A Journal

of the Life, Travels, and Labours of Love

In The Work of the Ministry,

of that Worthy Elder and Faithful Servant of Jesus Christ,

James Dickinson

Who Departed This Life At Moorside, In Cumberland, On The 6th Of The Third Month, 1741, In The Eighty-Third Year Of His Age.

* * *

Unabridged from the Friend's Library 1837-1850

by William Evans and Thomas Evans

Formatting & Modernized Spelling by

Jason R. Henderson 2017

To the Reader

The Apostle John was instructed to write, “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord, from henceforth: Yes, says the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.”—Rev, 14:13. And it is no way strange that he should be instructed so to write, considering what is elsewhere said, that “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints,”—Psalm 116:15; and that it is the end of all their labours, (and a blessed end it is indeed,) to which the crown is promised; as was said to one of the churches, “Be faithful unto death, and I will give you a crown of life.”—Rev. 2:10. This is to them an end of all their labours, jeopardies, hardships, and sufferings; and they are landed safe in that much to be desired port, “where the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest.” But then, if their labours are so acceptable to the Lord, and their works follow them, (for the reward is to be according to them, Matt. 16:27, in that glorious kingdom they are entered into,) how precious ought they to be in the sight of his servants! Even the remembrance of them ought not to be lost, but the fragments to be gathered up, that they may be transmitted to posterity for their imitation and encouragement, and this not in any wise for the exalting of man, but that the Power whereby they have been raised up, preserved, and carried through, may be exalted.

For this, even that Power, was their wisdom and their strength, and blessed are all they who put their trust in it; that according to the example of the psalmist, one generation may praise his works to another, and declare his mighty acts,—Psal. 145:4, even those mighty acts which the Lord has wrought through his servants, whom he has been pleased to raise up from a low estate, and to set among princes, even the princes of his people, and to declare the might of his arm. He is pleased to carry on his own work by mean instruments in the world's account, that no flesh might glory in his presence; as the apostle writes, “For you see your calling, brethren; how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God has chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; and base things of the world, and things which are despised, has God chosen.” 1 Cor. 1:26-27. And this has been wonderfully made appear in this generation, and the generation preceding; wherein God has been pleased to carry on his glorious work of reformation, in causing the Gospel to be preached again, after a long night of darkness, by mean and illiterate instruments in the world's account; by whom they have been, and still are, accounted as fools: and yet how mightily it has pleased God to prosper his work in their hands, to the gathering many souls near to himself, and into unity with his blessed Spirit, through their ministry.

Of this number was our friend James Dickinson, the author of the ensuing journal, a man indefatigable in his labours and services for the edification of the church, and the good of souls; whose ministry was not in the enticing words which man's wisdom teaches, but in the demonstration of the Spirit and of power, and in that wisdom which the Holy Spirit teaches; and was effectual to the convincing and gathering many, and settling them upon the rock Christ Jesus, and under his teaching, who is the foundation of all the righteous generations; in whom all such who believe shall not be ashamed, nor shall be any “more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God,” as says the apostle, Eph. 2:19.

And reader, if you peruse the following account of the services and labour of love of this man of God, with an unprejudiced mind, and with a desire to be informed and helped forward in your spiritual journey, you will, no doubt, reap advantage by it, and be encouraged to press forward; and it will be to you a savour of life unto life; that is, the savour of life that will attend you in the reading of it, if you read it with a single eye, will tend to promote the same life in your soul, and you will desire, according to your measure, to be found walking in faithfulness towards God: for this is that which can only recommend to him; and thus will the end of the labour of his faithful servants be answered.

And if you find anything which seems not so clearly and fully set forth, or that he is short in his account concerning his travels in some places, you need not wonder at it, considering how much he was employed in public service, and almost continually travelling to and fro in the work of the ministry; but it is rather to be admired that he was capable of transmitting so much, and that so well as he has done; and not only so, but also as he was a man who had not the advantage of a liberal or learned education, but like the disciples of his Lord formerly, (see Acts 4:13.) was ignorant and unlearned in that literature; though he was wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil, and was able with the blessed apostle, “to speak wisdom among them that were perfect,”—1 Cor. 2:6; and to declare his experience in the things of God, and the mysteries of true godliness and saving religion: and therefore it is hoped, that inaccuracies in style and manner of expression, or otherwise, will be overlooked and excused by the candid and ingenuous reader.

As to the account of his acceptance among Friends where he lived, and the service he was of in the meeting he belonged to, we refer to the testimony concerning him from the monthly meeting of which he was a member, herewith published; and shall conclude this preface with this short exhortation to every particular (but more especially to the youth,) who may read the ensuing treatise: Would you be a vessel of honour in the house of God, and of service in your day and generation, (as this our worthy friend was,) according to your degree and station in the Church of Christ? You must then keep under the government of the grace or Spirit of God, which made him what he was, and learn to trust in it: for “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.”—Gal. 3:6; and so it will be to all his children after the promise: and seek not your own honour, for “how can you believe who receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that comes from God only,” says Christ our Lord and Pattern, John 5:44. And if you keep under the government of the Spirit or grace of God, to the manifestation of his light in your own heart, (which are all one thing, under different names, according to the diversities of the operations of God's universal gift dispensed for the redemption of mankind, and have all the same or the like properties and effects ascribed to each of them,) you will receive power to become a child of God, and inherit the promises. Concerning which terms of grace, spirit and light, for the sake of such who may be strangers to this doctrine, a few Scripture testimonies are subjoined:

1st, Under the term grace: “By grace are you saved through faith.”—Eph. 2:8. God's “grace is sutficient for you.—2 Cor. 12:9. It is that which “teaches to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and to live soberly, righteously, and godly.”—Titus 2:12.

2ndly, Under the term Spirit: “When the Spirit of Truth is come, he will guide you into all truth.” John 16:13. “The things of God knows no man, but the Spirit of God.” 1 Cor. 2:12. “But God has revealed them to us by his Spirit.” 1 Cor. 2:10. “Grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby you are sealed unto the day of redemption.” Eph. 4:30. “As many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.”—Rom. 8:14. “Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.” Rom. 8:9; for it is through the Spirit the deeds of the body (which are our lusts) are mortified. Rom. 8:13.

3rdly, Under the term Light: Christ is “the true Light which enlightens every man that comes into the world,” (John 1:9.) as he declares of himself, “I am the light of the world; he that follows me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”—John 8:12. And thus is fulfilled what the prophet foretold concerning him, that “God gave him (his Son) for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles.”—Isa. 42:6. And again he says, “I will also give you for a light to the Gentiles, that you may be my salvation unto the end of the earth,”—Isa. 49:6; and also by Zacharias, “to give light to them that sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”—Luke 1:79. And this is what the Apostle John gives testimony to, that it was come; “because,” says he, “the darkness is past, and the true light now shines.” 1 John 2:8; and exhorts the believers to walk in it, chap. 1:7; and what the Apostle Paul bears record of, when he says, “But all things that are reproved, or are (discovered, as in the margin,) are made manifest by the light,” Eph. 5:13.; and this is that light with which the heavenly city, the new Jerusalem, is enlightened, and therefore “needs not the light of the sun or of the moon, but the glory of God does lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof; and the nations of them which are saved, shall walk in the light of it.” Rev. 21:23, 24. And it is to this gift, which is the saving health of all nations, the apostle recommends the believers in his time, under the term grace, and to which all who have known the sufficiency of it, do direct all: “And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.”—Acts 20:32.

To God only wise, who is glorified in his saints, and preserves, through all, to his heavenly kingdom such who put their trust in him, be dominion and thanks, now and for evermore.

Amen.

A Journal of the Life and Travels

of James Dickinson

Chapter I.

His birth—Care and Faithfulness of His Parents—His Transgression and Conviction—Religious Exercises and First Appearance in the Ministry—Visits to a Presbyterian and Baptist Meeting, etc.—Travels in Various parts of England and Wales, also in Scotland, Ireland and Holland—His First Visit to America—Remarkable Deliverance on the Voyage—Travels and Gospel Labours in America.

I WAS born at a place called Lowmoor-house, in the parish of Dean and county of Cumberland, in the year 1659. My parents' names were Matthew and Jane Dickinson, who being convinced of the Truth, educated me in the way thereof; and the Lord, by his power, did reach unto me when very young, and often broke my heart into true tenderness, so that many times I had a secret delight to be inwardly retired to feel the virtue of it; which was cause of true gladness to my parents, whose delight was in the enjoyment of the Lord's presence. They were good examples to their children, educating them in the way of righteousness: often exhorting us with tears to fear the Lord, sincerely desiring that their children might be his. My testimony for them is they discharged themselves to their children.

When I was about seven years of age, it pleased the Lord to remove my dear mother from the cares and troubles of this life. My father retained his integrity and zeal for God and his Truth, and his care still increased for his children's good, that they might grow up in the Truth; often admonishing us to fear the Lord, and to mind his light and grace that secretly reproved us for the wildness and the outgoings of our minds into vanity: so that I may say they are clear of us, and am satisfied they are entered into rest, and their works follow them.

My father died when I was ten years old; and I not taking the counsel of the wise man, namely, to take the counsel of my father, which was to mind the light or measure of grace given unto me, my mind was drawn out after the vain plays, customs, fashions, and will-worships of the world; in which state I continued some time. Yet the Lord by his power did many times reach my heart, and by the Spirit of his dear Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, reproved me for my vain conduct; many times calling me to return unto him from whom I had gone astray; whose power, in some measure, I had felt before to tender my heart. But not minding to turn at the reproofs of wisdom, I went on in rebellion against his blessed Spirit, and ran as with a multitude to do evil, into wildness and vanity; until the Lord in his mercy did visit my soul by his righteous judgments, and thereby turned my mirth into mourning, and joy into heaviness; and deep sorrow was my portion. Being warned to repent and turn to the Lord, a godly sorrow was begun, which I experienced to lead to true repentance. Then my familiars became my enemies, and I was a taunt and a bye-word to them: yet still, as I loved the Lord in the way of his judgments, and waited upon him to know the way of them, I found the Lord to give victory, and saw my greatest enemies were those of my own house, and the war begun there. And as I was careful to keep in the light, I came to see the kingdom rent from Saul, and given to David; though there was a long war between the house of Saul and the house of David: but as I kept my eye unto the Lord, I came to see the house of Saul to grow weaker and weaker, and the house of David stronger and stronger.

Yet many were the days of mourning and nights of sorrow my soul went under; that I may say, it was the day of Jacob's trouble and of Joseph's affliction: many times I cried unto the Lord, 'O that I had a cave in the ground, that I might mourn out my days, that in the end I might find peace with you!' And in those deep afflictions and exercises, the Lord was very near, and often mixed mercy with judgment; so that my soul began to delight to wait upon him in the way of his judgment, seeing it was by the spirit of judgment and burning, that the filth of the daughter of Zion must be done away. As I kept here, I felt the love of God to increase in my soul, which deeply affected me; and a hunger was increased in my heart after the enjoyment of the Lord's power, and the operation of it, whether it was in mercy or judgment; so I knew my faith to be increased in the sufficiency of the power of God. Then I saw it was good for me that I was afflicted; for “before I was afflicted I went astray;” I found (as David said) his rod and his staff comforted me; and the Lord did often overshadow me with his love, and a sight of glorious things I had at that time.

I also had a vision, in which I beheld a sheep feeding in a very green pasture, by a pleasant river-side; and a wicked man, that envied the sheep, came and forced it into the river, and the sheep made for the other side; but a bridge being over the river, the man went over it and drove the sheep in again, and so resolved to drown it. When the sheep was almost lost, I saw a good man, that was the owner of the sheep, who caught hold and saved it and brought it into the pasture again; after which I saw the two men striving upon the bridge; and he who saved the sheep prevailed, and smote the other, and threw him into the river in which he would have drowned the sheep and it took him away.

After this, great was my exercise, tossing and struggling with the power of darkness being unskilful, and not grown in strength to resist the evil one, he gained ground upon me, and would have filled me with doubts and fears, so that I was ready to conclude I should never get through; but, with David, was like to say, “I shall now perish one day by the hand of Saul.” And when I had almost lost the hope of deliverance, then the Lord appeared by his mighty power, and rebuked the enemy, and delivered my soul from him that was too strong for me; he drew me out of the troubled waters, and brought my mind into true stillness, and to the proper place of right waiting upon him, where I found my strength to be renewed; and the overshadowing of his power I often felt to my great comfort, so that I was made to admire his goodness.

In the year 1678, the Lord moved upon me by his Spirit to bear a testimony to his name and Truth. Great then was my exercise: seeing the work to be very weighty, and looking out at my own weakness, made me unwilling to give up to answer the Lord's requirings; but the Lord, in his great love, filled my soul with the emanations of his power, which strengthened and encouraged me, that I was made willing to give up in obedience unto his divine will. Then in great dread and fear I stood up, and bore a public testimony in our own meeting, warning Friends to be more inward and faithful to the manifestations of the light and grace of God in their souls. And after I had answered the requirings of the Lord, I found great peace flowing in my soul, which so prevailed upon my spirit, that I was bowed down under the sense of the Lord's goodness; and the weight of the exercise which I had felt upon me was removed.

One morning, as I was meditating on the great love and mercy of God unto my soul, the word of the Lord came unto me saying. Be bold and courageous for my name's sake, and I will raise you up; and shortly after he moved upon me to go to Talentire, to the Presbyterians' meeting. I was under a continual exercise for several days and nights, so that I could scarcely either eat or sleep; and the word of the Lord was as a fire in my bones, that I had no peace till I had given up to it: so I went, and the Lord was with me, and showed me what I had to do. When I came into the meeting at Talentire, I stood amongst them in great fear and dread; and immediately the people began to say, I was a Quaker, and was come to disturb the meeting: some cried, 'put him forth,' others, 'let him alone;' so they were divided, as the multitude amongst whom Paul was concerned to preach the gospel. Some pulled to have me out, and others seemed to stop them. But they put me out, and shut the door, and many people followed me. I stood up amongst them at the window, and delivered the message I had to them, which was, “This is the day of the visitation and the revelation of the power and Spirit of Christ in your hearts; therefore resist not the day of the visitation and revelation of God's Spirit; for if you do, it will rise up in judgment against you, when you will not be able to resist.” After I had thus spoken, they ran to me and threw me down, dragged my head against the stones, and put me out of the gate. Then I spoke to them; but two of them came and haled me down the street. And finding myself clear, I said, “Your blood be upon your own heads, for I am clear of it.” So I came away in great peace of mind, being sensible of the overshadowing of the love of God, and was filled with praises unto his most holy name.

And soon after, the Lord by his Spirit moved upon me to go to the Baptists' meeting at Broughton; unto which I gave up; and the Lord was with me to my consolation. So I went, in obedience to the will of the Lord, into their meeting, and staid a considerable time, until the preacher, who was a stranger, made a stop: then I spoke, and desired liberty to clear myself among them; after which I directed the people to the light of Christ Jesus. John Palmer the elder bid me begone out of his house, and commanded his son to put me forth; so he took me by the shoulders and pushed me out at the door, and kept me there till the meeting was ended. Then I went in again, and preached unto them the light of Christ Jesus that shined in their hearts, in order to give them the knowledge of the glory of God. Thus, although I was thrust out of doors, yet the Lord made way for me to clear myself of the weight that was upon me, blessed be his name forever.

But great was the confusion that soon appeared, many of them speaking all at once; some asking, What beast was that which was come amongst them? Others answered. It was none, but a man or a boy. But the Lord was with me in my testimony, and by the effusion of his power gave me dominion over the unclean spirits; and the witness of God in the hearts of several, was reached, who soon after came out from amongst them, and received the Truth in the love of it, namely, John Ribton, who came to be a minister of the gospel, and several others. And when I was clear I came away, and witnessed that saying to he fulfilled. Psalm 119:165, “Great peace have they which love your law, and nothing shall offend them.”

After some time, the Lord engaged me to visit Friends in this county; and as I gave up in obedience thereto, I witnessed the renewings of divine love in my heart, which was cause of joy and true gladness to my soul. In my return home, a concern came upon me to go and speak to George Larkham, a Presbyterian preacher, at Talentire; which brought a fresh exercise upon my mind, because I was unwilling to answer what the Lord required of me, insomuch that my natural strength was almost taken from me: then I was made willing to do whatsoever the Lord required of me. So I went, in the fear of the Lord, into George Larkham's house. As soon as he saw me he was in great fury and rage, and asked me what business I had there? I told him my business was to clear my conscience in the sight of God, which I desired he would suffer me to do;—but he in great rage ran into an upper room and ordered me to be put out, for I was a Quaker: his wife being also in a great passion, said, there was a great fault of the magistrates, in not putting such fellows as I in the stocks; which showed the bitterness of her spirit, and that she only lacked power to follow the example, and imitate the barbarity of her brethren in New England. Then George Larkham came down in great fury, and asked why they had not put me forth? I desired him, if he was a Christian, to show his moderation as a Christian. Then he charged me with saying that he was no Christian; which I told him was false. He said, some of my persuasion had said it; so I bid him charge them with it, and not me falsely. Then he took me by the shoulders and thrust me out of the house, as his followers had done before: and as I was going out I spoke to him what I had upon my mind. So I came away in much peace, feeling the Lord to overshadow me with his living presence, which filled my heart with praises to his great name.

In the year 1680, I felt the Lord, by his power, to draw me forth to visit Friends in Westmoreland, the dales of Yorkshire, the bishoprick of Durham and Northumberland; in which journey the Lord was merciful unto me, in preserving and giving me my life for a prey. Great was the zeal that was raised in me for the Truth, and against anything that was contrary to and opposed it. This was a time when Friends were under great exercises and deep sufferings, by reason of wicked and ungodly men; for many were imprisoned, fined, and had their goods taken from them, for no other reason but performing their religious duties to Almighty God, in worshipping him in spirit and in truth: although no informers came to any of the meetings appointed by me, in all my journey through Westmoreland, etc., which bowed my mind in true thankfulness unto the God of heaven and earth, for his merciful preservation and divine protection.

In the year 1682, a concern was upon me from the Lord, to go into Ireland in the service of the Truth, under which I laboured for some time. Thomas Wilson, a young man from Coldbeck, was at our week-day meeting, as he was going to visit Friends in Ireland: and although I did not acquaint him with what was upon my mind, yet after he was gone, my exercise increased upon me to such a degree, that I freely gave up unto the manifestations of God's will revealed to me. Then I acquainted my brethren therewith, and they had unity with me therein, believing the Lord had called me thereunto. So I took leave of them in much tenderness in the love of God, took shipping at Workington for Ireland, and arrived safe at Dublin.

The next day I went to their meeting; and the Lord by his ancient goodness did eminently break in amongst us, and refreshed our souls with his divine love, which brought me under a renewed obligation to celebrate his great name, who had preserved me both by sea and land. After the meeting I went into the country, and visited Friends' meetings until I came into the county of Wexford, where I met with Thomas Wilson; and our concerns being one way, we travelled together through the provinces of Leinster and Munster, in great humility, godly fear and true brotherly love; our hearts being often tendered in meetings, and the hearts of Friends also, in most places where we came. So being clear of those parts, my companion staid at Waterford, and I went north, and had several meetings amongst people that professed not with us; and several were convinced.

Now finding myself clear of the north, I returned to Dublin, and had some service in that city; so took shipping for Whitehaven. In our voyage, near the Isle of Man, we had a great storm and were in danger; but through the good providence of God we got to land in Wales, where I had some service for the Truth; after which, we proceeded on our voyage, and arrived safe at Whitehaven; so went home, being truly thankful unto the Lord for his manifold preservations both by sea and land.

In the year 1683, I felt drawings in my mind to visit Friends in Scotland; and being resigned to answer what I believed was required of me, I took my journey on foot, not having any companion; yet the love of God was such in my heart, that I freely gave up to follow him. When I was in the Border, a young man belonging to that meeting had a concern to go along with me, whose company was both serviceable and acceptable; our unity was sweet and pleasant in the Lord. We travelled on foot through the south, and the Lord was with us and enabled us to perform our services. Then we passed into the north to Aberdeen, etc., where we met with our friends George Rook and Andrew Taylor. We were at several meetings together, and were sweetly comforted in the Lord and one another. We had a meeting on board a ship that was bound for Jersey in America, there being several Friends on board that were passengers. After the meeting, we took leave of them in the love of God; so travelled through the north, and had many refreshing seasons in the enjoyment of God's love; several hearts were reached and some convinced. When we were clear, we returned into the west and visited Friends there; so returned into England as with sheaves in our bosoms, which occasioned praises to spring in our hearts to the Lord.

Some time after, I was drawn forth to visit Friends in the north of England, and proceeding into Westmoreland; at Kendal I met with my dear companion, Thomas Wilson, who was my fellow-labourer in the work of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. We had a meeting there, and it being a time of great persecution, many Friends suffered deeply by wicked and unreasonable men; but the Lord supported us in the time of exercises. A little after we were gone into the meeting, the officers came and were very rude: Thomas Wilson stood up and preached the gospel in the authority of the power of God, which mightily affected the hearts of Friends: then one of the officers came and pulled him out of the meeting, and kept him there: after which I was engaged in the love of God, and stood up and bore a testimony to his name and Truth. Then the officers said, “There is another preaching; they will never be quiet so long as any are left in the house.” So they took me forth also, and kept us a little time, but suffered us to go into the meeting again; and we sat down and waited upon the Lord. Some time after, I was engaged in prayer: they came rushing in to pull me away again, but the power of the Lord was over all, which so chained down that persecuting spirit, that they had not power to break up our meeting; but were frustrated, and the name of our God exalted, and set over the opposers; many, of their hearts were reached by his divine power: thus we saw that saying fulfilled, “When a man's ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.”—Prov. 16:7. Then I parted with my companion and went into Lancashire and the edge of Yorkshire, where several were convinced at that time. Finding myself clear, I returned home and followed my trade, which was that of a felt-monger, and was diligent in attending our own meetings, in which I had peace and inward satisfaction of soul.

In the year 1684, I with my companion Thomas Wilson, travelled through Lancashire and Cheshire into Wales. Friends were still under deep exercises by reason of the persecuting spirit which was risen up against the church of God, insomuch that Friends were often imprisoned, fined, and had their goods taken from them. But we were drawn forth by the love of God, who sets bounds to the waters and rebukes the seas; causes the horn of the wicked to be broken, and restrains the remainder of the wrath of man, when he has suffered the rod of the wicked to be laid upon the back of the righteous for a season, for a trial of their faith, that it may appear much more precious than that of gold; that by it, they may live through all, and follow the Lamb through many tribulations, and know their garments washed in his precious blood. Blessed be the Lord, we were made witnesses of his divine power in our travels, both inwardly and outwardly.

