BX 7795 .N4 A3 1845 Neale, Samuel, 1729-1792. Some account of the lives and religious labours of Brr ttOB \ \ I AND CHIEPLV THE PRODUCTIONS OP EARLY MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETY OF FRIENDS ; INTENDED TO ILLDSTUATE THE SPIRITUAL CHARACTER OF THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST. First Edited by the late The kingdom of Qod is not in word but in power. — I CoR. iv. 20. CHARLES GILPIN, BISHOPSGATE WITHOUT. MDCCCXLV. UcO i.. SOME ACCOUN OP THE LIVES AND RELIGIOUS LABOURS OP SAMUEL NEALE, AND MARY NEALE, FORMERLY MARY PEISLEY, BOTH OF IRELAND. % iStto lEBition, consiBcrablo enlargtW. " Be ye foUowera of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises." — Heb. vi. 13. " By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, honour, and life."— ProTerbs xxii . 4. *' Blessed is the man that heareth me (Wisdom), watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. For whoso findeth me, findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the lord. '— Proverbs viii. 34, 35. LONDON: C. GILPIN, 5, BISHOPSGATE STREET WITHOUT. 1845. KICHAaO BAURETT, PllINTEB, MAKK LAJIK. PREFACE. The present volume contains a re-print of the Lives and Religious Laboiu-s of Samuel and Mary Neale, formerly Jlary Peisley, of Ireland, — the former from the First Edition which was published at Dublin in 1805; the latter from that of 1795, also published at Dublin. Considerable additions to Samuel Neale's Journal have been introduced from the original manu- script, and from his unpublished Letters ; many valuable Letters of Mary Peisley's have also been added from the private collections of various Friends who have kindly furnished them. After stating thus much, it seems due to inform the Reader, that as it was the humble endeavour of the Editor (A. R. Barclay), according to ability received, to carry on the design of his late dear brother J. B. in continuHji the Select Series, for the revival of the ancient \^y-marks and tlie upholding of the pure testimony of the Trutii as embraced by the faithful of former generations, and still delivered to us their successors — and the union of these two valuable Journals being not only intended by J. B., but it appears also to have been anticipated by S. iv PRRFACE. Neale himself — he (the Editor) w.as encouraged to prepare the whole of the Work, and had committed a part (S. Neale) to the press, when, in the ordering of inscrutable Wisdom, he was removed from works to rewards early in the Second Month last, proving the necessity for diligence in that allotment of ser- vice required at our hands by the Great and Good Master ! But the AVork being so far completed, it seemed desirable that it should bo carried on and finished, which has been done as nearly according to his design as could be, — and it is sincerely hoped, that the united examples of these faithful servants, in humility and devotedness to the Best of masters, may encourage and animate others to seek for abi- lity to " follow their faith, considering the end of their conversation : Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and to-day, and for ever !" Uh of Fifth Month, 184.'5. CONTENTS. Life of Samuel Neale. PA6E. Chapter I. Samuel Neale— His education— Early life — Powerful visitation of Di^^ne love — and conversion — His appearance in the ministry . 1 Chapter II. Joins WiUiam Brown from America, in a visit to some parts of England, Holland, and Germany — Visits the West of England — Attends the Yearly Meeting in London . .17 Chapter III. Returns to Dublin — Residence near Rathangau meeting — Attends London Yearly Meeting, 1756 — Thence travels into Scotland — Returns home . 37 Chapter IV. His marriage with Mary Peisley — Her sudden illness and death .... 50 Chapter V. Visit to Munster, and some parts of Leinster— Visit to Wales, and some meetings in England 70 Chapter VI. At Lancaster Quarterly Meeting — South Wales— Visits meetings in Ireland — Marriage to Sarah Beale 92 vi CONTENTS. PAQE. Chaptek VII. Visits parts of England and Wales 109 Chapter VIII. Quarterly Meeting at Waterford — Attends Yearly Meeting in London, 1766 — Also that of 1768, &c 125 Chapter IX. He sails for America Eighth Month, 1770 — Landed Tenth Month near Philadelphia — Accompanies Joseph Oxlcy — Travels exten- sively amongst Friends in the Southern States — Returns to Philadelphia 150 Chapter X. Attends Yearly Meeting at Philadel- phia, 1771 — Meetings in Nantucket — New Eng- land — New York — Returns to Philadelphia, 1772 — Sails for Ireland — Arrives at Waterford 176 Chapter XI. Remains at home for several years — Religious visit to Friends in and about London, &c. — Various services in his own country . 1 93 Chapter XII. Attends the Yearly Meeting in London, in 1784 — Religious services in Ireland continued — Death of Sarah R. Grubb at his house — Conclusion of his Journal — Testimony concerning him from Cork Monthly Meeting 213 The Life of Mauy Neale formerly Mary Peisley 229 SOME ACCOUNT OF THE LIFE AND RELIGIOUS LABOURS OP SAMUEL NEALE, WHO DIED AT COHK IN IRELAND IN THE YEAR 1702. WRITTEN BY HIMSELF, TOGETHER WITH LETTERS ADDRESSED TO HIS FRIENDS. ■a 'NttD liSitiDn, consiCttabls cnlatgtU. LONDON: 1845. PREFACE TO THE FIRST EDITION. It is hoped that the extracts contained in this little volume, taken from journals and other manuscripts of our late Friend, may if seriously perused, be found instructive. Although vvritten in great simplicity, yet it is evident they proceeded from a mind under the influence of Divine Love, so operating as to preserve in humble dependence upon its holy efl&cacy, and pro- ducing the language of, " Glory to God in the highest? and on earth peace, good will towards men." They are published with the view of preserving and rendering useful such parts of his writings, as were thought most likely to impress the reader with a sense of the goodness of the IMost High towards the workmanship of his hands ; and to draw into a con- sideration of the operation of His Grace, " that bringeth salvation, and hath appeared unto all men," which as co-operated with, is found to be a con- vincing, converting, eflficacious principle; of which the example before us is a striking instance. This Grace is the appointed means whereby all may be X PREFACE TO THE FIRST EDITION. brought out of darkness, into marvellous light ; and unto the saving knowledge of " the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom he hath sent." Seeing the advantage of an early and entire sur- render to heavenly visitation, (whether it be more powerful as in this instance, or as a " seed," " the least of all seeds," which if suffered to grow, would gradually produce a change equally Iiappy) let a wise choice be made ; and the danger of protracting the essentially necessary work of the soul's salvation averted ; that whether in youth, mature age, or advanced life, the affecting language may not im- press the mind, " the harvest is past, the summer is ended, and I am not saved." " The memory of the just is blessed," and the rela- tion of their experiences may encourage the Christian traveller steadily to persevere in faith and patience to the end ; that so his termination here may be peace- ful, and his cliange glorious. THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. CHAPTER I. SAMUEL NEALE HIS EDUCATION EARLY LIFE POWERFUL VISITATION OP DIVINE LOVE AND CONVERSION HIS APPEARANCE IN THE MINISTRY. I WAS bom in the city of Dublin, the 9th day of the Ninth Month, 1729. My parents were Thomas and Martha Neale, who removed shortly afterwards into the compass of Edenderry Monthly Meeting. About the sixth year of my age, my mother died ; soon after, my father removed to America, and left me, with a brother and two sisters, under the care and guardianship of my uncle and grandmother ; who were very tender of us, gave us such schooling as that neighbourhood afforded, and took care of our morals and conduct. In a few years my grandmother died, and left us under the care of our uncle ; who removed to Christians-town, in the county of Kildare. My grandfather had purchased an estate, which he left to me, if I should survive my father, which accordingly came to pass, he dying when I was about seventeen years of age. In my early years, though deprived of my parents, the Lord my God was near, and took me up, and at times moved upon my spirit and melted my heart, before I well knew what it was that affected me. B 2 THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. ^1729 tO AVhen very young and capable of reading the Scrip- tures, and other writings tending to instruct me in that which was good and profitable, I felt my spirit tendered ; and I enjoyed a sweetness of mind that made me very sedate and grave, and often the tears would run down my cheeks. In these seasons I felt myself very comfortable ; and had a belief that I was seen l)y the all-wise Creator, who knew all things : but sucli impressions soon wore off, and tlie levity of my natural disposition got into dominion, when amongst my ])lay-fellows. Thus I went on for some time ; when I was attacked by the small-pox : it reduced me very low, and few thought I shoidd recover. In tliis disorder, I thought I was not fit to die, and therefore entered into cove- nant, that if tlie Lord wcjuld bring me through, I would be more careful of my words and actions than ever I had been before. I still remember some of the prospects I had when lying on that sick bed : but it pleased infinite Goodness to raise me up. I was tiien about my twelfth year ; and after this, though I often remembered my covenant, yet my natural propensity to youtliful follies and annisements prevailed much, and stifled the good resolutions I liad formed ; so tliat, not keeping to the sense that was awakened in my mind, I too nnich forgot the visitations with wliich I liad been favoured from tlie gracious Hand of merciful Iielp : and not being enough restrained, I took liberties in hunting, coursing, and shooting, wliereby I was introduced into uii])r()fital)]e comi)any, wliicli often lays a foim- dation for repentance. As I grew in years my passion for these anmsemcnts increased, so that I was huiTied on, as with a torrent, into irregularities that lead to tlie chambci-s of death. 