c> * -^ %■ <$> w* - V 5 ** <$>.<$' A. ,p ~ % ,0o. o~ * ^ * OO 1 •A- -tu. V*' ^ ^ X ■V s J ■.V> ^ . ,^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ V %<£' ; "-V - *>* -■ \ • s -, '• ' ^ * J* > .' '/- y x o vc- *V' 3b&'*»*£. -=;>r^. of affection which, I apprehend, more and more pervades my feelings. How were they engaged to advise and counsel the pledges of their love, and to desire that a blessing might rest on them. How solemn and pa- thetic was the language of the excellent King David to his favorite son : " And thou, Solomon, my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart, and with a willing mind : for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts : if thou seek him he will be found of thee ; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off forever. Take heed now, for the Lord hath chosen thee to build a house for the sanc- tuary ; be strong and do it." Such solemn and af- fectionate benedictions appear to have made lasting impressions on wise sons, some of whom became pol- ished shafts in their day and generation. A person who has long been engaged to live a re- ligious life, and is beginning to go down the hill of time, is inclined often to look over the past leaves of life ; he will be likely to recollect many weaknesses and foibles ; strong and unsubjected propensities have many times brought distress and confusion ; he will also remember with self-abasement that as there has been a willingness to bear the indignation of the Lord, when there has been a sinning against him, he has been brought out of the horrible pit, the mire and clay, and had his feet again placed on the rock, and a new song put into his mouth, even praise to his God, for his long forbearance and tender mercy. Thus the rod and the staff have alternately promo- MEMOIKS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 147 ted his refinement, until he arrives at the margin of that state recommended by the apostle : " Rejoice evermore, and in all things give thanks." He experiences the anticipated gloom of old age to disappear ; his mind is cheered with interesting and consoling meditations ; and as it is one of the ex- cellencies of religion to induce its possessors to de- sire all to come into the same happy state, his mind will often overflow with sympathy and good wishes for his fellow-creatures, especially such as are in the younger stages of life, through which he has passed, and in which he has experienced numerous interest- ing and perilous scenes, in some of which he has barely escaped eternal ruin. Thy father knows some- thing of these things, and he often experiences his soul poured forth as water on behalf of his first-born, that he may be the saved of the Lord. Every rational soul has a day of visitation, a sea- son of tender awakening considerations. Has not the Lord been good to thee ? has not his secret hand underneath preserved thee through conflicts and dan- gers not a few. Many have fallen, and thou art still spared in the land of the living ; is it not that thou may be brought to taste of the joys of God's salva- tion ? Yes, I believe it is. It seems to me that his mercy flows to thee, and that he stands waiting to heal all thy backslidings, to love thee freely, and to pour out his blessings even until there is not room to hold them. My feelings have of late been peculiarly drawn forth toward thee, so that I am almost persuaded that it is a very important season with thee. Great is his 148 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. condescension and gentleness toward the workman- ship of his hands. "When he was a great way off his Father met him." Oh, unspeakable compassion ! when the humbled mind feels the emptiness of sub- lunary enjoyments, and desires to attain something that will satisfy and console the immortal spirit, and resolves to make the attempt to obtain it, then, sooner than they could have conceived, they receive the embraces of his love, to strengthen their good resolutions. But how weak and irresolute is poor man ! how apt to confer with flesh and blood ! Not many wise, not many learned, are chosen ; because they are so accustomed to reason on every subject that they do not obey the still small voice of God in the soul. The sensations and intimations of right and wrong in the mind must be implicitly obeyed. The infant in nature cannot reason ; no more can the infant in grace. This is the rock on which thou- sands split ; let others take warning. God is wiser than the children of men ; he knows how to lead them. "A good man's steps are ordered of the Lord ;" he does not propose to go the whole journey at one step ; he points out one little step first ; this is usually so small as to humble the proud heart, and this humility is the very temper that prepares for progress. But if it be declined, the effect will be likely to be similar to the scholar who should de- cline to learn one letter at a time, and insist on comprehending the whole circle of sciences at one view. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 149 Having extended my remarks beyond what I had a prospect of, I bid thee affectionately farewell. Joseph Tallcot. From Joseph Tallcot to Abraham and Rebecca Underhill. Scipio, 12th Mo. 29, 1818. Dear Abraham anq Bebecca : I duly received your communication some time ago, containing some remarks on our publications, which were very accept- able ; and, agreeably to request, I have forwarded the next number of the " Friendly Visitant," together with six dozen of the " Child's Companion," 'No. 2. As you were silent with respect to this little work, I suppose you considered it an ordinary toy book. I now wish to solicit your careful examination of it. You will perceive that it is a periodical, and may be informed that, by means of agents, they are forwarded quarterly, with the " Visitant," to nearly all or quite every family of Friends and friendly people from De- Kuyter to Chatauque. Parents are kindly requested to encourage and assist their children in turning to the passages that will enable them, with such aid, in forming answers to the Bible questions contained therein. In turning to the passages, you will per- ceive them to be interesting and instructive parts of the Scriptures ; such as will be likely to induce the young reader to peruse the sacred volume with pleas- ure. Considerable attention appears to be given to the subject in many places. "When I call at Friends' houses, I generally find the children ready for exam- 150 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. ination. We not long since made a good visit at the house of J. T. In the evening three little girls placed themselves in a row, and wished me to hear them ; they answered all the questions, and then repeated the poetry. I was pleased, as well as they. I have often lacked a topic of conversation when I have been with children ; this plan gives religious persons an opportunity of forming an acquaintance and friend- ship with the children, and this I think may be ren- dered a considerable means of improvement to the rising generation. Three months ago my wife and self were on a visit to our scattered Friends at the west, and during the journey we called at a large number of schools, and presented the teachers with our tracts, and it was more than I expected to find them so cordially disposed to cooperate with our views. We also handed our books to good looking children we met on the road, or at taverns, or other places we fell in with them ; and for similar distribu- tion we furnished Friends who were going journeys, or representatives to the Quarterly and Yearly Meetings. The peculiar satisfaction this employment has af- forded me, leads me to desire that Friends who love children may get in the way of expending a dollar or two per year for suitable publications, and present them affectionately to that interesting part of society, who are indeed the " beauty of the present, and the hope of succeeding generations." I am a good deal inclined to think that much more useful labor may be bestowed on children, when young and innocent, than we have realized. It may be observed that MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 151 many, if not most, of those who join our society by request, have had an early acquaintance with Friends. The price of the " Companion " is four shillings per dozen. Can you not induce some of your benevolent Friends to purchase half a dozen each, to give away ? "What money is procured in this way is laid out in books to give children. Ton will probably think me rather enthusiastic re- specting the book concern. I cannot deny that it af- fords me a good deal of satisfaction to see a system commencing which I have anticipated more than twelve years. I want your Edward B. to write me a line, saying how far he is master of the contents of the " Child's Companion," No. 1. We made an interesting visit to the westward, and were absent about one month. Four years before we performed nearly the same journey. At that time the Monthly Meeting of Eden consisted of three small meetings ; it now has seven, a considerable number of members having been added, both by em- igration and convincement. An unusual number of the latter class attended our last Quarterly Meeting, and my feelings were peculiarly interested on their account, as well as for society at large, in this remote corner of the vineyard. A Quarterly Meeting was granted us when we were few in number and weak ; but there is no doubt that the privilege has been a blessing to us. That such a large number of good- ly Friends as now reside hereaway, possessing talents in embryo, should never enjoy the valuable privilege of attending Yearly Meetings, has a good deal affected 152 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. my mind, and I have believed it right for me to com- municate my feelings and sentiments to several of our good Friends in the southern parts of our Yearly Meeting. I am aware that my sentiments are un- popular, and I had no idea that they would at pres- ent concur in opinion, but my motives, I trust, were such that I have seldom witnessed more composure of mind for complying with apprehended duty, and I hope I shall be enabled to bear the consequences. I can recollect when the Yearly Meeting of New York consisted of only two Quarters ; perhaps fifty years ago the state of society was not much if any superior to ours at present ; and we are far more nu- merous and remote. I have no doubt the time will come when it will be as useful for us to enjoy the privilege of a Yearly Meeting in this country, as it was for them. I however feel quite in the patience about it. I learn that the Monthly Meetings of De- Kuyter, Bridgewater, and Butternuts have appointed committees to confer together about requesting for a new Quarterly Meeting. I should have mentioned that Friends of Eden be- gin to talk about the division of that meeting, and it is probable a new Monthly Meeting „will be opened before long between Genesee Falls and Niagara, on the Ridge Road, there being four meetings in those parts which belong to Farmington Monthly Meeting. Our dear Phebe Field, in company with Martha Tupper and two men Friends, took a trip to the east- ward, about a month ago, as far as Onondaga, and had a large meeting with the natives. They also had large meetings in the court houses at Onondaga and MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 153 Auburn, and in several other places, all to good sat- isfaction. She has also had meetings nearer home, and as far as we are capable of judging, appears to be well employed in the exercise of her precious tal- ents, where the laborers are few, and the field exten- sive. Jesse appears to enjoy his new home, and they seem to be comfortably situated ; but to mind's pre- pared for superior enjoyments, the good things of this life lose their charms. If Phebe was more at liberty to travel abroad in the exercise of her minis- terial gift, it would be grateful to her friends ; but it may probably be said of her, she has done what she could. I often think about dear Stephen Grellet ; canst thou give me any recent information about his move- ments, or of our friend Hannah Field ? Any occur- rences connected with the welfare of our beloved so- ciety, or with the good cause at large, will be wel- come to us ; and remember, that what may be old to you may be new to us. "We have sympathized with you on account of the troublesome concern with the 0., but we are assured that all things work together for good to those who love the Lord. Happy will it be for those who keep their minds stayed upon him, having the cares and sorrows of the world in subjection. My wife and daughters unite with me in the ex- pression of love to you, not forgetting little Edward. Joseph Tallcot. P. S. I recently called at a house in the neigh- borhood of a tavern where some Friends had lodged, and I was told that a female of the company gave a 1 54 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. little girl a small book for children, with which she and the family were much pleased, and were in hopes the Friends would call on their return. If one thou- sand Friends in our Yearly Meeting should become interested in cultivating a friendship in this way with the children, would it not be next to preaching the gospel? J. T. From Joseph Tallcot to Abraham and Rebecca Underhill. Scipio, 2d Mo. 14, 1819. Dear Abraham and Rebecca : We had an inter- esting visit from George and Esther, and he being now about to leave us, I am writing a line or two to manifest my affectionate remembrance of you and your lovely Edward. 4 Our Quarterly Meeting has a standing committee for the promotion of the guarded education of our youth, and they are now engaged in different compa- nies in visiting all the schools where our members send their children for education. For the week past, in company with other Friends, I have been em- ployed in the service, mostly in the distant parts of our Monthly Meeting. We have visited sixteen schools, consisting of eleven hundred scholars, amongst whom were a small proportion of Friends' children. About twelve more schools of the same description, in our Monthly Meeting, remain to be visited. Owing to our poverty and scattered situation, we have not been very successful in our exertions for starting schools on the plan of the Yearly Meeting. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 155 The committee have, in the course of their visit, man- ifested the pleasure they received on observing the schools to be generally under good regulations, and fur- nished mostly with competent literary teachers. But the principal service has been to call the attention of the scholars, teachers, parents, and trustees to the im- portance of the moral and religious part of education, and the necessity of making the youth early and prop- erly acquainted with the Scriptures of truth, and »f the probability that many children will grow up in ignorance of the sacred volume unless they learn it at school. The importance of filling up leisure time usefully, particularly the first day of the week, has been held up to view. These visits have been in the manner of a confer- ence, and when Friends had closed their remarks, others have been invited to communicate their views. The committee have generally been well satisfied with their labors, and the visited have appeared We find that some parents are scrupulous about sending their children to district schools, and choose rather to keep them at home ; others prefer sending their children to them, and then turning their atten- tion to improving the school as much as they can. I was yesterday in one of this description, where one or more of the trustees are Friends ; these, by their punctuality, gain influence, and have almost the whole control of the school. Sometimes an evening is set apart for the purpose of exercising the children in spelling, and in answering the Bible questions out of the Child's Companion. In this way the children 156 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. of Friends may be likely to be in a good degree pre- served ; and the influence of Friends may be useful to the whole neighborhood. If the attention of Friends generally should be turned to the improvement of the schools in their sev- eral neighborhoods, and to the necessity of guarding the minds of their own precious children from the in- fluence of bad examples, by giving them frequent, seasonable, and suitable counsel and admonition, I am inclined to think that more good would grow out of it than we have anticipated. Tell my dear nephew that at one school a consid- erable class of boys and girls stood up and answered all the Bible questions, and repeated all the poetry in the two numbers of the Child's Companion. This was beautiful. These dear children had learned these good things at leisure hours, when many other chil- dren in the world were wasting their leisure time in play, or in learning hateful things. I have sent A. a number of the Child's Compan- ion, and having forgot whether I sent the No. 7 Vis- itant, shall therefore enclose it. In haste, my dear S. joins me in love to all. Joseph Tallcot. From Joseph Tallcot to De Witt Clinton, Governor of New York. Scipio, 2d Mo. 18, 1819. Respected Friend : Being apprehensive that our youth are in danger of suffering a loss in their moral and religious character for want of a more general MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TAELCOT. 157 knowledge of the Holy Scriptures, I have, in the course of the past year, called at a considerable num- ber of schools in various places, in order to ascer- tain how far the sacred volume is in use as a school book. I have been gratified in finding our school-houses filled, with interesting youth, and generally appear to be supplied with competent literary instructors ; and occasionally found the New Testament and extracts from the Bible in use, and, in a very few, the teach- ers were in the habit of reading in school, daily, a se- lected portion of Scripture. A fear -that this is too far a specimen of the situation of our schools gener- ally, together with a variety of objections which have been started, have led me to reflect on the subject in a serious point of view. I consider the Bible, partic- ularly the ISTew Testament, eminently adapted to im- press the youthful mind with moral and religious sen- timents. Impressions made in childhood are apt to be lasting and influential ; and. as many children will be likely to grow up very much in ignorance of the Holy Scriptures, unless they learn them at school, I have become interested in favor of some attempt to awaken the attention of parents and the directors of schools to the importance of the subject. The influ- ence of our Superintendent of Schools might be ex- tensively useful, especially if his fostering hand should be strengthened and. sustained. Perhaps an appropriate address or recommendation from the American Bible Society, embracing such sentiments and reasonings as would be likely to correct the pub- lic mind and harmonize the various views of parents, 158 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. teachers, and Christians, might be useful, and essen- tially promote, on a large scale, the cause of moral- ity and religion. But I am not quite certain whether it would be considered as comporting with the great objects of that institution, for it to recommend the reading of its own publications. Thy superior talents, benevolence, and public spirit, together with the part thou hast taken in promoting a variety of objects connected with the welfare of the community, incline me to address thee, with a hope that thou wilt be instrumental in devising the best means of awakening the public attention to a subject which is, I conceive, intimately connected with the moral, religious, and political prosperity of our beloved country. "With due respect, thy friend, Joseph Tallcot. From the Presbyterian Synod to Joseph Tallcot. Geneva, FeVy 19tk, 1819. Dear Friend and Brother : We have received your kind letter, and are pleased to find that you are still engaged in the great work of doing good ; and particularly by endeavoring to extend the knowledge of the Holy Scriptures amongst the young. This is sweetening the fountains of society, and we trust the streams which flow therefrom will gladden and fer- tilize the land. We are most firmly persuaded that this is the most effectual method to promote your laudable endeavors to suppress vice. We must per- suade men to love righteousness and hate iniquity, MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 159 and we nowhere find arguments which will effect this but in the Bible. "We therefore most heartily bid you God speed in your work of faith and love, and are happy to consider ourselves as cooperating with the wise and good of every denomination in promo- ting schemes of benevolence. We are unanimously and decidedly of opinion that the Bible ought to be read in schools. Tou are aware, probably, that our order have always en- couraged the use of that book, and so far as our in- fluence extends, we intend still to encourage it. But as our common schools are under legislative regula- tion and patronage, we are of opinion that the most sure and effectual means to establish its authority in schools would be to obtain the interference of our state government. Could that body be persuaded to stamp the Bible with this token of their high regard, so as to make it the duty of all authorized teachers, under some penalty, to cause it to be read in their schools, we think the object might be secured. In the mean time, we would inform you, that in every part of our country our denomination are as- siduous in promoting the study of the Scriptures by our children and youth, in what are styled Sabbath Schools. In almost every congregation more or less of these little institutions are established, and in many of them great things have been already done toward promoting the study and knowledge of the holy volume. Considering, therefore, that we are thus engaged, as we think, in the most effectual manner in promo- ting the great and glorious object you have in view, 160 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. we rather deem it inexpedient to take any further measures at present. Your friends, in the bands of the gospel, The Synod of Geneva. Signed on their behalf and by their order. Dirck C. Lansing, Ifoderator. FlKST-MONTH 21, 1819. Fully can I unite my feeble efforts to promote the circula- tion of thy little works amongst Friends, for igno- rance and want of mental cultivation lamentably pre- vail, owing in part to the scattered situation of many, and as much to the destructive cause of worldly-minded- ness, which chokes the tender plants of virtue most sor- rowfully amongst us. Deadly indeed are its effects. Many of our members seem to look down with con- tempt on other professors, because they admit a hire- ling ministry. But I often fear that for want of faith- fulness we shall be cut off, and they engrafted into the good olive tree ; for it is not the bare profession, however correct, which gives acceptance ; there must be a practical performance, in order to mani- fest a right faith. Some amongst us consider the various public char- ities, now so conspicuously carried into operation, as the great struggle of priestcraft to sustain itself ; but let their notions be what they may, thousands, I be- lieve, are acceptable agents in the work, and will have their reward ; and the pious, of every denomi- nation, who are training up their offspring religiously, MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 161 according to their prepossessions, doubtless will be hereafter among that number "which no man can number," giving praise before the throne. And the rising generation thus educated will, in my belief, if faithful to that which has been imparted, have the shackles of education broken, and be enabled to see beyond their parents, and at the same time blessing the paternal care which turned them, though imper- fectly, to the ways of piety. I do at times ardently desire that we, as a society, may arise and shake off the dust of the earth, and not let the gold become dim, and the fine gold changed, and for this there are none I more desire it for than myself. My heart has been affected within a few days in reading a little memoir of Caroline E. Smelt, of Au- gusta, in Georgia ; it exemplifies my belief. Oh, the sweet motherly care there recorded, and the precious effect ! I should be glad if thou could procure it, that the youth around thee may read it, and be led to glorify the author of all good, that his kingdom is spreading in the hearts of the youth of other denomi- nations, and serve to rouse them to increasing dedi- cation. Thou art not alone, I find, in thy views with re- gard to the erection of a new Yearly Meeting at the west. Perhaps all that can be done to advance it at present, is for such Friends as see it clearly, to men- tion it at suitable times, and so prepare the minds of others by degrees to unite in the proposition ; and if thou canst be the instrument to do away prejudice, others will be found to assist in carrying it on. 162 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. If nothing prevents, I will inclose a piece or two for the " Child's Companion," if approved. Perhaps thou can abridge C. E. Smelt's memoirs, so as to form a suitable item for the " Friendly Visitant," should it impress thy feelings as it has mine. I have no doubt it will prosper in the thing whereunto it is sent, even to be a loud call to the youth and to mothers. In love to thyself and family, in the best of bands, I conclude. From James Mott to Joseph Tallcot. New Yoke, U Mo. 20, 1819. Esteemed Friend : Thine of 1st Mo. 1st was re- ceived yesterday, with the books sent by Israel Cook. I very much approve thy method adopted in pub- lishing and distributing books and tracts, and partic- ularly those intended for children, as described in thy letter. The youth and rising generation are objects which claim our peculiar attention ; and while unshackeled with incorrect ideas or prejudices, is the seasonable time to imprint correct views and just conceptions. Is it not to be feared that too many are taught, at least by the example of their parents, that to accumu- late wealth was the chief good and main object of pursuit % And are there not many other ways by which the children receive very injurious impres- sions, for lack of pious care in the parents ? I am sometimes ready to fear that some children amongst us are not so prepared to receive religious instruc- MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 163 tion as the children of those that we call the world's people. Well, go on to improve and enlighten the minds of both. I think yon have engaged in a good work, which I trust will prove a blessing to some, and I hope not a few. May yon not forget, in your distri- butions, the remote and poor classes of people, some of whom have not the means to procure many books. I think the " Child's Companion " is well calcu- lated to be useful among small children, and the Friendly Yisitant to those of riper years. Thou dost not tell me the price of either, nor how often you print them. I am willing to take some of the Child's Companion ; as to the other, we are printing tracts of somewhat similar nature. Our Tract association have endeavored to print about three thousand monthly. I purpose sending thee some of our last two numbers, one on war, the other on the use of ardent spirits. I am very desi- rous the work on war might have a free circulation. It has tended to convince abundance of people of the vast disagreement between the spirit of war and that of Christianity. To convince mankind of this, is certainly a very important work, and ought to be so considered by us, as a society, and indeed by all who have been favored to see the unchristian nature of war ; and I do fear that we are short of our duty in spreading tracts, and otherwise disseminating the peaceable principles of the gospel. It is an eventful time ; many people begin to see things in a different point of view from what they have done. The inconsistency of war was seen by 164: MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. very few besides our society a few years ago ; and now what numbers, both here and in England, bear a decided public testimony against it. And slavery, how much more detestable it appears in the eyes of people now, than in years past. We are informed by two Friends, who were lately at "Washington, that they found divers members of congress who, though large slave-holders, yet acknowledge its iniquity, and deplored their own, as well as the situation of their slaves ; and some of them employed teachers to in- struct their slaves, in order to prepare them for free- dom when way opened for it. The sympathy that has been lately manifested for the poor, neglected In- dians, is consoling. For in addition to memorials from the Meetings for Sufferings of New England, ISTew York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Ohio, one has issued from a large meeting composed of the dif- ferent religious denominations in this city, and an- other from the Baptist society in Kentucky. Whether in consequence of these or some other cause, congress have passed two laws ; one to regu- late trade amongst this people, and the other empow- ering the president to take such steps for their pro- tection and improvement as he shall deem necessary, for which purpose they have voted the sum of thirty thousand dollars. The Friends who presented our memorial to the president, had several conferences with him, and he appeared much interested in the concern for better- ing their condition, by instructing them in the arts of husbandry and civilized life. If the Indian busi- ness should take a favorable turn in the legislature, MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 165 and steps be taken to relieve them from the injurious consequences of the whites settling amongst them, and more efficient measures adopted to prevent their procuring ardent spirits, I hope our committee on this concern will feel encouraged, and use greater exertions in carrying out the views of society. A copy of a letter from the president of the United States to the Indians on the Allegany reservation, was sent to a Friend in this city. The president en- courages them to industry and agricultural pursuits, promising them protection and assistance ; and pro- poses to them a division of their lands into farms, to be held in fee simple, from under the control of their chiefs. He advises them to follow the counsel of their good friends, the Quakers, in this and other matters. I believe your relations and friends generally here- away are well. Thy assured friend, James Mott. From Samuel Parsons to Joseph Tallcot. New York, 3d Mo. 10, 1S19. - Dear, Friend : I am really ashamed that so much time has elapsed since the receipt of thy acceptable letter of Ninth-month last, without its receiving the attention which it so well merited. I find, since my residence in the country, that out- door employments indispose me for writing, and thus foster a habit of procrastination in this respect, which I often regret. 166 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. The tracts and books which accompanied thy let- ter were new to me, and I feel much obliged to thee for them ; they appear to me to be well adapted to promote the end designed, and I should be glad to receive the Friendly Yisitant from the beginning. Perhaps it would be a good plan to extend their use- fulness, by sending a number of them to Samuel Wood & Sons, for sale, which would make them generally known in the lower parts of the Yearly Meeting. The details which thou hast given of the increase of Friends and their meetings within your Quarterly Meeting, were very interesting to me. It appears as though there would be a numerous body of Friends in the western part of the state, and I feel disposed to encourage, much more extensively than has yet been done, the dissemination of the principles of the society, by spreading tracts explanatory thereof ; and I do not think the sum which thou proposed would be too much to appropriate annually to that object. But it depends upon the committee of the Yearly Meeting to examine the treasurer's accounts to de- cide, and the views of all are not equally liberal on this subject. One objection which I have heard urged is, that so much activity is displayed by those of other socie- ties in the distribution of religious tracts, that Friends ought to be quiet ; that is, because others are zeal- ous, therefore we must be lukewarm and uncon- cerned ! There is a very favorable disposition in the Meet- ing for Suiferings toward this concern. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 167 The edition of H. Tuke's principles of religion is now printing, but there seems to be a want of dispo- sition on the part of Friends to obtain it, although recommended as it was in the minute of the Meeting for Sufferings. But very few have been ordered by the Quarterly Meetings. I hope, as thy opportuni- ties are greater than some others, that thou will con- tinue to impress the subject upon the minds of Friends ; for I agree with thee in sentiment, that the diffusion of such publications is a very powerful means of doing good, and a concern in which the members of our society are very deficient in perform- ing their duty as they should, in the exercise for the promotion of the cause of truth, in spreading right knowledge among the children of men. I should be glad to be affectionately remembered to thy Sarah, and remain thy friend, with esteem and regard. Samuel Parsons. From George Dilwyn to Joseph Tallcot. Burlington, Zd Mb. 17, 1819. Esteemed Friend, Joseph Tallcot : I received thy communication of the 2d of last month on the 9th of this with eight tracts, for which I am obliged to thee. I like the design, and should willingly promote it by handing thee anything in my possession that might be suitable to be inserted ; but the task of selecting parts is now too great for me. My " Occasional Re- flections " were intended to assist in compilations for the use of schools, and if you should extend your views to that object, may be of some service. There 168 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. is another work which you may think of, that is, a concise exhibition of the fundamentals of religion, independent of the constructions which have divided the Christian world (as it is called) into so many con- tradictory parties. Tracts of that kind, not meddling with the supposed errors, or defense of either party, would be acceptable to all and offend none. With respect to the Scriptures as a proper book for teaching children to read, I remember once submit- ting my opinion to the committee of Westown school for consideration, that a better way would be to have the children of each department collected at stated times, and portions of Scripture read to them by the best readers, making a decent pause before and af- terward, and to leave Bibles about in their rooms to be read at their own discretion. This might keep up a proper respect for the book without lessening it, as, I have no doubt, formerly was the case, by the unpleasant snubs which learners often incur, especially from cross teachers. It might also be a means, not only of maintaining a just idea of the book, but of guarding against running into the error, now so common, of trying to make it what rea- son shows it is not. Here I will note a phrase of thine in one of the tracts (I forget which) of this ten- dency, I mean " inspired writings," which classes it with " The Word," " Bread of Life," " Source of Com- fort," &c, met with in the recommendatory publica- tions of the Bible societies. I am aware the apostle countenances the impropriety somewhere by terming the Scriptures " Holy," but he must have alluded to those of the Old Testament only, (no other being then MEMOIRS OF. JOSEPH TALLCOT. 169 extant,) which were written under the typical dispen- sation, wherein the temple, priests, garments, altar, oil, and other things dedicated to religious purposes, were so termed ; for as to holiness itself, it is a vital principle, whereby nothing incarnate is suceptible. I think I have read that part of the indictment against one of the martyrs was, that he had said, — " The word might not be touched with men's hands." A concern for the promotion of well ordered schools is what I believe, had my allotment of service been more stationary, I should in earlier life have cordially united with. For I have long considered it as taking moral improvement in the community up at the right end, and hardly anything, within the sphere of rational exertion, to be more important. I can now only offer my best wishes for those so employed, that a sense of divine favor may be their strength and encouragement. Before I close, I would express a hope that in the spread of your books and tracts, you may have an eye to scattered families, and - the frontier settlements ; and, as many of the people are poor readers, that the several pieces may not be unnecessarily prolix, but clear, full, and short ; what is otherwise, I need not say they, (but we all,) are apt to pass over slightly. When a convenient opportunity presents, please send Samuel Emlen one hundred of thy tracts, as- sorted, and one or two of those you publish in future, separated for me. Let us know the price, and to whom S. Emlen's part of the money, with the ten dol- lars contributed from me, may be paid. 170 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. If the Caleb McCumber in the list of names is our late visitant, do give my love him. Affectionately thy friend, Geoege Dilwyn. From John Murray, Jim., to Joseph Tallcot. New Tore, Uh Mo. 3, 1819. Kespected Fkiend: Thy letter of 3d Mo. 3d is before me. Although our Tract Association thought proper to appoint thee one of its agents, yet as thou was an active member of a similar institution among you, we could not reasonably expect thy attention would be much diverted from yours to ours, at the same time we calculated on thy disposition to pro- mote both. "When we engaged in that work, our ideas were so far raised, and our zeal, at least with some, so great as to encourage a hope that we should have progressed faster than we have at this time. But thou knowest large bodies move slow ; too many fears and doubts prevail ; and when that is the case, more or less discouragement and procrastination is apt to follow. "We have, however, got as far as 3STo. 9, and have in train another number. The communication alluded to by thee from the correspondent members, was laid before the Meeting for Sufferings, and obtained its consideration. ]STo clear views of the subject opened so as to justify an application to the government. A committee was appointed to go to Albany on another occasion, but they were charged, if I remember right, that in case the Militia bill should be revived, and an opportu- MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 171 nity presented, that some intimations might be given touching the operation of the present system as it is administered in some places. We ought to feel for our brethren when suffering either in body or prop- erty ; and it is unquestionably the proper business of the Meeting for Sufferings, not only to take cog- nizance of representations regarding our peaceable- testimony, and the sufferings which may occur, but also to consider whether any means are requisite in order to obtain redress. Should our legislature adopt the proposition for re- vising the constitution, it is probable Friends will avail themselves of that opportunity of urging our claim to a total exemption from military requisitions of any description. The Meeting for Sufferings feel very cautious in their movements in approaching le- gislative bodies, especially when soliciting relief for our own society, and yet it may be sometimes proper and right to do it. As the clerk of our meeting has written fully to the corresponding members of your Quarterly Meeting on the subject of their communi- cation, I need not enlarge thereon. And now, to advert to another part of thy letter, regarding an epistolary correspondence which has subsisted between us for about twenty years, during which time we have, I believe, felt the force of the friendship which is pure and disinterested, but we have received many tokens of it through the medium of the pen ; and if I have not written to thee so fre- quently of latter time as formerly, I would not have thee attribute it to any abatement of my regard, or of the interest I take in thy welfare. I can assure 172 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. thee thy letters are very acceptable, not only because they tend to keep bright the chain of friendship, but because they are generally replete with useful infor- mation and instructive remarks. It is, my friend, a great attainment, that of being kept out of all extremes and dwelling in the quiet hab- itation. To you, whose residence is in the sequestered shade, retired from the tumults and bustle of a large commercial city, surrounded by the beauties of nature, and regaled by the songsters of the woods, it would seem easier to obtain access to the enjoyment of that quiet alluded to by the prophet, when he thus expressed himself: " Look upon Zion, the city of the saints' solemnities, and behold Jerusalem a quiet habitation." I have no doubt, my dear friend, thou art laboring in order to experience an advancement in the pure life of religion. Thou art, I believe, pressing forward toward the mark ; and while we are clothed upon with mortality, we must expect the present scene will continue to be a state of probation, a warfare, connected with many infirmities, and liable to many temptations and sins. Hence, I conclude very few Christians can say more than the Apostle Paul said. ki I do not speak," said that eminent servant of Christ, " as though I had already attained, or were already perfect;" but he was pressing on. And when I am sensible that I have any right to enlist myself amongst those of that description, I have cause to rejoice, and, without looking for extraordinary illuminations, to make the best of that portion of light I have, and im- MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 1 73 prove those gifts which are bestowed on me for my own and the good of others. I have long had a predilection in favor of a coun- try life, and had I followed the bent of my inclina- tions, abstracted from other considerations, I should probably, many years ago, been engaged in the pur- suit of agriculture and rural economy ; but it seems to have been otherwise allotted, and I have been en- deavoring to bring my mind to the circumstances of my life as they have occurred. I know it is no mat- ter of consequence where we are, provided we are in the right place. "We have had a trying winter, in consequence of the indisposition of our daughter, M. Perkins. She- was first afflicted with a cough ; the rheumatism then set in, and has confined her to the house nearly the whole of fourteen weeks, suffering a great deal of pain. Her cough is much better, and the rheuma- tism has very much yielded to the means which have been used, so that I am in hopes she may be consid- ered convalescent. My wife has been almost worn down with anxiety and fatigue. As to myself, until within a few weeks I have passed the winter pretty comfortably ; am now very much of a cripple, and suffer considerable pain. I hope thyself and family are well, to whom we are united in the expression of love. I do not forget the agreeable seasons I have passed under thy roof, and it would be pleasing to see you under ours. With these feelings I now subscribe myself thy affectionate friend, John Mukeay, Jun. 174 memoirs of Joseph tallcot. From Samuel Emlen. Burlington, oth Mo. 24, 1819. Respected Friend, Joseph Tallcot : Thy letter of the 9th ult, with the pamphlets, came safely to my hands, and soon after the receipt of them I for- warded to George Underhill, of New York, the sum of fifteen dollars, ten of which were from George Dil- wyn, and the remaining five are intended as payment for the tracts thou sent me. I well remember to have heard, a few years ago, something relative to the case of the child thou in- quirest about, but from what I have learned since the receipt of thy letter, I am inclined to believe that the story has received quite as much coloring as it will bear, and that it would be a difficult matter to give it the stamp of authenticity, which everything publisned to aid the cause of religious truth ought to bear ; and, therefore, it would be unsafe for you to publish it, in which opinion I am joined by George Dilwyn. I hope it will not be considered as an evidence of a disposition to interfere improperly with the prose- cution of the benevolent views of thyself and col- leagues, if, whilst writing on this subject, I observe that the report of Sir William Jones having died on his knees in the act of prayer, as mentioned in No. 4 of the "Friendly Yisitant," is noticed and contra- dicted by his biographer, Sir John Shore, now Lord Teignmouth, and president of the British and For- eign Bible Society, who says, that although such a close would have been in entire conformity with the MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 175 general tenor of his life, yet the report was not true. If, therefore, another impression of this number should be called for, it would be best to omit that paragraph. I am not at present in possession of anything which I feel very confident would be acceptable for your publication. I can, therefore, only offer thee my wishes for your success, and assurances of my best regard. Thy friend, Samuel Emlen. From Governor Clinton. Albany, June 22d, 1819, Dear Sir : I have received an interesting letter from you, and being fully impressed with the impor- tance of furnishing the common schools with the Holy Bible,- 1 shall bear the subject in my mind, and will endeavor to promote the object by all the means in my power. I am yours, sincerely. To Joseph Tallcot. DeWitt Clinton. The following are extracts from a letter supposed to be from a Presbyterian minister to Joseph Tallcot: Groton, Deo. 23d, 1819. Dear Sir : Permit me, though a stranger, to ad- dress you on a subject which highly interests my feelings, and respecting which I am inclined to be- lieve you are far from being indifferent. 176 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. The president's message to congress of late has cre- ated a fear that our country might again be involved in a bloody war with one or more of the nations of Europe. Cannot something be done to bring the members of our national legislature to consider the subject as men and Christians ? The sufferings, losses, demoralization, and numer- ous other miseries attendant on war, will not be de- nied by any. As Christians, we are bound to ob- serve and obey the commands of its author: "Ee- sist not evil ; love your enemies ; recompense no man evil for evil ; do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and perse- cute you." These are plain and imperative com- mands, and are obligatory on all Christians. I have thought the present crisis loudly called upon the friends of peace and humanity to do something to avert the threatening storm. The most promising expedient that presents to my mind is, to supply all the members of our general government with copies of the " Friend of Peace," and such other publica- tions on that subject as may be deemed best. The reading of these might tend to enlighten the minds of legislators, lead them to further reflection and in- vestigation, and be productive of more peaceable measures. These powerful and convincing writings diffused generally through the states of this Union, cannot fail, under kind Providence, of carrying light to many minds, and result in laying the foundation for a lasting peace. I am of the opinion that if this work could be ac- complished by some other means than by peace soci- MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 177 eties, it would be less liable to suspicion of interested or political motives. And such is tbe quiet and un- assuming character of the society of Friends, that a present of these publications from them, would be viewed as clear from all improper motives, and enti- tled to respectful consideration. Could you, dear sir, be instrumental in bringing about so desirable an end ? It would be a source of peculiar gratification to multitudes who already ac- knowledge themselves your debtors. From the impression I received respecting you at the time of your appearing before our synod, a few years since, which was the only time I ever saw you, my mind has been directed to you as the most suita- ble person to carry this benevolent project into opera- tion ; and should you conclude to make the attempt, from what I know of the benevolent and patriotic spirit of your brethren, and the disposition of others to unite with them, I have no hesitation but that you will easily succeed in obtaining the means necessary to effect the object. With sentiments of esteem, I am yours, &c, Joshua Dean. From Ezra Sampson to Joseph Tallcot. Hudson, March 17th, 1820. Eespected Friend : It was but yesterday that I received your kind and obliging letter of January 29th, and I hasten to answer it. Your labors as a member of a Tract Association, I think very useful and laudable, and I sincerely hope 178 HEHOERS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. you may thereby be the happy instrument of sowing the seeds of morality and piety far and wide among the children of our country ; so that very many may hereafter " rise up and call you blessed." The small tract you sent me is a valuable one and well adapted to its purpose. I have presented one, as from you, to a sensible and lovely little girl, who will carry it to the school which she is attending. It is of great importance to disseminate scriptural knowledge in our schools, and the neglect thereof, which you complain of, is a sad and pitiful one. Some think the whole Bible should be read in schools continually, or according to the order in which the books stand ; others are in favor of reading only the ISTew Testament ; and others, again, think that a ju- dicious selection from the whole would answer the important purpose best. The last of these opinions I had espoused, for reasons that seem to me obvious and weighty ; and accordingly, about twenty years ago, I compiled the " Beauties of the Bible," consist- ing of a selection from both the sacred testaments, and of such parts of each as children could easily un- derstand and apply. It has all along been a reading book in many of the schools in New England, but has not spread much in this state till lately. I am glad you have a favorable opinion of it ; and so far from taking offense at your suggestions for improv- ing it by certain alterations and additions, I sincerely thank you for your friendly freedom. But I have now no control over that book, the proprietor being a bookseller in this place, without whose consent no alterations can be made. Besides, as his impressions MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 179 are of the stereotype kind, all alterations are now im- practicable. The place I left, when I came to Hudson, twenty- three years ago, is Plimpton, near Old Plymouth, in Massachusetts. If you visit Hudson I should take it very kind if you would call upon me. "With respect, and hearty good wishes for your welfare, and the success of your efforts to benefit the rising generation, I am your friend. Ezra Sampson. From James Mott. New York, 3d Mo. 27, 1820. I duly received the letter of my valued friend Jo- seph Tallcot, of the 3d instant, with the pamphlets ac- companying it. I have not had an opportunity to offer it, except to a very few, and their opinions I have not yet had ; I will let it be seen, both by mem- bers of the Meeting for Sufferings and the Tract As- sociation ; a number of Friends belong to both. I not only wish thee success in visiting schools, but desire to throw in my mite by way of encouragement to persevere in it, believing it may eventually pro- duce great good. It is a new thing, but many new things are taking place in this eventful day, and some of them promise well. The efforts now making to extend the circulation of tracts on the subject of war, have scattered much light and gained many advo- cates for peace. The heinousness of slavery has been exposed so ably as to have produced a great change 180 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. in the public sentiment ; pamphlet after pamphlet are making their appearance in this city, painting out the sin and evils of slavery. The poor, abused Indians, although neglected by the legislature of our state, yet seem to claim the notice at this time of the general government, who are turning their attention toward bettering their situation. Doubtless thou hast heard that Jedediah Morse, author of the Geography, is about setting out on an extensive excursion amongst the western nations of that people, having the aid and approbation of our government; his object is to ascertain their condition, and the best methods of pro- moting their civilization and good habits. Thy engagement in visiting schools is a new thing, as I before observed ; but the idea is not a new one to me, as I recollect years ago of hearing a Friend express a belief of its usefulness, and a willingness, if way opened for it, to visit all the schools in the state. Suitable books and tracts, put in the hands of chil- dren, and observations and advice that may be im- parted while sitting with them, may make lasting im- pressions, and be profitable both to teachers and schol- ars, and lay the foundation for great advancement in morals and religion. "William Foster, from London, is bound to the Uni- ted States, on a religious -embassy, and is expected to attend our Yearly Meeting. Stephen Grellet was in Naples in Eleventh-month, and had an interview with the pope, more satisfactory than he expected, no one being present except a priest. William Allen had gone to Malta. Their visit has been principally to MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 181 two classes — the various description of religious per- sons, and to rulers and those concerned in govern- ment. They found some very religious characters amongst the nobility. I hope their extensive jour- ney and labors of love may be useful in reforming the world. Abundance is doing to educate and qualify preach- ers. I was in hopes that people were becoming gen- erally more enlightened than to resort to logic and rhetoric to propagate Christianity. Much money has been expended in sending missionaries far and wide. I wish them success ; but I fear some of them are not sufficiently imbued with the spirit of the apostles to enable them to make many real converts. My precious Anne has been confined to her house much of the winter, in consequence of a heavy cold, but has so far recovered as to attend meetings ; she says, give my love to Joseph Tallcot, and tell him to take courage and pursue prospects of duty. My love to thy wife and children. Thy friend, affectionately, James Mott. From, Lindley Murray, of England. HoLDGATE, NEAR YORK, 4:tk Mo. 10, 1820. Esteemed Friend, Joseph Tallcot : I duly received thy kind and acceptable letter, with the tracts which it enclosed. Thy letter contains an interesting account of the settlements of men, and the progress of education, in a part of the country where, a few years ago, the 182 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. land presented an uncultivated scene, a vast, dreary wilderness. To the pious and enlightened mind, it must be a grateful contemplation to survey the ad- vancement of science, of virtue, and religion, where darkness and superstition so lately reigned. Perhaps the poor, adjacent Indians, who have retired from their former possessions, or their descendants, may reap some benefit from these settlements of light and knowledge. Perhaps the present inhabitants, or some of them, may feel that extension of care and in- struction is due to these untutored children of the Universal Parent. I have for many years been in a feeble state of health, almost entirely confined to my lodging and sitting rooms, and often much affected with illness. Of consequence, I have but little intercourse with others, and do not read and examine many books. There are, however, such numbers published, for the benefit of children and young persons, both in En- gland and America, that I think they form an abun- dant source for useful selections, to form the juvenile mind to knowledge and virtue. But I believe there are also a great number of publications, designed for young people, that are unsound in principle, and tend to corrupt and deform the heart and judgment. It will, therefore, be of great importance to those who are desirous of promoting a guarded education, to select, with the most scrupulous and vigilant at- tention, such books and passages as are perfectly sound and correct. . And perhaps it is advisable, where the books are good, to avoid making any al- terations in the sentiment or language, when they MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 183 are republished, or when extracts are taken from them. I wish thee to accept from me the little volume which I now send, namely, a copy of the new and improved edition of the " Power of Religion on the Mind in Retirement, Affliction, and at the approach of Death." I also send for thy acceptance three pam- phlets, which I hope will prove useful. They may be occasionally lent out at thy discretion. It would be agreeable to me to know that this parcel get& safe to thy hands. "With desires that the work of education — pure, temperate, and guarded education — may prosper among you, and promote both the spiritual and tem- poral welfare of the people, I am thy sincere friend, LlNDLEY MuEEAY. From Isaac Parry to Joseph Tallcot. Hoesham, Uh Mo. 27, 1820. Deae Fbiend : I received thy acceptable letter of the 12th ult., which I delayed answering until there was an opportunity of meeting the managers of the Tract Society, which I accomplished last week at our Yearly Meeting, and though there did not ap- pear to be any tracts of the kind wanted by thee, yet they agreed to forward two hundred others under the care of Isaac Colvin. I was pleased to meet there our beloved friend, Caleb McCumber, in attendance of our Yearly Meeting. I was glad to hear of your journey to Deerfield and 184: memoirs of Joseph tallcot. parts adjacent, believing there is a field of labor open there. We felt much for the few Friends there who are endeavoring to raise an altar in the wilderness. Oh, may they be preserved from that spirit which gendereth strife. Our Yearly Meeting was large. "We had the com- pany of our dear friends, William Rickman, of En- gland, Richard Mott and Caleb McCumber, from your Yearly Meeting, Evan Thomas and Gerard T. Hopkins, from Baltimore, and Charles Osborn and Mildred EadclifF, from Ohio. The business of the meeting was transacted in a considerable degree of harmony. I have thought, since traveling through your coun- try, that new settlers were more open to the preach- ing of the gosj)el, than in older places, where the dif- ferent religious denominations are established. We found numbers who appeared to rejoice in the oppor- tunity of hearing the gospel preached by those under our name, and I am sometimes encouraged to hope, that the partition walls raised by carnal men, in the darkness of the night of apostacy, are crumbling ; and if those among us who are commissioned to preach the gospel to all nations, keep close to their guide, " to their plain way of preaching, and plain way of living," they will be made instrumental in spreading the light of the gospel, and thereby bring down the walls of opposition, that the principle of light and life may rise triumphant over all, through all, and in all. A concern was felt with much weight in our Yearly Meeting, respecting the moneyed difficulties MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 185 many of our members are suffering under, from hav- ing entered too deeply into speculation, by which some are brought to the brink of ruin, unable to pay their debts. A spirit of Christian sympathy was re- commended toward those in distress, and not to wound or persecute them, but to labor for their re- covery ; and it was strongly recommended to those in affluence to set a good example in economy and mode of living, and thereby be enabled more easily to assist their brethren, and keep down any distinc- tion in rank, which might impair harmony. The meeting was exercised to warn its members against joining the Masonic, or other secret societies, as the baneful consequences lead to intemperance and many other dangerous evils. Perhaps I may tire thy patience by these details, but believing thou art familiar with all questions incident to us as a peo- ple, and feels an interest in all the concerns of our society, I thought it would not be altogether uninter- esting to thee. Please remember me to all my friends in Scipio, toward whom I often feel my mind warmed with gratitude. " I was a stranger and ye took me in ; sick and ye visited me." The kind attention of thy- self and thy dear wife and amiable daughters is pre- cious to my remembrance. Thine affectionately, Isaac Paeet. 186 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. From Joseph Tallcot to a Friend in London, New York, 6th Mo. 1, 1820. The Quarterly Meeting, of which I am a member, extends from east to west about two hundred and sixty miles, and from north to south one hundred and twenty, embracing about thirty meetings, many of them small and remote from each other. This section of country was a few years ago a vast wilderness, but is now becoming populous, consisting of a larger proportion of children and youth, new countries being usually settled mostly with people in younger life. The attention of Friends has in this quarter been peculiarly drawn to the children ; and as religious books are apt to be scarce in such places, an association was formed, about three years since, for the purpose of publishing small, cheap tracts, for distribution. Children of Friends were the first objects of atten- tion. By means of an agent in each Preparative Meeting, every family was to be supplied quarterly with a tract ; and as many as the scanty funds of the society would admit were given to those not of our society. It was found that the present of a good tract was more acceptable than'can readily be con- ceived by those who are living where books are plenty. I waited on three female Friends to our Yearly Meeting, now in session, being a distance of three hundred and thirty miles. We passed many schools, at the doors of which we generally called and pre- sented the teachers with tracts of various kinds, :ME-M0IR3 OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 1ST which were cordially accepted. While our horses were feeding, we often went into schools, and were permitted to read a biographical sketch of some pious child, and make some remarks to encourage the chil- dren to follow their amiable example. Such a scene was new and striking to the children and teachers, and my mind has often been deeply contrited, in observing the susceptibility which has prevailed, and I have been ready to exclaim, " Sure- ly, the £ord is no respecter of persons." As to the effect of these impressions, I shall not attempt to predict. I have observed among the numerous ap- plicants in new countries to be received into mem- bership with us, they mostly were such as in child- hood or youth had some acquaintance with Friends. Being one of the committee for distribution, I have sometimes spent days, in company with a dear friend, in going from school to school, and I think may esteem them some of the happiest days of my life. I believe last year I distributed to about one hun- dred schools. These are organized under the author- ity of the state, and partly supported by the interest of a school fund. They embrace promiscuously the different sects, and amongst the rest, many Friends' children. For although a concern has for many years pre- vailed in our Yearly Meeting, that Friends may set up schools under their care, and considerable pro- gress made, yet owing to the remote and scattered situation of Friends, but a small proportion of their children can have the privilege of attending such 188 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. schools. They generally must be sent to the district schools, or grow up in ignorance. This is a very trying circumstance to pious parents, to send their children where they are in danger of having their morals corrupted; they ought certainly to be very watchful themselves over their children, often to counsel and instruct them in the most affectionate manner, so as to fortify, as much as possible, their susceptible minds against the influence of wrong ex- amples and practices. The sentiments of Friends are various with respect to taking a share with other people in the superin- tendence of these schools. Some believe it their duty to accept of the appointment of inspectors and trus- tees, so that they may have a voice in the choice of teachers, and a share of influence in the order and government of the schools ; and I believe judicious Friends obtain all the influence they can reasonably desire, and, if properly directed, it may be a great means of preserving their own children, and at the same time be useful to others. I have known very comfortable effects from kind and prudent attention of Friends to the children of their neighbors. As to myself, the more I have prac- ticed this, the more my sympathetic sensibilities are expanded, and leap over the narrow limits of sect or nation. Of late, I seldom go abroad without some little tracts in my pocket, to hand out to children I meet with. If dear Friends everywhere, who love children, should adopt a similar practice, I believe they might do much good. I am pleased to hear that our female Friends in MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 189 Philadelphia have formed an association, and are publishing and distributing tracts for children. If their example should be judiciously followed in every part of our society, and, by means of a well qualified agent in each meeting, everywhere rendered gener- ally diffusive, my feelings lead me to conceive that many sons would be brought from afar, and daugh- ters as from the ends of the earth. The sympathetic nature of females render them peculiarly adapted to this service. From Joseph Tallcot to his Wife. New York, 6th Mo., 1820. My Dear Wife : The dear partner of my life has often revived in my remembrance very affectionately of late. The Yearly Meeting closed about an hour ago, and when drawing toward the conclusion, my mind be- ing solemnly impressed, my dear family was brought preciously into view ; my very soul seemed to be melted and poured out secretly, in unison with her 1 most love, in language like this : " Oh Thou who in- clined our hearts unto thee in our youthful days, and hast from time to time united us together in thy su- preme love, be pleased to continue thy mercies, and preserve us therein to the end. Thou hast graciously given us goodly children. Gracious Father, be pleased to bless our first-born and the partner of his bosom. May they love and fear thee ; strengthen their good desires ; strengthen their resolutions to serve thee ; give them wisdom in forming the tender 190 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. infant minds in their keeping ; and clothe those whom we are looking to as the staff of old age with wisdom and fortitude, and keep them in the path of safety. Gracious Being, strengthen the tender mind of our feeble daughter, so that she may dedicate her heart fully to thee, and bear the cross cheerfully, and thus, through obedience, she may inherit the riches of thy love. Preserve, if consistent with thy will, the inno- cency of thy last blessing to us. Amen." We got along very well ; attended the Quarterly Meeting at Coeymans, on our way down ; and I be- lieve I have visited all our near relations in this city, who are in usual health. In much haste, affectionately, adieu. Joseph Tallcot. To Mr Grandchildren : Some of you have been engaged in learning the history of nations, which I consider proper information for children, and for pro- moting this object you are furnished with abridg- ments of histories. I also consider it quite as neces- sary that you should become well acquainted with the history of our own religious society, and with the character of our worthy predecessors, and as I know of no abridgment of our history, I propose to furnish you with some sketches, adapted to your ages and comprehensions, with a hope that you may thereby be encouraged to follow the footsteps of the flock of Christ's companions. You will, I doubt not, take particular notice of the MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 191 dying sayings of those who, above all things, have been engaged to do right in the sight of him that will reward us according to our works. Joseph Tallcot. From the Female Tract Society. Philadelphia, 7th Mo. 26, 1820. Esteemed Fktektd, Joseph Tallcot : Having re- ceived through our corresponding member, Sarah Collins, of New York, thy observations on the sub- ject of distributing tracts, which were read at our last meeting, we acknowledge they were truly anima- ting to our feelings, tending to strengthen our feeble endeavors in the same field of labor. May the hands of thy arms be made strong through Him who dwelt in the bush ; and mayest thou go on to follow Israel's Shepherd in every good word and work. "We feel willing to offer thee a few of the tracts we have now on hand for distribution. Our society be- ing in an infant state, we have not yet been supplied with funds sufficient to meet the demand ; this we mention as an apology for the small number we send. Our first four numbers being distributed, we only send one copy of each work. Signed by direction and on behalf of the Female Tract Association^ Friends of Philadelphia, by Mart Hughes, Clerk. 