Born: 4 May, 1742 at Wyke
Died: 16 July, 1771 at Wyke

Learn more about the life of Beterous Atkinson

Our S^rBeterous Atkinson was born
May the 4^th 1742 at Wike in Birstal Parish. Tho’
she was still baptised in the Church of England, yet as
her Parents belong’d to the Brⁿ from the time of the
first awakening in this Country, she from her
Childhood was in the Care of the Sisters. But
as nothing very particular of the Work of our
Lord was observed in her Heart, she in her 21^st Year
took some little offence, which ended in a Confusion
of Mind, and of Consequence a Coldness and Shyness
towards those, who sought the Prosperity of her Soul
took place which continued till she was married on
Sept. 21. 1766. The uneasiness of Heart which she was
never quite free from, become now serious, and this
was the Period of her Life, in which she was
actually awakened, and saw and felt that she had
never known our dear Sav^r, as a Sinner. She
now sought again for Fellowship with the Congⁿ
and in Dec. 1769 she was readmitted into the Society,
and after repeated Supplications she was recieved
into the Congⁿ April 15^th. 1770. She was now at times
very chearful and increased in the Knowledge of
herself. Last winter she fell into a lingering state
of Health, and tho’ no Pains were spared towards
her Recovery, yet it was all in Vain, and a regular

consumptive Disorder took Place. As she had
entertain’d great Hopes of overcoming this Sickness,
she was so much the more disappointed when she
was asured of the Contrary, and a certain Fear
of Death siezed her, which made her at first very
heavy; But she pray’d our dear Sav^r so long, till
he was graciouslypleased to remove this from
her. From thence ensued a settled Hearts Desire
and longing to be with him the sooner the better,
and she grew so remarkably in the inner Con, that
it was a Pleasure to behold it. She had a great
desire to enjoy the h. Sacrament ^while here, which she
also obtained June 24^th and the Days following
she was inexpressibly Happyin her Heart, and
thus she kept growing in our LordGrace and
longing after his coming till the 15^th of July
when a few Moments before her Soul took
flight she still said: Sweet Jesus! Her dying
life lasted 29 years and 2 months.

Born: 9 August, 1727 at Berthelsdorf
Died: 20 February, 1803 at Fulneck

Learn more about the life of Anna Rosina Anderson

Our dear happily departed Sister
Anna Rosina Anderson, has left
the following account of herself:
I was born the 9^th of Aug 1727 at
Berthelsdorf. My Parents belonging to
the Congⁿ endeavour’d to bring me up
in the same connection with the Congⁿ
& sent me from my earliest years every
Sunday to Herrnhut to the Childrens
meeting, which the late Count Zinzendorf
kept. He asked me many questions, and
tho’ I did not always understand him,
yet it made an impression on my heart
and I felt a desire to be happy. When
I was in my 7^th year my Father de-
parted happily to our Savior, after
which the late Count took care of my
Mother & her children; she came to
live in the widows house at Herrnhut

and her children in the Orphan house,
but I for my part had no inclination
for it, but chose to stay with my Grand
father in Berthelsdorf. After a few years
my Uncle in Lobenstein desired me to
come and live with him, which I
was very glad of. I was there above a
year, but did not find it so agreeable
as I thought, and I prayed may times
with tears to the Lord, to help me away
again, which he graciously did. For it
happened at this time that the late
Count came to Ebbersdorf and my Uncle
had an oppertunity to see him; and
told him that I was very unhap
py here; on hearing this he took me
under his care, & sent me to Marienborn
to the Orphan house; I prayed to the
Lord to preserve me here & make me
happy, & that I never might come to

any other place except among the Brethren,
because I was sometimes enticed by my
Uncle to go back with him to his home.
At that time during a severe sickness
which I got, I learned to pray earnestly
for my happiness. I found many friends
here who wish’d me well and to see me pros
per for our Savior; particularly one Sister
will always be remember’d by me, who,
when I had recovered, took me with
her into the garden, and kneeling down
with me, put up a fervent prayer in
my behalf to our Savior, which I shall
never forget. But it was not sufficient to
make me happy; because I must feel
my Saviorscomfort & forgivenessfor my
own heart, & this happened in a very
particular manner. Being once quite
alone in a place I fell down at his feet
& implored his mercy & forgiveness for all
my sins thro’ his precious blood. At
that time I felt something, which I
cannot express, his comfort to my troub
led soul and his mercy shown to me,

melted my heart in thousand tears. In 1740
I was after the then usual manner ^received into the
Childrens Congⁿ which proved a great bles
sing to me, I devoted my heart to our Savior
to live to him & serve him; however after
wards, I must own, I had many things to
experience by which I learnt better to know
myself but our Savior was faithful and
helped me thro’, I always felt freedom to
speak my mind openhartedly to my Labouress
which was a great help to me. In the year
1741I was received into the great girls Choir
and in the same year I enjoyed the holy
Comⁿ for the first time, which was
an unspeakable blessingto my heart. At
that time there was a company of great
girls which the late Count took par-
ticular care of, he kept us Choir meetings
and instructed us how to become useful
in our Saviors service. I was appoin-
ted to keep the Childrens & great girls
bands, and enjoyedmany blessings from
our Savior, when we spoke together of
his great love & mercy. Soon after
I had the office of an assistant among

the Children conferred upon me and
moved in the same year with this Oec
onomy to Herrnhag. All these appoint
ments taught me to come into closer
connection with our Savior and showed
me that I could do nothing of myself.
His mercy and love shown to me bowed
me in the dust before him. I had the
confidence to cleave to him as a poor
sinner, & believed he would help me
thro’. 1743I was accepted an Acoluth
with a large company, which encou
rag’d me anew to live to him and
serve him as a poor Child that has
nothing to plead but his mercy from
day to day. 1744I was receiv’d
into the S. S^rs Choir and 1747
blessed for a Deaconess. 1748 I received
a Call to be S. S^rs Labores at Beth
lehem in America. In LondonFeb^r.
the 10^thI was bless for my office &
set out in June. Sept the 20^th I
arrived in Bethlehem after a trouble
some voyage. I cannot but take no-
tice, that this year the 13^th of Nov.
was celebrated the first time in

America, which brought the first impres-
sion of that in Herrnhaag1741 very
fresh to my mind, but I was sorry,
I could not enjoy it in such a moment
manner as I wish’d to do. I had to
struggle, particularly in the beginning
with many difficulties, being young
and unexperienced, and had no body
to whom I could open my heart and
consult with, so as I wish’d; which
made it sometimes very heavy to me.
But my dear Savior helped me thro’
whenever I turn’d to him in my dis-
tress. I visited frequently in the most
of the country Cong^ns which lay very
distant from each other. In the year
1755 a a war broke out between the
French & English, and as the Indi-
ans generally took share and joined
one of the other party, we had very
difficult times at Bethlehem and
Nazareth. First the settlement of
the Brethren at the Mahony about

27 miles from Bethlehem was destroyed
by the Indians, where 11 B^rn & S^rs lost
their lives, after which many mur-
ders were committed much nearer, till
at last within 6 miles of Bethle-
hem. We knew that we were closely
watched by the Indians, who would
gladly have destroyed the Place, which
at that time was the only one capable
of making any resistance to their
Incursion. The reports of their cru-
elties at other places kept us in con
tinual allarm and apprehension,
particularly as Indians were some
times observed to lurk about and
in the place at nights.

