Dear All I take my pen up but fear my eyes
will not permit me to write much as they feel
very weak tonight Joseph is sitting near me asleep
he has been trying to read and succeeded
quite well until just now he has yielded
he has been very busy husking cand carting
stalks today and is very tired I would
like him to go to bed if I should not feel
to [sic] much alone waiting for the children
who have gone to Roslyn to hear Curtis and
it will probably be late They have the large
tent put up in front of Benjn Hicks and great
efforts tomake the meeting atrractive in ad
-dition to the spaking music banners
and floral ^&^ evergreen decorations are very
abundent principly got up by our
young people the meeting both after no^on^
and evening Curtis has spoke every even^ing^
this week I wish he might be elected
I have not read Phillips speech in
Boston only the editorial I have felt as
all have a dersire to know how he stood
(Page 2)
and it appear he does not satisfy his friends
entirely yet in the little sketch of his NY
speech at the close it was stated that the
audience were better satisfied than at
the beginning I am so sorry that there
should be any similarity even in their
opposition to Lincoln between him and
the copperheads and I felt rather unwil
ling just at this eventful period to say
any thing to cool the patriotism of any
as it seems if we judge between the two
as the safest wisest and only course that
is left to pursue The recent discovery of
the frauds and the magnitude of them
is truly alarming and reveals so muc^h^
that is wicked mean & comtemptable as all
the party that has fallen so low as to do
this thing is unworthy to govern a free
people and I most earnestly hope
they will be foiled in all their mach
-inations and that they may utterly
perish We went to Q[uarterly] M[eeting] at Flushing ret
-urned last eve in a great blow rode
in some fear lest branches or trees
might be broken but we got home safely
(Page 3)
The meeting was large and I thought an
interesting one John Parish was very excellent
several others of less note H W Ridgeway is
to be in NY tomorrow were disappointed in
not having him at the QM Cousin Gilbert
seemed very bright and smart Sam[ue]l Bowne
& Elizabeth Mary & Rebecca Titus are all on
from Maryland Cousin Amos has gone
as you have probably heard his remains
were interred at Westbury Cousin Jane ^Willets^ too
both after the M[onthly] meetings and of each
words of eulogy and parise I am out
of conceit of eulogy at funerals let
the remembrance of good deeds and
a pure life be a sufficient record in
the hearts of the life that has passed
First day It is almost dark but will add a
word have had company who have gone have
read some portions of Phillips speech and I find
there is great truth and force in his argume^nts^
but cannot speak of it as a whole until it
is read would like to hear what you think
of it—The meetings yesteday were very
satisfactory and I think friends are more
interested than usual in politics I suppose
that is natural Phebe W Titus our old neighbor
has talked very earnestly to J[oseph] to convince him
of the duty of giving a vote and I think all
(Page 4)
who can consciously do it should at
this time and continue to urge the gov
erment up to a higher policy in our
old fashioned way Phillips thinks he
is doing so now and it seems very
much like it It has been a beautiful
day but now some dark clouds are in
the west whether it is cold or storm they
portend Some people were injured by the
blowing down of a tree as they were riding
a little west of us We have only sun
Isaac & Mary F at meeting since their
return James & Elizabeth were at meeting
today were going there E says she enjoyed
being at Mamaroneck very much visited
Ann and other of their friends We have
been to E Willis cousin Mary seemed very
comfortable but of course feels her loss
deeply Rachel has got home has not
got quite through her visit a few
places besides Shrewsbury ____
Edward Willets & wife are in Paris they
are going around seeing the sights
some but his father hopes they will
return before long as there seems
no prospect of his being much better
there than he was here It seems
that his determination to get better
keeps him up It has got so dark
I cannot see much will invite
Joseph and Willie to add a slip
this evening I am getting more and
more delinquent so dont wait for us but
write when you can love to all
(Page 4)
Willie goes to schoole [sic] steadily
and helps milk and carts wood ___
strongly ^or any thingwe call on him to do and we call him a good
boy, and he seems to enjoy himself
as far as I can see very well
he appears to learn easily but I
think if he would not set ^depend on^ his
own judgment quite so much
it would be rather better for
his getting [sic] on with his studies
(Page 5)
2nd day morning Bright and
pleasant it is a little cool but
thinkgs which were not injured by
the early frost look fresh and grow
-ing Kate Post goes this morning to
Willets Point for a week or two
we were in company with Charles
Buntings wife & daughter and so forcely
it showed the truth that from the abun
-dance of the heart the mouth speakes
for they could scarcely talk of matters
foreign to the hospital and its sick &
wounded inmates This terrible war
has developed the goodness and smp
-athy of multidues who would but
for this passed along quietly For every
thing which blesses the suffering let us
be animated to do likewise in our _____
____ Love to all most affectionatly Mary
[Mary Post Robbins]
Wendell Phillips
Quakers and voting
Westbury 10th m 16th 1863
Dear Brother
This morning some rainy for the
first time in several weeks, it has been very
dry and quit [sic] cold some frost several times. It has
been rather a dry summer with us ponds and wells
quit [sic] low, yet I think it may be called a pretty
seasonable summer. We are gathering corn half
done not as much as some times not having as much
gound [sic]. help is very scarce almost impossible to find
a person by the day. The produce of the farm is selling
well generaly [sic]. hay from 8 to 11 shilling per cut corn
1$ per bushel oats 70 to 90 cts d[itt]o wheat the lowest 10 to 12 shillings
shorts 1.60 to 1.70 cts per cut so it is pretty hard time for us to
raise milk as that is not much higher than common
if we had not engaged it last spring for the year we could
now get more for it. I was at New York yesterday I
perseaved [sic] the general feeling of the people seemed of
a speculative character an excitement that I think
is not profitable eather [sic] spiritually or morally. Wile [sic]
in at Willets a man came in he and Daniel had consid
considerable talk about oil. R. told me he was a
(Page 2)
partner of Wm Bruff in the oil speculations and that
David A Burtice were also in the same business that
they had bought largely but he thought the prospect
of their makeing [sic] money by it looked dull. I made
a remark did they ^not^ get enough of it last winter he say it
seems not. I asked him R. if Isaac and Jacob was consearned [sic] with
Bruff he though [sic] not. I am in hopes you will keep clear
of all speculation where the thing has to be done
through other parties commission for buying also for sell
-ing storage leekage [sic] and any number additional expences [sic]
and also to look to Bruff or you will get drawn in were [sic]
it will be hard to get clear, were [sic] persons are in a buis
-ness that will afford a comfortable living it is unwise
to lanch [sic] into uncert^ent^ty [sic]. Lucretia Mott was in New York on
4 day at meeting had much to say mostly to the children her
daughter ^[Lard?]^ has removed their [sic]. We saw James at [con?] [Neck?]
about 2 weeks ago he said L. was very feeble and looked
thin suffers much. Cousin L Mott pretty well
mind bright then 90 years old. his son Leonard very
feeble gets ^out^ but little. Edmund Willets has been on
a visit in Pensylvania [sic] I suppose I might ^say^ a religious
visit but as he is not reccommended [sic] it is not common
to add the religious. he has the advantage in some re
pects he can go when he feels drawn but has some
(Page 3)
disadvantage as it takes longer time if he attends
many meetings he says he got along very well I think
the people generally like him except some of the
law and order ones. sometimes it looks like improvement
among us and at other times all looks dark
20th of the month this has take untill [sic] this time
yesterday work at Roslyn Today with Mary and
Elizabeth P Willets have been most of the day
at Joshuas dividing things that were Sarah
Downing she left a Will but not legally singed [sic]
but Silas it seems disposed to carry out her
views. Joshua and Henry Titus went up their [sic]
last week and got over 5000$ money and her
cloths linen some beds and ^a little^ furniture we divided
them in 4 parts. Joshua and sisters Jane [Vatmes?]
children Uncle John and Richards family and
after dividing them in 4 parts we divided one
parcel again in 4 parts so their bundls [sic] wer [sic]
not very large, and Sarah Cromwells portion
to be divided in 10 parts will be very small
to Samuel Post she gave the desk and Book
case. also the use of 1000$ during life and
to his children and Silas gave up a note
(Page 4)
that he held against Samuel ^for 250$^ dated 22 years
ago and and [sic] no interest every been [endosed?]
Now is the time for the examination of
those that have been drafted to go to Jamacia [sic]
have been going nearly all last month and
continues all this month I beleave [sic] very
many get clear for very trifling causes. Wm
Townsend Hannak son was one had the money
in his pocket as he was going to be examined
he said he did not know as he had any excuse
but came out with heart deseas [sic] and was
cleared many get clear because not natural
-ize Our Thomas Hughes was one drafted
he is notified to go 28th of the month he
expects to get clear on account of [illegible word crossed out]
not being naturalize. Labours is very scarce
on account of so many having gone and now
going to the war. quite a number of the
coulerd [sic] men have enlisted and go to [Read?]
Island from these parts. Tomorrow is the
orthodox Quarterly Meeting at Westbury they
make quite a time of fixing. Next day is ours
at [Flushing?] but weather [sic] it will be much
time will make manifest. do not look for much
Joseph Post
Lucretia (1793-1880) and James (1788-1868) Mott were well-known Philadelphia Quakers. Both were leaders of the abolition and women’s rights movements.
8 mo 23/63
Dearly Beloved
On the receipt of your truly
acceptable letter I felt just like answering it im
-mediately and should have done so had not my duty
to a sick and suffering sister come in the way
(Sally Ann Bond who was yesterday released from
her great suffering cancer and dropsy) I wanted
to prepare things for her and then to go there and
the next day I accompanied J who was at work
getting hay at Roslin [sic] to see Sarah Mott found
her pretty comfortable but been very poorly since
you were there had quite a pleasant visit and
was glad if I had contributed to her happiness
Then to James Motts Elizabeth at home and well
but I thought not feeling quite as cheerful
as sometimes I took all your letters received
since your return and read to her and we
recounted all the pleasant memories of your
visit she said it was unusually pleasant to
her and I tried to urge the necessity for
her happiness to mingle more with her friends
and neighbors Miss Crapon was there spending
(Page 2)
a few days and E said she was sorry to let her go alone
making calls but (she excused herself from going with her)
but really she felt but little inclination she has staid [sic]
at home so much that it is irksome to exert herself suff
-icently I told her I knew well the feeling but almost alw
ays I felt the better for going and mingling with my
neighbors and even that very afternoon I almost regretted
having spoken about going She was supprised [sic] to hear I ever
felt so I do not think she feels much better reconciled to
her present home than at first says it has increased
their cares and she would gladly lessen them and
live in a very small way James was at Great Neck moving
a building but I did not think of making so long a story
out of my reason for not replying immediately and when
the right time passes over we may not see the necessity as
much then M[onthly] M[eeting] at Matinecock and Jericho both of which we
attended at [ours?] R H was exercised on ac[coun]t of the growing sentime
-nt among friends of doubting & reasoning on parts of the scriptures
the miracles and other parts incomprehensible to us the Jewish
law was adapted to the state of the people at that time and
even now we saw ample illustration that there were those
who could only be controled [sic] by the force system that God was
able now to raise the dead &c &c that we had even considered
them as secondary quoting Barclay who she believed was a
standard work on all except original sin & the atonement
our part of society could not acknowledge she was quite leng
thy and it seemed to me she labored for very little profit
seldom has it seemed so clear the desired object was not
attained after all her exercise soon after she took her
seat Stimonson rose spoke of Jesus of his life of obedience
to all the requirements of his day that he often said it
(Page 3)
was often said by those of old times thus and so quoting
but I say onto you lose your enemies &c &c he imposed no
burdens on his followers but that they should come into the
childlike teachable state of obedience to the will of their heave
-nly father that it was not well to look back but to press forward
Edmund followed in quite a hopeful strain that he had felt
encouraged in meeting so large a number and so many young
people spoke of the evils wh[ich] were laying waste the community
intemperance & other evils abounded and we ought to be
[alive?] and in earnest to maintain a faithful testimony against
evil in all its many ramifications that we might leave the
world better for having lived in it &c went to Henry Titus to
dine 18 of us accepted of their hospitality at Jericho the meeting
was small our girls said there were only 9 females of that [P?] Meeting
and fewer from the other meetings I looked back to the time when Amy
and I were girls and how different then from the present [Ardon?]
spoke and we thought very well but he told us an elder told him
he was all wrong that day Mother not as well as usual I spent
the afternoon with her J and girls went to Henrys Today Rachel
spoke well as she has generally done lately shorter and in
a way to encourage obedience to duty Dorinda and children
are here they have gone to Uncle Jamess since tea and I am
the only occupant of home It is sadning [sic] to me to have the
dear children so misled as I think they are coming up in
all the formal observance of days [at home?] Minnie said
this afternoon why it dose [sic] not seem much like Sunday here
it seems most like other days I asked her what they done at
home why we go to church and then we sit down and mother
reads the bible to us – We had had reading but it had not
been the bible It reminded me of H C W joyless Sundays I
have known a long time she would not allow them to play
how different all would have been if their father had lived
The orthodox are zealous in their first day school and they
have a bible class meet at each others house weekly
met once at Phebe Titus Edward Rushmore is very much
interested in them and the school also Edward Hicks went
to P Titus but was not all suited told Phebe he should have
been much better satisfied had he remained at home [and?] enga
-ged in silent prayer so you see we are still earnest
some in one way and some in another we are trying
a little to get signatures to the womens petition but succeed
poorly some say slavery is virtually abolished some say congress
has no power some want to keep clear of all intermedling [sic]
that the subject is gaining and we have signed petition [so?]
(Page 4)
but what has it amounted to Fifth day here this is yet
scarcely a minutes time have I had since first day
we have had company steadily since second day we
were out making calls and some acquaintance from Oyster
Bay came they were just gone and I had doned [sic] by visiting rig
for my working dress when we were delighted by a new
arrival W. & Mary Third day Stephen & family & Uncle James girl and
yesterday quite a company mostly of N Yorkers and strangers to you
I presume who will come to day is not known as yet Dorinda
and girls want to go to see M K Underhill this afternoon We hope
W and Mary will come back soon I tried to convince them we
had quite as much claim on them as any other family Mother
is failing and I am feeling for Hannah fearing too much will
come on her Mothers woman is away now her child is deceased
There have been many accidents but as my paper is nearly full
and I think likely Elizabeth has mentioned them Henry Havi
-land has just lost their two oldest children only one little one
left and Valentine Seaman their youngest cousin P Haviland
is in a critical condition and they very much fear she will
not regain her health tho more comfortable just now
There [crossed out word] no epidemic but deaths are very frequent
around us Hicks Albertson had been sick but recovered
in degree so as to attend business was taken with spasms
and died in a few hours We have had extreme warm
weather for several weeks but night before last had a fine
rain and now the weather is delightfully cool too
cool to sit with open windows Joseph has gone to
take some things to send to the Hospital at Fort
Schuyler there are a great many there All supplys [sic] are
stoped [sic] being sent to Davids Island where the rebel prison
are in many instances people who had not contributed
any thing for the union wounded were anxious to give
to the rebel so it was easy to see where their sympathy was
The Draft is going on in N Y see some names that we know
among the number is Howard Wright [J?]DW son & J Wilids
R R Wilids son how our Nephews will fare is to be seen
Matilda is not al all well the root or [ilegible] [difficulty?]
in her mouth seems to be the cause Had a letter from
Lucretia lately she spoke of the remarkable character
of the col[ored] troops said they committed no depredations whatever
and were very superior every way to the white regiments so their officers
said E M Davis has been very much interested in them Thomas Mott has
gone to Europe again affectionately Mary
[Mary Robbins Post]
Roslyn, NY is a village in Nassau County on the north shore of Long Island
Great Neck, NY is a village in Nassau County on the north shore of Long Island
Matinecock,NY is a village located within the Town of Oyster Bay in Nassau County
Jericho, NY is a hamlet in Nassau County on the north shore of Long Island
Robert Barclay (1648-1690): Scottish Quaker; published Apology for the True Christian Divinity: Being an Explanation and Vindication of the Principles and Doctrines of the People called Quakers. (1676 ) which set forth the tenets of the Quaker religion in the form of fifteen theses; aruged that all true knowledge comes from divine revelation and is imparted directly to the individual
Perhaps refers to Stimonson Powell, a Quaker minister from Westbury Monthly Meeting
Women’s petition: On May 14, 1863, Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton called a meeting of the Women's National Loyal League. The League called for the immediate abolition of slavery and gathered signatures on petitions asking Congress to “pass at the earliest practicable day an act emancipating all persons of African descent held to involuntary service or labor in the United States."
Oyster Bay, NY: a hamlet on the north shore of Long Island in Nassau County
Fort Schuyler: located at the southeastern tip of the Bronx; includes McDougall Hospital a U.S. military hospital that treated wounded soliders during the war
Lucretia Mott(1793-1880): well-known Philadelphia Quakers; leader of the abolition and women’s rights movements
Edward Morris Davis (1818-1897): Abolitionist and Philadelphia merchant was married to James and Lucretia Mott’s daughter Maria Mott (1812-1897)
William and Mary (Post) Hallowell? daughter of Isaac and Hannah Post
2nd mo 8th 3 oclock
I have just got home from
New York I went down day before
yesterday in the afternoon to here [sic] Carl
Shurz at Brooklyn I like him very
much he advocated the equality of
all before the law and to the b^a^llot
said he thought the President made
a great mistake in taking the rebels
back and keeping the coulerd [sic] people
who were universially [sic] loyal out
that the President spoke truly when
he said the Southern people done
as well as he expected, for he to [sic]
could say the same, and what could
be expected of people who had
risked all who had for the support
slavery, and to have the rule of the
government, and had lost both rule
and Slavery, and had forfieted [sic] all
right not only to slavery but life also
that if the President had only said
that as a condition of pardon the
(Page 2)
black man must have equal rights
in all respects, they would have
gladly excepted [sic] it. that the President
sent him through the Southern States
he had made his report and he had
not one word to take back, that he
expected the committee of 15 would
make a repote [sic] much more startling
than his, he still hope [sic] that Congress
would maintain their position
I yesterday attended New York Monthly
Meeting they had much business among
the rest Silas T Robbins for marrying a
member contrary to our order and being
drafted and procuring a substitute
and nearly neglecting the attendance of
meetings I said to one friend that I
thought it a little inconsistent to
bring his case of hireing [sic] a substitute
when they all were paying taxes for
the very purpose of hireing substitutes
so that others would not be drafted I
have heard that Silas aske [sic] one of the
overerseers [sic]whiter it was any worst to
(Page 3)
hire a man to go, than to pay the 300 $
which the law then required after being
drafted, which a son of the Overseer did
and which has not yet been noticed and
proberly [sic] never will they also 4 other
cases of serving in the war
Two months ago the monthly meeting of
New York got up a concern to see if they
could not do something to get up a the
young folks to attend meeting and feel
an interest in society which resulted
in calling a conferrence [sic] of friends
generally both young and old to have
a free enterchange [sic] of views They had
one meeting and adjourned to meet
last evening again I felt so much interest
I staid to attend it Samuel Willets was
appointed chairman at the first meeting
after Thomas Folk was rejected he acted
again last evening after the meeting
was opened Effringham Cock introduce
the business by offering to the meeting
some resolutions the first that plain
-ness does not require a particular form but
(Page 4)
simplisity [sic] which after much being
said resulted by a large majority in
favour of the view, the next the names
of days and months which also had a
large majority in favour of a change
Then came the music question which
called out much expression when
the meeting adjourned for 2 weeks
without coming to a dissition [sic] the
resetutions [sic] were worded very different
from what I have given the above
is only the substance the first meeting
nearly full up stairs [sic] as well as down last evening
quit [sic] a snow storm yet the house nearly full
down stairs [sic] Rosoland Johnson and Aar^o^n Powell
were their [sic] and took an active part Aaron read
a resolution proposeing [sic] to ask the monthly
to take steps to have the disipline [sic] so change
as to do away with the select meeting which
was not reached as the other took all the
time wether it will be entertained next time
is somewhat uncertain yet I think if they
do not allow the largest liberty now they
have begun it will do no good but rather
hurt From what appeared in the meeting
some were for stoping [sic] the thing last
night but a very large majority were disposed
to to [sic]meet again I heard of some advising other
freinds [sic]to stay away. I suppose many of the con
-ceritive [sic] friends will feel as though all was lost
[Text aligned upside along top margin of Page 3 continuing over to Page 2]
Just say to Jacob that I don’t know but his letter is lost it stood on the mantle for weeks waiting to send it or hear from him about it it was taken off by some one [sic] and whither it has got I cannot
[Text aligned vertically along right margin of Page 2]
tell we are thinking it may turn up somewhere but have not-the least idea where
[Text aligned horizontally along bottom margin of Page 2]
it is if found will send I am sorry for our carelessness.
Carl Shurz (1829-1906) German born; came to US in 1852; abolitionist; served in Civil War as general; at the request of President Andrew Johnson, Shurz toured the Southern States in the summer of 1865; his report was critical of Johnson’s reconstruction policies which were adversely effecting blacks and those who had stayed loyal to the Union.
Andrew Johnson (1808-1875) was elected as Abraham Lincoln’s Vice President in the election of 1864. He became President when Lincoln was assassinated in 1865. A native of Tennessee he was eventually impeached by radical Republican members of Congress who disagreed with his reconstruction policies regarding the civil and political rights of former black slaves and the repatriation of Confederate insurgents.
Monthly Meeting is the basic unit of Quaker administration, which holds regular monthly business meetings. Only Quakers could participate. It has responsibility for care of members, authorizes removals and marriages, maintains discipline, considers the queries, manages meeting property, fosters social concerns, and reports regularly to the quarterly meeting. Business meetings in theory are held in a spirit of worship, and so are in effect meetings for worship for conducting business.
http://www.swarthmore.edu/academics/friends-historical-library/quaker-meeting-records/glossary.xml
After 1828, at the time of the Hicksite Separation, there were two New York Monthly Meetings: the Orthodox met at Rutgers Medical College and later on Henry Street, and the Hicksites retained the Rose Street and Hester Street Meeting Houses.
Civil War substitutes
In 1863, the government federalized the draft process, and while not allowing specific exemptions for religious beliefs, the government created a $300.00 commutation fee in lieu of service. However, many Meetings considered the payment of this fee by its members tantamount to nonobservance of the testimony against military service; therefore, no legal means existed for drafted Quakers to avoid violating the peace testimony in most Meetings.
Because of their beliefs, individual Quakers struggled with their consciences in ways not fully understood by others. of the peace testimony to some Quakers, people not accustomed to pocketing scruples. Others found ways in their hearts to make peace with their decision to make war.
http://courses.wcupa.edu/jones/his480/reports/civilwar.htm
On February 24, 1864, the following exemption clause was included as an amendatory to the Enrollment Act:
Members of religious denominations who shall by oath or affirmation declare that they are conscientiously opposed to the bearing of arms, and who are prohibited from doing so by the rules and articles of faith and practice of said religious denominations, shall, when drafted into the military service, be considered non-combatants, and shall be assigned by the Secretary of War to duty in the hospitals, or to the care of freedman, or shall pay the sum of $300 to such person as the Secretary of War shall designate…to be applied to the benefit of sick and wounded soldiers.
http://castle.eiu.edu/historia/archives/2011/2011Carnahan.pdf
SCHURZ, KARL
JOHNSON, ANDREW
CIVIL WAR
RECONSTRUCTION
QUAKER MONTHLY MEETING
2nd mo 8th 3 oclock
I have just got home from
New York I went down day before
yesterday in the afternoon to here [sic] Carl
Shurz[sic] at Brooklyn I like him very
much he advocated the equality of
all before the law and to the b^a^llot
said he thought the President made
a great mistake in takeing [sic] the rebels
back and keeping the coulerd [sic] people
who were universially [sic] loyal out
that the President spoke truly when
he said the Southern people done
as well as he expected, for he to [sic]
could say the same, and what could
be expected of people who had
risked all who had for the support
slavery, and to have the rule of the
government, and had lost both rule
and Slavery, and had forfieted [sic] all
right not only to slavery but life also
that if the President had only said
that as a condition of pardon the
(Page 2)
black man must have equal rights
in all respects, they would have
gladly excepted[sic] it. that the President
sent him through the Suthern [sic] States
he had made his report and he had
not one work to take back, that he
expected the committee of 15 would
make a repote [sic] much more startling
than his, he still hopes that Congress
would maintain their position
I yesterday attended New York Monthly
Meeting they had much buisness [sic]among
the rest Silas T Robbins for marrying a
member contrary to our order and being
drafted and procuring a substitute
and nearly neglecting the attendance of
meetings I said to one friend that I
thought it a little inconsistent to
bring his case of hireing [sic] a substitute
when they all were paying taxes for
the very purpose of hireing [sic] substitutes
so that others would not be drafted I
have heard that Silas aske [sic] one of the
overerseers [sic]whither [sic] it was any worst[sic] to
(Page 3)
hire a man to go, than to pay the 300 $
which the law then required after being
drafted, which a son of the Overseer did
and which has not yet been noticed and
proberly [sic] never will they also 4 other
cases of serveing [sic] in the war
Two months ago the monthly meeting of
New York got up a concern to see if they
could not do something to get up a the
young folks to attend meeting and feel
an interest in society which resulted
in calling a conferrence [sic] of friends
generally both young and old to have
a free enterchange [sic]of views They had
one meeting and adjourned to meet
last evening again I felt so much interest
I staid [sic] to attend it Samuel Willets was
appointed chairman at the first meeting
after Thomas Folk was rejected he acted
again last evening after the meeting
was opened Effringham Cock introduce [sic]
the buisness [sic] by offering to the meeting
some resolutions the first that plain
=ness does not require a particular form but
(Page 4)
simplisity [sic] which after much being
said resulted by a large majority in
favour of the view, the next the names
of days and months which also had a
large majority in favour of a change
Then came the music question which
called out much expression when
the meeting adjourned for 2 weeks
without coming to a dissition [sic] the
reselutions [sic] were worded very different
from what I have given The above
is only the substance. the first meeting
nearly full up stairs as well as down last evening
quit [sic] a snow storm yet the house nearly full
down stairs Rosoland Johnson and Aaron [Powell?]
were their [sic] and took an active part Aaron read
a resolution proposeing [sic] to ask the monthly
to take steps to have the disipline [sic] so change
as to do away with the select meeting which
was not reached as the other took all the
time wether [sic] it will be entertained next time
is somewhat uncertain yet I think if they
do not allow the largest liberty now they
have begun it will do no good but rather
hurt From what appeared in the meeting
some were for stoping [sic] the thing last
night but a very large majority were disposed
to to [sic]meet again I heard of some advising other
freinds [sic]to stay away. I suppose many of the cons
=ceritive [sic] friends will feel as though all was lost
[Added comment around periphery of pp. 2 and 3. Starts upside down across top 3 & 2, then sidewise down left edge of 2, then right side up bottom page 2]
Just say to Jacob that I don’t know but his letter is lost it stood on the mantle for weeks waiting to send it or hear from him about it it was taken off by some one and whither it has got I cannot tell we are thinking it may turn up somewhere but have not the least idea where it is if found will send I am sorry for our carelessness .
(Page 1)
Kings Ferry [illegible] Cay Co N.Y.
April 29th 1857
My dear Friend Amy
I am about to tax thee with a demonstra=
tion_ of my tender regards in the shape of a letter
because the season has arrive'd when we
have a right to expect a revival of nature
and we are a part of her domain so I will
send my thoughts westward to greet my
long tried friends the Posts who I trust are
still standing _ Whether my children have
given you a call of late I know not as
Abbie did not say much about R. ^in a letter from Mich.^ perhaps
they did not see "the friends" at all_ but the
fact of their having staid [sic] one night in R.
and my following them thither in my mind
has reviv'd in me a fresh desire to see or
hear from you_ I have preserv'd a sweet
recollection of your kindness toward me on
all occasion, and need not say how I prize
the priviledge [sic] of your friendship _ and i
suppose there have been many seasons when I
whould have thus made manifest my love if
I had not feard [sic] to intrude on your time &c&c
(Page 2)
I have spent the winter with my children on ^(or near
the banks of the Owaseo_ with improvd [sic] health and
am now with E J Jacobs at Venice I find myself
happily quite useful attending to a lovely young
babe 3 mnths [sic] of age she is healthy and her mother
has improv'd in health & spirits since her
birth_ my son Isaac Jacob has a lame
knew [sic] but his health is better than usual otherwise
our worthy friends I [Gser?] & wife enjoy a tolerable state
of health Anna still an invalid _ My dear
Phebe is apparently now recovring [sic] her health
slowly she is still at Geneva think, she may
be able to go to Aubun [sic] to sojourn with [Dorcas?]
in may_ We are looking toward Y.M. in june
and are casting about to see who will be disposd [sic]
to join in the meeting there _ How do you
feel with respect to Spiritualism as it is manifested
in conventions and the like: not withstanding
N Clark is not what we could desire yet he
has I think done good in Auburn [Cy?]
by getting up (with the assistance of some
noble soals [sic] unhealthy excitement in that
place
(Page 3)
I feel it a blessing to me that I was able to
attend when miss Bebee [sic] was there _ also the
convention of two days _ there was much good
speaking and I never enjoyed quaker meeting
with so pure a zest I thought of you my
precious friends then and longed to be near
you I have known and felt such sympathy
in your society as I know in none other
neither of my children are fully commited [sic]
to' H & [Dorcas?] go with me sometimes and
E & Isaac J are to some extent convinced yet
E is still in doubt as to the influence of her
lost baby how delighful would it be if I could
make them feel as I do but I must not be
impatient the way may open yet for them to see &
feel more fully I should be glad to have
a few lines from you if it were only a recog
nition that you were still in the same field
of labour _ My own field has been so full of labors
and so arduous have been the conflicts thro' which
I have travail'd since we parted that like my
dear Mother I have felt best to keep my cares
to myself rather than elicit the prayers even of
(Page 4)
of [sic] my dearest friends on this planet
but now that some ^trying^ scenes have been enacted
and I find myself still in working trim
I will _ try to aspire to a more natural
state and what I cannot help _ endeavor
to improve by _ my home is very quiet
now for removd [sic] from the bustle of life
and so I will bid my friends a good
bye with much love and a hope of
hearing from you some time this
spring If Genesee it pays Isaac must
pay himself for his cutlery
my kind regard to Sarah Willis
and other enquirers
Sarah E Thayer
Isaac & Amy Post
Rochester
(Page 1)
Westbury 12 mo 24 1852
Dear Brother
It is a rainy day and I have so many notions that
want looking after , I hardly know what to do first. so
like the man I have heard of that concluded to go fishing
I am in the house, and what I shall scrible [sic] proberly [sic] will
not be worth much, but as you know my me you will make
the nesary [sic] alloughance [sic]. So far we have had a very mild
winter with much rain and mud freeing [sic] and thawing
makes it very mudy [sic] and bad roads for this section , but
very favourable on account of the [illegible] it does not take so much
in warm weather, hay has been seling [sic] as high as I
ever knew it for so long time, has sold as high a [sic] [15?]/ per [illegible]
but is now about 12/ but instead of helping us makes us
feel as though our buisness [sic] was very poor but as we are
at it we do not expect to change yet awhile.
