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Un des symboles suivants apparaltra sur la dernidr«> image de cheque microfiche, selon le cas: le t/mbole -^ signifie "A SUIVRE", le symbols V signifie "FIN". i\/laps, plates, charts, etc., may be filmed at different reduction ratios. Those too lerge to be entirely included in one exposure ere filmed beginning in the upper left hand corner, left to right and top to bottom, as many frames as required. The following diagrams illustrate the method: Les cartes, planches, tableaux, etc., peuvent Atre filmAs A des taux de reduction diffArents. Lorsque le document est trop grand pour Atre reproduit en un seul cli'ihA, ii est film A A partir de I'angle supArieur gauche, de gauche A droite, et de haut en bas, en prenant le nombre d'images nAcessaire. Les diegrammes suivants illustrent la mAthode. rata >elure, I A H 32X 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 RULES OF DISCIPLINE -OF- GENESEE YEARLY MEETING OF- FRIENDS REVISED, 6th Mo., 1885. PICTON, ONT. PRINTED AT "THE GAZETTE" STEAM PRINTING HOUSE. 1885. INTRODUCTION. It appears by the Scriptures of Truth, that in the morning of the gospel dispensation, the apostles and believers in Christ found it expedient to meet to- gether for the purpose of divine worship, and foi the promotion of the cause of righteousness ; manifesting a Godly care for the preservation one of another, that all might walk by the same thing, answerable to that precept of Jesus : "One is your master, even Christ ; and all ye are Brethren." Agreeably to the practice of the primitive Chris- tians, we believe it to be our duty not only to meet together for the worship of God, but also for the exer- cise of a christian care of each other, for the preserva- tion of all in unity of faith and practice. For this important end, and as an exterior hedge of preserva- tion against the temptations and dangers to which we are exposed, the following Rules of Discipline are adopted for the government of Friends, overseei*s, and meetings, with a view that in the exercise thereof, the unfaithful, the immoral, and the lukewt*rm or indiffer- ent may be seasonably reminded of their danger and their duty ; as well as of the labor which in gospel love hath been fiom time to time bestowed for their health and recovery ; and that such as continue to reject i 4 INTRODUCTION. the convictions of truth, and the counsel of their breth- ren, and refuse to be reclaimed, may be made sensible that they themselves are the sole cause of their separa- tion from our religious fellowship and communion. — For when any, by their inconsistent or disorderly conduct, or by imbibing and adopting principles and practices contrary to the doctrines which we hold, have first openly manifested their disunity with the Society, it is just and requisite, that after endeavoring to restore them without effect, the body should testify its disunity with such erring and refractory members ; at the same time earnestly desiring that they may be convinced of the errors of their ways, and that through unfeigned repentance, and a consistent, orderly conduct in future, they may be reunited. This being the utmost extent of our Discipline respecting delinquents, it is very evident that from the right exercise thereof, no degree of persecution or imposition can be justly in- ferred ; for the imposition would rest entirely on the part of those who might insist on being retained as members, whilst at open variance with the Body, either in principle or practice. In the administration of the Discipline, it is our duty to treat with delinquents in tenderness and iovo, agree- ably to apostolic advice : "Brethren, if a man be over- ly .ken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness ; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted." And, according to gospel order: i ( INTRODUCTION. "If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone ; if he shall Lear thee, thou hast gained thy brother ; but if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established ; and if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it into the Church." For the more regular and effectual support of the order of the Society, besides the usual meetings for the purpose of divine worship, others for the exercise of our Discipline are instituted, subordinate to each other, as : First— Preparative Meetings, which com- monly consist of the members of a meeting for worship ; Secondly— Monthly Meetings or Executive Meetings which generally consist of several Preparative Meet- ings ; Thii-dly- Quarterly and Half- Yearly, Meetings, consisting of several Monthly Meetings; and Fourthly The Yearly Meeting, consisting of ail the Quarterly and Half Yearly Meetings. These Meetings have distinct allotments of service ; and experience has abundantly shown that when they are attended in humility and the love of the Lord, with an eye single to His honor, and the benefit and edifica- tion one of another, they do not require man to preside in them ; being favored with spiritual aid and direction from the Holy Head, by which Friends are preserved in harmony and christian condescension. It is, there- fore, the indispensable duty of Friends, in their meet- i '> INTKODUCTION. itiqs for tlie exercise of the Discipline, humbly to wait for divine influence, which will endue with patience and qualify thera in their several stations and move! ments, to build up one another in "that faith which works by love to the purifying of the heart." "Finally, Brethren, whatsoever thinjjs are true, what, soever things are honest, whatsoever things are just whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of <.ood lej^ort ; if there be any virtue, and if there beany i)ruisp, think of these things." . NOTE, In accordance with the cietlaration of the apostle that male and female are one in Christ, the following rules of Discipline are to be understood as alike appli- cable to both sexes, although the masculine gender is generally made use of. MEETINGS FOR WORSHIP. Friends are affectionately and pressmgly advised duly to attend all our public meetings held for the sol- emn purpose of divine worship ; and carefully to avoid permitting any slight pretence or worldly business to occasion their absence from them : or induce them to f MEKTINHS FOR WOHSHIP. 7 leave their children, or those placed under their care, engaijed in their temporal concerns ; bearing in remem- brance that the solemn inquiry will be made, "What hast thou done with those lambs committed to thy care V Happy will it be for those who feel the sup- porting evidence, that they have endeavored, in prefer- ence to all other concerns, to train them up in the nur. ture and admonition of the Lord. When assembled, Friends should be diligent in wait- ing upon the Lord, with fervent desires to be fa\ ored with the enjoyment of His life-giving presence, and to be preserved from wandering thoughts, and from a lukewarm and drowsy state. Thus, tender-hearted in- quirers would be encouraged to come and partake, in our solemn assemblies, of that inward and spiritual refreshment, which is at times graciously imparted to the souls of the humbly devoted, who are taught by experience that faithfulness in devoting time to the at- tendance of religious Meetings, qualifies them to fulfil, with more propriety, the duties they owe to God, to their families and to mankind. Those who frequently neglect, or do not seasonably attend our religious Meetings, or go out and in, unne- cessarily, or otherwise disturb them, should be cau- tioned and admonished; and parents and heads of fam- ilies ai'e exhorted to have a religious care, in these res- pects, over their children and thos*} who are under their tuition. V MEETINGS FOR DISCIPLINE. Meeting for Discipline having by long experience been found of manifest benefit to those who are con- cerned to attend them, as well as to the Society at large, Friends are entreated to be diligent in this im- portant duty, and to encourage the attendance of the youth. Meetings for Discipline are subordinate and accounts able in the following manner : Preparative nieeting» to the monthly meeting, or executive meetings; month- ly and executive meeting to the quarterly and half- yearly meeting ; and quarterly and half-yearly meet- ings to the yfearly meeting. No quarterly or half yearly meeting is to be set up or discontinued but by the yearly meeting; no monthly or executive meeting, but by the quarterly or half- ycrly meeting ; no preparative meeting, or a meet- ing for worship, but 'oy the monthly or executive meeting, with the approbation of the quarterly or half-yearly meeting ; and if at any time the yearly meeting be dissatisfied with the proceedings of any of the said meetings ; or a quarterly