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LIFE

fV ~Ytir'%\

WILLIAM Alilt-/

SELECTIONS FROM HIS CORRESPONDENCE.

IN TWO VOLUMES.

VOL. I.

PHILADELPHIA :
HENRY LONGSTRETH, 347 MARKET STREET.
184 7.

FU6-3

Kino & Batrd, Printers, No. 0 Geor** Street

PREFACE.

In offering, to the Christian Public, the Life of the late
William Allen, chiefly selected from his Diary and Cor
respondence, the Editors are deeply impressed with a sense
of the importance of the task, and of the serious responsi
bilities which it involves.
From a Journal that, for many years, records those cir
cumstances which awakened the interests, or called forth
the energies, of each passing hour, and from a mass of
correspondence, so voluminous as rarely to^be compre
hended in the association of one private individual, they
have found it no easy task to compile such portions, as
have appeared the most likely to prove interesting and in
structive to the various classes of readers, who may incline
to trace the events of a life, devoted, almost uninterruptedly,
to the promotion of the temporal and spiritual well-being
of mankind.
Amongst those who will probably avail themselves of the
opportunity, which this auto-biography affords, of becoming
acquainted with the sentiments and pursuits of the writer,
there will doubtless be included persons of various denomina
tions and circumstances, whose tastes, and whose opinions,
will widely differ. It can, therefore, be scarcely expected
that every object which occupied William Allen's attention
will prove alike valuable to each reader. Some may per
haps feel little sympathy with aught, save the workings of
that spirit of vital religion which 'animated the bosom of
this disciple of Christ. Others will dwell, with peculiar

IV PREFACE.

interest, on the operations of that benign philanthropy,
which induced him to labour with untiring zeal for the
amelioration of the miseries, and for the supply of the mental
and corporeal wants, of his fellow men. The Editors trust,
however, that many of their readers will, by their habits of
life and currents of thought, be prepared to follow, with
satisfaction, the diversified duties and engagements, that
claimed the attention of a mind directed, as was that of
William Allen, to the most important objects which can
employ the energies of an immortal being.
In consideration, therefore, of the varied predilections
which must influence the Editors, were they to attempt an
adaptation of the work to the particular views and tastes of
individuals, they have believed it to be more consistent
with their duty, and more likely to meet with general appro
bation, to present, as far as practicable, the picture of the
man and the course of his life, as drawn, with lively and
natural simplicity, by his own hand. And, perhaps, few
can trace him through the vicissitudes of his spiritual ex
perience, — through the deep conflicts and sorrows into
which, by the dispensations of an unerring Providence, he
was many times introduced, — or through the labours to
which, with disinterested benevolence, he devoted himself
and every talent intrusted to him, in order to serve the
universal family of man, — without being stimulated to an
increased dedication of heart to the cause of Christ, and
to a more diligent endeavour to promote " Glory to God in
the highest, peace on earth, and good will towards men."

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I. page
1770—1800. — Birth— Early Life— Diary— Remarks on the Slave Trade— Debates in
Parliament on Abolition — Removal lo Plough Court — Enters Physician's Pupil at
Thomas's Hospital — Elected Member of the Physical Society at Guy's — Askesian
Society — Marriage — Birth of a Daughter — Death of his wife — Partnership with Luke
Howard — Soup Society, Spitalfields — Studies Chemistry, Natural Philosophy, Medi
cal Science and Mathematics — Becomes a Member of Meeting for Sufferings — Death
of his Father, - - - ... - - 1
CHAPTER II.
1801 — 1805. — Death of his Brother Jonathan — Studies Botany — Attends Davy's first
Lecture on Galvanism — Great Distress amongst the Poor — Case of H. Barnard — Let
ter from Professor Pictet — Delivers Lectures at Plough Court — Elected Fellow of
the Linnean Society — Lectures at Guy's Hospital — Becomes President of the Physical
Society there — Second series of Lectures at Guy's — Botanical Excursion — Death of
Jonathan Middleton — Lectures at the Royal Institution — Extracts from Lectures —
Studies Crystallography — Visits Cornwall — Descends a Copper Mine — Labours in the
Cause of the Abolition of Slavery — Visits Essex — Cambridge — Professor Farish — Fire
at Plough Court — Yearly Meeting of Friends, - - - 39
CHAPTER III.
1806— 1809.— Public Affairs— Marriage with C. Hanbury— Bill for the Abolition of the
Slave Trade passed — Society formed to promote the Civilization of Africa — Minute
of the Yearly Meeting on the subject of the Abolition — Experiments on the Diamond
— Dissolution of Partnership at Plough Court — Journey to the North of England —
Elected Fellow of the Royal Society — Letter from his mother — Commencement of
Labours with J. Lancaster — Letter to John Norton — Letter from De Luc — Capital
Punishment Society — Letter to a Friend — Chemical Experiments at R. G. Children's
— Correspondence on Lancaster's Concerns — Various Business, - - - - 59
CHAPTER IV.
1810 — 1812. — Seizure of the Commercio de Rio — Opening Lecture at the Royal Institu
tion — Philanthropist — Letters from his Mother — Appointed Overseer — Arrival of
Captain Paul Cuffee — Opening of Spitalfields School — Correspondence respecting
Africa — Exertions on behalf of Distressed Manufacturers — Friends' Address to the
Prince Regent — London Auxiliary Bible Society — Relief of the Poor in Spitalfields —
Detraction — S. Grellet's Meeting for the Poor of Spitalfields, - 87

VI CONTENTS.

CHAPTER V.

IS13 — 1814. — Appointed an Elder — Savings' Banks — Friends' Tract Society — Lecture
— Interview with the Dukes of Kent and Sussex about Lancaster — Letter from the
former — Petition from Cardiff— Letter to Lord Sidmouth — Lecture — Conference with
W. Wilberforce about Sierra Leone — Lanark — Sierra Leone Settlers — Lascars —
Peace Society — Defeat of Bonaparte — Arrival of the Emperor of Russia and King of
Prussia — Friends present an Address to each — The Emperor attends Westminster
Meeting — Interview of Friends with him — Copies of Addresses — Religious movement
in Bavaria — Visit to Scotland — Arrangements at New Lanark — Death of J. G. Bevan
— Letter from Professor Hope, - - - - - 1 19
CHAPTER VI.
1815. — Reflections — Letters from Bavaria — Letter to Richard Reynolds — Lecture —
Companion to the Transit Instrument — Juvenile Depredators — Letter from the Duke
of Kent — from Professor Pictet — Saving's Banks — School Meeting at Bristol — Clifton
Excursions — Success of School Plans — Paul Cuffee — Letter from H. Cockfield — Let
ter to Robert Owen — Lecture — London Institution — 'Letter to Count Lieven — puke
of Orleans and Count L. visit the Borough Road — Correspondence with Richard Rey
nolds— Duke of Kent's Affairs, - - - 162
CHAPTER VII.
1816. — African Concerns — Correspondence, &c. on Schools — Duke of Kent's Business
— Savings' Banks- — Juvenile Depredators — African Institution — Death of J. Fox —
Brougham's Education Bill — Journey on the Continent — Death of his Wife at Geneva
— Returns Home — Lectures — Correspondence on Invested School Subscription, 193
CHAPTER VIII.
1817. — African Concerns — Correspondence on Schools at Hayti — Juvenile Depredators
— Wurtemberg Emigrants — Subscription for them — Lectures — Letter to Petion —
Visits France — Schools — Lectures — Death of Princess Charlotte, - -221
CHAPTER IX.
1818. — Reflections — Letter to Frossard — To Lord de Vesci — First speaks in Meeting
as a Minister — Interview with Lord Sidmouth — Criminal Reform — Religious visits to
Families — Journey to Scotland — Address of the Work-people of New Lanark —
Reply — Various Engagements — Prospect of accompanying S. Grellet to the Conti
nent, - .... _ . 249
CHAPTER X.
1818. — Sets out for the North of Europe with S. Grellet — Voyage to Stavanger — Per
sons professing with Friends there — Christiansand — Journey to Christiania — to
Stockholm — Institutions there — Interview with the King — Letter to the Kin<* 
Departure from Stockholm — Arrival at Abo, ..... 269
CHAPTER XI.
1818—1819. — Institutions at Abo — Travelling in Finland — Helsingfors — Fredericks-
ham — Wyborg— Arrival at Petersburg — Various Engagements^Excellent Institu.
tions of the Empress Mother — Meeting at Daniel Wheeler's — Ceremony of Blessing
the Waters of the Neva — Letter to W. Pepys— Commencement of the Scripture
Lessons — First Interview with the Emperor, .... - . 353

CONTENTS. >'ll
CHAPTER XII.
£81 9. — Various Engagements — Interview with the Empress Mother — Letter to Joseph
Foster — Second Interview witb the Emperor — Interview with the Empress Elizabeth
— Taking Leave — Departure from Petersburg — Arrival at Novogorod — Tver — Efforts
to promote benevolent exertions — -Arrival at Moscow — Visits to different persons —
To Prisons and other Institutions — Report to the Emperor — To the Empress Mother
— Visit to Alexander Rodgers — Letter to Count Romanzof — Taking leave at Moscow, 352
CHAPTER XIII.
1819. — Departure from Moscow — Visit to General Naschokiiin — Tula — Orel — Koursk
— Bielgorod — Karkov — Arrival at Ekaterinoslav — General Contineaa — Malakans —
Visit to the German Colonies of Mennonites — Simferopol — Karasan Bazar — Theodosia
— Return to Simferopol — Cherson — Tomb of Howard — Nicolief — Odessa — Voyage to
Constantinople* — Visit to Diplomatic Characters at Beeyuk-tere — Arrival at Smyrna
--Visit to the Bey Effendi — On Board the Boat for Scio, - - 3S9
CHAPTER XIV.
£819 — 1820. — Scio — Voyage in the Archipelago — Athens — Corinth — Patras — Quaran
tine at Zante — Serious Illness — Corfu — S. Grellet proceeds tp Italy — W. Allen to
Malta — State of Education — Institutions — Voyage to Civita Vecchia — Quaiantine —
Rome — Florence — Milan — Pass of Mount Cenis — Geneva — Paris — Arrival at Home, 430
CHAPTER XV.
E820. — Friends* Address to the King — Engagements in the Ministry — Committee on
Capital Punishments — Attends the Yearly Meeting in Dublin — Lectures at the Hos
pital resumed— Foreign Correspondence, &c, - 476

LIFE

OF

WILLIAM ALLEN.

CHAPTER I.

1770—1800 — Birth— Early Life— Diary — Remarks on the Slave Trade, Debates in Parlia
ment- on Abolition— Jlemoval to Plough Court — Enters Physician's Pupil at Thomas's
Hospital — Elected Member of the Physical Society at Guy's — Askcsian Society — Marriage
— Birth of a Daughter — Death of his wife — Partnership with Luke Howard — Soup Society,
Spitalfields — Studies Chemistry, Natural Philosophy, Medical Science and Mathematics
— Becomes a Member of Meeting for Sufferings — Death of his Father.
William Allen was the eldest son of Job and Margaret Allen,
of Spitalfields, London, members of the religious Society of Friends.
His father's birth place was Scrooby, in Nottinghamshire, and his mother,
whose name was Stafford, was of Irish extraction, her family having
formerly resided in the city of Cork. He was born the 29th of Eighth
Month, 1770, and even in boyhood evinced much of that activity of
thought, and energy in execution, which so remarkably characterized
his later years. His pious parents endeavoured to make religion attrac
tive to him, and taught their son to love and value scripture truth and
the society of those who were its advocates ; they early directed his
mind to take heed to the convictions of the Holy Spirit, and their
instructions, and tender, yet judicious restraint, were especially blessed
to hira. Often has he dwelt, with filial affection and gratitude, on the
watchful care of his beloved mother, and, in recurring to the days of his
childhood, the labours of his worthy schoolmistress were not forgotten.
It was her daily practice, before her little pupils were dismissed^ to
make them stand round her, holding each other's hands and say their
evening hymn. And, as these occasions have been vividly brought
to his remembrance, he has described with grateful animation the feel
ings of devotion which at times filled his heart, and brought tears into
his eyes, as he repeated the words —
" Glory to thee, my God, this night,
For all the blessings of the light;
Keep me, 0 keep me, King of kings,
Under thine own Almighty wings."
Vol. I. 1

LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE

1788.

His health not being strong, he was placed for a short time- in a
boarding school at Rochester, under the care of the late W. Alexander,
and during his stay there received great kindness from his master and
all the family.
Though he had not the privilege of a liberal education, he very
early gave indications of a genius which enabled him to surmount this
disadvantage. His taste for philosophical pursuits was developed while
yet a child ; he had a particular predilection for chemistry, and was
persevering in his efforts to obtain an experimental knowledge of this
science. Astronomy was also a favourite pursuit, and at the age of
fourteen he had himself constructed a telescope with which he could
see the satellites of Jupiter. In describing this circumstance he said,
that "not being strong in casJi" he was obliged to go economically to
work ; he accordingly purchased an eye piece and object glass, for
which he paid one shilling ; he then bought, a sheet of pasteboard,
which cost two pence, and having made his tubes, and adjusted his
glasses, he found, to his great delight, that the moons, were visible. Thus
for fourteen pence he obtained a source of enjoyment the recollection
of which always afforded him pleasure.
On leaving school he resided with his parents for some years, and
was employed in his father's business of silk manufacturer. Though
he was diligent and attentive, the occupation did not accord with his
inclination, and his mind was intent upon those pursuits in which he
was afterwards professionally engaged. His talents and character led
the late Joseph Gurney Bevan, to introduce him into his chemicaj
establishment at Plough Court, where, under the able superintendence
of that excellent man, he was soon promoted to a responsible situation,
and ultimately became the well known proprietor. This1 movement,
which was not made without much thoughtfulness, and earnest -desire
for right direction, may be regarded as the opening to that career of
extensive usefulness which marked his subsequent course, and emi
nently distinguished him as a man of science, and a philanthropist. ,
In him, mental cultivation and philosophical attainments were hap
pily united with sound christian principle, he was ever watchful lest
the allurements of science should beguile his heart from love to God, "or
adherence to the simple truths of the gospel, and his example is an
encouraging evidence of the efficacy of that grace by which he was
enabled, through a long course of years, steadily and consistently to
pursue the path of piety and usefulness.
He appears to have commenced the practice of keeping a diary, (a
plan which he always recommended,) soon after he entered his
eighteenth year; and his own memoranda and letters furnish nearly a
connected history of his subsequent life. His first entry is dated the
19th of First Month, 1788, when he writes—

1788. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 3
"Experienced some degree of comfort in striving against evil
thoughts. 20^. — First-day evening. — I went to RatclifT to take leave of my
cpusin; I may remark that worldly conversation was a burden to her
and to my dear mother, whose attention was fixed upon higher objects.
I must take part of the blame upon myself.
29th. — Impatient on disappointment, but soon calmed. I showed
myself too uneasy at the circumstance at first, but afterwards saw the
necessity of it.
Second Month 21st.— A beautiful passage in Pope's Essay on Man : —
' God loves from whole to parts, but human soul
Must rise from individual to the whole.
Self-love but serves the virtuous mind to wake
As the small pebble stirs the peaceful lake.
The centre mov'd, a circle straight succeeds,
Another still, and still another spreads :
Friend, parent, neighbour, first it will embrace,
His country next, and next all human race ;
Wide and more wide the o'erflowings of the mind
Take every creature in, of every kind;
Earth smiles around, with boundless bounty blest,
And heaven beholds its image in his breast.'
Fifth Month 11th. — Yearly Meeting, First-day." In speaking of
the preaching of , the gospel, he says, " Surely there is something more
than words, in the testimonies of the servants of the Lord ; something
within us which is ready to bear witness to the truth, and what is it
but the good Spirit of God i
12th. — Accounts from foreign parts (received at the Yearly Meeting)
mention a growing concern in the minds of the people for the Abolition
of the Slave Trade. May it be increased in such a manner as to put
a stop to a traffic which is disgraceful to human nature in general, and
to my country in particular !
Advised by John Pemberton to be faithful in small things.
Seventh Month 29th. — R. Jones and C. Hustler came to see my
father, and had religious service in the family. R. J. advised me, at
parting, to be very careful what company I kept, and added that if I
kept to tbe truth, the truth would keep me.
"Eighth Month Ibth. — O, for a continuance of that sweetness which
I, at times, feel a taste of, raising my affections towards that which is
good. iSth. — Spend no time unprofitably, as thou hast known the want
and value of it when it is past recall.
Eleventh Month 8th, 9th, and 10th. — Rumours are spreading that
the king is dangerously ill. These are sorrowful tidings indeed, as
I fear a dreary prospect will open if he is taken from us ; he has been

LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE

1788.

a merciful king to us, and I hope that hand which has been with him
in many difficulties, will, in this time of distress, be underneath for his
support ; and if it be consistent with divine wisdom to remove him from
us, may it be to an everlasting kingdom, and to the possession of a crown
that will never fade away !
21s*.— In Eupolis's Hymn fo the Creator is the following beautiful
passage — ' No evil can from Thee proceed,
'Tis only suffered, not decreed.
. Darkness is not from the sun,
Nor mounts the shade till he is gone.'
2£th. — How happy is the state of those who are led and guided by
the Spirit of Truth, the inward monitor! They need not that any man
should teach them, since they have taken eternal wisdom for their guide
and teacher. They are happy in having Omnipotence for their pro
tector, and no weapon that is formed against them will prosper.
Twelfth Month 2d. — Remember that thou hast been accused of de-
ceitfulness and underhaiidedness, therefore, though I hope and believe
that the charge is false, it is necessary to keep a strict watch against it,
and to adhere still closer to sincerity.
1th. — G. Dillwyn was at our meeting this afternoon, and, towards
the close, spoke in ministry ; chiefly addressing the poor in spirit, yet
aptly observing that there were some people who were poor, and yet
would neither work nor beg ; < such,* he said, < were a burden to the
community.' 0 ! thought I, had I but a house to entertain thee, how
gladly would I do it; but it seemed retorted upon me, 'Thou hast a
tabernacle capable of receiving his Master, why dost thou keep him
out ?'
18th. — Felt great satisfaction in attending to what I believe was a
secret impression of duty.
20th. — Morning. — Very much perplexed with my work ; but resolved
to exert myself in it to-day, and report the consequence.
Evening. — The consequence was that I got forwarder in it than for
several days past.
Twelfth Month 22nd. — -The prospect of the times is still gloomy.
The lamentable disorder of our dear Sovereign continues. We are poor
short-sighted creatures and cannot penetrate the design's of Providence;
neither is it proper we should. O my soul! endeavour to sink into a
state of resignation, and strive to get to that foundation which is not
easily shaken.
24$.— Suffered the enemy to gain a great advantage over me to-day.
0 the beauty of forbearance ! Think of it, and remember the precept
of the Apostle, not to render railing for railing;
29th. — Indulged the flesh too much this morning, by lying in bed till

1789.

OF WILLIAM ALLEN.

near eight o'clock. 0 my lightness and chaffiness! Lord, strengthen
me to oppose it, for, of myself, I can do nothing.
FirstMonth 6th, 1789. — Monthly Meeting: present, James Thornton,
an excellent Minister. He sounded an alarm in the ears of the ancients,
and tenderly entreated the youth. Late at meeting this morning,
through want of exertion.
10th. — A day of bitterness and sorrow occasioned by the death
of my faithful, loving dog, who was killed by accident in the street.
I assuredly bestow too great a share of affection on tbe animals I
have the care of. Resolved not to have any more than I have at
present. 11th. — James Thornton was at our meeting this morning, and
preached about an hour. Amongst other things, he exhorted us not to
set our affections upon any of the things in this changeable world,
remarking, that c according to the pleasure .we took in them, would be
our sorrow at parting with them.' The above hint was particularly
applicable to me.
13th. — A mournful reflection from a person, not of our Society, that
the Quakers are the proudest people upon the earth, and the most difficult
to be pleased in their apparel : however, those who may give occasion
for such a remark, are not Quakers, whatever they may call themselves ;
and, as formerly, all were not Israel who were of Israel, so it is this
day. Be not thou a stumbling block also — thou hast seen how ridicu
lous those have appeared who have balked their testimony — let the
sight of their errors quicken and warn thee.
I have been in a very low spot to-day, as to spirituals, and very poor.
Lord- strengthen my weakness !
First Month 21st. — James Thornton remarked in one of his religious
communications, that every act of obedience to the divine requiring
brings strength, and every act of disobedience, weakness.
Second Month 13th. — Beware of a spirit of pride in forming a judg
ment of things, of which, through ignorance, thou art not qualified to
judge. In short, it is safest to consider well, and not be hasty in
judgment. 22nd. — When I reflect upon the tyranny and oppression exercised
by my countrymen towards the poor Africans, and the many thousands
yearly murdered in the disgraceful Slave Trade, I can but be a zealous
opposer of slavery ; and, indeed, I have been so for a long time, as far
as lay in my power — yet one step farther may be taken by me, which
is wanting to complete my testimony in this respect, and which, if
universally adopted, would inevitably put a stop to this enormous evil,
and that is, disusing those commodities procured by the labour of
slaves. And as sugar is, undoubtedly, one of the chief, I resolve,

6 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1789.
through divine assistance, to persevere in the disuse of it until the
Slave Trade shall be abolished.*
Third Month 10$.--The king has been recovering for some time,
and was lately pronounced recovered, which is joyful news. But though
we rejoice and are very thankful for the event, yet we cannot join in
those demonstrates of feeling, which are to take place this evening,
(by illuminations,) in a 'belief that- such things have their source in a
levity of heart, which is inconsistent with Christianity.
Fifth Month 6th.— It gives me great satisfaction to see so many
of my countrymen warmly pressing the abolition of the Slave Trade,
and I have great hopes that their endeavours will prove effectual. May
fhe Lord Almighty, the God of mercy, strengthen their hands, and
open the eyes of men in power, to see the true interest of this nation.
lAth. — Read the speech which Wilberforce uttered last third day, in
the Parliament House, upon opening the business of the Slave Trade,
and could scarcely keep myself from showing evident marks of that
exultation and joy, which I felt on perusing his noble sentiments. The
truly patriotic Pitt seconded him in his glorious speech. Thus the be
ginning is favourable.
Fifth Month 15th. — The business of the Slave Trade was again
agitated in Parliament yesterday. Some of the enemies of liberty
pleaded for Slavery, to their everlasting infamy.f The case is farther
adjourned till next third day. The principal speakers for the cause of
humanity were Wilberforce, Pitt, Fox, and Burke. The pleaders for
Slavery and oppression, Penrhyn, Gascoigne, Newnham, Sawbridge,
Maitland, and perhaps more whose names I forget,— indeed they are
not worthy of remembrance.
21th. — Yesterday the House of .Commons agreed to resolve them
selves into a committee upon the subject of the Slave Trade, by, a
majority of 130. — Ayes, 158, Noes, 28, which being done, they began
to hear -evidence. Pitt, Wilberforce, and other respectable members
made several judicious remarks, when the friends of Slavery, and Mac-
namara in particular, instead of showing reasons why the trade should
not be abolished, flew out into invectives against the noble advocates
of liberty ; but he was suitably reproved by Pitt.
28th. — The House of Commons continues to prosecute the subject of
the Slave Trade vigorously.
Sixth Month Is*.— Yearly Meeting. The foreign epistles (from the
States of America) were read, several of which mention that the earnest
endeavours of Friends to relieve the oppressed Africans, have been, in
* William Allen steadfastly adhered to this resolution for upwards of forty-three years—
until the Abolition Bill passed ; when he again resumed the use of sugar.
t The reader will make allowance for the ardour of youthful feeling.

1789., OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 7
some measure, crowned with suceess ; and that the inconsistency
with Christianity, of the traffic in human flesh and blood, is more and
more seen.
9th. — This morning John Pemberton informed the Yearly Meeting,
that by late accounts from Philadelphia, he learnt that the three Monthly
Meetings of that city had appointed committees to visit the families of
the black people, resident amongst them, (amounting to two hundred
and forty-five families,) and that they found them, with very few excep
tions, an industrious sober people, maintaining their families comforta
bly. The above account was very agreeable to me.
Sixth Month 14$. — This evening Joseph Garrett of Cork came to
see us, and after tea we sat together in silence. He addressed the
youth present in an affectionate manner, and at taking leave emphatically
repeated the words, « Peace be with you.' Something of divine sweet
ness seemed to me to flow with them. I felt great love for him on first
seeing him enter the house, thinking that he appeared in a loving dis
position, and surely the Lord's servants carry his badge and wear his
livery, viz. — Love.
2Ath. — Youth's Quarterly Meeting. Present, James Thornton and
John Pemberton. J. T. spoke very encouragingly to the youth, exhorting
them, when assailed with temptation, to turn their attention inward and
wait upon the Lord, that so they might receive strength to overcome.
I do believe that the presence of the Lord overshadowed us. John
Pemberton came to see us after meeting, and spent the evening with us
very agreeably indeed. I greatly enjoyed his company, having a
savour of good Upon my mind, attained at the above mentioned meeting.
How much more pleasant is a review of the time spent in such, society
as his, than of that passed in the company of persons who have no
sense of religion.
Seventh Month 20th. — This morning my brother Joseph and I went
to J. Rowe's, to take leave of J. Pemberton and J. Thornton, who
expect to go on board the vessel at Gravesend to-morrow (for America.)
We met with J. P. first, who gave us tender counsel, and parted with
us very affectionately. I could hardly refrain from tears, but I used
my utmost efforts to restrain them. We next took leave of J. T. who
also gave us kind advice. The parting with such friends as these is
affecting ; yet I am glad that they have performed their service, and are
about to return to their near and dear connexions with the answer of
peace in their bosoms. John Pemberton has been more than seven
years amongst us in the service of truth. J. T. rather more than ayear.
Eighth Month 11th. — News from France of the destruction of the
Bastile. Cowper, speaking of this prison, in his poem, entitled ' The
Winter Morning's Walk,' written four or five years ago, expresses
himself thus in reference to its towers : —

8 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1789.
( There's not an English heart that would not leap
To hear that ye were fallen at last, to know
That e'en our enemies, so oft employed
In forging chains for us, themselves were free.
For he who values liberty, confines
His ze^i.1 for her predominance, within
No narrow bounds, her cause engages him
Wherever pleaded. 'Tis the cause of man.'
Eighth Month 21th.— I think it may be safely asserted, and clearly
proved, that those who enslave men or are accessory to it, are neither
moralists nor christians; for we know in the first place, that to drag
innocent people from their near and dear connexions, and from their
native land, to consign them to slavery, to wear out their lives in
continual hardships, is unjust ; and all this injustice has been fully proved
upon the enslavers of men; consequently they are unjust, and if unjust^
of course immoral.
In the next place, we know that none can be christians but such as
are followers of Christ ; and none can be followers of Christ without
observing his precepts, especially the fundamental ones; but the
enslavers of men act directly contrary to the precepts of Christ, for our
Lord says, ' Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye
even so to them.'' Now, when the advocates of slavery can reconcile
this with the murdering of one hundred and fifty thousand of our fellow
creatures annually, then we will allow that they are christians indeed;
but if they cannot, as it is impossible, let them join with the friends of
humanity, — let them rank with the followers of Christ, and abandon a
traffic so utterly inconsistent with' the high profession they are making,
and so offensive to the common Father of mankind ; for surely the blood
of the innoeents has been found upon our nation, and that not by secret
search. Twelfth Month 15th.- — George Dillwyn was at our meeting this morn
ing, and in a few words towards the close, he admirably described the true
sheepfbld, as set forth by our Lord, remarking that the sheep went not
forth of themselves, — the Lord put them forth, and went before them,
making the mountains (of opposition) to skip like rams, and the little
hills like lambs, &c. After meeting, the same friend came to our house
and dined, and spent an hour or two with us very agreeably. It is a
great privilege to enjoy such society as his.
Twelfth Month 20th.— How delightful is that flow of good-will and
sincere affection, which we at times feel towards those we esteem and
to whom we are united by a congeniality of sentiment— by a sympathetic
tie ! True friendship ennobles and enlarges the soul, and, as the poet
justly says,— 'Friendship's a pure, a heaven-descended flame,
Worthy the happy region whence it came ;
The generous tie that virtuous spirits binds,
The golden chain that links immortal minds.'

1790. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 9
30th. — How very desirable it is to witness, in some degree, a com
munication opened between God and our soul ! no enjoyment is like
this. May I never forget the little taste I have had of it this evening,
and often seek it by retirement !
First Month Athy 1790. — Surely, those who have experienced their
own will to be subdued and brought into subjection to the will of God,
must be in a happy situation, — they can indeed with propriety call him
Father. 1th. — O, the beauty and excellency of divine love ! How it elevates
the soul that possesses it! It is the very mark and badge of Christianity.
<¦ By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love
one to another,' said our Lord. Again, the Apostle saith, < God is love :
and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.' Now,
as God is the fountain of love, we may conclude that those in whom it
is found, have a communication with the fountain; but before we
arrive at this happy state, we must give up self without reserve.
25th. — The affair of the Slave Trade came before Parliament this day.
Second Month 3rd.— There appears to me such a meanness and low-
ness of disposition, in those who are cruel to animals, that I think I
could not put confidence in them, even in the common concerns
of life.
8th. — Too much resented a reproof; a sure sign that I needed it,
and had too high an estimation of self.
Fourth Month 15th. — Read the Scriptures to good satisfaction ; there
is no book like them.
20th. — Heard joyful news, if true, viz. that the answer of our worthy
minister William Pitt, to the solicitations of the Slave Merchants was,
that he would support abolition to the utmost extent of it.
Fifth Month 16th. — At Devonshire House Meeting in the morning,
John Gough, Thomas Rutter, and many other ministers were present.
T. R. preached (as I thought), in demonstration of the spirit and of
power. John Gough was afterwards similarly engaged, showing the
great importance of building on the right foundation, even Jesus Christ
the Rock, against which the gates of hell can never prevail. He said
the building so founded would not be shaken by the storm, and added,
this was the stone which the builders rejected, but the same is made
the head of the corner. We had a favoured meeting. 0, the excellency
of a true gospel ministry ! how it carries an evidence with it, that those
words are not cunningly devised fables, but eternal truths. The
impression of this morning will, I hope, long be remembered by many.
I enjoyed particular satisfaction in the company of Friends to-day, feeling
a great love and an enlargement of heart towards them.
Second Month 4th, 1791. — William Wilberforce, pursuant to notice
before given, being this day to make a motion in the House of Commons,

10 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE

1791.

for the appointment of a Committee on the Slave Trade, similar to that
of the last Parliament ; and as the Slave Merchants,' party in the House,
had givennotice that they would oppose it, I had a great inclination to
hear the debate, and accordingly, Thomas Crowley and I went, and a
friend whom we met with in the lobby, got a line from, a member
to the doorkeeper of the gallery, for our admittance. We obtained
entrance accordingly, and heard the worthy Wilberforce make and
support his motion, which he did in a strong and spirited manner; and
having been charged with wishing to delay the business, said nearly as
follows: — 'Is it possible that I should wish for delay, convinced as J
am, that every month, every hour, that the Slave Trade is suffered to
exist, it is heaping disgrace upon the country !' Tarleton and Caw-
thorne opposed, and Burke, Montague, and Martin supported the
motion. Fourth Month 18th. — The subject of the Slave Trade being fixed
for discussion this day, I determined if possible, to hear the debate.
I went to the house about eleven o'clock, and got a front seat in the
gallery. The House met and went to business between three and four,
but was thin till towards five o'clock, when a considerable number was
assembled. The minister and Wilberforce also made "their appearance
about five. When they had been seated a short time, the House resolved
itself into a Committee of the whole House. W. Wilberforce rose,
and in an able speech, which continued for nearly four hours, opened
the hidden things of darkness in an admirable manner, exposing the
horrid traffic in its native deformity, and showing, with undeniable
clearness, that the abolition of it, so far from injuring our West India
Islands, would, if adopted, be the means of improving them. He
concluded with moving for leave to bring in a Bill for the Abolition of
the Trade.
In the beginning of Wilberforce's speech, Tarleton took a sheet of
paper and a pen, with the intention (as I thought) to damp Wilberforce,
which Pitt perceiving, took pen and paper also, which I thought was
to keep him in countenance ; but the good man seemed firm as a rock
and not to be baffled by Tarleton and his company. Wilherforce sat
on the treasury bench, next to W. Pitt, and M. Montague sat near them.
Pitt gave Wilberforce every little assistance in his power with his papers,
&c, and I observed once in particular, when Wilberforce had drawn a
strong inference or. conclusion, that Pitt held up his hands in admiration.
During his whole speech the cry of 'hear him! hear him!' was
frequently repeated. Although he was but poorly the day before, yet
he exerted his voice in an astonishing manner, speaking with great
emphasis all the time, and shining brighter and brighter, after he had
been speaking an hour, than at the first, and his voice so far from failin°-
him, seemed to strengthen as he went on.

179L OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 11
His motion was immediately opposed by Col. Tarleton, who in a
speech of about forty minutes, endeavoured to defend this infernal
business ; yet I do not remember that he refuted, or attempted to refute
one argument of the preceding speaker. In one part of his speech,
pointing across the table to Wilberforce and others, he said, < The
inspiration began upon that side of the house,' then turning round, ' the
revelation has extended also to this, and reached to the height of fanati
cism and phrenzy.' — So it seems in his estimation, that inspiration is fana
ticism, and revelation phrenzy.
I hear this man boasts, that he has killed more men, with his own
hand, than any man in England. The words of Blair seem peculiarly
applicable to him, — ' Behold the sturdy man-destroying villain !'
After him, Grosvenor rose and opposed the Abolition, endeavouring
to ridicule the business, in which he excited the laughter of his party
in the House.
Martin supported the motion, declaring that what the Quakers had
done in the affair, was to their immortal honour, and mentioning also
in a particular manner, the University of Cambridge. He said, he
rejoiced that the proposition would prove agreeable to the Royal
Family. Martin appearing embarrassed at the, beginning of his speech, there
was a loud cry from the treasury bench of ' hear him ! hear him !'
Burden spoke against the motion.
Francis very ably argued in favour of the proposition, and in the
conclusion of his speech, said, his interest would have led him to vote
the other way, but he did not choose to compromise between his interest
and his duty, and if he had not preferred the latter, he should not have
felt happy in this world, nor hoped for happiness in the next. He
delivered himself well.
W. Pitt moved to adjourn till to-morrow.
Cawthorne said a few words. — Tarleton opposed the adjournment.
Here \Ve were turned out of the gallery, and whilst we were out Col.
Phipps said a few words.
Fox pressed for the adjournment, and said that he could not believe,
after hearing tlie whole subject investigated, that there could be found in
the House of Commons men of hard hearts enough, and of such inacces
sible understandings, as to go home to their houses and to their families,
satisfied with the vote they might have given against abolishing the
Slave Trade, after they had opened their ears to the discussion.
Col. Phipps wished for an opportunity of giving his reasons for opposing
the Abolition.
Pitt supported the observation of Fox, and said, that every principle

12 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1791.
that could bind a man of honour and conscience, would impel him to
give the most powerful support he could to the motion for the Abolition.
Tarleton declined pressing the question respecting adjournment
farther. At eleven o'clock the House adjourned, according to Pitt's motion.
Fourth Month 19th.-— I could not with any degree of convenience,
go to hear the debates on the Slave Trade to-day, but my friend Thomas
Crowley. went. The house sat on the business till the next day.
20th.— This morning, about eight o'clock, I went to T. C.'s to know
the fate of the business, and though I thought from what I heard in
the house on second-day evening, that there was greater reason to hope
than to fear the issue ; yet I felt an uncommon sensation, the effect I
suppose of anxiety, as I approached the house of my friend. My heart
palpitated and I was almost afraid to knock at the door. Upon entering,
I saw him in the passage. ' Ah, William !' said he, ' we are beat, —
beat all to pieces,-1— almost two to one against us.'
The intelligence struck me to the heart ; I was seized with tremor
all over, but endeavored to conceal my emotion, and inquired after
particulars: he assured me that the most astonishing abilities had been
exerted on behalf of the Abolition, — that he had never heard any thing
like it in his life, — that while Pitt was speaking, he remarked to some
one near him, that in comparison to such a man, they seemed an inferior
order of beings, &c. &c. In trie evening I got Woodfall's Register,
from whence I extract the following particulars : —
' The House having resolved into a Committee -of the whole House,
Sir William Dolben in the chair, —
'Sir William Young rose, and made an animated speech against the
motion; declaring, that 'although his understanding might be inacces
sible, his heart, he was sure, was not hard.' (He was, however,
upholding a trade which is founded in murder, and cannot be separated
from it, and declaring the tenderness of his heart, whilst at the same
time he was pleading for license to plunge his fellow creatures into the
abyss of misery !)
' M. Montague declared that he would defend the Abolition to the
last hour of his life, with the full exertion of every power and capacity
that God had given him.
' Lord J. Russell spoke against the Abolition.
' Stanley (Agent for the West India Islands), spoke for the continuance
of the Slave Trade.
'William Smith made a very long speech on behalf of the Abolition,
in the course of which he related some horrid instances of cruelty,
which excited the laughter and merriment of his opponents ! yet these
wretches hold forth their humanity. However, actions speak louder
than words. The worthy man met their behaviour in a proper manner

1791. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 13
and said he did not envy the feelings of those gentlemen. He made
an excellent speech, in which he exposed the nature of the Slave Trade,
and when he sat down,
' Cawthorne rose and spoke against the Abolition.
' Courtenay pressed for the Abolition.
' Sir William Young rose to explain something he had said about
witchcraft. '^''?Tt r^T ~
' Lord Carysfort spoke for the Abolition. /f "^y _

' Col. Phipps argued for the continuance of the slave Tirade, at the
same time stating the sensibility of his feelings. \Perhap£hd jtyas. afraid j
that if he did not set forth his own tenderness, no^ne jrVouM discover y'
that he possessed any. "^i..^ _ v "'.- •''
' Pitt, after a most elegant exordium, hinted, that his honourable
friend who introduced the motion, and those who supported it, were
apparently biassed by their feeling interested in its success, and hence,
from an over cautious desire to act fairly, had urged it upon the ground
of expediency, which he must necessarily follow, though he thought it
incumbent upon him to beg pardon of the House for so doing, and
desired previously to lay in his protest against its being so argued. He
then proceeded to state, that any person standing in his situation, was
as free to discuss the question, as any gentleman in any other situation
whatever. He said he observed the main aim of those who opposed
the motion, had been to give the Committee an idea of its impractica
bility. He would therefore meet that argument, and first, he would
declare that there was no principle of expediency that could justify
him in differing from his honourable friend, but on the contrary, if
there was one ground of morality and justice, that ought to govern
the conduct of the country in regard to its Colonies, he must on that
ground give the motion his hearty and most cordial support. He
observed, that a great deal of the argument had rested on the question,
whether the Colonies could exist or not, without the importation of
African negroes ; and an honourable gentleman, who, with great bodily
infirmity, had spoken long and ably on the subject, seemed to put it on
this issue ; and though the honourable gentleman had been an opposer
of the motion, he flattered himself he should be able to convince the
Committee, that there did not really exist the smallest cause for appre
hension on that head ; but on the contrary, that it would be made
demonstrably clear, that our West India Islands would, in all probability
if not to a moral certainty, be better cultivated and taken care of, by
the labour necessary on the plantations being better performed after the
Slave Trade Abolition had taken place, than at present. The honour
able gentleman in question, (Stanley,) he said, had referred them to the
Island of Jamaica, saying, and very truly saying, that from a consider
ation of the interest of that Island, and a due attention to all its cir-

14 LDJE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1791.
cumstances, they would be capable of judging of the interest of all the
other West India Islands. The speaker then took for his theme, the
population of Jamaica, and a calculation upon the decrease of it ; and
by a most ingenious and masterly argument made it unanswerably
clear, that the population of Jamaica would increase as soon as the
Slave Trade was abolished, and that, with proper regulations, in so few
as ten or fifteen years, the Island would be put in a far better situation
without the importation of any more African negroes, than it had ever
before stood in. He applied a similar line of argument to, most of the
West India Islands, and in the most striking colours portrayed the
consequences of that horrible traffic, the Slave Trade ;. arguing upon it
with a degree of abilityalmost superior to1 that which generally charac
terizes his speeches.
' Sir A. Edmondstone said a few words.
' Alderman Watson thought it would be a pity that the trade should
be abolished, as the fishery at Newfoundland would not then know how
to dispose of their refuse fish, which was only fit for the slaves to eat.
'C. J. Fox made a very eloquent speech in favour of the Abolition.
' J. Stanley said, that he came into the House purposing to vote
against the Abolition, but that the impression made both upon his
understanding and his passions was such, as he could not resist; and he
was now convinced that the entire Abolition of the Slave Trade was
called for equally by sound policy and justice. He thought it right and
fair thus openly to avow this change in his opinions, in consequence of
what he had heard. He was sure the Abolition could not fail to be carried
before long, the arguments in favour of it being indeed irresistible.
' The Hon. — Ryder said, he came to the House, not exactly in the
same circumstances as the hon. gentleman who had jilst spoken, but
very much undecided on the subject, that he was, however, so strongly
persuaded, from the arguments he had heard, that he was. become
equally earnest for the Abolition, and would vote for it with his whole
heart and spirit.
' — Smith (Member for Pontefraet) said a few words with considera
ble warmth on the side of the Abolition.
'Sir W. Young declared himself not convinced of the propriety of
the measure, and protested that he was as conscientiously convinced
that his side was the side of humanity, as any man could possibly be.
'Sumner opposed the motion, but saidhe wished fora gradual abolition.
' Major Scott opposed the motion.
' Edmund Burke supported it.
' — Drake spoke strongly against the motion.
' Lord Sheffield spoke warmly against the motion, telling the Chan
cellor of the Exchequer, that the day on which the bill should pass into
a law, would be the worst he had ever seen— it would hamper him

1791. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 15
more than his Spanish or Russian war, or than a war with all Europe,
inasmuch, as civil war is more terrible than all other war.
'• — Mills declared himself for the motion, and read some strong
passages in favour of negroes from a pamphlet Lord Sheffield had
written. ' Lord Sheffield replied.
' — Mills read another quotation from Lord Sheffield's book, and
insisted that his own sentiments expressed there ought to determine him
to vote for the motion.
' W-_ Wilberforce made a short reply to several arguments used in
the debate of the day ; and at half-past three o'clock the House began
to divide:— Noes, 163; Ayes, 88; Majority, 75.'
0! scandalous decision! 0 most disgraceful vote! After the matter
had been so fully stated^after the impolicy and infernal cruelty of the
Trade had been proved as far, I think, as demonstration could carry
them, as far as any thing could be proved in theory; yet British Legis
lature refuse to remedy it.
It has been thought that W. Pitt was not hearty for the measure,
because, it is said, he did not use his influence to make his friends vote
for the question ; but I really think that he judged compulsion in this
case an impracticable measure. And I also think the business came to
issue at a very unfavourable time, as there was so strong an opposition
to the minister in regard to his interference with Russia, he having but
about eighty majority on the question, when upwards of five hundred
members voted, and as many of his friends were against the Abolition,
I apprehend, he could not compel, them to. vote in favour of it, without
much increasing the number of his adversaries. I think, however, that
no one who has perused his excellent speech on the Slave Trade, can
doubt of his sentiments.
Fourth Month 26th. — This day the Committee instituted for the pur
pose of effecting the Abolition of the African Slave Trade met, and
voted thanks to the illustrious minority in the House of Commons,
particularly to W. Wilberforce, W. Pitt, and C. J. Fox ; and resolve,
that the solemn declaration of these gentlemen, and of Matthew Mon
tague and W. Smith, Esqrs., 'that they will not relinquish, but with
life, their struggle for the Abolition of the Slave Trade,' is not only
highly honourable to themselves as Britons, as statesmen and as chris
tians, but must eventually, as the light of evidence shall be more and
more diffused, be seconded, by the good wishes of every man not im
mediately interested in the continuance of that detestable commerce, &c*
* The little band of labourers who first formed themselves into a Committee to promote
the great work of Abolition, were William Dillwyn, George Harrison, Samuel Hoare, Thomas
Knowles, M. D., John Lloyd, and Joseph Woods. Their first meeting was held in. 1783.
The mode they pursued was enlightening the publie mind, and some of their efforts proved

16 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE

1793.

Fourth Month 29th.— The University of Glasgow has conferred the
degree of Honorary Doctor of Laws On W. Wilberforce, Esq., in order
to testify its approbation of his conduct respecting the Slave Trade. ^ ^
Fifth Month 15th.— Yearly Meeting. At the opening of the meeting
John Eliot requested that a person from the South of France, who was
convinced of the truth of our religious principles, might be admitted to
the sittings of the Yearly Meeting, which was agreed to. His name is
Louis Majolier.
Hth. — When the answers to the queries were finished, an extraordi
nary testimony, or memorial, from Ireland was read, respecting the late
Sarah Grubb, also one from York, on behalf of the same Friend. Louis .
Majolier wished to express a few words on the subject, which were
interpreted by J. G. Bevan, and were nearly as follows :— ' That he
wished to express his approbation of the foregoing testimonies, as it
was through the instrumentality of the Friend to whom they related,
and by her letters, that he was led to embrace the principles of our
religious society, and favoured with the reformation which had taken
taken place in him.' A great solemnity prevailed in the assembly at
this time : after him a Friend stood up and repeated the following
passages^of Scripture : — ' Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord,'
and 'Blessed are they who turn many to righteousness^ for they shall
shine as the stars, for ever and ever."'
Here a considerable chasm occurs in the Journal, but we find it was
in this interval that W. Allen's removal io the establishment of Joseph
Gurney Bevan at Plough Court, took place. This step was a great
disappointment to his father, who had designed to associate him with
himself in his own business, yet seeing the decided bias of his son's
mind, he acquiesced in the measure, and ultimately became fully satis
fied. After a residence of some time in his new abode he writes —
"Sixth Month 21th, 1793.-^Dear Samuel Emlen came to lodge at
Plough Court last night. This evening, after supper, when only him
self, A. T. Adams, and I were in the room, he exhorted me to run
with patience the race set before me, looking unto Jesus. This he
repeated, and desired me not to be cast down, reminding me that not
a sparrow falls to the ground without our Heavenly Father's notice
and adding, 'Ye are of more value than many sparrows.' I think he
intimated to me that my anxiety might be injurious to me, but I regret
not being able to recollect more perfectly what he said ; a more indif
ferent matter I perhaps might have remembered, but things of this kind
sometimes affect me so that I cannot recall them. I think he spoke as
closely to my state as if I had unbosomed myself to him.
O the mercy, the condescension of the great Master, to commission
highly useful. In 1787 a society was formed upon a more extended scale, when the names
of Granville Sharpe, Thomas Clarkson, and several others, were added to the Committee

1793. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 17
his servant to say a word to me, and a word of consolation too, when
I am sensible that I deserve not the least of his mercies, but rather con
demnation and reproof! . 0 my vileness!!
, 30th. — Yesterday Samuel Emlen, in his kind solicitude for my best
interests, exhorted me to ' dare to do right.' I accompanied him to
Ratcliff meeting, and had great satisfaction in it. He preached for a
considerable time, dwelling much on the words, ' My people shall never
be ashamed.' After meeting he sweetly desired me to remember this
text, and said he did believe that Jesus loved me. I was almost over
whelmed under a humiliating sense of my great unworthiness, yet
comforted in the evidence of infinite condescension and love. On a
review of my past life, of the world in general, and of the exceeding
diligence of the great adversary, I am ready to think-, happy are those
who are quitting this perilous scene.
Eighth Month 8th. — A degree of what I believe to be the loving-
kindness of the Lord followed me to-day, and something stronger than
hope prevailed, that I should be provided for, even in temporals. 0-
for the dew of heaven !
26th. — My feelings were wounded this evening. — 0 for divine assist
ance to bear and suffer! without it I am unfit for this world. Felt
consolation at night."
About this period much time seems to have been devoted to the
acquisition of chemical and medical knowledge, and to literary pursuits,
as well as to the claims of business. In a review of the year 1793,
he says —
"¦Much depressed, during part of this year, with doubts and fears
whether I was in my right place ; but, after a season of great conflict,
I was permitted to. feel the consolations of the Spirit of God in a manner
marvellous to myself: the clouds disappeared, — the tempest ceased to
assail my habitation, and quietness and confidence possessed my soul.
For this, and for other touches of his love, vouchsafed to me, who am
so unworthy of the least of his mercies and of his truth, I hope to be
ever grateful.
Samuel Emlen has lodged with us during the last half year. His
company and friendly notice have been very reviving and consolatory
to me.
I have attended some of Higgins's lectures, — learnt something of
short-hand, and the new system of chemistry, and instituted a plan
for my future studies. Attending to dear S. E. broke in upon my
medical career.
First Month 1st, 1794. — At meeting, worldly thoughts overpowered
trie, though the call, 'Come up hither,' seemed to be heard. O my
weakness! Lord, attract rne so forcibly that the enemy may not prevail
¦ — of myself I can do nothing.
Vol. I. 2

18 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1794.
2nd.— I behaved foolishly in return for what I took to be disrespect
ful treatment from an ignorant and conceited person. I was favoured
soon to perceive my error, and after a time went to him and confessed
myself wrong, and in this I had peace. O self, self! how jealous thou
art of thine honour !
First Month lith. — From my own experience I am convinced that
the benefit derived from reading does not consist in skimming over
many volumes, but reading slowly and attentively, not proceeding till
we have imbibed the ideas intended tp he suggested by the writer ;
considering the- correspondence they bear with our own ideas on' the
subject, and dwelling upon them.
16th. — In speaking to any persons with a view to their reformation,
it may be of great use to endeavour to ascertain the quantum qf pride
in their composition, and act with proportionate caution. Query— pis
not pride rank selfishness in the "root ? Thou hast strongly protested
against selfishness, bat thou certainly hast an over proportion of pride.
Prends garde done.
22nd. — It was a remark of the deceased T. Finch, that ' When things
were in their right places, best things would be uppermost.' I am
persuaded that it was the intention of the beneficent Creator that the
conveniences, &c. of this life should be enjoyed, but yet kept in
subordination. Beware, lest chemistry and natural philosophy usurp
the highest seat in thy heart.
25th. — Whatever knowledge thou mayst obtain in the prosecution
of thy plan of study, let it not excite any degree of self-complacency
or pride, but rather humbly rejoice that thou art favoured with an
opportunity of being beneficial to mankind.
Second Month 1st. — Beware of a disposition to add or diminish, in
order to embellish a narrative ; this may lead by degrees to a disregard
of truth, and finally result in bitterness of soul. Beware also of hold
ing any proposition pertinaciously, for a kind of natural envy, with
which many are possessed, will be stirred up to contradict what in other
circumstances they would have suffered to pass unheeded.
28th.— Fast-day. To be enabled ' to smite with the fist of wicked
ness,' has, I believe, been the object of the prayers of many this day.
Third Month 16th.— 0, the beauty of pleading for truth, in a christian
spirit, and keeping the creaturely warrrifh and zeal under foot!
Endeavour to convince the party that it is love for them which induces
us to persuade them, joined to a conviction of the rectitude of the
cause we advocate; in such a case, by no means strike at or wound
them, or unnecessarily lift up the voice of censure, either obliquely, by
inference, orin a more open manner; this is not likely to convince but
to confirm in error, there being a perverseness in human nature which
tends to reject and oppose a proposition, which, however good in itself

1795. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 19
is maintained with obstinate tenacity, and urged with indecent obtrusion.
If the spirit of love fail to convince, we are hardly likely to succeed."
After occasional notices of attending the meetings of the Chemical
Society, at Guy's Hospital, W. A. writes, on the 3rd of Fourth
Month— "Yesterday, I received a letter from the Secretary of the Society,
acquainting me of my election.
Fourth Month 16th. — Meeting this morning — comfortable. P. C. and
S. E. preached in a very acceptable manner. Towards the close of
the meeting, my mind was impressed with these words, ' We preach
not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord ; and ourselves, your servants,
for Jesus' sake.'
Twelfth Month. — The prospeet, respecting West India concerns, is
very gloomy. May the great cause of universal righteousness ever be
dear to my heart, and to promote it be the principal object of my life !
not in my own strength, but in the ability which may be granted by Him
in whom is everlasting strength.
First Month 9th, 1795. — 0 ! how sweetly comfortable when the soul
can forget all its anxieties and solicitudes, feel loosed from the earth,
and in some degree recline on the arm of divine sufficiency and strength !
Faith and resignation appear to be the watchwords of the day.
18th. — I took tea at my father's. Dear Mary Sterry was also there,
and, in a time of retirement, said she was led to visit us this evening
by something more than friendship. She addressed my brothers and
myself particularly, and directed much of her discourse to me, intimating
that it was the design of the Lord to make me an upright pillar in his
house. She cautioned me, lest my ardent desire for knowledge, even
with the laudable intention of benefiting mankind, should eclipse the
lustre of that inestimable gift, which she believed was bestowed upon
me. Her discourse was delivered with great affection, arid enforced
with energy. O! could I believe that I should ever attain — that I
should ever struggle through the briers and thorns, how would my soul
rejoice ! But the sickening prospect of those who have failed by the
Way, and the humiliating sense of my own weakness and unworthiness
at times almost weigh me dpwn.
First Month 20th. — A friend of mine just tells me that Holland is
lost : surely wonderful things are transacting in our time.
Second Month 1st. — I heard to-day that Amsterdam was in the hands
of the French. The aspect of the times is very gloomy, and the risk
I run in business, great I hardly can look forward with the expectation
of any thing but difficulty and danger. I believe, I may say, that I
never doubted, but have full confidence in the sufficiency of Divine
Power. ' What shall harm you if ye be followers of that which is

20 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 179b;
good?' The lines of Thomson seem a peculiarly appropriate motto
for me, under present circumstances :
' Like Cato, firm ; like Aristides, just ;
Like rigid Cincinnati, nobly poor.' "
William Allen's engagements were now become of a more respond
sible character; he, and a person with whom he entered into partner
ship, having succeeded Joseph Gurney Bevan, in the Establishment at
Plough Court, and also opened a laboratory at Plaistow. For several
months there is scarcely an entry in the journal.
"Seventh Month 3rd.— Entered physician's pupil, at Thomas's
Hospital. 4th. — We seem, in general, too much afraid of confessing the supre
macy of the Divine Being before men— we cover our lights. How
does this agree with, ' Acknowledge him in all thy ways ?'
Alarmingly high prices of provisions — bread, ten-pence half-penny
the quartern loaf.
19th. — The quartern loaf has been one shilling for some days — a
small part of the horrid consequences resulting from this wicked war !
Twelfth Month 10th. — -Bread thirteen-pence half-penny the quartern
loaf!!!" In the Tenth Month W. A. was, elected member of the Physical
Society, at Guy's Hospital ; and about this period, he writes —
" Went to the Hospital — received the thanks of a poor sick patient*
which did me more good than a guinea fee.
First Month, 1796. — Resolved to endeavour by all means to acquire
more firmness of character, and more indifference to what even my
nearest friends may think of me in the pursuit of what I believe to be
right — to do nothing ' to be seen of men' — to avoid every species of
craft and dissimulation — to spend more time in my own room reading,
&c, and in retirement."
In the course of this month several notices occur of sitting up all
night, preparing for lectures and making experiments. On_ the 28th
W. A. writes —
« Gave my second lecture this evening on Attraction. I believe I
have been deficient in directing my energies to one point. Consider
every undertaking, in which thou art engaged, as important, however
small or trifling it may be. Lavater, I think, says, iJlct well at the
moment, and thou hast performed a good action to all eternity.'
Third Month 28th.^ Our little Philosophical Society met the second
time at Plough Court— confirmed the rules. S. Woods, as senior
member, gave out the first question.*
* The Association, here alluded to, was called the "Askesian Society," and was formed
by some young men desirous, as, its name imports, to improve themselves mutually by

1797. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 21
Seventh Month, 21st. — Disappointed in my expectations of a letter
from my dear M. H. this morning. Very low to-day, and oppressed
with a variety of concerns. S. W. called on me. I told him I was
low and overdone. He put me in mind of the answer of the famous
De Witt to a query, how he got through so much business in a day ?
¦ — < By doing one thing at once, and, having finished it, proceeding in
like manner with another!' I do think that I should get on with much
less embarrassment, if I arranged my matters in the morning, and
plodded through them one by one, keeping my whole attention fixed to
that with which I was occupied at the time."
William Allen had for some time cherished the hope of forming a
matrimonial connexion with Mary Hamilton, the daughter of J. and E.
Hamilton, of Redruth ; and at length he obtained the consent of the
object of his choice for its consummation. On the 13th of Eleventh
Month, he writes —
"Our marriage was celebrated this day at Tottenham meeting. I
felt it a time of divine favour before, a word was uttered. Dear Thomas
Scattergood was there and seemed commissioned to hold out the lan
guage of encouragement, to us particularly, in an extraordinary manner.
It was a time never to be forgotten ; and he hinted that it might be
encouragingly adverted to, hereafter, in low seasons. My mind was
unusually humbled and tendered. My precious Mary seemed equally
sensible, that it might emphatically be termed ' a good day.'
Twelfth Month 28th. — When my mind is a little more at liberty,
I propose to lay some plan for the amelioration of the state of the
poor, and endeavour to form a society for the purpose, particularly in
this ward.
First Month 1th, 1797. — The Emperor of Russia, Paul, has begun
his career with a glorious act, viz. sending back to their country and
estates 60,000 Poles, who had been banishedhy the Empress Catherine."
In mentioning a few particulars of the Yearly Meeting, W. A. writes —
"Fifth Month, — George Dillwyn strongly advised Friends to contract
and settle their affairs. Great encouragement to the rightly concerned
in the day of calamity which may overtake.
philosophical exercises. The objects were td elucidate, by experiment, either facts gene
rally understood, or to examine and repeat any novel discoveries. The meetings were held
twice every month, during the winter season. Each member, in turn, was expected to
produce a paper for reading and discussion, upon some subject of scientific (not literary)
... inquiry ; and many of these papers were afterwards published in Tilloch's Philosophical
Magazine. Amongst the early members were William Allen, William Phillips, Luke Howard,
Joseph Fox, Henry Lawson, Arthur Arch, W. H. Pepys, and Samuel Woods, the last of
whom was President. Astley Cooper, Dr. Babington, A. Tilloch, Joseph Woods, Jun.,
and several others afterwards joined the Society, which continued for twenty years ; and
one of the first members, who kindly furnished these particulars, states — " I think the
Society fully answered its original objects, in exciting, and maintaining the desire of know
ledge, and the habits of inquiry and accurate investigation."

1 7QT
22 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE ±( '
21th.— David Sands and William Savory gave a very pleasing ac
count of their travels on the Continent. It appeared that an open door
was set before them, in many places in Prussia, &c. The knowledge
of Friends, and of their principles, was confined to a very few— chiefly
to those who had travelled, and to the learned. They observed much
devotion in the worship of many of the people, and much openness
in some serious minds,-so that they could unite together as the children
of one family. They cautioned Friends, who might hereafter travel on
this ground, to keep low in their minds, and not to expect great things,
observing, from their own experience, that it was in this state only that
they were enabled to get over mountains of opposition. In the after
noon, George Dillwyn gave an account of his travels.
Sixth Month. — My dearest companion is, next to divine consolation,
the greatest comfort I enjoy."
This dearest earthly treasure was not long permitted to be tbe de
light and solace of her affectionately attached husband. On the 6th
of Ninth Month she gave birth to a daughter; and on the 11th her
spirit was called to put on immortality. Her mind appeared to have
been ripening for the summons, and she was sweetly led to the feet of
Jesus. In reference to her death, W. A. says, " that his tortured heart
had felt as it were the extremity of grief;" but on the 18th he writes —
" Mary Stacey, after sitting by me a little time, was made a minister
of consolation indeed. With what sympathy did she enter into my
feelings! as if she had been acquainted with the workings of my mind. '
She said she was on her way home, but felt herself arrested. She
assured me that this afflicting stroke was not dispensed in displeasure^
but intended to deepen me on the everlasting foundation. She had a
prospect that the Lord was designing me for service in his Church ; -and
said, that if I abode under his divine hand, I might have occasion to
bless him for this affliction. My mind was much humbled, and I felt
the --witness for truth in my own heart, confirming the words that she
spoke. The billows were checked, and a portion of heavenly serenity
spread itself over my mind. In the afternoon, strong desires were afresh
raised, that I might indeed be the Lord's ; but 0, the fears that oppress
me, lest I should be yet drawn aside ! May he bind me to himself in a
covenant that shall never be broken! After supper, my mind was
calmed and quieted with.a sense of divine consolation, which rather
increased, so that I could then say, ' Thy will be done.' "
Such was the keenness of his affliction, that his health often suffered
from it, and so much were his feelings at times overpowered with the
sight of his dear little girl, that he says —
« I could not bear to nurse her long— 0, I thought how we should
have enjoyed her together !"
At another time he observes —

1797. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 23
"It is a sweet infant. I am afraid of getting too much attached to it,
lest if any accident befall it, my sufferings should be intense."
The latter end of Tenth Month he writes, in reference to his loss —
" 0 how I loved her — how we loved each other ! I paid some
attention to business to-day ; but how heavily it went on ! The long
line of years, which I may probably have to traverse, presents a gloomy
prospect, and I fear, lest I should be drawn aside from what I see and
believe to be right, and so the design of the Almighty, in administering
this truly bitter cup, be, with regard to me, frustrated. After dinner,
my dear mother and I were alone, and I opened my mind to her, stating
my great fears about myself; but she comforted me with the assurance,
that it was sealed upon her mind that this affliction was sent to bring
me nearer to the source of good. My spirit was much humbled, and
more serene during the rest of the day. I have thought that when the
glory which shall be revealed is tasted, the greatest affliction we can
suffer below, will, in comparison, appear trifling. O my soul! under all
thy tribulations, constantly keep in view, that, in that city towards which
thou wishest to direct thy course, all tears shall be for ever wiped away,
and that there thy dearest Mary is a joyful inhabitant."
In allusion to his rides to Plaistow he thus writes —
" This road brings the idea oLmy precious, my most endeared com
panion strongly before me. How often have wej in sweet harmony,
travelled it together ! how my soul was united to her.
¦ And is it then to live when such friends part ?
'Tis the survivor dies.'
I hope I do not repine, though my trial is exceedingly great."
During a little journey in Essex, he says —
" When I see a fine prospect it. often occurs, what interest I should
have taken in showing it to her. What sublime pleasure is received by
reflection from another, that is, in the sense of making another happy."
In again referring to this subject after his return, he observes —
" 0 ! it was my chief pleasure to make her happy and comfortable.
What delight did I take in doing little things to please her ! Ah ! how
we lived together, in most sweet amity. — One only knows how deep
and strong was my attachment to her, and her's also to me, it was
indeed a union of souls ; 0, when will the re-union take place ? I long
to be released from the scenes of life — but how does this accord with,
' Thy will be done.' "
He frequently acknowledges, with much grateful feeling, the kindness
of Joseph Gurney Bevan and his wife, and remarks —
« After meeting, dear J. G. B. came in as usual. He possesses the
faculty of sympathy in an eminent degree."
In a season of deep depression and discouragement, W. A. writes—

T7Q7
24 UFE AND CORRESPONDENCE liJ '
" My resolution has been, that if I perish, it shall be at the footstool
of my God, though I have been, at times, afraid to call him so, or to
use the term, Father. In the afternoon I had a relieving opportunity
with my dear mother, who comforted me much. Sitting a little quietly
by the fire, and endeavouring to direct my mind towards the source of
all good, I was favoured to feel a little calm, and was sensible of a
degree of divine support. It will be well for me often to retire to wait
upon the Lord, that my spiritual strength may be renewed. And 0!
saith my soul, may I never love anything more than him! but- be
favoured to keep every thing in subordination, yea, under my feet. 0
that I may now be wholly devoted to him and to his cause, being careful
for nothing, but how to fill up my duty from time to time.
¦ Tenth Month I8th.—My mind was strengthened with a belief that
the Comforter was near; my breathings were for preservation, and that
I might henceforth live loose-fo every thing terrestrial, looking forward
to a better country. I felt a persuasion that there was a work for me
to do in the church. Nature wpuld wish to be released now, and seems
ready to shrink from the prospect of future conflicts, but remember, 0
my soul, the promises held out 'to him that overcometh.'
24th.- — I have felt much supported to-day, and for some days past.
Retired for about half an hour before supper, and felt comforted. I
seemed willing to part with all, that I might win Christ. 0, howl have
longed for a more intimate knowledge of him !
25th. — My mind was much affected in walking along Fenchurch
Street, this afternoon, with a retrospect of my life, and a sense of an
invisible power having preserved me from the great dangers which my
ardent desire for knowledge had thrown in my way. It seemed to be
a mercy claiming my deep gratitude, and I could scarcely refrain from
tears. In the evening strong desires were raised that the 'Lord wpuld
be with me indeed.
Eleventh Month 8th. — In the meeting for discipline, to-day, the usual
clerk being absent, I was unexpectedly called to act in his place as
clerk. I felt deeply my want of qualification, yet was not easy to
object, or make any speech on the occasion, and believing that best
help would be granted, I went to- the table. Dear J. G. B. kindly
assisted, and when the business was over, I had a sweet flow of that
peace which the world cannot give, — it accompanied me the remainder
of the day, so that my little stock of faith and hope increased.
19th. — Rather comforted this morning; it seemed to open on my
view, with respect to my great attraction to natural science, that when
I felt it strong, and likely to get the ascendancy, it would be my duty
to indulge less in it, abridge the time devoted to it, and fast from it.
22nd. — Led into too much conversation on public affairs— maintain
the watch.

1797. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 25
William, Phillips seems very earnest about a society for the relief of
the poor this winter ; I encouraged the suggestion, and agreed to be one.
Public affairs get darker and darker.
28th. — O, may I be increasingly careful to avoid every shade of
egotism! It is the nurse of vanity, self and many evil seeds ; I have
seen its deformity in others, and felt it in myself.
J. G. B. encouraged my going to see the Friends from Huntingdon
shire, who are prisoners for the non-payment of tithes, and are lodged
within the Rules of the Fleet. He farther strengthened me, by whis
pering, 'I was in prison,' &c. I was really glad of the opportunity,
and had satisfaction in, visiting them.*
Twelfth Month 1st. — W. Phillips and I went to Desormaux, and
thence with him and his son to Patrick Colquhoun's on the soup scheme.
I was glad to find his opinions, with regard to the present state of the
poor, so exactly correspond with my own. He thinks, I believe, that
one shilling and eight-pence of the money, now raised for them by
government, would be amply sufficient if properly applied. He thought
the misapplication was partly in consequence of a radical defect in the
Poor Laws, and partly from the administration of them getting into the
hands of ignorant and interested persons : and, on a review of the
character and circumstances of the parish officers, he concluded that
the provision for the poor was one great job. He entered into the
matter at great length, and I rejoiced that a person so well qualified,
as I believe him to be, to form or assist in a plan for relieving them,
should have so clear a view of the subject. On the whole he encou
raged us to make an experiment, and promised to assist.
Went thence to a meeting of the Askesian Society. An excellent
paper was read, of Samuel Woods's, on the General Principles of
Astronomy. 1th. — The Soup Society commenced this evening, and met at
William Phillips's. The propositions were read, and the consideration
of them deferred to the next meeting, which is to be held at Sparkes
Moline's."t * John Brown, John King, and John Brown, Jun. of Earith, were committed to Hunting
don Gaol in the year 1797, by Exchequer process, on account of tithes, and afterwards for
a short time to the Fleet Prison ; but were released on the issuing of a writ of sequestration.
t As this Society proved of great and extensive benefit, and had an important bearing
upon many subsequent efforts for the relief of the poor, we extract some particulars of its
formation and, progress, from an account of it published by William Allen in the Philan
thropist. "In Spitalfields and its neighbourhood,, some thousands of industrious poor families
were, at times, reduced to great misery and destitution, from the stagnation of trade and
the high price of provisions. In the year 1797, the attention of two persons (William Phil
lips and William Allen) was particularly directed to the best means of affording them relief.
As cheap and nutritious food appeared of the first importance, the efforts of Count Rum-
ford, who had made various experiments upon this subject at Munich, naturally presented

1797
26 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE
Inlhe course of this year much of the weight and responsibility of
an extending business devolved upon William Allen. The laboratory
claimed great attention, as well as the important concerns at Plough
Court. It was accordingly found necessary to make fresh arrangements,
and a new partnership was formed between Luke Howard and Wdham
Allen, under the firm of Allen. and Howard.
Though the great domestic affliction, occasioned by the loss of his
wife, pressed heavily upon his sensitive mind, yet in all his trials and
perplexities, his God wag his refuge, and to him he looked for strength
and guidance. He frequently notices having experienced a "time of
themselves ; it was, nevertheless, to be borne in mind that the poor of Bavaria and the poor
of England were a very different description of people, tind it was yet to be tried whether
there might not be insurmountable prejudices in the way of any such plans. A meeting
was however called at the house of a Friend ; about twenty persons were present, and the
company resolved to form themselves into a society for the purpose of supplying the poor
with meat soup at one penny per quart. i
" A subscription was immediately commenced, the society rapidly increased, and, in the
course of a few days, a committee was formed, sub-committees were then appointed, and
by a division of labour, the society was quickly organized. Eligible premises were procured
in Brick Lane, Spitalfields, arrangements were speedily made to adapt them to the purpose,
and tickets were printed and issued to the subscribers. On the first day of delivery the
visitors attended under no small anxiety as to the result of their experiment. It succeeded
however to their utmost wish, the applicants paid the penny per quart with cheerfulness,
and carried home a supply of food which they could not have prepared of equal quality
themselves for four or five times that sum. The committee purchased at wholesale prices,
meat, barley, peas, &c, of prime quality, and, as every thing was done disinterestedly, there
Were no salaries for clerks, nor any expenses beyond the cost of the ingredients for the
soup, the rent of the premises, the hire of servants to prepare the soup under the inspection
of the visitors, and a superintendent.
"The committee, deeply sensible that the success of every charity mainly consists in
personal inspection, and in a scrupulous and minute attention to all the details connected
with it, formed its regulations accordingly ; a constant oversight was kept up by the mem
bers of the committee in rotation, and one of the by-laws was, ' that the morning and even
visitors do severally note in the visitor's book the precise time of their coming/- It was
the duty of the visitors to inspect the preparations for the soup, see the meat, &c. weighed,
and enter the particulars in the book.
" At first the applicants were served with soup every day, but the distress being very
great, the numbers increased so rapidly that the committee were obliged to adopt the plan
of distributing it only every other day to the same person. There were five boilers in the
soup house capable of making from three thousand to three thousand three hundred quarts,
" The committee being very anxious to economize the time of the poor, had their arrange
ments brought to such perfection, that upwards of three thousand quarts were daily distri
buted to above one thousand persons applying on behalf of their respective families, their
money taken and their tickets marked, in less than two hours and a quarter, on an average.
The difference between the cost of the soup, and tbe money paid by the poor, occasoined
a loss to the society of about one hundred and fifty pounds per week ; this was provided
for by liberal contributions from-various classes, including public companies.
" It was found that this mode of relief, as far as it extended, had been substantia], and
was received with thankfulness by the great bulk of the applicants, many of whom declared
that without it their families must have starved. In a subsequent period of great distress
Spitalfields was divided into districts, and the wants of the poor personally inspected when
a large supply of food and clothing was distributed amongst the most necessitous cases."

1798. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 27
favour in fervent supplication," and says, on one occasion, "I am
abundantly encouraged to persevere in setting apart a portion of time
every day for religions retirement." Indeed he often commemorates
the sweet solace he found in waiting upon the Lord, and more than
once mentions this petition being offered up, "Malceme one of those
sheep of whom thou hast said, ' they shall never perish, neither shall
any man pluck them out of my hand.'" He one morning relates, that
he had experienced such a flow of divine consolation and peace as
humbled his spirit exceedingly.
"I seemed," he says, « to have somewhat of a sight and feeling of
the disposition which prevailed in heaven — such a unity — such a lamb
like spirit — such a profound peace — no jar, no contention, nothing
wrathful there. Such dispositions appeared diametrically opposite to
those which prevailed in the kingdom of God. I saw that the world
could not comprehend this state, and strong were my desires that I
might be kept out of its parties, its noises, and its bustles, and be even
esteemed a fool for Christ's sake. It was indeed a memorable time,
and my heart overflowed."
In addition to a diligent attention to chemical and philosophical
studies, botany was pursued with great zeal and industry.
"First Month 6th, 1798.— Some rays from a better country, I trust.
Soul, keep in the valley — be content to let any one take the precedency
— study to be more than to seem.
May I be kept from hurting the'Lord's cause, and from giving offence
to any of his little ones !
Many persons are seeking after truth in natural science, but how few
in spiritual things! the reason probably is, that when found in the former
it exalts the creature, but when discovered in the latter, it lays him low.
It may not perhaps chime in with his particular notions, and it certainly
will not with his irregular desires.
14th. — The soup scheme absorbed a large portion of time last week.
W. P. and I congratulated each other on its being brought so near to
a point. It is to begin on second day. I hope it will then go on like
clock work, and that we shall be relieved.
15th.- — At the soup committee I hurt myself by being too tenacious
of the form of the tin vessels: — was partially relieved, by acknowledg
ing my error, but it stuck by me all the evening— a sweet time in sup
plication before I went to bed.
The soup concern continues to occupy much of my attention. We
opened on third day, the 16th, and sold two hundred and seventy-six
quarts ; fourth day, four hundred and fifteen ; fifth day, six hundred
and fifty; sixth day, seven hundred and eighty-five; seventh day, eight
hundred and eighty-nine, or thereabouts. My feelings have rarely been

28 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1798.
so gratified as during the serving time on third day. Many persons
who came were evidently of a decent class, and the propriety of the
measure was abundantly proved. I considered it a privilege to be on
duty. Very anxious on account of the thickening gloom which envelopes
our political hemisphere. It seems likely that the French will cut us
off from Hamburg, if they have not already done so ; and it is supposed
they are by this time in possession of Rome.
31st.— At the soup committee, I proposed a plan of keeping a book,
and making domiciliary visits to the cases, but was negatived, on
account of the trouble. I felt rather hurt on the occasion, one of my
opponents having expressed triumph ; but I was principally grieved on
account of being' dissappointed in the attempt to carry the plan to the
greatest perfection of which it is capable. 0, that self were more
reduced ! it is this which gives us pain on contradiction. More com
forted in my vesper thanl expected.
Second Month lst.-^My irritation on the soup business subsided, and
I acknowledged myself wrong, in pressing too earnestly what I yet
conceive to be an excellent -measure. Act steadily to one point, viz.,
thy duty, and neither seek the favour nor fear the frowns of man.
0 precious, everlasting, immutable Truth ! may I be one of thy most
ardent votaries! I had peace in submitting to be esteemed a fool.
5£A.— Should the Lord bless me in temporals, may I ever remember
the wormwood and the gall, and rather endeavour to be of use in my
day, than be eager to accumulate wealth. May all that I do bear a
reference to the aw'ful close, and may I singly seek to know the will of
my Lord, and to do it!
In my retirement on seventh- day, it seemed desirable to shut out,
as much as possible, all anxiety or thought about business on the
ensuing day, and to endeavour to abstract my mind from what is
around me.
1th. — My spirits were better than usual this morning, attended with
a degree of sweetness. At the first meeting, I was comforted with a
sense of good, and my faith in God was remarkably strengthened. At
the meeting for discipline, I was chosen assistant clerk, and was afraid
to refuse, or even to utter a word on the subject.
23rd. — I felt an inclination to attend the school meeting at Islington,
and made an effort to get away from the soup committee. In going
along I had sweet peace, and was richly favoured at meeting., I
reviewed-my movements, respecting my late beloved companion, and
could not see that I had done wrong in entering into the connexion,
but otherwise ; and I had to believe that what has befallen me, has
been directed in consummate wisdom for my everlasting good.

1798. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 29
That apostle of humanity, Thomas Olarkson, supped and lodged
with me this evening.* *
Third Month 20th. — P. Colquhoun called yesterday, and much
pressed me to let him propose my name for one of the general com
mittee of the Society for Bettering the Condition of the Poor. I am
in a strait about it, as many of the members are of the nobility, and I
am fearful that I might not keep my place as a Friend.
26th. — The soup scheme goes on well — one thousand nine hundred
quarts were served on sixth day.
Fourth Month. — 0, let it be the grand business of my life to promote
peace on earth and good will amongst men!
The Soup Society closed for the season on the 28th. I was on duty.
Eleven hundred'and eighty-three quarts were served. Many expressed
their sorrow at the cessation of this relief, and many their gratitude and
blessings in strong terms. My heart was heavy.
Fifth Month 8th. — I read an excellent little publication on the unlaw
fulness of defensive war, by ' a clergyman of the church of England.'
I was exceedingly delighted in reading it.
I was favoured on fourth day with some sweet touches of divine love ;
' draw me and I will run after thee' is frequently the language of my
soul." In the review of the succeeding week, W. A. says — ¦
" Very low and poor, with a few exceptions. I think I am, never
theless, sometimes favoured in my nightly petitions, and can at times
say, ' Lord, thou knowest that I love thee !' O, for preservation from
the spirit of the world ! I am certainly a very poor, weak creature,
much wanting in firmness and strength of mind, vain, abounding in
self-love, and very indolent."
After a short notice of the proceedings of the Yearly Meetings he
says —
" The closing meeting was a signally precious opportunity. Answers
to the Epistles from America were read and agreed to, also the written
and general epistle ; and the pause after was most solemn indeed —
rarely have I felt anything like it. O, what flowings of love did I then
feel to the brethren ! The meeting broke up in this sweet savour of
life, but lasted till between nine and ten o'clock. Verily, this was a
season not to be forgotten — the savour remained like precious ointment.
We rejoiced in our own little circle on returning . home, and in a few
minutes' retirement were baptized together.
Sixth Month 10th. — Religious retirement ought to be sought, even
* The intimacy between Thomas Clarkson and William Allen commenced in the year
1794, and from that period (as W. A. mentioned in a letter to a friend) they laboured together
in the cause of Africa, endeavouring to obtain and diffuse information, and to promote her
interest by every means within their reach.

30 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 179b.
when we feel a contrary inclination ; more especially when the holy
flame languisheth, and the spirit of the world prevails.
13^.— Meeting. A time of divine favour tome from my first-sitting
down. C. Hustler and G. Dillwyn ministered, and most excellently,
but if the Minister of ministers does not manifest himself, it is of little
consequence to me whether there is silenoe or preaching, excepting
indeed when the word spoken is brought home by the internal, witness.
Public affairs are more alarming, rebellion has broken out in the.
North of Ireland.
I feel great self-contempt when I detect myself in doing anything to
be seen of men. How minute are the ramifications of selfishness !
Seventh Month 10th. — Oppressed with discourse on politics. I wish
dear  was more redeemed from it. O, how infinitely-superior is the
kingdom of the Lamb to the kingdom of this world !
Eighth Month 8th.- — Dear George Dillwyn remarked to-day, that an
ancient Friend, a pillar of the church, now no more, used to make it
a practice to consider in the morning, whether he had any concerns of
the church to attend to that day, and when he had settled this point, to
arrange his own business.
Eighth Month 15th. — Meeting. Low, though not without some sense
of good in the forepart, and eminently in the latter. My spirit was
much contrited, and in the view I then had of the inestimable privilege
of being joined to the Lord, my late affliction diminished so much that
I was enabled to bow in resignatian, and I experienced a flow of con
solation which cannot be described in words. Dear Thomas Scatter-
good was there, and excellent in his ministry, also Dear George
Dillwyn. This deserves to be recorded by me as a time of signal
favour. Draw me powerfully, dear Lord, until I am fully united to
thee, let the price be what it may !
Ninth Month 11th. — . Very flat and poor indeed, even to distress;
the language ran through my mind, < The Lord hath forsaken me, my
God hath forgotten me,' yet I resolved to hope on. My faith and
patience are much tried, the reflection that on this day twelve months
I was made desolate, tends to keep me very low. O, this affliction-
how it shakes me!
Tenth Month.— Defended Revelation and Christianity, in a small
paper to be published in the Monthly Magazine."
From the time William Allen commenced housekeeping he was in
the daily practice of assembling his household for fhepurpose of read
ing a portion of Holy Scripture, observing a subsequent pause for
recollectedness of mind, and lifting up the heart unto the Lord. He
makes frequent mention of these occasions, as having proved seasons
of divine favour, and some of them are thus noticed — •
"A gleam of comfort during the reading this morning. — Felt owned

1798. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 31
and comforted in the performance of this act of family duty. — Cheered
by a glimpse of the light of the Lord's countenance. — In a short pause
after reading this morning I felt sweet peace."
He cherished a weighty sense of his responsibility as the head of a
family, and was especially concerned to promote the religious welfare of
all his dependents, watching over them with parental care, and giving
counsel, encouragement, or reproof, with much feeling and tenderness.
In some of his memoranda about this time, he says —
" Examine -more narrowly whether thou art performing thy duty to
every branch of this family, — guard against self-exaltation.
Eleventh Month 6th. — I think I have been instructed not to look for
great things in religious matters, but to go on in the simplicity — to
labour more and moref'to get rid of all reasonings, and the apprehension
of consequences, and to be strenuous in the warfare against that potent
enemy self.
12th. — On fifth-day I breakfasted with J. G. B. and in company with
him, went to Waltham Abbey, to attend Tottenham Monthly Meeting,
held at that place. I was glad I was Jhere, as I trust I felt sensible of
my Heavenly Fathers love, — the remembrance of it has been sweet
all the week. 0 Lord ! when Hie influences of thy love are upon me,
I desire more to be thy servant than to enjoy all that this world can
afford. Twelfth Month. — Low and anxious, but on the whole more sweetness
than last week. At the Monthly Meeting, on fourth-day, I publicly
professed my unity with a proposed visit to the families in it, and had
peace. We want more feeling and less reasoning."
During this year many seasons of deep affliction in the contemplation
of his late loss are feelingly alluded to ; but he gratefully acknowledges
<< some increase of resignation," and mentions, that these words had
been frequently brought to his remembrance, — " It is the will of God."
He afterwards observes, that he was " favoured at times to feel his
soul anchored," and adds, "How emphatic is the declaration, 'We
know in whom we have believed!' "
- He often notices the progress of his dear little girl with much comfort.
The state of public affairs increased his anxiety with regard to busi
ness; but, on one occasion, when much depressed by surrounding
circumstances, he says, "I mentioned my discouragements to Luke
Howard. His remark struck and comforted me, — ' We shall not be
permitted to lose unless it be best for us — this I am firm in the faith
df.' "
> He always felt much interested in the writings of members of our
religious society, and it appeared to soothe and comfort him, when, at
the close of the day, he could, lay aside his cares and perplexities, and
listen to the narration of their christian labours and experience. Jane

32 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1799.
Hamilton, the sister of his late beloved wife, resided with him, and it
was the usual practice for her to read to him after supper. On the 8th
of Twelfth Month, he writes —
" My sister read in John Churchman's Journal, much to my comfort ;
I felt a degree of sweetness and support."
His notices of self-examination are frequent, and whilst thus watch-.
ing over his own spirit, he observes —
"What an important point in education it is to bring up children in
humility : how eminently it disposes the mind for the reception- of the
best impressions !"
He continued much engaged in prosecuting with ardour'the study
of chemistry and natural philosophy, together with medical' science
and mathematics. He attended lectures almost daily, kept very minute
notes of them, and also took his part at the meetings , of the Askesian
Society, where he was often associated with men of considerable talent,
and whose pursuits were, in many respects, similar to his own. He
was frequently engaged with his friend, W. H. Pepys, of the Poultry,
in the investigation of science ; and towards the latter end of the year,
he says —
" I am making great progress in chemical experiments — fused platina
with oxygen on charcoal.
Resolved to study pharmacy regularly, making all the preparations
one by one — two or three experiments in a week.
First Month 4th, 1799. — We had a. special meeting of such of the
members of the soup committee as could readily come together, on
account of the great flow of recommendations. Four hundred and
fifty new ones yesterday, and many went away, though we make all
the four boilers, and deliver more than two thousand quarts per day.
We have agreed to send round to those who are most active in giving
recommendations, desiring them lo hold their hands for about a week.
First Month 9th. — Prevented, by an adjournment of the Monthly
Meeting, from attending the soup committee. Church work was heaped
upon me, and I entered on it with fear. ;
19th— Dear George Dillwyn left town to-day. He is going to reside
at Amersham for a time. Our meeting will very much miss him.
20th.— Meeting. Something good hovering over, though disturbed
with wandering thoughts. Reiterated efforts should be made, to repress
the activity of the imagination, and though we may be frequently foiled,
we must not give up, as it would be death to leave the field.
21st.— Entered perpetual pupil at Cowper's lectures at the hospital.
25*A.— Vespers fervent-requesting to be enlisted in the Lord's
service, on any terms.
26th.— My mind was sensible of the presence of good, this morning,
before I arose— renewed my covenant. O, how I pant for a state of

1799. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 33
greater enlargement! My soul longs for a little of that liberty enjoyed
by the children of God !
30^. — W. H. Pepys and I froze four ounces of quicksilver with the
muriate of lime and snow.
Second Month. — Freezing experiment with W. H. Pepys, and we
attempted to freeze fifty-six pounds of quicksilver. I am not quite
sure it was all solid, though some present seemed to think it was.
6th. — Entered perpetual pupil to Haighton's Physiology. After his
lecture, Went to Cooper's — Wounds of Arteries, — extremely over
done." It was his usual practice to give in a few Words a "review of the
past week." Of this, he says—
" I think I experience a little more firmness in what I conceive to be
right. May I also experience an increase of holy fear!
Second Month 19th. — A lonely walk, in which, with many tears, I
poured out my sorrows before the Universal Father. My spirit was
brought into much tenderness, and I trust the good presence of the
Lord was, in some degree, felt. My precious Mary came before me
very fresh. I longed for a union with her beloved spirit, even though
she is released from this probationary state, and I remain fettered in an
earthly tabernacle.
21st. — Low as usual on waking, but a few sweet touches from, I
beHeve, the divine hand made me whole, and excited great thankful
ness. I do believe that the everlasting arm is at times underneath for
my support, even when I may scarcely have strength to believe it ; but
0, my faith and confidence are exceedingly shaken at times ; a resolu
tion nevertheless, possesses my soul, never to let go if I can possibly
help it.
Intense application to business — at home all day.
Third Month. — If lam preserved from falling a victim to the world,
its knowledge, its honours, and its friendships, I shall be inclined to
consider it a miracle of mercy. 0, that my feet were permanently
fixed on the sure foundation, even Jesus Christ !
First-day. — Flat, but less anxious than sometimes. Meeting. Ima
gination active, yet some feeling of good."
In the beginning of Third Month there is a notice of attending the
Physical Society at Guy's, and on the 23rd, he says, they had " Davy's
Paper on Mental Influence ; the debate was desultory."
The review of. a week states, that —
" Study was suspended by a press of business ; attended, however,
four Anatomical Lectufes,^two Surgery, there being no more this
Week, — one Physiology, prevented attending both by a sale, and the
Physical Society at Guy's."
¦ A later week gives the following attendance of lectures :
Vol. I. 3

34 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1799,
" Anatomy, six; lectures ; Physiology, two ; Surgical, three ; Chronic
Diseases, one. ' . .
Fourth Month. 2nd.— Assisted in forming the British Mineralogical
Society. 9tA.— Askesian. J. Fox's paper discussed. Rather an interesting
evening. W. H. Pepys present for the first time, and made some
experiments on oxygen gas and charcoal.
Fifth Month 24th.— I was appointed a correspondent member of the
Meeting for Sufferings for Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, J felt afraid
to refuse, lest I should be doing wrong.*
¦ Seventh Month 6th.— The bill for abolishing the Slave Trade in the
district of Sierra Leone, was lost in the House, of Peers last night, by
a majority of seven."
Seasons of deep depression continued^, at times, to cast him down
very low, but he was again and again comforted with a sense of his
Divine Master's presence, and revived with the manifestations of his
love, vouchsafed both immediately and instrumental^. On the 17th
of Tenth Month, he mentions going to Steward street, where he says — <
" I met S. Lynes, and T. Bevington. We had a time of religious
retirement after tea, which was very comfortable, even before anything
was said ; but S. Lynes had an extraordinary communication to some.
present, and addressed me in particular, saying she had felt, as we sat
together, that the gall and wormwood were still in the cup, but that;
this dispensation was permitted to. wean me from temporal attachments,
and to show how little to be depended upon were all earthly comforts,
and that she believed I should yet draw consolation even from my
afflictions and trials, and should drink water from the rock, and honey
from the flinty rock, adding, 'Be thou comforted.' It was truly a
tendering time."
In alluding to another occasion on which she was present, he says,
she quoted this saying of a religious person, viz. "We cannot be too
dependent, but we may be too low."
The Soup Committee was again in operation, and on one of his
days for attending at the distribution, he observes, that he had great
satisfaction in thus serving the poor, and was particularly struck with
the hearty ejaculation of one poor woman, for a blessing on the
" Founders of this." He says, " There was a dismal scarcity of pro
visions, bread fifteen pence the quartern loaf."
* The Yearly Meeting of London, in the year 1675, appointed a meeting to be held in
that city, for the purpose of advising and assisting Friends in cases of suffering for con
science' sake. It is composed of men Friends, under the name of Correspondents, chosen
by tho several Quarterly Meetings. Approved ministers are also members. It was called
the Meeting for Sufferings in consequence of its original purpose. It is considered as a
standing committee of the Yearly Meeting, and to its care is intrusted, whatever may arise
during the intervals of that meeting, affecting the society or requiring immediate attention.

1800. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 35
Of his studies he says, "A grand object with me is to perfect myself
in the study of medicine, also in Latin." In reference to his attend
ance at the Hospital, he writes, " Copied out cases, and attended more
to my mind than I have ever done before."
Many experiments were carried on at Plough Court, not only for his
own improvement, but for Dr. Fordyce and others. In mentioning
having dined with one of his friends who was high in the medical pro
fession, he says, "His sceptical conversation was a great burden to me,
but I told him my mind pretty freely."
" First Month, 1800. — A little more comforted, and on first-day
uncommonly favoured with the feeling of the divine power and love,
so that I could say, ' this is enough,' and so consoling was the certainty
of the origin of it, that I thought I could rest all my hopes here and
hereafter upon feelings such as these. No room for doubt, uncertainty,
or anxiety !
Study: — Engaged in lectures; Physiology, two; Surgery, three.
Hospital given up for three weelfs, on account of the press of business.
Askesian paper, made some progress, viz. — to page 13. Latin con
tinued. Tests:— -Dr. F.'s experiments.
28£A.— W. H. Pepys" making experiments for the new gas, from
nitrate of ammonia, for the Askesians., Lecture, Dr. Bradley. Askesian
Society — many visitors. Tupper and Ibreathed the gaseous oxide of
azote. It has a remarkably inebriating effect.
First Month 31st. — William Dillwyn called to show me a letter,
informing him of the decease of dear Samuel Emlen, who was buried
the first day of the year. There are few men living to whom I was so
much attached, and I believe his regard for me was not of a common
kind.* Second Month 20<A.-— Went to Westminster meeting, to attend the
marriage of Thomas Christy and Rebecca Hewlirigs. A time of favour.
After tea we had a precious opportunity of religious retirement, and in
the silent part of it, my poor, tossed, afflicted mind, received strength
to believe that my way would be opened, even in temporals, and that I
should not be suffered to sink : it was more than hope, it was, I trust,
a degree of faith. Dear T. S. supplicated for the company, and par
ticularly for those on whom the divine hand had been laid in affliction
— for those who had been deprived of their lovely companions — 0,
how condescending is infinite love ! Towards the conclusion, dear S.
Lynes spoke in an edifying manner, in short, it was to me a most precious
and consoling opportunity, the divine presence being eminently felt,
bringing our hearts into tenderness. It was a- time not soon to be for
gotten by my o!ear sister and me.
* Vf. A. had many affectionate communications from Samuel Emlen, after the return of
the latter to America, and in a letter from Elijah Waring, written under S. E.'s roof, he
says—" Samuel frequently remarks how near thou art to him."

36 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1800.
I find self very strong, manifesting itself in a disposition to speak
freely, and enlarge upon what may tend to exalt it.— A degree of self-
abhorrence in the retrospect. O, that my efforts might be solely directed
to the investigation of truth, both in the moral and the natural world !
0 Thou, who art the source of perfection, favour me with a little of thy
all-sufficient help ! for without thee I am worse than weak.
21th.— Experiments on respiration.— Present Astley Cooper, Dr.
Bradley, Allen of Edinburgh, the two Lawsons, and J. Fox. We all
breathed the gaseous oxide of azote. It took a surprising effect upon
me, abolishing completely, at first, all sensation ; then I had the idea of
being carried violently upward in a dark cavern, with only a few glim
mering lights. The company said my eyes were fixed, face purple,
veins in the forehead very large, apoplectic stertor, &c. They were all
much alarmed, but I suffered no pain, and in a short time came to
myself. Second Month 28th. — I subscribed for life to the Royal Institution.
Third Month 4th. — Attended the opening lecture there.
16fA.-^-Provisions uncommonly dear; beef one shilling per pound.
Fifth Month 15th.— Lecture, which I left to go to the Royal Society,
to which I was introduced by Nairn. Heard part.of Herschell's Paper
read, on the Reflexibility of the invisible Rays of Heat.
Sixth Month. — The prospect of the times is gloomy indeed ; scarcity
increases alarmingly, bread, seventeen pence half-penny the quartern
loaf, and almost all kinds of provisions extremely dear.
16th. — Dr. Fordyce called, offering to have me made a Fellow of
the Royal Society."
Part of this month was spent at Sandgate, with his sister, Jane Hamil
ton, and his little girl. He often took the latter with him in his walks,
and he says, « My loss comes over me far more at these seasons, than
when occupied with business." But when engaged, one fine after
noon, in looking at France, with the telescope, &c, he observes — " A
little gleam of comfort found its way into my poor heart." On the
26th, he writes —
" I attended Folkstone meeting, and was rather comforted there. The
worthy Joseph Elgar, now aged and much enfeebled with a paralytic
stroke, testified to the goodness of the Lord, whose power had sustained
him in divers distressing seasons, and continued to support him now :
adding, that he had felt the visitations of divine love, and his cup over-"
flowed. It affected me much. I walked home with him, and staid
about half an hour.
Seventh Month 14th.— Resolved, before I enter upon a subject, to
spend a few minutes in endeavouring to abstract my mind from all
Other objects but that immediately before me, to take ten minutes ora
quarter of an hour, every morning, to consider what may be my duty

1800. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 37
for, the day ; to fix my plan, adhere to it strictly, and endeavour to
dismiss all further anxiety.
Seventh Month 26th. — Occupy every spare minute for 'standing
jobs,' not infringing upon the fixed time for certain things. Much
time is lost in desultory indecision ; when this comes on, catchup the
first thing that comes to hand of those that must be done."
The 23rd of Eighth Month he mentions that his dear father was taken
very ill, and on the 7th of Ninth Month he says —
" My dear father expressed his belief that he should not recover,
saying, that he had for some time felt as if he were drawing to a close.
He said, he was resigned to the divine will, and hoped that, if it pleased
the Almighty to take him, it would be in < the accepted time.' It affected
us all very much. There has been a degree of sweet unity of spirit
among us to-day. My dear father acknowledged that he had been
blessed in his children. All my tenderness and affection for him seemed
to be stirred up. Though- in deep distress, I have, at times, some feel
ing of my Heavenly Father's love. These touches, however slight,
and, like the crumbs that fall from the table, are received with eager
thankfulness, and just serve to keep me alive. Verily, mine is the cup
of bitterness ! Sanctify it, 0 Lord ! I beseech thee, that all this suffer
ing may not be in vain ! if thou but smilest on my closing moments, all
my afflictions will be forever forgotten, and my wearied soul shall find
rest in thee;"
Job Allen continued to get gradually weaker until the 16th, when it
became evident that he was near his close; but though his sufferings
were at times great, he continued calm and resigned, and his son
says —
" I sat by him, with my arm round his head, until half-past four
o'clock in the morning, when he expired without sigh or groan. My
dear mother bore it much better than I expected ; my poor mind was
exceedingly agitated, and I was engaged in mental supplication. After
we had given some vent to our sorrow, we sat down together in silence
in the parlour, and I was favoured with a little of the light of the Lord's
countenance, which, to his poor dependent creatures, is indeed a great
mercy. 0, here is the anchor in all our afflictions ! On coming home
and retiring to my chamber, I had a fresh sense of his all-sustaining
goodness ; my prayers seemed to be answered, and somewhat of an
evidence was felt that, as it regarded my dear father, all was peace ;
yet nature will feel. His affection to me has, for some months, appeared
stronger than ever."
4-bout this period considerable alarm was excited by the riots in
London and Southwark, in consequence of the high price of corn.*
* During the latter part of the year 1801, and throughout most of the succeeding year, u.
great degree of privation and distress prevailed in this country, through a deficiency in ths

38 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE

1800.

W. A. mentions that the enmity of the mob seemed particularly levelled
at Friends, who had been most unjustly charged with being the Cause
of this calamity, yet it does not -appear that any actual injury was sus,
tained by them; and though, at the interment of his father's remains,
which took place at Whiteehapel, the rabble proved very disturbing;
it was less trying on the whole, he says, than mighthave been expected.
The next day he remarks, " Rioting subsides," and adds, " The Lord
Mayor, H. C. Coombe, has behaved with remarkable propriety, "not
one life has been sacrificed yet on this trying occasion."
Tenth Month 3rd,— At the Meeting for Sufferings* the calumnies
against Friends, on account of the dearness of corn, were 'weightily. .
considered, and a committee was appointed to draw up a paper on the
subject for the public.
Eleventh Month 5th. — Monthly Meeting. The clerk resigned his
office, a committee was appointed to choose another.
7th. — Meeting for Sufferings, which was attended by Friends from
several counties, deputed to assist in revising the Book of Extracts. ,
. 8^.— Meeting at ten— felt comforted in sitting with Friends : amidst
all my trials, weaknesses, and imperfections, I am encouraged by my
feelings in attending in my place on this occasion, and a hope is raised
that this sacrifice of time, will not be suffered to operate materially to
my disadvantage.
Twelfth Month. — The sittings of the Committee closed on seventh-
day morning, after having continued more than three weeks ; I have
not missed one of them, though such close application is rather trying,
and I have often attended under heavy depression. Some were seasons
of comfort and refreshment, wherein my hope and confidence were
strengthened. Saved about twelve hours this week by early rising.
10th. — Monthly Meeting : I was made clerk to our Monthly Meeting;
I forbore to refuse on principle, being afraid of doing wrong, but my
natural disposition would have been gratified by a strenuous opposition
to the appointment.
11th. — Soup committee, not over till past nine, and a trying one ; I
gave way too much to the spirit of debate, and hurt myself by it, as I
felt uncomfortable in settling accounts with myself at night."
supply of corn } partly arising from the circumstances of the war with France, but esper
cially from an extremely'wet summer and autumn, in consequence of which the harvest
proved very unproductive, and bread rose to a price unprecedented in the annals, of our
history j other provisions being also exceedingly dear.

1801. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 39

CHAPTER II. t
.1801 — 1805. — Death of his Brother Jonathan — Studies Botany— Attends Davy's first Lec
ture on Galvanism — Great Distress amongst the Poor — Case of H. Barnard — Letter from
Professor Pictet— Delivers Lectures- at Plough Court — Elected Fellow of the Linnean
Society— Lectures at Guy's Hospital — Becomes President of the Physical Society there —
Second series of Lectures at Guy's — Botanical Excursion — Death of Jonathan Middle-
ton — Lectures at the Royal Institution — Extracts from Lectures — Studies Crystallogra
phy—Visits Cornwall — Descends a Copper Mine — Labours in the Cause of the Abolition
of Slavery — Visits Essex — Cambridge — Professor Farish — Fire at Plough Court — Yearly
Meeting. ,
" First Month, 1801. — Vespers constantly as usual. It is of great
use to endeavour to centre the mind before going to rest."
The^ 1st of Second Month he was again called to partake largely of
the cup of sorrow, by the death of his dear brother Jonathan, who was
a much beloved member of the family circle, and respecting, whom he
thus writes : —
"Deep, deep affliction, on account of the decease of my dear bro
ther Jonathan, which took place on first-day morning, after a trying
illness of two weeks. The social band is broken in upon — there are
few families in which fraternal love is stronger than in ours, and this
visitation shakes me to the centre. I have been, and indeed am, a
child of sorrow.
On behalf of the dear deceased, there is no cause to mourn, he was
in a sweet state of mind, and his supplications were put up in a way
which much affected those around him. He had a sort of foretaste of
the joys about to be revealed, and longed to be released. He went off
about eight o'clock in the morning, aged twenty-four. My dear mo
ther is wonderfully supported under all, but feels this stroke keenly.
0, that I could reach that state, which knows no will but the divine
will, and were . enabled in every thing to give thanks ! My dear bro
ther possessed a remarkably sweet, amiable disposition, and was very
forbearing. The interment took place on the 8th. We had a solemn meeti»g,
and a remarkably solemn time, at the burying ground, Whiteehapel.
The goodness of God towards us was felt in an inexpressible manner
as we stood round thegrave, uniting the hearts of some of us, and, as
it were, giving us a, taste of that profound peace and harmony, which
our dearly beloved brother is now in the full fruition of. When our
Divine Master condescends to manifest himself by the breaking of
bread to our hungry souls, then all doubts vanish, and we are ready to
exclaim, ' Now we believe, for we have heard him ourselves, and know,
that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.' May I never
forget the sensations I then experienced ! How strong ! how clear i

40 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1801.
how sweet the evidence that the immortal spirit was in everlasting
bliss! and oh, how condescending in our blessed Lord, thus to favour
his unworthy creatures ! May we-feel ourselves more and more bound
to him in a covenant never to be broken !
Second Month 16th.— My mind a little more stayed and composed
than usual. Dear Lord ! I do love thee. 0, that thou wouldst draw
me nearer to thyself, that in time and in eternity, I may be sweetly
thine ! In vespers I am sometimes engaged to supplicate, that I may
be made an instrument in the divine hand, to bring others nearer to
the Source of goodness and love.
Third Month 12th.— I went to Walthamstow to begin the plan for a
study of botany^ with Lewis Dillwyn,-<-got through, classes and orders.
Fourth Month 20th.— I attended a meeting of deputies from the
several soup-houses. The state of the poor seems truly distressing.
We came to a resolution to press individual investigation On the com
mittees of the soup establishments. , There is no diminution yet in
applications. . - ;
22nd. — Soup committee. — The report of the committee of deputies
was read, proposing domiciliary visits to the poor. I supported the
measure with all my might, proposing a committee for the purpose, and
offering my name as a volunteer, but did not succeed farther than hav
ing it put on the book and referred for farther consideration.
Fourth Month 25th. — Soup house, to take down the names of some
of the most miserable among the poor, in order to Call upon them.
Went to the Royal Institution, with W. H. Pepys and R. Phillips,
to hear Davy's first lecture on Galvanism. — A most capital one. — He
bids fair to rise high in the philosophical world.
28^.— I went round among the applicants for soup — visited fourteen
— many of them wretchedly miserable ; and I am now firmly of the
opinion that the soup has saved the lives of many.
Fifth Month 2nd. — I introduced myself to Count Rumford to day,
and had some conversation with him in his own apartment at the InstU
tution, about the poor. I endeavoured to stimulate him to set on foot
the plan of dividing the city into districts, in order to lessen the labour
of investigating the situation of the poor, and relieving them.
11th.— A precious sense of the truth of that text, ' The Lord know
eth them that are his.' 0, if we can but build on the sure foundation,
and feel that we are on it, how little shall we care about the opinions
entertained of us by our fellow mortals !
Sixth, Month 1st. — (Yearly Meeting.)— H. Barnard's business came
on.* The report qf the committee on appeals, confirmed the judgment
* This was the case of a minister from a distant part, who came under the cognizance of
the body, in consequence of having promulgated doctrines, not in accordance with th«
New Testament,

1801. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 41
of the Quarterly Meeting. There was a long debate on the subject.
H. Barnard was admitted to hear the judgment read, and made a long
and impressive speech in her own defence.
Meeting again at four. H. Barnard was present, and said she had
little to add to what she said in the morning. The respondents were
then heard,, or rather Joseph Gurney Bevan on their behalf: he was
counsel, and made a most excellent speech. The Quarterly Meeting
of London and Middlesex were prohibited from saying anything, also
the ministers and elders, and almost the whole decision rested upon
the « young men of the princes of the provinces.' I Kings, xx. 14.
Fifteen or sixteen stood up, one after another, to confirm the judgment
of the committee, and so it was settled by the meeting. Never did I
see anything more decisive.
Sixth Month 6th. — May I constantly keep in view the awful close of
all things here, and reflect that every passing day brings me nearer to it.
0, may I labour to know and to perform the divine will respecting me,
and endeavour to promote the happiness and comfort of all my fellow
pilgrims in this probationary state ! This should be the great object of
life. I dare not ask for riches, they have been the bane of thousands ;
but I have earnestly desired to be placed in such circumstances, as that
no revolution of this uncertain scene might disable me from paying
every one his own — this would indeed be terrible.
19th. — Meeting for - Sufferings, on the epistle to the Meeting for
Sufferings, Philadelphia. They are raising a subscription for Friends
here, > on account of the high price of provisions, and have actually sent
one thousand pounds of it. I think they did it under a mistake, as we
are not yet so badly off but that the Society, in general, can take care
of its own poor. But their sympathy is truly cordial.
Seventh Month 3rd. — Meeting for Sufferings. One thousand one
hundred pounds more from America, for the same purpose as the former
thousand pounds.
11th. — A sweet sense of good to-day — and shall I yet be taken into
the fold ? O, that my dross: were thoroughly purged away !"
After having spent a little time in Essex, where botanizing increased
the pleasure of some of his rambles, W. A. says on his return —
"L. Dillwyn and J. Woods came in, and we had a rich feast of
Botany, looking over my specimens. They tell me I have found one
very good thing,— the Juncus acutus.
I was much helped and comforted on fifth and sixth day, and en
couraged to hope that I am measurably under divine notice. I feel
richly paid for endeavouring to comfort my dear mother under her
afflictions. She has been a most affectionate parent to us, and it highly
behoves us to do all we can for her gratification.
Ninth Month. — If ever I was sensible of divine approbation upon

42 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1801.
any thing, I felt it during the reading of the Scriptures, after breakfast,
on seventh-day morning.
Tenth Month 2nd.— Joseph Fox came over this morning to tell us
there was great news, viz: That the preliminaries of peace, between
this -country and France, were signed last night. It appeared to me
almost too good to be true, and in a transport of joy, I ran to Lloyd's
Coffee House, and there saw the letter to the Lord Mayor, signed by
Lord Hawksbury, announcing the fact. A great crowd of- people were
eager to get at the letter, and at the request of some of them, I read it
aloud, but was, so much affected that I could scarcely get through it;
the sudden -burst of feeling almost overwhelmed me. Atjhe Meeting
for Sufferings afterwards, my mind was lifted up in thankfulness, deep
thankfulness, to the Divine Author of all good, for this signal mercy. -
9th. — Meeting for Sufferings— special, on account of the American
Fund. — Wrote off to Philadelphia and New York for an explanation."
The growing estimation in which W. Allen's talents were held, is
apparent from the increased demands upon his time and attention. He
was frequently referred to for chemical analysis, and called upon to
perform experiments which required skill and accuracy, and in various
departments of science, his powers were brought into action. Plough
Court became distinguished as an excellent repository of chemical re
agents, W. Allen having directed his attention to this subject, with great
success. He continued to take his part in furnishing papers for the
Askesian Society, which resumed its meetings in the Tenth Month,
after having been suspended during the summer, and he frequently
alludes to the evenings thus spent, with much interest.
The following letter from Professor Pictet, of Geneva, was addressed
to W. A., from Paris, soon after they became acquainted in England : —
"Dear Sir,
"I take the liberty of recommending to your kind attention, Mr.
Paul, a celebrated artist of Geneva, and a good friend of mine, who is
going to London to undertake a fabrication at large of mineral waters,
such as have already admirably succeeded at Geneva, Lyons, and Paris.
He was so good as to take charge of a book I wanted to forward to
you, that is a new and excellent mineralogical performance of Mr Hauy;
I wish you may think it worth your acceptance, as to its being worth
your perusal, I answer for it ; you will find in it accurate descriptions
of all the fossils hitherto known, and his discoveries in the laws of
crystallization, is a very remarkable instance of the application of
geometry to natural facts and phenomena.
"I have often seen Volta here; he has thoroughly identified galvan
ism and electricity, by a most simple, ingenious, and elegant series of
experiments, about which I wrote lately to our friend, Mr. Tilloch. -

1801. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 43
" Your (and now my) charming collection of chemical re-agents was
exhibited lately, with some other English curiosities, to the National
Institute, here, and the chemical members took particular notice of it.
* "Adieu, dear sir, remember me to your friend, Mr. Howard, and
believe me for ever, yours, Pictet."
About this period W. A. was much engaged in the preparation of a
course of lectures which he proposed to deliver gratuitously at Plough
Court, to the members of the Askesian Society, with other friends who
were invited to attend. On the 3rd of Twelfth Month he writes —
"At seven o'clock I gave my first lecture on Chemistry, Dr. Relph,
Astley Cooper, Dr. Bradley, T. Poole, &c, &c, attended ; there were
about sixty present in all. I got through beyond my expectations, but
I was very low about it before I began."
In opening the course, William Allen made the following obser
vations : —
" Our small society, established in the year 1796, and which has
been conducted with so much harmony and good-will to the present
day, had rather for its object the improvement of its members. in the
different branches of Experimental Philosophy, than any great expecta
tion Of contributing largely to the advancement of science by new and
brilliant discoveries. The original members of it can but feel that the
object with respect to them, is in a great measure obtained ; and if it
has been the lot of some to pursue the subjects which have come before
us, in any particular department, to a greater extent than others have
had opportunity or leisure to do, it seems only a duty which those
individuals owe to their associates, to come forward and offer the fruits
of their investigations, as a tribute to the common stock ; and after the
noble example of my worthy and intimate friend, who has been one of
the main pillars of our establishment, I am stimulated to follow, in a
humbler path it is true, but I trust in one which shall not be devoid of
interest, nor perhaps of instruction. From my professional engagements
I have necessarily a large quantity of mechanical apparatus : this, in
the absence of more important subjects, I purpose gradually to bring
forward in our meetings, and endeavour to give, during the present
session, as complete an idea of the Theory and Practice of Mechanics,
as .my ability and the limits of our time will allow."
Many members had been added to the society since its commence
ment: amongst them was Dr. Babington, who, through life, retained
a warm friendship for William Allen.
The audience-at the lectures so increased, that W. A. says, the room
was completely crowded ; but he notices having "got through much to
his satisfaction," and often mentions the efficient aid he received, in

44 life and correspondence 1802.
preparing his experiments, from W. H. Pepys. On one occasion, he
says —
"Preparing experiments for chemical lecture with W. H. P., who
kindly and zealously assists me : he spent more than two hours here
to-day." He continued to pursue botany, with much attention, during the
summer, and spent several days in botanical excursions, with some of
his friends. On the 16th of Twelfth Month, he says^
"" I was this evening elected a Fellow of the Linnean Society."
He always had some French work in hand, and usually read a por
tion of it every day. He had also made considerable prGgress in
German. Notices several times occur, of visits to persons who claimed
the exercise of his medical skill, and his aid on such occasions was
frequently highly beneficial. It was his great delight to be of use to
his fellow-creatures, and he was enabled, in no common degree, to
accomplish the desire expressed in the following memorandum, written
about this time : —
"I have seen the beauty, and long to attain to that heavenly dispo
sition of mind, that seeks constantly to lender those around us happy.
May I be favoured to guard against pevishness, even when just cause,
or what appears so, is given, and also fo strive against foolish lightness.
Twelfth Month 30th.— I went to the Royal Institution— met W. H.
Pepys there, and spent nearly two hours with Davy. He showed us
a fine experiment of Dr. Wollaston's,. in which common electricity
is seen to decompose water like galvanism. He also showed us the
deflagration of charcoal most beautifully, by connecting two pieces of
chain with wire, one to each end of the pile, and bringing them together.
First Month 9th, 1802. — Joseph Fox invited me to meet Dr. Jenner,
Astley Cooper, &c, at his house, and go from thence to the Physical
Society at Guy's, a paper on the cow-pox being before the society.
10th. — Dr. Babington called to offer me a partnership in his lectures
on chemistry at Guy's Hospital.
11th. — Astley Cooper called in about Dr. B.'s proposition: he is
very earnest that I should embrace it. I consulted J. G. B. about it i
he says that it will deserve consideration.
First Month 12th. — I went with Joseph Fox to Astley Cooper's, at
his request, to talk about Dr. Babington's offer : he strongly urges me
to accept it, stating that it will not take up more time, nor near so much,
as I used to devote to the attendance of lectures. He says it will open,
a wide field for profit, and he wonders at my scruples.
Dear Mary Stacey felt a draught in her mind yesterday to call in and
hand me the word of exhortation, viz., to be on my guard against the
poison of the world's flattery and applause. She also reminded me

1802. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 45
that we were favoured with good in proportion to the solicitude with
which we seek it. — Remember this, 0, my soul ! I believe M. S. to be
a dear servant of the Lord.
16th. — I went to Dr. Babington's, and agreed upon giving lectures
jointly with him at Guy's Hospital. We appointed to meet again to
arrange our plans.
Second Month lSth.^-Rose early — getting ready for experiments at
the Hospital-^I felt distressingly low and anxious-r-gave my first lecture
there, at which Drs. Babington and Curry were present, and Astley
Cooper came in. I got through much to my satisfaction, and appa
rently to that of the class. It began and ended with loud plaudits.
Third Month 4th. — Dr. Babington called for me, and I went with
him to his lecture on the physical properties of water — made the expe
riment of composing water for him at the lecture, the globe being
previously filled with oxygen. It succeeded capitally.
23rd  Pepys and I went to the Royal Institution to Davy's lecture
on galvanism. By means of the trough he showed some beautiful
experiments on the deflagration of inetals— exploded a mixture of hydro
gen and oxygen gases, by galvanism — fired gunpowder, and heated
iron wire red hot. I never saw the theatre so full. Albemarle street
was crowded with carriages.
Fourth Month  The definitive treaty arrived on second-day. Thus I
hope peace is now sealed, but I am afraid it will not be of long dura
tion. The abominable Slave Trade is as a millstone about our necks,
and I firmly believe that national sins are visited in a national capacity.
Fifth Month 6th. — The Askesian Society closed for the season. I
was ordered a written vote of thanks for the lectures. The president
read an excellent address.
27<A.^Lecture at the Hospital. W. H. Pepys rendered me most
essential assistance. I had a tight job to get ready — began a little after
eight — a crowded theatre, one'hundred and twenty at least — showed
the luminous experiments — all seemed highly delighted.
Eighth Month. — Some precious feeling of good" on first-day, under
which my petitions were put up that I might be enabled to love my God
above all, and be united to him in a covenant never to be broken —
that I might make his will and his cause, the primary" object, and the
world and the things of it, only secondary. I saw the necessity of
retirement, that the attention may be drawn off from transitory things,
and fixed upon those which regard our permanent, our everlasting in
terest. It should be our constant endeavour, even when following our
lawful occupations, to make the thoughts of our hearts acceptable to
Him who sees in secret. 0, may I be strengthened to tread the world
under my feet, and keep my eye steadily fixed upon the final close, the
great end of all things here!

4(J LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE

1803.

Tenth Month 13th.— Lewis Dillwyn Introduced me to Dryander, at
Sir Joseph Banks', so that now I may go when I like." --
The lectures at Guy's Hospital, which were concluded for the season
in the Fifth Month, were resumed in the Tenth Month, when Dr.
Babington and William Allen proceeded jointly with the course. On
the 21st W. A. writes —
"I gave my first lecture at the Hospital this season, No. 8 on the
Elements. I first made a little extemporaneous recapitulation of the
particles of matter, &c. The audience received me with plaudits,
which were again repeated at the close of the lecture, andfrom what I
have since heard, they were well satisfied. This is encouraging, as I
am very anxious and fearful."
Notwithstanding the pressing claims of business,' the constant exer
tion necessary to prepare the lectures for Guy's Hospital, three or four
being sometimes given in a week ; and attention to various other pur
suits, connected either with the acquisition of knowledge, or the welfare
of his fellow creatures, William Allen was ever ready to devote a portion
of his time to the service of the religious society of which he was a
member. He was a diligent attender of meetings to conduct the dis
cipline of the society, as well as those for worship^ held both in the
middle of the week, and, on first-day : and he frequently mentions with
comfort, his feelings on these occasions. He experienced the strength
ening effect of retiring to wait upon the Lordj and the gospel labours'
of Friends, both in public and private, were often instrumental to his
spiritual welfare. Their watchful care over his highest interests, is
from time to time feelingly noticed. And on the sixth of Twelfth
Month, he says —
" E. Fry kindly warned me about philosophy, &c, expressing a hope
that it might not injure me in the best sense, and divert me from service
in the society.
Twelfth Month 12th.— I was elected one of the Presidents of the
Physical Society at Guy's Hospital.
16$.— Askesian Society, but left it to attend a meeting at the City
coffee-house, on the subject of an institution for the cow-pox. Dr.
Lettsom, Dr. Bradley, Dr. Pole, &c, were there. They put me upon
the committee."
Many subsequent meetings were held on this subject, and towards
the end of the month, W. A. writes, that he was " much occupied in
endeavouring to establish an institution for cow-pox inoculation^"
He occasionally devoted a good deal of time to drawing, as well as
German, for both of which he had masters; but German gave way a
little to business and lectures.
" First Month 8th, 1803.— I took the chair at Guy's Hospital as
President, for the first time, and was favoured to keep my place as a

1803. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 47
member of our- Society. For this I felt thankful. — What is the smile
and the applause of the world, compared with one beam from thy coun
tenance, 0 my God !
14th. — Hospital lecture, number fifty, and my thirty-third. Galvanism.
I got through remarkably well. The experiments succeeded admirably.
The trough of zinc and copper, made for me by Davy, acted amazingly
well — burnt iron wire, fired gunpowder, phosphorus, silver and gold
leaf, charcoal, &c.
Second Month 11th. — I went to the London tavern, between eleven
ahd twelve, to the meeting on cow-pox. The report of the committee
was read and approved. I am appointed a member of the board of
directors. Tfdrd Month 24th. — Askesian. Pepys's paper on iron, satisfactory.
Then with Woods and R. Phillips to the board of the Jennerian Society.
— Carried the motion for the residence of a physician at the central
house. 29th. — Made temporals give way to spirituals, in putting off my
lecture this morning, on account of the Quarterly Meeting, and was
glad I did, having a favoured time, and a stronger feeling of divine
good, than for a long season. — Dear Lord, make darkness light before
me, and crooked things straight !
T. Shillitoe laid his concern to visit Holland, Germany, and France,
and had the concurrence of the meeting.
Fourth Month 16th. — A botanical excursion, the first this season.
We had a coach for the day, and S. Woods, J. Woods, — Golding,
Abraham Barker, J. Middleton and I went to Harrow to. breakfast.
We then set off on foot over the corn fields, which by the way were
very unproductive, to Morpeth Field after the frittillaria, but our search
was in vain : we however got the helleborus viridis, a scarce plant in
these parts, and the ophioglossum, also the vinca minor, &c. We
dined at the King's Head, Harrow, and set off home at six.
Fifth Month.— This Yearly Meeting has been, on the whole, a time
of divine favour to .me, particularly the latter end of the week ; and
fervent desires have been raised, that the great Master would make me
truly his, and, through his sweet influence, a blessing to those about
me. My trials and sufferings, though hidden from mortals, are known
to him, and I sometimes comfortingly hope that I am not entirely out
of his divine notice. 0 that I may keep the word of Ms patience, and
continue wrestling in the strength from time to time afforded.
Hostilities are now going on-^-fhis is an additional load upon my
spirits. It is uncertain whether Russia will take any part in the present
contest with France, but it appears she is arming.
Seventh Month, 4th. — I received a note from H. Davy, Royal Insti
tution, proposing me to give the popular course of natural philosophy."

48 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1803,,
The following is a copy of the note.
"Dear Allen,
" Our managers have formed a plan of instituting differentjectures
on parts of natural philosophy, in the next season.
" The terms will be liberal. Would you like to deliver in the theatre
of the Institution, the course on natural philosophy, thatyou have given
at Guy's?
" Think about it, and let me know what your feelings are.. I should
have called on you, but I have been ill, and am not yet well.
" I go out of town to-morrow. I am, dear Allen, with very great
regard, yours,
H. Davy."
5th. — I went to the Royal Institution to converse with Davy about
the proposition. I find he was directed to make it by minute from the
board of managers.
1th. — Called on Dr. Babington, who advises me to accept the offer
of the Royal Institution.
10th. — John Dalton of Manchester here at tea — conversed with him .
about the proposition from the Royal Institution to lecture there, he
being one of those applied to.
26th. — In public affairs the cloud thickens. Invasion is fully antici
pated, and government are taking measures to arm the public in general.
The Northern powers seem to look upon this country with an envious
eye, and it is feared Russia, Denmark, and Sweden will join against
us. Great preparations are now making in France. It is said' two
hundred thousand are to be sent over.
Fifth Month 30th. — Great disturbances' in Ireland — Lord Kil warden
and his nephew murdered in the streets of Dublin, and risings in other
quarters. Habeas Corpus suspended, and martial law declared in
Ireland. The Island of Lucie, in the West Indies, taken from the French.
The people in general arming, but government have kindly exempted
Friends. Eighth Month 8th. Royal Institution. Attended a committee of
managers, but concluded on nothing. I was not willing to engage
until I knew more of the plan, so left it till Davy came home."
W. Allen's little girl having appeared to require a change of air, he
took her to the neighbourhood of Margate, where she improved rapidly^
and after staying a few days, he left her there and returned to Lon
don. He says he parted from her with a heavy heart, and adds 
" Precious jewel ! I am almost afraid my affections are too strongly
fixed upon her. Remember, ' He that loveth anything more than me,
is not worthy of me,' said the Master himself."
The review of the following week says —
¦"My mind rather more stayed towards the close of the week. The

1803. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 49
purity of the Christian religion requires that we should constantly labour
to render even all our thoughts acceptable to the Supreme Being : and
if this were the case, our deeds would be more likely to bear the light.
This is indeed a great attainment, but ought to be aimed at.
Ninth Month. — An awful visitation of Divine Providence in the sud
den removal of dear Jonathan Middleton, who was drowned while
bathing in the Thames, on fifth-day. I gave him and Thomas Smith,
(two of the young men at Plough Court) leave to go to the marriage of
John Grubb and Sarah Lynes, at Brentford ; after meeting they were
returning by Kew and Richmond, and at the latter place poor Jonathan
was drowned. The dreadful news reached me while at tea, and the
messenger who came express from Richmond insisted upon it that it
was my brother, and his name was Allen. I scarcely conceived it
possible that any of my brothers should be at Richmond, but sent
immediately to Steward street, and was- soon relieved by the sight of
my brother Joseph. The young men in the shop recollecting that
Jonathan and Thomas had determined to come that way home, our
fears began to fix upon them. My kind friend Joseph Woods, Jun.
accompanied me in a chaise, and we got into Richmond about eight.
My mind, all along, dwelt upon dear Jonathan, and I was pretty much
persuaded that he was no more ; as soon as the chaise door was opened,
I asked the name of the young man, and was answered that Smith was
alive ; the conclusion was obvious, and although I summoned up all
my resolution, my legs trembled under me as I went into the house ; I
was conducted up stairs, where I found T. Smith stretched- on a bed,
nearly in a state of delirium, and two men holding his arms. I en
treated him to endeavour to command himself, as it would otherwise
double my distress, which was as much as I could well bear. His reply
was, in a mournful voice, 'Poor Jonathan's gone! Poor Jonathan's
gone! I could not save him.' This was almost too much for my
feelings, and I thought it would be better on his account to leave
him, so I went into a room with my. friend J. W. ; we sent for the
medical men who had attended at the time. We had retained the chaise,
and having got poor Thomas Smith into it, reached town a little before
eleven. Through the whole of this trying business my mind experi
enced a degree of precious support, which I record with thankfulness,
and pray that it may be continued through all those afflictions which
may yet fall to my lot. The bitter cup of adversity has been largely
my portion hitherto, and especially of late years. May it be sanctified
to me!
With respect to dear Jonathan, I firmly believe there is no cause for
regret on his account ; I believe he was prepared for his great change,
and that his immortal spirit has entered into the joy of his Lord. During
all the years he has been with me I never remember to have heard an
Vol. I. 4

50 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE

1803.

unguarded expression fall from his lips ; he was a pattern of strict
integrity, and a bright example to .the family: .My loss is great; he
loved me with the affection of a child, and mine to him was reciprocal;
he had the care of all my little matters, and was worthy of the un
bounded confidence I placed in him, my companion, my friend, more
than a servant, a brother beloved ! but may I feel ability to say, <¦ Thy
will, 0 Lord, be done!'.
Ninth Month 10th.— Luke Howard kindly undertook to go to Rich
mond and settle matters there ; he returned with the corpse of dear
Jonathan, about four o'clock ; the poor mother came, and a very
afflicting scene it was. Elizabeth Reed came with her.
14th. — Meeting : a solemn time, at least to my feelings. The burial
of dear Jonathan Middleton took place afterwards; a closely trying
time to me, but surely divfne support was graciously afforded in the
needful time. I walked with poor Jonathan's mother. My dear mo
ther was engaged in supplication and testimony, also S. H., we then
left the grave, as it was as much as the poor woman could bear, but the
company staid, and R.Phillips was favoured to address them instructively.
26th.— The alarm of invasion ihcreases-r-the Elbe still blockaded.
Tenth Month 4th. — Went over to the hospital to Dr. Babington's
opening lecture on Chemistry. He lectures only from syllabus,, with
short pencil'd notes.
14th. — I went over to the Hospital in the morning to prepare for the
lecture this evening — very anxious. Gave No. 6, my -first on Natural
Philosophy, Pneumatics, No. 1 — felt master of my subject and got on
comfortably. My first lecture in the new theatre.
31st. — Counting-house, then to the Royal Institution to meet Davy
and the committee of managers, Hatchett, Barnard, Oriel ; they behaved
very politely, and encouraged me to take part in the business. The
interview was very satisfactory ; afterwards looked over the apparatus.
Hatchett invited Davy and me to dine with him at Hammersmith this
day wreek.
Eleventh Month 1th. — Went to the Royal Institution ,to meet Hatch
ett and Davy, and then with them to Hammersmith to dine ; talked
over the subject of lectures, they strongly advise me to take part in
them, and have no doubt of my giving satisfaction.
Eleventh Month 10th.- — Askesian Society, second discussion of Til-
loch's paper on Electricity. An agreeable and instructive evening."
In the review of this week W. A. writes —
" May I never lose the sense of the emptiness of this world's applause,
when'compared with the approbation of the Supreme Being, and may
I be preserved from the inordinate love of science, or of any thing else.
26th.— Very industrious this week in rising early, and improved my
lectures very much.

1804. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 51
Twelfth Month 22nd  Went to the Royal Institution to hear Dal-
ton's introductory lecture ; he appeared too much depressed with a
sense of the audience, but I think he will improve.
First Month 20th, 1804  Lecture at the Hospital, gave No. 60, and
my No. 44, Astronomy, No. 2, and the last of the course. I showed
that the sustaining hand of God is still necessary,-and the present order
and harmony which he has enabled us to understand and admire, is
wholly dependent upon his will ; its duration is one of the unsearchable
measures of his providence. What is become of that dazzling star,
surpassing Venus in brightness, which shone out all at once in 1572,
and .determined Tycho Brahg to become an astronomer? it retained
its brightness about three weeks, then gradually faded, and at the end
of fifteen months was wholly invisible. A similar phenomenon is said
to have caused Hipparchus to devote himself to Astronomy, and to his
vast project of a catalogue of the stars, that posterity might know
whether any changes happened in the heavens. In 1604 another such
phenomenon, though much less remarkable, engaged the attention of
astronomers. Several stars in the catalogues of Hipparchus, of Ulugh
Beigh, of Tycho Brahe, and even of Flamstead, are no more to be
-seen ; they are gone and have left no trace.
24th— -Set off between eleven and twelve for the Royal Institution,
to give my first lecture, introductory, and the general properties of
.matter — felt much at presenting myself before such an audience, but got
on exceedingly well ; Hatchett and Sullivan came to me after the lec
ture, and many expressed their gratification.*
First Month 25th. — Meeting — rather comforted, and these words
seemed to recur to me with some freshness, ' He that honoureth me,
I will honour.' I have earnestly desired to be preserved from doing
any thing which might not be consistent with the profession I am
making." About a month after this date W. A. writes, in a review of the week :
" I hope I have been hitherto favoured to conduct myself consistently
in my public situation at the Royal Institution. May I be preserved,
and never give up my principles, for the empty applause of the world,
which, in a trying hour, will yield no support !"
No pressure of engagements was suffered to interrupt his regular
attendance of meetings for worship in the middle of the week, and he
frequently mentions having experienced comfort on these occasions.
" Fourth Month 30th. — Walked up to the Royal institution, Davy,
&c. out, left a note for T. Barnard in reply to his wishing me to engage
there for another year ; I waived the point till we could have another
interview. - >
Fifth Month 5th.— I have agreed with T. Barnard, if nothing pre-
* He received congratulatory notes from Barnard and Davy. '

52 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE

1804.

vents, to give auother course of lectures at the Royal Institution, in the
spring of 1805, the same as the present.
10th.— Thomas Clarkson came to town on the business of the Slave
Trade; he takes up his quarters at Plough Court. He is writing a
history of our society.
18th.— Hospital, No. 15, {Natural Philosophy), conclusion of the
course." In concluding the lectures for the season, and taking leave of his
audience, William Allen thus addressed the medical students at the
Hospital : —
"As this appears to be the last opportunity I shall have of addressing
many of you collectively, permit me, before we separate, to offer a few
remarks for your consideration.
Several of you having now finished the course of your studies in this
place, are about to enter upon the wide theatre of the world. The pro
fession which you have assumed, is, in itself, one of the most respectable
of which man is capable. Having" carefully studied the nature of our
frame, you have undertaken to soften the miseries to which it is liable.
— May you, though in an inferior degree, endeavour to imitate the great
example of Him, who went about doing good, healing all manner of
diseases! In a world so full of woe, to a noble and generous mind,
the opportunity of smoothing the brow of care, and drying up the tears
of sorrow, are the most gratifying offices which it is called upon to
fulfil. Upon you will the anxious eye of "the maternal head of a
family be fixed, in all the anguish of grief, while the support of herself
and helpless infants is stretched upon the bed of languishing; and if
poverty be added to her affliction, I trust you will rise nobly superior
to sordid views, and find your richest recompense in the approbation of
your own minds — in the sweet satisfaction of attempting, at least, to
diminish the weight of that misery, which, perhaps, from the nature of
things, you cannot wholly remove.
If gentleness of manners, and polite behaviour, be esteemed orna
mental in society at large, it is more indispensably requisite in the
medical character. It is natural for the human mind to associate with
this character the idea of power, and what can be more soothing to
those under affliction, than to meet with power and benevolence com
bined in the medical man ?
I am aware that, in the line of your profession, you will be sometimes
placed in difficult and delicate circumstances, but never, I entreat you,
sacrifice your sense of propriety, your feeling of the eternal obligation
of right and wrong, that on which your present and future peace of mind
depends, to any prospect of sinister advantage. Consider only what
is your duty to do, and leave the consequences to Him who never fails
to approve every honest endeavour to perform it. So will you, in your

1804. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 53
different circumstances, be the instruments of most extensive good 
you will be a blessing to your country, and honoured by those whose
good opinion is of value."
Sixth Month  Wilberforce obtained leave to bring in a bill for the
Abolition of the Slave Trade by one hundred and twenty-five, against,
forty-nine — Majority, seventy-six. But 1 am afraid this most desirable
measure, will be stopped in the Upper House, even, if it gets through
the Commons.
Sixth Month 23rd. — John Norton, a Mohawk Chief from Canada, re
commended by Friends in America, came to lodge with us. He has
some business to settle with government about the lands granted to
them. My mind was preserved pretty calm and centred ; so continue to
help, dear Lord ! and graciously preserve me from bringing reproach
upon thy great cause.
The bill for the Abolition of the Slave Trade was thrown out by the
Upper House, so this millstone still hangs upon the country, but the
abolition interest gains ground."
In concluding his first course of lectures, at the Royal Institution,
W. A. observes —
"In this general outline of some of the departments of natural know
ledge, we have abundant- opportunity to remark the traces of a wisdom,
past human comprehension, in the wonderful.adjustment of'allthe parts
of creation. How exactly are the moving powers balanced among
each other! how admirable the order which results from their equili
brium! The agency of -the supreme intelligence is everywhere dis
played in characters so strong that he who runs may read. Those who
have most closely exercised their faculties in exploring these magnifi
cent works, see the least occasion for exaltation, the least incitement
to pride; while they who know a little, but are ignorant how much
remains to be known, are puffed up with imaginary consequence, and
deserve our pity.
We see that in the works of nature there is ample scope for the ex
ercise of our rational faculties; and limited as these faculties are, they
are strengthened by use, and worthily employed when we endeavour
to acquaint ourselves with as much of the wonders of creation as its
great Author has permitted us to comprehend. As we proceed, new
discoveries reward our search, the sources of intellectual enjoyment
pour an increasing stream of satisfaction upon the delighted mind;
while sensual gratifications, perishable, like their objects, tend only to
enervate the soul, and sink us far below the level of that high station,
which man is called to fill in the scale of created beings. The pursuits
of science, properly conducted, Jend to enlarge our views, to banish

54 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1804.
narrow prejudices, to increase oUr love of truth and order, and- give
tone and vigour to the mind.
Not more distant is heaven from earth, than false philosophy from
the true. A set of wild and extravagant notions is not philosophy,—
though, rin a neighbouring country, they have been dignified with the
name. Those pretended philosophers have gloried in denying the fair
est deductions from reasons—the most obvious truths; but the direful
consequences of this perversion of intellect will long afford an awful
and instructive lesson to mankind.
True philosophy is nothing more than real wisdom, — the proper ap
plication of our faculties directed solely to the discovery of truth,
which brings beauty, order and excellence ; harmonizes the minds of
its votaries ; teaches them to set4a proper value on all the productions
of the Creator, and leads them to feel even for the least of his animate
beings. These will not put one of his sensitive creatures to unneces
sary pain, and, rising from the simple polype and the worm to their
fellow men, will be anxious to employ their knowledge in diffusing
comforts, in diminishing the misery which many have brought upon
themselves; and, on the broad scale of universal benevolence, will
imitate, as far as in their power, '.Him, who is constantly diffusing good.
These are the dispositions of the true philosopher, — this is the temper
of heaven.
In such an age as the present it may be deemed superfluous to urge
the accumulated evidence we now possess, in favour of the fundamen
tal truths we most surely believe, but on the' juvenile part of the com
munity, who are now forming their opinions, and beginning to reason
for themselves, I wish to impress this important consequence, deduci-
ble from the subjects which have passed in review before us,  that in
all the great powers of nature, we observe such marks of contrivance,
such adaptation of cause to effect, and the whole executed by means
so sublimely simple, that we cahnotavoid concluding with Archdeacon
Paley, such designs must have had a designer, and that designer must
be God."
In the review of this week W. A. mentions his labours being con
cluded for the season, both at the Royal Institution and at the Hospital,
and makes the following note : —
» Lectures given this season : — Hospital — First course, forty-six ;
Second course, Chemistry, twenty-six; Ditto, Natural Philosophy ,.fifteen.
Royal Institution, twenty-one ; Total, one hundred and eight.
Seventh Month 21st. — My soul longs for more of the sensible feeling
of the divine Master's countenance and support, that so, I may hold on
my way with firmness, and not only experience preservation myself,
but be useful in my day, to excite others to attend to their best interest.

1804. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 55
Strong desires are at times raised, that I may be favoured to conduct
myself in such a manner as to be a good example to the dear young
people under my care. My prayers are often put up for them, in
secret, as well as for myself."
In the review of the week he says —
" More exertion of mind is necessary, more striving after a state of
acceptance with the Supreme Source of good. We cannot expect to
be conquerors unless we strive, and that not faintly and at intervals,
but strenuously and constantly, then we may expect divine assistance,
and, at the great close, enjoy the promise to him that overcometh."
About this period W. Allen attended a series of conversaziones at
Dr. Bahington's, where Count Bournon gave instruction in mineralogy,
particularly crystallography. A journey into Cornwall afterwards af
forded him an opportunity of pursuing this study under very favourable
circumstances, and of exploring some of the rich treasures of that county
in their native state. His researches extended beyond the surface of
the- earth, and he thus describes his descent' into the copper mine of
Dolcoath, situated a few miles from Redruth. He was accompanied
by Thomas Cock, a young man from Plough Court, who was with him
in this journey, and by two intelligent persons connected with the
concern. After equipping themselves for the purpose in flannel dresses,
&c, and being each provjded with a candle, W. A. says—
" I found the descent more easy and safe than I had imagined. The
opening of the shaft was about five feet square, in which a perpen
dicular ladder, about five or six fathoms was fixed against one side.
At the foot of each ladder was a Very small hole, called a man-hole,
through which we pass to the top of the next ladder. After descending
several of these, some longer, some shorter, we came to a convenient
place to sit down. The whole depth is cut out of solid rock, mostly killas,
and here and there, at different depths, there are long horizontal pas
sages about four feet high, and two or three feet broad, more or less,
which form a communication with different shafts, many of which have
been worked for ore. When we had gone about twenty- five fathoms
we came to the adit, which is a long passage carrying water out to the
lowest level of the valley. At sixty fathoms we came to a spacious
place, formerly containing an immense quantity of ore, which is all
removed, and you see, the bare rock from whence it was cut, to a
considerable height, and in the midst of this cavity there was a vertical
division of rock about three or four feet thick, which had completely
divided the lode, and is called a horse. To this place we kept pretty
dry, but afterwards were much wetted with the dripping of water; we
descended by a series of ladders to the bottom of all, or, sump, one
hundred and eighty-four fathoihs? or eleven hundred feet from grass.
Here the men, were working the copper ore, with iron instruments, at

56 LIFE AND -CORRESPONDENCE

1804.

one end like a pickaxe, and the other like a hammer. Thomas and I
borrowed their tools and knocked off some pieces, which we carried
away as trophies. Having brought down a thermometer I took the
temperature of a stream of water running to the sump, and found it 80°
of Fahrenheit, the air was 77°. I had previously observed the tem
perature above ground, -which was 64°, this probably arose from the
action of sulphur and iron, or sulphur and copper in contact with water.
Almost all the sides of the shafts hitherto seemed large blocks of killas,
but I observed where the water had washed the bottom of the sump, a
fine white quartz with ore in it. We were in a profuse perspiration,
even when sitting ; it was a complete warm bath."
After noticing further particulars respecting machinery, &C, W. A.
says they began to mount, but found it very fatiguing ; however,-resting
now and then, they got up to the long level, one hundred and forty
fathoms from the surface. '
" Here," he observes; " we went along a narrow passage, cut out of
solid rock, I think a full quarter of a mile. We were obliged to stoop',
and in some places crawl. The place was dripping wet, and, at times,
we were considerably above the ankle in mud. It felt very hot, and
respiration was not free. I took the temperature, which was 73° in
water, 75° out. The main lode runs nearly east and west, and under
lays south about fifteen inches in a fathom. We now returned to the
shaft, and mounted, to day. I never Was in such a mess in my life.
We had washing tubs, with warm water, provided, and felt a sensible
enjoyment in getting rid of the dirt. We had just been four hours
under ground.
There are six steam -engines worked upon this mine. Most of the
large mines of Cornwall are now so deep, that they must have been
stopped long ago if the steam engine had not been applied : yet this
noble invention had, at first, many prejudices to surmount."
This journey afforded a fund of interest to his inquiring mind ; the
kindness of his friends greatly enriched his mineralogical collection, and
he also found some botanical specimens to add to his store. He saw
the pilchard fishery, at Ives, in great perfection, and describes the mode
of taking the fish and preparing them for exportation, large quantities
being sent to Italy.
When at Marazion, he says —
"At the sight of the birth-place of my dear Mary, my wounds opened
afresh, but I was favoured, at meeting, to feel somethingjof the divine
sustaining hand, though a sense of my loss sat heavily upon me."
After his arrival at home, he writes, that he felt thankful in being
permitted to return safely with his family, and adds, " I have been
comforted in the sympathy and affection of the mother and near rela
tions of my beloved lost companion.

