grace, that their God may shield them from harm and be
their protector, that they may love and serve Him all their
days, and then dwell with Him in eternity.
Attended the funeral of John West, of Mount Holly.
Company was large and meeting solemn ; they were exhorted
to occupy time and talents rightly in order to be ready to
meet the close. To the faithful steward death has no ter-
rors, but is a messenger of release from all conflicts. There
is so much of the elementary in our composition we often
toil and row against wind and tide, seeming to forget that
the power that formed them is above all, and His word can
settle the most turbulent passions into a calm.
lL ; JOl'K N A L OF
1848. Seventh ruonth 4th. ā A most lovely morning,
with the atmosphere pure from the showers of yesterday.
What beauty is exhibited in the order of creation ! ā light
and shade, sunshine and shower, bu1 we have n<> power to
command either. All my life my first desire has been to do
right, to live in peace, to offend none, to he approved of God
and all good people; to do all I could to alleviate suffering
and to try not to hurt the feelings of any; to maintain
an equanimity of temper and keep a clear conscience, but
I often fail in many point.-. To be ready to meet the sum-
mons home without alarm, to pass calmly from works to
rewards, and stand before my Judge as one whose talent
has been used, are things ever in my thoughts, and to attain
to them I must attend to duties as they present, not putting
them by for trifles, for in that awful moment excuses will
avail nothing. Life's realities are solemn, and every day
has its work. Christian virtues shine evervwhere, and
operate to endear human beings one to another. A gift
in the ministry is a solemn trust; may all to whom it is
given dwell with it, and speak only as moved by it. Then
as branches of the true vine they would expand and grow-
stronger and stronger, and their labors would be effectual
in bringing souls to Christ.
21st. ā Myself and husband went to Wilmington. Were
kindly welcomed by Eli and Martha Hilles, where we
lodged. Attended meeting, and felt to direct the people to
the great minister of ministers, with them and in them. In
the afternoon went on toward Western Quarter. The
meeting of ministers and elders was a satisfactory oppor-
tunity, and in the general meeting we were blessed with the
presence of the Good Shepherd. Returned home, and feel
glad once more to rest in the quiet.
SARAH H U X T . 43
Tenth month 10th.ā Went to Darbv and attended
meeting there ; a comfortable feeling prevailed, and good
counsel was given in the meeting for ministers and elders.
The general meeting was large and satisfactory. Next day
we had the company of several friends from a distance, and
were glad to see them. I enjoy social mingling when con-
versation turns on worthy subjects, and there is no speaking
evil of persons.
14th. ā I feel the need of dwelling in the house of prayer
to gather strength to meet trials and fulfill duties.
17th. ā A number of friends with us, which is a privi-
lege highly valued. These communings are precious, when
we can speak freely of subjects of general interest, and sug-
gest modes of improvement that would tend to eleva'e the
human family at large, and open avenues of instruction
for those who seem deprived of almost everything that is
desirable or improving.
Twelfth month 9th. ā Went to Maryland. Dined at
Thornton Walton's, and then went to Benjamin Ferris'
and lodged. A number of friends had come to attend the
Quarterly Meeting, which was large and favored. The
subject was the inspiration of the Scriptures, with the series
of events recorded to establish the truths contained in them,
that we need not question what seems obscure, but leave it
till opened to our understanding, which it would be if need-
ful to our growth in grace, redemption from sin, or fulfil-
ment of the duties we are called to. God is mindful of His
creatures in all ages of the world, and will not fail on His
part if Ave are willing to do ours. "Neither grace nor
glory, nor any good thing, will He withhold from such as
walk uprightly."
44 JOURNAL O l
To speak clearly what is given at the time, no more
nor less, should be the watchful oare of all who minister.
Though it lie plain and ever so simple, it will have its place
and effect. "My Word," saith the Almighty by His
Prophet, " which goeth out of my mouth, shall not return
unto me void, but shall accomplish that which I please, and
prosper in the thing whereto I sent it." This Word of the
Divine life, which comes through the anointing, is indeed
precious; it meets the states of the people; it conn- as a
warning to the wayward and disobedient, who determine
in their hearts to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season.