^I mean neighborhood^
As to our position in Society I think it seems more lonly [sic] if
posible [sic]. and what the result will be I know not, it
may be like the morning, as the darkest time is just
before day. we may yet experience [sic] more unity of feeling
with those around us, but as we feel assured that our position
is right –am in hope we shall not go to them, but that their [sic] will
be an increase on our side. I sometimes have faith to
believe [sic] their [sic] will but at other times it very small. yet
I think as to our neighbourly kindness such as borrowing and
(Page 2)
lending and when we visit talk about worldly matters such
as the price of cows horses wheat stocks &c and when
Society I think as much kindness and good will toward us
as ever. And when Society matters come up if ^we^ will only let our
views go and talk of Friends as a peculiar people it all go well-
but as we very seldom can make out to pass along in that way
we are regarded as rather dangerous people although we try to walk
so that they cannot find much falt [sic] with our conduct. One of
our boarders was Elias Lewis [Jr?] has had a very hard time with a
gathering in his ear for several days very sick when it broke
he thought it run a teaspoonful at once is now better.
he wants and I believe has made arraingments [sic] ^in part^ to go to
New York. I think he has not sold his store yet has talked
some of having an Auction and sell his goods in that
way what his object I beleive [sic] to get money faster. some
of us think as he is now doing prety [sic] well it would be better
for him to be satisfied. William Hicks is not doing buisness [sic]
in Josephs [sic] name, or some say Samuel Willets lets Joseph
have money and hire William this winter and if the
buisness [sic] answers to start William their [sic] again. some people
have very little mercy for him have heard of one young woman
saying he ought to be hung. What the church will do with him
is not desided [sic] yet but think it most likely he will have to
step out. It is now time to go to the mail so farewell
Joseph Post
[Text written by Joseph Post is on the same sheet of paper and is transcribed as Letter as Letter 919, dated March 18, 1852]
(Page 1)
19th I have been looking over what has been written and am almost
ready to smile at. the desponding feeling which is manifested by
my generally cheerful and hopeful Post if it had been my production
it would not have been any thing strange for I am often clothed with
discouragement and may acknowledge that it was prevailed abundan^tly^
for the past few weeks and I have wished so ardently for some
one of you to council and unburthen [sic] our little difficulties unto
you can understand us and appreciate our motives but who is
there beside that can? I have a hope that the time is near at
hand when we may grasp your hands and give you a welcom [sic] to our
hearts and home and trust all gloom will be banished by your
beloved presence yes I feel that we should no longer feel alone
but be able to chase a thousand and combined could put ten
thousand annoying and vexatious circumstances to flight
We have had a few pleasant spring days when the peepers and
robin birds made their sweet and musical sounds to gladden
the heart but all are hushed and the secene [sic] has changed to
winter in its most unlovely aspect But indoors it is cozy and
bright so I will not dwell on the disagreeable longer and
retire for the night and perhaps I shall feel cheerful and can
fill this more to my liking so farewell First day eve the shades
of evening are gathering around me but no brightness is reflected from
the setting sun which is hidden by dark and gloomy clouds which
overspread the entire firmament and have I fear imparted some
what of their gloom to my mind for on taking the pen I feel no insp
iration for it and I dont know if it were not for the reward we
anticipate would lay it aside and rest for I am nearly prostrated
by exertion and a fright we had this afternoon in consequence of
information we had that Mary R house was on fire I ran so
fast as I could until we came in sight of the house and to
our great joy found it was only the chimney since which I am
all unstrung I have had the asthma for a week more than usual
which did not abate by the exertion Matilda is in New York
has been more unwell for several weeks and the family want
to be trying something and I dont know but she is willing
(Page 2)
to too so they went down on 3rd day last to get advice from
several Dr's and she is now under the care of Dr Grey have
not heard what opinion they gave of her but I do not xepect [sic]
she will be benefitted by the treatment for she has tried
all the pathys to some extent and has continued to decline
Jehiel and Phebe are desirious she should go South and they could
persuade Stephen and Matilda if approved by a Dr but their
friends generally would disapprove it as utterly vain
Samuel Hicks remains somewhat of an invalid but is out
on pleasant days Elisabeth Mott has been quite poorly with kidney
complaint is better I have not seen her in a long while
We are feeling quite tried about our school affairs
in a letter from Cynthia sometime ago she xpressed [sic] her willingn^ess^
to teach for the summer and suppose she is at liberty to come
from any private hindrance but what she will do now I know
not we have invited her to come and teach our girls or come and
spend the Summer which ever she prefers but whether she will do
either I am indignant at the mean pittiful [sic] objections made aga^inst^
her and what think you it can be? Why it is because she puts on
occasionally the Bloomer dress that all this mighty effort has been
made electioneering and speaking disparigingly [sic] of her I feel like taking
my departure sometimes from such a proscriptive place then too
she is too liberal in her sentiments of reform and if not Orthodox
alltogether [sic] she shall not come and at any rate if she did come
"she should not wear a Bloomer in the school" I told Joseph I
was thankful we had a little power left we can invite such as
we choose to visit us let them dress or beleive [sic] as they may but
if they go on at this rate we may not long have this privilege
We were very much pleased with your description of meeting s &c
and also in relation to Antislavery Frederick and indeed all
was a rich treat we percieve [sic] your friends the Fosters are
in your section have as yet seen no appointments for
your city Your said nothing about William & Marys
visiting us we are hoping form what we hear to quit
then but it is so dark I cannot see one line from another
so must leave Do write soon very soon to your brother
and sister tho I feel as though this was too poor to
merit a reply but do it for your love sake Mary
(Page 1)
Ledyard 3 mo - 6 th 1852
Esteem Friend A Post
I am at this time drawn to address
thee for the purpos [sic] of learning the true course of S. Ann C.
Carpenters derangement hering [sic] that, She was with you
G. Willets writes; It is to be from the affects [sic] of Spiritual
influance [sic]. I do not concieve [sic] but there must have bin [sic] some
cause that has affected her mental powers previous to her
conclusion that; It was the Spirits that caussed [sic] her thus
to be. her friends feels much grieved for her and Symphathy [sic]
for her husband. S Dunlap. Is most wild about, It She is so
situated that She cannot leave home or She would Soon be
there Caroline is very unwell. Ann Maria gone to Dutches [sic]
George is much complaning [sic]. It will confer a great favour
for thee to write as soon as possible. her situation and
what the Dr. thinks of her. Susan Ann told S Dunlap.
last time there, She had such turns of her head She did
not know but that, She would loose her Senses. Our family is
in usual health. I do regret the looss [sic] of health of that S.
Doty. is labouring under_ with love to Isaac. thy Children
J. &. Joseph. who made us so pleasent [sic] a Visit.
thy Friend as ever EH Prior
NB. Sibilla Winston as they say will be married next fifth
day to Joseph Thurby son of Ruscum Thurby. a great match
for her_ William Brigs is marrid [sic] to one Smith.
(Page 2)
Joseph Elderd one year ago requested to be
released from Select mee It was put put ^off^ recently the
Select mee sent a complaint against him that he
lost his usefullness [sic] as a minister; It so happened
that all the old ones Stiff ones was In the Select mee
they the mo_ mee sat there judgment aside
and released him on his request (he had not
attended the Select Committee mee in more than a
year; It is a Stroke to them. to think that the now
disorderly part dont rise in time of prain [sic] and are
not affraid [sic] of examining new thinks [sic]
(Page 3)
[Blank]
(Page 4)
[Text in center of page, written upward]
Mar 8
NY
Amy Post
To the Care of Rochester
Isaac Post
(Page 1)
2nd month 8th 1850
Dear Relatives
We received Isaac's letter dated 25 of 12 mo
which was very exceptable [sic] and I have no other excuse for not
wrighting [sic] sooner than negligance [sic]. We are geting [sic] along much as
usual in our neighbourhood as respects worldly buisness [sic], and
I think among those that are called the worlds people
ar [sic] those that seem care the least about society their [sic]
seems to be a little more toleration toward the reforms of the
day, But on the part of the would leaders in this sextion [sic]
of our Isreal [sic] as they term it. I think no abatement of their
hostility to what seems to be good. and especially the antislavery
and nonresistance movments, Our Rachel does not ye^a^ld [sic] in
her position to those who differ from her on the subject of
slavery. In our last monthly meeting she arose with saying
she was more and more confirmed that Abolitionism as now
promulgated was out of the truth and that morral [sic] reform
was only another name for a departure from the ^foundation which God has laid^ truth
and then said much to strenghen [sic] her views, which to me seemed
very weak. she has said much a little time back against those
that said any thing agains [sic] the governments. that that it
was the duty of those that had not seen beyond the force
that if it were not for the laws we proberbly [sic] could not
meet as we then were in the quiet, nor enjoy our fireside
in peace, and yet she holds up the view that we have
no right to judge an other. that it is right for a person
to do whatever they beleive [sic] it right to do. And some
of her admirers try to defend her to the in her extreamest [sic]
views. I had conversation with one lately who said if a person
thought it right to hold slave we out [sic] not to judge him,
but had to acknowledge that if one of his children were
in slavery he would think it wrong and would want
assistance to get his child again. I told him that my doctrine
was to judge aman [sic] by his fruits. that however much
a man might plead duty if his fruits were not ^good^ I should
condemn him. that I knew of no better way, and felt justfied [sic]
in condemning a person whoes [sic] fruits were not good
(Page 2)
We have heard much about the raps of late ^in these parts^ but I suppose not all
that has been said ^in the papers^ as we do not take the Tribune ^which has said the most on the subject^ have heard of
a book that has been published at Auburn on the subject but
wither [sic] that will give ^us^ any light or adr more than we have
had I know not. If the spirits of our departed Friends are watch
ing over us for good and are willing to communicate with us
it seems strange to us, it should be nessary [sic] to go to two or three
girls to have the raps explained. as we have always undestood [sic]
that the raps are heard by all that may be in the room
now as you understand the language and can here [sic] the
raps why cannot you talk ^with the spirit^ when the girls are not by
is not your faith strong enough yet. do enquir [sic] of the spirits
the cause and why it is nessary [sic] to come to Rochester to
hear from the spirits of our departed friends, as the language
is now undersood [sic] it seems to me we might learn it
so that we need not be under the nesesity [sic] of going to another
We hear of chairs tables &c moveing [sic] do they ever move when
their [sic] is a lighted candle in the room or in the day time
as we understand unbeleivers [sic] hear the noise do they ever
see things move about the room without visible
asistance [sic]. Timothy Titus was buried on the last day of last
month had been sick about 10 days suffered much. was in his
85th year. Uncle Robert is complains much of cough trouble
ing [sic] him does not get to meeting more than half of the
time. Susan Willis has been sick for some weeks past
and Sarah Post has been their [sic] for housekeeper, Stephen
Hewlet. Samuel Smith and Edmund Smith at south have
all gone to their long home with a few weeks all old
men. We have not seen any thing of Samuel Post ad family
yet. they went from N York to Dutches County without
coming on the Island. I suppose they will make us a
visit yet. unless they do as we did when we were at Rochester
Willet. S. told us a little time ago that the desition [sic] was
against them in Jeffries buisness [sic]. will the accounts
be settled up now or is their [sic] more lawsuits defending
(Page 3)
Townsend Rushmore paid me 1$ for the North S^t^arr [sic] the
13th of last month please pay it over. E Lewis says James
Mott does not take the North Starr [sic] from the office nor
has not from the commencement. I think they had better not
be sent. If the paper is paid for it had better be sent to some
body that will read it if such a person can be found.
First day 10th of the month went to meeting to day found William Healy their [sic]
and quit [sic] a large corlection [sic] of People I suppose information had been
given after a time he arose in his solemn manner and began
by quoting scripture and then said he had prayed to God
that he might be divested of all human simpathy [sic] he cared
nothing about the sufferings of the world so that Zion might
prosper said many good things. but the principle part of his
concern we had no unity with. had much to say against those
that doughted [sic] the ^inspiration of the^ bible, if any one was led to dought [sic] any part of
the bible he wanted ^him^ to pause and consider for any one that was
led by inspiration it would corrispond [sic] with the Prophets and
Apostes [sic] of old. on the whole I thought it a very Orthodoy [sic] sermon
entirely behind even what Hicksite doctrine was a few years
ago ^and even Orthodoxy would not own some of it I think^ Realy [sic] it does seem very discouraging to see the [obliterated]
be good ones holding back from all or nearly all that
we consider so very nesary [sic] for a Christian life and
what makes it more discouraging those that do not approve
of what is passing are so loth [sic] to speak out to say anythng [sic]
to them they say o try to keep along hopes it will be
better soon, I sometimes think they are but little better
off than we are, for we have some satisfaction in speak-
=ing out our sentiments, and they are in nearly as low repute
as we are. Martha Coles was reccommended [sic] as Minister some
time ago, she being of the right stamp but in my opinion
a rather small concern. I ^think^ cousin Edmund will not receive
the pass very soon although much more of a Minister I think
he sometimes does quit [sic] a little journey attending meeting
which the rulers do not approve of and Stimanson does
not draw so well in the traces as the desire so I think he
to [sic] will have to be content to be a common man some
time longer unless he changes. all of which I am glad of
it may be some of them may come out against the select meeting
[Continues in right margin]
in consequence which would be fine
(Page 4)
We have heard that William and Mary are going in Pensylvania [sic] on
a visit of couse [sic] we shall expect them here to visit us I want
William to arraign [sic] his buisness [sic] so as to make us a good long visit
we want to see them very much, and all the rest of you
Some times think think we may again look in upon you but
when the time will come I cannot at peasent [sic] see. O if you
were nearer us so that we could stept [sic] in often and have a little
interchange of sentiment it would be very pleasent [sic] We have had a
very mild winter so far no snow of any conciquence a few sleds out
a few days but waggoning [sic] good while the snow lasted. one week ago
ponds all open came cold today so that we filed [sic] our ice house and now
the ponds are all open again very little frost if any in the ground
[Continues below with line beginning "How is it"]
[Text in middle of page, written upwards]
North Hempstead Feb 11''
10
Isaac Post
Rochester
New York
[Text at bottom of page, written normal]
How is it likely to be with thee in respect to money matters this spring
is their any prospect of haveing [sic] any for H Post. how does thee
get along with the old property on corn hill. and how is property
in general is their [sic] any demand for it. I have seen many farms
advertised in this section of county this spring and here of
but few that want places I think the prices that have
been asked cannot be sustained. Wheat is low, also almost all
kinds of produce we have to spair [sic]. except oats and potatoes which
do prety [sic] well at about 40 cts per bushel and potatoes from 4 to 6 S
Please wright [sic] often we love to here from our absent friend
J Post
[written upside down along top margin Page 1]
Since I asked about the fair I have seen in the Star the proceeds are small indeed compa
red with the Boston but all things must have a beginning and hope they will not be dishe
-artened by it have often thought of you this eve imagining you were [listening?] to
Frederic’s lecture I have been reading his former one
as the best [substitute?] farewell ever yours Mary
Westbury 1st Moth 6
Our Dear Relatives
At home again and how many bright
and beautiful thoughts does that word awaken in the mind and
especially to those of us who are blesed [sic] with all to make it what
home should ever be the abode of confidence and peace where without
jar or collision each may fulfill their respective routine of duties
unmoved by the din and tumult of the world through which we are
passing probably you would be willing to know when we arrived at
this home we so praise well it was on the eve of the third day
of January 1851 found all well and apparently glad of our return
our domestics said “and sure you are welcom”[sic] It seems as though it
was the right time for us to make the visit and I rejoice in its
accomplishment -- it having been throughout (to us) very pleasant and
the recollection ^of it^ sweet We had no accident or detention scarcely on
our way but the night was wearisome enough but you all know that
We got ^up to^ [Willis’s?] before 10 and in the afternoon home Samuel Willis went
after Jacob seventh day in the afternoon they with Catharine (who had been
a few days at Townsend Rushmores) came to see us had many questions
to ask Samuel and Catharine do not seem to be prepared to believe on our
report any more than before which I do not wonder at knowing it is im
-possible to realise the manifestation unless witnessed have not read Mrs
Draper’s communication yet First day James and Elisabeth came they
too inquired relative to all these things Elisabeth would enjoy a visit to you
greatly, she enters heart and soul into many things she scarcely expresses
to all her home folks I told her of Aunt Phebe s communication she said
how pleasant if I could believe it fully I think she very nearly belives [sic]
Joseph had some talk with J P Hale he said some of his
friends thought the application ^in his lecture^ too [pointed?] he thinks there
is more antislavery feeling at the South than the North says the
North will submit to any thing however oppressive &c &c
It seemed quite strange on entering New York to see no snow but
there was ice in ^the^ streets but on the side walks day as in summer
the night we got home there was a little snow perhaps two inches
so that it looked a little white it is nearly gone now but
it is cloudy suppose you have an additional supply each day
[Page 2]
we hear there has been considerable since we left it may be a
mistake for I think you had quite enough
Uncle James would rejoice if in his power to visit you I should
be glad to be present when he first heard the rappings. it wou^ld^
furnish a theme for many an hours talk. But as we are to hear
the sounds here he may have a chance without going to Rochester
I really wish we could have the opportunity of hearing in the prese^nce^
of some of our wise ones Charles Post has had quite a turn of rheuma
-tism is better Elias been very lame and is still ran a pitch fork in
his foot Eddy Rushmore is quite po^o^rly with a cold earache and gath
-erings in his head been so two or three weeks have not seen Matilda
yet Neither have we been to Jericho so that I cannot speak of their
welfare Esther Titus has a son three weeks old call him Walter
Uncle Robert rather smarter (how queer that word looks written)
Joseph thought he would fill the ice house to day but the men
thought it would be rather wet and went away he is sorry as it would
have been a pretty nice day for it We have had a letter from Henry
C Wright it was directed to Cynthia but he said intended for the whole
family it is a treat to receive good letters and from loved friends far
away doubly so, he is in Indiana Suppose you have read George
Thompson’s speech at Fannel [sic] Hall at the time of the Bazar [sic] it is quite a
different one from some other of his but shows great versatility of talent
and eloquence of stile [sic] eaqual [sic] to any their Bazar seems to be success
-ful beyond their highest expectations -- Did Frederic get to Buffalo
or did the snow prevent the train from going through and how did
their Fair succeed? we shall want to hear all the particulars about
your meeting and Thompson the Fosters and all the eccetras [sic] which
occur at home and in public do write soon I will stop pretty
soon for there has been no happenings and I am two day in a
cold sore throat head ache &c but have applyed [sic] cold water pretty
freely and hope I shall soon conquer it how are Sarah Bridget and
the other invalids of your family hope they are better it colds are
very prevalent here our girls been most sick with them I wish
some one was here to add some to this as I do not like to send so
little that is worth sending with love to all the household and the
other dear friends with whome [sic] we have mingled so pleasantly I
hope Edmund will not fail to improve the
am yours affectionately Mary
opportunity s [sic] offered to investigate and he will oblige us if he will report to us his
progress.
(Page 1)
[Text in top margin, written upside down]
Father is better has been out to meeting I think we shall
ride there to day I hope so it is a beautiful morning
[Text normal]
Dear sister
I have intended writing to thee ever since
the reception of thy letter to us jointly, but about that
time John escerted [sic] himself too much by lifting at
butchering time a hog that was heavy, which affected
his back in the weak part, and where he now thinks
the origin of the disease has been and still is, in the
kidney, and where the pain usually commences and
esctends [sic] to the hip ancle [sic] & instep. Dctr Seaman "said
It may have all originated from the stomach" probable [sic]
it has for his throat and stomach has been affected
for a year or two and he said he could not describe
the feeling to any one except the soreness. I however
think they have been better some time. On taking medicine
twice lately it has affected him very much and brought
away a good deal of offensive matter very much so indeed.
& although ^he^ feels his weakness much this morning & very
little appetite, I hope and trust strength will come
in its stead. and since I have ^been^ writing he spoke
about having a roasted potatoe [sic] which I got and put
in the ashes embers, and he is so remarkable for keeping
time that he could tell escactly [sic] when to take them out
and seem to relish them, but when he will be able
to sit long enough to answer thy letter I dont [sic] know.
he lies down mostly it seems to mitigate the pain. using the
limb often increases it. We often think of aunt Phebe
heard lately by E.P. W. letter hope she continues mending
my love is to her. I hope she will be able to write to me soon
(Page 2)
Father has been very poorly lately mother thinks with an
inflamation [sic] of the bowels and bilious affection [sic]. Willet went
to Dctr Carl and discribed [sic] his great distress, (he sent some
medicine for him to take that night as he does not go out nights,
he did not get his clothes off for three nights, but has now
got comfortable with the esception [sic] of some soreness of the
bowels. I have not been to see him since. he sent for Henry
Willis to go there I suppose on the subject of the free school law
and Henry said he was pretty smart and seemed very pleasant
The subject of the free school law, produces considerable escite-
=ment [sic] in some districts, Jericho being a large district and
a great deal of wealth went for free schools, being the first
time I suppose that our Jericho friends never manifested any
interest in district schools, (Jack _ Robbins says interest
will get them out) Our district did not go for free schools
the whole year, only the four months. [J?] and the remander [sic]
of the time the school is to be continued as heretofore, the poor
go free, and the rich ones [obliterated] defray their own
expenses, &c. 1st day, It is near a week since the forgoing [sic]
was written. John has improved so that he walks out a
little he sais[sic] his stomach is much better than it has been
for a long time, and his affected limb is far from well
but has less pain, Whenever we hear from Valentine N_
for some time past he is not smart has a cold or something
and aunt Abbie too is not very smart. but come to find out a
little more it appears that the same thing has returned again
"all their meat up here is a spoiling." &c. and we can imagine
how it is with them. ^those^ who have seen for our^them^selves aunt Phebe
can I expect ^imagine^ but they seem gaurded [sic] in their expressions on the subje [sic]
(Page 3)
I percieve [sic] the N Star has commenced with the married life
of ^[an?]^Mrs^ Mary Powell. I think her letters will remind aunt Phebe
of her friend who attends yearly meetings from Purchase or
thereabouts, and takes her baggage to Richards S Williams house
in the basement, & goes out among friends and finds them so beautifu [sic]
and kind that she cannot get away &c Amy I read thy letter to
Henry a few days ago. he said I think she gives a fair state=
ment of things among you. but I thought from what followed
that he with us considered them as but of small consequence
[illegible] ^but may prove to^ to thee ^as^ little [foxes?] which spoil the
tender vine. Oh how much I have desired that those things
among you might be cast away, as the man formerly cast
his idols of silver and gold which he made for himself to
worship, to the moles and the bats, for fear of the Lord
and for the glory of his magisty [sic]. thy talents sister ought
to be devoted to more rational pursuits, if I may be judge
only look back to thy tried feelings when thee was about to
give up" and thee rallied thy strength [to see?] what trouble and
vexation of spirit. perhaps my rebuke is to [sic] severe after
all thy pains and kindness and trouble in writing so particu
=lar to us. I have thought some of reading thy letter to Robert
suppose thee would not object as it was a publick [sic] [examination?]
Thomas and Phebe Hallowell are gone to Pensylvania [sic] left their boys
William and Margaret are not well. the former we sometimes see
at meeting the latter not at all. Phebe manifests a disposition
to mingle with us both in a society ^and friendly^ capasity [sic]. it is really
so pleasant to have her here and see her so much like
herself so open so pleasant, that I cannot reconcile the idea
of her returning to Canada again to live. Oh how very smart
Catharine is she walks here and recommends uncle John to diet
(Page 4)
strictly she is recieving [sic] so much benefit by it and cold bathing
she is very active and sais [sic] she is able to keep doing something
almost all the time. said she had work'd all the morning before
walking here and back again. Mother W is smart much better
John just asked if I had mentioned John Plummer prospect
of taking Elizabeth Dodge for his wife the proposal came
to our last Mo meeting. what is the reason sister Sarah
is so pent up that we cannot hear from her. I hope she will
take up the pen and tell us what she and Edmund are about
I dont see that the rest of you intend to, and Mary and William
ought to write to us. I cannot bear to become strangers
to our own dear relatives, unless their [sic] is something of
the kind there is much to fear ^on that account^. James Mott has been
quite poorly for a number of weeks so that he sat up a
very little. when I last heard he was better but not
out. but Elisabeth left him and went to meeting. Cornell
is kept to [Lot?] Cornelius school steadily. by report he is
improving nicely. and manifest talent. 6th day 18th of the 1st
month. yesterday was our Monthly meeting which Joseph
and Mary Post attended John Plummer seem to feel pretty
cleaver [sic] to judge by his preaching. he and his intended being
present and nothing appearing in the way for their proceed-
=ure [sic] they propose consummating their intentions of Marriage
on 7th day at her fathers. Mother thinks as he is a minister the
marriage out ^ought^ to be at the meeting house where the elders can
witness it. but they have been appointed a Minister to attend it
viz [Whitehead?] Hicks I hoped J & M Post would have come
here yesterday, but I suppose they could not as Willet
S. wife is up been spending the week with them &
they brought her with them to Jericho. I should like
to give her a call if I can, but I am very much
confined rather more than is good for my health I fear.
I have intended looking for those papers thee recommended
but have not succeeded as yet. I read so much now that
Mother takes many long breaths. Isaac Mary F. & Rachel I escpect [sic]
(Page 5)
have gone to NY to see Gilbert their [sic] is no doubt but you are
informed of his being placed in the Institute some time ago
he has been home twice in the time. they say much of him
as being an uncommon fine boy. which they assign ^attribute^ very much
to careful attentive training. William Robbins son has had very
little attention. aunt Esther sais [sic]. & we shall escpect [sic] to see more
improvement in him if he is kept there but he dont like to stay
very well I learn. Henry has just come in as he often does very accept
=ably he has a cold in his head and feels poorly. 23rd of the month --
If I send this at all it seems time that It is closed but
it seems not worth sending ^at^ all but for acknowledging the
acception [sic] of thine -- James and Elizabeth Mott were here
[obliterated] couple days since very pleasantly, read thy letter to E--
did not have an opportunity to read it to James on account
of the presence of others. but he thinks if the noises break out
here that he would endeavor to find where they originate, as unim
=portant as it may be to us. James has thought considerable
of going to the Harbor with his business but as he and [Hegeman?]
differed so much in the valuation of property it appears to be sus=
pended, Oh how I rejoice to see them so happy and devoted to
each other, it had been a long time that they had not been to
fathers, (owing to his sickness) and now he said he has come to go the
rounds with E --- and she might visit all her friends.
I think John is improving every day the pain abates he
sais [sic] he is on a rigid diet and grows thin and weaker but
that he dont mind that so much as hard pain has sat reading
his paper all the morning without once taking the couch
and now with love to all as if named in which my husband
joins I am they affectionate sister M.W.W.
(Page 6)
[Text in center of page, written downward]
Isaac Post
Rochester
Monroe C. o N Y
(Page 1)
4 moth 27
Dear Isaac & Amy
A few days since we received the welcom [sic] messenger of love
which had been anticipated[ed] for some time and thanks dear brother for
the intention of writing sooner I can excuse delay sometimes knowing how
swiftly time passes on and how many hinderances [sic] there are to prevent writi^ng^
yet I would encourage to faithfulness in this particular it is so pleasant
to hear from you often and since we are so much separated it seems almost
a duty to keep each other acquainted in this way and to open freely one thoug
-hts and convictions on any subject which is claiming our attention – true
we may differ in sentiment on some things which are encircled in mys
-tery and doubt still lett [sic] us be true to our impressions and write that
which presents to our minds freely Isaacs letter was our first intimation
of E P Willis s arrival suppose he was at Jericho last first day have not seen
him but hope in a few days we shall have that pleasure yesterday and the
day before was our Quarterly meeting and Aunt Mary pleased me greatly with
a few words of inteligence [sic] which was that Amy was thinking some of being
at the Aniversary [sic] – I fell [sic] quite assured that we shall not be disappointed
and if practicable we shall be so glad to see both of you do try come
It appears it has been with some difficulty a place has been obtained
for the meetings and doubtless there will be a strong emphatic tertimo
-ny to go forth against Webster and I think very likely the New Yorkers will
not listen very quietly to the censure of the man they had idolized and
whome [sic] the papers still land as being worthy of redoubled honor – It appears
the religious press have on this spoken out more nobly than they have
been wont to which is encouraging William G Furness is advertised for
one of the speakers which will I think be hailed with satisfaction by all
again as last year C L Remond is not announced I wonder if he will give
(Page 2)
another lesson in that subject this year – he has no reason to this time as
only the speakers at the aniversary [sic] are noticed and it may be excusable
[can?] in his eyes when so many others are left off the list who are eaqually [sic]
great Lucretia and others can attend again this year as their Y Meeting
is not until the week after Rowland Johnson I dont know whether
we have in any of our letters spoken of him and of his living in NY
he does and boards at Ann Lefferts attends Rose St meeting and often
speaks I dont know whether they know how fully [t]he is Identified with
abolitionists they will soon probably he was up on 5th day spoke
excellently his text was Seekest thou great things seek them not enlarged
on it then alluded to the state of society as it now was that he feaared
many were satisfied if they attended meetings dressed plainly and confor^med^
in address to the requisitions of disipline [sic] while they were trampling
the testimonys [sic] of truth under their feet and were doing violence
to the spirit of God it was cheering indeed John Plummer followed
in a dry and to me tedious communication to show that the Almighty
had changed his dispensations to suit man in the various ages of the
world and that he felt it among[s] the first requestions [sic] to dress planly [sic]
and speak the and thou some said there was no religion in dress and in such
little things & Rowland spoke in the last meeting but so loud and distinct
that we could hear [as] well said it was with reluctance that he again rose
not being fully identified with you in a [Fk?] capacity spoke of the iterest [sic]
he had felt while listening to the queries answers and the remarks made upon
the various subjects &c &c he would not willingly hold up a too discouraging
view but it appeared to him that we were not quite what we were represented
to be by the answers if we were so happy was it for us spoke more particularly
on Love and Unity which was represented to subsist among us unbroken he que
-ried what kind it was whether it was expansive and universal or whether
it was of the description which only loved those who love us whether
(Page 3)
the hand of kindness and charity could be extended to those whose views
differ from our own and a willingness to assist them on their way Zion ward
or whether a different feeling was not more prevalent among the member’s
addressed the young beautifully The Cornwall people want to have their Q M
set back again suppose they think they have rid themselves of the difficulty
and can get on without foreign aid a committee to consider the subject was
apt I beleive [sic] I told you Cousin Edmund had gone on business south
& West he was at last act at Chicago beleive [sic] he is on his homeward way
Stephen and Maria have lately been here Maria is very much interested in Free Produc [sic]
(and Stephen has been [consentious?] many years is [sic] ye know) were talking about Free good^s^
thinking strange about this one and that when in my plain way I asked S if it
was not inconsistent with their views and feelings to make their thousands
in trade at the South that years ago I was at Gideon Frosts he was dealing
in cotton goods extensively but with their food and raiment they were
particular not to partake of any but free produce and it seemed to me
to say the least very inconsistent &c &c &c they did not try to justify perhaps
they had not been told so plainly before Maria condemns Garrison severely
for not abstaining and encouraging others to do so and I wished more
particularly on that act to help her to see that some others are not
clear of inconsistencys [sic] perhaps it was not worth while to mentioned this
in this way but somehow my pen runs on with out much thought the first
thought which presents is put down Edward and Elizabeth Willis have been pre
-sented with two little girls on the 24 John and Elizabeth Valentine with one a
little before eleven years difference between their two children Mary Jane
and Amelia Post have made their Westbury friends a visit recently expect
to return home before long We too have had much windy cold weather
freezing almost every night but the last two days have been warmer and
damp and grain and grass alter their appearance rapidly the buds too
swell and give increased evidence that Spring is really here our men have
commenced to day planting corn and farmers are speaking of having much to do
(Page 4)
Isaac speaks of going to George Willets instead of the meeting house on first
day I must confess I was a little supprised [sic] that you should leave the meeting you
have prized so highly I now recollect you have not spoken of it lately can it be
possible that has been given up you have never informed us of it if it has
I hope you will hold fast to the good and the true – perhaps you will excuse
me for saying the more I hear [au] ^about^ the rapping manifestation the less confidence
I feel in it as an agency from the spiritual state and the greater my hope
it will be left and our reliance placed wholly on God a portion of whose
spirit burns within us few indeed realize how happy it is possible to
become on earth by this intimate communion with the Father of our spirit^s^
heaven is indeed around and within us and many of my most hallowing
feelings ^[I]^ have been alone with nature, in the early morning when bird insect
and flowers [all] send up [the] homage and joyful fragrance to the author
of all their praise and thanksgiving have assended [sic] from the tablet of my
soul for his unspeakable gift that unfaithful and disobedient as I have
been still I am blessed with a portion of it and am not dependant [sic] on any
human being for this enjoyment but enough I did not mean to give a sermon
I will lay this aside and visit our school I have not been over in some time
and perhaps I can write when I return First day on my return from the school
we had company so I did not resume my pen have been to meeting Henry Edmund
and Catharine were at meeting have gone to Isaac’s will come here to tea on
third day we hope to meet William and Mary it is one of the greatest pleasur^es^
this mingling together in social intercourse would that we might oftener
enjoy such feasts I do ever regret our wide separation it would be so delight-
ful to have you here are you not rich enough to come back to Westbury
and enjoy life in its quietude a hearty welcom [sic] would be yours should
you do so Hannah Willets widow of Richard died in Phil some 3 weeks ago
was brought on and buried at Jericho – Rowland Mitchel and family expect
to leave Cincinnati and settle in NY Aunt Mary and family are delighted
with the prospect D[r?]’s health is better has been rather poor for months some
time ago they had an escape from fire they thought it took from the furnace
succeeded in putting it out but caused them much trouble removed all
the furniture from the house which was not a little dirtied and wet by
the super abundance of water pored [sic] on the fire (the house I mean)
Uncle John’s eye does not improve much he and aunt Sarah are now in NY
he goes down every week he gets almost discouraged Brother Stephen
has something coming over his eye so the [sic] he does not see much with it Lydia
Hicks has been quite poorly several days with a very sore hand it broke this morn
-ing and is now more comfortable Ruth too has had a felon which is [alas] better
well I have got to the bottom of my page must leave writing more at pres
-ent and attend to some things before they come write soon but besure [sic] and come
if you can love to Sarah and the boys truly and affectionately your Mary –
(Page 5)
Here it is the 10 and my messenger
remains in the drawr [sic] I meant to have
been quite prompt but forgot to send it
to the office when I finished it and since
I have felt as though it was not worth
the sending so it has not gone I bele-
ve [sic] our friends and neighbors are quite
pleased to have us home again they
have manifested quite a friendly dis
-position have had company daily xce
-pt [sic] yesterday which we employed
went to Jericho made Uncle Jacob
and aunt Mary a visit of two hours
then to fathers each had many
questions to ask relative to each of
you and also of the rapping
(Page 6)
whether we had made any disco
-very of the cause &c &c John and
Rebecca came John would enjoy an
opportunity of witnessing these thin
-gs very much I should quite like
them all to as a discription [sic] fails
to convey much of an idea let it pr
-oceed from what cause it may
Nicholas Halloe is expected to be
at Jericho meeting on first day
suppose the quiet of some will be
disturbed by it or rather id he speaks
which no doubt he will Joseph
has gone to the city our milk bus
(Page 7)
siness [sic] is rather dull milk so plenty
and money so scarce have had to
make butter some since getting
home for want of can’s to send it in
First day afternoon company and other
causes prevented my completing this on
the tenth so I really ‘dont know when’
it will reach you unless we send it
This is a bright beautiful day almost
spring like the glorious king of day shine^s^
so brightly that new life seems to invigo
rate all animate beings from man down
to the few birds and flies which linger am
ong us each manifest their joy according
to their capacities but here comes Uncle James
and inquires how home seems whether we are
satisfied with it and is
(Page 8)
talking as fast as he can Jacob came up
yesterday we went to Isaac Rushmores
and Jacob with us he has now stept [sic] out
and I presume has gone down to Mary
he and I staid [sic] home from meeting our
Irish people are away to day Jacob read
David Copperfield by Dickens have you
read it there are many laughable scenes
described Suppose you know long ere
this the poor slave man is sent off from
New York how terrible to think of the mis
-ery and despair this diabolical law infli
-cts on the victims of it How many can
say with [lawper?] My ear is [famed?] My soul is
sick with every days repor [sic] of wrong and out
-rage with which earth is filled Evening
Edmund came back with Jacob each have
now gone to their respective home’s Joseph
and self are waiting for Cynthia she is at Joshua’s
Martha has a little party Silas has a very
sore neck a carbuncle been nearly two weeks
and there is no prospect of its breaking has to
sit up nearly all night for several of the last
he went home 7 day come back this afternoon
said he heard they had a large meeting that
Nicholas and some one else spoke after which
Henry Titus commenced when all went out befo [sic]
he got through suppose they broke up the
meeting E Post said Rachel thinks the colored
people had better keep their dollar than take the Star
(Page 1)
[Privite?] ) I went up to see Leah put her sleep to see Elias Hicks
but without saying what I wished to enquire about of course
she soon asked me ^after I spoke of him^ wither [sic] he was tall with a long neck &
She talked about him very freely and apparently with him
I told her some of ^us^ thought him almost equal to Jesus Christ
she said she was almost the^re^ she felt of her head & shewed [sic]
where Jesus head was different from Elias. thought him
Jesus in two points before him one error of E Hicks
was he put the scriptures to [sic] much in the place of God
signified his Ideas in regard to the Jewish wars was
incorrect as tho he excused the Jews for saying
god commanded wars that he never did. & he ^Elias^ was to [sic]
much of a Sectarian to [sic] exclusive he now says
the right way would be to meet perfectly free-
each old & yong [sic] feel free to speak of the gods they feel
without instruction & recommend living in Love &c
it was truly instructing to hear her. said in these
two particulars Jesus was before Elias but the
latter to [sic] would have given up his life for his prin-
cipals [sic]. Said she saw thee talking with some large
man it looked like my brother and Elias Hicks
was with thee helping thee talk with ^him^ said thy spi-
rituality was large & by using it would increase
I wish I could have written out what she said but
I could not. On asking if he had any thing more
to communicate she seemed to hesitate then asked
if his name was Kirby I said Jacob Kirby. oh yes
she said he says he will soon be with me & that she
did not mean a few days. I should think. but that
at the end he would be admitted in his man-
tion [sic] or company or whatever we may call it. I talked
of other things some but as she had so much to do it seemed
time to awake hr [sic] I ask her if it was ^time^ to awake her she
said after thee comes come it would be well for her to
come to our house and then about 3 times a week &
then write down what may be communicated
I turned her attention to the comming [sic] meeting at
Waterloo wither [sic] it would be best for me to go she said
there were those that would be glad to see me there she
thought some Good would grow out of the
meeting but not much at present
(Page 2)
^present^ but it looked to her that my attention would be required
at home. or that I should ^be^ needed I then requested to her to awake
feeling well she seemed to feel quite rested now I must go
to tea She said she saw it very bright about George Willet
thought things would soon be right with him & I went
over to George, some day [sic] ago he had not been to
the store as much as usual I went to see if he was
sick he was not at home & poor Ann felt bad
enough I asked if George was sick she said no
only his mind but she thought he had [gon?]
