sense of a call to the 
 ministry of the gospel was, in the wisdom 
 and love of God, communicated to his 
 mind; but through great reluctance to 
 yield to this awful work, he forbore for 
 several years, and thereby brought upon 
 himself very deep distressing conflicts. At 
 length, whilst accompanying a friend who 
 
153 
 
 had been here on a religions visit, Hie im- 
 pression of divine requiring being renewed 
 upon him, his mouth was opened with a 
 few words in a religious meeting, and after 
 his return, he expressed at times in our 
 religious assemblies, a few sentences in a 
 tender broken manner, much to the satis- 
 faction of his friends; and continuing sted- 
 fast under many baptisms and trials, he 
 was remarkably careful that no part of his 
 conduct might lessen the force of the doc- 
 trine which he had to preach to others. 
 Keeping faithful to the intimations of duty, 
 he became prepared for more extensive ser- 
 vice ; and with the concurrence of the 
 Monthly Meeting, proceeded to fulfil a 
 prospect he had of a religious visit to the 
 meetings of Friends within the government 
 of New York, and part of New England, 
 and was favoured to return with the reward 
 of peace. Thus diligently labouring in the 
 work of the ministry, he was for many years 
 much from home, visiting meetings in va- 
 rious places, particularly in Maryland, Vir- 
 ginia, and Carolina ; where he experienced 
 much close exercise and proving of faith 
 and patience ; but through the goodness 
 and power of the blessed Shepherd of Israel, 
 
154 
 
 wbose help is ever near for the support of 
 his humble dedicated servants, he was car- 
 ried through all, to the comfort of his own 
 mind, and the satisfaction of his friends. 
 
 The prospect of making a visit to the 
 churches in Europe being opened upon his 
 mind, and meekly abiding under the weight 
 of this exercise until it was ripe for the in- 
 formation of his friends, he was induced 
 to spread it before them ; and obtaining 
 their unity and sympathy, he embarked, 
 and arrived in England in the year 1794. 
 Much deep and silent exercise was often 
 his lot, but as resignation and patience 
 were maintained, he was enabled to dis- 
 charge what appeared to be his duty ; and 
 labouring for several years in the fulfilment 
 of this arduous service, he experienced the 
 near unity and fellowship of Friends in 
 those countries, and came away in the en- 
 joyment of peace, under a sense of the 
 immediate protecting providence of Him, 
 who is to his children a sure rock and 
 never-failing refuge. He continued mostly 
 at home for several years, diligently at- 
 tending the respective meetings of which 
 he was a member, and also other religious 
 services. 
 
155 
 
 Be was much devoted to the promotion 
 of the cause of Truth and righteousness, 
 and through the eilicacy of heavenly love, 
 was at times enabled to say, it was more 
 to him than his necessary food ; but being 
 sensible of his various infirmities, he was 
 frequent in inward retirement, and hence 
 his mind became strengthened in watch- 
 fulness against those tilings which inter- 
 rupt the aspiration of the soul towards the 
 Fountain of everlasting life ; being thereby 
 made quick in the fear of the Lord, he in- 
 creased in solid experience, and gradually 
 advanced in the way and work of salvation. 
 His example in silent waiting in our reli- 
 gious meetings was instructive, and in the 
 exercise of his gift, it was evident that he 
 had been careful to feel the putting forth 
 of the divine hand, being at times eminently 
 endued with a clear discernment of the 
 states of meetings and individuals, and in 
 the power of the gospel, was made instru- 
 mental to baptize many into deep con- 
 trition, through a heart-felt sense of their 
 own condition. Thus, as a scribe well in- 
 structed into the kingdom, he brought forth 
 out of the treasury things new and old, to 
 
156 
 
 {he edification of the body and to the praise 
 of its ever adorable Head. 
 
 His sympathy with the afflicted was often 
 manifest; and the situation of those in ne- 
 cessitous circumstances peculiarly claiming' 
 his tender regard, occasioned his frequently 
 bringing to the notice of his brethren, their 
 suffering condition, that their benevolent 
 endeavours might be exerted for their alle- 
 viation. 
 
 He was so tender of the reputation of all, 
 that he could not take the liberty of expres- 
 sing any thing to lessen it, nor was he easy 
 to hear others in such a practice. 
 
 He attended several sittings of our Yearly 
 meeting in the Fourth month 1814, and 
 was taken unwell the 21st. The disorder, 
 though apparently not alarming at the com- 
 mencement, in a short time greatly pros- 
 trated his strength ; yet he was preserved 
 throughout in much quietness and sweet- 
 ness of spirit; was frequently pleasant and 
 cheerful ; his concern for the prosperity of 
 Zion was still the prevalent engagement of 
 his mind, and he often enquired how the 
 Yearly Meeting was advancing in its im- 
 portant business. 
 