1805. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 57
The dear child has borne the journey extremely well, and is returned
in good health and spirits."
"Second Month 12th, 1805  J. A. De Luc, that honourable veteran
in philosophy, called upon me this morning, and I was rejoiced in
becoming acquainted with him."
Lectures, both at the Hospital and the Royal Institution, continued
to occupy much of William Allen's time and attention, and he says the
managers of the latter wished him to engage for the two courses of the
following year, which proposition he was to consider of. On the 6th
of Fifth Month, W. A. notices being elected a member of the committee
of the Society for the Abolition of the Slave Trade. He had for many
years been exerting his influence, in various ways, to promote this
great cause. His house had long been the home of Thomas Clarkson,
when that champion of the rights of the negro was engaged in his
benevolent labours in London, and often were their efforts united in
endeavouring to forward the work of emancipation.
In the Sixth Month he accompanied his mother on a visit to their
relations in Essex, from whence he proceeded to Cambridge, where he
says —
" I went to Professor Farish, and delivered to him the letter of intro
duction which W. Wilberforce was so kind as to give me. He received
me very courteously, and insisted on my taking tea with him. He
seems a mild Interesting character. We conversed on the subject of
lectures, and he very properly observed, that it was far more difficult to
lecture satisfactorily to such a mixed audience, as that at the Royal
Institution, than to any other class. He said it was much easier to
give a deep lecture than a popular one, which should also satisfy the
more intelligent part of the audience. He went with me to Professor
Vince's, but he had just left Cambridge. We then parted, as I had a
letter to write before post time. I am to call on him to-morrow, when
he has engaged to introduce me to some other persons : he kindly
invited me to breakfast with him, but that I declined.
Sixth Month 18th. — Called on Professor Farish after breakfast, and
he yery obligingly devoted the morning to me. He showed me the
botanical garden, and the lecture room in it, where he delivers his
lectures on the mechanical arts, and Dr. Wollaston those on chemistry.
I was particularly pleased with the large space allowed Lor working the
furnaces, &c, and carrying off the fumes. The want of this space, he
considers as-a great defect in the Royal Institution — this should be
attended to, in building the Theatre at the London Institution. He
employs a small steam engine to work his mechanical apparatus, and
sometimes has a water wheel overshot about four feet diameter, and,
for this purpose, has a wooden cistern, which contains another, at one

58 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1805.
end, about eight feet high. He ha? an ingenious contrivance of a
syphon to supply the wheel, and, by means of which, he can make the
fall of water greater or less. He has a great variety of things, which
he can fit either to the axis of the flywheel of the steam engine, or to
the axis of the water wheel. Great part of his apparatus is calculated
to teach the principles of mechanics. He delivers alt his lectures extem
pore from the syllabus, except about ten minutes, or a quarter of an
hour, of the introductory lecture.
We visited the public library, to which no stranger is admitted, unless
accompanied by a Master of Arts. I dined with Professor F., and met
Stephen's wife (who is the sister of Wilberforce,) and her son.
19th.— A botanical walk to Gog Magog hill.
20^.— Breakfasted with Professor Hailstone at Trinity College, then'
went with him and Professor Farish to see the Woodwardian/ collection
of fossils: dined at the public table, Trinity, with Davis, the Vice-
Master, Hailstone, Porson, &c. &c: spent the afternoon very agreeably
with many of them.
The Vice-Master is a very good botanist, and showed me his hortus-
siccus, which is in excellent preservation : took tea with him, and
supped at Professor Farish-'s.
21st. — Set off in the Telegraph coach from Cambridge, and arrived
at home about four o'clock."
After alluding to this visit, in the review of the week, Willam Allen
writes —
" To deny ourselves of gratifications, which we believe to be incon
sistent with the divine will concerning us, and to refrain from them,
through love to our Heavenly Father, and a fear of offending Him, is
the great work to which we are called, but which .we shall be unable
to accomplish without the assistance of his Holy Spirit : and this is to
be earnestly and reverently sought for— herein consists the christian's
strength. Eighth Month 10th. — I went to dine with W. Wilberforce — met
Charles Grant and a gentleman named Christian, both Members of
Parliament ; also John Norton. Wilberforce is a remarkably pleasant
man." '
William Allen previously mentions that John Norton (the Mohawk
Chief) had received an unfavourable answer to his memorial  "It
appears," he says, " that they have been intriguing against him in
Canada, and, I have no doubt, have stopped all his letters. They say
he was not authorized, — that he came to this country in a clandestine
manner, &c." On the 14th, W. A. writes —
" I walked with John Norton to Harley Street, Cavendish Square,
where we took an affectionate leave. I felt much at parting with him :

1805. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 59
he is certainly a very extraordinary man : with great mental powers, he
combines sweetness of temper and a dignified calm. He is to sail from
Portsmouth to Quebec, in the Mercury frigate, Captain Pelly."
At the beginning of this month William Allen had a serious alarm,
from the occurrence of a fire at Plough Court, which threatened the
destruction of the premises.* It was occasioned by the breaking of a
bottle of strong nitrous acid, the fumes of which rendered it very diffi
cult to approach the place with water ; great exertions were, however,
used, and with the assistance of many friends, together with the fire
engines, it was got under in about two hours. The combustible sub
stances near it greatly increased the danger, and he says —
" When I consider the nature of the accident, our escape seems little
short of a miracle. If it had happened, in the night, there appears no
probability that our lives would have been saved."
In again alluding.to the subject he says —
"About nine o'clock it was got under, and I trust I may say, provi
dentially, though I felt myself unworthy of such a favour.
I was much depressed on seventh-day with the apprehension of inva
sion. May we, who from conscientious scruples dare not endanger
the life of man, even in our own defence, seek more and more to rely
in simplicity upon Almighty Power, and for an establishment upon the
sure foundation, which, from the beginning of the world to the present
hour, has supported all those who-have trusted to it — and whether we
stand or fall, may we keep a conscience void of offence ! It requires
far greater firmness and magnanimity to bear an injury than to resent

CHAPTER III.
1806— 1809.— Public Affairs— Marriage with C. Hanbury— Bill for the Abolition of the
Slave Trade passed — Society formed to promote the Civilization of Africa — Minute of
the Yearly Meeting on the subjeet of the Abolition — Experiments on the Diamond — >
Dissolution of Partnership at- Plough. Court — Journey to the North of England — Elected
Fellow of the Royal Society — Letter from his mother — Commencement of Labours with
J. Lancaster — Letter to John Norton — Letter from De Luc — Capital Punishment Society
— Letter to a Friend — Chemical Experiments at R. G. Children's — Correspondence on
Lancaster's Concerns — Various Business.
» William Pitt died on the 23rd of First Month. The loss of this
man may be considered as a national one. News is arrived from India
of the death of the Marquis Cornwallis.
Third Month. — New difficulties in public affairs. Great heat excited
in America against this country, on pretence of our pressing their sea
men, &c.
Bonaparte taking possession of the Kingdom of Naples.
The Cape of Good Hope surrendered to the English.

60 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1805.
1th.— Attended the Committee for the Abolition of the Slave Trade,
at Wilberforce's house. T. CJarkson and I went together. About
thirteen present, among whom were Lord Teignmouth, W. Smith, -
Babington, &c, &c. It was deemed not advisable, at present, to do
more than stimulate the friends of the cause, all over the country, to
use their interest with Members of Parliament, to support the motion
which Wilberforce intends to bring forward in about a fortnight." ^
In the review of the week, William Allen thus mentions his marriage
with Charlotte Hanbury, of Stoke Newington :—
Fourth Month 26th.— This week has been a most important one,
having entered into the solemn covenant of marriage with my endeared
friend Charlotte Hanbury, under, I trust, a precious degree of evidence
of divine approbation. May I be enabled to fill up the measure of
those duties which now devolve upon me!"
The marriage took place at Devonshire House meeting, on the 22nd
instant. After this period his family, which had also the addition of his
wife's sister, Anna Hanbury, divided their time between Plough Court
and Stoke Newington.
Fifth Month 11th  -Qn taking up the newspaper I was rejoiced to
find that the Slave Trade Restriction Bill had passed the Upper House,
— for it, fifty-two y against it, eighteen. ,
21th. — Yearly Meeting. Met at eleven, consideration of the subject
of the Slave Trade — a comfortable sitting. Towards the close J. W.
expressed his sense that a blessing would rest on the heads of those
who are advocates for them that are ready to perish, &c. ; and that
though this nation, for its manifold iniquities, might be made to partake
of the dregs of the cup of trembling in the general calamity, yet, to the
class which he had addressed, the cup would be sweetened.
Sixth Month 2nd. — The Yearly Meeting closed on seventh-day. It
has been a strengthening and confirming time, and we may truly say,
that, with all their weaknesses, and imperfections, the Lord loves his
people. 11th  The subject of the Slave Trade is again revived in the House
of Commons, by C. J. Fox, and Lord Henry Petty. An important dis
cussion took place this evening, when Fox moved the following reso
lution, or to this import — That the Slave Trade is inhuman, unjust,
impolitic, and ought to be abolished, and that the House would take
speedy and effectual means for that purpose. It was. carried by one
hundred and fourteen to fifteen — majority ninety-nine. This wTas fol
lowed up by a motion to address the King, to correspond with foreign
powers, in amity with this country, to act in concert with us in this
good work. Fox and Lord Henry Petty did themselves great honour
in this business. I believe their zeal originated from principle.
Fox has obtained leave to bring in a bill, which has also been read

1805. OF WILLIAM ALLEN.' 61
the first time, prohibiting the dealers in human flesh from fitting out
more vessels than are now actually employed in this abominable traffic,
for this season.
Sixth Month 12th. — Went to the Royal Institution. I was introduced
by Charles Hatchett ; saw Cavendish and Dr. Maskelyne. A curious
paper was read from -Robertson, a surveyor in Jamaica; stating that
there was no change in the variation of the magnetic needle in Jamaica;
that the variation had, for one hundred and forty years past, and pro
bably for ages before, been 6^° east ; he also stated, that there were
two or three other places in the world where the needle remained
quiescent. 28th. — The House of Lords has agreed with the Commons in their
resolution on the Slave Trade, much to their honour. The numbers
were — for it, forty-one ; against it, twenty; majority, twenty-one 
Glorious !
C. J. Fox is very ill, I think alarmingly so ; the loss of him at this
time would, in my opinion, he seriously felt by the country."
William Allen took an excursion into Wales this summer, and was
absent with his family for several weeks. Soon after his return he writes —
" ' What I say unto you I say unto all, watch,' were the words of
the Saviour of men, and I feel the importance of the injunction.
Tenth Month 10th. — The funeral procession of the late C. J. Fox
took place to-day. He died whilst we were in Wales. ,
26^.- — A great victory obtained by the Prussians over the right and
left wings of the French army, sixteen thousand prisoners and six thou
sand slain. The Christian must mourn over these victims of ambition,
but the. work of blood seems only begun ; a horrible shock must soon
take place, and whether Europe is to be subjugated to the French or
not, a little time will probably decide. The main strength of both
parties has not yet been, tried, or at least, the accounts have not yet
reached us.
Parliament is dissolved, and the new members are to be returned on
the 15th of Twelfth Month. A great opposition is expected in York
shire, and I am much afraid Wilberforce will be obliged to resign. I
spent great part of seventh-day afternoon with R. Phillips of East
Street, T. Clarkson, and J. Smith, in writing and sending off letters on
his behalf.
H. Thornton, a steady friend to the cause of Abolition, is opposed in
the borough. We are endeavouring to influence our friends in his favour. .
Eleventh Month 1st. — In my^solitary walk from Newington, my
mind was occupied in reflecting upon the shortsightedness of human
beings, with respect to the great events which are taking place in the
world. Great, indeed, is the privilege of those, whose minds being
stayed on God alone, can remain calm and tranquil through all the

62 / LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1807.
dispensations of an unerring Providence, resting assured that the Judge
of all the earth will do right. 'Happy is that people that is in such a
case, yea, happy is that people whose God is the Lord !'
3rd  The contest given up for Yorkshire, so Wilberforce comes in
without opposition..
The Prussians are defeated with great loss. The French have
reached Berlin.
29th  News this morning that Hamburgh is seized upon by the
French, and Britishproperty confiscated.
Twelfth Month 11th. — Askesian Society— first meeting this session.
A proposal to incorporate the British Mineralogical Society with it. < A
committee appointed by both societies.
18<A. — Askesian Society. Report of the Committees received, and
the two societies united ; after which W. H. Pepys and I went to the
Royal Society. Davy's paper upon decomposition by galvanism, was
read. 20th. — About twelve o'clock, went to Pepys's laboratory, and began
our experiments on charcoal and respiration — made charcoal from six
different kinds, of wood.
The King of Prussia, though so greatly humbled, refuses to agree to
an armistice.
1807 — This year, like the last, opens with a gloomy prospect of
public affairs. Bonaparte has made an insurrection in Poland, and is
there himself.- He intends to make it a kingdom dependent, upon him.
He has intimidated the Turks, and is advancing on the Russians. We
are now pretty much shut out from the continent.
First Month Q5thi^-Rea.dmg the manuscript of T. Clarkson's pro
posed work on the History of the Abolition of the Slave Trade. I think
it excellent, and that it will be highly useful as an incitement to
virtuous exertion in every good cause.
Second Month 10th. — The abominable Slave Trade is falling at last.
The Bill for its extermination, passed the second reading in the House
of Lords on fifth-day night, , or rather sixth-day morning. For it,
one hundred ; against it, thirty-six ; majority, sixty-four ! A glorious
triumph !
On sixth-day night it was committed, and the Blanks filled up with
1st of First Month, 1808, but np more ships to be fitted out after Fifth
Month next. 0 Lord! bless the supporters of this righteous cause.
13th.— To Pepys at eleven o'clock— at work on carbonic acid^
burnt about four grains more of box-wood charcoal in oxygen— a most
satisfactory experiment.
14th.— To town by eight o'clock coach. Hospital— my first lecture
on caloric. Counting house, &c. To Pepys— burnt diamonds in
oxygen gas— a famous experiment, and very satisfactory.

1807. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 63
I have spent a great deal of time this week on the business of the
Abolition of the Slave Trade, and have strong hopes that the measure
will succeed. — It has passed the Upper House and is gone down to
the Commons.
24th. — The young men from my house came home from the House
of Commons this morning, at five o'clock, and brought the glorious
news that the Bill for the Abolition of the Slave Trade passed the
second reading by two hundred and eighty-three ; against it, sixteen! !!
Majority, two hundred and sixty-seven.
28th  Went to Pepys — continued our experiment — burnt seven
diamonds, weighing four grains.
Third Month 6th  I received a note from Davy, stating that hewas
ill with a sore throat and fever, and requesting me to give a lecture for
him to-morrow.
1th. — Royal Institution at eleven o'clock. Gave a general lecture
on the principles of electricity, though under very difficult circum
stances, as the audience had been given to expect new discoveries. I
was however very politely received." >
In addition to their scientific association, Davy had a strong personal
regard for William Allen, and when writing to him on one occasion,
respecting a chemical commission, he says —
"I hope you are now quite well — pray take care of yourself, for
your own sake, for the sake of your friends, and for the sake of the
world." " Third Month 13th  Mary Pryor and Mary Alexander, now en
gaged in religious service in our Monthly Meeting, visited my dear
Charlotte, the child, and me, this morning. My precious Charlotte
was encouraged to follow the example of her Worthy aunt (H. Plum-
stead, just deceased), in dedication to the great cause of truth and
righteousness. Dear Mary was also addressed, and Mary Pryor stated
her belief, with respect to us, that neither heights nor depths, &c.
would ever be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in
Christ Jesus our Lord. It was a consoling and a humbling season,
and we were refreshed together.
25th  Meeting — small but comfortable. To Committee on Aboli
tion at Wilberforce's. The Royal assent given to the Bill for the Abo
lition of the Slave Trade this morning. This was one of the last acts
Of the ministers, who delivered in their seals almost immediately after.
This change is a public calamity.
Fourth Month 3rd. — Settled the plan of arrangements for the chemi
cal leetures at the Hospital, with Drs. Babington and Marcet. We
have now associated Dr. Marcet- with us.
14th.— Went with W. B. to the meeting of the Friends of the Civi-

64 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE

1807.

lization of Africa, at the Freemasons' Tavern, Great Queen Street.
The Duke of Gloucester was in the chair. Wilberforce made a speech
after the Duke had opened the business. Lord Spencer also said he
was happy in having an opportunity of stating his feelings on the great
question of Abolition, and regretted that his long and severe indisposi- •
tion had prevented him from doing it in his place in Parliament. Ros>
coe, of Liverpool, made an excellent speech; also Owen/Chaplain to
the Bishop of London, and William Smith. The latter did himself
great credit, and never stood higher, or so high, in my opinion as tnis
day. But for him, Clarkson, who has done more than -any other indi
vidual, would have been left out in the vote of thanks. A society was
formed to promote the civilization of Africa, to be called ' The African
Institution.' The Duke of Gloucester accepted the office of President ;
he is a fine young man* Thanks were voted to Wilberforce, Gran
ville Sharpe, the Royal Duke, and T. Clarkson. It was, a most satis
factory meeting — several bishops were there."
The warm interest which William Allen ever manifested in the con
cerns of Africa, and his untiring efforts to promote the welfare of her
degraded children, induced him to devote a large portion of his time
and energies to the affairs of this society, of which he became one of
the directors.
He mentions Dr. Babington having wished him to be introduced at
Sir Joseph Banks's, previous to his name being proposed at the Royal
Society, and on the 25th of Fourth Month he writes —
" Went to Dr. Babington's and met Pepys, and we went together
to Sir Joseph Banks's ; I was kindly introduced by Earl Morton — got
back about eleven.
Fourth Month 28th — Parliament is dissolved.
Fifth Month 23rd — Yearly Meeting. The minutes of the,. Meeting
for Sufferings were read, and a minute was made expressive of thank
fulness to the Almighty for the Abolition of the Slave Trade. The
following is the substance of it : —
( We are inclined to express our thankfulness for an event which
concerns not us only, but incalculable multitudes of our fellow-crea
tures, our fellow-possessors of the faculty of reason, our fellow-objects
Of the redemption which comes by Christ, we scarcely need name the
Abolition of the Slave Trade. We view it as one of the most import
ant acts of public national righteousness, which ever dignified the
councils of any government; and our minds have been directed in
secret prayer to the Almighty Parent of the universe, that he may be
pleased to regard this kingdom for good ; and direct its future councils
to such further acts of justice and mercy, as may promote his glory, in
the harmony of his rational creation.'

1807. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 65
J. W. afterwards knelt down in supplication. A heavenly time, in
which thanksgiving ascended from this large assembly as with the voice
of one man.
Sixth Month 11th — The first part of our paper on Diamonds was
read at the Royal ^Society. My friend W. H. Pepys, is also put up as
a candidate for a Fellow.*
Wilberforce and Lord Milton are elected for Yorkshire.
Seventh Month 4th  Began experiment on respiration, with Pepys.
llth.- — The Russians dreadfully defeated, and an armistice con
cluded," Arrangements had for some time been in progress for separating the
concerns at Plough Court, from the laboratory which had been removed
to Stratford ; William Allen proposing to take the establishment at
Plough- Court, and Luke Howard the laboratory. On the 19th of First
Month W. A. says, " Signed-the circulars about the separation of the
two concerns," and on the 18th of Seventh Month he writes, "Luke
Howard andi signed the dissolution of partnership."
In the course of this summer, he and his wife, with her sister Anna
Hanbury, and- his daughter, went to attend the General Meeting at
Ackworth, and. from thence On a tour to the Lakes of Cumberland ana!
Westmoreland. His friend Luke Howard met him in the north, and
they ascended together some of the loftiest mountains in that direction,
measuring the height of them with a barometer, and afterwards working
out their] observations,'1 which, on comparing with other sources of
information, gave most satisfactory evidence of the accuracy of their
calculations. When at Hitchin, on their way thither, W. A. says —
" We went to meeting at eleyen. The remains of Rudd Wheeler
were interred previously, and we had a precious heavenly meeting.
Mary Pryor spoke in the ministry, and Elizabeth Wheeler in supplication.
The interval of silence between this and the end of the meeting, was
crowned with such a soul-sustaining evidence of the presence of our
Holy Head,. as I have rarely experienced, and for which I felt humbly
thankful. Ninth Month 5th. — On fourth-day evening we were favoured to
return in peace from our long journey, and found every thing apparently
well. May we be properly thankful !
The public mind is. in great suspense, respecting the event of the
expedition intended lo prevent the Danish fleet from falling into the
hands of Bonaparte. The Continent of Europe seems completely at
his feet, and America is highly inflamed against us. How all this will
* The result of the.valuable researches of William Allen and his friend, WJ H. Pepys,
on carbon and carbonic acid, were printed in the Royal Society's Transactions, and excited
much interest in the scientific world.
Vol. I. 5

66 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE

1807.

terminate must be left, but I seem increasingly convinced, that the less
our religious society mingle in the politics of the world, the better. Our
part is to stand still, humbly trust, and even suffer, if permitted, in the
support of our peaceable principles.
12^.— An unsuccessful attempt upon Buenos Ayres. Nearly one
thousand of the English killed and wounded— they are obliged to evac
uate all South America on receiving their prisoners.
19th.— The British have taken Copenhagen, but only mean to take
possession of the eighteen sail of the line, and fourteen frigates, with
the naval stores. Great damage is done to the city, and many of the
inhabitants are killed.
Began Algebra with John Hodgkin. Took my first lesson on fifty-day.
Tenth Month 11th. — A comet has appeared this week.
Eleventh Mont h.— Louis the XVIII., as he is called, has taken refuge
in this country. It seems that some, if not all, of -the Danish ships are
coming in.
Uneasy at having answered an impertinent and insulting note rather
too sharply. I feel too great a quickness in resenting injuries, or at
least too much of the spirit of resentment on such occasions. Mofe
of the patient and suffering spirit of our Holy Pattern is wanting. — May
I be concerned to seek after it !
13th. — Dined at the Freemasons' Tavern, about five o'clock, with
Davy, Dr. Babington, &c, &c, about eleven in all. — Instituted a
Geological Society.
I understood from Davy that the Council of the Royal Society would
have voted the gold medal for our paper on carbonic acid, had only
one person been the author, but they did not know how to manage it
with two. It is however satisfactory to find that they thought it de
served one.
Eleventh Month 16th. — Went to the Royal Institution to see Davy.
— Pepys went with me. He showed us his new experiments on the
decomposition of potash and soda. From the oxygen, or zinc end of
a combination of troughs, pure potash was decomposed, oxygen driven
off, and a new substance produced, in little globules, which has the
properties of a metal, except that its specific gravity is only sixteen, or
thereabouts. The globule explodes and ignites in contact with water,
and, absorbing oxygen from it, returns to the state of alkali. One part
of this new substance amalgamates with, and fixes, forty-eight parts of
quicksilver.. Pepys and I concluded we would cheerfully have walked
fifty miles to see the experiment. Here is another grand discovery in
chemistry.' Portugal has shut her ports against us, and it is said, our Ministers
are about to issue a proclamation, declaring all France and her depen
dencies in a state of blockade.

1808. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 67
20th.— Dr. Babington called to inform me, that I was last night
unanimously elected a Fellow of the Royal Society, and I afterwards
received a regular notice from Davy, the Secretary.
Our Ministers have ventured on the measure of blockading all France
and her dependencies. How this will be taken by America, time will
manifest. Thus things are becoming more and more awful.
22nd., — In my own room, writing a little piece on a religious
subject. 26th — Tea at W. H. Pepys's. First meeting this season of the
Askesian Sdciety. Set off about half-past seven for Dr. Babington's,
then to the Royal Society, where I was admitted a Fejlow. Sir Everard
Home, the surgeon, kindly introduced me, and acted as master of the
ceremonies. Twelfth Month. — Russia has declared against us.
H. Davy dangerously ill in a fever.
13th. — Finished my little tract on the ' Importance of True Re
ligion.' "
In the review of a subsequent week, he says —
"Had some satisfaction in composing a little piece for publication,
which I hope may be useful.
Bonaparte gone to Italy.
The Prince Regent of Portugal and his court, with forty sail of ves
sels, and sixteen thousand persons, gone to the Brazils. The French
have taken possession of Portugal.
Declaration of war against Russia. Sir Sydney Smith blocking up
a Russian fleet in the Tagus.
Great uncertainty respecting the part which America will finally take.
H. Davy recovering.
1808. This year opens with a deeper gloom even than the last.
We are now at war with almost all the civilized world, except America,
and it is highly probable that that power will also be added to the list
of our enemies before long.
Thus it seems, as dear George Dillwyn expressed some years ago,
the divine determination to humble this country ; but, O, that mercy
may be remembered, even in the midst of judgment ! ,
The planters in the Island of Jamaica have made a violent clamour
against the abolition.
H. Davy has had a relapse.
First Month 4th. ^-1 saw poor Davy, who appears much reduced, but
I hope he will do at last.
8th. — Dr. Marcet called to see me attempt the decomposition of
potash after Davy's method. Used my four troughs. Fifty plates, each
of four inches, succeeded completely.
12th. — Walked to the Royal Institution, had the satisfaction to see

68 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE

1808.

Davy up" and dressed for the -first time since his illness. , Called at
Somerset House and put my name to Pepys's paper.
23rd.— The British have taken Madeira to hold for the Portuguese.
28^.— Askesian Society, thence to the Royal Society, to give W.
H. Pepys my vote, and had the joy of seeing him elected a Fellow,
went to tell him of it after the meeting was over."
Soon after this period, W. A. writes thus, to John Griscom, of New
York, a character noted for benevolence and philosophical research-:—
"The discoveries of Davy occupy much of our attention, but his
progress has been greatly interrupted by an alarming fever, which had
nearly deprived the science of" the present day of one of its brightest
ornaments; he is now, however, finely -recovered, and prosecuting his
researches with ardour."
" 30th  J. Rennie called, and I was introduced to his acquaintance
by Pepys. - - '
Much sweet consolation this week in the sensible feeling of divine
good, under which strong desires were raised that I might experience-
greater purification of heart — I am at times abundantly sensible of the
want of it. Though my secret petitions are often put up for my ser
vants, I believe I must not be contented with this, but take courage,
as opportunity offers, to open my mind more freely to some of them on
religious subjects.
I continue to be comforted in my plan of reading the scriptures to
them. Second Month 13th. — Our dear child is seized with the measles,
which is cause of anxiety, though no unfavourable symptom has been
yet observed.
18th. — The dear child is recovering fast. To the Royal Institution:
Davy was present for the first time since his illness. A paper by Reid
of Ireland — Geological.
Third Month 9th. — Went to Dr. Babington's, to attend a committee
of the Geological Society.
26th. — Took Pepys with me to- the African Institution, Freemasons'
Tavern, about four. The Duke of Gloucester was there. — The meet
ing was over about six o'clock, and we dined in the great hall on the
anniversary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade. The Duke of Glou
cester was President, and the Duke of Norfolk, the Bishop of Bath and
Wells, the Bishop of Durham, and a great number of the. nobility,
members of Parliament, &c, &c, were present: the great hall was
quite full, I think there were between four and five hundred ; we ffot
away about a quarter-past nine.
Fourth Month 8th.— Dinner— T. and J. Clarkson, T. Coleridge,
&c, &c. Coleridge is one of the most eloquent men in conversation
that I have met with:

1808. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 69
An artist in this country has- found, that by suddenly compressing
the air in the cylinder of a condensing pump, he can light common tin
der and even fire gunpowder.
12^. — Luke Howard went with me to Basil Montague's, Lincoln's
Innr , Met Frederic Smith there, and agreed to join a little society
formed to endeavour to diminish the number of capital punishments.
Every thing, however small, which we do under a sense of duty,
and with a desire that it may be acceptable to the Supreme Being, and
every thing we patiently suffer as a permission from him, tends to nou
rish the spiritual life.
30th. — A Revolution in Spaih, by which the Prince of Asturias is
made King, and his father is said to have voluntarily resigned.
Fifth Month. — Very low and poor this week — but little . feeling of
good. May not the -cause be a too great absorption of the mind in
outward things ? I have, perhaps, heen too anxious about our expe
riment and paper for the Royal Society. I have, however, met with a
strong check from the indisposition of my lungs, which renders it im
prudent to proceed at present."
His pious and affectionate mother was tenderly concerned, lest his
love of science and the pursuit of knowledge, should lead him -away
from objects of higher importance, and, in addressing him on this sub
ject, she says in one of her letters —
" Thy talents, my beloved child, if rightly directed, would tend to
spread heavenly knowledge, and'to extend the government of the Prince
of Peace., Oh! how I long that the Most High would anoint and ap
point dedicated sons to turn the attention of men to their greatest good,
and arouse them from their beds of ease before the solemn sound goes
forth,-' Time shall be no longer.' If one soul is of more value than a
world, how does it behove those to whom the two or more talents are
entrusted, to occupy them in this great work. He, who has. loved
thee from thy earliest youth, has called thee to love him above all, to
dedicate, thyself to him> to surrender thy all to him, to be made use of
as he shall ' direct. The reins of government should not be in thy
hands, but in his, to turn thee into the path he may in future appoint,
and out of what thou, as a, man, wouldst have chosen for thyself. . Ah !
my dear, it is not the strength' of natural affection which leads me to
say thou wast not intended to spend all thy time in earthly pursuits,
but through submission to the operation of that Power which creates
anew, thou art designed to lead the minds of others both by example
and precept, from earth fo heaven. ,. I believe it maybe said of thee as
was said to, Peter, 'Satan hath desired -to have thee that he may sift
thee as wheat,' but I humbly hope that the same Advocate will plead
for1 thee, that ' thy faith fail not.' " '
On another occasion she writes :—

70 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1808.
" I entreat thee again to consider the necessity of setting thyself
more at liberty in future. Thou art too much absorbed in study, my
beloved child, for however innocent it may be, yet, like the' doves in
the temple, it fills up a place in the temple of thy heart, which ought
to be otherwise occupied, and dedicated unto the Lord, in whose
hands thou wouldst become an instrument to promote the knowledge.
of pure Christianity. Come, my beloved, if a right hand or a right eye
be called for, give it up— the Lord loves a cheerful giver, and he will
restore thee an hundred-fold."
" 19^.— Yearly Meeting. The answers to the queries were finish
ed — an excellent testimony from Wales was read, concerning Job
Thomas; I hardly ever heard a document of the kind equal to it. The
reading of it made a great impression upon the meeting. This poor
Friend had been, for several years, in such a state of suffering as is,
I believe, rarely equalled ; he could not stir hand or foot, and when it
became necessary for the assistant to move either, even but a few
inches,, he suffered exquisite pain, yet he was favoured to endure all
his sufferings with uniform patience and resignationj and even to re.-
joice amidst his great tribulations.
21st. — Experiment with W. H. Pepys suspended, on account of my
cough and the Yearly Meeting, but I have made considerable progress
with my fair copy of the paper. Pepys and I went up to Davy with
it on seventh-day ; he finds it hard work to give up" his favourite idea
of the absorption of azote ; he however seems, though reluctantly} to
yield to the evidence of our experiments; this is quite as much as we
could expect, seeing it overturns almost all his experiments on this
subject. Sixth Month 4th. — News that the Spaniards have risen and defeated
the French army which was marching to Madrid.
18th. — At Dr. Babington's at twelve, arranging the minerals for the
Geological Society, with Greenough and Dr. Laird.
24th.~J. Lancaster called, and I had a conference with him."
The attention of many enlightened and benevolent individuals had
for some time been directed to the admirable arrangements of Joseph
Lancaster for affording instruction to the juvenile population on scrip
tural and comprehensive principles, combined with simplicity and eco
nomy. His operations were commenced in a shed on his father's
premises, but by the liberality of his friends, he at length procured
rooms capable of accommodating 1000 children. J. L. says, "The
second building I owe to the benevolence of the Duke of Bedford and
Lord Somerville, who appeared to be sent by Providence to open wide
before me the portals of usefulness for the good of the poor."
William Allen, in mentioning the first visit he paid to this school,
says—

1808. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 71
"I can never forget the impression which the scene made upon me.
Here I beheld a thousand children collected from the streets, where
they were learning nothing but mischief, one bad boy corrupting an
other, all reduced to the most perfect order, and training to habits of
subordination and usefulness, and learning the great truths of the gos
pel from the Bible. The feelings of the spectator, while contemplating
the results which might take place in this country, and the world in
general, by the extension of the system thus brought into practice by
this meritorious young man, were overpowering, and found vent in
tears of joy."
Joseph Lancaster had for some time been involved in great pecu
niary difficulties, partly in consequence of the extended sphere of his
labours, and partly from fhe jealousy and opposition of those who
could not unite in any measures, to promote general education, which
were founded on the principle that the Holy Scriptures should be the
only religious book taught in the school. He had, however, many
firm friends and supporters, amongst whom were his sovereign, George
III., and several members of the Royal Family. The late Duke of
Bedford was also one of his earliest patrons ; he visited these schools
in their -infancy^— he saw the important bearing of the system upOn
society at large, and, with, a liberality which ever marked his connec
tion with the Institution, as well as that of, his family, took the plan
under his special protection. Ina letter to W. Allen written at a sub
sequent period, fhe Duke thus describes his first introduction to the
scene of J. Lancaster's labours : —
"It was at Christmas,. 1802 or 1803, (I think it was the latter,) that
I was invited by my. friend, Lord Somerville, to visit the school of a
humble, but industrious Quaker in the Borough. I acceded with
pleasure to his proposal, and went with him to the school of Joseph
Lancaster. We passed the greatest part of the morning there, and I
was so well pleased with the simplicity and utility of the system, that
I instantly became a subscriber, and have continued to give his later
and more enlarged sphere of education, my humble but earnest support.
Lord Somerville was a favourite servant of his sovereign, George III. ,
and he interested his Majesty in the welfare of those schools. You are
well aware of the frequent interviews witb which the king honoured
Joseph Lancaster, and" what passed at those interviews. I am sure I
need not repeat to you the very great encouragement which the king
always gave to Lancaster."
After speaking of an approaching meeting of the friends of liberal
and general education, at which the Duke of Sussex was to preside,
the Duke of Bedford says —
" I can only lament the infirm state of my health, which prevents my
attending this meeting, for I should have been most happy to find

72 LIFE -AND CORRESPONDENCE

1808.

myself once more by the side of his, Royal Highness, fighting in the
great cause education."
In a subsequent letter to William Allen on'this subject, he says—
"You and I profess different religious creeds, yet we both wish for
the education of the. children of the poor, on the broad basis of religion,
and a knowledge of the Scriptures."
In Joseph Lancaster's extremity, in the year 1808, he at length
yielded to the solicitations of his friends to resign his affairs into the
hands of Trustees, and in describing the position- of the concern at this
juncture, William Allen says —
" Divine Providence raised him some powerful friends, the principal
of whom was Joseph Fox, a surgeon and dentist of Lombard street,
London, a man abounding in the best feelings of the human heart, and
at the same time possessing undaunted courage and perseverance in
every good work. He, seeing that the great cause was on the brink
of ruin, though worthy of the support even of the government of any
country, with a liberality rarely paralleled, not only brought the powers
of his energetic mind, but his property also to its rescue.
Lancaster's creditors were clamorous ; there were writs upon writs
out against him, when Fox made an arrangement for the final settle
ment of all claims, by selling out funded property of his own to the
amount of two thousand pounds, to satisfy the most urgent demands,
and made himself responsible to the remaining creditors for four
thousand more, in the faith that when the merits of the system should
be publicly known, means would be provided for liquidating the debt.
William Corston, then a straw hat manufacturer on Ludgate Hill, who
had been the friend of Lancaster in the still earlier periods of his work,
had the courage to accept hills, drawn upon him by Joseph Fox, for
between three and four thousand pounds, at six, twelve, and eighteen
months' date, in favour of all the creditors ; and shortly after, a com
mittee of six persons, including Fox and Corston, being formed, loans
were obtained and subscriptions raised, so that the great work was
carried on with spirit; and those bills, 'accepted in the faith,' were
regularly paid as they became due."
The Committee consisted of— John Jackson, M. P., Joseph Fox,
Joseph Foster, William Corston, Thomas Sturge, William Allen.
In a report of their investigations respecting the state of the family,
&c, they remark —
" To the honour of a baker in the neighbourhood to whom there was
a considerable debt owing, it must be mentioned; that when a degree
of surprise was manifested at his having given so large a credit, he
replied, ' The good which Mr. Lancaster has done to the poor of this
neighbourhood is such, that as long asT have a loaf left, I will give
the half of it to enable him to continue such beneficial exertion."

1808. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 73
Much time and labour were required in the prosecution of the great
work in which they were engaged. William Allen undertook to pre
pare a regular set of books, and to enter the accounts, which was indeed v
no light task, and in writing to Joseph Foster, he says —
" I have been labouring as hard as ever. I did in my own concerns
in unravelling matters, and I have the satisfaction to inform thee that
our waste book, journal, and ledger, are all posted up, as far as the
materials permitted. I have raised between fifty and sixty heads in the
ledgerf which I believe will include all our present subjects." — For
many years he recorded all the minutes of the committee with his own
hand, and he observes, — " This engagement has taken great hold of
me, for I have distinctly seen the importance of its bearings."
It required an extraordinary effort to raise funds for the liquidation
of the immense debt with which the concern was at that time encum
bered, but the committee met with much kind co-operation and support,
ahd in a letter to David Barclay, of Walthamstow, respecting it, W. A.
says-r- "Thy kind note was an additional evidence of that zeal for promoting
every thing that offers a prospect of general good, for which thou hast
been so long "distinguished. ¦ The concern in which we are engaged is
a heavy one, but we are not disposed to shrink from any reasonable
trouble, and if the great work of placing the means of instruction within
the reach of the poorest of the community be accomplished, we may
indulge the pleasing reflection that we have not lived in vain."
His dear friend, Joseph Fox, had been the chief means of leading-
William Allen into this field of labour, and in writing to him soon
afterwards, he says —
«< I believe, my dear friend, we are engaged in a work which, whether
it succeed to our wishes or not, will in the retrospect afford us solid
satisfaction, and, I -rejoice in the opportunity of joining thee as a fellow-
labourer. No great and important object was ever attained without considerable
exertion, but when we are associated with those we love, as I firmly
believe is the case in the present instance, we may perhaps adopt the
lines of Cowper : — ^And one in heart, in purpose and design,
Gird up each other to the race divine.' "
Joseph Lancaster at first evinced no small apprehension respecting
the interference of Ihe committee : their kind and disinterested assistance
was, however, calculated eventually to counteract this feeling. During
William Allen's stay at Sandgate he wrote the following letter to J. L. : —
"I felt inclined to address a few lines to thee, if it were only to ex
press the sympathy I feel with thee in thy arduous undertaking, which
I trust, with the blessing of Providence and the exercise of common

74 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE

1808.

prudence, will succeed to thy heart's desire. Be assured, my dear
friend, that neither myself nor any of the committee wish to interfere
further than, appears absolutely necessary for the attainment of the object
thou art so laudably pursuing. We desire, as much as the nature of
the concern will admit, to labour with and for thee, in private. We
entered into it merely from a sense of its importance, and to assist a
meritorious individual ; and not from any little feeling of vanity in being
known to patronize a work of general utility. I believe thou wilt always
find us superior to feelings of this kind, and, indeed, if we had pos
sessed them, they would not have been a sufficient inducement to
undertake such a load as this is.
As the money will be advanced in confidence in the care of the com
mittee, we feel strongly bound to keep regular accounts, but we must
depend upon thee for the items, as without them, every thing will be
in utter confusion, and we shall be quite discouraged. I am sure thou
wilt see and feel the importance of it as the work advances, and also be
quite convinced that our wish for the minute details of expenditure, does
not arise from the slightest suspicion of thy honour and integrity, but
solely from our experience in matters of business, and knowledge of
the world, convincing us of the vast importance of clear and correct
accounts." In replying to a letter from Joseph Foster, referring to some of the
difficulties, they had had to encounter at one of the committees, W. A.
says— " Fox states the difficulties, but, at the same time, is very confident
that they may be got over. With regard to myself, I was convinced,
before I engaged in the business, that the prudent management of J. L.
was the first and great object ; if this is happily accomplished there is
no doubt but that every thing else will naturally follow, and the cause,
in every point of view, is of so much importance, that it is well worth
no common degree of pains and attention;; but we must be firm in
prosecuting our views of what appears to us right, and at the same
time treat him as tenderly as possible. We have a delicate subject to
handle, but I trust that the sincerity of our intentions will, in time, be
blessed. I have written to Lancaster by this post. I do not think we
have entered into the work altogether in our own will, and humbly trust
that we may be made instrumental in doing much good ; the promise
of reaping was to those who faint not. I have often been very thankful
in having such a coadjutor as thou art, and know of no one with whom
I could have so cordially united, in this business."
Three years subsequent to the date of these letters, Joseph Lancaster
says, in his published report —
"Into the hands of a few friends, now constituted my trustees, I have
committed my financial concerns for the last three years; and during

1808. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 75
that time they have conducted all my affairs with the greatest good to
the poor, by enabling me to spread the knowledge and practice of the
plan in the country. By superintending my financial concerns, public
and private, in my absence, with liberal sacrifices of time and attention,
as well as advances of money, every thing is now happily brought to
that state of maturity, which will lead to the hope of- public support to
a system, which has already spread ih part over the land, and may yet
make a more extensive progress. And, however inadequate I may be
to express my gratitude for the generous and disinterested assistance I
have received from them, in the maintaining and prosecuting the arduous
Work in which I have been engaged, I trust that a generous and
enlightened British public will grant them that co-operative assistance,
which the benefits of a national education, and their disinterested
philanthropy, so richly merit."
On the formation of a school society, which immediately succeeded
these arrangements, William Allen became treasurer. For several years
after his acceptance of this appointment, his advances were frequently
very heavy, and were made under circumstances which necessarily in
volved risk of loss ; but his devotion to the Object, his anxious desire
for the improvement and elevation of the labouring classes of society,
and his unshaken belief that the divine blessing rested on the work,
enabled him cheerfully to sustain a burden which would otherwise have
been insupportable. In his arduous labours the hearty co-operation of
his dear and valued friend Joseph Foster, of Bromley, upon whom, for
a long series of years, a large share of the weight of this institution
devolved, was a, great encouragement to him, and strong were the ties
of friendship which ever after united these truly benevolent and excel
lent men.
William Allen received several letters from John Norton, the Mohawk
chief, after his arrival in America, and in answering them, he says—
"I am, glad to hear that many of the Indians abstain from the use
of ardent spirits. I hope their example will be increasingly followed,
and that' this point will be regarded as of great importance. They
should also be taught to consider, the Great Spirit of Infinite Power,
that he is goodness itself, and has a great love for man; that he is
constantly present, observing all our actions ; that we ought always to
endeavour to do what is pleasing to him ; that he wishes all mankind
to live as brothers ; that he is pleased when they do good to one another,
and is displeased when they hate or injure each other; They should
be made acquainted with the character and offices of Jesus Christ, that
it is his good Spirit operating in their hearts which influences them to
do the will of God ; that by him we become reconciled to the Father,
and thus he is the Saviour of men ; that we all of us naturally have
bad inclinations, and, as we yield to them, become in a state displeas-

76 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1808.
ing to God. This would open the way for them to understand the
scriptures, and I am fully persuaded that the more the vital parts of
religion are insisted upon, the greater would the progress of these poor
people be in civilization.
Excuse me, my xlear friend, thou hast doubtless anticipated all this,
but in my opiniqn these simple but important truths should, in tlie first
place, be impressed upon uncivilized man.
I should be gratified to know what attempt has been made to instruct
them in reading, and to what extent they have been prevailed upon to
cultivate theirlands. Are the seeds sown ? and have you got any more
cattle ?
If thou shouldst again be chosen as their representative to- our
government, be sure and come over with full powers. Thy old
quarters at Plough Court are still at thy service, and I shall be much
disappointed if thou take up any other."
The reply which John Norton -addressed- to W. A. is so excellent
that we think extracts from it merit insertion, and maybe perused with
instruction by many who have been placed by Divine Providence in
circumstances incomparably more calculated to inspire and cherish
correct and Christian sentiments. He, says —
"Having a strong desire to communicate with you, the distance
between us obliges me to take this cold method of conversation. "—
After stating some of the difficulties he had met with from intrigues
and opposition, he observes," There has been great rumour of war in
this country for some time past. When will the day arrive that all
men shall cease from strife, and regard each other with brotherly love,
and reflect and consider that they are created by one God, and saved
by one Redeemer ? When we review the history of ancient times, we
perceive that those He permits to be the instruments of his vengeance
on earth, He finally punishes. Perhaps the o"ay is not far distant when
the desolater of Europe shall meet his doom."
" Sixth Month 30th. — Royal Society with Pepys : a very agreeable
evening. There was a paper from Davy on the earths, containing in
formation from Berzelius of Stockholm, on the decomposition of ammo
nia by galvanism, showing that it also has metallic properties."
The connection between Galvanism and Electricity was a subject
which had engaged much of William Allen's attention, and his old
friend De Luc, being particularly interested in the investigation of
electrical phenomena, a correspondence took place between them, on
the result of their experiments.
The latter, in addressing W. A. about this time, says —
" My Dear Friend,
" You may justly be surprised not to have any answer to your kind
letter; my apology for that silence will be in general, that I zmold

1808. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 77
and grown very weak in muscular faculty, by repeated illnesses in winter;
and that I have so much work upon my hands, that I can only write
indispensable letters.
You know my geological undertaking: I have finished an elementary
work, sent to France for publication, and I am inspecting the transla
tion into. English. I am in part, and ought to be wholly, employed in
the reduction of my geological travels, which also are translating into
English ; this alone would account for my having no time to write to
my friends.; but this is not all, and I eome fo the point.
I was interested by the electrical experiment you were so good as
to> show me, the same that I had found in the Abbe Haiiy's lectures
on the positive effect of zinc; 'quite contrary (I thought) to experiments
which I have published ; and as I think galvanism, in its connection
with electricity, one of the principal branches of experimental philoso
phy, leading to meteorology and to general chemistry, the subject has
not ceased these two last years, to intrude into geology with me ; and
at last, by a long series of experiments, during which, with all the rest, I
could not write to you. I have found the knot of that riddle, and of
all the process of the galvanic pile, by the discovery of many new
electric phenomena.
This is, dear friend, all that I can tell you, but I was to tell it you,
as I would not that you heard from the public, what you had a right
to hear from me. I tell it you the moment that my pen is free, and the
next moment it will be wholly employed in geology. Late yesterday
evening I finished a paper for the Royal Society, containing that series
of experiments, and of their immediate conclusions, for the theory of
the galvanic pile. jMy paper will, I hope, be this morning in the hands
of Sir Joseph Banks, but I do not know when it will be read.
I shall be very glad to hear of you, and with best wishes for you
and yours, I remain, your sincere friend, De Luc."
In the translator's preface to the Elementary Treatise on geology,
here; alluded to, the writer says —
" The results of Mr. De Luc's long and laborious researches have
supplied an additional proof in support of revealed religion. He has
made it appear that the very facts upon which those systems seemed
to rest, which assign an indefinite antiquity -to our present continents,
confirm, on the contrary, in the most satisfactory manner, the chrono
logy of Genesis ; and he has successfully traced ihe striking analogy
that subsists between the great volume of nature, and the sacred page
of revelation."
In replying to the notices' of J. A. De Luc's varied labours and
researches, W. A, thus addresses, him—
"While I sympathized with my much respected friend, under the

78 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1808.
pressure of bodily indisposition, I could but admire that In spite of the
combined attacks of gout and rheumatism, he was ardently prosecuting
those researches which, through a long course of years, have instructed
and benefited mankind. May a firm reliance upon Him, whose cause
thou hast endeavoured to advocate against the infidels of the present
aud former days, be thy happy experience, and may a sense of his
goodness render the evening of life calm and tranquil!"
Seventh Month 1st.— Basil Montague, Thomas Furley and B: M,
Forster, R. Phillips, F- Smith, J. G. Bevan, and Luke Howard, dined'
with me to converse on the subject of our little- society, when several
resolutions were agreed to, and we have now taken a regular form.
Its title is, 'A' society for diffusing information on the subject of pun
ishment by death.' They are to dine with me again on second-day,
the 10th, when S. Woods is to join us, and for the next six months
are to dine at Plough Court on the first second-day in the month, in
order that we may be in time for the publications: B. Montague is to
open a communication with Sir Samuel Romilly, and it appears as if
we should go on with spirit."
In a letter to one of the members of the committee on this subject,
ahd also in reference to a sentiment expressed in conversation, that
" departure from truth was not only warrantable, but our duty, in cer
tain cases," W. A. replies as follows : —
"I rejoice in having been thought worthy to associate in such a
cause, and with such company. There is so great a pleasure in every
attempt to do good, that the attendant feelings afford a species of sub
lime enjoyment. With the views we possess, however, they must rise
still higher. 'If (says Dr. Johnson) thou doest good to man, as an
evidence of thy love to God, those joys which are the foretaste of heaven
shall be thy reward upon earth.'
I am willing to believe, that the difference of opinion between us,
upon the subject of truth, consists more in words than in any thing else.
The question is, not whether truth is lovely and of divine origin —
not whether our lives should be regulated by it — not whether it be
calculated to secure the happiness of mankind. On these points I
conceive there can be no question between us ; but ask me whether,,^
be allowable to depart from truth, to- answer particular purposes, and
I shall answer, no. He, who has declared himself the God of Truth,
and that deceit and falsehood are his aversion, can never, in my opinion,
have rendered the latter necessary in the intercourse of his creatures.
His system, as revealed in the sacred writings, is complete without it,
and as well might we attempt to reconcile light and darkness, as truth
and its opposite. We find in the Bible, that one of the recommenda
tions of the Lord's people was, they are ' children who will not lie,' and
then follows, ' so he was their Saviour.' I am always alarmed when I

1808. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 79
see the symptoms of that false philosophy, (unhappily too much acted
upon at the present time,) whose avowed maxim is, that ' the end
justifies the means:' think what would become of society, if it were
universally adopted, ,and it certainly is so, in a degree, wherever we
set up our limited conceptions of what may be useful, as a sufficient
warrant to depart from that line of rectitude, pointed out by Infinite
Wisdom, for the government of his creatures. In this case there would
be no standard of right, and every man would be at liberty to adopt his
own. Let us, dear  , earnestly endeavour to render all our actions
acceptable to. the Divine Being, and, depend upon it, we shall not go
far wrong. We cannot plead ignorance of his will, since, in addition
to the sacred writings, he has promised to assist with his Holy Spirit,
those who humbly apply to him for aid. With the assistance, then, of
Infinite Wisdom, and the protection of Infinite Power, what ought we
to fear? I remain, with sincere regard, &c."
That this letter1 did not produce any unfriendly feeling, on the part
of the individual to whom it was addressed, is apparent from the fol
lowing sentiments "contained in a letter, written by him, to W. Allen,
some time afterwards: —
"I shall ever think of you with the dearest affection. Whether our
society continue or separate, I trust that, through life, you wiU think of
me, with some of the affection which I feel for you."
"Seventh Month 18th.— New modelled Our paper on respiration, last
week. This is the third time of writing it over. It went to the Council
of the Royal Society on fifth-day. They have sent us their thanks, and
ordered it to be printed.
The settlement of Sierra Leone is given up by the Company to
• Government, and it is fixed upon as the central point for the diffusion
of knowledge on that vast continent.
19th. — Had a conference with Basil Montague, on the subject of
capital punishment. He has communicated with Sir Samuel Romilly,
and found that hewas much delighted with the idea of having coadjutors
in this great cause. We are to go to work immediately in diffusing
information on the subject.
30th. — Spiritual refreshment at meeting on fourth- day. My attention
has been turned to the subject of christian charity, and I have seen the
necessity of strong guard against hastily condemning or censuring our
brethren. We are too apt to form partial judgments, when we do not
allow ourselves time for full investigation. Great allowance must be
made for the circumstances of individuals, and for the different points
of view in which different persons see the same thing.
Eighth Month 1st. — To Adams's, in Fleet street, at the request
of De Luc, to see %n electroscope of his invention. It is indeed very
curious.

80 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1808.
15th.— Felt at times a degree of best support; but I have sustained
a severe shock in the sudden death of a dear and valuable servant,
Lancaster Rickards, who has been with me about twelve years. He
died on seventh-day morning, of an apoplectic attack. We set offfor
Sandgate on fifth-day, and I did not get the account until after his
death. This is a close trial, for I really loved him, and shall long and
keenly feel his loss. He has constantly stood by my side in all my
public lectures, in which he was a most valuable assistant. I have been
endeavouring to adopt the language, ' Thy will, 0 Lord, be done,' and
at this moment feel a degree of the comforting and soul-sustaining
presence of my God. May he be with me in all the trials he may
permit to befall me, and finally receive me into his rest!
How solemn the lesson! How awful the call, 'Be ye also-ready,
for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of Man cometh.' My secret
prayers are often put up for a blessing upon all-of whom I have the
charge, and that our merciful Father, through the spirit of his dear Son,
would sweetly draw- them nearer to himself.
20th. — Pepys and I went down, in a post vchaise, to Farrninghataj
where we met R. G. Children, and went to Davy, who was fishing1;
after dinner weproceeded in Children's carriage, to Tonbridge, where
we were most hospitably entertained by him and his father.
21st— After breakfast Children, Davy, Pepys, and I, began our
experiments on Children's great battery. Fused a foot and a half of
platina wire, one thirtieth of an inch in diameter, red hot, and ignited
three feet of thinner wire. The plates were two feet by four, and,
., twenty pairs. Charcoal burnt with a bright light like the sun,.iron wire
was not melted, except short lengths : this Children very properly attri
buted to the oxide instantaneously formed, and which is a non-con-.-
ductor ; it had a greater effect upon thicker wire, no effect_ upon
diamonds, potash, or the gold leaf electrometer, but a couronne des
tasses of two hundred half-pint earthenware jugs, with copper and zinc
plates about two inches square, connected with" lead, decomposed
potash, gave strong shocks, and proved that the large plates give quantity,
and produce great effect in igniting ; the small plates give intensityt
and are most powerful in decomposition. *- The base of potash evidently
blackened diamonds when heated within. a plate glass tube.' Davy
observed that the presence of a very minute proportion of an element
in a compound, was sufficient to give that compound a totally different
appearance; that metals, and all combustible bodies, had a positive
energy, and oxygen a negative energy. Dined at six — a large party."
The next morning he says —
" Breakfasted at half-past seven ; went to Major Woodgate's. Davy,
Pepys, and I, set off about ten in a post.chaise for fcondon.

1808. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 81
Eighth Month 22nd. — It appears that Joseph Bonaparte has fled from
Madrid, and that the Spaniards are at present victorious.
Ninth Month 12th. — The French are withdrawing from Spain, having
met with the most determined opposition.
The English have had a victory over the French in Portugal, and
expectations are entertained that Marshal Junot must surrender.
The Dutch are permitted to open their ports for exports : in the
present critical situation of Bonaparte's affairs, he probably does this to
keep them quiet.
The Americans have placed an embargo on British vessels.
17<A.— Marshal Junot has surrendered to the English in Portugal,
but the public are greatly incensed at the terms.
The Russian fleet at Lisbon is also taken, but the sailors are to be
sent home and the ships returned six months after a peace.
Tenth Month 8th. — I have been rather low' and nervous this week
with the prospect of lectures, business^ and other engagements which I
hardly know how to find time to get through, but I have a comfortable
hope, and even a degree of assurance under all, that I am in the way
of my duty.
15th. — Received an account of the death of my aged and worthy
uncle, William Allen of Ware. I trust he has been gathered as a shock
of corn fully ripe.
Eleventh Month 11th. — Went with Pepys up to Davy at the Royal
Institution ; he is very earnest with me to give some lectures there this
season, but I am very reluctant to engage ; I am, however, to determine
finally in a week.
18th. — Wrote to Davy to give up my lectures at the Royal Institution.
— The French are making progress in Spain, and their steps are marked
with blood.
-Twelfth Month 11th. — Went to hear Davy give his first lecture : a
very brilliant opening; he thinks, that electricity has much to do in the
processes of nature."
The extensive correspondence into which William Allen was intro
duced by the prosecution of his labours on behalf of Lancaster and the
school concern, was a heavy demand upon his time ; but the ardent
zeal which he ever manifested in this great cause, proved from whence
he derivedhis strength'and support.
In a letter to T. W. Smith, soliciting his co-operation, and giving a
sketch of the views and proceedings of the committee, W. A. says —
" I have no doubt thou'art fully convinced, that the cause of morality
and virtue is always promoted by the diffusion of knowledge. But
even in our highly favoured country the well informed philanthropist
must deplore the wretched ignorance of a very large proportion of its
inhabitants. With these sentiments I have directed my attention to the
Vol. I. 6

82 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1808.
plans of Joseph Lancaster, and although I thought I had observed in
his conduct some things which I could have wished .otherwise, yet
upon a closer inspection, I am so fully convinced that his great outline
is correct, and if properly filled up, is capable, of producing incalculable
good, and that his intentions were always honest and honourable, that
it has excited in me no common degree of interest in the subject.
In the first place it was obvious, that although the man has a peculiar
talent for this work, he is deficient in some of those minuter qualifica
tions, which are nevertheless-essential to the final success of any measure
in which property is concerned. - 1 saw that this was the chief bar to
the attainment of the great objects embraced by his plan, and laboured
to prevail upon him to commit all his financial concerns to persons
acquainted with business, and upon whose honour and friendship he
might; depend, and by this means he would be more at leisure to bring
his plans to perfection, and thereby convince the public more generally
of their importance. In this, with the assistance of my friend Joseph
Fox, I have happily succeeded.
Joseph Lancaster has signed an agreement not to incur any. fresh
expense, without the sanction in writing of the committee, and nothing
can be paid without a draft signed by three of them. We meet once
a week and keep regular minutes of our transactions. A rule has been
made, that whenever the inhabitants of a district send for him to assist
them in the formation of a school, they shall pay his travelling expenses.
He has long boarded and clothed a certain number of poor lads,
selected from the most deserving and best disposed of his scholars,
and these are found exceedingly useful in assisting in the establishment
of new schools, of which our present list contains from twenty to thirty,
in different parts of this country, and in Ireland, and if the plan meet
with that support which is most ardently to be wished, the number in
all probability will very shortly be doubled. , The committee has been
greatly encouraged by the countenance of several highly respectable
and benevolent individuals, among whom David Barclay (of Waltham-
stow), is one of the most zealous. George Harrison highly approves
of the measures which have been taken, as does also Lindley Murray,
of York.
Our first object is to raise a sufficient sum of money, as a loan, at
five per cent, interest, to place the establishment on a permanent basis,
and we are making arrangements to accommodate expenditure to in
come, in such a manner, as to allow of an annual surplus for the pay
ment of Joseph Lancaster's debts; for although he has considerable
property, in buildings, &c, which from the estimates nowmaking, by
a regular surveyor, will far exceed what we at first imagined, yet this
property must remain locked up, as long as his establishment is con
tinued; it is, however, a security for the loan. The enclosed papers.

1809. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 83
will shr.v that more than one half of the sum is already subscribed, and
besides this, David Barqlay and J. S. Harford, of Bristol, have each
kindlypresented the committee with a donation of fifty pounds.
The income arises from annual subscriptions, (among which, those
of the King and Royal Family alone, amount to about three hundred
pounds,) and to the profits of the printing office. If thou shouldst wish
for any further explanation, we shall be happy to give it.
I remain, &c."
Twelfth Month 19th, — This has been a week of many engagements,
as usual, and I trust not wholly useless. Finished my morning course
of lectures for the season on seventh-day.
"Thomas Colley preached an instructive sermon on first-day morning.
Alluding to our Saviour's miracle of raising Lazarus, he observed, that
although infinite in power, he commanded the by-standers to remove
the stone, remarking, that we must co-operate with the means of grace,
and that we must labour to remove the stone from the well's mouth,
before we might expect to be refreshed with the springs of consolation ;
that for want of this labour, many attended their places of religious
worship without experiencing spiritual nourishment.
First Month, 1809. — There has been an engagement in Spain, with
dreadful slaughter on both sides. Sir John Moore is killed, Sir David
Baird dangerously wounded, and our troops have re-embarked with a
loss of from seven to ten thousand men.*
Second Month 23rd.— Royal Society. — Davy wishes me to give a
single lecture on wheel carriages, before the Board of Agriculture.
Third Month 3rd. — Experiment with Pepys took up nearly the
whole day. A very important and interesting one with a guinea pig,
which breathed for an hour in a mixture of hydrogen and oxygen gases.
The only effect it appeared to produce, was to make him sleepy to
wards the end of the experiment, but he did not seem to suffer in the
least. Our apparatus was so contrived, that we could have relieved
him whenever he appeared uneasy.
14th. — Went to the Board of Agriculture, Sackville street, Piccadilly,
at the request of Sir John Sinclair, on the subject of my giving them a
lecture on wheel carriages, &c. They will give me the summer to get
ready. They wish me also to write an essay for them, on the application
of mechanical principles to agricultural instruments.
Third Month 21th. — Meeting of Lancaster's committee, on second-
day. W. Smith, the Member for Norwich, called. I showed him the
/¦
* William Allen had Such an abhorrence of war, that the tidings of bloodshed deeply
affected his mind, and were often mentioned in his diary. He notices, with decided appro-
bation, the sentiment of Robert Barclay, that " it is as easy to reconcile the greatest con
tradictions, as the laws of our Lord Jesus Christ with the wicked practices of wars, for they
are plainly inconsistent."

84 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1809.
minute books, with which he seemed much pleased, and promised to
.... i
assist in getting subscriptions.
The more I consider the subject of general education, the more I am
convinced of its importance ; the poor will be brought to a knowledge
of their duty, which is one step towards the diminution of crime, and,
as the physical strength of the community resides in this class, it is of
the utmost importance that the individuals composing it should -have
clear ideas of right and wrong.
Attended a meeting of the African Institution on seventh-day, when
Earl Moira informed us, that Sir Sydney Smith, now in the Brazils, had
been presented with a tract of land, by the Portuguese government,
and also fifty slaves to cultivate it; and that his first act on taking
possession of it, Was, to set them all at liberty, and to give to each a
portion of ground. for his own use. This example, it is hoped, will
have a beneficial influence upon the Portuguese.
Fourth Month 26th. — Sunday School Committee at Batson's, and
thence to the Soup Committee,— the delivery is to terminate with the
month. Fifth Month. — A visit to my brother Samuel's at West Mill ; had
at times a sweet sense that divine love and goodness were near them.
Sixth Month 5th, — The Yearly Meeting closed comfortably on fifth-
day. I have felt at times sweet peace. ' Good is the Lord, and worthy
to be served.'
6th. — To the African Institution with T. Clarkson. Letters from
Africa were read, which were very satisfactory, and a committee was
appointed at the suggestion of T. Clarkson, to look out for vessels
infringing the Abolition act.
It is truly gratifying to see so large a number of men of rank and
talent connected with the government, either as members of Parlia
ment or otherwise, so zealous in this work ; but some plan of personal
application is wanting, in order to raise the funds of the Institution to
a state commensurate with its important objects. Much money was
expended last year in the purchase of cotton seed, which was sent. to
Sierra Leone ; for although the cotton tree grows plentifully in Africa, .
it is not that sort, which is wanted by the manufacturers of this country.
Sixth Month 15th: — Finished our second paper on respiration, and
sent it in to the Royal Society.
19th. — A poorish night with Lancaster's affairs, but, turning my
mind to the Lord, had a degree of sweet peace and comfort. I am
anxious to act prudently, and to do right.
Seventh Month 1st. — Went up to Dr. Wollaston's to talk with him
about our guinea pig paper; met with Dr. Babington, Sir James Hall,
Lord Webb Seymour, and Dr. Marcet, and was prevailed upon to stay
and dine with them : spent a few hours very agreeably.

1809. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 85
6th. — The council of the Royal Society has ordered our paper to be
printed." Jbhn Dalton, of Manchester, says, in a letter to W. A. —
" I have read with great interest your two, papers on carbonic acid
and respiration, and upon the whole am very well pleased with them.
I wrote a paper two or three years ago on respiration, which will per
haps appear in our next vojume. The results of my experiments led
me to conclude that all the oxygen which disappears is to be found in
the carbonic acid : there, is one very Striking difference in our experi
ments, the medium of air respired with me, loses only four or five
oxygen; per cent., and gains nearly the same acid, the conclusion you
obtain from respiring the same air as long as possible is very remark
able, — I cannot make up my mind' upon it. I was glad to see your
results on charcoal, &c, so clear and definite."
"The king has sent in his subscription to Lancaster's concern, and
Fox and I have agreed to devote a certain time every week to get more
annual subscriptions. We have now about four hundred and forty
pounds, and want eleven hundred. The rate of new subscriptions re
quired is fonrteen guineas per week ; we ought also to get rid of
Maiden Bradley, Deptford and Camberwell,— (three schools under the
care of Joseph Lancaster).
Eighth Month 12th. — To Newington by two-o'clock coach. In the
afternoon raised the electrical kite,— wind south, weather showery.
When the kite was in a clear sky, it gave positive electricity, varying
from fifteen to thirty degrees ; but a cloud arose, and as it approached
the kite, signs of electricity were reduced to 0. It became negative
under the cloud, then more strongly negative as rain began to fall, and
kept increasing till I was almost alarmed, the sparks being very dense,
zigzag, and about two inches long ; and this, notwithstanding the in
sulation was spotted with rain.
The Methodists in Jamaica have been very harshly treated, for their
attempts to instruct the poor slaves, and some of them have actually
been sent to jail, under some recent arbitrary acts of the Assembly.
These acts were sent over to be sanctioned by the king, who has nobly
refused to do it.
Much good has been done in this country by a society for printing
and circulating religious tracts at a cheap rate. They often consist of
interesting narratives, calculated to raise good feelings. This would na
turally follow a scheme for the general education of the labouring classes.
13th. — Joseph Lancaster has given two or three lectures in London,
and, on the whole, I believe the cause of education is benefited by it.
Annual subscriptions, come in pretty freely. We have now about six
hundred and thirty pounds.
18th.— William Dillwyn informed me that he had received a letter

86 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1809.
from America, stating that a Captain Paul Cuffee, an African, who had
acquired about five thousand pounds sterling, in mercantile pursuits,
and who is owner of a vessel manned only with black seamen, had
lately been received a- member of our religious society, that he was
highly respected by Friends in Philadelphia, and that he felt a religious
concern to assist, as far as in his power, the views of the African In
stitution. His intention was, provided he met with ' sufficient encou
ragement here, to sale from America to Sierra Leone, with a cargo
likely to be s'uitable for the place, and, when there, make such obser-'
vations as would enable him to judge whether he should do right to
encourage some sober families of black people in America to settle
among the Africans, and if so, he intended to convey them in his own
vessel." In combating the prejudices of some narrow-minded persons, 'who
pleaded for the expediency of keeping the poor in ignorance, lest they
should be discontented with their situation, &c, William Allen ob
serves —
"The mere possession of knowledge will not enable a person. to
change his rank or situation in society, unless he employs that knowledge
to the benefit of the community,' and here the plan in question would
favour the development of talent and promote the general welfare.
Tenth Month 11th. — To the Committee of the ' Sunday School So
ciety,' at Batson's ; general meeting afterwards. An account of
schools in the Isle of Man for 1064 children.
13th. — Spirits a little depressed with a prospect of more than my
share of lectures at the Hospital, on account of the absence of our col
league, Dr. Marcet, who is attending the sick troops from Walcheren.-
Twelfth Month.- — A victory of Admiral Collingwood, iri fhe Medi
terranean, over part of the French fleet.
30th. — Tea at Joseph Fox's, Argyle street, then to Lady Hester
Stanhope, to talk about school concerns ; she possesses considerable
abilities and extensive knowledge of persons in high life ; she is a niece
of the late William Pitt, and resided with him. She is going to Sicily
for her health, on second-day next, to be absent about two years."
At the close of this year William Allen received a letter from his
mother, in which she says —
" Now, my dearly beloved, suffer thy tender mother to throw before
thee the wish of her soul, — that thou mayst surrender up all that does
not tend to promote the coming of thy Heavenly Father's kingdom in
thy heart, and his will being done by thee on earth, as it is, done in
heaven ; thou wilt, I believe, if faithful, hear the yoice of the Lord
saying, < Who will go for us ? And O, mayest thou be so unloosed
from earthly concerns, as that this ready humble language may, be
thine, — 'Here am I, Lord, send me.' "

1810. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 87

CHAPTER IV.
1810 — IS12. — Seizure of the Commercio de Rio — Opening Lecture at the Royal Institution
— Philanthropist — Letters from his Mother — Appointed Overseer — Arrival of Captain
Paul Cuffee— Opening of Spitalfields School — Correspondence respecting Africa — Exer
tions on behalf of Distressed Manufacturers — Friends' Address to the Prince Regent —
London Auxiliary Bible Society — Relief of the Poor in Spitalfields — Detraction — S. Grel-
let's Meeting for Poor of Spitalfields.
"First Month 4th, 1810. — Received a donation from an individual
of our religious society, of five hundred guineas, for the school concern."
The sixth of Twelfth Month W. A. writes, that Elizabeth Fry,
" Joseph Fry's wife, said a few words in meeting," and on the four
teenth of Ehst Month he says —
" Meeting, — dear E. Fry again spoke in ministry, and my soul re
joiced that the Lord is from time to time raising up fresh advocates for
his great cause, and calling some into his vineyard to supply the places
of those who have finished their day's work. 0, that I might be of this
number!" The attention of William Allen, and other friends of humanity was
for some time much occupied with the investigation of an atrocious
attempt, made, even in the port of London, to evade the Act for the
Abolition of the Slave Trade. In reference to this event, he says —
" A vessel, called the ' Commercio de Rio,'' three hundred and sixty
tons burden, was fitted out by a Portuguese house in London, to engage
in this abominable traffic ; its proceedings were narrowly watched for
some time, and when the proofs became sufficiently strong, an informa
tion was laid, and the vessel seized in consequence : on board were
found ninety-three pairs of handcuffs, one hundred and ninety-seven
iron shackles for the feet, several hundred weights of iron chain, and
fifty-five dozen of padlocks, together with mess-kits, and a large store
of those provisions which are usually destined for the miserable inhab
itants of these horrid dungeons; the main-deck gratings were concealed
by a slight covering, which, to the eye, appeared like a common deck,
but so contrived as to be easily removed when the vessel got to sea ;
she was in other respects completely fitted up as a slave ship, and capable
of carrying from six hundred to eight hundred slaves ; great precautions
were taken, as welLas much intrigue employed, to prevent suspicion
and impose upon government. A person high in office, as a Portuguese
agent, exerted his influence with the British Cabinet, to palliate this
nefarious business, but the vigilance of the friends of humanity, and the
laws of our country, detected and punished the attempt. The vessel
is valued at twenty thousand pounds."
W. A. afterwards notices, that " the vessel and her cargo were con
demned in the Court of Exchequer, and have since been sold."

88 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1810.
"First Month 21th. — Saw the necessity of still more humility. It
is a great thing to be a Christian indeed.
Second Month 3rd.— Went up to Somerset House^ and then to Albe
marle street.— Saw Davy, and at his urgent request agreed to give one
lecture a week at the Royal Institution.
Ministers out-voted two or three times in one night. — They have
excluded strangers from the gallery on the Walcheren investigation, so
that it is to go on with closed doors.
9th.— A little after twelve, set off to the Royal Institution.— Opening
lecture, No. 1. — Davy encouraged me very much." x
In commencing this course, W. A. made the following introductory
observations : —
"In soliciting your attention to the subject of experimental philosophy,
I am inviting you to the. exercise of one of the noblest faculties with
which it has pleased Infinite Wisdom to endow his creature, man.
When we reflect upon our mental capacity, and attentively consider
the history of nations, we must be convinced that a knowledge of the
material world is not intuitive, but that in what concerns the temporal
comfort and accommodation of rational creatures, the Supreme Being
has left them to the exercise of their natural powers. It does not appear
that divine revelation was vouchsafed in the department of natural
philosophy, and we may accordingly remark, that in the sacred writings,
the expression of these phenomena has been accommodated to the
ordinary conceptions of the times. Thus the same inspiration which
developed truths essential to the eternal happiness of man, was silent
upon subjects which human ingenuity was competent to discover. No
hint was given of the diurnal revolution of the earth, no idea of the
different orbits of the planets, no intimation of that attractive force
which maintains an equilibrium amongst the vast bodies of theuniverse ;
this knowledge was, however, placed within the reach of human attain
ment, and it seems plainly designed that man should examine and
investigate, and that exertion should be essential to his comfort.
The difference between a civilized and a barbarous state, arises from
a cultivation of the intellectual faculties in the one, and a total neglect
of them in the other. Knowledge is obtained by observation, by care
fully comparing the effects produced by different agents, in .short, by
attentively noticing what is constantly taking place around us. But
as the objects which present themselves upon the stage of our present
existence are so numerous, the changes they undergo so various, and
the causes which prodijce these changes so stupendous, it necessarily
follows, that the progress of the human mind in the acquisition of know
ledge must be slow ; since, however, by the aid of printing, we are
able to give extensive circulation to any new discovery, and secure it
to generations yet unborn, the labours of every age will serve as the

1810. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 89
substratum for succeeding ones, and, if we proceed with caution,
according to the rules which I shall endeavour to explain, our work
will be solid and permanent.
Lord Bacon and Sir Isaac Newton have done more for the advance
ment of real knowledge, than all their predecessors; rejecting that
philosophy which consisted in a mere jargon of words, they taught man
kind to employ their eyes and their hands in the investigation of truth ;
they recommended experiment as the most certain means of ascertaining
facts, and gave us rules for the conduct of our understanding, in system
atizing and arranging those facts calculated to lead us up to the first
Great and All-efficient Cause. This was a triumph worthy of the last
ages, and which, if followed np, will pour a flood of light upon those
which are yet to come.
The present lecture is intended to direct your attention to the path
which these great men have marked out, and to give some idea of its
object and its end."
" Third Month 3rd. — We have had two committees on Lancaster's
concerns this week, that on fourth-day was a financial one. We must
get ten more names upon the loan list, and some more new annual
subscriptions. It requires constant exertion to keep it up.
lOiA.-^-Ministers in a minority of thirty-three, in a house of four
hundred, on Earl Chatham's business. The latter resigned his place as
head of the Ordnance.
12£A.^-Joseph Fox and I went up to Sir J. Newport, and had a most
interesting conversation with him on the school concern. He wishes
to promote an experiment in Ireland."
A friend of Youghal, to whom W. A. had written on the subject of
education, as well-as that of the Capital Punishment Society, says, in
her reply — ,
" Both these subjects have much occupied my mind, even from
childhood, and I could readily believe in the truth of a remark of the
excellent Dr. B. Rush, of Philadelphia ; he says, « The vices which
follow the want of religious instruction among the children of the poor,
lay the foundation of most of the jails and places of public punishment
in the state.' "
"28th. — George Harrison and I went to the board of directors of the
African Institution, at the Freemason's Tavern ; the general meeting
was held afterwards, when the report was read and new directors
chosen. A person of the name of Towers moved a vote _of thanks and
a piece of plate, Value fifty guineas, to Macaulay, for his exertions,
which was agreed to.".
On the first meeting of the Board afterwards, W. A.^ays —
" Macaulay begged leave to decline the plate, though he felt gratified
by the sense which the Institution appeared to entertain of his services.

90 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1810.
Fourth Month.— Sir Francis Burdett having written a pamphlet
which the House of Commons' deemed a breach of privilege, have
ordered him to the Tower. There was a majority of thirtyTtwo, in a
house of about three hundred and sixty. This measure excited, great
commotion among the populace, and it is reported that some persons
were killed in the streets.
On sixth-day the House sat upon the Walcheren business, and con
tinued till past seven on seventh-day morning. A majority of only
forty-eight in favour of Ministers, in a house of five hundred and four.
9th.— Sir Francis Burdett was sent to the Tower under a strong
military guard. The mob pelted the soldiers with brick-bats and
stones and mud; they fired upon the people and several were killed.
11th. — Meeting — to comfort. As I had my lecture to compose, I
deliberated with myself whether I might not omit meeting, but I was
not easy to do it, and was glad I went.
16th. — Lancaster's Committee. Four schools are to be established
at Glasgow, solely on this plan.
Fifth Month 15th. — I was urged by Sir John Sinclair, on sixth-day,
to give them some lectures at the Board of Agriculture, but I was very
desirous of getting off, and called to-day to decline giving any this
season. African Institution at one. A large meeting. The Duke of Gloucester,
as usual, at his post, and manifesting a lively interest in the important
subjects under discussion. The old veterans in the cause, Granville
Sharpe, Wilberforce, William Smith and others, were present,— indeed,
the majority of the company were members either of one or the other
House of Parliament. Wilberforce brought forward some very important
resolutions respecting the Island of Trinidad, which produced, some
very judicious observations from Granville Sharpe and Brougham^ who
has lately been brought into Parliament. We were informed that at the
taking of Guadaloupe about three hundred black soldiers in the French
service were made prisoners, that they were afterwards distributed on
board the ships of the squadron, and sold as prize goods at Martinique,
for the benefit of the army and navy. The Duke of Gloucester mani
fested much displeasure at this proceeding, and if ministers do not
attend to it promptly, William Smith and Brougham are determined
to move an inquiry in the House of Commons ; for the French, in
their capitulation, had expressly stipulated, that the black; people in
their service should be considered free men, and be no more reduced
to a state of bondage.
11th  Committee on the choice of a clerk for Meeting for Sufferings.
My name was proposed for _ that office, and on fully considering the
subject, I felt something like an-evidence tjiat it would be right for me
to undertake it, and accordingly consented. ,

1810* OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 91
Sixth Month. — The Yearly Meeting closed on sixth-day, and has been
on the whole a satisfactory season. In the course of it, our little com
mittee for diffusing information on the subject of Capital Punishments
has received several donations. We are by no means discouraged at
the defeat of Sir Samuel Romilly's attempts in Parliament. One great
object,; that of public discussion, is obtained, and whenever a proposed
measure is founded on humanity and good sense, we need not doubt
of ultimate success.
Inquiry is making respecting the transactions at Guadaloupe, but
nothing farther has yet been discovered.
The Commercio de Rio being finally condemned, it is thought right
that the owners should be prosecuted for the penalties, and I think it is
a very proper measur^ for it will not only operate as a powerful check,
but may bring to lighf some of the hidden things of darkness by the
investigations which must take place upon a trial.
15th. — Elected an honorary member of the Board of Agriculture.
I must now write a small pamphlet, in a popular style, on the best form
of wheel carriages and roads. It had, perhaps, better be first given in
lectures at the Board.
21st.— The public, mind agitated on account of the liberation of Sir
Francis Burdett from the Tower; it is to take place as the Parliament
rises. At the Royal Society in the evening, the streets tolerably quiet.
Sixth Month 22nd. — Waited on the Duchess of Richmond by her
own request : I informed her of the present state of Lancaster's affairs,
and she offered to become patroness, if we formed a society in Ireland
for the promotion of schools upon his plan ; she thinks she can forward
our cause very much there."
¦ The ever active mind of William Allen had been for some time
much occupied in the consideration of preparing a little periodical for
publication, to be entitled, "The Philanthropist." In this work he
obtained the assistance of several of his friends. On the 16th of Seventh
Month, he writes, ''Finished the rough draft of my paper for the Phi
lanthropist." In this he says — ^
"The sole object of the present work is to stimulate to virtue and
active benevolence, by pointing out to those who have the disposition
and the power, the means of gratifying the best feelings of the heart,
and to show that all, even the poorest, may render material assistance
in ameliorating the condition of man."
He further observes that — , j-
" The unity of design which the contemplative mind will perceive
in the effects of Almighty Power, guided by infinite wisdom in the
production of good, makes it evident that a human being, in fulfilling
the purposes of his Creation, and promoting, his own happiness, must
of necessity promote that of his fellow creatures ; for he then acts har-

92 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1810.
moniously with the divine intention, and it will be found ihat as we
approach more nearly to the standard of perfection, we shall be more
fully imbued with love to our species, and even become anxious to
promote the welfare of all within the sphere of our influence.
They, on the other hand, who are out of this divine harmony, are not
only miserable in themselves, but the cause of misery to others; and
to this circumstance, may, in great measure, be attributed the evils
which desolate the world, such being, in the energetic language of the
Apostle, ' hateful and hating one another.''
In a letter from Henry, now Lord Brougham, written in allusion to
the Philanthropist, he says —
" I should before this time have answered your kind letter and
thanked you for the sheets of the new work. I ne^d not say how greatly
I approve of it. Nothing has been planned for a^ery long time which
has given me more real pleasure, and I hope I shall hereafter be able to
show my zeal and anxious wishes for its success, more substantially than
by any expression of good-will ; but when I explain to you how I am
circumstanced at present, I am, confident you will see how impossible it
is for me to contribute anything to the first number." f
Thomas Clarkson, in speaking of the Philanthropist, says —
" When I consider the great, importance of this work ; the persons
concerned in it ; that there will be no trash in the publication, I would
urge your having a large number printed."
Seventh Month 30th  A degree of comfort at meeting on fourth-day,
but soon afterwards I experienced a severe shock, — my dear cousin
Mary Bevan, had a stroke of apoplexy at J. Fry's, Mildred's Court.
She appears to be very gradually recovering."
W. A. had been much interested in the decision of a Prize Appeal
Court, on the subject of the capture of American vessels, laden with
slaves ; and H. Brougham, in replying to a letter from him, referring to
the debate in Parliament respecting it, says —
"I am peculiarly gratified with the judgment of the Prize Appeal
Court, — it gives a severe blow to the trade, and fully confirms a prin
ciple laid down-by me with some confidence, in the debate alluded to,
that by the law of nations, as of nature, human beings cannot be the
objects of commerce.
Eighth Month 10th — Went to Kensington Gore, to call on W. Wil
berforce — had some interesting conversation with him — religion amongst
other topics, but the main business related to Paul Cuffee, the black
captain. Sevedra, the Spanish Governor at Buenos Ayres, says no more slave,
ships shall enter there.
Three more American slave ships are taken.
Ninth Month 11th. — My spirits much depressed on several accounts^

1810. ' OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 93
as — humbling views of myself, and feelings. of great inward poverty —
school, concern — my treatise for the Board of Agriculture — impending
lectures — business, &c, but I must brush up, and hope for the best.
I have certainly been helped hitherto, and trust that He who knows
my most secret intentions, will mercifully continue his assistance.
24th. — Review of last week. — Very low on many accounts, but
received some comfort at meeting on first-day morning. Sarah Hack
said, that though Some might be tried with deep perplexity, and even
dismay, though the enemy might be suffered to come in as a flood, yet,
if these were in integrity of heart to cleave to their Divine Guide and
Monitor,, the Spirit of the Lord would raise up a .standard against their
souls' adversary.
Tenth Month. — Sweet consolation at meeting yesterday. A. Crowley
was there, and was led to address us in an extraordinary manner. I
was under some depression of mind, and the darts of the enemy were
almost too powerful for my. shield of faith, when, blessed be the name
of my God, the same yesterday, to-day, and for ever, my faith was.
renewed, in some degree, before his dear servant was commissioned
to speak in his name, and in his power. Thus, in this world of -sorrow
and trial, stepping stones are graciously placed at intervals.
My prayer has been of late, that if the Great Master deem me at all
worthy to assist his poor church, he would be pleased to qualify me for
it, and keep me humble before him.
An affecting dispensation has been permitted to my poor cousin,
Martha Wallis, at Plaistow, — the scarlet fever has got into her school,
and one of the children is dead.
6th. — A very trying week on account of the distressing circum
stances of my cousin M. Wallis's family. She lost both her daughters,
her only children, yesterday. Martha, Jun., died about five o'clock,
and her sister Ann survived her until seven. Another of the children
seems not likely to recover. The ways of Infinite Wisdom are incom
prehensible, and it is our duty to submit with reverence.
Tenth Month 10th. — Overdone with engagements, particularly on
third-day, which I severely felt on fourth-day in a distressing headache.
I have, however, -the satisfaction of having been instrumental with my
worthy fellow labourer and colleague, Joseph Fox, in forming a school
committee in Spitalfields for the education of poor children on Lan
caster's plan.
11th.— Very much affected with an instance of the want of true
spiritual feeling in a very wise man as to things in this world, but
inwardly comforted, with the sweet assurance of the truth and certainty
of the precious and divine principle of grace operating on the heart.
The things of- the heavenly kingdom still remain to be considered as
foolishness by the worldly wise."

94 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1810.
The Lancasterian committee, finding that more vigorous and extended
efforts were requisite in order to insure the success of their important
undertaking, agreed to endeavour to add to , their number, and suc
ceeded in obtaining the consent of several desirable persons to join
them. On fhe twenty-third of Eleventh Month, W. A. writes—
» Brougham and Fox dined with me, and we settled some important
matters relative to the new Lancasterian committee.
24th.— This week has been full of engagements ; I hope a sense of
divine things will not be lost in the crowd. .> ,
Twelfth Month 1th. — Very busy with Joseph Fox, in preparing for
a meeting with several persons whom we have engaged to assist us in
Lancaster's concerns. Enlarged committee at six o'clock — about four
teen attended— -J. Jackson in the chair; adjourned to Thatched House
Tavern, on sixth-day next.
The great reason why we are often in poverty of spirit, as to religious
feeling, is, that we do not seek. -Our blessed Lord said, 'Seek, and
ye shall find ; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.'
14th  Went up to the Thatched House Tavern, to meet the enlarged
committee, a respectable company. John Walker, of Southgate, was
in the chair. Brougham stated the business— Resolutions passed.—
Adjourned to this day five weeks  About twenty, or thirty persons
present. I hope this committee will be - able to take off some of the
pecuniary burden which has lain too heavily on a few.
Twelfth Month 29th. — The following letter was received from H.
Davy: —
'My Daer Allen,,
«As you are a professor of natural philosophy at the Institution,
your name, of course, must appear in the list of lecturers. I hope you
will contrive to give some lectures. Mr. Pond will take a considerable
part of optics and mechanics.
Perhaps you will give a few, six for instance, on pneumatics and
hydraulics. But you must be governed by your own convenience;
your time is too precious to be employed in any way that is not
pleasant to you,- and that does not coincide with your own views of
utility. I hoped to have met you at Dr. Babington's, on Saturday, but was
disappointed. I trust you are quite well, and that you do not injure
your health by your unceasing exertion to promote all good things.
I am, my dear Allen, most sincerely yours,
H. Davy.'
29th. — To town by eight o'clock coach — learning Greek cards— *
correcting proof of ' Philanthropist' — called with Lancaster's books, on
Joseph Fox, in Argyle street, and thence to S. R., James's Place; had
a most satisfactory interview him, and settled affairs between him and

1810. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 95
Lancaster. Dined with Joseph Fox, after an unsuccessful attempt to
meet with Wilberforce and Brougham — home to Plough Court, and then
to Steward street, to take tea with my dear mother."
There was always a-close bond of union between W. Allen and his
mother, her natural affections were strong, and her maternal tenderness
towards him was met on his part by true filial love. She frequently
conveyed to, him in writing the religious concern she felt on his behalf;
her letters were carefully preserved, and he often kept one of them in a
pocket-book which was his constant companion ; and in many seasons
of affliction and discouragement, he was consoled by her sympathy and
strengthened by her counsel. In more advanced life, when age and
increasing infirmities rendered her unable fully to participate in his
feelings, or continue her watchful care over his best interests, his atten
tions were unremitting, his visits to her being almost daily ; and to the
close of her lengthened life, it was one of his chief comforts to soothe
her sufferings, or minister to her wants.
In one of her letters to him, written this year, she says —
" Thy kind sympathizing attention is extremely grateful to me, and
it is the prayer of my spirit that the Lord may reward thee with the
descendings of his love and life-giving, presence. My drooping mind
was refreshed last evening, in feeling thy mind drawn, in silence, to
wards that divine in-speaking Word which endureth forever. Mayest
thou often, even in the midst of thy occupations, turn to Him for
counsel, then wilt thou know all thy steps to be ordered of the Lord,
and in righteousness shalt thou be established.
I have frequently admired at the permissions of Providence concern
ing thee, even in thy going from thy father's house. It was a bitter cup to
me to part with thee, yet the distance being so short, I gave thee up, pre
ferring thy apprehended good, and through the right dedication of thy
talents, the good of others, to my own gratification. But when I saw the
trials, the heart-rending sorrow thou hadst to pass through, I was ready to
call in question all that I had believed right ; the cloud was at first too
thick to be seen through by mortal eyes ; but by endeavouring to hold
fast my confidence, my mind was strengthened in the hope that thou
wouldst be preserved through all, and that by these means thou wouldst
be fitted to fill with humility the station allotted thee in the succeeding
stages of thy life, and surely I have cause to say, 'Good is the word of
the Lord.' "
A short time afterwards she thus addresses him —
"My DEARLY BELOVED CHILD,
"Thou wast yesterday morning brought near to my spirit with
much sweetness ; my mind was given to see what was the mind of
Truth concerning thee, and in the prospect, earnest desires were raised
for thy preservation, and that thy talents might be dedicated, without

96 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1811.
reserve, to the Great Giver ; then would he refine and qualify thee to
promote his cause on earth, and make of thee a pillar in his house, to
go no more out. He would likewise enable thee to show unto others
where the pearl of greatest value is to be found ; thou wouldst not only
be set as a watchman on the walls of Zion, but thou wouldst also be
made instrumental to turn the attention of the children of men to that
divine gift of grace, which, if believed in and obeyed, would make real
Christians, putting an end to pride, avarice, and contention, and the
attendant of these,— bloodshed ; and making way for the fulfilment of
the angelic anthem, which ushered in the birth of the Saviour of man
kind, 'Peace on earth and good will towards men.' 0, how I long
that the great design of our blessed Redeemer's example, sufferings,
and death were more fully accomplished ! and that thou and others,
who have seen, in a degree, the beauty that there is in the Truth, or in
other words, in real vital Christianity, may never turn aside from its
brightness. ' The path of the just is as a shining light, that shiheth
more and more unto the perfect day :' and info this path, I believe
beyond a doubt, thou art called."
The accounts of the King's state beingvery unfavourable, a Regency
is to be appointed.
Attended a committee on Antigua concerns.*
First Month, 1811— Great debates about the Regency ; the King is
rather better.
First Month 12th. — Took Lancaster's books up to Fox's, and thence
we went by appointment to Wilberforce's, at Kensington. He kept
us about four hours ; we had to explain the business, from the begin
ning ; he seems to be much interested, and is to suggest some more
names for the committee.
The Prince of Wales has accepted the Regency.
19th  Making statements of J. Lancaster's affairs ; took the minute
books, &c, in a coach, and had an interview with Sir Samuel Romilly:
he fully agrees to be on the committee.
22nd.— Counting-house. About twelve went to the African Insti
tution; Duke of Gloucester there, and a large meeting. Afternoon,
Dr. Bradley and mathematics lecture, experimental philosophy, No. 13,
pneumatics as far as barometer; very satisfactory. After^ lecture took
* Although an act of the legislature had rendered it illegal to traffic in the persons of
men, yet no human laws could remove the moral evils consequent upon this dreadful com
merce ; and cases of cruelty and oppression continually called forth the exertions of the
humane. The accounts received from Antigua of the sufferings of those slaves, who either
through injuries arising from ill-treatment, sickness, or old age, were deserted by their
owners, induced a few benevolent persons, members of the Society of Friends, to contri
bute towards alleviating their condition. A committee was formed to take charge of the
distribution of the funds, 'and it appeared that much good was done by the relief thus
afforded.

1811. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 97
a coach and went to the committee of the Royal Institution ; home
before eleven.
30th. — Batson's, at the ' Sunday School ' Committee ; two of the
members made a violent and most cruel attack upon  ."
William Allen had a high sense of justice and of moral obligation ;
he was always pained on hearing any one speak disadvantageously of
the character of another, and in many instances took much pains to
endeavour to ascertain the truth of the accusation ; particularly if the
parties concerned were in a subordinate situation. In the present
instance he investigated the circumstances of the case very minutely,
and two days afterwards had the satisfaction of being able to note that
he "found all right."
Second Month. — A letter from Wilberforce declining to be on the
enlarged committee.
11th.— ^ Some little feeling of good.
Resolved to try to find time to compose a little work in proof of
spiritual communication, between the Creator and his rational creatures;
for this purpose I must read the Bible and Testament through, and
make notes. I trust this might be useful in preserving some of our youth
from the specious sophistry of those who hold that we have nothing but
reason to guide us.
Sometimes I am uneasy at the pecuniary advances I have made in
the school concern ; but at others I am comforted in believing it is the
Lord's work ; may he bless it in our hands !
Second Month 13th. — Went up with Pepys to the committee of
chemistry at the Royal Institution ; Sir Joseph Banks, Earl Spencer,
&e, &Ci, there ; examined a person's scheme for preserving fresh meat
for the navy. It is put into atin case raw, filled as full as possible,
soldered down, then boiled about three quarters of an hour if it weighs
61b., or shorter or longer time according to its weight. It will then
keep for months. Some gravy sealed up in a stone bottle for two
months was quite fresh, as was also some veal, not the least sign of
decomposition, though it had been in the tin two months, and in mak
ing a hole in the vessel under water, only a few bubbles of air escaped,
which proved azote with about five per cent, of oxygen, but none of
the compounds of hydrogen.
25th. — Prayer in the night, followed by secret comfort. Lord, I
believe, help thou mine unbelief!
Spitalfields school. committee ; a satisfactory conference with T. F.
Buxton, S. Hoare, jun., Barclay, &c, on Spitalfields school.
Third Month 5th. — To Devonshire House to meet committee on
subscription for British prisoners in France.
6th. — Three o'clock^ Borough Road, to meet the Duke of Glou-
Vol. I. 7

98 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1811.
cester, &c. ; W. Bootle, Sir John Sebright, and W. Wilberforce were
there ; they seemed much gratified.
1th.— Capital punishment committee, at four ; full attendance ; B. .
Foster resigned the office of secretary, which I took up.
8th. — Thatched House Tavern, about two. ^ Lancaster's committee ;
Duke of Bedford present ; good attendance.
22nd. — Writing a paragraph for the Times newspaper, in answer to
an attack upon Spitalfields school."
Astronomy was a very favourite relaxation of William Allen's,, and
he says —
"It being a fine starlight night, amused myself with Bode's atlas
and the equatorial.
Third Month 27i/i— The Duke of Gloucester gained his election as
Chancellor of the University of Cambridge : the numbers were — for
the Duke of Gloucester, four hundred and seventy; the Duke of Rut
land, three hundred and fifty-six; majority, one hundred and fourteen.
31s;. — Very much overdone this. week. I think school concerns
altogether have taken up nearly three days.
Fourth Month. — Great scarcity of silver currency, — rather alarming.
10th. — Monthly Meeting. I was appointed to the station of over
seer.* Though conscious of my unfitness for it I was afraid to refuse,
lest I should shrink from a duty, and thereby bring greater spiritual
poverty upon myself. My prayer is to be preserved from doing any
harm, if I can do no good. 0 for a grain of true faith !
Fifth Month 1th. — I went to the Board of Agriculture, where I
gave my first lecture on wheel carriages — about twenty of the nobility
present. 11th  Very busy; went with Mill and Ricardo to the Borough
Road, thence to Freemason's Tavern to the general Meeting of Lan
caster's subscribers, the Duke of Bedford in the chair ; the Dukes of
Kent and Sussex present, and a great number of Members of Parlia
ment ; a message of approbation from the Prince Regent. Lancaster
read his report, and I read the committee's report; many resolutions
were put and carried, and on the whole, abating a little for Lancaster
himself, the business went off to admiration. A glorious day.
14th. — Board of Agriculture — lecture on roads, No. 2, well satisfied.
This finishes my lectures for the season.
25th. — Though the tide of consolation has not risen very high, I
have had a few seasons of refreshment; some conflicts with J. L. but
* The discipline of the Society of Friends directs that, if practicable, some of their mem
bers, whbse conduct and conversation manifest "the fruits of the Spirit," be appointed to
exercise a general care and oversight of all the individuals who constitute the particular
meeting to which they belong. The persons thus appointed, are denominated Overseers.

1811. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 99
experienced a degree of sustaining support, and my mind was favoured
with calmness.
Sixth Month 3rd. — The Yearly Meeting closed comfortably about
two o'clock on sixth day. A precious solemnity prevailed towards
the conclusion.",
Seventh Month. — A circumstance occurred about this period, which
William Allen regarded as of great importance to Africa, and therefore
it excited his peculiar interest ; this was the arrival in England of Cap
tain Paul Cuffee, the man of colour who has already been noticed, but
as the transactions with him now begin to assume a more prominent
character, it seems needful in order to make those, who are unac
quainted with his- history, understand the subsequent allusions, to give
some particulars of his life, contained in the papers and correspondence
ofW. A.
"The father of Paul Cuffee was a native of Africa, whence he was
taken as a slave to Massachusetts. He was there purchased, and re
mained in slavery a considerable portion of his life. Like many of his
countrymen he possessed a mind superior to his condition, and although
he was diligent in the business of his master, and faithful to his interest,
yet, by great industry and economy, he was enabled to purchase
his liberty. He married a person belonging to one of the Indian tribes
who originally possessed the right of soil in Massachusetts, and con
tinuing in habits of industry and frugality, acquired a little property,
and bought a farm of one hundred acres, at Westport.
Cuffee and his wife had a family of ten children, Paul the youngest
son was born on the Island of Cotterhunkker, one of the Elizabeth
Islands, near New Bedford, in the year 1759, His father died when
he was about fourteen, leaving a considerable property in land, but
Which, being at that time unproductive, afforded little provision for so
numerous a family, and the care of supporting their mother and sisters
devolved chiefly upon his brothers and himself.
The enterprising mind of Paul was soon directed to commerce, as
he conceived that it furnished more ample rewards to industry than
agriculture. He thereforej at the age of sixteen, entered as a common
hand on board a vessel destined for the Bay of Mexico, on a whaling
voyage.'' After continuing four years in a subordinate capacity, he
commenced business on his own account. He experienced many
hardships, toils and disappointments, and was more than once taken
by pirates and pillaged of every thing, but he seemed to possess that
active courage which is the offspring of a mind satisfied of the prac
ticability of its plans, and conscious of the power to accomplish its pur
pose; he therefore resolutely determined to persevere in the course
which he had marked out for himself, believing that while he main
tained integrity of heart1 and conduct, he might humbly hope for the

100 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1811.
protection of Providence. His labours were ultimately crowned with
success, and in 1795 lie was master of a schooner of sixty-nine tons
burden. On his arrival at one of the American ports, the people were
filled with astonishment and alarm ; a vessel, owned and commanded
by a black man, and manned with a crew of the same complexion, was
unprecedented and surprising; suspicions were raised, and several
persons associated themselves for the purpose of preventing him from
registering his vessel, or remaining among them ; on examination how
ever, his papers proved to be correct, and therefore the custom-house
officers could not legally oppose his proceeding in regular course.
Paul combined prudence with resolution, and on this occasion con
ducted himself with candour, modesty, and firmness ; his crew also
behaved- not only inoffensively, but with conciliating propriety. In a
few days the inimical association vanished, and the inhabitants treated
him and his crew with respect and eveniindness. ,
By judicious plans, and diligence in their execution, Paul Cuffee
gradually increased his property, and by his integrity and consistency
of conduct, gained the esteem and regard of his fellow citizens. ' He'
had a share in two vessels, one a brig called the Traveller, of 162 tons
burden, commanded by his nephew, Thomas Wainer, and the ship
Alpha, of 268 tons burden, of which he was the commander; the rest
of the crew consisted of seven men of colour.
He had made application to be united with the religious Society of
Friends, and was admitted into membership with that body. For
several years he had turned his attention to the colony of Sierra Leone,
being induced to believe, by his communications from Europe, as well
as from other sources, that endeavours to contribute to its welfare, and
to promote the best interests of his fellow men in that portion of the
globe, might not be ineffectual."
In the Sixth Month of 1810, he addressed the following letter to
some Friends at Philadelphia, who transmitted a copy of it to their
correspondents in this country: —
" Esteemed Friends,
Taking into consideration my former prospects of a voyage to Sierra
Leone, if God permits, and my friends see with me, it looks as though
such a voyage, or visit, may be undertaken this coming fall. It would
feel very pleasant to me if some solid Friend could feel truth-to open
the way to accompany me, as I may have need of advice ; yet I trust
the good and allwise Adviser never fails those who are truly dependent
on him, and on him alone. I am, your ever well-wishing friend,
Paul Cuffee."
He was encouraged by the Monthly Meeting to which he belonged
to prosecute his concern. The African Institution approved of his

1811. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 101
benevolent designs ; and he was further encouraged to procure a cargo
at Sierra Leone, and proceed with the Traveller, to this country. For
this purpose it was necessary for him to be furnished with a license, for
the importation of African produce, as according to our navigation laws,
no articles can be brought to this country in an American vessel, either
direct from the place of its growth, or from any other country, without
express permission.
W. Wilberforce kindly interested himself in this subject, and in a
letter to William Allen, says —
"I have already conversed with Mr. Stephen on the subject of Paul
Cuffee, and he concurs with me in thinking that the best course to be
pursued will be for you, or some one else on his behalf, to draw up a
memorial to the Right Honourable the Lords of his Majesty's Privy
Council, who act as a Board of Trade, stating his intentions and wishes,
and requesting such encouragement as will enable him to execute his
plan with profit."
The requisite document was granted in a very friendly manner,' and
on the seventh of Third Month, William Allen says —
" Wrote to Paul Cuffee, enclosing the order in council, and a letter
to A. Macaulay, — -put it into the hands of Z. Macaulay, who engaged
to commit it to the care of his brother."
Paul Cuffee sailed from America, for Sierra Leone, the beginning of
1811, and arrived in Liverpool, with his cargo from the latter place,
about the middle of the Seventh Month. He came in thebrig « Traveller,"
navigated by eight men of colour, and an apprentice boy. Some alarm
was at first excited by the occurrence of a circumstance which is thus
described by William Allen, in a letter to Thomas Clarkson : 
"London, 15th of Seventh Month, 1811.
" Dear Thomas Clarkson,
-"I received a letter from Paul Cuffee this morning, from Sierra Leone,
stating that when mine reached him with the order in council, he was
upon the point of sailing' for America, but that he had altered his inten
tion, and determined to come to this country, The same post brought
me a letter from Thomas Thompson, informing 'me that he arrived in
Liverpool, after a passage of sixty days; but that on entering the
dock, a press-gang came on board, and examined the crew, most of
whom had protections, two were bound to hira by indenture, and one
of these was taken away. His name is Aaron Richards, a shipwright
of Sierra Leone, whom Paul took solely for the purpose of teaching him
navigation, with a view to benefit the colony. Thou mayest be sure
that on receiving this information I made the best of my way to Macaulay,
who said he was glad to see me, and thought it only candid to show me
a paragraph in a letter which he had received from Smith, the Judge
Advocate (or some such title) at Sierra Leone, and that said Smith was

102 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1811.
a most respectable person: I read with- astonishment that he wished
Macaulay to be on his guard against "any representations that Captain
Cuffee might make, as no credit whatever should be attached to any
thing he might say,— that, he (Smith) had treated Cuffee with great
kindness on his arrival, and had rendered him most essential service,
but the result was, that he had never known a more mercenary or un
principled man, except perhaps a slave-trader. I told Macaulay that
these were general assertions, but that, as the charge was one of a most.
serious nature, it would not be right to credit it without a particular
proof, but that the business at present was to procure the liberation of
Aaron Richards. He promised to go immediately to Stephen about it,
and I told him I should see Brougham on the subject, and this I have
done. It appears odd that a press-gang should be waiting to take only
this man out of the ship ; it is further remarkable that Smith showed
every kindness and attention to Cuffee till he found him determined to
come to England, at least it strikes me so. Had I not better write to
Cuffee to come immediately to town ? He is now at Thomas Thomp
son's, Liverpool. Waiting to hear from thee by return of post,
I remain, &c."
In a letter of the same date to T. Thompson, of Liverpool, W. Allen
says— - .
" Do ask Paul Cuffee whether he has reason to suspect any inimical
disposition in any person at Sierra Leone, for I have this day seen what
would have staggered me very much, if I did not place'the fullest con
fidence in the account which I have received from William Dillwyn of
Paul's general character."
The next day W. A. notes in his diary —
"To town by eight o'clock coach — found Paul Cuffee at Plough
Court, where I have invited him to take up his quarters. He is come
to town about the pressed man ; went up to William Smith's and the
Board of Trade about him.
Seventh Month 11th. — Meeting. Paul Cuffee was there and gave us
an exhortation, which, according to my feelings, was good. Dinner — •
Lancaster, and J. Fox. Lancaster's concerns are very trying at present ;
the city voted two hundred guineas for the building, and one hundred
guineas for general purposes, but our expenditure is, very great, and
J. L. not economical.
18th. — Went with Paul Cuffee to PalaCe Yard, to see Wilberforce,
who wrote a note to Croker, of the Admiralty, about the pressed
man. '
21th. — Walked to town by Islington ; spent about two hours at the
school. 29th. — T. Clarkson came to town on second-day on P. C'uffee's
business. We have got off Aaron Richards, the impressed man, and

1811. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 103
had an explanation with Macaulay. The memorial to the Board of
Trade was. signed by Smith, St. Barbe, and Martin.
30th. — Took leave of P. Cuffee in much nearness of spirit ; he is
certainly a very interesting man ; he is to set off for Liverpool to-morrow
morning," The kindness and liberality of Richard Reynolds induced him to
contribute, through William Allen, to various benevolent objects to
which he did not wish his name to appear as so large a donor, and
therefore various sums were given under different appellations or signa*
tures. This led to frequent correspondence between them, and W. A.
often gave many particulars of the subjects referred to. In writing to
R. R. on the present occasion, he says, in allusion to Paul Cuffee —
" I have not been disappointed in the information which I expected
to derive from him.
He says that the country about Sierra Leone is remarkably fertile, and
that the sugar cane would grow there as well as in the West Indies, so
that instead of paying a quarter of a dollar per pound for sugar, they
might have plenty for exportation. Coffee grows wild in the desert.
Cotton, indigo, and rice, are indigenous. They seem to have a good
stock of cattle. The grass grows abundantly in the rainy season, and to
the height of ten feet;
Clarkson and I are both of the mind that the present opportunity for
promoting the civilization of Africa, through' the means of Paul Cuffee,
should not be lost ; he seems like a man made on purpose for the
business ; he has great experience as well as integrity ; he is returned
to Liverpool to dispose of his cargo, and also to take care of another
vessel of which he is part owner, and which arrived at Liverpool one
day after him. We are soliciting an order in council for him to return
in the Traveller to Sierra Leone, and to be protected from British
cruizers in his passage from thence to America. To accomplish this
we have put all our springs in play, but the season is inauspicious, as
our most powerful friends are out of town. I particularly regret the
absence of Earl Bathurst, the President of the Board of Trade.
I must now advert to the school concern : — We have at present
nearly forty lads boarded and clothed at the Borough Road, and train
ing for schoolmasters ; among them we have two African youths, sent
from Sierra Leone, by the Crocodile frigate, which sailed at the same
time as the Traveller ; they came in consequence of the offer made by
our school committee to the African Institution. We have also a pro
mising young man, a Dane, training on Lancaster's plan, designed for
a schoolmaster at Copenhagen. He was a prisoner of war, but hand
somely given up by our government for this particular purpose. One
of Lancaster's missionaries is gone to Ireland, and he is to follow in a
few weeks, under the patronage of those connected with government.

104 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1811.
Another of his best young men is engaged by the Americans to open a
model school upon the plan, at George Town near Washington. The
applications from the country are numerous. Our school room in
Spitalfields is to be completed in a fortnight, and we are promoting a
school for several hundreds in Westminster. Indeed the work-goes on
in all directions exactly as we could wish, or more properly far beyond
what we could have expected. Nothing discourages us but the una
voidably heavy expense which we are obliged to encounter. The
average of our expenditure is sixty pounds per week ; our income from
subscriptions about twenty pounds ; occasional donations, say nearly
equal-; but if we could make the annual subscriptions three thousand
pounds we should be quite at ease, and able gradually to pay off the
advances. "When we see that the Society of Friends can raise between
two and three thousand pounds for the British prisoners in France, I
can but wish that means could be contrived to interest them as strongly
in the good that is to be done at their own doors, and by which they
could not fail to be themselves benefited."
It was deemed advisable for Paul Cuffee again to come to London,
in order to meet the Board of Directors of the African Institution : after
his. arrival, a special meeting was called^ in reference to which William
Allen says —
" Eighth Month 21th. — Went up with Paul Cuffee and George Har
rison, to attend the Board of the African Institution. There was a
larger meeting than we. had reason to expect. I was called upon to
state the business, which I endeavoured to do as briefly as possible
Paul was then called in, and introduced to the Duke of Gloucester,
who asked him several question's, as did others also: he returned very
sensible and satisfactory answers, and his simplicity and strong natural
good sense, made a great impression upon all parties. The Duke ap
peared much gratified, and after Paul Cuffee had withdrawn, a vote of
thanks was passed to him, and a committee appointed to see what use
might be made of him. On the whole it was a most gratifying meeting,
and fully answered, and even exceeded all we could have hoped.
Macaulay had Paul to dine with him on second-day, and gave him a
letter to Governor Maxwell, of Sierra Leone, and also to Judge Smith,
which I hope will soften the latter. Captain Clarke, from New Bed
ford, dined with me on fifth-day, and brought me a letter from William
Rotch, in which Captain Cuffee is mentioned as a person ,highly^
esteemed there ; and Captain Clarke says, he has known him from a
boy, and that a person of greater integrity and honour in business, he
never met with. I did not give the smallest hint which might call
forth this declaration.
Eighth Month 28th. — Meeting. — P. Cuffee in prayer, and afterwards
E. J. F. most excellently. I was very busy in getting seeds and

1811. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 105
various articles together for him, and presented him with a telescope.
We had an affecting parting, as it is not very probable we shall see
him any more. He has left a wife and eight children, and a profitable
business in which he was engaged, to forward the views of the African
Institution, and this, at the risk of his person and property.
Ninth Month 16th  Left home with my family on -second-day, for
the Isle of Wight, for a little relaxation after my exertions in the course
of the year. On the journey I felt my mind peaceful, though it re
quired some struggle to break off from my numerous engagements.
Mem — Resolved to set myself more at liberty, by employing other
persons to do the mechanical parts of what lies upon me."
For the last year or two, William Allen's family had had the addi
tion of two nephews of hiswife(, Daniel and Cornelius Hanbury, who
were engaged in the business at Plough Court.
" 23rd. — Though absent from business, I have been pretty busily em-
ployed-in taking angles and calculating them, which has considerably
-improved me in trigonometry. "
Notices occasionally occur respecting the comet, and the right ascen
sion of different stars, with other astronomical observations.
Soon after returning home, W. A. writes —
"Favoured with a sense of the natural depravity of the human heart,
with secret petitions for ability to overcome it."
And again—
" Humbled at times with a view of what I am by nature, and a clear
sight that all good, even every good desire, is an emanation from above.
I must learn to bear with, and still love my brethren, even when I
think they are acting upon mistaken principles. 0, how must that
Great Being who is truth itself, pity and bear with even those who are
supposed to think and act most correctly ! Let all flesh be humbled
before Him.
Tenth Month 21st. — Study  Reading for lectures neglected, not
withstanding the strong resolutions last week, but must not give up
trying. I spent, however, about six hours at it, out of the ten proposed.
Mathematics ; quadratic equations with Dr. Bradley ; astronomy —
some progress at Newington'; attended to African specimens and P.
Cuffee's business.
The concerns of Africa continued to engage much of William Allen's
time after the departure of Paul Cuffee. He opened a correspondence
with John Kizell, a native of Sierra Leone, to whom he sent presents
of different articles likely to be useful in the colony, including seeds,
books, &c, and he had specimens of indigo, substitutes for hemp, &c,
sent to him for examination. He says — '
«'Dr. Roxburgh, of Calcutta, has forwarded some more seeds to
Sierra Leone, and among them a species, of aloe tree, the wood of which,

106 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1812.
Lord Valencia says, frequently sells for its weight in silver, being highly
valued as a perfume. This explains some passages in scripture, as
' trees of lign aloes,' — ' aloes with all the chief spices/ &c.
Eleventh Month 4th. — -The progress of the comet is such that every
hour it moves 4' in space.
On fourth-day a private and religious exhortation from a female
minister, encouraging me to devote more of my time and talents to the
best of causes, and reminding me of how much I had received. I trust
the counsel was given and taken in the spirit of gospel love.
25th  A time of spiritual comfort and refreshment in the meeting
on fourth-day, when Mary Dudley, towards the close, had a consoling
communication to a state of distress — 'faint yet pursuing.'
Twelfth Month 9th.— Mary Sterry thought it right to query with nie,
whether I was not called upon to declare more publicly on whose side
I am : — -but this must be left.
Twelfth Month 10th.— Spitalfields soup committee. We think, we
must begin our operations there, as bread is now one shilling. and six
pence per quartern, and many of the manufacturers are without work
from a scarcity of silk. Appointed a sub-committee to inquire into the
extent of the distress, and report.
12th. — Agreed to begin the distribution of soup on the thirtieth.
Went with W. B. to pay in the last of the subscriptions for British
prisoners in France.
First Month 25th, 1812. — Much engaged this week in preparing for
the opening of Spitalfields school on the third of next month.
31st. — John Davis has been employed at my house all this week
arranging and entering soup recommendations in a book.
Much relieved by receiving a letter from Paul Cuffee ; he has arrived
safe at Sierra Leone.
Second Month 3rd. — Spitalfields school opened. W. Phillips and
Gurney Barclay were my colleagues ; we got through very well. Har-
rod the master finished classing, — numbers two hundred and seventy-
seven. 1th. — Meeting for Sufferings; rather comfortable, and, a wish
cherished that my thoughts might be such as should be acceptable to
Him who sees in secret.
11th — Davis has begun his travels among the poor, and I have
great reason to think that the plan will answer most important pur
poses. A book is preparing for me to make a fair entry of the real
cases of distress.
20th — Posting up my book of cases among Spitalfields poor, from
Davis's reports. A distressing tale of woe ; spirits much depressed. -
22nd.— Still under depression ; my little stockof faith almost ex
hausted, and yetl can humbly say> in the multitude of things which

1812. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 107
harass my mind, the main object is the good of others ; for this I have,
in great measure, given up my own gratification ; for if, instead of
these things, my time were devoted to philosophical pursuits and
experiments, to which I am so naturally prone, the path to honour and
distinction stands fair before me. May the sacrifice be accepted above !
HospitaL-ichemical lecture, No. 1 ; Lancaster's committee at four ;
spent the evening with Davis posting up books.
Second Month 21th. — Pepys called, to tell me of Warburton's dis
covery, that if all the positive ends and all the negative ends of a voltaic
series are united, a number of small plates will have the same effect as
large ones in melting and burning.
28th. — Went with Joseph Fox to Cripplegate, to meet Alderman
Wood's committee, on a new school for one thousand children ; after
which walked through the mud to Newington ; got in about ten
o'clock. TJiird Month 1th. — Great part of this week spent in public service ;
a little comfort when I turn my mind inward and appeal to the Searcher
of Hearts as to my motives, though I am often deeply discouraged.
13th  Spitalfields School Committee, very satisfactory ; six hun
dred and thirty-six, total admitted. On second-day enjoyed the com
pany of some valuable characters, whose hearts and affections are fixed
upon the better country, and we were refreshed together.
23rd. — A degree of calm, and something of a comfortable evidence
that in my public movements, I am in the way of my duty.
Fourth Month 14th. — African Institution — Macaulay resigned his
office of secretary, and Thomas Harrison is appointed."
W. Allen was much interested in the letters he received from Africa,
and, in a letter to the Duke of Gloucester^ soliciting permission to lay
them before him, he observes —
" The visit of Paul Cuffee to Africa was a spontaneous movement
on his part, and no plan of mine ; but the certificates to his character
were so strong, and the prospect of beneficial co-operation on his part
so flattering, that I could but encourage his views. The results have
justified my most sanguine expectations ; I see now that the colonists
of Sierra Leone want only a stimulus to their industry, that they are
looking to us for it, and that we can afford it without the slightest in
convenience to ourselves. The present opportunity, through the medium
of Paul Cuffee, seems to be providentially afforded."
The Duke was much pleased with the letters, and in returning them,
sent the following reply : —
" The Duke of Gloucester, in acknowledging his receipt of Mr.
Allen's letter of the sixteenth inst., has to return him many thanks for
the very interesting correspondence he has sent to him, which the Duke
of Gloucester has perused with much satisfaction, and he perfectly con-

108 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1812.
curs with Mr. Allen in feeling the propriety of giving every stimulus to
the industry of the colonists at Sierra Leone; and in considering Cap
tain Paul Cuffee's visit to Sierra Leone, as a very fortunate circumstance,
through which much good may be effected."
The African cord, made of the substitute for hemp before referred
to, proved very strong, and the samples of indigo were found about
half as good as that sold by the East India Company at four shillings
and eight pence per pound, and quite as" -good as that which was first
brought over to England by the Company.
The 20th of Fourth Month W. A. writes—
"I have engaged a person to keep the minutes and books of Lan
caster's concerns, which I hope will be a relief to me.
28th  Lecture at the Hospital — experimental philosophy, No. 24;
conclusion of the course : finished with remarks on scepticism, &c.
Fifth Month 6th. — Conference with Joseph Fox, who has this- day
had an interesting interview with the Dukes of Kent and Sussex at
their own request.
9th. — Lancaster's general meeting at the Freemasons'. Tavern. J.
L. gave some particulars of his Irish journey. There was too much
bombast, but it was nevertheless an impressive account, and he made
some remarkably good hits. The Duke of Kent was in the chair, and
the Duke of Sussex was also present. They both did themselves great
credit by their able conduct..
I have been very much taken up this week with school concerns
and the association for the relief of distress in Spitalfields, so that I
could find very little time for my own affairs, but I feel that I am in
the way of my duty,, — my aim never was to accumulate riches.
Fifth Month 11th. — Percival was shot dead at the door of the House
of Commons by a person named Bellingham, from Liverpool.
18th — First visit to cases in Spitalfields with T. F. Buxton."
William Allen had for some weeks been much engaged in arranging
plans to facilitate the measures in progress for affording assistance to
the destitute population of this district, and in writing to Richard Rey
nolds on the subject, he says—
" We have established an association for the relief of some of the
most distressed cases, which are marked in the statement of the late
investigation in Spitalfields. The committee consists of about forty
members, who meet at my house. We have already raised nearly three
hundred pounds, and have divided the cases amongst us. A large
committee of ladies has also been formed, whose office it is fo attend
to such cases of their own sex as are sent to them from the gentlemen's
committee. The whole of Spitalfields and its vicinity is divided into
eighteen districts, each under the care of a sub-committee of two or
more ; by this arrangement, whenever a case of great distress is re-

1812. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 109
ceived, it is forwarded to the sub-committee in whose district the
street is situated. We have every reason to believe, by what we see
and hear in our rounds, that the soup charity has prevented hundreds,
particularly children, from starving."
The great distress which at this time prevailed amongst the labour
ing poor, in many of the manufacturing districts, in different parts of
the country, led to the formation of a society in London, to aid the
local associations in endeavouring to afford them relief. On the 23rd
of Fifth Month, W. A. says—
"Attended a meeting at one o'clock, held at the Freemasons'
Tavern, on account of the distressed poor. The Dukes of York, Kent
and Cambridge were present, with many of the nobility, &c."
Several resolutions were adopted, a subscription was entered into,
and a committee appointed, of which William Allen was one. This
was during the time Of the Yearly Meeting, and, with Spitalfields and
school concerns, it gave him very close occupation. On the 26th he
writes —
" Yearly Meeting. A proposition was^ brought forward by J. G.
Bevan, to consider the propriety of preparing a petition on the subject
of war, which, after weighty consideration, was agreed to, and a
committee appointed.
Fifth Month 28lh. — Soup Committee at eight o'clock: concluded
to continue the distribution through the Sixth Month, on account of the
distress in Spitalfields.
Sixth Month 1st.— The Yearly Meeting closed on seventh-day at
two o'clock, under a precious covering; this sitting at its opening was
brought into deep sympathy with Henry Hull, now on a religious visit
to this country from America, he having just received an account of the
sudden death of his wife and son, with other members of his family, of
a raging contagious disease. The intelligence was communicated to
the meeting by Stephen Grellet, from New York, now on a religious
visit to this country. An Address to the Prince Regent on the subject
of war was read, and agreed to, and left for the Meeting for Sufferings
to present.
2nd.— Went with Fox to attend the Duke of Kent, by particular
desire ; explained the state of Spitalfields, and the object of the asso
ciation, also the proceedings of the general society. Digesting a report
from letters on the distress of the country."
In writing to a friend soon after this period, W. A. says 
"I have lately been much engaged in the affairs of the society for
the relief of the labouring and manufacturing poor. All the letters from
different parts of the country are put into my hands, in order to digest
the information, which is afterwards fairly entered under the different

110 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1812.
heads, in a book kept for that purpose. The whole forms. a most
valuable body of information relative to the state of the poor."
"6th.— Sub-committee op distressed poor at Butterworth's, at eleven,
after which went with J. Smith, J. Foster, and J. Eliot, Jun., to the
Under Secretary of State, at Whitehall, with a copy of the Address of
the Yearly Meeting, on the subject of war. -Pollock introduced us fo
H. Goulburn, Becket being out of the way ; we were well received,
and left the Address.
Sixth Month 8th. — Most of my time is taken up with societies for
the relief of the distressed poor, engaged also about an arbitration, the
African Institution committee, &c, &c. The times are very awful, the
wheels of government can hardly go on, great fears of a war with
America. On occasions of public calamity, Friends' post must be the
care of the poor and the relief of distress. Though I feel at times
uneasy at being obliged to neglect my own private concerns, yet I am
not without a comfortable degree of evidence that I am in the way of
my duty.
19th. — The Friends appointed to present the Address to the Prince
Regent on the subject of war, met at Plough Court. I had a very bad
headache, and proposed John Wilkinson or Joseph Foster to read it,
but the lot fell upon me, and after a little time I became rather better.
We arranged ourselves in the order of, seniority, except that I, being
reader, went first. We arrived at Carlton House a little after three,
but were refused admittance, the page informing us that the levee was
oven I, however, got out of the carriage and went, in by the little
door on the left of Carlton House ; here I saw the porter, who informed
me that the Prince had been asking for us about half an hour. Lord
Sidmouth came up and was very civil, asking if my friends were here,
and desiring them to come in ; I accordingly went for them, and we all
drew up in the great. hall. I found, that the levee was much shorter
than usual, and that the plan was, for the Prince to receive us in his
closet. Our hats were taken off, and we had to wait about ten minutes ;
in the interim the Duke of Cambridge passedand kindly noticed us,
as did also the Duke of Kent. Lord Sidmouth soon introduced us ;
the Prince was standing near the window, and by him his royal brothers,
many others were also in the room, with the great officers of the house
hold. I put the address into the Prince's hand, who returned it to me,
saying, 'You will read it;' he seemed very attentive, and inclined his
head several times at the periods. When read, I again presented it to
him, and he put it into the hand of one of the Lords in waiting. He
then took a paper, containing his answer, out of his 'pocket, and read
it in a very distinct and firm manner, and when done he put it into my
hand ; we then respectfully withdrew, keeping our faces towards him.

1812. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. Ill
We may say that we, were very graciously received, and that all went
off extremely well, which was a cause of thankfulness.
The Address and answer were published in the Gazette of the next
night. Every day this week has been occupied by some public concern.
Seventh Month 3rd. — Meeting for Sufferings — dinner, J. Fox, W.
Phillips, &c, &c. Tea, Lancaster's committee; J. Walters brought
George Bruce to the committee, an Englishman who has resided some
years in New Zealand, his face is curiously tattooed. He was brought
away by a Captain Dalrymple.
6th. — J. Lancaster has taken Salvador House, at Tooting ; we must
¦ now come to an understanding as to his public and private concerns.
26th. — Made a digest of letters for the association for the poor.
21th. — My spirits depressed on considering the state of the world,
and. the mass of evil and misery in it. I have longed for myself, to be
under a constant sense that God is ever present, and sees my most
secret thoughts. My mind has been reverently turned to Him, even as
I have walked the streets of this great city, with prayers that I may
know his will, and be strengthened to endeavour to fulfil it.
Eighth Month. — Things look still more gloomy; the President of
the United States has confirmed the vote of the Senate for war.
By the last accounts Bonaparte was still near Wilna ; every thing is
carried away or destroyed as he approaches towards Petersburgh; his
army, nearly half a million, must cover the land like locusts.
Horrid scenes are daily exhibited.
6th. — The first meeting of the London Auxiliary Bible Society was held
at the Egyptian Hall, Mansion House, to-day. It was a most respecta
ble one, and very satisfactory ; the Lord Mayor was in the chair, and
N. Vansittart, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, &c, &c, present ;
about one thousand six hundred persons attended ; a glorious day.
Eighth Month 8th  Went to Dr. Marcet's to dinner with Professor
Berzelius, of Stockholm, Wollaston, Pepys, Dr. JBabington, War-
burton, &c, &c-
11th. — I have been unwell for some time past, with an uneasy feeling
about the heart, arising, I doubt not, from too great fatigue and
exertion ; but I hope our journey to Hastings will be the means of
restoring me.
Still panting, at times, for closer communion with my great Creator
and Preserver, with strong desires that he would enlighten my mind,
and enable me to promote his work in the hearts of others ; without
his favour and countenance, all earthly enjoyments are vanity, and
science, foolishness."
Whilst at Hastings, William Allen wrote a long letter to his friend,

112 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 181$.
Richard Reynolds, stating the progress of several benevolent under
takings, in which they felt a mutual interest.
"Our Spitalfields association," he says, "is now completely organ
ized, and is relieving much misery, though we can but regret our
inability to do more. My friend, Samuel Hoare, Jun., who nobly exerts
himself in the cause of the poor, has taken two small houses in the
centre of Spitalfields, which he lets to the committee. Here we have
fitted up a shop to sell salt-fish (cod) at twopence per pound ; salt pork
at fourpence, &c. These articles of food are only sold at present to
those who produce tickets from the visiting committees: but the pres
sure is so great that I am apprehensive it will be best for us soon to
sell the salt cod to all who will come for it. We get the fish for eighteen
pounds per ton, of the association for the relief and benefit of the
labouring and manufacturing poor, by whose order W. Hale and myself
have signed contracts for two hundred tons, beside a cargo of herrings
which we expect to be able to sell at the rate of four or five for a penny.
While employed in performing what our hands find to do in'the little
circle around us, and judging of the extent of human misery, by that
small portion which falls within our own sphere, we naturally sigh for
some wholesale method of doing good ; and I am not without hopes
that some public spirited Members of Parliament will take up the subject
of the Poor Laws before long. In that case a collection of facts
will be of the utmost importance. All these objects, however, are in
my mind only secondary to the great cause of the geheral education of
the poor. If the population generally could be rendered virtuous, a
large portion of the present misery would disappear. Wise measures
must be taken for ameliorating the condition of mankind, and I look
upon the universal diffusion of knowledge, the general spread of the
Holy Scriptures, and the exertions of wise and good men in different
directions, to promote the happiness of their fellow-creatures, as the
first grand step towards the abolition of war.
The establishment at the Borough Road is producing all the good
which we calculated upon. Masters are continually going out to new
schools, and the number now in training is little, if at all less than forty.
My poor friend Fox is under an afflictive dispensation, his valuable
wife being alarmingly ill, but his mind is firmly anchored on that which
has always been found to be an unfailing support.
We were some time ago much surprised to hear that J. Lancaster
had taken Salvador House at Tooting, without consulting any of his
friends ; we, of course, took an early opportunity to come to an expla
nation, when he candidly informed us that he considered this under
taking as perfectly distinct from his public work, that if it had been at
all connected with it he would not have failed to ask our advice, but

1812. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 113
that as he had been giving up the best part of his life to the public,
without fee or reward, and had even incurred great responsibility, he
thought it was high time to consider the claims which his child, his
aged parent, and other branches of his family, had upon him for sup
port. That his plan was to take fifty boarders at forty-two pounds per
annum, half a year to be paid in advance, that he had a private friend,
whose name he must not disclose, who had agreed to lend him eight
hundred or a thousand pounds to fit out, and that he had a fair pros
pect of making the concern not only answer his pecuniary purposes,
but, at the same time, promote the great cause which he still had
deeply at heart. We find he has engaged a very clever young man,
who is' a good classical scholar, and was educated under Dr. Valpy, of
Readings a person well known in the literary world,- and to this young
man's knowledge Lancaster is to adapt his machinery. I think, before
I left town, he had thirty applications.
On considering all these circumstances, Fox and I were clearly of
the mind that the time was now come for drawing a close and strong
line between Joseph Lancaster, and the great public work, for however
feasible his private scheme might be, it was still possible that it might
fail, and if this should, unhappily, be the case, it would be a great re
proach to him, and to us as guardians of the subscriptions, if these
should be laid hold of to pay his private debts. On conversing with
J. L. we found him strongly disposed to put the public work into our
hands entirely, provided we would exonerate him from all claims on
that account, which, on maturely considering the subject, we agreed to
do, upon certain conditions.
In these conditions it was arranged that —
<< The public work, hitherto carried on in the name of Joseph Lan
caster, .was to be in future conducted solely by the committee.
J. L. to do his utmost to promote the public work, by superintending
the training of masters and mistresses, at the Borough Road, and in
every other way which shall not incur expense.
The committee will not be responsible for any expenses which they
have not expressly warranted.
The family, and every thing at the Borough Road, to be solely under
the direction of the committee.
Every thing to be ordered, and all bills made out in the name of the
Committee of the Royal British, or Lancasterian System of Education.
, J. Lancaster to make over the premises at the Borough Road, and all
the property there, (an inventory of which shall be taken) to the trus
tees as security for their advances, &c."
' William Allen adds —
"I cannot but think, the public will have more confidence in the
Vol. I. 8

114 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1812.
new arrangement, and that we shall be able to do full as much good
with less expense.
Our new, school in Spitalfields is quite full and in high credit."
In a letter td Joseph Foster, written about the same time, W. A.
says —
" Of all the concerns that I have anything to do with, the Lancas
terian lies the most heavily upon my mind. I see by the minutes
which are sent down to me, that poor Fox unites the whole committee
in his own person. I know it would be a comfort to him if thou couldst
attend, and particularly now that the important arrangements between
J. L. and us are forming. I am very desirous that We should take him
while he is disposed to do what I think will tend more to promote the
public work than almost any measure we have adopted since our exist
ence as a Committee."
" Eighth Month 25th. — I think the journey to Hastings seems likely
to answer the purpose of benefiting my health, though the uneasiness
about the heart is far from removed. If favoured to return home, I
must allot time for particular purposes, and take double care not to
over-load myself with engagements, as a constant round of occupation
is injurious to mind and body. The following great objects are enough
for one man, and I must resist all attempts to engage me in more,
viz : — the Overseership of Gracechurch Street Monthly Meeting ;' Lan
caster's concern ; Spitalfields Local Association for the Poor ; Spital
fields School ; Philanthropist ; Lectures ; General Association for the
Poor ; Bible Society."
When at Hastings, W. Allen finished a paper which he had been
preparing for the " Philanthropist," " On the Vice of Detraction."
He was himself peculiarly guarded on this point, and if he Observed
any tendency towards it in conversation, his kind and gentle warning
often acted as a salutary check. The object of the paper is to caution
persons against the evil in question, as the following extracts will
show : —
"Detraction is the natural infirmity of little minds, whose envy is
excited by the contemplation of talents superior to their own, or of vir
tues which they will not take the pains to imitate : but those who feel
mortified by a consciousness of inferiority of talent, should reflect, that
none can aspire to a greater honour than the approbation of Him who
dispenses his gifts in such proportion as He sees meet, and requires
nothing but a due application of what He has bestowed, whether it be
more or less. Minds devoid of true courage are also prone to detrac
tion, and even persons not destitute of benevolent feelings, are apt to
fall into this vice through inadvertence.-
The affections and sympathies of our nature, and the consciousness

1812. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 115
of the need of mutual support, are the bonds which connect mankind
in society. The individuals of which it is composed are necessarily
dependent on each other, and that not merely in a pecuniary point of
view, but as regards those comforts and refined pleasures which alone
render society desirable. It becomes our interest then, as it assuredly
is our duty, to study and promote the happiness of those with whom
we are connected, and that not only upon great occasions, which sel
dom occur, but particularly in those daily and minute incidents which
chiefly mark the course of our lives. A gloomy look and sullen
silence, where there are no obvious reasons for it, strike a damp
through the cheerful Circle, and the individual has only the melancholy
satisfaction of having made others uncomfortable as well as himself.
Much indeed depends upon the manner in which we conduct ourselves
even in actions otherwise indifferent, and the same words pronounced
in different tones produce opposite effects. A rigid and austere car
riage-is a great draw-back from those whose virtue commands our
esteem. Esteem and love, however, are different things, and the latter
is only secured by unaffected gentleness of manners and a constant
attempt to direct all our words and actions to promote the comfort and
happiness of others. This is true politeness and nothing more than
what Christianity requires. We are commanded to love our neigh
bours as ourselves, and if we do this sincerely, we shall be very care
ful of throwing out any insinuations which may tend to their prejudice.
Perhaps nothing is more destructive to the peace, and even the com
fortable existence of society, than detraction. Hence, in the sacred
writings, ' whisperers and backbiters' are classed among the ' workers
of iniquity,' and as their mischief is so insidious, they should be as
carefully avoided as persons more openly wicked. 'Thou shalt not
curse the deaf,' was a law promulgated from the highest authority ;
and this law, so far from being abrogated, is strengthened and extend
ed by the christian dispensation. The spirit of this injunction prohibits
any attack upon a person not in a situation to defend himself, as is the
case with those who are absent."
The paper concludes with that precept of our holy religion, — " What
soever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them."
" Ninth Month 22nd. — Favoured to return home ih safety, and felt
thankful in finding that things have apparently gone on well during my
absence. 28th. — Islington school committee. Digest of letters. A cabinet with
J. Fox, about our arrangements with Lancaster.
30^.— General elections are beginning all over the country.
Tenth Month 3rd. — Took my seat at the Board of Managers of the
London Institution."
Astronomy was so favourite a recreation with W. A. that he had an

116 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1812.
observatory erected at the top of the house, at Stoke Newington, which
was finished this month ; but he several times afterwards notices the
weather being too cloudy to use it. His correspondence relative to
Africa, with exertions on behalf of the colonists, at Sierra Leone, formed
an important part of his engagements at the present time, and being
very desirous of promoting the cause of civilization, by forwarding their
commercial interests, he sent a consignment of goods, amounting to
about seventy pounds, to the Friendly Society of Sierra Leone, and to
John Kizell, with permission for them to return the amount in rice,
Indian corn, &c. He offered himself to be their agent in London, and
engaged the kind services of W. and R. Rathbone, of Liverpool, on
their behalf. In writing to Paul Cuffee at Westport, Massachusetts,
W. A. remarks, in reference to the war-like proceedings then going
forward —
" It is painful to see America, which has so long flourished under
pacific councils, at last plunge herself into that vortex of misery which
has swallowed up so many nations."
Review of the week —
" Some spiritual refreshment.
How infinite in wisdom and power is the Creator of all things ! and
how little can the utmost stretch of human intellect discover of his
wonderful works! and yet this exalted Being has condescended to
promise to reveal himself to the contrite and humble seeker after him.
How infinitely transcendent then is the knowlege of God, and the con
sciousness of his countenance and support, to all other knowledge,
however useful in its place."
The review of the following week says —
" A week full of engagements. Received letters from Africa and from
Paul Cuffee."
And on the 19th, W. A. writes —
" A little spiritual comfort in looking forward to the final close of all
things here.
Eleventh Month. — Began my lectures this week at the Hospital. I
appear to feel much less when I get into them, than in the anticipation.
I have written some long letters to Africa and America, which have
lain heavily on my mind.
Bonaparte is said to be encountering serious difficulties in the neigh
bourhood of Moscow, and many seem confident that he will at last be
ruined ; but things have hitherto gone on in a manner so much beyond
all human calculation, that one hardly knows what to expect.
America appears decidedly hostile to this country ; it seems as if the
nations of the earth were seized with a spirit of infatuation, but who
shall say what are the designs of an overruling Providence ?
Eleventh Month 18th. — Zerah Colbourn, the extraordinary lad from

1812. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 117
America, came to take tea with me, and I examined him as to his calcu
lating powers ; they are truly prodigious, — he almost instantly gave the
cube-root of any nine figures proposed.
27^. — Went up to the African Institution, Suffolk street, and took
the Sierra Leone Correspondence to Thomas Harrison, to read. Lancas
ter's committee ; six o'clock, Spitalfields committee.
Twelfth Month. — Our Spitalfields association is relieving much misery,
though it is comparatively a small part of what actually exists. In the
course of a few weeks, we sold at the shop above twenty-one thousand
pounds weight of salt cod, at twopence per pound ; and are besides
selling from nine hundred to one thousand red-herrings every day, at
from two to three for a penny.
The distress in Spitalfields is greatly increased by the rise on potatoes ;
government have been sending off many thousand tons to Spain and
Portugal, as well as large quantities of corn and flour. The consequences
to the poor this winter will, I fear, be dreadful. I am informed that three
times more corn than usual has been already thrashed out since the
harvest, and yet markets continue to rise."
In writing to Richard Reynolds, respecting Sierra Leone, W. A.
says —
"Lhad an interview, a short time since, with a German missionary,
Leopold Butcher, who has been there, and is now on his way thither
again ; he is a most respectable man, well known to some of my friends ;
he says that the poor people there have not had a fair chance ; they have
been obliged to buy goods to traffic with at an enormous advance upon
the cost. Here, and to sell the articles they had purchased with these
goods, at such prices as certain persons chose to give them."
"1th. — Committee with J. Lancaster, Sir John Jackson, Joseph Fos
ter, W. Corston, and Vandercom : the deed was signed, though not
without a great deal of discussion.
After these arrangements the weekly committees, which hitherto had
been always held at Plough Court, met at the Borough Road, in order
that the family might come more immediately under notice.
Twelfth Month 18th. — Held a committee at the Borough Road ;
J. Foster, T. Sturge, and W. Corston present, also Joseph Lancaster ;
we went on very well till we came to that part of the minutes which
related to a plan for raising subscriptions in the country ; to this J. L.
strongly objected, on the general ground that some of his friends were
on the eve of raising a subscription for his own private use, and if we
solicited for the institution, we should stand in the way of his interest.
We would not, however, relinquish the principle of our right to solicit
aid from any quarter, for the support of the concern.
Bonaparte defeated in person near Smolensk ; it is thought he will
hardly escape. ,,

118 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1812.
21st. — Sketched out a report for the general association for the poor."
Professor Berzelius, of Stockholm, begged that William Allen would
revise the English manuscript of his work, entitled "A View of the
Progress and Present State of Animal Chemistry ;" his request was
complied with, and in the preface to this treatise, which was soon after
wards published, the writer says —
" If the translation, as it is hoped, has the merit of being correct, in
a scientific point of view, it is entirely owing to the kind assistance of
two literary friends, both members of the Royal Society , Dr. Thomas
Young, and Mr. William Allen, who have had the goodness to read
through and revise the whole. Dr. Young was well acquainted with
the original from having been engaged in abridging it for a work of his
own, and Mr. Allen's familiarity with every department of chemistry,.
rendered him particularly well qualified for appreciating the accuracy of
chemical language ; and the translator takes this opportunity of express
ing to both these gentlemen, his most sincere thanks for their very
valuable corrections."
" 31st  A meeting at six o'clock in the large meeting house, Bishops-
gate street, at the request of Stephen Grellet, for the poor of Spitalfields.
I accompanied our dear friend, not without some serious apprehensions
for the consequences of drawing so many together of such a description
of persons ; but I trusted under all in the goodness of the cause, though
at first it looked discouraging. The house was soon quite filled, and
great numbers, perhaps some hundreds, stood. Dear Stephen, though
at first interrupted with the noise, was favoured to deliver a very impres
sive address, and stood about an hour and a half. Dear William Forster
afterwards addressed the people, and John Abbott said a few words,
also dear Elizabeth J. Fry. Stephen was afterwards engaged in sup
plication, followed by E. J. Fry. This great concourse separated in a
remarkably quiet manner ; Stephen having very judiciously requested
those who had seats, to keep them till the passages were cleared. There
were a great number of women with infants in their arms ; considering
the nature of the company, I think they behaved very well, and I can
but hope that some were benefited. These words ran through my mind
afterwards, < The Lord be magnified,' "

1813. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 119

CHAPTER V.
1S13— 1814. — Appointed an Elder — Savings' Banks — Friends' Tract Society — Lecture —
Interview with the Dukes of Kent and Sussex about Lancaster — -Letter from the former
— Petition from Cardiff— Letter to Lord Sidmouth — Lecture— Conference with W. Wil
berforce about Sierra Leone — Lanark — Sierra Leone Settlers — Lascars — Peace Society
— Defeat of Bonaparte — Arrival of the Emperor of Russia and King of Prussia — Friends
present an Address to each — The Emperor attends Westminster Meeting — Interview of
Friends with him — Copies of Addresses — Religious, movement in Bavaria — Visit to Scot
land — Arrangements at New Lanark — Death of J. G. Bevan — Letter from Professor Hope.
" First Month. — My faith and hope a little revived, and I think I felt
strengthened by attending our dear friend Stephen Grellet, at the public
meeting for the poor, in Spitalfields, on fifth-day evening. O may the
Lord bind me more and more to his cause !
Business. John Barry took stock without me — this is the first time
for nineteen years, that I have not been actively engaged in it.
Thirty thousand Prussians are gone over to the Russians ; the latter
are said to have entered Wilna and taken all the magazines, two hun
dred cannon, twenty-four thousand French Prisoners, &c.
Bonaparte about to raise conscripts to the amount of two hundred
and fifty thousand men.
6th. — At work upon a digest of letters to the association for the relief
of the manufacturing and labouring poor, — fifty-five before me.
9th. — At Joseph Smith's — a very agreeable meeting with S. Grellet,
W. Forster, J. Butterworth, Stevens, &c, &C. Several letters from
the continent on religious subjects were read.
20th. — Went to the Freemasons' Tavern to attend the committee for
the relief of the distressed manufacturers. The Dukes of Kent and
Cambridge, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Lord Teignmouth, and
Wilberforce present.
23rd. — Went with Joseph Smith after Poynder, the Deputy Sheriff,
then to Newgate, and thence to Ford, the Ordinary, to obtain permis
sion for Stephen Grellet and William Forster to pay a religious visit to
the prisoners in Newgate. Ford very liberally gave hearty leave.
Newman, the gaoler, behaved very kindly. J. Smith and I accompa
nied our dear friends in a very trying visit to the four persons who are
to be executed on second-day.
First Month 24th — With S. Grellet to visit the prisoners in Poultry
Counter and Giltspur street.
25th. — Committee of Management, Spitalfields; Lancaster's com
mittee, Borough Road, at eleven ; three o'clock at Smith's to audit
accounts on 'Sunday School' committee; sub-committee of Bible
Society, Raven Row.
21th. — My name was proposed at a joint committee of the Monthly

120 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1813.
and Quarterly Meeting, (with that of dear Charlotte and others) as an
elder; this brought a weight over my mind ; I could have offered much
in every point of view to be excused, but. felt restrained from prevent
ing my name from going forward to the Monthly Meeting. My prayer
is, that I may be favoured with a clear evidence of the Lord's will, and
divine strength to perform it, that my faith and trust may be increased,
and that I may be preserved from becoming a mere dry and formal
professor. 29th. — Dear S. Grellet called and took an affectionate leave of me;
in a private opportunity he counselled me to give up to manifested duty,
hinting that it might prepare the way for a more public work which he
believed the Lord was designing me for; but 0, I fear lest I should
lose my little faith !
This month has been a very busy one, but John T. Barry has taken
almost the whole weight of the business off me.
Second Month 3rd  African Institution — Vansittart there; a very
full attendance.
10/A  Monthly Meeting. Dear Charlotte and I were appointed to
the office of Elder ; I was afraid to refuse, lest I should do wrong. .
C. Naudi, who is earnest about schools in Malta, dined with me.
11th  Capital punishment committee at Montagu's, Newman street."
John Murray, Jun., of New York, in addressing William Allen, in
reference. to the subject of capital punishment, says —
" I am glad to find that some of the philanthropists of your country
are concerting together to bring about an amelioration of your penal
code ; I wish you may persevere in this good work, with a zeal be
coming the magnitude of the subject. In the first stage of our move
ments we had many difficulties and discouragements to struggle with ;
the prejudices of some, the ignorance of others, and the prepossessions
of not a few, seemed at one time to counteract, or, by their influence,
to throw obstacles in the way of every attempt at improvement ; even
some men of enlightened minds could not, at first, be induced to sup
port the plan, but eventually, by steady and persevering attention to
the object, the voice of religion, reason, and humanity, gained the as
cendency, and even produced a conviction of its utility and accordance
with an enlightened policy, in minds, at one time, under? impressions
no way favourable to the undertaking."
In a letter to Richard Reynolds, written this month, W. Allen says—
" Hast thou turned thy attention lo the subject of a Bank for the
Poor, in which their little savings of three-pence or six-pence per week,
might accumulate for their benefit? I have consulted Morgan, the
great calculator, and he is to sketch me a plan. I am anxious to
connect something of this kind with our exertions for the poor in Spital
fields."

