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forvthe founding oj ' a College, in. this Colony'

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SELECTIONS

rrom the

Diary and Correspondence

or

Joseph S. Elkinton
i 830-1905
Printed for private distribution

Philadelphia 19*3

Any correspondence in relation to this book
should be addressed to
WILLIAM T. ELKINTON
121 South Third Street, Philadelphia

Eisz Z %
ni3

Press of
The Leeds & Biddle Co.
Philadelphia

TO
MALINDA ELKINTON
THIS BOOK IS INSCRIBED TO HER
WHO WAS SO LOYALLY AND AF
FECTIONATELY MENTIONED IN ITS
PAGES AS
"MY MALINDA"
NOW, IN THE FULLEST MEASURE OF
LOVE AND APPRECIATION, THIS OF
FERING COMES FROM THOSE WHO
CALL HER
" MOTHER "

FOREWORD
Joseph S. Elkinton left a large amount of valuable
material in his private diary, containing also much de
tailed and personal matter, a part of which was not
copied in his time, hence the papers were not in such
shape as to be easily accessible to any who might wish
to read them.
Both the copied and original manuscripts have been
carefully examined and an attempt made to cull from
the bulk the most important and interesting items. Some
of the selections may not seem particularly valuable, but
were chosen to serve as connecting links in making a
continuous narrative, or to show some personal charac
teristic of the man, or to give an insight to his varied
experiences. This service has been undertaken in accord
ance with an expressed willingness, on his part, that
others might profit by his experiences, and also as an
offering to his memory. M. C. L. B.

INTRODUCTION
In reviewing the life of Joseph S. Elkinton, several
characteristics come vividly to mind. A rare pastoral
gift, coupled with universal sympathy for the poor and
needy, stands out pre-eminently. The Scripture text,
which he most frequently quoted, was "True religion and
undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the
fatherless and the widows in their affliction, and to keep
himself unspotted from the world." The appropriateness
of this quotation will appear in the pages to which this is
an introduction.
His sense of humor and ability to adapt himself to all
classes of men gave him many opportunities for social
intercourse. We remember how highly he was esteemed by the men
who were in his employ. No one ever entered the works,
with which he was connected as owner for a half century,
who commanded more sincere respect, unless it were his
brother-in-law, Ephraim Smith.
As he attracted to himself those of "low estate," so
also his personality was felt by men of position and
culture. When he walked the street his distinctively
Friendly dress and grave but kindly face often drew to
him many who were strangers. He stood five feet ten
inches, with broad, slightly stooping shoulders. Upon
vii

viii INTRODUCTION
his white brow he wore a light, broad-brimmed beaver
or brown straw hat in summer, and a black, stiff, silk hat
in winter.
As he sat at the head of the meeting for worship his
appearance was impressive, his prayers particularly
weighty, and his worshipful manner gave a sense of
strength and solidity.
In his ministry his main concern was always to preach
the unsearchable riches of Jesus Christ and to testify to
his deity. Sometimes his thoughts seemed to come faster
than his words, and his words became too rapid for dis
tinct enunciation, but they were accompanied by a sol
emnizing power not easily described.
His ability to time the conclusion of a meeting, while
the life was still to be felt, was unusual ; some of his best
utterances have been made when announcing the end of
a meeting for worship, preparatory to entering upon the
business of a second meeting.
His native powers of mind were quite above the aver
age. As a mathematical student he stood at the head of
his class. His attitude toward education in general was
liberal. Few, in his circle of Friends, could meet with people of
other denominations and convey more truly appreciation
of what they recognized to be good in all.
His experience at Westtown Boarding School was
rather unfortunate; then scarcely in his teens, he was
too young to contend with the bad example of older boys

INTRODUCTION ix
and the strong natural impulses of his own heart, un
assisted by close parental oversight. He referred to this
situation later in life, as the one error in his father's
judgment, for which he had suffered many regrets,
although he appreciated the motive which prompted his
parents to place him there so young. By returning to
Westtown at fifteen, to demonstrate a better purpose in
life, he gave evidence of a radical change. The education
and life-long associations he enjoyed with Friends,
together with his own strong convictions determined the
sphere of his chief interest and activities, as also his
spiritual point of view.
Possessed of a vigorous constitution and an equally
strong will he performed an enormous amount of labor,
physical, mental and spiritual, during sixty years of active
life. It has been remarked, by more than one, that he
would have made an ideal military leader, or an Arch
bishop, had he not enlisted under another banner.
As he grew to manhood, the responsibilities of a family,
a growing business and the call he felt to speak in the
name of his Lord, gave him many opportunities to
develop his character and to test his faith.
The group of Friends, with whom his father was most
intimate, were of the conservative type and his sympa
thies were ever closely allied with these. Thus in the
sixties, when the tension was greatest in Philadelphia
Yearly Meeting, we find him standing firmly for con
servatism. But that heart-sympathy, which infinitely

x INTRODUCTION
transcends all the opinions and preferences of the mind,
enabled him to associate graciously with Friends and
others, of every type. And thus he anticipated "the
better day" and world-wide movement toward unity,
which so happily characterizes the new century.
His interest in the Indians was very natural and strong,
as he was born at Tunesassa, N. Y., adjoining the Alle
gheny Reservation, where his father had devoted fifteen
years of his life to the establishment of a school for the
children of the Seneca Nation. His repeated visits to
these and other Indian tribes is recorded, at some length,
in the memoirs which he has left.
The love he felt for the red man and the black man
brought him into contact with the leaders of both races.
The colored bishops were always glad to have him in their
councils. He visited the victims of a terrible storm on
the Sea Islands of South Carolina, to render what assist
ance he could to the colored survivors. But humanity
appealed to him whenever in need, as his arduous labors
in behalf of the Doukhobors abundantly illustrate.
Four times he visited these Russian peasants in their
Canadian settlements, after he was seventy years of age.
To go from village to village and from house to house,
traveling hundreds of miles over the open prairie in order
to comfort those to whom he could not speak in their
native language, extending sympathy and encouragement
as well as distributing food and clothing, is very typical of
his lifework. The Canadian officials valued his services

INTRODUCTION xi
enough to send for him more than once, when they could
not manage these difficult immigrants.
Joseph S. Elkinton was a man of undaunted courage
and great perseverance, with clear convictions. An in
stance of this appears during his visit with Joseph Walton
to the St. Regis Indians living on the Islands of the St.
Lawrence River. They braved the opposition of the
Roman Catholics, as well as the dangerous ice and waters
of the St. Lawrence to hold meetings among these Indians
in their houses. And when the conviction prompted them
to leave the field of their labors, at once they acted no
less resolutely — crossing the fresh ice on foot — a very
perilous undertaking. Their guide, a fine Indian chief
and Methodist minister of middle life, was poisoned
the same day, upon returning home, the act, as far as
could be traced, of religious jealousy.
His visit to the anthracite coal miners in Pennsylvania,
both in their homes and in the mines, shortly before his
death, indicates his attitude toward the toilers. He be
lieved it far better to show to them sympathy than to
reduce their wages or deal inconsiderately with them.
He was not a Socialist, yet the human instinct brought
him always into feeling for those who did the work of
the world.
The perspective which time gives is invaluable in form
ing a just estimate of any life. Some features of our
beloved father's character always confirm the view that
whatever weaknesses and mistakes in judgment may beset

xii INTRODUCTION
a man, if his chief desire is for the growth of the im
mortal part, that desire will be blessed both to himself
and to his children. This has been abundantly realized,
as we recall how, above every physical and social enjoy
ment, he was concerned for our spiritual welfare. We
accompanied him on some of his religious and other
visits and could feel the earnest solicitude of his fatherly
spirit. His faith in divine guidance and preservation will
ever remain to be his distinguishing trait.
He was marvelously preserved on many occasions from
physical injury, if not death, and his gratitude for innu
merable mercies, both inward and outward, found ex
pression to the very end of his days.
He laid great emphasis upon spiritual "eye-sight," and
would frequently retire to get inward illumination when
ever he was about to perform any religious service.
The noble stand he took in defence of our Christian
testimony for peace at the time of the Civil War put
him in the forefront of the greatest movement of modern
times, and frequently one would detect in his mental and
spiritual attitude that which linked him closely with the
universal progress of mankind.
The principles and testimonies of the Society of
Friends were very precious to him and he wished to
recommend them to all men.
He held several series of appointed meetings, in com
pany with Jonathan E. Rhoads and Zebedee Haines, with

INTRODUCTION xiii
whom he had the closest fellowship. These covered a
large section of New Jersey and Delaware, Western
Canada and Nova Scotia. The New England States,
New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Iowa were also
visited under religious concern. It is a part of the history
of the case, and perhaps fair to J. S. E., to state that in
all his travels on religious service he bore his own ex
penses. In reading over the records of these extended labors it
was thought best to present them as nearly as possible in
their original form, as they express his unique personality
better than any revision or interpretation could. They
contain a considerable range of experience, depicted in
language peculiarly his own, and the extracts are pre
sented in nearly their chronological order.
This volume is the tribute of appreciation which his
children would pay to the work which he did in his day,
believing a man should be judged not so much by his
failures as by his motives and successes, or, in the words
of Marcus Aurelius, "The true worth of a man is to be
measured by the objects he pursues." He was wont to
refer to a memorandum of John Woolman, made shortly
before he sailed on his last voyage, that He who had so
mercifully visited him in his youth, sustained and guided
him through his manhood, in the midst of many tempta
tions and sore trials, graciously delivering him from
grievous entanglements, was still his strength and merci
ful Saviour.

xiv INTRODUCTION
Thus having served his generation, according to his
ability, he was gathered into that rest which ever remain-
eth for those who have sincerely sought to fulfill the
Divine will.
He recalls Whittier's description of "The Quaker of
the Olden Time:"
"With that deep insight which detects
All great things in the small,
And knows how each man's life affects
The spiritual life of all,
He walked by faith and not by sight,
By love and not by law;
The presence of the wrong or right
He rather felt than saw."

Moylan, Pa.
Fourth month, 1913.

J. E.

CONTENTS
Chapter Page
I. Boyhood and Youth . . . . I
II. Early Manhood ... .16
III. Beginning of Ministerial Services . . 59
IV. Special Providences ... 109
V. European Trip . . . . .128
VI. Visit to Seneca Indians . . .156
VII. Religious Visits in Pennsylvania and New York i 79
VIII. Various Visits to Indians and Elsewhere . 199
IX. Visit to Mennonite Community, Etc. . . 235
X. Gospel Labors Among White and Colored People 259
XL Relief Work on Sea Islands . . . 293
XII. Religious Services in Philadelphia and Vicinity 327
XIII. Doukhobor Migration . . . -383
XIV. Service Among the Doukhobors, Continued . 421
XV. Visit to Indians in New York, New England
and Nova Scotia ..... 446
XVI. Visit to Miners in Pennsylvania . . . 474
XVII. Closing Months, Death and Burial . . 488

JOSEPH S. ELKINTON
CHAPTER I.
Boyhood and Youth.
I was born at Tunesassa, N. Y., on the 27th of Fourth
month, 1830; oldest child of Joseph and Mary (Nutt)
Elkinton. My father, after a period of about fifteen
years among the Indians, felt excused from further serv
ice, and returned to Philadelphia with his family when
I was less than one year old.
When very young in life I was made sensible of the
influence of the Holy Spirit. I can remember one eve
ning when, probably not over five or six years of age,
having been brought to tears and under great concern
because of a sense that all was not right between me and
my Heavenly Father, although no special sin was par
ticularly before me, but there was a conviction that my
heart was not good. This came upon me when I was
alone and I wept much. In my distress I disclosed my
feelings to my father, who entered into sympathy with me
and I believe he secretly rejoiced that I was thus brought
under religious exercise on my own account. He gave
suitable counsel, desiring I should give place to such feel
ings and there was great comfort in what he said,
encouraging me to hope in the mercy of Him who forgave
those who repented and were concerned to mind the Good
Spirit. 1

2 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1833
Whilst, however, this precious visitation had its influ
ence, yet I paid too little heed to it and fell into many
errors, bringing cause for condemnation; the example
of other children, who too much disregarded the reproofs
of instruction, had the effect to draw more or less into
like practices with them, yet at seasons when reasoned
and plead with, by my religious parents and friends, I
would be brought into tenderness of feeling. Amidst all
that befell I cannot say I was wholly left to myself, and
there was a love in my heart for good people. I was
sent to school very young — at the age of three years — and
I have no remembrance where it was, but the second
school I attended was that taught by Esther A. Ellis, a
Friend, who in early life joined the Society by convince
ment and became a valuable member, occupying the
stations of Overseer and Elder later in life. She taught
the Corporation School for about forty years, on Pine
street below Second, adjoining the old Pine Street Meet
ing House. After being awhile at that school and before
I was six years old, I was sent to what was called the
Infant School, which was a primary department (if I
understand the matter rightly) of Friends' Select School,
or at least it was conducted in the same building as the
Girls' Select School on St. James street, between Sixth
and Seventh streets, above Market. This Infant Depart
ment was taught at that time by Sarah Thompson, who
afterward married Smith Upton, of New York State. She
had an excellent record as a teacher, and I was told she

Age 5 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 3
undertook the charge of the infant class under a sense
of religious duty, and whatever may be questioned of the
policy of sending children to school so young as some
of these children were, there can be no doubt that the
influence she exerted over their tender minds was greatly
blessed. My cousin, Mary Woodward (afterward
Wood), who had come to make her home with us at
the age of sixteen, accompanied me to school, she
attending the Select School for Girls. Although my
continuance there could not have been very long, yet
my impressions of it are very pleasant, and the remem
brance of the pains taken for our improvement have
continued with me. The distance to this school being
considered too far from my father's residence (about
one and a half miles), I was returned to the school under
the charge of Esther A. Ellis, on Pine street, for a time.
In the early part of 1837 (when seven years of age) I
went to the primary department of Friends' Select School
for Boys, then located in rooms in the Orange Street
Meeting House, and taught by Samuel Allen, and where
I continued to go for two years. During part of the time
I attended this school I had the privilege of taking my
dinners at Stephen Morris', who then lived at the corner
of Eighth and Spruce streets, and whose wife, Rachel
Morris, was very kind and exerted a religious influence
over me. I remember her reading some little books, one
at a time, as I would be seated at her side at noon time,
and after perhaps a dozen had been thus read she pre-

4 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1838
sented them to me, which I highly prized as a gift from
a dear friend. She did not live long after, and my
impressions of the feeling when taken to her funeral by
my father are still vivid.
Notwithstanding I was blessed with godly parents and
religious friends, I fell into divers errors and entangle
ments, making work for repentance and causing grief to
my parents. The influence of the boys on the street,
with whom I mingled on my way to and from school,
and of some of the men in my father's employ, was not
very beneficial, but I believe my dear father and mother
did the best they could under the circumstances in which
they were placed, to preserve their children from evil
associations. Children are in the world and are to be
brought up in the world, but the more care that is taken
to preserve their morals the less bitterness will be felt
on the part of the children, and such care, coupled with
intercession, is likely to be blessed.
When my brother Thomas was a little more than a
year old he met with a serious accident ; — a maid who had
him in charge let him fall, his back striking the side board
of the trundle bed, and she, falling on top of him, caused
him great suffering. The full extent of the injury was
not known until some time after, when it was discovered
that his spine had been dislocated. For years he was a
cripple and a patient sufferer, and there was great solici
tude on his account. At twelve years of age he was still
very much deformed, but a physician was consulted about

Age 9 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 5
this time who was remarkably successful in his treatment,
and my dear brother's back was straightened and he
become a very useful man.
At nine years of age I went to Westtown, my father
taking me in a two-wheeled vehicle, called in those days
a chair, afterwards designated as a gig. I was very
young to leave home, but as father had some building in
progress, it was thought I was in danger of getting hurt
among the men and building operations, for on one
occasion I was struck by the crank of a windless as it
was lowering some material in the well. And another
reason was the intimacy existing between the superin
tendents, Nathan Sharpless and his wife, and my parents,
which I have no doubt made it easier to place me under
their charge, with the hope they would look after me
and make frequent reports. I also had an aunt in the
employ of the institution. From an intellectual point of
view I consider the school was a great advantage to me;
still, proneness of the heart to evil led me into associa
tions that were unprofitable and into practices that gave
me trouble, yet I can well remember seasons of tender
ness, and on penning these things long after they trans
pired my spirit is humbled and tendered under a sense
of the compassion of my Heavenly Father in bringing me
from time to time under a right conviction. Upon one
occasion, when not considered well enough to attend
meeting, and knowing that Elizabeth Evans was present,
I managed to get a seat on the stairway and hear her

6 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1840
communications, which brought me to contritition of
spirit. It always pleased me when any of the Committee
visited the school or other Friends acquainted with my
father's family would give me a kind salutation. There
is great service in older Friends who have seen life's
battles, taking the children by the hand as they find
opportunity and using their leisure to converse with
them. At the close of the term, during which I had been
particularly unsatisfactory in deportment, my father came
after me and on the way home inquired how it had been
with me, and learning that all had not been well, he was
sorely grieved, both of us shedding some tears; but he
was patient and loving, and said he took some consolation
in the fact that I was penitent. His attitude had a very
softening effect upon my mind and also on subsequent
occasions when he pleaded and reasoned with me. But the
force of temptation was great, although I did try to do
better during the winter of 1840 and 1841, yet I had
divers difficulties. Then it was decided, through a wise
conclusion of my parents, that I was to be educated
nearer home. I will not omit to state, however, that
impressions made upon my mind in some of the meetings
and evening collections at Westtown were not wholly
dispelled. Sarah Emlen was occasionally engaged in the
ministry, and her husband, James Emlen, was a righteous
man and was one of our teachers. His example and
purity of conversation were a blessing to the institution.
Joseph Walton was one who showed me marked kindness,

Age 11 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 7
and I could unfold to him more of my troubles and
temptations than to any other teacher. A friendship
ripened with him that has been greatly blessed to me
through life; he has ever proved himself true, faithful
and very helpful. Many others also of my fellow-school
mates have made useful members of community and of
our religious Society, and my intercourse with them has
been of a very pleasant character.*
Among those who frequented my father's house in my
boyhood were the following : Robert Scotton, with whom
my father was associated at Tunesassa, and who after
ward remained a most intimate and lifelong friend of the
family. He took especial interest in my welfare, as father
had given me the middle name of Scotton. Robert Scot-
ton was a deeply experienced minister; he frequently
came to the city from his residence in Frankford and
stayed several days at my father's, and during the latter
part of his life spent much of his time with us. William
Hilles was another very much beloved friend of my

*When about fifteen years of age, J. S. E. became so uneasy
with his record while at Westtown that he expressed a desire
to return for a term to redeem his reputation by pursuing his
studies and conducting himself in a manner more satisfactory
to his friends and his own conscience. This desire was granted
and the result was a great comfort to him in after years.
In spite of all vicissitudes he evidently, during those early
years, made rapid progress in his studies, especially mathematics,
for at the age of eleven he had mastered the first five books of
geometry, and a most wonderful memory was developed, useful
later in business, when he could carry many numbers of weight
and tare correctly in his mind without aid of memoranda.

8 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1848
father. Ebenezer Worth, of whom I believe it may be
justly said, "he was a man of God," also favored us with
his company whenever in the city. Enos and Hannah
Sharpless were among the intimate friends of my parents,
and their residence near Chester was a place of occasional
resort for us. My brother Thomas married their daugh
ter Rebecca in 1863. Mary Kite was one whose sympathy
and friendship were highly prized. Moses Bailey and
his son Richard homed with us at Yearly Meeting time,
as also did Jabez Thompson and his two sisters. Samuel
and Ann Cope, the one an able minister of the Gospel
and defender of the Faith, the other a faithful elder,
were frequent guests and both well beloved. Many other
Friends were hospitably entertained, for my father's
house was always open to guests, whether personal
friends or strangers from afar.
First month p, 1848. This evening whilst we were all
collected in the sitting room father spoke to us, com
mencing with : "I can truly say I do earnestly desire the
prosperity of Zion and the enlargement of her borders,
and the most likely way for this to be effected is for the
children to bend their necks to the yoke" ; and he could
say with the apostle he had no greater joy than to see
the children walking in the Truth. He said much more,
encouraging us to faithfulness.
Eleventh month 19. Meetings are to be held in the
Arch Street Meeting House on First-day evenings during
the winter of 1848 and 1849.

Age 19 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 9
First month 8, 1849. My mother was burned very
badly on the breast, neck and sides of her face. In the
evening she went with a lighted candle into the pantry
to get some provisions for a poor woman, and her neck
handkerchief took fire from the candle. I had come in
and fallen asleep in the chair in the sitting room, but
was aroused by her cries, and the first impression I had
of the matter was the sight of her coming in through
the doorway in a blaze about the head. Father and I
immediately tore off the remainder of the handkerchief,
cape and head-dress. We obtained medical assistance
as soon as possible, but her sufferings were very great.
Dr. Charles Evans thought she made a very narrow
escape with her life. She was confined to her chamber
for weeks, during which time she was visited by many
of her friends, who manifested much sympathy and
interest. Ninth month 8. Last Fifth-day I had through mercy
a truly tendering time, in which I did earnestly crave
that I might be preserved in the Truth and enabled to
fill that place which is assigned me.
This morning, in meeting, Elizabeth Evans arose with
the words: "Let the wicked forsake his way and the
unrighteous man his thought, and let him return unto
the Lord and He will have mercy upon him, and to our
God and He will abundantly pardon." She enlarged
upon this and spoke very encouragingly to some tried
and struggling ones then present. I can remember the

10 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1849
feeling much better than the words, but she also said
that if one then present were faithful he would be
brought into dignity and honor and clothed with a holy
magnanimity of soul and not to care for what others
might say of him. Between meetings I had another
favored season. Oh, that these precious opportunities
may not be as the morning dew which passeth away.
Tenth month 24. Attended Monthly Meeting. In the
first meeting Elizabeth Evans was engaged in one of the
most extraordinary communications I ever remember
hearing, being adapted to the children of worthy parents
and grandparents. She said there were some who had
been visited in an extraordinary manner and who had
been unfaithful, but if these would yet be faithful, our
Heavenly Father would make them able to fill that place
he designed for them, and even make them to be as
ornaments in his church. She also gave warning, saying
if the children of those who had borne the burden and
heat of the day did not come forward and support the
principles which their predecessors upheld, that others
would be called in from the highways and hedges, for a
succession of laborers must be raised up. A very precious
feeling covered me during the communication which
remained with me throughout the meeting for business,
which I thought was a token that I was still an object
of the tender mercy and regard of our Heavenly Father,
for which I trust I felt thankful. In the second meeting
the answer to the first query was read in the usual

Age 19 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 11
manner, except it said "Friends were clear of sleeping."
One Friend said he was glad the query could be thus
answered and hoped it would continue so. But I knew
it was not correct, for I had been overcome two or three
times, so I felt it a duty to say so, especially after Eliza
beth Evans' sermon in the meeting, and, although it was
exceedingly mortifying to expose myself, I rose and said :
"The answer to the first query regarding sleeping is not
quite correct." Isaac Lloyd made some remarks, all of
which I did not hear, but I understood one expression he
made to the import that he was glad the young man
had acknowledged his weakness.
Eleventh month 15. This morning a runaway slave
came to our house. He said he was from the eastern
shore of Maryland. He was provided by my mother with
a suit of clothes and a little money.
Twelfth month 15. My dear brother Asa appears to
have been losing strength of late, and his sufferings are
very great.
Last Third-day afternoon I had a marvellous escape
from being crushed by the wheel of a cart, and I believe
it was by an interposition of our Heavenly Father I
escaped being killed. For this unmerited mercy I desire
to offer a tribute of thanksgiving and hope to keep more
in view the awful importance of being prepared to meet
death, for who knoweth what a day may bring forth.
First month 11, 1850. Last night I was brought re-
newedly under a sense of the awfulness of the work of

12 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1850
the ministry, to which I have believed for more than
three years I should be called if I continued faithful to
my Divine Lord and Master. May He, who alone can
qualify for every good work and service, continue his
preserving arm around me, and I crave that I may not
run before I am sent, and before I put forth my hand
to this work I wish to feel, woe to me if I preach not
the Gospel. The first time I was made to believe without
a shadow of doubt concerning the matter was in Eighth
month, 1846, when I was brought under a sense of my
lost and undone condition. My sins were set in order
before me, and such was the agony of mind I cried for
forgiveness unto my offended yet merciful Lord God, and
blessed forever be His great and glorious name ; He sent
forth of his redeeming love and mercy and spake peace
to my troubled and guilty soul. It was then shown me
with clearness that if I were faithful I should in days
to come be made to testify what great things the Lord
had done for my soul. I called my dear father into the
room and expressed myself freely to him. He extended
words of encouragement and next morning told me that
he had no doubt of my being called to the work of the
ministry if I continued faithful.
Fourth month ii. Last evening brother Asa told me
that he had thought the severe pain he had of late
endured in hip and back was caused by abscesses, but
he now concluded it was from water collecting there, as
his feet had begun to swell. He appeared in a very quiet,

Age 20 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 13
cheerful state of mind (natural to him), and queried of
father what the doctor had said to him during his last
visit, and upon being told that the doctor thought while
there might not be a sudden removal, yet he believed his
days were drawing near a close, he replied that those
views were in accordance with his own, and he hailed
with joy the approaching change.
Tenth month 13. The past few days dear brother Asa
has been very low, not inclining to take much nourish
ment and been troubled with severe throbbing in the
head. Robert Scotton has been with us; his company
and assistance have been particularly acceptable at this
time of affliction and a great satisfaction to brother Asa.
Tenth month 23. Little change in my brother from
the time of my last writing until Fifth-day, when he com
plained of not being able to collect his ideas clearly, and
there seemed to be more difficulty in his power of ex
pression. Eleventh month 6. Brother Asa remains much the
same, very low at times, but ever quiet and cheerful
during intervals of revived strength. Elizabeth Evans
came down this morning and Asa hearing thereof, desired
to see her. Almost immediately on entering the room
she broke forth : "A little longer and a little more suffer
ing and this dear lamb shall be released." When she
reached his bedside she said, "Well, my dear, how is
thee?" Then, answering the salutation for herself, she
said, "Very near thy everlasting rest," to which brother

14 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1850
assented by the motion of his head. She then spoke to
him in a very encouraging manner, saying that his suffer
ings were not for his sake alone, but might be designed
for the benefit of his family, and that it might be a
mystery that we could tell nothing about; that angels
were waiting as at the gates to receive his spirit.
Eleventh month io. The awful time has come for us
to part with our beloved Asa, never more to meet, unless
it be in a glorious eternity. This morning, while we were
dressing, father came for brother Thomas and myself to
come immediately to Asa's room. We hastened down
and found dear Asa looking for us, and when we were
all seated round his bed he looked intently at each and
nodded his head as if he were bidding us farewell, which
I believe was his object. After this he lay about two
hours without taking notice of any of us, then a little
difficulty of breathing for fifteen or twenty minutes, when
it ceased and his purified spirit took flight from its
earthly tabernacle. As our dear father stood over his
lifeless form he broke forth with the words: "Blessed
are the dead who die in the Lord, for they rest from their
labors, and their works do follow them." And as my
heart breathed the language I expressed after father,
"And let praises, everlasting praises, be given unto Him
that hath redeemed him."
Eleventh month 12. This day we followed the remains
of my dear brother to the grave.
First month 1, 1851. This being the first day of the

Age 21 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 15
year, renewed desires have been raised through the day
that the blessing of preservation may be vouchsafed,
enabling me to live through the coming year to the praise
and honor of the great Creator of all things; that when
another has rolled over I may have increased in ex
perience and deepened in a knowledge of best things. On
looking back over the past year, shame and confusion
seem to cover me and weakness seems to be my portion.
Although the Lord's mighty hand hath been round about
me, delivering me in one or two instances from instant
death, and many have been the mercies and favors be
stowed upon me, yet I have been ungrateful and have
not prized the precious privileges as I should have done.
I desire to seek repentance and to experience forgiveness
that I may, as it were, take a fresh start and renew the
covenants that were made in the days of my tenderness,
doubling my diligence to make my calling and election
sure. During the past year I have parted with a dear brother.
Ah, how he was purified through great suffering, and his
ransomed spirit gathered to the company of those who
are forever singing the praises of Him that redeemed
them. May He, who was pleased to gather him from all
iniquity, extend the same mighty power for my preser
vation and for that of my dear sister and brother who,
with me, are left to work out our salvation with fear
and trembling.

CHAPTER II.
Early Manhood.
Fourth month 27. This is an important month in my
life, as I complete to-day my twenty-first year. My mind
has been much exercised through the course of the day,
and I have been in fervent prayer to the Author of my
life that I may be enabled in the future to seek first the
kingdom of heaven and the righteousness thereof, having
no doubt, if this be my primary concern, that all neces
sary temporal things will be added.
Above all other things I desire to be enabled to give
myself unreservedly into the hands of my Heavenly
Father, craving that through the course of my life I
may be dedicated to his work and service, being willing
to spend and be spent for the cause of truth, having no
doubt, as faithfulness is maintained, a place will be
assigned me in the Militant Church. Oh, that the bless
ing of preservation may be extended, that when done with
time I may lay down my head in peace and be prepared
to join the just of all generations in singing everlasting
praises to Him who redeemed them from all iniquity.
Sixth month 8. From a letter to M. Kite: Father
has been liberated to accompany William Evans on his
intended visit to Friends of Indiana and Iowa, which
will take him away from home four or five months. The
16

Age 21 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 17
management and responsibility of the business falls
chiefly on me, yet I have no doubt that while he is away
on a right concern there will be a way provided for us
to get along reputably, and I hope I shall be able to keep
the concern from going behind in any way. — J. S. E.
Eleventh month. Father returned home three weeks
ago with William Evans. They passed through a section
of country where there was much sickness, and at one
place the people declined entertaining them lest they
should convey some infectious disease.
In the year 1852 my father was willing to purchase a
lot at Seventeenth and Hamilton streets, eighty feet
square, and had a building about thirty-two feet square
erected, with iron-cased windows, shutters and doors,
and a boiler outside the building, so that it was considered
fireproof. This was intended for me in which to have
a start in business. I was pleased with the prospect of
having the factory in charge, knowing it was designed
for me for the purpose of carrying on the salting of
hides, rendering of tallow and the manufacturing of
candles. When it was in contemplation, as I walked the
streets, the query would arise in my mind, had I sought
the divine counsel in the matter of the proposed move
ment? Whilst satisfied in my own mind that I had not, I had
a very strong desire to avail myself of the willingness of
my father to start me in business. I did not communicate
my secret feelings, and the building went on, and I

18 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1853
engaged in business in it which proved remunerative.
One morning as I was making my way from my father's
home I was told that my factory was destroyed by fire,
and so I found it, which of course was a disappointment
and loss. My father, however, was willing to rebuild;
but I remembered what had previously passed through
my mind — had I asked for the Divine counsel in the
building of that factory? I felt that I had not, and now
if I did not mind what might be considered the crack
of the whip, the next time I might know the lash of it.
This so impressed me that I told my father that if he
were willing I was willing to give up that factory and
come back home and stay with him in business in South
Second street, and the lot at Seventeenth and Hamilton
streets might be sold. His response was that if that were
my feeling, it might be so, and the lot was sold. The fire
was supposed to have originated from spontaneous com-
busion. In the spring of 1853 I had an affection of the cheek
that was called a malignant pustule by Dr. Charles Evans,
who made a large incision on the inside of my mouth
and called in the assistance of the distinguished surgeon,
Doctor Pancoast. I was laid by for two weeks, taking
liquid food with a cork between my teeth to keep from
working the muscles of my cheek, and was given instruc
tion not to engage in business for some time. As I could
not work, I felt inclined to go West and see the country,
and father presented me with sixty dollars, or thereabout,

Age 23 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 19
for that purpose. I left home the evening after our
Quarterly Meeting in the Fifth month, 1853.
On the train a man indulged in profane language to
such an extent that I was induced to say that "Profane
language was painful to respectful ears and respect
able people would not use it." I was surprised to hear a
voice behind me uniting with my remarks, when either
the profane man or the one at his side was heard to say,
"We must say our prayers now." The one who endorsed
me was James Naylor, and this was the beginning of a
friendship with him that continued until his death.
I spent some time visiting among Friends in Ohio and
returned home benefited by the trip.
Extract from a letter to R. E. Patterson from J. S. E.
dated Fourth month 9, 1854 : Thought I would mention
a circumstance which took place in our factory last
Second-day. A steam boiler, which we use in boiling
grease under high pressure, exploded with a noise like
a cannon, and what was most surprising no one was hurt.
About three minutes before it occurred I was fixing some
thing on top of the boiler when I observed a small leak
in what we call the manhole plate, which is a cast-iron
cover that is screwed firmly over the hole in which the
materials are put before boiling. I immediately shut
off the steam and supposed all was safe. I then went
into the third story, where I had just arrived when the
accident took place. Had it occurred one minute sooner,
in all probability I should have been killed. I remained

20 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1854
in the third story until the heat of the steam, which
quickly filled both second and third stories, became too
oppressive. I then descended by a rope through the open
hatches to the lower floor, where I found all the men
safe. In my descent I passed within twenty-five feet of
the boiler through the hot steam. Had I gone down stairs
I should probably have been scalded by passing through a
shower of boiling grease, several hundred pounds of
which were scattered about. The broken pieces of iron
became lodged and wedged in the hall in a curious
manner, which prevented them from being driven through
the floor and injuring the building. It is supposed the
part that burst was injured by the fire last spring more
than we were aware of.
Altogether I consider it an evidence of the superin
tending and preserving care of Divine Providence, for
which I ought to be very thankful, but I fear' I shall not
be enough so. It forcibly brings to mind the passage
"that the tender mercies of the Lord are over all His
works." This is the fifth instance in the last five years of my
having very narrowly escaped with my life, and I desire
that these warnings of the uncertainty of life may be
improved and tend to my deepening.
On one occasion a man in our employ who held
deistical opinions was so impressed at witnessing my
escape that he impulsively exclaimed: "Surely it was
the power of God that saved you."

Age 24 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 21
The circumstance was as follows: One day a man
drove into our factory yard an unruly colt, which he was
breaking, hitched to a cart. When ready to go the colt
was so restive that the man made several vain attempts
to get into the cart, so I offered to hold him and took
hold of the ring at the bit, but the colt had no notion
of standing still and made his way toward a gate post
about eighty feet away, taking me with him, and I think
ing, "When we get to that post I will hold thee," but
about that time the colt gave me such a send-off as
landed me in the doorway, at a right-angle to the course
we were going, alongside of the deist. I was landed on
my feet unharmed. The man, seeing I was not even hurt
and being so impressed at witnessing the escape, he ex
claimed: "Surely it was the power of God that saved
you." First month 31, 1855. Last night after retiring to bed,
had a favored season. I was enabled to pour myself out
in prayer and supplication to the Father of Mercies that
He would send forth help from his sanctuary to enable
me to overcome all the temptations of the deceiver of
souls that I might serve and follow the Lord in the way
of His leading.
Second month 4. Yesterday afternoon my friend,
Samuel E. Shinn, lost his life in the following manner:
He was skating on the Schuylkill River in company with
a young woman, whom he was pushing before him in an
arm chair on runners, and passing over a place where the

22 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1855
ice was thin, broke through and both were drowned.
Samuel was a noble-hearted young man, nothing mean
lurking in him; a little more than twenty-five years of
age, plain and consistent in his deportment and remark
ably pleasant in his manners. We were playmates
together at school, and have always from our earliest
acquaintance had very friendly feelings towards each
other. He was of no common talent. The circumstances
forcibly reminds me of the language, "Be ye also ready,
for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of Man
cometh." Second month 5. Second-day afternoon attended the
funeral of Samuel E. Shinn. It seemed to me the feeling
on the occasion was that of sadness and to me a season of
humiliation. I remembered the passage: "Two men
shall be in the field, one shall be taken and the other left."
I was led to reflect how that he was thus snatched off as
in a moment, and my life had been preserved in several
instances from a like fate by a high hand and an out
stretched arm, and when the query arose, "What have I
rendered unto the Lord for all His benefits ?" Shame and
confusion is the sense I have of the matter.
Third month. Sister Sarah, having since her return
home had her mind much turned towards the Indians
and believing it to be her duty, expressed her willingness
to the Indian Committee to return and teach at the school
at Tunesassa until it could be further supplied with a
teacher. I think I never saw father as near saying, at

Age 25 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 23
the prospect of meeting any close trial, "I will not submit
to it," and it was not until the whole responsibility was
left with him that he consented to it.
A special meeting of the Indian Committee was held
on third of Third month and her offer was accepted. She
left home on Sixth-day morning the ninth inst. A cir
cumstance took place the evening before her departure,
which has been a great comfort to me. When the family
gathered in the evening a precious feeling overspread the
little company. I was led to say, "We commit thee to
God and the word of his grace which is able to build
thee up and to give thee an inheritance among them that
are sanctified." After which mother added, "I have
prayed for thee, my dear daughter, that thou mightest be
cared for by the Good Shepherd who preserved me in
the service thou art about to engage in." When brother
Thomas bade his sister farewell it was a most affecting
scene; poor boy, he felt as if he had lost his nearest and
dearest friend. They were very devoted to each other.
Fourth month. For some time I have been humbled
under a sense that it would be required of me to appear
in public in the line of the ministry. Oh, the trying bap
tisms and humiliation on this account ! At the last sitting
of our Yearly Meeting I spoke a few words and enjoyed
the feeling of peace during the remainder of the day. I
was told that Robert Scotton and William Hillis, in speak
ing of the appearance, said: "It seemed like a stormy

24 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1855
time for one to set out in the ministry, but it had been
said that good sailors were made in rough seas."
Fourth month p. For some months I have had serious
thoughts of endeavoring to form a connection in mar
riage with Malinda Patterson, and have consulted my
parents on the subject, who, whilst they have no acquaint
ance with her, have no objection to my having a suitable
companion. Malinda Patterson and her grandmother,
Anna Conrow, have come on from Ohio to visit Samuel
and Sarah Walton.
Seventh month. Being in poor health, in company
with Charles Warner, I took a sea trip to Boston on a
sailing vessel, leaving Philadelphia Seventh month, 10,
1855. Our captain, a kind obliging man, quiet and
retired, but free and social when addressed, was firm
and pleasant and agreeable in his manner toward the
crew. The discipline throughout on board was good.
When I arose in the morning of the 12th we were forty
miles from the Capes, with tide against us. We could see
with the glass seventy-four vessels on the bay. On the
13th we had a fair wind from the south, and sailed up
along the Jersey coast. The sea was not rough, yet I
soon became sick and stretched myself full length on the
quarter deck. The captain went below and kindly
brought up a mattress and placed it between two of the
steam boilers, which were lying side by side on the main
deck. This made a comfortable nest, and I stuck to it
most of the day until driven below by a shower. Had a

Age 25 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 25
very uncomfortable night and felt so indifferent that I
would have cared little if the barque and all that was in
it had gone to the bottom. Towards morning was enabled
to get a little sleep, after which the pain in my head
passed off, and have not been affected since with the
swimming sensation that had been of late so troublesome.
To be rid of this was worth the expense of the trip, sea
sickness included. The night of the 16th we spent in
a cove, the captain thinking is imprudent to proceed in
the fog during the night. Nineteen vessels were anchored
there with us. The 17th was the most interesting day's
sailing that we had. We got under way about 4.30 A. M.
It was still foggy, but we had a good wind. We sailed
along Martha's Vineyard at the rate of seven miles an
hour. About 10 A. M. the fog became much more dense
and we could see but a very short distance. The captain
held the lead and was sounding nearly all the time, when
he came to three fathoms (eighteen feet), the vessel
drawing twelve feet, he shouted: "Let go the anchor,"
which order was quickly obeyed. I asked the captain
what was the matter, to which he replied, "I do not
know where I am."
In an hour or so the fog lifted a little and we saw a
steamer anchored near us, and as soon as she raised her
anchor we followed the example and made after her, for
said the captain, "Where she can go, I can." I asked
him if he knew yet where he was. He said, "No, but
I will get away from here and find out." It was very

26 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1855
exciting, for we were in imminent danger of striking
sunken rocks which were in that part of the channel. The
captain took the wheel and showed nothing of fear. We
went back about three miles and then changed our course
to the northeast and soon, falling in with other vessels,
knew we were on the right course. The captain was led
astray by his two compasses varying five degrees, and he
had been guided by the incorrect one, and also by making
more rapid progress during the morning that he sup
posed. If we had gone on a few minutes longer before
we anchored we should no doubt have struck on a shoal
of rocks called the Stone Horse. After getting on the
right course we put on all sail and made good speed. At
3 P. M. we were nearly opposite the lighthouse at
Chatham on the mainland of Massachusetts. Here we
again saw the steamer and had a great race for about
two and a half hours, when she passed out of our sight.
Our little barque was a good sailor, for she drove through
the water within six points of the wind at the rate of
ten and twelve miles an hour. In the evening there was
a beautiful phosphorescence seen at the sides and in the
wake of the boat. Toward midnight the wind died away
and when I arose on the morning of the 18th found that
we had anchored about eleven miles from the city of
Boston, being becalmed. At breakfast we had a fresh
codfish, caught by one of the crew.
The captain hailed a steam tow-boat and soon bar
gained with the captain of it to tow us up to the city.

Age 25 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 27
Boston being built on a hill, the approach to it was a
beautiful sight. While sitting in the bow of the boat
admiring the scenery, I was led to reflect upon what
must have been the feelings of our early Friends when
they entered this bay, when the cruel laws of Massachu
setts declared that any Quaker, after being banished and
returning to the Province, should be put to death.
After our arrival in Boston we spent some time in
walking and sitting on the Common; saw a very large
tree surrounded by a wooden railing. The tree appeared
to be of great age, its limbs were bound together by long
iron rods running from one to another and fastened
round by iron bands. Much pains have been taken to
keep the old tree together. Its age is not known, but
it is said to be the tree on which William Robinson,
William Leddra, Marmaduke Stevenson and Mary Dyer
were hanged. After spending a day or two in sight-see
ing we returned to Philadelphia, making a visit at New
port on the way.
Some months after this trip, seeing the barque Gem
at the wharf I went aboard to speak to the captain. He
asked me if I remembered presenting him with a copy
of Sewel's History? I replied that I remembered read
ing it on the passage to Boston and leaving it on board
telling him he might have it. He said he took it to his
home in Chatham and his wife read it to their neighbors,
they being in the habit of assembling in his home to sew
during the winter evenings.

28 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1855
Seventh month 18. Extract from a letter to Joseph
S. Elkinton from his father, Joseph Elkinton: We had
a visit from Elizabeth Pitfield yesterday; she took tea
with us and told me as she was going away, that she
did not wish me to be too much discouraged about my
son Joseph, intimating that it was her belief the Master
would take care of him.
Mayst thou, my beloved son, be engaged and con
cerned to trust in Him who never said to the wrestling
seed of Jacob, "seek ye my face" in vain. He is a good
Master, worthy to be trusted, served, honored and
obeyed; thousands have been able so to testify. And He
will never leave nor forsake his devoted children unless
they turn away from Him, which thou mayst be pre
served from ever doing, is the fervent prayer of thy
father for thee. It is no new thing for the Lord's chil
dren to be closely tried and proven, but as they hold
fast their integrity He will in His own time, which is
always the best time (and well indeed worth waiting
for) appear with healing in His wings and enable us
to sing songs of rejoicing to His praise and our own
great consolation and comfort.
Ninth month 2. Favored this morning to put up a
feeble petition for my deepening and growth in the
Truth. "Oh, Most Holy and Eternal Father, may it please
Thee to deepen me in the root of immortal life that I
may grow and increase in that knowledge which is life

Age 26 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 29
eternal, even to know Thee, the only true God and Jesus
Christ whom thou has sent and to whom be glory for
ever. Amen."
Ninth month 3, 1856. Joseph S. Elkinton and Malinda
Patterson were united in marriage. (From a letter by
J. S. E. to E. S.) The day of our marriage the Meeting
house was well filled, there being many of the town's
people, besides relatives and friends present. Joseph
Edgerton spoke chiefly to this class, inviting them to
turn their minds inward to the Divine Teacher. He
spoke very clearly, enlarging on the passage: "We have
a more sure word of prophecy, whereunto ye do well
that ye take heed as unto a light that shineth in a dark
place." After the marriage ceremony, and the certifi
cate had been read and signed, he spoke more particu
larly to dear M. and me. We had a pleasant company
of fifty or sixty, who dined with us at the house of
entertainment. Fifth month 3, 1857. After the death of Mary Pat
terson (his sister-in-law), J. S. E. wrote in a letter:
"May our Heavenly Father be pleased to sanctify our
affliction and cause it to draw us nearer unto Him, so
that when our course is run, we may be prepared to join
our beloved sister, who is gone to that happy country
where there is no sorrow or sighing, but all is endless
joy." First month 29, 1861. My mother requested me to
remain at home from our afternoon meeting and spend

30 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1861
a quiet undisturbed time with her. It was a very satis
factory opportunity. She said to me, "My son, thee has
had some hard days, but keep near the Master and He
will help thee ; and when the Master gives thee anything
to do, go do it." She related a circumstance that occurred
after she returned from her first sojourn among the
Indians at Tunesassa. She was at the house of Samuel
Swayne, where Thomas Shillitoe was dining. Mother
entered the room and was introduced as Mary Nutt,
just come from among the Indians. Thomas dropped
his knife and fork, bowed his head and presently said,
"And thou wilt be back there." This surprised mother,
as she thought she was through, but afterward found
that her peace consisted in returning to her work among
the Indians.
Third month 16. Opened my mouth in meeting this
morning with the words, "The Lord's arm is not short
ened that it cannot save, nor His ear grown heavy that
it cannot hear; but for the sighing of the poor and the
crying of the needy, He will arise and preach deliver
ance to the captive and the opening of prisons to them
that are bound, comfort those that mourn, give unto
them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning and
the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness." Should
it be the will of the Great Head of the church that I
should be thus exercised, may He preserve me from
running into words or doing anything in conduct or
conversation that will cast a stain on the cause.

Age 31 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 31
Third month 17. Having heard of Mary Kite being
very low, felt I would like to see her once more, she
having been as a tender mother to me. I spent two or
three hours by her side, and there was such a sweet
feeling of peace prevading the room that if we had the
power we would hardly want to keep her, although the
Church will be stripped of a bright and shining ornament
in her removal. May the Lord raise up more such as
she, to stand for the cause and testimony's sake in their
day and generation. Mary Kite deceased, Third month
22, 1861, aged sixty-nine years.
Eighth month. In the second meeting of our Quarterly
Meeting I said : "It was with me to plead with some who
like myself were in the practice of attending these
Meetings for Discipline, thereby giving evidence that we
are interested in the concerns of Society, but who did
not feel it to be our place to take an active part in the
business that came before the meeting, that we might
endeavor to get under the exercise of the meeting which
would tend not only to our own growth and experience,
but be felt as a help and strength to those on whom the
weight and burden of the Society chiefly rested.
"Some might excuse themselves from this responsi
bility on account of the inconsistencies existing amongst
us; others tried with these things might feel at times as
if their hearts would sink within them and be discour
aged, but I have remembered a remark of an aged
disciple (Robert Scotton), now gathered to his ever-

32 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1861
lasting rest. He said, 'The work is truly great, but we
are called to be working and nothing impossible will be
required.' And when we are gathered in our Meetings
for Worship, let us endeavor to maintain an exercise
for the arising of Life; we may toil long sometimes
without seeming to attain that which our souls long for
as soon as we might desire, but if the struggle is main
tained, there will be a breaking forth of Light and Life
and we be enabled to say, 'An hour in Thy presence is
worth a thousand elsewhere.' "
Twelfth month 20. After one or two others had
spoken in Meeting to-day, I rose and said: "Believing
this was a time of tendering visitation, my desire was
that, as time passed, we might not lose the tender im
pressions now made, but close in with the heavenly
visitations, for none of us know when these offers of
love and mercy are slighted that we shall be favored
with more. And I ardently craved that some of us now
in the strength and vigor of life, might be so wise as
not to suffer the things of time and sense so to engross
our thoughts as to choke the good seed which had been
planted in our hearts, but to seek after heavenly things,
that our cry unto the Father of mercies might be that
He would not cast us off forever nor take his holy
spirit from us; that He would create in us clean hearts,
and renew a right spirit with us." Such breathings I
believed would be acceptable and if we walked humbly
with Him, obedience keeping pace with knowledge, an

Age 31 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 33
assurance would be granted us that when done with time
we should be permitted to follow those who had gone
before into the realms of rest and peace.
In regard to Elizabeth Evans, who deceased Eleventh
month, 14, 1861, J. S. E. writes : "She has on divers
occasions watered my garden and comforted my despond
ing heart. I owe her much. I can turn back in memory
to the days of my early visitations when she was often
instrumental in the Divine hand in pouring in the oil
and wine; and there are many who have set their seals
to having been refreshed by the gospel rain through her.
Her sudden removal has been tendering to many hearts.
When about seventeen years of age I dreamed that she
spoke to my condition in meeting. The next day was
our meeting day, and she was engaged in testimony in
the same strain that had appeared to me the night
before. The last time Elizabeth Evans spoke in our
meeting was two weeks before her death, when she ad
dressed the young men particularly, telling them they
were of understanding hearts and that nothing would
give her greater joy, now in the decline of life, than a
firm belief that there would be raised up in this place a
little army which would stand as testimony-bearers to
the Truth, and hoped there might such be brought forth
who would be faithful to the cause, which she most
ardently loved, and which she had endeavored to advo
cate and uphold, though conscious of her many short
comings, yea, transgressions also, for she was frequently

34 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1862
engaged in prayer for forgiveness. She exhorted us not
to allow the many discouraging things which might be
seen around us to have undue influence upon the mind,
nor the wickedness which abounded in the world, but to
endeavor to keep inward and retired."
First month, 1862. On the first day of this year father
withdrew his name from our firm, leaving brother
Thomas and me to conduct the business with his capital
and business facilities, under the name of Joseph S. and
Thomas Elkinton. May the goodness and mercy that
have been with him through life follow the children, and
we maintain a lively concern, not to do anything that will
bring dishonor upon the Truth.
Third month. Father was over at Haddonfield Quar
terly Meeting and heard related whilst at Joseph Snow-
don's the following anecdote: Thomas Scattergood,
Samuel Bettle, Thomas Stewardson and perhaps one or
two other friends, had been appointed to attend the
Legislature, then held at Lancaster, and by their influ
ence to prevent the passage of a bill, which, it was
thought, was designed to be oppressive to Friends. The
bill was to be brought up on a Second-day morning and
the deputation started the previous Seventh-day after
noon. First-day morning the question was raised
whether they should pursue their journey or attend a
meeting on the way. Thomas Scattergood said : "Friends,
you may do as you please, but I incline to go to meet
ing." They all went to meeting, in which Thomas spoke

Age 32 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 35
to the state of one in high standing who was in a practice
which, if not abandoned, would prove the ruin of the
individual. After meeting, several of the members
gathered together and told Thomas they thought him
mistaken. Thomas thought he had only been faithful
in delivering that which was required of him. They
asked whether there was any Friend's house between
there and Lancaster where they might lodge, and were
told there was one in a rather out-of-the-way place.
There they lodged and found the woman Friend who
lived there, laboring under great depression, having re
solved to take her life, thinking she was lost, whether
she lived or not. The visit of the Friends was timely,
they being instrumental in raising her from her low
state. She had, it appeared, whilst laboring under the
temptation, asked for a sign, that if there was any hope
for her, that Friends might be sent to her. These deten
tions made the Committee anxious about being so late
getting to Lancaster, as it was noon by the time they
had their horse put up and went to the legislative hall.
On entering, one of Thomas Scattergood's neighbors
was speaking on the bill and denouncing the Quakers,
but the sight of T. S. discomfited and unnerved him,
which was observed by the assembly, and the bill dropped
without Friends having anything to say. Some time
after, an individual accosted Thomas Scattergood, asking
him if he remembered the meeting the First-day morning

36 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1862
on his road to Lancaster. T. S. replied he did. "I was
the one thou spoke to," said he.
At our Fourth-day morning Meeting we had a stranger
(Phebe Hathaway) from the West, who commenced her
sermon by drawing a comparison between the present
and early times of our Society, when messengers traveled
so much to and fro on the Lord's errands. It is very
true we are commanded to go and teach all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy
Ghost. But we are also commanded by the same divine
authority to tarry at Jerusalem until we be endowed
with power from on High, and without this power and
unction, nothing can be done which will redound to the
Glory of the Great Name.
Copy of an Enrollment to Military Duty.
Philadelphia, July 25, 1862.
To Joseph S. Elkinton,
Sir : You will please take notice that you have been enrolled as
liable to military duty.
If you claim you are not liable, on account of physical defect,
or bodily infirmity, or that you are exempt from the performance
of military duty by any law of this State or of the United States,
it will be your duty on or before the 14th day of August, 1862, to
deliver to either of the undersigned, at their residence, No. 37
Catharine Street or 757 South Sixth Street, an affidavit stating
such facts on which you claim to be exempt or not liable to such
military duty.
John Welsh,
Chas. Paullin,
Assessors.

Age 32 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 37
Extract from a letter written by J. S. E., Eighth
month. 9, 1862: "I read with interest thy remarks con
cerning the war, but feel little inclination to respond,
but to ponder these things. We all know it is a serious
time, and the temptations held out to young men of talent
and ambition to be very great. It seems to me that if
I have ever known anything of a living exercise it is on
behalf of our young men, members of our Society, that
we may be preserved from bringing dishonor on the
Truth, but being favored with that Spirit which is over
the powers of darkness, we may be enabled to walk
consistently with our profession."
Extracted from a letter to a young man, Eighth month,
1862: "May thou be concerned to look unto Him who
can and will direct the steps of those who with honest
integrity of purpose apply unto Him and in humble dedi
cation are willing to lay aside their own wills, being
subject to the Divine Will.
"Remember that learning or any other attainment that
can be acquired by man must be considered as secondary
unto that living principle, the one thing needful, which
alone can sanctify and without which all else will be of
little avail. It matters not whether it be wealth, honor,
power, learning or whatever else we set our hearts upon,
'Let him that glorieth, glory in this, that he knoweth
Me, saith the Lord.'
"If offers should be made thee that are likely to make
it doubtful about a regular attendance at meetings on

38 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1863
First-days and in the middle of the week, be careful
how thou accepts. Don't be satisfied with an attendance
merely, but strive to be a living worshipper. I write
under a sense of my own short-comings, but I believe
such an exercise will be blessed. Wandering and evil
thoughts may and doubtless will be present, but it is
no sin to be tempted; the sin is in yielding to the temp
tation ; nor is it best to be overmuch discouraged because
we cannot overcome these things as soon as we might
wish. If the struggle is kept up, the seasons of refresh
ings will come. Sometimes after a whole meeting has
been spent in endeavoring to overcome the struggle,
perhaps on the way home, there will be a breaking forth
of light.— J. S. E."
Extract from a letter to a brother and sister, dated
Philadelphia, Fifth month, 10, 1863 : "If we would but
serve the Lord with an undivided heart, how would He
bless us and sanctify us, preparing unto Himself a
peculiar people, zealous of good works. Oh, that we
may stand faithful in our measure to the manifestations
of his grace and good Spirit, that we may be led out
pf all error into all truth and having dominion over sin
and iniquity, experience a growth in grace and an estab
lishment in the ever blessed and unchangeable Truth.
"During the past week, whilst we have had such
accounts of dreadful slaughter and bloodshed, I have
been reflecting how privileged we were in that, by the
Light of Truth, we have been shown that all Christians

Age 33 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 39
should keep out of all strife and contention, and how
much we are spared by acting in consistence with such
a conviction. But for this restraining principle, in all
probability, I should myself have been in the murderous
conflict and perhaps been amongst the silent dead, and
how awful to be ushered into eternity, or be the means
of sending another, whilst all the passions of our fallen
nature were heated almost perhaps to a state of fury."
Sixth month 29. A Friend last evening related the fol
lowing circumstance: A Friend in England was favored
with a gift in the ministry, which some of the members
of his meeting doubted his having. At one time he laid
a concern to go on a little journey, and one of those
who doubted his gift was appointed to go with him. The
first meeting they attended the minister's sermon con
sisted in saying, "There is a thief in the house," and at
the second meeting he said the same thing, at which his
companions, being much outdone, left him. At the third
meeting the same thing again occurred, after which a
man came to him and said, as he had now rebuked him
three times for robbery, he would acknowledge that he
was a robber, but had now come to the resolution to
change his course.
Seventh month 15. Thomas Lippincott, a first cousin
of my father, aged about seventy-three, who resided at
Woodstown, New Jersey, lodged at father's last night
and was quite interesting in conversation. He told us
he was of the sixth generation of Lippincotts in this

40 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1863
country. His father's name was William, who was
brother of my grandmother Elkinton, her maiden name
being Letitia Lippincott. She was of a godly life and
died in unity with her Friends when about thirty-nine
years of age. Her father's name was Caleb Lippincott,
who was the son of Jacob, the son of Restored, who was
the son of Richard Lippincott, who came to New Eng
land with the Puritans, who excommunicated him be
cause of his becoming dissatisfied with the use of bread
and wine, as was the practice with that people. He
returned to England and about the time of his arrival
a son was born to him, whom he named Restored, in
commemoration of his being restored to the land of his
fathers. Richard Lippincott about this time became convinced
of the Truth as professed by the people called Quakers
and suffered on account of his religious principles. His
name appears in Sewel's History. He afterwards re
turned to America and settled on a large tract of land
in New Jersey. Caleb Lippincott, my great-grandfather,
was a first cousin to John Woolman. Thomas Lippin
cott also related last evening that James Daniel, a
minister of Salem Quarterly Meeting, being out on a
religious visit, was at a meeting where he spoke very
closely to an individual tinctured with a spirit of unbe
lief; said he could lay his hand on the man and said
moreover that he had a book on infidelity in his pocket.
It afterwards proved that there was an individual present

Age 33 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 41
toward whom Friends had extended much labor, and who
had at that very time one of T. Paine's works in his
pocket. Last week drafting for the army took place in two of
the Congressional districts of this city. About 2000 per
sons were drafted, some eight or ten members of our
Society. May these be willing to stand, to suffer for the
Truth and do their part for the support of our noble
testimony against all wars and fightings. It is stated that
six Friends who were forced from their homes in the
South by the Rebels and taken by the Rebel Army under
Lee into Pennsylvania, have been brought to this city
and with prisoners taken at the battle of Gettysburg,
sent to Fort Delaware. Friends are endeavoring to
obtain further information on the matter, and a special
meeting of the Meeting for Sufferings is to be held this
week. Father and Joseph Scattergood went yesterday
to see the Provost Marshal to ask what would be the
respectful course towards the government for Friends
to pursue when drafted. The Provost Marshal thought
if Friends would not fight they might pay the $300,
but father told him they could not do that. He seemed
to be at a loss how to answer. The officer said, "I am
opposed to war myself, but if a man were to go into
your house and cut your throat, would you resist him?
Be sure you would." Father replied: "Sometime since,
the house of a wealthy Friend was entered in the night
and the robber aroused the Friend and told him if he

42 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1863
did not get up and show him where his money was, he
would kill him. The Friend sat up and after a little
thought said, T shall do no such thing; I will not be
accessory to thy wickedness, and if it is permitted for
thee to take my life, I shall die happy.' The robber
concluded he would not kill such a man and left him."
The Provost Marshal remarked, "He was a very bold
man," and Joseph Scattergood replied, "We have many
such." The interview resulted in nothing definite, the
officer stating he had no authority for exempting any
on conscientious grounds.
Seventh month. A special meeting of the Meeting
for Sufferings has been held and a very affecting state
ment of the suffering of Friends from North Carolina
was made. William B. Hockett, nephew of Nathan
Hockett, was forced into the Rebel Army some ten
weeks before the battle of Gettysburg; and, refusing to
bear arms, a musket was strapped on his back; refusing
to march, he was forced along at the point of the bayonet.
On one occasion he sat down on the ground when the
enraged captain ordered one of the soldiers to shoot,
which he refused to do, saying he would rather lose his
own life than shoot such a man. The captain then
turned him over to the colonel, who attempted to ride
him down. The horse's foot went between his arm and
side, scraping him a little, but not seriously injuring him.
He was then tied to a wagon and dragged along.
Thomas Evans, Samuel Hillis and Charles Evans were

Age 33 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 43
appointed to go Washington, where they prevailed upon
the Secretary of War to grant an order for the release
of the Friends in Fort Delaware.
A large committee of the Meeting for Sufferings was
appointed to assist or advise those who were drafted.
Seventh month 27. Drafting has been going on in
the different wards of the city, and on the 27th of Seventh
month (to-day) it was announced, by the list published
in the papers, that I was among the number. This has
brought me under serious feelings with a fervent desire
that I may be enabled so to act as to bring no reproach
upon the blessed cause of Truth.
Seventh month 30. I present the following statement
Philadelphia, Seventh month 29, 1863.
To the Provost Marshal or other proper officer:
Seeing my name included in a list published as having been
drafted in the Third Ward of the First Congressional District,
for service in the army of the United States, and knowing no
other person of the same name in this ward, I respectfully rep
resent to the Board of Enrollment or other proper officers, that I
feel conscientiously restrained from bearing arms or being other
wise concerned in war, believing that all wars and fightings are
forbidden by the spirit and precepts of the Christian religion.
This statement is submitted to show that my failure to comply
with the requisition of the government in this matter does not
proceed from any disloyalty, but because I am a Christian and
therefore can not fight, procure a substitute, or pay the $300
provided by law, or any other sum as a commutation for mili
tary service, and respectfully ask that it shall not be demanded
of me. Joseph S. Elkinton,
785 South Second Street.

44 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1863
Eighth month 6. Received this afternoon the follow
ing notice : Form 39.
Provost Marshal's Office,
First District, State of Penna. August 5, 1863.
To Joseph E. Elkinton, 785 South Second Street.
Sir : You are hereby notified that you were on the 27th day of
July, 1863, legally drafted in the service of the U. S. for the
period of three years in accordance with the provisions of the
Act of Congress for enrolling and calling out the national forces
and for other purposes, approved March 3rd, 1863. You will ac
cordingly report on or before the Wth day of August at the place
of rendezvous in 245 South Third Street, or be deemed a deserter
and be subject to the penalty prescribed therefor, by the rules
and articles of war.
Transportation will be furnished you on presenting this notifi
cation at on the or at the station nearest your
place of residence. Wm. E. Lehman, Captain,
Provost Marshal, First District, Penna.
I wrote in reply to the above:
Philadelphia, Eighth month 12, 1863.
Wm. E. Lehman, Cap.,
Provost Marshal, First District, Penna.
Respected Friend : The notice received by me to rendezvous
for military service expiring on the 14th inst., I write these lines
explaining that my not appearing arises from my conscientious
convictions expressed in my statement placed in thy hands on the
30th ult., and that I am not an absconder in. any way, but propose
remaining about my usual place of business, or if temporarily
absent for any cause, my whereabouts will be known and com
municated at any time by my family. Respectfully, Joseph S. Elkinton.

Age 33 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 45
Philadelphia, Ninth month, 3.
Dear Friend.
Alfred Cope: Thy feeling communication of last week was
duly received. It is truly grateful to have such an evidence of
interest in my welfare, and I desire so to walk that my friends
may continue thus to feel, and as way opens therefor in their
minds, to drop me a word. Although we are to look to the
Fountain for our dependence, it is pleasant and refreshing to
meet a brook by the way. In relation to my prospects, I know
little or nothing of what is before me. I did not go to the ren
dezvous at the time notified, but sent a note to the Provost
Marshal that my non-appearance was in consequence of conscien
tious convictions. I have not heard from him since. The present
would be a most trying time to be taken from my family and
business, but if needs be I will endeavor to be content, hoping
that faith, patience and strength will not be withheld, and that
the watchful eye of the Shepherd of Israel will be over those
that are left behind. Farewell, Joseph S. Elkinton.
The following is taken from the minutes of the Meet
ing for Sufferings in the year 1863, as forwarded by the
committee appointed at that meeting to inquire whether
any of our members had suffered because of our testi
mony against war, the account being given to that com
mittee by the Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadel
phia for the Southern District: Joseph S. Elkinton was
drafted Seventh month, 27, 1863, for three years' service
in the army of the United States and received notice to
appear at the rendezvous by the fourteenth of the fol
lowing month. Two days previous to the expiration of
this period he addressed a note to the Provost Marshal
of the District, informing him that his intended non-

46 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1863
appearance at the time and place designated arose from
a conscientious conviction that all wars and fightings are
forbidden by the Christian religion ; and that as a Chris
tian he could not fight, procure a substitute, or pay any
sum of money as commutation for military service; and
also that he proposed remaining as usual at his place of
business. For some time after this he was not molested
by the military authorities, but on the twenty-fifth of
First month, 1864, being sent for by them, he accom
panied the messenger to the office of the Provost Marshal,
where much effort was made, by argument and persua
sion, to induce him to yield to the requisitions of the
Government and perform the military service or pay the
pecuniary equivalent. He, however, steadily maintained
his testimony against all wars and expressed his willing
ness to suffer the consequences that might be permitted
to come upon him rather than to assist in the destruction
of his fellow-creatures or to compromise his religious
principles in any way. At the close of the interview the
officers willing to grant as much relief as possible, com
patible with their instructions, allowed a postponement
of the case until it should have been represented to the
Secretary of War. This was accordingly done, and on
thirteenth of Second month, 1864, he was informed by the
Provost Marshal that in consequence of orders which
had been received from the War Department that those
who were conscientious against bearing arms or paying
commutation fees were to be considered non-combatants,

Age 33 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 47
and upon the Provost Marshal being convinced of their
sincerity to be paroled. He was accordingly at liberty
until he should be again sent for, but after this he was
not again disturbed.
Some Account of Interview with the Provost
Marshal by J. S. E.
On the twenty-third of First month, 1864, there came
a messenger from the Provost Marshal of this district,
William C. Lehman, with instructions according to his
own statement to bring me before him. I hesitated about
complying therewith, which, being observed, the messen
ger said : "If it does not suit you to come now, come up
on Monday at one o'clock." I took advantage of this in
order to gain time for consideration, the only point in
holding back was whether I was not voluntarily placing
myself under military authority. I told the messenger
I would either go to the Marshal's office on Second-day,
the twenty-fifth, at one o'clock, or send a reason for not
doing it. He went away, not quite satisfied with my not
going, saying, "You had better not send a reason. I
would rather you would go with me now, as I was told
to bring you; but I will take back your answer to the
Marshal." On Second-day, the twenty-fifth, another
messenger came after me about 10.30 A. M., being before
the time named on Seventh-day and having deliberately
decided it would be best for me to go, I went with him
to the Provost Marshal's office. The messenger on the

48 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1863
way up endeavored to present to my view that the best
thing to be done was to procure a substitute. Soon after
entering the office, the Provost Marshal said to a dignified
looking man sitting beside him, whom I took to be the
Commissioner : "Alderman, this is one of our law-abiding
citizens who belongs to a persuasion or sect whose prin
ciples or rules are against fighting." The following is
a concise statement of the conversation which ensued
as nearly as remembered:
Provost Marshal : "Do you not consider we are bound
to obey the law?"
J. S. E. : "In every way not opposed or contrary to the
Divine Law."
Provost Marshal : "Some may say one thing and some
say another thing is opposed to this law you speak of.
Would it not lead into confusion and who is to judge?"
J. S. E. : "It is our doctrine that when any advance
sentiments or take a position contrary to the Holy
Scriptures, they are not to be heard and we are willing
to be judged by this rule ourselves. There is in the
breast of each of us the sense of right and wrong, we
may not see alike in all things, differing according to the
measure of Divine Grace received, but there are some
things in which we can all agree, for instance (address
ing the Commissioner), thou no doubt believes it would
be wrong to go into a person's store and take his money
and that it would also be wrong to send another for
that purpose, and if thou wast told if thou didst not

Age 33 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 49
do the act thou must pay a sum thou wouldst not pay
for refraining to do that thou knew to be wrong."
Commissioner: "Suppose a man was to break into your
house, attack your wife and children, would you not call
on a police officer to put him out?"
J. S. E. : "I would have no objection to doing that ; we
are friends of good order, and there is nothing in me
that would object on the ground of principle, to serve
as a public officer, and if appointed should not object to
serve (not that I have any liking for the business), but
I would not carry arms, nor would I shrink from going
into places of danger in the performance of duty; if I
did I would be justly chargeable with the imputation of
cowardice, which was so often cast upon us."
Commissioner: "Would you not kill a man to defend
or save your own life?"
J. S. E. : "No ; I must trust to a Higher Power for
safety. I would not take life unless it were done in a
time of weakness, heated by passion, in which case I
would condemn it. I can under no circumstances justify
taking life."
Provost Marshal : "Do you remember the text in refer
ence to paying tribute: 'Render unto Cassar the things
that are Caesar's and unto God the things that are
God's?'" J. S. E. : "We accept the text that we are to pay taxes
or tribute for the purposes of general government, and
as we do not expect to have a controlling influence in the

50 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1863
disposition of the public funds, we do not consider we
are responsible if portions of it are applied to purposes
which we cannot approve, and in accordance with this
view of the matter I pay to the government in the form
of duties and taxes on goods, etc., nearly as much as I
give my own family for support; but when taxes are
levied for a special purpose inconsistent with the spirit
and precepts of the Christian religion, we cannot pay
them." Commissioner: "The $300 commutation money is not
applied for the special purpose of employing substitutes,
but goes into the public treasury to be applied to such
use as Congress deems proper."
J. S. E. : "That is different from what I have always
understood and, if correct, would remove one objection;
but there is another objection I cannot get over, and
that is paying for what I believe to be wrong."
Commissioner : "In some places in the country the law
stands that if a man will not serve as constable when
elected, he is to pay a fine, and some of your people
have so done."
J. S. E. : "There is this distinction in their situation
and my present one, refusing to act as constable would
only be a question of dislike. If appointed, I should
probably serve; but if I did not, could not object on
conscientious grounds to paying the fine. But in my
present situation I object to serving in the army, because
it is considered the business of a soldier to go forth to

Age 33 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 51
kill and destroy, which is incompatible with the prin
ciples of the Christian religion and was so considered
by the early Christians, none of whom were to be found
in the army for about three centuries after our Saviour
and many suffered death because of their unwillingness
to bear arms, and we have an account of one young man
in particular who suffered death rather than wear the
mark or badge of a soldier."
Commissioner: "Is that correct?"
J. S. E. : "The account handed down by history is
that not until the decline of the Church did those pro
fessing Christianity enter into the army and the first
account we have of. a Christian Legion, as it was called,
is somewhere about the third or fourth century."
Commissioner: "But has not your Society come to
some understanding in this matter? I think in some
sections of the country, when the draft was proposed
under the State law some eighteen months ago, numbers
of your people gave security they would pay such a sum
as the Legislature should inflict in lieu of military serv
ice. I think there were some cases of this kind came
before me, but the draft never came off, and the Legis
lature never acted on the matter."
J. S. E. : "I was not aware of such having been done.
I never gave such security, nor has our Society in this
city come to such an understanding. We would disown
our members if they were to pay such a fine."
Commissioner: "At the time of the application for

52 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1863
exemption under the State law, there were numbers came
to us making claim for exemption that we did not believe
had any conscientious scruples, but only made claim to
get off, but the law required us to exempt them and we
had to grant it."
J. S. E. : "We have reason to believe such was the case,
that some who might perhaps be found in a private brawl
did but make pretense of conscience to get exempted,
which was a reproach on us and we had to bear it, but
I hope my conduct through life may be such that I may
not only be consistent with myself, but that you also
may be satisfied concerning my sincerity."
Commissioner: "I believe yours a real case of con
science, but the national law does not grant exemption
on that ground."
Provost Marshal: "It has been decided by Holt and
Whitely (he then read certain documents on the sub
ject) that when a drafted man claimed exemption and
it was not granted, that such person should render per
sonal service, and there is no law to grant exemption on
the ground of conscience. I am disposed to give your
views consideration, but am in a strait ; yet I see the utter
absurdity of sending a man to the army who will not
fight or carry a musket."
J. S. E. : "I make no claim for exemption on any law
of the United States. Under the State we have a law
exempting those who for conscience sake cannot fight,
but, it not being under the national law, I must simply

Age 33 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 53
abide the issue of my case, having nothing new to offer.
It is no use for any one to come forward and make con
fession of conscientious scruples without they would
rather suffer than compromise their principles."
Provost Marshal: "In some of the cases brought up
on this ground some of their friends have managed the
matter and satisfied the law." (Evidently meaning by
paying the commutation fee.)
J. S. E. : "Doubtless those who paid were influenced
by kind motives, but it would be much better for our
people if they would mind their own business and leave
us to our principles for support, for if we found they
would not support us in time of emergency, we would
give them up."*
My father, now entering the office, he and the Com
missioner became engaged on the subject of the com
mutation fee, the Commissioner saying it went into the
public treasury and was therefore not different from any
other tax. Father did not consider that the case, but
that it was for the express purpose of procuring substi
tutes. He also added that even though the money might
be applied for benevolent objects of which we might
approve, we still could not pay for exemption from

?One of my neighbors was very desirous to pay the commuta
tion fee and it would probably have been a satisfaction to him to
have been allowed to do it. I had much difficulty to dissuade
him, telling him I wanted my liberty, but not at the price of
blood, and that were he to pay for me it would grieve me.

54 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1864
military service, and stated it had been proposed by the
Secretary of War that a fund should be founded on the
commutation money and appropriated for the benefit of
the Freedmen, a class in whom our sympathies were much
inlisted, but we could not consent thereto.
The Commissioner asked the Marshal if the case could
not be postponed. He replied in the affirmative, and it
was put off one week, the Marshal expressing the wish I
would find some hole for him to creep out of. Father
observed the Secretary of War had paroled those on
whose account he had been applied to, who were re
strained from joining the army by their conscientious
scruples. The Commissioner remarked that would re
lieve us. We believe this a real case of conscience and
if necessary would be willing to express it in writing.
I said I would like to have it. The Marshal whispered
something to the Commissioner, and it was left.
Fourth month 25, 1864. I wrote the following letter to
Secretary of War: First Month 25, 1864.
Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War,
Respected Friend : On the 27th of Seventh month last I was
drafted for service into the army of the United States and re
ceived notice soon after from the Provost Marshal to report
at the rendezvous on the 14th of the following month for mili
tary service. I sent a statement to the Provost Marshal that my
non-compliance with this order was in consequence of the convic
tion in my own mind that all wars and fightings are contrary to
the spirit and precepts of the Christian religion, and therefore I
felt conscientiously restrained from performing military service

Age 34 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 55
furnishing a substitute or paying any sum as a commutation fee.
To-day I was sent for by the Marshal, William L. Lehman, who
treated me respectfully; said he was in a strait, although dis
posed to give my views consideration, he did not see any other
course legally to pursue than to send me to the army unless he
had authority from thee to act otherwise, and adjourned the case
for one week, which he said would give me opportunity to hear
from thee. I therefore respectfully solicit such a document from
thy hand as may induce him to grant me the continuance of my
liberty. Joseph S. Elkinton,
783 South Second Street.
P. S. — Understanding thou art personally acquainted with
Thomas Evans, of this city, and he having knowledge of me, I
have asked a certificate of his view of the sincerity of my declara
tion. Copy of Thomas Evans' certificate :
I believe the above account of my friend Joseph S. Elkinton
to be correct and commend his case to the kind consideration and
action of my valued friend, Edwin M. Stanton. Thomas Evans.
Second month i. Went at the time appointed to the
office of the Provost Marshal and waiting until about
fifteen minutes of 10 o'clock, and he not appearing, I
wrote the following note and left it in his office to be
given him: First month 25, 1864.
William E. Lehman, Provost Marshal.
Respected Friend : I came at the time appointed to this place
and not seeing thee, and there being a religious meeting I am
desirous of attending I leave, but will return at any time thou
wilt appoint and inform me, or as soon after as practical.
Joseph S. Elkinton.

56 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1864
Second month i. Was again sent for by the Provost
Marshal, and I told him and the Commissioner that I
had written to the Secretary of War, but had received
no answer. I had not expected he would write to me,
but thought perhaps he would write to some official.
The Provost Marshal then said that orders had been
received from Washington that those who were drafted
and were conscientious against bearing arms or paying
commutation fees, or belonged to a creed whose doc
trines or rules forbid fighting, might be considered as
noncombatants, and upon the Provost Marshal being
satisfied with their sincerity, was at liberty to parole them
until they should be sent for, which said the Commis
sioner, "will never be. And," continued the Marshal,
"as your case seems to be covered by this, we will so
dispose of it, and do not see that it is necessary to detain
you longer." Then said I, "I am at liberty until sent
for?" "Yes," he replied. I then remarked, "I receive
my liberty with thankfulness and am glad there are some
in this day who are willing to think as George Washing
ton when he lay with his army at Valley Forge. There
were brought before him four Friends with muskets
strapped on their backs to know what was to be done
with them. Washington said, 'We do not want such
men that will not fight; let them go. The Quakers are
a peaceable, industrious people, and do not give the
Government trouble. It is better for the country to let
them raise corn and other articles than to undertake to

Age 34 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 57
make them do what they are no manner of use at.' "
The Provost Marshal responded, "I think Washington
wise." Thus I trust ends this matter, which has given
me considerable exercise, accompanied with the desire
that, in whatever situation I may be thrown, I may be
preserved from breaking the noble testimony we are
called upon to bear to the peaceable nature of the
Redeemer's Kingdom. And feelings of thankfulness
are due unto Him who hath disposed those in authority
to regard conscience and hath planted in our hearts this
living principle which, if lived up to, not only insures
a feeling of peace, but preserves from rushing into that
scene of carnage and destruction which is now spread
ing such desolation throughout the land.
Second month 20. Received a reply from the War
Department to my letter to the Secretary of War, stat
ing that a furlough had been ordered to be granted me
until called for.
The letter is as follows :
War Department,
Washington City, February 18th, 1864.
Sir : In reply to your communication of the 25th ultimo, I am
instructed by the Secretary of War to inform you that you
have been ordered to be granted a furlough until called for.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Ed. M. Stanton,
Brig. Gen'l, A. A. G.
Joseph S. Elkinton,
783 South Second Street, Philadelphia, Penna.

