Children of George and Eleanor Richardson

On Thursday, in her 30th year, at Ackworth School, near Pontefract, Rachel, wife of Mr. Thomas Pumphrey, superintendent of that institution.

Rachel Pumphrey, Ackworth                    38             20 1 mo. 1842

Wife of Thomas Pumphrey; and eldest daughter of George and Eleanor Richardson, of Newcastle-upon-Tyne .

The pious care and example of her beloved parents, and the privileges she enjoyed in having received a guarded and religious education, were often recorded by her with feelings of much gratitude.

It may emphatically be said, that she feared the Lord from her youth ; and from an early age, she appears to have appreciated the value of religious retirement, and the daily private reading of the Holy Scriptures. She also read extensively and greatly to her profit, in the writings of our early friends. When about sixteen or seventeen years of age, she kept for awhile a record of her experience and feelings ; but she was soon afterwards best satisfied to discontinue, and to destroy it. In reference to this subject, she remarks, in a note found after her decease, explaining to her friends why they would find no written memorandums of a religious nature : " As often as I have thought of committing my feelings to paper, it has seemed to he a forbidden thing to me ; the watchword has rather been, 'Leaving the things which are behind, press forward towards those which are before ; looking unto Jesus, the author and the finisher of our faith.' It has always appeared to me, to require a degree of humility, of which I have found myself to come short, to look afterwards at such memorandums, and a great degree of simplicity to write them. At the same time I would acknowledge, that [the perusal of] such memorials has often done me good ; and they have been blessed to my own mind, especially in early life. "

In the 7th mo., 1824, having in the course of a journey attended some favoured meetings for worship, she thus writes ; " I think I never before felt so forcibly the incalculable privilege it is, to dwell amongst the ( living in Israel ; ' accompanied, however, with an earnest desire, that we, who are thus favoured, may not be placing too much dependence upon it; but endeavour to seek after a knowledge of the truth for ourselves ; well knowing, that nothing short of that will be of any avail."

From her correspondence, the following extracts are taken :--
8th mo., 1824. " I seem indeed to have almost every comfort I could wish for. What a favour it is to be able to say so much ! The language of my heart often is, ' What shall I render to the Lord for all his benefits?' 0, that I could more unreservedly dedicate the few talents I possess, to the service of Him, who hath crowned me with loving-kindness and tender mercies.

7th mo. , 18th, 1 826. " How sweetly does it calm the mind, when looking to the future with anxiety, to reflect that all events are under the superintendence of an unerring Providence ; and that, whatever will be really for our good, will not be denied. I have sometimes thought, there is no kind of discipline, to which I am more indebted than to that of disappointments ; they tend to turn the mind back into its proper channel ; and lead us to look for enjoyment from the inexhaustible source. What should we do, if we had the sole direction of our own affairs ! I long for that habitual temper of mind, which is always on the watch, in the midst of company and active engagements, as well as when permitted to pursue the even tenor of my way. "

In the 11th mo., 1826, she was married to Thomas Pumphrey of Worcester, to whom she proved a true helpmeet both in temporal and spiritual matters, and a faithful, affectionate, sympathizing companion, being well qualified and ever ready, though with great diffidence, to enter into her husband's religious exercises.

As a parent, she was concerned above all things, to train up her children in the Divine fear, and to lead them to the knowledge of Christ their Saviour ; to cherish in their minds an habitual sense of the presence of God, and of their filial relation to him ; whilst her consistent and humble deportment was very instructive to them.

The pious submission with which she held these precious treasures, may be gathered from the manner in which she notices the recovery of her two eldest children from a severe attack of typhus fever. In the case of the eldest, but little expectation of recovery had been entertained.

8th mo., 1834. "It would have been a heavy trial to have given her up, my companion and only girl ; yet I should much rather at this time, consign her to the silent tomb, than that she should live to dishonour her Saviour. I have often felt both now and at many other times, that I durst only ask for lengthened days for our dear little ones, in entire submission to the design of a higher wisdom ; seeing, as we do, so many, even of the children of parents, whose first desire for them has been that they might adorn the doctrine of God their Saviour, who, as they grow up, will choose their own way, and are intent only on their own gratification. "

She was desirous that the clothing of her children should be simple ; remarking, " The more I consider it, the more I am convinced of the inconsistency of decking our children, in what we should consider highly improper for ourselves to wear. Is it not gratifying the same spirit of vanity in the mother, which would be fostered by its being bestowed upon herself, had not custom made an imaginary distinction ! "

It was an important era in the life of our dear friend, when she was required to leave the domestic privacy which she loved, to occupy the situation, which for the last seven years of her life, she filled in the school at Ackworth. When the much valued friend, who for so long a period had held the office of Superintendent of that institution, resigned his appointment, her husband thought it his duty to offer himself to fill the vacancy ; and being appointed to the post, his wife, not without much hesitation and anxiety, accepted that of general mistress of the family. This was in the year 1834.

To the timid mind of our beloved friend, the prospect was one, which involved her in much mental conflict.

3rd month, 12th, 1834, she writes ; " If I know my own heart, it is my first, my chief desire, to be found walking acceptably before my God ; and for this I think nothing would be too hard to part with ; but so many letting, hindering things prevent me from having free access to the throne of grace ; though I well know, that strength in weakness is offered.

" This trial has shown me a little more of the depravity of my own heart. If self and self-will were sufficiently slain, I should have been spared some of the conflicts through which I have had to pass. Sometimes I attain to a degree of resignation ; and a desire prevails that I may be made willing to be, to do, or to suffer all, and every thing that may be required at my hands by Him,
who has a right to dispose of us at his pleasure, at other times the various difficulties in our path are almost overwhelming. "

Again in a letter to a dear friend, she says, " Looking at my own unutterable weakness, and my many slippings and short-comings, I have been well nigh overwhelmed. At one time it did introduce us into deep distress ; and though the undertaking does not diminish in magnitude, yet I have latterly been able to look to it with more calmness : and with something of a trust, that He, who calls for the sacrifice at our hands, will either provide a ram, or give strength equal to our day. "

On the same subject, to her dear father, she writes, "It has been a time of much searching of heart, and still finding so much of unsubdued self, no wonder I am ready to shrink from a situation so conspicuous, lest by unwatchfulness, and my many slippings, I should bring disgrace upon that cause, which I ought more especially to adorn. I do desire not to distrust the goodness of our heavenly Father ; and if he will but be pleased to keep us near to himself, and be to us strength and qualification, I seem to regard any little sacrifice, we may be called upon to make, as of very inferior importance. "

Thus was she enabled to. trust in child-like simplicity on Him, who, she believed, had directed her steps ; and having had her path made plain before her, in her removal to Ackworth, she never doubted but that she was in the post of allotted duty. And in this post, she not only had great satisfaction, but, as she frequently expressed to her friends, she derived from it no small amount of real enjoyment.