1813. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 121
"Second Month 12th. — A conference with W. and J. Forster and
several other Friends, about establishing a society for Friends' Tracts.
13</j.-^Sent for to Joseph Smith's, who was seized this afternoon
with a paralytic attack.
15th. — Committee of Bible Society, Spitalfields.
16th. — Called on Earl Spencer, at James's Palace, about Lancas
terian concerns, to take him the vote of thanks.
Committee on Lectures at London Institution.
11th. — Attended committee on distressed manufacturers, and general
meeting after it; the Duke of Kent took the chair, the Duke of Cam
bridge was also present, and the Archbishop of Canterbury; but a
small meeting — one thousand pounds raised.
Second Month 21st. — Joseph Fox is returned from Devonshire. His
mind seems preciously centred in resignation to the divine will, under
the loss of his pious and amiable wife.
Third Month 1st  Soup house, changing tickets ; a very laborious
work — we sold three thousand one hundred and fifty quarts, and many
went unserved.
5th. — Went to the opening of Wood's school in North street, for
one thousand children, then to attend a committee of Friends' tracts.
9th. — To Kensington Palace, at the request of the Duke of Kent, who
kindly made me take breakfast with him, and consented to become
President of the North East London Auxiliary Bible Society. We had
much free and interesting conversation on several topics. Called on
Wilberforce, Whitbread, &c, on the Apothecaries' Bill. This is a
new cause of anxiety, and much of the labour of opposing it will de
volve upon me.
12th. — Joseph Smith died about three o'clock this afternoon.
15th. — Went to Kensington Palace, and had a conference with the
Duke of Kent on the subject of the Bible meeting, which was very
satisfactory. Globe, Fleet street, four o'clock, committee on Apothecaries' Bill.
16th. — Hospital lecture, No. 7, then to the Old London Tavern, to
the first general meeting, to form the North East London Auxiliary
Bible Society. The room was crowded, and the Duke of Kent, nobly
supported by Lord Darnley, Lord Holland, Lord Gambier, &c. &c.
\8th — Lord Darnley called according to appointment. I showed
him the Lancasterian books, and he agreed to become an annual sub
scriber of ten guineas.
29th. — The Apothecarres' Bill withdrawn on account of the opposi
tion to it.
Fourth Month 10th  African Institution, large attendance, an inter
esting meeting on the subject of register act, &c. Dined at J. Fox's,

122 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1813.
Argyle street, with Lancaster, Sir J. Jackson, and W. Corston. —
Sett-led many things.
19th. — Finished my morning lectures on se.venth-day. I hope now
to get through other business, which has pressed, upon my. mind.
Fifth Month 8th. — To Freemasons' Tavern. Annual meeting of the
friends and supporters of the Lancasterian Institution. The Dukes of
Kent and Sussex there, and behaved nobly. The Marquis of Lans-
downe made an excellent speech, and Whitbread also — a very ani
mated meeting.
Preparing conclusion for lectures.
10th  Favoured in the night with a precious feeling of divine sup
port. ' He shall drink of the brook in the way : therefore shall he lift
up the head.' "
In the review of a week W. A. writes —
" At meeting on first-day morning, though low, a little comforted in
feeling, as I trust, something of the divine influence. As this is abode
under, we become partakers of the divine nature j but. by carelessness
and worldly-mindedness, we may, by little and little, lose this state,
and become, not only alienated from the life of God, but enemies to
religion. 11th. — Lecture at the Hospital, — experimental philosophy, No. 24.
All my lectures are now over for the season."
This course was concluded with the following remarks : —
"Here I complete the task Ihad undertaken, going through the dif-,
ferent departments of natural philosophy, and, as far as my abilities
and our limits would permit, have endeavoured to explain in a familiar
manner, those great and fundamental principles, which, as secondary
causes, are every moment producing the most astonishing effects ; their
simplicity, we have seen, is equal to their sublimity ; thus, the laws
that are acting upon the masses of matter with which we are more
immediately surrounded, are operating, at the same time, upon the
planetary bodies, and maintaining the harmony of the whole family of
worlds ; not one of these deviates from its appointed course ; each will
observe the even tenor of its way, until that power which commanded
and they appeared, shall declare their purpose to be accomplished.
The Deity is surrounding us — is ever present with us : what then shall
we say of that man, who, with constant miracles before his eyes, is
insensible of their great Author, and ashamed to acknowledge him in
his works ? with such I shall be content to be esteemed as a fool.
The indications of purpose and design, grand, beyond the utmost
conception of the human mind, press upon us from every side ; even
the smallest insect discoverable by the microscope, every blade of grass,
as well as the whole structure of the universe, bears the stamp of a
power and wisdom, which must be infinite.

1813. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 123
The operations of what we call nature, seem calculated to arrest the
attention of the most thoughtless, while, to the philosophic mind, they
supply an inexhaustible fund for contemplation ; and to such, one of
the most delightful of its occupations is, the investigation which tends
to the discovery of truth : the discoveries, however, which the most
scientific have been able to make, while they produce more enlarged
ideas of the attributes of the Supreme Being, tend also to convince us,
how little we really know, after all, and that infinity is still before us.
It seems to have been ordained, that the knowledge which is of most
consequence to us, should be most easy of access; thus, in the laws
of falling bodies, and in the equilibrium of the mechanical powers, we
see much that we can apply to the purposes of our comfort and conve
nience, while the veil is still continued over some of those secret springs,
with which it did not so much concern us to be acquainted ; we have
still some very imperfect notions of some of the great powers of nature,
andknow them only by their effects. This is particularly the case with
electricity ; though universally operating in a very powerful manner,
it is invisible, except as far as it acts upon light, and we are ignorant
of its real nature. We have even reason to suspect, that influential
and invisible substances may exist, of whose nature and operation we
are at present totally ignorant ; but while these considerations are cal
culated to humble the pride of man, they produce, in the well-ordered
mind, new motives for admiration, and additional ground for faith.
And seeing that He, who created the hosts of heaven, has condescended
to employ his omnipotence in the small as well as in the great, and we
also are the workmanship of his hand, let us rejoice in the belief that even
we shall not escape his notice amongst the myriads of created beings ;
and while we are thankful that he has endowed us with faculties to
comprehend a little of his wonderful works, let us ever remember, that
throughout these, he has manifested a marked design to provide for,
and promote the happiness of his creatures. It must therefore be con
sistent with his will, that we should employ the powers that he has
given us, in diffusing as much comfort and happiness in our respective
circles, and throughout his creation, as our abilities and peculiar situa
tions will permit."
"Fifth Month 23rd. — Dear Charlotte and I went down to Newing
ton, found that our dear cousin Mary Bevan had a strong convulsion
fit yesterday, that it subsided in the afternoon, but she remained insen
sible, and did not stir hand or foot till she quietly expired about a
quarter past seven this evening. Dear J. G. B. bore it like himself,
and I trust we were not without an evidence and solemn feeling of
divine regard.
29th. — I have attended the committees, as well as the meetings of the

124 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1813.
Yearly Meeting, and had great satisfaction in it — a precious feeling of
solemnity at the close.
31st  Friends' Tract Society instituted, many Friends from the
country present ; the rules were agreed to, and are to be printed.
Sixth Month 1th  Much taken up with society business.
12th. — Conference with Joseph Fox about school concerns. Lan
caster has got himself into much difficulty at Tooting, as we. feared he
would, and now he expects us to help him. We have to carry on the
great work through much tribulation.
11th. — Sent for by the Duke of Kent. Fox could not go, so I went
to Kensington alone ; told him the whole of the circumstances respect
ing J. L. He behaved very kindly, said that we must not give up the
cause, and promised his support to the new arrangements. He then
entered upon private confidential business on his own concerns."
Review of the week —
" Spirits low, but comforted a little at Morning Meeting on second-
day, and these words occurred to my mind with:a degree of sweetness, ,
' This is the vistory that overcometh the world, even our faith.'
Dear S. Grellet sailed in a cartel from Portsmouth for Morlaix on
fourth-day afternoon.
Fox and I are endeavouring to arrange a new and more extensive
constitution for the school concern.
Sixth Month 23rd. — To the Dukes of Kent and Sussex with Fox, on
the new constitution for carrying on the school, a very satisfactory in
terview, — they behaved nobly. An important day."
Thomas Shillitoe having felt it his religious duty to have some com
munication with N. Vansittart, respecting Ireland, W. A. writes on the
" 26th. — Went with T. Shillitoe to N. Vansittart, who received us
very kindly, and Thomas expressed what was on his mind with regard
to Ireland. N. V. gave us a letter to Peel, the Irish Secretary, who
was also very civil.
30th. — Meeting. Sweetly comforted.
Seventh Month 2nd. — To town at eight o'clock. About ten set off
in a post chaise with Wilson Lowry and Dr. Thompson for Tunbridge.
We reached R. J. Children's about four. There was a great assem
blage of English chemists, — Dr. Wollaston, Tennant, Davy, Hatchett,
&c. &c. &c. Thirty-eight of us dined together. Held a committee
which did not break up till between twelve and one. Children kindly
provided lodging for us all.
3rd — Very busy assisting in preparations for the experiments. The
battery consisted of twenty pieces of copper and zinc plates, six feet
by two feet eight; breadth of cells, two inches; distance between
each, four and a half inches : about one part acid to thirty of water, by

1813: OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 125
measure ^ the acid composed of three parts nitric, and one part sul
phuric; melted iridium, — the pure metal is easier melted than its ore;
we also performed many other experiments. Set off with my former
companions between three and four o'clock, reached Newington about
nine, very tired.
News of a great victory under Wellington, at Vittoria in Spain.
One hundred and fifty pieces of cannon taken from the French, and all
their ammunition and baggage, with ten thousand prisoners.
Seventh Month 11th. — Captain Owen, of the Royal Navy, called,
and gave me very important information relative to a Slave Trade car
ried on in the Indian Islands, from Macassar and Borneo, to Java and
Sumatra. Took him to Brougham.
13th[  A long conference with Judge Thorpe, who has lately come
from Sierra Leone. Clarkson was present, and we received much new
and important information relative to the affairs of the colony.
11th  Went to Kensington, with Fox and Corston, to meet the
Duke's of Kent and Sussex, and the Duke of Bedford. We fully and
frankly stated the nature of our difficulties with Joseph Lancaster ;* but
I observed that it would be proper for them to hear his account of the
business — that he must be made to confine himself to the points on
which he thought he had reason to complain of the committee, and that
we would attend to answer for ourselves. They were all quite of this
mind, and the Duke of Kent remarked, that as Lancaster was a man
of a violent temper, it would be right to have some indifferent person
present, and he knew of no one more likely to manage him than Whit
bread. In this we all agreed, and the Duke of Bedford undertook to
engage him in the business. The three Dukes showed themselves
real men of business and of feeling. We left with them our plan of a
new constitution, and retired, comforting ourselves with the hope that
things were really getting into a proper train.
21st. — Took down the circular instrument from Troughton's, and
set it up in my observatory.
21th. — To Fox's to tea. Met Whitbread, Fox, Jackson, and Cors
ton.- — A long conference about Lancaster, and very satisfactory.
Whitbread seems to enter heartily into the business.
Eighth Month 4#i,.-^-Lancaster's committee with J. Fox, thence to
the Bible Association at Stoke Newington. Received important let
ters from Africa."
It appears that the vessel, in which the goods were sent to the peo
ple of colour at Sierra Leone, was wrecked on the coast; but the
value of the consignment was recovered from the underwriters, and
W. A. having engaged a few friends to subscribe, in order to form a
* Arising from J. L.'s conduct, and his demands upon the committee after his losses at
Tooting.

126 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1813.
little capital for trading with, sent out some ironmongery, &c. which
was disposed of to advantage.
"Eighth Month 9th.— To Fox's, Argyle Street, to meet Hume, the
late member for Weymouth. He has long been a friend to the school
cause, and the Royal Dukes have prevailed upon him to join Whit
bread in the investigation of the business. I have furnished him with
all the statements and accounts. Matters now begin to assume the
character of an arbitration.
13th. — To Argyle Street, then with Fox to Whitbread's, and thence
all together to Kensington Palace, where Joseph Foster, W. Corston,
and T. Sturge met us ; also Place and Bone from Westminster, J:
Hume, and J. Lancaster. The Dukes of Kent and Sussex presided.
The Duke of Kent opened the business in a masterly manner, stating,
that his friend Hume having, with great labour, investigated the whole
matter, had digested the subjects in regular order, in the form of a re
port, which he proposed should be read. This was accordingly" done.
It was drawn up with great candour and ability, and we had little to
remark in reference to it. Lancaster behaved very imprudently, to say.
the least. In conclusion, the Duke of Kent told him in substance that
they had agreed upon certain points, which they were determined to
maintain, — that they would give him time to consider of them coolly,
that he might still be the prominent feature in the business, but that if
he persisted in the conduct he had lately pursued, they were determined
to maintain the cause without him. The patience and condescension
of the Royal Dukes, on this occasion, were very striking.
It is well for the cause that the deed was executed, which secures
the premises at the Borough Road — this, as Fox says, is our sheet
anchor." In a letter to J. T. Vandercom, the city solicitor, W. A. thus ex
presses himself: —
"Under all, the committee have the comfort of reflecting, that from
the very origin, and all along, they have uniformly expressed to J. L.
their decided disapprobation of the Tooling concern, — they have always
given him faithful and affectionate counsel, and but for the sake of the
great national cause in which they were engaged, would never have
submitted to what they have done. They wished not for popularity,
they desired not to be known in the work, and it has Only been through
the weakness of its first and chief promoter, that they have been forced
into notice. The ways of Providence are inscrutable, and perhaps he
has permitted these trials to unshackle the work, and give it a stronger
impetus:" " Eighth Month 14th. — Lancaster's committee. — The cause of edu
cation is going on; there is a great movement in Westminster." ;
The 16th inst. William Allen left home with his family for Cromer,

1813. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 127
and, whilst there, received the following letter from the Duke of Kent,
dated — "Kensington Palace, August 15, 1813.
" Friend Allen,
"I duly received, this morning, your,esteemed favour of yesterday,
and was highly gratified in finding that the exertions of myself and bro
ther, on Friday last, at the committee, were noticed by you in so feel
ing and friendly a manner. I only hope that, in the end, success may
attend our exertions, and harmony, with good discipline, be restored.
It can scarcely be necessary for me to observe, that your conduct, and
that of the trustees throughout, has impressed both of us with senti
ments of admiration. With respect to the unfortunate J. L., I cannot
help fearing, that vanity and distress united, have bereaved him of the
power of judgment ; but I trust, in a little time, we shall be able to
convince him of the folly of the former, and relieve his mind of the lat
ter : and that we shall yet be able to avail ourselves of his services, by
remunerating them liberally, and marking out his line, so that he can
not possibly stray from it. I hope Fox and Hume together, will be
able to get on rapidly with the new code of regulations, and whenever
they are ready, my brother and myself, with the Duke of Bedford, and
Mr. Whitbread, will be ready to meet them. Knowing, as I do, Mr.
Hume's uprightness, clear-headedness, and perseverance, I am con
vinced you could not have a more efficient coadjutor. With respect
to my own affairs, the moment I can avail myself of your advice, with
advantage, I will do myself the pleasure of addressing you again. In
the mean while I remain, with regard and esteem, friend Allen, yours
faithfully,
Edward."
The latter paragraph is in allusion to a subject which reflects so much
honour on the character of this noble-minded Prince, that it seems due
to his memory, briefly to state the circumstances which gave rise to it.
Finding that his affairs had become considerably embarrassed, and
possessing too high a principle not to endeavour to retrieve them, he
consulted William Allen on the best means of providing for extrication.
But one course suggested itself to the mind of the latter, and that was,
so to arrange his expenditure, as to leave a surplus to pay off the debts ;
the Duke queried how this was to be accomplished, when W. A. replied,
— by placing his property in the hands of trustees, and agreeing to live
upon a certain income. The Duke then asked, whether he would be
willing to become a trustee, — to which, on consideration, he consented ;
and the Duke, with true magnanimity, agreed to the appointment of
several gentlemen to carry this plan into effect.
During William Allen's absence from home, he attended the Quarterly
Meetings of Norfolk and Suffolk, by appointment of the Yearly Meet-

128 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1813.
ing. He also visited his dear friend, Thomas Clarkson, with whom he
had been a fellow-labourer, on behalf of the African race, for nearly
twenty years, and a warm friendship always subsisted between them.
Tenth Month 4th, W. A. writes —
"Felt truly thankful in being permitted to return honie on fifth-day
in safety, and all of us in good health ; found my friend J. T. B. had
taken especial care of the business during my absence, and had things
in excellent order. Abraham Vanneck, who has been ten years at
Sierra Leone, dined with me on sixth-day. My. dear friend Richard
Phillips had a sore trial last sixth-day' night, his Office" being utterly
destroyed by fire, and a great number of valuable papers and deeds
lost. At meeting on first-day, it opened instructively-to my mind, that as.
the Supreme Being is a Spirit, so all communication with him must be •
spiritual; and as we cannot command the times at which he may be
pleased to open, it is our duty to wait for them, and to 'cherish them,
when so favoured : but if we turn away our attention to outward and
visible objects, these openings will close, and we shall be left to our
selves, barren and poor: happy for us if we feel our loss, and patiently
look out for the next opening, and strive to make a better use of it.
It also appeared to me, that those who are carnally-minded have no
idea of the inward life ; they are wholly absorbed in outward objects,1
and when these please them they feel a momentary joy, but no true
peace.  Riches, life, and health are uncertain, but a little assurance
that we are on that foundation which cannot be removed, and that none
of the storms and vicissitudes of life can separate us from the love of
God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord, — this adds a lustre to all that
is beautiful in creation, ^and sweetens every bitter cup, and it even
enlightens the darkest scenes with a gleam of peace and hope.
Tenth Month 6th. — A letter from Cardiff, with a petition on behalf
of W. Morgan, a convict, prevented me from attending the Monthly
Meeting. I called on R. Phillips, and then on my friend Inglis, at
the Secretary of State's office — left the petition with him for Lord
Sidmouth. 9th. — Received a letter from Cardiff with further particulars respect
ing W:, Morgan ; took it to Inglis, then went to Vansittart, to get an
introduction to Lord Sidmouth by a note, but N. V. kindly went 'with
me himself. Lord S. received me politely, but seemed bent upon
hanging the man at the instance of the judge. Came home very low,
wrote to Cardiff, and to J. T. Price. Too much depressed to do any
thing with comfort.
Tenth Month 10th. — Meeting, morning and afternoon.1 Wrote to
Lord Sidmouth, on behalf of the poor man under sentence of death,
at Cardiff."

1813. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 129
The following' passages, occurring in the course of the letter, show
the nature of the case which engaged W. A.'s attention : —
" Let us now see the kind of subject which the judge has selected
for his terrible example: — A young man, about twenty-twpyeaf^bf age,
extremely ignorant, not being able to read or write, a^icKfexnibiting no
indications of a ferocious disposition ; this poor wrelch, it> seems,
crept in at the window of a house, stole property tql the aspount of a
few shillings, and withdrew without any attempt to csm^itfa, personal
injury. ^^>«1' j.
The crime is doubtless one of considerable magnitude, ancTshould
be visited with adequate punishment ; but the punishment assigned to
it, in this case, is so shockingly disproportionate, that the mind recoils
from the consideration of it, with horror. Shall a person, to whom, be
it remembered, society has failed in its, duty by suffering him to grow
up in ignorance, for the crime of stealing to the amount of a few shil
lings, and without any aggravating circumstances, be cut off in the
prime of life, suffer the very same punishment which you inflict upon
him who has been guilty of the most barbarous murder, and, in short,
endure the greatest punishment which one human being can inflict
upon another.
The laws, as they now stand, from their sanguinary nature, fail in
protecting a large portion of the community. Many will not prosecute
when plundered of their property, lest the felon, if convicted, should
lose his life ; hence for want of a law inflicting adequate punishment, an
offender escapes to commit new depredations, and derives farther en
couragement by calculating upon his chances. Every thing seems
planned to avenge society of its injuries, while the means for preventing
their increase are almost completely overlooked. To reform the guilty,
and to restore thern as useful members of the community, is a glorious
triumph of humanity, and marks a state rising in the scale of civilization ;
but to have no other resource than the punishment of death, reminds me
of the miserable subterfuge of a barbarous age, barren in expedients to
save, strong only to destroy."
After some very close reasoning on the bearings of this subject, which
the subsequent amelioration of our criminal code renders it unnecessary
now to bring forward, W. A. says —
" Excuse me for speaking out freely on this awful occasion ; indeed
the case demands it, and I should despise myself, if, under such circum
stances, I felt an inclination to shrink from the performance of my
duty ; in endeavouring to discharge it, however, I hope I have not
failed in the respect due to a person in thy distinguished situation, and
as I know that thy feelings must have been strongly excited on this
distressing subject, I hope thou wilt be pleased to make some allowance
for mine. I remain, very respectfully, &c."
Vol. I. 9

130 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1813.
"Tenth Monthl2th. — Went up to Lord Sidmouth, at Whitehall, met
with a very favourable reception, and had a long interview on W.
Morgan's case. T find a respite of ten days is sent down, in order
to give time to consult the judge. I have no doubt now that the man's
life will be spared. I had also an opportunity of explaining the
Lancasterian concern to Lord S.
15th. — Received a note from Lord Sidmouth, stating that it had
been recommended to the Prince Regent to commute the sentence of
W. Morgan to transportation for life."
After receiving this acceptable intelligence, W. A. wrote the follow
ing letter to Sir Robert Harry Inglis, Lord Sidmouth's Secretary : —
"My Dear Friend,
" Many thanks for thy kind note, enclosing the welcome information
that Lord Sidmouth, after receiving the judge's report, in the case of
W. Morgan, felt himself warranted in recommending the punishment
to be changed to transportation for life. It was doubly welcome, as
the event proved that I had not ventured to trouble Lord Sidmouth in
a case unworthy of intercession. I am glad also that this affair has
given me an opportunity of being better acquainted with Lord Sid
mouth's real character, of which, from what I have seen myself, I shall
think more highly than ever. I merely forbear to write to him because
I would not unnecessarily obtrude myself upon his notice, but do thank
him most heartily on my behalf, for the very kind reception he was
pleased to give me.
I wish it were in my power to convince those, who, from their
situation and influence, are able to give full effect to the measure, that
it is possible to make arrangements for the education of every poor child
in the kingdom at a very trifling expense to the public, upon some
general. plan in which good men of all descriptions might cordially unite;
this would do more towards diminishing crime, than all the penal statutes
that could be enacted.
I remain, with best wishes for thy present and eternal interests,
Very respectfully, thy affectionate friend."
" Tenth Month 18th. — Joseph Pen Selling, the Danish prisoner, sent
to the Borough Road to be trained for a schoolmaster, is qualified and
sent off.
23rd. — General Blucher and the Crown Prince of Sweden crossed
the Elbe. Bonaparte is said to be in a very critical situation at present.
26th. — Opening lecture at the Hospital — experimental philosophy,
No. 1. Crowded audience."
On commencing this course, W. Allen made the following introduc
tory observations : —
" The circumstances in which we are placed in the present state of
our existence, prove it was the intention of the Supreme Being that we

1813. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 131
should be actively employed ; every thing about us is in motion ; im
portant changes are constantly going on, and some of them, by their
very nature, are calculated to stimulate mankind to exertion. This
change is impressed upon our garments which are continually wearing
out — upon the habitations which protect us from the weather, which are
constantly requiring repair ; it is obvious on the very face of nature,
and proclaimed in the succession of seasons ; it seems to be a law of
our being, that whatever is capable of fixing our attention to useful
pursuits — whatever stimulates to the exertion of intellect— whatever
gives spring and activity to the powers of the mind, must, if properly
directed, conduce to the happiness of man. Surrounded as we are by
the comforts and conveniences of civilized life ; born in an age wherein
the useful arts are carried to a high degree of perfection, — it requires
some abstraction of mind, and a certain degree of reflection, to appre
ciate properly the advantages we enjoy. We are apt to consider the
situations in which we find ourselves, as perfectly natural, and have but
a faint idea of what we owe to the labours and exertions of those who
have gone before us ; without their labour and skill, however, we
might yet have been obliged to clothe ourselves in the skins of beasts, —
to seek refuge from the vicissitudes of the weather in the caves of the
earth, and feed upon any digestible substance that might be thrown in
our way.
The influence of knowledge upon the human mind is prodigious. A
reference to the page of history will not only show the gradual advances
which have been made from rude beginnings to the present improved
state of society, but it will strongly inculcate the important lesson, that
the happiness of our species is intimately connected with the diffusion
of knowledge. Where do we behold cruelty in its most terrific form,
but in the uninstructed and neglected part of the community? by whom
are our gaols principally inhabited, but by the ignorant ? — by those to
whom society has failed in its duty. In the higher ranks of men, igno
rance assumes not unfrequently the shape of bigotry, and manifests
itself in deep-rooted prejudice : whenever you see a man more than
ordinarily censorious of others, indisposed to make allowance for the
circumstances in which they may have been placed, positive and un
charitable in his opinions, whatever may be his rank in life, be assured
that he is lamentably ignorant.
Knowledge, properly understood and applied, sheds a benevolent
influence over the mind of the possessor ; and when we consider that it
tends to increase our powers of usefulness, and thereby to add to our
own happiness and that of others, we shall feel it almost a duty to make
such an arrangement of our time, as to devote regularly a portion of it
to the improvement of our minds.
Of all the varied branches of knowledge, those relating to material

132 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1813.
objects are most important. In former ages the powers of the human
mind were exhausted in useless metaphysical disquisitions concerning
essence and substance, and ethereal forms, — things which it was impos
sible to comprehend or apply to any good purpose. To our illustrious
countrymen, however, Bacon, Locke, Newton, Boyle and Hook, we
are indebted for a more rational system of philosophy ; rejecting idle
speculations, they directed their attention to watch the processes of
nature, and to attempt to discover some of the laws by which her opera
tions are governed ; they built upon facts and experiments, and the
progress since made in every department of science, has proved the
correctness of their views.
Few are sufficiently aware of the beneficial consequences likely to
result, from an endeavour to induce a habit of attention even to minute
circumstances, and how much misery is produced in the world by those
unhappy prejudices, which owe their origin to a careless and superficial
view of facts. Men who have not been in the habit of thinking, and
carefully investigating the grounds of their opinions, are most of all
liable to be carried away by their passions. The influence of the habit,
which I now recommend, on the comfort of society, is incalculable ;
the pleasure arising from the cultivation of our rational powers, would
amply repay the efforts necessary for the purpose : indeed, it is only by
an accurate examination of things, and reflection upon them, that we
learn the comparative value of the different objects presented to our
notice, and give to every one that precise degree of attention to which
it is, by its nature, entitled."
About this period William Allen received a letter from William Rotch,
of New Bedford : when, referring to the concerns of Africa, he says —
" Paul Cuffee still continues his concern for his African plan, and has
recently petitioned Congress for liberty to send his vessel to Sierra
Leone, provided liberty can be obtained from your side. His character
stands conspicuously approved as far as it is known, his kind concern
for the civilization of Africa, and his devotion of time and money to that
object, have greatly strengthened the impression of his real worth and
merit ; and from some intimations from the President, I am led to be
lieve his application will succeed."
" Tenth Month 28th. — Dr. Hamel of Petersburg, introduced by Davy,
Dr. Babington, Pepys and Brande, dined with me.
30th. — At ten, set off for Kensington, on the school business, with
George Harrison; took up Fox and Mill by the way. About twenty
of the Finance Committee present, — the Dukes of Kent and Sussex,
and the Duke of Bedford. A very satisfactory meeting : Fox's narra
tive read, and the new constitution passed.
Eleventh Month. — 'Illuminations this week, for the great defeat of
Bonaparte at Leipsic.

1813. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 133
My mind more comfortably settled than sometimes, and a little relieved
from anxiety.
A degree of sweetness in the family reading on first-day evening. 0,
how precious is a single drop from the living fountain !
10th. — Attended the general meeting of subscribers to the school
concern. The Dukes of Kent and Sussex, the Duke of Bedford, Whit
bread, &c. &c, there, also J. Lancaster. All our resolutions were
carried, and Lancaster openly consented to act under the committee.
15th. — A little faith still preserved.
18th. — Capital Punishment Committee, Sir James Mackintosh, Dr.
Hamel, &c.
20th  To west end of the town, — called on Sir R. H. Inglis : paid
into Coutts's subscription for Berlin sufferers.
22nd. — A little spiritual consolation in the night, and at meeting on
first-day morning : encouraged to persevere in mental prayer : I am
sure I need it, involved as I am in multiplied engagements.
23rd  Great news from Holland, a general insurrection, and they
seem about to drive out the French.
25th  To Kensington Gore to see Wilberforce, — had along confer
ence with him about Sierra Leone, &C, very satisfactory."
William Allen was much attached to William Wilberforce, who,
through life, manifested a strong reciprocal feeling, and, in a letter to
W. A., written shortly before this interview, he says —
" With you I have no reserves — I am persuaded of your possessing
all the qualities of head and heart which claim attachment, and you
possess mine in a greater degree than in proportion to the opportunities
we hitherto have had of cultivating each other's friendship ; after saying
this, I should not be honest if I did not however add, ' Talis cum sis,
utinam noster esses f that is, for your own sake, and that of the world,
I wish your religious principles and my own were more entirely accord
ant; I fear you may deem this an approach towards bigotry, but truth
seemed to require the avowal."
Though Wilberforce never appeared fully to comprehend the princi
ples of Friends, yet, increasing years, with continued association,
seemed, in degree, to soften down those prejudices, the expression of
which, on one occasion, called forth the following remarks, in a letter
from Richard Reynolds to W. A : —
"lam surprised at the ignorance of Wilberforce of our principles as
a religious society, and especially in reference to our estimation of the
Holy Scriptures. I the more wonder at it, because I should have
thought the exertions of Friends in his favour, to which may be
attributed his success at the election for Yorkshire, would have brought
him so intimately acquainted with members of our society, as to know
our sentiments and practice, with respect to reading the Scriptures. I

134 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1813.
should have thought that the exertions of Friends in aid of the Bible
Society would have been sufficient to open his eyes. I hope they are
now opened, and should be glad that the class to which he, Thornton,
and Stephen belong, should be convinced we are, as we are willing to
admit they may be, real, genuine Christians."
" Twelfth Month 3rd. — Meeting for Sufferings, then to Suffolk
street, — met W. Wilberforce, H. Brougham, and T. Harrison, and all
went to Lord Bathurst on African Institution business, — very favourably
received; afterwards had an audience of Lord Castlereagh, — well
received here also.
Twelfth Month 4th. — To Borough Road ; large committee, fifteen
present. 6th. — On sitting down in meeting on fourth-day, I saw there was a
distinction to be made between endeavouring to'do good merely from
benevolent intentions, and going into an undertaking from a sense of
religious duty, — that is, a sense upon the mind that this business is laid
upon us. Now in the first case, the effort is laudable, but we may be
disappointed of our aim, and after all from mere human reason we are
very imperfect judges of what may be for the best. But if it be the
Lord's own work, there is no uncertainty about the matter ; and the
result, let it be what it may, will be infallibly the best possible, so that
acting under this precious influence, we have no reason to be in the
least anxious, — we are but mere instruments in the hands of Him who
doeth all things well, and should be upon our guard lest our own
activity mar his work.
21th. — ' Review of the last week.' — Much taken up, day after day,
with examining witnesses on the state of Sierra Leone, before a com
mittee of the African Institution. I feel it a duty to stand by the poor
black settlers — they have few to take their part."
The suffering state of the working population in our manufacturing
districts had been peculiarly brought under the notice of W. Allen, by
his indefatigable labours in the society established in London for the
relief of that distressed class, and he observes, that " both in a moral
and political point of view, it is cause of serious anxiety to many re
flecting minds."
Under a deep impression of the importance of the subject, and cast
down with hearing repeated tales of woe, which there were no means
of relieving, his hopes were at length raised of the practicability of
improving their condition, by hearing of the good which had been
effected through the benevolent exertions of the proprietors of the cotton
mills at New Lanark ; one of the owners, Robert Owen, came to Lon
don in consequence of some business arrangements which involved the
sale of the mills, and, after several interviews with him, W. Allen thus
writes —

1814. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 135
"The consideration of entering into the Lanark concern has occu
pied much of my attention this week. The mills are to be sold on the
31st, and we are very anxious that Owen should be one of the purcha
sers, in order that his noble plans for ameliorating the condition of the
labouring and manufacturing poor may be maintained.* They have
now been in operation about thirteen years, and during that period
none of the workmen have applied for relief from public charity, as they
had raised a fund amongst themselves which is able to support them
under sickness, and provides for them in old age, neither has any one
of them been called before a magistrate for any offence.
Twelfth Month 21th. — A most important meeting on second-day
with Robert Owen, Joseph Fox, and John Walker; we settled the
whole business about Lanark ; but I had much conflict of mind on
account of the responsibility involved in it ; I trust, however, I had a
degree of evidence that it was right."
In his review of the week, W. A. thus alludes to his feelings respect
ing this subject, : —
" Much tried in mind, in considering whether it would be right for
me to yield to the pressing solicitations of R. Owen, J. Fox, M. Gibbs,
and J. Walker, to join in the Lanark concern for the sake of keeping
up this most interesting establishment for preserving the morals, and
promoting the comfort and happiness of the work-people ; and I trust
I felt what would warrant me to go as far as I did. The parties came
under an engagement to secure me from loss for one year, and that they
would take my shares, if I felt uneasy and disposed to relinquish them,
on my giving notice in the Ninth Month next. If this is not in right
direction, I humbly hope that I may be favoured with an intimation
in my own mind to that effect, and be graciously helped to act accord
ingly. 3lst. — The business of Lanark must have been decided to-day, as
the sale was to take place at Glasgow ; I feel peaceful as to the event,
let it be as it will ; indeed a sweet calm has attended my mind ; it has
been an exercise, and I trust will be a confirmation of faith.
First Month, 1st, 1814  Still in suspense about Lanark, but my
mind is tranquil, leaving all in the Lord's hand, with a comfortable
hope that if the matter be inconsistent with his will, he will not permit
it to take place, and if, oa the contrary, it is in his appointment, that
he will support me under it.
In public affairs many think that the prospect brightens, and that we
shall have peace. Lord Castlereagh is gone to Frankfort to be at hand
for consultation ; this I think looks a little like some apprehension of a
difference between the Allied Powers in regard to the adjustments.
* The Religious opinions of Robert Owen were not then developed.

136 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1814.
Bonaparte seems, at present, to be reduced to a low ebb, but he will
doubtless strive to extricate himself by intrigue.
4th. — Received letters frow my friend Fox, with the information that
the Lanark mills are ours. May the divine blessing attend the under
taking, and may we be kept humble and cautious! When my mind
centres down solidly under the consideration of it, I feel peace."
On a subsequent occasion, in alluding to this purchase, and stating
how much the heads of manufacturing establishments had in their
power, W. A. says —
" The history of the cotton mills, established in the first instance by the
late benevolent and pious David Dale, near the falls Of the Clyde, in
Lanarkshire, is a case in point. The establishment has excited a con
siderable portion of public attention, on account of the benevolent system
pursued in it, by which the temporal and moral benefits of a population
amounting to more than two thousand persons, have been essentially
promoted. Robert Owen, who married a daughter of the founder, long
had the management of the works, and when, by the dissolution of the
existing partnership, they were sold by public auction, several indi
viduals, induced mainly by a desire to support a concern which had
given proof that the comfort and happiness of the workmen might be
consulted, without injury to those who furnished the capital, came
forward and joined Robert Owen in the purchase. A proof of the
nature of the feelings of the new proprietors, was given by the care
they took in framing the articles of partnership, which we think will
not find many parallels. They provided, by distinct articles, for the
religious education of all the children of the labourers employed in the
works; and it is expressly stated, 'that nothing shall be introduced
tending to disparage the Christian religion, or undervalue the authority
of the Holy Scriptures.
' That no books shall be introduced into the library, until they have
first been approved of, at a general meeting of the partners.
' That schools shall be established at New Lanark, in which all the
children of the population resident at the partnership establishment
there, may be educated on the best models of the British system, or
other approved system to which the partners may agree ; but no reli
gious instruction, or lessons on religion, shall be used, except the
scriptures, according to the authorized version, or extracts therefrom
without note or comment ; and the children shall not be employed in
the mills belonging to the partnership, until they shall be of such' an
age as shall not be prejudicial to their health.'
First Month. — I had an interview with Lord Sidmouth on second-
day, respecting a charter for Lanark; he wishes for further informa
tion, which I have written for; he desired me to call again whenever

1814. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 137
I had anything to communicate, and has all along treated me with
great kindness."
In a letter to Richard Reynolds, which mentions a meeting of the
committee at the Borough Road, W. A. states —
"A sub-committee is appointed to divide Southwark into districts,
in the same manner as has been pursued in some parts of Westminster,
with great success. This is one of the most important measures which
has been attempted ; its object is to ascertain in each district the num
ber of uneducated poor ; of public houses, with the clubs held in them,
and for what purpose, &c. &c.
I was lately with Lord Sidmouth on other business, and mentioned
the plan to him ; he seemed quite delighted with it, and I hope by-and-
bye to show him what it is capable of.
I have become acquainted with a very interesting young man, Dr.
Hamel, who came to this country from Russia two or three months
ago ; he is a Moravian, and although he was first introduced to me by
Davy as a scientific chemist, I soon found that he had qualities infi
nitely beyond these, and might be made an instrument of extensive
usefulness. I had no sooner explained to him the nature of our school
concern, than he was eager to know all the details of it ; I accordingly
furnished him with the books, and took him to see the Spitalfields
school, with which he was highly gratified, and he has since been
making an abstract of the plan and translating it into the Russian lan
guage. From his acquaintance with the Russian minister and others
at their court, we are in hopes of bringing the subject under the favour
able notice of the Emperor."
In conveying to the same benevolent individual, intelligence respect
ing the proceedings of the African Institution, W. A. says —
" On the seventh of Twelfth Month the Board met ; the Duke of
Gloucester was present, and the meeting was well attended. I took
the opportunity to state the hardships suffered by the black settlers at
Sierra Leone, under the Militia Act. It seemed to make a great im
pression, and I hope something will be done. I also brought forward
a measure which I have long had at heart, which was inquiring into
the proceedings at Sierra Leone. Wilberforce had previously known
my views of the subject, having had a long conversation with me at
his own house, on the review of the African Institution report in the
Philanthropist, which has drawn them all upon me from the Duke of
Gloucester down, but knowing the foundation upon which the main
assertions stand, I only requested that they would have patience to go
into the inquiry. We talked of a committee, which should be ap
pointed by the Board for the express purpose of watching over Sierra
Leone, and I told Wilberforce that if he would move for it, I would
second the motion, which he agreed to do, and it was brought forward

138 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1814.
at this meeting. I mentioned the public being aware that things wanted
looking into at Sierra Leone, that the letters received from the settlers
there, as well as the open declaration of those who had come from the
colony, and who were now in England, proved that at least there were
heavy complaints, and we owed it to ourselves to see whether they
had any foundation. The Duke and others thought the measure
highly expedient, and a committee was nominated. Our first meeting
was on the 15th of Twelfth Month ; Judge Thorpe was examined, and
his evidence went to prove that the people were discontented about
their lands, and that a surveyor was much wanted ; that on account of
one governor revoking what a former one has granted, confidence in
the security of property was weakened, and this had proved a discou
ragement to cultivation ; that the colony from mismanagement and ne
glect had certainly gone back in point of morals, &c. I took notes of
all that I judged material, in this and the following examinations.
After four hours spent in the business, we adjourned to the 18th, and
were again employed an equal space of time, principally with Judge
Thorpe : on the 21st we examined Abraham Vanneck ; this also occu
pied about four hours. On the 22nd, 23rd, and 24th we were em
ployed in like manner with D. M. Hamilton and G. Nicol: on the
28th we heard Macaulay's defence of the Sierra Leone Company, but
the report was deferred till we could examime John Clarkson, who,
thou mayest remember, brought the Nova Scotian blacks to the colony.
On the 6th of First Month we examined J. C. and are to meet on the
14th to hear the remainder of his evidence. I think we shall be able
to prove that the principal thing attended to by the white people of
Sierra Leone, at least by many of them, has been getting money, and
that in the shortest way. The mystery of poor Paul Cuffee's ill usage
is now unravelled."
In a subsequet letter, W. A. says
" I did not wish to come forward as the accuser of an individual, or
of the Sierra Leone Company; I always stated, publicly and privately,
that I had the highest sense of the benevolent views and good intentions
of the very respectable characters who were its directors, but one thing
was certain, that the settlers had retrograded in point of morality ; also,
that education was neglected, that discontent existed, and that the
settlers wanted stimulus."
On a sentiment having been expressed, that with respect to supply
ing slave traders from the stores, it is not the business of the managers
to inquire what the things are wanted for, if the people bring their
money, W. A. observes —
"I maintained, that admitting it was not their business to inquire,
yet, when a man comes and says, I want a supply of articles for the
purpose of buying slaves, or where we have every reason to believe

1814. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 139
t
that things are wanted for that purpose, they cannot be supplied with
out a degree of participation in the guilt. I stated my own case, in
which a merchant with whom I had done considerable business, sent
me a large sea-chest to re-fit., I suspected from the nature of it, that
it was destined for the Slave Trade, and, on inquiry at the merchant's
counting-house, found that it was so. I then told him that I could not
consistently, with my feelings and principles, derive profit from, or at
all aid or assist in, such a business. They of course sent for the chest,
and I lost their custom. T. F. Forster quite agreed with me, as did
Thomas Harrison."*
The investigations occupied more than twenty long sittings, and, in
reference to them, W. A. says —
" The African business has not only been exceedingly fatiguing, but
very trying, as I have been obliged to differ in opinion from some whom
I have always regarded with love and reverence."
First Month 24th. — A meeting at Plough Court of an important
nature for Africa. Thomas Clarkson, George Harrison, Samuel Hoare,
Jun., T. F. Forster, B. Forster, and Charles Barclay, met, and we
formed 'A Society for the purpose of Encouraging the Black Settlers
at Sierra Leone, and the Natives of Africa generally, in the Cultivation
of their Soil, by the Sale of their Produce.'
This was a subject which had long engaged the attention of several
of the friends of Africa ; but it could not be taken up by the African
Institution, in consequence of the 'fixed determination of that society,''
as stated in its first report, 'not to engage in commercial speculations.'
It was obvious, however, that unless some efforts were made in this
country, to aid the settlers in disposing of their produce, a great stimulus
to industry would be wanting ; and with a view to meet the circum
stances of the case, the present society was formed. In the first notice
of its objects, the committee, speaking of the colonists, observe —
Their case may be shortly stated thus : — they are in general very
poor. They find great difficulty in parting with their produce to their
satisfaction, and they have no way of conveying it to England, so as to
make the most of it themselves. An association therefore was some
time ago formed among them, bearing the title of 'The Friendly
Society,' which was to meet monthly, in order to devise means of dis
posing of their produce on the most advantageous terms, and of promoting
habits of industry among each other. This association continues, but
* On a subsequent occasion of a somewhat similar character, William Allen pursued the
same consistent course. The Emperor Alexander urged him to Undertake the supply of
drugs for the Russian armies — an offer which he gratefully, but firmly refused ; and the
Obituary of the Royal Society, after stating this circumstance, adds, — " To his honour be it
spoken, he resisted a temptation, the value of which it would be difficult to estimate. At
the end of a long life he could say, that he had never compromised his public usefulness for
private interests.''

140 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1814.
it cannot carry its useful plans into execution, without assistance from
England. It has been thought proper, therefore, to institute a society in London,
consisting of the friends of the African cause, whose object it will be to
open a mercantile connection with them upon easy terms. It is proposed
that the society shall raise a fund, not by loan, but by free gift, and
that it shall appoint a committee to manage it. Hence it is to be
hoped that a stimulus may be given to the black settlers, so that not
only their industry may be excited to the better cultivation of their lands,
but that the natives, seeing the profits arising from such cultivation,
may, by degrees, be induced, under instruction, to follow the example.
By this means the society now instituted may become highly useful ;
but without some such means, little or no advance is likely to be made,
in the colony of Sierra Leone, towards the great object which the friends
of Africa have so deeply at heart."
Samuel Hoare, Jun., was appointed treasurer to this society, and
William Allen, secretary. Amongst the resolutions agreed to in its
formation, was —
" That no member shall derive emolument from the transactions of
this society."
Second Month 9th. — Had a conference with Lord Carrington on the
subject of our new African society ; he desired me to put down his
name for fifty pounds, and consented to be on the committee.
Stocks getting up rapidly ; the Allies about seventy or eighty miles
from Paris, and have obtained advantages over Bonaparte in person,
taking seventy-five cannon, &c.
12th. — To town by eight o'clock coach ; as I was getting out, heard
that the Custom House was on fire. After reading with the family,
J. T. Barry and I went to Tower Hill, and saw the flames raging, but
while we were looking on, some barrels of gunpowder exploded and
killed two or three persons ; we were in some danger.
13th. — An evening meeting at Devonshire House, at the request of
John Kirkham, for members of the six Monthly Meetings, and attenders
of meetings, particularly the youth.' It was a large assembly, and to my
feelings much favoured with the divine presence, — faith and hope re
vived. The Lord be magnified !
W. Wilberforce called a short time since, and stated that he had been
informed that the Lascars and Chinese kept at Ratcliff had been very ill
used, that they had not sufficient provision, and that several of them
had been unmercifully flogged ; that some humane persons in the
neighbourhood had collected a good deal of evidence on the subject, and
he wished T. Clarkson and me to consider what could be done.
I concluded it best to confer with one of the directors of the East
India Company, which we did, and I proposed that he should procure

1814. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 141
an order for us to visit and inspect the Barracks. He desired us to call
upon him again, at the India House, which we did, and were advised
to address a memorial to the committee on shipping. A Lascar cook
was brought to us who had been flogged about a fortnight before ; the
offence appeared to be the food not holding out for the parties it was
designed for : the marks on his back showed that the lacerations must
have been very deep. An order arrived from the shipping committee,
for ' W. Allen, T. Clarkson and a friend, to visit the Barracks at all
seasonable hours ;' previous to this, all access had been refused to
strangers. This morning T. Clarkson and I went to the Barracks, calling in the
way at Wontner's, in the Minories, a benevolent man, who has inter
ested himself on behalf of these poor creatures : we took him with us.
It appears that they are under the authority of a serang who punishes
them at pleasure.
W. A. gives an affecting detail of their suffering state, and adds,
"a regular plan must be resorted to, and the whole ought to be put
under the inspection of some of the humane inhabitants. There are
about two hundred in the Barracks at this time." He afterwards says —
"Second Month 14th. — To Wontner's, at the Minories; 'Lascar's
Society, founded.
18th. — Sent Wontner the East India Company's order to inspect the
Barracks. 20th.— I feel myself, with regard to spirituals, poor and blind and
naked and wanting all things, deeply convinced that I cannot help
myself; may I persevere in humble application to Him from whom
alone help can come. May the Saviour strip me of the filthy rags of
my own righteousness, and clothe me with his righteousness !
Third Month 4th. — To Suffolk street on African busness ; some of
my alterations in the report were agreed' to, and it passed the com
mittee ; I trust much good has been done. This business being now
closed, I hope to have some time for reading for lectures.
Third Month 1th. — At meeting on fourth-day, under great poverty
and abasedness of spirit, with a deep sense of my unworthiness of
divine notice, the Lord was pleased to administer consolation in the
secret of my soul, and I have been favoured to experience relief from
that load of oppression, which for many days past had been painfully
my lot; may it tend, to my humiliation! seeing it is the humble whom
the Lord will teach of his ways.
Dear Fox is safely returned from Scotland, and called upon me last
evening. 20th. — The Tower guns fired to-day in consequence of a victory
gained by Wellington over Marshal Soult between Bayonne and Bour-
deaux.

142 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1814.
21st. — Meeting of the committee of the new African society.
23rd. — Attended the Board of the African Institution at eleven ; the
Annual General Meeting followed; there were present the Duke of
Gloucester, the Duke of Norfolk, Lord Grenville, Wilberforce, &c,
&c. ; the business consisted in reading the annual report, and the usual
votes of thanks.
Dinner — George Harrison and J. Fox — agreed upon the form of a
memorial to government on the subject of our school concern.
25th. — Writing to Africa. To City of London Tavern to attend the
first meeting of the Infirmary for pulmonary complaints, the Dukes of
Kent and Sussex, and Lord Darnley there.
Fourth Month 3rd  A letter from S. Greljet, stating that he had
landed at Harwich, on his return from the Continent.
9th. — The public events of this week are truly astonishing. Paris
taken by the Allies. The Senate denounce Bonaparte. Louis XVIII.
proclaimed at Paris. Bonaparte resigns the crown. Is not the hand
of the Almighty conspicuous now? O, may I, my countrymen, and
the world, attribute all to the mercy of our God, and hope that he is
hastening the glorious times prophesied of by his servant, when the
kingdom of the Lamb shall be exalted above all! Glory and thanks
giving to him who alone is worthy !
16th  Lecture at the Hospital, No. 20, — earths ; showed iodine for
the first time. Committee at the Borough Road. J. L. sent in a letter
of resignation, intending to form a rival establishment. His resignation
was accepted.
Fifth Month 3rd. — Finished Hospital lectures for the season.
6th. — Committee at Suffolk street, about a schoolmaster for Sierra
Leone. 1th. — Called at Inglis's, Mark Lane, about schools for Canada. Dr.
Evans, mathematical teacher at the Blue-Coat Hospital, a very agree
able interesting man, dined with me at Newington, and was so kind
as to give me some instruction in adjusting and levelling my circular
instrument, &c.
13th. — Drawing up a paper for committee for Canada.
14th. — Committee on schools in Canada, at Inglis's.
Committee at the Borough Road — report read over.
21st. — Busy with J. Barry at the annual statements of the school
accounts. Went to Freemasons' Tavern between eleven and twelve,
to attend the general school meeting. The hall full — the Dukes of
Kent and Sussex there, the Princess of Wales, Whitbread, &c. &c. ;
the absolute separation from Lancaster was announced, and we took
the title of 'The British and Foreign School Society.' Everything
went off admirably. I brought home upwards of three hundred pounds ;
the only damp upon our proceedings was our feeling for the poor

1814. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 143
infatuated man who first brought forward this beneficent system. —
Much exhausted.
24th. — Went to S. Whitbread's about Sierra Leone concerns. African
Institution at one. D, Sutherland and his wife appointed for schools
at Sierra Leone.
25th. — Meeting for worship to some comfort. The Duchess of Olden
burg and her suite attended the meeting at Devonshire House.
Sixth Month 4th. — Borough Road Committee. Things are going on
better  Fox and I take heart again.
My cousin J. G. Bevan is more poorly — I sat about an hour with
him. The definitive treaty of peace with France arrived on third-day
night, but we do not know the results, as it regards the important busi
ness of the Slave Trade.
1th. — Peace committee. A meeting to consider of a new society to
spread tracts, &c. against war. To Suffolk street — committee of the,
African Institution — cruelly disappointed on the subject of the Slave
Trade, in the definitive treaty with France — it is to be permitted to go
on for five years.*
Sixth Month 8th. — The Emperor of Russia and the King of Prussia
are arrived.
13th. — At a Meeting for Sufferings, held for the purpose at four
o'clock this afternoon, the Addresses to the Emperor of Russia and
King of Prussia, drawn up in pursuance of the direction of a Special
Meeting for Sufferings, held on the tenth instant, were finally agreed to.
14th. — Luke Howard and I called upon Baron Jacobi, the Ambas
sador from the King of Prussia, and showed him the Address, which he
seemed to approve, and promised to show it to the King. L. H., from
being secretary to the committee for German sufferers, had procured
admission to Jacobi through the Prussian Consul. Attended Canada
committee at Inglis's, Mark Lane. Robert Johnson, who was trained
at the Borough Road, is appointed to go out with Thaddeus Osgood.
* This intelligence occasioned the Directors deep and heart-felt regret, and feeling that,
consistently with their avowed objects, they were bound to do their utmost to rouse the
British Parliament, and the nation at large, to a just sense of the miseries that would, too
certainly, be inflicted upon Africa, by this article, they immediately convened a general
meeting of the friends of the Abolition of the Slave Trade. Several resolutions were
passed, and among them was one to present petitions to both Houses of Parliament implor
ing them to adopt measures for obviating the various evils which were likely to flow from
the article in question. The Directors were also requested to employ their best efforts to
carry the resolutions of the meeting into full effect. The board accordingly proceeded to
appoint a committee of their own body, which was joined by many persons not members of
the Institution. By tlieir unremitting and active exertions so much attention was excited to
the subject, that more than eight hundred petitions against the revival of the French Slave
Trade were presented.
In addition to these exertions, several of the Directors and members of the Institution
were, for some time, personally employed at Paris in forwarding the objects of the board. A

144 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1814.
I think eighteen hundred pounds have been collected for schools in
Canada. 16^.— Stephen Grellet, John Wilkinson, Luke Howard, and I, at
tended at James's Palace according to appointment with Baron Jacobi,
to present the Address to the King of Prussia ; after waiting some time,
we were told that the King had been up all night, and was much hur
ried, and that the only chance we had of seeing him, was by standing
in the passage through which he was to pass to his carriage. When
he came up, Baron Jacobi directed the King's attention to us, and the
Address, together with some books, was presented ; S. Grellet had
only time to say a few words in French, and on adverting to some of
our Society in his dominions, and to the Society's testimony against
war, the King observed they were excellent people, but without wait
ing for the conclusion of the sentence said, ' war was necessary to pro
cure peace.' The Baron, however, assured us that he would furnish
us with the King's written answer.
Sixth Month 11th  The largest board of the African Institution I
ever saw. Great meeting of the friends of the Abolition of the Slave
Trade at the Freemasons' Hall. I stood all the time, being wedged
in. Called on Whitbread, in Dover street, and inquired whether he
was acquainted with Count Lieven, the Russian Ambassador ; I found
he was not, but he kindly wrote a note for me to the Marquis of Tavis
tock ; I immediately took it, and was cordially received ; the Marquis
said, however, that he was not sufficiently known to Count Lieven to
give an introduction himself, but he would get a letter for me from the
Duke of Devonshire, with whom the Count was intimately acquainted,
and he appointed me to call for it the next morning.
18th. — This morning Luke Howard accompanied me to the Marquis
of Tavistock. I found a letter, and we went to Count Lieven's, Harley
street. The Count was at home, and we were soon admitted ; I first
made an apology to him for not taking off my hat on the ground of our
religious scruple in this particular, which he received in a very affable
manner. We then explained the nature of our mission, and gave him
a copy of the Address from our religious society to the Emperor
Alexander, in English. He appeared to read every word with the
most marked attention, and very deliberately ; I watched his counte
nance, and observed that his mind was considerably affected by it. He
assured us that he would lay it before the Emperor, and take his plea
sure upon it : some conversation then ensued respecting the number
who should attend if the deputation were received, and the ambassador
was quite of the opinion that a small number was best ; we told him
nine were appointed, but he seemed to think four the utmost; we how
ever pressed for six, and he desired me to send at four o'clock for an
answer. This I did, and received a note desiring me to attend at the

1814. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 145
Pulteney Hotel, at nine o'clock that evening; therewas a great bustle
when I arrived, and after waiting some time in the passage I was
invited into the large drawing room on the ground floor. It was a
trying time, but my mind was much turned to the Lord, in secret sup
plication for strength to" act consistently, and bear my portion of the
cross, and also for help to discharge the duties which had thus devolved
upon. me. Aftervvaiting till between twelve and one o'clock, one of
the carriages at length came with the Duke of Oldenburg, &e, &c, but
neither the Emperor nor Count Lieven arrived, and the servants of the
latter were ordered home. I then gave my card to one of Count
Lieven's servants, desiring him to inform his master that I had waited
till that .time, and would do myself the pleasure of -calling upon him
at Harley street the next morning. Got to Plough Court at about a
quarter past one.
I afterwards found that the Emperor and Grand Duchess came in
about a quarter of an hour after I was gone, and inquired for, -me.
Sixth Month V9th.-^-Weat up to Count Lieven's about a quarter
before ten o'clock; he was out, but expected back by twelve o'clock,
and I concluded to wait. Soon after eleven, one of the servants came
into the room and said that the Count was at the door in his carriage,
and requested me to go to hira directly, which I did ; he smiled, and
bidding the servant open the door, made me get into the carriage, and,
diriving off immediately, informed me that the Emperor wished to
attend one of our meetings, and that there was no. other time for it but
the present. I mentioned to him that there were six meetings in Lon
don,, and that those in the morning began at ten and ended about
twelve o'clock, and that in the afternoon some began at three and
others at five. He said that time was so short, and their arrangements
such, that the afternoon would not do. I replied, then it was quite
plainwe must go to the nearest, which was Westminster, and lose no
time, otherwise it might be broken up. We were soon in the midst
of a crowd of carriages and people, I think at Count Nesselrode's,
Curzon street, May Fair. My mind was much exercised for the honour
of the Truth, and my secret petitions- were put up to the alone .Source
of divine help. The Count was dressed in his regimentals, gold epau
lettes, stars, crosses, &c, with a large hat and feathers, sword, &c. On
entering the house I was shown into a parlouf on the left hand ; the
steps, passage, &c, being lined with' people. Here I found Col. Mac
Mahon, and nearly the same conversation passed as with Count Lieven.
I suggested, that to prevent annoyance from the mob, the Emperor had
better go as privately as possible. The Emperor and the Grand Duchess
of Oldenburg were up stairs, and were informed that I was come. In
the mean time Colonel Mac Mahon introduced me to the young Duke
of Oldenburg and the Duke of .Wurtemberg, who were dressed like
Vol. I. 10

146 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1814.
private gentlemen, with round hats, &c. The Emperor and Duchess
soon came down, the former in a plain dress. I was introduced to
them, and then gave the coachman directions where to drive. The
Emperor and Duchess, with the two Dukes went in one carriage, and
Count Lieven took me in his. The plan was for the Emperor's car
riage to follow us, but in the crowd we lost each other, which gave the
Count some disturbance ; however, on inquiring of some persons whom
he seemed to know, he found they were gone -right, and- we met much
about the same time at Martin's Lane. A number of persons had col
lected, but notone of them had gone up the Court. The Emperor, &c.
alighted, and the Count taking me by the arm, made way through the
crowd. I went, at a respectful distance, before the Emperor, and had
just time.' to beckon out four Friends who sat near the door. I desired
them to get behind the Emperor and keep the crowd back, which they
managed exceedingly well. I was glad to see John Wilkinson^ John
Bell, &c, under the gallery. A precious degree of solemnity covered.
the meeting. I showed the Emperor, the two Dukes, and the Count,
to a seat fronting the meeting; the Duchess preferred the first cross
form on the women's side. I sat opposite the Emperor on the first-
cross form.
The Emperor and the whole party conducted themselves with great
seriousness. The meeting remained in silence about a quarter of an
hour, in which time my mind was sweetly calmed and refreshed, in the
firm belief that the Great Master had the work in his own hands.
Richard Phillips then stood up with a short but acceptable address to
the meeting, and^soon .after John Wilkinson was engaged in explaining
the effects of. vital religion, and the nature of true worship, beautifully
applying the text, ' He is their strength and their shield.' After he sat
down, John Bell uttered a few sentences, and. John Wilkinson sweetly
concluded in supplication. I think I may say, Friends were evidently
owned in this their strait, and that nothing could have answered better,
if it had been ever so well contrived. After meeting, the Emperor and
his companions, with the Grand Duchess also, very kindly shook hands
with the Friends about them, and a passage being made through the.
middle of the meeting, I went before them to the carriage, they continu
ing to shake hands with the Friends as they passed. At the step of the
carriage, the Emperor, in French, appointed third-day, at ten o'clock,
for Friends to meet him at the Pulteney Hotel, limiting the deputation
to me and. the person who spoke second, which was John Wilkinson.
After he had got into the carriage, the mob thronging about us, the.
Count took me with him, and he confirmed the appointment with the
Emperor, as I was anxious to know whqther I understood it correctly :
he then kindly "took leave of me.
Sixth Month 20th. — Meeting of the African Institution. A commitee

1814. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 147
appointed to procure petitions. Some Friends who were about the
Pulteney Hotel alarmed us by bringing word that the Emperor had been
inquiring for us, and expected us that day, but this mistake probably
arosfi from his having asked for me on seventh-day night.
- In the evening, I had an interview with Count Lieven while he was
dressing; he received me in the most kind and familiar manner, and
again confirmed the appointment for the next day. I interceded to have
dear S. Grellet addeo! to the deputation, and after some consideration,
he thought he might venture upon it. He agreed also to give me an
opportunity for some conversation with himself, after the present bustle
is over, as he is to be resident in England.
I have been three times at the west end of the town to-day.
21st  Dear Stephen Grellet went with. us to the' Pulteney Hotel :
we took up the Address, together- with the following books, viz., Book
of Extracts) Barclay's Apology, Penn's No Cross, No Crown, and Penn's
Maxims. We arrived before ten, the street crowded as usual. A
policeman at the door at first prevented our alighting, but on sending
to the Emperor's valet, we were introduced into the great room, among
a number of persons who were strangers to us : here we were under
some exercise of mind, the Emperor having been engaged till six o'clock
that morning, was not up when we arrived, and we had to wait about
two hours and a half. At last a message came for us, and Stephen
Grellet, John Wilkinson, and I were shown up stairs. A gentleman
met us in an ante-room, and introduced us into an apartment where the
Emperor stood to receive us: he was quite alone and dressed in a plain
suit of clothes, and, with a look of benignity, seemed to meet us as
friends, rather than as strangers. I put the Address into his hands,
which, as he had seen the copy, he did not open, and then, on behalf of
the Society, presented him with the books. He, looked into each of
them, but appeared desirous of employing all the time in conversation.
We stood around him in the middle of the room, arid it seemed to be
our business to reply to his questions. The conversation was carried
on partly in English, which he spoke, and even pronounced very well,
and partly inN French; his questions were chiefly in reference to the
doctrines and practices of our Society, and evidently showed that he
was acquainted with the operations Of the Holy Spirit in the soul, and
considered forms and external observances, but of secondary importance.
On the subject of worship, he said, he agreed entirely with Friends,
that it was an internal and spiritual thing ; he said that he was himself
in the habit of daily prayer, that at first he employed a form of words,
but at length grew uneasy with them, as not always applicable to the
present state of his mind, and that now the subject of his prayer was
acc6rding to the impression he felt-ofhis wants at the time, and in this
exercise he felt sweet, peace. .

148 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1814.
He was desirous of knowing, whether any among us were set apart
for the ministry, and whether we had any particular form on such occa
sions, or appointed any to preach at particular times. We stated the
principle of Friends tohe, that no man could become a minister of the
gospel, but through the immediate influence of the Divine Spirit,- and
that the qualifications for this important office, could not be obtained by
mere human learning or study, or be bestowed by man ; that when any
member among us felt a conviction on his mind that it was his duty to
speak in our meetings for worship, he was permitted to do so ; if he
repeated it, he was considered as under probation, and at length the
subject was brought before a meeting-for discipline, where, if an evidence
was felt that the person was rightly called, he was^ acknowledged as a
minister by a minute of the meeting ; and that, as male and female were
one in Christ, we admitted women, who appeared rightly qualified) to
exercise their gift as ministers, according to the example of the primitive
church, in the instance of the four daughters of Philip. These subjects
drew from the Emperor many interesting and feeling expressions. He
remarked, that divine worship consisted not in outward . ceremonies' or
repetitions of words, which the wicked and the hypocrite might easily
adopt, but in having the mind prostrate before the Lord.
In conversing with S. Grellet in French, the Emperor feelingly re
marked upon the importance of the trust committed to him — the many
temptations with which he was surrounded, and the few to whom he
could open his heart upon such subjects, saying that it would be a pro
fanation of holy things to speak of them to persons in general. Our dear
friend, S. Grellet, under the pressure of gospel love, addressed a few
sentences to him in French : the Emperor, pressing S. Grellet's hands
with both of his,' was much contrited, and with tears in his eyes, said,
'These, your words, are a sweet cordial to my soul, they will long be
engraven upon my heart,' — indeed, several times during the opportunity,
he took one or other of us by the hand, and to John. Wilkinson he ex
pressed how fully his spirit united with him in prayer, at the meeting on
first-day. He said he had desired to have this opportunity, apprehend
ing that he was one in sentiment with us, and though, from his peculiar
situation, his practice must be different, yet the religion of Christ being
one, and his worship spiritual, he believed that in this we might all
unite. He stated how the Lord had made him acquainted with spiritual
¦religion, after which he had much sought it, and that herein he found
strength and consolation, adding that he, and all of us, were only placed
in this life to glorify God and be useful to one another, and that we
ought to strive to be prepared for another life.
• He expressed how much he was disgusted with the practice which
prevailed in this country, of setting several hours after dinner, saying it

1814. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 149
was a waste of that time which might be employed for the good of our
fellow creatures.
On S- G. congratulating him with having such a sister as the Duchess
of Oldenburg, who appeared to be one in religious sentiment with him,
he said it was a great favour — that they could freely converse together
on such subjects, and profit by each other's experience.
In addition to the subject of worship and ministry, the Emperor
asked several questions respecting marriage, and the domestic habits of
Friends. He inquired whether we associated with other persons, and
expressed a wish to see a Friend's house; but, from his peculiar situa
tion, and the shortness of the time, he being about to set off next
day, it seemed difficult to make any arrangement for it. He inquired
whether we suffered from government on account of our religious prin
ciples, and appeared pleased when informed that we were protected
and even favoured, and that though we were still under some sufferings
on account of tithes, &c, they were comparatively light. He asked
whether we were admitted to employments under government, and
seemed surprised^ when he was told that we were excluded on account
of the oaths and tests ; he remarked, however, that we were thereby
saved from the trouble attending such stations. He wished to know
whether we were admitted to universities', and" being informed that, in
England, we were prevented by the oaths and tests, he inquired why
we did not establish something of the kind for ourselves. S. G. having
directed his attention to suffering Africa, the Emperor went into the
subject with warmth of feeling,; saying, that the Africans were men,
and objects of redeeming love as well as ourselves ; and that when the
articles of peace were framing, he had done all he could for them, and
from what passed it appeared very plain, that if the cause of Africa
were given up in the treaty, it was no fault of the Emperor's.
I then addressed him upon the subject of establishments for training
the poorest of the people in habits of morality and virtue, and in useful
knowledge, and respectfully reminded him that he possessed the power,
in a greater degree than any other person now in existence, for doing
incalculable good in this way ; I briefly stated the plans now pursuing
in this country^ and the preference claimed by the British and Foreign
School Society,' and that it was well calculated to assist Bible societies:
the Emperor listened with marked attention, and said, 'It is indeed a
subject of great importance.'
The interview lasted about an hour, and the Emperor stood during
all that time ; his conduct throughout, though familiar and affectionate,
was dignified, and he seemed to converse as with friends whom he had
been long anxious to see. He inquired why none of our Friends had
come into his dominions to form religious establishments, and, « If any
of your Friends visit Petersburg on a religious account, let them not

150 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1814.
wait for any introduction, but come direct to me; and I'will do every
thing to promote your views.' He remarked'that he should never forget
this opportunity, and, as we withdrew, he took each of us by the hand,
and said, ' I part from you as from friends and brethren.' "
The following is a Copy of the Address presented by Friends to the
Emperor of Russia :—
"TO ALEXANDER, EMPEROR OF ALL THE RUSSIAS.
The respectful and affectionate Address of the Society of Friends, commonly called
Quakers.- " May it Please the Emperor,
"We have believed.it our duty to request, for a short time,-thy
favourable attention, to which also we are encouraged by considering
the great event which has opened thy way to visit this country, the
general restoration of peace to Europe. In this good work thou hast
been honourably made use of by 'the Almighty, and that with such
evident marks of clemenCy, as induce us to desire that the blessing
pronounced upon the merciful and the peacemakers, may continue to
rest upon thee.
As a religious body, we differ in many respects from all others ; Our
principle is, indeed, that of all true Christians, faith in our Lord and
Saviour Jesus Christ, and in the teachings of the Holy Spirit ; but, in
our practice, we believe if right to refrain^ from many customs both in
religious and civil life, which the generality of Christians think them
selves warranted to adopt. At our origin we were, on this account,
subject to much persecution, and although, by the continued favour of
the rulers of our country, for which we have ' ever been thankful to
them, and to God who we believe hath blessed them therein, we now
enjoy a large share of religious freedom; yet we have learned to feel
for those, in all parts of the world, who may be conscientiously obliged
to decline practices which, they believe to be inconsistent with the
spirit of the gospel.
The Lord has put it into thy heart to" promote the circulation of the
Holy Scriptures among thy subjects ; may he bless the endeavour to
promote their general improvement ! and as religious inquiry is row
widely spreading among the nations, and many pious persons are search
ing for themselves info the things pertaining to salvation ; we entreat
thee, Great Prince, to continue to be an indulgent protector of such up
right and conscientious subjects,"wherever found in thy extensive Empire.
Thus mayest thou obtain (which is the warmest wish of our hearts,
for any sovereign,) the approbation of the King of kings, and Lord of
lords : and thus, under his blessing, will the number of those who fear
him, and -work righteousness, be multiplied, and -the true support of
thy government strengthened.

1814. OF WILLIAM ALJ.EN. 151
May thy dependence ever be on the Lord and on his guidance ;
then will he direct thee in the work which he gives thee to do, strengthen
thee by his never-failing might, and finally receive thee to glory.
Signed in, and on behalf of a meeting, held in London, representing
the Society of Friends, in Great Britain, this 13th day of the Sixth
Month, one thousand eight hundred and fourteen, by
William Allen, Clerk to the Meeting.
The Address presented to the King of Prussia, was as follows : —
"TO FREDERICK WILLIAM THE THIRD, KING OF PRUSSIA.
"May it please the King,
"Seeing, that in consequence of the general pacification of Europe,
in which, under Providence, thou hast had so considerable a share,
thou art visiting this country, we, the Religious Society of Protestant
Dissenters, commonly called Quakers, apprehend it our duty, in Chris
tian love, respectfully to address thee.
We presume thou art informed that we are a people of peculiar
religious practices, in consequence of which, at our origin, we endured
no small persecution, and though by the favour of our government,
under the blessings of Divine Providence, we are now released from
such afflictions, we can sympathize with those in other parts of the
world, who may, from motives of conscience, founded on views of
Christian doctrine, believe it their duty to decline compliance with
certain established^ modes and practices. Of this description, we
apprehend there are many, in different parts of thy dominions, who
have experienced thy kind protection ; we, therefore, take the liberty
to solicit its continuance, as well as humbly to express to thee, 0 King,
our conviction that the tender paternal regard of a monarch to his con
scientious subjects, is a sure means of promoting the best ends of
government, as well as of drawing down upon himself the favour of
Almighty God.
Permit us to testify our sincere wishes for thy prosperity, and to
Congratulate thee on thy approaching peaceful return to thy states.
We ardently desire that the adversity of which thou hast partaken,
may be sanctified through the dedication of thy heart unto the Lord ;
then shall thy temporal crown, when the account of thy stewardship is
rendered up, be exchanged, through the mercy of our Redeemer, for a
kingdom that cannot be shaken.
Signed in, and on behalf of a meeting held in London, representing
the Society of Friends, commonly called Quakers, in Great Britain,
this 13th day of the Sixth Month, one thousand eight hundred and
fourteen, by William Allen, Clerk to the Meeting.

152 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1814.
The following answer was transmitted, a few days afterwards, through
Baron Jacobi. It was written in German, and was translated thus :
" I value the sentiments which the respectable Society of Quakers
have exhibited- in their Address of the 13th instant, and I declare, here
by, my most cordial thanks for their good -wishes expressed therein,
and for the books- presented to me.
(Signed)
Frederick William."
" To Mr. William Allen,
" Secretary to the Society of Quakers."
" Sixth Month 23d.— Abolition Committee, New London Tavern —
worked hard at the letters ; there again in the afternoon — staid till half-
past seven.
24th  Abolition Committee, directing letters, &c. Above two
thousand in the whole sent Off by this post.
26th. — At the committee room, Cheapside, receiving parchments
with signatures to the London petition against the Slave Trade.
21th. — Committee room, Cheapside,-^great bustle about the London
petition against the Slave Trade ; country petitions coming in ; Special
Meeting for sufferings on Slave trade— appointed one of the committee
on a petition— drew up one and gave it to John Eliot to correct.
28th. -^Committee of Meeting for Sufferings at nine o'clock. Agreed
to the petition ; committee room, answering letters, receiving country
petitions, &c, &c. Arrangements for conducting business agreed upon.
Meeting for Sufferings : Friends' petitions signed ; Luke Howard
and I took them up ; that for the Commons delivered to Wilberforce.
Hesitation in the House of Lords on account of our scruple about the
title ' Lords Spiritual.' '
29th. — Committee room, — answering letters and country petitions.
To the House of Lords, — tried to get the petition in, but the form still
objected to.
Sixth Month 30th. — Committee roOm — up again at the House of
Lords about our petition ; conference with the Duke of Gloucester,
Lord Stanhope, and Lord Holland, all of whom will render what assist
ance fhey can, and the Lord Chancellor is disposed to admit it; we
must persevere, — it is now an affair of privilege, and if we are rejected,
our way is blocked up from addressing one branch of the legislature."
It appears, by a letter addressed to John GJaisyer, of Brighton, who
forwarded a copy of it to William Allen, that the Emperor of Russia
had felt so much interest in the Society of Friends, that, when at Ports
mouth, he expressed an inclination to "visit a family of that persua
sion, and stop for half an hour to have a little friendly conversation."
Lord Sidmouth signified the Emperor's desire, and arrangements were
accordingly made for John Glaisyer to -receive him ; when he reached

1814. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 153
Brighton, however, the crowd was so great, that he passed on without
fulfillingvhis intention, but J. G". subsequently adds —
" I think thou wilt be pleased to learn that the Emperor was not
willing readily to give up his wish to see a Friend's family. My cousin,
Nathaniel Rickman and his wife, were standing at their own gate last
first-day afternoon, to see the Emperor pass ; he seeing they had the ap
pearance of Friends, desired the driver to stop, when he alighted, and
asked N. R. if they were not of the people called Quakers, being
answered in the affirmative, he requested liberty to go into the house,
which, of course, was most willingly granted. The Duchess then
alighted, and they all went together ; shortly afterwards the Duchess
asked if they might go over the house, and they were accordingly con
ducted into the principle apartments, the neatness of which they
praised. On returning to the parlour they were invited to take some re
freshments, which they did, and seemed much pleased with the attention.
On finding that the family had not heard of the Emperor having
had any communication with Friends in London, he gave them an ac
count of his having been at meeting, and also of the conversation he had
had with some members of the Society in an interview, out of meeting.
They seemed unwilling to take leave, but said, two or three times, that
they had to go as far as Dover that night, and they wished to know
whether they should pass any more Friends' houses on the road ; they
said they had intended to go to one at Brighton, but could not get there
for the crowd — they wished to be remembered to Friends generally,
said it was not likely they should ever see each other again, but they
hoped they should not be forgotten. On parting, the Emperor kissed
Mary Rickman's hand, and the. Duchess kissed her; they shook hands
cordially with N. R.,. saying— 'Farewell.' They staid about twenty
minutes, and, during their conversation, the Emperor spoke in praise
of the Friends he had seen in London ; he behaved, throughout, in the
most free and affable manner possible. As thou wilt probably hear
several reports, respecting this circumstance, I thought it as well to give
thee rather a particular account."
" Seventh Month 1st. — To the Borough Road to meet Prince Radze-
ville and Czartorisky, and two other Polish nobles; the Marquis of
Lansdowne was there also.
2nd. — Very low about dear J. G. Bevan, who is alarmingly ill ;
nature seems failing rapidly."
In alluding to the affairs at the Borough Road, W. A. mentions
that— " The female department is now wholly under the control of a ladies'
committee, who have raised a fund for its support ; Lady Elizabeth
Whitbread and Lady Darnley are amongst its members.
As J. L. is abusing us in printed handbills, Fox and I think we owe

154 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1814.
it to ourselves and the cause not to go into a controversy with him,
but, once for all, to publish a brief- narrative of facts, abstaining from
reflections, while we leave the public to form their own conclusions.
Upon the whole the prospect brightens before us, and we have not
the smallest doubt of ultimate and complete success. We have been
helped in a most remarkable and providential manner, in a work
which we have every reason to believe is of the Lord.
Seventh Month 3rd. — Evening meeting at five, by desire of Sarah
Grubb, for those not of our society ; meeting full and satisfactory.
Dear S. G. excellent.
5th.— Went np to Harley street to see Count Lieven, and was very
kindly received ; he appointed seventh-day, at ten, for a conference on
school concerns. -, ,
6th.< — Attended a meeting at Spitalfields on the SlaVe Trade ; went
to the House of Lords with Friends,' .petition, addressed 'to the Lords
in Parliament assembled:' after a considerable debate it was received,
and thus a precedent is established.
9th. — To Count Lieven's, Harley, Street; had an important conver
sation with him , about educating the poor in Russia. He desires me
to suggest a plan, in writing, which he may read to the Emperor; this
is just what I wanted ; he introduced me to Wilson, a person from
Russia, who is going to Scotland.
Things in Spain and France look gloomy and threatening. Bona
parte has given such a bias in favour of a military life, by the training
of the children, that the people, or rather the soldiery, are unquiet
under the restraints of peace."
The review of the following week says —
"Faith and hope at a low ebb this week; — discouraged by a feeling
of my own weaknesses, and assailed by fears ; lest, instead of support
ing the great cause of truth and righteousness, in this stripping time, I
should bring a reproach.
The uneasiness in my side is come on again.
20th. — Meeting ; a precious degree of consolation ; went up after
wards to atfeno! the committee for distressed manufacturers.
22nd — W. H. Pepys and I went to Greenwich ; attended ihe visi
tation at the Royal Observatory; Groombridge, of Blackheath, also
showed us his observatory ; about thirty or forty of us afterwards dined
together, — a pleasant day. Important information from Leonard Hor
ner, of a society for the poor in Holland.
23rd. — S. Grellet and L. Howard came ; considering of a letter fo
Bavaria, &c."
This letter was in reference to a subscription raised amongstFriends,
the object of which is thus described by W. A. in a letter to Joseph
Gurney : —

1814^ OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 155
" Stephen Grellet informed us, that in the neighbourhood of Munich
some thousands of pious persons were awakened to a sense of the im
portance of vital religion, and the inefficacy of mere forms. He read
several letters showing, that they had the circulation of the Holy Scrip
tures much at heart, but that they were dissatisfied with their own
translation, and yet not prepared to receive ours, or rather fearing that
the opposition which it must certainly encounter, would crush their
usefulness ; they are therefore making a translation for themselves, but
from their poverty and the pressure of the war, they cannot get through
without some assistance. There are impediments to their receiving it
from the Bible Society, and it was the unanimous opinion of Friends
that a subscription should be raised, not only for this purpose, but foT
the relief of those who were suffering persecution ; one of them had
died in consequence of a severe whipping from the inflamed populace.
A committee of several Friends is- appointed to correspond with the
parties, and act according to circumstances."
"Seventh Month 24th. — Meeting; low, but endeavouring to keep
my mind centred, as before Him who is always present, though invisi
ble, I was favoured with a little refreshment,.
25th. — A little revival of faith and hope.
The uneasiness in my side seems inrceased by whatever strongly
fixes my attention or depresses my spirits.
29th. — Committee at the Borough Road School; dinner about four;
Count Bournon, J. Fox, G- Harrison, and T. Clarkson; we had some
interesting conversation about schools in France."
In writing to, S. Grellet, a few days afterwards, W. A. says —
" The Count de Bournon, a French Royalist, with whom I have
been long acquainted, called, and informed me that he had an appoint
ment under the King of France, and resided in the palace. He wished
for information on the subject of prison discipline, particularly what
had been done in America, and was also much interested in the plans
for the education of the poor. The Count is, as well as myself, a Fel
low of the Royal Society of London, and is also a mineralogist. Thus
a door is opened in France, which he represents as in a deplorable
state with regard to education, except as far as relates to the training
of soldiers.
Eighth Month 4th. — To Count Lieven's, Harley street; an interesting
conversation on the subject of schools and my letter thereon to the
Emperor ; I gave him Clarkson's two volumes of the Abolition, and
he presented me with a seal cut out of a fine piece of hair crystal from
Siberia. 6th.— To Count Lieven's again with books and lessons for the school
concern; he seems deeply interested, and promises to forward my letter

156 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1814.
to the Emperor of Russia, who he is confident will adopt the system
recommended. 8th  Morning Meeting . of Ministers and Elders ; a memorable
time. The concern of Sarah Hustler to accompany Elizabeth Cogges-
haH on her visit to some parts of the continent of Europe, was laid
before the meeting, and much unity being expressed with the dear
Friends, I thought for a long time that I might be excused from saying
anything, but these words of our dear Lord, when speaking of his
sheep, were presented with such clearness that I felt constrained to
repeat. them,, ' I give unto them eternal life ; and they shall never perish,
neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.' It humbled me
very much, but the peace which followed, and the undoubted evidence
far exceeded any thing I had felt before."
It was W. Allen's usual practice to spend a few weeks from home,
with his family, during the summer, in order to obtain some relaxation
from that constant round of occupation,- unavoidably attendant upon
his continuance in London ; and this was, at times, really requisite,
to recruit his health : this year he went for that purpose to New Lanark.
In the course of the journey, they visited several manufactories and
other objects of interest, and passed through some of the fine mountain
scenery of the North of England, where he again indulged in one of
his favourite recreations of taking angles and measuring the height of
mountains. They reached New Lanark on the 23rd of Eighth Month, and found
that R. Owen had kindly provided every thing for their accommodation,
in a separate house, at the works." W. A. was much pleased with the
romantic beauties of the Clyde, the Falls of which he describes as the
finest thing of the kind he had ever seen. On the 26th he writes—
"Spent most of the evening with Owen-, at his residence, at Brax-
field ; he walked about with me, and we had much painful Conversation
on the subject of his peculiar opinions."
This was very, depressing to W. A.,, but he says —
" My mind is yet, at times, sweetly supported with the feeling of
divine good ; there is no consolation equal to what is received in this
Way." He afterwards observes —
" I found the arrangements, with regard to the manufacturing part,
excellent, and even beyond my, expectations ; but, alas! Owen, with
all his cleverness and benevolence, wants the one thing, without which,
parts and acquirements and benevolence are unavailing.
Ninth Month 15th. — This morning we received the affecting intelli
gence, that dear J. G. Bevan was suddenly removed from this proba
tionary scene on second-day last, between three and four o'clock in

1814. OF WILLIAM ALLEN- 157
the afternoon. It proved a great shock, as I had indulged the hope
of seeing him once more; this is a loss I shall, long and deeply feel."
J. Fox had shortly before joined their party, and W. A. says —
" Sat down with.R. Owen and J. Fox to a most important discussion
ofseveral points in the articles of partnership, particularly those relating
to the training of the children, and the use of the Holy Scriptures in
the schools. , The latter, Fox and I made a sine qua non, at least as
far as we are concerned, and Owen at length yielded.
- 11th. — Preparing to quit Lanark — took leave of the principal ser
vants, then went to Braxfield and had rather a heavy parting there, as
we felt much regard for Owen's amiable family, who have uniformly
been studious- to heap kindness upon us. We set off about twelve
o'clock, R. Owen and J. Fox accompanying us ; the day was very
fine, and the country, in some parts, beautiful. We reached Edinburgh
about dusk, and were most hospitably received and entertained by our
kind friends, Alexander, and Ann Cruickshank. R. Owen and J. Fox
Went to the Union Hotel.
Ninth Month 18th.^-A bad headache, but went to meeting both in
the-morning and afternoon. Many persons attend regularly who are
not members of our Society."
W- -A. and some of his party went into Perthshire to visit the mills
at Stanley ; he says —
" The view of the Tay and its highly cultivated valley, on approach
ing Perth, is very fine." After leaving Stanley, where he says the
country is beautiful, they proceeded to Dunkeld. "Here," he ob
serves, " we come among mountains and enter the Highlands. We
went through the charming grounds of the Duke of Athol to the Her
mitage, Rumbling Bridge, &c. ; here a waterfall dashes amongst the
huge rocks which are scattered along the bed of the torrent, in the
utmost confusion ; close by it is an elegant room like a summer-house,
called the Temple of Ossian ; opposite the entrance is a picture of the
blind Bard, with his favourite dogs, well painted, and as large as life ;
chairs are placed that the company may all sit and admire the picture
by the aid of a sky-light,, when, oh a sudden, the whole is withdrawn
into a recess, and you see a handsome room beyond, with the waterfall
appearing through the front windows. On going into the room, pannels
of looking-glass, placed at different angles, multiply views of the fall,
and a very large mirror, in the ceiling, gives it the appearance of roll
ing down upon, one's head. The grounds of the Duke are indeed
delightful. Lt is said that the old gardener, who died a few years ago,
planted fourteen millions of trees. The crags and mountains are gen
erally covered with wood, not only fir, but beech, ash, &c.
We afterwards ascended Craig-y- Barns, which, according to the
barometer, is nine hundred and thirty-nine feet above the Tay. The

158 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1814.
rocks are truly grand, and appear to consist of micaceous slate. The
convolutions of the laminae in many instances afford a striking resem
blance to huge masses of petrified trunks of trees. The ascent was by
a finely wooded path., and from the top we had a view of at least forty
miles into the Highlands ; the Tay was seen beautifully winding through
a long valley between high mountains, and the top of Schehallion was
visible in the distance : then turning and looking towards Dunkeld, we
had a rich prospect of cultivated land, the grounds and mansion of the
Dukeof Athol were at our feet, the town and bridge beneath us, and
Birnam Hill and wood, so famed in history, on the opposite side. The
weather was very fine, and I regretted that our time was so limited.?'
Fifth-day ,the22nd, after their return to Edinburgh, W. Allen writes —
"Attended meeting, and then went to the observatory, where Pro
fessor Playfair, Lord Webb Seymour, Sir George Mackenzie, Jardiney
&c, received us very kindly. They have a good transit instrument^
and a telescope about three feet achromatic, aperture three and a half
inches, made by Tully. They have also a very pretty camera ofescura,
which throws the image upon a concave white table, like that at the
Royal Observatory, Greenwich, but smaller. It gives a fine panoramic
view of Edinburgh, the Frith of Forth, and all the country round., as
the glass moves upon a centre. The above gentlemen, except Playfair,
afterwards dined with us at Thomas Allan's, whose magnificent collection
of minerals interested us much.
Ninth Month 23rd. — R. Owen, J. Fox and I went to Hutton, about
eight miles distant, to breakfast with Francis Jeffries, the editor of the
Edinburgh Review. We were very .kindly received, and I had some in
teresting conversation with him in the garden alone, when I gently
expostulated with him on the treatment Friends had met with in this
Review, and he frankly acknowledged that he knew but little about us.
We conversed also on the school concern. J. Fox proposed his insert
ing something in the next number on the subject of our subscription,
which he readily agreed to do, and I think the interview will be of great
use." The subscription here alluded to, refers to the plan which had been
receatly adopted by tbe committee, in order to extricate the British and
Foreign School Society from debt, and place it on a permanent footing ;
it was resolved to endeavour to raise ten thousand pounds, in gifts of
one hundred pounds each ; the subscriptions, as they were paid in, to
be vested in the funds, in the names of trustees, under certain conditions,
specified in a circular^ issued by the committee ; and W. A. says, " Fox
and I think it right to make every exertion on this account." -He after
wards adds in a letter to a friend —
" Lord Webb Seymour has desired me to put down his name for one
hundred pounds ; also one of the Strutts of Derby. The fact is, that,

1814. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 159
notwithstanding all our printing and publishing, the real merits of the
case are far from being generally known : we have made a point of
seeing and conversing with as many persons of influence as possible,
and I trust have -done much good."
-On returning from Hutton, they met Lord W. Seymour, and went
to see the Bridewell, which W. A. says "is on the panoptican plan,
and beautifully neat and clean in all its parts." The next day they
visited several Institutions, amongst which was Heriot's Hospital,
where one hundred and seventy boys, sons of freemen, are boarded and
educated. On his journey to London, W. A. attended the Quarterly Meeting for
Durham, held at Newcastle, and also that at York ; at the latter place,
he partook of interesting association with a number of benevolent and
excellent persons, which he appears to have much enjoyed, and on the
8th of Tenth Month, having reached Bugden, he says —
"Joseph Fox and I breakfasted with Dr. Maltby, the brother-in-law
to the Bishop of Lincoln; he has long been a friend to the school plan,
and readily undertook to try to raise one hundred pounds at Cambridge,
for us.
Tenth Month 11th. — Favoured to reach Stoke Newington in health
and safety, on second-day afternoon, after our long journey, and felt, I
trust, reverently thankful. My feelings were excited on entering the
late abode, of our dear J. G. B., but I had a comforting belief that he
was safely landed.
The crowd of engagements pressing upon me, produces much
anxiety ; the office of an executor to the will of dear J. G. B., will in
crease my cares.
Dear S. Grellet has returned from Ostend, being disappointed in a
passage, to America ; we are trying to obtain leave for him to go in the
Jenny, from Dartmouth.
18th.. — To Westminster again, about 5. G. ; leave granted ; Dyer
,of the Admiralty very kind. Then with Thomas Harrison, to N. Van
sittart and Lord Bathurst's office, to solicit a free passage in the trans
port, going to Sierra Leone,for Sutherland, and the African boys.
19//i.— Meeting ; a sweet confirming time, in which the wing of
divine goodness seemed to be spread over us ; dear S. Grellet was
there, tfhd we afterwards had an affecting parting with him at Thomas
Christy's ; he sets off to Dartmouth to-day, whither George Stacey and
his wife are about to accompany him.
20th.^-To R. H. Martin, about African concerns; then to Lord
Bathurst's office, about a passage for the schoolmaster, &c, to Sierra
Leone ; learned from Gordon, his private secretary, who behaves very
kindly, that leave was granted.
21 si, — Conference with Sutherland ; find they must set off directly;

160 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1.814.
appointment with George Harrison, at one o'clock. School committee,
Borough Road,- ait two ; had all the African boys to tea.
.22nd. — Went with T. F. Forster, to Governor Maxwell, — had an
interesting interview with him. Took leave oPSutherland and the
Africans, trained at the Borough Road school, viz. : — George Fox,
Joseph Smith, William Allen, and James Coy ; gave them some books ;
they go to Portsmouth to-night." , " 267A of Tenth<Month, 1814.
" To Richard Reynolds,
"A young man, of the name of Martintis just arrived from Bour-
deaux to learn the plan at the Borough Rqad ; he. is sent by fjie pro- '
testant synod. A young man from Germany also applied to be taken
in at the last committee, and a gentleman of the name of Moran,-who
has lived most of his time in Spain, and was sent by the late Cortes to
obtain information in this country, has learned the plan and is setting
off for France, where he. purposes zealously to propagate the -system;
he intends in the first instance, to establish a school at Paris at his own
expense ; the work is increasing so fast that we ought to, have nothing
else to do but to attend to it.
I have lately received more than twenty letters from Sierra Leone,
with much important information. Ourjittle plan for the settlers pro
mises very fair. The Enterprise, just arrived, has brought us a remit
tance of above three hundred pounds, in camwood, rice, palm oil, and
coffee ; this, together with what they sent before, if sold, as I hope it
will be, will make a balance in their favour ; they have also- sent a list
of articles wanted, which will, perhaps, amount to seven or eight hun
dred pounds, and we are preparing to ship them in the Wilding."
It appears, that though the Enterprise was arrived, she had been
taken and plundered on her passage, and was afterwards recaptured,
but the goods belonging to the Friendly Society were insureds ,0n
the 29th of Tenth Month, "W. A. writes—
" The Sierra Leone business, school concern, and « Philanthropist,'
occupied much of this week. I must get Governor Maxwell to write
to Governor Macafthur to have a favourable .eye on the Friendly So
ciety. 31st. — Went to Dr. Marcet's, Russel Square, to meet Deba^sin, ad
ministrates, going out, by order of the French government, to the
East Indies ; also Labord, a French engineer. I explained the school
plan to them,. with which they were highly delighted, and intend to
establish it in the Isles of Bourbon and France."
Eleventh Month. — W. Allen's morning lectures at the Hospitalbegan
on the 1st of this month, and the evening course on the 8th ; he usually
gave two of each in the week, and on -the 14th says —

1814. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 161
« Much hurried with various engagements.
Eleventh Month 24th  Attended the. committee of the West London
School Association.
30th. — Went to the Royal Society's dinner ; I find that they have
elected me one of the council.
Twelfth Month  Staid at Newington all day improving lectures.
26th. — Review of last week.
This was indeed a memorable week ; on seventh-day, the 24th, John
Walker, Joseph Fox, Joseph Foster, Michael Gibbs, and I, signed the
articles of partnership in the Lanark concern, and forwarded them to R.
Owen for his signature; glad should I have been if I could have avoid
ed it ; but considering all the religious feelings which have attended
my mind on this subject for a year past, I considered it my duty to
join, and signed in the faith that I was brought into it for some purpose
not seen as yet. Looking upon it on the prudential side, I cannot but
see the risk of a great concern, so interwoven with the state of human
politics and continental arrangements ; also the great stake committed
very much to the prudence of one man. On the other hand, the sense
of duty I felt in engaging in it ; the prayers I have put up night and day,
that if it were wrong I might feel a timely check ; that it would not be
generous to desert some of the other parties, who maintained that they
would have nothing to do with it, but on condition of my being one ; the
probability that I may be the bond of union between them ; the wide
field of usefulness where we have the control of three thousand people ;
the strength I might give in opposing any infidel plans of R. O.'s, — all
these have turned the scale, and I must leave the result in the hands of
Infinite Wisdom ; and 0,that I and mine maybe under his protection!"
A short time previous to this date, W. A. received a letter from one
of the partners, in which he says —
" Let me urge you to recollect how much the welfare and happiness,
of the present and future population at New Lanark, may depend on
having you with us, and when you reflect on this, I think you will not
desert us at so critical a moment."
" Twelfth Month 21th. — Most important public news reached town
last night, that the treaty of peace with America was signed at Ghent
on the 24th. — The Prince Regent has ratified the treaty, and sent it to
Portsmouth, whence it will doubtless be forwarded with all expedition
to America ; the war party are very angry about it."
Professor Hope, of Edinburgh, being absent when William Allen
visited that city, thus alludes to his disappointment :
" I find it difficult to express how much I regret having been in the
country when you were in Edinburgh. I had not heard of the circum
stance from any of my friends, and must only hope that their kindness
was such as to induce you to come again to this quarter. Should you
Vol. I. 11

162 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1815.
be so tempted, I would earnestly beg that you would let me know a
little while before your arrival, that I might either not quit Edinburgh,
or, if possible, return to it in order to have the satisfaction of requiting
in kind, the civilities I have experienced from you in town.
I should have been most happy to have pointed out to you what was
most interesting to a scientific traveller ; and perhaps my chemical ap
paratus might have afforded you some little amusement.
I should be very glad to know what doctrine you teach now with
regard to oxymuriatic acid. Are you yet a convert to chlorine ? I am
impatient to see Lussac's paper on iodine, in particular to learn how far
the facts respecting that substance go to confirm the new views of
chlorine. Lussac appears to be a convert to Davy's sentiments, and
certainly the acquisition of one who so strenuously opposed them, must
be accounted a very flattering occurrence. I am, my dear sir,
Yours most truly,
Thomas Charles Hope."

CHAPTER VI.
1815. — Reflections — Letters from Bavaria — Letter to Richard Reynolds — Lecture — Com
panion to the Transit Instrument — Juvenile Depredators — Letter from the Duke of Kent,
from Professor Pictet — Saving's Banks— School Meeting at Bristol — Clifton Excursions-
Success of School Plans — Paul Cuffee — Letter from H..Cockfield — Letter to Robert Owen
— Lecture — London Institution — Letter to Count Lieven — Duke of Orleans and Count L.
visit the Borough Road — Correspondence with Richard Reynolds — Duke of Kent's Affairs.
" First Month, 1815 — The present year opens with a prospect of
general peace over the world. The American treaty is sent to the
President of the United States, Madison, to be ratified ; and it is thought
he must do it, or run the risk of a dissolution of the Union. The pro
ceedings of the Congress, at Vienna, are involved in much obscurity.
It seems likely that our Ministers must give up the Income Tax ; but,
in that case, they will be sadly at a loss for money ; retrenchment of
unnecessary expenses, and rigid economy, ought to be the order of the
day ; the oppression of tithes ought also to be removed, and a general
confederacy of all good men should be formed to promote plans for
raising the moral character and increasing the comforts of the poor.
Our ten thousand pounds subscription to the British and Foreign
School Society amounts to about twelve hundred paid in — eighty-eight
hundreds more wanted.
2nd. — Went to the sub-committee of the Westminster school con
cern ; they were debating about the lessons at Horseferry Road. I
suggested that they should leave out Freame's questions, retaining only

1815. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 163
the words of Scripture ; all seemed pleased with this proposal, which
was agreed to, and they declared that they did not wish one word of
the text to be omitted.
1th. — Borough Road committee at twelve o'clock; agreed to send
for Frossard of Montauban. Admitted another African lad from Colonel
Maxwell. 9th — Bavarian committee with Josiah Forster, &c."
Some of the communications addressed to this committee, by those
pious persons in the neighbourhood of Munich, who were so zealously
engaged in promoting the circulation of the Scriptures (see page 155)
were of a very interesting character. The following is a copy of one of
their letters, which was signed by eight Roman Catholics, six of whom
were priests : —
" Encouraged by the brotherly visit of our dear friend Stephen Grellet,
of North America, we address ourselves to you, our dear friends, to
acquaint you with our undertaking, and to solicit your prayers, as well
as your active assistance. As we have now tasted how good the Lord
is, and know, from experience, how infinitely rich and happy the in
comparable knowledge of Jesus Christ renders every one who esteems
all things, in comparison therewith, but as loss and as dross, we wish
that all men, but especially our countrymen and fellow-professors, may
become acquainted therewith. To this end, wherever a door is
opened, and an opportunity is presented, both when we speak and
when we write, we bear testimony to Christ, and declare that in him
alone is salvation. At the same time, we feel the loss which the in
habitants sustain from not being in possession of the written word of
God, from being unable to read in the wonderful book of the Lord,
what we testify to them, and what they have, in some degree, known
by experience.
We have ample proof how the poor would rejoice, how delighted
they would be, how their faith would be strengthened and confirmed,
if they had the means of reading in the Bible of what they inwardly
feel, or believe from the testimony of others. Our care and attention
will be principally employed in faithfully editing the pure uncorrupted
written word of God, without any addition, commentary, or interpreta
tion. As it has been our privilege not to believe in men, but in God
and his word ; we have no desire by human additions, to deceive or
blind others, and to lead them from the true light. We heartily unite
with eyery one who reveres the Bible, in the wish to put it into the
hands of our brethren, as it came from God, arid was penned by the
evangelists and apostles. There are many who can afford to purchase
the New Testament at a low price, but a much greater number to
whom it must be given. Our native country is almost exhausted
and impoverished by the repeated plunder and requisitions of the French,

164 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1815.
and by the taxes and enormous burdens of the war during the last
twenty years ; but many are become more hungry and solicitous for the
written word of God. The field is indeed extensive, but the seed is
insufficient and scarce. May the means be put into our power to cover
the field with seed; stretch out to us your liberal hands; grant us what
God may-direct, who has in his abundant mercy blessed you. You
give it to him who has made us poor and hungry for his word."
The above communication was accompanied by the following extract
of a letter from a priest, or cure, addressed to Gossner of Munich: —
" I am very sorry that you have not sent me some Bibles, and some
of that book called the ' Heart of Man.' The desire for this book among
my people is so great that I am at a loss how to satisfy them. Brethren,
we must now lose no time. It is the time of God's salvation which he
hath given. Do, do your best, all of you, to let us have the scriptures
and the books I have mentioned. I have occasion every week for some
of them ; there is more and more stirring both of good and evil ; per
secution is approaching, but at the same time the hunger for the truth
increases, and the number of sincere believers is augmented from day
to day. I beg it therefore of you, and of all the brethren in Christ, who
are interested in the good work, to supply us every week with as many
Bibles as they can. It is now that they do good more especially, the
people being eager for them ; without this it would be of little avail to
distribute them. Volk and my family salute you as brethren — may the
grace of God increase and be established in all of us, through the sprink
ling of the blood of Jesus Christ. Amen."
In a letter from Gossner, dated Munich, Twelfth Month, 1814, he
says —
" We are now so suspected that we may very likely be complained
of to the Pope : but our head is Christ, who sitteth at the right hand
of God, and dwelleth in our hearts ; therefore we fear not much from the
power of man. He who is in us is stronger than he who is in the world.
Wild has informed us from Frankfort, that the books from you are
arrived : we hope to receive them shortly, at which we are pleased, and
sincerely thank you for them.
The Lord works upon a soul here and there and reveals his love to
it ; the kingdom of God among us increases and extends.
Think of us when you wait upon the Lord, and his spirit influences
you. Your friend, Gossner."
« First Month 15th — More zeal is wanting in my own case to keep
my mind in a disposition to watch for opportunities to promote the
spiritual welfare of others. Entangled, as I am, with external objects,
it requires a continual effort to abstract the mind from them, so that
they shall not wean it from a sense of the divine presence.

1815. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 165
I have begun a little tract on worship, and feel a degree of satisfac
tion in his part of the allotment of my time.
We are making progress with our school concern, and have been
much engaged in organizing plans for auxiliary school societies.
25th. — Meeting ; African Institution at one, the Duke of Gloucester
there. 26th. — Royal Society Rooms at three ; attended the first council
since my appointment, and took my affirmation.
28th. — At Newington all day improving lectures — earths and soils,
No. 30 ; this is all new. Observation on the sun.
Second Month 3rd. — The remains of John Kendal, one of the oldest
and most exemplary members of our religious society, are to be interred
at Colchester this day.
10th. — School committee at Paul's Coffee House, Paul's Church
Yard, for the first time. We have agreed to make the meetings of the
committee more public, and to come forward boldly. They are to be
regularly held at this place in future on the second sixth-day in every
month, at twelve o'clock, and every member of a country committee
shall have the privilege of attending when in town ; also all ministers,
either of the church of England or dissenters, provided they are sub
scribers. We have worked long enough in private, and must now try
the temper of the country.
Had an interview with F. Wontner and H. Attley, who brought
four Lascars to Plough Court. They gave me some important papers,
which I sent to Francis Horner, M. P.
Judge Thorpe has published a book full of reflections on the African
Institution. Second Month 15th. — Went to Horner's, &e, about Lascars.
16th. — Lascars' committee at Plough Court ; full attendance ; Wil
berforce, F. Horner, and Sir J. Jackson were there ; the business is
taken up with spirit, of which I am extremely glad.
20^. — Went to the Lascar Barracks at Ratcliff; a dismal place. I
hope something will be done in Parliament for these poor creatures.
28th. — African Institution — committee on Sierra Leone affairs first.
We have had several meetings on Thorpe's book; there is a spirit of
malevolence in it which I could not countenance; yet there are some
truths, and I cannot put my hand to a paper which shall be calculated
to contradict the whole. There was one of the largest boards I have
ever seen — Lord Grenville, the Marquis of Lansdowne and many others.
Tfdrd Month 2nd. — Capital punishment committee ; Honourable G.
Vernon, Parks, of Warwick, &c.
6th  Went with J. Barry to Freemasons' Tavern to attend a general
meeting of chemists and druggists, on the Apothecaries' Bill — agreed
to petition against it.

166 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1815.
Great subscription for school, now nearly eighteen hundred pounds.
Hth. — To Newington by six o'clock coach — a beautiful star-light
evening, and had a high treat in my observatory ; took eleven obser
vations." W. Allen received a letter from Dr. Hamel,- of Petersburg, during
the stay of the latter at New Lanark, in which he says —
" This is an interesting spot, not only on account of the romantic
beauties which the Clyde affords, but particularly on account of the
establishment. I regard Mr. Owen as a man of a clear head, a good
heart, perfect sincerity and pure benevolence ; but what are we to think
as to his principles of religion ? I am sure he has nothing but the hap
piness of mankind in view, but will he be happy himself?
I ought to tell you that I received lately an official letter from the
Minister of the Interior, wherein his excellency informs me that he has
written to Vienna and informed his Majesty that after his return to St.
Petersburg he would have the honour to lay before him my account of
the new system of education. In the same letter he states that his
Imperial Majesty has been graciously pleased to allow me three years
more time and means for travelling in this and other countries. Is not
that a good Sovereign ?
Allow me to mention, that I consider it as a providential circumstance
that I should have been (almost accidentally) introduced to you within
the first days of my coming to London ; had this not been the case, I
hardly should have got acquainted with the important education con
cerns, and should not have met with a number of persons, who have
proved very interesting and useful to me and shown me the greatest
possible civilities. Your name has frequently served me as a passport."
Third Month 13th. — Alarming news from France, viz. — that Bona
parte landed near Frejus in the south, hot far from Marseilles, between
the third and fourth. If he is joined by the army there will be dreadful
work. School concern ; great subscription ; nearly two thousand pounds.
14th  Greek before breakfast. Hospital lecture in the morning,
No. 4, hydrogen ; experiments with Dr. Wollaston and Pepys. Dinner,
Martin, &c. A long consultation with J. Fox about school concerns,
hardly any time to look at my lecture. Hospital in the evening, No.
18, magnetism, — very satisfactory.
15th.— Conference with T. F. Forster, P. Bedford and Cornelius
Hanbury, about criminals, and the best means of reforming them. P.
B. and Cornelius to get facts.
16th. — To Suffolk street, to attend a committee of the African Insti
tution on Dixon's book, but nobody met.
Third Month 20th. — Alarming accounts of the progress of Bonaparte
and the defection of the French troops about the middle of the week,

1815. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 167
but more favourable news on seventh-day. It does not appear that he
has left Lyons, and it is said that he meets with a gloomy reception
there ; that he has fourteen thousand men with him, but ill provided ;
that some regiments which have gone over to him have returned.
Mysterious are the ways of Providence.
23rd. — Bonaparte enters Paris, and resumes his authority without
resistance. — A general meeting of the proprietors of the London Insti
tution, to consider of building in Moorfields. — Council of the Royal
Society at half-past three. Dr. Thorpe has published again in reply
to the manifesto of the African Insitution.
Fourth Month 3rd. — A precious solemn time at the Quarterly' Meet
ing on third-day. My dear brother Joseph was powerfully and excel
lently engaged in supplication. 0, that he may be preserved, with my
own soul! We had several instructive communications afterwards.
A sweet impression was left on my mind during the week.
4th. — Committee of refuge about young culprits.
8th  At dinner, Frossard from Montauban, who is come to learn
the school system ; Dr. Evans, who kindly gave me some more instruc
tion relative to stars, &c.
10th. — Faint yet pursuing. 0, that I may be safely directed and
mercifully preserved in the road towards a better country ! One ray
from this region of light, is more consolatory than the concentrated
beams of the world's sunshine.
In public affairs there is an awful suspense, but I fear that the
balance will preponderate for war, which may ultimately lead to dire
ful consequences. O, that the language uttered to Daniel might be
applied to me and mine, ' Thou shalt stand in thy lot at fhe end of the
days.' 11th. — African Institution at one; the report took about two hours
to read ; it is a very interesting one, but a gloss is given over contro
verted points. T. F. Forster and I got back to dinner at a quarter
before five ; a very large company at tea ; Joseph Fox brought a letter
from B. Shaw at Paris, stating that Bonaparte had received favourably
a deputation on the subject of schools in France, and that he was about
to publish a decree on the subject.
Fourth Month 11th— At meeting, on first day, I had some humbling
views of my own weaknesses, and a deep conviction that grace was not
sufficiently triumphant over the natural part in me. Lord, strengthen!
for I feel that of myself, I am poor, blind, naked, and miserable, and
cannot help myself.
Great subscription for the school society, — two thousand eight hun
dred and seventeen pounds.
24th. — Committee on African concerns all the morning."
In writing to Joseph T. Price, about this period, W. A. says —

168 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1815.
" I trust the formation of a little society for diffusing Christian senti
ments on the subject of war will not be lost sight of, and as thou hast
this subject so much at heart, I could wish that thou wouldst endeavour
to form a plan for such society, and point out the funds it might proba
bly want, as well as the manner in which it might be expected to pro
duce an effect."
" 25th. — The morning lectures at Guy's Hospital are now finished
for the season, as far as relates to me, but I have two more to give in
the evening.
21th. — London Institution; General Meeting ; every thing carried
with respect to the building.
Fifth Month 4th. — Committee on African concerns at eleven."
In mentioning their proceedings in a letter to Richard Reynolds,
W. A. says —
" The committee, which was held at my house, was most respectably
attended; Samuel Hoare, Sen., was in the chair; his son was also
present, together with Robert Barclay, (brewer,) G. and A. R. Barclay,
Lord Carrington, John Smith, M. P., the Forsters, (bankers,) T. F.
Buxton, &c, &c, &c. One of the first questions was, how far, accord
ing to the letter of the law, the parties could be considered ' Traders,'
as most of them felt delicately upon that point ; having, by their articles
of partnership, bound themselves from engaging in any other trade;
and Sir Samuel Romilly's opinion, in a letter addressed to me upon
the subject, having confirmed their doubts, they got over the difficulty
by prevailing on me to take the whole responsibility, and to permit all
the transactions to take place in my name ; I insisted, however, upon
having some one to join me, and named John Clarkson, who, thou
mayest recollect, was, for some time, governor of the colony ; this was
agreed to, and S. Hoare formed a minute, stating that the money was
actually given to us for certain purposes, without requiring an account.
This seemed to settle all their fears. Lord Carrington paid in fifty
pounds ; this, with the bounty of thyself and friends, with some other
subscriptions, makes our capital about five hundred pounds. The ac
count of the remittance from the Friendly Society stands open until we
dispose of the rice. I have applied to N. Vansittart to let us export it
free of duty, and he has been so kind as to put forward my memorial
at the Treasury, so that this will be done without doubt ; I have also
had a most interesting conversation with him on the whole affair, and
he wishes to see our correspondence, which I promised to send him
after two or three more letters from Africa are inserted. I spoke to
him upon the subject of giving facilities to the importation of African
produce ; this, with the exception of sugar, he readily agreed to do,
and before I came away gave orders that a memorandum should be
made for a bill to be brought into Parliament, without loss of time, to

1815. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 169
put Sierra Leone produce on a footing with all British Colonies with
respect to duties, which is not the case at present."
In reply to this letter, Richard Reynolds says —
" The expedient adopted to prevent the subscribers to our African
concern from being joint traders, or, in this instance, traders at all,
would have been equally satisfactory had they prevailed upon some
other suitable person to have taken upon himself the whole responsibility,
and to permit all the transactions to take place in his name ; I really
think thou hast already done, and hast engaged to do, more to serve
others than could reasonably be expected from any man."
On another occasion R. R. writes to W. A. —
"From conviction that thy important engagements are more nu
merous than should be imposed on any man, I am always reluctant to
apply to thee on occasions of minor interest, but I have received so
much satisfaction and information from my correspondence with thee,
that the neoessity of applying to any one else is not pleasant to me; I
shall therefore trespass on thy patience by inquiring concerning William
Simmons, the negro lad whom thou kindly introduced to the Borough
Road school from the African Institution."
The answer to this inquiry was, " W. Simmons, the negro lad, will,
I hope, be a treasure ; he has an excellent capacity ; I have given him
a free ticket for my lectures on Natural Philosophy."*
"Fifth Month 8th  Bonaparte has left Paris for Lisle, so that we
may expect to hear of bloody work.
9th  Hospital in the evening. Experimental Philosophy — Astro
nomy, No. 24. Lectures are now quite over for the season."
After noticing the marks of approbation shown by the audience,
W. A. says —
" I had peace in endeavouring to fix some religious impressions on
the minds of the pupils in parting. The treasurer expressed himself
much gratified."
It was William Allen's frequent practice in concluding the course of
lectures for the season, to offer some reflections on the subjects which
had engaged their attention, and on this occasion he says-^-
" Of the nature of these reflections you will probably judge variously,
but, be assured that they arise from the fullest conviction of their truth,
and not only of their truth, but of their unspeakable importance.
In the study of nature, every ingenious mind must be delighted with
the discovery of general laws which will satisfactorily explain many
important phenomena, but we also quickly discover that there are
limits to human knowledge, and that it is in vain for finite beings to
attempt to comprehend that which is infinite ; and we see that the
* In 1823 William Allen received very satisfactory accounts of the conduct and abilities
of this young man, who was then in the colony of Sierra Leone.

170 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1815.
wonderful effects which are taking place every moment, and upon
which the whole frame and system of things depend, can only be
referred to a great First Cause."
After alluding to the nature of matter, the laws to which it is subject,
and the attraction of different particles, W. A. says —
" But of the nature of attraction we are wholly ignorant, though it
seems very principally concerned in all the changes which are inces
santly taking place; even those powerful agents, caloric and the electric
fluid, appear to be in some measure connected with it.
It is by the attraction between caloric and water, that the latter
is raised by evaporation as an invisible fluid, which, by the operation
of electricity in the upper regions, condenses into clouds : the particles
of these clouds either unite and descend in rain, or are attracted by the
summits of hills and mountains, where they deposit their moisture,
which, percolating through their strata, breaks out into springs ; these,
by their union, form rivers, which, proceeding to the sea, supply the
waste from evaporation. Here we trace the operation of powerful
causes, while we remain ignorant of their nature, but every thing goes
on with such regularity and harmony, as to give a striking and con
vincing proof of a combining directing intelligence.
From the changes apparent in inert matter, the student is led to
consider organized bodies, with the addition of the living principle,
with the operation of that principle in the vegetable world, and in the
regular gradation of beings rising in various degrees from simple life
to sensation under all its modified circumstances, until it arrives at the
head of the creation, man ; who, distinguished by an immortal part
within him, is endowed with the faculty of reason, is capable of com
paring, of judging, and deciding, and is therefore accountable for all
his actions."
The importance of cultivating the talents and exercising the powers
for the noblest purposes is then shown, and after pointing out what
ought to be the object and end of natural science, and the disposition
with which it should be pursued, W. A. mentions the subjection of
the will produced by true religion, "which," he observes, "none but
those who possess it can duly appreciate."
William Allen had, for some time, been occasionally occupied in
preparing tables of the right ascension and declination of the stars from
the first to the fourth magnitude, with the places of some of the most
interesting double stars. They were arranged for his own amusement,
but as they seemed likely to prove useful to persons possessing a
circular or transit instrument, he was induced to publish them. In this
little work, entitled, "A Companion to the Transit Instrument," the
variations in right ascension and declination are given to the end of 1814.
His fondness for the study of astronomy rendered his observatory a

1815. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 171
great source of gratification to him, and there, at the close of many a
weary day, were his toils forgotten in the interests of this delightful
science. "Fifth Month 16th. — A very bad cold and hoarseness. African
Institution at one ; lasted till near five. D. M. Hamilton there, together
with two deputies, Samuel Thorp and Stephen Gabbidon, now arrived
from Sierra Leone : just had time to get a little dinner, and then had a
large meeting on the subject of the gangs of depredators from 9 to 12
years of age, who infest the metropolis ; they are estimated at from
600 to 700. Some of them have recently been capitally convicted at the
Old Bailey, and received sentence of death. Peter Bedford, and my
nephew, C. Hanbury, have visited the parents of many of these children,
and collected important facts. The meeting was very satisfactory, and
we resolved to establish a society : I was much exhausted and very
unwell. 20th. — Went to Suffolk street to* committee on captured slaves ;
James Stephen is a strong advocate for making them soldiers, which I
as strongly oppose.
22nd, — A little strengthened and comforted, and encouraged to look
towards that city which hath foundations.
23rd  Select Yearly Meeting at ten : dear E. Coggeshall and S.
Hustler gave an interesting account of their visit to the continent.
Fifth Month 25th. — Called on N. Vansittart, and was very kindly
received : he has introduced his act of parliament in favour of African
produce, and ordered a note to be given to me to see it. Committee
on captured slaves at half-past two : J. Stephen's report read, but no
thing decisive done.
21lh. — Prince Sanders, a well-informed black man from North
America, called. Preparing report about poor slaves in Antigua. Very
encouraging letters from Martin and Count Lasteyrie, about schools in
Paris. Sixth Month 2nd. — The Yearly Meeting closed in much solemnity
this evening, and I trust that I have derived a little spiritual strength
from it.
3rd. — Great annual meeting of the School Society ; Freemasons'
Hall completely filled ; the Duke of Sussex in the chair, supported by
Earl Darnley : the whole went off very well, except that I was pained
with the overstrained eulogium pronounced upon myself by Tracey.
The great subscription amounts to three thousand seven hundred and
eighty pounds.
8th. — Unexpectedly obliged to go up to Lord Sidmouth about a per
son condemned to death, in order to try and get him off.
Meeting of the society for youthful depredators at New London
Tavern: committees formed, &c."

172 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1815.
11th. — William Allen received a note from the Duke of Kent, dated
10th of June, in which he says —
" The Duke of Kent has just received his friend William Allen's let
ter, of this date, from which he learned with very sincere concern, the
indisposition of their mutual friend Fox, than whom, there does not
exist a more deserving and valuable member of society. The Duke
has heard, with real gratification, of his address and that of his bro
thers, on Monday last, to the company present at the anniversary
dinner of the British and Foreign School Society, having met with so
flattering a suffrage, for, as the sentiments expressed were those of the
heart, nothing can be so pleasing, as to be convinced that they are both
approved and appreciated.
The opinions given by William Allen, with respect ta the establish*
ment at the Borough Road, are altogether congenial with those enter
tained by the Duke of Kent on the same subject, and he firmly protests
against any check being put upon the Parent Establishment, whilst
there is still a continued demand for teachers. The idea of establishing
school associations appears to promise the best results, and the Duke
hopes, that William Allen will favour him with a very early communi
cation, whenever that, destined for the Borough of Southwark, is
established and set a-going ; as, immediately afterwards, it may be
right to arrange a public meeting, in order to follow up the same plan
throughout the metropolis, as an example to the whole of the United
Kingdom ; and if the Duke's services can be useful on that occasion,
he trusts that William Allen is well persuaded he may command them.
With respect to all William Allen says, in so friendly and affection
ate a manner, with regard to his own affairs, the Duke will only allow
himself to state, that he hopes he appreciates it as he ought."
" Sixth Month 12th.— Went with J. Reyner, T. F. Forster, and
Roberts, to Lord Sidmouth about Box's case, (mentioned on the 8th) ;
I hope it is in a good train.
Committee on juvenile depredators; settled rules, &c. ; a satisfactory
meeting. 21st. — Meeting, silent but not unprofitable. Mental prayer to be
enabled to offer acceptable worship.
22nd  Official accounts of a dreadful battle at Waterloo, near
Brussels : Bonaparte defeated by Wellington and Blucher. It is sup
posed on the whole that between forty and fifty thousand were slain."
23rd. — Stephen Grellet, after his return from the continent, having
requested, that some of the publications of the Society of Friends
might be presented to Professor Pictet, of Geneva, W. A. undertook
to forward them, and, in a letter to the Professor, mentioning by whose
desire they had been sent, W. A. says 
" There is also a small parcel for thy daughter, which be pleased to

1815. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 173
transmit to her: the account of her great care in the education of her
children interested me very much, as well as the statement of her ami
able disposition."
The case of books likewise contained a complete set of the school
reports, with an account of the plan, some papers relative to the man
agement of lunatic asylums, and the published numbers of the "Phi
lanthropist." In acknowledging the receipt of these acceptable presents,
Professor Pictet thus writes —
"Dear Sir,
« If I have delayed so long to answer your kind letter of the 7th of
February, it has been in the hope of noticing, at the same time, the
safe arrival of the case of books it announced, and which has reached
me but a few days ago, detained as it has been at Calais, by number
less formalities. At last, the capital treasure it contained has been
most thankfully received and explored, and it makes no small addition
to our stock of good and instructive books, all coming from your happy,
benevolent, and liberal country. I say our collection because I am
blessed with three daughters, all mothers, who make the education and
instruction of their children (eleven in all) the great affair of their lives.
They read English as French, and find, especially and almost exclu
sively in English works, auxiliaries
— ^^— < To rear the tender thought,
To teach the young idea how to shoot.'
The three families live in the same house, and almost in community,
a great comfort and real advantage for all, especially in the facility of
interchangiflg books, the use of which becomes thus much more exten
sive ; so that you are to receive the best thanks, not only of my eldest
daughter, but of her two sisters, a really good set of women, and not
unworthy of what you have done for them.
What I had heard of your schools, made me very desirous of parti
culars about these institutions, and you have furnished me with com
plete information on the subject ; I thank you for the account of the
lunatic asylum. My friend, Dr. De la Rive, will enrich our Bibliotheque
Britannique with an extract from it ; he has been very successful in
the treatment of that disease ; and any publication or fact concerning
it, is particularly interesting to him.
Your 'Philanthropist' contains some articles on that subject, which
have also been welcomed by him ; I thank you most sincerely for that
excellent work. I wonder how, in the bustle of an extensive business,
you can find time for keeping up such a regular literary undertaking,
which fully answers its title and aim.
I had the pleasure, this last winter, in a course of lectures upon na
tural philosophy and chemistry, to show and make use of the complete
collection of re-agents, you. had the goodness to favour me with, and

174 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1815.
by a most singular a propos, your kind letter reached me one hour before
my lecture; and I had the pleasure to announce to my numerous audi
ence, that you were still living and well-wishing to your friend.
I am glad to hear that you have fitted up an observatory near Lon
don ; I know, by long experience, the pleasure that study can procure ;
the place you mention cannot be far from Highbury, where my late
friend, A. Aubert, had a very complete observatory, in which I spent
many happy hours with him.
Adieu, dear sir ; I beg to be remembered to Mr. Howard and your
neighbour, the ingenious Mr. Pepys. We had among our visitors, last
year, the celebrated Sir H. Davy, who spent above two months with
us, to our great satisfaction. I had great pleasure in making the per
sonal acquaintance of Dr. Brewster ; of Mr. Hooker, the traveller in
Ireland ; Dr. Holland ; and many of your learned and interesting coun
trymen. Adieu encore. I am, for ever,
Your most sincere and obliged friend,
M. A. Pictet, Prof., F.R.S."
« Seventh Month 1st. — To Cold Bath Fields Prison, with the sub
committee ; saw about eighteen of the young thieves, and took down
their cases; I had a little comfort after my return from this visit; if
only a few of these poor children can be saved, it will be worth the
effort. 3rd. — I am sorry to find my conjecture respecting Sutherland's wife
confirmed — she died on her passage home from Sierra Leone ; after
having been on board ship eighteen weeks, in the voyage Out, she and
her husband, with a young woman who accompanied her, and the four
African lads, arrived in the colony, but the climate did not agree with
her, and the medical man said that the only chance for her life was in
returning to England ; her husband staid, and she and her female
friend took their passage in the Wilding ; but, when they had been
about ten days at sea, she was seized with a fever which carried her
off in a week.
Vansittart's bill for the encouragement of Sierra Leone produce, after
having passed the Commons, was rejected in the Lords.
Seventh Month 6th. — Much shocked with an account that "S. Whit
bread had put an end to his existence ; oh, what is man when left to
himself! how should we pray for preservation in the divine fear ! I was
particularly struck with his appearance the last time I saw him, which
was about a month ago, when he complained to me of a distressing
pain in his head."
William Allen was unwearied in his exertions to promote the welfare
of the settlers at Sierra Leone, and in his numerous interviews, on this
subject, with the Chancellor of the Exchequer, N. Vansittart, he was

1815. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 175
always kindly received. In a letter to Richard Reynolds, dated 9th
of Seventh Month, W. A. says 
"I have had a pretty long interview with Earl Bathurst, and laid the
state of the colony, as far as we are acquainted with it, fairly before him.
He quite agrees with us, that the minds of the settlers should be set
completely at rest with regard to the titles of their lands, and even pro
posed the manner in which it should be done.
I am much pleased with the two Maroons from Sierra Leone, Thorp
and Gabbidon ; they dine at my house almost every day, and are
modest, intelligent men. Gabbidon's case is a very hard one ; he was
deprived of a half-lot of land in the town, which cost him above two
hundred pounds, and which was sold for a debt of seven pounds,
though the money was tendered, and the debt not his own but his
uncle's ; they paid him over, however, one hundred and fifty of the
money for which it sold.
Our society for collecting information on the subject of the youthful
depredators who infest this metropolis, is proceeding vigorously. We
have a very large committee, which is sub-divided into small committees
for the different prisons ; they are furnished with heads of inquiry, printed
with blanks to be filled up ; these are brought into the general com
mittee, and serve as the foundation for the register, from which the
cases are posted into a very large ledger, with an alphabetical index.
Lord Sidmouth is much interested in the business, and wishes me to
bring the account of the cases to him when they are written up."
" Seventh Month, 10th. — The Allies have entered Paris, the city
having capitulated.
11th. — A large meeting at the New London Tavern on the estab
lishment of adult schools for London : the Lord Mayor, Birch, was in
the chair."
The subject of establishing a safe depository for the savings of the
labouring class, was amongst those benevolent plans which had long
claimed the attentive consideration of William Allen: he was very
desirous of receiving and acting upon such suggestions as were the
result of experience, and in a letter from that excellent and devoted friend
of humanity, Hannah Kilham, in which she mentions the great import
ance of such an arrangement, she says —
" The thing appears so obviously calculated for great usefulness, that,
like the Bible Society and the School Society, it will give cause of sur
prise that it has not been sooner entered upon.
Do not all who have observed with attention the habits of the poor,
know, that when quite destitute of property beyond what the wants of
the day call for, they are on the very verge of falling into embarrassment
and distress from getting into small occasional debts, that the habit of
getting into debt soon becomes familiar, and thus difficulties increase,

176 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1815.
and a state of enervating depression and dependence quickly follow ?
Do not multitudes of the public crimes which stain the annals of our
country, originate in minds from which an honourable sense of in
dependence has long since departed, and who were brought into the
disposition for committing fraud and violence, not at once, but by de
grees ? We can readily allow, without having recourse to any theory
but that of the Christian system, that favourable or unfavourable circum
stances, may, and will have a considerable influence on human conduct,
and what we have earnestly to desire is the prevalence of the Christian
principle in national legislators, to direct their councils in those measures
in which the welfare of numbers of their fellow creatures is concerned."
"Seventh Month 20th. — Committee on Lascars at Plough Court.
Called again at Vansittart's about Sierra Leone concerns. Called in at
the committee on Westminster Schools ; then to committee of manage
ment, London Institution.
22nd  Bonaparte has surrendered himself to Capt. Maitland, of the
Bellerophon : it will now become a question what to do with him ; some
say he will be sent to St. Helena."
W. A. says, in a letter to Richard Reynolds — •
"Our plans for spreading the British system of education in France,
were going on most prosperously before the invasion of that country by
the Allies : Martin, who has been trained at the Borough Road, was
appointed director of the first school in Paris, and measures were con
certing to carry the plan through the whole of France. I do not now
despair, though I fear that the system of priestcraft which Louis will
bring in his train, will operate strongly against us.
24th  Distressed about the poor creatures ordered for execution on
fourth and fifth-days : a barbarous system.
26th. — Anxious about Sierra Leone, and Thorp and Gabbidon's
business, but Thomas Christy has kindly taken much of this off me."
The prospect of a meeting to be held at Bristol, for the purpose of
forming an auxiliary to the British and Foreign School Society, decided
the course of William Allen's summer excursion. , In reference to this
subject he says— .
"Fox has made arrangements with Thomas Richardson, and Sir
James Mackintosh has engaged to attend the meeting ; it seems as if he
would drag me there with him, much as I dislike public exposure, for
I see that unless we exert ourselves strenuously the business will not
be done."
He accordingly left home with his family, for Bristol, the 28th of
Seventh Month, Joseph Fox also accompanying them : finding, on their
arrival, that Wilberforce was at J. S. Harford's, he and Joseph Fox
went over to invite him to attend the meeting ; they had nearly secured
his services, when, on retiring to consult his friends, the scale was

1815.. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 177
turned against them, and he excused himself from yielding to their
solicitations. Eighth Month 1st. — W. A. writes in his diary —
"Engaged in supplication, before I rose this morning, that the Lord
woUld strengthen and support us this day. Joseph Fox, Dr. Schwabe,
and I, had a conference about what ground we should take, and then
walked with a heavy heart to the Guildhall, where Edward Protheroe,
M. P. took the chair. The attendance was numerous and respectable,
and several excellent speeches were made. Mackintosh and Wilber
force had both failed us, but dear Fox and I endeavoured to put our
trust in the divine arm, and were mercifully and signally helped, as we
humbly hope. We were favoured to get through our part very satis
factorily -."the first Auxiliary Society was formed, and the cause triumphed.
The Almighty often accomplishes his purposes by feeble instruments.
May He alone be glorified !"
One of William Allen's correspondents, referring to an account of
this meeting, which he had seen iri the newspaper, says—
" You have your hand unremittingly at the plough, and whether you
are meeting with the support which you ought to receive, or struggling
without support, you never despair, nor think that one effort of yours
should for that reason be spared."
After leaving Bristol, Joseph Fox pursued his labours on behalf of
the school cause at Exeter, Plymouth, and some other places, and on
his return to London, thus writes to W. A. —
"It is a great work in which we are engaged, and few indeed are
those who feel its importance ; we must not discontinue to beseeCh the
Lord to raise us up friends and helpers."
Thus we see the secret spring of that zeal and benevolence which
so remarkably characterized Joseph Fox and William Allen ; they sought
for strength in prayer, in faith and hope they steadfastly pursued their
course ; and their labour was not in vain in the Lord.
Soon after this period W. A. received a letter from William Strutt
of Derby, in which he mentions his wish to contribute to the support
of that system of education which W. A. and his friends were endea
vouring to promulgate in the world, and adds —
"Inclosed is a bill for" one hundred pounds, and with it please to
accept my grateful acknowledgments, as an individual, for the benefits
you are conferring upon society at large."
William Allen and his family spent some weeks at Clifton, where
the varied kauties of the surrounding scenery often proved a pleasing
source of interest and enjoyment. The welfare of the great family of
man, however, was never lost sight of in the summer relaxation, and on
the 13th of Eighth Month, W. A. writes—
Vol. I. 12

178 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1815.
"After dinner, in company with Thomas Sanders and William Smith
of Bath, we went to Kingswood ; we called upon a respectable Metho
dist of the name of Budgett, who has a chapel near his house ; we found
it almost filled with children, the boys on one sideband the girls on the
other; it is a first-day school conducted by voluntary teachers; I think
there were about one hundred and twenty children present. We then
went to those noted haunts of depredators,, called Cock Road ; it does
not consist, as I had supposed, of continued streets, but of little huts or
hovels scattered over a considerable extent of country, and the paths
to them between hedges intersecting each other like a labyrinth ; fre
quently four or five of these paths meet, and hence pursuit is rendered
very difficult. The leader of the gang, Tom. Cain, is now in. gaol,
where he is to remain for eighteen months longer ; we saw his house,
which is a regular depository for stolen goods — it is said that as many
as thirteen carts have come there in a night. In the midst of this nest
a good school-house is erected for a first-day school, with an excellent
room sixty feet by forty, capable of containing two hundred and eighty
children ; it is- said that even Tom Cain subscribed to it. It is truly a
pity that there is not some exertion made to have a day school. In this
place also are schools for adults, and we were much pleased in seeing
one or two of them. The teachers voluntarily attend at all seasons and
in all weathers, many of them from Bristol ; I believe they are princi
pally Methodists ; their pious zeal does them great credit. We returned
to town in time for the evening meeting at six o'clock."
William Allen was much pleased with some of the public institutions
at Bristol, but the gaol he describes as " the most shocking prison he
had yet seen ;" he adds, " I understand Neild has given a full. account
of it." In an excursion to Cheddar Cliffs and Cross, he visited the
boarding school at Sidcot for the children of Friends, with the state of
which he says he was much gratified. There were thirty-nine boys and
thirty-nine girls, and he observes —
"Robert and Lydia Gregory superintend it gratuitously, and seem
remarkably well qualified for the work. I was particularly delighted,
not only with the system of order and neatness which pervades the
whole, but especially with that part of the plan which initiates the chil
dren into habits'of industry ; most of the household work is done by them,
only one servant being kept. The girls assist in the kitchen and in
washing, ironing, waiting at dinner, cleaning rooms, &c. The boys
also have their distinct duties as waiters, sweepers of the school and
bed rooms, furniture rubbers, &c. In one of the rooms the following
card was hung up :
' It is requested that the following instructions be particularly observed
by the children : —
To do every thing in its proper time ; to keep every thing to its

1815. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 179
proper use ; and to put every thing in its proper place ; also that each
fire may consume its own cinders.'
The superintendent has a workshop, which, besides a turning lathe
and carpenter's tools, contains also a forge. With the assistance of the
boys, he completely built a shed and tiled it. The boys are also em
ployed in the garden and on the land — in fact, I was strongly reminded
of Fellenberg's system."
W. A. and some of his party visited Chepstow, from whence they
went up the Wye in a boat, to see the ruins of Tintern Abbey. He
says —
" The banks of the river are charming, being clothed with wood,
and in some places rising from four to five hundred feet. The perpen
dicular masses of limestone have a grand appearance; there are twelve
pretty near together on the Piercefield side from seventy to one hun
dred feet high, which are called the Twelve Apostles, and on one of
them is a projection called St. Peter's Thumb. The contrast of rocks
and verdure is truly beautiful. The ruins are situated near the river,
and are surrounded with hills. The abbey is the most beautiful speci
men of gothic architecture I have ever seen. On opening the door we
were agreeably surprised to see J. J. Lister, Robert Brown of Ciren
cester, &c. The weather was delightful; we returned to Chepstow in
our boat and got back before dusk, after a very gratifying excursion.
Ninth Month 1st. — After breakfast we visited the beautiful grounds
of Piercefield, formerly belonging to the father of the amiable and
accomplished Elizabeth Smith. The remembrance of her virtues and
early death threw a kind of pleasing melancholy over the scene. The
prospects are delightful, beyond any thing of the kind I had ever seen,
— the walks among shady trees by the side of the Wye, pretty uni
formly ascend ; beneath us the river in all its sinuosities, forming some
thing like a figure ofeight. In the early part of the walk, the town of
Chepstow, with its spacious castle rising abruptly from the side of the
river, attracts the attention. As you proceed, the rocks and woods,
intermingled, claim their portion of admiration, and rising higher, we
see far beyond them to the Severn and the sea. The highest ground
is about a mile beyond the premises. It is called Wind Cliff, and its
elevation from the high-water mark, at Chepstow Bridge, is about four
hundred and twenty-eight feet. From the summit of this hill there is
a most charming and extensive view. On returning to the inn, about
nine of us sat down to dinner, after which we proceeded to New Pas
sage, and had a fine sail over the Severn. We had a pleasant ride
to Clifton, which we reached just as it was dark."
In returning home from Clifton, W. A. visited the large prison at
Devizes, which he says —
" Is upon a pridigious scale. I should think it would cost from fifty

180 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1815.
thousand to one hundred thousand pounds ; the expense is to be paid
by the county. I could not help reflecting upon the wretched policy
which squanders millions in punishing crime, but refuses to grant any
thing towards preventing it. Lord Liverpool could not feel himself at
liberty to advise the Prince Regent to grant ten thousand pounds to.
strike at the root of the evil."
In a letter written soon after his arrival in London, W. Allen says —
" We have just received fresh accounts of the success of the school
plans at Paris. Martin has the zeal of an apostle, and in the late very
critical times has been favoured to conduct the business with great
prudence and judgment. His school is daily visited by great numbers,
who express themselves delighted with the system. It has claimed the
notice of the royal family, and has the patronage of government. Mar
tin has fully succeeded in making the Bible a part of the school instruc
tion, but not before he had encountered strong opposition. A person,
left by the Emperor of Russia at Paris, to report upon useful institutions,
has visited this school, and^was so struck with it that he has sent two
Russians there to learn the plan in order that they may be able to form
schools in Russia. Frossard and young Schlatter whom we sent over
last, are also highly useful. By the end of this month, we expect-that
five schools will be established at Paris. T. Clarkson is there, and I
hope to have many important details on his return.
The Baptist Missionary Society are about to send out James Penny,
one of our best masters, to India, in order to disseminate the plan there.
Our invested subscription is now about four thousand three hundred
pounds, and we still entertain strong hopes that the sum may be made
up by the end of next year, but it will require the strenuous exertions
of all our friends. v
John Norton, the Mohawk chief, with his wife and son, dined with
me to-day, also the Abbe Gaultier, who is one of the commissioners of
the schools at Paris ; he is a very interesting man and quite alive to the
business." Several persons interested in the welfare of Africa had long been of
opinion that considerable advantage would arise to the settlers at Sierra
Leone, if Captain Paul Cuffee's services could be engaged on their be
half; with a view to secure this important object, and to facilitate the
conveyance of African produce to this country, it was thought advi
sable, if a license could be obtained from government, to purchase a
vessel, of which he might be made the proprietor ; but, although Ministers
were exceedingly kind, and very desirous of promoting the welfare of
the colony, yet, from the nature of the navigation act, they could n°t
protect the parties concerned from incurring a certain risk. W. Wilber
force, in writing to William Allen on this subject, says —
" It puzzles me: — I confess that I estimate very highly the benefits

1815. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 181
to be derived from Paul Cuffee's settling in Sierra Leone, but if, as I
partly infer from Lord Bathurst's letter, the whole danger arises from
Cuffee's ship, not enjoying, from the mere order of government, the
same full security which would be derived from a clause in an act of
parliament, it deserves consideration, whether it is worth while, for the
sake of bringing him a few months sooner, to incur the risk.
As I understand you are now returned to London, perhaps it would
be as well for you to call on the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and you
would be better able to ascertain the nature of the risk.
I cannot lay down my pen without assuring you that, from various
causes, among which, giving pain to two persons whom I respect and
value was one, our last interview at Frenchay* was long a subject of
deep concern to me. Mr. Fox would probably tell you that we crossed
each other on Clifton Down, and it was because I felt so much that
I did not stop to hold a parley."
In replying to this letter, W. A. says — :
" I called upon the Chancellor of the Exchequer, according to the
suggestion in thy letter, and had much conversation with him on the
subject of Paul Cuffee. He told me he had conversed with Earl Ba-
thurst on the business, and it appeared that government was quite
disposed to do all in their power to forward our views ; they would imme
diately give us the license if we concluded to incur a certain risk, from
which they were not sure they could effectually secure us — if, for in
stance, the seizing officer considered the booty of more value than his
place. On the whole, it appeared to us that we could not ask P. Cuffee
to run the risk, nor could we advise the African Institution to do it."
In noting this visit in his diary, after stating the above particulars,
W. A. adds—
"Spoke also about grants of land, and Vansittart sent for Gordon, the
principal clerk in Lord Bathurst's office, and requested him to put the
subject into the next dispatch to Colonel Macarthy ; it is agreed that this
shall be done — a good day's work.
Ninth Month 25th. — Committee on juvenile depredators. The Abbe
Gaultierwas present, B. Montague, T. F. Forster, &c. We agreed to
hire a person, with a weekly salary, to investigate cases.
Tenth Month 2d. — Received a message from the Emperor of Russia,
that if we trained some Russians as schoolmasters on the British sys
tem, he would find schools for them in his dominions."
The message here alluded to, was conveyed in the following letter
from Henry Cockfield, dated Upton, 30th inst :
" Dear Friend,
"I am just returned from the continent, and parted with our friend
Thomas Clarkson on fifth-day afternoon, at Calais, where he had arrived
* See page 176.

182 life and correspondence 1815.
from Paris, and wished me to inform thee of his welfare, and. that his
interview with the Emperor of Russia at Aix la Chapelle had been very
satisfactory. He inquired particularly after his ' good friends the
Quakers,' and personally after John .Wilkinson, William Allen, and
Stephen Grellet, the interview with whom, he said, had made a lasting
impression on his mind. After T. C. had said what he wished on the
subject of the Slave Trade, he took the opportunity of speaking on that
of the education of the poor, and having named the modern improve
ments, and dwelt on the services rendered to the cause by W. A., the
Emperor told him that any young Russians, who might be trained as
schoolmasters on the British system, he should be glad to introduce into
schools in his dominions, and would take care that openings were made
to receive them. He said, that though the plan of education in Russia
had not been advanced to that state of maturity, which it had so nearly
reached in England, the instruction of the lower orders was by no means
neglected, and that very good schools now existed in that country. He
expressed himself quite desirous of doing what he could to assist in the
abolition of the Slave Trade generally, and invited T. C. to write to
him if he had any thing to communicate to him on the subject. He
again mentioned the Quakers, and asked T. C. if he thought so highly
of their sentiments as he appeared to do, why he did not unite himself
to them, and said, that in the main principles of religion, he was of their
sentiments. He requested to be affectionately remembered to thyself
and the other two friends."
" Tenth Month 9th. — We took tea with my brother Joseph, and
attended the public meeting, at their new school-honse at Kingsland ;
Fox was there, and it was, on the whole, a very gratifying time.
12th — Dinner — the Abbe Gaultier, Robert Stephens, and Charles,
Dudley. Consultation about poor's banks.
23rd. — A letter from Paul Cuffee. Juvenile depredators' committee.
24th. — L. Howard took me in his carriage to N. Vansittart, settled with
him about P. Cuffee, and got an introduction to Gordon, in Lord
Bathurst's office. — Sub-committee on school concern, — J. Fox and C.
Dudley, — arranging for great meeting.
26th. — Eleven o'clock, Bible Meeting of the City of London, Aux
iliary held at the Mansion House ; the Lord Mayor in the chair, sup
ported by N. Vansittart ; I made a short speech. A person of colour
from Goree dined with me, and Captain Coleby.
Tenth Month 30th. — Various business in the counting-house ; pre
paring, at the request of the editor of a newspaper, an account of what
I said at the Mansion House. Preparing for No. 1, lecture, experimental
philosophy. Committee on juvenile depredators, large and satisfactory.
Much depressed from various causes. I am uneasy about Lanark,
and have written a long letter to R. Owen."