We entered into North Wales in the depth of winter; and all things were made pleasant unto us in the love of God, which we were measurably made partakers of. At the first meeting we had in Wales the Lord did eminently appear amongst us, and filled our hearts with praises unto his holy name. So we travelled through North Wales, and had good service for the Truth. Robert Vahan was there convinced of the Truth, and became a very serviceable man, being afterwards called to the work of the ministry. Then we went into South Wales to Haverfordwest, and had good service there among the people. In all this way, no informers came to any of our meetings, until we came to Redstone in Pembrokeshire; there we had a meeting, unto which came two informers. My companion was preaching the word of the Lord to the people when they came in: one of them came to take him out of the meeting, but the Lord restrained him: so he went on, and the Lord was effectually with him by his irresistible power; and in much plainness and tenderness he set the testimony of Truth over their heads. After he had cleared himself he sat down: then the informer swore a great oath, and said, “There should not be another word spoken there:” but finding my heart engaged in the love of God to pray to Him, and implore his divine assistance, the informer came to pull me away, but he could not; for the Lord by his power restrained him, and set his Truth over the heads of the opposers. Friends' spirits were raised into dominion over the adversary and his instruments, the meeting ended in praising and giving of thanks unto the Lord, and we came away in sweet peace. We may say, the Lord fulfilled the promise made to Jerusalem, unto us, “That he would be unto her a wall of fire round about, and the glory in the midst of her;”—Zech. 2:5. for the overshadowing of his love was with us, and we had many precious meetings in those parts.

Then we went to Swansea and had service there; persuading the people to be reconciled to God and one to another. So came into North Wales, where I parted with my companion; he returned home; but I having a concern upon me to visit Friends in Ireland, went through the north into the Isle of Anglesea, and took shipping at Holyhead for Dublin. Having a fair wind, we had a prosperous voyage, until we got Over the bar of Dublin; then a great storm arose, the vessel struck ground, and we were in danger of being wrecked; but the Lord ordered it otherwise. So I got safe to Dublin, which filled my heart with thankfulness to the Almighty for so wonderfully preserving us. John Burnyeat landed in the north of Ireland, through great danger, at the same time; it was such a storm, that few vessels got to Ireland for two weeks after. Then in obedience to the will of God, I went into Leinster and visited Friends, where I met with Thomas Trafford,[1] who travelled through Munster with me. I had a general warning to Friends, to be careful that they might have a habitation and settlement in the power of God; for a time of trial would come upon them, that would try all their foundations; and none would be able to stand, nor be safe, but those that should be settled upon the Rock, Christ Jesus, and gathered under his peaceable government; those would know a dwelling safely, and a being quiet from the fear of evil.[2] And as the Lord gave the word, he also gave power and strength to publish it. It seized upon my spirit when I was in that nation before, that a day of trial would be brought upon the inhabitants thereof; I beheld as if they were encompassed with weapons of war. Having cleared myself, I returned to Dublin, and took shipping for Whitehaven, where I landed safely, and came home as with sheaves in my bosom; feeling the evidence of God's Spirit speaking peace to me, which my soul desired more than all.

In the year 1686, I was moved of the Lord to travel into the west and south parts of England; and as I was drawn by his Holy Spirit, I was made willing to follow him, in which I found true peace; and as my eye was kept single, every day waiting for the motion of the word of life, I found the Lord to fit and qualify me for every day's service, and endue with power from on high. So I took my journey through several counties: and when I came to Bristol, I found Friends were under great sufferings; being kept out of their meeting-house, the meeting was held in the yard: it consisted mostly of women and children, many Friends being then in prison; yet the Lord was graciously pleased to own us with the over-shadowings of his love, whereby we were encouraged to trust in Him alone, who is able to preserve his people in the midst of afflictions, and work their deliverance at his own pleasure.

From Bristol I went into Cornwall, and had several meetings in places and towns where none had been before, and found great openness among the people. At Newlyn and Mousehole they threatened to stone me; but the Lord restrained them, and enabled me to preach the way of life and salvation in the authority and power of God, by which many hearts were reached, and a love raised in the people. I came away in peace, and returned into Devonshire, where I had a meeting in the street at a town called Kirton: there were many hundreds of people, some of whom were very sober and attentive; but others behaved very rudely and cast stones at me, which was occasioned by the instigation of a priest, who advised them to stone me out of town, (as I was told afterwards,) but the Lord preserved me from harm, and gave me courage and boldness to proclaim the everlasting Gospel amongst them; his power was richly made manifest, and many hearts were reached thereby; several were convinced of the Truth, and a meeting was afterwards settled in that town.

The next day I had a meeting at a place not far distant, where were many sober people; but a constable came and took me, and carried me before one Justice Tuckfield, who said he was informed that I had kept a conventicle, contrary to law. I asked, “Who informed him?” He replied, “I suppose you cannot deny it.” I told him. “The law did not enjoin any man to be his own accuser.” Then in a very mild manner he said, “The constable informed him;”—at which the constable was a little confused, and appeared ashamed to be called an informer by the justice.

After some discourse, the justice spoke kindly to me, and said he would show me all the favour he could, and if I had anything further to speak, he was willing to hear me.—I replied, “I am glad that I am brought before a magistrate so willing to hear, and from whom I expect justice;”—which accordingly I had. I spoke what the Lord opened in my heart to him and the rest of the family, who seemed to be much affected therewith. Then he gave me my liberty, and prayed that God might go along with me wheresoever I went. Thus I came to witness that saying of Christ Jesus our Lord to be fulfilled, which he spoke to his disciples: “You shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what you shall speak, for it shall be given you in that same hour what you shall speak. For it is not you that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaks in you.”—Matt. 10:18-20. So I may say, the Lord is the same unto all that he sends forth, (though as lambs among wolves,) and is mouth and wisdom to his little ones; goes along with them, and bears them up in all exercises, blessed be his name forever.

Then I came into Somersetshire and had many blessed meetings: several were convinced of the Truth: I also went to Bristol. The storm of persecution being somewhat abated, Friends who had been in prison were set at liberty: we had very large meetings, and the Lord, by his infinite love, was graciously pleased to manifest his power among us, by which our hearts were tendered before him. It was a day of God's visitation to the inhabitants of that city; many hearts were reached, several were convinced and received the Truth. So being clear of the city I went into Wiltshire, where a crafty, wicked spirit had been at work among Friends, which had separated several from God, his church and people; among whom I laboured for the reconciling and bringing of them unto God again: and the Lord, by his Spirit, enabled me to bear my testimony, and the hearts of several were reached and helped thereby. When I had visited Friends in that county, I appointed a meeting to take my leave of them; and several of the Separatists were there, under whose dark spirits my soul had been much oppressed, and travailed in heaviness and sorrow, which made me cry unto the Lord for deliverance; and He, that never said unto the seed of Jacob, “Seek my face in vain,” heard and answered; He bore up my spirit in deep afflictions, and gave me ability to clear myself, and place judgment upon that rending spirit which was lifted up above the pure fear of God; so that I came away in great peace, having my heart filled with praises unto the Lord.

Then I travelled into Dorsetshire, visited Friends in that county, and had good service; several were convinced of the Truth. Finding my heart engaged in the love of God to visit the inhabitants of the Isle of Portland, in obedience to the Lord's requirings I went, several Friends from Weymouth accompanying me. We had a meeting there, to which several of the inhabitants came: the house not being large enough to contain them, we kept the meeting without doors; and when I was bowed down in prayer unto the Lord, a constable came and dragged me from off my knees, with an intent to have cast me into a deep pool of water; but the people would not suffer him: so he left me, and I continued supplicating the name of the Lord. After I arose from prayer, I was engaged in the love of God to bear a testimony among the people; when the constable came again, and dragged me from among them, cast me down among stones, and bruised my body to the shedding of my blood, beat me upon my breast with his fist, and said, “If I would not go out of the island, he would put me in the stocks,”—and was going to do so, but was hindered by another man. Then the people gathered about me, and I exhorted them to fear the Lord; which so enraged the constable, that he took hold of me, and hit me several blows upon my breast, and dragged me away, abusing me both with hands and tongue until he had wearied himself: then he commanded six idle, drunken men, to drag me away, who took me by the legs and arms, and dragged my head against the stones, whereby I lost much blood.

Many of the people followed weeping, being troubled to see me so much abused; for some of my blood was upon all those that laid violent hands upon me. Then the constable came again, and struck me several times; thus they continued dragging and beating me until I was scarcely able to stand, but as I was supported by two Friends. many concluded I was killed; but the Lord made it very easy to me by the sweetness of his love, with which my heart was filled to the inhabitants of that island; so that I heartily desired the Lord would forgive those that had done me most harm. Many hearts were reached that day by the power of God.

After the meeting was over, I returned to Weymouth, and had a meeting there that night, to which several of the inhabitants came, and a blessed heavenly meeting we had; the Lord's power and presence being manifested amongst us, to the refreshing and comforting of our souls. From there I travelled to Ringwood and Southampton, and into the Isle of Wight, where I had some service among the people; then through Hampshire and Surrey, visiting Friends' meetings all along until I came to London, where I had a comfortable time among Friends.

After I had visited Friends in that city, I went into Kent, and laboured in the work of the gospel in that ability God gave to me, in which I found true peace; and many were convinced. From there I went into Sussex, and when I had visited Friends there, returned to London. After some stay there, I travelled into Essex, Suffolk, and Norfolk; and the Lord largely manifested his love to me, by which I was enabled to perform the work and service he had called me unto; so that I found my heart to be daily engaged to follow him in the way of his requirings. Then I went to Norwich, where Friends had undergone much persecution and imprisonment, but then had some liberty: many people cam.e to our meetings, and were very open to receive the testimony of Truth. I had several comfortable meetings among God's suffering children.

After I had travelled through several parts, I returned to London again; where I met with my brethren, who came from several parts of this nation to attend the yearly meeting. The glory of the Lord 'was richly manifested amongst us, and opened our hearts unto him and one unto another. Many living testimonies were borne to his great name; so that I may say, it was like the time of Pentecost, when the disciples of Christ were met, and filled with the Holy Spirit; for we were met with one accord, and our hearts were truly tendered in the love of God; whereby we were enabled to offer unto him the sacrifice of broken hearts, acceptable and well-pleasing in his sight, who is God, blessed forever.

Having for some time, had drawings in my mind to visit Friends in Holland, and some parts adjacent, I took my journey from London along with Peter Fearon,[3] who had the like concern. We went to Colchester, and from there to Harwich, where we took shipping: and it was showed me we should meet with some exercise on the coast of Holland; which accordingly we did. For after we made land, we took up a ship that was turned adrift, which had neither men nor goods in her, a Turkish pirate having taken both. Soon after, we came in sight of the Turkish vessel, which made after us; and our men began to be afraid, and altered their course, in order to make for a point of land that was in sight; for the master said, he would venture our lives and the ship before we should be taken captives by the Turks. My mind being inwardly retired to the Lord, he showed me, he would not suffer them to harm us; and that was the strait, which I had a sight, we should meet with. So I desired the master to alter his course and stand for the harbour; but he was very unwilling; although, after some entreaty, he gave orders to bear up the helm and steer for the harbour. Then the Turks altered their course, and we escaped, and got safe to our desired port at the Brill; having seen the Lord's power made manifest in preserving us from the hands of unreasonable men; which brought us under a renewed obligation to bless and praise his name.

The next day, we took our journey for Rotterdam, and the day following had a meeting there, and spoke to the people by an interpreter, which was something hard for us; yet the Lord, who called us into his service, fitted us for it by his living power, and was effectually with us to the bearing up of our spirits, and settling them into such a frame as the service required.

After the meeting was ended, we took our journey to Amsterdam, arid were there at the time of the yearly meeting. We had many heavenly seasons together; the Lord overshadowed us with his love; and in that, our hearts were bound up with him, and one with another. In that city we had much exercise of spirit; for many people resorted there from several parts, and some were reached by the Truth. And after the meetings w'ere over, the interpreter told me of a city called Horn, in which there was a people inquiring after (the Truth; which I was glad of, for I had a concern for the place before I left my outward habitation. So we took our journey to Alkmaer, and had a meeting there; then went to Horn, where we were gladly received by a sober people, who had never been visited by Friends before, and were willing to have a meeting with us. A meeting was held accordingly, and the Lord favoured us with his heavenly power, whereby we were enabled to proclaim the everlasting gospel amongst them; which so affected their hearts that several confessed to the Truth. We came away in peace, took our voyage for Friesland, and travelled through it, having several meetings amongst the people: the Lord's heavenly power and presence still attended, and preserved us both by sea and land; for which we were truly thankful to him, who is God worthy forever.

Then we went to Groningen; also to Embden, and had a meeting there, to which many of the magistrates came. When we were clear of that city, we returned back to Amsterdam; and the Lord was pleased to go along with us, and sweetened all our exercises, I went to the Jews' Synagogue, and had a dispute with one of them in the audience of the people. He acknowledged what I spoke was true: I was concerned to speak of the new covenant which God promised he would make with the house of Judah and Israel, Jeremiah 31:33, that He would write his law in their hearts, and put his Spirit in their minds; and the law is light, and the commandment a lamp, and the reproof of instruction is the way of life. Then I asked him, if he did not find something in the secret of his heart which reproved him for sin? He owned that he did. I told him, that was the appearance of the Spirit of Christ, which reproves for sin and unbelief. Then he asked me if the law was not good, and what I thought concerning their worship? I answered, I may say, as the Queen of Sheba said, when she went to see the wisdom of Solomon, and the order that was in his house, that one half was not told her; so though I had heard of their rudeness and lightness in their devotion, yet one half was not told me, of what my eyes had seen that day. I reproved them for it, and came away in much peace.

Then we came to Rotterdam, and took shipping for Colchester in England. In our voyage we were in danger by reason of a great storm; but we saw the wonders of the Lord wrought for our deliverance, and got safe to our intended port; so that we may say, the Lord is large in his love, and of great kindness to them that are truly given up to follow him. Then we travelled to London, where we had deep exercises with several bad spirits; but the Lord was with us, and enabled us to bear our testimonies against them, and for the Truth, and those that lived in obedience thereunto; amongst whom we were truly comforted, finding Truth to prevail and righteousness to flourish, which was what our souls travailed for.

Having cleared ourselves of that city, we proceeded to Reading, and had some service there; at which place I parted with my companion; then travelled into Oxfordshire, and visited Friends: the sweetness of the love of God was felt in their assemblies, which occasioned praises to be sounded forth to his name. From there I went to Bristol and Ross; also to Monmouth, where I had a meeting in the market house, to which many people came: some were very rude and cast a fire-ball at me; but the Lord by his power preserved us, so that it did neither me nor any there harm. He gave me power to proclaim his everlasting gospel, and enabled me to set the testimony of Truth over the heads of the opposers of it; so that they became very sober, and I had time to clear myself amongst them. After the meeting was over, they desired me to have another, and said I should have no disturbance: but finding myself clear, I went from there and travelled through South Wales, visiting Friends' meetings; and the Lord was with me to my great comfort. Then I went to Cardigan along with another Friend; and we had a meeting in the Sessions House, to which came the mayor, aldermen, and several people of the town. The Lord was with us, and gave strength and ability to proclaim the gospel amongst them; by which several hearts were tendered and reached; many confessed to the Truth and invited us to their houses. We went to visit them, and had a dispute with a high professor, relating to our principles and doctrine: the Lord stood by us, and gave us wisdom to answer such things as were objected against us; and the people went away generally well satisfied. After this meeting, I travelled into North Wales, and visited Friends; and was refreshed amongst them in the love of God. At Dolobran I met with Thomas Wilson and William Greenup, who were travelling towards Bristol; we had several meetings together, and were sweetly refreshed in the love of God; after which I returned home and staid some time.

Then finding my heart engaged to visit Friends in Yorkshire, I went in company with another Friend to York, where I had many precious meetings; and a concern came upon me to visit those that had gone out from amongst Friends into a contentious spirit. In obedience to the Lord's requirings I went; and warned' them to repent and return unto the Lord while he strove with them, lest their day of visitation should pass over, and it might be said, as it was to Ephraim, “Let him alone, he is joined unto idols:” but it may be said of them as it was of some of old, that “they went out from us, because they were not of us, for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us; but they went out, that they might be made manifest they were not all of us.” After I had cleared myself, I came away in true peace of soul, travelled through the east of Yorkshire, Durham, and Northumberland, and visited Friends; then returned home, and had many precious meetings amongst my brethren in the love of God.

Some time after, I had a concern upon me to visit the churches of Christ in the nation of Ireland: so I went to Whitehaven, and took shipping for Dublin. The ship's company were high professors, and there was also a Presbyterian preacher on board. They began to reflect against Friends and their principles; but the Lord gave me wisdom and ability to set the Truth over their heads, and to prove our principles by Scripture; which bowed me in thankfulness to the Lord, who never forsakes those that are truly concerned for his Truth and glory; but bears up their spirits in all exercises, and carries them through to the exaltation of his own name. We landed safe at Dublin, where I met with my dear companion Thomas Wilson, and many other travelling Friends from several parts of the nation, who were come to the half-year's meeting, which was very large: a blessed, heavenly meeting we had, in the enjoyment of God's love. Friends being in sweet unity one with another. Our hearts were filled with joy and gladness; and many living testimonies were borne, with heavenly exhortations one to another, to be faithful and walk worthy of the Lord's tender mercies; that so they might be continued unto us, and we in the enjoyment of them, might grow in the life of righteousness as God's heritage and husbandry, and bring forth fruits to his honour. After several days spent in such exhortations, and taking inspection into the state and affairs of the churches of Christ the nation over, the meeting ended in a sense of God's love, with hearts full of praises to his holy name.

After the meeting I travelled through Wicklow and Wexford, to the provincial meeting at Limerick; and the Lord was graciously pleased to go along with me, and strengthened me with his living presence, whereby I was enabled to answer his requirings. From there I returned to the provincial meeting at Rosenallis, where I met with John Burnyeat, who was as a tender nursing father to me: we had many heavenly seasons together. I travelled into the north, where I visited Friends, and laboured in that ability God gave me; warning and cautioning people to repent, and turn to the Lord while the day of their visitation lasted; advising Friends to faithfulness, and to mind their settlement in the Lord's power, that would remain when all other things might fail. Then finding myself clear, I returned to Dublin, and took shipping for Whitehaven, where I arrived safely and staid some time.

Afterwards I went into North Wales, having another Friend in the ministry along with me; and the Lord enabled us to proclaim his everlasting gospel, whereby many hearts were reached, and the churches of Christ confirmed. When we had visited North Wales, we travelled into the south parts; into Pembrokeshire, Glamorganshire, Monmouthshire, and so to Bristol, Somersetshire, Devonshire, and Cornwall; and had good service. Great exercises attended us in various respects; the nation was in confusion by reason of the revolution of government, which happened at that time, and the devouring sword was drawn; but the Lord in mercy, to the people, restrained it. We laboured in the love of God amongst them, for the turning of their minds to the light of Christ Jesus; that thereby they might come to know him to rule over them, and that Scripture fulfilled, that though “every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire. For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace; of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”—Isa. 9:5-7. Blessed be the name of our God, many can say he rules in their hearts, and is teaching the same lesson now by his Spirit, that he taught his followers when in that prepared body, even to love and pray for their enemies; and these know his kingdom (as he said himself,) not to be of this world, therefore they cannot fight; but are subject to the royal law, to do to all men as they would be done by. In this peaceable spirit we travelled, and laboured to preach the gospel in many parts of this nation. So came to London to the yearly meeting, where Friends from several parts were; and the Lord, by his heavenly power, overshadowed our souls, and opened the fountain of wisdom amongst us, which was in many as deep waters, and flowed through them to the refreshing of God's heritage; in a sense of which the meeting ended. After we had travelled through Sussex and Kent, I, with my companion, returned to York, and was at the yearly meeting there; then went home, where I staid some time.

Finding drawings in my mind to visit the churches of Christ in the east of England, I travelled into Lincolnshire, and some other parts; then into Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Warwickshire, Gloucestershire, and so to Bristol, where I met with my companion Thomas Wilson. We travelled together as far as the Land's End, and had good service in several places, having meetings in towns where none had been before. I came back by Bristol, into WaleSj through Gloucestershire; and through some parts of Oxfordshire, by London to Surrey, and Hampshire. After I had visited Friends in those counties, I returned to London to the yearly meeting, where I met with many brethren; and we were comforted in the Lord, and had sweet unity and concord together. After the meeting, dear John Tiffin,[4] a Friend in the ministry, and I, travelled through Berkshire and Wiltshire to Bristol; from where we returned home in peace, with true thankfulness for the Lord's continued favours.

In the year 1690, I had a concern upon me to visit Friends in Scotland, and in company with another Friend, travelled into the west, where we had good service. Then we crossed through the country to Edinburgh, where many hearts were reached by the Truth. From there we went down into the north to Robert Barclay's at Ury; he travelled to Aberdeen with us, and through the north and visited Friends. It was a time when there were great troubles in the nation, but the Lord preserved us every way; and we returned to Robert Barclay's house to a general meeting. At that time, dear Robert Barclay took the sickness, of which a few days after we left his house, he died. I was thereby sorrowfully affected, in consideration of the loss the nation would have of him; but our loss is his everlasting gain.[5]

After having travelled and laboured in the work of the gospel, through many dangers both inward and outward, we returned home as with sheaves in our bosoms; being truly thankful unto the Lord, in that he had preserved us out of the hands of unreasonable men, and assisted us by his Spirit to answer his requirings: we found true peace to flow, and a willingness wrought in our hearts to follow Him wherever He was pleased to draw us, who is known to go in and out before his people; blessed be his name forever.

On the 23rd of the eleventh month 1690, I took my journey for London. At Swarthmore, I met with the tidings of the removal of our dear friend George Fox, which occasioned deep sorrow in my heart: but when I turned my mind to the Lord, I found he had done the work of his day, and was gone to rest; and we must be content; and they would be happy that followed his footsteps. I proceeded to London, visiting Friends as I went; from there to Kingston, where I met with my companion Thomas Wilson. We returned to London, and afterwards went into Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, and had good service for the Truth: then returned to London again, where we staid the yearly meeting, and were truly refreshed in the love of God with our faithful brethren.

After the yearly meeting, I, with my dear companion Thomas Wilson, took our voyage for Barbadoes; a concern having been upon me for many years, to visit Friends in America. The fullness of time being come, a willingness was wrought in my heart through the power of God, that I freely gave up to answer his requirings; having experience he had not failed to help in the midst of imminent dangers: such were very apparent at that time, the English and French being at war. We left London on the 13th of the fourth month, 1691. Many Friends accompanied us down to Gravesend, where we had a meeting next day, and took our leave of Friends in much love and tenderness. The day following we went on board the ship and sailed to the Downs, where we (staying some days for the fleet,) went ashore and had several precious meetings: the Lord's power was manifested to our great comfort; by which we were made willing to take our lives as in our hands, leave our native country, and all in this world that was near to us, in obedience 1o his pure will.