A few weeks after her arrival at Ackworth, she thus addressed one of her friends : " I am sure we have loud calls for gratitude to our gracious heavenly Father, who has been mercifully pleased to regard us. If ever a state of unremitting watchfulness was needful for us, surely now it is especially so ; surrounded by those who are looking to us, and upon whom our example must have an influence, either good or bad. "

Our beloved friend was pre-eminently a domestic character; and in this capacity, she guided her affairs with discretion, looked well to the ways of her household, and ate not the bread of idleness. To her, as the female head of the female department, of this large establishment, causes of anxiety could not but arise. On one occasion, she remarks : " I have been gradually throwing off the load of anxiety which was weighing on my spirits a few weeks ago ; and have felt ability to leave it all in the hands of Him who doeth all things after the counsel of his own will, both in heaven and on earth. I have believed my place was to keep quiet ; and endeavour to live a day at a time ; being assured, that more will not be required than there will be strength given to perform, if the fault be not my own. "

On another: "It is not for us to question the dealings of Omnipotence, or to repine at the proceedings (however past our finding out) of Him whose name is emphatically Love. I know my heart needs both the hammer and the fire ; and if it become at length but melted and broken, I hope not to murmur at the means.

Notwithstanding the retiring character of our dear friend ; her religious experience, and the exercise of her mind for the spiritual welfare of her fellow-members, were appreciated by her friends ; and in the spring of the year 1889, she was appointed by her monthly meeting to the station of Elder. She had, indeed, a hearty love for the truth as it is in Jesus ; and fully believed that she found it set forth in the principles and testimonies of the Society of Friends. She loved the spiritual and practical character of its whole economy, -- the simplicity of its worship, -- and the wholesome order of its discipline.

We again introduce a few extracts from her correspondence.

8th month, 3rd., 1840. " The last two years, I think I may say, have been the happiest of my life. Deep as we have had to feel and to mourn, for the prospect, and then the reality, of the loss our circle has sustained, [in the death of a beloved brother,] yet it has been attended with sweet consolation ; and, I do believe, has been a blessing in disguise. It has helped me to live more on the verge of eternity, and to realize the great uncertainty of life, in a way which to my own mind has been profitable. "

To a friend, who was under affliction, she remarks : " Such is this chequered scene, no rose without a thorn ! and few are the cups allotted to us, so bitter, but we may find some palliating admixture ; shewing that the hand of mercy administered the draught. Well is it for those, whose treasure is more safely secured ; who have in store an abiding city ; and who pass through this life as pilgrims following their Guide ; secure in his love and protection, and finding Him in truth, a refuge in times of trouble. "

Our dear friend had for several years been in declining health, and the ravages which a deeply-seated internal disease, had made on her strength and constitution, had gradually compelled her to resign one duty after another, till she became entirely incapacitated from engaging in any of the active pursuits of life.

In a letter to her father, dated 2nd month, 5th, 1841, she remarks:--

" The prospect of being still more laid by, has been for some time unfolding itself before me. For the sake of my p[r]ecious children, whose path I may perhaps still smooth a little, I should prefer, even such a life ; but in regard to every thing else, it is incomparably harder than an early removal. Unworthy as I am, there have been many seasons, within the last two years, when through the mercy and merits of the One atoning sacrifice, death has been robbed of his sting. Still there is no doubt abundant need of further purification. I still find I know but little of my own heart : and if this work may but be furthered, I hope I could welcome any suffering. The difficulty I have found in being willing to be entirely laid aside, proves the need of this ; and whatever it may be, however humiliating, seeing it is the will of my heavenly Father, whom I hope I do love above all, I ought cheerfully to acquiesce. "

Again she writes: " Thrown back upon my own resources, -- not suddenly it is true, but in no long time, removed from a scene of bustle, and care, and responsibility, and having nothing as it were to do, but to guard the thoughts ; I have, indeed, found as vigilant a watch required, as under any other circumstances : and much do I desire that the lesson, which it ought to teach me, may be an abiding one."

2nd month, 8th, 1841. " It has been a severe trial to lay aside one after another of my active duties, until now almost nothing is left : but I do earnestly long for complete resignation to whatever may be in store for me. I have much, very much to be thankful for ; especially that the arrangements, lately made in the family, are answering.

As the complaint steadily advanced, our beloved friend's mind was preserved in great composure ; and she was strengthened to contemplate, and frequently to speak of the solemn prospect, which was shortening in perspective before her, with a holy calmness, humbly confiding in the mercy of her Redeemer, in whom was all her trust.

In a letter dated 8th month, 12th, 1841, she thus expresses her pious resignation : "It is a great comfort that at present I can look forward without anxiety. It would be very pleasant to feel well once again ; but suffering may be needful, and it is sweet to repose entirely on the Fatherly tenderness and compassion of the God of love. "

We are now arrived at the period when our beloved sufferer became wholly confined to her couch or her bed. Patience and sweet peace followed her thither ; and shed a hallowed influence about her. On the 24th of 10th month, after her husband had read to her the fifteenth chapter of the First of Corinthians, a sweet season of silence ensued. She remarked, that it had been her particular wish the preceding day, to hear that chapter ; -- that she had been much comforted by it ; -- that for the last few days she had been favoured to feel, as she had not for a long time before, in the possession of so large a measure of heavenly peace; adding, with much tenderness of spirit, that all clouds seemed now to be rolled away.

10th month, 29th. In conversation with her husband, she said: "I feel almost afraid I am encouraging a false calm ; it seems so marvellous, I should feel as I do ; but through all my trials and conflicts, I have never felt my trust shaken. All fear of death is taken away, and all anxiety, as to whether my illness be more or less lingering."

On the 10th of 12th month, she said : " I fear I shall weary you out ; it is heavy getting along. " Her husband said, he hoped she did not feel her confidence in her Saviour fail. She replied: " I have no doubt in regard to the atonement, or to my interest in it, but there is so much impatience, such a want of meetness for heaven, that the remarks of some of our friends, who seem to think I have attained to a higher state than is the case, are trying to me; "

12th month, 13th. She remarked: "I cannot converse ; I cannot be even cheerful. " It was replied, that it was thought she was cheerful ; that liveliness was not to be expected ; and that there was no complaining. She said ; " Not at the bottom ; but it should not seem to be even on the surface. " To one of her brothers she remarked : "I have been little able to realize the prospect before me. I have nothing but an humble trust in the mercy of our Lord and Saviour. It has been truly the valley of humiliation. "

12th month, 20th. The dear invalid expressed herself discouraged from feeling so much spiritual deadness, without capacity to raise more than a prayer for patience ; that if it were not for an abiding hope in her Saviour, which she described as being like a bright star in the midst of the darkness, and which she could only regard as the Star of Bethlehem, she should be quite cast down. But that, on this, her eye was constantly fixed, and it cheered her gloomiest hours.