58 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1864
Special orders No. 88.
War Department,
Adjutant General's Office.
Washington, February 23, 1864.
(Extract.)
32. Joseph S. Elkinton, a drafted man, from the First Dis
trict of Pennsylvania, now at headquarters of that district, a
member of the Society of Friends, will be permitted to absent
himself from military duty upon his parole of honor, to return
whenever called for. . .
By order of the Secretary of War. E. D. Townsend,
(Official) Assistant Adjutant Gen'l.
E. D. Townsend,
Assistant Adjutant General.
Second month 2. I was quite tender one morning on
the street as I was tapped on the shoulder by an old man
apparently near the end of his earthly journey, who was
the pastor of what is called the "Old Swedes' Church,"
the oldest house of worship in this city. He said to me :
"I heard you were ordered to go to war. I am con
cerned about you. What will you do?" I replied, "I
will not go without they take me, and then I cannot fight,
for Christianity forbids it." "You stick to that," said
he, as he passed on.

CHAPTER III.
Beginning of Ministerial Services.
Second month. My aunt Edith, wife of uncle George
Elkinton, deceased Second month 2d, 1864, after a
week's illness of typhoid pneumonia. At her funeral I
quoted the language: "Be ye therefore perfect even as
your Father which is in heaven is perfect," and as
nothing impure or unholy could ever enter the abode
of rest and peace, how important that we be prepared to
be brought to the judgment seat of Him who will reward
every man according to the deeds done in the body,
whether they be good or whether they be evil. Believing
the present to be a time of renewed visitation to some
then present, my heart's desire and prayer was, there
might be a co-operation with the manifestations of the
Spirit of Truth, whereby ability would be received to
cease to do evil and to learn to do well, and one evil
propensity after another being overcome, there would
be experienced a growth and establishment in the Truth.
Second month 12. Attended Twelfth Street Meeting
and felt constrained to begin with the language: "Be
still and know that I am God." "And this is life eternal
that they might know thee, the only true God and Jesus
Christ, whom thou hast sent." And how shall we know
the Saviour, save as he is revealed to us in the secret
59

60 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1865
of our hearts. If we be concerned to gather in the still
ness of all flesh seeking the Saviour, being drawn by
the drawing chords of the Father's love, He will appear
unto us as a light, opening our understanding and giving
us to see concerning those things which belong to our
soul's peace, and as we are willing to follow the Light,
though it lead into the path of self-denial and abasedness
of self, we would know the Lord Jesus to be our Leader
and Director and the invincible Captain of our salvation,
giving us the victory over one evil propensity after
another, until our thoughts and affections became
changed. That which was earthly shall become heavenly,
yea we shall know of the baptism of the Holy Ghost
and of fire, that all that is contrary to the Divine Nature
shall be cleansed and consumed ; and experiencing the
answer of a good conscience toward God, our hearts
will become fit temples for his holiness to dwell in.
" 'Ye are the temple of the living God. If so be, He
will dwell in you and be in you,' then indeed shall we
know the Father, holding union and communion with
Him and shall be made heirs of immortality and eternal
life." Third month 14, 1865. Our dear mother passed from
time to eternity about four o'clock this morning, on which
solemn occasion father was bowed in supplication, com
mencing with "Oh, Thou who alone knoweth the end
from the beginning," and then went on to plead for
support during the remaining days which were to be

Age 35 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 61
allotted to him. I was told that on the day my dear
father and mother were married that father appeared
in prayer with the same language as that he used in the
beginning of his supplication to-day when mother died.
Third month 16. We were favored with a solemn
opportunity at the time of the funeral. Hannah War
rington, Samuel Bettle, uncle George Elkinton, Yardly
Warner and Samuel Cope all had offerings. At the
grave I knelt and implored that the dispensation might
be blessed and sanctified; that every desire after holi
ness and amendment of life might be strengthened ; that
by walking by the same rule and minding the same things
as those who have been gathered to their eternal rest,
we also might be permitted to lay down our heads in
peace and be gathered into that city whose walls are
salvation and whose gates are praise.
Fourth month 24. Our beloved friend, Ann Branson,
from Ohio, spent the afternoon and took tea with us.
We had a memorable religious opportunity in which she
addressed me, saying that as I had had a sense of right,
it was her desire I might hold thereto and be faithful to
the manifestations of the Spirit.
Later. The next day she dined at the home of Charles
Williams, where she had some service with two girls
employed by the family. To one of them she spoke in
an encouraging manner; to the other by way of warning
against false speaking, stealing, etc. It afterward proved
that Ann Branson had a correct sense of their respective

62 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1865
states, as Grace Williams testified to the one as being
faithful and the other exceedingly trying and deceitful.
Fifth month 28. Attended Western District Meeting
this evening and appeared in testimony in this wise : "As
the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so is the Lord
round about them that fear him. Yea, the angel of his
presence will encamp round about them that fear him
and will deliver them." I had been led into sympathy
with a state that did love the Lord Jesus in sincerity,
was concerned to walk humbly with their God, having
his holy fear before their eyes, but were bowed down, as
it were, beyond measure; under a sense it might be of
their own shortcomings, or borne under a weight of
affliction ; or it might be on account of the low state of the
Church. There were many things on account of which
we might be properly exercised, but it was not designed
we should dwell upon them to our destruction. As in the
outward, it was not good to dwell upon a subject to the
exclusion of all else till the mind became unbalanced, so
in the spiritual it was not best to dwell upon a dispensa-?
tion till that holy composure and settlement, which was
the portion of the righteous, should be broken up, lest
we lose our confidence in that Omnipotent Arm of power
which had hitherto helped us and delivered us out of all
pur distresses. If there is such a state, it is with me to
speak comfortingly, reminding such, there are given
unto us exceeding great and precious promises, that by
these we might be made partakers of the divine nature,

Age 35 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 63
having union and communion with God. And though
it might please Him to feed us with the bread of adver
sity and with the water of affliction, and veil the glorious
light of his countenance from us so that every sensible
evidence of the divine favor be withdrawn, yet He would
never leave nor forsake those whose love is chaste and
pure toward Him. "I will not leave thee nor forsake
thee." May we therefore cry unto Him who is able to
give us the faith which the inspired writer possessed
when he said : "Though the fig tree should not blossom
and the labor of the olive should fail, and there be no
fruit on the vine, and the flocks be cut off from the field,
and there be no herd in the stall, yet will I joy in the
Lord and rejoice in the God of my salvation." As we
come to this we shall be enabled to rejoice in tribulation
and learn in whatsoever state we are, therewith to be
content. Ye that fear the Lord, hope in the Lord for
everlasting joy and mercy.
Eighth month. When out on a business trip through
the South and whilst in Richmond I was struck with the
number of colored men to be seen on the streets, as it
was in Washington last winter. There is certainly a
large field for philanthropy and benevolence here. They
have in a way but poor ideas of economy. It is feared
that next winter when employment may be more difficult
to obtain, there will be much suffering. A citizen of
Richmond remarked to me that everybody wondered at
one thing, and that was the quiet and orderly manner in

64 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1865
which the blacks had conducted themselves since the
transition from a state of slavery.
Engaged a conveyance to take me from Richmond to
Petersburg. The colored driver was an interesting man
and very communicative in reference to the operations
of the war. His wife had been a slave to one who, it was
said, owned five hundred slaves. He said he waited on
a Florida regiment that went into battle fifteen hundred
strong, of whom only ten were supposed to be alive ; but,
said he, no colored man entered the Confederate army
because he wanted to fight for the Confederate cause,
but many in Richmond joined because they were so
nearly starved out and wanted to get something to eat
and a suit of clothes, hoping to have a chance to desert
or be taken prisoner. I saw much of the earthworks on
the side of Richmond towards Petersburg, and for fif
teen miles or more the woods and trees were blackened
and burned from the engagement. This appears to be
where Butler fought and retreated.
I saw many graves of the poor creatures who were
sent into eternity, many of whom, no doubt, in an un
prepared state. I remarked to the driver, "A man
makes a small show when his bones are under ground."
"But what about his soul?" said the colored man.
Returned to Richmond on the rickety cars. Not a
seat had a back, although they charged about three prices
for fare. This road, I understood, was used by Lee in

Age 35 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 65
moving his troops back and forth in the line of battle
between Richmond and Petersburg.
Tenth month. Taken from a letter to J. S. E. by his
father, who had started out with Joseph Scattergood,
Thomas Wistar and Ebenezer Worth to visit among the
Indians and deliver an address prepared by the Indian
Committee :
My dear Son : — We left Albany at 7 o'clock A. M. ;
came on to Oneida, a distance of one hundred and
twenty-two miles, and hired a conveyance to take us to
the Indian settlement, a distance of about three miles.
Went to the house of Thomas Cornelius, an Oneida
Indian and a minister of the Methodist persuasion
amongst them. They kindly took us in and in the course
of the afternoon prepared a good supper for us. We
opened the subject of our visit to him, and he, in con
junction with one of their chiefs, concluded to call their
people together in the evening, which was accordingly
done, and we had rather a remarkable interview with
them. After the reading of the Address of the Com
mittee, which informed them of the object of our visit
to them, we had each of us some remarks to make,
which, by their replies, were cordially received. They
appeared very glad of the visit and spoke of the long
time that had elapsed since they had been visited by
Friends. Four of their people replied to what had been
said to them, expressing their thanks therefor. The
men commenced each taking us by the hand as they

66 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1865
passed out and followed by the women doing the same
in quite a touching manner. We returned to the house
of Thomas Cornelius and after taking our seats in his
parlor, he said, "We have had a good time." Thomas
appears to be a man of sweet and pleasant countenance
and the order manifested in his family was very pleasant
to observe. {Next day.) After breakfast this morning
we went in a lumber wagon three or four miles from
Thomas Cornelius' to another part of the settlement,
where we met with a number of men and women at the
School and Meeting House, which is sometimes occupied
for one and sometimes for another purpose. We in
formed them in a few words the object of our visit and
each one of the Committee had some remarks to make,
which appeared to be comforting and satisfactory to
them. We were then told that each of those assembled
would pass by and take us by the hand as was done last
evening, they keeping up their singing until the last one
of us had been taken by the hand. We contemplate get
ting to Onondaga to-night. We are all well and expect
to pursue our journey with diligence.
With love to all, I remain affectionately thy father,
Joseph Elkinton.
St. Regis Reservation,
St. Lawrence River.
Eleventh month 2.
My dear Son Joseph S. Have a little leisure this

Age 35 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 67
morning previous to the assembling of Council which is
to convene at 12 M.
My last was dated Tenth month 31st, from Ogdens-
burg. That night we arrived safely at Coonsville, where
we lodged. Yesterday morning we took boat to St.
Regis and arrived here about 9 A. M. We felt like
strangers in a strange land. Upon landing, inquiry was
made for a chief's house, and we were taken to one not
far from the wharf and were kindly received. His name
was Solomon and he was a Roman Catholic. We passed
by the house of the priest, who resides near the church,
as it is called, but we did not see him. We found it was
a holiday among them and soon heard the bell ringing
to collect the people. Several of the natives were in the
house and we, in a brief manner, told them of the object
of our visit, and they concluded to meet us in Council at
noon to-day, after which we went through a part of the
Reservation and dined with Thomas Hill, a St. Regis
Indian, and had considerable conversation with himself
and wife and Thomas La Forte upon the subject of edu
cating the children of the natives. On our return we
called on two of the natives, one of whom was a wheel
wright; then came on to the house of an Indian, Mitchell
Solomon, who kindly offered to accommodate us over
night, which we accepted. . . . Our Council convened
and quite a number of Indians gathered, and we had an
interesting interview and thy father came off much more
comfortably than he expected. After close of Council I

68 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1865
went to Mitchell Solomon's and bade his wife and family
farewell, thanking them for their hospitality. We went
to the wharf and took passage in the ferryboat to Corn
wall, where we expect to take train and reach Tuscarora
Reservation to-morrow evening.
Eleventh month 4. We are at John Mount Pleasant's,
a Tuscarora Indian, where we arrived last evening, and
were kindly received by himself and wife; and such ac
commodations as we have had I think I never experienced
in the house of an Indian. He told me last evening that
he had sold nearly a thousand dollars' worth of hay,
raised from 400 to 500 bushels of wheat; sold a large
number of barrels of apples, has eleven cows, and dis
poses of much butter, for which he now gets forty-five
cents per pound. At a late agricultural fair at Tono-
wanda he exhibited twenty-seven varieties of apples, and
they live in a house that would pass very well in Ger-
mantown. In much love, thy father, Joseph Elkinton.
Eleventh month 8, 1865. Considered the coldest day
on record in this city, thermometer registered from 10 to
18 below zero, at Westtown 20 degrees below.
Extract from a letter of Alfred Cope to J. S. E. :
First Month 31, 1866.
Dear Joseph : — Thy company at our meeting yester
day was so acceptable to me that I feel that I should

Age 36 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 69
hardly do right in refraining altogether from expressing
to thee something of my feelings. I hope thou may be
faithful to any intimation of duty from the right source.
Our meetings for business are apt to fall into a cold
formal routine, and if they do, and continue so, many
evils will follow. We want amongst us some who are
not only sensible of this, but such as are at times author
ized to give utterance to their exercises. These may be
at times, as it were, a mouth-piece to some whose lips are
sealed. . . . Again I say, let no discouragement come
over three; only be sure thou art on the true watch
tower, Affectionately, A. Cope.
Second month 9. Extract from a letter to Anna Ed-
gerton from J. S. E. :
Dear Aunt Anna Edgerton : — Received thy affecting
letter with the account of the death of our dear uncle
Joseph Edgerton. . . . Thou hast lost a beloved com
panion, and some of us feel that one has been removed
who was deeply concerned for our present and everlast
ing welfare. Yea, the church has lost a faithful laborer
whose place is not likely to be refilled. He was devoted
to the good cause and qualified to labor abundantly in the
Lord's vineyard. But whilst those who are left may not
possess the gifts which he did, yet may what we have be
properly exercised and a living concern maintained for
the prosperity of Zion.

70 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1866
With feelings of love, and deep sympathy to all the
family. J- S. Elkinton.
An interesting experience when J. S. E. was in Wash
ington, D. C, on business and had occasion to be in the
House of Representatives is recorded under date of
Third month 30th, 1866, viz. :
I went up to the gallery and took my seat, where I
had been but a little while when the door-keeper called
upon me to remove my hat. I told him I kept it on from
no disrespect, but I belonged to the Society of Friends
which had always had a principle to support against
taking off the hat as a point of honor. He said his
orders were positive not to allow any one to go in with
his hat on. I went to another door and took my seat
where I was again called upon to take off my hat. I
reasoned with him, stating that I objected from prin
ciple, and that the bill then before Congress was one
that I was much interested in, as my living was con
cerned in it, but I could not sacrifice principle for inter
est. He seemed disposed to oblige me, but was evidently
afraid of incurring censure from his superior officers if
he allowed me to remain. I returned to the Commis
sioner and asked him if he thought our representative
would attend to my interest, and he thought he would.
I, however, did not feel easy to let it rest without making
further effort to be present, accordingly returned to the
Capitol and asked the door-keeper who had last spoken
to me if he would kindly tell me just where the House

Age 36 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 71
was engaged. He went into the Library and brought out
a printed bill and told me they were engaged on the
same page our articles were on; in fact, he showed me
no little kindness and said he had great respect for the
Society of Friends. I went to the floor below and had
Samuel J. Randall sent for, who came out, stating that
my call was timely, as they were near the part I was
most interested in, but afterward some one made a long
speech which occupied the time until an adjournment
was made at 4.35.
Next morning visited one of the colored schools be
longing to the New York Freedman's Association, also
one of Friends' Freedman's Association of this city, and
was impressed with the belief that these schools were
conferring a great benefit upon the colored race. After
the visit to these schools, repaired to the Capitol and
about 10 o'clock went to the door-keeper with whom I
had my last interview, and asked for the loan of the
copy of the tax bill then before Congress and requested
him to notify me when the House entered upon that
subject, which he did. I then went round to the south
door of the gallery and took a seat inside opposite Ran
dall, so that he had full opportunity to observe me by
my hat and be reminded thereby of my desire to have
sal soda entered on the bill. The matter was attended
to, and after calling Samuel Randall out and expressing
obligation to him for his attention, I returned home with
a thankful heart that the object of my visit had been

72 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1866
successful, and I had not compromised my principle,
although on my return my brother advised me next time
I went to Washington to throw my hat out of the win
dow, and not attempt to evangelize Congress, for it was
not their profession.
Fifth month 12. Attended the funeral of Enos Sharp
less, father-in-law of my brother Thomas. Many Friends
were gathered and some vocal service both at the house
and ground. There was an individual present who has
lately applied to our religious Society to be received into
membership. Her husband was struck by lightning and
died within a few hours, leaving her and her children in
limited circumstances. One of our tracts came into her
hands, which she read with deep interest and communi
cating with a Friend, he procured for her Barclay's
Apology, reading which her understanding seemed to
become opened in reference to our views of the gospel
ministry. Fourth month 10. Visiting John S. Stokes in the eve
ning, he related that in the year 1826 Richard Jordan in
the Quarterly Meeting at Haddonfield spoke in a pro
phetic manner, describing what would happen to our
Society in that place, closing with, "If these things are
not so, the Lord hath not spoken this day to me." Job
Haines, a Friend who had hitherto traveled with Richard
Jordan and been in close unity with him for many years,
spoke to him after meeting, stating that the communica
tion had been very painful to him. Richard Jordan re-

Age 36 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 73
plied, "I am not sensible that I have said any more or
less than my Master bid me." R. J. did not live to see
the fulfillment of what he had declared, but Job Haines
did, and would relate the above circumstance with tears,
saying he had learned it was as important for Elders to
mind their business as Ministers theirs.
Fourth month. Joseph Scattergood stated in our
Monthly Meeting that our friend, Joseph S. Elkinton,
having for a considerable time appeared in the ministry,
the Preparative Meeting of Ministers and Elders were
united, that it would be proper for the case to claim the
attention of the Monthly Meeting; that if it believed a
gift in the ministry had been committed to him, a minute
might be made out and forwarded to the Quarterly
Meeting of Ministers and Elders. The Meeting con
cluded to forward the case and a minute was accordingly
made. Oh! saith my spirit, may I be enabled to walk, as to
bring no reproach on the blessed cause of Truth and
Righteousness, and should Friends deem it right to place
me in a station of such responsibility, may the Lord be
with me, guide me, and direct my steps according to his
own good pleasure; keep me from falling, build me up
and give me an inheritance among those that are sancti
fied in Christ Jesus. But oh, the awfulness of the sacred
office! What need of watchfulness unto prayer, and
taking heed to the steps that I may walk in and out with
acceptance !

74 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1S66
Seventh month. Father, during the past year, has
traveled considerably, sometimes on one appointment and
sometimes another. He and Joseph Scattergood, in the
Third month, visited the Indians on Long Island belong
ing to the Shinecock tribe. They gave an interesting
report of their situation, found them well clothed and a
good deal of thrift among them. There were one hun
dred and forty-seven men when all were at home, though
some were out on the whale fishery.
Again in company with Joseph Scattergood and Samuel
Morris, father lately paid a visit to the settlement at
Tunesassa, under the care of Friends' Indian Commitee.
One object of their visit was to induce the Indians to
refuse leasing their lands to the whites, which of late
has been a growing evil. Several councils were held to
good purpose, some of the old chiefs, in a feeling manner,
expressing their gratitude for the continued interest in
their welfare.
Eleventh month 28. In our Meeting to-day I thought
the Divine Presence was sweetly felt, and it seemed to
be my place to fall upon my knees with the language:
"We would not approach Thee with unhallowed lips, but
'thy name is as ointment poured forth, therefore do we
love Thee ;' " and then asked for those who were in
suffering and who by cause of affliction and infirmity
might be prevented from gathering to these solemn as
semblies, that they might be comforted with that over

Age 36 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 75
which disease, affliction and infirmity could not triumph ;
that those who were neglecting their duties, prizing not
their privileges, but might be following vanities, forsaking
their own mercies; that the hearts of these might be
touched as with a live coal from off the holy altar; that
they might fear the name of the Lord and know His
power working within them to their sanctification and
redemption. And those who were spending their time,
strength and substance for what they supposed the pro
motion of the cause, yet were not willing to go into
suffering with the suffering seed; that these might be
met as in a narrow place, and taught that we are nothing
— Christ is all; that they might be baptized and know
more of a being washed in the laver of regeneration; that
their crowns might be laid at the feet of Jesus, and they
sit down and wait for the gracious words that proceed
out of his mouth.
That the children might be blessed and all, young and
old, be fed with food convenient for us. That our offer
ings might be made in righteousness and ascend as in
cense, for Thou, Father, art in heaven and we upon the
earth. Thine alone is the power, and the glory and the
victory and the majesty, all that is in the heaven and the
earth, is thine. Thine is the kingdom and Thou art ex
alted God over all, blessed forever be thy holy worthy
Name. First month 29, 1867. Attended the funeral of Lind-

76 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1867
say Nicholson, and at the grave I thought it right to
sound the language: "Be ye also ready, for in such an
hour as ye think not the Son of Man cometh." The old
must die and the young may die ; may we then, one and
all, have our accounts so prepared that, should the slender
thread of life be severed, they might be given up with joy
and not with grief ; that we might stand with acceptance
before the judge of the quick and the dead, and that we
might be permitted an entrance into that kingdom, where
nothing impure or unholy shall ever enter. "Be ye also
ready, for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of
Man cometh."
Ninth month 4. My sister, Sarah Elkinton, was mar
ried to-day to Ephraim Smith. We were favored with
a good meeting. Samuel Cope spoke on the subject of
baptism, bringing forth the spiritual view of it ; how that
we were baptized by the one spirit into the one body.
One of our neighbors, who is a Baptist deacon, spoke of
the discourse being particularly satisfactory to him, as
he believed in the baptism of the spirit. Elizabeth Evans
enlarged on the passage, "Except the Lord build the
house, they labor in vain who build it." After S. E.'s
marriage, myself and family moved into my father's
house. Ninth month 2. In a meeting at Muney I felt myself
called upon to speak, but I had not gone far before the
light seemed withdrawn and I told the meeting thai I
had felt that I had an opening and the word of command

Age 37 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 77
with a sense of the Saviour at my side, but the feeling of
this was so withdrawn that to go on would be as one
seeking to draw from a well without water, or as a cloud
driven by a tempest. I felt for a time as if I would be
glad for the floor to open and let me through, but after a
time I felt the spirit of supplication to cover us, and I
made an offering in that line which afforded relief.
A Friend afterwards told me that some time previously
a minister had been at that place when there was a con
siderable number of those not members present, and the
minister fared very much as I had done and after a few
words had to give up. Some time after he returned and
asked for an appointed meeting. His seemingly foolish
appearance on the former occasion was remembered, and
although a meeting was granted, many came in the spirit
of curiosity, thinking he could not preach ; but the Master
ordered it otherwise and so helped his poor servant that
many were astonished and Truth honored in their eyes.
Eleventh month 14. Father left home to visit the
Indians in New York State. I had doubts of his strength
being sufficient for the journey, as the event proved. He
first went to Tunesassa, and then to the Cornplanter
Reservation. The road being rough, it hurt him to
travel, and he gave up the further prosecution of the
journey. Eleventh month 11. Our son Thomas was born this
day. Eleventh month 21. Extract from a letter to William

78 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1868
Scattergood: In reference to thy closing remarks, will
take the liberty of responding. I never felt the liberty
to ask for our children more than an ordinary share of
intelligence, but if the Giver of every good and perfect
gift will give them of his unspeakable gift of Divine
grace with a fair share of intelligence, gratitude ought to
clothe the hearts of their parents, followed by a righteous
concern to seek help in training them the way they should
go. In love, J. S. E.
Twelfth month 30. Extract of a letter from William
Bedell: Thy remembrance of me is precious. Bear me
upon thy spirit so that when access is granted thee at the
footstool,' it may be with breathings for my growth and
an establishment in the ever-blessed and unchangeable
Truth, and should service be called for, may I know the
necessary preparation and then stand open through the
Lord's holy help, according to his will. Friends of the
four city meetings have this winter agreed to hold meet
ings in the Arch Street House on Fifth-day evenings,
some of which have been truly favored meetings. In love,
J. S. E.
First month 29, 1868. Father started with the view of
attending Greenwich Monthly Meeting, to be held next
day on the 30th. The stage from Bridgeton to Green
wich was full, so father had to ride on the front seat, and
the ride was so cold and rough that he arrived at our

Age 38 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 79
dear friend Clarkson Sheppard's in a pitiable and suffer
ing condition. He failed in getting to Monthly Meeting
next day as he intended, but spent the day in bed. Our
dear friends showed him every consideration and kind
ness, and the following day (31st) he returned home,
suffering very much that. night and for some days after.
He bore his sufferings with great fortitude, not allowing
an impatient expression to pass his lips and frequently
quoting some Scripture passage. At one time when
suffering intense pain, he repeated the lines :
"When o'er thy mercies, O, my God !
My rising soul surveys;
Enraptured with the view, I'm lost
In wonder, love and praise."
The physicians did what they could and thought for a
time his vital energies would carry him through, and after
he was in measure relieved from the intense suffering, we
still clung to the hope that he might again be raised up,
but it was ordered otherwise.
Second month p. Early in the morning father said he
wanted to go to sleep. The last words he uttered when
asked how he felt, were "very pleasant," but when the
doctor came and saw him about 9 o'clock he said father
would not wake again, and so it proved, and he passed
away about 5.15 in the afternoon. Our Baptist neighbors
were in their meeting for worship at the time and, hear
ing of the event, engaged in prayer for the family, thus
showing their good feeling.

80 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1868
The funeral on the 12th was a large one and character
ized by a deep solemnity, others than his immediate
family feeling they had lost a father.
Copy of a letter to Joseph Scattergood from some
Indians : Cold Spring, February 19, 1868.
Joseph Scattergood.
Respected Friend: Your letter of the 13th inst. is re
ceived last evening. It was read by Harrison Halftown
at the meeting at the Council House, announcing the sad
and afflicting news of the death of our beloved friend and
brother Joseph Elkinton.
We thought it was due us to express our sorrow, the
great loss we had met with, such a useful and valuable
man. We also are well aware that he loved the Indians.
It is true, a large part of his life was spent in endeavor
ing to do us good, and giving the best of his life to the
education of our people. When first school was estab
lished upon the Indian Settlement by our friends, the
Quakers, he, first one, remained among us for many
years, and devoted his abilities and his power to the
civilization and improvement of the Indians. We are
witnesses how earnestly he labored in order to induce
us to be good men, and we will cherish his counsels and
try to remember many words he has spoken to us, and
we also refresh our minds by his memory. But little
over two months since his last visit amongst us. He left

Age 38 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 81
with us a kind and wise counsel which will never be for
gotten. Signed in behalf of the meeting,
Harrison Halftown,
Owen Blacksnake.
Second month 23. Extract from letter to Charles
Rhoads :
The solemn occasion of the funeral of our honored
father is now past. May that which made our father
valiant for the Truth upon the earth abound in us, that
we also may know the Lord for ourselves and be par
takers of his preserving power.
I will add to this note an extract from a book of memo
randa found in father's desk and dated Fourth month 22,
1827, Tunesassa, N. Y. :
What a great advantage there is in being faithful to
Divine requirings, not only to the individual actually en
gaged in the performance of required service, to whom,
after having been favored to be found faithful, sweet
peace and quietness is the result, but also to the indi
viduals for whom the service is intended.
I have thought of the subject on account of an occur
rence that took place this morning. I was reading to my
friend R. S., and I felt a disposition to propose our going
to the river. It was acceded to by R. S., and we accord
ingly went and there found some individuals in a peculiar
circumstance, to whom we gave assistance.
When an individual has been sent with a message from

82 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1868
the Most High, there will be an individual to hear or
receive that message. How important it is then that we
endeavor to be found faithful to the requirings of the
Divine Master who will not require anything of us but
what he will enable us to perform. In love, farewell, J. S. E.
Third month 12. After father's death, being somewhat
run down in health, Dr. Wallace advised me to take a
sea voyage; but I had not felt easy to leave home, until
one morning, on awakening the words passed through
my mind, "The best thing thou canst do for thy family
is to put thyself in condition to provide for it." A few
hours after that my dear friend Joseph Walton came to
see me, saying he had been thinking of me and would
advise me to go to sea, and if I would go he would go
with me.
Having the approval of my family, we left Philadel
phia that evening for New York, where next day we took
passage on the steamer San Salvador for Savannah, en
route to Florida. Arrived in Savannah on the evening
of the 10th. Next morning walked through the market
and saw fresh shad, and early vegetables, a great con
trast to the streets full of snow and ice we left in Phila
delphia a few days before.
Left Savannah in the Lizzie Baker for Florida. There
was one woman on board of rather low character, who
several times read selections to those assembled in the

Age 38 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 83
cabin, but on one occasion, what she read seemed so licen
tious that either J. W. or I commented upon the character
of the readings and that it would be more respectful to
the company to have better reading. Whereupon I was
called upon to produce it and I proposed a portion of the
Scriptures. She declined to read that book, but Joseph
Walton read it to the apparent satisfaction of the com
pany. Third month 14. Had a grand sight of the breakers.
The mercury was about 86° at Jacksonville. Arrived at
Glen Cove, having enjoyed the balmy air sailing down the
St. John's River. The hotel was crowded, but the pro
prietor gave us his own room, where we stayed over
night, while the boat went farther down the river. We
took passage on its return in the morning. On arriving
at Savannah, we took quarters for the night, and during
the evening J. W. and I visited a large school for colored
adults, where each of us had religious service.
We visited divers places of interest in Savannah.
Third month 17. We took passage on the Pilot Boy
for Charleston and visited several places of interest,
amongst them the Orphan Asylum, and we went to see
the lot belonging to Friends under the care of our Meet
ing for Sufferings. Some live oaks near Charleston
have a grand appearance, covering a radius of seventy-
five feet of ground. J. W. said he had seen a grape vine
on the banks of the Ohio River forty-two inches in cir
cumference. Left Charleston Third month 20th, and on

84 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1868
our way north saw a remarkable deposit of shell on a
high bank, which much interested J. W., as also meeting
with a pupil of Agassiz, and they two spent considerable
time talking on scientific subjects. We arrived home on
Third month 24th.
Fourth month 2. Extract from a letter to Horatio G.
Cooper by J. S. E. :
Dear Friend: I hardly supposed it necessary to write
and tell our friends who have been in the way of coming
to this house during the time of our annual Assembly
that we wish them to continue so to do. Surely we have
the more need of the strength of their company under the
present dispensation, deprived as we are of the counsel
and watchful care of our beloved parents. It is natural
to draw a little nearer to those we feel to be interested
in us, and whom we have been in the way of greeting
with pleasure as they cross our threshold, and as our
Yearly Meeting draws nigh our desire is they may still
make our house their home.
Thy acceptable letter was grateful to my feelings.
Thy hope that we may live so near the Master as to say
He doeth all things well implies some attainment in re
ligious experience; yet it is our duty to strive for it,
especially when we consider that those who have filled
their measure of service and of suffering, known their
sins to have gone beforehand, are in adorable mercy ad
mitted into the rest which is prepared for the people of
God, amongst whom we would ourselves surely wish to

Age 38 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 85
obtain an inheritance. "Thy will be done," John Thorp
says, "is the highest anthem ever sung on earth," and it
is what our Saviour taught us to say or ask. Our dear
young friend, Clarkson Sheppard, in a recent letter uses
the language, "In all things give thanks, for this is the
will of God concerning you." So it would seem to be
our highest interest to learn in whatsoever state we are
to be content. — J. S. E.
• Fourth month 8. Our meeting was held in silence, but
a renewal of strength was experienced, for which I hope
I am grateful.
Fourth month 24. Being on the Indian Committee of
the Yearly Meeting in the place of my dear father, and
that committee holding a meeting at the close of the
Yearly Meeting, I was named on a sub-committee that
had been under appointment to visit the different tribes
in the State of New York, on which service my dear
father and Joseph Scattergood started last fall, but owing
to father's indisposition returned home.
Ebenezer Worth, Thomas Wistar and myself were
added to the committee. Ebenezer Worth left home on
the 27th, and spent a few weeks among the Indians at
Tunesassa, industriously laboring amongst them, visiting
in their families and helping with his advice and counsel
in various ways.
Having thought I had seen a service for myself among
the Indians and thinking it would be of great advantage
to be under E. W.'s fatherly care in the prosecution of

86 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1868
it, consulted two other Friends of the committee, who
encouraged me to go at this time.
Fifth month 5. Left home for Tunesassa. Trains
did not connect at Elmira, so had to wait for an evening
train to Salamanca. Took my seat beside an old man,
who, on my offering him a tract to read, said he had
taken one out of the depot, which I had left there. "The
Power of Divine Grace" — and which he wanted to take
to his daughter, who he said was the only one out of
seven children that had not religion. He had read the
tract and seemed much impressed by it.
Arrived at Salamanca about midnight, and next morn
ing proceeded to Tunesassa, where I arrived in time for
their meeting. About twelve or thirteen of the children
were present, all the scholars not having returned since
their vacation. They have been slow gathering on ac
count of many being away hunting pigeons near Olean.
The squabs not being quite ready to leave their nests,
great numbers of them were taken by cutting down the
trees. The squabs were mostly sent to the New York
market. In the afternoon Ebenezer Worth was going to
Oldtown, whereupon I joined him, and we visited James
Pierce, who was at home with two nice-looking children.
James is a preacher among the Indians and seemed like
a grave, well-behaved man. We visited a number of
families residing in the one neighborhood not far apart.
The Indians were all very glad to see Ebenezer Worth,
particularly the older ones, some of whom expressed a

Age 38 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 87
good feeling for father's memory. James Pierce had
gone to school to him. Returned to Tunesassa, and next
morning we started out to visit Owen Blacksnake, who
lives near the bridge on the opposite side of the river.
Owen seemed pleased to see me, said he remembered
father and mother having a child with them when they
left Tunesassa in 1831. We had a pleasant visit at his
house with his family. His son Robert had recently
married a nice-looking young woman, who had been a
scholar of my sister Sarah's.
We then went on our way to visit Isaac Halftown,
president of the Seneca nation, in whose house there
seemed to be a number of women and children, and that
evening we held a council. When coming to this council
I, for the first time, saw women carrying their pappooses
on their backs. E. W. had a good deal to say, declaring
his love for them and desired that they might give heed
to the Good Spirit, after which I also relieved my mind.
Isaac Halftown, the president, made some remarks,
stating that the Indians were trying to do as we said;
that in early times they made their living by hunting, but
now the game was all gone and they had to get their
living out of the ground. Formerly there was but one
yoke of oxen in the neighborhood, but now there were a
good many. In the evening we were annoyed by a man
under the influence of liquor, using profane language
and taking unbecoming freedom with E. W., taking his
hat off from him and talking about the Quakers and

88 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON

1868

trying to show off by repeating Scripture texts, but being
in no suitable condition to address, E. W. bore his im
pudence. The next morning at the breakfast table, the same man
being very profane, I felt drawn to speak. E. W. still
felt he was in no condition for it, but meeting him in
the stables, I addressed him on the subject of drink and
profanity and from his answer thought it was a mistake,
but it opened the way for E. W. to speak in such a man
ner that he was brought to tears and acknowledged the
evil of the practice and said he was obliged to us.
Fifth month p. Spent the remainder of the day visiting
Indian families in the neighborhood of Salamanca. At
one home, John Lewis seemed wonderfully amused at
hearing E. W. say that I was "Joseph Elkinton's boy,"
he having a lively recollection of father. Returned that
night to the school at Tunesassa, after making arrange
ments for a meeting at Red House on the llth.
Fifth month ii. Started out for the meeting at Red
House, and when we arrived the school was in session.
It shocked E. W. when I said to the children that they
might go home and tell their parents that Ebenezer
Worth was there and would meet with them at 1 o'clock.
E. W. exclaimed, "Oh ! Joseph !" But the children were
off, and the call was responded to by a large number of
the women and most of the children in the neighborhood,
but not an Indian man was present, they being off hunting
or rafting. Soon after we gathered together, E. W.

Age 38 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 89
turned to me and said, "Joseph, if thee has anything to
say, say on." I then gave expression to what was on
my mind, and afterward E. W. spoke to them in a very
affecting manner. They behaved in a becoming manner,
and I have been in many larger gatherings where there
seemed to be less life, the baptizing and cementing influ
ence being sensibly felt. We made two or three efforts
to close the meeting, E. W. telling the company that we
did not wish to hold them longer, and after a time spoke
again, but they still remained seated, and it was not until
E. W. and I rose and slowly walked up the road that they
gave way and followed us and clustered around us in a
way that was very touching. After visiting a few families
we returned to Tunesassa, and the next day I started
homeward, arriving on the evening of the 13th with a
pleasant retrospect of the trip.
Sixth month i. Letter to a friend:
Dear  : Feeling my heart clothed with a feeling
that it is not at our command, although I so lately saw
thee, yet whilst I feel the flowing of the pure gospel
stream, will take the pen to communicate that which has
arisen, hoping that it may touch a chord in thy heart.
And, dear  , this is what I want, that we should seek
the Lord God of our fathers, that He may be found of us ;
that we may know Him for ourselves, serving Him with
an undivided heart, knowing Jesus Christ to be our
Saviour, and our Deliverer, our Leader and our Teacher,
and Guide and Director in that high and holy way

90 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1868
which is cast for the ransomed and the redeemed of the
Lord to walk in. Do not let us be spending our life or
feeding on the failings or short-comings of others; no,
not any one. We know that unless we are under the
Divine influence ourselves we go astray, and have need
of that mercy that the dear Saviour breathed forth when
he was asked, "How often shall my brother trespass
against me and I forgive him ? until seven times seven ?"
Jesus said, "I say not until seven times, but until seventy
times seven." If we feed upon the faults of our brethren
there is danger of starving ourselves. Let it be our meat
and our drink to do the will of our Father who is in
heaven, reverently waiting upon Him more often than
the returning morning, for the knowledge of his will
concerning us, for the renewal of our strength.
Desiring thy prosperity in every way and that we may
both be clothed with that charity that is described by the
apostle. Farewell, in sincerity. Thy friend, Joseph S. Elkinton.
Sixth month 27. I have been on the Grand Jury the
past four weeks. We had a murder case on hand yester
day, in which I did not feel easy to take any part, for
which I was censured. Until the law is changed that
requires sentence of death on those committed I do not
want anything to do with them. I cannot answer for
other men's consciences, but will try to keep my hands
clear from the shedding of blood. We visited, in our

Age 38 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 91
official capacity, the Almshouse, where there are nearly
three thousand inmates, and I doubt there being found a
similar institution in better order, though there is con
siderable room for improvement in some respect on
account of being too much crowded in some of the de
partments, particularly in the colored nursery, but the
rooms generally and the good order prevailing were
admirable ; not a baby cried, not a child indulged in rude
behavior, not a sick person complained, and only a few
of the insane boisterous. There were about six hundred
in the insane department. In our presentment to the
Court we are appealing for more liberal accommodations
for this afflicted class. In one of the wards was an old
woman reading her Bible, and as we approached she
addressed us in such a way that made our company, of
about twenty in number, stand around with great respect,
most of them taking off their hats. Tears were shed as
the good old woman poured forth her very soul in praise
and gratitude unto the Lord for his blessings and mercies.
Sixth month 25. Our little son Thomas having been
quite sick and thinking trie sea air would be beneficial,
we took him to Atlantic City Sixth month 25, 1868.
However, he did not improve, but grew steadily worse,
and we sent for a consulting physician from Philadelphia,
who came down and stayed all night. Our little boy died
the First of Seventh month, aged seven months. The
funeral was held in Philadelphia, at my brother Thomas

92 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1868
Elkinton's, where quite a company of Friends showed
their sympathy by giving us their presence.
Letter from Malinda Elkinton to her sister :
Atlantic City, Seventh month 14, 1868.
My dear Sister : We received thy sympathizing letter.
I often feel there is much consolation in thinking of the
beloved happy state where my angel baby now is, so
safe from all the future trials and temptations that would
come to his pathway had he grown to manhood; yet
nature's feelings must keenly feel parting with such
precious little ones, the mortal body is dead to us and
tears of sorrow, mingled, I trust, with calm resignation,
I have felt to be allowable when I remember our blessed
Saviour wept. Just one week from the time we came
here we returned with the little lifeless form ; how sad we
felt. I rejoice his sufferings were not prolonged, as it
pleased Him who loaned him, to recall him with Him
and his to dwell. Second-day night, Third-day and night
he was very sick, his countenance changed so much: he
lay quiet for two hours before his little spirit left us,
which was a comfort. How lovely he looked even in
death; he was a darling baby. But it has pleased our
merciful and all-wise Creator to take him from us, and
may it be the means of drawing us nearer to Him that
we may be ready to join the loved ones that have gone
before. With much love, affectionately thy sister,
M. E.

Age 38 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 93
Eleventh month 20. Extract from a letter by J. S. E. :
I accepted thy letter as a little evidence of that secret
invisible fellowship, which is known to exist among the
living members of the family of Christ, as thy mind was
towards me when passing through a great dispensation,
wherein I was as one struck dumb with astonishment, in
the removal by death of a beloved father, so suddenly
from the stage of action. Thy letter was dated the day
of his death. Since then we have parted with one of our
little ones. Varied are the dispensations of Divine Provi
dence, who giveth and taketh away at his pleasure. But
as all that we have and all that we are, are of Him,
whether it be health, strength or life itself ; it is in place
to strive after that which enables us to say, "Not my will,
but thine be done." Our dear friend Clarkson Sheppard
wrote in a letter to me soon after father's death: "In
everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in
Christ Jesus concerning you." An attainment surely, and
as all things are possible unto Him with whom we have
to do, He can enable us, as we abide in Christ Jesus, to
glorify Him even in tribulation. In love, Joseph S. Elkinton.
Third month, 1869. Laid before the Monthly Meeting
to-day a concern to visit in the love of the Gospel a few
of the meetings composing Haddonfield Quarterly Meet
ing, and appoint some public meetings within its limits.
There were a few expressions of encouragement given,

94 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1869
which is a strength, the unity of Friends being precious.
Fifth month p. Attended a meeting appointed to be
held among the colored people of Snow Hill. As I
walked up to the platform I saw a person sitting there
and felt that man means us no good, and there seemed
a cloud over the assembly. After a little time the man
rose and said, "We are saved by practical righteousness,
as Jesus Christ was saved." It was very trying to me
to have such doctrine put before the people, as if Jesus
Christ, through whom we obtained salvation, needed
anything. I arose and said, "It is not by works of right
eousness which we have done, but according to his mercy
He saveth us by the washing of regeneration and renew
ing of the Holy Ghost, which He shed on us abundantly
through Jesus Christ our Saviour." The man made
another speech which I felt like answering, but those col
ored people were not called there to hear a controversy,
and I hesitated to rise, but at this time my companion,
Joseph Snowdon, came out with a noble testimony for
the Truth, saying he could not let that opportunity pass
without leaving his testimony to the Divinity of our Lord
Jesus Christ, and when he finished I stood up and went
on with my service in the meeting.
Fifth month. We have had at our house the company
of two English Friends, Daniel Pickard and John Sykes.
I have become much attached to D. P. He is gentle in
his manner, an unobtrusive, good-spirited Friend, yet
possessed of intellectual ability and quickness of discern-

Age 39 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 95
ment. He has spoken briefly and weightily in several of
our meetings and in some family opportunities.
Seventh month 13. Received a telegram informing us
of the death of sister Rachel Patterson, who has been
teaching school for a short time in Iowa.
She contracted measles from one of her pupils. The
disease ran its course very rapidly. I took a train for
Atlantic City to carry the sad intelligence of the death of
our dear sister Rachel to my dear wife, at that time
spending a few weeks at the shore. I had set my heart
on sister Rachel as having gifts and graces to be occupied
in the Church militant for a much longer period than was
vouchsafed. Of a truth the impressive sermon is preached
in her death that "Here we have no continuing city ;" and
it will be well for us, one and all, to seek that which is
eternal. Extract from a letter by J. S. E., dated Twelfth
month 6, 1869 :
I will relate a beautiful instance of silent preaching:
Our late beloved friend, Ellen Cozens, was an invalid
and, through great suffering from inflammatory rheuma
tism, was much distorted in her person, yet exceedingly
cheerful in her disposition. She had a little school, the
children collecting around her chair to receive instruction,
both spiritual and intellectual. One of the children had
an aunt with a very irritable temperament, she being like
wise much afflicted, but without the support of Divine
Grace. On being told by her niece how the Christian

96 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1869
virtues shone in her teacher and that a complaint was
never heard from her lips, the aunt was so astonished at
the seeming impossibility that it led to serious reflections
and a sincere seeking for that over which afflictions have
no power. She wrestled not in vain, for the Lord an
swered her and she became a changed woman.
Twelfth month 20. Left home on a business trip to
New York, expecting to stop off at New Brunswick to
see a manufacturer there, but as the train stopped at
Trenton a voice within me said, "Get off and go to meet
ing." Not knowing it was meeting day there, I felt in
clined to put the impression aside, but it was too strong,
so I went up into the town and seeing some Friends on
their way to meeting, I joined them. I had somewhat to
offer on the passage, "Blessed are the pure in heart for
they shall see God." Taking the cars about 3 P. M., it
was rather late in the day for business when I arrived in
New Brunswick, but I met the man I wanted to see just
returning home from a trip, so that I would have been
unable to have seen him earlier. He invited me to his
office and we had a very successful interview. I con
sidered it an exemplification of the Scripture declaration
that "All things shall work for good to them who love
the Lord."
Fourth month, 1870. Extract from a letter to M. V.
from J. S. E., dated Fourth month 26, 1870 :
Yearly Meeting is now over, and I trust in the main
was held to the honor of Truth. We issued a document

Age 40 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 97
bearing testimony against that spirit so rife amongst us,
of making the way to the kingdom so easy, without the
cross of our Lord Jesus Christ who did indeed bear our
sins, and died for us that we might live. Yet his right
eousness will not be imputed unto us until we are brought
down in the spirit of our minds and are willing to re
nounce the life we may have in this world, whether it be
in its pleasures or its treasures, and follow the Lamb
which is slain from the foundation of the world through
sufferings, baptisms and death itself (that is, of the
creaturely part in us) ere we can be raised up with Him
in the newness of life, having indeed and in truth known
of true repentance.
The report of the Indian Committee elicited consider
able interest in the Yearly Meeting. The subordinate
Meetings are recommended to raise a subscription to
increase the funds at the disposal of the Committee for
the furtherance of the concern which I trust will be re
sponded to. (After mentioning some who were afflicted,
J. S. E. writes) : A vast amount of suffering in this
world ! Well for us all that there is one who, in all our
afflictions, may be afflicted with us, and command the
angel of his presence for our support, that we may, if
rightly sought after, experience that over which affliction
• hath no power. It matters not whether we be in health
or in sickness, in life or in death, so that we are in our
proper places and whilst in the body the Lord's will be
wrought in, through and by us, as it most surely will be

98 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1870
when we leave the body, if through his love and mercy
and power and our co-operating therewith, our peace is
made, and we permitted to stand with acceptance before
the judgment seat of Christ and hear the welcome lan
guage, "Thou has been faithful over a few things, enter
thou into the joy of thy Lord," and I trust a foretaste of
this shall be known on this side of the river, for surely
the song of the ransomed and redeemed is to be learned
in this state of being, even the song of Moses and the
Lamb. "Great and marvelous are thy works, Lord God
Almighty; just and true are all thy ways Thou King of
Saints." Farewell, thy Cousin,
J. S. E.
Fifth month 14. Last First-day (8th) an almost, if
not entirely unprecedented hailstorm did great damage in
this part of the country, to the injury of both man and
beast exposed thereto. Some loss of life and a vast
amount of glass broken, in addition to vegetation being
much destroyed in places. Hailstones were reported
from five to eleven inches in circumference. One went
through our parlor window with a force that drove the
glass across the room.
Taken from a letter written by J. S. E., Twelfth
month 26, 1870 :
I have been looking over a letter, written to me by my
father while he was traveling with William c-ms in
Iowa, from which I will copy an extract: "Be faithful,
my dear son, to the manifested requisitions of the good

Age 40 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 99
spirit concerning thee, and all other things will then work
right. I believe thou hast been concerned so to do, and
I have no doubt thou hast had thy reward in the midst
(as it were) of thy anxieties which at times I expect thou
hast felt not a few. Go on, love the Lord thy God with
all thy heart, with all thy soul, might and strength. Let
him have the first place in thy heart, and all things will
then work for thy good." (Ninth month 13, 1851.) The
memory of such a counsellor is indeed precious; but we
cannot always have them to lean upon; they must be
allowed to pass on to their eternal rest, and we, following
after, must endeavor to draw our supplies from the in
exhaustible Fountain of which they partook, and if hap
pily found in the nurture and admonition of the Lord
ourselves, be a little qualified to exert an influence in
that direction to the young and rising generation, whom
to see rightly brought under religious exercise would
gladden our hearts more than the increase of corn, wine
or oil. And as the Lord hath never despised the wrest
lings for his blessings, let us preserve both on our own
accounts and those near and dear to us.
Farewell in love,
Joseph S. Elkinton.
First month 22, 1871. Went with my friend, William
U. Ditzler, to Middletown Meeting, which he attended
in the course of a religious visit, holding public meetings
within the limits of Philadelphia and Concord Quarterly
Meetings. In the morning meeting, I had rather an open

100 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1871
time, and there was that there that was near the best life,
both in the older and middle-aged, to whom the language
of encouragement was held forth, and an invitation given
to those who had not sufficiently yielded themselves unto
the service of the King of Kings, that they might yet close
in with the offers of mercy still extended. ... At the
public meeting in the afternoon the house was pretty
well filled, particularly on the women's side, and a good
degree of solemnity overspread. William and I both were
engaged in testimony, and William in supplication. The
importance of presenting our bodies as living sacrifices
was on our minds, and it seemed as if many had come
together with their hearts too little prepared to offer
acceptable worship, but I trust Truth was in dominion.
In the evening a public meeting was held with the
colored people in their Meeting-house, which was full.
Much counsel seemed to flow, William, Thomas Yarnall
and myself all endeavoring to relieve our minds. The
people were quiet and attentive.
First month 25. Our Monthly Meeting to-day. The
first meeting was a favored season. After the answering
of the queries, Dr. Charles Evans spoke at some length
and in an emphatic manner on the importance of our
individually applying the queries to ourselves that we
might be concerned to live up to the spirit of them.
First month 25. Extract from a letter to a sister
(about to be married) :
A true union in the marriage covenant is an unspeak-

Age 41 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 101
able blessing where there is one heart and one mind,
they twain becoming one flesh and one another's joy
and rejoicing in Him who alone can form a true union,
qualifying a true helpmeet, giving a sympathy of interest
and feeling in those things which pertain to our highest
interests. . . . — J. S. E.
Fourth month 3. Attended the Select School on the
boys' side, as a member of the Committee on Religious
Instruction. The Scripture and Catechism lessons were
satisfactorily recited, and I requested to have the two
schools collected, the Primary School to come down to
the others, while I improved an opportunity not only to
express the comfort I felt to see that the children had
done their part so well in committing their lessons to
memory, but also to express the desire that they might
seek to draw nigh unto Him of whom the Scriptures did
so abundantly testify, and the breathing of my spirit was
that they might come up in a knowledge of our principles
and testimonies; and I enlarged particularly on the im
portance of keeping to simplicity and truthfulness in
language and behavior in accordance with the Scripture
declaration, "I will turn to the people a pure language."
Third month 10, 1871.
Abram and Esther Weeks,
Dear Friends : The religion of the present day is too
much that of education and tradition without enough of
those heart cleansings and baptisms, and conflicts of
spirit, and men knowing their own hearts to be changed

102 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1871
before they try to change the hearts of others. I think
the Journal of William Evans gives evidence of his
preparation for the ministry, and his observations on
many points are instructive, and I have taken pleasure
in presenting one to you, trusting it may prove acceptable
reading. It being our custom to gather the family after
tea for reading, we took up this evening the observations
concerning Hannah Gibbons, which are so in accordance
with my own views and which impressed my mind on
taking up the pen and commenting on our little book of
sketches, that I will cut out the article and enclose it
Some tell us in these days that their salvation is secure
and their peace surely made, that if at any time the
thread of their life were cut, they are assured all is well,
which state of unwholesomeness is, in my apprehension,
a fearful one. . . .
Last Seventh-day our valued friend, Moses Comfort,
an elder of Fallsington, was buried; a prince in Israel,
one who surely possessed the ornament of a meek and
quiet spirit, as well as the spirit of discernment. Would
that more such were raised up as watchmen on the walls
of our Zion, who though it might be in secret, would still
cry unto the living God and give him no rest until Zion
be established and Jerusalem made the praise of the
whole earth. Samuel Bettle and William U. Ditzler are
continuing their labors in the towns and manufacturing
districts. Three or four public meetings this week, and
next First-day in the neighborhood of Wilmington. If

Age 41 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 103
the knowledge of the Lord is but increased by the run
ning to and fro, it will indeed be cause of rejoicing. J. S. E.
Fourth month 21. After an hour of deep inward exer
cise in Meeting, I stood forth and held up to view the
doctrine that we were reconciled by the death of Christ,
and saved by his life, even by the Living Word abiding
in us and giving us dominion over all uncleanness, even
the victory over ourselves and an ability to serve God
aright. Ninth month 20. On the afternoon of the 18th was
held a meeting of the Indian Committee, one of the most
interesting I have attended. An able written report was
produced of the visit of the sub-committee to see to the
division of the Cornplanter estate among his heirs.
Thomas Wistar said there had been nothing in his inter
course with the Indians during the past forty years which
afforded so much satisfaction as the accomplishment of
this matter, and he rejoiced that he had lived to see it
accomplished. The following is abridged from an account of an inter
view with a clergyman J. S. E. met on the cars, traveling
from Trenton to Jersey City in the summer or fall of
1871: The clergyman first addressed J. S. E. by asking what
was the important news of the day. J. S. E. adverted
to the fighting going on between the German and French
armies and that it was calculated to sadden the heart of

104 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1871
all Christians as being contrary to the Christian religion
to be so engaged in strife and violence. When the query
was put to J. S. E. whether he believed the time would
come when men would cease to resent injuries or whether
it were possible for man to attain that state, J. S. E.
responded that it was the work and office of the Gospel
of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring men to this, and it
certainly would be brought about, individually, as men
yielded to the influences of his spirit and truth, a mani
festation of which was given to all, and which would, in
the first place, take away the occasion of all wars and
fightings, being a spirit of love and not of hatred, and
giving no offense. The clergyman then quoted the moral
law, the law of Moses, "an eye for an eye," "a tooth for
a tooth," and also the command, as he called it, that
"Who so sheds man's blood, by man shall his blood be
shed," which latter J. S. E. said he would accept more as
a prophecy than as a command, and which we saw ever
being carried out by those who took the sword perishing
by the sword, but to carry out as a command the taking
of life literally would soon lead into an absurdity, as the
world would be depopulated. After discoursing some
what further on that subject, he said "we have one sub
ject on which we have you Quakers, and that is on bap
tism, for there were two positive commands 'Go ye
therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the
name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost' " J. S. E.
replied that he would accept that as a command, believing

Age 41 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 105
it to be such; but as the Bible did not say baptize with
water, he would have it taken as it did say, in the name of
the Father, Son, etc., which he received as being in his
spirit and power, living presence, etc., into which all must
be brought themselves before they can ever be instru
mental in bringing others into it, even as none can baptize
with water without first going into that element them
selves." And appealing to the clergyman by way of illus
tration, he said: "Thou are going to New York, and if
thou art a man of influence thou wilt (it may be insensi
bly to thyself) assuredly bring all those thou art in contact
with, in some measure, into the same spirit wherewith
thou thyself art actuated, if in an evil spirit thou wilt
influence others to evil, but if under the influence of the
Holy Spirit thyself, so wilt thou baptize others by thy
example and conversation into the same." Some remarks
on his part brought forth the following: "If thou hadst
been one with others who had strayed from the right
path, and through the mercy of God by the strivings of
his spirit brought into trouble of mind therefor, yea
sorrow of soul because of a sense of thy lost and un
done condition with something of a sight of sins being
set in order, and under this condemnation a living cry
being raised for a Saviour, and this being as from the
depths of the soul, and the Lord in his mercy giving ear
thereto and in his own time causing the Saviour to appear
by raising up a little hope for the forgiveness of sins
through repentance, and when in answer to the bleat-

106 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1871
ing of the soul, a little sense of this forgiveness being
received, what then did we care for anything outward or
what need had we further of any outward ordinance?
And there being none, let us bless the name of our
Father in Heaven and be clothed more with a spirit of
thankfulness in that God hath sent his beloved Son into
the world and into our hearts."
To all this the clergyman said he believed he under
stood me, though he did not see with me. He next
brought up the subject of the ministry, saying "I suppose
from the ease in bringing up Scripture, you are a min
ister?" and, querying if it were not so, J. S. E. replied:
"I once heard of a Friend being asked that question, and
he replied, 'a very small one.' " He then said, "Suppose
you wanted to hold a meeting in a town, would you not
read up some sermons beforehand as being thereby the
better prepared for the people?" J. S. E. responded: "We
had best look at the motive in calling the people together ;
if it were to please the people, then we might perhaps
study up how to do it, but if our object was to unite with
them in reverential worship, the more quiet and inward
in Spirit and emptied of all thoughts of external things,
the more likely would we be to get into a communion of
Spirit, and if the Lord wished to use one of the company
through whom to communicate his will by a message, He
knowing all things and what most the congregation stood
in need of, could in accordance therewith fill the instru
ment and commission him to deliver that wherewith he

Age 41 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 107
was intrusted, which might be supposed to be better than
any other gathered material, however well it might have
been adapted to another occasion or company when pre
viously delivered, even supposing it to have been author
ized." This subject being thus treated on, the last one taken
up was that of inter-marrying with other religious so
cieties, which the clergyman introduced by saying, "You
disown your members who marry out of your Society:"
to which I replied, "That was a point on which we were
judged considerably and I did not expect to satisfy him
about it, but in the neighborhood where I lived it was
true we did disown them if we failed to convince their
understanding of the inconsistency or disadvantage of the
thing, but in other neighborhoods they were not so strict
and let them slip. But I would endeavor to give him a
reason for our actions on this matter. Believing as we
did that our mission as a religious Society was to bear
testimony before the world to the spirituality of the
Gospel dispensation and that spiritual-mindedness be
comes us and being concerned to draw into an inward
waiting state and frame of mind, the doctrines of the
Gospel would be opened and the testimony springing from
them would be observed in the life and liveliness which
would be very much hindered by being connected with a
companion in life whose faith was different and to whom
the principles of the everlasting truth had not been thus
made clear, and that as it was designed that those who

108 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1871
married were to be one in spirit, the going together of
those of different faith must be to the lowering of the
standard, and the children of such would, in all probabil
ity, be brought up, some with the father and some with
the mother, or what would be most likely, without much
regard for religion or respect for religious characters,
having heard so much criticism." To this the clergyman
said, "We do not judge you so much as you think, for we
see the disadvantage of these things," and he wished
they would make a rule of discipline to put a stop to
it. As this was unexpected to me, I thought it a good
stopping place, and having occupied nearly all the time
in passing from Trenton to Jersey City, conversing, we
brought it to a close.

CHAPTER IV.
Special Providences.
Fourth month 18, 1872. After the death of Wesley
Meeker, an employee in the factory, who died of blood
poisoning resulting from getting a finger crushed in the
machinery, I had all the men in the factory called to
gether and spoke of the trial it was to me that one of
their number, whilst assisting me in obtaining a liveli
hood, should lose his own life. I expressed a desire for
them to give heed to any impressions they might be
favored with by way of restraint, which if attended to
might be a means of preservation, and I told them of two
circumstances in my own experience as illustrations of
what I meant to convey. One was that when making
for a train to Atlantic City one summer I had a watch
word given me to "take the next train," which I did not
want to do, as it might prevent me from getting to the
shore in time for a bath in the surf that afternoon, so
walked on and felt the watchword again, "take the next
train," which I again put aside. As the day was sultry
in the city, I felt anxious to get to the shore, but on
receiving the watchword the third time, "take the next
train," I gave heed and did so, and found later that the
previous train on which I had intended to have gone, had
been wrecked a little beyond Haddonfield. After it left
Camden a heavy shower came on and washed away the
foundation of the bridge; several lives were lost in con-
109

110 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1872
sequence of the wreck. I also stated that on one occasion
I was standing under the hatchway in the Second street
factory with one of my little boys, and by a singular
providence was impressed to leave the spot, just in time
to avoid being crushed by a considerable amount of goods
which fell through the hatchway from above.
As the men stood around me I was drawn to engage
in prayer on our behalf, that we might know of the
preserving power and in mercy be favored from time to
time with the monitions of the Good Spirit. It was a
solemn occasion and one that I trust will hold a place
in our memories.
At the grave of Wesley Meeker one of the pall-bearers
acted as chaplain, and I thought I never heard anything
spoken at the graveside with more feeling than he ex
hibited, but I felt that death was very near to some one
amongst us standing there, as if one were about to step
into the grave, and I was afraid to express my thoughts
lest I should be supposed to be laboring under some
aberration of mind. I told my wife how I felt on my
return home, and in the course of ten days the man who
read the funeral services died. On his return home from
the funeral of Wesley Meeker he said to his wife that
he would never go out of his house again alive, which
proved to be the case, as he had ruptured a blood-vessel,
probably from the strain in carrying or lifting the coffin.
Seventh month 2. Came to Stroudsburg with my wife
and our two younger boys.

Age 42 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 111
Seventh month 5. Occupied some of my time reading
in my father's diary of some of his exercises at the
opening of the school at Tunesassa, which was begun
with a very small number and increased to seventeen or
twenty occasionally, and they were visited by Indian men
and women who offered such advice and counsel to the
children as tended to uphold father's hands. Father was
often brought into low places and frequent breathing for
help and ability to keep the mastery over himself in time
of trial, and often was he put to the test by the perverse-
ness of the children about him, but his memorandums
show that he was concerned to draw near to the Fountain
of all good, whereby he was strengthened to run the race
set before him.
Seventh month 8. I left Stroudsburg with our son
William and went to New York, passing through a moun
tainous country. The weather in New York was oppres
sively warm and difficult to endure. We took the steamer
Franconia for Portland, being joined by J. G. H. and
his brother.
Seventh month 10. Arrived at Portland, having had a
smooth passage. Remained in the vicinity of Portland
about five days, visiting Cushing Island, North Berwick
Meeting, etc.
Seventh month 15. We took steamer to St. Johns, and
on the seventeenth left St. Johns for Halifax.
St. Johns, Seventh month 17, 1872.
Dear Brother: We stayed at Cushing Island till

112 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1872
Sixth-day afternoon, intending to sail up the coast as far
as Mt. Desert that night, but it looked so dark and dismal
and threatening a heavy storm, we drew back, thinking
it would not be nice to be driven on some rocks, or
wrecked on some island, so took lodgings at a hotel until
next morning. No boat going or coming this way until
Second-day night, we went over to Berwick and stayed
at William Hill's, where we were entertained with great
hospitality. I got into some business ; son William called
it visiting families. Sister S. has knowingly said there
is no telling what I am at and brother T. has his own
notions of it. We came on here, arriving yesterday morn
ing. Visited the soap factory of the place where they say
our silicate suits them better than any other. English is
sold here. We are now started for Halifax, where we
hope to arrive this evening.
Affectionately, thy brother, J. S. E.
Seventh month 24. Embarked on the steamer Fal
mouth for Portland, and heard from one of the pas
sengers of the loss of the steamer New England, about
fifteen miles from Eastport on the rocks, day before
yesterday. This was the vessel in which we sailed abotit
a week previously from Portland to St. Johns, and whilst
passing near the place where the boat afterward struck,
my spirit was greatly exercised for fear of disaster, yet
I felt a secret watchword that she would go through
safely this time. A great amount of drinking was allowed
on board, and what was very noticeable, there was no

Age 42 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 113
Bible to be seen, but instead were books of a pernicious
character lying on the cabin table, such as were calculated
to undermine faith in the Christian religion.
Seventh month 26. Came from Portland to Boston.
Visited the State House and had a view of Harvard Col
lege. Left Boston and came by way of Fall River, taking
steamer Bristol for New York.
Eighth month 31. Seated in my office at the factory
I read in the morning paper the notice of the funeral of
W. P. Walton, to be buried in Friends' old burying
ground at Darby, and it took a strong hold on my mind
so that it was not easy to get from under it. I felt
restrained, however, from going to the residence, so went
in my own conveyance to the grave, where I awaited the
arrival of the funeral company. I was engaged at the
graveside in an earnest exhortation to the import that
some had need to tremble as one after another was taken
from amongst us and that we should all have to stand
before the judgment seat of Christ to give account of
our deeds. I pleaded with the young to mind the day of
their visitation. After the opportunity, a religious man
among the Baptists stepped up to me and said, "I thank
God that he gave you courage to speak as you did, for I
know it was appropriate."*

*Some months after this I was riding in the cars when a
notable person, who was at that funeral, being in the same car,
said to me : "That service at  's funeral we could have
borne very well if you had kept that Jesus out of it." I replied

114 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1872
Ninth month 3.
Dear Brother and Sister: Although my M. has
doubtless in her letter given some evidence of our feel
ings of sympathy with you in the bereavement for your
youngest, yet I thought I would add a little and respond
to the remarks in one of your letters that the little ones
had a stronger hold than we knew of until they were
taken away. It is indeed like parting with a part of one's
self. Life's journey is compassed about with its trials
and experiences. One thing after another overtakes us,
doubtless designed to deepen us and drive us home to
that which is immutable, for we see that our hold on all,
or any, created things, however dear, is but at the pleasure
of the Almighty Creator, Provider and Disposer, whose
we are, and all that we have, who giveth and taketh at his
pleasure, and none durst say to Him, "What doest thou ?"
If there is any one gift more than another to be desired,
it seems to me to be that attainment wherein we can adopt
the sentiment that He doeth all things well, and in every
thing give thanks. . . .
There is one consolation respecting the little ones who
may be taken in their innocency and infancy — they are
that Jesus was all I had to preach. This remark accounted for
the feeling of restraint I had about going to the residence of the
deceased, where I believe were gathered together a good many
learned men as to the learning of this world, but who were dis
believers in the Divinity of our Lord Jesus Christ and lacking
that knowledge to which there is nothing that can be compared.

Age 42 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 115
spared the temptations incident to a lengthened journey,
and consequently their parents are spared the anxieties
lest they be overcome therewith. Oh, the snares and the
stratagems that beset the pathway and the sufferings, too,
of a lengthened-out course; still, for the watchful, obe
dient children, there is a way and a power over all.
This is the anniversary of our wedding day — sixteen
years since your sister and I stood side by side in the
Meeting-house on the hill at Somerton and entered into
the marriage covenant, in which time we have had some
exercises, nevertheless the Divine blessing has not been
withheld and thankfulness I trust, does cover our spirits
under a sense of the mercies that have been vouchsafed.
Of the sixty-three who signed the marriage certificate,
fifteen have departed this life, some of them we have
good reason to believe with a well-grounded hope of a
glorious immortality, having honestly endeavored to serve
their generation according to the Divine will. Will not
He, who visited them with the day-spring from on high ;
who tendered and contrited their spirits in early life ; who
humbled them and brought them under the sanctifying in
fluence of his grace ; who made them instruments for the
promotion of his cause; who upheld them, supported
them and enabled them to lay their heads in peace, be
with the survivors? Surely, He is no respecter of per
sons, and those who submit to the forming and fash
ioning hand will be enabled to fill up their measure of
service and sufferings and receive the welcome greeting,

116 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1872
"Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into
the joy of thy Lord."— J. S. E.
Joseph S. Elkinton was drawn as a juror in the Quarter
Sessions Court of Philadelphia, and notified to appear
Ninth month 23, 1872.
Having previously been appointed upon an important
committee of his religious Society, which met at the same
hour, he requested his brother Thomas to appear for him
and excuse his absence for a few hours.
While T. E. was seated in court, waiting for an oppor
tunity, an officer of the court requested him to be kind
enough to remove his hat, to which T. E. replied, "1 am
a Friend," which was apparently satisfactory, as the
officer said no more. T. E. thought the matter was ended
and hearing the judge speaking to him, supposed he was
ready for his business, and stepped to the bar for the
purpose of explaining his errand in court, but found to
his surprise that the judge was speaking about his hat.
The first words of the judge were not heard by him, but
the words following were : "I don't care what the excuse
it, it is not respectful." Either just before the judge
spoke or simultaneously T. E. repeated to another officer
at the bar, "I am a Friend." When the judge had fin
ished, T. E. remained standing without moving, and the
officer gently removed his hat. The hat being now in
possession of the court, T. E. reflected that it was there
by their own action without any connivance of his, and he
then sat down. At a suitable time afterward the excuse

Age 42 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 117
of J. S. E.'s temporary absence was given and was satis
factory to the judge. J. S. E. appeared about 12 o'clock
and reported to the clerk, but the court was about to
adjourn and he was thereby released for the day.
Ninth month 24. J. S. E. attended court about the
usual time without knowing what had transpired con
cerning his brother the previous day. Soon after the
opening of the court an officer told him that the judge
requested him to take off his hat, to which request he
quietly shook his head in the negative, and the officer
turned toward the judge, when J. S. E. thought it would
be well to send a messenger to the judge, that it was not
out of disrespect to the court, with further explanation
on the subject, but on beginning to explain the officer
referred him to the judge, whom J. S. E. addressed,
stating that it was not out of disrespect to the court, but
that on entering a place of worship he did not think it
necessary to take off his hat, he did not see why he
should there; to which the judge replied that "religious
societies were not to come there to set up their conscien
tious scruples and that if he did not take off his hat, it
would be taken off." J. S. E. said he was aware of no
law that required him to take off his hat, and if there
was he could not do it. The judge then said he knew
enough of the rules of propriety and that men were to
make a respectable appearance in court. J. S. E., feeling
that he was only required to take off his hat in time of
public prayer or while speaking as a minister, took his

118 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1872
seat without complying with the request of the judge, and
shortly after an officer came and removed his hat and
put it on the reporters' desk, to which J. S. E. made no
resistance, but kept his seat for perhaps an hour and a
half, when the same officer came to him, saying that the
judge excused him from serving as a juror, whereupon
he retired from the court.
Ninth month 21. At a metting of the Yearly Meeting's
Committee we were covered with a solemnity under
which we sat a considerable time, when various remarks
were made regarding the weightiness of the concern.
None of the sub-committee could say they had finished
the service assigned them and were continued. Charles
Evans made some remarks to the import that we were
just beginning to get the harness on and would find it a
weighty service ere we had accomplished the object of
our appointment and he encouraged Friends to move
freely around among the meetings and obtain knowledge
of their conditions, particularly to attend the Quarterly
Meetings. Tenth month 7. Attended the Quarterly Meeting's
Committee in reference to the situation at Arch Street
Meeting. After considerable expression of sentiment, it
was concluded to appoint a sub-committee to take legal
opinion as to whether any of the trust funds belonging
to the Monthly Meeting would become void if any two
of the meetings were joined together, it being a prevail
ing feeling that it would most conduce to the best in-

Age 42 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 119
terest of Society for the Southern District Monthly Meet
ing to be joined to Philadelphia Monthly Meeting, since
a large number of its members now resided within the
limits of that meeting. Eleventh month 13, 1872.
Dear Friend, Clarkson Sheppard: Returning home
this evening, I find thy acceptable letter proposing week
after next for the South Delaware trip, which would suit
me as well as any time, but my M. does not like the idea
of my being away from the last Monthly Meeting of
Friends of Philadelphia for the Southern District, to be
held on the 27th inst, and as it is likely a good many
tears will be shed on that occasion, I did not know but
that I would want to be there too, and maybe help a little
at that. But inasmuch as yesterday I expressed my satis
faction with the proposed change without thinking of our
Monthly Meeting, I rather think I will not break ranks if
that is your time ; perhaps I might say something I would
be sorry for if I stayed at home.
There seems to be an improvement in the condition of
the horses generally. A stable not far from here reports
seven horses dead, valued at $2,700. We are truly in
a miserable condition about getting our hauling done.
We have imported a yoke of oxen and a countryman
from Delaware County, which, with Ephraim's* super-

*Ephraim Smith acted most wisely and successfully, for a
period of forty years, as superintendent of the soap and chemical
works of Joseph S. and Thomas Elkinton, located in the southern

120 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1872
intendence, are expected to do something, although one
of our little boys says, "They look as if they were out of
their element." Our street-car traffic is generally sus
pended, and some goods are pulled about the street by
hand. Eleventh month 27. Our Monthly Meeting was held
at Orange street for the last time, and it seemed very
like a funeral. Samuel Bettle was there and first broke
silence, speaking of the constraining influence of the love
of Christ. Elizabeth Allen brought up the conversation
of our Saviour with the two disciples as they walked to
Emmaus after the resurrection. In the second meeting
we transacted the regular business, read the minute of
the Quarterly Meeting, discontinuing our Monthly Meet
ing and directed our committees to keep a care over their
respective objects until Philadelphia Monthly Meeting
appointed others for that purpose.
Charles Evans spoke about the change in our position,
how in days past our galleries were filled, and that of
the power being the same. On the whole, our hearts
were very sad. The concluding minute was read and we
parted to hold no more Fourth-day meetings. The con
clusion of the Quarterly Meeting was that the Monthly
Meeting for Friends of the Southern District is to be
joined to the Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadel-
section of the city. During this time there was no suggestion of
a strike or any so-called "labor" trouble between the concern and
its employees.

Age 42 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 121
phia. The Arch Street Meeting House is to be closed
on First-days after the first First-day in Twelfth month,
and that the joint meetings assemble on First-days in
mornings and afternoons at Orange Street Meeting
House and on Fifth-days at Arch Street.
Twelfth month. Understood from those who attended
Arch Street Meeting that in the second meeting after
the regular business was transacted the minute of the
Quarterly Meeting in reference to the union of the two
meetings was read. Remarks were made of the satis
faction felt in seeing some of the members of the South
ern District there, and they desired that the members of
that meeting would take their usual seats, and they con
cluded to adjourn the Monthly Meeting till the close of
the meeting for worship the next Fifth-day, so as to have
the co-operation of the late Southern District Meeting
more generally and have committees appointed to bring
forward the names for officers and those to serve on
committees for the Monthly Meeting.
Twelfth month 5. Attended the mid-week meeting at
Arch street, the first held since the union of the two
meetings. In the second meeting, nominating commit
tees were appointed to bring forward names for Elder,
for Overseers, for Select School Committee, for Prop
erty Trustees, etc. The committee to have charge of
"Black People and Their Descendants," lately under
appointment by the Southern District, was continued, and
the Committee for the Poor and on Interments, and some

122 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1873
other services, were added to like committees now under
appointment. Third month 12, 1873. Last week our Indian Com
mittee was suddenly called together on account of being
informed of the scheme for depriving the Seneca Indians
of 15,000 acres of land, and by secret work with Con
gressmen a bill was actually passed by the Houses of
Congress, but Joseph Scattergood was hurried, by a tele
gram from the President, down to Washington with our
plea for the President to withhold his signature. He
(J. S.) met the Cabinet in the President's room in the
Capitol, just one hour before the inauguration, and
Joseph Scattergood pleaded the cause of the Indian so
ably that the President withheld his signature, to the
chagrin of some of the Congressmen.
Fifth month 29. A good meeting. I returned my
minute in the second meeting and the service, into which
I had entered in visiting families and members of
Stroudsburg, and the appointed meeting with the colored
people afford me comfort in the retrospect. John S.
Comfort was a true helpmeet in this engagement. It
was decided in Monthly Meeting to build a Meeting
House in West Philadelphia.
Sixth month 17. To-day I attended the funeral of
David Farrell, who lived at Ninth and Mifflin streets,
and the ground on which our works are located on the
opposite side of the street was a part of his farm. The
sale of his ground had placed him in easy circumstances,

Age 43 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 123
but he continued to live in the neighborhood and mani
fested much interest in brother Thomas and myself, not
unf requently coming over into the office and sitting down
for a little pleasant conversation. At one time he pro
posed renting me his house, stable and a yard, in which
were about one hundred trees, for $300 a year if I would
go and reside there, but I concluded it was best not to
take my family down there.
Sixth month 23. Removed, to 331 South Fifth street.
We had during the past week been moving some of our
goods, but could not finish because of my Malinda's in
ability to be moved, she having been sick the past week.
Whilst at the factory about 11 A. M. I felt an impression
to go home to 783 South Second street, and when I ar
rived there, M. told me she thought she could go, so I
quickly obtained a conveyance and had her taken to 331
South Fifth street, which was soon followed by having
the remainder of our goods brought there later.
After reaching our new residence, Malinda seemed
better for a few days, but soon broke down again in
health and suffered greatly; but by the Seventh month
recuperated sufficiently to go to Isaac Jones', at Consho-
hocken, to board during the Seventh and Eighth months.
Eighth month 14. Attended Salem Quarterly Meeting,
held at Woodbury. Dined at William Tatum's and had
a religious opportunity with his family, a young man
being present who had left the Roman Catholics. I had
been particularly impressed to go to this place to dine,

124 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1873
and learning at the dinner table that it was the prospect
for Hannah Tatum's brother, Davis Leeds and another
young man, to start off for the shore that afternoon, I
felt disappointed and said to Davis, "I came to see thee,
I wish thou would stay at home," and then rather re
called it by adding, "but I do not know that I ought to
interfere with or stop your plans." As they started after
dinner, I stepped up to the carriage and simply said,
"Don't get drowned." But on arriving at the shore they
went into the water and Davis Leeds was drowned.
From a letter dated Twelfth month, 1873 : When out
with the Yearly Meeting's Committee our friend seems
to want to do what he can to help the good cause; he
assists those who are engaged in the service, distributes
the writings of Friends with an interest, and I hope his
almsdeeds and prayers may be held in remembrance. I
was glad to find R.'s mind drawn to this house, and we
all spent the evening pleasantly together. R. being much
of a lady in her manners, she moved easily among the
children, and yet she was very plain in speaking of the
full surrender and the way of the cross. I was glad she
could do it, for I hardly knew how to say much about
the seamless garment, and then go upstairs to bed and
sleep under silk covers stuffed with down.
There is a range of experience in traveling, but there
was a great contrast between this house, heated all over
by furnaces and furnished luxuriously, and a place where
Clarkson Sheppard and I lodged a year ago, where one

Age 43 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 125
cold night we were put in a cold room that looked and
felt as if it had not been slept in for a year. I was afraid
to ask for more covers for fear there were none, and so
gathered up all the old dresses hanging about and put
out coats on top, making the best of things, but not much
sleep came, and I shook until within an hour of getting
up time, with a rat or two for company, which kept much
of the time on my side of the bed. C. S. had his amuse
ment at my management of the case. Now I will go back
to the Meeting at Downingtown, which, if we did not see
work, it is because we are such little children we do not
know anything of what work is ; between undertaking to
handle the subjects of Water Baptism, the Sacraments,
high living, settling down in our blessings, etc., there was
one tired person, if not more.
Twelfth month 28. The following is a copy of the
minute granted me at a time my mind was exercised on
behalf of the children to such a degree that I believed it
right to open a concern on the subject before our Monthly
Meeting, and having held a meeting at Germantown,
largely attended by the children; also one at Frankford,
I felt relieved in the performance of the service. Al
though not an extensive concern, yet it has been one that
has brought me under much feeling, as I would much
prefer, if I could choose my own time, leaving such meet
ings until I could see my own children pass the slippery
paths of youth. But that I may not live to see, or even
so, I might not have the same freshness of feeling with

126 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1873
and for the children or sympathy with them in the pecu
liar temptations incident to their time of life.
At a Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadelphia held
Twelfth month 28, 1873 :
Our beloved friend Joseph S. Elkinton informed this Meeting
of a prospect he had of apprehended duty to appoint one or more
meetings for the children of Friends and their immediate care
takers, residing within the limits of Frankford Monthly Meeting.
Upon considering the subject, this meeting liberates him to attend
thereto, as Truth may open the way, he being a minister in unity
with us. A copy of this minute is directed to be furnished to
him, signed on our behalf. Extracted from the minutes.
George J. Scattergood, Clerk.
Horatio C. Wood,
Correspondent.
Third month 3, 1874. Made an arrangement with
Amelia Leeds for the occupancy of her house at West-
field during the summer.
Fourth month 17. The Yearly Meeting's Committee
met this afternoon and adopted a report to the Yearly
Meeting, which was ably drawn up, and a good savor
attended the reading of it. It contains a suggestion for
a release, and a comfortable feeling prevailed as we
parted, after being bound together in a service which
had been attended with a good deal of labor, the tendency
of which had been to bind us together.
Twelfth month. I have for years past felt drawings
in my mind towards Friends in the northern part of our
Quarterly Meeting, and for some months past believed

Age 44 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 127
it would be right for me to hold myself open to visit the
members of Muney Monthly Meeting, should way be
made therefor. Under this burden I have been bound in
spirit, but believing that my peace was concerned in the
matter, I laid it before our Monthly Meeting Twelfth
month 24th, which, after solid deliberation and a free
expression of unity, granted me a minute. The expres
sion of unity was a strength to me.