157 
 
 On the third day of his illness,, a friend 
 sitting by him expressed he felt a peaceful 
 solemnity — he replied, " So do I ; my mind 
 is centred in quiet, peaceful resignation. " 
 On the next day those about him appre- 
 hended he was near departing, but reviving 
 a little, he at intervals expressed nearly as 
 follows : {C This is the last piece of the gar- 
 ment that is to be worked up ; and if I can 
 be favoured to join the righteous of every 
 generation, it will be enough." Again — 
 fC Well, I don't know that I have much to 
 say for myself; I leave it to the Lord, the 
 Shepherd that sleepeth not by day nor 
 slumbereth by night, who watcheth over 
 his children and over his flock." Again — 
 C( I hope that a righteous generation will 
 be raised up and preserved as a seed;" — 
 and after a silent pause, added, i( Oh, if we 
 can but be favoured to take some of that 
 love with us — the end crowns all — I have 
 nothing to boast of; I have been baptized 
 into many low places, and raised up again." 
 He appeared disposed for more expression, 
 but his bodily powers were so far gone as 
 to render his attempts unintelligible ; yet 
 after a considerable time of silence, he ut- 
 tered with much emphasis, (( I will lead 
 o 
 
15S 
 
 them." Soon after which he quietly and 
 peacefully departed, the 24th of the Fourth 
 mouth, 1814; and we doubt not hath en- 
 tered into rest, enjoying that crown of 
 righteousness which the Lord, the righteous 
 Judge, will give unto all them that love his 
 appearing. 
 
 Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of Phila- 
 delphia for the Southern District concern- 
 ing Deborah Evans, Wife of William 
 Evans. 
 
 With a view to excite in the minds of 
 survivors, and particularly the youth, a 
 close adherence to the intimations of divine 
 grace, we are engaged to preserve some 
 account of this our beloved friend. In the 
 early part of life, through the influence of 
 company, she was drawn to partake of the 
 vain amusements which with insidious 
 plausibility are presented to ensnare the 
 minds of unwary youth. But through the 
 tender mercy of a gracious Creator, being 
 brought to see the sinfulness of thus wast- 
 ing the precious time allotted for a purpose 
 unspeakably interesting to every rational 
 being, she was induced to yield to those 
 
159 
 
 visitations of divine love ; and as she kept 
 close to the gentle operation thereof upon 
 her mind, was strengthened to bear the 
 cross, and became exemplary in plainness 
 and simplicity. In this humble state, she 
 was received into membership amongst 
 Friends, about the nineteenth year of her 
 age. A few years after her marriage, her 
 constitution becoming very delicate, she 
 gradually declined in health; and during 
 her illness, was often favoured with an un- 
 shaken confidence that the Lord, who had 
 been pleased to draw her mind to the teach- 
 ing of his blessed Spirit, would, as she 
 kept thereto, be her never-failing helper in 
 every trying season, and support through 
 all the conflict of disease and death. 
 
 During the time of her sickness, she ut- 
 tered many weighty expressions, some of 
 which are as follow : — 
 
 Fifth month, 1815. A few friends being 
 present in her chamber, after a time of si- 
 lence, she uttered some expressions of 
 thanksgiving for divine support, and then 
 added, t( Oh that I had the opportunity to 
 testify to the greatness of the Almighty ; 
 and that it was in my power to impress on 
 the minds of the yolmg people the very 
 o 2 
 
160 
 
 great importance of giving up in early life; 
 that the mind might have a foundation to 
 rest upon in the time of trial, when the 
 world is as nothing." 
 
 At another season she said, that some 
 time back, upon hearing some parts of the 
 New Testament read, respecting our Sa- 
 viour, the query occurred, <c What do I 
 know of a Saviour?" and it was presently 
 followed by the evidence that she had felt 
 a principle in her own mind, which had 
 shewn her what was right and what was 
 wrong ; and that as she attended to it, it 
 would prove a Saviour to her — and then 
 said, these expressions were brought to her 
 remembrance, " To know thee the only 
 true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast 
 sent, is life eternal." 
 
 In the evening of the 19th of Sixth month, 
 she broke forth in supplication thus, " Oh 
 great and glorious Lord, grant me patience 
 that will carry even through the gates of 
 death. Thou knowest that I have endea- 
 voured to serve thee according to my mea- 
 sure ; prepare for me, according to thy 
 eternal goodness, a mansion of rest ; and 
 shorten the time, if consistent with thy holy 
 will." After a few minutes, said, " In all 
 
161 
 
 my trials and deep afflictions I have had 
 refreshing seasons. 5 ' 
 
 On Third-day, the 20th, In a time of 
 great bodily suffering, she said, " I should 
 consider it a favour to be removed in one 
 of these spells, but I am resigned : it is my 
 meat and drink to do his will" — and some- 
 time after expressed, ee Well is it for me, 
 that part of the work was done before such 
 a time as this" — then after a solemn pause, 
 she spoke in commemoration of the Lord's 
 goodness, and in intercession, — "Almighty 
 God ! my soul doth magnify thee, and my 
 spirit rejoiceth in thy salvation — Oh grant 
 that I^may receive daily a portion of thy 
 holy everlasting patience. — I have known 
 a principle within from early life which 
 cendemned for doing wrong, and led to do 
 that which was right ; and have been in- 
 duced at eleven years of age, to leave my 
 pillow with my cheeks bathed with tears, 
 and on my little knees, pray that I might 
 be a good child." 
 