or half-yearly meeting with the proceedings of any of its monUily or executive meetings ; or a monthly or executive meeting with the proceedings of any of its prepara- tive meetings ; they are to render a full and clear I MEETINr.H FOR DISCIPLINE. I account when required. Each preparative, monthly, executive, (quarterly or half-yearly meeting, may change the hour and day of holding their meetings as shall liest suit their convenience, but when any meeting makes such a change it shall forward information thereof to its superior meeting. Executive meetings are composed of the members of one or more meetings for worship or preparativ meetings, and have the authority and general con- stitution of monthly meetings. These meetings are to be held once in three months, at suitable times preceding the quarterly or half-yearly meeting to which they are to report. Additional meetings may be held whenever necessary, upon call of the overseers, announced at the close of a meeting for worship. Monthly meetings may be changed into executive meetings by obtaining the consent of the quarterly or half yearly meeting. Each established meeting for worship should be a preparative meeting, except in cases where a month- ly or executive meeting shall judge it inexpedient. Business from persons not of our society should be brought to the preparative meeting by the over- seers. As the use and design of preparative meetings are, in general, to prepare business for monthly or ex- ecutive meetings. Friends should be careful not to 10 MKKTIXCiS FOU niSCIPLINK . occasion uiineoessaiy delay; and preparative ineeting-.s are not to receive or disown members, nor decide in any case which ought to chiim the attention of monthly or executive meetings ; and each preparative meeting should keep a record of its pr()c MEETINGS FOR MINISTERS AND ELDERS. ir Is- When Elders remove from one monthly or execu- tive meeting to another, they are not to be recom- mended as Elders to the monthly or executive meeting to which they remove. No Friend is to travel abroad as a Minister, or ap point meetings, unless previously recommended by the monthly or executive meeting ; but it is not hereby intended to debar a Friend, not recommended, from accompanying, in a short journey, a recommended jVIinister traveling in the ministry ; or, in a more ex- tensive one, if he obtain the concurrence of the monthly or executive meeting ; and, in a minute given him, nothing should be mentioned relative to his ministry. When a Minister has a religious concern to travel in the ministry within the limits of the quarterly or half-yearly meeting to which he belongs, the appro- bation of the monthly or executive meeting should be obtained, except in appointing a few meetings near home, when the consent of the Ministers and Elders of his own particular meeting will be sufficient ; if his concern be to travel in other parts of the yearly meet- ing, a certificate or minute vill be requisite, unless, in miaking a visit in a neighboring quarterly or half- yearly meeting, the moi.thly or executive meeting should judge a minute unnecessary. Should a minister have a concern to make an ex- tensive visit, amongst those not of our society, or a general visit in another yearly meeting, the concur f MEFTi:>GS FOR MlNIbTERS AND ELDKRF. 17 reiice of the quarterly or half-yearly meeting is to be obtained, and endorsed on the monthly or executive meeting's certificate, signed by the clerks, unless from some peculiar circumstances the monthly or executive meeting shou'i conclude that too great inconvenience would result from his waiting for th« quarterly or half-yearly meeting ; the certificate of the monthly or executive meeting is to be signed by the clerks or by the meeting more at large, as the case may require. When a Minister has a concern, to make a religious visit to Europe, or to other foreign parts, as the clear- est evidence should be obtained in the undertaking, the concern, together with the certificates of the monthly, executive, quarterly or half-yearly meetings, is to be laid before the yearly meeting for its appro- bation, and, if that be obtained, a certificate thereof, signed by the clerks, should be given. As the performance of religious visits to families is a service which, under right direction, has proved us«f ul and instructive, for the encouragement of Min- isters, it is advised, that those who have a concern to make a general visit of this kin4) even in the monthly or executive meeting to which they belong, should have the concurrence of the meeting ; and if the con- cern extend to the families in another monthly or executive meeting, a minute of concurrence ought to be obtained. Should a Minister, when remote from home, on ap- m 18 MiiKTIxns FOR MINISTERS AND E'.DKRl. pointiiients of tlie yearly meeting, or representrtive committee, have a cncern to appoint a few meetings, he is at liberty to proceed therein, after obtaining the approbation of the committee in company,' together with such other Friends as can be conveniently con- sulted. In order to guard against impositions. Friends are advised, when strangers come amongst them in the ca- pacity of Ministers, to see that they are furnished with minutes or certificat3S. Monthly and executive meetings should take care that Friends to whom certificates or minutes to travel liave been granted, return them seasonably. As the occasion of our religious meetings are solemn, a care should be maintained to guard against every thing tending to disorder or interruption ; none are to oppose, in a religious meeting, a Friend when publicly speaking, whether he be a recommended Minister or not, whilst in unity as a member ; but should any Friend have objections to what is delivered, he is to speak to the individual privately ; previous to which, it is advised, that the dissatisfaction be communicated to one or more of the Elders for advice and assistance. When meetings are disturbed by improper commu- nications, it should be the care of the Ministers and Elders to take suitable opportunities witli the person who has given cause for concern, and to extend advict and counsel as may appear neoessary ; and if he con- MEKTIXGS FOR MINISTERS AND ELDEUji. 19 tinue to distuib our meetings for worship, he should be further admonished ; aid provided the desired eft'ect should not be produced, the case should be laid before the preparative meeting of Ministers and Elders, that farther care may be extended ; but should the Friend still persist therein, this meeting ought to lay it before the monthly or executive meeting for discipline, which should proceed to labor with him or her to convince them of the impropriety of their conduct, that they may be restored to harmony with the body. As much depends on the conduct and example of Ministers and Elders, meetings have been established amongst them for the purpose of examining whether they are all preserved in an exemplary walking, answerable to their station ; where advice and caution may be administered for the help and strength one of another, as may appear necessary ; and with this \ie\v the following queries are recommended to be read and answered in them : Query I. Are Ministers and Elders diligent in at- tending meetings for worship and discipline, and care- ful to encourage their families to attend them 1 II. Are Ministers careful to minister in the ability which Truth gives, avoiding tones, unbecoming ges tures, and enlarging their testimonies so as to become burdensome ? III. Are the Elders careful to entourage those young ill the ministry whose communications give 20 MEETINGS FOR MINISTERS AND ELDFKS. evidence of right authority, and do tliey discourag© forward persons whose communications do not givr» such evidence ? IV. Are Ministers and Elders preserved in lov<; and fellowship one with another and with the meetings to which they belong, manifesting u religious concern for the advancement of Truth ? V. Are they good examples in uprightness and mol- eration, and careful to instruct their families in the principles and testimonies of our religious society ? The following advices are to be read in each pre- parative and quarterly meeting of Ministers and Elders after reading and anhwcring the queries, viz : 1. Let Ministfc'rs in the'r testimonies be cautious of using unnecessary preambles, and of asserting too positively a Diyine impuse ; the baptizing power of Truth accompanying their words being the true evi dence, 2. They are adviaevl to read the Scriptures of Truth frequently ; and be careful r.ot to misquote nor mis- apply them. 3. Let Ministers le careful how they enter upon disputed points in their testimonies or of making ob- jections they do not clearly answer. 