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Irs 7 s -oy mie 7 7 7 os - = bs sa . - ae *. . - - a ed 7 ” . " Ps Pee . i - * = BOOK THE LIBRARY HAVERFORD COLLEGE THE GIFT OF LM ESSION NO mY a ae ers, ri 2 iA +4 = vr? 3 _ ” , - . © a as 2s a sy _ ws ‘ . » ae . ~< e > e Seg . ° a in. » ° ~~ ® =* - - > ’ % 7 - => - * _ CONSTITUTION ADDRESS OF THE BEB ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS Xu Awevica. PHILADELPHIA: TY. A. CONRAD, PRINTER, NO. 32 CHURCH ALLEY. Shy at Oy cane! iy Rwy 1p LIBRARY, | ‘« N. 16TH STREET, PHILAD SPR“. hy 92 Hagel? pe * v\ \ “~® * / ". * ow J ‘ £ “J ©¢7P * ‘ ~ ? 2 ain Sorw:. > ee Fe 4 Da . * . 7 1 om o a i iv ™ ~) ee i Fee - “s peo wa f ‘* en tts ta o> ADDRESS TO THE MEMBERS OF THE RELIGIOUS SOCIETY OF FRIENDS InN AMERICA. | AMONG the many important testimonies which the faithful members of our Religious Society have always borne, and which the mournful events of our own times have rendered peculiarly dear to us, is that to the authen- ticity, authority, and inestimable value of the Holy Scrip- tures. We have always held them to be “the only fit outward judge and test in matters of faith and doctrine.” We believe, to adopt the language used on one occasion by George Fox, ‘that they were given forth by the Holy Spirit of God;” ‘that they are to be read, believed and fulfilled (he that fulfils them is Christ) and they are pro- fitable for reproof, for correction, for instruction in right- eousness, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works, and are able to make wise unto salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.” Every sin- cere Christian must regard them as the best of books, and their unimpaired preservation to the present day as a com- passionate providence of the Almighty. The historical fact cannot be denied, that vital piety has no where, and in no age, continued to mark the character of a people by whom these invaluable records have been neglected. Our Society, while it has always been careful to declare its full belief in the sacredness and authority, has never ceased to impress upon its members the necessity of a care- ful, serious and habitual perusal of the Holy Scriptures. The advices and epistles of the Yearly Meeting of London recommend the practice in the most earnest manner; as the following extracts, the substance of which is contained 4 in the discipline of all the Yearly Meetings, will fully tes- tify; viz. 1723.—*‘ Inasmuch as the Holy Scriptures are the ex- ternal means of conveying and preserving to us, an account of the things most surely to be believed, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in the flesh, and the ful- filling of the prophecies relating thereto, we therefore recommend to all Friends, especially elders in the church, and masters of families, that they would, both by example and advice, impress on the minds of the younger, a rev- erent esteem of those sacred writings, and advise them to a frequent reading and meditating therein.” 1732—** We tenderly and earnestly advise and exhort all parents and masters of families, that they exert them- selves in the wisdom of God, and in the strength of his love, to instruct their children and families in the doctrines and precepts of the christian religion contained in the Holy Scriptures, and that they excite them to the diligent reading of those sacred writings, which plainly set forth the miraculous conception, birth, holy life, wonderful works, blessed example, meritorious death, and glorious resurrection, ascension, and mediation of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ: and to educate their children in the belief of these important truths, as well as in the belief of the inward manifestation and operation of the Spirit of God on their own minds, that they may reap the benefit ’ and advantage thereof, for their own peace and everlasting happiness, which is infinitely preferable to all other con- siderations. We therefore exhort, in the most earnest manner, that all be very careful in this respect; a neglect herein being, in our judgment, very blameworthy.” 5 1740.—** And, dear friends, as much as in you lies, encourage a frequent and diligent reading of the Holy Scriptures in your families. In them are contained the promises of eternal life and salvation. For, as a steady trust and belief in the promises of God, and a frequent meditation in the law of the Lord, were the preservation of a remnant in old time, so it is even to this day. And, as a distrust and disbelief of the promises of God, and a neglect of his holy law, were the occasion of the complaints made against the Jews, the posterity of Abraham; even so we have reason to fear that the apparent declension, in our time, of true piety and godly zeal, in many places, is too much owing to a disregard of the doctrines of the Ho- ly Scriptures, and the promises of the Holy Spirit in them recorded.” 1743.—“ We think it especially necessary at this time, to remind you of the former advices of this meeting, res- pecting a frequent and diligent reading of the Holy Scrip- tures: the doctrines contained in these inspired writings, duly attended to, and firmly impressed upon the minds of our young people, may be a means of preserving them from the danger and infection of such corrupt and irreli- gious principles, as, having a tendency to the exaltation of self and human abilities, would lessen their dependence on the power and Spirit of God, their only security and preservation.” Yet, notwithstanding the care which has thus been ex- ercised, it is believed that some portions of our Society ‘on this continent, have been, and still are, but scantily supplied with copies of the Bible. This is, no doubt, to be attributed, originally, to the peculiar situation of the 6 first settlers in a new country, struggling with hardships, and often without the means of obtaining any thing beyond the supply of their mere physical wants. It is according- ly in the newly settled and remote districts that the defi- ciency is the most obvious and lamentable. In some older and more populous neighbourhoods also, where these privations are no longer felt, the same deficiency in the proper supply of the Scriptures is to be regretted. A single copy, and that of an unwieldy size, is often all that is to be found in a large family. It is not probable, where such is the case, that the rising generation will make the Scriptures their study and delight, nor can any other con- sequence be expected from it, than a prevalent indifference to, as well as ignorance of, the historical facts, doctrines and precepts contained in Scripture. Friends in the min- istry, who have travelled extensively through America, bear witness of the deficiency to which we have adverted ; the natural effects of which, have been such as were to be anticipated. We have all witnessed with sorrow, the delusion which has drawn so many into a denial of the divinity, propitiation and mediation of our Lord and Sa- viour Jesus Christ. Shall we not then, while the mourn- ful events of the few past years are fresh in our recollec- tion and still present with us, endeavour to guard against their recurrence, as far as can be done by the means which are within our power? One of these, we are persuaded, is a more general and accurate acquaintance with the Holy Seriptures, and a more diligent and frequent perusal of them, both in the closet and in families. Itis believed that no outward means, would, under the divine blessing, have a more powerful tendency to check the growing spirit of levity and scepticism, so obvious amongst many of the youth, than the daily, serious perusal of the Bible; com- paring parallel passages, and thus making the sacred pen- 7 men each other’s commentators; illustrating the prophecies by the record of their fulfilment; and consulting the narra- tives of the same facts by different historians. Had such a course of reading been generally pursued in the families of Friends, and proper care been taken by parents to inter- est and inform the minds of their children respecting the doctrines of the christian faith, many, who are now unhap- pily perplexed with the doubts and difficulties of unbelief, might have been saved from the labyrinth in which they are involved. | Impressed with these considerations, we have formed ourselves into an association by the name of ‘The Bible Association of Friends in America,’’ and we invite and anticipate your cordial co-operation in our labours. ‘To those who may be disposed to ask whether the ends we have in view, would not be as well or better attained by an union with the members of other religious denomina- tions, who are engaged in this truly christian labour, it will be a sufficient reply, that the present peculiar condi- tion of our religious society appears to us to require an union and concentration of our exertions among ourselves. ‘Those ends, moreover, could not be fully gained by indi- vidual association with any other body, not knowing, and not organized for providing for, the wants of our own members. Our efforts will be directed, in the first place. to printing and furnishing to the members of our religious society, an octavo Bible, in large type, on fine paper and with marginal references, a good concordance and family record. However singular it may appear, it is believed to bea fact, that, notwithstanding the numerous reprints of the Bible which have been recently published in this country. there is not now extant any octavo edition, in clear large type and on good paper, containing the valnable marginal 8 references of Canne, and Brown’s concordance, both which are found to be of great practical utility in the profitable pe- rusal of the sacred volume. It may also be remarked, that many of the bibles and testaments used in schools are in a small and indistinet type, and printed on paper of inferior quality, which render them very difficult for children to read, especially such as are beginning to learn. A distaste for the sacred writings is often thus acquired, merely from the form in which they are presented, before the child is of an age duly to appreciate the preciousness of their con- tents. An edition in a good clear type and on a fair pa- per, suitable for the use of schools, and withal at a mode- rate price, is also an important desideratum. The means by which we propose to carry our views into effect, will be found to be simple and comprehensive. The committee, which will meet in this city, will be en- trusted with the general concerns of the association. It is proposed. that the business of distribution should be placed principally with the auxiliary societies, one at least, of which, we hope to see formed in every Quarterly Meet- ing throughout the continent. The terms of subscription, in the auxiliary societies, will be left entirely to the judg- ment and convenience of the Friends who form them. Every auxiliary will be expected to remit its contributions to the treasurer of the general association, and will be en- titled to receive the whole amount of its contributions in Bibles or Testaments at the Society’s lowest prices. Any member of the Society of Friends in America, contributing thirty dollars in one payment, or three dollars per annum, whether to the general or to an auxiliary association, shall be considered a member of the Bible Association. And every member of this Association, or of any auxiliary, shall be entitled to a return of one half the amount of his annu- 9 al or life subscription, in Bibles or Testaments, at such prices as the committee may establish. A copy of the constitution is herewith annexed, as well as a set of rules for the organization of auxiliary associa- tions, which is recommended to the consideration of Friends about to form them; an uniform plan being very desirable. In the humble hope that the divine blessing may rest upon our endeavours, we recommend these views to the serious consideration of our fellow members throughout this continent, and earnestly solicit their countenance and co-operation. Signed on behalf of the Bible Association of Friends in America. Philadelphia, 9th month, 1829. © JONATHAN EVANS, THOMAS WISTAR, SAMUEL BETTLE, JOHN COX, = Burlington, THOMAS STEWARDSON, SAMUELEMLEN, do. LEONARD SNOWDON, ELLIS YARNALL, JOSEPH CRUKSHANK, ISAAC DAVIS, RICHARD HUMPHREYS, BENJAMIN COOPER, EDWARD RANDOLPH, THOMAS C. JAMES, OTHNIEL ALSOP, THOMAS KIMBER, GEORGE WILLIAMS, BARTHOLOMEW WISTAR, THOMAS P. COPE, ISAAC COLLINS, JOHN PAUL, HENRY COPE, JAMES VAUX, THOMAS EVANS, TIMOTHY PAXSON, JOHN RICHARDSON, SOLOMON W. CONRAD, DANIEL B. SMITH, ABRAHAM L. PENNOCK, GEORGE STEW ARDSON, ROBERTS VAUX, EDWARD BETTLE, JOHN G. HOSKINS, JOB B. REMINGTON, CHARLES ALLEN, MOSES BROWN, ENOCH LEWIS, CHARLES S. FOLWELL, JASPER COPE, JOSEPH SNOWDON. Subscriptions and donations will be received by Henry Corr, Treasurer to the collecting committee, at the counting house of Henry & Alfred Cope, Walnut street wharf. B ARTICLES or THE CONSTITUTION. I. The designation of this Society shall be ** The Bible Association of Friends in America.” II. The objects of the Association shall be, To encou- rage a wider circulation, as well as a more frequent and serious perusal of the Holy Scriptures, and to promote a more accurate knowledge of their invaluable contents. Ill. The attention of this Association shall be first di- rected to furnishing the Bible to such members of the religious Society of Friends as may not be duly supplied; and also, as its funds will permit, to other persons. IV. Any person paying the treasurer of this Institution Thirty Dollars at one time, or Three Dollars annually, and being a member of the religious Society of Friends, shall be a member of this Association. V. The officers of this Association shall be, a Secretary, a Treasurer, a Committee of Correspondence, and an Acting Committee. VI. The Association shall appoint, annually, twenty- four of its members as an acting committee, to conduct its business. They shall be intrusted with the printing and distribution of the Holy Scriptures, in such manner and at such prices as they may judge proper, consistent with il the objects of this Association. ‘They shall have the power of filling such vacancies in the list of officers, or of the committee, as may occur in the recess of the As- sociation; and the minutes of their proceedings shall be laid before the Association at its annual meetings. VII. A committee of three persons shall be appointed annually, to correspond with societies, or individuals, on behalf of this Association, under the direction of the act- ing committee, to which the correspondence shall be submitted at its stated meetings... VIII. The treasurer shall pay all orders drawn by the Association, or the acting committee; and shall make an annual report.in the Fourth-month, to the latter, of his receipts and expenditures during the year. | IX. All the officers of the Association shall be, ex of- jicio, members of the acting committee; and nine members shall constitute a quorum. X. Each member of the Association shall be entitled to a return of one half of his annual or life subscription in bibles or testaments, at the Society’s lowest prices, under such regulations as the acting committee may establish. XI. Such members of the religious Society of Friends as may form themselves into bible associations. under the rules recommended by this Association, shall be consider- ed as auxiliaries, and entitled to privileges hereinafter provided. XII. The full amount paid by auxiliary societies to the ——— —— -- 12 treasurer of this association shall be returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in bibles or testa- ments at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the acting committee; but all sums not so demanded, shall remain at the disposal of this As- sociation, to aid in promoting its general objects. Auxi- liary societies, complying with these regulations, shall be entitled to send delegates to attend the annual meetings of the Bible Association. XIII. Every person paying to the treasurer of an auxi- liary society the sum of thirty dollars at one time, or three dollars annually, and being a member of the religious Soci- ety of Friends, shall, on producing a receipt of such pay- ment, be entitled to the privileges of membership in this Association. XIV. The annual meetings of the Association shall be held in Philadelphia, on the evening of the third Second- day in the Fourth month; at which time the officers shall be appointed. XV. No alteration shall be made in this Constitution, but at an annual meeting, and with the consent of two- thirds of the members present. XVI. Any member of this Association ceasing to be a member of the religious Society of Friends, shall cease to be a member of this Association. WWlbIs3S GOVERNMENT OF AUXILIARY ASSOCEATIONS. i The objects and constitution of the Bible Association of Friends in America, having the approbation of this meeting, it is agreed, that a society be now formed under the following rules, to he called the * ———— Auxiliary Bible Association of Friends,” for the purpose of supply- ing Friends and others, in this vicinity, with the Holy Scriptures, encouraging the frequent and serious perusal of them, and promoting a more accurate knowledge of their invaluable contents; also, of co-operating with the Bible Association of Friends in America, in furthering their important objects in other places. RULES. Ist. Any person paying to the Treasurer, dol- lars at one time, or dollars annually, and being a mem- ber of the religious Society of Friends, shall be a member of this Association. 