 On the morning of the 23rd, " Oh great 
 and holy Being, be pleased to grant fresh 
 supplies of thy patience : Oh hear the voice 
 of my supplication; be near and uphold 
 me, for I have none in heaven to look un- 
 o 3 
 
162 
 
 to but thee, nor in all the earth in com- 
 parison with thee/' 
 
 Next day being in great pain, she said, 
 cc Oh Lord, be near. Oh, grant me pa- 
 tience — let resignation be my constant 
 theme. Thou art great ; thou art merciful ; 
 thou knowest all my deep afflictions ; thou 
 wilt not try me beyond what I am able to 
 bear; therefore let me bless and praise 
 thee/ 3 A little while after — <c Oh Lord, 
 take me to thyself. Oh Lord, how good 
 art thou to me ; my heart is filled with 
 praises to the high God, who reigneth 
 above with the Lamb forever — Oh the 
 sweet peace." In the afternoon she said, 
 " That glorious presence is not withdrawn, 
 but I believe is near to support my poor, 
 tried, weary, tossed mind ; not tossed with 
 tempest, but weakness : and when it shall be 
 his will to take me hence, I go rejoicingly : 
 If I love and serve him, will he not keep 
 his covenant? yea, most surely." 
 
 On the 25th, she said, " Praise the Lord, 
 
 O my soul, bless his holy name ; glorify 
 
 hini whilst thou art here; sing of his mercy 
 
 and goodness, for they are very great." Iu 
 
 the course of the night, a friend who was 
 
 watching with her, o bserving, that she had 
 
163 
 
 ed need of patience under her great 
 suffering, and that it appeared she was re- 
 markably supplied with it — she replied, <f I 
 am sensible of it, and it is a great mercy ;" 
 and continued nearly in these words : " I 
 have much to be thankful for ; I was visit- 
 ed in very early life, and was enabled to 
 yield to the heavenly visitation — He has 
 been with me all my life long, and does 
 not forsake me in this closing period ; but 
 is graciously pleased, at times, to qualify 
 me under all my bodily sufferings, to com- 
 memorate his marvellous goodness, and to 
 sing praise, high praises to his ever-excel- 
 lent name." 
 
 In the afternoon of the 27th, a few hours 
 before her death, she said, (C Praise the Lord : 
 praise the Lord, O my soul ; praise his 
 great and glorious name — Lean upon him, 
 that thou mayest know him to be thy sup- 
 port in the hour of deep conflict, and to 
 receive thee into the kingdom of everlast- 
 ing rest." After a little time, her close 
 being near, she took leave of her near con- 
 nexions present, and said, cc Lord Almighty, 
 receive my spirit. — Now I am going; don't 
 hold me/' and departed between eleven 
 
164 
 
 and twelve o'clock at night, the 27th of the 
 Sixth month, 1815, in the 28th year of her 
 age. 
 
 Testimony of Woodbury Monthly Meeting 
 respecting John Reeve. 
 
 This onr beloved friend was the son 
 of Joseph and Eleanor Reeve, members of 
 Greenwich particular meeting, in Cumber- 
 land County, New Jersey. From accounts 
 received, he was born in the Fifth month, 
 1729, and his youthful time of life was 
 marked with sobriety, and circumspection 
 of conduct and conversation. He settled 
 within the verge of the above-mentioned 
 meeting, and early became an active and 
 exercised member thereof. As he advanced 
 in life, by being obedient to the manifesta- 
 tions of light and grace, about the 28th 
 year of his age, he came forth in the mi- 
 nistry, to the satisfaction of Friends. 
 
 It appears that at different times, in gos- 
 pel love, he visited the meetings of Friends 
 in New England, New York, Pennsylvania, 
 and New Jersey generally; and some of 
 the meetings in the Southern States. In 
 the year 1793 he removed to reside within 
 
165 
 
 the compass of this Meeting, where his up- 
 right example, reverent waiting and gospel 
 labours amongst us, have been impressive 
 on many minds. 
 
 The latter part of his time, he frequently 
 expressed, that he had served a gracious 
 and good Master ; and was often engaged 
 in religious communication to his family 
 and those about him. He appeared to be 
 quietly waiting for a release from his bodily 
 afflictions, which he bore with remarkable 
 patience and resignation. 
 