However the strict watch kept by
the B^rn in many parts & particu-
larly about our house, but above all
the protection of our good Lord, al-
ways frustrated their designs.
During all these heavy times, our dear Lord
was our only comfort and his peace

was very sensibly felt amongst us. In the
year 1762B^r Nathanael Seidel arrived
here from Europe, who had lately been
married to S^r Anne Joh. Piesch an old
acquaintance of mine; from whose conver
sation and support I received much com
fort. In the year 1764 I received a call
to return to Europe, S^r Susanna de
Gersdorf arrived early in that year to
supply my place, and I left Bethle
hem in company with B^r & S^r Bochler
and some other B^rn & S^rs in the begin
ning of May. We had a very quick passage, arrived in Londonthe 24^th
of June, & at Marienborn where the
Synod was assembled on the 4^th of
July. After the Synod was closed I
went to Herrnhut and in the year 1765
received a Call to serve the S. S^rs Choirs
in England. I first went to Fulneck,
where I staid about a year, & then got
a Call to Bedford, where I served the
single S^rs untill the year 1772 when I return’d again to Fulneck. To go
any farther in relating my course I
don’t think needful. Our Saviorspas-
sion and death and that he has redee-
med me poor Sinner with his own pre-
cious blood, is to me above everything
in time and in eternity. He has helped
me thro’ this vale of tears and given
me grace to place my confidence in
him in which I never have been put
to shame. When I have the favour
to see him face to face I shall kiss
his feet with Sinner-tears for all
his mercy bestowed upon me.

Thus far has this faithful hand-
maid of Jesus left us an account of
herself and of that what the Lord
has done for her Soul. There would
be much to say of all the proofs of
grace; wherewith he has crowned her
endeavours and blessed her services to so
many souls, in advising, comforting
and shewing them the way to true hap

piness; but we shall content ourselves with
rendering unto him, who is the giver of all
good gifts, our humble thanks and prai-
ses for all the mercys bestowed upon her,
during her pilgrimage here below. Her
character and the blessing which attented
her Labour is known and acknowledged
with thankfulness and we heartilywish
and pray that we may follow her foot-
steps. In the year 1772 when she the
second time arrived in Fulneck, the
S. S^rs Choir and Oeconomies in Yorkshire
were in a very hopeful state and she
was recieved by them with much love
and affection. In this vineyard of the
Lord she laboured with the utmost
alacrity both of body & mind, deeming
it her highest priviledge to win Souls for
Christ. The weakest of the flock were
always objects of her peculiar care and
concern, and she spared no pains what-
ever in tending and bearing them in love;
and in such instances when all means

proved ineffectual, it was evident to all around
her, how she always bemoaned their loss.
On the other hand our Savior gave her the
satisfaction to see many faithful hand
maids, whom she had trained up for the
Lord, enter into the different services of his
house, which she always looked upon as
the greatest favour conferred on herself. As
the Choir here in Fulneck considerably in
creased, it was in the year 1780 taken into
consideration to build a S. S^rs house in Wyke,
and the proposal having been approved of,
our late Sister had the pleasure to assist
in laying the foundation stone, which
was a blessedsolemnity. When it was fi
nished and inhabited by Sisters from
Fulneck she used to visit them frequent
ly with great faithfulnes, and took
particular share in their weal & woe;
as also in the wellfare of the Sisters
Oeconomies at Gummersall, Mirfield
and Littlemore; when several years
ago the latter was given up, it was a
great concern to her mind.

Of late years she grew weak and could
not be so active in her office as she
wished, nevertheless her mind was continu
ally employed for the wellfare of her
Choir. Great as her delight had been in the
beginning, to see her Choir in such an in-
creasing and florishing way, so great
was her concern of late years to see it
gradually declining in number and but
few new ones coming in. So much the
more she wished and prayed that the
few remaining might truly value their
lot of grace and enjoy the blessings &
privileges, which were so precious to
herself. For as to her own person she
regretted exceedingly, that in her latter
days old age & weakness prevented
her attending every opportunity for
edification & encouragement as much
as she wished to do. May the 1st
1802 she was seized with a paralytic
stroke, but recovered so far again that she
on the 4th of May could attend the meetings

house. During this winter, her
weakness increased, & she was much confined
room. Febr. 15^th 1803, she had
her stroke, which quite took away
use of her right side, & the next day
she had strong convulsions so that we
expected her dissolution. She had
often expressed a wish for B. Benade to
pray with her at her departure which
was now done, and after the prayer
the blessing of the Lord was pronoun
ced over her. The feeling of the peace
of God on this occasion will leave a
deep impression on the minds of all
them who were present. After the
first paroxysm she fell asleep and
slumbered for the the most part; but when
she between times awoke she seemed
to be sensible, tho’ her speech was so
far gone, that she could only say yes
or no to the questions asked. The 18^th
some Sisters assembled in her room to
sing some verses expressing our fore
taste of that happy lot to be at home

with the Lord; she seemed quite de-
lighted with it and kept awake the
whole time. The 19^th in the afternoon
she appeared more recollected than before
and could speak several words, and when
the girls came to see her, she gave them all
the hand & said: The Lord bless you!
Afterwards she slumber’d again till
about evening, had a very restless night,
and the 20^th in the morning about 7
a’ clock her redeemed and thro’ the blood
of Jesus sanctified soul went gently
and happy over into the arms of her
b beloved bridegroom, during the singing
of that verse: When in the arms of
Jesus, thy lips shall pallid grow.

Her age was 75 years 6 months.

Born: 18 June, 1743 at Scholes, Yorkshire
Died: 30 June, 1768 at the Sisters’ House at Littlemoor

Learn more about the life of Martha Adkinson

The Single SisterMartha Atkeson who depart’d
this Life. Thro’ the means of an apoplectic
Fitt has Left nothing in writing neither
communicated herself further Than what
can begather by the relation of her band
& Class Sisters, She was bornScols? in the
Parish of BirstolJune 18 1743, & has been in
connection with the B^rns Church from her child-
hood as Her parents belong’d threto, & it was
perceptible that she had drawing of Grace
in Her Heart when she belong’d the Gr Girls
choir Therefore had the previledges of
all the opportunities belonging to that choir
yet she drew no particular connection nor
discovered any real concern for the prosperity
of Her Heart till about the year 60, having
been at Her Class in which she spoke of some
particular Happiness she injoy & Her Course
was very ???? & ???? thro’ her ??
at that time thro’ Her years was very ??? &
of Life & also situation of abode made it that so
^{un Certain} had not the approbation she Expected, therefore
she was greatly afronted, & made a resolution never
to come more amongest the B^rns people, but
turn into the world & make the best she could to
her advantage, but this lasted not long for such
Strong conviction seized her that utter ruin would infect?
& mislead of puting her worldly resolution into practice
she was oblig’d thro’ the Necessity of her own Heart
to declare into her parent, that she must go to his

in the Choirhouse or she cou’d have no rest, they was
surpris’d to hear such a declaration & told her prehaps
the Choirhouse Sisters wou’d not have her, but she took
the resolution to speak with her Aunt Rose ^Mortimer about it
who according to her desire communicated her intentions
to the Labourars, & in a little time she got her desire
Grantd & Novb^r 1761 she ^{removed into}came to live in the Choirhouse
& was received into the Congregation the following spring
1762 she did not seam to give any real Testimonie of
a Chereful course amongst us till the beginning of
the reading of the 12 word of our d^rSav^r relative to
the general Synod, these brought her to a strict
Examination of herself seeing many of Her
choir companions go to the  ^Hly Commuion from time to time
& she still left behind, it was a real Tryal to her
& when the accounts belonging the general Synod
was Communicated our deceased Sister came under
a strict Examination in her own Heart & by the
occasion of the feeling which then persisted in the Cong
she thought she also stood in need of our d^rSav^rsGracious
Absolution, this conviction seized Her more & more & obliged
her to retire into the wood, by a real drawing in Her
heart that our Sav^r would absolve Her there for she
had never fell before such need of Grace & pardon
what she injoy’d here with Her Souls Lover was a
comfortable & unabiding blessingto Her Heart,
Jan 30 1767 she became a participant of the holy sacramt
& on nov^r following, she was appointed by our Lords
directions to serve as Cook in the Oeconomie at little mor
& Her leaving the Choirhouse became a great
Tryal to Her ^{not understanding House business} Till within some month before
Her depature, haveing thro Grace got to see that
the whole perplexity was Her own Makeing

^{& came}more chearfull, Clear and conforted
and Like a child sung verses
when She was about Her
Buissness to Every once Etivication
on the 28 she had Her Birthday, and came
in the Choir House to Celebarate it with
the S^rs, was Extraordinary chearfull
and happy for Her Election of Grace
Exprest Herself very Sinnerlike and
thankfull, Senceible of Her great unworthiness
and that she had the favour to Cleave
poor & needy to our Saviour — and
felt Herself with Soul & body devoted
to Him who hath so much forgiven Her
on the 30^th she Breckfasted with
Her S^rs was quite well & Extraordinary
chearfull with them, After which she
went about Her usual Buissness
had scare time to call one of the S^rs
befor she was taken in an fit and soon
After had the favour to kiss those
dear hands & feet who have absolv’d
her Here, with the Blessing of Her
choir – the Sutten unexpected departure
Left the most affectingTears impression
of those present – and in the Choir she
was the first.

