i,

,;

Ift

,;

^iiiinniiiiiiiiiii'.iiiii'iiiiiiiiiiiHiiii
YALE UNIVERSITY
LIBRARY

1935

MEMOIR

ELIZABETH T. KING.

WITH EXTRACTS

F K (J M II E K

LETTERS AND JOURNAL.

SECOND EDITION.

BALTIMORE:
ARMSTRONG & BERRY.
1860.

Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1859, by
FRANCIS T. KING,
In the Clerk's Office of the District Court for the State of Maryland.

'fo?.

?\ ,

~7

%'.

ELECTROTYPED BT PKINTET> BY
T. B. Smith & Sow, Baker & Godwih
82 & 84 Beekman Street. 1 Spruce Street

INTRODUCTORY.

The adaptation of the Gospel to all classes and
conditions of men, is one of the most convincing proofs
of its divine origin. It is addressed to all men every
where ; and while to all it teaches the same great truths
with undeniable authority, while it changes the whole
purpose and bent of the mind, it yet leaves many traits
of individual character, modified and controlled, but still
distinctive, to work out, in conformity with the Divine
Will, the ends which they were designed to accomplish.
If it was one of its characteristics that it was preached
to the poor, it no less effectively charged the rich that
their trust should be in "the living God." If its deepest
mysteries were opened to unlearned and ignorant men,
one of its chosen vessels was a man profoundly versed in
the philosophy of his age and country. It is instructive

IV INTKODTJCTOK Y.
to find' the man of low degree, whether in social position
or in intellectual culture, elevated by the influence of
the Gospel to a high rank among the benefactors of
mankind; nor is it less so to see the brightest minds
humbled under the same controlling power, and using
their gifts with the same results. But if it be so in the
extremes of human condition, how much more may we
expect to find the middle walks of life filled with the
same conclusive evidence of the universality of Divine
Grace !
If we were asked what is the especial teaching in the
following memoir, we should say, the fruitfulness of a
life controlled by the Gospel.
That our friend had very considerable natural en
dowments, that her tastes were refined and her intellect
strengthened by culture, that she had a lively imagina
tion and that early associations had called it into active
exercise, no one will doubt who peruses these pages.
That with these qualities were combined, a shrinking
sensitiveness which attached her closely to her friends
but seemed likely to lead her in more private walks, is
equally obvious. To what, then, is it owing that this

INTRODUCTOEY. V
brief record of one thus fitted for " the cool sequestered
vale of life," has been found attractive to so many under
very different circumstances ? There is but one answer :
on every page stands the impress of a life controlled by
the power of the Gospel. How many of equal talent,
of wider and higher culture, and with her gentleness and
personal attractions, have passed through a lengthened
course of social intercourse, beloved and respected, yet
have left behind them nothing which could strengthen
the weak, encourage the fearful, or meliorate the con
dition of survivors !
It may not be useless to dwell for a few moments on
the gradual unfolding of religious character, as presented
to lis in the following memoir. Attractive as was her
childhood, it will be remarked that a great change camo
over her. " What has changed you so ?" said an inti
mate friend ; and her reply presents with touching sim
plicity, the brief record of her early religious experience.
She now longs " for the quiet habitation which He pro
vides," and " is thankful beyond measure for the still
waters" she once despised. The sense of her own
weaknesses becomes intensely painful, — what she deems

VI INTRODUCTORY.
her " impatient temper and tendency to self-indulgence."
She desires " to walk in the fear of the Lord all the day
long," and does not even dare "to ask for temporal
blessings," but only " for food convenient for her." To
her who tremblingly rejoices in the opening visions of a
higher existence, devotion to worldly wisdom seems de
grading. She brings everything to the test of its bear
ing upon the soul's eternal interests.
In the m^dst of society, and with true enjoyment of
it, she begins to feel keenly her responsibility for such
influence as she may exert. But not a thought of ascet
icism mixes with her sense of surrounding temptations.
Her trust is in " The Father who cares for his rebellions
children ;" and so trusting, she watches over herself,
guards her conversation, is frequent in retirement ; and
the result is the heartfelt exclamation : '¦'¦Our Saviour !
how blessed is the sound ! may I be guided every mo
ment by his Spirit, and be kept from sin of every kind
or degree !" She who to others seemed so gentle and so
humble, records that she has continually to struggle
against pride and selfishness, and adds, " Oh, for the rest
of true humility !" and as though she had found it,

INTRODUCTORY. Yll
quotes the beautiful words of John Crooke : " None are
so weary but he takes care of them — so tender is this
Good Shepherd over his flock."
That great change in woman's life, when she passes
from the home of her childhood to rule over her own
household, does not alier the purposes for which she
lives. Her earnest prayer is, " Satisfy, if it please Thee,
the desire which we believe Thou hast created in our
souls for more holiness and greater usefulness ;" and that
she may walk in the path of humility and self-denial.
She is the light of her husband's house. Every fresh
experience of the love and mercy of her Heavenly
Father, lends greater earnestness to her efforts for the
well-being of those who are dearer to her than herself;
and the love which has its center at home, expands in
widening circles to all the children of that common
Fa 'her: Such are the springs of action. If humiliations
abound, and the way does not seem open for active
efforts, she remembers, " it may be that pride and self-
love mingle with our desires for usefulness even in the
Church," and rejoices in the willingness which has been

Vlll INTRODUCTORY.
granted to her " to be nothing." She feels the necessity
of heing faithful to the law and the testimony, but fer
vently desires " that she may in nowise depart from a
loving and charitable spirit," equally removed from
excess of liberality and from bigotry.
It is not an easy thing to keep a record of daily
spiritual progress. To comparatively few, indeed, is it
safe. The few entries made by the subject of this
memoir are marked by great simplicity.
The struggle which it cost her to address a few poor
women at the Penitentiary, and the peace which fol
lowed, preceded that call to the more public ministry
which the Society of Friends believes is not designed to
be limited to one sex. Painfully sensitive as she was,
with the keenest appreciation of the gracefulness of the
life of woman passed in the bosom of her-own family,
her friends could not but know that the exposure of
speaking in meetings for Divine Worship must be one of
her severest trials. She has herself briefly alluded to
this struggle ; none who knew her can doubt that her
words fall far short of a full record of the intensity of
her feeling. Happily, she had already learned submis,.

INTRODUCTORY. ]X
sion to the guidance of the Spirit, and now " her will
was subdued, her reasoning quieted, and she was made
wiliing to give up all in the obedience of Faith." In
reference to an early experience of this kind, she tells
us, " It was a little thing to do for Him ; neither could
I have done it without His power ; it was all his work
yet he rewards so sweetly. In my great debility I have
been folded like a weary child in the arms of infinite
Love and Compassion.''
But while she is thus called to serve her Lord more
publicly, in no respect does this lessen the sense of social
duties. She had read much and variously, and though
now restrained from some reading not in itself objection
able, because it recalled feelings which had too much en
grossed her, she was still familiar with the best of our
current literature. Her acquirements of every kind are
laid upon the altar of her Lord. In society she finds
frequent occasions to make herself attractive and useful
to her young friends by the judicious use of the know
ledge she has stored or the tastes she has cultivated.
How delightful would our social circles become, and how
elevating their influence, were all our gifts used there

X INTRODUCTORY.
under the sense of responsibility, and in that true hu
mility which our friend brought into them !
One other result of deepening religious experience
may be alluded to. She was a consistent member of the
religious Society of Friends. Its distinguishing doctrines
and practices were familiar to her from her infancy ; but
they were openly acknowledged and carried into her daily
life from a settled conviction of their consistency with
the teaching of Holy Scripture, and because all her own
religious experience confirmed that conviction. While
thus consistently adhering to the principles of this body
of Christian professors, the gift which had been the ob
ject of her early aspirations was granted to her — a lov
ing and charitable spirit. Like John Woolman, she
found no narrowness in regard to sects. In truth, much
of her appreciation of the good in others who differed
from her, was the result of her steadfast adherence lo her
own religious convictions. She had learned from experi
ence, that there was no peace but in the performance of
duty as it was made known to her ; and therefore did she
the more readily draw near, in spirit, to those who,
under different religious professions, were similarly en-

INTRODUCTORY. XI
gaged. Thii feeling increases as she nears the goal. " I
am not at all sectarian," she writes to a young friend ;
" but I do like to see a man capable of real, honest, ear
nest appreciation of goodness and of elevation of feeling
and character wherever he meets it."
We may well close these somewhat desultory notices
with the eloquent words of one whose own life and death
afforded striking illustrations of the beautiful sentiments
which they convey :
" There is one branch of study which deserves espe
cially to be recommended, as not only forming a most
valuable part of Church history, but as amounting almost
to a devotional exercise at the same time ; I mean the
biography of good Christians of all ages ; and above all,
whenever it is to be obtained, their own expression of
their spiritual wants and affections and the record of
their deaths. It is not desirable to think that error is
truth or foolishness wisdom because a good man has
uttered' it. But it is even less desirable that our sense of
his errors or fooli-hness should destroy our sympathy
with his goodness. The pursuit of ecclesiastical history
will necessarily show us too much of the quarrels and

Xll INTRODUCTORY.
infirmities of Christians ; it is most wholesome to turn
to a picture which will display their union and their
strength. And in those portions of good men's lives
which exhibit them in their direct relations towards God,
opening their hearts before Him, convinced of their own
sin and of His mercy in Christ, showing the true marks
of Christ's servants, a quick and tender conscience and
an entire trust in God ; we see in all ages and in all
countries, the true unity of Christ's Spirit — the true
agreement of Christ's people. Or again, if in the lives
and writings of Christians we have found too many
marks of human weakness, marks which show that they
are still surrounded with this world's infirmities; yet
how delightful is it to watch them in their deaths,
when, being delivered from their several temptations,
their lamps are seen to burn with the same heavenly
brilliance, inasmuch as all are fed by the same oil !
There the weak mind has parted with its weakness, the
angry with its over-vehemence ; there the narrow-
minded learns the largeness of God's love, and the under
standing which perhaps had felt too keen a conscious
ness of its power, is softened by the overwhelming sense

INTRODUCTORY. xiii
of God's perfections, now more clearly discerned. So in
all Christ is glorified, and we can perceive even here
the beginnings of that perfect communion in which, all
shades of difference being melted away, Christ's servants
will be one for forever in Him and in the Father."

MEMOIR

In attempting a brief memoir of one
so dearly loved, much hesitation has been
felt while lifting the veil, and exposing to
view, the inner life of our sensitive, shrink
ing friend. Yet it has seemed that a de
scription of her life of faith, and whole
hearted dedication to the service of her
Master, was called for as a testimony to the
efficacy of that grace, by which she was
enabled to become what she was ; and as
an encouragement to others to follow as
implicitly as she did, the Captain of their
soul's salvation, and thus be made more
than conquerors through Him.

i MEMOIR OF
Elizabeth T. King was the daughter of
William C. and Hannah T. Taber, and was
born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, on
the 18th of 7th month, 1820.
From childhood she was remarkable for
a loving, sympathetic disposition, which
rendered her thoughtful of the comfort of
others, and attentive to their wishes.
Very diffident and retiring, she seemed
entirely unconscious of her own power of
winning affection, and was disposed to
shrink from observation. But, while gen
tle and yielding where principle was not
involved, she was firm in her impressions
of duty, and earnest in their fulfillment.
Richly endowed with intellectual gifts, it
was her delight to cultivate them, and for
some time the pursuit of knowledge was
very absorbing. The facility with which
her tasks were acquired, together with her
gentle disposition, and strict integrity,

ELIZABETH T. KING. 5
rendered her a favorite with her teachers,
and her school-days were passed with
pleasure and success.
Her love of the beautiful was early de
veloped, and she was ever ready to appre
ciate it wherever it existed. This faculty
opened another -and lasting source of hap
piness, which elevated her spirit, and in
sensibly gave a tone to her feelings. To
her every thing in nature had a language,
from the delicate flowers and grasses in
the meadows, to the splendor of the sun
set sky, or the grandeur of the ocean.
In later years her enjoyment of these
beauties was chastened and enhanced by
her supreme love for their Divine Author,
and while admiring their beauty and sub
limity, she turned with loving confidence
to Him who spread them forth, being
able to say, "My Father made them all."
To a person of her imaginative tempera-

6 MEM0IR0F
ment and refined taste, poetry could not
fail to be attractive, and her own pen was
often employed in thus expressing her
feelings. Her timidity and self-distrust
were, however, so great, that most of her
youthful efforts were destroyed.
The traits noticeable in childhood in
creased with her riper years, and her mem
ory well stored with incident, her agree
able manner of expression, and the re
fined taste which instinctively selected
whatever was valuable, rendered her so
ciety very attractive.
Those who knew her, will well remember
the charm of her gentle voice and manner,
her speaking eye lighted up by the mind
within, and the irresistible influence she
exerted on all around. This was remarka
ble through life, and as her mind matured,
and other thoughts and feelings gave place
to the desire of consecrating her all to God

JEt 18.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 7
these powers, chastened and refined by
grace, rendered her indeed a polished in
strument in her Master's service.
The winter of 1838 was passed in Phil
adelphia at school, where her health was
so much injured by severe application as
to occasion her return home. For some
time serious apprehensions were felt by
her friends lest the injury should be per
manent ; but at- length she was restored
to comparative health, and with return
ing strength, her desire for usefulness in
creased. Her own description of her feelings at
this time was thus given to a dearly loved
friend: — New Bedford, 5 mo., 8th, 1839.
Shall I confess that the prospect of returning
health has a tinge of melancholy with its joy.
To the humblest among us life has fearful re
sponsibilities, and now I almost shrink, as I stand

8 MEMOIR OF [Mt. 19.
upon the threshold, and view its cares and vex
ations again ready to assail me.
I have suffered much since I left you, but
the winter has passed almost happily ; for, in all
that I have experienced, I have been confirmed
in my favorite "Wordsworth's beautiful belief,
' Naught shall prevail against us, nor disturb
Our cheerful faith, that all which we behold
Is full of blessings ;'
which is only another version of the promise we
have from higher authority, ' All things shall
work together for good.' I will try to feel this
accomplished in health as well as in sickness,
and fulfill the only wish I have ever felt about
my future life, that I might not live in vain.
4 mo., 13th, 1841.
I am free to confess that my attachment to
the principles of our Society has increased of
late. In trying to be quiet, and to put every thing
aside that would tend to cloud our vision (and
manifold are these hinderances), I think the way
gradually but surely grows light before us, and
we are led almost insensibly along. I believe
too, that as we sincerely desire to yield perfect

Mt 20.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 9
obedience, those things which we had not cour
age enough to resolve to do for ourselves are
done for us, and we bless God for the chastening
which mercy dictated. ' I am tired of strug
gling,' said a friend to me the other day. As if
our life could Le any thing but a perpetual war
fare, the good and the evil so strive together.
But it matters not whether our lot be one of joy
or sorrow, if we only reach home at last. It
may not be sinful to look with earnest yet pa
tient desires to the haven where the weary are at
rest. I think of thee very often, with strong in
terest and sympathy, knowing that thy trials are
great and peculiar. When flesh and heart fail,
there is but one Eefuge, and the conviction that
He liveth who pities as a father pitieth his chil
dren ; that He sees and knows all — every bitter
and weary struggle, every desire, however faint,
for conformity to His will, and that in His own
time He will arise and deliver from the domin
ion of the torturing thoughts and anxieties which
so oppress us. Ah, dear  , if we always felt
this faith, the sting of the deepest earthly sorrow
would be removed.

10 MEMOIR OF [Mt. 20.
To a schoolmate with whom she had
long corresponded : —
6 mo., 27, 1841.
With respect to what thou says about myself,
dear, I acknowledge that I am now desirous to
resign all, but do not in the least deserve what
thou says of me. There are few of us but must
put up the petition,
1 Forgive me that all else was tried
Before I came to Thee.'
And it is scarcely till we have proved the utter
weariness and weakness of every earthly depend
ence, that we come where alone we are sure of
aid and rest. Thanks, then, and praise be alone
to Him who dims the glory of this world be
fore our vision, and if in joy we forget Him,
sends us heavy sorrows, which, nevertheless, He
will heal and comfort as we endeavor not only to
submit, but to acquiesce in His will. There is
only one real comfort in life, and that is trying
to do right. May we, my dear  , go on to
gether in the path in which we are called to
walk, though it be one of sorrow and humilia-

Mt. 20.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 11
tion. Those who are clothed in white robes and
sing praises around the throne of the Lamb, are
those who have come out of great tribulation.
That such a time should come, that there should
be a mansion which sickness and sorrow, and
above all that sin and temptation shall never en
ter — that we should ever enjoy the fullness of
His love and presence, whom in weakness we
have endeavored to follow, is surely enough to
lighten every burden.
To a former schoolmate and intimate
friend : — 12 mo., 27th, 1841.
I heard a lecture from E. K. Peabody the
other eve on Ecclesiastical History. It was very
interesting, embracing a comprehensive view of
church government, from the time and primitive
simplicity of the apostles, to that when the papal
power reached its height, under Gregory VII.
and Innocent III., in the eleventh and twelfth
centuries. If thou had been here I should have
taken thee with me. The building in which the

12 MEMOIR OF [.Et. 20.
lecture was delivered is certainly magnificent,
but, as I told  , it is not in the power of any
combinations of wood and stone to produce emo
tions of grandeur and sublimity in my mind.
Human sympathies must cluster around any ob
ject to render it interesting to me, and only spir
itual and intellectual elevation gives me the feel
ing of the sublime. Nature, it is true, by the
God which speaks through her, raises me to the
contemplation of the Infinite ; but Art is lim
ited, like its creator. Then a species of utilita
rianism will come in. What is the use of all
this ? Are the prayers which rise through these
magnificent arches more acceptable because
borne upon the deep, solemn pealing of the or
gan, or the richer swell of human voices ? I do
not doubt they may be sincere ; that they are ac
cepted ; but mine would rise more freely, when,
surrounded by the severe and naked simplicity
of our humblest places of worship, they are of
fered in the silence of all flesh, to a God who
must be worshipped in spirit to be worshipped
in truth.