4. Let all be cautious of interrupting the solem- nity cf meetings by unnecessary additici s lev. aids the conclusion. MEETINGS FOR MINISTERS AND ELDERS. 21 5. And hstly, let all dwell in that life which gives ai>ility to labor successfully in the church of Christ, adorning the doctrinj they deliver to others, by bein^ good examples in deed, in word, in convrsation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, and in purity of life. Th 3 meetings of Ministers and Elders are consti* tuted and held in the following manner, namely : The Ministers and Elders of each monthly or exe:- utiTe meeting ar** to meet once in three months, and compos'^ a preparative meeting of Ministers and Eld- ers ; unless the quarterly or half-yearly meeting for discipline, from some peculiar circumstances, should judge it most advisable that it be constituted of the Ministers and Elders of more than one monthly or executive meeting ; ami after some time spent in solid retirement, they are to read the aforesaid Queries, and prepare answers suitable to tbeir state. Each pre- parative meeting is to appoint a suitable number of representatives to attend the quarterly meeting of Ministers and Elders, and to lay before it the answers to the queries, and such other business as the prepara- tive meeting may direct. The quarterly meeting is composed of all the preparative meetings of Ministers and Elders within the limits of the quarterly or half- yearly meeting for discipline ; and the queries, with the answers from the preparative meetings, are to be read in that meeting, and the substance of them enter- ed on its minutes ; a summary of the answers received 22 Mi:i:TIN(iS FUU MlMSTi:i{.-i AN'I) KLDKR1. I !' • at t1n' y tlu! n'|)re.seiitati\os to the yearly iiieetiiij,' of Ministers and El(ly which an oppor- tunity will l»e furnished for the extension of sueh ad- vice and care as may appear neccKsary. The meetings of Ministers and Elders are not to interfere with any part of the exercise of the discipline of the Church, appertainin;^ to nieetinj^s for discipline. Proi>arativt! ineetin«,rs of Ministers and Elders arc^ desired to ha\ e a watchful care over the members of their meetiny neglie released from their stations ; tlie said me(;tings, if their broth- erly care toward them do not [)roduce the desired effect, are to put the cases in a way to come before the monthly or executive meeting, in order that they may be released from being members of tlip meeting of Ministers and Elders, should the niontldy orexecuti\e meeting deem it necessary. As tlie Author of all Good continues fiom time to time to open amongst us the spring of living ministry, it is fervently desired, that Ministers and Elders may BO dwell under the I)ivine influence as to be enabled to discern when otfcrings proceed from the right source, •ience a (lualiti- -y .pen lo cation to }»e nursing fathers and mothers to those wl are ycung in the ministry ; with gentleness ar.d wih- I!E1'HKHI:NTATIVK COMMrnKK. •23 (lom rtdvisinjj; and oncounigiug them to abide in .sinj})l(5 and patient sulnnissioii to the will of (Jod, and to keep to the openings of Divine love in themselves in order that they may witness a gradual growth in their gifts. Ministers and Elders are tenderly advised to watch over the Hock in their respective places and stations, evincing, by their pious example in conduct and con- versation, that they are faithfully devoted to support the testimonies of the blessed Truth. REPRESENTATIVE COMMITTEE. In order that the Yearly Meeting may be properly represented in its intervals, a committee of Friends is to be appointed by said meeting once in three years to meet at such time and place as it may direct or authorize, by the name of the Representative Com- mittee. The following directions are to be observed by the Representative Committee : 1st. It shall keep minutes of its proceedings, and lay them annually before the yearly meeting. 2d. Eight members shall constitute a meeting capa- ble of transacting business. 24 REPRESENTATIVE COMMITTEE. 3d. Four members may call a special meeting when they shall judge it necessary. 4th. Provided a vacancy occur by the decease or removal of a member, the said committee is to notify the yearly meeting of such death or removal, in order that the vacancy may be filleti up by a new appoint- ment. The services confided to the Representative Com- mittee are : — 1st. In general, to represent the yearly meeting, and to act on its behalf in cases where the interest or reputation of our religious society may render it ne- cessary. 2d. To have the oversight and inspection of all manuscripts proposf.d to be printed, relating to our religious principles or testimonies, and to promote or discourage the publication of them at their discretion ; to reprint and distribute any writings already pub- lished, which they may judge would be useful ; and when expenses are incurred in the execution of these duties, they are to draw on the treasurer of the yearly meeting for the amount. 3d. To inspect and ascertain titles to land, or other estates belonging to any of our meetings ; and to at- tend to the appropriation of charitable legacies and donations. 4th. To receive from the quarterly or half-yearly REPRESENTATIVE COMMITTEE. 25 ^ inoetings, such memorials concerning deceased Friends as shall be forwarded ; that, after the necessary in- spection and coarection, they may be laid before the yearly meeting ; unless, in some cases, the said Com- mittee should on solid consideration, judge it incxpe dient. 5th. To extend such advice and assistance to persons under sufferings for our testimonies, as their cases may require ; and to apply to the Government, or persons in authority, on these and other occasions as they may judge necessary. 6th. To correspond, as occasion may require, with other Representative Committees. Any member who feels a concern shall be at liberty to attend the sittings of this meeting. OVERSEERS. i Although it is the duty of every faithful member of our society to advise and admonish those who are guilty of unbecoming or disorderly conduct ; yet that it may not be overlooked or neglected, it should be more particularly the business of overseers ; who, it is desired, may treat with them, in the spirit of meek- ness and restoring love, patiently endeavoring to in- 26 OVERSEERS. struct and advise them ; but should their labor prove ineffectual, the preparative meeting should, in due season, be informed of the cases, that, if neccessary, they may be laid before the monthly or executive meeting. Two or more faithful and judicious Friends should be appointed by the monthly or execuiire meeting to be orerseers in each preparative meeting ; who ought to exercise a tender and vigilant care over their fellow members, that if any thing contrary to the harmony and good order of our religious society appear, it may be seasonably attended to. Although it is considered necessary that overseers should be ir vested with some discretionary power, yet, as the reputation of the society may sometimes suffer l>y their retaining cases too long, and as delinquents may not be benefited by the indulgence, overseers are advised to a due and careful consideration of the im-« portant trust committed to them, and of the respon- sibility of their station, that cases may not be unsea- sonably kept from the meeting. Monthly and executive meetings are earnestly de- sired to give weighty attention to the pointings of Wisdom in their choice for this important service in the church ; that those may be appointed, whose con- cern for the support of our christian testimony, in its various branches, may tend to the preservation of good order. QUERIES. 