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people. By the blessing of heaven, a few barley loaves and small fishes were made sufficient to satisfy the various appetites of thousands; and an evidence was furnished by this display of divine power, in the miracle which Jesus did, so that testimony was given, "This is of a truth that Prophet that should come into the world."

But the work of the disciples was not finished, when, on this occasion, they had distributed to the people as much as they then stood in need of; a further service remained as an important lesson of divine economy, in making provision for others who stood in need. Hence the prudent charge to "gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost."

Believing that at this day there are great multitudes of seeking, inquiring minds, towards whom Divine compassion is extended ;-apprehending also, that many of these may be as in a wilderness state, or as sheep not yet gathered into the fold of settlement and peace, under the guidance and direction of the one heavenly Shepherd; and being fully persuaded that Divine Goodness still makes use of instrumental means, to bless and to satisfy the hungry soul with good things, as well as immediately to feed his children with the bread of life;-sensible also that many valuable "fragments" have been left by such, as have been removed from works to rewards, and remain as testimonials of their living experience of the substance of things hoped for, and of their having partaken of that heavenly bread or soul-sustaining nourishment, which many sincere minds are now hungering after;-there has appeared to be a service required of some, in the present day, to "gather up the fragments that remain" of the examples, the experiences, the labours and con

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cerns of those who have shone as lights in the world, by their devotedness to the cause and testimony of Truth, their zeal and care in promoting the happiness of the human family, and advancing the principles of peace on earth and good-will amongst men.

Among these "fragments" it is apprehended ther are many valuable manuscripts "that remain" unpul lished, and which are consequently in danger of being "lost," or confined to a very limited sphere of useful ness. Among which are, biographical memoirs of ex emplary characters, in the form of Testimonies or Memorials, drawn up either by individuals or meetings, which might be profitable to survivors, if brought into more general view. Narratives of travels, or memorandums that have been penned by way of jour nals or diaries, of the exercises, trials, probations, and experiences of dedicated minds. Letters, epistles, or essays, of interesting and instructive tendency, developing the views and characters of the writers, and exhibiting portraits of mind, far more valuable than personal likenesses. Historical sketches, particularly of the society of Friends, illustrating the origin and settlement of meetings for worship and discipline, the spreading of Friends' principles, and the advancement of the testimonies of Truth; the progress of light and knowledge in the improvement of schools, the order and discipline of our religious society, and the examples and labours of those who have been instrumental in promoting the work of reformation; and "who being dead," may yet speak the language of encouragement to others to go and do likewise.

It is believed that a judicious compilation of essays and materials of these descriptions, might form a periodical publication, that would be profitable to be in

troduced into the families of Friends, and among the rising generation. And although to the refinements of polite literature, some of these fragments may appear in a simple or antiquated dress, yet to the sincere seeking mind, they may prove as the barley loaves and fishes that satisfied the multitude in the wilderness; more especially to those, who, looking up to heaven for instruction, have become acquainted with the Divine Monitor within, that teaches as never man taught.

Thus might opportunity be furnished for rescuing from oblivion, and holding up to the view of survivors, the names, the sentiments, and the enlightened views of many worthy members of society, who are yet remembered by some with affectionate interest, as waymarks to their cotemporaries, and benefactors of the poor, but whose works and labours of love are in danger of being forgotten. Their descendants also may hereby be stimulated and encouraged to follow the footsteps of their pious ancestors, whose example and counsel may yet prove as bread cast upon the waters, and thus be found useful to their children after many days.

In gathering up the fragments that remain, that nothing may be lost, which might contribute to the benefit, the instruction, and the improvement or confirmation of the sincere hearted, who are hungering after substantial food for the mind, a hope is entertained, that encouragement may be derived from the remembrance of the widow's mite that she cast into the treasury or common stock, and the testimony of approbation uttered on that occasion. It is apprehended that there are materials of the characters alluded to, remaining in the possession of many Friends, who would not only be gratified by perusing a work

of this nature, but also feel a willingness to contribute to the comfort and improvement of others, especially the poor, the destitute, the solitary and afflicted, as well as the large circle of interesting young people, 'now rising up into active life, and who must shortly fill those important stations, and perform the requisite. duties in the various departments and relations of social and religious order, on the right occupancy and faithful discharge of which, under the Divine blessing, the welfare and advancement of society materially depend.

The present Number is designed as the commencement of a series of like character, size, type, &c., to be issued about once a month, if sufficient approbation and encouragement be given. The work will be so paged that eight numbers will form a volume, with a title page and index. J. & I. COMLY.

JOHN WOOLMAN'S LETTERS.

BELOVED FRIEND,

To a Friend.

Since our last conversation, I have felt an increase of brotherly love, and therein a liberty to hint further to thee, how, at different times for years past, things have wrought on my mind, respecting high living.

First. In some afflicting seasons abroad, as I have sat in meetings, with desires to attend singly on the pure gift, I have felt, that amongst my brethren grievously entangled in expensive customs, the Lord had a work for some to do, by exampling others in the simplicity as it is in Christ. 2 Cor. xi. 3. And as I have seen, that a view to live high, hath been

stumbling block,-and that what some appeared to aim at, was no higher than many, esteemed of the foremost rank in our society, lived;-there hath been a labour upon me, that in this respect, the way may be cast up; and the stumbling-block taken out of the way of the people. Isa. lvii. 14. And here, the inexpressible love of Christ, in denying himself, and enduring grief for our sakes, is often before me, as an example for us to follow, in denying ourselves of things pleasant to our natural inclinations, that we may example others in the pure Christian life, in our age.

Second. In regard to thieves, I have had many serious thoughts, and often been jealous over myself, lest by withholding from a poor man, what our heavenly Father may intend for him, through me, I should lay a temptation in his way, to steal: and I have often felt a care, that no desire for riches, or outward greatness, may prompt me to get that in my house, which may create envy, and increase this difficulty.

Third. I have sometimes wrote wills for people, when sick, and expecting soon to leave their families, and who had but little to divide among their children: and I have so far felt a brotherly sympathy, that their cares have become mine, in regard to a comfortable living for them. And here, expensive customs have often made the prospect less clear. Expensive customs, on such occasions, have often affected me with sadness.

Fourth. The manner of taking possession of the silver mines, south-westward, the conduct of the conquerors toward the natives, and the miserable tail of many of our fellow creatures, in those mines;

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