1751.] THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. 3 Thus I continued till my father's death, which as already mentioned, was about my seventeenth year ; near which time I had a dawn of sense given me, that my life was very unprofitably spent. I knew but little of business, and was desirous of being placed in some line of life, by which I might be enabled, in addition to my income, to live reputably amongst men, and follow up some occupation, so as to be kept out of idleness : in consequence whereof, when about eighteen years of age, I was placed with a merchant in Dublin, a very sensible humane man, to serve him till I should be twenty-one. In this situation I was as much, or more exposed than before ; for having money of my own, I contracted acquaintance with many young people in that city, very injurious to my growth in that which was good. Being remarkably active and strong, and excelling most in a variety of bodily exercises, it made me vain ; and emulation prompted me to endanger my health, by abusing the strength with which Providence had endued me for better purposes. In this time of servitude I got intimate with several young men in the college, I believe some of the most moral that were tliere ; and I took liberties incon- sistent with the principles in which I was educated. We sometimes frequented the play-house, and after these amusements, when on my return home, 0 ! the anxiety and remorse that covered my mind and over • whelmed my spirit ! I was then willing to covenant to be more careful in future, and avoid what now seemed so distressing : but when those seasons of diversion approached, I felt my inclination to arise with redoubled sti'ength, and my passion for gratifpng it, like an irresistible torrent, insurmountable : so I went, like a man B 2 4 TDE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. (^1729 tO bereft of understanding. When all was over, I was ready to accuse myself as one of the weakest of mortals, and to deplore my unsteadiness and want of resolution. Thus I continued for a considerable part of the three years I spent in Dublin sinning, and de])loring my weakness and the commission of those things that afterwards stung like a serpent and bit like an adder. At particular times when sitting in meetings, I was sensible of the virtue of Truth, and was verj' much brouglit down and humbled in my mind : but my associates would cry out, ' This is a religious fit, — come let us take a coacli and go to the Park, Black-rock, or some such place, and drive it away.' Thus the convictions of the good Spirit were counteracted by those who were not subject to its government, but were agents to him, who rules in the children of dis- obedience, and keeps in bondage and darkness. I remember in an aftei-noon meeting a valuable Friend was concerned to speak in a prophetic line, — that the Lord would visit the youth, and pour forth of his Spirit upon them, and raise up Samuels for Himself. I tiiought she looked steadily towards mc, and her words made a deep impression on me. Hut endeavours were used that same evening to eradicate these impressions, which through weakness and frailty were but too successful ; so that I feared I should never be able to stand my ground, and was almost persuaded to give over striving. lint my gracious and good Lord still followed me with his loving-kindness, and at times created a hope tliat I might overcome the enemies of my own house : and in time, blessed be his holy Name, I felt strength to resist tlieir wiles and insinuations ; — but alas ! I had many combats. 1751.]] THE LIFE OP SAMUEL NEALE. 5 I well remember a remarkable dream, which had a very great eifect upon me : — I thought the enemy of all good came and attacked me violently, that we wrestled a considerable time, and I was in great conflict ; he brought me to my knees, but still could not tlirow me down, and after much struggling he vanished. I awoke, and my shirt was as if dipped in water, ft'om the agony of this conflict ; though I was young, it made a great impression on me, and since that time I have seen my dream fulfilled. But for the inter- position of the Lord's mercies, I should have been long since overthrown, and become a cast-away : — great are His mercies, — He still continues to be long- suifering, and abundant in goodness and truth to poor rebellious man : striving by His good Spirit to draw him from sin and iniquity, and calling him as out of EgA^tian darkness and bondage, to come into the glorious liberty of being his son ; — as is expressed in sacred writ, " Out of Egypt have I called my son." Though this alludes to our blessed Lord's coming out of Egypt, when his life was sought by Herod, it also may be applicable to mankind in general, in sin and in their natural state, which may be justly styled Egyptian darkness and bondage ; — to whom the call is, by the Spirit of our Lord Jesus, to come out of this sinful state, witness the new birth, and be baptized by His pure spiritual baptism, that of the Holy Ghost and fire ; wliich purges the floor of the heart, brings into newness of life, and makes it a temple where acceptable prayer is oflered up, by the power and excellent working of the pure Truth, which prepares every acceptable sacrifice, in our devotion and religious exercises during our pil- grimage through this world. Thus I went on, between hope and fear, the 6 THE LIFE OF SAMrEL NEALE. [1720 tO remainder of my apprenticeship ; my frailties often precipitatinor me to the verge of niin. During this time I had a visitation from the Most High, by a fever and ague, whicli brought me very low ; my former covenant appeared fresh in my remembran(;e, and I was now afraid to ask, because before I did not perform. I continued for some time in a low condition, imtil infinite Goodness restored me once more to health, to try my fidelity ; Ijut, to my shame and confusion, I ran into greater evils than ever : thus ungrateful and hardhearted, I could fully subscribe to that declaration, " The lieart of man is deceitful above all things, and desper.ately wicked:" — I seemed running the full length of my chain. My conviction and remorse were at times strong ; but company and the levity of my temper quenched tliese convictions, and I went on towards destruction, in rebellion and disobedience against the divine Monitor, which, in boundless mercy, still followed me. I continued in this state imtil I was my own master ; when, intending to pay a visit into Munster, to form acquaintances and follow some business, I prepared for my journey, equipped like a young man of the world, had a livery servant, and set forward in good spirits on my expedition. As I passed along, I called at Paddock, where Mary Peisley lived, to inquire after her liealth and that of the family : my uncle Samuel Neale accompanied me. We made some little stay there, and I found myself delighted with their instructive conversation : it sunk into my mind beyond what was common ; and when wc left the place, I remarked how pleasing sucli conqiany and conversation were, compared with what was generally to be met with. 1751.] THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. 