1815. OE. WILLIAM ALLEN. 183
In this letter, which was begun on the 20th of Tenth Month, Wil
liam Allen says —
« My dear Friend,
" Thy kind letter of the 10th served to increase the desire I had felt
to write to thee ; but the depression of spirits I have long and increas
ingly suffered, on account of my connexion with an establishment
which, atone time, presented the most animating prospects of extensive
good to mankind, has rendered it very difficult to me to correspond
upon the subject. I felt, and still feel, the most sincere attachment to
my friend, Robert Owen, on account of the kindness of his disposition,
and the benevolence and strong good sense which mark his general
plans for the amelioration of the condition of the labouring classes of
society. I fondly hoped, that one establishment might be found in
which it should be proved that it was possible to provide for the com
fort, for the morals, and the happiness of a poor population, without
injury to the pecuniary interests of the employers ; and that New Lanark
might be held up as an example to the world. What pleasure did I
not anticipate in giving my humble co-operation to such a work! and
with what zeal did I endeavour to bring others to assist, who may now
consider me as having been made a dupe to designs which my heart
could never approve. It is now the general opinion, that my friend is
the determined enemy of all revealed religion, and that he is anxious
for nothing so much as to prove, in the instance of such an establish
ment as Lanark, that the world has been grossly abused, down to the
present time, in being required to believe that the Divine Being had,
at any time, through the .influence of his Holy Spirit, communicated
his will and purposes to any of his rational creatures, — that the Scrip
tures were mere idle tales, and one of the causes of the miseries which
exist in the world. Now, if this opinion of the public be correct, we
have, indeed, reason for bitter complaint. We came into the concern,
not to form a manufactory of infidels, but to support a benevolent
character in plans of a very different nature, in which the happiness of
millions, and the cause of morality and virtue are deeply concerned.
I have indeed to complain, that after all the preliminary arrange
ments were made, and we had committed ourselves in an honourable
understanding, attempts were subsequently made to change the whole
basis ; confidence began to be shaken, and instead of being able to
procure extended pecuniary assistance from fresh quarters, I know that
one person, who has embarked more property in the concern than any
of the rest, except thyself, is holding back through alarm ; and indeed,
I feel assured that the divine ble.ssing cannot be expected upon a con
cern which is to be made the instrument of attacking revealed religion.
It is not because mankind have been degraded and made miserable by
systems which have been called religion, that therefore no such thing

184 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1815.
exists as revelation ; and the contradictions, which some fancy they
perceive in the Scriptures, arise from their not being understood. If 'a
man will believe nothing which cannot be mathematically demonstrated
to him, — nothing which is beyond the reach of his limited capacities
and powers, he must remain in darkness, so long as it is impossible for
finite to comprehend Infinite : and with respect to the operation of real
religion in the world, I wilL take my own sect for an example, because
none more strongly evince their belief in the divine origin of the Holy
Scriptures, and the immediate communication of the Supreme Being
with the soul of man, than we do ; and what is the conduct of the con
sistent members of our Society ? They hold it a duty to abstain from
persecuting any man for a difference of opinion, — they hold that, as
God is love, he wills the happiness of all his creatures, and that there
fore it is their duty to love and do good to all mankind ; hence they
abstain from taking any part in war ; they think that truth and sincerity
are essentials of Christianity, ahd therefore, and because their great
Master has enjoined it, they abstain from oaths. Mark the whole lives
of these men, influenced by the firmest belief in revelation, and then
say whether the miseries of mankind are at all referable to such a
source. I could give numerous instances of individuals, not members
of our Religious Society, who have been guided by revelation, and
who have been models of philanthropy and virtue. So much for the
effects of that religion which infidels hold in contempt, merely because
they do not, and in their disposition they cannot, understand it. The
lives of true Christians, whatever particular denomination they might
bear, have always been uniformly the same, — they have been marked
by love to God and good-will to men ; they have been assisted by a
strength beyond that of their natural faculties, which, however exalted
and improved, cannot, of themselves, produce steady and uniform
virtue. The main points in which we all agree are these : —
To make the work-people as comfortable as possible in their temporal
concerns, by economic and judicious arrangements.
To remove, as far as possible, from them temptations to vice and
immorality. To provide a savings' bank, for their relief in sickness and support
in old age.
To provide education for the whole of their children, and to form in
them habits of morality and virtue.
To encourage all in following that system of religion which their
consciences approve.
These were the objects which brought us into the concern, but
though nearly two years have since elapsed, we have not specific and
satisfactory information as to the progress made in many of them, and

1815. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 185
are very much at a loss to reply to the queries put to us by those who
have heard of what was intended to be done at Lanark. The eyes of
the public are upon us, many for evil and some for good ; we wished
to have some particulars respecting the population and the progress
made in realizing the above objects, but have only received a list of the
members. I will now take leave of this painful subject, and proceed to give
thee a little account of what we are doing here.
Our school concern is making rapid progress, both at home and
abroad. Martin is going on admirably at Paris, where five schools
upon our plan are now opened. Two Russians have been trained by
him, and are gone into their own country to establish schools there. We
have an urgent application from Senegal for a master, and, notwith
standing the difficulties we have had to encounter, in consequence of
the unsteady conduct of the first master whom we sent to Sierra Leone,
we have a pretty good prospect of fixing the plan there.
The schools upon our system in Calcutta are in a flourishing state,
and the gentlemen who have done so much good in the Baptist mission,
have engaged one of our best masters, who is now setting off for India,
to establish the plan in all the parts to which this mission extends. I
have just received a letter from New York, which states that they are
about to erect a third school-house in that city, that the plan is flourish
ing there, and that they have a separate school for three hundred children
of colour. We intend, in the course of a month or two, to start our
new plan of school associations, by which means we hope to provide
for the education of every poor child not already in some school, and
also to interest the poor themselves in the work. I dined with the
Chancellor of the Exchequer, about three weeks ago, at his house in
Downing Street. A gentleman was present who has been very active
in the Bible Society, and who was endeavouring to interest the Chan
cellor in a plan for establishing savings' banks for the poor universally,
pretty much upon the plan of that at Edinburgh, a luminous account of
which is given in the last Edinburgh Review, which ought tohe read
by all those who take any interest in the concerns of the poor. I told
them that we intended to connect this object with our school associa
tions ; but they convinced me that we had better, in the first instance,
keep them separate. These plans are to be acted upon as soon as
possible. The above gentleman has since met Charles Dudley and me
upon the subject, and we only wait until the town fills to begin both
this and the school association in Southwark, where we expect to de
rive much support from the members of the Bible associations, who
have an admirably organized plan. If we succeed here, the thing will
spread rapidly through populous and manufacturing districts.
My friend Joseph Fox has been overworked, but having retreated

186 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1815.
to his cottage at Penn for a week or two, is much recruited. Our in
vested subscription is now rather more than four thousand three hun
dred pounds, but we have some hopes of raising it to five thousand by
the time of the general meeting, which is to be held in about three
weelcs. We are going to petition the city for a piece of ground on
which to build more commodious school rooms, &c, for the Borough
Road establishment.
I have had conferences with Ministers on the subject of Sierra Leone,
and have obtained important results in the encouragement they are not
only disposed, but are taking measures to give, in promoting the culti
vation of cotton.
I must confess that I have written this letter under much depression
of mind, principally from the cause expressed in the beginning of it,
and also from considering how deeply I am implicated in responsibility
for this concern. Do write to me, not in vague terms, but definitely
as to thy views and prospects, that I may fully make up my mind as to
my future proceeding, and whatever I may ultimately determine upon,
I hope I shall always be able to subscribe myself
Thy affectionate Friend,
William Allen." ¦
" Tenth Month 31st. — Hospital lecture, No. 1 ; crowded audience."
In this lecture, which was introductory to a course of natural and
experimental philosophy, W. A. says —
" We shall begin by stating those dispositions of mind which are
most favourable to the investigation of truth ; we shall describe the
manner in which the study of science may be most successfully pursued,
and the object and nature of our present inquiries."
After proceeding with these subjects a little, he says —
" And what can give the mind a firmer support, than the conviction
that we are under the notice and protection of the greatest of Beings —
the Author of all that we admire in the beautiful — of all that interests
us in the sublime.
All the objects of nature which surround us bear the stamp and im
pression of Deity ; the material world, grand as it is in design, and in
imitable in execution, is lost in the contemplation of that stupendous
exertion of Omnipotence, the creation of mind — of beings capable of
iknowing, loving, and adoring their Creator, and who, having passed
through the various stages of this probationary state, may enjoy the
smiles of his countenance for ever. This is the high destiny of man,
and will assuredly be his happy experience, if his own perverse dis
position and voluntary rebellion frustrate not the glorious design."
The sources of enjoyment afforded'-by the study of nature are forcibly
pointed out, and, in reference to its ennobling effect upon the character
of those who possess well-regulated minds, he says —

1815. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 187
" Such view, with delight, the footsteps of the Deity among his mag
nificent works ; they even derive instruction and pleasure from the most
common circumstances in nature.
' Springs not a flow'ret on the enamelled vale,
Shines not a pebble where the riv'let strays,
Sports not an insect on the spicy gale,
But claims their wonder, and excites their praise.
For them e'en vernal nature seems more gay,
For them more lovely hues the fields adorn, -
To them more fair, the fairest smile of day,
To them more sweet, the sweetest breath of morn.'
The murmuring brook, the rushing torrent, the craggy rock, and
even the varying forms of the clouds, are to them subjects of pleasing
contemplation. Next to the sacred and indispensable duties of religion, and those
duties which, in the social state, man owes to man, the cultivation of
the mind is an objected the greatest importance. The dispositions
most favourable to the acquisition of science are, a sincere love of truth,
patience in research, and a readiness to give up any opinion which can
be proved to be erroneous, while, at the same time, we adhere firmly
and steadily to what we have every reason to believe is true. We
should not only avoid the storm and tumult of the passions, but also
that trifling and desultory state of mind which is fluttering from one
object to another, and dwelling only upon the surface of things. A
habit of fixing the attention exclusively to the subject before us, is of
immense importance, as, without it, our knowledge will be superficial
and comparatively useless. To understand a suhject thoroughly, we
must know it thoroughly, and this knowledge can only be acquired by
accurate observation ; for in vain shall we exercise the faculty of com
paring and judging, if we have not been previously careful to obtain
correct data."
"Eleventh Month 1st. — Called upon Count Lieven at Harley Street,
Cavendish Square, and" had a most interesting conversation with him on
the subject of schools in Russia. I am to address a letter to him which
he may send to the Emperor. Called on Gordon at Earl Bathurst's
officefbut he was out of town.
4th.-*~To the City of London Tavern, to meet the managers of the
London Institution. Went in the procession to Moorfields, to" see the
first stone laid by Birch, the Lord Mayor, who made a very good speech
on the occasion.
1th. — Omitted lecture, to attend the funeral of Dr. Lettson, at Bun-
hill Fields, — very few Friends present.
9th — Hospital lecture, No. 4, then went to the Borough Road school,
to see the black lads, &c. Capital punishment society ; went afterwards
to the Royal Society, — first meeting this season. I saw Davy, who

188 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1815.
showed me his lamp for mines ; heard his paper read on fire-damp ; it
appears to contain no olefiant gas; not exploded by red hot charcoal or
iron ; like mixture of olefiant gas, explodes with one part fire-damp and
thirteen atmospheric air.
10th. — School Committee, at Paul's Head, — not over till past three.
Committee on juvenile depredators.
Some spiritual consolation in the night.
16th  To Vaughan's, Mincing Lane ; met T. F. Forster there about
tracts for North American Indians.
23rd. — To the council of the Royal Society, then to the new London
Tavern to meet the New England corporation for civilizing Indians in
North America; I was this day elected a member.
Eleventh Month 24th. — Sent off my letter to Count Lieven about
schools." In addressing Count Lieven on the subject, W. A. says" —
" Count Lieven,
" Esteemed Friend,
"The vast importance of educating the children of the poorest classes
of the people, has so deeply impressed my mind, that I consider it my
duty, as long as I live, to do all in my power to promote it, — not only
in my own country, but in every other. In England, it is only within
these few years that the public have been convinced, that the crime and
misery, which abound among our poor, are chiefly to be ascribed to the
neglect of their education ; and now, notwithstanding all that has been
done, it appears, by inquiry, that in Great Britain alone, exclusive of
her colonies, some hundreds of thousands of the poor are growing up
to the state of men and women without any education at all, and are
liable to become an easy prey to temptation and vice. To this cause
we may, in a great measure, attribute the crowded state of our prisons,
and the prevalence of crime among the lower orders. The gradual
progress of the efforts of the British and Foreign School Society, and
other societies with a similar object, are, however, proceeding towards
remedying the evil. But the opposition encountered from those who
have never considered this subject in its true point of view — more
especially from those who are bigoted to some particular system of
religion, and would prefer, that the poor should remain ignorant, unless
they could, at the same time, be educated in their particular creed,
renders the labour of the real friends to their country, and to mankind,
much greater than it ought to be. If our government were but to act
upon this grand principle — that as long as individuals proved them
selves good subjects of the state, and were zealously disposed to pro
mote obedience to the ruling authorities in all civil concerns, and the
comfort and happiness of their . fellow-citizens, they should be en
couraged in their endeavour to promote works of public utility, par-

1815. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 189
ticularly in the general education of the poor, — England would, I doubt
not, in the course of a very few years, exhibit to the nations a pattern
of morality and virtue : the united energies of all good men would
be directed to one point, and with an irresistible effort. But, unfortu
nately, in this country it is thought of more importance to support one
particular establishment of religion, than to attend to the most effica
cious-plans for producing habits of morality and virtue in the great mass
of the people, which, in all countries, is made up of the labouring class.
Thus is England situated ; and here this great work must principally
be carried on, by private individuals, with littie or no assistance from
the government. But in Russia these impediments do not exist, and
her present enlightened Emperor has it in his power to set the world
an example, which must produce the most striking effect.
As the origin and progress of the British and Foreign School Society
is not yet completely known, notwithstanding the fruits of its labours
are now very conspicuous, I shall say a few words on that subject."
A sketch of the commencement of this great work,, of the early
labours of its friends, and the comprehensive principles upon which it
was founded, having been already given in these pages,- we pass on to
the period when the institution was called the British and Foreign
School Society.
" Since this measure has been adopted," W. A. continues, "it has
flourished exceedingly ; the committee has been enlarged, and a great
number of masters and mistresses have been trained and qualified to
conduct schools in England, Scotland, and different parts of the world.
Four or five schools have been recently opened at Paris, the principal
master having been qualified at our institution. The model school
is kept in the Rue St. Jean de Beauvois, by F. Martin, an excellent
young man, a Frenchman, who' was with us for six months. The
French Government has patronized the undertaking, and put it under
the care of the prefect of the Seine, who, by a decree which I have
just seen, announces his intention of establishing twelve schools upon
the plan, in the arrondissement of Paris, so that there is every prospect
of their being generally diffused through France. They are firmly
established in North America : there is a very large school for the half-
cast natives of Hindostan at Calcutta, and we are now training several
black lads for Africa
Having given a sketch of the origin and progress, I shall now state
the peculiar advantages of this system : —
First, — It inculcates and fixes in the minds of children, habits of
attention, cleanliness, morality, and a sense of religion.
Second, — Its cheapness, and the facility with which instruction is
conveyed, — one master, and one set of lessons sufficing for a school of
four or five hundred, or even a thousand children.

190 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1815.
Third, — As in our schools, the Holy Scriptures are the constant read
ing lessons, and no catechism peculiar to any sect is admitted; we
receive the children of all the poor, without any exclusion of sect or
party, and enjoin them to attend the place of worship to which their
parents belong ; thus we secure the co-operation of the benevolent of
all denominations in this good work.
When we contemplate the amazing power of such an instrument, as
this, we must see that its peculiar field of operation would be in large
and populous districts, where the poor are numerous ; and that it may,
with the divine blessing, do more toward diminishing crime and
misery, than could be effected with any penal laws ; and I cannot but
hope, that when thy illustrious and enlightened master, the Emperor of
Russia, shall have time to consider the nature of the thing,, and its
bearings upon the happiness of millions, his benevolent mind will be
disposed to give it a trial in his dominions. I know with what paternal
tenderness he feels for the best interests of his people, and of mankind
at large, and I am not ignorant of the provision for the education of his
subjects which he has already made, in the establishment of numerous
universities and seminaries, for the superior and middle ranks ; and it
appears to me, that nothing is wanting to complete his noble work,
but the adoption of a plan, which shall provide instruction at a cheap
rate, for the very poorest of the people ; and should the Emperor.be
disposed to patronize the plan, I would beg leave to submit the follow
ing propositions : —
First, — That three or four Russians, from eighteen to twenty-five
years of age, of good capacities, and who could speak a little English,
should be sent over to England, and placed under the care of our com
mittee, in order to be taught the system; which would, perhaps, occupy
from six to eight months, and I would take care that they were pro
perly attended to. If they were unacquainted with English, a longer
time would of course be necessary.
Second, — Each of the masters thus trained, on his return to Russia,
might be able to take charge of a school for four or five hundred chil
dren. One of the most competent of the masters might be selected to
conduct a model school at Petersburg, where persons might also be
trained to act as masters, and, when qualified, might be sent to take
charge of schools in the different populous districts throughout the
Empire. And if the Emperor thought- proper to establish a com
mittee or board of education in his Capital, the whole might be easily
effected,. Third, — Schools on this plan require a peculiar kind of tabular les
son ; these might be printed under the superintendence of the board,
and a depository for them, and for all school apparatus, as slates, pen
cils, &c, might be provided for the supply of all schools, on the plan.

1815. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 191
Fourth, — Our committee would engage to send a person or persons
to Petersburg to assist the Russian masters in organizing the first
schools, and would contribute in every way, to the utmost of their
power, to give full effect to the wishes of the Emperor.
I have now, my dear friend, discharged what has appeared to me a
duty, and must leave the event to a gracious Providence, who I be
lieve has blessed the work, and designs it for one of the means of pre
paring the way towards a greater diffusion of religious knowledge among
the lower orders of society than has hitherto taken place.
With sentiments of great regard and esteem,
I remain, thine respectfully,
William Allen."
This letter was accompanied with a note, requesting Count Lieven
to be present at an examination at the School, on the 25th ; he readily
acceded to the proposition, and on the 25th W. A. writes —
"Hospital lecture, No. 11; then hurried to the Borough Road to
meet the Duke of Kent, who soon arrived with the Duke of Orleans,
and Count Lieven came shortly afterwards ; we had a truly grand and
gratifying review ; the plan was thoroughly explained to them by John
Pickton, and every thing went off as we could have wished ; all seemed
much pleased, and the Ambassador warmly thanked me for the pleasure
he had experienced. We then went to the great meeting at the Free
masons' Tavern, which was held afterwards ; the large room was
crowded, gallery and all ; we had, previously, taken considerable pains
in choosing the speakers, and making the arrangements, and I think
we never had so good a meeting. The Duke of Orleans was highly
gratified, and gave me ten pounds with his own hands. The Duke of
Bedford was in the chair, and Brougham was there and spoke. Six
persons, destined for missionaries to Ceylon, are now at the Borough
Road, learning the plan."
A letter from the Abbe Gaultier, after his return to Paris, states that
they are obliged to be very active, in order to promote the success of
the schools there, which he says —
" Like all good things, meet with much opposition. You will see,
by the official papers forwarded to Mr. Fox, that things are now in a
good train ; we are getting forward, and in a short time we shall have
seven large schools in Paris, under the protection and direction of
government. We shall not be satisfied until the day when we shall
see you in the midst of us, and can show you the produce of that seed,
so nobly and generously furnished by the founders of this institution."
Soon after this period, W. A. writes —
" We have still encouraging accounts from Paris, but in the last
number of the Christian Observer there is an insidious paragraph, calcu
lated to stir up a host of enemies against Martin in his own country.

192 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1815.
Whilst he is earnestly entreating that we should never mention in print
that he is a protestant, the Christian Observer says, « It is not to be
wondered at if the French are uneasy at seeing a protestant clergyman
at the head of their schools. What should we think,' it continues, 'if
a catholic clergyman was at the head of our national school ?' "
In a letter to Richard Reynolds, dated 26th of Eleventh month, W.
A. writes —
" Since my last, dated 24th of Ninth Month, a very interesting
young man, the son of a clergyman in Oxfordshire, called at Plough
Court, and informed me that he was appointed surveyor for Sierra Leone:
thou mayest recollect that we had often solicited Government to send
out such a person, in order that the allotment of lands might be made
— his name is T. S. Buckle. He has repeatedly dined with me ; we
have had much conversation on the subject of Sierra Leone, and he
seems quite to unite with our views regarding the colony. I have seen
N. Vansittart more than once on the occasion, requesting him to speak
to Earl Bathurst for a free passage for the young man and his apparatus,
furniture, &c. ; Vansittart thinks that this will readily be granted, but
when I proposed in the sub-committee of the African Institution, that
we should mention it when we waited on Earl Bathurst, JVIacaulay ob
jected to it on the ground that if it were granted to him, others would
expect it. Buckle also wished very much to receive some instructions
from Earl Bathurst, but Macaulay said this was perfectly unnecessary,
as he must receive his orders from the Governor. Now, although this
is true as to positive orders, yet I conceive that there would have been
a use in the young man's being possessed of the views and dispositions
of government in case of the death or removal of the Governor. I ad
vised him to write to Earl B., requesting an audience, which he. did,
and on the same day a time was appointed. He has just been with me,
and is much pleased with the interview. Earl B. told him his applica
tion for a free passage was perfectly reasonable, and granted his request
with the greatest readiness.
J. Atkinson, of Darlington, sent me, some time ago, a little pamphlet,
which Joseph Lancaster printed at Edinburgh, entitled, 'A Narrative,
&c.,' full of the grossest misrepresentations and personal abuse of Fox
and me, by name.' It would be quite easy, by a plain statement of
facts, to put him down completely, but the enemy would triumph in
his exposure, and we are strongly advised to forbear. I send the
paper for thy perusal, and should be glad of thy opinion upon it."
Richard Reynolds appeared, in great measure, to coincide in this
view of the case. In writing to William Allen, after the circulation of
the pamphlet, Joseph Fox says —
"If we have been permitted to have our faith and patience tried in
various ways, during the progress of the great work in which we have

•\

1815. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 193
been engaged, we cannot say our labour has been in vain; let us
cheer each other, — we shall reap if we faint not. In the whole of
the struggle,, my mind has been supported by a consciousness of the
close fellowship of heart which was ever to be found in you, and I
hope, that so long as we are spared, in this present sphere of action, we
shall be like Jonathan and David."
Soon after the receipt of this letter, William Allen mentions_haying a
long conference with Joseph Fox, about school conce»n§?1imdiadds^
" Dear Fox and I traced the gracious support of >^Six^.jKrov-i-den(eii
under the work, and were comforted ; some sweetMfe^hngs "afterwards
attended my mind, and faith revived." v OoU*??6" t-, f
Much care and responsibility rested upon Willian^ljjnjf^^c^l^y'/
about this period, in consequence of his official coim^aQpjfJmtl
Duke of Kent, but his zeal to serve the interests of one who had so
nobly supported the friends of liberal education, as well as many worthy
and benevolent objects, led him cheerfully to make the needful sacrifice.
Neither time nor exertion were spared to aid in arranging for the great
work of extrication, and, at the close of one laborious day, when some
important steps had been taken, he writes —
" I feel peace in this affair, and if my feelings do not deceive me,
this exertion to help him is right."
The Duke of Kent's grateful sense of his services was, from time to
time, acknowledged in very feeling and gratifying terms.
"Twelfth Month 5th. — African Institution ; very thin attendance. It
appeared that there was great dissatisfaction among the natives of
Africa, at our Government making soldiers for life of the captured
slaves : it appeared, also, that measures have been taken by Govern
ment for the relief of the poor blacks who have been discharged from
ships of war.
30th. — Invested subscription, for the British and Foreign School
Society, five thousand two hundred and ninety pounds."

CHAPTER VII.
1816. — African Concerns — Correspondence, &c. on Schools — Duke of Kent's Business —
Savings' Banks— Juvenile Depredators — African Institution— Death of J. Fox — Brougham's
Education Bill— Journey on the Continent — Death of his Wife at Geneva — Returns Home
.—Lectures — Correspondence on Invested School Subscription.
" First Month 1st, 1816. — This country is, at present, at peace with
all the world, unless any exception exist in India ; but affairs are by no
means settled in France ; the people there seem only to be kept down
by the strong arm of power. South America is likely to be emancipated
before long. — 1 went up fo N. Vansittart about Paul Cuffee ; he was
Vol. I. 13

194 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1816.
not at home : I then went to the Bible committee, where I found him,
ahd had a conference ; it appears that in consequence of the peace, they
cannot license Cuffee, as heretofore. We expect to hear that he and
the settlers have arrived at Sierra Leone, and that Thorp and Gabbidoh
have also reached that place, in the Minerva. African produce is very
discouragingly low,^in value. Buckle, the surveyor, is to go out soon.
We must follow up the business of lands with the government, and I hope
that this year the colonists will make progress with the growth of cot
ton, &c. Wrote letters to Africa ; to P. Cuffee,* James Wyse, Thorp,
and Gabbidon, and sent them, together with some goods, by the Olive
Branch, now in the Downs.
First Month 2nd. — Engaged in school concerns ; we hope to raise
a new building this year, and fo begin the plan of school associations.
In Paris, Martin seems going on well with the school there : in Russia,
prospects open. Attended finance committee at four o'clock.
4th  Went to Montagu's, Bedford Square, to attend the committee
on capital punishments ; thence to the general meeting of the Juvenile
Benevolent Society, at the New London Tavern.
1th. — Addressed the following letter to Francis Martin at Paris :
' London, First Month S/A, 1816.
' My Dear Friend, Francis Martin,
' Had I not known that my dear colleague, Joseph Fox, gives thee
an account, from time to time, of what is doing here on the subject of
general education, I should have written long ago. Thy zeal in this
blessed work, which I indeed believe is the Lord's, and thy attributing
all that has been done to His gracious assistance, have endeared thee
to me in a particular manner. Though conscious of many imperfections
in myself, I trust I have this one mark of discipleship, that I love those
who, as I believe, love the Lord Jesus, howrever they may differ from
me in some matters of opinion. I sympathize with thee, my dear friend,
in thy very arduous labours, and in thy critical situation, but as thou
endeavourest to keep a single eye to the glory of God, and the good
of his creatures, with fervent prayers for the influence of his divine
Spirit, strength will be afforded commensurate with the trials of the day.
* In the letter here alluded to, after giving P. Cuffee much important information, and
also instructions relative to the colony at Sierra Leone, W. Allen concludes with the fol
lowing lines : —
" And now, my dear friend, as I believe that thou hast embarked in this business from a
benevolent desire to benefit the natives of Africa, may thy mind be constantly directed to
tbe Universal Father of the great family of man, with prayers that he would prosper the
work in thy hands; and, as thou art attentive to the operations of the Spirit of Christ in
thy own soul, thou wilt become -a useful instrument in the Lord's hand, and be steered
safely through the storms and cross occurrences of time, to the haven of everlasting rest.
Requesting to hear from thee as soon as possible,
I remain, thy affectionate friend, William Allen."

1816. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 195
He is omnipotent, and will carry on his own work in his own way. Let
us then cast all our care upon him, avoiding, as much as possible, all
anxiety about the event, but taking especial care that we do not retard
the business- by any imprudence. I was rather sorry to hear that some
persons had been writing to thee from England on the subject of the
persecutions in the South of France. Now, I am very much of the
mind that we are not yet sufficiently informed of the real state of the
case, and I also think that your king is of too benevolent a disposition
to promote, or even to permit persecution on account of religion. Great
excesses have, no doubt, been committed, but I trust that your govern
ment will be anxious to put a stop to them. I think that the persons
who wrote to thee, would have done better if they had sent some one
to Nismes to make inquires on the spot. At all events, my dear friend,
be cautious of acting or writing, in reference to this business, from any
thing but a sense of duty ; enough will be found, without thee, to in
quire into this matter.
We have collected the materials for a new publication; called 'A
Manual of the British System of Education,' which will contain such
an accurate description of all jthe minutiae of our schools, that those
who have never seen one may be able to comprehend the whole busi
ness, and even to organize a school by it. I think your committee
should translate and print it. I have had much conversation with the
Russian ambassador on the subject of establishing the plan in Russia ;
and, at his request, have furnished him with my ideas in writing, which
I expect he has forwarded to the Emperor; so that, in the course of a
month or two, I hope we shall hear from that quarter. My letters from
North America state that the plan is making rapid progress there, and
that, in some parts, they are supported by large grants of money from
the government. We are about to make a great effort to excite an
interest in the poor themselves for the education of their children, by
means of school associations. If we succeed in a few districts of this
metropolis, the work will rapidly spread ; and the good effects upon
the great mass of the community, in promoting morality and virtue
among them, will be incalculable. We shall not fail to inform thee of
our plan when it is completed.
I am still going on with the same round Of engagements as when
thou wast with us, and often think of thee as I walk over the bridge to
give my evening lectures at the Hospital, and recollect the conversa
tions we used to have, when we went there together. Having men
tioned that I was writing to thee, my dear wife-and daughter desire to
be kindly remembered. Please to, tell the Abbe Gaultier, with my love
to him, that I was much pleased with his kind letter. I should be
glad to be personally acquainted with the Count Lasteyrie, having been
much struck with the strong good sense and general philanthropy,

196 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1816.
which runs through his interesting little work on schools.' You have
also many other benevolent characters, to whom I am sure I should
feel attached if I knew more of them.
Pray write to us, and believe me thy ever affectionate friend,
William Allen.'
First Month 9th. — Attended the finance committee of the African
Institution ; ordered appeal to be printed, and proofs sent round to the
absent members. At two o'clock, attended the committee on the
Duke of Kent's business.
13th. — I have felt more inward support this week than for some time
before ;_ may the language of my soul be, ' Draw me and I will run
after thee.'
15th. — Went up to Gordon's about T. Buckle ; also to the Admi
ralty and Transport Board, to get him regularly appointed, as Govern
ment Surveyor, at Sierra Leone.
11th. — George Stacey, of Tottenham, died this morning; thus
another pillar in the Church is removed.
18th. — I called on the Chevalier Joseph de Baader, to see his model
of an improved railway. Thence to HarleyStreet, to see the Baron de
Strandman. 19th. — School committee at twelve, largely attended ; dear Joseph
Fox present, though very unwell.
20th. — Charles Barclay, Charles Dudley, and Robert Stevens, met
me at Plough Court, on the subject of savings' hanks for the poor; and
we laid the first stone of the building.
22nd. — Attended an interesting committee on juvenile depredators.
25th  Went, this day, in company with my dear Charlotte, my sis
ter, and Mary, to the funeral of our dear friend George Stacey, at
Tottenham ; Joseph Foster, Luke Howard, W. Fry, Jr Rutter, R.
Forster, and myself, were the bearers ; the remains were taken into
meeting at eleven o'clock ; the house was quite full, and a precious
degree of divine solemnity was felt. This was also the case in the
evening, at the house of our late dear friend.
26th. — I went with C. Dudley and R. Stevens to the Chancellor of
the Exchequer, on the business of savings' banks for the poor,
First Month 21th. — Had a conference with C. Dudley, R. Stevens,
and J. Miller, on school associations, &c. ; we are now beginning in
earnest ; I presented to them my sketch of the plan, and prepared a
new report. y
30th  Attended African Institution.
31st. — My spirits are much depressed on various accounts. The
Lord only knows what trials and exercises will conduce to our preserva
tion and refinement. May He be graciously pleased to purify my heart,
and make me an instrument in his holy harid, for the good of others.

1816. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 197
Second Month 2nd. — The Meeting for Sufferings, at which our dear
friend Isaac Stephenson strongly recommended some of us to turn our
attention to writing pamphlets, &c, to promote the great cause of
religion ; it came home to me.
5th. — Attended sub-committee of African Institution, on finance ;
also the committee respecting juvenile depredators.
6th. — School committee.
10th. — Attended a meeting with a few persons, at C. Barclay's, on
the subject of savings' banks ; afterwards school committee, at Paul's
Coffee House.
12th. — Went to the House of Commons to meet Brougham, on the
subject of schools at Westminster.
15th. — First meeting on the subject of an auxiliary school society,
for Southwark, Charles Barclay, M. P., in the chair. It was fully agreed
upon, that the auxiliary and association be forthwith organized. This
is a grand measure ; may the divine blessing be upon it.
24th. — William Law places, in a striking light, the duty and import
ance of a constant endeavour to please God in all our actions, and shows
that we should carry it into our concerns in business.
Very flat and low this week ; when we are most destitute of the feeling
of divine support, our watch should be unremitting, lest evil thoughts
and evil propensities prevail.
Third Month 2nd. — To Kensington, with Joseph Fox ; had an in
terview with the Duke of Sussex, communicated to him the plan of the
auxiliary and associations in Southwark, for British schools ; presented
him with the books from the Meeting for Sufferings, viz. — Barclay's
Apology, Book of Extracts, Tuke's Principles, Summary ; also some of
the Thoughts on the Importance of Religion.
During this week I have had some revival of faith and hope. Oh, the
mystery of the ways of the Almighty ! Nothing short of the influence
of His divine Spirit can make a true believer. ' The spirit searcheth all
things, yea, the deep things of God.' It is impossible, in the carnal
state, to believe properly in the attributes of God. Oh, the mass of in
fidelity, wickedness, cruelty, and oppression which exists in the world!
What a scene of iniquity is opened by our investigation into the case
of juvenile depredators.
Fourth Month 4th. — Thomas Clarkson, who has been for some time
our guest at Plough Court, has received a very excellent letter from
Christophe, the black Emperor of Hayti; it is brought by Prince
Sanders. Attended the meeting of the African Institution, and had a conference
with Wilberforce about Hayti.
Went to the Borough ' Road school to meet M. Camille, Jourdan,

198 LIFE AND. CORRESPONDENCE 1816.
&c. ; was much pleased that I was there, having some very interesting
conversation with them. Afterwards attended the committee of the
auxiliary at the Three Tuns, Southwark ; where we got on but heavily,
dear Joseph Fox being confined at home by illness : I fear he is seri
ously affected.
5th. — Meeting for Sufferings.— The important subject of a visit to
Friends of Pyrmont and Minden was fully considered. It has long been
thought desirable, and the meeting.now proceeded to attempt an appoint
ment. I was one of those nominated; I requested to have time to con
sider of it ; I should not object if I believed it to be a duty.
8th. — Attended the first meeting on the London Savings' Banks, at
the Merchant Seamen's Office ; Sir James Shaw in the chair. After
wards the committee oh juvenile depredators.
10th. — Received a great shock on hearing of the sudden removal
from this scene of trial and conflict, of my dear and intimate friend,
Joseph Fox, at the age of forty. He was my invaluable and disin
terested fellow-labourer in the cause of the education of the poor : I
have the strongest assurance that ..the change is, to him, unspeakably
glorious. The day before his decease he said that his work was now
over, and that he was completely resigned to the divine will ; that he
had a most comfortable assurance that, through the dear Redeemer, he
should be received into the heavenly mansion, — that he felt great, con
solation in a review of his arduous labours for the best interests of the
poor ; he also said that, on his own account he had no wish to live,— -
he was thankful in seeing the great work in a fair way to be established.
This is a loss which I shall long feel. We were closely united on the
great foundation of revealed religion, as well as in school concerns: in
all our difficulties, we used to comfort and strengthen one another, in
the firm belief that the work was the Lord's. Very-precious hast thou
been to me, my brother !
Fourth Month 11th— Went to Argyle Street with M. Gibbs, to hear
the will of dear Joseph Fox : on my return home, my spirit was greatly
contrited, and the divine presence and love so overshadowed me with
the strongest evidence that my dear friend was centred in eternal hap
piness, that there was not the least j-oom for doubt ; and this event;
instead of depressing me to despair, was wonderfully made a means of
increasing my faith in that almighty power which we have both believed
in. He has left me one of his executors, and also joint guardian of his
children with his mother-in-law.
18th. — Luke Howard took Joseph Foster and me in his carriage, to
the Borough Road, where we" met H. Brougham, and about twenty^five
of the school committee. A little after twelve, the funeral procession
of my dear friend, Joseph Fox, passed ; we fell in with it, and accom-

1816. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 199
panied it to the Baptist meeting-house, Long Lane, Southwark. We
were well satisfied with having paid this last tribute of affectionate
regard to the memory of our dear friend."
William Allen received, at this time, letters from several persons
distinguished for their benevolence and public usefulness, expressing
their deep regret at the loss which the community had sustained by the
death of Joseph Fox. Amongst other manifestations of sympathy with
the sorrow of his surviving friend, that truly noble Prince, the Duke of
Kent, addressed to him a letter of condolence, in which he says, he
had " felt the loss of that excellent man most deeply, whether he be
considered as a private friend, or a public philanthropist.
"Fourth Month 20th. — I went to Kensington, and was very favoura
bly received by the Duke of Kent ; explained to him the state of the
school concerns : he' fixed the 13th of next month for the great meeting
at the City of London Tavern. — I have been more favoured with the
influence of divine good this week than usual.
21th. — Almost the whole of this last week spent about the business of
E. Waring's- executorship. Dear Charlotte accompanied my brother
Joseph and me to Bath: we there attended the funeral of the late
William Matthews.
I spent about five hours in a trip to Bristol, to see my venerable
friend, Richard Reynolds; we had interesting conversation, and I
parted very affectionately with the dear old man, whom I shall proba
bly never see any more.
My brother Joseph and I, with Daniel Rutter and John Hyde, a
magistrate, met at the Blanket Hall, and made the distribution of the
bequest of Elijah Waring, being a guinea each to about 755 persons ;
it was very satisfactorily got through."
About this time, William Allen received a letter containing an extract
from one dated Paris, April 8th, with information respecting the schools
on tbe British system established in France, as follows : —
" The illustrious Louis, following out his wise plans, has, last week,
dismissed Mr. Martin from the control of the school. The fact was
signified by the prefect of the department, who seems, from having
presided at a late meeting, to have been interested in the welfare of the
schools ; and he informed Mr. Martin, in confidence, that it was in con
sequence of an order from his Majesty, and that the only reason given was
his religion. This sort of conduct, as it may be extended to every thing,
does , not surely need the support of a test act. All sorts of appoint
ments, even to parish officers, are in the hands of government, and the
government wills that none but Catholics should possess them. I notice,
almost every week, long lists of judges appointed or displaced."
"Fourth Month 29th.— The first meeting of the Southwark Auxiliary

200 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1816.
School Society, at the Horns, at Kennington, — a very respectable
meeting ; the Dukes of Kent and Sussex were there, and, as usual,
behaved nobly. I had to open and explain the business : began with a
little tribute to the memory of my dear fellow-labourer, J. Fox : the
business of the day went off exceedingly well.
Fifth Month 1st — Francis Martin arrived from Paris ; I invited him
to take up his abode, for a while, at Plough Court."
In the review of the week, W. A. remarks —
" Struggling on with my weights and burdens ; got rid of one for
the present, last third-day evening, when I gave the concluding lecture
of the course on experimental philosophy. Endeavoured to direct the,
minds of the pupils to Him, whose almighty power produced and
supports the system of the universe.
At a meeting of the vestry on fifth-day, my neighbours kindly con
cluded to excuse me from the office of churchwarden, on the grounds
of my conscientious scruple, for which I returned them my grateful
acknowledgments. 13th. — Intensely engaged in preparing the school report, F. Martin
assisting me. We then went to the great school meeting at the Old
London Tavern ; Duke of Kent in the chair. Dr. Collyer read the
report excellently well'; the room was crowded ; my spirits were much
depressed, and I only said a few words on the general statement of
accounts. The infidel spirit began to develope its plans, as manifested
in one of the speeches ; there is an effort to erept the Westminister
society into a counterplot, to get rid of the Bible altogether. Thus a
new era is forming in this arduous work. May the Lord strengthen
the hands of his poor feeble servants! At the close of the meeting, the
Duke of Kent took leave in a very impressive manner, previous to his
setting out for the continent."
In order to facilitate a satisfactory settlement of the private business,
to which William Allen,, with some other individuals, most disinter
estedly devoted much time and attention, the Duke of Kent proposed
to reside for some years on the continent. By this arrangement, a
much larger proportion of his revenues was appropriated to the object,
of which, from a high principle of honour and integrity, this noble prince
felt the great importance.
" Fifth Month 20th. — I received a note from Brougham, to inform
me that he was about to move for a committee of the House on the
subject of the education of the poor, with notice that he should call me
up to give evidence before the committee. I was glad that the subject
was to be brought forward ; but I sent Brougham an urgent request
that I might not be called upon until after the Yearly Meeting, which
commenced to-day.

1816. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 201
F 21st  After meeting, went to the House of Commons; saw Brougham,
who made the motion, and got the committee appointed. Had much
conversation with him, which was very important.
24th. — Had again to attend the committee of the House of Commons,
but got to our meeting for discipline.
Sixth Month 1st. — Yearly Meeting closed; my faith and confidence
were renewed and strengthened by attending it. It does seem right
that I should go to the continent on the appointment of the Yearly
Meeting, and that it is my business to take some care of our dear friend,
E. Robson, whe has a religious concern to visit Friends of Pyrmont
and Minden, and also in the South of France. My mental petitions
were fervent for an intimation of the divine will. I have attended
every sitting of this Yearly Meeting, also the committees on epistles,
and had peace in fulfilling this religious duty.
3rd  Went to the House of Commons to attend Brougham's com
mittee. Was examined as to the nature and progress of the plan of
the British and Foreign Schobl Society.
4th — Committee on African concerns ; Thomas Clarkson and Prince
Sanders present.
An important conference with James Cropper about Sierra Leone.
Sixth Month 6th. — Went to the great school meeting at Shadwell ;
upwards of one thousand persons were present. The Duke of Kent in
the chair."
In the review of the Week, W. A. says —
" My examination on the subject of the education of the poor, by the
committee of the House of Commons, has occupied much of three days.
The prospect of leaving England so soon, and the many important
concerns^ I have previously to settle, together with the weight of the
undertaking, press heavily upon my spirit.
11th. — ^Committee of African Institution at one o'clock. Important
letters from Majors Peddy and Campbell. Engaged with J. Picton
over the 'manual.
14th — Attended first meeting, at Spital Square, of the Auxiliary
School Society for the north-east district of London.
lit h. — Committee on juvenile depredators ; afterwards that of African
Institution. Important letters and remittances from Sierra Leone ; then
attended the Duke of Kent's committee.
20th. — School committee ; numerous attendance and very satisfactory.
23rd. — Had some precious internal support during the last week.— I
am getting on with the manual of the Borough Road School, Picton and
Martin assisting me ; it is the most, important thing that has been done
for a long time, and, I doubt not, will contribute greatly to spread the
plan. 21th — Went to Whitehall ; saw Lord Sidmouth, who kindly gave

202 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1816.
me an introductory letter to his brother Addington, at Berne. After
wards to Walworth, to attend a meeting of fhe first school association
there. 28th. — Went up to Ni Vansittart ; was very kindly received ; had a
conference with him about Africa, school concerns, &c. ; he gave me
a note to Baron Fagel, the ambassador from the Netherlands, who
kindly furnished the passport and three letters of introduction."
William Allen left home on the 1st of Seventh Month, to visit those
who profess with Friends, &c, in Germany and France, agreeably to
the appointment of the Yearly Meeting : he was accompanied by his
wife, their nephew Cornelius Hanbury, and by their friend Francis
Martin. On arriving at Dover, W. A. says—
" We here met our dear friends, Elizabeth Robson and Elizabeth Fry.
Seventh Month 2nd, — Weather very fine ; shipped the carriage on
board the Lady Castlereagh, and at half-past twelve we set sail. Had
a favourable passage, and thought we should have arrived by seven
o'clock ; but these hopes died away with the wind, and we were com
pletely becalmed in full view of Calais, distant about five or six miles;
we made signals, and three boats came to us, and we were rowed to
the Pier, which we reached at ten o'clock. When we lauded, there
was a great crowd ; a very agreeable man came to me, saying, he was
sent by Monsieur Quillac to conduct us to his hotel. He showed us
the spot where Louis XVIII. first landed ; it is marked by a square flat
plate, in which the shape of his foot is sunk about a quarter of an inch ;
my foot exactly fitted it. Opposite is a column erected on the occasion.
Our passports, &c, were quicklyexamined, and we were permitted to
proceed to Quillac 's. I gave him a letter from Thomas Clarkson; he
received us very kindly, and we were well accommodated at his hotel.
3rd. — -Left Calais, and proceeded over a very flat and level road,
paved exactly like the streets in London."
William Allen and his companions passed through Gravelines to
Dunkirk : of the latter place he says —
" The spirit of bigotry prevails here. We saw a new chapel near the
sea, devoted to the Virgin Mary, which contained an image- of one foot
and a half high, said fo have been miraculously preserved, when the
steeple which contained it was blown up by the explosion of a maga
zine. This image is the object of peculiar adoration among sailors,
who, in time of danger, offer up their vows to it. The wives "and rela
tions of persons at sea pay their special devotions to it."
The travellers then proceeded through Belgium, stopping at some of
the chief towns, where W. A. inspected the principal public institutions.
Seventh Month 6th. — At Ghent, he, and his friend Martin, availed
themselves of an introduction from/ Baron Fagel, to visit the governor,

1816. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 203
who received them very kindly, and was much interested by the infor
mation which they communicated to him, particularly in reference to
the education of the poor. JBy the governor's direction they were con
ducted through the large prison at Ghent, called the Maison de Force.
The building and its arrangements, together with the treatment of the
prisoners, gave them great satisfaction. The criminals were employed
at various trades, each in a separate, commodious cell, being allowed
to associate and converse with none but the persons who had the over
sight of them. The provisions of the penal code, (under which none
were punished with death, excepting for wilful murder,) and the entire
management of the convicts, were found to be so much in advance of
those of his own country, that W. A. concludes his observations on
this prison, with the following remarks —
" When I contrasted this enlightened system, which has so long
flourished here, and produced such excellent effects, with the savage
code of my own country, and the horrid management of our own
prisons, my mind was agitated with conflicting sentiments of delight
and indignation."
At Antwerp, William Allen and his companions met with some ex
cellent persons who were accustomed to meet together to worship God,
in a manner more in accordance with spiritual Christianity than the
professors around them : he describes them as —
('A very little flock, in the midst of a bigoted and benighted peo
ple ; they spoke of experiencing great peace and consolation in the
interior life, through which they have sweet communion with the Lord."
He adds, "E. Robson, E. Fry, and dear Charlotte, had a religious
opportunity with some of them. I wished to be present, as I feel sym
pathy with this little flock, situated in the midst of gross darkness, but
was prevented by a visit from the Baron Scheremberg, « Membre de la
Commission Generale de Bienfaisance et des Hospices du Royaume
des Pays Bas.' I was much pleased with the interview with him ; ex
plained to him the British system of schools, also made remarks on the
cells of the Maison des Foux, and engaged to send him Samuel Tuke's
work on the Retreat, with other pamphlets."
Seventh Month JOth. — Before they quitted Antwerp, William Allen
had opportunities of meeting other persons of influence and authority.
In reference to the governor, he says —
" I found him a very sensible and highly benevolent man ; he told
me how much he had; at. heart the promotion of those plans which I
was so desirous of forwarding. We had much conversation on the
subject of educating the poor ; he felt deeply convinced of the defi
ciency in the Low Countries ;1 briefly explained to him the British
system, and gave him a_ manual of the Borough Road plan, with which
he was much pleased. I told him that if they were disposed to adopt

204 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1816.
the system, and would send over some lads to England, they should
be instructed in the plan in our institution. The interview was highly
satisfactory ; the governor regretted that he did not know of our visit
until we were just about to depart, but desired that if, in the course of
our journey, we met with any thing in public establishments likely to
be useful, we would write to him ; he invited us to dinner ; I presented
him with a Summary of the principles of our Religious Society, in
French, which he seemed to receive with pleasure."
12th. — Immediately after this interview, the travellers proceeded to
Breda; thence through Dortrecht to Rotterdam; here, on the 12th,
W. A. says —
" T. Ledeboer, who possesses considerable property, and takes a
very active part in the Bible Society, Missionary Society, Orphan
Schools, &c, took Martin and me to these different institutions."
W. A. was particularly interested in the schools of public utility,
where upwards of two thousand six hundred children were taught; and
he was much impressed with the importance of introducing the system
of the Borough Road school.
At the house of Ledeboer, W. A. and his companions had a religious
meeting with some pious persons.
"L. interpreted what was communicated into Dutch, renderingit
sentence by sentence, in a very agreeable manner ; it was concluded by
prayer, which was not interpreted; but one of the women said, that,
although she could not understand, she co\Ao\ feel it ;" an elderly woman
also seemed much affected ; she could speak English, and told me she
blessed the Lord that she had been there that morning; that she was,
convinced they had talked too much, and that it was necessary to
be more inward, and retired in spirit. This little gathering was, I
humbly trust, owned by the overshadowing of divine good, which was
very sensibly to be felt."
They now proceeded to the Hague, where they arrived on the 14th ;
here they had an interview with Count de Hogendorp, with whom they
had much conversation on the schools, both of Holland and Batavia;
also on the efforts now making for the civilization of Africa. The Count
appeared very much pleased with a mutual intercourse of good offices
between Sierra Leone and Delmina, and expressed his intention to have
schools established at the latter place. After taking leave of the Count,
they set out in search of M. Repaleur, Directeur des Cultes, &c. ; W.
A. remarks —
" He received us very kindly ; said that he was acquainted with the
Society of Friends, and esteemed them highly. On opening a letter
from Baron Fagel, introducing me to him, I found that it containeda
letter, which my kind friend, N. Vansittart, had written with his own
hand, informing Repaleur that my object in travelling was to visit in-

1816. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 205
stitutions of public utility, and to see pious persons, in different coun
tries, recommending me to his kind notice and attention. This very
friendly conduct of the Chancellor of the Exchequer I shall long re
member. I presented to the Minister, Repaleur, some pamphlets,
Bible Society papers, and African Institution reports; he gave a general
introduction, and put us under the care of his nephew, Van der Dussen,
a very intelligent young man, who had been brought up under Pesta-
lozzi. He took us to the schools, and, afterwards to the workhouse ; at
the latter place, we were joined by the general director of all the poor-
houses, Slingerland."
W. A. speaks of him as a very interesting and sensible man. Here
a religious opportunity was obtained, at which, about one hundred of
the inmates were present.
" Slingerland enjoined silence, then addressing the poor people in
Dutch, he informed them of the visit. Elizabeth Fry first addressed
them, then Elizabeth Robson, both in a very suitable manner; and T.
Cator interpreted, sentence by sentence, very agreeably. The director,
Slingerland, seemed much pleased, and desired T. Cator to express his
thanks to our friends. They afterwards had a similar opportunity of
religious communication with the children of the Orphan House for
-Protestants ; about two hundred and sixty were present. E. Robson
addressed them very suitably. F. Martin interpreted in French to a
lady of their committee, who rendered it into Dutch to the children.
They behaved very well, and some of them were affected by it, and
shook hands with me very respectfully as I passed."
Our travellers thence proceeded through Leydon and Haarlem to
Amsterdam, where they visited the Rasp-house, a prison in which the
convicts are employed in rasping log-wood and other timber for dyes.
They also inspected, the workhouse, the country hospital, the schools,
and the foundling hospital. They were here assisted by their friend J.
S. Mollet, who had recently settled in Amsterdam.
They left Amsterdam on the 23rd of Seventh Month, and passed on
to TUtrecht; here they went over the prisons, and the hospital for the
insane : and then visited the Moravian settlement at Zeist.
After leaving Zeist, they passed through a very poor country, over
bad roads, and through towns exhibiting much wretchedness. Near
Borreken W. A. remarks —
"I always considered this as the wilderness part of our journey, a
sort of Terra Incognita; the change for the worse, in the appearance
of the people and their habitations, is very striking. We see crosses,
and all manner of popish trumpery, so that ignorance, dirt, misery,
and superstition, seem to be naturally connected.
We frequently meet with large representations of the crucifixion on
the sides of the road, which, in every sense of the word, have a shock-

206 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1816.
ing appearance. There are also figures in bas-relief, representing some
circumstances in the life of our Saviour. In many instances a box is
placed to receive the contributions of passengers. We passed a great
many of these, they are often miserable daubs of painting, one of them
intended to represent the ascension of the Virgin in full bottomed petti
coats of flaring red, and she is exhibited as going up, with monks
under her, in the act of adoration."
The travellers arrived at Minden on the 31st of Seventh Month ;
here they spent some days, visiting all the Friends who were united
with us in religious profession. They also paid similar visits at Eiden-
hausen ; here they were particularly interested with a boys' school for
the children of Friends, kept by a person who had joined our society ;
they had a religious opportunity with the scholars, at which all the
Friends were present. They also had meetings with Friends and
others at Minden, on which occasions the help of their friend, Francis
Martin, as interpreter, was found to be very valuable. <
On their way from Minden to Pyrmont, they passed through Hamejn,
a town belonging to the kingdom of Hanover, of which W. A. remarks —
" It had been, until recently, a strongly fortified place ; but during
the late war, after a dreadful siege, was taken and destroyed by the
French, who were, as the inhabitants told us, a whole year in demolish
ing the fortifications. The people of Hameln were obliged to assist;
many of them did not regret it, as it had been the means of attracting
so many hostile armies to the spot, by which they had suffered greatly."
On the 6th of Eighth Month they reached Pyrmont, and continued
there until the 15th, during which time they were frequently engaged
in having religious opportunities with those who profess the principles
of Friends in and near that place, as well as attending the usual meet
ings in the wreek and on first days, to which many who were not mem
bers of our society frequently came. They were much concerned to
find that, from some apparently trifling causes, the harmony of the little
company of Friends there, had been much disturbed ; a root of bitter
ness had been implanted, and in some minds had sprung up, so as to
cause much trouble. W. Allen believed it right to have a private
interview with the individuals concerned, in company with Francis
Martin, as interpreter. Of this occasion he makes the following memo
randum : —
" On meeting them, I was under much concern of mind, being thus
alone, with so weighty a work on my hands ; but my secret petitions
were fervent that I might be favoured with divine help, and that' if I
could do no good, I might, at least, be prevented from doing any harm.
After a little time of silence, I addressed them under a feeling of love
and sweetness, that I have not often experienced, and had humbly to
believe that my request was granted. I desired that they would state

1816. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 207
what it was that had grieved any of them, with respect to the conduct
of a brother or a sister ; some free communications passed, with ex
planations that tended to their reconciliation ; the cause of offence
seemed, chiefly, to rest with two individuals. After a pause I addressed
these persons, reminding them that they were both much advanced in
years, and in the common course of nature, verging towards that state,
in which it would be felt extremely desirable to them to be rid of this
burden. They then embraced each other, and most present burst into
tears ; it was indeed a heart-touching scene, and I believe, deeply felt
by every one as a memorable time ; all present parted with appearance
of much love and tenderness."
In the neighbourhood of Pyrmont and Herford, W. A. visited the
salt works, consisting of long ranges of wooden frames, constructed of
branches of trees, over which runs a stream of water, strongly impreg
nated with common salt, which, by the action of the sun and air,
evaporates, leaving the salt crystallized on the twigs.
Tbe clay before they left Pyrmont, they had a farewell meeting
with the Friends, who resided there and in the neighbourhood, which
is thus described: —
"Both our dear companions were engaged in imparting much excel
lent counsel, which F. Martin interpreted ; my dear Charlotte also ex
horted them not to forsake the assembling of themselves together ; and
lastly, I encouraged them to read the Scriptures frequently, and also to
cause their children to read them; likewise to be diligent in attending
their meetings on fourth as well as first-days ; and especially to dis
courage tale-bearing and detraction, and to live in love and peace : we
had an affectionate parting, and I feel great peace. Whatever may be
the result, it is, to those here, a fresh visitation."
On the fifteenth of Eighth Month they quitted Pyrmont, and, by
short stages, proceeded to Carlshaven ; from this place, some of the
company returned to Pyrmont; but W. A. and his wife, accompanied
by F. Martin, proceeded slowly to Cassel. A few miles before enter
ing the latter, place, W. A. remarks —
¦ " On the right there are some very high hills, covered with trees ; in
the midst of them a steeple, almost in the highest part ; this, I afterwards
found, is the palace of William's Hohe, formerly called Napoleon's
Hohe, said to afford the finest prospect in Europe, and that the palace
would require a day to view it.
After arriving at Hesse Cassel, W. A. remarks —
, " Here I met with a son of Sir J. Sinclair, who went with me to the
Orphan House, containing about seventy children, who are taught to
read and write. This, like other institutions in this part of the world,
has lost a great portion of its funds in the late wars. We found out a
clergyman, who is acquainted with Steinkopff, Professor Klingender;

208 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1816.
he seems a nice old man. We saw, also, the poor-house for the French
refugees, which seems to be well kept. Dear Charlotte is rather indis
posed, and I am anxious about her ; she, however, walked with me to
the orangery, and marble baths ; at the latter are some very beautiful
statues, as large as life. On our return to the inn we welcomed our
friends, who had arrived safely from Pyrmont, where they had been
favoured to accomplish their religious engagements, to their satisfaction
and peace of mind. Sir John Sinclair's son is a very agreeable young
man ; he is intending to visit the courts of seven or eight of the German
Princes, particularly the Duke of Weimar, who, he says, is an enlight
ened man, and has the good of his subjects much at heart, — that he is
very fond of the English and their institutions. I gave Sinclair a manual
of the British system, with which he seems much pleased, and promises
to show it every where, particularly to the Duke of Weimar; he seems
glad to be put in the way of doing good. We missed seeing the finest
thing in this part of the country, and, as it is said, in Europe, by not
going to seethe palace, fountains, water-falls, &c, at William's Hohe,
on the top of the hill, which I noticed in coming to Cassel ; but we had
been so long detained, and my spirits were so sunk, that I was earnest
to get on.
Eighth Month 21st.- — We started from Cassel, which is a very fine
place ; the roads here are excellent ; the wooded hills of William's
Hohe must be very high, as we see them from a great distance."
A little before entering Freidburg, W. A. says —
"There are, on our right, very extensive saltworks," on the plan of
those we have already visited ; one large range is sheltered from the
weather by boarding, with openings at the side, so that the evaporation
may always go forward ; they have salt mills here, and little windmills
to pump up the brine.
At Frankfort, on the 22nd, I received a packet of letters from Eng
land ; several of them were from my dear friend J. T. Barry ; his brotherly
attention in thus writing is very cordial to me. I also received a letter
from my dear friend Joseph Foster -r his devotedness to the cause of
our suffering fellow-creatures has long rendered him very dear- to. my
heart. At Frankfort we were introduced to several Moravians, who ap
peared excellent men : also to J. C. Wild, a tanner, through whom
we have corresponded with Gossner at Munich.
Eighth Month 24th.— After breakfast J. C. Wild took me to visit
Gericht Rath Von Meyer, one of the senators of Frankfortrsur-Maine,
and one of the first promoters of the Bible Society instituted here; he
has a sedate sensible countenance, and seems an excellent man ; he
was in his study, where he received me very cordially: he speaks
English intelligibly. As he is a Lutheran I was surprised at seeing a

1816. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 209
crucifix before him, but I afterwards found that they are in the practice
of using them, and that they also have pictures in their places of wor
ship; those who belong to the reformed church reject these things. I
had much interesting conversation with Meyer respecting schools, &c.
We afterwards visited Pastor Passavant, a minister of the reformed
church ; he received us in a very friendly manner. We then inspected
•the prison, lunatic asylum, hospitals, Minister school, and the orphan
house. On arriving at the latter the boys were in their play-ground or
gymnasium ; it was the first time I had witnessed any thing of the kind ;
I never saw the most expert sailors perform exploits equal to them.
25th. — First-day. We had a religious meeting in our chamber,
which, though silent, was comforting. Afterwards, accompanied by
dear Cornelius, I took a walk in the environs, — they are very beautiful.
After tea we had a meeting at Christian Wild's, in a room which he
had fitted up with forms like a little meeting-house. Von Meyer, and
about twelve other pious persons were present, three of them women.
Our dear friends were engaged in the ministry, and E. R. in prayer. I
was sensible of the divine presence, and my heart was so filled with
love and sympathy for these people, that, could I have spoken their
language, I should have been glad to hand them a word of encourage
ment. 'We parted from them in much affection. C. Wild spent the
rest of the evening with us ; he is a very nice old man. On taking
leave he kissed me, first on the one cheek, and then on the other, and
then once again ; this is the usual custom in solemn salutation."
On the 26th, our travellers left Frankfort, and passing through Darm
stadt, a large well-built town, reached Heidelberg, where they lodged.
W. A. notices this city as " beautifully situated, and a very interesting
place." After leaving it, they proceeded through Bruchsall, where
throngs of people were assembled, it being the time of their great fair ;
almost all kinds of articles were exhibited for sale; amongst the rest
were tracts in the true papistical style. One was entitled, " Sent by
the Angel Raphael," another, " Sent by the Mother of God." W. A.
says — ,
" The countenances of the people showed great want of intelligence ;
the women are generally employed in reaping and field-labour ; they
wear enormously large straw bonnets ; the men wear three-cornered
hats, equally large in proportion.
Eighth Month.21th — Reached Carlsruhe : on entering the gates our
names were announced in the usual manner, viz. — ' Professeur Allen
et famille.' This is a very elegant place, with fine houses and wide
streets, and seems to be the residence of the fashionables of the coun
try. The Prince of Baden has his palace near it. The Vosges moun
tains are seen in the horizon from the environs of the town."
At Strasburg, where they next stopped, are the following remarks:—
Vol. I. 14

210 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1816.
" The cathedral is very magnificent, and between four and five hun
dred feet in height. We went to what is called St. Thomas's Church,
belonging to the Lutherans, and saw the splendid marble monument to
the memory of Marshal Saxe.
29th. — We proceeded to Colmar, and on the 30th to Basle. Here
Martin, Cornelius, and I, called on one of our Bible friends, C. F.
Spittler; he appears to be an excellent man ; he took us to a professor
of theology, named Medville, who also interests himself in the Bible
cause. He then conducted us to Pastor Blumhardt, who received us
affectionately ; he is the inspector of an institution for training young
men as missionaries to Africa, particularly to Senegal. We were in
troduced to seven of these youths. Spittler also went with Cornelius,
Martin and me, to see the Baroness Krudener. We were accompa
nied by a very interesting man who speaks French well ; his name is
Emanuel Schnell; he has retired from business, and devotes himself to
the care of the poor, and to Bible concerns. We passed over the
bridge, and went out at the gate which leads to Crenzach, about two
or three miles off, where the Baroness has a temporary residence in a
poor little house. We found her taking tea, or coffee, in a small room,
with a bed in it. There were present three men and three women,
'besides our party; one an interesting looking man, a counsellor of
state, with his wife ; another, a young man of very agreeable manners,
who wore a ' black cross suspended from his neck ; and the third, an
older man, who, I was informed, was one of her followers: the last
named person had, that morning, preached to three or four thousand
persons in the open air.
The Baroness was dressed in white, with a plain cap ; she is an'
elderly person, rather tall and thin, has a good deal of vivacity of man
ner, spoke French fluently, and talked to us standing. She said she
felt more happiness in that poor place, than she had enjoyed while
surrounded with grandeur ; that, if we were -doing the Lord's work it
mattered little where we were ; that the present were no common times,
but, that the Almighty had a great work in the earth ; that there had
been a great number of conversions, especially amongst the poor, but
many also amongst the rich : that we had nothing to do, but to come to
Christ in sincerity of heart, and be anything, or nothing, as lie pleases.
She said the work of religion consists in prayer and silence. On
being asked, I think by Martin, whether she intended to go to Paris
again, she said she knew nothing about it, that she was in the hand of
the Lord, and at his disposal.
She mentioned that some had attributed to her the Holy Alliance,*
* A copy iB preserved amongst William Allen's MSS., of the manifesto which announces
what has been denominated the " Holy Alliance," published at Petersburg, under date,
« January 10th, 1816," which expresses the determination of the Emperor Alexander, and

1816. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 211
but that it was a-great mistake, for it was the Lord only who had in
spired it. She holds meetings, every evening, for prayer, which are
crowded ; she speaks with much energy ; and I should have had more
conversation with her, if there had not been so many present.
Spittler said that she gave away almost all her income to the poor,
but that it was done without sufficient discrimination ; that this place
being on the frontier of three states, many foreign poor came to it ; and
that the war had caused much distress.
Ninth Month 1st. — First-day. We had a very precious meeting in
our chamber, in which I was much refreshed and comforted. E. R.
was engaged sweetly in supplication, and E. F. expressed a few words
of encouragement afterwards : in the very room where we sat, Bona
parte, in the year 1801, dined and lodged, and received a deputation
from the place. I took a walk with E. Schnell, and saw the ruins of
a fortress, which was erected about one hundred and twenty years ago,
by Louis XIV., contrary to his promise and engagement : from this
place, in 1814, the French threw bombs into Basle. The fortress is
now completely demolished, as are, also, the great square, and the
place of worship ; the whole forming a striking picture of desolation.
After our return we had our reading, succeeded by a time of silence,
m which E. R. ministered to us ; our friend Schnell then took an
affectionate leave of us.
Ninth Month 2nd. — Started at eight o'clock; met Spittler, who
parted from us in much love. — Proceeded to Hoffwyl, the residence of
Count Fellenberg; it is a large house, or chateau, on the left Of the
road. I sent In the letter from Dr. Marcet, introducing me ; we were
shown into a neat room, which Fellenberg soon entered ; there was
something in his countenance and manner, indicative of great mental
power, openness of character, and benignity ; I soon found him a most
interesting man; we had much conversation upon the subject of edu
cating the poor. He has the charge .of about sixty children; six or
seven of- them are the sons of German Princes ; and the parents of
others are persons of considerable rank and property ; but Fellenberg
^boards and educates about twenty-five of the children, for whom he
receives nothing but the produce of their labour. The pupils all ap
peared healthy ; Fellenberg treats them as his own children ; I noticed
they spoke to him without any appearance of awe or restraint."
that of his allies the Emperor of Austria, and the King of Prussia, to " endeavour to regu
late their future conduct by the precepts of the Gospel." It also declares their conviction,
"that the christian nation, of which they and their people form a part, has, in reality, no
other sovereign than Him to whom alone power really belongs, God, our Divine Saviour.
They therefore recommend to their people,- with the most tender solicitude, as the sole
means of enjoying that peace, which alone is durable, to strengthen themselves every day,
more and more, iri the principles, and in the exercise of the duties, which the Divine
Saviour has taught mankind."

212 8 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1816.
Our travellers thence proceeded to Berne, and, on the 6th of Ninth
Month, to Yverden ; here W. A. sayst-
" I went with Cornelius and Martin to deliver my letter of introduc
tion to Professor Pestalozzi ; he saluted me with two kisses, one on
each cheek : he is a lively old man, rather below the middle stature,
and thin ; some of the pupils were examined in our presence, solving,
by mental calculation, a variety of difficult questions in algebraic equa
tions, &c.
It is pleasant to see the terms upon which the pupils live with Pes
talozzi and the tutors, — a spirit of harmony seems to pervade the whole
establishment. I took an affectionate leave of the old man, who again
saluted me three times at parting ; I was much pleased with my visit."
After leaving Yverden, passing through a most picturesque country,
with fine views of the lakes of Neufchatel and Geneva, W. A. and his
party reached Lausanne ; and on the next morning, 8th of Ninth Month,
first-day, W. A. speaks of his dear wife as being very poorly, and he
adds, " we held our little meeting to comfort." As they travelled on
to Geneva, the state of the road induced them frequently to walk ; W.
A. remarks—
" My dear Charlotte preferred doing so, yet it fatigued her much ;
and she has suffered sadly from the poor accommodation at the inns.
On reaching Geneva, my dear friend Professor Pictet came to meet us,
and did everything which friendship could suggest to promote our com
fort ; 'dear Charlotte seemed very far from well.
Ninth Month 9th. — My dear Charlotte is very poorly, and I am very
anxious ; she was, however, able in the evening to continue a letter of
considerable length, which she had commenced some days before,
addressed to a friend in England. v
10th. — I did not notice any thing remarkable until this morning,
when, on awaking, I inquired of my dear wife how she had rested ,- she
described her feelings as being very distressing, and mentioned an
apprehension that she should never leave that place."
W. A. was, as he expresses it, " plunged into inexpressible anguish."
On this very day, however, his beloved wife was able to enter, in her
own private journal, the following remarks, which the -editors of this
work now transcribe from the original.
" I have felt poorly and sinking for several days, and now, this 10th
day of Ninth Month, feel as if I must take leave of all here. What a
trying dispensation! but it is the Lord's will. What will become of
my precious husband, dear Cornelius, and the two females?  may the
Shepherd of Israel keep and preserve them!
C. A."
This dear friend survived the attack of illness about three weeks. A
great degree of pressure on the brain soon deprived her of mental

1816". OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 213
power ; she appeared to suffer much pain, but was unable to describe
it. When the fatal disease was at its height, her afflicted husband pen
ned the following lines : —
"In the depth of my grief, I have prayed, with many tears, that He
who knows the tender feelings of the minds he has created, would
pardon my excessive sorrow, and give us strength to acquiesce in his
holy will."
On the 28th, he speaks of his dear afflicted companion as " evidently
sinking, but tranquil," and adds —
" It was quite plain to dear Cornelius and me, that all ground of
hope was taken away. We gave her wine and nourishment, but her
breathing became shorter, yet she did not appear to suffer at all. My
feelings are not to be described — I knelt down by the bed-side, and,
in a low tone, poured out my supplications that her precious spirit might
be received into everlasting rest, and that we might be preserved. Her
countenance became heavenly, giving evidence that she had done with
the troubles of time ; and she quietly breathed her last without the least
struggle or motion. Oh, the serenity of that blessed countenance ! in
our agonies we felt that it was well with her. I believe my reason would
be quite overset, were it not for a little divine support."
The remains of Charlotte Allen were interred on the 3rd of Tenth
Month, in the cemetery of Sacconet. Several kind and sympathizing
friends united with the bereaved husband and nephew, C. Hanbury, in
paying this last sad tribute of affection. W. A. says —
"The pause at the ground was very solemn, and on parting with
the remains of all that was dearest to me in life, I had strength to say
audibly, ' Thy will, 0 Lord, be done !' "
From their kind friends, John Walker and wife, and from Professor
Pictet and his excellent daughter, M. A. Verhet, W. A. received, during
a month of deep affliction, the most assiduous and affectionate attentions.
Of the latter he says —
"She is like a sister; never shall I forget her kindness and sym
pathy." A short time before the decease of Charlotte Allen, E. Robson and
E. Fry,. accompanied by F. Martin, had proceeded towards the South
of France, and on the 4th of Tenth Month, W. Allen and C. Hanbury
quitted Geneva, and commenced their sorrowful journey homeward.
They arrived at Palais on the 17th of Tenth Month, and on the 18th
crossed to Dover, where his dear brothers Samuel and Joseph had
gone to meet him, also the wife of the latter. Whilst at this place,
W. A. writes —
" My loss is so great, that nothing, can afford me comfort, except
some feeling of divine support. A measure of this was mercifully ex
tended whilst I was on the sea. These words being sweetly impressed

214 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1816.
upon my mind, ' Fear not, for I am with thee, be not dismayed, for I
am thy God.' "
They reached home on the 20th of the Tenth Month, where W. A.
says —
" I found my dear mother, daughter, and sister, with whom I had a
truly affecting meeting. After tea we had a religious opportunity, in
which, I trust, a precious degree of divine good overshadowed us, and
I was almost ready to exclaim, ' When thou shuttest, none can open ;
and when thou openest, none can shut. Where the sceptre of thy love
is stretched forth, even such a one as I, who scarcely dares to call him
self thy servant, is emboldened to present his petition, that thou wouldst
give him strength to bear his afflictions in a manner well pleasing to
thee ; to sanctify them, and make them the means of establishing him
more firmly on the alone sure foundation.'
My beloved mother addressed me with the words of consolation, and
afterwards dear Joseph was sweetly engaged in prayer. This was
somewhat confirming and strengthening' to my tempest-tossed soul."
During the succeeding week he received visits of condolence from
several of his friends, and on some of these occasions was favoured fo
partake of a measure of divine consolation, in the review of which, at
the close of a week, he makes the following memorandum : —
" What an unspeakable mercy it is that I can never, for a moment,
contemplate the dearest one I have lost, but as a glorified spirit ! Oh,
may I be permitted to follow in the Lord's due time, and have my lot
with her for ever ! Oh, Shepherd of Israel, gather me and mine into
thy fold, and preserve us to the end !*
* Soon after his return home, William Allen received, from many of his friends, the
written expression of that sympathy which they could not personally manifest. Most of
those who thus addressed him, have, like him, been removed from this mortal scene. There
is something so peculiarly impressive in the experience and language of departed piety,
that a few extracts from these letters may be suitably introduced
FROM THE LATE JOSEPH GURNEY.
" Lakenham, Eleventh Month Zrd, 1816.
" I have been kept back from writing to thee from the consideration of the many friends
thou hast, who would be expressing their sympathy j which, though not perhaps strictly
troublesome, is sometimes trying to the depressed mind, which seeks its help in stillness
and retirement ; in that I hope thou mayest have found it, however low thou mayest be,
and that it may have been good that thou hast been afflicted ; for when the current runs
pretty smoothly, however active the pursuit, and however laudable its end, a check will
discover to us, more clearly than hitherto, where the heart hath been ; and, as we are pre
served in tenderness of spirit, we shall, even in affliction, approach that desirable state, in
every thing to give thanks." FROM THE LATE RACHEL FOWLER.
" Melksham, 28th of Tenth Month, 1816.
" If, for a few minutes, I venture to intrude on thy attention, I trust thou wilt believe
that affectionate sympathy alone prompts me to attempt telling thee, that my dear R. F.
and myself feel ourselves amongst the list of thy numerous and sincerely interested friends.

1816. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 215
Tenth Month 22nd — Several friends called upon me, and evinced
tender sympathy ; particularly dear Joseph Foster and Rebecca Christy ;
the latter was sweetly engaged in supplication, and afterwards had to
pour in the oil and wine of consolation, in a very remarkable manner,
exhorting me to give up to the pointings of duty, even though the
sacrifice might be as bitter as death.
Tenth Month 23rd. — Attended our meeting ; endured much conflict
for some time, but, at length, a calm succeeded."
In his weekly review, W. A. says —
" I have, at times, been a little comforted with what I thought, and
verily believed, to be all-sustaining help.
26th  At meeting, was favoured with a sense of the divine presence ;
dear E. J. Fry was there, and was made the minister of consolation to
me ; but, oh ! I am afraid to go back into the world, and its lawful
engagements, and have prayed that I might rather be taken out of it
now, than suffered to do any thing contrary to the divine will. I am
much tried with the prospects of the lectures, and would cheerfully
give them up, if I could see it was right to do so.
Tenth Month 21th. — First-day. I was encouraged in meeting to
hope that I was still under the Lord's notice for good. At supper I
We have felt thankful in hearing that thou hast been mercifully sustained, in the hour of
very deep extremity, by the All-wise and Unslumbering Shepherd of Israel, and we doubt
not, that the same everlasting arm will condescend to support, in every conflict that may
yet be permitted, through the remaining part of a weary pilgrimage. I believe the power
of redeeming love, which has been conspicuously the guide of thy youth, and the support
,,of thy advancing years, will continue sensibly to sustain to the end.
I feel for the loss which our little Society has experienced, in the removal of one who
was, I think it maybe truly said, a preacher of righteousness from early life. I have highly
valued the honoured dead, whose humility and piety were 'exemplary to all, and to me in
structive beyond most ; and I can say that, though dead she ' yet speaketh,' and her memory
, is blessed." FROM THE LATE WILLIAM WILBERFORCE. " London, November 21th, 1816.
"MyDea»Sih,
" Ever since I heard of the afflictive visitation, with which it had pleased God to try you,
I have been thinking pf writing to assure you of my, friendly recollection in your season of
sorrow; but it was not till.lately that I heard you. were returned to England, and I will con
fess that I have always shrunk back, either from a hasty call, or a hasty letter, on a subject
of so deeply serious and affecting a nature, which has appeared too sacred to be approached
irreverently. For this reason, or rather under the impression of these emotions, Lshould
not have liked to call on you when I was the other day in the city, even though I had not
been, as I was, extremely pressed for time.
My dear Sir, may the same gracious hand, which has inflicted the stroke, support you
under it ; nay more, may he render it conducive to your benefit. Blessed be God ! even to
a wound like yours, Christianity can supply a healing balm, of tried and never-failing effi
cacy, to all those who, (as I doubt not is your case,) are warranted to use it, by- the assur
ance it gives us, that, to the object of our affections, the change has been gain unspeakable.
I am, with cordial esteem and regard, my dear friend, ever your's sincerely,
W. WlXBEKFORCE."

216 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1816.
was sweetly visited with those divine consolations in the secret of my
soul, which I value beyond alL price, and was broken and contrited
with. tears. I am one wreek nearer the end of my weary pilgrimage;
nature suffers most acutely; but I trust that, at times, divine grace
supports. Eleventh Month 5th. — Gave a lecture at the Hospital to a large
audience ; unusually long plaudits ; it was deeply trying ; but I went
through it as a duty.
6th. — Monthly Meeting. — Very satisfactory. Dear Joseph Foster
afterwards called on me.
8th. — Lecture on Experimental Philosophy."
The following is W. A.'s weekly review : —
" Though favoured, at times, with a little precious feeling of that
which my soul longs to centre in for ever, yet I am very often cruelly
buffeted and cast down, and strong fears assail me, that I shall never
hold out to the end. The loss of my dearest Charlotte, with whom I
Was united in the strongest bonds of affection, — the remembrance of
her love, and her unremitting attention -to my comforts, even in 'the
most minute particular, the sweetness and humility of her spirit, the
religious firmness of her mind, all — all rise up before me, and make
the separation bitter indeed. I ought, however, to number.it amongst
my greatest mercies, that my precious and only child has long' given,
and still gives me, the strongest reason to believe, that she is one of the
lambs of the Heavenly Shepherd. May all our spirits be united in him
for ever !
11th. — Had a conference with Thomas Christy, Josiah Forster, and
Luke Howard, on the state of Friends, at Pyrmont and Minden. Re
ceived a preeious letter from dear Stephen Grellet, dated Port an Prince,
Domingo ; by which it appears that a wide door has opened to him, in
Petion's part of the Island, for proclaiming his gospel message : he is
anxious that schoolmasters should be sent out without delay.
Eleventh Month 14th. — E. Robson and E. Fry are returned from
the continent, having been favoured to get through their visit in France
to their satisfaction. J. Foster and Baron Strandman called to confer
about the four lads from Russia, who are sent by that -government to
learn the new system of education. I have given three lectures at the
Hospital this week : it has been deeply trying to my feelings.
11th. — First-day. At meeting very low and poor ; but a little com
forted by the communication of dear Elizabeth J. Fry, reminding us of
the query, ' Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?' and expressing her
sense that many present did love their Lord, and that, if, they were
faithful, they would be commissioned to feed his lambs. It was a short
but very precious communication.
Weekly review. — I have earnestly begged for best direction, with

1816. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 217
respect to getting rid of some engagements, which press heavily upon
me, but can see no clear light upon it yet. I have put off the evening
lectures as long as I can, but they are now fixed for the 26th. Great
distress prevails in Spitalfields among the poor ; and, indeed, generally
over the country ; the prospect is gloomy.
19th.. — I wrote to James Cropper about African concerns, in reply
to a very important letter-from him, on the state of the colony at Sierra
Leone. 25th. — Very low ; I watered my pillow, as usual, with my tears ;
and prayed fervently to be preserved from offending my great and good
Master, in thought, word, or deed, and to be kept to the end.
26th, — The lectures at the Hospital were never, before, so crowded ;
many could not get in. I felt it hard, indeed, to be obliged to exert
myself under such circumstances of grevious depression.
21th — Fourth-day. Meeting for worship, to comfort, also that of
Ministers and Elders ; all public movements, in religious matters, if
right, must be under the immediate influence of the Holy Spirit, even
as the prophets of old were enabled to perform the divine will, as ex
pressed by Nehemiah, 'the good hand of my God being upon me.'
Baron Strandman, and the four Russian lads, afterwards called on me;
also dear Joseph Foster.
Review of fhe week.— At a meeting, on first-day morning, I was
very low and contrited ; dear E. J. Fry engaged in supplication first,
and afterwards in ministry, in power and demonstration. My earnest
prayer has been — 'Either take me out of this world, in thy favour, or
preserve me in it to thy glory.'
Twelfth Month 2nd  Second-day. I attended the Bible committee,
at Earl Street, on account of a proposition, from the printing commit
tee, which did not appear to me just to Tilling and Hughes; a long
debate ensued, but it terminated to my complete satisfaction; whilst
there, it was rumoured by whispers, that there were riots in the city,
and that .the shops were shut up;* — this proved to be true ; a man was
shot in the riot. A committee, in the afternoon, on the epistles to
Minden and Pyrmont. Received, from John Harman, one hundred
pounds, for invested school subscription.
3rd.— Lectures, now, both morning and evening ; theatre crowded.
5th. — Attended the committee of the British and Foreign School
Society, to my satisfaction.
1th. — Had to go to the west end of the town to see Count Lieven,
Baron Fagel, and N. Vansittart.
12th. — Attended the general meeting of the British and Foreign
School Society, at the Freemasons' Tavern ; the Duke of Sussex in the
chair ; it went off well.
* This occurred in connection with a political meeting at Spa Fields.

218 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1816.
Weekly review  The lectures are a great weight upon me, and take
up much time ; yet I get through them satisfactorily, and I understand
that the pupils are greatly, pleased. Very low, under a sense of my
irreparable loss. I long for more of the Lord's power and. presence.
This alone can fill and satisfy the immortal part.
11th  Attended with Joseph Foster on school concerns.
Twelfth Month 19th.— With Karslake about the Duke of Kent's
business. — Lectures through the week as usual.
21tk  Received from the Duke of Bedford a kind letter, express
ing his sympathy with me, enclosing one hundred pounds for the in
vested school subscription.
28th. — Attended'the committee of the African Institution. Impor
tant communication from Sir Alexander Johnston, at Ceylon, stating
that they had there agreed, that every child born after the 12th of the
Eighth Month, 1816, should be free.
Week'js review. — It now appears clear that the invested subscription
for the school concern will be accomplished. I may derive encourage
ment, when I look back at the gloomy prospect which we had years
ago, when my mind, being sorely distressed, became comforted by a
repeated inward assurance that the hand of the Lord was in the wrork.
If dear Joseph, Fox could have seen this day, he would have rejoiced.
Chemical lectures finished; none on experimental philosophy this
week, on account of the Quarterly Meeting.
30th. — Received to-day another donation of one hundred pounds
from J. Harford for the invested subscription of the school society.
Attended Savings' Bank, and committee on juvenile depredators.
31st  Wrote to the. Duke of Sussex an account of the invested
subscription. The year which has now closed has been singularly awful to me. In
it I have lost my precious Charlotte, who was the balm of my life, my
comfort and support under all my trials and labours for the good of
others. In this year also, I have lost my dear fellow-labourer in the
great cause of the education of the poor, Joseph Fox ; and here am I
left behind ; yet truly, I must acknowledge that the Almighty hath been
good to his poor afflicted servant. Lord, preserve me !"
The correspondence which W. Allen notices with the Duke of Bed
ford, and, two days later, with the Duke of Sussex, appears to merit
insertion. The letters are transcribed from the handwriting of these noble patrons
of the School Society. That from the Duke of Sussex is the more
striking, -as it proves that, on this, the last night of the year, short as
was the time alloted to rest, it was rendered yet more brief by the
deep interest which this excellent Prince cherished in the great cause '
of educating the poor.

1816. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 219
His comments on the losses which the society had, from such widely
differing circumstances, sustained, in reference to Fox and Lancaster,
evince a truly generous and feeling heart.
TO WILLIAM ALLEN, ESQ.
"Hamilton Place, December 27th, 1816.
"Dear Sir,
On my arrival in town last evening, I found your letter of the 24th
instant, with its enclosures, and am much obliged to you for the trouble
you have taken in explaining the causes of my not having received any
intimation of the last meeting of the British and Foreign School So
ciety. I may sincerely condole with you on the, afflictive domestic
loss you have sustained, and, whilst I regret the shock which your
spirits have received from such a calamity, I cannot but feel much
satisfaction that your zeal in the great cause of education appears to
have suffered no diminution.
Most anxiously do I hope that the invested subscription may be filled
by the close, of the year ; and, to contribute my assistance towards so
desirable an end, I have now the pleasure to send you a draft on my
bankers, as a second subscription to that fund.
I remain, dear Sir, with perfect esteem, your faithful servant, Bedford.
P.S. — May I beg of you to write me a line directed to Woburn
Abbey, as to the success of the subscription at the end of the year."
TO THE DUKE OF BEDFORD.
"London, 29th of Twelfth Month, 1816.
" Thy esteemed favour, enclosing a second donation of one hundred
pounds to the invested fund of the British and Foreign School Society,
came to hand, and the money is paid in to the bankers. Thy kind
letter, and this additional mark of the strong interest thou continuest to
take in this important business, will greatly cheer and animate the com
mittee, and I am now happy- to say that the generosity of our friends
has secured the great object: most of the money is actually paid in,
and the remaining four or five hundred is promised, and will, most
likely, come in during to-morrow and next day.
It must be a source of great gratification to thy liberal mind, to re
flect that, in the ordering of Divine Providence, thou shouldest be the
first of the British nobility to appreciate the value of a plan which is
bestowing so many substantial blessings upon our country and the
world ; to have nursed it in its infancy ; to have superintended it in its
growth, and finally to have witnessed its complete success.
The plan seems to have excited attention, even at Madrid ; and we
are informed that the Duke d'Infantado is desirous of knowing the de
tails of it; we shall, of course, endeavour to improve the opening

220 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1816.
whenever iLoccurs, for no nation under heaven has greater need of in
struction than Spain.
Before my journey to the continent, I was closely engaged in getting
the manual ready for publication, and took about thirty copies with
me ; these have excited a great sensation, and we shall doubtless have
gratifying intelligence from some parts of Germany, before long.
I remain, thine, very respectfully,
William Allen."
TO THE DUKE OF SUSSEX.
"London, 31st of Twelfth Month, 1816.
"Divine Providence has been pleased to crown the cause which has
been so nobly patronized and supported by thy Royal brother and thy
self, with the most complete success.
The invested subscription of ten thousand pounds for the British and
Foreign School Society, is not only raised, but we shall have a surplus
of two or three hundred pounds towards the new school room, which
we hope to get completely ready, and every thing in activity, in our
new mansion, before the next general meeting in the month called
May, which will be one of uncommon interest. The work prospers in
all directions, and the only regret we now feel is, that poor' Lancaster
is in such a disposition of mind that he cannot harmonize with his best
and tried friends, nor can they have any thing to say to him, until he
gives unequivocal proof of a change of heart, for he would have ruined
the whole concern, and some of those engaged in it, if great firmness,
under trying circumstances, had not been displayed.
I have said the only regret, not because I did not recollect my en
deared friend, our late worthy secretary, Joseph FoX, but because I
have the most unshaken confidence that his happiness, in seeing the
accomplishment of that object in which he made such large sacrifices,
could not be so great as that which he now enjoys.
If, at any time, thou wouldst wish to know how We are going on,
and wouldst be pleased, through thy secretary, to give me notice of it;
I would wait upon thee with pleasure.
I remain, very respectfully, thine sincerely,
William Allen."
REPLY TO THE FOREGOING.
"Friend Allen,
At the close of a very eventful year, I received your most welcome
letter of last night. It did indeed convey balm to my soul. And as
one's hopes are raised by a happy combination of events, I could not,
after returning my humble thanks to Providence for all his great mer
cies, help exclaiming that the year had turned out more fortunate than
we mortals were inclined to hope. You, my good friend, who have so

1816. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 221
diligently worked in the vineyard, and have likewise had your severe
trials, this last year which has just closed upon us, will also rejoice in
the full accomplishment of the second great work which you have un
dertaken, and for which you have, with such admirable constancy,
laboured for so many years.
Happy indeed would it have been for us, could we have enjoyed our
harvest in the company of our departed and excellent friend, Fox.
Still, I believe his modesty would have kept him back on this occasion,
had his friends not pushed him forward — therefore it is better for him
that he is gone, where, I trust, we may all go, if we endeavour to dis
charge, to the best of our faculties, those duties imposed upon us. It
is this hope which consoles us, in some measure, for the loss of a valu
able friend : indeed, as an equal, one must consider the demise of a
friend a personal loss, as nothing can replace him ; and my friend Fox,
might, perhaps, have his equal, but his superior most decidedly not.
What we are to do to replace him, without your assistance and advice,
I know not.
As for Joseph Lancaster, I will not begin the year by -abusing him ;
indeed every cause is a bad one where it is necessary to call in such
aid ; but thus far I must add, that great as his sins have been, and
ever mustbe acknowledged, the smiles of flattery were too bewitching
for him, and he has unfortunately become a slave at the shrine of that
seducer. Should matters change, I never will refuse shaking hands with him;
but I must be" first satisfied that the heart has ever remained pure, and
that his imagination only was bewildered and intoxicated.
Excuse this hasty scrawl — it is now half-past five, and I am just set
ting off for Windsor, to be present at my mother's breakfast.
May every happiness attend you, and may Providence continue to
prosper our great undertaking, is the sincere prayer of your well-
wisher and friend, Augustus Frederick."
Kensington Palace,
January 1, 1817."

CHAPTER VIII.
1817. — African Concerns — Correspondence on Schools at Hayti — Juvenile Depredators —
Wurtemberg Emigrants — Subscription for them — Lectures — Letter to Petion — Visits
France — Schools — Lectures — Death of Princess Charlotte.
" First Month 1st, 1817. — -The last year has been a time of almost
overwhelming affliction ; what the present will be must be left to
infinite wisdom, and infinite mercy. I still continue to trust in my

222 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1817.
God ; I have np hope of consolation but through the spirit of Christ
Jesus. My dear mother has been much confined to her chamber this
winter ; she is weak in body, but strong in the truth, and a great com
fort to me. In public affairs peace is still maintained, but there is
great distress amongst Jhe poor universally, not without disposition to
riots. Things are not going on well in France.
3rd  Meeting for Sufferings. A long discussion about Friends of
Pyrmont, and a committee appointed to attend to their concerns.
5th. — First-day. The meeting was to me a strengthening time, I
thought we were owned by the great Master. E. Robson spoke in
the ministry -very acceptably, and it comforted my heart. , E. J. Fry
excellent in supplication."
William Allen enters, in his review of the week, the following
memorandum : —
" If the Lord, would but condescend to purify me, thoroughly, and
manifest his will 'with clearness, I think, at times, I could jrive up< all
to follow him; but O, the hardness and corruption of the human heart!
who can know it? I have made considerable progress in a rough copy
of a little MS. on worship, &c.
9th. — Attended the peace committee at J. Clarkson's ; thence went
to Paul's Head Tavern to that of the .school society, which proved one
of the most important we have ever had. A communication from the
Spanish Government was read, requesting assistance to establish the
plan in Spain.
Weekly review. — Very low in the fore part of the week ; my natural
affections recurring so strongly to my prec: ous lost companion ; but, I
should not say lost, I trust she is only gone a little before. In a visit
on seventh-day, I endeavoured to encourage a young man to attend
meetings for worship. If our hearts were sufficiently set on the hea
venly country, where we shall all be glad to, arrive at last, the recur
rence of meeting days would be joyous to us. ' Where your treasure
is, there will your heart be also.' If we endeavour strenuously to pre
vent the wandering of our imaginations in meetings, and avoid following
up a train of worldly thoughts, striving incessantly to bring our minds
back to the great object of worship ; a meeting thus spent, even in
conflict, will not be unprofitable. I believe we" are never more accept
able to the Divine Being, than when in a state of conflict, we endea
vour to hold fast our confidence.
First Month 13th.— Second-day. At the Morning Meeting of Min
isters and Elders, I felt the overshadowing of divine good ; E. Robson
and E. Fry gave an account of their journey : it was a tendering season
to me.
14th  Went by water to- Whitehall : saw the Chancellor of the Ex-

1817. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 223
chequer on the subject of the African rice ; he advises our presenting
a memorial to the Board of Trade. I had afterwards a conference with
J. Clarkson-about the Peace Society.
Evening lecture at the Hospital about steam engines, &c.
19th. — First-day. — Forenoon meeting. Low and dull at the com
mencement, but towards the close I was comforted in the revival of
these words, < Fear not, for thou shalt be found in thy lot, at the end
of the days.'
I have deeply felt the importance of endeavouring, with all our
might, that the thoughts of our hearts may be always acceptable to Him
who sees in secret, but this is a high attainment ; may I not be too
much discouraged by my frequent failures, but press on towards the
mark, crying mightily for help, to that Divine Being, from whom only
it can come.
I have now, under consideration, the providing of rice and cotton
mills for Sierra Leone.
First Month 20th. — Went to the Borough Road school, and to
Maudsley's, about the rice mills, &c.
21st. — Attended the committee on Hayti; concluded to send P.
Bosworth to Petion.
22nd. — Received letters from Hayti, announcing the safe arrival of
Gulliver.* * About this time, a letter was received by Thomas Clarkson, from Henry Christophe,
King of Hayti, which contains so satisfactory an evidence of the great blessing conferred
on that Island, through the instrumentality of the young- men who had been sent out by the
Borough Road School Committee, that an extract from it may be suitably introduced. —
William Allen having been specially engaged in promoting this good work.
THE KING TO THOMAS CLARKSON, &C. &C.
" Palace qf Sans Souci, Oct. 18, 1816, thirteenth year of Independence.
" Sir, my Friend,
I have read and meditated upon the contents of your letter of the 5th of August, with
all the attention of' which I am capable.
I am sensibly touched by the great interest which you take in the cause of the Africans
and their descendants — in the prosperity of Hayti, and in my personal reputation, and
therefore I will' reply to. you with the frankness and sincerity, which the relation in which
we stand to each other requires; and I hope that you will thus become acquainted with my
character and motives, as I think I am with your's, and with those of my other estimable
friends. Entirely devoted to my project, of establishing public instruction, of extending moral
principles as widely as possible, and of concurring with the noble and generous views of
our friends, I have welcomed with gratitude the masters and professors whom they have
sent out to me. As soon as Messrs. Gulliver and Sanders arrived here, I fixed them in the
metropolis, and have procured them scholars, whom they instruct upon the plan of Lancas
ter. I am astonished at the effects of this new system, and at the premature intelligence
which it developes in the pupils. In fact, I consider the sending of these masters as the
greatest benefit my friends could have conferred upon me.
Mr. Evans, the teacher of drawing and painting, is established at Sans Souci, and his
school is also opened.

224 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1817.
24th. — Over African concerns. I received a letter from George Sin
clair, with much valuable information respecting the treatment of the
poor, hospitals, &c, on the continent. At dinner we had the company
of Baron Strandman, Dr. Hamel, the four Russian youths, Sultan Katta-
Gary-Crimgary, with Mornay, &c, &c. We spent a very interesting
afternoon, conversing with them about the Bible Society, schools, &c.
Weekly review  Low and tried ; yet I trust feeling something of the
sustaining power of divine goodness. Oh, may I ever be preserved
from pride of all sorts, but especially spiritual pride. — I give lectures at
the Hospital twice every week..
Second Month 3rd  I went up to Lord Sidmouth about juvenile
depredators, accompanied by S. Hoare, W. Crawford, and Peter Bed
ford. 5th. — Fourth-day; at meeting, much broken under a feeling of divine
good. 1th. — Sixth-day morning; while1 in bed, and putting up my supplica
tions as usual, I was favoured with a degree of divine sweetness ; and
afterwards at the Meeting for Sufferings, I had peacerin making a few
remarks on the disposition of mind in which the business of the meeting
ought to be conducted."
The lectures at the Hospital continued to be given twice in the week.-
On the 8th, W. A. says—
"I made some additions to my MS. on worship, &c. ; cleaned my
circular instrument, and settled my observatory. — Sent ,the following
letter to William Wilberforce :
TO WILLIAM WILBERFORCE. " London, 8th qf Second Month, 1817.
" My dear Friend,
On my return "from the continent, I was informed of the kind part
thou hadst taken in assisting our committee of the British and Foreign
School Society, to comply with fhe wish of the King of Hayti, by send
ing out two schoolmasters to establish the British system there, viz.,
Gulliver and Daniel. I heard that the first was got off, though I since
learn with some difficulty, but that Daniel, being too late for the ship,
was obliged to wait for the next opportunity. We have received official
I trust that my friends will send out other masters and professors for the supply of the
royal college, and to enable me to extend the benefits of education to every town in the
kingdom. I am too desirous of meriting the kindness and esteem which have been shown me, not
to make every effort in my power to secure the approbation of my friends.
I beg of you to watch over the interests of the Africans, our brethren, and of the Haytians,
theirdescendants, with your usual care, zeal and humanity. Youi who Tiave so long been
the champion of this noble cause, cannot be indifferent to my solicitations. ~ '
Believe me, Sir, with the greatest respect and the most cordial friendship, HENRy."

1817. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 225
accounts from Hayti, not only of the safe arrival of Gulliver, but of the
satisfaction which the King has expressed with him and the plan, ac
companied with a request to our committee to send out more masters ;
and, as I know there was one or more packets for thee, I have been
every day expecting a few lines from thee, just to say how the financial
part of the business had been arranged.
I must say that I rather depended upon thee to give us some informa
tion of the sailing of a vessel to Cape Henry, whereby we might have
sent Daniel after his companion. I heard, by accident, of the Sprightly ;
we had only a few hours notiee, but made the best use of them, and
got Daniel off; but judge of my surprise, when we were informed by
the owner, that Mr. Wilberforce had spoken for a passage for a school
master ; and at a committee, which was held this evening, it appeared
that his name was Sweet, and that he was sent by the National Society.
Now, as we had incurred no small expense in keeping Daniel until an
opportunity should offer for conveying him to Domingo, the members
of our committee expressed much surprise.
I went, on the day before yesterday, to Kensington, on purpose to
see thee, but could not learn from the servants where thou wast to be
found ; and I was equally unsuccessful at Hatchard's. The business
will be fully explained to Christophe, but I am afraid that he will begin
to suspect that his new friends are not acting in concert with each other ;
I have, however, great confidence in his good sense, he having shown,
in the instance of Prince Sanders, that he does not want penetration,
and knows how to discriminate.
Daniel will do us and the plan credit, and is a host in himself; but
from the shortness of the notice, and the time that I lost in endeavour
ing to find thee, the poor fellow has fewer comforts than he would
otherwise have had ; but I trust that he will experience divine support
through and under all.
Our committee are in high spirits ; the good work prospers in every
direction — which is cause of humble thankfulness.
I remain, thy affectionate friend,
William Allen."
" Second Month 26th. — Lwent with Joseph Foster to Millar's, to
meet the sub-committee on Haytian affairs.
21ih. — Had a very interesting conference with Baron Fagel, the
ambassador from Holland; I have, through him, an open door for
communication to all parts of the Dutch territories.
Third Month 6th — Attended the committees on peace and capital
punishments ; the latter was an important meeting : several resolutions
were passed, which I hope will put us into complete activity.
10th. — At the Morning Meeting my MS. was read, criticised, and
corrected ; but at length got through, and may now be printed with the
Vol. I. 15

226 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1817.
sanction of the society. It is entitled « Brief Remarks on the Carnal
and Spiritual State of Man,' &c. In the evening finished a-letter to
the Duke of Kent."
From this letter to the Duke of Kent, then on the continent, the
following are some extracts : — " London, 2nd of Third Month (March), 1817.
" Esteemed Friend,
I trust thou knowest my disposition too well, to attribute the plain
ness of this address to any other cause than an adherence to my religious
principles, and wilt not suspect me of assuming too great a degree of
familiarity, in consequence of the kind notice with which I have been
hitherto favoured..
I have long wished to write, but I have been partly-prevented by
the heavy affliction which Divine. Providence has permitted to come
upon me, and partly by a fear of -being intrusive ; the latter impediment
has been removed, by a paragraph in one of thy letters to Rae Wilson,
a very zealous friend to our school concerns ; and, knowing that he
was in the habit of writing to thee, I have furnished him, from time to
time, with such information as I thought would prove acceptable ; but,
in the present instance, I can trust no one with the expression of some
sentiments, which, nothing but a sense of duty, and affectionate attach
ment to thee, Would have compelled me to hazard. The Duke of
Kent knows that I have never courted his notice from any interested
view ; indeed, it is only in order to be more extensively useful to my
country, and to mankind, that I wish to be known to those in the higher
ranks of society.
Since my return, I have inquired anxiously into the state of those
arrangements, which are so admirably calculated to remove all those
embarrassments, that must have pressed heavily upon thy mind, and
which we all so deeply deplore ; and I was delighted to find that they
were operating to our utmost wishes.
It is not only of consequence to complete this great work, but to
complete it in the shortest possible time, because fhe absence of so
powerful a patron from the Country, is an injury to those works of
benevolence, which distinguish England among the surrounding nations;
and any interruption to the plan would put off that day, so honourable
to the Duke, and so gratifying to all his real friends, when he shall have
discharged all his engagements, and be in full possession of all his
revenues; and that by a wise disposition of his own resources."
William Allen here proceeds to touch upon some other important
and delicate questions, most intimately connected with the happiness
and welfare of the Duke; and after very modestly, but earnestly offer
ing some suggestions for the consideration of the illustrious person
whom he addressed, he alludes to the progress of the education of the
poor, as follows :—

1817. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 227
» I had an interview with the Baron Fagel a few days ago, and laid
before him the deplorable state of public education in Belgium, stating
that the Duke of Kent, our patron, was perfectly acquainted with the
details of this subject ; and from his zeal in the cause, and the benevo
lence of his character, would, I had no doubt, if applied to, take pleasure
in assisting the government of the Netherlands in a work so near his
heart. The Southwark Auxiliary has been making great progress ; three
members of the committee have been with me to-day, to request that I
would be present at the laying of the first stone of their first school, on
the 14th instant; if this succeed, as there'is every prospect that it will,
I have no doubt but that the plan of school associations will go through
the metropolis.
The whole, I firmly believe, is the work of Divine Providence ; but
the friends of their country, and of humanity in general, must ever be
grateful to thy honoured and illustrious father, to thee, and to the
Duke of Sussex, for that uniform and steady support, which has been
the chief means of bringing this most important business to so tri
umphant a state!
I shall carefully proceed with collecting and arranging materials for
fhe brief history of the rise, progress, and present state of our great
cause ; I purpose to send it over for thy remarks, previous to any part
of it being printed.
I must now repeat the earnest hope that nothing which I have said
may give offence to the Duke of Kent, and I am sure it would not if
he knew my heart, and with what sincerity and attachment I subscribe
myself his faithful and respectful friend, William Allen."
The Duke of Kent addressed to William Allen a reply to the fore
going letter, dated " Brussels, 5th of May, 1817," from which the
following are extracts : —
Esteemed Friend,
"I received your's of the 2nd of the month this day, by which I was
happy to learn that mine of the 16th of March, with its enclosure, had
reached you in safety. Our mutual friend Rae Wilson has, as you
justly observe, kept me fully acquainted with all matters going forward
for the benefit of fhe British and Foreign School Society at home, and
I have been extremely gratified by the details he has favoured me with.
It would have been exceedingly satisfactory to me, had it been in
your power to have attended the last meeting of my committee at
Karslake's, knowing the sincerity of your heart, and your attachment
to me. I am happy to find that you are perfectly convinced of my ad
herence to the spirit of my original agreement, and I will venture to say
that- nothing shall divert me from it. Indeed, when every three months

228 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1817-
I have the satisfaction of seeing between four and five thousand pounds
wiped off, no other stimulus can be wanting to induce me to go on,
even if I were not bound by that most sacred of all ties, a promise to
my friends. Upon the other point, to which you have so delicately
alluded, I shall only say that I trust Providence will direct my proceed
ings for the best, and that I shall never deviate from the line which I
conscientiously believe it is my duty to pursue.
With respect to the propagation of our liberal plan of education in
this country, I can certainly not hesitate in saying to you that I believe
there never was one where it was more wanted; and I think your
proposition of writing to Baron Fagel, is calculated to feel the pulse of
those who are well affected. I think, therefore, the offer in your letter
should be made to the Baron, to afford the government every facility
towards the introduction of the plan. With regard to Malta, the case
is perfectly clear: Bell's system cannot do with the Catholics, and
government are unwilling openly to countenance our's. To do any
•thing there, the Earl of Bathurst is the person that must be gained;'
and it is so- essential a point to -carry, that you should try to get at his
Lordship/ I trust there can be no doubt of the Duke of Sussex attending the
meeting of the 13th, to support our friend the Duke of Bedford in the
chair ; and you may depend upon it, a letter, such as you >wish ad
dressed to my noble friend, shall go by the present occasion, ami most
happy shall I be if the production of it at the meeting is attended with
any beneficial effects.
I take my leave by repeating the unalterable sentiments of friendship
and regard, with which I remain, esteemed friend, yours most faithfully,
" Edward."
Third Month 12th. — Went up to Count Lieven, then to Kennington,
to see Heard, who is training by order of Count Romanzoff, for a teacher
in Russia.
14th. — Went up with T. Clarksori, to Vansittart's; we presented to
him the memorial from the merchants in London, also our own memo
rial, on the subject of African produce. The first stone of our new
school, in Southwark, was this day laid by the Mayor, in the presence
of about four thousand people.
Review of last week, — low and depressed ; have had humbling
thoughts of my own insignificance and inability to do any good thing of
myself. 18th.— Went with T. Clarkson and G. Harrison to the African In
stitution ; the Duke of Gloucester was there ; Macaulay and others
debated much about Hatchard's case. I proposed a committee to take
charge of the rice mill. One was accordingly appointed.
21st.— Met Count Lieven, by appointment, at the Borough Road, to

1817. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 229
attend the examination of the four Russian lads ; they performed ex
tremely well.
22nd. — Dr. Hamel, and Dr. Paterson who has done so much good
in the Bible cause in Russia, dined with me; the latter is disposed to
exert himself about schools.
A person named John Gottfried Banzhoff, from near Stutgard, in the
King of Wurtemberg's dominions, is come to London, as the represen
tative of the society of Separatists, who, on account of persecution, are,
to the number of about three hundred, emigrating to America.
24th. — : After attending a Committee of the school society, I went with
Joseph Foster to the Borough Road, to meet the Spanish Ambassador,
Fernando Nunez, who appeared much pleased with the school, and
strongly expressed his gratitude for the attention bestowed upon Cap
tain Kearney, who is qualifying himself to establish the system in Spain."
In the review of the week W. A. says —
" Some consolation at meeting on fourth-day. W. Forster, Jun. and
E. J. Fry are about to make a religious -visit to the members of our
Monthly Meeting, and Rebecca Christy is likely to join them in it.
This is a cause of humble thankfulness to my mind.
My morning lectures closed on fifth-day ; the concluding evening
one, to be given on third-day next, hangs heavy oa my mind ; I am
oppressed with too many things upon me, which produce a kind of
irritability. Third Month 25th. — I gave my twenty-fourth lecture of this course,
being the concluding one. I took occasion to speak on the attributes
of the Deity, and hope it was useful to some.
26th. — W. Crawford, P. Bedford, and Sultan Katagary dined with
me, after which we went together to inspect the new penitentiary, Mill-
bank ; we met E. J. Fry there, with several other women Friends ;
every thing seemed to be in capital order, but the expense is enormous.
31st  Sent off a letter to WUberforce ; the following is a copy : —
TO WILLIAM WILBERFORCE.
" My dear Friend,
" Although I hope to have the pleasure of seeing thee to-morrow at
the African Institution, yet, as it is sometimes difficult to get an oppor
tunity for much conversation at Jermyn Street, I shall just briefly state
two or three things to which I wish to beg thy attention. •
A gentleman of the name of J. Hook, who is a respectable merchant
at Senegal, wrote me a very interesting letter on the subject of Africa,
which I submitted to thy perusal more than a year ago. I have just
received another letter from him, enclosing one which, at his desire, I
have forwarded to Earl Bathurst ; the purport of which, I understand,
is to solicit the office of British consul at Senegal ; should our govern-

230 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1817.
ment determine upon such a measure. Now, with respect to the thing
itself, it appears to me most desirable that a strict watch should be kept
up in that quarter, for I fear, from the accounts which I have received
from Africa, that preparations are making for an extensive Slave Trade
from Senegal.
The following is an extract from a letter dated Feb. 7th, 1817.
'Senegal and Goree have been just surrendered to the French, and
some of our troops from thence have arrived here ; one of the officers
informed me that the merchant vessels arrived from France are all
fitted for carrying off slaves ; whether English men-of-war are to be
allowed to seize them, I suppose will be a question, as I have heard-' of
no treaty to that effect ; but if they are not seized, an immense Slave
Trade will soon be opened, and incalculable mischief follow.'
Now, if we had a person like Hook stationed there, who is a warm
friend to our cause, and I rather think a religious character, a great point
would be gained. '
If, happily, the French should turn their attention to the improvement
of Africa, we might suggest many useful hints to them through such a
person. If thou shouldst see the thing in the same point of view, perhaps
thou wouldst either write or speak to Earl Bathurst.
I do think that the Board of the African Institution should interest
itself warmly in every thing which promises to promote the civilization
of Africa, and I hope thou hast had an opportunity of impressing the
Chancellor of the Exchequer with fhe importance of acceding to the
petition with regard to the duties on African produce.
In hopes of seeing thee to-morrow, L remain thy respectful and affec
tionate friend,
William Allen."
" Plough Court,
Zist of Third Month, 1817."
"Met Sultan Katagary at the Borough Road; afterwards went to
Maudsley's, thence to the African Institution ; then to Basil Montagu's,
Bedford Square, where we had a sub-committee on capital punishments.
Wrote the following letter to Earl Darnley ;
'Esteemed Friend,
* ' Permit me, on behalf of the British and Foreign School Society, to
beg thy kind attention to the accompanying document, respecting
Malta, which I should be glad to receive again when it is done with.
I have corresponded with the Duke of Kent on the subject, who, were
it not for political considerations, would immediately write to the go
vernor, but it is suggested, that, from thy intimacy with Earl Lauderdale,
who, I believe, is a relation of the governor's, the business might be

1817. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 231
brought before him in such a way as to claim his attention, and secure
his patronage ; it seems that a subscription could easily be made to
support the school. Our committee would furnish a competent master,
and there being a model school at Malta, the system might soon be
expected to spread through the Levant. The object is one of very
considerable importance ; thy sentiments upon it as early as convenient
wjll much oblige thine very respectfully,
William Allen.'
« Plough Court, Lombard Street, Zist of Third Month, 1817.'
Fourth Month 2nd. — I have been much tried with grievous dOubt-
ings and fears ; I feel myself as nothing, and am deeply convinced that
none can rightly say that Jesus Christ is Lord, but by the Holy Ghost."
In the succeeding week W. A. attended various committees as
usual, and in the review of it he says —
" I must record, with thankfulness, that, however unworthy of divine
regard, yet it has been graciously manifested, both on the occasion of
the visit of our friends E, J. F., R. C, and W. F., and on the day
following ; my faith has been greatly strengthened, and I have been
enabled to offer up all that may be called for.
Fifth Month 13th. — Attended the anniversary of the British and
Foreign School Society, at the Freemasons' Hall. It was a very large
meeting, and went off admirably.
Sent off a letter to Petion* of Hayti.
* The following is a copy of the letter referred to : —
TO ALEXANDER PETION, PORT AU PRINCE, HAYTI.
"London, Sih of Fourth Month (April), 1817.
" Esteemed Friend,
"Having now, for the space of thirty years, been a public and private advocate of the
cause of the oppressed Africans, I felt an uncommon degree of interest in the account sent
me by my beloved friend S. Grellet, of his visit to thy dominions, and of the kind and cordial
reception which thou wast pleased to give him^ this, I confess, has given me an additional
incitement to do all in my power to serve thee and thy people, in any way in which I can
consistently do it. The friends to the Abolition of the Slave Trade have, for a long time
past, steadily fixed their eyes upon Hayti, with the anxious hope that she may exhibit a
grand example to the whole world, of what African intellect is capable of when unrestrained,
' and they are firmly convinced that, if you do but preserve peace among yourselves, you will
have little to fear from the French, or any other foreign enemy ; but if your country once
becomes a prey to civil war, the French will probably quickly possess themselves of it.
May heaven avert such a catastrophe !
¦ Thinking it might be agreeable . to thee to trace the steps by which Divine Providence
was pleased to bring about that great measure, the Abolition of the Slave Trade, I have to
request thy acceptance of the history of it, written by my dear and intimate friend Thomas
Clarkson, who laboured more ardently in this good work than any other person, during a
long course of years, and who, down to the present moment, feels the most lively interest
in the happiness of the African race. I have also sent some of the Reports of the African
Institution,, of which I am one of the directors, and, if I find that they are acceptable to thee,
I purpose to forward our last report when it is printed, indeed, I should be glad to send
thee any information of what is doing in this part of the world, which thou might'st deem
useful to thy country.

232 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1817.
Fifth Month 14th. — Two dear Friends from America, Hannah Field
and Elizabeth Barker, attended our meeting. I did not know of their
arrival in London until I saw them on this occasion.
Fifth Month 11th.— At the invitation of E. J. Fry, I saw the prisoners
at Newgate ; the plan of this dear friend seems to me to be sanctioned
from above. I ventured to address them at parting, and when I got
back to Newington, had peace in it. What a favour ! My faith also
was strengthened, and I was renewedly made to feel that the soul-
agonizing trial, which has been permitted to attend me, was not in
judgment, but for great and gracious purposes, yet oh, how bitter!"
The following week was mostly occupied in attending the Yearly
Meeting ; at the close of it W. A. remarks —
" The precious power of truth has attended the sittings. I made one
I take an active part in several public institutions, but more especially in those for the
education of the poorest of the people, because, I consider that in all countries, the poor
form the great mass, and that not only their happiness, but the happiness and- security of
the state, depends, in a great degree, upon the prevalence of moral and virtuous habits
among them. It is only of late years that the public mind in this country has become fully
impressed with the importance of educating the poor universally, but we are now making
rapid advances in this great work; and, by means of our British and Foreign School Society,
are promoting it in all the four quarters of the world. My friend Stephen Grellet will have
informed thee that our method is calculated to educate large numbers at a Very small ex
pense, because only one master is required for a school of four or five hundred children,
(and we have many such schools in England,) one book serves a whole school, and the
economy is brought to such perfection, that the cost of each child for a year does not, in a
large school, exceed four or five shillings, at least, it need not ; in our schools we have no
catechisms or any thing peculiar to any sect or party, and therefore we receive the children
of all religious denominations, but we teach the Bible, which we consider as the source of
tbe purest moral and religious instruction.
My friend Grellet having informed me of thy wish to form schools upon this plan,, I laid
the matter before the committee of the British and Foreign School Society, of which I- am
treasurer, and they concluded to send thee one of our best masters, well qualified to form
and manage a large school, under thy own inspection, which, while it would serve as a model
for others in every part of thy dominions, might be made a central establishment for training
masters for other schools. The young man's name is Thomas Bosworth, he bears an ex
cellent character, and is highly respected by all who know him. His zeal for the cause, and
his desire to benefit the people of Hayti, has led him to relinquish a very eligible situation
as master of a large school upon the plan in this country, and the committee of his school
were only prevailed upon to give him up from our representations of the use he might be of,
to thee and thy people ; we are all persuaded that if education becomes general in thy
country, that your strength will be doubled.
We consign this young man to thy kind protection and care, in the fullest confidence that
he will meet with every encouragement from thee which he may appear to merit, and that
thou wilt not object to reimburse our committee for the mere expense of his passage ; and
if, upon consideration, thou shouldst deem it necessary to have another suoh person from
us, we know of one wishing to go, and who is exceedingly well qualified.
Ihave desired T- Bosworth to" request thy acceptance of a set of our reports, and be
assured, that if, in thy opinion, I can be of the smallest "use to thee, either by transmitting
information, or in any other manner, I shall feel a sincere pleasure-in doing it.
I remain, with great esteem and respect, thine sincerely, William Allen."
" Plough Court, Lombard Street, London."

1817. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 233
or two slips, yet, on the whole, had peace in the retrospect of the
meeting ; but felt that I ought to be on my guard against creaturely
activity. The meeting for worship, on sixth-day, was uncommonly solemn and
confirming ; I thought I could have knelt down and given thanks at
the conclusion; but was afraid that I was not sufficiently purified;
sometimes I feel great self-abasement, and yet, at other times, when tried,
it is quite plain that there is still much of self left; how deceitful is the
human heart."
In the review of the following week, W. A. writes —
"The Yearly Meeting closed on sixth-day evening, the 30th inst.,
with a short but heavenly pause. The two dear friends from America,
H. Field and E. Barker, being about to pay a religious visit to some
parts of the continent of Europe, it is proposed that I should accom
pany them ; I shrink much from it ; but apprehend it is my duty closely
to consider the proposition.
Sixth Month 2nd.- — It appears to rest on my mind as a duty to give
up to go to the south of France. Dear Thomas Clarkson is staying
with me ; he and I are very busy over Sierra Leone affairs.
3rd. — Wrote letters to Sierra Leone, also one to dear Stephen Grellet
about the Wurfemberg people, authorizing him to draw on me for three
hundred pounds, which Friends here have subscribed for them.
4th. — Attended the opening of the new schools in the Borough Road ;
the Duke of Sussex was there, also the American minister, with Pro
fessor Prevot ; it was a fine sight and went off very well. I was filled
with humble thankfulness at our success. In the evening I had a
conference with dear R. Christy relative to our prospectsrin the south
of France.
5th  -I went to Islington, to attend the opening of the first school
on the association plan, for the north-east district of London ; it was a
grand and very satisfactory meeting. Afterwards, I went to see my
dear mother ; she encourages my going with H. Field and E. Barker
to the continent. Having an opportunity of sending out a packet to
Sierra Leone, I availed myself of it, to address a letter to Governor
Macarthy, in which I brought before him divers subjects, connected
with the welfare of that colony, particularly agriculture, the preparation
of rice, &c. ; I also wrote to the ' Friendly Society,' which I fear is not
going on well. I sent letters to seven of the settlers."
In the review of the foregoing week, W. A. writes —
" It has appeared to be my duty to go to the south of France, if the
Meeting for Sufferings-see fit to make the appointment. My dear sisters
in the unchangeable truth, E. J. Fry, and R. Christy, were led into
deep sympathy with me in reference to this matter. When the subject
was opened at the Meeting for Sufferings, my mind was covered with a

234 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1817.
degree of sweetness, and I believe it was pretty generally felt in the
meeting. After I retired to bed on sixth-day night, my mind was sweetly
visited with a degree of the life-giving presence of the dear Master,
which seemed as a precious seal to the dedication of the day; and per
haps it may be useful to recur to this in the course of the arduous un
dertaking. I have faith to believe that, if the fault is not my own, the
Lord will carry me through my part of it, whether in doing or in suffer
ing, in such a manner as to bring peace in the close of it.
Sixth Month 9th. — Second-day. At the Morning Meeting, a MS.
was read, of the life of Jane Pearson deceased, which contains some
very excellent matter ; she was a woman who had passed through
singular trials and conflicts, both inwardly and outwardly ; I was
unusually affected by it, and could not assist my dear brother in the
reading. Attended the committee about Friends in Norway, at three p. m. at
Devonshire House, and at five, one at Plough Court, on juvenile
depredators. Fourth-day. The meeting, at the commencement, was dull, but bright
ened up on a lively communication from E. J. Fry ; the Select Meeting
afterwards — a precious time.
Sixth Month 12th.— Went to the school committee at twelve ; after
wards to that on capital punishment ; Professor Prevot and Lord Nugent
dined with us.
13^.— Procured a carriage for our journey — met juvenile depreda
tors' committee — attended to a variety of orders from Sierra Leone —
went to Maudsley's^ about the rice mills, and to Sir John Jackson, in
company with Joseph Foster, about J. Lancaster.
Sir R. D. Phillips has become Lancaster's partisan ; we cannot take
him again into the school concern consistently with the safety of the
great cause ; yet, notwithstanding the vile abuse which he has publicly
heaped upon me, I can freely forgive him, and am quite willing to con
tribute towards his support.
Dr. Hamel, of Russia, and John Paterson who is going to Peters
burg, dined with me; I afterwards wrote to Wyse and Buckle, of
Sierra Leone ; also to T. Ledeboer, of Rotterdam ; to Baron Von Slinger
land, at fhe Hague, and Baron Scheremberg, of Utrecht, on various
subjects connected with the welfare of mankind, particularly on prison
discipline, the treatment of the insane, on peace, &c. I had, also,
several other letters to write to Holland. The pressure of engagements,
on thus clearing out from home, has been heavy indeed.
20th.— On the sixth-day evening I had a solemn parting opportunity
with T. and, R. Christy ; ¦ dear Mary was present ; our' minds were
strengthened and comforted together. R. Christy addressed us sweetly,

1817. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 235
and supplicated, and I was enabled to express my sense of a fresh
feeling of that love which is both ancient and new, and my confidence
in best help.
21st. — This morning I had an affecting parting with my dear sister
Anna Hanbury, on my setting out with our beloved friends H. Field and
E. Baker, Josiah Forster, appointed by the Meeting for Sufferings, and
my nephew Daniel Hanbury, with my beloved Mary, whom I believe
it right to take with me; George ,Majolier, who is- returning home to
his parents, also goes with us. We reached Dover in the evening ;
attended the meetings there next day.
23rd. — On second-day we went on board the Countess of Elgin
packet ; had a fine passage of about four hours to Calais."
Here, after taking tea, seeing their carriage and the luggage brought
on shore, &c, W. A. says —
"Josiah and I took a walk with the women Friends round the
ramparts ; we saw eight. Russian ships of the line, a frigate and a sloop
waiting to convey five thousand -Russian troops home to their own
country ; this looks well, as it shows a confidence in the preservation
of tranquillity.
Sixth Month 24th  All our party well tfiis morning ; my mind is
calm and peaceful."
Our travellers proceeded to Paris, where they arrived, on the 26th.
W. A. continues —
"21th.- — We were engaged to-day in delivering letters, making
calls, &c. I visited the Abbe Gaultier, and found him as hearty in the
school cause as ever; he wishes for a plan adapted to small schools. I
think the Hibernian and Gaelic will answer well. The Abbe intro
duced me to the Baron di Girando, a very interesting man. I am sorry
to find' that Count-Xasteyrie has, by his politics, diminished his useful
ness in the school committee. The Abbe also took us to their girls'
school in the Halle au Drap, which was given to them by government,
a fine, large, light room, capable of holding four hundred and eighty
girls. Some ladies visit it. We found there a counsellor of state,
named Pastorets, with his wife. The Count de Montmorenci is also
much interested in this school.
After dinner, we hired two fiacres, and all our company visited the
Jardin des Plantes : our American friends were much pleased with the
stuffed animals, &C. On coming home we passed the place where the
Bastile formerly stood ; the great ditch is still left on one side ; a low
stone wall rises from the water, and beyond it a sloping high one ; we
saw the remains of one of the dungeons, and, the other parts of the fosse
are filled up ; and on the place where the Bastile stood, is a long range
of elegant stone buildings, designed by Bonaparte as a granary, for the
supply of Paris ; close by this is a temporary house, containing the

236 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1817.
model of .the intended elephant, through the body of which, it was pro
posed to supply the city with water ; it was designed to be seventy- five
feet high, and above forty feet long.
Sixth Month 28th. — Josiah and I were employed in putting up
packets of tracts, for different persons, each containing Penn's Rise and
Progress, Devoir's de la Religion, Martin's Letter to Voltaire, Penn's
Maxims, Barclay, Benezet, Clarkson on Abolition, Peace Tracts,
Prison Tracts, Manual, Reports, Philanthropist, Pensees, and Brief
Remarks. After tea we went to the top of Montmartre ; it was a beautiful sun
set, and the view of Paris from it, lying as at our feet, was truly grand,
and, as they burn only wood, nothing obstructs our having a. clear sight
of the whole : on the north-east «de of Montmartre are the gypsum
quarries, which they were burning for plaster of Paris : all the houses
of Paris, as far as I could see,,were built of stone ; looking to the right,
the gilded dome of L'hopital des Invalides is a striking object;^ still
more to the right, in the distance, is St. Cloud, the residence of the
King; before us the two towers of Notre Dame; the view altogether
was very fine."
Our travellers obtained interviews with several serious persons ; but
the way did not open for any opportunities for worship, except for their
own small party on first-day, the 29th. In reference to this occasion,
W. A. says —
" My mind was a good deal depressed on sitting down in our little
meeting this morning; but after patiently waiting on the Lord, I was
sweetly comforted and strengthened, so that tears of joy and gratitude
flowed freely. Dear H. Field and E, Barker spoke very encouragingly,
and I felt a liberty to- express my sense of the favour we had received,
and the comfortable evidence vouchsafed of the divine presence ; re
peating the text, ' They durst not ask him, who art thou ? knowing it
was the Lord.? Paris is indeed a dark place."
In the evening, a pious man called upon them who had been engaged
in distributing many Bibles and Testaments, in and around the city ;
he informed them that it was very difficult to get the Scriptures circu
lated there, in consequence of the prejudices of the Catholics. Third-
day, the 30th, they left Paris. W. A. writes—
" As we rode along, Josiah. read to us from the Psalms ; my mind
was favoured with a fresh and sweet sense of divine regard, which
remained for a considerable time."
On arriving at Fontainbleau, he remarks —
" We dined here ; this is a large place ; very quiet, and few persons
to be seen. This was the favourite hunting seat of Henry IV. of France ;
and also of Bonaparte, who signed his abdication in the palace here,
which we visited. It is very; splendid, and covers a great deal of

1817.. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 237
ground. The apartments are magnificent ; several of them hung with
Gobelin tapestry. There are most beautiful vases of Sevres porcelain ;
a table also of the same excellent workmanship."
They reached Lyons on the 4th of Seventh Month. Here W. A.
visited several public institutions, the. Foundling Hospital, also an
establishment where four hundred aged persons were comfortably main
tained. They had the satisfaction of becoming acquainted with a pious
young man named Touchant, who, W. A. says —
" Confirmed what I had before heard of the difficulty of forming any
association, either for the distribution of Bibles, the formation of schools,
or for any other good thing; the'minds of the people are very unsettled
on political grounds ; the clergy are dominant, and object even to Du
Saci's translation, because he was a Jansenist, consequently by the
Papists considered a heretic. Touchant says, ' If the protestants were
to establish a school, the catholics would not send their children to it,
and there is little chance of their commencing one themselves, as it
would be immediately opposed by the friars.'
We visited Camille Jourdan at his country seat ; he received us very
kindly; and wre had much interesting and important conversation.
We also called on Claude Julien Bredin ; he was a pious protestant
of the reformed religion.
Seventh Month 6th. — We held our meeting at our room, at the hotel,
to our solid comfort. Our friends Touchant and Bredin took tea with
us, and being serious persons, we had a good deal of religious conver
sation; afterwards H. Field prayed; she was followed by E. Barker,
in the same solemn engagement; there was something precious to be
felt ; when we had sat a-little longer E. B. addressed our visitors, H. F.
added a few sentences, Josiah For'ster interpreting. Afterwards the
latter entered into some explanation of our principles ; our visitors were
throughout very serious and appeared well satisfied. We gave them a
number of books, for which they expressed themselves very grateful,
and I think we had cause to be thankful for this interesting opportunity.
We were surprised at receiving information ' that Josiah had run a
risk of being arrested to-day, in consequence of wearing a red carnation
in his button-hole ; it appears that within the last ten days several persons
have been taken up for wearing red pinks in their coats."
From Lyons the travellers proceeded pretty directly to Congenies,
which they reached on the 10th of Seventh Month. On arriving there,
W. A. remarks —
"I was very low in spirits, having, as we rode along, dwelt much
on my great loss of my precious Charlotte. I was glad to get into a
room by myself, after having spoken to a few of the friends. Louis
Majolier and his wife had met us on the road to welcome their son ;

238 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1817.
his return *jto his relations, after an absence of two years, was a source
of great joy."
W. A. remarks that they visited all the friends of Congenies, and
those in its vicinity in their families, and had many opportunities of
meeting them in public. On some of these occasions, he alludes to the
valuable services of H. Field and E. Barker, which Josiah Forster
interpreted acceptably.
" Whilst passing from one of the neighbouring villages to another,
Daniel Hanbury announced that my dear friend F. Martin was coming
on horseback to us; he was soon by the coach side; we mutually
rejoiced to see one another ; though my mind was deeply affected- by a
crowd of recollections which poured in upon me, of the awful circum
stances under which we last parted at Geneva. I find dear Martin has
exerted himself strenuously in the school cause ; and in this part of the
country there is indeed an ample field. I went with him to visit his
uncle, who is an apothecary of the name of Bossiere, who has vaccinated
five thousand persons gratuitously, for which he has received a large
gold medal from the King, and one thousand francs. Martin is about
to leave this district, and enter upon the office of pastor at Bordeaux. I
think E. P. Frossard should return from England and succeed Martin
in his labours in the school cause, in this part of the country."
On returning to Congenies, they had a religious opportunity with a
family of Friends, who came from the country to meet them. In refer
ence to this occasion, W. A. enters the following memorandum : —
" I said something, though in much, fear, weakness, and discourage
ment ; I expressed what opened in my mind, and expected to go far
ther, but not feeling the life with it, I stopped short and had peace ;
dear H. F. enlarged upon it afterwards, much to my encouragement.
I ardently desire to be preserved from- getting into a-habit of speaking
on divine things, without the fresh feeling of that power without which
it is all but as 'the sounding brass and the tinkling cymbal.' After
dinner,. Josiah and I had a private conference with two Friends, one
of whom had imbibed a prejudice against the other ; this matter is more
grievous to me than all we have to get through besides. After tea I
took a solitary walk, and wept much in thinking of my precious Char
lotte. About seven o'clock we attended their usual meeting; our
beloved friend E. B. was prevented attending by indisposition. Dear
H. Field was much favoured in ministry. I was sweetly comforted,
but said nothing."
In passing through Vauvert, a small town in the vicinity, where they
halted for a few minutes, he notices—
"Many friendly people came about us, and H. F. had something to
say to them standing, which J. F. interpreted ; and they seemed
affected with it.

1817. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 239
I felt a "great flow of love to these kind people, and believe that their
hearts are open to receive anything which may be communicated, under
right influence. %
Returning through this place, two days afterwards, whilst the horses
were taken out to bait, we were welcomed as before, by a number of
friendly persons; and, among the rest, by a young man training for a
minister. A great number of very tender people soon crowded into the room,
and we settled down and had a very sweet and solemn meeting with
them; love flowed towards them so freely in my heart, that if I had not
been afraid to trust myself, on account of the language,- 1 should have
addressed them, -and believe it would have been better, if I had attempted
it: dear H. Field, however, commenced with the very subject which
was upon my mind, and was much favoured with best help in her com
munication. E. Barker afterwards spoke ; the dear people seemed
reached and affected, and I was thankful for the opportunity ; surely
the fields are white unto harvest."
Allusion has been made to an unhappy prejudice, which had existed
in the minds of a few individuals towards each other. On the 22nd of
Seventh Month, W. A. writes —
" This affair is such a burden on my mind, that I cannot hope for
any good until it is removed ; for I clearly see that unless-this be ac
complished, it is vain to endeavour to build them up."
The journal continues —
" In the evening we met the friends concerned ; my anxiety was
great for the re-establishment of harmony. I requested that we might
have a pause before entering on the investigation of the matter, that we
might seek that divine help in which alone our strength consists. After
some time dear H. Field spoke excellently. Josiah interpreted. I was
pressed in spirit in, much, affection to address them. Josiah and E.
Barker also spoke very suitably. We endeavoured to convince them
of the importance of burying in oblivion, all that had caused any disunity
amongst them. ^ I think that on no/iccasion, since we came from home,
have we so sensibly felt the presence of our Lord as at this time.
After a good deal more had passed, we had a hope that they were
disposed to a reconciliation ; at length, the parties embraced each
other with tears, and we separated under a precious covering of love.
It is the Lord's doing alone, for without his gracious assistance, we
could have accomplished nothing ; whether the fruits will be perma
nent or not must be left, but we are clear, having done what we could ;
and it has, unquestionably, been a time of renewed divine visitation to
the Eriends of this part."
Before the travellers quitted Congenies, their fellow professors of that
vicinity were assisted by them in more perfectly arranging their system

240 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1817.
of church discipline ; overseers were appointed to watch over the flock ;
the school was reorganized ; some interesting youths were appointed
as teachers to the different classes; pecuniary assistance was given,
by which the women Friends were enabled more' efficiently to pursue
their occupation of spinning; and facilities afforded for the fuller em
ployment of the men, particularly in the winter season. After thus
labouring diligently for the spiritual and temporal welfare of the little
settlement of Friends in that part of the world, they parted from them
in much love, and W. A. remarks —
"Many tears were shed by these poor affectionate people;" he
adds, " L. and M. Majolier have agreed to let their little daughter
Christine go with us to England."
On the 25th of Seventh Month fhey proceeded to Montpelier ; here
they met with some serious persons, inspected the prison, also a large
establishment for beggars ; and became acquainted with an excellent
young man, Pasteur Lissignol, of whom W- Allen says —
" He is full of zeal and energy, but draws a gloomy pieture of the
state of the protestants. in these parts ; says they are numerous, but
much engrossed by the things of this world, its profits and pleasures,
that they will give their money freely for balls, feasts, and spectacles,
but that it is scarcely possible to get anything from them for works of
public utility. He is anxious to establish a school here on our system,
and believes that what dear Martin has done at Hypolite will react very
powerfully. Seventh Month 21th  First-day. We held our little meeting this
forenoon, and were favoured with a sweet' and consoling evidence of
the divine presence, which seemed as a seal to our recent labours.
After supper Peter Grellet, brother to dear Stephen, called to see us ;
he is in a respectable public situation in this department.
Took a walk in the evening in the Jardin des Plantes."
The next day they proceeded towards Bordeaux, which they reached
on the 4th, and were kindly welcomed by the aged Pasteur" Martin,
president of the protestant consistory, who rendered them every assist
ance in his power during their stay of. two days at that place, after
which they pursued their journey, arriving on the 12th of Eighth
Month, at Versailles, where they visited the palace, the, gardens,
library, and the grand and petit Trianon, the former built of Languedoc
marble, by Louis XIV., for Madame de Maintenon, an ambitious
woman, and the tool of the Jesuits in the persecution of the Port Roy
alists, and the good Fenelon, and Guyon. The splendid ;vases of
Malachite, and Sevre Porcelain, with the gorgeous tapestry of the Go
belins, particularly attracted William Allen Vattention ; also a beautiful
pint cup of lapis lazuli, and over one of the mantle-pieces, a group of
figures in bas-relief, exquisitely cut in agate. In the evening they pro-

1817. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 241
ceeded to Paris. On the 13th they visited the Jardin des Plantes, in
that city, where W. A. remarks —
" We saw every thing to great advantage, the day being beautifully
fine. The scientific names of the beasts are attached to their apart
ments, which are very roomy; and the botanical student has every
facility as the plants are all labelled. I suppose there is not in the
whole world, anything to equal this garden. I have had the satisfac
tion of becoming acquainted with Count Lasteyrie ; he is a truly benevo
lent man, uniting with the Abbe Gaultier and others, in promoting
education amongst the poor. On the 14th I was introduced by Count
Lasteyrie to Professor Arago, the assistant astronomer at the Royal
Observatory." In reference to the visit to this interesting establishment, W. A.
enumerates, a variety of telescopes and other optical instruments which
much attracted his attention. They became acquainted with the Abbe
Gregoire, who was much interested in the abolition of slavery ; also,
with Charles Grellet, another brother of his beloved friend Stephen.
They visited the hospital, called the Salpetrier, and on first-day, 17th,
he notes —
" We held our little meeting for worship, to our comfort and spiriual
refreshment, and in the afternoon, we had an opportunity of serious
conversation with the Abbe Gaultier and Count Lasteyrie, who gave
me the satisfactory information that the French government has recently
sent down orders for the establishment of schools on our plan, in each
of the departments."
The travellers left Paris the next morning, proceeding to Calais, at
which place they embarked for Dover; here W. A., his daughter, and
D. Hanbury, with little Christine Majolier, parted from their beloved
friends, H. Field and E. Barker, and set off for London, where they
arrived in the evening of the 24th of Eighth Month, —
" Finding," says W. A., " my dear sister, Anna Hanbury, in usual
health, and every thing at home apparently well, which is cause for
reverent thankfulness.
We have been absent nine weeks ; the reading in the evening was in
the Psalms; it was a solemn time to me, and I felt sweet peace."
During the following week, W. A. mentions various calls from his
friends, his taking observations in his observatory, cleaning his instru
ments, posting his books, &c. ; at the close of it, on first-day, the 31st,
he makes the following entry : —
" On my return from my long journey, in which my dear child and
I have travelled by land and water nearly two thousand miles, I find
every thing at home apparently in order and going on well ; for wliich,
and for our preservation, and that of our dear companions, I desire to
cherish reverent gratitude. I have felt much peace in this little act of
Vol. I. 16

242 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1817.
faith and dedication, and have, at times, been ready to say, Lord ! it
is enough ; continue to preserve me and mine to the end ; yet nature
feels deeply the privation of her sweet society, who loved me ardently,
and whom, it was my constant delight to render happy — but oh ! my
dearest Charlotte, I have the firm conviction that thou art safe, whate'er
becomes of me !
Ninth Month 1st. — Second-day. Visited by Dr. Hamel, of Peters
burg. Lam glad to find that our school cause is going on favourably
in Spain. The -Manual is translated into their language, and a school
about to be opened at Madrid. Dear H. Field and E. Barker are
arrived at the Old Jewry. Third-day they dined with us. Fourth-
day, they attended our meeting, in which we were mutually comforted.
On fifth-day we parted from them for a season.
1th. — Review of the week. For some days past I have had very little
feeling of good, but have been humbled under a sense of my own
weaknesses and imperfections : wash me and make me clean has been
my prayer ; the religion of Jesus requires purity of heart. It is not
enough, that the outward conduct be irreproachable or even applauded
by men ; the thoughts of our hearts ought, continually, to be acceptable
to Him, who sees in secret. I have received a letter from T.. Bosworth,
who is safely arrived at Port au Prince, and kindly received by Petion,
and the whole of the Island of Hayti is now provided with teachers on
our school plan.
11th  Fifth-day. Attended the committee, at the Borough Road,
also a conference with some of the partners of New Lanark. Robert
Owen is in town, and I am much distressed about him. He has
blazoned abroad his infidel principles in all the public newspapers, and
he wishes to identify me with his plans, which I have resisted in the
most positive manner ; I am resolved not to remain in the concern of
New Lanark, unless it be most narrowly and constantly watched, by
some one on whom we can thoroughly rely.
Ninth Month 13th. — Seventh-day. I had a conference with Lord
Sidmouth, and stated to him how much we held in abhorrence the
principles of Robert Owen. At the school committee, held last fifth-
day, a letter was read from Gulliver, stating that they are going on well
with the schools in Hayti.
18th. — Attended British and Foreign School committee, and gave
an account of my visit to France ; at my suggestion, the committee
agreed to advance two hundred pounds, to assist the Protestants in the
south of France, in establishing schools on our system. An interesting
letter was also read from J. Daniel, at Hayti."
In the review of the week, ending Ninth Month 20th, W. A. writes —
" Weighed down at times with the consideration of what I went
through this time last year ; yet I have felt somewhat of the sweet sus-

1817. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 243
taining influence of divine good, and a hope sometimes springs up, that
I shall yet know more of it ; so I continue to struggle on. How I long
to experience more of the cleansing, sanctifying power of the dear Re
deemer ; for, in contemplating the infinite purity of the Divine Being,
and the corruptions of my own heart, I see the absolute necessity of a
conciliating medium.
22nd. — Went to the Borough Road to meet Prince Esterhazy, the
Austrian Ambassador ; found him a very agreeable person ; he was
much pleased with the system. Wrote to dear Francis Martin; the
following is an extract from the letter: —
'London, 22nd of Ninth Month, 1817.
' My dear Friend,
I wrote to thee from Calais, directed, St. Hypolite, on the 22nd of
last month, and hoped to have had an answer before this time ; I should
be sorry indeed if the letter has miscarried, because I wish thee and
our protestant friends in the South, to be fully in possession of my
sentiments on the subject of schools for your poor. I have represented
the case to our committee, in a meeting called specially for that pur
pose, and am happy to say that I found them fully disposed to agree
to my proposition of paying Frossard' s expenses to Bordeaux, and also
allowing you, in case that the proposal I made to thee and our friends
in the South, of the establishment of an active central committee at Bor
deaux is adopted, to draw upon me, once a quarter of a year, for fifty
pounds, until you have drawn two hundred pounds in the whole ; this is
expressly for the purpose of contributing towards the expenses of tra
velling of P. E. Frossard, to promote and assist in the organization of
new schools, and to rouse the richer classes of the protestants, to sub
scribe towards the fund at Bordeaux ; he might be empowered by the
committee to receive subscriptions. I would strongly advise you to sit
down to the map of France, and mark all the places where the protest
ants are most numerous, and to plan out the first journey in a direction
where complete success is most probable, for a degree of success in
the first instance will encourage and give fresh spirits, both to him and
to the committee. Having settled the route, you should next consider
who are the persons to whom it will be useful to address letters of
recommendation, and you should especially endeavour to secure the
co-operation of the prefects and members of government; in his way
he should see all the protestant pastors, and endeavour to interest them
in the cause, and prevail upon them to advocate it, and also to distribute
copies of Count Lasteyrie's book upon education to such of their hearers
as have property and influence. Frossard might also be very useful
in his journeys in promoting the distribution of the Bible, and of little
tracts among the protestants; some of the pastors might take, and pay
for, one hundred tracts at prime cost, and afterwards find persons who

244 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1817.
might take them off their hands, without any loss to the pastor; and
the money, being remitted to Lissignol, would be again invested in
new editions, and in this way a capital of one hundred pounds might
do incalculable good. What a privilege to be placed by Divine Pro
vidence in a situation for doing such essential service to your country,
to religion, and to mankind. I need not say what rigid economy will
be necessary in conducting this great work ; but I hope that Divine
Providence will incline the hearts of those who have it in their power
to contribute the means.'
Visited by two foreigners recommended by the Abbe Gregoire, viz.
— Paul Trittel, the Abbe Directeur of the Astronomical Observatory at
Erlau in Hungary, and Augustine Scholtz of Breslau in Silesia. I ac
companied them to the school, and sent by them a manual, and one of
Count Lasteyrie's books, to Prince Esterhazy.
Conference with Frossard ; I have taken his brother Emilien into the
house for the present.
Ninth Month 25th. — Attended the committee of correspondence ; R.
D. Alexander was there and produced his new spelling book.
28th. — First-day. My spirits are very low; this being the anniver
sary of my unspeakable loss.
At meeting Ann Crowley and Rebecca Christy acceptably engaged,
the first in ministry, the latter in supplication : afterwards they took tea
here, and we had a solemn time of social worship together, in which we
seemed encircled in the arms of divine love. We were all broken
and tendered, and my old enemies — doubts and fears, were for a time
excluded. 29/A  Conference with Baron Strandman ; I took leave of him, perr
haps for the last time, as he is going to Switzerland.
30th. — Went up to Prince Esterhazy, by his request, to converse
with him on the subject of schools ; we had a most interesting conver
sation of above an hour; I explained the difference between our plan
and Bell's. The Ambassador expressed a full resolution to introduce
our system into Austria, and to send three or four lads to be instructed
at the Borough Road.
Tenth Month lsi.-^-Attended a most satisfactory committee of corre
spondence on school concerns.
4th. — Spent the afternoon and evening in my observatory ; settled
the chronometer ; took various observations with the telescope.
Review of the week. — I have been humbled under a sense of my
own insignificance and weaknesses ; feeling still the remains of self-
love. Oh ! that I may be kept in a feeling of my entire depend
ence. Tenth Month 6th. — Attended the committee of the Bible Society at
twelve : heard a very interesting letter from Leander Van Ess ; after-

1817. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 245
wards went up to Maudsley's, about the rice machine, thence went to
see the panorama of Rome.
8th  The Monthly Meeting was very satisfactory, and my mind
was kept in a tranquil watchful state, for which I was thankful.
13th. — Morning Meeting ; a solemn time ; dear E. Barker opened
her prospect of returning home. A committee was appointed to draw
up a certificate, and the meeting adjourned to receive it in the evening,
in which dear E. J. Fry was very sweet and powerful in supplication ;
my little stock of faith was increased and we had a refreshing time.
15th. — We had a solemn meeting, H. Field, E. Barker and Samuel
Alexander there. My dear Cornelius said a few words in much sweet
ness, near the close of the meeting, on that text, ' The Lord is my
Shepherd, I shall not want.' This rejoiced my heart.
20^.1 — Much indisposed ; yet went with dear Joseph Foster to Chel
sea to examine the school and training establishment there.
22nd — My continued indisposition prevents me from going to Graves-
end with dear E. Barker.
25th. — Engaged with W. H. Pepys about alkalies. Afterwards went
to Maudsley's to see the rice mill ; thence to Troughton's about Buckle's
theodolite. 26th — First-day. Daniel Wheeler with us ; my dear Cornelius
continues to speak in our meetings. May the precious child be pre
served !
21th. — Attended the meeting on juvenile depredators. A very im
portant report was drawn up by William Crawford.
30th. — Conference with Dr. Hamel, who dined with us ; also with
Francis Cunningham, on the state of the French Protestants. After
wards attended school committee of correspondence.
Eleventh Month 1st. — Wrote a number of introductory letters for
dear J. J. Gurney and party, who are going to France, and the Nether
lands. My spirits have been very low all the week, with the exception
of the meeting on fourth-day, when I seemed raised above all my cum
bers and perplexities ; my prayer is, that my faith and confidence may
never be permitted utterly to fail.
Eleventh Month 3rd. — I attended a committee on juvenile depre
dators, and afterwards that on African finance. The course of lectures
commences to-morrow, and this weighs heavily on my mind.
4th. — Began my part of the chemical lectures at the Hospital, and
attended at the African Institution where Wilberforce was in the chair ;
Brougham was present.
6th. — Heard the afflicting news of the death of the Princess Charlotte,
shortly after giving birth to a still-born son : this I consider as a national
calamity ; I feel much for the Prince, her husband, and the circumstance
has greatly depressed me.