 A few days before his departure, after 
 saying, cc I believe I shall not continue ma- 
 ny days and perhaps not many hours/' he 
 expressed a desire to see the family to- 
 gether once more; who being called into 
 the room, he spoke nearly as follows : — 
 " I feel my bodily strength weakening fast, 
 and the lamp of life nearly extinguished." 
 And after speaking affectionately to his 
 wife, said, " Dear children, 1 have endea- 
 voured by precept and example to dis- 
 charge my duty faithfully towards you. I 
 have often interceded with fervent prayers 
 to the fountain of all good, on your behalf: 
 dear children live in love ; live in love and 
 harmony one with another : be kind and 
 
166 
 
 affectionate to one another : you have often 
 been a comfort to me : I commend you to 
 God, and the word of his grace." After 
 which he seemed to revive a little, and 
 some time after said, " I may continue per- 
 haps a few days longer ; but if it should be 
 the Lord's will, I should be glad the time 
 was come to be released : I am not afraid 
 to die : what I am, I am by the mercy of 
 God." And to his wife he said, cc I have 
 prayed that I might have an easy passage, 
 which I now believe will be granted. My 
 sufferings have been great, but they are 
 nearly over." 
 
 The evening before his death he appear- 
 ed fervent in prayer, though scarcely in- 
 telligible ; but (( O Lord my God," and 
 " the dear Redeemer," were several times 
 distinctly heard. He continued until ten 
 o'clock next morning, when he quietly de- 
 parted, the 4th of the First month 1816, IB 
 the 8?th year of his age. 
 
167 
 
 A Memorial of Buckingham and Solebury 
 Monthly Meetings concerning Oliver 
 Paxson. 
 
 This our beloved friend was born in the 
 township of Solebury, Bucks county, Penn- 
 sylvania, in the year 1741 ; and by obe- 
 dience to the visitations of divine kindness, 
 became an active and useful member of re- 
 ligious Society ; diligent and punctual in 
 the attendance of meetings and all other 
 religious appointments from his youth. 
 And being zealously concerned for the 
 cause of Truth, and possessing a sound 
 judgment, was serviceable in the affairs of 
 Society, in which he stood as an upright 
 pillar. 
 
 During several years of the latter part of 
 his life he was much afflicted with an asth- 
 matical complaint, which with some other 
 infirmities so enfeebled him as to confine 
 him much about home: yet he exerted 
 himself to get to his own meeting, though 
 often in great weakness ; frequently ob- 
 serving, {C I never feel better than when 
 assembled with my friends for the purpose 
 of solemn worship. There may yet be 
 much for me to suffer, and I have need to 
 
168 
 
 lay hold of every means of renewing my 
 strength." 
 
 At one of the last Quarterly Meetings of 
 Ministers and Elders which he attended, 
 he was engaged feelingly to excite Friends 
 to an increasing dedication of heart; and 
 in an especial manner, that they labour to 
 feel and maintain the unity of the one Spirit. 
 He also attended the meeting for business; 
 and on his return, observed, (c I felt strong 
 desires to sit with my friends once more in 
 a Quarterly Meeting at this place, and 
 though it has been accomplished through 
 much bodily weakness, I feel thankful I 
 was there." 
 
 For several weeks previous to his close, 
 he was much confined to the house ; suffer- 
 ing, most of the time, extreme pain, from 
 a disease in his limbs, and an increased 
 difficulty in breathing, which prevented his 
 lying down ; yet his mind retained much 
 of its wonted vigour and deep interest in 
 concerns that related to the society at large. 
 On taking leave of some friends who had 
 called to see him, he said, " My love to 
 the cause remains strong, and my interces- 
 sions are at times fervent, that the work of 
 the gospel of peace may go on to the has- 
 
169 
 
 tening of that day, when the earth shall be 
 full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the 
 waters cover the sea." To some friends 
 who expressed a concern at seeing him 
 suffer so much, he replied, sc I have received 
 good at the hand of the Lord, and shall I 
 not receive evil:* nevertheless, I value the 
 sympathy of my friends, and desire that my 
 afflictions be not lightened, or cut short, 
 before the work is done ; but that I may be 
 strengthened to wait in resignation, till my 
 change come." And, though a large por- 
 tion of bodily suffering was meted to him 
 near his close, yet he was favoured to feel 
 the earnest of his petition, his mind being 
 mercifully sustained to the end — sometime 
 before which, he expressed to a near friend, 
 that an undoubted evidence had been 
 vouchsafed to him, that his name was writ- 
 ten in the Lamb's book of life. He con- 
 tinued to decline till the afternoon of the 
 29th of the Tenth month 1817, when he 
 quietly finished his course. 
 