'Zl As great care and deliberation are necessary in ap- pointing overseers, it is advised, as a safe and prudent step, that monthly and executive meetings appoint a committee to take the subject into consideration ; and, at the succeeding meeting, to propose such Friends as they may agree upon to fill the station in each prepar- ptire meeting, and the names should be separately proposed and considered. QUERIES. The seven following Queries are to be distinctly read, and deliberately considered in each preparative monthly or executive meeting before the quarterly or half-yearly meeting immediately preceding the yearly meetin«r, and before the half-yearly and second quar- terly meeting succeeding the yearly meeting, in order that Friends may be led into an individual examina- tion whether their practice is consistent with their profession, and that Ministers, Elders, Overseers and other concerned Friends, may beincited to discharge their duty in faithfully administering counsel, admo- nition and encouragement. In order to convey to each half-yearly and quarterly meeting in which the queries are to be iread ; a c^neral account of the state of our society, full and explicit 28 QUERIES. answers are to l»e gi*v«^n, by each preparative meeting preceding the monthly or executive meeting, which precedes the half-yearly meeting or the seuond quar- terly meeting subsequent to the yearly meeting, to the first, second, third, and seventh queries, and these answers are to be digested in the monthly or executive meeting and concise summaries of them forwarded to the half-yearly or quarterly meeting, when they are in like manner to be read and considered. And once in the year, namely in the preparative, monthly orcxecu- iv^e meetings before the half-yearly or quarterly meet- ing which precedes the yearly meeting. The first seven queries avo. in like manner to be read and considered ; and each of them to be particularly and distinctly an- swered, and summaries of the answers to be forward- ed by the half-yearly or quarterly meetings to the yearly meeting, in order that they may convey to it a clear account of the state of Society within its limits. The eighth query is to be read and answered in the monthly or executive, quarterly, and half-yearly meetings preceding the yearly meeting : First Query — Are Friends diligent in the attend- ance of all our meetings for worship and discipline; is the hour observed, and do they avoid all unbecoming behavior in them ? Second Query — Do Friends maintain love and fel- lowship towards each other as becomes our Christian profession ? When differences arise is due care taken speedily to end them, and do they avoid and discour- age tale-bearing and detraction 1 "i Qt'ERlES. 2<» ft: Third Query — Are Friends clear of the use of all intoxicating liquors as a beverage ? Are they thought- ful to extend a proper influence towards total absti- nence in their neighborhoods, and to give due help and encouragement to the intemperate for their refor- mation ; and do they avoid frequenting ta\ erns and attending places of diversion of demoralizing ten- dencies ? Fourth Query — Are the circumstances of the poor and of those who appear likely to require assistance, duly inspected, is relief reasonably afforded them 1 Are they advised and assisted in such employments as they are capable of ; and are their children acquiring an education sufficient to fit them for business ? Fifth QueiIY — Do our members maintain a faith- ful testimony in favor of a free gospel ministry resting upon Divine qualification alone ; and do they bear a faithful testimony against war, oaths and all forms of oppression. Sixth Query. — Are Friends careful to be just in their dealings and punctual in complying with their engagements ; to live within the bounds of their cir- cumstances ; and to avoid involving themselves in business beyond their ability to manage as becomes our christian profession ; and when any give occasion for fear in these respects are they timely admonished and advised for their preservation, or for their re- covery 1 30 ADVICES. Seventh Query — Is care taken seasonably to labor with dv?linquents, in the spirit of meekness, for their restoration ? Eighth Query — Are the answers to the queries forwarded by subordinate to superior meetings the substance of, and founded on the answers from the preparative meetings 1 ADVICES. The following advices are to be read and carefully considered in the preparative, monthly, or executive, quarterly and halC-yearly meetings, after the queries are answered. Friends are advised frequently to read the Scrip- tures of Truth, and to encourage the practice in others : to prevent the introduction of pernicious literature into their families by supplying that which is profita- ble and inviting in its stead ; to be guarded in their conduct and conversation, and to avoid the vain fashions and customs of the world ; to inspect freT^uently the state of their temporal affairs, and to be always pro- vided with wills agreeably to the tenor of the disci- pline on that subject. Friends are earnestly advised to keep themselves in plainness of speech, deportment, and apparel becoming ADVICES 31 our christian profession, and to use their endeavors with their children to induce them to also observe this testimony. It is also desired that our members do not violate our testimony against war in any respect, and that when any are brought into suffering on this account they may manifest a disposition comporting with our christian profession. Friends are most earnestly counseled to abstain from partaking of any intoxicating liquors as a bev- erage, to avoid renting their property for their sale, or selling their grain or other produce used in their manufacture for such purposes, and to avoid the use of Tobacco in any form. Due care should be taken that our members are clear of beiug concerned in lotteries, or in any schemes of like character, and that none are concerned in ille- gal trade or (dealing in prize goods. Friends should endeavor in all their dealings to maintain a truly christian character ; bearing in mind the injunction, "Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in Heaven." The following recommendation is to be read in the preparative, monthly or executive, quarterly, and half-yearly meetings in which the queries are answered preceding the yearly meeting. Friends should avoid all contention and personal i, 32 TREATINT. WITH DELINQUENTS. reflect'ons in our nieetings for fliacipline, and be carr- f III to keep out of all e?;citing discussions in them ; that they may be conducted in the peaceable spirit and wisdom of Jesus, with propriety, forbearance, and love for each other. • TREATING WITH DELINQUENTS. It is advised that delinquents be treated with in a christian spirit, and in the persuasive language of love and tenderness ; that the evil of their conduct may be laid before them, in order to bring them to a sense of it in themselves, and to promote their restoration. Should those who transgress manifest a spirit of opposition, yet we ought patiently and meekly to instruct and advise them, that we may not only have the reward of peace in ourselves, bu*- that it may so affect the spirits of those spoken to, as to make them sensible that we have performed a christian duty, and an office of brotherly love towards them. If any re- ject this tender labor, the overseers are to acquaint the preparative meeting thereof in order, if necessary, that the case may be forwarded to the monthly or executive meeting ; that further care may be taken, according to our established rules ; and notice should V)e given to the party, when it can reasonable be TREATING WITH DELINQUENTS. 33 / done, previous to its being laid before the preparative meeting. In all cases, when it appears to a monthly or exec- utive me»>ting, that the necessary labor has been be- stowed on a delinquent member, and it apprehends it right that he should be disowned, the monthly or executive meeting is to appoint a committee to have a suitable interview with him, to inform him of the judgment of the meeting ; and furnish him with a copy of the complaint against him, if required, and acquaint him with the privilege of appealing. On this occasion, it is particularly desirable that the committee should endeavor to leave him in a ten- der disposition of mind. Persons who have been disowned, and wish to be- come members, stand on the ground of requesters. If any member of our society should be guilty of gross or notorious crimes, or such disorderly and inde- cent practices as occasion public scandal ; he should be specially labored with by the monthly or executive meeting ; and if he cannot be brought to a proper sense of his misconduct, he should be disowned. For the maintenance of our testimony against war, as well as against matters which are publicly known to be scandalous or inconsistent, monthly and execu- tive meetings are at liberty to disown members who have been guilty of such misconduct, and afterwards abscond or depart from amongst us, and thus deprive 34 TKKATINfi Wnrr DKLIXgUENTS. Friends of an opportunity of discharging the c.ire thoy might otherwise extend. When a person coniniits an offense within the verge of a monthly or executive meeting where he resides, hut of which he is not a member hy the rules of set- tlement, the overseers of that meeting are to treat with him, provided they are satisfied he is a member of our soci(!ty, and if the case be of such a nature that it ought to be laid before a meeting for discipline, they are to inform the overseers of the meetinj; of which he is a member ; and if said meeting should request the moathly or executive meeting where he resides to deal with him on their behalf, such meeting may, after the extension of the necessary care, pro- ceed to disown him, if the case refjuires it^ and the result of their laVjor shall