7 I pursued my journey to Limerick, where I stayed some days witli my relation John Tavemer : here I fell into very dissipated company, old acq^uaintances that I liad in Dublin. From thence I proceeded to Cork, and on the road felt my mind impressed with solid reflections, whicli I have since thought prepa- ratory to what soon followed ; for I was conscious that my weakness and fiailties were great, my time i-unning swiftly away, and I was irresolute with respect to standing against temptation and the allure- ments of sin, and sin-pleasing pleasures. In this dis- position I reached Cork, and there mingled with my old acquaintances, and got new ones. I remember being at a play one evening, up late that night, and lying pretty long next morning, which was First-day, an acquaintance asked me to go to meeting, and at the same time informed me there were strangers to be there, telling me who they were ; I said I would, for at my worst state I gene- rally attended meetings. So to meeting I went, and it was a memorable one to me : for in it my state was so opened to that highly favoured instrument in the Lord's hand, Catherine Payton (who with my beloved friend IMary Peisley were visiting the churches,) that all I had done seemed to have been unfolded to her in a wonderfid manner. I was as one smitten to the ground, dissolved in tears, and without spirit. This was a visitation from the Most High, beyond all others that I had as yet witnessed ; I was so wTought upon by the power and Spirit of the holy Jesus, that like Saul, I was ready to cry out ; " Lord, what wouldest thou have me to do ?" I was almost ashamed to be seen, being so bedewed with tears, and slunk away from the meeting, to get into a private place. I joined company with a 8 THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. Q1729 tO religious young man, and forsook my gay companions and associates, who beheld me with astonishment. The change was very rapid, and my doubts and fears respecting myself were very great, so that I could not trust myself in my former company, lest my innumerable frailties should prove too ]io\verful for all my good resolutions. So I abode still and quiet, and kept near these messengers of glad tidings to me. I went with them to Bandon and Kinsale ; and the same powerful dispensation of divine virtue followed me, breaking in upon me, and tendering my spirit in a wonderful manner, in public meetings as well as in private oj)portunities ; which drew the attention and observation of many. When I returned to Cork, I kept as private as I well could, and resolved to quit all my worldly pursuits, and follow the gentle lead- ings of that heavenly Light, which shewed me the vanity of worldly glory, and that the pleasures of sin are but as for a moment. Our beloved friends intended for the province meeting at Limerick, and took Kilcomnion meeting in their way, wliither they went : — I also went ; and a considerable degree of concern grew in my mind, both by day and by night. Their com- pany was precious to me, their conduct and conver- sation strengthening ; and the inward manifestations of heavenly goodness vouchsafed, were my crown and rejoicing. My eyes were measurably opened to be- hold my insignificancy, rebellion and backsliding : I saw the perversencss of my nature, and that in me, as man, there dwelt no good thing. I thouglit I saw that if I missed tin; present ()])poi-tunity of coming as out of Babylon, I was lost for ever : I was come to the length of my chain, my measure was full, and if I did not embrace the present offer, ruin and 1751.] THE LIFE OP SAMUEL NEALE. 9 destruction would be my portion. These sights of my condition stimulated me to exert myself in watch- fulness and care, to pursue with ardency the sense that opened in my own mind, and to feel after the spring and virtue that I witnessed there, which far exceeded every gratification that I knew before in this life. My hunger and thirst after righteousness were great : I delighted much in reading and retirement ; worldly things had no channs for me at this season, when the new creation began to dawn : although, at times, I felt that the mount of Esau was on fire, and the consuming thereof hard to bear, yet it was neces- sary, in order that I might witness a new heaven and a new earth, wherein alone righteousness can dwell. I went with these Friends to many meetings, and still heavenly good attended me, which encouraged me to persevere and resolve to be stedfast. I was very comfortable in this good company, and in that of valuable Friends where I came : but the time drew near when I must be separated from them ; and though it was a very heavy trial upon me to leave those Friends, who as instruments, were exceedingly helpful and beneficial to me in my weak state, yet I concluded to return ; and accordingly took leave of my beloved fellow-travellers, and turned my face towards home, which was then in Dublin. This was about the middle of the siimmer of 1751, and in the twenty-second year of my age. I jour- neyed homeward in great heaviness ; fear seized on me, lest I should not be able to stand my ground amongst my intimates and acquaintances, professors and profane; being well known in that great and populous city, and having liad many proofs of my own unsteadiness and forgetfulness, when heretofore I 10 THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. [1751. favoured witli tlic tendering convictions of Truth on niy mind. At times I liad thoughts of leaving the kingdom, and residing in England, near some valuable experienced Friends, where I might be safer than amongst my acquaintances in my own country, who so often allured and drew me from the paths of purity, into the pursuit of lying vanities. Tluis I reasoned with flesh and blood : but I was instructed to see, that He who visited me, was able to pre- serve me, if I would but be subject and obedient to His wholesome instruction ; and th.at where I had dishonoured Him by my inconsistencies, there, by my fidelity to the law He writes in the heart, I might honour and confess Him before men. These intimations quieted my mind, and I resolved to meet ridicule, reviling, and even persecution itself, for the sake of Him, whom I was resolved to follow, as I felt strength. In this state of mind I returned to Dublin, and kept pretty quiet, attended meetings, and mingled with a few select Friends. In this my weak state I frequently went through bye-ways and lanes, to avoid my old acquaintances, feeling the cross heavy when I met them and spoke the jdain language, as many young people educated in our Society also do : this is much to be regretted, for it was the language spoken by our blessed Lord and his discijjlcs, l)y the patriarchs and pro])hcts, and our principles strictly enjoin us to speak it to all men ; but alas ! many are imfaithful, which makes thcin unfruitful in works of righteousness. This brings to my remembrance a passage in my experience, which may be of some use when I shall be no more. AVhen I was with my old master T. S. as an apprentice, he had occasion to pay rent to the 1751.] THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. 11 Bishop of Cloghcr for one of his correspondents : I was sent w ith the money, and addressed the Bisliop, not as thongh I was one called a Qnaker. He took but little notice of me ; I thought he treated me rather with contempt : it stung me to think I played the coward, and was ashamed to address him as a Quaker ; I tliereforc entered into an engagement that if ever I went awain, I would address him in the plain language. The season came that I was to go, and I was warned in my mind to remember my en- gagement. I went in some degree of fear ; he was just stepping into his coach to go into the country : when I addressed him as a Quaker, he very politely received me, and treated me as if I had been his equal. When I had done my business, I returned with a pleasure far transcending any thing I had felt before, for such an act of obedience : I thought I could leap as an hart, I felt such inward joy, satisfaction, and conso- lation. So that I would have the beloved youth mind their Guide, and not dishonour that of God in them ; for as we are faithful in a little, we shall be made rulers over more ; and we shall have more of the praise even of men, by keeping to our religious principles, and be in higher esteem by those in authority, as our forefathers were. I stayed in Dublin amongst my friends, attending meetings constantly, and sometimes jnet a select num- ber at Samuel .Judd's, where I was often refreshed and comforted ; the Lord was pleased to be with me, contriting my spirit and humbling me under His mighty hand. The mount of Esau was still on fire, which at times was very affecting and hard to be borne ; and were it not for the Divine hand tliat sus- tained, I could not have abode the fierceness of the furnace : but it is a gradual work and must be accom- 12 THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. ^1751. plished ; the kingdom of sin and Satan must be destroyed, before the kingdom of the holy Jesus becomes established in the hearts of men. The house of Saul grew weaker and weaker, and the house of David stronger and stronger, until it became established : so, in a religious sense, conversion is a gradual work ; the sinful nature declines through the efficacy of the baptism of the Holy Ghost and fire, which purges the floor of the heart, and makes it a fit temple for the Spirit of the Son of God to dwell in. This causes a strong combat, a severe con- flict, in which the poor creature suffers deep probation and tribuLation ; but it is the way to virtue and glory, and is the heavenly prej)arer of paths to walk in acceptably to God : who, gradually canying on His own work in the midst of sufiiiring, visits by His life-giving presence to animate, cheer, and enable the drooping soul to hold on its way ; and so by this invisible and glorious work the day of redemption draws nigh, and the poor pilgrim goes from strength to strength, and from one degree of experience to another, rejoicing in the Lord Jeiiovah, the God of the spirits of all flesh, until tiie work be completed : then the poor traveller can say, — " It is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that slioweth mercy :" it is He that works, both to will and to do of His good pleasure, by His holy Spirit, as the temple is clean and is kept in that state, which is only to be done, as we take heed to the power and Spirit of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Captain of our