Mt 21.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 13
From the enjoyment of merely liter
ary pursuits and the pleasures of the so
cial circle, it will be seen that her atten
tion had now been turned to other and
more important subjects. The solemn con
sideration of the duties of life pressed
heavily upon her, and for a time, like the
weary dove, her soul could find no rest.
Deeply convinced of the unsatisfying na
ture of any thing earth can give, she yet
could not lay hold on the promises of the
gospel. The mental struggle was intense,
and her health was affected by it.
The illness and death of a beloved aunt,
to whom she was closely united by a sim
ilarity of tastes and feeling, as well as the
most ardent affection, increased her desire
to find some support which would not fail.
The glory of the unseen world which
was opening upon the invalid, was the
frequent subject of their communings, and
2

14 MEMOIROF [Mt.21.
the triumphant faith with which, as the
shades of evening came slowly on, she could
say, " My soul doth magnify the Lord, and
my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour,"
made an impression on the mind of the
young disciple never to be effaced.
She was convinced of the reality of the
faith which thus supported her beloved
aunt, and by the operation of the Spirit,
which not only convinces of sin but en
ables to seek availingly for pardon, she
was brought to the feet of her Saviour, and
found from this time her greatest happi
ness in the performance of His will.
A change was now wrought in her feel
ings, which her own letters to the same
valued friend will best describe.
New Bedford, 2 mo., 15th, 1842.
I think I am growing more inclined to try
every thing by the test, ' Cai bono V — not in a
devotion to mere utilitarianism, but to examine
tho bearing of all our business and pleasures on

Ml. 21.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 15
our eternal interests ; and I try to withdraw my
self from vain speculations, and be quiet.
The truth is, we can not buoy ourselves up
long ; we must have something to cling to which
is firm , and fast. We are willing to do every
thing but yield simple obedience, try any rem
edy but the waters of Jordan to make us clean ;
but all this is but a vain endeavor to escape from
the simple truth as it is in Jesus. I feel inclined
to say with the poet,
' Me tliis unchartered freedom tires ;
I feel the weight of chance desires,
And Tliee I now would serve more strictly if I may.'

New Bedford, 11 mo, Gth, 1842.
If there is any thing which degrades the soul,
I think it is a devotion to worldly wisdom and
expediency. I have watched its deadly blight
creeping over the soul, and withering every
noble and generous feeling, till my heart has
ached, and does so still. After all, there is
nothing which can truly ennoble man but pure,
genuine, thorough Christianity. Without it he

16 MEMOIROF [Mt. 22.
must not only be wicked and wretched, but de
graded and miserable.
To a former schoolmate : 12 mo., 6th, 1842.
I have been to Bancroft's lecture this eve
ning, and was much pleased. He spoke very
well of the mighty significance lying hid under
the seemingly slightest incidents— that this only
was the interest of History. All thinking minds
take this comprehensive and philosophical view,
but there are many who store the mere facts,
without looking beneath the surface.
Nothing seems to me important except as it
relates to the inner life, and in that connection
it is of mighty power and interest. I cannot
see an old house torn down, without thinking
how every beam and rafter has a connection in
some mind with, it may be, a fearful history ;
how many have lived, suffered, enjoyed, loved
and died within its walls. While working for
the Boston [Charitable] Fair, I have amused
myself with speculating upon the stories each
article of fancy work might tell. There are

Mt 22.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 17
many of exquisite beauty from Europe, I hear.
How many hopes and fancies may be woven in
the delicate fabrics. They tell no tales, but every
thing has a tongue to me. Pure benevolence,
influencing a light and happy heart, may impel
the skillful fingers, or they may move more
heavily, as 'the continual sorrow of the soul'
seeks respite in ministering to the woes of others.
Yet there is no mark by which the difference
may be detected.
I have been reading with much interest Ste
phen's Miscellanies. The articles on the Early
Jesuits, the Poet Royalists, Luther, Baxter, etc.,
call forth the energies of an earnest and vigor
ous mind, for they treat of earnest men — those
who believed that Life and Death, Time and
Eternity, were not merely words, but realities ;
on whose ears the sound, ' Verily there is a God
who judgeth in the earth,' fell with fearful mean
ing. Bigoted, harsh, stern, and uncharitable
they were, but there was nevertheless a depth
and sincerity of purpose, which the liberality
which is often indifference, does not often mani-
fest. The sickly refinement and fastidiousness
2*

18 MEMOIR OP [/Et. 23.
which has so many disciples now, is the charac
teristic of an age without faith' and without en
ergy. Life, with its manifold duties and fearful im
port to ourselves and others — death, opening the
portals to eternity — eternity, oh how can we look
on these things and be otherwise than serious
and earnest? What time is there for trifling
when such important concerns are pressing upon
our hearts ? Every thing, our dearest pleasures,
the idols to which we cling most devotedly, our
most heart-wearing sorrows — all sink into insig
nificance as we look to the world where none of
earth's allurements can find an entrance. But
often our faith fails and our hearts sink, and the
clouds on the sunshine of Time veil us from the
prospect of Eternity New Bedford, 8 mo., 1843.
* * * I have nothing to record but strug
gling, for the most part I fear in vain, sometimes
almost sinking, andstill, I know not how, kept up,
so that I do not utterly lose hope and comfort.
Then, too, I lose my faith, but I try not to,

Mt 23.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 19
and deliverance will perhaps be wrought, though
I see no way. So many temptations, and so
great a tendency to yield to them, I think some
times the enemy is indeed let loose, and power
given him over every thing that seemed to prom
ise hope of overcoming. It is not always so,
however, and sometimes I have glimpses of a
rest which has been promised, and have a realiz
ing sense that ' He is, and that He is a rewarder
of them that diligently seek Him.'
Many snares beset me, in society most of all
I think, for there are few who view things as I
do. Not that I often speak of these subjects;
but, if we are desirous that one great principle
of action should be established in our hearts, it
alters our estimate of every thing else. Things
do not seem as they once did ; we can not be
what we once were; we remember how mys
terious and almost repulsive these views were
to us, and know how they seem to others
now. New Bedford, 3 mo., 13th, 1844.
Indeed, I am bound to acknowledge that I
have not been left alone, though, my unfaithful-

20 MEMOIKOF [Mt 23.
ness has deserved it. Sometimes, when bowed
under a sense of my transgressions, the blessed
conviction of the sufficiency of the Eedeemer's
blood to cleanse from sin — to save us, as some
one expresses it, not only from the penalty but
the power — has arisen on my mind with a heal
ing certainty. But I am often sorely tempted, and my faith
fails, and my love grows cold, and I have scarce
ly grace to bemoan my weakness. I do not often
speak of my inward feelings, but all this is very
true. I have been tried in many ways, and have
suffered much from sorrow for sin, from the
agony of sacrificing some cherished idol, from
the contempt of others ; but the hardest of all
is to feel that the world will gain the ascend
ency — that it is far, oh very far, from being my
meat and drink to do the will of God.
Elizabeth T. King had always the care
of pious parents, exemplary members of
the religious Society of Friends, yet she
herself had never until now made that
open and decided acknowledgment of her

^Et 24.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 21
Saviour, which, with love and charity to all
His true followers, ever afterwards marked
her devotion and consistency as a member
of that portion of His Church to which she
belonged. The following letter, written to one of
the friends of her youth, who had not seen
her for some time, will give an account of
the change which had taken place in her
views and feelings : —
New Bedford, 11 mo., 7th, 1844.
Thy question rings in my ears with a half-
painful sound, 'What has changed you so?'
The change has been so gradual, that I am not
aware until I meet those who have not seen me
for years, that it is so great, but then I almost
invariably hear some remark of the kind.
Well, dear, time and care have no little ef
fect ; although it may be a slow wearing, it is
a sure one, and though an enthusiastic, ardent,
restless temperament, may be difficult of subjec
tion, it is one which shows the process better.

22 MEMOIR OF [Mi. 24.
When thou knew me I felt more keenly, but
was less happy than now — now that joy has not
so much power to elate, or sorrow to depress
me — now that my aspirations are very nearly
quenched, and- my mind ' subdued to what it
works in.' It is a less interesting condition, but
it is one much more comfortable. I smile with
a little sadness when I hear myself spoken of as
so calm ; for, after all, if we are in any degree
purified, it is ' so as by fire.' I consider myself,
however, as having great reason to be thankful
that circumstances have been such as to com
pel me to this course ; that cares, anxieties, sor
rows which I could not elude, have continually
checked me, and forced me to form a more so
ber estimate of life.
Now I only wish to form a habit of seeking
for pleasure in duty alone, resolutely rejecting
any enjoyment which conflicts with it in the
slightest degree. I have such an abiding sense
of the transitory nature of both earthly joys and
sorrows, that I feel it to be wrong to be much
moved by them. Why trouble ourselves about
the inconveniences of our journey, or be excited

Mt 24.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 23
by a pleasant occurrence that is soon passed
by? Does thou remember the Eastern fable, that
Solomon, on being asked by a prince to give
him a maxim which should prevent him from
being elated by prosperity, or depressed by ad
versity, gave him, 'This also passeth away?"
Something of this feeling is continually in my
mind. But I do not mean to speak as if I even
wished to attain to a mere philosophical calm
ness. If in any degree the restless, irritable, am
bitious feelings of my early youth are quieted,
if I am enabled to be more useful, and to find
pleasure in that, rather than in the gratification
of my own tastes (and I long that this may be
more and more the case), it is, thou wilt know
and feel, only owing to that grace which is mer
cifully extended to us, poor, miserable, blind and
naked as we are, to which nothing is impossible,
or there would be no hope of our ever becoming
meet for the kingdom of heaven.
Our Father mercifully stains the beauty of
this world in our view, dims all our pleasant

24 MEMOIROF [^Et. 24
pictures, shows us the vanity of our desires, lets
us feel the deep disappointment of having our
wishes refused, or one deeper still in having
them granted, that we may long for ' the quiet
habitation' which He provides, and learn to be
thankful beyond measure for the ' still waters'
which we once despised.
The way is long and sometimes dreary, but
we are journeying to a better habitation, that is
an heavenly. Is not this enough ? Let us en
courage one another to press forward to receive
suffering as well as enjoyment thankfully, and
let patience have its perfect work.
To an intimate friend —
New Bedford, 11 mo., 14th, 1844,
I have been passing my time very pleasantly
in Philadelphia, but rather too much in the bus
tle after all, and I now long to get quietly settled
down to home duties, feeling that such a con
stant round of enjoyment is not the most favor
able, even to happiness ; but it has been very
pleasant. People are so much more kind to me
than I deserve, or can possibly understand why,

Mt. 24,] ELIZABETH T . KING. 2f>
that it must and does give me great satisfaction.
I have been away from home five or six weeks,
and visited New York, Baltimore, Washington
and Philadelphia ; and if I can only go back,
and feel that I have not done any one any harm,
it will be a great favor, — if I can only hope that
I have not been led so far out of the way as to
prove an occasion for stumbling in any. We
can not avoid influencing others, and being in
fluenced by them, and it is a fearful thought
that a brother's blood may one day cry against
us. Oh, my dear, I do at times feel that it is
such a serious thing to live, that I am almost
overwhelmed with the many considerations it
involves. And while we feel our weakness, we
are not always willing to go to the right Source
for strength ; shrink from the patient waiting,
the quiet endurance of shame and suffering ne
cessary for our purification. I am grieved to the
heart at my own ingratitude and willfulness. But
still our Father cares for His rebellious children,
and embitters their cup of enjoyment, refuses
them the blessings they most earnestly desire, till
in the day of His power they are made willing

26 MEMOIR OF [Mt.2i.
to submit. Indeed, we have cause to bless Him
' most for the severe.'
We have all felt much sympathy with you
in the recent affliction you have experienced.
We were well qualified to sympathize in such
a sorrow. But there is such abundant consola
tion withal, that our natural grief is silenced
when we think that our beloved ones aTe taken
away from so much evil. Sorrows wear upon
our hearts, and storms of temptation assail, till
in bitterness of spirit we may say, 'Mine eye
shall no more see good ;' but they are at rest —
they dwell forever by the still waters, and lie
down in the quiet habitation. We will praise
Him for this, and may we be enabled to live so
that when He is pleased to summon us also from
a world whose beauty He hath dimmed, we too
may die the death of the righteous, and be ad
mitted to a place, though it be the lowest, in the
mansions prepared for them.
To the same friend on the death of her
father — New Bedford, 3 mo., 4th, 1845.
I have often thought of thee during the last

.Et. 24.] ELIZABETH. T. KING. 27
few weeks with the tenderest sympathy and af
fection, and have frequently attempted to ex
press it ; but what could I say ? No human
consolation can avail at such a time, and I feared,
unbidden, to touch so deep and so recent a wound,
lest I might only add to thy suffering. Yet I
trust thou hast not lacked consolation, but that
thy heavenly Father has been to thee as He hath
promised, strength in weakness, and a present
help in the needful time ; that the arm of Divine
Love hath been around thee and beneath thee,
preventing thee from sinking in the waves of
affliction. We have all cause to mourn the loss
which we have sustained, and, above every sel
fish consideration, we mourn that the Church,
now in her need, should have lost one of her
most valiant soldiers : but it is the Lord — let Him
do what seemeth to Him meet. Oh, my dear
friend, what a blessedness it would be to know
our own wills wholly swallowed up in the Divine
will, so that we might be careful for nothing in
any way. Sometimes the heavy chastenings ap
pear to accomplish this in some measure, and is
it not often the mission on which they are sent?"

28 MEMOIR OF [Mt 25.
The following extracts are from her
journal, which, from this time seems to
have been kept with much regularity :
7 mo., 1st, 1845. I am very much tried with
my imperious and impatient temper. May I be
able to overcome this. Then I have a tendency
to self-indulgence. May I be favored to feel that
the one thing needful is the only thing desirable.
15th. 0 Father, feeble and unworthy as I
am, Thou knowest the desire of my heart is to
serve Thee. It is Thou who hast given this de
sire ; Thou wilt not refuse it. Make, I beseech
Thee, the way plain before me, and enable me to
tread it in the obedience of faith.
8 mo., 16th. 'I will take heed to my ways,
that I sin not with my tongue.' I have been too
careless of late in repeating tales to the disad
vantage of others. 0 that I may walk in the
fear of the Lord all the day long. I have felt
that we were not to ask for temporal blessings,
or spiritual comforts, but only that we might be
fed with food convenient for us, even though
that may be the bread of adversity and the water

Mt25. ELIZABETH T. KING. 29
of affliction. ' Shall we receive good at the hand
of the Lord, and shall we not receive evil ?'
9 mo., 1st. May I be led and guided in all
my steps by Him who is the only Leader, that I
may give up every thing which He requires, in
little things as well as great. Oh enable me to
bear patiently the daily cross, looking for no
comfort or pleasure out of the fulfillment of Thy
will. Give me to travail availingly for the wel
fare of Thy Church militant, for those that are
dear to me, and for my own advancement in the
pathway of holiness. I have only sins and weak
nesses to bring to Thee ; be pleased to have
compassion, and afford a little help to struggle
against them, manifold though they be.
31st. I have been much favored to-day, in
my retirement, with quietness, with desires for
more entire devotion, and with a view of the
marvelous love manifested in the Saviour's life
and sacrifice, and its efficacy. Our /Saviour !
How blessed is the sound! May I be guided
every moment by His Spirit, and be kept from
sin of any kind or degree.
10 mo., 15th. Yesterday I had a call from

30 MEMOIR OF [Mi. 25.
¦  . I talked much, and perhaps not un-

profitably ; but it had an exciting and unfavor
able effect, as it tended a little to the exaltation
of self. I can not bear to have my quiet dis
turbed ; and those periods when, as it were, I rest
under the shadow of His wings, are so precious,
that I desire to watch jealously lest any earthly
feeling should draw me from this refuge. There
is no comfort, no satisfaction, in any thing else.
The heart can rest in no earthly home ; not too
entirely even in that which is provided to cheer
it as a brook by the way.
11 mo., 21st. I have continually to struggle
against my pride and selfishness. Oh for the
rest of true humility ! Could I attain to it, how
much should I enjoy. Well, in the beautiful
language of one of our early Friends, ' None are
so weary but He takes care of them, and none so
nigh fainting, but He puts His arm under their
heads ; nor can any be so beset with enemies on
every side, but He will arise and scatter them •
and none are so heavy laden, but He takes no
tice of, and gently leads them — so tender is this
Good Shepherd over His flock.'

Mt. 25.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 31
Oh what marvelous loving-kindness ! To be
lieve in this constantly would be an abiding-
comfort; but our own weakness and faithless
ness interpose many clouds between us and the
Sun of Eighteousness.

