I have often felt a motion of love to leave some hints in writing of my experience of the goodness of God, and now, in the thirty-sixth year of my age, I begin this work.

If a man successful in business expends a part of his income in things of no real use, while the poor employed by him pass through difficulties in getting the necessaries of life, this requires his serious attention.

The care of a wise and good man for his only son is inferior to the regard of the great Parent of the universe for his creatures.

Be careful that the love of gain draw us not into any business which may weaken our love of our Heavenly Father, or bring unnecessary trouble to any of His creatures.

By the breaking in of enraged merciless armies, flourishing countries have been laid waste, great numbers of people have perished in a short time, and many more have been pressed with poverty and grief.

Now to act with integrity, according to that strength of mind and body with which our creator hath endowed each of use, appears necessary for all.

I was born in Northampton, in Burlington County, West Jersey, in the year 1720.