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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.

Concerning Pax[s]on Vickers, who “had a birth right and Education in the Society of Friends,” marrying outside the faith. Vickers was disowned after failing to provide “evidence that his connection with the society would be useful to either,” until he can “unite with Friends and condemn his transgression of our Order.” Issued at Uwchlan Monthly Meeting held 12th Month 6th 1841.

Believes suicide is not against scripture and discusses the mental and physical state of a friend that led to her suicide. Discusses capital punishment and hireling priests. Charles Burleigh will visit and help preserve the anti-slavery movement and some would like Abby Kelley to visit. Discusses anti-slavery publications and the determination to do what is right, regardless of the discipline of the Meeting. Questions the effectiveness of the Society in its work against slavery. Levi Carroll, a fugitive slave, is visiting and being sent on to Canada.

Benjamin gives accounting instructions, at least part of which relate to education. He will be attending the Baltimore Quarterly Meeting and then will commence lecturing. Includes a mathematical problem with a geometrical solution.