CHAPTER V.
European Trip.
Fourth month 12, 1875. Our Select Preparative Meet
ing was held this morning.
After the business was concluded, I informed the
meeting that my wife had been, for two or three years,
advised by her physician to take a sea voyage, which
neither she nor I had been willing to undertake until this
spring. As our physician, Dr. Wallace, had taken pas
sage on a steamer for England, to sail on the 26th of
next month, I inclined to do the same, believing it was
my place to do what I could for the restoration of my
wife's health, and I had the refusal of a room in the same
steamer for a few days, but was unwilling to close the
agreement until I had given the members of that meeting
a clear understanding of my purpose. I wished to know
that they were satisfied therewith, and held myself open
to their counsel, if they had anything to express on the
subject. Charles Evans said he had known the physical con
dition of my wife, and could readily understand my
strong desire for the restoration of her health, and as
he knew of no other suitable means that had not been
tried for her recovery, he approved of the proposed plan
being undertaken. Others also approved.
Engaged our passage on the steamer Russia, to sail
128

Age 45 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 129
on the 26th, which was afterward changed to the Scythia,
to sail one week earlier.
Fourth month 13. Went with father and mother Pat
terson to North Meeting. Mother Patterson commenced
with "Every one shall be salted with fire, and every
sacrifice shall be salted with salt." Enlarging on it, she
spoke of the importance of our remembering that our
Saviour said: "Without me ye can do nothing." She
spoke with earnestness and it seemed to have weight.
Fifth month 13. At our Meeting I was opened in
testimony to my relief. Brought to view the encourage
ment there was in the remembrance that when Queen
Esther approached the presence of the King as with her
life in her hand to make intercession for herself and her
people, the king reached forth his sceptre to her and
heard her request, and I had craved for myself and
desired for others that we might be preserved in and
enabled to arrive at that condition of mind wherein we
might approach Him at whose pleasure we stand or fall,
to pray for ourselves and one for another. Whilst on
the one hand, some may be too much elated or settle into
an idle complacency, there is danger on the other hand
of sinking too much under the weight of those things
which tend to press down the spirit and keep it from
endeavoring to rise in that power whereby we could say
to the mountain of difficulty, "Be thou removed and be
thou cast into the sea." And there is also a danger in
the Church of not only depending too much upon one

130 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1875
another for the performance of that religious exercise
which belongs to ourselves, but also of too highly esteem
ing one another, whether it be by despising prophesyings
or that secret exercise of soul in which those who were
as the salt of the earth were engaged. But there was
wanted amongst us a more harmonious and united crying
unto the Lord, who would doubtless be pleased to hearken
and to water and enlarge his heritage.
Fifth month 19. The Scythia is a new vessel, belong
ing to the Cunard Line, and had made but the one
voyage from England, and we expected to be on her
first return trip. She was four hundred and fifty-five
feet long and forty-two or forty-three feet wide.
The vessel began to move somewhat after the appointed
hour, 3 P. M. I watched those on shore who had so
kindly countenanced us, so long as they could be dis
tinguished and with solemn feelings, considering the
uncertainty of life and yet with trustful hope in the
mercy of a kind providence that all things shall be made
to work together for good.
Fifth month 26. Saw several sails to-day. We have
traveled nearly one thousand miles without seeing ter
ritory, to give us a sense of our isolated condition upon
the mighty waters and dependence upon the mercy of
Him who ruleth the winds and the waves. Surely those
who go upon the seas should know for what they leave
their homes.
We have spent much of the time during the day on

Age 45 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 131
deck, but rather uncomfortable nights, my Malinda suf
fering much with her back, due to the cramped position
in her berth. We have enjoyed reading the letters from
our children and friends given us to be read at sea.
Fifth month 28. Morning somewhat hazy. Land was
announced at 8.30 A- M. by the sailors, and we could
soon see the hills of Ireland. It is cause of reverent
thankfulness and gratitude that we have been thus far
preserved on our way, no serious mishap occurring to any
on board. There were one hundred and sixty cabin
passengers. M., though not at all well, got on deck for
a time, and Susan Wallace had been much amiss, but
came on deck to-day. We felt their leaving us, opposite
Queenstown, which they did about 3.30, as they inclined
to travel through Ireland before going to England, but
we thought best to proceed to Liverpool.
Fifth month 29. The sea last night was rougher than
it had been, and colder ; had not a very good night as to
sleep, but the prospect of making port before another
helped to bear that and other inconveniences.
Malinda was hardly well enough to enjoy the scenery
on the north coast of Wales, but to me it was interesting.
We arrived at or opposite Liverpool about 5 P. M. and,
after about two hours, being occupied by the annoying
process of the Custom House officers, we were trans
ferred to a small ferryboat to be landed. I was afraid
my dear M.'s strength would give out, but it did hold out,
through favor, for the needs of the day. We took a

132 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1875
carriage to Washington Hotel on Lime street, that having
been recommended by Dr. Wallace, who had stopped
there a few years before.
The docks of Liverpool should have a passing note, as
the tide rises and falls to an unusual degree. Enclosed
docks have been made here at an enormous expense, with
gates to let vessels in and out at high tide and enclose
those which are in so that they can be loaded and un
loaded without delay. The side of the dock next to the
sea or river being necessarily very thick, much business
can be done thereon.
I walked out after tea and saw the fish market, which
presented a lively scene, the stands being attended by
women, perhaps two hundred of them, who were very
vociferous in calling out their prices and proclaiming
their quality and kind. The building, probably two hun
dred feet square, was well crowded. Many kinds of fish
were new to me, and I made my first acquaintance with
the shrimp, which, when properly prepared, was very
palatable. Fifth month 30. First-day I attended Hunter Street
Meeting, where I was met at the door by George Cook,
who introduced me to Francis Thompson, a minister ; also
to Henry Crossfield, the latter having visited my father's
home when in America with John Hodgkin. I was
treated with courtesy and invited to a seat beside Francis
Thompson, which I declined, not being on a religious
visit, and took my seat at the lower end of the ministers'

Age 45 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 133
gallery. There were about one hundred and twenty
present. The afternoon meeting convened at 6 o'clock, and held
about an hour. About twenty were in attendance. Henry
Crossfield walked with me from the Meeting House,
which he said had become inconveniently situated, al
though when built it was thought too far out of town ; but
the city had increased much in size and he had five miles
to travel out to his home. He kindly offered to assist
me in promoting the object of my visit.
Fifth month 31. I had a pleasant interview with H.
Crossfield in his office, No. 8 Temple Court, and he gave
me a letter of introduction to his nephew, Alfred Cross-
field, of the St. Helen's Works, also to the manager of
the works of A. C. Hunt.
Sixth month 1. Hired a carriage and took Malinda a
ride through the Princess Park, and then through a con
siderable portion of the Sefton Park, which is very
beautiful. Sixth month 4. Left Liverpool for Southport, where
we took quarters at the Queen's Hotel, having a sitting
room, and our meals served there to ourselves. This
room has a very commanding view of the sea, in front,
which, at the highest tide, comes within eighty feet of
the house, the banks being protected by mason work, with
an excellent promenade and carriage road for some dis
tance. At low tide there is much riding upon donkeys by
the children, and not a few grown persons.

134 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1875
Sixth month 7. Called on Richard Nicholson, and
found him very kind and courteous. He entered with
good heart into our plans and encouraged us to go to
Lake Windemere and through Scotland. He had kindly
invited me to dine with him the previous day, which I
was unable to accept. Dr. Richard White called on us.
He is a Scotchman, and favored our visiting the moun
tain districts.
Sixth month 8. Visited the Aquarium at the Winter
Gardens, where is the most wonderful collection of living
fish and sea plants that I had ever witnessed. Took a
ride with Malinda through Birkdale, the road being of
asphaltum and small stones. She enjoyed it, not only
on account of the scenery, but also for the ease in riding
over it.
Sixth month 9. Foggy morning, so the appearance
from our sitting room is much changed; the promenade
is deserted, no donkey riding, but sundry fishermen cross
ing the flats with their nets and baskets of fish. Josiah
Thompson and wife, also John Bacon, called on us after
meeting. Sixth month 11. Left Southport for Silverdale, and
were met on arrival by Daniel Pickard, who took us in
his carriage to his home and were made welcome by
himself and family. He has a pleasantly situated man
sion with two or three acres of ground handsomely laid
out and overlooking Morecambe Bay. His wife is affable
and sincere in her manners, and they have four precious

Age 45 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 135
children — three daughters and one son. (Note — They
had another son, born after our visit, named for me.)
Sixth month 13. Attended Yealand Meeting, said to
be one of the oldest of our Society in the Kingdom.
About sixty persons present.
Sixth month 14. Rainy and cold. I engaged lodgings
with a person by the name of Mary Newton, in the
village of Silverdale, where we will probably remove on
Fourth-day. Sixth month 16. This morning we had a solid and
comfortable opportunity at Daniel Pickard's before part
ing, in which D. P. expressed his desire for the Divine
blessing to accompany us, and that so much of the object
of our visit might be obtained as was consistent with
the loving kindness of our heavenly Father. We were
brought to our lodgings about noon and were well pleased
with the situation. Mary Newton very agreeable and
disposed to get us anything we would wish that is prac
ticable. Sixth month 16. Went with Daniel and Lucy Pickard
to Lancaster Quarterly Meeting. This Meeting property
is one of the oldest in England, and the house seemed to
have been constructed and laid out in a liberal spirit with
its conveniences and committee rooms. Having time be
fore meeting, I walked up to the Castle and part way
round the building, the tower of which was built eight
hundred or one thousand years ago by John of Gaunt.
In this tower we are told that George Fox was incarce-

136 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1875
rated for eighteen months with miserable accommoda
tions. Sixth month 18. William Graham and wife called this
morning. They live at Birmingham. In the afternoon I
had a carriage and, with Malinda, rode an hour or two,
then round by Daniel Pickard's, where we took tea, in
company with William Graham and wife.
Sixth month 19. The weather to-day seemed like
summer — the first we have been able to do without
fire in this neighborhood. Hired a pony and basket
phaeton and drove past Lindeth Tower. Passing by this
place, the road went by a ledge of rocks, where the sea
beat at high tide. We stopped a while to enjoy the
scenery. Going on, the road descended almost to the
water's edge on a low level spot. Here we found the
Pickard children enjoying themselves on the beach.
Sixth month 26. We were called on this morning by
Samuel Moorehouse and wife, from Leeds. In the
afternoon the two youngest Pickard children came and
remained to tea with us, their father coming for them
in the evening. The evening was light enough to read
the Bible out in the open air at ten o'clock.
Sixth month 29. Thomas Newton and I went to Lan
caster and made an attempt to look into the castle, but
the gate-keeper was not disposed to let us in at the
front. The entrance into the court being open, and those
in charge of the door being quite free, we went in far
enough to see where the courts were held and got a

Age 45 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 137
general idea of the plan of the building, which is de
scribed in a little book, afterward purchased, entitled,
"Guide to Lancaster." From the castle we walked to
the Lunatic Asylum for the Poor, containing over one
thousand patients, apparently well provided for and with
extensive grounds around the building. One desirable
adjunct to this establishment is the workshops for those
who are inclined to work, shoemaking, joinering, rug
making and several other mechanical pursuits being car
ried on. We returned to Silverdale about 6.30 P. M.
Seventh month i. My Malinda having a strong desire
to see Swarthmore Meeting House and Hall, we left this
morning and traveled as far as Furness Abby and re
viewed the ruins there, probably in its time the seat of
much despotic power, but as a specimen of ancient
architecture certainly grand. From there we went to
Swarthmore, where I left my Malinda and Eliza Pickard,
who had accompanied us, while I went to find our friend,
J. M. Chapman, that he might pilot us. I found him at
his home on Sun street, very willing to spend a little
time with us; we accordingly took the carriage, calling
for Malinda and Eliza Pickard at the railroad depot, and
proceeded to the Meeting House, which appeared to be
a great satisfaction to my M. She held the Bible given
by George Fox, and printed in 1541, on her lap and
began two or three letters to her loved ones at home.
(1688 was over the door of the house.) From thence
we went to Swarthmore Hall, where our aged friend,

138 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1875
John Chapman, very kindly showed us around and re
lated many things of historical interest. J. M. Chapman
said for a number of years he was the only man member
of Swarthmore Meeting, but that recently it had in
crease, and on First-days there were generally forty
persons present.
In Swarthmore Hall we were shown the position in a
bay window where George Fox and his wife were seated
in times of meetings, also the room where Judge Fell
transacted his official business. The rooms in the second
story were wainscoted and communicating. There was
a little recess between them, in the back part of which
was a small fireproof. In the wall out of the recess was
a doorway opening out on a balcony, taken down in
J. M. C.'s memory because of decay. From this balcony
we were told G. F. used to preach to the people in the
orchard below. The out-buildings were large. It was
said Judge Fell kept one hundred horses. There had
evidently been a large out-kitchen at one time, the fire
place of which appeared to be about five feet deep and
twelve feet wide, but now used for a stable ! The sum
ming of it all comes to this — that all these things perish
with the using; they all vanish, but the Lord alone re-
maineth, and our hearts are not to be set upon created
things, but upon the Lord, who showeth mercy. Returned
in the train leaving Ulverston at 6 P. M. Malinda stood
the trip very well. We had a remarkably fine day for
the excursion.

Age 45 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 139
Seventh month 3. In the evening took a new walk
with Daniel Pickard, on the crags and along the edge of
a field of oats, and one of barley on the other side of the
stone wall. The harvest is, as near as I can learn, one
month later than in America. Strawberries are now
about at their best and of a very large size; had some
handed this evening weighing a quarter of an ounce each.
Seventh month 5. Went up to Liverpool on business
and had a sight of the Sultan of Zanzibar. He was
dressed in Turkish costume and is said to be a Moham
medan; is now on a visit to England, and they say he is
well pleased with his reception and intends to use his
influence on his return for the suppression of slavery in
his dominion. The British minister to Zanzibar inter
preted for him. Returned to Silverdale on the sixth.
Seventh month 7. Left Silverdale at 10 A. M., Eliza
Pickard accompanying us, and took train for Lake
Shore, arriving at 11.45, having changed cars at Ulver-
ston. Lake Shore is the south end of Lake Windemere,
whereon we embarked on a small steamer. The weather
was the warmest of the season, but with the boat in
motion there was a comfortable breeze. The scenery was
truly beautiful, to which I cannot do justice, but must
refer to the description given in books of better writers.
Arrived at Bowness 12.20, which appeared to be a place
of some note. We hired a conveyance and proceeded to
Ambleside and up a steep mountainous road to Gale
Mountain House, which we found full. Were recom-

140 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1875
mended to go next door, where Sara Wilson furnished
us with two lodging rooms and a sitting room. The
views from our lodgings are magnificent — mountains all
around us. In the afternoon Eliza Pickard and I walked
to the town of Ambleside, which is an elevated basin, but
probably one hundred feet lower than our lodgings.
Seventh month 8. Took a long ride in a phaeton for
nearly three hours; passed through the town of Amble
side, by the residence of the poet Wordsworth — Nab
Scar — from the top of which eight lakes can be seen and
a great many mountains. Saw Rydal Mount, also the
rock where Wordsworth was wont to sit and write,
which is a curiosity. We passed the Prince of Wales
Hotel, near Grassmere; through the village of Grass-
mere, which is the burial place of Wordsworth and
family; around the head of Grassmere Lake, on around
the road and up an exceedingly steep place, where we all
had to get out and walk. We were shown the house
where Walter Scott wrote Helvellyn. On the route back
the scenery was also very fine. In the evening our atten
tion was arrested, first by the noise, then by the sight
of a great flock of rooks, whose peculiar squawking was
rather disturbing to our sleep during the night.
Seventh month 9. In the evening Eliza Pickard and I
ascended Laughing Fell, opposite; and from the top we
had such a view as I never saw before — it was grand,
beautiful ! The path up was pretty good, but steep over
the cliffs and rocks ; but we experienced much more diffi-

Age 45 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 141
culty coming down, having endeavored to find a new
path that would avoid the climbing of two fences of
stone, but we got into a boggy marsh and finally were
glad enough to come across our old path.
Seventh month io. We rode to Windemere and, after
resting at the hotel there and taking lunch, we took the
train for Kendal. There we took a carriage and had a
drive through the city and around the outskirts thereof
and on the hill overlooking it. The air was salubrious.
We took the 3.30 train from there for Carnforth, where
we made connections for Silverdale, where we were met
by Daniel Pickard.
Seventh month 12. Received letters from our children
and some of our friends, welcome and interesting news
from home.
I left Silverdale this morning for New Castle for busi
ness purposes. After several detentions, arrived at New
Castle at 9.30 P. M. The depot here is a magnificent one ;
a hotel is attached to it, and I took lodgings there. The
approach to New Castle appeared like a vast manufactur
ing district.
Seventh month 13. I walked through the cattle market ;
the shepherd dogs were of great interest, especially their
skill in managing the droves through the streets. I visited
the old castle, and was kindly shown about by the keeper
of the library, in the lower room of which were many
antiquities ; the main room, perhaps forty feet high, also
contained a number.

142 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1875
Left New Castle for Darlington, expecting to lodge
there. Seventh month 14. Returned to Silverdale, finding my
M. well, except a sty on her eye.
Seventh month 18. Went to Yealand Meeting with
Daniel Pickard and wife and daughter Eliza. Eliza
Pickard dined with us, and the small children came over
in the afternoon, and their father and mother in the eve
ning, to bid us farewell, as we purpose leaving this place
in the morning, and feel that we have cause for gratitude
in that we have been so well provided for and kindly
treated. Seventh month 19. Bid farewell to Silverdale, our kind
landlady, her husband and sister Jane Pemberton. It was
touching ; some tears shed by all, and with mutual desires
for each other's welfare, we parted and proceeded to the
railroad station, where Daniel Pickard came to see us off.
Took train for Liverpool and stopped at the Washington
Hotel. We heard that on the llth inst. The Scythia (the vessel
on which we came over), being one day out, one of the
officers on the lookout, feeling sensible that the ship had
struck something, went to the stern, when he, with some
others, saw a whale rise up about five feet out of the
water and was quite bloody. It was deemed prudent for
the ship to return to Queenstown and be examined by
sending down some divers, who reported three blades
of the screw broken and some of the stern sheets started,

Age 45 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 143
whereupon the ship was ordered back to Liverpool for
repairs. The dead whale was afterwards seen by a yacht
and, with the assistance of a tugboat, was towed into
Liverpool. Extract from a letter to J. S. E. from Joseph Walton :
Moorestown, Seventh month 13, 1875.
D. Pickard speaks kindly and favorably of thy move
ments in a religious way. In thy present position, no
doubt prudence is requisite, and yet there is a degree of
liberty in the Spirit of the Lord, and when thou art sen
sible of its holy presence and help, I would encourage
thee to a faithful discharge of such duties as may be
laid upon thee. The true Christian must ever maintain
the watch and be instant out of season as well as in
season. How often does it occur that to the attentive
mind little openings lead to opportunities of true religious
refreshment; and we are made to rejoice in spirit at the
descendings of the heavenly rain upon what had seemed
a dry and thristy land. I hope and believe that if thou
keeps thy place, thy sojourn in England will tend to
strengthen and comfort some who are often tried in
spirit, and may prove useful in other ways. If this
should prove to be the case, and if dear Malinda should
return with renewed strength and health, you will be
repaid for the fatigue, anxiety and expense attending
your journey. — J. W.
Seventh month 20. Left Liverpool for Birmingham,
where we were kindly entertained by our friends, William

144 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1875
and Elizabeth Graham. From Northampton to Liverpool
it appeared to be a great manufacturing district ; is called
the Black Country. On our way here from Liverpool we
spent a few hours in Manchester visiting the Meeting
House, which is a good structure and well planned. A
library and tract repository is over the hall entering the
Meeting House.
Seventh month 21. Went to Birmingham Meeting,
where perhaps sixty were assembled, and we had a good
meeting. Seventh month 26. Left the hospitable roof of our
kind friends, the Grahams, and took train for Great
Malvern. The country as we passed through looked
beautiful. We arrived near 3 P. M. and took carriage
to the South Villa, recommended by Elizabeth Graham;
but the rooms there being all engaged, we came to the
Mt. Pleasant, on Bellview Terrace. From the drawing-
room windows had a magnificent prospect over the coun
try, as also from the garden, which is terraced with walks
on the side of the hill, and on the higher side of the
garden is a summer house, very favorably located.
Seventh month 28. In the afternoon took Malinda a
drive along the west road to the pass through the hills
at British Camp grove, and on until we came near the
hill called the Beacon, and then through a deep cut called
"The Witch Pass," and so on back to Malvern ; going, we
stopped at the spring called The Holy Well, where, in
times past, the monks resorted. The water is unusually

Age 45 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 145
clear and pure, and nearby is an establishment for bot
tling mineral waters, to be shipped to London. Every
where the view over the country was magnificent ; and at
places we could see over into Wales.
Seventh month 29. Went to Malvern Meeting, Ma
linda accompanying me. The meeting was small and
some little ability granted to minister before the people.
Before breakfast I walked some distance up the moun
tain behind us to a stand, where were some ponies and
donkeys to hire. I engaged a boy and a pony and went up
to the St. Ann's well, over which is quite a refreshment
house, and passed on up a very winding path to the
summit of the mountain. Here I liberated the boy and
pony and walked down.
Seventh month 30. In the afternoon we rode to the
residence of Lord Somers, at Eastner Castle, a distance
of about seven miles, three of which were through his
own grounds along an old road supposed to be a Roman
road, but in beautiful order, with trees and shrubs at
the sides thereof. There were herds of beautiful deer
over the place, also some fine-looking cattle. The castle
was a good specimen of baronial architecture, in good
condition, but looked as if it belonged to ancient times.
There was a lake in which were geese and swans. The
garden and hothouse arrangements were superb, and the
lawn the most extensive of any I ever saw.
Eighth month 2. Our dear friend, Ellen, daughter of
William and Elizabeth Graham, came in, and we were

146 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1875
truly glad to see her. She kindly came to stay over night
with us and brought us some interesting reading.
Eighth month 5. Received a kind letter from Ellen
Graham, stating that her mother offers to come and stay
with Malinda whilst I go to London. Mercury 62°, so
we ordered fire.
Eighth month 6. Left Malvern on the 9.18 train; rode
to Worcester, thence to London, passing over a very
cultivated section of country; in most places seeming
like one vast garden, much of it farmed without fences
between the different patches of vegetables or crops of
grain. Wheat was about ripe and some cut and shocked.
The bean crop was also shocked. This was a new sight
to me. It appeared to have grown to the same height as
wheat and had been tied into bundles.
Between Oxford and Reading I observed the earth in
the cuttings of the hill of a very white color, and was
told it was marl. Arrived at Paddington at a very capa
cious railway station about 2.30 P. M. ; passed up some
steps, thence through a long passageway, down again to
an underground passage and station, and there took train
for the centre or heart of London. 'Twas curious to
be passing under a great city for a distance of three or
more miles. An enormous expense appears to have been
gone into, in this matter of tunneling and getting the
necessary light, but it is a monument of great engineering.
I took quarters in Joseph Armfield's hotel, he receiving
me kindly. After dinner I walked out to the office of

Age 45 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 147
Edward Hicks, 16 Bishopsgate street. He is a nepHew
of Richard Esterbrook, and he introduced me to Edward
Marsh, who kindly showed me over the Meeting House
property and the fireproof room wherein the records of
the Society were kept. There were fifty large volumes
in manuscript of accounts of the sufferings and dis
tresses Friends endured because of their consistency.
The buildings were well constructed and adapted for the
purposes intended, the Yearly Meeting being there ac
commodated. The meeting rooms for the men and
women being distinct from the other two for the holding
of ordinary meetings for worship, they were not in a line
as ours, but more in a circle, with large accommodations
for committee rooms, etc. A book store, kept by Edward
Marsh, was also on the property. The Friends' Institute
is also connected, where some are lodged and where a
large library and reading-room is attached.
Joseph Armfield walked with me some distance to view
the Royal Exchange, the Lord Mayor's residence, the
Bank of England, several banking houses where the
Gurneys and Barclays held forth, where the Grace-
church Street Meeting House once stood, which is now
covered by large buildings. The place where William
Allen transacted his business as a druggist is occupied by
a court of office buildings. A great monument, two hun
dred feet high, with a winding staircase inside erected
over the spot where the great fire originated in 1660, is
extremely interesting in a historical sense.

148 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1875
From there we went to the London Bridge over the
Thames, where were two streams of vehicles each way;
a stone structure on arches, the river as wide as our
Schuylkill. Eighth month 7. Arising early, took a cab and rode
along the Strand, viewing the buildings along the way;
passing under Temple Bar out to the Parliament Build
ings and Westminster Abbey, viewing them and Bucking
ham Palace; through St. James Park, back past the
Museum buildings, Old Bailey, the Post Office, and re
turning to the Hotel by 8.30, when we had breakfast.
Joseph Armfield took me over to Croydon, where we
drove around making some calls ; saw the Crystal Palace
in the distance. Returned to the Armfield Hotel and,
after tea, took the train and passed under the river to
Paddington, where I took the 6.30 train and arrived at
Malvern about 11.30. Found Elizabeth Graham had
kindly remained with my Malinda.
Eighth month 8. To-day a letter came from Dr. Wal
lace, stating that they would be in Shrewsbury on the
7th, and when they were settled for any time at any
place would let us know, but we thought best to make
ready and start for Shrewsbury, if perchance we could
join them.
While at Birmingham I called on the firm of Elkinton,
there being five brothers in the business — that of silver
smiths. Their names are John, Charles, Henry, Alfred

Age 45 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 149
and Hyle. I was kindly received and shown through their
works. They have five hundred employees.
Eighth month p. We left Great Malvern at 11.37 by the
Hereford route, and arrived at Shrewsbury about 3 P. M.,
to find that Dr. Wallace had left that morning for Bettws-
y-Ceod; we were somewhat disconcerted, since it would
have been a great satisfaction to have seen them; but as
we are on our direction to Liverpool, we shall keep patient
until we hear. We took quarters at the Raven Hotel.
Eighth month io. Took a drive around the town and
saw many very antiquated structures. The city itself is
quite unique.
Eighth month ii. Received a letter from Dr. Wallace,
informing us he had engaged rooms for us at the Gwydr
House, Bettws-y-Ceod, and I telegraphed we would be
there next morning.
Left Shrewsbury 10.05, and proceeded to Chester — a
beautiful ride. Arrived about noon at the Queen's Hotel
and, after dinner, took a ride around the city, viewing the
various buildings and ruins, and thought the architecture
different from any we had seen before. This city is
noted for having portions of the old Roman wall still
remaining. Eighth month 12. Took the 9.30 train for Bettws-y-
Ceod, arriving about noon, when we met Dr. Wallace
and company. We were all glad to meet again. Found
our rooms ready. The Gwydr Hotel is favorably situated.
After dinner took a walk to the end of the town, where

150 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1875
there is a fine mountain stream rushing wildly over the
rocks. It was interesting to watch the fish vainly endeav
oring to jump over the falls. The village appears to have
fifty or sixty houses, four of these hotels, all built of very
pretty stone. It is what they call a charming place, and
the scenery around very beautiful.
Eighth month 13. In the afternoon walked to what is
called the Waterloo Bridge from the fact of its having
been constructed the year the Battle of Waterloo was
fought. It is a costly iron structure and very solid.
Had a full conversation with doctor about Malinda;
he considers her general health improved, although she
needed medical treatment, but he believed after our re
turn home we would all be sensible of a change for the
better. Eighth month 14. This afternoon, with Dr. Wallace
and wife, I took an excursion to the Straits of Menai;
passing the Conway Castle, Wlandale, the latter being a
bathing place. Took a carriage at Bangor and went on
to see the Suspension bridge; crossing this, we came to
the Tubular bridge, built by Robert Stephenson — cer
tainly a monument of what can be accomplished by man ;
only three towers, one of them in the stream itself. The
whole length of the bridge is eighteen hundred feet and
one hundred feet above the water. Came back to Bettws-
y-Ceod at 8 P. M.
Eighth month 17. Malinda, being taken more poorly,
I have given up the prospect of going to Ireland.

Age 45 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 151
Eighth month 19. Went with Dr. Wallace and son to
the Penrith slate quarries, passing by the smaller falls
and several others through a most romantic country.
We found the slate quarry to exceed in extent any con
ception we had entertained of it. Two thousand six hun
dred men are said to be at work in the side of the
mountain. Fifty miles of tram railway are used about
the mountain to carry the slate to be shipped.
Eighth month 23. Left Bettws-y-Ceod on the 12 A. M.
train for Liverpool, where we arrived about 5 P. M.,
Malinda standing the journey better than we feared.
Went to the Washington Hotel, where we were given our
old room, which suited us very well.
Eighth month 24. Leaving Malinda with Dr. Wallace
and wife, she being better, I took the steamer Voltaire
for Belfast.
Eighth month 25. Landed at Belfast; hired a jaunting
car and proceeded toward the residence of Foster Green
at Derrie Colgie. These jaunting cars are curious vehi
cles, designed for four passengers beside the driver. They
seemed like a small platform over two wheels, the driver
on a little seat perched in the centre of the front of the
platform. The side seats overlap the wheels. To me it
seemed like a very shaky way of riding. I would think
a phaeton much more comfortable. About half way met
Foster Green coming with his carriage, to which I was
transferred, meeting with a hearty greeting, and was

152 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1875
taken to his residence, which gave evidence of the owner
being possessed of large means.
During the morning visited Foster Green's store in
Belfast, which is an extensive establishment. One hun
dred and twenty men are employed in the tea, coffee, spice
and wholesale grocery business.
After dinner took train to Hillsboro ; on our way passed
by the linen establishment of the Richardson Brothers.
We were met by William Green, who kissed me and did
certainly exhibit much warmth of expression, speaking of
the different members of our family, and his recollection
of father was very lively. William Green lives adjoining
the town of Hillsboro, inside the gate and wall of a park
belonging to the Marquis of Devonshire. It is a humble-
looking cottage, but scrupulously neat, with a large, well-
kept garden. I do not know that I ever found more
contentment in any house than appeared here. William
having a little grandchild, the ninth child of his daughter
Elizabeth Sarah Harris, he suggested its being named
Malinda, for my wife. We had an interesting and in
structive evening and then, as well as next morning, had
some religious service.
Eighth month 26. William Green accompanied me to
Belfast, where we attended the meeting, which was larger
than usual. I dined at Foster Green's, after visiting a
soap factory on the way there from meeting. In the
afternoon parted with William Green at the railway sta-

Age 45 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 153
tion, he taking train for home, and Foster Green accom
panying me to the steamer Magnetic.
Eighth month 27. I again had a comfortable passage
across the channel, arriving this morning at 7 A. M., and
we went into the clearance basin, giving me an oppor
tunity of seeing the plan of these magnificent structures
that are at these docks. Went to the Washington Hotel
and found M. quite well for her.
Eighth month 28. Took our leave of Washington
Hotel about 2 P. M. and were driven to the landing,
where we boarded the tugboat or tender. Josiah Thomp
son accompanied us on the tender to the steamship
"Bothnia," where we embarked and moved off about
6 P. M.
Eighth month 29. Had a quiet night and in comfort
able condition this morning. Arrived off Queenstown
about noon and waited for the London mail. Have been
told we have two hundred and ninety-four cabin passen
gers and one hundred and twenty steerage. Among the
cabin passengers is Gen. George B. McClellan.
Ninth month 4.. About noon we passed through quite
a school of whales, some twelve or fifteen of them being
plainly visible; and one, passing quite near the vessel,
dove down nearly alongside. Much spouting was seen.
Although I was much interested in the sight of the
whales, yet I did not think we were any safer for their
company. Ninth month 6. Saw a steamer to the south, heading

154 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1875
east. There has not been a day since leaving Liverpool
but that some vessel has been in sight. Took on a pilot
about 1.20.
Ninth month 8. Anchored off quarantine about 2.30
A. M. Doctor came on board in the morning and we
proceeded on our way, reaching New York about 8 A. M.
Brother Thomas was there, waiting for us, and took
Malinda with him on the tender and took the 9.25 train
for Philadelphia, where they arrived about noon, leaving
me to see to the baggage being passed through the custom
house department and to follow on a train leaving Jersey
City about noon.
Extract from a letter dated Tenth month 14, 1875 :
Our family gathered in, our son J. coming home last
week from his visit to his grandfather and grandmother
Patterson, and uncles and aunts in the west; and having
experienced preservation from dangers seen and unseen.
The call for gratitude that we have been thus permitted
to mingle again with the family circle unbroken was per
haps never greater. "God is the Lord, that my soul
knoweth right well," is a language that may, under the
renewed sense of his benefits, be adopted. There was a
time when we were at Silverdale, England, that his
mother particularly was brought under great exercise of
mind on J.'s account lest he was in great danger, and she
much wanted to know what he was doing or how he was
situated. It appears at that time he had gone with his
uncle on a business trip from home. The heat was ex-

Age 45 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 155
cessive, the mercury registering over 100°, and he was
nearly overcome, and persuaded his uncle to defer re
turning until the cool of the evening should enable them
to go back with less fatigue ; but in the evening there came
on a tremendous storm, accompanied with severe light
ning, and their escape seemed almost marvelous, as the
lightning played all around them. Is it not wonderful
how members of one family and members of the great
family and church are brought into sympathy, one with
another, when separated, and sometimes led to a breath
ing of spirit for the preservation, one of another, who
may be exposed to danger or peculiar trials and tempta
tions which are adapted to our various conditions of life?
But the nearer we keep to the Fountain of Life the more
will our spiritual faculties be developed and we given a
sense of things, or be given to partake of the great and
precious promises whereby we are made partakers of
the Divine nature.

CHAPTER VI.
Visit to Seneca Indians.
Referring to the reading of the Scripture in meetings
for worship, J. S. E. remarks : He should be pitied who
could not feel enough interest to want to read the Scrip
tures, but it is a great imposition to enforce it upon others
when they may or should be in secret exercise or com
munion. Third month, 1876. Attended a verbal Committee of
the Monthly Meeting and of the Property Committee in
reference to increasing the accommodation of our Book
Store (304 Arch street), but did not come to any definite
conclusion. I had a plan drawn up for a new building,
which would accommodate the library on the first floor
and have some committee rooms. My design was to have
the proposed new building west of the present building,
and have the present building used for a place of enter
tainment. Our friend, Thomas Hutchinson, however,
thought that the public would take advantage of it and
that it was no requirement of our Society to furnish
accommodations for them, and the expense of the pro
posed new building was thought to be in the way. The
plan I had presented not being adopted, the party whom
I engaged to draw it took it off my hands without charge.
What prompted the appointment of the committee was
that the treasurer of the Westtown Committee wanted
156

Age 45 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 157
better acommodation, but he was fitted up to some extent
in the third story of the Book Store, and afterward the
office of the treasurer was removed to the Forrest Build
ing on Fourth street below Chestnut.
Eighth month 25. Heard to-day of the death of Anna
Conrow, my Malinda's grandmother, an honorable Elder,
who has served her generation well. The funeral is to
be on the twenty-seventh at 2 P. M.
Eighth month 26. It was expected that I should go to
the funeral of grandmother Conrow,* but I cannot feel
justified in going so far from home in the present con
dition of my family.
Second month 23, 1877. Received a telegram that aunt
Sarah Nutt had been attacked with apoplexy, which
would probably be fatal. I went out with cousin Mary

*The obituary notice in "The Friend" read thus : Died on the
25th of Eighth month, 1876, Anna E. Conrow, in the 82nd year
of her age, a member and elder of Stillwater Monthly Meeting,
Belmont County, Ohio. As a shock of corn cometh in its season
and as a servant waiting for his Lord, we believe she was found
with her lamp trimmed and burning. She was preserved in
patience and innocent sweetness, evincing the benefit of resigna
tion to the Divine Will in all things, leaving to her friends the
consoling assurance that her purified spirit entered into the
longed-for rest. "Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom there is
no guile."
To the above I can add that her memory is very precious to
me, and I have had great comfort in her society when it has been
my lot to be with her. — J. S. E.

158 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1877
Wood, arriving at Marshallton about 5 P. M., and found
that aunt Sarah has deceased about 11 A. M. She had
risen early in the morning and was sitting in her chair,
able to converse, but about 7 A. M. was attacked with
apoplexy, which caused great suffering in her head. A
second attack came on about 9 A. M., and from this she
did not rally. Funeral to be from Meeting House, Second
month 26. To an older generation of Westtown pupils
she was long remembered for her ability as a baker of
excellent pies.
Second month 26. A considerable company gathered
at the Meeting House at the time appointed — 2 P. M.
An impressive silence prevailing — I think it might be
said, was accompanied by a solemnity not at our com
mand. No public testimony was delivered, but we silently
committed the remains to the grave and returned to our
homes, clothed with sobriety.
Seventh month 22. First-day. Many absent from
meeting — only three men sat facing the meeting and none
in the gallery on the women's side. Still, I trust the
meeting was not held in vain, and there was yet a little
heavenly bread to take with us to our homes. May the
Lord bless us in our humble endeavor to support his
cause, even in our weakness.
Great difficulty in the country from the uprising of
workingmen and strikes in different places by railroad
employees, miners and others. Militia were sent to Pitts-

Age 47 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 159
burgh, and some loss of life occurred in the conflicts that
have taken place.
Seventh month 26. Monthly Meeting. In the second
meeting William Evans expressed that he thought it
would be well to consider whether a meeting under the
care of Philadelphia Quarterly Meeting might not be
established at West Philadelphia. Samuel Allen thought
it desirable that a meeting should be set up there. I had
the same feeling. Charles Evans said it was well for the
subject to rest on the minds of Friends, but as the meet
ing would be within the limits of Western District
Monthly Meeting, the consent of that meeting should be
obtained, so the matter was left for the time.
Ninth month 1. Left Philadelphia in company with
George J. Scattergood and my son Joseph on board the
steamer "Roman," the trip being chiefly for the benefit
of Joseph's health. The next morning, First-day, G. J. S.
was able to go to the breakfast table, but I did not feel
like it, and Joseph was a little seasick. We had an invi
tation from the captain to the cabin, and were given to
understand the Scriptures would be read. G. J. S. and
I went down, and it proved a season of some solemnity.
The afternoon was spent comfortably, and Joseph was
able to be at the tea table and enjoyed himself in the
evening in the wheel-house, the captain taking quite an
interest in him and rather pleased with his inquisitiveness.
We arrived safely in Boston on the 3d. I visited the
Common and saw the spot where the great tree stood,

160 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1878
noted in history as being the one on which William
Leddra, Marmaduke Stephenson, William Robinson and
Mary Dyer suffered martyrdom. I then visited the State
Library, where I was joined by G. J. S. and Joseph.
In the afternoon we took train for New Bedford, where
we remained over night; and, after a ride around the
city, we took passage and had a delightful sail to Oak
Bluff, on Martha's Vineyard, where we dined and had
a pleasant ride around the place.
Seventh month 16, 1878. George J. Scattergood and I
went to Muney, and later to Elklands. We spent the
time between Seventh month 16 and Seventh month 25
attending meetings and visiting among the families in the
two localities, where we had some interesting opportuni
ties. Returned home in time for our Monthly Meeting
on the 25th.
At a Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadelphia, held
Eighth month 29, 1878 :
Our beloved friend, Joseph S. Elkinton, opened in this meet
ing a prospect of attending in gospel love the approaching Yearly
Meeting of Friends in Ohio; which, upon deliberate considera
tion, was freely united with; and he was liberated and encour
aged to attend thereto, under the guidance of best wisdom, he
being a minister in unity with us.
A copy of this minute is directed to be furnished him, signed
on our behalf. Taken from the minutes.
George J. Scattergoood, Clerk.
Horatio C. Wood,
Correspondent,

Age 48 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 161
Tenth month 24. In the second meeting of our
Monthly Meeting, held to-day, I returned the minute
granted me two months ago and informed the meeting
that, in company with Jacob Roberts, I had attended Ohio
Yearly Meeting and having, in mercy, been permitted to
return in peace, I felt thankful to have been allowed to
mingle with the brethren there. The Yearly Meeting was
held in the new Meeting House. The affairs were con
ducted in harmony and the general expression was that
Friends had met together for good and were comforted.
The meetings for worship were seasons of favor.
Twelfth month. A meeting for worship, under the
care of the Committee of the Quarterly Meeting, was
opened Twelfth month 3, 1878, in West Philadelphia, in
the Meeting House erected at Forty-second and Powelton
avenue, and was largely attended, the house being about
seven-eighths full. First Month 16, 1879.
My dear Wife: I telegraphed to thee on Third-day,
telling of my arrival at Salamanca. It has snowed some
every day this year, so there is some depth to it. We
saw a man in Salamanca who gave us information bear
ing on our embassy. Next called on A. B. Blinkey, who
had been a councillor, but was now out of position, both
as an officer and preacher, having been connected with
the Baptist Mission in New York. He thinks he will go
back to the Cattaraugus Reservation, where he came
from. He gave us considerable information concerning

162 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1879
the proceedings of the Council last week, which im
peached their president for signing a lease without au
thority, and is now turned out and cannot vote nor hold
office for five years. Arrived at Tunesassa in good time
for tea and received a hearty welcome. All seemed in
good health. Yesterday, after dinner, we went to see the
one who signed an Address to Friends, asking help from
them. He was not at home, having gone to the Council
House about half a mile distant. Had a talk with his
mother-in-law, who is the wife of Peter Crouse, and
granddaughter of Mary Jimerson, who was the great
woman of note among the Senecas. Susan Crouse is a
very intelligent woman, and believes the Indians are
improving, having better homes, drink less whiskey and
generally doing better. At the Council House I found
about fifteen men and boys and two women, the latter
doing some cooking in a great pot, swung over a famous
pile of burning wood, in a huge chimney. The women
seemed to be enjoying what they were at or what they
had in prospect of doing. Some of the men were en
gaged in carpenter work, fixing up their Council House,
which was in need of repairs.
Had my conversation with Alexander John, whose
wife told me they were going to have a New Year's dance
in about two weeks.
Alexander John wanted our deputation to meet with
the Indians of that neighborhood next Second-day. After
leaving there, traveled back and called on Owen Black-

Age 49 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 163
snake, whose son William is likely to be appointed presi
dent of the council, to meet next Seventh-day. He has
been president before and seems like a man of some
presence. I had a pretty open talk with him about the
concerns which were felt to most affect their interest
about not leasing to whites, and dividing their land among
themselves. I hope he will make way for us to read our
Address to the Councillors next Seventh-day afternoon,
which will facilitate matters if the snow does not prevent
Samuel Morris and Dr. James E. Rhoads from arriving
at Salamanca in time. If the Councillors give us a
hearing, we can go on making our appointments on the
four succeeding days over the reservation, as it will then
not make so much matter about their presence at the
after meetings. I would hope for two appointments on
Second-day at Cold Spring and Oldtown, one at Horse
shoe on Third-day and one at Cornplanter's on Fourth-
day, so that by Sixth-day, if things worked favorably, we
might go over to Cattaraugus Reservation. Aaron P.
Dewees talks of driving us over in the sleigh.
With love, thy husband, J. S. E.
Tunesassa, First month 4, 1879.
My dear Wife: I stopped in my account yesterday
without telling how we were spilled out of the sleigh,
four out of the six of us. I was on the front seat, under
side, and, finding how things were going, I made a grab

164 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1879
for the upper side of the sleigh ; but, missing that, I took
a grip around Aaron's body, which was no better, for
out we went together. Fortunately the horses were will
ing to stop. We gathered up ourselves and robes and,
as no one was hurt, proceeded on our way. We had a
very interesting time at Cornplanter's, having arrived
there about 10 A. M. We had five hours among them,
which we improved to best advantage so far as we were
capable. We returned to the school in time for a good
supper, the people wondering whether we were in the
river or what had become of us ; they thought of sending
a messenger out to hunt us. We were delayed by the
difficulty in traveling through the snow. We are, how
ever, I apprehend, through the heavy end of it, unless
the weather should turn unfavorable. Yesterday after
noon we were at Oldtown, and had quite an interesting
time. Took the sled, as the sleigh was broken, and found
it a hard tug for the horses, but the distance much less
than the day before; by some of us walking up one hill
we got along. To-day we are waiting to meet a dele
gation to confer on business with the Indians at this place.
William, son of Owen Blacksnake, has been appointed
president, and it is expected that business will go on.
We have improved the time as well as we knew how, and
it is plain we cannot get away from here this week.
With love, thy husband,
J. S. E.

Age 49 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 165
First month 24. Yesterday we went to Oldtown, taking
H. Huff for an interpreter. Present, fourteen men and
four women.
James Pierce said they had but twelve scholars in
their school. Most of the young people had grown up.
Lafayette Barton said there were twenty-three children
on the roll, which, we understood, were all there were
in the neighborhood. We found King Pierce a sociable
man, and he had two daughters. Dr. J. E. Rhoads, before
meeting, spoke to them as a physician, advising them to
keep good shoes and underclothes, a protection against
chest diseases, with which they seem to be troubled.
When the meeting convened, Samuel Morris read the
Address. Dr. J. E. R. said a year ago we were asked by
one hundred Indians to ask the Government not to make
laws to sanction leases. This year we had letters from
other parties to the same import. We were satisfied if
these leases were carried out it would have the effect to
put all into the hands of white men. If you could take
care of your royalty of the oil, you could take care of
the whole thing. Two of our Friends went to Washing
ton and told the Senate Committee it would be bad for
those leases to be confirmed. Others went this winter.
I heard there was a bill to remove Indians off reserva
tion, but was told there was no such bill, but we think
where there is smoke there is fire, and it is better to stop
things before they begin. Reasons were given why such
leases would be injurious, and a letter was written to put

166 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1879
on file. We find great difficulty in government. At the
last presidential election we had great trouble ; men feared
there would be strife. Many prayers were put up by
good people ; many felt prayers were answered. We felt
in Philadelphia you were in trouble, and we want you to
remember that our Heavenly Father is able to help you.
You should choose your best men for your affairs. Do
this and keep united. You have an interest in Cattarau
gus, and Cattaraugus Indians have an interest in Alle
gheny, and Cornplanters have an interest in both. We
know there is much difficulty in different minds; but we
hope difficulties may be overcome. Be patient about
difficulties at Salamanca. Some of your men are out of
heart ; that will not do ; labor on. Having been ten years
coming among you, we see many indications you are
doing better. Better teams, better cattle are on hand.
We hope you are growing more attentive to the great
subject of religion. We feel respect and reverence for
good men who feel for their own people and give them
the hand of encouragement.
J. S. E. added much in the same line.
H. Huff (the interpreter) said they wished to express
thanks to the Friends who had come to advise them.
They hope those who have come may be spared to get
back to their families safe. The Indians were then in
vited to ask any questions regarding the contents of the
letter. Jesse Jackson wanted to know if the land could be

Age 49 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 167
divided and whether there was any bill for that purpose.
He would like to have his land to himself.
J. E. R. : One individual cannot have it so, but a bill
could be passed, enabling all Indians to have it so. First,
they ought to stop oil leases; second, see to Salamanca
business; get that fixed, then you would be in condition
to divide your lands.
J. S. E. : Friends have advised for seventy years that
you divide your land, and if you had done it, much trou
ble would have been saved. Now, as Dr. Rhoads has
said, you must stop the present trouble about oil leases,
etc., lest others get such a hold on your lands you cannot
have them to divide.
J. E. R. : One of our Friends is watching at Washing
ton, too. Some of your people feel as if you cannot have
the government carried on honestly; but white people,
too, have trouble like that; but when good people unite,
great improvement takes place.
At the suggestion of H. Huff, a copy of the Address
was left with James Pierce. I also gave a copy to Laura
Jimerson, with some other papers.
First month 29. We attended the Council at New
town, on the Cattaraugus Reservation. Council com
menced about 4 P. M. About sixty-five men and a few
women were present. Sim Logan interpreted for Samuel
Jimerson, who wanted to say a few words.
Samuel Jimerson: Very thankful to Friends of Phila
delphia, and that all were well. That it is the will of

168 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1879
the Great Spirit you should be here. We understand the
dangers and are glad you are delivered safe. We under
stand long while since Friends have interest in our peo
ple, and we feel attached in various ways. There has
always been good feeling from our forefathers, and we
feel it to-day ; and whatever communication you have, we
hope you will communicate freely of your feelings. We
know time is drawing near ; we are embarrassed. Friends
will give us instructions to meet this embarrassment. We
are aware you understand proceedings in Congress con
cerning the Indians. We feel grateful to know that
Friends have stood up to defend the Indians, and hope
this will go on. With these few words we express our
feelings; you may now commence.
Samuel Morris : We are glad to see so many Newtown
people this afternoon. We are very glad they have not
forgotten they have good friends in Philadelphia, for we
can tell you that, although we live a great way off, we
think a great deal about you. Our people often meet to
talk over Indian affairs and see how we can help you,
and it was when our people were together lately they
thought they could do no other than write you a letter,
not to Newtown people only, but to all the Indians in
Allegheny and Cattaraugus Reservations. We knew you
were in trouble, and we hoped to be able to give you
good advice. We now have come to bring the letter.
We have come in love, and hope your hearts will be open

Age 49 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 169
to hear us and to hear the letter. I will now read the
letter. The reading was proceeded with and listened to with
great attention, after which J. S. Elkinton told of his
feelings on meeting with the company. Afterwards
James E. Rhoads made some remarks.
Fourth month 10.
My dear Friend : Thy kind letter of Second month 10,
1879, reached me in Iowa. I prized it not only for the
interesting account it gave of objects connected with the
institution at Tunesassa, but all the more for the sym
pathetic interest in my right getting along in that distant
part of the heritage, where I found a body of friends who
received me with openness and were disposed to assist me
in getting from place to place, and in all places I was
treated with kindness and hospitality. Each of the three
Monthly Meetings seems to have a range of territory in
which are those dissatisfied with their old associations
and seeking that which looks to them more spiritual and
more in consistency with the profession ever made by
true Friends since the rise of the Society. There ap
pear to be a goodly number coming out in the ministry,
that instructors may not be wanting. But the experienced
fathers, shepherds and overseers of the flock do not grow
up in a day, and more of these would be of service to
the church. One of the most enjoyable sights to me
was the young people at the First-day morning meet
ing, after the Quarterly Meeting ; and that meeting closed

170 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1879
with sweetness, and we had some other seasons of favor.
A religious opportunity at Evan Smith's was a season
not likely to be soon forgotten, and we were at Margaret
Pearson's, where our sympathies were drawn out; but it
did not seem a time for much utterance. Deep calling
unto deep as it were, there is that that can see and feel in
secret, committing one another to the keeping of Israel's
Shepherd. We attended twenty-two meetings in all in
Iowa, some of them appointed meetings, and I found
Joseph Walton a good helper in the work. We were at
Salem and Muscatine, out in the Bear Creek neighbor
hood; also in Warren county, then in Marshall county,
among the Norwegians. Were in Iowa twenty-eight
days, and saw a good deal in the limits of Salem Quar
terly Meeting, Ohio. We spent about an equal amount
of time in each quarter. The mud would not let us get
on very rapidly. Returned home a week ago to-day
(Fourth month 3d), and I trust with thankful hearts
for the favors received and for those extended to my
family. . . . Joseph S. Elkinton.
Fifth month 5. At our last Quarterly Meeting, when
in the course of reading the minutes of the last meeting,
liberating me for my religious visit, I reported that,
shortly after our previous Quarterly Meeting, I started
on the visit in order to attend Salem Quarterly Meeting,
Ohio, which was held the same week as our own, and
was joined a few days later by our friend, Joseph Wal
ton, who obtained a minute from his Monthly Meeting

Age 49 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 171
to accompany me. We attended the meetings belonging
to Salem Quarter with the exception of one, which was
left until our return, and held three public meetings.
The remembrance of some of the tendering and instruc
tive seasons witnessed was precious, and the manner in
which we were helped over that field is cause for humble
admiration. We passed on to Iowa in time for the Quar
terly Meeting there, which we found a large and growing
body. It, with its subordinate meetings, which we at
tended, were conducted with weight and dignity. We
were impressed with the important and responsible posi
tion which they occupy, the three Monthly Meetings being
situated from forty to sixty miles apart and some of their
members being considerably in the distance. There was
a harvest field there of no ordinary character, and whilst
mistakes may have been made, there was a living concern
for the prosperity of Zion and for the enlargement of her
borders. In visiting the distant points we necessarily
traveled over considerable ground, holding public meet
ings by the way. In all places we were received with
kindness and a disposition to grant us the use of the
meeting houses and give notice of the same, helping us
on our way, and we parted with friendly and comfortable
feelings. Returning through Salem Quarter (Ohio), we
held four public meetings and attended the meeting at
Sewickley, the only meeting now left of what was once
a large Quarterly Meeting. Considering the natural ad
vantages of that country, we were led to inquire the cause

172 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1879
of the general desertion, and were told that the extension
of the mining interest had brought in a class of popula
tion, under whose influence Friends thought is undesir
able to bring up their children. It was a great satisfaction
to me to have been allowed the opportunity of carrying
out a concern which had been long resting on my mind,
and for the help given me I felt grateful.
325 Pine Street, Philadelphia,
Eighth month 15, 1879.
Dear Aunt R. Patterson : I have a sympathy for thee
in thy exercised condition, not knowing where will be thy
abiding place, and which must necessarily be dependent
upon circumstances. There is certainly a place for us
in this state of being. We were not created in vain, and
it is written, "The Lord's arm is not shortened that it
cannot save, nor his ear grown heavy that it cannot
hear." Those widows who are left without much of
this world's goods seem to be in special need of the
protecting care and guiding hand of Israel's Shepherd,
but if they fear the Lord, they may hope in his mercy.
And with all our tribulations and pressures and straits
and requisitions, it is better to be under the harrow than
to be left to ourselves in an easy, full, lukewarm or in
different state. It would be better to be in prison with
a sense of Divine support than to have all ease without
it. I want thee to keep close to the Master, that his
blessing may be upon thee and thy child, and I want all

Age 49 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 173
who would be thy friends to consider thee and remember
what is declared to be pure religion, undefiled before the
Father, and strive to know what their individual part is.
So far as I now see, my part will be to send thee a check,
which I now enclose, and when I have anything further
to communicate, will hold myself open for it.
In sincerity, Joseph S. Elkinton.
At a Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadelphia, held
Eleventh month 27, 1879 :
Our beloved friend, Joseph S. Elkinton, a minister in unity
with us, informed this meeting that he felt an apprehension of
duty to hold a few appointed meetings along the border of the
Susquehanna, particularly near the boundary of Maryland also
one or two with Friends and others near Winchester, Virginia,
and a few in the city of Baltimore. This prospect claiming the
serious consideration of this meeting, sympathy and unity with
him therein were felt and expressed, and he was liberated and
encouraged to attend thereto as best wisdom may direct. A copy
of this minute is directed to be furnished him, signed on our
behalf. Taken from the minutes.
George J. Scattergood, Clerk.
Charles J. Allen,
Correspondent.
Twelfth month. In the Twelfth month, 1879, I was
engaged with Henry Wood in a religious visit along the
Susquehanna river, and held a public meeting near Co-
lora, and then went over into Gideon Smith's neighbor
hood, on the other side of the river. We were told that
the Susquehanna river was lower than it had been for
seventy-two years. The wells in Darlington, Md., were
dry. During our stay in the neighborhood of Winchester

174 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1879
we were told that during the late war that place had
changed hands seventy-four times. Whilst out on this
journey we had a meeting at the Meeting House belong
ing to the colored people on Sharpe street, Baltimore.
After the permission had been given us to hold the
meeting, I felt I had better go and see the house and,
finding tbe pulpit fixed up rather luxuriously, I arranged
with the sexton to have some chairs placed below the
pulpit for us, facing the people. The sexton told me that
the ministers were in conference in an adjoining building,
and suggested my meeting with them. Henry Wood
suggested our inviting James Carey to accompany us,
which we did, and we entered the place where they were
assembled. The president read the Scriptures and en
gaged in prayer. The ministers gave in a little statement
of the leading points of their exercises in their congrega
tions the previous day, without going into much details.
Some little comment was made as they went along, but
no severe criticism. They seemed to be in a good spirit
and acted with dignity as if they were under a sense of
their responsibilities. I made some remarks, and Henry
Wood, who had gotten under exercise, spoke excellently
to a point previously under discussion. He was favored
with a remarkable opening on the outpouring of the Spirit
on the day of Pentecost, and in the course of his com
munication he said : "Have we an account of any greater
manifestation of Divine power, under the law, or any
other dispensation, than that which is given us in the

Age 49 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 175
gospel, of the outpouring of the Spirit on the day of Pen
tecost, when men spake in such a way that they were
understood by different nations?" Henry Wood spoke
for perhaps twenty minutes. An opportunity was given
to have our certificates read and to state that our minds
were impressed to hold a meeting that evening in the
meeting house adjoining. The way was made quite open
for us.
We stated that we mentioned the matter, that if it met
with their approval, we might have their sympathy. As
the time for holding the meeting approached, Henry
Wood felt rather discouraged lest we could not hold
control of the meeting, but that they might start up some
singing or something of the kind, but I desired we might
keep the faith, and I think we were helped. My brother
Thomas, Charles J. Allen and George J. Scattergood came
down to Baltimore to attend it.
After taking our seats in the chairs that had been
arranged below the pulpit for us, the minister came down
and asked me if I would open the meeting, and I said,
"Yes!" I had never made such an answer in similar
circumstances, but it seemed to me best to do so on that
occasion, as I feared if they started any exercise to which
Henry Wood was unaccustomed, he might be jostled. So
I arose and said, in substance, that we had come to that
city under a sense that it was a time of visitation to the
people there of Divine love and mercy, and we wanted
to meet with them to hold a meeting for worship, but I

176 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1879
could not tell them just what the nature of the exercises
might be or whether there would be any. I added that
there was one of their people who came into our city
holding meetings, and on one occasion when the people
seemed a little unsettled, she said: "If they did not keep
quiet, endeavoring to worship our Creator, that she
could not tell what the mind of the Spirit would be;"
and that I believed if we would all gather into the
quiet, endeavoring to worship our Creator, that we would
not spend the evening in vain. We had a solid silence
for about twenty minutes when Henry Wood was engaged
in supplication, which tended to deepen the meeting. I
followed him in testimony, commencing with the words,
"I love the Lord because he hath heard my voice and
my supplication." After this Henry Wood spoke. His
mind was led into doctrinal subjects, and he certainly
covered a great deal of ground, and had the ear of the
audience. Occasionally one would go out and return,
bringing with him twenty or thirty persons, so that on
the whole it was a large meeting. Before the meeting
closed I engaged in supplication, craving that the church
might be endued with power from on high. As we
walked from the meeting, which was two and a quarter
hours long, Henry Wood remarked that he thought it
about the best meeting we had held. I rated the day as
one of the most interesting that I had known whilst out
in the service of Truth.
Twelfth month 18. Attended meeting in Baltimore, in

Age 49 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 177
which our dear friend, Henry Wood, was acceptably
engaged in the ministry. I believe I never traveled with
any one who kept his bow more steadily strung. When
we went into a Friend's house he would seek to know
whether any religious service was required of him before
he could engage in ordinary conversation. We returned
home on the afternoon of the 18th, having dined with
Dr. James Carey Thomas and wife.
Twelfth month 26. Went to Salem to attend the fu
neral of Hannah Smith, whose maiden name was Tyler.
She was a niece of Lucia Elkinton, the second wife of
my grandfather, Asa Elkinton. In my boyhood days
cousin Hannah (Tyler) Smith and her son Clement lived
with her sister, Mary Tyler, over Peter Williamson's
drug store, at the corner of Second and Almond streets,
which was near where grandmother Elkinton and aunt
Hannah Gillespie lived, also aunt Hannah Davis, who
was a daughter of Lucia Elkinton, thus my father's step
sister. The families were very intimate, and I think they
continued to live in that locality after the death of grand
mother and her sister, aunt Hannah Gillespie, who both
died the same evening, the former in the eightieth, and
the latter in the ninetieth year of her age. Both had been
crippled by a fall, one three years and the other five years
before their death. There was one funeral for the two
sisters, who were buried in the graveyard at Sixteenth
and Cherry streets.
William Evans was remarkably favored at the time of

178 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1880
the funeral in speaking to a mixed company. My father
adverted to his communication as being very impressive
to him, and he admired the Divine power manifested in
enabling him to speak so appropriately. Grandmother
was associated with the Hicksites. The Smith and Tyler
families afterward moved to Marshall street, near Noble,
and became members of North Meeting.
First month 13, 1880. After a meeting held among the
other branch of Friends (Hicksites), a number came up
and spoke as if the meeting had been a comfort to them
and showed me marked kindness. I hope ever to be
preserved from being lifted up or taken off my feet by
the approval or praise of men, but rather to be found
seeking that honor that cometh from God only. But I
want attention turned to those places or communities
where there may be felt any drawings of the Spirit to
visit, believing that there are places where the Lord has
a work going forward among the people, inclining their
hearts unto his love, and I trust unto a patient waiting
for Christ, in whom there may be in some cases more
of a true belief than we might suppose.

CHAPTER VII.
Religious Visits in Pennsylvania and New York.
Second month 2, 1880. Our Quarterly Meeting was
held, among others present were father and mother Pat
terson. After the second meeting some one remarked
to father Patterson that mother Patterson had accepted
an invitation to dine with Abigail Wood, when he re
marked, "If Rachel is going, I will go too." His son-in-
law, John G. Haines, walked with him to Abigail Wood's.
On entering the house, father spoke of feeling very tired.
In the hall he took off his overcoat and hat, then, reaching
for his cane, he fell over. John G. Haines caught him,
but father had suddenly breathed his last. Mother Pat
terson was in the dining-room and, being called, quickly
came, but not in time to see him alive. It was a sudden
shock to us — for him to go out of the house with me in
the morning, and to have his remains brought home in
the evening in a box. How little we know in the morning
as to what the day may bring forth !
Second month 6. We had a large collection of Friends
to-day at father Patterson's funeral, which took place at
our house, 325 Pine street. There were about eighteen
ministers present. Mother Patterson first broke silence,
speaking with force and clearance. "The Lord gave, the
Lord hath taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord."
179

180 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1880
She spoke of their being blessed together many years.
Phebe A. Elkinton, Morris Cope, Elizabeth Allen, Wil
liam Kite, brother Tilman Patterson, Henry Wood, Sarah
A. Collins, Debbie Cope, Marshall Fell, John S. Stokes
had offerings, either in the line of testimony or suppli
cation. The burial was at Sixteenth and Cherry streets, and
the grave within a short distance of where my father and
mother were interred, they two being in one grave.
Father Patterson's grave was at the commencement of
a row starting south from the centre walk or drive.
Eleventh month ii. At our Meeting for Worship held
to-day there were an unusual number of children present.
Mother Patterson's heart was opened toward them in an
affectionate manner, and she desired that all might im
prove their opportunities. She commenced with, "What
thou doest, do with thy might." I felt constrained to
follow in supplication under a sense that the tender mer
cies of the Lord were over all his works.
Extract from a letter written by J. S. E. First month
13, 1881:
The Indians are advancing, and I want to see them
treated properly. Christianity has more place with them
than in time past, and there are those among them who
are doubtless designed as instruments for good in the
Divine hand; we met with a number that we felt to be
near the kingdom. Owen Blacksnake and wife came to
meeting while we were at Tunesassa, and it was a com-

Age 51 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 181
fort to me to have their company. Owen told me how
he felt, and I was satisfied he was not long for this world.
He has since deceased. One of our friends wrote that
his funeral was the largest among the Indians. A short
time before his death he went into an Indian house and,
seeing a Bible on the table, asked if that book told about
Jesus. On being answered "Yes," he said, "Good book;
I am going to see Jesus." — J. S. E.
325 Pine Street.
Philadelphia, First month 13, 1881.
Chief Joseph Onesakenrat:
Respected Friend: I was very glad to get thy note, for
it would seem by that thou hast reached thy own home
in safety. I stood and watched thee and thy companions
returning to Cornwall Island, on the ice, on the morning
of the 26th of last month, until there was danger of my
taking cold. My secret desires were that you all might be
preserved through the dangers of that day, and in mercy
your lives be spared, not only to get to your home, but
also be made, in the future, a blessing to your people.
I did receive two copies of the "Iroquois Gospel," but
had so much to attend to since my return home that I
did not get them acknowledged. I am very much obliged
for thy attention.
Hoping the blessing of the Lord may be with thee, and
with thy family and people.
I am thy friend, Joseph S. Elkinton.

182 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1881
First month 21, 1881. George J. Scattergood and I
returned last night from a trip among the Indians on
Long Island. We had two meetings among the Shine-
cock Indians and one among a band of about fifty at
Poosepattuck, about eight miles from Yaphank, that we
knew nothing of before we reached Long Island. These
meetings were held to satisfaction and it was a very
interesting visit, there being real piety found amongst
them. One, Betsey Cuffee, aged about eighty-five, was
especially interesting, of whom is the following little
account :
This dear woman, Betsey Cuffee, is a believer in secret
prayer; she told us that when she first became serious,
her husband was far from being a religious man, and she
prayed that he might be a Christian, and when he became
so, she prayed for her children and had the satisfaction
of having them all, as she said, members of the church.
Her husband was a deacon in it. She spoke as one who
had seen many tribulations, but her stay seemed to be in
the Lord, in whose mercy she had hope. She spoke of
entertaining good people in her house and always willing
to share what she had. She was evidently concerned for
the welfare of her people.
She also told of a minister who came amongst them to
end his days, and when near his end he got up from his
deathbed and went upon his knees, and prayed that the
tribe might be blessed.

Age 51 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 183
Extract from a letter dated Second month 17, 1881, by
J. S. E.:
After leaving Dunkirk last month, Joseph Walton and
I proceeded to Canada and had an interesting visit with
the Indians on the Grand River Reservation, and thence
to the St. Regis and Oneida Indians. We were out forty-
five days and had, in the course of our journeyings, con
siderable exposure and some perils, but the retrospect
affords us peace and comfort. We had some very
interesting opportunities, one meeting in particular on
Cornwall Island I never expect to forget, for on that
memorable occasion I felt that there was but a step
between us and death. Since our return we have heard
of the death of Chief Joseph Onesakenrat, who was at
the meeting and was engaged in prayer, as well as vocal
exercise; he had been instrumental in gathering some of
the Indians on that island from under the influence of
the priest, among whom is Michael Benedict, the principal
man on the island, one of tender, loving spirit, and it was
in his house the meeting was held. — J. S. E.
Second month 24. I was engaged to-day in meeting to
speak on the passage : "Children, obey your parents in all
things, for this is well-pleasing to the Lord" ; also dwelt
on "Honor thy father and thy mother that thy days may
be long in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee."
After addressing the children to some length, I turned
to the condition of the shepherds who were watching
over the flock at night, when there was a light which did

184 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1881
shine above them, the glory of the Lord was about them
when an angel spake to them : "I bring you good tidings
of great joy which is to all people, unto you is born this
day, in the city of David, a Saviour, which is Christ the
Lord." My heart was knit in an especial manner to some
in younger life, believing that the door was now open for
them to take hold of the mercies of the Lord, which were
now extended, and they might take comfort in that it was
for all people the glad tidings were declared.
At a Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadelphia, Fourth
month 28, 1881.
Our beloved friend, Joseph S. Elkinton, informed this meet
ing that he had felt his mind drawn towards the inhabitants
of some of the towns and villages located within the limits
of Exeter and Muney Monthly Meetings, and that he believed
that it would be right for him to appoint some public meetings
within and adjoining those limits. This prospect claiming our
weighty consideration, sympathy and unity with him therein were
expressed, and he was liberated and encouraged to pursue it, as
Truth may open the way, he being a minister in unity with us. A
copy of this minute was directed to be furnished him, signed on
our behalf. Taken from the minutes.
George J. Scattergood, Clerk.
Charles J. Allen,
Correspondent.
Fifth month 4. Attended the funeral of Susan Cozens,
held at the Meeting House at Chester, Pa., at 2.30 P. M.
Fifth month. For some time I have felt a concern for
holding some Meetings for Worship in the vicinity of
Muney and Exeter, more particularly among the German

Age 51 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 185
Lutherans, but have rather held back from starting out
on this service, but it now seems as if the time were at
hand. Should I be allowed the company of such an
experienced workman as Elwood Dean, I believe the good
cause would be helped, although I trust neither of us
would depend upon one another for that which can only
come from the true source. Should Elwood Dean's
Monthly Meeting feel easy to liberate him to pursue the
line of service in these parts as way may open, it will be
very grateful to me. — J. S. E.
Fifth month n. Elwood Dean and uncle Jesse De
wees are with us. We had a favored time at the
breakfast table; both Elwood Dean and myself were
engaged in supplication. I felt constrained to express
my gratitude for the visitations so mercifully granted to
our family of late, and petitioned the Lord that the
angel of his presence might be round about those who
went out before the people, and also those who remained
at home.
Eighth month 26. Yesterday came to Catawissa and
made arrangements for a meeting to be held this eve
ning. The house was well filled and we had a good
meeting. The people were certainly very attentive.
There were a good many boys assembled outside, who
were persuaded to come in. Some were disposed to
ridicule, saying, "We are going to have a Quaker Meet
ing." I answered them, saying, "Yes, we are going to

186 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1881
have a Quaker Meeting; now let us go in and see what
a Quaker Meeting is."
Extract from a letter Eighth month, 1881 :
The meeting held at Catawissa was in a very old log
meeting house, belonging to Friends formerly. The
next morning we had a mountainous ride of fifteen miles
to Roaring Creek, and sat in a house much like the one
at Catawissa, built in 1796. Many more were present
than we expected, and it was a precious meeting. I shall
long remember the tender feelings and sweetness of the
occasion. Elwood Dean was very earnest and plain in
his communication. Being nestled in the woods the situa
tion of the house was very pretty. — J. S. E.
Eighth Month 28, 1881.
My dear Wife: Thy feeling letter of 24th was duly
received and very acceptable. Thy letter received yes
terday, telling of Sarah A. Deacon's sudden call, is very
affecting. As I bid her farewell, the words were on the
end of my tongue, and I cannot tell whether I really
expressed them or not, but I felt like saying to her,
"This is the last time we shall see each other." There is
an indistinct recollection of her responding to something
I said, that she hoped we should see each other again
and the conversation was extended a little farther.
Well, my dear, let us strive to keep nearer the Fountain
head, in which exercise we may be blessed together. I
believe I thought of thee in meeting to-day as much as I
have ever done before, and was clothed with the spirit of

Age 51 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 187
prayer, and gave some expression in that line. Elwood
Dean followed in testimony. There were about one hun
dred present. One after another of our dear friends are
being removed. We have had much to experience in that
line, but we and our children, save dear little Thomas,
are still spared. May we be blessed together and have
the satisfaction of knowing all to be walking in the Truth,
and ripening for the Heavenly garner. We have lived
together nearly twenty-five years, been partakers of many
exercises, but we have reason to believe the Lord has
not forsaken us, and will He not support us?
With love, thy husband,
J. S. E.
Eighth month 30, 1881.
My dear Wife : My mind has been much on the funer
al of our dear friend, S. A. Deacon. There is something
precious in the thought of falling in the harness, or of
being found at our post at the call of our Lord. I had
a good deal of a struggle, traveling through the dust
yesterday, between having my mind on the funeral at
Germantown and the preparation for the work of the
evening, and Elwood Dean had enough to do to get his
mind quiet. He went to bed the first thing on getting to
the hotel, but the bathtub was the first place for me and
then supper, after which I had an hour for rest before
the meeting. With love, thy husband,
J. S. E.