salvation, watciiing and praying th.at we enter not into temptation : then, and not till then, will the temple of our lieart be clean. After I had spent some time in Dublin, my dear friend Garratt Van Hassen, having an inclination to 1751.J THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE, ' 13 go to Moiintnicllick, to see Friends therc-away in their families, I felt an inelination to accompany liim, of which he seemed glad. When there, he was joined by James Gough, and they invited me to sit witli them in the families they visited. I was sensible of Divine good in most of the families, and had some openings similar to those spoken of by them in their religious communications, which was a strength to my mind. I remember in one family there was nothing said, no openings in ministry, and in that family my mind was much shut up, I felt no openings of light or com- fort ; which made me beliave I had something of a sense such as these worthy Friends had, and this was some encouragement to me in my infant state. I kept on with them in the service until they had con- cluded ; in general I was favoured in spirit, being often tendered and contrited before the Lord Almighty, and, I hope, strengthened in living experience. On our return we called at Christians-town, and stayed a few nights there, where I met with a remarkable occurrence ; I had been used in former times to walk out with my gun and dog ; it was a retired way of amusing myself, in which I thought there was no harm : and reasoning after this manner, though I was very thoughtful about leading a new life, yet I now went out as formerly. I remember I shot a brace of woodcocks, and on my return home it rained, and I went to shelter myself by a stack of com ; when it struck my mind as an impropriety, thus to waste my time in this way of amusement, so I returned rather heaAy-hearted. Dear Garratt and I lodged together ; and next morning he asked me if I was awake, I told him I was ; ' I have something to say to thee,' said he ; I bid him say on. ' It has been,' said he,' as if an angel had spoken to me, to bid thee put 14 THK LIFE OP SAMUEL NEALE. [1751. away thy gun ; I believe it is proper that thou sliouhlest put away that amusement.' To this purport he sj)oke ; and that same night I dreamed that it was said to me, intelligibly in my sleep, that if I would be a son of righteousness, I must put away my gun, and sueh amusements : it made a deep impression on my mind, and I concluded to give up every thing of the kind, and take up my daily cross, and follow the leadings of the J^amb, who takes away the sins of the world. We returned to Dublin soon after ; and I stayed there, attending meetings, and keeping as much as I well could in solitude ; until dear Joseph Tomey, feel- ing a concern to visit a few meetings in the country, I was made willing to accompany him. In tiiis jour- ney, I was under a deep exercise of mind, and great strugglings between flesh and sj)irit, which none fully knew but the good Spirit that searcheth all things, and comprchendctli all states and conditions. We went to Ballitorc, and into the county of Carlow. Joseph was clothed with great authority in his minis- try ; and was made a nursing father to me in this little journey by day and by nigiit, for wc lay much awake, in great tenderness and contrition of spirit ; so that I may indeed say, I watered my pillow with my tears. I felt something like a fire in my breast that glowed with uncommon heat : it gradually in- creased, and was shut up there, till we ciime to Mount- rath meeting ; where, as I sat, 1 felt a great concern to say a few words, which deeply affected my whole frame, and made me tremble exceedingly. After much reasoning I yielded obedience, which gave me great ease ; my ])cacc flowed abundantly, and I seemed quite in anotlier state. My com])anion had an excellent opportunity to preach the gospel to the 1751.]] TDE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. 15 people, and the meeting ended in a very solemn frame. This was the ICth of tlie Twelfth Month, 1751. My beloved friend 3Iary Peisley was present at tliis awful dedication of tlie temple of my heart, and I believe had great sjTnpathy with me, being deeply experienced in the way and working of Truth, and an eminent instrument in tlie Lord's hand for pro- moting truth and righteousness amongst men. After this I kej)t very still and quiet, was much inward with the Spirit in my own heart, and delighted in reading and meditation. We went from Mountrath to Edenderry, and were there at a marriage : there were several people at it besides Friends. I went in much fear to this meet- ing, but I was helped to bear my testimony, and my companion had an excellent open season amongst them. We went from Edenderry to Dublin, where I had much reasoning with flesh and blood, such as, what would the people think or say of such an one as I, who had been a gay young man, a libertine and a persecutor of the holy Jesus in his spiritual appear- ance, to appear now as a preacher of righteousness. When the meeting day came, my fears increased, and in this state I went to meeting ; it was on a First-day, there was a very large gathering, amongst whom were divers of my associates and old com- panions. I was concerned to bear my testimony, which I did in great fear and trembling : the subject was Paul's conversion ; — "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me ?" It was spoken in gi-eat brokenness, — I did not say much, but it had an extraordinary reach over the meeting ; many present wept aloud, and for a considerable space of time. After meeting I endea- voured to get away unperceived, though one man (not of our Society) caught me in his arms and 16 THE LIFE OP SAMUEL NEALE. [1751. embraced me. Thus was I sustained and strengtli- encd in my setting out in the work of the ministry ; and had an evidence that the people were much reached, and powerfully affected that day. After- wards I waded through divers exercises, and felt deep baptisms attend me for my further purification, and on account of the people, whose states I must feel, if I ministered aright. 1751.]] THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. 17 CHAPTER II. JOINS WILLIAM BROWN FROM AMERICA, IN A VISIT TO SOME PARTS OF ENGLAND, HOLLAND, AND GERMANY VISITS THE WEST OF ENGLAND AT- TENDS THE YEARLY MEETING IN LONDON. [Twelfth Month, 1751.] — About this time dear WilHam Brown arrived from America, a faithful minister and an experienced elder, who wanted a companion. I w-as spoken to on the subject ; and, after receiving the advice of my friends, and feeling my way open, I agreed to go with him ; this I hope proved a blessing to me. [During his stay in Dublin, preparing for his journey, he laboured faithfully in the vineyard.] He remarks : — There seemed an open door : the change in me awakened the minds of several of the youth, who were greatly struck with it ; and indeed it was a day of visitation to many. We left Dublin in the First Month, 1752, and visited the several meetings of Friends through this nation, both in the particular and province meetings, as they occurred in our way ; holding meetings also in divers places, where there were none of our Society resident. We had to experience that the God of our forefathers manifests Himself to be near those, whom He commissions and sends forth as sheep among wolves ; and that it is not the wise of this world by whom he speaks, but those who are anointed with the holy unction. The Divine power c 18 THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. [1751. was over the spirits of many of the people, which confirnied me in the belief, that the Lord will send his servants, to invite those that are as in the high- ways and hedges to tlie supper of the Lamb. At the last meeting we attended in this journey, we were made partakers of the healing, sweetening vir- tue of Truth ; and we were mercifully sustained throughout, by the invisible omnipotent Arm, that never fails those who trust in it. Samuel Neale to a Friend. Dated near Widelow, 13th Third Month, 1752. My dear Friend, — Though I am at times borne up by the rencwings of Divine assistance, yet am I at seasons as empty and as mere a nothing, as though I never knew any good ; and it is rare that I meet such refreshing showers of celestial sweets, as I did when in thy company with those favourites of heaven ; which makes me ready to conclude it was only an earnest for me to enter into service, and that I must now work for my bread. Well, I verily believe, but for a little faith that I find as a stay to my mind in these moments, I should almost faint ; and then the words of tlie prophet sometimes animate me when in this situation, which arc, " Though the youth may faint, and the young men utterly fall, but they tliat wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength." These words are often repeated in our solemn assemblies, but how little is the sense of them understood by many of our professors ; the god of this world doth blind their eyes, and delusion chains them with many infatuations. Well, I have to say, let us wait for Divine refreshment, as humbly craving at the footstool of our God ; let others do what they 1751.] THE LIFE OP SAMUEL NEALE. 