246 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1817.
I gave my lecture at the Hospital.
1th. — Meeting for Sufferings. Conference with Josiah Forster after
wards, about Congenies, &c. ; then attended a general meeting of the
committee on juvenile depredators.
8th. — Lecture at the Hospital; thence to Greenwich observatory;
dined with  Pond ; saw a beautiful instrument for drawing eclipses ;
and had also much talk on chemistry."
At this time, and for many succeeding weeks, the lectures at the
Hospital occupied much of William Allen's time ; he delivered four
during each week. On the 13th of the present month, he mentions
attending committees on schools and the African Association, sending
out to Hayti a young man of colour as schoolmaster ; writing letters to
Sierra Leone, &c.
At the close of the week he notices the decease of Rebecca Bevan,
and adds — '
"One more added to the company of the spirits of the just made
perfect through the atonement of the Lamb of God.
11th. — Attended the Bible committee ; most of the time spent in a
debate on the propriety of accepting or rejecting thirteen thousand
pounds, offered to be raised by the Baptists for a special purpose.
19th. — Our week-day meeting very large and solemn.
The remains of the amiable and deeply lamented Princess Charlotte
are to be interred this evening. I suppose that the public sympathy
was never so strongly excited as upon this occasion ; the shops are
universally shut up, and every thing is like first-day. Friends have
believed it right to close their shops also, in the same manner that they
do when death visits their own families. ,
Eleventh Month 20th. — I wrote four letters to Sierra Leone to go by
the Preston.
21st. — Made arrangements for sending off S. S. Hydress to the Duke
of Saxe Weimar as a schoolmaster on our plan ; he takes with him
books, &c, for the Duchess Dowager about Friends' principles. I
sent a note to Prince Esterhazy about Hydress, and explained why I
did not write upon paper with black edges.
In the afternoon I attended the Congenies committee, and we agreed
to an epistle addressed to the Friends there.
25th. — Review of the week. I succeeded, notwithstanding opposi
tion, in getting off W. Simmons the African to assist Daniel and'
Gulliver at Hayti. Had some satisfactory letters from the South of
France; also a precious one from M. A. Vernet. Prince Esterhazy
sent me a very obliging note, returning many thanks for mine to him."
From this note from the Prince the following is an extract : —
" Prince Esterhazy, having already been acquainted with the rule
established in the religious society which Mr. Allen belongs to, did

1817. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 247
not attribute the circumstances alluded to, to any want of feeling of
the national calamity, so generally and duly deplored. Prince E.
knows already so much good of this society, that he shall receive, with
great interest, any further particulars Mr. W. Allen will be so kind as
to give him."
26th.- — Attended committees on peace and capital punishments ; T.
F. Forster and I drew up a'sketch of a letter as a circular on the latter
subject. 21th  I went up to Prince Esterhazy with a present of books, con
sisting of Tuke's Principles, Penn's Rise and Progress, the Book of
Extracts, and some reports of the African Institution, &c. Afterwards
attended tbe committee of correspondence on school concerns.
Eleventh Month 28th. — After attending the Meeting for Sufferings,
I went to the Borough Road. S. R. Wood from Philadelphia dined
with us ; he has lately been in Petersburg, and he gave me much in
formation about prisons, &c. , there.
Enjoyed some spiritual refreshment alone.
30th. — At meeting in the morning; fore part heavy and dull, but
life afterwards arose, and dear E. J. Fry was engaged in supplication;
afterwards Cornelius said a few words, for which I was deeply thank
ful ; then E. J. F. excellent in testimony : my poor mind refreshed
and comforted ; hope revives that I am not left to myself. My pre
cious daughter is in a sweet tender frame of mind.
Twelfth Month 1st. — Went to the Royal Society Rooms at Somerset
House to attend the election of officers ; afterwards with W. H. Pepys
to the Crown and Anchor to dine with the society.
2nd. — Attended the African Institution with T. F. Forster.
3rd  Had comfort in being at our usual meeting for worship ; also
the select meeting afterwards. In the former Joseph John Gurney
spoke in ministry and supplicated.
Committee on school concerns at four o'clock.
4th. — Dined at Dr. Lushington's, and afterwards held a satisfactory
committee on capital punishments. S. R. Wood of Philadelphia was
with us.
I felt something of the divine presence in the night as well as the
night before. Oh! how precious to experience a little of this.
5th. — Meeting for Sufferings, and after it a committee about pub
lishing ' Dell, on Baptism.' Some judicious observations made by
John Eliot induced us to leave out several passages. It was a satis
factory meeting, excepting that towards the end I replied a little too
sharply to a Friend, and was sorry for it.
6th. — Conference with Pepys about experiments."
Here it may be remarked, that William Allen continued to give
several lectures weekly at the Hospital ; and, although there is occa-

248 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1817.
sional mention of fatigue and headache, yet he speaks of getting on
satisfactorily with them. In the review of the week, he says —
" My prayers have been put up day and night, that the Lord would
be pleased to purify my heart, and render all my thoughts acceptable
to Him ; that He would preserve me continually and make me
thoroughly his. I deeply feel that I have, no strength of my own.
Twelfth Month 11th. — Attended general school committee at the
Borough Road. We had nearly concluded the business before three
o'clock, when William Wilberforce came in, and we had then a long
discussion about Hayti. He consented at last to the payment of the
money for slates, &c, though obviously much chagrined at their being
sent — his preference for the church of England plan is marked.*
13th. — After giving my lecture at the Hospital, I went to Maudsley's
to try the rice mill. The husking machine appears to-do three bushels
per hour, the finishing mill one bushel per hour. First-day, at meet
ing, received some spiritual refreshment. In the evening alone, ten
dered in prayer to Him who sees in secret."
In the review of the week, W. A. notices having —
"Made several astronomical observations on fourth and fifth-day
evenings, and on sixth and seventh-day evenings made several calcu
lations. Twelfth Month 21st. — Comforted in our meeting for worship, on
fourth-day. I have much inward conflict at times, and longing of soul
to be thoroughly purified. — ' Wash me, and I shall be clean.'

>;

* "The Eclectic Review for March, 1845," after enumerating the most distinguished
persons who, at the foundation of the British and Foreign School Society, were actively its
patrons or advocates, and whom the Review denominates " the political founders of the in
stitution," speaks of Wilberforce as having placed himself " in a somewhat equivocal posi
tion, as an annual subscriber, a vice-president, an eloquent advocate, and yet, according to
his sons, a disapprover of the society."
If the sons of William Wilberforce have correctly estimated their father's opinions, the
difficulties which frequently presented themselves^to the committee are explained. Ina
note, under date September 24th, 1817, and addressed by Wilberforce to William Allen, in
reference to their conflicting sentiments, on the school concerns, the former remarks,
"Most cordially do I concur with you in wishing to prevent injurious collisions. How
much better do bodies, which gravitate to the same centre, but move in different orbits,
manage it in the physical, than in the moral world." How strange that the vivid intellect
of Wilberforce did not lead him to perceive the impossibility of sustaining a system, ih which
bodies should diverge into other and opposite orbits ! — Eds.

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 249

CHAPTER IX.
1818. — Reflections — Letter to Frossard — To Lord de Vesci — First speaks in Meeting as a
Minister — Interview with Lord Sidmouth — Criminal Reform — Religious visits to Families
— Journey to Scotland — Address of the Work-people of New Lanark — Reply — Various
Engagements — Prospect of accompanying S. Grellet to the Continent.
" First Month, 1818. — The world continues at peace, except in
South America. It seems as if they would establish their independence
there, if they had leading characters capable of organizing and com
bining. Spain is still degraded and priest-ridden, yet schools on our system
are established at Madrid.
France is restless, but the school plans flourish, and the protestants
also are getting on, but the priests oppose.
New Lanark is still a source of deep exercise to me, but I cannot
see my way out ; Joseph Foster, Michael Gibbs, and I, are to go down
in the Fourth Month, and it appears to me as though I should have
to collect all the people in the new institution and address them."
The review of the week says —
"Still under the feeling of great poverty of spirit — Lord how long!
0 that thou wouldst purify me thoroughly, and having seen meet to
strip me of what was dearest in life, enable me to devote the remainder
of my days to thy service, and condescend to show me clearly how
I may shake off every shackle and burden which may have a tendency
to impede my progress towards the heavenly city.
On first-day afternoon I was much broken and contrited under the
fresh feeling of the loss of my dearest Charlotte. Dear R. Christy
called, and though I was extremely low, prevailed upon me to go to
John Sanderson's, to take tea with Ann Crowley; dear E. J. Fry
came in, and we had a precious religious opportunity, in which divine
goodness overshadowed us, unquestionably, and I was sweetly com
forted. E. J. F. exhorted some present, in forcible terms, to obedience,
if the command was again distinctly given, 'Feed my sheep.'
First Month 5th. — Mills and Burgess, the two American gentlemen
sent out to Africa on account of the free blacks, breakfasted with me ;
their object is to obtain information on the nature of several parts of the
coast, of the soil, its produce, the disposition of its inhabitants, &c,
with a view to find a tract of country which the United States might
purchase of the natives, in order to establish a colony, to which they
might send many thousands of free persons of colour. I took them
to the Borough Road school, and afterwards to Maudsley's to see the
rice mill.
Dinner, Dr. Lushington, Fowell Buxton, &c; committee on juvenile
depredators in the afternoon.

250 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
10th  To W. H. Pepys's about twelve ; recommenced our experi
ments on respiration -with a pigeon.
19th. — Mary Dudley has hinted to me a religious concern to visit
the families of our meeting, and has expressed a belief that I ought to
accompany her ; but ajas! I am so weak, low and poor, that I seem
utterly unfit; however, I may be left at liberty to go to a few, if it should
appear right for me.
20th  Large committee of the British and Foreign School Society,
at Plough Court, to consider of the two public meetings onthe 22nd;
one at the City of London Tavern, and one at Ware.
22nd. — The public meeting at the City of London Tavern, to establish
the North-East London Auxiliary School Society, went off well. I
opened the business and got through satisfactorily.
23rd  To Dr. Luthingtons's, to dine with Capital Punishment So
ciety. Heard a favourable report of the meeting at Ware."
In a letter to William Strutt of Derby, bearing this date, W. A,
says —
" Our school concern is going on well; though the hierarchy, down
to the churchwardens, are doing what they can to oppose. We have
instances where the poor have been threatened that relief should be
withheld, if they persisted in sending their children to our schools.
Surely this should induce the friends of religious liberty to exert them
selves in support of the liberal plan."
The same day, W. A. notes in his diary —
" Writing letters to friends at Manchester for Emilien Frossard ; had
an affecting parting with him."
This young man was the son of Frossard of Montauban, and in
speaking of him, in a letter to S. Grellet, W. A. says —
"His father wished him to learn the English language, which he
thinks will be of great use to them in translating pious tracts, &c, into
French. I kept him some months in my family, and he is now gone
as an assistant in a respectable school near Manchester."
The day of his departure, W. A. addressed to him the following
letters : — " Dear Emilien,
I feel anxious for thy welfare in every respect, and especially in thy
going among perfect strangers : but, if thou art careful to attend to the
Divine Monitor in thy own mind, the spirit of Christ, thou wilt be
under the notice and protection of the greatest of Beings, and wilt be
favoured with that sweet peace in thy own soul, which is far beyond
all other enjoyments. Accept, dear Emilien, the following hints from
thy sincere friend and well-wisher. Preserve this letter and peruse it
occasionally. 1. Devote some portion of the day to the reading of the Holy

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 251
Scriptures alone in thy chamber, and pray constantly to the Almighty
that he would enlighten thy mind to understand them.
2. Endeavour to keep thy mind in such a state that thou mayest
turn it to think upon God many times in the course of the day, and
pour out thy petitions to him in secret for preservation.
3. Never do any thing privately which thou wouldst be ashamed of
if made public, and if evil thoughts come into thy mind, endeavour to
turn from them and not follow up the train of them, or indulge them
for a moment; always endeavour that thy very thoughts may be accept
able in the sight of God, to whom they are always open.
4. Be careful not to read books of an immoral tendency, as novels,
romances, &c, and endeavour to discourage it in others; they are
poison to the mind.
5. Be punctual in attending a place of worship.
6. Be very careful what company thou keepest ; have few intimates,
and let them be persons of the most virtuous character, for if a young
man associate with those of bad character, he infallibly loses his own.
7. Be very circumspect in all thy conduct, and particularly towards
females. 8. Study the interest of thy employer, and endeavour to promote it
by all fair and honourable means in thy power ; study the duties he
expects from thee and, fulfil them faithfully, as in the- sight of God.
Avoid entering into any parties against him, if such should be found
among the pupils, and never speak disrespectfully of him.
9. Endeavour to improve thyself in thy studies in the intervals of
leisure. 10. Never do any thing against thy conscience.
I have not time to add more than that my prayers are put up for thy
preservation, and that as long as thou continuest to conduct thyself in
a virtuous and honourable manner, thou wilt find a steady friend in
William Allen."
This letter called forth a most warm and grateful reply, in which E.
F. states that he sent a copy of it to his father, who, delighted with the
excellent precepts it contained, had thought it right to let the students
at Montauban share in it, and had made it one of his best lessons in
morals and French composition.
The review of this week mentions that there had not been a single
day without an engagement of importance.
"First Month 21th. — Wrote five letters to Africa, and sent also a
parcel by Mills and Burgess."
In a letter to A. Vanneck, at D'Elmina, he says —
"Governor Macarthy is doing a great deal of good at Sierra Leone.
Above one thousand are receiving instruction in schools. I am afraid
the Friendly Society is not going on well ; it seems impossible to induce

252 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
them to turn their attention to the raising of produce, as cotton, &c,
though now they cannot have the least doubt as to the validity of their
titles to land ; Earl Bathurst and the Governor having done everything
that we could wish them to do in this respect.
First Month 29th. — Writing to Baron Fagel and Van Rossum ; sent
off Buxton's package."
' These letters were to forward T. F. Buxton's views in seeking to
obtain further information respecting the Maison de Force at Ghent;
he had been so much struck with W. A.'s account of that prison that
he visited it himself, and, through the medium of Baron Fagel, who
kindly promised his services to W. A., sent a letter to the Governor
requesting an answer to some specific inquiries.
" Second Month. — Still travelling through a barren land, but meet
with some springs now and then. We cannot command that heavenly
enjoyment, the sense of the divine presence, but we ought to use our
utmost exertion to keep the mind in a state for it."
Lord de Vesci having applied to William Allen for some informa
tion respecting the organization of a society for the suppression of men
dicity, &c. W. A. says —
" With respect to the society, formed in Dublin, for the suppression
of mendicity, &c, it would afford me great pleasure to be able to com
municate any thing which could at all tend to promote the benevolent
object, but in all these cases the measures must depend upon local
circumstances ; one thing is quite clear, that We can never attempt to
suppress mendicity until some means are provided to prevent the
necessity for it, otherwise we might be guilty of the greatest cruelty
and oppression. The great difficulty is, with common beggars, to dis
tinguish real cases of charity from impostors, who are making a prey
of public benevolence ; this can only be got over by investigation. My
friend Matthew Martin, of Westminster, has, for some time, been act
ing upon a plan which has produced excellent effects."
After describing the system of tickets, &c, adopted by the Men
dicity Society in London, he goes on to state —
" There is one measure which I have for years had much at heart,
and which is, in my opinion, the only one capable of affording a radi
cal remedy to all the evils which we so deeply deplore, in regard to
the poor and their management — that of district visiting associations,
by which the wants and condition of the poor would be ascertained,
and properly attended to. If this could be carried into effect, I believe
the whole face of society would exhibit a great change for the better;
instead of crowded jails and a starving population, we should have
little occasion for prisons, our persons and our property would be far
more secure, and the enormous sums now spent in the repression of
crime, might be employed to relieve the cases of unavoidable distress,

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 253
to which all societies of men will be for ever liable. A moral and
industrious poor man may be deprived of the use of his limbs or his
sight, or be otherwise incapacitated by illness, so that there will always,
in the ordering of Divine Providence, be scope for the exercise of the
best feelings of the heart ; and wisely is this ordered, for without afflic
tion of some kind, we are prone to go astray, but I believe that Heaven
looks down with peculiar complacency upon a virtuous mind, patiently
suffering affliction according to the will of God."
The plan of a district visiting society is then clearly sketched out,
and some hints offered on the establishment of soup houses, &c. ; but
since that period domiciliary visits, which are strongly recommended,
have, in many places, been so generally connected wilh the relief of
the poor, that it seems unnecessary to enter further into detail.
In replying to this letter Lord de Vesci writes from Abbeylix,
" I received a letter from my friend in Dublin ; he laid your valuable
communication before the committee, for which they return you many
thanks, and you will perceive by their report, that yourndeas and
their's, in a great measure, coincide. I am happy to say that they
have every prospect of success, which zeal, ability, and the support of
the public, can give them."
A letter from Dr. Hamel, dated Paris, February, says —
"Last night, in the school society's council meeting, it was resolved
to distribute medals to those teachers who have particularly distinguished
themselves; the two golden ones will be given to M. Martin and Fros
sard. The number of schools in France, on the British system, is now
three hundred, and several are still organizing. I was pleased, the
other day, to observe, at Mr. Nyon's normal school, several soldiers
amongst those who are training for masters; seven different legions
have already schools for their soldiers, who, in certain divisions, as
semble in the school room, to give and receive instruction."
" Second Month 2nd. — Quarter before twelve at savings' bank, took
above eight hundred pounds, — got away about half-past four.
4th. — Monthly Meeting to comfort. Mary Dudley and her daughter
laid before us their concern to pay a religious visit to the families of
our meeting, and I was rather pressed into the service, but I was left
at liberty only to join in some of them, and with this arrangement I am
best satisfied.
6th. — Josiah Forster and I went to the Bible Society house, Earl
Street, to read a letter from Gossner, of Munich.
8th. — Went with E. J. Fry and Cornelius to Newgate ; about one
hundred women prisoners were collected, and behaved in a most ex
emplary manner. E. J. F. read the seventh chapter of Luke to them
in a solemn manner, and made some comments upon it very sweetly ;
I thought a precious degree of power attended. I also ventured to

254 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
address them, and I felt peace. We were all well satisfied with our
visit. 11th. — Meeting. Pretty close exercise of mind and a sense of good:
the text, 'Feed my sheep,' was quoted, and I felt "as if it would have
been right to supplicate publicly, but after some conflict of mind I put
it off, and felt uneasy afterwards ; I have since been very low and poor,
and yet, if it should be required of me thus to avow myself openly,
may I not hope for indubitable clearness.
Second Month 16th  To Earl Street Bible committee ; Von HeSse's
interesting account of his journey was read.
19th. — Received an important letter from dear S. Grellet."
It appears, that, in this letter, S. G. mentioned the deep exercise of
mind, he had long been under, in the prospect of religious service in
Europe, particularly in Russia ; he had, at length, thought it right to
submit the subject to the judgment of his Monthly Meeting, and though
the matter was, then, in too early a stage to enter much into detail
respecting his views, he was desirous, after the first public step was
taken, to convey the intelligence of it, himself, to this " brother
beloved :" it awakened no common degree of sympathy in William
Allen's mind ; he seemed to have a sense of the contents of the letter,
before he opened it, and, from that period, there was a reference in his
arrangements, to the probability of an engagement which might be im
pending. In the review of the week, he says —
" I had a sweet feeling upon my mind, as I rode home to Newing
ton, on sixth-day night, in which, prospects of labour and deep exercise
appeared to open. Dear S. Grellet is likely to go to Norway and
Russia, on gospel service — what the end of this will be, I know not.
After meeting, on fourth-day, on announcing the time and place for
the interment of the remains of Isaac Messer, son of Josiah Messer, who
died after four days illness, I ventured to make a short addition, which,
I am inclined to believe, was right.
21st. — Had an interview with Lord Sidmouth, together with S. Hoare,
jun., T. F. Buxton, and William Crawford, on the Reformatory for
six hundred boys ; we were well received, and the first half hour was
spent in considering the plans, with which he seemed pleased, and
desired us to draw up a written statement, which he assured us should
be laid before government. We then had a long conference on the
cases of Kelly and Spicer, the two boys condemned for uttering forged
notes ; we cleared our consciences, and, I think, made a little impres
sion: he said that he had sent for the crown solicitor and expected him
every minute ; we proposed waiting for him in another room, which We
did, and then Buxton very properly laid the case before him ; he pro
mised to inquire into it without delay ; Buxton and I then went to the
Penitentiary, Millbank, and to Tothill Fields.

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 255
Second Month 23rd. — Prison discipline committee ; great exertions
making to save Kelly and Spicer; they are reprieved for a week."
The following week there is a notice that " Kelly and Spicer are
reprieved." Much of William Allen's time was occupied, about this
period, with committees and various engagements connected with the
subject of criminal reform ; he drew up an able statement for Lord Sid
mouth, on juvenile delinquency, and in a subsequent interview, when
this was presented, his colleagues and himself again met with a very
favourable reception.
" 21th. — Went with J. and E. Fry and J. J. Gurney to dine with John
Smith, at Spring Gardens. We met Wilberforce and Sir Samuel
Romilly, and had a most agreeable visit.
28th. — Review of the week. This week has been fully occupied,
so as to afford little or no leisure. I have now joined our friends, M.
and E. Dudley, in nine family visits, in most, if not all, of which, I
thought that a precious degree of divine power prevailed, and was
graciously permitted to attend us from house to house. It seems to be
a time of encouragement, and has been marvellous to me ; as I have
thought it right to say something in most of the families hitherto, and
have had peace in it.
Third Month 15th. — Much secret support and peace oLmind in ac
companying our friends, M. and E. Dudley, to a few more families in
the course of their visit.
16th. — Went up to the mendicity committee, Red Lion Square ; they
are preparing to open their office, on the 25th ; called on Brougham,
¦ — he wants me to give evidence in the House of Commons, on the
expense of the schools."
In writing to Thomas Eddy, of New York, on the subject of schools,
W. A. says —
<* Nothing could be more judicious, than your determination to have
some person well acquainted with the system to train masters for you,
and travel about from place to place, to organize the schools. I
have induced them to adopt this plan among the Protestants, in the
south of France, whom I visited last summer, and the result has been
truly gratifying, so that I am constantly receiving letters from them,
announcing the establishment of new schools. Two years ago the
great mass of poor children of Protestants, in France, were without
any education at all, but, if things go on as they do at present, there
is reason to hope that, in two years more^ most of them will be receiv
ing instruction. We have established the System at Madrid, with the
sanction of the King of Spain, and it is become general in other parts
of the continent of Europe. They now have it in Christophe's part
of Hayti, and I find, by letters from Thomas Bosworth, a young man

256 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
whom we sent to Petion, that it is likely to be established on that side
of the Island."
Soon after the date of this letter, William Allen writes in his diary —
"Received letters from Paris and America, and also had an account
of the death of poor Bosworth, at Hayti, of a fever ; he died on the
10th of last Second Month.
Fourth Month 8th. — Monthly Meeting. The first meeting was to
me a solemn time ; I was impressed with what I thought a sense of
duty to say a few words, which I deferred till the meeting was breaking
up, when I ventured to utter them, and had peace, not only that day,
but in the night also.
14th  Lecture at the Hospital, No. 24, conclusion of the course ; it
was rather surprising that the very serious advice given should be so
well received in that place.
15th. — Thaddeus Connellan, an. Irishman who, for eight years, has
been very active in promoting the education of the poor in Ireland,
and has been the means of getting fifty thousand taught, dined with
me." In a letter to W. Wilberforce respecting two men of colour, who
had brought their cases under William Allen's notice, he says —
" Smith has strong claims upon the attention of government. I
have left some proofs. in the hand of Lord Bathurst, who, in his reply
to my application, states that he sees no objection to granting him a
passage as a settler, but that if he teaches as a schoolmaster it must be
on the principles of the Established Church. This speaks volumes,
and will explain Hill's case_also. Surely if the friends to an establish
ment set themselves thus against all plans for the benefit of mankind,
which do not square with their narrow scheme, the public will not be
long in discovering that they are a nuisance. The conclusion is obvi
ous ; is there no Gamaliel to remind them, that if this work which they
so strenuously oppose, is of God, they cannot overthrow it, but may
possibly, in the attempt, shake that which they mean to support to the
very foundation ?
By the time this reaches thee I expect to be on my way to Edinburgh,
so that what relates to Pestalozzi's plan must sleep till I have the
pleasure of seeing thee, which I hope will be soon after my return.
The principal object of my visit to Lanark is to discover whether any
attempt is making there to weaken the faith of the people in divine
revelation; though I must say that all accounts justify a hope that they
stand firm to the principles of Christianity."
The proposed journey was commenced on the 20th, and after having
spent a week at Lanark, W. A. writes —
" This has been a trying week, as I have had deep exercise of mind

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 257
on account of Robert Owen's infidel principles. I have sustained
many disputes with him.
We have endeavoured to get pretty full information relative to the
state of the concern at Lanark, both with regard to the population and
the business. What I pray for is to be favoured to see clearly what
is required of me to do. Oh ! that He whom I wish to love and to
serve, would favour me with light and clearness !
I find that when R. 0. was applied to at first for leave to establish
a Bible society, he refused, but afterwards some of the people estab
lished it, and now his wife and family subscribe.
Fifth Month 6th. — Conference about Stonebyers, &c. ; just before
dinner I asked R. Owen's wife whether she thought that the people
would be inclined to meet the London proprietors, and to receive any
communication which they might be disposed to make ; she said they
would be quite disposed. I rather think she must have told her hus
band, for he no sooner saw me when we were going in to dinner (J. F.
and M. G. being present) than he asked me whether I was disposed
to have a meeting. This put me to the test ; my companions did not
say any thing ; however, I told him that I did feel inclined to meet the
people ; but it was only fair to state that if I did I could not answer
for what I might say to them. I added that I should certainly prepare
nothing beforehand, though since he had addressed them on his prin
ciples, I might feel it right to state what were our's. He immediately
said, ' Will to-morrow evening do ?' I assented, and in the kindest
manner he said that notice should be given to all the village. I replied
that my wish was merely to meet the work-people and officers of the
establishment, though I should not object to any one who might wish
to come. In the mean time, a deputation arrived from the work-peo
ple, stating, that they were preparing an address to the London pro
prietors, and requesting to know when they might present it. We
fixed upon the time of the meeting, when, what I might have to say,
would come in very naturally in the reply. In the afternoon I took a
little walk by myself in the grounds, and felt as if half my burden was
taken off, by having consented to the arrangements for to-morrow even
ing. The engagement,-however, appeared a very weighty and a very
difficult one, as, on all accounts, I wished to avoid any unnecessary
pain to R. O.'s feelings ; while, at the same time, my peace consisted
in speaking the whole truth.
1th. — Joseph Foster and I took a walk to Old Lanark, to see the
minister there, and inquire into the moral state of the people at the
mills ; he said he was not aware of any case of drunkenness for a year
or two past, and he did not think that Owen's principles took any root
among the population. We then went to another of their ministers ;
he gave us a very good account of the morals of the people at the
Vol. I. 17

258 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
mills, and I find that he visits them often ; he seemed heartily glad to
hear our sentiments on the subject of the Scriptures, &c. : and we urged
him to visit the schools, and see that they were taught there, and also
to correspond with us, if he saw any attempt made to introduce any
thing contrary to revealed religion. On our return to the mills we had
a conference with the master of the work-people who has had the gene
ral superintendence. He has the character of a steady religious man,
and his information was satisfactory. The pending engagement felt
very awful; about half-past seven we went down to the works, where
we found the people assembled in the great room of the institutiony to
the amount of several hundreds ; we went up into the gallery, and
took our seats in front. The deputation walked up the middle of the
room, and the reader, Innis the schoolmaster, mounted the pulpit, and
read the address in a very audible manner. It was exceedingly well
drawn up, and when it was finished Joseph Foster, Michael Gibbs,
and I, rose, and I was mercifully favoured with utterance and strength
to relieve my mind and discharge the burden which has so rested upon
it, though the engagement was one of no small delicacy, Owen being
present. I felt a comfortable degree of best help, and spoke for about
three quarters of an hour. The people were remarkably attentive, and
when all was over separated very quietly. I felt peace and comfort,
and R. 0. and I walked together to Braxfield ; he did not make the
least objection to what was said, but remarked that that day would be
long remembered by the people. J. F. and M. G. said that they could
not have wished a word altered. I was deeply thankful in being thus
helped, and one of my great objects in visiting Scotland being accom
plished, I looked towards setting off home with pleasure."
The next morning W. A. received a deputation, requesting that he
would favour the inhabitants with a copy of his reply ; but a difficulty
arose, as he had not previously written any thing for the occasion. He
promised, however, that on his return to London, he would endeavour
to put down what he could recollect on the subject, which, together
with the address, is as follows : —
to william allen, joseph foster, and michael gibbs, esquires.
" Gentlemen,
" We, the inhabitants of New Lanark, beg to address ourselves to
you, as part proprietors of the establishment, on your appearance
amongst us. We have had several opportunities of expressing to
Robert Owen, Esq., our grateful sense of his continued kindness to us,
as our more immediate master; and would now offer you our most
cordial welcome, on visiting this place. We are fully aware, Gentle
men, that although your other pursuits may prevent your continued
residence in the village, yet, whatever tends to add to our comfort, or
render our circumstances easier, will meet with your approbation ; and,

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 259
in this view, we regard it as not unnecessary to thank you, thus publicly,
for the many advantages we enjoy, through your co-operation with Mr.
Owen, and the other partners in the concern. The care which is taken
in gratuitously educating our children, and the humane treatment we
experience, under the persons to whom is committed the management
of the various departments of this work, are advantages which call forth
our earnest expressions of gratitude. We are sensible that our circum
stances are much superior to that of all other cotton-spinners ; and it is
our desire, by a steady attention to our various duties, to merit a con
tinuance of that kindness, which we now experience. We hope the
interest you have taken (in conjunction with the other proprietors) in
the bill now pending in Parliament, — having, for its object, to place
others, of the labouring class, in some degree, on a footing with our
selves, — will be rewarded, by your seeing it pass into a law. We
conclude, by expressing our desire," that all cotton-spinners enjoyed
the same advantages as we do ; then would the master manufacturers
feel the superior gratification, arising from possessing the affections of a
well-treated and happy people ; and their servants, that pleasure which
a continued kind attention on the part of the master, is calculated to
afford. With much respect, Gentlemen, we sign ourselves in the name, and
by the request of the inhabitants of New Lanark, &c."
(Signed by eight persons.)
Substance, of the Reply io the Address of ihe Inhabitants of New Lanark to the London
Proprietors, on their visit to the Mills.
"Esteemed Friends,
I can assure you, on behalf of myself and the other London pro
prietors, that the sentiments of esteem and attachment, which you have
just expressed towards us, are reciprocal; and we shall ever consider
it a duty and a pleasure, to second and support our benevolent friend,
Robert Owen, in those judicious and enlightened plans for your temporal
comfort, which he has devised, and, hitherto, prosecuted with so much
success ; and we are glad to hear, so much to your satisfaction.^-This
was the great feature in the concern, which first attracted our attention:
we saw that a grand experiment was making, which, if it succeeded,
would prove to all the world, the truth of this most important position,
— that the good morals, the comfort and happiness, of the working
class of every manufacturing establishment, — in a word, their true
interest, is inseparably connected with the interest of the proprietors, as
well as with that of the community at large. Woful experience in
other places has shown that, to endeavour to extract the greatest
quantity of profit from such a concern, at the expense of the health and
comfort of those employed in it, is a policy at once short-sighted and
cruel ; and calculated, eventually, to le,ad to results, baneful to society

260 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
at large, and highly dangerous to the state. We saw the plans of our
benevolent friend opposed by narrow prejudices. We were convinced,
by what had been gradually effected, through a series of years, that
these plans were practicable. We saw, that, if they were fairly acted
upon, and fully developed, the most important beneficial consequences
must ensue ; but that if the concern fell into other hands, the labour of
years would be lost, and New Lanark would sink to a level with some
other cotton-spinning manufactories. It was to avert such a catastrophe,
and to preserve and carry forward such a noble experiment, that the
present partnership was formed : it was this that induced us to unite
in the purchase, and to incur all the responsibility attached to so large
a concern. Yes, if the only inducement had been the mere question of
probable profit, you would not have seen us before you this day.
We are then embarked together in a common cause — your interests
and our interests are intimately blended. We are aiming, not merely
to promote the comfort and happiness of the people of New Lanark,
but to afford an example to the manufacturers of Glasgow, of Stockport,
of Manchester, and, in fact, of every manufactory in the whole world;
for these principles are of universal application.
In this important business, however, your cordial co-operation is
indispensably necessary ; the eyes of the world are upon us, and much,
very much, depends upon the nature of your conduct : — those who are
watching for evil, would be glad of an opportunity of impeaching the
moral character of the population here ; would be eager to employ it as
an argument against our plan ; and most effectually would they coun
teract all our attempts to propagate it, were they able to show, that the
cause of morality and virtue were not promoted by it. But from all
that I have heard, and from all that I have seen, I feel the deepest
conviction, that, in point of moral and religious feeling, as well as in
temporal comfort, no manufacturing population of equal extent can
compare with New Lanark.
But, while we are anxious to do all in our power to promote your
temporal comfort, we feel a deep interest in what relates to your eternal
well-being. The things of time and sense are transient : — if we pos
sessed all the riches and all the accommodations in the world, without
the comforts of religion, they could yield us no solid satisfaction ; they
may be taken from us ; and if they are not, we must soon be taken from
them ; and in the awful moment which must arrive to every one of us,
all the enjoyments of this life will vanish as a dream : — then an interest
in our Creator and Saviour, the sweet feeling of his countenance, and
love, will be more to us than the possession of the Indies ; because it
will afford us the well-grounded hope, that our immortal part will,
through the merits of the Redeemer, be received into everlasting rest
and peace. Since, then, religion is the only foundation of our happi-

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 261
ness here, and our hope for eternity, we are anxious that it should form
a prominent part in the education of your children. And here we would
be distinctly understood. We are not desirous to see you proselyted
to this or that form of religion, but we are anxious to see your children
brought up sincere christians. The London proprietors, who are now
present with you, (as well as our friend John Walker, now upon the
continent,) though firm believers in the christian religion, and the truths
of divine revelation, as contained in the Holy Scriptures, and as applied
by the Spirit of God in the secret of the heart, themselves differ as to
some less important particulars. Joseph Foster and myself are mem
bers of the Society of Friends ; Michael Gibbs is a member of the
Established Church of England ; but we all agree with the Church of
Scotland in the main truths of religion. We believe that the true
Church of Christ consists of members of all visible churches, who, in
the sincerity of their hearts, are endeavouring'to know and to perform
the will of God, who are faithful to what is manifested to them to be
their duty. These will be finally accepted, whatever denomination they
may have borne among men, and will, in a glorified state, form part of
that company which no man can number, gathered from every nation,
kindred, tongue, and people, which the Evangelist John, in the visions
of God, saw surrounding the throne, and uniting in the universal hal
lelujah. Yes, we are believers in divine revelation. Some of us have pur
sued the path of science, have investigated the wonderful works of the
Creator, have been permitted to obtain a glimpse of those simple yet
sublime and beautiful laws by which the universe is governed, and by
which that harmony and order, so essential to the preservation of the
whole, are invariably maintained. The smallest insect which the micro
scope can discover, so beautifully organized in all its parts, so complete
for the purpose for which it was created, proclaims Omnipotence as
loudly as those vast bodies which revolve round the sun at different
distances, and with different degrees of velocity. The very earth
which we inhabit, carrying seas agitated by storms, volcanoes, bodies,
every where in motion in all directions, yet revolves upon its axis with
a precision which no time-piece will ever be able to equal. They who
have pushed their inquiries the furthest into the works of the great
Creator, see at every step, fresh subjects for admiration and astonish
ment, and are most deeply convinced, that such marks of contrivance
and design, such beautiful adaptation of means to ends, could only be
produced by a Being, infinite in wisdom and in power, before whom,
the most intelligent of the sons of men dwindles into absolute insignifi
cance. Yet such is his love for this part of his creation, that he has
provided ample means for their enjoyment, even of the things of this
life, while they endeavour to acknowledge Him in all their ways, and to

262 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
perform his will. Even those sufferings incident to humanity, if pa
tiently borne in humble resignation, are often real mercies ; they pre
vent our affections from being too deeply riveted to the things of time
and sense, and tend to unite us in spirit more closely to him ; and
though we all, by following the appetites of a depraved nature, ' have
sinned and fallen short of the glory of God,' yet he has mercifully pro
vided a means of reconciliation through the merits and sufferings of our
Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, whose Holy Spirit in the secret of our
hearts is striving with us, and, if he be followed and obeyed, we shall
become reconciled to God, and delivered from the bondage of sin.
Thus his love is infinite, as well as his wisdom and power.
The omnipresence of the Deity is another of his attributes. There
is no part of the universe where his power is not continually acting, to
maintain the order of his glorious works. He sees us every moment
of our lives ; and though we may sometimes conceal our vices from
our fellow creatures, we can never hide them from Him, to whom the
darkness is as the noonday.
Now, as this infinitely holy Being is a spirit, and cannot be compre
hended by our bodily organs ; and as the soul of man is of a spiritual
nature ; it is highly reasonable to believe, that he influences the minds
of his rational creatures, who sincerely believe in and love him, and
we have most satisfactory evidence, that in former ages he divinely in
fluenced the minds of his faithful and devoted servants, and revealed
to them truths infinitely important to mankind. These being recorded,
become a written revelation ; and such are the Holy Scriptures. It is
not for us poor short-sighted mortals to inquire why the Almighty has
chosen, in many instances, to employ secondary means for the accom
plishment of his gracious purposes ; — it is not for poor man, with his
very limited faculties, to say to Infinite Wisdom, what dost thou ?
Let us now consider these natural faculties of man, of which he is
so foolishly proud, that he will sometimes refuse to believe what cannot
be demonstrated with mathematical precision. Among these, reason
or judgment stands pre-eminent. This faculty, as we see every day,
varies infinitely in different individuals : it consists in the power of
comparing ideas or facts; of observing their agreement or difference;'
and of forming a conclusion from them. Now, in things which relate
to the natural world, we can for the most part obtain clear and satis
factory data, and may be able to come to a just decision: — but the
operations of Divine Providence, the things which regard the spiritual
world, are of a higher nature. In judging of the ways of God, we
have not all the data, even if we were able to reason upon them ; and
hence (since finite can never comprehend infinite) the strongest natural
faculties may form erroneous calculations. Our reason, therefore, in
judging of these things, must be guided and enlightened by Him who

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 263
created it, and who, if we unreservedly yield to the operation of his
power upon the soul, will produce as clear and strong an evidence as
any to be obtained from the sciences; and yet the consequences will
always be consistent with right reason. Thus, while in natural things
within the compass of our natural faculties we are bound to exercise
them, — in spiritual things, which never can be comprehended by mere
human reason, we are equally, bound to have faith in God. When we
consider the nature of the Christian dispensation, as developed in the
Holy Scriptures, we see that it tends to exalt and ennoble man, and
that it is most admirably calculated to promote his happiness here and
hereafter. Now, as this is perfectly consistent with the attributes of
the Divine Being, and as we have the evidence of all ages, from the
time of the appearance of the Messiah, to the period in which we now
live, that they who have acted consistently with the precepts of the
Gospel, as set forth in the Holy Scriptures, have not only been virtuous
characters, but have materially promoted the best interests of man
kind, — we must conclude that the Christian dispensation is of divine
origin ; and that all the misery which we deplore in the world arises,
not merely from a misapplication of the natural faculties of man, but
for want of attention to the operations of the grace of God, which as it
is followed will lead into all truth, and which in the Holy Scriptures is
pointed out in different terms, all importing the same thing, — as the
pearl of great price ; the leaven ; the light ; the anointing ; the unction,
— as said the apostle to - the believers, ' Ye have an unction from the
Holy One.' And again, 'The anointing which ye have received of
him abideth in you ; and ye need not that any man teach you, but as
the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no
lie.' This is the only principle upon which true happiness can be built ;
and therefore, in the education of your dear children, we are especially
anxious that they should be trained up in a knowledge of, and rever
ence for, the Holy Scriptures ; and that their tender minds should be
imbued with the great truths of revealed religion. But we must de
pend upon you to second our efforts" for their good; which will most
effectually be done by the powerful influence of a pious example in
yourselves ; by firmness tempered with kindness, in repressing and
discountenancing every. appearance of angry passions, every deviation
from truth and sincerity ; and by teaching them the importance of a
due observance of the day appointed for divine worship. Then may
we expect the blessing of heaven upon our great experiment ; — then
may we, indeed, confidently hope, that your children will become use
ful and honourable members of society at large, and your greatest tem
poral comforts in your declining years. The bonds of natural affection
will be strengthened by the principles of our holy religion ; and having

264 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
honestly endeavoured to put your beloved offspring in the right way,
you may descend to the grave blessing and blessed, and lay down
your heads in peace."
In the course of this journey, William Allen spent a few days at
Glasgow, where he attended a meeting of the Peace Society, held at
Dr. Chalmers's. The subject was discussed whether they should go
the whole length with the London Committee as it regards defensive
war ; W. A. says —
"Dr. Chalmers seemed against it, Collins for it; I gave my senti
ments on the-same side as the latter, and had peace in doing so. They
all appeared to feel the force of the observations, and Dr. Chalmers
promised to study the subject deeply. We went to dine with Robert
Graham the lawyer, who has a beautiful place at White Hill; his son
seems to be a clever young man ; and also his son-in-law, Robinson,,
son of the late eminent professor. In the evening we went by appoint
ment to pay another visit to Dr. Chalmers, and had much interesting
conversation about the poor, &c. ; I told him my plan for general in
vestigation, which he seemed to approve."
W. A. also became acquainted with James Ewing, one of their chief
magistrates, who he says is —
" An excellent man, warmly interested in the subject of prisons, and
who has paid great attention to the state of the poor."
In visiting Edinburgh, he again speaks of the kindness of his friends
there, and Fifth Month 9th, writes —
" Leonard Horner called, and we fixed to dine with Dr. Brewster at
five o'clock. Alexander Cruickshank then came and kindly spent the
morning in showing me to the houses of different persons whom I
wished to see. We called on a clergyman of the name of Brunton,
and had some conversation with him on the subject of prison discipline
plans, &c. ; he seems quite disposed to co-operate. His wife is a very
clever woman, and a literary character.* We then went to see a very
benevolent old gentleman, Erskine of Mar, who gives away most of his
income in charity ; we had some pleasant conversation with him, and
afterwards saw the secretary of the School Society, William Braidwood,
who engages to fill up a list of queries on the slate of the poor, and
send them to London. We called also on F. Jeffrey, the editor of the
Edinburgh Review, and enlisted him in the prison discipline cause.
He engages to write an article if I will furnish the materials for him,
which I gladly undertake to do. This interview was particularly
agreeable. About five o'clock I went to Dr. Brewster's, in Melville
Street, and met a large party there— L. Horner, Pillan, of the high
school, Count Brenner, a very interesting young German, &c. After
* She was the authoress of " Self Control and Discipline," and after her death, her hus
band published a volume of Extracts from her Journal and other writings.

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 265
dinner we had much satisfactory conversation about schools, prison
discipline, &c.
Fifth Month 10th  Meeting to some comfort. Dined at Alexander
Cruickshank's. R. Owen took me to see Colonel Colquhoun and his
wife ; the latter is a very kind-hearted interesting person. We saw
her brother-in-law, Stewart, of Luss, who is engaged in translating the
Bible into Gaelic; he gave me a proof sheet of Exodus. They lived at
one time near Loch Lomond, and were noted for their extensive hospi
tality: Col. Colquhoun is blind, but seems in a sweet placid disposition
of mind. We were strongly pressed to stay, but our time would not
permit. We went to the evening meeting at half-past five, thence to
our inn, where we had much conversation about Lanark, and particu
larly on the mo^t important point of all, the education of the children
in christian principles. R. Owen assured us that he had not interfered
in this respect, and that this business was exactly on the same footing
as in David Dale's time.
11th. — Dr. Brewster came to breakfast with me, at the hotel; about
half-past ten Dr. Hope called, and took me to see his lecture room,
which seems admirably contrived, and capable of holding several hun
dred pupils ; in the apparatus room he has a considerable number of
very large closets, in which the apparatus is nicely arranged for every
lecture ; and he has papers for each lecture, with instructions to his
assistant. The bulbs of his differential thermometers are nearly two inches in
diameter, and his apparatus, in general, is upon a large scale ; in the
laboratory he has reservoirs of the different gases, which, he says, keep
very well in green stoppled bottles, with the neck inverted in a little
water; he has a glass receiver, capable of holding about ten or twelve
gallons of oxygen, which, by an ingenious contrivance, he can fill as it
stands, by means of tubes, so that he makes the oxygen pass into it 
This evening we set off by the mail, travelling all night and the next
day. On third-day evening, the 12th, we slept at York, and from
thence posted to Stamford, where we lodged. I reached Stoke New
ington safely, on fifth-day afternoon, and found my dear child, sister,
and all the family well.
The investigation which we have made at Lanark has been very
satisfactory, and I have had much peace in the public opportunity I
had with the work-people, so that, though the journey home was rather
fatiguing, my mind was at ease. I begin to hope that even this under
taking may be blessed, and that, perhaps, we were permitted to enter
into it, to prevent New Lanark from becoming a seminary for infidels:
how thankful shall I be if this is the case !
Fifth Month lllh.— John Griscom is come over to England — Samuel

266 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
Emlen called with him to-day ; Professor Pictet and his grandson,
Charles Vernet, are also arrived ; the latter I have not yet seen.
22nd. — An officer of the Duke of Kent, a pious man from Brussels,
called ; he is about establishing our schbol plan there.
21th — Professor Pictet, and his grandson, Charles Vernet, called
and went with me to meeting, at Gracechurch Street; I afterwards
accompanied them to meet E. J. Fry, at Newgate ;. the Duke of Lein-
ster, and the Swedish Ambassador were there : it was a solemn time.
E. J. Fry read a psalm, and was afterwards engaged in prayer ; Hannah
Field also supplicated, and Mary Sanderson spoke in ministry — many
Friends at dinner; Thaddeus Connellan'came, and entertained them
very much.
29th. — Yearly Meeting. Meeting at eleven ; the subject of the re
ligious instruction of children was under consideration ; it was a solemn
and impressive time ; John Wilkinson spoke excellently — I felt much
comforted. A committee was appointed, of which I was one, to draw
up a minute to go to the Quarterly and Monthly Meetings.
31st  Review of the last week. The Yearly Meeting closed on
seventh-day evening, under a precious degree of solemnity, which I
think, more or less, has attended the several sittings ; I have had peace
in attending most of the committees, and assisting at the table. A
struggle must be maintained against a disposition to seek ease, at the
expense of my duties.
I am sometimes humbled, in a sense of my weakness, when I detect
myself in a disposition to be pleased and gratified by the exaltation
of self.
Sixth Month 8th. — Parliament is dissolved, and the new elections
are beginning ; I feel scarcely any interest in the jarring politics which
agitate the mob ; at the same time, I am extremely desirous for the suc
cess of those men, who, independently of party feeling, give all their
energies to promote the general interests of man.
9th  To the House of Commons ; committee on education ; gave
evidence to Brougham.
11th. — Thomas Sturge, jun., and David Holt, are raising a subscrip
tion for Joseph Lancaster, to enable him to go to America, and they
have written us a letter, requesting our assistance ; I have subscribed
twenty-five pounds — Joseph Foster the same.
16lh.— To Kensington Gore, to Wilberforce ; had a long and satis^
factory conference with him.
19th. — Mary and I went to the Old Jewry, to take leave of Hannah
Field ; she is going to Liverpool to-morrow, to embark for America ;
it was a solemn time ; I ventured to supplicate publicly, for her and
those who went with her.

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 267
W. A. received a letter from a gentleman, of whom he-had scarcely
any previous knowledge, dated June 19th, in which he says —
" Last night I read your remarks on the « Carnal and Spiritual State
of Man.' Start not when I tell you that it is the first tract, on a religious
subject, which I have read through, and credit me when I tell you that
it shall not be the last; you furnish a subject of serious reflection, and
of very important instruction. Some passages J should have personi
fied, if you had known me when you wrote them ; I have, however,
the advantage of the light, without being seen ; the next step will be
to bear the light ; you know even the visual organ, emerging from dark
ness, meets the day with pain ; I need not apply the observation."
" Seventh Month 2nd. — Went with Joseph Foster, to the great meet
ing of the British and Foreign School Society, at the Freemasons'
Tavern ; the Duke of Sussex was in the chair, supported, on his right,
by Wilberforce, and by Sir Alexander Johnstone on the left ; Joseph
Foster read the report very well. The hall was full ; Wilberforce made
a grand speech, and the meeting was highly satisfactory.
Seventh Month 3rd. — I had a long and most interesting conversation
with Sir Alexander Johnstone, on the means of promoting the British
system of education at Ceylon; he is a very superior man. We are
sending two young men, at the request of the Government of Buenos
Ayres, to establish the system there."
In the review of the week, W. A. writes —
" My faith at a low ebb ; Stephen Grellet may be expected at Liver
pool, in a few days, and I still see very little fresh light on the subject
of accompanying him to Norway" and Russia. I think that I am re
signed to go, if He, whom I desire to love and to serve, will vouchsafe
to show me distinctly what is my duty ; perhaps it may not be required
at last, though a settled apprehension of it has long attended my mind.
6th. — Went with Professor Pictet and his grandson to the Bible Com
mittee ; met Cuvier and Sir Alexander Johnstone.
14th — Wrote letters to T. Eddy and John Murray, New York, re
commending Charles Pickton."
In addressing the latter, W. A. says —
" The subject of capital punishment and prison discipline is exciting
the public attention here in a very remarkable manner. It was taken
up at our last Yearly Meeting, and the Meeting for Sufferings was
directed to address the legislature upon it at a suitable opportunity,
which will probably be soon after Parliament meets at the close of the
year." 20th. — At meeting on fourth-day I felt something sweet and precious
in the time of silence; but, still fearful of acting in my own wisdom, I
did not venture to say anything. My poor mind is much tried. I want

268 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
the broad seal to the commission, for I have deeply deplored in others
the effect of words without life.
Dear S. Grellet is arrived at Liverpool ; we may expect him in
London next week. ^ Now comes the trial ; but if my great Master will
but condescend to make the path oiduty plain, whether it is to go or stay,
I feel quite resigned, for I know that I can never be truly happy but in
doing or suffering His will ; and, if but favoured with clearness that it
is right to make those sacrifices which will be necessary, in case it seems
my duty to accompany dear Stephen, it is all I wish. I shall then leave
my precious child, my dear aged mother, with others who, by natural
and spiritual ties, are dear to me, — in confidence that they will be sup
ported and cared for by the Shepherd of Israel.
Seventh Month 21st. — Stephen Grellet came this evening ; he takes
up his quarters with us."
The review of this week says —
" A time of deep exercise of mind ; the great enemy appeared to be
let loose upon me, but faith prevailed. As the time of trial drew nearer
and nearer, the concern became heavier and heavier, and on seventh-
day it seemed as if I must give up. On first-day evening dear Mary,
S. Grellet, and I, went to dear R. Christy's, where we had a religious
opportunity never to be forgotten. Divine love and power plentifully
overshadowed us, and melted us all in a remarkable manner; no doubts
remained ; at the close I was engaged in supplication for my precious
child, committing her to the protection of our Heavenly Father.
21th. — A Special Meeting for Sufferings, in which dear S. Grellet
presented his certificates and opened his concern in a very weighty
manner. After many Friends had spoken, and the clerk had formed a
minute, I stood up and informed Friends that I had for a long time
gradually felt a concern coming upon me to join our dear Friend in a
part, at least, of his prospects, and that it was now settled upon my
mind as a matter of duty. A solemn pause ensued, after which several
Friends expressed their unity and sympathy, and a minute was made
accordingly. I thought that there was something of the presence of the
Lord to be comfortably felt. Surely my prayer has been answered by
the degree of light and clearness which has been mercifully vouchsafed.
30^. — We went up to the Swedish Ambassador, and were very
kindly received by him.
Seventh Month 31st. — S. G. and I went to Count Lieven's, and had
a very satisfactory interview with him ; he is to give us letters to his
brother, to Prince Galitzin, and to the Russian Ambassador at Stock
holm. Eighth Month 3rd. — To Kensington Palace at the desire of the Duke
of Kent ; took R. H. with me, and the Duke promises to see if any
thing can be done in his case.

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 269
4th. — Went over to the Borough Road to meet the Duke and
Duchess of Kent and Prince Leopold. Dear E. J. Fry was there,
much to my comfort ; my spirits were scarcely equal to it, but every
thing went off exceedingly well.
5th.— Monthly Meeting. — My spirits low, but my mind supported;
not the least doubt with regard to the pointings of duty. I opened my
prospect in the men's meeting, and had the unity and sympathy of
Friends. I accompanied dear Stephen to the women's meeting, where
we had a precious refreshing opportunity.
1th. — To Count Lieven's, and had a very satisfactory interview with
him. He engaged me to write to him and give him an account of my
journey from place to place, and will forward all my letters directed to
Petersburg. An affecting parting with my dear mother and with Re
becca Christy, my precious sister in the unchangeable truth."

CHAPTER X.
1818. — Sets out for the North of Europe with S. Grellet — Voyage to Stavanger — Persons
professing with Friends there — Christiansand — Journey to Christiania — to Stockholm —
Institutions there — Interview with the King — Letter to the King — Departure from Stock
holm — Arrival at Abo.
" Eighth Month 8th, 1818. — My "natural feelings have been deeply
tried in taking leave of my dear aged mother, and many dear connexions
and friends, and this morning the parting with my beloved child, my
dear sister Anna Hanbury, and the family, affected me much. S. Grellet
and I set off in a post chaise about seven o'clock ; at Bow we took up
my dear friend Joseph Foster, who kindly intends to accompany us to
Harwich, and Enoch Jacobson, from Norway, who is to be our fellow-
traveller, is to come by the coach with our baggage."
After mentioning some calling visits by the way, he continues —
" We arrived at Ipswich about seven o'clock, and met with a most
cordial reception from our kind friends Richard and Ann Alexander.
9th. — Priscilla Gurney came all the way from Norwich on purpose
to see us ; we went to meeting at ten — it was a satisfactory time, and I
still feel in the way of my duty. We dined at R. D. Alexander's,
where dear Thomas Clarkson came to meet us ; we had much con
versation about Africa, the Slave Trade, &c, and settled our arrange
ments ; we had a religious opportunity after dinner, and a solemn and
affecting parting with our Friends."
They were bound for the port of Stavanger, in Norway, but the
wind proving contrary they were obliged to remain at Harwich until
the 15th, when W. A. writes —
"We had a precious parting with our kind friends, Richard and Ann

270 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
Alexander, who have been our faithful companions in this trying deten
tion. We went oh board the Freeling, about a quarter before eleven,
though not without some apprehension that we might have to return,
the wind being directly against us."
This, however, did not prove to be the case, though, at first, they
made very slow progress, and during part of the voyage, suffered much
from the tossing of the vessel. On first-day, the 16th, they held their
little meeting, at which the captain was present, and W. A. says —
"Our minds were sweetly refreshed and comforted."
The wind continued contrary, and the voyage was a very trying one,
the vessel affording but little accommodation, but he was able to read
and write, and took many observations with his sextant, which, as well
as a telescope and other instruments, was his travelling companion. In
again mentioning the holding of their meeting, he says —
"I had previously been depressed and discouraged, but the dear
Master, I trust, condescended to notice us in our solitary state, and to
comfort us together — what a mercy ! After dinner we went upon deck,
and sat in our usual place by the companion ; I read several chapters
in Isaiah, after which we sat in silence ; I thought much of my dear
connexions and friends, at our afternoon meeting, in Gracechurch
street, and felt more of the good presence of the Lord than for a long
time before, which deeply contrited me. I had some conversation on
religious subjects with the ship lads, and also with the captain ; after
tea we resumed our places by the companion, when I again read in the
Scriptures, and at sunset we had a season of refreshment and comfort;
dear Stephen said he then felt such sweet unity and sympathy with
the spirit of my beloved child, that it seemed as if she were present
with us.
Eighth Month 25th. — On going- upon deck, this morning, I dis
covered land at a distance ; and a, quarter before eleven we took a
pilot and his two sons on board ; on approaching the coast of Norway,
the country has a very barren appearance. We see ranges of rugged
rocks, one beyond another, some of very considerable height, and it
was some time before we discovered a tree ; as we advanced, however,
some verdure was apparent, and we saw small patches of rye, barley,
or oats. Stavanger is situated at the head of a river, or more properly,
an arm of the sea; the population is estimated at about three thousand;
the houses are universally built of wood, and covered with tiles.
Keiland, the son of one of the principal inhabitants, came on board ; he
speaks English very well, and I delivered to him our letters of intro
duction ; he was so kind as to see after the officers, and expedite the
examination of our baggage, and he also went to the inn, to give notice
of our arrival ; it is a large quiet house, situated near the landing-place,
and is kept by a person highly respected in the place ; the boards and

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 271
every thing are remarkably clean ; and, after our doleful imprisonment,
in the vessel, this change is very grateful to our feelings.
The pilot expressed to Enoch a great anxiety to purchase a Bible,
and stated that the single copy, which they had among them, had
almost excited a quarrel, so many wishing to possess it, that they were,
at last, obliged to decide it by lot ; it was concluded to give the old
pilot one, which he very gratefully received ; his son, afterwards, came
down, and intreated permission to buy one, saying he had the money
for it, but as Norwegian Bibles are scarce with us, and we had given
one to his father, we gave him a Testament, enjoining them both to
read them to their neighbours.
In the evening S. G. and I took a little walk by ourselves. The
prospects are romantic, with many small lakes, but the country seems
made of rock; there are, however, many patches of grass and rye, —
a good deal of the latter was cut, and we thought the crops were
heavy." A few of the inhabitants of Stavanger recognize the religious princi
ples of the Society of Friends, and W. A. says —
" On our return Enoch made arrangements with some of those per
sons who profess with us, respecting the meeting on fifth-day.
Eighth Month 26th — About ten o'clock, S. G. and I called upon
the principal magistrate, a sedate man, who has been judge for twenty-
six years.
We had much conversation, through Enoch, on several subjects,
and, amongst the rest, on capital punishment. He said, that in the
district of Stavanger, comprehending forty thousand inhabitants, in the
space of one hundred and forty geographical miles, not one person had
undergone capital punishment for twenty-six years. This is only in
flicted for murder or high treason. The cases of theft, he says, may
generally be traced to idleness, and the average number in that period
is only about six or seven per year. For small offences, persons are
imprisoned in their own houses, upon their parole. In the afternoon
we went to wait upon a person who is a Lutheran, and holds the office
of dean; we spent about an hour with him, and were kindly received.
We conversed about Bible Society business ; he says that there is a
great want of Bibles amongst them, and that out of five or six hundred
families in Stavanger, not more than fifty have a Bible,. — that the peo
ple are willing to subscribe and pay for them, and some have actually
paid, but they cannot get them from the so called Bible Society of
Christiania. We propose to attend to this subject when we go there.
A young priest, named Lange, lately come from Christiania, came in,
and we had a good deal of conversation about schools, and also on
religious subjects, which seemed to make an impression. The dean
expressed great regard for our religious society as a body, and after

272 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
this conference, which appeared of considerable importance, we parted
in love. We then went to the house of Lars Larsen, a carpenter, who
is considered firmly settled in the principles of Friends. A young
man, a fisherman, who lives with him, also professes with us, and had
been rowing a considerable distance in his boat, till his hands were
blistered, to give notice of the meeting to-morrow. We sat down
together to wait upon the Lord, and presently two young women, in
the station of servants, came in also, and truly we were favoured in
silence, to feel that which is beyond words : our hearts were contrited,
and after a considerable time, dear Stephen addressed them, Enoch
Jacobson interpreting sentence by sentence. These simple-hearted
people were much affected, and yet comforted. I added a few words
towards the close. We next went to the farther end of the town to
call upon Enoch's mother ; his sister, who is married and has four
children, lives with her, and his youngest sister was also there. We
had a religious opportunity with them, in which Stephen had much
valuable matter to communicate ; they seemed Contrited.
Eighth Month 21th. — We went a little way out of Stavanger to Lars
Larsen's to attend the usual meeting ; there were seven men beside
ourselves, and about as many women, also two children. After we had
remained some time in silence, S. Grellet spoke in ministry, Enoch,
as usual, interpreting ; prayer was then vocally offered, which was also
interpreted. Towards the close of the meeting the propriety of estab
lishing a system of discipline, adapted to the circumstances of those
professing with Friends in this place, was submitted to them. Several
expressed their concurrence with, our proposal; they appeared in a
tender state, and I believe were much comforted."
A few plain rules of discipline were accordingly prepared, and being
much approved by the little community, were gladly, received and
adopted. The help thus afforded to these simple-hearted people was
evidently very seasonable, and W. A. speaks with satisfaction of the
religious intercourse which he and S. G. had with them ; he however
enlarges less on this, than on some other subjects, observing that a
particular account of their visit here had been sent to their friends in
London. In continuing the dairy W. A. says — ¦
"We went to dine with G. S. Keiland, at his country house about
a mile out of town ; it stands upon a commanding eminence, is large
and built of brick; much of the country around is covered with heath
and stones, and KeilandV fine grounds and plantations were formerly
in the same state, but now he has many fertile meadows with good rich
grass ; he keeps about forty cows and several horses ; they are smaller
than our's, have short backs, and are strong built. He had invited
Judge Lowold, Dean Storen, and the young priest Lange, to meet us.

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 273
We were cordially received by our host, who took us by the hand
and bade us welcome to his house and to the country ; he appears to
have read much, and is a man of considerable information ; having
been in England he was acquainted with the religious principles of
Friends, and says that he several times attended our meetings for wor
ship, in London ; he seems to have a respect for the society. At dinner
he placed Stephen on one side of him, and me on the other, and his
married daughter sat at the head of the table ; he has three other
daughters and two sons. We were treated with the greatest kindness,
and had much conversation on various subjects. I endeavoured to
excite a zeal in them to promote useful associations, and I think we
shall set them to work in the Bible cause ; there is such a scarcity of
Bibles in Norway that even Priest Lange is obliged to borrow one for
himself. I think this visit will render the way easier for the Friends
here. Eighth Month 28th— About eleven o'clock Dean Storen and the
Priest Lange came, and we had a long and satisfactory conference with
them on the subject of the Bible. Dean Storen thought that if he had
a thousand Bibles he coulddispose of them all, and even sell the greatest
part of them in three months, and it was finally agreed that they should
describe their wants in a letter to Steinkopff; they propose to ask for
four hundred Bibles and two hundred Testaments ; to have One-third
gratis, to give to the poor ; one-third to pay half-price for ; and one-
third the full price. They are to send us their letter, and we are to
enclose it in one to Steinkopff, recommending their request to immediate
attention. The subject of those professing with us was brought for
ward, and the Dean again expressed, very strongly, his approbation of
the principles of our religious society. On entering further into them,
we came to what are called the sacraments. I told the young Priest
that we were far from condemning those who think it right to use what
they call the ordinances, on the contrary, I believed that many pious per
sons found comfort in them ; but then he must allow that the edification
did not arise from the form, but from a feeling of the Divine Spirit
operating in the heart, that the forms without this would do nothing for
us, and where it was witnessed the forms were not absolutely necessary.
We parted in love, giving a Bible to the young Priest, for which he
seemed very thankful ; we also gave them four Danish Bibles and two
Danish Testaments to distribute to the poor.
In the afternoon we set out to walk about four miles to the house of
Ever Halverston ; soon after passing Keiland's country house, we
entered upon a heath, over which rocks and stones were scattered in
great profusion. Some of the masses were six or seven feet high ;
they are composed of granite and clay slate, with veins of quartz twisted
in a very curious manner; much of this is decomposing by the weather,
Vol. I. 18

274 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
and obviously has a mixture of iron. As we advanced we saw piles
of turf set up to dry, and a great expanse of heath, consisting of thick
black mould, which might certainly be cultivated to great advantage ;
quick lime would answer exceedingly well here, or even oyster shells.
It would be an excellent plan to give a certain number of square yards
to each poor family in Stavanger who would engage to cultivate it for
potatoes, &c. We passed some farm houses where large patches had
been cultivated, and they were cutting oats, &c., which seemed remark
ably strong and high."
Some of those professing with Friends suffered much from the oppo
sition of members of their own family, and W. A. says —
" We were glad that we came here, if it were only to enable us to
sympathize with these poor people. Stephen had something very suit
able to offer, which Enoch interpreted, and I felt it my duty to state
the nature of the christian religion,' that its fruit was love, &c. I had
relief and peace in these remarks.
I find that G. S. Keiland is mayor of the town ; he is an opulent
man, and owns about two-thirds of the houses in Stavanger ; he sent
me, to-day, two volumes in Danish, on the subject of their schools, as
a present to the British and Foreign School Society ; he also sent me
an introductory letter to their Bishop, at Christiania
Eighth Month 29th  G. S. Keiland called, not, as he .said, out of
compliment, but from affectionate regard, and we had some interesting
conversation ; I told him of the observations I had made yesterday,
upon the nature of the soil, and suggested the propriety of allowing a
certain portion of land to the poor people of Stavanger ; he said that
he had actually made a beginning, but the prejudices of the poor were
such that they could hardly be prevailed upon to adopt anything new ;
he had, however, found one man, who seemed to have some spirit for
the thing ; I told him if only one could be brought to- lead the way,
others, seeing his success, might be induced to follow. The afternoon
was devoted to the meeting, for the settlement of the rules of discipline;
feelings of solemnity and sweetness prevailed, and the business was
got through satisfactorily.
Eighth Month 30th. — The Friends here hold two meetings on first-
day ; they have hired a large room,, which is well adapted for the pur
pose ; more came this morning than we expected, and there were
about fifty present in all ; the people were remarkably quiet, and it was
a satisfactory time. After dinner I felt sweetly comforted with a sense
of the divine presence and love ; and about three o'clock we prepared
to go to the afternoon meeting. I was apprehensive that it would be
crowded ; curiosity having been excited by the meeting in the morning,
and moreover, they have no public worship in the afternoon, every
third first-day, because the preacher goes to another place, and this

1818. OE WILLIAM ALLEN. 275
happened to be the case to-day.. When we reached the place, we
found it rather difficult to get in ; the room was soon filled, and a great
many were upon the stairs ; indeed, I was really afraid of some mischief
from squeezing, more than two hundred being in the room — most of
them were standing ; considering all circumstances, they behaved as
as well as we could expect ; and Stephen had a long and satisfactory
communication, in ministry ; after it was over the people seemed de
sirous of shaking hands with us, and nothing but respect was shown
us ; Enoch acquitted himself exc eedingly well as interpreter.
G. S. Keiland sent his servant with a present for the Bible Society,
of an old and scarce copy of the Danish Bible, 1589, and the Old
Testament in four volumes, an ancient edition, which I am to forward.
I am particularly pleased with this circumstance, as the acknowledg
ment which the society must send will open the door for correspondence,
and for the wide diffusion of the Bible here.
Dean Storen came to our inn in the evening and brought his nephew
with him, a very agreeable and, I believe, a pious young man ; he
speaks English pretty well, and we conversed a good deal about the
Bible cause and schools. The good old dean brought the letter which
we advised him to write to Dr. Steinkopff, representing the want of
Bibles here. We had some religious conversation with him, and
found him very near in spirit. He seemed a good deal affected at
parting with us. Thus the dear Master was pleased to crown this
day's work with success. A pious young man, a farmer, called apd
begged to buy a Testament ; he was very earnest to pay for it, but we
insisted on presenting him with one : we have numerous applications
of a similar kind.
We learn that there are no manufactories at Stavanger ; some of the
inhabitants are employed in agriculture, and many of them support
themselves by fishing. A labourer can earn about three rix dollars per
day, equal f o one shilling and ' six-pence of our money. The women
spin flax, which is not grown in the country, but imported, and they
sometimes can earn two rix dollars per day.
The average price of potatoes is about two shillings per bushel, the
bread is made of oats and rye or barley, a loaf of rye bread, bran and
all in it weighing three pounds, ^heir weight, eighteen ounces to the
pound, costs a rix dollar, equal to six-pence.
It is said that all the children of the poor are educated, and the regu
lations of the country make it absolutely necessary, for they cannot set
up in business, or marry, or perform any acts as citizens, unless they
are able to read : all must be examined and confirmed when they are
fifteen years of age, and for this purpose they must be able to read.
This statement must obviously relate to towns and villages, as those

276 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
who are scattered in the country have not the means. They have
several small schools, but education is not well conducted.
About sixty or seventy persons out of the whole population, which,
including the neighbourhood is about four thousand, are supported by
charity. The general state of morals is reported to be pretty good, and the
police is so well conducted,, that if any thing were lost in the middle
of the street, it would be soon found and restored.
Eighth Month 31st  This morning we made several calls, and visited
the schools* and their little prison. In the afternoon we had a precious
religious opportunity with most of those who are considered members
of our society ; about twelve were present ; these poor people were very
tender and broken, and we parted with them under strong feelings of
sympathy and affection.
Ninth Month 1st'. — We were called between five and six this morn
ing, fhe captain, with whom we were going to Christiansand, giving
us notice that he was preparing to get under weigh. Our kind land
lady shed tears on parting with us, and the old man, her husband,
stood looking after us for a, long time after we set sail."
The voyage to Christiansand was very tedious, the wind proving so
boisterous and contrary that the captain was obliged to put into the port
of Tananger, where they remained a few days. W. A. describes the
country here as presenting a picture of desolation ; huge masses of
rock are to be seen in every direction, and yet, in spots between, there
are patches of grass, and little crops of rye, oats, and barley, but no
wheat. On going further into the country, they discovered many acres
of peat moss, and little farm-houses built of wood are here and there
visible. While on board the vessel, he had nearly met with a very
serious accident, which he thus notices : —
" I was seated on the edge of the stern, repeating Olney Hymns,
and watching the grand style in which our little bark dashed through
the tumbling sea, when taking my eyes off for a moment to look at my
watch, there was a violent pitch which tossed me backward into the
boat which was lashed across the stern ; I was not at all hurt, but after
this hint took a lower station.
6th — Though the wind was not fair, the captain was hoping for a
change, and summoned us to go on board. I was reading as usual
after breakfast, and, coming to that verse in the first Epistle to the
Thessalonians, ' Concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not
even as others which have no hope,' I was so affected that I was
* All, poor schools are maintained by a tax upon the'inhabitants, and are absolutely under
the control of the clergy ; a school might, however, be supported by subscription, in which
case the clergy would have nothing to do with it.

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 277
obliged to stop ; we sat some time in silence, and dear Stephen had to
administer consolation. We have had some sweet opportunities of
worship on board the vessel."
The next day they arrived at Christiansand, which W. A. says —
" Is quite upon a level and covers much ground ; the streets are
very wide, and are paved with rough stones and irregular flat slabs of
rock. The town is supported principally by commerce in deals, fish,
&c. We saw an extensive timber yard where there were two saw
mills worked by water."
The letters of introduction with which they had been furnished,
procured them a very kind reception ; they inspected the schools and
prison, the latter of which is small and only contained four prisoners,
and on fourth-day they dined with P. Isaachson, the principal merchant
in the place ; his family being absent, the company consisted entirely
of gentlemen, about twenty of whom were present. W. A. says —
"We were first assembled in a large room beautifully papered with
coloured representations of natural scenery, and figures very well exe
cuted. Here we stood conversing in groups, and soon felt ourselves
quite at home. We were pleased with the order and hospitality which
reigned. The principal magistrate dined with us, and we had much
conversation about the poor, &C. I find that the population of the place
is very rapidly increasing, and there are more children than can be well
educated, so that the necessity of schools upon our plan is manifest. I
think I never saw more ease of behaviour, frankness and genuine hos
pitality than in our host ; he seems a man of sincerity, and with much
firmness of character is alive to the finer feelings of the heart. After
dinner, the company on rising shook hands,* and went down to the
large room below where coffee was handed, and we conversed freely
in little parties. We had a satisfactory opportunity of informing the
minds of the company upon several important subjects, and of present
ing them with tracts, and I think that good was done. P. I. then
conducted us to a large establishment, founded by his late father for
nine or ten aged women, and for the free education of a number of
poor children ; it is a very large wooden building, and the inscription
in Norwegian over the door, imports instruction to the young and rest
for the aged. This is a fine example of private benevolence. In the
evening, the Prevot, who is the principal person next to the Bishop,
called upon us; he speaks French, was very cordial and friendly, and
we had much conversation with him. It appears that they are a more
moral people here than in most other parts of Europe, yet they have
suffered loss in this respect in consequence of the war ; he says, how
ever, that they have been recovering a little during the last two years.
He seemed particularly delighted with the account of our schools."
* A practice of the country.

27B LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
The following day William Allen's attention was much occupied in
entering into the state of education and the poor- It appears, from the
testimony of some of the principal inhabitants, that the children were
very imperfectly educated, and that some were not receiving any school
instruction. The poor are a great burden ; and P. Isaachson said that
theyeost him more than all the private expenses of his own family. A
poor family may claim support for each child they have beyond two.
W. A. mentions their going, in the evening, to the house of one of those
persons, called saints.
» They attend the public worship," he says, " but have, also, their
own meetings ; we have not found it our place to go after them, but as
some of them had wished to see us, we Consented to go, and found.
between thirty and forty assembled to meet us — most of them were
men ; they listened very attentively to what we said ; some of them
seemed in a very feeling tender state, and all were respectful and
loving." Ninth Month 11th  The travellers prepared to set out on their
arduous journey to Christiania; they had brought a carriage from Eng
land, but found considerable difficulty in arranging the harness, &c,
to suit it. The plan of travelling, in Norway, is td send forward a
man and horse, called the fore-boot, with orders for horses, at stated
times, at the different stations on the day's journey ; each of the neigh
bouring farmers is obliged, in turn, to furnish a man and horse for
posting ; these are bound to wait three hours, and if the traveller does
not arrive before the expiration of that period, they are at liberty to
return, and to claim payment ; as the man must generally walk, it
shows the usual rate of posting in that country. The adjustments
were, at length, completed, and the horses, four in number, were
brought to draw together, but the roads, to an English traveller, ap
pear almost impassable, being generally a succession of ridges of rocks,
with, sometimes, small pines among them. On one occasion, W. A.
says —
"We came to a great piece of rock, which had fallen into the road, ,
so that there was not room for the carriage to pass between it and the
precipice ; there were, however, some spars of pine near, and using
them as levers and stones as fulcrums, the four men and we succeeded
in moving the rock, so as to allow sufficient space for the carriage."
The toil and exertion, during this day's journey, were extreme; in
some places they were compelled, in consequence of the miserable
state of fhe roads, to assist in pulling the carriage up the ascents, and
also to check the velocity of the descent ; they were the whole day in
travelling rather less than twenty English miles ; the Norwegian mile
is equal to seven English. In the second day's journey they accom
plished about thirty English miles. W. A. remarks—

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 279
" I saw a little patch of wheat,- for the first time, but it was only a
few yards — it looked pretty well ; I also saw some hops and a little
hemp." He had strained his knee in some of his efforts, and this, with an
other day's exertion, and very little food, made him feel much exhausted
on their arrival at Arendal, which they reached about half-past nine ;
they then had to walk a considerable distance to the inn, passing
through narrow, steep, stony alleys, for there was nothing, he says,
deserving the name of streets. Not having had any dinner for two
days, they much relished some excellent mutton chops.
" Ninth Month 13th  We dined with A. H. Dedecamp, to whom
we had letters of introduction ; he is one of the principal merchants
here, and received us very kindly ; he introduced us to his wife and a
fine family of children, and a numerous party of his friends. We had
an opportunity for much useful conversation, and distributed several
tracts amongst them ; they were very open and kind, and the longer
we staid the greater was the openness. I like what I have seen of the
Norwegian character, — there is much frankness in it ; it seems, in many
respects, to resemble the English. I should think that, in general,
they were an honest simple-hearted people, and they are remarkable
for th'eir hospitality. When dinner was announced Dedecamp led the
way, taking one of the females by the hand. The party consisted of
between forty and fifty persons ; the ladies all sat at the bottom of the
table, where Dedecamp's wife presided. There are some fine looking
young people in Norway, and I could but long that their minds might
be properly opened. We came away between, four and five. Arendal
is a great sea-port, and very large vessels ride near the shore ; it is
built upon rocks, and the houses are erected just where they could find
a place for them ; the foundations of some are one hundred feet above
the tops of others. On returning to the inn I retired to my chamber
and felt my mind, which had been low before, comfortably stayed on
God. A person, who is one of those denominated saints, called upon
us and asked us to visit them, which we agreed to do, and went to
take coffee with them about seven o'clock. He and his wife seem
pious well-disposed persons ; we afterwards had a religious opportunity
with about seven or eight of them, when there was something precious
to be felt."
On proceeding further through the country the next day, the roads
still retained the same steep and rocky character. W. A. thus describes
the perilous situation in which they were once placed : —
" We came to a most terrible hill, extremely steep ; and when, with
great exertion, we had got all the five horses to act together for a few feet,
we were obliged to stop to let them rest, and block the wheels with
stones ; thus proceeding, with frequent stops, we got about half-way

280 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
up. The road then turned sharp round, and here, we were in great
alarm, for the turn being so short, the fore wheel got into such a posi
tion that there was the most imminent risk of going down the precipice ;
we saw that it would be very dangerous to remove the stones from the
wheels, even if the horses should be able to draw on, and the road
continuing very steep, it seemed as if we could not make any more
way without peril. On taking time to consider, it seemed- best to alter
the position of the carriage a few inches at a time, and we succeeded
at last with great exertion, and by literally putting our shoulders to
the wheel, to get round this dangerous turn. It was unfavourable for
us that, this stage, three of our drivers were boys instead of men. Dear
Stephen is extremely clever in acting as well as contriving, and Enoch
is indefatigable and of the greatest use to us. If we had not had. a
person at each wheel, wTith a large stone in his hand, the horses would
at times have been overpowered; we were favoured to reach the top.
in safety, after an hour and a half of unremitted exertion. In descend
ing the hill we were obliged to have the two hind wheels locked.
We have seen several white pines to-day; this is a very ornamental
tree wilh thick foliage of a deep green, and the branches hanging very
gracefully almost to the ground, the bark is a shining white ; in some
places a little flax is cultivated, and we have also seen some crops of
potatoes. In parts where pines have been cut down, the stumps are
burnt to a coal; this, Enoch says, is their method of bringing the land
into cultivation, for in six years they calculate on the stumps being
decayed, and they then plough the land.
One of our drivers is a steady intelligent man and a schoolmaster;
the plan for the country schools is to have a schoolmaster for the parish
who keeps school for a week at one farm house, then a week at the
next, and so taking them in course, all the, children following from one
house to another ; he is about a year in making his round ; the most
remote of the children have only about three miles to go ; he had no
Testament, and was made happy in being presented with one. Their
Catechisms, &c, are the principal books read in the schools. Among
the higher classes in Norway there appears to be a tendency to scepti
cism, and among the lower to bigotry.
We arrived at our station about five o'clock, and were not able to
proceed farther; we have travelled about twenty-five miles to-day.
Ninth Month 15th. — Rose at twenty minutes past, four; we have
taken six horses for this stage. Here a poor sailor, a Dane, born at
Copenhagen, and who had followed us from Christiansand, overtook
us ; he is a prisoner, and yet going alone to Laurvig to prison to take
his trial for deserting from a gun boat, about five years ago ; he begged
to go with us for subsistence by the way ; he speaks English, and we
took him along with us. The stations are almost always single houses.

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 281
We are continually obliged to get in and out of the carriage, and to
walk a great part of the way : the whole face of the country resembles
waves, but they are masses of rocks from two hundred to five hundred feet
high, mostly covered with pines, and in constant succession ; hence an
idea may be formed of the nature of the roads ; it is most dangerous to
travel at the breaking up of a frost. The large rocks which have fallen
down lie scattered in all directions, and from Ode Garten we were
obliged to have seven horses. This afternoon's exertion exceeded
any thing we have yet encountered ; it was next to impossible to make
all the horses draw together, and after we had proceeded three miles
we came to a terrible hill ; it was exceedingly steep, and the road boggy
with loose stones ; we had a person stationed at each wheel, to help to
push when the horses made an effort, and put stones to block when
they began to flag, but with our utmost exertions we often did not
gain an inch ; in this way we worked for several hours, but as we apr
proached the top the ascent became steeper, and we could not possibly
proceed further. It was in vain to think of sending for horses, as in
these deserts the persons who furnish them often live miles apart, and
it generally takes four hours to collect them at a station — this is the
reason that a person is sent forward to order them at certain hours. It
was now eight o'clock, and getting quite dark ; we had had no dinner,
and were faint and exhausted ; my left knee was more strained by my
efforts at the wheel, so that it hurt me much when I walked, and my
clothes were covered with dust and dirt. It was now plain that we
must encamp here for the night, and we made up our minds to it very
calmly. We had some bread and cheese, and some hung beef, which
our kind friend Ann Alexander had provided for us at Ipswich. The
first thing we did was to send one of the men forward on horseback to
order six horses to be brought to us by four o'clock in the morning :
-we then sent our sailor with one of the men to a house about two miles
off to forage, and discharged the rest, who were very glad to go home.
Dear Stephen and I were now left quite alone upon one of the hills of
Norway ; we however felt peaceful and tranquil in mind, resolving to
make the best of it. When Enoch and the sailor returned, they brought
some milk, boiled eggs, and potatoes ; we then collected wood, which
in this country is very abundant, and prepared to make a fire among
the great blocks of granite by the road side. It was very cold, my
feet were wet, and I think I never felt a fire more acceptable ; we
brought forward a pole for a seat, took out our plates, &c, and pre
pared our repast. Nothing can exceed dear Stephen's kindness and
care of me, but my mind is so constituted, that unless I can see him
better off than myself, this attention rather distresses me. Dear Enoch
waits upon us with filial attention, and we mutually endeavour to make
one another comfortable. About half-past nine the moon rose in a clear

282 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
sky, and after supper I repeated some poetry to them, amongst the
rest, Pope's 'Universal Prayer,' Prior's ' Charity,' and Addison's 'How
are thy servants blest, 0 Lord,' &c. Stephen and I got into the car
riage and slept, or rather dozed for some hours ; Enoch, the sailor, and
the lad, lay down by the fire ; the weather was very favourable. At
break of day, I heard the trampling of the horses, and whilst they were
harnessing we boiled our kettle, made some tea in it, and all had an
excellent breakfast. We soon found that the horses were far superior
to those which had left us in our present position, and after a few vigor
ous efforts they drew the carriage to the top of the hill, for which I felt
very thankful. The hill is called Torne-Bakkin, or Thorn-hill. The
morning was beautiful ; we saw pine-covered hills in succession, with
occasionally pretty little lakes. It seems astonishing how those trees
which are growing upon the very rocks, can rise to such a height, but
I see by several which have been blown down, that their roots spread
horizontally among the peaty Covering, and are likewise insinuated into
the very clefts of the rocks. As we proceeded the roads were so bad,
and the hills so desperate, I thought it might be a providence that we
had been stopped where we were, for if we had arrived at the^top of
the hill, we might have been tempted to try in the dark to reach our
station, and have met with a very serious accident."
After passing a ferry to Brevig, they proceeded by water to Hel-
geerauen ; between that place and Laurvig the face of the country be
comes changed, the roads are good, cultivation appears, and several
farm houses are in view. Laurvig, where they lodged, is a consider
able sea-port ; the streets are very quiet — no traffic in them, or shops ;
it is supported by shipping and iron works, where about one hundred
persons are employed. Like all the other towns the houses are built
of wood ; there are many poor, and a tax for their support is levied
upon each house.
" Ninth Month 18th. — Started with five horses ; the road excellent ;
there is a new regulation in these parts with regard to providing tra
vellers with horses. The farmers agree with one person to supply horses
at a station, for which they have to give him a certain quantity of corn and
hay yearly ; he then engages to furnish every traveller at once with horses,
for which he is to receive half pay more than the old system. The govern
ment has proposed that this plan should be adopted through the whole
country. We have seen many snow ploughs at different distances as we tra
velled along ; they are to clear the roads for the sledges. We have also
noticed a great number of ant hills ; they rise to the height of two feet,
some larger — others smaller. In the evening we arrived at Holmestrand,
a sea-port, and one of the largest towns in Norway.
Ninth Month 19th. — Started with four horses, the road good ; Enoch

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 283
drives, and makes an excellent coachman ; this morning we passed
close to perpendicular rocks full four hundred feet high, large masses
hanging above in the most fearful manner, and the ruins of those which
have fallen lie scattered about. At a little after twelve we arrived at
a large place called Dram or Drammen, and concluded to stay here
to-morrow (first-day) ; in the afternoon we delivered our letters of
introduction. 20th. — First-day. Dear Stephen and I, last evening, mentioned to
our landlady, who is a serious character, that we should hold our
meeting up stairs, at ten o'clock as usual, and that if the family chose,
they might join us, or if they knew of any persons who would be also
inclined to come we did not object, though we did not see our way to
give any other invitation. They were quite disposed to attend, but did
not seem to remember any others ; however, when the time came, about
twenty persons sat down with' us, and the number was soon increased
to about fifty. They behaved extremely well, and indeed it was like
a Friends' meeting. A solemnity prevailed ; Enoch interpreted admira
bly what was communicated, and our minds were much relieved.
When the meeting broke up the people parted with us very respectfully,
almost every one of them taking us by the hand. If we had given the
least encouragement for another meeting we should have had the house
full, but under all circumstances, we concluded that it was best not to
do so, as we had not yet had an opportunity of explaining to the govern
ment our object in travelling, which we hope to do at Christiania and
Stockholm. The principal magistrate, a sedate elderly man, called, and we had
a good deal of interesting conversation with him, through Enoch — I
trust it will have its use. We afterwards had a time of worship with
Lars Munsen, a person who has some connexion with Friends, and his
housekeeper, who seems in a tender State. Our landlord and landlady
supped with us; a pause for religious retirement ensued, and we both
addressed them : the latter was much broken and contrited.
Ninth Month 21st. — My mind is peaceful ; I think at some period
way will open more largely for the spreading of the truth here. We
started with five good horses ; the prospect of the country is very pretty ;
the arm of the sea, with its little islands, the ridges of rocks, covered
with pines, the farm houses, in various directions, with the pastures,
and the autumnal tints of the trees, make a fine landscape ; though it
wants that softness which we admire in England. About two o'clock
we arrived at Christiania ; the houses are built of brick, and plastered,
the streets are broad and airy, and the pavement round stones. It has
been quite plain, during this journey, that we did right in bringing our
harness with us. We put up at Werner's inn ; the people are civil, but
speak neither English nor French ; Enoch is still with us.

284 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818-
Christiania contains about ten thousand inhabitants ; there are large,
square, wooden cisterns in the middle of the principal streets, into
which a fountain of clear warter is always running ; they have excellent
wharfs for shipping, and large store houses, built of logs; there are
vast quantities of deals packed up along the water side, ready to be
shipped. 22nd. — We delivered some of our letters of introduction, but several
persons were out ; Count Engestrom is at Stockholm. In the evening Otto
Collett called upon us ; he is in the prime of life, with frank, open
manners ; he says that the poor of Christiania are distributed among the
neighbouring farmers — one, two, or three to each, who give them food
and clothing, for any little service they may be capable of performing,
and the parish officers are bound to see that they are not over-worked
or ill-treated. I should think this plan liable to great abuse, and that
the burden lies too heavy upon the farmers.
23rd. — Fifth-day. . We went to Canute Halverston's, a person pro
fessing with Friends, to attend their small meeting, which is held in a
room well adapted for the purpose ; there were about eight men pre
sent besides ourselves, and four women ; I felt something sweet and
peaceful. We afterwards waited upon N. Treschow, who is counsellor of state,
and one of the principal members of the government here. I find he is
the person whose office it is to report to Stockholm, respecting our
Friends ; we had much conversation upon our principles, and also on
schools, &c."
W. A. had a list of queries on subjects connected with education,
the state of the poor, the morals of the country, &c, and he says—
"I showed him my list of queries, with which he seemed pleased,
and said that information on all these points, regularly came to his
office : and he offered to give me answers for all Norway, which I grate
fully accepted; we are so much pleased with this interview,- that we
think it would fully compensate us for coming to Christiania.
Ninth Month 24th. — We were engaged to dine with our friend Col
lett, to-day, at his country seat, about two miles distant ; it commands
a fine view of an arm of the sea, with several little islands, and has a
good deal of land attached to it. Our kind host met us on the steps,
and introduced us to his wife and aunt Martini Collett, who resides
with them. The latter is a clever, benevolent person, and speaks
English quite well ; her husband, who died about eight years ago, was
universally beloved for his public spirited and amiable qualities ; he was
a zealous friend to the education of the poor, and his widow keeps up
an establishment, in the country, for eighty children. We met N. Tres
chow here ; he was dressed in full uniform, and many others also were
covered with gold lace and stars ; among them was Count Mornen, the

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 285
principal governor, who is called Stadtholder ; he is a very sedate
elderly man, and speaks French, but not English ; dear Stephen was
placed next to him, and I sat by N. Treschow ; an agreeable young
Russian was at my other side, and I had much interesting conversation
with bofh'my companions, respecting our religious principles, war, &c,
which was very satisfactory ; these parties give us an opportunity of
making the views of Friends known.
The company, consisting of twenty-six, seemed to comprise the prin
cipal persons of the place ; we were treated with great kindness and
cordiality, and I believe that many of them felt love for us. We had
also some very agreeable conversation with Dean Monck, who is a
friend to the Bible cause. The governor interests himself much about
prison discipline, and is one with us in our views ; he has offered fo
show us their prisons on seventh-day. He says that not more than three
persons are put to death in a year, in all Norway, and about the same
number in Sweden.
We dined in a room of polygonal form, and sat at the largest round
table I have ever seen; it was several yards in diameter; the dinner
was carried round by several men servants, who were followed by others
with sauce, &6. After about two hours the company rose, shook hands,
and retired into the other rooms ; here I had a good opportunity for
conversation with the worthy widow ; I gave her a school manual, with
which she was much pleased. She and her nephew quite insisted upon
our leaving the inn, and taking up our quarters with them, saying that
we should do just as if we were at home ; we had some difficulty in
excusing ourselves, but compounded by promising to dine with them,
by themselves, to-morrow. We returned to our inn thankful in be
lieving that this visit had been of service."
Ninth Month 25th. — After mentioning a visit to an orphan school,
&c, with Christian Semb, W. A. says —
" Our friend Collett, again sent his carriage for us, and we had a
family dinner with them much to our satisfaction.
The party was select, consisting of himself, his wife, and his aunt
Martini Collett, with two of her nieces, and his brother-in-law Iver
Steen. We were received, as before, in a very frank open manner, and
had much free conversation respecting war, the education of the poor,
&c, &c. In the afternoon the subject of religion was resumed, and
we had an opportunity of stating our views on the nature of true wor
ship and gospel ministry, much to the relief of my mind. This seems
to be the only way of introducing such topics here ; we left several
tracts with them. Martini Collett appeared in a very tender feeling
state ; I am to send her that number of the ' Philanthropist,' which
contains an account of E. J. Fry's exertions at Newgate, and also the

286 LUFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
two volumes of Clarkson's Abolition ;* Otto Collett is warmly with us
on the subject of the Abolition of the Slave Trade.
;. I find there is a great stagnation of trade in the towns of Norway ;
that the farmers,, also, have suffered greatly, and are not able to pay
their taxes ; and that the mode in which individuals are assessed and
taxes levied, produces much dissatisfaction, and even leads fo feelings
of animosity, which form a barrier to persons cordially co-operating in
works of benevolenCe. Indeed, the weight of the taxes is a universal
complaint, but there is every prospect that things will 'mend, and, that
when the present pressure is got over, which I hope will soon be the
case, if the country remains at peace, Norway will be stronger, and
more prosperous than before. All speak highly of the King, and of his
disposition to do every thing that is possible for the good of his people.
Ninth Month 26th; — We waited on the Governor, according to
appointment, and were very kindly received ; he sent one of his officers
with us to the castle, and to the house of correction; there are one
hundred and eight convicts in the castle, some of whom are committed
for life; they are sometimes liberated, when their conduct has been
good, but there are very few such cases, and it has been observed that
they corrupt one another, and that new comers who are not deeply sunk
in crime, become moulded into the spirit of the mass, and are generally
irretrievably lost.
The house of correction contains one hundred and forty-nine prison
ers, rather more than two-thirds of whom are men and boys-; there is
no classification, and the men and women are at full liberty to meet
during the day ; fhey are employed in the manufactory of woollen and
linen cloth, but receive no part of their earnings. We inquired
whether there was a school in the prison, and were informed that there
was one for those who had not been confirmed. We were shocked to
find about twenty young persons confined here, not for any crime, but
merely because they had neglected to learn their catechism, and conse
quently could not be confirmed by the priest ; thus they were sent,
literally and avowedly, to be prepared for confirmation, to a place where
they were confined with felons and criminals of all descriptions. Some
* Some years afterwards William Allen 'received a letter from Martini Collett in which
she says —
" I hope, my good friend Dr. Miiller has expressed to you how sorry I was that I- had not
the pleasure of seeing you last autumn. I owe you, dear sir, many obligations for all the
excellent books you were kind enough, to send me, several years ago j I often peruse them,
and read them over again, with the same intereet.-^God Almighty bless you and reward
you for all the good you are promoting to your fellow-creatures ; may you, many years to
come, create blessings to all around you. We all remember you, with great regard, and
would feel happy if you, once more, would visit our rough and cold climate. All my family
bid me to present their best compliments, and permit me to jsubscrib* myself with great
regard, your obliged friend, M. C. S. Collett."

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 287
amongst them were from twenty to thirty years of age. The officers
who accompanied us joined in expressing their abhorrence of this
measure, but in this country such is the sway of the clergy, that a
person not confirmed is almost considered an outlaw. We stated our
feelings very freely, and have reason to think that the matter will be
taken up.
We visited the prison hospitals, where men and women are mixed
together without any regard to feelings of delicacy. The officers, as
well as ourselves, were shocked at this also, and said they never before
knew that such was the practice.
In the afternoon we had a solid religious opportunity with Enoch
Jacobson, Canute and Ann Halverston, and the young lawyer Soren
Schutz, who are to become the first members of our society here,
according to the principles agreed to, at Stavanger. It ended satis
factorily. In the closing pause, I had to offer them a little encourage
ment. We afterwards went some distance to take tea at the house of
a merchant named Erichson, who, with some of his family, were piously
disposed, and seemed leaning towards the principles of Friends : we
had a precious religious meeting with them.
Ninth Month 21th. — We went to meeting at ten ; there were about
twelve, men present and seven women ; my mind was low, but I thought
we were favoured with the Lord's presence amongst us ; in the after
noon a few more persons attended than in the morning ; I ventured to
precede my dear companion in addressing them, and had solid peace
in this movement.
We took tea at Christian Semb's ; he is a man with whom I am
much pleased, and who may be depended upon for co-operation in
works of public utility. Professors Hersleb and Stennison came, in
order to- converse with us on the subject of the Bible Society here ; we
find the impediment to that cause is, that they refuse to keep the funds
separate from those designed. for the supply of catechisms, &c. ; and
the subscribers in Norway complain that what they gave for Bibles,
was spent in printing catechisms. The priests seem afraid of the
Scriptures being circulated, unaccompanied by their explanations and
conjectures. They promise to write to Steinkopff, when they have
concluded whether to separate the concern or not. I felt much relieved
and comforted by this day's work.
Ninth Month 28th.-— Preparing to leave Christiania. Iver Steen,
who is a superintendent of the roads, has been of essential service, in
making out our route to Stockholm, with a list of what is to be paid ;
he has, also, provided us with a coachman ; indeed, both he and Otto
Collett have studied how they could be most useful, and their kind
assistance has been a real help to us. We started between twelve and
one o'clock, very quietly and without any bustle ; a great contrast to

288 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
our set-out from Christiansand. Enoch is still with us, and sits by the
coachman, who seems a clever man. The roads are goodj but hilly ;
in many parts the country is beautiful, resembling Switzerland. Stephen
and I have now concluded to converse wholly in French, in order to
qualify me to speak the language with more facility."
The travellers proceeded, with much less inconvenience than on their
former journey, though they again had difficulties to encounter from
restive horses, particularly at the hills. As they advanced, they found
cultivation increasing, and the cattle were finer and more numerous.
In passing through some of the pine forests, they observed extensive
traces of the ravages of fire, and learnt from the drivers that, during
the struggle with Sweden in 1814, wicked people went about to set
fireto^tlje woods, and in some places many miles of valuable firs were
Jp^oyld. " ^They passed through some wretched little hamlets of log
houses, but W\ A. says —
V <,^^The views) are often very picturesque and romantic ; the combina-
tioA'bf rocks', ipines and water, produces a fine effect."
^OntW'fOth, he writes—
j \ X*> We. 'came to the division between Norway and Sweden ; it is
"Tfrefely a path between the pines, in the forest, except that there is a
circular pile of rough masonry, about five feet high and six feet in
diameter. We afterwards arrived at a great forest of pines, far superior
to those of Norway; some of them are of large size, and the stems are
clean, and without branches for thirty or forty feet from the ground;
the Norway pine is, however, closer grained, and better fitted for fine
work, as sash frames, &c. We begin to. see the white rein-deer moss."
After advancing farther, he says —
"The children are ragged, but have sweet innocent countenances;
there is, apparently, more poverty here than in Norway. We saw
many old people as we passed along ; the climate appears healthy."
At the close of one day of great exertion, when they were travelling
late, he remarks —
" During this stage in the dark, my mind was sweetly supported by
the precious feeling of divine good, and a sense that we were under
best protection.
Tenth Month 2nd. — We have had several fine views of lakes to-day.
In some of the forests there is a mixture of other trees with the pine,
and though they have lost their verdure, the varied hues of the foliage
is still more beautiful. Some whole trees are of a golden yellow, others
all shades of orange, and the ash trees are a blood red. I never before
saw such rich autumnal tints.
The houses we generally meet with in the country have a poor ap
pearance, and are only one story high. They are built of logs just
squared enough to lay one upon another, and in some instances the

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 289
joints are filled up with moss. In passing along we have seen many
oxen at work, ploughing; the. land is well cultivated, and we have
noticed some red clover for the first time, also three bee-hives ; the
fields are subdivided into portions of different sizes, by light wooden
fences, which at a distance resemble a number of cattle pens. We
have travelled about fifty-six miles to-day, and at this statign^Artorp,
are four hundred and ninety-two miles from Christiania. /f'^.r -
Tenth Month 3rd. — As we rode along to-day, my mir/cMjras sweetly
comforted and supported by the renewed precious evidence thai V&m -
in the way of my duty. v ( j n" , f v>
We had been obliged to pay so large a deposit for our c^Kiagd__btVJ;
the frontier, that we had exhausted much more of our Swedish money
than I had calculated upon. On examining into the matter, I found
that we had not enough to carry us through another day, much less to
Stockholm. We had Norway money and a few guineas, with two one
pound Bank of England notes, so at Orebroe, which is a large town, I
sallied forth with Enoch, though we did not know a creature in the
place ; having inquired of the landlord,' who were the principal trades
men, he -informed us of two who lived at some distance in the market
place. It being market day, the square was thronged with people ;
niany of fhe women wore red stockings. The first place we went to
was a large shop in which they seemed to sell every thing from linen
and woollen down to rat traps, qil, salt, &c. They were in high busi
ness with many customers ; the head o^ the concern was out, so we
could do nothing here, and our Norway money could not be exchanged
at all. We then went to another large shopkeeper in the market place ;
his shop was literally thronged with customers from the country; there
were many shopmen, and all so busy that I was afraid they would not
attend to us at all. However, at length we found that the master was
at home, and desiring to see him, the flap of the counter was lifted up,
and wedging our way through the people, we were shown into the
counting-house. He received us with civility, and Enoch explained
our pitiful case ; .but we again found that our Norway money was not
available. I desired Enoch to tell him that we had gold which we
would deposit with him as security for any Swedish money he might
advance, and if hersent it to his correspondentat Stockholm, we would
repay the money and take it up there ; but all would not do, and we
civilly took our leave and returned to the inn. I had little doubt how
ever of ultimate success, and again taking Enoch with me to the mar
ket place, repeated my visit to the person upon whom we first called.
I found him at home ; he heard me with attention, and I showed him
the letters of recommendation which we had for Stockholm ; after suffi
cient explanation he v'ery kindly consented to make an advance upon
the five guineas and the two one pound notes, which he said he would
Vol. I. 19

290 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
send to his correspondent at Stockholm, where we might repay the
money and take them up. We were very grateful for this deliverance,
and with many thanks took our leave and returned to the inn, where
dear Stephen was anxiously waiting the result.
I have observed to-day that the people have not so agreeable an ex
pression of countenance as on the frontiers, and the soil is not so good
as we have lately passed. There are vast quantities of juniper in this
country. Tenth Month 4th  .After reading our chapter as usual this morning,
my mind was peacefully gathered into a precious feeling of unity with
my dear fellow traveller; his spirit feels at times exceedingly near to
me, and I often, think that I am strengthened and comforted by his
secret prayers and exercise of mind. I have been musing on our dear
relations and friends assembled in our meeting, at Gracechurch Street,
and fancy that I see my precious child sitting in her usual place with
Christine by her; I felt such a unity of spirit that it seemed as if I
were sitting in the meeting ; my mind also visited Devonshire House,,
and I thought upon my dear mother and brother Joseph with near
affection ; it was a precious time. Enoch has been relating to us the
particulars of his imprisonment, and convincement of the truth of our
principles; it is highly interesting, and I advise him to write an ac
count of it. , We have felt this to be a. day of favour.
5th. — Rose about five ; started -at half-past six; read two chapters
in Romans as we rode along; my mind was comforted, and dear Ste
phen and I afterwards had a sweet time in silence. We reached
Stockholm between one and two, and on arriving at the gate, were
slightly questioned and suffered to pass. We then proceeded a con
siderable distance to the English hotel, which is kept by a widow
named Johnstone, and is a large quiet house.
As soon as we had settled about our apartments and arranged our
things, I dressed myself and went to wait upon Count Engestrom, with
the letter from Count Moernen, on the subject of my passport, for I
could not feel myself at liberty till that was done. He received us very
respectfully, and the business of the. passport was quickly settled.* I
presented the letter from their Ambassador in London, and we felt that
there was an open door here. Dear Stephen explained the nature of our
visit, with which he seemed well satisfied, and was particularly pleased
that he spoke French. He said, the King had been expecting us for
some time — that he was now in the country, but would return to Stock
holm in a few days, when the Count promised to inform him of our
arrival, and offered his services if we wished for an interview ; we
gladly accepted his kindness on this point, and he politely offered to
* W. Js.. learnt at Christiania, that, on entering Stockholm, Englishmen, though they
have a passport, ought to have an order from the King. — Americans do not require it.

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 291
introduce us to his wife and family, but we excused ourselves, as we
had only received our letters just before we came out, and were earnest
to return to the hotel to read them. We came back with thankful hearts
that the way was so far opening before us. Our accounts from home were
satisfactory, and all this was very refreshing. I had three letters, one
from my beloved child, one from my dear sister Anna Hanbury, and
one from dear John Barry. The details in them were very acceptable
and cordial to my feelings, for though at times I have such strong evi
dence of being in the way of my duty that I am surprised and humbled
at the -condescension of the great and good Master to such a poor crea
ture as I feel myself to be, yet the thoughts of those dear and tender
ties which I have left behind in my native country, prompt the sigh and
the desire to be with them again. I am anxious about my beloved
mother in the approach of this cold season ; I love her more than I can ex
press, but though absent in body, we are at times sweetly united in spirit.
Stockholm is a large place, and! contains ninety thousand inhabitants ;
the principal street is narrow and quite straight for more than a mile ;
there are no footpaths, and the pavement, which is round stones, is very
unpleasant to walk upon. The houses are generally three or four stories
high, and are built .of brick, and plastered. The shops are very similar
to those in the common streets of Paris.
We had an excellent dinner, cooked in our own English fashion,
and afterwards went out to deliver some of our letters of recommenda
tion, which were received with kindness.
Tenth Month 6th. — D. Erskine called and took us to his friend
Phillipsen, who is one of the most philanthropic characters here. He
is a man of considerable property, and devotes almost the whole of his
time to objects of general benevolence. He is at the head of, most of
their public charities, and supports a large school himself; he under
stands very little English or French,. but-Enoch was with us and inter
preted. We told him our object was to promote the best interests of
the people in all nations, when he rose from his seat and cordially took
us by the hand. He was curious to know if we were sent by any par
ticular body, and whether our expenses were paid, to which we returned
suitable answers. We were again engaged in the afternoon, deliver
ing more of our letters of recommendation, which were universally
well received.
1th. — We find that the navigation to Abo will probably be open for
another month, so that we need not be cramped here for a day. George
Fox, the English Consul, called and offered his services ; we had seve
ral other visitors also, and had much interesting conversation with H.
T. Phillipsen.
8th. — After breakfast we went by appointment to Herman T. Phil
lipsen, who, I find, has been engaged in his philanthropic labours about

292 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.'
seven years ; his wife is an amiable woman ,and quite seconds him —
indeed, she seems as busy in the female department as our English
ladies. They have a handsome house with a spacious garden behind, and
at the bottom of this garden is a large building, appropriated to schools
for learning and industry. There are two hundred and fifty children,
sixty of whom are taught at his expense ; we were particularly delighted
to see the happy combination of works of industry with other branches
of useful education. The children are taught to make their own clothes,
from beginning to end, the wool and flax being brought info the house,
and manufactured into garments. In an apartment where the girls were
learning to read, I was pleased to see the New Testament, and to ob
serve that they were questioned as in our own schools ; in another room,
many of the boys were employed as tailors, and others were learning
to make shoes ; the boys work for the girls, and fhe girls for the boys.
Phillipsen's object is that the children should learn to do everything for
themselves, in the plainest and most useful way ; this sight was trujy a
feast to us.
We went, next, to an establishment for the maintenance and educa
tion of twenty-four orphans ; here the same enlightened plan is pursued,
of preparing children, when they grow up, for the management, of a
family ; every thing was in prime order, and perfectly neat and clean'.
We were much pleased with the female superintendent, who evidently
felt what was addressed to the children : we were much gratified with
this visit. The institution is under the care of a committee.
Our kind friend, afterwards, took us to a large establishment, in
which infants, as well as other children, are received ; about three hun
dred and fifty, in all, are boarded in the house. The cleanliness and
neatness of this institution surpasses. any thing of the kind I have ever
witnessed. There is a large gymnasium, where the boys were exercis
ing with wonderful agility, but the part appropriated to infants exhibited
a striking appearance of comfort.
The little sheets on the cots were beautifully clean and white ; the
nurses seem very respectable, good looking, young women, and we
were informed they were selected with great care. A bed for one of
them is placed behind every two little beds, that they may take charge
of the babies during the night. Children may remain till they are four
teen, when, if their parents do not provide for them, they are placed
out by the board ; in other respects, the institution is somewhat similar
to a foundling hospital, except that the names of the parents.must be
known to the directors. Phillipsen spent the evening with us, and
read us a list of the charitable institutions here, which amount to one
hundred and seventeen.
Tenth Month 9th.— We went out again with our worthy friend
Phillipsen, and first visited a parish school for seventy-eight boys ; there

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 293
are no such schools for girls. We then went to the poor-house, which
seemed to be comfortable for persons in a situation to require it — they
have all-separate beds, except the married persons. Several of the in
mates were at work, and some go out in the day to do what they can;
all are allowed to receive their own earnings ; there is a. poor-house for
each parish, on the same plan. We afterwards rode to the alms-house,
or rather retreat for poor citizens, who have been housekeepers, but
are now in reduced circumstances ; it is in a fine situation, at the out
skirts of the town, and has a large garden attached to it. It was, for
merly, the country house of a rich merchant, who left it for this express
purpose ; it has been established about seven years. There are three
or four persons in some of the rooms, in others only one, and in one
room we saw some elegant paintings. The, total number in the institu
tion is thirty-six, but there are out-pensioners also, from amongst whom,
the vacancies which occur in the house are filled up. Great neatness
was observable throughout every part : the cloth was laid in the dining
room,' with a napkin and a silver spoon by each plate ; every person,
on coming in, must bring with him a silver spoon, six napkins, and
some shirts; if he is too poor to furnish them, he is supplied by the
parish, or by some other means; there is a boat kept for them to amuse
themselves on the wator.
~ Christopher Hughes, the American Secretary of Legation, spent the
evening with us ; he is a fine open young man, very sociable, and studies
to render us any service in his power.
Tenth Month 10th,— To-day we have visited the institution for the
widows of citizens. The building is a large substantial mansion, pur
chased for the purpose in 1724. The number in the house is seventy-
three, and there are twenty-seven out-pensioners. Unless, in very
especial cases, none are admitted before the age of fifty-five, and they
are generally sixty. We saw one very respectable person, about ninety-
six years of age ; she was alone, reading in her psalm book, and ap
peared in the full possession of her faculties, she was in excellent
spirits — seemed quite glad to see us, and when I shook hands with her,
put my hands to her lips, saying she wished us to experience the con
solation she felt in a sense of the goodness of the Lord. It was really
quite refreshing to perceive the state of her mind ; indeed, there is a
peaceful feeling throughout the establishment. The female superin
tendent is a remarkably clever woman, and is endued with a precious
degree of religious sensibility. The whole house is a picture of neat
ness ; the table cloth which was laid for dinner looked very white and
clean, and there was a bright pewter soup plate, with another under it,
laid for each person ; they all dine together when they are well enough.
There was a very large Bible in the dining room, and we found that
after dinner one read aloud in it to the rest ; we also noticed Bibles in

294 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
several of the rooms. The clothing of all was very neat and respect
able. 'We saw the remains of one who had lately died, very depently
laid out in a coffin, in aroom adjoining the chapel ; three days always
elapse before the interment. We now took leave of our friend Phillipsen
and went to Belle Vue, about two miles from Stockholm; to call upon
the British Ambassador, Lord Strangford, but he was gone to town to
meet us ; his wife appears an amiable person, and was very kind. We
then went to the town house, where Lord Strangford also received us
with great kindness ; I Und that he is the intimate friend of Lord Sid
mouth; he invited us to dine with him before we left Stockholm, but
we excused ourselves, on account of our engagements and the shortness
Of our stay ; he gives an excellent character of the honesty of the-Swedes.
In this little excursion we saw a great many large barns, with perpen
dicular openings in the sides, for the free admission of air for the drying
of tobacco, of which there seemed a considerable quantity."
First-day appears to have been a peaceful day, they had none to
join them in the worship of God ; and W. A. says, in writing to his
daughter —
« We were rather low in reflecting that, in a place containing ninety
thousand inhabitants, we had not yet met with that spiritual minded-
ness amongst the people for which we are seeking. It seems as if it -
would be our place to watch all suitable and prudent opportunities to
explain the principles of Friends to individuals and companies, so as
to open the minds of those in the higher ranks, and encourage" them in
their benevolent exertions for the good of mankind. This constant
exposure to fresh company is, thou well knowest, very trying to me,
but I am more and more convinced that there is a great service in it."
" Tenth Month 13th. — We were introduced by our kind friend C.
Hughes to General de Suchteln, the Russian Ambassador, a fine old
man, who received us very kindly, and- told us that he had a great love
for Friends ; he showed us his valuable library, consisting of several
thousand volumes, amongst which are many scarce works, and a
manuscript of the four Gospels written on vellum and more than one
thousand years old. He also showed us some very fine paintings by
the first artists, one in particular, was a most exquisite performance ;
the subject was our Lord conversing with Nicodemus by night, and
the light of the lamp was so exactly imitated that the flame appeared
to be actually quivering. There were also some excellent paintings by
Russian artists.
We went to Count Engestrom's to dinner, and were received by the
Countess with great kindness and affability ; her daughter, who is a
nice young woman, and several ladies were with her ; one of them,
who came from Russia, promised to give us some letters of introduc
tion ; she is a person of large property, and interests herself much on

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 295
the subject of prisons ; "-she speaks highly of the Empress Dowager,
who, she says, is the life and soul of their charitable institutions. The
Count came into the room in a short time, and shook hands with us in
a very friendly manner. A large company was soon assembled, and,
as strangers and foreigners, we were put forward and placed in the
head seats at table. I had some agreeable conversation with the
Russian lady, who has estates in.Holstein, and is a very interesting
clever person ; she is intimately acquainted with the Queen of Den
mark ; she entered with ardour into our school plans, and seems very
desirous of promoting them ; she is to return to Copenhagen in a few
days. Dinner lasted about an hour, after which we all retired to tBke
coffee. I had some very interesting conversation with Count Engestrom,
and also with a nun on the subject of religion. The Count is a pro
testant, but his lady, who is a Pole, is a Roman Catholic. Every thing
went on satisfactorily, and we returned to our inn, not without a hope
that this day's work would tend to open the way for the great cause
we have at heart.
Tenth Month 14th  A pious young man, a Moravian, called upon
us this morning; we had some satisfactory discourse with him, and
were glad to become acquainted with him ; he is very zealous for the
distribution Jof Bibles and religious tracts. Our friend Phillipsen then
came, and we again set out upon a cruise;- we first called on Dr.
Wiegel, the King's physician, to whom Professor Berzelius had given
me a letter ; he received us very kindly, and, after some time spent in
conversation, we were preparing to take leave, when he proposed
meeting us at the hospital. Our next visit was to Count Rosenblad,
the president of the Bible Society, who not only received us with kind
ness, but even with- affection ; he was highly pleased with the letters
of introduction from Lord Teignmouth and Dr. Steinkopff, and we soon
found that he was a pious valuable character, possessing a good deal
of religious tenderness. He had the horses put to his carriage, and
went with us to the hospital, which is a spacious, airy building, very neat
and clean : the poor need no tickets of recommendation, but present
themselves, and are taken in at the discretion of the physician or sur^
geon, as there is room ; there is a Bible in each room, and a Testament
for each bed. We learnt from Dr. W. that this hospital, as well as
other public charities, was in a wretched state, about eight years ago ;
— that they were so badly managed people would not subscribe to
them, but by the care of Phillipsen, and other benevolent characters,
they are now brought into excellent order ; and such is the public con
fidence reposed in Phillipsen, that large sums of money are put into
his hands for these objects. One person who spends only five hundred
banco dollars per annum upon himself and family, or about sixty-two
pounds sterling* gave him, not long ago, one hundred thousand dollars!

296 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
he is much respected by the King, but has uniformly declined to accept
any order of distinction.
Hence Count Rosenblad took us to the printing office; where trie
Bibles are printed ; they keep eight presses at work for the Holy Scrip
tures alone, and two for religious tracts, &c. They have printed fifteen
thousand Bibles this year, and expect, hefore the end of it, to complete
five thousand more, making twenty thousand, and, besides this, they
have, printed fifteen thousand Testaments ; here we met a pious young
man, a merchant, who devotes much of his time to the concerns of the
Bible Society. We then visited a new institution, for the purpose of
public lectures on anatomy, &c, and I was much pleased to see Pro
fessor Berzelius' laboratory, which is large and convenient. We after
wards, went to Danvig, about two miles distant, where there is an
hospital for the insane, and several other establishments, all conducted
upon a very good plan ; a mild treatment is pursued with the lunatics,
who are employed where it is practicable, and they are assembled, for
about an hour every day, for prayer and religious reading. It is re
markable that, during this time, they are quite silent, but, immediately
after it is over, they begin their usual incoherent talking. Near the
place is a new building, not yet fully inhabited. It is for the widows
of citizens, of rather a superior class, and has been erected in conse
quence of a donation of ten thousand rix banco dollars, by a lady; it is
calculated to contain about sixty persons, and the apartments are plain,
neat, and indeed almost elegant. There is certainly much public spirit
in Stockholm.
C. W. Fagerlin, the Moravian, called in the evening.
Tenth Month 15th. — H. T. Phillipsen accompanied us to the house
of correction, on the outskirts of the city ; it is a large mass of build
ings, comprising also a work-house, and an infirmary.. . We were met
by the police master, and by three gentlemen, who, with Phillipsen,
kindly devote a large portion of their time to the management of the,
house ; they are appointed by the King, but without a salary. We first.
visited the women's side, where there were three hundred and twenty
female prisoners, classed in different rooms, and employed in various
works of industry ; they have a certain task to perform for the estab
lishment, and receive the remainder of their earnings for themselves ;
the floors were remarkably neat and clean, and great order seemed to
prevail throughout the whole house. Every room is well provided with
Bibles and Testaments ; no corporal punishment is inflicted, but the
refractory are confined in a solitary cell, which, however, -rarely has to
be resorted to. The police master has the character of conducting
himself as a father in the establishment ; he is vested with full powers to
liberate any whom he may consider as reclaimed, and persons who want
servants, sometimes apply here for them ; he says some are very tender,

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 297
and under deep contrition, and by steady good conduct, give proofs of
a thorough reform. There were about one hundred and twenty male
prisoners, who are also employed, for industry seems the order of the
day; there are the same regulations, with regard to corporal punish
ment, as on the women's side.
Hence we went to another useful establishment, — the house of in
dustry, where any poor persons, on application, may receive wool, cot
ton, or flax to spin, and if they do not possess a wheel, one is lent to them.
They have, at this time, nine hundred wheels out on loan, and have
six hundred more in the house, where poor persons are allowed to come
and work if they choose; they may earn about ninepence per day. The
applications for work are most numerous in winter, because in summer
the poor can often procure employment which pays them better. There
is a shop for the sale of the different articles manufactured here.
We dined with the Russian ambassador, General de Suchteln, where
we met a large and very pleasant party. The only lady present was
the General's daughter. Three o'clock is the usual dinner hour here,
and it is the practice for the company to assemble about half an hour
before. The General is a mild amiable old man ; he keeps an open
table every day -for his friends, and dinner time being fixed, they come
without ceremony just when they like. The Austrian and Danish
ambassadors were there, and a person high in authority in the Swedish
government. We had much interesting conversation, in which there
was an opportunity for some useful explanations respecting our religious
principles, and I got on pretty satisfactorily with my French. After
sitting about an hour and a half* we all rose and went into the next
room to take coffee. In the evening we attended the Bible committee
at Count Rosenblad's-; about twelve were present. The Count placed
us by him, and before he took the chair addressed a few sentences to
the company in a very serious manner ; all were standing ; a person
who appeared to be a Lutheran clergyman then pronounced a short
prayer, after which they sat down. The business appeared to be of an
interesting character, and though we could not understand their lan
guage, it was pleasant to be amongst them. Stephen had something to
say to them in French, which most of them understood, and it appeared
to be well received. Count R. assured us that the funds of the Bible
Society are kept perfectly distinct from those of the Evangelical Tract
Society. Tenth Month 16th. — Most of this day was spent in visiting hospitals,
which appear to be very well conducted. In the evening we called
upon Julie von Bielke, the lady from Russia, and had a very interest
ing visit ; she gave us some letters of introduction for Petersburg.
11th  After breakfast our kind friend Phillipsen was with us again,
and took us to the place where prisoners are confined before trial, and

298 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
also after conviction, before they can be sent to their destination. It
is a great contrast to the house of correction ; the cells, are very gloomy
and dismal, — there is no work and no classification ; but those benevo
lent characters who have done so much for other institutions have com
menced plans of reform here, and truly they are wanted. About one
hundred and sixty prisoners, on an average, pass through this prison in
a year ; the number confined at one time is about thirty or forty. I
was obliged to hasten from this prison to an appointment with Lord
Strangford, who received me with great affability and kindness ; we had
a good deal of conversation on the subjects of -our journey, schools, &c. ;
he said that he had read an excellent article in the Quarterly Review on the
subject of the education of the poor, which he would send to me. He
offered also to send letters or parcels for me to England or Russia, and
again gave us an invitation to dine with him at Belle Vue, which I ac
cepted for second-day next.
We went to dine with Anker, the minister for Norway ; he has open,
pleasing manners, and after dinner Stephen and I had some conversa
tion with him alone on the subject of Friends in Norway, &c. He did
not say much in reference to schools, but being informed of the great
want of Bibles, and the disappointment of the subscribers on receiving
catechisms instead, he at once said that he would write to the bishop
about it by that night's post, and tell him of the remarks which foreign
ers had made. We spent the evening with Christopher Hughes, the
American Secretary of Legation ; by degrees a pretty large company
assembled, amongst whom were the American minister, Russell^ and
his wife, the French Charge d'affaires and his wife, and several young
men who were foreigners. This constant living in company is trying
to my feelings.
Tenth Month 18th. — We held our meeting to-day in private ; I was
low, yet felt my mind calmed and comforted, and towards the close
dear Stephen was engaged for some time in prayer. After dinner I
retired to my chamber, and read the Testament, &c, till tea time;
part of the evening also was spent in retirement, but we had a visit
from C. W.Venus, who was one of the first to undertake the reform
of the House of Correction : he is a nice well-disposed man, and we
were both much pleased with him. I must keep up a correspondence
with the good people here.
19th. — We dined to-day with Lord and Lady Strangford, at Belle
Vue; they received us very kindly, and we were much pleased- with
them both ; the company was select. Lord S. made me tell the whole
history of Lancaster and our school concern, and also of Lanark, and
we had a great deal of satisfactory conversation respecting the disci
pline of our religious society. We spent a very agreeable afternoon ;
he lent me some ' Courier' newspapers, and I was glad to find that on

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 299
the 5th instant, thevGrand Duke Michael of Russia went to see our in
stitution at the Borough* Road, and expressed himself highly gratified.
Enoch went to call upon Phillipsen respecting our arrangements for to
morrow, and he found him in a tender spirit, pondering over some of
the conversations he had had with us ; he begins to see our principles
more clearly, and to feel the truth of them.
20th  The servant whom our friend Hughes has engaged to go
with us to Russia, called ; we read the- terms to him, which he quite
approves. A favourable opportunity presenting, for sending some
books, &c, by Julie von Bielke, to the Queen of Denmark, we selected
a few for her, and accompanied them with a joint letter ; we were glad
of this opening. I wrote a note to- Lord Strangford, and sent him my
' Thoughts,' &c.j and the report of the prison committee.
Tenth Month 21st. — Stephen and I called upon Count Engestrom,
and were cordially received ; we spoke to him about our passports,
which he ordered to bej got ready, talked about the state of the prisons,
&c, and undertook to get an appointment made for us to see the King.
I returned to the inn, and went on with a memorial, on the state af
education, &c, in this country. We dined with Count Rosenblad,
who, with his wife, was very loving and tender, and we had a precious
season of religious retirement.
22nd. — Count Engestrom sent a note to say that the King would
receive us at six -o'clock this evening. We requested to be allowed a
private audience, and the King kindly appointed the interview at his
country house at Rosenthal. At ten o'clock our friend Phillipsen
called to show us the remaining prisons ; one is the largest in Stock
holm, where those who have received their sentence are confined.
Phillipsen is beginning the work of reform here. We afterwards went
to an institution for fhe deaf and dumb, which appears in good order.
I had some conversation with him about sweeping chimneys. He is
much grieved that the children are sometimes taken out of their insti
tutions here for this degrading employment, and says that he would
cheerfully expend' two thousand dollars himself to remedy the evil.
He was delighted when I told him of our machine for the purpose, and
I promised to make him a present of one, which is to be sent as soon
as possible.
About five o'clock we set out for Rosenthal, calling, on our way, to
take leave pf Julie von Bielke, whom we left in tears. On arriving at
the palace, we sent in our cards to Count Engestrom, and after waiting
some time in one of the apartments, we were ushered into another,
where several persons, belonging to the court, were walking about. Our
friend, Count Rosenblad, kindly came and noticed us, also Anker, the
minister for Norway, and some others ; Count Engestrom then came,

300 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
and conducted us into an elegant little private apartment, where he
begged us to sit down, and leaving us for a few minutes, returned with
the King, who was dressed in military uniform, with stars, crosses, &c;
he has a very fine countenance, indicating mind and benevolence, and
kindly took us by the hand; no one but Count Engestrom was present.
Stephen explained to him the motives which had induced us to visit
his kingdom, and we soon entered into free conversation. He seemed
quite one with us on the subject of capital punishment, and said that
he had, himself, abolished the practice of flogging.
After standing about a quarter of an hour or twenty minutes, he in
quired whether we should stay two or three days longer, and finding
that this was the case, said he should like to see us again the day after
to-morrow, when he could spare an hour or more. He took leave of
us, not formally, but with kindness and even affection.. We returned
to our inn under a feeling of reverent thankfulness, that our great Mas
ter thus continued to open the way before us.
Tenth Month 23rd. — Received a very kind note from Lord Strang
ford.* Hard at work on our memorial for the King. After tea a Lu-,
theran priest, with whom we had become acquainted at the Bible
committee, called, and took us to see several pious persons. Though
it was in the line of conversation, there was a full opportunity to con
vey, in a solemn manner, our views on some important subjects'; some
of their objections were also answered, and I believe to their satisfac
tion. We were glad to have had this interview. ,
24th  I went to call on Lord Strangford, with whom I had a very
agreeable visit, — the more I know of him, the more highly I esteem
him ; speaking of the subject of oUr religious society, and how little it
is known, he told me that he was surprised to find the King of Portu
gal so well informed of our principles; he said the King had been
brought up with strong prejudices against sectaries, and was surrounded
by those who cherished this feeling ; he had, however, determined to
read for himself, and had acquired much general information respecting
different sects. He added, that the King knew more of the principles
of Friends than he did himself, and had a respect for them. I was
not before aware that in the treaty which Lord S. made with Portugal,
he. got a clause inserted in favour of toleration. He repeated his kind
offer of forwarding letters and parcels, and said he would write respect-
* In this note Lord S. says — " Lest I should not be so fortunate as to find you at home,
I write these few lines, to express my sincere and earnest thanks for the books which you
were so good as to give me, and which I have read with the deepest interest, and with
feelings of real respect for their virtuous and enlightened author.
I feel the value of your kind expressions towards Lady S. and myself; indeed, I should
be unwilling to think, that our acquaintance with you and your friends was to be merely
temporary."

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 301
ing us to the British Charge d'affaires at Petersburg. He also said he
would take suitable opportunities, in his intercourse with the King of
Sweden, to forward the objects of general philanthropy which we have
in view. I then went to the Russian Ambassador about our passports;
the old man received me very lovingly, and is to write to the governor
of AboTor us. In the evening a note was forwarded to us from Count
Engestrom, appointing to-morrow evening at eight o'clock for our in
terview with the King. Finished the memorial after supper."
This memorial was of a comprehensive character, embracing the sub
ject of the education of the poor, and the best means of improving their
moral and physical state, with suggestions on the subject of prison
discipline.. W. A. remarks in it that —
" The safety, the happiness, and the prosperity of a state, depend
upon the morals and virtue of the people of which it is composed ; and
as, in every country, the far greater number of persons are in the poorer
classes, these seem to claim, in an especial manner, the attention and
care of the middle and upper ranks of society. If the poor are ne
glected and suffered to remain in ignorance, they will most probably
become vicious and depraved, and their number will increase. If
they are not taught to read they will, to a great extent, be deprived of
the consolations of the Holy Scriptures, and remain very much unac
quainted with their duties to God, and to their neighbour — they will
be liable to imbibe hurtful prejudices, and may easily be made the tools
of artful and designing men for the most mischievous purposes."
In reference to Stockholm he says —
" When we arrived at this city, we were rejoiced to find several of
the most respectable citizens engaged in superintending and directing
those numerous institutions for the relief of suffering humanity, which
do so much credit to Stockholm. To one of the most active in these
works of benevolence, Herman Theodore Phillipsen, we are particularly
indebted for his great kindness in conducting us to the schools, hospi
tals, and prisons, where we have seen the most gratifying proofs of
his philanthropic exertions, &c."
After finishing the memorial, W. Allen's mind was under deep feel
ing on the subject of preparing an address to the King, of a more per
sonal character. In speaking of it the next day, he says —
" I felt it a very important business and a religious duty ; I shut
myself up in my own room, and, with solemn feelings, mentally craved
assistance in the performance of it, and my petition was assuredly granted.
When dear Stephen read it he expressed his complete unity with it, —
the oneness of our views throughout this journey has indeed been re
markable. He is going to translate it into French."
The following is a copy of the Address; —

302 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
TO CHARLES JOHN, KING OF SWEDEN AND NORWAY, &c,
" May it please the King,
"Under, we humbly trust, a degree of that gospel love which wishes
the eternal well-being of all, we have felt it our duty to pass through thy
dominions, on our way to other countries, and to salute those every where
who we believe love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity — whatever may
be the form of religion which they may profess ; for we know no distinc
tion of sect or party, believing that the true church is composed of indi
viduals of all sects and denominations, who are faithfully endeavouring
to know and to perform the divine will concerning them ; these, wherever
scattered, are united in one head, even Christ, and, in the fellowship
of his gospel, feel that they all are brethren. -
We are deeply convinced that, in proportion as the benign spirit of
the gospel is submitted to in the hearts of men universally, it will lead
to order, to subordination, and to peace in the earth ; for, proceeding
from the source of infinite love, it produces nothing but good-will to
wards the whole human family, — it teaches charity for those who differ
from us ; and, accordingly, the true church has been under persecution
at times from the earliest ages, but has never persecuted.
We have been particularly gratified in being informed of thy dispo
sition to grant liberty of conscience and indulgenceio religious scruples ;
for as every man must give account of himself unto God, he is bound
to perform worship in the manner which he is convinced, in his own
mind, is most acceptable in the divine sight ; and we take the liberty
to solicit thy kind protection of those who, though they may differ in
sentiment from the religion of the country, yet, by their lives and con
duct, give proof that their only object is to preserve a conscience" void
of offence toward God and toward men. It is by concentrating all the
talent and all the good feeling which exist in the body of the people,
and directing it to one object — the general good, that nations become
strong ; and we are sure, wilh thy enlightened mind, it is not necessary
for us to dwell on the happy effects produced by a free toleration, in
matters of religion, in those countries in which it is enjoyed.
In reflecting upon the cares and difficulties which must necessarily
attend the high station in which it has pleased Divine Providence to
place thee as King of these realms, we have felt our minds engaged,
in affectionate sympathy, earnestly to recommend thee to rely upon that
grace and good spirit which, as it is believed in and followed, will ren
der us always acceptable in the divine sight. This, 0 King, would
assist and support thee more powerfully than any mere human means,
and make thee a happy instrument to forward that great work which the
Almighty has in the earth, and which at the present day is so conspicu
ously going on in different nations in a variety of ways, but tending

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 303
towards the same glorious object — the advancement and exaltation of
the Redeemer's kingdom. Thus would thy throne be established in
righteousness, supported by the hearts and affections of all the wise
and the good. — < For them who honour me, will I honour,' saith the
Lord! That He, who has so signally made the way before thee, may con
duct thee by his providence, bless all thy virtuous exertions for the
good of thy people, and finally receive thee into his everlasting rest, is
the earnest desire of Thy sincere and respectful friends,
Stephen Grellet,
William Allen."
" In the evening we prepared every thing for our appointed visit ; it
was trying to our feelings, but I felt a strong evidence, in my own
mind, that all would be well. On our arrival, we waited a little time
in the ante-chamber of the palace, and were then conducted across a
square, and' through a long suite of apartments, at the end of which
was a large room, magnificently lighted ; here a company was assem
bled, amongst whom were several ladies ; passing through a smaller
suite, we, at length, reached a neat little room, with a long writing
table, which is the King's private cabinet. He soon came in and re
ceived us very kindly, desiring us to take chairs. Count Engestrom
was the only person present, as before, and we entered into free; con
versation. . The King told us a great deal about the state of Norway,
and what he had. done for that country, regretting that there were some
things,. in their old constitution, which were very hurtful; he said the
peasants were not represented in their government, &c. The subject
of the Address, sent to him by the Society of Friends, in London, was
brought forward, but we could not clearly tell whether it had ever
reached him ; we, however, presented him with a copy, and told him
thatwe had, ourselves, prepared an Address, which, if he pleased,
S. G. would read to him; to this he readily assented, and appeared
much gratified and affected by it. He remarked that the warrior who
sought for glory, and those whose objects were to aggrandize themselves
in the world, had their gratification in things external and transitory,
while those who went about doing good, enduring fatigues, and sub
mitting to many privations and difficulties for that purpose, had a much
richer reward in the inward satisfaction of their own minds. We spoke
of the Friends in Norway, and he told us that the affair of marriage had
been before the council, and it was concluded that, provided it was
performed after the manner of Friends, and registered; it should be
lawful, and that he would protect not only the Friends there at present,
but those who might join them in future. He said, ' Your Friends
cannot avenge themselves, — all that their principles permit is, if possi-

304 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
ble, to parry the blows which may be aimed at them, but they cannot,
otherwise, defend themselves ; they, therefore, have a double claim to
protection,' and this, he assured, us, they should have. We felt, so
sweetly the power of divine goodness over us all, that we were quite
at our ease, and way opened to tell the King that one of our Friends,
residing at Christiania, who had accompanied us here, and been very
useful as an interpreter, had a great desire to see him. He ordered
him to be sent for directly, and Enoch Jacobson was, at length, brought
in ; the King received him very graciously, and spoke , kindly and
familiarly to him, CountEngestrom interpreting. We then presented
the King with some books, which he received with marked satisfaction,
and regretted that his son was not present. The conference lasted
above an hour, when we took leave in a manner which I shall never
forget ; while I was holding his hand, in the love which 1 felt for him,,
I expressed my desire that the Lord would bless and preserve' him.
It seemed to go to his heart, and he presented his cheek for me to kiss,
first one, then the-. other; he took the same affectionate leave of dear,
Stephen, and also of Enoch, and commended himself to our prayers.
This was a highly interesting opportunity, and it was, indeed, the crown
to our labours in this place. Here, as, at Rosenthal, we felt the pre
cious influence of that power, which, in every place, had set an open
door before us, and we could only, in deep, humility, say, 'It is the
Lord's doing, and marvellous in our eyes.'
Tenth Month 26th. — Busily employed in preparing for our departure
to-morrow. We paid our last visit to Count Engestrom at the palace;
he gave us a good deal of information upon the state of- the country,
and took leave of us very affectionately. Thenee we~went to Lord
Strangford's, and had an agreeable interview with him. After- making
several other calls, we went, a second time, to dine with the Russian
Ambassador, at his pressing request, and again met a-large company.
We took tea with D. Erskine and his family. Our letters of recom
mendation have procured us all the attention and civility which we
could wish for, and we have been particularly pleased in forming an
acquaintance with some valuable characters. During the three weeks
we have been here, I have had no time for relaxation, not so much as
to take a walk, but all our engagements have had a reference to the
errand upon which we came.
Tenth Month 21th.— Lord and Lady Strangford called to take leave
of us ; we parted, on both sides,- with affectionate feelings ; they are
both very amiable persons. We also received several other visits from
those kind friends, who came to say farewell to us, and Phillipsen and
Erskine accompanied us on board the vessel, which is well fitted up as
a packet, but no bedding was provided, so we borrowed two beds of
our landlady, who was, to receive them again by the return of the vesSel.

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 305
When we had made our arrangements, and all was on board, we
went down to the cabin, and took an affectionate leave of dear Enoch,
who has been a valuable helper to us, and a cheerful companion ; we
consider. him as provided for us by the Great Master, to aid and com
fort us through this part of the work. He then returned in the boat,
which towed us out for several miles, and we proceeded, with a fair
wind, passing a number of little islands consisting of rocks, not ele
vated much above the surface of the water, and covered with pines.
There were about twenty passengers on board, but we have had little
communication with any, except a young officer, and a lady who was
born in England, but has resided some time in Russia ; she is much
esteemed by General Suchteln and his daughter, and they requested
us to take her under our care ; she has two servants, who kindly
assisted us, as the man who was engaged to go with us to Petersburg
turned out to be a Russian deserter, and could not have a passport;
we must, therefore, take one from Abo. They do not furnish provi
sions on board, so we brought our's with us; and the lady, the officer,
and we, dined and took tea together.
28th, — My bed was very comfortable, and I have had a better night
than for a long time pist. I lay awake about an hour, and found, by
the motion, that we were going at a great rate, but I was not in the
least ill, and my mipd was sweetly refreshed and comforted, even when
thinking of what I have left behind. I reviewed the work already
done, and felt what was before us, — peace reigned.
The wind is still fair, and the weather beautiful ; our fellow traveller
made our chocolate for us, and is kindly attentive. I was engaged,
most of the morning, writing, and looking through my telescope. In
the evening our little party amused themselves on deck, admiring the
stars and makingout the constellations. On going down stairs, a most
interesting conversation took place with the young officer, on the sub
ject of war ; our female friend said she could have sat up all night to
listen to it. Stephen almost preached for a considerable time, though
there were a few breaks to answer questions. It was edifying to see
the frankness and openness of the young man's mind ; the whole made
a deep impression, and I think they will long remember it.* It was
near twelve o'clock before we retired to rest, and we arrived at Abo
about four in the morning, after a most extraordinary passage (for the
time of the year) of only forty hours ; I had another good night."
* More than four years afterwards, William Allen received a letter from a correspondent
at Petersburg, in which the writer says, — " You may remember, in your journey with Mr.
Grellet, crossing the gulf of Bothnia with an English lady, Miss Dunn ; I, lately, had the
pleasure of her 'company in going to Elsineur, and she mentioned, with pleasure and grati
tude, the religious instruction she received from you and your companion on that voyage."
Vol. I. 20

306 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.