It is but justice to her character to say,
that these complaints of irritability and
selfishness arose from her desire to be tho
roughly conformed to the perfect Pattern.
Her conduct was ever marked by a scru
pulous attention to the wishes of others,
and a striking forgetfulness of self.
The time was now approaching in which
she was to leave the home of her child
hood, and assume new duties and respon
sibilities. But in the midst of her anticipations of
happiness, the glories of the enduring hab
itation seemed to assume a more definite
form, and in a farewell note to a dearly-
loved aunt, she thus writes : —

32 MEMOIROF [Ml. 25.
New Bedford, 12 mo., 28th, 1845.
Ah, my dear, what is our happiness — the
greatest on earth, where the most confiding love,
the deepest and truest affection, are based on the
sure foundation of perfect esteem, and sanctified
by our Father in Heaven, to the bliss of the re
deemed spirits of those who have gone before
us. I can not tell thee how heaven opens before
me— -no more sorrow, no more partings, no more
of this clinging earthly love, no more drooping
under the weight of feeling, which our hearts
can not bear, and, above all, no more sin; but
clearly and confidingly we look upon the Fa
ther — no cloud of the body's Aveakness or the
spirit's sinfulness, and we are satisfied, for we
awake in His likeness.
How those whom we have mourned for with
exceeding sorrow will welcome us to those shores,
if through mercy we are favored to reach them.
Look upon Him whom we have pierced; His
countenance is radiant with ineffable love as He
says, ' Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit
the kingdom prepared for you, from the found a-

Ml. 25.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 33
tion of the world' — the city ' whose Avails are sal
vation, and whose gates are praise.' God Him
self shall wipe away all tears from our eyes.
Words fail me, as I would express the com
munion of spirit throughout all eternity, in the
blessed employment of praising our God for
ever. I could almost say the veil Avas lifted,
that the glory, which eye hath not seen, was
made manifest to my spiritual vision. It seems
scarcely alloAvable to utter these unspeakable
things, but these views have very unexpectedly
impressed my mind. Would that they might bo
oftener present with me — earth would not then
look so enticing.
May we give ourselves up into our Father's
hands, for life or death, for joy or sorrow, secure
that all will be well.
On the last night of the year 1845 the
following entry occurs : — •
" 12 mo., 31st. So it will soon be over — a year
which has decided my future life. I began it
Avith anticipations of happiness ; they have been

34 MEMOIR OF [Mt. 25.
realized, for I never before was so happy, though
now the future assumes no definite form. But
I am almost sorrowful, even heavy-hearted now,
as I feel the weight of the step I am about to
take. May my love become more and more
spiritual, and divested of selfishness ; may my
faith be strengthened, that I may go on quietly
and calmly in the Avay in Avhich I believe I am
called upon to walk, not repining or feeling dis
appointment if I should find some thorns among
the flowers. I must look to Him who i3 ' strength
in weakness,' to be with me now, and desire to
resign myself and all I have, unreservedly, into
His holy keeping.
On the 8th of 1st month, 1846, she was
married to Francis T. King, of Baltimore,
and removed to reside in that city. A
change of residence brought with it no
change in her desires for holiness ; but, in
the enjoyment of her many blessings, her
heart continually turned to her Heavenly
Father, and sought to follow Him unre-

Mt. 25.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 35
servedly. In reference to her marriage,
she says —
As for me and my house, we will serve the
Lord, and serve Him too in the way of His
requirings, as far as strength is given us to
do so.
Oh, Father, satisfy, if it please Thee, the de
sires which we believe Thou hast created in our
souls for more holiness and greater usefulness,
and grant, if consistent with Thy holy will, that
we may go on together in the path of humility
and self-denial.
1 mo., 22d, 1846. All must be in subjection
to the Father of spirits, and now I renewedly de
sire to take such portions from His hand as He
may see meet to bestow, in thankfulness for
what is given and for Avhat is withheld. Oh to
be made meet to be a partaker with the heavenly
host — to be fitted for usefulness while detained
on earth. I long to be dedicated, body, soul and
spirit, to the service of the Eedeemer, while I
feel that the flesh shrinks from sacrifice and self-
denial.

36 MEMOIROF [Mt. 25.
The following are extracts from letters
written at this time to a young friend in
whom she was warmly interested, who
was struggling with the doubts and fears
incident to the early stages of a Christian's
course : — Baltimore, 1 mo., 1846.
* * * Now, my dear, I must speak of
some parts of thy letter, which touch me very
much, though I scarcely know what to sa,y, for
human counsel, and the tenderest human sym
pathy, will not avail in the Avork which lies be
tween us and our Maker. But He is a God nigh
at hand, and His love and care are greater than
any other. He Avill direct thy steps if thou look
to Him for guidance.
Do not be discouraged ; look up to Him
with trust and love, for He commands this ; but
remember, that of old the sacrifices Avere made
by fire unto the Lord, and many pleasant things
must be given up now. " Whosoever he be of
you that forsaketh not all that he hath, can not
be my disciple." Never let an}7 thing, however

-St. 25.] ELIZABETH T.KING. 37
insignificant, stand in the Avay of thy peace, and
then thou wilt experience that in His presence
alone is fullness of joy.
The way may at times seem dark, but light
will arise, if thou trust in the Lord, and wait
patiently for Him. That light may sometimes
shoAv hard things to be required, but do not
be distressed if thy heart should rebel ; bring
thy unwillingness and disobedience to Him, in
the faith that He will give thee power to over
come, for He can not fail. " Greater is He that is
in you, than he that is in the Avorld," so keep
close to Him, and the victory will be Avon. But
do not, I beseech thee, neglect any thing that is
required, for disobedience brings darkness ; and
do not reason or delay, but simply follow the
leadings of the Holy Spirit, and He will guide
thee into all peace. Baltimore, 1 mo., 29th, 1846.
I long for thee, my dear, and feel painfully
desirous that strength may be given to resist the
temptations surrounding thee, that thou may not
let go thy hold at all. We are seeking " a better
country, that is an heavenly," and there is more

38 MEMOIROF [Mt 25.
true satisfaction in suffering for Christ than in
any earthly enjoyment. Baltimore, 2 mo., 1st, 1846.
Hold fast the profession of your faith, with
out wavering, for He is faithful that promised.
Never be discouraged ; though Ave fall, Ave shall
rise again, if Ave look to Him who will not fail
to hear and help.
I long that every thing may work together
for thy good' — pleasure and pain, care and disap
pointment, if such come — but do not think it
must be all gloom. While I would not have
one burden lightened, which an All- wise Dis
poser of events lays upon us, or one cross re
moved, which He imposes, we must remember
Ave do not serve a hard Master, but a merciful
Father. Baltimore, 4 mo., 3d, 1846.
Try to keep humble and quiet. Eemember
it is not in the whirlwind, or the fire, that the
Lord speaks to His children, but in the still
small voice. It is the enemy that disturbs the
soul ; but as in reverent stillness we endeavor to
bow before the Lord, He will teach us of His

Mt 25.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 39
ways, and give us strength to walk in His paths.
As we continually strive to look to Him, He will
not forsake us, and the Avork, of which He is the
Author, He will also finish. In the early part
of our religious experience many fears arise lest
sacrifices may be called for, Avhich we think Ave
can not make, but Ave must not look too much
at these ; just give ourselves up, trusting that
strength Avill be given for Avhatever is required,
and the Avay will be made clear Avhen the time
arrives; "Why are ye fearful, oh ye of little
faith ?"
We know we love those who are dear to us ;
we know we avouH not let them suffer unneces
sarily, and that Ave Avould never let them stray,
nor allow any harm to come nigh them. When
we feel how strong this is in our finite natures,
let us remember that "God is love," and that
Avithal, He is All-wise and Almighty. " Enter
not into the hurryings of the enemy, though
they fill the soul," but look up with a trust, that
though all is dark now, light will yet be given.
This faith is more acceptable than any thing
else ; without it it is impossible to please Him.

40 MEMOIROF [Ml. 20.
Baltimore, 6th mo., 1847.
A mad dog was killed yesterday just before
our door, which rather alarmed me, as Ave were,
unconsciously, near such great danger. All hu
man prudence and foresight are unavailing to
preserve us ; Ave must take all proper precau
tions, and leave the result "to Him Avho doeth
all things Avell." What a comfort to believe we
are under His fatherly care ; none can pluck us
out of His hand, and Avhatever the dispensation
allotted us, He sees and knows it all, and can
preserve and comfort, through all He permits to
befall us. I have been thinking much lately of
the text, " Let patience have its perfect Avork."
Life is not intended merely for enjoyment ; it is
a state of trial and discipline, and I have desired
very much to resign every Avish, hope, and ex
pectation, every thing, into the hands of our hea
venly Father, Avilling to receive daily the portion
Avhich He allows, though it may be, and often is,
the cup of suffering. But He never lays more
upon His children than He gives ability to bear,
so let us look up to Him with filial confidence,
and in His own time He will give " beauty for

Mt. 27.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 41
ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and the gar
ment of praise for the spirit of heaviness." If we
folloAV the apostle's injunction, "In every thing
give thanks," we shall not be desponding ; and
if it be the will of our heavenly Father that Ave
should glorify Him in the fires, may He give us
strength to say " Thy will be done." When the
furnace was heated seven times hotter than it
was wont to be, there was a form like the Son
of God with the three children there.
She writes thus in her journal : —
10 mo., 8th, 1847. I had a precious feeling
of comfort this morning in the thought, that it
is no matter how despised we may be, if we are
permitted to find acceptance in the Beloved. It
may be that pride and self love mingle with our
desires for usefulness, even in the Church. If
He see meet to refuse the qualification, He may
give it to others. "The meek will He guide
in judgment, and the meek will He teach his
Avay. The Avilliugness to be nothing, if that be His
will, is sweet, and I desire to be very thankful
4*

42 MEMOIROF f^Et. 27,
for this little ray of comfort, vouchsafed after a
time of deep humiliation. I have the deepest
cause for thankfulness in my abundant bless
ings ; my cup runneth over. May I see clearly
what my duty is, and be favored with strength
to do it, not consulting my OAvn ease or plea
sure. In a letter to a dear friend she thus con
tinues this subject : — Baltimore, 11 mo, 7th, 1847.
This stripped, Aveak state is very trying to
that part which would fain seek the honor Avhich
cometh from man. I have been Avell-nigh dis
mayed, sometimes entirely so, but the heights
have a greater tendency to separate us from the
love of God than the depths. When the cross
of Christ is the only refuge, Avith what strength
of despair the soul clings to it.
Ah, my dear, this is a pilgrimage — a war
fare — no stopping for permanent rest until the
journey is over — no putting off the armor, or
laying down the weapons, until the victory is
won. I have excused myself in various ways

Mt 27.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 43
from labor. I said I was weak, that I had other
cares, that I was afraid of a forward spirit ; but
I now see that it is in a great measure the with
holding more than was meet that has tended to
my deep poverty, and that if simple obedience
had been yielded to gentle intimations, I should
have had more peace.
Time is passing away very rapidly with us
both ; we ought before very long to stand as
soldiers in the fight. Are Ave making the prog
ress which will qualify us for this? Are we
casting aside creaturely activity, the love of the
world, and the fear of it, and deepening in the
root ? Indeed, this is a very serious matter for
us to think of, now that Ave are mothers, and
must seek for strength to guide and restrain
those who are dearer to us than life. If we could
but dwell under a constant concern for the right
advancement of our dear children, I believe it
would be very effectual. May the Lord take our
little ones into His flock !
3 mo., 4th, 1848. I have had not a little quiet
comfort this morning ; but I have been exceed-

44 MEMOIROF [Mt. 27.
ingly tried and exercised in the desire, that while
I am faithful to the law and the testimony, I
may in no Avise depart from a loving and chari
table spirit. I see much that I think is Avrong;
may I be favored to preserve the right medium
between too much liberality and bigotry. Could
I but be preserved in a loving, humble spirit,
how happy I might always be. There is the
command, "Judge not:" let mo ever bear this
in mind. As a member of Friends' Prison Associa
tion, she frequently spent the afternoon of
First day at the Maryland Penitentiary,
for the purpose of teaching the women
confined there. In reference to these vis
its, she says in her journal : —
I wish I could relieve my mind of the bur
dens that oppress it. I long to speak to the
Avomen, but have not courage. I have almost
come to the conclusion that utterance never Avill
be given.
It will be seen by the next extract that

Mt. 28.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 45
she was favored with strength to perform
what seemed required at her hands.
3 mo., 28th. Last First day I Avent out to
the Penitentiary in much heaviness ; but though
something seemed to present itself before me, I
felt there was so much handed forth, I might be
excused. However, after  had finished,
she turned to me and asked if I had any thing
to say, Avhen in great weakness, and in a stam
mering; manner, I said a few words on the neces-
sity of prayer. Afterwards I had great openness
and a degree of success Avith my class, and in re
turning, and for the rest of the evening, my peace
flowed as a river; yet there Avas nothing Avhat
ever for the flesh to glory in.
12 mo., 13th, 1848. I felt this morning after
the reading as though I would like to express a
desire that we might live nearer our heavenly
Father ; but I shrunk, because I feared I might
do Avrong during the day, and thus bring re
proach upon His cause. This Avas faithless, I
know, but I am so weak. Oh, my Father, look
down with pity ; and if Thou hast any service

46 MEMOIR OF [Mt 28.
for me to perform, keep me near Thee in hu
mility, and let none of my actions bring reproach
upon Thy cause, or blood upon my own head.
In a letter to an aunt she Writes :—
Baltimore, 12 mo, 20th, 1848.
My journeying has been mostly in the Avil-
derness since Ave met ; but this matters little if
Ave can feel any evidence that the journey has
been onward. The fear that it has not, has been
cause of the greatest sorrow and discouragement,
yet there has been some arising of the well-spring
of life. May we be favored to journey forward,
keeping very near to our Master, and willing to
follow Him whithersoever He leadeth.
I thought I felt a freedom to speak in this
way to thee, my dear, to whom I feel bound, not
only by the ties of natural affection, but by a
deeper and stronger tie of spiritual sympathy,
in which I have felt to crave for thee, as for my
own soul, greater advancement and more heart
felt devotion, and such a close keeping to the
light, even here amid trials and temptations, that
so we may be " always with the Lord." Since we

Mt. 28.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 47
may truly say our cup runneth over, may we
strive to prove our thankfulness by our obedi
ence. Oh, how earnestly do I crave this, having
proved so fully that the smile of our heavenly
Father lights even the darkest path, and without
it even the brightest is gloomy.
That one so sensitive as the subject of
this Memoir, who habitually tested herself
by the highest standard, should often feel
deeply her own shortcomings, and that the
entries in her journal, or her confidential
letters, should at such times give evidence
of it, will not surprise those who knew her.
But it would be doing injustice to her char
acter, and especially to her Christian course,
did we suppose that these struggles after
the "life hid with Christ in God" unfitted
her for the cheerful performance of social
duties, or lessened her enjoyment of the
blessings by which she was surrounded.
She was in truth the light of her house
hold, and found a constant source of pure

48 MEMOIROF |>Et. 28.
pleasure to herself in the duties of a wife
and mother. She entered with the fullest
sympathy into the innocent enjoyments of
her family, drawing on her own resources
for their encouragement and instruction ;
or aiding them in the appreciation of the
beauties of Nature. It was beautiful to re
mark how all her experience of the love
and mercy of her heavenly Father did but
deepen her love, first for the little family
group, and then in ever expanding circles
for all the objects of His tender regard.-
Nor was it less instructive to learn from
her example, that while true piety hum
bles us under a keener sense of our defi
ciencies, it teaches us to use all the facul
ties Avith which He has endowed us in the
service of our Lord; and that such per
formance of duty is rewarded by an in
crease of ability, as well as by the evidence
of His gracious approval.

Mt 29.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 49
During the visit of our friend, Hannah
C. Backhouse, to this country in 1833, she
was much interested in promoting Scriptu
ral instruction, and First day schools were
established through her influence, in New
Bedford as well as in many other places.
With the former, E. T. King was connected,
first as a scholar and afterwards as a teacher,
until the time of her removal to Baltimore.
Her interest in this subject was very
great, as well as her power of awakening
a corresponding feeling in others. She de
lighted to point out the love of God as dis
played in the plan of redemption, the
agreement of the different parts of Scrip
ture, and the exact fulfillment of prophecy.
The knowledge she had culled from va
rious sources was all brought into use, and
the simple manner in which the information
wasconveyed, waswell calculated to impress
the minds of those she sought to instruct.
One of her scholars recently remarked.
5

50 MEMOIROF [Mt29.
that though the Bible had been familiar to
her from infancy, her first pleasant impres
sions and real interest in it, were received
at that time.
The following letter will further show
her diligence in every good word and
work : Baltimore, 5 mo., 13th.
Another subject much on my mind is the es
tablishment of a House of Industry here, and a
colored school in connection with it, which I
hope Avill be accomplished. I have not any quali
fication for starting or managing such a thing,
but I Avant to get those to work Avho can.
I do not think, my dear, that the prospect of
success is the moving principle Avith those who
carry on benevolent works even most success
fully. They do it because they can not help it —
because it is their duty to act, leaving the re
sults ; for they are often apparent failures. They
do good, hoping for nothing again ; but I do not
deny that there is a seed of good in every human
heart, though it is often so choked and over
grown that it is entirely unfruitful.

Ml. 29.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 51
The following letter was addressed to
 and  on the occasion of the

death of their two only children : —
Baltimore. 9 mo., 17th, 1849.
Although you may be at first surprised at
receiving a letter from me, I do not think you
Avill consider it an intrusion, since it is prompted
by very deep and heartfelt sympathy with you
in the recent affliction Avhich you have exper
ienced. I feel it more sensibly as my own chil
dren were very nearly of the same age with your
little darlings, and I naturally felt a stronger
interest in them. But I have very earnestly
desired, that although this stroke may at first
appear overwhelming, you may be enabled to
trace in it the hand of a gracious Father who has
taken your little ones from the evil to come, to
be for ever at rest in His bosom.
In looking on my own children, and think
ing of the trials, the sorrows, and, above all, the
temptations of this world, I have often felt that
I could not ask life for them — only that when
He saw meet, whether it was sooner or later, He
would take them to Himself.

52

MEMOIR OF [Mt 29.

Indeed, my dear friends, there is abiding con
solation in the thought that whatever storms may
now come, they can not reach these precious ones,
Avho are now mingling with the angelic throng in
that city where none can say " I am sick.''
Do you think that I am in any degree in
sensible to the suffering you must experience ?
I know how your hearts Avill yearn for the sweet
voices of your children, and how lonely your
home Avill seem ; but I earnestly desire that the
Father of mercies and God of all consolation
may be near you, pouring the oil and the Avine
into your stricken hearts. Eemember, " affliction
cometh not forth from the dust, neither doth
trouble spring from the ground ;" all our chasten-
in gs are from the hand of a Father Avho loves
His children better than Ave love ours, and doth
not willingly afflict them. May you feel this a
renewed call to be more dedicated to His ser
vice ; and now, that your treasures are in heaven,
may your hearts be there more exclusively, and
the time may yet come that you will say with
thankful hearts " It is good for me that I have
been afflicted."