 * Job ii. 10. 
 
no 
 
 Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of Phi- 
 ladelphia, for the Northern District, con- 
 cerning Samuel Smith. 
 
 This,, our dear friend, was born in Bucks 
 county, Pennsylvania, the 2nd of the Fourth 
 month, 1737, old style. His parents, Ro- 
 bert and Phebe Smith, were worthy mem- 
 bers of our religious Society. His father 
 dying' when he was about eight years of 
 age, the care of his early education de- 
 volved on his mother, who appears to have 
 been conscientiously engaged to discharge 
 this important trust ; and her pious care 
 for his preservation seems to have made a 
 strong and durable impression on his mind. 
 
 In a memorandum left by him he ob- 
 serves, (: I was favoured to have a mother 
 who laboured in much love not only to 
 counsel but to restrain from evil ; and 
 sometimes, when the effect was not so ob- 
 vious as she could wish, she would be 
 engaged in fervent prayer that her counsel 
 might be as bread cast on the waters that 
 might be found after many days." 
 
 Submitting to the humbling influence of 
 the power of Truth, he was, even in early 
 
171 
 
 years, preserved in a good degree of inno- 
 cence. 
 
 Being of a delicate constitution and un- 
 able to engage in any laborious occupation, 
 he removed to this city, and about the year 
 1763 married and settled. 
 
 He was one of those who early felt drawn 
 to bear a testimony against the free use of 
 ardent spirits, and the sale of that article 
 being connected with the business in which 
 he was engaged, it became burthensome ; 
 and dwelling near the preserving principle 
 in his own mind, which redeems from a 
 selfish spirit, and inspires not only with 
 love to God, but love to our neighbour, he 
 was strengthened to relinquish the pros- 
 pect of present gain for the more enduring 
 riches of a quiet and approving conscience. 
 
 About the year 1770, having passed 
 through many deep preparatory baptisms, 
 he was concerned to offer a few words in 
 our public meetings as a minister; and by 
 abiding humble and watchful, he grew in 
 his gift; and in obedience to the clear 
 openings of duty, was frequently engaged 
 in religious visits to various parts of this 
 continent. In these engagements lie was 
 particularly cautious that his example and 
 p2 
 
172 
 
 deportment might be consistent with the 
 awful station of a gospel minister. 
 
 Having for a considerable time been ex- 
 ercised with an apprehension of duty to 
 visit the churches in England, and the con- 
 cern increasing in weight and clearness, it 
 was so matured in his own mind, that in the 
 First month 17S9, he spread it before this 
 meeting for its solid consideration ; and 
 having the near sympathy and unity of his 
 friends with his prospect, he shortly after- 
 wards embarked on that service ; and re- 
 turned to his family and friends in the latter 
 part of the year 1791, bringing satisfactory 
 testimonials of his gospel labours in that 
 nation. 
 
 After his return he continued to be much 
 dedicated, both at home and abroad, in en- 
 deavours to promote the cause of Truth and 
 righteousness. 
 
 Being endued with a sound judgment, 
 and observing great care and caution in his 
 movements, he was qualified for a useful 
 labourer in meetings for discipline. 
 
 Jn the year 1799 he again yielded to a 
 concern which had rested some time on his 
 mind, to visit Friends in Great Britain and 
 Ireland; and having the unity and appro- 
 
173 
 
 bation of his friends, he embarked on this 
 weighty service in the Fifth month 1800, 
 and returned in the Eighth month 1801, 
 having, as he expressed, " through divine 
 favour, been enabled to perform this visit to 
 the great consolation of his own mind." 
 
 In his various journies on Truth's ac- 
 count, he was careful to keep so near his 
 guide as to be preserved from exceeding the 
 limits of his concern, or continuing longer 
 from home than the clear manifestations of 
 duty required ; being tenderly solicitous 
 that the ministry should in no respect be 
 burthensome. 
 
 In his temporal concerns he was a good 
 example of moderation, living within the 
 means he possessed, and cautious not to let 
 his mind out in undue pursuit of the things 
 of this world ; thus avoiding those anxious 
 cares which tend to disqualify for faithful 
 attention to religious duties. 
 
 Experiencing through a long life the pre- 
 serving power of the divine principle, he 
 was frequently concerned to bear testimony 
 to its efficacy; and in a small memorandum 
 states, — * Now in the seventy-seventh year 
 of my age, I think it right to subscribe my 
 firm belief to the sacred truth, that obe- 
 yS 
 
i?4 
 
 dienee to (lie dictates of the pure, holy 
 spirit, brings peace and happiness; but 
 disobedience, reproof, correction and trouble 
 — this I have found to be the case through 
 the whole course of my life : and I think I 
 have had this further evidence of the benefit 
 of regarding this divine monitor or principle 
 within, that where I have attended to its 
 secret intimations, even regarding temporal 
 pursuits, 1 have never been suffered to go 
 very deep into perplexing entanglements. 
 Thus safety and happiness will be its blessed 
 effects, both as it regards this life, and no 
 doubt, that which is to come. If I have 
 been favoured to pass through seventy years 
 of life with less difficulties and embarrass- 
 ments than many others, I attribute it to 
 that degree of attention I have paid to this 
 inward monitor; and the greatest per- 
 plexities 1 have ever been in^ have been by 
 neglecting or disregarding it. — Having 
 looked over the foregoing, now in the 
 seventy-eighth year of my age, I can afresh 
 subscribe to the truth of it, and have a 
 comfortable hope that 1 shall be favoured to 
 lay down my head in peace with the supreme 
 Judge and with all men/' 
 