From hence we set sail, and touched at Plymouth and Falmouth, where we went ashore and had several precious meetings: the Lord's wonted presence was witnessed, and we were comforted with our Friends; praises be to his holy name forever. We set sail from Falmouth on the 9th of the fifth month, and lost sight of land that night, being eighteen sail in company. After we had sailed a few days, we met with the French fleet, consisting of sixty or more vessels: they came up with us, fired several times at us, and laboured to compass us round; so that there seemed little or no hopes for any of us to escape. But our cries and supplications were to the Lord, by whom deliverance comes, and true help is known in the time of need: and he, in this strait, made manifest his power; and in an unexpected way to the eye of reason, deliverance came. We were not so much concerned for the loss of anything in this world, or the cruelty they would inflict upon us, as for the honour and reputation of his Truth; lest the enemies thereof should falsely vaunt themselves and say, that God whom we served, was not able to save and carry us through in our service. But the Lord, who sees the sincerity of all hearts, showed his wonders; according to that saying of the Psalmist, “they that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters, these see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep:” for the Lord heard us and granted our request, when most of our visible hopes were gone. After all our fleet had struck and were taken by the French, except our ship and two others, and they were coming up to take ours, about the first hour in the afternoon, a thick fog came on and spread around us, which prevented them in their design. The fog continued for about four hours; then it became clear, and we discovered a large ship to windward, which was one of the French fleet. She bore down upon us; but before she got up with us, the fog came on again and encompassed us about: afterwards the night came on, and we saw her no more. Then, not only ourselves, but all the ship's crew, confessed it was the Lord's doings. Next day we espied two ships to leeward, to which we hoisted English colours, and they answered; being the two of our own company which had escaped the French.

When first-day came, the masters and several of their crews and passengers of the other two ships, came aboard ours, and we had a meeting on the quarter-deck: the Lord's power was with us, and Truth's testimony was declared amongst them: several confessed thereto; and our hearts were broken in a sense of God's love and wonderful mercies, that overshadowed our souls in secret retirement, upon the deep ocean. The captain of our ship was a very loving, kind man to us.

When we came into the latitude of Barbadoes, a ship to-windward bore down upon us, which our master took to be a French privateer. He made preparation to fight her, and ordered all the passengers but Thomas and I, to take their quarters; saying to us, 'As for you, I know it is contrary to your principle to fight; Lord forbid I should compel any man contrary to his conscience! take your quarters with the doctor;' at which the other passengers were angry. I told them, “To show it was not cowardice but conscience, we would take our quarters upon the quarter-deck;” which set the testimony of Truth over them, and they were quiet. When the ship came up with us, it proved an English vessel. We proceeded on our voyage, and landed at Bridgetown in Barbadoes, on the 24th of the sixth month. We found the hand of the Lord upon the inhabitants of that island, in visiting them with great sicknesses, of which many hundreds died. Our hearts being filled with the love of God, we were largely drawn forth to proclaim the everlasting gospel to the people; and although the sickness was very infectious, and many that went over with us died, yet the Lord preserved us, and we went on in our service: he was effectually with us, and by his power the inhabitants of the island were alarmed. People flocked to our meetings, and they were full and large; many were convinced. Friends confirmed, the mouths of gainsayers stopped, and the hearts of the faithful were made truly glad.

When we had travelled the island several times over, finding our spirits easy, we returned to Bridgetown; were at their general meeting, and had a fine season to take our leave of Friends; cautioning them to live in unity together, and to keep in the one Spirit, that would keep them in one mind; in which they would appear as lilies among thorns, and grow in the life of righteousness: in much tenderness the meeting ended. The ship being under sail, we went to the water side, many people accompanying us. We were broken and tendered together in the sense of God's love; and in much bowed-downness of spirit, our hearts were filled with praise and thanksgiving to the Lord God and the Lamb. We set sail for New York, on the 22nd of the eighth month, and had a comfortable voyage till we came near the coast of the main land, where we met with a north-west storm; but through some difficulty arrived in New York harbour, on the 23rd of the ninth month. From there we went to Long Island, and were at a general meeting, which was very large and full:, our hearts were knit together in the love of God and unity of the one Spirit. We visited Friends generally in the island, and found great openness to preach the gospel of salvation unto the inhabitants thereof; for the Lord was with us, and was pleased to be mouth and wisdom to us, for the convincing and settling of many upon the Rock, Christ Jesus, who is a sanctuary to his people, where they dwell safely, and are quiet from fear of evil.

Being clear of the island, we took boat at New York and passed over to East Jersey, where we had many heavenly meetings. After we had visited Friends in East and West Jersey, and had good service among the people, we went into Pennsylvania, where meetings were full and large. Our hearts were opened, and strength was given to publish the word of God: he bore up our spirits in deep exercises, in our inward wrestlings and outward travels. It was the depth of winter, and meetings were held without doors, sometimes when there was deep snow; the meeting-houses not being large enough to contain the people. There is a tender-hearted people in that country, who love the Lord: we laboured and travailed for their growth and settlement in the Truth. After having had many heavenly meetings among them, we felt pressed in our minds to get on our journey. We travelled through the woods and wilderness in deep snow; and passed through many dangers in crossing the rivers upon the ice, until we came to Chester river in Maryland. Here we met with a few Friends, and had a good meeting among them. From there we went down to Choptank, and visited Friends there; then took boat over Chesapeake bay to the western shore in Maryland. It was hard frost, and we had to wade deep among the ice to get forth of the boat, because the sands prevented it from coming to the shore.

Having got safely to land, we were the next day at their quarterly meeting; where we laboured for the stirring up of all to righteousness, and that nothing might be given way to, that brings a reproach to our holy profession and pollutes the camp of God; also that our unity might be kept in the bond of peace.

When we had visited Friends on that shore, we took boat to cross the bay again. Night coming on and a thick fog, we missed our course and w'ere cast upon an island; where we got to a house and lay on the ground among the negroes until next morning: then we set forward and got to the other side, and visited Friends. From there we travelled to the eastern shore in Virginia; having to pass over many dangerous rivers in boats and canoes. But the Lord still continued his mercies to us and his care over us, and many times manifested his power for our deliverance. Being clear of at side, we crossed Chesapeake bay to the western shore in Virginia with some difficulty, and landed from James river. Next day we took our journey, visited Friends, and had good service.

Then we proceeded through the wilderness to Carolina; where the floods were so great that we could not travel on horseback, but waded barefoot through swamps and waters for several miles. Friends and other people were glad to see us, they not having had any visit from a travelling Friend for several years before: we had many comfortable meetings among them.

After we were clear, we took our journey back through the wilderness to the general meeting at Chuckatuck in Virginia. We warned them to keep out of the superfluous fashions of the world, which had too much prevailed among many. The Lord, by his power, broke in upon the meeting, and the entrance of his word gave life: the weak were confirmed, the faithful comforted, and judgment placed upon the head of the transgressor and that spirit of separation which was among them.

After we were clear of those parts, we went towards the falls of James river; where we found a great openness among the people, several being convinced: we laboured in love for their settlement, in the Truth, and the blessed order thereof: they were very willing to hearken to counsel, and received us gladly. From there we went through the woods to Black creek—a place which had not been visited by Friends before—and had a meeting there; to which the sheriff and some officers with him came.

When I was declaring the Truth among the people, the sheriff asked me by whose authority I came there? I told him, “In the authority of the great God, to whom we must give an account.” After some discourse, he commanded us to leave the meeting. I desired him to show his moderation, and hear what we had to say; upon which, he and the officers went away, and we kept our meeting quietly, and several were reached by the Truth. After the meeting, we took our journey towards Maryland, and travelled about a hundred miles through the wilderness without a guide, except part of the first day. That night we lodged in the woods, where we made a fire against the cold, and to keep the wild beasts from us; it being in the first month, and very cold weather.

Next morning early we set forward, and travelled most part of the day. Near the evening we met with two men: one of them who was a justice, kindly invited us to his house, it being about ten miles distant: we went along with him, staid two or three days at his house, and had a meeting there: the justice was very loving and confessed to the Truth. Then we passed over Potomack river in a small Norway yawl, where I swam my horse three miles.

We travelled through the woods to Patuxent river; passed over to the western shore in Maryland, with much difficulty, danger, and charge; and had many comfortable meetings in those parts. We then crossed Chesapeake bay, and travelled hard to get to the yearly meeting at Salem in Jersey, which was held in the second month. Here we met Friends from most parts of the country; had many glorious meetings; and were livingly opened to proclaim the everlasting gospel and day of God's love to the mourners in Zion, encouragement to the weak and feeble, and judgment to the fat and full. The meeting ended in love and unity, and our hearts were filled with praises to the Lord.

After the meeting at Salem, we went, in much bowed-downness of spirit, to Philadelphia, where George Keith had drawn several out from Friends into a separate spirit, to the dishonour of Truth and themselves. But the Lord was pleased eminently to favour us with his power and presence: he was mouth and wisdom to us, and enabled us to set the testimony of Truth over all the opposers of it, so that many hearts were reached and confirmed therein. (For a more full account, see Thomas Wilson's Journal.) When we were clear of those parts, we set forward with several other Friends, to the yearly meeting on Long Island. We found Friends there in sweet unity, and had many heavenly meetings; many hearts were tendered by the Lord's power, and the meeting ended in a sense of his love. After having had meetings at several other places on the island,—to which many people flocked, and in which our hearts were opened to proclaim the gospel of life and salvation,—we took ship for Rhode Island, and landed there the day before the yearly meeting began. Friends received us in that love by which we were drawn to visit them. We were many times favoured with the flowings of the pure life: the Lord overshadowed our souls, opened the fountain of his wisdom, and caused his doctrine to drop as the dew. The faithful were comforted, the careless awakened, and the wicked warned to repent. Friends were stirred up to keep to the heavenly order of the gospel; to support their testimonies in the life of Truth; to be careful to watch over one another for good; to keep in the love of God; and to train up their children in the way of Truth. When we had thus laboured and eased our spirits, we found the Lord near us, watering our spirits with the showers of his love; and our hearts were filled with thanksgiving to his most worthy name.

Then we travelled into Plymouth colony, in New England, and had many precious meetings amongst the professors: some were sober and were convinced, but others remained in their persecuting spirit, rejecting the Truth. At Sandwich, the priest came and disputed with me about religion; at first, he seemed pretty moderate, but I was concerned to lay open his deceit, at which he grew peevish: then my companion had much discourse with him, and he was made to confess to the Truth. After which we went to Yarmouth, and found a tender-hearted people, and had service among them. As we returned, I overtook another priest on the road; he put several queries to me, which I answered, and he confessed it was Truth. When we were about to part, he asked where I was going? I told him, “to Boston.” He said he had known a time when it would have been a dangerous place for me to go. I told him, “That was no credit to them, and that God would require it at their hands:”—to which he confessed, and said he was always against persecuting the Quakers, for which he was envied by many. I asked him if he had ever declared his mind in writing to the world, and denied such bloody practices? He answered he had not; but at all times had appeared against it. So we parted from him and travelled to Boston, and had many public meetings in that place: but the hearts of the people were so hard and set against the Truth, notwithstanding the judgments of God which were fallen upon them for their wickedness, that few of them would receive our testimony. After we had visited Boston and Salem, and the meetings thereabout, we returned to Rhode Island, and had several precious meetings there.

Then we returned to Boston and Salem; so to Hampton, where the people had left their habitations and were gone into forts, for fear of the French and Indians; who had burned several towns, and carried many of the people captive to Canada. In this time of great fear, we found an openness among the people, and had a time to clear ourselves: after which we returned, not without some danger,—the Indians having taken and killed people on the road that day—to Salem and Boston. Then an exercise came upon us to visit the Narraganset country, where no Friends dwelt; we therefore proceeded through Plymouth colony, and had several meetings. At Warwick we had a large meeting, and several were convinced of the Truth. After which we travelled to Providence yearly meeting. Many hundreds of people were there: the Lord's power eminently broke in amongst us, and our hearts were melted together.

After the meeting we took boat, and passed over to Rhode Island; where we had to stir up the people to faithfulness. We then went into the Narraganset country, and had good service there; several were convinced, and the mouths of gainsayers stopped. The Lord's power and love sweetly overshadowed us, and when our service was over, we left with sheaves in our bosoms, and returned to Boston in order to take shipping for Barbadoes. During our stay at Boston we had several meetings: Truth broke through and made way, whereby we were comforted amongst Friends; praises be to the Lord forever.

On the 17th of the sixth month, 1692, we took shipping at Boston for Barbadoes. After we had been some days at sea, our vessel sprung a leak, and our pumps would not clear her. Upon search, we found the place and got it stopped. In the night following, we met with a great storm, which continued for three days: most of the ship's crew concluded we should be cast away; but the Lord remembered us in mercy; for he rebuked the winds and the seas, and filled our souls with the joy of his salvation. The master of the ship and company were great professors, and enemies in their minds to us and our principles: we had some discourse with them, and the Lord gave us wisdom to stand in our testimony, and keep our peace. The master said if he was taken by the French, it would be because he had the Quakers on board. But though there was a privateer in the latitude of Barbadoes, we landed safe at Bridgetown in that island, on the 2nd of the eighth month.

After the ship had staid a few weeks, they put to sea again; and she was taken in sight of the island in their return, when no Quakers were on board, and carried to Martinico by the French; which might plainly convince him of the erroneous judgment he had, relating to the Quakers.

Friends in Barbadoes were glad to see us, and we them. The hand of the Lord was still upon the inhabitants, and many were taken away by death in sore distempers: also the negroes at that time made a plot, intending to kill all the white people in the island: but it being discovered, they were prevented; although the white people were in great fear. We laboured amongst them in the love of God, and his presence filled our assemblies; by which the hearts of his people were greatly tendered: many that were strangers to the operation of Truth in their hearts, were reached by the power of God, and we favoured and preserved, both inwardly and outwardly. Friends were in sweet unity and concord, and in much tenderness we parted with them.

On the 19th of the ninth month we took shipping for Antigua, and landed there on the 23rd of the same. We found a few Friends, who were glad to see us: but the inhabitants were very wicked: yet the love of God was largely extended towards them, and we laboured in that ability given unto us; which so affected their hearts, that several were reached by the power of God, and received the Truth in the love of it, during our stay there. Having cleared ourselves of the work and service which the Lord required of us, on the 30th of the tenth month, we took shipping for Nevis. The next day after we had set forward, we narrowly escaped a French privateer, which was upon the coast and took a ship out of the harbour that night: we could not but admire the Lord's mercy in preserving us from the hands of unreasonable men; and our hearts were truly thankful unto him for his manifold preservations.

Friends of the island having intelligence of our coming there, two of them were upon the shore waiting for us, who received us kindly. We staid some time on the island: the Lord's hand had been heavy upon the inhabitants, and had numbered many of them to the grave by a malignant distemper. Our hearts were opened to proclaim the everlasting gospel amongst them, and we warned them to repent and turn to the Lord while his visitation was extended to them. Many hearts were reached by the power of God, and made to confess unto the Truth; and we found our peace continued and increased with the Lord. And when we were ready to go out of the island, we went to the governor, in order to have our certificate signed by him; but he refused and said we should not go off the island. So we left him, and told the master of the vessel with whom we had agreed for our passage, who said he would go with us to the governor: a sober man that was a justice, wrote to him also on our behalf. When we appeared again before the governor, he seemed very high; yet after some discourse, said. For the master's and justice's sakes he would sign it; but as for us, we might be spies. I told him, “We were no spies, but true men, and did not come out of England unknown to the government.” Then I showed him a pass which we had from the Secretary of State, wherein the governors of the several islands within the dominions of England, were commanded to let us pass: after which he seemed very kind, and asked why we did not show him it before? We told him, “We had not shown it then, but to satisfy him we were true men, and came in the love of God to visit the inhabitants:” so we parted very friendly.

We took shipping for Whitehaven, on the 26th of the twelfth month, 1692; and as soon as we got on board the vessel, the Lord wonderfully favoured us with his living presence, which caused tears of joy to flow. We landed safe at the Highlands in Scotland, on the 15th of the second month, 1693, and from there travelled into Cumberland, home.

Chapter II.

Religious service in Various Parts of England, Wales, and Ireland—His Marriage—A Warning Proclaimed through Many of the Streets of London—Visit to Some Northern and Eastern Counties—Epistle to the Yearly Meeting in London—His Second Visit to America—Epistle to Friends in the West Indies.

After staying a few weeks at home, we took our journey to the yearly meeting at London, Friends were glad to see us safe returned from America. After the meetings, which were to satisfaction and comfort of Friends, I returned homeward, attended the yearly meeting at York, and had good service there; also visited several other meetings in that county; so into Cumberland, and laboured, in the ability given, for the stirring up of Friends to their religious duties.

At this time I was engaged with a young woman, belonging to our own meeting at Pardshaw-Cragg, in order for marriage; but finding I had some further service to perform before the accomplishing of our marriage, I acquainted her therewith: she desired me to mind the Lord's requirings, and answer them; and not to be any way straitened on her account.

On the Sth of the ninth month, 1693, I took my journey into Westmoreland; and had a warning to all who were convinced of the Truth, to keep their minds more inward with the Lord, that they might know the work of his power to redeem them out of the earth, and draw their affections more heavenward; and that the younger sort might be weaned from the delights and vanities of the world. Then I went to Sedbergh, and through the dales of Yorkshire, to the eastward, and had good service for the Truth; and went forward on my journey, by way of Lincolnshire, up to London.

After my service in that city was over, I was drawn into Kent; where I found many that had been convinced by Truth's testimony, when I was in that county in the year 1686: several of them were well grown in the Truth, and I had good service among them. When I was clear of those parts, I travelled into Sussex and Hampshire, and found a concern upon me to visit those who had run out into separation with John Story, at Reading. I went to the separate meeting, and sat down in silence to wait for the motion of the word of life from heaven. I found them in an exalted mind, above the pure fear of the Lord, which occasioned my soul to mourn: and although one Charles Harris, an opposer of Friends, and leader into separation, charged things on me falsely, which he was not able to prove, yet I cleared myself, and came away in peace of mind, and went to Friends' meeting. But that being near over, I desired to have another meeting with them in the afternoon, to which many of the Separatists came. The high-minded were judged, and the humble revived, by the powerful operation of God's love; and several that had been drawn aside into separation, signified their satisfaction with the meeting.

From there I travelled into Dorsetshire, and visited Friends and many people; warning them to repent and turn to the Lord; exhorting Friends to be careful, and keep more inward with the Lord, and walk as becomes our holy profession. When I came near the Island of Portland, where I had formerly been abused, a concern came upon me to visit the people there: several Friends went with me from Weymouth. As we passed through the villages, I exhorted the inhabitants to repent, and turn unto the Lord, while he strove with them. Some were sober, but others envious; and one man who belonged to the castle, raged much, and bid me depart out of the island, I reproved him for his behaviour. He told me, he would fire all the guns in the castle, and raise the inhabitants to put me out of the island; but we went on until we came to the place where I had been abused before, and had a meeting there, to which many of the inhabitants came, I preached unto them the way of life and salvation, by and through the demonstration and power of God. While I was speaking, the man who belonged to the castle, came with a drawn sword in his hand, and made several passes at me; yet had no power to hurt me. A Friend spoke to him, and told him, he unmanned himself in offering to strike at one that would not strike again. Then he seemed ashamed, and was somewhat sober; and after having cleared myself, I went away in great peace.

shall I travelled through Somersetshire and Bristol, to the yearly meeting in Wales, where I met with my dear companion Thomas Wilson; also William Greenup, and Friends from most parts of Wales. We had a sweet, refreshing meeting, the Lord's power was manifested to our great comfort, and the affairs of the church were managed in much love and tenderness. A godly zeal appeared in Friends against everything that would bring a dishonour upon the holy Truth, and scandal upon our profession: many living testimonies were borne both in the Welsh and English tongues: a sweet harmony of love and life attended us, and we were comforted in the Lord and one another. We had good service at that meeting in helping Friends in discipline; and the meeting ended in the love of God. Tidings having reached us of the death of John ap John's wife, it was on my mind to attend the burial; and I went accordingly. Many people of various opinions were there; and I had a concern to publish the everlasting gospel. The Lord was with me, gave me his word and strength to publish it; and his power was over all. Then I went to Bala, and had a meeting.

After my service in Wales, I took shipping at Holyhead for Dublin; where I landed safely, it being near the time of their national half-year's meeting. I staid in Dublin till it was over; then travelled into the north, and warned Friends to keep more inward with the Lord, and wait to feel the operation of his power to cleanse their minds and hearts. I travelled hard, and had good service; the minds of people being much humbled by reason of the great calamity which had happened in that nation, many habitations being left desolate by the late wars. I travelled into Leinster and Monster, and had good service; many hearts were reached by the power of God, and several convinced of the blessed Truth. Now finding myself clear of the work the Lord called me unto in this nation, I returned to Dublin, it being about the sixth month, 1694, and took shipping for Whitehaven. In our voyage, we narrowly escaped a French privateer: after which I landed safe, and travelled home, having had a prosperous journey in the will of God.

During my stay at home, I found freedom in the love of God to accomplish my marriage with the young woman before-mentioned. In great humility and fear, I besought the Lord that he would sanctify a married state to me, and keep my mind out of the entanglements of the world; that so I might not be hurt as to my service in the work of the ministry, whereunto I had been called. In a bowed frame of mind, we laid our intentions before Friends; and proceeded and accomplished the same, according to the good order established amongst us. I saw at that time, something like to creep in amongst us, that would do hurt in the church, namely, the making of great provision at marriage dinners, and inviting many people after the marriage. I felt a stop in my mind, from making more provision than usual; and in attending thereto, found true peace. We came quietly home; the Lord owned us with his living presence, and his love overshadowed us; blessed be his holy name forever.

In a few weeks after, I had a concern for the city of London, which very much bowed my mind: my wife understanding it, desired me to answer what I believed to be my duty; and said, she only desired to enjoy what she enjoyed, in God's favour; which did greatly add to my comfort. So I took my journey and went to Swarthmore; and proceeding, visited several meetings on my way. When I was about twenty miles from London, tidings came of the queen's death; which put people's minds into some consternation. When I got to London, I had a concern to go to Westminster meeting; and there being a large gathering of people of several persuasions, I preached the everlasting gospel by and through the demonstration and power of God; warning them to repent, turn to the Lord, and consider their latter end; showing them that the grave equals all, as to the things of this life; and the great difference between the righteous and the wicked in the other world; referring to the parable of Lazarus and the rich man. Many hearts were reached by the power of God, for it was a day of visitation to them: the meeting ending in a sense of God's love. Then the Lord showed unto me that I must go through the streets of that great city, and warn the people to repent; which deeply bowed my mind; and I laboured under the weight thereof several days, and would gladly have discovered it to my brethren in the work of the gospel. But the word of the Lord came unto me saying, “See you tell it to no man, until you deliver it as I commanded you;” which was to begin at Whitechapel, and go through the main streets of the city, and proclaim this message, “Wo! Wo! Wo! from the Lord, to the crown of pride in this place; for the vials of his wrath will be poured down upon it: therefore I am made to warn all people to repent, that the Lord may show them mercy.” I went with this message about three miles through the city; and in answering the Lord's requirings, witnessed peace to flow in my soul. His arm was stretched forth for my deliverance, and gave me strength and boldness to bear my testimony among the people: and not a hand was lifted up against me. The consideration of the Lord's dealings deeply bowed my spirit, and made me to say, he is worthy to be obeyed in all his requirings; for all his paths are paths of peace; blessed be his holy name forever.