Mt £9.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 53
While I Avrite I feel that words are inade
quate either to express my own feelings or to
convey any comfort to your hearts ; and I again
commend you, and particularly thee, my dear
 , as I know how keen the anguish of a
mother must be, to Him Avho is the Comforter,
the Helper, and the Stay of all who look to Him
for consolation. May He give you resignation
to His will, that you may be enabled to say, " It
is the Lord, let Him do what seemeth to Him
good." To one of her sisters : —
Baltimore, 12 mo., 1849.
We were speaking of the different views in
regard to dress. I think we must learn not to
put entire confidence in any one's judgment in
regard to it. If we keep low and humble, Avith
a single eye, we shall be directed, in little as well
as great things ; but if any Friend were troubled
with any thing I wore, I should, if I felt at lib
erty, alter it. We may draw humiliating lessons
from the condescending love and goodness of
our heavenly Father, Avho certainly does give
5*

54 MEMOIROF [Mt. 29.
precious spiritual gifts to His unworthy crea
tures, who must appear beyond measure frail in
His sight.
Some among us may indulge too much in
dress; that may be their infirmity. Others in
dulge too much in making remarks upon it —
that may be their weakness; but both may, re
deemed and purified from all these besetments,
join together in the most perfect love and har
mony, in singing the song of Moses and of the
Lamb. It seems to me that the only Avay to go.
through the world is just loving, and in the
deepest humility, conscious of our OAvn weakness,
making allowances for everybody.
Her married life had hitherto been un
clouded ; but in the summer of this year,
1850, she was called to resign a lovely in
fant to the arms of her Saviour. While
keenly feeling the blow, she clung with
loving submission to the Hand that dealt it,
and, trusting in her God for strength, was
enabled to say, " It is well with the child."

Ml. 30.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 55
In a letter to a relative she thus alludes
to her loss : — Baltimore, 9 mo., 1850.
Since I have had a child in heaven, it has
seemed to me I was nearer to the glorified spirits.
I can not tell Avhat an effect this bereavement
has had upon me. There are times when my
heart yearns so for my dear little babe, that it
seems as if I could scarcely endure it ; but for
the most part I feel the deepest and purest thank
fulness that she is at rest ; that whatever I may
have to struggle Avith. nothing can reach her.
Sometimes I sink beneath it, but not often now,
and I hope, that both through the joy and the
sorrow, she may be the means of bringing me
nearer to a state in which I may be fitted to re
join her. It seems as if I almost forgot earth,
Avith all its beauty and all its blessings, in think
ing of those who have entered within the pearl
gates, into that city where none shall say, " I am
sick," where God Himself shall wipe away all
tears from their eyes. With this prospect be
fore us, surely we shall always be found " rejoic
ing in hope, patient in tribulation ;" and if at

56 MEMOIROF [Mt 30.
times a feeling of unworthiness so possesses our
hearts, that we can not think an entrance into that
kingdom can be permitted us; let us remember
in faith, that it is not by works, but " according
to His mercy He saveth us." Surely, if the Lord
were pleased to destroy us, He would not have
showed us the things we have heretofore been
taught." A family resided in an alley in the rear
of her residence, which had become the
terror of the neighborhood from the vio
lent and imperious temper of the mother,
and the abandoned lives of her sons, two
of whom were about being tried for arson
and murder.
The mind of Elizabeth T. King was
drawn towards them, and, as might be
expected, from the natural delicacy and
timidity of her feelings, she shrank from
the prospect of making them a visit.
While hesitating under the concern, she
stepped into a croAvded omnibus in the

Mt. 30.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 57
lower part of the city, and as one after
another of the passengers left it, she un
expectedly found herself riding alone with
this woman. She felt no openness to re
lieve her mind then, but had a confirma
tion of her first impressions of duty, to
visit her in her own house.
On parting from her, however, she af
fectionately commended her to a Saviour's
love, to which the woman made no reply,
but looked at her with wild surprise as
though it were a new message.
The visit was paid next day, and the
woman's respectful and interested manner'
showed that the gentle loving spirit of our
friend had won upon her heart. The oppor
tunity was an open and relieving one, and
we trust that He who had sent the message
had prepared the heart to receive it.
The woman was taken ill sometime af
terwards, and lingered for six months ;

58 MEMOIROF [ML 30.
but in this time she was mercifully fav
ored to experience the forgiveness of her
sins. A new heart, was given her, and
she died in the Christian's hope and trust.
12 mo. 8th, 1850. — The recurrence of
the birth-day of her oldest daughter : — ¦
I have been feeling very seriously on this
occasion our great responsibility and the con
stant need of watching, not only over the chil
dren, but also over ourselves, that no unfaith
fulness in any way should so dim our spiritual
sight, or Aveaken our strength, as that in the
time of future need we should be unable to see
or to follow the course Avhich would be most for
their good. There is a great deal in this, faith
fully to do the present duty, little or great, that
Ave may have light and strength for the rest;
and oh, how important does this seem, when we
have to guide and influence others who are
dearer than ourselves !
To a young friend on the eve of mar
riage: — ¦

Mt 30.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 59
Baltimore, 12mo., 1850.
I know from experience that thy thoughts
must often be very serious in looking forward to
such an important event as marriage. Even un
der the happiest circumstances, and where the
most perfect confidence exists, Avith reason, on
both sides, still there are many moments when
the heart, feeling its own weakness, boAvs in
deep humility before the Source of Strength,
asking for light to see, and ability to perform,
all the duties which belong to the new and im
portant station. I look to thee, knowing the in
fluence thou wilt possess over thy husband, in
the earnest hope that thou Avilt use that influence
for his good ; that so you may go on together,
earning and receiving the blessing which mak
eth truly rich, and unto Avhich no sorroAV is
added. Far be it from me to prescribe any particu
lar course of conduct. I am only desirous that
you may obey all the intimations of duty which
are made manifest in the secrets of your own
hearts, however little or however great they
may be ; and my only reason for desiring this

60 MEMOIROF f^Et. 30.
is, that the peace of God which passeth all un
derstanding may be added to the other blessings
Avhich in the richness of His mercy He is shower
ing upon you, for, without this crown, the others
lose their sweetest enjoyments. I speak that I
do know, Avhen I assure you, that the truest, the
deepest, the most devoted affection given and
received, will fail to satisfy the whole thirst of
the soul, unless this is also added.
I believe you are both attached to the prin
ciples of our religious Society, although you may
not be fully prepared to unite Avith, or at least
to practice upon some of its peculiar vieAVS. May
I say, that while I believe I feel the most un
limited charity towards all religious denomi
nations, and heartily rejoice in the full convic
tion that many from them all will join the " in
numerable company," in which I trust we also
may some day be found ; I have a decided be
lief that our own views, in all their strictness
and purity, are the most conducive to the high
est spiritual attainments, to the truest spiritual
comfort and peace.

At. 30.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 61
To one of her sisters : — Baltimore, 4 mo., 1851.
I have been out riding to-day, and the
beauty of the opening spring really exhilarated
my spirits. The buds are unfolding, the wil
lows are quite green, the grass is bright, and
there are even some simple flowers among it.
I thought Iioav marvelous must be the loving-
kindness of Him who could lavish such beauty
around us.
If only our necessary wants had been pro
vided for, it would have been enough to excite
our gratitude ; but think of the means provided
for our enjoyment also.
In the summer of 1851 she was again
called upon to part with an infant daugh
ter. This bereavement was keenly felt;
but with quiet submission she could say,
" It is the Lord ; let Him do as it seemeth
Him good."
She thus speaks of this trial to a very
dear friend: —

62 MEMOIROF [At. 30.
Baltimore, 6 mo., 20th, 1851.
* * * I must very briefly give thee an
account of our situation, knowing that thy ready
feeling and sympathy will fill up the outline.
Words can scarcely describe my deep happiness,
when lovely, perfect and apparently healthy, my
darling babe was brought to me; but our Fa
ther saw meet very soon to destroy these hopes,
Avhich had almost become certainty, and, after a
day and night of agonizing suspense, He took
our darling to Himself.
I, too, have been brought very low, even to
the brink of the grave ; but He has raised me up,
and very earnestly do I desire that this renewed
chastisement may be the means of Aveaning us
more from the world, and causing us to be wholly
devoted to His service.
Now, my beloved friend, I can not dwell
longer upon this, neither is it needful. Thou
wilt know what the suffering, the sorrow, the
awfulness of the near prospect of eternity must
have been. Thou wilt know Avhat we must have
felt in our human weakness, and fhou Avilt know,
too, what we desire, and I humbly trust, are, at

At. 31.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 63
times, favored to feel, not only resignation, but
acquiescence and thankfulness, in the undoubted
belief that He doeth all things well.
Mayst thou be permitted to intercede for me,
that all His purposes concerning me may be
fulfilled, that In no Avise may I fall short of His
requirings. To a friend who had spoken rather com-
plainingly of the ingratitude to be found
in the world, she writes :—
Baltimore, 12 mo, 1851.
Over sensitiveness is only a pretty name for
self-love and unsubdued pride, and Ave must
learn to give, hoping for nothing again; to. be
just as kind, just as thoughtful of the comfort
of others as if we had a debt of gratitude to pay
them. I believe that death must pass over all our
natural feelings, even those which seem most
pure and lovely, and, as we progress in the new
life, that charity which "beareth," "hopeth,"
and " endureth all things," which " never faileth,"
will take the place of our easily Avounded and

64 MEMOIR OF [At. 31.
discouraged earthly affections, and we shall more
and more " dwell in love."
Ah how beautiful such a state looks; shall I
ever reach it ? But as I ask the question, the
Avords of the Apostle spring up in my mind,
" I thank God Avho give thus the victory, through
Jesus Christ our Lord." So we are bound to be
lieve, that by Avatching and striving, through
faith and obedience, our sincere, earnest prayers
will be answered, and the Lord will, according
to His promise, perfect that which concerneth
us. I dwell mostly in the valley of humiliation ;
and, though it is often bitter and painful, yet at
times I am permitted to feel that the dews fall
gently there, and that it is a sweet abiding place.
My great fear is of bringing reproach upon
the cause, of being a stumbling-block in the
Avay of others, and my petition is almost con
stant, "Let not them that love Thy name be
confounded because of me." Baltimore, 3 mo, 24th, 1852.
Let us try to get ourselves into the right
spirit, one of quiet seeking to do the will of our

At 31.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 65
heavenly Father, neither of restless activity, nor
selfish shrinking from exertion, and I have no
doubt Ave shall be daily and hourly directed
Avhere to go and what to do.
Very often our infirmities will cause us to
make humiliating mistakes, which will also work
together for our good, in rooting out pride and
selfishness. I do not mean that we should re
quire special direction about little matters. But
Avhen "the eye is single," the whole body will be
full of light, and we shall realize the truth of the
promise, "I will guide thee by mine eye."
From her journal : —
5 mo., 17th. I am and have been much ex
ercised to know how I can do good to others,
there is so much that requires doing. Indolence
and a love of pleasing interfere sadly with our
usefulness. May I be always ready to hear the
call, and obey it.
I am also deeply exercised about my call
to declare to others the unsearchable riches of
Christ. Permit me, oh merciful Lord, to commit
6*

fJ6 MEMOIROF [At 32.
this to Thee ! Thou knowest I desire to be and
to do all that Thou requirest ; Thou knowest
my weakness and ignorance. I give it all up to
Thy care, beseeching that Thou wilt work in me
to will and to do of Thine own good pleasure,
since I humbly believe there is no Avillful Avi:h-
holding. It Avill be no cause of surprise to those
Avho have thus far followed her course to
learn, that though for a season she had
been in heaviness, through manifold temp
tations, He, who was preparing her for
further usefulness in His Church, was now
pleased to break her bonds.
Not only did He give ability to perform
His will, but also an abundant reward for
faithfulness. This change is best described
by her OAvn letters to a sister : —
Baltimore, 8 mo, 20th, 1852.
For many years I have had an impression
on my mind that I should sometime be called
to even more public service in the Church than

At. 32.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 67
I have known hitherto ; and about a year and a
half ago it seemed to me that the time had come.
Every reason that could be urged against it, every
caution, every fear and doubt, have been pre
sented to my mind with great force. I Avas
ready to say, and I did long say, Send by whom
thou wilt send, but not by me. Still, thanks to
the long-suffering kindness of our merciful Fa
ther, seeing as I believe He did, that it Avas more
through weakness than willfulness that I fell
short of His requirings, He did not cease to
strive until my will was subdued, my reason
ings quieted, and I Avas made willing to give up
all in the obedience of faith. Last Fourth day
morning I had such a vision of the love and mer
cy of the Father, and of' the preciousness of the
Saviour, that I felt as if my will, even myself,
Avas- entirely swalloAved up; and I covenanted
that, let the bidding be Avhat it might, I would
gladly do it. I did not expect the trial of obed
ience Avould be so soon; for, when I Avent into
meeting the next morning, I had no idea that
any thing would be required of me. I had not,
however, sat long, before a few words presented,

68 MEMOIROF [At. 32.
with the conviction it would be right to express
them. I only asked clearness, for the fear of
man seemed taken away, and, with greater calm
ness than I had supposed possible, I did speak.
Since that time I have been very much pros
trated ; but my mind has been kept in so much
peace, that nothing has been difficult to bear.
Yet it was a little thing to do for Him who had
done so much for me ; neither could I have done
it Avithout His power : it was all His work, yet
He rewards it so sweetly ! In my great debility
I have been folded like a Aveary child in the
arms of Infinite Love and Compassion. I have
realized the promise, " As one whom his mother
comforteth, so will I comfort you." I can not,
indeed I scarcely dare speak, of the blessed com
munion Avith the Father, with which I have been
favored, of the trust that I Avas indeed a child ;
only that I would say to thee, Oh magnify the
Lord with me, and let us exalt His name toge
ther. I know very Avell that I can not remain
long on the mount. I knoAV that I must again
take up my wilderness journey, and struggle
with my infirmities of flesh and spirit, with out-

At. 32.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 69
ward trial and inward temptation ; but the prom
ise is, " My grace is sufficient for thee ;" " my
God shall supply all your need, according to
His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."*
To an intimate friend : —
Baltimore, 9 mo, 12th, 1852
I knoAV, my dear  , thou hast often
travailed with and for me in the desire that all
the Lord's requirings might be submitted to in
faith ; therefore, I may ask thee to join Avith me
in reverent thanksgiviog^to Him Avho has burst
my bonds, and enabled me to make the sacrifice
called for at my hands. To Him be the praise
of His own Avork. But, my beloved friend, wilt
thou join Avith me in humble and fervent peti
tions, that He Avill be pleased to keep me, poor,
weak child as I am, from errors on every hand
— the snares and temptations that beset us —
from going before or lagging behind the Divine
Leader ?
I have much to feel of the marvelous loving
kindness and tender mercy of our compassionate
* It may be well to remark that the religious Society of
Friends believe that a call and qualification for the ministry
is not confined to one sex.

70 MEMOIROF [At. 32.
Lord ; but I am more engaged to consider the
importance, and crave strength for the perform
ance of present duties, than to feed on yester
day's manna, sweet and precious and nqurishing
as it was. Baltimore, 9 mo., 23d, 1852.
We serve One who is the best of Masters,
and He calls for no service which He does not
give strength to perform ; therefore, all we have
to do, is to lie prostrate before Him, in the confid
ing trust that " He knoweth our frame," and rc-
gardeth our low estate.
Since we have only the duty of the present
moment to think of and perform, without look
ing back with unavailing regret, or forward with
unavailing anxiety ; since we are commanded to
bo careful for nothing, how quiet our minds
should always be. If we can but feel, that how
ever Aveak and unworthy Ave are, Ave can with
humble sincerity adopt the language, " Whom
have I in heaven but Thee, and there is none
upon earth I desire besides Thee.' I am very
jealous over myself, my dear  , lest in
seeking the precious sympathy of my friends,

At. 32.] ELIZABETH T.KING. 71
self our potent tormentor and deceiver, should
be fed. There is also danger of saying too much
on these subjects, without sufficiently feeling the
life to arise and accompany the words.
I think we have seen a superficial tendency
so prevalent as to render great care necessary
not to " darken counsel by words without knowl
edge." It is so necessary to keep little, low and
simple, and this is difficult for the spirit of man,
which would far rather spread out in the branch
es than deepen in the root.
May He Avhom we truly desire to serve Avatch
over and guard us in every way, and perfect that
which concerneth us, according to His gracious
promise. a£ V # £- # i>
But oh, my dear, what are we, what am I,
trembling, helpless, frail, sinking to the earth,
unless constantly upheld ?
This humiliating sense of Aveakness is not un-
frequently a snare to me ; but I trust I am be
ginning to feel that it is not in our own strength
we are called- upon to act. We must go forth
when bidden, relying that He who sends us to

72 MEMOIROF [At. 32.
the battle will furnish weapons, armor and abil
ity out of His abundance.
Truly we may adopt the language, ".How
great is His mercy towards them that fear Him,"
blotting out our transgressions, sustaining our
Aveakness, and proving Himself to be " the Fa
ther of mercies, and God of all consolation."
My heart seems to flow forth in this manner,
though under a deep sense of my unworthiness
of the least evidenca of this abiding love ; and I
feel drawn towards thee, dear  , in a sweet
quietness of spirit.
In this I trust we may mingle together be
fore the Throne of Grace, Avhile at the same time
the incense of adoration and praise may rise not
unacceptably from our hearts, as a fitting tribute
from one at least who has had much forgiven.
Again recurring to the journal, the fol
lowing entry occurs: —
9 mo., 30th, 1852. I want very much to be
able to please our young people, that they may
not be repelled by any dullness even — that I may

At. 32] ELIZABETH T. KING. 73
so adorn the doctrine as to win them to better
things. In this I trust it is not merely their affection
I seek. I believe there is a better motive, but it
requires great care, lest self-seeking should not
only come in, but gain the ascendancy.
Surely it is very desirable, placed in such a
difficult position as we are, to maintain cheerful
ness without levity, and to lead the conversation
in mixed society to profitable things.
It may not always be suitable to introduce
serious or religious subjects, as, unless the latter
is done in the right way and time, and under a
little of the right authority, it disgusts instead
of benefiting. The following tribute to her memory
from one of her young friends, will shoAV
that this desire was not without fruit.
"Together with a knowledge of books, and an
appreciation of the charms of literature, she pos
sessed an intense love for the beautiful works of
our heavenly Father, as displayed in nature.
" A mind so constituted could not fail to attract