188 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1881
Ninth month 5.
My dear Wife: I parted with our son Joseph this
morning at Canton with rather a heavy heart, for I
wanted him to go on to Tunesassa with us, knowing his
heart was in it, and Elwood Dean also regretted his
leaving us.
Riding in the cars to Elmira from Canton the language,
"As a father pitieth his children," was very pleasant with
me ; and all our children were brought to view in as close
and dear a manner as I ever remember and with an in
creased love. I think the value of them ever increases
in our eyes. Whilst I really wanted Joseph to go on with
us, I could not insist, for we heard that they had typhoid
fever at Tunesassa. We have been exposed to malarial
fever, smallpox and considerable dust and heat, and it is
likely we are to meet with some more of the miseries
mankind is subject to, but if our son had taken up with
any of the evils named, there would doubtless have been
sorrow enough in the camp. Mercury to-day 95° in the
shade. With love, thy husband,
J. S. E.
Tunesassa, Ninth month 10, 1881.
My dear Wife : Thou wrote me an excellent letter on
the 3d inst, our twenty-fifth anniversary, for which I
was truly obliged. I have it not by me just now, but the
spirit of it is very fresh, and whilst I did not employ my
time in writing to thee on that day, nor could I say that
my thoughts were on the subject that particular day, yet

Age 51 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 189
some days before it was a good deal with me, contem
plating what we had witnessed, and our being yet spared
together. Sincere and, I trust, devout feelings of thank
fulness were experienced for that which does make us
one another's joy in the Lord. I have never known any
greater depth of feeling in that oneness which those feel
who are truly united than at this time, the experience of
which is very confirming as to our belonging one to the
other, of which there never was a doubt since our union ;
but then it is precious, not only to be baptized together,
but to feel that we are one and that the blessing of the
Lord has not been withheld, and whatever may yet be
suffered to overtake us, we may hope in the mercy and
goodness of the Lord, whose blessing alone can make
truly rich. I cannot write more in this line, although my
heart is full of feeling. When I said I must write to
thee, Uncle Jesse said, "Be sure and send my love."
"Yes," I said, "on first page and first thing, so as to be
sure and get it done." But then my own love is the
strongest and so overshadowed his message that I forgot
it until I had something written for myself.
Thine of the 8th inst. was handed me this morning,
and I was hungry for it. Ninety-seven degrees is the
highest I have seen the mercury since coming here. El
wood Dean and I have been quite becalmed since Fifth-
day morning. Whether the weather has had anything to
do with it or not, we have found the easiest thing to
do was to spend much of the time on the lounge. I have

190 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1881
felt glad that we went to Cornplanter's on Fourth-day
and made some calls on the way, especially on Cynthia
Gordon. Fifth-day morning we had Indians here from different
parts of the Reservation, Cynthia Gordon from Corn-
planter's, Laura Jimerson Huff from Oldtown, Wallace
Jimerson and wife from Red House, and they brought
with them Wallace's grandfather, William Patterson, the
oldest Indian on the Reservation; they say he is ninety-
six years of age. The afternoon was pretty much spent
in conversation, somewhat of a religious character, so it
was a pretty full day's service.
The situation here has been very grave, the wells at
the barn are dry, also the well at the house, and a very
small amount of water in the cistern for rain water. No
water at either of the tenement houses, and the only well
available for the institution is one at the foot of the hill
behind the house, from which four families now get their
supply. The creek can be walked over without wetting
one's boots, and the Indians say they have never seen
the river so low. Last week things were alarming. Fire
in the woods approached so near that much timber and
some fencing on the farm were destroyed, and in one
place the fire was within three hundred or four hundred
yards of the buildings. The rain on the night of the 1st
inst. put out the fire. I fear the low state of the water
and another cause had something to do with the sickness
here the past season, and the Committee will have some-

Age 51 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 191
thing to do to get things into better shape. Early this
morning E. Dean said he felt easy to move on toward
Salem, and wished me to go with him. I said it was rbo
foggy and cloudy to start ; I wanted a little daylight and
a little strength and we had better stay until Second-day,
to which he settled down gracefully. Keep patient, my
dear ; I think thou will see me settled down at home yet.
I intend to give up my minute at our next Monthly
Meeting. With love to all, thy loving husband, J. S. E.
Extract from a letter, dated Tenth month 15, 1881 :
I traveled round with our friends, Elwood Dean and
Jesse Dewees, until I saw them in their own land, and
then parted in the fellowship of the Gospel. We spent
over six weeks attending meetings, in which we were
favored with Divine support, and found an open door
among the people. We were in Berks, Lycoming and
Northampton counties of this state and at about six
meetings in Ohio. In sincerity, thy friend,
Joseph S. Elkinton.
First month i, 1882. We had a good meeting to-day
at Orange Street. I engaged in prayer, it being the first
time I have appeared in vocal service in my meeting for
months. The sense of the Good Master's presence was
very sweet and precious to me.
Extract from a letter to Joseph Stratton, First month
23, 1882:

192 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1882
What a blessing it is to have a heart that is not only
open, but capable of appreciating the blessings, temporal
and spiritual, that are bestowed upon us, and to know
something of thanksgiving under a sense of the Lord's
mercies. It is one thing to be witness of the mercies and
power of the Most High and another thing to abide the
varied appointments of the Lord without murmurings or
without suffering anything to come between us and our
Maker. "The Lord is my strength and my song, and He
is become my salvation." I hear thou art preparing for
a journey to the West with our dear friend, Elwood
Dean. May the Lord be with you in your going out and
in your coming in, and be your strength and support.
Remember the cold weather and keep prudence aboard
the ship, for it is written that "Wisdom does dwell with
prudence." We have bodies as well as souls.
Joseph S. Elkinton.
Extract from a letter to E. P. and C. V. Sellew at the
time of the death of one or more of their children, dated
Philadelphia, First month 29, 1882 :
During the past week the expression of our Saviour
has been much before me: "My soul is exceeding sor
rowful," also "The cup which my father hath given me,
shall I not drink it ?" But little did I know of your expe
rience until our friend, Joseph Walton, handed me the
letter yesterday which told of your trials. I desire to
offer the word of sympathy so far as we are capable of
feeling, and am not altogether without knowing some-

Age 52 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 193
thing whereof I speak ; having lost one child as a father
I know of the hold the children have on one's affections.
I admired the support with which my dear wife was
favored on that solemn occasion, and that the young may
be favored with the streams of consolation from the
Author of all good, who can fill the blank which He
himself createth, is the breathing of my spirit. There are
seasons of favor when our hearts turn toward our chil
dren and more directly toward Him who gave them life
and withal an immortal soul. We can bless his great
and holy name.
But when a separation is threatened, to know of that
resignation of which we may have preached even before
the congregation, or when the Great Creator and Disposer
of all things recalls his gifts, to be able not only to say,
"Thy will be done," but to rejoice that we had such
offerings of the Lord's own preparing to offer, does
require faith and an attainment of the Apostolic injunc
tion, "In everything give thanks, for this is the will of
God concerning you." We cannot tell what the children
may have been spared by their removal, nor what use
the Almighty designs for us to make of that time and
strength which, had they lived, should have been ex
pended upon them ; only in this we may rest assured, that
as the anointing is with us and in us, we shall be taught
of the Lord, of his ways and his will, as we are able to
receive and bear it. In sincerity,
Joseph S. Elkinton.

194 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1882
First month. As I was going into Arch Street Meeting
this morning a friend greeted me and said he was at Pine
Street Meeting the day my father first appeared in sup
plication which made a great impression on his mind. I
suppose that must have been about fifty-eight years ago,
for father did appear in the ministry when a young man
for a few years. He occasionally spoke in families, but
I have no recollection of hearing him offer vocal service
in Meetings for Worship. I have no doubt his early
experience was a good preparation for the office of Elder
to which he was appointed about the year 1844.
Second month 23. In our Monthly Meeting for busi
ness, a minute was granted me to hold public meetings
and perform other religious service on Long Island as
Truth opened the way.
Third month 3. Left home Third month 3, 1882, to
pay a religious visit on Long Island. I met Edward
Maris in New York, and we went direct to Flushing,
L. I., and were received with marked kindness by Dr.
Stephen Wood. Flushing is a good deal to New York
what Chestnut Hill is to Philadelphia — a place for the
wealthy to resort, but not very flourishing ground for
Quakerism. Dr. Wood has a fine collection of ancient
Friends' works.
There is in Flushing an old mansion well kept up,
where George Fox made his home when he was on the
island, and some of his letters are still there. An ancient
meeting house, where the Yearly Meeting was once held,

Age 52 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 195
is still standing, and the grounds and graveyard appear
in creditable condition. On the 8th we were at Glen
Cove College, where a meeting was granted us with the
students, who behaved well. That evening we had a
good and satisfactory meeting at Westbury. Next morn
ing I called on an aged Friend of ninety-two, who was
bright in her faculties and conversed interestingly. She
attended the meeting on Fifth-day morning with one of
her granddaughters.
We traveled into Yaphank and were hospitably and
creditably entertained at the County Poor House, which
institution is well managed ; about eighty inmates who do
a good deal of farm work, basket making, etc. From that
institution we went to a sort of Orphanage, which seemed
more for the poor of the county under sixteen years;
they had a religious matron. The children recited the
XXIII Psalm, and they did a little singing, which I had
no wish for them to exercise on my account. Visited the
Indian school at Poosepattach and had some religious
service, and then passed on through Moriches to South
ampton, getting our dinner by the way about 4 P. M.
We rode through a great deal of rain in an open wagon,
so a little fire and dinner were good for us. Arrived
at Southampton in the evening and made arrangements
for a meeting among the Presbyterians for the next eve
ning, where about two hundred were present. The doc
trines of the atonement, the divinity of our Saviour, the
inspiration of the Scriptures, baptism and the doctrine

196 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1882
of the universal saving light were all dwelt upon. On
First-day two meetings were held among the Indians, and
we visited perhaps twenty of their houses and had some
very interesting opportunities with them.
On my way home from Long Island, I was favored
with comfortable feelings. — J. S. E.
Third month 30. At Monthly Meeting to-day I re
turned my minute, telling Friends that I had visited all
the places I had in mind when the minute was granted.
I had been accompanied by Edward Maris, and we had
been kindly received. A disposition was shown to open
the way for the prosecution of the concern, and public
meetings had been held, apparently to the comfort of
those concerned, and I had been permitted to return with
quiet and comfortable feelings.
Memorandum from Cynthia Gordon concerning her
daughter : Fourth month 8, 1882.
The Lord hath visited us by death; He has taken our
daughter away. She died yesterday, about 2 o'clock in
the afternoon, and is to be buried to-morrow. Meeting
for funeral will be at 11 o'clock, if nothing prevents.
We have this belief — that she was prepared for death,
and that she has gone to be forever with the redeemed.
We noticed a change had taken place in her mind some
time ; that she was trying to be the Lord's child, and was
comforted when she knew she had been trying to be
good, and that the Lord had helped her to overcome her

Age 52 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 197
sins. She had a great love for her brother, who, she
knew, is not trying to do as he ought, and often felt
troubled on his account, and would ask me to talk to
him, encourage him to do right, that we may all meet in
heaven. Night before last, as her father and myself were sitting
by her bedside, she encouraged me to do all I could for
her brother, that he too might be saved from everlasting
punishment; that we may all meet in heaven, and then
inquired where he was, and we called him to her bed
side, and she called him by name and addressed him with
these same words above, with the addition that "this is
not hard."
Copy of a letter from Cynthia Gordon* to R. S. Allen :
Cornplanter's, Sixth month 2, 1882.
Dear Friend: I have received thy acceptable letter
soon after date. In answer to thy question, I will say
my desires to be received into membership with Friends
are the same. I have no wish to change my mind, for I
see the truthfulness of the doctrines and testimonies of
Friends more and more, and it is my desire, day by day,
to come clean out of the ways of the world.
My husband asked me the other day what I should do
if I were not to be received. "Oh !" I said, "I could not

*Cynthia Gordon, a Seneca Indian, a descendant of Corn-
planter, eventually became a member of the Monthly Meeting of
Friends of Philadelphia. She sustained an excellent character
among her people, and during the few remaining years of her
life was in close sympathy with the Friends at Tunesassa.

198 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1882
go back to where I had been ; I would be a Quaker still."
I cannot believe those things again that I used to believe,
nor do the things that I used to do, so I do not see how
I could be otherwise. My greatest object is to belong to
the True Church of Christ, and if I am inwardly, it does
not make much difference if I should not be received
outwardly. Sometimes I think I am making too much trouble for
the Friends. I am living so far away from your meet
ings, and it is adding to their many cares, as I see in the
pamphlet about the Yearly Meeting they have much to
see to, so, if it should be rather a hard thing to do with,
never mind. I think it will be all right, for the same
care to be kept in the right path will always be necessary.
Try friend, Cynthia Gordon.
Sixth month 15. I felt my mind unusually attracted
to the children to-day in meeting, although I believe they
are always more or less on my mind; but as the schools
are about to vacate, it is probable that to some of us it
might prove a final parting. I desired a blessing on my
children and the children of others also. I wanted the
children supported in their various exercises that they
might be enabled to discharge their duties with fidelity ;
that they might mind the restraining as well as constrain
ing influences, and strive to conduct themselves in such
a way that they could ask for the divine blessing, and
that they might be preserved from unseen dangers.

CHAPTER VIII.
Various Visits to Indians and Elsewhere.
Sixth month 26. Extract from a letter to Clarkson
Sheppard from J. S. E. :
Dear Friend Clarkson Sheppard : I want some one
to write an essay for the invalids and those who may
be in suffering, to picture a little what visitors receive by
their bedside, the instruction from their conversation, the
savor of their spirits and the sense of the presence of the
Saviour. And there is another class to write for — those
who help the workers behind the scene, and who really
have no small influence in moulding and developing the
characters of the workers. I rather think that most of
the marked men and women before the world are those
who have been well supported by their companions,
children or intimate friends. Those who give the strength
of their spirits and their help deserve a kindly remem
brance. If no one would entertain or provide for our families,
or attend to our business in our absence, our chariot
wheels would drag much more heavily. One morning
my thoughts were running in this line and I thought I
must try and write, so I left my bed, dropped a few tears
and took up the pen. I think I did about as well as the
Friend who concluded to write a journal, so he began
199

200 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1882
by saying he was born of godly parents, for he thought
he could say that in truth ; then he could write no more,
and there he stopped. I thought I loved the children and
wrote a few lines and then I stopped, guessing I had bet
ter leave writing for those who knew how to write. So
do thou write on, for I cannot. I will send thee what I
started and thou canst see just how I fetched up ; it will
show thee I had one parent out in the service, and I verily
believe that both of my parents walked in the Truth and
wanted their children to do the same, but it does not fol
low that I will have much success, either in publishing
the word or in strengthening either the brethren or chil
dren. With love, J. S. E.
Seventh month 31. Came with mother Patterson to
the home of John G. Haines, leaving the city on the 5.30
train. After tea mother was walking on the porch, look
ing at the moon, which she thought had never appeared
more beautiful. She was also thinking of the transition
from time to eternity of Abigail Wood, when, not taking
heed to her steps, she made a misstep and fell off the
porch, about three feet to the ground, and broke both
bones of the right limb above the ankle, also the bone
of her left arm near the shoulder. We speedily obtained
Dr. Newlin Stokes from Moorestown, and made her as
comfortable as possible on a bed put up for her in the
parlor. Dr. Stokes wanted an experienced surgeon from
the city, so Dr. Ashhurst and a nurse came from the city

Age 52 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 201
next morning. Mother's sufferings were intense. Ether
was administered, which had the happy effect of not only
releasing her from the pain for the time being, but she
seemed to be in a state of melody, bringing out some
Scriptural passages in a very melodious manner. It is a
very serious dispensation to us and hard to bear to see
mother so broken up, but a great favor that she seems so
self-possessed, no murmuring; says she cannot ask why
it should be permitted, but supposes there must be some
good purpose intended.
Eleventh month 6. Near the close of the Quarterly
Meeting held to-day at Arch Street, my son Joseph spoke
in the line of the ministry, the subject-matter being in
the line of an address to the shepherds, that they might
stand and, through the help of Him who is all sufficient,
be able to minister to the needs of the flock.
Testimony of Joseph Elkinton, in the twenty-sixth
year of his age, at Philadelphia Quarterly Meeting Elev
enth month 6, 1882 :
"Ye watchmen who stand upon the walls, who cannot
cry peace in time of war, hold fast your faith in confi
dence : fear not, nor be dismayed, though the enemy come
in like a flood ; neither cast aside your shields as if they
had not been anointed, for the Lord will have the victory
in his own time, and his banner shall yet be exalted.
Verily, he knoweth those who stand in the gap and can
not hold their peace for Jesus Christ's sake."

202 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1882
Eleventh month 14, 1882.
Cynthia Gordon,
Dear Friend : My thoughts have often been with thee
since we saw each other last summer, with fervent de
sires for thy welfare in every way. No doubt thou hast
thy trials in life, and the necessary cares may be pretty
heavy sometimes; but when our Heavenly Father is
pleased to favor us with a sense of his love and good
ness, then hard things are made easy, and we can even
go and rejoice on our way. My mother-in-law met with
a bad accident soon after we returned from our visit to
Tunesassa, breaking three bones, but she is now able
to walk about the room a little, and we hope she will get
out again among her friends. I am glad that the knowl
edge of thy being a member of the Society of Friends
makes thee feel happy, and if we keep to the principles
and practices of the Society of Friends, I believe we shall
be truly happy in this world and in that world which is
to come. With love to thyself, husband and son.
Joseph S. Elkinton.
First month 3, 1883. Taking a copy of the "Selections
from the Writings of William Penn" to the Seaman's
Home, I had a very interesting conversation with the
secretary, and was pleased to find they were in the way
of keeping up small libraries of selected books to place
on board of vessels and to exchange them from time to
time. First month 6. William P. Townsend called this morn-

Age 52 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 203
ing and, in course of conversation, told me that during
the war, when the southern army entered Pennsylvania,
Ebenezer Worth prayed that it might not be permitted
to come east of the Susquehanna, and he vowed that if
they were turned back upon their own land, he would
give his corn crop to the poor, which he faithfully ful
filled, sending $2,000 to the suffering in Southern States.
Second month i. I think we were favored in our
meeting at Arch Street with a spirit of tenderness, and
I was engaged in supplication, desiring we might be
helped from on high.
Third month 12. This afternoon I went with brother
Thomas out to Media to see the house he has been build
ing there for a summer residence.
Fourth month. About the first of this month I rented
a house at 248 South Third street for the purpose of
making a temporary home for Friends visiting this city,
and have been busily engaged in getting it equipped. I
hope there may be something of a Divine blessing to
attend it.
Sixth month 8. Jonathan E. Rhoads called on me
to-day, stating he had obtained a minute from his
Monthly Meeting, liberating him to appoint public meet
ings within the limits of Salem Quarterly Meeting, New
Jersey, and he came to ask me to join him.
Sixth month 28. Obtained a minute from my Monthly
Meeting, liberating me to accompany Jonathan E. Rhoads
in the service in southern New Jersey.

204 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1883
Tenth month 5. I gave up my minute last Fifth-day
week, and Jonathan E. Rhoads gave up his day before
yesterday, and in each of our Monthly Meetings satis
faction was expressed with our reports. We had been
pretty well over the southern part of New Jersey, and
found openness in the people. We were accommodated
with meeting houses and entertained with marked hos
pitality; and what was more than all else, we were sup
ported in our engagements, although at times it was in
physical weakness that we pursued the concern. One
First-day we attended three meetings and traveled some
thirty-five miles in carriages.
First month 20. Attended the morning meeting at
Reading, in company with William U. Ditzler and El-
hanan Zook, and it was a season of favor. In the after
noon we went to the prison, where we had engaged to
hold a meeting with the prisoners at 2 P. M. and where
the following interest incident took place, which I will
quote from a memorial of William U. Ditzler: "While
engaged in preaching to the assembled prisoners at
Reading, Pa., several men and women from the town
being also present, he made some attempts to use his
customary expression, 'My brethren and sisters,' but felt
a stop in his mind before reaching the word 'sisters.' In
one instance near the end he succeeded in saying, 'My
brethren and sister,' but was prevented by the same check
from uttering the last of the words in the plural as 'sis
ters.' At the close of the meeting several who knew, as

Age 54 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 205
he did not, that among the four hundred in the audience,
some of them women, there was but one female prisoner,
expressed their admiration at his preservation in the
Truth. His only explanation could be that it was simply
by minding his Guide."
First month 30, 1884. I attended Twelfth Street
Meeting, and felt it my place to appear in supplication,
although the meeting was getting long. In the course
of my offering I craved that those who cared for and
prescribed for the sick should be favored with judg
ment, and that all might be supported in the discharge
of their responsibilities ; to be preserved from being car
ried off the foundation, or to a disinclination to gather
inward to the place of true waiting. I heard after meet
ing that one of their members had a very narrow escape
from death whilst under the influence of ether during
an operation. On finding he was apparently sinking, they
used great exertion and active measures to revive him
and finally succeeded, but it was a very serious case.
Second month 4. In the second or business meeting
of our Quarterly Meeting, a new appointment of a West
Philadelphia Meeting Committee was made, whereby I
was released. I had been on that committee five years,
and was interested in the meeting, and believe I endeav
ored to discharge my duty there to the best of my knowl
edge, which affords me comfort in the retrospect.
Second month 10. At our meeting at Orange Street,
as I entered the Meeting House it seemed to me that we

206 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1884
would have the Master with us, and I was led to speak
of the favor it is to be covered with an overshadowing
sense of Divine goodness and fee! the Saviour's pres
ence; and I had an opening on the language of our
Saviour to Peter, "I give unto thee the key of the king
dom of heaven." It was the sight and sense he had of
Jesus being the son of the living God, and this hold on
the Saviour is that which stands us instead, that we may
be built on Christ Jesus, the Rock of Ages, on whom the
Church is to be built, and the living members of the
Church are those who are rightly grounded in the truth
as it is in Jesus ; to know Him and to be revealed unto
them, as He was unto Peter.
In the afternoon meeting I was engaged in supplica
tion, that if consistent with the Divine will, we might be
favored with a greater measure of life and power, and
that He who could cause the mind to blow upon the dry
bones, and who could breathe at his pleasure, might
breathe on us and gather us.
Third month 21. At our Meetings for Sufferings, a
clear statement of the "Charleston Fund" was read,
showing how a grant was first made by the King through
the Governor of South Carolina to Thomas Kimberly and
others for a tract of land for a meeting house. T. K.
conveyed it to trustees, for the purpose originally granted,
some of whom died, and the property was held by one
trustee for a long time, but through the labors of Friends
of Philadelphia, at the request of Friends of London, it

Age 54 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 207
was redeemed and conveyed to trustees appointed by
Philadelphia Yearly Meeting.
At one time, however, it was in the hands of trustees
appointed by North Carolina Yearly Meeting, but by
decision or request of that Yearly Meeting it was recon-
veyed to trustees appointed by Philadelphia Yearly
Meeting, and by their influence an act was obtained from
the legislature of South Carolina, allowing some of the
accrued income to be expended for building, furnishing
and supporting Meeting Houses in any part of the United
States. One-third of the income has been expended in
assisting Meeting Houses in the limits of North Carolina
Yearly Meeting.
Third month 29. Went to Cape May to recruit a little,
my system being run down. Went to the house kept by
Henry Sawyer, who was a man in whom I had become
interested. H. S. had had the opportunities of knowing
the miseries of war, having been in many engagements.
He had been shot through the body, one bullet supposed
to be still in him. He was a prisoner nine months in Libby
prison, during which time an act of retaliation was de
cided upon because of two men having been executed
under the direction of General Burnside for recruiting
men in the northern line for the southern army, so it was
concluded to execute two captains, prisoners in Libby
prison, Henry Sawyer being one of the two drafted to be
thus put to death. He was allowed, however, to write
to his wife, telling her of his sentence and inviting her to

208 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1884
come and see him. The letter was shown to President
Lincoln, who sent word to the confederate authorities,
by flag of truce, that General Butler had orders that
whenever information (official or unofficial) came to
them of the killing of Captain Sawyer and his comrade,
to execute a son of General Lee and also one of the
generals who were prisoners at that time. This put a
stop to the affair and an exchange was afterwards made,
liberating H. Sawyer and his comrade. I asked H. S.
if he were not about ready to conclude that the welfare
of mankind would be promoted by the adoption of peace
able principles? He replied, "If mankind would be
governed by their conviction of right, we would have
a better time of it."
Fifth month 24. Having rented a house at Malvern
for the summer, went there with my dear wife, having
obtained a special car for her comfort. Dr. McCollin,
the nurse, and son William also accompanied her, brother
Thomas being very helpful in making the ride to the
station as comfortable as possible.
Sixth month 11. Attended the marriage of my son
Joseph with Sarah W. Passmore, at Concord Meeting
House. About sixty of us went from the city in a special
train to Concord, where we were suitably provided with
conveyances. The Meeting House was pretty well filled,
and the occasion was a favored one, very soon gathering
into a solemnity under which Richard Esterbrook spoke,
and in the course of it alluded to how we were favored

Age 54 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 209
with the presence of the Lord, and closed his communi
cation with speaking of the marriage supper of the Lamb.
Joseph and Sarah spoke as if they had a sense of what
they were undertaking, and could be heard. The certifi
cate was then signed and read, after which Elizabeth R.
Evans commenced her communication with "Be ye one
another's helpers in the Lord," and spoke of the need
the Church had for laborers. Clarkson Sheppard spoke
of the Lord's covenant being with the night as with the
day, and he revived the language, "As the eagle stirreth
up her nest and fluttereth over her young, beareth them
on her wings, so the Lord did lead His people, and there
was no strange God amongst them." Deborah Rhoads
was engaged in prayer that had a baptizing, solemnizing
influence, a feeling of unusual weight ensuing, under a
sense of which the meeting separated. At the house of
entertainment we had a very pleasant time, a season of
real enjoyment.
Sixth month 22. My son Joseph and his wife returned
to the city last evening, from Wernersville, and were at
meeting to-day; it was very pleasant to have them with
us, and I feel there is cause for thankfulness in that our
little band is strengthened by this marriage.
At a Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadelphia, held Eighth
month 28, 1884:
Our beloved friend, Joseph S. Elkinton, informed this Meeting
that, being under appointment of the Committee of the Yearly
Meeting to visit some of the Seneca Indians under the care of
that Meeting, he had felt that it might now be right to hold a

210 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1884
few public metings in southwestern New York, a concern which
he had felt for some years. The prospect claiming our deliberate
consideration, sympathy and unity with him were expressed, and
he was set at liberty to perform the service as best wisdom may
open the way, he being a minister in unity with us.
•A copy of this minute is directed to be furnished him and
signed on our behalf. Taken from the minutes.
George J. Scattergood, Clerk.
Eighth month 29. Left Malvern on the 7.14 train for
Frazer, where I was joined by our friend, George J.
Scattergood. We then proceeded on our journey to New
York State to visit the Indians under the care of our
Committee, and also to hold a few public meetings in the
southwestern part of the state. It was a pleasant day,
and we enjoyed the scenery.
Eighth month 30. On our arrival at Warren, called
on Judge Johnson in regard to the leasing of their lands
by the Indians to the whites. He said the offers made
to the Indians were so insufficient that he had discour
aged the Indians, who had conferred with him, from
making any leases without submitting them to his judg
ment. He said they should be drawn by a proper person.
There had been an oil well opened up a few miles from
Warren, towards Cornplanter's, that was said to yield
one hundred barrels an hour.
As we were about to leave Warren to go up to the
reservation, we met four men at the station who had
been trying to raise money to build a new Meeting House
at Cornplanter by holding concerts. I had some con-

Age 54 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 211
versation with two of them as to whether it would not
be better to raise money for such purposes by direct
contributions, or to wait until they could spare from the
fruit of their own labor.
Enjoyed the ride up the Allegheny river from Warren,
which was new ground and scenery to me. Through
courtesy, the train was stopped for us at Johnny Cake
station, opposite the reservation. We proceeded to
Cynthia Gordon's home, where we had a good dinner,
after which we went to the school house, where the
company gathered was not large, but we availed our
selves of the opportunity afforded to set forth the object
of our visit and to give the views of our Committee in
reference to the inexpediency of their leasing their lands
for oil purposes. Amongst the evils of such a course
was the introduction of a loose character of people, whose
influence would be exceedingly injurious to the morals
of their people, and they would be likely never to regain
possession of their lands. We had an exercising but
interesting opportunity and were heard with attention.
Some reply was made by which it appeared that what
we had laid before them had been kindly received. Susan
O. Bail, a daughter-in-law of Chief Cornplanter, who is
now about ninety years old, and one of the ancient type
of Indians, appeared quite roused in her spirit. She said
the Quakers had always been the friends of the Indians,
and she was glad we had come out, and she would have
her grandchildren mind what had been said. We had

212 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1884
reason to believe that two who had leased their land
to the whites were sorry. We pleaded with them not to
let go their hold on their possessions, both for their own
sakes and that of their children. We received a hearty
welcome and found no sickness at the institution at
Tunesassa. Eighth month 31. First-day afternoon Aaron P.
Dewees went with me to see the Indians, who were
engaged in playing ball. I saw as active a scene of ball
playing as I had ever before witnessed. Aaron said if
they would only work as they were then playing, he
would get the reservation under tillage before long.
About forty men and boys were engaged in the play,
and about seven squads of women and babies were ob
served on the outskirts of the field. Most of the men
were dressed up about as fantastic as Indians might be
expected to dress themselves. One man's trousers seemed
to be made on one side of red flannel and the other side
yellow flannel, and a big square patch behind. Some had
one stocking of one color and the other stocking of
another color, and some no stockings at all, and each
with a paddle of network with which he could catch
and sling a ball a great distance, and there was much
striving to get the ball or knock the paddle from one
another, accompanied by a trip and perhaps a complete
somersault. This with feathers and caps, old hats, etc.,
made the scene picturesque. But it was not my errand,
exactly, to simply see the show. So I first had a talk with

Age 54 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 213
one of the councillors, and told him instead of employ
ing the First-day of the week in that way, I wanted that
day used for better account. Next I asked him who was
head man in the place. Being referred to Simon Black-
chief, I went to him and asked for a hearing from all the
players. So the sound went forth in Indian fashion, and
they gathered round me, when I relieved my mind, taking
the opportunity to state how that some of these men had
been induced to go with parties as play actors and had
gotten into trouble. I did not know it then, but was
afterward told that Simon Blackchief, the boss, had sev
eral times gone off as an actor. Having been given a
respectful hearing, we withdrew and returned in time
for tea.
I do not know that it is any worse for Indians to in
dulge in their games on First-day afternoons than for
the college students to indulge in their theatrical per
formances; both are to be deplored.
Ninth month i. After breakfast Aaron P. Dewees
and I went in a buggy to Onoville to see about getting
an appointed meeting. It was eight miles, and when we
came to a place having the reputation of being a hard
place, a good deal of drinking, etc., we drove round and
spied a dilapidated looking man with a bandage over his
eye and his nose and face badly swollen, but being drawn
to him, I addressed him and found the poor creature in
a good deal of trouble, having a daughter lying at the
point of death. He was much affected on account of it.

214 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1884
He said, "This is a hard place, and I have seen many hard
things in my time and not very old either, but we must
think of our end some time." I asked him if he thought
the people of the place would meet with a stranger. He
said, "We are most all Catholics, but they would meet you
in the school house."
We made arrangements for an appointed meeting on
Sixth-day evening. I could not find a boat to take me
across the river, so Aaron had to drive me across with
his colt. It had never gone through the river before and
the question was, how would it behave? Aaron was a
little anxious, but I told him if he kept that colt he
would expect it to go through some time and it might as
well begin now. On the other side of the river I joined
George J. Scattergood, and with Cynthia Gordon as inter
preter, when necessary, we proceeded to visit some of
the natives in their homes, returning to Tunesassa in the
evening. Ninth month 2. Attended the funeral of Jefferson
Halftown, about thirty-five years of age, and who had
died of consumption. He had embraced the Christian
religion and was sincere in his profession. The com
pany gathered in slowly, Indian fashion, until it became
a pretty large funeral — the women sitting on one side
and the men on the other, about filling the seats, while
there were squads of men lying outside on the grass.
One old man did some smoking, and some who sat near
me I judge had done some before they came there.

Age 54 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 215
After their service I had an opportunity to express my
self and pleaded with them to strive to do better in im
proving the condition of their people. The council house
is new and the women made a genteel appearance.
In the afternoon the Indians assembled again at the
council house and the agent arrived about 3 o'clock to
enter upon the annuity business. The storekeeper also
came with his clerk with accounts against the Indians for
goods purchased on trust during the year. After some
preliminaries, getting tables, seats and fixing the money,
which was spread out, the people gathered round and
operations began. It was announced there had been one
hundred and fifteen deaths and one hundred and one
births during the year. The names of the families and
individuals and their ages were called and received their
respective annuities. The amount paid was about $4.05
to adults and half that to the children. After witnessing
the operations within doors, I went out to ease my limbs
a little, for the benches in the council house are not after
the most approved fashion. An Indian was killed on the
railroad yesterday. We may attend the funeral.
Ninth month 3. We are again at the council house.
There are present about thirty women, a few babies and
forty men inside and as many more on the outside. One
great big man has been smoking and about smoked
G. J. S. out of doors, and if it continues I will have to
go before long. The agent and his assistants are busy
and the storekeeper is taking in his money. So it goes.

216 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1884
I had to go out into the fresh air. I told George J.
Scattergood that the shade under a tree looked inviting,
and I believed I would take a nap, for there was a fune
ral to attend directly. He suggested I might do the most
service by napping it near the beer wagon that was on
the grounds, about which George was concerned both
yesterday and to-day. I thought the best way would be
for us to ask the agent to clear out the peddlers of all
kinds. But one thing was evident — while G. J. S. stood
around and I lay under the shade of a tree against a
stump where the beer wagon was, there was not much
drinking. G. J. S., however, was under concern and
tried to get an interpreter, but no one wanted to under
take it. The recess being announced for the agent and
his assistants, out came Chester Lay, a good square-
hearted Indian, and he was persuaded to interpret, and
George delivered what I suppose some would call a
gospel temperance sermon. He told them there was no
use in spending their money for liquor when they
could get good spring water nearby for nothing. The
Indians gathered around us and the peddlers showed no
resentment. "When the sermon was ended," like the
fishes we read of in St. Anthony's sermon, "they all
turned and descended," most likely all preferring their
own way. We now thought it time to go over to the
funeral of Charley Bigkettle, who was killed on the
railroad. Ninth month 4. Fifth-day. Attended meeting at the

Age 54 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 217
school. We expect to hold appointed meetings in Go-
wanda and Dunkirk on First-day afternoon and Second-
day evening; and we shall hardly feel easy not to stop
on the Cattaraugus Reservation and meet some of them
in council before returning home.
Ninth month 16. At a stated meeting of the Indian
Committee, the report of the committee appointed to
visit the Indians at Cornp'ianter's and other such service
as might seem in place was read and was satisfactory.
Tenth month 30. In the business portion of our
Monthly Meeting I opened my concern by stating that
some years ago I had mentioned a prospect for religious
service among the colored people of this city, for which
at that time the meeting hardly felt prepared to liberate
me, but I was now encouraged to revive it. I felt that
time was passing, and that I had the physical ability,
and whilst it would be a relief to get from under the
concern, yet I would rather it would remain as it was
than to engage in it without the the meeting was satisfied ;
but I felt it right to hold myself open to visit that people
in and around this city in their meeting houses, institu
tions and in their homes to a limited extent, which I sub
mitted to the meeting, After a time of silence there was
a pretty general expression of encouragement to proceed
in the matter and a minute was accordingly made. Jona
than E. Rhoads expressed a willingness to join in the
proposed visit amongst the colored people and was

218 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1884
granted a minute, liberating him for the service, by his
Monthly Meeting.
We commenced our service among the colored people
by holding a meeting at the Home for the Aged and
Infirm on Forty-fourth street, above Lancaster avenue,
which was held to satisfaction on Eleventh month 6,
1884. Eleventh month 18. The long rough rides to the out
lying graveyards need to be looked into. If better means
could be provided, it would be a great relief, for it is
severe in cold weather. If a meeting house, economically
constructed, could be built on the part of the burying
ground lately purchased by our Monthly Meeting and
suitable conveyances thereto from the railway stations
so that the funerals might meet in the meeting house it
would be a great advantage.
Eleventh month 27. J. Bevan Braithwaite dined with
us and was interesting in conversation. He asked for a
religious opportunity after the close of the meal, and we
retired into the sitting-room. He certainly was in a
kindly spirit and, in addressing us, brought out some
beautiful passages from Isaiah. "Behold I will lay thy
foundations with sapphire, thy windows with agates,
thy gates with carbuncles, and all thy corners with pleas
ant stones." "Thy children shall be all taught of Me
and great shall be the peace of thy children."
Third month 22, 1885. Attended the last of the public
meetings in which Jonathan E. Rhoads and I have been

Age 55 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 219
engaged for the past four or five months, in the pursu
ance of which prospect we have abundant cause to com
memorate the goodness of the Lord in making way for
us, as also in supporting us in our line of labor.
Third month 26. Gave up my minute to the Monthly
Meeting to-day, stating that having pursued the prospect
for which I had been liberated in the Tenth month last,
to the peace and comfort of my own mind, and having
been joined by Jonathan E. Rhoads, we had visited the
colored people in all their places of worship, so far as I
knew of their whereabouts, as far north as Germantown
and Frankford, and had many interesting religious oppor
tunities, not only in their meetings but also in some of
their houses.
Fourth month 27. This day I am fifty-five years of
age and my wife forty-nine. Time is passing on, and
as it has passed we have seen many vicissitudes and par
taken of many mercies. Whilst I have not been a strong
man in any way, yet I trust I have had a little service in
my day, and I hope for our children that they may be
enabled to serve the Lord in their day and generation.
Fifth month 3. Went with Hannah Stratton and her
companion to the Eastern Penitentiary, and had a relig
ious opportunity in each of the corridors, eight in number.
It was the usual custom for about eight preachers and
their assistants to assemble at 9 A. M., First-day morn
ings, in the centre of the building and then be apportioned
to the different corridors for about an hour, to engage

220 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1885
in their religious exercises, and then assemble in the
centre to sing together before they dispersed.
- Extract from a letter by J. S. E., dated Fifth month 26,
1885: It is not possible for us to be brought through great
tribulations if we are not first brought into them.
No temptation, however, has fallen unto us but what
is common to man, but with every temptation there is
a door of escape ; and in your particular I would like it
to be with as little damage to your vessels and with as
little wounding of the body as will serve the purpose.
Secret griefs are sometimes harder to bear than being
engaged in the conflict, but they may be our cup to par
take of. Those of us who speak before the people occupy
a position that makes it seem emphatically important to
know of the holy composure and of a godly measure of
the anointing that we may see clearly how to move, as
well as how to lie on our oars. In times of commotion
it is a great deal to know self to be silenced, and to
arrive at the place of true prayer; and without that,
where are we? John Woolman said, "When the Church
arrives at the place of true prayer, her habitation is
safe."— J. S. E.
Eighth month 3. About 3.18 P. M. a cyclone, accom
panied by a torrent of rain, passed near us. A cloud
appeared about the size of a square of ground, much
below the other clouds, which were moving about as
usual, but the cyclone was of very heavy color, almost

Age 55 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 221
black, shooting out arms, and then apparently gathering
these in with gyrations and moving rapidly to the north
west, until it was apparently within a few hundred yards
of our factory, and then moved eastward to the buildings
of the Pennsylvania Salt Works, demolishing them, then
striking across the Delaware river from Mifflin street,
striking the steamboat Major Reybold, carrying away
the captain and pilot, the latter being drowned, and strik
ing the roundhouse of the Pennsylvania railroad at Cam
den, passing up Third and Fourth streets, Camden, till
it reached the river at Cooper's Point and across to Port
Richmond, unroofing, it was thought, four hundred
houses. Ninth month 22. Left Philadelphia by 3.45 train for
Ohio, to see our son, Alfred, married. We had favorable
weather for the trip. The changing foliage of the forest
trees impressed me more than ever before. It being the
first day I had ever worn glasses, the colors seemed to
be brought out brighter. Arrived at Barnesville about
9 P. M.
Ninth month 23. At Monthly Meeting at Stillwater
I was impressed with the size of the meeting, larger than
I expected. In the second meeting son Alfred passed
meeting with Abby Walton. I felt it, that his mother
could not be with us. Sister Sarah J. Bedell walked with
me into men's meeting. I asked the Monthly Meeting,
on behalf of my son Alfred, for an appointed meeting

222 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1885
next day to accommodate those who wished to attend the
marriage, which was granted.
Ninth month 24. My son Alfred was this day married
to Abby, daughter of Samuel and Sarah Walton, at
Friends' Meeting in Barnesville, Belmont county, Ohio.
The day was very fine, and perhaps one hundred were
present who could not be seated. I felt thankful the
meeting was held in the dignity it seemed to be. I was
enabled to discharge my mind of an exercise I had for
the people; and, after the marriage ceremony was per
formed, to intercede for the blessing from Him who
alone knoweth the end from the beginning. Esther
Fowler had a lively testimony, as also had Ruth S.
Abbott. We had a nice company at the marriage recep
tion, and among them were Dr. Judkins and wife. Dr.
Judkins was Alfred's physician whilst he was ill in Ohio
the year before. The entertainment was conducted satis
factorily and the company seemed to enjoy themselves.
While in Ohio I called at uncle Mahlon Patterson's,
near Mt. Pleasant, which is a beautiful location. The
first time I visited there was in 1856, when cousin Nathan
P. Hall took my Malinda and me there a few days after
our marriage to see Malinda's grandmother, Faith Patter
son, an Israelite indeed! She was about ninety-three
years of age. We had at the time of our visit a sweet
and precious opportunity, in which dear grandmother
said to me, "I have heard of thee coming to see my grand-

Age 55 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 223
daughter, and now I see thee, I am satisfied." She passed
on to her everlasting reward not very long after.
Tenth month 27. Attended the first meeting of the
trustees of the Charles L. Willits Fund, left to dis
tribute reading matter, explanatory of the principles of
Friends, among the people of color in the Southern
States and in Liberia.
Twelfth month 24. I opened a concern in the Monthly
Meeting to visit in Gospel love, as way should open, the
families of Upper Springfield Monthly Meeting, and to
appoint a few public meetings within its limits, which,
being freely united with, a minute was granted me.
First month 1, 1886. My son William was this day
admitted into the firm of Joseph S. & Thomas Elkinton.
He has been a faithful and affectionate son and did a fair
share in the part he has taken, both in the factory and
office. First month 4. Called on William U. Ditzler, who told
me of the death of a Presbyterian minister who occa
sionally came to Arch Street Meeting for the sake of the
quiet he found there, in which he said he was often
favored with openings that were useful to him. Speaking
of our Society, he said to William U. Ditzler, "You are
the leaven." He wished others would give more place to
Divine Revelation. This minister also related to W. U. D.
that on a certain occasion he had agreed to take the place
of another preacher in his absence at Doylestown. He
went to the meeting with a prepared sermon in his pocket,

224 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1886
but, after going into the pulpit, he seemed to be overtaken
with blindness and inability to fasten his mind upon any
thing he had written. Whilst, however, his congregation
was engaged in an exercise, he was sitting with his hands
before his face, crying unto the Lord for mercy. As
lightning, a passage of Scripture presented and when the
congregation was through singing, he stood up and en
larged upon the passage. He said in all his ministry he
had never experienced such feelings. After the meeting
was over a stranger came to him saying, "God sent you
here with that message." Two of his congregation told
him his sermon was very appropriate.
Second month 26. In our Monthly Meeting I gave up
my minute granting me liberty to visit the families of
Upper Springfield Monthly Meeting in New Jersey and
appoint a few public meetings within its limits. I stated
that I had prosecuted the service for which I had been
liberated, as way opened, to the peace and comfort of
my mind, and felt that I had cause for gratitude for the
support and assistance afforded me.
Received a telegram from Tunesassa informing me of
the fire there, in which the house and school building
were burned, but the family and children all escaped but
with little clothing. After consulting a few friends, I
started out with what clothing could be collected in so
short a time and arrived at Salamanca about noon the
next day.
Second month 27. Arrived at Salamanca about noon

Age 56 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 225
and found Aaron P. Dewees in waiting, thermometer
about zero and exceedingly windy, and I was glad that
Aaron went from Tunesassa in the cars to save exposure
to himself and me too. We came down in the afternoon
train. It was pretty severe going across Salamanca, especially
on the bridge, the wind being high, and it nearly froze
my ear. I thought the distance so short that I had
neglected to tie it up.
We were met at Quaker Bridge Station by Aaron
Dewees, Jr., but as we proceeded to Tunesassa, I missed
the sight of the buildings that I had often taken such
pleasure in viewing, but the attention being now turned to
the tenant house with feelings of more interest than ever
before, as it now sheltered the family who, having escaped
the fire, gave me a greeting that manifested pleasure in
seeing me ; but several showed by their countenance that
they had experienced much, and after I heard them relate
what they passed through on the night of the 24th, we
might well be glad of their escaping the flames, and al
though but little property was saved from the dwelling
and school house, yet under all the circumstances it is a
wonder that the barns and outbuildings were saved. It
was from the melted snow in puddles that their water
was obtained to throw on the fire so as to stop it from
consuming the outbuildings.
A new oven had been lately introduced, the bottom of
which was on some brickwork, that either had timber

226 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1886
under it or at side of it, that became heated so as to fire.
It had been observed the day before that the oven was
very hot, and the thoughts of some of the family had
been on fire, or some heavy dispensation.
The Indians who came to the fire not only assisted in
saving the outbuildings, but showed marked kindness in
endeavoring to provide for the children, bringing shawls,
shoes, etc., to wrap them up in, and take them to their
homes, and several invitations were given, both by the
Indians and whites around, to the teachers and care
takers, but they preferred keeping together in the tenant
house; they had seen so much they felt closely bound
together. All the family seemed to be overdone. The shock was
very great, but I trust all will come up in a few days.
Eleven of us are quartered in the tenant house, which
has three small chambers and a kitchen.
It does not take much in speaking of the scenes of the
night to bring tears to the eyes, and it has had the effect
to bind the family together. Louisa Smith says she has
never witnessed such an interest as the Indians now mani
fest. They came in to see and talk over the matter, and
seem to feel that the destruction of the buildings is a
great loss to them, and hope that the Quakers will build
up again. Cynthia Gordon came up from Cornplanter's
because she could not rest. All said the Indians at Corn-
planter's were very much affected at the knowledge of
the fire.

Age 56 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 227
The weather is so cold that but little can be done. out
of doors. I found I could stand but a limited time around
the ruins.
The family expressed themselves several times that
they were glad I came, and Aaron wishes me to stay a
few days to consult with him and to see the Indians, as
there is considerable unsettlement and anxiety among the
Indians in reference to the tenure of their lands, and the
Indian Committee want more information as to what
part they expect to take.
Joseph Branson came in to see how Friends fared and
brought some clothing.
Aaron P. Dewees' condition is a matter of some solici
tude, as his lungs seem as if they might have been scalded,
and then the strain on his mind has been great. He said
some one asked him if he felt better or worse. "Oh," he
said, "one thing and another kept coming up, to have
nothing and no place to put that."
He dwells on how he was being lost in the fire, and
says there was a part of the time he cannot account for;
however, there is a spirit of thankfulness with him. He
told me as we lay in bed together that he had more than
he asked for. In the time of the fire he vocally expressed,
"Oh, Lord help us to save the children."
I have received lessons of instruction, and I trust I am
not out of place. There are so many missing things, and
the family wants to consult on many things, and in their
state it is not to be wondered at.

228 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1886
First-day. Fourteen of us met in the kitchen of this
little house in a meeting capacity, the kitchen being the
largest room in the house. It was a season of deep feel
ing, and I saw about as much in the line of shedding
tears as at other times lately.
I was a good deal in sympathy with the two girls who
went from here on Fifth-day to Cornplanter's. Cynthia
Gordon told me that they could not tell what was the
matter with them for a long time, their hearts were so
full. Robert Blacksnake, son of the late Owen Blacksnake,
has been in since meeting, with whom I had some con
versation in reference to Indian affairs, and agreed with
him to meet some of their head men at Cold Spring on
my way to Gowanda.
Fourth month 6. I am a lover of the Scriptures, and
want others to be also. When passages therefrom are
sealed upon our spirits in an instructive and comforting
manner, let us strive to be possessed with the same spirit
that the writers possessed who were so favored with the
openings of Light that they saw those things which they
recorded. Fourth month 29. Monthly Meeting at Arch Street.
In our business meeting I stated to Friends that Elwood
Dean being with us and having a prospect of attending
some of our meetings, as he may feel the Divine support
therein, also appointing some meetings outside of the
Society, I felt it would most comport with my peace, with

Age 56 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 229
the consent of the meeting, to join him in the work he
had in hand, whilst it was pursued in the limits of our
Yearly Meeting. There was a general expression of unity
and concurrence therewith, and a minute was granted me.
Eighth month 15. At our afternoon meeting to-day
there were some strangers, and I felt drawn to allude to
that power which a man might possess in his place of
worship, in his dwelling, in his workshop or by the way
side, whereby he might be instrumental in leavening the
spirits of others and not necessarily depend upon what
expression he might drop. I wanted all to seek for a
measure to adorn our calling. The employer should deal
justly and have the best interest of those under him at
heart. The physician, nurse, lawyer, engineer or sea
captain who had the cause or even the lives of others in
his hands, had need to know the place of intercession and
to be kept in the Lord's holy fear, which was not such a
fear as prevented action in its time and season, but rather
enabled to act efficiently. The lawyer, the magistrate,
the judge should act according to the pleasure of the
Lord ; and all the more in the offices of the Church should
we seek to be imbued with that which is not of ourselves,
but of Him who showeth mercy and does discipline and
qualify his own office for the work.
Tenth month 14. Went to Haddonfield to attend the
marriage of my son William with Eleanor, daughter of
Charles Rhoads. My Malinda went over yesterday and
was kindly entertained at Sarah and Rebecca Nicholson's.

230 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1886
Probably five hundred were at meeting. We were favored
with a sense of the Divine presence. I was drawn to
intercede that as that occasion was chosen by our children
to present themselves before the Lord and take each other
for companions for life, and we would trust not to take
only, but to give; and in the spirit the Apostle enjoined,
when he said, "Husbands, love your wives as your own
bodies, even as Christ loved the Church and gave himself
for it," that the Lord might be pleased to honor us with
a sense of his living presence, and own us in our offer
ings, whether openly expressed or in silent exercise for
the arising of life. We could speak for our children as
for those who had served and were serving us ; we might
share of what we possessed, and endeavor to guard from
hurtful influences, yet the power to preserve was from
the Lord. We felt our impotence, and that we ourselves
were but as the grass of the field, which flourisheth for a
time and then vanisheth away, but thy word abideth
forever, therefore we commend our children to thee and
to the word of thy grace which is able to build them up
and to give them an inheritance among those that are
sanctified that they may be thine, fearing thee and keeping
thy commandments, and think upon thy name.
Elizabeth R. Evans spoke on the passage, "It is the
blessing of the Lord which maketh truly rich, and to
which no sorrow is added." Jonathan E. Rhoads deliv
ered a very satisfactory communication on the importance
of the marriage covenant, it being the most important step

Age 56 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 231
in a man's life, not implying, however, that the great
thing needful, giving place to the convictions of the Holy
Spirit, was second to any other. Richard Esterbrook
commenced his acceptable communication with: "It is
not display or eloquence that is wanted in these assem
blies, but the power of the Lord." We had a supplication
from Esther Roberts that was very appropriate. Our
son Joseph spoke of those being favored with the reve
lation of Jesus Christ, who know something of the bap
tizing power of the Holy Spirit.
There were over one hundred guests at the house of
entertainment, and we had a very agreeable time.
Elventh month 8. Our children had a large company,
which was considered the home-coming of our son Wil
liam and his wife. Whatever may be the weakness of
my children, it is not that they do not keep good company.
It was with satisfaction that I could look over such a
company as having grown up amongst us, and my heart
was clothed with the feeling that craved the Divine bless
ing upon them.
Eleventh month ii. My Malinda was out at meeting
to-day, when she heard the representatives of three gen
erations in the ministry. Mother Patterson bore testi
mony to the importance of waiting on the Lord. I fol
lowed, reviving the testimony of the Apostle that the
same Jesus whom the Jews slew and hanged upon the
tree did God exalt by his right hand to be a Prince and
a Saviour, to give repentance to Israel and remission of

232 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1886
sins, and they were his witnesses, as also the Holy Ghost,
which was given to them that believe. Son Joseph fol
lowed with a testimony that gave evidence to my mind
that his heart was filled with a measure of Divine love.
Eleventh month 13. Rheumatism took a pretty sharp
grip of my chest yesterday, enough to remind me that I
had a fleshy part that was neither iron nor steel, and that
I probably could not endure hardness as in days past;
but if out on proper business, I judge there will be no
occasion to complain of the bill of fare or a lack of ability
to do what may be appointed.
Eleventh month 27. I informed the Monthly Meeting
on the 26th that I was under appointment to present an
address prepared by the Indian Committee to the Indians
in council, as well as to visit the Indians at Tunesassa;
but having been impressed for some years past that there
was a breaking forth of Light in southwestern New York,
I would open up a concern to hold some public meetings
in that section, as also in Columbiana county, Ohio, and
western Pennsylvania, which concern was united with
and a minute granted me.*
Twelfth month 30. At our meeting I returned the
minute granted me last month, stating that I had pursued
the concern as far as I felt required of me, and returned
home with feelings of peace and quietness. I was con
firmed in the belief that was a time of visitation in south-

*Seth Warrington, of Moorestown, New Jersey, accompanied
me in this service.

Age 56 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 233
western New York state, and I appreciated the disposi
tion to assist me as well as the hospitality bestowed.
The following is an incident once related to me by
Alfred Cope : Alfred Cope had a man in his employ who
seemed to keep very poor, and Alfred asked him how it
was. His reply was that the priest had told him that his
mother was in purgatory and to get her out he must pay
him well, so this was why he was so poor. Alfred Cope
induced him to get a statement or receipt from the priest
of the amount of money that he had received, as his em
ployer was uneasy, knowing that he gave him good wages.
The statement was obtained showing what the man had
paid for the pious purpose of getting his mother out of
purgatory. Alfred Cope asked the man if he knew that
his mother was dead. The man said : "Oh, it must be so,
for the priest said so !" Alfred Cope told him to write to
Ireland, that if his mother were living, for her to come
over to America and he would bear all her expenses.
This the man did, and the mother came, and Alfred Cope
gave her a position. But he took her with her son to
the priest's house; and, leaving the mother outside, he
went in with the man and spoke to the priest about the
imposition of getting the money from the man, for his
mother was living. The priest asserted she was dead.
This A. C. denied, as he had taken steps to prove her
identity, and told the man to go out and bring her in, and
then told the priest if he did not refund all the money
he would expose him and make him pay well for it. The

234 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1886
priest gave up the money. After a time the man seemed
to be getting poor again, and A. C. asked him what was
the matter now. He said the priest told him if he did
not let him have that money again he would send him
direct to hell when he died ; that there would be no pur
gatory for him.

CHAPTER IX.
Visit to Mennonite Community, etc.
First month 18, 1887. Our son Joseph knocked at our
room this morning, about six o'clock, and reported the
birth of a little son, who has been named Joseph Pass-
more Elkinton.
Second month 5. The minute being brought up from
our last meeting concerning my son Joseph, there was
considerable expression confirming the judgment of the
Monthly Meeting that a gift in the ministry had been
conferred upon him.
Joseph Walton spoke of the satisfaction it was to him
to witness this movement, and he also said he thought it
had been a loss to our Yearly Meeting not to acknowledge
gifts timely, with which mother Patterson expressed her
unity. A minute was made confirming the judgment of
the Monthly Meeting and a copy was directed to be sent
down to the Monthly Meeting and Preparative Meeting
of Ministers and Elders, and my son now stands acknowl
edged as a Minister in the Society of Friends. May the
Lord preserve him on the true foundation and imbue him
with the hidden wisdom on which the ministry of the
Apostle Paul was built that he may be a blessing to his
generation. Second month 20. My friend and neighbor, H. O. Gib
bons, invited me in to see a brother of General Howard,
235

236 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1887
who was at his house and who was a representative of
the Peace Society. He told me that the horrors that he
witnessed at the battle of Gettysburg had turned him into
a peace man, and that he wished to encourage arbitration
for nations.
Second month 24, 1887. In the Monthly Meeting I
informed Friends that with the liberty of this meeting
and the hearts amongst whom my lot might be cast, to
receive it, I felt it my place to hold myself open to appoint
some public meetings within the limits of Bucks and Cain
Quarterly Meetings, more particularly among the people
called Mennonites, towards whom my thoughts had been
turned through a course of years, accompanied with the
feeling that it might be right for me to visit them.
Friends granted me a minute that allowed the prosecu
tion of the concern.
Third month 7. Left Doylestown this morning for
Deep Run, to attend an appointed meeting with the
Mennonites. Joseph Walton accompanied me, and we
found a large assembly gathered and well settled. It was
a touching sight to me, and I felt grateful at the response
that was given to our proposal to meet them.
The house was large, and it was arranged for the
women to occupy the benches, which faced each other
like in our Arch Street Meeting House, except there were
more of them. There was an ante-room at one end of
the house provided for the women, where it was their
practice to lay aside their bonnets and come into the

Age 57 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 237
meeting with their caps on. There were bandboxes on
shelves in the ante-room for their accommodation. They
presented a neat, plain, simple appearance which im
pressed me, and in all my travels I have not met with
any that seemed more like Friends. They have a testi-
many against war, oaths, hireling ministry, and will not
go to law with each other; indeed, in this particular they
are an example for our own members. They believe in
the sacraments, but do not encourage the preparation of
sermons. I went amongst them with no other watchword
than "Follow me." The language of the Saviour was
forcibly brought to my view, "Other sheep I have which
are not of this fold; them also I must bring, that there
may be one fold and one shepherd." There were several
ministers who sat in line with us on the bench facing the
assembly, and we had not only tender but weighty feel
ings. I thought it was an unusually favored meeting ; to
the Lord be praise !
We were kindly greeted by the people after meeting
and invited to dine at John Gross', one of their ministers
— a solid, worthy man — where he had an exceedingly in
teresting visit. We were informed of their practice and
discipline, also manner of choosing their ministers and
bishop by lot. When a congregation desires a minister
they apply to the conference. The conference allowing
the appointment, it goes back to the congregation, when
in a business meeting, liberty is given for any one to be
named that is on the mind of a member, and those named

238 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1887
are considered candidates. There are taken as many
books as there are candidates, and in each book is placed
a slip of paper, all blanks excepting one, on which is
written, "The lot is cast into the lap, but the deciding
thereof is with the Lord." The books are then mixed
together; secret prayer on the part of the congregation
is then called for that the Lord would guide the hand.
The candidates then go, each taking a book, and the one
taking the book containing the written slip of paper is
considered appointed, and the bishop is expected to ordain
him. The bishops are chosen by lot from amongst the
ministers. I had felt in the early morning something of
the overshadowing sense of Heavenly Goodness, which
was precious to me. They took considerable interest in
planning meetings for us, and said they would consult
with other neighborhoods.
Third month n. We went in the afternoon to Isaac
Overholzer's. He has been their bishop for a long time,
but now unable to go out of his house. The theme of
his conversation was concerning his Lord Jesus Christ,
who seemed to be his "All in All." At the tea table, after
the silence at the close of the meal, he spoke impressively,
and hoped the Almighty God would bless and prosper
the work we had undertaken, with more that showed his
unity and also gave evidence of his having a part in the
work and a fellowship with those whom he believed to
be in the Truth. He expressed satisfaction with our

Age 57 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 239
visit. His personal appearance reminded me much of
Christopher Healy.
Third month 17. We had a comfortable, satisfactory
meeting at Arch Street, where I saw for the first time
my son Joseph in the gallery, he having been invited to
take his seat there during my absence.
Fourth month 26. From a letter to William P. Town-
send from J. S. E. :
I see the leaves putting forth and the grass in the square
is freshening up as if we were really to have spring.
The sight of the leaves in spring is always a welcome
one to me. It is lawful for us to enjoy the beauties
of creation as we are given capacity so to do, and whether
we are in sound bodily health, or have been touched in
some way or other, the contemplation of the works and
of the omnipotence of the great Creator is not to be
denied us, and all the changes but quicken in the sense
that this is the time granted to work the pleasure of Him
for whose pleasure all things are and were created.
Sixth month 1. From a letter to Margaret Lightfoot :
We have had our providences and been among a very
interesting people. The weather has been for the most
part very favorable, and the gatherings have been large
and apparently held to the satisfaction of the visited. We
certainly have met with great openness and expression
frequently made in the line of desiring that our labors
should be blessed, for all which gratitude to our Heavenly
Father should be felt.— J. S. E.

240 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1888
Seventh month 30. Joseph Walton and 1 visited most
of the meetings of the Mennonites in Lancaster county,
and were well received, and witnessed seasons of the
extendings of Heavenly goodness, for which gratitude
should be felt to the Author of all good.
Oh! that we might, through the few remaining days
that may be allotted us on earth, know the Lord to be
with us in the way we go, giving us bread to eat and
raiment to put on in a spiritual as well as temporal sense ;
that when our day's work shall be done we may lay down
our heads in peace, and be prepared to join with those
who are singing the song of the redeemed.
Ninth month 8. At Arch Street Meeting there was a
precious feeling I thought remarkable during the silence
of the meeting, which was broken by my son Joseph in
a short testimony, followed by an appearance in suppli
cation by his father.
Second month 6, 1888. At our Quarterly Meeting,
when the Queries were being discussed, my son Joseph,
in his testimony, brought out a good deal of history to
the effect that there had been those in the different gen
erations, from the days of the disciples to the present
time, who adhered to these principles, and in our day
Friends were by no means alone, but others would almost
put us to shame as regards consistency.
I wanted Friends who live near meeting houses to do
what they could to open their doors to those who live
on the outskirts, that they might be accommodated when

Age 58 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 241
they come to our meetings, and that we should keep alive
a concern to visit our members in their homes.
Extract from a letter to Amos Herr from J. S. E. :
Philadelphia, Third month 8, 1888.
Dear Friend: I am far from thinking that thou and
the Society to which thou belongs lay your salvation
merely on the observance of the ordinances, as they are
called; and in the whole paragraph which thou wrote,
quoting the words of the Apostle Peter and enlarging
thereon, I do not see a word that I would wish to change.
I believe we are in one spirit. I could only add that in
the living experience that any one, coming to have the
answer of a good conscience toward God by the resur
rection of Jesus, arrives at, he does know of being washed
in the water of regeneration, and those who sit at the
table of the Lord do feed upon the bread of life, even
upon Him who said, "I am the bread of life," and they
drink the wine of the kingdom. This is eating the bread
and drinking the blood of the Son of Man whereby we
may come to have life in Him. I have no doubt in my
mind but they who love the appearing of the Lord Jesus
have a crown in store, and what they do in sincerity in
their endeavors to serve him by keeping his command
ments He will regard; but as it was designed that in
Christ should be fulfilled those things which were de
signed to prepare for the coming of Christ, we must
suppose compassion will be extended to us as we hold to
or leave that which aforetime was ordained.

242 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1888
Luther was a favored man, and was undoubtedly bap
tized and prepared for a great work; and yet as he took
up arms against some who also knew of the Truth, we
must think he did not come to the fulness of Light
which was reserved for some who came later. I prize
the remembrance of seasons when traveling in Lancaster
county last year, when the overshadowing of heavenly
goodness overspread us and we could feel that we were
children of one common Father, who loved us and sent
his son Jesus Christ to bless us, not only by turning us
from our iniquities, but also to comfort our hearts and
refresh us so that we could feel that even in this state
of being the language was to be held forth, "Where I am
there shall my servant be." Now whatsoever we do, let
is be done as unto the Lord, that whether we eat, or
whether we drink, it shall be done as unto the Lord, and
the Lord direct our hearts unto the love of God and the
patient waiting for Christ. . . .
Extracted from a letter from J. S. E., dated Third
month 13, 1888:
. . . In the occupancy of our respective trusts or
responsibilities we need the Divine support, and at times
it seems appalling, what there is to be met, but we have
been and will continue to be made partakers of the Lord's
mercies if we keep the faith.
Fourth month 23. In our Yearly Meeting, on Third-
day, whilst the Queries were under consideration, Charles
Rhoads alluded to the temptations to extend business and

Age 58 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 243
to depart from strict integrity, which I supplemented
with the sentiment that employers should have a righteous
concern for the spiritual welfare of those in their employ,
giving them what privileges they can, and that they should
have a place in their prayers.
Fifth month 24. At a meeting at Arch Street son
Joseph took up a passage in regard to the strangers who
should be joined to us, who kept the covenant of the
Lord, that they should be joined to the inheritance which
the Lord had in store for his people. These were they
who did not profane the Sabbath of the Lord. Joseph
seemed to have an understanding, and was permitted to
open out with a good degree of clearness as to the
nature of the true Sabbath; and that as in the outward,
so in the spiritual, there was need of keeping the Sabbath
and resting from works. He also took up the parable of
the Apostle regarding the grafting of the wild olive
branch and except that faithfulness was maintained, it
would be cut off. He handled this with some ability.
I cannot but believe my son has a part in the work and
has his openings.
Sixth month 8. I received information that William
B. Morgan, now stationed at Earlham college, would
be willing to have a set of the volumes of "The Friend"
for Earlham college. They are erecting a new building.
It was stated that the set I had sent to Oskaloosa, to be
placed in the college there, had been appreciated. I
sent a set to Earlham and received the following reply:

244 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1888
Earlham, Indiana, Sixth month 6, 1888.
Joseph S. Elkinton,
Dear Friend: I learn that the books have now
reached our freight office at Richmond. We are now
expecting to transfer the College Library during the
vacation, which begins shortly, to the rooms prepared
in the new building. The boxes are not to be opened
until the shelves are ready for them. I am directed by
the authorities to convey to thee their thanks for the
same. I had occasion, in the preparation of a lecture
on Indian matters a few weeks ago, to look up some
references to Cherokee history, and I found from the
few volumes of "The Friend," to which I had access,
more valuable accounts than from any other source.
The editors have always been so careful to secure the
facts and to discard mere conjecture that I apprehend
"The Friend" for the last sixty years will prove a most
valuable book of reference for that period.
Thy sincere friend,
William B. Morgan.
Sixth month 13. Went to Twelfth Street, and was
engaged to address those young in years, more particu
larly the school children; to encourage them to mind
their day of their visitation, and as they were thus con
cerned to do, no doubt the promise of the Lord would be
extended to them as to Jacob, when he was favored with
a vision; and the Lord spake unto him saying, "Behold
I am with thee, and will preserve thee;" and not only

Age 58 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 245
their own welfare, but their influence in the community
would be greatly affected by their being favored with a
measure of Divine Grace, which enables men to act well
in this life.
Extract from a letter by J. S. E., dated Sixth month,
1888: Children who thus honor their parents will not fail in
receiving a blessing from Him who promised that "their
days should be long in the land which He would give
them." I think it is called the first commandment with
promise. I have been richly paid for what I did in
helping my father to carry out his religious concerns.
Before I was of age there were several occasions when
my father was away for a considerable time that the
weight of business cares fell on me. Now I reap the
reward in having children who can and do release me
when I am away, as I have been perhaps one-third of
my time in the past twenty years. I have reasonable
hope that when my time comes to lay down the armor
that it will be taken up by those who are to come after
me ; one of my children having given acceptance, and has
been acknowledged by his friends as a minister. To
have him on one side of me and his grandmother Pat
terson on the other in our meetings for worship is a
comfort, the latter having been a minister about fifty
years. It is a precious thing when the hearts of parents
and children are bound together in the bundle of life,

246 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1888
supporting the hands of each other and craving the
Divine blessing.
Extracted from a letter dated Seventh month 28, 1888 :
Thou referred to my giving up the Third Street house.
I thought it best to lighten my cares, but I miss that
house. There were seasons of favor witnessed there
that I expect will not be forgotten by me whilst memory
lasts, but there does seem a limit as to what we can carry.
A letter to Samuel J. Randall (at one time Speaker
of the House of Representatives of the United States
Congress) from J. S. E., dated Eighth month 29, 1888:
Samuel J. Randall,
Respected Friend : The little time I spent in thy sick
room served but to increase the affectionate regard I had
for thee, not merely, I trust, because of the kindness
thou hadst shown when in an influential position, but
now that thou art sick and aside from the world and
its bustle, in a condition, unless too much reduced in
strength, to give place to reflection, I desire for thee the
overshadowing influences of the Holy Spirit; that when
those things rise before thee that have the strongest
hold upon thy feelings and in which the welfare of the
country may be effected, thou wilt be allowed to experi
ence a quietude of mind. And if thou could be favored
with a rest from all these concerns it would be what I
would desire for thee; that all the more place could be
given to those things which affect thy eternal interest
in that world which is to come, for as thou expressed

Age 58 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 247
the belief that we did not end with this life, as also a
belief in Christianity, so I would that the thoughts con
nected with these great subjects might be dwelt upon.
The word Eternity is full of significance; and Chris
tianity is that which rightly prepares us for it, for
through it we experience repentance and remission of
sins, as also a well-grounded hope of a blessed immor
tality. The first step in the great work is to know of the
strivings of the Spirit in the soul, and then to see our
selves as we are seen by the Omniscient eye with the
conviction that there is a way to obtain peace with our
Maker through our Holy Redeemer. This is Christian
ity — the Father drawing through the Son and we through
Him, obtaining Eternal Life. "This is life Eternal," said
our Saviour, "that they might know thee, the only true
God and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." And the
same holy influences by which we may be prepared for a
better inheritance when done with time here can qualify
us for a faithful discharge of our duties, if life is con
tinued. Sincerely thy friend, J. S. E.
Eighth month 8. Met with a young man who, in course
of conversation, spoke of its being waste of time to
attend to religion, and that the great men did not do it;
to which I replied that many who were considered great
men had too little regard for it, but that it was the

248 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1888
only thing to make men truly great. I hope the invitation
of Divine love and mercy may be extended to him.
Eighth month 16. At a meeting at Arch Street I was
bowed in supplication, desiring the compassionate regard
of our Heavenly Father, who could give us of the Spirit
of Grace to wrestle availingly for his blessing; that He
would watch over us for good, and give us to experience,
"that as our day is, so might our strength be." We have
cause for thankfulness in that we have been preserved
from dangers, seen and unseen, and that this blessing
of preservation might be continued, and we made a bless
ing to our generation. I think this was the first time
that I had been engaged in public service in my own
meeting for three months.
Tenth month i. Attended the funeral of our dear
friend George Abbott in the morning, and in the after
noon went to Crosswicks to attend the appointed meet
ing in the evening, with other members of the Yearly
Meeting's Committee. About one hundred and twenty
were present. Charles Rhoads delivered a remarkable
communication, first enlarging on the first two sentences
in what is called the Lord's Prayer, and then in bringing
out points of Christian doctrine, and before he finished
he spoke emphatically on the pernicious publications
attacking the Bible and fraught with infidel principles.
I followed after a pause, stating that I could speak as
another witness to the influence of the spirit of infidelity,
and I believed it was a time for the trumpet to be

Age 58 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 249
sounded. Others followed, both in line of the ministry
and supplication. A friend remarked after meeting he
was glad to hear me say it was a time to blow the
trumpet. Tenth month ii. We had a good meeting at Arch
Street to-day, there being a pretty full attendance of the
school. My son Joseph rose and spoke from the text,
"A greater than Solomon is here," on which I thought
he enlarged to good purpose and in the Life, alluding to
those who repented at the preaching of Jonah; and the
expression of the Queen of Sheba, who said the half had
not been told her of the beauty of the Lord's house after
she had seen the sitting of the King's servants, etc. I
felt justified in following my son, indorsing what he
said as being in keeping with the expression of the
Psalmist, "One thing have I desired of the Lord, and
that will I seek after, that I might see the beauty of the
Lord and inquire in his pavilion. He shall set my feet
upon a rock." I also adverted to the difference with
which we at times went to meetings, sometimes having a
sense that the Lord would be pleased to meet with us,
and at other times having to wrestle for the blessing,
brought to our knees, it might be, before meeting, craving
that a measure of dignity and Divine influence might be
granted, knowing that, without Holy help, we could do
nothing to advance the Redeemer's Kingdom.
Tenth month 20. Extract from a letter by J. S. E.,
dated Bethlehem, Pennsylvania:

250 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1888
I came to this place on a business trip for our firm,
having taken up this week a matter that has given me
some traveling that was not in a religious line. The
beauty of the autumn scenery with the changing foliage,
on the sides of the hills and mountains, and without the
responsibility of meetings, is having quite a reviving
effect on my spirit.
Tenth month 28. This morning, instead of attending
my own meeting I inclined to go to the Southwark Li
brary, 765-767 South Second street, over which were
gathered about one hundred Norwegians, who assemble
there for worship. They have no regular minister, but
one by request addresses them, and all their vocal service
is conducted in the Norwegian language. They expressed
a willingness that our Yearly Meeting's Committee should
hold a meeting there. A considerable proportion of them
were sailors.
Eleventh month 4. My dear wife went to meeting
with me this morning. Mother Patterson was also there
and spoke with clearness and force, her principal concern
being that we should endeavor to stand acquitted in the
great day of account. I followed her, stating that we
should unquestionably all have to stand before the judg
ment seat of Christ, who would render to every man
according as his work shall be; to those who, by patient
continuance in well doing, seek for eternal life, it should
be given them.

Age 58 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 251
Extract from a letter by J. S. E., dated Philadelphia,
Eleventh month 7, 1888 :
I am not much acquainted with those who call them
selves the River Brethren, but suppose them to be closely
allied to the Mennonites, amongst whom I have traveled
to a limited extent and found them as near like the
Society of Friends as any people I have met. On one
occasion, after one of their ministers had spoken to some
length in German, I followed, delivering the same in
English, although I had no knowledge of what he had
said, not being acquainted with the language. Last year
I visited their meetings in two conferences. I think I
attended about fifty meetings, with an average attendance
of about three hundred. I felt my mind drawn to the
River Brethren, but thought what I had undertaken
among the Mennonites was enough for one journey.
These vessels of ours are earthen, and there is a limit
to our physical as well as spiritual strength. Whilst we
do not serve a hard Master, yet our frames are frail,
and it is good for us sometimes to go into a desert place
and rest awhile. The disciples had to spend a time
mending their nets, and my father, who was an experi
enced elder, would speak of this mending of the net as
profitable employment. — J. S. E.
Eleventh month. In our Quarterly Meeting one of
our younger members appeared in supplication. I want
that charity and forbearance should be exercised towards
those who are young in the ministry.

252 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1888
Eleventh month 22. At Arch Street we had a pretty
large meeting. I felt there were divers states and con
ditions, and those of different capacity, from amongst
whom I trusted there were not a few who came there
to meet their Maker, who was able to minister to our
several needs. My son Joseph, after a solid silence,
brought up the language of the silversmith, about Diana,
comparing Diana to the Goddess of Fashion, which,
though not made of iron or stone, was nevertheless real
and was too much worshipped. He dwelt particularly
on the subject of simplicity of speech, behavior and
apparel. I felt thankful to have a son who is disposed
thus to advocate the cause of his Master. My mind
reverted to the day when I took my seat after a com
munication that I had delivered, some years ago, when it
seemed as if I were made sensible of a measure of the
Spirit settling upon my son, accompanied with the belief
that a part in the work would be given him; and now
that I have lived to be confirmed in this matter, it is
attended with feelings of solemnity ; that the promises of
the Lord are sure, as also the solicitude I now feel for
the extension of that power which can give or create,
also preserve and keep from falling.
Extract from a letter by J. S. E., dated Eleventh month
26, 1888:
I feel an appointment on the Yearly Meeting's Com
mittee as one of the most absorbing and important trusts
that I have been engaged in, and during the last month

Age 58 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 253
or more we have held divers appointed meetings, as well
as visited in some families, and I think I may say we
have experienced divine counsel and support in the work.
Extract from a letter by J. S. E., dated Twelfth month
27, 1888:
I have no regrets for the time spent, either in assisting
others who were in the harness, or in whatever way
I may have ministered to the necessities of the Saints.
Would that I had but lived near the Master so as to
have been more sensible of his mind and will and been
a better advocate of the blessed cause, but all I can
hope for now is, that in the mercy of our Heavenly
Father, my sins of omission and commission may be
forgiven, and through Holy Help be enabled in the little
remainder of days that may be granted me, to fill prop
erly my measure of service and of suffering.
At a meeting of the joint committee of the Yearly and
Quarterly Meetings appointed to visit our subordinate Meetings
and members, held at Media the thirty-first of Twelfth month,
1888: Our friends, Joseph S. Elkinton and Zebedee Haines, having
opened a concern to visit the families of Birmingham Monthly
Meeting, it was fully and feelingly united with, and they encour
aged to proceed therein in the openings of best wisdom. Our
friend, Joseph Rhoads, having expressed a willingness to accom
pany them, he is left at liberty and encouraged to do so.
By direction of the Committee.
Edward G. S medley, Clerk.
First month 2, 1889. I went to West Chester, in com
pany with Zebedee Haines and Joseph Rhoads, to attend
the Monthly Meeting. Our concern was opened in the

254 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 18S9
Monthly Meeting by presenting the minute granted us by
the joint committee of the Yearly and Quarterly Meet
ings. There was full unity expressed in a kind and feeling
manner. It is a cause for humble gratitude that the
way is thus opened for us.
First month 4. Left Philadelphia on the seven o'clock
train, and was joined later by Joseph Rhoads and Zebedee
Haines, and proceeded to West Chester, where we com
menced our visiting families, and before the day was
over paid eight visits, meeting with an openness in the
minds of those we visited, and had cause to commemorate
the goodness of the Lord for the help afforded in the
service. First month 7 and 9. Spent the past three days con
tinuing visiting families in and around West Chester.
An exercising and laborious service, but I trust not a
profitless one; for where the presence of the Master is
vouchsafed, it is all-sufficient, but I can think of no
service where we have more need to keep near Him, for
we hourly need his preserving and qualifying Power.
First month 13. Zebedee Haines and I attended West
Chester Meeting, in which I was engaged, both in sup
plication and testimony. I was concerned that we might
not hold the Truth in unrighteousness, and that gifts
should be recognized, and that none should pride them
selves in their gifts.
First month 28. Attended the Monthly Meeting at
Media, and dined at Clarkson Sheppard's. At the dinner

Age 59 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 255
table, after the first silence, C. S. said that the Jews
said "he who did not return thanks stole from the Al
mighty." Second month i. Our granddaughter, Anna R. Elkin
ton, was born — the child of our son William and his wife.
Second month io. First-day. Our meeting at Orange
Street seemed decidedly larger than usual, and a number
of strangers present. My son Joseph spoke pretty early
in the meeting, his subject being on "Returning to
Bethel." I was in sympathy with his exercise. I com
menced speaking with, "Are there not those here to-day
who were seldom if ever here before ? And what brought
them ? Was it that the prayers of some should in meas
ure be answered, that if consistent with the Divine Will,
there might be a gathering, and the meeting might be
held in the Life? Or was it because the Spirit of the
Lord was moving in the hearts of the people? As mat
ter, in the outer creation, attracts matter, so in the
Spiritual creation there is that which draws together that
which inclines to walk by the same rule, and mind the
same thing, and to feed upon the same Spiritual Bread
and drink the same Spiritual Drink. And if we come
together, craving that the Lord would strengthen that
part in us which reaches forth, after Him, we are then
near the place of Worship."
Second month 12. Attended the Quarterly Meeting
at Media. I took up the last sentence of the one who
spoke before me, "Come up to the help of the Lord

256 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1889
against the mighty," by saying, "If we would come up
to the help of the Lord against the mighty," we should
possess the right kind of faith, and I enlarged thereon.
I also said "we might at times go to our meetings under
a comfortable assurance that the Lord would favor us
with his presence; and then we might go in great weak
ness, but we had better go with what we had to offer, if
it were no more than our time and the disposition to
contend against wandering thoughts."
Second month 21. Monthly Meeting. Being released
from the committee having charge of the almshouse
property, also that to inspect and relieve the necessities
of the poor, I stated that after being under such an
appointment about thirty-five years, I took it kindly;
that it was accepted as my share, and that I wished to
encourage those now appointed to the weighty trust com
mitted to them. The proceeds of the property were for
the support of the poor, and as there was likely now to
be a sufficiency for them, I hoped they would be dealt
with liberally. There are some cases in their present
condition, from mismanagement, and the withdrawal of
the Divine blessing, and it requires Heavenly wisdom to
deal properly with them; and there are the Lord's poor,
and I would that, with varied pressure on the mind, even
men of business should not conclude they had not time
to visit the poor. If I had my time to live over again
I would spend more of it at the bedside of the sick.
Third month 4. A wet day for the inauguration of

Age 59 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 257
Benjamin Harrison as President of the United States.
It is reported, never have so many been in or about
Washington. Amidst all the folly and noise, we have
cause to be thankful that changes in our rulers can be
effected as peaceably as they appear to be.
A message to Elwood Dean, extracted from a letter
by J. S. E., Third month 6, 1889 :
If it is suitable, tell thy dear husband I do love him,
and having started on the race since he did, it is possible
that I shall be left on the field a little longer, but I hope
to press on in the little ability afforded, endeavoring to
fill up my allotted portion, and with the humble petition,
Lord give me life, the best life, the spirit by which we
can move and act aright; and if consistent with his will,
that I may have an increase of faith ; that as it was with
those who have finished their course and obtained the
victory, I might serve my generation according to the
Divine will, and that the end of my conversation might
be Christ Jesus, the same yesterday, to-day and forever.
Dear mother Patterson is showing age, but she is pre
served in the sweetness and with a measure of the
Divine power that enables her to bear the breaking up
of Nature, which may be more or less prolonged; but
contentment in the Divine will has been learned by her
in the school of Christ. In sincerity, J. S. E.
Fifth month 13. The evening previous to Concord
Quarterly Meeting we had a very pleasant company at
Benjamin Passmore's. In the course of the evening the

258 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1889
80th Psalm was read. Deborah Rhoads felt impressed
with the favor we had in the overshadowing of the
Heavenly Influence, and her heart, as well as some
others, was enlarged toward some of the younger ones
present. There was one time in the opportunity when
I said in my heart, "This is a taste of Heaven."
Fifth month 18. My son Joseph leaves to-day to start
out with David Heston to visit within the limits of Muney
Monthly Meeting. May the Good Spirit be with him so
that he may know and keep his place and move in the
ordering of Best Wisdom. It is a comfort or joy to a
parent to have a child to walk in the Truth, and we know
there is a power which, if kept, will preserve.