2nd. Any member of the Bible Association of Friends in America, residing in this district, shall be considered a member of this Auxiliary Association. 3rd. The officers of this Association shall be a Secre- tary, Treasurer, and a Committee of Correspondence. * ; 4 4th. The committee of correspondence shall consist of the secretary, treasurer, and members to be chosen annually: they shall have the power of filling vacancies in their own body, and shall be authorized to act on behalf of the Association, during its recess: they shall meet month- ly, and keep fair minutes of all their proceedings, which, with the correspondence, shall be laid before the Associa- tion at its quarterly meetings. members shall form a quorum. Sth. The Association shall meet once in three months, on the day of At the first quarterly meeting in each year, a statement of the accounts, and of the number of bibles and testaments, distributed and on hand, shall be exhibited; the several officers appointed ; and a detailed report of the proceedings during the pre- ceding year, be prepared and forwarded to the secretary of the Bible Association of Friends in America; to attend the annual meeting of which, delegates may be appointed. 6th. The amount of subscriptions and donations to this Association, after deducting the necessary expenses, shall be remitted annually to the treasurer of the Bible Associ- ation of Friends in America, in consideration of the pro- vision made in the 10th article of its constitution, viz. «The full amount paid by auxiliary societies to the trea- surer of this Association, shall be returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in bibles or testaments at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the acting committee; but all sums not so demanded shall remain at the disposal of this Association, to aid in promoting its general objects.” 15 7th. Every subscriber to this Association shall be enti- tled to a return of one half of the amount of his life or annual subscription, in bibles or testaments at cost, under such regulations as may be hereafter adopted. Sth. The members of the Association shall appoint committees, whose duty it shall be to solicit subscriptions in their respective neighbourhoods, and to inquire what families, individuals or schools, are in want of bibles or testaments, and make report thereof to the Association or the committee of correspondence, in order that they may be promptly supplied, either at prime cost or otherwise, according to circumstances. 9th. . P - " 4, - 5 ‘ : - ’ oe : 7 : ‘ ; » * ¢ *« *, aes ° J rs ar elt “4 f ; _- J , 7 yula ame ipa’ t rs . % ; d * ( : : ~\ e vem be? 7 4 : . ¢ : eo,» > - ‘ . a *« . a, t. =e ra ww ® ps a” », ~ a’ ‘ 7 <” “a . = “ S athe . FIRST ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA, READ AT THE ANNUAL MEETING ON THE EVENING OF THE NINETEENTH OF FOURTH MONTH, 1830. Philavelphia : WILLIAM BROWN, PRINTER. i » a ’ . rah ts 7 , rs * o ' | ’ r 7. ’ / ( e vr " ' > : i . > = FIRST ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION, &c. AT an annual meeting of the Bible Association of Friends in America, held 4th month 19th, 1830— Minutes from auxiliary associations within the limits of New-York, Burlington, Bucks, Abington, and Phila- delphia Quarterly Meetings, were read, appointing the following delegates to attend this meeting, viz: New- York.—Joshua Underhill, Mahlon Day, Henry Hinsdale. Buckhs.—John Comfort, James Moon. Burlington.—Stephen Grellet, Joshua R. Smith, William F. Newbold. | Abington.—Charles Shoemaker, Angus Cameron. Philadelphia.—Stephen Maxfield, Robert Smith, Jeremiah Willets, Thomas George. The minutes of the Acting Committee, and their first annual report to the Association, were read. The la- bours of the Acting Committee, and the success which has attended their exertions, are peculiarly gratifying to the Association. en Nl oo - ee 4 The following Report was received, and the Commit- tee is released ; and the Acting Committee is authorized to receive donations, and to collect the outstanding and annual subscriptions. ** The Collecting Committee of the Bible Association of Friends in America, Report,—That they have ob- tained subscriptions to the amount of six thousand one hundred and sixty-two dollars within the following limits, viz: Philadelphia Monthly Meeting, $1888 Northern district do. do. 1561 Southern district do. do. 991 Western district do. do. 1722 Of which $6052 have been collected and paid to Henry Cope, Treasurer of the Association :—the balance 8110, due from three individuals, cannot at present be obtained. ‘* The sum subscribed embraces 161 life, and 110 an- nual contributors. “The Committee request to be released. «* On behalf of the Collecting Committee. “* Philada. 4th Month 17th, 1830. “EDWARD BETTLE, “ BENJ. H. WARDER, “ THOMAS EVANS, “ISAAC 8S. LOYD. “ To the Bible Association of Friends in America.” The Acting Committee is authorized to publish such part of their Annual Report as they may think expedient. The Nominating Committee made the following Re- port, which was adopted, and the officers therein named are accordingly appointed for the ensuing year, viz: 5 Secretary. DANIEL B. SMITH. Treasurer. HENRY COPE. Corresponding Members. ISAAC COLLINS, THOMAS EVANS, JOHN PAUL. Acting Committee. ELLIS YARNALL, THOS. STEWARDSON, SAMUEL BETTLE, TIMOTHY PAXSON, OTHNIEL ALSOP, THOS. P. COPE, CHARLES ALLEN, THOS. C. JAMES, SOLOMAN W.CONRAD, JASPER COPE, ISAAC DAVIS, ABRAHAM L. PENNOCK, JOSEPH SNOWDON, THOS. KIMBER, BENJ. H. WARDER, THOMAS WOOD, EDWARD BETTLE, THOMAS BACON, JOHN RICHARDSON, GEORGE STEWARDSON, CHARLES YARNALL, JOHN G. HOSKINS, ISAAC S. LOYD, CHAS. S. FOLWELL. It is unanimously agreed to alter the Constitution, so as to give the Acting Committee the title of Managers. The Managers are authorized to prepare and keep a regular record of, and grant certificates of membership to the members of the Bible Association. The following Friends are appointed a Nominating Committee, to propose the names of officers to our next Annual Meeting, viz: Stephen Grellet, Thomas Stew- ardson, George Williams, Timothy Paxson, Enoch Lewis, Ellis Yarnall, Geo. M. Stroud, and Wm. Burrough.— ( Adjourned. ) REPORT. To the Bible Association of Friends in America— At the close of the period for which they were chosen, the Acting Committee submit to the Bible Association the following brief summary of their proceed- ings, of the present situation, and of the prospects of the Institution. Although but five months have elapsed since our appointment, we have great satisfaction in being able to state that considerable progress has been made in the duties more immediately committed to our charge. The amount subscribed to the funds of the Association having warranted us in proceeding immedi- ately to contract with the Stereotype Founders, inqui- ries were instituted at the principal establishments of the kind in New-York and Philadelphia; and an en- gagement entered into with Jedediah Howe of this city for casting two sets of plates for the entire Bible and one for the New Testament. The type for all these copies is to be of the size called Small Pica: the first set of the Bible is to be on a superroyal page and to have marginal readings and references; for the second set, and for the New Testament, the types are to be overrun and the page cast of a smaller size without the marginal readings and references. The Testament will be printed ona 7 duodecimo page, and will make a volume of about 350 pages. The whole cost of the three sets of plates is to be $4382. The committee have availed themselves of an opportunity of purchasing a set of plates for Brown’s Concordance for the sum of 6250, which is not more than one-half the cost of stereotyping them if done to order. ‘They have also agreed to print the excellent index contained in Bagster’s comprehensive Bible, which will not occupy much more space than is taken up by the chronological table usually printed with the sacred volume, and provided for in the contract for the plates. In the choice of references, to parallel passages, the Committee have taken much pains to ascertain the most correct and valuable set extant, and have fixed upon that compiled for Bagster’s Polyglott Bible. Horne in his valuable Introduction to the Study of the Holy Scrip- tures, speaks of this edition as the most elegant and use- ful of all the pocket editions of the English Bible with parallel references, and says it contains a new selection of upwards of sixty thousand references to passages that are really parallel. It is also intended to insert the marginal readings of the translators, without any other note or comment. It has been agreed to print these notes in one central column instead of placing them in the usual. manner. This will not only be a security to the face of the very fine type in which they are cast, but occupy less room, and will be found, it is believed, more convenient for the reader. After the Committee had fixed upon Bagster’s 8 marginal references, an unexpected difficulty occurred which appeared for a time almost insurmountable. It was found that the letters by which each particular mar- ginal reference was designated in the text, were so ar- ranged that unless we copied the edition page for page, the confusion into which the references would be thrown would be so great as to render them utterly useless. The only resource was to have the whole set of referen- ces transcribed, and to commence the alphabet anew with every chapter instead of every page. It would have been difficult to hire a competent person willing to un- dertake so laborious a task, and would moreover have cost us several hundred dollars. In this dilemma one of our number voluntarily undertook to transcribe the whole set of marginal references, and to alter the index as above mentioned. | He has already completed his laborious task in a manner as creditable to his industry and accuracy, as the undertaking itself was to his zeal. The work as contracted for, is now rapidly advancing; the concordance and index are finished, the plates of the Old Testament are cast as far as the 500th page, and the New Testament is under way at the same time. The plates will probably be finished at the time agreed upon in the contract, which is the middle or end of the Eighth month next; and it is believed that the first edition may be ready for delivery in a few weeks thereafter. Contracts have been entered into with a printer and a bookbinder for executing the work in their respective departments. Precautions have been taken for insuring 9 as much accuracy and neatness as were attainable in all the various branches of the business. A quantity of paper of a superior quality has been purchased, and all things, except the plates, are in readiness for commenc- ing our operations. The sum received in subscriptions and donations from Friends in this city and its immediate neighbourhood, amounts to $6052. ied ie os 5 ot ae yee. _ 2 oi ' fe > : . ‘. ‘ vs Th der TOY, ¥ . es er = | ; ee Sst | os > . y ° ‘ . ' 7 aps @, Sy es Vor ‘ar Ws oat ° ; : Se ‘ d + y _ be wee va, cy A | | . ea Rae . ; ' pth 4 7 5 ie ere pes a ‘yoo. * : 3 APPENDIX. Since the foregoing Report was adopted by the As- sociation, the Corresponding Committee have received accounts of the formation of an Auxiliary Association at Salem, Columbiana ‘county, Ohio, and also at Mount Pleasant, making the whole number of Auxiliaries re- ported, ten. | | A letter recently received from a distant correspon- dent, contains the following paragraphs, viz :— ‘¢ Although we feel unable to contribute much towards so great a work, yet we can express our full approbation of the concern, and our hearty wishes for its successful issue.” “From the report of a committee appointed for the purpose, it appears that a greater deficiency ex- ists in the families of Friends than was expected.” By information lately received from our friends in England, we learn that the Meeting for Sufferings in London has officially expressed its full unity with the es- tablishment of the Bible Association of Friends in Ame- rica, and its satisfaction in finding that measures were about to be taken to promote a more general circulation of the Holy Scriptures among the families of Friends. . * ; * ' 1 7 if 4 4 ] ! Fea f - P ' e * , we 6 i : MH, SECOND ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA, READ AT THE ANNUAL MEETING HELD ON THE GCweniug of the cighteenth of Fourth month, 1831. PHILADELPHIA: WILLIAM BROWN, PRINTER. CE eee ee Me ee ng tga : ie. wy ed FSSC AS A some 7 a ri | z j >. . . : : Ee “. a fie ¢ 4 : a . . 4 a ay : j . f SABA) ‘ : SECOND ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION, &c. —— —— '? 24 PRICES OF BIBLES AND TESTAMENTS. o. 1. Common Bible, containing the Old and New Testament, without re- ferences or concordance, bound in plain sheep, - - - 2. Same Bible, bound in plain calf, 4. Fine Bible, containing the Old and New Testament, with marginal readingsand references, Brown’s concordance, a copious index, and family record, bound in sheep, - - - - | 2 25 | 3 00 Do. do. 2 vols.| 2 75 | 2 50 5. Same Bible, bound in calf, - | 2°75 | 3 50 Do. do. do. 2 vols.| 3 25 | 4 00 Do. do. do. 3 do. | 3 75 | 4 50 New Testament, in plain sheep, - —- 50 60 Do. half bound, - - 314} 378 ee AUXILIARY SOCIETIES. Vassalborough, Maine, Auxiliary Bible Association. New-York, New-York, do. Farmington, do. do. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, do. Abington, do. do. Bucks, do. do. Concord, do. do. Burlington, New-Jersey, do. Salem, do. do. Haddonfield, do. do. New-Garden, North-Carolina, do. 25 Deep River, North-Carolina Auxiliary Bible Association, Southern, do. do. Eastern, do. do. Stillwater, Ohio, do. Short Creek, do. do. Salem, do. do. Centre, do. do. New-Garden, Indiana, | do. Blue River, do. do. Whitewater, do.— do. =e The following extracts are subjoined, in order to show the opinions entertained of the Association’s edition of the Bible. From the Episcopal Recorder. FRIENDS’ EDITION OF THE BIBLE. ‘¢ Our readers will find in another part of to-day’s paper, a notice of this new edition of the Bible, which we would recommend to their attention. It is one of the cheapest and most beautiful editions which has been published in this country. It is of the royal octavo size, and is much more convenient for family reading than the quarto form. ‘¢ The religious community will feel under obligations to ‘the Bible Association of Friends in America,’ for adding the marginal references and readings which have been too generally omitted in former editions. The 4. 