74 MEMOIROF [At. 32.
the intelligent young people of her acquaintance,
to whom she was easily accessible, and in whose
welfare she took a lively interest.
" But what was most remarkable, as well as
most valuable, in her intercourse with her younger
friends, was the deep religious feeling, the ever
present sense of religious obligation, which har
monized her own thoughts and feelings, and was
impressed deeply upon all those who had the
pleasure of her intimate acquaintance, both by
the silent influence of example, and the gentle
voice of affectionate precept."
The sentiment which pervades the pre
ceding extract was one which greatly in
fluenced her in society. To remarkable
quickness of parts, she united a simplicity
of manner, which was the natural expres
sion of her artless and ingenuous character.
A stranger would be impressed by the
ease with which she placed herself by the
side of the younger members of the social
circle, and the gentle vivacity with which

At. 32.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 75
she entered into the conversation, wholly
unconscious of superiority, and of the
sweet influence she was shedding around
her. 10 mo., 1st, 1852. Yesterday I felt called
upon to speak a few Avords in meeting. The
struggle was great, from the fear that it was in
my own will and imagination. But I earnestly
desired to be kept from reasoning, and appealing
to the Searcher of Hearts to show me if I was
mistaken, I repeated a few words. After meet
ing I was assailed by a temptation, of which I.
Penington speaks, that I ought to know whether
I had been right, in order to be able to distin
guish again.
This is a subtle insinuation, but it was shown
me that I was not to trouble myself about it,
but say, " Get thee behind me, Satan, my good
Master will teach me in His own time."
After a little rest, my mind settled into quiet
peace, and has so continued ; nevertheless I can
truly say, I abhor myseif, and feel the enemy
without, and self within, are so continually tor-

76 MEMOIROF [At. 32.
menting, that though there is a state into which
they can not enter, they still annoy and distress.
To a young friend : —
Baltimore, 12 mo, 21st, 1852.
I have had quite a siege Avith infirmities of
various kinds, since Yearly Meeting. My hands
were disabled for about a month, being poisoned
from gathering autumn leaves, but I find, as I
have frequently before done, that it is not the
circumstances in which we are placed, but the
spirit in which we meet them, that constitutes
our comfort; and that this may be undisturbed, if
we seek for and cherish a feeling of quiet submis
sion, Avhatever may be the privations alloted us.
It has very sorrowfully impressed my mind
since I have been sick, how much strength and
peace and comfort are lost from Avant of an un
reserved dedication. Many feel a strong desire
to do right, and make some, it may be many,
sacrifices, but something is still kept back. The
will is not yet entirely subdued, and they miss
of the sweet and abundant peace with which He,
who is a rich reward er of all who diligently seek

At 32.] ELIZABETH T. .KING. 77
Him, fills the heart of His humble and obedient
children. I have longed to plead with those
that were near, and with those that were far off,
to delay no longer — to fill themselves no longer
with the miserable husks of earthly gratifications,
but to turn with all their heart to the tender
Father, the merciful Saviour, whose love has so
long pursued them, and who is still waiting to
be gracious. Words fail to express the marvel
ous loving-kindness and tender mercy of our God
even to the poorest and most unworthy of His
creatures ; how can any loDger stand aloof?
To a sister: — Baltimore, 1 mo, 5th, 1853.
I can fully sympathize with thee in feeling,
that mine enemies " are lively and they are
strong," but I have lately had great comfort in
another expression of the Psalmist, "Mine ad
versaries are all before Thee."
Not a temptation, not a besetment, not a
weakness, but He sees, and He that is in us, is
greater than he that is in the world.
We appeal to Him in sincerity, that we do
above all things desire to love and serve Him ;
7*

78 MEMOIROF [At. 32.
let us have faith in His unutterable love and
compassion, that He will in His own time, per
fect that which concerneth us.
Let us commit ourselves to Him in perfect
trust, that the sins which we unwillingly commit
are regarded by Him with a pitying eye ; that
the fountain set open, is always ready for our
cleansing, and that, being delivered from the
bondage of corruption, we may rise to the glo
rious liberty of the children of God.
We are not to wait until, by painful effort, we
have tried to make ourselves fit, but we are to
come now, just as we are, just as the lepers, the
sick, the blind, and helpless, came of old, and
believe that His mercy is now extended, that
His arm is now underneath for our support. I
have sometimes such views of the matchless love
and condescension of our heavenly Father, as
are inexpressible.
I so long that those who hold themselves aloof
from His calls, and seek pleasure only in the
Avorld, might come and see how good the Lord
is, that my tears are often ready to fall in lament
ing that they will persist in depriving themselves,

At. 32.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 79
not only of happiness in the world to come, but
in this also.

To a sister : — Baltimore, 2 mo., 13th, 1853.
I went to see  the other day ; she is suffer
ing keenly from her loss, but in submission. In
the course of conversation, she said she had been
made to feel very forcibly that to be any thing,
Ave must be nothing.
We can not be too strongly convinced of this,
yet the lesson of nothingness is very difficult to
learn. Even with good motives, with a strong
desire to promote the Avelfare of others, we may
sadly err by working in our own strength. The
authority must always be, " Have not I com
manded thee ?"
As we are willing and obedient, the field of
labor will open before us more widely, though
it may not be just that in which we would pre
fer to work.
To one of her sisters : —

30 MEMOIR OF [At. 32.
Baltimore, 3 mo., 1853.
I had a letter from <  • a day or two since.
It seemed to fall like dew on the mown grass, I
felt so Avithered and dry, the remembrance of
his meek and quiet spirit, which truly seems
careful for nothing, was quite refreshing.
It was after an act of required obedience that
I have felt thus stripped and poor, an evidence
that the dealings of our wise and gracious Master
are mysterious ; while the clay is not to say to
him that fashioneth it: " What makest Thou?"
No doubt if we are thoroughly purged, it must
be by the spirit of j udgment, and the spirit of
burning, and so the Avork is accomplished, let
Him use the means He seeth meet.
But we must remember, that the sun is always
shining, however dark the clouds may be, and
the power of our God, and the mercy of our
Saviour are the same, even though in our weak
ness we can not see them clearly. His blessed
will be done in and by us !
Oh I that He may in His mercy qualifv us all
in some degree to labor for the advancement of
His cause, that through whatever self-denial or

At. 32.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 81
suffering on our part, some poor wandering
sheep may be brought into the fold of everlast
ing peace.
To a sister : — Baltimore, 5 mo, 11th, 185a
It is the entire giving up that is Avanted, to
bring us to the peace which would make up for
every thing else, and which, from holding back,
we may, indeed Ave do, fail in acquiring. I had
to express something of this in meeting to-day,
desiring that Ave may know the " God of peace to
sanctify us wholly."
My way is so wonderfully made in my great
weakness, that it is marvelous to myself. " Did-
any ever trust in the Lord and were confounded?"
Oh, my dear, I desire to speak in the deepest
reverence and humility, but also with the deepest
gratitude for the help I have experienced, for the
extension of so much mercy to me so unworthy.
I have been reading one of the children's
books, " Father Brighthopes." It is a very pretty
one. One paragraph at the close, seemed to me
to express a very enviable condition. "I am

82 MEMOIR OF [At. 32.
going home. Our Father has given me my work
to do, and it is almost done. Oh, would I could
tell you how joyfully I shall put off corruption
for incorruption, and exchange mortality for im
mortality." I sometimes feel, when weary of the
conflict and almost ready to faint by the way,
what an unspeakable comfort it is to look for
ward to the time when, through the merits of
the Eedeemer, we may be permitted to join the
company of those who have come out of great
tribulation. To enter that city whose inhabi
tants shall no more say, "I am sick;" where
"there shall be no more death, neither sorrow
nor crying, neither shall there be any more
•pain;" but "the Lamb that is in the midst of the
throne shall feed them, and lead them unto living
fountains of waters, and God Himself shall wipe
away all tears from their eyes."
To return to her journal :
5th mo., 16th, 1853. This morning it seems
forcibly impressed upon my mind, that we must
keep ourselves in a state of readiness to hear
and obey every call to service, Avhich our Mas-

At. 32.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 83
ter may vouchsafe. So much time, so many op
portunities for usefulness, are lost, because we
are busy here and there, and neglecting the one
charge which is of the most importance.
24th. A feAV Avords presented in meeting this
morning, and remembering former experience,
I thought it was safest to utter them. I found
peace, great peace, afterwards ; mainly I thought
because I was willing and strengthened to speak
so as to be heard. But ah, how subtle and hoAV
powerful is the enemy ! As John Barclay says,
" The approbation, the regard, the sympathy of
such as love what is good, have required from
me all thfe watchfulness, all the earnest desires
for preservation, that I have been blessed with."
The unity and kindness of friends, Avith the
sense of peace and relief, were used by him, in
conjunction Avith the Aveakness of nature, and
the strength of self-love, to endeavor to exalt
me, and I have been so buffeted with these in
sinuations, that I have suffered greatly.
The summer of this year was passed in
New Bedford for the benefit of her health.

84 MEMOIROF [At. 33.
The rest and refreshment of the country
did not, however, render her forgetful of
the great object of her life. The desire of
her favorite Herbert was ever in her mind —
" Oh that I were the orange tree,
That busy plant,
Then should I ever laden be,
And never want
Some fruit for Him that dresseth me."
A pleasant evening walk terminated in
a visit to one under some depression, and
to whom E. T. K. felt drawn to offer a few
words of encouragement, which even now
live in the memory of her to whom they
were addressed.
To two of her friends at a distance, who
were similarly circumstanced, the following
letter was addressed :
New Bedford, 8 mo, 15th, 1853
Mt Dear Friends,
My mind has been turned to you to-dny with
so much tender sympathy and interest, that I
thought I should feel best satisfied to express it

At. 33.] ELIZ A BET HT. KING. 85
to you, although I know myself to be so poor
and weak that I can hardly believe that any
thing I can say can be of any interest or value.
I have desired, my dear friends, that both
you and I may be favored to keep very near to
our dear Saviour — daily, even hourly, waiting
upon Him to know what He would have us to
do, and then He will comfort us under every
trial, strengthen us in all our weakness, and give
a truer enjoyment of every blessing with Avhich
we are favored through the unmerited mercy of
our kind Father. I have thought a great deal
of the blessedness of being thus daily taught — ¦
of being kept in His spirit who was ' meek and
loAvly of heart ;' and I have believed that His
love was peculiarly towards you, and that haAr-
ing had experience in degree both of His guid
ing and protecting care, He is waiting to be more
and more gracious to you, as simple obedience to
the dictates of His Holy Spirit is yielded, both
in little things and great. I trust that the many
sweet and precious promises in the Holy Scrip
tures will be applied to you and realized in your
experience, and that He who 'sticketh closer

86 MEMOIROF [At. 33.
than a brother' will be a companion in hours of
loneliness and a comforter in times of trial, as
He Avill assuredly be to His obedient and de
pendent children.
May Ave then be favored to ' go on from
strength to strength,' not satisfied with any thing
but a total resignation of our wills and our affec
tions — until every thought even ' is brought into
captivity to the obedience of Christ,' for this is the
only way that true peace and rest can be attained.
With much tender affection and earnest de
sires that Ave may ' grow in grace and in the
knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, '
I am very sincerely your friend.
From her journal : —
8mo., 17th. Some self-abasement and con
trition under a sense of my great unworthiness,
Avhich I desire to record as a favor. I hope,
Avhen speaking of my own great sinfulness, to
separate it entirely from the sense of the pardon
ing mercy of God in Christ Jesus which I be
lieve is extended to me ; and I believe, too, that

Xi. 33.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 87
He is able to sanctify me wholly. ' Behold, I
am the Lord, the God of the whole earth, is any
thing too hard for me V
Oh, my blessed Master, keep me very close
to Thee. Let me not, through want of faith or
submission, in any degree fall short of Thy re-
quirings. I desire to commit my way wholly
unto Thee, to be directed as Thou sees meet.
The humble desire of my soul is that Thou
wouldst enable me to labor for the promotion of
Thy blessed cause. Enable me, if Thou seest
meet, to win souls to Thee, to adorn the doctrine
in all things. Oh send forth Thy light and Thy
truth into the world, constrain the sons of men
to leave lying vanities and come to Thee, in
whom alone they can find peace.
Oh, Father, Thou knowest the earnestness
with which I crave entire purification, that the
fruits of Thy Spirit maybe more manifest in ma,
that I may be kept in implicit obedience to Thy
will. Thou knoAvest that I am beset with infir
mities, but Thy power is above all. Thou hast
been pleased to open to me the riches of Thy
mercy in Christ Jesus, and in that do I trust.

88 MEMOIR OF [At. 33.
From this place she thus writes to her
husband : New Bedford, 8 mo, 1853.
With regard to my spiritual condition, I think
I may humbly and thankfully say, that there
seems to have been a little growth, in this, that
I see my faults more clearly, which conduces to
humility, and charity also. Not but that I
sometimes slide from this, but I trust that in
general I have more love, though my soul has
been so often pained Avith a liberty Avhich seems
not of the truth, that I am afraid I let in a
judging spirit.
I had such an impression made on my mind
the other evening, during the children's reading,
by this text, that I think I Avill tell thee. '' And
he did not many mighty works there because of
their unbelief." No doubt there would be much
more done for us, if we would but follow the in
junction " Be not afraid, only believe."
r May Ave be favored to go on " from faith to
faith," from " strength to strength," until Ave ob
tain the stature of a perfect man in Christ Jesus.

At. 33.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 89
But oh, how deeply and painfully I feel, that
there are so many, Avho for want of a single eye
and a simple faith, are falling short of the requi
sitions, which would conduce to their own peace
as well as usefulness.
To the same : — New Bedford, 8 mo., 20th, 1853.
This afternoon we went down to the funeral of
Uncle A.'s child. It Avas altogether a comfort
ing time. After  had spoken beautifully,
in allusion to the little one thus early taken
from the storms of life, I added a few words to
this effect, that I had felt such a firm conviction
that it was out of the very abundance of the
loving kindness and tender mercy of our heav
enly Father, that He chasteneth His children,
that I desired that all of us, who had been privi
leged to partake of His chastisement — and Avho
has not drunk of the cup of sorrow ? — might be
thereby drawn in closer bonds of love to Him,
that none of His gracious purposes therein might
be frustrated, for He doth not afflict Avillingly,
nor grieve the children of men. The fear came
8*

90 MEMOIROF [At. 33.
in like a flood after I had spoken, that perhaps
I had only spoiled the effect of the previous
communication, but as soon as we rose, this
passed away, and a quiet feeling, as of resting
my weary head on the Saviour's bosom, was
granted. To the same : — New Bedford, 8 mo. 27th, 1853.
I think I missed my way in meeting this
morning. Very soon after we sat down, I was
shown very clearly that a mistake was made by
many, in understanding that the office of the
Eedeemer, in saving us from sin, Avas that He
saved us from the consequences and punishment
of sin, instead of sin itself. It did not, at first,
occur to me that this was for any one but myself,
but it kept coming up before me, and just before
meeting broke, it seemed that I ought to express
it. This disturbed me a little, and I thought I
would examine more closely Avhat was on my
mind, for there is so much danger in venturing
upon doctrinal points, especially the offices of the '
Saviour, and before my mind was fairly settled,

At. 33.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 91
meeting broke. I think I should have had a more
comfortable day, if I had risked the expression,
in a little more faith that the Master Avould, ac
cording to His promise, be with my mouth, and
teach me Avhat I should say ; but I hope to be
forgiven, as the disobedience was not Avillful.
I went to meeting feeling rather poorly, and
so oppressed with a sense of my manifold in
firmities, that I could not believe it possible I
should have any thing for others, but only hoped
I might be able to gather a little good for my
self However, as we learn by what we suffer, I
hope I shall be more prompt in future. As we
came out of meeting, John E. Davis stopped me
to say, that he had been thinking a great deal
about the first sermon his grandfather preached,
"Disobedience makes a long wilderness journey,
but faithfulness cuts it short."
To the same : — New Bedford, 9 mo. 3d, 1853.
This morning, in meeting, the concern I had
last First Day seemed unexpectedly to revive,

92 MEMOIR OF [At. 33.
though I thought I should distrust it, if it did,
and think it was merely my own work. How
ever, it seemed safest to express it — as nearly as
I remember in this way : " It appeared to me
there was an error committed by many in dwell
ing too exclusively on the office of the Saviour
in saving them from the consequences and pun
ishment of sin, rather than from sin itself —
whereas He is not only our atoning sacrifice,
our Mediator and Intercessor Avith the Father,
but by the operation of the Holy Spirit in our
hearts, He purifies them and makes them fit
temples for Himself to dwell in. But He can
not have fellowship Avith unrighteousness, there
fore He can not dwell in our hearts, although He
may visit them by His love, unless they are
made pure, 'even as He is pure.' I have desired,
dear friends, that Ave may none of us stop short
of entire conformity to the Divine will, that we
may realize this blessed experience, that He
may come in and make His abode with us."
It vvas truly in weakness and in fear and in
much trembling, that I uttered these few words,
and it shook my bodily frame so that after meet-

At. 33.] ELIZABETH T. "KING.