to our store I think he has felt better ever
since he attends to the Cars every time they
come in quite a relief to me but from what
Leah says it would see he will not stay
long with us What I mean by Such is I went [thr?]
to read first and see wither [sic] certain parts or pieces had
best be read to others I hear is thee what to do with my
scralls after reading of course they are to be free to
Sarah Edmund though by staying in N York Sixth
day night he could not do buisness [sic] in Albany first
therefore if he did not come from N York when he did
he would have to remain untill [sic] First day night or
2nd day he therfor [sic] concluded to do or he did rather than
wait as long however I think I should have reasoned
differently Henry Cook was buried yesterday he had been
failing for some time past Jacob one of the bearers
This is now first day & a delightfull [sic] day summer
like I went to Lewis Burtis this morning Sarah
has very much recruited meeting quite full had
very wordy preacher exortation [sic] from professer [sic]
Lewis he adverted to his tryals [sic] and to some, adm
inistering comforts to him in friendless situations
he longed to have sectarian disunities done
away and Love to fill their places &c E D [Grummond?]
seems recruiting they have a nice team of boys
and a snow covered wagon to go their Journey
it [sic] there [sic] healths are good it looks as tho they may
have a comfortable time I
hope they will
(Page 1)
Jericho 10th 21st. 1849
Esteemed Brother and Sister
It is now first day morning and
our folks are fixing for Meeting, I have not been for several months, but I am in hopes of being able to go soon, –
as I think I am mending but verry [sic] slowley [sic] thure [sic] is
but verry [sic] little at our Meetings that would be interesting
to Rochester folks, for our Meetings are Genarly [sic] silent
and that would not suit Rochester folks for I think
[for I think] they like, singing praying preaching and
talking or any thing in preference to silent meetings,
altho [sic] our Meetings are mostley [sic] silent they are not always
so for our cousin Robert Seaman has of late appeared
several times in publick [sic], and Henry Willis says he thinks
that Robert is on the right track and he intends to take
charge of him himself and to keep him right he thinks
yong [sic] ministers have often been neglected and he says he
intends to ^take^ Robert under his particular care and not trust
him to [be open to be] the Elders, I seem to have but
verry [sic] little to say at present but I have cut a pece [sic]
from the Journal of Commerce, and intend to enclose
in this letter it is for Amy particular benefit and
I wish he [sic] to read it carefuly [sic] and preserve it with much care,
and some times have the family all collected (and get in the
[quiet?] if that is posable [sic]) and have it read in the haring [sic] of
all; for I approve of most of the sentiments therein
expresed [sic], Willet and Matild J was her [sic] last evening and say
(Page 2)
that Father and Mother are as will [sic] as usual, I [allo]
take a piese [sic] from the Hempstead paper and send to
Jacob giving an account of the fair in Queens County
so that If he wants to see fire house he may
know where to come, I supose [sic] you recollect that Henry
Titus at Jerusalem commenced preaching some time ago
and was requested by the Elders to stop speaking in Publick [sic]
which advise offended him verry [sic] much, and he stoped [sic] going
to to [sic] meeting for a numbe [sic] of months he has at length
commenced going to Meeting and preaching again. our abolitio
ests [sic] dislike having Henry stoped [sic] preaching they said that the
Elders where [sic] interfearg [sic] with Henrys duty for they considered
him one of the best of preachers but how they will get
along with him now, I do not know, but I believe it is verry [sic]
difficult for a [seal?] hot abolitionest [sic] to say or do any thing
that theese [sic] brother abolitionist will not justify there in.
Henry Tirus lives with his son, Sylvanus Titus who
has lately had a Daughter married and in the evening
(I believe ^the^ wedding [duty?] was collected) some misctevous [sic]
boys collected around the house and made a great noise
which offended Henry verry [sic] much so much so that he took
his gun and went out to shoot them but as his gun was
an old musket she misfired but he snaped [sic] several times
at them bit fortuneately [sic] for the boys he did not get his
gun off If he had in all probility [sic] he would kiled [sic] one
or more of them. – now for a White man to shoote [sic] a
runaway slave is horrable [sic] and he ought to be sent to the
Devil fourth with [sic], but for a real Abolitiones [sic] to shoot
white boys because they make a noise around the house
is allegeathe [sic] a different thing for the boys might have
[hiped?] a way, Respectfuly [sic] yours, J. Willis
[Rest of letter transcribed as letter 763]
(Page 1)
Pay F. Duglass [sic] 2$ for Stephen Rushmore ^for the North Stare [sic]^ and charge to my account
I beleive [sic] J and L Mott were not in Ohio last fall [J?] P
so I am mistaken First day eve the 10 of 6 moth
Our dear Isaac and Amy This day is nearly spent and with the shades
of evening has come a feeling of loneliness stealing over my spirit as I sat
musing on the past and present as thought followed thought in rapid succ
-ession in some of which you were mingled most lovingly and sweetly has
my heard encircled you in that feeling which time cannot destroy nor distan^ce^
change – I need scarcely say how sadly we were disappointed and yet
I must else you may not realize to the full the extent thereof – We heard
you went to Boston on second day night but of no other conclusion Joseph and
self went to New York on fourth day on sixth day afternoon we got in the car’s
to return home and were looking about for seats in the distance I espied
Matilda we hastened to them I looked around for Amy but no where could
I see her and on enquiring found to our supprise [sic] and disappointment the
fact that our visit was finished and it had been so very short too I
could not but regret it I had been anticipating days of enjoyment in
reserve for us and to be thus suddenly deprived of the expectation was
not pleasant and it was difficult to be reconciled to it – for Isaac^s^
information will say that Amy’s company and communications
were acceptable and edifying tending to stir up to more zeal and faith
fullness in the several departments spoken of I trust her labors would
have ^been^ even more effectual had she been accompanied by her fellow
laborer and keeper in the same good cause. – Sarah remains at
Jericho hope she will come and stay with us soon – We have been pleased
with the account of the N England convention and think it must have
been exceedingly interesting and doubt not Amy feels fully repaid
for going I beleive [sic] it is good to do so when practicable and pledge
[anew] ^ourselves^ [our] anew to labor and suffer whatever a faithful discharge
of duty may bring upon us I feel that it is little yes a very little that
I can do but then if the giving a cup of cold water only in the name of a dicipl [sic]
(Page 2)
shall in no wise [lose?] their reward it is encouraging to such to do what we
can little tho [sic] it be to hasten the day when liberty shall be proclaimed through all
the land to all the inhabitants thereof” Stephen and Abby are in our borders Abby came
first we have not seen them yet they are at Jerusalem to day, it did not seem to
be best to go – on third day evening they are to be at Hempstead shall if practicable
go I will now leave for the morrow and listen to Joseph who has come in and taken
up our favourite paper “The glorious old Liberator” to read again so farewell for to night
Second day I resume my pen agreeably to my intention yesterday but without feeling
much like writing, Henry Willis dined here and has just gone home brought Sarah and
Catharine who are at Isaac Rushmores Henry went to Oyster bay seventh day evening
and Stephen and Abby home with him then to Jerusalem next day appears much inter
-ested with them they attended meeting in the morning at which Stephen preached
(Henry said) the gospel – in the afternoon they had an interesting meeting also –
[Whithead?] feels as though it was wrong to have the meeting house used and I
expect he will open the grievance to the monthly meeting for strength and assis
-tance to have it closed in future against abolitionists time will show whether
proscription and intolerance are to bear rule at Jerusalem also I tell our friends
their proffession [sic] of christianity [sic] is of small account so long as they bar the doors
of meeting houses against the slave and his advocates for the real kind of christian
-ity [sic] would induce them to do unto others what they would have done unto themselves
I am right sick of so much profession of being the peculiar favorites of heaven and of
bearing so consistent a testimony against all war slavery and intemperance
when we see no fruits I must judge by the rule given and conclude the tree can
not be what it appears – As I said before we went to New York on fourth day
I confess I felt very inclination to go but having some things to get and Josephs
desiring it I went and I do not regret having done so not from any satisfaction
or encouragement received but solely to see and feel for myself how things are
you will probably hear what an excellent Y M it was so much harmony and
love and the overshadowing wing of heavenly goodness so constantly felt to be
over the meeting &c &c true there was little to call forth or excite discussio^n^
or mar the harmony but why was it so have they not excommunicated denounce^ed^
and driven from society nearly all who do not submit quietly and was it
not more attributable to that than to any special favor that harmony
appeared to prevail? I was as fully convinced as I could be that the
same spirit of bitterness unkindness uncharitableness [sic] and I was going to
say hypocrisy remained in all its hatefulness as have at any former time
appeared as I was there only a short time of course I can only speak of that –
on fifth say morning there were two essays of Epistles read one for Gennessee [sic] and
one for Ohio the one for Ohio was quite long and among other things spoke of
a disposition being very prevalent among us to doubt divine revelation and to
depend on reason for a guide &c &c and the spirit of unbeleif [sic] was spreading
to an alarming extent &c (at present I do not remember much but the above
is the idea it was quite a long paragraph spoke in it of George Fox how much
he depended on the light and recommended it at all times John Woolman
too in advocating the cause of the oppressed was concerned at all times to
mind the light and not move faster than that directed &c &c I thought
there must be some cause for these allusions but knew not then what it was
well this epistle was pronounced very good especially the above ideas Marga
-ret Brown spoke on it said she had heard the modern reformers quote John Woolman
as an example and I tell them show me your John Woolmans and they cannot
I thought she would be puzzled to find any among friends except such as Lucretia
and they are as he was condemned by the majority but like him in the future
they will be praised for their consistency it is true as it was long ago the same
disposition to garnish the sepulchres ^or the memory^ of the righteous but persecute those who are
sent unto us but I have got off my story in the afternoon we were informed
that way had not opened to address the other Yearly meetings and proposed
this one should be sent to the other three which was approved of them
(Page 3)
the clerk said it had been proposed that the one received from Ohio should
not be transmitted to subordinate meetings Rachel Barker spoke well
in favor of its going down with the others altho [sic] it touched on subjects
which had been exciting she felt no fear of its doing any harm but there
might be harm done to suppress it several approved its going then came
Rachel Hicks to the rescue said she could not approve its transmission
she would greatly prefer that none should go than have that go sanc
-tioned by this meeting containing as it did sentiments she could
not approve she beleived [sic] the meeting which sent it could
not have understood it or it would not have sent it &c &c after
quite a discussion R Barker wished it read again – my curiosity was
quite excited and was of course glad to hear this obnoxious docume^nt^
and just as I expected it was excellent and I could understand the several
allusions made in the reply It spoke of George Fox and early friends
bearing faithful testimonys [sic] against the evils that abounded in their
time then of John Woolman who labored for the oppressed indefata
gably [sic] through opposition and difficulty and finally said there are still
30000 of our fellow beings in chains and what are we doing to break
the chain which binds them to their civil servitude and which is far [obliterated]
than Egyptian bondage &c then spoke of intemperance and war in
a similar way and urged friends to do their part in suppressi^ng^
these great evils said the eulogizing the faithfulness of our ances
-tors in bearing the testimonys [sic] they did would not avail us
but would be as the manner of yesterday and counselled an att
-ention to the light which would direct and altho [sic] it might lead into
some changes which might be viewed as inovations [sic] on our long established
customs and views and as Elias Hicks truly said but I forget the
quotation exactly so will not give it I was much pleased with it it
was so much better than I expected could come from any meeting of
the kind – well some wished it to be printed and some not but Rachel
Barker spoke in submission and perhaps it had better not go as friends felt
R Hicks did not appear submissive Catharine Keese was decided against our
printing some and suppressing others it was raising a barrier between
(Page 4)
and our Ohio friends which we would regret but Deborah W Larton seemed to
settle the point by saying that she was supprised [sic] at what she saw that in her YM
they sometimes sent down one Epistle sometimes all and at others only extracts and
they had never felt there was any disrespect in it but in the liberty which the truth
gives had felt freedom to do so – have heard ^of^ its ^being^ spoken of out of meeting as
being a lifeless thing that they did not beleive [sic] it was written by the meeting
and more of the same sort and it did not seem to me why it was they were this
suspicious until this minute and now it is clear to me James and Lucretia
were at that meeting I beleive [sic] and I suppose they or their influence or
sentiments [which] caused such a lifeless production to be sent to the ap
-earance [sic] of an epistle too it is almost to much to think of –
Catharine Keese spoke on slavery feelingly said she felt that she stood
alone on this subject that there was no organization she could unite with
on this subject spoke well on the use of the produce – as soon as she took
her seat the attention of the meeting was called off by some other union
sentinel to ward off all attacks on the citadel for fear perchance it
may disturb the quiet – Catharine will either go to them or come on
further I think the intolerance will compl [sic] her to it they say she has
manifested a fault finding disposition. I do not perceive it in the least but
[Text upside down, bottom of page]
thought she seemed very sweet and peaceful – but fear Samuel is lossing [sic] his
zeal whether through her quieting influence or from some other cause but
I fear it is so for those who once opposed him now speak quite favorably
and say he has improved and if he only improves in proportion as he has
for the last two years he will be about right hence I fear – I wanted
to see him but did not at all and would have said to him that when
our opposers [sic] speak well of us it is time to examine what we have done
(Page 3)
[Text upside-down, in margins of original text. Near blue wax seal]
My paper is full and my eyes warn me I must leave off as I can scarcely
[obliterated] but I have made so long a story about my Yearly Meeting that I have not
said all I would like to and I might take another piece of paper I had
not thought of that
(Page 4)
[Text sideways, center of page]
North Hempstead 10
June 12th
Isaac Post
Rochester
New York
(Page 1)
Rochester June 3[rd?] 1849
Dear Sister
Recvd [sic] a Letter from Amy day before
yesterday Dated Boston & as she does not make
her appearance which she might have done had she
have come home soon after the Boston Meetings
I am apprehensive she returend with Willett & Matilda
to Long Island or possibly she may have stoped [sic] at Waterloo
tho she said nothing about it in her letter she had written
in great haste evidently. Shall be glad to welco-
me thee & Aunt Phebe as soon as you can
feel ready to come was quite disappointed to find
Amy had left thee indeed I had no expe-
ctation that Amy would feel such a wish
to go to Boston as must have been the case
I hope thee has had a good visit with Elisabeth
and your dear Father & Mother I wish they
could feel like coming with you and spend
6 Months or a year with us we would gladly
give up our bedroom to them. Bridget has
been quite unwell for two or three day past but
has gone out this afternoon Willie has been
to our house to day to dinner seemed as well
and as hapy [sic] as ever. Joseph Dugdale & wife
were at our house fifth day night they seem
as good as ever had Samanthy Wight
the same time & Harriet felt quite talkative
I presume ther [sic] visit was at least satisfactory to
(Page 2)
them & to us interesting they went in to Junious [sic]
Meeting I expect we shall have a visit from
them on there [sic] return when I hope thee & Aunt
Phebe will be hear [sic] to enjoy ther [sic] company _
Last evening we had one of the most terific [sic]
Thunder storms that I ever witnessed the
lightning streamed almost incesently [sic] & the
Thunder roared so that I believe every one
felt thrills of horror run through them
two houses were somewhat shattered on our
Street a little south of Hubbells -- the inmates
much frightened but not Injured. I hear ano-
ther fared the same fate on hill street and
it is said Judge Buells house about one
mile west is very much torn to pieces
but I have heard of no one Injured To
day it is mild a very growing time for vegi-
tation. [sic] I omited [sic] to say at the proper place the
rain fell in such torents [sic] that the streets
were more ponded than I ever saw
them Our friends a number of them have
gone to Junious [sic] I have had several Invi-
tations [sic] to accompany them that is ^a^ seat offerd [sic]
but I did not think best to go — We are expecting Green
of Greens Express here to morrow [sic] shall like to see
him. & we are thinking of hiring an adjoining
Store the one that fronts next to Irving ent-
rance the back end of our store butts against
it by makeing [sic] a door we can have room
enough for all our things & perhaps for more
I think we shall put the Sign of Greens Express
at the North door it will be one door West of
the Irving Entrance I am saying this to appologise [sic] for not going
(Page 1)
Rochester May 19th 1849
Deaar [sic] Amy thine from Glen Cove was
recived [sic] this morning it would be to [sic] tame to say it was
welcome so I will try to say something else in regard to
the sugar I think we can get that that Giles left at
less cost than to get at N.Y. and less trouble there-
fore I think thee had better leave it. The [sic] wished to know
about Greens Express. Greens Express No7 Wall-
Street near Broadway. I think it will be much
better to send baggage by Rail Express then quite
charge is light to us besure [sic] and send them to the
right Office Wells Office is across the Street from
Greens Office. F Douglas[sic] Came home last
2nd Day I now recollect now of having written about
it the other day. Last evening Frederik [sic] and the
Girls were to Williams they with John Dick had
been down to the Lower Falls on foot They ar [sic]
real ramblers and come to have a chance to find
them ^out^ the oldest is talented beyond common it was
quite interesting to hear her and F D. talk They
hapened [sic] to get talking about Adventism the Question
was asked if Geret [sic] Smith had become a convert F. would
be sorry if he had she did not see that should
be regretted for some of the best or many of the best
and learned of Episcopalians were of that view which
led to quite an argument I wish F.D. would
treat all that differ [sic] with him in bublic [sic] as
kindly as he did her it seemes [sic] to me he would
gain more They gave a very interesting acount [sic]
(Page 2)
of ther [sic] evening meeting in New York. It seems
they are going to set out for Philadelphia in
a few days previous to ther [sic] going to Boston
I dont see as he will have any time to have
his examination with William & Edmund
before he goes William feels well having
sold a large quantiy [sic] of wool lately I believe they
had 30 or 40,000 lb in hand as sheerring [sic] time was so
near they were very anxious to sell and
have for a very fair advance. Some man
I dont know his name says he was at Thomas Hallowell
yesterday that WIlliam Ketchum [sic] arrived there yesterday
in the forenoon I beleive [sic] all were well. I dont feel
but very little draft toward Boston I dont feel as tho
I should enjoy myself there as well as at home & I see
not that I should do others any good that is in a public
capacity [We?] had made calculation to have F
at our meeting tomorrow but understand he
has a meeting appointed out in West Walworth
tomorrow I believe the sisters are to accompany
him. fifth day evening William Mary & E
P Willis went to see them I believe it was 4
day eve & to day [sic] I think they have been
to Elias De Garmo I wish R Hicks could
some how [sic] beome [sic] regenerated and see things
as they really are and no longer act as an Angel
of Light (to some) while she is doing the works
of Darkness. how hapy [sic] she would be if
she would let in the pure light to shine in
her her [sic] heart what a burthen would fall
from her and then she would go in her way
rejoicing encouraging her fellow heirs to
immortality in every good word and work
and be prepared for a high montain [sic] in the
spiritual state for I bilieve [sic] she has fine talents
committed to her care and set out and run
well for a season & then like the apostle told the
Lord she saw other casting out Devels [sic] in They [sic] name and I forbid
[Continued upward in right margin]
them because they follow not with us how exactly her case
(Page 3)
First day afternoon I went as I expected home with
L Burtis Sarah is quite weak but moves around slowly
there [sic] trees show an abundance of blossoms it is won-
derfull [sic] how very much they have grown only
think 3 years ago the little whips of trees were set out
and now it looks as tho they may have hundreds of
bushels of Peaches. & cherries Plumbs [sic] Apricots
Apricots ^Quinces^ Nectrons [sic] currents [sic] Goosberries [sic] Rasberries [sic]
& Apple in considerable quantities & Grapes & an ab-
undance of Strawberries. and beside his grounds are
finely prepared for gardening operations has planted
his corn & potatoes. this morning came in & stoped
became rainy Lewis came on to our house be-
fore Meeting I of course rode with him--I called
at the store & Edmund handed thy letter I went
to the Room & as it continued rainy & but few
came I read it was very much interested in
its contents I was in hopes something would
have appeard [sic] to have made something look
encourageing [sic] in regard to the Star but did
not find find [sic] it I suppose [Ward?] feels very anxious
about the paper he is concernd [sic] in what work
Jealousy Sectarianism and Envy does make with
otherwise bright & Good Men as exibited [sic] in [their?]
account of the Coloured Meeting I feel sorry that
it ended so tumultuously I dont know but NY
was filled with Mob or unruly spirits
(Page 4)
our numbers at meeting was quite small so
rainy Elias & Rhoda were ther [sic] as you may
suppose they have gained some still Elias looks
feeble I hope he will not take cold being out in
the rain to day. when we came home found Willie
he is quite well ate a hasty dinner & was soon ready
to go back biding [sic] us goodby [sic] &c you did not
say when you were going up on the Island
but I suppose yesterday nor any thing about
Aunt Phebe coming home with you how
is that I thought that was her fixed intention
did you frighten her with your talk about eating
with coloured persons so that she will not like to
come I think she would not be troubled long for
I wish our family all behaved as well ^as^ Harriet
for I dont believe she would object sleeping with
her after three days acquaintance it is now
half past [4?] Harriet has gone with Dorcas [Collins?]
to see Frances Bridget is Kindling fire Jacob
up stairs with Robert De Garmo Joseph siting [sic]
by me just been talking about going west
begins to feel quite like a journeyman --
[Printer?] sends his respects to you & other Friends
It has cleared away quite fine. John [Nurn?]
has not been here to do day I suppose he
is with his wife and it was so rainy that
no one was down from Asa Anthonys
I believe Griffin & wife expect to live at
Elias De Garmo while they are away ----
(Page 1)
Jericho 1st Mo 12th 1849
I was highly delighted with thy
letter brother Isaac written some weeks since, which
I fully intended to have replied to long before this, but
the disposition to put off for a qualification pre
vailing, has robbed me of what little I then had in
store. I think this is but seldom a better time
than when the letter is received. thee expressed a
wish to hear from John Plummer after his return
he has quite recently arrived after an absense [sic] of
6 weeks I think, he went into Virginia as far
as their [sic] were any friends and meetings being remote
that it took more time than he anticipated, he
sais[sic] Slavery is death to all enterprize [sic] ^there^ they have
no bridges over the streams ^and rivers^ of water so that at one
time he and a friend being travelling in a Car
riage and coming to a river the it was to [sic] high
to cross with the waggon [sic]and they could not cross
over, but John inquired the distance to the
nearest friends house? the answer was ten miles.
he then said I will take off my over coat and
go on foot. A drover being in waiting also
with cattle said to him take my horse and
leave him at the Friends house untill [sic] I come
and insisted on his taking him, but J … commenced
his journey on foot and alone about fifteen minutes
before 3 P.M. and pursued his course over the –
[Continues on page 2 beginning “mountain and arrived”]
[Text left margin running top to bottom]
have you heard of Thomas Wrights death of [Hudson?] and that Jacob Willets son of Joseph seems on
the decline by the suffering of those [sores] called scrofula and scurvy
[Text top margin inverted]
If this does not [tire?] thy patience
too much I hope for a contin
uation it is indeed desirable
to hear often from you
(Page 2)
mountain and arrived to the destined place a little
after five, with a shirt wet to his back but recieving [sic]
a hearty welcome that he got before bed time [illegible]
and felt ready nesct [sic] morning to pursue his journey
twenty miles to the meeting accompanied and taken
by his friend where he lodged, he sais [sic] many Slaveholders
are convinced of the injustice [obliterated] of ^slavery^ he had a meeting
among them in a court-house very many assembled
filling the house and a great many colored ones came
also many more than could get in the house, he
looked over the mul multitude as they sat stair
=ing [sic] him in the face, for they seemed as if they would
stare a man out of countenance, he said a thought
presented what will be the consequence. however after
a time he felt something to communicate and they
became quiet so that they might almost have heard
a pin fall on the flour [sic]. the colored people are nearly
all very light color he saw only four or five of a dark hue
among them, he went to see Rebecca [Naushurst?] Sons
they are settled on a large farm of 400 hundred acres with two
dwelling houses on it one of log and the other a frame
building each of which they inhabit and are situated
about 18 miles from Washington he sais[sic] the land is good and
there are a number of farms for sale in those parts which
he considers may be bought cheap. he gives an interesting
history much more than ^I can^ give thee an idea of. he has not returned
his [minute?] yet. but as the subject has taken up much of the
paper I must leave it to make room for something subjects
Judith Fleet died a week ago have lived to the advanced age of 85 years
(Page 3)
four of which she has sat up in which position she quietly
ceased to breath [sic] while her son James and Daniels new wife
were sitting by her on percieiving [sic]a little change of breathing
they took the candle to her and percieved [sic]it to be the last breath.
two days after a meeting of friends was held at their house
in which Rachel Hicks bore testimony. but of which we
did not witness, it being on meeting day and as we had sat with
the family the day previous to it we felt esccused [sic], it was an exceed
=ing rainy time. On seventh day last the remains of Sam
=uel Leggett of Whitestone was committed to the grave which
was very sudden news to us. he had inflamation [sic] of the lungs
on third day evening seemed more unwell and about ten
O Clock he died very unescpected [sic] to the family and thus he is
gone while aunt Esther Lawrence yet remains very gradual
declining. Joseph sits by me a talking about brother George
who is on a visit to NY and he thinks he will be up here soon
as it is snowing nicely and has been during the night so that
their [sic] is a prospect of sleighing. We think from appearances we
shall loose [sic] J ….. after a while by his frequent visits to West=
bury. A. E Thurston sais [sic] in a letter to me “that we hear report
about your present Joseph relative to matrimony, perhaps
he may settle himself in that line much sooner than his
namesake and predecessor, and to get a Westbury girl too
he will evince his good judgment, and reap the benefit
of it also.”-- Father Kirby’s leg and ankle looks better the
swelling is considerably abated, but the pain and distress in
the bottom of his foot continues to trouble him he walks but
little and poorly otherwise he seems well with the escception [sic]
of a cold. he goes out but little sometimes a pleasant day he gets out to
(Page 4)
[Text normal top margin]
meeting and he and mother went to see cousin Isaac [Downey?]
on a cold day and on frozen ground but they returned safely
they found him very poorly but pleased to see them and
said he had been thinking that he should never see them
again. I felt rejoiced that they had been although if I
had known of their prospect I should have feard [sic] the under
taking. mother seems active and in usual health with the esception [sic] of cold
[Text middle running bottom to top]
Jericho N.Y.
Jan 12th
Isaac Post
Rochester
Monroe County N.Y.
[Text bottom margin inverted]
Although out of place and but little room T… [Pleasants?] of Virginia sais[sic] in
reply to G. Frost on the subject of friends emigrating to Virginia who is adverse
to it. ”that of all the northern people, friends [profess?] more of the
confidence of Slaveholders than any other class; more even than
the” northern men of with Southern feelings”. no room for man brother
Henrys family ^are^ nearly as usual in regard to health. how are my sisters
and what engages their particular attention so entirely that they do
not feel inclined to write to us sister E.. Mott has been to fathers [sic] the
past two weeks engaged in quilting. with much love and affection for
all as if named I remain MWW.
(Page 1)
Jercho [sic] 8 of 9th month 1848 plaes [sic] date
yours
Dear Children
perhaps the time never seam’d longer to me
that we did not here [sic] from you than the past three months only one
letter from you; but yesterday it was announced here is a letter
I heard of the hard time of thy knee being out now I desire the [sic] to try
a bandige [sic] around it for it will be weak I expect as my wrist is
I cant [sic] go without one, this morning my JK has pounded my remedy
as it is yet very weak at times sharp darting pain. I have applide [sic]
the wite [sic] of an egg with one table spoonfull [sic] of cold water beat to a good
froth bound tight on, ^spred [sic]on a cotton [ball?]^ I desire the [sic] to remember it for a fresh sprain
it gave me relief, but did not [heal?] it for several weeks after my [illegible]
hurt, I am very glad to here [sic] of dear Willet’s walking I feard [sic] his back
was weak. as to spreading the report aluded [sic] to I can say
I never have mentiond [sic] it to no one. but my only Sister E and said to
her the [sic] nead [sic] not mentione [sic] it till [sic] the [sic] heres [sic] it other ways, and I have
admired that I have not been asked more times respecting it.
John [Kectham’s ?] letter to his family spred [sic] the information and Anna [Jeffeys?]
was here and asked the question I replied to her we have had some reason
to think so-- was all my annswer [sic] and I believe to only one other person
abought [sic] the same. I accept the causion [sic] good or well and intend to observe
it, altho [sic] I concider [sic] it very weak in them, and feel sorry for the party
concernd [sic] and hope they will not be over much troubled. it is exceed
-ingly desirably [sic] to have the love and unity & good feeling kept up
and I rejoice that I can say I believe I have acted prudently, except
I may have communicated some to you my endered [sic] daughters that
has showd [sic] my weaknes [sic], and hoped you would cover it with the
mantil [sic] of C^ h^arity -- as much as I have longed to see Sarah I am very glad
she did not set out alone to come, I feel that I should hardly enjoy her to
come and go alone, my hand is tired I will rest for the day
(Page 2)
second day the 11 yesterday we had the company our children E & MR
Kirby, E Mott & two children all in health E left her Father and Phebe
to Stephens & He we found she & the children when we returned from meet
=ing Phebe seamd [sic] pleasant & said to Matilda [Eliza?] had made out very well
& E said she did get along very well, and, ^she^ was very glad to ^[see?]^ Phebe altho all
went on smothly [sic] with father and all, she said she bakes 30 loves [sic]of bread
in one week, but she was well and seams [sic] very cheerfull [sic]. J & Mary Post here
a week past, I exprest [sic] my anxiety in not hering [sic] from you to them, yesterday by
E they sent us Isaac last letter to them, how kind. I felt it so Stephen Rus
=more very poorly a week past-- with a gatheren [sic] low down on the back bone.