19 will, we will by Divine aid serve our God ; who is strength in weakness, and a present help in every needful time, — binding up the broken-hearted, and procuring liberty to the captives. I have to magnify His holy name, and with adoration acknowledge His manifold mercies to my soul, who by such an unde- served condescension plucked me as a brand out of the fire : O ! how wortliy is He to be waited upon ! 1 know not, my dear friend, how it is with thee ; but I would have thee to be resigned, and be patient in tribulation, having hope as an anchor to the soul ; and when thou art as the desert, springs will be opened, the blossoms shall appear in bloom, and sadness will be removed. But, indeed, we cannot expect to be free from suffering here, for it is by suffering we are to reign with Christ, who was made perfect through sufferings. Therefore I commend to thee what I do to my own soul, which is patience in tribulation ; that when we glory let it be only in the cross of Christ. Thy, real friend in the ever blessed Truth, Samuel Neale. Returning to Dublin, we attended the National Meeting in the Fifth jMonth : after which, having obtained the concuiTcnce of my fi'iends, we em- barked for England ; arrived at Liverpool on the 10th, and on the 1.5th of the month we reached London. ^ We had several precious opportunities during our stay there, though my spirit was deeply baptized, under a sense of my own unworthiness ; also on account of the liberties taken by many, who make a high and holy profession. In this Yearly Meeting my spirit was much humbled within me — the heart- c 2 20 THE LIFE OP SAMUEL NEALE. Q1751. tendering power and virtue of Truth broke in upon me ; and I thought if I spent such a season every year of my life it would be truly profitable. The meetings for discipline, as well as those for worship, were very consolatory : my spirit was much broken and contrited before the Most High, and I walked in great fear, [In a letter to his friend, Richard Shackleton, dated about this time from London, he writes Q As for my part, my di-ar friend, I find nothing else is like to do for me, but the most solemn attention, and the deepest looking after that I am capable of, to know how to act for my own peace of mind and the honour of Ilim, who has called mc out of darkness into a measure of his marvellous liglit ; to give me a sense and relish of the cnjojnuents of supreme love, and His gracious condescension in A-isiting my soul when I was captivated with the delusions which would inevitably have terminated in eternal misery. May a sense of this matchless mercy and loving- kindness rivet my affections, and fix my desires after the continuation of this love ; which, indeed, has warmed my heart with strong desires for Jerusalem's cause, and shewed me the beauty that there is in a life given up to the service of our CJod ; Avho has done more for me than I am ca))able, by the tliou- sandth part to give the least idea of. Well, what can I do ? nothing I am sure that is good, or in any ways*contributive to the good cause, only as I am actuated by the emotions of the Spirit of Truth j which, when enabled, I have to beg it may be my greatest care and diligent concern to adhere to ; lest I be deceived by the insinuations of my unwearied adversar>", or an inherent disposition in the nature of poor fallen man, to be in action for the applause of 1751.] THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. 21 his fellow-crcaturcs. For I honestly confess, for niy part, that except I am in the most attentive manner watching over the rovings of my mind, I find I am surrounded with dangers, which, when in Truth's arising, I ohviously see to be destructive to my own good or happiness ; and this danger that so besets me is, a desire of being what my good IMaster does not think ]iroper to have me to be, whicli is, in being ambitious to be great in the cause I am engaged in, which I see has its rise in self, a monster that is an enemy to many souls, and a destructive one too. Oh ! when we come to experience a will entirely resigned to be what our God would have us to be, it is then we are made vessels, or instniments of honour, fitted to act as He, the Lord of the Harvest may see meet to employ us, whether it be to reap, to sow, to thresh, or oversee that the work is going on to His glory. Many worthies there are here from all quarters : the meeting of ministers was an instructive season to all present, especially to the little ones. In the Meetings of Discipline, in my apprehension, there does not seem that unanimity and concord as might be wished for in such a solemn assembly ; there being men of great capacity, who, instead of waiting for the forming power to give ability, speak with precipitancy, as if jealous lest some other should take up the time. However, the Master and God of order has many that are watchful on Zion's walls, lest the adversary should make an inroad, who, like the good prophet of old, will sit on their tower, and be instant in season to speak against any invasions the enemy would be making, to disturb or render fruitless the labour that is bestowed. ^He proceeds to give an account of his journey, in 22 THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. [[1751. company with William Bro\\Ti, through some parts of England, Holland and Germany, from whicli the following extracts are taken.] On the 29th of Fifth ^lonth, we got well to dear John Griffith's, at Chelmsford, and next day heing First day, we were at two favoured meetings there. On the 31st, we reached -John Kendall's, at Col- chester, and stayed their Yearly Meeting, where the presence of the good Shepherd was witnessed ; the meeting lasted three days, and ended with heavenly sweetness. On the 6th of Sixth Month, we set out for the Yearly ^Meeting at Woodbridge, and during the time thereof, we were frequently overshadowed by the goodness and glory of our God, and the testimony of Truth went forth in good authority and power. On the 3rd of Seventh Month, we went on board a sloop at Yamioutli, and through the goodness of a gracious God, landed on the 5th at Rotterdam. — On the 8th, we got to Amsterdam : were at meeting there ; and blessed be the name of the Lord our God, we were owned by His living presence. In this city we stayed for some time, visiting the families of Friends ; exhorting them, as Truth opened our way, and gave us tongue and utterance. I was very thankful in feeling what I did amongst them : my spirit was much imitcd to some states there, and though I could not converse with them, yet there was an union and fellowship in spirit, that had a language unknown to mere world)}- minded men. From hence we proceeded to Osnaburgh, &c., and on the 23rd of Eighth Month, we went on board the packet-boat at Helvoetsluys, and through the crmtinued conde- scension of the invisible Arm of power, arrived safe at Harwich on the 24th. 1751.] THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. 23 QFrom Amsterdam he wrote to his friend Richard Shackleton, under date of 17tli of Seventh Month, from which the following is extracted ■ Tlic hand and judgments of the Lord are to be laid upon every of his vessels and instruments in his house, for their being fitted and formed according to the will and wisdom of Him, who must have polished stones in his building, shaped by judgment to bring forth righteousness, and to live a righteous life. It is my sense, that the more crooked grained and stub- born by nature we are, and exalted by our own pride of heart, the more chipping and planeing we want, and the harder are we to be brought to that nothingness which initiates us into the body, and makes us mem- bers of Christ. He, whose eye is over the work- manshi]) of His hands, and who knows the secrets of the hearts, the most hidden thoughts being manifest unto Him, views and sees what will humble, and fit us best for His use. And I believe this was the cause of His hiding fi-om me His presence so much in that great city, (London) and left me so insensible of good ; in order that I might see how little man's knowledge or wisdom are, when there is a veil drawn between him and true wisdom : — This was then my error, dear friend— the natural man arose, — self grew great and was exalted, being clothed with a disguise that indeed deluded, by exciting suggestions injurious to peace, and far from true humility ; it set itself up, and gloried as it were in its own shame, by whisper- ing with a mixture of serpentine venom, how I had been plucked out of the mire and dirt, and set among the foremost in the household of faith ; and if all this was done in so short time, how much more would I experience. And here cursed self would exalt itself above the pure seed, that was then 24 THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. [1751. oppressed with this strong man armed, and strength- ened by the wliispcrs of tlie infernal leader of his host, Avho is always engaged to lead the mind ca])tive. But as the all-merciful Judge sees meet to forgive and blot out our iniquities, when we turn to Him with unfeigned rejientancc, so I have witnessed ; glory for ever be attributed to Ilim. If we watch with a single eye, there is a shining of that light within, which discovers every speck and s})ot of uncleanness, and judges and mortifies it : — and thus looking to Ilim, who was the Guide of his people of old by a cloud and pillar of fire, which is figurative of our spiritual travels in this our day, they were to move as the cloud moved, and stand as it rested on the tabernacle ; here was the eye to be fixed on the sure Guide. It is jiist so with us in the spiritual travel ; as the eye is fixed on the gift within, and waits for instruction, it is to be found ; but while we are unsteady and impatient, the enemy works and draws tlie mind aside. Thus does the mystery of iniquity work, till it is made to flee with the brightness and coming of Him who slays with the Sjjirit of His mouth. After I left London, I felt the re-animating love of my God re-kindle in my bosom, which, witli tlie company of many worthy Friends, was more than I was deserving of. I looked on myself with shame, for having been so long a neglecter of the nu^rcies offered to me, and a tramplcr on that precious blood spilt for niy redemjition. When my companion had a view of this country, I had some small hopes tiiat I might return home, and was in a strait for some time, not knowing what I should have to do or could do in a country where they s])oke by an int<'rj)reter ; and besides, there was a young man that was under 1751.3 THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. 