192 MEMOIES OF JOSEPH TAELCOT. From Anne Mott. New York, 10th Mo. 5, 1820. Eseemed Fkiend, Joseph Tallcot : Thine of Eighth- month reached here during my absence in the coun- try, on account of my health. The plan of a general catechism I cordially unite with, and believe, with thee, if successfully accom- plished and used with honest sincerity, would be pro- ductive of much good. From the time of becoming a mother, my attention has been much turned toward the subject of educa- tion ; and, while endeavoring, amidst a crowd of do- mestic avocations, to instruct my infant charge, I often regretted the want of some manual to assist my feeble efforts. The catechisms of that day did not meet my views. The excellent writers whose works have shed so much light on the present period, were either unknown to me, or not in existence. Had the idea thou suggested been acted upon at that time, I should have rejoiced in the help it would have af- forded in my limited sphere, as well as its general use- fulness. I have perused thy manuscript with much satisfac- tion, and have taken the liberty of a friend in pro- posing some variations. I would also ask whether thou dost not think there would be an advantage in extending the questions relative to moral duties, making them still more minute and circumstantial ? • I am aware of our tenets respecting the immediate operation of the Divine Spirit, and that some amongst us hold in such a way as nearly to exclude the use MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 193 of means. But I am so far a legalist as to believe Divine Goodness has worked by means, and will con- tinue to do so ; and that we shall be as culpable for not rightly using them for our spiritual improvement, as to make no application of the faculties he has en- dowed us with, to provide for our temporal wants, but depend on his feeding us in the present day with manna. I think it will be a work requiring time, patience, and perseverance, to bring such differing sentiments as prevail amongst professors of the same name, into such accordance as to adopt the same work, especial- ly if the name of catechism is attached to it. But if it can be accomplished, the rich harvest of good fruits that will be produced, will abundantly compensate for all-the trouble. Please to accept a couple of books which may aid thee in the work. With much love to thyself, wife, and children, I am thy friend, Anne Mott. From John Ely to Joseph Tallcot. Philadelphia, JVov. 5th, 1821. Dear Sir : Tour letter of the 5 th ult. came duly to hand, enclosing the American Catechism. I should have written you sooner, but was desirous of ascertaining whether or not it would be probable that we might introduce this excellent little work into our public schools. I waited on Roberts Yaux, the president of our 194: MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. Board of Control, having the superintendence of pub- lic schools. He had received a copy of the Cate- chism from some person in New York. They have the subject under consideration of introducing it into these schools. The public free schools, twelve in number, in the City and Liberties, have each their separate Board of Directors, but all are subject to the direction of the Board of Control. I am much pleased with the contents of this little book, and shall do what I can to promote its use and circulation. It is much to be lamented that the reading of the Scriptures of Truth has been so much neglected in schools. In our public schools we have always used the Bible as one of our class books ; but in many pri- vate ones it is not allowed, for fear, as some allege, of making the book too common, and by that means impair the reverence we should have for it. This, I think, is false reasoning; for the more we contem- plate on it and its Divine Author, the more we shall be likely to reverence him, and highly esteem the book which teaches our duties toward him. Permit me to thank you for the favor of your let- ter and the book enclosed ; and also to express the satisfaction I feel in holding intercourse with those who have the real good of the rising generation at heart, and more especially are engaged in inculcating moral and religious instruction. Most respectfully, your friend, John Ely. MEMOIES OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 195 From Thomas Eddy to Joseph Tallcot. New Yoke, 12th Mo. 8, 1821. Esteemed Fkiend : The trustees of the New York schools yesterday afternoon directed two thousand of thy Catechisms to be procured for the use of the four schools under their charge. In these schools are taught about three thousand poor children. I would recommend to thee to procure a set of stereotype plates for printing the Catechism in future, as in this way they may be printed for a very small expense, the plates being always ready, and would last for fifty years. Thou could then, at any time when a further supply should be required, have from one to five thousand struck off, which would only cost the printing and paper, as the expense of setting types would be entirely saved. The plates may be got in five or six days after speaking for them, at a cost of only eight or nine dollars. To make them cheap, would be the means of vending a vast num- ber throughout the United States, as the character of them- is well established, by the united approbation of all religious denominations. The trustees of the ~New York School Society have also directed to have stereotyped "Scripture Les- sons." This work was prepared by Stephen Grellet and William Allen, when at St. Petersburgh. The emperor of Eussia ordered it to be translated into the Russian language, and to be introduced into all the schools in his empire. It has been translated and published in Greece, Italy, Spain, and Germany, and many editions in England and Ireland. It is one of 196 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. the most popular and useful works that has appeared in latter times ; it seems as a substitute for the Bible in schools, and it is better calculated for usefulness among the children, and may be sold for sixteen cents. The trustees are to give two hundred and seventy- five dollars for the stereotype plates. I send thee by mail a London copy of the work. A gentleman born in Lima, Peru, was here a few months ago, to whom I gave one of thy Catechisms. Lie was of course educated a Roman Catholic. He appeared a religious, valuable man, and of liberal sentiments, though he highly disapproves of the great and abominable superstition of his own church. Lie has traveled much, and was educated at a university in old Spain ; a man of great family and fortune, and travels solely for the purpose of acquiring informa- tion relative to schools and all kinds of charitable in- stitutions in Europe and the United States. He said the inquisition in Peru was completely abolished, and was very desirous of having the minds of the people so enlightened as to do away the influence of the priests, and let the people judge and act for them- selves as to principles of government and religion. He was extremely gratified with thy Catechism, and said he had not met with any one thing that so much pleased him, and that the first thing he would do after his return to Lima, should be to translate and print it for general use ; and as there are no printing presses in his country, they not being al- lowed heretofore, he purchased one here, which he took home with him. I am thy affectionate friend, Thomas Eddy. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 197 From Henry Ford. Elmera, FeVy loth, 1822. My Dear Friend : About an hour ago I received an additional token of your remembrance — the re- port of the Managers of the Society for the Preven- tion of Pauperism. Although I am constrained to own myself neglect- ful in not sooner replying to your previous letter, yet I am happy to number myself, and to perceive that you still number me, amongst your friends. To whatever cause my neglect is attributed, I do not own it to be owing to any diminution of that re- gard which I have felt for you, from the commence- ment of our acquaintance ; and I feel to thank you for this, and every other favor of a like kind, which you have been pleased to communicate. My little ones, at least those capable of reading your good books, are well acquainted with the name of Joseph Tallcot, the friend of their father, and of all men ; who, after the example of his Divine Mas- ter, is going about doing good, and directs his benev- olent labors toward the good of children. I hope you will distinguish this from the language of flattery, which I trust I abhor as much as I am confident you do ; I intend it as a God speed to your work and labor of faith, and love to the name of Christ. For myself, I am for the most part of the time greatly depressed under a view of the little I effect in the cause of humanity. It seems to me it will be likely to fill me with sorrow when I come to die — to have to reflect on a life wasted and powers squandered. 198 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. I am incapable, much of my time, of mental exertion, by reason of a lethargic feeling, which dissipates thought and destroys memory ; yet I would not inti- mate that I account myself as serving a hard Master, or an austere man. But he would have me faithfully occupy what talents he has given me ; and to obtain peace of mind, I find it necessary to endeavor to im- prove the passing hour, that I maybe able to give an account, in a hope of acceptance and forgiveness, and an admittance through mercy into his kingdom. I feel, I hope, a growing interest in every effort of humanity and Christian benevolence ; to help igno- rance to see, and grief to smile. May all efforts to benefit man, to extirpate vice and its endless cata- logue of woes, be crowned with success. In this town a practice has prevailed since its set- tlement, which has made, and still continues to make, dreadful ravages upon the well being of society in every respect. I mean the manufacture and sale of ardent spirits. Since the settlement of this town, it has been the immediate cause of the destruction of at least one hundred lives, and I think likely twice that number ; and you will think it strange, when I con- fess that I have done little or nothing to stay its rav- ages. I have looked on with distress, and seen the enemy so strongly entrenched, that I have hitherto been at a loss how to commence the attack upon it. I trust that it is not from fear of alienating the af- fections of my friends, that I have thus forborne, as I would readily engage in any plan, if sure that it was right, although it might be a painful service. I entirely decline all use of ardent spirits, and have MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 199 borne my decided testimony against making and using it, when it came fairly in my way. But I have also thought of making it a business of going to each distiller, and endeavoring, by the best arguments in my power, to persuade them to desist from continu- ing the manufacture. I have also thought of endeav- oring to persuade our church-members and the prin- cipal farmers to abandon the use of it in the prosecu- tion of their business. I had some other things to say, but my paper is full, and I must therefore, for the present say, affec- tionately, farewell. Hexet Ford. The following letter to Phebe Field is without date, but is supposed to have been written in the year 1822: SrXTH-DAT EvEXING. This afternoon, on sitting down in my house, my meditations were so pleasantly directed to objects appertaining to the prosperity of the good cause, that I seemed almost to forget the pain which I had been suffering, occasioned by bruising my hand. I have, in times past, had many gloomy hours in looking on the dark side of things, and particularly as related to our dear society. But of late I am a good deal inclined to endeavor to bear the sorrows of this world, and forget the things that are behind, and press forward toward the mark for the prize ; and I believe I never before experienced so much of that situation of mind recommended by the apostle, — "Rejoice evermore, and in all things give thanks." 200 1IEMOIES OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. We yesterday made a pleasant visit with Asa and Ruth Potter. I had to consider the many exercises and conflicts of mind I have experienced on account of the school at Aurora, and for the preservation of these dear friends. The institution having prospered in their hands, and they now having returned with peaceful minds to their quiet habitation, is no small consolation to me. They have also opened a pretty little school, and by a little encouragement it may perhaps become just what will suit Friends for their daughters, and so leave Aurora for the children of others exclusively. I have thought very much about our relinquishing it, as it did not seem likely to answer the design. But my prospect has now entirely changed. It now looks best to me that we give renewed close attention to it, making some little alterations so as to correspond with our present views ; and then visit it oftener, especially as there is some deficiency for want of a suitable female head. Let us, as much as possible, be of one heart and of one mind, for in unity there is strength. My reflections and feelings are a good deal inter- ested about our little publications. The concern has cost me much exercise and conflict of mind, besides care, time, and money. The cooperation of the sis- ters is now much needed. Much depends on them, as relates to carrying the thing into effect. To sit down at home and collect such pieces and sentiments as the best kind of love may dictate, and have them impressed on the minds of the children of Friends and friendly people, from DeEuyter to Chatauque, MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 201 and from Ontario to Deerfield, is a concern, the pros- pect of which is truly animating ; and I believe it is one of the best concerns I have ever been engaged in. And I think it will be useful to parents, as well as to children, if they can be prevailed upon to take hold of and use the tool put into their hands. Per- haps at the time of your answering the queries, thou may feel a freedom to call the attention of the sis- ters to the subject. If the plan should be carried into effect here, Friends in newer countries, where it will perhaps do more good than with us, may follow the example. I should be glad to have thee pay attention to as many of our little friends as thou conveniently can, so as to enable thee to act from thy own observations and reflections. Dear James Mott, in a letter to me, justly remarks, that there are other means of promo- ting the reformation of the world besides preaching. I have thought that the promoting of reading well chosen publications, and inspiring the minds of chil- dren with a love for such reading, may be a very con- siderable means, with the Divine blessing, to enlarge the borders of Zion and strengthen her stakes. It is very observable that our young people are generally less acquainted with the Scriptures than their fathers and mothers were at their age. This will certainly be a great loss to them. Our plan is calculated to provide a remedy. Joseph Tallcot. 202 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOt. Philadelphia, UK Mo. 4, 1822. Esteemed Fkiend, Joseph Tallcot : We have had before our society thy interesting communication, dated 3d Mo. 10th, and feel much obliged by the privilege thou hast granted us, and we unite with the alterations proposed. The Catechism is our principal object; many of the reading lessons attached to it we have already published ; it is not deemed expedient to retain them all ; and as the time for holding our Yearly Meeting has nearly arrived, we shall defer publishing it for the present. We sympathize with thee in thy labors for the pro- motion of truth, and the lively interest thou manifests for the welfare of the dear children and youth, and we should be glad to cooperate with thee in any plan to aid thee in the prosecution of thy benevolent pur- pose. But our means are very limited ; the associa- tion consists of but twenty-four members, and most of that number are by no means wealthy ; a majority, perhaps, subsist by our own exertions. There are a few persons, not of our society, who contribute two dollars yearly. We endeavor to move in sim- plicity, and be contented to be the least of all the servants. We have, since the organization of the society, pub- lished twenty thousand tracts, in twelve numbers. There is no doubt, as thou observes, that there are many liberal-minded Friends in our Yearly Meeting ; yet there is not a general openness toward the dis- semination of tracts. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 203 Signed on behalf and by direction of the Female Tract Association of Friends of Philadelphia. - Mary Hughes, Clerk. From Gideon Curtis. Homer, UK Mo. 16, 1822. Esteemed and Beloved Friend, Joseph Tadlcot : For a few days past my mind has been led to review times and seasons that are past, and I hare been sol- emnly tendered in the retrosj)ect of those seasons when thyself and thy dear Sarah have visited at our house ; in some of which I believe the Great Shep- herd of souls was sensibly present, and, as it were, covered us with the mantle of his love. And not- withstanding this life seems checkered with a great variety of shades and changes, and like the great ocean, surge succeeds to surge, and our best state is truly militant, yet with grateful heart be it men- tioned, there are also seasons of rest ; yes, seasons of peace, which the world can neither give nor take away. I have sometimes seasons of mourning on account of my unfaithfulness, and seasons of j oy and thank- fulness for continued preservation. At this time I am favored with a feeling which makes poverty rich, and which loves the tents of Jacob more than all the treasures of Egypt ; under a sense of which I felt a desire to write thee, that thou might weep with those that weep, and rejoice with those that rejoice. • Farewell. Gideon Curtis. 204: MEMOIES OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. From Joseph Tallcot to Joseph C. Dean. Soipio, 10th Mo. 28, 1822. Deae Cousin : I have not forgotten the desire ex- pressed in one of thy letters, that I should communi- cate my reasons for dissenting from thee with re- spect to some sentiments contained in thine. But I have felt very poor and low in my mind, and not quali- fied to say much on so important a subject. I have also an idea that anything like disputation is not apt to be beneficial to either of the parties. These con- siderations have prevented any attempt to comply with thy proposal ; yet at this time feeling a degree of that love which produces freedom, I am willing to offer some little remarks, which I hope will do no harm to either of us. I will firstly speak of my own experience. For more than thirty years, I trust it has been the pre- vailing desire of my mind to avoid evil, and to do good. I have, from time to time, been encouraged in the pursuit of the path of apprehended duty, by the consolations of the spirit ; at other times I have experienced seasons of gloominess and discourage- ment. I apprehend every Christian experiences much the same. In those gloomy seasons the pros- pect of future happiness seemed to lose its animating influence ; to bury my gloomy feelings sleep was de- sirable, and I almost fear, that if eternal sleep had been offered me at such a moment, I might have em- braced it, and relinquished the struggle for future bliss. But what the hope of future good failed to ef- fect, was excited by the alarming consideration of MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 205 the awful state of the unredeemed in a never ending eternity. Of course, I conceive a belief in the anni- hilation of the wicked, if it had gained my assent, might have rendered abortive my pursuit after future felicity. In the next place, I have been considering how sinners are generally awakened to a sense of their condition ; and as far as my knowledge extends, the first awakening sensations are those of terror, and fear- ful apprehensions of the state of the wicked hereaf- ter ; and after being humbled and brought down by these fearful considerations into a state of con- trition, then it is that they experience forgivness, and are consoled and permitted a foretaste of the happi- ness of the redeemed. Although many have not given much place to these convictions and reproofs of instruction, so as to witness the consolations of the spirit, yet a belief and a fearful foreboding of the final calamities of the wicked, will have more or less influence in restrain- ing them from wicked acts. Judge Blackstone says, " Of all the parts of a law, the most effectual is the vindicatory ; " and Locke, in his deep and excellent consideration of the human understanding, says, — ■ " The dread of evil is a much more forcible principle of human nature than the prospect of good." These sentiments, I conceive, are corroborated by common experience, and by the general tenor of Scripture. I have also made it a subject of thought, whether those liberal-minded people, who have conceived that eternal punishment is irreconcilable with the charac- ter of a benevolent Creator, are more pious and happy ZUt) MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. than other people. Although there are, doubtless, some sincere ones amongst them, yet I do not find anything peculiarly flattering as regards their good- ness or happiness. Indeed, I am at a loss to find a motive for adopt- ing such a sentiment ; for, admitting it to be correct, they realize no peculiar advantage from it, as those of an opposite belief would equally share with them in the consequences. But in case they should be mistaken, the loss to them might be incalculable. It is hardly a mark of sound judgment to pursue a road which may lead them estray, when the safe one is open before them. ISTow, dear cousin, having simply stated such re- marks as occurred to my mind, I leave them for thy consideration, much desiring thy comfort and happi- ness every way. It is, doubtless, somewhat of a try- ing season with thee ; may thou be influenced with a portion of that wisdom which will lead in the path of safety. Amongst other considerations, thou wilt doubtless be disposed to ascertain how far thy movements con- tribute to thy own happiness and quietude of mind, and that of thy dear family. Farewell. Affectionately, Joseph Tallcot. From William Foster ', Jim., of England, to Joseph Tallcot. Troy, 11th Mo. 18, 1823. Mi Dear Ffjend : I intend to leave these two pamphlets under the care of some friend, to be for- MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 207 warded to thee at Xine Partners. I think they will be likely to prove interesting to thee, and probably to other Friends, to whom thou may have an opportunity of showing them, in the course of thy travels. I also enclose thee a copy of a list of Scripture re- ferences in testimony to the coming of our Lord, and his gracious mediatorial office, &c. I have not ex- amined it throughout, but .as far as I have gone, I think it very valuable, and am of the opinion that it might be useful to many of our young people, and have a tendency to establish them in the faith deliv- ered to the saints. I hope thou wilt have the kindness to write me du- ring thy visit in Dutchess county ; a letter may at any time be addressed to the care of Thomas Eddy, New York, or John "Warder, Philadelphia. It is now cold, wintry weather, and we have to re- turn to the westward as far as Brookfield, but I de- sire to be resigned and devoted, in all things, to the service of my blessed Eedeemer, and to follow him into every place, whithersoever he may be pleased to lead me. With love to thy dear wife, and in hope that thou wilt bear me in remembrance during the residue of my tribulated pilgrimage in this land, and when the wide Atlantic may roll between us, I am thy affectionate friend, "WrLLiAii Foster, Jun. 208 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. From Joseph Tallcot to Phebe Field. Amawalk, 2d Mo. 4, 1824. Dear Sister : We have now been absent from home two months, and have been very much favored as regards health. "We attended several meetings at Kme Partners and that vicinity, and one at each of the places where we formerly resided, and visited many of onr old friends ; then came by the way of Croton, Purchase, Sawpit, and Mamaroneck ; had a meeting, and visited our aged Aunt Kebecca ; she is smart and green in old age, being eighty-one. She waits on her company with her usual politeness. She is, and has long been, a mother in Israel. One prac- tice of hers was particularly interesting to me ; she has long been in the habit, when going to meeting, of taking fruit, cake, or plums in her pocket, to hand out to little folks after meeting, and commending them for orderly conduct and quiet sitting, and man- ifesting her love for them. Such kind attention would have a tendency to produce love in children toward their older friends, and render the attendance of meetings pleasant to them. The company of the young has a great tendency to awaken the sympathies of the aged who travail in spirit for the arising of that water which maketh glad, and which, in an especial manner, flows toward the young and tender plants. We have visited a number of our aged Friends, and were consoled at finding them patient, quiet, and affectionate, like good little children. Last week was held the Quarterly Meeting of Pur- MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 209 chase, where we had the satisfaction of the company of Anne Braithwait, an eminent minister from En- gland. Her religions labors were extensive and edi- fying, tending to settle the minds of the hearers on the rock, Christ Jesus, and to silence that floating, speculative spirit, which at present is the divider of the brethren, and threatens the peace and prosperity of the church. Ann Shipley and Hannah Field have gone with her to Nine Partners, but I do not learn that she has any idea of going to the west ; her pros- pect is confined pretty much to the seaboard. "We have spent two nights with thy Rebecca ; she thought herself not quite well enough to attend meeting, but expeets to meet us to-morrow at D. Miller's. Many of thy friends inquire affectionately after thee. Myself and thy dear sister Sarah unite in much love to thee and all inquiring friends, the children in particular. Joseph Tallcot. From Joseph Tallcot to Isaac and Anne Thome. Skaneateles, 6th Mo. 25, 1824. Dear Frie:nd : My wife suggested writing to you by your brother, who, with his wife, is in our neigh- borhood. I feel quite disposed to comply, could I be furnished with matter that would be interesting or instructive ; but it is much my lot to be very des- titute of every sensation that is valuable or desirable. I have, however, felt a sympathy with Anne on ac- count of the turn her prospect has taken. Was it in 210 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. my power to say anything that would be comfortable to her, I would not withhold it ; but I trust her de- pendence for strength and consolation is directed to a higher and more sure source than man. I trust she will, as much as possible, abide in quiet resignation, and endeavor to shut out the reasoner. From the ef- fects of her ministry on my mind, I have long es- teemed her a living minister, and I have seen no- thing to obstruct the prospect she had in view ; yet I am willing to hope the course the concern has taken may be for the best. Indeed, we have high author- ity for believing that all things will work together for good to those who love the Lord. That this may be the happy experience of dear Anne is my earnest desire. Sister Phebe Field is considerably improved in health ; so she is able to attend meetings, and has lately had two appointed ones. My wife unites in love to yourselves and family ; also to M. and R. Comstock. Tours, affectionately, Joseph Tallcot. To John V. iT. Yates, Superintendent of Common Schools in the State of New York. Respected Friend : A few days since, I accident- ally met with an extract from the report of the com- mittee who framed the plan for the organization of our school system. This document contains a very interesting item on the subject of the use of the Scrip- MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 211 tures in schools ; and I was involuntarily inspired with a desire that some medium might be devised for inviting the attention of the good people in each town, who take an interest in promoting the welfare of the youth, to this important subject. My desire has since been strengthened by perceiving that, with a view of promoting the moral and religious as well as the literary improvement of the scholars, the Su- perintendent has recommended the formation of edu- cation societies, and that this, in several instances, had been complied with. A plan of this nature, if judiciously managed, will, I conceive, be likely to produce important and bene- ficial results, one of which I hope will be the intro- duction of the Holy Scriptures into every school, and occasionally, at least, into the hands of every class. I am aware that objections have been suggested against the Scriptures as a school book, especially in schools consisting of both sexes. This objection may, however, be removed by using judicious selections, designed especially for the use of schools. A work of this kind, by William Allen and Stephen Grellet, is extensively used in various parts of Europe, and re- cently stereotyped in Kew York, and is perhaps pre- ferable to anything of the kind. My attention has been much drawn to the subject, and I felt an inclination to impart to thee some of my views ; cordially desiring that wisdom may mark all thy movements in the performance of the exalted du- ties of thy official station, so that a blessing, through 212 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. thy labors, may descend upon thousands of the rising generation. I send thee six copies of the American Practical Catechism, for the use of schools consisting of chil- dren whose parents are attached to the different re- ligious societies. It has been introduced into the New York free schools, and some others in the country, and been examined by clegymen of the different re- ligious denominations, and received their approbation. As a great variety of religious sentiments abound in our free country, it would of course be attended with no small difficulty to frame a work of this na- ture, of any considerable extent, free