CHAPTER X.
Gospel Labors Among White and Colored People.
Tenth month 28. David Comfort and I left Philadel
phia at 8.50 A. M. for Tunesassa.
Tenth month 29. On our arrival at the school we re
ceived a hearty welcome by the family. The children
have not. yet come in, and there is a prospect of a larger
number than at any former period. Twenty-five girls
and fifteen boys are expected.
After dinner we were taken to the Council House at
Cold Spring, where there was a meeting of the Six
Nations being held. It was near 2 o'clock when we
arrived, and they were about to proceed with an after
noon session. I was surprised there were so few I could
recognize, Moses Yellowblanket being about the only one.
After a little time they granted us an opportunity to
address them. I spoke at some length, telling them I
had felt impressed to meet the Indians in that place be
fore I left home and rehearsed a little of the intercourse
which had existed between our fathers and their fathers,
and delivered such matter as seemed to arise; afterward
engaged in supplication. David Comfort told them he
was glad to be with them, and spoke in an affectionate
manner, giving them weighty counsel. They told our
interpreter, Harrison Halftown, to tell us they thanked
us for the visit and some of them, particularly the women,
259

260 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1889
had been much affected by what was offered in the line
of prayer. They had never felt before as they did that
day, and the feeling remained with them throughout the
day after we left.
Tenth month 30. Spent the day visiting among the
Indians. We found some sick and some in sorrow, and
a few who had been our best scholars at the school were
apparently thrifty and prosperous, which was encourag
ing. When we returned to the school the children had
come in from their respective homes. I had an interest
ing talk with several of the boys in a room fitted up for
their accommodation.
Tenth month 31. We visited the school before meeting
and heard the children read the Bible and recite. In the
latter exercise one child surprised me by the amount she
had committed to memory and the manner she delivered
one of the deep chapters of Revelations. Our meeting
was an impressive one. The afternoon was spent in the
schools. We were especially interested in the exercises
on the blackboards in mathematics and etymology. Good
progress has been made.
Eleventh month 1. After breakfast, David Comfort
and I bid farewell at the school and turned our faces
homeward. Eleventh month 4. At our Quarterly Meeting an un
usual number of ministers were present, I was told
twenty-six acknowledged ministers, some of whom were

Age 59 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 261
members of the Yearly Meeting's Committee and some
from a distance.
Twelfth month 5. During the past several years I
have copied from accessible papers matter concerning
the Indians in the eastern part of the United States,
mostly taken from the minutes of the Indian Committee,
abstracting the points of importance and having them
copied on uniform sized paper. I have had them bound
in ten volumes. The original object in copying them
was to have them in convenient shape for reference,
hoping also that I might have a son to succeed me in
the Indian work. But upon more mature consideration
I concluded to present the volumes to the Indian Com
mittee. After recopying such parts as were obtained
from other sources than the unpublished papers of the
committee, I delivered eight volumes to George J. Scat
tergood, clerk of the Indian Committee.
I have a concern to do what in me lies in the direction
of setting my house in order, which in nowise hinders
one from living, if the Lord is pleased to grant us a con
tinuance in this state of being a little longer.
I remarked to G. J. S. that if my children behave in a
worthy manner, I would wish them to be allowed access
to the above volumes for reference, if they should desire.
First month 2, 1890. I have continued my reading in
George Fox's Doctrinal Works, to my instruction and
admiration, as to how he was strengthened for the work
of his day in addressing those in authority, even the

262 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1890
heads of government and the pope, to whom he was
very plain.
First month 6. Our dear friend Joseph Scattergood
is no more, having departed this life yesterday afternoon
— a great loss to the Church, and Israel may well mourn
and doubtless will. He was valiant for the Truth upon
the earth.
A newspaper clipping which was preserved by J. S. E. :
There has been a Conference sitting at Chickering
Hall, which began on Monday evening, and continued
during the next two days, in obedience to a call signed
by many of the prominent clergymen and churchgoers
in the city. The fact which has called them together
is this:
"The population of New York city has for years been
steadily and rapidly increasing, while at the same time
the number of churches has been relatively decreasing.
In 1840 there was one Protestant church to every 2,000
people; in 1880, one to 3,000; in 1887, one to 4,000."
Each one will interpret this fact in his own way. That
it means something by no means pleasant or hopeful,
however, every one will agree. The churches contain a
very large proportion of the wealth, intelligence, public
spirit and right-mindedness of the community. They are,
if not the only, the chief organizations we have, whose
direct aim is to exert, in the highest sense, a civilizing
influence. If they are not multiplying in proportion to

Age 60 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 263
population, therefore, it means that the forces of bar
barism are in some degree gaining on us.
It would appear from the call to the conference that
the churches are at last beginning to understand that
they have ceased, or are rapidly ceasing, to be a puri
fying and agressive power, and that something needs
to be done about it; in other words, that if they mean
to hold their own as moral and religious agencies, they
must, once for all, cease to be what too many of the
Protestant churches are — pleasant and fashionable Sun
day clubs, where wearied business men have their intel
lectual palates tickled once a week with good music,
good society and soothing reflections on life, and death
and judgment.
Some of them have tried, with much outlay and labor,
to do their duty towards the city poor and ignorant,
by establishing missions and outlying chapels, and so
forth, and some of the subjects set down for addresses
at the conference seemed to indicate a conviction that
what is needed is a further extension of this system of
missionary effort. We may instance the following as
being suggestive of such effort: "The Bohemian Ele
ment," "The Italian Element," "The Colored Element,"
"Our Duty to the Foreign Population."
One of the things we hope for from the conference is
a great clearing of both the clerical and lay mind on
this subject. The poor and ignorant, and barbarous, and
anarchical, and indifferent of this city, or of any other,

264 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1890
are not what they were fifty or one hundred years ago.
They cannot be any longer won, or persuaded, or raised,
by simple preaching, or even by almsgiving. They have
become too knowing or too cunning for that. They are
envious and suspicious of the rich and well-to-do, and
they are tired of the old gospel of contentment when
delivered by people who have all the comforts this world
can give. Nothing touches them nowadays but the spec
tacle of self-sacrifice. Therefore no impression, or very
little impression, can be made on them by churches
which worship in fashionable quarters, on $100,000 lots
in $500,000 buildings, in which sittings are bought and
sold with a heavy brokerage to the sexton, at enormous
prices, and reserved for occupation by the owner as jeal
ously as his private parlor, in which the music is hired at
the cost of an opera troupe in a small German city, and
discussed in the same temper and with the same standard
that people apply to Patti or Nilsson.
It is impossible to persuade a poor man that these are
really religious organizations, and that they are really
meant to show mankind the way to Heaven. Nor can
they "corner" a poor man by asking him, as some church
goers do occasionally, how it would be possible to "run
the church," human nature being what it is, without
selling the pews at high rates, if not, as in some cases,
to the highest bidders. He will not argue this point. He
says it is for Christians to find out how to make room for
him at God's altar, and he makes merry over spiritual

Age 60 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 265
insight which is unequal to the solution of this extremely
earthly problem.
In short, the attack on the "Bohemian Element," and
the "Italian Element," and the "Colored Element," must
begin in the churches themselves by the display of greater
simplicity and of greater indifference to money, and by
some approach, for at least one day in the week, to the
asceticism which once conquered the world.
Two or three Protestant churches have made a step
in this direction, and we know of nothing in the religious
worship of the city which is half so moving as the spec
tacle they present when crowded on Sunday with a plain
and even shabbily dressed multitude, who truly know
what that weight of care is
"That crushes into dumb despair
One half the human race."
But the two or three which have turned over a new
leaf work under great disadvantages as long as the
majority, a few blocks away, continue to carry out the
club idea; and pastor and people give Satan full swing
during the hot summer months, when the poor swelter
and their children perish in the tenement houses. There
cannot be two standards of fitness in Christian life. If
the free church be the real thing, there must, the poor
man will say, be something wrong with its blessings and
promises. In short, if religious organizations are to
make any impression on the masses of ignorance and
barbarism which are accumulating in New York, they

266 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1891
must work under a common discipline and with the same
outward signs of sincerity and good faith. — Quoted with
approval from The Nation.
First month i, 1891. Our daughter Mary and Inazo
Nitobe were married this day.
First month 12, 1891. This day our daughter left us for
Japan. On parting with her, the only expression to
which I could give utterance was, "Thou are my daugh
ter, and I love thee."
Fifth month 7. Went to Wilmington Monthly Meet
ing, and in the meeting for business after the minute was
read liberating Jonathan E. Rhoads to appoint and attend
meetings in Delaware and Maryland within the limits of
our Yearly Meeting, I stated that I also had obtained a
minute to accompany him, and desired we might have a
place in their thoughts, for whilst the Divine support
was what we were to depend upon, yet it was a help to
have the sympathetic interest of our friends.
The following letter was received from Abraham
No-Heart, one of the Indian delegates who were at my
house some weeks ago after having been at Washington :
Cheyenne River Agency, April 18, 1891.
Joseph S. Elkinton,
My Friend: I will now say something to you, how
we are doing. I will tell you something of which the
Dakotas believe very much. We, the Indians, believe
God's Word is on earth, and now for many years a
number of the Indians have been turning themselves to

Age 61 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 267
the church of God; and now about half of the people
are thus prepared to walk in the Truth in the future,
and we know that this is good for the people, therefore
we desire to send and do send our children to get learn
ing that we may walk with them hereafter with glad
hearts. The old notions of our people we no longer like,
and I constantly hear our people talking of God's Word,
etc., and their idea of its being alone good for them.
More than half of the people dress as white men. I
remember my coming with others to your house and
your good words, and I wish all our people walked in
the Truth. I shake hands with you from my heart.
Abraham No-Heart.
Fifth month 18. Jonathan E. Rhoads and I went to
Dover and visited the prison. The first person we were
brought face to face with was a man condemned to death,
his sentence to be executed next month. It was a shock
to be thus brought into contact with one in his circum
stances, but we endeavored to speak to him in the ability
afforded and of the need of repentance and coming to
be at peace with our Maker. We would desire the law
might be changed which in Delaware has yet three dif
ferent offenses punishable with death. Whilst some
advance has been made there is much room for improve
ment. Capital punishment, the whipping post and the
heavy chains which still seem to be in use, belong to a
barbarous age and should be discarded. We spoke to a
number collected and playing cards, and to others in

268 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1891
their private cells. It was sad and heavy work talking
with these men, and we left the prison feeling much
reduced in our physical strength.
Fifth month 24. First-day morning, Harrington, Dela
ware. Remembering the pressing invitation received
yesterday from the two pastors, J. C. Casey and John
A. B. Wilson (presiding elder), to come and worship
with them at their place of worship this morning, I said
to J. E. R., I believed it was made in sincerity and I
found he felt prepared to go there. I never went to a
meeting for worship under the same circumstances, but
when I witnessed the fervency and comprehensiveness
with which J. E. R. was engaged in supplication, I
thought we were in our right place. After the presiding
elder, J. A. B. Wilson, finished his discourse, he gave us
an opportunity to express ourselves. After the meeting
he expressed himself as having been much impressed
with what was offered, and gave us the following letter
of introduction to show any Methodist minister in the
Dover district, to help us in our travels:
Methodist Episcopal Church.
Wilmington Conference, Dover District.
John A. B. Wilson, Presiding Elder.
Fifth month 24, 1891.
To any Methodist Episcopal Pastor in Dover District.
Dear Brethren : This will introduce Jonathan E. Rhoads
and Joseph S. Elkinton, ministers of the Society of Friends.
You can safely and I think wisely extend to them the courtesy
of your church and pulpit. They are not Presbyters, but min
isters of Christ, who feel that they have a message from God

Age 61 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 269
unto the people. They will do us good, not evil, wherever they
come. They go forth on this mission at their own charge. Can
you assist them in finding a quiet boarding place, enabling them
to avoid the hotels where liquor is sold?
"Beloved, thou doest faithfully by whatsoever thou doest to
the brethren and strangers which have been witness of thy
charity before the Church, whom if thou bring forward on their
journey after a Godly sort, thou shalt do well, because that for
His name's sake, they went forth, taking nothing of (he Gentiles ;
we therefore are to receive such that we might be fellow-helpers
to the Truth."— 3 John 5-8. Your Brother, John A. B. Wilson.
Sixth month 2. I went to Salisbury to make arrange
ments for holding a meeting in that place. I proceeded
to the court house, which is the most pretentious structure
of its kind I have seen since I left home, and inquired
for the president of the county commissioners, but was
told he had gone to dinner, but the whole board of com
missioners would be in session for about an hour. I
returned later and found the president of the board
seated with the other commissioners and an outside party,
who seemed to be a man of note, who said, when I made
known my errand, "You will excuse my freedom, but
that man has a face that you had better let him have
what he wants. I think he is a Quaker ; and the Presby
terians are a good deal like the Quakers in one point,
and that is, they get a good deal in the silent, secret and
sacred moments." I remarked those sacred moments
are of great account to us when we get them. The

270 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1891
"board" granted me the use of the court house for a
meeting to be held on the Fifth-day evening.
At our meeting last evening there were four minis
ters of other societies present, all of whom seemed much
impressed and expressed their satisfaction. Quite a
number came up to us after meeting to inquire into the
views of Friends, notwithstanding J. E. R. at the close
of the meeting expressed his desire, that if any had par
taken of any crumbs of Living Bread, that they would
not enter into much conversation, but "gather up the
fragments." Sixth month 4. Salisbury. As I was walking on the
street this afternoon, after seeing that all necessary
preparations had been made for our meeting this evening
in the court house, I was accosted by the Episcopalian
minister, who said he supposed I was one of the Friends,
and he was very glad, he said, for us to come and try
to do what we could, and he was willing to help us.
Well, then, I said, if he could find some one who knew
the people well to assist in properly seating them, that
would be a help. "That I will," he said, "and I will
bring my ushers and will be there myself a half hour
before the time, that you can consult me about anything
you wish, for you may be assured the court house will
be full."
It would now seem that about all that is wanting is
for J. E. R. and myself to be rightly prostrated before
the Lord, seeking to know his will and craving his help.

Age 61 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 271
Sixth month 5. It was a large meeting last evening,
and the Episcopal minister, with his two ushers, were
there and the people well seated. J. E. R. was very
plain in the ministry, and while we were both speaking
we had the attention of the people as if there were that
being poured out that was different from that to which
they had been accustomed.
Sixth month 7. Princess Ann. Soon after breakfast
we went to the jail, where we had an interesting inter
view with the deputy sheriff and his wife, after which
we were given an opportunity with the prisoners, who
were assembled in one room for us. I began by saying
that there was a chord in every man's heart that might
be touched or moved unless they had become so hardened
as to be past all feeling; and after finishing what I had
to say, J. E. R. spoke, but was interrupted by a strong,
lusty man, who had a terrible passion for fighting, on
which account he was in jail. He had indeed a fiery
spirit. He called out, "If any man turns his nose up at
me for being in prison, I'll knock him down!" For a
moment the situation was a little critical, but I felt thank
ful J. E. R. held his own and was not particularly jostled.
By the time J. E. R. was through, the man softened a
little and said, "Well, you talk a little different from
some of the preachers," and then, turning to one beside
him, said, "What did that last preacher who was here
say ?" The one beside him answered, "The Depravity of
the Human Heart," and the old fighter said, "and I

272 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1391
cleared him out in a hurry; now I just tell you if a man
insults me I am going to thrash him." He then went on
to say he was a Christian, but he would thrash anybody
who insulted him. There was no use in being a coward.
I replied, "There might be more bravery and fortitude in
knowing how to bear an injury without resenting it, and
if the Christian religion governs us, we will not resent."
I felt a motion in the line of prayer, but thought it might
be taking that man a little farther than he would bear,
or giving the nail one stroke too many and the board
be split, but J. E. R. engaged in it, first that the keeper of
the prison might have Divine support and then on behalf
of the prisoners, and that lusty fighter went upon his
knees. We came off peaceably, taking the man by the
hand; but to be locked up with such desperadoes does
make us want to know what we are there for.
From there we were taken to the county house, about
three miles off, where we found several grave cases of
illness and things generally, on account thereof, in poor
condition, which we reported to the deputy sheriff on our
return to Princess Ann, and he promised to send one of
the county commissioners over there to investigate the
state of things, which he did.
Sixth month 8. At Crisfield we walked along the
shore among the oyster-packing establishments, but not
an oyster have I seen in the place, in the shell or out of
it, it being out of season, but large piles of shells were
in evidence. We were told that this is the greatest oyster

Age 61 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 273
packing place in the United States next to Baltimore, and
there are seven hundred oyster vessels belonging to it.
We went into one of the packing houses, where there
was a woman packing up soft-shelled crabs for the
Chicago market. She sent her son out with us in a little
boat where these crabs were in the pens shedding their
shells. It was an interesting sight.
I had an interesting conversation with the man who
was the tender of the drawbridge into the crab-pond and
who hailed me, saying he wanted to know what subject I
was going to illustrate to-night. Oh, I told him he knew
about as much as I could tell him ; that we Friends never
prepare our sermons, and I could not tell whether I would
have any subject to speak on or not. I gave him what
tracts I had with me, and he promised to distribute them
after reading them himself.
Sixth month 14. In traveling, we often have the in
firmities of flesh to contend with. The eating of so much
pork does not suit us, but these things are not worthy
of mention if we can only experience in a little measure
the flowings of that Life which William Penn speaks of
characterizing meetings held in his day, and in one of
these described as being held in the Meeting-house at
Third Haven, when there were one thousand persons
present, in which Lord and Lady Baltimore came in late.
William Penn said, "The flowing of Life was passing
off the meeting," when Lady Baltimore expressed her
disappointment, for she said to William Penn, "We ex-

274 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1891
pect you can preach, you have talent, but I wanted to
hear some of the ploughmen preach," to which William
Penn replied, "Some of the ploughmen and rustics are
amongst our best preachers."
Sixth month 25. Federalsburg. Upon our arrival here
we found that the message sent by mail for an appoint
ment here this evening had not been received, so it gave
us some concern. In an interview with the Presbyterian
minister he kindly gave consent to our using his place of
worship and, meeting the Methodist pastor on the street,
he offered to do what he could to help us. We hastily
filled out notices and had them distributed. The land
lady of the hotel told us it was a poor time for holding a
meeting, for the ladies were all going to meet this evening
to drill for the fourth of next month, but we thought
it best to go on with our meeting.
At the appointed time we repaired to the place where
our meeting was to be held, and after a while the people
began to come in, and it was astonishing how the house
filled up. I heard afterward that the Methodist minister
sent word to his congregation, who were to have a
prayer-meeting, to postpone that and come to ours, and
an aged Methodist, about seventy-five, went to where the
women were assembled to drill and told them they had
better drop that and go at once to the meeting we had
appointed, and there was some other gathering induced
to adjourn and come to ours ; and it was thought we had
a representative from every family in the place. J. E. R.

Age 61 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 275
acknowledged after meeting that he had never felt more
freedom in the ministry, and his prayer was one in which
any righteous person could take satisfaction.
Seventh month 29. Returned home near noon. Had
a friendly interview with our Mayor, Edwin Stuart. The
drift of what I said to him was to encourage him to do
what he could for the suppression of vice. He mani
fested a very kindly spirit, telling me that he would make
way for a visit any time I wished to see him.
Eighth month 16. Among the incidents told recently
at the time of the funeral of Bishop Campbell (colored)
was one of Theodore Gould, whom I have thought as
deep a minister as any I have met among the colored
people. At one time he (T. G.) was given to tampering
with liquor. The bishop told him if he did not quit that
the Lord would kill him; the Lord wanted him for the
ministry. T. G. said, "I knew that before he told me."
He gave up the liquor, and after being in the ministry
awhile at Trenton, he became discouraged and felt he
was useless, so he went to Bishop Campbell and told him
to put a better man in his place and let him return to his
former occupation. The bishop nodded his head while
T. G. was talking as if he took it all in, and T. G. sup
posed he would assent to the proposition, but the bishop
said, "Young man, I like to hear you speak that way, for
most young ministers feel very competent, but when they
feel their own insufficiency the Lord is likely to make
something of them. You go and do your work, and the

276 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1891
Lord help you ; and if you come back with the same story
I will send you back again. Only let me say to you, don't
expect to do all your work at once."
Eighth month 27. Monthly Meeting. In the second
meeting I delivered up my minute granted me in the
Fourth month and reported that, joined with Jonathan
E. Rhoads, we had public meetings in that part of the
peninsula that was embraced in the limits of our Yearly
Meeting, and we had cause to be thankful for the manner
in which way was made for us and the measure of Divine
influence granted us; especially as the testimony was
plain against unitarianism, and priestcraft, and J. E. R.
was emphatically bold against war and the manufacture
of instruments of cruelty. There were not many colored
people at the public meetings, so we attended a number
of their meetings and were kindly received. We had
many interviews with ministers of other denominations.
We also visited the jails and almshouses, some of which
were conducted behind the intelligence of the age. In
our intercourse and correspondence with those in author
ity or whom we thought might have an influence we
pleaded for amelioration.
There were but few living representatives of our
Society in that section of the country, but, notwithstand
ing, there was a great regard felt for the Society of
Friends, and I trust we left an open door behind us.
The report was accepted and satisfaction expressed.
Ninth month 3. This is the thirty-fifth anniversary

Age 61 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 277
of our wedding day, during which time we have seen
many of the exercises of life, but have cause for thank
fulness that we are still spared to each other and have
been recipients of many mercies.
Tenth month 24. Had a comfortable time this evening
with dear mother Patterson. She spoke of the tendency
of the times to live too much without that watchfulness
of spirit which should mark our lives, yet she believed
there was a spirit at work which would restore the right
feeling. Her remarks in general were very comforting
to me.
Tenth month 25. As our morning meeting gathered
I was comforted, tendered and contrited, and I might
say it had a soul-satisfying effect, to feel that same sense
of Divine covering and power that was felt when I was
in my rising manhood, say some forty years ago, was
still to be felt in our assemblies.
Twelfth month. I would wish to be less weighted in
the evening of my day, not so much to be out of work,
but that the mind may be more free for contemplation
and religious service, if the Lord should be pleased to
use me; but communion with Him is what I would wish
to have my delight in, so far as it is His pleasure to favor
me therewith.
First month 1, 1892. I went out about noon to-day and
was grieved with the sight of multitudes in grotesque and
fantastic dress. The sidewalks were crowded with spec
tators. How illy befitting the times, when so many are

278 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1892
prostrated with the epidemic (la grippe), also suffering
the privation which poverty entails. For, as it is right
eousness that exalteth a nation, so sin is a reproach to
any people; so we cannot but feel that the blessings of
the Lord will, in a measure, be withheld because of
unrighteousness ; still, we must believe that for the elect's
sake, mercy will be extended, and that in the compas
sionate love of the Redeemer the manifestation of the
Good Spirit will be given unto man, and we will hope
there will be a turning of the hearts of some of the
people unto the Lord.
Copy of a letter from Jonathan E. Rhoads to Joseph
S. Elkinton: Wilmington, First month 20, 1892.
Joseph S. Elkinton,
Dear Friend: I think our hearts must have been
mutually turned towards each other at nearly the same
time, as I had been thinking of thee, and almost wishing
I could have a visit from thee this week. But now I have
the next best thing — a loving and sympathizing letter.
It truly makes me feel of very little account to be
laid by, entirely dependent on others for care and subject
to the direction of a doctor and nurse, however excellent
they may be. But one can be helped to look at the other
side of the situation and feel thankful for the unmerited
favor of being provided for at such a time of weakness
and liability to serious disease, realizing that, as in many
instances within our knowledge its results have proved

Age 62 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 279
fatal; so with ourselves, a want of care and due submis
sion to restraints that are prescribed by those whose
judgment demands respect, may prematurely cut the
thread of life, ere the designs of a gracious Providence
are fulfilled as to one's complete service in this world.
In such times of seclusion from the active duties of
life may indeed be found deep instruction in the knowl
edge that it is so important we should rightly learn;
and a deeper insight may be given us into our true rela
tion to our Lord and Master, and by a full submission of
our whole being to his disposal, learn to leave the
direction of all events that concern us to Him, as well
as the guidance of our efforts in the furtherance of his
cause of Truth and Righteousness.
Those of other persuasions have their organized
methods and concerted plans for religious labor which
often meet with much success. For us who profess in
an eminent degree to rely upon Him who is Head over
all to his Church, there is no safe plan to pursue, but to
depend upon his going before us and leading in that
way which He will cast up step by step for his dependent
followers. As to my present state of health, while I have recov
ered so far as to be down stairs, it does not seem prudent
to expose myself to this wintry weather; nor does my
strength give promise of doing efficient labor. It has
been a plain case of the prevailing distemper without
violent symptoms, but accompanied with loss of strength.

280 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1892
So far as recovery has taken place, there has been no
set-back, and I hope soon to resume my ordinary occu
pation. Thy superior energy and strength of purpose have
carried thee through much unselfish toil for the good of
others, and I have no doubt thy reward comes with it.
It would be our natural desire in these times, when
faithful laborers are few, that such as have been rightly
prepared and proved might be continued long upon this
stage of action. But he who calls laborers into his
vineyard knows when to give them rest from their works,
and they shall receive from Him according as these
have been.
Please remember me to Malinda.
Thy loving friend,
Jonathan E. Rhoads.
Fifth month i. At noon I was taken by Joseph Turn
penny to the Pennsylvania Hospital, and saw about
thirty-eight of those who had been burned in the fire at
the Central Theatre. They were a ghastly sight, and the
superintendent said that in the annals of the hospital,
unless in time of war, there had never been such a
scene; their sufferings, together with the horror of soul
of some of them must feel, are indeed terrible to think of.
This theatre was burned about 9 P. M. by the stage
curtains catching fire and one hundred persons were
seriously injured. It is the second time this theatre has
been destroyed by fire and several killed.

Age 62 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 281
Fifth month n. Visited the hospital and saw the re
maining convalescent victims of the fire. Seven had
died and ten had returned to their homes.
Fifth month 16. Attended the funeral of one of the
fire victims, previous to which I had some religious
service with the widow and several others who were
with her. I have attended two or three funerals and
visited several families of these afflicted ones. The one
buried to-day was one of the firemen who was assisting
in saving life and putting out the fire.
Fifth month 17. Was allowed an opportunity to ad
dress the General Conference of the colored people, now
in session in the "Bethel," Sixth street, below Pine, being
taken in by Bishop D. A. Payne.
I told them that I thought it would be well for them
to have in any of their conferences twenty or more
men appointed who could get together and receive
accounts of the sufferings of their people and take such
measures for relief as seemed best. Also encouraged
them to preserve the history of their people, and a place
and persons be appointed to keep their records.
Fifth month 29. Arrived at Boston after a pleasant
sea trip and took train to Newburyport, where I called
upon Joseph and Gertrude Cartland, who insisted upon
my remaining with them over night. After tea called
on their neighbor Brown, whose daughter Nellie married
a nephew of my Malinda's, George Patterson. The
remainder of the evening was spent very pleasantly with

282 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1892
the Cartlands, conversing on Society matters. After a
chapter was read in the Bible I was shown to J. G.
Whitier's chamber and slept in his bed. In one corner
of the room was the desk on which he wrote his poems.
In the centre of the room was a table and on it a Bible
and a few books. There was a rocking chair of the same
pattern as one that used to be in my father's sitting room.
There was a sofa on one side of the room, which con
stituted the furniture, beside the bed and bureau. There
were a few portraits and pictures hanging on the wall.
John G. Whittier was at his summer residence at Ames-
bury. He spends his winters here with his cousin, Ger
trude Cartland. All the poetic associations did not pre
vent me from a good night's sleep.
Fifth month 30. Spent a half hour or more in sitting
and reflecting in the poet's rocking chair before break
fast. After considerable interesting conversation with
Joseph and Gertrude Cartland, I bid them farewell and
took cars for Chelsea, where I visited Horace L. Hastings
and wife in their home and had a very satisfactory call.
H. L. H. showed me his library and private room, in
which was a great collection of books. Also visited H.
L. H.'s place of business in Boston before taking cars to
Albany, and thence to Highlands.
Fifth month 31. Crossed over the new bridge to Pough-
keepsie and attended meeting, their Yearly Meeting being
in session. It was announced that Joseph S. Elkinton
was present, and I was asked to rise, which I did, and

Age 62 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 283
stated that I was not traveling with a minute, but, passing
through the city, I took the liberty to come in among
them. I was told to make myself at home. A report was
read from the committee of the Union Springs Boarding
School. The clerk spoke of the repairs that had been
made and was still needed. It resulted in a subscription
being taken in the meeting. After meeting I went to the
clerk and told him the business I had on my mind was
to ask him if he would accept a set of bound volumes
of "The Friend," and if so, I would present them to the
Union Springs Library, as he had asked for books as
well as money. He said he would gladly accept them.
I was kindly invited by a number to dine with them.
Attended the afternoon session, and in the evening had
an interesting interview (at his request) with the assist
ant clerk.
Sixth month i. Spent the night at Charles Goudy's.
Spent the day calling on several Friends and took train
for home, arriving about 11 P. M. and found that our
friend John S. Stokes was buried this morning.
Eighth month ii. Mercury 99°. Feeling a concern
to speak to the superintendent of the Fourth and Eighth
streets line of passenger railway about having the relay
horses at the end of the road sheltered under a booth or
tent, I went to the Fourth and Dauphin streets depot
and had a very satisfactory interview with the president,
who seemed to be concerned for the welfare of the horses
and had relays of them at comparatively short distances.

284 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1892
Eighth month 13. A cablegram from Japan informs
us : "A fire on the vessel ; hull not much damaged ; will
sail on the fifteenth," which implies that the vessel on
which our daughter sailed has been on fire.
Eighth month 15. To-day we received the message,
" 'Empress of Japan' put in at Hakodate ; some damage
to cargo ; sails again on Monday, so no cause for alarm."
I suppose we shall have letters in a few days that will
explain the whole matter.
Eighth month 26. Had a telegram announcing the
safe arrival of our daughter at Vancouver.
Ninth month 18. First-day. My son Joseph bore a
clear testimony in our morning meeting to the more sure
word of Prophecy, and in the afternoon meeting he in
terceded that, though very great trials might be per
mitted, that our spiritual lives might be preserved.
Tenth month 27. Son Joseph returned the minute
granted him last month with a report of his movements,
which was accepted and well received. His father has
a feeling of quietness overspreading his mind, and secret
desires for the preservation of his son. It is indeed a
favor when a feeling of comfort settles on the retrospect
of individual services or of acts of meetings.
Eleventh month 24. In the second meeting of our
Monthly Meeting I submitted to the judgment of the
meeting a concern to join Joseph Walton in a religious
visit to some parts of New York State, with a view of
strengthening the hands of those who were attached to

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 285
the principles of Friends, and I would ask liberty to
appoint some meetings for worship, one of which would
likely be at "Sing Sing." A minute was granted me.
First month 4, 1893. Word reached us early this
morning that our little grandchild Rebecca passed away
about 11.30 last evening. She was a precious child, and
the matter comes very close to us. Her powers of per
ception were beyond her years.
First month 6. The funeral company met at Ephraim
Smith's, 1110 Pine street. The gathering was a solemn
one. Samuel Emlen first broke the silence, speaking of
the benefits of affliction to the survivors.
John H. Dillingham spoke as if the little departed one
had glorified its Creator in the little while it was on earth.
Elizabeth R. Evans spoke from the text, "And their
angels do behold the face of my Father who is in
Heaven." Son Joseph uttered a short petition which
seemed to breathe the spirit of resignation. Benjamin
Vail uttered a feeling supplication.
First month 16. While waiting at the railroad station
engaged in conversation with a railroad magnate, who
had a great deal to tell about railroads and about his
explorations in Mexico. But he seemed to have a pretty
poor opinion of preachers in general; that they were a
deceitful set and full of intrigue, although he encouraged
his children to go to some church, as he called it. I told
him he must not judge the religious world by the incon
sistency or hypocrisy of some of its professors any more

286 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
than to judge a community by the character of those who
were in the state prison. He was very interesting, how
ever, in conversation, and seemed to possess general
information about the Society of Friends in New York.
First month 26. I returned my minute to our Monthly
meeting, together with a report that was satisfactory to
the meeting, stating that Joseph Walton accompanied me.
Third month 24. Made a satisfactory call on Letitia
Justice, who had lived in my father's family before my
memory. Her faculties seemed to be clear and bright.
She spoke in a feeling manner of the lasting impressions
made on her mind by my father's communications in
connection with his reading of the Scriptures at the
breakfast table. It was not unusual for father to offer a
little in this line after his reading at the breakfast table,
which practice he kept up during his lifetime; and the
last thing he read was the Psalm containing the verse,
"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my
heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and
my redeemer."
At a Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadelphia held Fifth
month 25, 1893, Joseph S. Elkinton opened in this meeting a con
cern which for sometime past and with increasing weight has im
pressed his mind to visit in Gospel love some portions of the
New England States, to attend some meetings of those under
our name and to appoint some public meetings, as ability may be
afforded and best wisdom may direct. On deliberately weighing
this important and serious undertaking, unity was felt with liber
ating him for the service; a desire being also felt that he may
attend closely to the line of duty which may in the leadings of
the Head of the Church be pointed out, and that his preserving

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 287
power may be experienced and yielded to until the required
service be accomplished. Joseph S. Elkinton is a minister in
unity with us. From the Minutes. Thomas Elkinton, Clerk.
Our beloved Friend, Joseph S. Elkinton, attended this meeting
with a certificate from the Monthly Meeting of Friends of Phila
delphia held Fifth month, 1893, liberating him to visit in Gospel
love some portions of the New England States, to attend some of
the meetings under our name and appoint some public meetings
as ability may be afforded; and as best wisdom may direct, he
being a minister in unity with them.
His company and Gospel labors have been very encouraging
and strengthening to us, and the clerk is directed to furnish him
with a copy of this minute.
Signed by direction and on behalf of the New England Yearly
Meeting held at Westerly, R. I., by adjournments from the 12th
of Sixth month to the 13th of the same, inclusive, 1893.
John W. Foster,
Mary A. Gardener, Clerks.
We have at this time the company of our esteemed Friend,
Joseph S. Elkinton, from Philadelphia — a minister with whom we
have unity, who produced a certificate from the Monthly Meeting
of Friends held at Philadelphia Fifth month 25, 1893, liberating
him to visit in Gospel love some portions of the New England
States, to attend some of the meetings of those under our name,
and to appoint some public meetings as ability may be afforded
and best wisdom may direct.
His company and labor of love amongst us have been com
forting and encouraging.
From the minutes of Sandwich Quarterly Meeting of Friends,
held at North Dartmouth on the 6th of Seventh month, 1893.
Job S. Gidley.
Seventh month 12. In my travels yesterday I saw
one place that reminded me of the story of the man who
had built a great mansion and afterwards lost his mind

288 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
and had to have an attendant. He liked to walk out to
a certain hill and look down on his buildings, and one
day he said to his caretaker, "What fool did build that
thing?" Seventh month 27. At Arch Street Monthly Meeting
I gave up my minute granted me in the Fifth month
with the three returning minutes from the Yearly Meet
ing of Ministers and Elders, and the Yearly Meeting held
at Westerly, and the Quarterly Meeting at North Dart
mouth. These were read, and I stated that I had
attended the Yearly Meeting at Westerly, and after that
had meetings pretty much along the line of the railroad
between Westerly and Portland, some appointed and
some of the usual meetings, and was also along the line
of railroad at Cape Cod, and was on the Island of Nan
tucket and at Newport. In the appointed meetings there
was an open door. Joseph Walton was with me part of
the time, and after he left a Friend from North Dart
mouth took his place as companion, with the approbation
of the elders there. In the course of the visit we were
brought into connection with leading people under our
name, some of whom were grounded in the Truth. But
as we moved over the land we were sensible of great
changes; large meeting-houses with so few to make use
of them and the meetings in many places discontinued. I
felt that not only there, but nearer home, if the rising
generation wanted to share the blessings of belonging to
a religious society and continue to be partakers of the

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 289
benefits that had been purchased for us through the
sufferings of our early Friends, they must be willing to
give their strength to the work of their day in the inter
ests of the Society and in keeping with the cross of
Christ. The exercises I had experienced were various and in
some respects different from anything I had known
before, but there was cause to commemorate the goodness
of our Heavenly Father for the support that had been
afforded. Joseph Walton added that he had considered
it a privilege to take part in the service.
Eighth month 12. A message was received to-day
from Malvern that mother Patterson was very poorly
and desired to see me. I accordingly went out and found
that she had been taken increasingly ill and is now in
a critical condition, but I had comfort in sitting by her
side and her conversation was quite coherent, bespeaking
a sense that her time on earth was drawing near a close.
Eighth month 14. Going into mother's chamber this
morning, I remarked to her that I felt it was not so
much matter what our condition was, so that we had
grace to help in time of need, and now, sitting by her
side, I never felt that passage with more force and
sweetness, "My grace is sufficient for thee, my strength
is made perfect in weakness." And whilst she and I
might have preached that text as applicable in a spiritual
sense, in the fulness of Scripture language it did apply
that his grace was sufficient, even in times of physical

290 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
weakness. She broke forth in a beautiful strain, "The
Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want," and went very
much through the Psalm, enlarging particularly on the
passage, "Goodness and mercy have followed me all the
days of my life," saying she had been greatly favored
with the society of spiritually-minded Friends and re
counted her mercies in other particulars.
It did seem to me as sweet an evening song as I ever
heard. To be in such a state and condition as mother
seemed to be in, I felt was worth all the tribulation that
was to be passed through in this life and it brings up the
language, "Let me die the death of the righteous and
let my last end be like his."
On telling mother I was about to go with brother
J. G. H. to the meeting of Ministers and Elders at
Media, she responded, "My heart is with those who are
endeavoring to fill their measure of service and of suf
fering, and who are pouring out their souls before the
Lord, craving that He would enable them to do their
day's work."
At the meeting of Ministers and Elders, Clarkson
Sheppard first spoke, saying he had never been more
impressed with the language, "The Lord is my Shepherd,
I shall not want," and went on speaking very sweetly,
finishing with the same words that I had heard mother
Patterson repeat.*

*I afterward heard that Phoebe Roberts, who was ill, repeated
the same Psalm that same morning.

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 291
Eighth month 14. My Malinda returned from Budd's
Lake and came on to Malvern to be with her mother.
Eighth month 21. Mother's condition has been a sink
ing one, and supposed she was almost past recognizing
us ; but as an evidence that she had a hold on that which
was not to be taken from her, she broke forth in some
very heavenly expressions.
Eighth month 22. Our dear mother finished her course
to-day. My wife told me of a number of sweet expres
sions mother uttered from time to time, even in her low
estate. Eighth month 26. There was quite a gathering of the
family before the funeral, in which there was a feeling
of sweet solemnity. It was a very warm day, and few
besides the relatives proceeded to the interment at
Goshen. Eleventh month 23. This morning was a turning point
with me in reference to opening a concern that had long
been on my mind to move among the inhabitants of this
city in gospel love and appoint public meetings. I had
felt the present time to be a time of affliction, affecting
many in different conditions of life, and if the meeting
were clear in the matter I felt it might be my place at
this time to stand resigned to the service. After an ex
pression of freedom on the part of both Men's and
Women's Meetings a minute was prepared expressing
their unity and encouragement. This is a weighty under-

292 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
taking, and I feel that it is one that needs to be entered
into carefully.
Eleventh month 30. Brother J. G. H. was liberated by
his Monthly Meeting to accompany me in the service of
holding meetings in this city.
Twelfth month 17. The appointed meeting at the
Mariners' Bethel at 3 P. M. was very largely attended —
it was thought eight hundred were present — the neigh
borhood where I spent the earlier part of my life being
well represented. Notwithstanding the great change in
character of inhabitants, yet a body of men remain, and
I trust I left them the impression that I saluted them in
the love of the Gospel, with earnest desires, that yielding
to the visitations of the Most High, they might be enabled
to serve their generation according to his will and their
own peace. My heart did yearn for the preservation of
this part of the city.
Twelfth month 19. The appointed meeting at the
Eastburn Mariners' Bethel was a satisfactory opportunity
and also well attended by the seamen, a marked quiet
prevailed.

CHAPTER XL
Relief Work on Sea Islands.*
Twelfth month 22. Left home for Beaufort, South
Carolina, meeting William Evans at the Pennsylvania
depot. It seemed we had struck the 12.10 train for
Florida, and stating we wanted to get on the Charleston
car, were told to take the two front cars on the train,
but when comfortably seated therein were asked for our
sleeping berth tickets.
Ah ! I had thought it time enough to take that matter
up when we got to Washington, not making allowance
for the Florida-seekers to spend the holidays, and it did
seem as if there were a good many people left yet deter
mined to spend money while they had it, and no doubt
some of them were conscientious about it. We were
soon told that we would have to take our chances about
a sleeping berth, for, on looking over the pile of his
papers, the sleeping-berth agent told us he could give us

*In the autumn of 1893 the sympathy of many was enlisted on
behalf of the sufferings of the negroes on the Sea Islands of
South Carolina. Joseph S. Elkinton felt constrained to suspend
his work under a minute of his Monthly Meeting and go to the
scene of suffering. The following passage, extracted from a
newspaper account preserved by J. S. E. will help to explain some
things in the succeeding pages :
The climate is perfect, very little labor produces good results.
The Sea Islanders were a happy, contented, and comfortably
fixed set of people. So it was at the going down of the sun on
293

294 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
a chair apiece to Washington for seventy-five cents each,
or for seven dollars we could have an upper berth and a
sofa in the drawing room, in which some women had a
lower berth, and that was all that could be done in that
line. William was decidedly of the opinion that a sleep
ing berth for the night would best suit his comfort, but
on contemplating the situation we quietly resolved to
give the porter twenty-five cents to help us back with our
baggage into one of the regular passenger cars, so we
the 27th day of August. When the sun rose next morning, hun
dreds of these cabins had been swept from the earth, with all
they contained. Over thirty thousand of those people were home
less, foodless, without clothes and with no resources. Over eight
hundred were dead (the figures from actual census). A hurri
cane, on its way from the Gulf of Mexico to the north, had
swerved somewhat from the usual course of these storms; its
centre, instead of following the gulf stream, had come in over the
land and the great uprising of the surface of the sea, which
always occurs at the calm centre of these storms, inundated our
islands to depths varying from one to ten feet according to the
height of the land. The average height of the tidal wave above
high water being about seven feet, the surface of each island was
a sea, and was driven by the tremendous force of the wind over
a hundred miles per hour, as recorded at Charleston, north of us,
and at Savannah south, into death-dealing waves. The houses,
all built on posts two or four feet above ground, came down like
card houses. Some collapsed and crushed their inmates on the
spot; others went drifting off with men, women and children
clinging to them, until, falling to pieces, they dropped their living
freight into eternity. Some people escaped by seeking shelter
amidst the branches of the giant pines and oaks; a portion were
so saved but others had found only death traps, for, yielding to
the force of the wind, many were thrashed to death by the whip
ping of the branches, or knocked off into the raging sea below.

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 295
migrated and got settled. After the train reached Wil
mington we got a seat together.
At Richmond the people thinned out, and William and
I each got a seat and arranged ourselves the best we
could, and after twisting ourselves one way or another,
Nature asserted its own right and we forgot all about
the glorious sunset, and that it really was a very fine
moonlight night, and by the dawn of the 23d inst., which
is the date of this writing on the cars, we really felt
refreshed. At Charleston we each got a cup of coffee, and the
lunch box that aunt Mary had fixed up has served me
excellently. At one stopping point five little pickaninnies, as W. E.
called them, got up on the platform of the car and
seemed all ready to start up a little dance and ask for
nickels. I handed W. E. three of the little books called
"The Sermon on the Mount" and two of the "Proverbs
of Solomon," and told him to ask them if they could
read. William smiled, but started off to deliver them.
He reports that one of the boys said he could read, but
seeming more anxious for money than literature, got a
nickel out of him.
Changing cars at Charleston, we got into one pretty
well packed with not exactly all sorts of people, but a
representation of the South who, as we indulged in our
cup of coffee, got the advantage and filled the seats
before our arrival. One valise was piled on the other

296 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
inside of the door of entrance, which gave me a per
spective view, which, if it had been photographed, would
probably have offered some amusement to 325 and 322
Union street. Pretty close to me were three hunters with
three pointer dogs of considerable size, which they had
some difficulty in keeping in a crouched position under
their limbs, as they could not get them under the seats.
The men seemed to be of some standing, one of them
being called Colonel, which I suppose gave him more of
a pass with his company and dogs than he could reason
ably expect in the north on a passenger car. I got
some points out of them in conversation, but when their
dogs wanted more ease and freedom they were beaten
so over the head, neck and shoulders with the whips
which they had in their pockets that it destroyed all the
satisfaction of talking with them. The southern blood
of aristocracy was painfully apparent, and I was glad to
get the first seat vacated at a stopping point.
It was not long after leaving Charleston before we saw
the effects of the storm, broken down trees showing that
the prevailing wind had been from the southeast,
although the conductor said the direction of the storm
changed every few minutes; he was in it with eleven
cars in charge; the boxes were overturned, but the
coaches were not injured.
We are traveling due west, and have a roundabout way
on account of the indentations of the coast. We have
just stopped at Green Pond, and such an emptying out

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 297
of people, baggage and stuff; one colored woman with a
tub and all descriptions of packages, says W. E.
The stubble of last summer's rice fields, as also to a
less degree of either corn or sugar cane, I cannot tell
which is right, have been nipped bare by the cows.
The difference of latitude is now shown by the pres
ence of flies in the cars which we could not see in the
north at this time of the year, and the shaking of this
car reminds us we are on a southern railroad. A very
fine rice field with its little canal for drainage has come
into view, and the moss on the trees looks nice.
A number of huts have chimneys outside. I was told
that the fashion in the south is to build the chimney first,
and if it draws well, then build the house afterwards.
We see a number of fires outside of the houses where
it looks as if they might be cooking, but I have not seen
any chimneys to the houses or near them, perhaps where
chimneys have failed to draw even then they have built.
The water in the swampy ground is generally free from
discoloration about the roots of the trees. It is pictur
esque to see the slim teams of poor horses and flimsy
wagons, and a woman on a poor horse working through
a ford. A cow is to be seen ready to be harnessed to a
little cart, but apparently the most effective team visible
in the past half hour is an ox that is harnessed to a cart.
Stopping at Yemassee station and letting the Savannah
people go on their way, we again change and take the
Central Georgia Railroad. Whilst waiting we observe

298 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
a considerable number of people, probably nine-tenths
of them colored, and in the midst of them are some men
with turkeys and chickens, which, like the stock in these
parts, were not very large, but brought here to be disposed
of. One man has one in his coat pocket with its feet
sticking out, it probably having been smothered or abused
in some other way so it has not survived. Viewing the
mass of persons around us, one person states he is re
minded of what he heard a long time ago: "Some was
black, and some was blacker, and some the color of chaw-
tobacker" (tobacco). This expressive figure will not
stand the test of refinement, yet my, oh ! what a scene
amidst all the goods of all sorts tumbled about, the cars
shifting on three tracks, the wagons of divers sort wait
ing for a crossing, some that had evidently been engaged
hauling wood, which is used on the cars for fuel. Our
little buggy with no top had three people stuffed in, and
baggage behind the little buggy with the little horse.
One patriarchal colored man with a white beard was
mounted on a pretty fine-looking horse, about the best
to be seen, probably belonging to some landowner; but
the motley group of little mules, little wagons of all
sorts looked as though time was not nearly so valuable
as some of us from the north think it ought to be valued.
We have gotten some information from a colored
man, who says he wants to go to Beaufort, but alleges
he will have to walk for want of money to pay his fare.
His clothes and shoes are in keeping with what we have

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 299
been told of the times, but as he really did not seem to
know what he could do when he got there, he was paid
twenty-five cents for helping us with our baggage and
what information he gave us and left to do the best
he could.
Started on our way; supposed to be forty minutes
behind time from Yemassee, passing by great rice fields
on the one side and magnificent moss-covered trees on the
other, and are having a sight not only of more habita
tions that appear as if they were the abode of the
poverty-stricken, but have a sight of the wreck of what
they call a washboat that had been used for washing out
the earth from phosphate rock. One man sitting by me
in the cars says the water at the time of the storm was
nine and one-half feet in the yard of his house at Port
Royal. On reaching a bridge over the swamps and chan
nel, we have had to go very slow for safety's sake.
We arrived at Beaufort, and took carriage to Rachel
C. Mather's establishment ; were received with a welcome
and given a room for our accommodation. Before I
could get properly washed and shaved we heard a knock
at the door and was told if we were rested we might
go down and hear the case of a man who was in a suffer
ing condition, having nine children. His relation of their
condition was an affecting one. He was given some meat
and half a peck of grits, also a few other things that he
could carry. His story was that they were in a state of
abject poverty, and he had come several miles to report.

300 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
The next one that we heard was one who said that all
that he had earned since the storm he had to pay for
doctor's bills, his wife being sick from the exposure of
the storm, and his son had a broken leg. David Delany
lost a house and all that was in it, two head of cows,
fifty head of chickens, hogs, etc., speaks as if they were
nearly destitute of all; they, however, got a shanty put
up. Jack Robinson's story was like the others — a very
affecting one. One Mary Ann Robinson gave us to
understand she was the mother of fourteen children and
wanted clothing. Her house was carried away by the
storm. There were probably fifteen men on the porch, and as
many women on another porch, who were waiting to be
helped; and we were told there had been more than one
hundred there that day before we came, and that was no
unusual number. Five barrels of clothing, besides pro
visions, had been distributed that day.
The institution is under the care of the Women's Bap
tist Home Missionary Society of Boston, with Rachel C.
Mather as the matron. It is a home for about twenty
little girls who were taken up as destitute and cared for.
Many of them are placed out in the north, and many
have married and settled about the Islands and are doing
well. There is a day school carried on, with an average
attendance of about one hundred and twenty scholars and
on the roll two hundred and fifteen. There are three
teachers and two assistants.

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 301
After we had dinner we went back to the porches and
listened to the statements of the poor folks, after which
I invited L. Gould (one of the teachers) to go with
W. E. and myself to the depot, etc., and to see Clara
Barton. On the way out we met George Caye, the town
treasurer, whose wife was a Pennsylvania woman. We
entered pretty freely into conversation with them and told
them we had agreed to go to the meeting at Button Hill
next morning, and George said he was willing to supple
ment Alfred Ramsey, who had agreed to come for us
and take us to Button Hill.
At the office of the Red Cross we were told that Clara
Barton was very poorly with bronchitis and could not
talk. Her representative, George Pullman, gave us con
siderable information concerning the doings of the Red
Cross Association, whose district seemed to extend pretty
much over the whole country from Charleston to Savan
nah or Georgetown, in which range 35,000 persons are
said to be in want. The donations having been particu
larly given for the Sea Islands, they have been cramped
or restricted in their operations, and speak of the prospect
being a pretty desperate one for the coming three months,
as the mischief done by the storm was so extended. They
have bought grits by the carload, and have doled it out
at the rate of a peck a week for a family of nine persons
with one pound of pork, which was insufficient for sup
port, but assisted, leaving the deficiency to be made up by
the exertions of those who could fish or get oysters. It

302 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
was not every one who could have boats to fish or get
oysters, there being a great scarcity of boats, many having
been lost in the storm and great hindrance to business on
that account. In some instances it seemed as if the boats
and houses just exchanged places, the former being de
posited on the fields, and the house that did not get broken
up first, started out to sea.
The Red Cross has employed a good many men in
clearing out debris, as also draining fields, giving rations
to the workmen. I think I was told that 75,000 feet of
lumber had been given to them to put up their houses,
and they had bought timber at four dollars a thousand
by the carload. They employed women to mend gar
ments before they were sent out, as also make up
comfortables. These were also given rations.
Sewing circles had been organized in different neigh
borhoods, as also committees ; the deacons of the religious
societies, often being members thereof, were told to re
port the needs of the neighborhood, so that a systematic
scheme seems to have been organized, and care taken to
investigate. Their capacity, however, is limited ; and yet
with all the difficulties and impositions that may have
been practiced, no question but that a great amount of
relief has been afforded, and whilst much complaint has
been made that many applicants have been sent empty
away, it is in part to be accounted for by a rule having
been passed that no supplies will be furnished from the
office, but must go through the properly accredited parties

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 303
appointed to take it to their homes. This involves con
siderable delay where persons are to be visited at a
distance. At first parties came to demand supplies as a right,
saying that the government had made appropriations and
the goods were theirs (the applicants'). This brought out
the response: "Not so; the government had not granted
anything, and the goods were given to the Red Cross to
be dispersed at its discretion." After this explanation
the applicants had become more modest.
Undergarments for cold weather were particularly
called for, and as to comfortables, the person I was
talking with said ten thousand of them might be judi
ciously appropriated, for it must be remembered that the
salt water in the time of the flood had made very many
unfit for use. On the whole, I came to the conclusion
that there was a great deal to be said for the organized
charity work, and yet individual attention and sympathy
through conscientious persons who knew the actual con
ditions of the sufferers and had previous acquaintance
with parties before their distress would be likely to prove
the most effectual helpers, but the great point would be
to know where these were located.
Considerable information was given me concerning the
miners for phosphate rock. Several companies engaged
in this enterprise had lost one hundred thousand dollars ;
their dredging machines had been broken up, and they
had memorialized Legislature for a release for five years

304 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
on the royalty of one dollar a ton on the rock mines.
The answer had been given that the state had given a
rebate on the prospective royalty for seventy-five thou
sand dollars, which, if granted by the phosphate com
panies, the royalty would be waived for one year. A
second proposition seemed to have gone up, and the
Legislature, being supposed to be near its close, it was
uncertain how it would result.
I asked the question as to what the view of the Red
Cross was with regard to appealing to Congress. The
answer was that they did not want free rations to be
issued, for that would pauperize and demoralize the
people. The Red Cross had asked for fifty thousand
dollars in their hands, to be distributed in a way desig
nated by them, and a strict account to be given.
I could not divest my mind of the thought that they
were not altogether influenced by the best of motives in
not leaving the matter of dispensing to the Government
Commissioners to be appointed in the matter, and I also
felt that the declining by Congress to grant the appro
priation might have been in part owing to a suspicion of
being dictated to, and more perhaps because the silver
bill and the tariff bill so wholly engrossed their attention
that the members were little inclined to take up outside
matters. There may be some foundation in what is
reported hereaway that Southern Democrats thought, as
did their representatives in Congress, that there were too
many "niggers" and it would be well to let them die.

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 305
But Congress may be in a better state to take up the
subject now than when in special session.
Called at the office of a grocer of the name of Water-
house, whose store certainly looked as if there was
considerable stock in it. He is reported to have lost
some twelve or fifteen thousand dollars by the storm.
He is also spoken of as being the proprietor of several
tracts of land and being a pretty reasonable man to deal
with. This land question of individuals holding large tracts,
with an increasing population, is likely to be a grave
problem. It is said that sales can be effected, but it not
unfrequently happens to the colored people who purchase
and get the payments half paid and, unable to raise the
balance, that the land reverts to the former owner to the
distress of a family, especially when the head of it has
been removed by death.
Returned to R. C. Mather's to a late tea, after which
we had a very pleasant time in her parlor, when she gave
us a history of her early life ; how she became interested
in the cause of working for the freedmen, after having
been a school teacher in Boston and commanding the
highest salary then paid to a woman teacher. She thought
as the men did so much for their country, the women
ought to do their part. After the war her son had suc
ceeded in purchasing for her at low prices buildings at
Hilton Head that had been used for the quartermaster's

306 JOSEPH S» ELKINTON 1893
house, and magazine and barracks. They have been
floated to this place and put upon this bluff.
Looking towards the time when she must give up work,
she had deeded the principal part of the building to the
Women's Home Baptist Association in Boston, reserving
the privilege of the home for herself during life. She
gave us quite a relation of how the colored people flocked
in during the war whilst the place was in the possession
of the northern army. The many remaining accounts for
the density of the colored population on this island.
The land having been confiscated in the time of the
war and the colored people so largely left in possession,
it would seem as if they might have prospered, but they
have their backsets. They were so isolated from the
main land and so little they could do, other than farm
comparatively poor soil or work in phosphate mines, when
they are in operation, it is not much wonder if a good
many should be unemployed. If a goodly number of
them could but safely migrate to the main land and be
properly located, it might be to their interest, but here
they can, in great measure, have home rule, for colored
people seem to be filling most of the offices, and the
proportion of whites is very small; still there is enough
of them to hold a good deal of land, which they have got
hold of in some way, and it would be something of a
problem to get the colored people properly started in
business, etc.
A very beautiful sunset and temperature pleasant.

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 307
First day morning. Before starting out, R. C. M. gave
an account of the last illness of her son Joseph, who died
at the age of twenty-eight years after a short illness, yet
not without leaving his mother a comfortable hope of his
having gone to the better inheritance.
Went to Beaufort with letters of introduction to three
of the pastors of colored congregations, and to. General
Small, who united with a proposition to have a meeting
with the people in one of the meeting houses for colored
people at eleven o'clock on the morrow.
General Small is one of the most remarkable colored
men of the south, is the collector of the port, and in
consequence of his having conducted a government vessel
out of the port in time of rebellion and surrendered it
to the United States fleet, he has received a pension and
is now enjoying the estate or residence of his former
master. He and his mother were born on that property.
Two of the ministers called on seemed to have a lively
remembrance of the visit of David Heston and Joseph
Walton, who had meetings hereaway. One of them
graduated at Lincoln University. His name is Bamfield.
One of the others is Blythewood and the other Arthur
Waddell. The latter is seventy- four years of age; has,
if I understand it rightly, been pastor over the congre
gation in whose house the meeting was appointed, for
thirty years. He said the experience of the great storm
had proved too much for his nerves, and he felt his
powers giving away.

308 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
Blythewood told me of some very affecting incidents
of the storm and flood, men witnessing the loss of mem
bers of their families, and very great sufferings of those
who were appealing to him in great distress.
After getting the arrangements properly made for the
meeting on the morrow, we proceeded with Alfred Ram
sey to Button Hill over a pretty sandy road. The settle
ment there appears to have been on a tract of some eight
hundred acres, which a man by the name of Appleton, of
New York, owns and is selling out in ten-acre lots to the
colored people, Alfred Ramsey being the agent. Water
in some places in that neighborhood had been nine feet
deep, and great was the destruction of crops and build
ings. The meeting house had been turned over and partially
demolished, but they had set it up again with props. No
windows in as yet, and but part of the roof on. The
boards of the floor were loose, and the benches were
primitive looking, but there we held our meeting, or at
least we met there, the control of it being given to us
until I said it was in their hands, having had an open
door, and as not a few of them had been in deep water,
it was a meeting of unusual depth of feeling, and I
believe it was the general thought that we had been
together for good. William Evans and myself gave
them to understand that we were both impressed with
the view that it was a season of Divine favor.
After we were though, liberty was given them to open

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 309
their minds to us, and they did in a feeling manner,
speaking of the gratitude they felt because of our visiting
them, and alluded to their great trial in being visited by
the flood, attended with great loss of life and property;
and yet we were impressed with the spirit of patience
and apparent quietude with which they seemed to settle
into an acceptance of the situation without murmuring.
Several who attempted to tell of the awfulness of what
they had gone through, would use the language, "Oh ! I
can't tell you how it was, you couldn't understand it,"
and I could say, "I believe you, I believe you that it was
awful." One intelligent man seemed to have been over
taxed and had paralysis, and not a few others showed
by their countenances that care and anxiety had fur
rowed and wrinkled them, but it was something to us
that we had met them.
George Caye and his wife were at the meeting, and a
pretty black half shepherd dog followed and took its
position very near the centre of the meeting house, but
was silent. G. Caye had something to offer in the latter
part of the meeting, asking the people to report cases of
imposition to Clara Barton or some other person.
His wife told me she was hard of hearing, but under
stood what I offered in the meeting, and it was acceptable.
Alfred Ramsey gave us dinner together with some
visitors, and he brought me back to R. C. M.'s to tea.

310 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
A man by the name of French volunteered to take
William Evans in his buggy.
On the way back we stopped at the dirt camp of Jupiter
Dye, an aged colored man who had a hut, we might call
it, made of stuff about twice the thickness of ordinary
fence rails and perhaps a little longer, reared up against
a ridge pole in the centre and sods packed up over the
rails, with dirt thrown over. Under that sort of a shelter
were two or three beds on the bare floor, where about
five grown people and five children were to be housed.
There was a little fire in front of the hut, around which
the aged couple, a son and son-in-law, hovered and
warmed themselves. The children seemed to be away
for the time being. They were very poorly and barefoot.
The furniture that was visible consisted of two old
trunks, an old chest and a biscuit box.
The old black grandmother gave, in her own way, a
graphic relation of her story and experience of how they
were nearly drowned, house and all taken away; and if
that was not a case of destitution, I think we will need
a new dictionary to tell us what we are to understand
by it.
In the evening we met with a company about half a
mile from R. C. M.'s who did not seem to have been in
quite as much distress as some others amongst them, and
whilst I did not think it as favored a season as the morn-

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 311
ing or noon meeting, yet what was offered to them was
listened to with marked attention, and I trust the season
was to profit.
Second-day morning. The meeting to-day was a very
satisfactory one. After I had stated the object of our
coming, followed by William Evans, the door was open
for any of them to tell us what they had to say. We
heard their account of the impending trials of the next
three months. Some of them told of their experience as
to what they had witnessed, and their crying need seemed
to be for more food and some warm clothing.
General Small told us of the extraordinary exertion
that was used immediately after the storm, and of the
response from northern cities by which a boatload of
provisions were sent within a week to the neighboring
islands, and he spoke in terms of praise at what the Red
Cross had done.
Ellen Murray and her sister called on us, having heard
of our arrival, and went with us to General Small's, and
it was arranged for us to meet with those who would
meet with us at Frogmore next Fourth-day, General
Small agreeing to go with us in a government boat. On
arrival at the residence of Ellen Murray and her sister
we were given a hearty welcome, and after dinner spent
a very pleasant evening.
Twelfth month 28. After breakfast heard two appli-

312 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
cations for help. One of them was a woman who lived
alone, and when the water came to her home she said
the waves beat her house and she tried to nail up her
door, but it would not hold. She then tried to hold her
back against it, but that she found would not hold, and
she had to leave the house and had scarcely gotten from it
before the house fell. She said the waves beat her against
the house and then the rain licked her. She was in the
water a long time and when she got to a little fire she
tried to warm herself with her clothes on. From accounts
some had their clothes on for two or three days. The old
man had a touching tale as well. About forty called at
the house for help during the day.
About ten o'clock we started out to prospect and survey
the country. As in other places, we saw where it had
been deluged, many bodies having been taken from under
the debris.
The prayer of the poor old man comes before me, who
prayed that after he "had chawed up all the hard bones
and swallowed all the bitter pills, that he might go down
to his watery grave in peace with a hope of Heaven
beyond." In our drive we saw a number of small houses that
had been erected on a small scale since the storm. One
measured about twelve feet long and eight feet wide,
another measured about nine feet square, the ceiling not

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 313
six feet high. This was to accommodate three grown
people and three children.
We passed on our way the wreck of a mansion, once
occupied by Dr. Jenkins, a prominent man amongst the
secessionists, who had a plantation of considerable size.
The mansion in its day was considered about the greatest
establishment on the islands, and a rendezvous of gaiety
and reveling. Now the house is a picture of desolation,
reminding one of some of the passages in Scripture that
told what would become of some of those places where
God was not feared.
We were told that at the time of the battle of Hilton
Head the planters round about assembled on the porches
of the Jenkins mansion, watching with a spyglass, but
when the Confederate flag at Hilton Head was lowered
and the United States flag ran up, they concluded it was
time for them to evacuate the islands and make their
escape to the main land.
In one of the rooms of the mansion is quartered an old
negro named Samson, said to be over one hundred years
old, and his wife does not look much younger. Samson
was an old butler, very polite. We had a nice talk with
them. Both as yet have their faculties.
Returned by a different route and made our way to
the neighborhood of the hall where we had our meeting.
Called on Dr. Peters in his office, which had been tem
porarily fixed up to accommodate his apothecary shop,

314 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
Dr. Peters being among those of whom the colored people
say, "The waves they wash him, the waves they wash
him." This rather implies that his house was washed
away. When the waves or wind beat against a man or
house, and he or the house stood, they say "licked" him
or it.
The doctor said there was a good deal of grippe in
the country round about, although not in as a bad a form
as two or three years ago, but oh ! if it is grippe at all in
the tents or dirt cabins without fire, it will be grippe
indeed with misery.
The government sent out a sanitary department after
the storm to take measures to avoid a pestilence, and
assistance was rendered to have interment of dead bodies
and carcasses, but some provision for the sick and infirm
should be made. The court houses might be enlarged or
improved. Dr. Peters is from Frankford, and somewhat ac
quainted with Frankford Friends. He has a brother
who is a practicing physician in Jenkintown, which
affords him eight thousand dollars a year, but there is
no alarming symptoms of Dr. Peters getting rich off his
practice on St. Helena Island yet a while! He told us
of his exertions in making his way to Beaufort, he being
about the first to get there, the roads, of course, being
impassable for a horse. There was much climbing and
wading, and there is still some difficulty in getting round
amongst those he visits because of the fallen timber.

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 315
We passed on to the residence of one of the name of
McDonald, whose wife is a sister of Dr. Peters. I rather
suppose she got out of bed to see us, as she had been laid
by with the grippe, as well as her husband and child.
McDonald is one of the firm of J. J. Dale & Co.
Passed on to the receiving depot of J. J. Dale & Co.,
about three-quarters of a mile distance. There we saw
G. J. Wilkins, another partner of the firm. He was very
courteous and showed us over the storehouse, packing
house, cotton gin and wharf property. We heard his
relation of his experience the night of the storm, and
his great sense of helplessness. One steamboat was run
up and lodged against the trees in front of his house,
and another is in a poor condition, high and dry up
against their warehouse.
G. J. Wilkins was very much concerned in regard to
the effect the night of the storm would have on his wife,
and he still feels the effect on his own system. It was
some time after that night before he could speak to any
one in a natural way. I suppose he felt, in addition to
fear of personal safety, that the firm was ruined.
There appeared about sixty women in the sorting room,
who can make from forty to sixty cents a day ; these walk
some three to six miles, and work about three days in
the week, when another set of women is taken in for
three days. Seventy-five women appeared to be the full
complement. The machinery for taking out the seed and preparing

316 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
the long staple cotton seemed elaborate to my unpracticed
eye, but it brought out the product in a very pretty
manner. I was told by G. J. Wilkins that they had put
out in a year 2,200 bales of cotton, 600 pounds in each
bale, but this year they only had about one-quarter of a
crop. There had passed over their wharf property mer
chandize to the amount of two hundred and fifteen thou
sand dollars in a year. This year they had not only lost
two or three of their stores with their contents, but the
crop of the colored people having been so nearly de
stroyed it was impossible for them to pay the money that
had been advanced to them, and it would be the old story
that they would have to be advanced again, or to that
import. Some amusing incidents occur with all their affliction,
one of which is recorded in the New York Tribune of
the 24th inst., when conversation is related between one
of the partners of this firm and a goodly colored woman,
who was, in company with a number, going up to the
store, but whose feelings were aroused at the insinuation
that she was a beggar, when she said she was just going
up to one of the other partners to draw a little money he
had of hers.
A rightly conducted savings bank might have been, and
still would be, a great blessing to them; but to say it
would be a bank of safety down there might be saying
more than could be verified.
We were taken by appointment to the store of J. J.

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 317
Dale. Partner Wilkins had prepared himself to see us
to Beaufort with his own conveyance as far as the bridge,
and then by transportation by boat to the other side,
where we had to put up with such conveyances as we
found. But if the good stock had been drowned, and all
the good vehicles broken up, it is to be supposed that
passengers will have to take what they can get or go
afoot. The stock on hand appears to be mustangs, with a few
cows and oxen ; but I judge the latter are being reduced
for their meat. One man I heard killed his cow to share
with his neighbors that he thought were likely to starve.
W. Evans, W. J. Wilkins and J. S. E. having a mustang
apiece, or at least I took them to be mustangs, and with
a colored driver, away we started across Ladies' Island
towards Beaufort; but if I could have had my choice I
would rather have taken my risk in one of the ox carts.
I soon found that mustangs could easily be underrated as
to strength, but with a driver about as reckless as they
were wild there was no telling when we would be landed
in the ditch. However, when the nags got a little tired,
they kept more in line ; and, with a fixing up of a quiler,
the harness held together for the trip, which was made
across the island quicker than was expected. Fourteen
of us got into a ferryboat and were rowed across the
channel, said to be one-half mile wide, by a colored
man with one leg. I did not know that a boat that size
could carry so many, and some of us had baggage. We

318 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
made the passage in safety, for which I felt thankful,
and made our way to the custom house.
William Evans left for home ; and Clara Barton, having
expressed a desire to see me, I went to the office of the
Red Cross. After a little conversation with one of the
doctors and his wife, who was also a doctor, I was shown
to the room of Clara Barton, which was fitted up to
answer the place of parlor, bedroom and office.
I found her to be a woman of quite medium size, rather
simply attired and apparently delicate frame; I would
judge over sixty years of age; a model of self-control
until those that might visit her had made their state
ments, or given their points, and, it might be, answered
her questions, and then ability to communicate was in no
wise lacking.
After I had given my relation of the errand that
William Evans and I had been on, and the body we
represented and what we had witnessed, together with
what we had heard in the collective and more private
gatherings, and my general sense of the situation, she
let George Pullman, her right-hand man, know that she
wished an hour's talk.
On hearing of the calamity, she told her informants
and interceders that she would not take the matter up,
and held off until different relief committees in the
different places had had some trial of it. Then Senator
Butler applied to her and offered to go with her; and,
accompanied by the Governor of South Carolina, the

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 319
trip was made, and the Governor issued a proclamation
to the effect that the matter of relief would be given
over to her financially and executively, and he wished
the different relief committees to turn the matter over
to her.
The Red Cross, then being considered in the position
of the dispensers of what might be placed in their hands,
sent out persons over the islands to prospect and report
the situation. The field being large, they had to govern
themselves accordingly.
There is no doubt that tact and ability was shown in
the management in some particulars, as when some one
would come to ask for assistance to put up a house, and
the applicant would seem to have some mind, and there
was reason to believe he would put up the house if. he
had a little lumber given him. In one case a man was
sent out to make inquiry and report how many there
were who would be benefited in his neighborhood by
lumber and helping one another to build, and it was
surprising what six thousand feet of lumber did in that
settlement. In another instance where twenty-five houses were
destroyed and forty-five wanted repairing, how they were
rebuilt and renewed by the men with ten thousand feet
of lumber, the men going into the woods and cutting out
the square timbers. The Red Cross gave these men
double rations for the time being, as they also allowed
double rations for those who were digging ditches in

320 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
front of their own and their neighbors' lands, for it
appeared the land was wet and soured and wanted drain
ing, and the wells being filled with salt water, had to be
baled or pumped out and cleaned.
It was advised that the potatoes and corn that were
water-soaked should be burned, lest the wells should be
polluted. The food that was distributed last month by the Red
Cross was estimated at about three thousand dollars, and
they think they will want six thousand next month, inde
pendent of what would be wanted for the sick. I under
stood they had sent a trained nurse into each district.
Whilst the amount placed in the hands of the Red
Cross has in the aggregate amounted to a large sum, yet
all that may have been given in money, goods and mer
chandize of all kinds has, in my view, been wholly in
adequate to the needs of the people who suffered by the
storm, nor did I think, from all I have learned, that the
Red Cross is at all equal to the magnitude of the emer
gency, and without help, additional to that which they are
likely to render, there will be an increased mortality from
want of food and clothing, and probably in places of fuel.
On leaving, C. B. said she was glad of the interview
and obliged for my patience ; and with some other kindly
expressions we parted, and I traveled back to the custom
house and had a farewell call with General Small.
Twelfth month 29. After bidding farewell to Rachel
C. Mather and her household I went with George Gage,

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 321
who was waiting for me, to his home and spent a very
pleasant evening with them, also D. Karcher and wife.
D. C. Wilson and wife came to spend the evening with
us. D. C. W. being a man amongst men, he gave me
some very interesting accounts relating to the history
of South Carolina, and more particularly of the result
of the continued application to the Legislature for a re
duction in the tax on phosphate from 105 to 50 or 55
cents, with the condition that there should be an increase
when the price went up in the market. A commission
had been sent down from Columbia, and the sight of the
wrecked boats and dredges was quite an object lesson,
without the sight of which it was hardly thought the
petition would have been granted. D. C. W. said the
dredgers would now feel in heart to start up their busi
ness again, which would give employment to a consid-
able number of men.
I felt well repaid for staying overnight at Beaufort.
Had about two minutes to spare at the depot before
taking the train, and, the rain continuing pretty much
through the day, the. progress over the swamps and chan
nels was exceedingly slow. The term crawling along
would be much more appropriate than to say the train
was a flyer, but Charleston was reached in safety.
Took quarters at the Charleston House and started out
to see the Mayor, as it was thought if I would go at once
without waiting for dinner I might see him in his office,
but I missed him, as he was gone for the day. I then

322 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
went to the office of the Chairman of the Relief Com
mittee, Joseph Barnwell, to hear what he could tell me
of the condition of the islands about Charleston and of
sufferers on the main land.
I found him a man apparently not much in sympathy
with the negro. He thought they were clothed enough;
and, as for giving them bacon, it was useless, and ac
counts were exaggerated. Still he admitted that when
they began to give out rations that about all of the
islanders came after them, and that the islands were
nearly depopulated. They had received about eight
thousand dollars, dispensed five thousand and gave three
thousand to the Red Cross at the recommendation of the
Governor. Their committee did not like it very much,
but seeing the Governor desired it, they felt like respect
ing his wishes.
He informed me that the islands roundabout Charles
ton were chiefly owned by the whites, whilst those round
about Beaufort were chiefly owned by colored people,
and that there were very few white people on them. I
might have told him that no one from St. Helena Island
had yet been sent to the poorhouse, and but one murder
committed for many years by one of the colored people
on St. Helena.
He also told me that he was chairman of the Relief
Committee at the time of the earthquake, and that six
hundred thousand dollars had come into their hands, and
it was the means of enabling the city to build up again.

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 323
After dinner I took a walk to see a little of the city.
Called at the jail, which seems like a nice structure, well
adapted to its purpose, with about fifty inmates. The
orphan asylum is a- very pretty building, with a nice piece
of ground in front of it — two hundred and fifty inmates.
The Roman Catholics are building a famous cathedral,
the bishop's residence nearby is quite imposing, with other
structures roundabout of which the Catholics have con
trol. •-•;¦
Saw the statue of John C. Calhoun, perched up at a
great height in front of the barracks. On the same
pedestal, some twenty or thirty feet below, was a figure
representing his wife in a sitting posture. It seemed
curious that a man's wife should be seated about half
as high as himself. I suppose that may have been a
Southern rating, but I do not think it is the rating of
the North at this age. Several other public buildings
were pointed out as I strolled along to the river front,
where I saw some of the wrecks strewn around, although
four months had allowed time for some of the things to
be straightened out.
There are many grievances that still exist in this part
of the country — the old feeling of aristocracy and cruelty
to the negro has by no means died out. I was told that
Governor Tilghman said the choicest relic he had in his
parlor was the rifle he used at the massacre of the blacks
at a given point.
D. C. Wilson gave as a piece of statistics that the

324 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
taxable property of the negro in the United States was
four hundred millions, which would be about fifty dollars
to every individual. I have seen the statistics of the
whites to the import that it was one thousand dollars to
an individual, so that as yet the negro has about one-
twentieth of the property, and one-eighth or one-ninth of
the population, a disparity that need not excite any imme
diate alarm, nor should it if the condition were reversed,
and all under the government of the Prince of Peace.
One James Wigg spoke of help being wanted on the
main land, and spoke of one or two plantations where
every house was carried away or wrecked, and also spoke
of two plantations where no help had been afforded.
An interesting incident was told of a mother who
started off with three children, two of them behind her
holding on to her dress and her oldest boy in front of her,
she holding on to the collar of his coat. She was asked
why she put him before her, for she could stand in deeper
water than he could. "Yes," she said, "but if I went first
into the ditch, we might have all been drowned ; but if he
got in a ditch I could drag him out by the collar and we
all be saved."
Twelfth month 30. Had an early breakfast and took
7.15 train from Charleston to Columbia, passing over a
flat country with much swampy ground and poor build
ings. Arrived about 11.15. Called on Emily Williams,
Bishop Salter and the widow of the late Bishop Dicker-
son, who told me how to find the residence of Ellen C.