25 a concern to go, which when I mentioned to my com- panion seemed to aftect him more than I could think. I continued waiting to know my duty, till I found every arising scruple give way. Accordingly I set off from Norwich, in company with about thii-ty valuable religious Friends, who came about twenty- two miles to Yarmouth ; where wc had a heavenly meeting, as a confimiation of the notice and regard of that Power, who is superior to every power, in whom is fulness and glory for ever. We took shipping and arrived at Rotterdam, the 5th instant, came to this city the 8th, and here have continued, have had several meetings and visited all the families. There is not that conformity of dress in the professors here, which is peculiar to the simplicity of the gospel ; I hope the labour of love bestowed upon them, as it comes from the fountain of all good, will operate with the gift in them, as to bring them to a sense of their error. They say it is a stiftness amongst them, that is peculiar to the Dutch : but Truth is the same here as in England, has the same efficacy and force to break every hard heart, and bring in subjection every thing that would resist against its motions ; and it is my companion's and my belief, if they do not in this confonti. Truth will not flourish here ; for disobedience thereto fits them for the con- versation and love of the world, which is at enmity with God, hinders them from bearing the cross, and becoming truly circumcised. But all we can do is, to discharge ourselves, and leave the efiects. We intend by Divine assistance to go to Osnaburgh next week, about four days' journey from hence, near which city there has lately appeared a convincement of our principles ; and from thence to go to North Holland, which when accomplished, we hope to be 26 THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. [1752. free of tliis country, and return to England. Hoping these lines may be taken as a token of my friendship and uuforgctfulncss of you, being written in the aboundings of that love which fills a heart that wishes you prosperity in every sense. I am, tliy very affectionate friend, Samuel Neale. To Richard SnAcicLEXoN. London, llth Ninth 3lont/i, 1752. Dear Friend, — Thy very acceptable letter of the 5th inst. I duly received, and I can truly say it was satisfactory as well as consolatory to me, being in a low dejected moment of my pilgrimage. But the goodness of that merciful Lord, who in his wisdoni sees meet to leave us at times m a stri])ped state, to shew us our weakness, poverty and infirmities, — will not tarry longer than He gives faith and patience to bear us up, from sinking below the proper depth, in the sands of uncertainty and unbelief. I know my spirit in a particular manner has to magnify his everlasting loving-kindness ; and to say, good is the Lord, in manifesting his mercy to the most rebellious : indeed, He is long-suffering, great in mercy, and wonderful in power. Oh ! may His glittering sword be unsheathed, and seen by those that are in the unrepcnting patlis of idolatry and iniquity ; that by its brightness and the just and awful threats thereof when in the hand of judgment, they may flee to mercy, and be pnmed from all their branches of error and folly. Indeed, dear friend, I sometimes think, when I cast an eye on the iniquity that seems spreading its power and dominion in the most obvious manner, on these nations professing Christianity, that 1752.3 THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. 27 our great and merciful God will send some of his righteous judgments, as in days of old, when rebellion reigned in the camp of Israel, to destroy those tram- piers on the precious blood, spilt for tlie redemption of the children of men. A certain truth it is, — He will not always strive with men ; for if the judgment of the Most High was poured on the unrepentiiig and iniquitous, in a time that only pointed out tlie gospel dispensation, how much more guilty are those who with the tongue confess and profess to believe the sacred truths, left on record of the sufferings of our holy Pattern and High Priest ; and act in direct opposition and contradiction thereto, and indeed, bear in reality the very same hearts and dispositions of those who judged Him to the cruel death of the cross : what but love alone would strive with them ! there- fore when I reflect on the unrighteousness of priests and people, and tlie growth thereof, I am ready to con- clude, some trying calamity will be the consequence of their rebellion and infidelity, and to believe the man and child is born that will see it. My spirit in fervency craves that our Society may be aroused from their beds of ease, and remember the church of old that was neither cold nor hot, and had a name of being rich and full, and knew not that she was naked, and poor, and wretched, and miserable, &c. The Lord our God, I am sure, is not wanting on his part ; but is putting his word in the heart and in the mouth, of his poor vessels, causing them to give it forth in fear and trembling ; so that our Society is without excuse. But to return to that part wherein I mentioned my lowncss : — this great city and the state of its inhabitants, cause me pain and anxiety of mind; and an ardent desire in the right time to be relieved 28 THE LIFE OF SAMUEL XEALE. [^1752. from such exercising seasons, is my portion, both now, and when here at the Yearly fleeting; and now both body and mind are affected. My com- panion often blames me, with many others, and even Samuel Fothergill cautioned me against appearing low and dejected : I cannot come to tliat strength or experience, when oppression reigns, to have a clieerful coiintenance, and a veiled heart, when clothed with sorrow. My dear friend, this letter, tliough not worth perusing, is the best I could send ; my heart indited it indeed, and not my head ; and believe me, that I truly love thee and thine, and many others in my own land. The Lord's will be done ; he can help his little Davids and animate them in the field of battle, to go even against the whole Philistine host. Be faithful, my dear friend, and watch for his com- mands. When I can, I pray for thee, and all my young brethren and sisters : may the spirit of prayer and supplication cover us as an helmet, and shield us as armour. Samuel Neale. After returning from Holland, we proceeded on our jouniey through the southern and western coun- ties of England. On the 9th of Eleventh ^lonth, we came to Samuel Bownas's at Bridport ; where my heart was made sensible of the necessity we have, while day and capacity are afforded, to work in the vineyard into which we are called, by seeing this labourer in a decaying, drooping way, by a failure of those faculties that were once so bright, fertile and fruitful. But still he maintains that innocency and sweetness which Truth gives, and leaves the savour of, to all who are faithful to its manifestations : 1752.] THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. 29 which remark may my soul treasure up ; tliat so I may make right use of my day and time, and ardently pursue the one thing needful, tliat leads to an eternal repose ; wlicre the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest. To A Friend. Devonshire, \Qth Eleventh Month, 1752. My Dear Friend, . 