I expect he does suffer much, his daughters I. Hicks & Mary R both their [sic]-- we
here [sic] the Dr Fredrick conciders [sic] him in a critical state we have not been to see
him, we here[sic] often-- and I do feel more fearful to ride than formaly. [sic]
but have been to meeting three times, and this morning- father and I
rode down to Vallentine’s, he had a very alarming turn of palpation [sic] of the
heart 3 days past so that they went for Dr. [illegible] in the night, but ere the [sic—they?}
arrived he was much relieved, this morning walked down stairs to see us
perty [sic] comfotaly [sic], did not see Abigail she had laid down, said her head was
so tired, appeared to feel no alarm or concern when he was so ill V sais [sic]
she is not as well as when they came up, their prospect now is soon to
move down to the [illegible] Phebe has been scik [sic] 3 weeks, yesterday she walk a few
steps, so they hope to down soon, our other neighbors in usual helth [sic] as far as
I know. Catherine W I have not seen, scince [sic] I have been out, herd [sic] lately of her
being to Wheatly on a visit and their [sic] told them that E and Sarah was a going
to be [married?], so its no privacy, my hand feels so weak it must rest
only see my pen has laid still two weeks today, M W Post said they had writen [sic] & C
Willis said Isaac was about; that I conclude you were not [fasting?] last week we
made a short but plesent [sic] visit to J. Mott’s all well ^their [sic] I saw Mary Post^ we expect E here to
cut & dry app^e^ls [sic] for herself. she has a clever coulard [sic] girle [sic] of 12 years and she
gets along nicely. Amy as respects my Nephew WW I here [sic] but little E Kirby said
he asked Andrew. he replied the last he heard of him he was up at Sing Sing
his wife at her brothers at Oyster bay or near [there?], its said he wanted her property cause
the separation [sic] believe it is thought but she keeps her own
(Page 3)
Stephen Rushmore yet confind [sic] to his bed we cald [sic] to see him on our return from
James then they thought it ready to open again it having been once
Lanced [sic] very deep, they had wrot [sic] for Jane Willets, thinking she mite[sic]
come with the[Shotwell’s ?] after the Death Joseph S Shotwell who requested
that the body should be deposited their, [sic] I called in to B. Underhills a few
days past Caroline looks cheerfull [sic] and pleasent [sic], she took me around. I saw no
lack of any thing the two east rooms [carpeted?] alike [ingrain?], [illegible] on
both the entrys [sic] it was carpeted all over- four rag ones I suspect the old
sideboard that yused [sic] to be at Samuels, in the common [sic], and handsom [sic] chairs
& sopha [sic] in the parlor ((she shows her situation plainly)). this morning I [saw?]
the callicho [sic] the [sic] gave to our Betty on a little boy two days old and she was
siting [sic] up and [look?] smart she seamd [sic] much pleasd [sic] with thy present
Betty only left us one week, now Matilda gets along alone, my help is
but very little, father & I together make our bed, and we get along [very?]
cheerfully _____ a nock [sic] at the door and who did I meet but Cousin
Deborah Underhill as used to be and her ^now^ Husband Samuel [Height ?] only
a pleasent[sic] call between 11 & 12 oclock I think they seam [sic] agreeably yoaked[sic]
& suitable for sise, [sic] his first visit to us but not hers. she informed us that
Cousin Anna Mott had returnd sic] from Providence to NY in comfortable
health---her Daughter Mary U Hicks at Westby her Robert has a
Parilices [sic] affiction [sic] speach [sic] conciderably [sic] impared [sic] & walks poorly with help
Lydia Seaman walks with help acoss [sic] the room, not one s^t^ep alone
but they say she does improve. not heard of Sister Phebe’s return
from Duches [sic] Co. I expect it is quite a tryal [sic] to Dr Sears to have V and
Abigail Hicks to live with him its thought they are rather oppressive on
him & he thinks it is greatly so on his Carolines health, but Phebe will
not have them their, [sic] & it unsetels [sic] [Cares?] [help?] too, but the dear little Dr
has to submit. --- it is some sickly around with the Desentey [sic} {Dysentery?]& fever but
none in our imediate [sic] neighborhood
(Page 4)
we noticed all the contents of your letters with much interest
and leave you to persue [sic] the way you think right for you
without any breach of friendship on my part. I have been
reading old writings of friends, in George Fox’s time there was
those who left friends and set up meetings by themselves but
they seamd [sic] to not continue long but di^e^d away ---I have heard
Henry Titus & Adam [Avery?] at Jeruslem [sic] has had meeting at their
houses on first day. but wether [sic] these do [continue?] not able to say
henry does not attend with us att [sic]all, so we too are in a sorrowful
state. perhaps the wherl-wind [sic]will pass by-- & and we may
settel [sic] in the right thing & way ere long
[Text in center of page]
Amy Post
Rochester
Monroe Co NY
[Text in bottom third]
the men are busy sowing wheat---but it is dry wether [sic] again we
had a very acceptable rain 10 or 12 days ago, the fields look brown
like winter, not one grape on the vine appels [sic] perty [sic] plenty
Oh what a long walk L. & May had my letter ^is^ of old date but
may add we are in usual health and love to all and every branch
of your family, and friends their [sic] 26 of 9 month
you [sic] Mother
(Page 1)
Jericho 3 M 5th 1848
Esteemed Brother and Sister
We have lately received an exceptable [sic]
letter from you ^thee^, althou I had prity [sic] much concluded to
write to you about a month ago, tha and give you some
account how things are getting on here, but the concern seemed
rather to cool off but after receiving one from Rochester it has
somewhat revived but not with ^that^ cleaness [sic] that I should like
but I am in hopes as I proceed things will print that may
gratify if nothing more, in the first place I will go back to
our Quarterly Meeting that was held in New York in first
month last, but I supose [sic] Meeting maters will be uninterest
ing to you, but I will mix a little Abolition without to make
it more palateable [sic], in the first place we had a pretty good
Meeting, Henry Ridgway a member of Crosswicks Monthly M
on New jersey a lovely interesting minutes, (reminded me some
of Stephen Tredwell,) he preached well on bouth [sic] days, he and
his companion put up at John A Wrights with us he is a
very interesting little man in conversation, John asked him many
questions in regard to ^his^ views on different subjects, and also the refers
that he had heard of him, at different times and Henry was very
free to give the whole history which was very interesting and
instructive, John observed he had heard at one time that he
(Kenny) had pretty much left the society of friends, had joined the
Abolitionist, Moral reform, and Temperance ^societies^ and was going
about lecturing on the different subjects, Henry admitted
that he had taken a prity [sic] active part in those things but
not to that extent that had been reported of him, he mentioned
that at one time he was attending and appointing meetings in
Pennsylvania and at one meeting he had appointe[sic] at friends M
house at a certain hour and thence being a number of Aboli
tionists belonging to that Meeting and Charles C Bubly being
in ^that^ rigion [sic] they had a meeting appointed for him at the same
time and place and unbeknown to Henry, Charles lectured
(Page 2)
and Henry preached and so the Meeting ended and it was
reported that he and Charles were going about lecturing on
abolition when he new nothing of Charles being there untill [sic]
he came in the meeting houses at an other time John said
he heard that Henry Ridgway was rather backing out from
taking such an active part in Abolition, moral reform and
[obliterated], and was coming back to the society of friends, Henry admitted
that what he had heard was nearly correct, that he had been
convinced that to be to active in these things would lead from
the truth, and he had to come out of them, although he was
in favour of abolition and of moral reform but he did not find it
his place to join those different societies, _________ in reading the
queries and answers, the answers in regard to attending places of
diversion came up clear from all the Monthly Meetings a friend
from the country said he could not see how New York friends society
answer the query clear for at every pace he visited in the city
they had acknowledge [sic] that yong [sic] friends in the city was in the
practice of attending places of musich [sic] and dancing which was
considered to by places of diversion and how friend could answ^er^
that query clear he could not see, the overseers I believe to a man
said they did not know of a single instance of a friend attending
a place of diversion and whenever they did they always reported it to the
quarterly meeting, I thought they wood[sic] soon have our country friend
floored, but he was backed by a friend of New York Meeting, and so
the subject droped [sic], but I learnt[sic] aftermeeting [sic] that country friends did
not understand what musick [sic] and dancing was, it appears that
yong [sic] friends are in the habbit of attending parties at friends houses
and will have a little good singing and some handsome musick [sic]
plyed[sic] by some of company on come nice instrument and step about
the room a little was not considered a place of diversion but
old fation [sic] country plays of selling pasons [sic] and kising [sic] the girls
and I expect William Hallowell will think that New York friends
are perty [sic] near right on that subject, as I believe he likes to hear
good singing himself. There was a committee appointed some months
ago that way opened to prepare a memorial for George D [Whla?]
and produce to a future meeting they produced to the monthly
(Page 3)
meeting last fourth day and is said to by [illegible] ^a^ good me
I supose [sic] it will come to our next quarterly meeting _________
in thy letter thee seames [sic] to think that friends rather stand in the
way of reform instead of advancing the good causes, now I think very
different, I suppose thee thinks because we dont go to abolition meetings
and temperance meetings and make a great Cheering and pass some
very strong resolutions and sing some abolition songs and temperance
songs and make a great harrowing we are doing nothing for the good
cause ferry differen [sic] I think, for I do beliefe [sic] that I do more my
self in advancing the cause of temperance ^than^ thee and Amy and Sarah
all put together I expect that you are not doing much but talking
and punishing your selves with drinking [illegible] water, now I go
and for the right use of these good things and not the abuse of any
thing, we have commenced cleaning our nice cider I hope it will
be verry [sic] fine so that the Newyorkers when they git[sic] it, they will
desferice [sic] with all distilled Liquor, which has been the case I
believe in several instances and more we make the more we
shal [sic] endeavor to spread the cause of temperance, this thee sees
is practical work something that can be seen not all mind _______
we hear that Mary Hallowell has been disowned for not attending
meetings. and that William has resigned his right, I do not know
that I can blame William for if friends where to disown my wife
I would resign my right at once
(Page 4)
Henry continued lame has 2 crutches but thinks he is gitting [sic] better
the smelling is pretty much gone out and the soriness [sic] shifts about
in different places but that is much better than it has been yet
it is verry [sic] difficult for him to bear any weight on his lame foot
it is now first day evening and the 12 of the month Henry contin
ues lame walks with 2 crutches goes verry slow, Catherine
about as usual not any better perhaps not quite as well as
some times [sic], Mary has gone to Milbury Samuel Hecks little
boy is quite sick with the inflammation on the lungs they
sent for Mary this morning, Abigail Willets wife of Jacob
our neighbor has been very poorly for about 2 weeks we
have just heard that she has a little girl some 2 or 3 hours
old, I am in hopes she will soon be better, but Mary has
been fearfull [sic] that she would not get up again, Mother
Kirby is not verry [sic] smart but genarly[sic] so as to be about
father is quite smart health good except lame,____________
Thomas Whitson and Mary Willets proposals of Marriage
came to our prepatire [sic] Meeting last fifth day, our
Jericho and Westbury yong [sic] folks have seamed [sic] to have got quite
in the spirit of getting Married this season, Thomas Whitson
is the son of Thomas Whitson that lived at Flushing.
(I wrote something that Many said words
not do to send and I cut it off)
[Inserted Page]
(Page 5)
Read the enclose first
Jericho 3 M 12th 1848.
I comenced [sic] writing to thee [obliterated] truly more than a week ago
but have not sent yet had perty[sic] much gave out as Mary fund[sic]
so much ^fault^ with my letter but as she is gone from home I
thought I would send it. thee may tell Edmund P. that
his father has sold his [fat?] open for $8 per 100 lb they are
butcherd [sic] at Oysterbay the one that was slaughtered last
week weighed 1008 lb I think this the lightest one the
other to be slaughtered this week. Henry bought them last
8 Mo. for 63 dollars and now gets about 163$ for them that
is the way to make money on long hand, Henry and his
boys have got to be quite in the spirit of farming they have
had about 400 bush of wheat sold it for 10/6 ts 11/ per buss
have them [earn?] mostly on hand Samuel thought last
fall they should have about 1500 bush of [ears?] they
have oats at 50. C but are none waiting for the price to get up
corn is worth about 5/. last winter 8 and 9 shilling
what a difference; Isaac Willis has gone to spend the
Evining [sic] with some nice pirty [sic] girls, at Robert Seamans
we begin to think there is some hope of Isaac. but as
for Samuel he will just wink at them and that is about
all, Joseph [Shotwell?] has bough [Doltes?] Rodgers old plce [sic]
at Jericho for his son Joseph, they expect to move ^in^ about
the first of next month he gave about 120 dollars per
acre a fair price, Chickens are north in New York about
8 and 10/ per fair turkies [sic] 2 dollars and 18/ a piece if a man
wants to make money by farming Long Island is the
place we have just sold a lot of Locust timber from
6/ to 8/ a foot according to the sise [sic] I believe they want
it to build the war steemers [sic] so they can have them to
kill the Mexicans with unless they make peace which I
hope they will. for I think they have been thrashed
quite enough perhaps as much as they deserved
from your brother J Willis. please excuse every imperfection
(Page 6)
[Text in top margin, written upside down]
Velvet Ribbons [illegible]
communication connection with
Persevere ye honest men ever keep
the precepts tin commission
omission
[Text normal]
Willet E Post
Isaac Post
& son Rochester
New York
[Text in middle of page, written upside down]
AP IIP Joseph Post
controvert contraband contrite
prevent [perponderence?] [preconcerted?]
many men of many winds
(Page 1)
[Stamp, upper left corner]
OWEN & HURLBUT
So.Lee
MASS
[Text normal]
Westbury 8 month 20th 47
My dear William and Mary will probably be supprised [sic] to receive a
scrawl from aunt Mary as it is quite a novel circumstance for her to
make such an attempt besides never having invited her to do so it must
of cource [sic] follow as a necessary consequence. I will in the first place int-
-roduce myself to you as I am now situated seated in our sitting room by
the window [in illegible] our men are on the meadow’s and I am sitting
entirely alone awaiting their arrival Ann and the girls having all
retired to their respective apartments and they are all the company I
have except the cricket caty did’s [sic] and other busy watchers of the night
and these are enough for the present at least to while away the time
ere our men return I have been enjoying the beauties of this evening
in all its quiet loveliness there is ever an elevating purifying sentimen^t^
connected therewith which I have ever loved Sweet hour of Night, to all bosoms ^dear^
Thou bearest a spell on thy viewless win^gs^
That drives from the human breast all fear
And nerveth the soul to mighty things
I have not heard of your arrival in New York tho [sic] doubtless you did sometime
ago how I wished you would just slip up[p] to Westbury if it were only one
night I had so many regrets to tell you that you were not at Norristown
as well as so much of an agreeable character that I flatter myself we
should have enjoyed it greatly – but as you did not see fit to do so I hope
to hear what good excuse you can make for your absence from the afforsaid [sic]
meeting I think it was good to be there even tho [sic] at considerable sacrifice
of social intercourse [and] I do not in the least doubt your wish to have
partaken with us of this intellectual feast but as you have one in anticip
-ation I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did the other and give us a
little sketch of it – but I must lay this aside as our men have arrived
tired and hungry and perhaps I may resume it tomorrow evening under
similar circumstances, good night 24 this is the 4 evening since I laid
this aside and no opportunity has occurred to add a line until now
when I am similarly situated as before only the evening is more
beautiful almost too beautiful to attempt any thing besides enjoy-
-ing it – Seventh day Henry and Catharine were here and informed us
you had not arrived in New York the week before and that Jacob had
gone on we feel anxiously uncertain as to the cause –
(Page 2)
We have just heard D and Mary Post have been bereaved of their little
darling daughter it is doubtless a severe affliction to them – we were
expecting them up on a visit very shortly this may disappoint us – it is
considerably sickly particularly among children dysentery and fever’s
too Rachel Hicks is quite ill Gideon and Mary W Frost called here this
afternoon on their way home from Greenport they have been from home
a month in hope’s it might be beneficial to Mary but there is no
favourable change except she is considerably stronger – it look’s
as though she might remain here but a short time but I hope she
may be they will be so lonely without her cheerful presence
Our last Monthly Meeting was held at Matinecock and somehow
it has happened that our friend Rachel’s revelations have not been of
so satisfactory a character as those held at Westbury generally are
or more correctly speaking was more objectionable than usual She began
by saying that there was a spirit spreading in the world and particularly in
our own country to lay waste civil government which she looked upon as
a great blessing our early friend often went to those in power and assured
them of their peaceful intentions in relation to it that they considerd [sic]
it necessary but that if there were any requirement we could not comply
with patently [sic] submit that she looked in the civil Government and religion
as the two greatest blessings we had &c – that abolitionists were
publickly [sic] trying to break down the government and that members of society
attended such meetings where the doctrine was advocated that the
government and the religion of this country stood in their way and it
was not right to connive at members doing this things she appealed to
the warm abolitionists (who by the by when all counted amounted to the number
of Two) and those who encouraged them in it to consider what they
were doing (and so on until she came to a great and good personage whom
she had loved almost to veneration namely Elias Hicks had in his great
zeal on the subject of using Slave produce ^said^ that if the reason was
convinced it was not necessary to wait for further revelation
which she never had united with that she thought it was necessary
to feel the command to refrain from the use it had been greatly in the
cross for her to do so as well as a tax on the pocket that this sentiment [sic]
of Elias Hicks was held up as a reason why men might engage
in doing something for Liberty – yes the word Liberty had a wonder-
(Page 3)
-ful effect associations of various [Uin] do for the extension of Liberty
abounded in this day spoke of the odd Fellows society and the poor Mormon
too come in for a share said they had been dangerous to the government
but they had been overcome, what a shame to express such a sentiment
they have truly been overcome but how and by what means? by mob
violence their rights taken from them and then for a quaker [sic]
preacher to speak of it approvingly – but abolition disunionists [sic] were
the most to be condemed [sic] from her sermon it was to be infered [sic] that
it was her opinion such members should be cut off from the body
lest the body should be brought to suffer – (I think she said so)
in the men’s meeting they had been appointing a com to raise money for the
YM [use?] Joseph told them if the sentiments we had heard in that meet-
-ing were those of the members of this meeting he could ^not^ contribute his
share of the money they were to raise and he held two appointments whi
-ch he asked to be released from &c&c also that he was united with abo
-litionists and advocated the doctrine of no union with slaveholders
cousin S Mott and S Thorne hoped the friend would be quit [sic] E Willet
thought the proposition of our friend J Pought to claim some attention
of the meeting he then gave a preach – and there the matter ended –
I need not say ended for the manifestation of unkind feeling is more
and more apparent whether they will make out to persuade [obliterated]
-selves it is best to cut us off I do not know I think they would
be highly gratified if we would resign that is some few of our [obliterated]
member’s not the meeting generally – Gideon Frost was not at the meeting
which I regretted he is so capable and he would not have let it pass
in that way again I must say goodnight for my eyes as well as the
clock which is now striking warn me of the lateness of the hour
Again after a lapse of several days I resume my pen for the purp
-ose of bringing this to a close Joseph has been to New York and find the repor^t^
we heard of you not passing through that city incorrect we have also receiv [sic]
a letter from brother Isaac by which it appears you have arrived
Probably ere this you have had a visit from Lucretia who we hear has gone
to Ohio I rejoice in it she is doing a great work for humanity and religion
and may it be extended far and wide but alass [sic] how many in our sect
are condemning her it seems to me they are willfully blind – or
they would see the pure excellence and beauty of her whole life
(Page 4)
What a shameful outrage on Douglass and Garrison at Harrisburg I hoped
the day had passed by when such violence would be quietly submitted to
by the inhabitants of a city like Harrisburg without a strong condemna
-tion I almost tremble for their safety their reception at Pittsburg was
much more honourable, thanks to them for their kindness and attention –
Little indeed do those know of the difficulties and trials of faithful abolit
ionists who are ever talking about ^those who^ joining them ^do so^ to be popular to be thought
well of by the world – one thing I do know it has not become popular
here Long Island is one of the hardest places there really seems to be
no feeling on the subject, with many there is a kind of holy horror against
it as their fathers did so do they they have virtualy [sic] said thus far
and no further but public sentiment will in time make such an
impress as they little dream of now – Robert Purvis speaking of
Friends said quaker [sic] hate and indifference was the hardest to overcome
there was no reaching them they would not be convinced – and I could say ^amen^
to that sentiment I must say Farewell again I may add alittle [sic] more but my
paper is too small
9 month 2 here this is yet and I have only time to add a word or two Aunt Mary M
Post is here on a visit she and the Dr came up 3rd day eve to see aunt Sarah who
is quite ill with the dysentery tho [sic] we hope a little better I spoke of R Hicks being
sick she has been out at meeting – Do excuse this as it has been made up of
odds and ends and unworthy of an answer still I would be very glad
to hear from you soon with love to all I am your affectionate aunt
Mary
PS we are expecting Rush and Rebecca Plumby soon but uncertain
when – What a shameful outrage that was at Newtown on Cyrus
M Burleigh what a Shame such religion is George F White speaks occasionally
[Text sideways in right margin]
are you glad to hear it
[Text sideways center of page]
10 North Hempstead
Sept 4
William R Hallowell
Rochester
New York
(Page 1)
Dear All I did expect to have written a long letter
but my Joseph has done nobly so I am sure you will excuse me if
I did not write a line but as I have a few minutes (altho [sic] we have
company) I will tell you we have had a nice visit from your children
only for too short should have been glad of a longer but as that could not
be we were thankful for what we had – I was verry [sic] very sorry they did not
attend the meeting at Norristown I think it was much to be perfered [sic] to
ordinary visiting it was a grand meeting only the Liberty party took up
too much of the time and then if any one called them to the question unde
-r discussion they claimed the right to speak freely on almost any thing
it was provoking to have their interruption so often and so long too –
[obliterated] I thought they were rather a mixed up meeting so many political
abolitionists and so many of them even of our kind of antislavery
folks could not bear patiently to hear the Era spoken of as Garrison and
others did but the discusion [sic] will do good I think – how strange to
contrast some of the abolitionists with others some have gone onward
steadily from one position to another while others who commenced
about the same time are now boasting that their views are the
same as they were 20 year’s ago – Garrison renew’d the cause
for 20 years and it was quite cheering to review the many conquest
contended for and won – “there is a good time coming then wait a
little longer” not indifferently and supinily [sic] relying on God to do the
work but actively using the means given us to bring about this
desirable time Lucretia and Martha expect to go to Nantucket
tomorrow Lucretia is a great great woman excelcior [sic] must have
been her motto – she is my to my idea as perfect a woman as there
is – she is remarkably well and very fleshy indeed We see Rush
and Rebecca Plumly she wished to be remembered to you said she had
letters quite frequently from Joseph and Ruth Dugdale Josephs health
is quite good and they write very cheerfully – We had a very
satisfactory time see many ^of^ our friends and made new one’s
one thing was quite a draw back George Truman was from home
but we knew it before we went so were not disappointed he has a
favoured [sic] time feels in his place his way made very open and I
doubt not in watering others he will be watered too and I have no
doubt he will be more liberal he is so much so now as to be
(Page 2)
quite unpopular with some of his quaker [sic] friends I am almost
ready to conclude that quaker [sic] hate is worse than other it
is so sanctified and holy – but hate is bad any way
Farewell this has been scribbled in great haste so you will excuse
write soon and often – I hope brother Isaac will remember his
promis [sic] – I send Jacob’s collar did not find in timely to wash it
[Text sideways]
Isaac Post
Rochester
New York
Care of
W R Hallowell
(Page 1)
[Text in top margin, written upward]
Garrison arose and ^and^
spoke of the famine
Garrison was then
intruduced [sic] to
the meeting and
much appladed [sic]
he then spoke
of the famine
in Ireland but
he did not believe
their [sic] was one
even in a state
starvation that
would be willing
to change places
with the
slaves . It was
now 10 ½ Oclock
and we thought
it best to
leave as one
friends would
be setting up
for us it is
proberable [sic] we
shall see some
account of the
meeting but
cannot realize
it like being
pr^e^asent
[Text normal]
Westbury 8th mo 1st 1847
Dear Relatives
Jacob has just left us with Samuel
Willis not expecting to return he has made us a pleasant
visit . it has been a busy time with us so that we could
not have quit as much time with William and Mary as
we should have liked although th and their time after
William came so short, but we enjoyed it very much
and am in hopes they did , Our Quarterly meeting has past
Edward Hicks attended quit feeble spoke on 5 day very
affectionately it was good but nothing ^like^ that . that we used
to expect from him . 6th day Lucretia Moll was their
and spoke most excletly [sic] and quite [ultry?] , I believe
many liked her very much and I suppose many of strong
orthodox party very little . James was with her they came
home with us , a short but very pleasant visit and then to
Henrys that night . and first day at Flushing where the
was very extrardinary [sic] but William and Mary can tell
you all about her and what she said better than I can
Rachel last first that we went to Flushing said much and
E Rushmore said he supposed we should not like it which
was all they seemed willing to tell us except that she said
much against the odd-fellows . to day [sic] she arose with saying
their [sic] was a middle path between Popery on the one hand
and libertinism on the other . the one acknowledged man
as head and could forgive sins . and the ^other^ acknowledged no
head which she seemed to think about as bad. that
she thought strange they had not courage enough to
withdraw and go by themselves that seems to be their
hoby [sic] now as they cannot find any thing to disown for and
some of us hold on so hard it seems to be the only way
unless they can bring some charge against [illegible] of spreading
infidel principles and as the mMilton meeting . the meeting
committee reported they were spreding [sic] inferdel [sic] pr^i^nc^i^ples
without saying what they were . they ought to have name
them for some of us may be as bad , and proberbly [sic] Lucretia
went as far at the Quarterly meeting so that they have not
(Page 2)
kiled [sic] it all off . Our crops prety [sic] good . hay I think
more than an average crop our wheat good we have
threshed 24 shocks and 10 sheaves of wheat and had 30 bushels
according to Rachels doctrine it is a great curse for she
says she considers prosperity the greatest curse. for she
says she considers prosperity the greatest curse that can
befall a nation , it does seem as though some and [illegible]
do not know but I might say the most of Christendom
look upon the good mans path as a very hard uncomfortable
and almost an unhapy [sic] one , I consider to be good is to be
happy . 8th mo 2nd this morning about 4 Oclock I was called
and informed of the death of Sidney Ally at Rouland
Titus,s he came from New York last 5 day poorly with the
disentary [sic] although I hardly think that was the cause
of his death . he has used strong drink freely of latter
time so much so that I suppose it has shortend [sic] his
days . they informed me that it took 4 men to hold
him on the bed yesterday and last night untill [sic] 1 Oclock
his widow looks like a poor heartbroken woman . the
funeral to take place tomorrow to meet at the meeting
house at 10 Oclock . We are have concluded to go to
the meeting at Norristown and make a little visit
to our Friends in the City ^8mo 3^ I have just returned from
B Titus,s and not being time to attend meeting and go to
New York “ his Sidney partner is up to the funeral he says
his course has been a steady downward ^one^ for the last three
years , but the last year had given up seemaly [sic] to the
full enjoyment of his perluted [sic] appetite which has
brought him young to an intimely [sic] grave. Oh the need
of evry [sic] one to urge on the reform of total abstinence
from all intoxicating drinks I think it might make
some of our friends who discour^a^ge people from signing
the temperence [sic] pledge look around to see one of their own
members hell so soon put an end to his existance [sic]
but I suppose they will say ti is the right time for
the Lord is all powerfull [sic] and could prevent it if it
was his will , which is the dockrrin doctrine they
hold up at times . Rachel says ^she should not dare say but .^ evry [sic] soldier that dies on
on the battle field , she should not dare dies in the right time
which I think goes but very little way to discourage war
(Page 3)
Philadelphia 8 mo 5 we left home day before yesterday at 12 Oclock
and arrived here about 9 and was in New York 2 ½ hours , and yesterday
morning at 9 started for Norristown and found found the people assem
=ble about ready for the meeting . Garrisson [sic] went on with us we had a
very pleasent [sic] meeting very interesting Garrisson [sic] reveiwed [sic] the cause
for the last 15 or 20 years although slavery ^the slaves^ had increased from 2. 000 000
to nearly 3.000.000 and the slave states in same rait rasho [sic] yet
he thought their [sic] was great incouragement [sic] for the free states had
improved from making the abolitions for exposing the colinization [sic]
and proclaiming the right of immediate emacipation [sic] had made
laws much more favourable for freedom and could now here
the subject of no union with the slaveholders discused [sic] with comparison
comparitive [sic] approbation altogether it was a very interesting
meeting , to day Duglass [sic] is to be their as his arrival was annonced
announced yesterday . 6th we had a very crowded house yesterday
and a very interesting meeting a good deal of discussion much
about this national Era . Garrison Duglass [sic] Gay and others say
it is not much of an antislavery paper not and as it its location
is at washington and would be consider at the south as the standard
of abolition they thought abolitionist ought not to support
it. many about here seem to think it the bes paper pr^i^nted
and of course it found supporters so the discussion was strong
many about here do not come to Duglass [sic] standard although
he seems to be a very great favourite with the people
I say Dugalss [sic] because some think it is not expected for
many to come to Garrison standard . but I think in all
Garrison contriver^ses^ [sic] with his so called friends he has come off
but, but it may be you will think I am so one sided as not
to judge correctly but in looking back in many instantses [sic]
thouse [sic] that opposed him have acknowledge him to be in the
right in judgment of not in expression always , on the whole
of the age . although he shouses [sic] his fallibility on the free
produce question and like every other person when they got a
bad cause they make show their inconsistency it seems very strong
freely trading with slaveholders is not giveing [sic] countinence [sic] to slave
=holding as much as receiveing [sic] money by the free church of scotland
which he has condemned as countinenceing [sic] slavery J Post
(Page 4)
8th of the month we expected to have seen William [Sillary?]
at the meeting on 6 day and given them this . they said they ment [sic]
to come but I suppose their friends did not open the way or prosu-
aded [sic] them to give it up . I know not but it was for the best . yet
they lost much that would have interested them much . We
left home with the intention of returning on 6 day but finding
the meeting expected was to continue 3 days and Fredrick Duglass [sic]
was to have a reception meeting 6 day evening we concluded to
stay another day we returned yesterday a very rainy time much
of the way . particular about the time we arrived at New York and
geting [sic] from the boat to the cars arrived home about 3 oclock
our children very glad to see us. much disappointed our not arriveing [sic]
the evening before . The meeting at Norristown the most interesting
one that we ever attended although much said that we do not unite
with . an invitation given for all persons present to partake
in the discussions which they seemed to consider made them mem
-bers almost or rather if they could not have things as they
wanted them they complained of unfareness [sic] , Garison [sic] said it was
this meeting was different from meetings he had genarly [sic] attended
as it was made up mostly of the society of friends . whereas he
had used to see but few, in some of the discussion they
did give friends a little credit for not holding religous [sic]
fellowship with slaveholders . I suppose the proseeding [sic] will
be published in the standard so you will have a much better
account than this, well 6 day evening we attended F [Dudlass?]
meeting it was got up by the coulard [sic] people not so many as I expected
to see it being a verry [sic] rainy evening I suppose prevented many
from attending although the house about full which I think
will hold more than Westbury meeting house Robert Pervis intro=
duced and welcomed Fredrick to the meeting in a most excellent
though not lengthy speech . which we thought paid us for going
F was also very interesting the people much pleased when
speaking of the religion of the south and ^how^ the slaves were preached
to ^it^ would often come from some of the older ones thats true
F. set down for Garison [sic] and said he wanted to say more after . some wanted
^him^ to go on one voice go on till midnight . One man arose to ask a
question . he enquired of F how it was that England was praised so much
for being so kind to the coulard [sic] man . and yet held 8.000.000 slaves in Ireland
he had much difficalty [sic] to be heard many crying out don’t here him take
him out and so on one man he ought to be tared [sic] feathered . F explained that it
was not the case, that they ^had^ came and was comeing [sic] to this country by thousands
to rule you and me he was much applauded [sic], I think the man must of felt cheap
[Text in center of page, underlying main text]
Isaac Post
Rochester
(Page 1)
there are many mistakes but I have not time to rectify them
Joseph says George and Ann left this morning
Westbury 6 month 25th 47
the 1st of July Joseph desires love to all
My dear Brother
We have a day or two since received thy kind
and interesting letter and I had felt it to be a very long time since
we had been blessed in that way and I fain would have taken
up my pen had not the lumbering things of time pressed heavily on
me added to which the long time which elapsed between your letters
worries me to be sparing of my inflection’s – but as brother Isaac
proposes a change I gladly accede thereto and will endeavour to
do my part fully so far as regards length and frequency howeve [sic]
I trust we shall not monopolize this privelege [sic] but whenever Amy
Sarah or Joseph feel it in their hearts to contribute their share it will
be most thankfully awarded to them
There have been many incidents occurring which I wished to remember
to tell you about which have now lost some of the interest I then attached to
them others I have forgotten – Perhaps Yearly Meeting comes first on the list
I was not in attendance it really seemed quite strange not to be there and
I hear the womens meeting spoken of as being one of great favor harmony and
unanimity – the men’s too is considered by the power to be so too but
Joseph felt less of interest than ever before and were it not for the few
righteous remaining he would be ready to flee from it as Lot did from
Sodom Jacob L Mott showed the spirit he is of too plainly to be mistaken
probably Edmund has mentioned it – in relation to a document from
[Indiana] ^Ohio^ YM on slavery he has been condemned by his own friends for it but
^it^ was no more than many are prepared to act out – altho [sic] they are frequently speaking
of the perfect equality in our society are as good a right to be heard as another
but dont they see it is not so? let any one who is an uncompromising
abolitionist speak on almost any subject and it is easy to see how it is recei
-ved by the would be followers of Fox Barclay and Penn – without examining
what is said they are prepared with a judgement of condemnation Samuel
Hughes who has been held up ^as^ being one of the real kind of friends
preached as friends used to a great while ago he did not meddle with
what is going on in the world &c &c well we were favored to hear the
friend and I may say I was supprised [sic] – and I remarked if that was
a specimen of old fashioned preaching I was not sorry we heard it seldom he
quoted scripture abundantly principly [sic] from the old testament Solomon
and his beloved among the rest – (he appeared to be a goodly man in meetn [sic]
I see him no where else)
(Page 2)
the next day we went to orthodox meeting an Englishman that traveled and
interpreted for Elizabeth Walker and also for Stephen Grilette [sic, Grellet] on the continent
of Europe The [sic] call him the gratest [sic] preacher ever been here from England – and
if I could believe the doctrine he preached I should consider him great too
said much on the atonement faith beleif [sic] and so on which I cannot compreh^end^
at all the latter part of his discourse was of a more practical cast and I could
respond to it – it was a watering time to the household of faith –
Since which Jacob L has been at the two monthly meetings he seems to
me to be a changed man from what he was year’s ago – but I know
too that I see things very differently from what I did and perhaps the chanfe
is on my part John Jackson and Rachel were at Jericho and the contrast between
Jacob and John’s communication’s were very striking John made religion
to be plain and self evident to all the fruits of which were love to
God and benevolence to man and if such fruits were not produced pro
-fession was vain it would not constitute us members of the church
of God – &c &c it was truly excellent – Jacob spoke first said considerable
of Paul said he had no doubt if now here he would be with the Presbyterian a
Presbyterian with a Methodist a Methodist and so on ^all things to all men^ so that by any means he
might gain some Paul was a rapid reasoner he might be compared to a
galloping horse for rapidity in the midst of his reasoning he stoped [sic] short
and knowing Timothys weak state he recommended him to drink no
more water but wine take a little wine for the stomachs’ sake &c
Abraham and the sacrifice too were spoken on – John’s health is feeble
cough and night sweats – he looks miserably made us a delightful visit
it is as a brook by the way to meet such as he Here this is the 30
of 6 month and not on its way many things combine to prevent writing
and [your] I fear I shall not add much at this time George and Anna
Willets are here on a visit we have not had much of their company
They have been at Joseph Hicks’s nights they may remain a day or two
longer – Joseph and self have recently been to see Mary W Frost she is
very feeble but has gained a little since yearly meeting she rides out
in pleasant weather and it does her good cough’s very much the forepart
of the day and raises a great deal she is cheerful through all – I hope
she may be spared to them and us a while longer – but the question arrises
when or how long before we are ready to part with our loved one’s?