be communicated to the meeting of which he was a member. Should any member of our society become dissatis fied with retaining his right of membership, he is to be released on his application to the monthly or exec- utive meeting in writing ; if, after th? necessary care of a committee, in his case, he shall still desire it ; and should any member unite with any other religious society the monthly or executive meeting may erase their names from the records. APPEALS I If any person be dissatisfied with the judgment of a monthly or executive meeting, he may notify the tirst or second meeting thereafter, hut no other, of liis intention to appeal to the next ensuing (quarterly or half-yearly meeting ; which notification the month- ly or executive meeting should enter on its minutes, and appoint four or more Friends to attend the quar- terly or half-yearly meeting with copies of the min- utes relative to the case, and give such explanations as may be necessary. The quarterly or half-yearly meeting is to refer the subject to a committee, (omitting the members of the monthly or executive meeting appealed from,) who are carefully and deliberately to consider the case, and report their judgment respecting it ;and the quarterly or half-yearly meeting shall confirm or reverse the judgment of the monthly or executive meeting, as, on impartial deliberation, shall appear to be right, and inform the appellant of the result. Should the appellant be dissatisfied with the judg- ment of the quarterly or half yearly meeting, and no- tify the next quarterly or half-yei\rly meeting, or the o .e succeeding it, but not afterwards, of his inten- I :U) APPKALK. tion to upply to the yoarly meeting for a further Iioar- iiig. tluMjuurterly or lialf.yMfly meeting should re- cord tho notification, and appoint four or more Friends to attend the yeailyn)eeting, with copies of tlie month ly or executive and quarterly or half-yearly meetings' minutes in the case ; and the decision of the yearly meeting shall he final. It shall he the duty of appellants to furnish the nieiiting appealed to with a written notification of their intention to prosecute tlieir appeal ; and they have a right to he present during the appointment of the committee in their cases ; and ohjections which they may then make to persons nominated on the committee are to he considered by the meeting, and if they appear consistent the person orpersons objected to shall not he placed on the committee. WAPv. Consonant with the precepts and doctrines of the gospel, which breathes peace on earth and good-will towards men, we have found it to be our indispensa- ble duty to bear a faithful testimony against war : it is, therefore, affectionately enjoined on the members of our Society, to demean themselves, on all occasions, in a christian and peaceable manner, demonstrating to WAK. 37 the world, that the} are uniform in profession and practice. Friends are earnestly advised not to unite with any, directly or indirectly, in a way calculated to promote the spirit of war, or which may encourage or strengthen them therein ; to avoid engaging in any business tending to promote war, underwriting on armed vessels, or being concerned in any company where such insurance is made, or shipping or ordering goods shipped, in armed vessels. But should members of our society be so unmindful of our christian testimony against war, as to bear arms, or actively comply with military requisitions, be concerned in warlike preparations, offensive or de- fensive, by sea or land, pay a fine, penalty, or tax, in lieu of personal service, deal in prize goods, direct- ly or indirectly, or be concerned in promoting the publication of writings which tend to excite the spirit of war ; advice should be speedily given them : and they tenderly treated with, in order to bring them to a sense of their error, in departing from this distin- guishing testimony of the society. OATHS. Our testimony againstoaths is founded upon the fol- lowing express and pogitive command of Jesus : "Ye ;J8 OATHS. "have heard that it has been said by them of old time, "thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform "unto the Lord thine oaths; but I say unto you, swear "not at all ; neither by Heaven, for it is God's throne ; 'nor by the earth, for it is his footstool ; neither by "Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King ; "neii/her shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou "canst not make one hair white or black : but let "your communication be yea, yea, nay, nay ; for "whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil." — Matth. V. 33 to 37. This testimony, we also find, was clearly held up and emphatically enjoined by the apostle James upon his christian brethren : "But above all things, my "brethren, swear not ; neither by bf^aven, neither by "the earth, neither by any other oath ; but let your "yea be yea, and your nay, n-ey, lest ye fall into "condemnation."- -James v. 12. Believing that no argument can invalidate prohibi- tions, thus clear and positive, we are bound religious- ly to regard them. But should any member of our society so far disre- gard our testimony herein, as in any case to take or administer an oath, he should be admonished and per- suaded to avoid such practices in the future. I SPIRITUOUS LIQUORS. In consideration of the corrupting and ruinous ef- fects produced by the use of intoxicating drinks, re- sulting in the destruction of those noble powers given to man by his Creator, for wise and benevolent purpo- ses, it is affectionately desired that none in member- ship with us contribute to the spreading of this great evil by the use of such drinks as a beverage, or by be- ing concerned in the importation, distillation or man- ufacture and sale of spirituous or malt liquors, or by renting their property for any of these purposes ; but if any should so far disregard the concern of the Soci ety as to be concerned in them, or unnecessarily use it themselves, or furnish it to those in their employ, or sell their grain or other produce for the purpose of the manufacture of such liquors, they should be care- fully and tenderly labored with that they may be in- duced to desist from such practices. TAVERNS. The youth as well as those of riper age, are caution* ed against unnecessarily frequenting taverns, and other places of public resort ; that they may not be exposed o'^ noisy company and unprofitable conversation, or \ 40 GAMING AND DIVERSIONS. betrayed into the use of intoxicating drinks ; by which many have been corrupted in principle and practice, to the ruin of themselves and their families. If any give way to these evil practices, they should be timely and tenderly treated with, in order to con- vince them of their danger. GAMING AND DIVERSIONS. Friends are not to attend places of diversion of an immoral character, or those that f.re demoralizine; in their tendency, or practice any other kind of gaming ; but should any be concerned in, or give way to either of those practices they should be labored with in the spirit of love to convince them of their misconduct and for their restoration ; and if their participations therein has been such as t© be immoral, and they can- not be convinced of their error after an extension of proper care, they should be discontinued as members. DEFAMATION AND DETRACTION. Should any of our members be guilty of tale-bearing, traducing, or speaking evil of others, or busily med- dling with their affairs, when not concerned, tending to excite strife and disccrd, or cause disesteem amongst MINISTRY. 41 brethren or neighbors, they are to be suitably treated with ; and, if they do not make satisfaction, they should be disowned. Friends are exhorted to act with due circumspec- tion, that, in their conversation and conduct amongst men, they may do nothing to the hurt or reproach of any ; and should a Friend hear of a scandalous and injurious report of another, he ought to discounte- nance it, by showing the reporter the evil and injus- tice thereof ; and then, without spreading it, he should go to the person whom it concerns, or advise him of it, that he may have an opportunity to clear himself, if innocent, or make satisfaction if guilty ; and should this private labor prove ineffectual, the overseers ought to be informed, that he may be treated with consistently with our discipline. MINISTRY. As it is by the immediate teaching and influence of the Holy Spirit, that acceptable worship is per- formed, and gospel ministry brought forth ; as this powerful influence is the essential qualification for the work ; and as the gift is divine, the service is freely and faithfully to be performed without any view to reward from man, agreeably to the express command 42 MARRIAGES. of Jesus, "Freely ye iiave rec*^ived, freely give." Matt. 10th, 8. When any of our members so disre- gard this testimony as to contribute to the support of a paid ministry as such, or employ such a minister to accomplish their marriages, such conduct being disre- garded as inconsistent with our testimony for a free gospel ministry, they are to be labored with in ten- derness and love that they may oe convinced of their error and restored to harmony with the l)ody. MARRIAGES. Unmarried persons, in membership with us, before they make any procedure with a view to marriage, should seek for right direction in this important con- cern, should early acquaint their parents or guardians with their intentions, and wait for their consent ; liy which they may be preserved from the dangerous bias of forward and uncertain affections. Proposals of marriage are to be presented in wiiting to the preparative meeting of which the woman is a member, signed by the parties, in substance, as follows : To th^ Monthly or Executive Meeting of We, the subscribers, A. B., son of C. & D. B. ; and F. G., daughter of H. & I. G., purpose taking each MARRIAGES. 43 other in marriage ; which we hereby offer for the ap- probation of Friends. (Signed,) A. B. F. G. Should the parties be members of one monthly or executive meeting, the preparative meetinjr is to ap- point two or more Friends, to see if the way be clear for the man's proceeding in marriage ; nd a similar care should be taken by the meeting, concerning the woman. If she be a widow, having children, two or more Friends should also be appointed to see that their rights are legally secfUred. The preparative meeting is to forward the said written proposals, together with the names of the committee appointed in the case, to the next monthly or executive meeting ; when the said committee are required to report, and where consent of parents or guardians is also to be produced, and the parties are to be present ; should they be members of different monthly or executive meetings, the man i;: to produce to the monthly or executive meeting a certificate from the monthly or executive meeting of which he is a member, to be applied for at the preparative meeting to which he belongs, and obtained as in the above case, expressive of his clearness from other like en- gagements ; and should the committee report that there appears to be no obstruction to their proceeding, I 44 MARRIAGES ii the meeting' is to lea^'^e thein at liberty to accomplish their marriage according to the oi'der of our society, cither at a public meeting of Friends, o" at such other suitable place, and at such time, as the monthly or executive meeting may approve. Marriages should be accomplished witli a gravity and weight becoming the occasion ; and the parties and others concerned, are to exercise due care that no cause of reproach take place by any disorderly con- tluct, but that all behave with that order and sol>rietv which become our religious profession. And for the assistance of those immediately con- cerned, two men and two women Friends are to b«' appointed, by the monthly or executive meeting, io attend at the marriage, and should they, or other Friends, observe any inconsistent conduct, they ought as soon as they conveniently can, to admonish those who are disorderly ; and the Friends app< in ed to at- tend at tlie marriage, are to report to the next month- ly or executi\e meeting whether it has been conducted Jiccording to good ortler, and whether the marriage certificate is handed to the Recorder. Friends are advised to avoid making expensive en- tertainments, and inviting large companies. Marriage implies union, as well in spiritual as tem- poral concerns. While the parties differ in religious principles, tJiey stand disunited in the main point, even in that which should increase and confirm their MARRIAGES. 45 mutual happiness, and render them helpmates and blessings to each other. It is therefore earnestly recommended, that parents, and those who have the important chargs of educating youth, instruct them early in the principles of truth, and impress their minds with the necessity of reli- giously observing them. And when it is apprehended that any are lil.jly to form improper connexions, it becomes the duty, not only of parents, but other con- cerned Friends, as soon as may be. in a sfentle, tender manner, to labor with them, and endeavor to show them the inconsistency and danger thereof. When a member of our society has a prospect of accomplishing a marriage with a person not in mem- bership with us, should the latter be of orderly life and conversation, and the parties desire to accom- plish it according to our order, monthly or executive meetings may pc mit them to proceed, in the same manner as if both were members, the same care being observed throughout. In such cases the member re- mains such, but the other is not thereby constitutf d a member. Ik order to prevent marriages between persons of too near akin, it is advised that marriages between tiist cousins shall be avoided amongst us. Monthly or executive meetings are not to permit proposals of marriage to be made in them sooner than •B year after the decease of the husband or wife of the darty. 46 MARRIAGES. No charge of misconduct should be brought for- ward against any person at the time of proposing his marriage, or during its progress in the mc 3ting. Form of Marriage Certificate. A. B., of , town of , county of , and state of , son of C. B. and E. his wife, and F. G. daughter of H. G. and I. his wife, of , town of , county of , and state of , having laid their intentions of marriage with each other before a monthly or executive meet- ing of the religious society of Friends, held at , in the state of , they having consent of^,. , and nothing appearing to obstruct ; their pro- posal of marriage was allowed by the meeting : These are to certify, that for the accomplishment of their intentions, this day of the manth, in the year f they, the said A. B. and F. G. appeared in a public meeting of said society, held at and the said A. B. taking the said F. G. by the hand, did on this sol- emn occasion declare, that he took her to be his wife ; promising through Divine assistance, to be unto her a faithful and loving husband, until separated by death, or words to that effect ; and the said F.G. did, in *If there be parents and Ruardians, insert both ; if only iNtrents. or only guardians, let it be su expressed. tif the mnrriafre is accomplished at a dwelling house, insert :— At the dv'sIlinK house of in the town of in the presence of a committee appointed for that purpose by the month- ly meetins: of said society, and the said A. B. SPEECH, DEPORTMENT AND APPAREL. 47 like manner, declare, that she took the said A B. to be her husband ; promising through Divine assist- ance, to be unto him a faithful and loving wife, until separated by death, or words to that effect. And they, the said A. B. and F. G., she, according to the custom of marriage, assuming the name of her husband, as a farther confirmation thereof, did then and there to these presents set their hands. A. B. F. B. And we being present, have subscribed our names as witnesses thereof. SPEECH, DEPORTMENT AND APPAREL. As our general appearance :n these matters is large- ly indicative of the condition of our minds, as well as helpful or otherwise to ourselves and others, as it con- forms more or less to the high profession we make, we desire that our members shall be thoughtful in regard to the use of plain, kindly and honest words in their speech, avoiding extravagant phrases and formal com- pliments. When our minds are regulated by the spirit and purpose of the peaceable gospel taught by J esus, we believe our speech will reflect with plain- ness and simplicity the kindness, courtesy, justice and 48 THADK. christian regard that lie back of .it, in the soul thus taught. Our deportment should be in keeping with our sur- roundings, serious and reverent in times of worship or solemnity, calm and just during our uealings or in controversy, willing and anxious to see the right on all sides, cheerful and kindly in the family and social relations, thoughtful of the different temperaments of individuals and differing ages, and upon all occasions avoiding hurtful conduct, and maintaining a true dignity becoming our profession. In dress, decency, simplicity and utility should bo observed as the essentials, neatness and good taste cultivated, and extravagance and foolish fashions avoided as being promoters of pride and vanity, and giving evidence of minds drawn aside from thoughts worthy of an intelligent, pure minded man or woman. TRADE. The manifestations of the spirit of truth, when duly regarded, lead out of bondage to the spirit of this world ; V>ut the inordinate love and pursuit of worldly riches, often lead those who are captivated thereby into many diflBculties and danger, and obstruct the work of religion in the heart : And in order that the TRADE. 40 seryice of our religious society may not be lessened, nor its reputation dishonored, by the imprudence of its mend)ers in their worldly r^ngagements, let them be careful not to engage in such business as they do not undo stand, and avoid extending their crnc(!rns beyond their abilities to manage, and at the risk of other^i ; and endeavor on all occasions, strictly to per form their promises, and fultill their contracts. It is pirticularly advised that none "make haste to «»e rich," by engaging in hazardous enterprises ; but that uU c intent themselves with a plain and moderate way of living, consistent with our religious profession. When any amongst us err, or are in danger of erring, in these respects, let them be seasonably and faithfully admonished. It is reconnnended that Friends annually inspect the state of their affairs and keep their accounts so clear and accurate, that they may, at any time, easily ascertain whether they live within the bounds of their circumstances. When any find that there is danger of their not Iiaving sufficient prop*»rty to discharge their just debts, they should immediately consult with some judicious Friends, and if they aJvise it, without loss of time, make their circumstances known to their creditors ; being careful to make a just and equal distribution, avoitling the too common and injurious practice of paying those who stand as securities, in preference to otUsjr creditors. 50 TRAUK. When any persons, by living aliove their means, or from a want of punctuality in fulfilling their con- tracts, give overseers sufficient cause to helieve that they ar** declining in their circumstances, and likely to fail, it is advised that they be seasonably treated with ; and if it appear requisite, counseled to ctOI their creditors together without delay. If, notwithstanding this advice, they s' persist, and run into embarrassment to the injur} . vjthers, and to their own disreputation, the monthly or exec- utive meeting to which they belong, is to be timely informed thereof, and the meeting should proceed to treat with them for their restoration. Cases of public failure in business should be brought to the monthly or executive meeting, unless in cases which are attended with such circumstances as shall induce the overseers and other concerned Friends, whom they may consult, to be united in prospect that it is unnecessary. And when monthly or executive meeting, in exam- ining the cases of thoss who have fallen short of the payment of their just debts, discover conduct which brings a reproach on our religious society, such delin- quents, after the extension of suitable labor, should be disowned, unless they condemn their misconduct in a satisfactory manner. When failures occur, and the cases are under the care of monthly or executive meetings, committees, TIIADE. 51 appointed to visit the parties, are to make due iiujuiry in what manner their accounts liave been kept, and how their deficiencies have happened, and report accordingly. Friends are advised to be cautious in receiving col- lections, or bequests, for tlie use ok* the poor, or other purposes of society, from persons who hiive fallen short of the payment of their just debts, although they may be legally discharged by the voluntary act of their creditors ; for, until such persons have dis- charged their debts, their possessions cannot, in e(}uity, be called their own. When failures of this kind oc- cur, and the debtors decline making further payments towards the remaining balances of their just debts, when of ability to do it, the overseers, after extending the necessary labor, should inform the monthly or executive meeting thereof, which ought to inquire into the cause; and if after atenderand brotherly exam- ination, it should appear that their circumstances are such as to render it clearly advisable that a further payment be offered to the creditors, or that a state- ment of the debtors' affairs should be laid before the creditors, and the question submitted to them, wheth- er a payment should be made at that time, or referred to a future day, let advice be given to them accord- ingly. When Friends accept the office of trustee or as- signee, they should be active in collecting the effects I rr2 TRADE. i 'I ■f ' of the estate, and punctual in making speedy distri- hution. When any in profession with us are about enterin«jf into partnerships in trade, they should keep in view the propriety and safety of connecting themselves with members of our society ; but should any Friend become a partner with a person not in niembershij> with us, and a failure in the performance of engdcje- ments, or neglect of the seasonable payment of just debts on the part of the said partnership, should give reasonable occasion for a procedure at law ; in such case, a creditor, who may may be a member of our society, shall be at liberty to proceed in a legal way : it appearing very improper that the usual course of justice should be obstructed by any of our members connecting themselves with those who are not in pro- fession with us. And let all consider well the ground on which they become endorsers, or joint securities ; lest, for want of due consideration, any involve themselves and families in ruinous circumstances, and risk their own peace of mind. It is affectionately desired, that Friends may be cautious in all their engagements, and not sufTer their minds to be captivated by an inordinate desire of riches ; remembering the observation ilaade by the Apostle, in his day, and often verified in ours, that "They who will be rich, fall into temptation and a I' i flMlUJ ^Wf PARENTS AND CHILDREN. 53 "snare :" and erring from th« faith, "pierce themselves "through with many sorrows." E\en when riches, to any extraordinary degree, have been amassed by the successful industry of pa- rents, how often have they proved like wings to their children ; carrying them beyond the limitations of truth, into liberties inconsistent with our religious testimonies, and sometimes into enterprises, which have terminated in irreparable damage to their tem- poral affairs, and a sorrowful neglect of the great work of the soul's isalvation. PARENTS AND CHILDREN. As, next to our own souls, our children are the immediate objects of our care and concern, par agant memorial s^jones, not in harmony v, 'th our testi- mony in this respect, permission may be granted at RBMOVALS AND CERTIFICATES. 61 the discretion of the committee in charge of funerals. In the spirit of religious toleration no objections sliould be made to the performance of any quiet, or- derly burial service preferred by the friends of the deceased It is advised that our members avoid all extra vu< gance or vain display in the conduct of funerals, man- festing by their simplicity of apparel and serious de- portment, their sympathy with the solemnity of the occasion ; also, that no monuments or extravagant memorial stones be erected within our burial-grounds. This is not intended to prohibit any modest and rea- sonable head-stone or tablet to mark the resting place of the deceased. REMOVALS AND CERTIFICATES. When Friends hcve a prospect of removing, they should be careful not to suffer wrong motives to influ- ence their conclusions ; and before such steps are ta- ken as may close the way to receive advice, they are recommended to consult some of their experienced friends, on the propriety of the proposed removal. When any remove, they should have a certificate from the monthly or executive meeting of which they are members, recommending them to the monthly or 62 REMOVALS AND CERTIFICATES. executive meeting where they are going to reside, ex- pressive only of their right of membership, and legal settlement of temporal concerns, to be founded on inquiry made by a committee appointed for that pur- pose, and the committee are not to confine their inqui- ries to the monthly or executive meeting where the person resides, if there be reeison to believe that his affairs are not settled in other places. If the <;ertifi- cate be for a recommended minister, it should be ex- pressive of the fact. When a certificate of removal is produced to the meeting to which it is directed, it shall be the duty of that meeting to accept it, unless there be some mani- fest obstruction ; and when accepted, the Friend recommended by it shall be a member of that meeting. Removal certificates should be forwarded for ap- prentices, and others under age, who are placed with- in the limits of another monthly or executive meeting. Monthly meetings are advised to extend due care that certificates of removal be seasonably forwarded to the meetings to which they are directed. Certificates of removal are to be preserved, by re- cord or otherwise, by the monthly or executive meet- ing accepting them ; and each meeting should keep records of all certificates which it issues. DIFFERENCES AND ARBITRATIONS. Should differences arise between any members of our society, about their temporal concerns according to ancient and comely order, brother ought not to go to law with brother, except from apparent and urgent necessity, as is hereafter expressed and limited ; namely, the party thinking he has reason of com plaint, is to speak in a calm and friendly manner, or, if he live at a distance too great to do it in person, he should write to the party by whom he thinks himself injured, or in danger of suffering in his just right ; endeavoring by gentle means, in a brotherly manner, to obtain it ; but if this orderly proceeding prove in- effectual, either himself, or, if he live at a distance, some friend to whom he may write and empower on his behalf, should take one or more of the overseers, or other judicious Friends, and in like manner make the claim ; and the Friends accompanying the com- plainant are to use their endeavors to have the matter justly and expeditiously settled between the parties. Should the case appear to be a plain one, or a debt against which no reasonable objection is made by the debtor, they are to advise the party complained of to make satisfaction, without carrying it either to arbi- trators or to the meeting; ; but should there appear to be either unsettled differences in accounts, or cause 64 UIFFERRNCES AND ARBITRATIONS. for dispute, and they cannot effect a settlement be- tween the parties themselves, they are to advise them to submit it to arbitration. If either party refuse to do this, such refusal ought to be represented to the preparative meeting by the overseers, or by the other party, if neglected by them ; previous notice of which is to be given to the person complained of. And, pro vided the parties cannot, by the meetings' care, be brought to an agreement, or refer the subject to arbi- !^ration, the complaint should be carried from the pre- parative to the monthly or executive meeting, previ- ously notifying the party complained of. The first proceeding of th'.: nonthly or executive meeting should be to inquire whether the beforementioned gospel order has been duly observed ; and if it has not, the cociplaint is to be referred back to the preparative meeting, and no notice of the subject taken on minnte ; but should it appear, that the necessary care has been previously taken, the monthly or executive meeting is to appoint a committee to have a conference with the parties, and to ascertain whether the case be at tended with such circumstances as will justify the monthly or executive meeting in advising it to be left to arbitration. Should this appear to be the case by the report of the committee, the parties are to be again advised to submit the subject to arbitration. When a case of difference has been submitted to arbitration, the award ought to be jKnal, unless it DIFPERENCES AND ARBITRATIONS. 69 be- lem to the her lich should appear evident that the arbitrators have mate- rially erred in their judgment, or proceedings, or have not given siifiicient opportunity of producing the ne- cessary evidence in the case ; where this appears evi- ilent to the monthly or executive meeting, the quar- terly or half-yearly meeting should be informed, that the monthly or executive meeting has a case before it, in which it desires assistance ; and the quarterly or half-yeariy meeting is -to appoint a committee to sit with and assist the monthly or executive meeting therein ; aad should it appear on mature considera- tion, that there is cause for dissatisfaction, a rehearing is to be granted by thti same, or other arbitrators and their award, shall be final. When arbitrators are chosen in any case, they ought, as speedily as may be, to appoint time and place, and attend duly to the subject, giving the parties and their witnesses a full and fair hearing, in the presence of each other ; they should avoid unnecessary delay, and make the award within the time appointed. As there may be circumstances which would ren- der it unreasonable to require a compliance with the before mentioned procedure, such as, firstly, the party absconding, or leaving the eountry with the design of defrauding his creditors; or, secondly, when the time it would take to go through the meeting, might be a manifest damage to the creditor or claimant, . as in oases of apparent danger of bankruptcy, and the party 66 DlFFERKNCES AKD ABBITRATIONS. being largely in debt, and other creditors generally commencing suits, or othervrise securing their de* mands ; or when, by the statute of limitation, a claim may be barred in law ; or, thirdly, when there may be danger of future damage to those who may submit thereto, as in the case of executors, administrators, trustees, or Friends who stand as security for those who are not in the membership with us ; it may there^ fore be necesr, or which tends to excite disunity and discord amongst us, they should be treated with that they may be convinced of the impropriety of their conduct. It is incumbent on parents and head» of families to prevent as much as possible, all those under their direction from perusing publications which may tend to weaken their confidence in the christian religion, or may excite doubts concerning the authenticity of the Scriptures, and those important truths declared in them ; lest the^r inexperienced minds, should , be pois- oned thereby, and a foundation be laid for the great- est evils. It is also enjoined on all the meml)ers of our reli- gious society, to discourage and suppress the reading of plays, romances, and all <»ther corrupting books SCHOOLS. m and publications, that have a tendency to awaken and invigorate thos'e evil propensities "which war against the sot^l," and which it is the duty, as well asinurest, of' every christian mind to keep in sub- jection. Printers and booksellers, in membership with us, are cautioned agaiiist printing, selling or lending such books or publications. SCHOOLS. As it is. important that suitable schools for the right education of' our youth should be established, Friends are advised to cherish a liberal disposition, and make such provision jts may .encourage well-qualified per- sons to engage in -■ this useful occupation. For want of teachers of this description, t^re is reason to ap- prehend that children have sometiQies bee.n cotnmitted to the care of persons whose, example and influence have betrayed them into principles and habits, which have had an injurious effect on them in more advanc- ed life Friends should endeavor to procure teachers of our own religions profession, who are not only qualified to instruct the youth in school learning, but to co-operate witid the society in their religious endeavors to excite TO APPBENTlCn. Ai them a love of virtue, and to afford them the good example of a conduct consistent with our principles. Friends are desired to be caref nl in tiie choice of suitable school-books, and to select such as are calcu- lated to direct the susceptible and tender minds of youth in the practice of piety and virtue. APPRENTICES. Children, who are members of our society, should be placed by their parents and guardians, with Friends, unless, after due inquiry, no suitable place can be found ; when application should be made to a m ^n imaginary goddess, .by them worshipped. . . . r The seventh day was called Saturday, from Seater, by them worshipped j or from Saturn, an imaginary deity of the Romans. ir- «?■$ J. .•;•■■ .. « ....I,. .: V «/'* ^. ■ ■■.tit'-:; Introduction, -^ Meetings for Worship, <* Meetings for Discipline '^ Meetings for Ministers and Riders, ,. U Representative Committee « 28 Overseers, ,..*...< ...*^ Queries, - 27 Advices, ^ ^ Treating with Delinquents., S2 Appeals,,..^ "W War,..,. 3« Oaths H.» •. ^ Spirituous Liquors, ♦ , 3JI Taverns , «...., 39 Gaming and Diversions, 40 Defamation and Detraction,. ^ .»....• ^ Ministry, 41 Marriages, , ..,«.• 42 Speech, Deportment and Apparel, 47 Trade, « 48 Parents and Children, 53 Poor, ^ 5r> Request to be received into Membership, , «'>8 Births and Deaths, ...^.. ., , 5ft Removals and Certificates ..*.*. ^I Differences and Arbitration,*.' *..*. ...!...'l.'*. .".".". .**.*!!.. ..... -^ Scriptures of the Old and New Testamenta.! . ,....^' Books, .....' ..,..08 Schools Oft Apprentice? ,.... ^ 70 Civil Govcinnent, , 71 Sufferings, 71 Wills and Donations 72 Memorials 74 Titles of Lands..... .'*.''*.*..'.'.'.'.'.,*....".*.*.*...!'.!.,. .!'.*.!iL!!74 Days ami Times, I, 70