26 translators, when in doubt respecting the meaning of a passage, placed one version in the text and another in the margin, without deciding in all cases which was most correct. They left it to the judgment of others to make this decision, and in many instances it has been in favour of the marginal reading. It is therefore, in our judg- ment, a question, whether any edition of the English Bible can be considered perfect without these readings. ‘‘The marginal references furnish, perhaps, the best commentary for the study of the scriptures. Dr. Scott gives it as his opinion, ¢ that along with other means, (for none should be recommended exclusively) consulting well selected marginal references, forms one of the best helps for fixing the word of God in the memory, leading the mind to a just interpretation of it, and in many cases rendering it most affecting to the heart. It tends pow- erfully to counteract all sceptical doubts, when every part of scripture is thus found (like the stones in an arch) to support and receive support from the rest, and to con- stitute one grand whole; the divine inspiration of which is proved by every prophecy or miracle, and all kind of external and internal evidence.’ ” From the Philadelphian. - FRIENDS’ EDITION OF THE BIBLE. ‘‘We expressed our gratification nearly a year ago, at the formation in this city of the ‘ Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and at their intention to publish an 27 edition of the holy scriptures, in royal octavo, with the translators’ various readings, and with marginal refer- ences. ‘¢ This work is now before the public, and it is, in our opinion, by far the best copy of the Bible for convenient family use, and for aged persons, which has ever issued from the American press. In saying this, we have not forgotten the merits of the quartos published by Collins of New-York, and Carey of this city, which are entitled to great credit for their accuracy; but are not so con- venient in form as the book before us. We have used also, and admired the royal octavo Bible stereotyped in Boston in 1829, and sold by Hillyard and others ; but it contains no marginal translations and references, has some typographical inaccuracies, and is encumbered with the Apocrypha.” LIFE SUBSCRIBERS. Charles Allen, Elizabeth Cleaver, Othniel Alsop, Mary Coates, Thomas Baeon, Sidney Coates, Mary Bacon, Thomas P. Cope, George V. Bacon, Jasper Cope, Rebecca 5S. Bartram, Israel Cope, Rachel C. Bartram, Rebecca Cope, Samuel Bettle, Henry Cope, Edward Bettle, Marmaduke C. Cope, Samuel Bettle, jun. Alfred Cope, William Bettle, Sarah B. Cope, James Boustead, Elizabeth C. Cope, Jeremiah Brown, Isaac Collins, Moses Brown, Wm. M..Collins, William Burrough, Martha L. Collins, —, — OO JE fe ae ot ee Isaac Cooper, Sarah E. Cresson, Elliot Cresson, Joseph Crukshank, Isaac Davis, John W. Davis, Richard W. Davis, Mordecai L. Dawson, Sally N. Dickinson, _ John Elliott, Joseph Ely, Thomas Evans, Ruth Ely, Solebury, James C. Fisher, Edward B. Garrigues, Margaret Gregory, Sarah M. Grimke, Elizabeth Guest, Anna Guest, Isaiah Hacker, Jeremiah Hacker, John Hallowell, William Hallowell, jun. Isaac Harvey, Abraham Hilyard, William Hodgson, jun. John G. Hoskins, Richard Humphreys, Uriah Hunt, Thomas C. James, Elizabeth M. James, Rebecca C. James, Jane Johnson, Martha Johnson, Benjamin Jones, Jacob Justice, Margaret Justice, George R. Justice, Thomas Kimber, George G. Lawrie, 28 Enoch Lewis, Thomas Loyd, Thomas Loyd, jun. Isaac S. Loyd, Elizabeth S. Loyd, ’ Mary N. Logan, Sarah E. Logan, Ann Mifflin, Lloyd Miflilin, Isaac W. Morris, Israel W. Morris, Abigail Morris, Samuel B. Morris, Samuel Morris, Anne DID. Morrison, Anna Morton, Catharine Murray, V. Y. Lindzey Nicholson, Thomas Parke, Hannah Parke, Joseph Paul, John Paul, Hannah Paul, John Paul, jun. ‘Timothy Paxson, Elizabeth Pearsall, Mary Pearsall, Abraham L. Pennock, George Pennock, Joseph L. Pennock, Anna Potts, John Peirson, Joseph Rakestraw, ne Randolph, George F. Randolph, Richard Randolph, Elizabeth E. Randolph, Job B. Remington, Charles Roberts, Sarah Richardson, John Richardson, Thomas Scattergood, William Scattergood, David Sellers, Blakey Sharpless, Catharine Sheppard, Samuel C. Sheppard, Rebecca Singer, George R. Smith, Daniel B. Smith, Grizzel Smith, Thomas Smith, Newberry Smith, jun. - Leonard Snowdon, Lydia Starr, Thomas Stewardson, George Stewardson, George W. Taylor, Charles W. Taylor, William Thomas, Peter Thomson, Jesse Thomson, James Vaux, George Vaux, Roberts Vaux, Richard Vaux, 29 Thomas W. Vaux, Jacob 5. Wain, Edward Waln, S. Morris Waln, Wm. S. Warder, Benjamin H. Warder, Rebecca S. Warder, Joseph Warrington, Sarah Wayne, George Williams, Richard Williams, Thomas Wistar, Thomas Wistar, jun. Elizabeth W. Wistar, Sarah Wistar, jun. Caspar Wistar, M. 1). Bartholomew Wistar, John Wistar, Thomas Wood, Thomas Wynn, Ellis Yarnall, Sarah H. Yarnall, Edward Yarnall, Charles Yarnall. John Wistar, Salem, WV. J. ANNUAL SUBSCRIBERS. Philadelphia. John Allen, Priscilla Barker, Thomas Bettle, Isaac Bonsall, ‘Thomas Branson, David S. Brown, Mary Brown, -Nathan Bunker, John Carter, Sarah Clarke, Jacob Clayton, Solomon W. Conrad, John Cooper, John Cozens, Mary Cowgill, George M. Elkinton, Charles Ellis, Mary L. Farrington, William Faweett, Charles S. Folwell, Oliver Fuller, jun. William Garrigues, jun. Joseph Gibbons, Hart Grandom, Sarah Green, George M. Haverstick, Susanna Haworth, Richard Hartshorne, Hugh Hartshorne, Sarah Hillman, William Hodgson, Catharine Hopkins, Eliza Hopkins, Hannah Hollingsworth, Mary Hornor, Eleanor Hoskins, Sarah P. Howard, Joseph Howell, Jane Humphreys, Halliday Jenkins, Samuel Jobson, jun. William Jones, (.@rch st.) George Jones, 30 Stephen Maxfield, Charles F. Matlack, Susanna M‘Collin, Sarah L. Mifllin, . Catharine W. Morris, Stephen P. Morris, Isaac P. Morris, James 5S. Newbold, Paul W. Newhall, Ann Ofiley, Mary Phipps, Robert L. Pittfield, Ruth Reeve, Samuel Rhoads, jun. Reuben Roberts, Elizabeth Roberts, Pearson Serrill, Regina H. Shober, ‘Townsend Sharpless, Nathan Smith, Richard Smith, Robert Smith, Morris Smith, Myles Snowdon, Joseph Snowdon, William Jones, (Fourth st.) Eliza Snowden, John Kirk, Eliza P. Kirkbride, Thomas Kite, Joseph Kite, jun. Nathan Kite, William Kite, Dorothy Large, Rebecca Large, James Large, John Lippincott, Charles Linciadett, Isaac Lowry, Ann Maule, William Maule, Jesse Stanley, George M. Stroud, Mary Taylor, Lydia Taylor, Isaac P. Taylor, Jane B. Temple, Jonathan Thomas, Lydia P. Thompson, Thomas S. Tucker, Benjamin E. Valentine, Elizabeth Waln, Joseph Walton, Catherine V. West, Ann Wharton, 31 John M. Whitell, Mifflin Wistar, Jeremiah Willets, Ann Wood, Joseph B. Willets, Samuel C. Wood, Lydia Willis, Richard D. Wood. George G. Williams, Charles Williams, James Moon, Falsington. Elizabeth Wistar, New- York. William Birdsal!, Samuel Parsons, Gould Brown, Samuel Paxson, George Bussel, B. D. Perkins, Thomas Cock, Esther Seymour, Daniel Coolidge, R. T. Underhill, Mahlon Day, Edmund Underhill, Hannah Eddy, Ira B. Underhill, John H. Ferris, Walter Underhill, Thomas Fox, Joshua S. Underhill, John Griscom, George Underhill, William Hartshorne, Joshua Underhill, Ann Haviland, William Wagstaff, Sarah Hawxhurst, William Waring, John Hancock, William Willis, Jericho. James Hillyard, John R. Willis, Henry Hinsdale, Samuel Wood, William Hutchin, Richard Wood, John King, John Wood, Henry H. Lawrence, Richard Wright, Lindley Murray, Elizabeth Yates. The Depository of the Bible Association is in Car- penter street, near Seventh street. Communications respecting the business of the oflice may be addressed to the corresponding members, or to William Salter, agent. , - $ < J > Oy > > . Ls & i ; . > -§ ‘ 7 7 ¢ 7 - . 7 . is AP Me pares tee ay | .* : | x si < th 7% ye: + : 9 < » * ,* a : 7 2 e = : wv oF - ~% i , » f y ~ 4 . » ‘ 4 , c . af q +4 wer? ‘- ‘ o. ’ v on ‘ . ¥ . - - » | e st 7 ¥ / . ~) » . ‘ : ; » . : . , . - * ¥ * : = > 7a 7 ad ed . - 7 . : . . ° 7 j a * . ~ } ? ; > ’ 7 ; «, 7 . - *~ J - ' a i . * * 7 t . i >" / . . : on ‘ 7 / ‘ f : - ‘ » - 1 fo il = ry 7 * ° \ THIRD ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AWERICA, WEAD ATV VES ANNUAL WaBRnTG HELD ON THE Bwrening of the sicteenth of Mourth month, 1832. PHILADELPHIA: WILLIAM BROWN, PRINTER. WAPOB. To the Bible Association of Friends in America— Tue period for which the managers were chosen having expired, they respectfully submit the following summary of their proceedings. Soon after the last annual meeting, the second edition of the Bible with references, consisting of twelve hun- dred and fifty copies, was published, and the third edi- tion, comprising four thousand copies, was immediately put to press. Of this edition the printing has been com- pleted, and a considerable number has been delivered at the Depository. In the Seventh month last, an edition of two hundred and fifty copies of the same Bible, printed on superfine paper was issued, and it is believed that as respects the beauty and durability of the materials and the neatness of the execution, it will advantageously compare with the best editions of the Holy Scriptures printed in this country. Of the school Testament two editions have been printed: one of fifteen hundred copies was published in the Third month, and the other of one thousand copies in the Eighth month last. Of the school Bible, but one edition has been issued, but the stock of this Bible as well as of the Testaments being much reduced, another edition of each will shortly be required. 4 In order to secure a supply of materials to meet any probable demand, the managers have authorized a con- tract for a quantity of paper sufficient to print four thou- sand Bibles in addition to those now in progress. Since the publication of the first edition, in the Second month of last year, 3186 Bibles have been disposed of, to wit: 2473 Bibles with references, 97 copies of the same Bible on superfine paper, and 616 school Bibles. In the same period 2232 Testaments have been distri- buted. There have been sent to auxiliary associations 1153 reference Bibles, 196 school Bibles, and 835 Testaments—sold to contributors and others 1033 refer- ence Bibles, 216 school Bibles, and 965 Testaments. Of those furnished to auxiliaries, 32 Bibles have been disposed of within the limits of New-England Yearly Meeting, 199 within those of New-York, 470 within Philadelphia Yearly Meeting, 53 in Virginia, 156 in North Carolina, 235 in Ohio, and 304 in Indiana Yearly Meetings. In addition to these, 200 Bibles with refer- ences, 200 school Bibles, and 400 Testaments have been forwarded to the Indiana Meeting for Sufferings, and paid for out of a fund placed at our disposal for that purpose. The stock on hand, exclusive of books in sheets, con- sists of 189 reference Bibles, 288 school Bibles, and 216 Testaments. So far as the managers have been able to collect the opinions of Friends from their correspondence with the auxiliaries and from other sources, our several editions of the Bible and Testament have been received with decided approbation. The few errors which were 5 discovered in the first edition have been corrected in the others, and from the great facility of correcting inaccuracies afforded by the stereotype plates, it is hoped that the text of our Bible may before long be rendered nearly faultless. ‘The usefulness of the references to pa- rallel texts, in promoting and assisting the study of the sacred writings, appears to be generally appreciated, as is evinced by the greater demand for the reference Bible, while the smaller copy has been found well adapted to supply the want which has been long felt in our schools, of an edition of the Scriptures at once porta- ble and easily legible. Since their last report the managers have been officially advised of the formation of eight additional auxiliaries, to wit: Miami, Ohio; Yonge Street, Upper Canada; Red Stone, Pennsylvania; Upper Quarterly Meeting, Virginia; White Lick, Indiana; Scipio, New-York; Westfield, Indiana;.and Eastern, North Carolina, making the whole number of these associations twenty-eight. In the proceedings of the auxiliaries the managers recog- nise with satisfaction a commendable zeal for the promo- tion of the objects of the institution. They regret, however, that they have not yet been furnished with such statements of the deficiencies in their respective . neighbourhoods as would enable the Association properly to estimate the necessity for more strenuous efforts to place the Holy Scriptures in the hands of every member of our religious society. ‘That great deficiencies do exist, the facts mentioned in the last annual report suffi- ciently prove, and the few returns since received con- 6 firm the conclusion. By only two of the auxiliaries have distinct answers been forwarded to the queries upon this interesting subject, in the course of the past year. Of these one states that 4 families and 38 adults are destitute of the Old and New Testaments, and that of 190 children of Friends attending school, ‘few are duly supplied with the Holy Scriptures.”” The other mentions that out of 180 families and parts of families within its limits 38 are destitute of full copies of the Bible, and 23 of the New Testament. Another auxiliary acknowledges the receipt of the Bibles and Testaments forwarded by the agent, and adds, that many more Bibles could be distri- buted, but that they have not the money to pay for them. On comparing the number of Bibles and Testaments dis- tributed to the auxiliaries with the deficiencies stated to exist within the limits of the few who had been heard from at the date of the last report, the members of the Association will not fail to notice the very inadequate supply which has been furnished. It is a fact which the managers feel to be a distressing one, but which they believe it to be their duty to press upon the notice of their fellow members, that a large number of families belonging to the society of Friends in various parts of our favoured country, are to this day deprived of easy access to the Holy Scriptures. It is undeniably true that many children of Friends are thus brought up in very great ignorance of those sacred records—and it isa melancholy consequence of this state of things, that the evil which it is now in our power to remedy, will if neglected soon be no longer under our control. To apply that remedy is not now within the means of the managers. The funds 7 at their disposal have been expended in books and mate- rials, and a debt of $4000 has been incurred, to meet which they must depend upon the returns from the auxiliaries, and on voluntary subscriptions. It is to the members of auxiliary associations, who, surrounded by outward blessings, can sympathize with those whose limited circumstances preclude even the purchase of a Bible, that we must look for the means to supply our suffering brethren with this greatest external source of consolation and instruction. . The managers are aware that this is an appeal to the liberality of Friends of an unusual character. But the investigations consequent upon the establishment of this institution have resulted in the discovery of deficiencies as unexpected as they are deplorable, and it is believed that even now, Friends are far from being sufficiently apprized of the necessity which exists for prompt and united exertions to remedy this great and increasing evil. Deeply impressed with the importance of furnishing a supply of Bibles to those districts in which the greatest deficiencies are known to exist, the managers are unwilling to leave this part of the subject without suggesting that those auxiliary asso- ciations within whose limits Friends are generally in more easy circumstances, be requested to take immediate measures for raising a fund to be applied under the di- rection of the board to the gratuitous distribution of Bibles and Testaments. Among the most encouraging circumstances which have attended the labours of the managers, is the increased number of the auxiliaries. 