It says in the midst of their revelings: "Touch not, taste
not, handle not the accursed thing ; for the sting of death-
is in it," while it comforts the mourner whose tears are shed
in secret by the sweet assurance, " They shall be turned
into wine, new in the kingdom of Heaven." It assures
such as meekly lay down the life of self on the altar of
obedience that they shall take it again in the life that is
hid with Christ in God.
All this ministration is often immediately impressed
upon individuals by the Word "nigh in the heart;' by
the Lord from Heaven ; " a quickening spirit," making
known the will of God by the visitations of His love. Then
instruments are employed to call the attention to these eman-
ations and calls, lest they be disregarded and pa>scd by
unheeded. Oh how solemn, how weighty, how responsible,
is the charge committed to an ambassador for Christ ! AVhat
need of constant watch lest they mar the work by self-
activity! To leave disputed points of doctrine that have
rent and shattered the Christian Church almost from its
rise down to the present time, letting each mind settle these
for itself according to the light given, without controversy;
SARAH HUNT. 45
giving strict attention to the law written in the heart and
printed in the thoughts, by which the will of God is known.
16th. ā Feel very little like participating in anything of
a worldly nature any further than real duties require.
17th. ā Weather fine for the season ; our meeting large
and satisfactory ; my children in a distant land are afflicted.
I pray for them, and for myself, that we maybe able to bear
all without complaining ; that our trials may refine and fit
for a higher sphere.
25th. ā It rained all day. There was grandeur and
beauty in the storm, and vegetation drank in the drops as
they fell, presenting the freshness and beauty of spring,
mingled with winter's blast. But the day before icicles cov-
ered the trees and glistened like emeralds ; now they are
gone, to be seen no more. Such is our brief existence; we
vanish and give place to a new race.
29th. ā We had friends with us from New York and
Baltimore, and the conversation turned on religious sub-
jects, which is always pleasant to me when a right spirit
prevails. In exchanging views we may edify one another.
By imparting experience in the things of God, we may excite
a devotional feeling in others and not drain our own
treasury. I desire to feed on hidden manna, to commune
with Angels, to abide in Christ, the true vine, and rest
always under the outspread wing of my Father in Heaven,
acquiescing in His will, and doing it so far as I am able.
May nothing ever pluck me out of His hand.
First month 1st, 1849. ā The opening of the year is
lovely ; bright sunshine ; ground covered with snow, pure
and white, beautiful to look upon ; attended a funeral. A
solemn season, reminding us all that this is not our rest;
that we ought ever to be vigilant to " make our calling
and election sure."
4<> JO UK X A I, OF
20th. Went to the city to meet the Indian Com-
mittee; visited several sick people, and met many I dearly
love. Appointed to inert a committee in New York. We
took carriage and went to Bordentown, from there to Tren-
ton, and over the river to Samuel Comfort's. From here
we teok the ears ; attended Quarterly Meeting and the com-
mittee ; all passed satisfactorily. Many young people were
collected ; may the God of all grace be with them, and
keep them from the evils that are in the world ; show
them the beauty of holiness and the emptiness of the vani-
ties of this world.
26th. ā A large public meeting was held. My good
Master did not fail to furnish all that was needful to meet
the states of the people. His mercies are new every morn-
ing, and He delights to bless His children. I was com-
forted in meeting so many dear friends, and in the evi-
dence that time and distance had not had power to lessen the
atlectionate regard we had for each other. We dined at
John I). Wright's with a number of Friends, then left for
Trenton. Went to Thomas Sterling's.
27th. ā Came home ; found all well. I am grateful for
the many favors received. May I be preserved in future
from distrusting my Heavenly Leader. He is truly the
beloved of my soul ; the ehiefest among ten thousand, and
altogether lovely.
Second month 4th. ā A few days since I felt drawn to
attend a meeting a few mile- distant. The time seemed as
clear as the act itself, but there was an unusual impression
accompanying it. I knew it was the Master's voice, but
hindrances operated to prevent, and I had to suffer. In-
deed I seemed shut out from all sense of good ; I rebelled
against the light, and I was left in darkness. I felt the loss
SARAH HUNT. 47
was not to myself only, but I had deprived others of what
was designed for them, and it seemed like trifling with
OmnijDotence. As it was not a wilful act of disobedience, I
hope I may be forgiven. What a blessing is this monitor
within. May I ever attend to it and prize it as God's
crowning gift. " My sheep," said the blessed Jesus, " hear
my voice, I know them, and they follow Me, and the voice of
a stranger they will not follow."