We feel ourselves to be striped [sic] and in measure lonely altho [sic] many
(Page 3)
relatives still remain to bless and cheer us – few of whome [sic] sympathize
so fully with us in sentiment as the dear one’s who have left us
I cannot help feeling as tho [sic] it was too much for thee and Joseph to be
separated only think how desirable it would be to be together – I hope
the day is not very distant when we shall meet you if it be only for
a brief season – do let us see you this summer or autumn at fatheres^t^ [sic]
we are expecting it. Catharine Willis is in New York been there 2 weeks
she is better than when she went – her eyes were very band when she went down
probably she may write soon herself and tell of her treatment – &c &c Dr Sweet
saw her and operated on her joints too and if they only remain in place I
should hope she would be greatly benefited – She went to Dr Halloe first
he has a girl he magnetizes who examines patients and prescribes for them
which she did for Catharine I do not hear as she recommended Dr Sweet but
that he saw her at the office incidentally Henry is going down for her – he may
have gone to day – I suppose you have had a visit from Isaac and Mary
in this Mary wished to go to Rochester to see you and Isaac too but pro-
-bably hay time coming on so near may influence him somewhat – we did
not know of Marys going in season to write by her – I spoke of the wom
-en’s Y Meeting being satisfactory I have since heard some remarks as tho [sic] it was
not so much so “that it was rather dry did not seem like YM” I am ri[obliterated]
glad when it seem’s dry to some of the bodyites our last monthly was
a very dry lifeless concern to Joseph and self and I have heard it was
so to some others – well they are reaping the harvest of the seed they
are and have been sowing – how can they expect to reap wheat when tares
were sown – for it remains true “such as ye sow such shall ye reap”
I feel but little interest in the doings am for the most part a looken [sic]
on E S Willets and W T Cock are overseers W is the new one
There has been a proposition to hold a meeting at Oyster bay under
the care of a committee once a month first day afternoons which has
been considered again and again ^only twice^ without concluding to do so – the
meeting was informed that the house was repaired at considerable
expense with a view to something of the kind – We are told there are
quite a number of friendly people there who would be glad of an opportunity
of attending Joseph has just come from meeting (I have by the way been at home)
and says Isaac Rushmore was there too and they have not been to see you
dont it beat every thing? says he wanted to go but Mary Post and Mary Wood
(Page 4)
were not willing to go or let him go – I do like to see people do
as they wish sometimes – It has been a very cool summer with the exception
of three or 4 days this week and last it is now cool again had a beautiful rain
last night and now all nature is rejoicing in the timely blessing it seems
like Spring so fresh and green Joseph talk’s of commencing to make hay
next week the season is backward – I beleive [sic] I told you sometime ago that
Emma Grimshaw had left here to teach a school in Vermont well she went in
great expectation of doing great things of making double the money there that she
could here and she is most grievoussly [sic] disappointed has been teribbly [sic] homesick for
L.I and is now expecting to come back the 1st of 8 month says she has learned the
truth of the adage “a bud in the hand is worth two in the bush” Esther Post is teach in
that school now she will leave after this week and take Caroline’s place in the
other house I hear some of the orthodox friends cannot under any circumstance send
their children to our school and wish their children select I cannot understand
it at all why they should wish other children than their own members to attend
their school I cannot see what difference there is in houses I hate to encourage
such illiberality in any way – they use all their influence to get all they can
George Truman has a minute to go to the East on quite an extensive [seall?] probabl [sic]
be absent about two months so I hear Rachel continues to speak to the people
and very frequently not to our entire satisfaction Timothy too sometimes but
[Text upside-down, in margins of original text, starting at bottom of page]
in a very efficient way he almost speaks on the wickedness of this government
holding one sixth of the population in abject slavery and now carrying on a war
for the extension of it he speaks so plainly some can scarcely bear it he say’s
we hear a great deal of preaching and I have wondered that ‘we [sear woshing?] said
on the subject of slavery and war’ two of the greatest testimonys [sic] the society has to bear
especially as there is need of our making it known for there is now one of the dread [files?]
horrible wais [sic] ever known and yet friends say nothing against it and still wish
to be thought to be pioneers in all that is good he said he had but his mind drawn
to this society in younger life and the principle he fully beleived [sic] in but he had had a pretty
trying time of it I thought it was true enough altho [sic] many laugh at the remark
well I have made quite a long story about the preacher’s and left some things I
had better said Rebecca Hawxhursts daughter Esther who has been sick so long has
entered her higher life suffered much during her illness & uncle Robert has his
fits quite frequently has had a number in meeting but not as hard as some
What a treat you will have ere long how I should like to share it with you I mean
Garrison and company I never looked on him with feelings of greater love and
reverance [sic] than I did this spring and how very few comparatively there are who
are willing to aid him in his labor’s or indeed to do anything for their bretheren [sic]
and sister in bonds It seems so strange to me that friends cannot throw away
their sectarian feelings and unite in doing battle against the slave system
probably you may remember some remarks Garrison made on the use of free produce (he had better
not made any it seemed to me) than such) well they were copied into the Non Slaveholder cousin
Maria Willets see there and of course condemned the author and cannot see his
other virtues she cannot se how we can take a paper edited by one who holds
such views – how few are consistent in all things I fear we should all be found ^wanting^
[Text sideways in right margin]
Give my love to all the household Edmund William Mary
and all the rest when may we begin to look for a letter
our chances are just getting good I wish you were here to
partake of them when may we look for you – Elizabeth
Mott is at Jericho making a long visit I sometimes wish
I could do so too but I like my confinement better than
too much liberty E made us a very pleasant visit lately
Mary
[Text sideways, center of page]
North Hempstead 10
July 4th
Isaac Post
Rochester
New York
(Page 1)
[Text in top margin]
Our girls say do tell uncle Isaac and aunt Amy to name their baby William instead
of Willet
[Text normal]
Dear All Westbury 5 month First day aftern^oon^
It has been a very long time since you have
remembered us (until this one by Edmund) sufficiently to write
and I have felt it in my heart repeatedly to take up my pen
again to inquire the cause – for I could not believe that there was
any diminution of affection or sympathy of feeling toward us – but
then why not write oftener, I am aware that you have numerous claim^s^
on your time and many relatives to write to but it is very pleasa
-nt ^to us^ to be rememberd [sic] too, I will pass on to other matters and first
and foremost on the list is the Aniversary [sic] meetings which were
the best we have had in year’s – in my opinion – they were
larger and altogether there was more to encourage altho [sic] there
was considerable disaprobation [sic] manifested particularly when the
constitution General Taylor the war and the church were up – but
I thought they bore it all remarkably – for it was strong meat
to them We went to the city on 3rd day morning Joseph was not quite
well before we left home after getting in the Tabernecle [sic] he felt
much more unwell was obliged to go out but was in and out till [sic] the
close of the meeting went to cousin Robert’s laid down and thought
he felt better so that he would try to go again rode over but was
obliged to return immediately and had a very ill turn high fever
at night on my return I got some pills which had an excellent
effect causing him to vomit freely &c he was better next day came
home in the afternoon I remained until near the close of the meet-
-ing on fifth day – some say what good does come from this anual [sic]
meeting you pass resolutions and say many hard things which nobody
come’s to hear or if they happen to hear they do not convince – but
really I feel encouraged there were more listeners and more oppo-
-nents too, for the two last year’s – it shows signs of more life
or of more fear at any rate that the church and the union are in danger
hence the necessity of coming to the rescue – it has another good effect
it strengthens the bond of union between abolitionists and stimula
-tes to increased effort for the oppressed – Douglas looked well and
was greater than ever you will see his speech in the Tabernacle also
the other’s on the same occasion I do not know as there were any rep-
-orter’s there at any of the other meetings which I regret for there were
(Page 2)
many speeches which ought to be preserved I never heard J C Ha-
-thaway before he spoke with much warmth and animation of the
war and General Taylor which brought out a person who took quite
a different view of things but the best of all was at another time
the resolutions condemning the government war Taylor &c being read
a person in the crowd commenced speaking he was invited to the
stand which invitation he accepted and have his name as Major
Norton of Boston he came in partly by accident on account of the sho
-wer and hearing those resolutions read he could not sit tamely on his
seat without exposing them he eulogized the country and all belonging
thereto even the war and Taylor into the bargain said the victorys [sic] gained
were enough and ought to cover this nation with glory &c &c he was asked
about Taylor’s slaves yes he had slaves but he beleived [sic] they were treated
well and probably far better than many of the servants here in NY
he was followed by Ward (whome [sic] you probably know) in a capital speech he
used his arguments all up in a masterly manner and greatly to the satis
-faction of the antislavery part of the audience Garrison followed. The
Major rose to leave Garrison alluded to it and then quoted a number
of his lines “Conscience makes cowards of us all &c” when directly the Major
reappeared in great wrath and interrupted Garrison and among other
things dared him to call him a coward and finally offered a challenge
to fight – (I could not hear much he said) Garrison very calmnly [sic] replyed [sic]
such weapons he had no use for having long since discarded them in all cases
the major then left the hall and a company with him and I would hope
a wiser man – there are many incidents and remarks I would love to
speak to you about but as my paper is getting full and I hope you
will have a pretty full account in the papers and as G B Stebbins
^and^ wife and William Brown and probably others were in attendance whome [sic]
you may see E P W was there some so in view of all the sources you will
have to obtain more correct information than I can give in this way I will
pass on to other topics but first I may say this has been written in
the midst of talking having had company nearly all the time I laid
it aside when cousin Thomas Whitson and Susan came T is very much
as he used to be but we fancied there was some improvement he is cons-
-iderably crippled in part by his extreme exertions to acquire wealth
altho [sic] he attributes it to hereditary disease [sic] ^and medicine^ – it is sad to contemplate
(Page 3)
man endowed by his creator with talents capable of attaining to a
high and exalted state but by the misapplication of them groveling
in the earth neither receiving or conferring happiness on those around him
Philadelphia Yearly Meeting has ended and we hear they had a
pretty comfortable time but have not had any particulars yet Rachel
^and^ Abraham Hicks accompanied by Amos and Caroline have been also Samuel
Thorne Henry and Phebe Titus the last named took their homes at James
Motts a good place for them to hear the truth Samuel is improving
becoming more liberal in his views – which is encouraging in these
degenerate times William Healy asked or rather informed the monthly
meeting that he had a prospect of attending Phil Y Meeting they sat a
while and no expression either for or against it Cousin Joseph Willets said
if friends had no remark to make perhaps the clerk might proceed with
the business which was done accordingly – – Id we may judge the yearly M
by the sermon we had to day they had come truth’s which were not very
palateable [sic] to Rachel reason (that dreadful enemy to man’s peace) ^and^ the cultivation
of the various faculties of our nature were spoken against as well as
many other topics to a great length and it seemed to me to be labor
lost how all important it is for people to know themselves really before
attempting to teach others – But now I must leave and bid all good
night Second day eve I will resume this for a few minutes but as family
duties are resting more weightily upon me than usual it will necessarily
be only for a few minutes our orthodox Friends are in quite a dilemma
about their school Emma was engaged for the ensuing season she was
had an offer of a school in Vermont for the summer where she and
her friends think she can earn more so she has concluded to leave
here suddenly and now the friends feel the great importance of having
a teacher immediately else some of the schollars [sic] may go to the other
school – I hate the sectarian feeling which prevails in both societys [sic] in
relation to both school’s – William and Henry Titus are here now inquiring about
Mary Underwood we had a letter from her a short time ago in which she
spoke of her mission being closed and her wish to return and get a school
if there should be any opening hereaway [sic] for her – I wish she was here
now for I feel as though a good school was very important and she gave
good satisfaction before but I think her chance of getting this is doubtful
Mary writes that she hear’s frequently from her mother says she stay’s at
(Page 4)
home mostly and ^it is quite a trial to leave it even for a few day’s^ Mary thinks a mighty change has come over the
spirit of her dreams Third day afternoon I laid this aside hastily last
eve and was supprised [sic] by a visitor William McKim and if I am not
very much mistaken he is sick in the region of the heart and Emma
is in the possession of a panacea which would effect a cure if she
would only apply the remedy – but I should think his case a hopele
-ss one – however they had a long confab this morning but as to the result
I am ignorant – He was dreadfully disappointed in not finding her
here he supposed this was her home he came up to wait on her down
on the morrow – he is not out but will return to night probably –
Joseph has gone to the city with hay I have been hopeing [sic] he would
find time to write so that I might be excused but as I know he often
puts off untill [sic] too late to write much and altho [sic] it is here as Richard
D Well says not so important as it was once to embrace an opportunity – still I
love to do it and rejoice when I hear of an “opportunity” for I am aware my scrawl^s^
are not worth much however we may be disappointed after all for we have been
expecting Edmund all this week and still he comes not – Here I am at the end
of my paper and so much I wished to say unsaid Doubtless you have heard
the decision the Quarterly Meeting came to relative to Marlborough meeting
and have you ever known any act to exceed that for injustice and highhan
-ded power? they have trampled on the rights and feelings of their fellow ^members^
[Text sideways in right margin]
and regard their triumph as a great good they do not
see that ^the^ same spirit actuates as did in 28 Rachel says there
is not a particle of it that love to their God and the good
of society is the only reason that there is not a particle
of bitterness felt in separating them from the body they
have been attached to – it is all for their good and the good
of the body
[Text sideways, center of page]
Isaac Post
Rochester
New York
(Page 1)
[Previous Pages written by Joseph Post to Isaac Post and transcribed as 674_02_09_1847]
10th
Turn over leaf for the beginning of this letter Joseph accidentally commenced on
the wrong side and as he has gone out to fodder I have taken up his pen altho
probably only for a few minutes as it will be twilight very soon we have defered [sic]
writing lately hoping to hear from Julia and not hearing increases our anxiety and
makes us feel less like it but blessed be hope it springs up from the bosom of sadness
and bids us cherish the hope that she is recovering and that other circumstances
have prevented your writing I remember with feelings of regret our omission a
year ago when you were suffering so deeply on account of not hearing from our
loved sister yet we wished to write encouragingly so put off from day to day I
have lived over again those days of anxiety and suffering they are deeply graven
on my heart I believe it is just a year this day since her remains were
committed to the earth ---- it is sweet to dwell on her many virtues it
stimulates too to the endeavor to live as She lived that we too may attain
the goal at last--- What a deplorable condition the Irish are in the
future is indeed appalling to contemplate I see very little to hope for
in the present state of things among them of the evil being remedied
our orthodox friends are more alive in their feelings respecting their sufferin^g^
and have been engaged in collecting something to aid them the subject
was introduced in their meeting and a document read from friends in Ireland
relative to the famine and the great destitution prevailing there intreating [sic]
them to contribute of the abundance they were blessed with --- also a com=
=munication from the N York friends in which they informed that they
might be at liberty to receive contributions from those not members
of our society how hateful this feeling of sectarianism is I despise it more
and more why not all unite as bretheren [sic] and sisters in so good a cause
without any allusion to sect--- however I am glad they feel it in their
hearts to do something which is far better than nothing and I do not
know as our sect have done any thing as a body if they are believe
=rs in the doctrine preached now a days we need not expect much __
“that whatever takes place is for our good else it would not be permitted”
war famine and pestilence” G F White continues to pour out the vials of his wrath
and as much to the comfort and edification of his congregation as ever-----
at the Quarterly meeting he enlarged pretty fully on the qualifications of a gospel
minister and asserted altho he might be charged with egotism that he had never
expressed any sentiment in his communications to the people for which he had
felt any compunction [or?] in other words he had been commanded to say all he had
said (this is not his language but the substance) The committee in relation
to the Marlborough affair had a wonderful time they had such different
views and such a disposition to carry them ^on the part of the administration^ made it a season of great discou
=ragement to the more moderate portion of them Nathaniel Merritt showed
himself and I doubt not great good will arise from it also several others
revealed their true characters, but I cannot tell you now about it Isaac Rush
=more say’s [sic] he never felt so much like giving all up as he does now he
is really discouraged—even R Seaman S. J. Underhill L Thorne and others oppose
firmly the doings of the New York clique –- time will make manifest
the result –- in Philadelphia too the climax has nearly arrived I think
recent developements [sic] there shew it to be so - - - What do you
think of Douglass s [sic] being [bought?] there seems to be different views relative
thereto we thought Henry C Wright’s letter rather weak on that subject
When we were in New York we spent part of an evening with L Maria Child
she was in better spirits than usual and of course exceedingly interesting
Oliver too went there to meet us so we had quite a feast of intellectual
dainties --- such treats are few and far between perhaps we enjoy them
the better tho Jacob Willets remains very low the [sores?]] very
large and deep takes 2 hours daily to dress them is resigned and pleasant
his uncle Jacob and family are still here away they would be glad to
find an opening sufficient to warrant their remaining Jacob has talked
some of trying to get a farm on our Island--- he has spent some time around
here his wife and daughters have not been up Mary Frost is quite as well as she
was last fall hope she will improve more Isaac Downing is deceased was
buried the day uncle Henry was --- we come home from New York in a
dreadful storm of wind and rain we were not fully sensible of its severity until
we got the ferry I felt as tho it was rash to venture to cross however we got over safe
(Page 2)
They have had a very anxious time at Matthews on account of their little
Caroline she has been very ill the Dr said occasioned by worms had fits
high fever and much pain did not have her senses near all of the time
aunt Lizzy too was very sick the latter part of Caroline’s sickness she
remains very feeble but calls herself a little gaining, Caroline better Matthew
had scarcely recovered from a very severe attack of ashma [sic] of 2 weeks
continuance not being able to lay down and scarcely to breathe some of the
time --- Robert Post and Daniel Titus have gone in Dutches [sic] County
a visit we suspect Robert is willing to see if there be any fine girl
there who might suit him – we know nothing of course of his intention
Henry has a second son Uncle Robert seems like an old man
made us a visit yesterday aunt Rachel is as well as usual ----
I had no expectation of scribling [sic] on so much and laid it down to leave
it for Joseph but he has got engaged this morning so I concluded it had
better go but you must know I feel no pride in sending such a letter
as this is perhaps if you can excuse this I may possibly do a little better
next time
[Text in Center of Page, written upward]
North Hempstead
Feb 11th
Isaac Post
Rochester
New York
[Text at bottom of page, normal]
I was glad for you when the Fair was got through with and the result
too was cheering It seems the people cannot leave off entirely the use
of eggs as arguments against AK Foster how shamefully Joshua[Lewitt?]
and others of that party act at their conventions – It seems too the [famo^u^s?]
[Streak?] letter is upp [sic] again I hoped the Liberty Party folks would do nothing
to bring that up again but so it and how true the cunning are caught
in their own craftiness but I must close as it is now 12 oclock [sic] and [illegible]
are [illegible] Lucy is away this week so I have all the house to myself
or rather the work –-- write soon for we feel anxious to hear from
Julia and the rest of you and I think we may answer it sooner
if that is any inducement Love to all our friends Farewell Mary
(Page 1)
Westbury 2nd mo 9th 1847
Dear Realitves [sic]
We received your letter soon after it
was mailed. we feel anxious to here [sic] from Julia again hopeing [sic]
to here [sic] of her recovery , you proberbly [sic] have heard of Uncle
H^e^nry Post death before this he was sick about 3 weeks taken
with sickness at his stomach which lasted we heard for nearly
2 weeks. Aunt Sarah said he seemed very comfortable and
felt nothing in his way desired his love given to his friends
nameing [sic] his near relations generaly [sic] Sarah and Catharine
were at Cincinnati and did not get home untill [sic] a few
hours after his death . The funeral to [sic] place last 3 day the 2nd
of the month or rather the deposit. we meet [sic] at the house at half
past 3 oclock [sic] they had a Priest the service prety [sic] short we
[illegible] could not hear so as to understand much, it is not customary
for the woman to go to the church , so the men went as they
entered the door the Priest began to read and read did not
wait for the people to get in and then read a long prayer
and then dismised [sic] us the corps [sic] were left their [sic] to be put in
the vault to be removed to Greenwood Cemetary. [sic] We keep
to our sect so much as to attend the annual ^Quarterly^ meetings you understa^n^
[sic] that Cornwell Quarterly meeting was laid down and attacth [sic] to
Westbury, and that Marlbougher [sic] monthly do not send represenative [sic]
to the Quarterly meeting . the fall Quarter appointed a large
committee who reported that most of their number had attended
and gave such advice as seemed best , that they gave very little
encouragement of sending to our meeting that they thought their [sic]
was room for more labour . The meeting united with the report
and was continue the committee except Amos Willets and one
or two others Nathaniel Merritt who was one of the committee
and could not have his own way proposed to have an addition
to the number, which was objected ^to^ very much by a number
of the committee , but as their [sic] seemed no way for the New York
administration to carry points but by addition they urged
that point and got 11 ^men^ added to their number and 8 women the men
strong [torry?] party what the result will be I know not nor do
I feel very anxious; it seems to have one effect to open the
eyes of some who have united with the party against the right
but wither [sic] they will stand or fall back with the party is to be seen
(Page 2)
We attend the monthly meeting of New York George F White came
out against Temperance Anti Slavery and Peace Societys [sic] [awfully?]
called them iniquitous associations. that early Friends suffered
imprisonment that some of the persecutors were so cruel that
they would even keep part of their alowance [sic] of bread and water
that now thouse [sic] societies would resourt [sic] to the same means
to accomplish their ends. that the Peace society in particular
he seem to dwell on, and as far as ^I^ could discouver [sic] the meeting
generaly [sic] drinked it down for law and Gospel , I the last meeting was
very long, they had a case of an individual under dealing for not attend=
=ing ^meeting^ and being an odd fellow. the month before the meeting
had decided that it was incompatable [sic] for a friend to belong
to the odd fellows , but now they did not seem willing ^to say^ that
every one must be disowned for being of that society, they discussed it
a long time, some thought the discipline would disown them
others thought it would not. they nominated about 30 of their
number to take the subject under consideration and report
next month. I think some of their doings seems verry [sic] much like
straining at a gnat and swallowing a camel. they disown for
haveing [sic] a piano and yet take no notice of an accordion, if one
is rong [sic] why not the other. or if one is not rong [sic] why is the other
We have had quite a stur [sic] in the corn market the [buyers?]
began to buy for 72 Cts per bushel of 56 [illegible symbol] accounts from
England caused it raise to 80 Cts 90 Cts and to 1$ and some even higher
I believe many thousand bushels have gone off of our Island
it has been quit [sic] differcult [sic] to get cars fast enough to
accommodate the farmers. our crop rather light and
fatting cattle we have not sold any wheat some places has
been selling for 11 [illegible symbol] per bushel for good much wheat about
here shrunk some, cattle high cows from 20 to 50 dollars
each common good ones from 30 to 40 oxen to work very high
Uncle John and Aunt Sarah appear to enjoy liveing [sic] by themselves
very much , they have taken Phebe to the Asylum to, which
appears very satisfactory to relations and neighbours for I
and I think they would enjoy life as well if ^it^ had been years
ago . Williams seems to be following on in the tracks of his
Father that is to part with the good young horses and to have
old low priced ones, they have not a horse now worth 50 dollars on the
farm I think
[Following Page written by Mary Robbins Post to Isaac Post and transcribed as 675_02_09_1847]
(Page 1)
Westbury 11th month 22nd 1846
Dear Brother
I received thy letter yesterday
about noon In the spring of 1844 J. Hallowell
was at our house and wanted to sell me some
his half of the Property that we owned together
for the note that I held against Post & Hallowell
and pay aunt Phebe Carpenter for he had agreed
with Isaac to pay her. that he wanted to pay her
off very much . we did not bargain while ^he was^ here
After he got home he wrote me on to me on the
subject. The following is an extract from his letter
“Because in my arrangement with Isaac I am
to pay them” In another letter dated ten day [sic] later
he says “ After writing to thee a few days since
I find that I can pay Aunt Phebe Carpenter in
another way than to ask thee to” I do not remember
that he ever told me the particularsof ^any thing about^ your agree =
ment
We have had three weeks of cloudy weather
and east wind nearly all the time with considerable
rain. it is now very warm weather for so late in
the season . I heard yesterday that Robert W Mott
of Great Neck had hung himself he had been in a
low state of mind for some time. Aunt Sarah
[R?] Titus has been quit [sic] sick since Edmund & Julia were here
has gained so that she went to New York on 6th day
the first of her going out. they have taken Robert
to the Asylum which we and I believe all that
are acquainted with the family approve of. Ann’s
baby seems now gaining . George Willets has made
a visit he has had the fever & ague for near two months
he had not heard any thing about Benjamin leaveing [sic]
home or of his said he spent the day with them lately
and that he was at home when he came down
George say [sic] that his mother seems now prety [sic] well
(Page 2)
I suppose Edmund told you about our monthly meeting when
they were here but I now remember that we wrote about it
Rachel has been and made her visit and last 4 day returned
her minute with the information that she had preformed [sic]
the visit to the satisfaction of her own mind.
Isaac & Mary F have lost their youndest [sic] child it has been
such a poor little it seems cause joy rather than sorrow
died in the evening and buried next afternoon very few
of the neighbours hereing [sic] of it untill [sic] after it was
buried Johns ^family^ & Henry Willis James Post wife and daughter
Sp Stephen & Amy Rushmore Esther Willets and Mary R
Post had not time to send in the lot for Robert and Edward
Willets had gone to Hempstead and did not here [sic] of it and
Elizabeth Cock attended the funeral and I beleave [sic]
they were about all that knew of except the Brothers
I laid this by yesterday morning to prepare for meeting
after meeting Father Mother and John Carpenter & Hannah
came home with us … in the evening we went to uncle
Roberts with them Hannah is own cousin to Father
a few years younger than Mary . Father some time ago
was thrown geting [sic] in a sulky the ^horse^ got frighted brock [sic]
something and turned it over and [stunned?] him for
the time since which he can see but poorly with
one eye He had much pain in his head and eyes
for a number of days. Rachel in monthly meeting
spoke of the judgments of the Lord in the earth
while some places it seems almost necesary [sic] for some
pull down their barns and build greater ^some^ were suffring [sic]
for the want of sustenance[sic], that wars and famine out
to was or ought to cause to bow to the Lord that
he is able to blast any or all of the products of the
earth, this is the substance of what she said but not the
words Arden Seaman was at meeting and at the clouse [sic]
of the last meeting he ^quoted^ the language to Cain if thou
doest well shalt thou not be acxcepted [sic] but if not sin
lyeth at the door and went on to say that we brought
the judgments on ourselves for if we went counter to
established laws we had to ^suffer^ in consequence spoke well I thought
Respectfully, Joseph Post
Westbury 10 mo 18th 1846
Dear Relatives
Edmund and Julia left us last evening
have made us a very pleasant visit although so many
places to call had to hurry to much. We seem to move
on much in same manner we have done for a year
or two past in our neighbourhood Hannah Fish was
buried last 4 day week suffered much . her property we
here [sic] she has given mostly to poorish folks from one
to seven hundred dollars in a place Mary R Post 300$
and the residue to Abram Hicks and Silas Weeks children
3 of them . The sickness among horses I believe has abated
I have heard of it estermated [sic] that 1100 had died in the
County I think likely worth 50$ per head many have
lost their only horse . and will strainten them to get another
Last 4 day was our monthly meeting quries answered much
after the usual way marriage attended to , and enquiry
of women for buisness [sic] . who informed that there was some
for us and presently Rachel came in with a concern
to attend ninepartners and S^t^anford Quarterly meetings
a number united with her . Gigeon Frost arose and
very nicely said he had rather she would stay at home
which called out some more unity . a minute was
mad saying the meeting concluded to leave her at
liberty she being a minister in unity. and then
I felt as though it be best for me to tell the meeting
that I had not had unity with some of her [illegible]
views held up of later time. which called forth from
Rachel a justification of herself sayined [sic] she beleived [sic]
she had not held any views contrary to friends writing
and that if she said any thing not satisfactory it would
be well to come to her . Robert Seaman was at
meeting he thought it was not the place to make
personal charges that this seemed like a charge
Henry Lawson was here and he too said a good deal
about making objections saying that it was out
of place all of which seemed to be in reply to
(Page 2)
what I had said they said so much . that I told them
that I was not aware that I had said any thing contrary
to discipline Rachel seting [sic] by all the time much
said a bout requiring to get so deep before making
objections that it brought Edmund Willets up he was
sorry to here so much thought it required as much
depth to unite as to disunite, alltogether [sic] it caused
quite a sanction in the meeting Samuel Mott
said he did not know that he had a judgment in the
case but would have been glad if the friend could
have felt easy to staid at home . It may be you will
say it is better to leave sutch [sic] a society I have though
much on the subject . and whn I cannot do what I
believe to by my duty I think it will be time to do so
I think sometimes there is some danger of geting [sic] so out
with sect as to be read sectarians against sect.
To be [illegible] many things in society I do not approve of
and also some things in the antislavery society and
nonresistant that I do not unite with . which would
be best in such a case to keep along as I am or give
all up and work alone in We are now gathering our
corn prety [sic] good sound but many small ears has been selling
better than almost any grain , hay now sell from 3/6
to 5 1 per cut the more common price 4 to 4/6 from
some cause or other I think farmers here away has
prety [sic] [illegible] times to make both ends meet nicely unless
those that are a little better qualified than the majority
stock of all kinds high that is poor stock .
Quarterly meeting this week what will be done with the
marlbourer folks if they should not conclude , to send
representatives I do not know but I think some of
our strong orthodox do want to bring them under very
much We have heard they have sent a remonstrance
to the yearly meeting through the committee against being
united to this Quarterly meeting . some We are preparing
to go to New York most close this time. with
love to all . Remain as ever your Brother Joseph Post
(Page 1)
[Text in top margin, written downward]
[Continued from page 2 with line ending “fear he cannot”]
come yet---
Perhaps Joseph
may have a message
so I will leave
a little corner
the girls say
do give our
love to uncle
Isaac’s folks
first day have
just been to meeting
had Aidon [?]to
minister for us &
quite a reasonable
sermon Joseph
is expecting to
go to south
tomorrow the
weather bein [sic] so
dull has not been
down since they
[moved?]
Thomas Whitson
we heard to day
was very low not
expected to survive
the day
I left a little
corner for J he
is engaged reading
says he has nothing
special but love
to insert-___
so again farewell
write write
[Text normal]
It is not worth while to read this until you 29 of 8 month
are at leisure for there is nothing important
Dearly Beloved Our cousins William and Phebe Titus
are contemplating a little tour I felt an impulse to take
my pen again altho [sic] we have just dispached [sic] a paper me=
=senger [sic] but as it is one of the most pleasing offices conected [sic]
with social intercourse I gladly avail myself of every opportu
=nity of this kind altho [sic] at present somewhat of an invalid
but that is nothing very strange as I still have the asthma
and have for some time nights when I have been tolerably
comfortable through the day but now it has not passed off as
usual--but enough of complaining for I often feel thankful
for so good health as I am now blessed with ---
I spent fifth day at father’s mother more poorly
suffers much with severe pain sickness at her stomach and
debility which connected with her many cares I fear will
prove too much and ^it^ causes us much anxiety---
Isaac Ketcham was poorly too probably produced by over
exertion John had been up the river and William on the
meadow so that Isaac had had more to attend to they
had got him in a sweat and had taken medicine so that
they hoped he would be releived [sic] I hope he may their portion
has been to suffer and they cannot well pass through
another such trial -- Cousin Anna Chapman made us
quite a visit on their return from Saratoga Josiah remained
at Brooklyn I could not avoid a feeling of sadness when I
think of him his declining health yet measurably filled with
hope-- it might be for his mother’s sake that he tried to beg
=uile her of her fears -- she says she cannot call the loss
of her children afflictions for she believes [sic] it was all right and
it has been sanctified to her --- this doctrine is all the
go now with some of our would be expounders of Divine
and holy things we heard a short time since from the high
place in our synagog [sic] “that formerly when the judgments of
the Lord were in the earth the people learned wisdom
and it remained to be the case to some extent-- now
[Continues on page 2 with line beginning “among those we call pagan’s”]
(Page 2)
[Text in top margin, written downward]
[continued from page 3 with the line ending “than I was”]
the last spring
of their contri
=vance and
scheming___
There is so much
I want to say
to you which
cannot
be written
that will leave
off pretty soon
It begins to
look like fall
the Catydids[sic] have
made their appearance
and now [crowd?]
other insects
with their varied
notes
“The music of an August eve
Unlocks the fount of pensive Thought
And breaths of Beauty taking leave
In tones with melting sweetnes [sic] fraught
Far in the mossy forrest [sic] stirred
By the low wind are voices heard
consorting with its gloom
They tell of summer on the wane
And flowers that thirst for dew in vain
Around her opening tomb.”
