Sixth day. I endeavoured to spend this day as I ought to do. Met with some interruption from a careless neighbour, by the trespass of his unruly cattle. How much more comfort and satisfaction would neighbourhoods enjoy, if all honestly endeavoured to walk uprightly, agreeably to that excellent rule left us by Jesus Christ: “all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them; for this is the law and the prophets.”
Seventh day, 1st of 5th month. Still pressing after a more full release from the world and its cares, endeavouring to redeem the time, because the days are still evil, or attended in many respects, with much evil. The alarm of war is heard in the land, and much contention is among the people. Flee, O my soul, to thy rock, the name of the Lord; for, in it is safety, and a sure refuge from all the storms and tempests, that assail poor mortals in passing through this vale of tears, and state of trial and probation.
First day. Had to suffer through the meeting to-day. Alas, how oft have the poor ministers to be baptized for, and with, the dead!
Second day. Still pressing after a release from my worldly cares; as the time is near at hand, when I shall proceed on my proposed journey to the south and west on my good Master’s business, I hope, in the way he is pleased to lead.
Third day. Felt much poverty of spirit to-day, although nothing particular has occurred either on the right hand or the left; therefore I feel, in a good degree, a peaceful mind which is worthy of thanksgiving.
Fourth day. Still pressing after a full settlement of my temporal concerns that I may be in a state of readiness to pursue my journey, as soon as the way opens.
Fifth day. Was favoured, towards the close of our meeting to-day, to discharge another debt of love and care to my friends, as it was likely to be the last opportunity I should have with them before I proceeded on my intended journey; and, through the prevalence of gospel love, it was made a tendering baptizing season to some, and we parted under a degree of the uniting influence of it.
Sixth day. Still aiming at the same mark of readiness and preparation for my journey, expecting to leave home to-morrow, and proceed therein, if the cloud is removed from the tabernacle, and the light should lead the way.
Seventh day, 8th of 5th month, 1813. I commenced the journey on this day, after a precious solemn season with my family, in which I was favoured, in fervent supplication, to recommend them to the divine protection and preserving care of the Shepherd of Israel. Under a thankful sense of his loving kindness we took leave of each other in much affectionate sympathy and brokenness of spirit, I rode to New-York with a peaceful and quiet mind. My kinsman Isaac Hicks, of Westbury, kindly accompanied me in this journey.