/.> 
 
 His bodily weakness increasing, he was 
 prevented from going much from home, 
 but his love for the cause and testimonies 
 of Truth continued unabated. Having 
 settled his outward affairs,, and looking to- 
 wards his final close, he gave directions 
 concerning his funeral, requesting that no 
 public invitation should be given in any 
 meeting, and that his connexions at a dis- 
 tance should not be sent for; observing 
 that he had long been grieved with the great 
 parade of funerals in this city, among 
 Friends as well as others, and with the 
 entertainments of some in the country at 
 the houses of the deceased, after the inter- 
 ment. 
 
 He continued gradually to decline in 
 health, yet to those who visited him he ap- 
 peared cheerful, and his conversation often 
 conveyed deep religious instruction. 
 
 Towards the latter end of the Eighth 
 month 1817, he was confined to his bed, 
 and passed through much bodily suffering 
 with exemplary patience ; observing, on 
 the evening before his close, " All I can 
 now do is to desire patiently to endure my 
 portion of sufferings, until it shall please 
 
176 
 
 the Master to release me" — adding', " I 
 have not ability now to look into my 
 heart, and my accounts there, but I feel a 
 confidence that mercy and peace will at- 
 tend me." In the morning* of the next 
 day, the 1st of the Ninth month, he quietly 
 departed this life, in the eighty-first year of 
 his age. 
 
ADDENDA 
 
 THE two following Memorials having 
 been approved by the Yearly Meeting, since the 
 foregoing Selection was made, and during its 
 publication, it was concluded to annex them to 
 the work. 
 
 Testimony from the Monthly Meeting of 
 Philadelphia for the Southern District 
 concerning Hannah Fisher. 
 
 She was the daughter of Thomas and 
 Mary Rodman, and was born in Newport, 
 Rhode Island, in the Fourth month 1764. 
 Her father dying 1 when she was very young, 
 the care of a large family devolved upon her 
 mother, to whose exemplary and judicious 
 deportment, our dear friend has often made 
 grateful acknowledgment. This maternal 
 care, co-operating with the tendering im- 
 pressions of divine love with which her mind 
 was early visited, became the means of her 
 preservation in much innocence. Being 
 
178 
 
 married in the year 1793 to our friend 
 Samuel R. Fisher, she became a member of 
 this Monthly Meeting, and through the 
 renewed and humbling baptisms of the 
 divine Spirit, was qualified for usefulness 
 therein. In the year 1800,, after a season of 
 deep exercise, she came forth in the ministry, 
 and being faithful in the little, experienced 
 an enlargement in the gift, to the comfort 
 and refreshment of many. Prom the gene- 
 ral tenor of her conversation and the savour 
 of her spirit, it was evident, that having re- 
 ceived with meekness the engrafted word, 
 and abiding patiently under its influence, 
 she was enabled to bring forth good fruits, 
 — hence flowed, as streams from their pro- 
 per fountain, her exemplary deportment ; 
 her care in frequently reading the Holy 
 Scriptures in the family ; and the faithful 
 testimony which she bore to that plainness 
 and simplicity which our Christian principles 
 lead into — frequently expressing her thank- 
 fulness that she had been enabled to be 
 faithful therein ; adding, tl I have often felt 
 the cross in it, but it has been to me a great 
 means of preservation." 
 
 Her sympathizing spirit was often drawn 
 to visit the afflicted, and qualified to speak a 
 
179 
 
 word in -season to ihe weary. To the poor 
 she was a liberal, judicious, and feeling 
 friend. Her illness was short, but the result 
 was not alarming to her. For several days 
 previous to the solemn close, she was at 
 various times engaged in expressing to the 
 different members of her family and other 
 friends, lively exhortation, tender acknow- 
 ledgment, or pertinent remarks on the ne- 
 cessity of being prepared for the final change. 
 To a friend sitting by her she said; " I have 
 desired that my children may give up in the 
 morning of their day, and join hand in hand 
 with the faithful labourers in the Lord's 
 vineyard ;" adding, <c I feel nothing in my 
 way. I feel thankful in my bed of sickness, 
 that I have given up in the cross to my na- 
 tural inclination, having been favoured to 
 keep the furniture of the house and my 
 clothing plain and simple. " At another 
 time, addressing her children, she saidj 
 " Live in love, my dear children, may you 
 all live in love; it will sweeten every bitter 
 cup ; there is no comfort without it." 
 Again, " All is done, all is done ; I feel so 
 resigned, so sweet, 1 feel as if I were already 
 in heaven/' At another time said, her ill- 
 ness had been a time of suffering to the body 
 