Being clear of the city, I returned home, and laboured in the work of the gospel in our county: then visited Friends in Northumberland and Durham, and had good service.

Having, for some time, had drawings in my mind to visit Friends again in America, the consideration thereof brought deep exercise upon my spirit, and often bowed me under a sense of God's love to his heritage and people the world over. I was made willing to leave all, and follow the motion of his eternal Spirit. And when I told my wife of the concern which was laid upon me, she desired me to mind my freedom in the Lord, and let no worldly affairs hinder me; but answer his requirings: so I acquainted my brethren therewith, and they had unity with me therein, which was a strength to me.

On the 8th of the ninth month, 1695, I took my journey towards London, in order to take shipping for America: John Tiffin, Peter Fearon, and several other Friends accompanied me to Swarthmore: we staid their first-day's meeting, and were sweetly comforted together. Next day we attended the burial of Daniel Abraham's younger son: many people of note in the country were there: I declared the way of life and salvation unto the people, and many hearts were reached. The next morning John Tiffin, Peter Fearon, and a young man, went over the sands with me. John Tiffin being ancient, and taken ill upon the sands, with much difficulty got to Lancaster; where we met with John Gratton, and had a comfortable meeting among Friends: after which John Tiffin and the young man returned homewards. Peter Fearon and I went towards London, and had meetings at several places, as at Stockport, Nottingham, and Leicester. The presence of the Lord bore up our spirits, and kept us near him and one another, in our travels for the good of God's heritage.

On the 21st of the ninth month, we got to London. The ships not being ready, we staid in the city about three weeks; labouring in the ability given us for the gathering people to God, and settling and building up of those that were already gathered, into the one Spirit and most holy faith. Then Peter Fearon returning homeward, I accompanied him to Waltham Abbey; and so to Hertford, where we had a large and heavenly meeting; then to Hitchin, and from there into Bedfordshire, and had several meetings there. Our labour was, to stir up Friends to faithfulness; and to stand true to God, and their testimony which they were called to bear for the name of Jesus, against the hireling priests, and paying of tithes. After several meetings in that county, we went to Francis Coalman's house at Woburn, and had an evening meeting there; directing all to the light of Christ, which was manifested in their own hearts; and several were reached thereby.

The day following, Peter Fearon, who accompanied me in pure love, so far on my intended journey, returned home: we having travelled together in true brotherly love, our hearts were knit in the fellowship of the gospel, which made our parting very affecting. I returned towards London, being alone; but before I had travelled half a mile, the Lord's power overshadowed my soul, by which my heart was broken and filled with joy and gladness; which made up for all my wants. I got to Edward Chester's at Dunstable that night, and had a meeting there. The next day I went to Hempsted; from there to Albans; and so to London, and staid there several weeks, labouring in the word and doctrine of Christ, and had good service.

On the 8th of the eleventh month, 1695, I went down to Gravesend, many Friends accompanying me, and two that were going to America. The next day, we had a meeting on board the ship; and the day following, at Gravesend. On the first-day of the week, we were at Rochester, and had two meetings: many testimonies were borne to show forth the Lord's goodness, and to warn people to repent. At one of these meetings, a young man appeared in supplication, whose mouth had not been opened in the ministry before: I was glad to see the Lord at work in the hearts of babes, to perfect his own praise. The next day the Friends from London returned home.

On the third-day of the week, being the 13th of the eleventh month, we went on board, and the day following set sail: the power of the Lord overshadowed my soul; and my heart was broken under a sense of his goodness, so that tears of joy flowed from mine eyes, feeling the glory of his presence to be with me. Having got the length of the northern buoy, we met with a storm; therefore came to an anchor and rode two days; then weighed and sailed to Margate Road, came to, staid next day, and had a meeting on board. The Lord showed us favour, filled our hearts with joy and gladness, and living praises to his most worthy name.

Then we proceeded on our voyage, and got into the Downs: we staid there several weeks for lack of a wind, yet were not without service. There being many Friends' ships there, we had several meetings on board, so that many had an opportunity, both priests and others, to hear the gospel preached unto them. Several priests were going over into Maryland, having heard that the government had laid a tax of forty pounds of tobacco on each inhabitant, for an advancement of the priests' wages; and many were willing to venture their lives for the sake of the benefit. The Lord was with us, gave us wisdom to divide the word aright, both to priests and people, by showing them the way of Truth, and the difference between those the Lord sends, and those who run and the Lord never sent, but go for their own ends, preach for hire and divine for money. These priests were silenced, and Truth was exalted over all.

Then we went on shore, (I having a great desire to see Friends at Canterbury, where several had been convinced by the preaching of the gospel, when I was there before:) we were gladly received, and the next day had two meetings. When I was preaching, one Cook, a priest, came and staid a considerable time; the next day he was at the Friend's house where I lodged, and told me. He was satisfied with the doctrine I delivered, and confessed it was the Truth; after which he asked me, If I understood Greek and Hebrew? I told him no. Then he asked how I understood the scriptures, seeing I did not know the original tongues in which they were written? I answered, “by and through a measure or manifestation of the same power and Spirit the holy men of God were enabled to write them, which was before the many languages.” Then he said he had no immediate impulse to preach. I then asked him, “Of what were you made a minster? and told him, “Those who run and the Lord never sent, never did nor would profit the people; but the apostle's testimony was, that he and his fellow labourers were 'made able ministers, not of the letter, but of the Spirit,' and that was the true fountain of the ministry; for they that had not the Spirit of Christ were none of his.” To this he confessed, and said he hoped they might have it by succession from the apostles, but was not sure of it. I told him, “If I had no immediate impulse of the Spirit to preach the gospel, I would never have left my wife and family to do it; but there was a necessity laid upon me, and woe was to me if I did it not; every true minister of Christ knows a necessity so to do.” The priest assented to this, and so we parted. After we had had several meetings up and down in that county to satisfaction, we returned to the ship; and had meetings in one ship or other almost every day.

When we had stayed near six weeks, the wind coming fair, we weighed and stood away; but the wind turning, we came to again. Then a great weight came upon me: and I was very much bowed for many days, under a sense of the power of darkness that was at work. In a week after, there was a plot discovered, of an intention to kill king William; and it appeared that the French intended to invade the land, which occasioned a strict embargo to be laid on all shipping; so that we were stopped of our voyage near five months. Yet I had no freedom at all to return home, but still waited in expectation of getting away. The Lord was near to me, and often sweetened my exercises; he bore up my spirit in deep tribulations, and wrought a willingness in me to give up all. I was often concerned to go on shore, and travelled in the county of Kent; was at many meetings and burials there, and had good service.

There I met Thomas Rudd,[6] who had it upon him to go through several towns to declare the Truth. At Deal, he was concerned to preach through the streets; and there being a great concourse of people, occasioned by the fleet of ships that lay there, many behaved rudely. I passed through the streets after him, and had dispute with several. One called a justice was very envious, and said he could find it in his heart to put him in prison. I asked. “For what? had he done or spoken any ill?” I told him, “I was sorry to see any in his place of that mind; for men might and did go daily through the streets cursing and swearing, and drunk, yet were taken no notice of to be punished:” so he was much ashamed and went away. We had a meeting in the town after that, to which there came a priest that belonged to one of the men-of-war; he seemed to be much concerned.

When the meeting was over he spoke to a Friend, and told him he had a desire to speak with me or Thomas Rudd. I met with him upon the sea-shore the same night: he being lately recovered from a fever, was very low in mind, and inquired of me concerning my faith and principles. My heart was lovingly opened to give him an account of my faith, and Truth's principles; for I felt the Lord's love greatly abound to the man: we spent a considerable time that night in conversation. When I parted with him he was very low, and confessed to the Truth; desiring to have another opportunity with me or some of the Quakers; for he had heard strange things concerning us, but he found they were lies, and we were wronged.

After I had staid several months with the shipping, and thereaway, I had some drawings in my mind to visit the city of London. I went there along with Jacob Fallowfield, and exhorted Friends to mind their growth in the life of Truth; for none would be safe but those that knew a growing therein. We had a very heavenly time, and found the secret power of the Lord at work in the hearts of several young people. Many mouths were opened to declare the Truth; for which I was glad, and to see the Lord's work to prosper. When we were clear, we took leave of Friends and returned back to the ship. As we were on the road, we met several who told us the fleet was sailed; but we found it our place to go forward, though many turned back upon the road that were going down to the fleet. We travelled hard, and got there just as they were weighing anchor; hired a boat and had much to do to get to the ship, she being then under sail. As soon as the master saw a boat following, he laid the ship by, and we got well on board, and had a fair wind to Portsmouth: there we staid above a month, went ashore and had many meetings; also in the Isle of Wight and at Porchester. We had good service; several were convinced of the Truth, and the mouths of gainsayers stopped: we also had meetings on board the ships to satisfaction; and the day before we set sail, we had a public meeting on board the ship we went in: many people came to it out of the country; and the Lord, by his power, broke in wonderfully amongst us: I was livingly opened to proclaim the word of life, and many hearts were tendered. Then I had a sight that the time of our departure was near, and that we should get on our long-desired voyage. Next morning the man-of-war put out the signal for sailing; the ships weighed anchor, and got to Cowes in the Isle of Wight. We went on shore to Newport, and had a glorious meeting there. After the meeting was over, a concern fell upon me to write a few lines to the yearly meeting, (it beginning the next day after we were to sail;) which was as follows:

Dear Friends, Brethren, Fathers and Elders,

Whom I love in the Lord Jesus Christ, in whom is all your strength, power, and wisdom; I entreat you all, keep to his eternal power and wisdom, in the exercise of all your gifts, in this yearly meeting; that Christ your heavenly head may rule and speak through all, and carry on that glorious work which he has begun. That in the beholding the prosperity of it, your joy may be full in the Lord, and you be a true strength and comfort one to another, and to the churches of Christ the world over. That as the Lord, by his eternal power, did set up those meetings, and has honoured them with his presence, he may fill your hearts together, in this your solemn assembly, with the same power, life, and wisdom; which he will do, if all keep their places in Christ their heavenly head; where every one will feel life to spring, and love to abound, and your unity to be increased one with another. So may you return to your respective places as with sheaves in your bosoms; and God over all will be exalted, and the peace of his church preserved; which is the sincere breathing of my soul to the Lord for you all; desiring your prayers to the Lord for me, as mine are for you; and in true love, I remain your friend and brother, according to measure,

James Dickinson.

Written on board, near Cowes, in the Isle of Wight, the 29th of the third month, 1696.

Let this be read in the yearly meeting.

On the 30th of the third month, we set sail on our voyage to Virginia, with above a hundred sail in company: the masters of near twenty of them professed the Truth. The Lord was merciful to us, bore up our spirits, and sweetened all our exercises. We had several meetings on board; and when the weather was fair and calm, we went on board other vessels, had meetings and warned the people to repent; directing them to the light of Christ, which made manifest their sins, and reproved them for them; and reminding them what great jeopardy they were often in, and how soon the great deep might swallow them up and be their grave: several were reached by the Truth.

About 170 leagues from Virginia, we left the fleet; and in a week after, got safe into York river, it being on the 23rd of the fifth month, 1696; but many of the fleet did not get in for above three weeks after, they having met with a violent storm, and lost several of their masts. We went ashore at Edward Thomas's at Queen's creek. My spirit was deeply bowed under the consideration of the Lord's mercies, and his condescension to us; for he showed me, before we lost sight of the English land, that I should be in my service that day eight weeks, in America; and it was so, for we got into Virginia, and had good service for the Truth. The Lord's power assisted us, and opened our hearts and mouths to proclaim the word of life to the people. Then we travelled into New Kent, where I had formerly visited the people with my dear companion, Thomas Wilson: several at that time were convinced of the blessed Truth, and received it in the love of it. And although I met with opposition from the sheriff and some justices, yet the Lord's power wrought effectually, and was over them. After we were gone, they raised a lying report, and told the people we were Jesuits, and were both hanged in Maryland: several believed it was so; but those whose hearts were reached by the power of Truth, did not believe it. We wrote an Epistle,[7] to those parts, from Antigua in the West Indies when it came to hand, it had a good effect for the confirmation of those who were convinced; and showed to them who believed the report, that it was false.

Friends in New Kent were glad to see us; and notice being given of our going there, we had a large meeting: the man that had raised the report came in; and when he saw me, he knew me, and was ashamed: the Lord was with us to our great comfort. After we had proclaimed the word of life among them, we travelled to Curies: after the meeting there, we travelled twenty miles to Apomata, and crossed James river. We swam our horses in the night over Apomata river, and went over ourselves in canoes: the secret hand of the Lord protected us both inwardly and outwardly; the sweetness of his love kept us near himself and one another; and in the strength of his power, we were enabled to proclaim the everlasting gospel among the people.

We went to Merchanthope and had a meeting there, to which a great number of people came: the word of life was plentifully declared, and the power of God manifested among them. A man and woman of note were reached, and confessed to the Truth. Near the conclusion of the meeting, the priest's wife, with several of his hearers, came and told me, the priest heard I would gladly speak with him; and that he was but a little way off, and had a desire to see me. I replied, “I knew no priest there, neither had any business with any; and if he heard such a report it was false; but if he wanted anything with me, I was willing to give him an opportunity at his request.” So they sent to the priest, and desired him to send for me; which he did. I went, and several Friends along with me. The priest and most of his hearers being gathered, he began to reflect against us and our principles; and said we denied baptism, the Lord's Supper, and the resurrection of the dead. I told him his charges were false, and put him to prove his assertions; but he could not. Then he said among the people that he did not understand our principles, but was willing to know our belief concerning those things. I told him he would have manifested more wisdom if he had known our principles better, before he charged us with so many errors, and could prove none. Then I declared our faith; showing them we believed the resurrection of the just and unjust, the just to everlasting life, and the unjust to condemnation: and that we were of the apostle's faith concerning baptism, believing there is one Lord, one faith, and one true and saving baptism; which is Christ's, namely, that of the Holy Spirit and fire. Then I put him to prove by Scripture, his practice of sprinkling infants but he could not. He then ran out into many words, charging us with more errors. I told him, he ought to prove those he had charged first, before he advanced others; for if he did not, I thought no wise man would believe him. But he continued railing against us, and said that visions and revelations were now ceased, and that no such thing was to be known in these days.

Then I desired time to reply; and showed by scripture, that visions and revelations were not ceased, and the dismal state of those that knew them not; for without them there was no true knowledge of God; according to Christ's own words, “No man knows the Son, but the Father; neither knows any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.” So they that deny revelation, are without the knowledge of God; for where there is no revelation, the people perish; and Elihu said, “there is a spirit in man; and the inspiration of the Almighty gives them understanding.” I desired the people to consider what state they were in who knew no revelation, and denied that any such thing could be known, as their teacher had done; “for if any man have not the spirit of Christ, he is none of his.” Then I directed all to the light of Christ, which would give them the knowledge of God, whom to know is life eternal, according to Christ's own doctrine. I told the priest, if he would contradict Christ, the prophets, and apostles, and number himself among those who had no vision, he manifested himself to be no better than Eli's sons, who had no open vision; and those the Lord spoke unto by the mouths of his true prophets, and told them, that night should be unto them for a vision, and darkness for a divination; and that the sun should go down over the prophets, and the day should be dark over them. When I had opened these things to the people, I went away; and afterwards sent several books to be dispersed among the people, in order to show them our Christian principles concerning those things the priest had falsely charged upon us.

Then I, with my companion, travelled down to Chuckatuck, and visited several places there: many people flocked to our meetings, and we were livingly opened in doctrine by the power of the word of life, which did plentifully flow to the confirming of God's heritage; and many hearts were reached thereby. We laboured to stir up Friends to faithfulness in their testimonies against those things which were evil; and to keep to the cross of Christ, that so they might be crucified to the world, and the world to them; declaring in all plainness, that a profession of the Truth would stand them in no stead, except they lived in the life thereof, and waited to feel the power of Christ working in them to the changing of their hearts; and knew him to be a mediator and interceder for them to the Father, and their faith strengthened and confirmed daily; and thereby came to live to God, and knew the evidence of his Spirit to bear witness with their spirits that they were his children; and as such, kept in subjection to him: so would his love fill their hearts, and bring them under a living concern for his Truth, and make them zealous for it in their generation; and good patterns to their offspring, and those that might be seeking the Lord, who were yet strangers to him.

After we had cleared ourselves in those parts, we got a shallop and went over Chesapeak bay to Accomack, not without some difficulty. The Lord's love was great to us, and his power manifested for our deliverance; blessed be his holy name forever. We visited Friends on the eastern shore, and had good service. At one place, there came a great many Indians to a Friend's house where I was; one of them could speak very good English. I had some discourse with him about God, Christ, and religion. I asked him if he believed there was a God? He said. Yes, and that all the Indians believed so too; but he was a Protestant, and lived amongst the English. I asked him if he knew God? He answered, No. Then I told him, I would inform him how he might know the great God that made all things. He said he would willingly learn that. I asked if he did not find something, when he told a lie, swore, or wronged any, that let him see he should not do so? Then he laid his hand upon his breast, with very much seriousness, and said, Yes, he knew it very well. I told him, “The great God, that made the Indians, and all things, was a spirit and a great light; and appeared in the Indians' hearts in order to teach them to be good, and forsake evil; and if he did but mind that, it would give him the knowledge of God; for it was the appearance of the great God which showed him his thoughts.” He replied that he did not know that before, but would mind it for the time to come. Then he asked me, “What made the Englishman swear, if they knew God was so near?” I told him it was the devil which made both the Englishman and Indian bad. He said he never swore before he learned to speak English, for they had no swearing in their language; but so soon as they could speak English, they learned to swear; but if he had more of my company, I would teach him better; and wished he was a Quaker, then he would not swear.

Afterwards I visited their king, who was a very solid man: he would not be satisfied until I sat down at his right hand. I had some discourse with him about religion: he was very willing to hear me, and showed what respect he could; and offered me such entertainment as his house afforded, which was a cup of water. When I was about to go away, he signified his satisfaction, being well pleased with my visit.

Then I visited several meetings in Chester county, where many who had run out with George Keith into separation, came. I was enabled to open the principles of Truth, and vindicate our ancient testimony concerning our faith in Jesus Christ; declaring to them that we believed in him as being the only begotten Son of God; who in the fulness of time, took flesh, became perfect man, according to the flesh; descended and came of the seed of Abraham and David, but was miraculously conceived by the Holy Spirit, and born of the Virgin Mary; yet powerfully owned to be the Son of God, according to the spirit of sanctification, by the resurrection from the dead: and that as man, Christ died for our sins, rose again, and was received up into glory in the heavens; having fulfilled the law and the prophets, and put an end to the first priesthood, is a priest forever, not after the order of Aaron, but of Melchisedec; and ever lives to make intercession to his Father, not for our sins only, but for the sins of the whole world: so declared our faith to be firm in Christ our heavenly Head; and that many had suffered deeply, because they dared not break his commands. The Lord's power and presence was witnessed in our assemblies; and our hearts were bowed, and filled with praises to his worthy name. Several of them who had run out with George Keith, were reached by the Lord's power; and being prevailed upon by his love, confessed to the Truth, and said it was sound doctrine. Those who were lifted up in their imaginations, came flatteringly to me, and told me they were glad I was sound in the faith; for what I had declared, a great many had denied. I bid them name one, but they could not. So being silent, I told them I had had the opportunity of seeing most of the people called Quakers in the world, and never yet had met with one (who was owned by them) that denied it; and I knew it was the faith of the Quakers the world over. Furthermore, I said that George Keith, and those who were gone into separation with him, had given way to a lying spirit, and falsely declared to the world we denied the man Christ Jesus: and except they did repent, they would wither, die, and come to nothing; for the charge against us was false.' Some of them replied that I would never see that day. I told them I had seen it in the light of the Lord, at their first running out, and was made to warn them of it; and so we parted.

I went to Haverfordwest, where the Welsh people dwelt, and found a tender-hearted people: several Friends from Philadelphia met me there; and the Lord's power comforted our hearts, and filled them with joy and gladness. Afterwards we went to the city, where I staid some time, and found Friends alive to God, and in sweet unity one with another; but several of those who had run out into separation were restless, tossed to and fro, unstable as water, being gone from Christ, the true fountain of light and life, into imaginations; so were stumbling, and falling, and getting themselves dipped in water. I could not but mourn for them, being sensible of their great loss; seeing them to be in an exalted mind, vainly lifted up above the simplicity of the Truth in the conceit of their high attainments. Several Friends visited them in love; but they reviled them, and rejected the Lord's mercies. I found the Lord's power and presence to be greatly manifested amongst Friends in that place.

From there I went to Germantown, and had a meeting, to which many of the Separatists came; several of whom had been dipped in water. After the meeting, they began to cavil; but the Lord's power came over them, which chained them down. Then I travelled into the county of Bucks, and declared the way of life and salvation unto the people shall to the yearly meeting at Burlington: many Friends from East and West Jersey, and Pennsylvania, were there. Friends in the ministry had a meeting together, wherein the Lord's power overshadowed us, causing our cups to overflow: we were engaged to encourage one another to faithfulness to Him who had called us with such a high and honourable calling. The yearly meeting was large; the Lord's power wonderfully broke in upon us, so that many living testimonies were borne from the motion of the spirit of Truth, and hearts filled with praises to the dreadful name of the Lord. The meeting lasted four days, and Friends were kept in the peaceable spirit of Christ: the affairs of the church were sweetly carried on, and managed in God's fear and wisdom, in which we were a true strength one to another. Although several of the Separatists came, and made a jumble and disturbance when we were performing our religious worship to Almighty God, yet Friends kept their places, and went on in their testimonies; and the Lord's power came over all.

Some of the Separatists were so wicked, that they uttered many blasphemous words; and while I was declaring the way of life and salvation, directing all to the light of Christ Jesus, they lifted up their voices till their faces turned black; and told me, The light I spoke of was nothing but an idol, and a frozen light; with many more such like absurd expressions. But I told them, “It was no other but Christ Jesus the true light, which enlightens every man that comes into the world, as John declared,—John 1: 9; and it was the testimony God had given us to bear; and the business we were sent about was, to labour to turn people's minds from darkness to this true light, and from satan's power to the power of God; that people might come to receive remission of sins by faith in Christ Jesus; to which light, all the nations of them that are saved must turn and walk in; it was the apostle's treasure, and so it is every true believer's now.” When they had wearied themselves, they went away; after which we had a heavenly conclusion, and parted in peace.

Then finding drawings in my mind to go to the yearly meeting in Maryland, I went in company with several Friends. We travelled hard, and reached the meeting the day it began, visiting meetings as we went. There being a great fleet of ships lying not far distant, abundance of people came to the meeting, both merchants, captains of vessels, and many others of various ranks and persuasions. The merchants and captains were very sober; but several others behaved very rudely, talking, and smoking tobacco: the power of Truth and the testimony thereof, reached them; so that those rude people were much ashamed of their behaviour, and crowded into the meeting-house till it was filled: and the Lord caused his everlasting gospel to be proclaimed in the demonstration of his power and wisdom, which did plentifully flow amongst us; and we witnessed that Scripture to be fulfilled; “He makes his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire.” The hearts of the faithful were made truly glad; and dread and terror took hold of the rebellious. It proved a day of visitation to many; for the Lord made his instruments as clouds full of rain, and caused them to empty themselves amongst his heritage. The affairs of the church were managed in God's fear and wisdom: nothing appeared but love and unity among Friends. The meeting held four days; and ended with praises and thanksgiving unto the God and Father of all our mercies, who, with his dear Son, is worthy thereof.