M. Adkeson
in Nob^r Last she was by our Lords
direction apointed to move with to Little
more to serve as Cook in that occonome
she which was ^{for some time} a great Trial to Her particularly as she was not used to House Buissness to Leave
the choir House, within this few months, she
Came more Clearin Her Heart that that
it had proved a real Blessing to her
Heart and ^happy Scool in which she had
Learnd to know Herself, and the patience
our Dearest Saviour has shown
which she with a melted & thankfull
Heart Told Her Laboruss – she was naturally
of a Closs dispostion which made her
but thro the Grace of our Saviour she
be came openhearted and had a Tender
Conexion with Her wounded friend
this made Her much belov’d among
the S^rs, it was perciv’d that she
particularly was had hold of by
within this few months

which she in a Sinnerlike band confessed with a melted
& a ThankfulHeart told Her Laboures, that now it
was all turn’d to Grace & blessing & she wou’d not
a been with but remain by Her Lot of Grace for all she ^world
she naturaly was of a close dissposition, but thro’ the
connection which our d^rSav^r had brought her into with
himself she became more open Hearted, which made her
much beloved amongest her sisters,

within these few months past the became so chereful
& delight herself a midst all Her business to Sing to her
her Loved one &

on the 28 she had Her birthday & came to celebrate it
in the Choirhouse & was childishly Thankful for her
election of Grace of that she could as a poor & needy
one cleave to our dearest Sav^r, to whom she would
devote Soul & body Eternaly to be his for he had forgiven
Her much;

on the 30 she breakfastd with her Sisters was
Extrordnary chereful & well, & occupied herself
inmeadately in her usual Bussness, keeping &
doing what was necessary to be done, she had
scarce Time to call one of the S^rs to tell them she
was not well, but was direcly in a fitt & speachless
& tho all possable means was used for her relieve
with out any Effect for she soon had the favour
to kiss those hands & feet which had absolved
her her, thus with the blessing of Her Choir
during an Effecting impression to all present
She Happly went over into Healths happy bound
in the 25 year of Her age.

Born: 12 June, 1706 at Reading, Berkshire
Died: 24 January, 1770 at Fulneck

Learn more about the life of Sarah Cennick.

The Life of the S. Sr Sarah Cennick who went happily home Jan^y 24^th 1770
I was born June the 12^th old Style 1712 in Reading Berks.
was baptiz’d in the Church of England and brought up in that Comunion.
The first thing I remember is the simple and happy intercourse
I lived in with the Lord: I knew he lov’d me; and I lov ‘d him; & therefore
used to have recourse to Him without the least reserve.

When I was about 5 Years old, I remember to have been particularly
naughty & selfwilld, which caused me much heaviness, tho’ I strove all
I could to divert and get rid of the Conviction by play &c. But
running hastily into my Mothers room, where she was sitting with
my late d^rBro^r John – then an Infant – lying in her lap.
I saw her weeping with lifted up hands, and heard her pray. I was
much affected: But felt so hard, to acknowledge my fault, but
upon repeatedly asking my Mother, why she cried and what she
was saying?  She referr’d the Cause to me and Said: “I was praying
for you and for your Brother.” This pierc’d me through, and I
thought my heart would break. For I thought, The Lord also is
greived! I therefore silently withdrew condemn’d and asham’d
and hasted to a private Place, where with many Tears, I beged
Him to forgive me; which he most graciously did directly, and
all my Burthen instantly removed.

My Father and his Relations being all Quakers of the
most primitive sort, and my Mother and hers all strict Church

of England; Her attachment to, and chief acquaintance were the
Clergy; So that I had the Oppertunity of an intimate familiarity
with ^each, not perceiving, at this time, the least disunion on either Side.

Our Parish Vicar and his Family was a part of our
most intimate acquaintance, and his Daughter, who had taken
a liking to me from my Infancy, calling me her own Child,
at last prevailed with my Parents, to take me more particularly
home to her; But our houses Joining each other, I was nearly
as much with my Parents as I was with them. This lady,
taking me, to a friends house with her, I slip’d out from
the Company, and saw two small Boats fastened to the
Landing Place in a deep Moat, I got into one of them
and reached out of it to the Side of the other Boat:
when both parting, and swiming from each other
had dragged me out of that I stood in, had not the toes
of my shoes hitch’d in something, and prevented it:
Thus hanging over the Water between both, I had
scarce time to give my self up for lost, Before I Slip’d
my hold and pitched into the Water, where to my Joyfull
surprise, instead of Sinking I found, as it were, Hands

bearing so strong against my hands as to get and keep my head above
water. Yea those kind Assistants bore me up so long, even till I was
capable of taking hold with one Hand of that Boat, wherein, all
while my shoes had hitch’d, but how I recover’d wholly, I never
could remember, only that, as I came to my self, I was flat on
my Back, safe and well. I know, who those ministers were, of
whose kinder Orders they Obey’d obeyed, and thanked them, and Him,
Friend: beging Him 100 times over: O pray don’t let it be found
out &c. Which, however remarkable, never was.

I was this Gentlemans* The parish vicarfond Companion also, and oftenIn the memoir, the phrase “the parish vicar” is written in pencil in a different hand Slid unobserv’d to him, when he was retir’d to private Devotion
sometimes I kneel’d behind, and at other times close by his side,
that I might be a partaker of those influences, which I beleiv’d,
he enjoy’d.

As I Grew older, I had more liberty among the Servants,
who endeavour’d to seduce me and bring me into all manner of
Wickedness, as much as they could, But finding me frighten’d,
and fearing I should tell, they threaten’d me hard, what they
would do to me, if I did. This brought me more particularly to my
own Hearts Friend, and they let me alone for sometime; till one
evening, I went into a back Garden, where a Company of them wo
got, but I did not know nor think of them, till I was almost
shock’d to death, and could scarce stagger into ^{the House}door, when, even in
the very Passage, the Lord met me, Comforted me, and gave me
the Assurancein my Heart, “He would preserve me for himself
for ever.” This Promise has always been a secret Comfort to me,
all my Course through, yea even, when in the highest of my Folly
in the World. I was near 8 years old, & made a memorandum of that
important Day. I was kept more close to my learning, and was
instructed in all the Principles of the Church. I also got Courage
to discover those notorious deceivers, without their knowing it was me
Yet my Heart departed from its dearest Object, and I became as
Formal and vain as any Body; I saw myself a fair Candidate
for the World; but also, Ruin, Destruction, and eternal death
stood as fair before me. This made me go on heavily, but I could
tell no one: And as I was under Preparation for the H. Comⁿ
I was the more distress’d; Sometimes in dispair and sometimes
desperate. In this Situation I went to Evening Prayers, but I
could neither pray, nor desire. I was so condemn’d; But in the
Begining of the last Prayers, my Heart became as melting Wax,
and as such a Wretch I turn’d again to my Friend, and begg’d for mercy
and got Confidence to trust and rely on him. I had sometime before
privately made it out in my own mind, that, as Oppertunity should
serve, I would privately retire to a Cloister, and in that especiall
manner dedicate myself to the Lord Forever. In

In my 17^th year it was thought proper by my Friends, that I should
go to London for further Improvement. I was receiv’d with the
greatest heartiness, and every one was kindly officious in bringing
me to public Places, and shewing me the Curiosities of the Town. I
saw the Glory’s of the World – and loved it – and concluded, as I had
often been told, I was made for the World, for it suited my Inclination
and tast every way; And I had well nigh set through all Convictions,
Though at the Bottom I had a Condemn’d heart and guilty Conscience.
My Mother being in London at this time took me with her, to see a
Friend of hers in Bedlam, and surveying the many Shocking objects
there, she turned to me and said. “This is the ^sad effect of Love and Pride.”
I made her no answere; but despairingly thought: and this will
one day be my unhappy Case unless God exert his Almighty
Power in rescuing me.