180 
 
 but not to the mind ; that all was comfort- 
 able there ; adding, " What a mercy ! that 
 when the poor body is in sufferings the 
 mind should be preserved in such tranquil- 
 lity/' Her affliction of body appeared to 
 be great; and she once expressed, she 
 thought a part of it might be on account of 
 survivors, that they might see it would not 
 do to put off the day's work until the even- 
 ing ; that it was enough then to have bodily 
 suffering. In the night previous to her 
 close, she said, " Lord I love thee ; Lord 
 thou art with me : I love thee because thou 
 hast heard my supplication . Bless the Lord, 
 O my soul!" About an hour before she 
 ceased to breathe, she sweetly expressed, 
 iC The Lord is with me;" clearly conveying 
 to the minds of those present, her resigna- 
 tion to this allotment of unerring wisdom, 
 and her thankful sense of his supporting 
 arm under it. 
 
 She died the 12th of the Ninth month 
 1819, in the 56th year of her age. 
 
181 
 
 Testimony of Burlington Monthly Meeting 
 concerning George Dillwyn. 
 
 Believing that it may have an animating 
 effect on the minds of survivors, we feel 
 engaged to prepare some account of this 
 our dear deceased friend. 
 
 He was born in Philadelphia the 26th of 
 the Second month 1738 (old style) of pa- 
 rents members of the Soeiety of Friends : 
 and being at an early period of his life 
 deprived of the tender care of one of them, 
 this loss was supplied by the Shepherd of 
 Israel, in qualifying the surviving parent 
 (who judiciously retained her influence in 
 his affections) to watch over him with ma- 
 ternal tenderness for the welfare of his 
 immortal part ; and in the course of time, 
 she was favoured with the comfort of be- 
 holding a son dedicated to the Lord's ser- 
 vice. 
 
 In early life he appears to have had a 
 strong propensity to the vanity of dress and 
 amusements often incident to youth ; but 
 through adorable goodness, the ground 
 which his pious parent had laboured to 
 prepare, was not by the heavenly Husband- 
 
182 
 
 man left unproductive, for he became qua- 
 lified to bring forth much fruit. 
 
 He was engaged in mercantile pursuits 
 for some years, which terminated in dis- 
 appointment and loss ; but such was the 
 integrity of his mind, that lie carefully 
 retrenched his expenses, so that no man 
 suffered loss by him. Thus, through the 
 renewed visitations of divine grace, which 
 led him to do justly, love mercy, and walk 
 humbly, the strong will of man was so far 
 subjected to the humbling power of Truth, 
 that his afflictions were productive of a 
 blessed effect. Having experienced in a 
 degree his robes to be washed, he was 
 called to the work of the ministry, and 
 appeared therein about the 28th year of 
 his age. 
 
 Endowed with a comprehensive and pe- 
 netrating mind, which being sanctified by 
 the great Head of the church, he was made 
 eminently useful in promulgating the glad 
 tidings of the gospel of peace extensively 
 on this continent ; and being earnestly en- 
 gaged to keep his eye single to the point- 
 ings of his divine Master, who had called 
 him to the work, he felt drawn to pay a 
 religious visit to parts of Great Britain, 
 
183 
 
 Ireland, Holland, Germany, and the south 
 of France. Having obtained certificates of 
 free concurrence from the Meetings of 
 which he was respectively a member, he 
 embarked in the year 1784, and continued 
 to be engaged in that service, much to the 
 satisfaction of his friends in Europe, as ap- 
 pears from ample testimonials produced by 
 hi in on his return to his native land in 
 1791. 
 
 Our beloved friend remained a member 
 of this Meeting, holding up an instructive 
 and animating example of dedication to 
 the work of the ministry, until the spring 
 of 1793 ; when, apprehending it to be his 
 religious duty, he removed with his wife to 
 reside in Great Britain, having obtained 
 from his brethren here a certificate for that 
 purpose. During his stay there it appears 
 he continued to labour, as he was furnish- 
 ed with ability, to the edification of the 
 churches. Feeling his mind released from 
 further service in that country, he returned 
 to Burlington in 1802, with a satifactory 
 certificate, where he continued to reside 
 until the close of his useful life ; and hav- 
 ing been as a faithful servant, diligent in 
 the morning and meridian of his day, he 
 Q2 
 
184 
 
 was permitted to pass his declining years 
 much in retirement, seldom going from 
 home, yet with exemplary care attending 
 with his family the particular meetings of 
 which he was a member ; saying, that " he 
 did not find his meetings did him much 
 good, if he could reflect upon having left 
 any person in his service unnecessarily at 
 home." 
 