Her interest in the school family remained unabated ; and even in this season of weakness, the dear children were not forgotten. "If," she said, "in some simple way it can be done, I wish they may be informed, that I have often thought of them during the late visitation of sickness, [alluding to the scarlet fever which had been prevalent] with desires that they may be sufficiently impressed, and duly instructed by the solemn circumstances which have happened. Death has been presented to them under several forms ; and in the case of their schoolfellows, it has been preceded by short illnesses. Perhaps many may think, I have had a long time to prepare, and may presume upon long illnesses ; but I wish them to know, that my long illness would have been of no avail to me, if I had postponed a preparation for death till I was laid upon a sick bed, I should have had no opportunity ; for I have not been able to fix my thoughts, through weakness of the body. "

The last few days of her life were attended with much suffering from sickness and extreme exhaustion ; and she more than once exclaimed: "Oh ! this cannot last long ; nature must sink under suffering like this." She frequently clasped her hands in the attitude of prayer ; and from the words, -- "Take me, take me," which were repeatedly heard, it was evident, she supplicated to be released. She was preserved in mental clearness throughout.

On fifth day morning, the 20th of 1st month, a rapid change took place ; and, in about a quarter of an hour, her purified and redeemed spirit was released from its suffering tenement, and was received, we doubt not, into that prepared mansion, that purchased possession, which is the inheritance of the Lord's redeemed children.

In early life Henry Richardson passed through a period of spiritual doubt, and his attachment to the Society of Friends was somewhat disturbed. Divine grace and the wise counsels of his father were helpful in this time of difficulty, and he was completely re-established on the true foundation.

HENRY & ISAAC RICHARDSON

GROCERS, TEA DEALERS, &C.,

NO. 4, UNION STREET (HEAD OF CLOTH-MARKET),

IN entering upon the Business lately carried on by their Father, beg Leave respectfully to state, that as their Goods will be purchased on the most advantageous Terms, and with strict Attention to Quality, they hope by Assiduity and Care in the Execution of Orders, to merit a Share of Public Patronage.

The Markets for Tea, Sugar, Spices, and Grocery Goods in general, have of late been more favourable for making Purchases, than for many Years past. Coffees have risen considerably, but H. & I. R. bought freely before the advance; and they have laid in such an Assortment of these and other Articles, as they trust will give entire Satisfaction to their Customers.

The LEATHER BUSINESS will be carried on in future distinct from the Grocery, in the back Premises; Entrance by the second Door in the Yard.

Newcastle upon Tyne, 9th Month 29th, 1831.

. . . they became closely attached and earnest members of the Society; and, though in later life prevented by physical disabilities from the attendance of meetings for Discipline and larger gatherings, they accepted the offices of Overseer and Elder, and maintained a bright and helpful intercourse with their fellow-members, manifesting a warm interest in those who joined the Society from the working-classes

H. & I. RICHARDSON,

GROCERS AND TEA DEALERS,

NO. 4, UNION-STREET,

BEG to present their grateful Acknowledgements to their Friends and the Public for the kind Support they have received since commencing Business, and have now to announce that they have this Day amicably DISSOLVED PARTNERSHIP.

The Business will in Future be carried on by HENRY RICHARDSON, who hopes, by a careful Selection of Goods, and Punctuality in executing Orders, to merit a continuance of Public Patronage. The Family Branch of the Business having considerably increased of late, H.R. has made Arrangements to enable him to devote a more close Attention to that Department. The following Articles are confidently recommended to Notice:—

H. and A. Richardson were always warm adherents of the Anti-Slavery Society. The arrival of Frederick Douglas in England in 1845, and his eloquent appeals on behalf of his suffering people and the negro race, led to an increased effort for their liberation. This brought them into communication with the foremost heroes in the strife that agitated England on that question, and entailed an amount of correspondence of which the present generation are little aware. In conjunction with their sister, Ellen Richardson, they were instrumental in effecting the legal freedom of Frederick Douglas by purchase from his master, Hugh Auld . . .

TO FARMERS AND BREEDERS OF STOCK.

ON SALE,

A QUANTITY of BROKEN SAGO, suitable for Feeding. Price 14s. per Cwt.

HENRY RICHARDSON, GROCER and TEA DEALER, NO. 4, UNION-STREET, nearly opposite the Corn Market, Newcastle.

wrote to the Quaker newspaper The British Friend pointing out the inconsistency of rejecting slave-grown sugar while accepting slave-grown cotton. The argument of those willing to do so was the insufficiency of free-grown cotton to replace it. Free grown cotton was available in Liverpool but its inferior quality would necessitate its 'working up' with better quality produce. Newcastle had "three extensive manufacturing firms" ready to work up the cotton "as soon as it shall arrive in sufficient Quantities to enable them to keep it distinct without loss." A free-labour warehouse was needed in London and he asked, "can our London Friends turn their attention to the supply of this desiderata?"

. . . A.H.R. writes:—"The summer of 1849 was a memorable one, for we joined a large party from England in attending the Peace Congress at Paris.

"Previous to this our minds had been much drawn to the importance of the Holy Scriptures being more largely circulated amongst the people. After returning home the subject rested much with us, and we consulted the French Consul, as to the possibility of gaining access to France with that object in view. He said he felt sure it could be done, but 'Go yourselves,' he added, 'and make the distribution a personal one'" Continuing the narrative, she says :—"It seemed best to follow his advice. The needful money was readily given by kind friends, and 2,000 copies of the New Testament were specially bound, with a suitable inscription in each for presentation."

The following spring H. and A. Richardson set out, accompanied by their cousin, Ann Richardson (now Foster) and Eliza Nichol, and they had the great satisfaction of distributing the books themselves. The Testaments were gratefully received by all parties, many of them in high stations.

Henry Richardson was much concerned for the welfare of the ragged children frequenting the streets, and promoted the establishment of a Boys' Ragged School. This has since been developed into an Industrial School for both boys and girls. H. and A. Richardson were also pioneers in the establishment of cheap Temperance Refreshment Rooms.

Henry Richardson may be said to have inherited a personal interest in the work of Bible distribution. The Newcastle Bible Society was organised very shortly after the parent institution, and his father, George Richardson, to whose business he succeeded, was for many years its mainstay, having the depôt on his shop premises, and voluntarily undertaking all the labours of depositary. Brought up thus in the midst of this active interest, the son imbibed the father's zeal, and as the strength of the latter failed, he took the responsible charge. Soon after his retirement from business, in 1858, the depôt was removed to a more conspicuous habitation, and there H. Richardson continued to attend regularly, making the work of the Society the business of his life.