CHAPTER XI.
1818 — 1819. — Institutions at Abo — Travelling in Finland — Helsingfors — Fredericksham—
Wyborg — Arrival at Petersburg — Various Engagements — Excellent Institutions of the
Empress Mother-1— Meeting at "Daniel Wheeler's — Ceremony of Blessing the Waters of
the Neva — Letter to W. Pepys — Commencement of the Scripture Lessons — First Inter
view with the Emperor. ' c
"Tenth Month 29th, 1818- — The officers came on board'to inspect,
but gave us no trouble ; we came to the ' Society's Inn,' a very large
house, where they only speak their native language, so it was some
time before our breakfast was ready. One of the merchants, to whom
we had a letter of introduction, kindly provided us with a servant,, who
has a good character, and has been fifteen times to Petersburg. In
the afternoon we delivered several of our letters, and have become
acquainted with some highly interesting characters, principally in the
philanthropic line, but we feel it all as a part of the great work. Dr.
Haartman's appearance indicated a fine open-hearted youngman. I found
that, in the year 1815, he had been in London, and visited the Borough
Road, school. He went with us to the Governor General Steinhielt, a
very interesting person, who gave-us much information about /schools
and prisons ; he says, crime increased very much, in consequence of the
war, and the use of ardent spirits. I find he is a mineralogist, and has
a beautiful collection of minerals ; he invited us to see it ; we took tea
with him, and felt quite at home. We were glad to learn that, in some
of the public institutions, the work of reformation is beginning. From
hence we went to visit J. Julian, who has a large, neat apothecary's
shop ; he is a sensible, intelligent man, and has a scientific turn also";
we found him very busy preparing to draw fine platina wire for the
new lamp, without flame, invented by. Davy ; I was quite pleased at
becoming acquainted with him. We laid our plans of operation for
to-morrow, and returned to the inn, where we found our fellow traveller,
M. Dunn, who could not set off for Petersburg until to-morrow; after
supper we had a good deal of interesting conversation on our religious
principles and discipline.
Tenth Month 30th. — We made an early call on the Archbishop, to
whom Count Rosenblad had given us a: letter ; he received us very
kindly, and informed us that the general meeting of their tract society
would be held to-morrow, at which they would be glad to see us ; he
also invited us to dine with him. We then went to Julian's to break
fast, where Dr. Haartman met us, and there was a very pleasant party-
great openness and kindness prevailed. Dr. H. had got up early to
visit his patients, in order to have time to accompany us. We first
called on a clergyman who is secretary to the committee for the poor ;
there are two parishes, one Swedish and one Finnish, and the clergy-

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 307
man of each parish is always a member of the committee. We visited
several schools, the poor-house, and a place where poor women are
supplied with flax for spinning ; this, as far as it goes, is an excellent
establishment. With regard to schools, a more extended system of instruction is ob
viously needed; the education of girls in general is greatly neglected,
and yet the parents areso anxious that their children should learn to read,
that they most frequently contrive to teach them, or have them taught.
In the country the poor seem to be distributed among the farmers, who
are responsible also for their education. The priest makes a periodical
visitation, when he regularly examines all the children, and gives to each
of them a little ticket expressing his opinion of their progress ; these
tickets are afterwards of use to the children when they are old enough
to apply for situations as servants.
The poor-house contains almost wholly those who from age, or in
firmity, from weakness of intellect or insanity, are unable to provide for
themselves ; many parts of it were in a very dirty state.
We now went to the house of correction, containing about ninety
prisoners. In one room were six or seven gipsy women, confined
merely for being what their mode of life makes them, that is, vagrants.
These poor creatures seem to be held in supreme contempt, being in a
- state of total ignorance. In the whole of this prison, the only thing
wanting seems to be a good system of classification, and the attention
of such a committee as E. J. Fry has established at Newgate. The
women were all employed. >
We went to dine at Dr. Haartman's, where we met a large party,
amongst whom were Captain Prytz, our companion on board the vessel,
and the Governor's secretary, who is to conduct us to the prison at the
castle. Dr. H.'s wife appears a very amiable woman. He and Julian
were very earnest to hear from me the history of the School Society,
and I gave him a full account of it ; they are quite disposed to adopt
the system here. After dinner we all rose from the table as usual, but
made a pause standing, before we withdrew. I observed there was
also a pause before dinner, though no one uttered a word. We retired
into the next room to take coffee. I like this practice very much.
Several of the party accompanied us to the castle, where the pri
soners for all the province, containing a population of two hundred
thousand, are confined after sentence, though there were some untried.
The number is about sixty."
The details of this, prison are of an affecting nature : some persons
confined, for murder, under very aggravated circumstances, were loaded
with manacles, chains, collars, &c. ; many of the prisoners were heavily
ironed, and one man had an iron hoop over his head, from which a bell
was suspended. W. A. says —

308 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
" Our minds were deeply affected in going through. theSe scenes of
human depravity and wretchedness ; but, bad as the system is, it is
quite plain that some pains have been taken to ameliorate the condition
of the prisoners. The Governor General, Count Steinhielt, is a humane
and valuable character, and we found others also in authority who
are benevolently disposed. O, how is it to be desired, that a com
mittee could be formed to visit these outcasts, and try to bring them to
a sense of their condition. There were Bibles throughout the prison,
and Testaments iii every room."
In the review of what they had seen, W. A", writes —
" Here, as in other places through which we have passed, there is
the same general complaint of the demoralization of the poor, and the
increase of crime, in consequence of war and the use of strong liquors ;
never was the connection of cause and effect more striking.
Tenth Month 31st. — Some calling visits in the morning. Dr. Haart-
man accompanied us to the Governor General Steinhielt's to dinner,
between one and two ; we met/with a cordial reception, and were
introduced to his wife and family. Dear Stephen, as usual, seized
every opportunity of informing their minds on subjects of thehighest
importance, and I often think that much good is done in this way, as
well as by preaching. I could but remark their great moderation, —
we were not much more than three quarters of- an hour at dinner, when
all rose and went into the next room, where the usual salutations took
place, and coffee was handed. The Governor and I soon withdrew to
his cabinet of minerals, which contains some of the rarest and, most
choice specimens of the country. Several were quite new to me, and
he offered me some of his duplicates ; Cornish specimens are rarities
here, and I am to send him some, together with strontian, both carbo
nate and sulphate, &c, &c. Dear Stephen Came to us, and, before we
parted, we had some serious conversation ^to mutual satisfaction ; the
Governor is a very sensible clever man. We left him in a loving dis
position, and proceeded with Dr. Haartman to attend the meeting of the
Religious Tract Society. The Archbishop received us in a friendly
manner, and seemed pleased that we had accepted his invitation ; he
repeated his wish that we should dine with him, in such a way that we
thought it best to yield, and agreed, to be with him about one o'clock
to-morrow. Some of the priests kindly noticed us, and one of them,
who lives near the place which we must stop at after Our first , day's
journey from Abo, was very earnest that we should take up our quarters
at his house, saying that his wife would be very glad to see us. We
accepted his love, but excused ourselves from acceding to his kind pro
posal. The tract meeting consisted of about thirty persons, and was
opened by their singing a psalm, standing. The business was then

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 309
proceeded with, and a motion was agreed to, that females might be
come members of the society.
Eleventh Month ls£\— First-day. We had several visitors to break
fast, among whom was Captain Prytz ; he staid after the rest had left
us, and we had a very satisfactory religious opportunity with him ; his
mind is tenderly impressed, and I firmly believe he is under a precious
visitation. Soon afterwards, we sat down to worship by ourselves, and
had a sweet refreshing time together. I had a renewed evidence of
being in my right place, and felt peace.
Our friend Dr. Haartman went with us to dine at the Archbishop's ;
the old man received us very cordially, and introduced us to his wife
and family, and to some of his clergy, &c. The name of the one who
read the report yesterday, and who was amongst the company, is
Ignatius. The professor of oriental languages, and several schoolmen,
&c, were also present, and wore their crosses of different orders.
Almost all well-educated persons here speak French. Our minds were
so favoured with a sustaining evidence of the Lord's power and good
ness, that we felt quite at our ease. The company were all kind and
respectful, and I believe, notwithstanding' we differ so widely on many
points, that they were glad to see persons coming on such an errand.
At dinner the Archbishop placed Stephen on one side of himself, and
me on the Other, and we had much serious conversation. Before we
sat down," they all made a solemn pause, standing, no one uttering a
wOrd. On rising after dinner, there was another pause, when Stephen
advanced a step or two, and in a very delicate and suitable manner,
sweetly addressed them in a few words, which seemed to be well ac
cepted ; a good feeling prevailed throughout, and after retiring to the
next room to take coffee, the Archbishop seemed to be more and more
interested in the conversation. He fully assented to the great truth that
the ceremonies in religion, and even what they call the ordinances, are
nothing compared with the living substance. His wife also was very
kind and respectful, and we parted under a mutual feeling of regard
and esteem. Our minds were bowed in thankfulness for the support
we had felt. We went thence to Dr. Haartman's, where we had a time
of religious worship with him and his precious wife, who shed tears on
taking leave of us. Dr. H. said it was indeed hard, after having met
with such friends, to part with them so soon, but we reminded him
that however far Separated in body, we might meet in spirit, and rejoice
in one another's welfare. We took leave under a sweet feeling that
divine goodness is near them. In the evening Professor Hailstrom
called, and presented me with his publications. We had several other
visitors, and Dr. Haartman again called, and took an affectionate leave.
He brought us several letters of recommendation.
The houses at Abo are low, they are built of wood, and are generally

310 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
painted red. A river runs through it, which is only navigable about a
mile .farther, on account of a fall. The streets are rather narrow, and
paved in the same way as at Stockholm, which makes it very uncom
fortable in walking. After passing the bridge, some of the houses are
plaistered. The poor live on peas, potatoes, bread, and fish. There
was a great dance at our inn this evening, though it was first-day. We
have been much pained at several things in this house.
Eleventh Month 2nd. — After some delay about the horses, we set off
between eight and nine, with our man Peter, who is coachman. We
passed several poor hamlets, and have seen some wooden crosses,
which we learn are to mark the distances. They now measure by
Russian versts, and a verst is just about three-fourths of an English
mile. The travelling in this country is, beyond all comparison, better
than in Norway, and cheaper than in any part of the world we have yet
visited. We are not obliged to send on a fore boot, the horses being
always ready."
. The accommodation at some of the stations was miserably poor, and
though, in many parts, the roads were excellent, yet, in some places,
they were sandy and heavy. The travellers again came amongst pine-
covered rocks, and forests of pine, with large blocks of; red granite by
the road side. They reached Helsingfors, a town containing about five
thousand inhabitants, on the 4th. W. A. says —
" In coming through the country we have observed that the peasants
are generally well clothed, though rather dirty in their persons, and
their houses are miserably poor.
We went out to deliver a letter given us by our kind friend Gover
nor Steinhielt to the Counsellor of State d'Ehrenstrom. He received
us civilly, and seems to have a clear head and a right conception of
things. He thinks the most effectual way of doing good is to interest
the benevolent persons in a place, and form a committee for the care
of the poor. This has been done here, and much has already been
effected. We had a good deal of conversation with, him, and were
quite pleased in becoming acquainted with him. He says great im
provements are going forward here, and the Emperor intends it for the
seat of government in Finland. He is quite alive to the advantages of
our system of education for the poor, and engages that a school-room
shall be built ; I left a manual with him. In the afternoon G. W.
Sundman called upon us — he is an agreeable man, and one of the com
mittee for the care of the poor.
Eleventh Month 5th. — We waited by appointment on the State
Counsellor d'Ehrenstrom ; he showed us the. plans of improvement for
the new buildings, &c, which, when finished, will make this, a beau
tiful place. We find that if was burnt down when the Russians took
possession of it, but the Emperor Alexander having ascertained the

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 311
amount of the losses of each individual, indemnified them all, upon
condition that the houses should be re-built of stone or brick, and upon
a certain plan ; he has already caused to he paid one million, six hun
dred thousand roubles, independently of what has been expended for
public buildings. This is a very interesting place, and we seem to
have arrived just in the right time. D'Ehrenstrom says, things are in
their infancy, and they shall be glad of any help or information we can
give them. He accompanied us to their poor-house and schools, and
we then crossed over to the fortress of Sweaborg, where there is a large
prison. The fortress is situated upon several islands formed by rocks
in the sea, and these are connected with each other by long bridges
supported by boats. We met with a hearty reception from the Gover
nor, Count Heydon, to whom the Governor General of Finland had
given us a letter of introduction. We soon entered into agreeable
conversation, and found him an excellent warm-hearted man of very
liberal sentiments. He quickly gave us to understand we might see
all we wished, upon the condition of our dining with him, and we
accordingly accepted his invitation. His sentiments on capital pun
ishment and prison discipline are in perfect unison with our own, and
he much regretted the present system. He sent his aid-de-camp,
a very fine young man, to show us the prison, hospitals, &c. There
is no sort of classification in the prison ; in one room containing forty
prisoners, there were nine boys committed for not having passports.
We heard of the case of one man who was imprisoned on suspicion of
murder, but5 there not being sufficient proof to convict him, he remained
in confinement for twelve years, when his innocence was proved, and
he was discharged. Some of the men were heavily ironed. There are
no women confined in the fortress. The hospital for the prisoners is
in good order, and we were, much pleased with the neatness which
prevailed in the marine hospital, where there are two hundred and
twenty-one patients; the linen is changed twice a week.
Our kind conductor, Dessen, took us to see the school, where ninety
poor boys, taken from the whole province, are boarded, clothed, and
educated.- It was now two o'clock, and we returned to Count Hey-
don's to dinner. He introduced us to his wife and family of fine
children ; their eldest daughter, Mary,- reminded me of my own dear
child ; we had much conversation at dinner, and after retiring to take
coffee,. spent about an hour very agreeably and profitably, with these
excellent persons; they are, both, earnest to see our school plans
adopted, and the Count, who is a benevolent man, desired me to tell
d'Ehrenstrom that, if a society were formed to promote this measure,
and other objects connected with the welfare of the poor, he would be
come the first member of the committee. The Countess is anxious to
have a school for girls ; when we were coming away the Count accom-

312 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818-
panied us to the water side, where we found his own barge manned,
with three pairs of oars, ready to take us back to Helsingfors. We
parted , under mutual feelings of affectionate regard, and afterwards
went, by appointment, to spend some time with d'Ehrenstrom. I gave
him a manual and the last school report : our visit to this place is very
important in all its bearings.
Eleventh Month 6th.— G. W. Sundman paid us an early visit, and,
after breakfast, took us to see his brother-in-law, a Lutheran priest, who
appears to be a pious, valuable, man. Stephen had a good deal of
conversation with him, and I could but admire how much information,
relative to our religious principles and discipline, he was favoured to
convey in this short conference. I was rather diverted by our friend
Sundman's announcing us to his brother-in-law as two priests. I soon,
however, undeceived him, and Stephen explained to them that I was
an elder ; thence taking occasion to describe what we consider the
qualifications of Minister and Elder among us, which gave him a pretty
good scope, and he managed it extremely well.
We afterwards visited the schools and prison. In general, the edu
cation of the girls is much neglected. The prison was a trying and
heart-sickening scene ; most of the men were ironed ; and one man had
a great weight of iron upon his legs, an iron belt rourid his middle, and
an iron collar round his neck, with a projecting piece eight or nine
inches long, with chains beside. We could not help expressing to the
gentlemen who accompanied us, our strong disapprobation of this bar
barous mode of securing prisoners. The delay of justice js so great
that, by Sundman's account, a prisoner sometimes is in prison two
years, and often in irons, before his case is decided.
A little before one o'clock we started from Helsingfors with five
horses ; when we were clear of houses the country, seemed almost all
rock." The journey to Fredericksham presented but little variation, but that
of blocks of red granite and forests of pine, with, occasionally, a little
cultivation, and some very poor hamlets. The stations were often very
poor, and the travellers dined in the carriage. On reaching Frederick-
sham, a strongly fortified town, they found tolerable quarters at the inn,
and the next morning W, A. writes- —
" Eleventh Month 8th  Rested well, and my mind was peaceful on
waking. We delivered our letters of introduction from the Governor
General, and, as usual, met with much kind attention."
They visited the prison, military school, and hospital, but W. A.
says —
" None of the persons here seem to have the least idea of a rational
and christian system of prison discipline, and look upon the reformation
of culprits as a thing next to impossible. The school is a large estab-

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 313
lishment where the. sons of soldiers are boarded, clothed, and educated
at the expense of the crown.
-The military hospital is a large wooden building, and, like the rest
of the houses, is roofed with wood. Every thing was in very clean
nice order. The peasants, when ill, are admitted here as well as the
soldiers. We could not avoid dining with the Commandant, where we met
a large company, many of whom were young officers. On Stephen
remarking pleasantly to Colonel Taraschoff that we were men of peace,
he, smiling, took off his sword, and put it in the corner of the room,
and his example was followed by the officers round him. The freedom,
openness, and hospitality we experienced, were very remarkable. In
the evening we were visited at our inn by the Colonel, and several
others-who came to take leave. We have met with nothing but the
greatest kindness and respect.
9th. — We started at six o'clock, five horses as usual. The country
about Fredericksham is open, and there is much water communication
with the Gulf of Finland, About nine we arrived at the station Pytterlax,
a filthy, dirty house, but here we must breakfast. There was a cock
crowing upon the table in the midst of the dirt ; we, however, found
another part of the premises rather more decent, and took our breakfast
there standing ; we had brought our bread and tea with us.
In passing through the forest we observed birch trees mixed with the
pine ; some of the large blocks of granite, which have been fractured,
show platesjaf mica three-fourths of an inch broad, and the feldspar is
in large pieces. Some peasants are generally in attendance at the
stations ; they wear dirty sheepskin jackets, the leather outside, and
wool within, their hair is very long, they have no covering on their
heads, and many of them wear their beards; they have a dismal grim
appearance. A little before five we arrived at the gates of Wyborg, a
strongly fortified town, where we were stopped for our passports ; they
were puzzled to read them, and kept us some time. We found pretty
good accommodation at the inn, which is. kept by an Italian, who
speaks French well.
Eleventh Month 10th  The morning is very fine, but cold, the
thermometer is equal to 14° of Fahrenheit. My mind is peaceful and
calm ; we went out to deliver our letters of introduction, and met with
much civility ; visited the prison, which is filthy in the extreme, and
the whole place is totally unfit for human beings. One young woman,
who was confined for not having a passport, shed tears on seeing us."
It appears from the details respecting the prisons in Norway, Sweden,
and Finland, that many young women were convicted of the dreadful
crime of child-murder.

314 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
" We next went to the military school, under the care of Major
Gervas. The benefit of these schools is incalculable ; they must cost
the Russian government immense sums of money. Our method might
be applied here with great effect. We went to our inn to dinner, and
then called upon the principal director of the Gymnasium ; the poor as
well as the rich are received into this establishment ; parents who are
able to contribute, pay ten roubles a year, or about ten pounds ten
shillings ; and the children of those who cannot pay, are admitted
gratuitously. There is a school for girls, which is held, in a separate
building, and is under the care of an excellent and well qualified lady,
who has the best interests of the children greatly at heart. Their counte
nances and behaviour bear ample testimony to the value of her instruc
tions ; all were very neat in their clothing and persons, and M. Lehman,
(which is the name of the directress) remarked to us that some of the
poor girls maintained their parents by their needle ; she seemed much
pleased and gratified with our visit, and the sight was to us unspeak
ably interesting. Beside the Gymnasium there is a large building, over-
the doorway of which are the imperial arms, with the words inscribed,
'Kreis Schule,' or Circle School, and we understand that they are
established in all the great towns of Russia; they are elementary
schools, to which all persons, without distinction, may send their
children ; those who can afford it, pay three roubles per annum —
others are received gratuitously. Those children who appear to have
abilities, are sent afterwards to the Gymnasium, and from thence, if
they have promising talents, to the University at Abo. We had several
visitors in the evening.
Eleventh Month 11^.— Some of those persons whom we had seen
yesterday, came this morning to take leave of us. M. Lehman brought
us a present of a nice piece of needlework, framed and glazed, which
was done by a girl with one arm; we parted from this valuable woman
with mutual sentiments of regard and esteem. We have found many
tender characters whose minds were quite open to receive what we
had to communicate ; some seemed affectionately attached to us, and
one gentleman expressed a wish that there were a hundred of our society
in this place. We left several books and tracts, but regretted that our
stock was nearly exhausted. I believe this visit will long be remem
bered by many here.
A little before six we arrived at Lindula, a very poor house—no
beds ; we found our way, however, into a tolerably decent room, where
we must lie in our clothes. The people of the house went to bed be
tween seven and eight, without appearing to take the least thought
about us. We had brought some meat with us, and I. cut it into
steaks and cooked it in the travellers' kitchen ; though the meat was

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 315
very poor, yet I must say it was done justice to in the cooking. Be
tween eleven and twelve I laid down in my clothes, soon weht to sleep,
and had quite a good night.
12*A.— Rose refreshed with my night's rest. The snow is every
where on the ground, and the roads are very rough. About two o'clock
we -arrived at the outposts of Petersburg, and after crossing a bridge
supported by boats, congratulated ourselves on having, as we thought,
crossed the Neva, for we were told that when the ice comes down
from Lake Ladoga, it usually carries away the bridges, and the passage
over to the city is cut off for days together. After proceeding, how
ever, a good deal further, we found that we had the main bridge still
to pass, and that it had been carried away by the ice, only two or
three hours before. What to do we did not know, but after we had
inquired till near dusk, we returned some distance to, a ferry ; there
was no hope of getting the carriage over to-night, so we took our bags,
&c, and got into the small boat, leaving Peter to take charge of the
carriage, &c. The ice had accumulated so much that I was almost
afraid at one time thatwe could not wedge our way through ; however,
we landed safely at last, and hired two droskies from a stand near, de
siring the drivers to take us to the Hotel d'Europe, which is in a large
open space just opposite the magnificent palace of the Emperor. The
grandeur of the public buildings, and even the private houses, exceeds
any thing which I have yet seen. I was very low on approaching this
great city, but afterwards was favoured to feel a sweet and precious
degree of peace.
Eleventh Month i3th. — Rose between seven and eight; my mind is
peaceful, and in some degree sweetly supported. I received letters
from home, which contained accounts up tothe 2nd of Tenth Month, —
this was truly cordial and reviving. We did not go out till twelve
o'clock, as we do not know where to find any body ; but J. D. Lewes,
a merchant, who speaks English, brought his droskie and introduced
us to several merchants; he showed us much kindness, and just as we
had dined, Walter Venning found us out, and truly glad we were
to meet each other. He has been labouring hard to ameliorate the con
dition of the prisoners, and" so far with signal success, though much
remains to be done. In the evening Dr. Paterson called, and we were
very glad to see him also. He gave us delightful information of the
progress of the Bible cause, and of the excellent disposition of the
Emperor, &c. We had a most interesting conversation with him, and
are more and more confirmed by all we hear, that we are in the line of
our duty. The Emperor is in the country, but is expected to return
next month ; he is most generally apd deservedly beloved here. We
hear excellent aceounts of the progress of Daniel Wheeler, but, as he
lives some miles on the other side of the Neva, we have not yet seen

316 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
him. I was glad-this morning to see Peter-drive into the yard with the
carriage. Eleventh Month 14th. — We breakfasted with Walter Venning, who
resides at his brother John Venning's. They are exceedingly kind
and open-hearted, and after going out to engage private lodgings, in
which Walter obligingly assisted us, we spent the remainder of the day
with them. We had a good deal of conversation about prisons, &c.
A wide field for usefulness opens in the school concern. We had the
company of Dr. Paterson at dinner, and in the evening General Fan-
shaw came in ; he gave us some information relative to travelling in the
South of Russia. We went to our lodgings in the evening : they con
sist of three rooms on the ground floor, opening one into the other. Our
landlady is an English woman, who married a Russian, and is now a
widow. She seems a respectable clever woman, and, as private, lodg
ings are scarce at Petersburg, we regard it as a providential opening to
meet with such a comfortable retreat.
15th. — Dear Stephen and I held our meeting together to comfort,
though we^were very low under the feeling that there is much before
us in this great city. Some of the principal merchants,1 to whom we
had delivered letters of introduction, called upon us to-day.
16th. — • Walter and John Venning called, also a friend of their's, who
is a converted Jew. Whilst they were with us, a young man to whom
we had no introduction, but who found us out, came in ; he seems full
of zeal and vivacity, has studied our school system at Paris, formed- a
society here, and is translating lessons, &c; but I feel that I must use
much caution, and lay hands suddenly on no man ; I shall, therefore,
not go to see his preparations until I have been with the government
and know what they think of him. Several other persons called, among
the rest, dear Daniel Wheeler and his son William, whom we were
very much pleased to see ; and Count Lieven, the brother of the
Ambassador in London. He has just lost a most amiable wife, but he
is admirably supported by the consolations of religion. We were pleased
and comforted in becoming acquainted with him ; he engaged us to
dine with him to-day, and about two o'clock the Vennings accompanied
us to his house. His present situation reminded me so strongly of my
own loss, that I could hardly rise above the feeling. After' retiring
from the dining room to take coffee, we had much free conversation on
serious subjects, in which the Count's daughter, and two of her young
friends who came from Neufchatel, seemed much interested.
Eleventh Month 11th. — A beautiful morning, — it freezes pretty hard.
Our friends the Vennings called, and conducted us to the Bible Society
house, where we met our dear friend Dr. Paterson, who resides here.
We went over the whole establishment; and were delighted with the
arrangements which Dr. P., under the patronage and support of the

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 317
Emperor and his enlightened ministers, has been enabled to make. In
one room they have ten presses constantly at work on the Holy Scrip
tures, besides two other presses in another room. They are beginning to
print an edition of the Testament in common Russ, which has never been
done before, though there are thirty millions of people who understand
no other language. This was an idea of the Emperor's, and as such
immediately complied with by the heads of the clergy. As more than
twenty millions cannot read, the necessity of adopting a plan for schools
is apparent, and Dr. Paterson is confident that it is the Emperor's wish.
He says I am come jus,t at the right time, and that it seems providential,
— indeed I have a uniform and increasing evidence that this is a period
in my life in which I am called upon to labour, and in a manner a little
out of the common beaten track.
18th. — There is a great deal of ice floating down the Neva from Lake
Ladoga ; the bridge is removed, so that there seems no probability of
our being able to go to meeting to-morrow at Daniel Wheeler's ; this
is a disappointment, as it is a longtime since we sat down in a religious
meeting with our Friends.'
About half-past nine we waited, by appointment, upon Prince Alex
ander Galitzin, our friend Walter Venning accompanied us. We were
conducted through several apartments to a large elegant room, where
we were very kindly received by the Prince and his confidential friend
and secretary, Basil. Papof. There is a good deal of vivacity in the
Prince's countenance, but it is tempered with sedateness and religious
feeling. We were soon sensible of that which words cannot convey,
but the language is the same every where; he merely took the letter
of introduction from Lord Teignmouth, and, without reading it, gave
it to his friend Papof, saying that he felt, pointing to his breast, that
which was a sufficient introduction. We explained to him, with the
greatest openness, our motives for visiting this and other countries,
which were no other than a sense of religious duty, laid upon us by the
Great Parent of the -human family, and a. strong desire to promote the
general welfare of mankind ; and we solicited permission to see their
public institutions, as prisons, schools, &c. He readily agreed to give
us every facility, and dear Stephen then explained to them the prison
discipline of America, with which they were much interested ; the con
ference lasted more than an hour, and was highly satisfactory — indeed
it was a delightful interview. Both the Prince and his friend seemed
to be men of deep piety, and to be not only intent upon doing good to
their own country, but to the world. We left them our certificates to
read, with which they seemed pleased.* We then went to the Minister
* It is the practice of the Religious Society of Friends to furnish such of their members
as travel in the service, of the Gospel, with one or more written documents, certifying that
their proceedings are approved, and united with, by the meetings to which they belong. —
Eds.

318 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
of the Interior, where we also met with a cordial reception. He intro
duced us to his wife and family, with whom we had some interesting
conversation on religious subjects ; his niece, the Princess Sherbetoff",
was with them. We next called on Lord Cathcart, the British Ambas
sador, who received us with respect and. attention, and we afterwards
went to visit the Princess Sophia Mestchersky, whom we found a very
superior person^ she possesses excellent abilities} and much religious
sensibility, and is quite alive to benevolent exertions for the good of
mankind. I spoke tp her on the subject of the education of the poor,,
and she is willing to take the lead in the female department ; she says
we must dine with her^ and discuss the whole subject, so that we are
continually reminded of the text, ' I have set before thee an open door.'
The Emperor esteems her highly, and in her conversation wilh him, she
speaks the truth faithfully. We now returned to dinner, with hearts
full of gratitude to that great and good Hand which has led us thus far.-
Eleventh Month 19th. — W. Venning called, and we had. some seri
ous conversation with him, he is in a very tender frame of mind, and
the more I see of him the more I love him. We dined together be
tween five and six at Sebastian Cramer's. The style of his house is
that of a nobleman. The merchants here live like princes. Nothing
could exceed their kindness and attention to us ; this hospitality is so
general, and we are now so much known, that we have numerous in
vitations out to dinner, but we are so anxious to get through the task
assigned us by our great Master, that we constantly refuse, where duty
does not lead us ; and our aim uniformly is to go steadily forward with
our work. In the variety of interesting conversation which took place
during this visit, great and essential truths were introduced, and I felt
renewedly convinced that, though we have to come forward on these
occasions in a way trying to our feelings, yet there is a service in it
which tends to good. Stephen and I, as being foreigners, were, as
usual, placed in the head seats, on each side of the lady of the house ;
several fine children dined at another table, and were waited upon by
their nurse.
20th. — We took the carriage this morning and went to call upOn
Galakoff, the secretary of the Philanthropic Institution, and D'Junkovsky,
who is at the head of the department for all public buildings, and has
the superintendence of Daniel Wheeler; I find also that he is a corre
spondent of Dr. Hamel's. We drove a considerable distance through
Petersburg,, which certainly is a remarkably fine city'. The houses are
brick, plaistered, and look like stone, the streets are very wide, straight,
and of great length, and the footways broad with flat stones ; it is con
sidered so important to maintain the uniformity and beauty of this city,
that no house can be built before the plan is submitted to the govern
ment and approved.

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 319
- 21st. — Walter Venning came in, and we agree to commence our
operations of visiting institutions on second-day; he went to make
arrangements accordingly. Galakoff called with S. Lanskoi, a member
of the Committee of Bienfaisance ; he says they have elected me a foreign
member. B. Papof came in, and we had some delightful conversation,
his religious sentiments upon fundamental points appear to be exactly
the same as our own.
Eleventh Month 22nd. — First-day; J. D. Lewes kindly sent his
carriage to take us to the Ferry at the Neva ; it is now pretty free from
ice. Samuel Stansfield, a member of our society from Sheffield, who
is settled here as a merchant, accompanied us. The immense stacks
of hay which are floated down the Neva, on a sort of barge, have a
curious appearance, and look very much like houses or large barns.
When we reached the opposite side, we had to walk about a mile and
a half to Daniel Wheeler's. We were gladly received by our dear
Friends, and attended their meeting in a room fitted up in his house
for the purpose. I was glad once more to sit down with Friends, and
though low,, I felt a little comfort and strength. The meetings are
held on the morning and afternoon of first-day and on fifth-days. We
dined with Daniel Wheeler, in company with a person named Finlayson,
who, though not a member of our society, attends our meetings ; also,
an agreeable young man, a German. In a religious opportunity after
wards, both Stephen and I had something to communicate. We
regretted. that we could not stay to attend their afternoon meeting, but
it would have been quite imprudent to attempt recrossing the Neva in
the dark at this season of the year; here, even now, it is quite dusk at
three o'clock, and I suppose we shall soon have only six hours day
light. On landing from the ferry, we pass the most elegant line of iron
railing, between a long range of granite pillars, that I have ever seen ;
it far exceeds the Tuilleries at Paris ; within is a public garden, which
in the summer is a promenade. I retired to my room, read in the
Bible, &c, and went to bed early.
23rd. — Had a good night, and on awaking was unexpectedly
refreshed and sweetly comforted with the feeling of divine good, which
was an excellent cordial, and quite set me up." '
The work of visiting prisons was commenced as proposed on this
day, but as the observations respecting them refer to so distant a period,
and were presented to the proper authorities, it seems unnecessary here
to enter into detail. In speaking of the result of Walter Venning's
labours in the cause of prison discipline, William Allen says, "the
effects are incalculable." He afterwards writes —
"Just as I had finished my nqtes, Walter came in with Dr. Pater-

320 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
son, and an excellent young man of the name of Swan, who is going
out as a missionary to Siberia, and, if his life be spared, he seems likely
to be an instrument of great usefulness ; dear Stephen had some deeply
interesting, conversation with him. Dr. Paterson is very warm in
favour of the school plan, and anxious to see it established here as a
powerful auxiliary to the Bible cause. We had a very interesting
evening, talking over the prospects which are now opening so widely
for the spread of divine truth in. the earth.
Though the memorial to the King of Sweden expressed our opinions
on three great points — prisons, education, and the ^poor, yet we have
thought it right to prepare some distinct, plans upon which the objects
in view might be carried into effect, and we have, accordingly, com
menced a sketch, upon which we work very hard at intervals.
, Eleventh Month 24th. — There has been a great fall of snow in the
night. We had to present ourselvesrto the minister of police this
morning, to get our billets of residence.
25th. — My mind calm, though I am still without letters from home;
and it is now nearly two months since the last date. I am obliged to
strive to bear up against those tender feelings which crowd upon me
when I consider what I have left behind ; but all is in the hand of the
dear Master, and I truSt that he will not suffer more to be laid upon me
than he will give me strength to bear.
26th. — Went to Paris, Warre, Harvey and Co.'s, where I received a
great shock in hearing of the affecting death of Sir Samuel Romilly.
What is man, though endowed with the greatest abilities, without the
consolations of religion ! v
We went with the Vennings to dine with the Minister of 'the Interior,
Karadavcloff, and were kindly received by himself and his wife. There
was a large party, amongst whom we were, glad to find our friend Papof.
The wife of the Minister and the Princess Mestchersky were sitting
together and very cordially welcomed us ; by degrees we were intro
duced to Prince Peter Mestchersky, brother-in-law to the Princess, a
pious good man,, Prince and Prineess Sherbatoff, Prince and Princess
Trabetskoy, of Moscow, &c. Dr. Paterson was likewise present, with
many others whose names I did not learn. Papof was kind enough to
place me by himself, and Prince Peter Mestchersky, who was at my
other side, spoke very kindly, and seemed quite disposed to be
acquainted. We had much interesting conversation during dinner,"
which was elegantly served up, and after sitting about an hour and a
half, the company rose and went into the large drawing room,, where
they divided into little parties or groups. The Princess Mestchersky
made me sit by her and entered a good deal into many points of religious
doctrine, and I could perceive she had an enlightened mind on these

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 321
subjects; on presenting her with the ' Thoughts,' and < Brief Remarks,'
I found that she was already in possession of them, and was translating
them into common Russ.
Eleventh Month 21th  The weather is very cold, and the ther
mometer is now down to 10° of Fahrenheit, but Reaumer's is universally
employed here. Stephen and I took a little walk by the side of the
Neva. Large sheets of ice are floating down, and the water quite
smokes with the instant condensation of the vapour arising from it.
Sledges are running about every where instead of the droskies, which
are low four-wheeled carriages, the common ones drawn by one horse,
and those of a higher grade by two.
28th. — We had several interesting visitors during the day. D'Jun-
kovsky, a principal officer of the Minister of the Interior, gave us a
good deal of information respecting the Duhobortsi, whom he had the
charge of sending to the Crimea ; he says the Emperor of Russia not
only protected them, but has been like a father towards them. He gave
us good reason for supposing that they originally came from the follow
ers of John Huss, and said that though they had been cruelly persecuted
in former reigns, yet, perhaps, they had not been sufficiently guarded
against expressing themselves strongly and publicly on the subject of
pictures, and calling them idols ; this of itself was enough to enrage
the common people against them, even if the government had protected
them ; but according to the laws of Russia, every one speaking against
their religion is to be punished as a blasphemer. They are now happily
under the government of a pious and. enlightened Emperor, who is
surrounded by persons of very superior piety, as Prince Galitzin, Basil
Papof, &c. In a note from Papof to our friend W. Venning, which
Walter gave me leave to copy, he requests we may be informed
that he has been prevented, by accumulation of business, from coming
to us to-day, and after communicating an invitation from the worthy
Prince Galitzin, that we should pass two hours with him on second day,
he adds, « The Prince will not fail to appoint also a day for the dinner
proposed by your brother, when we can again mutually point out
our feelings, and communicate our ideas about subjects of Christian
charity and love."
May our Saviour bless all who seek his glory, and consider it their
utmost felicity to be sheep of his flock, who, with the true simplicity
of children, let themselves be conducted by his Holy Spirit, and em
ployed as public instruments for the enlargement and coming of his
kingdom. To Him be glory, and power, and honour, with his Eternal
Father, and life-giving Spirit, one God for ever and ever.'
Eleventh Month 29th. — It seems quite out of the question, from the
state of the river, to think of going over to Daniel Wheeler's. James
Finlayson and Samuel Stansfield came and sat with us in our little
Vol. I. 21

322 ' LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
meeting; I went into my own room afterwards, and felt refreshed and
comforted. In the afternoon Stephen came to announce that letters
were arrived, and I was soon gratified with seeing once more the hand
writing of my beloved child. The packet also contained a letter from
my dear aged mother, full of religious consolation, and a most accept
able one from my dear brother Joseph, together with some other letters.
The latest date is 29th of Tenth Month.
30th. — We paid another visit by appointment to Prince A. Galitzin
and B. Papof, which was highly satisfactory. These excellent men
have right ideas, and seem quite disposed to countenance and support
every practicable measure for the public good. They told us how much
the Emperor had done for the Universities in his dominions, and the
difficulty they had in counteracting the infidel principles of the pro
fessors, especially some who had come from Germany. We had much
important conversation, and quite a free opportunity. Here is another
open door — we must humbly go in at it, but what it will lead to, must
be left.
Twelfth Month 2nd  We were to have spent this afternoon with
the Princess Mestchersky, but in consequence of the death of Count
Lieven's father-in-law, which took place this morning, she is going to
be with the Count.
3rd. — Visited the great prison and court-house to-day. A great
deal has been recently done to improve the prison, and we must
acknowledge that it afforded us no small degree of satisfaction. It is
a consoling reflection that the government here is quite disposed to
apply remedies for what is amiss, whenever practicable means can be
pointed out. — We dined at John Venning's about five o'clock.
4th. — While we were reading our chapter after breakfast, a note
arrived from the Princess Sophia Mestchersky, requesting us to call
upon her between four and five o'clock this evening, in order to have
some religious conversation ; we accordingly went at the time proposed.
My feelings on the way there were very different from what I often
experience in going to other places ; it was like paying a visit to a
sister and dear Christian friend. There was no company, only her
husband and sister, and her family, which consists of two sons and
three daughters. The large room in which they live, has a very lofty
ceiling, and is just like a shrubbery. There are some fine tall trees in
boxes, and very pietty trellis work, covered with a beautiful creeper
from New Holland ; the plants are all evergreens, and in a healthy,
flourishing state ; among them are cages of singing birds, some of which
are of magnificent plumage, and there was one elegant pair of Indian
sparrows. Their stoves, and their universal system of double windows,
keep up a uniform and very agreeable temperature throughout all the
apartments, and even passages, of a Russian house. I wish my dear

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 323
mother's house could be warmed in this way,— it would suit her
exactly. The Princess's apartment is so large and so much divided by shrubs
and trellis work, that two or three parties might converse at the same
time without interrupting each other. The Princess's sister is a very
pious woman ; she only speaks French ; the Princess, therefore, settled
her with Stephen in one of the little arbours, to have their conversation,
whilst we were in another. There was such a precious feeling of
liberty in the truth, that I could converse with her on religious subjects,
without the least restraint, for her mind was prepared to receive what
was said. We discussed many important points, and I found her a
woman of deep understanding. Our conversation lasted more than two
hours, and was highly satisfactory. Dear Stephen was, also, much
comforted with the conference he had with her sister, who, he says, is
a lady of deep piety and large experience. It was past eight o'clock
when we took our leave of these dear Christian friends, under the sweet
feeling of peace.
Twelfth Month 5th. — I felt a comfortable degree of inward support
this morning, which was contrary to all expectation, as I had been low
in the night. Thus am I taught, that of myself I can do nothing — that
I am nothing, and that whatever is given me is all of free grace and
mercy. About four o'clock we went to dine at John Venning's, to meet
Prince Alexander Galitzin and B. Papof. The Prince gave us many
interesting anecdotes about the difficulties they were under, while the
French were in the country, and the marvellous interpositions of Divine
Providence, in favour of the Emperor, and, indeed, of the world.
6th — We had the carriage this morning, and S. Stansfield accom
panied us to the ferry, which we crossed in the boat, and then walked
to our friend Daniel Wheeler's ; I felt comforted in the thought of
sitting down with them, once more, in their little meeting. We dined
with the family, and walked back to the ferry, which, being in a bend
of the river, is now pretty free from ice. The thermometer is not much
under 32°.
1th — W. Venning and I went to G. Stuckey, the Swedish Consul
—we found him a very agreeable man ; he told me that Count Enges
trom had written to him, expressing the great satisfaction which he had
felt in becoming acquainted with us, and desiring the consul to render
us every assistance in his power. I told him that we should have a
packet for the King in a few days, and should want a safe conveyance
for it ; he most readily offered to send it, and said that a gentleman, a
friend of his, was going to Stockholm in about eight days. That is just
the thing. We then returned to our lodgings for Stephen, and called
upon Count Lieven."

324 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
The two following days were occupied in visiting prisons, hospitals,
and fhe poor-house. William Allen says the lunatic asylum is a superb
establishment, and exceedingly well managed, and in speaking of the
large hospital, he observes; —
" The general neatness and cleanliness of the whole I have rarely
seen equalled, — never surpassed."
The poor-house which was, then, the only institution of the kind in
Petersburg, and took in the poor for an immense district round, con
tained in all, one thousand, three hundred, and forty-seven persons,
and in reference to it, he remarks —
"What we have seen to-day furnishes another powerful argument in
favour of those plans, which we have sketched out since we have been
in the city."
The plans alluded to were those which they had prepared to submit
to the King of Sweden.
Twelfth Month 10th.— We dined to-day with the Minister of the
Interior. I went reluctantly, but the visit was very satisfactory. We were
received with marked kindness and, distinction. Dear Papof sat next
to me, and we had some precious conversation during dinner. He is
deep in religious experience, and feelingly spoke of seasons of desertion
and dryness, in which he said that all he could do was to come to the
Saviour with the appeal, < Thou knowest that I love thee. If I perish,
I perish, but it shall be at thy feet. I have no hope but in thee, and if
thou wilt not look upon me any more, I must still love thee.' But then
he sweetly remarked, that after these deep trials, the light of the Lord's
countenance shone upon him again, and he went on his way rejoicing.
There was a pretty large party, and on returning to the drawing room,
we had much general conversation. I heard to-day, for the first time, of
the death of fhe Queen of England."
Whilst at Petersburg, William Allen appears to have passed through
deep mental exercise. In writing to his beloved daughter about this
period, he says —
" We feel, as it were, shut up in prison here, seeing no way out. I
think I have never been so inwardly tried in all my life, as since I came
to this city ; yet we both feel in our right place, and I have since seen
the necessity of these dispensations, for we have free entrance to persons
in the highest stations wherever we come, and it requires ballast to keep
the vessel steady. Our course would be very unsafe for any to follow,
unless the Great Pilot were at the helm ; and I have, at times, faith to
believe that he will steer me home at last, and that I shall again settle
down among those whom I so dearly love.
Twelfth Month 11th. — We breakfasted early in order to keep our
appointment to be with Prince A. Galitzin and B. Papof, at nine o'clock.
We were received in the most frank, open manner; the Prince asked

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 325
many questions relative to our Religious Society, and we freely answered
them. He was' pleased with our certificates, and has had a copy of
them taken in Russ, admiring the good order maintained in the Society
in this respect.
After staying about an hour, we rose to come away, but he would
not let us, and there being at length an interval of silence, dear Stephen
knelt down in supplication. Before we took leave, he returned the
plans for prisons and schools, expressing a wish to have a copy of them.
We called on the Princess Mestchersky, and settled to spend second-
day evening with her, to talk over the plans for schools, &c. Dr.
Paterson came to us in the evening.
Twelfth Month 13th. — We went in the carriage to the river, and
after getting out at the usual place, walked over the ice to the meeting at
D. W.'s. Stephen was engaged, at some length, in supplication. We
dined with our dear friends ; in sitting with them, I felt that the Lord
was near them, and my mind was refreshed and comforted.
In returning we again walked over the ice, and my breath was
frozen upon the fur, which was only two or three inches from my face.
We noticed, yesterday, when some women were washing, where the
ice was broken in the river, that the steam rose just as if they had been
using boiling water; this was occasioned by the condensation of vapour,
and on opening the door at Daniel Wheeler's, the moisture in the
house was so instantly condensed that it looked like smoke. — I read a
great deal in the Bible, and though under depression, felt comforted
with some passages.
14th. — The weather very cold, thermometer about 14° of Fahren
heit ; the moon scarcely sets at all now, it has rather more than twenty-
eight degrees' north declination.
We breakfasted with our friend Venning, and then went, by appoint
ment, to the minister Karadavellof,who accompanied us to the military
school. The children are educated upon our plan, but they have
added a little of the first rudiments of Pestalozzi. Gretsch has trans
lated the spelling lessons from the French into Russ, and some of the
reading lessons, but they clearly ought to have Freame's Scripture
Lessohs translated into Russ, and used in all the schools. The classes
were exercised in their different, duties, and performed admirably well ;
some of the children, who scarcely knew any thing when they were
admitted, have made great progress, though the school was only estab
lished in last Seventh Month. There were eighty-four present, and in
a room apart from these were twenty-four young men, who are training
for masters, and are learning the higher branches ; they were receiv
ing religious instruction from a young priest of a very interesting
countenance.

326 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
I was much gratified with seeing this prosperous attempt to establish
our plan of education.
In the afternoon we went to the house of our friend Papof, who
kindly offered to conduct us to the Alexander Nesky Monastery, to
introduce us to the head of the Greek Church, the Metropolitan Michael.
When we arrived, he was standing in a large room with plain furniture,
and appeared to be between fifty and sixty years of age ; he wore his
beard, and on his head was a high cylindrical cap, fitting close to his
face and covered with white lawn, which also hangs down upon his
shoulders; on the front of his cap was a cross set with diamonds or
precious stones. He had on a loose purple silk gown, with a large star
on his left breast, and a small one under it ; round his neck was a gold
chain, and suspended from it an oval piece of enamel, with a figure upon
it. He held in his hand a large string of beads, which seemed to be
made of ivory, and were of different sizes. Papof first went forward
and kissed his hand, and then introduced us ; he received us with much
mildness and respect, then seated himself, and made us sit down by
him. Though he understands French, he does not speak it fluently,
but dear Papof was always ready to interpret. The conversation was
entirely on religious subjects, and the Metropolitan expressed himself
with much candour, and without the least tincture of cavilling. In
reference to what are called the ordinances, he seemed to think that the
main difference between us was, that we took every thing in a spiritual
sense, but they believed that outward ceremonies were also necessary,
though they could not, alone, do the work, and that the substance of
religion did not consist in them. He believes, most fully, in the opera
tion of the Holy Spirit, and that without it, none can come to a
knowledge of the truth. He had tea brought in for us, — it was of an
excellent kind, but without milk, it being the time of their fast. The
discourse went on all the time in a very satisfactory manner, and we
parted, I believe, under mutual feelings of regard and esteem. We
then went to another apartment in the same monastery, to call upon the
next in authority, Bishop Philaret, who presides over the whole of the
education of their clergy, and is considered a very pious man. He has
a fine bushy beard, and his hair, which is two or three feet long, hangs
upon his shoulders — indeed this is the case with their priests in general,
The Bishop, as well as the Metropolitan, asked questions with great
candour and mildness, and it was observed by one of them, that the
pious Herrnists never received the ordinances outwardly, but they did
not need them as they enjoyed the communion spiritually ; however,
when circumstances favoured it, they thought it a duty to comply with
the form. We consider this a large concession, but we find that the
Greek clergy are exceedingly liberal and tolerant, provided nothing

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 327
disrespectful is said of their rites, ceremonies and worship. It was past
nine o'clock before we quitted the monastery ; we took leave under
some precious feeling, having spent above four hours there. Our dear
friend Papof seemed much pleased with the interview, and we were
very well satisfied with it also. We had some delightful conversation with
him on our way home — we always feel much sweetness and peace
when we are in his company.
Twelfth Month 15th  We went to dine at our kind friend John
Venning's, where we met Dr. Paterson, Swan, Rutt, Solomon, &c,
and had a pleasant evening.
16th  My mind calm and rather comforted. .W. V. breakfasted
with us, and we afterwards went to D'Junkovsky, who gave us very
important information relative to their criminal process here. The
punishment of death is never inflicted, though it is regularly pronounced
in many cases according to obsolete laws. Simple robbery, or thieving,
if it does not amount to twenty roubles, is punished by sending the
offenders to the workhouse, where they are obliged to work till they
get a sufficient sum to pay the amount of the thing stolen.
W. V. dined with us, and in the evening we all went in a sledge to
pay a visit to the Princes Sophia Mestchersky, and show her the prison
and school plans prepared for Sweden. We spent an hour or two with
her very agreeably, and left the plans for her to read. W. V. returned
with us to our lodgings, and staid conversing on religious subjects till
very late.
11th. — Stephen and I had a sledge this morning to take us to meet
ing. It thaws fast, and when we arrived at the place where we usually
cross the river, there was a good deal of water which must be passed
through before we reached the firm ice. I feared we should be thoroughly
soaked, if not overset ; with some difficulty, however, we got on to the
ice and drove over, when, on coming to the opposite side, we again
found a great deal of water, and, as Stephen said, were within a hair's
breadth of being overset ; but we were favoured to get out safely at
last, and were, as usual, gladly welcomed by D. W. and his family. In
our little meeting we were mercifully permitted to feel our spirits
refreshed, and dear Stephen addressed us acceptably. We staid
dinner, and afterwards walked to the ferry, where we used to cross in
a boat ; planks are now laid upon the ice, so that we came over with
out any difficulty. On our way home we called on the Princess Mest
chersky, who returned the plans which we had lent her to read. On
reaching our lodgings I was glad to find a packet from home, contain
ing a letter from my beloved child, which I read, of course, with deep
interest, and though I was thankful that they were all preserved in
health to the 19th of Eleventh Month, yet I felt quite nervous afterwards.

328 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
John Barry notices the death of poor Dr. Evans. I had also a letter
from W. H. Pepys, giving notice of abuse of us, in the Monthly
Magazine, on the subject of Lancaster, &c, and one from Robert
Forster, with much interesting information.
In the evening Lanskoi called, and brought me a handsome present
from the Philanthropic Society here, of all their transactions, from the
first, elegantly bound; another member of their society, a pious old
man, came to visit us. It appears that, from the year 1812, the places
of worship, here, have been much better attended than previous to that
period, when they were almost deserted ; this is partly attributed to the
marvellous interpositions of Divine Providence, in favour of this country,
having excited strong feelings of gratitude, and partly to the pious care
of the Emperor, in which he is nobly seconded by Prince Alexander
Galitzin and Papof, to advance the most spiritually-minded of the
clergy, and thus prepare the way for improvement in that body.
I find that the number of beggars in Petersburg is estimated at one
thousand, but that of poor is very far greater.
Twelfth Month 18th. — Dr. Paterson called, and we went with him
to see a particular friend of his, Senator Hablitz, who is, also, a great
iriend to the Bible cause, and was one of the first who promoted it here.
He was, at one time, private secretary to Prince Potempkin, under the
Empress Catharine ; he seems a very sensible man, is rather elderly,
and has retired from the bustle of public life for some years past. We
saw the room in which six persons, of whom Dr. Paterson was one,
first met to form the Bible Society here. I felt much at home at his
house ; his brother and son-in-law were present, and we had a good
deal of interesting conversation. His son-in-law is Papof 's right hand.
Hablitz is quite a friend to the school cause, and I am to come and
spend an evening with him, in order to talk the matter over; W. V.
was with us. We left Dr. Paterson at his own house, and then ealled
on Papof; he turned the conversation to the subject of schools, and
told us that our visit to the military school was in the paper ; this was,
by no means, pleasing information, as we had much rather work in
private. I again urged attention to the reading lessons, and enforced
the importance of their being taken from the Scriptures; I see that
Papof hardly knows whether to approve the measure, with regard to
education, or not, and yet, just in this state of things, some discou
ragement was most injudiciously thrown in. This I felt deeply, and
expressed to Papof, in very strong terms, my opinion of the vast im
portance of universal education, and that no measure could be better
calculated to raise Russia in the scale of civilization. We now came
home, and W. V. staid supper with us.
Twelfth Month 19th. — Stephen and I took a long walk to Count

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 329
Zauboff's, to see M. Durm ; we found her at home, and saw, also, the
Count and General Suchteln's son-in-laws, who is, likewise, a General,
and is about to set off, to-morrow, for Stockholm.
I spent the afternoon and evening in my room, endeavouring to relax
and unbend my mind, which had been much depressed by being kept
constantly on the stretch of anxiety and exercise, and I found great
relief from it.
• 20th. — My mind was comfortably supported during the night, and I
felt, at times, a sweet and confirming evidence that I am in my right
place, but it requires some degree of faith, to remain here in mental
bonds, and deeply tried in spirit beside.
After breakfast we went to meeting at Daniel Wheeler's, walking
over the river at the usual ferry. Dear Stephen had very suitable
matter to communicate, and, after dinner, we had an opportunity for
religious worship, in which I felt something refreshing and comforting,
near and over us. It seemed as though it might be right for me to
address Daniel Wheeler's sons, but a feeling of my own weakness, and
utter unworthiness, made me afraid, so they shook hands, &c. ; but I
lingered, and they paused again, when I communicated what arose at
the time, and felt peace and sweetness in it. We then took leave and
walked to the ferry, and over the ice, from whence we rode home.
The evening was quite undisturbed by any visitors. After supper dear
Stephen and I had some very edifying conversation; my mind was
low and tender, and after we had sat some time, he was engaged in
supplication. On taking leave, to retire to my own room, I remarked,
1 The Master has been kind to us this evening ; let us repose in his
love.' v
Twelfth Month 21st. — W. V. came this morning, and said they were
much pleased with the opportunity we had at Hablitz's, that a person,
of very Considerable power in the government, wished to see us, and
that he had appointed next fourth-day evening, at Hablitz's, for that
purpose — all the things seem working well. After dinner I finished
the French copy of the plans for the poor, and, about five o'clock, we
went to Count Lieven's, where we met the Princess Mestchersky, and
the wife of Pezerovius ; we were received in the kindest manner. The
Count had a manuscript copy of an attack upon the system for edu
cating the poor, upon our plan, in France, written by a priest ; he says
that a copy had been sent to Prince Galitzin. This, of course, intro
duced the subject of schools, and I had to combat the argument so
often refuted— that learning, being an instrument of power, should be
kept from the poor, lest they should make a bad use of it. I showed
them that this argument would cut at the root of all civilization, and
reminded the Count of their laudable zeal in printing the Bible, and
now, at length, in common Russ, having, at the same time, thirty

330 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
millions of people who could not read it. The Count and Stephen soon
got into conversation, and I was with the Princess and her friend, both
of whom speak English. The Princess wished for the plan of a school
room, and I promised to make one for her. I find she has printed and
circulated as many as ninety thousand tracts ; we staid till past nine
o'clock, and had a good deal of interesting conversation with the
Count. He has to provide a superintendent and professors for the
university at Dorpat, which the Emperor has given in charge to him.
They are Lutherans there, and it is a seminary for their priests. The
Count feels, deeply, the vast importance of keeping out any who might
propagate the poison of German infidelity, politely called philosophy,
and though this care is a heavy burthen upon him, I rejoice that it is
in such hands ; this is another proof of the pious disposition of the
Emperor. After supper I read the attack upon the schools in France, and not
without feelings of indignation at the attempt to keep mankind in
ignorance. Twelfth Month 22nd.- — We now have but six hours full daylight.
We went to dine at Dr. Paterson's, at three o'clock ; there was a large
party, and among the rest a Moravian Bishop and his wife, who had
come from Switzerland, and were going to Sarepta ; he seems to be a
pious mild man. There was also a Moravian clergyman and his wife,
Swan, and several young men ; we had a pleasant time with them,
and walked home in the evening. I felt great love for Swan and some
of the young men.
23rd. — A frosty morning, but no severe cold ; snow is much wanted
for sledge ways, on which to convey the provisions from the interior,
W. V. dined with us, and between four and five, we went to take up
Dr. Paterson, on our way to Senator Hablitz, who had invited us to
meet Count Kotshuby, a person of great consequence in Russia, and
who, though not in an official situation, is the Emperor's confidential
adviser on political matters. The Count speaks English, is affable and
pleasant, has a penetrating eye, and looks, at times, as if he were
thinking deeply. We entered into free conversation, but he soon turned
quickly round, and asked me what our views were in coming into this
country ; I smiled and told him that I felt no hesitation in returning an
unequivocal answer to that question. I then informed him that our
object was to find out and visit pious characters, for whatever might be
their religious denomination, if they were really pious, we considered
them as members of the universal church, and a part of the great
Christian family ; that we felt a deep interest in the temporal and eternal
welfare of our fellow-creatures universally, and therefore, as we went
from place to place, we visited their public establishments, as poor-
houses, schools, hospitals, and prisons ; that we did not come fo see

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 331
objects of mere curiosity, but to discharge what appeared to be laid on
us as a duty ; that so far from having any interested objects in view, we
had left all our own interests behind us, together with what was dearest to
us in life, and should be glad to return as soon as we could feel released
in our own minds. I further stated, that if, in our visits to their estab
lishments, we found any thing likely to benefit our own countries, we
should be glad to take it home, or, if from our experience or information,
we could communicate any thing likely to be useful to them, we should
feel equal pleasure in doing so; with this he seemed to be much
satisfied. I told him that if there were any other questions he wished
to ask, we hoped he would do it most freely. He said no ; that his
motive for making the inquiry he did, was, to know in what way he
could be of service to us. We then went into the subject of prisons,
and Stephen explained what had been done in America. I endeavoured
to impress his mind with the importance of public co-operation in
strengthening the hands of government, whose first and primary object
was the universal good ; but that the wisest laws would be framed in
vain, if there were not persons to execute them ; that the hired officers
could not be expected to carry into effect the full intentions of the
government, without the aid of those who would disinterestedly give
up a portion of their time, to prosecute plans calculated to benefit
society. He seemed to think that the prison plans would certainly
succeed. We then talked about schools, but here he said there would
be a great weight of opposition and prejudice; he thought, however,
it might be overcome, and said he had not the least objection to put
the plans in practice upon his own estates, which are very extensive
I then fully stated all the important bearing of this great question, and
he advised me to put down in writing what I had said to him, and give
it to Prince Galitzin ; we had much more highly interesting conversa
tion, and about nine o'clock took our leave. The Count has fully
opened the way for us to consult him whenever we are disposed.
Twelfth Month 24th — Being alone this morning, and under great
depression, I was enabled, I trust, in the spirit of prayer, to lay my
cause before the Lord, who seeth in secret, and to commend my dear
child and all that is nearest to me in life, to his merciful protection. I
took a little walk for the benefit of the air, and to relieve my spirits.
W. V. dined with us, and after he was gone, dear Stephen and I com
muned together with satisfaction. After tea, we called upon Count
Lieven, and were glad to find Papof with him. We had some
interesting conversation with him respecting the French manuscript
and the school concern ; nothing could have been better timed than
this visit. We did not remain long, seeing that .they were engaged
with some letters, but the sweetness of their spirits was to be felt.
Twelfth Month 26th.— Very low in the night, but at last was enabled

332 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
to find some little access to that Power who alone can give help and
strength. I was a good deal depressed ,during the day, and took a
walk by myself, longing for some solitary place, where I could pour
out my heart to the Lord. I took the direction towards the Gulf of
Finland, and saw several vessels frozen in ; among them were some
large steam-boats, and many people were walking about on the ice. I
went out at the gate of the city, and, about a verst beyond it, came to
the triumphal arch, on the top of which is the representation of six
horses abreast, fixed to an antique car, containing a winged figure,
holding out a wreafh. I suppose this is considered as the commence
ment of the country ; the appearance is very different from England ;
no beautiful hills, but one universal flat. Petersburg itself is built upon
a bog, so that the houses shake as the carriages drive along.
21th.~-M.y spirits are rather better this morning, and I was comforted
in reading the Psalms; I just opened at the part where the duty of
trusting in the Lord is pathetically enforced. After breakfast, S. Stans-
field came to us, and we held our meeting, the state of the ice deterring
us from attempting to go over to D. Wheeler's. I was a little comforted
and inwardly refreshed ; the evening was passed in my own room, and
I felt rather encouraged in the belief, that the Master was not far off.
28th. — We went, by appointment, to Prince Alexander Galitzin,
taking up our friend Papof by the way. We were received by the
Prince, with the greatest cordiality and openness, and had free conver
sation with them for nearly two- hours. The Prince says that the
Emperor is expected in about a week ; I remarked, that, in no part
of his conversation, did he turn to the subject of schools ; he talked
a good deal about their Philanthropic Society, and offered to give
us introductions to see the military hospital, also the school at the
Smolney monastery, and the other institutions there. He told us of
some females in it, who are called Veuves de la Charite, and who are
under a vow to serve the Lord, in the persons of the sick; they
accordingly visit hospitals, &c. Their vow permits them to retire
from the service, if disabled by infirmity, or, in short, when they will.
About eleven we took our leave, and went on to the monastery to
deliver a letter, which Julia von Bielke had given us, to the superin
tendent of the boarding-school, and were respectfully received by a
young woman, who seems very sensible and clever. She said that the
superintendent begged to apologize for not coming to us at once, but
it was their monthly examination, and she was just then engaged ; she
requested us to take seats, and when the superintendent came she
received us very politely, and offered to show us the institution, when
ever we gave her a day's notice. It appears that seven hundred girls
are boarded here, some of whom belong to the highest families. The
Bourgeoise are educated in different apartments, and kept quite distinct.

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 333
We called, on our way back, upon the Princess Mestchersky, who is
very anxious to receive all the information I can give her on the subject
of girls' schools, and I am to be with her expressly on that subject, on
fifth-day evening. On our return home, W. Venning informed us that
there was no time to lose in getting our papers ready for Sweden ; we
accordingly made up our package, containing plans respecting schools,
prisons, and the care of the poor, and took it to the Swedish Consul."
In a letter addressed to the King of Sweden, accompanying these
papers, W. A. thus writes : —
" We rejoice, with deep gratitude, to the Author of all good, when
we see those, who, from their exalted situation, have the power of
exercising an extensive influence, disposed to act in unison with the
divine will, by endeavouring to diffuse as much comfort and happiness
as possible throughout the great family of man. Being convinced that
the King is actuated by these motives, we beg leave to present three
plans, founded on the sentiments conveyed in the written documents,
which we had the pleasure of presenting to the King when at Stockholm.
The details maybe considered as minute, but they are submitted as
hints, which may be modified in any way that may be thought best
adapted to local circumstances.
We trust that the King will excuse the freedom we have used, and
will be convinced that we have no interested or private objects in view,
but having devoted much time to the management of public establish
ments, for the improvement of the poorer classes of the people, and
deeply feeling their vast importance to mankind, we submit the result
of our experience — and once more imploring the divine blessing upon
every effort of the King to ameliorate the condition of suffering humanity,
we subscribe ourselves his sincerely attached and very respectful
friends, &c."
In writing to Count Engestrom on the subject of these plans, W.
Allen says —
" If any part of them should prove useful, we shall feel amply re
warded by the reflection that we have been enabled, in the smallest
degree, to promote the happiness and welfare of a country, for whose
ruler and inhabitants we have felt a disinterested and christian love."
" Twelfth Month 29th.- — No snow yet, which is a great calamity to
the country, as the frozen provisions are stopped for want of sledge
roads, and there is great danger of their being utterly spoiled by the
mild weather. The practice is to kill a large stock of cattle, poultry,
&c, one thousand versts in the interior, and then bring them down in
sledges to Petersburg, over the snow; the quantity sent when the snow
sets in, is more than enough to supply all the consumption of the city
for two months. This frozen market usually begins about this time.
It is fifty years since so mild a winter was known here.

334 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1818.
W. Venning came in to tea, and we went together to our friend
D'Junkovsky, who received us in his usual kind manner; he says that.
there are fifty-two governments in Russia, besides the new one, Bessa
rabia. I asked him for the definition of his term 'gentleman,' ina
paper he was so kind as to give me, and find that it includes every one
who is one of their noblesse, or a member of any of their fourteen orders
or ranks ; we had much interesting conversation, and parted about nine
o'clock. Stephen and I conversed a good deal after supper, and felt
sweetly united together.
Twelfth Month 30th. — Some inward support under feelings of low-
ness. P. Galakof called to accompany us to the institutions of the
Philanthropic Society. We first went to an establishment for twelve
poor infirm and destitute women, where every thing appeared in good
order and very comfortable ; they were just going to sit down to dinner ;
buckwheat is very commonly used for food in Russia. The widow,
who has the superintendence, seems a very suitable person, and there
was a peaceful feeling among them. We then drove to a boarding
school for twenty-two girls; the house, premises, &c, were clean and
in good order; their principal occupation seemed to be a sort of tambour
work, or ornamental needlework in a frame. They are taught reading
and writing, and we had a very creditable specimen of both. They
have copies of the Scriptures, and a catechism in Russ is to be found
in all the schools.
We visited another school upon the same plan for twenty-two girls,
but here the case was very different, and presented a striking contrast
to the other establishment ; it is rarely visited, and forcibly confirmed
me in my opinion of the propriety of ladies' committees. After going
to see several other institutions, we returned to dinner between four
and five. In the evening Skotcherby came in with a pious young man
whom he brought before, and three others ; one of them was a General,
and a Director of the Bible Society. We had a good deal of religious
conversation, which was very satisfactory.
This morning, as I rode along, my mind was preciously comforted
and encouraged. This led me to consider what day of the week it
was, and the recollection of fourth-day brought my beloved child, and
those who are so dear to me, in our meeting at Gracechurch Street,
forcibly before me ; I felt sweet unity with some of their spirits, and
more sense of good than for a long time past."
In writing to his daughter, about this period, William Allen says —
" Thou art, my beloved child, doubly dear to me — dear by the closest
ties of nature, and even still dearer by that precious union of spirit which
is produced by religious feeling. I am sometimes obliged to wipemy
eyes in order to get on with reading thy letters. Thou would'st see,
by my last letter, that my mind has been under great depression, but I

1818. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 335
have been mercifully raised above it for some days past, and have been
given to feel strongly that I am in my right place."
That a very close union of spirit did indeed exist between this affec
tionate parent and his only child, may be seen by the following extract
from one of her letters addressed to him before he set out on this
journey, and when his prospects respecting it were not decided : —
»I cannot express to thee, my dear father, what I sometimes feel
for thee, when I think I, can clearly see some part of the work that is
appointed thee, and the path that is opening before thee. I have
several times remembered Job Scott's language where he says, ' Come
out of all He (the Lord) calls thee from,' (even if it should be from
those things which thou might'st have undertaken from a belief that it
was once right for thee to be engaged in them,) and Job Scott adds,
' into all He calls thee to.' 0 my dear father ! mayest thou be entirely
resigned, though it should seem to thee as if thou wert required to give
up all to follow the great Master, for we may remember that precious
promises are made to such; it seems to have sounded in my ears, ' The
Master is come and calleth for thee.' I thought I felt a sweet persuasion
that, however thou might'st be sometimes cast down, thou art peculiarly
under divine protection and regard, and that if the full surrender is
made, which I believe thou wilt be strengthened to make, He will be
with thee always, even unto the end. I know it is a serious thing to
write thus, and I do it with fear. Should'st thou be uneasy with it, do
not be afraid of discouraging me by telling me so, and in this case, I
believe thou canst make allowance for the weakness and inexperience
of a child."
" Twelfth Month 31st. — According to an appointment made for us,
by Prince A. Galitzin, we went to see the large hospital, under the
patronage of the Empress Dowager. We were received with great
openness, benevolence, and respect, by — de Toutolmen, a Senator,
who is high in government ; the Baron de Wrangel also accompanied
us. It is a magnificent building, with a portico, supported by lofty
columns in the centre. It is open, day and night, to all applicants,
who bring a passport from the police, but soldiers being provided for
elsewhere, are not considered eligible, nor domestic servants, who have
a claim upon their lords. There are eight physicians, in constant
attendance, two, in succession, remaining below, to attend to the out
patients, and the rest being up stairs. The women are on one side,
and the men on the other. There is a female superintendent, who
presides over the nurses, and six of the Veuves de la Charite are always
there. A black board is placed at the head of each bed, on which the
patient's name is neatly written' in chalk, and the name of the disease
in Latin. The Emperor suggested its being in that language, remark
ing that it would be intelligible to those, to whom it was of any conse-

336 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
quence to be known, and on many occasions, if the patients knew the
nature of their disease, it might sink their spirits and impede their
recovery. This is another trait of his delicate and feeling mind.
The Empress Dowager places large sums of money at the disposal
of the Senator for the relief of cases of peculiar distress, and when a
peasant, who comes from the country for work in summer, is obliged,
by illness, to resort to this hospital, and is cured, he is supplied with
fur boots and warm clothing to return home. Every thing in the power
of art to alleviate the miseries of human nature, appears to be done
here. There is an excellent system of ventilation ; the most perfect
neatness and order prevail, and, in short, it may be considered as a
complete model, — I have never seen it equalled anywhere. It seems
the work of a most benevolent mind, guided by superior intellect and
working with unbounded means.
The kind attention of the Senator de Toutolmen, and the Baron.de
Wrangel merited, and had our grateful acknowledgments. In the
afternoon we went to the Princess Mestchersky's ; I gave her a copy
of the Abbe Gaultier's Geography for her daughters, and we had much
conversation about a girls' school here, upon our plan ; she is earnestly
bent upon having one, and has no doubt of procuring the Emperor's
sanction. In the course of the evening a Countess and her husband
came in ; the Princess's sister came down to tea, and we had a good
deal of general conversation on the education of the poor, &c. Among
other topics, religion was brought forward, and the Countess's husband
had a good deal to say upon this point. I told him that it was one
thing to talk of religion theoretically, and quite another thing to expe
rience the operation of it in the heart, and my opinion was, that the
true Christian derived little benefit from going into deep, mysterious,
and curious points; and that his business was more with the heart than
the head. After this the Princess's husband, &c, joined us, and we
had some free and agreeable conversation.
First Month 1st, 1819 — We went again to the Smolney monastery,
and visited the institution for the deaf and dumb. This is also under
the patronage of the Empress Dowager. The director is a Frenchman,
and teaches on the plan of the Abbe Sicard and Epee. There are
twenty-four boys and twenty girls ; they were all neatly clothed, and
many of them had very interesting countenances. Some of the boys
are taught useful 'trades, as tailoring, carpentering, turning, and shoe-
making, and the girls learn needlework and knitting. The rooms are
spacious and in excellent order. We then went to the apartment of
the Veuves de Charite, where everything is neat in the highest degree;
indeed the whole concern is truly magnificent. There are about twenty-
eight children belonging to the widows, maintained and educated here.
We went into the refectory to see them dine, — the room is above one

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN.

337

hundred yards in length, and I calculated that the company dining in
it consisted of about three hundred persons :— it was truly a grand sight.
The kitchen contains a complete apparatus to cook with steam.
¦Stephen went to" Count Lieven's in the evening; my spirits were
low, and I staid alone and read in fhe Bible for above an hour.
First Month 2nd  We went, after breakfast, to see the institution for
'LesEnfans.Trouves,' under the patronage of the Empress Mother.
It does not depend upon the Crown, but has funds of its own, which
are amply sufficient, and there is sometimes even a surplus at the end
of the year. The buildings are extremely spacious, and, if we under
stood rightly, contained three thousand inhabitants. All children are
received who are presented for admission, and if the baptismal registers
are sent with any of them, and a wish is expressed respecting the
religion in which a child is to be brought up, it is educated accordingly,
but if not, they are all educated in the Greek Church. This conduct is
liberal, and does honour to the tolerant spirit of the directors. From
fifteen, to twenty infants are received in a day. The apartments, beds,
and every thing were clean, and in the nicest order, and perfect tran
quillity seemed to reign. Some of the children are nursed in the country,
and come back to the institution to receive their education. They are
instructed in various, works of industry, as well as the usual branches
of learning, and are kept till they are eighteen years of age.
The Empress Mother has this establishment under her particular care,
and visits it constantly, without any notice, sometimes early in the morn
ing, sometimes in the evening, and sometimes at noon. There is, also,
an institution for five hundred lying-in women, but that is not shown to
any one. The Empress Mother, however, visits it herself. Upon the
whole, I must again remark that, as far as a cursory observation in walk
ing through the rooms can go, the establishment for ' Les Enfans
Trouves' exceeds any thing of the kind that I have ever seen, in all my
travels hitherto.
The thermometer is about 14° to-day, and there is, now, snow
enough on the ground fo permit the sledges to pass freely ; the frozen
provisions begin to arrive.
In the evening we just called upon Papof, and endeavoured to
encourage him under his cares and burdens.
3rd. — The Comforter was near ; my mind was centred, and I was
favoured to put my trust and confidence in the Shepherd of Israel.
First Month 4th. — I find, from several persons, that there are but few
poor in Russia. The great landed proprietors, who are called lords,
are bound to take care of their serfs ; or rather the serfs are put in a
situation to take care of themselves. They each receive a certain portion
of land to cultivate, and if it produces more than sufficient for the sup
port of themselves and their families, the surplus must be given to their
Vol. I. 22

338 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
lords. In many cases a certain tax is levied upon them, andj if this is
regularly paid, they are allowed all that remains for themselves, so that
some of them are even rich, and prefer their state of dependence to
liberty ; for if any one injures or oppresses them, they appeal to their
chief, who, naturally, takes a pride in protecting his own vassals. These
serfs have certain regulations, and a kind of organization among them
selves, and are much more independent than is generally imagined.
The system, however, is a very bad one ; and when the master is
needy or unfeeling, he may exercise great oppression.
W. V. called, and says that the Princess Mestchersky has obtained
the consent of the wife of the Minister of the Interior, Karadavellof, to
become president of the girls' school, and she wishes me to send her
the plans without delay.
5th  It is, now, quite a thaw, — a circumstance not remembered
here, at this date, by any person living ; great quantities of the frozen
provisions are spoiling, and many of the poor must suffer dreadfully.
The Emperor arrived yesterday quite privately ; he went to, what
is called, the Cazan Church,, but returned immediately to his country
palace, about fifteen miles off, where Prince Alexander Galitzin is'with
him. I was at work, this morning, on my memorial to the Emperor, upon
the subject of schools, and finished it. Wrote a letter to J. T. Barry."
In this letter William Allen says —
" We are both favoured with the renewed evidence, from time to
time, that we are in our proper allotment, trying as it is to the natural
part which loves ease ; though, at seasons, we go even weeping on our
way, yet we feel we are entrusted with precious seed — what may
beeome of it must be left to the Lord of the harvest."
" In the evening dear Stephen and I went to PapoPs, and had some
interesting religious conversation with him. I gave him the letter for
the Emperor, to show, to Prince A. Galitzin.
First Month 1th — We went to Daniel Wheeler's this morning,
where I was refreshed in our little meeting. I have been learning some
Russ to-day, and intend to devote some time to it. In the evening
Skotcherby and Markellus came in, and we had much satisfactory
conversation on the subject of religion. They have very clear ideas,
and seem, so far, to agree with us on every great point.
9th. — We had an appointment, this morning, to visit a large cotton-
spinning manufactory, at Alexandroski, about ten miles distant, but, as
Stephen had a bad headache, I was reluctantly ohliged to go without
him: Samuel Stansfield and Dr. Paterson accompanied me. The
works are conducted by Alexander Wilson, an Englishman, but the
concern belongs to the Empress Mother. It does not yield any profit
at present, — indeed, she has to make up a deficiency at the end of the

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 339
year, but it affords employment to. about seven hundred and fifty young
people, who are boarded and lodged on the premises. There are,
besides, considerable numbers employed at the mills, but, being mar
ried,-- they live out of the house. Many of the arrangements, in regard
to labour and recreatibn, appear excellent, and the school instruction
is very satisfactory. There is a boarding school, at a little distance,
where one hundred children are receiving education, and there are also
evening schools, as well as what are called Sunday schools. I was
principally desirous of seeing this establishment, with a view to ascer
tain, the moral state of the population, and I must say that I was
gratified in no common degree; not a single instance of immoral
conduct has occurred among the females' for the last four years, and
on the men's side there has only been a very slight exception known ;
this referred to intoxication: Every thing is neat and clean, both in
the building, and in the persons and clothing of the young people.
There is a library for the use of the wdrk-people, who appeared in
good health, and as if they were extremely well treated. We went
down to the dining-room, where they were just going to dinner, and it
was a most gratifying sight. Here, as well as in their recreations, the
males and females are in separate divisions. The dinner is conducted
in silence, and I did not observe any thing like lightness in a single
countenance, ih all this large company, and yet there was a general
appearance of comfort and happiness. We went into the kitchen,
which is spacious, and fitted up in capital style with a number of
steamers. It appears that the excellent regulations in this establishment are due
to the Empress Mother, under whose patronage and control the works
are carried on.
Provision is made for the sick at a very nice hospital, where every
thing was neat and clean.
First Month 11th. — We received a note from Papof last evening,
inviting us to be with Prince A. Galitzin at nine o'clock this morning;
we accordingly went, and were cordially received by him and Papof
as usual. He told us that the Emperor had spoken to him about us,
saying that we were his old acquaintance, and that he would appoint a
time for seeing us in a few days, but his hands were so full at present,
that he could not exactly fix the time. The Prince is cheerful and
lively, and we had much general conversation. He gave us some
remarkable accounts of poor people among the peasants in Russia,
and particularly of one man about sixty or seventy versts on the other
side of Moscow, who seemed to have the gift of prayer in an extraor
dinary degree. When he was a lad he prevailed upon the bell-ringer
to teach him to read privately; he made rapid progress, and at length
brought the Psalter home, and read to his parents, who were perfectly

340 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
astonished, and would not believe but that he had learned parts of it
by heart, until they took him to the priest, and had him examined. He
then read their church books and the Fathers, and also obtained a sight
of the Scriptures, all which he studied so thoroughly, that he could
readily quote them. As he grew up to man's estate, he was especially
fervent in prayer, and many remarkable cures were said to be performed
through his instrumentality; but he used to say to the people, 'lama
poor worm; I can do nothing for you, but you must pray for your
selves, and have faith in God.' He then prayed with them. On one
day in the week he gave religious instruction at his own house to all
who came there, and often has he been known to stand from morning
to night. The stir was so great that the priest became alarmed, though
he took care to hold his meetings on the days when other places of
worship were not open. It was found that those who attended him
became more pious, and that he could quote Scripture and religious
books in defence of his doctrine and practice, and at length the priest
himself became convinced. The poor flocked to him in such numbers,
that he had constantly from fifty to one hundred about him, and on
some one asking how he could maintain so many, he replied, ' He that
fed the multitude with the five barley loaves does it.' His neighbours
cultivate and reap his land, and do every thing for him, saying to him,
we will take care of these things, — you have nothing to do but mind
religion and pray for us. He is sometimes sent for to Moscow, and,
in his absence, the priest keeps up the religious meetings on the usual
day of the week. He was once stopped on his way by the police, who
took him for some quack, or suspicious person, and put him into
prison, where he was mixed with drunkards and other bad characters
of all descriptions. Here he improved the opportunity to preach to
them, showing, the terrible consequences of sin, and how contrary
drunkenness, &c, is to the doctrine taught in the Scriptures, which he
quoted freely. The poor wretches were astonished, and one of the
officers coming to see what he was about, interrupted him. The poor
man maintained that it was a duty to warn and exhort sinners, and that
if the officer were an advocate for a contrary doctrine, he was an
advocate for the cause of the devil. The officer then went to his
superior, who, on conversing with the man, and finding what he really
was, discharged him. — The Prince kept us, as usual, about two hours —
I say kept us, for, knowing the value of his time*, we are careful not to
intrude. We afterwards called on the Princess Sophia Mestchersky,
where we conversed about their committee for the girls' school, and
then returned to our lodgings, well satisfied with this morning's occu
pation. First Month 13th. — Letters from home arrived to-day, containing
good accounts to the 22nd of Twelfth Month. This comforted me, and

1819, OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 341
I was edified by the resignation displayed by my beloved child, under
the prospect of my prolonged absence from home, for I know how dear
I am to her.
First Month 15th.— Our Friend Skotcherby called, and took us to
see a pious poor widow, with six children. We had a comfortable
time with them ; there appeared a good deal of sweetness in the children,
and their mother seems to be a sedate, religious character. We were
much pleased with this visit, and afterwards went to see a poor German
family, and a poor old woman.
On retiring to my own room at night, I went on with Russ until past
twelve o'clock.
16th. — My mind was sweetly comforted with the feeling of divine
good ; it was_beyond all doubt, and I felt that I could not look towards
home with any prospect of returning soon. Stephen was also inwardly
comforted, and we were renewedly united in spirit.
YHh. — At meeting this morning, I felt a precious covering over us,
and my mind was humbled and contrited. Stephen said a few words
on that hope, which is as an anchor of^the soul, and entereth into that
within the veil, and on that divine power which can preserve under
every circumstance. Some subjects having opened on my mind with
¦sweetness, I broke through all discouragements and said, in sub
stance, that as the power of God was infinite, so was his love — that the
love of the Good Shepherd for his own exceeded all finite comprehen
sion. The situation of the poor disciples, after the crucifixion of their
Lord, had been brought livingly to my remembrance, when, dejected
and discouraged, they went into an obscure retreat and shut the door;
then it was that their dear Lord appeared in the midst of them with the
all-consoling salutation, 'Peace be unto you;' and that ever since the
time of his outward appearance, down to the present period, he con
tinues to speak peace to his true sheep, notwithstanding the world may
make trouble ; that his eye is over them, wherever scattered, and that
it was under the deep feeling of the efficacy of this love, that the
apostle exclaimed in holy triumph, ' Who shall separate us from the
love of Christ,' &c. It is by clinging to the things of the world, that
we lose our interest in our blessed Saviour ; by choosing the things in
which the Lord delighteth not, that we become weak. Before this
refreshing meeting closed, Stephen addressed a few words of encourage
ment to E. Uhde.
First Month 18th — The ceremony of blessing the waters of the Neva
was performed to-day, when the clergy went in procession to a sort of
temple, erected on the ice, carrying two crucifixes, a Bible in a glass
case, &c. I did not see it, but heard the cannon fire, and understand
that the military were drawn out in grand parade. Immense crowds

342 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE "1819.
of poor people go to get some of the water, which they keep all the
year, and consider it a preservative against sickness'and many un
pleasant things. A hole is cut in the ice, and on the arrival of the
procession, a priest reads for a short time in the Bible, after which he
dips a hollow cross into the water three times ; all that 'drops from this
cross is carefully preserved and considered especially precious. He
then puts in a bunch of birch rods, and sprinkles the people as far as
he can reach.
20th  We went this morning to see Senator Hablitz, and' spent an
hour with him very agreeably. He informed us of a large settlement
of Mennonites in the Crimea, under the protection of the Emperor.
They are in a very flourishing state, and enriching themselves and the
country by their Industry. They have emigrated' in crowds from
Prussia, on account of the military regulations in that Country. From
hence we went to the Princess Mestchersky and sat some time with her.
We find that the school plan is going on rapidly in the army, and that
schools in Siberia are so well organized that they have had one of the
masters from thence to Petersburg. We returned home about two,
and then went to dine with Count Lieven and his amiable family.
23rd. — Walter Venning called and brought the news of the death
of the Queen of Wurtemberg, who was sister to the Emperor. I have
always considered her as a sensible, clever woman, but I feel particu
larly for the, Emperor, who, I believe, was affectionately attached to
her. In the evening an official request came to us from the Empress
Dowager, to call upon her at the palace, at one o'clock to-morrow, on
the subject of the charitable institutions under her care, she having
been informed that we had visited them.
24th — I was exceedingly low this morning, but after a time of re
tirement before the Lord, my mind became calm and I was comforted.
We went to the palace as requested, but, after passing through several
rooms, a person who appeared to be a nobleman, came up, and address
ing us very kindly, informed us that on account of the affecting intelli
gence of the death of her daughter, which it appears the Empress had
only received the evening before, it was impossible .for her to see any
body, but she wished to converse with us on the subject of our school
plan, and requested to know if we intended to leave Petersburg soon.
We replied that we should probably stay some little time longer, and
would wait her orders at a future day.
First Month 26th — I went this, morning to Dr. Paterson's, at the
Bible house, where, as there is now a good deal of snow on the ground,
they are loading twenty sledges with Bibles for the interior. They are
to set off in a train to-day for Teflis on the other side of Mount Caucasus,
a distance of more than two thousand miles ; the same horses go all the

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 343
way, under the care of two or three drivers. The Bibles are in the
Greek, Armenian, Persian, and other languages, and are a supply for
the Bible Society at Teflis.
Stephen and I had an interview with Papof to satisfaction. He ac
knowledged, more fully than he had done before, the great importance
of the subject of the school plans.
21th. — We went out and made several Calls this morning ; first upon
Baron Wylie, the surgeon of the Emperor, who is always his personal
attendant; lie is a native of Scotland, and as Thomas Clarkson had
seen him at Aix la Chapelle, and spoken to him about us, he received
us gladly. He wished me to see the hospital under his care, and the
medical school for educating surgeons and physicians for thearmy.
He seems a frank, open character. We then went to the Princess
Mestchersky; found her indisposed and under depression, but with her
usual self-command and resignation. It seems that the body of the
Greek clergy have taken the alarm at the publications which have ap
peared in favour of vital and spiritual religion, but it does not appear
that the Metropolitan or Philaret are among the number. Under these
circumstances the Princess has suspended the printing of the tracts.
Thus I am disappointed in having some of the ' Thoughts' attd 'Brief
Remarks' to distribute in Russ on our journey. In speaking of our
Scripture Lessons, she smiled, and strongly advised patience, observing
that every thing went forward very slowly here. She said, in reference
to the schools, that I must not leave them until I had set them going,
or if I did, I must come back again.
First Month 31st  We went in sledges to meeting, where I thought
we had a comfortable time. Dear Stephen spoke acceptably in ministry,
and I afterwards accompanied him to visit a family, where, in a very
kind and tender way, he dealt plainly with fhe poor man, warning him
of his great danger; my heart went with what was said. Stephen staid
to dine at D. Wheeler's, and I returned with J. D. Lewis in his sledge.
Soon after I came in, Lord Cathcart sent me a parcel from Lord
Strangford, containing Enoch Jacobson's account of his journey home
from Stockholm to Christiania, also some statements from Phillipsen
about the poor, &c„ at Stockholm, and a kind note from Lord S. in
which he says, < It gives me sincere pleasure to inform you that the
stimulus afforded by your visit here has not yet subsided, and that the
King, in particular, has manifested the most praiseworthy disposition
to profit by, the hints which your practical experience in all good works
enables you to supply.' After this, a note arrived from Papof, stating
that Prince A. Galitzin wished to converse with us to-morrow morning,
on subjects ' near our hearts.' Stephen and S. Stansfield came back
in the afternoon, and in the evening we sat down to hold our meeting,
which was a precious time. My mind has felt comfortably anchored

344 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
and supported all day. Enoch was favoured to get safely home, and it
seems had a little service to perform by the way.
Second Month 1st. — After breakfast we went to Prince A. Galitzin,
where we met Papof, and had, as usual, about two hours' conversation.
He says that the Emperor is desirons to see us, and regrets that cir
cumstances have hitherto prevented his being able to appoint an inter
view. The Prince again related some anecdotes to us, which, as usual,
were very interesting. Several children, at a school somewhere in the
interior, were so impressed with sentiments of piety, that they would
retire to the fields and pray in little companies. One child had a
remarkable dream, in which he thought the Almighty spoke to him and
gave him a message to his parents, and commanded him also to speak
to others. His parents were much affected, and began to read religious
books, but the priest hearing of it, persecuted the family, and sent them
prisoners to Petersburg, just at the time of harvest. This would, in all,
probability, have proved their ruin,, had not the Prince providentially
heard of the circumstance, and though the Emperor was absent, kindly
interfered on their behalf. We made several other calls, and amongst
the rest upon Lord Cathcart, who kindly offered to give us letters to
the British Minister at Constantinople. He pressed us to appoint a day
to dine with him, and seventh-day was fixed upon. In the evening
Baron Wylie and J. D. Lewis came in. The Baron talked a good
deal, and told us of the battles at which he had been present ; the
horrors of war almost exceed imagination, and the recital of what he
had been eye-witness to at Wilna, &c, &c, was exceedingly trying to
the feelings.
Second Month 2nd. — I began to copy out my notes about the prisons
at Abo, Helsingfors, &c, for Prince Galitzin. About one o'clock W.
V. went with us to the Bible house, where we took up Dr. Paterson
and went to dine with Senator Hablitz, who gave us a cordial welcome,
and introduced us to several of his friends. We had very agreeable
conversation, though I do not like to be obliged to talk French.
3rd. — Scherer, the Professor of Chemistry, called with an introduc
tion from Baron Wylie. S. S. and I went in a sledge to D. Wheeler's
with some chemical tests, to try the nature of the soil. I showed them
how to make oxalic acid, &c, &c.
4th — Some inward comfort at meeting this morning. We feel the
value of internal support when every outward prop is removed. Dined
at D. W.'s as usual. R. B. has made me a nice travelling cap, with
contrivances to defend the ears from the cold. The wind rose very high,
and there was a violent snow storm. The family kindly wished to keep
us, but we preferred returning to our lodgings. I never was out in
such weather before. ^~
5th. — Sir James Wylie took us, this morning, to see the great mili-

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 345
tary hospital and academy, on the other side of the river, near the fort;
it is a very extensive range of buildings, and the present number of
patients is one thousand, eight hundred, and ninety-five. There are
about seven hundred in the marine hospital, just by, which we did not
see. The apartments, in the large hospital, are spacious ; every thing
is exceedingly clean, and so well arranged, that great credit is due to
Sir James. The Emperor supports him with his authority, and the
whole empire has benefited by the attention paid to the medical staff
of the army. When patients are admitted here, they are taken to
rooms appropriated for the purpose, where they take off their own
clothes, which are baked or fumigated, and put by ; the patients are
then put into a bath and thoroughly cleansed, after which they have
the hospital dress put on, and are taken to their wards. We went to
the academywhere the medical pupils are boarded and lodged — we
saw three hundred and thirty at dinner. When these young men are
educated they are sent to different parts of Russia, and thus a supply
of well qualified medical men is kept up. Here, I think very properly,
each pupil is taught the practice of medicine as well as surgery, so that
he unites in his own person, the qualifications of physician and surgeon.
We dined at John Venning's, where we met the Swedish Charge
d' Affaires, Biandel; I had much conversation with him, which was
very important.''
In writing to his friend, W. H. Pepys, from Petersburg, William
Allen says —
" I was exceedingly gratified by thy kind letter, giving an account
of the meeting of the Geological Society, &c, and informing me that
I am not quite forgotten by my scientific friends. Tell any of them
who may inquire after me, that I feel this temporary separation so far
from weakening the ties of friendship, that as you all pass, in review,
before my mind, you seem dearer to me than ever. It is pleasing to
cherish the idea of those for whom we have once felt a,well-founded
esteem. Pray remember me particularly to Davy ; I shall never forget
the pleasure we felt in attending, his first lecture, at the Royal Institu
tion, and in forming an acquaintance with him, which very soon became
a settled friendship.
What an awful lesson we have had in the death of that great man,
Sir Samuel Romilly ! Let us redouble our prayers to be kept in a state
of humble dependence upon that great and good Being, who has made
us what we are,— who has commanded us to seek his face, and to put
our trust in Him. He sees all our affliction and distress ; and if we
come unto him in faith, in the -simplicity of little children, desiring
sincerely to do and to suffer all .Ais will, He will never forsake us, but
the Spirit of Jesus Christ will, as the Scripture expresses it, ' bear
witness with our spirits, that we are the children of God;' and if we

346 LD7E AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
are his in time and in eternity, what ean we wish for more ? The
greatest tribulation which we can suffer here, even if continued through
a long life, will sink into nothing, compared with the joys of eternity.
With regard to Blackburn's attack upon us, in the Monthly Magazine,
on account of J. Lancaster, it does not .surprise me at all. I have not
yet seen the article, but I question, much, whether those zealous
advocates for him, would ever have taken half the pains to save the
man, and to procure for him all the credit of the work, which his
disinterested, though traduced and ill-requited friends have done. It
was Lancaster's misconduct, alone, that forced us into notice, otherwise
every thing, to this day, would have continued to be done in his name;
even the final separation, we can prove, was his own act and deed.
I rejoice at the continued exertions which are making in England,
for a reform in the state of our prisons. In their present situation most
of them are a national disgrace, but I do hope that party spirit will be
kept out of this great question. I know the prudence of the leading
members of our committee, as Hoare, Buxton, Crawford, and Bedford,
and have no doubt, but they will be upon their guard against any
turbulent and disaffected characters, who would wish' to mix themselves
up with this great cause. I am glad that, at Stockholm, they are quite
alive to the subject, and we have put it before the government there,
in a strong point of view. The King appears to have the best interests
of the people deeply at heart, and to be a truly liberal character.
In this country the subject is closely under the notice of the benevo
lent Alexander, and I feel assured that every thing consistent with
propriety, will; at all times, readily be done by him for the relief of
suffering humanity.
What a country Norway is for a geologist ! it seems to be made of
rocks, which rise from three hundred to five hundred feet, and follow
each other, in uninterrupted succession, like waves of the sea, in the
whole course, from Stavanger to Christiania. There are granites of
all sorts, including gneiss, and by the coast, huge masses of solid
felspar, with very little mixture of any thing else ; we have seen whole
rocks of milk white quartz. John Julien, of Abo, gave me a specimen
of the new alkali, lithia, which he made himself; it was first detected
in the Petalite, and afterwards found more abundantly in the Spodu-
mene ; both minerals occur in the mine, Uto, in Sweden, in the province
of Sudermania.
The road from Abo to Petersburg is, on the whole, good, and very
frequently runs through extensive forests of pine and birch ; and for
more than a hundred miles together, huge single blocks of red granite
are scattered about on each side of the road. The wonder is, how they
could have come there, for the country is almost a dead level, and
some of them are as large as a small house. I soon began to remark

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 347
that, in many of these blocks, there was a tendency towards a regular
geometrical figure, and this was abundantly confirmed as we proceeded;
a number of these consisted of a prism, terminated by a pyramid, and
on orte of the pyramids I distinctly made out six faces — many of these
rocks are decomposing fast.
Petersburg is, really, a fine city, though all the country is a universal
flat ; and they are obliged to drive piles for the foundations of the
houses. The Neva is nearly as broad as the Thames. When the
moon has as much north declination as possible, and sometimes it
reaches twenty-eight degrees, the effect in this latitude (about 60°) is
curious, for it goes the whde round of the heavens, and only disappears
for two or three hours.
As occasion presents, please to remember me very kindly to all our
friends, and particularly to thy wife. May the Almighty bless and
preserve you both, and make you a strength to each other in those things
which are acceptable in his sight."
Second Month 6th. — We went after breakfast to Sir James Wylie,
and he took us first to a large building near the open space by a marble
palace, where the statue of Suwarroff is placed, to see a large school
on the British and Foreign plan, which has only been opened fifteen
days, for the soldiers of the guard. Here the pupils were almost all
young men ; there were two hundred and eleven present ; it was a
beautiful sight, and they seem to have got the plan exactly. They have
a capital set of spelling lessons in Russ, which are hung round the
room. We saw them turn out and form their circles, and I was quite
delighted at the manner in which they went through their exercise.
Little did I think when I endeavoured to impress the importance of the
subject upon the mind of the Emperor, when in London, that the day
would come when I should see the plan in its perfection at Petersburg.
The pleasure I felt was some reward for what I had suffered, in common
with our little band, since the year 1808. The reading lessons are,
however, greatly wanted. A fine young officer has the superintend
ence of the school. We went from hence to see the hospitals for the
guards, cavalry, &c, which, under Sir James Wylie, are conducted
upon the same excellent and enlightened plan as the others. To these
hospitals gardens are attached, where the convalescent patients may
take the air in summer. Here also the men are exceedingly well cared
for — indeed the Emperor is like a father to them. Formerly it was no
unusual thing for an officer to give a man a blow with a baton which
broke his breast bone, but now the Emperor has every soldier who
dies examined, and the cause of his death reported to himself, publicly,
in the presence of his principal officers ; and those physicians of hospitals
who have the smallest proportion of deaths upon a given number, are
rewarded by a gold snuff-box, a ring, or some other mark of distinction.

348 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
About five o'clock we went to dine with Lord Cathcart and his
family ; we were received in the kindest manner, and found Lady
Cathcart, a most benevolent, tender-spirited, and sensible person. We
spent the evening very agreeably, and on taking leave, Lord Cathcart
pressed us to come again. They have three daughters and several
sons. We talked about Bibles, schools, and various other benevolent
objects. Read our chapter, as usual, before going to bed.
Second Month 8th. — Engaged in making extracts from the notes on
prisons. Called on Count Lieven, who consulted us about the pro
jected school of the Philanthropic Society. He explained their situation,
and I am to draw up a sketch for him. Soon after our return, Galakof
came in upon the same subject."
The proposed sketch was accordingly prepared, and, in the intro
ductory remarks, William Allen observes —
" The great object will be to endeavour to train up the pupils in
sound religious principles ; and to irispirethem with sentiments of virtue,
and with universal benevolence towards their fellow creatures; to
develope their faculties, and to form their minds to habits of industry,
order, and subordination.
This object, so unspeakably important to the individuals themselves,
to the country to which they belong, and to mankind at large, cannot be
attained without a judicious selection of instruments, and a rigid
adherence to a well-organized system.
It is essential that the persons engaged in tuition should have a
liberal turn of mind ; that they should unite kindness of manner with
firmness in the discharge of duty ; that they should govern by love,
rather than by fear, and possess that knowledge of human nature,
which would enable them to secure the affection and unlimited confi
dence of their pupils. The greatest cordiality and friendship should
be maintained among all those who have, in any manner, the care and
oversight of the family, and every thing should be strictly guarded
against, which would tend to disturb the general harmony. Care
should be taken that even the domestic servants be such as would set
a good example, each in their respective stations ; all should unite in a
combined effort to model the minds of the pupils upon the grand gene
ral principle. It is not enough to secure order and proper conduct,
during the hours of school and of work, but they should be tenderly
watched over in their recreations."
" In the evening, dear Stephen, Walter Venning, and I, called upon
Dr. Paterson and staid some time with him, talking principally about
the Scripture Lessons. It seems quite important to lose no time in
preparing a supplement to Freame's, to "consist of about twelve lessons
from the four gospels in common Russ, which might be done without

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 349
much delay ; they w7ould be highly useful in the military schools.
We agree to meet to-morrow at Dr. Paferson's, to begin the work."
Whilst William Allen was endeavouring, and not without difficulty,
to promote education in Russia, he had noticed, with much concern,
that some of , the lessons, then in use, were taken from the works of
infidel writers of the French school, and he was very earnest that a
selection from the Holy Scriptures should be substituted for them. It
was a striking feature in his character, that when his mind was once
fully made up as to the rectitude and importance of an object, he
steadily sought to surmount every obstacle which impeded its accom
plishment. His fixed integrity of purpose gave a tone and energy to
his proceedings, which could not fail to produce an effect; and though,
at times, he had been much cast down by repeated checks, given to his
efforts at Petersburg, yet he, again and again, renewed them. On one
occasion, when a benevolent gentleman, resident in that city, was with
them, W. A. says —
" Stephen told him with what pleasure we had seen the school for
soldiers upon that excellent plan. He immediately interrupted him,
saying, ' that detestable plan;' this of course showed what had been
working, and called forth explanation. I endeavoured to appeal to
him, as a friend to the Bible, on the unspeakable importance of promul
gating even the lessons from the gospels among the people of Russia,
and I think we shook him a little, but he has certainly influenced the
minds of both Papof and the Prince against schools. I have strong
hopes, however, that these excellent men will soon see this important
subject in its true point of view, and then I have no doubt they will
give it their hearty support.
Second Month 9th  W. Venning dined with us, and he and I went
afterwards to Dr. Paterson, at the Bible house, where we began a
selection of texts from the four gospels, as a commencement of the
Scripture Lessons. The Committee consisted of Dr. Paterson, his wife,
Swan, W. Venning, and myself.* We made great progress, and I think
I never felt more peace or divine support in any plan or engagement
than I did this evening, so that I told Stephen on my return, that I had
not had such an evening since coming to Petersburg. We broke up
about nine. W. V. and I walked back ; it was a beautiful moon
light night and hard frost, the stars were very brilliant, and the sky a
fine blue.
Second Month 10th  We walked to the palace, to pay a visit to Sir
James Wylie, and spent about an hour with him. He feels the weight
of having the lives of hundreds of thousands of the Emperor's subjects
in his hands, and seems anxious to do all the good in his power.
Hence we went to the Military Governor's, Milorodovitsch ; he received
* S. Grellet and J. Venning afterwards joined them.

350 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
us kindly, and insisted on taking us to see the Countess Potozka, whose
estates lie near Cherson, and the remains of John Howard are buried
near her garden. The Countess expressed much satisfaction at seeing
us ; she seems to be a very sensible person, and we are to send her
some books. On our return, Papof 's courier was waiting at the door
with a letter, informing us that the Emperor desired to See us this
evening, at six o'clock.
In the evening we had the carriage, and went first to our friend
Papof, who kindly sent his courier with us to the palace. We were
shown in at the Emperor's private door, and conducted to the private
stair-case. Here was not the least pomp ; not a single soldier on the
stairs, and the servants had no sword, nor any livery or uniform. The
Emperor was in a small apartment, with a sofa in it, a table and chairs,
— the whole very neat and plain. He was dressed in a blue uniform,
with gold epaulets ; he received us very kindly, and we were soon
sensible of a renewal of those feelings which we had experienced when
with him before. I believe he was quite glad to see us. After we
had conversed a short time, standing, he invited us to sit down. I
sat on the sofa, the Emperor was on a chair just opposite to me, and
Stephen by him ; no one was present but ourselves. He conversed
with us in the openness of friendship, inquired respecting what we had
seen since our arrival, &c, and seemed to retain a lively impression of
our interview in London, and of the meeting for worship, which he
attended when Count Lieven took me off so unexpectedly to show
them the way. We had a most satisfactory opportunity together, in
which we were renewedly convinced that the Emperor was favoured
with clear views respecting the only sure foundation, and that he was
sensible of something of that divine fellowship which the sincere in
heart are often permitted to experience. He loves vital religion.
With regard to the works on which Daniel Wheeler is employed, he
told us that it was not alone for the" sake of having his land drained
and cultivated, that he formed that establishment, but in order fo bring
over some persons of our principles to settle there. We told him of
our further prospects, and he said we should be pleased with some of
the people in the South, but he expressed a tender concern and sympathy
for us, on hearing that we thought we might go to Constantinople. On
dear Stephen telling him of the way, in which he had been led in this
journey, and that although in other countries he had felt it his duty to
have public meetings, at some of which a large number of persons were
present, yet now he felt that the service lay more in conversation and
private religious intercourse with individuals, the Emperor beautifully
remarked, that if we attended to the impulse of the Holy Spirit, He
would keep us out of every thing which might be improper or hurtful
in its consequences, and would support us in the performance of our

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 351
duty, whatever that might be. He asked Stephen if he were not an
ecclesiastic, and finding that he was a minister, he inquired if I were
one also. Stephen explained to him our views of gospel ministry, in
forming him that our ministers supported themselves by their industry
in their outward calling. We then spoke on the state of the hospitals,
and expressed our satisfaction at the judicious arrangements of Sir James
Wylie, in the medical department, for the soldiers. We mentioned
the state of the poor, and the pleasure we had felt in visiting the two
schools for the soldiers upon our plan, but we urged the necessity of
an immediate attention to the reading lessons, forcibly stating the ex
cellent opportunity which the school plan afforded for the introduction
of lessons from the Holy Scriptures. At this he was quite animated,
and said that was the very wish of his heart, and that he was taking
steps to get the Scriptures read, instead of sermons and other things of
mere human invention. We told him that we had already been at
work upon a selection of gospel lessons for schools, to consist solely of
extracts from the Holy Scriptures. With this he seemed much pleased,
and wished to have them ; but we begged leave to be permitted to
transmit them to him through our friends, Papof and the Prince Alexander
Galitzin, to which he assented, expressing the comfort and satisfaction
he felt in having some persons about him who had vital religion at
heart. We talked farther on the school plan, and were convinced that
whatever obstacles it might meet with from other quarters, there were
none with the Emperor.
He inquired of us about prisons, and we could but express our sen
timents, fully, upon the present system here, and in our own country.
When I began to speak upon this subject, he leaned over to me and
looked at me with fixed attention. I said that the general state of
prisons was too much alike in all countries ; that mankind had, for
ages, been going on upon a system, which seemed to have vengeance
for its object, rather than reform — they went upon the principle of
retaliation. Society had suffered an injury from the criminal, and
therefore it seemed to be thought right to make the criminal suffer, and
that, by taking signal vengeance on him, others might be deterred.
Now, as it was pretty generally acknowledged, that this plan had
universally failed, it was high time to try another, more consonant with
the spirit of the Christian religion, more rational, and better adapted to
human nature. We then described E. J. Fry's exertions at Newgate,
and the success which appeared to have attended them ; we adverted
to what Walter Venning had been doing upon that subject here, but
forbore to press any thing, as the Emperor already had the statement :
the matter seemed to be near his heart. I expressed my firm convic
tion that what the Emperor did in his dominions, would react powerfully
upon England, and facilitate, that reform in our prisons, which the

352 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 181 J.
friends of humanity were so anxious to promote. : We told him that
we had visited all the prisons, schools, &c, in our way from Abo, and
he was very desirous to have our remarks. I accordingly promised
him extracts from my notes, which he said I might send immediately
to him ; but here, as, before, we begged to be permitted to send them
through Papof and the Prince.
After some farther conversation, the Emperor ' desired that we might
have a little pause for mental retirement and inward prayer, and we
had a short but solemn time of silence. Dear Stephen, at length,
kneeled down, and was sweetly engaged in supplication ; the Emperor
also knelt, and I thought divine goodness was near us. Soon after this
we took our leave, and he shook hands with us most affectionately.
As we were retiring, he turned to me and particularly requested that,
in the course of our journey, I would send him, freely, any remarks
that might occur upon what we saw, which I promised to do. We.
were, in the whole, about two hours with him, and left him at eight
o'clock. We heard, afterwards, that he drove off immediately to the
Princess Mestchersky, we having told him that she had a copy of the
Scripture Lessons, used in our schools in England.
Independence of character, and a determination to see and judge for
himself, mark the mind of the Emperor, and display real dignity.
We returned to our lodgings, deeply thankful for the inward support
we had felt upon this interesting occasion, and for the evidence that
the mind of the Emperor continued to be under the same precious
religious feelings as formerly ; but he occupies an arduous post, and
is surrounded with many difficulties — may he still be graciously pre
served!"

CHAPTER XII.
1819. — Various Engagements — Interview with the Empress Mother — Letter to Joseph
Foster — Second Interview with the Emperor — Interview with the Empress Elizabeth —
Taking Leave — Departure from Petersburg — Arrival at Novogorod — Tver — Efforts to
promote benevolent exertions — Arrival at Moscow — Visits to different persons — To
Prisons and other Institutions — Report to the Emperor — To the Empress Mother — Visit
to Alexander Rodgers — Letter to Count Romanzof— Taking leave at Moscow.
" Second Month 11th, 1819. — We went to meeting as usualat Daniel
Wheeler's. Called on the Princess Mestchersky, who is poorly and
seems low ; she intends going to Tver in a few days, and appointed
seventh-day morning for us to go and spend a little . time with her.
We dined with the Minister of the Interior, Karad.avellof, who had
invited a party of our friends, and we met Papof, D'Junkovsky, Daniel
Wheeler, &c, &c. I had a little conversation with Papof before dinner,
and gave him my notes on the journey from Abo to Wyborg to be

1819- OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 353
transmitted through the Prince to the Emperor. This was a very
sociable party, and we had a great deal of free conversation. We were
treated with the. most marked respect, and I had to hand the Princess
Troobetskoy into the dining room ; such conspicuous positions are often
very trying to me, but I endeavour to put the very best face upon
the matter, and must acknowledge that hitherto I have been favoured
to acquit myself upon all trying occasions in a manner which has
afforded peace in the retrospect. We went to Dr. Paterson's in the
evening, and worked at the Lessons till late.
Second Month 13th. — Engaged after breakfast in putting in the heads
to the Lessons: it is a longer job than one would imagine. About ten
o'clock we went to the Smolney Monastery to visit the institution for
seven hundred girls, under the care of the Empress Dowager. We
were met by the directress, who'received us with the same kindness as
before, and took us through the spacious rooms in which the different
classes are taught ; we saw several of them examined in geography,
grammar, natural philosophy, and geometry. One of the elder girls
came forward and resolved a problem upon a large black board. They
generally appeared to answer very readily. They are taught drawing
in chalk, and we saw many beautiful specimens in different rooms ;
they likewise learn music and singing, as part of what are called polite
accomplishments, but our conductress told us that, in addition to em
broidery and the finest works of the needle, they are taught to make
their own clothes ; they learn also the Russian, French, and German
languages. We were much pleased to hear of the attention which is
paid to the subject of religious instruction ; the liberal plan upon which
it is conducted does honour'to the Empress Mother and to the country.
Though the Greek church is the national religion, yet the children of
Roman Catholics and Lutherans are not only received, but apartments
are appropriated in the Monastery to their different forms of worship,
and the children are instructed in the religion of their parents by their
own clergy. We saw them all assembled for dinner, when some of
them repeated a prayer, bowing and crossing themselves rapidly in the
usual way ; after this they sang a hymn beautifully. They looked as if
they were well cared for, and had altogether a healthy appearance.
On returning to our lodgings we put up as many of the Scripture
Lessons as were finished, and took them to Papof. We had a most
satisfactory conversation with him, in which his heart seemed quite
open, and we were truly glad we went. He is delighted with the
Lessons. 14th. — The Empress Mother having appointed us to be at the palace
at one o'clock, we accordingly went, and found everything in the
same state and grandeur, as before. We met with nothing, however,
but what was very respectful. We were soon conducted by the Em-
VOL. I. 23

354 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
press's secretary to a very large apartment, at the further end of which
the Empress was standing alone, but there was a door open into a room
beyond, where several ladies were just getting a peep at us. She is a
tall fine figure ; there is something very graceful and dignified in her
manner, and one sees immediately, from her countenance, that she is
a very clever woman. She advanced towards us with much benevo
lence and kindness, said several handsome things to us, and how glad
she was to have an opportunity of seeing us. She had been informed
of our visits to the institutions under her care, and asked many ques
tions, remarking, that it was her anxious wish to make them as perfect
as possible, and that she should be glad of any suggestions from us ;
she added, that if it had not been for the affliction which had so recently
befallen her, in the death of her daughter, the Queen of Wurtemberg,
she would have shown them to us herself. As she thus introduced"
the subject of her loss, it afforded the opportunity for a little religious
conversation. She stood during the whole of the interview, and her
secretary was present all the time. We could but highly commend the
care of the Empress in providing for the education of so many hundred
young females, and took that occasion to represent the neglected state
of the poorest class of girls. I told her of what was doing in England,
and promised to send her a manual . through Count Lieven, with which
she seemed much pleased, and I endeavoured to explain somewhat of
the plan, upon a little sketch which I had made of a school room for
four hundred ; when I afterwards held out my hand for it, she smiled,
and said she would keep it. The Empress wished us to see her other
institutions, and particularly that for orphans, called St. Mary's. She
desired us to communicate with her at any time on what might occur
in the course of our journey, and offered to give us introductions to her
institutions at Moscow. After a highly satisfactory interview of about
an hour, we took our leave, and at parting I felt it on my mind to say
in French, ' May the Lord bless the Empress and the pious works of
her hands,' which was exceedingly well received. We returned to
our lodgings, thankful that this interesting and important interview was
so well got through, and we must continue the grateful acknowledg
ment that the way is still marvellously opened before us, though accom
panied with close and deep conflicts.
We sent off the last of the gospel lessons to Papof. We have sweetly
felt, while employed in this work, that we were performing a great duty,
—the consequences of it here are quite incalculable. The school plan
will go through Russia, and upon our system.
After tea, dear Stephen and I sat down together and had a precious
season of religious retirement. My petitions were mentally put up to
the Lord that he would be pleased to look down upon his two poor
solitary servants, wandering over the face of his earth, and my mind

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 355
was so filled with divine good that I was ready to say, ' It is enough.'
We were sweetly refreshed together.
Second Month 15th. — We called in upon Pesarovius, ahd had much
religious and satisfactory conversation with him and his wife.
16th. — We went, by appointment, to Prince Alexander Galitzin, and
found Papof with him. They had the Gospel Lessons before them, and
were highly delighted with them. The Prince said that if we had done
nothing but this at Petersburg, it was well worth while to have come.
We ail agreed upon the few verses from the Acts which Papof proposed
to finish with, and I quite think it will be an improvement ; they are
both heartily with us upon this ground, and the Prince is eager to lay
the Lessons immediately before the Emperor. There was a full and
free flow of christian fellowship while we were together. The Prince
says that the Emperor was much pleased with the interview we had
with him, and intends to see us again.
Hence we went to an establishment for orphans, called St. Mary's ;
it is maintained entirely at the expense of the Empress Dowager, and
is for those children whose parents are artisans, &c. They look healthy
and very neat and clean. They are taught reading, writing, &c, also
the French and German languages, useful kinds of needle-work, em
broidery, and drawing; they likewise learn to knit, and great pains
are taken to find suitable situations for them when they are of an age
to leave the institution, on which they receive one hundred roubles and
a complete set of clothing. The rise at six o'clock all the year round,
and besides having prayers, read every evening in the Scriptures. The
whole place was exceedingly neat. There is no difficulty in procuring
places for the girls educated here. If some of our English ladies would
imitate this illustrious example, how much purer pleasure would they
receive than from routs and balls. ,
Second Month 11th. — I received a letter from my dear child, which
brought an account of the decease of dear Mary Hoare. The poor of
Stoke Newington will have suffered a great loss in her, as well as the
cause of the education of the poor generally. It calls forth thankfulness
that her mind was preserved in calmness ; she departed in peace on the
morning of the twenty-first of first month. I had rejoiced in believing
that the dear Master was drawing her nearer to himself before I knew
of her indisposition, and am truly thankful that I paid her a visit before
I left home. The feelings that I had upon that occasion are still fresh
in my mind, and a source of comfort, though I was not at all aware of
what was impending. My sympathy is excited for her near relatives ;
may this dispensation of Him who doeth all things well, be blessed to
them, as it assuredly will if it tends to fix their minds on the only
Source of good. 0, how little are all the pleasures and honours of the
world compared with the presence of the Redeemer and Comforter,

356 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
when the Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the
children of God.
18th. — We went to meeting at D. Wheeler's this morning, and
drove most part of the way upon the Neva, where they are fitting up
ice mounds and building a little wooden town upon the, river. At
meeting my mind was calmed and peaceful.
We dined at John Venning's, where we met Papof, Count Lieven,
and Dr. Paterson ; there was no other company, and we had a very
satisfactory visit. We went fairly into the business of schools and of
the Lessons ; with the latter they are all delighted, and we have almost,
if not quite, convinced the Count of the vast importance of establishing
schools for the poor. We wish to have them all under the care of
Prince A. Galitzin, Papof, and Count Lieven, because we know they
have the cause of Christianity deeply at heart.
Second Month 20th. — After breakfast, went to Dr. Paterson's, and
began the section of School Lessons, 'Duties to God and Man.'
22nd.— Went to the Bible House, where we met Papof, and found
that the Emperor had approved the Lessons, and ordered eight thousand
roubles to be devoted to the printing instead of seven thousand, the
estimate given in by Paterson. Thus is this great work sealed.
Worked till past three, and again at our lodgings till between one and
two o'clock in the morning."
In a letter to his dear friend Joseph Foster, written shortly after this
period, William Allen mentions the progress of the school plan, but
adds —
"It has many enemies — some persons totally object to all attempts
to diffuse light and knowledge among the mass of the people, others are
only afraid of the consequences, as it might affect those who owned
peasants, and some pious and valuable persons hesitated, lest the poor,
in acquiring the faculty of reading, should employ it to a bad purpose.
What I have suffered in endeavouring to convince some of this class,
I think I shall never forget, but at length I believe it was providen
tially put into my mind to set about a revision of Freame's Scripture
Lessons, so as to adapt them to the present state of Russia. I soon
saw, however, that something must be done upon quite a different
plan, and that the questions must be left out altogether. I consulted
Dr. Paterson, who heartily entered into my views ; we had a meeting
at the Bible House, and concluded to begin the business immediately.
This memorable committee, at least it will be so to us, consisted of S.
Grellet, Dr. Paterson, Walter Venning, and his brother John, W. Swan,
and me. We literally worked at it night and day, so that in rather more
than two weeks we had it all ready to lay before the Emperor, who
was so delighted with it, that he immediately ordered eight thousand
roubles to be paid for the cost of one edition. This measure has

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 357
opened the way for the spread of the schools every where. I have
got two copies of the modern Greek Testament in order to form a set
of Lessons for the Grecian Islands, if way should open for it. I do
not know whether the whole Bible is translated into modern Greek. I
wish thou wouldst call on Dr. Steinkopff, give my dear love to him,
and tell him what we have been doing ; the friends of the Bible cause
here say, that never since the institution of the Bible Society has any
thing taken place more likely to promote their great work'. I wish our
committee was rich enough to print the Lessons in all the languages of
the Continent. We have received a kind message through the Danish
Ambassador, from the Queen of Denmark, acknowledging the receipt
of our letter,"and informing us that they were now engaged in promot
ing schools upon our plan, wherever it was practicable."
" Second Month 25th. — We went to Count Lieven's to tea, to meet
the Baron de Stackleberg, and were exceedingly glad to become
acquainted with this excellent man. During two years hewas engaged
in travelling on foot, visiting pious persons in Switzerland and Germany,
and lodging at their houses for some weeks at a time ; he resides at
Revel in Esthonia, and is to return home to-morrow. He related an
interesting anecdote of a young person who came under his notice
several years since. Before his views became decidedly religious, he
wished to see a beginning made towards the emancipation of the
peasants ; with these feelings he placed one of his own peasants under
the care of a schoolmaster, with directions that if the young man's
conduct appeared to deserve it, he should have his freedom af the age
of twenty-five. This proved to be the case, and the proposed boon
was granted ; on returning from his journey the Baron found that the
young man had not only prospered in his outward concerns, but had
become a really serious character. He is now the confidential friend
of his former master, and assists him in all his pious and benevolent
undertakings. The Baron gives a very good account of the disposition
of the peasants in his own neighbourhood. After he had become
serious, he proposed to them that if, instead of spending the first-day
afternoon in drinking and in amusement, they would come to him, he
would read to them in the Holy Scriptures. This proposition was
gladly accepted, and his congregation soon filled two rooms in his
house, and increased so that he was obliged to remove the place of
meeting to a large stable. The people came from all quarters, and
some of them from twenty versts distance. This good man was miich
struck with the want of education among the people. He and three or
four persons of like sentiments to his own, have united in raising a sub
scription to build a school room, and have formed an establishment for
training masters.
Second Month 26th, — Baron Stackleberg came in, and I gave him

358 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
the ' Thoughts,' the ' Brief Remarks,' and several tracts. We had
some interesting conversation and parted in much christian affection.
W. Swan sent us the rest of the Lessons, and we put in the heads.
This great work is now completed, and we took it ourselves to Papof 's
house. 28th. — This is the last day of their carnival, and great crowds of
people are on the ice-mounds, where they are gliding down in sledges,
and all sorts of amusements are going forward.
Third Month 1st. — Stephen and I went to Papof 's, by appointment,
and had a very agreeable conference with him. He says that the last
set of the Lessons is sanctioned, and sent to the Metropolitan to be
translated under his superintendence, as the text from the Old Testament
does not yet exist in the common Russ. The Emperor has commanded
it to be done without loss of time. We urged the printing of the Gospel
Lessons also without delay.
Papof says that the extracts from my journal about Finland have been
laid before the Emperor. We find also that they have something in
agitation on the subject of schools, but he did not say what. It is,
however, clear to me, that it is of the utmost consequence to encourage
free societies of individuals, who will act disinterestedly, and from
motives of pure benevolence; they should be bound to report, at- fixed
times, the amount of subscriptions received, the manner in which they
have been applied, and the good done."
William Allen prepared a paper, which was forwarded to the Emperor,
" On the Advantages likely to result from the Union of Individuals in
Works of Pure Benevolence." The sound and comprehensive views
expressed in it met with a ready reception. In alluding to the benefits
of education and scriptural instruction, he says —
" When it is considered what a powerful and beneficial influence
the higher and middle ranks of society may exert, in forming the minds
and characters of the poorest class of the community to morality and
virtue, the subject assumes a high degree of importance. We all
know the power of early impressions, and the association of ideas. Let
these be universally made in favour of religion; let the poor be trained
to habits of order, of subordination, of respect for their superiors, of
reverence for their Government; let them be taught that it is their duty
to exercise benevolence to their fellow creatures, to observe decency
in their manners, and cleanliness in their persons, they will then rise in
the scale of physical and intellectual power, and a Government pos
sessing such a population will become doubly strong.
One of the most painful duties of Government is the coercion of the
vicious, but an attention to the moral and religious education of the
poor, would go far towards the prevention of crime. It would not
only lessen the care of the rulers in this respect, hut it would obviate

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 359
the necessity 'of many of those charitable institutions now kept up at so
great an expense, for the reception of those whom society had too long
neglected, and who, at last, became a permanent burden upon it."
" Third Month 2nd. — We went again to see the military schools,
where we met Count Severs and Dr. Paterson. At the great school
for the guards there were two hundred and fifty present, and they con
tinue to make rapid progress. The order maintained in it is beautiful.
I find that the Lessons which were here, have been revised by the
censor, and most of them taken away. Thus it appears that the hint
which I gave on our first visit, was immediately attended to, and that
our coming to Petersburg was just in the right time to have the Lessons
from the Holy Scriptures substituted throughout this vast empire, in
the place of those from the French writers. Surely this looks like
something providential, and ought to be a comfort to us.
I called at Sir James Wylie's, where I was informed, that the even
ing before, I had been elected an honorary member of the Imperial
Academy of Sciences.
Third Month 4th. — Went to Dr. Paterson, and consulted him about
a kabitka, &c. He strongly adviseS us to visit the Island of Scio, as
there is a considerable number of very interesting persons there. I
spent aboufan hour with him and his amiable wife.
5th  We went to see Senator Hablitz, and, as usual, met with a
cordial reception, though it was accompanied with a gentle rebuke for
not having called sooner. He seems very much to regret our departure
before we see a committee formed for the schools, but we explained to
him how we were situated, and gave our opinion as to the present
state of this affair. We took leave of this excellent man, who seemed
affected at parting with us, and embraced us warmly. We then went
to the kabitka market, and purchased one. John Sobieski is engaged
for us as a servant.
6th. — We had an interesting parting visit to Count Lieven, who is
going to Dorpat. He was very tender and affectionate. In the even
ing I Wrote a letter to James Heard, the young man educated as a
schoolmaster for the peasants on Count Romanzof's estate ; then went
to Paul Pesarovius, and spent an hour or two with him and his wife in
religious conversation. Stephen opened the subject of prayer to them
very clearly.
1th. — We received a note from Papof, stating that the Emperor
desired to see us, and requesting that we would not depart until the
interview had taken place. W. Venning came in, full of hopes that
the prison and school plans will both be adopted.
8th. — We called upon a number of persons to-day, and began the
business of taking leave. We had much interesting conversation with
the military governor, Milorodovitch. He enters warmly into the

360 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
prison plan. We then called on the - minister of the interior, Karada-
velof. He is to give us a letter addressed to the postmasters, whiGh
will prevent our being stopped for want of horses. We shall also be
furnished by the Government with letters of recommendation to all the
governors of provinces, &c, on our way.
9th. — We set off between eight and nine ,to Prince Alexander
Galitzin's : — met Papof there, as usual. I find that when the extract
from my journal was laid before the Emperor, he was particularly
struck with the little representation of the man with the bell over his
head. The information Papof gave me on this subject was very
pleasant. He says that the Emperor has issued orders which will
rectify several of these things. The Prince expressed regret at our
determination to go so soon, and wished us to stay till spring, as there
was much good to be done ; he told us the Emperor had been talking
to him about it, and he desired us to seek by prayer to know whether
it was indeed right for us to go. Papof joined him in pressing it. We
explained to them that we believed the time was now come for us to
proceed, and they therefore ceased. We went to the Nevski Monas
tery to take leave of the Metropolitan and Philaret. The former was
out, but we met with Philaret. We found that he had received the
Scripture Lessons which we had prepared, and was arranging them in
Russ. He expressed how thankful he felt that we had been sent here
to put them on that good work, and he proposed that after the Lessons
were printed, an edition in the form of a little pamphlet should be pub
lished, for the use of schools, on the common plan, and for distribution
throughout Russia. On taking leave of us, he said that this was
probably the last time we should see each other in this world, but he
gaye us his parting benediction, and trusted the Lord would bless his
own work in our hands.
Third Month 10th. — We went to Venning's and met the military
governor, Milorodovitch. He brought with him Lieutenant-General
Count de Witt, son of the Countess Potozka. This is an interesting
young man, and he gave us valuable information : he is stationed near
Odessa, and has the command of a great number of troops in the
neighbourhood of his vast estates. He says that our school plan is
fully established among the soldiers there, and that ten thousand are
under tuition. He gives us a pressing invitation to visit him when we
go to Odessa.
We went to Count Romanzof 's to dinner, and met with Captain
Kreungestein, who made the voyage round the world. We also met
with the author of the History of Russia, Karamsin, with the president
of the Society of Arts, Alexis Olenin. The Count said he was much
pleased with the ' Thoughts' and < Brief Remarks,' and that he had
found much * unction' in them.

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 361
Third Month 11th. — I see that the cause of education still meets
with opposition from some quarters, and amongst different classes, but
there are enlarged minds who can take a comprehensive view of things,
and who are convinced, that in the dispensations of Divine Providence,
knowledge is the means of extending civilization, and that the great
truths contained in the Holy Scriptures, can only be generally diffused
among the people, by teaching them to read. The Emperor, we are
informed, is among this number, and his actions show it. The weather
is very cold, but the sky is quite clear. I noticed, to-day, an appear
ance which I have never seen in England : in the sunbeams were in
numerable little sparkling particles, arising, probably, from the water
deposited by the air, being, in this intense cold, immediately formed into
minute spiculse of ice. We went to the great public library, where we
met, by appointment, Alexis Olenin, president of the Society of Arts. We
saw the fragment of a MS. of part of Paul's Epistle to the Galations,
supposed to be of the third century ; it was on a small sheet of parch
ment, the upper edge was partly decayed, and looked as if it had been
burnt. The letters were in the very old Greek character, and very
large. The parchment was eaten through in many places, just where
the ink had been. There were other manuscripts of the fourth and
fifth century, all on vellum. We noticed in the oldest of them, that
the pages were divided into two columns, and there was sometimes not
more than a word or two in a line, as they never divided a word. The
theological department contains about forty thousand volumes. They
have comparatively few English works of this class. We dined at Dr.
Paterson's, and met J. and W. Venning, and W. Swan. In the evening
we had a great deal of religious conversation. The part which Swan
took in it endeared him farther to us. In the evening we called upon
Dr. Pinkerton's wife and family.
13th. — Lord Cathcart advised me, in case of accident, to be provided
with a document from him, which he will order to be made out.
14th. — We went over to Daniel Wheeler's, after breakfast, and had
a satisfactory meeting, in which dear Stephen spoke in ministry, and
was also engaged in prayer. We staid till the afternoon, and took an
affectionate leave of the family. Papof had kindly sent a note to us in
the morning, to inform us that the. Emperor would see us at eight
o'clock this evening, and requesting us to call upon him at seven. He
said he had sent us notice before we went, to meeting, in order to « set
our minds at liberty.' This is just like himself. We accordingly went
to him at the appointed time, when he received us in his usual sweet
manner. He told us that the Prince had mentioned us to the Empress
Elizabeth, the wife of the Emperor, and that she would see us to-morrow
at twelve o'clock. She remarked to the Prince, that as we were diffi
dent, and did not like to push ourselves forward, she thought it right

362 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
to open the way, and said, that as we had been with the Emperor and
her mother, she would also, if we desired it, give us an opportunity of
seeing her. We thankfully accepted this offer, and may humbly say
it is the Lord's doing.
Papof sent his courier with us to the palace, and we were shown
into the same room where we had been before. I could but think, that
from its simplicity, it might be an excellent pattern for many members
of our Society. The Emperor came in with a smiling countenance, and
took us both by the hand at once. He stood talking a few minutes,
and then seated us, as on the former occasion.
My mind was filled with a sense of divine good as we walked up
the stairs, and the canopy of heavenly love was over us all the time.
The conversation went on without restraint, as among familiar friends ;
at first it was general, upon serious subjects, and particularly about our
departure. On his expressing his wish to keep us longer, Stephen
explained the nature of our feelings, stating that if it were our Divine
Master's will that we should go forward, we could not do any good by
staying. The Emperor understood this, and though it was obvious that
he w-ould have Jpeen glad if we had felt at liberty to have remained, yet
he encouraged us to attend to our convictions of duty. The discourse
then turned upon the new set of Lessons, which we had prepared for
the schools on the British system in Russia; he said they were just
what was wanted, that he had been anxious to diffuse light and know
ledge among the people, by the establishment of schools upon our plan,
throughout his army, and he expressed his thankfulness that 'the
Divine Spirit' (those were his words) had sent us here, just at the
critical time, to make this system a grand engine to imprint the great
truths of revealed religion upon the minds of millions. We put in a
word for the poor girls who are universally neglected here, that is, the
very poorest class, and the Emperor said that his mother had told him
what we had said to her upon this subject, that he certainly would
attend to it, and that, yesterday, he had given orders for six schools for
girls to be founded. He expressed his desire to have a school society
established like the Bible Society, but earnestly wished that a member
of our religious society, interested in this subject, as well as in that of
prisons and the Bible cause, would come to reside in Petersburg for
some time, saying, that he would receive such an one with open arms.
I had reason to understand what he meant, but my path is straight
forward. The conversation now turned upon Daniel Wheeler. The
Emperor expressed himself much satisfied with what had been done,
and said that he thought there was a change for the better in the village
of Okta, where Daniel resides, since he had been there. We spoke of
the disposition of lands, and the importance of endeavouring to form a
middle class, so much wanted in Russia. We then had some talk

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 363
about Robert Owen and his plans, which I think was introduced in
consequence of his asking what I thought of the cotton works at
Alexandroski, under the protection of the Empress mother; he seemed
very much interested as I gave him the whole history of Lanark, and
my reasons for having any thing to do with it; and he told me that he
thought I ought not to withdraw. He said he had read a little of Robert
Owen's plans, and soon saw to what they would tend, and that his
opinion of them was precisely the same as our's. I related to him the
circumstances of our last visit to Lanark, and gave him the only copy
I had left of the Reply, also the ' Thoughts' and 'Brief Remarks,' with
which he seemed quite pleased, and put them into his breast pocket.
He now told us how early he had been favoured with the touches of
divine love in his mind, though he did not know from whence they
came, and was surrounded by persons entirely ignorant of these things;
that he remembered crying when he was obliged to repeat forms of
prayer, but that he and his brother Constantine, with whom he slept,
used to pray extempore and had comfort in it ; he said, that, as he
grew up, these tender impressions were very much dissipated, the
Empress Catherine, not being a religious character but a 'Philosophe,'
put him under the care of La Harpe, a very able tutor, but imbued
with French principles, and here he gave us a most interesting history
of himself. It was not till the year 1812 that he had read the Bible,
but as soon as he had read a little, he was eager to read more, and, he
added, ' I devoured it;' he found that it bore witness to what he had
felt before of the operation of the Holy Spirit in his own mind, and he
then knew what it was. The conversation next turned upon peace,
and we understood from what the Emperor said, that one reason for his
keeping so large an army is, that when the peasants who are slaves
become soldiers, and afterwards receive their discharge from the army,
they are free men. He is discharging great numbers, and taking others
in their place, and one great object of establishing schools in the army
is to prepare these men for freedom. We had some conversation on
the importance of every one attending strictly to what was manifested
as a duty to him in particular, and what was positively required of one,
might not be of another, &c. By this time it was getting near ten
o'clock, when the Emperor, said that he wished us to sit a little in
silence as before, for the Great Master had promised to be with the two
and the three. He observed that, even when we were separated, we
might feel one another near in a spiritual union — that space related only
to what was corporeal, not to spirits. This was a solemn moment, the
evidence of the divine overshadowing was clear, strong and indisputa
ble, and the Emperor, I was sure, felt it to be so ; it was like sitting in
heavenly places in Christ Jesus. After some time, Stephen spoke most

364 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
acceptably, and the Emperor, I doubt not, will long remember his
communication. I needed no other evidence than my own feelings to
to be assured that he was much affected. I believed it right for me to
offer up a supplication, but so awful did it appear that I had great
difficulty in giving way ; at last however I rose, turned round, and
knelt down ; the Emperor came to the sofa and knelt down by me,
and now strength was given me beyond what I had ever felt before,
and the precious power accompanied the words. When it was finished
I paused a little, and then rose ; he rose soon afterwards, and we sat
a few minutes in silence, we then prepared to take leave ; the Emperor
was much affected and held us by the hand, — it was a solemn parting ;
he raised my hand to his lips and kissed it. I was now anxious to be
gone, and moved towards the door, and after taking leave of Stephen,
the Emperor went hastily into another room. We returned to our
lodgings with hearts full of divine peace ; we both agreed that this one
interview was worth all that we had suffered in coming here, and all
the sacrifices we have made. It is marvellous to us how, from time to
time, upon all important occasions, we are favoured with wisdom and
strength by our Great Master, just sufficient for the trial, though at other
times we are often greatly depressed ; the work is His, and the praise
is His alone."
In afterwards alluding to this, and the former interview, W. Allen
writes —
" The Lord's presence, which is the crown of all, was richly with us,
so that the unity and fellowship of the spirit in the bond of peace was
felt, not only when conversing upon many subjects of the highest
importance, but above all in the solemn pause which we had at the
close of each of the conferences. The wine of the kingdom flowed from
vessel to vessel, and the power of the Lord was magnified."
" Third Month 15th. — Papof sent his courier with us to the palace.
We found that the Empress had planned to receive us in her private
apartments with her companion, the widow of an English clergyman,
but, by some mistake of the servants we were shown into the state
rooms ; after waiting a short time we were ushered into a large room
where the Empress was standing. There is much mildness in her
countenance, particularly about her eyes ; she received us very respect
fully, and said that from what the Emperor had told her, she wished to
see some of our religious society. We had a good deal of conversation
with her upon serious subjects, which was highly satisfactory. I feel
much for her. After an interview of about three quarters of an hour,
we respectfully withdrew ; there was no one present but ourselves, her
attendants being in waiting in the next room.
We went to dine at John Venning's, where the Prince and Papof

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 365
kindly came to meet us for the last time ; there was no other company
except Dr. Paterson and the Empress's companion. This was a very
sociable, agreeable visit.
Third Month 16th. — We called at the Bible house to take leave of
Dr. Paterson and his wife, and W. Swan. We went thence to Prince
Alexander Galtizin's, where we met him and dear Papof, and had our
final parting opportunity ; we had a great deal of free conversation, with
the openness of christian friends. The Prince told us the steps of his
progress in religion, and how he was brought to see the emptiness of
mere forms, and the inestimable value of vital Christianity. He said the
Emperor and he had been brought up as playfellows together, and were
exposed to the same disadvantages, in being surrounded with irreligious
persons, and he told us that the Emperor took the Bible with him in
the campaign of 1812, and read in it every day, except upon extraordi
nary occasions, and then he read more afterwards. He gave us many
interesting details about the Holy Alliance, and the astonishment of the
Emperor's own court when they heard the decree read. Many con
jectures were formed respecting it, but few were prepared to understand
the Emperor's real design. Before we parted we had a solemn religious
opportunity, in which Stephen was favoured in prayer; I felt much:
we then took a solemn and affectionate leave in the flowings of chris
tian love. It appears that the Greek Bishop Philaret was pleased at
the parting interview which we had with him ; he sent us a kind mes
sage through the Prince or Papof, expressing a desire that He, who
met with the two disciples by the way as they went to Emmaus, might
be with us ; the Metropolitan also sent us a very kind message, regret
ting that he was absent when we called at the Monastery.
We went next to the palace, to take leave of Sir James Wylie, who
has uniformly treated us with the greatest respect, and even affection. He
longed to keep me here, and said every thing to induce me to bring my
daughter over, and settle here for a time, stating how much more good
I might do here than in any other place in the world ; but I still reverted
to matters of duty, and had a little serious conversation with him, which
seemed to' make an impression, and he parted with me with much
tenderness. His secretary told me that my diploma from the Academy
was sent to" our lodgings. We then made some more calls, and having
packed up our things and cleared out of the lodgings, we went to the
Vennings' to dinner. These dear friends are affectionately attached to
us, and have done every thing for us that kindness could, suggest. They
have supplied us with an ample store of provisions, have fitted up
pockets to the side of the kabitka, and have attended to the packing of
it themselves. Daniel Wheeler dined with us — we all felt much at
this being our last interview ; Walter Venning was very low and
silent. Lord Cathcart called, and brought the document, stating that

366 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
I was a British subject ; he also gave us a letter to put us under the
special care of the British Minister at Constantinople, and has mani
fested the greatest kindness towards us ; indeed, every thing that could
be thought of to open our way, has been done. The Prince has
furnished us with letters to all the governors of provinces during the
whole of our route, recommending us as persons well known to the
Emperor ; and the Minister of the Interior has sent us a paper contain
ing an imperative order for horses, in case of any difficulty. Thus our
gracious Master is fulfilling his promise to us, when, in a degree of
faith, we leaned upon his arm to enter upon an untrodden path ; it is
all his doing, for we feel that without him we have no strength. We
retired into the little room, where we have so often enjoyed a social hour,
and after we had taken coffee, and conversed for some time, I felt the
extendings of divine love so strongly towards our host and his family,
that I longed for us to settle down in silence. At length Stephen gave
John Venning a hint, and conversation ceased ; a precious covering
was immediately extended over us, and there was a silence which, I
believe, was felt by all ; I was thankful on every account, that our
blessed Lord condescended, in so signal a manner, to own his poor
servants, now on the eve of their departure. Stephen delivered a pre
cious communication, which deeply affected both John and Walter.
Daniel Wheeler then said a few words. I felt the spirit of supplication,
but was afraid, and longed that I might be permitted to get rid of
my burden some other way, but it would not do; I therefore knelt down,
and was fervently engaged in prayer for these my endeared friend ; I
felt the power of the Holy Spirit accompany the words, and all were
tendered and affected. We then took leave, and put on our schoubs,
which consist of wolf-skins with the fur inwards and cloth without. We
have our luggage stowed in the bottom of the kabitka, as in the hold
of a vessel, and upon it is laid a horse-hair mattress, upon which we
are stretched as in a bed, with pillows under our heads. After wrap
ping our schoubs close about us, we spread our cloaks, &c. over us,
and John Venning had kindly provided a double mat, which we can
let down to keep out the snow and the cold. Dr. Paterson came to
see us off, and the dear Vennings kept with us till the last. We took
an affectionate leave of all, and then set off with three horses ; our man
Sobiesky sits by the driver at the foot of the vehicle. It was about
six o'clock when we started, and in passing through Petersburg I felt
quite peaceful. We are kindly furnished by D'Junkovsky with a list
of all the stations to Catherinslaf, and what we are to pay."
The travellers proceeded through the night, and reached Novogorod
the following evening. The country is described as uniformly flat, and
presenting a very monotonous aspect; it is much covered with pine and-
birch trees ; the bark of the latter is used by the peasants to make shoes,

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 367
and when pealed in lorfg narrow strips it makes the Russian matting.
The inn at Novogorod did not afford beds, and the landlord observed
rather surlily that the Russian lords brought their own bedding ; how
ever, they procured two rooms, and W. Allen says —
" My hed was my wolf-skin ; my mind was peaceful and easy, and I
soon went to sleep."
The governor was absent, but in consequence of the letters of in
troduction, arrangements were made for them to visit the public
institutions, some of which, especially the foundling hospital and the
prison, were in a very unsatisfactory state, and much needed attention.
William Allen says —
" Many of the large houses are in a state of dilapidation, and the
place has a miserable appearance ; there are very few persons of pro
perty, and it seems that the poor are almost wholly neglected.
Third Month 19th. — I have, had a good night, and on waking this
morning my mind was filled with the dear Saviour's peace. O, wonder
ful condescension to such an unworthy creature ! After visiting several
institutions, Theodore Pontschkoff accompanied us to our inn, and we
had some interesting conversation with him. He is a man of much
information, and quite disposed to do all the good he can, but the diffi
culties are immense. We gave him some of the Princess Mestchersky's
Tracts, with which he was much pleased, and I will write to Pesarovius
for more. We encouraged him to form a little tract association, and
subscribed twenty-five roubles as a beginning ; he seems heartily dis
posed to follow it up.
We have had multiplied proof in this country of the baneful effects
of ignorance, and of the mischief which society incurs from a neglect
of the religious education of the poor.
We learn that Novogorod was formerly a place of great trade. It
is seated on a large river, which communicates with Lake Ladoga, and
until the canal was cut to Moscow, goods for that city were sent here ;
perhaps the loss of this channel of commerce, may be one cause of its
present state of decay.
20th — We started from Novogorod about half-past nine o'clock,
with three horses in our kabitka. There are many monasteries in all
directions — the snow is very deep, and the course of the road is shown
by branches of pine stuck in at certain distances. The houses are
universally made of logs, with the roof overhanging several yards, and
the ends pointing towards the road. We passed several miserable
villages." It seems the usual practice in travelling in Russia, to go forward
night and day, only stopping at the stations to change horses, and
occasionally to take some refreshment. The kabitkas, (which are a
kind of sledge,) are prepared with mattresses and leathern pillows, on

368 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
which persons may lie down, but the inequalities in the snoW render
sleep very uncertain. In a letter to his daughter, William Allen thus
describes part of this night's journey : —
"We approach the hills of Waldi, which continue for near thirty
miles ; though not high they are really formidable from the snow and
ice. Notwithstanding our wings on each side, which. gave us a spread
of about four yards, we were nearly overturned two or three times; it
is true we had not far to fall, but if we had been completely turned
over, the weight of our luggage upon us would have squeezed- us a
little. The single horse sledges, which pass in great numbers between
Petersburg and Moscow, are continually deepening a hole when it is
once made. One driver has the care of two or three of these sledges ;
some of the holes were above four feet deep, and we often plumped in
without any warning. I hate since been informed, that it is only
owing to the very extraordinary mildness of this winter that they are
not mucludeeper, and that in the usual winters they are sometimes ten
or twelve feet in depth, so that a kabitka and horses at the bottom of
one of these holes is, for a moment, completely hid from one that is
immediately following. We must therefore consider ourselves as very
well off, though we had not proceeded further than about two versts
from the station before we were completely stuck, and were obliged to
get out ; it was very cold, and the snow, which had been partly melted
by the sun in the day, was so slippery, that what with my mufHings
and my clumsy fur boots, I could scarcely stand, but Sobiesky was
kindly attentive to me ; we all put our shoulders to the kabitka to assist
the horses in getting it out, but we had not proceeded far before we
had the same ceremony to perform over again, and the difficulties were
so much increased that, after going about five versts, we were glad to
creep into our nests, put down the mat, and lie quietly till break of
day, for it would have been dangerous to go on. When it was light
we found that one of our shafts- was broken ; it was tied up, however,
just to enable us to get to a place where another could be procured,
and the whole cost of our repairs, together with a handsome remunera
tion to two peasants, who came a mile and- a half to our assistance,
was not more than about three shillings sterling.
On approaching Tver we saw a very grand monastery, with a number
of domes of deep blue ; the middle dome was covered with golden
stars, and all of them were surmounted with crosses. We entered the
town over a frozen river, and put up at the house of an Italian, but
here again we found they had no beds; they however brought me some
pillows, and as I had been in my clothes for six nights running, I got
out my blanket and sheet, made up a bed of my schoub, and slept
pretty comfortably."
" Third Month 23rd — We walked to the house of the governor, who

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 369
is brother to the Princess Mestchersky ; he was from home, but we
met with the Princess, and were mutually glad to see each other once
more. We had a good deal of conversation, and laid our plans for a
girl's school at Petersburg. She desires me to write immediately for
a school-mistress, and says that she will take her into her own family.
The Princess gives us a very discouraging account of Tver. She sent
for the person to whom Prince Galitzin's letter is addressed, and he
was very civil, and offered to show us every thing. It has been a por
tion of our duty here, as in other places, to visit and enter into feeling
with the afflicted, and with the out-casts of society, by which our spirits
have been much depressed ; our service leads us to dungeons as well
as to palaces, and we feel the force of those words of the apostle,
« We are debtors to all men !' It is a consolation, however, to know
that this trial of our feelings is not in vain, and that our representations
to the proper authorities have proved the means of alleviating much
human misery.
In the afternoon we visited two Archimandrites, who have the charge
of two seminaries for young men training for priests ; we found them
both persons of liberal sentiments ; they asked us some questions as to
the number of sacraments we admitted, which gave us an opportunity
of explaining our views of the spirituality of the gospel dispensation.
There was much mildness in their manners, and they seemed pleased
with the interview.
We spent the evening with the Princess Mestchersky, and were
introduced to her father, who seemed quite pleased to see us. We
had a good deal of religious conversation, which was satisfactory.
Third Month 25th. — Tver is a handsome town upon the Wolga, at
the confluence of three rivers. The houses in the principal streets are
brick, plaistered, though many of them in other parts are of logs.
We went with the Procurator, to the house of his mother-in-law, who
received us very kindly ; there were several of her family and other
persons present, some of whom seem to be interesting characters. We
endeavoured to engage them to form a ladies' committee, but the thing
was quite new to them, and the old lady thought they had enough to
do in their families ; we then asked if they were never in the habit of
relieving cases of human suffering, and being answered in the affirma
tive, we pointed out the advantages, on every account, of acting in
concert, and particularly as it would tend to check imposture and
enable them to do far more good. Stephen then gave them an admi
rable lecture on the subject, and we laid before them, in strong colours,
the deplorable state of the poor dying babes at the foundling. (It
appears that last year two hundred and eighty-three were admitted,
and two hundred and forty-eight died.) The Procurator's wife is a
Vol. I. 24

370 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819
feeling, tender woman, and I saw the matter sank deep with her, as
well as with her sister Olga, who sat next to me. They seemed
resolved to set about the work, but did not know how to begin, and I
told them that I had promised the Princess Mestchersky to send her a
copy of an organized plan, for the formation of a society.
After this very satisfactory visit we went to our inn to pack up, and
in the afternoon started for Moscow, where we arrived the following
day. The inn where we stopped is just opposite the Kremlin."
During his stay in this city, William Allen sketched out the proposed
" Plan," and forwarded it to the Princess. It was headed, " Society
for bettering the condition and improving the morals of the poor at
Tver," and in its details a clear statement was given of the duties to
be performed, and the mode of proceeding with the business. The
leading objects to which the attention of the committee was directed,
were — To relieve cases of peculiar distress ; to visit female prisoners ;
and the institution for foundlings ; to promote schools for poor girls ;
and find out useful employment for females. In the general remarks,
he observes —
"In the infancy of the society, care should be taken not to embrace
too much, lest the members should be discouraged, but in proportion
as experience is gained, and the confidence of the public secured, to
go on as the funds increase, to extend the benefits of the institution."
" Tliird Month 28th. — S. Stansfield, who is here, joined us at divine
worship, when my spirit was sweetly refreshed, though no words were
uttered. 29th. — The snow is thawing fast ; we set off from Petersburg just at
the right time, and it now appears that we had not a day to spare. We
have been out this morning to deliver our letters of introduction — first
to the military governor, then to the civil governor, and afterwards to
the general who is at the head of the police. We saw them all, and
felt the value of these documents, — without them we could have done
little or nothing.
Moscow contains from two hundred and eighty to three hundred
thousand inhabitants ; the houses are very irregularly built, large and
small being all mixed together. We noticed the ruins of many which
had been burnt in 1812. The Kremlin stands on rising ground, and
is in the heart of the city. It contains the Imperial Palace and the
Arsenal, and consists of a number of streets and public buildings, the
whole surrounded by a wall of considerable height. Moscow is divided
into twenty districts, and there are twenty siesgas, or prisons of the
police, which are somewhat like our watch-houses in England. Soon
after our return to the inn, Abreskoff* came from the master of the police
to offer his services to go with us to the prisons ; he wished very much