15th. ā Went to meeting ; sat through in sweet silence.
I love internal communion with the God of my life. He
is my strength and my portion forever.
16th. ā We were gratified by the arrival of our friends
Amos Willets and wife from New York, and Rachel Hicks
from Westbury. On the 17th made some visits with them,
and on the 18th attended our First-day meeting. Rachel
labored in gospel love to draw the minds of the people to
Christ in them, the only hoj:>e of glory. I hope impressions
for good were fixed in some minds at least, that some were
awakened, and some encouraged. No doubt she had the
promised reward. It is a low time with me ; I hope to be
patient, as willing to be abased as to abound. So that my
Lord be honored, I am satisfied.
19th. ā This morning our friends left us. May the pres-
ence of the Head of the church go with them, and be their
strength and support, and renew upon them His holy
anointing for every service.
26th. ā Spring is near. Gladly Ave greet the changing
seasons ; each has its charms.
Third month 1st. ā This is the tenth day I have been in
my chamber, under great bodily suffering, reminding me of
my frailty, and that dissolution may come at any moment.
But though the thought is solemn there is no fear, ā I am
48 JOUR N A L F
always in the presence of my Judge, and having all my life
desired to do the best I could, with a sense of shortcomings,
I will hope for acceptance through the mercy of Christ my
Redeemer.
It seems to me impossible for any who have known the
regenerating power of (iod's grace to lightly esteem the
outward advent, or undervalue the holy example of Jesus
of Nazareth. His patience under suffering as shown in
His forbearance when reviled by wicked men, His prayer
to the Father for His persecutors when the agonies of
death were upon Him, ā oh that I could be like Him !
2d. ā How full of blessings is the storehouse of the
Father of mercies ; may none fail of inheriting their portion
through unbelief or disobedience. He bestows his gifts
upon all men, and calls for their occupation.
The last week has been dull and stormy, the sun has
appeared but once or twice, and then soon hid as under a
veil. How emblematic of the mind and its workings !
10th. ā Trials will and do come. Try our best we
cannot escape them. Lord, strengthen me to endure. I
long to be redeemed from the world, but so long as we are
in it we must feel its influences. Oh that mankind would
seek the one universal good, then peace and harmony would
abound in families, in societies, in neighborhoods, and in
the world.
Third month loth. ā Was held the Quarterly Meeting
of ministers and elders. Several Friends from a distance
were with us, and we w T ere edified and instructed. The
general meeting was large and satisfactory. I trust the
good was strengthened in the minds of the people, and
Christ exalted.
SARAH HUNT. 49
17th. ā This morning seems like spring ; the feathered
choir come round with their minstrels ; two beautiful birds
on one bough praise God in their way. From thinking
beings these anthems rise from the heart, and ought to be
in full accord with the Divine harmony. My heart responds
to the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of
the Lamb, " Great and marvelous are Thy works, Lord God
Almighty ; just and true are all Thy ways, Thou King of
saints."
18th. ā Attended meeting, felt how weak and poor I am,
but remembered I am a child of God, who numbers the
hairs of our heads, and without whose notice not a sparrow
falls to the ground. And now closes one of the happiest
winters of my life. I have had the society of my husband
and my two daughters almost constantly, devoted to my
comfort. The children happy in each other, satisfied with
the rules of the house, never complain, and are happy in
doing their part to contribute to the happiness of all.
One daughter will soon leave us, and assume the respon-
sible position of wife and head of a family. May she be
happy in her choice, and look well to the ways of her house-
hold, seeking for the wisdom from above to direct her
course. From very early life my faith has been tested in
what some call little things ; things others indulge in with
apparent satisfaction I have had to resign. Such as the
simple use of "thee" and "thou" to all persons, a plain
costume suited to comfort without ornament, to salute all
persons -by their given names, and to give up music, of
which I was exceedingly fond. I suppose the design is to
subdue the strong will and discipline the mind to the
restraints of the cross of Christ.
50 JOU R N A L <Ā»F
Fourth month 1st. ā Attended meeting; had friend*
with us in the afternoon ; the time passed in social min-
gling, and I trust all felt it was not misspent or misused,
but something gained, at least good feelings strengthened.