It is said that 'He ordered the books, he unpacked them, and placed them in the depot. He attended their sale, and distributed them among the branch associations. He kept the accounts of the Society, and carried on its business correspondence. He arranged the Annual meetings of many of the district associations, and whilst health and strength lasted, was never backward in attending them; in truth, during the whole fifty-two years of the existence of the Society, he has been the mainspring of its energy, the chief agent, under God, of its success.'

Anna and Henry Richardson of Newcastle mobilized the Quaker network to support [Henry Highland] Garnet and his campaign to free the enslaved Weims family. In 1851, they brought Garnet, his wife Julia, and their daughter Stella (whom they had adopted from the Weims family) to Britain for an extensive lecture tour—a pivotal moment for British abolitionism.

HENRY RICHARDSON,

GROCER, TEA DEALER, &c.

48, CLOTH MARKET, NEWCASTLE-ON-TYNE,

PRESENTS his grateful acknowledgements to his Friends and the Public, for the kind support extended to him during the past Twenty-four years, and begs to announce that he has taken into Partnership his Nephew, THOMAS PUMPHREY, who has had the advantage of several years' experience in one of the largest and best conducted Retail Establishments in the North of England.

HENRY RICHARDSON & CO.

RESPECTFULLY solicit a continuance of public Patronage for a Concern which has existed for about a Century, and which they intend to conduct on the same Principles that have hitherto secured for it the Favour of its numerous Connexions.

H.R. & Co. have every Confidence in calling Attention to their present Stock of TEAS, COFFEES, and general GROCERIES, selected with the greatest care from the best Markets, and they hope by a punctual attention to Orders, and by supplying their customers with strictly genuine Articles, at the lowest Prices consistent with Purity and Excellence, to Merit the extended Patronage of a discriminating Public.

Newcastle, 1st of 6th Month, 1855.

HENRY RICHARDSON AND CO.,

GROCERS AND TEA DEALERS,

48, CLOTH MARKET, NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE,

Respectfully inform their Friends and the Public that the PARTNERSHIP between H. RICHARDSON and T. PUMPHREY has been amicably DISSOLVED.

H. RICHARDSON tenders his grateful acknowledgments for the kind Support he has had during the past Twenty-seven Years, and earnestly solicits a continuance of the same on behalf of his Nephew, THOMAS PUMPHREY, by whom the Business will, in future, be conducted.

wrote to the British & Foreign Anti-Slavery Society commenting that the Newcastle Anti-Slavery and Emancipation Societies seemed to be extinct and the bulk of the anti-slavery work had fallen on Anna's shoulder for a long time, and reporting that that they had dispatched 20 barrels, bales etc. to New York and hoped to forward another consignment shortly, for the aid of slaves newly freed by the end of the American Civil War.

A letter was read from Mr. Henry Richardson, of Newcastle, addressed to Mrs. Benson, kindly asking the Assembly to give some recognition of the jubilee of the emancipation of the West Indian slaves; urging, if possible, that on Sunday next the ministers occupying the various pulpits in the neighbourhood should, if not devoting their entire discourses to the subject, at least make some allusion to it.

To Miss Ellen Richardson

With the respect, esteem, and most grateful regards of the author and as a token of his sentiments towards her, as the friend & benefactress, through whose active benevolence, he [Frederick Douglass] was ransomed from American Slavery. 1860.

FREDERICK DOUGLASS has just paid a brief visit to Newcastle. During the few days he was amongst us, he was the guest of Miss ELLEN RICHARDSON.

DEATH OF MISS RICHARDSON, OF NEWCASTLE.

On Sunday, at her home at Rye-hill, Newcastle, there died a venerable lady long known and highly esteemed in the North—Miss Ellen Richardson. She was the daughter of Mr Geo. Richardson, who was known for years as a patriarchal minister of the Society of Friends, and who was also the mainstay of the Newcastle Bible Society. Miss Ellen Richardson largely aided her father in the philanthropic work he delighted in at Newcastle, and especially at Cullercoats, and for many years gave time, talent, and money to the causes of education, of temperance, and of the anti-slavery movement, long before they were popular. Miss Richardson was born in Newcastle in 1809.

DEATH OF MISS RICHARDSON, OF NEWCASTLE.

Yesterday, at her home at Rye Hill, Newcastle, there died a venerable lady long known and highly esteemed in the North—Miss Ellen Richardson. She was the daughter of Mr Geo. Richardson, who was known for years as a patriarchal minister of the Society of Friends, and who was also the mainstay of the Newcastle Bible Society. Miss Ellen Richardson largely aided her father in the philanthropic work he delighted in at Newcastle, and especially at Cullercoats, and for many years gave time, talent, and money to the causes of education, of temperance, and of the anti-slavery movement, long before they were popular. She had been educated at Ackworth, and having a wide circle of friends, used her influence for the promotion especially of the anti-slavery agitation; and hence arose the incident which made her best known publicly. In 1845 Frederick Douglass, then a "slave," visited England, and as he desired to return to America, Ellen Richardson and her sister-in-law, Anna Richardson, purchased his freedom from his "master," Hugh Auld. Down to the time of his recent death, Frederick Douglass corresponded with his liberators, and retained the liveliest gratitude for their kindly interest in him. All the parties to that "sale" and "purchase" are now deceased. Miss Richardson was born in Newcastle in 1809. At her advanced age she had of late years necessarily withdrawn from the public education and temperance work in which she delighted; but her interest in it remained to the last, and her large circle of relatives and friends had constant and pleasant remembrance of her mental activity and philanthropic vigour. Gradually, during the last few days, the ailments of old age manifested themselves, and she finally passed peacefully away to her rest.

A Local Philanthropist

Yesterday morning, the remains of the late Miss Ellen Richardson were interred in Elswick Cemetery. In the death of this lady Newcastle has lost a citizen of no ordinary worth and ability. Miss Richardson early recognised it as her duty to do what she could to leave the world better than she found it. When she began her philanthropic labours, many abuses that have now been swept away were rampant. Slavery was then almost a British institution. It required a concession of twenty millions of the national funds to rid England of that blot. When that was done, no time was lost in an effort to clear the United States of practically the same iniquity. America sent to England some men able to plead the cause of the negro race with rare oratorical power, and conspicuous among these was the bondman whom Miss Richardson succeeded in emancipating. Frederick Douglass amply vindicated his claim to the possession of himself. It was, however, as an educationist that Ellen Richardson was distinguished. When about seventeen, she began the work in which she never lost an interest. The culture of the people was then "going on at a snail's pace." But gradually the pace quickened, and among those who largely contributed to this in Newcastle was the gifted lady whose remains were yesterday consigned to the tomb. The work on "The Principles of Training in Elementary Schools" which Miss Richardson published twenty-two years ago, is distinguished by great acuteness, and manifests remarkable powers of observation. This book urges the importance of the culture of intellect, emotion, and imagination. It might not be amiss were modern instructors occasionally to glance at its pages. There was nothing more delightful than the sustained enthusiasm with which Ellen Richardson contemplated the great work of her life in memory's moonlight. All her powers were consecrated to the elevation of the people, and before the phrase was invented "the enthusiasm of humanity" gave a sweetness and light to labours that will be long remembered by those who had the honour to know one who was a truly saintly woman.