93

ing, which soon closed, I could scarcely stand,
but my mind was covered with a degree of that
sweet peace which is worth any sacrifice to ob
tain. Is it not marvelous how kindly I an;
dealt with ? New York, 9 mo. 14th, 1853.
It is quite late, my dear husband, and I have
no very satisfactory materials for writing, but I
Avanted so much to make thee a sharer in the
SAveet feelings of gratitude I have had to-day for
our preservation every way, that I could not re
frain from a few words of communion with thee.
I feel so satisfied Avith our situation, that it was
best to go, and best now to return, and on look
ing back I can truly say that the assurance
given the morning I left home, " Behold the
Lord thy God i3 with thee whithersoever thou
goest" has been fully realized; I have had so
much experience of His love, not only in His
sensible presence, but also in the withdrawal of
it — so that not only the fatness of the earth but
the dew of heaven has been my portion — I say
this in reverent thankfulness, and now I do

94 MEMOIROF [At. 33.
earnestly crave that we may follow on to know
the Lord yet more and more, and I believe the
injunction to us is, in the midst of our Aveakness
and infirmities, " Trust ye in the Lord forever,
for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength."
So I trust we may be favored to go on in the
strength of the Lord God — for He can not fail us
if we keep close to Him. Truly this evening
my cup runneth over — and I ask, " What shall
we render unto the Lord for all His benefits?"
Oh, my dearest, what an unspeakable favor to
have this feeling of peace after this visit, instead
of condemnation, for although I have nothing to
speak of but infirmities, it is such a mercy to
have been kept — to feel that even the sins I may
have committed have gone beforehand to judg
ment, that they have not been Avillful, that they
have not been persisted in, and humbly to trust
that they are forgiven, washed away in the blood
of the Lamb.
The accident on the Sound steamer last week,
made us a little thoughtful, but on lying doAvn
greatly fatigued, and having gone through so
much excitement that I feared I could not arrive

At 33.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 95
at any quiet of body or mind, these words
seemed given as my portion, "I will both lay
me down in peace and sleep, for Thou, Lord,
only, makest me dwell in safety." I can not ex
press to thee, my dearest husband, my feelings
of gratitude for this most unexpected boon of
sweet peace. I have gone on my way in such
weakness and trembling, feeling my own noth
ingness so much, that now to be blessed in this
manner, seems an unutterable favor. I hope I
have not seemed to Avish to display my treasures
— they are not mine, but His who can, and who
no doubt will, resume them, for we are not to be
trusted long with such — but I want thee to unite
with me in thanksgiving, and in earnest seeking
to know and to do more entirely the will of Him,
who has blessed us more abundantly than we can
ask or think.
A letter to one of her sisters : —
Baltimore, 11 mo., 2'7th, 1853.
I had a view to-day of the nature of the prayer
of faith, which was very instructive to me. It
was shown me that we do injustice to the charac-

95 MEMOIR OF [At. 33.
ter of the Father of mercies, by the doubting
manner in which we prefer our petition — that He
is far more ready to give us good gifts than we
are to ask for them. He loved us before we
loved Him, while we were yet in sin; how much
more will He love us when we are earnestly de
siring to forsake it, and turn unto Him with full
purpose of heart. Since we can truly say that
we desire neither outward comforts nor inward
consolations, but only that we may perfect holi
ness in His fear, we are bound to believe we
have the petitions we desire of Him, and to
come to Him in faith, nothing doubting.
On the opening of the new year she
thus writes to a friend who was laboring
under discouragements :
Baltimore, 1 mo., 1st, 1854.
I did not have an opportunity, my dear
friend, of fully telling thee all I would like this
evening, and think I will use this means,, hoping
that I shall not darken counsel by words without
knowledge. In reverent humility, and with a deep con-

At. 33.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 97
sciousness of entire unworthiness of the least of
the Lord's mercies, I may acknowledge that this
has been a day to me of peculiar enjoyment, a feast
of fat things, an experience of joy in believing,
with which I am not often privileged, not being
worthy to be trusted with such treasures. Yet
with all this, there is a deep feeling of self-abased-
ness and a sense of the necessity of pressing for
ward, and of the baptisms which are needed for
purification and refinement. But under this
abounding feeling of the mercy and goodness of
our heavenly Father, how dare I doubt that He
who has, I humbly trust, begun a good work in us,
is able to carry it on to His own praise ? Dear
friend, we must not limit the Holy One of Israel.
He is able to keep that which Ave have committed
unto Him — let us not therefore do injustice to
His love or His power by our distrust. I have
a very strong tendency to discouragement natu
rally, and for the most part can scarcely keep
my head above the billows — but I have lately
had such a view of the efficacy and the necessity
of faith, that I have not dared to let go my hold
— may I not hope that this was given in some
9

98 MEMOIR OF [At. 33.
measure for thy eucouragement also? I can not
express to thee the power with which it was
sealed upon my own mind.
I know the state of things is very sorrowful
among us — the suffering I endure at times is
little short of agony on that account — but let us
have " long patience ;" surely, I often think, if i"
am borne with, there is no cause for discourage
ment on account of any. But, my dear friend,
let us, in this also, cast our care upon the Lord,
patiently bearing whatever portion of sufferings
He sees meet to call us to fill up for His body's
sake, which is the Church, but not giving way
to unprofitable discouragements. Our own faith
fulness is all Avith which we have to do, and it
may be that He may condescend to bless that to
the advantage of others, though I feel it an at
tainment almost beyond my reach, if I may be
kept from doing them harm. I hope in what I
have said I have not been presumptuous in arro
gating any thing to myself, for truly I abhor
myself, and have nothing to glory in but my
many and abounding infirmities. But I have
had such a view to-day of the preciousness and

At.33.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 99
all-sufficiency of the Saviour, that I have been
glad to be nothing, and feel that both for myself
and others I can "praise Him for all that is past,
and trust Him for all that is to come."
After a visit from Josiah Forster, John
Candler, and Wm. Holmes, on their return
from Tennessee, where the remains of their
beloved partner in the work and service
of the Lord, Wm. Forster, had been laid,
she thus writes to a dear friend : —
Baltimore, 3 mo, 1st, 1854.
Thou may imagine it was a treat to us to have
the English Friends with us. Sorrowfully as all
were bowed down under the feeling of the great
loss they and the Church have sustained, still the
abounding consolation was also present, first, that
it was His will who doeth all things well, and
then, that the beloved companion and venerated
father in Israel, is at rest, where he will " ever be
with the Lord." To me there is such triumphant
joy, when such are called home, that the sound
of weeping seems lost in the burst of angelic
welcome.

100 MEMOIR OF [At. 33.
Now may He who called and qualified this
faithful laborer, grant that more such may be
sent forth into His harvest, that even a double
portion of the spirit of Elijah may rest upon
Elisha, for truly our hearts almost sink within
us at a view of the evils which appear to rage
almost unchecked in the world.
The prospect of a European war, and the
movement towards the extension of slavery in
this country, weigh down my spirit with such
sorrow, that I sometimes feel as if I could scarcely
endure it.
I am afraid I suffer more than is consistent
with perfect acquiescence in the will of Him who
sees the end from the beginning, and who can
so control it as to make the wrath of man praise
Him. But when I think of the misery, the de
vastation, the sin, the souls that will be hurried
unprepared into eternity, the evil passions that
will be fostered and strengthened, how can I feel
any thing but the deepest sorrow ?
In the spring of this year, in company
with H. B., C. F., M. C. and her husband,

At.33.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 101
husband, she visited some distant meetings
in the mountainous district of Pennsyl
vania, in fulfilment of an appointment by
the Yearly Meeting, and was absent about
two weeks. This service was performed
to the satisfaction of her friends and to her
own peace.
She thus alludes to it :
* * * I had some service with the young
in meeting, and also in private afterwards, and do
not feel condemnation either for giving or with
holding, though I am humblingly conscious that
imperfection clings to us, or rather to me, always.
On reaching home, found all well, according
to the promise which, I reverently believe, was
given me the morn I left, and which supported
me through the great fatigue and apparent dan
ger of our rough journey : " There shall no evil
befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh
thy dwelling."
Oh, how tenderly condescending is our gracious
Master to us in our infirmities, for not only was
the promise given, but faith given to trust in it.
q-»

102 MEMOIR OF [At.-33.
One small meeting, situated in the Alle
ghany Mountains, was considered too dis
tant and too inaccessible for the committee
to reach at that season of the year. All-
the others had been visited, and after her
return home, feeling a deep interest in that
little company, she felt constrained to send
them the following letter. It was read in
their meeting and afterwards in their sepa
rate families, and was very acceptable to
them. TO FRIENDS AT CLEARFIELD.
Dear Friends,
Although a stranger to you personally, I have
been brought, I trust, under a measure of that
Christian feeling which leads into deep and affec
tionate interest for the welfare of all, and more
particularly those Avho are seeking to serve the
Lord, tenderly to sympathize with you in being
deprived of the privileges which those enjoy who
are members of larger meetings. Still, beloved
friends, I have felt comfort for you and for us in

At. 33.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 103
remembering the words of the apostle: "Ye
need not that any man teach you, for the same
anointing teacheth you all things, and is truth
and no lie ; and even as it hath taught you, ye
shall abide in Him."
The declaration of the prophet, also, " All thy
children shall be taught of the Lord," is a'great
consolation to those who are often deprived of
outward ministration ; for what can be more,
beloved friends, than His teachings ? The most
favored instruments can only communicate what
He gives them, and there is no reason to believe
that He, whose tender mercies are over all His
works, will withhold His immediate teachings
from those who, in humility and sincerity, are
desiring to serve Him.
I have, therefore, beloved friends, in the
tenderest Christian love, craved for you, as Avell
as for ourselves, that we may be very careful
to mind these teachings, to keep very close
to Him who will guide us into all truth, who
will show us what we must do and what we
must leave undone, with unmistakable clearness,
if we are only obedient to the light which He

104 MEMOIR OF [At. 33.
gives us ; for disobedience always brings dark
ness and bewilderment.
Our Yearly meeting just closed has been a
favored season, and we are encouraged to believe
that our heavenly Father is watching over us for
good. Concern has been expressed that we should
be very careful in training our beloved children
to feel that the " one thing needful" is of the first
importance ; that we should be diligent ourselves
in reading the Holy Scriptures, and encourag
ing them in the practice of it; and retiring daily
to wait upon the Lord for strength to perform
our various duties ; and that we should be par
ticularly careful, as far as possible, to educate
them in a guarded manner, so that they will not
be exposed to the temptations of mixed schools.
The importance of being diligent in the attend
ance of our religious meetings was also dwelt
upon, believing that we should find strength and
comfort herein, even when the duty was per
formed under difficulty and discouragement.
I can not express, dear friends, how very near
you have been brought to my best feelings, and
hoAV earnestly I have craved that He who, in

At.33.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 105
His marvellous and unbounded love, " spared
not His own Son, but freely delivered Him up
for us all," may, in His mercy, " Avith Him also
freely give you all things," grant you strength to
walk acceptably before Him, that your light may
so shine before men, "that others, seeing your
good works, may be led to glorify Him ;" and,
finally, having faithfully served Him in your
generation, grant that " an entrance may be min
istered unto you abundantly into the everlasting
kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."
In tender Christian love and sympathy, I am
truly your friend.
From her journal : —
5 mo., 8th. I have been shown how, in my
very efforts to do right, self tried to gain the
ascendancy, and did in some measure succeed,
and that when ability was given me, instead of
ascribing it all to the Giver, I did, in degree,
adorn myself with the Lord's jewels. This was
in social intercourse. I have been brought under
condemnation for it, and desire to be kept little
and low.

106 MEMOIR OF [At.33.
While on a visit from home, she thus
writes to her husband :
 , 6 mo. 1854.
I had scarcely taken my seat in meeting this
morning, before an exercise seemed to come
upon me, mainly on behalf of the wanderers who
were seeking rest and finding none, and as soon
as the meeting was quiet, I ventured to suppli
cate for them, as well as for those who were
striving to serve the Lord, that their feet might
be kept from falling.
I never felt the fear of man so taken away, as
if love to their souls cast it out entirely ; and it
was not so much in the cross to appear, as in the
constraining power of the Spirit : " I was weary
with forbearing, and I could not stay." After
ward, ¦  spoke at some length from the text,
" Come unto me all ye that labor," etc., and  ¦
followed, turning the attention of these to the
Light within, so that there seemed to be a re
markable unanimity of exercise.
* * * I have had great cause for thank
fulness since being here; every thing seems to
have been ordered right. More than all, I feel

At. 34.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 107
quiet, conscious of abounding weakness, yet feel
ing as if He, who " took our infirmities and bare
our sicknesses," condescended to look down in
pity on His feeble child.
I Avant to be kept in humility but faithfulness,
yet I am sometimes discouraged by thinking
I am too much of a child in spiritual things,
even to know what I ought to do. However, I
trust that patient waiting, and quiet hoping, will
bring me out right at last.
Take good care of thyself, and remember we
concluded to have for the motto in our neAv
establishment, and in all our actions and plans,
henceforth, " But one thing is needful."
In the summer of this year, 1854, she
removed to a pleasant home, a few miles
distant from the city, where, in the enjoy
ment of the varying charms of nature, she
passed the remaining years of her life.
It was her delight to ramble with her
children, in the woods near the house, call
ing their attention to the beautiful spring
flowers, the little brook with its sparkling

108 MEMOIR OF [At 34.
waters, the many-colored leaves of autumn,
and the mosses of winter. All these she
delighted to point out as tokens of the
love and mercy of our heavenly Father,
who has not only provided so many things
for our need, but gives so many more for
our enjoyment. The children were often
summoned to accompany her to some
small houses not far distant, occupied by
poor colored families, to carry soup to a
sick woman, or clothes to a little child,
thus teaching them the pleasure of reliev
ing the necessities of others. On the
afternoon of First day, the children of
these families* were invited to her house,
and a company might be seen assembled
round the table, listening with eager inter
est to the wonderful stories of the Bible,
and learning lessons, which seemed strange
perhaps to them, of the love and mercy of
their Saviour.
Her daughters always had apart to per-

At 34.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 109
form in the school, and it proved a pleasant
hour to both teacher and pupils.
She had the faculty of improving time to
a remarkable degree, yet it Avas done so qui
etly and systematically that nothing seemed
to be an effort to her. She often quoted
an expression of a dear aged father in the
church, upon whose sympathy and expe
rience she loved to lean, "I never was in
a hurry." Truly a meek and quiet spirit,.
and a loving, cheerful heart, were given to
her, and all within her influence felt its
charm. Having some leisure this year,
she devoted a part of it to the study of
German from a sense of religious duty, be
lieving that it would be of service to her
in mingling with that class of the popula
tion. She accustomed herself to read the
German Bible daily for several years, and
often expressed her belief that, if her life
were spared, she would be led to labor
among that people. On one occasion, in
10

110 MEMOIR OF [At. 34.
visiting the Almshouse with a minister —
who had religious service with the inmates
— a poor German met them at the close,
and with much feeling, gave her to under
stand that she did not comprehend what
had been said. E. T. K. felt her heart
warmed toward the woman; and, after
a little silent waiting, text after text in
German was given her, and she was able
to relieve her own mind and comfort the
poor woman. She said afterwards that
this alone richly repaid her for the trouble
of acquiring the language.
Remembering the injunction, " Occupy
till I come," she was careful to embrace
openings for usefulness, however small they
might seem. Watchful over her own spirit,
and constantly depending on the Strong
for strength, few were more fully qualified
to comfort others with the comfort where
with she herself had been comforted of
God. Yet these acts were so quietly and

At. 34.] ELIZABETH T. KING. Ill
unostentatiously performed, as often to be
known only to the recipient. A note sent
to one under an impression of duty, or a
few words of counsel to another under
temptation, not unfrequently made an im
pression which will long remain.
While thus careful, as she says to a friend,
" to remember the injunction dear ¦ 
gave us, not to live too much to ourselves,"
she was very attentive to her domestic
duties, and it was in the privacy of home
that the beauty of her character was espe
cially manifested.
The education and training of her chil
dren was, to her, a subject of great im
portance, which she was unwilling to
delegate to others. Their lessons were
daily attended to, and while cultivating
their minds, she was careful to embrace
every opportunity for inculcating religious
truths. Any manifestation of wrong feel
ing was gently and tenderly rebuked, as

112 MEMOIR OF [At. 31.
a source of unhappiness to them as well as
to herself, but more than all as a sin against
their heavenly Father, to whom they were
taught to look as their Protector, cognizant
of every action.
With a view of instructing, as well as
interesting them, she wrote some little
tracts, drawn from incidents in their daily
lives, which were intended to enforce the
lessons she desired to teach. They were
originally prepared only for her own chil
dren, but were afterward published.
She had also commenced a Child's His
tory, in which she intended to present the
history of various nations in a more moral
point of view than is generally taken in
such books.
Her aspirations after faithful and entire
dedication will be shown by the following
lines, written by her about this time :
I ask the rest that spirit knows,
Whose will is wholly bowed to Thine ;

At 34] ELIZABETH T.KING. 113
That quiet and serene repose
That can its every wish resign.
I want to labor faithfully
Within Thy vineyard all my day,
But guided only by Thine eye,
Nor dare to choose my work or way.
And yet whenever, in Thy love,
Thou givest the command, " Be still,"
May I as joyfully prepare
To suffer, as to do Thy will.
I ask not comfort, joy, or peace,
For self in these, oft makes her throne ;
I only ask, Thou wilt not cease
Until Thy work be wholly done.
I can not rest until my heart
Is purged from every taint of sin,
And, through the blood of sprinkling, made
Fit for Thyself to enter in.
And well I know Thy changeless love
Will all Thy loving children cheer,
Whenever, on their thorny way,
Their spirits droop from doubt or fear.
AH this I trust to Thee alone,
But leave me not, until there be
On every action, word, and tone,
The impress, Holiness to Thee.
Extracts from a letter to an aunt : —
10*

114 MEMOIR OF (At 34.
Baltimore, 8 mo., 1854.
* * * I have felt that the first inquiry
every morning should be, " Lord, what' wilt
Thou have me to do ?" and to that, the first at
tention, and prime of my strength, should be
given, letting other things have their subordinate
place, trusting that ability will be given for what
is needful. Sometimes there seems to be an accumulation
of necessary duties, but I believe it is the enemy
who piles them up, and that the single eye Avould
not see so many.
A few days since, the questions seemed to
come to me with much force and solemnity —
What are we doing with our time, our talents,
and our money ? Is every thing done to the
glory of God, or to minister to our own pride
and love of ease ?
If not to His glory; what excuse have we ?
Not of ignorance, surely, the written law without,
and the Witness within, have taught us plainly.
Not of want of ability, for that is promised,
and will be given to all who seek it.
We say we will throw ourselves upon the