We have been
looking for
Oliver some time
now Mary Ann
is poorly so I
fear he cannot
[Continues in top margin of page 1 with line beginning “come yet”]
[Text Normal]
[Continued from page 1 with line ending “to some extent now”]
among those we call pagan’s or heathen that when any calami
-ty of evil came upon them they humbled themselves and by
a self examination [saw?] what they had done to cause so great
an evil to be sent upon them and but now how was it when
calamitys [sic] and evils came upon us were we humbled thereby and
taught to learn wisdom? she believed not there was a disposition
to attribute it to some cause the infringement of established
regulations and laws and she thought it would be well for some
to learn of those called heathen--- she could not attribute accident
and casualties to chance &c &c --- and in conclusion said the prayer
of her spirit was that (those who were attributing much to a violation
of laws and regulations I suppose she meant) their trials and afflicti
-ons might be multiplied upon them until they should acknowledge
that the Lord ruled in the kingdoms of men that he set up and
pulled down whomsoever he would &c &c
What nice times they are having in England
now what an interesting letter that is from R D Webb also from
H C Wright just after Garrisons arrival how I rejoice in the feeling
that the British people appreciate him as he ought to be appreciated
and the sentiment of some of the Irish that they would rather see WLG
than fifty Prince Alberts how [thrilling?] H C Wright meeting him must
have been as he expresses it his dear, single hearted, world loving, sternly up=
right, Garrison the man and the Christian of the nineteenth ct – but you
have doubtless read and enjoyed as we have done so I need not
say more of his reception How much there is occurring of deep interest
to us which is lost (to nearly all around us) and how I wish they
could become interested for it seems to me there is comparatively
nothing so fraught with interest and good and pebut little worth living
for unless we are doing what our hands find to do_ “In the morning
sow thy seed and in the evening withhold not thy hand” has been beautifu
-lly exemplified in the faithfulness of many of our abolition friends in
sowing the good seed___ Have you seen E [Stablers?] memoir’s [sic] being
principly [sic] letters to different individuals? what I have read have been
interesting and a paragraph in one I will copy as it seems, to
suit or apply with ^as^ much force to things in society now as it did
[Continues on page 3 with line beginning “at the time it was written”]
(Page 3)
[Text in top margin, written downward]
[Continued from page 4 with line ending “Charles Frost]
I perceived was
bent on his remo
=val–when he
was in N Y
said much about
it that it was
necessary to have
a friend there
who understood
farming the
present one
was a mechanic
that it was
important to
get some one
who would
go from [duty?]
and not for
pecuniary
reward which
he thought was
the case now
there is so much
contriving and
planning I
think in the
[wile?] of man
I feel but
little unity
or interest
in them I
never was
more sick
than I was
[Continues in top margin of page 2 with line beginning “the last spring”]
[Text Normal]
[Continued from page 2 with line ending “in society now as it did”]
at the time it was written which was about the time of the sep-
-aration he says “I therefore cannot but rejoice at the present state of
things, (tho it is the cause of much mourning to many) because I see in
it the influence of a power that is stirring up the stagnant pool of religious
profession which like that at Bethsada has yielded no healing influence
to those who have been immersed in it. But these commotions are working
wonderfully in the minds of all who are disposed to learn the Truth for
themselves by making in their own hearts a separation between the
precious and the vile __ between the living and the dead. They are
showing them the difference between the systems of man which
are formed of doctrines creeds and opinions and which the worst
of human beings can get by rote and repeat as well as the best ---
and that immeasurable host of living powers which are in their na-
=ture destructive of all evil: and under the influence of which
man cannot be the servant of sin.” I too rejoice in the present
commotion and believe good will result therefrom When at
Jericho Aunt Mary came to fathers she inquired when we had
received letters from you I told her it was a long time since
but Julias letters informed us of one being on the way giv [obliterated]
an account of C L [Remands?] meeting &c which we had not recei
=ved _ she remarked that that seemed to be your life and she
hoped we would encourage one another aright. it was a subject
she knew very little about so of course could not write about it
said she had just that week put a letter in the office for you
In the letter before I mentioned [Huldah’s?] prospect
of going home being married &c we have since heard from her
and every thing is indefinitely postponed on account of her fathers
going on a religious visit to Michigan Ilinois [sic] an extensive
visit probably be about 3 months [absent?]
I am glad William and Phebe are going hope they will
enjoy themselves they have been very little from home but
with such good children for caretakers at home I should think
they could not fail to enjoy their visit---how I should love
to accompany them if other duties had not a prior claim
on me as it is I feel that home is the place How grateful
(Page 4)
[Text in top margin, written downward]
I always
think when
I finish a
letter I never
will send so
poor a letter
in every sense
of the word
again but as
I am frequently
in a hurry I
scribble as fast
as I can hoping
to do better soon
that time has
not come yet
perhaps it will
so “hope on hope
ever” Does friend
Potter visit youy [sic]
yet why dont
you let us kno
-w all about
you we feel
as tho we might
What kind of
a friend is
Andrew [Varnery?]
the committee
think he is loo-
king after the
loaves and fishes
so of course he
is to go--- but
I am thinking
whether there
is not another
cause tho kept
out of sight his
libiral [sic] views Charles Frost
[Text Normal top section]
it would be to us all and particularly so to [Henry’s?] family if
Julia felt as though she could return with W and P her visit
would not be so very long and we would gladly do all in our
power to render it as pleasant as it could be without her E
I had been thinking whether the time had not come for William
and Mary to journey this way I do not like so long a time to
pass away without a greeting I beleive [sic] we are designed for social
beings and as we are careful in our associations together we shall
find an increase of those feelings which bind together in bonds not
easily broken our love most affectionately to both W and M and E & Julia
[Text Middle Section running bottom to top]
Isaac Post
Attention Rochester
of W Titus NY
[Text Normal bottom section]
How glad we should be to see you all indeed we feel so alone now
that I almost imagine it is your duty to come--- but oh what a blank
you would find which none can fill ---you cannot imagine how
much we miss her our dearly loved sister
Cant you write oftener it is ever most gratifying to hear from
you and may He who watches over his children be round
about to sustain and bless the loved ones of of your home
Farewell and when you do so remember you attached sister
Love to dear Sarah and the boys Mary W Post
(Page 1)
[Text above written by Joseph Post to Isaac Post and is transcribed as 655_05_29_1846]
degradation of this country in
relation to slavery the extupation [sic] of the aboriginese [sic] and now in
relation to this war with Mexico and the position we were calld [sic]
on to maintain of the probably suffering it might involve us
in if faithful to our convictions of right __ C C Burleigh too was
very excellent allways [sic] and it pleased me to see Garrison nods of
assent Garrison was as great as every Pillsbury too and many
other but as
(Page 1)
My dear brother and Sister I have taken up my pen to inquire into the
cause of your very long silence, are you in health? if so are you so engrossed
with the things of time as to wholly exclude your Island friends? I cannot
believe it possible - then why do you delay writing how I wish you were here
what a nice chat we might have together - Joseph has gone to meeting
the children to school - Powel and our girl are away keeping Christmas's
and I am alone on the premises - yesterday you were almost constantly
in my mind and I wished very much to take up my pen but other duties
demanded the sacrifice, and will again claim the same very soon, how
much of our time is consumed in toiling - toiling and how few learn to live
There is so much I wish to say that I know not where to begin but all ^ I can do^ [obliterated]
is to begin Mary P Titus a few weeks back received a letter from Michigan
giving account of Stephen's indisposition soon another of his increased
illness and in about 2 weeks one of his death and particulars of his
sickness he had been poorly 3 months had a constant fever and grew
weaker without much pain had several doctors one Thompsonian [sic] but
all their efforts were unavailing they discovered an abcess [sic] in his side 2 or
3 weeks before his death he probably had the hasty consumption he was
very patient and resigned through all - it was a great shock to them
and exceedingly triying [sic] but I think they bear it with much fortitude
At our last monthly meeting the proposition relative to holding it a part
of the time at Matinicock was united with by a few I thought it was
rather dull our side it was said that it would probably be a benefit to society
Rachel got a minute to visit some of the familys [sic] in the quarterly Meet
ing Elizabeth Leedon has been engaged in a similar visit and has not got through
Rachel intends joining her she ^Elisabith [sic]^ is in NY John Halloe has been around here some
time he too wishes to be preaching his minute does not give him liberty to appoint
meetings so he is brought into difficulty at monthly meeting he wished to
have a meeting appointed for him at Hempstead Harbor but way did not
open for it he said he had been waiting for John Plummer but he was
not ready yet - I think I wrote relative to Maria Farrington - well poor Maria
has had quite an ordeal to pass through the men's meeting decided her gift
insufficient and the information to be given to the select meeting that
way did not open - we hear she was eulogised excessively G.F. White said
he believed it originated in the truth and also thought the decision of the mon
(Page2)
[Text Normal]
meeting right (so we hear the same day he came and in the first meeting
terribly against every thing good was very personal in his remarks might
as well named J S Hopper - among other things said abolitionism was dead
and was working itself off in the sewers of the Fourrierism Isaac is now engag
ed in a society lately formed (the proon association) the first object of
which is to reform the prisoners by encouraging what is good in them
and when discharged to render which advice and assistance as well
be most likely to guide them into the paths of useful industry and
virtue this too is worthy to be censured by this notorious G F White
I am compelled to say farewell for the present 26th again I am seated to
hold a few minutes converse with you last 7 day evening while at the tea table
(uncle James's children and some others being with us) we were summoned by a
rap at the door and to our joy Oliver Johnson stood before it the evening
was spent very pleasantly our company appeared to enjoy it very much I
was glad of the opportunity hopeing [sic] it would remove the prejudice felt
towards them in an especial manner - on the morrow he accompanied
us to meeting - Timothy had much to say on slavery war &c after which Oliver rose
and spoke of Christianity it s effects and how beautifully portray'd [sic] in the parable
of the good Samaratan [sic] quoting from A certain lawyer asked what shall I do to
inherit eternal life Luke 10-25 to the 38 verse spoke of the priest Levite and
Samaratan [sic] most beautifully and of the brotherhood of the whole human
family - and although we were not the same communion yet he felt
while sitting together that your God is my God and your father my father
we thought him very much favored as friends say - but good as it was
it provoked the high displeasure of sectarian's – tho [sic] while he was
speaking it was as still as possible except a little uneasiness in
some of our high seat occupants uncle Robert particularly Rachel's
countenance changed and portrayed the feelings of her heart
We had concluded to hold a meeting in the afternoon in the school
house (orthodox) for a lecture on slavery we informed the people after meet
William I lack with much apparent feeling told Joseph he was sorry to hear
it for we have had trouble enough now - the meeting was held and
near 40 principly [sic] children and young people uncle James's girls expressed
then joy when I told them of the meeting and said we will come but grandm
other Willis was there and made opposition to it so they all except uncle James
who almost ran away staid at home she did not wish them to go and give them
any countenance for far he might give further trouble - however we
had quite a good meeting without them in his talk he said if you can
[Continues on Page 3 with line beginning “stand by my side”]
[Text at bottom of page, between normal lines, written upside down]
7 day evening we had a very busy day have got Elizabeth moved and
if Joseph and William Wood had not assisted in moving and arrangeing [sic]
things which was a great job, there seemed to be so little room for them we
have taken some things there - It is quite a relief that the vending movein [sic]
and all that is got through with - I am right glad cousin Samuil [sic] can
appreciate Joseph's service's Elizabeth said he felt much obliged to Joseph for
his assistance and believed it made 100 $ perhaps more difference his
bidding - but Robert W Titus we hear thought it was not very neighbourly [sic] for
Joseph Post to bid so much – Theres [sic] no pleasing all is there? I hope you will
get this in the day timly [sic] for it will be God to read and perhaps you may
wish for an abrigment [sic] - Mother's Finger is but little different yet
suffers much. Phebe and Catharine are making a visit in New York
Aunt Rachel has been pretty smart this winter will I am tired and sleepy
and will again say Farewell I must try to send it off pretty soon on your may
wish I had not begun First day afternoon we have all been to meeting and Joseph
has gone back to the meeting house Thomas [Everitpunin’s?] daughter is to be buried
she has been sick a long while with consumption - I feel sad and dispirited
this afternoon how often when I have felt that in times past have we gone
over to see cousin William and in the interchange of thought been releived [sic] from
many a gloomy hour but that is past and now there seems to be no one of conge
-nial spirit (near enough) to mingle with - true we have many kind friends
around us but not one to whome [sic] we can open the every feeling as we were wont to
do to William - some how I need such a friend perhaps more than most
which may account to you for the wish I have aft times expressed for your
return to Long Island Charles Post expects to do something more for himself than he
been doing I do not know what Samuel Persons son’s wished him to take his farm or
rather a part of the old Bowne farm Charles went to see him yesterday but thought it
would not answer at all I believe[sic] Do you know Leonard Scaring is an assembly
man he and wife were at meeting here a week ago he looked mighty nice
Rebecca expects to spend the winter here Richard and Phebe Albertson, have moved from
the place his father lived on to the one Richard Scaring used to own I believe it is that
one - I was glad they moved for I expect it was not very pleasant living with
Sarah from report We want to hear from you exceedingly we very much
fear you are sick or why don't you write to somebody and not a few lines but a
long letter telling about every thing we want to know
With much love to all our relatives and friends if there be any such I am
Affectionately your sister Mary W Post
(Page 3)
[Text continued from Page 3 with line ending “he said if you can”]
stand by my side and labor for the oppressed ^I should [illegible]^ but if you cannot stand
there stand by yourselves_ but I entreat you to stand firmly and placid
on behalf of crushed humanity - he commenced with quoting this very appropriate
scripture "But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest[sic]: far as concurring this
sect I we know that every where it is spoken against We hope a little good is
gained but as times almost despair believing there is not moral courage enough
when convinced to stand the opposition - Timothy made some remarks in
which he said it was evident parents did not consider it a bad cause if they
had any fear's on that hand he thought they would prefer coming themselves
to having the children exposed - but in regard to the preaching I believe there is
quite a hubbub about it - tho what he said is admitted by all to be good - it was
contrary to our order just say evening several days have elapsed and I have not been
able to add a sentence to my scrawl neither have we hard from you yet.
did you know how grateful it would be to us surely you not delay so long ag ^ain^
I said that J S Happen was engaged in the prison dicipline association - he came to be
one of the associates before the public without seeking for it - he some time since
went with Oliver Johnson to Sing Sing (Mary Ann is an assistant matron there) and the
prisoners were assembled for meeting Isaac spoke to them feelingly and appropriately
[obliterated] many being affected to tears - about this time the association was formed
some of whome [sic] were acquainted with Isaac's visit and also with his persuasive
eloquence thought who is there that would do better to press [upon?] the comm ^unity^
the wants of such a rejoin than he - the [obliterated] committee of arrangement for the mili ^tary^
announced the speakers Isaac was to be one of well some of the friends heard that
they were very kindly volunteered to inform against Isaac and so far prevailed as to have
Isaac's name struck from the list Oliver who by the way is head man next to Greely
in the Tribune after sound what was going on - went to see some of the commute
and explained to them and notice was given out that he would be one of the
speakers - what a malignant wicked spirit thine friends manifest I am really
at times [obliterated] ^[illegible]^ of my connection with them – dont you get disgusted sometimes
too with the hypocrisy in high places - I feel that the bonds are growing weaker in
witnessing the selfrighteousness [sic] of some who are looked up to as leader's – We
want to hear what you have done with B Fish and how the community gets along
from what we hear the Skaneatelas [sic] one looks something like a farline [sic] ----
we also want to hear about E P Willis whether he is really visiting a certain lady
as report say's - for it is very unpleasant to be behind the times therefore please inform
report says too that W Post is visiting E Lawrence - we fear it is not correct but
"hope on hope ever" there is some talk of Rachel Post and Benj Underhill how true I do
not know also that Daniel Underhill visits Thomas Underhills - Mary R Post has gone
to Henrys to stay some weeks - In all my letters lately I have told of the trials
difficulties &c of poor E P Willits she has for some time been anxious to break up and
go 5 her grandmothers - uncle Robert not willing to have a vendue and
it was concluded to favo [sic] Robert Titus to take all except what Elizabeth wan
for her use at the inventory Robert however because so uneasy that has
have concluded to have a vendue next 6 day E looked sad to day and
asked if it would not be too react a tax for my company I expect to be
there as much as I can this week she needs all the sympathy and help too
which I have to sustain her ^it is^ New Year ^today^ and I wish you a happy new year - and in
the language of our favorite Lck Child a year of brave conflict with evil within and
without - a year of sinless victorys [sic] - how many reflections come pressing on the heart
the past present and the future all crowded together in reviewing the past I feel that
truly I am not what I should have been had I lived up to the law of love “But hail to the
New Year” and I fondly hope to live more in accordance therewith during this week I
have been very much [obliterated] ^occupied^ and I did not know but Joseph would finish this but as
he has not I will proceed with my story - we went to Jericho yesterday to see mother
she has a very had hand or finger probably a felon has not slept scarcely for a week fever
and much pain in her head and extreme pain in the finger with fainting turn's – tried
many things yesterday I wanted them to apply soft soap and chalk to it - there was a
very little opening where it discharged a very little we put it on and I thought run more
than at any time but a very little - it looked so bad I could scarcely see it at all
Have you heard any thing of the difficulties Eastward - we hear they have separated
in the monthly and quarterly meeting and expect them will be a separation in the
yearly meeting Phebe Gifford has written particulars but we hear very little but
from what we do hear I conclude she is very much opposed to the Wilborites
(and they are opposed to J J Quincy) in her letter speaking of the separation she says it
seemed like children's play to see half a dozen men and 3 or 4 women separate and
she thought if the Philadelphia friends knew how it was they would be ashamed of
encouraging them __ has Phebe forgotten the remnant which separated in 1828 or
is this a more childish affair she spoke of Johnathon Wilbors coming to their meeting
took his seat head preached - and broke up the meeting too - she and Isaac were not at
meeting being from home - we miss mother very much in very many way's too – the
back room looks very desolate the things are all here yet Henry's folks have been
here only once since the funeral Henry had mothers will with him by which it
appears every thing is given to Phebe except Pliphin and Edmund Rushmore have 250 a
(Page 4)
peice [sic] - she gave our girls a few things several years ago Catharine Willis is
better again we have been looking daily for she and Phebe to spend some days here
Dont you feel sorry there is such a muss about the Herald I expected better things of
Rodgers he is so clearly in the wrong ^in my opinion in my opinion^ how nobly J J Foster acted dont you admire
Garrison in this affair so firm so unwavering even when the task is exceedingly
painful to him they have loved and labored in this work through good and through evil
report and now to be compelled by circumstances to censure such an one must
be a great trial to his feeling heart - Oliver told us Rodgers and wife were at
Frances Jacksons and he hoped all would come around right - he said too that
J R French is courting Rodjers daughter which accounted to my mind for the
influence French has with Rodjers- I sometimes fear for myself I so love and reverence
Garrison - that if he should possibly get in the wrong I should not see it and his
closing remarks in the last Liberator relative to the Herald of Freedom
^were very impressive^ Is this maxim “that the king can do no wrong" to be received by abolitionists
in relation to any one of their number? If so the reign of idolatry has begun
among us and we are cursed with a curse. Perhaps no one else has ever
felt a similar feeling to this - and this likeness as I look at it almost allway's [sic]
calms and tranquilizers and nerves to new conflicts you will smile at this
but never mind - I suppose John Ketchams family are preparing for William's mariage [sic]
there will be quite a change when all three of them children go off. What do you
think of Phebes prospect - We hear you have been moving on a farm how does it
happen have you sold or let the old home or do you prefer the country in the winter ^sea^ son
I must again say farewell 3rd of 1st month well this has been a day of great stir and commotion and
we have just returned to our quiet home but the evening is nearly spent and I can hold
but a few minutes converse with you for I must rise early to bake and do my 7 days
work in order to go over for the last time to assist Elizabeth she wants to get moved
tomorrow. Joseph and self have been there this week much of the time - It brings all
the feeling of bereavement fresh to mind - it look desolate indeed to see things [sea
taid?]
[Text middle, written upwards]
Jericho N.Y. 184
Jan 7th
Isaac Post
Rochester
NY
[Text in Bottom Margin, Normal]
how little worth our while it seemed to endeavors to accumulate nice things
cousins Samuel and Edmund Daniel were up from NY uncle and Aunt Mary will commence
housekeeping tomorrow after Elizabeth leaves they will feel very lonely indeed as they
have no help either man or woman yet - but likely Robert and Esther will get there
pretty soon how Esther will get along is yet to be seen - but from recent occurrences
I fear she has yet to learn to bear little crosses without a frown at best our cousins
Stephen and Maria have had a valuable New Year's present a fine boy little Stephen
I suppose - Edmund and Martha talk more of moving in the country they had nearly given
out until lately - We have heard with Richard [Hunt?] and Elisabeth [Mcclintoc?] being in N York
we should have been very glad if they could have visited us - do when you see any of [Thom?]
family remember us very affectionately to them and assume them we should
rejoice in welcoming them here - cant they come to attend the anniversary in the
spring and make us a visit - What have you done for the fair has it been sent to Boston
again farewell for to night
(Page 1)
[Text in top margin, written upward]
Isaac
is to
write
some to go with
this &
I am in
hopes he
has done
much
better
than
I how
he likes
living
here I
do not
know
I do
not see
much
of him
Julia
has a cold I
tell E
it does not
look well
for a doct-
ors wife
to have her
cold last so
Rochester 15th 1845
Dear Sister
I have been asking I. if he is not
expecting to write home soon if so I would
like to write add something but he says
if I will write he will add & as he with
Edmund & Julia are gone to [Stittsen?]
I will commence. To begin seventh day
morning left Amy & Sarah at James
Havalands & I went to N.Y about my buisness [sic]
and returned in the afternoon found they had
been to dinner I had heard they dined late
but James did not come to dinner but Lydia
soon had something set for me Aunt Phebe
seemed rejoiced to see us. we with Lydia
went out & called on Ester she has 3 little
children so near of an age that it seems
they may be very equal play mates called
on William Renouf, 3 sisters they seem to live
very nicely. went to see J H new house it seems
very large 5 stories in the rear. Spent the
evening very pleasenty [sic] James & Phebe both
being at home she returned from Jericho at
night -- Amy & self thought best to
go to Stephen Willetts [obliterated] to lodge ar-
rived at 9. they gave us a kind welcome
their child is quite unwell with cold
first day morning went to Rose Street
meeting Carriages stood very thick in
Pearl street I could not ^tell^ why but learned
their occupants were gone to Friends meeting
on arriving found the house very much
filled Stephen took me around to the side
door were [sic] we found room near the Galery [sic]
G F Wright soon arose and said send
by whom thou will ^send^ even by me
& went on to say that the hireling mi
nisters are the greatest curse that the
Lord suffers to live that 999 out of every
1000 are Base Hipocrits [sic] &c and ^[illegible]^ felt
it it wright to turn to faith (said to
the pure all things are pure) and who
are the pure ask the Transendentalists [sic]
and they would say some of their number
and the abolitionists ^would refer^ to themselves some
of whom are fit only for scape Goats
fit only for the States Prison or the halter
(Page 2)
(of course he must be in favor of hanging)
after saying much more he turned to
the slave holder and did not leave him un-
till [sic] had he had raised him unto the
highest state of happiness singing hallu
luyas [sic] &c he being pure in heart
& then John Plummer arose & I dont
know but pretty well except he ad-
verted to what his brother had said rather
approvingly of course when one says
as much as G. did there must be some
good. but I did not see any good reason to
approve it in Public. We went to S Willetts
market Street had a very pleasant chat &
Amy staid [sic] with Sarah while we men went
to meeting G. preached again very path
etically telling some mistirous [sic] story
about ^the^ Lords bowing the heavens &
comeing [sic] down provided the tried one
will remain with his lips in the dust
&c &c went back to Cousin Samuels &
set an hour very pleasantly then went
to doctor Seamans were [sic] Sarah & Phebe
Haveland met us & James & Lydia came
in the evening at 9 we returned to Stepens [sic]
seven day morning Stephen took us
to see the wonders of the Island to the high
bridge it is a wonder full [sic] undertaking it
does seem like a great pitty [sic] to lay out
so much just to let vessels pass a very
short distance probably $500 per year wood would
more than make up all losses that can
occur by obstructing the navigation we
returned after a 4 hours ride very much
gratified spent the evening very pleasanty [sic] at Cousin
Edmunds some other of our Cousins were there next
morning to Roberts to breakfast I then went
down town town [sic] to have our things put
and met Amy & Sarah at M. Collins -- Amy
& Self went to the Antislavery Office but [Guy?]
had gone home we took seats in an Omnibus &
rode to Uncle Henry found Aunt Mary
alone Lydia & Sarrah [sic] were gone to Aunt
Rosettas at Wright store Mary to Catharines
& [Minterns?] Wife has a young son. However
we set down and had a pleasent [sic] chat with
aunt Mary. Mary [Jun?] soon came &
dinner to at 1/2 past 3 but neigh^ther^er [sic] of the
men we soon after Mintern came & at dusk
(Page 3)
Uncle Henry I think he feels better now that
he is in buisness [sic]. early in the evening we de-
parted took seats for the south fery [sic] then
seats for West ^east^ Broudway [sic] for we thought
by going to the starting place we should be
sure to get the right carriage for in the evening
it is very difficult to read what is in the side
Amy stoped [sic] at Uncle Samuel Willetts & she & Sarah
with [C R?] & wife spent the evening at Andrew Willetts
& I invited Stephen Willetts to go to [Amos?] & Joseph
Willetts we sat awhile pleasantly at [Amos’s?] and
then to Joseph, but they were gone so we went
home & I dont know who could have enjoy-
ed our company better that Maria for she &
the baby were alone. next morning that is [illegible] day
morning Joseph Willetts Maria Farrington &
soon after Joseph, wife came to call on us
J & wife went to see the exibition [sic] of [Coulered?]
orphens [sic] he was very much interested about
them & I believe our other Cousins have done much
for them & I suppose they see nothing improper
in this & yet how they blame others for doing even
less than they are doing themselves and are ready
to cast them off as being under delusion &c
I feel glad yes it ^is^ a peculiar satisfaction that
they are thus disposed to do good. is it not won-
derful to think how much can be brought
about by small individual faithfulness
it seems [20?] years ago two females commenced
with 4 or 5 little orphans in a small room &
now they have a very ^large^ house where comfort
& learning are communicated to 130 poor children
& were [sic] it is to be hoped the ground work
is laid for a life of usefullness [sic]. Cousin Joseph
said his sisterin [sic] law wished us to meet there [sic]
other cousins at ther [sic] house that eveng [sic] but
we thought it would not do to stay longer
I went down town & had our things put on
board then to Stephens Roberts to dinner &
then took leave of our Clinton Street Cousins Amy
& Sarah haveing [sic] done so before & went to [C. N.?]
Stephen came in time with his carriage to take
us to the steam boat. thus ended our very
agreeable visit in New York I think we never
made a more pleasent [sic] one & (Since I have been
home I have rembered [sic] thy [tooth man?] please
excuse me) we left N Y at five arrived at [Kingston?] at
12 found stage [slays?] in readiness to take us to Albany our
loads were very heavy but the [riding?] was good and the slays
were good & covoured [sic] we took breakfast at [Katskill?] about 6
(Page 4)
at Albany at 2 went to the Motts & made a
very good visit they read a letter from F Douglass
he writes very easy it was a good letter tells of incidents
that were not in his published letters among other things
he says if he writes or receves [sic] many letters it will bankrupt
him as all that he sends or receives [sic] he has to pay 50 cents
each. nex^t^morning [sic] very cold Thermometer 3 degrees
below Zero. we left at 1/2 past 7 and at Auburn
we had to tarry all night is it not interesting the
Cars going onely [sic] once a day & then stop all night
by the way it makes fine picking for the Taverns
we were superbly entertained at Auburn it
was very cold but we had the parlour to ourselves
& adjoining it our bedroom & adjoining that Sarahs
Room could not asked for better accomodations [sic]
& had only $2.00 to pay for all breakfast included
it was at the Auburn House. thence at 1/2 past
7 left for home & arrived at 2 met Isaac at the
car hous [sic] found all well but were a little disturbed
our Bag that contained a number ^of^ articles of some
value having been left on the way I made some
stir about it gave a discription [sic] &c and 2 day
it came on safe it having been left at Auburn
we met an abundance of Hogs that is Pork hu-
rrying on to an eastern market. Lewis [Burtis?]
is disowned by the Monthly Meeting tho he says
he is not yet disowned for he means to appeal
&c he sat alone on the high seat first day
and gave quite an exortation [sic] afternoon
anumber [sic] of our friends came and set with
us very agreeably. Sledding is good we found
a light snow but good sleding [sic] all the way
found it warmer here & I believe it has not
been so cold as further east Cousin Benjamin did
not take any pains to speak to me first day
he was silent what they will do with Lewis
I don’t [sic] know I saw B in close conversation
with our overseer and Elder [Ewer?] Sylvester
being to [sic] unwell to attend meetings & what
they have concluded upon I dont know
but I expect it provokes them very much
to have Lewis go in the Galory [sic] they seem to
wish no one to sit there and that will bring
B at the head of the meeting and when that
is settled why B will have gained his point
and there of course he will take his seat above
they now render Lewis poweless [sic] by leting [sic] no one
set with him B Coleman is unwell & therefore he can
not come we went to see him he seemed very glad
to see us. It seems to me I have written a very worth-
less letter but rest assured I should like to written a
more interesting one if it had been in my power I. Post
(Page 1)
Buffalo 9,, 18,, 1845
Dear Friend
Having an opportunity of sending
a line by Moses Wards Wife, who pass through
your city on their way home (Newark N.J.) I shall
improve the same if only to inquire after a hat
which Lydia P. Mott left on board a canal Boat
yearly meeting time and which the agent here
says was delivered by the capt. to some friend in
Rochester who had an order for the same. He could
not tell me the name. As I have to send to
Lydia a few articles left in my charge by
Joseph W. Brown Deceased. I think it best to
send the hat at the same time if I can get it.
^Please enquire of Lindby M. Moore^ Excuse me for sending that Catholic communica-
tion- and write to me by mail or otherwise as
may suit convenience and thou mayest thereby
not only oblige me but Lydia P. Mott also.
My health is very good at present- and with
desire that you may be equally blest and con-
tinue to enjoy that peace which the world can
neither give nor take away. I remain your Friend
N. Potter –
Isaac Post
Joseph W. Brown was buried two weeks
ago today. I was with him the latter part of his sick-
ness and believe he made his peace with God before
he died. Moses Wards wife is sister to J.W. Brown, & Cinthia Cronk
(Page 2)
I hope to attend Quarterly meeting and visit you by the
way- but as Cinthia Cronk has proposed to attend
and that I should go with her. [Obliterated] –
provided Wm can not leave home – I can not
give an opinion how I shall go or whether
I shall go at all – for some of my friends are
sick and likely to be for some time to come.
I feel that I have yet to suffer in society- If
you have suffered your share then of course
it is time for you to journey forward I confess
you have been more faithful in the cause
of the downtrodden slave than I have and therefore
more worthy of the blessing pronounced by
lips that spake no guile. Blessed are they that
are persecuted for righteousness sake for theirs is the
kingdom of Heaven. If I have any doubt of being
are of this number- it is because I have not
been as faithful in the cause of the oppressed as
I ought to have been. others may judge different
but I would say “Let God be true tho it make every
man a liar”. for this was his language to me
when he took in mine “own blood” as I was and
“said unto me line.” He told me I could not be lost
if I continued faithful in this one thing. Pray for
me that I may be more faithful. Painful as it was
that you should leave society while I felt required
to remain, it would have been a hundred times
more so if you had abandoned the cause of
the down-troden slave.
How do you all get along? All harmonious
in the meeting I hope, since it is the faith of the
society that “the peace of God rule our minds.”___
Isaac N.
(Page 3)
[Text middle page downward]
Isaac Post
Rochester City
(Page 4)
[Text normal with large X’s marked through]
I see I have taken the wrong
sheet ofErie Co paper
To. JW Brown Dr.