We are very, very sorry to hear of dear Cousin Ellen's death. I believe she is the last proper Quakeress in Newcastle, & the last who wore the Quaker's dress, & she was so splendid.

ELLEN RICHARDSON, 87             26 4mo. 1896.

" Tell me wherein thy great strength lieth " is an enquiry suggested by the contemplation of the life and work of this devoted labourer.

The twenty little volumes of "Heart Communings" and "Prayers" left by Ellen Richardson answer this question, and reveal the secret of her strength ; for like a tree whose roots are struck deep down to the hidden spring, she sought and found that sustaining grace which was sufficient for her daily need.

She was born in 1808, and was the daughter of George and Eleanor Richardson, to whose Christian training, example, and prayers, she ever felt she owed so much.

She never quitted Newcastle for any other permanent residence. She often spoke of her school-days at Ackworth as a time of Spartan discipline ; but probably the training received there helped in the formation of her self-reliant character, and enabled her to endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. This very strength of character made it difficult for her to yield her judgment to that of others, and at times brought her into much conflict and deep searching of heart.

In reviewing her early years she wrote in 1883:— "It was a long time before I came to my Saviour experimentally, as I longed to do. Thanks be to Him through eternity, He hath taught me to believe in Him, and in this blessed experimental belief to find rest to my soul. What shall I render to Thee, O Lord, for all Thy benefits ? "

The memoranda, commenced in her seventeenth year, record the passing events of her daily life, its perplexities, and its trials, tracing the steps by which her heart was gradually brought under the power of heavenly love. In perusing these records, the following lines occur as appropriate to her :—

"Bitter was the daily conflict

    Which thou hadst with hidden foes,

And intense the aspirations

    Which so often heavenward rose

For sustaining grace to aid thee

    Till the life-long strife shall close."

The extensive acquaintance with Friends up and down the country which her father formed in the course of his religious journeys led to his house being made the resort of many ministers, when travelling in the service of the Gospel. The home house was also the centre of numerous philanthropic agencies, which helped to extend E. Richardson's sympathies and interests in different directions from those in which she herself was specially engaged.

Domestic bereavements followed one another in quick succession during her earlier womanhood. In 1840 her brother Isaac's state of health necessitated a visit to the Isle of Wight. She was his devoted companion during the long journey and anxious illness, which terminated in his death at Ventnor, far away from all their immediate friends. Two years later, after a lingering illness, her only sister, Rachel Pumphrey, passed away at Ackworth School, which had been her home since the winter of 1834. This heavy loss introduced E. Richardson into near sympathy with her brother-in-law, Thomas Pumphrey, in his responsible position as Superintendent of the school : and it drew out her heart's deep feelings towards his four motherless children, to whom she long extended much tender care. In 1846 she was bereft of her beloved mother, and thenceforward, for sixteen years, it was her joy to care for and comfort her father, whose bright and useful life was prolonged into his eighty-ninth year.

The agitation which so deeply stirred the sympathies of England on behalf of the West Indian slaves found in Ellen Richardson, in common with so many Friends, a warm supporter. Most of the fugitives who sought "refuge in this country from slavery in the Southern States were practically helped by the Friends of Newcastle-on-Tyne ; and at her own initiation, warmly aided by her brother and sister, Henry and Anna Richardson, the money was collected wherewith the freedom was purchased of William Wells Brown, and also of Frederick Douglass, who became so powerful and eloquent an instrument in pleading for his people. The warm appreciation of this noble man—this true "gentleman of colour "—is plainly evidenced by the numerous letters which he continued to write to E. Richardson, almost to the day of his death, shortly before her own, in which he makes constant allusion to the important part she had taken in lifting him up from the condition of the poor slave-boy to that of "United States Marshal for the District of Columbia."

But the life-work of Ellen Richardson, to which she set her hand only four years after leaving Ackworth School, was the education of the daughters of the working-classes of her native town. The Royal Jubilee School for Girls "followed the establishment of a similar school for boys, to mark in a more permanent way than by a brief illumination of the town by candles and oil-lamps, the fiftieth anniversary of George the Third's accession to the throne. This school had been commenced by a few practical philanthropists in association with her father, and she was not slow to throw her own energies into its management. This she continued with untiring zeal and patience, until its doors were closed in 1884. She was not content with guiding the general arrangements, but she personally assisted in the classes, giving lessons herself, especially in Scripture and in reading—two subjects in which the children particularly excelled. She felt that upon Bible teaching, and a high standard of moral and Christian life, much of the success of all educational work must depend.

To the teachers she was an invaluable helper ; and the "Jubilee School" gradually became the training ground for young teachers, whose studies she personally superintended. She impressed upon them the true meaning of education, and would not tolerate any mere mechanical teaching. Her book, entitled "Principles of Training," was written under a strong sense of duty, and she was truly a leader in the elementary education of girls. In this way her influence extended to other places ; not only the surrounding colliery villages, but far and wide, wherever her trainees were placed in charge. It was one of the joys of her declining years to receive calls from some of these young women, with whom she maintained correspondence, and a warm personal influence and friendship. One of her former pupils wrote, on hearing of her death "I remember very vividly the great delight she took in explaining the Scriptures to us, and exhorting us to let the Bible be our guide through life."

One of the teachers says—"I shall never forget her and the many lessons she has taught. Truly the world is better for her life. There are many, very many, of her scholars who will remember her as long as they live." Another writes of her as "The helpful guide of my youth, the loving, sympathetic friend of later years."

In 1860 "the Schools and Charities Committee " of the City Council requested her to organize and superintend their "St. Mary's School" ; and for many years the two institutions were carried on by herself and her lady-colleagues under similar management.