Age 63 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 325
Brayton, who, in the correspondence I had with her,
invited me to call on them. I was very hospitably re
ceived and entertained. She is the wife of Ellery Bray
ton, a man of considerable means or large possessions,
holding four thousand acres of land, in addition to other
property. On telling her of my desire to see the Gov
ernor, she kindly wrote a note and sent it to him, asking
him to appoint a time when he would grant an interview,
and word came back appointing four o'clock.
I had some interesting conversation with Ellery Bray
ton in regard to the granting of leases to tenants and
taking liens on the crops. The land is let out in lots
from ten to thirty acres, at prices varying from one to
four or five dollars an acre. Each plot rented was ex
pected to have a house on it, and in most cases there was
a mule hired, and the agreement on the part of the land
lord to furnish a given amount of fertilizer.
Called on the Governor, whom I found, as was re
ported, a pretty rough-looking man. He was, however,
frank and open; but had not much sympathy for the
blacks. He said the condition about Beaufort was a
peculiar one. There were forty thousand blacks in
Beaufort county, and only fifteen hundred whites, and
that whilst it would be a disgrace to allow the people to
perish, yet a state government had need to be careful how
they took up charity lest it should be abused.
After considerable conversation we parted in a friendly
way, he saying he was willing to be communicated with

326 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1893
at any time and give an opinion if desired. I was well
satisfied with having had an interview and feel that the
door is open for further correspondence.
Returned to Brayton's to lodge, easy in mind for the
homecoming trip.

CHAPTER XII.
Religious Services in Philadelphia and Vicinity.
Fourth month I, 1894. After our appointed meeting
last evening I heard that there were thirty-five Catholics
outside the building who had heard what was said, and
a police officer among them, who appeared to be particu
larly impressed. The police officer was not there at my
request, but I think he was not out of place. The Roman
Catholics were probably afraid to come in lest they should
be censured by their priests.
Fourth month 2. Our dear little granddaughter, Edith,
passed away this afternoon. As I rode along in the car
before hearing of her death I was favored with a feeling
of quietness, and the words came to me, "In the Divine
Hand." I trust they are applicable to both the survivors
and the dear departed one.
Fourth month 3. At brother Thomas' request went
with him to the Southwestern burying ground, where he
decided upon the purchase of lots 271 and 272, section B.
Fourth month 5. At the funeral of our dear grand
child we had a goodly gathering of sympathizers, the
house being pretty well filled. Aunt Abigail Vail, Virginia
Sellew, Mary S. Walton, Rebecca Kite, William U. Ditz
ler, Charles Rhoads, all had something to offer. Son
Alfred said, "He whom Edith called upon — the Saviour —
said 'Suffer little children to come unto Me and forbid
327

328 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1894
them not.' " I felt drawn to the company downstairs, feel
ing it was due them that I should show them we appre
ciated the sympathy shown by them in coming, so I went
down and addressed them in that line. I also alluded to
the feelings I had when an infant sister died when I was
small, and I thought I prayed with all my strength for
her life and thought it strange she did not live, but I had
not then learned that, like those who were with our
Saviour when on earth, we had need to ask Him to teach
us how to pray. I afterward appeared in supplication.
At the graveside cousin Benjamin Vail offered a short
petition and son Joseph said a few words, commencing,
"And the spirit to Him who gave it."
Fourth month 26. Went into one of the synagogues of
the Jews and had an interview with the chief rabbi. Our
conversation was on religious subjects. He told me there
were forty thousand Jews in this city. It is the time of
the keeping of the Passover, and in the basement I saw
a number of Jews standing with their hats on, and, I was
told, in the attitude of prayer. There were many candles
burning, although it was not yet sundown. It seemed to
be a recess in their time of worship when I was there,
and those I took to be their principal men were quite
friendly and disposed to hear all that I offered. I ex
plained to them in what I believed spiritual worship
consisted, as also how I believed the true Passover might
be kept.
Fourth month 27. This day I complete my sixty-

Age 64 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 329
fourth year and my wife her fifty-eighth. We are now
in the thirty-eighth year that we have lived together and
have witnessed many exercises and many mercies. May
the preserving and supporting power of our Heavenly
Father be with and underneath us to the end.
Sixth month 15. Went to the meeting in the Simpson
Memorial building on Kensington avenue, above Cam
bria, which I understood, when the arrangement was
made with the pastor, was to be conducted after the
manner of our Society, but on arrival we found the pastor
engaged with a number of children singing in a side room,
and on going with them into the large room found quite
a number assembled, three hundred or more being pres
ent. The pastor seemed decided on opening the meeting
in his own way and then handing it over to us. There
seemed no other way than to let it be so, without making
more of a disturbance than would be profitable. He had
some singing, and then a vocal prayer, and then a few
introductory remarks in giving the time to us. I em
braced the opportunity, stating that we were moving
amongst the people, hoping to be brought into sympathy
with them, and as the name of the Saviour was so much
on the lips of the people, the children having sung that
He was a "wonderful Saviour," I added that He might
be known among them, not only because they had read
or heard of Him, but by living experience. We all might
know Him as the Everlasting Father and through his
glorious gospel be made new creatures, followers of Him

330 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1894
with a reverential sense of his divinity. It was touching
and interesting to be with so many children and young
people. Seventh month 3. I had a feeling interview with the
warden of the Eastern State Penitentiary. He had given
me a book of his to read, and I gave him my views on it.
Whilst I could not approve of capital punishment, which
he thought was warranted in the case of three crimes;
nor could I agree with him on the point that intemperance
was not the cause of much of the crime prevailing, for I
believed it was, and I hardly agreed with him on what he
calls the one-man government, yet I do believe that the
thirty-four years he has spent in that institution have
resulted in his making that prison very much of a model
for cleanliness and comfort and low death rate compared
with other institutions ; and whilst the warden may hold
different views and have different religious associations,
yet I trust he is the object of Divine mercy and regard,
and his work on prisons is valuable for reference.
Eighth month 6. At our Quarterly Meeting I brought
up a subject that had been on my mind for some time
in the second meeting, stating that whilst it was the busi
ness of our meeting emphatically to labor for the build
ing up of the body, yet was there not a duty towards the
community in our collective capacity, and whilst we had
cause for thankfulness that we had been spared some of
the great trials that had been in other parts of the
country, and we had institutions that were a credit before

Age 64 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 331
the world, yet the evils that abounded were subjects
which should exercise our minds, and the question was
whether it might not be right to address our fellow-
citizens thereon? The multiplying of the theatres and
other places of amusements, and the evidences we had
of the licentiousness of some of the police officers, were
very grievous, and there was too much reason to fear
those officers connived with much of the wickedness. I
did not want to be anxious in reference to the address. I
only wanted that, for our sakes and the welfare of those
who should come after us, we should be concerned to do
our part and not hold back because we felt ourselves to
be but a handful. After a great deal of unity had been
expressed, a minute was made as follows:
At a Quarterly Meeting of Friends, held in Philadelphia the
Sixth-day of the Eighth month, 1894 :
The attention of the meeting having been called to the evil
effect of places of amusements in this city, as also the disposition
to foster a military spirit in public schools and in other ways,
and that those evils are on the increase, with but little hope of any
check being applied by the civil laws, the subject has brought us
under weighty exercise of mind, under which it was believed
right to set apart a few friends to further consider the subject,
and if way opens for it, prepare an address to the community on
these and kindred matters and produce it to our next meeting,
namely, Joseph S. Elkinton, George J. Scattergood, James E.
Rhoads, Richard J. Allen, Edward Maris, Edwin P. Sellew, Joel
Cadbury, John W. Biddle, Ephraim Smith and Benjamin Vail.
Taken from the Minutes. Ephraim Smith, Clerks

332 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1894
Eighth month 20. Met with a person to-day who had
a great respect for Friends, and wanted to know about
the way to become a member, to which I replied that it
took a good deal to make a Friend, and more to keep him
when he is made. We could not manufacture them, but
when the Lord made them we wanted to own them.
Eighth month 21. This evening Edwin P. Sellew and
I attended a meeting on Front street, below Berks, in a
place that was a mere shed, with sawdust on the ground
and old chairs to seat the people. For a time it seemed
as if we might have a pretty rough company, but we
settled down into a degree of solemnity and had a favored
meeting. After I had made some expression intended to
close the meeting, the pastor was so impressed he used
the somewhat extravagant expression, "If you have not
had a feast from Heaven it is because you are not in
condition to receive it."
Eleventh month 22. In the afternoon met the com
mittee appointed at a previous meeting to pay personal
visits, as far as practical, to the ministers of the different
denominations to deliver the Address issued by our Quar
terly Meeting.
Eleventh month 23. Called on several Presbyterian
and Methodist ministers, who received the Address
kindly, and two promised to call the attention of their
respective meetings of ministers to it. One promised to
see that every family in his congregation was supplied
with a copy.

Age 64 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 333
I went to the residence of Patrick John Ryan, the
Roman Catholic archbishop, and asked for a brief inter
view. I was shown into a parlor and allowed to wait
for twenty minutes, when the archbishop came in. His
manner towards me was pleasant. After we were together
a little while he seemed open and disposed to converse
on the evils that abounded in our city and said he would
read our Address and, if he approved of it, would recom
mend it to the clergy. He spoke of having crossed the
ocean with one of our members, J. Bevan Braithwaite,
and on my observing he was a well-informed man, he
said, "Yes," and that he was much interested in his
conversation. I told the archbishop that whilst it was our
intention to distribute the Address pretty generally, I
chose first to go to those of character and influence in
the city and tell them what I had in view. From there
I went to see the Mayor, and had the privilege of quiet
retirement until he was disengaged. He received me
openly, and not only promised to read the Address which
I gave him, but he presented me with a Council's Manual,
containing the list of the residences of the members of
the Select and Common Councils, and recommended me
to mail the Address to their residences that their families
might have the opportunity to read it.
Eleventh month 26. I was allowed to go into the
meeting of the Methodist ministers and speak concerning
the Address by our Quarterly Meeting, and left a suffi
cient number of copies to furnish one to each member.

334 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1894
I met with a very kindly response, and a motion was
recorded to the import that they appreciated what had
been delivered, and it was grateful to them to know the
concern of our Society. From that place I went to a
meeting of colored ministers and was given a hearing
and received a favorable response to what I offered.
Eleventh month 27. I went to see Nicholas Cantrell,
vicar-general of the Roman Catholics. I was taken to
the second story and, when about entering his private
room, it was observed that he was at his prayers. When
he had finished he came into the entry, and invited me in,
and was disposed to be social. He was eighty-two years
of age, and has been in that place nearly fifty years. He
said he would read the Address, and allowed me to leave
some for distribution. As in the other cases, I was
granted an interview, in the course of which I received
more information of the condition of our district than
from any other source.
Eleventh month 29. In our Monthly Meeting for busi
ness I stated that it was not common to report on an
uncompleted service, yet as I had held a minute for a
year, I was willing to know the mind of the meeting
about continuing to hold it. I stated that I had en
deavored to keep pretty steadily under the exercise al
though I was away from the city for a time in the South
on account of the sufferers by the cyclone.
In appointing meetings I commenced near my own
home and along the river side, among the seafaring men

Age 64 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 335
and in the southeastern part of the city ; then went to the
northeastern portion. Through the summer months I
was engaged on Lehigh avenue and other parts of the
city east of the Schuylkill river. John G. Haines and
Edwin P. Sellew accompanied me, and we had been met
with openness and had been supported. Some precious
interviews had been held with individuals in different
conditions of life. I held myself open or resigned to
act according to the mind of the meeting, whether Friends
were willing for me to still hold the minute, or whether
I should discontinue the work after the engagements
already made had been fulfilled. There was a very
general expression of willingness that I should hold the
minute until I felt the service was accomplished.
Twelfth month 12. I have been moving around, seek
ing interviews with the Roman Catholic priests, which
is indeed a service requiring close watchfulness lest,
under an appearance of suavity of manner, there may be
deceit in those with whom we come in contact, and yet
I cannot complain of my fare. Had an interview to-day
with the chairman of the Consistory Board of the Pres
bytery at the "Bethany." He was very pleasant, and
seemed quite disposed to aid in the circulation of our
Address. First month 4, 1895. At the noonday meeting, 713
Chestnut street, there was a very large attendance. Sev
eral ministers of other societies, and quite a representa
tive of the younger part of the business community, were

336 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1895
present. The manager appointed by the Methodist Con
ference to have charge of the place told me the meeting
gave good satisfaction, and that he himself was in
structed by what was offered. The importance of integ
rity was held up to view, also the avoidance of luxury
and excesses of all kinds as being of evil tendency and
bad example, and the Divine blessing was to be desired
over and above any earthly consideration. The holding
of this meeting I had felt to be a weighty exercise, but it
seemed right to embrace the opportunity, as it was some
thing of an introduction among the business men in the
heart of the city.
First month 5. Physical suffering and exercises, both
of a mental and spiritual character, have been the portion
of many. But those who trust in the Lord and do His=
will are fed with food convenient for them, and many
can testify to the goodness of the Lord in dispensing his
favors, even of support in affliction. Has not the Lord
supported his own servants? And whether they have.
been fed with the bread of adversity, or the water of
affliction, or have known more of the blessing of Heaven
above and the earth beneath, yet the same Lord over all
has proved that He was good to all that call upon Him,
to all that call upon Him in truth.
Moving, as I have been, among the people and attend
ing religious concerns, I have at times, when alone in
my private room, secretly petitioned for my own and my
children's sake, that our business might be cared for and

Age 65 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 337
at the close of the year might have yielded sufficient to
cover family expenses and what may have been con
tributed to the necessities of others. I do not remember
when I have had more cause for gratitude than when
this petition has been granted, for many have, fallen
short, and the feeling has been with regard to the out
ward, as well as of spiritual application, who can stand ?
At the appointed meeting at the branch of the Young
Men's Christian Association the attendance was not
large, but we had a satisfactory meeting.
First month 24. Not long since I received a letter
from a man, inquiring where he could obtain writings
explanatory of the views of Friends. Preferring to visit
him, I have had an interesting interview. He stated that
he had been at various places of worship, without much
settlement; but that some months ago, sitting in Inde
pendence Square, there was an inward voice which said
to him, "Investigate the views of the Society of Friends,"
which he rather despised, thinking they were an old-time,
narrow-minded people; but he could not rid himself of
the monition until he wrote to me, having seen my name
in the directory as minister of the meeting nearest him.
He was not a believer in the Divinity of Christ. I told
him I did not think it best to argue with him. I could
only hope for the breaking forth of Light that would
convince him and I must leave him for the present with
his Maker. I, however, gave him a copy of Barclay's

338 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1895
Apology, and told him other books could be obtained at
our bookstore.
First month 25. At our Monthly Meeting my son
Joseph appeared in the line of prayer, that those who
might not be in a watchful state and were insensible when
Jesus of Nazareth was passing by might be aroused from
their insensibility. In the second meeting there was a
good measure of Life during the answers of the queries,
and some pertinent remarks made. The treasurer's
report was an interesting one, and I was impressed with
the amount of work that devolved upon the treasurer,
and I hope that my son William, in the discharge of this
trust, may be favored with best help. We have been
privileged to have officers in our Monthly Meeting who
have been faithful to the trusts committed to them. Such
have managed the concerns of Society in a way that has
brought credit to it and, as occasion has called for it,
could express the exercise of the body in writing so as
to convey a clear impression.
Brother Thomas, as clerk of the Monthly Meeting, and
Ephraim Smith, as clerk of the Quarterly Meeting, made
just and clear minutes, and I have heard nothing to the
contrary concerning sister Sarah, who is clerk of the
Women's Quarterly Meeting.
First month 31. This afternoon went to the Roman
Catholic institution at Overbrook and saw the principal,
and had the most open talk with him of any in his
position in reference to the distribution of the Address of

Age 65 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 339
our Quarterly Meeting. He expressed quite a willingness
to take part therein. He said there were one hundred
and forty students there, and he would take enough to
furnish a copy to each one. He said he had heard of
me, and was glad I had come to see him. This, as in
other cases, brought me under a feeling of the importance
of our acting consistently with our profession. I do
not know that I ever felt more the need of the prayers
of my friends, including those of sober thoughtfulness
outside the membership of our Society, that I might keep
my proper place in humility and serve the Lord with
reverence and godly fear.
Second month 27. Our meeting this evening was held
at Girard avenue and Lawrence street. The house is
not large, but was well filled, probably three hundred and
fifty present. The minister of that congregation was
evidently in a very kindly spirit towards Friends, and on
the settling of the meeting there was a remarkable feeling
of peace and sweetness. In the minister's introductory
remarks he spoke highly of Friends, and said he never
knew of one of them keeping a saloon.
Third month 14. An Episcopalian clergyman called to
see me, having heard that I had a hand in the Address
we had been distributing. He was anxious that we
should do something more than we had already done by
cautioning the people against the introduction of the
military system in the public schools, saying that the
majority of the members of the Legislature were opposed

340 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1895
to the bill that was now before that body, but it was
thought the minority would push it through, for the
Governor was in favor of it.
Third month 16. At our Meeting for Sufferings this
morning I opened the subject that the Episcopalian cler
gyman had spoken to me on, and it resulted in the
appointment of a committee to prepare a remonstrance.
Third month 23. My mind turned toward the Jewish
synagogue on Broad street above Columbia avenue. Re
formed Jews they call themselves. The synagogue is a
magnificent one inside. When last with the Rabbi, J.
Leonard Levy, I felt I should be with him again, and I
had received the impression that he was to speak to-day
on "Christ the Enlightener." I was confirmed in my
opinion, previously formed, that he was one of the best-
developed young men intellectually that I had met, and
is a very fluent speaker. What he said was very much
of an historical character, giving an account of what is
called the sanctuary of the Lord and its institutions. He
described the construction of the temple at Jerusalem,
and said that in the state of slavery the artistic talents
of the Jews could not be developed, therefore there were
artists brought from Tyre. He spoke of the desecration
of the temple, and of its reconstruction, and also of its
final destruction, as the speaker said, by a firebrand
applied by a Roman soldier ; and now, he stated, the sanc
tuary of the Lord is in the hearts and homes of the
children of Israel.

Age 65 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 341
I spent about an hour in the synagogue, and before
leaving I told J. L. Levy that I was under the impression
that he was to speak on "Christ the Enlightener." He
replied, "On the morrow." He had said in his discourse
that Jesus Christ received his education in the Jewish
synagogues which were scattered throughout all Judea,
and further conversation brought out the assertion from
him that whilst they believed Jesus Christ to have been
a great teacher, they denied his divinity. I asked him if
they justified his crucifixion. He said that was done on
political grounds, and it was written over the cross, "King
of the Jews."
They look upon the story of Jesus as being made up
for fear of the Romans; that it would not do to accuse
the Romans of the crucifixion of Christ, and they charged
it on the Jews. My spirit yearned over that young man.
What will all the brightness of intellect, or all the splen
dor of their temples amount to, if the Holy One and the
Just is denied; if they will not come to Him, in whom
there is life, and who gives eternal life to his followers?
Other foundation can no man lay than Jesus Christ, the
same yesterday, to-day and forever. It is hoped that
the Lord in His mercy would open the eyes of such an
one, whose talents, if sanctified, might fit him to be a
noble witness for the Truth as it is in Jesus.
Third month 28. Soon after the business of our
Monthly Meeting was entered upon I stated that, having
arrived at the judgment that the present might be a

342 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1895
proper time to give up the minute granted me in Eleventh
month, 1893, I did so. In the many engagements in
public meetings, or in a less public way, there had been
encountered no open resentment. The work had been
attended with some exercise, exposure and fatigue, which
were not worthy to be compared with the particular
providences and mercies that had been witnessed. The
way was very generally opened for the carrying on of
the concern, there being very few cases where applica
tions for places to hold meetings were not granted with
apparent cheerfulness. Blessed be the name of the Lord ;
there are those in the community who are honestly en
deavoring to serve their generation according to the
Divine will.
Sixth month 28. Called on William U. Ditzler, who
related to me some of the experiences of his early life.
He appears to have been seriously inclined from his
youth. His father was a Lutheran minister, and one of
his ancestors was of the company of Germans invited
by William Penn to come and settle in Pennsylvania.
When near sixteen years of age his father wanted him
to be confirmed, which William stoutly resisted, and his
father kept him in seclusion from the outside world for
months, telling him his views were like the Quakers, and
he wanted him to get rid of them. Through much per
suasion he was induced to submit to the confirmation with
certain reservations. During the time of comparative
seclusion William broke his leg and suffered much. In

Age 65 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 343
the course of time he obtained a situation in a store in
Lancaster, and there got the first insight into the tailoring
business. He had a strong drawing to Philadelphia, and
arrived while still in his minority.
Through information given by his friends where he
boarded, he found his way to Twelfth Street Meeting,
where a communication from Mary Ann Lloyd appears
to have been blessed to him and tended to settle him in
adopting that as his meeting, to which he applied for
membership before he was twenty-one years of age.
Knowing his father's views, Friends thought proper to
defer granting his request until he was of age, as he
could then act upon his own responsibility. Later he
was accepted as a member and visited by the committee
appointed to inform him of the fact. One of the com
mittee remarked that if he had anything to say to them,
they would be glad to hear it, to which he responded that
he hoped his future life would give them no cause to
regret their action in the matter.
His first appearance in the ministry was before he
became a member, and he spoke in German. A professor
in one of the medical colleges said there was no one in
that meeting who understood the message but the one
for whom it was intended, and that was himself.
Seventh month 25. In our Monthly Meeting for busi
ness I opened or expressed a concern to attend Ohio and
Western Yearly Meetings and some of the meetings com
posing them, also appoint some public meetings on the

344 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1895
line of travel, as also to be at Tunesassa at or near the
close of the session. There was a very fair expression
of unity with the concern and a minute was granted.
Eighth month 6. Left Philadelphia on the service for
which I was liberated by my Monthly and Quarterly
Meetings. Tenth month 12. Have received word of the death of
two of our ablest ministers — Clarkson Sheppard and
Richard Esterbrook. I question if their equals in relig
ious experience and as gospel ministers are left behind
them. They were both true friends to me, manifesting
an interest in my welfare, and in their company I had
true enjoyment. The manifestation of love and regard,
by word of mouth and by their letters and in other ways,
rises up in sweet and precious remembrance, and not
likely ever to be forgotten. It is left for us, as we are
bereft of such counselors, to seek and know the Lord for
our refuge and dwelling place. It was impracticable to
get home in time for dear Clarkson Sheppard's funeral ;
and I am sorry that, owing to there being no train east,
we will be unable to attend that of Richard Esterbrook,
arriving home just a few hours too late.
Tenth month 24. In the Monthly Meeting to-day I
reported that through Divine favor and the assistance of
those among whom my lot was cast, I had been enabled
to perform the service for which I had been liberated by
that meeting in the Seventh month. Had visited Friends
in Ohio and Indiana and had held nine appointed public

Age 65 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 345
meetings, and had been allowed religious opportunities in
the State Reformatory, and also with the students and
professors at Earlham College. The report and the read
ing of the returning minutes were kindly received.
Ephraim Smith stated that his attention had been
directed to the subject of joining Jonathan E. Rhoads in
the pursuance of his religious visit within the limits of
the Yearly Meetings of Great Britain and Ireland, and
he could not feel comfortable in turning from it and
felt willing to hold himself open to go if the Monthly
Meeting felt satisfied therewith. He wished that Friends
would express their judgment, either by approval or
otherwise. I said that Jonathan E. Rhoads was engaged
in religious sendee with the unity of his friends, and it
was reasonable that he should have a congenial com
panion ; and that Ephraim Smith was such we had ample
evidence, and my choice was that he should be liberated.
Tenth month 31. I have lately been notified of my
being elected as a member of the executive committee
of the Christian League.
I went to their office and was told of what they were
endeavoring to accomplish in the line of reform, and I
thought they were at work in a business-like way that
was likely to effect a change for the better, but I did
not see it my place to join the league, and went to the
chairman of the executive committee to state that I was
not prepared to accept the appointment, and there was
no likelihood of my complying with the suggestion put

346 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1896
in print by him; that there should be men chosen from
the different denominations to hold regular religious
services with the councils of this city. I explained that
it was inconsistent for any Friend to give the expectation
that he would regularly engage in public vocal religious
services, for we believe that religious service, in the line
of the ministry, should be of the Lord's appointing, as
well as the matter to be delivered and the place. Yet it
is well that the thoughts of the people should be turned
toward reform, and an endeavor made to bring a religious
influence to bear upon the men in authority. Samuel
Bettle, Sr., has said it requires a certain amount of grace
to understand Friends' principles.
Eleventh month 9. Went to the steamer Luciana to
see Ephraim Smith off on his journey across the Atlantic.
Eleventh month 25. A letter from brother Ephraim
informs of his having some sickness during the passage,
and that the pleasantest sight he saw on arrival was
Jonathan E. Rhoads.
Twelfth month 16. The root of the testimony against
war is no other than Christian love and that righteous
ness which produces peace and quietness and perpetual
assurance of a natural fruit.
First month 1, 1896. It was concluded by our firm to
allow our employees to stop work at noon, and at 2 P. M.
to return with their families to a dinner provided for
them at the factory. A table was set in the third story
of the factory, the eastern end of which had been cleared

Age 66 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 347
for the purpose. We had a satisfactory time at the
table, after which I spoke to the company, reverting to
the time fifty-two years ago when there was a similar
occasion. We had with us the representatives of the
fourth generation, my grandson Passmore being present.
The first had passed away, and it would not be long until
those of us of the second would pass away, and the
charge of affairs would naturally come on the next.
After I had finished, opportunity was given to George
Irwin, who had been long in our employ, to express
himself. He said he had thought of the Scripture passage
as being appropriate, and upon being requested to quote
it, repeated, "It is good for us to be here." He also
adverted to the time when this was spoken on the Mount,
and enlarged thereon. Two others of our employees
made kindly remarks. Son Joseph alluded to the absence
of his uncle, Ephraim Smith, and gave a very just tribute
to him. Son Alfred also spoke in a way I felt satisfied
with, as also son William, who addressed the company
after the hour spent in witnessing some magic lantern
views, kindly shown by Anna Walton and William Cow-
perthwaite, and they all retired with apparently very
pleasant feelings.
First month 26. Having had my mind drawn to meet
again with those who gather on First-day evenings at
the "Sunday Breakfast Association" rooms, and finding
that William U. Ditzler had been laboring under a similar
concern, an appointment was made for this evening,

348 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1896
Charles Rhoads and Edwin P. Sellew joining in the
concern. On our arrival at the place, I suppose twelve hundred
were there; and I was told there were three hundred
and fifty in the room below. I expressed a concern that
I had on my mind as follows: That whilst I supposed
there was but a small proportion of those present that
had any part in the late disturbances in our city, yet I
felt to enforce the great desirableness of all being peace-
loving and law-abiding citizens, and I felt required to
present to their view that we should be in a spirit to
pray that those in authority should be imbued with the
spirit of justice and of wisdom, and that patience should
be observed by all who felt they had grievances. Whilst
I approved of laws for the suppression of evil, yet it
would never be effectually done until individuals gave
place to the convictions of the Holy Spirit, for it was only
by the light and power of Christianity that evil could be
abolished. I spoke also of the importance of secret sup
plication to overcome evil. After expressing myself
there, I went into the lower room, and when Edwin P.
Sellew finished speaking, I addressed the company, after
which the superintendent of the Industrial Home, in
connection with the association, delivered an address that
was attended with a good feeling. Charles Rhoads and
William U. Ditzler also had service in the upper room.
Second month 20. A stranger came to me after meet
ing, saying he wanted to speak with me and go to my

Age 66 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 349
house, if agreeable. He said he had driven around with
my father and William Evans a week, when they were
in Canada, and that they had lodged at his father's
several nights. His father's name was Judah Bowerman.
I gave him the account of father's travels in Canada to
read after dinner, in which he was much interested, and
called my attention to a name mentioned in one of my
father's letters, saying he knew of that man, and told
of his having a very fine pair of horses, about the finest
in that part of the country, and a hired man was sent
with them on an errand. A little son of the owner begged
to go and was allowed. On the way the boy was encour
aged to get out to look after some squirrels, when he
was shot, and the man drove off with the horses. The
mother of the boy dreamed he had been shot and saw
the place in her dream, and there the body of the boy
was found. The man was pursued and executed.
Judah Bowerman had a heavy load on his mind, with
two carloads of prunes — twenty tons — to dispose of,
which he had brought from Oregon. Son William kindly
helped him by finding a party willing to make an advance
of three and one-half cents a pound, and pay the freight
and sell the prunes on commission. J. Bowerman stayed
over night with us, and after making arrangements about
the prunes started for home.
Third month i. A considerable number of strangers
coming late into our afternoon meeting, my mind was
turned particularly towards them, and I commenced

350 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1896
speaking with the words: "It was with a deeper feeling
than was generally implied in the word welcome; that
we rejoiced when those we were not acquainted with
inclined to meet with us." We were thankful we had a
place that, in the religious liberty now allowed, we could
assemble together, where it might be said prayer was
wont to be made, and where we came to present our
selves before the Most High and to wait on Him for the
renewal of strength and Divine counsel. My tongue was
loosened on this occasion to speak of some of our dis
tinguishing principles. A. heavenly peace prevailed when
the spirit of revenge was taken out of the human heart.
Also that the offerings which were acceptable to the
Lord were those made in brokenness and contrition of
spirit, and the Lord would show what was to be given
up and what was to be performed by the aid of his Spirit.
We should also be given to know that the baptism which
is saving is the answer of a good conscience toward God
by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
To the Board of Public Education for the First School District
of Pennsylvania.
We would respectfully represent that as a Committee of the
Religious Society of Friends of Philadelphia and parts adjacent,
we feel called earnestly to protest against the proposition now
pending before your board, whereby it is designed to introduce
a system of military drill in the high schools of this city.
The chief considerations leading us to this course are so
clearly set forth in a memorial of the representatives above re
ferred to, addressed to the Legislature of Pennsylvania, that we

Age 66 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 351
would refer to a copy of it herewith presented. We trust this
may receive your very careful consideration before final action
shall be taken on the resolution.
On behalf of the above committee, Samuel Morris,
Joseph S. Elkinton
Phladelphia, Sixth month 5, 1896.
A Memorial of the Representatives of the Yearly Meeting and
Parts Adjacent :
To the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of
Pennsylvania.
Your memorialists respectfully represent that we have learned,
with sorrow and anxiety, that a bill is now before the Legislature
for the introduction of a military drill into the public school
system of Pennsylvania; and against this innovation we feel
bound respectfully but earnestly to protest.
First: Because we believe that all the advantages as regards
physical development and habits of obedience claimed for such
training may be attained by other and better methods.
Second: Because the natural tendency of the proposed drill
will be to impress the minds of growing boys with an admiration
for the profession of arms and martial display, which already
needs no stimulus.
Third: Because its introduction into educational institutions
would foster the false view which regards the rendering of mili
tary service as the highest test of patriotism. Such a sentiment
tends to undervalue the services of those in the peaceful walks of
life, whose love for their fellow-men is continually proven by
acts of self-sacrifice for the good of others and devotion to the
best interests of their country.
Fourth: We hold that the true policy of republican institu
tions is eminently peaceful, and therefore adverse to warfare or
the preparation for it. The real strength of our country consists,
not in its readiness for meeting all possible contingencies by
armed resistance, but in the intelligence, the virtue, the moral
courage, and the God-fearing character of its people. It is by
reason of the extent and completeness of the military systems of
Europe that her peoples are to-day groaning under many and

352 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1896
grievous burdens. We deem it therefore most unwise for our
own favored nation, in a time of profound peace, to enter upon a
course that must lead us in the same direction, and invite the very
dangers which large armaments and navies are supposed to
provide against.
Fifth: Upon the coming of our blessed Saviour, a new dis
pensation to mankind was ushered in, with the angelic anthem,
"Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will
toward men," and ages before it had been foretold by a prophet
of the Most High that there would come a time when "men shall
learn war no more.'' This happy period will be hastened or re
tarded by an acceptance or rejection, by nations as well as by in
dividuals, of the practical teachings of the Gospel. The Com
monwealth of Pennsylvania was founded in the faith that a
Christian government can be administered on Christian principles,
and it was successfully and safely carried on without a military
organization, or the resort to military force for more than seventy-
years. If the peaceable spirit which then pervaded the com
munity were once more to prevail, there would be but little dispo
sition to favor such a measure as that now designed to be in
grafted on the laws of the state.
Sixth: We believe one inevitable result of the proposed in
struction in military tactics would be a connection more or less
direct and permanent between the War Department of the Gov
ernment and secular education as at present carried on by the
state schools. These in our judgment should be preserved en
tirely distinct.
Seventh: The public school system of Pennsylvania is an out
growth of the long experience and careful consideration of some
of our best educators, and many of them are unfavorable to the
introduction of the proposed drill as seriously interfering with
the present complete course of instruction.
Again, the maintenance of the schools is dependent upon taxes
paid by the people of the state, all of whom are equally entitled
to the benefits arising from them. But many of these patrons
could not, consistently with their religious convictions, send their
children to schools where military training is a part of the cur
riculum, nor could others, for a like reason, take positions as
directors or teachers of schools.

Age 66 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 353
We, therefore, can but regard the purposes of the bill in ques
tion as inimical to the best interests of the state, unjust to a large
number of its worthy citizens, and an infringement of the rights
of conscience, so dear to the people of this Commonwealth. We
trust that for these and other reasons it may not receive the
sanction of the Legislature.
By direction and on behalf of a meeting of the representatives
aforesaid, held in Philadelphia, Third month 22, 1895.
Joseph Walton, Clerk.
Sixth month 7. Went to the office of the Board of
Education with a protest that was signed by Samuel
Morris and myself, on behalf of a Committee of the
Representatives of the Society of Friends, that was
drawn up with the authorty of the committee last Sixth-
day, which is as follows :
Sixth month 7. The work of visiting the Board of
Education individually has been an exercising one, but I
have my reward in the endeavor to promote the cause of
peace and righteousness, and I trust not in my own will.
Sixth month 13. Jonathan E. Rhoads and Ephraim
Smth arrived at their respective homes early this morn
ing. I went to Ephraim Smith's immediately after break
fast and enjoyed the sight of him. He looked well, and
reported Jonathan E. Rhoads the same.
Seventh month 25. The last two days have been pretty
steadily engaged in preparing for the mail the Address
lately adopted in regard to the attitude of the professing
Christian church on the subject of war. About 34,000
have been mailed thus far to the ministers of other de
nominations, and some of the acknowledgments received

354 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1896
give evidence of acceptance and a willingness to assist
in the distribution thereof.
Eighth month 26. Attended Malvern meeting yester
day, where I had an offering to make, in the course of
which I said: "There is no other name under Heaven
whereby we can be saved but by the name of Jesus Christ
of Nazareth." It is true that it is by revelation that we
are to know Him aright and through Divine openings
that we can have a right insight into the glorious dis
pensation opened to us through what He did for us.
Any ignoring of these fundamentals of the Christian
religion tends to a spiritual deadness and very averse to
having our lives hidden with Christ in God. God must
be our all in all. Christ is to be worshipped with the
Father. He is to be our Leader and Commander, and
they who are to stand without fault in the great day of
account are they who follow Him withersoever He is
pleased to lead them. It is a precious privilege when at
times our knees are ready to smite together for weakness
and we can scarce do more than lift up our eyes, and
say "God be merciful," and when permitted to mingle
with our friends, or at times when alone, that we are
favored with true retirement and our thoughts are upon
heavenly things. To the natural mind such openings may
seem simply imaginations, for eye hath not seen nor ear
heard, neither hath it entered into the heart of man to
know those things which He hath in store for thdse who
love Him.

Age 66 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 355
Eighth month 27. At a special meeting, of the Com
mittee on the Address regarding the attitude of Christian
professors on the subject of war, statements were given
concerning the distribution of 50,000 copies, and it was
evident that 50,000 more would be required to cover the
ground undertaken, as there were at least 40,000 more
in the station of ministers who had not yet been furnished
with copies, and it was proposed to send some to students
in the colleges.
Ninth month 2. I was cheered by the sight of my
Malinda this morning, she having come in from Malvern,
and looking the better for her visit. I feel it to be a
cause of thankfulness to be thus gathered back to our
homes. Ninth month 3. Forty years to-day since my Malinda
and I were married, in the course of which time we have
had considerable experience. On looking over the signers
of our marriage certificate, about one-half of them have
passed on to their everlasting reward. We have been
allowed to be longer together than the average of married
couples, and have had our mercies. May the protecting
care of our Heavenly Father be continued.
Tenth month 10. Called on a man who had made con
siderable research in Indian history, and he told me of
an incident of a tribe of Indians in the west, who, hearing
that the white men, east, had a great book that told of
the works of the Great Spirit, and the way to be happy
with Him after leaving this world, they deputed four of

356 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1896
their old men to go east and get that book. They pro
ceeded as far as St. Louis and asked for the book, as
they were instructed to get it. They applied to some of
the officials who, being Roman Catholics, put them off.
They waited considerable time and two of their number
died and were buried. The commander of the fort, or
chief officer of the place, made them some presents, and
when they were about to send the two remaining ones
of the deputation off to the home of their tribe, one of
them let it be known he was not quite prepared to go until
he should be allowed to speak. The following is the
address on behalf of the Flat Head Indians to General
Clark at St. Louis, Mo. :
"I came to you over a trail of many moons from the
Setting Sun. You were the friend of my fathers who
have all gone the long way. I came with one eye partly
opened for more light for my people who sit in darkness.
I go back with both eyes closed ; how can I go back blind
to my people ? I made my way to you with strong arms,
through many enemies and strange lands, that I might
carry back much to them. I go back with both arms
broken and empty. The two fathers who came with us,
the braves of many winters and wars, we leave asleep
here by your great water and wigwam. My people sent
to get the white man's Book of Heaven. You took me
where you allow your women to dance, as we do not
ours, and the Book was not there. You took me where
they worship the Great Spirit with candles and the Book

Age 66 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 357
was not there. You showed me the images of good spirits
and pictures of the good land beyond, but the Book was
not among them to tell the way. I am going back the long
sad trail to my people in the dark land. You make my
feet heavy with the burden of gifts, and my moccasins
will grow old in carrying them, but the Book is not
among them. When I will tell my people after one more
snow in the big council that I did not bring the Book, no
word will be spoken by our old men, nor by our young
braves. One by one they will rise up and go out in
silence. My people will die in darkness and they will
go in the long path to the other hunting grounds. No
white man will go with them and no white man's Book
will make the way plain. I have no more words."
The government clerk who wrote down this speech was
met some time afterward by a man who had heard the
story, but said he did not believe it, as he had traveled
some distance in company with the two surviving Indians
referred to, and they did not say anything about it. The
government clerk said it was true, and he had the record
with him, which he drew out of his pocket. This so
affected the man that was inclined to doubt it that he
said it ought to be given to the world, and the account
of it reaching Massachusetts, it is said, was the occasion
of missionaries being sent into the northwest.
Tenth month 29. In our Monthly Meeting I felt a
concern that had been more or less on my mind come
into such a shape that I could lay it definitely before the

358 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1896
meeting. The prospect was to appoint meetings for
Divine worship among the inhabitants of Chester and
Lancaster counties, more particularly on the line of the
railroads; also to visit some of the public institutions,
and my mind was also turned towards one or more insti
tutions of learning. The meeting was united in liberating
me for the service.
Taken from the Peace Maker and Court of Arbitration,
Eighth month, 1896 :
Relating to a meeting that was held under the auspices of the
Universal Peace Union, when Hodgson Pratt, of London, Eng
land, gave an address which was well received. Several others
also spoke, among whom was Joseph S. Elkinton, of Philadel
phia, who arose and said that as slavery and lotteries have given
away before the Light of Christianity, so must the evils of intem
perance and war be banished in the fullness of time, not ours to
say when. He adverted to Hodgson Pratt's statement of the
unwillingness of some to receive the doctrine of Divine revela
tion, and asserted his faith that it is the office of our Lord and
Saviour Jesus Christ to bring man into the state into which he
was created, to a communion with his Maker ; that bodies coming
together for righteous judgment upon the affairs of the nations
were not to depend so much upon intellectual powers as upon
Heavenly Wisdom, Divine Guidance. He was very glad to hear
of that network Hodgson Pratt had mentioned spreading over
Europe in the interest of peace, and if they are constrained to a
righteous judgment, unquestionably it will be a blessing to the
people at large.
Tenth month 30. Went to Wilmington and attended
meeting. In conversing with Jonathan E. Rhoads I
found that he had spoken to a Friend about his mind
being turned towards holding meetings in Lancaster and
York counties. Of this I had no foreknowledge, and it

Age 66 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 359
was both congenial and confirming to me that we might
work together. J. E. R. expects to lay the matter before
his next Monthly Meeting.
Eleventh month ii. Went to West Chester, where I
obtained permission to have a religious opportunity at
the Normal school to-morrow morning at 8.30, and at
the jail from 10 to 11 o'clock. Jonathan E. Rhoads
joined me, and we went this evening to our meeting,
previously appointed at the Tattersal building. About five
hundred people were in attendance. Some very plain doc
trine was put forth in regard to the divinity and exalta
tion of the kingdom of Christ. As we walked home from
the meeting with William P. Townsend, J. E. R. said to
him: "When Joseph speaks first, he puts forth the
thoughts of my mind," which, Joseph hearing, replied :
"And then Jonathan, after the points have been stated,
develops them before the people and tells them what full
ness there is in them."
Eleventh month 12. We had a precious meeting at
the Normal school and an engagement at the county
poorhouse at 2 P. M.
Eleventh month 22. A letter received from my dear
wife expressed the trust that the "Will of the Master
may be prospered in the labor of love He designed in
this service."
Eleventh month 23. Arrived at Colora, and the loca
tion of the meeting to be held this afternoon is about
seven miles from here, which I understand to be the

360 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1897
neighborhood and meeting place where John Churchman
belonged in his day, in Pennsylvania, near the state line.
The bricks of the larger part of the houses were brought
from England, and are rather larger than the usual size
and in a much better state of preservation than some we
see in the old walls of houses ; a part of the house, how
ever, is built of stone. The whole was capable of seating
a large Quarterly Meeting.
First month 5, 1897. Attended the funeral of William
U. Ditzler, which was a large one. William U. Ditzler
had the love of the people, and it was manifested by the
representatives of character in our Society and others.
The Mayor of our city was present, as also the Roman
Catholic archbishop, or his representative, who said
William U. Ditzler was a good man, and that the world
had need of such men.
First month 10. Upon my arrival at home this evening,
after having attended the appointed meeting at Bird-in-
Hand, I found Mary Holgate* very weak and in suffer
ing, and it seemed as if her end might be near.
First month 25. Mary Holgate, having rallied again,
I went this morning to Mount Joy to look after a few
appointments that had been made and see if I might get
one postponed, but on my return in the afternoon found
that Mary Holgate had passed away about noon, which
has ended the life of one who has left a good record, and

*Mary Holgate was for years an acceptable member of the
family.

Age 67 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 361
no doubt has now entered into the rest prepared for the
people of God.
First month 28. The funeral gathered to-day at
Orange Street Meeting House at 2 o'clock, there not
being quite so large an attendance as would have been
on account of the severity of the weather. I could not
go to the graveyard and get to Lancaster in time for the
appointed meeting, which had been widely advertised to
be held in the court house, and which I could hardly
recall, so I proceeded to Lancaster, where I arrived in
due season, and I do not remember a time when I was
more supported in the service.
First month 29. When I arrived home to-day a tele
gram awaited me, informing us of the death of our aunt,
Anna M. Edgerton. She was the widow of my wife's
great uncle, Joseph Edgerton, and she was a lovely,
sweet-spirited character.
Second month 6. Went to Harrisburg, where I en
gaged a cab, and told the driver to take me to the Mes
siah Benevolent Home to see Henry Davidson. "To the
bishop's you mean," said he. "Yes," I said, "to Bishop
Henry Davidson's." So off we went and came to a stop
in front of a sizable building on top of a hill. I had
been told the "home" was on top of the hill, but did not
expect to see such an institution as that, but up the steps
I went and rang the bell, which a pleasant-looking woman
finally answered. I asked for Henry Davidson. She
said: "Do you wish to see the bishop?" "Yes," said I.

362 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1897
I was then shown into the reception room. Oh! me!
thought I, have the bishops of the River Brethren come
to all this imagery. What is coming next? But in comes
a pretty neat-looking white-haired man, with a cape all
embroidered and a gold chain around his neck, with a
gold cross in front. I said, "Is this Henry Davidson,
bishop of the River Brethren?" "My dear sir," said he,
"I am the Roman Catholic bishop." I then said, "Please
allow me to read in my notebook the address, or tell me
how to find the Messiah Benevolent Home?" "Come
into the library," said he, "and you will have more light,"
and lighted up it was, and such a library one does not
often see. A great chair was offered me, and I sat down.
He alluded to the large fire we had in Philadelphia, and
I spoke of the fire at the capitol, telling him that I thought
a great deal went on inside the capitol buildings that was
not for the best, and I hoped the people would take a
sober view of the burning of it. He told me that $75,000
had lately been spent in decorating, but he felt the effect
of it on the public mind was disastrous. He also con
versed with me on some other crying evils and gave me a
pamphlet, put out as an answer to Robert Ingersol's
lecture on the "Mistakes of Moses." I promised to send
him the addresses put out by our Quarterly Meeting and
the Meeting for Sufferings. I related to him some of the
conversation I had with Archbishop Ryan and Nicholas
Cantrell. He said he was with "Father" Cantrell some
thirty years ago, and I told him that I lived near him at

Age 67 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 363
that time on Second street. The bishop was a model of
courtesy, but never told me that the place I wanted to
find was very close to his palatial residence, so I had to
ride back to the depot and get some one else to show me,
as it was too dark for me to prospect alone. But I was
set straight and reached my destination finally, and
receiving an invitation from Bishop Davidson and his
wife to remain over night, I accepted. They wished me
to advise them about starting a benevolent missionary
institution in Philadelphia. I endeavored to satisfy them
without committing myself to much extent. Their
daughter is a talented young woman, knows three or
four languages, but has foreign missions much on her
mind. The next morning we had a religious opportunity,
and they both evinced a righteous concern that I might be
supported in the work I had been engaged in and am still
prosecuting. I was shown through the house, and there
seems to have been a good work started in it.
Second month 18. When in Marietta I was informed
of the funeral of a young man, which I felt best satisfied
to attend. After the funeral, as I was walking along
the street a little boy said to me, "What are you doing?"
I replied, "Visiting the people, little folks and big ones."
"Why," said he, "the people are all dead." A pretty
close speech, but I suppose the boy was impressed with
what he had heard and seen, and there have been many
deaths in this locality of late. At one place near here I

364 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1897
was told that father, mother and son died within a few
days of each other.
Second month 26. I gave my report to the Monthly
Meeting that I had finished the service expressed in the
minute granted me in the Tenth month, and had been
favored with the company of Jonathan E. Rhoads at
nearly all of the meetings attended in Chester county;
but, on entering Lancaster county his health gave way,
and it was not thought wise for him to proceed. We
commenced at West Chester, holding a public meeting
there and visiting public institutions. We then visited
Lincoln, Millersville and Lititz. The visits were received
with cheerfulness. We made our homes at places that
served as central points, from which meetings could be
reached within an hour's ride, and we met with much
kindness and openness. Elhannan Zook was with me
at some of the meetings. A Friend accompanied me to
the meeting at Lancaster court house and the prison, and
offered to go further ; but, as I proceeded to western part
of Lancaster county there was such fearful sickness pre
vailing, and the death rate so great, that I shrank from
asking any one to share the risk.
There was tenderness manifested amongst the Mora
vians, Mennonites, River Brethren, United Brethren and
German Baptists, and the meetings were largely attended,
frequently to the capacity of their meeting houses, not
withstanding the sickness prevailing, which caused a feel-

Age 67 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 365
ing of seriousness in keeping with the gravity of the
situation of the community.
I attended several funerals, one of which I considered
one of the most remarkable occasions in my life. About
five hundred people were in attendance, and I felt the
ministers were helped from on high in a remarkable
manner. I considered the accommodations for prisoners
at Lancaster behind the age, but they had a moral in
structor or chaplain, who was adapted to the work, and
had an influence for good with the prisoners. Tender
ness was manifested by those prisoners that I visited,
who had either taken or attempted to take life. I felt
I had cause to commemorate the goodness of the Lord
for the measure of preservation and support given, and
was confirmed in the conviction that those whose minds
were stayed on Him would be kept in peace, and was
encouraged to hope that when years increased and the
powers of mind and body might fail, those with whom I
have been associated through life with myself might not
be forsaken.
Third month 3. Brother Thomas has not been well,
and it is very affecting to me to see him so touched. We
have to look pretty seriously now as to who will have
charge of the business in a little while. Brother 'Thomas
and Ephraim and myself will go off the stage of life
pretty nearly together. We have had our favors and
mercies and, with all our trials, have been watched over
for good; and I crave for the continuance of the pre-

366 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1897
serving power that we may be favored with best wisdom
in our movements. We finally look to our son William
as the probable financier of our firm, and he has good
qualifications for business, but must be properly sup
ported or he will not be equal to the charge. Son Alfred
is a good mechanic. Son Joseph is a good chemist.
Third month io. Had a very satisfactory interview
with brother Thomas. He seems in a tender and reason
able frame of mind, disposed to look at things in a sober
and thoughtful light. I am in great sympathy with my
son William in the charge he has to carry, but I hope
he may be favored with a measure of Heavenly wisdom
and support; and as I have said to him, I have prayed
for the preservation of the business. There are six
families to be supported by it, but we have received our
favors of the Lord and have encouragement to trust Him.
Fifth month 29. Last evening I attended a meeting at
Wrightsville with Jonathan E. Rhoads, where there was
a large representation of young people, and it seemed
as if the young women and girls had thought it was
decoration evening — the roses and flowers that adorned
their hats would take a woman to describe; such a gay-
looking assembly I have hardly seen equalled. After the
meeting settled, our thoughts were turned more to what
was under the hats than to what the hats were covered
with, and the feeling that souls were precious possessed
our minds. J. E. R. rose the second time and addressed
the young people in a tender manner, the drift of his

Age 67 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 367
concern being that they might not be conforme3"to the
world but transformed in the spirit of their mind. He
also spoke of the offices of the Saviour. I also had free
dom in expressing what I had to offer.
Fifth month 30. A man met me on the street after
the meeting and said: 'Have you a book of your ser
mons that you could let me have?" "No," I told him,
"but if he wanted a book stating the principles of Truth
as held by the Society of Friends, to which I belonged,
I would furnish him with a copy."
Sixth month 2. Was informed that President McKin
ley was to be at the opening of the Philadelphia Museum,
on Fourth street, below Walnut, in the building formerly
occupied by the Pennsylvania Railroad offices. I felt
quite disposed to avail myself of the opportunity to speak
to the head officer of our Republic. I was introduced to
him by Justice Strawbridge, and we shook each other's
hands with a warmth of feeling. I said to him, "Thou
hast the prayers of many for thy support." He re
sponded, "Thank you." I added, "Thou needs more than
human help; thou hast had of the Divine influence, and
it will be continued to thee." He again said, "Thank
you." After the interview I retired to another room and
from a window saw the President enter his carriage,
accompanied by Mayor Warwick, Doctor Pepper and
another. I was afterward told that the President said
to Justice Strawbridge that I had a good face and he
appreciated what I said to him.

368 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1897
Sixth month 30. This afternoon I attended the com
mencement exercises of the Colored Institute at Asso
ciation Hall, which was filled, about one thousand being
present. The exercises of the graduates showed a great
deal of care and thought in their preparation. After
one or two had addressed the graduates I was allowed
to speak. I stated that I was impressed with the scene
before me and compared it with what existed in our city
years ago. It was encouraging to think of the efforts
that had been successfully made for the improvement of
their people, and of the co-operation of these disposed
to take advantage of their opportunities in this part of
the land, and it was marvelous the change that had taken
place, and what wonders God had wrought. It was the
light of Christianity that operated upon the heart of
William Penn and induced him to give up what he might
enjoy in "court" life to bear witness to the offering on
Calvary, putting man in a capacity for salvation by co
operating with the spirit of Grace and Truth that came
by Jesus Christ, and to plant a colony here where men
might worship God according to the dictates of their
own conscience, the benefit of which we are enjoying in
religious toleration.
It was the light of Christianity that raised the question
in the heart of Francis Daniel Pastorius as to whether
it was right to buy and sell humanity; it was the light of
Christianity upon the mind of John Woolman. that made
him such an advocate for the freedom of the colored

Age 67 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 369
man; it was the light of Christianity that had induced
Anthony Benezet, who could have moved among princes,
to start a school for the colored people in this city and
lead such a life that a soldier said at his grave, that he
would rather be Anthony Benezet in that coffin than
George Washington in all his glory. I did not want them
to think that slavery existed only between the races ; it
had its root in the love of power and was exerted in
different lands in different ages, but through the light of
Christianity it had largely been abolished in this land,
and intemperance and other evils must give way before
that light and power.
I wished them to be impressed with the importance of
being faithful to the openings they might be favored with
in early life and to stand steadfast to their principles that
the concerns which might arise in their minds might be
signally blessed to generations after them. Our part was
to serve our generation through Holy help according to
the Divine will, that we might be prepared to join that
throng who could say that the kingdoms of this world
were to become the kingdom of our Lord and his Christ.
Seventh month 9. The meeting to-day at Arch Street
was a precious one. There was a feeling of sweetness
in our gathering together, and the thoughts were in the
right channel, as being in the secret of the Lord's pres
ence, or in his holy hand and thinking upon his great
name. When time came to close, I do not know that I
ever felt more loth to break meeting.

370 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1897
Eighth month 27. Having felt the need of a change or
a little sojourn in the sea air, on the 20th I took a trip
to Conanicut Island, where I remained a few days, and
in the meantime attended the meeting there, held in an
old meeting-house, said to be one hundred and seventy-
five years old, and nicely situated. There were about
twenty-six gathered there on this occasion. From Conan
icut I went to Providence, and made a .few visits in
Rhode Island, and thence to New Bedford, and on to
Boston, calling on Joseph and Gertrude Cartland in New-
buryport before returning home on the 26th.
Eleventh month 25. We had a large meeting at Arch
Street, after which we gathered at our home, our three
sons and their families, making sixteen present of the
name of Elkinton.
The following is from a letter that I sent to President
McKinley : Philadelphia, Twelfth month 18, 1897.
William McKinley.
Beloved President: From many whose thoughts are turned
towards thee there are many tokens doubtless communicated of
sympathy and affection, expressive of sorrowing with thee in thy
sorrow, with petitions for thy support in affliction, as also for thy
support in thy weighty responsibilities. With the many whose
thoughts are turned toward what is passing at Canton, we will
trust it will be in reverence, awaiting the pleasure of our Heav
enly Father as to whether thy honored mother shall be removed
at this time from works to rewards, or whether she may be con
tinued a little longer for the perfecting of the Divine purpose,
not only as it may concern herself but for the solemnizing effect
upon the feelings of the people at large. ... As I have
watched thy course in the last ten years or more, I have felt that

Age 67 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 371
a blessing has attended thy labors, and that in good measure
thou hast been serving thy generation according to the Divine
will. May the Lord be with thee the remainder of thy days.
No doubt if we wait on the Lord for the qualification to worship
Him and to discharge our responsibilities aright, He will honor
us with a sense of his secret presence and enable us to move
before Him and before the people with acceptance. It has been
cordial to my feelings to know of the affection thou hast mani
fested for thy mother during thy public life, and doubtless it
was the case in earlier life. If I am correctly informed, thou
hast a delicate wife, which has been my case for over forty
years. She was a native of Belmont county, Ohio. I presume
we can unite in the testimony that through the years of com
panionship that, notwithstanding the delicate frames of our com
panions, their judgment, as also their affection, has been blessed
to us. May we all be watched over for good. I thought the
language thou made use of in thy proclamation for a day of
thanksgiving gave evidence that it was issued under a measure
of right feeling; the spirit of it was good. My impression is,
that there was more than an usual degree of solemnity with
the gathering of the people that day.
I have read thy message to Congress with interest. I am
thankful for thy views on arbitration and, having been inter
ested in the welfare of the Indians, as my father before me, I
will ask for their cause to be kindly considered.
Sincerely, Joseph S. Elkinton.
Twelfth month 21. Received a letter from the private
secretary of the President, acknowledging mine with
grateful thanks, as he expressed it, for the kindly sym
pathy contained in my letter. The mother of President
McKinley died on the 19th, and his letter to me was
dated the 20th.
Twelfth month 24. Attended the funeral of Benjamin
W. Passmore, which was a large one, although the day
was cold and windy. A satisfactory solemnity overspread

372 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1898
the company. I felt that he was a man in whom the
spirit of the Lord was, and one who has left a seal in
the hearts of many.
First month 3, 1898. Having an engagement with
Jacob Naylor, I was requested to meet him in the rooms
of the Union League, where I had never been before. I
also met Thomas Gillespie there, who showed me most
of the rooms, including the library, which seemed very
nicely arranged, and, I trust, for good. I understood
J. N. to say eleven hundred people visited the rooms on
the 1st inst. I saw some men there who were of marked
character, and I trust they will use their influence for
some needed reforms.
First month 27. In our Monthly Meeting I stated that
I submitted for the consideration and judgment of the
meeting a concern to visit in gospel love the meetings
composing Burlington Quarterly Meeting; to visit some
of the public institutions, and to appoint some meetings
for Divine worship at large, as Truth might lead into
and support. The meeting was united in liberating me
for the service.
Second month 15. Took train for Trenton, where I
met Barton Thorn, who had come to go with me to see
the Governor of New Jersey, with whom we had a very
satisfactory interview, and I was introduced to a number
of state senators and officials about the capitol. The
buildings have been fitted out with an air of splendor
that I think is more than best for a good example to the

Age 68 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 373
citizens. The human mind is too much inclined to luxury.
As I contemplated holding public meetings, in company
with Jonathan E. Rhoads, in which there would, in all
probability, be great plainness in which the Truth might
be presented, especially on the subject of war, I thought
it would be better to go to the head officials and tell them
what I had in view in meeting with the people.
The Governor was interested in reading my certificate,
and said if he could help me in any way he was ready to
do it. I was afterward told that, showing my certificate
in the capitol had awakened quite an interest as being
something new; and the Governor remarked, after I
withdrew, that it did one good to be called upon by some
one who did not want an office. In the course of conver
sation I asked the Governor if he thought it a proper
thing to ask for the use of the court houses for some of
our meetings, or whether it would be better to obtain
some other rooms or places, and as he gave me to under
stand that he apprehended the latter course would be
preferable, I informed him that it would be pursued. I
felt in my own mind that as we might speak on the trials
of community, especially against war, that it might be
better not to use the legislative halls, which might cause
or provoke disturbance.
Second month 23. Went by appointment to the Re
formatory at Jamesburg, New Jersey, and on the ap
proach to it I was impressed by the beauty of the situa
tion and the planning of the buildings. There are eight

374 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1898
hundred acres of land connected with the institution.
and the farms, with the workshops, afford a field and
opportunity for the development of the faculties in agri
culture, mechanical arts, carpentering, cabinet work, car
riage building, blacksmithing, shoemaking, brushmaking,
etc., so much being carried on until it was marvelous to
see what could be done by boys. There was also a green
house. We saw a boiler house and engineering room with
dynamos, where light and heat were generated for the
whole range of buildings.
The students are divided into classes of about fifty
each, for whose accommodation there is a separate
building, with lodging-rooms, dining-rooms, schoolroom,
together with rooms for the caretakers and their families.
The whole establishment is a credit to the state, and the
children in much better condition than they would be
running loose. When we were gathered in the chapel,
all were seated in good order, and Jonathan E. Rhoads
and I had cause to be thankful for the opportunity
afforded us to express our interest and concern for them.
They were very attentive, and when the time came to
close it was not an easy matter to do, as we seemed to
be held. There was a marked solemnity under which
there was an offering of thanksgiving and pleading for
the continued extension of Divine mercy. The address
which J. E. R. made to the officers was a very remark
able one.
Third month 2. At the evening meeting, held at Bur-

Age 68 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 375
lington, N. J., I spoke on the subject of worship, and
particularly on Christ within the hope of glory, and the
reward or crown of the righteousness for those who
really love his appearing. J. E. R. was also engaged in
testimony, in the course of which he said it is a great
weakness in the church-at-large of professing Christians
that it does not bear a more faithful testimony against
war, and it is a disgrace to Christianity to be making
preparations for the destruction of the lives of our
fellow-beings. I never heard stronger language put forth
before the public; there certainly was no mincing of
matters. I suppose if we had lived one hundred years
ago we probably would have been arrested for such un
patriotic expressions as some would have considered
them. Elizabeth C. Dunn followed in supplication, in an
element of sweetness, the most crowning exercise I have
heard her express. It had a most salutary effect. She
prayed that our weak hearts might be strengthened to
bear or receive the Truth; that we might be blessed; be
blessed with forgiveness; be blessed with preservation.
Third month 16. While in Princeton I called on ex-
President Cleveland, and had an interesting interview,
in which I told him that I remembered he had given
other Friends who were with me and myself a very fair
hearing on an Indian matter, and whilst I wanted him to
know that I appreciated it, I also wished to express my
satisfaction in an article in the newspaper to the import

376 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1898
that he desired a peaceable settlement of the Cuban ques
tion, and that there should be no war over it.
He responded that instances of acknowledgment or
recognition of what I had first spoken of were rare. If
evidences of public approval were specially looked for, it
would be a thankless reward; it was the sense of doing
right and of doing good that was the true reward, to
which I replied that perseverance in the right way was
likely to be remembered from on high.
We conversed on Indian matters and then on the pres
ent crisis in which he seemed alive to the seriousness of
the present outlook. He quoted General Sherman, who
had said to him, "I detest war; war is hell; it is cruel."
Cleveland said he would be glad if the administration
could find some way out of the difficulty, for the occa
sions were exceedingly rare that war could not be
avoided. I expressed my desire that he would continue
to exercise his influence on the side of peace, and then
addressed him in a religious manner; and we parted
kindly, after I told him my mission and gave him my
certificate to read. On my way out I met with the wife
and children of Grover Cleveland, and had a pleasant
little conversation with them.
Third month 25. An essay on the disturbed condition
between our government and that of Spain, prepared by
a committee appointed to consider the subject, was
adopted by our Meeting for Sufferings and referred back
to the said committee to present a copy to the President,

Age 68 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 377
his Cabinet and members of Congress, and for such
further distribution as they might deem advisable. I
was pleased that the matter had seemed to make its way
since I first opened it in a previous meeting to invite
consideration. At the close of the meeting the committee
met, and it was decided to have the memorial printed
forthwith, and that a delegation should proceed with it
to Washington next morning. Charles Rhoads, Samuel
Morris and myself were appointed to the service.
At Washington, after some detention, we were shown
into the President's private room, where there were
probably fifty people. Our cards had been sent up to
the President previously. After a little we were shown
into the Cabinet room, where we were taken by the hand,
and the President said he recognized me and had me sit
beside him and C. R. and S. M. close by. As the
memorial was handed him, his eye caught the concluding
paragraph in reference to the desire that pacific counsel
should prevail. He said that was what he desired and
hoped for, and that his application for assistance in
feeding the suffering and starving people in Cuba had
not been responded to as he had hoped, although more
was now coming in.
When he alluded to the desire for pacific counsel to
prevail, I told him that he would have the sober part of
community with him in that course, and spoke of the
many petitions being in that direction, to which he made
a kindly response.

378 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1898
Charles Rhoads and Samuel Morris also had somewhat
to offer in a serious manner. We could hardly have
asked for greater favors, than were afforded us in our
interview. When we withdrew the private secretary
came out and congratulated us by saying we had made
out well in that interview, and he was pleased to witness
what passed. We thanked him for the service he had
rendered us. We then visited the offices of the Attorney
General and Secretary of the Navy, but they were both
out. At the office of the Secretary of State we had a
very interesting interview, and he entered into the subject
of the horrors of war in a very open manner and said
they were doing what they could to avert it.
We again went to see the Attorney General, who was
just going to the White House, but halted and gave us a
brief interview. He also said they were trying to have
things settled peacefully if it could be done consistent
with the nation's honor. Called at the office of Secretary
of Navy, and he sent word 'that he was sorry he could
not see us, as he was due at the White House, and had
to leave. We supposed there was some consultation
going on with the President. The Secretary of War was
out of town.
Third month 28. To-day's "Ledger" gives quite an
account of our visit to the President, and, aside from a
few errors, it is a pretty good one, and it contains the
pith of the memorial, which, I trust, will set other denom
inations to thinking what their duty may be in the line of

Age 68 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 379
bearing a testimony to the peaceable nature of the Re
deemer's Kingdom.
Fourth month 26. In pursuing my religious work I
visited the prison at New Brunswick, the sheriff arriving
soon after I did; and, on going into the corridor, he
called out to the prisoners that they might all come out
of their cells into the corridor, for there was a visitor
who had come to speak to them. One man called out,
"Is he a good talker?" The sheriff responded that it
might be supposed so, as the visitor had been in such
places before. The sheriff let me have it all to myself,
locked in the corridor with the prisoners all loose, but
that did not disconcert me, and we had a satisfactory
religious opportunity, and I was told I might come and
visit them whenever I felt like it.
Sixth month 23. In our Monthly Meeting I returned
my minute granted me in the First month, and made my
report in joint session as follows: Having been merci
fully sustained throughout the engagement undertaken,
I had been enabled to complete it to the relief and peace
of my mind. In the greater part of the service I was
associated with Jonathan E. Rhoads, which I considered
a special favor, because of the acceptance with which he
had been enabled to set forth the principles of Truth
before the people, and his capacity to enter into feeling
with those in confinement and solitary places. In the
latter class we found some whom we believed were near
the kingdom and in a capacity to plead for the peace of

380 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1898
Jerusalem. The meetings of Burlington Quarterly Meet
ing had been visited, some of them more than once; and
nearly all the prisons and almshouses in ten of the coun
ties of New Jersey, and a number of hospitals, religious
opportunities having been allowed either in the chapels,
assembly rooms, corridors, or from cell to cell, or from
bed to bed.
Lest the nature of the visit might be misunderstood
and what might be offered in public meetings be mis
represented to those in authority, it was thought advisable
to have interviews with public men. There were several
interviews with the Governor of New Jersey, as also
with the ex-President Cleveland and with sheriffs of the
counties. Public meetings had been held at principal
points along the leading railroads, and there were no
opportunities denied us where applications for such were
made. A precious meeting was held in one place where that
day one thousand men started off for war, and there
were fifty thousand spectators, yet it was evident there
were those who were disposed to gather into the quiet
habitation. I doubt if there has ever been in our memory
more of those, not only in the station of ministers and
those in authority, but of the sober, thoughtful class of
the community, who secretly believed that the honor of
the nation was not to be promoted by force.
J. E. Rhoads supplemented my report by saying that
on his errand he felt it to be an illustration of the benefit

Age 68 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 381
of our order and manner of proceeding with religious
concerns, and that this had been prosecuted on right
grounds. The report was accepted as being satisfactory. Before
the meetings separated I offered a petition that we might
be cared for in this our day and generation ; to be favored
to know and keep our places, and whilst not overstretch
ing our stature, yet not to shrink from baptism or make
pathways around the fire, but be kept in reverence, either
in reverently waiting upon the Lord, seeking to know of
his will or moving at his bidding; that there might be
more of those who would be found crying unto the Lord ;
that the Spirit of wisdom and understanding in the
Lord's holy fear should imbue the hearts of those in
authority throughout the land.
After this supplication a minute was made by the clerk
that after a solemnizing opportunity women Friends
withdrew. Eighth month 18. Having seen in the newspaper that
a number of returned soldiers were in the naval asylum,
I went there and obtained permission to go into the hos
pital, but saw only a few cases. One was a pleasing,
well-behaved young man, who seemed interested; and,
after obtaining liberty from the physician in charge,
showed me into the wards, where things were in good
order and quietness prevailed. My principal service,
however, seemed to be with one in charge of the wards,
who was possessed with a measure of right feeling. The

382 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1898
department for old sailors, as a home, is well kept, and
the institution might be considered a credit to the govern
ment, so far as comfort and cleanliness are concerned.

CHAPTER XIII.
Doukhobor Migration.
Twelfth month 29. I requested a joint session until I
should open a concern on my mind to meet the Douk-
hobors who, I had been informed, hafl sailed from
Batoum and were due at Halifax about the 12th of the
coming month. I wished to hold myself open for such
religious service as might be called for with that perse
cuted people, or in the neighborhood of their landing.
They are expected to stop at Halifax for a bill of health
and then proceed to St. John, where they are to take
train to Winnepeg, arrangements having been made with
the proper authorities to this effect. I did not know
what detention might be encountered in this service, nor
very definitely what service might be required at my
hands, so I thought it most prudent to have a minute so
that I could appoint meetings, either among the Douk-
hobors or others among whom my lot might be cast.
After much consideration a minute was granted.
First month 1, 1899. A cold, windy day, and our meet
ing this morning was small. I do not know that I ever
had my feelings more enlisted on behalf of the young
and rising generation.
First month 5. Left home this evening for Boston,
383

384 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1S99
where I hope to be joined by Job S. Gidley, and to pro
ceed to Halifax to meet the steamships Lake Huron and
Lake Superior carrying the Doukhobors from Batoum.
First month 8. Arrived at Halifax in company with
Job S. Gidley, who met me in Boston, and we have com
fortable quarters in the Halifax Hotel. We have been
down to visit the emigrant buildings, and were cour
teously received in the office, and also introduced to the
matron in charge. The main building was about five
hundred feet long and sixty feet wide, the lower story
of which was occupied by the offices and the reception
room, with the railroad tracks on one side so that the
cars could be loaded direct from the room. This room
had seats in it and a restaurant that furnished meals at
a moderate price. There was a large baggage room in
a separate building. In the second story of the large
building were the matron's private rooms, and, in addi
tion to a large living room, were a number of rooms with
such appointments that it might be called a well-furnished
hospital in good order. There were a few immigrant
patients in the rooms.
There being no trains going out from Halifax on
First-days, the building was pretty well filled with those
who had arrived the previous day, and gave us an oppor
tunity to have some religious service with them, after
which we returned to the hotel. Had an interview with
I. S. DeWolf, who told me he had a letter from the
manager of the Beaver line in Montreal, to allow myself

Age 69 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 385
and companion to go on board the steamships Lake Huron
and Lake Superior and have a passage on them from
Halifax to St. John. I also had letters from D. W. Camp
bell, the general manager at Montreal, addressed to Cap
tain Evans, of the Lake Huron, and Captain Taylor, of
the Lake Superior, to furnish me with passage and good
accommodations. As all the vessels coming in had been
behind time, it was calculated by those of experience that
the Lake Huron would not be in for nearly a week.
First month 12. Still no tidings of the Lake Huron,
and Job B. Gidley and I have spent the past few days in
visiting Yarmouth and Dartmouth, in the latter place
meeting with the mayor, visiting the schools and having
some religious opportunities.
First month 13. This morning we were called upon by
Prince Hillkoff and we had an exceedingly interesting
interview. He is about forty-two years of age and has a
heavy beard; but what we could see of his/face had a
sweet and tender expression in keeping with his conver
sation, mild and gentle. The relation of his experience
was most touching. I have seen Job S. Gidley face some
stern things, but he was nearly overcome with that narra
tive. In the course of conversation Prince Hillkoff said
the Society of Friends could not do a better thing than
give the Doukhobors a translation of Barclay's Apology
in the Russian language. He had a copy given him by
John Bellows, and said there the whole matter is laid
down plain.

386 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1899
First month 14. This afternoon quite a council of offi
cials convened in the reading room of the Halifax Hotel,
with whom we met : James Smart, the deputy minister of
the interior from Winnepeg; W. J. White, the immigra
tion agent from Montreal; Prince Hillkoff; Dr. Ingalls,
from Winnepeg ; Dr. Montizambert, superior of all quar
antine agencies, from Ottawa; T. S. DeWolf, the agent
of the Beaver line, and two or three more. Most of these
men expect to sail on the Lake Huron to St. John, where
there is a committee of twelve to welcome the Doukho
bors and assist in the transition to the cars. During the
evening a number of us were engaged in interesting con
versation, in the course of which Dr. Montizambert told
how he had been impressed in witnessing the death scenes
of the religious and irreligious; how the unbelievers
would be in agony of spirit and in great fear, whilst the
righteous retain sweetness and quietness. They that
have seen what I have — the unbelievers approaching their
end in terror and believers having had no fear of death —
must believe there is something in religion. "Yes," said
James Smart, "I believe in religion." These were striking
testimonies, and surely a port physician, whose place is
to go amongst all kinds of disease, has unusual opportuni
ties of observation; and what a favor it is to have men
in appointment that are righteous men themselves and
bear testimony to the power of religion ! We conversed
by the fireside until twelve o'clock, when the lights went
out and we retired.

Age 69 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 387
First month 18. This evening there was still an en
largement to the immigration circle in the reading room,
and it proved a very satisfactory occasion, the conversa
tion being on serious subjects and the providence there
might be in the representatives of the different provinces
thus being brought together, and several have expressed
their satisfaction in our being with them.
First month 20. Dr. Ingalls, the representative from
Winnepeg, thought that he must take the morning train
for home, and conversed on the subject with Job S.
Gidley; but the latter preached resignation, which, being
in keeping with the prevailing sense of the circle, the
doctor subsided. The deputy minister of the interior has
expressed his determination to stay, saying he will follow
the example of the Friends. He told me last evening
that the railroad company had already been paid the
passage money from St. John, and that the government
had allowed five thousand dollars for the benefit of the
immigrants after their arrival at their destination, and
there was a discretion given to draw on the government
funds for ten thousand dollars more, if necessary. There
has been nothing, he said, in the history of Canada that
had awakened such general interest and they had en
deavored to keep it up by articles given to the press.
This afternoon, about 2 P. M., word was received that
the Lake Huron was signaled, which was a great relief.
T. S. DeWolf came to tell us of the arrangement for us
to go down on the steam tug following the boat with the

388 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1899
quarantine officials. As we approached and came up
opposite the windward side, it was a wonderful sight ; the
children in the front and the length of the ship on both
decks made one imposing sight. Most of them had on
sheepskin coats with the wool inside, the girls in front
of the women and the boys in front of the men; and all
joined in a subdued but melodious and distinct tone in
chanting words which Prince Hillkoff afterward trans
lated for me. It was a very affecting scene, and the
spirit of thanksgiving and prayer covered my mind. Job
S. Gidley broke forth with the salutation in a clear strong
voice, "Welcome Doukhobors." It was called out by one
of the quarantine officials that Prince Hillkoff and his
staff and the deputy minister might come on board and
none others. Being given to understand that J. S. G. and
I were considered of the deputy minister's staff, we were
not slow in availing ourselves of the opportunity. With
the continued feeling of the spirit of prayer, together
with heartfelt gratitude that the life of Captain Evans
had been preserved through all, I gave expression on the
bended knee to my exercise. The report in the Halifax
Herald stated that "Prince Hillkoff and the two Friends
were the centre of an animated group. Prince Hillkoff
was impetuously kissed by the Doukhobors. This exhi
bition of exuberance of joy lasted but a few moments, for
their heads were uncovered and the voice of J. S. Elkin
ton was heard in prayer, giving thanks for continued
mercies in earnest tones. The Psalm singing ceased when

Age 69 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 389
the prayer began to ascend to the Throne of Grace."
The translation of their offering in chorus, given me by
Prince Hillkoff is as follows :
"Know all men. God is with us. He has carried us
through. We uplift our voice and sing his praise. Let
all people hear and join us in our praise of the Almighty.
They that planned our ruin did not succeed. We never
feared them because God was with us and gave us
strength. Our Lord has strength to save us ; why should
we fear ? They that put their trust in him are never for
saken. They that do not know Him now shall know
Him hereafter. The Light shines in the darkness and
will dispel it."
I felt that if I ever heard the voice of thanksgiving
and melody from human lips, I did on that notable
occasion. The time on board was short before orders were given
for all visitors except quarantine officers to go on shore.
I had a little interview with Captain Evans, and gave him
my letter addressed to him and requesting that I should
be granted a passage from Halifax to St. John. Dr.
Montezambert did not think there was sufficient cause
to justify the detention of the vessel. There had been
one case of measles that had been isolated with its
parents and ten deaths, chiefly among very young chil
dren and old people from ordinary causes, and one birth
on the passage. There were about two thousand passen
gers on board.