I soon followed my Mother privately to Reading, giving all my
Acquaintance the Slip; But was soon surrounded with my old
Friends and Acquaintance who were very desireous to hear news, and
learn more particularly the Fashions of the Town. I told them, I was
quite tired of all those things, and therefore resolv’d soon to retire from
all, and come and live in a quite different way: If any of them where
inclin’d to make one of the Company, when I came to settle at home,
it could be made out.

From this time I had no rest for my poor distresstHeart & mind
Therefore in my 21^st yearI left London the Last time, to put in practice
what I had so long purposed, renewing my Acquaintance with the
most solid and religious Part of my Friends. I followed as near
as I could. Step for step, with my Mother & Brother, who had
begun some time ago a more religious Course of Life; But, alas!
I grew faint hearted and tir’d: And seeing all my Works, Prayers
and Duties, good for nothing at all, and I myself that same de-
plorable Creature as ever I was, I cry’d out in the Bitterness of
my Soul: O LordJesus Christ‘ if this is the way to Heaven, I shall
never come there! My distress still increased, being more & more
Sensible of my Degeneracy; But above all did my base ingratitude
to my once so tender Lover fill me with horror and Dejection.

We had heard of the Awakening in Oxford, where my B^r went,
got acquainted with several, and brought M^r. Kinching to our house;
and afterwards M^r Wesleys, Hutchins, Whitfield &c. I was much
perplex’d in my own mind at this rash (as I thought then) proceeding
of my Brothers, fearing a Schism in the Church. But being convinced
of the truth of their Doctrine, was soon Zealouslyattached thereto.
But the Preaching being in our House, it made a great stir in the
Town, and caused us much Trouble and disgrace; So that my Mother
hearing of it in London, came home, and put an intire Stop to it.

Hereupon my Brother went to Bristoll, and I, and a well disposed single
Woman took a house in the Town; but the Preaching was given up.
By these means got the ill Will of all my Friends and Relations
My Acquaintance also shun’d me, and every one’s Face was set against
me. Thus forsaken of all, and destitute of my best Friend, I grew
dejected, and quite malancholy.

In 1740I visited Kingswood and Bristol; but could not be reconcil’d
to those Agitations among the Methodists at that time. Here I had
happiness of seeing first our d^rBro^rToeltshig, who seeing my concern,
help’d me much. I soon return’d to Readingexceedingly distress’d,
And finding my dear Companion so happy in our Sav^r and myself
so wretched, I gave up all hopes of ever being sav’d. But here in
one moment did my most graciousSaviour reveal Himself to me,
forgave me all my sin, and in an instant I was dispossess’d of every
Pain: I could hardly tell if I was in the Body or not. For my heart
saw nothing but Jesus. I felt after Sin; but behold! there was
no Sin. I felt after my own guilt and Distress, but there was
no Place found for them, and nothing but light surrounded me.
I had not enjoy’d this happiness long, before my venerable Companion
fell happily asleep on the Bosom of her eternal Bridegroom.

At my return the former Disturbances were reviv’d. many were
distresst concerning their Salvation; And the Clergy being greatly
perplex’d, endeavour’d to put me to Trouble; But our Saviour
kept me stay’d upon Him and deliver’d me safe out of their Hands.
I gave up my House, and went again to Kingswood, where M^r
Whitfield, my B^r and others were separated from M^r Wesleys, and
had begun more regular Society, and gave me the care of the
Single Women, with whom I labour’d as well as I could;
But knowing my own Insufficiency, and seeing many Irregularities
creeping in among the Young People, I told my Bro^r this was not
what suited me; and therefore I came to Reading, where a Widow
Quaker Gentlewoman had long and often desir’d I would stay with
her and take^use her House as my own. I did so, And all my Quaker
Friends were exceeding kind to me, and earnestlywish’d me to
settle amongst them; I would have done it, but had no leave from
our Savr in my own Heart. My Mind was secretly Hankering
after a Cloister: But my Bro^r desiringmy Assistance at
Tetherton, I went to him, and with all the Money I had, Goods &
Furniture, engaged with him, and the Peace of God ruled & rested
upon us.

In 44I went on a Visit to London, where our late S^r Stonehouse
brought me aquainted with my ever dearest Anna Johanna, with
whom my Heart was tenderly united, as was hers to me.

I had heard of the Order among the Single Sisters, and that it was
something like a Nunery, which exacted my enquiry and I wish’d once
to see such a Choir. My Bro^r had already contracted a large Acquaintance
with the Brethren, and sometime after gave our Societies into their
care and went on a Visit to Hhaag, and from thence to Ireland.
In his Absence I had the favour of a Visit at Tetherton from our late
d^rDisciple and Discipless, Christel, Anna Johanna &c. The Discipless
was particularly hearty with me to, whom, at first, I was somewhat
reserved; But coming upon Heart Matters, I was quite openhearted,
and she spoke to me in the most Comfortable and encouraging manner,
telling me, how tenderly She and her Company felt towards me, and
assuring me of our Saviours Thoughts of Peace concerning me.

My Brother soon after return’d, who told me yet more about the
single Sis^rs, and how earnestly he had Pray’d our Sav^r to bring me
into their happy Circle, That he knew it was just a Regulation as
would please me. Upon duly weighing the matter before our Sav^r, I wrote
to my much respected Friend, the d^rDiscipless for leave to visit the Congⁿ
in Germany, who readily granted me the favour. My Mother also
at this time, was well inclin’d towards to Breⁿ;       But meeting with
some unhpy Circumstances, she was turn’d quite against them: And
tho’ I was much Staggered, yet our Sav^r preserved me, and gave me Courage
of persevere in my Purpose. Yet I had it hard to get away, and was forc’d
to leave her against her Will.

In March 1747I arrived with many more English Brethen and
Sis^rs together with B^r & Sis Teltschig in Hhaag, where I meet with
the most cordial reception from our d^rDisciple & Discipless.
The Congregation and its regulations I saw with wonder and delight;
Especially that of the S. Sis^rs. My first Intention only was to Visit
the Congⁿ, and not to become a Member thereof; But in London, on my
way heither, being a Spectator at the Holy Communion, I was so affected
that I forgott my Resolution; Till by Occasion, soon after my arrival,
I grew Suspicious, till I was quite confus’d. But having an unreserved
Confidence to the late d^rDiscipless, I told her all my Concern, who
with the greatest tenderness & Frankness clear’d up those matters which
had given me so much pain. I now became quite happy and saw
the Congⁿ in a right light, and the Beginning of that happy Period,
which the H Ghost had so many years been preparing me for.

I had the Grace to be received into the Congregation the same year,
Was soon after Confirm’d and in Jan 1748was made a happy Partaker
of the Lords Body and Blood in the H Communion. Here also I
had the Grace to be admitted into the Class of Intercessors, and soon
after set out with B^r & S^r Boehler &c. for England. Our D^rPapa,
Mamma, the Mother, Anna Johanna &c. accompanied us to Francfort, where

where, after many Blessings, the rest day we proceeded on our Journey
in the Peace of God, and blessing of the Congregation.