from all objec- tions. The numbers sent thou may please hand amongst thy friends, for examination, and should thou approve of the plan, and deem it advisable to make an attempt to introduce them into schools, either in its present form or with some alterations, I should be pleased to hear from thee on the subject. I am, with due respect, thine, &c. Joseph Taixcot. Joseph Tallcot having resided on his farm in Scipio about sixteen years, sold it, and removed with his family to Skaneateles, in the spring of 1823, and set- tled on a small farm adjoining that beautiful lake, where he lived sixteen years, during which time he continued actively engaged in promoting the various benevolent enterprises of the day. It may not be amiss to mention that he accepted the appointment from the governor of inspector of MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 213 schools, as a means to aid him in visiting schools through a large portion of western ISTew York, in which service he continued for a number of years ; distributing his books and tracts among the teachers and children ; addressing the schools in a kind, fa- miliar manner; imparting advice and encouragement, and clearly evincing that it was love alone which prompted him to these labors. To the State Superintendent of Schools. Esteemed Friend : A few weeks ago I forwarded thee, for inspection, " Scripture Lessons," and the " American Practical Catechism," accompanied with a few remarks on the subject of education. For several years past I have had an idea that much improvement might be made in conducting our com- mon schools, tending to the promotion of piety and virtue, and of course to the lessening the number of crimes. I was gratified with the governor's remarks on the subject ; and as there will probably be a committee on the school business, I wish the privilege of impart- ing to them some of my views on the subject. I therefore take the liberty of communicating to thee, as the head of the school department, that which I should be glad to have imparted to them and other members of the legislature, at thy discretion. The governor makes a very interesting statement relative to the moral effects of the charity schools in the city of New York. Very similar reports have been made respecting the conduct of persons who 214: MEMOIKS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. have been educated at the numerous schools under the patronage of the British and Foreign School So- ciety ; as also those for instructing the adult poor to read the Holy Scriptures. Are not these plain facts sufficient to awaken our inquiries as to what farther can be done for promo- ting Christian morals in our common schools ? Improvements are usually progressive, and in pro- portion to the inquiries and exertions of ingenious and enlightened men. If one dozen such men were to cooperate "with the Superintendent, and make it their business, under the patronage of government, to devise and promote improvements in rearing the tender thought, and teaching the susceptible minds of children, would it not be as reasonable to exj)ect success in this engagement, equally with the same endeavors directed to any other object ? The monitorial system of education might doubt- less be introduced into all our cities and large vil- lages. And in the country, where this would not be advisable, other improvements might be introduced, one of which ought to be the introduction of the Scriptures. I am persuaded that many scholars now attending our schools, are very little more benefited by a knowledge of the sacred volume, than the chil- dren of Hindoostan. The improvement of morals and the dissemination of pious sentiments, is an important design of the founders and managers of charity schools. They en- deavor to devise means and pursue measures the best adapted to the attainment of their object. They not only introduce Scripture lessons, adapted to the capa- MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLOOT. 215 city and instructions of the learners, but much pains is taken to excite a love and veneration for those sacred precepts and examples. Teachers are sought for who are disposed to cooperate with the benevolent design. I have no hesitation in believing, that much of the happy effects of these schools is the result of a well managed instruction of the children in the Holy Scriptures. Is not this practicable in our district schools ? In our free government it is wisely designed that church and state be kept distinct. This idea is cer- tainly correct, as regards partiality to any particular sect ; but it ought not to be construed as prohibiting the legislature and the school department from pro- moting those habits and virtues which are indispen- sable to the very existence of our national fabric. Deprive us for only one century of the influence of the Bible, where would be our dignified nation, and all its now flourishing institutions, both civil and religious? It might be said by some, that parents and chil- dren may resort to their places of worship, and re- ceive moral and religious instruction ; but it should be recollected that many children are not in the habit of attending those meetings. In one large town in our state, there has recently been held a meeting of the inhabitants comprising the different religious denominations, for the purpose of taking into consideration the propriety of introdu- cing the Scriptures into their schools. It was an in- teresting and harmonious interview, and resulted unan- imously, as the sense of the meeting, that the Xew 216 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. Testament ought to be used as a class book in every school, and that once a day the teachers should se- lect and read an appropriate portion of Scripture, while the scholars give silent attention, and observ- ing a short pause after reading. Would not a simi- lar practice in all our schools meet the approbation of enlightened Christians, and be productive of much good? Many of our schools are too large. Habits of idle- ness, slow improvement, and inaccuracy in every branch of learning, is the unavoidable consequence, all which tend to immorality. The monitorial system should be introduced into such schools, or they should be divided. In some instances, the difficulty is ob- viated by constructing the school-house with two rooms, and when the school becomes too large for one teacher, another may be employed. I believe overgrown schools are a greater evil than is gener- ally supposed ; excessive economy defeats its own object. A well framed circular, issued annually by the Su- perintendent, would be likely to be useful. Respectfully, thy friend, Joseph Tallcot. Joseph Tallcot to Pheb'e Field. Skaneateles, 5th Mo. 8, 1825. Dear Sister : I have long esteemed it a valuable habit for youth to acquire, to take delight in filling up leisure time in the perusal of instructive books. I have known young persons very much improved by employing First-days, and other seasons, in read- MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 217 Ing and writing ; it has a tendency to compose and steady their minds, and prevent their mingling with improper company, where they might meet with injury. With a view of promoting this, desirable object, these Scripture Questions have been framed, and as parents are disposed to take an interest in it, and aid the children in finding the passages referred to, and encourage and assist in forming the answers, it will become a pleasing employment, both to parents and children. In performing this, any levity in expression would be indecorous, yet not too much gravity, but rather conduct the instruction in an affectionate, familiar manner. I conceive that many important improvements re- main yet to be made in our society, in various ways, amongst which is the manner of employing our time on the clay set apart for improvement and rest. I send thee twenty-five copies of the Scripture Questions for thy distribution in families where the design will be likely to be carried into effect, in the neighborhood of Purchase. Should these be accept- able, and more be wanted, please let me know it. I am of the opinion that the time will come, when the more sensible portion of our society will see the utility of adopting various methods to attract, interest, and instruct the rising generation, with a view of endeav- oring to attach them to the best of causes ; and I hope the present attempt will add at least as much as one sand on the shore. Thine, affectionately, Joseph Tallcot. o 218 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. From J. Tallcot to Phebe Field. Skaneateles, Sth Mo. 15, 1825. Dear Sister: "A Christian must suffer." This sentiment was expressed by a person of eminent pi- ety at a solemn time, and I have no doubt of its be- ing correct. I have reflected much on the effects of suffering for righteousness' sake. The humane John Wool- man felt inclined to take passage for England in the steerage, where he experienced privations and incon- veniences in common with the sailors ; and the effect produced was a tendency to increase his sympathies for them, and inclined him to make great allowances for their faults. A dear friend in London feeling her mind drawn in sympathy with poor, suffering criminals, devoted a good deal of time in visiting them, and thereby cul- tivating and increasing those sensations in her own heart, while she was instrumental in softening their obdurate hearts, and producing kindred emotions in their neglected minds. If the ruler of a nation, from similar motives, should devote a year to visit the criminals in his do- minions, inquiring tenderly into their history and circumstances, relieving their necessities, ameliora- ting their condition, and giving them the best of ad- vice, with assurances of pardon to all who were dis- posed to reform, would it not be likely to have a great tendency to promote and strengthen virtuous principles in their minds, and thereby produce a great reformation % Yes ; I am apt to think that the effects MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 219 would astonish, the world. But how much more should we be astonished, if we could but realize the effects of the sufferings of Him who declared, " If I am lifted up, I will draw all men unto me." Kow this drawing seems to be effected through suffering. " I come," says he, " not to send peace, but a sword." When the natural or unregenerate man realizes his state of depravity, he is brought under condemna- tion, or under the operation of the sword ; by this process his spirit is humbled and contrited, and is ready to cry out, " A Savior, or I die ; a Eedeemer, or I perish." In all succeeding stages of refinement, there is a suffering with Christ from time to time, previous to reigning or rejoicing in his goodness. This view of the subject has afforded a little strength to my mind, as regards the suffering which is often experienced in our religious meetings. We sometimes call such meetings " hard meetings," but if we endure them in a proper manner, they will be- come the most profitable seasons dispensed to us. Our early Friends had manifold outward suffer- ings, which brought their minds into a fit state to be acted upon by that grace which bringeth salvation. At present, our sufferings are in spirit, but no less real or acute. O, that I may learn to profit by suffer- ing, as well as all other dispensations meted out to me, so that I may really be as I ought to be. A very interesting part of the Holy Scriptures to me, has always been where we have an account of the effects of the preaching of the gospel by the apostles, where they enforce the doctrine of salva- tion by Christ. This doctrine was attended by a 220 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. power which pierced the hearts of the hearers, gath- ered many into the saving, experimental knowledge of Christ within, the hope of glory, and united the brotherhood. The same doctrine, preached by our early Friends, had similar effect. But when new or different doctrines have been preached amongst Friends, what has been the effect? Has it tended to build up one another in the faith which works by love ? to harmonize the brotherhood, and cement the bands of union, or gather many to unite in fellowship with us? Without entering into labored reasonings on ab- struse points of doctrine, it may satisfy any sincere inquirer whether the " faith once delivered to the saints " is still to be depended upon, if we only care- fully trace the well known effects. We all unite in the expression of love to thee. Farewell. J. Tallcot. J. Tallcot to A. Cony. Skaxeaieles, 8th Mo. 25, 1825. Dear Friexd : Ci Family duties " are expressions not much in use amongst Friends, but the subject is certainly an important one. Those silent pauses which take place at our tables, are a part of those du- ties. Job Scott apprehended a deficiency amongst Friends on that account. Of latter time I have thought a good deal on the subject, believing the like deficiency still prevails too generally to our loss. In a recent time of sickness, on a retrospective view of past life, this subject presen ted to my view with com- MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 221 fortable sensations, apprehending that I had long at- tended to the concern as well as I could ; since then, I have felt an increase of the concern for myself and family, and also for my dear friends, and that it may be observed with solemnity and weight, with a labor maintained for external quiet and order, believing it essential at such times, as well as in our religious meetings. It seems to me that more attention and concern toward this subject by ministers and elders would be useful to them, and they better qualified to promote it amongst others. I believe it is seven or eight years ago that my mind became exercised about reading the Scriptures in my family more frequently than I had been in the practice of; and, after a time of consideration, we adopted the practice of reading a small portion of Scripture nearly every morning at our breakfast ta- ble, succeeded by a short, silent pause. In this duty I trust we have been frequently favored to participate measurably with the spirit of the writers, producing in the mind feelings of love, and silent aspiration to the source and fountain of all good. It has been sat- isfactory to us, and I have felt an affectionate desire that the practice may prevail more and more amongst my dear friends. I know that some Friends express a fear that such a practice would degenerate into formality ; but from our experience, I am not any more apprehen- sive of danger on that account, than that our reli- gious meetings will become so. I however feel no disposition to unduly urge my views on this subject, but let every one be fully persuaded in his own 222 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. mind. ""What is not of faith is sin." Dear John Woolman was in the practice of holding up things in a tender and affectionate manner for people to think of. As regards the education of children, besides that which may be considered purely religious, there are things of a civil nature which are not to be overlooked. Within a year past the subject has forcibly impressed my mind, and I have had an idea that if Friends come to feel the importance of the subject, some plans may be adopted to promote so desirable a concern. At one time I wrote a little sketch of what occurred to my mind, and if I can find the paper will inclose it to thee, though it may not be very intelligible, not being fully matured. But oh, for that union of spirit which gives energy to social operations. I have been led to admire the effects of the simple preaching the gospel of salvation by Christ, as held forth by the apostles ; what an effect it had to har- monize the brotherhood together, and gather souls to God. Great is the travail of my sj^irit, that dear ministers may be preserved as living oracles, always giving a certain sound, by which the assemblies of the people may be baptized together into the one spirit, which works by love, to the building one an- other up in that holy faith which works by love, and not by censure and unkindness. I feel a freedom in love to name some things which have come to my hearing of late, from various quar- ters, and given me much concern. I do not mean to charge them upon any individual, but mention them as a caution. It is said some of our friends are ad- MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 223 vancing an opinion that the Scriptures are not better than many other books ; that we must come away from the letter, and attend to the spirit and nothing else ; for what we receive through the actual organs of sense affects the outward man only ; that spirit cannot beget flesh ; that Christ was placed in a pro- bationary state, and acquired his divine character by his faithfulness to divine manifestations, and that he only died as other martyrs ; that we are under no ne- cessity to believe what we cannot understand ; that the transgression of Adam had no effect on his pos- terity, except through the influence of example and education. All these, and many more new ideas, have been suggested of late years, and I have no doubt but that in proportion as they prevail, weakness will increase and spread, and the divider of the brethren separate very many friends. And what is to be gained \ If it were possible to bring all men to believe one or all of these propositions, what would be gained ? It is the longing desire of my heart that ministers and elders, in an especial manner, may "hold fast that faith once delivered to the saints," and endeavor to guard the flock over whom they have influ- ence, against a floating, unsettled spirit, which is apt to be pleased with new things. Another view of the subject deserves some con- sideration. An apostle said, "If thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not chari- tably ; destroy not him with thy meat for whom Christ died." It seems there was a sympathetic care with the early believers not to offend, or make one 2 2 J: MEMOIRS OF JOSEril TALLCOT. another weak. Would it not accord with apostolic usage if, when we have a view of a subject which, if communicated, would be llkelj^ to offend or grieve a brother, that great tenderness toward such should be manifested, even if we should consider them weak? In writing this I feel much freedom of expression, which I trust grows out of the purest kind of feelings of friendship and love. The connection of flesh and spirit, and many other thing- which I fully believe, are nevertheless myste- rious to me ; and if I have had any view of the nature and operation of Christian redemption, I still acknowledge there remains unfathomable mysteries, which I have no wish to comprehend any other wise, than according to His time and His will. Thy friend, Joseph Tallcot. Joseph Tallcot to William Foster, Jim., England. Sjkaneateles, 9th Mo. 18, 1825. Dear Friend : We are informed that a Friend in Philadelphia, a short time ago, received a letter from Anne Braithwait, giving an account of the safe arri- val of our dear friends, Isaac Stephenson and William Foster, in their native land, to the embraces of their nearest ties of life. The circumstance was more interesting to my feel- ings than any similar one of the kind before. The consideration of so lengthy and perilous a journey, associated w T ith so many exercises and conflicts as must have been unavoidable in the present state of things in this country, now happily accomplished, tended to excite in my heart grateful emotions. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TAJLLCOT. 225 I often think of you both, with affectionate recol- lection of seasons that are past, and thyself in partic- ular, as our acquaintance was more considerable ; and such has been the sympathy and unity of spirit, that the distance from America to England never be- fore seemed to me so inconsiderable. Our last Yearly Meeting came to a conclusion for the Quarterly Meeting of Farmington to divide ; and the new one, to consist of Scipio, De Ruyter, and Hector, to be opened next week, under the name of Scipio Quarterly Meeting, with a committee from the Yearly Meeting to attend the opening. Not long after thy leaving Philadelphia, I received thy last token of kind remembrance, being a neat edition of Gurney's Letters on Christianity. I have done something in circulating several small publica- tions on that point of doctrine ; but I am not certain that they have been of much benefit. My own preservation seems at present to occupy nearly all my solicitude. I do, however, at times, feel my mind engaged for the preservation of the children and youth, with desires to do them good by inviting them to a perusal of the Scriptures, and have framed a number of questions to carry with me when I go abroad, for the purpose of handing out as opportunities occur. I will inclose a copy for thy ac- ceptance. I should be pleased to hear from thee by H. S., the bearer of this, on her return, and should be glad to be informed of the progress of Friends in thy coun- try, in their several benevolent engagements ; es- pecially of Elizabeth Fry and others, in laboring for MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. the improvement of criminals ; also of the employ- ment at present of Hannah Killham. The consideration of the state of society in our Yearly Meeting, often brings me very low; and, as regards myself, I anticipate very little besides suffer- ing. I hope to bear it patiently. The outward suf- ferings of our early Friends had a tendency to hum- ble and unite their spirits, and draw down the over- shadowing presence of the great Head of the Church. How far the spiritual sufferings of a little remnant will tend to the same experience, is not for me to say. All things are possible with God, and we are as- sured that all things will work together for «;ood to those that love him ; and happy will it be for those who realize this blessed experience. My wife and daughters unite with me in the ex- pression of dear love to thyself and wife ; also to Isaac Stephenson and A. Braitlnvait. Affectionately, farewell. Joseph Tallcot. Skaneateles, 10th Mo. 3, 1825. Dear Isaac and Anne Thoene : We cannot get time to write more than a few lines, to tell you that we do sincerely sympathize with you in your afflic- tion. We mourn with you ; it is a common loss. How fleeting and uncertain are all mundane com- forts ! Let us more and more set our hearts on things above, remembering that " they whose minds are stayed on the Lord, will be kept in perfect peace." MEMOIKS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 227 We have for months indulged the pleasing antici- pation of a visit from dear Anne. May our minds more and more center to that which will not in the end disappoint us. Farewell. Very affectionately, Joseph and Sakah Tallcot. P. S. We should be glad to receive a particular account of Isaac's sickness and death. J. T. Joseph Tallcot to Richard Mott. Skaneateles, 12th Mo. 19, 1825. Esteemed Fkiend : My thoughts have visited thee of late with such affectionate interest, that I conclude it might be right to manifest it by writing thee a few lines ; and it seemed to rest with me to call thy at- tention to an exhortation of George Fox to Friends in the ministry : " To stir up the gift in themselves, and to be faithful in occupying it." How far the re- vival of this ancient exhortation may be reasonable or applicable to thee, I do not pretend to know ; but I do know that it is accompanied with that love and sympathy which is disposed to endeavor to build up in that faith which works by love. It is possible that the present state of society with us may dispose some who have gifts and talents com- mitted to them to wrap them up in a napkin. Are we not in a wide world, containing souls as numer- ous and as precious as in any former day, and will not the duty of occupying talents be as valuable as at any period % 22 S MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLOOT. I have been so much tried with hearing our soci- ety charged with holding Deistical principles, and in observing so much ignorance to prevail with us in regard to our long established principles, that I have been led to frame a concise essay, principally extracts, exhibiting the views of our society relative to the di- vinity of Christ. This I did principally with the view of convincing some individuals of the incorrectness of their ideas on this important subject. I read it to several Friends and others, to my own satisfaction, and apparently the approbation of most others. The idea of printing it then occurred to me, and although the essay is a short one, yet being on doctrinal subjects, our Discipline makes it necessary that it should pass the usual or- deal, and I have accordingly sent it to Samuel Par- sons, to be presented to the Meeting for Sufferings. But, on further reflection, considering the state of things amongst us, I am apt to think little will be done with it ; I hope, however, it will be read and considered in that meeting, at least as the testimony of a weak brother in favor of the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. We are pleased with " Observations on the Impor- tance of Female Education," and I have introduced a number of them amongst Friends and others. My Sarah unites with me in expressions of love. Thy friend, Joseph Tallcot. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 229 Joseph Tallcot to Robert Underhill. Seiasteatles, 2d Mo. 10, 1826. Beothek Robert : Thy acceptable letter of last month came duly to hand, and was very interesting. "We had previously been informed of the decease of your dear Phebe. We remember her visit to our country -with satisfaction, and the remembrance of her is sweet, A number of our young Friends have been taken away of late, and though they go from the evils to come, yet as the loss is ours, we can but mourn. We have had several good visits of late from gifted Friends. They not only attended our meetings, but some of them have held meetings amongst those not of our society ; and their sound, old-fashioned doc- trines and labors appear to have had a uniting and settling tendency. Thy account of the revival of concern in your Quar- terly Meeting, on the subject of a guarded education of children, is" very interesting, and I wish a blessing may attend your labor of love. The welfare and prosperity of our society depend very essentially on the proper education of the rising generation. Im- provements in conducting it are yet to be made. Small neighborhood and family schools are desirable, and should certainly be promoted as far as practica- ble. Some of these are in operation amongst us, as well as with you ; and as it often happens that such schools are suspended a considerable part of the time, it is very desirable that parents should endeavor to fill up those intervals, in continuing the studies of 230 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. their children at home, by their own care and in- struction. I have sometimes been peculiarly gratified when calling at a Friend's house, to find the mother, while engaged in her domestic concerns, at the same time listening to hear and instruct her children in their lessons. At other times I have been equally grati- fied to find the young people, on winter evenings, around a table spread with books, slates, &c. And what is worthy of notice, these are generally not only the most orderly young people, but the best scholars amongst us. I know a mother who is peculiarly skillful in teach- ing ; she and her children read a little lesson to- gether, and converse a good deal on the subject — they in asking questions, and she in answering and explaining them. As I have endeavored to entertain and instruct young people on First-days, and at leisure seasons, in learning to read and write, I have had the satisfac- tion to see them pleased, improved, and benefited. And I take some of the best kind of satisfaction in endeavoring to promote such a practice amongst my dear friends. I am confirmed in a belief that a considerable re- formation is needed, as regards a proper division of our time, between the duties we owe to the body and to the mind. Is not too large a portion of our time and attention occupied in caring for the body, to the neglect of the mind ? I have no doubt but that we might, by careful attention in regulating our prac- tice, do much more good in the world, add much to MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 231 the relish of life, and attain more constant serenity of mind, which may prepare for the enjoyment of a peaceful immortality. For several years I had felt nneasy for want of a more uniform and regular practice of reading the Scriptures in my family, and at length I adopted the practice of reading at the breakfast table. I learn that our early Friends were more uniformly in the habit of such devotional opportunities than we are at this day. Too much or too little dependence on means should be avoided. The preaching of the gospel, and the reading of the Scriptures and other pious writings, have a tendency to animate and strengthen the mind, and lead it to cooperate with the offers of grace to the soul, like the gentle showers on the drooping plants. A certain pious mother had a large family of sons and daughters. She was not only concerned to set them a good example, but also to instruct them in the duties of life, and store their minds with senti- ments of piety and virtue. This she did, sometimes by familiar, affectionate conversation, adapted to their capacities. At other times this was accompa- nied with more solemnity, and often with reading the Scriptures. She occasionally followed them to their bedside, where her tears, entreaties, and prayers made deep impressions on their minds. The persevering and blessed effects of her pious care and labor are now visible to the third and fourth generation, and will be likely to descend to many yet unborn. Thy affectionate friend, Joseph Taulcot. 