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 371
to turn us aside from visiting the siesgas, but it is pretty plain, as he
acknowledged, that they are badly arranged, and we shall neglect our
duty if we do not see them."
Several of the following days were devoted to the inspection of the
prisons, and in reference to them, William Allen says —
" With the exception of the siesgas, which are pretty much the same
every where, we found them in a better state than we expected. At
the great prison, a considerable degree of attention seemed to be paid
to cleanliness. The hospital rooms were in excellent order, and we
were much pleased to see a number of New Testaments, and several
of the tracts translated by the Princess Mestchersky. This prison was
huilt after the visit of John Howard, who suggested some improvements,
which were subsequently adopted. Most of the prisoners in the siesgas
were committed for drunkenness, which seems to be a crying sin
among the poorer classes, and lying and stealing are so perfectly natural
that they appear scarcely to consider them as crimes.
We dined at J. Rowand's, and met an English merchant who has
resided in this country a number of years, and who says that, notwith
standing the present depraved state of morals, he has witnessed a
striking improvement in his time ; some of the company present
thought the adoption of our school plan the most likely measure to
benefit Russia."
" Fourth Month 1st. — A young officer, who was sent by the Com
mandant, accompanied us to the military hospital, where the utmost
attention seems to be paid not only to cleanliness, but even to neatness.
We next proceeded to the military school, where there were four
hundred and ninety-four children. It is only three days since they
began upon our plan, and there is but one young man who knows
any thing of its operations ; he was sent to Kioff, in the South of
Russia, to learn the system ; he only remained there two weeks, and
yet all the children were brought into order. The master gives the
command with a whistle, and the boys form their reading drafts very
regularly and well. This establishment is so interesting that I must
visit it again.
2nd — Our friend Le Croix called upon us, and we went to a mag
nificent establishment like a palace. Its name signifies a house for the
poor and strangers ; it was founded and endowed by a single individual,
Count Scheremetoff, one of the richest noblemen in Russia, who gave
two millions, five hundred thousand roubles for this object, and the
revenues arising for ever from eight thousand four hundred and forty-
four peasants, who each pay a certain sum annually. The regulations
and sanction bear date 1803 ; the Count died in 1809, and the house,
which took some years in building, was opened in 1810. It is destined
to lodge, board, and maintain entirely, one hundred indigent persons,

372 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
of both sexes, of free condition, and good morals and character ; one
half of them to consist of persons of a very advanced age, who are
destitute, and the other half, those who are maimed or afflicted with
incurable diseases. The second part consists of an hospital, into which
fifty poor persons, of both sexes and all conditions, with diseases not
deemed incurable, are to be received and taken care of, gratis. The
third part of the charity consists of an annual distribution of twenty
thousand roubles to poor families out of the house, who may be judged
worthy of it ; and all this endowed in perpetuity by one individual.
Every thing about the house is in a princely style, and it seems im
possible that the neatness and cleanliness of the establishment through
out could be exceeded. The charity is not restricted to country or
religion, for we saw natives of Sweden and other countries settled in
this comfortable asylum. All are at free liberty to exercise their own
religion, and though there is a large magnificent chapel for the Greek
church in the house, none but the members of that church are required
to attend. This liberality might put the high church of England to the
blush. Amongst the inmates was a priest of very interesting appearance ; he
was eighty-two years of age, and blind, he evinced much tenderness
and sensibility, and was affected with a few words which Stephen ad
dressed to him. The old people were very clean in their persons, and
seemed as comfortable as outward circumstances could make them.
It appears that there are no poor-houses here, except such as have
been established by private individuals, and in some of this class which
we visited, the poor people seemed well attended to, and happy.
Strong liquors are prohibited, and if the effects of them were discovered
upon any, they would be turned out of-the house.
Fourth Month 3rd. — We attended a meeting of the Bible Society,
and though we could not understand their language, yet it was cheering
to see persons, strangers to us, engaged in a work so near our hearts.
We formed some fresh acquaintances, and had a good deal of satis
factory conversation, in which much liberality of sentiment was evinced.
In conversing with the Georgian Archbishop, we explained to him that
one of our objects in this journey, was to visit pious persons of different
nations and different creeds, and to strengthen and encourage that
which was good. in any. He said that we ought to go to Georgia, for
we should find some there like the salt of the earth, for whose sake the
nations were not destroyed. Stephen explained to him the nature of
our movements, and that though we felt love to that seed wherever
scattered, yet our course must be directed by an impression of duty.
It appeared by the report to-day, that the Bibles in Hebrew had been
distributed among the Jews in Poland, and were read in some of their
synagogues. The Directeur de Poste, Boulgakoff, mentioned that

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 373
first two, and afterwards three had been convinced of the truths of
Christianity, and it appears that some of the Muphti, in Tartary, had
sent a subscription to the Bible Society, and had become members.
During the last two months there have been sold, in Moscow, copies
of the Sacred Scriptures to the amount of about eight hundred roubles
per month. The present house and premises were given by the Em
peror to the Bible Society, and fitted up at his expense.
4th  Our friend J. Rowand called to accompany us to the Prince
Sergey Galitzin's to dinner. I was very low as we walked up the
great staircase, and yet I felt a degree of tranquillity and peace, firmly
believing that we were going through a part of our allotted service.
The Prince received us with much kindness: he is immensely rich, and
gives away large sums of money in private charity. Only a short time
since he gave two hundred thousand roubles to the hospital for the
poor; he presides over the charitable institutions of the Empress
Dowager in this place. He expressed himself anxious to render us
every service, and we feel that he will do it heartily. His appearance
strongly reminded me of Sir Humphrey Davy. We were in the midst
of stars and crosses, and a number of ladies, amongst whom were
several princesses ; it was plain we were objects of no common curiosity,
yet we were uniformly treated with much respect and attention.
The Prince conversed with great affability, and introduced us to
several persons who kindly expressed a desire to be useful to us. We
were about thirty at dinner, which only lasted three-quarters of an hour,
when all the company rose and went into another room to take coffee.
There was a good deal of conversation on benevolent subjects, and
much interest was excited by an account of the School plan, of E. Fry's
labours at Newgate, &c. The ladies were very attentive. About six
o'clock we withdrew, and returned to our inn.
Fourth Month 5th  We went this morning to see Galitzin's Hospital,
which is one of those, under the care of the Empress Dowager. It is
in the outskirts of the city, on rather high ground, and contains one
hundred and twenty-five patients. We were much pleased with the
neatness of the apartments, and with the accommodation provided for
the patients, the Empress Dowager having herself invented several
ingenious little contrivances to increase their comforts, and alleviate
their sufferings. She has just sent them a present of a number of easy
chairs for the different apartments ; indeed nothing seems to be wanting
which the most benevolent feeling could suggest.
There are several Sclavonian Bibles distributed through the wards,
and they look as if theyhad been used. A patient who is able to read,
sometimes reads aloud to those in his room. I noticed one mark of
delicate feeling towards the poor sufferers, with which I was much
pleased : — when a patient is in extremity, or near the point of death, a

374 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
large screen is placed round the bed, to form a separation from the rest.
Close to the hospital is another institution, also under the care of the
Empress Dowager. It is called the 'Bogadelny Dome,' or, as we
were told the words signified, ' Institution pleasing to God.' It is a
kind of alms-house, for one hundred and four old people, of the poorest
class, and is maintained from the same funds as the hospital. The
rooms are as neat and clean as a parlour in a private house in England.
There were two Bibles in this establishment, but very few of these
poor people can read ; several of the women were employed in winding
cotton, by which they may earn a little money to procure themselves
some extra comforts, but the Russian poor are universally lazy, and
hate work: this, I have no doubt, arises froni their abject state, and the
want of a stimulating object. They are made to work for their lords,
and seem to have little or no idea of working for themselves. I never
saw any establishment for the same class of poor,^ equal to this."
After visiting several other charitable institutions with much satisfac
tion, William Allen observes —
" We were highly gratified with what we saw to-day, and could
only wish that the comforts of these establishments could be extended
to a greater nuinber of objects."
The house for widows is mentioned with peculiar approbation. It
contained one hundred, together with several of their children. Some
of them were training as Soeurs de la Misericorde.
" The place, the persons of the widows, and their clothing," he
says, " are delightfully clean."
Much of the following morning was devoted to a minute inspection
of the Foundling Hospital, which is a very large establishment, and
has many buildings attached to it. There were one thousand, one
hundred, and forty-six children in the house, and seven thousand, seven
hundred, and forty-nine were taken care of, out of the house. After
the age of infancy, they are divided into six classes, and they appear
to receive their education here. Great cleanliness and order prevailed,
and the children generally appeared healthy. The excellent arrange
ments of this institution are a striking evidence of what may be effected,
when talent ahd good feeling, united with the influence of exalted
rank, are devoted to the best interests of humanity. The director
stated, that during four years, corporal punishment had never been
inflicted but twice ; when any thing is wrong in the conduct of the
children, he said, he uniformly succeeded by remonstrance and advice.
One hundred and twenty of the boys are selected; to be taught the
higher branches of learning, in order to prepare them for physicians,
surgeons, &c, and all the rest learn some useful mechanical art. A
certain number of the girls are also selected to receive a superior educa
tion, that they may be qualified to go out as governesses in noblemen's

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 375
families. In the summer, the Empress Mother sends every class of the
children, for two weeks at a time each, into the country for change of
air. In reference to this plan, William Allen remarks —
" There is so much feeling, persevering kindness, and strong good
sense, in all that is done by this excellent and exalted personage, that
it is impossible to avoid being attached to her."
In concluding his account of this establishment, he says —
"We were much pleased with seeing the broad sheet printed in
blanks, which is filled up and sent every day to the Empress Dowager,
giving a detailed account of every part of this vast establishment. I
have not heard of any woman in the whole world, who is so heartily,
so incessantly, and so extensively engaged in works of benevolence, as
the worthy mother of the good Alexander."
" Fourth Month 1th. — We went this morning to visit the institution
called St. Catherine's, for the female children of the Noblesse. It was
established about sixteen years ago by the Empress Mother, and is
immediately under her care. Besides the elementary parts of learning,
the pupils are made proficients in French and German, and learn geo
graphy, drawing, music, and all sorts of needlework and embroidery.
I was glad to find that the more essential parts were also attended to.
The superintendent says, that they are obliged to make their own
clothes, and are taught to cut out garments ; they are shown how to
get up linen after washing, and are taken, in turns, to the kitchen,
where they are made to note down the quantity of articles used, and
to observe the quality, &c. All this is the ordering of the Empress
Mother herself, and is highly praiseworthy. We noticed, that in one
place in the garden, the snow has ,been removed, and a broad long
walk of planks made, which, , it appears, was done by her direction,
that the girls might take exercise in the air without wetting their feet.
It is no wonder that the children look up to her as to a tender mother.
From hence we went to the Institution d'Alexandre, which is for the
children of those who are only Bourgeois, and is also under her imme
diate care. It is exactly upon the same excellent plan as ' St. Catherine's'
Institution, and we were equally pleased with the arrangements ; the
countenances and behaviour of the children indicated the care that was
taken of them in every" respect. When we went into the apartments of
the superieure or directress, she showed us with feelings of pleasure
some pieces of the work of the pupils who had left the house, and
which they had given to her as souvenirs. I love these little traits of
attachment. Fourth Month 8th — Le Croix called to conduct us to the gymnasium.
In every province there is a gymnasium, or sort of public boarding
school, supported by the Emperor, for a considerable number of chil
dren whose parents pay nothing, but it seems that many are admitted

376 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
besides upon very low terms. We were not prepossessed in favour of
this institution ; every thing seemed very dirty, and the general appear
ance was unsatisfactory. We went to Jean de MaltzofPs to dinner ;
he has the establishment of a nobleman, and at his estates near Orel,
he has a glass manufactory, from which he exhibited specimens of cut
glass, which I think cannot be exceeded in England ; they are superb,
and yet he says there is no lead in the glass, but that it is made wholly
of potash and silex. After dinner, which was soon over, we retired to
the drawing-room, and had some very interesting conversation. His
wife appears to be a sensible, clever woman ; she has had the most
gratifying proofs of the influence of good example and care upon
their own slaves and servants. We returned to our inn to tea between
six and seven, and I spent the evening in writing. After supper, read
in the Testament as usual.
Fourth Month 9th. — After breakfast we received a visit from de
Loder, counsellor of state and physician to the Emperor; he is a lively
man, speaks French well, and gave us an account of the state of the
city when the French took possession of it in 1812. He said that after
the battle of Borodino, they had notice to prepare quarters for four or
five thousand wounded, but that they continued to pour in as the snow
fell from heaven, till they had twenty-eight thousand and upwards upon
their hands, and that soon after he had got them settled with the greatest
exertion, he had only a few hours' notice from the military governor
that they must be all moved off, as the French would be with them on
the morrow ; and sure enough, he had only left the gate an hour when
the French took possession of it.
The civil governor afterwards called, also Jean de Maltzoff; the
latter went with us to the vicar bishop Laurentius, who is also an
Archbishop. Stephen had a good deal of conversation with him, and
gave him a Latin copy of Barclay's Apology, with which he seemed
much pleased. Hence, we went to Boulgakoff, the directeur de laposte ;
he received us very cordially, and we had not been long seated when
he read to us the sketch of a plan for a benevolent institution, which
embraced so many of the ideas and sentiments contained in what we
had long since sent in to the Emperor, that the coincidence was striking.
I was very glad of this, and the director wishing that the person who
drew it up should see us, we fixed to have a meeting next week. The
director brought in his wife, and we had a good deal of useful conver
sation ; this morning's work was highly satisfactory. In the afternoon
we went to call upon the Countess Orloff, as she was very desirous to
see us. She is of a benevolent disposition, and immensely rich, and
might very powerfully aid any combination for public charities, either
in the way of education or otherwise. We found on our arrival, a
house like a palace ; we met with a servant and gave him our cards

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 377
to send up stairs, but he was not satisfied, and wanted to know our
famille, that is our titles. Poor Sobieski endeavoured in vain to per
suade him that our titles were on our cards, and that he had nothing
to do but present them ; but he would not ; two others came in and
they had a conference, the result of which was, that the cards could
not be taken up stairs, and we were on the point of coming away, when
the porter came in ; he behaved very civilly, took the cards, which
were forwarded up stairs, and we were soon requested to follow. We
were shown through several magnificent rooms, and at the entrance of
the last were met by the Countess, an agreeable young person, who
expressed her pleasure in seeing us. She introduced us to several
other ladies, one of whom speaks English. We felt very much satis
fied in having made this visit. The Countess wished us to dine with
her to-morrow, but our engagement with the civil governor, to visit
three institutions under his particular care, prevents it.
Fourth Month 10th  After breakfast, we called upon the civil
governor, who accompanied us to the poor-house ; it is more like a
town than a house, and contains, altogether, thirteen hundred people.
We were informed that this great institution does not cost the crown
any thing, but is wholly supported by funds given at different times by
charitable individuals. The floors, the beds and bedding, and the
clothes and persons of the poor, appeared to be thoroughly clean ;
indeed, the whole establishment seemed in excellent order. There
were forty Bibles dispersed in different parts, and here again one of the
inmates reads aloud to the rest, but very few indeed can read at all.
There is a neat convenient apparatus for washing in every room. At
a little distance is a distinct building for insane persons, also under the
care of the civil governor. This house is very clean and in excellent
order ; the system of mild freatment is pursued.' They say, that they
find very good effects from cold applications to the head, whilst the
patient is in . a warm bath. They calculate that one-eighth of the
patients received are cured. Very near this building is the House of
Correction; the prisoners are employed, when the season will permit,
in cultivating some land. A prison committee might do much good
here. The civil governor, however, seems very efficient.
11th. — We attended, by invitation, a committee of the Imperial
Philanthropic Society, ef which Prince Sergey Galitzin is president, and
Alexander Bacmetzff vice-president. The latter is a very active man,
chairman, secretary, and all in one. I must acknowledge, that since
we entered Russia, I have not seen any society for the relief of the
poor,, which has given me so much real satisfaction, it being founded
upon^those principles which can alone obtain and secure the co-opera
tion of the public. The committee, we are informed, consists of about
twenty-five members, and is composed of persons of the highest

378 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
respectability, who give their time gratuitously-, and personally inspect
the state of the poor, by visiting them at their own houses. For this
purpose, one of their number is appointed as visitor in each of the
twenty quarters of Moscow ; when he thinks that the case is a proper
one, he fills up a ticket specifying the amount of relief, to be given for
one month, which ticket is to be presented at the house. The name
of each person entitled to relief, is registered in alphabetical order,' and
a system of checks so contrived as to render imposition very difficult.
The committee meets once a month, but some of the active members
meet twice a week, and the vice-president is there every day. The
funds consist of an allowance from the Emperor of fifty thousand rou
bles a year, and a great deal is received beside from private individuals.
It appears that, in the course often months, they expended seventy-five
thousand two hundred and ninety-nine roubles, in the relief of one
thousand four hundred and eighty-one families. They publish in the
newspapers, from time to time, a list of their subscribers, and the money
expended. We rejoiced to see a beginning made upon a right plan,
and it is only to be wished that in each quarter they could find one or
two persons more of the same character and disposition as themselves,
in order that the benefits of this institution might be extended, and
the personal inspection of the state of the poor rendered still more
complete." In the report to the Emperor, after mentioning this society with
marked approbation, is the following suggestion: —
" We think that if the managers of this institution were furnished
with a copy of the plan for the poor, which we delivered in at Peters
burg, they might probably find some of the hints contained in it useful."
The report, from which the above paragraph is taken, was forwarded
to the Emperor from Moscow ; it contained a brief notice of the public
institutions which the travellers had visited, including those at Peters
burg, together with such observations, respectfully submitted, as ap
peared likely to promote the great objects of their journey. These-
objects maybe considered as especially embracing the advancement
of the Redeemer's kingdom ; the diffusion of light and knowledge, and
the relief of the afflicted and oppressed ; but, whatever related to the
comfort and happiness of man, was regarded as worthy of attention,
and under various circumstances they endeavoured to raise the moral
standard, and advocated the cause of religion and virtue. In visiting
the academy for the education of young men in the different branches
of medicine and surgery, theyobserve —
" We could not but feel a high degree of gratification, and we dwelt
with pleasure upon the reflection, that this establishment, the inmates
of which are to be distributed through the various provinces of this vast
empire, might be the means of saving many thousands of lives ; but

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 379
we think it is of great consequence to devise some means for securing
a more Complete and systematic attention to the moral conduct of these
young students ; for we consider that it is not enough for a medical
practitioner to be thoroughly instructed in what is at present known,
with regard to his particular profession ; in the awful circumstances
which he may frequently be called to witness, if the best feelings of the
heart are united with a deep sense of religion, he might administer con
solation, even when the disease is beyond the reach of human skill."
"Fourth Month 12th. — I received a letter from Dr. Paterson enclos
ing the first sheet of the Scripture Lessons, third division. It rejoiced
my heart, and especially to hear that the Emperor was pressing the
work forward. We went to J. Rowand's to tea, and by appointment
met Lady Porter, the wife of Sir Robert Kerr Porter, who wished us to
take charge of a letter to her husband, now at Constantinople. I wrote
to the Princess Mestchersky to-day, enclosing the plan for her girls'
school at Petersburg." ' •
In this letter he says —
" We have been in this great city about seventeen days, and have
visited most of those institutions which claim the first attention of all
who are interested in the well-being of man. All that I see confirms
me more and more in the belief that those general principles which we
submitted to the consideration of the government at Petersburg, are of
the utmost consequence to this vast empire. I am delighted to find
such a disposition to do good in Moscow ; their Societe de Bienfaisance
pleases me infinitely better than that at Petersburg, for they go upon
the true principle, that is, independent and disinterested characters,
merely for the sake of doing good, are submitting to the labour and
drudgery of research in all -the twenty districts of Moscow ; and although
they do not exactly come up to my plan for the poor, already given in,
yet they have made a beginning in the right way ; and if they do but
persevere and enlarge their plan, as they find themselves strong enough,
they will afford an example worthy to be followed throughout Russia.
I have found several interesting persons here, with whom, if myjife be
prolonged, I shall probably form more than a transient acquaintance.
Dr. Paterson has sent me, to-day, the first sheet of the Scripture Les
sons for schools ; it warmed my heart with gratitude to the Father of
Mercies, for having blessed so large a part of his family with such a
ruler as the dear Emperor. I sympathize deeply with him in the very
difficult path that he has to tread ; but if his trust and confidence con
tinue to be placed on Omnipotence itself, he will be made more than
conqueror, through Him who loved us and gave himself for us. That
declaration of Christ, our great Pattern, ought to be emphatically
impressed upon the minds of all those who wish to do good, ' I must
work the works of him that sent me, while it is day.' "

380 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
"Fourth Month 11th. — We had a visit from the vice-president of
the Philanthropic Society, Alexander Bacmetzff, a truly valuable man :
he is rich and independent, and will accept no crosses or orders. He
has formed a committee of twenty-five persons, whose views are similar
to his own, and he gave us an interesting account of the origin of the
society, stating that he would not have any thing to do with it on the
plan first proposed to him, which was that of giving salaries, as they
do in the Societe de Bienfaisance at Petersburg; but every one here
must exert himself gratuitously, and merely for the sake of doing good.
In the evening I began to prepare for making our report to the ' Imper-
atrice Mere.' "
The following extracts from this report, will show the leading points
which claimed the attention of the travellers : —
" In returning our grateful acknowledgments to the Empress Mother,
for the orders she has been -pleased -to give to the managers of her
various institutions for our free admission, it is our duty to state, that
in every one of them, the directors have received us with the greatest
kindness, and have enabled us to obtain a pretty clear idea of the nature
and benefits of these excellent establishments.
We deem it of consequence to the cause of humanity, that correct
statements of all attempts to relieve human misery, to promote morality
and virtue, by giving a religious education to the rising generation ; to
protect society from the inroads of the vicious, and to reform the
criminal, with the degree of success which has attended them, should
be generally known. It is by this means that benevolent persons, who
may be disposed to devote a portion of their time and their property to
promote the welfare and happiness of their fellow creatures, will profit
by .the experience of those who have gone before them, and will know
how to direct their exertions, with the best possible effect.
We are aware that in the first visit to any institution, it is impossible
to form an exact estimate of its value ; it is difficult to ascertain the
sources of its funds, the annual expenses, the daily and ordinary
management, and the proportion of good done ; these data can only be
furnished by those who are at the head of the establishment, but yet we
find that there are always certain prominent features which enable us to
form some idea of the comparative value of different institutions.
In visiting the extensive charities under the immediate patronage and
protection, and we may add, under the maternal care of the Empress,
both at Peterburg and Moscow, we have experienced a pure gratifica
tion, and our desires have been fervent that the divine blessing may
attend these exemplary exertions ; and as the Empress was pleased, in
the interview with which she favoured us, to open the way for any
remark which might occur, we respectfully avail ourselves of this privi
lege ; at the same time we do it with diffidence, feeling that it is possible

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 381
we are ignorant of many circumstances which may have an important
bearing upon what we have seen.
We shall class the few remarks which we may have to make under
three distinct heads — Education, Hospitals, and the Poor.
EDUCATION.
Feeling, as we do, the unspeakable importance of a guarded educa
tion, and how much it is in the power of the middle and upper ranks
of society to form the habits and influence the character of the great
mass of the people, we could but view with lively emotions, the great
scale upon which the Empress is acting at the Smolney Monastery, at
Petersburg ; the excellent arrangements at the smaller school for orphans,
at 'St.'Mary's,' and the Institutes of Catherine and of Alexander, at
Moscow. The neatness and order which reign universally, the healthy
appearance of the children, the scrupulous care which seemed to be
taken of their conduct and morals, and their progress in useful know
ledge, of which we had many specimens, afforded us no common
pleasure; and in looking forward to the time when these children shall
fill up respectable ranks in society, we could sincerely sympathize with
the Empress in those delightful feelings which she must often experience
in contemplating the result of her labours. These reflections will amply
recompense her for the cares and anxieties that must also attend her
widely extended efforts.
From all that we have seen in different countries of the effect pro
duced by education, we are deeply convinced, that in boarding schools
especially, the minds, habits, and characters of the children will gene
rally be modelled upon those who are placed over them, which makes
the selection of these persons an object of the very first importance. If
the instructress has a well regulated mind, feels deeply the importance
of religion, gives an example of the strictest adherence to truth and
sincerity, in all her words and actions, and governs by love rather than
by fear, the happiest effects may be produced on the minds of the
children ; but if the teacher is destitute of these qualifications, it is
contrary to all our experience of human nature to hope for a good
result. We saw, with peculiar satisfaction, that, notwithstanding the attention
which is bestowed upon what are termed the polite accomplishments,
the Empress had wisely provided for the instruction of the girls in those
things which are eminently useful, and which will be of the utmost
consequence to them when they are called upon to fulfil the great duties
of life. A knowledge of domestic economy, of the way to make the
different articles of their own clothing, and of the minutest details which
have a reference to neatness, might be highly useful to a lady in the
upper ranks of life, as she would be better able to judge whether her

382 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
servants performed their duty; but to the middle and lower orders,
this knowledge is quite, indispensable, and in general a sensible and
well-informed man would consider these qualifications in his wife as
greatly superior to the others. We have therefore noticed with much
approbation what we saw of this kind in the larger establishments, and
particularly the orphan institution of ' St. Mary's,' which we can con
fidently recommend as a model.
We are encouraged by the favourable manner in which the Empress
received our remarks, respecting poor girls in the very lowest ranks,
to renew the subject here ; for we indeed consider it one of very great
consequence. We have found in the course of our travels, in other
nations as well as in Russia, that the poor girls are everywhere very
much neglected, and yet, when in future life they become mothers, they
must naturally have a powerful influence in forming the habits and
characters of the succeeding generation. If these mothers have been
brought up without any correct knowledge of. their duties; if they are
vicious and depraved, we may naturally expect that their children will
be so too ; and thus vice and its consequent misery will continue tohe
propagated. hospitals, &c.
We have examined, as far as we well could in the limited time of a
single visit, the great Hospital at Petersburg, Galitzin's hospital at
Moscow, the hospital of Peter and Paul, and the hospital for the poor
in the same city, all under the protection and care of the Empress
Mother. If, in this transient visit, we had seen any thing which gave
us cause of uneasiness, we should frankly have availed ourselves of this
opportunity of expressing it, but we must confess that iri no part of the
world, where we have travelled, have we seen any thing to equal these
hospitals; they are all upon an excellent plan, the general cleanliness,
the contrivances to secure a proper ventilation of the rooms, and many
other interesting particulars, we have noted down as worthy of imitation
in our own countries; and we must be allowed to say that we were
tenderly affected at seeing the little ingenious contrivances which the
Empress had suggested for the comfort of the poor sufferers, when the
allusion contained in this expression was brought forcibly to our
remembrance, 'I was sick and ye visited me.'
The institutions for < les Enfans trouves,' both at Petersburg and
Moscow, have claimed our particular attention,, and here again though
we have had large experience of the provision made in other countries
for these poor outcasts, yet we have no where found the same extreme
attention to cleanliness, nor the same kind provision made for them
generally. It is true that some of the ablest writers on political economy
have doubted the wisdom and propriety of these establishments ; we

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 383
however can but. rejoice in every attempt to alleviate human misery,
though if the state of society were prepared for it, we think that the
cause of humanity would be more effectually served, by affording the
means to the parent, of supporting her own child, and encouraging her
to perform those duties, which, in the order of nature, are peculiarly
her own.
We had a most gratifying proof of the anxious solicitude with which
the Empress watches over her establishments, in seeing the large sheet
of the daily report transmitted to her at Petersburg.
We did not fail to notice in our visit the Maison des Veuves in this
city, the interesting little groups of ' enfans trouves,' which the Empress
had kindly sent there for the benefit of the air ; this and numberless
other proofs of tenderness, so congenial to our own feelings, cannot but
endear to us the character of the Empress.
Before we close this head, it becomes our painful duty to state, that
in some of the great towns between Petersburg and Moscow, where
the establishments for the 'Enfans trouves' have not the privilege of
the immediate oversight of the Empress, we found the poor infants in
a most deplorably neglected state. In one place, out of two hundred
and eighty-three admitted in one year, only thirty-five were found
surviving at the end of it, and we were fully convinced that unless
means could be found for supporting these establishments properly, it
would be an act of humanity to shut them up entirely, as in that case
we are confident that many lives would be saved, which are now
sacrificed to the vain hope, that the poor babes will be properly cared
for. It would be of the utmost consequence in all these places, to
encourage ladies to form associations to visit these establishments, as
is the case in England and America. POOR.
At the Smolney Monastery we were very much interested with the
institution for the deaf and dumb. We were particularly pleased at
seeing them taught the useful arts, which, while it afforded them amuse
ment, furnished them also with the means of procuring a livelihood by
honest industry." The establishment for a large number of widows in
the same monastery gave us great satisfaction.
The extensive works at Alexandroski, may fairly be considered as
constituting one of the charitable institutions, under the immediate care
of the Empress. We were much gratified in noticing the attention
paid to the education of those employed in the works, and the kind
provision made for their health, by allowing them in rotation to remain
a certain time at a boarding school at some distance.
The library in this and every other establishment where there are
young people^ we consider as a very necessary appendage, and we

384 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
wish to see the youth encouraged in cultivating their minds by reading;
at the same time, we feel that the proper selection of books for such
libraries, is an object of very great importance, and should be glad to
hear that the Empress had taken this subject under her own immediate
care, so that no books should be introduced without her special
sanction." The report from which these extracts have been taken, was forwarded
to the Empress Mother from Moscow, together with the report to the
Emperor, both of which were enclosed to Prince Alexander Galitzin.
In reference to the latter, William Allen says —
" We availed ourselves of the opportunity thus afforded, to throw in
many important Suggestions."
In writing to his daughter,, about this period, he says —
"We have been comforted in meeting with several pious characters
in Moscow, and in various circles have had abundant opportunity for
spreading a correct knowledge of the principles of our religious society.
We have been received every where with the utmost respect and kind
ness, and have always found the greatest openness, though no one who
has not gone through it, can have an idea of the caution and circum
spection which such a service requires. It is our ardent desire that, if
we do no good, we may be preserved from doing any harm."
In another communication from Moscow, he says —
" The manner in which way has been made for us among the chief
men of church and state, to open to them, with gospel simplicity, the
nature of our religious engagements and principles, claims our deep
and reverent acknowledgment. We may truly say, ' It is the Lord's
doing, and marvellous in our eyes.' We see also that, had not this
been the case, it would have been impossible for us to have taken a
step in these parts, where the nature of the service is entirely new ; and
to us the charge has appeared very applicable, ' Be ye wise as serpents,
and harmless as doves.' "
" Fourth Month 18th. — A fine spring-like morning. After breakfast
and our usual reading, we held our meeting. I was low at first, but
yet sweetly comforted in secret, and I felt more calm, and more of the
presence of the Lord in deep silence, than for some days. S. S.
expressed a few words by way of encouragement, and concluded by
reviving the text, ' Rejoice not that the spirits are subject unto you ;
but rather rejoice that your names are written in heaven.'
19th — J. Rowand came in and brought me a packet from Petersburg,
enclosed in a letter from our dear friend Walter Venning. There was
a letter from my beloved child with a good account to the 19th of
Third Month, which is cause of deep thankfulness. There was also a
letter of recommendation from Nicholas Vansittart to the British Minis
ter at Constantinople.

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 385
21st. — We went to dine with Prince Sergey Galitzin, and met a
large company as before. We had a good deal of conversation with
him, and made it the parting visit. We had previously sent him Penn's
« Maxims,' and ' No Cross, No Crown,' with which he appears much
pleased. Hence, we went to General Guerhard's, and found a pretty
large party, amongst whom were some sensible, pious people, and we
were refreshed ahd comforted by being in their company. His wife
speaks English, and even translates little tracts into Russ.; she is very
desirous that I should send her some from England. We had some
very satisfactory religious conversation, and have made' an appointment
to visit her again on first-day evening.
22nd. — Alexander Rogers, a Scotch farmer, settled on one of the
estates of Count Romanzoff, at the desire of the Count had given us a
pressing invitation to pay a visit to the farm, and as we were induced
to accept it, he kindly sent a carriage for us to Moscow last evening ;
the distance from hence, is about twenty versts. J. Rowand accom
panied us, and in going along told us that there were several ridiculous
stories afloat about us, as that we were spies, sent by the Emperor, &c.
The truth is, there is such a mass of corruption, that those concerned in
it are alarmed at the prospect of any thing like investigation. We
passed through some large villages, consisting of a single row of log
houses on each side. of the road, which is very broad ; almost all these
houses have been rebuilt since the general conflagration in 1812. The
Russian army retreated this way, and Rowand says, that when he
came in this direction soon afterwards, the dead horses lay so thickly
in the road that he had some difficulty to pick his way between them.
The views in this ride were pretty extensive ; the soil is light and a
good deal of it cultivated. After passing through rather a large villagp,
belonging to Count Romanzoff, we soon arrived at the house of Alex
ander Rogers, where we met with a kind reception : it has been rebuilt
since the invasion, and is in a sweet quiet situation. A. Rogers's wife
is a remarkably clever woman, and has her dairy, &c.,< in excellent
order ; they make cheese like the Stilton, and I think that I never ate
better. They also make some like the Swiss cheeses; and their butter
is excellent. They have kindly supplied us with it since we have been
in Moscow.
We gave them some of the Princess Mestchersky's tracts, and advised
them to find out some well-disposed peasant in the village, Who could
read, and encourage him to read them to the rest, as well as the Scrip
tures, when they are printed in Russ; They seemed pleased with the
proposition, and I believe will act upon it."
William Allen stated some of his own views, in reference to this
visit, in the following letter : —
Vol. I. 25

386 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.

TO COUNT ROMANZOFF.
"We have had the pleasure of visiting thy farm, under the care of
Alexander Rogers and his excellent wife. Foreigners, as we are, we
nevertheless feel a lively interest in the welfare and prosperity of Russia,
which forms so large a part of the great human family, and whose
enlightened and benevolent ruler is so deservedly dear to our hearts ;
it was, therefore, with peculiar pleasure that we saw this patriotic
attempt to diffuse light and knowledge, by maintaining, at a consider
able expense, a standing example for the imitation of. all those who, in
proportion as prejudices are subdued, may be prepared to profit by it ;
and we were glad to hear that during the eighteen years which have
elapsed since its first establishment, including a periodof unprecedented
difficulty, many prejudices have been surmounted, and the peasants,
by degrees, have been induced to adopt some of those methods of cul
tivating land, which they have seen to succeed so well. In considering
the great importance of this experiment, we can but feel anxious that
the Count should take such measures as would secure the benefit of.lt
to posterity ; for , if appears to us of too much value to the empire to
hang merely upon the contingence of a single life. In passing through
the village, and seeing a number of children of different ages, we felt
very desirous that the Count might be able to devise some means for
their education. As strangers we must, of course, be ignorant of many
local circumstances, and therefore' we advance a sentiment with diffi
dence ; but it strikes us that if the Count were to have a young man
instructed in the system of education, as practised upon his estates at
Homeln, he might establish a day school at the village, and in propor
tion as the children were taught to read, they might be furnished with
the edition of the New Testament, now printing in the common Russ,
and also with the little tracts which have been translated by the
Princess Mestchersky. This would open and enlarge their minds, and
the Count might have the pleasure of seeing, before the close of his
highly useful career, not only the good effects of the cultivation of
intellect among this portion of his peasants, but the influence of his
example upon other Seigneurs. We left a few copies of the tracts in
our visit to the farm, and have since heard that they have been read
with great delight. We learnt with much pleasure that the schoolmaster
at Homeln was conducting himself to the Count's satisfaction."
" Fourth Month 25th. — First-day: Samuel Stansfield came in, and
we held our meeting. Though Ifelt much for Stephen, who had been
very low, my mind was borne up in a remarkable manner, and all
doubt of the propriety and duty of going forward was taken away.
My mental prayer was, that my dear companion might also be refreshed,
and favoured with a renewed evidence that he was in his right allotment.

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 387
On querying with him afterwards how he had fared, I was rejoiced to
find that he had experienced sweet consolation, and that the light shone
upon the path before us. This being so consonant with own feelings
was very confirming.
About five o'clock we went to General Guerhard's. His wife and
several of her friends, amongst whom were some young people, made
us cordially welcome ; they were serious persons, and we have spent
few such evenings since we . set out on our journey; for although it
was extremely difficult to get them into anything like silence, yet there
was such a precious covering of heavenly love over us, that I am sure
it was felt by most if not all, and they were much tendered and affected.
We endeavoured to turn the conversation upon instructive subjects,
and towards the end of our visit the feeling of divine favour became
stronger and stronger ; the young people crowded together to get as
near to us as possible, and Stephen had a sweet communication. I felt
too much for them to venture to express myself in French, so Stephen
interpreted ; it was a heavenly season, and I believe some of them will
remember it as long as they live. Among them was a lady of great
sensibility and pious disposition, who lost her husband at the battle of
Borodino, when the French invaded the country. Three months before
his death, whilst asleep with him and her infant son, she had a most
remarkable dream. She thought she heard a strong voice saying, 'All
thy earthly comfort is broken up, — he is dead at Borodino.' She awoke
in great distress, but falling asleep again, she thought she saw her father
coming to her quite pale, and bringing with him her little son ; he also
said, ' All thy earthly comforts are broken up, for he is dead at Boro
dino.' She thought she was at the time at a certain village, the name
of which was clearly in her remembrance on waking. In the morning
she told her dream to her husband and several other persons, but they
knew no such places, and searched the maps in vain to find them ; for
though the battle has since made Borodino memorable, it was before
so inconsiderable a village, that its name was not inserted. About
three months afterwards the battle took place; her husband, who was
a commanding officer, fell, and the news reached her in the very village
which she had seen in her dream. She now lives on the road to Toula,
and devotes her time to works of benevolence ; she seems to be in a
sweet disposition of mind ; her name is Margaretta M. Toutschkoff.
We returned to our inn to supper, much refreshed and comforted.
S. S. came in to our evening reading.
Fourth Month 21th. —We went round this morning to take leave of
several of our friends, and paid a visit to Prince Obolensky, who is
the curator of the schools. It was quite plain that we ought to have
gone there before; but he received us very kindly, and Seems an
agreeable man. His wife and family were present, and some of the

388 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
remarks respecting ladies' committees, &c, appeared to gve him plea
sure. He was much struck with what we said of the gymnasium, as
it is in his department; I told him of the sketch we had made for
Count Lieven, of the plan upon which this institution ought to be
conducted, and he seemed very desirous to have a copy of it. He
remarked very justly, that to people who had long been in darkness, it
was necessary to illuminate them by degrees, for if we brought the full
glare of light upon them at once,'their organs, not being prepared for
it, might be injured.
28th. — Understanding that the military governor wished to see us
before our departure, we called again upon him, when we had an op
portunity to state our views with regard to the siesgas and prisons in
genera], which I feel confident will have a good effect. He spoke of
a person near Serpukoffj who has an establishment (for his peasants),
and wishes to see us on our way. He took a cordial leave of us, and
we then went to Prince Obolensky ; we find him a very sedate agree
able man ; we are so pleased with him, that we regret not having called
upon him sooner. He took us to see a very large boarding-school for
the sons of the noblesse, under his care as curator, and afterwards to
the university. Here the crown pays the whole expense ; they have
twenty-four professors ; one hundred students are lodged and boarded
in the house. After dinner we made some more calls, and spent some
time with M. Guerhard very agreeably. The governor's wife, Catherine
Guerhard, wrote a note to us the next day in English, in which she
says —
' You know already the intentions of our friend Margaretta Toutsch-
koff; I have been with her this morning and she showed me your
letter ; she is very sorry indeed that she cannot see you once more,
and so we are all ; it is a really melancholy thought, that we shall never
meet again in this world. We beseech you, our good friends, not to
forget us, and to pray sometimes to our Lord and Saviour for us, that
he would allow us his grace for ever. Farewell, dear estimable friends:
though our acquaintance is new, our friendship will never finish, because
it is founded on eternal truth. Be happy always with your beloved
children and friends ; these are the desires of your most affectionate
Catherine Guerhard and her companions.'
These companions are the young persons already mentioned, and
they make the following addition to the note, as I had desired to have
their names : —
'Kitty Galitshkin, who likewise begs you not to forget her.'
' Kitty Reprinsky will never forget you.' i
' Alexandrine Krimoff, vous demande un souvenir; et Marie Krimoff
vous demande un souvenir, et vous conservera toujours le sien.'
'Adieu, adieu. Soyez heureux partout. Moscow, le 17 Avril, 1819.'

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 389
' Recommendez nous a l'amitie de votre bonne Marie, et de la bonne
petite Rachel (Grellet) mon Mari vous demande votre amitie.'
C. Guerhard is very fond of English religious poetry, and has copied
out almost the whole of Watts's Hymns for children.

CHAPTER XIII.
1819. — Departure from Moscow— Visit to General Naschokinn — Tula — Orel — Koursk —
Bielgorod — Karkov— Arrival at Ekaterinoslav — General Contineas — Malakans — Visit to
the German Colonies of Mennonites — Simferopol — Karasan Bazar — Theodosia — Return
to Simferopol — Cherson — Tomb of Howard — Nicolief— Odessa — Voyage to Constantino
ple—Visit to Diplomatic Characters at Beeyuk-ter'e — Arrival at Smyrna^-Visit to the
Bey Effendi — On Board the Boat for Scio.
" Fourth Month 29th, 1819.—— This is to be our last day here, and
though my mind is peaceful, I have a great deal of nervous anxiety.
The director of the post has kindly sent us a list of what we are to
pay upon the road.
30th. — We left Moscow in our britzka soon after nine, with four
horses abreast ; as our carriage has no springs, we were a good deal
shaken, but though fatigued with jolting, I was favoured with secret
support in my mind. The first part of the road is hilly, and we had
not travelled many miles hefore our swing seat broke down. The
country is open, and contains but few trees ; the soil is loam, and as
the roads are much cut up on the melting of the snow, and afterwards
dried hard, it was like riding over pavement. In this day's journey we
passed several rivers, sometimes on a raft and sometimes driving
through them by a ford. We reached Serpukoff, a large place about
sixty-nine miles from Moscow, between one and two o'clock in the
morning, but we could gain no admittance at the inn, nor make any
one hear, though all the dogs in the neighbourhood seemed roused. At
last a baker came out of a house just by, and said he had a yard into
which we were welcome to draw the carriage ; we gladly accepted
this permission, and as he also supplied us with bread, hot water, and
eggs, we made a good supper, and then got into our britzka which
stood under cover.
About five o'clock Sobieski roused us with the information that
General Naschokinn, whom the military governor of Moscow was very
anxious that we should visit, and who resided about nine miles out of
our way, had sent expresses for us in different directions, and that a
messenger had arrived here to conduct us to the chateau. We were
both .very desirous to go forward, but as the governor of Moscow had
sent to inform the General that we were upon the road, we could not
do otherwise than accept his kindness. The General has the character

390 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
of being a very benevolent man, and is very kind to his peasants or
slaves. When we canle into his extensive premises, we saw the house
at a distance in a beautiful situation, with a white flag flying above the
dome in honour of the guests, and as we approached, the music struck
up. I was bad enough before, but this made me sick at heart. On
our arrival we found a crowd of, servants waiting, and the General
received us most cordially. As he speaks .French tolerably well, we
lost no time in informing him that we were a plain people, and loved
simplicity, and we acquainted him with the objects of our journey, &c.
He treated us with the greatest kindness and respect, and provided us
with very comfortable rooms, quite to ourselves. Though this rencontre
was trying, yet it gaye us some farther insight into the mariner in which
these seigneurs live. We visited several of the peasants in their
cottages, and found them very neat and comfortable ; they all have
horses and one or two cows, some more ; they seemed much pleased
with our visit, and brought out their cream, bread, eggs, &c. We sat
down and took a little with them, and found every thing very clean
and good. One woman would not be satisfied without our accepting
some of her fresh eggs. The General took us to see the, hospital which
he has established for his peasants, and we had great reason to be
satisfied with it ; he keeps both a physician and an apothecary. Al
though he is very averse to any attempt to liberate the peasants, ft is
quite plain that he endeavours to act the part of a father to his own.
We saw the children of his school, and specimens of their writing,
which seemed exceedingly well done. They were questioned before
us, and answered with great facility. We dined between two and
three o'clock, and afterwards went to see a chalybeate spring, to which
there is a great resort of company in the season. It is situated in a
beautiful valley, surrounded by woody hills, which form a kind of
amphitheatre. A pint of the water contains little more than the fifth
part of a grain of carbonate of iron, but yet we were told' that great
cures had been performed by it. On returning towards the house, we
saw a group of children, and the General employed, as we find he often
is, in distributing cakes among them. We spent the evening in con
versation, endeavouring to make it as instructive as possible ; and we
think that some of his prejudices were removed. He seems to be a
benevolent, well-meaning man ; nothing could have exceeded his kind
ness, even if we had been the greatest personages. I hope that good
was done. We distributed some of the Princess Mestchersky's tracts,
which they had not seen before, and Stephen, who is the Mercurius,
explained to the General the object and the tendency of these publi
cations, i
Fifth Month 2nd. — We took a cordial, leave of our host, who kindly
sent his own horses with us to Serpukoff. We reached Tula between

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 391
nine and ten at i night, much fatigued and exhausted. The country
through which we passed appears to be well cultivated, but there are
no fences whatever in the fields, and this is the case universally.
3rd  A fine morning; we went out to deliver our letters, and found
the benefit of having been furnished, by Prince A. Galitzin, with intro
ductions to the governors of the provinces, as we had a specimen this
morning of what we might expect if we had not been thus provided.
Having learnt that the governor was riot in the city, we went to the
house of his deputy, but were informed' that he was at the tribunal;
thither we went, and being directed Up stairs, entered a very long room
where a great number of clerks were writing. There was a broad passage
in the middle, and, on entering, we found several persons standing
who could speak- French. Coming in with our hats on occasioned a
general bustle, and some of the clerks began to hiss. We very civilly
inquired of a person, dressed like a gentleman, with an order at his
button-hole, if the Governor was there ; but he immediately asked why
we did not pull off our hats. We gave him our reasons, and assured
him that it was not from want of respect, but a matter of religious
principle with us ; he said we ought to respect the place, for there was
the Emperor's picture. Stephen told! him that the Emperor had per
mitted us, to see him with our hats on; but one of them immediately
said, he did^not beheve it ; to this Stephen made no reply. The place
at the farther end o'f the room, where the Governor and others were
sitting, was parted off with glass windows ; we had by this time made
our way to the door,- where there was rather an elderly man who spoke
French, arid he was the . only person who' showed us anything like
kindness. When Stephen told him that we were of the Society of
Friends, called Quakers,- this gentleman said that they were persons
who, from principle, did not pull off their hats (from eourtesy), and
v smiling said, 'You are from Pennsylvania.' We at length prevailed
upon them to take the letter into the inner room ; several went in and
out, saying that we could not gain admittance without taking off our
hats. After waiting some time, it appeared that the Governor being
absent, his deputy was not willing to open the letter, though they did
not before condescend to give this as a reason for the delay. We then
sent it back with a message to the deputy governor, assuring him that
it was only a letter of introduction, and that he might safely open it, as
we merely wanted permission from the lawful authority to visit their
public institutions. It was, however, returned to us again ; and I then
said that I had travelled in many countries, as well as my friend, but
had never been treated any where as we had been here. I desired
only one more message might be taken in, and that was, whether we
were to write to Petersburg, that we had brought a letter from Prince
Alexander Galitzin, which they refused to open. This produced some

392 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
hesitation ; after waiting a short time longer we concluded to return to
the inn, but as we turned to go away, the deputy governor, came
forward, and we had the privilege of speaking to him through an
interpreter, for he cannot speak French. We respectfully explained to
him our business ; we put the letter again into his hands, and he
appointed us to meet him at his own house at two o'clock. We then
took! leave, and went to the Archbishop Abraham, to whom the Prince
had also given us a letter. Notwithstanding our hats, he received us
very kindly, and arranged for our meeting- him between four and five,
when he would accompany us to the seminary for the children of
their priests. About two o'clock we waited upon the deputy governor,
who had opened the letter: he was earnest to show us every attention,
and arranged to go with us to-morrow to the different Institutions.
In the afternoon we again called upon the Archbishop, and went
with him to the seminary, in which many hundreds of the children of
priests are taught upon the usual method. Here we found the priest
Orchalow and delivered to him the letter from Philaret. I regretted
very much that he could not speak French or English ; he has a sweet
countenance, and seems a sedate and deeply pious young man. There
are thirteen hundred boys upon the list, but the whole number do not
regularly attend ; there are besides five hundred more taught in differ
ent parts of the government. In passing through the rooms Stephen was
fully employed in communication with the person who, accompanied us,
and I have no doubt that many of those children, at a future day, will
recollect the two poor Quakers, -and be curious to know something
more about them. The interview here was very satisfactory. I believe
they all felt attached to us, and the Archbishop as well as the rest, took
an affectionate leave of us. We returned to our lodgings, with a con
viction that this day's work will not be in vain. -
Fifth Month 4th. — Tula is said to contain thirty thousand inhabit
ants ; here are many hardware manufactories, and one for fire-arms,
which is the largest on the continent ; it employs six thousand peasants
of the crown. We were pressingly invited to see it, but, being war
like, we declined the proposal, as it would have been inconsistent with
the objects of our journey. This city covers a great deal of ground.
After breakfast the merchant; who is one of the proprietors of the inn,
kindly lent us his carriage and a pair of horses to go our rounds ; we
first went to the Governor, who accompanied us in his drosky to their
public institutions, but it was obvious they had every where been at
work to sweep and brush. We first came to the military school, where
the house was clean and the boys looked healthy. They were receiving
lessons on religion from a priest, who made them write sentences, and
also take texts from the Sclavonian Bible and write them in common
Russ. We could but highly commend and encourage this practice.

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 393
There was a library, and a little collection of philosophical instruments,
which, as is usually the case, consists of an air pump and some of its
apparatus and an electrical machine."
The foundling hospital, the military and town hospital, the prisons,
and the gymnasium, were also visited, and though attention had
recently been paid to the improvement of some of these institutions,
yet in others there was an evident want of more inspection and over
sight, but William Allen says —
" I have not been able to hear of one public-spirited character in
Tula." In reference to the gymnasium, he says —
" We were very glad to find several copies of the new Sclavonian
Testament among the- scholars, who appeared to be reading them as
a school book ; and we were still more glad to learn that it was in con
sequence of a circular order from the university, so that I hope it is
general. in the evening the Governor came to see us and was very civil, but
as our conversation had to be through Sobieski, it was very limited."
The next morning the travellers proceeded towards Orel, which they
reached the following afternoon. In speaking of part of their journey,
William Allen observes — that the sofl was very rich, that much of the
land was cultivated for grain, and that there were many fruit trees.
Generally, however, the country appeared open, with but few trees,
and in one stage he writes —
" This is a pretty country ; the hills at a distance, and the scenery,
except that there is a scarcity of trees in the prospect, reminds me of
England. They appear to have a rich pasturage for cattle, and we have
seen numbers of oxen, sheep, hogs, &c. They have a great many
horses, and. such is the fertility of the land and the quantity of it in
proportion to the inhabitants, that the cost of keeping them must be a
mere trifle. The windmills have six fliers, which are made of thin
boards, instead of sail-cloth."
On arriving' at the station Vaunifskia, he says —
" This place consists of a few miserable log houses, but the situation
is picturesque and beautiful. The post-master was very civil, and has
a nice family. We brought out our stores of bread and cheese, &c,
and dined here. I superintended the boiling of some eggs, and we
made a good dinner. He would not charge anything, but we gave
him what we considered more than an equivalent ; we also gave him
some of the Princess Mestchersky's Russian tracts, and did not fail to
inform him where he might procure more.
In some of the villages we pass through, the women are dressed in
gay colours, and far beyond what might be expected from the appear-.

394 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
ance of their habitations. Many of them were collected before their
cottages in little groups, singing.
Fifth Month 1th— Orel is beautifully situated on the sides of two
hills ; it has a great trade in corn, but there is miserable accommodation
at the inn, — no civility or attendance of any kind, but Sobieski brushes
about and does the best he can for us. Here we visited the institutions
as usual, and I believe there is a great service in it. One of the teachers
at the gymnasium is an agreeable young man, speaks French, and is a
member of the Bible Society, which he says is increasing. Many of
the prisoners at the great prison were confined for want of passports ;
they are often detained on this account for a very long time, while
inquiry is made from province to province, and are in great danger of
being neglected or forgotten. There is no bogadelney, nor could we
find that any provision was made for the ' poor, except by a venerable
ecclesiastic, whom we visited ; he is called Priest John, and though
ninety years of age, walks about without any assistance but that of his
long cane. He has a benevolent countenance, and I could but love
the good old man. He lives in a small house near one of their places
of worship, by the side of a yard, filthy in the extreme. In and -about
this yard are several little hovels and holes, which he has crammed full
of destitute poor. I think he has more than fifty of these lodgers, and
he seems always contriving how he may make more holes and corners,
in order to take in more ; he rejects none, but all are welcome if he Can
but get them in. He conducted us into these places, and the poor
people were eager to come to him for his blessing. The dirt which
the poor in Russia are accustomed to, is beyond description. This man
receives donations from various quarters, but a little money goes a great
way here. A person might have as much black bread as he could eat,
for a penny sterling per day, and it rarely if ever happens that any
one is starved in Russia. The peasants are very charitable to one
another. Priest John took an affectionate leave of us on our going away,
putting my hand to his mouth and kissing it. I hear that he is univer
sally beloved by all classes. We next went to take leave of the
Governor, and had some agreeable conversation with him and his
friends. In the evening, the young man whom we had met at the
gymnasium came in. He expects that great good will result from those
seminaries which the Emperor has established upon such a great scale
for the children of the priests, who are often very ignorant, and he also
thinks it is of the utmost importance to adopt our school plan for the
poor universally. I lent our French copy of the advantages of educat
ing the poor, &c, to the commandant, the Baron de Korff, who intends
to have it copied. and sent back to me to-morrow morning. We left

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 395
some of our tracts with him and the Governor, but our stock is low.
The Baron is a sensible and very clever man ; many of his remarks
showed a well-informed mind, inclined to benevolence.
Fifth Month 8th. — We left Orel with peaceful minds, and proceeded
through a rich, open country, towards our next point, Koursk. We
travelled all this day and the next night, and reached Koursk about ten
o'clock the following morning. It is a large city, mostly composed of
poor wooden houses, though several are brick, plaistered. The streets are
wide and at right angles. We put up at a dirty house, but, however,
got two chambers. If we had not brought sheets and blankets, we
must frequently have slept in our clothes.
Fifth Month 10th  The Governor was out of town, but we went
by appointment to the deputy governor, whowas superabundantly civil.
I often regret that they will make such a parade in showing us about,
when a simple written order would do quite as well.. We should often
get on much better if we had not such a train attending upon us.
We went first to the gymnasium, in which the district school is also
held. This is one of the very best schools of the kind I have seen in
Russia. The room for the philosophical instruments is better furnished
than any. we have met with before, and they had a set of wooden
models of the mechanical powers in very good style. Their library
contains three thousand, six hundred and fifteen volumes, and among
them are good editions of the Latin classics. We found some valuable
specimens of minerals^ also some neat models of agricultural instru
ments, all which plainly showed that some person of mind had been at
work here. The military hospital is on the same excellent footing as
usual, but the house of correction, and some of the other prisons, are
in a very unsatisfactory state. We were rather pleased with the master
of the police, and, at his request, went to take tea with him ; his wife
seems a tender-spirited woman, and Stephen had a good deal of con
versation with her. Whilst we were there a young man, one of the
preceptors at the school, called ; he came earnestly to entreat us to pay
a visit to a seigneur, who greatly desired to see us, and had sent his
equipage for us ; we consented, and had much conversation with him
and his wife, &c. They have a fine family, and I hope some things
that passed will be remembered. The young man followed us to the
inn, and said, that he was so struck with us at the gymnasium, that he
searched in a Cyclopedia for further information respecting our religious
society, and what he found increased his desire to know more of us.
He was very loving, and said, that he considered this as one of the
happiest days of his life. We gave him some tracts, and he took an
affectionate leave of us."
The next day was occupied in travelling to Bielgorod ; part of the
road was excellent, through extensive open country, extremely bare of

396 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
trees, but amidst large tracts of land cultivated for corn. Though dark
when they arrived, W. Allen says —
" My mind was settled and calm, Under a conviction that I was in
my right place. We have reason to be glad that we came to this city,
and must acknowledge that the most marked attention has been shown
us. We may speak strongly of Russian hospitality, and I believe our
coming here has been the means of stimulating many to greater diligence
in the pursuit of that whichis good. Prince A. Galitzin had given us
a letter to Bishop ¦ Eugene, with whom we had an interview at the
Monastery, much to our satisfaction. He received us in a very agree
able manner, and his observations showed that he was acquainted with
real, vital religion. Stephen had much conversation with him; I did
not say a great deal, though I felt much, and I think the dear man was
comforted and encouraged ; he earnestly craved our prayers, was very
tender at parting, and gave us his benediction."
In passing through Russia it was needful to be furnished with pro
visions as well as accommodation for sleeping, as there was great un
certainty whether any could be procured at the stations, or even cooked
there. This irregularity, with regard to food and rest, rendered the
journey very fatiguing ; but strength seemed mercifully given for the
day, and the travellers could gratefully commemorate the favours dis
pensed by their Gracious Lord, who had provided for their necessities,
and preserved them amidst many perils. On one occasion, they were
in considerable danger from the driver's missing his way in the dark,
but it was discovered in time to prevent any serious consequences. At
Karkov, they were engaged as usual, ahd met with much kind atten
tion from the authorities. William Allen says —
" The Scriptures are read morning and evening -at the gymnasium,
and a portion of them during dinner."
He mentions that a spirit of benevolence prevails in this place, and
states that —
" The secretary of the Bible Society, G. Borelle, has been the means
of distributing ten thousand of the Princess Mestchersky's tracts, and
he said he could translate English tracts into Russ, if they were sent
to him."
In proceeding on the way to Ekaterinoslav, he writes —
"My mind has been sweetly refreshed and comforted with a feeling
of the dear Master's peace, and a renewed conviction that I am per
forming a duty to Him."
During this part of the journey, they came upon those great plains
called Steppes, and soon after crossing the Dnieper, (the ancient Borys-
thenes of the Greeks,) they reached their long-desired point, Ekate
rinoslav, where he says —
" We Were kindly received by the" Governor, and by every one

1819. OE WILLIAM ALLEN. 397
whom we met with, and here, He, who has so remarkably preserved
and conducted us hitherto, has graciously provided for us in this
important part of the work — visiting the German and other Colonies.
We had a letter from Hablitz for the superintendent, General Contineas,
who was out when we went to deliver it, but he came to us soon
afterwards, and from the benignity of his countenance, I was sure,
before he said a word, that he was our man. He received us not only
with kindness, but affection. We were soon convinced of the justice
of all the good we had heard of him from our dear Hablitz and others,
and found him a serious, feeling, sensible man ; he speaks French and
German, as well as Russ, and the Emperor depends principally upon
him in the management of all the Colonies. He was truly glad to see
us ; we explained to him the grounds of our visit to these parts, and
inquired if he Could find a person who could act as interpreter, and
who at the same time possessed religious sensibility ; he almost imme
diately replied, ' I will go with you myself.' My heart was filled with
humble gratitude and admiration. He said, the Governor was very
desirous that we should go and dine with him directly, and that the
Governor of Cherson, who is here on a visit, was to be there. We
accordingly went, and were treated with the greatest openness and
cordiality. Contineas dined with us, and we were glad to become
acquainted with the Governor of Cherson, who kindly invited us to
visit him on our way.
In the afternoon we went to see an extensive cloth manufactory.
The wOrk people are peasants of the crown, but receive wageS. A
great many children are employed, and but few of them have any edu
cation. Fifth Month 19th.- — After visiting the prison, our friend Contineas
made us stop to see a large garden, which he first established about ten
years ago, as a nursery for young fruit and forest.trees, and every thing
useful for the colonies and the country ; he is very anxious that I
should send him seeds, &c, from England, which I have promised to
do, if he-will send me a list. This garden is a truly patriotic under
taking, and it will afford me great pleasure if I can at all Contribute to
its suocess. We visited the hospitals and other public institutions, the
Governor showing us every possible attention. At the district schools
we found they had not, at present, the Bible as a school book, hut we
were glad to hear, that, by the last post, an order Came, that the New
Testament, without note, should be used in the schools. They have
some minerals in glass cases, and a number of useful wooden models ;
among the minerals was a valuable specimen, a fragment of an aerolite,
weighing thirty-six pounds, which fell in the second month, 1814,
about two hundred and sixty versts east of this place. It was of a grey
colour, and, as these stones usually are, in places contained little groups

398 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
of crystals, which the glass showed to have a metallic lustre ; but, what
was most remarkable, one of the sides had a black crust? pretty even,
as if the matter had filled up a chasm."
20th. — After describing an interesting visit to a priest, named Maca-
rius, William Allen says —
" He appears to know fully the privilege and strength of silence, and
is acquainted with vital religion ; he opened his heart to us, and we
felt him like a brother beloved in the Lord ; he seems extremely_humble
and under deep exercise of mind. Dear Stephen was made an instru
ment to comfort and strengthen him, and my mind was engaged in
prayer on his behalf ; he acknowledged he had felt that which was
beyond words, and that we had been sent to him by the Lord. I had
to encourage him to . wait upon God, as a sure way fo experience an
increase of strength, and we parted in the sweet feeling of gospel love
and fellowship."
In his report to the Emperor, William Allen says, in reference fo
this place —
" Our object in visiting the Colonies was to strengthen and encourage,
if so permitted, any pious characters, whom we might meet with, and
particularly to acquire a correct knowledge of the religious sects here.
During the few days in which we stayed at Ekaterinoslav, we became
providentially acquainted with some pious poor people, one of whom,
in the first instance, inquired after us at our inn. Through him we
found out the rest, and had a conference with fhe whole of them
together, our dear friend Contineas and his worthy colleague, A. M.
Fadeev, at different times acting as our interpreters. We learned from
these gOod people, many of whom felt very near to us in christian
unity of spirit, that the persons who frequently go under the name of
Duhobortsi, hold very different principles, and that, in reality, there are
three sects of them. Those with whom we were conversing, called
themselves Spiritual Christians. We put several questions to them,
which they answered with great candour and simplicity, and; as we
afterwards found in conversing, with another little body of them at
Simferopol, that they also were of exactly the same sentiments as those
at Ekaterinoslav, we shall briefly give the result of our inquiries.
They believe in the divine authority of the Holy Scriptures, in the
Deity of our Lord and Saviour, and in the influence of the Holy Spirit,
as fully as any Christians whom we ever met with. They believe it
their duty to abstain from all ceremonies, and think that,the only
acceptable worship is that which is performed 'in spirit and in truth.'
They collect their families two or three times a-day to hear the Scriptures
read, and abstain from secular employment on the first day of the week,
called Sunday, considering it their duty to appropriate this day to religious
exercises. Their marriages are performed with solemnity in their public

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 399
meetiqgs, and the parties promise to be faithful to each other during
life. They believe that the only true baptism is that of Christ with the
Spirit,; and that the water baptism of John is not now necessary : and
they consider that the true communion is altogether of a spiritual
nature, and make use of no outward ceremony. In their meetings for
worship they sing psalms, and several of those who are esteemed by
the rest as most pious, read, to the others in turn. They have no
appointed preachers, but any one who feels himself properly qualified
by the Divine Influence upon the mind, may expound and speak to
edification ; they however consider that it should never be done for
hire, or from any worldly motive.
They believe that a true Christian can never harbour revenge, and
they think it their duty rather to suffer wrong than to seek to avenge
it ; if any differences arise, they are settled among themselves, and not
brought to the tribunals.
Some among them are considered as elders, and though it does not
appear that they are regularly appointed, yet those who are most eminent
for their piety are regarded as such, and it is their duty, when any of
the fraternity are ill, to visit them, and if able to do so, to offer them
advice, or afford them comfort. No particular ceremony is observed
at their burial, but they sing a psalm.
. We were glad to find that they had established a form of discipline,
so that if the moral conduct of any one does not correspond with his
profession, he is tenderly exhorted, and much labour is.bestowed upon
him ; but if .they judge that he cannot be reclaimed, he is disunited
from the Society. With respect to the poor among them, they deem
it their Christian duty to take care of, and support one another. It
appears that they have no instance among them of children acting
irreverently towards their parents, and they are very careful to have them
instructed in reading and writing.
In conversing with these dear people, both at Ekaterinoslav and
Simferopol, we felt an undoubted evidence of the sincere piety of many
among them, and the concurrent testimony of all who spoke of them,
was so highly in favour of their excellent moral character, and quiet
peaceable demeanour, that we could but feel deeply for them, as part
of that little flock scattered through different lands, who have heard the
voice of the true Shepherd, and are striving to follow him."
During the stay of the travellers at Ekaterinoslav, several opportuni
ties occurred for religious intercourse with different classes, and many
books and tracts were distributed.
William Allen sent a detailed account of their visit to the German
colonies of Mennonites, on the banks of the Dnieper, in a letter to his
cjaughter; and in describing this interesting portion of their journey,
says —

400 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
"Fifth Month 23rd  We set off this morning for the Colonies, Con
tineas accompanying us in his carriage. , , Our road is excellent over
what is called a Steppe, which is a wide expanse of natural grass,
without a tree or even shrub. Several mounds from twenty to thirty
feet high, resembling our barrows in England, are scattered over these
extensive plains, and are supposed to be the rude monuments of the
Nomadic Tartars, who formerly Occupied this district. On coming
into the possession of Russia, it was very thinly peopled ; but the
Emperor is encouraging Colonies of industrious persons, chiefly for
eigners, to settle here, and is granting them many privileges. Some,
of these Colonies consist of Germans, including Roman Catholics,
Lutherans, &c. Others., of inhabitants of Smolensk, who were sufferers
when the place was destroyed in 1812. Some are from Bulgaria, and
some are dissenters from the Greek church, who were much persecuted
until the Emperor took them under his protection, and settled them
here. There are six distinct kinds of Colonies, but the most remark
able and the most flourishing are those of the Mennonites, who came
principally from the neighbourhood of Dantzig in Prussia. They are
a most interesting people, and very much resemble Friends, on some
points. Their ministers receive no salary, but support themselves with
the labour of their hands, and even their bishop may be seen guiding
his own plough. They agree with us in believing that war is inconsis
tent with the spirit of the Christian dispensation, and accordingly they
conscientiously refuse to bear arms. This, in their native country,
where every man is supposed to be born a soldier, naturally subjected
them to persecution, and rendered their situation very painful. The
Emperor, however, with that tenderness of feeling, for which he is
so remarkable, secured to them the free exercise of their religion, and
granted them many privileges ; and their subsequent conduct has fully
justified the opinion he formed of them."*
After travelling about thirty miles, we arrived at Neuenbourg, the
first Colony of Mennonites ; it consists of fourteen, families, and every
family has sixty dekateens of land, for which they only pay to the crown
fifteen kopecks per dekateen per annum, with an agreement to keep up
the roads and bridges through their respective places. Each dekateen
is nearly equal to two and three-quarters English acres. A rouble is
worth from ten to eleven pence sterling; one hundred kopecks make
a rouble, so that ten kopecks are equivalent to one penny.
The Emperor, in his visit to these parts last year, was so much pleased
with the Mennonites, that he gives every new family of this sect, who
come to settle here, five dekateens more than to any of the rest. Many
* In alluding to these Colonies, in the year 1830, William Allen observes — " The Empe
ror Alexander, to the period of his lamented death, continued to take great pleasure in
witnessing their success."

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 401
hundred families are expected from, Prussia this year. The King' of
Prussia does not wish to part with them, as they are indeed some of
the very best of his subjects ; but as they cannot bear arms, the popular
odium isso strong against them, that they are gladto get away. The
soil allotted to them in Russia is so excellent, and the privileges they
enjoy there, with the free exercise of their religion, so great, that if
nothing unforeseen occurs, they must, in a very few years, become rich.
Those who have already settled,- have large flocks and herds, and
most of them are in a very thriving way. We took up our lodging in
the village of Cortitz, which consists of thirty-nine families of Menno
nites, and were most hospitably entertained by the mayor of the canton.
The colony, or canton Cortitz, is altogether Monnonite, and comprises
fifteen villages ; the first settlers came about thirty years ago from
Prussia, and consisted of three hundred and thirty-one families, but
they are now increased to nearly six hundred. The houses are built
of wood, very neatly thatched, and comfortable ; they present a striking
contrast when compared with a Russian cottage, and are all furnished
with a commodious barn and granary, and a garden well stocked with
fruit trees. In the evening we had a conference with their elder or
bishop, a very sedate man ; we felt inclined to have a meeting with
them to-morrow, and he very readily agreed to give notice in the other
villages. '
Fifth Month 24th  The meeting was appointed at nine o'clock this
morning, in a very neat, plain and commodious meeting house. On
approaching it, we saw the house surrounded with horses and carts
belonging to those who came from a distance, and, though the notice
was so short, there were about five hundred persons present. There
were some from most, if not all, the fifteen villages. We found them
singing a psalm according to their usual custom, and soon after they
had finished, the Bishop explained to them, in German, who we were,
and the object of our journey, and then exhorted them to prayer; they
all knelt down, and remained a short time without uttering a word.
They are in the practice of silent prayer, both at the beginning and
close of their worship. We then sat as quiet as in a Friends' meeting ;
the presence of the Lord was with us, to our comfort, and indeed
almost as soon as I sat down, my mind was humbled and contrited.
Stephen spoke at considerable length, Contineas interpreting. I thought
that something was also required of me, and had much sweet peace in
yielding to the expression of it. Stephen again addressed them for a
short time. It was a solemn meeting ; several of the people were in
tears, and I believe many will long remember the occasion. We with
drew with the Bishop, who was very loving, as well as others of the
congregation, and I trust they were strengthened and comforted. The
Vol. I. 26

402 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
schoolmaster seemed an intelligent young man, and was desirous tha*
we should see his school, which we did, and found that most, if not "
all, the children in the colony can read ; we left them some tracts.
As Contineas and I were riding together, to see some of the planta
tions, the dear old man encouraged me a good deal about what I had
said iri" the meeting. The whole subject of these colonies is so interest
ing, that I hardly know how to keep my letter in moderate compass.
The improvements they are making are delightful. From Cortitz we
sent our carriages forward by the direct road : but the Governor, by
hiring two small carts, and passing through some water, contrived to
shorten the journey considerably, and gave us also an opportunity of
visiting the Island of Cortitz, situated in the Dnieper. I went with
him in one cart, and Stephen, with the assessor of the colony, in
another. At the side of the river, are large masses of granite rock,
about thirty feet high : there are also rocks on the other side, which,
with the trees — for there are some in these parts — and the surrounding
country, make a beautiful landscape. The Island is nine versts long,
and five broad, and contains one village of the Mennonites. On our
landing upon it, the pious pastor came to meet us in a little light Cart;
we were both struck with the sweetness and simplicity which appeared
in his countenance. After the first salutation, he set off at full
speed to give notice to his wife of our coming ; as we approached the
avenue leading to the house, we found the path strewed with lilac
blossoms, the rooms also were ornamented with flowers, and every
thing bore the marks of neatness and comfort. The mistress of the
house is, apparently, a very clever woman ; they have five or six
children, some, of them nearly grown up. We were much delighted
with this truly christian family, with whom we had some religious com
munication, and Stephen told them, that on entering the house he could
offer the salutation of peace.
We could not get away from these kind people without taking some
coffee with them, and the pastor would go with us himself across the
Dnieper to another Mennonite. colony, where we were to lodge. We
were rowed about seven miles down the river to Schonweise, and here,
though it was late in the evening, they agreed to give notice for a
meeting to be held at nine o'clock. The house was lighted up, and,
at the time appointed, dear old Contineas accompanied us to the place,
where we found about one hundred and fifty collected, and very quiet.
In a little time Peter Hildebrande, the pastor, stood up, and very
briefly informed them, in German, who we were, and what were our
objects, and I understood enough to know that he did it in a feeling
and very proper manner. They then, as before, all knelt down in
mental prayer, and, after a pause, Stephen was led to show the neces-

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 403
sity of a life of holiness, and to give much counsel adapted, I have
no doubt, to their state. The meeting ended, as it began, in great
quietness. Fifth Month 25th.- — We had a parting religious opportunity in the
family, and, after travelling over part of a vast Steppe, arrived in the
evening at Graenenthal, where there is a settlement of nine or ten
families. This' is one of the principal stations of the flocks of Merinos,
and "Contineas examined them very carefully. We slept in a little
cottage which was very clean ; the owner of it is the overseer of this
colony, and seems an excellent young man; his mother lives with him.
26th. — Our road still lay over the Steppe, where good natural grass
grows luxuriantly. We passed through several villages on our way to
Halbstadt, a considerable settlement of the Mennonites, where one of
their elders or bishops resides ; his dress is the same as the other
colonists, he has five or six children, and is esteemed a pious character;
he has no remuneration for his office, strictly observing the injunction
of the Saviour, ' Freely ye have received, freely give.' We went to
call upon him and met with a very kind reception ; he readily agreed
to our having a meeting for worship in their meeting-house, which is
near Petershagen, and said he would himself arrange for notice to be
given. As there is to be an examination of some young persons in the
Catechism, &c, to-morrow morning, it was settled that the meeting
should be in the afternoon. We learnt from the bishop that they have
received five hundred Bibles from the Bible Society at Petersburg, and
four hundred Testaments. He only speaks German, so our conversa
tion was through Contineas ; he seemed to feel love for us, and we did
for him. There are two bishops or elders in the colony, who ordain
the inferior clergy by the laying on of hands: they do not administer
baptism till about the age of seventeen, and not then until the young
person is found capable of going through an examination.
We went to their cloth manufactory, where they have an Englishman
to conduct the process of dyeing. In the afternoon we went to see a
nursery of fruit and forest trees, from whence the colonies in the neigh
bourhood are supplied. The good effects of this wise plan are quite
incalculable. We then proceeded to Petershagen, where we were to
lodge, and were kindly received by an aged Couple, wilh whom we
felt immediately at home : there is something so mild and agreeable
about these people, we seem quite amongst our own friends. There
is an air of tranquillity and peace in this place which I have never
witnessed in any other village.
Fifth Month 21th — We went this morning to attend the examination,
which -was conducted by the bishop. The- appearance of many of the
young people was interesting, and we thought that divers of them were
acquainted with the power of religion. When the questioning was

404 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
gone through, the bishop spoke to them for a short time, and Stephen;
having obtained permission, also addressed them. I was afterwards
very low, and felt the prospect of the meeting in the afternoon. I
walked alone into the garden, where my prayers were put up that our
Divine Master would glorify his own name, and preserve us from in
juring his blessed cause, either by saying or withholding, and I was
comforted in this time of retirement.
The meeting was a favoured opportunity, for which we felt humbly
thankful. Stephen preached for some time, and was afterwards engaged
in prayer; Contineas interpreted on both occasions, and having felt
that it was required of me to speak, I rose, and began with the text,
' The kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.' Stephen put
what I had t<rsay into French, and Contineas into German. When
the meeting was over, we shook hands with the bishop, who seemed
very affectionate and kind.
Ffth Month 28th  My eyes are violently inflamed this morning,
which I attribute to travelling in the wind over these exposed plains,
but my mind, is filled with peace. We -.paid sweet visits to several
families, and found the hearts of the people quite opened to us ; indeed
we have met with great kindness from. them. We dined with the
Oberschultz of the colony, who was at our first meeting, and has since
followed us wherever we have been ; and in the afternoon we returned
to our kind aged host, where we had an affecting parting in the full
Sowings of gospel love. They entreated that we would remember
them. We then set out for Orloff, another Mernionite settlement, where
we lodged. We passed an extensive Bergerie, and saw a beautiful
flock of between two and three thousand sheep.
29th. — A meeting was appointed for us this morning af the place of
worship here, and the bishop came over from Halberstadt to attend it.
He introduced us in a very feeling manner, stating who we were, and
the objects of our journey. About five hundred. persons were present.
They commenced as usual by kneeling for a short time in silence, and
when all rose and were seated, there was a solemn pause. Stephen
then addressed them for above an hour. He spoke in French, as
before, and Contineas interpreted sentence by sentence into German.
The people were very attentive, and after he sat down the silence was
again impressive. The meeting being concluded, the bishop dismissed
the congregation. He afterwards came to dine with us, and on parting^
took a very affectionate leave, commending us to the divine care and
protection. We felt these people dear to us in the bonds of Christian
fellowship. On leaving Orloff' we proceeded fo Altona, the last of the Mennonite
settlements; we passed several villages on our way, and were truly
gratified in seeing the neatness of the houses. We were kindly taken

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 405
in to lodge by a precious young man, one of their ministers, who, with
his wife, gave us a kind and Christian reception. We were in the very
room which the Emperor occupied in his visit last year, when he was
quite delighted with these people.
In the evening, Contineas and our host accompanied us a distance of
about five versts, to Terpania, a village where there is a settlement of
one of the sects of the Duhobortsi. We crossed the Moloshnia river,
and on our arrival, were conducted to the house where they are in the
practice of meeting on public ofccasions, and where we found several
of the fraternity. They were well dressed according to the custom of
the country, but there was something in their countenances which I did
not quite like. We had some conversation through Contineas, and
informed them that we had heard in England Of the persecution they
had endured, and also of the humane interposition of the Emperor,
on their behalf, — that while we had felt sympathy with them in their
sufferings, we wished to know from themselves what were their religious
principles. It soon appeared, however, that they have no fixed princi
ples ; there was a studied evasion in their answers, and though they
readily quoted texts, it is plain they do not acknowledge the authority
of scripture, and have some very erroneous notions. I was anxious to
ascertain their belief respecting our Saviour, but could learn nothing
satisfactory. Stephen endeavoured, through Contineas, to convince
them of their, errors on some points, but they appear in a very dark
state ; they have driven out from among them, all those persons called
Duhobortsi, who receive scriptural truth, and who are of the class with
whom we were so much pleased at Ekaterinoslav. My spirit was
greatly affected, and I came away from them much depressed.
The following morning (first-day) was also spent with the Duhobortsi ;
a considerable number attended what they called their worship, but some
of their ceremonies were painful to witness. They manifested great igno
rance oh the subject of religion, and the interview did not prove more
satisfactory than that on the preceding day. An opportunity was how
ever afforded for some gospel labour among them."
In the evening a meeting was held with the people of Altona.
William Allen says —
" In the time of silence I felt the precious life rising, and had no
doubt we should have a good meeting, and so it proved. Dear Stephen
preached for about an hour, and had acceptable service ; after this there
was a solemn pause, and I then rose and spoke for some time, but I
was careful to leave off when the pressure of duty was removed. It
was a season that ought never to be forgotten by us. The people were
affected to tears, and the feelings at this meeting richly paid us for all
our toils and privations on the road.
Fifth Month 31st — On rising, this morning, my mind was filled

406 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
with sweet peace. Our friends provided an early breakfast, after which
we had a precious parting opportunity with the family, &c.^and then
set out for Perekop, Contineas accompanying us part of the way. I was
with him, as usual, and we had much interesting conversation, for I
can generally make myself well understood in French, but in public
religious communications I am afraid to venture. After going through
the Moloshnia Vodi, and passing the village of the Duhobortsi, which
we had previously visited, we took a final leave of dear Contineas, with
much affection on both sides.* About noon a covered cart overtook
* Neither time nor distance interrupted this flow of affectionate feeling, which continued
till the close of Contineas's lengthened life. It was occasionally renewed by interchange
of letters, and his last communication to William Allen, dated "March 21, 1830," was
dictated after he was unable to do more than affix his name to it. The first letter which
W. Allen received after their separation was addressed — >
TO WILLIAM ALLEN, OP LONDON, AND STEPHEN GRELLET, OF NEW YORK.
" Ekaterinoslav, the 16th Nov., 1819.
"Much respected, very dear, ahd worthy friends,
" I should not do justice to the feelings with which you have inspired me, feelings which
are indeed near my heart, if I made use of any other terms in addressing you. The two
weeks which I had the happiness of passing in your society, are a memorable epoch in my
life. You are the first travellers whose acquaintance has been to me as delightful as it was
edifying, and the separation from you has left deep regret in my soul, as well as in the
hearts of the Mennonites whom you have visited. My official journeys prevented my send
ing them a translation of your letter, addressed to the ministers of their church, until the
month of September ; their reply will show you with what devotedness of heart they
received it, and how much they were edified by the spirit of christian piety which breathed
throughout the whole of it. It was solemnly read in the four churches, before all the con
gregations, and touched the auditors even to tears. The recollection of your ever memo
rable visit, of your pious labours, of the edifying sermons delivered by you in their temples
and in their families, in the pure spirit of the Gospel of the Saviour of souls, will remain
for ever engraven on their hearts, and not only on the hearts of the present generation, but
will be handed down to their posterity; for your names and your memory are cherished
and honoured by persons of all ages. There is little hope that two apostles Hke you, one
from England, the other from America, will soon re-appear in our horizon to comfort
suffering humanity, to loosen the chains of the prisoner, and to spread the pure light of
christian faith. Renewed desires are-awakened in the .hearts of the Mennonites, as well as
in mine, that, through the Grace of our Lord, after a journey as long and trying as it has
been salutary to many nations, is accomplished, you may be happily restored to the bosom
of your dear families. Since you were here a Lancasterian school has been opened for the
children of soldiers ; it "is maintained by the crown, and about two hundred and fifty "boys
are receiving instruction according to that excellent method, which, it is said, will be
introduced every where. I mention this circumstance, knowing that whatever tends to the
welfare of mankind is interesting to you.
I conclude, my very dear and worthy friends, earnestly entreating you to let us hear of
you. We pray that your christian piety and the spirit of your edifying words, may every
where make as salutary an impression as with us, upon souls which need to be strengthened
in the faith of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. May his grace be with you always, and
with us all ! Your sincere and faithful friend, Contineas."
The reply of the Mennonites, to which Contineas alludes, breathes the same spirit of
christian love and pious feeling whiph characterizes his letter. It is dated, " From the

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 407
us, and it proved to be one of the colonists who brought the packet of
letters which had been forwarded from Ekaterinoslav. My poor eyes
were in a sad state, but I could not resist the inclination to read as
much as possible of this treasure, and I was greatly comforted and
deeply thankful at the accounts.
In the course of our ride to-day we saw some beautiful green lizards
running about, and some little brown animals which I think were jer
boas ; there was a great variety of birds, some of which were so tame
that they let us drive close by them. Several eagles and wild peacocks
were amongst the number. We stopped for the night at a single house,
but as there was no accommodation for lodging, we remained in the
britzka which was drawn under cover. Close by us was a company of
Turks and Tartars, crowded together in a little hovel. As I was walk
ing about, a very agreeable man, a traveller, accosted me. He was a
Greek from the Island of Zante ; he was very much of a gentleman,
and there was something mild and affectionate in his manner. We
both heartily regretted that we could not speak to each other, but like
myself, he knows a few words of Russ, and smiling and looking up
wards, he pronounced the word ' God' in that language, Stephen and
Mennonites on the left shore of the Moloshnia, in the Government of Tauris, in Russia ;"
and, after a loving and apostolic commencement, they write — ¦
¦ " Dear Friends, your affectionate desires for us, in consideration of the great care
devolving on us, as pastors of the flock entrusted to us, excites in us frequent desires to be
found worthy of the ever-important office of a minister of the gospel. The apostle saith,
' We are stewards .of God's mysteries.' Oh that we may be found faithful !
We have abundant cause to thank God for the vast blessings bestowed upon us in his
grace, who hath, by his merciful hand, condescended to guide us, poor unworthy sinners,
to a country under so glorious a monarch, whose praise resoundeth to the ends of the earth,
and under whom we have undisturbed peace. Yea, for all our temporal blessings, and
more especially for the salvation of the soul, thanks be unto thee, 0 Lord of hosts, now
and for evermore Amen !
To this we would add our fervent desire that we had hearts to fear God, and keep his
commandments all our lives long. May the Eternal Redeemer, in his mercy, be our
stronghold, our shield, and our fortress, and preserve us from the stratagems of the enemy !
Dear friends and brethren in Christ, your honest-hearted visit to us, your edifying counsel,
and your balsamic epistle, we gratefully accept as a proof of pure brotherly love. Our
hearts have been thereby united to you, and your salutary instructions have awakened, in
many of us, peculiar thoughtfulness. You have left your homes for the sake of the word
of God, and the salvation of souls, and have offered yourselves up to his guidance for
Jesus' sake._ We very earnestly desire that he may accompany your important work with
his saving blessing. We have, with joy of heart, to thank the Lord our God for his mercy,
that", in these latter times, lie makes use of faithful labourers as instruments to spread the
pure precepts of Christianity. May he bless you with the strength of his Spirit, that your
labour may not be in vain in the Lord ; maybe continue with you in your holy undertakings
prown your faithful labours, and reward you for ever In his mercy ! Dear friends, though
the wide sea separates us, yet love unites us. May God unite our hearts more and more in
the power of the Holy Spirit, and bless us all with heavenly grace ! We all salute you with
the kiss of love and peace, (Signed) JACOB FAST,
Elder of the Congregation at Halberstadt."

408 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
I were afterwards amused in considering how many different nations
were met in this spot, — an American, an Englishman, a Greek, a Ger
man, a Pole, a Turk, Tartar, Jew, Russian, &c.
Sixth Month ls<.— We started at five o'clock. In the course of this
day, traversing the great steppe, we stopped to rest the horses at Gara-
shoo, a Tartar village, and were dining, in the britzka, when a Tartar,
who we afterwards found was one of the principal men in the place,
came to the side of our carriage, and looked upon us so lovingly, that
I almost involuntarily took him by the hand. He could speak Russ,
and Sobieski told us that he was very earnest for us to go to his house,
which I was ready enough to do, as I like to see how the various tribes
of the great human family live. We accordingly accompanied him and
several of his companions, and found that they had a school which they
took us to see. The floor was spread with old carpets, as they do not
use chairs or benches. One of the boys read to us in the AI Koran,
and they showed us some df their writing, which appeared very neat,
The schoolmaster had a brass case for the reeds with which they write,
and a little inkstand attached to it; they write from right to left. The
priest was also at the school, and Stephen contrived to get two or three
ideas conveyed to him through Sobieski, which our Tartar friend, in
an audible voice, interpreted to the rest. They are of course all
Mahometans, but they believe in the influence of the Divine Spirit upon
the mind. We much wished we could have spoken in their language,
as their hearts seemed open to us. The house of our kind Tartar con
sisted of several apartments on the ground floor ; he brought us into
his parlour, which had something like a long bed in it, on which he
placed us. He pressed us to stay all night, saying that he would kill
a sheep for us, and that we should have plenty of time next day to get
to Perekop, but we excused ourselves. He would make us take tea,
and gave us some which was excellent. He is very desirous to pro
mote the education Of the children of his village, and there seems
something good about him. He accompanied us to the carriage, and
on taking leave, kissed our hands and put them to his forehead.
About seven o'clock we stopped for the night at a Tartar! village,
and slept in our clothes in the carriage as usual. As my eyes are
beginning to get better, I ventured to write a little in my journal, but
travelling, and continued engagements, render it extremely difficult to
keep it up. I had a better night than the last, and though thus exposed
in the road, in the midst of Jews and Tartars, I felt no apprehension
or anxiety. The hand of the Lord has been marvellously with us;
though our trials and privations have not been small.
Sixth Month 2nd. — My eyes are a good deal better. We have seen,
to-day, a large .flock of camels or dromedaries, also many birds not
common in England. On arriving at Perekop, we were taken by the

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 409
i
driver to a private house, there being no inn in the town ; we were,
however, kindly received and entertained, and our host refused to
accept any remuneration ; he insisted upon our taking up our quarters
with him on our return.
3rd— In our way to Simferopol, we went to see one of the principal
salt lakes, which supply the whole country with salt. It is formed
entirely in the lake, by spontaneous evaporation, in the seventh and
eighth months. We saw a number of persons at work, and learnt the
particulars of the process employed in preparing it, from a prestor or
officer, who was very civil. The lake is thirty-eight versts round: it
has no communication whatever with the sea, and consequently there
must be salt springs. I was much gratified with this sight.
4th  Started about six. We are still passing over a great steppe :
the soil is extremely rich, and the grass luxuriant, but there is a great
deal of wormwood in it. During our ride to-day we observed moun
tains before us in the distant horizon, a sight which I do not recollect
that we have had, in all our journey from Abo, a distance of nearly two
thousand miles.
We arrived at Simferopol about noon. The only inn is a very
miserable one, but our rule is to make the best of every thing. After
dinner we took a turn through the town, and came among a great
number of shops ; in one of them we saw a range of books which we
thought looked like Bibles, and they proved to be so. On inquiring
whether there was a Bible Society here, we were glad to find that there
was one ; they sell but few Tartar copies of the Scriptures, but several
of the Hebrew Testaments to the Jews. We met with a, young man
of an agreeable countenance, who it appears is a member of the Bible
Society, and we brought him to our inn, and gave him some of the
Princess Mestchersky's tracts.
Sixth Month 5th. — We called upon the vice-governor, but not finding
him at home, went to the house of the secretary, who is an agreeable
man, speaks French well, and is a member of the Bible Society. We
prevailed upon him to open the Prince's letter, which, he says, is a
very full recommendation, and that all under government are bound to
assist us to the utmost of their power. We saw five or six of the people
called Duhobortsi in the evening, and discovered that they were of the
right sort ; we were much pleased with every one of them, and thought
there was great sweetness in their countenances. We find they prize
the Scriptures very much, and had collected a subscription amongst
themselves, which they sent by the post to " Petersburg, to purchase
Bibles, but the money was lost. We think it right to go to Sevastopol,
hut have fixed to have an interview with them again, before we finally
leave this place.
6th. — My mind is filled with sweet peace this morning, and a full

410 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
evidence that we are rightly engaged, and doing the Master's work.
We arrived at Sevastopol in the eveneng, having stopped on our way
at Batchisaray, where there are a great many Jews of a particular kind,
called Carod; they are mentioned in Dr. Pinkerton's book. We
visited their interesting establishment, situated on the summit of high
rocks, from whence there is a full view of the Euxine. The chief
priest, with whom Stephen had religious conversation, showed us a
valuable manuscript copy of the Old Testament, beautifully written on
parchment; it was in a long box, covered with black velvet, and
ornamented with silver ; the, box contained two rollers, on which the
manuscript might be wound from one to the other ; I was pleased to
see this specimen of the ancient plan. They have a printing press here,
and a school, in which mathematics,-algebra, and the higher branches
are taught. These Jews differ from others in rejecting the Talmud and
adhering to the pure text of Scripture.
Sixth Month 1th. — We saw the commandant, who received us Very
kindly; we visited the institutions, and towards evening, when we
were returning from the last prison, an officer joined us and entered
into conversation, respectfully inquiring into the objects, of our journey.
He was struck and affected when he heard what they were. -Soon
afterwards, another gentleman, who, it appeared, was a cousin of his
and brother to the commandant, likewise joined us, and he also seemed
deeply interested in what he heard ; they were very loving, and we
brought them to our lodgings, where we had a great deal, of conversa
tion, and gave them some tracts. They seemed as though they did
not know how to express their gratitude for this providential meeting.
Their minds were tender and open ; one of them is said to be a very
learned man, and is assesseur of the college at Sevastopol ; they are
Greeks, as is also the commandant, though in the service of Russia.
After they had spent a considerable time with us, they begged that we
would take a walk with them, when they took us to the house of the
commandant ; he received us very respectfully, and here also we had
much serious conversation to our great satisfaction; it seemed like the
small rain upon the thirsty ground. We did not leave them till rather
late, when they again accompanied us to our inn. I believe this inter
view will long be remembered, and we felt, that for it alone it was
well worth while to come to this place.
8th. — We called on Lieutenant-Colonel Gavrina, who accompanied
us to the schools. Here, as in many other places, the education of the
poor girls is almost wholly neglected. There is no gymnasium, and
we find that there are about one hundred and fifty officers' children in
want of education. Their parents do not like to send them to the
military school. A school on our plan is grievously wanted. We
must notice this in our report to Petersburg.

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 411
When we had finished our business, we went to take leave of the
admiral, who kindly ordered his boat to take us and our baggage
across to the place where we had left the carriage on coming here.
Sevastopol is an excellent port, and is very advantageously situated on
the side of a bill. We left it a little before eleven, and reached Simferopol
in fhe evening.
Sixth Month 9th.< — We visited some of the institutions this morning,
and have rarely seen a prison so clean and so satisfactory ; classification
seems to be the principal thing wanting.
In the afternoon we had an important conference with the Malakans,
improperly called Duhobortsi ; they appear to be precisely the same in
principle as those at Ekaterinoslav. They believe in the Holy Scrip
tures, and in the divinity of our Lord and Saviour, as fully as we do
ourselves ; they also believe in the influence of the Holy Spirit, and
that saving grace is universal, and not withheld from any ; that it leads
to all that is good, and, as we yield to it, assists us to avoid all that is
evil. They believe that the only true baptism is that of Christ with
the Spirit, and reject water baptism as unnecessary ; they believe that
spiritual baptism only, produces regeneration ; they consider that the
communion with Christ is wholly spiritual, and make use of no out
ward ceremony. In conversing upon this subject, they were evidently
affected at finding that our sentiments so exactly coincided with their's.
But few residing here were born in their society, they were convinced
by reading the Scriptures, and by what they felt in their own minds ;
this, of course, endeared them still more to us, and was a precious and
confirming evidence of those truths which we believe. These poor
people had never heard of such a society as our's, and yet, by attend
ing to the influence of the Divine Spirit, were in great measure brought
to support the same testimonies in the midst of the darkness that sur
rounded them. They have suffered nobly for the truth ; several of
those who were convinced in the government of Orloff, meeting together
for the purposes of worship were noticed by the police, and as it was
contrary to the established religion, they were banished. They do not
admit members till after a trial of their conduct ; if any are immoral,
care is taken to exhort the parties ; to endeavour by all means to reclaim
them, and also to pray for them, but if this is unavailing, they are dis
missed from the society. Only a few of them can read.
It appears that there are three distinct sects.
1. — The Spiritual Christians, or those of the principles just described ;
they also call themselves Malakans.
2 — Duhobortsi. Those on the Moloshnia, and reject the Scriptures,
and are hot Christians.
3. — Sabbatarians. Those who observe the seventh day, abstain

412 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
from swine's flesh, and think that the Jewish dispensation was not fully
abrogated by Christ.
We were glad to find that a great part of those who reside in the
government of Saratof are Malakans.* The largest proportion of those
upon the Don are also of the right sort, as well as those in the Caucasus.
In this interesting conference, much counsel was, communicated to
them through the secretary, who kindly acted as interpreter.
Sixth Month 10th. — We packed our britzka this morning and set off
for Theodosia, stopping on the way at Karasan Bazar, to visit the
prison and Schools. There is a Tartar school here, a Jews' school,
and an Armenian, school. In. the first, the only books in use were the 1
AI Koran and a book of prayers, and most of these were in manuscript;
it requires a course of years tp teach the children to read. At the
* As the Malakans appear to be little known in this country, we extract some farther
particulars respecting them, from a document sent to William Allen in the year 1830; it
was forwarded to him by J. Penner of Cortitz, one of the Mennonite colonists, who says he
is indebted to J. Cornies of Orloff, for the information it conveys.
" Between the German colonies of Mennonites and the Nogay Tartars, lies the country
of the Malakans, a sect so named on account of their non-observance of fasts, and their use
of milk diet on week days. The Malakans also call themselves true spiritual Christians.
The district, or portion of land, appropriated to them in 1823, contained about thirty thou
sand dekateens', and in it is situated the large and well built town of Nowa-wasilowka.
In February, 1825, their fiumber consisted of three hundred and ninety-eight males, and
four hundred females ; now it is increased. They are chiefly from the governments of
Tambov, Orloff, and Ekaterinoslav; many Don Cossacks are to be found among them, and
several who have long served their country in the rank of officer, ahd bear marks of this
service. They have suffered persecution, in consequence of their separation from the
Greek church, and many, particularly the Cossacks, languished for a long time in prison ;
they, however, firmly maintained their ground, and could not be compelled to give up those
opinions which they had formed in consequence of reading and searching the Bible, with
the contents of which they were well acquainted. They prefer the Holy Scriptures to all
other writings, considering them as the rule of their faith, and as containing the revealed
will of God to man. Though not rich, they have paid as much as seventy roubles for a copy
of the sacred volume. They acknowledge Christ as God manifest in the flesh, who died on
the cross for the sins of the world. Like the Duhobortsi, they give' an entirely spiritual
signification to baptism and the supper, which are not kept by them in external signs and
symbols. They reject pictures or images, and the adoration of saints, in, their worship, as
well as other ceremonies of the Greek church. They generally lead a good moral life, and
there are among them many seeking souls who love God, and are searching after truth.
It grieves them much that they cannot maintain order and harmony in their colony, but
they do not appear to have a sufficiently organized system of discipline. In their assemblies
the Bible is read and explained ; though most of them love the truth, yet they divide
and separate themselves, forgetting, in the work of interpretation, and the support of points
unnecessary to salvation, that love which ' is the fulfilling of the law,' and which would
unite all in the bond of peace. They are laborious and upright, and are amenable to the
government under which they live ; they have no establishment for the education of their
youth, The Sunday is strictly kept amongst them.
Since the year 1825, to the present period, 1830, the Malakans have, from time to time,
been joined by settlers from Astracan, Orenbourg, Saratov, and other principal parts, so
that there are now three large villages."

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 413
Armenian school they have Bibles. We had some conversation through
Sobieski, with the Priest, who was very kind, and would have us go
and take tea with him. We regretted much that we could not converse
with these people, many of whose hearts appeared open to us. We
travelled through the night, and the following morning reached
Theodosia, a very ancient town, beautifully situated upon a fine bay,
where there is excellent anchorage for large vessels. It was once a
very large and powerful plate ; the Genoese took it from the Greeks ;
the Tartars from the Genoese, and about thirty-two years ago the
Russians took it from the Tartars. After breakfast we waited on the
Governor, and found him a very agreeable man.
He -took us to see that part of the town where quarantine is per
formed. About twelve years ago the plague appeared in this place, and
swept off nearly one-half of the inhabitants ; it was imported again six
years ago, and, in the house next to our inn, all the residents died :
it still remains empty. We then visited the institutions, and in the even
ing had much interesting conversation with the Governor; he wishes
for information on our school system* and as he reads English, I pro
mised him a Manual and some other works. It was worth visiting this
place, were it only to become acquainted with him.
Sixth Month 12th  We set off this morning on our return to Sim
feropol, intending to take the remaining German colonies in our way.
The Governor kindly ordered two horsemen, one a Greek, the other
a Tartar, to accompany us and show us the road. He came himself to
take leave of us, and we parted affectionately.
In passing along we came to a neat little village, which is very rare
in this country. Here is a horizontal windmill, and they have two or
three such at Theodosia. About two o'clock we arrived at the first
colony Heilbrunn, consisting of thirty-six families from the neighbour
hood of Stuttgard, who settled here about fifteen years ago. We met
with a kind reception at the house of Heinrich Pehler, and on consulting
with the mayor or head officer, and some others, they readily agreed
that we should have a meeting with them, and that notice should be
given. They have no minister, but the schoolmaster reads at their
worship ; they first sing psalms ; he then reads prayers, and afterwards
^a sermon from a large printed book. We were glad to meet with these
dear people, for whom we felt much love, and we had a satisfactory
religious opportunity with them ; many were affected by our visit, and
we were sensible that it was a solemn time. We believe that a wide
door is open to receive any who may hereafter come in like manner :
we have engaged to give them some books which we expect will be
forwarded to us. If I am favoured to return in safety, j must send
them more from time to time, and especially the Scripture Reading
Lessons, when they are translated into German.

414 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
In the evening we proceeded about eight versts to Zurichthal, a
colony of upwards of seventy families, and were conducted to the house
of Wiihelm Giinthner, a steady valuable man, who was very kind to
us ; he, and Several more, accompanied us in an evening walk through
the Colonies. ' These people seem, on the whole, getting forward very
well, though not in the same style as the Mennonites, who are Certainly
the flower of the flock. To-morrow being first-day, we agreed to sjt
with them during their worship.
Sixth Month 13th. — A considerable number of the colonists assem
bled this morning. They have no pastor, but we were glad to find
that here, as well as at Heirorunn, they are in the constant practice
of meeting for divine worship on first-days. Most of them had Bibles
or prayer books. We sat with our minds retired under a feeling of
love and sweetness, whilst they went through their usual routine, the
schoolmaster reading their service; and we afterwards endeavoured
to convey a few words to them, but were poorly off for an interpreter, as
they only speak German ; we were, however, glad of this opportunity,
and I believe the people were strengthened and encouraged. We
took an affectionate leave of them, and set off for two colonies on the
other side of Karasan Bazar. At the first of these, Rosenthal; the
settlers are Roman Catholics ; there are sixty-two. families, they have
been established here about fifteen years. The mayor, who lives at
the next protestant colony, Neusatz, but was then at Rosenthal, re
ceived us very kindly, and immediately had his horses brought out, to
accompany us to Neusatz. The pastures are luxuriant, there are fine
crops of peas, corn, &c, and oak and other trees; we have seen
nothing before like this, in the Crimea. The mayor took us to his
father's house, where we had a cordial reception. They readily acceded
to our proposal of having a meeting with them to-morrow, and one of
the colonists, who speaks French, is to interpret for us.
14th. — My mind was exceedingly low this morning. Friedensthal
being only a verst from hence, and the colonists there being also pro
testants, they came to the meeting here. Most of them are Lutherans,
but some of the reformed religion, and our interpreter was one of them.
There are thirty-four families here, and twenty-six at Friedensthal ; they
have no pastor, but the schoolmaster reads. They began, as usual,
by singing a psalm. There was a solemn pause afterwards, and Stephen
then rose and addressed them. The intepreter performed exceedingly
well. I also thought it right to say a few sentences. We were both
glad of this opportunity, with which the people seemed much satisfied,
and I believe many were comforted in hearing the truths of the Gospel.
We walked over to the school at Friedensthal, and heard several of the
children read.
They are in great want of elementary books. We regretted, that at

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 415
Rosenthal, there is a liqudur shop, established by government ; from
our observation, however, the people seem sober, and their cottages
appear comfortable. On returning to the house of our kind friend, we
had much interesting conversation through the Frenchman who dined
with us. After taking au affectionate leave, we set off for the Roman
Catholic village of Rosenthal, where a meeting had been appointed at
two o'clock ; the mayor accompanied us. Soon after our arrival, the
bell was rung to collect the people, and a great number assembled in
their place of worship. They had neither priest nor schoolmaster, and
began by singing. We felt the power of, truth, and gospel love, rising
sweetly into dominion. Just before the singing closed, one of them
came forward to a rope which was hung through the ceiling, and rang
the bell for some minutes, to give notice that service was about to
begin : we then had a little pause, and Stephen soon rose and spoke at
considerable length, in a very satisfactory manner. I afterwards had
something to communicate. The people were very attentive and
respectful, and I believe felt this visit exceedingly kind and refreshing
to their spirits. The few pauses which we had were very solemn and
sweet. We left them some tracts, and parted in much love, humbly
thankful that our steps had been directed through these colonies, where
a channel is now open for further communication.
We arrived at Simferopol between seven and eight. One of the
Malakans called to say, that five of their brethren, from the government
of Tambov, were come to look at some land which had been offered to
them to settle upon as colonists. They are deputed on behalf of nearly
two hundred families.
Sixth Month 15th. — We went to dine with the Governor at his
country seat, about ten versts off. We were very kindly received by
himself and his wife, and had an interesting visit. This part of the
Crimea is very beautiful. In returning to Simferopol, we stopped to
pay a visit to the widow of the celebrated naturalist, Professor Pallas.
She is a very affable, agreeable person, and lives in a nice small house,
in a large garden, which she takes great delight in cultivating, and has
made a delightful place of what was before a waste. She has a great
regard for the English, and we were immediately quite sociable. Her
husband's affairs were involved at the time of his death, but the Em
peror inquired into the circumstances, gave twelve thousand roubles to
pay his debts, and settled three thousand roubles a year upon her, saying
that her husband had done honour to Russia, and that the widow of
such a man merited attention. We could not get away without taking
a cup of tea with her, and she had it set out in the garden. We reached
Simferopol in time for a meeting, which we had appointed with the
Malakans at six o'clock ; and we had an empty room, in our miserable
inn, fitted up with benches and boards for the purpose. Our friend,

416 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
the secretary, kindly sat with us, and acted as interpreter. I believe
he performed his part in the best way he could, and that our gracious
Master made up any deficiency which there might be. We were favoured
with a sweet feeling of divine good, which spoke a language far beyond
words. We first put several questions to the deputies from Tambov,
with a view to' ascertain whether they agreed in sentiment with the
Malakans here, and received full satisfaction on this point. We also
wished to have some -idea of their numbers. They think, that in the
" Gofesiment of Tambov, there maybe about five hundred families,
eithep'free or belonging to the crown, but they have reason to believe
pthat a great many more among the peasants belonging to the different
'^^gnAu/af have embraced their principles. Those who are free, have
viiherfj)r^o exercise their worship ; but it is quite plain, that, next to
\Jivij»e interposition, they owe this indulgence to the Emperor. There
are very few in Tambov of the sentiments of the poor deluded Duho
bortsi of the Moloshnia, or the Sabbatarians. The discipline of these
people appears the same as the Malakans; they deal tenderly with
offenders, but if these are irreclaimable they are disowned. About one
half of the adults among them can read, and they deem it a duty to
have their children taught. They correspond with one another, as a
means of mutual encouragement. On assembling for divine worship,
they pray, sing psalms, and read the Scriptures. Those who « think
themselves inspired,' speak in their meetings, but they have no fixed
preachers. They take care of one another, and when differences arise,
they are settled among themselves, and are never taken to the tribunals.
On the wiole it. appeared that their religious sentiments were quite in
accordance with those of the Malakans of Simferopol.
There was not the least disposition to beg for assistance ; all they
asked was for protection in the exercise of their religion, and an oppor
tunity to maintain themselves by honest industry. We find that the
Emperor has had it in .contemplation to settle colonies of them on the
unappropriated lands, of which there are some thousand square miles
in Russia ; and maps of these lands have been laid down and num
bered. We must bring the whole matter before the Emperor, through
Prince A. Galitzin and Papof, when we reach Odessa.
We had now procured as much information as we could obtain
through this channel, and the precious feeling of good so deepened that
I longed for us all to sit under it ; but this kind of service was new to
the secretary, and he appeared a little restless at one time. The power
of Truth, however, was I believe in some degree felt even by him, and
he interpreted a good deal for Stephen, who gave them much excellent
advice ; he counselled them to endeavour, in their meetings for solemn
worship, to detach their minds from outward things, and wait in pros
tration of soul before ¦ the Lord in silence, for the renewal of their

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 417
spiritual strength. I distinctly felt that something was required of me,
and when Stephen had finished, I also addressed them, under a sense
that best help was granted, and I felt warranted to say in concluding,
' Fear not little flock, it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the
kingdom.' 0, how gracious is He with whom we have to do, and
how he furnishes strength equal to the day ! During the whole of these
communications, several of these dear people put their hands upon
their , breasts, and by their looks and manner, expressed how cordial
they felt them. The secretary informed us that they most fully united
with all that we had said, that we had expressed their own sentiments,
and that they had particularly wished for our advice on the subject of
worship. Stephen said a few words more at parting, when they all
shook hands with us, one by one, as they went but. Thus ended this
memorable opportunity. We begged the secretary to state to the
Governor what had passed this evening, which, I believe, he will faith
fully do, and. we left them under his care, requesting that their case
might be represented in the first communication to Petersburg. We
informed him that we intended to write also ourselves. Thus, after a
deep exercise of faith and patience, is the work for which we have been
sent to this empire, developing. We left a number of tracts, in Ger
man, which were the last we had, and after some further conversation
with the secretary, he took an affectionate leave of us.
. Sixth Month 16th. — We left Simferopol about half past five, but just
before we set off, one of the Malakans, a nice old man, brought us two
loaves of bread, as a mark of their love. Stephen at first refused them,
as we were already provided, but the poor old man seemed to take it
to heart, and we accepted them ; he made many significant signs ex
pressive of his love, and held us by the hand. Sobieski said that he
begged to ride a verst or two with us, in order to have a few minutes
more of our company, and we accordingly took him up ; he was very
tender and contrited, and it was plain that he deeply felt the separation.
We reached Perecop in the evening, and were allowed to have the
rooms which we had before occupied, though the master of the house
was from home.
11th.— We visited the prison and military hospital, which is all that
is to be seen in this little place, and then set out for Cherson. On our
approach to Bereslaf, we had to cross the Dnieper, and the ferry boat
being absent, we engaged a vessel to take us over. The setting sun
was beautifully reflected upon the extensive surface of this great river,
which is here nearly five miles wide : it was late before we arrived at
the town, where we found the lodging-house was so poor that, as we
have often done before, we slept in the carriage.
The next day we reached Cherson, a very large place, where we
visited many of the institutions. There is no classification in the prison,
Vol. I. oi

418 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
but in other respects it is one of the best we have seen in Russia. They
are about to build a new one, and the Governor was so much interested
with the plan from London, that -we presented him with it. The
Governor of Nicolief is his friend, and they will study it together, which
will answer a double purpose : we had much conversation which I
trust will be useful. The prison for the condemned was interesting,
because here we found the first attempt at classification.
We heard, upon inquiry, that orders had been received for the intro
duction of the Holy Scriptures at the District School, but they are only
read there once a week.
We went to visit the spot where the remains of John Howard were
interred ; it . is about five or six versts from Cherson, on an old open
steppe near the Countess Polotska's garden. The monument is a sim
ple pyramid built of stone ; on one side of the pedestal I could just
make out the name of Howard. These three appropriate Latin words
have been inscribed by the hand of some visitor, < Propter alios vixit.'
Within a few yards of this place, an Englishman has erected a monu
ment to the memory of his son, exactly similar to Howard's ;-it is also
without any inscription, which I consider extremely indelicate ; how
ever j the upper part of it had fallen down, and although it has been
built up again, it is done in so rough a manner that it may be easily
distinguished from that of the real philanthropist.
Our friend, the mayor, knew John Howard personally, and was at
Cherson at the time of his death. On our return, we stopped to view
the place where, by order of the Emperor, a new monument is about
to be raised to the memory of this good man, and opposite the monu
ment, the new prison is to be erected.
The military schools here contain about eight hundred boys ; three
months since, they were put upon our system of mutual instruction, and
it was really surprising to see the state of order in which we found them.
They are greatly in want of reading lessons, and I left with them the
first fifteen sheets which we' have received from Petersburg.- A fine
young man, a lieutenant of engineers, who is the inspector of the classes,
showed so much joy in his countenance when I produced them, that I
was quite delighted with him ; he possesses much delicate feeling, and
though he said but little, I could see that it was just the thing he
wanted. I promised to use my influence to get him supplied with the
rest as quickly as possible. I believe this visit encouraged them very
much. My mind has been a little comforted with some feeling of the love
of God, and I have been sweetly in spirit with my dear child, my
beloved, aged mother, &c.
We arrived at Nicolief on the evening of the twentieth. The Go
vernor, Admiral Greig, received us very kindly,' anti readily offered us

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 419
every assistance ; he is an Englishman, and an excellent character, and
I was glad to become acquainted with him. We visited some of the
public institutions, and dined with him at his country seat, where we
met several agreeable persons, and had much conversation on the
great truths of religion ; there was a ready entrance, and one lady who
appeared in a tender state of mind, remarked- it was the first time in
her life that any one had spoken to her in that way ; she was affected
and comforted ; her husband also was very kind ; they reside at
Odessa, and pressed us to make their house our home when we went
there, telling us there was no comfortable inn ; but we have been so used
to campaigning that we have no fear about finding tolerable quarters.
Sixth Month 22nd  We succeeded in discovering some of the per
sons alluded to by the Malakans of Ekaterinoslav, and after a long
conference with them, came to the conclusion that the few here were
originally Duhobortsi; they resemble the Sabbatarians in abstaining
from swine's flesh, but they are nearer the Malakans in acknowledging
the authenticity of the Scriptures and the divinity of our Lord. We
hope that a great many are beginning to emerge from the errors of the
Duhobortsi, and we learnt from those with whom we -conversed, that
the. actual practice of these people was in some instances different from
what they told us; they gave us also this valuable information, that
many at the Moloshnia read the Scriptures privately, and teach their
children to read them.
I drew a plan on paper for arranging the first room in the
military school, upon the British system, and was glad to find that it
would answer well for two hundred and thirty-four children. I took
it with me to the Admiral, who was very much pleased, and purposes
to send two young men to Kiov to learn the plan. We left Nicolief in
the afternoon, and reached Odessa the following day ; we passed a
great deal of uncultivated steppe, and saw a large herd of horses ; So
bieski says., that one person alone owns four thousand.
' Odessa is quite a new place, for in 1791 there was not a house here ;
now there are forty thousand inhabitants, and it is a port of great con
sequence ; the quantity of corn exported is prodigious."
Amongst the letters which William Allen found on his arrival, was
one from an excellent and benevolent person in Russia, who says —
" I confess, candidly, that I have little hope for all that is benevolent
in society ; it is very difficult to shape in a body all those servants of
the world, and bring them to work against the interest of their master,
the prince of the world ; they are all divided when called to the vineyard
of the Lord, but of one spirit and heart for all that concerns their own
self." In reference to this paragraph, W. Allen says —
" There is, unquestionably, a great deal of truth in this, but if we

420 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
had suffered ourselves to be discouraged by such considerations, how
many institutions, which are now conferring most extensive benefits on
mankind,, in England and elsewhere, would either never have existed,
or have fallen to the ground."
"Sixth Month 25th. — Our friend Fadeev, of Ekaterinoslav, has sent
us a packet, containing a sensible and important letter on the subject
of the Duhobortsi, and also a translation of the principles of the
Malakans ; it is excellent, and fully justifies all that I , have written of
them before.
Stephen has found a nice young man at the posf-office, a member
of the Philanthropic Society, at Petersburg, who tells him that the
' Thoughts on the Importance of Religion ' is translated into Russ.
There is some alarm at the quarantine to-day, as two men who were
landed there from Constantinople, died this morning.
26th. — We went to dine with Count Langeron, the Governor. I was
pleased to meet General Inzoff, who sat next to me at dinner. He is
the person to whom Contineas looks as his successor in the care Of
the colonies, and, as far as we could judge, seems very suitable for
the office.
We find the alarm was not groundless, as the ship in which the two
men died, has the plague on board. It is a large French vessel, and
just touched at Constantinople, where some of the sailors made some
purchases. The Governor says that he regularly has advice^ from thence
of the health of the place, and that at present it is remarkably free from
the disorder,- though it always exists there more or less. ,
21th. — We received a packet from the Bible Office, Petersburg,
with the continuation of the sheets of Scripture Lessons, sixteen to
thirty. We also received an interesting letter from M. M. Toutschkoff,
mentioned at page 388, and a kind one from Admiral Greig, enclosing
my plans for the care of the poor, schools, &c, with which he is much
pleased, and has had them copied ; he says he has already acted upon
my suggestion, and has taken measures to send four young men to
Kiov to learn the school system. ,
28th. — We went to the Lyceum de Richlieu, where there are one
hundred and thirty boys under the care of the Abbe Nicolai. I reminded
him of the vast importance of moulding the minds of youth to morality
and virtue, for on them were placed our hopes for the generation which
is to follow us ; but it seems that a literary education is the supreme
object here. The boys who have distinguished themselves in the week,
dine with the Governor on first-day ; all the pupils have little separate
apartments.* " William Allen was strdngly impressed with the advantages of this plan ; he-considered
it calculated to lead to very favourable results, and in adopting a similar arrangement for a
certain number of boys, whom he received as boarders at his manual labour school, at Lind-

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 421
There is a " Gymnase des Demoiselles,' which is supported by the
towp, where eighty girls are taught. We were much pleased with this
school, as the education of the poor girls in Russia is at present almost
totally neglected."
Several of the succeeding days were much occupied in visiting the
various institutions at Odessa. They also went to see the Quarantine
Station. William Allen says —
" In riding there I felt calm and resigned in the prospect of going
into parts infested with the plague, with something of a sweet con
fidence, that if I were even suffered thus to fall, it would be in perform
ing what I feel to be a duty, and I have a humble confidence that, in
that case, my dear Master would take me to himself. I have often
a good deal to bear up against, but am at times helped with secret
support. We visited the school for Greeks, which is in part kept up by volun
tary contributions among the Greek merchants ; they are determined to
adopt the British system, and three Greeks called upon us this evening.
I find that there are difficulties in the way of introducing it into the
Greek islands, under the Turks, who, for want of sufficiently under
standing it, are afraid of its encouraging a military disposition ; but we
must get the plan explained to the Greek Patriarch of Constantinople,
who is represented to us as a well informed person. These Greeks
advise us to go by land from Corinth to Patras, which they say is a
high road, and thence by boat to Zante, where there is a good place for
Quarantine ; they are to give us the names of some serious people in
Greece. They are eager to translate the Scripture Lessons into Greek,
and if we find that it is not already in hand in tbe Greek islands, they
engage to do it themselves. This was a most interesting conference.
After they left us, we went to pay a visit to James Pennel, a young man
from Exeter, who attends the meetings of Friends. After some conver
sation we settled down in silence. Stephen and I each had something
to communicate, and we were comforted together.
Seventh Month 1st. — We attended, by invitation, the meeting of the
.Committee of the Bible Society. There were more than twenty present,
and though we could not understand their language, we were comforted.
At the head of the table sat the Archimandrite Theophilus, dressed in
the costume of the Greek church, and by him General Inzoff, a very
nice man, and the colleague of Contineas in the direction of the colo
nies. Among the company were two priests, and several persons with
orders ; also a deputation of boys from the external school at the Lyceum,
who have raised a subscription and formed a society among themselves.
field, in Sussex, he mentioned the Lyceum de Richlieu, at Odessa, as having afforded an
instructive example on this point, and one which he often thought, if opportunity offered,
he should like to follow.

422 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE . 1819.
They have regularly appointedJa secretary and treasurer, and when they
meet, one of the committee always sits with them. It was truly a delightful
sight, and particularly as the Abbe Nipolai, who is at the head of the
institution, is opposed to the Bible cause, and will not suffer those who
are in the internal school, over whom he has full control, to be members
of this juvenile association, though many of the children wish for it.
While we were present, however, a subscription was received, which
had been forwarded by their parents expressly on their behalf.
We find that the Jesuitical spirit is so strong-here, that a priest in one
of the neighbouring Roman Catholic colonies, collected the Bibles and
some books on religious subjects, which belonged to the people, and
burnt them iri the middle of the place; ^ There was laid on the table of
the committee room the first parcel of the Russian Testaments, as far
as the four gospels. After the committee, we gratified ourselves by
taking particular notice of our juvenile friends, and contributing
towards their fund. '
The Archimandrite who lives in apartments at the Lyceum, invited
us to come and take tea with him, which we did. General Inzoff and
his aid-de-camp, a Christian Turk, a man oF great respectability and
consequence, who is a member of the committee, with several others,
were also of the party. " It was a deeply interesting evening. Divine
truth was clearly set forth, and they seemed quite prepared for it. They
acknowledged the influence of the Holy Spirit, and the propriety of
waiting in silence for his teaching. The Archimandrite said, that when
we come to know Christ to -he to us the living substance, outward
forms were unnecessary, and that he considered them only of use to
bring to the substance. Much sweetness was to be felt throughout'
this long conversation, which I believe, most, if not all, will remember
as long as they live. Before we separated, the Archimandrite himself,
requested that we might sit a little in silence, which we did, and there
was a precious solemnity, the Lord himself, I humbly trust, by his
Spirit, being in the midst of us. We took an affectionate leave, receiv
ing a hearty salutation from the Archimandrite, the general* and the
secretary. Seventh Month 2nd— ^The inspector, Flouke, called and took us to
see the wife of Volkof, the commandant of Moscow. She had evidently
heard of our visit to the Bible committee yesterday, and strongly con
demned the Juvenile Bible Association. She seemed also to disapprove
of the Bible in schools. I remarked to her, that it was rather curious
that objections should be made to a book containing the purest system
of knowledge, when none was made to pagan authors, such as Ovid
and Horace, whose writings contained what was injurious to morals.
1th. — We went to General Inzoff's, and had a short, but very agree
able interview with him. We endeavoured to secure his friendship for

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 423
the poor Malakans, in which we think we succeeded. He parted with
us very affectionately."
Soon afterwards William Allen and Stephen Grellet went on board
the Lord Cathcart, a vessel of about seven hundred tons burden, to
proceed to Constantinople. W. A. says —
" I was glad to leave Odessa, though well satisfied in having been
there. We have prepared our report to the Emperor, and look back
upon our labours in Russia with much peace."
Amongst the subjects alluded to in this report, is the following useful
hint : —
" In visiting some of the libraries in the universities and gymnasia,
we were particularly struck with the importance of a judicious selection
of books. We deem the writings of Voltaire and the French philoso
phers, extremely dangerous in the hands of inexperienced youth, and
even some of the classical authors contain sentiments, and excite ideas,
calculated to favour the natural corruption of fhe human heart. With
respect to the classics, we think that those editions only should be used,
wherein care has been taken to leave out objectionable passages."
William Allen often keenly felt his separation from those whom he
loved, and with whom he was accustomed to mingle in religious fellow
ship, and he writes —
" Gut off from all, I have no other comfort but that which I am
graciously favoured to feel internally, and which is not withheld, — at
least, such a portion is granted as keeps me from sinking ; but it is a
sifting time. We hear that the plague is very hot in a Turkish frigate,
at Constantinople, and in two other vessels, so- that the prospect is
solemn in going to such a place.
About five o'clock the captain arrived, but previously, Captain
Brown, of the Resignation, of Scarborough, came on board ; we soon
found that he was a solid agreeable man, that his owners were the
Tindalls, of Scarborough, and that he had on board James Tindall, the
brother of my friend William Tindall, of London ; we regretted that
we did not know of it before ; however, the captain hailed the vessel,
and in about half an hour James came on board. We were refreshed
with some serious conversation together, and parted in love, giving
him a volume of Friends' tracts."
W. A. was, in several instances, called upon for the exercise of his
medical skill, and during the voyage he prescribed for three of the crew
who were poorly, and who appeared materially to benefit by his treat
ment of them.
On first-day he mentions having felt a good deal on account of the
poor sailors on board, and his wish that way might open to assemble
them for reading, &c. Stephen Grellet was poorly, and William Allen
felt some discouragement, but at length he says —

424 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
"I told the Captain that we wished td see such of his men together
as could be spared and were inclined for it, in order to read a few
chapters to them and have a pause afterward. To this he readily agreed,
and in a few minutes the greater part of them were assembled on the
quarter-deck; I was glad to see one of my- poor patients come up and
join the company; they all behaved with great respect and propriety.
I briefly explained 'to them the objeet of our meeting, and then read
the fifth and sixth chapters of Matthew, and the first of John. They
were very quiet, and after a pause I was led to address them at some
length ; Stephen (who was able to be present) said he was glad of this
opportunity, and I felt peace and satisfaction. I am often'very low, but
have a humble confidence in the all-preserving arm of the Lord. I feel
that I have no other trust.
Seventh Month 12th. — We can distinctly see the light-house on the
northern point of the opening between the hills at the mouth of the
Bosphorus; their ever varying form contributes- much to the beauty of
the scene. In the afternoon we were so close to the coast of Asia, that
we could distinctly see the rocks, trees, grass, &c. I thought of that
passage in which Paul speaks of ' the trouble which came to us in
Asia.' We are now approaching the scene of the Apostle's labours. .
The Bosphorus is about one mile and a half broad. The hills on
each side, rising from three hundred to eight hundred feet, undulate
beautifully, and the views are very fine. The strong current ¦ which
always sets this way, together with, a fair wind, hurried us rapidly
along, and at half-past six, we anchored in the Bay of Constantinople,
opposite the palace. The Bay, is about two miles and a half broad, and
is almost surrounded by hills, on which are numerous houses inter
mixed with trees. There are many stone buildings with domes, which
I suppose are mosques, and there are also a great many minarets,
which^are plain tall pillars, with a gallery round the top, where a person
goes at certain hours to call ' the faithful' to prayers... On the opposite
side is Scutari, which seems almost as large as Constantinople, and is
situated on the side of several hills ; here also, trees are interspersed
among the houses, which -are generally of wood, about two or three
stories high ; they are covered with pan-tiles, and form a beautiful
picture from the water; but on going into the gloomy, filthy streets of
Constantinople the contrast is indeed great. The plague is beginning
to be very active, so that we must use great caution, and have determined
to sleep on board the vessel to-night, in order that we may make full
inquiry about our lodging place.
Second Month 13th. — After breakfast the captain had his boat out,
and accompanied us on shore. The streets are so narrow, and the
upper stories overhang so much, that in some places the inhabitants
might easily shake hands with each other out of,th.e windows. We

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 425
went to the counting-house of Niven Kerr and Company,' to inquire
for our letters ; amongst them was one from William Forster, jun.,
addressed to Stephen, with a copy of the Minutes of the Yearly Meet
ing of men and women Friends, expressive of their unity and sympathy
with us. This was very cordial and reviving, and came just in the
right time, when we are exposed to peril, and have to strive to bear
up under our-burdens. This journey is a constant exercise of faith to
us both.
I was rejoiced to find a large box of books arrived from London,
and also one from Dr. Naudi, of Malta, containing a supply of Greek
Testaments, &c.
We walked about a mile and'a half to Pera, at the head of the Bay,
to call on Thomas Nixon Black, who was not at home ; we then con
cluded to deliver our letters of recommendation to our Ambassador,
Sir Robert Liston, who resides at the palace not far distant ; one of the
letters was from N. Vansittart, and the other from Lord Cathcart. We
soon obtained admission, and after a little conversation respecting who
we were, our objects, the inns here, &c, he told us there was only one
he could recommend, and kindly added* that if we were not suited to
our minds, we should be quite Welcome to apartments with him. He
pressed us to dine with hjm at five o'clock, and we accepted his invi
tation. We then took leave and went to the principal Dragoman of the
Sultan, the Ambassador sending a person with us to show us the way,
and a Janissary to keep the people from crowding us. The Dragoman
speaks many languages, and English among the rest ; he received us
in a very affable manner, and gave free permission for our baggage to
be passed untouched, on the faith of the Ambassador. At length we
met J. N. Black, a man of mild and very pleasing manners, and on
conversing with him about the inn, &c;, he said there was some risk in
our going there, and generously offered us apartments in his own house,
on the hill very near Sir R. Liston's. Never did I so deeply feel hospi
tality cordial, as upon this occasion, and we gladly accepted his offer.
After some toil in going for our baggage, &c, we at length arrived at
our quarters, and thoroughly enjoyed our comfortable chambers, with
good accommodation for washing, and a spacious sitting room ad
joining. We went to the ambassador's to dinner, and were most kindly
received. Lady Liston was very affable and attentive, and I had much
interesting conversation with Sir Robert ; when he invited us to dine
- with him again to-morrow, his lady added,- ' Come every day whilst
you stay, and walk in the grounds whenever you like.' Thus is way
made for us from place to place. We met several persons at dinner,
amongst whom was the consul's wife from Adrianople and a clergyman
of the name of Connor, who, I believe, is a missionary, a friend of

426 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
Josiah Pratt's; he came from a place at some distance on purpose to
see us, and accompanied us to Our lodgings, when our host permitted
fiim to sleep on a sofa, without going to the inn.
Seventh Month 14th. — We again went to dine with Sir Robert Lis-'
ton, who had invited the head Dragoman of the Sultan to meet us, and
also his son-in-law, whose, name is Shoobert; they are Roman Catholics
and not Turks. The latter seemed much struck with the system of the.
British and Foreign School Society, and we are to give him a Manual.
He has engaged to accompany us to the prison to-morrow:
15th. — After breakfast we retired to our own room, read our .chapter,
and then sat some time in silence, when we were favoured with our
blessed Master's peace. Though in the midst of danger, I have no
doubt of being in the way of my duty. O, what a favour! for if there
had been doubts now, what should I do ? The Dragoman and Shoo
bert came here, and thankfully received some books and tracts.
Shoobert seems very zealous for the plan of education. He says there
is no plague in the prison, and having obtained leave of the Bashaw,
he accompanied us to visit it. We Wept through a large burying
ground, where there seems scarcely room for another grave. A great
number of the upright stone slabs have a carved turban at the top, the
form of which varies according to the class of the deceased; those for
women are plain. They bury the body just under the surface, and
without a coffin, placing only some loose boards over . the remains.
This, of course, renders the place very offensive, and occasionally the
effect extends to a considerable distance.
There was not the least classification in the prison, which is ex
tremely filthy. One of the temporary prisons was, however, very
clean, I suppose in consequence of the fear of the plague. There are
about forty of these in different parts, mostly on the same plan.
We were told that a Greek merchant, who supports a school in the
island of Paros, wished to see us, and we accordingly waited upon him
with a copy of the Manual. He seems to be"a sedate, clever, benevo
lent person ; there was another Greek merchant present, who appeared
much interested in religious conversation. We explained our system
of schools, and I have no doubt of their hearty co-operation in whatever
may be attempted of the kind in the islands. We were not a little
satisfied with this interview.
Seventh Month 16th. — After breakfast, Sir R. Liston and his lady
sent for us to go with them in their boat to Beeyuk-teri, the residence
of all the diplomatic characters here, except Sir Robert Liston. It is
about fourteen miles hence ; we were rowed "by seven Turks, each- with
a pair of oars, and soon came to Leander's Tower, from which one of
the views of Constantinople, as exhibited in the Panorama, is taken.
The course of the Bosphorus is so winding, that we seemed passing

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEBT. 427
through a succession of beautiful lakes, and the prospects, on each side,
were exceedingly fine. Sir Robert took us to the different ambassadors,
who received us very kindly. When Baron Strogonof, the Russian
Ambassador, had read Prince A. Galitzin's letter, he said that the Prince
had desired him to show us every imaginable attention, and he offered
us all the assistance in his power. Refreshments were set out for us at
the Spanish Ambassador's. We had much conversation with his wife,
and were struck with the soundness of her remarks. Here we were
joined by the Austrian and Neapolitan Ministers, the latter, Count Ludof,
seems a sensible agreeable man ; I was glad to find that he was favourable
to schools, and he says they are preparing to establish one at Naples.
Ihad also some talk with the Austrian Minister, who thinks our plan
would be very useful in several places in his country. We thought
this a very important opportunity.
Sir Robert proposed our just landing at the Asiatic side, which we
did, and walked about a little; the soil appears to be- very good, and
there is a rich bottom of the smallest-leaved clover I have ever seen.
Our rowers were fine stout men, but I pitied them, as during the fast
of Ramazan the Turks must neither eat nor drink till sunset. Being
aided by the current, we got back about five, and dined at the palace,
where we were treated with the utmost kindness. In the cool of the
evening we walked in the beautiful gardens, where I explained the
business and progress of the British and Foreign School Society to
James Connor, who is sent out by the Church Missionary Society,
and to a fine young man named Page, who- is a draughtsman, and
accompanies an English gentleman of fortune on his travels.
We went afterwards to the Greek merchant's, and had farther religious
conversation, with the same persons as before. The subject of schools
seems now to be left in very good train.
Seventh Month 18th. — First-day. We retired after breakfast for the
purpose of worship, when I felt much peace and tranquillity of mind ; I
spent most of the day in my own room, except at meals.
19th. — I had a letter by the Russian post from the Princess
Mestchersky, in which she says that the ladies at Tver are beginning to
work, the plan having been sent to Petersburg and approved. I went
over to Lady Liston, to put her voltaic batteries in order. She and Sir
Robert have been so exceedingly kind to us, that I feel it a duty to do
what I can to gratify them, and I have spent the morning in fresh
cementing the cells, &c, and in preparing for some experiments to
morrow, when they are to have several of the Foreign Ministers to
dinner. To-day we were but a small party, and had a great deal of
agreeable conversation.
Seventh Month 20th. — Was early at Sir Robert Liston's, when I
arranged the three troughs, made hydrogen and oxygen, &c, and

428 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
prepared for the exhibition this evening. Campbell, a young man who
is a visitor there, was very clever in assisting. At dinner we had the
Prussian Minister, the Austriah Secretary, &c, &c. The troughs acted
admirably, and we burnt charcoal with great splendour, fired gun
powder, and made other experiments. The wife of the Spanish Min
ister, Jobert, was there, and was much. pleased to hear that a parcel Of
books had been sent to her.
22nd. — Our kind friend Black, has given us several letters of recom
mendation. I have been packing up my things and preparing to set
off, and have been humbled in reflecting how our merciful. Saviour
always gives strength and spirits and courage, equal to the day, and
just when they are most wanted. He never fails. The kindness of
Sir Robert Liston, now advanced in life, has been truly paternal. Lady
Listoh,' also, from our first meeting her, has treated' us with marked
kindness and attention. We called to take leave of them, and Sir
Robert gave us seven letters of recommendation-, besides one' general
one. Moore, one of the young men from T. M, Black's, is going in
the same vessel with us to Smyrna, also the Consul of Adrianople and
his wife. We got off about four o'clock.
23rd. — It is excessively hot and. we are quite becalmed.. In the
afternoon I read a great deal in the Bible.
25th.~—I read the Bible most of this morning'; while by myself,
leaning over the head of the vessel, and Dbserving the wayes breaking
against the ship, a sweet serenit-y covered my mind, and I was enabled
to pray mentally for the preservation of my dear child, my precious
aged mother, my dear brothers, and others, under sbmewhat of a
heavenly feeling and confidence.1 In the afternoon I was tendered in
reading this passage in the beautiful prayer of Solomon at the dedication
of the Temple, <Blessed be the Lord, there hath not failed one word of
all his good promise.' No, His faithfulness endureth for ever, and the
want of faithfulness on our part is the cause of all our miseries. Re
member this, O my soul!
Seventh Month 26th.-^We are in the Gulf of Smyrna ; as we advance,
the city of Smyrna appears on the right hand, in a fine bay, surrounded
by irregular hills. We came to an anchor between one and two -o'clock.
I was glad to find by some Englishmen who came on board, that they
are now very free from the plague. The first part of the city is inha
bited by the Greeks and Turks ; the Christian, or Frank quarter, is
beyond this, and is much better. The streets are narrow, and the
houses are covered with pan-tiles like those of Constantinople. The
English Consul was not at home, but his son, the Vice-Consul, sent
his Dragoman to give orders for the release of our baggage, without
being touched by the people of the Custom House; this was a great
relief, as I was anxious about it on account of the plague, to which they

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 429
are continually exposed here,: by the arrival of persons, and goods from
Egyp^ An English merchant, named Purdie, was very kind in going with
us to an. inn which the Consul recommended; it is in a street about
two or three steps wide, but we are better off than I expected, and are
thankful in/being thus far settled. I am encouraged by what I hear of
the willingness of the Greeks and Armenians to promote the education
of their children.
¦21th. — My mind was sweetly calmed and comforted this morning ;
read in the Testament as usual. Our kindfriend John the Dragoman
brought us a present of some fine peaches from his own garden. We
went to dine with David Offley, who, was formerly a member of our
society, and some of his family were known to Stephen in America.
He is lately married to. a second wife, a young Greek of respectable
family; he has three sons with him, who appear to be nice lads; I
think this visit will not be without its use.
28th. — We were introduced by J. K. Fisher, the partner of T. N.
Black, to a very agreeable Greek Dragoman, who conducted us to the
chief person over the customs, a Turkish Prince, the Bey Effendi, who
has, a very excellent character for strict^ntegrity and great liberality of
, sentiment. He is much superior to many of the Turkish prejudices,
and takes precautions against- the plague, which the illiterate Turks
consider almost as impious ; but he- says that Mahomet has told him in
the AI Koran, that if you have to pass a wall which leans, you are at
liberty to choose your side, and need not absolutely go under it; and
with this saying of the prophet he defends himself. He invited us up
an open stair-case into a very large room, in the centre of which was
a glass of water, with three of the most beautiful tuberoses I ever saw.
Pipes were brought us of the sort generally used in this country; they
are of wood, about four feet long ; after that a cup of, coffee, and then
sherbet in cut glass bowls. The Bey had something very mild and
agreeable in his countenance, and seemed quite pleased with our visit.
There were several other Turks present.- After staying some time we
took our leave, but It is agreed that we are to see him again.
We -called upon some intelligent Greek merchants, to whom we had
letters of recommendation, and explained to them the objects of our
journey, and the, nature of the British School plan, and they seem quite
prepared to promote it. We left with them a Manual, and were well
pleased with our visit. .
We have engaged a person as servant, who speaks French, Greek,
Italian, and Turkish ; he has travelled with Lord Guildford, and is well
recommended." The few following days were chiefly devoted to the inspection of
prisons, schools, and hospitals, and by a little timely aid to some of the

430 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
prisoners, essential service was conferred upon several. There are two
schools in Smyrna ; one for three hundred boys was endowed by will,
and was under the direction of the English. It appeared that the' Scrip
tures were not read in either of the schools; this was a strong induce
ment to urge the establishment of fhe British and Foreign system, to
which some of the parties were favourable.
Seventh Month 31st. — After breakfast we set out to take leave, as
we purpose to try to get off by the boat for Scio. We staid some time
with the Bey Effendi, and afterwards heard that he was pleased with
the visit; he was much more open than before, and, expressed some
sentiments worthy of a Christian. He said in effect, that, as God is
love, and the Father of the whole human race, all mankind, ought to
love one another, as one family, and that it was with this family as with
the human body ; if one of the members was in pain, the whole suf
fered. He understands geography exceedingly well, and seeiped pleased
in showing us an Atlas printed by the Turks about ten years ago. In
the evening we had the company of an Englishman, whom we encou
raged in the Bible cause, and about half past ten at night, went on
board the boat for Scio. It was managed by two Greeks, and was
quite open. I lay for some time contemplating the "stars, which are
very beautiful in this country, and then fell asleep."