After staying sometime in London, I was sent to Fulneck, where
I was one of the Congⁿ Servants, Choir Servant & Helper. In June
1750I was called to London, where I enjoy’d many blessings in the
Dear Disciples House in Bloomsbury Square. From whence I
was sent to Dublin to have the Care of the S. Sis^rs There and in the
north of Ireland. The same year I visited the North, and the Year
after was sent there; where also, as in Dublin our Sav^r accom-
panied, blessed and prosper’d me, gave me the Hearts of the Sisters,
for whom I have ever retained the tenderestaffection, and shall
to my latest Breath. So that, notwithstanding the many heavy
Circumstances, I enjoy’d the still Communion with my Hearts
best Friend; Nor were my many Faults, weaknesses and mistakes
a hindrence thereto.

In Sept^r 1758I got a Call to the Disciple House, from my
dear Anna Johanna. And the 19^th  arriv’dS^r Mary, S^r Ripley
and Matty Haley, who were most heartily receiv’d by all, and
especially by our own d^r little Choir in Ballunderry.

The 30^th S^r Mary Spoke the Sis^rs to the Comⁿ and in the Afternoon
we partook of the same. Particular meetings were appointed
in all the Plans for the Reception of the above two Sisters, which
with other meetings and matters lasted to the 18^th of Oct^r when we
viz: B^r Watson, S^r. Mary, Marg^t Graham a Widow, myself,
My dear little Neice Betsey Cennick, and Betsey Mortimer,
set off from Ballunderry, and came to Bellfast the same evening
where we were detain’d till the 24^th when in our way down
to the Vessel S^r Marygot a sad fall; we got on board however
the same evening. On the 27^th a Voilent Storm arose and
we were given up for lost. this was a trying Circumstance
to me, after I had gone through so many trials before; But
I immediately turn’d to my best and ^only Friend, thought perhaps
I was the Jonas and therefore became a sinner before Him on all
accounts, and in 5 minutes all were well between Him and
me, and my heartrejoice’d that I should so soon see him. the WW^d
of the Day was. Rom. 14, 8. “Wether we live, we live unto the Lord,
or wether we die, we die unto the Lord.”
“Must a ling’ring Death await us, This Text ever will stand Good:
He in Glory to translate us, Purchas’d all Things by his Blood.”
The 28^th we got among the sandbanks. The 29we landed in
Liver Pool safe and well. Nov^r the 2^d we came to Fulneck abt
4 o’Clock. After Tea S^r Hendrengen took care of the Children, and

And in the evening S^rMary sent to invite me into her house, where
I enjoy ‘d many Blessings; till in Jan. 59B^r& Sis^r. Houptmann
received their Call to Bedford, I embrace’d this Oppertunity of going
with them from hence to that Place, where I was receiv’d with the
greatest love and heartiness. I soon went to London, when, after
waiting along while, and meeting with many hindrences, however
on the 7^th of May I arrived with several more Brethern & Sisters
to my exceeding great Joy, having that long wish’d for happiness
of seeing my dear Papa, Mamagen and Anna Johanna once more.
The 10^th I was brought to Annenhoff, where I enjoy’d many inexpressible
Blessings. The 1^4th I was receiv’d as Acoluth and ordained a Deaconess.
Here I had the favour of Staying till the Close thereof, a time,
I shall never forget. July the 17^th I set out from Zeist with the
respectable B^r & S^r H^einrichs von Reuss & Salome Grosscame to
GnadenthalAugust the 3^rd the 11^th to Kleinwelke, & the 12^th  to Hhuth,
where I enjoy’d a real Sabatic season, Continuing in the most
tender Comunion with my eternal Friends; and in heartiest
Fellowship with all. At the latter end of this year our dear
Disciple House arrived to the universal great joy of all here; I
had the Blessing of being present at the S. Sis^rs Synod to the end;
as also at that memorable Conclusion of the faithfull Labour of those
two eminent Witnesses the d^rDisciple & Disciples of Jesus in May 1760.
That Peace of God, which came more espeically upon the
Cong^ns at that time, I also partook of in a particular manner
In which happySensationI left HhuthSep^t the 4^th with B^r & S^r Teltschig and came to Kleinwelke; the 9^th tto Barby; there I
enjoy’d many particular Blessings. The 13^th we proceeded
on our Journey, and came to Zeist on the 19^th. From thence we
came to LondonOct^r the 6^th, And the 13^th I came to Bedford, where
I was receiv’d most heartily and it went blessed^ly for a time, but
afterwards not so; Therefore I was sent to Lembster to
B^r & S^r Rice to have the Care of some young Women, Collected
from several Parts, there being only two Natives. As to outward
Circumstances it was morally impossible to come thro’ in a manner
suitable to an Oeconomy; But the principle thing in the whole
was ^thewantof hearts, and the true Spirit of Love and Harmony
amongs’t us all. I shall not enter into Farther Particulars,
They being of too painfull a nature.

In Nov^r. 1764 I receiv’d a Call from the General Synod at
Marienborn, by the Hand of my dear Bror Johann, to asist

Sis^r Mary Vogls^ng in Caring for the S. Sisters and Great Girls of
the Country Cong^ns. I receiv’d my Call with awe & real bow-
edness of heart. I wrote to S^r Mary on that account, who answer’d
me as a Priestess of God. In Dec^r. I set out with a B^r. and his
Daughter a great Girl, who had lived with me, for ockbrook,
where she was to reside. We arrived there safe and well after
a heavy Journey, and I stay’d to refresh myself for several days
among my old Acquaintance and then set out for Fulneck.
On the 21^st Dec^r. I came to Leeds where our late B^rShultze was
waiting to bring me to Fulneckthe next Day, and presented me
with a very hearty Congratulatory Letter from my D^rSis^r Mary
We arrived at Fulneck ab^t Noon on the 22^d and met with a
very hearty Reception from all my d^r old S. Sisters, and stay’d
till the 16^th of Jan; when I was brought to Gumersall Oeconomy be
S^r Mary and Ann Birkby. I felt well as soon as I enterd the
House. Early the next morning the ^two above mentioned Sis^rs
took their leave of us. I got alone into my little room and
kept a hearty Band with my Best Friend, and with many
tears devoted myself afresh to him: Put Him in mind of his
Promise viz: That He would once bring me into an
Asylum, where I should enjoy a real Sabatic sea-
son and Bridal Intercourse with Him, preparatory
to his taking me into His arms and Bosom.

He shewed me something more concerning my present call, than I
found, Some others knew, and was to remain a sceeret between Him
and me, I soon found myself at Home, and that he would bring
me safely thro’. I felt also that the Hearts of the Sis^rs were tenderly
inclin’d towards me; so that we soon became one Heart and one
Mind, and a Blessed Period commence’d, tho’ under many Difficulties.
Not long after, a certain Sabbatic mood and most intimat inter-
course, between me and my Friend took Place; So that my
Labour among the Souls, was my Delight, it per adventure
I might happily gain some, to become lovers of this my so favourite
Object. My Journeys were long and heavy, to go to the different
Cong^ns, and I being very weakly made me oft secretly sigh and weep be
fore my Friend: For it being just the depth of the winter that I come here,
made walking in those bad roads almost impracticable; But here I must
mention with the greatest gratitude & humility the more than
Brotherly & Sisterly love and Faithfullness of my good, old,
venerable Hearts Watsons; Happy for me they were at this time

living here in Gumersall, and had the Care of Wyke Plan also, they
therefore most Chearfully help’d me always, when, and where they
could with their horse &c. In Dec^r following, we had the misfortune
to loose them; For they went to Mirfield: Here also they faithfully
assisted me in every respect, and that same genuin look & heartiness
still subsisting between us especially my good S^rWatson our hearts
became joined and united in the heart of our wounded Friend, To be
Separated no more for ever. As I have always mostly travel’d on foot
My walks however have been made to me liturgic Walks, and my Friend
has so made perfect ^{his strength} in my weakness, that, when I have been well nigh
fainting and thought I could get no farther, I have been so Comforted,
refresh’d and Strengthened that I have not been sensible of pain and
weakness, and oftentimes stood still to consider whereabout I was, and
with surprize found myself nearer my Journeys end, then I could have thought
or imagin’d. My Garden has been like a little Paradise, wherein I
have admir’d, worship’d and ador’dmy Dearest Heart, the Great Gardener
of the universe, and He has always attended me in my meanest employment
therein. He has made my Labour truly a Liturgy. And how he and I have
Been engaged together. Some few Verses made on a Garden & Flowers, some
of which are here inserted, Do more emp^hatically express,

