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Delayed writing until Phebe Field and N. Meritt and his wife returned from visiting the Ohio and Indiana Yearly Meetings, providing details including their interest "in the cause of humanity, the people of colour, and the Aborigines of this country." Comments on abolitionism, "regrets" about a member's position on colonization which "did not exactly harmonize with the free people of the west." Reflections on Quaker writings, Elisha Bates, George Fox, Margaret Fell. Spending the winter with the Howland family, noting their work investigating genealogy, the family coat of arms, and history dating back to the French and Indian War. Notes the continued progression of abolitionism, including into mainstream politics.

Met William Wordsworth (1770-1850) who was preparing to travel to Italy and is sending his signature [not included], despite Cope’s dislike of his poetry. Popular education efforts among the poor and meetings for reading the Scriptures. Sorry that Elisha Bates (1781-1861) did not visit Cope and assures Cope that they do not interpret his disagreement with Bates as unkindness, likely in reference to the Beaconite Controversy. Believes Robert Benson may have informed Cope of their religious conflicts among local Quakers, including some leaving the Meeting. Has not been reading any geological books lately, referencing William Buckland’s (1784-1856) works and their religious implications. Discusses a local farmer discovering matter preserved in a bog which may have been animal or human remains. Gives an account of Anna Gurney (1795-1857), a paraplegic woman living with Sarah Buxton at Northrepp’s Cottage, describing her active lifestyle, efforts on behalf of seafaring safety, linguistic accomplishments, and work as a secretary for Thomas Fowell Buxton (1786-1845) and educating sailors’ orphans. Inquires about Cope’s opinion of John Wilkinson’s writings, commenting on his religious development. Remarks on Orthodox Quakers, hesitancy in discussing differing religious views, and her brother Bev [Joseph Bevan Braithwaite, 1818-1905] researching early Quaker works.

Receipt of books and pamphlets dealing with the Hicksite controversy. Describes his attempts to be patient with differing opinions but remains strong in his own convictions. Describes Elizabeth Griscom's pulmonary disease.

Stresses the importance of the founding thinkers of the Society of Friends and believes that the Society’s early principles are enough for Friends to exercise “all the duties, civil and religious that are required of the Christian.” Distractions from the worship of Christ are a serious threat to morality. Remarks on “our late lamentably distinguished reformer” [Elias Hicks]. Does not believe that the Society must ally with “popular movements of the day” to participate in civil and religious duties. Quotes the “Thousand Tongues,” condemning Quakers for not helping the abolition movement. Laments the current weakness of the Society. Expresses his apprehensions about the Society getting involved in a “channel” that they cannot control – and so possibly put them “in direct collision” with their most dear principles. Requests examples of concrete instances where Friends have served the abolitionist cause.

Sister and mother ruminate on Margaret’s difficult decision on a seemingly romantic matter. Note transgressions in clothing and relationships, and the desire for "literary acquirements" in a partner. Discuss selling land, knitting, yarn, and production of dairy products and clothing.

Condolences on death of sister.

Dreariness of Virginia landscape attributed to slavery. References Garrison and a dissatisfaction with "ultra-Abolitionists." Discusses female acquaintances, Thomas P. Cope and Mary Ann Cope, a steamboat event, and work on researching a history.

Commentary on dissention in Friends' meeting with Gurneyites and draft of an Anti-Gurneyite petition. Mentions Thomas Nichols, Rachel Gardner, and George Reed. Possesses an account of George Fox's death and burial.

Mentions letters and books received, family news. Excerpts from a “communication delivered by dear Ann Jones” at a Quaker meeting for Thomas and John Wilbur (1776-1854). Jones speaks of a brighter day approaching for Quakers and for those “living in the faith, the true faith of the Gospel.” Applauds John Wilbur’s refusal to “meet those vile people” any longer, believing it “no more unconstitutional than their demanding the interviews or appointing the committee in the first place.” Annoyed by music from an organ and music box.

Married Quaker woman discusses her absent husband, botanical studies with William Gibbons, and attendance with a number of female acquaintances at a series of Anatomy and Physiology lectures, which include mannequin dissections. Notes discomfort at the mixed-gender nature of public anatomy lectures and the establishment of an alternative lecture series for women. Justifies her attendance by noting the respectability of the women. Discusses postage costs and reading materials.