1844
9th Mo. 30th To 2 Barrels of Soap at 16/- $4,00
10,, “ 7 ,, ,, 2 do. do. 4,00
,, 15,, ,, 1 do. ,, 2,00
,, ,, ,, 1 do. A. 2 00 4,00
[Obliterated]
1844 Cr.
9th Mo. 30th By 3 Bushels Ashes 8₵ $0,24
“ 78 tbs grease 3‚ǵ 2,34
“ 8 tbs do. 3‚ǵ ,24
10th Mo. 7th 41 tbs grease 4₵ 1,64
“ “ 15,, 87. do. 4‚ǵ 3,48
“ 21,, 60. do. 4‚ǵ 2,40
2 ½ Bushels ashes (A) ,20
[Text in right margin written downward]
I have not time to write an other
now. If I should it might be
no better than this
(Page 1)
Westbury 9mo 17 1845
Dear Edmund and Julia
I have defered [sic] wrighting [sic] much longer than I
expected and as we have no company after Monthly meeting I will try
we had a very short meeting only quarter after 12 when we got through
as to society matters we get along after the old sort pretty quiet
expect now and then a communication bearing prety [sic] hard from
our former loved friend R. Timothy got a minute last month to
visit some of the meetings in 5 of the southern Quarters. But
owing to the sickness of Francis Titus who is not expected to
recover, has not gone yet Isaac Rushmore expects to accompany
him. William Titus Francis Titus oldest son William died
about 2 weeks with the dropsie [sic]. Uncle Robert Willets
had a fit some time agoe [sic] Dr Wright was their at the time
who bled him, I suppose very freely, he seems feeble yet
Aunt Mary feels very anxious about him, hardly willing
he should go to meeting or any where else, How do you
get along with disownments and resignations in your meeting now
and fare, with, Lewis what affect does his faleure [sic] have on him
We somes [sic] feel verry [sic] much discourage, but for the sake of some
in the ranks who we esteem and who advise us to hold on, and our
position well known and being fully satisfied that the principle
live up to is the only right one to be had. how does your free
meetings get along. since being their and seeing and hearing
how they were managed I think they will not be of much
benefit to society at large. The account of repair and
expenses &c, was satisfactory, I paid the money as directed
the 6th of the present month, William Post ^mind^ has been
so disorded [sic] as to be disqualified from doing any kind of business
I beleive[sic] they perceived something the matter when they
got back from the west, but he kept to work untill [sic]
about 3 weeks ago, He thought they were so in debt that
he had been dishonest had ruined Henry Grinell and that
they would he would have to go to state prisson [sic], his
whole trouble seemed on account of not haveing [sic] property
enough to pay his debts we now he here he is better
seems to enjoy himself more, he has been quit sick is also better
(Page 1)
first day 14th John offers me his letter
to finish and having stated the cause of our disappointment in not
visiting you, and that we have given up our visit this fall, little
Anna has not sufficiently recovered yet for us to leave, she seems wake
ful and brighter this morning after a restless night again, coughs
considerable yet which appears very necessary in breaking loose the
phlegm, after being dressed this morn in her little pink frock and [panthlets?]
light brown shoes, stockings, and a very white face. her mother stood her on her
(Page 2)
feet and bore her weight and takes a few steps but is very weak. I apprehend
there are truth coming too. some days she sinks down and is very hot and
dell, and sleepy, a week ago to night her recovery was very doubtful.
but she underwent a change in the morning, after which the symptoms
were favorable to a recovery. so that ^after some days^ I went home a little which, but
was soon sent for again. She had elapsed. Rachel feels that she cannot
let me go as far away as Rochester yet and it will soon be to late in
the season that we conclude it better to defer it, for the present; and
mother Kirby is poorly too, and I found she was when I wrote before but
did not know of it untill [sic] after the letter was in the office, she has a great
deal of pain in her back, the first time I went in to see her she looked feeble
but when I returned from Westbury (where I now am) I went to see her the same
day, and she said she was better tho not well the pain continues. I think she and
father felt disappointed [obliterated] seemd [sic] pleased with the prospect of our journey,
aunt Esther (R… is poorly yet; and Charry Ketcham continues sick
they have had two Dcters [sic] the week past; how they will succeed time only
will prove his Father told me that he thought there was but little hope
for Charry’s recovery, I was in there when home but did not see her, her father
mother, sister, and aunt are there, and in the room, Where are Will can and
Margaret are almost constantly with her night and day, they do not accept
of their neighbors help yet, it is very difficult to move her on account of
biles being very sore Rebecca appears to feel deeply for William, as we
all do. the Dctr [sic] has said untill [sic] recently that she had no disease, no fever
but that it was owing to her peculiar situation; but now he states
it is a hasty consumption. the last time I saw her a week ago I felt more
confirmed by appearances that it was a liver affection. It is nearly meeting
time and as my husband is not very well and it is a rainy morning, he will remain
with Rachel to assert while Samuel and I go to meeting where S has not been in
some time brother Edmund has been up the past week engaged in getting hay to South
(Page 3)
for father, I have not seen him or Mary yet. James and Phebe Post went to Flushing
and if they have returned we may give information from William Post which
I hope may be encouraging as the last account was soon ^afternoon^ having returned
P. Post informed me that William [Pather?] their having their all might
sent for James, ^said^ he would like to see him which was the first person that
he had been willing to see, they said that he was too weak to go out having
had dysentary [sic] which had reduced him. and that morning had asked his
wife for something to eat; he slept pretty well and his mind was better
their has been talk of taking him to the asylum but they got a man I
believe from their who understood tho treatment necessary. it is a very
trying circumstance to his mother and brother I hear, and we doubt
it is exceedingly so to his wife. I saw Phebe Haviland to meeting here
come up to see her boys who are at Rachel Hicks’s, likewise a strange
woman that was dressed nice and looked like a friend and their seemed
considerable wondering who she was and where from & after coming away
Samuel told me that John Searling was their with his wife, we had not
heard before that he had one. Edward and Esther Willets have been to see
Kezia Cary her husband is now very poorly cannot be down at all, and
does not appear like continuing long. I have invited Rachel to fill
this ^page^ but she declines, feeling that she must attend to her sick baby,
but request her love inserted to all, we hope to hear from you
the last report Joseph had broken his arm, I noticed Robert Willets was
at meeting to day which was unexpected as I had heard that he had another pow
turn having lay’d down during the day when he arose he could not speak.
I suppose he it did not last long. I made an interesting call with Anna
W.W. lately she sees in fine spirits talking about the arrival of English
friends who have come over on account of difficulties in their society on the
abolition subject at Indiana, I did not pry into her feeling on the subject
but she interested me with an anecdote on another subject which I cannot write
now it would be too lengthy
(Page 4)
[Text in top margin written upside down]
I believe you must excuse me it seems so difficult to write or to
have the attention fixed on any one thing and with love to all
I subscribe your sister M W. Willis
[Text Middle of page written upward]
NW Hempstead
Paul Sept 14th 1849
10 Isaac Post
for Amy Post Rochester
Munroe County N.Y.
(Page 1)
Rowland Roberson and wife has resined [sic] thir [sic] right of
membership, some here some in one place and some in
another resigning. and and [sic] now and then one request
we have had one requester lately and Bethpage their [obliterated]
been several. 9th mo 19 Mary would probably have
finished this if at home, we went to Jericho yesterday, mor
-ning found the people assemble at the funeral of
Charry Ketcham she has been sick a number of
weeks the corps was taken to River head for inter-
ment, a great trial for William, have not been
married a year. We found Mother so poorly
and lonely that Mary staid a few days has been
very feeble for some weeks, Samuel Hicks and Rachel
little daughter has been verry [sic] sick for some time
a little better some times and then not as well I believe
believe it causes many remarks by some of their
neighbours their not having[sic] a Dockter [sic] but depending
on the pills, I saw your Father's family all but I,
at meeting all well as usual I believe Uncle
John and Mary have taked [sic] of making [sic] you a
visit at Rochester but wither they will make out
(Page2)
[Text in Middle of page written upward]
Hemp.. N.Y 10
Sept 19
Edmund P Willis
Rochester
N york
[Text at bottom of page written upside down]
is some uncertain aunt Mary we herd was putting [sic] up their
cloths on 7th day to start on 2nd day, and Samuel came
after her it is now 2 or 3 weeks ago, Joseph Hicks and Lydia
have another son have now 5 and lost one Aunt Rachel
much as she has been for years, seems to know pretty much
all that is passing, about as good a place to here news
as any we go to. Pleas [sic] direct your letters and all Post
Office matter to North Hempstead again. the office has
been removed to the Store of E Lewis
Affectionately your Uncle Joseph Post
(Page 1)
My dear Amy Ledyard 7th moth 1845
Trusting that my long silence will not be con
strued by my ever dear Friend into indifference or neglect I once
more take the pen to assure thee and thy beloved partner of my
unabated regard – I am sensible of my negligence it is owing to
a procrastinating spirit which I am apt to indulge – if I could carry
about me the means of committing my thots’ to paper ‘instanter’ [sic] I should
I believe often salute my absent friends in this way and consequently
deserve a return – but suffice it to say I have visited you often in
idea – have ardently wished for your company and friendly chat when
my hands were not at liberty to take the pen or my ability to secure
a suitable place to write – now if I have not forfeited thy dear
love and good will do send me some token as soon as convenient
We learn that Brother Joseph is about making some arrangement
for a remove 50 mils [sic] west I trust it will be best – he has my warm
wishes for his successful enterprise not only in the experiment of a
country life but an exchange where he can sit under his own
vine and “none make make [sic] affraid [sic]” for my dear friend of how
much are we constantly affraid [sic] – I have long, long, been turning
and turning the subject in my own mind but alas! alas! how are
we at every step arrested by “lo here and lo there” to our confusion
and dismay – dreading the loss of caster so we have groped our way
till [sic] lost in darkness we cannot assist others or be useful in our
day – I have been aroused of late by the discovery that [fr]
the writings of Elias Hicks have been suppressd [sic] – no doubt for the
reason that our enlightend [sic] meetg [sic] for suff’g believ’d it best
to do so – now I wish thee would institute an enquiry into
(Page 2)
the [obliterated] on perusing a certain trial since the decis
ion – where orthodoxy wished to prove him infidel certain
letters were brought to prove his radical views – such quotations
as were to the point are truly interesting to me as they [prov]
^proved^ incontestibly [sic] that all his writings have not been printed
nor do I believe that any friends writing ever have been
printed without being seriously injured – this has been
long – a source of evil – Aden[t] T long was often very clear
in the case of the scriptures and I am well assured that
the same exclusion has been practiced with respect to E
Hicks and Job Scott – I think if you were to apply
to some LI. friends, they would in form – it may seem
unimportant to you – but we are so gratified lately by
some writers – in the Herald of Freedom and Liberator
that we want to find among our own more near
friends proof of the clear manifestation of light and
faithful adherence therto [sic] I leave room for sister to add
as our dear children [aere] ^are^ all here Isaac and Elisabeth
are here and I have not seen them much of late
I must close for the present with much love and hope
to hear from thee soon I can then write more perhaps
I intend to be more punctual in [putase?]
thine
Sarah E Thayer
(Page 1)
Buffalo 7.. 10.. 1845
Much Esteemed Friend
Having a little leisure to write I shall
not let it pass unimproved tho’ I have nothing remarkable
to say – but I have no intent of allowing the circumstance
of your withdrawal from the monthly ^meeting^ to make any differ-
in my feelings and trust [they] ^it^ will not in yours. – Indeed
you are held in higher estimation by me, than those who
could approve or silently submit to have Benj Fish
deprived of his right: as little as it might be worth – for,
if as Wm S. Burtin expressed – “He is an honest man”; –
It becomes us to be verry [sic] careful how we get into a state
that would say to such – “Stand by thy self, I am
more holy than thou” – least [sic] we become judges
rather than doers of the law of divine love. –
I have a letter from Isaac T. Hopper of the 24.. Ult.
by which it appears he had heard of our yearly meeting by a letter
he had received from Joseph Dugdale – He regrets your leaving society.
I will give an extract from his letter: – he says. “I had heard before
receiving thy letter that Iaac [sic] Post & wife had resigned their right of
membership in the Society of Friends and I was truely [sic] sorry to hear it.
I have no doubt but they have had much to try their faith and
patience, but still it appears to me that they had better have held on: –
By withdrawing they weaken their own cause and strengthen that of the
enemy. I know well what it is to contend with the spirit of orthodoxy
and that is now as rampant on our side as ever it was on the [other] side
we call orthodox. – Isaac Post & wife are friends that I much esteem ^&c.^.
Geo. F White continues his denunciations about as hard as ever.
In speaking lately of the benevolent institutions he called them
traders in benevolence and said they were the meanest beings on
Earth – they were the verry [sic] scum – That they were more de-
graded than the Devils in hell. All this goes down
as gospel – The day he made use of this low vulgar
language – The monthly meeting gave him a minute to attend Philadel-
phia Yearly meeting.” So much from New York. They have ther [sic] great men.
(Page 2)
Geo. F White is no doubt a smart man – but I have before me an
extract from a curse Issued by the Pope which (if he should read it).
would make him ashamed of his publick [sic] declamations unless he
can command stronger language – it reads thus Being a curse
pronounced by the Pope on the Revd Wm Hogan formerly
a Papal Priest –
“By the authority of God Almighty, the Father
Son and Holy-Ghost, and the undefiled Virgin Mary,
Mother and patroness of our Saviour, and of all celestial virtues,
Angels, Archangels, Thrones, Dominions, Powers, Cherubim & Ser-
aphim[s], and of all the holy Patriarchs, Prophets, and of all the
Apostles and Evangelist, of the Holy Innocents, who in the sight
of the Holy Lamb are found worthy to sing the new
song of the Holy Martyrs and Holy Confessors and of all
the Holy Virgins and of all saints, together with the Holy
Elect of God; May he, William Hogan be damned."
[May the Con, who suffered for us] We excommunicate and
anathamatize [sic] him, from the threshold of the Holy Church of God Almighty.
We sequester him, that he may be tormented, disposed, and be deliv-
ered over with Dathan and Abiram, and with those who
say unto the Lord, Depart from us, we desire none of
thy ways; as a fire is quenched with water, so let the
light of him be put out forever more, unless it shall re-
pent him, and make satisfaction Amen! xxxxxxxxx
May the Holy Mary, ever virgin & Mother of God curse him!
May St. Michael the advocate of the Holy souls curse him!
May all the Angels, Principalities & Powers ^& Heavenly Armies^ curse him!
May the glorious ban of Patriarchs & Prophets curse him!
May St John & [writer’s insertion to quote:] (here follows the Apostles and worthies) May all the Saints
from the beginning of the world to everlasting ages who
are found to be beloved of God, [curse] ^Damn^ him!
May he be damned wherever he be, whether in the
(Page 3)
the [sic] house or in the alley, in the woods or in the water,
or in the church! May he be cursed in living & dying!
xxx [writer’s insertion to quote:] (half a page of curses omited. [sic])
May he be cursed in all
his joints, and articulations of the members; from the crown
of his head to the soles of his feet may there be
no soundness! – May the Son of the living God,
with all the glory of his Majesty, curse him! And
may Heaven with all the powers that move
therein, rise up against him and curse him and
damn him; unless he repent and make Satisfaction
!Amen!”
Such is the language of the very head
of self styled Orthodoxy. – Perhaps some of Friends
may conclude it is best to leave the Heresy of Fox
Penn Barkly & Hix. (excuse my spelling) and go back to
the good old Mother Church. – I am honest in the
opinion that Nicholas Brown would do more
good there, than he will in the Society of
Friends. – Now dont expose this letter. – The truth is not to
spoken at all times and the above perhaps is of that kind.
The Quarterly meeting at Hamburg was verry [sic]
peaceable – and Benjamin Fish will no doubt have
a new committee next quarter – I regret he was
not at Hamburg that a committee might have
been appointed there. – Capron was disowned –
Should any of you write to John Mott
please give him to No. of Elders in Rochester
Monthly-meeting – Elias Degarmo perhaps had better
write it – as John wished the information from some
member of that meeting. –
If convenient within a week or two enclose
in a letter that Article of agreement between me
and Johnson – It being a memoranda I may need tho’ of no value. –
[Text sideways in left margin]
Dont let Capron get hold of this letter least [sic] he print it. –
(Page 4)
I guess thou wilt think I was determined to fill a sheet any how.
This kind of paper we can send about 2 ½ sheets as cheap
as one. –
What say to starting a store of medicines in Buffalo
Think about it –
I have had a violent headach [sic] all the time
I have been writing this letter – and if thine don’t
ache after reading it I shall almost doubt the
reality of Animal Magnetism. – But really I hope
you are all in good health – My health is verry [sic]
good with the exception I have noted. –
I went to a Methodist meeting last first day
and staid [sic] until the minister took his text which
was in James 1. Chapt. 25.. verse. and reads thus: –
But whoso looketh into the perfect law of
liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a for-
getful hearer – but a doer of the work, this man
shall be blessed in his deeds – I then left him
to make his own comments and went to the office
and made mine in a letter to a friend not of
our society – But the minister admitted on the start
that this law was not the law of Moses – that
the law of Moses was no more necessary to
Salvation than the law of the State of New-
York.. – Excuse my brevity and when
convenient send me a few lines – and
let me know when Rochester Monthly
Meeting is held at Rochester and what
time in the Month. – Thy Friend
Isaac Post. – Nathaniel Potter
(Page 1)
[Previous Pages written by Joseph Post to Isaac Post and transcribed as 618_11_16_1844]
and when such views are approved by so large a number
can we wonder that there is commotion and clashing ?
rather let it increase than diminish that all that can be
moved may be shaken, that all of man’s creating may va
=nish as a [scroll?] that a new heaven and a new earth may be kno^wn^
and all of God It is the most encouraging of any thing when viewed
in this way for it proves that there is some life -- a dead
calm is much more to be feared I often desire we may be preserved
from it the [Truth?] however will never fall tho [sic] it may be trampled upon
^by^ profesors [sic] and those who stand high before the people -- Some of
our friends feel a great fear that priestcraft is gaining and that church
and state may become united and when that is the case great parsec
=utions will come upon us and friends are admonished to rise from
their security and not deceive themselves that all is going on pretty
well. Our liberty and right to worship according to the dictates of
our conscience which we now enjoy in this free and enlightened
country of civil and religious liberty will be taken from us -- but
the priests can never rule over us unless the people choose to have
it so — then let us all cry aloud spare not that this catastrophy [sic] may be
averted I left this space for Joseph but as he is engaged I scribbled it over
(Page 2)
we miss mother very much it seems so like a dream that I can
scarcely realise [sic] the reality was home as and sick such a little while
that it seems more like a vivid dream – all in the west part looks lone and ^desolate^
3rd day morning Joseph intended to have sent this ere this but
yesterday we attended the funeral of Aunt Sarah after which we went
up to Henry’s so that there was no time to finish it --- Catharine
Willis is poorly had a little chill each day for near a week but
she was about some Joseph was gone to his grandfather’s on
a visit -- Aunt Sarah droped [sic] away very suddenly at last ---
Lydia was dressing her sores had got one leg dressed and
looking up perceived her head to hang down and raising it
found the vital spark had fled without any struggle – which
I always esteem a favor to have a long and painful struggle at
the close is exceedingly painful to witness — but few except
relation came up with them John Plummer and Rachel Hicks
ministered — Rachel quoted “Put me in the priests office that I may
eat a peice [sic] of bread” [addressed?] a [state?] which she thought present
and with whome [sic] she could sympathise [sic] for on entering the
house she said in her heart I will not speak to the people let others
better qualified who will be received better speak but this brought
death and she feared she should have to return to her home without
receiving any benefit from meeting with her friends when she was
willing to give up to fill this office despised by the creature &
thought there were some similarly circumstanced – she spoke
very well — last 4th day evening was a general meeting of the
Indian committees from all the y m [yearly meeting?]— it did not seem best for
me to go and have not heard any thing relative to it — The
monthly meeting of New York have a trying case Maria [Farrington?] was
proposed by the select meeting for a minister which was united
with by the women – and when the men had considered it and
some expression of unity James C Haviland said he thought her honest
and sincere but he did not think she had any gift in the ministry
John Meritt was of the same sentiment and I think there was something
about the select meeting having brought it forward unnaturely [sic] by
by some friend it was of course left another month and after a
pretty [tite?] [time?] ^a second mouth^ John Seaman said he did ^not^ see the way open for
him to proceed — several remarked they had never heard the friend
it was again left Robert Hicks remarked it was left to consider of and
(Page 3)
[Text in top margin, written downward]
relation to holding
the M M [Monthly Meeting?] a
part of the
time at Matinecock
have agreed
to propose its
being held
4 times in
a year thus
they wanted it
half the
time __
I hope in
the excitement
of Politics
Isaac kept
pretty cool
uncle John
and sons voted
as well as
some others
uncle John
has had a
difficulty with
Charles as you
have probably
heard Charles had
a house raised
which was taken
down by uncle John
they have expected
to go to law but
uncle J is now
willing to settle
it the [overseers?]
have visited him on the account he is blamed very much by [continues upward]
many
[Text at top of page, normal]
he thought it was a case which did not require much to be said
out of meeting and hoped they might all be careful Joseph [thinks?]
this is as likely to open the eyes of the advocates of recommendation
as any thing ^we have seen^ as it is not at all a party thing for she is of the right
stamp and that same class object __ we heard last summer that
Rachel in the select meeting plead faithfully for her ordination (as
I sometimes call it) but what need is there for this if we could
only live in the liberty of truth we should be raised above
all these things that we are now encompassed with then
we could freely speak and act as becomes rational creatures
but how few there are who do __ it is indeed sorrowful to conte
=mplate the weakness and blindness of men that they should pres
=ume to think their society or their opinions the standard for others
[Text in center of page, written upward]
Single 18 ¾
Isaac Post
ROSLYN
Nov
20 Rochester
N.Y.
New York
[Text at bottom of page, normal]
What a pitty [sic]the community s in your parts do not agree better it would
be pleasant if they could [succeed?] We want to hear from B Fish how he
fare’s both ecclesiasticaly [sic] and temporally Why did [illegible] Coleman resign
was it any abolition views that induced him to it Sarah Underwood
was at quarterly meeting also Matinecock at which place she was very
excellent her desire for us was that our course might be onward and upw^ard^
[illegible] and free---suppose I have written about it tho before What
do you think of her prospect are you acquainted with the friend I fear he is
not one of the liberal one’s all speak so well of him I could rejoice if he
[Text in center right margin, written downward]
is and she made comfortable without any restraint
upon her spirit and I have very much hoped she might
not forge chains for herself by this act which may
in any degree press heavy on her Farewel [sic] may we
look for a very long letter soon in reply to the many
long one’s [sic] received by you from Mary for a long one
is always more acceptable to us but we shall
be thankful for the smallest favor it is monthly
meeting tomorrow would like to leave this until after
if Joseph did not wish it to go the committee in [obliterated]
uncle Samuel Carpenter is deceased died rather suddenly we
hear they have invited [his?] ^aunt Phebe^ to spend the winter with them Rachel [Baker?]
expects to go South ere long we were glad of the visit from [William?]
and Mary twas too short suppose they have returned ere this I was
glad they see mother Don’t you [obliterated] like Garrisons remarks and [illegible]
to Child and Gibbons – Gay’s[views?][obliterated] too I think very correct
(Page 1)
I & A Post Jericho 5mo 17[th?] 1841
My dear friends
As Jeffries is in the neighbourhood
and to start for home to day, and further as he says
he heard something said about a letter to JK. (but
whether such a one was sent he cannot tell) I thought
I would try to scribble something in return, though it
might be only for the good intention. How but I hope
whether said letter is written or not written, you will
forward it without any needless delay _
The subject which has lately engaged and stirred
up some of ^us^ a little, it seems came from the west. I
allude to that “snake in the grass” which has been creeping
about and biting at the heel of a certain peson [sic] in N York
but it seems somebody has caught him and taken his
likeness; this I trust will be lifted up before the people
that by their looking upon it, the bitten and all who
have imbibed the poison may be healed. It was certain
=ly an act of some temerity thus to encounter the reptile,
and probably it will be treated by some not in the most
courteous manner. it may even be looked upon as an
act calculated to sow discord and disunity amongst Friends
But truly I can say for one, I honour the deed; and I trust
those who have had a hand in its commission will have
the consious [sic] satisfaction of having [sic] done as they would
be done by; and if this be the case the censure and condem=
=nation of others matters but little. you will not wonder at
my writing thus when I tell you that some of us here are likely
to be implicated the same affair _ A few days since O.J.
(Page 2)
came up and brought the original manuscript letters of G.F.W-
in order that some of us might compare them with the printed
correspondence, and if we were willing to give him a Certificate
stating how we found the case. Several of us accordingly undertook
the task; and it may be you will see before long the result of our
investigation; and what sort of alterations, aditions [sic] and omissions
have been perpetrated by the publisher. Four of our number
gave the document requested; but one or two others who joined
in the examination, and I believe were as well satisfied with
the facts certified as the rest, declined affixing their names
to ^it^ the document _ they have their [sic] own reasons for this course
and if they felt best satisfied so to do, surely it is not for me
to complain. To me it seemed a duty to speak out the truth as
we knew it, not only to counteract the injury done to the character
of an individual, but to disabuse the minds of those who
may have become the dupes of creeping slander. Surely all
who have honestly imbibed or circulated the report in question
must rejoice to see it corrected. At least a moderate share of
charrity [sic] would lead to such a conclusion. I confess I am
somewhat at a loss to conjecture the ground of unwillingness
to unite in such an act; while perhaps, in return I am wondered
at for my rashness in doing what I have done. I know it may
involve consequences to myself not of trifling import. I know
it may seriously affect my reputation in a circle when I have
ever loved to be respected. I might possibly argue too that
it might impair my influence (if I had any) in a place
where right influence is certainly needed at the present
time; but I think I can say perrish [sic] that reputation_perish
that influence that must be sustained by repressing the ^truth^ or
refusing to utter it when called for at my hands. And yet I do believe
(Page 3)
that such considerations have sometimes been the means of
detering [sic] some, and myself among that some, from coming
out and fully awowing [sic] what they know and feel to be
right. It is indeed perhaps one of the most formidable obsta-
-cles in the path of duty with some of us have to encounter.
And now comes up the old thought about Non-resistance
&c I have just got hold of a pamphlet written by H.C. Wright.
I have not read the whole but so far as I have gone I think
it would be rather difficult for “Christians” to gainsay his
Positions and his arguments without being pushed off the
platform they have assumed. As I have two or three
coppies [sic] will send you one and should like to know
what impressions it may make on you [sic] minds; perhaps
tho’ you have already seen it, if so please let the one I send
benefit some one else _ I want to put one into the hands
of our friend Valentine, as I think some parts of it may be
quite applicable to his present case. He has been causing
one of his bretheren [sic] who happened to be found trespassing
a little on his potato patch to be shut up in prison.
to act towards such as trespass against them, which it
seems to me might furnish friend V. with some
usefull [sic] hints in the premisses [sic]. But perhaps he might
think it smells of the “bottomless pit” and cast it away
but at any rate I should like to how he would get along
with some parts of it without doffing his Christian coat (for
I T Hopper says Christian and Quaker ^ism^ are synonomous [sic] terms)
I must conclude in haste with the salutation of love
accompanied by that of my Rebecca
John Ketcham
(Page 4)
P.S. Dont circulate this to the injury of any body without
giving both sides a fair chance J K
[Text in center of page, written upwards]
Isaac Post
Rochester
NY
Care of J. Hallowell
(Page 1)
2nd of 9th Mo
Dear sisters
I have been tempted to write a few lines to
my sisters for sometime past but have reasoned upon it and put
it by remembering I was not in debt by any means, and had not
sister Sarah remembered ^me^ so affectionately in her letter to mother
I should have felt it best that my pen should lay undisturbed
having feared that I had wounded your feelings in some way
by my plain dealing, as I had not recieved [sic] a token of your love
or remembrance untill [sic] Abbe Hicks returned and told us how
affectionately you enquired after us and that you wanted to see us
and thought we might come &c sister Amy’s health was delicate
[&c] then gave her sentiment I think you might go. I said does
thee think so really, yes I do she said, I said to ^her^ that since
hearing her speak of you and by sister S. letter we have felt
considerable like it and talk’d of a day for starting, but mother
got poorly and the way closed up and remaind [sic] so, untill [sic] to
day we begin to talk a little more like it again. It has been
rumored both far and wide that we were a going ^to Rochester^ and the enquiry
almost daily is have you fixed on a day yet to start. I expect you
have heard ^of^ our prospect before this as there has been time for it to
be reported to Canada and back again, and that Phebe does not
expect us to visit her, I wonder what she might think if we
should disappoint her. I hear that she complains in her
letters of sister Sarahs inattention to her, fully expecting that
she would pay her some attention and respect. I heard to day
that Margaret expects to spend the Winter with her, which
greater astonished me as M had so lately told me that she could
(Page 2)
not go, and I then had a suspicion that there might be
a string to her beau, that might operate as an objection,
but I am very ignorant of their affairs so that nothing can
be reported from me. [but] but Charry is very sick and
has been for two months and they feel very anxious about
her, she is extreemly [sic] sick and exhausted by vomiting so much
and so long that she has lost her flesh very much, her mother
is with her, and I have not been in to see her for some time
but feel very much interested in her, and have [prescribed?]
and [urged?] her to take medicine. but it did not prevail, they
seemed so fearing alltogether, [sic] they have a regular Dctr attending
at present. Martha S. left her paternal roof in a few days
after the wedding took place, as cheerful as could be expected
Rebecca said, tho [sic] not so stayed [sic] as Phebe was through all.
I went in to see Judith Fleet a few days ago, and while speak
ing of John daughters going so far away, and Rebeccas giving
them up so cheerfully &c. the old woman remarked that R’s
troubles had not commenced yet, and that if her daughters
should have children, then ^Rs^ anxiety and trouble commences
she is very far advanced in life you may recollect but many
of her remarks are pertinent, hard of hearing, and cannot take
one step, or lay down at night, but has occupied her armed
chair night and day for many months, she remembers and
enquires after you, and makes the same antique appear
ance as formerly when you saw her. Aunt Phebe Carpen
=ter is and has been up here since quarterly M.g. she appears to
enjoy visiting her friends very much seems to feel like going to
see all, she expressed a wish to go ^to^ Edward Robbins they seem to
(Page 3)
be nicely settled in their new house and having other necessary new
buildings around them, and their wood pile being very snug, and the
vegetable yard free from weeds, altogether gives it a comfortable
appearance, they [are] differ from ^their^ sister Mary in their enjoyments
I think, or circumstances may re^n^der it so, they have not as yet
manifested much of meeting characters. Rachel seems very open
and free of access, her aunt Hannah lives their [sic] what I imagine has
some attraction [to] ^with^ aunt Phebe. I wish you could see aunt P. she
is very thin in flesh, having been sick most of the winter, but
seems spry and comfortable ^now^ and very natural, just like herself,
speaks frequently of uncle Samuel with affection, but seems
ignorant of his affairs, having never pryed [sic] into them much. he
did leave something for her if she should need, but how it can be
obtained, or who is to be [jud[g]e?] of her necesities [sic] I do not know but I trust
their [sic] will be no difficulty about it, she does not appear to desire [obliterated]
our Farher seems smart for him this summer and keeps e[very?]
thing picked up around that is within his reach, the garden is
very nice, by his faithfulness and the pumpkin yard adjoin
ing, but other things ^are^ discouraging. Mother I think has been better
this summer than last; seems remarkably fortified thro [sic] all.
brother Edmund has been up some days and went to South and stayed
their [sic] and had things managed very different from common, &c
are your letters all common this had better not be. We have had
several fine showers, lately, Edward has been a few times to the
City with hay was down yesterday altho [sic] it was rainy with heavy
showers between here and the City, but he was so fortunate as to
miss them all having got his wagon unloaded just in time to miss
it while there, and it clear’d off in time for him to get home again by
[I] nine o Clock. we had fear’d that he had an unpleasant time, but not so.
(Page 4)
Anna Willis seems comfortable cousin Tommy thinks her mind is
sound except in her own state of health which she thinks is poor and
that she needs medicine. she does speak very sensibly and I hope
she has nearly recovered, she has been here and seemed very affectionate
spoke of her mother &c but my paper is so nearly filled, Dct Earl* sais [sic],
“It is the belief of a large majority of physicians of the present day, that this
disease is always bodily, and that the mind appears to be disordered only
because the organ through which its operations are manifested is not in
a condition of health.”
*Dct E is an Orthodox friend
[Address sideways, running upward]
Jericho NY 10
Sept 4th
Isaac Post
for Amy Post Rochester
Moroe [sic] County N.Y.
[Text at bottom, upside-down]
John thinks I may just say that we think of setting out
the forepart of the week. I hear that William Post is very
poorly in mind. perhaps we say a little more if permitted
to see you affectionately M.W.W.
(Page 1)
[Added text in far left margin running upward, and three lines in top margin running normal, are continuations to page 4 and are transcribed at the end of page 4.]
Dear sister, 5th of 1st Mo
Little did I think it would have been so long a
time without writing to my sisters Amy and Sarah as I know
not which to direct this too [sic] but as I am in debt to Amy
it may be best to pay off old debts first. It is very cold weath[er]
the Mercury is down to Zero. Some snow and ice that we ride
in Sleys [sic] yet and sister Elizabeth has a son 4 days old (I heard
to day) is pretty comfortable but wanted Mother to go and
stay with her [wh] is yet there. I hope to hear more particular
before closing this letter. Rachel Hicks and Maria F........ has
been to Jericho making social visits among us and appoint
ing meetings she appointed one for coulored [sic] people at our
M.g. house a snow storm prevented her attendance and
uncle David and Robert officiated, a day or two after
she proposed a meeting at Cold Spring, a violent Snow
storm again come and prevented her attending that. Sam
uel J Underhill set out to go and inform them, got fast in a
drift and that was the end of his journey. Rachel was here
at the time said she felt comfortable and that she had heard
of the will being taken for the deed. uncle Gilbert [L-----?]
uncle Sammy P. wife and sister eight or nine others were
here on that day uncle James Post among the rest and
it appear’d to be the prevailing sense of the assemblage, that
the design would not be answerd [sic] if they attempted to go, for
the people could not get there. Adon Seaman opend [sic]
to our last M.o Meeting a concern that had for years been upon
(Page 2)
his mind to pay a religious visit to friends to the north and west
and he now ask’d a minute for a part only, to appoint and atten[d?]
some meetings in Stanford Quarter. the subject claimed the
attention and unity of men friends, when it came to the
female department it seemed more difficult. no one
expressd [sic] encouragement, and but few a willingness to
even set him at liberty. just a month previous Rachel
was there and requested the shutters lowered that we might sit
together, expressed to us that the same subject that impressed
her mind ^at^ quarterly meeting, yet remained with her &c
“That ^the^ powers that be are ordained of God.” &c after
she got through [Ardon?] step’d up and spoke communi
cated a little in the course of which he alluded to
the forgoing [sic] testimony and said he did not unite with
the language &c some consider it disorderly in Ard-
=on. and thus we move one thing occurring after another
for us to converse upon, I thought after the marriages
and weddings had pass and gay carpets had passed by
their [sic] might be possiby [sic] a time of rest. Edmund P. gave
you the particulars of the marriages, weddings, and
the offering that was made [here in the] to the groom in the
evening by Gertrude, it seem’d innocent and solemn
at the time, but as it is spoken of now it would
appear just the reverse. I was very much in hopes
that you would have come at that time, yet at the time
I wrote to thee we did not calculate upon the brothren
and sisters, but the scale turned and some where [sic: were?] here
and I have a cake reserved for you but it is on the
decrease I fear that it will not last untill [sic] you come.