After the meeting, we returned to Chester and the head of Chesapeak bay, and visited Friends and others. We found great openness in the hearts of many to receive Truth's testimony; and several were tendered and reached thereby. Then we travelled into Pennsylvania, and had several meetings in the lower counties, travelling very hard; for I was pressed in spirit to go to the yearly meeting at Shrewsbury, having several meetings to visit as I went.

When I was at Philadelphia, a great exercise fell upon me for the West India islands, namely: Barbadoes, Antigua, Nevis, and Jamaica; under which I travelled in free resignation of mind to answer the will of God: for I had a sense of an evil spirit which was at work in those western isles, in order to hurt God's heritage, by drawing them from the power of Christ. As I kept the word of patience, and my mind single to the Lord, waiting to know his mind therein, it came upon me to write; and early in the morning I wrote an Epistle, and caused several copies to be taken and sent to the said islands, whereby I got ease of mind. The Epistle is as follows:

Dear Friends,

I am moved of the Lord, in the motion of life, to send you these following lines; being deeply bound under the sense of the love of God in visiting us, and making his way and Truth known to us, and in gathering us to be a people that were no people, and bringing of us to worship him, who is a Spirit, in spirit and in truth; where we have known the streams of love and life to run, in which our souls have found true pleasure. As our minds came to be staid upon the Lord, our peace flowed, and our love increased to him and to one another; which brought us to be of one mind, and often filled our hearts with praises to his most worthy name.

Now, Friends, my spirit is engaged in the motion of life, to caution, warn, and charge you all to keep to God's power that first gathered you; that by it you may be preserved low in his fear, with your minds purely staid in the light of the Lord Jesus Christ; unto which you have been turned, and by which you have come to the knowledge of God, and Jesus Christ his Son, whom to know is life eternal. Now, as you have received the Lord Jesus Christ, be careful to walk in him; in whom you have life, peace, and salvation, and from whom you are to receive daily nourishment to your souls; and witness the cross of Christ, which is the power of God, to crucify you to the world and the world unto you; so that thereby you may escape the corruptions that are in the world through lust, and be made partakers of his divine nature. By the virtue thereof you will be made to bear witness against the world, and all its ways, customs, fashions, notions, and false ways of worship that are therein; and stand up for your holy way, Christ Jesus, the true light, that “enlightens every man that comes into the world.” And as in him you all walk, and know the virtue of his power every day to strengthen you, in the dominion of his life, power, and wisdom, you will stand in your testimonies against all that rise up against him; and be of those that are following the Lamb through many tribulations; and live to God over all, to his glory and your comfort.

Now, as it was God's power that gathered you, so it is the devil's work to scatter you, and drive you from the true foundation, Christ Jesus the true light. I say, all walk in him, and wait in his light, where you will have the great mystery of godliness more and more revealed unto you; and so see over and through the mystery of iniquity and the devices of satan, his sly insinuations, lies and prevarications, which he is possessing many with; making them instruments in his hand to trouble the churches of Christ, and to make rents and schisms therein; dividing in Jacob, and scattering in Israel.

Therefore watch against the enemy's working in the mystery, though with never so large pretences and fair shows: his work is still to draw away the mind from the pure conduct of the spirit of Truth, into high conceits and imaginations, and so into separation from God and his people. I warn you all to watch and keep low, that the enemy may not gain ground upon you, nor draw your minds from the simplicity of the Truth; but that you may feel the Lord daily to break your hearts, and tender your spirits, and give you a clear discerning between that which serves God and that which serves him not, both in yourselves and others. So will you have a sense and feeling beyond words; and never be deceived by the fair words or pharisaical carriage of any whose spirits are wrong, and are gone into contention and strife; making rents and divisions in the church: such labour to gather to themselves and not to Christ. Experience has showed the work of that spirit in former ages, (as also in this age) and what has been the end of those that have been led by it.

Therefore all keep to the Lord's power, and thereby you will be preserved out of the snares of the enemy, and firm in your testimony against that spirit of strife and contention: touch not with it, but live over it; for all that join with it, will wither and die, and come to nought. It is the word of the Lord God as a warning to you all, to watch against, and feed it with judgment wherever it appears. Though it may appear as Saul did, to bless the true prophet of the Lord, yet it is that which is gone into rebellion against God, and does not obey him. And though those who are gone into this spirit, may strive to be honoured before the people, (as Saul did,) and may be rending and tearing to obtain honour, yet the Lord will rend the kingdom out of the hands of those that join with it, although they may have known something of the anointing oil, and have been anointed therewith. It is those that keep in obedience to Christ, that shall be made partakers of the benefits of his obedience to his Father; for it is said of him, “He became the author of eternal salvation to all them that obey him.” So mind your obedience unto him; and then you will all know of his doctrine, which drops as the dew upon his tender heritage; blessed be his name forever.

Now, 'Seeing it is a righteous thing with God,' says the apostle, 2 Thessalonians 1: 6. 8, 'to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you: and to you who are troubled, rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed in flaming fire, taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:' therefore mind your rest in Christ, and keep in it; and obey his gospel, and keep to his doctrine, which is, 'Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another;' also the apostle says, 'If any man seem to be contentious, we have no such custom, neither the churches of Christ.' So all keep to the eternal power of God, and you will be kept out of evil by it. In the pure love of Christ my soul salutes you all; desiring grace, mercy, and peace, may be multiplied amongst you, and all the churches of Christ the whole world over: letting you know that my dear companion Thomas Wilson was well the last time I heard from him. We have had little rest since we were with you, but have been labouring in the work of the gospel. His dear love was to you all, and so does mine remain; and I send this, as a token thereof, in obedience to the Lord; in whom I remain your friend and brother in tribulations and patience,

James Dickinson.

Philadelphia, the 17th of the Eighth month, 1696.

Let copies of this be sent to Antigua, Nevis, and Jamaica, to be read in their meetings.

I proceeded into West Jersey, and had several meetings; then travelled, in company with several Friends, through the woods to East Jersey, to the yearly meeting at Shrewsbury, which began the 24th of the eighth month and held four days. We laboured to stir up Friends to faithfulness; directing all to Christ the true foundation; that thereby they might know his power to subject their spirits, and lead them into all Truth, both in doctrine and discipline.

The Lord eminently appeared amongst us to our comfort, and we were sweetly refreshed together in the enjoyment of his love.

After the meeting, several Friends went with me towards New York. We crossed Amboy ferry in two canoes, which the watermen lashed together to carry us and our horses over, and staid at Amboy that night. Next day we went to Elizabeth-town, took boat for New York, and were all night upon the water, exposed to wind and storms: it rained all night, and we had no shelter; for the boat was filled with wood, and we sat upon it. About break of day, we got to New York, where we staid a little; then passed over in a canoe to Long Island, and travelled up and down in that island, labouring in the work of the gospel; and had good service for the Truth. Several were convinced, particularly a captain in the army and a justice of the peace, who were afterwards called before the governor of New York: and because they could neither swear nor fight any longer, they laid down their commissions, having received the Truth in the love of it; which was cause of gladness to us; for we had no greater joy than to behold the Lord's work to prosper in the hearts of the children of men.

Being clear of Long Island, we returned to New York, where we had a large meeting; in which we opened the principles of Truth, by and through the demonstration and power of God, and wiped off the reproaches which George Keith, and those who ran out with him, had cast upon us. Many hearts were deeply affected and tendered, both among the Dutch and English; and the Lord's power was over all. Near the conclusion of the meeting, William Bradford, (who had printed several books which George Keith and others wrote against Friends), began to make disturbance; and flatteringly said, He was glad to hear the doctrine which was delivered that day: notwithstanding he would vindicate what they had written and printed. I saw if we entered into debate, it would draw people's minds out, which were measurably turned to the Lord's power, and reached thereby: then it was upon me to supplicate the Lord in prayer. After I had done, a Friend stood up, and declared among the people, that George Keith, and those who had written and accused us with denying the manhood of Christ, had wronged themselves and us too; for he knew not one that was a Quaker, that ever denied the manhood of Christ; and farther said, 'We believe there is one Mediator between God and man, even the man Christ Jesus; and by no other name but that of Jesus, we expect salvation; and by his Spirit we must be adopted, and made heirs of that peace and rest he has purchased for us with the price of his precious blood; by which we shall be changed if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, wherein our true fellowship does consist.' People seemed generally dissatisfied with Bradford's appearance in so disturbing a manner; for the Lord's power was over every unclean spirit, and the testimony of Truth exalted over all: so the meeting ended.

Having appointed a meeting at Chester next day, we sailed several miles in canoes, and through much difficulty got to the meeting, which was to satisfaction. Then we returned to Long Island, and in our passage over, the wind rose, and water came into the canoes: we sat deep in it, for none dared move to cast it forth for fear of oversetting, although it was frost and very cold weather: yet after much difficulty and fatigue we got safe to land. Being clear of those parts, we returned to New York, took boat and passed over to East Jersey: then travelled through the woods to West Jersey, so to Burlington and Philadelphia; and had good service for the Truth. It being frost and a great snow, it was very tedious travelling; yet the Lord made way for us both inwardly and outwardly, and made hard things easy to us.

We visited the sick and aged in our travels, and sympathised with them in their afflictions: the Lord's power reached unto them and helped them, and they were comforted in their exercises. We travelled through the woods to Salem, (many Friends accompanying us,) and had several meetings thereabouts. At Cohansey, abundance of professors came to the meeting; the gospel was preached to them, and many were deeply affected: we were concerned to vindicate and lay open our principles, for the clearing of the reproaches cast upon them by those who were gone out from us. The Lord's power came over all, and we returned in great peace; witnessing that saying to be fulfilled, “Great peace have they which love your law.”—Psal. 119:165. We had several meetings in Philadelphia; and that ranting spirit which laboured to lay waste, and hinder the growth and prosperity of the Truth, was chained down by the power of God; our assemblies were filled with his love, and our hearts drawn near him. After the meetings, several of those who had gone out from us, began to cavil; and would have made me an offender for a word, which, they said, I had spoken.

But I saw their life was in jangling, and remembered our blessed Lord and Master's example, who, when he was accused, answered not a word; having regard to the honour of God, not to make our solemn assemblies a place of contention: for I had seen their behaviour at a meeting before, several of them speaking at once. So I took little notice of them, knowing that God is not the author of confusion, but of peace and love. In the sense of his love we travelled and laboured to turn people's minds to Christ the true Rock and Foundation, and to keep our consciences pure from the blood of all men. The Lord was with us, and fitted us for our service every day; and the angel of his presence attended his people, and drew them near to himself and one another; in which nearness our hearts were bound up with them. For though the power of darkness had been greatly at work to scatter and lay waste God's heritage in those parts; and had prevailed upon some, who had not been careful to watch in the light of Christ Jesus, but were drawn from the simplicity of the gospel into strife and contention, and a disposition to accuse their brethren; yet we found the Lord's power to be much at work in settling and establishing those who kept their minds close to him; so that many came to witness that saying fulfilled, “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is staid on you, because he trusts in you.”—Isa. 26:3. For we found them, to our great comfort, in a growing condition, and in unity one with another.

Being clear of those parts, we took our journey towards Maryland, having several meetings in our way. At Darby, we met with Henry Payton and his sister,[8] who were come out of England on Truth's service: they went back with us to several meetings, and the glory of the Lord overshadowed us to our comfort.

At Concord, where was held the last meeting we had in the province of Pennsylvania, the Lord crowned our assembly, and filled our hearts with his love; so that tears of joy flowed from most of us, and we were enabled to offer up praises unto the God and Father of all our mercies.

After the meeting, we parted with them in much bowed-downness of spirit, under a sense-of the Lord's goodness, and went on our journey towards Maryland: we travelled very hard for three days, before we got among Friends where our service lay. The ground was covered so thick with snow, that few had ever seen the like in those parts; which made our travels more difficult. Then we proceeded to Choptank, and visited Friends on the eastern shore; afterwards crossed Chesapeak-bay to the western shore, where we had several comfortable meetings.

When we were clear of those parts, it was upon us to go to Virginia and Carolina. A master of a ship that lay in Patuxent river took his boat and put us over the river, travelled along with us to Potomac, and went over that river, which was nine miles across. It was night, and we all strangers to the place: seeing a boat at a distance, we came up with her, and got her to pilot us to a plantation on the shore, where was a captain's house: they lived very poorly, having nothing to eat or drink but pone[9] and water; but they were willing to entertain us with such as they had. Next morning, we got horses, and hired a guide to Rappahannock river, where many ships lay; hoping to get over in some of their boats: but there came on such a strong north-wester that the people were afraid it would have blown down their houses; insomuch that we were forced to run out into the storm, which was very violent. After it was a little abated, it froze so hard that we could not get over the river for a whole week.

During our stay, we had disputes with several, and opened the principles of Truth to them. One major Taylor confessed to the Truth, and said. If the Quakers' principles were such as we declared, he was a Quaker in judgment; but desired to have more time with me, to be informed why we left the Church of England. I told him. The Church of England had the form of godliness, but denied the power; and from such the apostle advised to turn away: and they maintained tithes, which belonged to the Levitical priesthood, which we believe Christ came to put an end to: and their ministers preach for hire, and divine for money; cry peace to the people while they put into their mouths, but when they withhold, prepare war against them: they indeed profess good things, but do not practice them, and say and do not; unto such Christ cried, “Wo!” He answered, what I said was true; but said, “Our principles are good; though it is a great shame to us that our ministers are so wicked,” I told him, “We must judge of the tree by its fruit, according to Christ's own doctrine.” He said. “It was very true;” and seemed fully satisfied concerning our principles.

As soon as we could, we passed over the river, and travelled through the woods to Mattapony, where a friendly man dwelt, with whom we staid two days, and had a meeting at his house: many had the opportunity of hearing the gospel preached, and God's universal love proclaimed, which was glad tidings to their poor souls: many hearts were deeply affected by the Lord's power, and ours were bowed under a sense of his goodness to the children of men. After that meeting, several desired to have another; but we being pretty much pressed in spirit to visit some other parts of Virginia, and Carolina, proceeded on our journey. The next day we heard of one John Carver, who made a profession of Truth, but had seldom been at any of our meetings: we travelled to his house, as it was not above ten miles out of our way, and found the man much in imaginations, conceits, and notions: we were much burdened in our minds with him.

Next day we travelled towards Ware river, where the ship lay, in which we intended to take our passage for England: the day following we got on board, and staid some days. The people thereabouts being very desirous of having a meeting, one Sampson Dorill, a lawyer, gave us liberty to have one at his house. Abundance of people came, it being the first Quakers' meeting that had been in those parts: the Lord appeared in his love, and touched our tongues as with a live coal from his heavenly altar, and loosed them to declare of his mercies to those that would return at the reproofs of wisdom, and lay hold of the day of their visitation. Many hearts were reached, and several desired we would stay there and have more meetings: but having some further service to perform in visiting Friends, we took our journey towards Carolina; and got two negroes to carry us over York river in a small boat. The wind arose, so that we could not get the negroes to set us to the place intended; but they put us ashore at the first land they could get. As it was near night and there was hard frost and snow, we travelled almost till midnight before we got to a plantation; having our saddles and bags to carry. Next morning we got to Edward Thomas's and had a meeting; then crossed James river, travelled to Pagan's creek and Chuckatuck, and visited meetings as we went: so through the wilderness to Carolina, and there met with governor Archdale, who travelled through Carolina with us. We had good service in that wilderness country, and found a tender people who were glad to be visited. Being clear, we returned in peace, and attended the shipping for England. The fleet staying some time, we visited several places as we found an openness in people's hearts to receive the testimony of Truth; directing them to Christ, the true foundation. The Lord was effectually with us, to our great comfort; and having in ourselves the answer of well done, our souls were filled with praises to his most holy name, who is God, blessed forever.

On the 7th of the third month, 1697, we set sail from the Capes of Virginia, being about one hundred and thirty sail in company. In the ship that I came in, there were several Friends; one, whose name was Hugh Roberts, had the testimony of Truth to declare, and was coming to visit Friends in England: we had three meetings every week during our voyage. After we had been a week at sea, we met with a great storm, and were in danger to have run down one another. The man-of-war lay by, and caused all the fleet to lay to, under their mainsails, all night. There came a ship which had like to have run foul of us; but we backed our mainsail and got clear. The storm was so violent that it split our mainsail; and before we could get the yard lowered, it had like to have been carried away: the ship also sprung a leak, so that we were forced to keep the pumps going day and night for two weeks.

When the storm was over, and the sea calm, we stitched an old sail full of oakum, let it down under the ship, and undergird her; and after some time, the leak stopped. When the ship came to be searched, it was found to be an auger hole half open, and the other filled with something that had got into it. After five week's sail we met with a vessel that had been taken by the French: she gave us an account that there was a French fleet out at sea, waiting for us; so we kept to the southward, and almost run out our longitude before we got into our latitude, and escaped them. When we had been six weeks at sea, we made the isle of Scilly: the day after which, several great ships of war met us, in order to convey us up to London; but the wind being contrary, we were forced into Plymouth, and landed there on the 22nd of the fourth month: having had many refreshing seasons in the love of God, when on the deep ocean. The consideration of the Lord's dealings with us, in protecting us both inwardly and outwardly, bowed my mind in true thankfulness, and made me say, that he was worthy to be followed and obeyed in all his requirings.

The day after we landed, we had a large and comfortable meeting at Plymouth. The next day we took our journey towards Exeter, and were at their first-day's meeting. From there we travelled to Bristol, where I was taken very ill: but in a week's time recovered, and had two meetings there; after which I took my journey homeward, William Penn and several other Friends accompanying me some miles. I travelled hard, got well home, and found my wife and family well; which deeply bowed my spirit before the Lord, under the consideration of his tender dealings with me every way, and giving me my life for a prey. Though one may go forth weeping, bearing precious seed, I knew a returning as with sheaves in my bosom; blessed be the Lord, who is the Preserver of all those that put their trust in him.

Chapter III.

Visit to Ireland—Epistle to Friends in America—Visits to Scotland, and Some Parts of England—His Sickness—Further Religious Service in England, Scotland, and Ireland—His Third Visit to America—Religious Engagements in Various Parts of England, Scotland, and Ireland—His Last Illness and Death.

In the year 1698, a concern was upon me to visit Friends in Ireland. I took shipping on the 5th of the ninth month; but meeting with a contrary wind, was put into Ramsay bay, in the Isle of Man, where we staid some days; then weighed anchor and got to Castletown, went on shore, and found the people very wicked; they would scarce lodge us for our money, because we were Quakers. The next day we sailed to Dublin, and had three meetings there. Then I took my journey along with Thomas Wilkinson[10] into the north, having meetings at places where none had been before; to which abundance of people came, both English and Irish: we laboured in the love of God among them.

At one meeting there came two priests, who appeared at first to be very light and airy; but the Lord's power reached their hearts, and we heard they gave a good account of the meeting.

We had a meeting at Lurgan, where there was a marriage, to which many people came to see the accomplishment thereof. The gospel of life and salvation was freely preached unto them; some were reached, and turned to Christ, the true light and leader of his children. I was much concerned for a people that knew not the Lord, that they might be gathered unto him, and know salvation. We travelled very hard, and had meetings every day for twenty-eight days together; visiting people in many places where no Friends dwelt; and had good service, particularly in the county of Derry.

We had a meeting at a place called Articelly, to which abundance of people came, many of whom were Presbyterians; and they fenced against the testimony that was borne all they could: but the testimony ran so clear, that they were forced to confess to the Truth; for our labour was to turn all to God's teaching, and to Christ the true light, which enlightens every man that comes into the world. After the meeting we went to Newtown-Limavady, and lodged at an inn: the people were very hard and dark as to true religion, being puffed up with airy notions, so that we found little place there. Then we travelled to Dungivin, lodged at an inn, and got a house to have a meeting in the next day but in the morning there was a paper put upon the door, and all people forbidden thereby to go into that house, except the king's officers. So we kept the meeting without doors, although it was in the depth of winter; and the Lord favoured us with his living presence, and enabled us to preach the gospel unto the people. Several were convinced, and many well affected, who said, Though men envied us, yet the Lord favoured us.

From there we travelled towards Londonderry; lodged at an inn, and had a comfortable meeting that evening. Next day we went into the city in order to have a meeting: many of the magistrates being Presbyterians, were very envious, and threatened to put us in prison but we kept our meeting in the love of Christ. The governor, several officers, and soldiers, came to the meeting, showed kindness towards us, and restrained the rabble. I had to warn the people to repent of their wickedness, or else the hand of the Lord would be heavy upon them; and further to declare, that although many families in that place had lacked bread, yet if they repented not, many houses should have bread, and none of their family be left to eat it. After I had delivered the message, I was eased of the weight which lay upon me, and went away in peace. We then travelled to a place called Cumber: at an inn there we met with a great many Irish; one of whom was in fetters for stealing; the power of darkness was great among them. Next day we had a meeting appointed there, and many of those wicked people came, and their priest, they being Papists: the Lord caused his light to shine, and gave us his word and wisdom to divide it; so that the gospel was freely preached to them, and all directed to the light of the Lord Jesus Christ. One of them was convinced of the Truth, and much broken and tendered by the power of the Lord which overshadowed us. The priest confessed that the doctrine he had heard that day, was true.

Then we came back to Toberhead and Charlemont, and from there to Lugganory: we had several meetings; abundance of people flocked to them, and we directed all to the light of Christ Jesus, the Saviour of the world; and many confessed to the Truth. Then we came by Melton to Dromore, a place that had not been visited by Friends before, and had a meeting in a large room at an inn: many of the town's people came, and it was a day of God's love to them; they were mightily affected by the power of Truth, and very much broken and tendered thereby: several acknowledged to the Truth, and some were convinced. After the meeting, we went to Hillsborough, and had a meeting there that evening, to which several people of repute came: one 'squire Hill was deeply affected with the testimony of Truth; in a short time after he died. Then we travelled to Lurgan, to the province meeting; afterwards into the south and west parts of the nation, where we had service in turning many people unto the Lord. At Cork we met with several brethren in the work of the gospel: our hearts were truly opened one to another, and glad to hear of Truth's prosperity. After we had visited Munster, we returned to the province meeting in Leinster, and visited the counties of Carlow, Wexford, and Wicklow. Then finding my spirit clear, I returned to Dublin, took shipping for Whitehaven, and at the latter end of the eleventh month, 1698, I landed safe, and' returned home, staid some time, and was very diligent in attending meetings.

[The following Epistle to Friends in America, which is not inserted either in the MS or the former edition of this Journal, is recorded in Gough's History of Friends.]

Rogerscale, near Pardshaw, 27th of First month, 1699.