From her early days the little fishing village of Cullercoats was the frequent resort of her father and his family, and they were often joined by her dearly-loved cousin Ann Richardson, afterwards Ann R. Foster. Here they became warmly interested in the welfare of the fishermen and their families, making personal friendships with some, and winning the confidence of all. They soon found how great was the need for an infant school, so that the little ones might be cared for while their mothers were away in the neighbouring towns selling fish. A school-house was accordingly built, and the lowest age of admission was fixed at eighteen months. Toys and mattresses were provided, and this Crêche-school became almost a unique institution. It was not long before it developed, by natural growth, into a general elementary school for boys and girls. As the numbers increased the building was enlarged, and many of the inhabitants of to-day have grown up to thank "Miss Ellen" and "Miss Ann" and their coadjutors for their assiduous and watchful care.

Ellen Richardson's interest in these fisher folk was maintained to the end of her life, and in her old age she welcomed them to her house in Rye Hill, enjoying their hymn-singing, and cheering them with her practical advice and sympathy. In her recent visits to Cullercoats she would call at their cottages in her Bath-chair entering into their pursuits, and endeavouring to alleviate their trials.

Ellen Richardson followed with watchful interest the passage of Wm. E. Forster's Education Bill, corresponding with him as to its provisions. For several years the Schools under her care were worked under Government inspection, until the rigid requirements of "the code" proved to be incompatible with her long cherished views, and the time came for her to relinquish her charge. So the doors of these Schools were reluctantly closed, where for so long a period her commanding presence in her Friends' bonnet had been so familiar a figure. She seemed to have been born to rule ; her word was law, but it was the law of love. She inculcated the principle of "no rewards "—except the reward which right actions bring, and virtually "no punishment." Excellent discipline was maintained ; her marked individuality dominated the school, for she had the power of infusing her own spirit into those about her. By endeavouring to place her girls on the true foundation, she sought to equip them, intellectually and morally, for their future positions as domestic servants, teachers, wives and mothers of families, or in whatsoever sphere of life their lot might be cast.

Though deeply attached to the Society of Friends, during much of her life Ellen Richardson felt that her line of service lay mainly outside its borders. She held for a short time the responsible position of Elder, but her increasing deafness made it difficult for her to discharge its duties effectually, and she withdrew from the office. She was diligent in her attendance at meetings for worship and discipline so long as her strength permitted ; and when confined mostly to her house, her heart often went up in prayer during meeting time, on behalf of her friends, and she manifested an earnest interest in the spiritual life of the congregation. Her prayer for the widely extending family circle stands recorded in one of her note-books— "Gather us as a family to Thyself, Oh Heavenly Father, that not one may be wanting in that great day of account."

By the sudden death of her brother George in 1865, E. Richardson had been left alone in the old family house in Albion Street. She felt this bereavement intensely, as her note-book thus records—"I am left behind, a lonely pilgrim, to finish my earthly journey without one by my side to cheer and comfort me" ; but adding a little later—"I have been sweetly sustained. Yes, God can bear up His children, even in the midst of the billows.["]

She soon afterwards removed to a house where she was nearer to her beloved cousins Robert and Ann Foster, and other members of the family circle, where she greatly enjoyed visits from the remaining friends of her early days, correspondence with whom was one of the especially valued alleviations of her solitary life. Here she continued, sadly noting the removal by death, one after another, of her old companions, until, with-the exception of Robert Foster, she was left the sole survivor of her generation. Nevertheless, her lonely hours were greatly enlivened by her intercourse with her numerous relatives of the succeeding generation, in whose pursuits she took a deep interest. Her reading too was comprehensive. She was careful what she read, but both in general literature and in the writings of earnest men of other denominations, she endeavoured to keep her mind abreast of modern thought, no matter how wide the circle,. if only the centre was Christ.

In her old age, E. Richardson's energies were again and again called into exercise as occasions arose. In her anxiety that the Bible should not be excluded from the Board Schools, or its teaching unduly restricted, she addressed a paper to the Northern Conference of Friends' First-day School Teachers, which resulted in a resolution which was sent to all the School Boards within the range of Durham Quarterly Meeting, urging the Boards watchfully to guard this point in all their Schools.

Under a pressing sense of the importance of total abstinence as a part of a teacher's practice as well as of class teaching, E. Richardson obtained the services of a qualified Friend to prepare a paper entitled "An address to Teachers on Temperance Instruction," which she took much pains to disseminate, especially in Board Schools. One of her last public efforts was the reprinting and wide circulation of a "National Peace Anthem" for the use of schools, so as to imbue the popular mind with the pacific spirit of Christ's Gospel.

Her memoranda contain frequent allusions to her thoughtful care for her servants, who she felt were specially committed to her trust, and earnest were her prayers for their best welfare. She received her reward in the unremitting, faithful services rendered to herself in her declining years.

For about thirty years she was troubled with a chest affection, which often greatly disturbed her rest ; and latterly she was repeatedly brought very low by other infirmities. Writing to a distant friend in view of her approaching end, she said :— "What can we do but throw ourselves on the mercy of Christ, who can cover us with His own spotless robe, and present us to the Father in heaven ; for truly,

'Nothing in my hand I bring,

Simply to Thy cross I cling.'

I can adopt this from the very bottom of my heart."

As the end drew near, a marked mellowing of her strong character was observable; but her independence was maintained to the last, and her love of managing was never lost. During her final illness her sufferings were at times intense; but through Divine grace she was enabled to bear them patiently, and to feel her Saviour's presence very near. Early on a Sabbath morning she entered into her rest, to see face to face the Saviour whom she had loved so long, and, we doubt not, to hear the gracious words :— "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, ye have done it unto Me."

HENRY & ISAAC RICHARDSON

GROCERS, TEA DEALERS, &C.,

NO. 4, UNION STREET (HEAD OF CLOTH-MARKET),

IN entering upon the Business lately carried on by their Father, beg Leave respectfully to state, that as their Goods will be purchased on the most advantageous Terms, and with strict Attention to Quality, they hope by Assiduity and Care in the Execution of Orders, to merit a Share of Public Patronage.

The Markets for Tea, Sugar, Spices, and Grocery Goods in general, have of late been more favourable for making Purchases, than for many Years past. Coffees have risen considerably, but H. & I. R. bought freely before the advance; and they have laid in such an Assortment of these and other Articles, as they trust will give entire Satisfaction to their Customers.

The LEATHER BUSINESS will be carried on in future distinct from the Grocery, in the back Premises; Entrance by the second Door in the Yard.

Newcastle upon Tyne, 9th Month 29th, 1831.

H. & I. RICHARDSON,

GROCERS AND TEA DEALERS,

NO. 4, UNION-STREET,

BEG to present their grateful Acknowledgements to their Friends and the Public, for the kind Support they have received since commencing Business, and have now to announce that they have this Day amicably dissolved Partnership.

The Business will in Future be carried on by HENRY RICHARDSON, who hopes, by a careful Selection of Goods, and Punctuality in executing Orders, to merit a continuance of Public Patronage. The Family Branch of the Business having considerably increased of late, H.R. has made Arrangements to enable him to devote a more close Attention to that Department.

The following Articles are confidently recommended to Notice.

The last will and Testament

of

Isaac Richardson

I Isaac Richardson of Albion Street in the parish of St Andrew's in the Town & County of Newcastle upon Tyne, Leather Cutter, being of sound and disposing mind memory, and understanding, but mindful of my mortality do this 20^th day of the first month in the year of our Lord 1840 make and publish this my last will and testament, in manner and form following; that is to say:—after the payment of my just debts, the expence of proving this my will, and those necessarily attendant upon my funeral and the winding up of my affairs, that all my estate, whatsoever and wheresoever and of what nature, kind, and quality soever the same may be, I give and bequeath to my dear Father George Richardson, subject to the following deductions, viz, I give and bequeath to my dear sister Ellen Twenty five shares which I at present hold in the Newcastle Union Joint Stock Banking Company, and I give and bequeath to my dear brother George two shares that I hold in the north of England Temperance Building society, and for as much as for some time past I have taken great interest in the spread of the Gospel of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ and in the promotion of His Kingdom, and the overthrow of the power of darkness, I do hereby give and bequeath fifty pounds each to the treasurers of the following societies, for the use and benefit of the said societies, premising, that the £50 to the last named Society shall be expended in such a manner as not to be inconsistent with Friends' principles, viz £50 to the British and Foreign Bible Society, £50 to the Newcastle Tee Total Society and £50 to to [sic] Baptist Missionary Society; I also bequeath Twenty Pounds to my dear brother Henry as Executor, the residue I bequeath as aforsaid to my dear father George Richardson, and I do hereby make, ordain, constitute and appoint my father George Richardson and my brother Henry Richardson aforsaid joint executors of this my last will and Testament, hereby revoking all former and other wills and Testaments by me at any time heretofore made, In witness whereof I have to this my last will and Testament, set and subscribed my hand and seal, the day and year first above written

Isaac Richardson

[Witnesses: John Bailes, James Hornsby]

At the Isle of Wight, 3rd inst., aged 29, deeply lamented by a numerous circle, where he had been for the benefit of his health, Mr Isaac Richardson, of Newcastle, one of the Society of Friends.

VENTILATION.

VENTILATION applied to Dwelling Houses, Places of Worship, School-rooms, Shops, Workshops, &c., on scientific and approved principles.—Apply to

GEORGE RICHARDSON

AGENT FOR THE

ESSEX ECONOMIC INSURANCE COMPANY,

OFFICE,—4, UNION STREET, NEAR THE CORN MARKET.

G.R. having paid considerable attention to Ventilation, hopes to introduce it successfully into Buildings, as above described. In effecting the needful alterations, especially where the nature and purpose of the Building admit, regard will be had to economy of construction and arrangement.

N.B.—The Fixing of Stoves carefully attended to.

Experienced Workmen employed.

Newcastle, 7 mo. 26, 1852

CHEAP ISSUE OF DR. KITTO'S PICTORIAL FAMILY BIBLE,

IN TWO LARGE HANDSOME QUARTO VOLUMES.

THIS Standard Work, containing upwards of EIGHT HUNDRED ENGRAVINGS, with copious Notes illustrative of the Literature and Antiquities of Sacred Scripture, is now offered for a short time at TWENTY-ONE SHILLINGS AND SIXPENCE, or HALF BOUND CALF, 28s 6d.—Apply to GEORGE RICHARDSON, Jun., Agent, 4, Union Street, Newcastle.

GEORGE RICHARDSON, JUN.,

FIRE AND LIFE INSURANCE AGENCY OFFICE,

48, CLOTH MARKET, NEWCASTLE.

(Agent to Friends' Provident Institution)

HEAD OFFICES: MANCHESTER

GEORGE RICHARDSON,

AGENT, 38, CLOTH MARKET,

AGENT FOR THE

NORTH BRITISH AND MERCANTILE

INSURANCE COMPANY,

AND

MANCHESTER FIRE OFFICE.

SUDDEN DEATH OF MR. GEORGE RICHARDSON.—We regret to have to record to-day the demise of Mr. George Richardson, an old and universally-respected inhabitant of Newcastle. This event, which was as sudden as lamented, took place yesterday, about one o'clock. It appears that the deceased, who always took a warm interest in the welfare of the Soup Kitchen, had attended the public meeting in connection with its opening. On returning, he went direct to his office in the Cloth Market, and, seeing Mr. Thomas Pumphrey, complained to him of a pain in his side. Having been unwell for some time Mr. Pumphrey thought it advisable to inform Mr. Richardson's sister, who lives at Cullercoats, and left Newcastle for that purpose. Very shortly afterwards Mr. Richardson became suddenly ill, was taken to his residence, 21, Albion Street, in a cab, and a few minutes afterwards expired. The deceased was an old tradesman of the town He formerly carried on business as a leather cutter in the Cloth Market, but has lately followed the employment of insurance agent, representing the Manchester and North British Mercantile Insurance Companies. He was a member of the Society of Friends, and took a warm and active interest in the Bible Society and other kindred and philanthropic institutions.

SUDDEN DEATH OF MR. GEORGE RICHARDSON.—We deeply regret to state that Mr. George Richardson, of this town, died very suddenly yesterday afternoon. He had been at a meeting for the purpose of re-opening the Soup Kitchen, and, feeling himself unwell, he had engaged a conveyance to take him home to his residence, in Albion Street. On arriving there he lay down upon a sofa, and immediately expired. The cause of his death is supposed to be disease of the heart. The deceased gentleman was to have been at Cullercoats yesterday afternoon, in order to be present at the handing over of the school which has been established there by his sister, Miss Richardson, and Miss Clayton, to his Grace the Duke of Northumberland, who has charged himself with its endowment to the amount of £150 a-year. The mention of these two works,—one of charity, and the other both of education and charity,—in which he was engaged yesterday will show the nature of Mr. Richardson's personal disposition. He was charitable and benevolent, and a warm supporter of the religious and charitable institutions of the town. His loss will be felt in social as well as religious circles in the town. He was of a pleasant and kindly nature, with a good deal of shrewdness and humour, that made him a pleasant companion, such as having met once one likes to meet a second time. Not only in Newcastle but throughout the Northern Counties also, he was well known; and wherever he was known he was beloved and respected. In the discharge of his avocations as a fire insurance agent, he was one of the most able men of the district. He formerly represented the Lancashire Fire Insurance Company; but at the time of his death, he was the representative of the North British and Mercantile Fire and Life Insurance Society, and of the Manchester Fire Office. He thoroughly understood the business of fire and life insurance; and in this respect his death will be felt as a very great loss to the world of insurance. The deceased was the son of Mr. Geo. Richardson, who died in this town, a year or two ago, at a very patriarchal age, and who took so great an interest in the Newcastle Bible Society. The interest taken in that society by the father was continued by the son; and in him that and many other religious and charitable institutions have lost a warm friend and active supporter.