1Josephs Garden here’s intomb’d my LoverHollw’d Cave! here lies my GainHere I sing in this cool silent PowerBout the Man! my Pleasing strainSoftest Musick, gently soothingsorrowWhile thy Love sick spouse her spices gatherFrom thy Corpse so pale & wanWhich she’s fondly dotting on2Red and white my Jesu’s wounded BodyAs ⁱⁿ Gardens Flowers excellLylies fair and full Bloom roses RuddyYeild their Odoriferous smellengrav’d upon thy Corpse so sweetlyWounds like roses fresh and set compleatlyAnd some smaller holes betweenJust like Buds twist Jesemin3Lovly Picture Beauty most transcendentMatchless he! My paradiceThou my Garden fertile fragrant pleasantThou my food My tree of LifeSweet inlaid among thy Clothed TressesFrom the Thorns Pomgranates have their placeFruit and flowers, these composeMy Belov’d my Sharons roseIn the memoir, the fourth stanza is placed after stanza 8 in the right column4Edens Garden my love planted for mefavour’d place he brought me thereWas himself still with me so delight’dI with him. Ah happy pairShort liv’d Joy I got there in a surfeitEvery comfort was the fatal forfeitRudly ravish’d from my LoveMorn’d my Widow’d with Dove5Long I wander’d in the Howling desertleft my first my Virgin SpouseGot new lovers seeming fair & pleasantJoin’d in league with my Love’s forIn Gethsemeny I saw the CombatWhen he fought for Me his faithless ConsortAnd on Calvary with his LifeRejoic’d in his Dear Lov’d Wife6Here it is that I with Brides AffectionTo those places oft With my Bridegroom in his own AfflictionHere each other we admireSoftt Sensations is the pleasing CoverseAs there Gardens on together traverseMutual Kisses we impartTo and from each others Heart7Oft we stood and seiz’d with AdmirationHow intent and fond he’s beenWith what diligence and warmaffectionHe has nurs’d some Little thingHardly worth another thought or notionThis has been to him the very ChristAll the finest flowers he’s leftAnd this one more in his Breast8Yes I know him exquisite his test inWhat even Gardners count aboveThese in nosegays raisd to higher GracesHe will in his Bosom wearPublick Grandour once demonstratingWhen the Marriage will be ConsumatingEver Greens and flowers rareGrow old with these shall then appear

My little Room has been a Cabinet of Jewels to me, Therefore I have
long concluded, that if our Sav^r took me home here in Yorkshire, I
would die in my nest, and so slip away, as it were incognito
Since our dr B^r Boehlor‘s Visitation here, our Family has been
brought again into the injoyment of our Choir Graces with our Choir
to our very great abasement.

For this Year last past, I have felt that my time was out
in Gummersal, and last summer thought I should get a Call after
the Synod; but could never find out any Place where I could be sent
to. I once kept a hearty Band with my Friend about it, at the
Conclusion of which, and summing up the whole, I said to Him:
“Now would it not be better thou tookst me home to thy ^{own dr} self.”
I had no room to suspect any thing of the kind, from what I felt from him
at that time; But July last, As I was in the Chaple ^Garden at Work, He drew near
To me in an extraordinary manner, and discover’d to me Such an Union
& oneness between Him & me, as is altogether unutterable, tho’ I
did attempt to express something of it in a few Verses.

From this time I had often gentle hints of a Change, of something that would
take place, which should entirely suit me.

In August lastI got it Voilent Cold, which grew worse & worse,
And found my Lungs were infected. In the Beginning of Sept last,
I felt myself strangly ill; so as I had never been before, which lasted
some few nights & days; And during the whole time, I was most happily
Comforted with my Friends nearness, Insomuch that I felt no illness at all,
only that I was weak and drowsy. One night, unasked for, He
came Close to my Bedside, and stood there. My Heart saw Him,
And my Soul adored Him! He dispersed intirely in a moment
every painfull thought and Sensation, inwardly and outwardly
I felt after one Wound and another sore; But behold! they were all
healed. I felt after Sin, and there was no sin. I felt after misery
and Dejection, But there was none to be found; And thus I was made
sound and whole, except those pleasing Wounds of Love, which He
had made long before in my enamour’dHeart, But now more
Deeply impress’d.

Now it was, He gave me, the soft impression of his Gracious
intention Concerning me; while I silently worship’d before Him.
On the 26^th my d^rS^r Lorel called on us in her return from
Duckenfield, and was quite alarm’d at my seeming bad state
of Health, would not rest, But insisted on my going to Fulneck,
To stay there for some time which I did; where I assisted in
seeing the Sisters for the Communion, and could not forbear to
drop a word now and then concerning something, the very obscure of
my happy Situation. On the 9^th I return’d to Gummersal, where
my Disorder increased, And my Friend confirmed more

Strongly what he had made allready manifest to me. I was very well
seemingly, fix’d and suited; But my d^r. S^r. Lorel could not be reconcil’d
to my staying at Gumersel, and I must own shew’d more then Mothers
Faithfulness and Affection: In these Circumstances she could not be
prevailed upon to be Satisfy’d, unless I came to Fulneck.

I therefore set out in mere faith, with B^r Samuel Fowler and
Joseph PealNov^r. 20^th1769 and arriv’d here safe, and meet with a very
hearty Reception. The first d^r Heart which saluted me, was
my most dear and venerable Heart Anna Johanna; I was also made
happily sensable of that genuine Love and heartyaffection of the
Choir in general, And more especially of^from all those in Office; so that
that peace of God, and that Sabbath, which I never had heard any
one possessing, at least so long before their Departure, accompanied
me here also in the clearest manner, which begun at the time above
mentioned, when our Sav^r manifested Himself to me in such an
especiall manner. But here I must mention some essential
things, which I forgot to mention in their proper places, viz.
After all that the Lord had done for me, and I was clear and well
establish’d in it: One Day, as He & I were solacing ourselves in
each others love, it came into my mind; But that oneness & union
which I had possessed in Him. I was not so clear in at this time: He
shew’d me, I was wholly in Him and He in me, and that we
were One as he and the Father are One. I saw myself cloathed
upon in Him, and possessed of all the Bridal Ornaments of the Bridegroom.
I must therefore ascribe all the Honour and Glory alone to my own d^r.
eternal Slaughter’d Lord and Saviour and conclude my
Narrative with the Greatest truth in all the World: viz.
That, Where Sin hath abounded, Grace hath abounded
Much more.

Our venerable and Happily departed Sis^r Sarah Cennick,
Has in some measure Specify’d How varioussly her Election of Grace
has ^been manifested w^here-ever her happy Lot Has been cast, during
Her Course through this vale of tears.

Her Strong Capacity, Great Gifts, and quick sensations, was
Iluminated by such extraordinary Grace from the H. Ghost
As evidently Signalized Her a peculiar Person of Blessed
remembrance to the Hearts of many Souls.