At 34.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 115
Mercy of God, but are we not abusing that
mercy by continuing in those things against
svhich His Spirit has a controversy ?
I can not tell thee how these questions have
Impressed me.
To one of her sisters : — Baltimore, 9 mo., 1854.
If we are only favored to keep in the right
way and the right spirit, nothing will befall us
which will not conduce to our advancement ; and
this comfort always remains, that the foundation
standeth sure.
It has seemed to me, that many difficulties
arise, in the first place, from leaving the indi
vidual Avork, and if rightly improved they will
drive us back to it ; while nothing will be per
mitted to harm us if we are " followers of that
which is good."
There is a rest which remaineth for the people
of God, which nothing shall disturb — the way
may be long and weary, but sooner or later the
end will be attained.
We may disquiet ourselves too much about

116 MEMOIR OF [At 34.
events we can not control, and the faults of
others which we can not mend. Having done
our duty, in humility and sincerity, there are
many things which we must leave to Him who
holdeth in His hand the hearts of the children
of men, and can turn them as He will. 10 mo., 1854.
My mind has been very much impressed with
the duties we owe our servants, in watching for
their souls, as they that must give an account.
They are placed, by the providence of God, un
der our care, that we may do them good, though
this is not always so much by direct instruction,
as by the influence of our daily lives and conver
sation, and our prayers on their behalf.
11 mo., 28th, 1854.
I have been very much impressed with the
injunction to show piety at home. It is poor
religion — is it not? — which can not bear little
trials, and keep in a meek and quiet spirit under
petty provocations and discouragements ! And
yet how many fail ! How I do ! 12 mo., 1854.
I quite agree with thee in thinking that some

At 34.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 117
of these outside things must be cut off. Let
those take them whose place it is, let every stone
have its right place in the temple, but let us wait
patiently and humbly for the great Master-builder
to put us in the one we are to occupy. No mat
ter if He seems to leave us comparatively useless
for a long time, perhaps we want long chipping,
and squaring, and polishing, before we are fit to
be placed at all. Baltimore, 1 mo., 1855.
I have suffered much from letting myself out
into reading [naming some writings with which,
in early life, she was much engrossed] which
tends to rouse up the old inhabitants of the land,
who promised to be servants and now want to
take the mastery again. My dear, thou dost not
know how hard it is for me to lay down this
crown ; it is truly like parting with a right eye.
Is it not sorrowful that it should be so hard to
give up after long struggles, and when I really
thought they Avere dead which sought the young
child's life? Do let us try to be faithful and
watchful, and beg earnestly for the precious
fruits and gifts of the Spirit. We do have such

118 . MEMOIR OF [At. 34.
answers to prayer when we are truly concerned,
that we ought to be encouraged. I do riot think
that I have ever asked that it has not been
given, both spiritual and temporal blessing, but
it is needful to get very low, to dwell in the spirit
of true prayer."
It must not be understood that she was
opposed to mental cultivation, or consid
ered the talents bestowed by our heavenly
Father were not all to be improved. This
was by no means the case, but it was her
desire that every thing should be kept in
its place, entirely subservient to the one
thing needful.
In a letter written in the early part of
her religious experience, she thus makes
the distinction :
I like thy distinction between mental improve
ment and mental excitement. It is the latter which
is so fascinating, that I am growing afraid to
trust myself in any degree to my former habits
and pursuits. M. J. Graham says in her memoirs,

At 34.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 119
"Study has been, to me, like the stuff of Achan,
beneath which was concealed the accursed thing."
It seems to me rather more of a snare than an
assistance, to any who would be likely to pursue
it " for its own sake," as some say it ought to be,
just as if we had any right to pursue any earthly
enjoyment " for its own sake." 1 mo., 1855.
It seems to me that we are called to great
watchfulness in our conduct toward all, avoid
ing even the appearance of evil, and careful not
to crush the least scruple in the little ones of the
flock. We ought also to take heed that our speech
be always " with grace, seasoned with salt," that
it may minister grace to the hearers. To redeem
the time, not only from our pleasures, but also
from our lawful and necessary cares, which too
often absorb so much of our time and attention
as not to leave us ability for the service which
our blessed Master would call us into. Thus,
though the days are evil, if we dwell so near our
dear Saviour, we shall be favored to make our

120 MEMOIR OF [At 34.
refuge under the shadow of the Almighty, till
these calamities are overpast. 2 mo., 19th, 1855.
But we need not be discouraged :
" He who hath helped us hitherto
Will help us all our journey through ;"
and this lesson of suffering, of nothingness, of
poverty, and desertion, is no doubt our most
profitable discipline.
Is it not a comfort to take every cup directly
from the hands of our tender Father, appealing
to Him — "Thou knowest all things, Thou know
est that I love Thee ?"
I was shown yesterday that the word to those
who were perhaps too anxiously inquiring —
"Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?" — was
" Best in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him,"
and that in quietness and confidence should be
their strength. That, however desirous they may
be to journey forward, they must wait until the
cloud is lifted from the tabernacle, and the word
is given, and " Though it tarry, wait for it, be
cause it will surely come, it will not tarry."

At. 34.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 121
To a, dear friend : — Baltimore, 3 mo., 3d, 1855.
I have been thinking much of thee of late,
and I have a mind to beguile the tediousness of
a heavy cold by writing a few lines. It is an
advantage to be sick a little now and then ; it is
a good time for ' taking an observation,' as the
sailors say, and finding out where we are ; for
sometimes those who are naturally inclined to
crowd all sail and make as much headway as pos
sible, find, when they are brought up in this way,
that they are considerably out of their true course.
I don't mean to write bitter things against
myself, but I have been sorrowfully convinced
that in what I thought necessary attention to
home duties, my time and strength have been
engrossed to a degree that I fear has interfered
with my duty to others.
It is a serious consideration how much good
we miss of doing by our want of watchfulness
for opportunities, and our engrossment even in
our lawful and necessary cares ; and there is an
other way, too, in the influence we might con
tinually exert over all who come in contact with
11

122 MEMOIR OF [At. 34.
us, and through them over others, to an extent
of which we are probably not aware, if we con
tinually kept in a meek and quiet spirit — if Ave
continually showed that our conversation was in
heaven. Ah, it may be with some of us that it
is more for what we leave undone than for what
we do, that we shall be called to an account.
There is such a tendency to cling to the present,
that it is very hard to remember constantly and
practically that Ave are but strangers and pilgrims
— that ' but one thing is needful,'' unless sometimes
eternity is brought, as it were, face to face with
us, as it has been within a few days past by the
death of my beloved friend, P. C. T.
I wish thou could see us in our pleasant home
in the country. My health has been very good
this Avinter. I do not think it has ever been bet
ter. I have gained flesh and strength surpris
ingly. The children have also been very well,
and our darling little baby has been a perfect
sunbeam to the household. She is now about
five months old, so lovely, healthy, and happy,
that I have had the most thorough and unalloyed
enjoyment Avith her.

At 34.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 123
I often sorrowfully feel the need of improve
ment in every way, and while desiring it for
myself, may I say, dear, that I have also been
led to crave for thee that there may be a grovjth
in grace, that we may be not almost, but alto
gether what our good Master would have us to
be — thoroughly redeemed from the spirit of the
world, constant, watchful, humble seekers to
know His will, and unflinching in our determi
nation to do it in spite of the pleadings which
our love of self, our love of ease, and our love
of the world may urge against this thorough
dedication of heart and soul to His service.
From her journal : — 2 mo., 24th.
Ah ! how carefully we have to keep our gar
ments about us — our loins girded to keep them
unspotted. To-day I endeavored to relieve my
mind of a burden which has for some time been
upon it — petitioning for some who were with
holding, and for all, that we might be kept daily
and hourly in such reverent fear, that neither
walking in our own ways, nor seeking our own
pleasures, nor speaking our own words, Ave might

124 MEMOIR OF [At 34.
walk in a perfect Avay acceptably before the Lord,
and be presented unblamable in holiness in His
sight. After I took my seat I had a most over-
Avhelming view of this state — the words coming
to my mind, ' Every man that hath this hope in
him purifieth himself even as He is pure ;" re
membering that all things must become new, and
all things of God ; connecting this with the om
nipotence of our Divine Helper, the promises to
supply all our need, the declaration, ' Behold, I
am the Lord, the God of the whole earth, is any
thing too hard for me ?' the efficacy of the prayer
of faith, so that there is no escape from the con
clusion that, so far as we fail, the fault is our own.
26th. One of our servants is going to leave
us to-day — a poor, ignorant fellow, who has tried
my patience greatly ; but I am much cast down
under the conviction that I have not done my
duty altogether to him. I have not taught, en
couraged, kindly and faithfully reproved him.
Be please'd to forgive me, 0 merciful Father !
and let not my brother's blood cry against me.
Now another man is coming. Oh, Father^ I do
humbly and earnestly beseech thee to help me
perform my duty to him.

Al. 34.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 125
To a sister :
Baltimore, 3 mo., 20th, 1855.
We must find out our own work. The only
safe way for me, I find, is to Avait day by day, to
have my work given me, and not be looking out
too much, or even too anxiously, for something
to do. It is surprising how, in this waiting state,
the way opens sometimes, and how it is closed
up at others ; but if I try to move in the dark I
mostly stumble, so then I have to keep quiet.
It is difficult to understand why, with the inclin
ation and the apparent ability to do, Ave should
ever be commanded to keep quiet, when there is
so much to be done ; but our ignorance is the
first lesson to be learned, and, alas! has to be
often repeated. Prayer, however, is our great
weapon ; we truly never ask aright for any thing
which is not granted.
Do not the repeated tidings of sickness and
death among our friends, which have reached
us lately, make thee feel very solemnly the un
certainty of every thing, the unreality of this
life ? As we grow older, one after another must
drop aAvay, until we go too. How strange it is
11*

126 MEMOIR OF [At. 34.
that we will persist in being so solicitous about
the accommodations and enjoyments on this
short journey !
From her journal : —
5 mo., 15th, 1855. I want to crave a blessing
on my study of the Bible, that my eyes may be
opened that I may behold Avondrous things out
of the law of God, for I am deeply sensible that
unless I am shown the true meaning by the
Spirit which gave it forth, I can not perceive it.
8 mo., 30th. Our longing for holiness is some
times a selfish, indolent Aveariaess of the conflict.
If our wills Avere entirely subdued, we should be
satisfied to remain in the furnace as long as our
good Master sees fit, and endure the fight of
temptations, which sometimes seems so terrible.
Ah, we want faith, faith that our tender and
omnipotent Father is able and willing at all
times to help us.
To her husband : — New York, 9 mo., 1855.
I had a very delightful visit at Burlington.
On First day we attended meeting, and afterward

At 35.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 127
went to see Stephen Grellet, Avho was j ust able
to come down stairs. He is extremely feeble,
can not speak above a whisper, but in a most
heavenly state of mind. I asked him how he
felt. " Very feeble," he said, " but my good Master
takes care of me ; I can trust Him ; He doeth
all things well." After a Avhile, we fell into
silence, and, although his. voice was so very
weak, he addressed us at some length, encourag
ing us to trust in the good Shepherd, who not
only took care of the sheep, but the lambs — who
taketh them in His arms, and carrieth in His
bosom, and gently leads those who are under
burdens and exercises, and when they have been
wounded in their wanderings over the barren
mountains and desolate places, He makes them
to lie down by the still waters, and in the green
pastures, and restores their souls. This testimony
to the goodness and mercy of our compassionate
Lord, from the aged saint who had had so long
experience of them, was very impressive. Al
together it was a visit which I think I shall
never forget, and which I shall probably never
repeat, he seemed so very feeble. I was received

128 MEMOIR OF [At. 35.
everywhere with the greatest kindness, Avhich al
ways surprises me, but it shows how Christian
love and charity cover a multitude of sins.
To one of her sisters : — Baltimore, 9 mo., 1855.
I don't know what is to become of us as a
Society ; it seems as if every thing which can be
shaken is to be removed ; but it is an abiding
comfort that all this — though it may, and indeed
must, cause suffering — need not hinder the indi
vidual work ; that the little* ones, and the weak
ones are just as much cared for as ever by the
great Shepherd, who still gathers the lambs in
His arms, and carries them in His bosom. The
power of the Almighty Father is still over all,
and under the shadow of His wings we may
make our refuge until these calamities be over
past ; and the great comfort is, that it is because
of our weakness and poverty, our utter helpless
ness, that we may come ; not for our righteous
ness, but for His great mercies, that we have the
claim.

At. 35.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 129
Baltimore, 11 mo, 20th, 1855.
I feel quite well now, only it seems to me I
am experiencing something of what a friend
says, " That the vessels, after having been used,
require purifying," which is not an operation
pleasing to the love of ease and comfort natural
to us.
I am feeling very seriously this morning that
while we have seen the disadvantage of formality
and narrowness of spirit, which refuses to be
introduced into that liberty which is the privilege
of the reconciled children of our tender Father ;
it is very needful to keep watch that the enemy
does not lead us quite as far from the right path,
though in a contrary direction, into self-indulg
ence, and a liberty Avhich is not of the Truth.
" No man that Avaxreth, entangleth himself with
the affairs of this life, that he may please Him
Avho hath chosen him to be a soldier," and yet a
proper attention to our outward concerns is ne
cessary, that Ave may not give occasion to the
adversary to speak reproachfully.
To a sister : —

130 MEMOIR OF [At. 35.
Baltimore, 12 mo., 22d, 1855.
My duties are very much contracted ; there is
not much perplexity about them, but we well
know that our work is what our Father gives us
to do, not what we in our own wisdom may
think needs attention.
I have been led to consider the beauty of
love and the necessity of it, and the folly and
wickedness — though it may be unconsciously so —
of going about finding fault with people, though
we may cloak it under the appearance of a zeal
for the truth and an abhorrence of sin. As if
the government were upon our shoulders! I
don't mean that we are not to feel grieved when
things go wrong — sin must trouble us, if we
view it rightly — but our grief should be without
bitterness against the sinner.
The time was now approaching in which
He who had called and fitted her for His
service, was pleased to say, "It is enough,"
and take her to Himself. During this
winter her health gradually failed, and
although those to whom she was so dear

At. 35.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 131
fondly hoped that one so well qualified for
usefulness in the militant church, would
not be removed, her own impression was,
that her days would be few.
This feeling, far from causing sorroAV,
seemed only to increase her desire to be
in readiness to resign her stewardship,
whenever the summons should come. She
had, for more than a year past, been a
member of the Ladies' Committee of the
House of Refuge, and was much interested
in this object, and earnest in her endeavors
to benefit the inmates.
She was exceedingly desirous of paying
another — and, as it proved, a final — visit
to this institution, but her health seemed
unequal to the effort. A little increase of
strength was however given, and this* act
of duty was performed.*
* The following extract from the Report of the Managers of
that Institution, will show how her labors were appreciated: —
" Our committee can not close this report without adverting
to the sad bereavement we have met with in the death of Mrs.

io.2 MEMOIR OF [At 35.
She had occupied the position of Clerk
to Baltimore Monthly Meeting of Women
Friends many years, and for two years pre
vious to this time, had acceptably served
that Yearly Meeting in the same capacity.
At the close of that held this year, she
made the following minute : — *
We are bound to acknowledge, in grateful
humility, that our heavenly Father has been
pleased to be very near us, since we have been
gathered together, and our drooping spirits have
been afresh encouraged to trust in Him at all
times. Whilst we have cause humbly to acknowledge
Elizabeth Taber King. She was one of the first selected by
your Board, and in losing her, the House of Refuge met with
no common loss. But God, in His wisdom, saw best to call her
to a better sphere. She was taken from us, but we trust that
the remembrance of her holy life, her usefulness, and the lovely
graces of her Christian character, will remain with us as a guiding
light, still shedding its sweet influences around us on earth,
while it lifts our thoughts heavenward, to that happy refuge
.f home, provided by God for those who love Him, where there is
no sin, nor sorrow, no more pain, nor sickness, nor death."
* Among "Friends" the men and women have separate
meetings for the administration of the Discipline.