8 Of the services assigned by the constitution to the different departments in the society, none are more im- portant than those which devolve upon these associations. To investigate the wants of their respective vicinities, to promote the careful study of the sacred writings, and to keep open a channel of communication by which the sympathies of Friends may be awakened in each other’s behalf, are duties upon the due performance of which the success of the institution essentially depends. The managers trust that the time is not far distant when no quarterly meeting on this continent will be without at least one auxiliary, and not until then will the benefit to be derived from this Association be fully realized. In their last report the managers expressed a hope that a building might be procured in a central situation in this city, for the more convenient transaction of the busi- ness of the institution. ‘They have now the satisfaction to state that this object has been happily attained. Inthe Fifth month last, a lot situate on Fourth near Arch street, con- taining in front about 32 feet, and nearly 80 feet in depth was purchased by direction of the board, and as soon as possession could be obtained, buildings covering nearly the whole area were commenced, and are now so far completed as to be occupied by the Association and its tenants. ‘The location of these buildings, their size, and internal arrangements are such as admirably adapt them to the object in view. Ina very public situation, near to one of the greatest thoroughfares of the city, affording spacious rooms for the printing and binding offices, and for the accommodation of the board, it is hoped that they 9 will essentially aid the economical and secure conducting of our business, as well as promote the sales of our Bibles. The whole expense of the lot and buildings is estimated at about twenty-one thousand dollars. The raising of so large a sum would have greatly embarrassed the board, had they not affected an advantageous arrangement with one of their number, by which this difficulty was ob- viated. In accordance with this agreement, the funds for the purchase of the lot and the erection of the build- ings have been furnished by the member alluded to, for which the Association is to pay interest at less than the legal rate, together with the taxes and repairs, reserving the right to obtain a title to the premises at the end of seven years by refunding the first cost. By this arrange- ment the board have not only secured convenient accom- modations for the transaction of its business, but will derive some income from the surplus rents. ‘The moneys accruing from this source, after deducting interest, taxes and repairs, the managers have directed to be in- vested as a sinking fund, to be applied eventually to redeeming the premises, and for the means of increasing this fund they confidently appeal to the liberality of Friends. Should the Association be able to pay off the cost of these buildings at the expiration of the term agreed upon, the whole of the rents arising from them might be applied to the gratuitous distribution of the Bible, and a permanency and security would be given to the operations of the Institution, which under the divine blessing could not fail to be most beneficially felt. On reviewing the occurrences of the past year, the 2 10 managers are confirmed in the belief that the Institution to the direction of which they have been called, is one which has strong claims upon the liberality and zealous co-operation of their fellow members. Divested of all sectional views, it embraces within the sphere of its ope- rations the whole society, wherever located on this extensive continent; it asks the assistance of all in distri- buting that volume in which all have an equal interest ; and it appeals to us in behalf not of strangers, but of brethren connected to us by the endearing tie of a com- mon faith. Signed on behalf and by direction of the board. Asm. L. Pennock, Sec’y. Philadelphia, 4th mo. Tth, 1832. 11 ABSTRACT OF THE TREASURER’S REPORT. The following sums have been received during the year ending on the 6th instant, to wit : Donations, - - - ° . - $2086 50 Life Subscriptions, - - - - - 240 00 Annual do. - . . . - 189 60 Sales of Bibles and Testaments, - - - 1618 93 From auriliarics, viz. Vassalborough, Maine, - - - $51 50 New-York, - - - - 163 00 Scipio, N. Y. - . - - 53 67 Farmington, N. Y. - - - . 55 00 Yonge Street, U. C. - - “ 41 57 Philadelphia, : - - - 247 00 Abington, Pa. . - - . 38 00 Bucks, do. - - - - 73 00 Concord, do. - - - - 424 00 Red Stone, do. - - - - 40 00 Salem, N. J. - - - = 6 00 Haddonfield, N. J. : 39 30 Upper Q: iarterly Meeting, (Va. ) Avxiliary, - 86 00 Eastern, N. C. - - 80 00 Southern, do. - - - 74 00 New-Garden, N. C. - - - 35 28 Miami, Ohio, - - - - 60 50 Centre, do. - - - - 20 00 Whitewater, Indiana, - - - 182 81 1870 63 Loan by three members of the Association free of interest, 4th mo. 30th, 1831, i : : - 1500 00 Loans at 6 per cent. interest, : - = 2500 00 Balance on hand at last settlement, - . . 714 26 $10719 92 During the same period the payments have been— For Binding, - - - - - $2230 39 Paper, - - - - - - 4796 17 Printing, - - - - - - 1419 12 Agent’s Salary and incidental expenses at the Depository, 351 51 Rent, account books, and sundries, - - “ 291 07 Stereotype plates, - - - - - 391 48 Sinking fund, - - . . - 578 20 10057 94 Leaving a balance in the hands of the treasurer of —- 661 98 $10719 92 12 Officers of the Bible Association of Friends in America. Secretary. DANIEL B. SMITH. Treasurer. HENRY COPE. Corresponding Members. JOHN PAUL, THOMAS EVANS, ISAAC COLLINS. Managers. SAMUEL BETTLE, THOMAS P, COPE, OTHNIEL ALSOP, THOMAS C, JAMES, CHARLES ALLEN, JASPER COPE, ISAAC DAVIS, ABM. L. PENNOCK, JOSEPH SNOWDON, THOMAS KIMBER, BENJN. H. WARDER, THOMAS WOOD, EDWARD BETTLE, THOMAS BACON, JOHN RICHARDSON, GEORGE STEWARDSON, CHARLES YARNALL, JOHN G. HOSKINS, ISAAC 8S. LOYD, LINDZEY NICHOLSON, THOMAS STEWARDSON, BARTHOLOMEW WISTAR, TIMOTHY PAXSON, GEORGE WILLIAMS, SS AUXILIARY SOCIETIES. Vassalborough, Maine, Auxiliary Bible Association. New-York, New-York, do. Scipio, do. do. Farmington, do. do. Yonge Street, Upper Canada, do. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, do. Abington, do. do. Bucks, do. do. Concord, do. do. 13 Red Stone, Pennsylvania, Auxiliary Bible Association, Burlington, New-Jersey, do. Salem, do. do. Haddonfield, do. do. Upper Quarterly Meeting, Va. do. New-Garden, North- Sarin do. Deep River, do. do. Southern, do. do. Eastern do. do. Stillwater, Ohio, do. Short Creek, do. do. Miami, do. do. Salem, do. do. Centre, do. do. New-Garden, Indiana, do. Blue River, do. do. Whitewater, do. do. White Lick, do. do. Westfield, do. do. ———~—-—. WBUbwS FOR THE GOVERNMENT OF AUXILIARY ASSOCIATIONS. The objects and constitution of the Bible Association of Friends in America, having the approbation of this meeting, itis agreed, that asociety be now formed under the following rules, to be called the ¢¢ Auxiliary 14 Bible Association of Friends,’’ for the purpose of supply- ing Friends and others, in this vicinity, with the holy scriptures, encouraging the frequent and serious perusal of them, and promoting a more accurate knowledge of their invaluable contents; also, of co-operating with the Bible Association of Friends in America, for furthering their important objects in other places. RULES. Ist. Any person paying to the treasurer, dol- lars at one time, or dollars annually, and being a member of the religious society of Friends, shall be a member of this Association. 2d. Any member of the Bible Association of Friends in America, residing in this district, shall be considered a member of this Auxiliary Association. 3d. The officers of this Association shall be a secre- tary, treasurer, and a committee of correspondence. 4th. The committee of correspondence shall consist of the secretary, treasurer, and members to be chosen annually: they shall have the power of filling vacancies in their own body, and shall be authorized to act on be- half of the Association, during its recess: they shall meet monthly, and keep fair minutes of all their proceedings, which, with the correspondence, shall be laid before the Association at its quarterly meetings. members shall form a quorum. 5th. The Association shall meet once in three months on the day of At the first quarterly meeting in each year, a statement of the accounts, and of 15 the number of Bibles and Testaments, distributed and on hand, shall be exhibited ; the several officers appointed ; and a detailed report of the proceedings during the pre- ceding year, be prepared and forwarded to the secretary of the Bible Association of Friends in America; to attend the annual meeting of which, delegates may be appointed. 6th. The amount of subscriptions and donations to this Association, after deducting the necessary expenses, shall be remitted annually to the treasurer of the Bible Association of Friends in America, in consideration of the provision made in the tenth article of its constitution, viz. ** The full amount paid by auxiliary societies to the treasurer of this Association, shall be returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in Bibles or Tes- taments at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the acting committee; but all sums not so demanded shall remain at the disposal of this Association, to aid in promoting its general objects.” 7th. Every subscriber to this Association shall be en- titled to a return of one-half of the amount of his life or annual subscription, in Bibles or Testaments at cost, un- der such regulations as may be hereafter adopted. 8th. The members of the Association shall appoint committees, whose duty it shall be to solicit subscriptions in their respective neighbourhoods, and to inquire what families, individuals or schools, are in want of Bibles or Testaments, and make a report thereof to the Association or the committee of correspondence, in order that they may be promptly supplied, either at prime cost. or otherwise, according to circumstances. 9th. A list of such committees shall be kept by the 16 secretary; and at every quarterly mecting, each com- mittee shall be called upon to report the state of its neighbourhood ; the amount of moneys collected, and the numbers of Bibles and Testaments distributed or required. 10th. Any member, ceasing to be a member of the religious society of Friends, shall cease to be a member of this Association. PRICES OF BIBLES AND TESTAMENTS. No. 1. Common Bible, containing the Old and New Testament, without re- ferences and concordance, bound in plain sheep, - - - 2. Same Bible, bound in plain calf, 4. Fine Bible, containing the Old and. New Testament, with marginal readings and references, Brown's! concordance, a copious index, and family record, bound in sheep, - - - + - = = 2 25 | 3 00 Do. do. 2 vols.| 2 75 | 3 50 5. Same Bible, bound in calf, - 275 | 3 50 Do. do. do. 2 vols.| 3 25 | 4 00 Do. do. do. 3do. | 3 75 | 4 50 New Testament, in plain speep, - - 50 60 Do. halfbound, -— - 314; 374 oo . FORMS OF LEGACY. 1. Form of a Bequest of Personal Estate. «] give and bequeath to A. B. and C. D. and the sur- vivor of them, and the executors and administrators of 17 such survivor, the sum of in trust for the use of an institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and to be paid by the said trustees to the treasurer for the time being of the said institution.” 2. Form of a Devise of Real Estate. “‘T give and devise to A. B. and C. D. and their heirs, all that (here describe the property) together with the appurtenances, to hold to them, the said A. B. and C. D. and the survivor of them, and the heirs of such survivor for ever; in trust nevertheless for the sole use and benefit of an institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘ The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and upon this further trust, absolutely to dispose of, and convey the same, either in fee, or for such other estate, and in such way and manner, as the members of the said Association shall, at any meeting or meetings, order, direct, and appoint.” The Depository of the Bible Association is on north Fourth street, a few doors above Arch street. Commu- nications respecting the business of the office may be addressed to the corresponding members, or to Wm. Salter, Agent. _-. iS Rae.) sae #3 Ga few it a al eae at | 7d awony sh hey’ hati al end uaiiegt ae tone sina A ak abuse: 't 38 on isiace Ay alii od Tao wus: a7 o8 ago fel vina elt eh Rhagp.ad.e “S moittiiteat bees sil) Ta geniod, ani : . Q2RAT Sk Agent’s Salary and incidental expenses, ‘ ° . ; 611 34 Rent and Insurance on Stock, ‘ ‘ ° ‘ ‘ ‘ 217 19 Sinking Fund, ‘ ° ‘ b . ° . 336 40 Interest on borrowed money, ; ; ; ‘ : ° 145 25 Loans paid off, ‘ : ‘ 2 ‘ : . . 3,000 00 $9,172 77 Balance in the hands of the Treasurer, . ; ’ : $1,403 50 $10,576 27 BAPBAVGES FROM THE REPORTS OF AUXILIARIES. From the Report of the New York Auxiliary, adopted at a meeling, 1st month 2Ath, 1833. At the first meeting held after the last report, we had about 20 Bibles and 70 Testaments on hand. In the prospect of remittances, it was directed that 25 Bibles and 40 Testaments be offered to the meeting for sufferings. These have been accepted and delivered to their di- rection. A general meeting was held of our association at the time of our yearly meeting in the 5th month, which was large and satisfactory. ‘The annual report of your Association was read, as well as an annual statement of our proceedings. It was concluded towards the close of the meeting, that this would be a proper time to en- deavour to form auxiliary associations in all those quar- terly meetings in which they did not already exist. For this purpose adjourned meetings were held, and the names of Friends offered who would likely favour such associations. ‘This arrangement met with much encou- ragement, and we were induced to hope favourably from the impressions then made. Cases of Friends destitute of the Bible continue to come to our knowledge from time to time, particularly at the period of our yearly 21 meeting ; when such cases have been known they liave been promptly supplied. We are encouraged by the occasional addition of new subscribers, and by the interest which has been shown at our annual meetings. Such opportunities have enabled Friends to understand the nature of such associations, and spread a knowledge of their usefulness in different sec- tions of the yearly meeting. Although we have not done much comparatively in the extensive spread of the Bible, yet having answered the wants which have come to our knowledge, we would desire to persevere in the hope of continued usefulness. From the Report of the Auxiliary Bible Association of Friends in Philadelphia Quarterly Meeting, held 2d month 4th, 1833. Where instances have become known of individuals being deficient of a supply of the Scriptures, the want has been promptly attended to, yet we are not without fears that within our limits and particularly in some of our country districts, many cases still exist which have not come to our knowledge. As our stock on hand was more than adequate to meet the small demand made upon it within our limits; 6 Bibles without references and 20 Testaments were given in the 7th month last, to a com- pany of coloured emigrants, (formerly under the care of the yearly meeting of North Carolina,) who were about to leave our neighbourhood for Liberia, in the hope that they might prove a blessing to them when settled in the land of their forefathers. 