232 MEMOIKS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. From Joseph Talloot to his daughter Phebe. Yorktowx, 6th Mo. 15, 1S27. Dear Phebe: Although some of the sittings of the Yearly Meeting were stormy, and the state of many of our Friends very trying, yet we have on the whole made a good visit. Isaac and Anne Braithwait arrived two days after the close of the meeting ; they have now gone with Thomas Shillatoe and George and Ann Jones to Rhode Island Yearly Meeting, and Elizabeth Robin- son is on Long Island. They all appear to be excel- lent Friends. We spent about a week, after the meeting, in the city, visiting our friends and relatives, and some of them took us to the Female High School, House of Refuge, and some other places, all of which have been interesting. Last Seventh-day we returned to Purchase, and attended the First-day meeting there, and since, the Monthly Meeting at Mamaroneck, and made inter- esting visits to our old friends and relatives. Our dear venerable Aunt Rebecca Titus bore us company to Samuel Titus's, Richard Mott's, and other places near her home. Her company and conversation is interesting and sweet. "We also made pleasant visits with our dear old friends, Ester Griffin and Hannah Field. Indeed, we have perhaps never had a more satisfactory and strengthening visit with our friends than the present one. May it prove like the meal of the prophet, and sustain us through succeeding trying seasons. HEMOIES OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 233 A good man of old declared, that "Afflictions abide me." In the present trying time in our reli- gious society, little can be expected but sorrow and lamentation ; but may we, with him, be able to say in truth, "But none of these things move me." There remains to be the same good old narrow way of safety ; and this is the way of self-denial and the daily cross. May we, both old and young, with pa- tience and fortitude strive to pursue this way in un- shaken confidence. Accounts are confirmed that a large number of the members of Pennsylvania Yearly Meeting have sep- arated from the society, and last week held a great meeting, which adjourned to Tenth-month. Our dear love is to thee and all of our dear children. Joseph and Sabah Tallcot. Joseph Tallcot to Hiram F. Mather ', of the Senate of New York. Skaneateles, Vtih Mo. 25, 1827. Respected Fkieot) : The representatives of the So- ciety of Friends in the State of Eew York, have re- quested me to call on the members of the legislature residing in our county, and make them acquainted with our intentions to apply to the ensuing session of that body for relief from our sufferings in conse- quence of military requisitions. I was yesterday at Elbridge, and saw Judge Brown, and intended calling on thee, not being aware of thy absence at the Court of Errors. "We are not in the habit of being noisy on the sub- p 234 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. ject. Perhaps thou art not aware, that in the only little settlement of our people in the county of Onon- daga, there is annually a considerable suffering and waste of property, and a number of our young men have been kept in close confinement, like criminals, for not complying with military requisitions. All this we desire to bear patiently, becoming professors of the Christian religion, and to acknowledge our gratitude for the indulgences we have received under the various governments in which we are citizens. "We however deem it proper, in a respectful man- ner to inform those in power how far the laws of the land oppress those who cannot, for conscience sake, learn to destroy their fellow-creatures. That persecution for conscience sake should still exist in our land of boasted freedom, I am inclined to think is rather an unpleasant circumstance in the view of many of our worthy citizens. But the al- leged difficulty of allowing privileges to one part of the community, which are denied to others, with some presents a barrier to any plan of reform ; yet others, amongst whom is DeWitt Clinton, think the fact that our society support all their own poor, would be an equivalent for the exemption we desire. I cherish a hope that our lawmakers and men of influence will not relax in their endeavors to effect a remedy for every evil in our government, and thus become more " a terror to evil doers, and a praise to those who do well." In the present age there seems very little occasion to oppress or discountenance conscientious men ; we MEilOLKS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 235 hear of no complaints from any place of a redundancy of quiet, conscientious, peaceable inhabitants. As early as the days of the apostles, the rights of conscience and the laws of the land sometimes clashed ; and they boldly asked the question, which was the better way, " to obey God or man ? " And the like spirit has in all ages influenced the martyrs. I have no idea that a spirit of persecution at pres- ent is the cause of our sufferings, but rather a want of a clear understanding on the subject, which, I hope and trust, will be promoted by the contempla- ted interview. Thine, respectfully, Joseph Tallcot. The following extracts from several letters of Jo- seph Tallcot to his wife, were written during a jour- ney in company with Caleb McCumber, to attend a conference of Friends in Philadelphia, and other re- ligious service : HoESHAir, 7th Mo. U, 1829. My Dear Wife : We got along very well, and ar- rived in New York on -last Seventh-day evening, and found our relatives and friends generally well. "We attended the meeting for Sufferings on Second- day,, and on Fourth-day morning took passage in the steamboat and arrived at our friend, Isaac Bonsil's, at the Hospital in Philadelphia, in the afternoon. Next day we attended meeting in the large house in Arch-street. My feelings were affected with the re- membrance that the little company at home might be then convened, and resemble the sparrow on the 236 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. house top ; but even the little sparrow was not to be forgotten. We have called to see a number of Caleb's old friends, who are of the first rank in society, and were treated very kindly. On First-day we attended two meetings, and in one of these the few m Skaneateles came again afresh into my mind, with the encouraging thought, that to drink at the little rill might be as refreshing as at the stately river. Yesterday morning Charles Allen, a young elder, kindly took us in his carriage to Frankfort, where Thomas Chalkley once lived, and had a meeting in the forenoon, and one at Abbing- ton in the afternoon ; to-day one at Byberry, where had been a large meeting, now reduced to a few, who have been building a neat little meeting-house, such an one as I hope we may have at Skaneateles. Caleb seems to be favored in the ministry, and is much engaged in using the language of encourage- ment. We are to attend meetings in these parts the remainder of the week, and return to the city on First-day ; after which Caleb thinks of going to the Jersey side, and will probably- occupy the time there until the conference meets, on the last Second-day in the month. I am informed that Stephen Grellet is traveling toward our country, and will likely reach Skaneateles shortly. I hope E. will supply my place, and accom- - pany him onward. "We had a visit at our lodgings from Roberts Yaux ; also Catharine Morris, who is gone into the country with a brother in poor health. Also from Sarah Wis- MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 237 tar, who seemed very affectionate, and was urgent I should visit her 'in the country ; and several other Friends have called on us. Isaac Bonsil is a very pleasant man, and he and his Ann make us very wel- come, and she takes about the same care of our clothes that my Sarah would. He has kindly invited us to visit public works and institutions, and takes us in his carriage to the Mint, Fairmount Water "Works, &c. But I have seen no- thing here of greater interest than the printing estab- lishment, at New York, of the American Bible Soci- ety, where I saw thirty-three presses in operation, twelve of which were propelled by steam, and were managed by two young women each. The printing is neatly done, and they turn off about one thousand Bibles per day, as we were informed. I am very often diverted with Caleb's pleasantry .-- He pursues a similar course in all companies ; tells a hundred interesting anecdotes, which seem to flow almost spontaneously, and very often instructively, in a childlike simplicity of manner. He inclines to go amongst those who have been the greatest suffer- ers, and are depressed under it, feeling they need cheering up. I am inclined to think few, if any, pub- lic Friends get along with more general approbation and interest, both in and out of meetings. Seventh-month, 22. — I have, for a long time, been uneasy that there should be so much diversity in the Discipline of the various Yearly Meetings, so that some of them disown their members for causes which are allowed in others. This has tended to weakness, and I have a hope that the present conference will 238 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. lead to greater uniformity in the Discipline of the society. This I conceive is a leading consideration, as in regard to principles and doctrines, the several Yearly Meetings have issued very explicit declara- tions, and with entire unanimity of sentiment. Seventh-month, 29. — "We attended four meetings in New Jersey, and returned to the conference on Second-day. The numher in attendance is forty-five. On Third-day, Israel W. Morris took Isaac Thorne and myself to his home, five miles out of town, and returned yesterday morning. I am inclined to think that the committee will close its session this week, in which case I may reach home some time next week. Our kind host, Isaac Bonsil, says he recollects thee, and desires his love. Eighth-month, 1. — I have been favored with good health since leaving home until yesterday, when, at the house of John Paul, I was taken with a disor- dered stomach and severe pain in my head, which in- creased, and was accompanied with a nervous affec- tion, so that I shook all over violently, and thought it probable my exit was near. I wished to be con- veyed in a carriage to our home at the Hospital, where my feet were immediately placed in warm water, and cold water applied to my head, which af- forded relief, and being bled, this morning am pretty comfortable, and hope to start for home in two or three days. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 239 This important conference has been very satisfac- tory, and is expected to close this evening. My head is too weak to write more now. Eighth-month, 2. — I rested well last night, and am comfortable, and hope to be able to meet again with the committee to-morrow. It is not certain when the session will close. This morning had an interesting visit from Isaac Collins ; yesterday George and Ann Jones called to see me, as did Samuel Parsons, Joseph Bowne, and others. It has been a resting time to my mind since my indisposition ; I have enjoyed the company of my friends, and I believe I shall ever consider the en- largement of the circle of my acquaintance, during the present journey, as a valuable treasure. My physician advised me against attending the meeting to-day, and I have occupied the time in pe- rusing the last number of the " Friend." Second Day Morning. — The Quarterly Meeting of Philadelphia sits this morning, and as I feel stronger, shall venture to attend it with Caleb. In the mean time, our large sub-committee will be preparing busi- ness for the general committee. It is expected the labors of the conference will end soon. From Bamiid Parsons to Joseph Tallcot. FLrsniNG, 11th Mo. 12, 1829. Esteemed Friend : Thy letter of the 1st inst. was received on the 7th, which was the day for the Meet- ing for Sufferings, to which I stated the information 240 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. thou communicated in relation to the conveyance of the Nine Partners' School property, and it was the mind of Friends that it be sent to New York by mail, directed to William and Samuel F. Mott. The Meeting for Sufferings being informed that several members in the city had recently been im- prisoned for the non-payment of military fines, have concluded that the memorial sent to the legislature last year, should be again presented, and a commit- tee was appointed to perform the service. I was requested to inform thee that it would be ac- ceptable to the meeting if thou would see the mem- bers of your county on the subject, previous to their leaving for the Legislature. The Meeting for Sufferings also took into consider- ation the circumstances of the southern tribes of In- dians, the Cherokees, &c, and the disposition mani- fested by Government to remove them into the wes- tern wilds. A committee was appointed to prepare a memorial to the government of the United States, and produce it at an adjournment of the meeting on the first Third-day of next month; and information thereof is sent to the several Meetings for Sufferings on this continent. I have felt for thy Sarah and her sister Phebe Field, in these troublous times. I suppose they shrink from the disciplinary proceedings. It has been the case with others of us ; but feeling it a duty to do what we could in the ability afforded, we have felt the reward of peace. I should be glad to be remem- bered to them. Thy affectionate friend, Samuel Paksons. MEMOIKS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 241 Joseph Tallcot to Ms son D. Foueth-Day Afternoon. My Dear Son D. : Since being at thy house this morning, thyself and thy interesting family have been constantly in my mind, accompanied, as usual, with cordial desires for your welfare and happiness. In the first place, I want to remind thee of the vast importance of keeping, as much as possible, in a meek, gentle, affectionate temper of mind in thy family, and endeavor to govern them in love. The hurry and anxiety of business is very apt to lessen the qualifi- cation of a father for the very important duty of bringing up the children in the nurture and admoni- tion of the Lord, by example as well as by precept. I should be glad to do all in my power to strengthen thy mind in that which will promote thy own happi- ness, and the happiness and welfare of thy family. It is necessary for us to be engaged in business; but as the world is a hard master, let us take a little time to retire from it, and meet together with our friends in the middle of the week, and endeavor to unite in seeking for strength and wisdom to aid us in the performance of all our duties. Thou hast much to be grateful for as relates to thy dear wife and children. It is true, the care and gov- ernment of active children is attended with some anxiety ; but the more active they are, the more likely will they be, if carefully educated, to become useful in the world, and a comfort and staff to their parents in old age. We are likely to have a school for them, but they 242 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. will lack suitable employment to keep them out of harm's way at leisure times. I will venture to rec- ommend the following plan : Let George follow thy example, when young, in building a little hut for a shop, to be either a frame, or posts in the ground, boarded up with cheap stuff, twelve or fourteen feet square, with a window and door. Let him do as much of this as he can himself, and advise him about planning and fixing it. It will be well for his little brother R. to have an interest in it as a partner, for which purpose I will give him one dollar to pay for nails, also a window, and lend him some tools ; and it may be necessary to supply them with some more tools and a work-bench. And when completed, let their parents visit them often, inspect their work, and always smile on their juvenile labors, and en- courage their industry. It should be understood that other boys, except their cousins, should be rarely in- vited or admitted to their shop. The trifling trouble attending this would be greatly overbalanced by their learning the habit of industry, and the use of tools ; and what is of more consequence, it would aid to preserve them from rambling about and learning evil things, while thus innocently and usefully amused. I shall be pleased to visit and look upon them. Thine, affectionately, Joseph Tallcot. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 243 From Joseph ToJlcot to Asa Mead, of Hartford, Connecticut. Skaxeateles, H". T., 12th Mo. 30, 1830. Ee^pected Feiexd : I have just been reading thy interesting address, lately delivered before the Hart- ford County Peace Society. It is truly consoling to become acquainted with this valuable addition to the many, late testimonies in favor of one of the best causes. I notice thy reference to the " small, isolated, inac- tive denomination of Friends." This view of the so- ciety is not altogether incorrect ; yet I felt desirous that the author of such a valuable production should be animated and encouraged with a rather better view of his fellow laborers. The denomination of Friends, it must be acknowl- edged, are a small, and, in some degree, an isolated and peculiar people ; yet I hope they are not entirely inactive and useless in the creation. It has not been so much their design to render themselves detached and singular, but to pursue a straightforward, consis- tent Christian course, according to their conscientious views of religious duty. It may be matter of con- sideration, that as they were abundantly persecuted by various denominations, as they in turn had power, these denominations have incorporated into the rec- ords of those dark times, numerous' statements calcu- lated to justify themselves, and condemn the charac- ter of the persecuted. These records are read by men of general information, while those of Friends are par- tially known. 24:4 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. The society of Friends in Great Britain have taken a very decided and active part, in concert with the benevolent of other denominations, in promoting the numerous objects of charity and benevolence which have gone into operation there, in modern times — mis- sionary enterprise nearly excepted — and this has also been much the case in various parts of America. Their influence is acknowledged to have been . very considerable in improving the condition of persons there, as well as in promoting the penitentiary system here. As to missionary enterprise, the Friends have been a good deal affected with the conduct of Christians in attempting to convert the heathen, with the Bible in one hand and the sword in the other. They have as yet thought it right mostly to confine their labors to Christians, in order to convince them of the pro- priety of exhibiting an example more consonant with the letter and the spirit of the gospel. They have, in the first place, refrained from all warlike measures, and have patiently submitted, for conscience sake, to have their property distrained, or their persons imprisoned, to satisfy military requisi- tions, rather than compromise their testimony against war and bloodshed ; and when arraigned at court mar- tials, they have availed themselves of the opportu- nity of pleading the cause of the Prince of Peace. Opportunities of this kind have sometimes occurred during their imprisonment ; so that their sufferings, no doubt, have been a means of making impressions favorable to the examination of pacific sentiments. They, moreover, frequently memorialize in a re- MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 2i5 spectful manner their different Governments ; solici- ting forbearance to their suffering brethren, and set- ting forth the enormities and anti-Christian nature of war, and contrasting it with the principles of peace and love as taught by the author of Christianity. The tract accompanying this will afford a specimen. It has been extensively circulated, and not long since read in the legislature of 2sew York by one of its members. Many of our itinerant preachers have traveled very extensively, and preached to all classes, and the peaceable nature of the gospel of Christ has been a favorite theme. "We have long been in the practice of circulating, extensively, publications of our own, and of other writers, on the inconsistency of war; and although we are ourselves a Peace Society, yet of late years, since those not of our society have moved in the sub- ject and instituted other Peace Associations, our members, both in England and America, have united with them, and shared in their labors. The labors of our society have been considerable, and increasing, to ameliorate the condition of the people of color, and the aborigines of JSTorth Amer- ica ; also to promote the cause of temperance. . In all these concerns, Friends, for a long time, la- bored very much alone. But they are now happy in having a numerous host of worthy coadjutors in all these great subjects. May the Lord bless and pros- per them in their pious labors, and give them wis- dom and fortitude to accomplish his work, to their own peace and his glory. Thy affectionate friend, Joseph Tallcot. 246 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. From Joseph Tallcot to Isaac Collins. Skaneateles, 1st Mo. 4, 1830. Esteemed Friend: I lately saw a summary ac- count of the society of Friends in Hale's Premium History of the United States, printed by Collins & Hannay. The author has probably procured his in- formation from some of the ancient writings of our persecutors, and may have had no design in giving an unfavorable coloring to our character. Would it not be well if Friends should extend more care that cor- rect information should be given to authors who are about to publish such works? A splendid Geography, translated from the French by James Gr. Percival, is now publishing in Boston, which speaks of our society, styling us " Quakers or Tremblers, benevolent enthusiasts." Although this is not so objectionable as what has been said of us, yet it is calculated to make unfavorable impressions on the minds of strangers, and should be corrected in future editions of these works. At the present time, while not only ancient misrep-. resentations are operating against us, but those also of our own times, it may be incumbent on us to em- brace every favorable opportunity of giving the pub- lic correct information. It would seem that authors, designing their works for general use and sale, would be disposed to avoid unfair statements of this kind, from motives of interest as well as justice. It cannot be that they wish to misrepresent. I have for some years been wishing to see an abridgment of the history of our society, for the. use MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT, 247 of our children, and for distribution amongst others, that they may have an opportunity of being better acquainted with our history and religious principles than heretofore. I have no idea, however, that we are likely to get many converts to our society at pres- ent, but am of the opinion that Friends have been of some use to other societies, and may continue to be so, if we keep strictly to our principles and testimo- nies, and embrace suitable opportunities, in a kind, friendly manner, to let them become acquainted therewith. Many of our dear ancient Friends have devoted a large portion of their lives to disseminating the knowl- edge of the truth, but they have left something to be done by their successors. May all of us mind our callings. The aged are fast passing away from works to rewards, and the work must devolve on our shoul- ders if it continues to be sustained. I am glad to find that the cruel conduct of Geor- gia toward the poor Indians, calls forth the sympathy of the people. The proceedings of the citizens of New York, at their late meeting on the subject, are really praiseworthy. I suppose Philadelphians are no less sensitive on the subject. Perhaps it will be a fa- vorable opportunity for the different Yearly Meet- ings of Friends to manifest their unity as brethren, by simultaneously addressing our general govern- ment on the subject which has long arrested the at- tention and warm sympathy of our society — the wel- fare and preservation of an injured race of our fellow men. Our Meeting for Sufferings is about to petition our 248 MEMOIES OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. legislature for relief from military requisitions. The subject is so interwoven with the last revised consti- tution of our state, that a redress of the evil appears doubtful. Yet, with the benevolent, it might be sup- posed rather a hardship to take the last cow from a poor family, or drag a poor worthy man off to be immured in close confinement as a criminal, because he can- not, for conscience sake, support or promote a sys- em which even its advocates admit is a great cor- rupter of morals, and answers very little or no purpose in qualifying men for actual service ; and all at a time when our nation is at peace with all the world. I should be glad to be remembered to Isaac Bonsil and wife. Thine, affectionately, Joseph Tallcot. From Asa Mead to Joseph Tallcot. East Haetfoed, Jan. 15th, 1831. Feiend Tallcot : I was pleased to receive your kind letter of the 30th ult. I have known something for many years of some of your brethren, but I am convinced not of the most active among you. Of the publications of the Friends in this country I have seen few ; of those in England more, and I rejoice to recognize them as fellow laborers in the cause of peace. And whatever Christians of other denomi- nations may think of their doctrines in some respects, I think few will deny that they are nearer the gospel standard in regard to war, intemperance and slavery, than any other people. On these subjects they will MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 2±9 need no change of doctrine to meet the glories of the Millenium. They deserve great credit for consistency of con- duct, not even shrinking 'from suffering when called to bear testimony against war. Yet, dear sir, I have supposed their influence was nearly confined to their own denomination. The singularity of their dress and language has caused them to be regarded as dif- fering wholly from all other Christians, and unwilling to cooperate with any. Their opposition to war has been considered a sectarian peculiarity, and associa- ted with a singular dress, a rigid adherence to partic- ular forms of speech, &c, and their publications in this country having a limited circulation among the people of other denominations, perhaps, in fact, ow- ing to the style not being sufficiently adapted to the taste of the present day. These, with other circum- stances, may have prevented their doctrines, and even their sufferings, from producing the proper effects, which truth, consistently maintained, would otherwise have done. The formation of Peace and Temperance societies, and of societies to diminish the evils of slavery, and assist in abolishing it, should be hailed by the Friends with peculiar joy. It opens the door wide for the entrance of those favorite sentiments into every church and denomination. Where they have so long labored alone, they may soon hope for men of every name as helpers. The walls of sectarian prejudice are broken, and truth can reach every Christian, recommended by the approbation of those in whom he has confidence. Q 250 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. This'is one of the great advantages arising from the united operations of Christians of different names. They find there points of union, at least ; as they be- come more acquainted, theSe points multiply and ex- tend, and become lines, and at last they find only points of difference, or surfaces of union. Thus the way is opened for all to partake of the good that has been shut up in each part. I think I may say, without hesitation, that the American Peace Society would greatly rejoice to see the "Friends" uniting with them ; this may be the case to some extent, but I apprehend it is limited. Perhaps I did the "Friends" injustice in speaking of 'them as a small, isolated, inactive denomination. Of their numbers in the country I have but very im- perfect information. That they are more isolated than any other denomination, is, I think, true ; but this is by no means essentially a fault. Activity is comparative, and I could only compare the Friends with other Christians in E"ew England ; and in this comparison I may not be just. I rejoice in all they do to oppose war, intemperance and slavery, and to ameliorate the condition of the wretched. I think I have not given them credit for all the good they have done. I hope, now that they see others coming forward to help in the good works which they have long been doing, they will redouble their efforts, and meet with abundant success every- where. I have a large parish, numerous duties to perform, and very little leisure ; you will therefore excuse anything imperfect in this. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 251 "Wishing grace to yon, and the whole spiritual church of Christ, I subscribe myself your friend, Asa Mead. Joseph Tallcot to his Wife. New Bedford, 6th Mo. 3, 1831. Mr Dear Wife : We had a very pleasant passage to Newport, where we arrived in the morning timely for meeting. Next morning came on by stage to Dart- mouth amongst Peleg Gilford's connections, and at- tended meeting in course on Fourth and Fifth-days, and this morning came on a few miles to this place, being kindly received at the house of our dear friend, George Howland. We shall probably continue here a day or two, and attend their meetings in course, on First-day. On Fourth-day afternoon we had a meet- ing at a village called Padanaram. From this place to Providence is more than thirty miles, and Peleg seems to have no prospect of going there before the Yearly Meeting, if at all. On account of an appointment to Canada, I have made up my mind to go directly homewards after that meeting closes, unless I spend two days in ma- king a visit to Moses Brown and other friends at Providence. I believe Peleg's mind will be prepared to let me go; and I have mentioned the circumstances of the case to several Friends, and they assure me that he shall be encouraged and assisted in finishing his visit in prospect. I shall call at our cousins in New York, to meet or 252 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. hear from thee. Please inform our sister Phebe Field of the time of onr return home. It would be very- desirable to visit our dear friends a few days, but we must omit it at this time. Thine, affectionately, J. Tallcot. From Jane G. Mead to Joseph Tallcot. East Hartford, July 30th, 1832. Joseph Tallcot — Dear Sir : I took from the post- office, a few days since, a letter from you, directed to my dear departed husband. More than nine long months ago he finished his course on earth, and as we humbly trust ascended to the reward of the righteous. I was not surprised that intelligence of Mr. Mead's death had not reached you ; as he was unknown in your place, and belonging to a different denomina- tion, you would not be likely to hear of it, except from the public prints. The last report of the American Peace Society con- tains a very honorable mention of his services in that cause, and of his death. Mr. Mead possessed a warm, philanthropic spirit, and rejoiced in the success of truth and benevolent enterprise, by whatever denomination it was con- ducted. I purpose to send you, with this, a short obituary notice of my dear husband, published in the memoir of our beloved son, who preceded his father a little more than six months in the race to glory. His fa- ther, in writing the memoir of his son, endeavored MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 253 to exclude everything that could be considered sec- tarian, in order that the book might be serviceable to all parents and children. Should you receive this package safely, be pleased to let me know, by a pamphlet, or some other way. Yours, with respect, J axe G. Mead. From Jsoah Worcester to Joseph Tallcot. Beightox, Aug. 17t/i, 1832. My Dear Feiexd : I have received your accepta- ble letter, with the newspaper, which I think of send- ing to Boston. I have some doubts whether it will be necessary to republish the article in this region, as I have seen nothing reproachful to the Quakers in any of our papers for a long time. At present I think there is no denomination of Christians which stands higher in general estimation in this part of the coun- try than the " Friends," and I should rather be sorry to have it known here that they are reviled in other places. I am not in a situation to give you information rel- ative to the peace societies, except what you will gain from the report of the American Peace Society, of May last, which* I now send you. I also send the number of the " Calumet," which contains it. I think of sending you, with this, a small tract, the principal part of which I wrote for the " Christian Monitor," and which was also published by the edi- tor as a tract. I hope it will meet your approbation. Tours, affectionately, ~N. Woecestee. 