At 35.J ELIZABETH T. KING. 133
that His Spirit has been at work amongst us,
both immediately and instrumentally, we crave
that the good desires which have been raised in
our hearts, may not be suffered to pass aAvay
without yielding fruit ; but that we may be in
cited to greater and continued diligence in every
good word or work, being solemnly impressed
with the necessity of doing with our might,
whatsoever our hands find to do, for the night
comelh.* During this winter she experienced se
vere bodily suffering at times, and deep
mental conflicts were also permitted, but
He whom she had chosen in youth, and to
whom her health and strength had been
devoted, did not forsake her. Remember-
* Before the time of the next Yearly Meeting the hand which
penned these lines, wa3 resting in the grave, and the gentle
spirit was for ever at rest.
In reference to this, the following minute was made by her
successor. " The minutes of the past year were read, and we were there
by reminded of the great loss we have sustained, in the removal
of our dear friend. ' Being dead she yet speaketh ;' and may we
heed the solemn injunction, ' Work while it is called to-day, for
the night cometh wherein no man can work.' "
12

134 MEMOIR OF [At. 35.
ing that we are but dust, He condescended
to her weakness, and in seasons of depres
sion, His arms bore her above the waves,
that they might not overwhelm.
Baltimore, 2 mo., 6th, 1856.
I hope, my dear  , thou wilt not feel sorry,
if thou art surprised, at receiving a little mes
senger from me, for I have been thinking of
thee more particularly of late, with much tender
and affectionate interest, and very earnest desires
that thou mayest be strengthened to do the whole
will of our heavenly Father, experiencing as the
result of it, a portion of that peace which flows
from this perfect acquiescence, and which is
truly "not as the world giveth." I so often
think of the remark of a Friend, that " Our Mas
ter gives large wages for very poor service."
Where all is offered up, it is so graciously ac
cepted, even if, in our poverty, we can only bring
" a pair of turtle-doves or two young pigeons."
Do not think, my dear friend, that I speak, feel
ing as if I am any thing, or know any thing of
myself I am the veriest child — poor, weak and

At 35.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 135
ignorant, inexpressibly so — but I can not refrain
from bearing testimony to the power of that
grace which, as it is submitted to, will cleanse,
and teach, and strengthen, until " old things are
clone aAvay, and all things become new and all
things of God."
I have been very feeble since thou wast here,
and, until last First day, have not been able to
attend meeting since Ave were there together.
But I have had a good deal of quiet enjoyment,
in spite of the physical suffering ; and have
mostly been enabled to fix my eyes so entirely
upon my numberless blessings as to lose sight of
eYery thing else. " Oh, that men Avould praise
the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful
works to the children of men."
I have had more time for reading than usual —
in fact, rather more time than ability — and,
among many other things, have re-read the life
of Joseph John Gurney, which has seemed to
me, more than ever before, a bright example of
the Christian graces. His indefatigable industry,
his entire dedication of himself, and all that he
¦had, to the service of his dear Master — his un-

136 MEMOIR OF [At. 35.
failing charity and deep humility, mark him out
as a most conspicuous ornament to his profession.
I Avas much pleased Avith a remark of his to a
friend in affliction : "I do not like any of the
dispensations of our heavenly Father to be called
severe," implying that they are all so tempered
with mercy, that, being sent in love, severity is
a harsh and unjust, term to apply to them. The
touching humility, too, with which he always
sought to derive spiritual benefit from the hum
blest Christians, particularly from their ministry,
is peculiarly worthy of imitation, especially now
that there is such a critical tendency prevalent.
I do not feel, my dear friend, that I can ex
press as I wish all that I feel with regard to thee
— but I do earnestly crave for us both, an entire
and unreserved dedication of our all to the will
and service of our blessed Master, that we may
be favored to keep very close to Him, and folio w
Him whithersoever He leadeth. I believe I have
been brought into sympathy with what may
have been at times the struggles and sorrows of
thy spirit, and much desire that we may be

At. 35.] ELIZABETH T. KIXG. 137
favored to yield that unreserved obedience
Avhich will alone bring us peace.
In much tender affection I am thy friend. *
To one of her young friends : —
Baltimore, 2 mo., 6th, 1856.
I suppose I shall be an unexpected corres
pondent, dear  , but I hope not an unwel
come one, as I have been thinking of thee lately
with so much affectionate interest that I would
like to give some expression to it.
I have been very feeble this winter; and until
last First day, have been able even to attend
meeting but once in about tAvo months ; never
theless I have had a very nice time at home;
sometimes, but not often, feeling a little worn by
the pressure of long-continued suffering and de
bility, but mostly enabled to look on the bright
side so entirely as to lose sight of any other. I
have had rather more time for reading than
ability, but have been looking over Macaulay's
History a little, rather more for the fascination
of his narratives than dependence upon either
his faets or conclusions. Setting aside natural
12*

138 MEMOIR OF [At 35.
preferences, I don't like his attacks on Friends.
I think that — even if he disapproved of their
doctrines, and in some instances of their actions,
Avhich would be very natural — he might do
justice to the purity of their lives, to their self-
denying and heroic adherence to what they be
lieved to be right, and to the high standard
Avhich they raised in that dark time — a standard
to which the Christian world, as it advances in
purity and spirituality, is constantly coming
nearer. I am not at all sectarian, but I do like
to see a man capable of real, honest, earnest ap
preciation of goodness, and of elevation of feeling
and character, Avherever he meets it, and not
going about with a Mephistopheles-sneer on his
countenance, at every thing Avhich is at variance
with policy and conventionalism.
I have been quite interested in a little I have
read of Mitchell's Lectures on Astronomy. The
vastness of the field opened is quite startling. I
like Mitchell's enthusiasm, too — I like any one
to go heart and soul into whatever they under
take. There is something, so ennobling in the
study of all the works of the Creator, and then

At 35.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 139
when we turn from the overwhelming views
of the might, majesty, and power displayed in
them, of which the utmost stretch of our intel-
lect can not conceive — to the feeling that He is
our Father — that He cares even for the sparrows
— that He numbers the very hairs of our heads
— how the soul is bowed in the deepest humilia
tion, while it may be animated by the most per
fect trust.
I had such a sweet dream the other night. I
thought I was at meeting, of which privilege I
have been much deprived, and that an exhorta
tion was given to trust in the Saviour at all
times, to lean upon Him in all our hours of
trial, concluding with the words, " and then shall
we be enabled, in all truth and sincerity, to ac
knowledge, that ' He doeth all things Avell.' " I
can not express to thee the force and sweetness
with which this dwelt upon my mind for a long
time, and is constantly recurring. 1856.
My Dear Friend,
I do not know that a letter from me will be
of any value, still, as a token of affectionate re-

140 MEMOIR OF [At 35.
membrance, it may not be entirely unacceptable,
though I may acknowledge that I feel too weak
and too poor to be worthy of being remembered.
It Avas a real trial to me that I was not able to
see thee before thou left, but I Avas unexpectedly
taken sick and have never been quite well since,
though I have no disease now, and am only suf
fering from great debility. I have, therefore,
been much shut out from intercourse with my
friends, Avhich I feel a good deal. However, I
must not say any thing which seems in the least
to breathe the language of complaint, for truly I
have often been led to feel that my cup runneth
over with blessings, and of late the feeling of
my unworthiness of them has been particularly
strong. In my quiet seclusion not only have
my mercies been brought into view, but also
my mistakes and missteppings, Avhich, though I
believe they were not Avillful, might in a great
measure, no doubt, have been avoided had I kept
more close to my Guide and more low before
Him, and therefore minister deep humiliation.
While feeling a good deal discouraged this
morning, depressed with a consciousness of the

At 35.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 141
little progress I had made and the clinging of
infirmity to every thing, I read in the accounts
of the miracles of our Saviour the tender and
ready mercy with which He helped all who came
to Him — how He encouraged the fearful disciples
in the storm with the words. ' Be of good cheer.
It is I — be not' afraid,' and only required that
they who would be healed should believe in
Him. I thought, in reading the words ' accord
ing to your faith be it unto you,' that it was not
pleasing in His sight that we should sink down
in discouragement, but, rather, casting ourselves
on His mercy and trusting in it, press onward in
our course, believing that He is still able and
willing to succor them that are tempted. I hope
all is Avell with thee, my dear friend, that thy
health is good, and that thou art favored to dwell
in the quiet habitation. It would be a great sat
isfaction to us if we could hear from thee directly
and knoAV hoAV it is with thee. Still, all the dis
pensations of Divine Providence Ave know are in
unerring wisdom and unfailing love, and we may
safely trust ourselves and our friends to that.
Wilt thou remember me Avhen it is well with

142 MEMOIR OF [At. 35.
thee, with desires that I may be thoroughly
cleansed and purified, that self may be of no
reputation, and that instead of going on my way
in so feeble and halting a manner, I may be
made strong to labor — to do or to suffer accord
ing to the will of our blessed Master?
Very affectionately thy friend.
To a friend on the death of her father :
3 mo., 12th, 1856.
I am unable to come to you, having been in
very feeble health for some time past, and now
being completely disqualified for exertion ; but
I have felt so much at hearing of the sorrows
which have been permitted to come upon you,
that I cannot refrain from expressing my ear
nest and tender sympathy, and my sincere de
sire that He Avho doth not willingly afflict His
children, may prove Himself to be in truth the
Father of mercies and the God of all consola
tion. It is an abiding comfort which the Chris
tian possesses, to be able in the deepest affliction
to lean on the breast of the Beloved — to hear
His voice in the storm saying, ' It is I — be not
afraid.' It seems to me that I can in some meas-

At. 35.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 143
ure feel how nature shrinks from the breaking
of these tenderest of ties, and how keenly it will
suffer ; but it is a continual comfort to know that
He whose tender mercies are over all His works
sees every pang that His children are called upon
to endure, that not one escapes His notice and
His pity.
May your reliance be on Him alone. May
He be with you in the furnace, strengthening,
comforting, and encouraging you, and finally en
abling you to make the acknowledgment that
' He hath done all things well.'
I have never met with thy uncle's family,
but if it would not be deemed intrusive I would
like to convey to them a message of sincere sym
pathy in the loss they have sustained. They
have an abiding consolation in the knowledge,
that ' the memory of the just is blessed.'
I am, with the truest and most affectionate
sympathy, thy friend.
In a letter to a dear relative, written a
short time before her death, she says ;
I am in a continual state of wonder at the en-

144 MEMOIR OF [At 35.
joyment and blessings which are heaped upon
me. My eyes often fill with tears, at this feeling
of the marvelous loving-kindness of our merciful
Father. Sometimes, I fear, I do not sufficiently
feel my own poverty, and lowness, and prone-
ness to evil, but this vision of the loving and
compassionate Saviour, ready to save to the utter
most, all those who come to God by Him, seems
to shut out every other view.
Her watchful care over her own spirit
still continued, as the following extract
from her diary will show :
2 mo., 26th, 1856. I believe it is not safe for
me to be trusted Avith health and strength, under
some plea or other I am so apt to use them for
my own purposes. Lately I have lost my hold
on the pearl ; in my attempts to promote the
comfort of my family, the quiet of my spirit has
been disturbed. Some of this is doubtless OAving
to physical weakness, but with every temptation,
there is a Avay of escape ; there is never any need
to sin.
Another thing I have suffered loss from — enter-

At 35.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 145
ing into the business of the day, without seeking
to have my spirit quieted and directed. So many
things press upon me, this is sometimes neglected ;
shame to me that it should be so.
Some things I must bear in mind : 1st, Always
to seek this daily retirement, and earnestly search
into my faults. 2d, To talk less, and carefully
to weigh my words, so that they may minister
grace to the hearer. Let me be careful, Avithout
display or pretension, when I do speak, to do
some good, if it is only to manifest kind feeling
toward others. 3d, and this is of great impor
tance, to watch carefully — now I am so weak —
not to over fatigue myself, because then I can not
contribute to the pleasure of others ; and a placid
face and a gentle tone will make my family
more happy than any thing else I can do for
them. Our own will gets sadly into the perform
ance of our duties sometimes. 4th, Almost above
every thing else, to agonize for a loving spirit
toward all.
To a sister: — Baltimore, 2 mo., 1856.
Last First day I went to meeting, a privilege

146 MEMOIR OF [At 35.
I had not before enjoyed in two months. Much
to my astonishment, I felt called upon to suppli
cate for those who felt themselves only to be
penitent sinners, to beseech that we might all be
bound together, so as to know what it is to
dwell in love, being so deeply penetrated with a
sense of our own infirmities, that we might not
dare to look on those of others with any other
feeling than that of compassionate love.
This was the last time she was able to
attend meeting, and thus was her testi
mony borne to the necessity of that " char
ity which thinketh no evil," which she had
so long endeavored to exemplify in her
daily life.
To one of her young friends she sent
the following note : — Baltimore, 3 mo., 1st, 1856.
Do not think me intrusive, dear  , if I ven
ture to tell thee that I have been thinking of
thee for some days past with very tender and
earnest solicitude for thy well-being in every

At 35.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 147
Avay, and, particularly, that by implicit obedience
to the dictates of the Holy Spirit in thy own
heart, thou mayst become altogether Avhat thy
tender Father, thy compassionate and loving
Saviour would have thee to be, even thoroughly
conformed to His precepts — thoroughly submis
sive to His will in all things — thoroughly regen
erated, so that neither the love of the world, nor
of any thing in it, may draw thy mind away from
His love — but that thy affections may truly be
set on things above.
I do fully acknowledge, dear ¦  , that I feel
myself to be weaker than the weakest, and less
than the least. I am humbled in the very dust,
under a consciousness of falling very far short
of the standard to which I desire and strive to
attain ; but I have craved for thee, as for my
own soul, that we may be found very diligent
in waiting daily upon the Lord for light and
strength, and be strictly obedient to what He
shows us to be our duty in the smallest partic
ular, and that, feeling, as we must, our utter in
ability to do any good thing, we may seek most

148 MEMOIR OF [At 35.
earnestly, most diligently, for the help which He
Avill assuredly give.
I can not express the tender love with which
my mind is drawn out in these earnest desires
for that which will secure not only thy eternal
welfare, but promote thy happiness here ; for
truly there can be no enjoyment on earth com
parable to that which is vouchsafed to the obe
dient children of our heavenly Father, who
truly realize, amid all the trials which are insep
arable from this life, that "in His presence is
fullness of joy, and at His right hand there are
pleasures for evermore."
May we seek to experience this, dear  ;
may we be found constantly watching and wait
ing to know His will, and constantly striving to
fulfill i.t, that we may glorify Him here, and
finally be received into His everlasting peace.
And again to another, for whose best in
terests she felt solicitous : — ¦
Baltimore, 3 mo., 16th, 1856.
Thou hast been brought before my mind, I
humbly trust, by the good Remembrancer, with

At 35.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 149
very earnest desires that thou, and I, and all
of us, may know what it is to experience a
growth in the Truth — that we may in no degree
slacken our diligence, but press forward until
we attain that perfect stature in Christ Jesus,
that thorough purification from the spirit of the
world and the love of self which the holy Head
of the Church requires of us, so that Ave may
be heartily willing to become fools for His
sake. In thinking of thee this morning, the injunc
tion of the Apostle was brought to my mind,
and perhaps I may revive it for thy encourage
ment: '¦'Watch ye ; stand fast in the faith: quit
you like men ; be strong."
Very shortly before her decease she
rode into the city, with some effort, to see
her husband's only sister, to whom she was
much attached, and spent the morning
with her ; giving the most detailed direc
tions as to the education of her three
daughters in case she should be taken
from them. Little did she then suppose

150 MEMOIR OF [At 35.
that she to whom she was in some measure
intrusting the care of her beloved offspring
would, within a few weeks, also be called
away in the bloom of life. The following
is the last record in her sister's diary, and
will show the feeling which subsisted be
tween them.
My heart bleeds at the sad record I here make
of my beloved sister's death, which took place on
First day last, the 23d inst., after giving birth to
a son, who survived her but a Icav days. What
else can we say but that " the Lord gave, and
the Lord hath taken away ; blessed be the
name of the Lord?"
She sought the Lord who bought her with His
own blood, and obeyed Him through life, doing
even that from which her timid nature shrank.
Her sweet, angelic countenance, even amidst in
tense suffering, can never be forgotton ; and, oh !
may her example and all her excellent precepts
be an incentive to me to walk in the same p"ath,
and to mind the same things ; and in view of
the uncertainty of my own life, may my thoughts

At. 35.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 151
be so directed, and a preparation so made, that,
come life or death, I may be fitted for the mes
sage, and have no fears, but my mind be kept in
perfect peace because it is stayed on Thee.
The following is the last entry in her
journal : — -
3 mo., 23d, 1856. I have an humble hope that
the day is dawning, that the Sun of Righteous
ness will arise, Avith healing ia His wings.
Oh, to be kept little, and low, and loving, self
kept out of sight, " made of no reputation ;" and
to feel that love, Avhich has at times made hard
things easy, and bitter things sweet, Avhen I have
felt the everlasting Arms underneath.
Is not the injunction now given, "Fear not,
thou Avorm Jacob?" Enable me, I beseech Thee,
dearest Father, to look solely at the blessings
where with Thou hast blessed me so abundantly ;
enable me to trust, that, as Thou carest for the
sparrows, and feedest the ravens, Thou wilt also
care for me ; and, oh ! enable me to bear, in pa
tient and trusting submission, all Thou seest meet
to lay upon me.

152 MEMOIR OF [At. 35.
She was taken more unwell on the
same day, but the suffering was soon re
lieved, and all danger seemed to be over.
On her husband going to her bedside, and
expressing his thankfulness that she was
doing so well, she shook her head, and
told him that within the past hour she had
seen heaven, "and what," she added, with
a sweet smile, "if I tell thee, that I feel as
if nothing can draw me back but thee and
the children ?"
She was very soon taken alarmingly ill,
and continued to grow weaker until she
gently breathed her last, while a solemn
but sweet stillness pervaded the room, as
if those who watched over her were per
mitted to accompany the ransomed spirit
to the entrance of the Haven of Rest.
And now, having followed her through
life, having seen her living desire to be
conformed to ,her Master's will — her fer-
yenpy of spirit, and diligence in perform-

At 35.] ELIZABETH T. KING. 153
ing whatever was required — may we be en
couraged to place our trust in the Lord,
who supported her, and who will supply
all the need of those who trust in Him.
In conclusion, we will adopt her own
words, in speaking of the death of Stephen
Grellet :—
I do sympathize with thee, and with all, in
the great loss which has been sustained, but my
mind has been so full of the unspeakably blessed
and glorious change to our departed friend, that
I have been scarcely able to bear the heavenly
vision. No more change, no more sorrow for
him ! — for ever with the Lord — satisfied on awak
ing in His likeness — no longer beholding Him
through the veil of fleshly infirmity, but " face
to face" — free to mingle with the spirits of the
just made perfect — no longer compelled to bear
with the imperfections even of the good — no
longer wounded with the sins or the sufferings
of others — but at rest on the bosom of the Sa
viour, where God himself shall wipe away all
tears from his eyes. I was thinking of Chris-

154 MEMOIR, ETC. [At. 35.
tian's passage over the river ; but what a con
voy must have awaited the release of this puri
fied spirit; — with what triumphant notes the
golden harps must have welcomed his entrance
into the Eternal City! Now let us seek to
mourn him as he would wish to be lamented,
by looking not at our loss, but at his gain — by
seeking after that earnest dedication of which he
Avas so bright an example, that we may be en
abled, in our measure, to glorify Him who did
such great things for our beloved friend, and is
ready to grant us, also, the good gifts of His
Holy Spirit, as Ave are concerned to seek them
as earnestly, and employ them as faithfully, as
was the case with him.

THE END.

YALE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY

3 9002 08866 2946

1 \ :,'!?'

Siilli; iii;- . ' ¦¦ :

i:lji| r|;: ¦;

. . t.jvi':^:"' ' !i;|j: i

.I,,':"'!;

IjSljIiiJj./ijiljiiiilj  ,, . ¦

'iiii*:.,:1!

lil'''i ' ' 1 1 ' i 1 1 1' ' t llHI)"' ' ''¦.•' . ",:'¦" "!'

, ;|Hl||!l,;i.l'll|iln:'i:!!:l|i' ¦!¦
-'¦•' u:r iiii^,;1?l,!fi!liii:''t'i!lf'i
iiiiiii^^iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiihiiiiiiiiii^