A Strange story this is (Reader) indeed, and beyond the power even of Quakers impu­dence to deny, since 'twas so long transact­ing, so many friends concerned in it, and not in a corner, but in the open face of two Countrie's; testi­fy'd and vindicated at a publick Assize. Certainly the Righteous God by permitting so strong delu­sions as these, designed to expose to common view the temper and tendency of the Spirit of Quakerism; nay, the Devil himself (who one would think is ordinarily one of their Friends.) svern [...] here to have [Page 24]ow'd them a spite, who so long by so enchanting sug­gestions, mannag'd these Persons to the shame of the whole Sect.

That none may read so memorable a thing as common News; nor miss of some good fruit there­by, I annex some Remarks upon it, which shall be directed.

First to the Quakers, or such of them as are most concern'd.

1. Because your good is in special manner here by design'd, and to expose nothing among you b [...] what is perniciously evil, I freely declare, If any o [...] you sincerely value Scripture-light and Rule, and do not adhere to the guidance of this mad Spirit this story intends not to accuse you. H. W. (as you read above) is so just and fair to own all that little hopeful amendment he saw in his envious persecu­tors, and the sounder mind of some Friends who a [...] the first Assize persuaded the Women to do him right, by confessing their Error. One of those sai [...] to John Flee aforesaid, he fear'd the matter would issue in shame to their party; but that great Speaker reprov'd him in these words, dost thou not hear that they say it will bring honour to the truth. He then believed their prophetical Spirit. But I will nor be so Quaker-like as to censure a multitude. For ought whereof I can find tollerable proof that most are innocent. Show the world your dislike of this Spirit and Principle, by disclaiming such who are acted by it, as of late you reject G. K. from your Community, and I shall charge none such, but (my Friends, for why should you not be mine too,) are not you obliged like other men, to satisfy the Church of God what rule you walk by? 1 Pet. 3.15.16. [Page 25]and that you entertain no such wild, wicked doctrines? it is your positive Duty that you renounce, and bear Testimony against what is notorious false and evil; and every honest man readily comes to the light that it may be manifest his deeds are wrought i [...] God. Joh. 3.21. So would we all rejoice, as [...] did over his Children, to see you walking in [...]aistian truth. 2 Ep. Joh. 1.2.

2. Say in earnest, What think ye of these three dear Sisters? True Quakers they were, and owned as such to the last: But what Spirit, what Wild-fire is this that they and you have chose for your Guide? Had not they the same assurance of being divinely respired, as others of you, i. e. their own strong Imagination? Now, if hereby some were deceived, [...]ay not other Quakers also? And will you still be­lieve the Spirits untried? You expect that we be­lieve your Testimony; we demand proof by sound Reason, Scripture, or Miracles, that its God's Testi­nony; and such the Son of God, and his Apostles, did not disdain to give unto Jews and Gentiles; [...]ay, our three Women it seems were convinced how just this is, when they told of a Spi­rits appearing for them in open Court,Joh. 8.24. Wram the Father sends, he leaves not a­ [...], as these were left. Your Spirit in this very story [...]ers Contradictions, bloody Revenges, and sneaking carnal Policies, &c. such God's Eternal Holy Spirit never did. See then what Spirit ye are of, and be instructed by that Man after God's own heart, what to do Psal. 119.59.60.176. Least (to evade the Conviction here offered) you alledge, That this is a [...]gular Instance, and so affects not a party, I referr you to an old Book, The Quaker shaken, and to a late one, The Snake in the Grass, for many more like In­stances, to which in so great plenty, I add a few.

About the date of this Story, Peregrine Dalston of Ouston in Cumberland, fell deep in love with a Neigh­bor Female-friend, and confidently asserted It was re­vealed to him, that if he could swallow his Bed-sheet, it should be a Testimony to him that he should obtain his be­loved Lamkin: Well, the poor Wretch obediently at­tempts it, and (what would the Devil have more) was justly choak'd in the tryal. An older, and more crafty Friend was he, that came by like Revelation to Paul Hobson's House, near Durham, saying, The Lord sent him to Sojourn there, till the Spirit call him elsewhere. Paul Hobsen was then a Man of figure, and his humor was to entertain any fanciful People a [...] few days, so bid him Welcome: This Spark it seem [...] so long liked his Quarters, that a Spirit came up­on his Landlord to devise how to get rid of his Burt, and this was his Expedient; he spake through a Reed into the Enthusiasts chamber, saying, Arise, and go immediately into Wales, where it shall be told th [...] what thou shalt do. This Friend was so loving, that he lay still all night, nor offered next day to depart, till Mr. Hobson said to him, Friend, What sort of a Voice was that I heard from thy Chamber last night [...] Answ. Ah, 'twas a Call of the Spirit to me, &c. and now I must obey it: Which he did. Well-fare Im­plicite Faith. The Story is not yet beyond the me­mory of Man.

Nor that doughty Oracle of a Bristol-Prophet, where the late Reverend Mr. John Paul was Minister of St. James's: That modest Friend came naked into the Congregation, with only a Rope about him, and bel­lowing as their manner was: He dropt his Rope, while some Sinners that better understood the 7th Commandment, cast a Covering over his shame, and b [...] him out: By and by comes another inspired Friend into the Church, crying, Thus saith the Lord, Give the Mr. [Page 27]as Ro-o-pe again. Thus saith the Lord, Give the Man his Rope. A heavenly Prophesy sure; Ay, indeed, of all things 'twere pitty to rob him of what he best deserved, or most needed, to bind him to better [...]aviour: Give him his own, and give him his [...].

Thus William Simpson, one of their greatest Spea­lers, walked naked in Penrith, with his head shaven, and ashes on it, crying, Repent, Repent, Destruction is as hand. Likewise he went thus through many Mar­ket-Towns, and in, or near Carliste, for disturbing [...]e quiet People, was taken to prison; and there he thought he had a Revelation, That that City should [...], and be destroyed within Ten days. This he so pro­claimed, that thereby he affrighted some so far as to remove their Goods; but a little time discovered the Man to be miserably deluded, and for a publick Offence, he was publickly whipt out of Town. See [...] 66.4. They like not this sport now.

About the same time Margaret Mark, Wise of Thomas Mark of Soulby, in the foresaid Parish of Dacrr, turning Quaker, renounced her Husband, would not own him, called him Dog, Devil, &c. very zealous he was for their way, and constant at their Meet­ings; but having disowned her Husband, lived a­part with only on Servant, and spent her time in­dustriously in spinning. To this Servant she shew­ed some very fine Linen, telling what she intended it for. Its written, said she, that a Woman shall compass a Man, and I am the Woman that must be Mother to a second Savlour; and this Cloath I have prepared against that time to wrap him in. Believe me, if the Son of God would be born again, and did not like his old Hanger, I would commend him to a Quaker for soft and warm Lodging, provided he be but a Savi­our [Page 28]to their tooth. See here how the Devil is ape­ing the blessed God, but like a bungler, for honest, pious Mary did cleave to her betrothed Husband. Matth. 1. Stay Reader, and ask, How many Christs and Saviours will this People at length produce? There was but one to come, and he the Son of God, and born of a Virgin: Now he came long ago, and we look not for another, nor is there is Heaven or Earth such another Son of God, nor can be. I know no need of a Second, nor Fault in the first, unless this be one, That he was not born of a Quaker, nor will be confined to save only Quakers, nor will he save any (no not Quakers) but in his own way; they must value his Blood, and submit to the Rule of his Word; but Quakers like not such Terms, therefore will have a second. I admit that this Woman after she was perverted fell melancho­ly a while, but recovered soon to act rationally in all matters as ever she had done; after which she lived eight or ten Years, and all the while a Quaker, continuing to abhor her Husband as a Serpent, if at any time she met him: No wonder, for you see she expected other Fruit of her Womb, but wofully deceived in the event. Now, shall we marvel that Quakers offer us a new Creed, or Christianity, and scorn our old Bible, when their Spirit says, we must have a second Saviour? A Carnal one too, and who is within none but a single Woman: But he was only in her Imagination, so was a fit Brother to their other Christ within: Well, Is this all? No, we have more Christs among them, for Nailor owned himself to be jesus the Son of God.

If they alledge that she, or M. M. were melancho­ly, and that such a mind or fancy is a Balueum Dra­boli, I grant the whole, both of these and such o­ther Diviners: But will the Quakers own this Plea? [Page 29]Did they ever reject any of their Dreamers or Prophets as such? Did they deal so by this Conceiver, or our 3 Prophetesses or their great Prophetess in Somersetshire, who when one told her the late Duke of Monmouth was dead, said these very Words, Believe it not, I'le tell thee what I have from the Lord, he is as surely alive still as any of [...]. No, no, they reject them not, for these are the Tools to amuse the simple: Now, say I, what a case is these people in, without a rule to try the Spirits? Every Jugler, every brain-sick Demoniack may be their Prophet: Thus you lie at the Devil's mercy, who is not unwatchful to scratch where it itches, and improve his advantages. Verily one would al­most suspect that Father of Lies in Torment, did even recreate himself by playing upon the creduli­ty of such, who are said to sport themselves with their ten deceivings. 2 Pet. 13.17.19. &c. how nearly the Text concerns this People they would do well to con­sider, by comparing, v. 1, 2.

But Friends, Memories are not always perfect; therefore wee'l come nearer to the Year, 1686. when another (full of Spirit, no doubt) and upon a large Carnal Pulpit too, or a High-place in that City, uttered this Angelical Preachment. The Light is broke out in the Minds of Men, and Lo, this is our meet­ing Place; had he not better have said as another since that time, who having designed to Speak, the Spirit unluckily forgot to tell him what. Friends, I have a good Conception, but a very bad Utterance. Just so inspired was that Prophet of yours, who in the Year, 1694. walkt through many Towns and Coun­ties in this Kingdom, pronouncing Judgments here and there; as particularly at Bristol, That in few Months that City should become a Pool of Water, except it did repent; this was declared amongst a croud of you; publisht in the Streets, owned before the May­or, [Page 30]whose courtesie to the silly Wretch others o [...] you Congratulated, Caress'd the Man, Honour [...] his Prophecy above the Bible; coppied and hung [...] up in your Houses; yet I dare Challenge you which of you believed him, or fled out of Sodom. [...] But why did ye not, if he was inspired and se [...] from God? And if he was not, then what was h [...] and you that approved him? and encouraged him o [...] his way; See 2 Ep. John. v. 10.11.

Now least all or some of these be said to be ob­scure Persons, and that their personal Freaks do no [...] affect their Party, I desire it may be remembred from publick undeniable Prints this present Year that a very publick Person, a great Leader and Fa­vourite of this People, did openly own this pre­tence to immediate Divine inspiration, as a rule o [...] Practice; I mean, William Pen, in his Excommuni­cating G. K. for he acted by no Written Rule, no [...] pretended so, but that a Divine Power came upon him so forcible, that he knew not whether he we [...] Sitting, Standing or Kneeling; and that under th [...] power he utter'd that Sentence. How to distingu­ish that Frenzy from this of our Women, I know not: 'Twas all the warrant he had to pronounce G. K. a Heretick or Apostate: How like this Roari [...] is to that of a Popish Bull, let others judge, and what further proceedings against G. K. a Pensilvati­an Magistrate might think to justifie by a like im­pulse, I cannot tell; but would not much trust t [...] good Nature of a provoked Quaker; was it not will for Henry Winder that his Cause depended in an Eng­lish Court of Justice; else the Testimony of these Prophetesses might have touched his Life, namely before a Magistrate disposed to believe such Reve­lation: Suppose but that his Accusers or their Abet­ters had been upon the Bench, I demand what secu­rity [Page 31]he had to escape? and the like I say of G. K. [...]ow let them tell us, if they can, what censure of [...]e Friends W. P. has incur'd for his so daring As­sault of this Man; or wherein this differs from the and Pranks of Old Diotrephes, 3 Ep. John v. 9.10. [...] what we may judge to be an avowed Act of [...] party, if this was not. I know there little Po­liticies in their methods of acting most part, so as nothing may be imputable to the party, but lie at be door of this or that single Man, when conveni­ent to be disclaimed; and thus it comes to pass that [...] never know, or shall know, what is the Doctrin of Quakerism, they reserving a liberty (like the Fa­ther of Lies who is a very changling) to shrink from whatever they find unseasonable to own: Thus W. [...]. is taught by his Spirit, in the Years, 1693. and [...] to divulge several Scriptures that carry a face [...] submitting his Doctrines to Scripture Test, and [...]uting them thence, yea, wherein he would seem [...] say the very same concerning the Person of Christ [...] the Resurrection, for which he pronounces G. [...]. an Apostate; hoping perhaps that the world had [...]got how flatly his Sandy Foundation shaken opposed [...] Doctrines, or that no body would remember [...] he so lately said in a publick Meeting, That [...] see no need of Preaching the Faith of Christ with­ [...] which so many Nations receive, and it profits them [...], but the Faith of Christ within. Whether this be a­ [...]able to his novel pretence of valuing and teach­ing from Scripture, let honest Quakers judge, by comparing 1 Cor. 1.17, 18, 23, 24, 30.—Cap. 2.2.—Cap. 15.2, 3, 4, 11, 12. And what inspi­ration taught W. P. this guileful doubling, I wish himself to consider; for God is jealous, and the judge is at the Door.

3. Where will this Spirit lead you? Never to for­sake this World for Christ, whatever W. P. tall [...] of No Cross, No Grown. He means no outward Cross for that too is to be born within. Never were J [...] more busie and witty to grow carnally Rich; ins [...] much that I have heard you glory of that success [...] a sure Argument of God's Favour; much like som [...] of the Popish Marks that their Church is true; God [...] Spirit leads to God, and to mind Heavenly future things; to follow Christ and crucifie the Flesh, &c. which how you do at this Day, they that look with­in your Families, Kitchins and Wine-Cellars, or up­on your sumptuous Houses, curious Habits, and leathern Conveniencies, do plainly see. Now sin [...] your Spirit aims to get and enjoy these pleasures o [...] Sin and Flesh, I ask, Where will it lead you for that? Archbishop Whitebread, and such others, did surely mean to return from whence they came since then your Spirit, Fancy or Flatus is your su­pream Rule, its but sending among you some well skill'd in their Hocus Pocusses (and such you may read in the History of Jetzer) and then you by war­rant of your sort of Revelation, may as well Wor­ship the Virgin Mary, as your own St. George. Scrip­ture its true forbids both; but that's a Carnal [...] made of Paper and Ink, and the Spirit searcheth deep­er things: Since Friends of Old and of Late come with pretended Impirations, (and Rome too hath her Father's Missionary) what have you to try their Spirits? Can none come and say, The Lord sent them, whom he sent not? If some may, How shall we dis­cern who are sent? To judge by Scripture is to set up a Rule you have been long throwing down [...] Shall we then judge by the Events, the accomplish­ing, or not, of their Predictions? As we are taught Deut. 18.22. By this, many more Quakers besides [Page 33]our three Women, are Notorious, Presumptu­ous Impostors; yet if at some time a predict­ [...] Event should follow, that's no sure Rule, [...] 13.1, 2, &c. Namely, If that Prophet calls [...] People from the Law of Moses, as you do: I [...]sess till you return to the Law and the Testi­mony, I see not what security you have a­ [...]st the most Hellish Illusions, and Diaboli­ [...] Suggestions. That there is a Devil (the [...] Spirit, in your Cant) your selves oft ex­press; and Scripture tells you, he's a busie receiver, a false Prophet; that his Delusions are [...], 2 Thes. 2. Depths of Satan, Rev. 2.24. He [...] Simon Magus, and the People too, think [...] a great man, yea, the great Power of God, [...] 8.9, 10. and you cannot forget Mahomet's [...] so long as you see so many vast Na­ [...]s believe his Grand Lie. Now, why should [...] not, as soon as a Missionary Quaker? [...] your principle I cannot imagine how to [...]tinguish a New from an Old Alcoran. In [...] Assemblies you have, and still read Friends [...] therein, but not Scripture; and the Spi­ [...] in your Writers hath often charged you [...] do so, witness some of their Title Pages: [...] then speak out, whether you be not in [...] Peril as they in 1 Tim. 4.1, 2. Giving heed [...] seducing Spirits and Doctrines of Daemons, and [...] through the Hypocrisy of Lyars, — as I think, [...] text is better translated by some.

4. Does not this Story wonderfully confirm [...] Doctrine of sinless Perfection? The Wo­ [...]n enjoin their accused Brother to bow to [...] and Confess. Ah! the pride of this Qua­ [...] Spirit! it tells them they must Bow to no [...] but withall it tells them that others must [Page 34]Bow to them; so G. F. had the Humility to receive Adoration and Worship, and Nailon too, and justify'd it by a pretence that Christ was in him: So says the Papist, he is in a Crucisix. Further they must be acknowledg'd Pre­phetesses too; Prophetesses no doubt, for foretelling a Fact 9 Years after 'twas done; nay, in the Authority of their Spirit, they have Popishly enjoyn'd the accused to pray for the dead Child Moreover Self-contradictions and Inconsistencie [...] confirm their Infallibility; as well as the Pope's One says, the Childs Throat was cut, another 'twas strangled; once 'twas hid in the Peat-mow [...] and then 'twas Buried on Sparkhead-moor, ho­ping surely no search would be made there Dreadfully they usurp the Name of God and Jesus Christ in vain; yea more, to vouch their Hellish Lies and Impostures, how audaciously and profanely do their Letters imitate the phra [...] of Scripture? How prodigiously is the Fi [...] Commandment violated here! It prescribes Du­ty in all Relations, but here's unnatural contempt and dreadfullest breach of Duty to nearest Rela­tions: And what horrid violation of the 6th. [...] barbarous thirsting for their Brother and Sister life! Of the 8th too and 9th, in seeking to [...]o [...] them of their Reputation and Estate, and to draw them to accuse themselves, under colour of pro­viding for their Children: Besides that they s [...] unweariedly, impudently, bore false, devilishly false Testimony before God, Angels and Me [...] And is this the Perfection of Quakers? Yes, this is it indeed, just like that of the bloody self-righ­teous Pharisees, or that in Jer. 2.23. to 27 an [...] 35. Sure they would not have us think the [...] void of sin, if they allow that either they [...] we know what Sin is. But, mark Reader, that [...] [Page 35]hard to know, since we must have no Gospel, no [...], no Rule, but within our Selves; for a wiser [...]an tells us what we all may feel and witness in [...] selves, That every Man's way is right in his own [...], Prov. 21.2. —Cap. 12.15. Even the [...]ool is wise in his own Conceit, Prov. 26.12, 16. [...] 28.25, 26. And so were these great Per­fectionists too! John 7.48, 49. John 9. v. 22. — 34. These indeed in our Story, since their Impostures [...] opened, seem to deny perfection in this life, [...] will W. P. deny it without shuffling? Or [...]till G. F. deny it, who declared himself equal [...] God, and receiv'd Worship? Remember [...], Reader, as their Infallibility consists with [...], and Self-contradiction; so can their perfe­ction stand with most Abominable Wickedness. These are the People that confess no sins, nor will [...] a part in the justest national Humiliations; [...], they are devoutly keeping their perpetual [...] bath the while in their open shops, that no [...]estomer be lost. No wonder they so perverse­ly refus'd to join, both in the Year 1689. and in [...] 1696, in giving God thanks for delivering us [...] our Religion from French Tyranny: Against [...] I and Christ without, they'l bear a Testimony, [...] none against the late King James and Popery; [...] [...]ean, not they of Pen's Faction; for I ought [...] own that distinction, lest I wrong the Inno­cent.

5. Do we not reasonably demand an account of [...] Doctrine concerning Jesus Christ, and the [...]oly Spirit, on whom all this stuff is fathered, as said by his Inspiration, or that he had discover­ [...] all this to you? If there is no Christ but with­ [...] you, and that's it you mean, all this may be [...]; for all this lewd stuff certainly came from [Page 36]within, as Mat. 15.18, 19. Eph. 2.2. Cap. 4.18. If Friends will be so pleas'd, I can tell them of [...] Stanch Quaker at this day so just and true, that being taken in the fact of Cursing and Swearing freely owned, 'tis not I, but the Devil in me: So may the Devil dwell and be Friends with the Quakers Christ within. But if that Darkness a [...] Corruption within (whatever you call it) is your Christ, it's the Devil's Christ, and God's Christ warns you against it, in Mat. 6.23. And wh [...] he speaks, the Spirit speaks unto the Churches Rev. 2. But who or what is your Spirit? It not seems to confess Christ, and you read that occa­sionally the Devil would do so, Mat. 8.29. [...] 4.34. If by the Spirit you mean that Divine Eternal Person, who spake in and by the Prophe [...] and Apostles, 2 Pet. 1.19, 20. and speaks still [...] the written Word, 2 Tim. 3.16. we know, th [...] is not of him: But if your Spirit is your preg [...] imagination, or a wild Passion, then it's granted th [...] were acted by it. But then we that complain of Socinians and others, who make the Holy Gh [...] a Divine Power, Quality or Creature, must mu [...] more complain of you. Tell us therefore plain [...] what ye mean by Jesus Christ, what ye think of his. For ye have not told Dr. Lancaster to satisfaction. Do you mean the Light or any thing within you? [...] ye are wont when ye tell us, Christ is crucify'd [...] in, risen and exalted within; yes, rather crucif [...] than exalted, but how both I cannot devise. How­ever take that notion with all its Non-sence, [...] can this Light, or whatever else in you, be [...] Christ, i.e. be a Saviour, and be Anointed? for so [...] of you know that so these names mean? How [...] that Light in you reveal Secrets, send Messenger (as you call your selves, Witnesses and Embassa [...] from the Lord Jesus Christ?) Why have not all [...] [Page 37]Quakers such Revelations, or Discoveries, since they are all furnisht (and we too) with the light within? Is this Christ of yours a Person, a glorious Lord, exalted at the right hand of God the Father, and such as the Scriptures re­present true Christ to be? Then down go the Sen­timents most of you have so long espoused about Christ: Yea are Apostates from Primitive Qua­kerism, and from Father Fox. That Jesus descri­ [...]ed in Scripture was to seal up Vision and Pro­phecy, Dan. 9.24. or to give such perfect disco­very of God's Counsel and Will to the World, that the Spirit's extraordinary Gifts of Illumina­tion should be no more necessary, nor continu­al. But the Quakers by pretending to con­stant prophetical Revelation from him, deny his Work aforesaid; and denying that he hath [...]one his Work, deny that He is come, or worse; [...]ay, that He ever was to come, or needs to come. A [...]gular Priviledge they have in having their Christ within, whom there's no danger of forsa­ [...]ing in any case; 'tis but to consult their [...]ight, 'twill give a Response like that, Cum fueris [...], Romano vivito more. Then enter Father Mo­ [...]s, and all is done: They may in a new sense [...] as their inward Christ will not fail to tell them) [...] all things to all men, as already in habits and [...]tures; so may be Papists or Turks upon occa­sion.

6. If you'll grant these Women were deceived, [...]en who deceiv'd them? Was it not that old Master of Art, so Officious among the Sons [...] God, Job 1. The same that beguiled the Corinthians from pure Christian Simplicity, [...] [...]inth. 11. If they did err, God and his Spirit [...] Truth so far left them. And then I think [Page 38]it worth your inquiry, what might be the oc­casions or causes of that penal permission, this no more of you be so enchanted. One most fatally intoxicating notion I take to be, that of the saving Grace of God in all men; what could men devise more proud and provoking, to bring all God's remedial provisions into con­tempt? I can see nothing it saves, unless they mean that it saves them all care and pains i [...] working out their Salvation. For no people sleep so secure as they, without all fear or Spiritual conflict.

7. Is it not time to review all the Doctrine and Practices which upon this one Antiscrip­tural conceit you entertain? If you are o [...] of the way, never were men so fearfully out no guide so slippery as that ye have chosen; [...] very Proteus, as all men see, only will not change white. Ye can confess or deny Christ come in the Flesh, ye can own or disown his satisfaction and righteousness; value or deride and decry his benefits, Grace and Word pro re nat [...]. The Antichrists in St. John were honest men to you, and yet of them he said, they had not G [...] because they did not abide in the Doctrine of Christ I do not equal all Quakers in this charge, but to all I say, Read, and consider your ways, Pro [...] [...]4.16. A wise man feareth and departeth from evil, but the Fool rageth and is confident: See also v. 6, 12, 14, 15, 17, 22, 25, 27, 33.

Secondly; if perchance ye will not read, not hear, others will: wherefore them I invite to ob­serve, from this our Narrative,

1. That Primitive Quakers were very trouble­some to Magistrates and Ministers with their pre­tended Messages from the Lord. They would come and openly disturb Mr. Gilpin (and hun­dreds more) in the Church, and H. W. in his house, and the Justices in theirs. Such was the temper and tendency of the Quakers Spirit, they could not stay at home in their callings, 1 Thess. 3.6. to 15. They were immediately car­ried against Magistracy and Ministry, the two so great Ordinances of God for governing and blessing the World; but what's the matter that [...]e so seldom hear of their Messages now adays to Magistrates and Ministers? Why none to Long William and his Parliament, as to Oliver and his? They can tell a pretty reason or two [...] [...]at we may ask, is their Spirit ceased, or are they weary (O utinam!) with seeing their Pro­phecies so oft baffled and disappointed? had they not need assure the Magistrate, that now their Mind is changed? Else how unsecure is the State and Church? Whom may they not accuse at this [...]ate? And instigate others (for herein the Pope [...]d they agree) to execute their Anathema's? Mark the Peaceable mind, and Innocence of [...]sighting, unswearing Quakers: Others they'll [...]pley to swear, at every Custom-house, that is, [...] damn'd to do their drudgery. And G. K's case done sufficiently shews the World their benig­nity to any they dislike. See 1 Joh. 3.10, 12, 15. [...] 27.14. Wrath is cruel, and Anger is out­ [...]gious, and who can stand before Envy?

2. That Scripture and Quakerism are mutu­al enemies; H. W. must forsake that, if he'l turn Quaker, Turk, or Papist; none of their Messa­ges to him are from that. Indeed they boldly [Page 40]Ape its Language, as the Devil uses to do in his Oracles. But if Scripture is such Serpent's meat, such a Lying Book, or is not (as it affirms it self to be) the very Word of God, why doth the pretended Spirit of God in Quakers aim to speak so like it? use its Phrases, and way of delivering its reports? Doth the Holy Spirit or does Jesus Christ love to resemble and imitate false seducing Authors? as the Pen-men of the Bible are, if they be not such as they own themselves to be: But if indeed they were sent and taught of God, then is Quakerism con­trary to the Doctrine that is of God. I know what respect they give it, since a good Act of Parliament taught them what to say for peace but how else do they yet honour it? And [...] they do, what sort of Christians can they be? The Jews were to retain and observe Moses Law, Mal. 4.4. and we Christ's, Matth. 28.2 [...] and Christians I find those called, who receive Christ's and his Apostles Doctrine about the Person and Office of Christ who died for Sin­ners: Acts. 11.26. with Eph. 2.21. But they do not: Nay, you hear them count those go [...] Christians that heard not this Doctrine; but who Believers can such be? Ro. 10.14. Do they [...] hereby confess another Christ? Ro. 16.20, [...] Well, though they be Enemies to Scripture, [...] them the Scriptures of both Testaments [...] fulfilled, that such deceivers will come, Matthew 24. and that there is a Spirit of Error as well [...] of Truth; many small Antichrists as one Gra [...] one; so that we need not call in question o [...] Scripture-Christianity for them; nay, they affo [...] us an argument that it is the very Word [...] Words of God.

3. Observe the pride and danger of casting off Scripture-Rule. Honest Men come to the clear­est Light to be tried and undeceived; these run from it, that none may have whereby to convince them, admitting no appeal but to their own Light, i. e. the Defendant will be his own Judge: This holds them fast in the Devil's snare. And how credulous can they be of any Reports! I know whom they surmised to be the Author of a Book that offended them, and Answered it is his, with many lying, scurrilous Reflections, when he knew no more of its Author than they: But that's a small thing. Mark how this Wo­man's Revelation began, even at her FEET, to make sure of entire possession; no wonder they count all others carnal, since Quakers are all over [...] Spiritual, that they can receive spiritual Im­pressions and Divine Revelations, even in their [...]eels; but hear the consequence, Ezek. 13.3, 5. 6, 8, 9. and v. 17. to 23. I have sometime heard of Monkish Dispossessions, and egresse of Demons à posteriori, but never of any illapse of the holy Spi­rit like this. Risum teneatis?

4. How busy the Devil hath been, is, and will be against the Word and Spirit of Christ, and thereby against his Church and Honour; and ah! how strong his delusions when once ad­mitted? Hardly were any of these seduced Wretches wrought to the least measure of Re­pentance, and shame, after most woful frustrati­ons of their Dreams, and publick detection of their Lies. This is the fruit of casting off Scripture, Ministry and Ordinances as outward, carnal things; so easy it is to retain a pretence of Re­ligion quite separate from its life, truth and power. Here we have great swelling names of [Page 42] Spirit and Revelation, and of Jesus Christ, but coupled with a fierce bloody Zeal as any in Popery Might not such Revelation be as good a War­rant to Poison or Stab H. W. as to put the Ma­gistrate upon hanging him on such proof? Reader, these are no new things in the World Marvell not if the Devil acts now as he did of old. But what a sensless shamm is Quaker pretence to Universal Charity? Sometimes they tell us that even Socrates is safe in obeying his Light, as T. S. of late; why then do they not let all alone to be taught by their own Light? But their treatment of H. W. when re­claim'd, shews that they can endure none but themselves. And here observe their singular Charity to Protestants, whom they set on even grounds with Papists, Jews, Turks and Pagans just so and no more. A goodly price is this put on Reformed Religion! and the glorious ever­lasting Gospel! since Pagans be and do as well without it. But says the Spirit of Truth so is Psa. 147.19, 20. John 14.6. Eph. 4.18. and are not we highly obliged by this their Candor? Oh the front of these Men! Truly did we use Scripture no more in our houses and Assemblies than most Quakers do in theirs, as well we might be Pagans.

5. Mark by what means H. W. once a Quaker, escapes out of their Net. In him you first see there may be fearful long Backslidings of good people, Ps. 37.23, 24, to 34. whom yet effectual Grace will recover, as Peter. Satan though he winnow them, shall lose his prey. Were it possible, he would deceive the very Elect, Mat. 24.24. But Christ hath prayed that their Faith do not utterly, finally fail: Wise and merciful [Page 43]provision hath he made in the new Covenant for such Cases, Jer. 3. Ezek. 36. Hos. 14.4, 5. But see here by what Methods and Arguings he was set right, and reduced to Truth; 'twas [...] just use of his Reason, and consideration gui­ded by Scripture, that represented Quakerism to him groundless, absurd and Impious; then durst [...]e no longer abide in it: May others give like Glory to free, rich and powerful Grace, Ezek. 16. [...].63. 2 Cor. 6.16. coming out from among Un­believers.

6. How wise and faithful is the Lord in exer­ [...]ing his Children by Persecutions, Afflictions, Reproaches, &c. according to Psal. 119.67, 71, [...] for much endeavour had been used to con­ [...]ince H. W. and his Wife, of that Error; but [...]ather than let them sin unto death, God per­ [...]its their own nearest Relations to be their [...]urpest scourge; this opened their eyes to let them see the strong Delusions of the Quaking spirit, and now they humble themselves great­ [...]; write an Acknowledgment of their Errour; [...]eg Prayer of the Church, &c. and after a while, [...]ere received. Reader, see Psal. 94.12, 13. Psal. 119.78, 79, 80. Heb. 12.10, 11. wherein the Lord fully declares his fatherly purposes in cor­recting his Children, especially in case they go [...]ay. But it's dreadful when Corrections make [...]o impression, Jer. 5.3. Thus it hath been with the [...]ost of H. W's persecutors to this day; con­ [...]ning which frame of Spirit I wish others [...]y take warning from Jer. 6.10, 15, 16, 17, 19 — cap. 8.5, 6, 12.

7. Think what need of thy Compassions and Prayer for these so deluded, that by the Gospel they may be better enlightned, Acts 26.18. Re [...]. 3.18. The Lord is patient, (Oh how patient! towards them, suffering his Name to be thu [...] blasphemed. The day is not yet come (but it i [...] coming, Jude 14, 15.) wherein he will judge th [...] World by the Lord Jesus Chri [...], whom he h [...] ordained Judge of the Quick and Dead. Whil [...] he thus forbears, it's meet we should act in a li [...] Spirit towards sinners. 2 Cor. 5.10, 11. Cap. 6. [...] 2 Tim. 2.24, 25. even towards these; they are no [...] alike deplorable. God once convinced many ob­stinate Jews, and will more; so he recover'd ma­ny from the depths of Popery: Nor are all Qua­kers equal in sin. Some ground of charitable hope remains, that if they durst examine, the Veil might be rent from their blinded minds. I know their dan­ger from 2 Cor. 4.3, 4. 2 Tim. 3.13. but H. W. and others, after many Years delusion were recovered Who then dares say that no more shall, after a longer stay in their Tents? They must be re­buked sharply; yet, Christian Reader, put on Bowels of large Compassions: Charity for thee they have none, till thou turn Quaker; no, not common Pocket-charity, most of them confine that to their own; thou therefore put on the more Charity to them, as Christ Jesus to the ob­stinate, murdering Jews. It's hard to say what thou canst do to convince or gain any of them If they will not hear thee, nor the Church, they must be left to God. But Noah, that perfect Man, and preacher of Righteousness, condemned the World. That thou mayst profit them, or at least Antidote thy self, I beseech thee,

1. To practise in the name of Christ that Mor­tification of Lusts and Passions they pretend to; particularly that of Self conceit, Revenge, and [...]y Zeal: These thou seest our Perfectionists had not put off. St. John in his day, to secure against worldly Anti-Christs then appearing, advised to [...]rucify worldly Affections, 1 Joh. 2.15. cap. 4.5, 6. so say I: Love of Gain hath made many Quakers; for the Devil, and the worst of Men will be kind to their own.

2. Adorn Christian Doctrine (which they pro­ [...]ess not) in a holy, shining life: Be better than [...]hey, 1 Pet. 2.9. Do they make shew of any Ver­ [...]e, or laudable practice? It's a vile shame if Christ's Disciples out-do them not, whose Light, Principles and assisting Grace so far exceed theirs. They once made a specious shew of Humility, Self-Denial, Contempt of the World, plain, up­right Dealing, frugality and gravity in Apparel: The World sees it's not so now; their Rule can stretch and bend, but thine is not so slippery and novable: Let them see, that better Principles [...]ake better Men; especially beware of casting [...]y Offence before them to confirm them in their way.

3. Keep Humble and low in thine own eyes; There is no cause that sinful man should lean to his own wisdom, strength, or Righteousness. God resisteth the proud that will not bow to, and depend on his Guidance and Grace; but his Favour he shews to the Humble, such he guides, leaving others to be misguided by their own lusts. Psal. 81.11, 12.

4. Magnify Jesus Christ the incarnate Son o [...] God, the great Light, and Saviour of the World [...] as necessary to thee in all thy Affairs with God and with thy Spiritual Enemies, 1 Cor. 1.31 Col. 2.3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. He is precious to such as know him, or themselves, Phil. 3.7, 8. The Faithful cleave to, and follow him in a [...] his Ways and Ordinances; by Faith in him they live and are preserved. Ah! Reader, beware o [...] them that vilify him, and his Wisdom; Beware of the Quaker's Spirit and Insinuations. It has oft appeared that such as have joined themselves to them, are prepared for any Delusions the Devil can suggest; their case is mournful, but they scorn our pity. It's dismal to think how sel­dom any of them are reclaimed, and how Pagan like their young Generation is educated; bu [...] that this should be at this day in a Reformed, Evangelized Nation is saddest of all.

5. Grieve not the Holy Spirit of Truth. A [...] where wilt thou run when he ceases to lead thee Dare not to disobey that Light he conveys by and from the Oracles of God. Receive Heavenly Doctrine, even the whole counsel of God in the Love of it, lest thou be delivered to believe lies, and hardened through the deceitfulness of Sin Of all people, proud, empty Professor, whose ears are itching, are [...]ikest to be the Seducer's Prey [...] for this I dare appear to all that mind their lase Proselytes. When many deceivers were abroad, St. John thought it needful more fully to instruct and confirm his Disciples in present Fundamental Truth, which those and ours agree to subvert. See 1. Joh. 2.18. &c. St. Paul also went about confirming the Disciples souls, Acts 14.21, 22, 23. [Page 47] [...]. in the Doctrine they had received, Eph. 2.20, [...]. hold that fast, 2 Thes. 2 14, 15. Jude 3.— 17, 18, 19, 20. Rev. 2.24, 25. Surely these cautionary ad­ [...]onition; are of use still, and ought to be alike [...]cceptable to thee.

Finally, Dread the Methods whereby others are inveigled, i. e. a pretence of all inward Spiri­ [...] [...]ulity in Religion. A form of Godliness without life and Spirit God abhorrs; but while we are in [...]e Body, we must employ Souls and bodies [...] his worship, we must have visible, sensible ordinances; such the Wisdom of God hath ap­p [...]inted us: But these waxing secure and wanton [...] formal profession, first cast off all ordinances, [...] outward duties, all prayer, only with this re­ [...]erve, when their own Spirits would give 'em [...] jogg, i. e. when their flesh had nothing [...]o object. Thou therefore when tempted to quit [...]he beaten path of Scripture-worship, be sure to [...]ee good and clear divine Warrant for any new [...]ny commended to thee. So thou hadst need, [...]ho must render to God an account why thou dost turn aside from the great Shepherd's sents. Wise Solomon, in Proverbs 2.20. coun­ [...]ls thee to walk in the way of good men, and [...]eep the paths of the Righteous: So Heb. 6. [...]. do you so, praying all along to be taught of God, and led by his Spirit into all Truth [...] means of his Word. Ps. 119.18. Open thou [...]ine eyes, that I may see wondrous things out [...]f thy Law. v. 19. I am a stranger in the Earth, [...]ide not thy Commandments from me. v. 24. Thy Testimonies also are my delight, and my Counsellors.