22 To secure the efficient aid of our female members in the prosecution of the interesting objects of this associa- tion, the auxiliary has concluded to divide itself into two branches, the male and female branch—both branches to meet together annually in the 2d month, and separately at other times in the year; by which arrangement, we trust we shall be enabled more fully to carry into effect the designs of the parent association. In reviewing our labours, we are encouraged to believe that our endeavours to distribute this invaluable book will prove a blessing to many of those to whom it has been given, and may tend to promote amongst the members of our religious society an increasing interest in the study of the sacred volume: and while our exertions are made in the humble hope of benefiting others, we are con- strained to acknowledge that this engagement has a ten- dency to excite in ourselves a lively sense of the many privileges we enjoy, and warm our hearts in a desire still to persevere in the work. From the Report of the White Water Auziliary, 3d month 2d, 1833. There are yet many families of Friends within our limits who are furnished only with the small kind of Bi- bles, but the number has greatly diminished during the last two years, and as ability is afforded, it is believed will still continue to diminish. We are glad that a disposition to read the Bible, and a desire to be more intimately acquainted with its inya- 23 luable contents, are becoming more and more apparent ; and notwithstanding there is yet too great remissness with many, in these respects, and even in some, a want of desire to possess the Scriptures, yet upon the whole, there has been, and we humbly hope, will still continue to be, much improvement, affording satisfaction and rea- sonable encouragement to those who have been engaged in the labour. The schools amongst us are mostly in the practice of reading the New Testament, of which a deficiency in the desirable supply is noticed ; but Bibles have as yet been introduced to a very limited extent. From Auxiliary, 1st month 25th, 1833. By the report of the officers, it appears that they have been actively engaged during the past year in endeavour- ing to furnish those families of Friends who are not sup- plied with Bibles that have notes and references, but owing to our limited circumstances for want of funds, but few have been supplied since our last annual meeting ; out of 225 families within the limits of our quarter, not more than about 40 have been supplied, although Friends generally are well pleased with our Bibles. However since the commencement of our society we have distri- buted about 90 Bibles. From Auxiliary, 3d month 24th, 1833. A considerable number of adult individuals, members of families, are not yet supplied. There are occasionally 24 about ten schools within our limits, averaging about twenty scholars each, which are not so fully supplied with the Scriptures as would be desirable. From —— Auxiliary, 2d month 15th, 1833. A considerable number of individuals who have not families are reported to have the New Testament, and not the Old. ‘There are three schools within the limits of our district, and about 102 scholars in attendance, about 53 of whom are unprovided with the Scriptures. From ———— Aluziliary, 1st month 25th, 1833. No families are in possession of the Old without the New Testament: but one family and about ten individuals have the New and not the Old. There are four schools within our limits, with about 135 scholars (members) in attendance ; about 100 of whom are without Bibles, and 50 without Testaments. Officers of the Bible Association of Friends in America. Secretary. DANIEL B. SMITH. Treasurer. HENRY COPE. Corresponding Members. JOHN PAUL, THOMAS EVANS, ISAAC COLLINS. 29 Managers. THOMAS STEWARDSON, GEORGE STEWARDSON, SAMUEL BETTLE, BENJAMIN H. WARDER, TIMOTHY PAXSON, CHARLES YARNALL, THOMAS P. COPE, JOHN G. HOSKINS, OTHNIEL ALSOP, BARTHOLOMEW WISTAR, JASPER COPE, GEORGE WILLIAMS, ABRAHAM L. PENNOCK, ISAAC DAVIS, JOSEPH SNOWDON, LINDZEY NICHOLSON, THOMAS KIMBER, ISAAC S. LOYD, THOMAS BACON, ABRAHAM HILYARD, THOMAS WOOD, SAMUEL B. MORRIS, JOHN RICHARDSON, BLAKEY SHARPLESS. AUZILIARY SOCIETIES. Vassalborough, Maine, Auxiliary Bible Association. New-York, New-York, do. Scipio, do. do. Farmington, do. do. Yonge Street, Upper Canada, do. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, do. Abington, do. do. Bucks, do. do. Concord, do. do. Red Stone, do. do. Burlington, New-Jersey, do. Salem, do. do. Haddonfield, do. do. Upper Quarterly Meeting, Va. do. New-Garden, North-Carolina, do. D Deep River, North-Carolina, Auxiliary Bible Association, 26 Southern, do. do. Eastern do. do. Stillwater, Ohio, do. Short Creek, do. do. Miami, do. do. Salem, do. do. Centre, do. do. New-Garden, Indiana, do. Blae River, do. do. White Water, do. do. White Lick, do. do. Westfield, do. do. Ferrisburg, Vermont, do. IBV bas FOR THE GOVERNMENT OF AUXILIARY ASSOCIATIONS. The objects and constitution of the Bible Association of Friends in America, having the approbation of this meeting, it is agreed, that a society be now formed under the following rules, to be called the “ Auxiliary Bible Association of Friends,” for the purpose of supply- ing Friends and others, in this vicinity, with the Holy Scriptures, encouraging the frequent and serious perusal of them, and promoting a more accurate knowledge of 27 their invaluable contents; also, of co-operating with the Bible Association of Friends in America, for furthering their important objects in other places. RULES. ist. Any person paying to the treasurer, dol- lars atone time, or dollars annually, and being a member of the religious society of Friends, shall be a member of this Association. 2d. Any member of the Bible Association of Friends in America, residing in this district, shall be considered a member of this Auxiliary Association. 3d. The officers of this Association shall be a secre- tary, treasurer, and a committee of correspondence. 4th. The committee of correspondence shall consist of the secretary, treasurer, and members to be chosen annually : they shall have the power of filling vacancies in their own body, and shall be authorized to act on be- half of the Association, during its recess: they shall meet monthly, and keep fair minutes of all their proceedings, which with the correspondence, shall be laid before the Association at its quarterly meetings. members shall form a quorum. 5th. The Association shall meet once in three months on the day of At the first quarterly meeting in each year, a statement of the accounts, and of the number of Bibles and Testaments, distributed and on hand, shall be exhibited; the several officers appointed ; and a detailed report of the proceedings during the pre- 28 ceding year, be prepared and forwarded to the secretary of the Bible Association of Friends in America; to attend the annual meeting of which, delegates may be appointed. 6th. The amount of subscriptions and donations to this Association, after deducting the necessary expenses, shall be remitted annually to the treasurer of the Bible Association of Friends in America, in consideration of the provision made in the tenth article of its constitution, viz. ** The full amount paid by auxiliary societies to the treasurer of this Association, shall be returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in Bibles or Tes- ments at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the acting committee ; but all sums not so demanded shall remain at the disposal of this Association, to aid in promoting its general objects.” 7th. Every subscriber to this Association shall be en- titled to a return of one-half of the amount of his life or ~ annual subscription, in Bibles or Testaments at cost, un- der such regulations as may be hereafter adopted. 8th. The members of the Association shall appoint committees, whose duty it shall be to solicit subscriptions in their respective neighbourhoods, and to inquire what families, individuals or schools, are in want of Bibles or Testaments, and make a report thereof to the Association or the committee of correspondence, in order that they may be promptly supplied, either at prime cost or otherwise, according to circumstances. 9th. A list of such committees shall be kept by the secretary ; and at every quarterly meeting each com- mittee shall be called upon to report the state of its 29 neighbourhood ; the amount of moneys collected, and the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed or required. 10th. Any member, ceasing to be a member of the religious society of Friends, shall cease to be a member of this Association. PRICES OF BIBLES AND TESTAMENTS. To sub- To Whaole- scribers.| others. sale. No. 1. Common Bible, containing the Old and New Testament, without re- ferences and concordance, bound in plain sheep, - - - |$1 874/$2 50 |$2 25 2. Same Bible, bound in plain calf, | 2 373) 3 00 | 2 75 4. Fine Bible, containing the Old and New Testament, with marginal readings and references, Brown’s concordance, a copious index, and family record, bound in sheep, - - - - | 2 25] 3 00] 2 50 Do. do. 2 vols.| 2 75 | 2 50 | 3 00 5. Same Bible, bound in calf, - | 275] 3 50! 8 00 Do. do. do. 2 vols.| 3 25 | 4 00 | 3 50 Do. do. do. 3 do. | 3 75 | 4 50 | 4 00 New Testament, in plain sheep, - ~~ - 50 60 50 Do. do. - - 314, 373} 313 FORMS OF LEGACY. 1. Form of a Bequest of Personal Estate. ‘¢] give and bequeath to A. B. and C. D. and the gur- vivor of them, and the executors and administrators of such survivor, the sum of in trust for the 30 use of an institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ aud to be paid by the said trustees to the treasurer for the time being of the said institution.” 2. Form of a Devise of Real Estate. ‘‘T give and devise to A. B. and C. D. and their heirs, all that (here describe the property) together with the appurtenances, to hold to them, the said A. B. and C.D. and the survivor of them, and the heirs of such survivor for ever; in trust nevertheless for the sole use and benefit of an institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘ The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and upon this further trust, absolutely to dispose of, and convey the same, either in fee, or for such other estate, and in such way and manner, as the members of the said Association shall, at any meeting or meetings, order, direct, and appoint.” The Depository of the Bible Association is on north Fourth street, a few doors above Arch street. Commu- nications respecting the business of the office may be addressed to the corresponding members, or to Wm. Salter, Agent. bil i, 4) sega a MH Orin 4 wn Oe cet yan aites? ithe 2) j ,a . ; i. nl thtat a fire a « se oo f Mi ‘ae teas nbaohately $0 » * J ber. ae we sangeet, 44 wher ap Meet“? ‘ihe : > ,. “> ag £15 . ee a ta, mark 206 ree’, « Comme- , » oe re may on APPEAL SOCIETY OF FRIENDS, IN BEHALF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. PHILADELPHIA: WILLIAM BROWN, PRINTER. 1832. Span: 11089 1O VTEIOR 7 TEAM VE cha YorrAinoe2s Aaa SAY as = tar. ’ “toa 5 > Pp = OVA, 0 OS ~~, ips PRN TS le a L — rz Meee: i AN APPEAL, &c. Amone the many external blessings which it has pleased a beneficent Creator to bestow upon mankind, there is none which claims a higher degree of excel- lence, or which calls for greater gratitude and more care- ful improvement, than the gift of the Holy Scriptures. This blessed book has conferred greater benefits on the human family, in meliorating their religious, moral, and physical condition, than any other outward cause; and it isa remarkable fact, that no nation can be found, which has made any considerable advances in civiliza- tion, or in the comforts and enjoyments of domestic life, where the precepts and history of the Bible are un- known or not respected. Not only is the style in which it is written, superior to that of any other book, but it treats of subjects vastly more important and interest- ing to man than those of the most finished and elabo- rate treatises on the arts or sciences. Human know- ledge, however diversified or extensive, is limited to the narrow precincts of time, and can only relate to those things which belong to the present short and imperfect state of existence—but the great truths recorded in the Holy Scriptures relate to that life which is to come, and reach forward, beyond the grave, into a never ending eternity. ‘There, we have the inspired record of that holy religion which our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ intro- duced into the world, and which he has appointed as the blessed means for saving the souls of men—for redeem- 4 ing them from the bondage and power of sin, and pre- paring them to become inhabitants of heaven, and par- ticipants of everlasting glory, when the short and tran- sitory period of their earthly pilgrimage is accomplished. As far, therefore, as eternity outweighs time, or as the salvation of one immortal soul exceeds in vast import- ance all the petty concerns of this transient life, so does the value and interest of the Bible exceed that of all books written to promote mere human knowledge. It is scarcely necessary to say that it is our duty as men and as professing Christians; that it is our highest inte- rest as immortal beings, destined to spend an eternity either in misery or happiness, diligently to study, and seriously to ponder, the great truths contained in the Bible. We may be busily engaged in the pursuit of knowledge in the sciences, the arts, or literature, and we may make great proficiency in them; but though these studies are highly proper and useful in their places, yet if we neglect to make ourselves acquaint- ed with the infinitely more important concerns of re- ligion, the other will be of little value to us. They cannot prepare us for death, nor fit us to become inha- bitants of the world of spirits, whither we are hasten- ing, and where we shall all speedily be fixed for ever, either in unchangeable felicity or endless wo. Every day, we behold some one or other of our friends or ac- quaintances, arrested by sickness or death in their swift career—eager, perhaps, in the cultivation of a farm, or in the pursuits of trade, and anxious for the acquisition of wealth or learning; suddenly, the pale messenger comes with his undemiable summons, and calls them away to a country where neither farm, nor trade, nor sci- ence, nor riches can be of any use to them. How many have had to lament, on a dying bed, that they have suffered their minds to be engrossed in these temporal 5 engagements, which, though lawful in themselves, yet when permitted to occupy our attention to the exclu- sion of the things which belong to our soul’s peace, be- come a snare and a curse instead of a blessing. We write not for the immoral and dissolute, and of course say nothing of those sinful practices and pursuits, erro- neously called pleasure, in which too many waste their precious time, to the disgrace of the Christian name, and the ruin of their present and eternal hopes. We would address those who profess an attachment to reli- gion, and manifest a respect for its obligations, by a de- cent observance of its external duties, but in whose hearts the things of this world still have an undue as- cendency. Religion is a daily work—it can never be successful- ly carried on unless it is the primary object of our af- fections and hopes. It is a work of the heart, not merely of the head; and to realize its blessed, soul- saving effects, it must be uppermost in all our thoughts; the constant measure and rule of our conduct, converse, and pursuits in life. ‘The preparation for death and eternity is the great business of life—the most moment- ous concern that can possibly engage our attention, and it demands our first and principal care. But, alas! in- stead of this being the case, how often do we see it ex- actly the reverse. Business, pleasure, husbandry, trade, dress, or some other secondary object, absorbs our at- tention, while the poor soul, and the preparation for death and eternity, are almost totally neglected. ‘Thus year after year passes away—the occasional compunc- tions of conscience are allayed by fruitless resolutions, that by and by, when we shall have accomplished this or the other favourite purpose, or when we shall have accumulated a little more money, we will take the mat- ter up in good earnest, and begin to make preparation 6 for becoming religious. But, alas! in the midst of these “ good resolutions,” death comes along and hurries us into the grave, all unfit as we are, without giving us time to carry even one of them into effect. It is impos- sible for the finite powers of man fully to appreciate the vast difference between time and eternity, or to be ade- quately sensible of the immense importance of one over the other: it may assist