CHAPTER XIV.
1819 — 1820. — Scio — Voyage in the Archipelago — Athens — Corinth—Patras — Quarantine at
Zante — Serious Illness — Corfu — S. Grellet proceeds to Italy — W. Allen to Malta — Stats
of Education — Institutions — Voyage to Civita Vecchia — Quarantine — Rome — Florence-y1
Milan — Pass of Mount Cenis— Geneva — Paris — -Arrival at Home. '
" Eighth Month 1st, 18l9.~We lay at anchor part of the night, and
in the morning, our boatmen hoisted sail and proceeded ; but the wind
proving too strong, they ran us into a bay in English Island. There
are no trees, and there is scarcely any thing to afford shelter from the
burning sun ; but we put up our sail for a tent, brought our provision
box on shore, and boiled some water for our breakfast. Not far from
us, were some arches, where* at a remote period, a large city had evi
dently stood; some Turks, or Greeks, live in apartments at the end of
these ruins, and I was a little startled to see some of them with sabres
and large pistols stuck in their girdles. Soon after we left the place,
we heard them firing : here we were — humanly speaking — completely
in their hands ; two boats, containing more armed men, arrived ; and,
whilst I was walking about, a Turk came up from the ruins. Martini,
our servant, had disappeared, and there was no one' to interpret; but
I accosted him with frankness, and he went into our tent -and sat down

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 431
on the corner of the mattress where Stephen was lying; by this time,
another armed man Came up, and I then thought they might be some
of the banditti, mentioned to us by the Consul, who rob, and then mur
der to make all sure. I thought it right to betray no fear, and stood
close to the principal one, while he took out his cartridge, and primed
and loaded his pistol ; he then sat down and levelled it at a little stone
on a stake he had just set up-; he missed his aim, charged again, and
again missed. I did not know but we might be his next mark, and
tried to find Martini, without going too far from the tent, but in vain.
The Turks kept charging and firing for some time ; at length Martini
made his appearance, and we had some conversation through him. I
believe their object merely was to show us their feats, and to see if we
had any English pistols, which they value very much. I. told him, with
much simplicity, that we were a sort of people who never used them
at all — that we loved all mankind, without distinction of country or
religion, and wished to do them good, and that weTelt prohibited from
doing injury to any; after a good' deal mere conversation they went
away. In the evening we lay down on, our mattresses in the tent, and
I slept soundly. About four o'clock we were roused with the intelli
gence that the boatmen were getting ready, and that the Turks and
Greeks were also moving ; the wind was however too strong to admit
of our proceeding far, for having rowed out of the bay and tacked
several times, We were obliged to run into another part of the island
for shelter.' We again pitched our tent upon shore, and had to remain
stationary for several days, but we got clear of the Turks. A boat
landed with three or four coiners of false money, who carry on their
operations here, but our presence disturbed them, and in a few hours
they set sail. I found, a nice cool retreat under a -rock, by the sea shore,
where I often retired, and read a' good deal in the Bible. I'sa.w part of
a human skull and several human bones bleaching on the sand.
Eighth Month 4th  About four o'clock in the morning, the wind
having abated, we made our escape, and after running about five
hours, came in sight of the high lands of Scio. At half-past one we
arrived, but the throng of boats and people at landing was very disagree
able ; we soon found that no quarantine was necessary, and went to the
so-called inn, where, the chief business is to sell wine and spirits, but
the people were very civil. Most of the persons to whom we have
letters are out of, town.
Scio is a large island, containing about one, hundred thousand in
habitants ; there are eighty-thousand. Greeks, and they have more liberty
here than in any other part of the Turkish empire. The town is of the
same name.
5th.— ^The Consul, Guidici, called this morning, and was very civil.
He does not like the place we are in, and made us the offer of apart-

432 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
ments at his house in town. He lives, at present,, at a little distance in
the country, and, as.it seemed .to be done heartily, we accepted his
kindness. The first. person we visited was Neophite Bambas, a Greek
priest at the head of the great academy here, which, in town and country,
affords instruction to six hundred boys, and to many of them in the
higher branches. He appears to be a very amiable man, and of liberal
sentiments ; he has not only heardnof our school system, but Has aqtually ,
begun to prepare the first. lessons in spelling in common Greek, and
gave me some of the impressions. They have just received a fount of
types from England, and he has" a printing -press upon, the premises.
He seems to be just the man for me, and must be the correspondent for
this place, which is at the head of all the, Greek, Islands in the Archi-.,
pelago, for here most of the opulent Greeks reside. -
We delivered our letters, and were universally received with great
respect and attention. The Turkish Governor gave us coffee, and
offered us every assistance in his power.
I do not find that the Scriptures are used at all in the schools here,.
and, from the conversation with Bambas, having reason to hope that- he
might be induced to adppt the Russian Lessons, I determined to bring
them before him in a perfect state, as far as the New Testament part:
therefore, after supper, we began to cut up two Greek Testaments, and
to paste the texts on paper, which Occupied us till about midnight. /
Eighth Month 6th  We remained in the house all day^, incessantly
occupied in making the Lessons from the New Testament, and finished
them by about twenty minutes past twelve at night.
1th. — Having an appointment to meet Professor Bambas, we went
about three or four, miles into the country, where he has also a school,
at which an examination is to take place, and after that is over, we are
to dine with Fragkuli Rodocanaki, one of the first, merchants in this,
country. We hired three mules for the day, as the streets are so
narrow, and the roads so full of stones, that no carriage of any sort is
to be seen,— at least we have not met with any. There are upwards of
two hundred children in this school. Several of them had most in
teresting countenances, expressive of, mind and talent. The Greeks'
are a people eminently worth caring for, and wide is the fieldof useful
ness here. Our excellent friend,- Bambas, had much difficulty in the
first establishment of this school, and many prejudices to encounter,
but the good effects of.it are now so apparent, that some of its most
powerful enemies have withdrawn their opposition, and are become its
supporters: but there is-still a great deal of ignorance and bigotry,
suspicion and intrigue, among these, pepple, so that it requires much
patience 'and perseverance, in any attempt to enlighten them and do
them good ; but there are still some excellent men who are heartily bent
upon the diffusion Of light and knowledge, and at the head of them are

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 433
Professor Bambas and Fragkuli Rodocanaki. After the examination,
we went to the house of the latter, to dine with Bambas, &c. We
had a great deal of conversation upon various subjects, amongst the
rest, education, and the importance of introducing the Holy Scriptures
into the schools, for at present they have only their catechism. We
now produced the set of Greek Lessons which we had prepared for
them from the New Testament. Bambas seemed quite delighted, and
said, < Surely Divine Providence has sent you here.' He engaged to
correct the language, the translation not being a good one, and to print
them at his press. We are to give him a list of the texts for the other
two parts. Rodocanaki is the particular friend and supporter of Bambas.
He has a very extensive garden, containing a wood of orange and
lemon trees, from fifteen to twenty feet high, growing in the open ground.
At the roots they dig a wide circular place to hold water, and these
are all connected by trenches, and watered in the evening from a
reservoir, supplied from a deep well by machinery. The vines are
low, like those in the South of France ; but he has besides, lofty
trellisses, supported by pillars of rough hewn stone, about twenty feet
high. The fine large clusters of grapes hanging down, and the long
festoohs of leaves, have a very rich appearance. We endeavoured to
improve the opportunity to open their minds to the importance of edu
cation,, and pressed upon them the -necessity of employing our method
of instruction for the children of the poorest classes, most of whom are
growing up in great ignorance, though their parents are eager to have
them taught.
Eighth Month 8th  I was occupied some time in copying the texts
for all the Scripture Lessons, which I did in my letter book, in order
to have a copy for Bambas, and one for the bishop, whom we are to
see to-morrow. I felt sweet peace of mind, which I received as an
evidence that good will arise from it. We went to visit a Greek family,
with whom we staid the night, and finding that an Armenian of con
siderable influence, who lived not far distant, wished to see us, we
went accordingly. He is a sensible young man, of very good counte
nance; he speaks French well, and seemed pleased at our arrival. The
conversation turned upon religious subjects, particularly the principles
of Friends, and at parting we gave him some tracts, but he begs to
see us again.
I felt low, and could but think how contrary my present way of life
is to all my habits, and to that sweet quiet retirement which I enjoy ;
and I ain also cut off from those whom I dearly love."
In a summary account of their proceedings at Scio, William Allen
writes —
" We have had great satisfaction in our visit to this Island : we had
two'conferences with the archbishop, and full opportunity for intercourse
Vol. I. 28

434 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE ... 1819.
with some of the principal inhabitants, passing two or three nights at
their country houses. We informed them fully of our religious princi
ples, had much conversation on serious subjects, and distributed several
books, with which they seemed much pleased. We have induced
them to agree to form a school society here upOn our plan, and the
archbishop has consented to become the president. We settled it that
Bambas should go to work immediately in printing the Scripture
Lessons as a tract, and in this case, I engage to raise a subscription in
England to take some hundred copies. It would be worth coming to
Greece for these objects alone. Bambas intends to translateinto modern
Greek, and print, the 'Thoughts on the Importance of Religion,' and
other tracts which we have given him.
Pierre Corpy, a Latin Catholic, resident at Grand Cairo, has called
several times upon us. He is a serious character, and we had much
conversation with him. We gave him a good selection of Friends'
books, also a Manual, and one for Ali Pacha, the chief of that country.
In our second visit to the Armenian he entered warmly into the sub
ject of schools, and accepted, with pleasure, a copy of the Manual. He
promised to use his influence to promote education in Armenia, and
observed that we could not bestow upon his country a more substantial
service, than by introducing our system. He says that on his return
he will seek out a young man of talent, and send him to our institution
in England. This was a very important interview.
Eighth Month 14th. — We hired a boat to take us to Athens. It
has a deck, but the space under it is only from two to three feet, and
our mattresses were laid upon the ballast, but in this climate and season
there is no fear of rain, and the sun holds on his course, from morning
till night, without a cloud. Our crew consists of four men, including
the captain, and whilst we were waiting for the latter to come on
board, I saw a Turkish vessel of eight guns, which is employed to
bring African slaves from the Algerine coast. This country affords a
striking proof that, sanguinary measures on the part of a government do
not protect the community, for though, under the Turkish government,
they think little of drowning eighty or a hundred men in a night, as
they have actually done since we have been among them, yet assassi
nations are common, and, but lately, a person coming from Smyrna to
Scio was murdered by the boatmen, merely to get possession of one
hundred and fifty piastres or about five guineas.
We left the shore about half-past eleven, but these people are miser
able sailors,. and though the wind was fair for us, they thought it too
strong, and we had not sailed much more than an hour, when they
came to anchor towards the south end of the island, and here we stayed
all day. In the afternoon we took a walk to a monastery, and met
with some priests, who live there like hermits. They were very civil,

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 435
and sent a boy with us to show us where the mastic trees grow, from
which the gum is procured. This tree is peculiar to Scio, and the
villages where it is cultivated are privileged, and free from imposts by
the Turks. There are about thirty of them. We met with a peasant
who prevailed upon us to go into his little vineyard, where we sat down
under the shade of some rocks; he soon brought a dish, a bottle of
water, and two very large clusters of most excellent grapes, together
with some figs. He put the fruit in water to cool it, and I think I
hardly ever eat finer grapes. We, in return, gave him some Greek
tracts; for some of the 'English tracts have been translated and printed
at Constantinople, and Dr. Naudi has also sent us a box of Greek
Tracts and Testaments for distribution. The poor peasant cannot read,
but he says his wife can, and we gave him to understand, through
Martini, that if he came down to the beach we would give him a Tes
tament ; he accordingly accompanied us with great alacrity, running
for full three miles, without shoes or stockings, ov6r rough stones which
hurt me through my shoes. He received the Testament with the live
liest expression of gratitude, kissing Stephen's hand, and putting it to
his head. We also gave Greek tracts to two lads who came with him,
and they seemed quite pleased to receive them.
The sun has been burning hot to-day ; it is in these climates that one
feels the full force of that text, ' Like the shadow of a great rock in a
weary land.' I have bathed and had a nice swim this evening."
The want of skill in the boatmen rendered this navigation very
tedious, and great were the privations endured by the travellers, in,
their protracted voyage of eleven days from Scio to Athens. W. Allen
mentions the beauty of the constellations, and the opportunity they had
of noticing them, when they " had no other canopy than the starry
heavens :" and their little bark did not afford them protection from the
waves, which sometimes dashed in and completely drenched them.
One morning, after having anchored in a little bay, he says —
" A long boat, full of men, made its appearance ; at first it was
rather alarming, as there are pirates in these seas, who generally murder
as well as rob, and we had heard that a boat had just been stolen from
Smyrna by some of these desperate people ; we however found, through
Martini, that their object' was fishing;, we bought some fish, and they
came in very well, as our meat and eggs are gone."
At Stems, in tbe Island of Andros, they went on shore, and having
walked to a village, found that even here there was a school for
boys ; they, however, learnt that there was no copy of the Scriptures,
and accordingly left a Greek Testament, with an injunction to the
priest, that a chapter, at least, should be read to the children
whenever they assembled., Some Greek tracts were also distributed.

486 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
On the 19th of Eighth Month, William Allen writes —
" As we were passing very slowly in a dead calm, between the
Islands of Andros and Tinos, the captain saw a suspicious sail at the
entrance of the channel before us. We had been a little alarmed by a
boat, which hailed us this morning, informing him that, in that place,
they had been- fired upon last night by pirates, but being favoured by
the wind, they had escaped. With this sail there was a long row-
boat in company, full of men ; they stood just in the middle of the
passage, but' soon separated; the sail went behind some high rocks to
the right, the other to the left, as if waiting for us. I got out my tele
scope and observed them ; the captain was in a great fright and said
they were the robbers; they were still at a distance of six or seven miles
from us, but with my glass, I could distinctly see their manoeuvres. The
vessel with the sail came out again from the point of the rock, then
returned. Our boatmen ceased rowing for some time ; the vessel again
came out, as if to see what we would do, and its motions were made
with such celerity, there being scarcely a breath of wind, as to leave
no doubt that they had oars and many men. We hinted, through
JMartini, that perhaps they were not robbers, and that we might risk.it,
but all our crew united in saying, that these pirates showed no mercy,
and always murdered when they robbed. The captain Was much agi
tated, when we saw through the glass two or three more of these vessels
come out from behind the rock, and go backwards and forwards. A
small vessel was in the' distance, passing across the end of the channel,
and one of our suspicious vessels went rapidly towards it. By this time
the captain had determined to turn about and seek a harbour. in Tinos,
so we must thus lose another day ; he had been very lazy smoking his
pipe before, but now he began to pull at the oars in earnest. We had
many miles to row before we could get to a place of safety in Tinos,
and we were badly equipped and manned, so that if the suspicious
vessels had rowed after us, in all human probability, we should have been
an easy prey, but they still hovered about the point of the rock. I kept
my telescope in my hand, watching them, and at length two of them
went across to Syra, and the others returned to their lurking place. We
gradually, by mere dint of rowing, approached the corner of Tinos,
and when our men thought themselves safe, they again commenced their
smoking. In the evening we went into a harbour on the Island,
from whence they ship a great deal of marble, some of which is very
beautiful. I took a solitary walk into the interior of the country, and sat down
by a little well, surrounded by. marble ; here, with my mind retired
before the Lord, I was sweetly comforted in the spirit of prayer. Before
we started, we distributed some tracts to the people, and these being
shown to others, several were so eager for them, that they came

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 437
on board, and we gave away a good many, and also a Greek
Testament."
, The next day, in approaching the island of Zea, they encountered a
very heavy sea, and he says —
" For two or three hours our situation was awful, but my mind was
favoured with a precious degree of calm and quite. The wind at length
abated, and about eleven o'clock we got into harbour. I felt very
thankful for this deliverance.
Eighth Month 21st. — I took a walk by myself up the rocks, and
found a recess where I had a sweet time in mental prayer ; access
seemed freely granted to petition for my dear aged mother, my precious
child, and those near and dear to me, also for dear Stephen. I was
tendered to tears in the sweet feelings which then accompanied my
mind. Though low I am calm and satisfied that I am in my right place.
I often think what a comfort it would be, if, now and then, for a quarter
of an hour, I could have the company of some of those congenial
spirits in England, with whom I have been so often refreshed.
The wind being altogether unfavourable we went to the town of Zea,
which is at fhe top of a very high hill, and the distance being about
three miles, we engaged mules to take us tiiere. We found out the
British Vice-Consul, who seems an agrefdble, intelligent man. He
invited us into his house, where his wife and several other persons
received us very kindly, and brought out fruits, &c. Here I saw, for the
first time, the small grapes without stones, which, when dried, form
what we call dried currants ; they are merely a small species of grape.
We found that they had a school here for fifty children, and were
pleased with the master, who had been a pupil of Professor Bambas.
They have hot the Holy Scriptures as a school book, and we gave him
a Greek Testament with a request that he would read in it daily to the
children, to whom Stephen gave some advice. The master thankfully
received some Greek tracts for distribution. We were very glad we
had paid this visit. — The general appearance of the Greek Islands is
barren, rocky, and hilly.
Eighth Month 24th. — About three o'clock we entered the port of
Athens, and were hailed by a vessel with the inquiry if a person of the
name of Allen was on board, and the answer being given in the affir
mative, the name of Pinkerton was returned. Thus we have met at
last, though I was sorry to find that he was on the point of going off
for Constantinople : had it not been for our dilatory boatmen, we might
have been four or five days sooner, and laid all our plans together. As
soon as we had cast anchor, we were rowed in our little boat to the
ship, and here, although I had so long known and loved the character
of Dr. Pinkerton, the first inteview between us took place ; it was
between four and five o'clock before we parted. We had a long way

438 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
to ride before we reached Athens, and were very tired. Our baggage
loaded five asses and a' horse. I rode an ass with only a halter and no
stirrups. We found a sort of an inn which had been newly opened,
where we have two rooms, but no beds ; we however made use of our
mattresses : this is the eleventh night since I have undressed to go to
bed. Eighth Month 25th.— We called on the British Consul, Logethe, and
found out Gropius and Co., on whom we have a letter of credit, also
Wrench and his friend Col. Harris, who are come from Constantinople.
In the afternoon, we took a walk to see some of the ruins, and went
first to the Temple of Jupiter, in the inside of which are several stone
slabs, to the memory of some English travellers who have died here
within the last few years. We saw the lofty columns of the Parthenon,
Mars' Hill, and fhe site of the Areopagus, but it was late, and we must
visit them again. The country around seems generally barren, and full
of stones. •
26th  We called at the Consul's, where we met with a person from
the Ionian Islands, who is employed by the British Government as
superintendent of the schools. His residence is at Corfu : he, with the
Consul and some others, accompanied us to a school for seventy chil
dren, but it was the time of vacation, so we only saw the room and
some of the masters. I doubt whether more than half that number
actually attend. It was for boys only, and is a sort of grammar school
for the classics ; it is supported by the Athenian Society. I examined
some of the books used iri the school, and was grieved to find how
much the most essential point of all, in education, is neglected. They
teach Socrates,. Eusebius, Plato, and Xenophon, but not Jesus Christ:
commentaries on the Bible are taught, but not the Bible itself. There
are several little elementary schools, kept by females, and in them per
haps about four hundred may be receiving instruction, but education is
in a very neglected state here, and no one seems to know much about
it. The total number of inhabitants is said to be eight thousand, and
about six thousand of them are Greeks. We visited the prison for the
Greeks. I unpacked my trunks, and took out my plans for schools and for
the poor ; soon after Gropius came in, and I lent him some of them to
copy. He is a person of influence, and seems likely to be useful here.
He can speak English.
A young man with whom we had become acquainted in the morning,
and who resides at Adrianople, called ; he is very eager to promote
the school system, and enters into our views. We gave him some tracts.
Athens is surrounded by a low wall, in which are several little gates;
it stands in a plain, from whence rises the hill on whose summit is the
Acropolis, or citadel. In the afternoon we took a walk to visit Mars'

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 439
Hill, where the Apostle Paul preached to the Athenians. It is a mass
of rocks about one hundred and fifty feet above the plain, and below
the Acropolis, which is much higher. The Areopagus was on the same
rock. A wall runs the whole length of this rock, and that side which
looks down upon Athens is Mars' Hill. On the plain beyond, the
academy where Plato taught, is situated. We now bent our course
towards the Acropolis, which is surrounded by a high wall, and com
mands an extensive prospect. The principal ruin is that of the Temple
of Minerva, which is built of fine squared blocks of exquisitely beautiful
white marble. The fluted pillars, from sixty to seventy feet high, are
extremely grand, but I am sorry to say that some Englishmen have bar
barously defaced these beautiful remains of antiquity, which had resisted
the effects of time, and escaped the hands of barbarians for two thousand
years. Eighth Month 21th. — We called upon George Gropius, the Austrian
Consul, and had much interesting conversation on the subject of schools
and the distribution of tracts ; he seems much disposed to promote a
committee for the schools and other benevolent objects. We also called
upon a Capuchin monk, who greatly desired to see us, and had a very
satisfactory conference with him. In the afternoon Stefano Carateodori,
the young man from Adrianople, called ; he is very zealous, and says
the school plan would immediately take in the island of Hydra. The
population is estimated at twenty thousand, and he gave me the names
of some excellent persons, there. In the evening, our friend the Capuchin
monk called, and we again had an interesting interview. George Gropius
brought me a list of persons at Athens likely to unite in plans for the
public good.
28th. — We packed up our things, and having concluded to go by
land to Corinth, hired six horses and mules, three for the baggage, and
three for ourselves. , The first part of our road was over the great plain,
partly cultivated in cotton and tobacco ; we then passed through an
extensive wood of olive trees. On our arrival at Lipsine, we were
taken in at a house which contained only a single room. There is a
place parted off at one end for a horse and an ass. The inhabitants
came in to us, one after the other, and we gave them some Greek
tracts. We asked one of them, who was a priest, to read a little aloud,
for the rest to hear, and they seemed much interested ; they were
particularly thankful for a Greek Testament, which we desired that the
priest would read to them publicly, on a first-day afternoon, and he
really seemed disposed to do it. The sun is very oppressive, but I found
a shaded place among the ruins, where I revolved past scenes in my
mind. We dined on some provisions we had brought with us, and at
three o'clock mounted again to proceed to Megara, where there was

440 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
no inn, but we were kindly received by a person who it is understood
is to have something for the use of his room. A place had been built
up on the roof of thefhouse, quite open in front, and here we concluded
to sleep in our clothes upon our mattresses. We find there are two
schools here for boys, but no provision for the education of girls. We
gave our host some Greek tracts with which he seemed much pleased,
but on receiving a Greek Testament for the use of the schools, he kissed
it, and put it to his head. We were very tired, and on lying down, soon
fell into a sound sleep. We were quite exposed to any one who might
choose to come up out of the streets to see us, the only visitor however,
that we knew of, was a cat, which contrived to get at our provision
basket, and made off with the remains of our cold mutton, which was
to have served us for dinner the next day. Lhad a good deal of
refreshing sleep. On resuming our journey the following morning, we
passed over a high mountain, where there are deep declivities by the
side of the road. The views towards the Archipelago are grand indeed;
Egina was at our feet, and the other islands scattered about in all
directions. On descending, we reached the plain, beneath the^Gulf
of Lepanto, and the Gulf of Athens ; Corinth lies in this plain, and is
at the foot of a rock, or rather two rocks united together. We arrived
about seven o'clock, and had a room at the house of a Doctor, where
travellers usually go. We dined to-day on bread and the remains of a
fine piece of cheese which Lady Liston gave us at Constantinople.
Eighth Month 30th. — Theocarachi Rendi called upon us. He seems
to be one of those characters whom we are in-search of, and is one of
the principal Greeks here. We had a good deal of serious conversa
tion, as he understands French pretty well. We gave him a Greek
Testament, and some other publications. He was in a very tender
state of mind, and truly rejoiced to have met with us. He quitted us
reluctantly, and we embraced at parting, commending each other to
divine protection. He is to correspond with me, and also with Bambas,
of Scio, on the subject of schools particularly ; he seems deeply to feel
the importance of them, and says there are a few of their principal men
here, who would readily join them. We had engaged a boat to take
us to Patras, and went on board by moonlight, but after a tedious and
very hazardous voyage, the first part of the way, we concluded to go
on shore, and pursue our course by land'; we accordingly procured
mules to convey us and our baggage to Vostizza. Our course lay
near the gulf, and the mountains and rocks extend quite info the water,
so that we were sometimes elevated three or four hundred feet, with
precipices quite down to the sea. The mountain scenery is very fine ;
we met with myrtles in great quantities, which grow wild, like our
common bushes in England. We were nearly six hours in going to

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 441
Vostizza, about fifteen miles. From thence we proceeded; with fresh
mules, towards Patras, stopping for a few hours at a miserable place
on the road."
The journey was continued ; it was a tedious and difficult one; at
length, on the 3rd of Ninth Month, they reached Patras ; when W. A.
remarks —
"We sent Martini on before with the letter of introduction to Green,
the British Consul, and to inquire whether there was any accommoda
tion for travellers, and on our arrival about eleven o'clock, he met us
with the agreeable news that the Consul had found a lodging for us.
We called upon him ih the afternoon, and received visits from the
Spanish and Dutch Consuls, who seem to be agreeable men, and we
had much talk about schools, &c..,
4th. — I procured information this morning with regard to the moral
state of the place, which is deplorable in the extreme. Every thing
we meet with proves "the vast importance of what we are attempting
to do at Scio. If any one country on the face of the earth, needs a
system of universal education more than another, it is Greece. Their
state of cruel subjugation has induced habits of duplicity and lying, to
such a degree, that I am told scarcely a Greek is to be believed here,
upon his most solemn asseveration. When the Venetians held the
Ionian Islands, their avowed policy was to demoralize the people as
much as possible, and their wish being to reduce the Islands to such a
state, as not to render them desirable by any other power, they pur
posely excited quarrels among those who were rich, that they might
weaken one another, and licenses for assassination were regularly
purchased. At present, they are happily under the government of
Great Britain, and considerable ameliorations are taking place, but the
establishment. of schools, where a scriptural education is'given,is of the
utmost importance.
We dined with the Consul, and were treated with great kindness
and hospitality. We met Colonel Hemes, Petriche, the superintendent
of the schools, &c. ; we requested him to hire a boat to take us to the
island of Zante, and went on board about seven o'clock in the evening.
The moon, now at the full, rose majestically behind the high moun
tains, and a gentle breeze filled our sails ; my mind was calm and
peaceful, and I lay down and had some sleep. The next morning I
awoke sweetly refreshed and comforted. I was much encouraged by
the reflection that, however weak and feeble the poor instruments may
be, our errand is consonant with the language, ' On earth peace, good
will toward mem' We reached the shore about eleven o'clock, but
were obliged to wait till we had permission from the quarantine officers
to go to the Lazaretto, where we are to perform quarantine. We came
over at the same time with Colonel Herries, the Quartermaster General.

442 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
There 'is a sort of railing near the shore, across which, suspected
persons, as we are, may converse with those who come to see them
from the town. The principal person here, Colonel Patrick Ross, had
come down, and Colonel Hemes introduced me to him ; he was very
kind, and said that Sir Frederick Adam had been anxiously expecting
me on the subject of schools. We soon had our orders, and were
rowed across the harbour to the Lazaretto. Here Dr. Thomas, the
head of the health department, met us; nothing could exceed his kind
ness, he would not let us go into the common Lazaretto, but sent for
the keys of an old convent just behind it, which has also a garden,
and had the rooms swept out for us. He stationed a guard of soldiers,
to prevent all communication, and this is to be our prison ; fifteen days
is the term at present, but we have great reason to think that the time
will be shortened by the authorities here. We breakfast and dine with
Col. Hemes and his party, consisting of a young man of the name of
Wrench, late chaplain at Constantinople and a relation of Dr. Buxton's,
and Plato Petrides, a Greek, who speaks English. Thus far I have
seen my way clearly to accompany my dear companion, and, on many
accounts, it would have been gratifying if we could have continued
together to the end, but I now think it may be right for me to return
home through Venice, Munich, Zurich, Geneva, and France ; and he
increasingly feels it his duty to go to Malta, Sicily, Naples, Rome, &c. ;
however, we must both endeavour seriously to consider what is required
of us. On a retrospect of my long and painful journejr, I feel nothing
but peace, we have been carried along and preserved in averyremark-
able manner, though we know ourselves to be but poor, feeble instru
ments, and have nothing of our own to glory in.
Ninth Month 10th  News arrived that we were released from the
quarantine. Dr. Thomas came, and he and Col. Ross have provided
comfortable lodgings for us. We walked into the town, and called upon
Dr. Stephano, where we met with several of the inhabitants, and from
what I saw of them, I have no doubt of there being public spirit enough
here, to do a great deal for the education of the children of the poor,
upon a well organized plan. After stopping at our lodgings, we went
to dine with Col. Patrick Ross, who gave us a hearty welcome. He is
the chief in authority here ; we met a large company, amongst whom
were our quarantine party. I had much interesting conversation with
Col. R., who is exceedingly desirous of Seeing, the plan of the British
and Foreign School Society adopted here, and that it should carry the
Scripture Lessons with it, as the foundation of a good education. He
is anxious for advice on the subject of prisons, and is exactly such a
man as I could have wished to find. I am now much encouraged, and
hope that something effectual maybe done for the Ionian Islands, which
will act powerfully upon all Qreece.

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 443
Ninth Month 11th. — There was a tremendous thunder storm in the
night, but this is a fine morning. I received a note from Colonel
Herries, to inform me that Colonel Ross would be ready at ten o'clock
to accompany us to the prison and the other institutions which we
wished to see. We waited upon him accordingly, and he took us first
to their Monte Pieta, which is an establishment for lending money on
public security, upon articles brought to be pledged. We then went
to the prisons, the military and civil hospitals, and lastly to the school,
but it being vacation time the children were absent. The Scriptures
are not taught here, and there is no provision for the girls.
I find. that there is very little extreme poverty in Zante — most of the
poor have a sufficiency, and many, of them have small pieces of land ;
they depend very principally upon the produce of their vines, the fruit
of which is the small grape without stones, which we call the Zante
currants. They have also the common grapes, both white and red.
12th. — My spirits are very low. We had our chapter as usual, and
afterwards sat together in silence, when I became a little calmed. We
dined at our lodgings, andi spent the afternoon in my room.
The Governor called, and presented me with a manuscript copy of
the constitution of the Ionian Islands ; he offered to correspond with
me, and to give me information, from time to time^ of their proceedings.
13th. — We breakfasted af Dr. Thomas's, and afterwards went with
him to one of the villages at the foot of the riiountains, where we met
Colonel Ross, and all proceeded to the pitch well, a natural curiosity
at some distance. Wrench was of our party — some of us were mounted
upon mules and some -upon horses, and we first passed over a great
plain, where we found many parts under water in consequence of the
late rains. I think a system of draining would contribute much to the
healthiness of the island. We had a full view of six or seven villages at
once ; some of them contain above a thousand inhabitants, whose morals
are said to be much better than those of the people iri the towns, but
we find that a visible improvement has taken place in this respect, since
these islands have been in the hands of the English.
On arriving af the village of Litachia, we went into some of the
poorest of the houses, and in every instance, though there was little
other furniture, we found good, clean, large beds. The people are
generally industrious and saving, and very tractable, so that they are
easily led, either in a good or evil course. They seem to have good
capacities, and are quick Of comprehension, but are in almost perfect
ignorance. We proceeded, over a difficult road, to the south-east end
of the island, where the pitch-well is situated in a marsh, about a
quarter of a mile from the sea; this well is said to be mentioned by
Herodotus. It is about six feet in diameter, is circular, and built up

444 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
to the surface with rough hewn stones. The bitumen appearing justlike
tar, rises to within about eight inches of the surface of the water, which
is beautifully transparent, and is covered with a slight iridescent film.
I could discover nothing in the taste, but a slight impregnation of tar.
The spring rising up through the tar occasions it to be full of large
bubbles. Dr. Thomas' had two new stone bottle brought, one of which
was filled with the water, the other with fhe bitumen, the latter was
very thick. The water of the well was overflowing. The depth of the
bitumen- is said to be three feet ; in some years it has yielded sixty
barrels. I found afterwards that there is another well, similar to this,
about a quarter of a mile distant, and probably there are some subter
raneous branches which go into the sea, for I am told that the water is,
at times, covered to some distance from the shore, with an iridescent
film. On our return, the views of the sea, with the little islands in it,
were very fine ; part of our road was like going up and, down a broken
stone stair case. We stopped to see some large masses of crystallized
sulphate of lime,, and reached our lodgings a little after four ; but I was
cruelly tired. We rested a little, and then went to dine with Col. Ross,
where we spent a very agreeable evening. His wife is a sensible, in
teresting person.
Ninth Month 14th. — I feel the effects of yesterday's exertions. Prince
Cornuto called, and was very land and civil. He is an old man, and
seems to have much influence, he speaks French, but Italian is the
most coirimon language here, next to Greek. We attended. the Bible
committee, and I was glad we were there, as a question arose respect
ing the propriety of distributing the present edition of the Greek Tes
tament. Prince Cornuto condemned it in the strongest terms, and
opposed its circulation. We asked the Proto-papa, who was in the
chair, if the sense was affected by the badness of the language, but it
was generally admitted that it was not ; we then said, that although the
language might not be classical, yet if the poor could understand it,
they might still derive considerable benefit, and we stated with what
eagerness it had been received in the different islands as we came along.
This turned the scale, Prince Cornuto gave way, and Isaac Lowndes,,
who is placed here by the London Missionary Society, presented the
committee with' seventy copies which had been sent from Malta, and
which are to be distributed in the towns and villages. When the com
mittee broke up, I told Prince Cornuto that Bambas, at Scio, was
engaged in making a translation of the Scripture Lessons into good
modern Greek ; he exclaimed, that it was one of the greatest things that
could be done for Greece.
I had the headache in the afternoon and was rather feverish, but we
went to take tea with I. Lowndes and his wife, and I think they were '

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 445
comforted and encouraged by our visit. I advised him to try to raise
a little subscription among the English for Greek tracts, and to get them
from Smyrna or Constantinople.
I have promised his wife a, Manual or two ; she is just arrived from
Malta, and says that the wife of Jowett has a girls' school there for
fifteen or twenty children, that it is in an excellent state, and she pur
poses to qualify the girls as mistresses for similar institutions. I find
that Dr. Naudi's brother is engaged in forming monitors preparatory to
opening his school.
15th. — Very busy upon a plan for the education of the poor children
at Zante, to be left with Col. Ross, but I am very low ; the headache
came on, and rendered me incapable of doing any thing all the evening."
In the margin of the journal are these words — " This, I think, was
the first attack of fever." The next day, though very unwell, W. Allen
still endeavoured to^exert himself, and says —
"Plato Petrides came, and we had some most interesting conversa
tion on the subject of schools. He is disposed to begin the Scripture
Lessons directly. I could not apply to any thing, and rested a good
deal on the bed, but we went to dine with Col. Ross. I find the Jews
here are treated, with great contempt, and would be grossly insulted if
it were not for the protection of the British. There are about four
hundred who live by themselves, in a street which has a gate at each
end of it, and these gates are locked at eight o'clock in the evening,
for their security. This is another symptom of the uncivilized state of
the Greeks."
Though William Allen rallied a little the following day, yet it was
plain that he was seriously indisposed. On the 18th he writes —
" I was very unwell all the morning, but just brushed up to go to
dinner at Colonel Ross's."
From this period he was obliged to give up entirely to nursing,
and-, in a letter to his daughter, written from Corfu, thus describes his
illness : —
" Soon after my last letter to thee of the 8th of Ninth Month, from
Zante, I was taken ill with the fever, which is so common in these
islands in the autumn, but it was not till the 18th that I was obliged to
submit to be confined to the house. Dr. Thomas, who is at the head
of the health department, attended me with the most unremitting dili
gence ; but my confidence was placed in the Lord, who was graciously
pleased to comfort and support his poor afflicted servant, and to give
me an assurance that I should yet see my .beloved connections. I
retained, pretty steadily, the use of my faculties, and though the poor
body suffered more than I can describe, my mind was preserved in
sweet calm and peace. I since find that, at one time, the Doctor was
so alarmed, that he requested dear. Stephen to give me a hint of the

446 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
uncertain termination of this illness, and that it Would be well for me
to settle any thing that might require attention, whilst I had the power.
A few days after this they had a consultation, but the disorder then took
a more favourable turn. The Governor, Col. Patrick Ross, who has
behaved to me like a brother, had a large room prepared for me in his
own house, which commands an extensive view of the sea. On the
24th he sent a sedan chair to have me removed thither, and we remained
with them until we left the island. We were, for some time, in hope
of a conveyance to Malta by the transport, but it had been so much
employed, in consequence of some disturbances at Santa Maura, that
we could not rely upon it, and as opportunities, for all parts, are much
more frequent at Corfu, we concluded to come here in a government
cutter, about to sail shortly ; and I was the more inclined to do so, as
I did not seem likely to recover my strength at Zante. We came on
board between four and five o'clock, having, taken leave of our dear
friend Col. Ross and his amiable wife, with feelings of love and grati
tude ; they could not have been kinder, if I had been a near relation.*
I was so weak that I had to be supported to the boat. As night came-
on the wind rose, and we were sadly tossed. About two o'clock a
tremendous storm of thunder and lightning commenced; the rain
* William Allen always retained a lively and grateful recollection of the kind attentions
shown to him on this occasion ; a steady friendship ever afterwards subsisted between him
and Colonel, now Major-General, Sir Patrick Ross, whose daughter Mary Ann, in a letter,
addressed to one of the Editors, thus expresses her father'sfeelings on lear-ning the intelli
gence ofthe decease of William Allen: — ' " January 2nd, 1844.
"My Dear Friend,
" I should hesitate to intrude, so early, upon your affliction, with any words of mine, but
that I feel sure you will kindly excuse the expression of our sincere and affectionate sym
pathy, in the loss of your invaluable and beloved 'uncle. It was indeed with feelings of ho
common regret that we all heard of the event ; but my father is natutally most affected" by
it, for the loss of a" friend, so steadily and warmly attached, and so every way worthy of
regard and esteem, must always be deeply felt in such a world as this, where the very
rarity of such friendship tends so greatly to enhance its value. Only yesterday morning my
father was remarking how long it was since they had met, and had determined to call, in
the course of the day, at Stoke Newington, when, shortly after, the tidings of the solemn
event met his eye.
I feel that this is not a time for many words; yet when the heart is smitten there is a
balm in christian sympathy, and doubtless much of this balm will be poured in, on this
mournful occasion, from the many friends who will feel with you. Very full must be your
consolations from a far higher source ; for to those who, like your dear uncle, made his
whole life a preparation for a better, and yet rested for acceptance, not on that life, but
wholly on the blessed Redeemer, how welcome and joyful an exchange is - now made !
Mournful and trying to the surviving relatives, such dispensations must ever be, but to
those who sorrow, not only ' not without hope,' but in its full assurance, how abounding
are the precious promises provided in the Scriptures of light. and truth! May that blessed
Comforter, who is ever nearest to his people in times of mourning, be very near to your
heart, and supply, by his gracious presence, the void which, I am sure, you must long and
deeply feel."

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 447
descended in torrents, unlike any thing we see in England, and this
continued till nearly day-light, but I was sweetly supported in the midst
of the tempest. The next day, the wind being contrary, we were
obliged to put into a port in. Cephalonia, where we lay until the 15th
inst. We afterwards met with calms and light winds, so that it was the
17th of Tenth Month before we reached Corfu. Martini was quite sea
sick, and of" no use to us ; but a Serjeant on board was very civil, and
offered us one of his men to wait upon us, which we, gladly accepted.
I was sorry to find, on our arrival, that Sir Frederick Adam was absent ;
but, Dr. Skey, whom I had known in England, and who is a friend of
the Aikins, came on board and kindly insisted on taking us to his
house. This was a real comfort. Here again our Divine Master has
provided for us, just at the needful time, for I was sinking from mere
exhaustion, but here I have every thing just as I have been used to
have it. The doctor himself made me an excellent basin of arrow root,
and truly cordial it was. I have not had such an appetite since I left
England, as I have now."
In alluding to one day when he was very ill, he said —
"Under a feeling of extreme bodily weakness, my blessed Saviour
Suddenly poured in a precious stream .of consolation, which tendered
me much ; indeed, through the whole of this deeply trying illness, the
feeling of His love has been, I may say, uninterrupted."
" Tenth Month 19th, — I feel stronger and better. After breakfast,
dear Stephen waited on Sir Thomas Maitland, and had a conference
with hira, which was very satisfactory. He was so kind as to detain
the vessel in which Stephen wished to go to Barletto, until to-morrow,
and will furnish him with letters.
20th. — Still gradually increasing in strength and spirits. Dear S. G.
preparing to go forward ; we read a chapter in my room and then sat
some time in silence, after which each of us had consolation to impart
to the other. After dinner we took our final leave, Dr. Skey accompa
nying Stephen to the vessel. Nothing can exceed Dr. S.'s kindness. I
feel myself quite at home ; this is an excellent place to recruit in.
21st. — Dr. Skey accompanied me in Col. Herries's carriage to the
palace, where I had'to meet Sir Thomas Maitland by appointment. I
was yery courteously received, and we had free and open communica
tion for above an hour. I am glad to find that he is quite disposed to
adopt the British school plari, and seems zealous to make a beginning.
After this, we went to see the children in their little orphan school ;
their persons and clothes were very neat and clean.
22?wi. — Busily engaged all day in preparing the plan of a school
society, for Sir Thos. Maitland.
23rd. — In the evening Col- Napier called, and' brought with him Sir
H. Englefield's newly-contrived barometer, to be filled upon the spot.

448 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
24th  Employed very diligently in making another copy of the
Scripture Lessons, to show to the Greek clergyman here.
25th. — Sir Thos. Maitland sent for me, and I had a most interesting
conversation with him ; I left him the plan I had prepared for the school
society ; he seems quite in earnest for it. He advises me to wait eight
or ten days for the packet^ as he says I shall find it much more com
modious than the common vessels ; this would take me to Malta, where
I should then look out for a good vessel to Marseilles."
Several of the following days' were chiefly occupied in visiting the
prisons, hospitals, and poor-house,' of the island. The 29th of Tenth
Month, William Allen writes —
"Plato Petrides brought me the intelligence, that a young man, a
physician, a native of Santa Maura, had arrived-, and brought with him
a set of spelling lessons, in Greek, which had been printed at Paris.
He showed me some of them ; they are beautifully executed, and are
come just in the right time; and, what is more, the physician is suffi
ciently master of the plan to organize a school himself. All this seems
providential. Count Antoine Theotoki and another gentleman dined with us.
They will be good committee men, and they, think a ladies' committee
would be useful.
Tenth Month 30th. — When I rose this morning, ,my mind was
sweetly comforted with the feeling of being under divine notice, which
tendered and humbled me. We heard that the Otranto mail was
arrived. I went to the post office and found two letters for dear Ste
phen, which I forwarded, and one for myself; I then went to the
library, and was sorry to find that a spirit of discontent still prevailed
in England.
Dr. Athanase Politi, of Santa Maura, the physician from Paris, men
tioned yesterday, spent the evening with us; he has been abroad for
some years, perfecting his education, and has studied chemistry. He
is quite willing to stay here long enough to qualify the young man for
a schoolmaster, who is now engaged in translating the Scripture Les
sons. Another young physician, who has also completed his education
abroad, and now resides at Corfu, came with Dr. Politi, — his name is
Constantine Palatiano. He is quite willing to work on the committee
here, and seems a fine young man. The professor of mathematics of
the public school was likewise with us.
Dr. Politi informed me how the Greek spelling lessons came to be
printed. A very rich person, named Rossetou Rosnobanou, of Jassy,
in Moldavia, was at Paris, and was so much struck with the importance
of the system of mutual instruction for the general education of the
poor, that he resolved to take measures to introduce it into his own
country, and among the Greeks. He engaged a young Greek, of the

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 449
name of Kleoboulou, to learn the plan at Paris, on the condition that
he should spend a whole year in Jassy, in establishing it there. The
gentleman was at the expense of twelve thousand francs in the moulds
cut for the types of the Spelling Lessons and Reading Lessons, which
are most beautifully executed. I understand that the parties are
returned to Jassy, so that we may consider the plan as established there.
The Honourable Charles Percy, a fine young man, related to the North
umberland family, came in before the company went away; he seems
to entertain no doubts of Sir Thomas Maitland's concurrence in the
plan. I shall look upon Percy as one of the main props and pillars of
it here. Tenth Month 31st. — After breakfast I retired to my chamber, and
read in the Testament as usual. I then endeavoured to fix my mind
on the Source of all good, and felt openness in mental prayer, and much
comfort. After dinner read in Isaiah. I have felt much inward Sup
port to-day.
Eleventh Month 1st. — N. Maniaches, the young man who I think
will do for a master here, brought me the translation of the first section
of the ' Duties,' in modern Greek. A very steady young man, an
officer, the same who dined with us the other day, called to offer his
services on the committee for the schools, if one should be formed.
2nd. — Dr. Skey went with me to call on Baron Theotoki. We had
much talk on the subject of schools, and he seems to be well affected
towards the measure. I was quite glad of this interview, especially as
he is to speak to Sir Thomas about it, to-morrow. He pressed me to
dine with him at four o'clock, which, as it might afford me the oppor
tunity of further conversation, I agreed to do. About twelve o'clock,
Dr. Gadiano brought with him three of his Greek friends, who could
all speak French, to talk about the school plan. They seem heartily
disposed to co-operate. Dr. Gadiano says that he has spoken to some
of the Greek ladies, who are very willing to come forward for the girls.
I met several gentlemen at dinner, at the Baron's, and We had a great
deal of interesting conversation.
Eleventh Month 3rd. — Dr. Skey and I took a walk out of the town ;
the country is very fine, which way soever we turn, and the Albanian
mountains in the back ground, the water, islands, and cultivated country,
afford a beautiful landscape ; vegetation is everywhere luxuriant. The
people here are dirty in their persons, they seem, however, industrious,
and if they had but the blessings of education, including, of course, a
knowledge of the Scriptures, their improvement would doubtless be
rapid and striking. Col. Patrick Ross arrived to-day ; I was truly
glad- to see him, but concerned that he seemed out of health.
5th  I received a kind note from Col. Ross, to say that Sir
Thomas Maitland desired him to tell me that he should be in town on

450 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
second-day, and hoped to see me at the palace, and finally settle upon
our plan.
6th.^-T)T. Politi, and a friend of his, called ; he has got the Scripture
Lessons, and also my address on the subject of education, translated
into modern Greek and Italian, as the latter language is much spoken
here. I called on Baron Theotoki and spoke to him about having them
printed ; he not only readily agreed to the proposal, but said he would
send the printer to me to take directions, and he came accordingly.
This was a good morning's work.
7^.-1 have read a good deal in the Bible to day ; and, on retiring
to my chamber, to endeavour to unite in spirit with my dear distant
friends, then engaged in religious worship, my heart was tendered.
How insipid are all the gratifications and pleasures of this world, in
comparison wilh the enjoyment of the divine presence and love ! This
only is worth living for — everything else will leave us ; dearest relations.
and most intimate friends must drop off, but if we are united in Jesus,
it will only be a temporary separation. 6, how ought we to seize eVery
opportunity to strengthen this bond !
9th. — Received a note from Col. Ross, to say that Sir Thomas had
been so much employed, that he, had not himself had an opportunity to
speak to him since he came to town, though living in the same house ;
so I must bear my disappointment. Patience must still be exercised,
and, may I not say, faith ?
Eleventh Month 10th.— My mind was sweetly comforted and refresh
ed in the Lord this morning, and I prayed for preservation not only for
myself, but for those also who are dearest to me. Sir Frederick Adam
breakfasted with us ; I explained the school- plan to him, he is a warm
and zealous friend to our system, and will do much to promote it here..
I find that I am not likely to see the Governor till sixth or seventh-day,
but Sir Frederick Adam is confident that he is friendly to the business.
Col. Ross was made a Knight this morning, so he is now Sir Patrick
Ross. I had an invitation to attend a meeting of the committee of the Bible
Society, at the house of Baron Theotoki, who is president. The Greek
Archbishop and three priests were present ; they were about to present
every one of their churches with a Testament in common Greek, and
also to have libraries in the villages, or places where Testaments might
be deposited and lent.
11th. — The London packet is arrived, so that unless it should be
detained by government, I expect to be off for Malta in forty-eight hours,
as that is the time allowed/ I went to the library, and read the English
newspapers ; there has been sad business at Manchester, — I am afraid
there will be great commotions and overturnings. 0, that the members
of our religious society may keep themselves clear from all parties, and

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 451
endeavour to build upon that sure foundation which the storms of the
world can never shake !
14th. — Sir Frederick Adam came in and breakfasted with us ; he says
that Sir Thomas Maitland has determined to adopt our school plan, and
that it will be acted upon directly ; he told me that I might make my
mind quite easy respecting it. We find that the packet sails this morn
ing ; I therefore finished putting up my things, and about twelve o'clock
went on board, Dr. Skey accompanying me ; his kindness has been
uniform and unremitted ; surely my having been brought here was
providential.- The wind is against us.
16th. — The wind is still against us. I feel low, but peaceful ; my
prayers are put up, night and day, that the work of regeneration may
go on in me, and that I may, in all things, be made what the Lord
would have me to be.
11th. — I long to feel more of the life-giving presence of the Shepherd
of Israel.
Eleventh Month 19th  In the afternoon a breeze sprang up ; we
discerned land, though the weather was very hazy, and came to anchor
in a fine harbour in Malta about six o'clock.
20th. — We had leave from the quarantine officers to come on shore,
but previously, Dr. Naudi and the missionary, William Jowett, came
alongside in a boat. Jowett accompanied me to the inn, which is kept
by an Englishman of the name of Vicary ; it is a large quiet bouse, and
my apartments are very neat.
21st. — Dr. Naudi called, also W. Jowett, who is of the ' Church
Missionary Society,' and J. Greaves, the secretary of the School So
ciety here, arid from them I heard an account of the steps they have
taken to form schools on the plan of the ^British and Foreign School
Society.' They are in great difficulty about a school-room. It appears
that the Roman Catholics here are very bigoted, and much afraid of
attempts to proselyte ; several of these are members of the committee,
and they cannot, even at present, introduce the Holy Scriptures, or any
lessons from' them, therefore the plan of printing the Scripture Lessons
in Italian, will not answer here ; I must, however, get it done in Italy.
In order to relieve their fears, W. Jowett, the Church Missionary, and
Samuel Wilson, the London Missionary, have withdrawn from the
committee. I went to deliver two of my letters, one to Dr. Warren,
and the other to Col. Stewart, the son of the famous Dugald Stewart ;
the former is to show me the hospitals on third-day. Colonel Stewart
introduced me to the Deputy Governor, Col. Maitland, who showed me
the coats of mail, and the complete suits of armour of the knights, which
are very curious. I went to dine with Sir, Richard Plasket, and in
passing out of the town saw the strength of the fortificat ons. The

452 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
whole country seems made of rock, and being whitish, the glare of
light is very strong. The sun was setting before ds in the west — my
mind was, in a remarkable manner, calmed and tranquillized, and I was
sweetly reminded of that happy state, 'where the wicked cease from
troubling, and the weary are at rest.' I seldom, if ever, have contem
plated the last closing scene with more pleasurable sensations. The
party was select, and after dinner we had much conversation on the
school plan; I explained the rise and progress of the society, -and
strongly urged Sir Richard to give the committee here the countenance
and support of government, and to let them have rooms, in some of the
government buildings, for school-rooms.
Eleventh Month 22nd  Dr. Naudi called, and we went to see some
of the rooms belonging to the government ; we found some admirable
ones in the old naval hospital, which would answer well. I visited
Joseph Naudi's school, which is kept in a room in Dr. Naudi's house ;
he has only thirty-eight children, but the room is full, and there are
eighty-eight candidates for admission. In the afternoon, T went to W.
Jowett's, and had some interesting conversation with his wife, a sensible
and clever woman, on the subject of her school, which I find is almost
entirely her own concern ; she has kept it up for nearly three years ; in
that time she has received two subscriptions, and has expended above
thirty pounds. We conversed upon the general plan, and she brought
forward a list of the names of ladies to whom it might be proper to
apply to become a general committee for the girls' schools. It appeared,
on the whole, best to have the Italian Scripture Lessons printed at
Paris, and we concluded to do it from Martini's translation. We got a
Testament of this sort to cut up and paste, bnt the whole Bible only
exisfs,' at present, in a number of large octavo volumes ; the Bible
Society of London, however, is printing a common edition. In the
meantime, a copy of the large work is to be lent to me, in order that,
while I am in quarantine, at Marseilles, I may select the parts which
we want for the' Lessons, and take them to Paris to print from. It
would be desirable to do the same also in the French and German
languages. Returned to, my lodgings, and spent the evening till past
eleven, reading.
23rd.— I went to meet Dr. Warren at the Hospital ; it is a very
large pile of building, and was originally designed for this purpose by
the Knights' Hospitaliers."
On conversing with the chief secretary, about the room, which seemed
so well adapted for a school-room, being appropriated to this object,
there was evidently a hesitation on his part, lest the measure should
not be sanctioned by the Governor. This, of course, awakened some
surprise, considering what had so recently passed at Corfu, but it was

1819.

OF WILLIAM ALLEN. - 453

afterwards quite plain, William Allen says, that liberal exertions, and
combinations of individuals to, do good, were not countenanced in that
quarter. The prisons at Malta afforded a dismal picture of the depravity of
the human heart, both as it regarded the inmates, and the punishments
inflicted upon them, and in describing part of one of the buildings, he
says —
"It was in these cells, that the torture used to be inflicted in the
time of the Knights of Malta."
Some of the cruelties practised there were horrible. After visiting
the poor-house and other institutions, he remarks —
" Malta is so healthy, that there are vast numbers of old people in it,
and the population is rapidly increasing, though the misery of the poor
is great, and there are many beggars in the streets.
Eleventh Month 24th. — We went to dine with Joseph Slythe, where
I met Naudi, Jowett, Wilson, and Greaves ; it was a very pleasant
party. 26th  Put up several parcels of tracts for different persons, and
about eleven o'clock went to William Jowett's, where I met six or
seven ladies, and engaged them to form a ladies' committee for a girls'
school. A resolution was drawn up, which is to be sent to-morrow to
a meeting of the gentlemen's committee. I read to these ladies the
Tver rules ; a copy of the rules for a girls' school at Petersburg, is to
be taken for their use. I then went to the palace, and had an interview
with Sir Richard Plasket, who engaged that I should have a copy of
the number of convictionsin a year, under the head of particular crimes.
Left with him some books and tracts. In the afternoon, went to attend
the Bible Committee, at Jowett's ; about seven or eight were present,
.and among them I was pleased to see a Greek priest.
21th. — I went to Joseph Slythe's to meet the school committee ; they
agreed to an address to the Governor, praying for a school-room, and
also received the application of the ladies.
Dr. Naudi called with the Spanish Consul ; also William Rae Wilson,
with Judge Wright ; the latter promises his utmost support and assist
ance to the schools upon our plan. After supper, read in Chalkley's
Journal till past eleven, and was a little comforted by it.
Eleventh Month 28th. — Went, by appointment, with Dr. Naudi to
the Spanish Consul, Don Alberto de Meghino, a native of Saragossa,
who now resides at Zeetune, about four or five miles distant. He is a
great friend to the education of the poor, and has, principally at his own
expense, built a very handsome house for schools for boys and girls at
this place. Sir Thomas Maitland and his government are, I under
stand, quite displeased at this public-spirited act. We dined with the
Consul, but I came back to tea. Wrote to Bambas at Scio, and

454 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
Williamson and David Offley, at Smyrna. After supper, I read T.
Chalkley's Journal ; the reading of the lives of these ancient worthies
affords me great strength and comfort.
29th. — I called on Dr. Naudi, and we went across the water to the
old town, to see the house of the inquisition ; it is a large square stone
building, now occupied by the military; they have walled up the
descent to the region of horrors below, but the government ought to
have kept it open, to show the mischief of permitting ecclesiastical
tyranny. We saw several dismal rooms, and three in particular, up
stairs, which perfectly answer to the description given by Catherine
Evans and Sarah Cheevers, who were imprisoned -here in the year
1675.* When the doors are shut, these rooms must, in summer, be
almost stifling.
30th. — Finished a letter to Lord Guildford, and put up for him a
Manual, School and Prison Papers; Tuke's Principles, &c. Wrote also
to the Hon. Charles Percy, and put up several tracts for him."
Lord Guildford being absent from Corfu during W. Allen's stay on
that island, the latter was induced thus to express his sentiments, in
reference to some points which particularly claimed his notice : —
" Though personally a stranger, I have, for several years past, been
aware of thy benevolent exertions for the good of mankind, and have
wished to be introduced to thee. The circumstance of thy absence
from Corfu at the time I visited it, was, to me, matter of great regret,
as I believe that, from a deep feeling of its vast importance, we both
have the subject of education much at heart. My attention, however,
has been almost solely directed to the poor. I certainly have a most
decided preference for the, plan of the British and Foreign School
Society ; it is more liberal, more efficient, and more economical than
that of Dr. Bell, and in my late journey through Russia, I have had
new and most gratifying proofs of its effects. In France, notwithstand
ing they choose to mention both the names of the rival benefactors of
mankind, the schools, at least all that I have ever seen there, are essen
tially upon our plan. In travelling through Greece, I have been pain
fully struck with the want of moral principle in the people, the poor are
almost universally brought up in ignorance, and female children totally
neglected. I find that government is paying vast sums of money under
the head of education, but the few schools that exist, are generally in
a bad state, and many of the children belong to parents who could
afford to pay for their learning. Surely government should spare this
expense, and apply the money to the children of the poor. In visiting
the existing schools, I was deeply grieved to find that the page of divine
inspiration, containing the most perfect system of morals which the
* See Sewell's History of the Society of Friends.

1819. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 455 '
world ever saw, was not introduced in the schools, but instead of it, the
maxims of heathen philosophers.
I hope that the Lessons from the Holy Scriptures, now printing at
Corfu, and the same as those used in Russia, will meet thy approba
tion. Our object in framing them, was to bring forward such texts of
Scripture, without note or comment, as were likely to make a deep
impression on the youthful mind, and incline it to piety and virtue.
The young man, Lusignan, (engaged by government as a teacher at
Corfu,,) appears to me to have talent and zeal, and, although he has
been educated on Bell's plan, he is not ignorant of our's, and has ex
pressed his willingness to learn it of Dr. Politi, a gentleman who was
some time in Paris, and, having seen the schools there, was so fully
impressed with the importance of the system to his own country, that
he studied it thoroughly, and is qualified to train masters, and organize
schools. Though his residence is at Santa Maura, and his object the
practice of physic, he is quite willing to stay at Corfu, long enough to
establish the system there.
The young man who is employed to translate the Scripture Lessons,
under the superintendence of Dr. Politi, seems to have considerable
talent, and will, I doubt not, when he has learned the plan, make, a
very good master, and when qualified he may be sent to Sir Patrick
Ross, who wishes to have a school at Zante, while Lusignan might
have the charge of the model school at Corfu.
The idea which I have formed of thy character, leads me to write
without reserve, as to a person as enthusiastic in this great work as
myself. Sir Frederick Adam is warmly with us, and has commis
sioned me to send out one thousand slates.
I feel so much interested in the education of the poor children of the
Ionian Islands, that from this time forward I purpose, not only to keep
my eye steadily upon the object, but to seek to draw the attention of
the people of England to it.
It will give me great pleasure to receive a letter from thee, and may
the Almighty prosper every benevolent endeavour in thy hands."
When at Malta, William Allen discovered that, so far from promoting
attempts to educate the poor, the Lord High Commissioner actually
counteracted the efforts of those who were labouring in the cause, and
he says —
"I am' really grieved when I see, both at Corfu and in this island,
so many persons ready to come forward to promote a great and
acknowledged good, and they thwarted and kept in check by the very
man who, from his situation, ought to be the first to encourage them."
The sufferings of the poor at Malta, in consequence of the monopoly
of corn there, were also, matter of much concern to W. Allen, who
took considerable pains in' reference to this subject. He had the plea-

456 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
sure of seeing a ladies', committee formed for the care of the girls'
schools, and their rules were upon- the model of the Tver and Peters
burg plan.
Twelfth Month 1st  I took a solitary walk by the ramparts close
to the sea, for about an hour, and most of the time was spent in mental
prayer. 2nd. — Dr. Naudi breakfasted with me, and we afterwards went to a
place called St. Paul's Bay, where it is generally agreed the Apostle
was shipwrecked ; it took us between two and three hours ; we had a
continual prospect of stone walls. The carob tree seems exceedingly
well adapted for this place ; its fruit is a sort of pod, four or five inches
long ; it is sweet and somewhat mucilaginous ; the poor eat it when
baked, and it is given to cattle ; its roots insert themselves in the fis
sures of the rocks in an extraordinary manner, and seem to flourish
almost without any soil. The Indian fig, or Cactus opuntia, grows to
a very great size, its leaves being often nearly a foot long, and broad in (
proportion : it bears a great deal of fruit, which is very good to eat.
3rd. — I have now waited about a fortnight for a vessel to Marseilles,
but in vain, and they tell nie that the passage is very .difficult ^nd bad
at this time of the year ; I have therefore finally concluded to go in a
nice English brig to Civita Vecchia ; then, of course, to Rome, and by
Florence, Milan, and the pass of the Simplon, to Geneva. A military
surgeon, a Scotchman of the name of Baird, is also going, and, as he
speaks Italian, it will be very convenient. I have formed an acquaint
ance with Captain Smyth of the Aid, and am delighted with him ; he
is employed by government to survey these parts of the world.
4th — Weather cloudy and the wind still contrary. After supper read
Chalkley, a devoted servant of the great and good Master. 0, that I
Were like him !
5th — After breakfast, and my usual reading in the Testament, I
walked on the ramparts near the sea, with my mind turned to the Lord,
and seeking for His divine, all-consoling presence ; I was exceedingly
low, and sat down upon the carriage of one of the great guns, breathing
out prayers to Him who alone can help, and my mind was in a good
degree stayed and tranquillized. The place was quiet and retired,
with a fine commanding view of the sea, and I was, in spirit, with my
dear relations and friends assembled in their meeting for divine worship.
My contemplations have been very much upon the awful close and end
of all things here, and my prayer is, that my duty may be clearly shown
me, and that I may be strengthened to perform it.
Soon after I returned to my lodgings, Captain Smyth called, with a
gentleman of the name of Wilkinson, who lives over the water, and
seems to be a benevolent man. He patronizes a school upon Bell's plan,
which is near him, and first originated in the chaplain of a man-of-war,

1819.

OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 457

but on account of its narrow principles, they can have none of the chil
dren of the natives, and as it is, I understand that some, not natives,
will not send their children on account of the catechism. He acknow
ledged the superiority of the British plan, and promised his countenance
to Naudi's school; he even wished to become a correspondent; he is
a highly respectable man; and has considerable influence. Dined alone
as usual, and spent the rest of the day in reading the Bible and in
religious retirement.
About the walls of some of the places of worship here, there are large
carvings of human figures, naked to the middle, in flames; this is to
raise sympathy for souls in purgatory. The superstition and bigotry
of this place are great, but they are a mild people, and might be easily
led and enlightened, if they had a different Governor.
Twelfth Month 6th — Stephen Serle, an Englishman, who had been
two years servant in a family here, but is now out of place, applied to
me to take him to England, and, havirig a good character, I engaged
him with this proviso, that I should discharge him at any point upon
the road if I was not satisfied with his conduct ; he is anxious to return
to his friends in Devorishire. Went across the water to dine at Dr.
Warren's, and took tea at Samuel Wilson's, the missionary, where I
met W. Jowett and his wife, Dr. Naudi, and Joseph Greaves. In the
evening I had an opportunity of religious communication with this
company. 1th. — Joseph Slythe called, and had much conversation upon the
state of Malta. Something, ought to be done, if it were only for the
sake of the poor ; there is great and well-founded discontent.
8th. — Being anxious about the wind, I took a walk to the sea-side
before breakfast, and rejoiced to find it favourable. I hastened back
to breakfast, settled my bill, and got on board the Kate, Capt. Smith,
between nine and ten o'clock; but some delay occurring in conse
quence of the absence of one of the sailors, we had to wait till near two
before we fairly started. I was a little qualmish, but comfortable in
mind, and delighted to set my face towards home.
Twelfth Month 9th. — The vessel rolls greatly ; Dr. Baird is very ill,
but I stand it well. About noon, we had Mount Etna on our left. In
the evening we had rather an anxious time, as it was dark when we
reached the Pass of Faro. We saw the lights of Messina on our left,
and at length went safely between the Scylla and Charybdis of the
ancients, for which I felt thankful. I regretted passing these interest
ing places, in the dark. About midnight, the Captain came to my berth
to inform me that we could see Stromboli, a burning mountain in the
sea, and one of the Lipari Islands, and that occasionally there were
flashes of light. I rose and went on deck ; the moon had just risen, I
could discern the island, and watching it attentively for a long time, I

458 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1819.
saw two- emissions of light, somewhat like phosphorescent clouds. The
Captain, who was on deck great part of the night, saw several others,
but it seems that we are on the wrong side of the island for viewing
this phenomenon.
10th. — After breakfast I went on deck, and read in the Testament as
usual, then, going to a retired part of the vessel, and leaning over the
side with my mind directed to the Source of all good, I was strength
ened and comforted. I afterwards posted my journal, and took several
observations with my sextant.
13th. — There has been a favourable breeze in the night, and we
reached Civita Vecchia this morning; when the vessel was moored,
the Captain went ashore with the letters, and brought the unwelcome
intelligence that our quarantine, instead of a week, as we hoped, is to
be three weeks.
11th  I generally have good nights in my little narrow berth. On
waking, this morning, my mind was raised in aspirations to the Great
Author of all, and, as I was revolving the subject of those doubts with
which the enemy, at times, endeavours to overwhelm me, and the
question, which those who are in the spirit of the world are so apt to
ask, how do you know whether what you take for a divine impulse,
may not be the working of your own imagination ? — it sweetly occurred,
that it might be known by the same test that our Lord gave, to distin
guish his followers from those of the world — by the fruits. I would
say, I have a right to conclude that I am under divine influence, when
I feel my heart filled with loye to God, and love to all men,' with a
desire that all, without exception, might be eternally happy ; when I
feel an abhorrence of all vice and sin ; when I feel the peace of God
which passes all understanding. This, to me, is evidence as conclusive
as any demonstration in Euclid, artd, under this influence, the Holy
Scriptures are felt to be precious. It is only under this influence that
we know that we have not followed ' cunningly devised fables,' and it
is only under this influence that we can bring forth fhe fruits of the
Spirit ; but they who are busying themselves with external and sensible
objects, can have no idea of this state, and even we ourselves, who in
some favoured moments have experienced it, are liable, by degrees, to
lose our sense of it, if we suffer external and Sensible things to engross
too much of our attention ; hence the necessity of frequent retirement
and introversion of mind."
In a letter to his daughter, bearing the- same date, William Allen
says 
" I greatly long to see you all, and sometimes, when I muse upon
you, and bring you all up in review before me, I am in danger of being
a little impatient, but my dear Master is. tery kind, and though I am
often low, and sometimes tossed with cruel doubts and fears, yet he

1820. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 459
always comes, at last, to my relief, and at seasons, fills my cup so that
I am ready to weep tears of joy. I mention this, my dear, for thy
encouragement and comfort. I have, this morning, had the renewed
evidence that we have been employed in sowing seed, and though this
work is not very obvious, and makes little noise, yet it is essential to
that harvest which those who follow may have to reap."
" Twelfth Month 19th. — After breakfast I sat in the boat upon deck,
and read a good deal in the Psalms, I also read in Second Corinthians
to the Captain and Dr. Baird, and had some spiritual refreshment.
2(M.— Our captain has got his ballast out, and is taking in Puzzo-
lana for the government works at Sheerness. It is in a powdered state,
and of a red brown colour ; it composes the soil of a place about
twenty miles up the Tiber, and is also found in other parts."
Whilst in quarantine, William Allen was diligently occupied in pre
paring the Italian Scripture Lessons, and he also learned to take lunar
observations. On the 27th he writes —
" Most of this day I was studying Rio's Tables, and made myself
completely master of the lunars.
28//(. — On pacing the deck, as I often do for exercise, I remembered,
with peculiar sweetness, the journey in France, with H. Field, E. Bar
ker, and my dear child.
29th. — A little comforted and encouraged with a feeling of divine
love ; and a full persuasion that it is my duty to advocate the great and
good cause of the Lord, in the congregation, as well as on private
occasions. Much sweetness accompanied the prospect."
The 2nd of First Month, 1820, orders were issued for their release
from quarantine, and the next day, William Allen, in company with his
fellow traveller, Dr. Baird, proceeded to Rome, the walls of which, he
says —
" Are not so high as I expected, and .there is nothing at all particular
in the gateway, which is a simple arch. There was a slight examina
tion of the baggage, and a soldier was placed upon the trunks behind,
until we came to the custom house, where they just opened some of
them, but soon passed every thing. We proceeded in search of the
inn recommended by our friend Bartrum ; as we passed through the
square in which Trajan's Pillar is situated, we saw a procession of about
twenty or thirty persons, in white, with white veils, whether men or
women I could not tell, then a number followed, with white cloaks
over a black habit ; they stopped occasionally and chaunted, then fol
lowed a coffin carried by men, with a rich black velvet pall, ornamented
with escutcheons, and in front a massy piece of silver plate; on each
side of the coffin were a number of persons dressed all in white, and
carrying lighted wax candles of a large size. The first inn we went to
was full, but I had a recommendation from Dr. Naudi to another in

460 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1820.
the Place d'Espagne, the Hotel de Londres, where we met with good
accommodation. First Month 4th. — After breakfast I went to deliver my letters.; the
first was to the Sardinian Consul, G. B, la Rasi, whom I found a very
agreeable man, and a friend to the education of poor children ; he
wishes me to introduce the subject to their minister here, and appointed
to-morrow morning for the interview. I was much pleased in becom
ing acquainted with la Rasi, particularly as he readsy and speaks Eng
lish ; we talked about prisons and other matters, and I gave him one
of Benezet's observations. We went to see the famous building called
St. Peter's ; it is situated at the northern extremity of the town ; I ven
tured in without taking off my hat, and saw the interior of this wonderful
edifice ; the aisle would hold many thousand persons, but every thing
is in such just proportion that, at first, we were not so much struck with
the magnitude of the place, as we were on a nearer examination ; when
comparing the colossal parts, with the diminutive appearance of the
people walking on the pavement, we acquire a correct idea of this sur
prising structure. The figures are beautifully carved in marble. Dr.
Baird and I next went to the Capitol ; on our way we passed the tower
of St. Angelo, and crossed the Tiber, which is a narrow muddy stream,
winding among the houses. The Capitol is merely a little hill or rising
ground, which we ascend by steps, at the top of which are two colossal
marble figures, with each a horse by his side, to represent Castor and
Pollux. In the middle of the square is an equestrian statue, in bronze,
of Marcus Aurelius ; passing this we come to the triumphal arch, at the
bottom of the Hill of the Capitol, erected in honour' of Septimus
Severus, and then reached the space where the assemblies of the people
were held, the Forum Romanum. Here we see the Triumphal Arch
of Titus, and still farther on, that of Constantine on the right, and on
the left the magnificent ruins of the amphitheatre called the Colosseum,
said to be capable of holding eighty thousand spectators.
The streets in Rome are narrow, the houses are high, brick plaistered,
and there are no foot-ways.
First Month 5th. — Our friend la Rasi called for us, and we went to
the Sardinian Minister, with whom I had much talk on the subject of
schools, and have at least opened the way for something to be done :
thence we went to the Minerva, a Convent of Dominicans, to see De
Pretys ; he seems an agreeable man. Westopped at the Pantheon, which
I believe is the most perfect temple now remaining, many of the rest
having only two or three pillars standing. These fine ruins were half
buried in rubbish, until Bonaparte ordered them to be cleared. There
are some things here which Baird was desirous of seeing, and wished
me to accompany him. We accordingly had a coach, and went first
to the workshop of the famous sculptor, Canova. Here we saw statues

1820. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 461
in all their stages ; some, nearly finished, were extremely beautiful. We
then went to the palace of the Vatican, which contains the museum and
lihrary : this, alone, in order to be completely seen, would require more
than a week. Here are gallaries five hundred yards long, some con
taining inscriptions of remote ihiquity, which have been dug up from
time to time, and are ingeniously let in so as to compose the sides of the
walls. Some contain a number of statues, the master-pieces of anti
quity, others paintings, &c. We saw the Apollo Belvidere, and the
Laocoon. Hence we went again to the Capitol, to see the Tarpeian
Rock, from which the Romans used to throw criminals. The place is
now surrounded with houses, and does not look at all like a rock. The
precipice is only sixty or seventy feet : after what I had read of it in
Roman History, I was a good deal surprised on seeing it. We went
f'o see the entrance to Rome, called the Gate of the People, in which
the city shows to most advantage, and then returned to our inn. The
evening was occupied in writing the index to my travels.
First Month 6th. — I called upon the Sardinian Consul, and then
went a considerable distance near the outskirts of the city, to see the
prison called St. Michael. It is part of a great mass of buildings. The
first prison is solely appropriated to boys under twenty years of age, —
there are, at present, only forty-one in it : they are employed in spinning
wool, and the gaoler says that their work nearly pays the expenses for
food. They work from seven in the morning, to about half an hour
before sunset. A religious tract is given to every one who can read ;
but only ten out of the present number are able. Each boy has a cell
to himself. The punishment of death is confined to murder and high
way robbery. In the women's prison there were three hundred and
fifty prisoners : they spin wool and also weave ; there is no classification,
and though there are some instances of reform, many, when discharged,
commit fresh crimes and come back again. We started for Florence
about noon, in a heavy coach, guarded by two dragoons, and soon got
into the Corso, which is the principal street in Rome. We went out
at the Porto del Populo, which brought us on the Flaminian Way.
We passed Nero's tomb about five miles from Rome. The Appenines
on our right were very fine, and the reflection of the sun from the snow
was grand indeed. Dr. Baird pointed out to me the situation of Tivoli
and Frescati."
The roads were bad and the carriage inconvenient, so that the
journey was rendered very fatiguing. The following morning William
Allen notices passing a little brook, and entering Tuscany, and after
wards adds —
" This is a fine country, very hilly, and the soil in parts sandy, often
washed down in ravines ; the valleys are beds of torrents. We observe,
however, fields cultivated for wheat) and a great number of mulberry

462 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1820.
trees, with large vines about them, and in many parts the vines are sup
ported by poles, and are higher than those in the South of France. It
must be a beautiful country to travel in during the summer. There are
many olive trees in some of the valleys.
First Month 8th. — As we proceeded, the ground appeared under
garden cultivation. About eight o'clock in the morning we reached
the gates of Florence, and gave in our passports, which were soon
returned, and nothing said about examining our baggage. We went
to the New York Hotel, where we engaged apartments. On settling
with the courier, we found that there was a regular system of extract
ing as much money as possible from travellers. I went out to deliver
my letters, and proceeded first to Sebastian Klieber, who appears a
very agreeable man. He is to introduce me to some of their school
committee. I was well received at the other places also. Florence
is esteemed the Athens of Italy, but it is said that the purest Italian is
spoken at Sienna. We visited some of the hospitals, and as far as a
cursory observation can go, the patients seem to be well taken care of.
10th. — High wind and hard frost. A poor prospect for passing the
Alps, but after .breakfast my spirit was brought into tenderness, and
sweetly comforted.
The people of Florence carry little pots of charcoal to keep their
fingers warm, even as they walk the streets. Sebastian Klieber kindly
sent his nephew, Horace Hall, son of the chaplain to the British Fac
tory, at Leghorn, to show me some of their institutions. He is a fine
young man, and speaks English perfectly well. Dr. Baird was of the
party, and two other English travellers also joined us. We first went
to the school established upon the British and Foreign system, in the
First Month, 1819. They have a good school-room, fitted up exactly
upon our plan, and two hundred and fifty boys. It appears that Count
Ridolfi, the original founder of the schools, and Dr. Choni^ professor of
chemistry, saw me in the street, going towards the schools, and judged
from the shape of my hat, that I must be the friend of S. Grellet; t,hey
therefore came in, and I was much pleased at meeting with them. Our
friend Hall now conducted us to the museum of natural history, which
is a magnificent establishment, and contains a great number of rooms,
each appropriated to its peculiar objects. We were first shown the
anatomical preparations in wax, which were beautifully exact; the
muscles, tendons, and bones are exquisitely imitated. The heart, with
its cavities, &c, is shown most admirably. Professor Raddi conducted
us through these rooms. In other apartments are plants exactly
modelled in wax, stuffed birds, objects of comparative anatomy, the
silk- worm in all its stages, &c, &c. There are also collections of
minerals. I could have spent a week here with pleasure.
It is excessively cold to-day — the river Arno is. in part choked with

1820. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 463
ice, which is a thing of very rare occurrence here. We visited the
famous poor-house, which was instituted by the present Grand Duke of
Tuscany, in 1815, to prevent mendicity; here labour of various kinds
is provided. Every person, found begging, is to be taken up and sent
here. It is altogether a government concern. We saw a blind woman
Weaving a figured carpet, with two shuttles of different coloured
worsted. The whole of the establishment is dirty, and there is a strik
ing want of classification ; bad characters are forced in, and they may
corrupt many others.
In the afternoon Dr. Choni called, and sat some time with us, and
we also received a visit from Count Ridolfi, the Marquis Pucci, and
Ferdinand Tartini Salvatici, foreign secretary of the society for the dif
fusion of the method of mutual instruction at Florence. We had a
very interesting conference ; they are sensible clever men, and I was
glad I came to Florence, were it only to become acquainted with these
persons; we talked over different subjects, I lent them the memorials,
and plan of a prison society, to copy, and gave them one of Buxton's
books, the prison tracts, and those of the Peace Society.
First Month 11th. — In the evening Tartini came for me, and we
went a considerable distance, to the Marquis Luigi Tempi ; here I met
Count Ridolfi and the Marquis Pucci. They presented me with the
Lessons and printed papers of their school society, and also with the
copy of a communication from their committee, appointing me corre
sponding member. I am much pleased with these men.
I asked the landlord of the hotel to look out for a carriage for us,
being extremely desirous to proceed homewards.
12th. — Our kind friend, Horace Hall, called to conduct us to the
hospital Benefaccio ; these extensive buildings contain establishments
for the insane, for invalids, and a military hospital. I must send Tuke's
book to the care of Tartini. After visiting these institutions and the
foundling hospital, I met Count Bardi, who introduced me to his col
league at the Museum Nesti, and we had a good deal of talk about
schools, &c. Count Bardi then took us through the rooms in which
the apparatus is kept, and truly it is a noble collection. Here I saw
the first telescope of Galileo ; I saw also several curious old instruments
of the famous Academy del Cimento, which held its meetings in the
Palace Pitti, in this city.
The landlord informed us that some English have just arrived from
1 Geneva, in a chariot brought all the way by the same pair of horses,
from the house of Dejean, of Secheron, and the driver wants a fare
back; we like, the appearance of him, and having approved of his
carriage and horses, made our arrangements for him to take us there.
I cannot but consider this circumstance as providential, for if I had

464 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1820.
bought a carriage, there would have been great trouble in posting in
the different states of Italy. '
First Month 13th  Count Bardi called to take me to his school,
which is in the quarter called St. Croix, and near the mountains ; he
gave me some gratifying proofs of the efficacy of his plan of education.
It will be a good thing, to get all committees of schools to send us in
stances of the effect of the system on morals, and also in the rapidity of
acquiring instruction. We went over to the Murati, which is an appen
dage to the poor-house, and then to the prison. Count Bardi says,
that the president, Pucchini, wishes very much for information on prison
discipline, and begs hard for the last copy of Buxton's book, which I
must let him have ; Bardi engages to translate it. Capital punishments
are rare, only five in five years. Much might be done by a good prison
committee here.
We find that the courier from Bologna is not arrived, so, of course,
the roads are blocked up with the snow, and here we must stay until
they are opened.
14th. — A clear frosty morning, but the snow is very deep. There
are fine views in the neighbourhood of Florence of vineyards and
gardens, hills and mountains, so that it must be a delightful place in
summer. Count Bardi called in the evening ; he wishes me to send
him a Manual, and all that appertains to schools for adults, also the
application of our system to the higher branches.
First Month 15th. — It is dismal, dull weather, and now rains a little.
16th^ — It still thaws, and while we were at breakfast, our coachman
came to say we might start in an hour and a half.. About eleven we
set out in a mizzling rain, and at half-past six reached Les Masques,
where we are to lodge. We have passed a great many cypress trees,
and have ascended a very steep hill. Vines and olives are numerous.
11th. — We set off at half-past eight ; the prospect from this place is
grand ; we are in the midst of an amphitheatre of mountains, and
crossed the Appenines to-day. My fellow traveller got out to walk,
and I had a sweet time of retirement in the carriage alone, feeling my
heart warmed by a degree of divine love, and my prayers were put up,
that the Lord would make me and keep me his, and accept of the
residue of my days to be spent in his service.
Between four and five, we passed the last post in the Tuscan domin
ions, where we gave in our passports ; we proceeded only a little
farther, when they were demanded again by the Pope's agents, for we
are obliged to pass through his territories to our desired post ; here they
made a search into our portmanteaus, &c, and observing some pam
phlets and books in my largest trunk, the douanier would not suffer
them to pass ; after some remonstrance he made a large demand for a

1520. OF WILLIAM ALLEN, 465
deposit to obtain, permission, but this being refused, he had the trunk
sealed, and sent a soldier armed to go all the way with us to Bologna.
Glad shall I be fyhen I get out of this bigoted country.
¦18th. — We arrived at Bologna -a little before four, and proceeded
with our soldier, whom Baird calls < the defender of the faith,' to the
custom-house, but the- office was shut. The people were very civil,
and advised us to leave the sealed trunk until to-morrow, which we
did, and then drove to the hotel, 'Three Moors,' where we were ex
tremely well accommodated.
First Month 19th. — I had to go to the custom-house to recover my
trunk, and after a great many forms had been gone through, a paper
was given me which is to be delivered at Castel Franco, the frontier of
the Pope's dominions. About a quarter-past eleven we started. The
frees are uniformly cut into a forked shape, and the vine branches are
made to hang like, festoons from tree to tree. Our road is the ancient
Emilian Way. We had not much trouble at Castel Franco ; a soldier
was sent to walk by our side, until we got over the Pope's frontier.
We lodged at Modena, the following night at Parma, and the 21st at
Placenza. My mind was sweetly and comfortably stayed, with pros
pects of future service and encouraging feelings.
22nd.. — We started about six, and afterwards crossed the Po, a
considerable river, about a quarter of a mile broad, on a long wooden
bridge, supported by boats ; after breakfasting at Lodi, we went to see
the famous bridge which Bonaparte forced in the beginning of his career.
It seemsthatin the low wet ground-on our right, a great deal of rice
is cultivated. In this country they adopt the system of trellises for the
vines. A little after five we arrived at fhe gate of Milan, a large city,
containing one hundred and thirty thousand inhabitants. We drove
to the hotel, the 'Grande Bretagne,' which is like a little town; the
beds are excellent.
23rd. — I went to deliver a letter from Tartini, of Florence, to Signor
Courit Frederigo Confalonieri ; he is an e^pellent young man, and one of
the chief in the school concern here ; he is also a scientific character ; he
received me with. the greatest frankness, and even affection, and offered
to go round with me and show me every thing which I wished to see.
I left him for about an hour, and went in search of Barzoni, who I
found was at Brescia. On- my return the; Count had several of his
friends with him ; there was Monpiani, a very nice feeling man, who
has much to do with the schools, and fives at Brescia; Giovanni
Battista Ducca, a physician who is connected with the Lunatic Asylum,
and is about to travel in Russia, arid to the borders of China, for seven
or eight years ; and Joseph Pecchia, secretary of the School Society.
I had miich conversation with them, and got on well with my French.
We all went to the Foundling Hospital, near which they have fitted
Vot.. T. 30

466 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1820.
up a school-room for three hundred boys upon the British system. At
first the Austrian government" opposed it, but the committee have at
last prevailed. It is a most capital room, but the school is scarcely
established yet ; they have formed a society and received, subscrip
tions. Hence, they took me, as they said, to see a very fine view, the
day being remarkably bright and clear, but I soon found myself at the
door of their magnificent Cathedral ; I gave them my reasons for wishing
to decline entering, because I could not take off my hat, but they insisted
on my going in, saying the people were liberal, and no one said any
thing, though some looked very hard at me. There is not such another
edifice in the whole world ; it is built of marble from the Alps, arid is
in the Gothic style, most richly ornamented with carving, both without
and within; the very pinnacles were highly finished. There are-above
two thousand stone figures, many of them colossal ; if is only inferior
in size to ' St. Peter's,' at Rome. I never saw any thing so grand as
the external decorations ; the view from the top is magnificent^ and
perhaps unique. Milan lay at our feet, and the extensive flat plains of
Lombardy were stretched out to the feet of the Alps, which we saw
distinctly in the horizon. Mount Rosa appeared the highest^ next to it,
on the right, Mount Simplon, and next Mount St. Bernard, with many
others. In the interior of the Cathedral were several places parted off,
in which a number of boys were seated, and a person was addressing
them, apparently with great earnestness. The Count next 'proceeded
to show us the promenade, a Very broad street with excellent houses,
and a good footway of flag-stones ; it makes a circuit round the city of
nine miles, and we see the Alps in the horizon. I returned to the inn
to dinner, and in the evening the Count came with his friend Monpiani,
and we had much conversation on religious and othes subjects. I gave
him Barclay's- Apology in French, and tracts to both of them ; Ialso
lent them the Tver plan, the plan for a girls' school at Petersburg, the
list of texts, and the prison plan, to copy.
First Month 24th.— Dr. Ducca called, and afterwards Count Confa
lonieri, who went with us to the great* hospital ; hence we proceeded
to the Count's school, on our system, which is very near his own
house: it is for 200 children, but at present there are only 140; they
purpose to have a girls' school as soon as possible. I was exceedingly
pleased with this establishment.
We next went to the House of Correction; only part -of the plan,
which originated with Joseph II. is accomplished ; it is evident that it
was intended to be on the same excellent construction as the prison at
Ghent, which was also constructed in his reign, but his successors have
altered the plan, and also re-enacted the punishment of death, which
this humane Emperor had abolished. Hence he took me to the Observa
tory, which is a large establishment. I went, by appointment, to dine

1820.

OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 467

at Count Porro's, where we had Count'Confalonieri, and a party of about
a dozen, liberal-minded men, who, if the nature of their government
admitted of it, would do much good. Monpiani was also there. I was
much pleased and satisfied with this visit, and they appeared delighted
with the thoughts of opening a communication. They will transmit all
the information we Want about prisons, &c. I am glad that I returned
through Italy. I retired about seven to the inn. A young Greek, of
Cephalonia, who has been studying physic at Pavia, called upon me ;
he is very desirous of introducing our school system for the poor, into
his island, his name is Stamatello Pylarinos. About nine o'clock,
Count Confalonieri and Monpiani came in to take leave, and to return
the prison plan, &c, we had some serious conversation on religion, and
parted-in much love."
The following morning the travellers left Milan, and, in the course
of the journey, W. Allen mentions seeing much Indian corn cultivated.
He notices, in several places, the houses having paper, instead of glass,
for windows. They reached Turin on the 27th instant, but he says,
"This is a very tedious way of travelling." At Turin, he writes —
" I sent our coachman to find out one of the Waldenses, as he said
he was acquainted with some of them, and he returned with Jean Mon
astier, who says that there are from one hundred and fifty to two hundred
protestants in this place, that a pastor comes to preach to them once a
fortnight, on a first-day, and that he is a very pious man.
The great bulk of the Walderises live in three valleys, not far from
Pignerol ; Monastier says that all their children are taught to read, and
that they have a school upon the British system. They are mostly agri
culturists and little proprietors of land ; they are not persecuted at present,
but are permitted to purchase land, which was not the case before the
time of Bonaparte ; they are, in general, very poor, and they receive
pecuniary help from England. I gave Monastier several books and
tracts. I find that in the valleys the inhabitants speak French. Con-
falohieri's friend, to whom I had brought a letter, came to our inn ; his
name is Andre Mustoxide, he is a literary character, and is publishing
a work on Herodotus ; he is a warm-hearted young man, and we were
mututally glad to become acquainted. He says, that if I could have
staid two or three days, he Would have introduced me to the heir
apparent of Sardinia, who lives here, the Prince Carriniari ; he states
him to be of liberal sentiments. Mustoxide offers to procure for me all
the information I want respecting schools, prisons, &c, both of this
place, and of Naples, Venice, and Trieste, if I will but send him, from
London, an account of what I wish : he has an intimate friend in Lon
don who is a Greek, and much interested about the Ionian Islands: I
must find him out on my return. I gave Mustoxide several books and
tracts, and he took a cordial leave of me.

468 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1820.
First Month 28th.— We left the disagreeable inn at Turin, before it
was quite light, and, at half-past six in the evening, arrived at Suza,
where we lodged* The next morning we proceeded to the pass of
Mount Cenis, and went through an archway made by Bonaparte, at the
entrance of this famous pass. I had anxiously wished for a fine day,
as in that case the prospects would have been exfrernely grand, and the
risk far less, but the weather was misty and cloudy. The road here is
at least ten yards broad, and we soon Saw tfie effect of Napoleon's
genius ; this pass was formerly very dangerous, and very toilsome, but
his engineers have now made it as easy and as safe as it is possible to
make it, under the circumstances of the case^, the precipice is mostly
defended by a low stone wall, or by square pillars, connected together
by very strong wooden bars. In the rocks by the side of the road the
innumerable marks of the boring, by which they were blasted, bear
ample testimony to the prodigious labour which has been bestowed; in
some parts there are fine stalactites, or pillars pf ice, and_against the
perpendicujar face of one of the rocks, there is a collection of columns
of icicles, about one hundred feet high. It looks as if a vast river had
been pouring down, and had become suddenly frozen ; the shorter
columns below, look very rriuch like the boiling up of the water, in
consequence of falling from such a height : part of it was of a sky blue
colour. This was a magnificent spectacle, and is the' finest thing of
the kind we have yet seen. On looking down over the edge of the
precipice, notwithstanding the mist, we can see the road we have
travelled, for a considerable distance, and its turnings and windings are
very curious. The pigmy horses and carriages toiling up below us, had
a prettjy appearance.
At half-past eleven we arrived at the top of the pass ; here is a sort
of plain five or six miles long ; though this is the highest part of the
pass, it is by no means the top of Mount Cenis — the prospect must be
grand indeed in fine weather.. In descending, we saw drifted snow
.upon shelving rocks, overhanging us, so I see how avalanches are
formed. We lodged at Lans le Bourg. . This country is said to be
too cold for wheat, and the inhabitants cultivate only rye, but there is
a great deal of pasture land.
First Month 30th — We put up at a neat good house, at St. Jean de
.Maurienne, and as Baird is anxious to reach Chamberry to-morrow
^night, we settled to start early.
31st. — We set off by moonlight between three and four; as we
approached La Chapelle, the rising sun beautifully gilded the snowy
tops of the Alps; as we advanced, there was a greater appearance of
cultivation. I got out of the carriage, and walked about two miles,
and, as the horses proceeded so slowly, I was soon considerably ahead
of them, and had, I trust, some sweet communion with the Source of

1820.

OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 469

all good. As the evening approached, we, reached the bridge over the
Isere, from which we saw Mont Blanc, still beautifully reflecting some
of the last beams of day. The moon rose, as we approached Cham-
berry, which we entered a little after eight. My fellow traveller wishing
to reach England as soon as possible, has taken his place in the dili
gence which starts to-morrow for Paris.
Second Month 1st — As I was rising this morning, the servant, Ste
phen, told me that there was a report of the death of the Duke of Kent,
but I could learn no particulars ; if true, it will be a great public loss,
and particularly to the British and Foreign School Society.*
We left Chamberry about half-past seven ; I had a good deal of
secret support and consolation this morning; lodged at Frangy, and
the next day, as I rode along, my mind was contrited and filled with
peace. Praises sprang up to my dear Lord, who has secretly supported
me hitherto under all my afflictions, the depth of some of which he only
knows. On driving through Geneva, all my tender feelings were aroused in
the recollection of coming here with my precious Charlotte, my ever
dear companion, on the eve of my great loss, and it affected me much,
but all sustaining help was near.
I reached, Secheron about two o'clock,, and, putting up at Dejean's,
sent to Professor Pictet for my letters ; in about an hour they arrived,
and, relieved my anxiety much about home. I afterwards went to see
Mary Ann Vernet; her sisterly kindness to me in my great affliction,
has for ever endeared her to me ; I met with a most cordial reception,
and, after sitting some time with her, returned to the inn.
Third Month ~2nd.^ — Professor Pictet called, and afterwards Dr.
Marcet, with'whom I walked into Geneva. Dined with M. A. Vernet,
her husband, children, and grand-children ; Pictet also dined with us.
M. A. V. and I had much conversation about Robert Owen; it is very
remarkable, that, in parting, he desired her to pray for him. In the
evening Pictet took me to the Natural Philosophy Society, where I met
my dear friend De la Rive, also Prevot, father and son, and many
others, as Decandole, the botanist, the blind Huber, who has written
such an excellent book on bees, Saussure, and Necker. On returning
to the inn, I wrote a letter to my dear child, and one to S. Grellet,
directed to Lausanne: — I hope he will be here soon. I have had a
good deal of inward support to-day, although my spirits have been very
low. Second Month 4th. — I took a walk to Geneva, and went direct to
M. A. Vernet : showed her the German and Italian Scripture Lessons
for our schools, the plan for district visiting at Tver, and other papers.
After some very interesting conversation, her son, Charles, conducted
* William Allen afterwards learnt, with sincere sorrow, that this rumour was correct.

470 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1820.
me to Dr. Marcet's ; he lives in the same house, a fine large building,
formerly occupied by Theodore de Saussure. Marcet.tbok me to hear
a lecture of De la Rive's upon light and electricity — it was a very ex
cellent one ; here I met with Count Orloff, who wished me to come and
dine with him, and talk about Russia ; he says that he has adopted our
system of mutual instruction upon his estates. After the lecture, I went
to Dr. Marcet's to dinner, met Pictet and.De la -Rive, and we were a
very comfortable little party. De la Rive and Marcet had to attend at
the House of Representatives, and I walked back to Secheron.
M. A." Vernet told me of a most interesting establishment for poor
girls, at Locle, formed by a pious young woman, of no property, but
rich in faith.
The following is extracted from the account which M. A. V. procured
from this excellent person, whose name is Marie Anne Calame : —
' Having often visited the poor, and devised nieans of being useful
to them, above all, in improving their morals, the neglect of which is,
too often, the cause of their misery, the Lord put into my heart an
ardent desire to become,, in his hands, an instrument which he might
be pleased to employ, to save some of those souls which appeared to
me to be almost lost. Warmed therefore with love for these young
ones, I formed a project for withdrawing them, at least, from the influ
ence of the bad example which they met with under the parental roof,
by establishing an institution for poor girls, in which, morals and indus
try should take the place of vice, and the name of our Divine Master.
be acknowledged. I associated with me twelve ladies, whom I thought
calculated to second my views, and share my labours. It was in the
year 1815 that we made a collection in the commune, which enabled
us to rescue five children from misery ; the degree of distress, and the
urgency of' the case, decide the admission. Eighty-nine children have
been received in "the whole ; the concern is entirely managed by females.
The religious instruction is very simple, and is conveyed in the form of
conversation, when the directress is in the midst of the children in an
evening. They frequently read both in the Old and New Testament,
but-more frequently the latter; and when the directress is present, she
sometimes comments upon what is, read. The chief mistress also usually
has a little conversation with them, on serious subjects, of an evening.
The children are taught sewing, knitting, &c.
There is no committee of finance, there being no funds but those of
providence ; at the end of the year I render an account to the public,
I also keep an account of the earnings of each child. -All the lessons
are given upon the principle of mutual instruction/ The age at which
the children are to leave the institution is not fixed.'
Second Month 5th. — I had a boy from the inn to show me the way
to Sacconet, and, having procured the key of the burial ground, I went

1820.

OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 471

in by myself, and had a solemn time at the grave of my dearly beloved
and precious Charlotte. I was very much broken and contrited, but
still my mind was supported by the unshaken conviction that her dear
spirit had entered, into the joy of her Lord, and I prayed that I might
be enabled to dedicate the remainder of my days to his service, that
when he should be pleased to say, ' It is enough,' I might joyfully meet
my beloved companion, never more to be separated. 0, that faith and
patience may hold out to the end ! and that, in my future stoppings, I
may be preserved from doing any thing which should injure the cause
of truth and righteousness in the earth. I staid in the aground about
three-quarters of an hour, and it required an effort at last to leave the
spot. Pictet gave an excellent lecture on caloric, which I attended. After
it was over, M. A. Vernet accompanied me to find out the Widow
Auriere, who is, I think, the sister of Amy Argand, the inventor of the
lamp ; she is quite blind. We returned to Professor Pictet's, to dinner,
and had not been long seated when I was called out, and behold it
was dear Stephen, who had arrived, and has taken up his quarters at
the Ecu de Geneve.- He came in to dine with us, and gave me an
account of his proceedings since we parted ; he has had an interview
with the Pope, and with the King of Wurtemberg, to great satisfaction.
There will be much work for us on our return to London, in improving
the openings made.
Second Month 6th. — Stephen read to me the memorandums of his
proceedings, which are cause of humble thankfulness; he says that
there is a precious people at Munich, and at Stuttgard, and that they
are, deepened in the life of religion since he saw them before. We had
a sweet time of retirement, in which we were refreshed by a renewed
feeling of divine love. We walked to Geneva in the afternoon, and
took tea with Pastor Molinie ; we found Pastor du Mallet with him ;
they seem tender-spirited men; a few pious friends came to meet us,
and we sat down together in, silence ; there was a solemn covering, and
the precious life soon rose into dominion; Stephen spoke at some
length, and also interpreted for me. The people seemed loth to sepa
rate, and took leave of us in a very affectionate manner.
1th.— 1 called .upon Dr. de Roches, who is one of the most active
in the schools here upon the British system; he took me first to the
girls' school, where we found his wife, who seems to take great interest
in it. We afterwards visited fhe boys', which has been established
about two years, -and they say the children make much more rapid pro
gress than upon the old plan. In the afternoon De la Rive conducted
me to some of the hospitals; we had some conversation on religious
subjects, and I gave him ' Brief Remarks,' and other tracts.
8th.  Stephen and I went together, by appointment, to the prison ;

472 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1820.

.

Aubanel, who has the care of it, is designated by my dear friend,.
M. A. Vernet, as a man entirely devoted to the important task, from
religious principle. Sir Francis d'lvernois accompanied us through the
prison. I was pleased with the countenance of one of the committee,'
who was afterwards at one of the meetings of pious persons which we
held in this city, and who, in a very tender manner, spoke of his reli
gious. experience. , ,
Second Month 9th.— We met about fifteen or sixteen of this descrip
tion this evening ; the baptizing power of truth remarkably prevailed ;
we both had something to communicate, and I felt sweet peace after
wards. There is surely a seed in this place.
10th. — Charles Vernet and I went some miles into the country, to a
place called Satigny, to see a pious young man, Pastor Gossin, who
lost his wife about a year ago, but seems to bear the stroke with Chris
tian resignation ; he has a school for boys and girls, mostly upon our
plan. The pastor is mainly anxious to have, them grounded^ in the
Christian religion. If the Scripture Lessons be printed in French, I
must send him a copy.
In the evening I walked to Geneva, and met dear S. Grellet at a
private religious meeting, at the house of the Pastor de Moliere. De
Moulinie met us, and we had a very favoured season. I accompanied
Stephen to his inn, and parted from him with much affection, hoping
to receive him soon in London. , He sets off early to-morrow morning.
11th  I called on my dear friend M. A. Vernet, and met Aubanel,
Pierrot, and a magistrate of Neufchatel, who spends most of his time in
doing good. Professor Pictet came in arid took me away to a lady
named Romiliy, a relation of poor Sir Samuel, who has a remarkable
talent for taking likenesses, and she took mine. I then went to several
places with Charles Vernet, and dined with Sir Francis d'lvernois,
where I met Tronchin, &c, and had to answer interrogations on the
subject of prisons. In the afternoon, I went to M. A. Vernet, to take
leave, and it was a solemn parting ; her husband, and Professor Pictet,
waited as long as they could, in hopes of seeing me, and then went to
the council, as there was a question under discussion which interested
them very much. Vernet, however, was not easy without coming*
home, and I was truly glad to see him. He is one of the most active
in the Bible Society here, and is not tainted with the Socinian princi
ples, which so lamentably prevail at Geneva, even among some of the
pastors themselves. As we were conversing together, I felt the precious
covering of divine love spreading over us, and requested that we might
sit a little together in silence, which was readily complied with ; soon
after, I believed it my place ,to kneel down, and supplicate for this
dear family, and I thought that the power of the Spirit' attended. M.
A, V was much affected. We had a little pause afterwards, when her

1820. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 473
husband rose, and took me affectionately by the hand, saying, that he
understood every word, and was indeed glad that he had come back.
We took leave of each other, under feelings which, I believe, will be
long remembered. Dear Charles accompanied me to Secheron. I had
sweet peace in this engagement.
Second Month 12th. — I left Secheron about seven o'clock, in a Ger
man chariot, which I bought here ; my mind was absorbed with serious
reflections, and was anchored in the feeling of peace ; I longed to have
my dear child by my side. The rising sun most beautifully gilded the
snowy tops of the mountains nearest to us, but the distant ones were
hid by clouds. At Bellegarde we passed a bridge, in the middle of
Which is the boundary mark between the Swiss Republic and France.
The Perte du Rhone is only about a ten minutes' walk from hence, so
I went to see it; in one part, about two hundred yards in length, over
which there is a bridge, the rocks appear to have fallen in, in such a
manner, as to conceal the river. The douaniers were cross ; I, how
ever, gave them smooth words, and they behaved pretty well, though
they made a vigorous search in the carriage ; they grumbled a little at
the number of pamphlets, but let them pass. I gave two of them the
« Thoughts on the Importance of Religion ;' one of them read a little
and said he supposed it was something philosophical, in which I did
not undeceive him, but left him to study it at his leisure. Our ride
among the mountains was -very picturesque.
14th. — We arrived at Chalons sur Soane, a large city, between one
and two o'clock, and at St. Leger about four. We are now quite in
the hill country, and there is a beautiful prospect on our right. My
mind has been secretly comforted, and favoured with sweet and inex
pressible peace. Praises arose to Him who alone is worthy."
The fine mountain scenery continued for a considerable distance, but
William Allen remarks, " the houses and people seem poor." On the
I6th, after passing Chatelet, he again mentions being favoured with a
feeling of peace, and writes —
" I have often, to-day, thought of that beautiful figure of speech of
the inspired prophet — ' The mountains and the hills shall break forth
before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their
hands,' and yet the circumstances under which I passed this road, in
1816, are ever present with me.
Second Month 11th.— This morning, a little after eleven, we arrived
at Paris, and went to Meurice's Hotel, Rue St. Honore, where I have
very comfortable rooms. I went in search of John Walker, whom I
found in the Rue de Regard, and sat some time with him, and his wife
and family.
18th.— I breakfasted at John Walker's, after which, he accompanied
me in several caffs. I found a letter at the post-office from my beloved

474 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1820.
child, giving a good account of health at home, which was a great
comfort, as I have been very thoughtful about my dear aged mother in
this sharp Weather.
About six o'clock, Meunier, a minister, for whom I had brought a
letter from Geneva, called, and we had much interesting conversation ;
I gave him a set of the peace pamphlets. I afterwards went to a con
versazione at Jomards's, where I found Count Lasterye and several
others ; Sydney Smith was amongst the number. I find that there are
eight schools upon the British system in Paris, and that now those in
France amount to upwards of fifteen hundred.
19th. — John Walker and I went a -little way out of Paris, on the
road to Ville Juif, to see the Bicetre. We found it a very large mass
of buildings, covering a great deal of ground, and containing gardens,
&.c. The whole establishment is for men, and there were in it, to-day,
three thousand, one hundred and seventy-eight. The principal part is
for the aged and infirm, for persons who have incurable diseases, and
for the insane ; there is also a prison, but, not knowing that a distinct
order was necessary, to gain admission, we were not provided with it.
John Walker, however, is to visit it, and write the particulars for our
prison committee. This institution- is. supported by the city of Paris,,
and not by the government, and is for the department of the Seine
only; it is in a healthy situation, and if it were under the care of a
committee, much good might be done ; attention is needed in several
departments. •
I dined with John Walker, and his wife, and spent two or three
hours very agreeably with this amiable family. Called on Count
Lasterye in the evening.
Second Month 20th. — Went, by appointment, to dine with Dominic
Andre, and his wife — they are benevolently disposed, and the latter is
very active in various charities. I met, here, Vincent St. Laurent, of
Nismes, secretary to the Bible Society ; Count Jerome de Velo^ a fine
young man, and a friend of Tartini and those at Florence ; Pastor
Juilleret ; he publishes a periodical work, called ' Archives,' of which
they gave me two numbers ; it is a sort of religious magazine ; Pastor
Monod, father and son ; the latter is secretary to the Bible Society.
There were some others also, and we had a satisfactory evening. We
parted with friendly feelings, and they all expressed regret at the
shortness of my stay at Paris. I am to send the ' Annals of Savings'
Banks,' and a set of the 'Philanthropist,' to Andre.
21st. — Count Lasterye called to take me to see the girls' school, in
the Hall au Draps. The room is spacious and airy. There were three
hundred and forty-four girls present, and the school is in excellent
order ; it is for Roman Catholics, and the Reading Lessons are adapted
to that class ; in all other respects, I was quite satisfied with the school.

1820. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 475
The mistress seems to be a very clever woman, and the children are
clean in -• their persons and clothes, though some of them are of the
poorest class.
I called on Benjamin Delessert, and saw both him and his brother
Francis ; he was very cordial, and gave me a number of printed reports
on prisons, hospitals, &c. ; he is an active member of the prison society.
I saw Didot the printer, and consulted him about printing the Scripture
Lessons in Italian, as a tract ; left that part with him on the life of our
Lord, and he is to make his calculation, and report to John Walker,
who will attend to the printing of them. Took a cordial leave of him
and his wife, and also called to take leave of pastor Munier,who seems
a pious young man.
I went to the Duke de Rochefocauld Laincourt, and had some con
versation with him about prisons, he being an active member of the
prison committee. I found him in full court dress, with a pile of
papers on his table, and his secretary taking directions. I must send
him prison reports, &c. Called on Baron Turcksheim, the deputy from
Alsace ; he seems to be a pious, excellent character, and showed me a
number of religious tracts, which were printed at Strasburg. He comes
from that city, and tells me that the middle class of society there are
very respectable and pious.
Second Month 22nd  Left Paris about six o'clock. I have been
favoured to feel sweet peace as I travelled along."
The following evening, on reaching Calais, W. A. writes —
" I feel reverently thankful in having been favoured to get so near
home in safety, and I was pleased to hear my servant make the same
remark, without my saying any thing to him on the subject.
24th. — I find that, though the wind is fair for us, it is so strong, and
the weather so stormy, that the captain is afraid to venture.
25^.— A dull morning, but the wind is fair. After breakfast we
went on board the Lord Duncan, and at half-past nine got off", with a
good steady breeze from the north-east. My mind was calm and peace
ful, though low, in refleqting upon the state of things in my own country,
and humbled in the feeling of my weakness. I am abundantly con
vinced that, in my own strength, as a rational creature, I can do nothing
to promote the dear Master's work, but I have faith to believe that,
through his spirit strengthening me, I can do all that he requires of me.
We came to anchor, at Dover, before one o'clock. I went to our kind
friends Thomas and Elizabeth Beck, who gave me a cordial welcome,
and I was thankful in being thus permitted to return to my native
country with sheaves of peace.
After dinner, T, B. kindly went to the custom-house and cleared
my baggage, while I accompanied his wife to see her school for about
fifty girls, just at the back of their house. It is very neat, and seems

476 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1820.
in a flourishing state. I gave the dear children a short exhortation.
Our friends wished very much to keep me till to-morrow morning, but
as I knew, by a letter which I found there, that my dear child, and my
brother Joseph, would be waiting for me at Rochester, I ordered a
post chaise, and set off' for Canterbury ; put up at the Fountain Inn.
-Second Month 26th.— Started -a little after five, and, at half-past eight
o'clock, arrived at the Crown Inn, Rochester, where I had the in
expressible pleasure of meeting my beloved child, and dear brother,
who came from London the evening before. Our hearts were filled
with humble gratitude, and with the blessed Saviour's peace ; my mind
was bowed in thankfulness to the Father of mercies, who had so
signally supported and preserved me in this arduous engagement, and
was restoring me to all that was dearest to me in life. I surrendered
up all into His hands, and he has returned it to me again with, interesti
We dined at Dartford, and passing through London, proceeded direct
to Dalston ; I found my dear aged mother in a feeble state, but quite
as well as I had any reason to expect ; she was contrited in humble
gratitude, and offered up thanksgivirig to the Almighty Preserver. After
taking tea with her, my brother Joseph drove usJo Stoke Newington,
where I was joyfully received by my dear sister, Anna Hanbury, and
the rest of the family."

, CHAPTER XV.
1820. — Friends' Address to the King — Engagements in the Ministry — Committee on Capital
Punishments — Attends the Yearly Meeting in Dublin — Lectures at the Hospital resumed
— Foreign Correspondence, &c.
"Second Month 21th, 1820. — First-day. At our forenoon meeting
this day, after dear Elizabeth J. Fry had offered up a solemn supplica
tion, I ventured to follow in thanksgiving.
28r7i. — Engaged in town during most of the day, calling on N. Van
sittart, Count Lieven, &c. : also in endeavouring to procure a circular
instrument for the Grand Duke of Tuscany.
Third Month 1st — Our meeting ' for worship was, to me, a solemn
time l Cornelius had something to express amongst us, and E. J. Fry,
and M. Sanderson were instructively engaged in ministry. I ought to
have spoken early, but was afraid ; at length, however, I ventured to
do so. Our select meeting (of ministers and elders,) was held after
wards ; it was a heavenly season, and we were sweetly comforted in
our divine Master's love.
3rd — Meeting for Sufferings ; a very satisfactory time ; my own
mind was. bowed in reverent thankfulness, on being-favoured once more
to sit with Friends in this meeting, and I had to acknowledge publicly

1820. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 477
to the goodness of Israel's Shepherd. A committee, appointed for the
purpose, brought in a draft of an address to the King (George IV.),
on his accession, which, with some alterations, was adopted : a com
mittee of fourteen Friends was appointed to present it, and the meeting
adjourned, in order to sign the fair copy next second-day. Dear
Thomas Clarkson is our visitor at Plough Court."
On the 5th, in reviewing the week, W. A. remarks —
"My mind has been generally filled with sweetness and peace. I
have ventured to speak publicly as a minister. May the blessed Master
preserve me from bringing any reproach upon his holy cause, keep me
from going too fast, or from lagging behind. I believe that the com
mand has gone forth to me, ' Feed my sheep.'
Third Month 6th. — Adjourned Meeting for Sufferings. The address
to the King was signed. At one o'clock I went to the committee on
the business of a late lamented personage, and afterwards to the Prison
Committee at Samuel Hoare's, where a very interesting letter from
Petersburg was read,
1th  I called on the Marquis Ricardi, of Florence, respecting schools.
Then went to Lord Sidmouth about Friends' address,
8th. — Our Monthly Meeting. I returned my certificate with an
acknowledgment of the mercies received.
9th. — After attending to some engagements in business, I went to
the Marquis Ricardi's, Leicester Square, and at four o'clock, I set off
with Cunningham, to Kensington, to dine with Wilberforce. The
Bishop of Gloucester and the Dean of Carlisle were also there.
IQth. — I cleaned the instrument in the observatory, and afterwards
Mary and I dined at Samuel Hoare's, at Hampstead.
11th.  We had a very satisfactory school committee, at the Borough
Road ; and thence.I went to dine at N. Vansittart,s, with Sir Alexander
Johnston, &c, &c.
13th  At the 'Morning Meeting' we were favoured with a solemn
quiet, and I believe some of us felt sweet union and communion in the
blessed Head of the Church.
14th.— Went to the Horticultural Society, then called upon Steinkopff,
and at 54, Poland Street, to see Count Lasterye.
19th.— Review of the week: I ventured to speak in our meeting on
fourth-day, and again to-day. I seem to have repeated evidence that
the Lord is calling me to public service ; but I am often much afraid,
and desire never to speak in His name, but when He is graciously
pleased to furnish the power, without which the best chosen words are
only as the sounding brass, or tinkling cymbal. On seventh-day, the
18th, when, together with Thomas Pitt and J. Kirkland, I administered
to the estate of a deceased illustrious person, at Doctors' Commons, I
entered my protest against the following title of the Archbishop of

478 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1820.
Canterbury, viz., 'The most Reverend Father in God,' and left it on
record, after my signature of the bond.
Third Month 20th.— I accompanied the Marquis Ricardi, and two
other gentlemen, who knew a greal deal about the Ionian Islands, to
see the Borough Road School ; they are much delighted with it.
21st  Mary and I went with Rebecca Christy and Ann Crowley, to
the Monthly Meeting, held at PJaistow. I had to express something in
the meeting for worship, and felt peace in doing so ; the meeting was,
on the whole, satisfactory. We dined at Samuel Gurney's, and after
wards had a favoured religious communication from A. Crowley,
followed by a sweet address from our precious E. J. Fry. I then
ventured to offer supplication ; there was a sweet feeling over us.
23rd. — Attended Ratcliff Meeting, and on my return to the city, I
heard that dear Stephen Grellet had landed safely at Dover.
24$.— Stephen arrived this morning at Plough Court. We had a
joyful meeting.
26th. — First-day; at our meeting in the forenoon, A. Crowley spoke
excellently in the ministry, and S. Grellet in supplication. In the
afternoon I went with S. G., to Devonshire House Meeting.
30th. — I went with dear Stephen to the west end of the town ; we
called on the Wurtemberg and Bavarian Ministers, also on Baron
Sternicle, the Swedish Minister. Saw Count Lieven, and called at
Vansittart's and Lord Sidmouth's, but they were both out; afterwards,
I went to the Borough Road to attend the committee, and the examina
tion of some boys in the higher classes.
Fourth Month 1st. — Committee at ten, on Friends af Pyrmont, Min
den, Congenies, Stavanger, &c. First-day morning went with S.
Grellet to Southwark meeting. At our own meeting, at Gracechurch
Street, in the afternoon, I spoke near the close, and had peace. In the
evening, S. G. and I attended a meeting at Southwark, appointed at
the request of M. Dudley; — a satisfactory time.
Fourth Month 6th  Had a committee on capital punishments, at
Plough Court. The members dined with me there. The company
consisted of Sir Alexander Johnston, the three Forsters, S. Woods, S.
Hoare, Junr., B. Montague and his friend. Also Wagner, the minister
from Wurtemberg. At E. J. Fry's request we adjourned to Mildred
Court to tea.
1th. — Making experiments in the laboratory for the business of
Severn, King, and Co.
8th. — I went to the west erid of the town to call on Lord Sidmouth,
Count Lieven, &c. ¦
10th. — After the Marquis Pucci and T. S. Buckle had dined with us
at Plough Court, I took them to the Borough Road School.
11th  Attended at Guildhall on the trial between Severn, King, and

1820. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 479
Co., and the Imperial Fire Office. I was standing from ten in the
morning until half-past five, when the evidence for the plaintiff closed.
12th. — At Guildhall again ; got a seat. Defendant's evidence closed
about six.
13th. — At Guildhall ; got a seat again with J. T. Barry, among the
counsellors. Trial over about five, in favour of the plaintiff, for which
I felt very thankful.
14th. — Went to Karslake's to meet Kirkland and Pitt. I had in
tended to leave home to-day, for Dublin, with my dear Mary, but was
prevented by the business with them.
15th. — I went to Lincoln's Inn, to see Preston, the solicitor, on the
same business ; also to Coutts and Co.'s. In the afternoon I set off
with my dear Mary, and proceeded as far as High Wycombe.
16th. — At meeting, this forenoon, I ventured to express a few words
towards the close."
On the following day, W. A. and his daughter went forward to
• Samuel Lloyd's, near Birmingham, where they met their beloved
friend, Stephen Grellet. In the evening they had the companyof sev
eral friends, besides the large family circle, by whom they were very
kindly entertained ; and W. A. mentions, that both Stephen and he
felt constrained to express their christian solicitude for the religious
welfare of those present. On the 18th, they pursued their journey in
company with S. Grellet, stopping at Wednesbury to visit a school
that had recently been established by Samuel Lloyd, Junr., and which
W. A. remarks was' " in very good order." Proceeding through
Wolverhampton and Shifnal, they reached Coalbrookdale in the even
ing, and were affectioriately welcomed by their dear friends, Barnard
and Ann Dickinson. At this place, they attended the Half- Year's
Meeting for Wales, which W. A. describes as a solemn and instructive
one. They also had a meeting with the younger Friends of that dis
trict, in which Stephen and W. A., with several others, were engaged
in the ministry, "a precious degree of solemnity being generally felt."
From Coalbrookdale they set off on the evening of the 20th, and
reached Llangollen, where they lodged, and the next morning rode
through a beautiful country to Bangor., W. A. notices*the pleasantness
of this morning's journey, and adds —
" My mind was humbled under the sweet influence of divine good ;
and I was renewedly convinced of the certainty of my call to take a
part in the work of the ministry."
They crossed the Menai Strait, and arrived in the evening at Holy
head. On the 22nd, they went at 9 A. M., on board the Talbot, a
fine-boat, and one of the first packets worked by steam between Eng
land and Ireland ; this was nearly her earliest trip. It was a fine calm
day. W. A. remarks —

480 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1820.
"Dear Stephen went down to his berth, but Mary and I staid upon
deck, and the motion of the vessel, though at the rate of eight miles
an hour, was so steady, that the deck was like a floor of the room. We
read together some of Olney Hymns. About five o'clock we got into
the harbour of Howth, and landed upon a very fine pier. Here Jona
than Pirn and Charles Bewley were kindly watching for us, with J.
P.'s car. A cart was also waiting to take all the passengers' luggage
to the custom-house to be examined. We had to stay an hour and a
half before ours was liberated, but the officer was very civil. We took
something for dinner at a dirty house close by, and then Charles Bew
ley drove us and our baggage fo Jonathan Pirn's, William-street, Dublin.
My spirits were low, and not much mended by seeing a considerable
number of poor ragged Objects on the road.
Fourth Month 23rd. — First-day. Still very fine weather, and I
rejoiced to observe that the wind is the right way for dear William
Forster, jun.-, who has sailed for America. Attended the two meet
ings here to-day, and in the evening visited some individuals who were
under- affliction, to whom the word of consolation flowed.
24th. — Wind still favourable for dear W. F. I felt a little inward
support this morning. After breakfast, Samuel Bewley called to con
duct me to the school society house in Kildare Street. It is a very
large substantial building of granite. The number of schools which
have received assistance from this society, or which have been instituted
by it, amounts to about five hundred and twenty.1 The committee
meets once a month, and a regular correspondence is kept up with the
whole of Ireland. I was particularly pleased with their system of pub
lishing small interesting books for school libraries; which are intended
to supersede those pernicious publications, that are at present so gene
rally circulated amongst the poor. In the books issued by this society,
which already amount to eighty volumes, everything sectarian in
religion is avoided. The model and training school is establishedhere ;
it numbers' about two hundred boys, and one hundred and fifty girls;
In the afternoon Robert Fayle took me to visit the Richmond Bridewell
Prison, a large granite building, erected about seven years ago. We
were shocked with the riotous behaviour of the male prisoners ; about
eighty out of one hundred and twenty were quite boys ; they were in
a most disgraceful state of insubordination. Some of the women had
also been breaking the windows. ' There is a general want of classifi
cation. 25th.— Attended the meeting for worship at ten ; afterwards went
with Samuel Bewley to the school ; dined at James Pirn's, and, in the
evening, rode to Samuel Bewley's, a beautiful situation, five miles from
the city, where we lodged."
On the two following days, W. A. visited several public institutions ;

1820. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 481
amongst them, the Mendicity House, the Retreat for Insane Persons,
Kilmainham jail, and.called on Dr. Brinkley, at the observatory in the
Phoenix Park, and examined the telescopes and microscopes, which he
found might be much improved, and suggested the needful alterations.
Fourth Month 28th. — W. A. continues his journal, noticing the
attendance of the usual meeting for worship, in which, he says —
" Dear Stephen was silent, but I had something to offer on the text,
' What shall they do who are baptized for the dead.' I pointed to the
only way by which we can be raised out of a state of death, by Him,
who said ' He that believeth on me, though he were dead, yet shall he
live.' After meeting I had a long walk to the House of Industry, the
Penitentiary, and the Asylum for Orphan Girls ; and Robert Fayle, who
is much interested about prison discipline, took me to attend their pri
son committee in Sackville Street. Dined at William Harding's.
29th  Samuel Bewley called early, to take me to Kildare Street to
breakfast, with their school committee ; I was much pleased' to see so
many respectable persons taking an interest in this great and good
work." On this day, the Yearly Meeting for Friends of Ireland commenced;
and, during the following week, the attendance of the several meetings
for worship and discipline, occupied closely the time and interest of
the members of our religious society, who were assembled in Dublin.
W. A. notices, on several occasions, the extension of divine good,
particularly on the last day of their stay in that city. It was first-day,
the 7th of Fifth Month. In reference to a favoured meeting in the
evening, he says —
" It felt to me a heavenly season, and I believe will be long remem
bered by many who were present."
S. Grellet and W. Allen were both engaged in the ministry on this
occasion. The next morning, 8th of Fifth Month, our travellers left Dublin.
W. A. writes—
" We breakfasted early with our dear hospitable friends Jonathan
and Eliza Pim ; the former, with several other friends, accompanied us
to Howth. My mind was very peaceful ; the wind contrary and weather
cloudy, with rain. The steamer started at five minutes past nine ; there
was a great deal of motion, and the wind and rain made it very
uncomfortable. Two young women friends were also passengers, viz.
Susanna Corder and Sarah Strangman. We arrived at Holyhead at
six, and we all dined together at Spencer's Hotel, where S. C. and S. S.
are intending to remain until the morning. Stephen, Mary, and I
proceeded in a chaise to Gwyndu.
Fifth Month 9th.— We rose early, and were in the chaise about half-
past six. My mind is calm and peaceful. We crossed the ferry and

482 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1820.
breakfasted at the nice inn, after which we had a pleasant ride through
a beautiful country, passing some extensive slate quarries, The weather
was fine, the trees in blossom, and the. foliage in all the freshness and
beauty of youth. Our minds being in unison, we enjoyed each other's
company. 10th  We arrived about six o'clock at Worcester, and were kindly-
received by Joseph Burlingham.
11th  Attended the Monthly Meeting. I had to revive the text,
'Blessed is that servant whom his Lord, when he cometh, shall find
watching,' showing the necessity of preparation, seeing that in an hour,.
when we think not, the Son of Man cometh. Dear Stephen spoke
afterwards. In the afternoon I visited the boys' school, upon our plan,
and examined a class in reading, &c. Stephen, Mary, and I, called
on several families of Friends. Some were faithfully warned and
invited ; and consolation was administered to a dear afflicted individual,
who had been long confined by illness."
On the 12th, leaving Worcester early in the morning, the travellers
proceeded towards London, and were favoured to arrive in safety at
Stoke -Newington on the evening of the 13th. In his memoranda of
this day, W. A. says —
" When near Wycombe, we went three miles out of the way to see
the children of my late dear friend Joseph Fox; they are under the
care of Michael Gibbs and his-wife, who resides at a pleasant spot
called Penn. After reaching home, I set off to walk to Dalston, to
see my dear mother, and had the comfort of finding her as well as
when I left her.
Fifth Month 14th. — First-day. To town with dear Stephen, sister
A. H., Mary, and Christine. In the forenoon meeting, Stephen only
was engaged in the ministry ; after the meeting, a deputation of the
Monthly Meeting called at Plough Court, to inform me, that on fourth-
day last, in a solemn conference, Friends had believed it right to
discharge me from the office of elder, and to record me as a minister
in unity. I am now placed in an awful situation. May the Great
Preserver of men be near to support and sustain under every trial, and
prevent me from doing anything which may injure his great and good
cause. I am indeed very low, and in much fear. In the afternoon I
went with Stephen Grellet and Louis Majolier* to the Peel Meeting; the
latter spoke in ministry, in French, and Stephen interpreted.
15/A.—S. Grellet and I went to the Bible house; we met there
with Steinkopff and John Owen. Afternoon, attended prison discipline
pommittee. 16^.— Low on waking this morning, but a little best help was
near. * See notice of this individual at page 16.

1820. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 483
11th, — Our meeting at Gracechurch Street rather larger than usual.
Stephen there, but silent. I afterwards went with T. F. Forster to the
General Meeting of the African Institution.
18th. — Attended the corresponding committee of the British and
Foreign School Society ; and in the evening went to the Royal Society,
to converse with Dr. Wollaston, on the case of Severn, King and Co.
19^A. — Spent the morning at Newington, and levelled my instrument;
then walked to Tottenham, and dined with Luke Howard. Called on
P. Bevan, on executorship business ; afterwards I walked back, stopping
to take tea at William Fry's, where, (during an opportunity of social
worship,) I felt constrained the address the young people present.
Fifth Month 21st. — In our forenoon meeting, Ann Alexander, of
York, spoke in testimony and supplication."
The succeeding two weeks were closely occupied by the attendance
of the Yearly Meeting; it was followed by various pressing engage
ments, and by the trial of separation from his much beloved friend
and fellow labourer, S. Grellet. On the 11th of Sixth Month W. A.
says —
" Besides the Yearly Meeting, I have had to attend the African Insti
tution, the School General Meeting, our Monthly Meeting, and have
been at times much depressed at my responsibility, in reference to the
important concerns of a deceased personage, and in addition to all this,
•I have had to part with dear Stephen Grellet. He left us on sixth-day
morning, going in company with George Stacey, to Leeds. On the
previous evening, Stephen, Rebecca Christy, Mary, and I, were, in a
time of religious worship, preciously baptized in spirit together, and
brought to resignation, and next morning this feeling was mercifully
renewed, and we parted in our great Master's fear and love. My
dear friend intends to sail for New York, at the beginning of the next
month. Sixth Month 12th. — Went to the prison discipline committee.
IZth. — Some comfort before rising, and a little access in prayer.
14th. — Prevented from being at meeting, by having to go in com
pany with John Elliott, and Richard Phillips, to meet Lord Sidmouth,
on some business of our religious society, on the Watch and Ward Act.
\5th. — Attended the corresponding committee of the British and
Foreign School. Then went to the Royal Society with W. H. Pepys.
l^th. — Went with Mary to Wandsworth to attend the interment of
Miller Christy. A solemn time, felt a little comfort and peace, and in
the night some access in prayer.
Sixth Month 29th  We parted with dear Christine, which was trying
to our feelings ; but best help was near. My dear child was sweetly
engaged in supplication on her account, and Rebecca Christy gave
good counsel on various points. Louis Majolier was present.

484 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1820.
Seventh Month 5th. — Monthly Meeting. I expressed something in
the first meeting ; a comfortable time. In the second, my mind
was pretty steadily fixed on the Lord. Wrote to Professor Pictet as
follows : — TO PROFESSOR PICTET, GENEVA.
"London, 1th of Seventh Month {July), 1820.
' " My Dear Friend,
" On my return home, on the 26th of the Second Month (February)
last, I had so many letters to read, and so much to do, that writing
letters seemed to be pretty much out of the question, and soon after the
arrival of my dear fellow-traveller, S. Grellet, we set off for Dublin,
where our Friends very kindly received us. In this excursion I took
my beloved child with me. A few days after we got back to London
the Yearly Meeting of our religious society commenced ; this, as usual,
engrossed almost the whole of my attention for two weeks, and since
that time I have been very fully engaged. I am but just beginning to write
to my foreign correspondents, and this is one of the first letters to them.
I dare say that you have all accused me of negligence, but indeed, my
dear friend, there is scarcely a day passes, without my thinking of you,
in some part of it. Thy dear daughter Vernet, her husband, and
Charles, feel very near to me in the fellowship of christian love ; many
others also, in your country and city, are very precious to me in affec
tionate remembrance ; and though far separated, as to the body, yet, as
we experience an union and communion with the great head of the
church, Jesus Christ our Lord, we shall still feel united in him. Let
us, my dear friend, instead of filling our heads with theories, and build
ing ingenious systems of religion, come, in the simplicity of little chil
dren, to the Saviour; cast down all crowns at his footstool; let us
surrender ourselves, and all that we have, to him, and submit to the
guidance of his good spirit ; then shall we be safely led through the
wilderness -of this world, and finally admitted as joyful inhabitants of
' that city, whose walls are salvation, and whose gates are praise.'
I purpose, in the course of a very few weeks, to send a communica
tion for the ' Bibliotheque Universel,' not a narrative of our journey,
but some sketches of plans for the prosecution of benevolent under
takings, to be afterwards followed up by extracts from the letters of our
correspondents in different parts of the world.
I am obliged by thy care of the box of books ; pray ask my good
friend Charles, if he will not be so kind as to make a catalogue of the
books, and put down the number of each, and send me a copy; they
may then be kept until I write again upon the subject.
I have just received very gratifying accounts from Russia, of the pro
gress of our plans. Please to present me very kindly to my dear friend
De la Rive, to Dr. Marcet and wife, to all thy household, to Professor

1820. OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 485
Prevpt, and to all our friends. Pray write soon to thy affectionate
friend William Allen."
" Seventh Month 1th.— A satisfactory Meeting for Sufferings. Re
ceived, to-day, from Contineas, a map of the colonies in South Russia.
8th — British and Foreign School Committee. Hon. J. C. Villiers
there. Dr. Paterson and Schwabe spent part of the day with me ;
some important conversation with them on subjects connected with
general good.
10th. — Went to Peter Bedford's, to attend a committee on the state
of Spitalfields. I am endeavouring to get an association formed there.
14th. — I accompanied the Marquis Pucci, to Newgate. E. J. Fry
read to about sixty female prisoners ; they seemed in excellent order.
The reading was followed by a solemn pause, and supplication from
E. J. Fry. The Marquis then went with Pepys and me to Flamstead
House, where we met Pond, Davy, &c.
Seventh Month 15th. — We had a special meeting of the British and
Foreign School Society, on the subject of Brougham's Education Bill,
against which a strong resolution was passed.
11th. — I attended the Mendicity Committee, Red Lion Square ; after
this, Marquis Pucci dined with me.
18th  Accompanied Thomas Christy, Josiah Messer, and Peter Bed
ford, to the Monthly Meeting at Plaistow, in which we were favoured
with a precious feeling of good. Afterwards I dined at Plashet, and
returned home in peace.
19th; — Went to Kingston Monthly Meeting, which also proved a
satisfactory one. Both yesterday and to-day I believed it right to speak
as a minister, and trust I was favoured with preservation.
20th. — Attended the meeting of the proprietors of the London Insti
tution. As I rode home this day to Stoke Newington, that text was
brought to my remembrance, ' He that reapeth receiveth wages,' and
my mind was filled with sweet peace.
22nd.— I went to Lord Guildford's, to' confer with him about schools
in Corfu.
23rd  In our forenoon meeting, I believed it right to speak on the
passage, ' I will pour water on him that is thirsty, &c.,' and to show the
blessedness of this seeking thirsting state. In the afternoon the meet
ing was silent, and after it I accompanied Mary Sanderson to see an
aged member of our meeting, Emma Swain, who appears near the close
of life.
24th.  Went, by appointment, to the- penitentiary at Milbank, met
Marquis Pucci there ; we thoroughly inspected the whole of the prison ;
then we walked to the New Bedlam, and carefully went over the whole
of it. From that place we proceeded to the Borough Road School, and
I left the Marquis there.

486 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1820.
25tfi._ Took boat to Whitehall, called on Lord Guildford about
schools for Corfu ; but found that he has no relish for Scripture Les
sons ; we must work without him. . Met the other administrators of a
deceased personage at Bennet Street.
28th  William Forster, sen., dined with us, and gave us an account
of the decease of dear George Dyllwyn, of Burlington, North America ;
thus one more is added to the church triumphant.
29th. — Collected minerals for Ringseis of Munich ; afterwards I cor
rected a proof sheet of Scripture Lessons in English.
Eighth Month 4th. — The Meeting for Sufferings was very satisfac
tory. Josiah Forster went with me to Plough Court, and after dinner,
we walked together to Bunhill Fields, to attend the interment of Emma
Swain ; there was a precious degree of solemnity felt at the grave side ;
Cornelius Hanbury and Mary Sanderson spoke.
9th. — At our week-day meeting, I said something on these words,
' This people have I formed for myself, and they shall show forth my
praise.' I was followed by Cornelius, M. Sanderson, and John Pim.
The meeting for discipline was very satisfactory.
10th. — I attended Tottenham Monthly Meeting, where I believed it
my place to revive the injunction, ' Use all diligence to make your
calling and election sure.'
12th. — I wrote six letters of recommendation for the Marquis Pucci,
who is going to Scotland ; then called to see our dear friend Joseph
Savory, who is indisposed.
13th. — I felt very low on going to meeting, but believed it required
of me to speak on the necessity of coming to Christ. Afternoon meet
ing silent. Called again on Joseph Savory, in company with M. San
derson. Finished a letter 'to Sir F. Adam, Governor of Corfu ; the
following is a copy: —
TO GENERAL SIR FREDERICK ADAM, CORFU.
"London, llthof Eighth Month, August, 1820.
" Esteemed Friend,
" I earnestly hoped to see thee, on thy return from Scotland, as thou
wast kind enough to give me reason to expect ; but I suppose that some
unforeseen circumstances may have rendered it impossible. Permit me,
now, to employ the only means left me, for bringing the important
subject of the general education of the poor, once more before thee ;, a
subject so intimately connected with human happiness, cannot but
claim thy attention in a very particular manner, and from what thou
wast pleased to express to me, when I was at Corfu, I am confident
that nothing will be neglected which is in thy power to do, to secure
so great a blessing to the inhabitants of the Ionian Isles; for I am quite
sure that the people are ready to adopt the plan proposed, in several of
the Islands. I have seen Lord Guildford, and am sorry to find that the

1820.

OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 487

translation and printing of the Scripture Lessons ceased as soon as I was
gone; I shall therefore endeavour to find some other channel of print
ing them. In the mean time the Greek Lessons brought from Paris
by Drs. Politiano and Politi, would be sufficient to begin with. I am
the more encouraged to write at the present time, because I understand
that the command at Corfu has devolved upon thee. In travelling
through Greece, I could not but be struck with the profound ignorance
in which the great mass of the people are sunk ; at the fraud, treachery,
and want of principle which prevail ; and at the same time I was con
vinced that they had naturally good dispositions and capacities, and
wanted nothing but an education in good principles. I saw also in the
Ionian Islands, that some attention had been paid to the subject, but that
large sums had been expended, and were expending, to very little pur
pose, for want of a right plan. Dr. Skey is in possession of those which
I suggested when at Corfu, and would readily and gladly put them into
thy hands. My firm conviction is, that if this great work shall be made a
government measure, and part of Lord Guildford's plan of a university,
that it will involve a prodigious expense, be very imperfectly executed,
and will fail at last. All that is wanted is, the countenance and sup
port of Government, to individuals, English and Greek, who may be
disposed to form a society, or association, for the formation of a model
school for boys, and one for girls ; the expenses to be defrayed by a
subscription. Drs. Politiano and Politi would, I am sure, take great
pleasure in training a master; and they have Lessons to begin with.
I have, according to thy request, sent one thousand slates and pencils,
under the care of Lieut. Edward Shewell, of the 32nd Regiment. Dr.
Politi, at Santa Maura, if encouraged by thee, would not fail to raise
subscriptions for a school there, and would be very thankful if thou
wouldst permit two hundred of the slates and pencils to be sent to him.
When I was at Zante, that excellent man, Sir Patrick Ross, told me
that he had a school-room ready, and that if I could contrive to furnish
him with a master, he would have a school upon the plan directly. This
might serve as a model for the whole of Zante ; and I know that if thou
wast to encourage Dr. Politi to train a master for him, and furnish him
with some of the slates and pencils now sent, the thing would be done ;
nothino- is wanted but the countenance of Government to the exertions
of individuals, and perhaps some assistance in the article of school
rooms. It might be suggested to the committee, that the parents of the
children should be made to contribute a trifle towards the expense, by
a weekly subscription. I have sent also, by Lieut. Shewell, a copy of
a book, published by our Prison Society of London, and No. 28, of the
Philanthropist, in which, at page 313, in the article on the State of the
Poor, my ideas, of the organization of voluntary societies for benevo
lent purposes, will be seen. Please to present me most cordially to

488 LIFE AND COBRESPONDENCE 1820.
Colonel Hemes ; his kindness to" me in my weak state, when at Corfu,
(with that of Dr. Skey, to whom I write by this opportunity,) has made
a deep impression upon my heart ; it would give me great pleasure to
receive from thee a few lines ; but if this is asking too much, I am
sure that Dr. Skey would readily perform the office of secretary. I
remain, with great regard and esteem, thine sincerely and respectfully,
William Allen."
"Plough Court, Lombard Street."
P.S  When I was at Malta, I was much pleased with attending a
committee of their School Society, which consists of some of the most
respectable of the inhabitants, and is deserving of every encouragement.
I have enclosed the bill for the slates, amounting to j624. 9s. 8d.
and as I am the treasurer of the British and Foreign School Society, I
shall be obliged by thy remitting a bill to me for that sum."
" Eighth Month 14th. — By Lieut. Shewell, who is going fo Corfu, I
also sent letters to Sir Patrick Ross, Dr. Skey, and Dr. Politi.
Eighth Month 16th. — Sarah Kilham is preparing to sail for Peters
burg. I am busily employed in assisting her, and in writing to some
of my friends of that country. Finished the following letter to B.
Papof. TO BASIL PAPOF, PETERSBURG. "London, l6thof8th Month, 1820.
" My dear Friend,
" I believe that our dear Stephen Grellet wrote to thee, or to Prince
Alexander Galitzin, from Italy, after our separation at Corfu ; and thou
hast perhaps heard from our dear friends, the Vennings, that we met
at Geneva, and afterwards at London. On a review of this arduous
engagement, and considering our own weakness and inability to do
any good of ourselves, and the many deliverances which we have ex
perienced, the grateful acknowledgment arises, ' It is the Lord's doing,
and it is marvellous in our eyes.' We have been favoured to taste of
that sweet peace which the world cannot bestow, nor can it take away.
Notwithstanding the illness which was permitted to befall me in Greece,
I have been thankful that I gave up to visit that country, having met,
even there, with those who may be made useful in promoting the
Lord's cause in the earth. The inhabitants are a fine race of men, but
greatly depraved, and cruelly oppressed ; the females, as in most un
civilized countries, receive no education at all, except in some rare
instances: but the people seem to have minds highly susceptible of
cultivation. Soon after Stephen Grellet joined me in London, we went to attend
the Yearly Meeting of our religious society, held in Dublin : here we
were favoured, at times, to witness what we humbly conceived to be
the countenance and support of Him, who promised to be with his poor

1820.

OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 489

disciples and servants, always, even unto the end of (he world. On
our return to England, we attended the Yearly Meeting, held in Lon
don, which, in many of its sittings, was a time of divine favour, that
being felt in the secret of the mind which is more precious than words,
and without which, the most beautiful form of words is only like the
body without the soul. After this dear Grellet paid several religious
visits among his friends near London, and about the first of the 7th
month, (July,) he embarked at Liverpool, for New York; we just hear
that the ship was spoken to thirteen days after, 'all well,' and more
than half the passage performed.
The dear Emperor, and Prince Alexander Galitzin, will, I doubt
not, be glad to hear that the Russian Scripture Lessons are now in
train to be printed in all the languages of Europe, where there are
schools on the plan of the British and Foreign School Society, and
happily now, there is scarcely a country in the world where they do
not exist. We are raising a subscription in London to pay the expense ;
besides the large Lessons, to be pasted on boards, and hung up against
the wall, we shall have an octavo edition in each language ; in English,
it is almost printed; I hope, that in the course of a week, it will be
published. I have had the third part from the Testament, printed in
Italian, at Paris, from Martini's Catholic version ; this will be spread
through Italy, where they are beginning to have schools upon our
plan — they have already fourteen in Tuscany. I am taking measures
to have the Scripture Lessons translated into modern Greek ; what a
field does that country offer for the wide distribution of extracts from
the sacred volume. The people are almost absolutely ignorant of the
scriptures — not a copy to be found in any of their schools, but they
received the copies which we distributed with the utmost eagerness.
At Stuttgard, Grellet made arrangements for having them printed in
German, and we are going to set about the Spanish translation without
losS of time ; the Portuguese, and other languages will follow ; the Baron
Sternhielt engages that they shall be published in the Swedish language.
I purpose to forward thee, from time to time, copies of all these trans
lations, which should be deposited in a suitable place at Petersburg.
Wherever this selection goes, it will make the people earnest to possess
the entire book, and I think that no measure, since the Bible Society
has been instituted, is so well calculated to promote tbe wide circula
tion of the sacred volume. One very important object of our journey
is accomplished, namely, the obtaining correspondents throughout
Europe, (and indeed we have them now in all quarters of the world,)
who have at heart the promotion of real vital religion, and the general
good of mankind. In proportion as those who are desiring to act
upon the principles of the gospel, are multiplied in the nations, in that
proportion will it be more difficult to embroil them in war. We want

490 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1820.
no more theories, no new doctrines to procure the happiness of man
kind, we only \vanjt men to be really christians, whereas, at present,
the great bulk of those who go under the name are pagans at heart.
When we were at Petersburg, the dear Emperor told us that the
Empress mother had conferred with him, on the subject of schools for
the poorest class Of girls, and that he had given orders that six such
schools should be formed ; at that time, we did not know of a suitable
female to recommend, who was acquainted with the new system, though
I wrote to our committee, in London, to look out for such a person,
well knowing that if they could find one in all respects adapted to your
circumstances, she would be invaluable to you. I think I may now
say, that such a one has providentially offered. Sarah Kilham, a
young woman well known to the family of Daniel Wheeler, has thought
it her religious duty, to go to Petersburg, and offer her services to con
duct a model school, for two or three hundred poor girls, provided that
the Emperor would be pleased to sanction it. She goes out by the
Paris, the vessel that carries this letter; she is highly respected at
Sheffield, where she kept a school, and was doing exceedingly well,
but she thought it right to sacrifice every thing to the present apprehen
sion of duty ; her mother, Hannah Kilbam, is a highly Useful and pious
character. I am sure, that if dear Grellet were present, he would join
me in earnestly requesting Prince Galitzin, to mention the case to the
Emperor; the motives .pf-fhe; yWng woman, are, I believe, wholly dis
interested, and I kn#}# fh\t;;she* is' capable of being a blessing to your
country. If the Ei^er^or^artd the Empress mother were to encourage
the measure, it w&#d be^asy'to ijriti j'adies who would support such a
school : this wou)rt|be a(oe^tral>-pc)iht, and mistresses might be trained
here for all the empire, r Fjk&ild^fave sa'd that the young woman has,
I believe, a pretty gsodlljaa<wtfedge of French.
Our prison discipline committee is going on very successfully; but
as we send the news to our friend Walter Venning, I shall say no more
about it here. Please to present me most respectfully and affection
ately to Prince Alexander Galitzin ; the remembrance of the sympathy
with your spirits, under, I trust, the feeling of Our dear Saviour's love,
is precious to me. I should be much obliged if the Prince would take
an opportunity to present me most respectfully to the dear Emperor ;
my prayers are, from time to time, put up for, his preservation : may
the Lord bless him, the Empress, and the Empress mother, is the fer
vent prayer of my heart. I have sent to General Contineas, of Ekate
rinoslav, some seeds, &c, for the Colonies in the South, and I think
that I have found out a channel for him to dispose of his Merino wool
to advantage. I write to him by this conveyance. I know how
numerous thy engagements are, and sympathize with thee under thy
burdens; at the same time, I rejoice in the belief, that thou knowest

2"* OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 491

me

where to apply for best help, even to him who said, < Come unto ...
all ye who labour, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.' I
remain, in the bonds of christian love and fellowship, thy sincerely
affectionate friend, William Allen."
In the review of the week, ending Eighth Month 26th, W. Allen
writes —
"I am often much tried with doubts and fears. Have had satisfac
tion in attending Kingston Monthly Meeting last fourth-day, and peace
of mind followed giving up to some other religious service during the
week. I conclude to live altogether in the country, and Cornelius is
to be fixed at Plough Court.
Eighth Month 28th — I am much engaged about Stevens, the poor
man, who is condemned to be executed. Went with Cornelius to
Bedford Square, fo see Judge Graham on this case, but found him dis
inclined to mercy. Then called on Lord Sidmouth, but nothing can
be done.
30th — A letter from my dear friend, Stephen Grellet, announces
his safe arrival at New York, and that he was favoured to find his
family well.
Ninth Month 2nd.— -Review of the past week. My mind was com
forted and sustained in the early part of the week ; afterwards, I became
anxious and low. I have agreed to take part again in the lectures at
the hospital. I rather wished to give them up, but did not think it
right to do so. I am taking lessons in the Russian language, and daily
devote an hour and a half before breakfast to French and German.
10th. — In our forenoon meeting, my dear child was engaged in
vocal supplication. My soul rejoiced in this, her first public act of
dedication, in that solemn line of service. After the second meeting,
she accompanied me to visit Jonathan B. Jermyn, who is much indis
posed. Mary spoke to him sweetly, and I followed in prayer. Our
spirits were comforted together.
11th. — Second-day. In company with Peter Bedford and my
daughter, I set off, after the Morning Meeting, for Chelmsford, to
attend the Quarterly Meeting there ; reached that place in time for the
meeting of ministers and elders.
12th. — Quarterly Meeting; on the whole, satisfactory."
W. A. here enumerates some interesting social visits at and near
Chelmsford, and Dunraow ; he returned'to Stoke Newington on the 14th.
"Ninth Month 18th  I went up to James's-place, to see Governor
Macarthy, who is just arrived from Sierra Leone; afterwards wrote to
Baron Dupuy.
20th. — Wrote to Wilberforce ; afterwards went to tbe Borough Road
School, to meet the Spanish Ambassador, the Duke of Frias and Uceda.
J. B. Jermyn died, last evening, in sweet peace.

492 LIFE OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 1820.
28th.— Governor Macarthy, from Sierra Leone, and several gentle
men from St. Mary's, dined with us, after which we went together to
the Borough Road School.
Review of the week. — When I awake in the night season, I am often
much depressed ; yet ability is granted at times to pour out my sup
plications to the Lord. Oh ! may I and my dear child be preserved,
and kept in 'the love of God, and in the patient waiting for Christ.'
Tenth Month 16th— Robert Forster accompanied me to Oxshot, to
attend the public meeting of the school established there. The new
school-house was filled. Prince Leopold and the Duchess of Kent
were there. The meeting went off satisfactorily.
23rd. — Packed up school reports and tracts for Finland. Went with
Pepys to the London Institution, where we met Davy, and we made
many experiments together in order to test Davy's new discoveries."
On the 11th of Eleventh Month, W. A. remarks —
"Lhave^e^n lately closely occupied; gave the opening lecture at
th^htf|pital .'oh third-day, the 7th inst., on experimental philosophy;
/ ijoonveicessivelyj\:rowded ; all went off' well."
J^-. The "lectures, were now regularly proceeded with three times in the
** weekjv^and ~WV A. mentions being " closely engaged in writing an
"* ans^j&rLto'Jhe^Edinburgh Review on the subject of schools."
k Wikelfth^Month 11th. — In the review of the last week, W. A. says —
<rSfrong inward trials and temptations. Oh ! for that state of mind
in which I should not feel hurt if all the world slighted me ; but my
imperfections stare me in the face every day. I am certainly by nature
very weak. May I be preserved from bringing any reproach upon the
glorious cause of truth. This has been a busy week: much occupied
by W. Singleton's case ; he is gone to Gravesend to embark for Africa ;
have also attended the African Institution, School Committee, Borough
Road, and that of the Spitalfields School, and have been engaged in
the capital punishment cause at Dr. Lushington's, in conjunction with
him, S. Hoare, T- F. Buxton, W. Crawford, and T. F. Forster. We
agreed to meet on this business once every month.
I have written something for the newspapers about the poor men
who were hanged this morning. I was elected a member Of the
Horticultural Society at their late meeting."
The 13th of Twelfth Month, and the three following days, were
chiefly spent at Guildhall, attending the trial of Severn, King, and Co.,
against the Phoenix Fire Office.
" 19th. — Trial finished, decided in favour of Severn and Co., of
which I was truly glad.
25th and 26th.— Quarterly Meeting. A solid satisfactory time."
END OF VOL. I.

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