Yet amidst all those great Endowments, she had the
Happiness, through the infinite Mercys of God, to be throughly
Convinced of her great depravity in Soul and Body, and
which truly as a monument of uncommon Mercy and Grace,
was preserved, in her Earlyest years, From the dangers and
vain Foibels of her natural Inclinations, and as her own
words has spoke it, she counted it the highest Dignity

to be rank’d amongst the Chiefest of Sinners, and has with particular
clearness expresst her mind in a few verses on this subject, in the
Beginning of her last Sickness, as follows

Thou Feast of worms & atomsRepast of Sinners poorWho on thy Godheads BottomStands sav’d for evermoreWhat signified to TheeOur vast depravityThou Abyss of PerfectionThou loves immensityInseperable unionDevotions fragrant Source Most Heavenly ComunionDevinest Intercourse Soft Gentle soothing HumEffectual aninumfor evermore to SolaceThe Spirit& Bride say, Come.

By these Verses something may be understood of that truly
Evangelical intercourse, which our late happySis^r had with
her Souls Bridegroom; She has certainly been favour’d with a
more than common union and nearness from her Friend & Lover.
Her Soul magnify’d the Lord, and her Spirit daily rejoiced in God
her Sav^r whom she recommended on all Occasstions, with such
energy, as is not to be expresst in words, which bears an Indelible
Signature of Blessing in her Choir. During her last Sickness
we have seen many Blessed Testemonies of this Kind, wherein
she has plainly shown, that her very Soul was animated with
new life whenever our Sav^r or his matters was named,
Especially with regard to the General and Individual Intercourse
which our dear Lord should have in the Choir. On Consideration
of our dear Sis^rs Situation, and Circumstances in Sickness at
Gumersall, At our desire she remov’d to end her days in the
midst of her Choir at Fulneck, yet she retained the same Love
and Concern, for her dear GumersallSis^rs, to whom we
perceiv’d on all Occassions, she had the tenderestattachment
And her hearts Connexion with the Fountain of Love defus’d it
self thro’ the whole Choir. For notwithstanding her great
weakness, she desir’d to see the Sis^rs Room by Room, took a
most tender and solemn farewell of them all; Like wise Little
Moore & GumersallOeconomies, The Latter of which, she desir’d
to see once again, when her Dissolution was perceptably hastening,
which was a most moving scene, To Behold and feel with what power
and grace, she gave her last Benediction to that dear Oeconomy
Where she had finishe’ her faithfull Labour in this Crosses Kingdom

Here Below. And blest each with impossion of hands in the most
maternal and feeling manner.

From this time her weakness increas’d more sensibly, which
Excited a more Eagerdesire to see her Class, which Oppertunity was
most thankfully embraced to have once more a LFeast with her,
And her aspect testify’d what her heartinjoy’d on this Occasion to
have the great priviledge to declare in our midst, that the Peace
of God our Saviour, was so preceptably felt to rule and preside
By one Spirit among’st us, to the Great Comfort and astonishment
Of her heart, which she confess’d meet her at the first entrance
at our Doors. She pray’d fervently, that this Peace and blessed Harmony
in our Choir, and particularly in this her Class, might daily increase &
Prosper to the Honour of his holy name, and the Blessing on the whole
Choir, which made a latting impression on all present; And at the
Close took a most Affecting leave, and like a Handmaid and Priestess
of God, sencerely recommended her fellow Helper Lorel Seidel to the
Special blessing of the Lord in her future Course & Labour in the Choir.
The 23 in the evening she Complain’d of a pain in her Side, but had
a Tolerable good night, and took her Breakfast in the Morning, with
More relish then usual, but felt very weary.

About 9 o’Clock on S^r Lorels entering the Room she call’d
Her to her bedside, And with uncommon firmness of mind ^saidLorel
this very day. I’m determin’d to go home and repeated it again with
the greatest fervency, Saying, I have been speaking with my
Friend about it, See to it, that you have my mansion ready
(the Corpses Chamber), and then was still for some moments, a Sister
Continuing by her Bedside whom she ask’d, what she was reading
so devotly in Her Countenance. The Sis^r Answer’d, it’s the near
Approaches of your Desolution, which engages my attention in
an unutterable manner. She smiling made no answer and
remained still for some time, and then ask’d, what it was that
she now perceiv’d come with a little noise from her Breast said
is it Death! answer’d by the Sister I beleive it is, then she haistyly
reply’d, Pray then call Lorel. At whose entrance into the
Room, she fixt her eyes upon her and said, Dont look so anxious
This Ruttling in my Breast is no pain to me, I am quite easy
and shall very soon be with him, in whose heart centers all my wishes.

She retain’d a Strong presence of Mind, and during her
Whole Sickness to her last Moments, was Carried on with remarkable
Serinity and ease, Traceing many intimations from some
Months past of her GraciousLords intentions with her
By this sickness, And that no pains should interrupt that

Sweet Comunion that her Soul injoy’d with its Beloved Bridegroom
Which was truly verify’d to the end.

About an Hour before she departed it was perceivd her
Lips moved very quick, beleiving she call’d some one by name,
On being ask’d if it was so, she reply’d it’s possibly. But I
was conversing with my Friend and lover: Continuing in this
way about 3 quarters of an hour, And then wanted very much
To Speak, Her Faliltering Tongue could no more be understood
only Christ & Cry &c. a few moments would now end the Period
of her time, upon which Sis^r. Lorel laid her hand upon her head
and she look’d once more up. And then Closs’d her eyes to Sleep
in the Arms of her everlasting Bridegroom. during
The Blessing of her Choir, with a most powerfull feeling of
Grace, from the sensible near presence of our dearest Lord,
Which will never be forgotten by those who had the favour
To be present, at this important Event

Her Corpes had a most lovly Aspect. She has spent in this
Dying Life 57 Years, 7 Months, and some Days. In the margin in pencil, next to the last line, is written “1770”

Born: 12 August, 1734 at Rastrick Yorkshire
Died: 25 December 1754 at Fulneck

Learn more about the life of Mary Alott

Mary Alott
Was born at Barksland in the Parish of
Elland. On the 12^th of Dec^r 1734 N S.

When she was about Three years old her
Father dyed & she liv’d with her Mother &
her Aunt (Namely Betty Midgley) who
jointly Nurs’d & Maintain’d ^her till she was
about seven, then her Mother being again
Married her Aunt left them took a Room
& design’d to live by herself, But ^Mary not being
at all willing to be left behind often begg’d
her Aunt to take her with her, which
according^ly in a few weeks after she Willlingly
did, & Cared for her as her own.

When she was about Nine years old she
by the Drawing of the Holy Ghost was inclin’d
to hear the Gospel which she of her own free
accord begun & Continued Constantly to do.

Some time after her Aunt had a mind for
the more Convenince of hearing the B^rn
 to live nearer Smith House & she made it
out with the Brethren that Mary should also
come & remain with her which she was very
glad off.

In July 1748 they Both of them together got
leave to live with the Single Sisters in Clack-
Heaton & she remain’d there & in the same
Oconomy at Tyre-sell-Hall till we came
in the Choir House (Which I shall take
Notice of afterwards)

In the year 1751 on the 5^th of April she
was receiv’d in the Congregation which Pleas’d

her very much. In 1753 on the 25 of February
she after many a Heartywish & Earnestlonging
for it was addmitted to the Lords Supper
In the same year was Receiv’d from the Great Girls
to the Single Sisters Choir.

She has since about 10, or 11, Years Old,
carried about a Very Sickly & Weakly Tabernacle
which she bore without Complaint, & being of an
exceeding shill quiet, but also very solid &
sensible Dispossition she was seldom
heard to speak about any thing except when
spoken to: But however as we now have found she
took good Notice of ever thing & Ponder^‘d them in
her Heart.

In February this present yearshe had the
Small-Pox which not only went very hardly
with her But also left that remaining on her
which Render’d her Much more Weak & Sickly
than before a Consumption appearing thro’ her
Whole Constitution: It was manifest to all about her
she could not hold it out long, tho she herself wo’d
commonly say when ask’d about it “that she was
pretty well Nevertheless what she inwardly felt
Brought her ^also upon the thoughts & consideration
of going to Our Saviour (as she afterward, de-
clar’d with Joy.)