us, however, in our endeavours to form a correct estimate of the relative importance of the two states; if, on the one hand, we consider the short and uncertain period of our stay on earth, and the trivial nature of the pursuits which exclusively belong to it, and, on the other hand, frequently and seriously ponder the deep and awful import of the words “ for ever and ever—existence without any end—everlasting felicity and enjoyment—eternal misery and wo, where the worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.” Who that reflects for a single moment on these solemn sub- jects but must awake from his lethargy and indifference, and with anxious, persevering solicitude, and entreaty, put the great questions—* W hat shall I do to be saved?” —* Who shall deliver me from the wrath to come?” In the progress of the work of salvation there are many outward helps aflorded us by our heavenly Fa- ther, to strengthen our feeble faith, animate our droop- ing spirits, and arouse us to increased diligence in the work of righteousness: but among them all, there is none which it has pleased the Holy Spirit more emi- nently to bless and honour, as a means of promoting the glorious work of redemption and sanctification in the souls of men, than the daily and devout study of the Bible. We are far from wishing to convey the idea that the mere reading of the Holy Scriptures, though ever so frequently and properly done, is religion—or will make a man a Christian. The spirit of Christ must 7 operate on the soul to effect this—it can never be ac- complished but by the sanctifying influences of that Baptism which is with the Holy Ghost and fire ;—but we mean to say, that in the ordering of a wise and gra- cious God, the reading and study of the Holy Scrip- tures have been made use of as a means whereby this blessed Spirit has wrought on the hearts of men, more signally and powerfully, and more extensively, than through any other outward medium. Hence it is that we wish affectionately to press on all, the great duty of daily reading and meditating upon some portion of their invaluable contents. We desire especially to press on parents the important duty of bringing up their children in the diligent perusal of the Sacred Volume, and to endeavour to fasten upon their minds the great truths which are therein recorded. ‘This subject en- gaged the close attention of the founders of the Reli- gious Society of Friends. As early as the year 1676, they had two Catechisms published for the Christian instruction of their children; one by Robert Barclay, the other by William Smith; and this primary domestic duty, formed a part of the daily employment in many of their families. Such was the case in the families of William Penn and Isaac Pennington, and the private history of many others would doubtless evince the same pious care. At different periods, the Society has issued advices to its members, encouraging them in the performance of this duty, and experience has fully shown the blessed ef- fects which result from it. Indeed, if parents were as anxious for the souls of their children as they are about their bodies—as earnestly concerned to prepare them for heaven and eternal happiness, as they are to qualify them for shining in the world and securing its perishing riches and honours—there would be no need to invite 8 them to greater diligence and earnestness in the good work of religious education. With what care and as- siduity would they labour to imbue the infant minds of their offspring with the love of piety, to instruct them in the doctrines and precepts of our holy religion, and to make them acquainted in very early life with the in- teresting and instructive pages of Sacred Scripture— they would, in a word, train them for immortality and eternal life, instead of confining their views to the pur- suits and accomplishments of this world. One means which will greatly tend to promote the reading and study of the Bible in families, is the fur- nishing a copy of it, to every child capable of reading it. ‘They should be taught to look upon their bible as a rich treasure—a volume unfolding the most sublime and solemn truths, and containing history and biogra- phy the most interesting of all other books. By this means they will learn to read it with delight, and to an- ticipate with pleasure the returning periods when they will be permitted to sit down to the study of it. Child- ren are imitative creatures, and are powerfully swayed by the example of their parents and instructors. If they perceive that these are deeply interested in the Bi- ble and its precious contents, that they read and ponder it often and much, and are anxious that their children should do the same, they will soon learn to love it, and to read it attentively. Let it then be the care of every parent to see that each of his children has a Bible of its own, printed on good paper with large type, and by ex- ample and precept, as well as every winning expedient, draw them to read, admire, and revere the doctrines and precepts which it teaches. In order to exhibit more fully the views of the Socie- ty of Friends on the subject of the Holy Scriptures, and the duty of instructing children in them, we sub- 9 join the following extracts from the Epistles it has is- sued; namely— “We recommend it as an incumbent duty on Friends, to cause their children to be frequent in reading the Holy Scriptures, and to observe to them the examples of such children, as in Scripture are recorded to have early learned the fear of the Lord, and hearkened to his counsels; instructing them in the fear and dread of the Lord, planting upon their spirits impressions of re- verence toward God, from whom they have their daily support, showing them they ought not to offend Him, but love, serve, and honour Him, in whose hand all blessings are.”—1709. “Inasmuch as the Holy Scriptures are the external means of conveying and preserving to us an account of the things most surely to be believed, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in the flesh, and the fulfilling of the prophecies relating thereto, we there- fore recommend to all Friends, especially elders in the church, and masters of families, that they would, both by example and advice, impress on the minds of the younger, a reverent esteem of those sacred writings, and advise them to a frequent reading and meditating therein.” —1723. “ We earnestly and tenderly advise that mothers of children, as well as fathers, as they have frequently the best opportunities, would take particular care to in- struct them in the knowledge of religion and the Holy Scriptures; because it has been found by experience, that good impressions, early made on the tender minds of children, have proved a lasting means of preserving them in a religious life and conversation.” —1731. “We tenderly and earnestly advise and exhort all parents and masters of families, that they exert them- 2 10 selves in the wisdom of God, and in the strength of his love, to instruct their children and families in the doc- trines and precepts of the Christian religion contained in the Holy Scriptures, and that they excite them to the diligent reading of those sacred writings, which plainly set forth the miraculous conception, birth, holy life, won- derful works, blessed example, meritorious death, and glorious resurrection, ascension, and mediation of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ; and to educate their children in the belief of these important truths, as well as in the belief of the inward manifestation and opera- tion of the Spirit of God on their own minds, that they may reap the benefit and advantage thereof, for their own peace and everlasting happiness, which is infinite- ly preferable to all other considerations. We therefore exhort, in the most earnest manner, that all be very careful in this respect; a neglect herein being, in our judgment, very blameworthy.”—1732. “ And, dear friends, as much as in you lies, encou- rage a frequent and diligent reading of the Holy Scrip- tures in your families. In them are contained the pro- mises of eternal life and salvation. For, as a steady trust and belief in the promises of God, and a frequent meditation in the law of the Lord, were the preserva- tion of a remnant in old time, so it is even to this day. And, as a distrust and disbelief of the promises of God, and a neglect of his holy law, were the occasion of the complaints made against the Jews, the posterity of Abraham; even so we have reason to fear that the ap- parent declension, in our time, of true piety and godly zeal, in many places, is too much owing to a disregard of the doctrines of the Holy Scriptures, and the pro- mises of the Holy Spirit in them recorded.”—1740. “We think it especially necessary at this time, to re- mind you of the former advices of this meeting, respect- 11 ing a frequent and diligent reading of the Holy Scrip- tures: the doctrines contained in these inspired writings, duly attended to, and firmly impressed upon the minds of our young people, may be a means of preserving them from the danger and infection of such corrupt and irreligious principles, as, having a tendency to the exal- tation of self and human abilities, would lessen their dependence on the power and Spirit of God, their only security and preservation.”—1743. “ As the right education of children and the nurture of youth is of very great consequence to them and to the succeeding generation, we pressingly exhort all pa- rents and heads of families, to procure such useful learn- ing for their children as their abilities will admit, and to encourage them, as well by example as precept, to the frequent reading of the Holy Scriptures; and that they begin as early as possible, to instil into their ten- der minds the principles of truth and virtue, and in- struct them in the nature and necessity of being born from above, without which, our Lord declared, no man shall see the kingdom of God.”—1760. “We entreat all parents, seriously to lay to heart the great and lasting importance of a religious education to their offspring, and to be more solicitous that their ten- der minds may be impressed with virtuous principles, and early directed into the path of purity, by which they may obtain the pearl of great price, than to provide for them superfluous and uncertain riches, [which are] fre- quently the sorrowful means of their declension and ruin.” —1766. “We believe there is an increased attention in Friends in various parts, not only to promote in their families the frequent reading of the Holy Scriptures, but to make it the employment of a portion of time daily. We com- mend this practice, and we believe that if the heads of 12 families are careful in cultivating the Seed of Truth in themselves, there will be so little danger of the custom be- coming formal, that it will not unfrequently be the means of quickening the minds of those concerned in it: more especially if a subsequent pause be allowed, in order that the sacred truths which have been read, may have time to make their due impression on the mind, or that the mind may have time to rise in secret aspiration after a blessing.” —1807. «Tt has afforded us much satisfaction to believe that the Christian practice of daily reading in families a portion of Holy Scripture, with a subsequent pause for retirement and reflection, is increasing amongst us. We vonceive that it is both the duty and the interest of those who be- lieve in the doctrines of the Gospel, and who possess the invaluable treasure of the Sacred Records, frequently to recur to them for instruction and consolation. We are desirous that this wholesome domestic regulation may be adopted every where. Heads of families who have them- selves experienced the benefit of religious instruction will do well to consider whether, in this respect, they have not a duty to discharge to their children and others of their household. Parents, looking sincerely for help to Him of whom these Scriptures testify, may not unfre- quently, on such occasions, feel themselves enabled and engaged to open to the minds of their interesting charge, the great truths of Christian duty and Christian redemp- tion.”—1815. In conformity with the views thus repeatedly expressed by the society of Friends, a number of its members, im- pressed with a belief that there existed in some of its re- mote sections a great deficiency of the Holy Scriptures, formed themselves into an association for the purpose of printing and distributing the Bible gratuitously among Friends. The objects they had in view, were to furnish, 13 at a moderate price, a better and more complete edition of the Bible than had before been published in this coun- try—to increase the number of Bibles in the families of Friends, and encourage the frequent and serious perusal of them; and, through the medium of auxiliary associa- tions, to ascertain and supply deficiencies wherever they existed. As far as the limited means of the Association have permitted them to proceed, the most satisfactory and encouraging results have attended their labours. About 4,100 copies of the Holy Scriptures, and 2,800 copies of the New Testament have been disposed of, and a large proportion of these have been forwarded to distant and newly settled countries, where Bibles were extremely scarce. It has been peculiarly gratifying to observe, that since the new editions have been circulated among Friends, a fresh interest seems to have been excited, among our young people, in the study of scripture lessons, and many are turning their attention to the subject with an earnestness and zeal which promise the happiest effects. While we are far from wishing to arrogate to the As- sociation any merit which is not its just due—when we view its operations thus far, and the success which has at- tended them, we cannot but believe that the Divine bless- ing has rested on the undertaking, and that its labours have been essentially useful within the limited sphere of its operations. Our anxious dtsire now is, that these im- portant benefits may be extended to our brethren of other sections of the country, more generally than they have yet been, and to do this we wish to promote the establish- ment of auxiliary associations within the limits of every Quarterly Meeting of Friends in America, and through their active co-operation, to ascertain all existing deficien- cies, and collect funds for enabling the Parent Institution promptly to supply them—always keeping in view the leading fact, that no supply of the Bible can be considered as adequate, which does not put a copy into the possession 14 of every person capable of reading it. The views of the Association have been fully developed in the official docu- ments which have been issued from time to time—and, in order to bring them fully before our readers, we invite their attention to the following interesting extracts. Extract from the Address issued 1st month, 1829. “ Yet, notwithstanding the care which has thus been exercised, it is be- lieved that some portions of our Society on this Continent, have been and still are, but scantily supplied with copies of the Bible. This is, no doubt, to be attributed, originally, to the peculiar situation of the first settlers in a new country, struggling with hardships, and often without the means of obtaining any thing beyond the supply of their mere physical wants. It is accordingly in the newly settled and remote districts that the defi- ciency is the most obvious and lamentable. In some older and more po- pulous neighbourhoods also, where these privations are no longer felt, the same deficiency in the proper supply of the Scriptures is to be re- gretted. A single copy, and that of an unwieldy size, is often all that is to be found in a large family. It is not probable, where such is the case, that the rising generation will make the Scriptures their study and delight, nor can any other consequence be expected from it, than a pre- valent indifference to, as well as an ignorance of, the historical facts, doctrines, and precepts contained in Scripture. Friends in the ministry, who have travelled extensively