1 have of late received counsel instrumentally, so applicable and befitting my state and condition, as binds my soul more and more to the testimony, and has begotten cries at the very bottom of my soul, that the thread of my life may be cut, ere I make the professors of the ever blessed Truth, either to be ashamed or to mourn for my behaviour ; and have been reanimated to covenant afresh, in remembrance of the horrible pit I have been plucked out of, and to say — Lord I am thine, and all I have is thine ; lead me and guide me, and give me wisdom if it be thy holy will, to conduct my- self so as to be no reproach to thy blessed Truth, or the true members of it ; may I and all I have be con- secrated, so as to ' act only in thy requirings, and for thy cause.' And methinks, I hear in the secret closet of my heart, a whisper, — if thou wilt be faithful, I will never leave thee nor forsake thee. May thy prayers be put for my faithful discharge of duty ; that I may run not as uncertainly, and fight not as one that beateth the air ; but that my body may be brought into subjection, and all the afi'ections of it, to the law of the Spirit of life ; that I may daily die to the natural man, and live to Christ my Saviour, by the revelation of his holy Spirit, to strengtlien and renew that new life I have received from him, by the 30 THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. [1752. enlightening Learns of his eternal love, which is unliniiteil, universal, and brings redemption and salvation to its faitliful votaries. Thy letter to me, comes witli so much brotherly kindness, that if it were filled with the most pene- trating fruitful admonitiim, it could not be more welcome : it truly manifests thy generous lieart's regard, and I believe it was from the emotions of that righteous princi])Ie sown there, that dictated it : and I am sure thou desirest my growth in the best things, and sometimes art afraid of my erring ; all which I take from the pure love which thou hast to our Sion, and that the inhabitants thereof may be as stakes immoveable. And now let me tell thee, I am at seasons afraid myself tliat I shall never be able to holdout ; and many arc my supplications that I may be preserved alive, from the corruptions of tlie world, or joining in the least with the enemies of Truth, either in company or sentiment ; but that I may be taken away wliilst alive in religion, and not cut off as a fruitless branch. ' Beloved friend, it makes my lieart aclie when I consider the degeneracy from that true begotten zeal, which was about fifty years ago, when the ancients lived that endured the Iicat of the day : it is not now as in the days of Israel of old in one sense, though too much in anotlier, — while the ancients lived they served the Lord ; — in this sense it may be observed with us now. But blessed for ever be the Son of righteousness, he has ascended up on high, and given us a law that is of eternal duration, writ- ton in the heart, not on stones, but on flcwlily tables ; ho tasted death for every man, has given them a manifestation of his Spirit, which, if truly hearkened unto, would lead us out of all error into all truth, 1752.] THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. 31 and give us the same noble virtuous princiiilc of our forefathers, to keep to the law and the testimony : — neitlicr riclies nor honour would brihe them to come into slavish mean compliances, nor the fears of what man could do by his empty power, when only in the flesh, or aided by fleshly powers, carnal weapons, human reasoning, &c. But now how is the defence or wall of our profession broken down, I mean the discipline of the church, — what a mixture is there in the seat of judgment, speaking in their own time, wit, and wisdom, oft'ering false fire as some did of old, for which judgment was immediately executed : for as the law was then given outwardly, so was the punishment outward : but now there is a day coming in which the world is to be judged in righteousness, by that man ordained before the foundation of the world ; when reward is to be given as the works merit or deserve, ^lay thy soul be fervent, with all those unto whom Truth is precious, that the work for which each is preparing, may be faithfully done ; and let me say with one of old. May the God of Israel grant thee thy petition, and as thou also asks in faith it will be so ; for, beloved, it is the wrestling seed which is to have the blessing, and to them it will not be said, seek ye my face in vain.. Let us keep to the feeling, let us travail with tlie seed, tliat we may know its arising in dominion ; and then let us do what is shcwTi us, not according to the present manifestation either in meetings of discipline or wor- ship. Gideon was but the least in his father's house, David was the least in his, but as they had faith, how did the Lord work in these instruments : and though the manifestation be but small, let us be honest ; we know not the eff"ect it may have. My dear friend, let us be resigned and will-less, to 32 THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. ^1752. be anything or nothing ; for my part I am at many meetings and have nothing to say, and yet I am resigned, knowing of myself I can do nothing. And lot me tell thee more of myself, the poorest of instru- ments, I tliink I have not so much to say as when in Ireland often, so that I grow but slowly, if at all, excejjt it be in the lesson of contentment ; which I find will be learnt if I seek not my will or honour, but the will of Him who sent me ; for as I am His, " do with me, O Lord, (I often say) as thou pleascst." Samuel Neale. On the 22 nd of Twelfth Month, we came to Oakhampton, and having a day to spare, myself and companion visited three young women, sisters, who had been members of our Society, but were unliappily led away by the Ranters ; whose self-righteousness and delusions cause much uneasiness to the truly concerned, avowing how dangerous that spirit is, when given way to. Satan, the accuser of the bre- thren, tries all ways to disunite from the body and cause a separation, — rents and divisions being the strenofth of his kingdom : and as his insinuations are adapted to all people in their different states, finding out tlie weak side, there he plants his l)atterv, trying one temptation after anotlicr ; sometimes as an angel of light, and sometimes (as he really is) an angel of darkness. But let a faithful examination be entered into, and a query raised, — Am I influenced by tiiat Spirit which governs by love in tlie believers ? Is there no root of self-love or self-sufficienL-y ? Is tliere no zeal kindled by the accuser of the l)rethren, that would introduce contention and discord, pride and high- 1753.] THE LIFE OP SAMUEL NEALE. 33 raindedncss ? This cannot be [^from] that Spirit that baptizes into the one body and makes U3 one in Christ ; — no, there would be bearing and forbearing, a forgetting and forgiving, a persuading and travail- ing in soul to be of one heart, to love as brethren. Tliis will manifest whose disciples we are, and who is our Master. We visited these young women in love, and they took it well, my companion shewed them what true discipline was, and their errors, when they acted contrary thereto. On the whole it was a satis- factory conference, and if they are dealt with in love, I believe they will again join with Friends. The 4th of First Month, 1753, my companion resting a few days, I was at Spiceland, in Devon- shire ; where were Mercy Bell and her companion Phebe Cartwright : here I was made acquainted with these Friends' concern, to go to tlie market-place and street adjacent in Exeter, which bowed my spirit: I was baptized with them, and encouraged them to faithfulness. We spent the evening in a solid frame of mind, under the consideration of this weiglity exer- cise : it appeared to me in sucli a manner, as made me apprehend that it was my duty to accompany them, and my companion assenting thereto, I freely gave up, not without first weighing it w*ell, fearing by being too forward, I might rather hinder the ser- vice : and knowing that the Almighty was as suffi- cient to work by one (if it were his will to work instrumentally) as by a thousand. Thus, secretly desiring to be directed aright, a feeling sense opened to go, which I believe was strengthening to them. On tlie 5th of First Month, in the morning, accom- panied by William and Thomas Byrd, we set out, and got to the throng of the market between twelve and one o'clock; after a time of silence, Mercy Bell was D 34 THE LIFE OF 6AMCEL NEALE. [1753. concerned in fervent supplication for aid and strength to fulfil what she thought to be her duty. We then •walked up to the market-place, where she delivered what was on lier mind : her companion was likewise concerned to warn the people to repent, for tlie day of the Lord came as a thief in tlie night. They proceeded through tlie street and often stopped ; the people flocked about us in great numbers, and many were reached ; and although there were divers hardened and stiff-necked, yet, in general, they listened with attention and soberness. Thus these Friends con- tinued about three hours, regardless of the contempt and mocking of tlie profane, seeking nothing but peace of mind, which was administered. The word being in my heart, was put into my mouth, and I exhorted them to turn to the Lord, and he would have mercy ; but if they forsook Him and lived a life of unrighteousness, they would, with the nations of all those that forget God, be turned into misery : and, for thus bearing my testimony for the truth of my God, I had the reward of sweet peace. We appointed a meeting for the inhabitants to begin at five o'clock, which was very large ; and, as ability was given, we declared the Trutii. Mercy Bell had a very open time amongst them, to the satis- faction of most if not all present ; and the meeting concluded with sujjplication and praise to Him, who fits and qualifies for every work and service. In this city, there are some professing the blessed Truth, who are like the rulers of old, who believed, but did not confess, because they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. Next morning I joined my former dear companion, and on the 23rd of First ]\Ionth, 1753, we came to Bristol, where his indisposition rendered it necessary 1753.3 TUE LIFE OP SAMUEL NEALE. 