390 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1899
First month 21. About 4 P. M. the summons came,
and we gathered up our baggage and made our way to
the landing at quarantine. The passengers had not nearly
all returned to the vessel. A large number were on the
docks and some coming down the hill.
First month 22. First-day. The day was spent in
religious opportunities with groups of the Doukhobors
and in listening to some of their expressions, Prince
Hillkoff interpreting and making way for me. J. S. G.
became a pronounced case of seasickness and had to
retreat. In one case a response was made by an old man,
who said I reminded him of the visit of two Friends in
Russia in the year 1818. I told him they were Stephen
Grellett and Daniel Wheeler ; I had seen them both. "I
saw them, I saw them," he said, "and now I see you as
another messenger from the Lord."
First month 23. Many reported seasick. I am glad
that I was able to go amongst the people yesterday, for I
had to make a hasty departure from the breakfast table
this morning, but able to be out again by noon. Eleven
marriages are reported. We pulled up aside of the dock
at St. John about 4 P. M., and it seemed as if there were
thousands to greet us. Disembarkation commenced, there
being two hundred and fifty tons of baggage and two
thousand and eighty-four people. The Doukhobors
"worked like beavers" in getting their baggage, etc.,
unloaded and again loaded on the cars; but to get the
freight train of fifteen cars and five passenger trains all

Age 69 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 391
off in good shape was an exercise. The officials seemed
equal to their position, and Job S. Gidley and I stayed
and watched them get under way until the fourth train
had started, when we felt it most prudent to retire, as
it was then 3.30 A. M. and only one train more to get
off, on which Prince Hillkoff was going. There was a
committee of women on hand to look after the comfort
of the Doukhobor women and children, giving the latter
little bags of cakes, candy, doughnuts and oranges.
First month 25. The day was spent in visiting the
general city hospital — the asylum for insane and a few
calls on officials and others we knew to be interested in
the Doukhobors.
First month 26. Crossed the Bay of Fundy to Digby,
where we visited William England and wife.
First month 27. Arrived at our quarters in the Halifax
Hotel and found our friend, T. S. DeWolf, who was
interested in our account of our experience with the
Doukhobors on the passage to St. John and seeing them
started on the trains.
The Lake Superior arrived so late in the day that it is
not known when she will start again, so we must wait
until morning for our summons. Returning to the hotel
after a trip to Halifax on the Beaver line we met with
several officials, who announced that the steamship Lake
Superior had smallpox on board and was to be quar
antined, and there was no probability of any visitors
being allowed. The case of smallpox had proved fatal,

392 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1899
and six other deaths from various causes. Prince Hill
koff and William White had come on from Ottawa, and,
under the circumstances, were going to return or go to
Winnepeg in the morning. This is a great disappoint
ment. J. S. G. and I have consulted, and we will prob
ably return home and await notification of the time the
Lake Superior will be out of quarantine.
First month 28. Prince Hillkoff and William White
were on the same train with us, and the day was spent
in religious conversation with Prince Hillkoff until we
separated, J. S. G. and I taking a sleeping-car for Boston,
and the others one for Ottawa and Winnepeg.
Second month 13. Received a telegram this morning,
stating that the steamship Superior will be released from
quarantine on the 17th.
Second month 14. A very heavy snowstorm continues ;
all railroads are reported to be blocked. I went to the
railroad office in the Bourse and was told they were sell
ing no tickets and no trains would go out during the
morning, but it was intimated that four locomotives and
two passenger cars had started out with some of the
officers on board. I returned home and had my valise
packed, and made my way to the station, where I suc
ceeded in getting a ticket as far as Trenton, with the
hope there would be a New York train to follow. Left
for Trenton at 1.50 P. M. and arrived at 4.45, having a
wonderful ride through the snow and huge drifts, through
which a passage had been cut by the engines, plows and

Age 69 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 393
their forces of men. At 5.45 P. M. along came a New
York train from Philadelphia, and it looked as if it had
broken through a new path, worse than the one I came
on. We found rather less snow after leaving Trenton,
and arrived in Jersey City about 7.30, and have taken
a train for Boston, where I hope to arrive to-morrow
morning. Second month 16. Job S. Gidley joined me yesterday
evening, and we are now on our way to Halifax.
Second month 17. Arrived at Halifax last evening,
and at the hotel this morning we have met several who
are interested in the Doukhobors and whom we saw on
our previous trip. We went to the office of the Beaver
line and were cordially welcomed by T. S. DeWolf, who
introduced us to Captain Taylor, of the Lake Superior.
He seems like a very pleasant man, and when I handed
him my letter of introduction from D. W. Campbell he
smiled and said he would try and make us comfortable,
but could not promise good weather, and asked if I were
a good sailor? I said I thought the weather would be
about the same for me as for him, and with a little more
pleasantry I withdrew so as not to detain him, as he had
his clearance papers to get. William T. White strongly
advises me to go with one trainload as far as Ottawa
to see the deputy minister and minister of the interior, to
consult with them regarding the best way to help the
Doukhobors. He assures me of a free pass from St.

394 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1899
John to Ottawa and back to Montreal, which I have
decided to accept.
Second month 18. Was notified yesterday afternoon
that the tug was waiting, so we hastened on board, where
we found some of the officials and Count Tolstoi's son.
We heard that the city council had visited the Lake
Superior in a body. We were not long in getting aboard
the steamship and the gangplank was lifted, and we were
heading for St. John. We visited around among the
Doukhobors, holding religious opportunities with them
much the same as on the previous voyage. Captain
Taylor gave similar testimony to that of Captain Evans,
of the order and good behavior of the passengers through
out the trip. Captain E. told us that he did not hear a
quarrel or cross word on the way over, either among the
people or the children. Once, after addressing about
forty of their representative men, Serguis Tolstoi inter
preted their response to me as follows: "We trust in
Christ; we thank Christ that He sends us men to visit
us from the Society of Friends." Job S. Gidley's minis
terial engagements have impressed me that he had Divine
help. Second month 19. We arrived at the landing stage at
St. John near 4 P. M. The public were not admitted
into the warehouse this time with the exception of the
women's committee, who had provisions for the children.
Job S. Gidley decided to take train for home on account
of the illness of his wife, so I saw him off, and then

Age 69 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 395
returned to the vessel and found one trainload had been
started. Had an interesting interview with the mayor,
who was on hand; also with the chief of police. Men
and women worked prodigiously, and five trains were
filled with passengers and the sixth train with baggage
by 2 A. M. In the car into which I have been invited are
Captain Taylor, who goes to report to the general man
ager of the Beaver line at Montreal; Frank Pedley,
superintendent; Sergius Tolstoi, Herbert Archer and
William T. White. This car is fitted up for the officials
and we have comfortable quarters.
Second month 20. I spent considerable time in each of
the passenger cars. On arrival at Ottawa, William T.
White, Frank Pedley and I left the train and learned
that all the preceding trains had passed through in good
order. In passing through one of the trains on our way
out I saw the milk, bread and cheese being eaten with a
relish. Being pressed to partake, the cheese was found
to be very good, and the bread did fairly well ; but I have
no intention of sending to St. John for a supply for my
family at home. In Ottawa I visited the government
officials in their offices, also the controller of mounted
police of the Northwestern territories. I was taken to
the residence of the Governor General, which is situated
in a beautiful tract of eighty acres, and I would call it
a palace, but some called it a modest affair, and perhaps
it is to royal eyes. As we drove under the archway an
officer allowed us to enter the hall. Then there was

396 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1899
another, dressed as a soldier, to show us into the recep
tion room. There was one, of whom I asked if he was
the Governor General, but he said "No." He tood my
card and returned, saying the Governor General wanted
to know the subject to be laid before him. I was taken
and ushered into the private office, where I received a
pleasant greeting and was given a full hearing by the
Governor General, who appeared interested in all I had
to say regarding the Doukhobors, and expressed his
pleasure with the interview. 1 am told that when he goes
down to open Parliament he goes in great state. I am
thankful to say no official in Canada has declined seeing
me with my hat on, although the hat had been described
in the papers as unique.
Second month 22. Arrived home about 8 P. M.
Second month 23. A good meeting at Arch Street, and
the business meeting was opened in joint session, in which
I returned my minute granted in the Twelfth month, with
a report of the service I had undertaken.
Fifth month 7. I left home again, this time for Quebec
to meet the third shipload of Doukhobors, expected to
arrive on the steamship Lake Superior in a few days.
Fifth month 8. Arrived at Quebec and, on going to
the office of the Beaver line of steamships here, learned
that the steamship Lake Superior was sighted last eve
ning, all in good health and expected here about noon
to-morrow. The Lake Superior is supposed to have half
a cargo of freight and ten hundred and thirty passengers,

Age 69 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 397
which are those Doukhobors who were sent to Cyprus,
but the climate not agreeing with them there, they are
coming to join their brethren in this country. Have met
Herbert Archer, who has lately returned from the north
west where the Doukhobors are getting settled, and he
says the houses they have built are of logs, thirty feet
long, twenty feet wide, board roofs; two windows in
each end, berths along the sides, a big stove in the middle
and calculated to accommodate fifty or sixty persons. A
goodly quantity of potatoes is reported to have been
purchased by the government last fall for seed. It is
expected the steamship Lake Huron will have left
Batoum on the 7th of this month with two thousand
more Doukhobors for Quebec.
Fifth month io. It was a beautiful evening and, as
we were promenading, a rocket from the vessel went up,
and a response or salute by firing of a gun announced
the vessel at hand. There was a feeble chant compared
with the first heard on the Lake Huron, but still it could
be heard, and there are not so many. It was very pleasant
to be saluted by Captain Taylor. I said to an officer I
desired to speak a few words, and queried whether it
should be from the wharf or on the bridge. He an
swered, "On the bridge." So, when the gangplank was
laid, an interpreter was sent on the bridge with me.
There was a marked silence when I was through with
my address and petition, and a very kindly response
was made from the deck. It was about 11 P. M. when

398 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1899
they began to unload the boat, and I thought it would have
been more comfortable to have waited for daylight, but
the trains were there waiting, so the business went on.
William Bellows, who had come over with them, soon
made himself known, with whom a pleasant acquaint
ance began. The passengers from Cyprus showed the
effects of suffering on their countenances, and did not
seem as strong physically as the others. As William
Bellows decided to go on the first trainload, I concluded
to keep him company as far as Ottawa, having a free
pass, and thus had opportunity of mingling with the
passengers. Fifth month ii. While I was in the station at Ottawa
the second train came in, which gave me an opportunity
of passing through it before it started. None of the cars
seemed cold and I had a pleasant time with some of the
little boys.
Fifth month 13. At 4.35 I took the train for Montreal,
homeward bound, and after making a few visits by the
way, arrived at home in time for tea this evening.
At a Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadelphia, held Fifth
month 25, 1899 :
Joseph S. Elkinton informed us that with Divine permission
and the approval of this meeting, he proposed to meet the steam
ship "Lake Huron" at Quebec in the course of the coming two
weeks, with 2,300 of the persecuted Russians, and to proceed
with these passengers to their destination in the Canadian Prov
inces. Also to hold religious meetings as might seem called
for at his hands with the Doukhobors, or others among whom his
lot might be cast, in Canada, in their settlements, or on the way

Age 69 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 399
going or coming. On considering this weighty engagement,
much unity was expressed with this service and we liberate
Joseph S. Elkinton to perform it in such heavenly wisdom as
may be afforded, desiring that the Lord may answer it to his
own praise. Joseph S. Elkinton is a minister in unity with us.
From the Minutes. Thomas Elkinton,
Anna Walton, Clerks.
Ephraim Smith, Correspondent.
Sixth month 3. William Evans and I left Philadelphia
yesterday on our journey to Canada, and arrived at
Quebec this P. M. The steamship Lake Huron has not
yet been heard from.
Sixth month 7. The past few days were spent in
visiting public institutions, Parliament Buildings, Young
Men's Christian Association, where we had religious
opportunities ; also visited some public officials. After
dinner we packed up and went to the immigration land
ing, and a number of us arrived there about the same
time; among others Prince Hillkoff, to whom we gave a
warm greeting. As the afternoon was passing away, some
one remarked the river was very rough with a strong
east wind, and he did not think the vessel would be in
to-day. But the next announcement was something more
significant than rough waters and an east wind. A yellow
flag was announced on the Lake Huron and a telegram
from Dr. Montizambert to Frank Pedley read, "De
tained." Another telegram followed, "Twenty-one days,"
and it did not take much of a prophet to interpret this
as quarantine. We returned to the hotel for the

400 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1899
night, Prince Hillkoff promising to call in the morn
ing and report the situation more fully. It was finally
decided that Prince Hillkoff, William Evans and myself
start this evening for Winnepeg, stopping off at Mon
treal by the way. We learned before starting that there
is one case of smallpox on board the Lake Huron — a
child. The two Doukhobors, who came on with Prince
Hillkoff to meet the ship, were allowed, after earnest
pleadings, to go to their fellow-countrymen and remain
in quarantine with them. William Evans and I drafted
an address to them, which Prince Hillkoff kindly trans
lated and forwarded. We arrived at Winnepeg this
morning. Sixth month io. The trains to Yorkton only run on
Seventh- and Third-days, so we will have a few days to
spend in Winnepeg.
Sixth month 13. Have met with Peter Jansen while
in Winnepeg.
We have left Winnepeg and are on our way to York-
ton. We have been from home eleven days and not seen
eleven Doukhobors until to-day, when we saw some
working beside the railroad. They seemed to have a nice
outfit, with special cars for cooking, dining and sleeping.
On our arrival at Yorkton a large gathering awaited us,
among them a goodly number of Doukhobors, some of
whom seized our baggage and led us into the hotel nearby.
Sixth month 14. As we came out of our rooms this
morning onto the balcony a pretty sight met our eyes—

Age 69 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 401
about one hundred tents holding nearly one thousand
of the Cyprus Doukhobors. Prince Hillkoff was holding
a council with them regarding their getting settled on
their lands. A telegram had kindly been sent here for
the officials to see that Williams Evans and myself had
suitable and comfortable outfits as well as conveyances
and drivers provided for our trip through the Doukhobor
villages. We have held a meeting with those here at
Yorkton and had a very touching appeal made to us by the
women that we endeavor to get their husbands and sons
out of exile and transported to this country. William
Evans answered by saying, "We will carry your message
to our friends and do what we can to enable your friends
and relatives to get to you."
Sixth month 15. Prince Hillkoff showed us two topo
graphical maps that he has drawn us and informed us
that we are to start to-morrow morning with an outfit
that is complete for five days' journey.
Sixth month 16. We started off this A. M. with two
teams, one to a light-running wagon, in which were
Prince Hillkoff and driver in front seat and William
Evans and myself in back seat. The second was our
baggage wagon, containing our baggage, a new tent
with equipment, blankets, robes and provisions for men
and beasts. One of the Doukhobors accompanied the
driver on the second wagon. The mercury was about
55°. The mosquitoes appeared before we pitched our
tent for the night and were an innumerable company,

402 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1899
twenty to the square inch some one ventured to remark.
We tied our heads up, but even then our faces and necks
were swollen from their numerous attacks. This was
an all-day onset and one of the worst of the season. We
rode along pretty cheerfully until we came to a broken-
down bridge, but we succeeded in getting safely over or
through the stream. Later, in trying to get our baggage
wagon out of a slough, I was thrown over into it. I had
my dust coat on and came off better than might be ex
pected, and succeeded in showing the men a better way
of getting the wagon out. One of the men remarked if
I was down a little while before, I was top up now.
After things were reloaded we proceeded until we came
to another broken bridge, but none of us were willing to
venture fording that stream, so drove along the bank
through underbrush until finally we discovered another
bridge, which we crossed and, to our joy, saw a house up
on the bank. Here we were kindly received and informed
we were six miles from the nearest Doukhobor village.
We camped for the night.
Having no sloughs to cross we made much better time
and reached the Verigin settlement. Whilst the prince
was engaged with the business men I found a small boy
who could speak a little English, and we visited the tents.
Thus we proceeded from settlement to settlement through
a sparsely-settled country; during our visits at the vil
lages, Prince Hillkoff transacting business and giving
advice to the men and we endeavoring to give sympathy

Age 69 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 403
and comfort to the afflicted and holding many precious
religious opportunities in the homes and collectively.
We visited the sick and made donations to particularly
needy or suffering cases. Many little tokens of their
workmanship were presented to us.
Sixth month 21. We arrived at Yorkton about 6 P. M.
last evening, and William Evans feels that he must start
homeward this morning, but I do not feel clear to leave
just yet.
William Bellows is here and will accompany me
through the colony of Doukhobors. A pleasant incident
occurred this morning when a company of Doukhobors
came to the hotel asking for a portion of the Russian
Testaments that they understood had arrived, and Wil
liam Bellows had the satisfaction of handing them out.
Sixth month 22. After some delay William Bellows
and I started on our journey among the remaining vil
lages that had not been visited. Whilst it was in a
different direction and over different trails, the experience
was much the same as regards the traveling. When it
came to lodgings they had a different plan from that
which prevails in hotels and other places of entertain
ment. The bedstead was about three feet long and
seven feet wide, and about four feet from the floor, so
that we could put our things underneath if we chose to
do so. Candles were not in use, but after sundown,
which was about ten P. M., a piece of twisted paper was
lighted and a stool placed in front of a corner of a shelf

404 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1899
that had been fitted up with genuine kindness, and in I
crawled and William Bellows after me.
Sixth month 27. We have spent five days traveling
among the Doukhobor settlements and are safely back
at Yorkton.
Sixth month 28. I have taken passage from Yorkton
to Winnepeg.
Seventh month 2. On arrival in Quebec went to the
immigration building this morning and was kindly given
the freedom of the house.
Seventh month 3. Dr. Montizambert came into the
immigration building this morning and gave me a pleasant
greeting. He said there had been no deaths from small
pox. Prince Hillkoff also came in.
Had a pleasant sail down to the quarantine quarters
and rode back on the boat with the Doukhobors who had
been released. We approached the landing about 9 P. M.
and were all safely landed. Feeling somewhat tired I did
not wait to see them take the cars, but retired to my room.
Seventh month 6. Took the train and in due season
arrived in Montreal. As I was on my way to take the
train for Ottawa a soldier was coming down the hill,
somewhat under the influence of liquor, I judged, by his
language and the way he reeled. As he was passing he
drove into me with such a square blow in front that it
was a wonder it did not knock me down or break my
ribs, but my chest felt it for some time. The young man
carrying my valise told him he ought to be ashamed of

Age 69 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 405
himself, whereupon he turned around and used very pro
fane language. I concluded to take no notice of the act
and passed on my way.
Seventh month 7. Having transacted some business
with the officials here at Ottawa I believe I am now clear
to leave these parts.
Seventh month 16. Made visits at Bloomfield, Canada,
New Bedford and Nantucket on my way home, arriving
in Philadelphia this morning, going to Malvern to join
my family after meeting.
Seventh month 28. Made my report to the Monthly
Meeting held in joint session, where I gave a somewhat
detailed account of my trip to Canada.
Tenth month 24. Left home in company with William
B. Harvey to visit the Doukhobors in their respective
villages in the Northwest.
Twelfth month 29. At Winnepeg we had the offer of
an interpreter to go with us to Yorkton through the
villages of the north and south colonies.
Tenth month 31. The train we took this morning was
considerably late, and had four carloads of Doukhobors.
We were joined by our interpreter, Frederick Leonhardt,
who informed us that he had been married about a week.
He speaks German, as well as Russian and English, and
having made several journeys among the settlements, he
is supposed to be conversant with the roads and trails.
The train was considered too heavy, so two of the cars
of Doukhobors were left at Portage La Prairie for

406 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1899
another engine. We held religious opportunities with
the Doukhobors on board the train in groups. Our inter
preter told us he spent three months with the Douk
hobors and never saw a quarrel among the children and
no breach of harmony among the older ones, which made
a deep impression upon him. We have arrived at York-
ton. Eleventh month i. After breakfast went to the ware
house and saw a lot of flour that had been bought by
W. F. McCreary, and behold, there was the second
shipment of goods from Philadelphia; my next errand
was with agent James Crerar about the distribution of
goods. A telegram was received from W. F. McCreary
to the import that the request .for the exemption from
duty on all the gifts from our friends would be granted,
which is quite a boon. Our work is deeply exercising,
but as the weather is fine we felt best satisfied to improve
the opportunity and move on.
Eleventh month 2. We arrived at the first Doukhobor
village about noon, when we had dinner, using our own
food, which was nicely set out for us in one of the
Doukhobor houses. The village contained one hundred
and forty-seven people, and we had touching interviews
with some of them. Later, as we visited the villages,
William B. Harvey would gather statistics as to their
numbers and needs and condition, and I would visit the
homes and be joined by W. B. H. when he had obtained
his information. We were always most hospitably re-

Age 69 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 407
ceived and entertained. The children call me "Grand
father," and at the sight of me run around and call the
other children to come.
Eleventh month 7. It was pretty dark when we ar
rived at the village Michailofka last evening, and lodged
at Ivan Ivan's, who was one of the first to come over
to select the spot for settlement. Whilst at supper word
went forth and we had a full house.
Eleventh month 8. Daylight showed us a row of six
houses in course of construction along the street. We
are told there is to be representation from the different
villages belonging to the north colony to meet to-morrow
to form an organization or government among them
selves. Eleventh month 9. The men from the different vil
lages were heard and statistics taken. In going through
the villages thus far we have found several cases of
sickness and much to draw on our sympathies, but there
is cause for thankfulness for the cheerful spirit mani
fested among the people who have so little to begin with.
Assistance has been rendered those we have visited who
seemed in great need. Much has been done since I was
last here in the improvement of their surroundings. We
have had many precious religious meetings in the various
settlements. Eleventh month 12. This village, Petrofka, seems to
be the most prosperous village of any yet visited. Some
of the people can speak a little" English and the women

408 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1899
have prepared some good cakes for breakfast. I was
favored with the precedence of a berth on top of the
oven last night. William B. Harvey was beside me, but
being over the centre, when the fire was renewed early
in the morning, he was for seeking cooler quarters. After
breakfast we visited all the houses and found them filled
with inmates, some very bright people among them. In
one house we saw an oven in one corner where some
baking was going on and a horse in a little pen in an
opposite corner. One house was pretty large and well
finished both inside and out, and equipped with a pretty
full supply of furniture. Some of the homes are "dug
outs," plastered inside and having two windows in the
ends to admit light and ventilation.
Eleventh month 13. Last night a cat came into our
sleeping berth and was told to go to the next neighbor, but
instead of doing that it went to our provision box and
feasted on our canned beef. At Fort Pelly the dogs were
interested in our provision box and made a general clear
ance of contents so that we had to be given a new supply.
In gathering the people together for religious service the
house was packed and the children peeping out from
every nook and corner. I had the question asked if the
children recognized me; one little girl answered "quar
antine." Thus we passed from one village to another,
meeting with much the same experience and, amidst all,
we have much to be thankful for. On being asked if I

Age 69 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 409
might write to Friends in England that they felt hopeful,
they said, "Yes," for they had their freedom.
Eleventh month 15. In the village Petrofka Orlofka
we had a warm greeting from the "Patriarch" Ivan
Machartoff. After dinner the people gathered around
us and I said we would first listen to what they had to
tell us. Ivan Machartoff said that they, like us, prayed
to the same Saviour, to which I responded that there was
nothing we would rather tell our friends at home. He
then went on with a further testimony for Jesus Christ,
and he made allusion again to the time when he saw
Stephen Grellet in 1818. I alluded to the pleasure it
gave me when he, Ivan Machartoff, was asked at York-
ton by a Methodist minister if they taught their children
and he called his little grandson, aged about six years,
who repeated the ten commandments without faltering;
and we encouraged the teaching of the children in that
way as being in keeping with the Lord's command to
those who lived long ago, that as they walked by the
way and as they sat by the fireside, they should speak of
the doings of the Lord.
Eleventh month 15. At several houses at which we
have lodged and visited, it has been remarkable what the
children have been able to recite from memory.
Eleventh month 16. We have returned to Yorkton and
arrived in good season, as it is the right time to have a
say in the distribution of the three or four carloads of
goods that have arrived.

410 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1899
Eleventh month 21. Left Yorkton for Winnepeg yes
terday morning and have now arrived about 4 P. M.
Eleventh month 23. We have started for Prince Albert
district, our interpreter, Frederick Leonhardt, accom
panying us. We were furnished with free passes to
Duck Lake.
Eleventh month 24. Arrived at Saskatoon and found
the agent had been instructed to look after our comfort,
and he insisted upon my taking his fur-lined coat for the
rest of the journey, and to oblige him I accepted it.
After some exercise on account of our provision box
having disappeared, the larder has been replenished by
William B. Harvey and the agent, and we are in readi
ness to start out to-morrow morning.
Eleventh month 25. We are again on the move and
have seen five antelopes during our ride to-day. We
visited one village and it was marvellous what had been
accomplished with the means at command.
Twelfth month 1. Have arrived at Winnepeg on our
return from visiting what settlements we could in Prince
Albert district, and have enjoyed reading the letters from
home, found waiting for us. Whilst I have been out on
a business trip, yet there is but One, who knows the
closeness of the siege and measure of depth of earnest
ness with which I have hoped for the blessing at home.
We left Winnepeg this P. M.
Twelfth month 3. Reached Ottawa at 2.30, where I

Age 69 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 411
have been invited to make some social calls. William
B. Harvey felt best satisfied to start for his home.
Twelfth month 5. Came to Toronto to visit some in
the cause of the Doukhobors.
Twelfth month 6. Left Toronto last evening and am
now on my way to visit Tunesassa.
Twelfth month 7. Have enjoyed the sight of the hills
and landscape, together with the school and its sur
roundings. If it should prove my last visit here, it will
be a pleasant retrospect.
Twelfth month 11. Arrived at home in time for
dinner. First month 29, 1900. I felt a drawing to the meeting
of colored ministers, where they discussed a paper, which
had been produced at their last meeting, justifying war,
but was not finally acted upon at that time. The expres
sion to-day was against it. I was allowed to express my
exercise and called to mind that the appearance of Jesus
Christ was heralded by the anthem "Peace on earth."
Third month 20. Between Doukhobor correspondence,
committees and other engagements I have had little time
for writing my notes the past few months, but the time
has been an eventful one. Our meetings have been
favored seasons in which there have been some striking
and pointed communications fraught with instruction
and an evidence that the Lord was still mindful of the
remnant of his people, inspiring his servants to commu
nicate that with which they were entrusted to edification.

412 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1900
The meetings of our important committees have been
clothed with a measure of solemnity that left a savor on
the mind that we have been owned in our work. In our
Meeting for Sufferings, held on the 16th, we were bap
tized together, and some capacity given to consider the
condition of both Church and State.
Fourth month 3. Left home for Ottawa, having a
desire to know more definitely from some of the officials
as to how the Doukhobors had stood the winter and
whether any had perished, and also concluded to take in
Tunesassa on my way, so as to be at the closing exercise
of the school.
Fourth month 7. After an interesting visit at Tune
sassa proceeded to Ottawa, where I arrived 6.30 this
A. M., stopping at Toronto on the way to make a few
calls on Doukhobor business.
Most of the day was spent visiting government officials
and others who could give information regarding the
condition of the Doukhobors, which seemed to be mostly
satisfactory, or as good as could be expected. Left
Ottawa for Montreal, where I hope to make good con
nections for New York and Philadelphia.
Sixth month 13. Word has been received that our
aunt Phebe Elkinton has passed away.
Sixth month 18. We had an interesting and memorable
meeting of the Committee on the Willitts Trust this A. M.,
all the members present. Charles Rhoads said he had
felt throughout the meeting a feeling of devotion. He

Age 70 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 413
appeared on his knees, expressing gratitude for the har
mony and comfort we had had in the meetings of the
committee and prayed for ability to enter rightly into
feeling with the colored people, with wisdom and guid
ance to procure suitable reading matter that the work to
which we have given attention, might be blessed. He
then interceded for the dear brothers who were going
out on an embassy amongst another class, who had
suffered persecution for the testimony of a good con
science; that their going out might be blessed to them
and, if consistent with the Divine will, be brought back
to us. It was a sweet, loving prayer, touching to our
feelings. He, in the courage of it, said, "We love our
brothers very dearly."
Sixth month 18. This afternoon I left home with a
view of accompanying Jonathan E. Rhoads on a visit to
the Doukhobors in the Northwest Territory of Canada,
he having obtained a minute from his Monthiy Meeting
liberating him for that service, and to attend to such
religious service on the way going and returning as he
might feel required of him.
Eighth month 19. We arrived at Montreal this A. M.
and this P. M. have taken train for Ottowa where we
arrived this evening.
Sixth month 20. After interviews with the government
officials we took 1.25 train this P. M. for Winnepeg and
thence to Yorkton.
Sixth month 24. It was a long dusty ride from Portage

414 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1900
La Prairie to Yorkton where we arrived about midnight
in what is called a mixed train. On leaving the car my
hand was quickly taken by that of the interpreter, Fred
erick Leonhardt, who had a number of Doukhobors with
him so we had quite a greeting; our baggage was soon
taken and carried to the residence of Frederick Leon
hardt where his wife gave us a warm welcome.
Sixth month 25. There is a small Indian camp opposite
the residence of Frederick Leonhardt, composed of about
a dozen men, women and children with their teams.
Jonathan E. Rhoads observed them fixing up a tent in
such a way that he said in Australia it was considered a
sure sign of rain when the natives of that country began
fixing up in that style. We had both lightning and
thunder with rain and rain enough to make the change
in temperature quite as much as we want. We have seen
an interesting sight of Doukhobors on good looking
horses carrying firewood, two of them carrying a good
sized tree across their shoulders. They appeared in some
measure to be adopting the English style of dress. The
women are doing some business in gathering Senega root
which can now be gathered off the prairies.
Sixth month 26. We had thirty mile ride yesterday
over the prairie to the village Terpenie arriving about
8.30 P. M. We had time before dark to enter all their
eighteen finished and occupied houses, there being six or
seven more in the course of construction. Both the
finished and unfinished houses have a vegetable or flower

Age 70 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 415
garden with plants growing in beds that give evidence of
considerable attention, and some have planted small trees
near the edge of their front yards. As the houses are
built in two rows with a wide avenue between, the future
looks promising for a pretty appearance of things. The
inside of the houses look very clean and great credit is
due for what has been done in such short time.
Ivan (John) Marchatoff lives in this village, and I had
him relate to J. E. R. what he remembered of Stephen
Grellet when he visited Russia. While they were gath
ered around us, Jonathan E. Rhoads told them he thought
of Abraham, who has told of the far country that was to
be for his children and children's children, and God had
brought their children (the Doukhobors) through and
had a place for them here, and as Abraham had kept the
faith, and it was accounted to him for righteousness,
even so if they kept their faith and trust in God who had
done great things for them, they would surely know of
his blessing and protection. Ivan Marchatoff joined us
and proceeded with us through the other villages.
Sixth month 28. On arrival at one of the villages,
while dinner was being prepared we visited several houses
and in one where we dined there is a very interesting
case of a young woman, who had suffered greatly in
Russia; she is gifted both intellectually and in the
handling of the needle. She and another girl were stolen
from their homes by the Tartars and at night were tied
to a fence with their hands fastened behind them. They

416 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1900
managed to get loose and she with her brother and her
companion in captivity succeeded in joining the Douk
hobors as they were leaving Russia. The brother was
much more decided than their father, for the Truth, and
was locked in a cellar, the intention being to leave him
without food, but the sister and other children continued
to find holes to slide down some bread and water, and
finally procured a crowbar and pried out the staple to
which the lock was attached and then put the staple back
after liberating their brother, who also made his escape by
coming to Canada.
Seventh month 3. The last house we visited in this
village was the residence of the dear "Grandmother" of
the Doukhobors, Nastasia Virigen, who has six sons in
exile in Siberia and one died on his way here; she also
has a grandson among the exiles. Her son Peter seemed
to be the most noted among the exiles. She is 84 years
of age, clear and bright in her intellect.
While the inhabitants of the village were gathered
around us a letter was read from one of those now in
exile which was translated to us. "Is it true that the
Quakers are striving to get our release from here ? May
the Lord direct their steps that we may get to you and
worship our Heavenly Father with you, and so we wish
the Lord to help, that we may be with our mother and
see you all. We send our best messages to our friends
the Quakers for their Christianity and love in their
hearts." The reading of this letter was a good beginning

Age 70 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 417
for our meeting which proved before it closed, to be (in
my view) the crowning meeting thus far on our trip.
J. E. R. spoke of the high and holy calling unto which
they were called to suffer with those who were dear to
them for their Lord and Saviour who was afflicted with
their affliction. I expressed my exercise and the oppor
tunity closed with a remarkable prayer by J. E. R.
Seventh month 17. We reached Yorkton after visiting
the villages in the North and South Colonies. We held
forty-seven meetings, visited five or six hundred houses,
and had from three to four hundred miles riding in
twenty-two days. One of the storekeepers told me, which
was corroborated by agent Crerar, that Senega root had
been brought in by the Doukhobors to the value of six
thousand dollars.
Seventh month 23. Left Yorkton on the 18th for
Winnepeg, where we took the train for Regina and have
now come on to Saskatoon, when the train stops long
enough to enable us to arrange for the distribution of
some goods still remaining in the warehouse here.
Seventh month 24. At the cabin of the mail contractor
where we have arrived after a twenty miles ride from
Sackatoon. After a lunch we expect to start out to visit
the Doukhobor villages in this district.
Seventh month 29. On our journey to-day in crossing
a stream, the water came into the wagon and nearly to
the top of our boots, soaking the provision box and
baggage, and the poor horses were sorely tested before

418 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1900
they were on the opposite bank. On reaching the village
found the people had been expecting us and quite a com
pany gathered to meet us. A little building had been
fitted up with beds and a table, aiming to accommodate
J. E. R., Frederick and myself in good style. On open
ing our valises we found of a truth they were not water
proof, collars, handkerchiefs and papers fared about
alike; not a collar fit to put on, paper boxes "no good"
as the Doukhobors said. But the women were merciful
and seized collars, cuffs, shirts, towels, etc., and made off
with them. They also captured the valises and hung them
up to dry in the sun. Later in the day in going our
rounds we came across a house where one good woman
was doing her best at the washtub and another at the
ironing-table for our benefit. In the evening meeting
J. E. R. spoke of having been in all the villages and the
desire he felt for their preservation, growth, and estab
lishment in the Truth, putting forth plain scriptural
doctrines. I followed and said this was likely to be the
last company of Doukhobors that I would see at present ;
if in the pleasure of our Heavenly Father I were per
mitted to have more personal intercourse with them all
very well, but there came a time when it was well to have
a succession of workers. If permitted to reach home I
expected to have them in my thoughts and wished to
have a place in theirs. I had manifested my interest by
welcoming them on arrival on this continent; and the
satisfaction I had felt in soliciting and forwarding goods

Age 70 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 419
for the purpose of their getting a start in their new
homes and visiting amongst them had left a precious
feeling in my heart; but I felt they had yet many hard
ships to encounter, especially on account of the trial of
separation from their companions in exile, but as it was
the Lord who had given us our loved ones, if He thought
them worthy to suffer for his name's sake, or to be em
ployed in his service, it was an honor and we must have
faith in his supporting power, as the righteous would
not be forsaken. The song that I heard as the first ship
approached these shores about eighteen months ago com
menced with "Our God is with us; He has carried us
through," and we wanted that faith to believe He would
carry us through to the end. It was an impressive occa
sion and some tears were shed.
Seventh month 30. We started on our homeward
journey after a good breakfast which was served with
marked hospitality and reached Rosthern making between
thirty-five and forty miles riding for the day.
Eighth month 5. Attended a meeting held in Toronto
by appointment for Jonathan E. Rhoads, and what he
offered in supplication I thought was appropriate, and if
we should live to see all that might be implied in that
petition answered, there will be a better representation
of the Truth as it is in Christ Jesus than we now see in
Toronto, notwithstanding all that is apparently being done
in the line of what is called Christian work. Time, talent

420 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1900
and money seem to be abundantly expended and no par
ticular holding back with preaching of its kind.
Eighth month 5. J. E. R. left after the meeting for
Philadelphia, but I remained to do a little visiting and
then proceed to Ottawa to report to head officials.
Eighth month 10. Left Ottawa for Montreal on the
8th inst., where I remained overnight and then proceeded
on my journey homeward, arriving at 325 Pine street
about 4 this A. M.

- CHAPTER XIV.
Service Among Doukhobors, Continued.
Eighth month 23. After our meeting at Arch Street,
I went to the Recreation Pier on the Delaware River and
witnessed the landing of about thirteen hundred Cuban
School Teachers from four government transports that
brought them from Cuba. They have been visiting col
leges and other places of interest. They made a very
genteel appearance with decided marks of intelligence
and I hope their visit may have profitable results.
Twelfth month 7. During the past few days sister
Sarah's condition has been considered very critical. I
saw her a few minutes this morning and the only response
she made to my greeting was "I am very sick." It seemed
to me a very serious case.
Twelfth month 8. Word came while we were at the
breakfast table that sister Sarah had a hard night and
that a few hours would close the scene, which came to
pass about 9.30 A. M.
Twelfth month 11. Quite a number of relatives and
intimate friends gathered at 1110 Pine street, before we
proceeded to Orange Street Meeting House where the
funeral was held.
While away from home during the early summer our
sister Sarah Bedell was released from her suffering in
this world. 421

422 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1901
First month 21, 1901. This was the day for holding
our Preparative Meeting for Ministers and Elders. Three
months ago my sister Sarah E. Smith and I sat side by
side as we faced the clerk and enjoyed the nearness of
spirit felt on that occasion, which was precious to me.
To-day her seat was vacant, but we trust she has now a
place in the angelic company of those who are in the
Kingdom of everlasting rest and peace.
Fourth month 4. This day my dear wife completed her
sixty-fifth year and I, my seventy-first year. We are now
in the forty-fifth year of our married life and have had
our vicissitudes in meeting the issues of life, some of them
very grave, but have cause to commemorate the goodness
and mercy of our Heavenly Father. May his mercy and
compassion still be extended and we be made to experi
ence, that his grace is sufficient for us unto the end of
our days.
Fifth month 15. In company with Philip Bellows met
the "Oceanic" on its arrival at the dock. It was not long
before Philip Bellows caught sight of his parents, John
and Elizabeth Bellows, and after the examination of their
baggage we proceeded to Brooklyn where they went to
lodge over night with some of their friends.
Fifth month 16. After spending most of the day in
New York, we took train for Philadelphia and arrived
at "325" in time for tea. .
Sixth month 5. During the past two weeks John and
Elizabeth Bellows have had a round of visiting, during

Age 71 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 423
which time John Bellows has had several attacks like the
one he had the first night at "325" which was rather
alarming, so it has been decided that it is not prudent for
him to undertake a trip to the Doukhobors which had
been anticipated when he came to this country.
Seventh month 18. The past week has been marked
with history closely affecting our family. On Third-day
last our dear brother Thomas seemed again to succumb
to the heat. Upon his return home from Parvin Master's
funeral he rested a while on the lounge, but when he
undertook to get up he found his limbs were affected so
that he could hardly walk. Two doctors consulted over
the case and attributed it to something deeper than the
weather. When I saw him on Fifth-day, he had im
proved somewhat in his ability to walk, seemed quite
cheerful and was free from pain which I thought a great
favor. Seventh month 24. Went to New York with Philip
Bellows early this A. M. and went to the dock of the
steamer "Oceanic" where we met John and Elizabeth
Bellows and had an hour with them before they sailed.
They expressed their appreciation of my coming to see
them off and it was a feeling parting. Their expression
of giving me a welcome should I ever again go to England
I felt to be sincere ; but the uncertainty of our ever seeing
each other again in this world had a place in our thoughts
in our farewell moments. As the noble ship moved out
of sight the feeling that the "Lord loveth his people" cov-

424 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1901
ered my mind which encouraged me to believe they would
be cared for over the great deep.
Seventh month 25. At a Monthly Meeting of Friends of Phila
delphia, held Seventh month 25th, 1901:
Our friend Joseph S. Elkinton laid before this meeting a
prospect of religious service in the counties of Warren, Essex
and Morris in the State of New Jersey, and in Duchess county,
New York, particularly the appointment of one or more public
meetings in the county-towns of those counties.
This prospect claiming our deliberate consideration was united
with, and he is liberated and encouraged to enter upon and
pursue it as best wisdom may direct, he being a minister in
unity with us. A copy of this minute is directed to be fur
nished him.
Signed on our behalf. Taken from the Minutes.
George J. Scattergood,
Rachel S. Maris,
Clerks for the day.
Ephraim Smith, Correspondent.
Seventh month 30. Brother Thomas was in at the
office this morning and I had an interview with him
which I esteem as very precious; he seeming calm and
composed and inclined to converse in a manner that I
felt should it prove the last opportunity for such a con
versation, it would be sweet to look back upon. His wife
is more poorly and he realizes the situation that they both
are in a very precarious condition, not knowing which
may be taken first.
Eighth month 10. Left home for Morristown, New
Jersey, to make arrangements for some appointed meet
ings for Jonathan E. Rhoads and myself in northern New
Jersey.

Age 71 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 425
King David had his heart enlarged over Lebanon and
the mountains round about Jerusalem, but the handiwork
of the Creator is manifest in this part of his dominion
and He has also dominions not exactly bounded by the
mountains, hills and valleys, which He has created to be
everlasting. This is a beautiful country and the Jersey
people feel they have scenery not to be excelled in many
places. I was advised to see the Mayor and he not being
at his office I went to his residence. The Mayor on com
ing into the room addressed me by name and behold it
was Norman Fox, a deeply religious writer, whom I had
met in my visit, or at a meeting here three years ago. I
did not know that such men as he would be chosen for
public offices; but it appears that the Republican party
was at a loss to find a man for the position and they
telephoned to know if he would accept the position; he
answered "Yes." Although he had not belonged to their
party, he was elected. Religion is the true foundation
for either the building or maintaining a good character
and we will hope that Mayor Fox may hold fast that
which he has received of the best life.
On showing him my certificate, he said "This is provi
dential, I was about to send for a minister to come to
morrow morning where I shall be in charge, now I will
not do it. And if the Lord gives you a message for us
we want it." He seemed conversant on Friends' princi
ples and was an admirer of George Fox, also Stephen
Grellet, having read their Journals. I felt satisfied to

426 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1901
tell him that when he considered himself through I would
be open to have an opportunity, and would be timely at
the appointed place.
Eighth month n. About 10.30 A. M. Norman Fox
opened the exercises in their Meeting House and read
the 97th Psalm with the congregation verse by verse,
after which he made an offering in prayer. He evi
dently felt his situation as a public man and he wanted
the community embued with a right spirit that the bless
ing of the Lord might rest upon them. He then intro
duced me in such a way that I believed his secret prayer
was that I, with the rest, should be favored with the
Divine presence and support. I could say it was a privi
lege to be where the spirit of worship was felt. I was
reverently thankful that the trend of thought had been in
the line of acknowledgment of the majesty of the King
of Heaven and desiring help and strength from Him;
and it was that Light that was with him in the beginning
and manifested to us by Jesus Christ, that gave us a
sense of his majesty, and unfolded to us the Divine will
concerning us and the principles of the everlasting Truth.
George Fox said, "Mind the Light." William Penn said,
"It was God's gift to man."
Eighth month 14. At Belvidere I was told it would be
well to meet the Freeholders about one o'clock at which
time I made my way to the Court House. After the
Freeholders had answered the roll call I was requested
to state my wishes, which being done it was put to vote,

Age 71 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 427
and it was granted that Jonathan E. Rhoads and I should
have the free use of the Court House to hold a religious
meeting. I felt well paid for waiting as it gave me an
opportunity to meet the representatives of the county.
Eighth month 17. Proceeded to Duchess County, New
York, to pursue my religious service in that vicinity ; and
then return to northern New Jersey to join Jonathan E.
Rhoads in our appointments there.
Ninth month 1. Again in Morristown, New Jersey, this
time in company with Jonathan E. Rhoads. This after
noon we went to the meeting appointed for us, with the
inmates of the Almshouse which was a very satisfactory
one. After taking our seats Bibles and Hymn Books
were handed us which J. E. R. took and piled beside his
chair, and after a little time he opened out in a way that
gave evidence that we in nowise lightly esteemed the
scriptures. We each had our opportunity to express our
interest in the household, both in testimony and supplica
tion, alluding to those who were there because of what
was out of their power to avert, or because of not having
improved their providences and opportunities; but it
would be wise to think of the mercy and compassion of
our Heavenly Father, that the tokens of his love and
regard might yet be mercifully afforded for the sake of
the never dying soul and for the sake of him who gave
himself for us so that we might have peace with our
Maker. Ninth month 3. Forty-five years ago at Somerton,

428 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1901
Ohio, a very pale faced man provided himself with a
helpmeet, and during the subsequent years, with the
attendant experiences, mercy has been extended and
cause for commemorating the goodness and loving kind
ness of our Heavenly Father; we should say the Lord is
good and that our souls know right well.
Ninth month 6. At Belvidere, in the course of con
versation a man asked J. E. R. whether persons of very
limited education could apprehend sacred things. J. E. R.
replied that they could have an apprehension ; they might
not succeed in expressing it with the same clearness as if
they had a good knowledge of the language; but he
thought much more depended on a man's nearness to his
Maker as to how his spiritual faculties were developed
than on his training or education. Some of the Apostles
were rated as unlearned and ignorant men but it was
given them to see somewhat of the mysteries of the
kingdom. Ninth month 7. Returned to our home at Malvern and
found my M. in fair health ; we have our trials and beset-
ments, but many favors and evidence of Divine favor and
support. Ninth month 11. Our nation has been in great affliction
on account of the precarious condition of President Mc
Kinley and no doubt many have been engaged in prayer
for his recovery, but secret things belong to the Lord.
Ninth month 14. The tolling of the bells in the early
morning and subsequent information have brought us to

Age 71 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 429
know that the murderous assault upon the President has
proved fatal and his valuable life is closed, to the great
grief of the nation for the loss of one of the best Presi
dents the country has had.
Ninth month 27. Brother Thomas had a very serious
attack last evening and a distressing night. I went out
this afternoon and it was indeed a sick house. Sister
Rebecca sent me word she could not see me, but they
wanted my prayers which was touching.
Philadelphia, Ninth month, 1901.
To the Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadelphia.
Dear Friends: I herewith return the minute granted
me in the Seventh month last. In the pursuance of the
concern mentioned therein I attended nine meetings in
Duchess County, New York, the appointments for which
were entered into with interest by those residing in the
different neighborhoods. . . .
Jonathan E. Rhoads joined me in holding public meet
ings and visiting some institutions in the northern part
of New Jersey where we had not been before, whose
company was very grateful to me. Ten religious gather
ings were attended in those parts, and in the different
places visited, we met with those who showed a hearty
interest in the work. . . . Joseph S. Elkinton.
Ninth month 29. On being notified early this morning
that brother Thomas was very low, I took 7.55 train for
Media, accompanied by Ephraim Smith, who had just

430 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1901
returned from Ohio. When we arrived at Media about
8.30 were met by son Joseph who informed us that his
uncle passed away at twenty minutes past 8 o'clock.
Tenth month 2. We had a little family gathering at the
Media house before leaving for the funeral to be held in
the Meeting House in Philadelphia. Sister Rebecca came
downstairs and sat with us. In the little time I was with
her prior to our gathering, I said to her that I felt it was
too deep a time for words and about all I could say was,
the God of all grace, sanctify thee wholly, and in his hand
and keeping we must leave thee. The funeral at the
Meeting House was a large one, about four hundred being
present and about twenty of our ministers.
Eleventh month 29. My sister-in-law Rebecca S.
Elkinton, widow of brother Thomas Elkinton, passed
from time to eternity almost to the minute, two months
after her husband.
Twelfth month 20. In our Meeting for Sufferings we
had an interesting report from the Committee that had
been appointed to present an Address to President Roose
velt, to the import that they were courteously received
and the President read the Address aloud, standing with
the others, and emphasized particular parts that seemed
to impress him. As he folded it up he said it was a
sweet message and he thanked the Friends who presented
it and those who sent them.
Third month 25, 1902. Peter Jansen, who has lately
returned from a visit to Russia, on hearing of the situa-

Age 72 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 431
tion of the Doukhobor land question, wrote that if our
Committee would send out a deputation he would accom
pany them through the colonies and interpret for them.
Our Committee has prepared an Address to the Douk
hobors encouraging them to comply with the laws of the
Canadian Government in regard to taking up their home
steads and the registration of their marriages, births and
deaths. All the members of the Committee expressing
their approval of my going out among the Doukhobors to
present the Address, it was decided that I should start
on the 20th.
Third month 28. Have taken train and started on my
journey, going by way of Salem, Ohio, where I hope to
be joined by Dillwyn Stratton and later by Peter Jansen.
Attended meeting at Winona on First-day and whilst I
was speaking there came a tremendous downpour of
either hail or rain with seeming darkness. Someone
afterward remarked it did not seem to disturb me; it
does not do to be disturbed when speaking in meetings,
but the thought came before me, come what may let me
be at my post.
Third month 31. As Dillwyn Stratton needed a few
days to make arrangements for leaving home it was
agreed that he should leave his home for Chicago on
Fourth-day morning and I would meet him on arrival.
I took train for Canton and on arrival engaged a carriage
and proceeded to the residence of the late President
McKinley and was shown into the reception room. I was

432 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1902
informed that visitors were not received by the widow,
but my card was taken and admission was granted me,
into the parlor where I found the widow with some knit
ting in her lap. It was sometime before silence was
broken and some tears were shed. After awhile she was
able to bear evidence to the faithfulness and devotion of
her husband and thought no one had done more for his
country, which I did not gainsay. During our conversa
tion she told me more of her history and that of her
husband than I can well relate. She asked me if my wife
was an invalid; I answered "Yes." Then she wanted to
know if she wore slippers, whereupon she gave me a pair
that she had made, as a little token of remembrance to
my wife. From Canton I went to Masillon and on to
Anderson and visited our silicate works there.
Fourth month 2. Met Dillwyn Stratton in Chicago
and have taken train and sleeping berths for Ohama to
meet Peter Jansen.
Fourth month 5. We were entertained at Peter
Jansen's home where he showed me his scrap-book con
taining correspondence with President McKinley, which
included an invitation to dine with him and his wife, also
a speech of Peter Jansen given about the time of his
funeral from which the following is an extract, viz. :
"Then came the time of war and strife which taxed the
strength of his character and the mettle of his statesman
ship to the utmost. He was a man of peace and abhorred
the shedding of blood, and as he told me himself, until the

Age 72 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 433
Maine was destroyed, he never thought but that war could
be avoided. In fact he told me, that had he been given
two more weeks, Cuba would have been liberated without
a bloody conflict." "During those days when the ques
tion of peace or war hung in the balance Senator Bur
roughs, of Michigan, visited the President and found him
very much agitated, and grasping the Senator's hands
with tears in his eyes, he exclaimed: 'Oh! Senator, help
me to avoid war ; think of the terrible suffering and blood
shed it will cause.' "
Fourth month 6. We have arrived at Winnipeg where
a few days will be spent in interviews with officials and
reading the official reports concerning the Doukhobors
before starting out for their colonies.
Fourth month io. Arrived at Yorkton at 9.30 last
evening. We were waited upon by a deputation of Douk
hobors this morning, and they spoke of their reluctance
and almost refusal to register births, deaths and mar
riages. I told them, I had no objection to telling the
names of myself, wife and children, and when they were
born; it was only right that a record of those things
should be kept and I thought it would be to their advan
tage to act peaceably with their brethren and friends.
Left Yorkton about twelve o'clock and after pulling
through many waters, a halt was made at the house of
a man whom William Evans told when I was first at his
house that he had better get a wife, which had been acted
upon about fifteen months ago. There was such a change

434 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1902
in the general appearance of the husband and for the
better, that he might well believe "That he that hath a
good wife hath a good thing."
We found the waters not quite so high as we journeyed
on and we reached Terpenie about 10 P. M. We had
some kindly salutations by the way from Doukhobors
going to Yorkton on business; some of the wagons
seemed to have young families on top of the merchandise.
From the top of one wagon came the sound, "The
children will be glad to see you, Grandfather."
Fourth month 12. In one village, after supper we had
quite a business meeting, there being representatives from
seven villages. After our Address was read one man
requested the loan of it, saying he would like to take a
copy, which was granted. Some of them seemed sadly
behind the times in their views of the needs of a civil gov
ernment, saying that the Lord would give them a heritage
free from the government of man. All of which we will
doubtless get if we fulfill our duties aright whilst in this
state of being, but not without some sense that we owe
the world about as much as the world owes us, and that
we are not likely to get a great deal for nothing. They
could not however refrain from expressing their gratitude
for what Friends had done for them, and said they and
their children had a love for me.
Fourth month 17. Dillwyn Stratton feeling that he
could not be away from home longer at this time, it was
decided that we return to Yorkton together, he going on

Age 72 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 435
home and I going over to the Saskatoon District, doing
what I can until the 1st of next month when the North
Colony would be in better condition for travelling than
at present. Peter Jansen had also been obliged to go
home to meet pressing engagements.
Fourth month 24. Arrived at Swan River at 1 A. M.
and was met by Hugh Harley who has promised teams
and outfit for starting out for the nearest village about
noon ; he expects to accompany me. We started out about
one o'clock and the road we have travelled had the aspect
of being a new road so far as rough travelling in the bush
is concerned, for it is mud, mire, chuck-holes and swamps.
I was instructed to hold fast to my seat which I was not
slow to act upon, but of all the roads I could only think
of "worse, worser, worsest." The first sign of recog
nition on approaching the village was the graveyard
which I was glad to see much better enclosed than when
I had previously seen it and I felt quite satisfied with the
little investment I had made for the purpose. When the
people of the village were collected, I introduced the
object of my errand and the Address of the Committee
was read. There was an expression of thanks and when
an explanation was made of what would result if they
would enter their names for their homesteads, it was
favorably received and they agreed to send delegates to
the other villages to lay the matter before them and agree
upon an answer to the agent Hugh Harley. Hugh Harley,
our driver and myself had a little room to ourselves with

436 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1902
a small stove, writing-table and a lamp. There was a
good sized bed and another was made by bringing in a
couple of benches and fitting them out. The holding of
business or religious meetings, calling at forty or more
houses and conversing with those who desire to speak on
subjects concerning their people, with what travelling is
necessary to be done, makes one feel ready to retire at
night without much thought of the surroundings.
Fourth month 27. To-day we had a good old-time
Doukhobor meeting. Hugh Harley told them that what
he had heard in the Doukhobor services had been good
to his soul and the exercises of the Friend that he was
accompanying had been great on their behalf and he
desired that a blessing might rest upon him and his
people. The day closed as one of favor, not having forgotten
that it was the day that fulfilled my seventy-second year
and the sixty-sixth for my dear wife.
Fourth month 28. In the gathering of men and women
in one of the villages to-day, a woman aged about sixty-
four made a touching speech in which she said, when
they landed on the prairie they had no food and I sent
them corn and when they had nothing to draw with, I sent
them oxen and cows, etc. I have had many marks of
affection shown me, but if I know my own heart I wished
to be honestly concerned to give the Lord the glory of
his own works and on the approach of dissolution to be
clear of the charge of taking to myself that which belongs

Age 72 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 437
to the Lord ; for whatever good may be done through his
instruments the power is of him. Whoever may plant or
water it is He who giveth the increase.
Fifth month 2. Dear grandmother Verigin received
me yesterday with a warm heart; she has a nicely fur
nished room, with a boarded floor covered with oilcloth.
One of her grandsons can speak pretty good English.
In one of the houses visited I found a woman with a
broken limb. I had much sympathy for her for I felt
she needed a physician, but as my money was diminishing
and thinking it was the business of her friend to look
after her I passed on without leaving anything, which
did not rest very comfortably with me. We started out
to the next village and although the road we took was
pronounced good, there was no desire on our part to see
a worse one. In a slough the nigh horse, Duly, went
down and acted as if he did not wish to get up again, but
with our help in lifting and pushing Duly and Charley
got the conveyance out and after the broken harness was
tied with some rope, travelled on our way until our driver
lost his faith and thought we had taken the wrong road
and that we ought to go back to the fork and take the
other, which we did. Finally my companion said he
thought we had better go back to the village we started
from, for he did not want us to be out on the prairie all
night. He wanted to know how I felt. I replied, "I feel
quiet." It was now about 8 P. M. and raining, the
prospect of seeing our way back was not very encour-

438 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1902
aging. But we got around the deep sloughs and on the
trail and had a little trot for awhile, when thick darkness
descended upon us so that we could see neither trail nor
horses. Whether we were on the road or ploughed
ground was hard to tell. My companion tramped about
to feel the ground and when he thought it safe would
call to the driver to follow; he would have to traverse
back and forth and find us by the sound of our voices.
My match-box was in demand with a little lighted paper,
but as it was raining there was a limit to that convenience.
Finally Earnest took hold of one of the horses and tried
leading them and we proved to be on the trail, passing
over one bridge without knowing it, and at the second we
caught a glimmer of the water and I was soon out of the
buggy for I thought if I went off the bridge it might be
worse for us. I walked behind the buggy with my hand
on it until we were over and I judge that Earnest led the
horses two or three miles farther when I called out : "A
straw stack, a village, stop at the first house." But he
had a time of it getting there and rousing the people;
presently a lantern appeared from the second house and
we headed for it and willing horses were soon within the
gate-posts and when we were inside the house it was
recognized as the one we left at 5 o'clock and it was now
by my watch 1.12 A. M. I felt it was a mercy the dark
ness lifted enough for us to see a village. At the first
house in response to our inquiry "No man about, no
room." Indians are in the way of calling in the night

Age 72 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 439
and they have no room for the Indians. I was not long
in taking off my coat and boots and laying down on the
bed prepared for me and when I awoke in the morning, I
found the occupants of the room consisted of four men
and three women on beds and benches in different parts
of the room, also two children, a cat and a dog. Whilst
we were trying to find our way in the dark I said in my
heart, if the Lord permitted us to get back where we
started from the woman that had the broken leg should
surely have five dollars. This was sent to her and before
leaving the village I received a touching letter in acknowl
edgment as follows:
"It was not without tears that I received from you (5)
five dollars. Your kindness is very dear to me, dear
grandfather, in time of our poverty. May the Lord save
thee in this life and may he not keep from thee the King
dom of Heaven. All our family thank you, may the
Lord save you all. Polia Chursinova.
Fifth month 12. Arrived at Yorkton last evening about
nine hours after leaving the last Doukhobor village and
felt very grateful that we had not been left in the dark.
Visited James Crerar and learned from him that he
had been instructed not to enter any homesteads on the
Doukhobor reserves until further notice. I felt that was
a point gained and being told that my visit through the
colonies had had a good influence I ought to feel paid
that I was counted worthy to endure all that I had passed
through.

440 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1902
Fifth month 17. Before leaving Duck Lake to-day I
took the precaution to purchase an ax and some rope and
with a goodly supply of provisions started out with a
rather fearful heart. Reached the village Spasofka and
was given a good welcome by the villagers who quickly
collected. The Address was read and some printed
copies given to those who could read them. Ivan Prepel-
koff was the chief speaker. He said they had a letter
from the Yorkton brethren who told them that grand
father had been there but had said nothing about the
men letting their horses have their liberty and they doing
the work themselves. I replied that they might write and
tell them that grandfather did not come to find fault, but
he would like them to take hold of the plough-handles
and let the horse do the ploughing, that was what the
horse were given us for, and ask them how could I have
visited them without horses ?• God had given us dominion
over the beast of the field, and the patriarchs had their
horses and flocks, and the Saviour rode on a colt and ate
fish with the Disciples. I. P. went on to say how he felt
about eating meat and he did not want to kill a lamb. I
told him I did not kill the cattle but I eat meat and let
my sons work up one or two thousand pounds of tallow
in a day for soap, and they (the Doukhobors) had leather
and sheep-skins for boots and coats, whereupon the
whole company of women stood up to thank me for the
soap that was sent them. I was then told that the children
loved me. I said: "Well, let some one go out and tell

Age 72 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 441
them Grandfather wants to see them." A whole troop
of them gathered outside and I went out and took each
by the hand and had a very nice parting and religious
opportunity with the children and their parents. Ivan
Prepelkoff had love enough for me to get in our wagon
and ride several miles with us and kissed me twice on
parting. I remarked that they had prospered greatly
since my last visit; so nearly rebuilt that I could hardly
recognize the village; eighty cows, and enough more
cattle to number over a hundred, fifty-six work horses,
and so many potatoes that they had been giving some to
the cattle.
Fifth month 18. After reading the Address in one of
the villages there was the usual expression of thanks,
then came the remark: "We are all taking up home
steads," to which I could respond : "That is what I want
to hear. You have shown that the land will produce
enough to support you; your cattle and other animals
have increased and to know you have secured your land
for an inheritance will be a great comfort." They said
the Yorkton brethren were making unnecessary trouble.
One apparently middle aged asked me if I could tell
where the soul of the good people went when they left
this world, he had read that when we died that was the
last of us. I replied that our bodies went to dust, but the
souls of the righteous went to God, who breathed into
the nostrils of man the breath of life and he became a
living soul which could not be said of any other creature

442 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1902
than man, who was created in the image of God, and if
our ways pleased God, the spirits, when these bodies went
to dust, would go to be with God in the Eternal City, that
the glory of God did lighten with his presence, and the
Lamb of God was the Light thereof. Jesus Christ was
this Lamb of God. It seemed to be my opening for an
enlargement upon the fundamental principles of Chris
tianity. I believe that what I offered had a hearty
response in the hearts of many and there was as great a
manifestation of love toward me as I need want to see.
I do not wonder that James Smart could say of that
village and some others that they were the happiest
people he met in the Northwest.
Fifth month 27. A very pleasing incident took place
this evening. Ivan Prepelkoff came to me and said he
came twelve miles to see me. He was one that had much
to say on registration. Now he came to tell me that he
with two of his brothers and a nephew had been to the
Immigration Agent and taken up a section of land so as
to be together. This was a comfort to me and he
acknowledged that it had been from love or sympathy
for me that he did it.
Fifth month 28. I was surprised to see Peter Jansen
at the Rosthern Station. He and a companion were out
on business and had visited one or two Doukhobor vil
lages and were pleased at the progress that had been
made. I took the train with Peter Jansen and enjoyed
his company, but the trend of our conversation was inter-

Age 72 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 443
rupted when we came to the Saskatchewan River where
the train was emptied of its passengers and their baggage.
The bridge had not been carried away but the water,
having risen twenty-five feet above the average, had
washed away the bank at one end. Thirteen hundred
feet over ties was no inviting walk with the rushing
waters beneath. We had to walk up an incline plane to
get to the bridge where we found a plank about a foot
wide had been laid over the ties, which was very helpful
as far as it went; but it was evident that all confidence
was not placed in the "old gentleman" as he was called
and he was told several times to look up, but he was not
going to look up, it was neither the stars overhead nor
the rushing waters underneath that he wished to see, but
where his feet went. As long as there was bridge-work
along the side P. Jansen could walk on the strong pieces
and take hold of my arm, but when we were at the end
of the bridge-work and the plank stopped, Peter Jansen
called to a friend of his to come over and take the other
arm of the "old gentleman," so he was escorted over the
remaining ties ; when we felt we were on solid ground
all three of us must needs take a seat and rest awhile, but
the mosquitoes were so troublesome we had to keep
moving. We finally started and the train travelled very slowly,
and we had many delays on account of washouts and
water on the tracks, etc. Peter Jansen was very kind
and twice during the day he made and served me with

444 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1902
a drink that he said was more nourishing than beef tea.*
Fifth month 30. We are now at Winnipeg. I do not
know that I ever remember a message from home, when I
was absent, "All well here," bringing more tenderness of
feeling with it than the one I received last evening.
Sixth month 2. Peter Jansen left to-day having com-
summated his business. I will probably await the arrival
of Helen Moreland who is coming to teach the Doukhobor
children, having come from England for that purpose.
Sixth month 12. Met my son Joseph and Helen More-
land at the station. Took them to the hotel, after which
we made our way to the Immigration Hall where they
were introduced to some of the officials.
Sixth month 16. Went to the Immigration Building
and bid farewell to the officials there. It was with tender
feelings that we parted, for I not only have been kindly
treated but there has been an attachment formed that
may be ranked among my providences. Charles Jones
was at the station to see me off.
Sixth month 19. Had a delightful trip on the Lakes
and have now started for Toronto and from there I hope
to go to Pickering with the intention of attending one or
more sittings of Canada Yearly Meeting.
Sixth month 21. By taking the Lake Route I did not
reach Pickering in time for the Meeting for Sufferings

*(J. S. E. was in a suffering and very weak condition, the
result of a very rough and exposing ride a few days previous
on the prairie.)

Age 72 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 445
or Meeting of Ministers and Elders. The Yearly Meet
ing however opened in the morning of the 20th in joint
session with about seventy Friends present.
Sixth month 27. On arrival in Montreal I called on
Daniel McNichol, Second Vice-President of the Rail
road. I told him that I had not come to ask anything
special but being about to leave Canada I wished him to
know that I had appreciated the courtesy and assistance
that had been given me by the officials in Canada the past
three years or more whilst engaged in promoting the
welfare of the Doukhobors. Took the 7.30 P. M. train
for Philadelphia.

CHAPTER XV.
Visit to Indians in New York, New England and
Nova Scotia.
Seventh month 18. We had the company of Governor
Goto of Formosa and a few others at our summer home
in Malvern.
Ninth month 22. To-day I had sixteen callers. I did
not see them all. Some called socially, but most of them
wanted assistance in carrying on their benevolent pro
jects. It is somewhat taxing and requires a measure of
heavenly wisdom to act with judgment and leave a right
impression upon the minds of the visitors. Whilst I may
get weary in my work, I do not want to get weary of it ;
but that my life may be so spent that the talent of
influence may be properly exerted and that the design of
the Great Giver may be answered so as to bring praise to
his great and holy Name.
First month 1, 1903. There was apparently less fool
ishness than usual exhibited in the city and there is
reason to believe that some check was put upon it by the
Mayor. I have had interviews on different occasions
with the present Mayor and two of those who preceded
him on the subject of a more decisive action in the sup
pression of immorality. I feel that the Lord has been a
good paymaster, having been given food and raiment and
been supported in many religious engagements, and have
been favored with the society of some of the most spiritu-
446

Age 73 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 447
ally minded men and women of our day. I have reason to
trust that a sufficiency of the needs and comforts of this
life may be afforded with a well grounded hope that my
departure from this world will be an entrance in that
Heavenly Home where sorrow and sighing are unknown.
First month 25. A message received tells of the death
of Charles Rhoads. There will be many sorrowing hearts,
but we trust he has gone to a better inheritance. He was
a man of talent, both natural and spiritual.
Second month 7. Being in Washington on business
concerning the Freeland Bill, I had occasion to call on
Senator George F. Hoar, of Massachusetts, who, after
we had finished our conversation on the bill, said he
wanted me to see his wife. They were friends of John
and Elizabeth Bellows and the visit was a very interesting
one to me. I had an interview with Senator M. S. Quay,
who assured me that the bill would not be allowed to
pass Congress that day and he wanted a committee ap
pointed to go to Salamanca to view the premises. He
was fathering a protest signed by 629 Indians.
I visited the Congressional Library and was courte
ously received by the Librarian, who gave me to under
stand that any books I might be inclined to send to the
Library would be acceptable. I had a very satisfactory
interview with President Roosevelt. He manifested good
humor in his salutation, saying, "Well, Friend Joseph I
am very happy to see thee, how is thee?" I spoke of the
measure of preservation that had been afforded and the

448 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1903
hope that Heavenly wisdom and support would be given
him. On his asking what he could do for me, I- re
sponded, "Watch over the Indians for good." He re
plied, "I will."
Third month 6. Son William started for Anderson to
day on a business trip. He is a faithful son and bears
much responsibility; may our Heavenly Father support
him and favor him with those serious impressions, giving
heed to which he may be truly blessed. A father's
prayers, for the support, guidance and preservation of all
my children (one of whom is in the distance) do indeed
seem to be in place.
Fifth month 6. We came to Malvern to enjoy the
benefits of our summer home. I appreciate the retreat
afforded by the rest at this place and the society of my
little family.
Fifth month 28. A few years ago I received notice
of having been chosen a manager of the Christian League,
an association of men of character who are supposed
to have the ear of those in authority, in pleading for
efficient measures for the suppression of immorality and
vice. I asked to have a younger man and one better
adapted for the work, appointed in my place, but not
withstanding my repeated protestations, my name has
been retained. I had attended no meeting; until this
afternoon there was an Annual Meeting at which I felt
as if I might be in a place. I was impressed with the
report of the great amount of work that appeared to

Age 73 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE
have been accomplished the past year, and the hopeful
view taken by the League, that there was an improve
ment in the moral atmosphere of the community. On
the reappointment of officers, I again asked for my name
to be striken off, as I did not want to be on an appoint
ment where I did not work, but the desire for my con
tinuance was so strongly expressed that I did not insist
further. I was very respectfully heard while speaking
on different subjects.
In a joint session of our Monthly Meeting this morn
ing I expressed a concern to visit in gospel love the rem
nants of the Indian Tribes in New York, New England
and Nova Scotia and to perform such other religious
labor as may be called for amongst them.
Fifth month 31. Have received a letter from Zebedee
Haines, expressing his intention to accompany me on my
visit to the Indians in New York State.
An Address to Friends in Norway by J. S. E. Fourth
month 28, 1903:
To friends in Norway who are honestly concerned for
the upholding of a standard of Truth and Righteousness
before the people, whom I desire to salute in the love of
the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
May the God of Peace sanctify you wholly that you
may be preserved in the power of God to the end of your
service on earth and to be enabled to stand with accept
ance before the Judge of the whole earth.
"Be ye steadfast, immovable, abounding in the work of

450 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1903
the Lord" from whom the precious trust has been re
ceived for upholding the doctrines of Communion, Reve
lation and Inspiration and that our lives and labor in
the consistency and experience of the efficacy of this
belief will not be in vain.
It is the office of our Holy Redeemer to restore into
the blessed Communion in which man was first created
but lost through transgression. The promised seed is
but another name for the Light of Christ enlightening
everyone who cometh into the world and they who give
due place to this Light, opening their understanding, will
certainly know of the mind and will of our Heavenly
Father communicated to them, and such shall be endued
with power from on High to act in accordance therewith.
The blessing of repentance, the blessing of forgiveness,
the blessing of preservation, the blessing of support in
the lines of appointment and service for his great Name's
sake, will be realized.
Many false teachings, calculated to lower the true
standard, are in vogue. The Jews of old were called
upon to abstain from idolatry and bear testimony to the
oneness of the true and living God, but in their denial
of Christ the glory departed from them.
We are called to bear testimony to the oneness of the
true and living God and with that a testimony to the
Divinity of Jesus Christ and that of the increase of his
government there is to be no end. Striking at the root
of all priestcraft and all foolish and hurtful lusts we are,

Age 73 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 451
through the light and power of that Grace and Truth
which cometh by Jesus Christ, to live soberly in this
present world with the hope of a blessed immortality in
view. The Church has had its chastening and afflictions be
cause of evildoers who depart from the true faith, but
very precious is the current of life and invisible fellow
ship in the Gospel that is known among those who in
heavenly wisdom are contending for the faith once deliv
ered to the saints. Such having been really baptized into
Christ, eating of the same spiritual bread, drinking the
same spiritual drink, walking by the same rule and mind
ing the same thing demonstrate that the end of their con
versation was Christ Jesus the same yesterday, to-day and
forever. The recognition of the principles of Truth as professed
by our forefathers in the Truth will tend to the welfare
of the world and the peace of God for ourselves. They
who make and keep their covenants with the Lord will
have their souls satisfied by the Lord.
Some, near the close of their lengthened life, have
borne unequivocal testimony to the supporting power of
Divine Grace, and some who have traveled much over
the world and been observed of men have borne testi
mony to the effect that if the young men of the Society
of Friends would keep to their principles they would do
more good in the world than all others and have more
comfort in their own minds.