through America, bear witness of the deficiency ‘to which we have adverted; the natural effects of which, have been such as were to be anticipated. We have all witnessed with sorrow, the delusion which has drawn so many into a denial of the di- vinity, propitiation, and mediation of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Shall we not then, while the mournful events of the few past years are fresh in our recollection and still present with us, endeavour to guard against their recurrence, as far as can be done by the means which are within our power? One of these, we are persuaded, is a more general and accurate acquaintance with the Holy Scriptures, and a more dili- gent and frequent perusal of them, both in the closet and in families. It is believed that no outward means, would, under the divine blessing, have a more powerful tendency to check the growing spirit of levity and scepticism, so obvious amongst many of the youth, than the daily, serious perusal of the Bible; comparing parallel passages, and thus 15 making the sacred penmen each other’s commentators; illustrating the prophecies by the record of their fulfilment; and consulting the narra- tives of the same facts by different historians. Had such a course of reading been generally pursued in the families of Friends, and proper care been taken by parents to interest and inform the minds of their children, respecting the doctrines of the Christian faith, many, who are now unhappily perplexed with the doubts and difficulties of unbelief, might have been saved from the labyrinth in which they are involved. © *‘ Impressed with these considerations, we have formed ourselves into an association by the name of ‘“‘ The Bible Association of Friends in America,” and we invite and anticipate your cordial co-operation in our labours. To those who may be disposed to ask whether the ends we have in view, would not be as well or better attained by a union with other religious denominations, who are engaged in this truly Christian labour, it will be a sufficient reply, that the present peculiar condition of our religious society appears to us to require a union and concentra- tion of our exertions among ourselves. Those ends, moreover, could not be fully gained by individual association with any other body, not knowing, and not organized for providing for, the wants of our own members. Our efforts will be directed, in the first place, to printing and furnishing to the members of our religious society, an octavo Bible, in large type, on fine paper and with marginal references, a good concord- ance and family record. However singular it may appear, it is believed to be a fact, that, notwithstanding the numerous reprints of the Bible which have been recently published in this country, there is not now extant any octavo edition, in clear large type, and on good paper, con- taining the valuable marginal references of Canne, and Brown’s con- cordance, both which are found to be of great practical utility in the profitable perusal of the sacred volume. It may also be remarked, that many of the Bibles and Testaments used in schools are in a small type, and printed on paper of inferior quality, which render them very diffi- cult for children to read, especially such as are beginning to learn. A distaste for the sacred writings is often thus acquired, merely from the form in which they are presented, before the child is of an age duly to appreciate the preciousness of their contents. An edition in a good clear type, and on a fair paper, suitable for the use of schools, and withal at a moderate price, is also an important desideratum. “The means by which we propose to carry our views into effect, will be found to be simple and comprehensive. The managers of the pa- rent Association will be entrusted with its general concerns. It is proposed that the business of distribution should be placed princi- pally with the auxiliary societies, one at least of which, we hope to see formed in every Quarterly Meeting throughout the Continent. The terms of subscription, in the auxiliary societies, will be left en- tirely to the judgment and convenience of the Friends who form them. Every auxiliary will be expected to remit its contributions to the treasurer of the general association, and will be entitled to receive the whole amount of its contributions in Bibles or Testaments at the Society's lowest prices. Any member of the Society of Friends in Ame- rica, contributing thirty dollars in one payment, or three dollars per an- num, whether to the general or an auxiliary association, shall be consi- dered a member of the Bible Association. And every member of this Association, or of any auxiliary, shall be entitled to a return of one half the amount of his annual or life subscription, in Bibles or Testaments, at such prices as the committee may establish. “ A copy of the constitution is herewith annexed, as well as a set of rules for the organization of auxiliary associations, which is recommend- ed to the consideration of Friends about to form them; a uniform plan being very desirable. “In the humble hope that the divine blessing may rest upon our endea- yours, we recommend these views to the serious consideration of our fellow-nembers throughout this Continent, and earnestly solicit their countenance and co-operation.” Extract from the Circular issued by the Corresponding Committee, lst month, 1830. “ From the well known fact, that the Society of Friends has so long and earnestly recommended to its members the frequent reading of the Holy Scriptures, and that care has been taken in some places to supply such families as were known to be destitute of them, it has been sup- posed, by some persons, that the establishment of a Bible association among Friends, was not necessary, aud that its labours must be very li- mited. But, independently of the obligation we are under to contri- bute our aid in the general distribution of the Sacred Volume, there is reason to believe, from recent personal inquiry, that a much greater de- ficiency of these invaluable writings exists among our own members, than is generally imagined. An examination lately made within some por- 17 tions of the Yearly Meeting of Philadelphia, has disclosed the painful fact, that there are individuals and families under our name, who are des- titute of the Sacred Volume; while in some other Yearly Meetings the de- ficiency is still greater. Friends who have travelled extensively over this Continent, and had ample opportunities of personal inspection, bear wit- ness to the fact, that there are many families, in our Society, who are without a complete copy of the Bible; and supplies of the Scriptures, to.a limited extent, have actually been purchased with funds liberally remitted by Friends in England, and sent into several sections of the country. Facts, of an indisputable character, which have come under the notice of the committee, place it beyond a doubt, that while Friends have been issuing repeated recommendations to their members to be di- ligent in the perusal of those invaluable records, there has actually been a want of Bibles to read. We trust it is only necessary to allude to these painful facts, to convince every well concerned Friend, that it is our duty to take efficient measures for remedying an evil, which, if suf- fered to continue, cannot fail to produce the most injurious conse- quences. “When we look at the situation of many of our brethren who live in remote parts of the country, where books are scarce and dear, and mo- ney difficult to be procured; and whose daily wants require the whole of the little they can earn—who have large families of children grow- ing up around them, many of whom do not possess a perfect copy of the Holy Scriptures; it certainly presents a strong claim on our benevolent and Christian feelings, to contribute our portion towards supplying them with a book, which, of all others, is best calculated to promote their mo- ral and religious improvement. “If these considerations are permitted to have due weight, we appre- hend they must produce a general and cordial concurrence in the views of the Association, and convince Friends that it is our duty to prosecute this undertaking without delay. It is hoped, that the head of every fa- mily of Friends will so far accord therewith, as to present a copy of our Bible to each of his children, who may be of an age to read it; enjoining, as the condition of so valuable a gift, the daily perusal of some portion of its excellent contents—a practice, from which permanent benefits may be anticipated. *‘ Should the labours of the Association happily be productive of so ge- neral a circulation of the Sacred Volume, it is believed that many thou- sand copies will be required to supply the demand. The edition which 2 Is the Association proposes to publish will possess such advantages over those now to be obtained, as respects the size and clearness of the type, the marginal references and copious index, as to make it desirable that even those who possess others, should be supplied with copies of it. In order to enable the Association to do this, and also to meet the wants of those who are entirely destitute, liberal aid from Friends in affluent cir- cumstances will be necessary. “It is desirable that an auxiliary association should be formed, as ear- ly as practicable, in every Quarterly Meeting on this Continent; for it must be through the agency of these that the parent Association is made acquainted with the wants of Friends in different sections of the coun- try. It will be perceived by the “ Rules for the Government of Auxi- liary Associations,” printed with the constitution and address, that the subscription required to entitle to membership in them, is left to the dis- cretion of Friends where they may be formed. It is not expected that it will exceed ten dollars in one payment, or one dollar annually, and in some places it may be expedient to make it less than this. While the smallness of the subscription will thus place the right of membership within the reach of all, we trust it will not prevent those who are weal- thy from making liberal contributions. Thirty dollars in one payment, or three dollars annually, will make a Friend a member, not only of an auxiliary, but also of the parent Association. “Tt cannot be expected that those whose means are small, will give largely; but even a very moderate sum, such as most persons could con- veniently spare, if paid regularly, would defray the expense of a large number of Bibles. Thus, if each family of Friends in America would be willing to contribute one dollar, annually, for five years, it would probably produce a sum sufficient to enable the Society to accomplish the primary objects which it has in view. “ Should it appear that there is not a large number of Friends in a Quar- terly Meeting, who feel disposed, at the present time, to unite in forming an auxiliary association, it need not discourage such as are favourable to the measure, from taking proper steps for facilitating this important and desirable object. Five or siz members are sufficient to commence an auxr- iliary; and wherever this number can be obtained, we would encourage them to organize themselves, and to make inquiry into the deficiency which may exist in their respective meetings, and open a correspond- ence with the parent Institution, in order that the requisite supply of Bibles may be obtained. 19 ** We believe, that as this course is steadily pursued, the members and funds of such auxiliaries will gradually increase, and the benefits re- sulting from their Christian labours will be so apparent, that Friends generally will become desirous of giving their aid in a work, which, we think, cannot fail to be blessed to the Society. “If fifty auxiliary societies are established, and each contributes, year- ly, an average of only one hundred dollars, the sum thus remitted to the parent Association would be five thousand dollars, annually. When it is recollected that the whole amount transmitted by auxiliaries may be obtained by them in Bibles and Testaments, to distribute within their own limits ; and that to some of the remote Quarterly Meetings it will be necessary to send a much larger number of Bibles than the funds col- lected by them will pay for, we hope that auxiliaries, whose members are in easy circumstances, will be encouraged to make liberal remit- tances to the parent Association. ‘ .T .eodT , Tobwoasg siqeeo% , bie Ht (ace geaisteoy .§ aio, ermal ll WT eg O25 esaciquate yote fa , 'etoah if ot ,rfollM@ ent OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION. D _ SAMUEL MASON, Jr., Secretary, HENRY COPE, Treasurer, [a4 Beate ooo be TO Thos. P. Cope, Joseph Snowdon, Benj. H. Warder, John G, Hoskins, George Williams, Blakey Sharpless, gerh, Hacker, Jno, Elliott, de ; | | OF . + TO THE | | "~~ BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS | o IN AMERICA, i. | gree “The Boara of Weitagers sibmi t their twelfth | Amnual Report, | © *Sinee the last “Report, theme have been is- sued from the Depository 1164 Bibles & 52I Tes- tanientsy or which number 235 Bibles and I52 Tes- a ‘sold to Auxiliaries, | "An edition of I000 twelve mo. Testaments Was been printed within the year and an edition 6f 1000 copies of the 24 mo. Bible has been or- | dered to be printed and is under way. “©The stock of books on hand consists of pound volums as follow, viz: Pcopasenor’s the 8 vo. Bible without references, floaxieh + = LJ with nw aie 24 mo, ” —_ — © - Testaments oT oF “SisG] Pome, do in Sheets. pies of the 8 vo. Bible without references. Soot. sci _* with " mere fee. eReome,©6—C* | pom TS 98 " ' Testaments 7 Le m I2 mo, 8 From the Treasurers account it appears ne the balance on hand 4M0. 1840 received $2619. 