ANOTHER SUDDEN DEATH IN NEWCASTLE.—Sudden deaths have lately been of frequent occurrence in Newcastle. To-day, we are called upon to add another to the melancholy list, in the person of Mr. George Richardson, insurance agent, who expired suddenly at his residence, in Cloth Market, yesterday afternoon. In the course of the morning, he had been engaged in charitable duty at the Soup Kitchen, in the Manors, and feeling unwell he proceeded to his house. Scarcely had he seated himself on the sofa, when serious symptoms presented themselves, and in a few minutes the unfortunate gentleman had ceased to exist. Mr. Richardson was well known and greatly respected, not only in Newcastle, but indeed over the whole of the counties of Northumberland and Durham, while his genial and kindly disposition endeared him to all who enjoyed his acquaintance. For several years, Mr. Richardson officiated as agent on connection with the Lancashire Fire Insurance office, but latterly he transferred his services to the North British and Mercantile Fire and Life Insurance Company, and the Manchester Fire Office, both of which he represented at the time of his death. With the details of insurance, in all its branches, he was intimately familiar; but the fire department was that in which he took especial interest, and in the transactions of which he was recognised as no mean authority. The deceased gentleman was in his fiftieth year, and his sudden demise will be regretted by a large circle of friends, and by none more so than by those who had the benefit of his energetic business habits. The cause of death appears to have been disease of the heart. Mr. Richardson, we may add, was the son of Mr. George Richardson, the esteemed philanthropist, who died a year or two ago, at the advanced age of eighty-eight.

GEORGE RICHARDSON,      51    3  3 mo. 1865

Newcastle-on-Tyne.

In the midst of an active and useful life, this dear friend was struck down by the disease which, in little more than an hour, terminated in death. He had risen that morning as usual, and partaken of his breakfast with relish, after which he read to the servants the 116th and 117th Psalms. he then proceeded to his little garden, and after working there for half-an-hour, and subsequently transacting some business in his office, he went to the soup-kitchen, to assist at its re-opening. Here he was seized with pain in his breast, and shortly afterwards was conveyed home, where, in about a half-an-hour, he ceased to breathe. His brother having left the room for a minute or two, to procure a medical book (the doctor not having arrived) on returning found that the vital spark had fled; the peaceful countenance denoting that the conflict had not been severe.

How loudly do events like these proclaim to us, "Be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh." How plainly such dispensations of Divine Providence show the sovereignty of God, and lay man's wisdom and power prostrate in the dust; for the Lord's ways are not as our ways, nor His thoughts as our thoughts. They teach us, indeed, the humbling truth that we know not what a day or an hour may bring forth, and that in him alone we have life and breath, and all things; but they have no tendency to shake the blessed assurance of those who, in the spirit of adoption, can call God "Father," and put their whole trust in Him. Such, it is believed, was, in a large degree, the happy experience of the subject of this notice.

From early life, he greatly enjoyed the privilege of attending all the meetings for worship and discipline within his reach, and it appears that for nearly thirty years an impression had rested upon his mind that he should one day be called so speak publicly as a minister of the Gospel. After much conflict of mind, he eventually yielded to this conviction of duty. An impediment in his speech to some extent increased his difficulty; but it is worthy of remark, that in his ministry this obstacle was almost, if not entirely removed, and his communications were often attended with much weight and power. Salvation by and through Christ appeared to be the end and aim of his preaching, and great was his earnestness and fervent his aspirations that all mankind might be brought to a saving knowledge of their Lord.

He was deeply sensible of his own sinfulness and unworthiness, and of his utter helplessness in himself, but he had also largely tasted that the Lord is gracious and full of compassion to the penitent sinner. Having come himself to the fountain set open for sin and for uncleanness, and having herein experienced his sins to be washed away, he felt called to plead with others, with all the earnestness of which he was capable, that they also might become partakers of the like precious blessing. Within the last year or two of his life especially, and often through very deep discouragement, he seemed to feel that he had a work to do for his Lord, and that his own time was short. Faithfully, therefore, did he seek to yield himself up to the service which, he believed, was required at his hands.

He has left behind him a somewhat voluminous journal, commenced in the twenty-first year of his age, but we are unable, from want of room, to give more than a passing allusion to it. Besides indicating the depth of his convictions with regard to the great truths of the Gospel, and the conflicts and joys which marked his inner life, these memoranda show the different steps, by the taking of which he was prepared for that more public service of his Lord, on which he entered but a comparatively short time before he was called from the church militant to the church triumphant.

It was God's "love in Christ Jesus; His sufferings, His agonising conflict; all for us," that constrained him to say, "Here am I; send me." "Open Thou my lips, and my mouth shall show forth Thy praise." Then came the "very solemn feelings that the prospect of such service" raised in his mind, and the "fervent and strong desires, lest dishonour should be brought on the precious cause of truth" through him, with longings "for more and more purity of life and conversation, which would accord with the solemn calling." Then we seem able to trace increased diligence in such work as his hands found to do, as among his scholars in the First-day school, whilst his soul was often poured out before the Lord on behalf of those with whom he was connected in religious fellowship. As his path became plain, he yielded to what he believed to be his duty, and have very gratefully to acknowledge "that truly the Lord is a good Master, and gives to His servants, who seek to do His will, wages, such as this world can never afford."

The last notice in G. R.'s diary is dated Eleventh month, 14th, 1864, and has reference to an apprehension he had some time entertained, that it was required of him to pay a visit, "in the love of the Gospel," to the Monthly Meetings of Pardshaw, Allendale, and Carlisle. His not being certified as a minister presented peculiar difficulties with regard to this journey, but after close examination of his own heart, though deeply conscious of his unworthiness, he felt unable to rest without offering himself for the work. He therefore conferred with some friends of his own Monthly Meeting, and, with their encouragement, he proceeded to the accomplishment of this little service. He gratefully appreciated the kindness of the friends whom he visited, who failed not to make way for him in attending the meetings held in usual course.

On his return home, he complained of feeling unwell, but this indisposition seemed to have passed away, and his accustomed cheerfulness returned. A few weeks afterwards, however, as has been stated, he was suddenly called away (may we not confidently believe) to hear, through adorable mercy, those words of welcome he had so fervently coveted: "Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things. Enter thou into the joy of the Lord."