Dear Friends,

In the love of God, my soul dearly salutes you all in the seed of life; in which we are united the whole world over; and are bound up in that one eternal Power and Spirit by which we have been gathered to be a people, to appear in the world to make mention of his name, and that in truth and righteousness. All wait low in the depth of humility, daily to feel the operation and opening of his eternal Power upon your spirits; that by it you may be all guided in true fear and wisdom in all your exercises and services for God, in your several gifts and places that God has committed to your trust and charge: that you all be showing forth the glory, and power, and wisdom of him that has called you out of the dark world, and its ways, customs, and fashions, into his marvellous light, to walk therein, and to be faithful witnesses for him; and that your lights may so shine before men, that they may see your good works, that they may glorify your Father which is in heaven. My spirit and life is often with you, (in my secret retirement unto the Lord,) in those remote parts of the world.

Oh! my bowels yearn towards you, night and day, for your growth and prosperity in the Truth; that you may be kept under the government of Christ; where his peace will daily rise up in your souls; which will far transcend all earthly enjoyments, and redeem your affections out of the earth and the snares and corruptions that are in it, and will draw the affections heavenwards, and to seek those things that are above; so will the Lord bless you every way, both inwardly and outwardly; and your table will never become a trap and a snare to you.

Treasure the advice given of old, “Trust not in uncertain riches, but in the living God;” and then he will abundantly bless those parts of the world where it is your lot to dwell; he will be as a wall of fire round about you, and make your enemies to be at peace with you. Keep low, there is your safety; and look not out, but to the Lord, whose eye is watching over you for good: and his hand is full of blessings to be poured down upon you, if you give him not occasion to withhold them from you, by letting your minds wander from him. Therefore let a holy care and zeal be kept in by all, to keep their minds close to the Lord; so will he bring up a godly concern upon your minds, for the honour of God, and a holy, strict discipline amongst you; that all that profess the holy Truth, walk as becomes Truth in their life and conduct; and that those that do not, be dealt with, and if possible be reclaimed; and if not, to clear the holy Truth of them, and to wipe off the scandal that may be cast upon your holy profession, by their disorderly walkings.

I do not write these things, because you know them not, but to stir up your minds to put them in practice; and in order thereto, we are in the practice of appointing two or more faithful Friends in every particular meeting, to take inspection into the conduct of Friends, how they walk as becomes Truth; and these Friends of every meeting, (which we call a preparative meeting, because it fits those that are appointed,) to give a true account to the monthly meeting, that often consists of several, and takes a great deal of work from the monthly meeting; things being done without going there. We find great benefit in a strict discipline; and there is a great need of it.

I desire you to keep in the unity of the Spirit, which is the bond of peace; and stir up one another to love and good works; and that those whom God has trusted with heavenly gifts, may all improve them to his glory. And stir up one another to visit remote parts that need help; as Virginia, Carolina, New England, Barbadoes, Jamaica, Antigua, Nevis, And let all be done in the love of God; so will he bless you with spiritual blessings in his Son Christ Jesus; in whom I dearly salute you all, letting you know I am well every way. And to God's eternal arm of power I commit you all, and remain your friend and brother in the holy Truth.

James Dickinson.

In the forepart of the year 1699, I had drawings in my mind to visit Friends in Scotland, and proceeded on that service in company with Jonathan Burnyeat,[11] (son of John Burnyeat,) who had the like concern. As he was very young, and had not travelled in Truth's service before, a concern fell upon me for his preservation every way. The Lord was kind to us, and bore up our spirits in all our exercises. My companion was deeply opened into the mysteries of God's kingdom; and grew in his gift, so as to give counsel to young and old: he was very zealous against deceit and wickedness, both in professor and profane; and often reproved such. We travelled together through the south and west parts of Scotland, to Douglas, Hamilton, and Glasgow, and had many meetings among the people; labouring to turn their minds to the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the light of the world; warning all who professed the light to be their way, to be careful to walk therein, that they might know their communion to increase with the Lord, their fellowship one with another, and the blood of Christ to cleanse them from all unrighteousness.

Then we travelled down into the north, and had many precious meetings. From there we returned to the yearly meeting at Edinburgh, where we met with many brethren. Abundance of people came to the meeting, who were very rude and wicked, and laboured to disturb us; but the testimony of Truth coming over all, some among them were troubled, and chained down by the. power of God. We were deeply bowed under a sense of the Lord's favour to us: yet under great sorrow to see the wickedness of the people. A concern came upon Jonathan Burnyeat to write a warning to the inhabitants of that place, which was afterwards put in print to answer its service. Then we travelled to Kelso, and visited Friends there; so to Berwick-upon-Tweed; from there to Northumberland, and had meetings at several places: many hearts were reached by the power of Truth. Being clear, we returned home, and witnessed peace to flow in our souls.

Afterwards, finding drawings in my mind to visit several parts of England, I began my journey on the 17th of the eighth month, 1699, and visited Friends in Westmoreland and Yorkshire.

I was engaged to warn all in the love of Christ, to prepare for their latter end, and to know their peace made with the Lord; for a day of trial was coming, wherein all would stand in need of it. I travelled through Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire, to Huntingdonshire, where I met with great exercise with some apostates who had run out with George Keith. They laboured to lay waste the testimony of Truth; but the Lord manifested his power, and stood by those who were true to him, stopped the mouths of gainsayers, and confounded them. From there I went to the Isle of Ely, and Norfolk, and laboured in the work of the ministry for the gathering of people to Christ, that they might know him to be their Teacher; and for the settling of those who were gathered; stirring up all to their duties to God and one another. I then returned back to Huntingdon quarterly meeting; and was engaged to encourage Friends to come up in their several gifts and services; and to be faithful unto the testimony God had given them to bear, and to stand against every thing that would oppose it. There appeared at that meeting, some very malicious, who were bent to render Friends and their books odious; but they were frustrated and confounded by the Lord's power, which did eminently break forth amongst us, whereby the hearts of the faithful became truly glad.

After the meeting I returned through the Vale of Belvoir, and found several who were unfaithful to the Truth which they professed. I had a warning to them to come up in faithfulness unto the Lord, or else their latter end would be miserable; for the Lord would cast them off, and call others who would be more faithful. When I was clear of that place, I travelled through Derbyshire, Manchester, Mankinholes, so to York quarterly meeting, and from there home.

Soon after my return home, I was seized with sickness; and many concluded I could not live. But the Lord was kind to me, by his secret hand, when in weakness of body: and upon serious search I found nothing but peace, and that I had got my day's work done so far. My eye was unto the Lord Jesus, in whom my justification remained; and I found peace, and his words true by experience. In me you shall have peace, but in the world tribulation. The sense of it at that time was very comfortable, and engaged me to be given up to follow him faithfully unto the end; for it is those that are faithful unto death, that will receive a crown of life.

Some time after my recovery, there came a concern upon me to visit some cities in England. I took my journey on the 1st of the twelfth month, 1700; travelled to the city of Chester, and was at their meeting: a marriage being there that day, abundance of people came, but behaved rudely. The word of life was livingly declared, and the testimony of Truth exalted, whereby the unruly spirits were chained down.

I travelled through Staffordshire into Worcestershire to Worcester city; from there to Gloucester, and so to Bristol, and visited Friends, labouring in the work of the gospel: the word of life prevailed, and many hearts were reached by the power of Truth. After I had visited several parts of Gloucestershire, and had good service, I returned home to my family; was very diligent in attending meetings, both for worship and discipline, and visited meetings to and again in our own county.

Finding drawings in my mind to visit several remote parts in Scotland and Ireland, I took my journey on the 15th of the eighth month, 1701; some Friends accompanying me to the Border meeting, where we had a comfortable season together. I was engaged to warn Friends to be faithful to the Lord's requirings, and keep to the conduct of his Holy Spirit, that they might be guided in all their gifts to God's glory. The day following Robert and Richard Lattimer went with me into Scotland, and accompanied me several days. As we travelled on the road to Dumfries, I had some words of exhortation to several on the road; and some took it kindly. We met one man (whom we passed quietly by,) who was so filled with anger against us, that he followed me, and cried out in great rage, that I was a deceiver, and was going to delude the people. I stopped my horse, and asked him what he had to charge me with, I being a stranger to him, and he to me? But he cried. “Give me Scripture, or else I will not believe what you say.” Seeing him full of envy, I told him I had a Scripture for him, if he would hear it, which was, “Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast you your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you,”—Matt. 7: 6; which smote him so to the heart, that he was confounded, and left me.

When we got to Dumfries we had a meeting in the streets,[12] where some of the people were sober, but others very rude. I warned them to repent and turn to the Lord while he strove with them by his Holy Spirit, lest the day of their visitation should pass over: declaring unto them. That the Lord was angry with the wicked every day; and if they did not repent of their wickedness, all their talk of God, Christ, and religion would be in vain: for so long as people go on in rebellion against God's Holy Spirit, and give up their hearts to wickedness, their offerings are an abomination to him; as they might read in Isaiah, chap. 46.

After the meeting, I had discourse with several people at the inn where we lodged. From there proceeded on my journey towards Port Patrick, in order to take shipping for Ireland; and as I travelled through Galloway, the states of the people were clearly manifested to me. I spoke to them, and warned them to repent and prepare for their latter end: several were reached and confessed to the Truth. On the seventh-day of the week we got to Stranraer, lodged at an inn, and staid there the first-day.

A concern came upon me to go into the streets. I went, and the Friends along with me; we sat down in the market cross, (it being before the door of their worship house;) and when the people came forth, it was upon me to pray unto the Lord on their behalf. That he would be pleased to open their understandings, and give them the knowledge of himself, and their own states and conditions. The priest and people came crowding about me. Afterwards I stood up, and declared the way of life and salvation to them; warning all to repent of their wickedness, and give up their hearts unto the Lord, that he might purify them by the spirit of judgment and burning; “For,” I said, “until your minds are turned unto the inward manifestations of the Lord Jesus Christ, all your preaching, praying, and singing is but vain, and an abomination in his sight, who is of purer eyes than to behold iniquity with approbation.'” I directed them to the light and grace of God in their own hearts, and to mind the operations thereof; for it would teach them to deny ungodliness and the world's lusts, and to live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; letting them understand, that what is to be known of God is made manifest iii man, for the Lord has showed it unto them. Most of the people staid until I had cleared myself of what was on my mind, then we went back to the inn and had some discourse with the people of the house, who confessed that what I had declared was true.

Next morning I parted with the Friends in much sweetness of spirit. They returned home, and I travelled to Port Patrick, where I found the people very wicked. I had an opportunity with them at a burial: when the corpse was brought to the grave-yard, the people behaved rudely, and were vain: but my heart was filled with the love of God, and I was engaged in public testimony among them. The inhabitants came out of their houses and crowded about me. I opened unto them how they might come to the true knowledge of God; and showed them, according to the Scripture, that He was not far from them; “for God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness,” as says the apostle, “has shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God, in the face of Jesus Christ,”—2 Cor. 4:6, 7; and that was the true believers' treasure, and they had it in their earthen vessels. So I directed all to Christ, the word nigh in the heart and mouth, who was to be obeyed; and the hearts of several were reached by the power of God.

After I had cleared myself, there came one to me and acknowledged to the Truth of what I had delivered; and said, “The people were rude because they had no minister in the place, nor none to instruct them.” I told him they lacked the fear of God before their eyes, and the consideration of their latter end, otherwise they would not have been so light and vain upon such a solemn occasion. Then the man desired me to go along with him to his house; and finding freedom, I went, and found a woman there, who had a young child: her husband was gone over to Ireland, and she was going, with her child, after him. Understanding that I was a minister, she desired me to baptize her child; and said she would pay me. I told her, I did not preach for hire, but freely for the Lord's sake; and as for baptizing her child, the Scriptures did not warrant me in it; neither was I sent to baptize, but to preach the gospel, under a sense of a necessity the Lord had laid upon me. After some discourse, she seemed satisfied about it.

I then took boat for Ireland; while at sea we had a very high wind and much rain, so that most on board were afraid we should be lost; but I told them I did believe we should get safe across. The seamen were for returning back to Scotland: this appeared more dangerous than to continue our course for Ireland, r therefore entreated them to keep their course; which they did, and we were favoured to land safe at Carrickfergus the next day. I travelled through the north part of that nation, and had meetings where no Friends dwelt. The Lord manifested his power, and gave me his word and strength to publish it; so that some were convinced of the Truth. Being clear of the north, I travelled to Dublin; was at their half-year's meeting, and met with Friends from most parts of the nation. We had a comfortable time together: the affairs of the church were managed in love and condescension: the Lord crowned our assembly with his living presence, which bowed our hearts in thankfulness to him, the Fountain of all our mercies.

When this meeting was ended, I travelled to the province meeting in Munster; visited that province, and had good satisfaction. Then I returned to Leinster province meeting, and found Friends zealous for the promotion of Truth, and maintaining good order and discipline in the church; which was cause of gladness to my soul. Afterwards I was concerned to travel to many places in the province of Connaught, several Friends accompanying me. We had meetings at inns and in places where no Friends lived: the testimony of Truth was freely declared and the people directed to the light of Christ Jesus. Some strongly opposed the Truth, and others confessed thereunto.

After I was clear of that province, I returned towards Mountmellick, in company with a Friend. When we were on the road, a great many Irish beset us, and one of them knocked the Friend down with a pitchfork. I, seeing him fall, alighted from my horse, and helped him up from under his horse's feet, he being bloody and not able to speak for some time. When he was a little recovered, I spoke to one of the men who stood by, who had set on the rest, and told him who he was, and that they would be called to an account for what they had done. So we went back to a house, and got the wound washed and bound up. He not being able to travel any further, I left him there, hired a guide, and went to Mountmellick; where I spoke to a justice, and told him what usage we had met with on the road: he told me, He could do nothing for us, except I would swear to it; then he would grant me a warrant to apprehend them. I asked if he did not believe I spoke the Truth? He said, Yes,—but that did not answer the law: so I left him. A little while after, the Friend recovered, and the men were taken and punished by the magistrates. After I was clear of my service in that nation, I returned to Dublin, took shipping for Whitehaven, landed safe, went home and found my family well.

On the 17th of the ninth month, 1702., I had a concern upon me to visit Friends in the west of England, as far as Exeter; so took my journey, and travelled through several counties. The Lord favoured me with his living power, by which I was enabled to answer his requirings. I travelled hard, and passed through some danger by waters, it being winter; and when I was clear returned home with sweet peace. I was often concerned to attend the yearly meeting in London; and had no greater pleasure than to feel the Lord's heart-melting power to prevail over me, and keep my mind in true resignation to answer his requirings. He was graciously pleased to favour us, and reach to us by his secret Arm of salvation; and brought us into a holy travail for the good of the churches of Christ the world over, that the testimony of Truth might be exalted, and every thing that would hinder the growth and prosperity of God's people subdued. And as I gave up freely to the Lord's requirings, I witnessed peace; which greatly engaged me to follow him faithfully wherever he was pleased to draw me.

In the year 1704, I was engaged to visit Friends in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. Jonathan Burnyeat had the like concern, and we travelled together in sweet brotherly love. The Lord went before us, opened our service to us day by day, and enabled us to answer it; so that we found great encouragement to follow him fully. We had many meetings in these counties; exhorting Friends to prize the day of their visitation, (seeing the Lord had been pleased to make known his way and Truth to them,) lest their day should pass over. We laboured to stir up all to faithfulness to the Lord; and to wait to know their communion and fellowship to increase with him, and one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ to cleanse them from all unrighteousness. Having finished this service, I returned to my wife and family in peace. It was cause for thankfulness to find the secret hand of Providence attended us both inwardly and outwardly and helped us to bear our testimony for Truth, both in doing and suffering.

A law was now passed to recover tithes by warrant, and Friends were thereby brought into great suffering; but the Lord was near to bear up, and give boldness to stand in our testimony against that anti-christian yoke; and herein we found true peace. Many justices who were impropriators of tithes, laid heavy charges upon Friends; and some who had very little, suffered deeply. For a demand of three half-pence, they would often lay on ten shillings charges, and to recover their claims, make spoil of Friends' goods. Many of their honest neighbours were troubled that such things should be, and would have paid for them; but Friends held their refusal to pay, to be matter of faith and conscience, God's cause which he had entrusted us with, and not our own; Christ having put an end to the first priesthood and fulfilled the law that gave tithes, and is himself a holy High Priest forever, not after the order of Aaron, but after the order of Melchisedec. This being our faith, for which many Friends had suffered, and laid down their lives in nasty jails, we could not accept of this offer to pay for us, lest we should make shipwreck of faith and a good conscience, and lose our peace with God.

Great was my exercise many times for the promotion of Truth's testimony, and in standing against that which caused it to suffer. About this time there appeared some in our county very hot and zealous for order and discipline in the church, and busied themselves in church affairs. I saw they were going into Ranterism, and told Friends of it, desiring that endeavours might be used to help them, which was done; but they refusing to take advice, ran out into strife and contention, and became bitter opposers of Friends and Truth, to their own irreparable loss. My spirit was deeply afflicted, and under great exercise; but I could not help them. The Lord showed me it was a false birth, begotten in them by the power of darkness, and that all who joined with them would be hurt; but that they should proceed nu further than to manifest their folly.

I had many journeys on the account of the testimony God had given me to bear; for whenever I found the Lord to draw me forth, I gave up in obedience thereunto. My dear wife was a true helpmate to me, and never hindered me at any time; but often desired me to mind my service, and answer it; and let all other concerns give way to Truth's concerns. We found godliness was truly “profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come,” life everlasting; so that we were encouraged to follow the Lord fully, and keep to his eternal power that had prevailed over us. And the more our eyes were kept to him, the greater necessity we found of the help of his Holy Spirit to keep us in our way heaven-wards; knowing without him we could do nothing, and seeing our own infirmities to be great. But as we kept to the light and guidings of his Holy Spirit, we witnessed his strength manifested in our weakness; so that we were made to magnify that Arm which is strong, and as near to help his people as ever. Those who are alive to God know it; and the reason why people know it not, is, because they do not turn to and mind the manifestation of the light of the Lord in themselves, and come to walk in it; for “to as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.”—John 1:12. God is still faithful in fulfilling his promises; and whatever they ask in his name, he gives them: such are bound in duty to return to him thanksgiving and glory, who is worthy thereof.

I had a concern, for several years, to visit Friends a third time, in America; and understanding my ancient companion and fellow-labourer in the gospel, Thomas Wilson, had a concern for that land, I wrote to him, and we agreed to meet at Dublin. I acquainted my brethren with what I had upon my mind; and they having unity with me therein, our hearts were broken and tendered before the Lord, and our prayers were poured forth unto him for one another's preservation. I agreed with Richard Kelsey of Whitehaven, for my passage; and on the first-day of the week, I, with my dear wife, went to our own meeting at Pardshaw-Cragg: there I received notice that the master had ordered all his men to be on board by the tenth hour at night, intending to sail that tide. We had a blessed, heavenly meeting; after which I went to Whitehaven, my wife and several Friends accompanying me. We alighted at an inn, and had a sweet opportunity together; then went down to the ship-side, where I parted with my wife and Friends, (except John Robinson and Joseph Steel, who in pure love, accompanied me to Dublin) in much bowed-downness of mind before the Lord, in a sense of his love that had prevailed over me to answer his requirings; in which I found my peace to flow abundantly. Then I went on board, and in two days' time arrived at Dublin, where I met with my dear companion, Thomas Wilson, who was ready to embark with me. We staid two weeks in Dublin, had a comfortable time among Friends, and parted with them in much love and tenderness.

On the 8th of the tenth month, 1713, we sailed for Virginia. The wind being southerly, we stood down the North Channel, and in three days' time got clear of the land: but soon after, we met with a hard gale of wind, and were driven to the northward, near Greenland; so that we got but little on our voyage for several weeks. The master was very diligent and careful in the ship, and among his men, and respectful to us. He being a serious, thoughtful man, we had much discourse with him about religion; and he was several times reached by the power of the Lord, and confessed to the Truth, The Lord was kind to us, filled our hearts with his love, and sweetened our exercises when upon the deep ocean. The wind favouring us, we got well into Lynhaven bay within the capes of Virginia, that day nine weeks we lost sight of Ireland; then sailed up Chesapeake bay into Rappahannoc river, and went on shore at Queen Anne's town, on the 14th of the twelfth month, where we parted with our kind captain in great love. He spoke to us to take some of our provisions along with us, and gave us loving counsel; which counsel we took kindly.

After we landed, we found the people seemingly kind, went to a house and refreshed ourselves: from there we hired horses to York river. Next day we got over to the western shore, took our saddles, bags, and great coats, upon our shoulders, and travelled several miles: then met a man who knew me, and said he had best alight and take our things upon his horse; which we kindly accepted. So he went along with us to James Bates's house, who received us gladly. It being their week-day meeting, we went along with them, though we were very weary with travelling; yet the Lord remembered us in mercy, and we had a comfortable meeting with the few Friends there. Then we travelled through Virginia to North Carolina, and had many good meetings, both among Friends and others. Truth was manifested, and the gospel of life and salvation freely declared; and we were comforted with our brethren.

In Carolina we found a hopeful stock of young people, whom the Lord was qualifying for his service; and they received the testimony of Truth with gladness: we also met with several who had been convinced when we laboured in these parts before; and it was a great comfort to us to find them walking in the Truth.

After we were clear, we returned back to Chuckatuck, where we had a precious meeting; then travelled towards Nancemond, and had good service: after which we visited Friends up James river, and so returned by Black creek, and had several meetings. We directed the minds of people unto the Lord Jesus Christ, and to the blessed teachings of his Holy Spirit, which we found at work in the hearts of several, which was cause of gladness to us. Then we passed over Potomac river, travelled late, and got to a justice's house. He kindly invited us to stay all night, which we did, and had some religious discourse with him; he was very friendly, and confessed to the Truth. Next day we passed over Patuxent river, and visited Friends on the western shore of Maryland; where we found great openness both among them and others. From there we crossed the bay to the eastern shore, several Friends accompanying us: we travelled to Salem, in Jersey, having many glorious meetings, the Lord's good presence still attending us; and we staid the yearly meeting at Salem, which was large and to satisfaction. After we visited the meetings on that side of Delaware river, we passed over to Philadelphia, and visited Friends in that city: the Lord's power was witnessed in our assemblies, and the doctrine of Truth largely opened. From there we travelled to Germantown, and visited the meetings of Friends in Pennsylvania, some of which were the largest I had ever been at: people flocked so to them, that several hundreds were forced to stand without doors, the meeting-house not being large enough to contain them. We preached unto them the doctrine of Truth, whereby the hearts of several were reached. Then we crossed over the river Delaware again, and visited Friends in the Jerseys, After which, we took boat at Woodbridge for New York; from there to Flushing, and so to the yearly meeting in Long Island, which began the 30th of third month, and held four days i it was very large, and we had a good opportunity among Friends and others. Friends were in sweet unity, and the affairs of the church were managed in true brotherly love.