35 for him to rest again ; and I finding my way open liomewards, acquainted him therewith. It was no small exercise to me to leave him, who was made as a father to me in counsel and advice : may it incite to a faitliful perseverance, and cause my soul to be active in every point of duty ; as I believe his was. I stayed in Bristol until the 1st of the Second Month, was at several meetings, and can say, the Lord was pleased to be with me and to strengthen me : for ever magnified be His eternal name, for all his mercies to my soul. On taking leave of my dear companion, we had a religious sitting, wherein we were mutually comforted; and had to believe, that as the Lord our God joined us together, so in His wisdom He separated us, and in His love we parted. I proceeded to Gloucester and "Worcester ; at the latter place I met my endeared friend and sister Catherine Paj-ton. I stayed both meetings on First day, which were remarkably satisfactory to me : the pure life succoured, and I was helped to discharge myself bej'ond my expectation. In the evening, we had the company of several Friends in a religious sitting, which was very refreshing and comforting ; and though the apprehension of being singly at that meeting had been trjnng, and fearfulness had covered my mind ; yet my good Master made it easy and joj'ful to me, additionally so, by casting his ser- vant's lot there at the same time, who had been so great an instrument in His gracious hand towards my convincement and conversion : for which con- tinual mercies may I be favoured to hear with humility and attention, the words that He conde- scends to speak to my soul ; that so I may obey, and witness true peace to flow in my bosom : for, at D 2 36 THE LIFE OP SAMUEL NEALE. Q1753. this time I can say, all that I crave is ability to worship tlie infinite All-wise Being aright in spirit and in truth. I arrived in Dublin the 21st of Second Month, 1753, and attended the meetings as they fell in course, imtil after our National IMeeting ; when, with the concurrence of my Friends, I set out for the Yearly Meeting in London ; where were many friends of great weight. Here I was renewedly con- vinced of the excellency of our principles, and of the blessed union of the faithful, and that no weapon formed against them should prosper; but that the Lord of all power would be a sun and a shield to those who put their trust in Him. This was a memorable meeting ; many living testimonies were borne to the pure Truth, and our covering was a crown of glory and a diadem of beauty. In this Yearly Meeting a proposition came from the women's meeting, for the establishment of a Yearly Meeting upon the same foundation as the men's, to send representatives from the Quarterly Meetings annually to attend it. It was brought in by six women, viz. Susannah JMorris, Sophia Hume, I\rary Wcsten, Jlary Peisley, Catharine Payton, and another : I well remember the salutation of S. Morris, when they entered the Meeting House ; and she concluded with a short pathetic and living testimony, which liad a great reach over the meeting. The propo- sition, I had no doubt, was from the motion of Truth : after a considerable debate it was deferred, and a recommendation sent down to the different Montlily Meetings, to establish women's meetings where there were none ; and thus the matter closed this year. 1755.] THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. 37 CHAPTER III. RETURNS TO DUBLIN RESIDENCE NEAR RATHANGAN MEETING ATTENDS LONDON YEARLY MEETING, 1756 THENCE TRAVELS INTO SCOTLAND RETURNS HOME. Soon after my return to Dublin, I took a place in the country, intending to reside there : it was an agreeable solitude, free from noise and hurry, and relieving to me in a season of baptism and refinement. This place was within the compass of Edenderry Monthly fleeting, and of Rathangan particular meet- ing ; which, about this time, had a fresh visitation extended from the !Most High. We often sat under the descendings of Divine Love, in which we felt much tenderness and brokenness of spirit, and therein grew in virtue and greenness, tending to make fruitful in every good word and work ; and there was an increase in spiritual riches. After I was settled in my new habitation, I was very careful to attend Quarterly, Province and National ]\Ieetings, as they fell in course, with other religious services. To A Friend. Clonivoe, 1th of Second Month, 1755. Dear Friend, — I cannot help admiring the good- ness, mercy, and continued long-suffering of a gracious God, who is indeed abundant in goodness and in eternal truth ; who has pruned, dug, and cultivated on his part, his heritage, family, and people ; and 38 THE LIFE OF SAMUEL NEALE. Q1755. behold he looks for fruits. "What then are ready to be produced ? Wliy, I fear by some, pride and haughtiness, arrogancy and stubbornness, conccitcd- ness, and self-sufficiency ; and very deplorable are these productions; how nigh are these unto the territories of death, and under the power of judgment, whom darkness and pain will unavoidably surround, if these vices are not fled from. Ah ! how nigh are these poor souls unto the state of that fig-tree on which our Lord and Saviour went to seek fruit, and behold there was none : and the sentence was passed, — "let no fruit grow on thee henceforth for ever;" and immediately it withered away. What can, be done, that has not been done for this people : what can be said, that has not been said, to bring them home to their forsaken Father's house. While I write my spirit intercedes thus, — Ah ! adorable, for- giving Goodness, let them stand yet a little longer ; bear with them a little longer ; and arm thy servants with fresh supplies of ability and wisdom, to woo them to love, duty, and obedience ; and raise up others, who may be more j)revailing, more powerful, and more successful. This, dear friend, is the language of my spirit at this time ; and do thou stand ready for His message ; stand open to His counsel, and be willing to bear the ark, though thou stands in Jordan. I am persuaded my God has designs for thee to bring glory to His name, though thou mayst think He deals hardly with thee at times, and mayst reason thus, — 'are there any so poor, so weak and feeble as I am ? — perplexed, buffettod and set at nought, tiie Initt of the elder rank to shoot at, if I am c()ncerneid. — Being a week-day meeting, attended, and felt therein a measure of supporting help ; which after constant wading, arose to a strong supplication to our Great Master for the continuance of holy protection and preservation and the enlargement of wisdom in the souls of mankind, those of superior ranks as well as inferior, kings, princes, and judges, — that ambition's crest might he bowed dowTi, — that a stop might be put to the shedding of blood, — hostile in- vasions checked, and the spreading of the gospel influence witnessed ; that those places that now appear as a wilderness, through the rage and ambi- tion of princes, may become as a fruitful field and as the garden of the Lord ; — that righteousness and peace may kiss each other, and mercy and truth flourish in the land ! 1758, Second Month 2^th. — Left my own home to accompany John Alderson (from England) and several other Friends to the Quarterly Meeting in Ulster, and was at Coothill meeting, which being in a very low way respecting tlie discipline, we imparted to them what occurred to us for their help and consi- deration. From thence we went towards the Quar- terly Meeting, which proved satisfactory, and we became refreshed in our spirit, one in another. After which Abraham Shackleton and I accompanied J. A. towards Londonderry, visiting both the families and meetings which constitute that Quarterly Meet- ing, and I returned home in peace, where I found my family well and my affairs in good order, — thanks be ascribed to the great Watchman and Shep- herd of Israel who sleeps not by day nor slumbers by night. 88 THE LIFE OF SAMDEL NEALE. Q1758. Qrd. — Went to our province meeting and re- turned home the 6tli, humbled in spirit, with my eye to my great Master ; whom I think I am willing to follow in weakness as well as in strength. ' nth. — 3Icasurably enjoying a serene quiet, and engaged in looking into the state of the mind. Having had a prospect for some time past, of paying a religious visit to Wales, and some parts of England, and the time now drawing near, quickens a diligence to leave my concerns in such a state of regularity as may be easy to my mind ; but my prin- cipal object is the discharge of my duty, that I may do the day's work in the day time, manifesting, that I prefer the cause of Jerusalem before my ehicfcstjoy. Was at our week-day meeting, where I parted with my friends in a sense of the flowing of the strengthening stream of life's nourishment ; and in the uniting efficacy of its virtue, had to praise the Lord God of Sabbaoth in the demonstration of His opening power. Left home in order to pay a religious visit to some part of England and Wales, in obedience to what I believed to be my duty ; and staying a few days at Dublin to t