liest writings, is first introduced, because in divers of his letters, there is a reference to, if not a repetition of, some of the narratives and circumstances mentioned in the preceding Journal. Another reason for this preference, is contained in the sentiment of H. Tuke, that "among the various means of developing human characters, private letters form an important and interesting part." The essay on Future Rewards and Punishments, in answer to Relly's Treatise of Union, appears to have been written about the year 1785 or 6. It was laid before the Meeting for Sufferings, and, as appears by a memorandum found in the original manuscript, approved, and liberty given for its publication. We are also informed that it was placed in the hands of one of the author's particular friends for that purpose, but from some peculiar circumstances, was not then published. It may now seem somewhat obsolete; but, on a careful perusal, the concern of the author, his arguments, and illustrations of scripture testimony, may be found interesting to the reader. The remarks on Liberty and Necessity, were penned in Ireland about three months before his decease. Most of the essays in this volume, and those in Appendix to vol. I., have been compared with, and corrected, where needful, by the original manuscripts, as left by the author. This may account for some variations from the printed copies of some of the essays. JOHN COMLY. Byberry, 12th mo. 1830. CONTENTS. A Treatise on Church Discipline, &c. The Faith and Patience of the Saints, displayed in their not mak- Future Rewards and Punishments maintained, as evidently held forth in the scriptures, &c. including Observations by way of EPISTOLARY CORRESPONDENCE, &c. To Phebe Field, Gloucester. Providence, 30th of 10th month, 1774. Respected friend, By this opportunity I may just inform thee, that since I last saw thee, I have often had to remember thee, with earnest desires for thy everlasting welfare, and that thou mayst be favoured with strength, willingness, and engagement in the depth of humility, to follow the light, wheresoever it leadeth. And Oh! that the things of this world may not hinder thy advancement heaven-ward. The danger is so great, that I believe many well-inclined persons, not knowing or thinking themselves in any very imminent danger, have thereby been entangled in that which hath made a lamentable separation between God and their precious souls. But I heartily wish thou mayst escape this, and all other enchanting things, and be preserved through all difficulties, and through the tribulations which all those must endure, whose garments are washed and made white in the blood (the life) of the lamb. a Think not, my friend, that thy trials are harder than others. The path which our blessed leader trod to glory, and in which all must follow him that will be his, was such as made him " man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief." And if thou feelest poverty, and want, and sorrow, murmur not, nor think it strange. The Lord knows what is best for thee, and that he will deal out to thee. Thou must expect he will lead thee in the way he hath led the rest of his flock. And thou mayst depend on him, that when he hath sufficiently humbled thee, and thou art made willing to give up all, and serve him in truth and |
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