254 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. From Jane G. Mead to Joseph Tallcot. East Hartfokd, Sep. 20th, 1S32. Respected Fkiend : I have been slow to acknowl- edge your kind favor of the 19th ult., not because I did not feel your generous kindness, but owing to a multiplicity of domestic avocations. Tour Catechism I like very much, and hope to de- rive much benefit from it, in instructing my children. Everything that relates to the instruction of children in knowledge and religion is interesting to me, and I feel a desire, as far as possible, to avail myself of every such advantage. "With the memoir of your friend I was much inter- ested, and have handed it to several to read. We felt, while reading it, that true religion operates alike, and speaks but one language, however diverse the names by which we may be called, or the creeds to which we give a particular preference. To the dying believer, Christ is all in all ; they find in them- selves no justifying principle, and flee alone to the all-atoning righteousness of the Savior. Many of her expressions were similar to those uttered by my beloved husband, near the closing scene. I think I heard your friend preach in my native town, in the state of Maine, some fifteen or twenty years since, and very well recollect her commanding appearance and discourse ; but I do not agree with your views in regard to female preaching, and think the general tenor of Scripture forbids it. In the very formation of the female frame and mind, God has ilEilOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 255 shown that woman was destined to move in a more retired sphere than the other sex. In some of our churches it is becoming somewhat common for brethren and sisters to meet, and pray and converse together, although some of our denom- ination are rigidly opposed to even this ; yet, for my- self, I do not see the impropriety of it where the heart is warmly engaged in honoring the Savior and seek- ing the salvation of men. Tour request to make some use of the remains of my beloved son, in the next edition of your Cate- chism, I have no objection to, and presume the pub- lishers and proprietors of the book will be equally willing. My greatest desire with regard to the me- moir is, that it may be useful to parents and children. Should you do anything of the kind, I should be glad to see one of them. I expect, in a short time, to leave this place, and reside for a time with my friends in Goshen, in the state of Maine. I shall send you a Portland paper containing a short notice of the ancient faith of the Friends. I was glad to see it at a time when infidelity is sweep- ing over our land. It seems as if all Christians who hold the great essential doctrines of the gospel, should be willing to lay aside minor points, and contend, in the spirit of love, earnestly for the faith once deliv- ered to the saints. I presume your wife sent me the memoir of H. F. Though I may never see your faces on earth, I hope we are friends and brethren in Christ, and striving to obtain the rest of Heaven. Let us, then, be dili- 256 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. gent, and set our standard of active holiness and obe- dience high, and ere long we shall arrive at that blest world, and mingle with those beloved ones who have gone before us. Your obliged friend, Jane G. Mead. From William Foster, of England, to Joseph Tallcot. Bkadpole, near Bkidpokt, Doksetshire, \ 3d Mo. 8, 1833. [ My Dear Friend : I have so good a remembrance of thy kind and fatherly feeling toward young peo- ple, that I am encouraged to hope thou wilt excuse me from making any apology for introducing to thy notice Alexander Metford, the son of my friend, Jo- seph Metford, of Bath, who is going over to the Uni- ted States, for the purpose of settling there. If he should reach Skaneateles, and it should be in thy power to recommend him to a situation, or give him an introduction to Friends at any other place, thou wilt confer a favor on his tender and anxious parents, and I shall feel myself obliged by thy kindness. I have a pleasing remembrance of thy kindness to me, and of the tenderness of thy spirit, and thy love to the Lord Jesus, and to those of whom thou couldst believe that they were endeavoring to approve them- selves his true disciples ; and I should be gratified by hearing more particularly of thee and thy dear wife, and your children and grandchildren. Pray tell me whether my namesake is living, as I should MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 257 like to send him a little present some day, to show that I acknowledge him. There must have been very many changes since I was in your country, — much that must have given thee pain ; and I can well believe that many have been thy sorrows and trials. I should truly value a letter from thee, my dear friend, to tell me of your little meeting, and of Friends in the west- ern part of the state of New York. I should espe- cially like to know what Friends in the ministry re- main in connection with our society in your Quar- terly Meeting, and in the adjacent ones ; whether you are able to keep up your schools to good satis- faction ; and how the colored people are getting on among you. A very general feeling of concern and sympathy for the poor slaves prevails amongst people of all classes in England, and all hope that measures will be adopted in the present session of our legisla- ture for th has become the order of the day; public measures, questions of polity, are all deter- mined with reference to men, and, as far as I can judge, we have become a time-serving, selfish, and subservient people. Yet I will not despair of the republic, but hope for a better state of society, when men will act with a single eye to the good of the country and the glory of God. There is yet another evil : The desire of becoming suddenly rich, seems to animate all classes of society, and I fear its demoralizing effects. I must not be un- derstood to object to the acquisition of property by a course of economical industry ; but this is vastly dif- ferent from that voracious spirit of getting rich, and MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 291 forgetting that we are God's stewards, and are ac- countable for the talents committed to us. The specimens of your efforts for the improvement of your society have not come to hand, and if you have got any, be kind enough to send them. I feel grateful for the good opinion you express of me, and beg you to believe, that, whatever little I may have done in the world, I have acted sincerely and conscientiously. With high respect and esteem, your friend, A. Spencer. Joseph Tallcot to Ambrose Spencer. Skaneateles, 1st Mo. 8, 1836. My Dear Friend : I have received and read thy kind letter, of the 5th inst., with much satisfaction. As the tracts which I forwarded have miscarried, I ^r'll send copies, if I can find any. Thy congenial sentiments in relation to district schools, together with the perusal of the first number of a periodical, published the present month in Al- bany, designed to promote the interest of these schools, have strengthened a hope that something will be done toward resuscitating these neglected fountains of mental improvement. With a design of doing what little may be in my power to promote that desirable object, I will make no other apology for so hastily answering thy letter. I am far less doubful than thyself, of thy capacity for promoting the object under consideration. I think it has been said that a few of the last years of 292 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. a wise man are often more beneficial to the world than all his life besides. I consider the present an improtant crisis in the history of these primary institutions. One reason for this conclusion is, that the districts are now commen- cing the organization of school libraries ; and an- other, the commencement of the periodical, which, if ably conducted, is to be hoped will serve as an en- tering wedge to other improvements. The fostering aid, however, of such men as have recommended the editor, will go far in giving it effect. As to the choice of books to compose these libra- ries, I do feel anxious. It is certainly a subject of vi- tal importance that the benevolent designs of the state, in relation to district schools, should be carried out in a wise and proper manner. I would venture to propose that the selection of the books be made by a board of managers, in a very careful manner ; the catalogue to embrace only such as are best adapted to promote the true and best interests of the children, and of the nation, as relates both to the lit- erary, moral, and religious instruction of the rising generation. There is generally a great neglect in visiting schools, by the officers, parents and employees. From my observations I am inclined to believe that there is a difference of nearly one hundred per cent, in favor of the improvement of such schools as have been properly visited and encouraged. Thou sayest, " "With regard to the question whether the Bible, and particularly the New Testament, MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 293 should be more generally introduced into our schools, to be there read and studied, there can be no doubt, for we find that when the seeds of religion and vir- tue are' sown early in the infant mind, they will gen- erally influence, in a great degree, the future life and character of the individual." Every sensible, reflecting Christian, will certainly respond to this sentiment; why not, then, take effi- cient measures to remedy an evil so generally known, as the extensive absence of the Holy Scriptures in these schools ? It seems to me the evil is too great to be left to chance, or to individual exertion, for cor- rection ; the united efforts of enlightened citizens would no doubt be successful. The efforts of the American Bible Society have been productive of much good, but there remains many prejudices to overcome in the Bible'cause, in order to more fully disseminate the benign doctrines of Christianity, on which the perpetuity of our ex- cellent free government greatly depends. I am no politician, but I feel a deep interest for the increase of that kind of virtue which will perpetuate those privileges and blessings that our fathers have left us in possession of. A wise man remarked, that " schools were the thermometers of society." Are not most of the evils prevalent in our beloved country traceable to defec- tive education? May we not derive some instruction from the suc- cess of the free schools for poor children, who may be supposed to embrace those who generally are neg- lected at home, and exposed to the bad example of 294 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. their parents ? Yet De Witt Clinton and others have told us, that it is very rare that one of these scholars have been convicted of crime ; on the other hand, it is well known that many of them have become pi- ous and worthy members of society. I have, for a number of years, lamented in believ- ing that our district schools were not answering the expectation of their benevolent patrons ; and I have believed that associated efforts, somewhat on the plan suggested, would promise much usefulness, and be likely to promote the noble cause of education, which has such strong claims on every Christian philanthro- pist and statesman. Thine, affectionately, Joseph Tallcot. From J. Orville Taylor to Joseph Tallcot. Albany, Feb. 3, 1836. Dear Friend, Joseph Tallcot : I have just re- returned from a visit to some of the southern states. My publisher handed me your letter, which I wish to answer immediately. I am pleased with your views on religious education. It will do no good to be an intelligent people, unless we, at the same time, are a religious people. Man has a heart, as well as a head. Our schools now neglect the cultivation of the moral feelings. You truly say, " Our common schools present a large field, with but few laborers." I will send you ten copies. I hope the paper will MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 295 be such that you will feel justified in extending the circulation still farther. Accept of my thanks for the interest you have ta- ken in the great cause. The work will, from present appearances, have a great circulation. Tours, truly, J. Orvtlle Taylor. To the Legislature of the State of New York, now in session : The memorial and petition of Joseph Tallcot, of Skaneateles, Onondaga County, respectfully showeth : That your petitioner has for several years observed, with much concern, the declining state of our district schools, and the general absence of adequate means for promoting, in the rising generation, that Christian piety, and those Christian morals, which are indis- pensable to the existence of our excellent free gov- ernment. All Christendom has become interested in bringing the young of the Heathen nations under the influ- ence of the Holy Scriptures. Will the enlightened state of New York do right to neglect so favorable an opportunity as the schools, immediRtely under its influence, afford for extending this blessing to our own children? I wish to invite your attention to the report of the Superintendent of our district schools the present year. By this document it appears, that something like half a million of our children are not instructed in their schools in the New Testament. Some of 296 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. them may have the benefit of parental and Sabbath school instruction, but a large portion do not ; and, surely, no sensible Christian could reasonably object to making our schools nurseries of Christian morals, by the redeeming influence of the Holy Scriptures. As we are professedly a Christian nation, composed of different denominations, but agreeing in many of the fundamental doctrines of the Christian religion, it is essential that the leading members of each should cooperate in sustaining our general system of educa- tion, free from sectarian peculiarities, in such a man- ner as to secure those Christian principles and Chris- tian morals without which our free government, and its subordinate institutions, will inevitably go to decay. Your petitioner, therefore, proposes for your con- sideration, that the Superintendent be disengaged from all other public services, and that he devote his whole attention to the schools under his superinten- dence ; and that, in the course of the year, he is to visit each county, inform himself of the general con- dition of the schools, afford such advice and instruc- tion as may be necessary and expedient, and make such report, next year, as may lead to additional measures, adapted more fully to carry into effect the benevolent designs of the state. Your petitioner considers the measure he has sug- gested, not unlike sending one man into an extensive, uncultivated field alone to labor ; he therefore invites your consideration to the propriety of granting the Superintendent funds to such an amount as, in your wisdom, you may think advisable, to enable him to MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 297 remunerate a sufficient number of persons, suitably qualified, to aid liim in his laborious and important charge. Tour petitioner is aware that objections may be made to the expense, but he believes that, in a lite- rary point of view alone, the increase of improve- ment will abundantly compensate ; besides, it would revive a- general interest in schools, and lead to moral and religious improvement. I would take the liberty to refer, in further illus- tration of the benefits of these measures, to the state- ment made in the Common School Assistant. Yery respectfully, &c, Joseph Tallcot. From Joseph Tallcot to Isaac Thome. Seaneateles, 7th Mb. 15, 1836. Respected Friend, Isaac Thorne : We have an account of a few Friends being slaves in Algiers, and that much anxiety prevailed for them, and much la- bor and money was expended in procuring their ran- som. What are we doing for the relief of more than two millions of our fellow creatures in this coun- try, who have long been held in still more abject slavery ? Our Friends in England have long labored with untiring assiduity for the abolition of slavery in the British dominions, and there is reason to believe that they have been very instrumental in obtaining the great object. As the subject has now become a society concern, it will probably be acceptable to thee to know what 298 MEMOIES OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. effect the minute of the Yearly Meeting had on the first Quarterly Meeting where it was read. It was such as induced the meeting to appoint a large com- mittee to consider what is our duty in the case. The committee had a solid and interesting interview, the result of which evidently pointed to petitioning con- gress to abolish slavery and the slave trade in the District of Columbia. It was remarked, that it was possible that we could not get it read, but the old- fashioned Quaker sentiment prevailed, that we ought to do our duty, and leave the event. Moses repeated his remonstrances to Pharoah as often as duty re- quired it, and under discouraging circumstances, and so did our friends across the Atlantic. Is it not quite time that we looked more closely into the subject ? It was satisfactory to Friends here, that the subordinate meetings are left to act. A me- morial from a Quarterly or Monthly Meeting might receive nearly as much attention as from a Yearly, or Meeting for Sufferings. I am informed that Friends in England approved of inferior meetings memoriali- zing parliament. Will any Quarterly Meeting treat the subject with due respect, without following the example of the Yearly Meeting so far as to appoint a committee to " search out the cause they know not," and consider what is our duty ? As Friends have been a slaveholding people, it be- comes us to speak kindly of those who have not yet seen it their duty to liberate their slaves. But would it not be a sin to remain silent ? MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 299 If convenient, I should be glad to have these lines read to some of our Stanford Friends. Some of us on the Canada committee have a pros- pect of visiting the two settlements of colored people in that province, as one part of the concern of the Yearly Meeting, as expressed in their minute, was for the benefit of the free people of color. Anne Mott writes that our dear friend, Caleb Mc- Cumber, had a fainting fit at the Quarterly Meeting, and was helped out ; is partially recovered, but una- ble to get home. My Sarah unites with me in love to thee. Thine, sincerely, Joseph Tallcot. From J. Tallcot to J. J. Thomas. Skaneateles, 9th Mo. 18, 1836. My Deak Feieotd, J. J. Thomas : Should thou find time to fill a sheet in the form of a journal, as a model for First-day schools, I shall not only wish to show it to young people, but have been thinking it would promote my design, should I publish it in my little periodical. I should like to say that it was the per- formance of one of the scholars in our school for Scriptural instruction. Perhaps thou would think best to unite with the young people of your place, in making the journal a part of the exercises in your school. Concise notices of thy own experience of the benefit of home study, schools for Scriptural instruc- tion, reading associations, and keeping a journal, would be desirable. 300 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. Perhaps thou wilt copy a part of the advice of our Yearly Meeting on the subject of slavery, and attach some brief remarks ; memorandums of the visits from traveling Friends, and the nature of their remarks ; also interesting occurrences at meetings, and the wri- ter's occasional reflections on the subject. My principal design is that the attention of our youth should be turned to such reading and studies as are connected with their best interests. For the present, however, a model is wanted, principally for those who are much in the back ground. My interest in home improvement has been much increased during my late journey, on perceiving the scarcity of good schools, and that the youth are la- mentably deficient. Thine, sincerely, Joseph Tallcot. From Austin Steward, a colored man of the Colo- ny ' of Wilbe? force, in Ujjper Canada, to Joseph Tallcot. "Wilberforce, Dec. 2, 1836. Dear Friend : I have just seen a letter from you to Mr. George I. Goodhue, of London, informing him that you had sent on some clothes for our people, and had raised about eighty dollars in cash for us. I am constrained to return you and other Friends our sincere and humble thanks, for your disinterested benevolence on behalf of our people of the colony ; and hope you and others will not lose your reward in so good a cause. 3IEM0IES OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 301 The boxes containing the clothing have not arrived yet, and we fear may be detained at Buffalo all win- ter, as navigation is over for the season. If they should not come this winter, I think that our poor people must suffer considerable for the want of them. I think that George I. Goodhue & Co. is a good and safe house to forward to whatever you may see fit to send for the colony. We are making our arrangements for a school, so that we can get the liberal donation from you. We are much obliged to you for those valuable tracts that you sent us. The colonists are generally well, and they all send their love to you. I remain yours, &c, Austin Stewakd. Joseph Tallcot to J. J. Thomas. Skaneateles, 1st Mo. 20, 1837. My Deak Fkiend : I was pleased with thy essays, and intended to insert some or all of them in my next tract. But since our Quarterly Meeting, I have con- cluded to insert such matter as will be adapted to en- courage Friends to unite together in pleading for the poor slaves. Our essay was read in the Quarterly Meeting, and made an encouraging impression, and was referred back to the committee, where it will probably be im- proved and read again, next Quarter. Our friends, to a man, are convinced of the sin of slavery, but for want of information, many lack suf- 302 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. ficient sympathy to induce them to act; others fear that memorializing congress will belike casting pearls before swine. Others, again, are afraid to move for- ward, because of the prevailing excitement. There is another class, who say that Friends, in uniting with others, shut tip the way for their acting by them- selves as a body. If it would be agreeable to thee to fill a sheet with information, and very kind arguments and persuasion, adapted to remove these objections, and unite Friends, and send it by mail or otherwise, as soon as is conve- nient, it would be very acceptable to me. Thou knowest that Friends and others early united with Thomas Clarkson in diffusing information ; also, that Friends as a body repeatedly memorialized par- liament, firstly to abolish the slave trade, and then slavery also ; and that their efforts were useful. Thou hast doubtless been informed that Friends in this country have taken a similar course, and have been more or less instrumental in putting an end to slavery in several states. Clarkson says that Friends and others, to the num- ber of three thousand, signed a memorial to the legis- lature of East and "West Jersey, on behalf of the slaves ; and about the same time James Pemberton and other Friends united with Dr. Eush and others, not of our society, in an association for the help of the people of color. Both these measures, as stated by Clarkson, were in the year 1774. There has long been an abolition society in the city of New York, for protecting the people of color, and ME1I0IES OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 303 many worthy Friends have been active members of it. It is well understood that Friends have acted from conscientious motives in clearing themselves from holding slaves, and that, in their memorials to legisla- tive bodies, they have addressed them in a mild, kind, inoffensive manner. Their continued petitions will, of course, make a stronger impression than other peo- ple ; and should this prove like pearls before swine to some obdurate minds, it may tend to invigorate others. Do our friends generally know the extent, and in- creasing horrors of the domestic slave trade, and that many vessels are regularly freighted with victims for the cruelties of the south? But we must sympathize with even the slavehold- ers. Worthy Friends have been slaveholders, and many others who now hold them are pious people. They have received their slaves by inheritance, and, in many instances, they constitute the most of their property. As a nation, and as individuals, are we not involved more or less in the iniquity? Why not, then, solicit congress to apply our surplus revenue in remunera- ting slaveholders, commencing in the District of Co- lumbia ? Are not efforts to be made toward prepar- ing the public mind for such a measure, and would there not be a justice in it? It may be useful to invite the attention of Friends to consider the sorrowful effects which slavey produ- ces on slaveholders and their children. Would it not be an object, independent of the slave, worthy 304: MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. of the indefatigable labor of every philanthropist, to put an end to a system which, in many ways, seems to demoralize, and produce unhappiness among slave- holders ? Essays, free from censorious remarks, in relation to the apathy of Friends, or of severe censure of the slaveholders, will correspond with my views and feelings. To awaken their sympathies, and convince them that the present is a favorable time for Friends to unite in exerting all the influence they have, on behalf of suffering humanity, is what I wish. To purchase a slave, seems, at first view, like ac- knowledging the right of property in a fellow creature. This has, however, been practiced by Friends, for the benevolent object of letting the oppressed go free. One of the designs of Lindley Murray's fund is for this purpose. In framing an essay, I wish thy views may not be trammeled with any of my remarks or suggestions, but thou art at liberty to adopt any of them, if agree- able to thee. Thine, sincerely, Joseph Tallcot. The following letter from Joseph Tallcot to Isaac Thorne, is without date, and a part of it lost ; it is supposed to have been written in 1837 : " Previous to last winter, Friends of our Quarter sent the people of color at "Wilberforce, in Canada, a considerable amount in money and clothing. They have also been doing something in our parts for the MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TAELCOT. 305 colored schools there, and many of my little publica- tions have been furnished, both here and in Canada. " There seems an ardent engagement amongst this poor, despised, down-trodden people, to improve them- selves and one another in learning, so as to read the Bible, and to promote good morals amongst them. " Does not their situation claim the sympathy of Friends, and would not kind Friends in Dutchess county delight in promoting their welfare, by help- ing them to continue their schools? They are poor, having, most of them, escaped from oppression, with only their naked hands, yet they are trying io do what they can. "At Toronto, the most numerous settlement in the province, we were informed that they early formed a charitable society amongst themselves, to relieve the needy of their own color, and it is reported that their morals and industry are quite equal to the white people. "Should you be inclined to make a contribution, and inform us of the amount, the money can be ad- vanced from here until you should have a chance to send it. "I still employ some of the hours of advanced life in publishing little books for small children. My motto is, 'just as the twig is bent the tree's inclined.' Although this truth is common-place, and generally assented to, yet I have been affected in perceiving that Friends are not as careful as they should be, es- pecially in the selection of books for small children. "I have been informed that our ancient and wor- thy friend, Moses Brown, w T as unusually careful on 306 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. this account. He even cut out or obliterated in a new Almanac whatever was objectionable. "I intend to send thee a few copies of the last number of the Child's Companion, for thee to hand out to little readers, when thou art abroad. "It has been somewhat animating to hear of the arrival of several worthy and able ministers of the gospel in our land. Their labors of love, in this low time, will be very seasonable, and it is to be hoped useful ; and I have been thinking it will serve as an encouragement to distant Friends to get out to our next Yearly Meeting. " In cities, Friends do much for the general good. In Philadelphia, I think they have fourteen benevo- lent associations ; they are much engaged for impro- ving the people of color. It seems to me that it would be useful to us in the country to be more active in doing good. The Great Pattern spent much of his time in going about doing good to the bodies and the minds of the people. Job sought out the cause he knew not. With cordial love, myself, wife, and daughters bid thee, " Affectionately, farewell. "Joseph Tallcot." From Joseph Tallcot to Martin Van Buren. Seaneateles, 3d Mo. 17, 1837. To the President of the United States of Amer- ica — Respected Friend : Permit an old man to ad- dress thee on thy accession to the highest office in this great, enlightened, Christian nation, and to ex- MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 307 press a sincere desire that it may prove to the honor of God, to the advancement of the happiness of every class of the people, and to thy own felicity during time and eternity. My principal object in venturing to address thee at this time, was a desire to direct thy attention to the concerns of our government with the Indian tribes. However benevolent the design of government in embodying the Indians beyond the Mississippi, it has not, in all respects, been accomplished with that kindness and fairness that might have been hoped for. The violation of our solemn treaties with them, the unsnstained but just decision of the supreme court of the United States in their favor, as well as some other considerations, have filled the hearts of many with deep regrets. My feelings have lately been in- terested on hearing that a large body of these people, under unfavorable circumstances, were at the com- mencement of winter moved to the far west, where their sufferings -will probably be very severe, unless extraordinary care and relief is afforded them. These considerations, and sympathy for their suf- ferings, have filled my mind with mournful solicitude, and' impelled me, although an obscure, retiring indi- vidual, to address the president of the nation. Allow me earnestly to solicit thy kind, protecting care toward these helpless and fast declining people, that their pressing wants may be supplied, and the claims of justice and humanity extended to them. I do not mean to question the faithfulness of agents. 308 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. bat fear the work may be too heavy for them, and the present means under their control inadequate. Our coffers are overflowing, and we are possessing the good land of their fathers ; to appropriate a need- ful portion of it to the relief of these poor people, will not only be an act of justice, but I believe will be acceptable to God, and all good men. These people have looked up to former presidents for fatherly care and protection, and at no time have they more stood in need of it than at the present time. The kindness and justice of some former administra- tions have done honor to our nation, and no doubt preserved us from some Indian wars. Within a few days I have learned that a memorial was presented to congress, too late for action, from the Cherokee nation, praying for a redress of their wrongs. I cherish the hope that our government will listen favorably, and inquire carefully and thor- oughly into their complaints, and amply redress their grievances. If, on a candid investigation, it should appear that justice and humanity have been observed, and their complaints unfounded, the knowledge of it would af- ford. relief to the righteous in our nation, and remove a stigma now resting upon the character of our gov- ernment. To secure the friendship of the collected tribes of the Indians at the west, is worthy of consideration. I believe kindness and justice in dealing with them have never failed to render them harmless and friendly. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 309 The justice and morality of a government has, amongst other important bearings, a powerful effect on its subjects individually. Thy best endeavors to promote a righteous issue regarding the complaints of these poor Indians, will not only excite the gratitude of many people, but doubtless secure an approving conscience, which is of great worth. It will also manifest a laudable in- terest in the justice and morality of our beloved coun- try, and, under a benign Providence, may be favored to add another proof of the truth of that declaration, " that it is righteousness which exalteth a nation." Thine, sincerely, Joseph Tallcot. To William H. Seward. Skaneateles, ll^A Mo. 21, 1838. Respected Fkiend : In behalf of the Skaneateles Education Society, I congratulate the governor elect on his election to the highest office in the state of New York ; and we sincerely hope it will be the means of advancing the best interests of the people, and also promote thy own happiness. "We solicit thy countenance toward the benevolent design of our association. A former governor of this state had much influence in promoting the grand de- sign of navigation between our eastern and western waters ; governors now may do much in promoting a still greater work — the moral and literary training of the rising generation, on which depends the very existence of our excellent free government. 310 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. A few of the citizens of this place, in common with, the friends of education elsewhere, having much re- gretted the low and declining condition of our com- mon schools, where the great body of the young re- ceive their training, and believing that personal ser- vice, as well as funds, is indispensable, have embod- ied themselves into an association, and have, during the past season, been acting in conformity with the accompanying constitution, now enclosed for thy pe- rusal. This association find such a variety of benefits growing out of their labors, that they are encouraged in the good work, and solicitous that the inhabitants of other places may be induced to unite together in promoting the same object among themselves. If thirty or forty of the most competent citizens of each town were united in their efforts, and devoted to monthly visiting every school, by a portion of their number ; imparting advice and encouragement to teachers and children ; exerting their influence in carrying out the benevolent designs of the state, — we might have reason to hojje that great improvement in those schools would be the consequence. Parents, teachers, and pupils would be stimulated and increasingly interested. This has been the case in our experience, and resulted in much good ; which, among many other things, is manifested in the desire of the employers to procure the best kind of school books, and other valuable works in greater abundance. Our association have made a liberal contribution for furnishing new, approved elementary MEMOIES OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 311 works to each school, to be used as may be conven- ient in forming classes. It has been proposed that traveling agents should be employed to visit all the schools ; this would be useful, but perhaps not so well adapted to promote a general interest as voluntary service. The New York primary schools are perhaps supe- rior to most, if not all, others in our state. One of the managers of these schools writes me, that, when in England, he visited some of the most famed pri- mary schools, and saw none to exceed those of New York, which are visited weekly by the managers. Some twenty years ago, DeWitt Clinton, in one of his messages, dwelt largely and excellently on the subject of education, as connected with the common schools under the patronage of the state, especially as regards moral training ; and the New York free schools were mentioned by him as showing the admi- rable effects of religious and moral training of the children, who mostly were those under very unfavor- able circumstances, as to the example of parents ; yet such had been the redeeming influence of these schools, that amongst the thousands educated in them, very few had ever been arraigned at the bar as criminals. The views of Clinton in relation to the connection of religious and moral with literary instruction, ap- pear to correspond with those embraced in Barnard's admirable report, in answer to a petition to our le- gislature, last winter, for a law to prohibit the Scrip- tures being used in schools. The Skaneateles Education Society have conceived 312 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. it incumbent on them not to overlook the sentiment and wishes of the legislature, in regard to the moral culture in the schools under their patronage, and the use of the Scriptures in them as an auxiliary to that object ; but they are induced to believe, that selec- tions from the Old and New Testaments, of such por- tions as would be best adapted to the use of schools, would be preferable to the Bible at large. They have, therefore, approved a work entitled, " Scripture Lessons," which has been stereotyped for the New York free school trustees. It is a popular work, be- ing extensively in use in schools in England, Greece, Italy, France, Germany, Spain, and .Russia, having been printed in their respective languages. As it is an acknowledged opinion, that a free, Christian government, like ours, cannot be sustained without the prevalence of virtue and Christian mor- als, it is reasonable that those at the head of govern- ment should use their influence in sustaining the foundation on which all our institutions, both civil and religious, are based. As a general interest is increasing through the state in regard to elevating the character of our common schools, various plans for improvement will doubtless be introduced. It has been suggested, that a model school in each town, where pupils might be perfected in their studies, and young teachers in the art of teaching, would be an object worthy of the thought and attention of the friends of education. I will close by saying, that the principal object of this communication was to call thy attention to the great subject of education, with the hope that thy MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 313 first message would embrace some of these benevo- lent views, which accord very nearly with the senti- ments contained in Barnard's report, relative to moral and religious as well as literary education, and thus afford gratification and encouragement to many who feel a deep interest in the welfare and prosperity of our beloved country. I am, with affectionate regard, thy sincere friend, Joseph Tallcot. From Governor Seward to Joseph Tallcot Auburn, Dec. 12th, 1838. Dear Sir : I have received your kind letter of the 21st of November, and am obliged to you for the many valuable suggestions it contains. The mode of education is yet susceptible of great improvement, and I am pleased that the citizens of Skaneateles have manifested such commendable in- terest on this subject. Tour suggestions will receive the consideration which their importance so greatly demands. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, W. H. Seward. From Joseph Tallcot to John O. Spencer. Seaneateles, 7th Mo. 4, 1839. Respected Friend, John C. Spencer : The low condition of our primary schools, as regards moral as well as intellectual instruction, has for some time past, in common with citizens of other sections of the 314 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. state, attracted the attention of a portion of the in- habitants of this place, and led to the formation of the "Skanetateles Education Society." After read- ing the report of a committee of the legislature of 1837-8, in answer to a petition for a law to prohibit the use of the Bible in our common schools, we were encouraged to form this society, with the view of more fully carrying into effect the benevolent designs of the state. During the past year, the society has been acting in conformity with the constitution now enclosed to thee, with encouraging results, though not with com- plete success in regard to the use of the Scriptures. In order to promote this object, a considerable num- ber of copies of Scripture Lessons have been offered gratuitously to the schools, and in a few instances they have been accepted, but in some districts there is a decided opposition. It is cause of deep regret that so much apathy and opposition prevail. We are, however, cheered in perceiving that some citizens of high standing, in various places, have of late manifested increasing at- tention to the subject; amongst the rest, the senti- ments of our late Superintendent, in his last report, are peculiarly gratifying. We do not doubt that, as the head of the school department of the state, thou wilt be quite disposed to carry out the views of the legislature and the late Superintendent, as regards the moral culture of the scholars, by means of the Holy Scriptures. It might be troublesome and embarrassing for the Superintendent to examine and recommend ordinary MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT, 315 school books ; not so as regards the Bible, the charter of our valuable privileges. Should a volume be selected from the Bible for the use of schools, embracing such parts as are the best adapted to entertain and instruct the young, and be recommended by high authority, accompanied with adequate exertions to introduce the work, it would likely be a national benefit. It is hoped that our plan will meet thy approba- tion and encouragement. I had an early acquaintance with thy worthy fa- ther, and have had a correspondence with him in re- lation to the subject of this letter. As a mark of my respect and continued regard, I should like to have this and the accompanying document shown to him. I am, with sincere respect, thy assured friend, Joseph Tallcot. From John C. Spencer. Albany, August 19th, 1839. Respected Friend, Joseph Tallcot : I received your interesting letter of the 4th ult., and delayed an answer to it on account of the pressure of official business that admitted of no delay, and also in the hope of giving you some satisfactory information on some points in your letter. I agree with you on the propriety of having a se- lection from the Old and New Testaments for the use of schools, and arrangements have been made to have a good and cheap edition of Sampson's Beauties of the Bible printed. One copy will be given gratui- 316 MEMOIKS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. tously to every school district in the state that pur- chases a library ; in this way we hope it may become known and introduced into the schools. I am about to appoint (under a law of last winter, of which I send you a copy in pamphlet in circular issued by me) visitors of common schools for each county in the state, consisting of at least two in each town. It is my hope and purpose to make their boards organize as county societies, and to have them make thorough examination of the schools, and full reports to me. I trust, also, they may be induced to send delegates to a state society, to assemble here in the winter. I shall take the liberty of appointing you a visitor for Onondaga county. Your Skaneate- las society will fall in exactly with my plans, of hav- ing town societies auxiliary to the county boards. Lindley Murray's book on the Power of Eeligion, I approve, but cannot recommend it to be placed in the district libraries. It is rather a school book than for general circulation. Your friend, truly, J. C. Spencee. From Joseph Tallcot Isaac Collins. Ledyaed, 10th Mo. 8, 1839. My Deae Friend, Isaac Collins: We have just removed to the neighborhood where we first settled in Cayuga county, about thirty-two years ago. Our children have left and are leaving Skaneateles, and we being located twenty miles from our Monthly Meeting, and connections here, have moved here to MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 31 T close onr days. Being yet in the bustle, can only- spare time to write a few lines by Friend Harker. Since I was at thy house, I have devoted much of my leisure time in framing and publishing little works for children, much to my own relief and satis- faction ; and have received many assurances of their having been acceptable, especially in the west, where they have been instrumental in starting a number of First-day schools. I am now remote from any printing office, and shall discontinue my editorial labors, and shall shortly mail the last number of the Child's Companion ; and if I do not forget, will also send thee a little package for colored children. For more than twenty years I have been seriously thoughtful of the probable consequences of excluding the Holy Scriptures from our common schools, and have bestowed much time and labor in endeavoring to counteract that unfortunate movement, which, I have no doubt, has been one means of the unparal- leled spread of infidelity in our country." Two years ago an association was formed at Skan- eateles, principally for the purpose of visiting the nine- teen schools in town, and endeavoring to promote the best interests of the children. They encouraged the practice of all the pupils reading, at least once in the day, in the Scriptures ; the teachers reading a por- tion to the scholars daily, and devoting an hour, every Second-day morning, to hearing the pupils re- cite Scripture they had committed to memory the- preceding day. Should this, or a similar plan, be introduced and 318 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. encouraged by the pious in every neighborhood, there is much reason to hope that it would be a means of much good to the rising generation. I think I have seen a notice of a general conven- tion to be held in Philadelphia, on the subject of ed- ucation. I hope the moral and religious culture of children will form a prominent subject of discussion. Should this be the ease, I should be pleased with the details. My wife unites with me in expressions of our re- membrance and continued love for thee and thy dear Rebecca. Joseph Tallcot. From Joseph Tallcot to his Grandsons. At Home, 2d Mo. 27, 1840. My Dear Grandchildren, Geo. and R. D. Tallcot : You have of late been often in my affectionate re- membrance, with longing desires that you may re- member your Creator in the days of your youth, and, above all things, be engaged to do that which is right in his sight. This morning, on reading the 22d, 23d, and 24th chapters of Genesis, my mind was contrited under the consideration of the faithfulness of Abraham, and the consequent blessings on his posterity. Your an- cestors have been of the number who have endeav- ored to serve the Lord in their day and generation. Your dear mother has doubtless made you acquainted with the biography of her grandmother and her father. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 319 My grandparents and my parents were worthy Friends, and as you serve the God of your fathers, blessings will descend upon you, and you will not only be respectable and honorable in your day and generation, but will finally be gathered into tha&rest prepared for the righteous, to mingle in the exalted society of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph, and with your worthy ancestors who have gone before you. " Time how short, Eternity how long ! " Your grandmother unites with me in continued af- fection to you and Mary Jane. We hope she will be a great comfort to her dear mother, by her cheer- ful conformity to her wishes. This makes children respectable in the world, and it is pleasing in the Divine sight. The Bible says, " Children, obey your parents in the Lord." Farewell, dear children. From your affectionate grandfather, Joseph Tallcot. Tallcot to his son B. Sherwood's Corners, 3d Mb., 1840. My Dear Son : As thou hast been much in my mind of late, I have at length seated myself, in order to manifest my affectionate remembrance of thee. "We frequently converse about thee and thy family, with feelings of affectionate interest. "What an unstable scene is our pilgrimage through life, which is sometimes termed a vale of tears. But what a consolation to repose on the gracious promise, 320 MEMOIKS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. that "all things shall work for good to those who love the Lord." This love is often diminished in sea- sons of prosperity, and sometimes increased in sea- sons of adversity. May the trials and adversities of time tend to increase that love, which is enduring and perpetual, in all our hearts. This will indeed be a rich exchange. For although natural affection is a great blessing, in passing through this checkered scene, yet how transient in comparison to that ex- alted affection, which will endure through eternity ! When reviewing a long life, how like a hand's breadth it appears. Yes ; and the pleasures of life dwindle into insignificance. " The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." This fear being accom- panied with that love which is man's highest happi- ness, may truly be denominated the greatest and most precious treasure ; the pearl of great price, the good part that shall never be taken away. I trust that these considerations occupy a portion of thy thoughts, and call forth thy frequent prayers for thy own growth and establishment in the ever blessed truth. Thy father must soon leave this state of mutability ; may he leave a son to occupy his place, in endeavoring to sustain an humble but im- portant society. Thy mother and sister unite with me in love to thee. Thy affectionate father, Joseph Tallcot. MEHOIKS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 321 From Joseph Tallcot to William Bassett. Sherwood's Corners, 3d Mo. 31, 1840. My Dear Friend : I have often thought of the in- teresting correspondence between us, respecting First- day schools, and have had it on my mind to condole with thee in regard to the loss which I conceive the children and youth in your quarter have sustained in their discontinuance. Soon after the separation in our society, it was proved that Friends were remarkably united in sen- timent in relation to the essential doctrines and testi- monies of the society. Since that period, however, a difference of opinion in minor points has, I think, been increasingly prevalent. Some have urged still- ness and quietude, and some, action. Their differ- ent reasonings have been applied to the general tem- perance reform, to Bible societies, to First-day schools, and to anti-slavery operations, &c. In the days of the apostles, Christians were en- dowed with different gifts by the same spirit ; and so it is now, and it may be right for Friends, as individ- uals, to take their several portions of labor in the above subjects ; at the same time encouraging and admonishing each other to faithfulness and circum- spection, none saying to others, " we have no need of you." Some of us have had a special regard to the exam- ple of him who went about doing good ; also to the practice of our early Friends, who were remarkably active in good works. It is incumbent on us all to bear in mind the caution — " Let not him that eateth 322 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. despise him that eateth not. And let not him who eateth not, judge him that eateth." The great object of life is to occupy our own tal- ents in performing our several and various duties. As this is done in a right manner, one talent after another is acquired ; spiritual talents, or gifts of hu- mility, love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, * goodness, faith, and meekness. The right perform- ance of our duties promotes our own growth in good, and our labors are made beneficial to others. After trying to do the best we can, some of us know how many conflicts it costs us to bear with meekness the efforts and designs of opposers, so as not to dissipate our stock of love for them. Should we be ever so useful to others, and at the same time by inattention diminish our own stock of good, should we not resemble one who lamented he had not kept his own vineyard? While I have apprehended that not only individu- als, but our religious society in America, have been too backward in relation to some of the benevolent objects of the day, yet I have remembered the mel- anchoty cases of those who have attempted to outrun the society ; and at times have entertained a jeal- ousy over myself, in this respect, and a care not to indulge a censorious spirit, or any other improper feeling, that would be likely to weaken my attach- ment to the society of which I am a member. I have cause, therefore, for thankfulness for large portions of that kind of baptism which caused Job to abhor himself, and repent in dust and ashes. I can- not but esteem these humiliating views of my own MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 323 deformity as one great means of my having in a good degree been preserved. - Having myself experienced many trials, exercises, and besetments, I feel an affectionate solicitude for my younger friends, who, desirous of occupying their talents, are taking an active part in promoting be- nevolent objects. Oh, how easy it is for too much creaturely will to mingle in our efforts ! It requires humiliation and watchfulness to do a right thing in a right spirit, especially in the ardent season of youth. How natural and easy it is to indulge a censorious spirit against some flagrant evil-doers ; how impor- tant, and how essential that Christians, both young and old, should remember and imitate Him, who prayed for the worst of sinners. This prayerful state would be a defense against the divider of the breth- ren, who, in this our day, has made lamentable in- roads on our poor society, and is still further disposed to sift us as wheat. Oh, how safe, how wise it will be for us to watch and pray that we enter not into temptation. I have attended a number of meetings for benevo- lent purposes, composed in part of the members of our society, with others, and have heard important truths declared on subjects connected with the gen- eral good, which I have felt more disposition to en- courage than otherwise ; yet I have not expected to find in them that degree of meekness and gentleness that is the ornament and life of Christianity. I am fully persuaded that it is very incumbent on those of us who take an active part in the associations of the 324 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. day, to be especially careful to keep under the influ- ence of the meek, humble and gentle spirit in which true Quakerism thrives, and strengthens the bands of Christian fellowship. In relation to First-day schools, it has afforded me much satisfaction to learn that they have been exten- sively in operation in the Yearly Meeting of Indiana ; and that, at its last session, a valuable epistle of ad- vice to its members was issued on the subject of edu- cation, in which such schools are recommended. From thy sincere friend, Joseph Tallcot. From Joseph Tallcot to his son R. Sherwood's Corners, 9th Mb. 21, 1841. My Dear Son : It is very humiliating to perceive how fast I am declining. It is with labor and diffi- culty that I can write legibly, owing to the tremors of age, and my memory is also failing. My race will soon be run ; but while life and sense remain, a pa- rent retains an interest in his children. It was cheering to learn that thy business this year will probably be satisfactory and profitable. It has, for several days, been in my heart to remind thee to use all diligence to keep thy covenants with thy God. Sad experience proves the frequent failure of poor, frail man in this respect. But on this depends eter- nal happiness, while the good things of time are but as a bubble on the water. "When we heard of the burning of the steamboat Erie, we feared that our dear son was on board ; thou MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 325 canst not imagine our feelings until thy letter brought us relief. Oh, may we be thankful for our favors and bless- ings, and keep on safe ground, by dwelling constantly in a state of watchfulness and prayer, abounding in charity and love, considering our own personal frail- ties. My faith at times is very faint and feeble, and I am left to say, like the poor publican, " Lord be merciful to me a sinner." May the good Comforter be with my dear son, and guide him in the path of safety. From thy affectionate, aged father, Joseph Tallcot. From Joseph Tallcot to Pheoe Field. Dear Sister Phebe : In former years I corres- ponded frequently with thee, and I felt willing to renew it in a few lines, although my trembling hand must be an apology for not writing much, or fre- quently, and my leanness and poverty of spirit will disqualify me from saying much to interest or edify thee. I have no recollection of willfully doing any im- moral act, yet the language of David is often pre- sented to my mind, and I sometimes feel to adopt it as applicable to my feelings : " My sin is ever be- fore me ; my transgressions are more than the hairs of my head ; according to thy tender mercies blot out my trangressions." How humiliating, that after our sins are repented 6Z0 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. of, and apparently blotted out, they rise up to re- membrance, to be repented of again and again. But my exercises have not been entirely confined to myself, but have been extended in sympathy toward young parents ; and I have been preparing some les- sons for them to read and talk over to their children, while young and in a state of innogency, and while there is no prejudice or opposition in their minds against the truths of the Bible, or the visitations of the Holy Spirit. It is increasingly my impression, that a great loss is sustained by delaying religious instruction until the most favorable season passes over. I want our ministers, in a special manner, to press this sentiment on all our young parents, and encourage them not to delay until they have made greater advances them- selves in religion, before they commence the work of teaching their children in the way they should walk. It may be that the first step in their religious pro- gress may consist in the performance of this duty to their children, in teaching them to fear and love God. Many have been the instances of little children lov- ing their heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, in an eminent degree, affording great consolation to parents when they have been taken away by death ; and when such survive to mature age, and become men and women, they are generally apt to manifest the benefits of their early impressions, and should they fall into transgression, the memory of them may recall them to repentance. In the course of a few weeks I expect my Lessons for Young Parents from the press, a few of which I JIEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 327 should like to send thee and to Phebe G. Underbill, for you to hand out where they will be acceptable and useful, with a hope that you will encourage the recipients to use the little work as designed. Thyself and Deborah will be welcome visitors at our house, and in the mean time a letter from thee would be very acceptable. Our love is very affec- tionately to thee and thy children. Joseph Tallcot. Joseph Tallcot to Isaac Thome. Sherwood's Corners, 2d Mo. 8,1842. My Dear Friend : To fill up some of the leisure hours of old age, I have been looking over letters of friendship from my dear friends of ancient date, amongst whom have been thyself, Tripp Mosher, James Mott, John Murray, Jun., Abraham I. Under- bill, Samuel Parsons, and others ; nearly all now gone from works to rewards. Although something of a gloomy cast has accompanied the employment, yet, on the whole, it has rather stimulated my feel- ings of affection toward the few of my early friends who remain, and thyself in particular ; with tender regard and sympathy for thee in thy lonely condition, which has induced me to take the pen in my trem- bling hand, in order to continue our correspondence, which I hope will not cease as long as we are capa- ble of writing. The last letter I had from Caleb McC umber, was written with such a trembling hand, that I expect it will remain ever to be his last ; yet I have been 328 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. thinking whether I ought not to continue to write to him as long as able to do so, and this is a hint for thee, should I outlive ability to write. I have been trying of late to count over and trace the posterity of our good old Friends, who once com- posed the Quarterly Meeting at IsTine Partners, and can find but a small portion of them now members of our society. This painful result I conceive was not altogether for want of religious concern in parents, but proba- bly, in a considerable degree, for want of proper knowledge and skill. I judge from my own experi- ence, and view my own deficiency so distinctly, in this respect, that I have felt an anxious solicitude that young parents of the present day may learn, from the past, better methods of training their chil- dren ; and although it has been my lot to sit much of the time in a low place, yet I have ventured to prepare some lessons, designed for young parents, to aid in the instruction of their children. I would not advise them to wait until they are full- grown Christians, before they commence the good work of pious instruction ; devoting themselves thereto in the best manner they can, which I believe will be a good beginning in endeavoring to do the will of God. If I send thee some of my tracts, I hope thou wilt so far approve of them as to distribute them in young families of Friends, or others, where they will be ac- ceptable ; and add thy own encouragement to early moral and religious training of the young children. We are gratified in having two of our grandchil- MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 329 dren at our old school at Nine Partners, and cheered by receiving good letters from them. As the religious improvement of the rising genera- tion was our principal inducement in setting up this boarding-school, I trust that object will be kept stead- ily in view. The manner of teaching literature has been materially improved of latter time, as has also the instruction of children in morality, religion, and other duties of life ; yet I conceive that when the subject gets sufficiently hold of the minds of Friends, much further advances will be made. Did all parents faithfully and thoroughly instruct their children at home in the Scriptures, First-day schools for that purpose would not be so essential ; but as this is not the case with us, it would be very desirable if faithful Friends would invite all the chil- dren in his or her neighborhood, to spend an hour on First-day afternoons, in reading the Scriptures and pious biography, and reciting such portions as have been committed to memory. I have no doubt that such engagements, properly conducted, would greatly promote the best interests of the rising generation of our own soeiety and others, and with care in mingling in this way, would be no more exposing to our children than attending our meetings for worship. It may be well for us not to be so fearful of following the practices of other socie- ties, as to prevent our own improvement. But small additions seem, of latter times, to be made to our poor society by convineement. I have faith, however, that it will be sustained ; but it must be principally by educated members, and I appre- 330 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. bend the number will be much in proportion to the religious care and instruction given to the rising gen- eration. A clergyman said to me, that he had observed a peculiar looseness on First-days in the neighborhoods of Friends. Should we not seriously consider what can be done to remedy this? Christians have al- ways, like their Master, been active in doing good. Were we to bestow as much expense in improv- ing the rising generation in our neighborhoods as other societies pay to their priests, it would be a bless- ing to the children, and much more likely to promote our own spiritual growth, than hoarding up money for them. There is much complaint in our society of low- times. I have no doubt that more activity in our members, both old and young, in embracing oppor- tunities of doing good, would brighten our faith, and be a means of making our meetings more lively and edifying. When I commenced this letter, I had no idea of dwelling so much on the subject of education ; but I have simply penned the current of thought which has flowed in my mind, and I leave thee at liberty to im- part my views to others at thy discretion. In one of thy letters was mentioned thy sympathy toward the better portion of the rulers of our nation. Although in mercy we are measurably free from the exposing and perplexing charge of government af- fairs, yet I believe it right to feel and manifest an in- terest in the welfare of the nation; and to use that influence in promoting righteous and just measure-. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 331 The American Peace Society, in their periodical, in- vite the friends of peace to unite in petitions to con- gress in favor of submitting national disputes to peaceful arbitration. Friends here, I believe, have seven petitions in circulation, in various parts of our Quarterly Meeting, which are signed by Friends and others ; and probably there are as many more at Farmiugton. We have read an address from the last Quarterly Meeting at Farmington to its members, exhorting them to abstain from the use of the produce of persons held in slavery. "We understand that this subject, and that of also abstaining from all intoxicating drinks, will be carried up by them to our next Year- ly Meeting, where I hope the propositions will be treated with respect. The abolitionists here are active. Few individual Friends unite in their operations, but most of us sym- pathize with them. The nation will be likely to keep in a broil, until slavery is done away ; and it is to be feared, if not accomplished by moral means, that some awful explosion will settle the important question. My wife and daughter P. unite with me in contin- ued love to thee ; also to thy children, and our grand- children at the school. Joseph Tallcot. 332 MKMOIES OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. From Joseph Tallcoi to his son B. SnEKwooD's Coenees, 10th Mo. 7, 1842. My Deae Son : Parental affection has from time to time urged me to write thee a token of my love and remembrance, but it being laborious for me to write, I have delayed it until this late period. Although I have enjoyed usual health during thy absence, yet my mind has generally been in a state of depression and great poverty. At present I am much refreshed by a visit of a committee of our last Yearly Meeting, appointed to visit the Monthly and Quarterly Meetings ; they are Solomon and Clarissa Griffin, Richard Carpenter, Phila Griffin, Thomas Willis, Joseph Bowne, and Henry Bull. Good came along with them, and they had much salutary labor in our meetings for discipline, and Joseph Bowne in the ministry, at both our meeting houses ; and also at Aurora aud Union Springs, and on his return was at Skaneateles. For this favor we ought to be very thankful. I have often sympathized with thee, greatly desi- ring that thou may be so watchful and prayerful as to experience all things to work together for thy good, and thou be liberated and prepared to succeed those who will shortly be removed from works to re- wards, and made instrumental in sustaining the best system of religion now in existence. May the good Spirit be with thee, and cheer thy anxious moments, is the prayer of Thy aged father, Joseph Tallcot. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 333 From Joseph Tallcot to his son D. caul family, at • Oswego. First-day Afternoon, 3d Mo. IS, 1844. My Dear Children : On this day of the week I am apt to think more of my children than on other days, it being set apart specially for religious im- provement ; and it is a matter of vast importance that it be carefully devoted to that object. It seems like a long time since we have heard from you by letter ; I often visit you mentally, and not only my precious children, but other dear friends, who are yet inhabiting a tabernacle of clay ; and not unfrequently am led to contemplate the happy state of pious Friends who are gathered to their eternal rest. Amongst these are included our worthy ances- tors and connections; and the same love and sweet unity which I once felt for these, seems now to revive afresh. This love, I verily believe, is of a durable character, and will be the unspeakable comfort and joy of those dear ones, who in the morning of life de- voted their hearts to serve the Lord. How cheering at times it is to reflect on heaven and heavenly things. How it animates the poor mind, and stimulates to renewed engagement to use all diligence to make our calling and election sure. May our posterity choose the Lord for their inher- itance, like Mary formerly, who chose that good part which shall never be taken away. They are heirs to the blessed truth ; their lot has fallen in the most favored society, in which are many privileges and advantages to assist them in endeavor- 331 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. ing to secure an eternal inheritance in glory. May they cleave to the religion of their fathers, in which they have been educated, by denying of self and ta- king up the cross, ceasing to do evil, and then learn- ing to do well, with an humble heart ; for the proud the Lord beholdeth afar off, but the humble he teach- eth his ways, and the humble he will exalt. I recollect of having read of a man who lived re- mote from Friends, who was in the regular habit on First-days of sitting down alone to wait upon the Lord ; after a time some of his neighbors, one after another, came and sat with him, and enjoyed satis- faction; from this a meeting was gathered in that neighborhood. As you faithfully keep up your family devotion, in the fear of the Lord, on First-days, I have no doubt that it will prove a blessing to you, and may, in time, be the means of gathering a little meeting. At least, it may be the means of preserving you from descend- ing to mingle in performances in which you have no faith. It requires great attention to the pointings of truth, by Friends living remote, in regard to uniting with other people in doing good, in order that they go far enough, yet not too far. Your dear mother and myself are often engaged in silent prayer for all our posterity, that they may be the saved of the Lord. Tour aged father, Joseph Tallcot. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 335 In the spring of 1S44 Joseph Tallcot, in company with his wife, performed a visit to their friends in ~New York and Pennsylvania. The two following let- ters to his children were written during their absence. Philadelphia, 4zJA Mo. 20, 1844. My Dear Child, Phebe Tallcot : As usual, the Meeting for Ministers and Elders opened on Seventh- day. Sarah Emlin was set at liberty for England, and it was a tender, sympathizing time. Yesterday commenced the Yearly Meeting, and had two long and interesting sittings. The day on which we left home, we had a pleasant ride to Syracuse, and a quiet night at a temperance hotel. Here we fell in company with a school super- intendent from Homer, a very pleasant man ; said he had read a package of my Scripture Lessons, and was pleased with them. He accompanied us to New York, and showed us particular kindness and atten- tion. On Sixth-day morning we took breakfast at I* Shotwell's, and reached Philadelphia and the house of our- dear friend, I. Collins, at a late dinner. ¥e never had a more pleasant journey, or enjoyed our- selves better. Many regrets have been expressed on account of thy not coming with us. A Friend in England wants a full copy of the " Friendly Yisitant ; " please send it to me by Anne Underbill ; also one full copy of the Child's Companion. Our friends here are remarkably kind and atten- tive to us, and we are favored with good health. Adieu, my precious child. Joseph Tallcot. 336 MEM0IES OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. From the same to JR. T. and wife. Pennsylvania, at Geokg-e Spencee's, ) Mh Mo. 25, 1844. f Dear Ciiildeen, R. & M. : I suppose you will be willing to hear from us, and I will endeavor to write a few lines, to let you know of our welfare, and how we are getting along. "We attended meetings in Philadelphia seven days, where we partook of the refreshing labors of our worthy English Friends ; afterward went to Joseph Lloyd's, and stayed three nights, and attended two meetings at "Wilmington, and heard John Pease again, who is an excellent minister. He is now gone to Virginia, to return to our Yearly Meeting. We expect to return to the city ; then call at Burlington on our way to New York and Long Island. I do not recollect 'that we have ever enjoyed our- selves better in any former journey ; during which our minds have often flitted away to salute our pre- cious children and grandchildren, wishing them health and happiness. My feelings have often been contrited in the con- sideration of the various preservations that our R. has experienced. May we never cease to be grateful for these favors, and may he, above all things, fulfill the gracious designs of Providence in thus prolonging his precious life. "We congratulate our dear grandson J. on account of his enjoyment of his beautiful farm ; but he must not set his heart upon it, but fear God, and be faithful in the attendance of meetings twice in the week ; and then I have no doubt a blessing will attend him. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 337 It is painful for me to write. We bid you all ten- derly and affectionately farewell. Joseph & Sarah Tallcot. To Sarah G. Hawxhurst and other women Friends in the city. New Yoke:, 5th Mo. 26, 1844. Dear Friends : I have received a letter from an accomplished woman in Connecticut, which speaks of being interested with the services of Esther Grif- fin and Hannah Field, some years ago, but condemned their preaching because she believed the Apostle Paul had forbidden it. I have been affected by viewing the hurtful effects of this erroneous belief, and have prepared an explan- atory essay on the subject, as a tract to be sent to as- sociations of pious females. I desire that a number of you may examine and consider it, and let me know if worthy to be printed and circulated. I believe the mouths of many tender, pious females are closed from publicly espousing the cause of Christ, and that more influence should be used in enlighten- ing the public mind in regard to their exercising the gift of the ministry. Yours, affectionately, Joseph Tallcot. From Joseph Tallcot to his son B. Sherwood's Corners, 4dh Mo. 26, 1845. My Dear Son : Thine of the 20th inst. is very welcome. We like to be informed about temporal 338 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. concerns ; it is, however, much more pleasing to have an evidence thou art choosing the tribnlated path which leads to peace. Many are the tribulations of the righteous, but the Lord delivereth out of them all. Oh, how many humiliating and painful sensa- tions real Christians have to endure, before they ex- perience sanctification ! "We are all sharers therein, but they that endure to the end shall be saved. . Truth is truth, although all men forsake it. A very trying time is coming on our poor society; I pray for preservation. The Lamb and his followers will have the victory, though it will be through much suffering. I have been reading William Penn's sweet sayings, in regard to cherishing natural affection for kindred ; may all our tribe continue to do so, and endeavor to promote each other's welfare. Myself and P. may possibly attend the Yearly Meeting; and why not thyself? hoping for the re- newing of that which first gathered us to be a peo- ple. The English Friends expect to be there. r son. Joseph Tallcot. Joseph Tallcot to his son It. At Home, 11th Mo. 5, 1845. My Dear E. : Thine of 10th Mo. 23d, from Chica- go, reached us on the 3d inst. Thy letters are always cordial to us. In seasons of prosperity, the chosen people gener- ally were apt to backslide. So it is with Friends in America ; many have become so blind as to take MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TAELCOT. 839 sides with the divider of the brethren. This makes it painful and gloomy, but I have faith that truth will prevail ; and I know not. but all things will work for good to all those who persevere without wavering. As early as the apostles' days, the church had tri- als, but truth prevailed. This is a state of trial, and not of reward ; trials without and within assail us. The Christian religion does by no means promise un- remitting tranquillity in this life, but rather trial and tribulation. In the commencement of a full dedication, sweet peace is like bounty money, confirming the covenant to fight the good fight of faith. How poor and wretched the praying Christian often feels when stri- ving to draw near to good. But the promise is, " They that wait on the Lord shall renew their strength." "We shall not always be cheered by spir- itual consolation ; this is vouchsafed as a brook by the way, as the all-wise Master pleases. Sometimes we <*an scarcely apply to ourselves the gracious promi- ses to the poor in spirit. I love to hear of my children's prosperity in tem- porals, but far more that they are spiritually engaged to use all diligence in making their calling and elec- tion sure. "We have lately spent a week very satisfactorily with our old friends at Farmington. Caleb McCum- ber was bright, but declining with age. Thy affectionate father, Joseph Taelcot. 340 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. From Joseph" Tallcot to his son D. and family, at Oswego. At Home, 5th Mo. 6, 1849. My Deak Children : Your recent very accepta- ble letters have brought you all into affectionate remembrance. Some unknown friend has sent me two numbers of the London Friend, one of which I send you ; on the first page you will notice is set forth the scorn and abuse early Friends met with for Christ's sake. In another article further on, you will find an account of a great Peace Society, held at Brussels, where it is said about fifty Friends attended, and acted in con- cert with some of the great men of the earth in pro- moting our favorite testimony against war, in which their influence was powerful and influential. It brought to my recollection the vision of Daniel the prophet, of the stone cut out of the mountain, how it broke in pieces the powers of the earth. So the meek and gentle spirit of Christ, manifested through Friends, without a- mixture, is breaking clown one great evil after another ; as intolerance, war, slavery, and intemperance, in all which Friends long labored much alone. A popular writer gives' Friends the credit of revi- ving the pure Christian religion. Have my dear grandchildren closely examined the subject? Is the cross too great a price to pay for the purchase of heaven? May I not hope better things of you ? I have no objection to my children doing all they can for the general good, and hope they will be very JIEMOIKS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 341 careful not to counteract our principle or discipline. I dearly want all my posterity to be good Friends. "What a privilege to believe and enjoy the gracious promise, that " where two or three are met together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." ~We love you all dearly. Joseph Tallcot. From Joseph Tallcot to Isaac Thome. Oswego, 9th Mo. 20, 1849. My Dear Friend, Isaac Thoene : Myself and wife are here on a visit to our children, who have met with a deep affliction in the loss of their only daughter, a very interesting young woman aged twenty-two years. She very unexpectedly died with a few days' sickness. It is a very sore bereavement, but it affords us satis- faction to Unci the family in a good degree resigned to this trying dispensation of Providence. May it be sanctified to us all. It is fifty-eight years since my only sister died at my house, since which we have been blessed with the increase of four children, three of their companions, ten grandchildren, and six great-grandchildjen, without the loss of any of them except a grandson, four years of age. "What shall we render for these and all other blessings, not the least of which, is the belief that a number of these have chosen the good part. Thy last visit to us was well timed, and is remem- bered by us with satisfaction. Our dear sister Phebe Field is in feeble health, but gets out to meetings, and is lively in the ministry. 342 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. Our love continues to thee, thy children, and in- teresting grandchildren. Farewell, affectionately. Joseph Tallcot. Joseph Tallcot to Isaac Collins. SnEK wood's Corners, 10th Mo. 6, 1849. My Dear Friend, Isaac Collins : Our grand- son, Benjamin Howland, has been attending school, not among Friends ; and we are pleased that his pa- rents, Slocum and Hannah Howland, are about pla- cing him at Haverford school. As he is young — about seventeen years — and will be there among strangers, it will be cheering to him, and grateful to his friends, for thee to notice him. "VYe both enjoy as good health as we have reason to expect at our very advanced age, and often think of you with affectionate regard. It may be too much to ask, but should thou or dear Rebecca write us, it would be very comfortable to us, who are now be- reaved of so many of our old associates and friends. Please accept our love ; also mention it to thy pre- cious sister Mary and family; not forgetting others of thy kindred, as well as other dear friends, whose sweet company we have once enjoyed. Joseph & Sakah Tallcot. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 343 Joseph Tallcot to his son D. and family ', at Oswego. Eleyexth-Moxth, 25, 1849. My Dearly Beloyed Children : My tender sym- pathy has often copiously flowed towards you in your varied trials. But a hope has cheered my drooping mind, that these temporary sufferings are working together for your everlasting good. May you, dear ones, pray without • ceasing tor ability to follow the footsteps of those who, through great tribulation, have entered into their rest, and are sing ; ing the song of Moses and the Lamb. Great changes have taken place in your family, and more in contemplation; may you seek for Di- vine counsel in relation to the right time and manner. Perhaps these few lines will be my last ; it grows more difficult for me to write. That we may all be hereafter united in that glori- ous society in heaven, is the supreme desire of your aged father. Joseph Tallcot. Sherwood's, 8th Mo. .14, 1852. My Dear Friend: I have reached the advanced age of eighty-four years ; have lost the use of my pen, and can scarcely make letters with my pencil, to be intelligible. Tet I have continued to feel such a deep concern for the welfare of the children of Friends and others, that I have procured a new edition of the " Friendly Visitant," in two volumes of about two hundred and sixty pages each. Of the first volume, our book committee have distributed among young 344 :memoies of Joseph tallcot. families about two hundred and fifty in our Yearly Meeting. My unity with First-day schools continues unabated, and I desire your school may be furnished with three or four copies of each volume, I have letters from worthy Friends approving of them, and informing of their usefulness. It would cheer my heart, during my setting sun, to hope they may be useful after I am gone. Respectfully, thy friend, Joseph Tallcot. From Richard Mott to Joseph Tallcot. Burlington, 1st Mo. 28, 1853. Dear Friend, Joseph Tallcot : Thy short but very acceptable letter came duly to hand, for which please accept my acknowledgments. It is pleasant to hear from our early friends — the few of this class that the hand of time has spared us — and truly the number of them is very small. I often think of thyself, and wife, and daughter, with Christian affection ; desiring that we all may be preserved, through the residue of the journey of life, (up hill though we may find it, and very short we are sure it will be,) in a humble an d' reverent dependence on that goodness that has hitherto been so gracious to us, even amongst our short-comings and manifold fail- ings. Many trials we have experienced, and more will doubtless be allotted to us. "In the world ye shall have trouble." But if happily we can so pos- sess ourselves in patience as to realize the subsequent MEMOIKS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 345 part of the text — " but in me peace," — it will be most happy for us. I often reflect, I hope with profit and encourage- ment, on the holy confidence with which the mind of the distinguished apostle was clothed, when, in the full assurance of faith, after recording the many perils he had endured, some of them from false brethren, he could gratefully acknowledge, " But none of these things move me ; neither account I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God." In relation to our poor, peeled society, it is difficult to know what to say. That it is in the wane in our Yearly Meeting, if indeed it is not generally so, I have no doubt ; and what can be done to resuscitate it? This is a serious question, and possibly a better answer could scarcely be given — " Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain who build. Ex- cept the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain." That as a body we have wandered from first prin- ciples, and, as a fact, no society can endure that does not maintain them, and its members live in accord- ance therewith, cannot, I think, be questioned. "We must return, then, to the original ground. We must deeply feel, as the originators of our society did, that profession is not principle. We must live in conformity to the gospel of our Holy Redeemer ; we must seek for more of the divine light, and let that shine before men. If we fail in these things, the so- ciety will decrease in brightness. And of the fear- 346 memoies of josErn tallcot. fulness of the issue I speak not. Let us then en- deavor to " serve the Lord in fear, and rejoice with trembling.'' Such committees as thou speaks of, appointed by the Yearly Meeting to attend subordinate meetings, would doubtless be useful in laboring to encourage Friends to faithfulness ; but they must be composed of men and women fearing God and hating covctous- ness — persons who could, in a good degree, sustain their religion by their speaking example : " follow us as we endeavor to follow Christ." So far as I know, matters remain much as they have been in Pennsylvania, and should fear that there is but little prospect of a favorable change ; and un- less the Lord shall help us by greatly humbling us, in a way that will reduce the pride of opinion and subdue the strong will of man, I fear we shall have to blunder on, as has recently been the case. I spoke early of the reduction of our friends ; in this number I would include my dearest earthly treas- ure, and also our long loved friend, Phebe Field. Their removal to a glorious inheritance, though hap- py for them, has caused a void in the society which must be long felt. The bereavement is a sore one to me, but I am endeavoring to lean upon the blessed arm, in which alone there is strength to support. Our friends in Burlington are in usual health. Ste- phen Grellet and his family, though often feeble, are now in their better fashion ; they generally get out to meeting. Whether we shall be permitted to meet again on this side of the grave, is quite uncertain. I hope, HEM09SS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 347 however, we shall remember each other in the lore of the gospel. With much love to thy wife and daughter. Thy affectionate friend, Eichaed aTott. Joseph Tallcot was favored generally to enjoy pretty good health ; and the usual infirmities of age, except for the last few months preceding his decease, were not sufficient to prevent his pursuit of those be- nevolent objects to which so much of his life had been devoted. As he advanced in age. the circle of his engagements became gradually less, but in that smaller circle he continued faithfully to labor until the end. He attended the Yearly lEeetings at 2\ew York nearly every year until the last two preceding his death ; and his voice was frequently heard in them, in advocating the cause of education of the youth. He was able to attend his meetings at home, except for the last few weeks of his lite, and frequently uttered in them his farewell admonitions to his friends, with great sweetness and solemnity. TVhen at home, most of his time was employed in writing and preparing books for small children, and attending to the publi- cation and distribution of them. His love for chil- dren appeared to increase with age ; his mind having so long been occupied in endeavoring to promote their welfare, by inculcating principles of piety and virtue, that he rarely met a child except with a smile of kind interest, and the present of a book, with a few encouraging words. 348 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. In the spring of 1853, his wife attended the Yearly Meeting at New York, leaving him at home with their daughter. During her absence, he wrote her the following letter, with a pencil, in a very tremu- lous hand, which is believed to be the last letter he wrote : Fifth-month, 29, 1853. My Dearest Earthly Friend : I derive comfort in thinking thou art enjoying thyself in the company of very many of thy old friends, and I trust some good new ones, and in good meetings. After thou left, on Third-clay afternoon I visited I. Kenyon and daughter ; on Fourth-day, was employed in my garden ; on Fifth-day, at meeting, with only six men and three women, owing to a great rain ; on Sixth-day and Seventh-day, at home, mostly employed in the garden. On First-day, at meeting, M. A. spoke well. I visit the garden very often, and am diverted by it. P. and myself are going on well, and thou need be in no haste about returning home. Perhaps I shall make some visits, when lonesome. I am trying to be ready for the great change. Love to thee, and to our dear children there. Will one of them write me ? Joseph Tallcot. It appears he visited many of his neighbors and friends during the absence of his wife, and some of them have mentioned the lively recollection of the child-like innocence and love which appeared to clothe his mind during these last visits. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALICOT. 349 He was taken suddenly ill, and a letter was written to his wife to hasten her return home. She found ' hirn much changed ; and he remarked to her and other friends, that he was gently going down, and manifested much peace and tranquillity of mind. Af- ter a few days he revived, but was mostly confined to his bed, not suffering much pain, except short spasms, which were not frequent. About two weeks before his decease he was taken with a fainting fit, which left him very weak, with more frequent re- turns of severe pain. His mind continued calm and clear, except in some moments of severe pain a slight wandering was observed. He often prayed that his patience might endure until the end, and that if it was consistent with the will of his heavenly Father, he might be released. At times he appeared to feel depression and poverty of spirit ; adopting the peti- tion of the publican — "God be merciful to me a sinner" — while tears trickled down his venerable cheeks. At one time, in reply to a friend, who expressed a hope of his recovery, he said, " I leave it all to the Lord. I have lived long enough, but must try to be patient until the time comes for release." At another time he said, " I commend my poor, poor soul to the Lamb of God who taketh away the sin of the world; may thy sacrifice for sin have its perfect work. My sins have gone to judgment, and I have a hope they have been forgiven." Afterward he exclaimed, with a loud voice, "Lord, I believe I love thee with my whole heart. Oh! for greater purity ! " 350 MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TAELCOT. Having been faithful in the performance of his duty while in health and strength of body and mind, he appeared to have little now to communicate to his family, except to his grandchildren, speaking to them several times with earnestness, and at some length, on the beauty and excellence of the prin- ciples of Christianity, as professed by the society of Friends. He appeared to be filled with love to all men, which was particularly manifested toward his friends and neighbors who visited him ; and on some occa- sions he imparted admonition and advice, with a fare- well benediction. Sometimes, when suffering ex- treme pain, he would exclaim, " Have mercy, Lord ! " and would often pray that patience might endure unto the end, and, if consistent with the Divine will, that he be soon released. About nine hours prece- ding his dissolution, his pains abated and his suffer- ings seemed over. Articulation had ceased, but his eyes and countenance bespoke the possession' of rea- son, tranquillity, and peace. For more than two hours preceding the close, all motion had ceased, except the quiet heaving of the chest, which gradually grew less and more faint, until all of earth was still for- ever. Thus passed from works to rewards, the friend, Christian, and philanthropist, on the' 20th day of Eighth-month, 1853, at the advanced age of eighty- five years. Two days afterward, the remains were taken for interment to Friends' meeting-house, where a large concourse had convened. The meeting was very MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 351 quiet and solemn. Susan Howland, a minister from New Bedford, appeared in a solemn supplication and a suitable testimony ; applying to the deceased as having exemplified in his life, in a beautiful manner, " that pure religion and undefilecl, before God and the Father, is this : to visit the fatherless and wid- ows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world." Amongst the large numbers who followed him to the grave, were many children and young persons. His aged widow, who was able to attend the funeral, expressed, at the grave, " that she had an humble hope that the spirit of the loved one, whose grave we surrounded, was admitted to those blessed mansions, where the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary find everlasting rest." The following letters, written to the family of the deceased, will close these Memoirs : Philadelphia, 8th Mo. 27, 1853. Esteemed Feiend : I received to-day thy letter of the 24th instant, informing me of the decease of thy beloved father, on the 20th instant. In the removal of this* venerable and estimable man, I feel that I have lost a dear friend, to whom I have long been strongly attached ; and our religious society, and the community at large, a most useful member. Amongst the Friends belonging to the Yearly Meeting of ISTew York, in his untiring advo- cacy of the all important cause of a sound, religious. 352 MEMOIES OP JOSEPH TALLCOT. and liberal education of our youth, he had no equal. lie lived to a good old age ; and although thy dear mother and his beloved children must keenly feel this separation, there is no cause to repine ; for like a shock of corn fully ripe, his immortal spirit has been gathered to its everlastiug rest. He has fought the good fight ; he has kept the faith; and I doubt not has received the promised crown of righteousness, with the salutation of " "Well done, thou good and faithful servant ; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee a ruler over more ; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." How delightful, how glorious to contemplate ! May we all follow him, as he followed and obeyed the commands of his blessed Savior ; so that, at the end of our race, we also may in mercy be permitted to enter in the pearl gates, and join him in that glo- rious city of New Jerusalem. I hope thou wilt prepare and publish a biographical sketch of thy dear father ; not to praise the outward man, but to magnify the heavenly principle that ac- tuated him, and produced such beneficial works. He believed and practiced the adage, " that no life is pleasing to God that is not useful to man." With my dear love to thy mother and sister, with thyself, I remain, Thy sincere friend, Isaac Collins. MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALICOT. 353 New York, 8th Mo. 30, 1853. My Valued Friend : And is thy father gone ? Shall we no more behold his meek and humble frame, leaning on his staff, and lowly bowing in deep rever- ence, as he worshiped the God of his life ? Shall we no more see him in the long accustomed seat, where, in summer's heat as well as in winter's cold, he met with the few, in solemn awfulness to worship and adore ? Shall we no more feel those deep and weighty in- fluences of his pure spirit, that used to now from him in by-gone times ? Will his voice no more welcome us to his house and board ; no more salute with pure love ; no more instruct with his deep experience, or edify by his heavenly and godly counsels ? Shall the poor,' afflicted, and sick no more hear words of conso- lation from his lips ? "Will not his form any more create a joyful pleas- are on the school-boy's face, as he enters the halls of learning, there to sow the gospel seed, and tell the youthful ones how Jesus loves children ; and kindly invite them to seek him, to love him, and fear him all the days of their lives ? Will Quakerism no more be upheld by his clear and gracely-seasoned judg- ment, and its simple yet beautiful truths advocated in the house of prayer, and its excellent Discipline sustained by his voice or pen ? Echo answers, No ; and tells us, that never again shall we behold the faithful old horse, in the plain carriage, bring that loved one amongst us. No ; the time has come, and the messenger has removed him from us; but he be- 854: MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. ing dead yet speaketh unto us, reminding us of the counsels he gave, of the precepts he uttered, and the spotless life he led ; pointing us unto Him who mer- cifully helped him, who sustained him in the vigor of manhood, preserved him in the morning of his life, and graciously supported him in the advancement of a good old age, and finally gathered him, as a shock of corn fully ripe, into the heavenly garner, where forever he will be at peaceful rest, enjoying the glo- rious presence of Him whom he loved and served on earth, and now will be permitted to love him more in an unbroken and endless eternity. I loved him much for his natural kindness and goodness, for his many excellent virtues ; but above all, for his deep piety, for his deep spiritual experi- ence, and for the love of his Savior, which was shed so abundantly in his heart. He often has comforted me in my own trials, and encouraged me in the way Zionward ; yet I dare not wish him back, or mourn his loss, for to him it is eternal gain. "When last I saw him, I felt it was the last parting, and turned again to gaze on his venerable form. "What happiness and relief to sorrow to dwell upon the great and momentous change of that dear and be- loved one, now no longer a sufferer with any pain ; no more exposed to any danger ; but in the bound- less mercies of our God he was prepared for a happy translation into the joys of his Lord. I am prepared to tenderly sympathize with thee and thy family, and this affectionate motive has alone MEMOIRS OF JOSEPH TALLCOT. 355 prompted me, at this time, to manifest it, although I would not lightly trespass upon the sacredness of grief. Give my love to thy venerable and beloved mother, also to all thy family, and accept largely for thyself, with assurances of continued affectionate regard, INDEX TO LETTERS, PASS David Ferris to Gaius Tallcot, ... 7 Gaius Tallcot to a Friend, .... 8 Benjamin Ferris to Gaius Tallcot, ... 9 John Murray, Jr., to a Committee of Friends, . . 14 " " to Joseph Tallcot, 6*7, 10, 88, 96, 107, 128, 131, 170 Joseph Tallcot to Abraham Underbill, 16, 17, 56, 65, 98, 114, 133, 144, 149, 154, 261, 269, 273 Silas Downing to Joseph Tallcot, ... 18 Joseph Tallcot to Phebe Field, 18, 27, 31, 34, 42, 44, 60, 69, 73, 76, 81, 83, 86, 92, 100, 199, 208, 216, 218, 325 Martha Routh to Joseph Tallcot, ... 20 Joseph Tallcot to his Wife, 22, 28, 29, 35, 38, 39, 189, 235, 251, 348 Elizabeth Brown to Joseph Tallcot, . . 23 Joseph Tallcot to Ebenezer Haight, ... 25 Anna Merritt to Sarah Tallcot, ... 33, 48 Peleg Gifford to Joseph Tallcot, 41 Joseph Tallcot to Elias Hicks, . . 41 Jonathan Swan and Wife to Joseph Tallcot and Wife, . 45 William Volentine to Joseph Tallcot, Caleb McCumber to Joseph Tallcot and Wife, 50, Isaac- Thorn e, Jun., to Joseph Tallcot, to Joseph Tallcot, John Simpson to Joseph Tallcot, Extracts of a Letter from a Friend, Tripp Mosher to Joseph Tallcot, •James Mott to Joseph Tallcot, Sarah Dean to Joseph Tallcot and Wife, 59, 47 , 84, 111 51 53, 160 55 61 >, 87, 113 79, 103, 139, 162, 179 87 358 INDEX TO LETTEES. PAGE. Joseph Tallcot to Peace Society Meeting at Poplar Ridge, 110 E. K. to Joseph Tallcot, . . . . 112 Seth Smith to Joseph Tallcot, .... 114 Joseph Tallcot to the Philadelphia "Friend," . Ill " " Address to the Presbyterian Synod, on the subject of Temperance, . . 121 " To Hannah Barnard, , . . 127 "William Allinson to Joseph Tallcot, . . 134 Joseph Tallcot to his daughter H., . . .137 " to his daughter Phebe, . 232, 335 " to his son R., . 145,319,324.332,336,337 338 " " to his son D., . . 241, 333, 340, 843 " " to De Witt Clinton, . . .156 The Presbyterian Synod to Joseph Tallcot, . . 158 Samuel Parsons to Joseph Tallcot, . 165, 239, 258, 271, 272 George Dilwyn to Joseph Tallcot, . . . 167 Samuel Emlen to Joseph Tallcot, . . . 174 Governor Clinton to Joseph Tallcot, . . 175 Joshua Dean to Joseph Tallcot, . . . . 175 Ezra Sampson to Joseph Tftlleot, . . . 177 Lindley Murray to Joseph Tallcot, . . . 181 Isaac Parry to Joseph Tallcot, . . . 183 Joseph Tallcot to a Friend in London, . . . 186 " " to his Grandchildren, . . 190, 318 Female Tract Society to Joseph Tallcot, . . 191, 202 Anne Mott to Joseph Tallcot, . . . 192 John Ely to Joseph Tallcot, . . . . 193 Thomas Eddy to Joseph Tallcot, . . . 195 Henry Ford to Joseph Tallcot, . . . 197 Gideon Curtis to Joseph Tallcot, . . . .203 Joseph Tallcot to Joseph C. Dean, . . . 204 William Foster, Jun., to Joseph Tallcot, . . 206, 256 Joseph Tallcot to Isaac Thome, 209, 226, 297, 304, 327, 341, 342. " to J. V. K Yates, . . 210 " to State Superintendent of Schools, . 213 " " to A. Corey, .... 220 " " to William Foster, Jun., . . 224 INDEX TO LETTERS. Joseph Tallcot to Richard Mott, "' to Robert Underbill, " " to Hiram F. Mather, " to Asa Mead, " " to Isaac Collins, . 246, 267, Asa Mead to Joseph Tallcot, Jane G. Mead to Joseph Tallcot, Noah Worcester to Joseph Tallcot, Joseph Tallcot to Jabez Chadwick, " " to Samuel Parsons, " " to J. J. Thomas, Richard Mott to Joseph Tallcot, Joseph Tallcot to Association of Young Men Friends, Anne Braithwait to Joseph Tallcot, Joseph Tallcot to Abigail Mott, " " to Ambrose Spencer, Ambrose Spencer to Joseph Tallcot, J. Orville Taylor to Joseph Tallcot, Joseph Tallcot to the Legislature of N"ew York, . Austin Steward to Joseph Tallcot, Joseph Tallcot to Martin Van Buren, " " to William H. Seward, . Governor Seward to Joseph Tallcot, Joseph Tallcot to John C. Spencer, John C. Spencer to Joseph Tallcot, Joseph Tallcot to William Basset, " " to Sarah C. Hawxhurst, " " to a Friend, Isaac Collins to Family of Joseph Tallcot, 359 PAGE 227, 277, 287 229 265, 243 283, 316, 342 248 252, 254 253 260 262 299, 301 274, 344 276 2S1 282 285, 291 289 294 295 300 306 309 313 313 315 321 337 343 351 683 ; #' "/* r ^ * <■ » ^ oo * '**,. v* Deacidified using the Bookkeeper process. Neutralizing agent: Magnesium Oxide ^ c Treatment Date: April 2006 $ • PreservationTechnologies A WORLD LEADER IN PAPER PRESERVATION 1 1 1 Thomson Park Drive Cranberry Township, PA 16066 (724) 779-21 1 1 V ^ ^ 0> * ^ J - 0^ ^%