Being pressed in spirit to be at the yearly meeting at Rhode Island, we took shipping and arrived at Newport, the day before the meeting began. The universal love of God was held forth to the people, and many hearts were reached and tendered thereby. After the meeting, we travelled to Taunton, and had a meeting there among the Presbyterians: many came and were generally well satisfied; several were reached, and some convinced; and a meeting is since settled there. From there we travelled to Dartmouth: and finding a concern on my mind to go to the yearly meeting at Nantucket, I left my companion and took ship for that island. We were in some danger in passing through Woodse's Hole, which had a great many rocks in it; but having a fresh gale of wind, we got well through; the vessel struck ground several times, yet went off again without damage. Many of the inhabitants came to the meeting: the gospel was freely preached, and all directed to the Lord Jesus Christ, and to the word of his grace, that is still able to keep from evil, and give them a place among them that are sanctified. The people were generally sober, and some were convinced.

Being clear, I took shipping for Dartmouth; but meeting with a contrary wind, got to a harbour: and understanding there would be a meeting the next day at a Friend's house, about eight miles distant, I left the vessel and travelled along with the Friend to Daniel Butler's house, and staid there all night. Next morning went along with the Friends to the meeting: many sober people came, the testimony of Truth was declared, and the Lord's power witnessed to our comfort. After the meeting, I proceeded to Sandwich, where I met with my companion. We travelled through the country to Boston, and had some meetings to satisfaction as we went. At Boston we had several meetings; the testimony of Truth was declared, and the way of life and salvation manifested; and several were reached and affected thereby.

From there we went to Lynn, Salem, and the eastern parts of New England, and as far as Dover; setting forth to the people that the love of God was extended unto them in order for their salvation. The priests were enraged against us, and laboured to keep the people from coming to our meetings; but Truth prevailed, and abundance of people flocked to hear the gospel preached; so that several were convinced, and the mouths of gainsayers stopped.

After we had cleared ourselves there, we returned back to Boston and had several meetings: Truth prevailed, many hearts were affected, and several convinced. From there we travelled to the yearly meeting at Providence: there came several rude and disorderly persons; but we warned them to repent of their wickedness and turn to the Lord. The power of the Lord came mightily over the people, and we had a glorious, heavenly meeting. From there we travelled to Rhode Island, and had several meetings in our way.

After our service was over in that place, we parted with Friends, and returned by water to Long Island; being desirous to be at the yearly meeting at Burlington, which is held there for West Jersey and Pennsylvania. We took shipping at Newport, and were nine days at sea; had a meeting on board, and had several opportunities to vindicate our principles: some were reached by the Truth. We landed at Flushing, had a meeting there, and several more on the island: abundance of people attended them; the Lord's power was eminently witnessed, and the hearts of the faithful truly comforted. From there we went to New York, several Friends accompanying us; and we had a precious meeting there: then crossed over to Elizabeth-town by sea; so travelled to Woodbridge and had good service there: many hearts were reached by the Truth, and some convinced. Then we travelled through Jersey to Pennsylvania again, where we met with John Salkeld and John Wright at the Falls meeting, who were travelling in Truth's service.

The next day, we were at their quarterly meeting, and encouraged Friends to keep to the good order established among us; the Lord owned us, and filled our hearts with love to him and one another. After the meeting, we travelled towards the wilderness, and visited Friends in North Wales: we had several meetings in the country thereabouts, and many were reached and convinced of God's blessed Truth. At Nottingham we had a large and heavenly meeting; it was held in the woods, because the house was not large enough to contain the people.

From there we came back by way of New Garden, were at a marriage there, and had good service in opening to the people the way of life and salvation; and showed them it was the Lord that joined people, and not the work of any priest under the law, nor minister under the gospel, but the parties concerned by consent; and those that were present were witnesses, as in the case of Boaz and Ruth: the Lord owned us, and Truth came up into dominion.

We travelled to Philadelphia, took boat and went to Burlington yearly meeting; where the Lord owned us with his living presence, and we had a glorious season together. The meeting held five days; and there was such a concourse of people that we had two meetings at once, one at the court-house, and the other at Friends' meeting-house. The affairs of Truth were managed in love and meekness, to the edification of the church. We parted in love, returned to Philadelphia, and visited the outcorners of Pennsylvania. Afterwards we proceeded to the yearly meeting on the eastern shore of Maryland, which held four days: we had good service and came away in peace of mind. Then we visited the lower counties of Pennsylvania, where we had many precious meetings, and several were convinced of the Truth. We returned again to Philadelphia; and after some stay in and about that city, we parted with Friends in the love of God, travelled down to Oxford, in Maryland, and agreed with the master of a vessel for our passage to England: but not being fully clear, we were desirous to have staid a little longer. The master told us, his signal for sailing should be the firing of a gun, and so we might stay till then; but we were called on board before we had quite gone through our service.

On the 7th of the ninth month, 1714, we took shipping at Oxford; and within two days after we set sail, the ship sprung a leak. We were greatly exercised in our spirits, and treated with the captain to return back, in order to get the leak stopped; but he and the rest of the officers resolved to proceed on their voyage. The wind being contrary, they could get little forward, but rode at anchor; in which time we told the captain, it appeared to us that divine Providence had put the opportunity into his hand, whereby he might save his own life, and all that were with him, and the ship too. When we had got about twenty leagues from the land, we were becalmed; and the leak increased so, that she made near two feet water in half an hour; then they all repented that they did not take our advice. We were deeply exercised, and poured forth our prayers unto the Almighty; who was graciously pleased to grant our petition, and caused a gentle south wind to blow the next day; and the leak stopped so as the pumps kept her clear; and after some difficulty we got to an anchor in Lynhaven bay.

We went on shore the 25th of the ninth month, and the next day got among Friends. They were glad to see us; and our hearts were deeply thankful to the Almighty for so signal a preservation. We laboured in the work of the gospel at Nancemond, where several hearts were thoroughly reached by the penetrating power of God. After which, we visited several places remote from the body of Friends; then crossed James river, and visited Friends in York county; we had several meetings, to which abundance of people came: the doctrine of Truth was declared, and several convinced, which was cause of gladness to us. From there we travelled into the county of Kent, where we had laboured in the work of the ministry twenty-three years before: several were then convinced, and a meeting settled from that time. We rejoiced to find people gathered to God; and we had many precious meetings in those parts. We travelled next into the county of Westmoreland; had good service there, and found great openness among the people: several were convinced of the Truth, the mouths of gainsayers were stopped, and the testimony of Truth exalted over all. Then we found our hearts engaged to visit Friends on the western shore of Maryland; so travelled to Potomac river, which we got over with some difficulty and charge; being willing to spend and be spent to answer the Lord's requirings; who had been kind to us and his people, in blessing us both inwardly and outwardly. Friends were willing to accompany us; and we were truly thankful unto the Lord, that he had raised up a people, and made them willing to serve him: for when we travelled in those parts in 1692, we had no guide for a hundred miles, and lay out in the woods; yet we travelled in faith that the Lord would spread his Truth, and exalt it in the earth. We saw it fulfilled in part; and firmly believe that he will carry it on to his own glory. We took our journey through the woods, and lodged at a poor man's house that night. We gave him money for his kind entertainment: he told us he had entertained many, but never had taken anything before: we told him we were not willing to be chargeable to any, but would freely pay him.

We travelled to Patnxent river, and had a meeting on the first-day: it was a day of visitation to the youth, whose hearts were opened by the love of God, in which we laboured to turn their minds to his teaching. We made a thorough visit on the western shore: many flocked to our meetings and heard the gospel freely declared, and the principles of Truth laid open: several were convinced, and the faithful comforted in the Lord. Then we passed over the river to the eastern shore, and had a meeting; to which abundance of people came, that were not Friends. The Lord appeared to our comfort, and we had good service in many places in those parts. Being clear of that shore, several young men got a boat, and set us over the bay. It being very foggy, we landed at Sharp's Island, and went on shore: the young men made a fire near the boat, and lay by it all night; my companion and I went to a house upon the island, where we staid until the next morning. The people were very loving, and would take nothing for our bed. Then we took boat, and through some difficulty got to West river and had several meetings among Friends: we laboured in the love of God, to settle them upon Christ, the Rock and Foundation.

After which, finding our spirits fully clear, we concluded to take shipping for England. There being a ship bound for London, we agreed for our passage; went on board on the 10th of the twelfth month, 1714, and on the 17th of the same, weighed anchor, and came out of the capes of Virginia, We had a good passage till we came near the coasts of Ireland, where we met with a small ship bound for Cork: we left the ship we were in and went on board the small vessel. Afterwards we met with a contrary wind, and were seven days at sea; then landed safe at Cork, on the 30th of the first month, 1715. We staid a meeting with Friends at Cork, and the Lord's power was manifested among us; his love melted our hearts, and prepared sacrifices of praises to the God and Father of all our mercies, who with his dear Son, is worthy thereof.

After the meeting, we took our journey towards the province meeting at Mountmelick, and with hard travel got there on the first-day. Friends were settled in the meeting before we went in: the Lord's power overshadowed the meeting in a wonderful manner, so that we were sweetly comforted together. After this meeting, I parted with my dear companion, Thomas Wilson, in the love of God, and went with Friends to Dublin, The next day, had a meeting to satisfaction: after which I took shipping, sailed that night, and landed next evening at Whitehaven, and was at our own meeting at Pardshaw-Cragg; where Friends were glad to see me returned safely from so long a journey; and we were comforted in the Lord and one another.

In all this voyage and journey, we were highly favoured with health for the most part, and way was made for us far beyond what we could expect; having travelled by sea and land about 12,000 miles. At my return home, I found my wife and family well, for which I was truly thankful: the Lord who separated us for his name sake, brought us together again to our great comfort; which caused us to admire his goodness, and to bless his most worthy name.

I staid but a few weeks at home before I took my journey for London; having drawings in my mind to be at the yearly meeting there. I travelled to Yorkshire, and had several meetings as I went along, which were to the satisfaction and comfort of Friends. I got to London the day before the meeting began, and met with several brethren from Ireland, and most parts of this nation. The Lord crowned our assemblies with his living presence, and filled our hearts with the joy of his salvation.

In the year 1717, I passed through various exercises, yet the Lord's power supported and enabled me to stand in my testimony both in doing and suffering. A concern increased in my mind for the peace and welfare of the church, and that every thing might be kept out which would hurt the growth and prosperity thereof We were greatly exercised in our county with many filthy and unclean spirits; and much abused by them both in meetings and out of meetings, I went to the yearly meeting for the northern counties, held at Chester, which was to the satisfaction and comfort of Friends.

On the 29th of the third month, I took my journey from my own house to the yearly meeting in London, and had service at several places on the road, I got to London the night before the meeting began, and met with brethren from several parts of this nation and Ireland. The meeting was large; and Friends were zealously concerned for the prosperity of Truth, and that every thing might be kept out of the church which would hinder the growth thereof We had many precious seasons, and were comforted in the Lord.

After the meeting, I was engaged by the love of God, to visit several parts of this nation. At Reading, Friends were under a great exercise with a rending, dividing spirit, that many were betrayed into; yet the Lord's power came over them, and they who had gone out into separation, left their meeting and returned to Friends again. My travail among them was. That all might be baptised down, as into the bottom of Jordan, there to be purged from their uncleanness; and so be fitted for the camp of God, and know him to tabernacle with them. The Lord's power was manifested among us, to the comfort of all who truly loved it. Then I travelled to Newbury; and through Wiltshire to Bristol. My exercise was. That all might be sensible of the work of the Lord to sanctify and fit them for his kingdom. I saw the fields ripe unto harvest, which was great, and the faithful labourers therein were but a few; my cries went forth unto the Lord, That he would fit many, and send them forth into his harvest. He was near to answer and to bow the spirits of many under the operation of his hand; of which I was glad, under a sense of his great love to mankind. After I was clear of that city, I returned homewards; visited many places, and had good satisfaction.

Having some drawings to visit Friends and others in Northumberland and Durham, on the 11th of the eleventh month, 1717, I took my journey and went to Wigton; and was exercised with some ranting spirits: yet the Lord's power came over them, and the faithful were comforted. Then I travelled to Carlisle, and from there to Alstone, where I found several who were convinced of the Truth, and brought forth in public testimony: it was cause of gladness to me, thus to behold the Lord's work to prosper. A tier which I passed on through Allondale, where I found some young people convinced, and hopeful to do well. Then I travelled to Newcastle, and warned people to give up their hearts unto the Lord. From there I went to Shields and Sunderland, where I met with Thomas Story, who was travelling upon Truth's account, and had been above three years from his own habitation; having visited Friends in America, and many parts of England, Wales, Holland, Scotland, and Ireland. I was glad to see him, and to hear of the prosperity of Truth in those parts. After which, I proceeded on my journey to Stockton, Darlington, Auckland, and Raby, visiting Friends; and being clear I returned home.

Some time after my return, I went to our quarterly meeting at Carlisle; and so to the yearly meeting at Kendal, which was large. Several people of other persuasions came into the meeting, who were sober and attentive, and pretty much affected with the testimonies that were borne: the meeting ended well, and to good satisfaction.

On the 17th of the third month, 1718, I took my journey for the yearly meeting in London along with Peter Fearon. We had several meetings as we went; and in London we met with Friends from several parts of this nation and Ireland, who were come to attend that meeting. We laboured together for the good of the church; and the Lord was with us, and enabled us to go through our respective services to his glory, and our mutual edification. After the meeting I returned home to my family, and found peace; as I always did in answering that service I believed the Lord required of me. When I was at liberty I laboured diligently ia my outward business, not only because of the benefit I received therefrom, but that I might be exemplary among my neighbours.

A concern having been upon my mind for some time, to visit the western parts of England, I took my journey on the 2nd of the ninth month, 1718, and visited several counties as far as Bristol, and had service in that city: after which I travelled into Devonshire; then returned to Bristol, and from there I travelled through Wiltshire, by way of Reading to London. After some stay in and about that city, I returned home, having had many precious meetings among my brethren. My labour and travail was, to encourage the faithful, stir up the backward, and warn the wicked to repent, and turn to the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Finding myself engaged to visit Friends in the nation of Ireland once more, on the 23rd of the eighth month, 1722, I set forward on my journey, and went to David Hodgson's [near Carlisle,] in company with several Friends.

Next morning we met John Urwen,[13] (who had the like concern with me,) at Allason's Bank in Scotland; and proceeding to Dumfries we lodged there. Next morning the Friends who came to accompany me returning home, we continued our journey, and found the people high in notion, and bent against the Truth, which occasioned us to mourn before the Lord.

We then went to Baldown to William Boyges's, and had a comfortable meeting there on the first-day. The day following we travelled to Port Patrick, where we staid some time, (the wind being contrary,) under great exercise of spirit, because of the wickedness of the people.

We had a meeting among them at a widow's house where we lodged, and the gospel was freely preached unto them; some were affected therewith, and confessed to the Truth, which filled our hearts with thankfulness unto the Lord, who made way for us to clear our consciences among them. On the first-day of the week my companion had a concern upon him to go to their worship house, and I found it my place to go with him. After the priest had done, my companion stood up to clear himself of what was upon his mind; but the priest, contrary to his promise, that 'he should be heard,' went out, and ordered all the rest to follow him, or else the door should be locked: so they all came out, and we found ourselves clear, and came away in peace.

Next day we took boat for Ireland, and had a great storm at sea, and were in danger of being cast away; but the Lord preserved us, and we arrived safe on shore; and went next day to Lisnagarvy, where Friends were glad to see us. We travelled through the north, and had many precious meetings. After we were clear of the north, we proceeded to Edenderry, visiting meetings all along; labouring in that ability God gave us, for the stirring up of all to faithfulness. We went from there to the province meeting at Carlow. After our service there, we travelled into the counties of Wicklow and Waterford, and had many blessed seasons in those parts; labouring to gather people to God's teaching, and to turn them from that of Satan.

Then we travelled to Ross, and through several places to the province meeting at Cork, which was large. The affairs of the church were carried on and managed in the peaceable spirit of Christ, and the meeting ended well. After which we visited Friends in the county of Limerick; then travelled to the province meeting at Mountmelick; and from there to my former dear companion Thomas Wilson's, and were sweetly refreshed together in the enjoyment of God's love. We parted with him in much tenderness at Edenderry, travelled to Dublin, and had some service there.

Finding ourselves clear of that city we took shipping for England. On our voyage we had a great storm, and cast anchor in Ramsey bay. The wind was so strong that we could not raise our anchor, and in the night, another ship was driven upon the bow of ours; our bow-sprit got between her main-mast and mizen-mast, and she was like to have driven us from our anchor; but our men cut their mizen-shrouds, and we got clear one of another, which was a great mercy; for had it been otherwise, we might all have perished. Thus the Lord's arm was made bare for our help; and we landed safe at Parton in Cumberland. The next day, I parted with my companion, returned home and found my family well. Thus was I brought under renewed obligation to return praise and thanksgiving to the holy name of the Lord, who had helped me through my travels, been with my dear wife, and brought us together again, with an increase of peace in our bosoms. I staid at home some time, and was very diligent in attending meetings, and visiting Friends to and again in our county.

After this, a concern came upon me to visit Friends in the west of England. My wife at this time being under great weakness of body, I was unwilling to leave her; but she bid me answer what the Lord required of me, and not let anything hinder my service; tor life is in the hand of the Lord, and he can give or take away at his pleasure. So I gave up to the Lord's requirings, in which I witnessed peace. I set forth on my journey with William Dixon,[14] a Friend of our meeting, who had the like concern with me. We travelled through Lancashire, and the west parts of England, as far as the Land's end: our labour was, to turn people to the Lord, and settle them on his teachings. We found an openness in many places to receive the testimony of Truth, for which we were truly thankful: after which, finding ourselves clear, we returned home.

On the 2nd of the tenth month, 1726, I set forward on my journey, and William Dixon along with me, to visit Friends in Yorkshire. We had a meeting at Soulby, among some people who had been hurt by a wrong spirit, and were gone into separation from Friends; yet we found the reaches of the love of God unto them, and several hearts were touched therewith. We went to Penrith that evening, and had a meeting there, to which several of the Separatists, and abundance of other people came. The Lord's power was manifested, and the testimony of Truth declared: we directed them to the light of the Lord Jesus Christ which shines in their hearts, in order to give them the knowledge of God, whom to know is life eternal. Many hearts were reached, and we had the answer of peace for our labours of love among them. After which we went to Strickland and had a meeting there, which was to satisfaction; and from there to Swaledale, Richmond, and several parts of Yorkshire to the quarterly meeting at York, where we met with John Salkeld, who was come from America to visit Friends in England. At this meeting I laid before Friends the necessity there was to take care to preserve the accounts of Friends' sufferings, and of their exercises and deep trials they had undergone for the testimony the Lord had given them to bear: and how he had made manifest his eternal power for their help, and wrought wonders for their deliverance; that those accounts might be serviceable to future generations; and the quarterly meeting took notice of it, and agreed that it should be offered to the yearly meeting in London. I had offered the same to our quarterly meeting in Cumberland, which meeting agreed with me. Afterwards we travelled to the quarterly meetings at Lancaster and Kendal; both of which meetings agreed with me in my proposition for collecting the accounts of Friends' sufferings. Then being clear of what was upon our minds, we returned home, and found things well, which was cause of gladness to me.

After I had staid some time at home, I took shipping at Whitehaven for the half-year's meeting at Dublin, at which meeting I offered the concern which was upon my mind, for putting Friends' sufferings in order for future service. The meeting took it under consideration, and became zealously concerned that care might be taken for preserving the records of Friends' sufferings, for the benefit of future ages; that they might know how the Lord had raised up a people, who were no people, to bear testimony to his name and Truth upon earthy not only to believe, but also to suffer for it. After the meeting was over, I returned home.

In the year 1727, I travelled to the yearly meeting at Chester, which was large; and many testimonies were borne, directing all to the Lord's teachings: after which I travelled through several counties to the yearly meeting at Bristol; still labouring in that ability God gave me, to gather people to the teachings of his Holy Spirit. From there I travelled to the yearly meeting in London; and laid the concern which had been upon my mind for some time, about collecting and printing an account of the deep sufferings which Friends had undergone; that they might be transmitted to future ages, for a testimony of the great favours and mercies of God to his faithful people. The meeting saw it was necessary, and the same was soon after proceeded upon. Then I got ease of the concern which had been so long upon me. After the meeting was over, visiting some meetings in my way, I returned home and found things well; for which I was made humbly thankful to the Lord, who provided for me both inwardly and outwardly; blessed be his holy name forever.

—————

And thus ended, as far as appears, the writings of this worthy man; for after the year 1727 we find no account, though he travelled several times to the yearly meeting in London, and through many parts of this nation; but being seized about that time with a paralytic disorder, that might probably be the reason that he committed no more to writing.

In the year 1726, his wife died, which was a great loss to him, (his bodily infirmities considered;) but he bore it with patience, and resignation unto the divine will, believing it was her great and everlasting gain.

He was very constant in attending the quarterly meetings in this county, and also the meetings for worship and discipline he belonged to, even when under great weakness of body; which is a convincing testimony of his steady and unshaken zeal for the promotion of Truth, and the good of souls.

About a year before his death, his distemper, the palsy, increased upon him to such a degree that he lost the use of one side, and his speech was in a great measure taken from him; yet he had small intervals, in which he seemed to surmount the decays of sinking nature, and appeared in a sweet and heavenly disposition of mind; intimating that his day's work was done; and that God, whom he had served, was still with him; that he had the evidence of peace and future felicity sealed upon his soul, and was only waiting to be removed; but was fully resigned unto the Lord to wait his time: and leaning upon the divine Arm of consolation, his afflictions and exercises became more easy to him.

He departed this life on the 6th day of the third month, 1741, and was buried on the 8th of the same, at Friends' burying-ground at Eaglesfield, in the county of Cumberland.

—————

The Testimony of Pardshaw monthly meeting

concerning our worthy Friend, James Dickinson, deceased.

James Dickinson of Greentrees (otherwise Moorside,) belonging to Pardshaw meeting, in the county of Cumberland, was born at Lowmoor, of honest parents, in the year 1658.

The Lord was pleased tenderly to visit him in his young years, whereby he became acquainted measurably with his teachings when but a child; but for lack of keeping a steadfast eye to the guidings thereof, was led forth into those follies and vanities of the world incident to youth. But such was the love of the heavenly Father, (as he often declared amongst us in the spring of the gospel) that he was met with again, and brought back as a sheep strayed from the Father's fold; and after much affliction and solitary exercise, was fitted for future service; and engaged in a public testimony about the eighteenth year of his age. He was shortly after concerned to go to several meetings of the dissenters in the country where he lived, and underwent hardships among them; yet Truth crowned his labours with some convincement. After which he travelled in the service of the ministry, in several counties through England, Ireland, and Scotland; undergoing sufferings in the times of persecution. He visited Friends in Ireland twelve times, three times in America, once in Holland and Germany, and laboured much in his native country and nation of England, many having been convinced by him. Much more might have been said concerning his labours and travels in the work of the ministry, but we refer to the preceding journal.