2d. ā Went to Burlington Monthly meeting, and after
it to a large social gathering at a Friend's house. The
subjects dwelt upon were the goodness of God to His chil-
dren in all ages, the sufficiency of His grace, and what
it would effect for mankind if all were guided and actuated
by it.
4th. ā Had friends with us from the city, a young
woman and her father. Their company was charming ;
how j^leasant for parents and children to harmonize and
mingle socially and religiously. It brings with it the "oil of
gladness." Such has always been the order of my family,
nor did my children eyer incline to draw off and separate
by themselyes when their friends were with them. I do
not think they eyer felt me in their way.
loth. ā My heart is lifted up to God, that He may pre-
sence and keep me, grant me grace to do His will in life,
and receive my soul when this mortal coil is laid in the
graye.
14th. ā Peaceful and calm.
17th. ā My heart lifts the incense of praise to the Most
High.
A visit to Genesee has been accomplished to our own
great satisfaction. We fulfilled all we had in prospect,
returned in safety, found all well, and rendered thanks to
the great Helper who was with us and magnified His
name among the people. Public meetings were crowded,
especially on First-days. Many could not get into the
house, and stood outside ; yet the attention was profound
S A It A II HUN 1 . 51
hardly a move for two hours. The gospel was preached
in its own blessed authority, and met a response rarely
witnessed in the hearts of a mixed but listening audience.
May it fasten as a nail in a sure place driven by the
Master of assemblies. The sittings of the Yearly Meeting
were favored, and the feeling in conclusion was one of
gratitude for blessings dispensed.
Fourth day. ā We were at Macedon, where the people
were invited to Christ in them, the hope of glory, a Saviour
always with them.
23d. ā The Lord on high is mightier than the noise of
many waters. He is now speaking to the nations by fam-
ine, by pestilence, and the sword. May they hear and
understand, and turn to Him with the whole heart ; then will
He remove the scourge, and scatter blessings instead. Most
of the miseries that afflict mankind come through their own
misdoings, the greatest calamities from unhallowed desires.
Seventh month 28th. ā My only child now with me lies
very ill ; can I part with her ? I must resign her into the
hands of a merciful God, and accept what He metes as best.
Eighth month 5th. ā After ten days' extreme suffering
my dear Matilda is no more. She made a peaceful close
and is now at rest ; but alas for me, I am lonely indeed !
May my deep afflictions redeem me from this world, and
fit me for the next. If our happiness depended on outward
circumstances we should be miserable, but thanks be to
God, resignation to His will brings tranquillity and peace.
loth. ā Our dear friends Dr. Nathan Shoemaker and
wife came out from the city to see us. Their visit was com-
forting ; they had been afflicted, and could sympathize with
me in my great bereavement.
o2 JOURNAL OF
17th. ā I am sitting alone in my dear Matilda's room;
it seems a sanctuary of sweetness ; recollections of her kind
attentions come in with every thought. H<>\v shall I do
without her in my feeble state of health ? God only knows.
On Him I must lean. May He send streams from the river
of life, bringing healing virtue in them.
Ninth month 2d. ā Have been walking in the yard view-
ing the flowers, but my thoughts are resting on the unseen,
and turn instantly away from the beauties of nature to
things beyond the veil.
4th. ā Several friends came in on a social visit. It is
kind in them to remember us, and cheering to mingle with
kindred spirits, that can participate in our joys and sor-
rows, more in feeling than in expression.
Ninth month 9th. ā Attended a meeting appointed for
me in Haddonfield. The subject presented was : " None of
them can, by any means, redeem his brother, nor give to
God a ransom for him." All are free agents ; all have the
gift of grace, sufficient to guide them in the way of life and
salvation, and will be left without excuse when inquisition
is made, if not found among the elect of God's right hand.
Ninth month 12th. ā Our Quarterly Meeting held at
Evesham. Henry Kidgway was with us. Had acceptable
service; my husband and myself have been out nine days ā¢
had fourteen meetings. They were all well attended and
blessed with a precious solemnity. It is wise to weigh all
things well ; consider what will be the results of plans and
projects if carried out in action. It is a kind of safeguard,
and may prevent improprieties in movements that bring
sorrow. I am very fond of natural curiosities, the product
of sea or land. A friend in Nantucket sent me a nice col-
lection of shells, which 1 value highly.