 In his private life he was a bright ex- 
 ample ; daily evincing a concern to live 
 near the spring of divine Grace ; and in 
 social intercourse with his friends, he was 
 remarkable for the sweetness of his spirit 
 aud conversation. He had been usually 
 exempt from bodily pain even in advanced 
 age, until the 3d of the Second month 1820, 
 when on his way to meeting (the ground 
 being covered with sleet) he fell and frac- 
 tured the hip bone; the attendant pain 
 being very distressing, and every exertion 
 failing to afford relief; a state of deep suf- 
 fering ensued ; his exercised mind was 
 tempted, tried, and afflicted, as he express- 
 ed, beyond what he had ever before known, 
 and his concern was, that he might be en- 
 abled to wait in deep abasement until light 
 should arise upon his dwelling. Thus he 
 
IS5 
 
 past nearly five months of great bodily suf- 
 fering, and seasons of close mental conflict, 
 through all which the Christian character 
 shone with brightness ; and although the 
 general clothing of his mind was baptism 
 and exercise, yet it was grateful to observe, 
 within the last two or three weeks of his 
 life., acknowledgments of consoling relief. 
 At one time he expressed, cc I find there is 
 a comfort over which disease has no pow- 
 er/' And at another, after a favoured 
 opportunity of religious retirement, " Now 
 I am prepared to adopt the language — Lo, 
 the winter is past, the rain is over and 
 gone, the flowers appear on the earth, the 
 time of the singing of birds is come, and 
 the voice of the turtle is heard in our land/' 
 
 For some days before his close, his frame 
 being much weakened by continued pain, 
 he was confined mostly to his bed, often 
 desiring to be kept quiet ; he was evidently 
 engaged in secret intercession ; and ex- 
 pressed his belief that there was a mansion 
 prepared for him. 
 
 The morning of the 23d of Sixth month 
 he lay quiet, being less affected by pain ; a 
 little after noon he reposed to sleep, in 
 which state, without any apparent motion 
 
186 
 
 except a slight movement of those lips 
 which had lately been employed in ac- 
 knowledging himself a monument of divine 
 mercy, his spirit was released. 
 
 How instructive is the contemplation of 
 such a life,, extended to more than 82 years, 
 the greater part of which appears to have 
 been abstracted from worldly pursuits,, and 
 dedicated to the noblest of purposes, re- 
 plete with desire of gathering souls unto 
 God, and expanding with Christian bene- 
 volence to the whole human family. 
 
 His remains were interred in Friends' 
 burial ground in Burlington, the 25th of 
 Sixth month 1820. 
 
 THE END, 
 
INDEX< 
 
 126 
 181 
 
 Preface 
 
 Armitt, Mary 
 
 Brown, Samuel 
 
 Coope, John 
 
 Dell, Richard 
 Dillwyn, George 
 Drinker,Elizabeth 53,55 
 
 Emlen, James 87 
 
 Emlen, Samuel 96 
 
 Evans, Deborah 158 
 
 Evens, Joshua 89 
 
 Fell, William 31 
 
 Fisher, Hannah 177 
 
 Gibbons, Abraham 109 
 
 Haines, Margaret 39 
 
 Harris, James 91 
 
 Heald, Joanna 5 
 
 Hoskins, John 147 
 
 House, Elizabeth 25 
 
 Hutton, Samuel 44 
 
 Lamborn, Dinah 134 
 
 Lay, Philena 81 
 
 Lindley, Hannah 83 
 
 Page | 
 
 iii I Lindley, Jacob 
 
 28 Mifflin, Warner 
 Miller, Ebenezer 
 118 
 
 115 
 
 Offley, Daniel 
 
 Page 
 
 149 
 
 103 
 106 
 
 33 
 
 Parrish, John 130 
 
 Paxson, Oliver 167 
 
 Pemberton, John 58, 68 
 Pusey, Joshua 128 
 
 Reeve, John 
 Reeve, Mark 
 Ross, Thomas 
 
 164 
 21 
 
 8, 10 
 
 Savery, William 121 
 
 Scattergood, Thos. 151 
 
 Simpson, John 143 
 
 Smith, Samuel 170 
 
 Stephenson, Sarah 111 
 
 Stevenson, Mary 23 
 
 Thornton, James 46 
 
 Williams, Charles 42 
 
 Yarnall, Eli 
 Yarnall, Peter 
 
 Zane, Isaac 
 
 139 
 75 
 
 37 
 

 Londojs: Printed by W. Phillips, George Yard, Lombard Street, 
 

 

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