We have this testimony to give concerning our dear deceased Friend: he was a diligent labourer at home, a constant attender of meetings, a sincere travailer therein, very tender over the youth, a nursing father to the least, and full of charity to all rightly anointed; yet not hasty to join with forward spirits. He was also careful not to join in party causes, but was greatly concerned for the promotion and unity of the church; and often expressed his steadfast faith of Truth's testimony being exalted in the nations, and the anti-christian oppression of tithes brought down; and with concern declared his sorrow for such as weakly complied therewith.

When, his natural abilities failed, he would speak strongly, apparently beyond his age and constitution. He was seized with a palsy near a year before he died, which detained him from coming to meetings, and by which his speech was much taken from him; but he would often say. Though he was weak, he was well, and had nothing but peace on every hand; expressing his care and concern for the growth and preservation of the church.

He died on the 6th of the third month, 1741, and was interred on the 8th of the same, in Friends' burying-ground, at Eaglesfield, being accompanied by a great many Friends and others. Aged eighty-three, a minister sixty-five years.

Read, approved, and signed, at our quarterly meeting, held at Pardshaw Hall, in the county of Cumberland, the 1st of the second month, 1742, By John Wilson.

—————

The Testimony of John Bell,

to the memory of our worthy Friend, James Dickinson, deceased.

Reader, you are, with this, presented with a brief account of the diligent labours and hard travels, of that faithful servant and eminent minister of the gospel of Christ, James Dickinson; to whose faithfulness to the Truth, manifested in a humble, self-denying life and circumspect, godly conduct, I could not but give this brief testimony; for it was this which greatly recommended that ministry in which he zealously laboured for the promotion of piety and virtue, both at home and abroad; so that it often proved effectual to reach the witness of God in the consciences of those to whom he ministered. It may be truly said of him, that he went not about to publish the gospel of life and salvation with enticing words which man's wisdom teaches, but in the power and demonstration of the Spirit; for he was not a minister of the letter only, but of the Spirit: it was by being obedient to the powerful workings thereof in himself, and by waiting diligently for the movings and openings of it, that he became well qualified for that service.

His testimony was living and powerful, and often very terrible to the workers of iniquity, yet very edifying and comfortable to the well-minded, and encouraging to them to wait for the help of the Holy Spirit, whereby they might be made able to persevere in the way of life and salvation; which way is revealed and made manifest by the light of the Son of God, which in some degree shines in the hearts of all mankind, and is the unerring Guide to all such who believe in it, and are obedient to its discoveries, to bring them to the strait gate, and into the narrow way which leads to eternal happiness. By his powerful and lively testimonies, the weak and doubtful were often encouraged to depend upon that powerful Arm, whereby they had been gathered out of the many evils which are in the world; and the feeble-minded confirmed in the belief of the Truth, and their faith strengthened in Jesus Christ the way to the Father. For he was often concerned in the openings of Truth, to speak to the various states and conditions of the people to whom he was called to minister, having through the mercy of God the word to preach, and wisdom given him to divide it aright; and many yet living who have sat under his testimonies with great comfort and satisfaction, can witness that he did not “handle the word of God deceitfully,” but was “a workman that needed not to be ashamed.”

He was an able minister of the new covenant, a zealous promoter of the cause of Truth, and laboured faithfully in that good work whereunto he was called, in that ability which God gave. He travelled much in that service through many difficulties and hardships, and at times in great jeopardy; but as his dependence was upon God, whom he faithfully served and obeyed, he was preserved through all those difficulties, and enabled to perform his service, and cheerfully to undergo the hardships he met with; for the Lord had blessed him with a good constitution and bodily strength, so that he was well qualified both with spiritual and temporal ability, for that service whereunto he was called and appointed, as plainly appears by his journal. For, as has been already said, he laboured faithfully where he came, in word and doctrine; and many were turned from darkness to light, and from the power of satan to God by his ministry, and the flock of Christ edified, comforted, and encouraged in a faithful perseverance.

And although he travelled much, and often hard, as plainly appears by his said journal, (not being willing to make the gospel chargeable,) yet when he was drawn forth to visit the churches abroad, as soon as his service was over, and his spirit eased of the concern which was upon him., it appears, he was diligent to return to his outward habitation and business, that he might not only be a good example to others, but might also mind his service among Friends at home. A good example indeed of an able minister and faithful elder of the church of Christ! worthy to be observed and followed by all, to whom a dispensation of the same gospel is given to preach; for wheresoever any are truly qualified and called to the ministry, there will be a service for them among Friends where they dwell, in that ministry whereunto they are called; so that when any are called to visit any of the churches, there ought still to be a care upon their minds to return, when they have discharged themselves faithfully of that concern required of them: for the truly called of God will find, if they diligently mind the manifestations of the Holy Spirit which qualifies for service, and leads the obedient servants of Christ into it, that there is a service for them to do among Friends, in those places where they are inhabitants; and the care of the churches there, according to their several growths, will fall upon them; and this service ought not to be neglected; for wheresoever that may happen, such will suffer loss.

Therefore I would tenderly advise, in the love of Christ, all who are concerned in the work of the ministry, that they be very careful to mind this their service; and, by that help given of God, endeavour to follow the example of this faithful and experienced elder: for, according to his account in the preceding journal, (to the truth whereof many now living can testify,) when he returned from his labours and travels abroad in visiting the churches, he diligently attended the particular meeting to which he belonged, also was often concerned to visit neighbouring meetings; and not less careful to frequent meetings for discipline, that he might be helpful to his brethren in the management of the affairs of Truth; which nearly united them one to another.

But, by what is above said by way of caution, I do not intend to discourage any who are rightly concerned; but on the contrary hand, would recommend the advice of the apostle to Timothy, “Let the elders that rule well, be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.”—1 Tim. 5:17, and not only so, but I would also beseech Friends, when it may please God to raise up and qualify any for the work of the ministry, that they do not slight it, nor despise the instruments who may be so concerned, how mean soever they may appear in the eyes of men; for it is the Lord's work, who is able to qualify: but be diligently exercised in your minds, that they may feel the help of your spirits for their strength and encouragement; for the exercise and concern of the true ministers, is of more weight to them than some are aware of.

As to this our worthy Friend, he was a man much esteemed in his own country, and Friends there highly valued him for his work's sake and his faithfulness therein; and his humble deportment, circumspect life and godly conduct, gained him a good report among his neighbours, and those with whom he conversed.

He also frequently attended the yearly meeting in London; and the still, retired frame of mind he often sat in, when in that meeting, has affected the minds of some who have beheld him; and when he spoke to matters, it was in humility, and very weighty, greatly to the satisfaction of many brethren, his words being seasoned with grace. Yet he was not so peculiarly gifted, for the management of the discipline of the church, as some others in his time, who were not so eminent in the ministry; whereby the great wisdom of the Almighty is plainly seen; for he fits and qualifies his faithful servants, by his own power and Holy Spirit, for that work and service in the church, to which he sees fit to appoint them; as the apostle said; “Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord; and there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which works all in all.”—1 Cor. 12:4-6. And the apostle, when he speaks of Christ's ascending up on high, when he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men, goes on, and further says, “And he gave some apostles, and some prophets, and some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ,”—Eph. 4:11, 12. And as the church comes to be restored into its primitive purity, the same Lord is able, in our day, to quality his faithful servants, and give gifts to them for the perfecting the saints, that the body may edify itself in love. It was for the work of the ministry that this our worthy Friend was peculiarly gifted, in which he laboured faithfully many years, and was an example of humility and meekness; which with his pious life and godly conduct, greatly adorned the doctrine he had given him to preach; for he walked in the “just man's path,” which “is as the shining light, that shines more and more, unto the perfect day;” Prov. 4:18; and his 'zeal for the cause of Truth continued, while strength of body was given him to perform his service.

I shall now recommend to Friends in general, the serious perusal of the foregoing journal; wherein is set forth the protection, and many preservations of the author, by that mighty Hand and Power on which he depended; that every one may be stirred up to rely on the same divine Arm which preserved him during a long pilgrimage, through many exercises and difficulties; that by the help of the Holy Spirit, many may be enabled to follow this faithful man's good example in humility, piety, virtue, and faithfulness to the Truth we profess. And now that it has pleased the Great Creator of all things to remove him from us, and to take him to himself, he having ceased from his labours, his works follow him; and I doubt not, but through Jesus Christ our Mediator, he has obtained an entrance into that everlasting rest which remains for the righteous.

And his memory lives with the faithful who knew him: for, as the psalmist says, “The righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance;”—Psal. 112:6: and, as Daniel the prophet says, “They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness, as the stars forever and ever.”—Dan. 12:3. May we, by following his steps, attain the like reward; and with him, among saints and angels, and the spirits of just men made perfect, praise God our Redeemer, and receive that crown of righteousness, which is laid up for all those who love the appearance of Jesus Christ our Lord; unto whom, with the Father, be dominion and glory, thanksgiving and praise, now and forever.

“Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord, from henceforth: Yes, says the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.”—Rev. 14:13.

John Bell.

Bromley, the 12th of the Ninth month, 1744.

1Thomas Trafford resided in Ireland. According to the testimony of Friends of the county of Wicklow, “he was convinced of the Truth about the year 1670, and soon after bore a faithful testimony for the Lord against that grand oppression of tithes; and because, for conscience' sake, he could not pay the same, he suffered imprisonment for two years. Soon after he came out of prison, the Lord committed to him a dispensation of the gospel, which he preached freely and faithfully in this nation, through which he often travelled, also several limes in some parts of England, etc. Several were convinced by his ministry, and Friends were often comforted by the sweetness of that life and power which attended it. He was also zealously concerned in discipline, being endued with a sound and clear understanding, very tender and encouraging to the good, and zealous against the appearance of evil. Towards the latter part of his life he suffered great bodily affliction; yet he bore it with patience, was preserved in a sweet frame of spirit, and continued very serviceable in his meeting unto his latter end. He died in the year 1703.”

Thomas Trafford appears to have borne a large share of the concern that rested on many Friends of Ireland in his day, that themselves and their fellow-professors might be preserved from that “spirit which leads into the lawful things of the world, beyond the bounds of Truth.” (See a weighty Epistle on that subject, with a Preface and Postscript thereto, in Rutty's History of Friends in Ireland.)

2That the fulfilment of this prediction soon followed, is a well-known historical fact: the following summary account of it furnishes occasion for contemplating, with reverent admiration, the sufficiency of that divine Arm, whereby Friends who kept faithful to their testimony against wars and fightings, were preserved; and enabled, under peculiarly adverse circumstances to continue in the performance of their civil and religious duties.

“The latter end of this year (1688) a war broke forth in this nation, threatening a general over throw of all the English and Protestants; and in that frightful time, many of these left their dwellings, stocks and flocks, and fled, some to England and some to arms. But Friends generally kept their places, and kept up their meetings, and trusted the Lord with their lives and substance, that rules all things in heaven and earth, and bounds the sea and the raging waves thereof; though under great perils of various sorts, by reason of multitudes of wicked, unmerciful, blood-thirsty men, banded together. And Friends in some places, became great succourers to some of the distressed English, that had their houses burnt; and were themselves driven out of their places, being stripped of their substance: and a remarkable thing, never to be forgotten, was, that they that were in government then, seemed to favour us, and endeavour to preserve Friends. But notwithstanding all endeavours used, Friends sustained great losses, and went through many perils, by the outrageous rabble and plunderers of the country, besides the hardships of the army: so that many lost most of their visible substance, and some were stripped naked, and their houses and dwellings were set on fire over their heads, and burnt to the ground; and their lives were in such danger, that it seemed almost impossible that they should be preserved; yet, in the midst of such lamentable exercises, the Lord's eminent hand of deliverance wonderfully appeared to their great admiration and comfort.”—Rutty''s History of Friends in Ireland.

It is also well known, that the safety of conforming to the peaceable spirit of the Gospel, was in like manner manifested in the case of Friends during the Irish Rebellion, in the year 1798.

3Peter Fearon resided at Seaton, in Cumberland. He was educated in the way of the church of England (so called.) During' his apprenticeship, he was convinced of the Truth as professed by Friends; and continuing faithful, he became concerned to bear a public testimony to the virtue and excellency of it. He travelled in the service of the Gospel in most parts of England, as well as in Holland and parts of Germany (as above), and visited Friends in Scotland and Ireland several times. He was an able minister, sound in doctrine, convincing to gainsayers, confirming and edifying to the churches; very serviceable in meetings for discipline, and zealously concerned therein for promoting good order, being particularly gifted for that excellent work. He died in the year 1734, aged 83, having been a minister about 54 years.—(See Piety Promoted, Part vii.)

4* John Tiffin, who resided at Mockeskin, near Pardshaw in Cumberland, travelled at various times in the work of the ministry. In the year 1654 he went to Ireland. At that early period in the history of Friends, there were but very few of them in that nation; with these few, and in endeavouring to promote the further spreading of the Truth, John Tiffin spent five or six weeks. His ministry was at that time, in few words, but edifying and very serviceable. He attended the small meeting held in William Edmudson's house at Lurgan, (the first settled meeting of Friends in Ireland,) and travelled with him to several places: they had good service for Truth, although through great opposition. At Belfast, the inhabitants shut their ears, doors, and hearts against them; yet this did not hinder them from holding a meeting near that town, in the open air. They sat down, and kept their meeting in a place where three lanes met, and were a wonder to the people who came about them; and something was spoken to direct their minds to God's Spirit in their own hearts. These exercises, though in much weakness and fear, spread the name and fame of Truth; thereby many honest people were induced to inquire after it, the number of Friends increased in those parts, and some were added to the meeting at Lurgan. In the next year, John Tiffin, visited Ireland again, with James Lancaster. At a meeting held on the green at Lurgan, in the course of this visit, these Friends and William Edmundson met with much personal abuse.—See Rutty''s History.

In the year 1676, John Tiffin, accompanied John Burnyeat through Westmoreland and Yorkshire, to London; and in 1684, into the north of England and Scotland. See Whiting''s Memoirs. He also took a short journey with James Dickinson in 1695. See page 386 Friends' Library, Vol. 12. He died in the twelfth month 1700-1.

5“James Dickinson visited Robert Barclay when on his death-bed: as he sat by him the Lord's power and presence bowed their hearts together, and Robert Barclay was sweetly melted in the sense of God's love, and with tears expressed his love to all faithful brethren in England, who keep their integrity to the Truth; and added, 'Remember my love to Friends in Cumberland, and at Swarthmore, and to dear George,' meaning George Fox, 'and to all the faithful everywhere;' and further said, 'God is good still, and though I am under great weight of sickness and weakness as to my body, yet my peace flows; and this I know, whatever exercises may be permitted to come upon me, it shall tend to God's glory and my salvation; and in that I rest.' He died the 3rd of the eighth month, 1690.”—Piety Promoted, Part iii.

6Thomas Rudd resided at Wharfo, near Settle, in Yorkshire. He was convinced of the Truth as professed by Friends, in the early part of his life, and was soon afterwards called to the work of the ministry. In this vocation he became a faithful and diligent labourer, and travelled in many parts of England, Scotland, and Ireland. He was especially desirous that the camp of God might be kept clean; and that spiritual Israel might be beautiful, and in no wise stained with any of the vain customs, fashions, or corrupt spirit of the world. In his travels, he was often concerned to preach repentance and the fear of God in the streets and market-places of towns and cities, as well as other places of concourse. His service in this line often had a good effect; and he was, on certain occasions, favoured with remarkable proofs of the presence of that Hand of power which led him forth, sometimes to the convincing of gainsayers. For this his labour of love, he was many times imprisoned, sorely beaten and abused: all which he patiently endured, and like a faithful and valiant soldier, did not turn his back in the day of battle.

Near the close of his life, he rejoiced in having been made willing faithfully to perform these arduous services; and said, 'It is enough, it is enough that I feel inward peace. Although I have jeoparded my life many times, in answering what I believed the Lord required of me, it is all too little. O! what an excellent thing it is to be at peace with the Lord and all men.'—He died in the year 1719, in about the seventy-sixth year of his age.—See Piety Promoted, Part vi.

7See Friends' Library, Vol. 2, p. 336.

8Henry Payton resided at Dudley, in Worcestershire. His daughter, Catharine Phillips, in an account of him prefixed to her Journal says; “He was called into the work of the ministry about the eighteenth year of his age; and when young, travelled much in the service of Truth in several parts of this nation, Ireland and Scotland, as also the American colonies. His ministry was lively and clear; and his care not to exceed the openings of Truth therein, apparent. His deportment was grave, his conduct clean and steady, and his charity, in proportion to his circumstances, diffusive. He was an affectionate husband, a tender father and kind master; serviceable amongst his neighbours, and beloved and respected by them. He died in the year 1746, aged nearly 75 years.”

His sister, “Sarah Payton, was born at Dudley [aforesaid,] and received a gift in the ministry when about twenty-one years of age; in the exercise of which, she laboured not only at home and in Ireland, but also in America, previous to her marriage with Samuel Baker, an honest Friend of Dublin. She resided in that city for the most part of the remainder of her life; and was very serviceable to Truth and Friends in many respects; being a diligent labourer and fellow-helper with her brethren in the gospel: and in the authority of Christ Jesus did freely and frequently, in larger and lesser assemblies, preach and teach the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the redemption that is in his Son, Christ Jesus. She had also good service in women's meetings, being a diligent follower of good works, in relieving the poor and visiting the sick and afflicted in body or mind. When outward strength declined, her inward strength was renewed; her lamp being trimmed, did burn clearly, through the supply of heavenly oil, to the conclusion of her time; and at her departure she had the comfort of an evidence of peace with the Lord, and that a crown of righteousness was laid up for her. She died in the year 1713.”—Rutty's History of Friends in Ireland.

9A kind of Indian bread.

10“Thomas Wilkinson resided at Beckfoot, in Cumberland. He descended of honest parents, though not of our profession; who dying when he was young, he was educated by a relation in the way of the Church of England [so called.] He joined himself with Friends in his youth, and some time after received a gift in the ministry. In that service, when but young, he travelled through most parts of England and Wales; and several times visited Friends in Scotland and Ireland. His ministry was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in the demonstration of the Spirit and power; and he was endued with an excellent gift of prayer. As he bore a faithful testimony in word and doctrine, his conduct was agreeable thereto. He was also zealous in his testimony against tithes: for non-payment of a small modus, he was prosecuted in the Court of Exchequer, and suffered imprisonment sixteen years: which suffering he bore without murmuring; and often said, “He never enjoyed more of the Lord's favour than in his confinement.” In his last illness he frequently signified that nothing stood in his way, and that he had the full evidence of joy and peace. He died in the year 1731, aged upwards of 78, having been a minister about 50 year.” —Testimony of Cumberland Quarterly Meeting.

11Jonathan Burnyeat, son of John and Elizabeth, was born in Dublin on the 4th of the eleventh month, 1686;” consequently he was little more than twelve years of age, when he thus united with James Dickinson in gospel service. John Whiting in his “Memoirs,” towards the close of his account of John Burnyeat, says, “He left one son, a hopeful young man, behind him.” “Jonathan Burnyeat died at Graythwaite near Crabtreebeck [in Cumberland,] on the 5th of the third month, 1709,” in the twenty-third year of his age. These dates, etc., of his birth and decease, are copied from the registers of Pardshaw monthly meeting.

The editor regrets that he has not been able to find further particulars respecting this extraordinary youth: when his age is considered, in connection with what is here said of him by James Dickinson (see also p. 402) the reader can scarcely fail to be struck with so remarkable an instance of early dedication; or (while contemplating the condescension of the great Head of the church, in committing a dispensation of the gospel to one of so tender an age,) to regard it as an occasion which calls forth the reverent acknowledgment, “Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings You have perfected praise.”

12Samuel Bownas, who, (with his fellow-traveller in the work of the ministry, Isaac Thompson,) was in company with James Dickinson, and R. Lattimer at this time, makes the following mention of James Dickinson, and of this meeting at Dumfries:—“We went on with boldness and cheerfulness, meeting on the way with our dear and worthy friend, James Dickinson, who was intending a visit into Ireland. In our journey from the Border to Dumfries, we had very profitable conversation with him, of good service to us both; because we, by reason of youth, and lack of experience, were often very weak; and doubting whether we were right or not in the work: so that this dear Friend, by his tender and fatherly care and advice, was of great encouragement, in letting us know how weak and poor he often found himself; which so much answered my condition, that it was as marrow to my bones.”

“When we came to Dumfries, after we had taken some refreshment at our inn, James said to us, 'Lads, I find a concern to go into the street, will you go with me?' For he thought it might only be to show himself, and was desirous that we might go all together, being five in number. So we walked forth, and the inhabitants gazed upon us, for the Quakers were seldom seen in that town so many together: several came after us, and James lifted up his voice like a trumpet among the people, who were very quiet and attentive. When he was clear, we retired to our inn, and many followed us, who were very rude and wicked, but were not permitted to hurt us. We had sweet comfort and refreshment one in another at our quarters.” —Life of Samuel Bownas,

13“John Urwen was born at Parkrigg, in the north of Cumberland. He was educated in a sober, religious manner, and was favoured with the visitations of divine love in his early years, whereby he was engaged to seek the Lord, and to love him above all. About the twenty-eighth year of his age, he was called to the ministry. His testimony for some time was not large, but very edifying and acceptable: and as he kept in pure, humble dependence upon the Lord, he improved in his gift greatly, and, in due time became a truly evangelical minister. He was often in those small meetings of his own neighbourhood, powerfully engaged in the ministry; also in fervent supplication, in which he was favoured with near access to the Almighty. His services in the discipline were likewise weighty; for being a man of great natural abilities, and those sanctified, and made subservient to the Truth, he became singularly eminent in the church. He repeatedly visited Friends of this nation, Scotland and Ireland. In the latter part of his time, Divine Wisdom permitted him to be deeply tried in various respects: he went through evil report and good report: but the Lord was with him, enabling him to bear all with calmness and Christian fortitude, and to persevere faithfully many years after, both in the ministry and the discipline of the church. Some time before his departure he said, that nothing stood in his way; and that if he had his life to live over again, he did not well know how to do better. He died at Mosside, in Cumberland, in the year 1762, aged about 86, and a minister 58 years.”—Testimony of Carlisle monthly meeting.

14“William Dixon, resided at Waterend in Loweswater, Cumberland. He was descended of believing parents, and educated in the way of Truth. It pleased the Lord to visit him in his tender age, and he freely gave up to follow his leadings. About the twenty-first or twenty-second year of his age, he came forth in public testimony; and being faithful to the gift bestowed upon him, he grew and became very serviceable. He travelled pretty much in his early coming forth, into most of the adjacent counties, as also in some western counties. He was rather backward in appearance; but his doctrine was sound, and often dropped as the dew, and distilled as the rain on the tender plants; and he was very fervent in his approaches in prayer. He was of a weakly constitution, and about the thirty-sixth year of his age, fell into a decline. During his illness, among other sweet expressions he said, 'I am satisfied when this poor body goes to the dust, there is a place of rest prepared for my soul. Oh! it is good to make use of time. I rejoice that I die in unity with my friends, and that the Lord is now near me.' He died in the year 1734, and thirty-seventh of his age.” —Testimony of Cumberland Quarterly meeting.

Table of Contents

Chapter I.

Chapter II.

Chapter III.

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2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

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