S A RAH HUNT. 53
Tenth month. ā Nine months of this year already gone.
Many and varied have been my trials and duties ; solemn
have been scenes and feelings, deep mourning and lowli-
ness. Just two months to-day since the death of my
daughter. I sit in her room in sadness, but a heavenly
sweetness seems to pervade all, which calms my agitated
feelings. I am often led to testify to others the sufficiency
of the grace of God. A precious visit from dear friends
in the city ā a visit that was comforting and interesting.
They were of the little flock of cross-bearers, alive in
Christ, and such are my brethren and sisters. A very severe
gale, demolishing buildings, wrecking ships, and doing much
damage in many places. Oh what force there is in the
elements ! In our meeting the subject that opened was the
pure river, spoken of in Revelation. The tree of life grew
on either side, and always had fruit on it. There was a
variety, but it was all good, and even the leaves had heal-
ing virtue in them. This was emblematical of the love of
God that flows toward all men everywhere, and carries a
blessing to all who receive it.
22d. ā On awakening this morning I approached my
Maker in prayer. Before the day was over, I needed the
help asked for, for trials did come. Prayer is the Chris-
tian's armor, his buckler and shield, his source of strength
in the greatest emergencies.
Fourth month 1st. ā My mind to-day is in a tossed state,
like the sea of Galilee when it was tempestuous. The disci-
ples were sailing upon it. May the power that settled the
waves for them appear for my relief, and speak the word
once more that establishes peace. May my whole life be
consecrated to God ; spent in His service ; living in His
fear, and in meek submission to His will. It is the meek
54 JOURNAL O P
He teaches of His ways, the meek He guides in the paths of
true judgment.
6th. ā My powers are quite exhausted ; I retire to my
chamber to gather strength in the quiet; read several chap-
ters in Ephesians, and felt comforted. The sun has just
set, closing the year 1849. It has been an eventful period
in my life; solemn separations from those dear to me, and
strong ties severed. Had the veil that concealed the future
been lifted at the beginning, how would the heart have
recoiled at the view, and desired that "this cup might pass
from me," but in great wisdom we know only what comes
with each day as it passes over our heads.
I remember this year commenced in a prayerful spirit
and I feel that I have abundant cause to give thanks in the
conclusion that strength has been given to bear the trials
dispensed with a good degree of composure, to number
blessings and hope for mercies to be continued. O Thou
who dwellest in the heavens, Thou knowest my heart is
almost continually lifted up to Thee, wherever I am, and
howsoever I am surrounded, petitions ascend, praise is
offered ! Oh that the devotion of one so unworthy may be
accepted by Thee! I do acknowledge that all I have, and
all I am, is Thine, and the first and last of my requests is
that I may live in Thy glory, and, when I die, dwell with
Thee forever. Yet a little while, and my joys and sorrows
will all be forgotten, and X shall sleep with the generations
that sleep the sleep of death. To be ready for this last and
solemn change, is my most earnest solicitude always. Very
seldom is my attention so much enlisted in anything as to
forget that I am born to die, and after death to come to
judgment.
SARAH HUNT. 55
First month 1st, 1850. ā This has been a very pleasant
day, spent quietly and peacefully at home, busily occupied
in domestic duties, which, when rightly pursued, do not
prevent from dwelling upon things higher in their nature.
We may be diligent in business, and at the same time
" fervent in spirit, serving the Lord."
10th. ā During the night the storm ended, and the sun
rose in unusual beauty and splendor ; and yet I suppose
the rays were faint compared with that day where clouds
are not known, and where fogs and vapors rise not. To-
day was our Monthly Meeting, and I obtained a minute
with the general unity of Friends to attend the Western
Quarter, and perform such other service as may open at
the time. I feel very unfit to be called abroad to instruct
others, or to be an instrument of good to any, but I know
human w T isdom is not called into requisition in these things,
and He whose work it is " will send by whom He will send,
and save by many or by few." He makes use of the weak
things of this world that the power and glory may be His.
12th. ā The morning opened with bright sunshine, a
pleasant winter's day. My mind, however, dwells under a
sense of great weakness.
13th, First-day.ā Attended meeting, and felt the savor
of life ; with little ability to communicate to the assembly.