Do you take the nonresistant? we are cautioned
against it, not be able to see the impropriety [of] there of
we continue to take and read it: and I consider much
(Page 3)
of the contents valuable, we had the perusal of thy letter
to mother, has thee heard how th [sic] Lady liked thy books
I wished thee had Elias letters to offer her they are so good
I must just tell you of a sick woman over to
Hempstead who has been sick a long time and under
the Drs direction getting discouraged, her husband a young
man came to see me and to hear what I might say of
the Hygean [sic] Medicines, after conversing awhile with him
I thought I could reccommend [sic] them and gave him some
to commence upon, she took them about a week and sent
for me, I accordingly comply’d [sic] although an entire stran
=ger found her Dr with her, I thought her a pretty looking
sweet young person a stranger in the place had lately
married and commenced housekeeping their, [sic] however
the Dr and I had nothing to do with each other. she laid
aside her calomel and all his medicine even the removal
of a seton from her neck, I have been again to see her
and thought her a little improved began to sit up to [obliterated]
her bed [obliterated] which she had not for six weeks been [obliterated]
and in delicate health for years, she is a New England[er?]
and her mother can not be with having another daughter
sick at home. Rachel is to Westbury and Edward to Jericho
this eve a visiting with his wife to Valentines. I do
not know what course will be taken for Edward and
E yet but think they will remain with us at present.
but I dread that of Mother inlaw. Mary U Hicks said she
could live with a son in law, but a daughter in law she could
not think off. [sic] first day James Cock was accidentally to our meeting
and said he had been comforted in sitting with us, this day, had much
to say, received a note from Rachel saying she had been to see
sister Elizabeth and that she is smart and met [there?] smiling
father has gone there to day in order to bring [mother?] Willet
and Matilda rode with us. we ask’d them to come home with us
W said no it wounderfull nice to home without the old folks once
and a while
(Page 4)
[Top Margin]
David Ketcham yet lives seems quiet and peaceable a great
favor. Esther Rushmore is to Westown shcool [sic], has been very
home sick indeed will be very glad when spring comes, been
there 9 weeks, enter’d for 6 Months, she says they are so very strict
and the governess so very cross, the sternest looking woman she
ever saw, scolds and frets all the time says they eat too much
molasses, that they have eat 130 gal already will not let them
even look sideways at the boys if they do thy are punished.
just recieved [sic] a letter from her my love to Mary, Jacob,
and Joseph, Edmund P and all as is named tell sister Sarah we
wonder she does not write M.W.W. –
[Text sideways, running upward]
Jericho NY. 183
Jan 10th
Amy Post
Rochester
To the care of Monroe County
Isaac Post
[Bottom margin]
I have but very little time to write more as this letter
must go this afternoon I was sent ^for^ to go to Hempstead again
since writing the above they thought my patient was more
poorly a good deal. I thought her on the mend she seemed to
not know it (is near being confined too)* mother desires love to
you, lives by her self yet but is very dependant [sic] on us, wants to
be carried to Westbury to day cold and icy as it is. Edward dreads it
much.
[Additional closing comments are written on Page 1: upward in left margin and horizontally across top margin.]
(Page 1)
[Text sideways in left margin]
*I took my consulting physician with me (Abbe) she appear to think her in a good way.
I hope it may prove so.
[Text at top of page]
tell Isaac the time begins to feel long [over] that we have
not seen you and do write it is so desirable to get a letter
often I felt pleased to hear from P Fish and [Esther?] in mothers
letter
(Page 1)
[Illegible] My dear Amy
Time has rolld [sic] on and [brog] ^brought^ the new year with
all its hopes and fears and now the snow is falling fast, our zealots have
pass'd and repass'd attended "mass" and been carried by their stout horses "too [sic]
and fro." we have been reading some, working & and looking over old letters till [sic] 2 [oclo]
o clock – when H & D with their children left for Amos Giles s where they meet congenial
minds – The absence of the noisy youths gives us a calm to write in – but if I must live
without H & family long I should not enjoy the solitude – Our friends have become
jealous of our absence from Mg. and so the overseers came to visit us I did not know who were
in that office and they came in a friendly way, made a visit came before dinner – and
as the hour of evening approach'd they touch'd the dreaded cord I felt calm and self
possess’d and so did the girls – D told them her views briefly, and they seem'd as decent
as they well could Sarah Dunlap is a stranger to thee but Priscilla Hains is not they
told us that E [Bier?] intended to come and she may - I shall tell her as I did them
that I no longer feel it a point of duty to assemble with them to sit there and do [noth]
nothing – I could say more if necessary but I have no words to lavish on such "Geese"
as Anna Coffin would say I did tell them if they were tired of me they could
put me out – that I did not feel as if I could cast censure on those individuals
who might consent to the measure believing it to be their right to set me aside
but as I now felt united in love and good will to many of them I hoped to continue
to feel so – [Amos Giles] It is probable we shall face worse (if worse it may be calld) [sic]
for the course pursued by Cross & family – I have no unity with the friends who sit
as judges at Rochester and would rather be disownd [sic] here than to trust to those
who are less acquainted with us – we are much united as a family except some
of the number would like ^rather^ to ask for a release than to wait for them to sit in judg
ment on the case I think now that I am decided just as we all were 20 years ago
(or in the time of the Division) we were scatterd [sic] widely but all took one way
now I say let them work I look forward with pleasure to the spring when we may
meet and cheerfully join heart and hand to bless and be bless'd in turn
A letter from thy Dear Isaac reach'd H.C. the information was satisfactory and
as I have written one letter and destroy d [sic] it because I could not in reading
it over feel satisfied with it so now I have made an attempt to make a small
return for your polite attention for F.D. whom I did not see (for like my dear Mother
whose example I shall try to imitate) I staid [sic] at home to let the rest go
to Meetg
(Page 2)
Among other letters in store I found one to day from L.P.M to Mathius A
on the recipt [sic] of her "minute" which was sent her from this meetg in 1842
complaning [sic] of his short notice "only of a tie long since virtually broken & in my mind only
a painful recollection" I also reread thine by A & E Giles thy dear Matilda was
sick with scarlit [sic] fever yet thy wonted kindness led thee to write me and I well recollect
with what interest I perused it ^(the account of m. mg – disownment [sic] &c &c)^ I shall bring it with me – I think it will do thee good
to see how the [sic] felt then I trust thee will not ever feel so much again I mean
in meetg for discipline I hope we have (you & us) got clear of such clashing I feel
that my time could and I trust will be better employ'd – I learn from Isaac
P. that A Bush has been calld [sic] to surrender her little darling how trying to the
mother! but I have seen so much suffering in the adult as to feel sometimes as
if the dear little ones were spared alike the pain of future life and the
severe separation from friends which after life realizes but I have not yet
mourned the loss of my own offspring and cannot judge –
[Amung] Among others, I find ^a^ good letter from J. E. Robinson to his coz. [sic]
Anna Greene I prize it much and shall preseve [sic] it as a rilic [sic]
please present my love to him – we are making great calculations on
his society tho' [sic] we may live 3 miles off – I feel well satisfied with the
arrangement I prefer the country for the children and my self too – except
Just when I like to visit or sojourn for a time in the City its social blessing
I hope to appreciate fully but I am affraid [sic] of "fire"
H.C. tells us that you have in view to establish a reading room with which I unite as
far as my cautiousness in regard to incurring debt will admit of -- I look at it as
among the possible, that such an attempt may prove successful – I have always
wish’d that I might be useful in the line of free good but we have hithertoo [sic]
been in no situation to take part in any thing of the kind I have view'd
you my dear friends in R. as quite too much burthened with the preparations
and attendance upon fairs – &c and I have come to the conclusion that I cannot
so will further the good cause by the usual course or what has (as far as
I could discover) been requir'd of you in so limited a time as 3 or 4 weeks
but would suggest whether by small beginnings in a cheaply rented room
we might not give our attention to the constant supply of articles of usefulness Books
of information ^&c^ keeping on hand goods which we might sell on commission,
or make up for a yearly exhibition – it seems to me that we should be
aided by many who now see but little way into a thing so novel and
lottery like as a fair fishermen Always furnish themselves with
bait which they first ascertain to be suited to the taste of their
victims – and tho' the society of friends [are] ^is^ fast losing [their] ^its^ identity
and sooner or later the vacancies must be filled at the table by
or from the highways and hedges (as I view it) the increase of our
original principles affect a large share of the thinking
(Page 3)
community – the economy sobriety and habits of dilligence [sic] which were the legit-
imate offspring of true christian laws – ought to have produced better
results – – but as all organized relations are to be supplanted
by advances – so I for one feel no regret at all – no, I rejoice
rather that I have lived to see the structure so far demolished
and hope yet to be able to view the ruins where figuratively speak
ing there shall not be one stone left on another
I often say since we have concluded to move there that
I expect to enjoy those advantages of a City which Newport
R.I. famished me when young – it will seem familiar I
think to step off and help myself – to a bottle of good black ink
for instance and may be a glass pen or some other with which
I may make my crude thoughts legible
I learn that J Gurney is expected to journey eastward we shall
be glad of a call from him do take a sheet of paper and write
ask S to add and M too and pleasant Wm I think I see his cheerful
face ready to greet me while my friend Isaac holds
his dignified corse [sic] I shall be glad if you cannot write
for J.G. if you can freight him with at least some acc t
of what you are about and I will try to draw it from him
with the help of our social group we have no visitors
except Brother Wm who has spent more time with us since
my return than previously he likes to hear about you all
H is still confined to her mother who is delirious all the
time – our Q M occurs this week I hope we shall have
some social company. The 1s month is drawing to a close
and the above has lain 3 weeks the ink has grown darker
and I have been very much engaged our auction is over &c
H intends to improve the sleigh [obliterated] if we have it in season to
move west but we are informed of the small pox being with
you – and – should like to have your opinion respecting the
safety of coming as none of my family except myself have been
vaccinated for kine pox – Henry & Dorcas are dispos'd to distrust
the use of introducing one disease to counteract a worse so as
a mother Dorcas feels anxious to do for the best
We have been visited by this disease several times within a
few years – but solitary instanes [sic] occur in different neiborhoods [sic]
and tho' in one family 3 deaths have taken place – as near as
"Fitchs Corner" only one instance of [valis----?]
(Page 4)
[Text upside-down, top of page]
I ought to apologize for sending this old scrawl but I felt like writing
then and meant soon to finish it but – different occurrences have
kept me from attending to it our children have been visited by a
committee 2 men and [2? 4?] women on account of a request which they
(D & A – Abby & Phebe) sent to the M.M. requesting a release – I can give
no description of the occasion now as we hope soon to meet and
I am a poor hand to concentrate on paper I hope they will not
visit me on the account for I want to part with my friends in
good feeling and shall not wish to make a fuss now still
I dont know but it would be better to do so if I could give my
[reason to] reason for dissenting from them in a dignified
Manner -
[Text continues on bottom third of page]
I am well satisfied with the course pursued by the children
I was present and listened took no part in it I felt rather
more remov'd from participating in their way of worship afterward
than before – for the most prominent actors in comtee was Sarah Arn
-old and Richard Searing – H [Louis?] was one and Cornelius Meek & wife
Elith Baker – – they regretted that the children of J & A Greene
should make such a light thing of their right in society while I
secretly rejoice that I could look back on the last 10 years
of their lives with a satisfaction to which they are strangers
and was more confirmd [sic] than before that it is fear more
than love which holds society together your Sarah E Thayer
[Address in middle third of page, running upward]
Popr [Poplar] Ridge
NY Jan [27?]
Isaac Post
for Amy Post
Rochester Monroe
Co
New York
(Page 1)
My Dear Friend & Sister - North Union (Shakers) near Cleveland O.
8..18..
I arrived here yesterday P.M. thankful for a place of quiet
& by resting here for the night, I feel my strength renewed. – & if I fail to write
as I should do, I will take the blame on myself – for I never feel troubled on account
of bad spirits when here. It was peculiarly agreeable to find by thy letter, as
well as my own feelings when in thy presence, that we still remain one in
the bond of Christian fellowship, – notwithstanding the different outside influences
to which we have been subjected. It is an evidence to my mind that we are not
easily carried about by the craft & cunning of those who love to have the pre-
eminence. – Whether inside or outside of a church organization it matters not.
Where would spiritualism have been but for the door opened by progres-
sionist? [sic] And I was truely [sic] surprised to learn that in Rochester – those who have a
morbid appetite for the marvellous [sic] – should so far forget their obligation to the
True Reformers of the present age, as to even consent, that their liberties should be
abriged [sic] in those verry [sic] meetings which they had instituted for the good of all.
Surely no highly developed spirits will lend their sanction to any such arbitrary
measures. – My Father was a revolutionary soldier – & risked his life for the
principle of universal libirty. [sic] Liberty of speech to each & every individual.
And tho' [sic] he taught his children a better way to promote liberty than by the
sword - yet he never yielded one iota of the principle of true liberty: – liberty
to each & every individual – (so long as they did not infringe upon the rights of
others,) as the gift of God – and not merely the right of the majority.
Who does not know that those of the mother country were greatly
in the majority at the time Threemillion - in this country determined to throw
off the yoke? – the remonstrance of the great majority concerned in the struggle
to the country notwithstanding. Let those who attempt to trifle with this vital
element beware. – Our Fathers are not dead as some seem to suppose: – & if need
be – they will fight the revolutionary battles over again. – Nay – they are doing
that verry [sic] thing now: Their weapons now are Truth & love & charity opposed
to Tyranny in every form – whether by law or without law.
But where & when arbitrary Tyranicle [sic] measures prevail – good & highly developed
spirits withdraw: Hence I consider that you were in the right in with-
drawing from those meetings where your ^equal^ liberties were denied you.
After having engaged in a warm debate rather to the [wounding?] of my own
peace – a sense of which made me feel verry [sic] humble, ^my^ [mo] mother said to me thro' [sic] a
medium: – "Thee has nothing to gain but much to loose [sic] by being so combattive [sic] – We
dont [sic] want any thing to mar or interrupt the harmony between us: – and when such
things occur we dont [sic]approach." This to me was a great sermon in few words. N. Potter
(Page 2)
This ends the first Chapter. My paper which I expected to find in my portfolio being
missing I took this handbill. – P.M. Price formerly Mrs. Williamson has moved to
St. Louis. – Mo.
I was about to ride to town to make a few calls – but thought I had
better write a few lines to thee. – I am on my way to Battle Creek, Mich.
In love to all of thy household &c. Thy friend N. Potter
(Page 3)
2. Chapt.
I thought I would send what I have written on the other slip of paper without
mentioning that the Hixites [sic] have me under dealings for meeting occasionally
with spiritualist – but it would hardly be consistent with that frank confiding
spirit which I so much admire in thine. Disowned or denied Christian liberty by
a church organization & superficial believers in spiritualism – shall we not be
driven to the necessity of getting up some organization adapted to the wants
of this life and at the same time realizing to our souls, the sublimer joys of a
holy communion with angels & angelic spirits who once inhabited this lower
sphere as we now do. In order that we may enjoy this high & holy communion
it is requisite that we seek surroundings favourable to the highest mental
culture that we are capable of. – Yet as we grow in goodness by doing
good to others, we should be cautious of cutting ourselves off from those
with whome [sic] we might have an influence even tho' [sic] they may not
be so congenial to our natures. Now, for myself, I could be happy either with
the shakers or the communist of Oneida – for I could live a shaker life
there as well as here if I chose to do so: – yet it appears to me that I should
be cut off too much from others who need my counsels. – And while
I should not be afraid to act upon the principle of community of property
with such as Isaac & Amy Post & many others – yet there are those
who might do well in association upon the principle of joint stock –
and thereby become prepared for a higher state. But to be safe we
should not allow the officers of association to involve the asso-
ciation in debt. Where there is harmony & combined effort, it requires
but little to do business with, – sufficient to secure a handsome support.
Harmony & not money making should be the leading object.
If you felt like coming to Michigan – I dont know any better place for
you than to come to Harmonia & buy the largest house there which is
about 60 feet long – 32 wide & three story high – now for sale at
one thousand Dollars: – There is probably 30 rooms in it designed
to rent to students who prefer to board themselves. A store in one
corner kept by H. Cornells wife. Hiram is now in Iowa & is offered
40 acres of land to start a school there: hence would sell an acre & house for
$1000, – It cost over $2000, – Think of it.
Collins Yearly meeting of Progressionist [sic] meet the 8.. 9.. & 10th of Sept.
(Page 4)
Michigan Yearly Meeting the 2.. 3.. & 4th of Sept. at Adrian.
[Elish?] Freeman informed me that I might expect a complaint carried into the
meeting against me for meeting with Spiritualist. – This will probably be
the first case of the kind.. – as Norman Sprague was complained of for Dancing
tho' [sic] he thinks the real cause is that he is a spiritualist – other members having participated
in the same dance without having it brought to the notice of thee meeting.
I expect my Father to manage the case for me: "My Father is greater than I."
[Continues in lower half of right side of page.]
I attended a first day meeting
at East Hamburg after being notified
as stated & spoke under the strongest
spirit influence I ever felt in my life
in which I declared my belief in departed
spirits influencing friends left be hind.
And declared it in a scriptural way.
While in Erie Co. I spoke five times
In Hixite [sic] meetings – once in that of
Orthodox friends & once at a
Meeting of Spiritualist, or progression-
Ists. Nathaniel Sisson who sits at the
head of Collins preparative meeting
attended the last mentioned meeting
& expressed to me his approbation. –
[Final two lines extend across entire bottom margin.]
I have many things to say – but can not say them now for want of
time. A kind remembrance to enquiring friends - & Sister Sarah too – N. Potter
(Page 1)
Here my poor letter is so many days after its commencement and
had not my J been so kind as to fill it I know not how much longer it
would have remained here [various?] are my pleas for not finishing it before
one of which is the toothache which has been at times very severe and has
not made me feel very communicative it is pretty quiet now but last night
slept very little – I am anticipating a time when I shall not have so much
of that kind of trouble I am thankful for hope how much it conduces to
our happiness and enables to bear up against difficuly [sic] pain and sorrow the
hope of better times ahead Matilda has been down and had her upper
teeth extracted she took chloriform [sic] but thought it done no good she
was as sensitive as ever, they came very hard Mary J Motts little babe
is declining and they have no hope of its recovery Phebe Johnson leaves very
shortly for Penn ^a^. What kind of a visit did Cousin Phebe Haviland
have with you did she hear the raps and if so what did she think
of it all how glad I should be it were possible to have you
spend this evening with us it is nearly dark and I have
made up a nice fire and nothing is wanting except your presen^ce^
to make it truly pleasant The Indian committee from all [New?] York
I suppose met in N Y last week had two or more meetings they
say it is for the winding up of the concern – I have not met
with them in a long while feeling disgust at some of their
sayings and doings Probably you have not heard Willets
expects to introduce us to a stranger as wife next third day
evening she is an entire stranger to all of us how we shall
be pleased with each other time alone will determine
Have seen Phebe Hallowell a short time she appears to be enjoying
herself nicely Margaret is better in health. Lydia Seaman is
expecting to come to Jericho soon on a visit- Elias Doty’s disap
-pointment must have been great what a scamp he must be
it proves to them I suppose that appearances often deceive
(Page 2)
I intreeat [sic] of you to set as a good example in writing often do not
wait for an answer true friendship will not wait for an answer
allways [sic] we want to hear what you are engaged in and all the little
eccetras [sic] writing and rapping etc and now farewell with much love your
Sister M
Jericho 9m 1838 -
Esteemed friend,
Expecting an opportunity to forward a
few lines by E. P. Willis, has tempted me to try to
scribble a little for thy perusal tho’ I suppose you will
be made acquainted thro’ other sources, of most of the things
that have occured [sic] amongst us which it will be interesting to
to [sic] you to know. You will doubtless be informed that we have
had rather a spirit-stiring [sic] time on the subject of abolition &c
&c &c _ you will likely be told all about G. F. White Lucretia
Motts and their labours of love & discord amongst us _ What
effect all this troubling of the waters may produce remains
to be seen. Certain it is, considerable collision [sic] of sentiment
has been elicited; but I do not anticipate any very bad
consequences from this if we can keep in a right spirit and
disposition of mind; but there is the dificulty [sic]; and it is very
important for each one of us to endeavour strictly to guard
one in this particular; and if happily we succeed in this I have
no doubt but but [sic] the right cause will gain ground – Truth
never sufferes [sic] by investigation and the attacks of Error
often promote such investigation _ _ _ But while I
leave the local news principally for others to tell there is
one subject that perhaps I may be better prepared to in=
=part information upon than they – I lately made a little
trip to Philadelphia and when there attended the “Free produce
Convention” held on the 5th and 6th of this month – and here
the query occurs, where were the Isaac Posts and the Thomas
McClintocks and the Gerrit Smiths, Charles Marriots and a host
(Page 2)
of other “good men and true” who might have reasonably been
have been expected upon the spot (and it appeared they were
at least some of them expected) to lend their aid in so good a
cause – as it was, I beleive [sic] thy friend J. was the only and alone
solitary representative from the “Empire State” – for my own
part may truly say it was gratifiying [sic] to my best feelings &
be there whether any other good will result ^to myself^ I cannot so
well tell – The object of this association is to encourage the
use of the products of requited labour and to devise means
to procure a supply in the market, of such produce and
I think there is good reason to hope that this plan if properly
carried out will effect much: It will call the attention of
many to the subject who have never yet reflected much upon
it – it will I think quicken others to action who are already
convinced of its propriety; but (like myself) have let in the
discouraging thought that so little could be done – The Con=
=vention was h^e^ld in a building a few rods from the far famed
Pensylvany [sic] Hall yet all was quiet around – no mobs to be seen
in the streets and no Mayors to make speeches to them – indoors
too order prevailed tho’ we had some (I might say) rather spirited
discussion but all apparently with perfectly good feelings, In an
assembly composed of various religious denominations, white
and black, male and female, it would be strange indeed
if all should see exactly eye to eye: and yet as regards the main
subject there appeared very little difference of sentiment – the
chief difference seemed in the question wether [sic] all participation
or use of such articles was criminal – some seeming to hold
to the affirmative while others thought there was “no laws for
necessity” – This thou will see might easily lead to some very fine
(Page 3)
hair-spliting [sic] and it did so – The business of the convention was finally
left in the hands of committees and after a Session 2 days adjourned to
meet in 10th Mo next year – There was one trait in the management
of the business with which I was particularly pleased. I never before
witnessed in any deliberative assembly the principal of equal
rights so fully carried out – in this respect there seemed to be no dis=
=tinction felt – neither rich nor poor Jew nor Gentile, male nor female
none of these things appeared to cramp the freedom of discussion at all
the company seemed composed mostly of Friends – rather more
women I thought than men and a few coloured folks of
both sexes who seemed to take as much interest in the proceedings
as if they were white _ the presiding officer was a man _ a male
and female secretary _ the standing officers and committees
were chosen promiscuously, as for instance Gerrit Smith (tho
absent) was chosen President of the Society and Lucretia Mott Treaserer [sic]
and so on _ and now thou may think whether all you who ought
to have been there, and staid away, have not sustained a loss, and
also whether a good cause which needs the support of all good men,
(ay and good women too) has not ^also^ sustained another loss – think of
this against 10th month next year _ _ _ During my short stay in
Pa I had also the pleasure of hearing a lecture on the subject of slavery
by Sarah M. Grimke and also the honour of attending a meeting of
the Friends Antislavery society – this I believe is composed exclusively
of friends –(of both sorts) it was held in the Cherry street meeting house &
consists of more than 100 members – there was an address reported and
adopted by the mg – which I should like thee should see: it was to be
published in the Pensylvany [sic] Freeman – on the subject of abstaining
from slave labour produce _ _ _ By the way what dost thou think
of this plan of friends operating by themselves in the Antislavery
cause
(Page 4)
true it seems to obviate an objection often urged by some, to wit, that
friends are ^a^ peculiar people having peculiar Testimonies given them to
bear to the world – that by mingling with the worlds people we should,
by imbibing thier [sic] spirit and maxims, loose those testimonies and
become as the people of the world _ _ How my thoughts on the subject run
a little on this wise – If we have really received more light than has
been vouchsafed to others should we not be more likely to impart it
by intercourse with them? would it not be more like seting [sic] the light upon
the candlestick than it would to entrench ourselves within the (thorny) hedge
of Sectarian exclusionism? which is the most likely, that darkness should drive
away light; or that light (if it is the true light) should dispell [sic] the darkness? This
seems rather a puzelsome [sic] question; I should be glad to hear what thou has
[Continues on bottom of page with line beginning “to say about”]
[Text in center of page, written upward]
Isaac Post
Rochester
NY
[Text to the right of above, written upside down]
I myss [sic] [hr?] day
[Text on bottom of page, written normal]
to say about it – Thou will see that this whole position rests on the admission
that we are more enlightened – perhaps others might deny the assertion and
^then^ we have a case at issues to establish as well as we can – But then again
the scripture injunction is brought up – that Israel should dwell alone
and not be numbered among the Nations – but then comes another puzeler [sic]
why should this be exclusively applied to joining with others to do good or to
benefit the human race: while it seems to be no sin to do it for the sake of
gain? We may go hand inhand [sic] up to the House of the God of this world and
bow together at the shrine of Mammon and no one complains – For all
then may dwell where he pleases _ _ I have been pondering a little on these
things and I thought I should be glad to know thy views of them whither
they accord with my own or otherwise --- I expect to see thee and thy A.
on the [Soland?] this fall. as we are to have another marriage here but
dont [sic] wait for that. – let us hear from you by letter as soon as convenient –
we are all in usual health – My R joins in love to you all
John Ketcham
(Page 1)
Jericho 3 mo 1838
Dear Brother Sister and Edmond
What a privilage [sic] we have yes what an unspeak-
able privilag [sic] it is when far separated to be able to commune with
with [sic] each other, it is indeed next to the enjoyment of mingling together
personally I do not remember whether Catharine was gone to J Rushmore
when we wrote before but she has been there more than two weeks
she is paying some attention to drawing under Matild’s [sic] tuition
and by her express invitation we went some days since in order
to take her home but as it seemed rather a pitty [sic] to brake [sic] her off so soon
she concluded to stay another week they were all pretty well except Edm^ond^
who was rather better of his cold does not go out of his room looked
and seemed pretty comfortabe [sic] sleeps well nights but his hands still
look sick and he is otherwise thin except his face which you know
is his best appearance his mother said she did not feel like leaving him
much untill [sic] he could walk about the house. Father has quite brightend [sic]
up but his sore increases. Henry went Yesterday and cleaned his clock being
no longer able to do it himself. Mary F has spent several weeks at her
father’s has now returned to Westbury. it is a little more than a
week since we were invited to attend the funeral of John Jones’s
wife meet [sic] at the house at ½ past 12 and at the Church at ½ past 1
O clock and a real formal time it was even the man that ministered
Oh how dry to us there was indeed a darkness that was [feelt [sic]] so percept-
-able [sic] that I believe it might truely [sic] be said it was felt all seemed
to tend to draw from the solemn occation [sic] on which we had met
had the rellatives [sic] been unacquainted with the principles professed by friend
I have no doubt [it] the performance would have appeared less exception-
able to me I cold [sic] not but compare that occation [sic] with the funera [sic] of
Sally Carle where divested of unnecessary form the opportunity seemed
peculiarly calculated to introduce the mind to a train of serious reflection
First day and 11th of the month [when] I wrote the above when our
family were all absent and when they came home put it quickly out
of sight and have now resumed my pen while Henry and Isaac are in bed
and Samuel at the barn this secrecy is observed in order that they may
have no excuse for not writing but whether I shall effect any thing by it do
not yet know. Your acceptable letter reached us some days since and in it
Edmund has made his pittyful [sic] mone [sic] in relation to his clothes for the first time
it is just as I had feared he would feel knowing he went from home so unprepared
I expected he would feel as if his clothes cost so much but I hope sister Amy will
not feel as if there has been any care lacking on her part for I think its [sic] very
probable more has been bestowed than if under my charge – it may be necessary
to tell him [what] what it is necessary for him to procure or for him to con-
sult Uncle and Aunt which he probably does gladly would I this day send some
bosomes [sic] if it were practicable – – it seems brother Isaac has had an invitation
for Edmund at L Mores well since they are so queer and do not call on
and invite you all I should advise aunt Amy and Edmund to call on
them and also at S Cornells after tea or at some time when it is not
meal time, how do they treat Uncle Henrys family do they call on them
cousin [Anson?] Mott when here expressed great affection for Aunt Mary
and said she wanted to call and see her but her being from home
prevented; as much as you admired [Darbert?] brother Isaac does not say how he
appeared on personal acquaintance or why he did not visit you or whether he
invited him to call on his sister Rushmore and family when he gets to
Long Island as they seem to be in the neighbourhood of Henstead [sic] harbour
and need a little [christianising?] all but Matilda we have succeeding geting [sic]
them to take the Liberater [sic] by subscribing for them and advancing the
mony [sic] but Matilda sais [sic] she cant make them take much interest in it
howeve [sic] I hope they will and I think their interest has increased already
The Jerich [sic] Library seems to have given quite a new energy to the intellectual
powers within the bounds of its circulation, in reply to [I?] in relation to his
fathers tooth we might have said before it had got well. rellative [sic] to the
road out [sic] to the turnpike we are not able yet to inform what will be the re-
sult of present negosiation [sic] it appears Jacob askes [sic] more for the land than
was expected Henry feels like being pretty deliberate but as John will by
the change take up considerable fence and land he is more anxious to expedite
(Page 1)
Jericho the 1 of 11 Month 1837
Dear Amy
I commence on this blank paper almost as blank
as it ^is^ but to recur to my agitated feelings about the time of our
parting, I may say I have felt very calm and quiet. resignation
seamd [sic] to cover my mind as it were in a comfortable submission,
and so it remains. We heard by Stephen Rushmore of your getting
safely on as far as Utica sins [sic] which we here [sic] nothing further of you
Samuel Willis remains confind [sic] at home not to the house nor the door
yard but walks some in the fields as he thinks a great charge is
on him, as reguards [sic] the business the soar [sic] on his face rather increases
Rachel has not left him but twice to attend meetting [sic], our Mo Mg was
held at Bethpague [sic] where Arden oppend [sic] a concern ^to^ visit most of the Mg
of our YM after a solem [sic] pause Robert Seaman broke silence not in
fauvor [sic] of his going and so others in accordence [sic] by saying the frend[sic] had
done well to releive [sic] his mind, and cast it on the meetting [sic], now it lay on
frinds[sic] not on him, it was minute so that it [com?] of cours [sic] to next Mg
My IK & I attended the 2 Mg at Flushing where Mary Pike & husband
attende [sic] she had a minute to attend the meetings of our Qarter [sic] which
she has performd [sic] except Westbury, also attended William Worton & Debo=
=rah his Wife she is public they did not go no further Phebe Meritt has
a minut [sic] to attend Baltimore Yearly Mg now sitting also the meettings [sic]
their [sic] and some others after she had the approbation of her friends
she desired to see my Nephew Robert Seaman he hapned [sic] to be in town
she felt it to be right to propose his acompanying [sic] her, he acording^ly^ [sic]
acquiesed [sic], quite a Goup [sic] has gone on Rachel Hicks to attend the
YM not many others ^Meeting^ James C Heveland Phebe & Lidia her Companions
they all attended the Q Mg on 5 day and expected to be in Baltimore on
7 day morning except Robert who went on second day after
Mathew F Robbins superintends their [sic], and Esther Seaman at [James?]
I dont find that Cousin Esther Anderson gets any better we did not
call to see her they think it best to keep her quiet
(Page 2)
We have had but littil [sic] of Valentine and Abigails company yet they did
get home so as to attend his brothers funeral that was on 7 day ^the 22^ they got in town
on 2nd day, found [Adaniga?] Underhill confind [sic] to his room with a
Paralict [sic] affected his rite [sic] side, but now he can walk goes down stairs
to his meals &c … Vallinetine [sic] say that the YM of Indian has had [Parci^la^
what shall I say care before them two years now they have appointed a com
=mittee, to go with money to defray her expences [sic] home and if she does not
feel easy to renew her minute and set out anew they seamd [sic] to feel [m]
much for ^her^ – also for the cause, which seamd [sic] to be in suffering as she was
in some instances rather a burden to her friends you may do with this as is
right wether [sic] I do rong [sic] in mentioning it I leave I have no ill in telling it, in good
feeling to Parcila with my love – as to her Husband I ther [sic] herd [sic] them say not
a word, but Elizabeth Hicks says she asked V abought [sic] him, V said he asked
George Hatton his reply was the less he knew the better Jacob Sarah &
Matilda are gone to Hempsted [sic] on a little tradeing [sic] excursion nothing done
but talk as yet about Selling, had one to view the farm Thomas Chester
his offer 10 dollors [sic]
in hast John and [2 illegible words] calld [sic] a few
minuts [sic] and that is all in much love to you
affectionately thy Mother
love to the children all Jacob I miss thee much
[illegible] Sering desires her love to you
(Page 3 blank)
(Page 4)
[Address in center of page, running downward]
Poplar Ridge
Nov 16 10
Amy Post
Rochester
NY