452 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1903
One who had a high standing amongst statesmen and
the learned men said he believed that the Society of
Friends as represented by our Yearly Meeting came
nearer the purity of doctrine than any other since the
Apostles' days.
Another eminent statesmen said to me on his dying
bed : "Tell your young men to keep to their principles."
I have met with Norwegians, both men and women,
who have ornamented their calling. The desire of my
heart is that the young and rising generation may not be
led into lying vanities, but that, as in generations past,
there may still be witnesses of the Divine power who will
not be ashamed of the yoke and cross of our Lord Jesus
Christ, and that as the responsibilities increase none may
faint or be wearied in well-doing, but be kept in their
integrity supported in the wisdom and power of the
Gospel. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. In
sincerity, your friend, (Signed) Jos. S. Elkinton.
At a Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadelphia, held Fifth
month 28, 1903, in a joint session of men and women Friends.
Our dear Friend Joseph S. Elkinton submitted for the con
sideration and judgment of this meeting a concern to visit, in
the love of the Gospel, the remnants of the Indian tribes in
New York, New England and Nova Scotia, and to hold meetings
and perform such other religious labor as may be called for
among them and perhaps among others whose residences border
on the reservations of these Indian tribes.
Much unity and sympathy were expressed with the proposed
visit of our Friend, and he is liberated by this meeting to per-

Age 73 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 453
form the service as the great Head of the Church may enable
and direct. Joseph S. Elkinton is a minister in unity with us.
The meeting directs that a copy of this minute, signed by the
Clerks of both Men and Women's Meetings, be furnished to
Joseph S. Elkinton. Taken from the Minutes.
Edwin P. Sellew,
Anna Walton, Clerks.
Ephraim Smith, Correspondent.
At a stated meeting of the Indian Committee, held Sixth
month 16, 1903:
Our friends, Joseph S. Elkinton and Zebedee Haines, who
are now with us, having a prospect of paying a visit in the love
of the Gospel to the Indians on the Allegheny and Chattaraugus
Reservations, and also to remnants of other Indian tribes in
the state of New York, in whose welfare the Society of Friends
in this neighborhood and this committee have long felt a warm
interest, the information of this proposed visit was cordial to
our feelings and we desire to express our sympathy with and
encouragement of our friends in this undertaking, desiring that
the bonds of friendship which have been so long maintained
between these people and Friends may thus be strengthened.
A copy of this minute is directed to be furnished to each
of these Friends. Taken from the Minutes.
George J. Scattergood, Clerk.
Sixth month 20. Met Zebedee Haines at Broad Street
Station last evening as agreed upon, and we took train
for Olean, thence to Tunesassa, where we were met and
cordially received.
The impression from what conversation I have had
thus far has been that there is a very marked advance
in the speaking or use of the English language, not with
the younger ones alone but also by the older people.
Sixth month 21. We seemed to have no need of an

454 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1903
interpreter. Only once before do I remember holding a
meeting among the Indians without one, and one Indian
told me after meeting to-day he thought nearly all we
said was understood.
Sixth month 25. Our meeting this morning at the
school ended with a sweetness of feeling. Both Z. H.
and myself have more physical strength than a month
ago. I can speak well of my native air, and whilst there
have been exercises in carrying on the work for the
benefit of the natives, there are evidences of its having
been owned. We cannot ignore the fact that with the
increase of years the nerves may weaken, and to keep the
head above the waters may be more of a struggle than
we may feel equal to, yet we know it is not the design
of our Heavenly Father that we should be overwhelmed,
and as our Saviour could walk on the waters there is no
reason to question his willingness to reach forth his hand
to keep us from sinking.
Sixth month 28. Retiring into our room after meeting,
the voices of the girls in the open window of their sit
ting room, close by, sounded as if they wanted to have
a meeting or exercises after their own fashion. I thought
a few days ago, that the boys had rather gotten ahead
of the faculty, but the girls seemed decidedly ahead of
the boys with their singing in concert. Their voices
were clear and enchanting, but there is doubt in its being
in right ordering; it is not according to the teaching by
the ancient type of Friends, and I am thinking what kind

Age 73 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 455
of answer we have to make for having a singing school.
I suppose some of us will have to bear our burdens and
jog on.
Sixth month 29. If not disappointed I expect my be
loved wife had our son William and family with her
to-day at Malvern, their last visit with her before they
embark on the mighty ocean under the protecting care
of the Ruler of the Universe. We do love them deeply
and fondly as is natural to the human heart, and hope
for their preservation, as plants of righteousness to
flourish in the courts of our God. And whether their
lives are spared to old age, or be cut off at an earlier
period, that may it all be in righteousness, and having
served their generation according to the Divine will, may
they be gathered into the heavenly port of rest and
peace. Seventh month 2. We had a very good meeting at
Piney Woods. Z. H. is one in whom we can take satis
faction as being adapted for gospel work among the
Indians. There was an intercession alluding to the
strong temptations, and that grace might be given to
overcome them. An aged Indian came to my side after
meeting and whispered in my ear, "Good preach, you
two stand here until they come and take your hands,"
which they nearly all did.
Seventh month 10. At a meeting on the Tuscarora
Reservation, after our certificates were read, I endeav
ored to give a correct impression of what was implied

456 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1903
by visiting in gospel love; that there was something
deeper than mere reciprocation of kindly acts, there was
that which sought to be knit to the hidden and best life.
And by influence and example we encouraged those
visited, to keep to what they knew was the Truth, deliv
ering such messages as might be entrusted to us for the
people. In our visiting we might be instructed ourselves,
by the insight given us of what the Lord was doing for
his people. After the meeting, the Baptist minister pro
posed that Z. H. attend his place of Worship and I
another on First-day morning and all to meet together
in the evening, which after a hurried consultation we
decided to accept, but that we would in no wise promise
that we would speak. A ride over the Reservation is
in prospect for to-morrow.
Seventh month 17. Last evening we had something of
an experience at the close of the meeting. We were
taken to the meeting by an aged Indian (grandfather
Griffen) who is 83 years of age and has but one eye;
he has eighty descendants, children, grandchildren and
great-grandchildren. He had rather a frisky horse and
the night was very dark. After we were all in the
wagon the nag was started but "Grandfather Griffen's"
one eye was not quite bright enough to measure distances
accurately in the dark and my eyes were not much better
but my ears soon heard some crashing and I soon became
aware of something going on. Z. H., the most agile of the
three, was soon at the horse's head and I scrambled out

Age 73 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 457
as quickly as I could, "Frisky" in the meantime was doing
something at skinning his own shanks, but so they were
not ours we might be thankful. We soon discovered
that we had overturned another wagon and were in a
tangle, which took some time to get straightened out.
As soon as the horses were under control, the greatest
concern to us was whether any one was hurt; finding no
evidence of that being the case, the overturned vehicle
was righted. I was given a passage in another convey
ance with a lantern and Z. H. returned with "Grand
father Griffen" and "Frisky." Upon asking Z. H. how
they fared on the way, he replied that "not a word
passed between them and the horse." Those who took
me in, were in a one-seated affair, I sat beside an Indian
woman of about 250 lbs, and the man who stood behind
and drove, was somewhat smaller than his wife. We
retired with hearts a little too thankful for instant
sleeping. Seventh month 18. To-day I had a cordial interview
with Thomas La Forte, who made some very touching
remarks regarding my father. Thomas La Forte said
that at the time of the civil war, 16 of their young men
had gone into the army and had such hardships they
wanted to be released; a delegation, of which he was
one, went to Philadelphia and were received and homed
by my father. My father told them that every breath
of President Lincoln seemed to be spent for the people
and it was doubtful about their getting to see him, but

458 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1903
advised their seeking an interview with William H.
Seward, which they did, and he succeeded in getting
them a hearing before the President. They told Presi
dent Lincoln what Joseph Elkinton had said, to which
.he pleasantly replied: "I know he is a good man, now
don't make a long speech but tell me what you want me
to do. They said there are 16 of our Indians in the
army who were not treated right and we want you to
release them; he answered "I will" and wrote an order
for their release.
Thomas La Forte also told an affecting incident of
two Indian boys out in a cold storm who were refused
shelter by a hotel-keeper who said no Indian had or ever
should enter his home. The boys pleaded but in vain
and they had to pass on, spending all night in getting to
their home, and thinking it very hard that those who
called themselves Christians and were civilizing the
Indians should treat them thus. They could not see
that such people were any better than the Indians they
called heathen, who had learned that Christ had said
"As ye would that others should do to you, do ye even
so to them." In the course of time two men were snowed
up in front of an Indian house, snow four feet deep and
no trail. The travellers made their way to that Indian
home and asked to be taken in. "Yes." "Can we have
something to eat?" "Yes, the best we have." "Can our
horses get under cover?" "Yes and some feed and some
hay, you may have all the best we have." After awhile

Age 73 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 459
the Indian smiled as he recognized the hotel-keeper, but
waited until the snow allowed them to go safely on their
way and they wanted to pay for the hospitality received.
"No pay, I have treated you as I want to be treated and
as I want you to treat strangers ; you civilized called us
heathen, but Christ says, do unto others as you would
have others do unto you." The hotel-keeper put a fifty
dollar note under the pillow in the bed-room with a note
asking to be forgiven and hoped he would never turn a
stranger from his door again.
Seventh month 22. The evening meeting was a very
satisfactory one. The Truth set forth by Z. H. and the
tone and spirit of his supplication for them I thought an
excellent closing of his exercises for the Indians in
Western New York, and so far as they are concerned
in this part of the heritage I feel clear, trusting I have
not exceeded my commission; we have been dealt with
bountifully from on High.
Eighth month 2. West Falmouth. When the convey
ance from the Livery came to take John H. Dillingham,
J. S. Gidley, Wm. Mekeel and myself to our appointed
meeting, an expression was made: "What an awful
looking horse !" and whilst I would not have chosen him
for beauty yet "raw-bones" did better than was expected
of him for we came in sight of the Indian Chapel of the
Wagnoits at South Mashpie at exactly three o'clock. We
met a wagon-load on our way travelling towards West
Falmouth, which we hailed; they had not heard of the

460 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1903
meeting and I pleaded with them to turn back. One of
them said he was going to buy swine; I told him that
I made a business bargain once in my life on the First-
day of the week and got enough of it, for it ended very
unsatisfactorily. Their horses were turned and part of
the load came to meeting. I was afterwards told that one
woman (not knowing about the afternoon meeting) had
remarked to another in the morning, that she wished
they could have a meeting and my impression is they
thought they had a "blessed meeting."
Eighth month 3. In one of the Indian houses that we
visited to-day there was over the door a square tablet on
which were the words "Christ is the Head of this house;
the unseen Guest at every meal; the silent Listener to
every conversation."
While riding around among the Indians, John H.
Dillingham showed us where he taught school at the age
of sixteen; he had sixteen scholars, the oldest being a
girl of sixteen years of age. He afterwards went to
college but said that from that first winter spent in
teaching he was self-supporting.
Eighth month 5. A few years ago when the question
was agitated whether the Indians would become citizens
and have their Reservation of about 2300 acres divided
in severalty, they decided to remain as they were at least
for five years longer, which disappointed the Legislature
of Massachusetts, for it had hoped the decision would
be otherwise. Abraham Rodman came home and told

Age 73 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 461
his wife how the vote had gone; she said "and did you
vote that way ?" "Yes" was the answer and she as much
as said she was not going to have it so, and set herself
to work going from house to house for signatures to have
the decision reversed, then took it to Boston and was
given a hearing before the Legislature. She was given a
letter to the Mayor of Boston who wept with joy at the
sight of it and came to Gay Head to assist in having the
provisions of the proposed change carried out. At first
the old Chiefs cried, but things finally settled down and
all seemed to become satisfied with having their Reserva
tion changed into a town with the right of the inhabitants
to vote, etc. All the Indians now in Massachusetts are
citizens. Eighth month 19. To-day I made my third attempt to
see Big Thunder on Indian Island, my two previous calls
having been unsuccessful. As to the "Thunder" he has
plenty of it ; when I told him that the Governor had sent
a message that he wanted him to come to our meeting to
be held this afternoon at the Governor's house, he said
"I am not going; I don't want any religion and I don't
believe in it." To which I responded "Religion is just
what a man needs to give him power over evil and raise
him up into that which is good." "Well now," said he,
"I will tell you what I do believe, that there is a Great
Spirit that is all about us, we ask Him what we will do."
I replied "Now that is granting a fundamental principle
of all true religion, if we mind what the Great Spirit tells

462 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1903
and shows us, we are then on the foundation of all relig
ion. And if we will fear God and work righteousness, the
Great Spirit will be pleased with us; every people under
heaven may have their own name for the Great Spirit
and there will be some among them who can tell of his
wonderful works." Big Thunder said : "I am not going
to confess my sins to any man," at which another broke
out, "Neither will I," which encouraged me to go on and
say, "We don't want anyone to come between us and our
Maker but Jesus Christ, He was always with God before
He came on earth and did the works which no other man
did, and after his life was taken from the earth, He
appeared again and was seen of men; it is He who is
sent to bless us by turning us away from our iniquities."
Eighth month 25. Visited an aged Indian grand
mother who said she liked the people of God to come to
see her. Her grand-daughter interpreted for me and said
she could make her grandmother understand what I said.
When we were about to leave the good old woman stood
up and delivered such a sermon in plain English as would
not have been a discredit to any one in a meeting of
Ministers and Elders. It was spoken in the wisdom of
God. Eighth month 26. Have read some letters from home.
I feel interested in our children in the distance. With
unfeigned words, I can say, "Oh! Lord, watch over
them for good as also over those of us this side of the
great water. Some things are too much for utterance

Age 73 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 463
and it starts the tears to go back and join with thee (my
dear wife) in contemplating the time when dear mother
Patterson's purified spirit left the body to be amongst
the celestial ones."
Eighth month 28. I have had a glimpse of the location
of a curiosity of which there is said to be only one like
it in the world and that in India. It is a reversing fall
of water, caused by a descent of fifteen feet making a
decided fall, but when the tide returns it makes the water
go back and make a fall nearly as great the other way;
to say driving water up hill may be a risky expression;
but what else can be made of it ? I saw it when the water
was very nearly level, and again later, when it was at its
roughest or wildest point. A wonderful sight !
Eighth month 29. Received a postal couched in such
terms that I think it best to return to attend the Douk
hobor Committee to meet in Philadelphia next Fourth-
day Ninth month 2, 1903.
Ninth month 1. Left St. John last evening returning
to Philadelphia thence to Malvern where I arrived about
9.30 this P. M.
Ninth month 18. I have been brought into very close
exercise as to whether under existing circumstances I
had better join Jonathan E. Rhoads, William Evans and
Job S. Gidley in a journey to Winnepeg to consult with
Peter Verigin on the subject of establishing schools
among the Doukhobors. It has been a proving time to
me for it is a great disappointment to forego the oppor-

464 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1903
tunity of meeting with Peter Verigin, but as there seemed
hardly enough light to justify my going I have decided
to remain at home until the time comes to resume my
work among the Indians.
Ninth month 24. Not having been to our factory for
several months I felt that I would like to make a visit
there and go all through it and speak to all the men.
My feelings were solemnized in the thought of how the
time will come for loosening the hold on terrestrial
things. The Lord may be served by a proper attention
to business, but with steady purpose of seeking first the
Kingdom of Heaven and the righteousness thereof in
the hope, faith and belief that necessary things will be
added. Tenth month 9. Zebedee Haines has come to the city
and we expect to start this evening to finish the service
among the Indians in Nova Scotia, having been called
home before finishing my visit among the Indians on
Long Island, Nova Scotia and parts of Canada south of
the St. Lawrence River.
Tenth month 19. Catharine Churchill at Yarmouth,
Nova Scotia, told an interesting incident of how she felt
impressed to visit a consumptive who was nearing the
end of his course on earth. As he had admitted there
was no hope for his continuance in this life, she spoke
to him about the preparation for eternity, to which he
responded that he had been guilty of every crime except
that of murder ; he had done about everything else in the

Age 73 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 465
line of wrong doing and his heart was as hard as a stone
and he said she could not break it. She replied that she
could not, but the power of God could break it. She sat
by his side a considerable time but could say no more;
she rose and stood, the tears flowing while she was
silently engaged in intercession on his behalf, until she
saw the poor man raise his hand and say, "My God ! He
has broken my heart."
Tenth month 21. At the Indian settlement at Bear
River we learned that the Reservation consists of sixteen
hundred acres and is capable with proper attention to
cultivation of supporting all the Indians who have homes
on it. The Reservation extends between the East Branch
and West Branch of the Bear River down to the junction
and is said to be good farming land. The Canadian
Government, on the whole, manifests marked kindness;
it schools the children, does much for the poor, makes
an appropriation for funerals, also pays doctor bills, fur
nishes seeds, and if an Indian from another Settlement
comes on the Reservation with a fair promise of staying
to improve the land, the Government will help him to
build. Eleventh month 2. We visited an Indian settlement
to-day that surpassed anything we have yet seen in Nova
Scotia, for thrift. The location was on an extensive
plain well cleared and with beautiful scenery. There
were cows, sheep, geese and chickens in evidence and it
was pleasing to see such a village of well built houses,

466 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1903
with out-buildings and signs of farming operations.
There was much general intelligence manifested.
Eleventh month 6. Among our calls to-day was one
to the Chief of a colony, whom we found making shovel
handles. He reports himself to be 75 years of age.
Speaking on the subject of religion he said "Some of the
Indians believe what the clergymen say and some do
not." Z. H. answered, "We find that everywhere, and
enlarged on the offices of the Holy Spirit and spoke of
the contrast between the prosperity attending the Chris
tian and the unbeliever. He also alluded to the manner
in which Wm. Penn treated with the Indians on peace
able and just principles. This brought out the Chief
who said he never believed that war was right ; the view
he expressed of doing right in the sight of God was
cordial to me. I never heard an Indian use the Bible
name for our Creator before, they generally use the term
Great Spirit which is a very proper expression for the
Great Name. We were thanked heartily for calling, and
this has been very generally done on parting in all of the
visited homes, giving us reason to believe our visits are
acceptable. The Indians in this part of the country and
throughout Canada are mostly under Roman Catholic
influence, thus we have avoided holding meetings and
have contented ourselves with visiting the schools and
homes. On the whole we have escaped pretty well from
coming into collision with the priests. Now and then
we have had a direct pointed question from some faithful

Age 73 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 467
Catholic, "What you come for?" But as soon as they
comprehended our mission they became open and cordial
and in no case can we say we were not well received.
Our communications were brief and pointed, endeavor
ing to testify to the root and ground-work of true religion
and Jesus Christ as the Author and Finisher of our faith,
sent to bless us by turning us away from our iniquities ;
and those who would be turned should find their peace
made with the Great Spirit through or by him.
Eleventh month 7. On approaching Pictou, we were
given a pretty view of the harbor, and I had my first
interview with a Catholic priest on this journey; he was
a young man and stationed at Pictou. He addressed me
as a stranger in these parts and seemed disposed to be
sociable so I endeavored to be the same. He told me
where the Indians were, and represented that hunting
and fishing were more and more being given up, and
those about Pictou were occupied in unloading vessels.
I told him that I had had interviews with most of the
rectors of the Roman Catholics in Philadelphia.
Eleventh month 10. We were again called upon by the
Catholic priest whom we met a few days ago. He
wanted to know our view of the Indians we had visited
at the settlement on the other side of the harbor. I
talked about the sweet tone of their language and their
fluency in speaking the English language, and inasmuch
as he said hunting and fishing were being less practiced,
there should be a steady care maintained to assist and

468 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1903
encourage them in their efforts in every useful direction.
I endeavored to go a little deeper, but with caution and
prudence; he voluntarily gave information concerning
the natives around Heatherton where they have an
Indian priest.
Eleventh month 13. We have been on the Indian trail
to-day in the neighborhood of Whycocomagh and in one
home Simeon Barker gave us quite an account of Ben
Christmas having started this settlement, received some
learning and left the Catholic faith which set them
against him and they concluded they must not send their
children to school, and now it was very hard to get over
that feeling. I told how Red Jacket did not want Indian
children to go to school to learn to cheat and steal like
white folk, until he saw the advantage in being able to
read and then he wanted school-teachers to teach the
Indians how to make paper talk. This amused Simeon
very much and he said the children must be schooled.
The natives in Nova Scotia and here-a-way are expert
in making butter and wash tubs, handles for axes and
other implements.
Eleventh month 16. On arrival at Charlottetown we
went to the Queen's Hotel and as the office was not par
ticularly inviting we retired to our rooms. The lock of
my chamber-door was out of order and as there seemed
to be no other fastening I barricaded the door with the
writing-table and chairs. Somewhere about midnight
there was a big racket at the door. I called out, "Joseph

Age 73 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 469
S. Elkinton is here, and was shown into the room by the
landlady," whereupon there was a lull and a seeming
retreat. I rose, turned on the light and readjusted the
barricade and turned back into bed where I slept until
morning. We left after an early breakfast and went to
the Indian Reservation, but on our return to Charlotte-
town we hunted up another hotel.
Eleventh month 22. We visited an Indian chief to-day
where there seemed to be quite a household gathering.
He would insist upon our taking dinner there and accom
panying us on our visits from house to house. They
gave us a very palatable meat pot-pie dinner; the chief
was seventy-four years old.
Eleventh month 25. We came to Adirondack Junction.
At the station a man with a rickety wagon and a poor
horse offered to take us to the residence of John James
Oke. Such a sight of Indian habitations (some of them
stone) I never saw. There is a broad street and the
houses built regularly. J. J. Oke has a nice residence
with the St. Lawrence beating up against a stone wall
that does not seem more than fifty feet from the window
where I sat. He confirmed the impression that the body
of the people here were Roman Catholics and also all
the directors of the government schools. The Methodists
however have a school of their own which we visited;
the fact that such a school is tolerated is an evidence
that light is springing up and surely it is the Lord's will,
that to those who sit in darkness light shall be manifest,

470 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1903
and some of his servants must be pioneers in the work.
We were told that the Reservation at Caughnawaga is
nine miles long and six wide and inhabited by 3000 In
dians; 2300 residing in the town, the men mostly
mechanics and some doing business for themselves. They
have a good store kept by an Indian. The 700 Indians
outside of the town are mostly farmers who have a good
market for their produce. J. J. Oke said that in the
evening the attendance at his meetings was much larger
than in the morning as the Roman Catholics came, not
being seen as in the day time. He spoke of one hundred
to one hundred and twenty attending, whereas the enroll
ment as Methodists is forty-eight.
Eleventh month 27. From Hogansburg we were taken
a mile to the residence of Alexander Solomon who was
not at home. His wife gave us a good welcome. Alexan
der Solomon's mother on hearing her daughter-in-law say
"A Quaker Joseph S. Elkinton" stood up saying in
Indian which was interpreted that she had been thinking
of me all morning and my father talked to her in Seneca ;
"very glad, very glad." It was one of the choicest and
most remarkable visits since leaving home. After I
offered what I had to say in a religious line, she rose and
made a very feeling and beautiful response.
Eleventh month 28. The Methodist minister took us
from Hogansburg to St. Regis, where we found a man
willing to take us over in a boat to Cornwall Island to
visit Thomas Lory White, who twenty-four years ago,

Age 73 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 471
with chief Joseph Onesakamat paddled Joseph Walton
and myself across the St. Lawrence River through the
floating ice, such a perilous journey. Thomas recognized
me and we had a touching visit.
Eleventh month 30. We have finished our service
among the Indians and leaving the minister's house with
kindly expressions from him and his wife desiring our
safe return home and a blessing on our future work, we
leave the neighborhood of St. Regis for New York and
Philadelphia. Twelfth month 24. The business meeting of our
Monthly Meeting was opened in joint session when I
gave my report and returned the minute granted me in
the Fifth month. I stated that the service was begun
under a sense that it would be attended with exercise,
exposure and probably hardship, but I took courage from
the expression made at the time the minute was granted
and I had witnessed the fulfillment of what had been
said on that occasion. Having been well received in all
places visited, it was a confirmation that the work was
of the Lord and with the measure of holy help mercifully
vouchsafed to myself and those who joined me in the
work, the service had been performed. The retrospect
was attended with feelings of quiet and comfort and a
settlement in the feeling that the Lord was not only able
but willing to sustain those engaged in the work. Zebedee
Haines with a minute from his Monthly Meeting accom-

472 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1903
panied me in the visit to six of the tribes in New York
State and a Friend (Wm. Mekeel) in New York went
with me through New England. In Massachusetts,
John H. Dillingham took an interest by entertainment in
his home and planning and assisting in carrying on the
work on Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard. Returning
home for a season Zebedee Haines had a renewal of his
minute and was with me until the service was completed.
In the Canadian Provinces where the Roman Catholics
had considerable influence over the Indians, fewer meet
ings were held but the work was carried on from house
to house, except where we could meet in the School-
house or Council-house. No offence seemed to be taken
anywhere and the ministry of Zebedee Haines was ac
ceptable wherever we went. Whilst there is the curse
of intoxicating drink and other evils to be contended
with, from the actions of unprincipled men, yet the
general condition of the Indians had improved; they
were better clothed and better housed; the blanket and
the wigwam had disappeared. There was no house we
visited, but some one or more of the occupants could
speak the English language, owing to the schooling of
the children. Their greetings and partings were in a
very pleasant spirit and generally accompanied with an
expression of thanks. In the Canadian Provinces there
seemed to be a measure of light that had broken forth in
contrast to the Unitarian, and it did seem as if there

Age 73 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 473
was a harvest field for qualified laborers; and those
Friends who had gone out before us had left a good
savor and so may we trust that in our late visit we have
left an open door.

CHAPTER XVI.
Visit to Miners in Pennsylvania.
Twelfth month 30. May the Lord help me in the dis
charge of my respective appointments and responsi
bilities, for it is a solemn thing to tread the Courts of
the Lord, and we would hope for it to be done in such a
way as to find acceptance.
Twelfth month 31. My dear wife had a desire for the
collection at our house of those of her relatives living
in and near our city. It resulted in seventy-eight re
sponding to the invitation and they were here from 6
to 8 this P. M. A choice company, who appeared to
enjoy themselves and I was well satisfied with their
being thus together, and I do not doubt my Malinda will
enjoy the restrospect of having her relatives together.
This I might say about closes the exercises of the year,
having partaken of the Lord's mercies and loving kind
ness and hoping for a closer walk with Him and maturing
for the final change that must ere long await, hope to
receive of the Lord the greatest of all favors, even that
of an endless life of blessedness. Blessed and praised
be the name of the Lord.
First month 14, 1904. We had a favored meeting this
morning. I was led to express myself in supplication
that told of the hidden exercise of my heart, and inter-
474

Age 74 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 475
ceded for the compassionate regard of our Heavenly
Father to be continued, that whilst desiring to fill the
place designed for us, we might so far as consistent with
the Divine will be enlightened to know the design of
the Almighty in the dispensations in the line of his
judgments. Would that our young people could more generally
bring their minds to the observance of our testimonies to
plainness of speech, behavior and apparel, when
mingling with others; it would show forth the beauty
there is in our principles and the value of them in keeping
to simplicity and Godly sincerity.
Third month 4. Since the great fire in Baltimore
which occurred last month and according to accounts,
thirteen hundred buildings were destroyed with an esti
mated loss of one hundred and twenty-five million
dollars, my mind has been turned in sympathy to those
who had so suddenly been deprived of so much property
and submitted to so much inconvenience and discomfort
in being obliged to seek other quarters. As it was a
remarkably fine day I concluded to go to Baltimore,
which I did and engaged a cab to take me through the
burnt district and oh, the scene of devastation! A
pathway existed through where the streets had been,
the rubbish being shovelled up on the sidewalks. Riding
alone, gave opportunity for contemplation; how uncer
tain were the riches men might accumulate as represented

476 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1904
in buildings, mining stocks or other investments belong
ing to this earth ! Man's highest interest stood in having
treasures laid up in Heaven where neither moth nor rust
could corrupt nor thieves break through or steal, such
are secure from either fire or flood. Made a few calls
and returned home feeling that it had been an instructive
day. Fourth month. In reference to the meeting held on
Fifth-day morning at Arch Street during Yearly Meeting
week the following was put in "The Press" by its
religious editor: "The reverent attitude, the expectant
hush, the placid faces looking straight forward ; the sub
dued light and the sense of complete separation from the
world, all promoted the spirit of worship. There was no
programme, no presiding officers, no prepared addresses,
each spoke as the spirit moved him, the orderliness and
appropriateness of the service impressed the visitor."
Fifth month 4. We are at our Malvern home, it being
my intention to spend as much of this month here as I
well can, trusting that the sight of the green grass, the
opening blossoms and the budding leaves will have a
refreshing effect upon my system, as the physical, mental
and spiritual faculties seem to sympathize with one
another. Fifth month 19. Instead of going into Arch Street
Meeting, I remained at home and had a precious season
in the company of my beloved wife; she has been
engaged in examining some manuscripts that gave an

Age 74 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 477
account of some of her ancestors, amongst whom it
could surely be said, there were those who feared God,
and hated covetousness, and had a very good standing
with their friends, filling important positions in our
religious Society, leaving a good savor behind them.
At a Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadelphia, held Sixth
month 23, 1904. Convened in joint session of Men and Women
Friends. Joseph S. Elkinton, an approved minister of this meeting,
informed us that he had an apprehension that it might be in
place for him to engage in religious service among the people
in general within the limits of Goshen Monthly Meeting of
Friends, holding some public meetings, particularly in places
where there were formerly meetings of Friends.
He also informed us that he felt there was a field of service
for him in the interior of this state, particularly in the mining
districts, where of late years much suffering has been experienced
from various causes, feeling that there might now be an open
ness among different classes of people, some of whose hearts
had undoubtedly been turned toward the Lord. Such service
would require the appointing of public meetings.
After deliberate consideration and much expression of sym
pathy for our Friend, and approval of his proposed religious
labors, this meeting was satisfied to give him liberty to engage
in them and to appoint such public meetings as he may feel
called to, and as the Lord may open the way for; desiring that
he may be divinely guided and preserved.
Taken from the Minutes. Edwin P. Sellew,
Anna Walton, Clerks.
Ephraim Smith, Correspondent.
Should our children survive us, the memory of the
life and services of their mother will doubtless cause her
to be called blessed of the Lord, not only having had
good natural abilities, but possessed with a measure of

478 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1904
religious feeling that gave enjoyment to her friends in
her lifetime and left a seal on their hearts and memories.
Seventh month 31. In connection with my religious
service in this neighborhood within the limits of Goshen
Monthly Meeting, I have endeavored to attend with
watchful care, openings for visiting and making appoint
ments. Jonathan E. Rhoads came to Malvern to-day to be with
me at a meeting held in the office of Charles Hires & Co.,
designed chiefly for the operatives in the factory. I was
led to speak chiefly of the relation between employers
and employees, and the peaceable nature of the Redeem
er's Kingdom. Jonathan E. Rhoads followed and was
much favored, his heart being with me in the work and
generally in the same line of thought, but more
eminently gifted and with a larger measure of experi
ence ; yet all may have that which will satisfy their souls
by obedience keeping pace with knowledge. Stars are
not all of the same magnitude, but all in the firmanent of
his heavenly creation show forth his glory, and we have
abundant cause to worship the Lord under a sense that
his tender mercies are over all his works.
Eighth month 3. I would encourage the reading of
the literature of our Society. The desire of my heart is
that there might be more of a willingness to suffer for
the cause of Christ, more of a desire to be found in the
way of self-denial, counting the reproach of Christ
greater riches than the treasures of Egypt.

Age 74 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 479
Eighth month 6. The hack at the door was a notifica
tion that the time had come for my departure from home
for the mining district to engage in my religious labor
in that field, Easton being the first place in mind as a
starting point.
Eighth month p. After considerable exercise of mind
in regard to breaking off from the work I had engaged
in about Easton, I decided to return to Malvern on ac
count of the serious illness of my little grandson Ernest
and to attend the funeral of Hiram Roberts.
Eighth month u. Again called at son Alfred's not
knowing but the little lamb had departed, but not so;
I had a look at him and the beam that was on his counte
nance the day before had settled into a marked sweetness
in his cheeks, but his eyes closed and his breathing grew
shorter which continued until 1.45 when he expired in
his father's arms.
Eighth month 13. After the funeral I returned to the
city and took an evening train for Easton to resume my
religious work.
Eighth month 24. Had a conversation to-day with
one of the teachers in Easton who told me of a principal
of a High School who could not repeat the Lord's Prayer
and had to get someone to say it for him, which reminded
me of a report I once heard of a Committee of Congress
discussing a matter, when one of them said he did not
believe another certain member could say the Lord's
Prayer who replied, yes, he could and quoted:

480 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1904
"While I lay me down to sleep,
I pray the Lord my soul to keep,
If I should die before I wake,
I pray the Lord, my soul to take."
Whereupon the one who made the challenge said, "I
did not know that you knew it." How sad to think of
such learned men being so ignorant in the school of
Christ. Eighth month 25. I had an unusual experience this
evening in the line of an open-air meeting. In a pretty
grove there were about two hundred gathered in and
around the tent holding a Camp Meeting. It was sug
gested that someone should go out and ask the men and
boys to be quiet. I quickly said let me do that, and on
my telling them that it was my opportunity to be with
them and I would be glad if they would gather round,
they did so and showed every attention. The Truth was
in dominion as I unfolded to them the principles of truth
and righteousness and amongst other things, I told them
that I had been a lover of the Scriptures from my youth
up and I wanted them to be the same. It was a beautiful
moonlight night, and if all tent meetings could be as
satisfactory as that one it would seem like a good way
to get among the working classes.
Ninth month 3. Am in South Bethlehem and it is a
pretty warm morning.
Ninth month 4. After breakfast I felt an almost irre
pressible impression to take the street car and go amongst

Age 74 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 481
some of the poorer class of the people in South Beth
lehem which I did and had some very interesting talks
with one and another of them.
Ninth month 6. According to request I made an ap
pearance before the secretary of the Borough Council
and then was interviewed by the Master of the Market,
who gave me about the greatest wrestle in spirit than I
have met with. The Market-hall was rented for dances
at certain times and he did not want to say anything to
spoil that business. That was pretty nearly the class of
people I wanted to meet there and our interview was
quite protracted, but I repeated what I had once said
to a Roman Catholic rector, that there was a way to get
along with one another and it was our business to find it.
He said he was of that persuasion. I told him that as
an employer, I had no remembrance of asking men when
engaging them, what association they belonged to or for
whom they voted; this seemed to please him and the
interview closed by his saying, "I will do all I can for
you," and as I filled out a large poster, he said he would
fasten it up in the front window where everybody could
see it and being market-day, it was a pretty good
advertisement. Ninth month 8. At Mauch Chunk I took a trolley to
go to the coal breakers about five miles away but met
with a man who advised me to go to Lansford; he said
he was an assistant engineer for the company and that I
might speak to the foreman of the miners to let me go

482 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1904
into one of the mines. I was told that three hundred
and twenty tons of coal were shipped to Philadelphia
from that section in 1820 and three million of tons in
1893. I found the foreman at his post at the mouth of the
breaker. He loaned me an overcoat and miner's cap and
the boss of the mine had me take off my boots and put
on a pair of his big gum boots which was all very well
for there was water a foot deep in places and we had to
step into the water to let the cars, drawn by mules, pass.
I was in three chambers where we travelled with the
safety lamps.
Returned to Mauch Chunk and lo ! The Fair is adver
tised to be here next week. Bethlehem, Allentown and
Lehighton all in train and I am on the track of them
almost without knowing it.
Tenth month 4. Met a number of children coming out
of one of the schools in Tamaqua and stopped to speak
with them. The superintendent came and spoke to me
and we had an interesting conversation; he is about one
year older than myself and was a miner until he married,
when he began teaching school and is now serving his
fiftieth term. He volunteered to take me to the High
School which I accepted and was in five of the rooms
out of seven in the school and had something to offer
in each of them.
It has been heavy work in Tamaqua; I thought one
man I met to-day was about ready to assail me with a

Age 74 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 483
whip, he was so full of liquor he could not walk or talk
straight, and was full of fight, but my defense seemed
to be in showing him with steadiness that I was not likely
to be moved or frightened by him ; but I felt as I trudged
on my way that when my work was really done there
would be a rest for me and I will again say that whilst
I may weary in the work I am not weary of it, and if
the Apostle could glory in his infirmities or tribulations
I might rejoice if counted worthy to suffer because of
devotion to the cause of Truth and Righteousness, and
I desire to be counted worthy of the continued love and
regard of our Heavenly Father and the extension of the
same to my beloved companion in life and our de
scendants. Tenth month 5. To-day I went from Tamaqua to
Coal Dale and on my return while waiting for the car I
fell into company with a group of young men who were
miners; I received a good deal of mining information
from some of them, but one of them proved to be a real
bad fellow. He followed me into the car and sat down
by me ; he tried to bamboozle me by asserting that I had
paid his fare and insisted that I should receive a nickel
from him. I would not receive it and told him I had
given the conductor only one fare and the conductor
supported my statement. He then broke out and gave
me the most open attack that I have ever received, saying
"Are you so foolish as to believe there is a God," and
proceeded to convince me of the foolishness of it. I

484 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1904
replied that he would be utterly unable to shake my faith,
and I did not know that any good would come by arguing
with one who was settled in the belief there was no God,
that would be for the spirit of God breaking in upon the
darkness of such. He believed like IngersoU, and had
travelled over the earth and had never seen anyone to be
called truly pious. I replied, I had known truly virtuous
men and women and had a very comfortable hope in their
death; I had no wish to die like IngersoU which was a
very miserable end; and Thomas Payne remarked when
someone said to him that he looked like the Devil, "if it
were only looking like him it would do." The young man
said, "I am acquainted with the Devil," to which I re
plied, "That was plain to be seen." He went on to say,
"To think there is a just God giving Rockefeller what
he has and keeping a thousand paupers at a dollar a day,
if there was justice it should be divided with me; what
have you to say to that?" My reply was that God was
just, merciful, righteous and gracious and giveth accord
ing to ability to receive; I was not Rockefeller's judge,
but no doubt he with the rest of us will receive as our
work shall be, but no one who received his dollar need
be a pauper although it might be that some should have
more than they get. Much more was said which was
hard and painful for me and when he said "Who is Jesus
Christ?" preceding it with a very impious expression, I
told him it was painful to be obliged to hear his blas
phemy, Jesus Christ was my Saviour and his name was

Age 74 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 485
sacred to me, and after a few more words to the same
import I rose and took another seat. When I left the
car, I travelled a very rough dark lane to the residence
of the Methodist minister where arrangements were
made for a meeting next First-day evening.
Tenth month 6. In reviewing my experiences yester
day I have much cause for thankfulness for the measure
of support granted me. When I was down in the mine
a week ago I thought I never would go down another,
but a young man that I met said he would pilot and take
care of me if I would go down his mine. We descended
840 feet and then walked what seemed about a mile until
we came to a shute with what might be called a chicken
ladder, two men helped me up and one of the colliers
reached out his hand and I was in a miner's cave and
saw the modern operations of working and sending coal
down in shutes into the cars which were on a lower level.
I felt glad I had come and trudging back to the shaft
about the time for quitting work, saw about two hundred
of the miners with their lamps in their caps; it was an
inspiring sight and it was something to meet with them.
I had hoped for something of a meeting in the mine and
now I had the satisfaction. I was also shown the hospital
and magazine-room which could soon make trouble if the
dynamite were accidentally started off.
Eleventh month 22. Our last meeting in this service
is over and I feel that it may be said it ended well, the
minister said on parting "The Lord is with you?"

486 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1904
Eleventh month 23. Reached home at 9.30 A. M. with
feelings of gratitude at finding my family well.
Charles Wagner and his companion, X. G. Koenig,
took dinner with us this evening, our children being also
present. Eleventh month 24. In a joint-session of our Monthly
Meeting, I reported that in the measure of light and
ability given me I had held meetings in the limits of
Goshen Monthly Meeting and in the Mining Districts.
Ephraim Smith, Jonathan E. Rhoads and Joseph Thom-
asson had been with me when they could. In the mining
district the life and power of religion with many were
at a low ebb, the majority seemingly under the influence
of priestcraft. And whilst we had occasion to hang our
heads because of the iniquity in our city, we had our
privileges compared with what was to be seen in the
interior, yet amidst it all there seemed to be those who
were under concern, and favored with a good measure
of the spirit of Truth, and given more of an insight unto
the peaceable nature of the Gospel dispensation, more of
a united concert of action against the crying evils of the
day, and more of a testimony to the peaceable nature of
the Redeemer's kingdom, in their prayers craving for
wars to cease.
In regard to the condition of the mining population
their habitations were greatly in advance of what they
were in my earlier days. There were comfortable ar
rangements in their homes and I had been comfortably

Age 74 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 487
and hospitably entertained in some of them. I was not in
sensible of danger during the trip, but the greatest grief
to me was in the higher schools ; while it was to the credit
of the state to have the children schooled by the most
intelligent and interested teachers yet it was cause for
grief that some things are instilled in the minds of the
students, matters which should be considered sacred, are
treated as absurdities.
Extract from a letter:
Twelfth month. Whilst out on a religious visit, at the
close of a meeting where I had been given an opportunity
to address the congregation, it was announced by the
pastor that there would be a baptism, whereupon an
infant was brought to the front, and their usual cere
mony was performed with the sprinkling of a few drops
of water on its head. There was not as much fuss made
as when in fording the Allegheny River with my father
and mother, mother and I received a baptism by being
suddenly jolted out into the river. I was then about one
year of age. J. S. E.

CHAPTER XVII.
Closing Months, Death and Burial.
First month I, 1905. My mind has from time to time
been turned toward Haddonfield Meeting. I concluded
to go and was welcomed by the Friends of Haddonfield
and an open door was granted me; I was engaged in
testimony and supplication.
First month 3. A stormy day but I made several calls,
amongst the rest one at the Home for Aged and Infirm
Colored People.
First month 4. Attended to divers concerns during the
day then went to Frankford and after making a few calls
there attended Frankford Meeting, which is held in the
evening to accommodate business men.
First month 19. Our meeting at Arch Street, I be
lieve, was held to the honor of Truth. Ability was given
me to supplicate the great and holy name for the support
of the honest-hearted, and of those who were laboring
for Truth's sake ; as also that the thoughts of the people
at large might be more and more turned to consider their
ways and dwell on the majesty of the King of Heaven.
First month 25. Came to Atlantic City and took quar
ters at the Archdale and have made several calls ; the day
has been a perfect winter day and feeling tempted to
remain over another day, have written home to that effect,
as I think the air is doing me good.
488

Age 75 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 489
Second month io. Received a telegram stating that
Huldah H. Bonwill had deceased and instructions for
funeral were requested. Not knowing anyone more
properly called on than myself to attend to the matter
I telegraphed that I would be at the Asylum at Taunton
on the morrow.
Second month 12. Job S Gidley accompanied me to
the Asylum, where we were courteously received. Navi
gation had closed to Nantucket and it was impracticable
even in Taunton to dig a grave, so it was decided to have
the body embalmed and placed in a vault until navigation
to Nantucket should be reopened. It was bitter cold,
four below zero. I returned with Job S. Gidley and
attended his meeting, but when I arrived at his home, I
experienced something of a reaction and rested on the
lounge much of the time under their hospitable roof.
J. S. G. kindly acompanied me to Providence, where he
saw me start for Philadelphia. It was a disturbed night
but I arrived home safely.
Second month 16. In our meeting at Arch Street this
morning my son Joseph appeared in the ministry in a
way that certainly had the attention of the meeting, eye
and ear ; and if I should not hear him again, I should in
all probability remember it as a remarkable delivery. He
is gifted ; and his father has his anxieties concerning him
and needs to be rightly exercised in prayer for each of
our children, that the preserving power may not leave
them.

490 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1905
Second month 24. Our son Joseph left on the mid
night train for San Francisco and Japan in a probable
five months' trip should his life be spared.
Second month 25. In our Meeting for Sufferings,
after considerable being said on the subject, it was de
cided to call on the Mayor and acquaint him with our
concern that he should discharge his duties with faith
fulness under the sense of the responsibility and account
ability. A minute was made and John H. Dillingham,
George J. Scattergood and myself were appointed to
present the Mayor with a copy of the minute and as way
opened to deliver what might seem to be called for. After
the close of the meeting we went to the office of the
Mayor and were courteously received. We stated our
case and what was felt to be called for in the line of the
suppression of vice. In his response, it was evident, he
wanted us to think he was endeavoring to promote the
welfare of the city, and that newspaper reports were
exaggerated, which in all probability is sometimes the
case, but it was to be supposed that the Mayor knew of
disorders that he had not exerted himself to have ad
justed. The interview lasted about forty-five minutes,
we were treated very courteously throughout, and whilst
clothed with sorrow that their is just cause for the indig
nation that has been aroused, the Meeting for Sufferings
and its delegates have done their part for the time being.
Third month 5. Remained home from meeting this
afternoon with my Malinda. Dr. McCollin not seeing

Age 75 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 491
me at meeting came to call on me, which I received as
timely as I have not felt up to my average health for
some days.
Third month 16. Attended the Quarterly Meeting at
Haddonfield, about 400 in attendance in the first meet
ing. I spoke of maintaining a living concern for the
welfare of the Church; and before the shutters were
closed I was engaged in intercession that not only in
that but also in other parts of the heritage, the hearts of
the people might be engaged in pleading with the Lord
for His mercies and compassionate regard, and He pos
sessed of a right insight into the state of the Church
and communion at large, nothing doubting but amidst
all the strife and confusion, all was under the control of
Him who is God over all. Blessed forever be His holy
name. It was a question on my starting out in the morning
whether I had physical strength to justify going to Had
donfield, but when engaged in the line of apprehended
duty, there may be experienced a measure of life and
power ; and we surely have reason to know that the Lord
is the best paymaster and that they who wait on the Lord
know of a renewal of strength.
Fourth month 3. The second passage to Taunton has
been effected, Job S. Gidley and wife with me. He
called at the undertaker's and found everything favor
able for starting on the boat for Nantucket at 1 P. M.
On arrival at Nantucket we were met by a cousin of

492 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1905
Huldah H. Bonwill's and taken to his residence, and 2.30
is appointed for such as incline to meet here for an hour
or so ; the grave-yard is within a few minutes' walk. On
the boat J. S. G. secured me a room which was all very
well, as I could prop myself up on the lounge and see
the water as we wended our way to Nantucket.
From a letter dated Malvern, Fourth month 7th, 1905 :
My dear son William :
We made our passage here yesterday. . . . The
hack was in waiting at the foot of the Malvern steps;
the windows of the house were all open and thy aunt
R. P. H. at the door to welcome us into the house well
warmed, and I could see nothing lacking to call or make
a retreat. Mother said this A. M. that she felt more like being
here than getting here, and I believe contentment reigns
under the feeling that with whatever difficulties there
may have been or may be with us, we are crowned with
many mercies. With love, thy father, J. S. E.
From a letter dated Malvern, Pa., Fourth month llth,
1905: I think there is a slight gain in energy, but weakness
of the chest allows very little walking and not much
talking. I have done but little reading, but can take hold
of the pen with a little more energy. It is a fine thing
that mother and the rest are all as well as they are, and

Age 75 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 493
I endeavor to accept my situation with a measure of
quietness and composure. The breaking forth of leaves
and buds has an animating effect, but there is some
exercise of mind attending the proper meeting and dis
pensing of some of the sober problems of life.
Affectionately, thy father,
(To W. T. E.) J. S. E.

After the above letter dated Fourth month llth, 1905,
there seems to be nothing from the pen of Joseph S.
Elkinton. Before leaving home on his last trip to Nantucket, his
family was greatly exercised on account of his physical
condition, and when endeavoring to persuade him to
take a rest at the sea-shore, it was suggested the house
hold should move out to the summer residence at Mal
vern, which seemed agreeable to all parties. Within
three weeks' time the home was in readiness and on the
day J. S. E. returned from New England (4-6-1905)
the transition was made; but on arrival at Malvern it
was evident that his condition was more serious than had
been previously realized, as he was quite prostrated by
the journey.
Some days passed before he felt able to walk out, and
then a short stroll over the premises was accomplished

494 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1905
with difficulty and accompanied with great weakness.
The least exertion, especially ascending steps, caused
such oppression and difficulty of breathing that he would
request someone to remain by him during these attacks.
It was noticeable that his strength was failing daily.
Having been appointed a representative to the Yearly
Meeting, he felt it his duty to attend all of its sittings,
and could not be induced to yield to the judgment of
either his physician or friends. Through his indomitable
courage, perseverence and will power, he performed the
service, attended with great suffering from weakness,
and with such narrow escapes of falling by the way, that
words are inadequate to describe them. The Everlasting
Arm alone could have supported him as he was carried
through from day to day. He left the last meeting on
Sixth-day to return to Malvern in time for a funeral
he desired to attend, where he engaged in vocal service.
When he reached home that afternoon, some time was
spent in resting before he had sufficient strength to
mount the stairs, which proved to be for the last time.
Early in the following week, his physician brought out
a specialist in consultation (Dr. Taylor) when our worst
fears were confirmed, his case was hopeless and his days
were numbered.
On his 75th birthday (4-27) he so desired to be up and
dressed to receive his children who came to see him, that
it was so granted and he spent the day in a reclining-

Age 75 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 495
chair, enjoying the society of his family. From that time
he failed more rapidly and was not able to be up again.
Throughout his illness, and while consciousness lasted,
he ever held tenaciously to life with a gleam of hope, and
whilst he frequently expressed a desire to move amongst
men again, he evinced a submissive spirit to the will of
his Heavenly Father and made many expressions that
gave evidence of being at peace with his Maker. Some
of these comments were noted by his son W. T. E. from
which are taken the following :
Fifth month 8. "I hope to rally; it requires patience."
On being told he was very patient, he replied, "Patience
is one of the Christian virtues." "Forsake me not when
my strength faileth, this has not been done." "I want
the people to know I am not ashamed of my religion,
neither am I ashamed of the gospel." "I want to show
a humble and contrite spirit." "I am not without hope
and I desire a blessing upon my children."
Asked if he had a message for Mary and Joseph, he
said, "Tell them I desire their best welfare in every way;
I am not able to write to them, but my thoughts are with
them." Fifth month p. "I am glad my thought can run on
the Saviour. If my work is done, so be it, I thought I
had a light ahead, but I want to be submissive to the
Divine Will and I want the people to know I have a hope,
a blessed hope of a glorious eternity." "I desire the

496 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1905
divine support for the children and that they may be
supported through life."
Fifth month 12. "Thank friends for their kind letters
and messages, I hope to meet them as aforetime, if the
Lord will, but if otherwise I am content, I have a blessed
hope of a glorious immortality."
"I will pray the Father and He will give you the spirit
of Truth and ye know Him and He shall be in you."
"Behold thou hast a little faith, hold fast that thou hast
and let no man take thy crown."
"I feel that we shall not be cast off in old age." "I
have not the intense suffering that some have had, which
is a great mercy. The Lord is merciful and gracious."
Fifth month 13. "I possess my strength in quiet and
confidence." "Bread of Life is what we need." "If I
had not a little light and hope I would have to give up,
all I can say is may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ
be with thee." "Messages from friends have been grate
ful." "If all has been done that can be done, that is all
there is of it." "Watch over me for good.", "I have a
sweet hope of a glorious inheritance in that home not
made with hands, and the Lord God Himself is the light
thereof." "My chest is very sore, but I am not hopeless, I await
the pleasure of the Almighty." When asked if he felt
that his Heavenly Father was about to take him home
he responded, "You have done what you could." After

Age 75 DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE 497
this date most of the time was spent in a heavy sleep
until life quietly and sweetly ebbed away.
His patience, forbearance and sweetness of spirit, all
served as an instructive object lesson to those about him
and Fifth month 18th, 1905, he truly might have adopted
the language, "I am now ready to be offered and the
time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good
fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith,
henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteous
ness, which the Lord the righteous judge, shall give me
at that day. And not to me only but unto all them also
that love his appearing."
Thus closed a most active, useful and interesting life.
It was a life rich in experience, a life spent in fearlessly
pursuing whatever he felt to be required of him, and in
fervently serving his blessed Master and Redeemer.
The funeral, held in the Meeting House at Fourth and
Arch Streets, Philadelphia, was attended by a large num
ber of Friends and others — who bore appropriate testi
mony to the life now ended. Not a few in the humbler
walks of life were present; one of whom remarked, with
much feeling, as she approached the room in which his
mortal form was seen for the last time, "Oh ! I have lost
such a true friend."
The solemnity of this occasion was in keeping with his
spiritual character.
His pastoral gift has scarcely been exceeded by any in

498 JOSEPH S. ELKINTON 1905
his generation. He had given of his time, strength,
money and sympathy to those who were in need without
respect to creed or condition — fulfilling his favorite text
concerning the visiting of "the widow and the fatherless"
— and the City of Brotherly Love, in which he had lived
more than three score years and ten, felt the passing of
his kind and unique personality from its highways.

INDEX

Abbott, George Sr., Fu
neral of  248
Abbott, Ruth S  222
Address to the Board of
Education on Military
Training  350
Allen, Charles J  175
Allen, Elizabeth  120, 180
Allen,Rebecca S., Letter to,
from Cynthia Gordon. .197-8
Allen, Richard J  331
Allen, Samuel  3, 159
Ambleside, visited  139
Annuities to Seneca In
dians  215
Arch St. Meeting, Situa
tion of considered  118
Archer, Herbert  395, 397
Armfield, Joseph  147, 148
Ashurst, Dr., Attends Ra
chel E. Patterson  200
Bacon, John (of England) 134
Bail, Susan O. (Seneca
Indian)  211
Bailey, Moses  8
Baltimore, Lady, Story of
her meeting with Wm.
Penn at Third Haven.. 273
Baltimore, Meeting of col
ored people at  174
Visited by J. S. E.
after the great fire. 475-6
Baptism, Infant, witnessed
by J. S. E  487
Barker, Simeon  468
Barton, Clara, and the Red
Cross work  301-307
Barton, Lafayette  165
Bedell, William, Letter to. 78
Bedell, Sarah J., sat as
mother at marriage of
Alfred Elkinton  221
Death of  421

Bellows, Elizabeth, Arrival
in America  422
Mention of  447
Bellows, John  385, 447
Arrival in America. . . 422
Bellows, Philip  422
Bellows, AVilliam  398, 403
Benedict, Michael  183
Benezet, Anthony, and
education of colored
people  369
Bettle, Samuel .34, 61, 102, 120
Biddle John W  331
Bigkettle, Charley (Seneca
Indian), Funeral of.... 216
Big Thunder (Indian chief) 461
Birmingham Monthly
Meeting, Families of,
visited by J. S. E., and
others  253-4
Blackchief, Simon (Seneca
Indian)  213
Blacksiake, Owen (Seneca
Indian).. 81, 87, 162, 180, 228
Estimate of the Bible. 181
Blacksnake, Robert  228
Blacksnake, William  164
Blinkey, A. B  161
Bonwill, Huldah H., Fu
neral arrangements for, 489, 491
"Book of Heaven" name
given by Flat Head In
dians to the Bible  356-7
Bowerman, Judah  349
Braithwaite, J. Bevan, vis
its J. S. E  218
Branson, Ann, Close reli
gious service  61
Bucks Quarterly Meeting,
Service by J. S. E. with
in its limits  236
Burlington, N. J., Appoint
ed meeting at  375

499

500

INDEX

Cadbury, Joel  331
Cain Quarterly Meeting,
Service by J. S. E., with
in its limits  236
Campbell, G. W., Canadian
official  385, 393
Canada Yearly Meeting, . .
visited by J. S. E  444
Cantrell, Nicholas (Vicar-
General of Roman Cath
olics), visited by J. S. E. 334
Carey, James  174
Cartland, Joseph and Ger
trude  281-2
Casey, J. C, and Wilson,
John A. B., Presbyters
of Del., who assisted J.
S. E. and J. E. Rhoads. . 268
Catawissa, Pa., Meeting at 185
Central Theater Fire, Vic
tims of  280
Chapman, John M  137, 138
"Charleston Fund," its his
tory revived  206
Chester and Lancaster
Counties, J. S. E. has
concern to visit  '. . 359
Children, Concern of J. S.
E. in relation to  245
Christian League  345, 448
Christmas, Ben  468
Churchill, Catharine, Reli
gious experiences of.... 464
Churchman, John, former
neighborhood visited by
J. S. E  360
Chursoniva, Polio (Douk
hobor woman), Letter
from  438
Civil War Recollections, by
Thomas La Forte  457
Cleveland, Grover, Visit
to, by J. S. E  375-6
Clergyman, Interview with,
on cars  103
Collins, Sarah A  180
Colored Institute, Com
mencement exercises of. 368

Comfort, David, goes with
J. S. E. to Tunesassa. . . 259
Comfort, John S  122
Comfort, Moses, Death of 102
Conanicut Island, Trip to. 370
Conrow, Anna  28
Death of  157
Cook, George (of Eng
land)  132
Cooper, Horatio G., Let
ter to, by J. S. E  84
Cope, Alfred, Letter from
J. S. E. in regard to
military service  45
Letter to J. S. E  68
Relation of personal
experience with Ro
man Catholic priest. 233
Cope, Ann (wife of Sam
uel)  8
Cope, Debbie  180
Cope, Morris  180
Cope, Samuel  8, 61, 76
Cornplanter Reservation.. 164
Cornelius, Thomas  65
Cowperthwaite, Wm. C  347
Cozens, Eliza, Anecdote of 95
Cozens, Susan, Funeral of. 184
Crerar, James  406, 439
Crossfield, Alfred  133
Crossfield, Henry .... 132, 133
Crouse, Susan (Seneca In
dian)  162
Cuban School Teachers
visit America  421
Coffee, Betsy (Indian)
Anecdote of  182
Cyclone visits Philadelphia 220
Dale, J. J., & Co. (mer
chants on Sea Islands) .315-6
Daniel, James, Anecdote of 40
Davidson, Henry (bishop),
Amusing experience in
search of  361-2
Deacon, Sarah A., Death
of  186-7
Dean, Elwood. .. .185, 186,
187, 188, 189, 191, 228, 257

INDEX

501

Devonshire House, Lon
don, visited by J. S. E... 147
Dewees, Aaron (Jr.).. 225, 227
Dewees, Aaron P  163,
164, 212, 213, 214, 225, 227
Narrow escape at time
of Tunesassa fire... 227
Dewees, Jesse . . 185-6, 189, 191
DeWolf, T. S.384, 386, 391, 393
Dillingham, John H...285,
459, 472, 490
Ditzler, William U.99, 102,
204, 223, 327, 347
Early religious experi
ences  342-3
Anecdote of  204
Death of  360
Doukhobor Hymn, trans
lated into English  389
Doukhobor Migration. .383-422
Dover, Delaware, Observa
tions on prisons there. . 267
"Drafting" for the Army
in time of Civil War. ... 41
Dunn, Elizabeth C  375
Earlham College, visited
by J. S. E  345
Edgerton, Anna, Letter
from J. S. E. after death
of Joseph Edgerton  69
Edgerton, Anna M., Death
of  361
Edgerton, Joseph, speaks
at marriage of Jos. S.
Elkinton to Malinda Pat
terson  29
Mention of death of.. 69
Elkinton, Five brothers of
the name seen in Eng
land  148
Elkinton, Alfred. .327, 347, 366
Marriage of to Abby
Walton  221-2
Elkinton, Anna R., Birth
of  255
Elkinton, Asa, Sickness
and death of  11-14

Reflections on the death
of  15
Elkinton, Edith (daughter
of Alfred), Death of... 327
Elkinton, Edith (wife of
George Elkinton), Death
of  59
Elkinton, Ernest (son of
Alfred), Death of  479
Elkinton, George  59, 61
Elkinton, Joseph (Jr.),
spends summer in Iowa
and Ohio  154
Goes to New England
with G. J. S. and J.
S. E  159
First appearance in the
ministry  201
Marriage to Sarah W.
Passmore  208
Mention of... 232, 235,
239, 240, 284, 347, 366
Acknowledged as a
minister  235
Ministry of ..243, 249,
252, 255, 284, 285, 328, 338
Goes to Muney with
David Heston  258
Travels to Doukhobor
country with H.
Moreland  444
Starts to Japan  490
Elkinton, Joseph (Sr.),
Hospitality of  8
Accompanies William
Evans on religious
service  16
Letter to Jos. S. El
kinton  28
Retires from business. 34
Letter concerning visit
to Indians  65, 74
Last illness and death. 78-80
Tribute to, from In
dians  80
Elkinton, Joseph Passmore,
Birth announced  235
Elkinton, Joseph S.
Birth and parentage. . . 1

502

INDEX

Early religious impres
sions  1, 2, etc.
First schools  2
Sent to Westtown  5
Marvelous escapes
from injury.. 11, 19, 21
Reflections on twenty-
first birthday  16
Business venture at
Seve n t e e n t h and
Hamilton Streets . . 17-18
First trip to Ohio  18
First appearance in the
ministry  23
Thoughts of marriage. 24
Trip to Boston  24-27
Marriage  29
Enrolled for military
duty  36
Drafted into the Army 43
Declines military serv
ice on conscientious
grounds  43
Correspondence in re
lation thereto ... .44, etc.
Interview with Pro
vost Marshal  46-54
Paroled and set at lib
erty  56
Letter from Secretary
of War  57
Sermon in Western
District Meeting ... 62
Business trip to Rich
mond, Va. and Pet
ersburg  63
Experience in Wash
ington on "hat hon
or"  70
Acknowledged as min
ister of the Gospel.. 73
Moved to 783 S. Sec
ond Street  76
Embarrassing experi
ence at Muney  76
Takes sea voyage  82
Appointed on Indian
Committee  85
Visits Tunesassa  85

Drawn for Grand Jury 90
Liberated for service
in Haddonfield
Quarter  93
Business trip to New
York  96
Goes with William U.
Ditzler to Concord
Quarter  99
Interview with a
clergyman on the
cars  103-108
At funeral of Wesley
Meeker  109
Visits New England.. Ill
Service at the grave of
W. P. Walton  113
Visits families of
Stroudsburg  122
Removes to 331 South
Fifth Street  123
Services in Frankford,
Mo. Mtg  126
Rents house of Ame
lia Leeds  126
Concern to visit Mun
ey Meeting  126
Proposes European
trip  128
Departure  130
Experiences abroad.131-154
Takes son Joseph to
New England. . . . 159-160
Muney visited  160
Minute to visit Ohio
Yearly Meeting  160
Goes to Tunesassa with
address to Indians, 161-169
Visits Iowa  169-170
Concern to visit parts
of Maryland and
Virginia  173
Interesting experiences
in Baltimore  174-6
Visits Indians on Long
Island  182
Also of Canada  183

INDEX

503

Liberated for service
in Exeter and Muney. 184
At Tunesassa  188-190
Begins service on Long
Island  194
Rents house 248 South
Third Street  203
Obtains m i n ut e for
Southern New Jersey 203
At Reading Meeting.. 204
Attends marriage of
son Joseph  208
Visits Indian Reserva
tions in S. W. New
York  216-7
Opens concern for col
ored people of Phila
delphia  217
Goes with Hannah
Stratton to Eastern
Penitentiary  219
Visits families of Up
per Springfield Meet
ing  223
Goes to Tunesassa at
time of fire  224-7
Proposed to join El
wood Dean in reli
gious service  228
Again visits Tunesassa
and Northern Ohio. 232
Concern for service in
Bucks and Cain
Quarters, especially
among Mennonites . . 236
Appointed meeting at
Crosswicks  248
At meeting of Norwe
gians South Second
Street  250
Liberated to visit fam
ilies of Birmingham
Mo. Mtg  253
Brief visit to Tunesassa 259
Began religious service
in Delaware and
Maryland with J. E.
Rhoads  267

Calls on Mayor E. S.
Stuart  275
Trip to New England.281-3
Attends sitting of New
York Yearly Meeting 283
Concern to accompany
Joseph Walton to
New York ......... 284
Liberated for service in
New England  286
Concern to appoint
public meetings in
Philadelphia  291
Carries relief to Sea
Islands  293-326
Visits Jewish syna
gogue  328
Visits Eastern Peni
tentiary  330
Appointed on commit
tee to prepare ad
dress on military
spirit, etc  331
Active in distributing
address  332-340
Set at liberty to attend
Ohio and Western
Yearly Meetings  343
Concern to appoint
meetings in Chester
and Lancaster Coun
ties  348
Trip to Conanicut Isl
and  370
Visits Grover Cleve
land  375-6
Goes with delegation
to present memorial
to President Mc
Kinley  377-8
Liberated to meet
Doukhobors  383
Starts on second trip
to Doukhobors  393
Third trip to Canada
to meet Doukhobors 396
First trip to Douk
hobor country  398

504

INDEX

Second trip to Douk
hobor country  405
Fourth visit to Canada
on Doukhobor ac
count  412
Third trip to Douk
hobor country  413
Prospect of religious
labor in Northern
New Jersey, etc  424
Fourth trip to Douk
hobor country  431
Visits widow of Presi
dent McKinley ....431-2
Attends Canada Yearly
Meeting  444
Calls on President
Roosevelt  447
Obtains minute to visit
Indians in New
York, New England
and Nova Scotia  449
Visits Baltimore after
the fire  475
Obtains minute for
service in Goshen
Mo. Mtg. and in
Mining districts of
Pennsylvania  477
Goes to Nantucket to
attend funeral of
Huldah H. Bonwill, 489, 491
Attends Philadelphia
Yearly Meeting .... 494
Sickness, last hours
and death  493-7
Elkinton, Joseph S., and
Thomas, firm name
adopted  34
Give dinner to em
ployees  346-7
Elkinton, Malinda. 122, 131,
137, 145, 150, 208, 229,
231, 250, 291, 476
Letter from, on death
of son Thomas  92
Entertains relatives . . 474

Elkinton, Mary (Nutt).
Accident to  9
Anecdote of  30
Death of  60
Elkinton, Mary, marriage
with Inazo Nitobe  266
Elkinton, Phebe A  180
Death of  412
Elkinton, Rebecca (daugh
ter of Joseph and Sarah
W.) Death of  285
Elkinton, Rebecca S. (wife
of Thomas).
Death of  430
Elkinton, Sarah, Service at
Tunesassa  22
Married to Ephraim
Smith  76
Elkinton, Thomas.
Injury in childhood... 4
Marriage  8
"Hat_ Honor" experi
ences in Philadelphia
court-room  116
Meets travelers at New
York  154
Attends meeting at
Baltimore  175
Death of  430
Elkinton, Thomas (son of
J. S. E.).
Birth of  77
Illness and death of.. 91-2
Elkinton, William T.
Accompanies J. S. E.
to New England  111
Mention of,
208, 347, 349, 366, 448
Admitted to firm of
J. S. & T. Elkinton. 223
Marriage with Eleanor
Rhoads  229
Ellis, Esther A  1
Emlen, James and Sarah,
Influence of, at West-
town  6
Emlen, Samuel  285
England, William, and wife 391

INDEX

505

Epizooty among the horses 119
Esterbrook, Richard. . .208, 231
Death of  344
European trip proposed... 128
Varied experiences. 131-154
Evans, Dr. Charles.
Attends Mary (Nutt)
Elkinton  9
Physician for J. S. E. . 18
Mention of.... 42, 100,
118, 120, 128, 159
Evans, Elizabeth.
Ministry of.. 9, 10, 33, 76
Evans, Elizabeth R....209, 285
Evans, Thomas  42
Evans, William (Sr.).
Religious service in In
diana and Iowa  16
Evans, William. . .159, 401, 463
Accompanies J. S. E.
on relief expedition
to Sea Islands... 293-326
Goes to Doukhobor
country  399
Farrell, David, Funeral of. 122
Fell, Marshall  180
Flat Head Indians, Story
of their search for the
"Book of Heaven"  356-7
Fowler, Esther  222
Fox, Norman  425-6
Flushing, Long Island,
visited in course of reli
gious service  194
"Friend, The," Bound vols.
welcomed to Earlham . , . 244
Friends' Book Store, Pro
posed changes in  156
Friends' Select School, vis
ited by J. S. E  101
Furness Abbey visited  137
Gibbons, Hannah  102
Gibbons, H. 0  235
Gidley, Job S., Goes with
J. S. E. to meet Douk
hobors  384
Mention of. ..387, 388,
391, 394, 459, 463, 489, 491

Gillespie Thomas, shows
Union League to J. S. E. 372
Goto, Governor of For
mosa  446
Gordon, Cynthia  190
Letter from, concern
ing daughter  196
Letter concerning
membership  197
Letter to, from J. S. E. 202
Visit to, by J. S. E.
and G. J. S  211
Mention of... 214, 226, 228
Goudy, Charles  283
Gould, Theodore, Anec
dote of  275
Graham, Elizabeth  144
Graham, Ellen  145, 146
Graham, William  136, 143
Grasmere, visited  140
Green, Foster  151-2
Green, William  152
Grellett, Stephen, visit to
Russia in 1818, remem
bered by aged Douk
hobor  390, 415
Gross, John (Mennonite) . 237
Haines, Job, Uneasy with
ministry of Richard Jor
dan  72
Haines, John G, Goes with
J. S. E. to New England 111
Accompanies J. S. E.
in service in Phila
delphia  292
Mention of... 200, 291, 335
Haines, Zebedee.
Visits families of Bir
mingham Mo. Mtg.
with J. S. E  253-4
Goes with J. S. E. to
visit Indians in New
York, New England
and Nova Scotia.453-471
Mentioned  472
Halftown, Harrison (Sen
eca Indian)  81, 259
Halftown, Isaac  87

506

INDEX

Halftown, Jefferson  214
Hall, Nathan P  222
Harris, Elizabeth Sarah... 152
Harley, Hugh  435
Harvev, William B.
Visits the Doukhobor
country  405
Mention of  408, 411
Hastings, Horace L  282
Hathaway, Phebe  36
"Hat Honor," Experience
of J. S. E. in Washing
ton  71
Of Thomas Elkinton
and Jos. S. Elkinton
in Philadelphia
courtroom  116-7
Herr, Amos, Letter to  241
Heston, David  307
Visits Muney Mo. Mtg. 258
Hicks, Edward  147
Hill, Thomas (St. Regis
Indian)  67
Hilles, Samuel  42
Hilles, William  7, 23
Hillkoff, Prince (Russian
nobleman)  385, 386,400
402, 404
Hires, Charles E. & Co.,
Meeting for factory
operatives of  478
Hoar, George F., visited
by J. S. E  447
Hockett, William, Experi
ences in Confederate
Army  42
Hodgkin, John  132
Holgate, Mary, Death of. 360
Huff, H. (Indian inter
preter)  165, 166
Huff, Laura Jimerson (In
dian)  190
Hutchinson, Thomas  156
Indian Boys, Anecdote of. 458
Indian History, Papers re
lating to, presented to
Indian Committee  261

Indians of Alleghany Res
ervation, Letter of, con
cerning Joseph Elkinton. 80
Visit to, by J. S. El
kinton and others, 161-169
Ingalls, Dr  386
Iowa Friends, Impressions
of  169
Ireland, Brief visit to, by
J. S. E  151-2
Irwin, George, Remarks at
dinner to employees .... 347
Ivan, Ivan (Doukhobor).. 407
Jackson, Jesse (Seneca
Indian)  166
Jansen, Peter. 400, 430, 431,
435, 442-3
Jesus Christ, Jewish atti
tude toward  339-340
Jamesburg, N. J., Reform
atory visited by J. S. E. 373
Jewish Synagogue, visited
.by J. S. E  328
Jimerson, Laura (Seneca
Indian)  167
Jimerson, Samuel  167
Jimerson, Wallace  190
John, Alexander (Seneca
Indian)  162
Jones, Charles  444
Jones, Isaac  123
Jordan, Richard.
Anecdote of  72
Judkins, Dr. and wife  222
Justice, Letitia  286
Kite, Mary  8
Letter to  16
Sickness and death of 31
Kite, Rebecca  327
Kite, William  180
Koenig, X. G, Guest of J.
S. E  486
La Forte, Thomas, Civil
War recollections  457
Lancaster Castle, Visited.. 135

INDEX

507

Lancaster and Chester
Counties, J. S. E. has
concern to visit  359
Leeds, Amelia  126
Leeds, Davis, Drowning of 124
Leonhardt, Frederick. .405, 410, 414
Levy, J. Leonard (Jewish
Rabbi), Visit to  340
Lewis, John  88
Lightfoot, Margaret, Let
ter to  239
Lincoln, Abraham, Anec
dote of, by Thomas La
Forte  457
Lippincott, Caleb  40
Lippincott, Restored  40
Lippincott, Richard  40
Lippincott, Thomas (of
Woodstown), relates
some family history .... 40
Lloyd, Mary Ann, Minis
try of, serviceable to
Wm. U. Ditzler  343
Logan, Sim (Indian) ..... 167
London, Visit to, by J. S.
E  146-8
Lord's Prayer, Anecdote to
illustrate ignorance of. . 479
McClellan (Gen.) George
B  153
McCollin, Dr. S. Mason.. 490
Attends Malinda El
kinton  208
McCreary, W. F  406
McKinley, William (Pres
ident) , Interview with,
by J. S. E  367
Letter to, by J. S. E. 370-1
Death of  428
McNichol, Daniel, railroad
official  445
Machartoff, Ivan (Douk
hobor immigrant) .. .409, 415
Maris, Dr. Edward ... 194,196, 331
Masters, Parvin, Funeral
of  423

Mather, Rachel C  299-320
Character of her work 300
Mauch Chunk, Visit to'
coal mines of  482
Meeker, Wesley, Death of 109
Meetings for discipline,
Importance of attending 31
Mekeel, William, Travels
with J. S. Elkinton  459
Mentioned  472
Memorial of the Meeting
for Sufferings, in 1896,
against Military Drill.. 351-2
Mennonites, Prospect of
service among, by J. S.
E  236
Doctrines and practices
of  237-8
Methodist ministers visted
by J. S. E. in interest of
address of Philadelphia
Quarter  333
Military training, Protest
against, by Meeting for
Sufferings  350
Ministry, Anecdote to il
lustrate the need of
faithfulness in  39
Minute obtained by J. S.
E. to visit meetings of
Haddonfield Quarter ... 93
Of Frankford Monthly
Meeting  126
To Ohio Yearly Meet
ing  160
To parts of Maryland
and Virginia  173
For service in Exeter
and Muney  184
Visit to Seneca In
dians and South
western New York. 209
Obtained _ by J. S. E.
for visiting families
of Birmingham Mo.
Mtg  253
For service in New
England  286

508

INDEX

To accompany Douk-
h o b o r s to their
Canadian homes . . . 398
For service in North
ern New Jersey, etc. 424
To visit Indians in
New York, New
England and Nova
Scotia  452
For service in limits
of Goshen Meeting
and in mining dis
tricts of Pa  477
Montizambert, Dr. ...386,
389, 399, 404
Morgan, William B., Let
ter from, in relation to
'ihe Friend"  243
Moreland, Helen, goes to
teach Doukhobor chil
dren  444
Morris, Rachel  3
Morris, Samuel  74, 163,
168, 353, 378
Mount Pleasant, John,
(Tuscarora Indian)  68
Murray, Ellen  311
Naylor, Jacob  372
Negroes of the South,
Observations on, in 1865 63
Newton, Thomas  136
Newton, Mary  135
New Year's Parade, Re
flections on  277,446
New York Yearly Meeting
at Poughkeepsie, visited
by J. S. E  283
Nicholson, Lindsay,
Funeral of  75
Nicholson, Rebecca and
Sarah  229
Nicholson, Richard  134
Nitobe, Inazo, marriage
with Mary Elkinton  266
Nitobe, Mary (Elkinton),
Returns to America on
visit  284

No-Heart, Abraham (Da
kota Indian), Letter
from, explaining Indian
religion  266
Norway, Address to
Friends in  449-452
Nova Scotia Indians, Ob
servations on  465-9
Nutt, Sarah, Death of.... 157-8
Ohio Yearly Meeting, Visit
to, by J. S. E., in 1878. . 161
Oke, John James  469
Onesakenrat, Joseph (In
dian chief), Letter to... 181
Death of  183
Overholzer, Isaac  238
Parents and children, Con
cern of J. S. E. in rela
tion to  245
Passmore, Benjamin W... 257
Death of  371
Passmore, Sarah W., mar
riage to Joseph Elkinton 208
Pastorius, Francis Daniel,
and slavery  368
Patterson, Faith  222
Patterson, George  281
Patterson, Malinda, visits
Philadelphia  24
Marriage to J. S. El
kinton  29
Patterson, Mahlon  222
Patterson, Mary  29
Patterson, Rachel, Death
of  95
Patterson, Rachel E., Let
ter to  19
At North Meeting.... 129
Ministry at her hus
band's funeral  179
Serious accident to... 200
Mention of . .231, 250,257, 277
Last illness and death, 289-291
Patterson, Tilman, Death
of  179

INDEX

509

Patterson, Tilman (Jr.).. 180
Patterson, William (Sen
eca Indian)  190
Payne, D. A. (Bishop)... 281
Pedley, Frank (superin
tendent Canadian Ry.), 395, 399
Petersburg, Va., visited by
J. S. E  63
Pickard, Daniel, visits
America  94
Mention of... 134, 136,
139, 141, 142, 143
Pickard, Eliza. .. .137, 139,140, 142
Pickard, Lucy  135
Pierce, James  165
Pierce, James (Seneca
Indian)  86
Pierce, King  165
Pitfield, Elizabeth  28
Pratt, Hodgson (of Eng
land),- on Universal
Peace  358
Prepelkoff, Ivan (Douk
hobor)  440
Princess Ann, Md., Expe
riences among prisoners
in the jail  271
Pullman, George, assistant
to Clara Barton at Sea
Islands  301
Quay, Matthew S., visited
by J. S. E  447
Queries, Importance of... 240
Randall, Samuel J., assists
J. S. E. in tariff matter
at Washington  71
Letter to, by J. S. E.. 246
Red Cross Association
work at Sea Islands un
der Clara Barton. .. .301-307
Religion in the United
States, Conference in re
lation to  262
"Returning Minutes," from
New England meetings. 287

Rhoads, Charles, Letter to,
from J. S. E., after death
of Joseph Elkinton  81
Mention of... 242, 248,
327, 348, 378, 412
Death of  447
Rhoads, Deborah  209, 258
Rhoads, Eleanor, marriage
with William T. Elkin
ton  229
Rhoads, James E. .163, 165,
167, 169, 203, 331
Rhoads, Jonathan E.. 203,
204, 217, 218, 230, 266,
276, 278, 345, 346, 353,
358, 359, 364, 373, 380,
419, 427, 463, 478, 486
E x t e n s ive religious
service in Delaware
and Maryland ...267-274
Letter to Jos. S. El
kinton  278-9
Visits Doukhobors
with J. S. E  413-9
Unites with J. S. E. in
religious service in
Northern New Jer
sey, etc  424
Rhoads, Joseph, visits fam-
i 1 i e s of Birmingham
Monthly Meeting with J.
S. E  253, 254
Richmond, Va., visited by
J. S. E  63
River Brethren, Experi
ences among  251
Roaring Creek, Meeting at 186
Roberts, Esther  231
Roberts, Hiram, Funeral
of  479
Roberts, Jacob, accompa
nies J. S. E. to Ohio
Yearly Meeting  161
Roberts, Phebe  290
Roman Catholics, attitude
toward appointed meet
ing of Friends  327
Roosevelt, Theodore, In
terview with, by J. S. E. 447

510

INDEX

Ryan, Patrick John (Arch
bishop)  333
Salem Quarterly Meeting,
Ohio, visited by J. S. E.,
170-171
Salisbury, Del., experiences
at public meetings there, 269, 270
Sawyer, Henry, Civil War
experiences  207
Scattergood, George J. 159,
160, 175, 182, 210, 214,
216, 261, 331, 490
Delivers Gospel tem
perance sermon .... 216
Scattergood, Joseph  41,
42, 65, 73, 74
Hurried visit to Wash
ington  122
Death of  262
Scattergood, Thomas,
Anecdote of  34
Scattergood, William, Let
ter to, by J. S. E.... 78, 79-80
Scotton, Robert  7, 23
Sea Islands, visited by J.
S. Elkinton and Wm.
Evans  293-326
Nature and cause of
the disaster (note) 293-4
Sellew, C. Virginia  327
Sellew, Edwin P. and C.
Virginia, Letter to  192-3
Sellew, Edwin P.. 331, 332,335, 348
Seneca Indians, Land
Troubles  122, 210
Improvement in use of
English language.. .453-4
Senega Root, a product of
Doukhobor industry  417
Seward, William H, be
friends Seneca Indians.. 458
Sewel's History, how one
copy was useful  27
Sharpless, Enos, Funeral
of  72

Sharpless, Enos and Han
nah  8
Sharpless, Nathan  5
Sheppard, Clarkson.93, 119,
124, 199, 209, 254, 290
Death of  344
Shillitoe, Thomas, Anec
dote of  30
Shinn, Samuel E.
Death of, by drowning 21
Smart, James  386, 442
Smith, Ephraim, married
to Sarah Elkinton  76
Note concerning  119
Mention of... 285, 331,
346, 353, 486
Goes to England with
Jonathan E. Rhoads 345
Smith, Evan, religious op
portunity at house of. 170
Smith, Gideon, neighbor
hood visited  173
Smith, Hannah (Tyler),
Funeral of  177
Her family connec
tions  177
Smith, Louisa  226
Smith, Sarah (Elkinton),
Sickness and death of. 421
Snowdon, Joseph  34
Snow Hill, N. J., Experi
ences of J. S. E. at ap
pointed meeting  94
Solomon, Alexander  470
Solomon, Mitchell (St.
Regis Indian)  68
Southern District Meeting,
Laying down first con
sidered  118
Authorized by Phila
delphia Quarter  120
Formally attached to
Arch Street  121
Special Providences, Some
instances related  109, 154
Stanton, Edwin M., Secre
tary of War, Letter from 57
Stewardson, Thomas  34
Stokes, John S  72, 180

INDEX

511

Death of  283
Stokes, Dr. Newlin, At
tends Rachel E. Patter
son  ._  200
Stratton, Dillivyn, goes
with J. S. E. to Douk
hobor country  432-4
Stratton, Hannah, visits
Eastern Penitentiary. . . . 219
Stratton, Joseph, Letter to, 191-2
Strawbridge, Justus C  367
Stroudsburg, Pa., Sojourn
at  110
Stuart, Edwin S., visited
by J. S. E  275
"Sunday Breakfast" Asso
ciation  347
Swarthmore Meeting and
Hall visited  137
Sykes, John, visits Ameri-
ica  94
Tamaqua, Pa., Visit to  482
Tatum, William  123
Thomas, James Carey, and
wife  177
Thomasson, Joseph  486
Thompson, Francis (of
England)  132
Thompson, Jabez  8
Thompson, Josiah .... 134, 153
Thompson, Sarah  2
Thorn, Barton, goes with
J. S. E. to visit Gov
ernor of New Jersey. . . 373
Tolstoi, Sergius  394
Townsend, William P. 202, 239, 359
Tunesassa, visited by E.
Dean and J. S. E  190
Visit by J. S. E. and
G. J. S  212
Destroyed by fire  224-7
Visited by J. S. E. and
Zebedee Haines  453
Turnpenny, Joseph  280
Tuscarora Indian Reserva
tion, Meeting at  455

Vail, Abigail *  327
Vail, Benjamin... 285, 328, 331
Verigin, Nastasia (mother
of Peter Verigin) .. .416, 437
Verigin, Peter  416, 463
Wagner, Charles, guest of
J S E 486
Wallace, Dr." '. '. '. '. '. iii,' 149, 151
Wallace, Susan  131, 149
Walton, Abby, marriage
with Alfred Elkinton. .221-2
Walton, Anna  347
Walton, Joseph, at West-
town  5-6
Accompanies J. S. E.
on sea voyage to
Florida  82
Writes to J. S. E. in
England  143
Companion in visit to
Iowa and Ohio  170
Visits Indians of Can
ada  183
Labors with J. S. E.
among Mennonites.. 236
Mention of  235,240
284, 288, 307
V^alton, Mary S  327
Walton, Samuel and Sarah 222
Walton, W. P., Funeral of 113
Warner, Charles, accom
panies J. S. E. to Bos
ton  24
Warner, Yardley  61
Warrington, Hannah  61
Warrington, Seth, accom
panies J. S. E. to Ohio.. 232
Weeks, Abram and Esther,
Letter to, by J. S. E  101
West Chester Normal
School, Appointed meet-
in? at  359
Western District Meeting. 62
West Philadelphia Meet
ing House authorized... 122
Meeting considered . . 159
Meeting formally
opened  161

512

INDEX

Wheeler, Daniel, visit to
Russia in 1818 remem
bered by aged Douk
hobor  ,...390, 415
White, Dr. Richard  134
White, Thomas Lory. .. .470-1
White, William T. (Cana
dian Immigration Agent) ,
- 386, 393, 395
Whittier, J. G., his home,
visited by J. S. E  282
Williams, Charles  61
Willits, Charles L., Fund, 223, 412
Wilson, John A. B., and
Casey, J. C, Presbyters
of Del., who assisted
visiting Friends  268
Wilson, Sarah (of Eng
land)  140

Wistar, Thomas ... .65, 85, 103
Wood, Abigail  200
Wood, Henry.... 173, 174,
175, 176, 180
Wood, Dr. Stephen  194
Woodward, Mary  3
Woolman, John, and slav
ery  368
Worth, Ebenezer ... .8, 65, 85
Anecdote of  202
Wrightsville, Bucks Co.,
Appointed meeting at. . . 366
Yarnall, Thomas  100
Yearly Meetings' Commit
tee of 1872, Service on.. 118
Yellowblanket, Moses,
( Seneca Indian)  259
Zook, Elhanan  204, 364

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