In July she was a little Better but the disor-
der Presently return’d more strong than ever:
Yet she continued to walk about till the 22d of
November, then she entirely took her to her
Room & soon after to her Bed.

Now she freely acknowledgeing that she
had all this summer last, been in a Continual
meditation & Consultation with her Dear Saviour

about her going to him, having ^all along been Senscible
of it for herself that she should not stay here
but the Reason why she would not confess it
openly was because she was affraid she should
not go as soon as she wish’d for.

She was now exceeding Bad, but quite Brisk
in ^her Spirits & chearfulin Heart & Soul, & as before
even Ever since we have known her she has
been us’d to speak very little, so Now to the Con-
trary, ^she spoke a great deal especialy to these
with whom she had had an intimiate acquaintance
& Perticularly with Our dear Sister Mary
who very faithfully visited her all the time

On the 12^th instant she had her Birth-Day
(being 20; years old,) when many Sisters who vis-
ited her Express’d their Heartywishes for her
which she receiv’d, & answer’d with much satis-
faction: In the afternoon her Class made
her a Very Pretty Love-Feast which rejoic-
ed her Exceedingly & in which she spoke of
her Departure with such Pleasure & Delight
as she never had done before; she spoke with
sister Mary & Made out Ev’ry thing that was in
her Mind about her Burial, as well as all
the Heartywishes & desiresof her heart for
her Class & c. In short she said that this had
been to her the Happiest day she ever had
had in all her life. This day & forward she
unbosom’d & declar’d what she had (Perhaps)
kept Treasur’d up in her Heart to this Opper-
tunity for some years Past, She spoke of her
various Troubles & Anxieties in Particular Circum-

Circumstances, such as no body had perciev’d on her
with with a Chearful & ThankfulHeart, being
bowed with Shame before him will whom she
had spent many happy Moments, days & years

About the 15^th it being Two years since
we came in ^ourChoir House she told Sister Mary
Ev’rything how she had been & was in Tyre-
sell-Hall at that time, What Anxiety &
Concern she felt about coming in the Choir House
fearing Least she should not have leave to
come & how she had in Shillness Pray’d & wept
before her dear Lamb, that he would give
her Leave to come & that if she should have
that favour that he would grant her the feel-
ing & nearness of his Wounds that she might
be faithful to him therein &c. Nay his almost
incredible, how quick & active her Memory
was over this matter she not only gave Sis^r
 Mary an account of herself but of all the
Sisters in Tyre-sell-Hall at that time, she
(unperceiv’d) had taken Notice of ev’ry One,
conduct words & behaviour, But to return
she also Express’d herself in a very Lively
manner with grace & Understanding how
Exceedingly she was Rejoiced when she was
assured she should come here. She at the
same time viz’ the 15^th or 16^th Instant spoke w^th
with an inly Tender feeling about the Choir
& Choir Grace what she has felt since
she was Receiv’d in the Single Sisters Choir
& what her dear Bridegroom has done from
time to time on her therein, & Perticularly
in this Present Year, together with the Esteem

& Satisfaction she has had for, & in the Choir House
this she did from time to time Repeat And
also she would allways take notice of many
Sisters whom she saw & Reflected on their
Situation at Present and time Past & when
Sister Mary came to her then she would sell
her all her Mind about them & Especialy the
concern she had had, about her Class under
some heavy Circumstances some Months agoe
& being ask’d why she did not speak at such
time what she had in her mind? She answer’d
“that she always thought herself too mean
& too insignificant to Speak Her mind about
any thing, But she had instead of that gone
somewhere in a Corner & Wept for them be
fore her dear Saviour & Pray’d him that he
would Bless Preserve & keep them & Her
& that they Might all become a Joy to Him

Once in Sister Mary‘s Presence after having
fully spoken & Open’d all her Mind to her a
bout Many things, she took Notice that her
Aunt (who faithfuly tended & Nurs’d
her all the time of Sickness) was a Cry-
ing: So she demanded the Reason of her why
she wept, telling her she had no Ocassion
to weep for her since “says she” I am fully
Satisfied & Reconciled both with My Lamb &
& with all my Sisters & have spoke my mind
about Everything & Now am Ready to go
whenever he Pleases

Thus she Continued under a Deep Sense
& Speaking of herself & her Choir & Often
Expressing her Desire to go. But yet she

would Secretly sometimes say to her Aunt that
she believ’d she should live till Christmas, but
If our SaviourPleasd to take her before, she
would be glad

Sunday Last about 11 or 12 in the Evening
she was Siez’d with the monst Violent pain
So that Sister Mary who at the same time
watch’d with her Perceiv’d such a Senscible
Alteration not only by her Excessive Pains
but also by the Motion & Alteration of all
her Faculties that she thought she Realy would
go, & thereupon ask’d her if she was now quite
Ready. She with Pleasure & Serenity answer’d
“yes! I am Quite Ready now & shall be glad to
go to my Lamb as soon as he Pleases”

However she reviv’d a little & then desired
2 verses which she named to be sung for her
viz Appear as her Protector who turns to
Joy all Tears & When she shall get Per-
mission to leave this Mortal Tent, From Pains
& Griefs Dissmission Thy self Just then present
And then says she “Sing Hush stir not up
the friend of Christ, Wake not the Lovely Bride &c

She was very Bad all Night & Lay like
one Expireing till towards Night on Monday
Yet she Bore her Pains with Much more
Patience^than any one could Expect who did but
see how she was Munday night she was some-
what Easier & appear’d to us as if she might
Possibly continue a few days, But if she heard
any one take notice of the near approach

of
Christmass & of the Joy we Expected in the Birth
day of our Saviour She would readly answer
them that if our Saviour only was Pleas’d to let
her go to him before or in the Holidays She
should have a far Better Christmass than
We and that she would be glad of.

Tusday Night she Alter’d again & on Wed-
nesday Morning was much Worse. In the
Forenoon we thought again she would Certain-
ly Depart, But she continued and lay severly
Oppresse’d with the Most Excessive Pangs thro’
Ev’ry Limb & Fibre, Speaking very little, But
Panting in Stillness for the Happy Moment
when she should get the Departing Kiss, And
when Sometimes her Tabernacle seem’d to be
almost Rack’d in Pieces with the most shock-
ing & Excessive Pain as almost could be thought
Unpossibl a Human Creature could Bear. she
herself was concern’d how she would say “Ah! how
shall I hold it Out Why does he not fetch me
Sis Mary then would remind her of the Hard
Toil & Conflict of our Saviour which he bore
in his Humanity Saying My dear Heart it
is but a few Minutes & you will be with
him, She that Moment was again in a
CalmSerenity^Heavenly & Peace^& Said O! yes he soon
will fetch me to his Embraces, Which she
Obtain’d Under these Words, The Lamb w^th
all his Grief & Smart Remains the Pleasure
of the Heart Long as it Moves in Thee
And Now when Here it Beats no more
There where the Spear His Side did
bore thou Last thy Place Etneraly and

so she sweetly went to sleep in the Arms of
her Lover about 5 o’clock in the Evening
on Christmas Day.

It is to be Oberv’d that this dear Heart
was the Only One Great Girl in all the
Oconomies was One of the first that was
Receiv’d in the Congregation The Only One
that came in the Choir House at first
She was the first that was admitted to the
Sacrament. And Now the first that is gone
to Our saviour. Where she Rests from all her
Pain: And has Left behind her the Char-
acter of an Honest Upright Unaffected
& Enamour’d Virgin Heart She has been
Known by those who have liv’d with her from
her first Commg ^{among us} to this Her Dissolution to be
an Example of Patience of Steadfastness &
Constancy in her Love to him who first gave
her Confidence to believe in his Wounds she
never Once having been Perceiv’d to Draw back
or to Slight her Calling in Joy or in Smart,
and Now at last her Mouth has made a
a Brief Confession of Him Whom her Heart
hasLoved Felt & Believ’d on.