30, from the following rees, viz: lle "OBI Balance on hand 4M0. Srd.1840 $756.05 Recd, from Auxiliaries in payment 793.68 * " ditto donations 65, ¢ * Sales of Bibles & Testaments 822,57 " script toto 332.6 . SRR? or RASTA Ea etatg Seee8 siete “diel 2619 The payments have amounted to 1876,¢ Leaving in his hands 35M0,51,1641 a: - balance of 742 Reports have been reca, iliaries, viz: Philada,, New ¥ Concord, Cornwall, Westfield, River and Haddonfield,» Eight of these natin that 498 Bibles and 389 Testaments have been distributed by them during, the past» year, of which were gratuitously disposed,of,. A of them give particular answers «towthe Quer: From the Report of one Auxiliary we the following rextract "When opportunities he che: HOLY. S601 °Saoe Be SOR EaD the Holy Scriptures in e * original design of our Assdciationyythey _ been supplied therewith but the situation of members of Society generally within our dimt is such as to preclude the mecessity of aid: this respect, Little has therefore been don the way of distribution since our last Yrom the causes alluded to, it»eissebvious» our operations ‘must necessarily ber very much circumscribed within our limits, furnishing little information to commnieate; yet if are impressed with a proper sense of therob gations we are under to a kind Providence the many favours and blessings we enjoy, a responsibility they devolve upon us, We,sr cherish.a disposition to sympathise with, ou fellow members in less fayoured: circumstar and be stimulated to persevere in-aiding,wi benevolent and Christian work of placing in their hands copies of the sacred Scriptures, from nine Au / We have transmitted during the:past year Sixty Dolls, to the Bible Association of Friends — in America for the purpose of furnishing Friends — in destitute circumstances: with copies of the | Holy: Seriptures," . One Auxiliary states that "We: have but to communicate, but we can say that we el a lively interest our salvation now, any more than in would in the time when our Saviour informed the! jews). “ye search the Scriptures for in them ye: think) ye have eternal life; and they are they which?) testify of me, but ye will not” comexto me that, ye might have life" yet being sensible of the beneficial results springing fransa knowledge): of their contents through feith in: the Lord: Jesus, we are desirous Senshesrtqaie them to. extent of our means, * veere) Of J weer One states "In offering agaim our Annvaly Report, we feel that we have but» litte to) com> muniecate that will be either interesting or em couraging to, the cause in which you have beeng? and in which we hope you will still continue.to be so justly engaged, “Our Quarterly Meeting« still continues small, being composed of onlyw aboutI0O families; the most ofwhich appear toy be pretty well furnished with the Scripturesy,. And we believe that no family is»entirelyrdes+ titute, though several individuals @apable of | reading, remain yet unfurnished with separate» copies,® © §% De «es / <6 wee atifeceh on SO Another reports that "Righty families andy individuals have been gratuitously, furnishedyn with the Holy Seriptures since the establishes ment of our Auxiliary, though none within, past year, Yrourteen families of Friends our limits appear to be destitute of the Seriptures and about 305 members of our & within our limits capable of reading the Bi who do not owl @ copy. The income of tie iary is insufficient to supply those within 7 ‘limits who are not duly was the He Scrip tures,* : ivi One mentions, that “there are now 250 families within our limits all of which furnished with a copy of the Holy Scriptures - and most of them have @ Rible with notes &r ferences" Our Schools are pretty — : with Bibles & Testaments," » The amount of the sinking pad @ the I a ‘/~ . a” H of the 3rd, month last was $3,456 63/100, and _ the mortgage debt on the building at that date | $7,000. _ °° [tis the opinion of the Managers that | there would be an advantage in having a smaller poard and reducing the mamber required to trans: | aet its concerns, they therefore propose that | the 6th, Article of the Constitution be amended |\%by striking out "twenty four® and inserting "fifteen", and that the word "nine"® in the 9th. Article be changed to "seven", and to mke the )@onstitution conform to the existing state of |) things that the word "Committee" in the 6th, Article be altered to "Managers" the latter ‘being the title of the Executive Body and nota Committee as it was originally, Some Embarrass- ment has arisen in the mode prescribed in the 8th. Article respecting payments by the Trea- surer to obviate which it is proposed to leave out these words "the number on which checks shall correspond with the number on the order." "Arrangements are in progress to supply | several of the distant Auxiliaries, with Bibles for Gratuitous distribution to those who are destitute and require such aid, out of the funds Placed at the disposal of the Managers for the purpose, By direction and on behalf of the Managers. Philada, 4M0. I5th, IS84I. Sac! John Carter, £ ir | Secretary, — 7 os -—@ iibitgg en? no o &s ‘- etexeaneM en¢ to aotnigo 6? ef 27 ® gaived at taetauevie ot be wispent wecemm ea? getesghee bas orcqgoTtTy evetoter? you? c Od geléeeeitenad en? Poe ‘veent bow re? Wages? + al *ente® Soo ene? io of Dew ,*seves® of iqqve 6? esetger® dig dtte ,seteustiinat oe ofw sso? of eo. ? te ¢ce bho 4. wleotcel aff bo isseqee > @rnte > a sos’ eff to tiekw = Go [I <2: .c peel er ef or oe of? paitetee ed? OF aruotuap Js10m1 obte eit? ' Sceb epanttom ef 3 2000, ; ¢ > j - A kh metteorth (ze * ca ‘ ate _ Teel aie, os : . Tetete o8 > ‘eae ae ‘ ; ' a * its wre, *v ry i . 7 > ay -— SS aSaagagaa.e_QveujaQaYS —— THE THIRTEENTH ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA: READ AT THE ANNUAL MEETING, HELD ON THE EVENING OF THE EIGHTEENTH OF FOURTH MONTH, 1842. PHILADELPHIA: JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, PRINTER, BIBLE DEPOSITORY BUILDING, No. DO NORTH FOURTH STREET. OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION. SAMUEL BETTLE, JR., Secrerary. HENRY COPE, Treasurer. CORRESPONDING MEMBERS. JOHN PAUL, THOMAS KIMBER. THOMAS EVANS, MANAGERS. THOMAS P. COPE, JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, JOSEPH SNOWDON, TOWNSEND SHARPLESS, BENJAMIN H. WARDER, URIAH HUNT, JOHN G. HOSKINS, JOHN CARTER, GEORGE WILLIAMS, GEORGE G. WILLIAMS, BLAKEY SHARPLESS, WM. M. COLLINS, JEREMIAH HACKER, PAUL W. NEWHALL. JOHN ELLIOTT, TO THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. Tue Board of Managers present their thirteenth Annual Report. 7 Since last Report, there have been issued from the Depo- sitory, 1136 Bibles and 621 Testaments; of which 285 Bibles and 143 Testaments were sold to auxiliaries; 60 Bibles and 46 Testaments sent to auxiliaries on sale; and 159 Bibles and 142 Testaments furnished auxiliaries for gratuitous distribu- tion among Friends in indigent circumstances. Several auxiliaries with whom Bibles and Testaments have been de- posited on sale, were authorised to draw from the stock on hand, and distribute as above to a specified amount. An edition of 1000 copies of the 24mo. Bible in press a year ago, has been finished ; also 2000 copies of the 12mo. Testa- ment have been printed within the year; and an edition of 1000 copies of the Reference Bible is now in progress, and will soon be completed. Previous to putting these editions to press, the Stereotype plates were carefully examined, cor- rected and repaired, It is anticipated, that the great improve- ment in the appearance of the paper, and in the printing of our late editions, both of the Bible and of the New Testament, will induce a more extended sale, as well as make them more acceptable to the recipients, when distributed gratuitously. The stock of books on hand the Ist instant, was as follows, viz :-— 49 copies of the 8vo Bible without references, 133 c “c “ with “6 444 « 24mo ‘“ bound, 430 « “ ‘Testament, 74 «« 12mo é¢ le ee a iin, 4 164 copies of the 8vo Bible without references, 32 “ “ “ with “ 607 * 24mo “ in sheets. 925 * “ Testament, 500 « 12mo és The Treasurer’s Account shows, that including the balance in his hands at last settlement, he has received $2816.06, from the following sources, viz :— Balance on hand third mo. 31st, 1842, . . . . . $742.83 Ree’d from auxiliary Associations, on acc’t. $ 569.67 Do. do. donations, 82.50 Do. do. to supply indigent Friends with ma = Annual Subscriptions, . . . . . 120.00 Sales of Bibles and Testaments, - 1111.06 Dotatoss, "ss a 8. he el eee 2073.23 $ 2816.06 we ee The payments amount to $ 2519.33, viz: Salary to Agent, . . ... . . + $250.00 Por reaper, 30%. 6. o 0 6 ehREee OO Two years’ Insurance on Papill Books, &c. 52.00 Miscellaneous expenses, . . . ~- . + 68.17 Binding, . .. . 2 os | otis) C8B14 Repairing Stereotype Plates, o's Gil. SPRRAT Printing, «© «© 2 «). 2 os) Oe) 6 260.60 2519.33 Ralance due the Association 4th mo. 12, 1842, . . . 296.73 3 2816.06 — Reports have been received from ten auxiliaries, viz: Philadelphia, New York, Purchase, Cornwall, Concord, Had- donfield, Blue River, White Lick, Westfield, and Duanesburg. They do not all give distinct answers to the queries, but from such as do, it appears that about 223 Bibles and 95 3 Testaments, have been distributed by them during the past year; most of which were gratuitously disposed of. One report mentions, that “the wants of all applicants are promptly supplied.” Another, that “There is no family of Friends within our limits, that have not a Bible; but there are many families that do not possess a copy for each of its members.” One says, “ We feel grateful that it has been in our power to be in some measure useful in aiding in spreading the Holy Scriptures, and of bringing to the dwellings of the destitute of our own religious Society, this precious book. There are three or four families not duly supplied with a copy of the Holy Scriptures; at least fifty members capable of reading, that do not own a copy. ‘The income of the auxiliary is not sufficient to supply those within its limits, who are not duly furnished with the Holy Scriptures.” One auxiliary states, “ When opportunities have presented for the gratuitous distribution of the Holy Scriptures in accord- ance with the original design of our Association, they have been embraced. Little has been done in the way of distribu- tion since our last report, in consequence of the members of Society within our limits, being so situated as to preclude the necessity of aid in this respect. Notwithstanding we have been enabled to do but little in relation to distributing the Holy Scriptures, owing to causes above alluded to, yet we entertain a hope, that the important objects for which the parent Association, as well as this auxiliary were formed, are advancing. If we properly appreciate the manifold blessings so liberally bestowed upon us by a boun- tiful Creator, we shall be impressed with a sense of the respon- sibility that rests upon us, and be prepared to sympathize with our fellow members who are less favoured, and thereby stimu- lated to persevere in aiding in the benevolent and Christian work, of placing within their reach, copies of the Holy Scriptures,” ) | le a a 6 The following is an extract from one of the reports: “In attempting to offer you our annual report, we fear that we shall not be able to give you much encouragement in, as we conceive, your very laudable object. We are sorry to say, that our members of this auxiliary are decreasing, instead of increasing. It is painful to behold so many of our friends, who are in affluent circumstances, so backward in contribut- ing to the object of the diffusing the beneficial reading of the Holy Scriptures. Our number of members consists of only eleven at present; we feel almost discouraged when convened in our small meetings for the purpose of the concerns of our aux- iliary, but we are encouraged to perseverance, by the evidence that the concern is owned by the great Head of the Church. We believe that each family of Friends, and the schools within our limits are pretty well supplied with a copy of the Holy Scriptures; though a large number of our youth, per- haps 250, who are capable of reading them, are not supplied.” From another: “ Eight families of Friends not duly supplied with a copy of the Holy Scriptures, and about 300 capable of reading the Bible, who do not own a copy. The income of the auxiliary is insufficient to supply those within its limits, who are not duly supplied with a copy of the Holy Scriptures.” One report says, “ We believe there is no family of Friends amongst us, destitute of the Holy Scriptures; and although there is a considerable number of our children capable of reading, who do not own a separate copy; yet we believe there are none but what have free access to them.” Another: “ Although the smallness of our means prevents our doing much; yet we believe if we are rightly engaged therein, we shall still find opportunities for usefulness, sufficient to keep alive our interest in the work. We therefore desire, that our auxiliary may yet continue quietly but faithfully to discharge the duties devolving upon it.” * * Since the foregoing Report was adopted, a communication has been received from another Auxiliary, by which it appears, that there are with- ho mw pet hy Dew 7 Four thousand Dollars has been paid on account of the mortgage on the Real Estate of the Association; leaving $3.000 due thereon at the close of the year 1841. The Sink- ing fund at that time, amounted to $468.88. We have received official information, that the late Joseph Ely of Philadelphia, has bequeathed $1.000 to the Associa- tion, to be paid on the decease of his widow. The Managers cannot conclude their report, without offer- ing a word of encouragement to those in remote situations, who may find few disposed to co-operate in the important service which devolves upon the members of the auxiliary Associa- tions. May such be afresh engaged, affectionately to set before Friends in their respective neighbourhoods, the responsibility in it limits, comprising 380 families, 692 individuals, including twelve families not supplied with the Holy Scriptures. It is proper to remark here, that the individuals spoken of as not supplied, are generally children and young persons; a large proportion, or perhaps nearly all of whom, re- side in families where there are Bibles, and of course have ready access to the sacred volume, though they do not themselves own acopy. It has been the desire of the Association, that every person, young and old, who can read, should possess a copy of the sacred volume; and the statements above alluded to, are made in answer to a query put forth by the Associa- tion, with a view of turning the attention of the Auxiliaries to this class, many of whom are apprentices or boarders in Friends’ families. In looking back, over the Reports forwarded in former years, it is plea- sant to observe, that the deficiencies reported have greatly diminished, notwithstanding the rapid increase of the Society in remote settlements where books are scarce and costly. We trust that Friends everywhere, will be animated by these favourable results, with fresh interest and zeal in this work, to make a thorough search into the condition of the members of every meeting, especially among the obscure and straitened, and take the requisite measures to secure a full supply of Bibles for all. In this labour of love, opportunities may offer to encourage the daily and serious vocal reading of the Holy Scriptures in families, with a suitable silent pause before and after; a practice which has been blessed to many, and which it is hoped Friends will be engaged to promote by their example as well as advice. =) OS —— cet 8 of their standing, and how much they owe to each other, and especially to the youth, in this respect. “From a child,” says the Apostle, in writing to his beloved Timothy, “thou hast known the Holy Scriptures;” and how many have had in after life to acknowledge as a blessing, an early and intimate ac- quaintance with the contents of the sacred volume. Things that were written aforetime, were written for our learning and admonition, that we “through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” How precious is the feeling, when the saving truths they record are opened to the mind, by Him whose love warmed the hearts of his humble and sorrowing disciples in primitive days, as He walked with them by the way, and opened to them the Scriptures. We believe the labours of this Association have been the means of good to many, and that with suitable efforts, it is capable, under the Divine blessing, of much more extensive usefulness. In referring to that portion of the younger members of So- ciety who are not individually supplied with copies of the Holy Scriptures, we desire that no proper effort may be want- ing on our part, to supply this deficiency; but that Friends may faithfully endeavour, in their families and neighbourhoods, to promote the diffusion and daily reading of the Holy Scrip- tures, “ which are able to make wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” Signed by direction and on behalf of the Managers. JOHN CARTER, Secretary. Philadelphia, Fourth month 13th, 1842. Prices of Bibles and Testaments. Size of Ino. of | No. of annie eh Retail 0. lari ote, | Bible. | Vols. How Bound. Subscribers | Price. & B’ksellers a Bible, without References,| 8vo. |No. 1\1 vol. Best sheep 1 75 do. 24mo. |No. 2/1 vol. f 75 | Fine Bible, with Ref., Fam. Record, Index & Concordance. 8yo. No. 41 vol. do. 2 00 Do. do. do. do. |2 vols. do. 2 50 Do. do. do. " do. |3 vols. do. 3 00 i Do. do. do. “« {No. 5/1 vol. Calf 2 50 | Do. do. do. “ 2 vols. do. 3 50 i Do. do. do. . 3 vols. do. 4 50 . Do. without References, &c.,/24mo. |No. 6|1 vol. |Best shp., raised bands} 1 00 i ag do. 1 vol, | Calf embossed 2 50 | do. “ | do. |Lvol.| do. do. & gilt edges! 3 00 eapertine Bible, with Ref, F. Rec., [ Index & Concord. 8vo. No. 8}1 vol. Calf 6 25 } Do. do. do. do. |2 vols. do. 7 00 ’ Do. do. do. « | do. [3 vols. do. 8 00 q Do. do. do. = do. |2 vols. Muslin 5 00 ' Common Testament, - - - o. Best sheep 50 fi Do. ee ss 5s Half bound 374 ; Do. - - - {24mo. In skiver 95 Fine Testament,- - - ~~ * do. 313 Do. oh Se a s Best a? — bar 50 Do. - - . - fe er encbos 1 00 Do. a. te = ° “ do. & giltedges, 1 25 Do. eee.

= “ 7 es book form | 1 00 . ali > o- _ : 7 ell Ae pineal 2 Oe ee tig dow HODITA Io0Ss HE GO 2HBnITIH | | ae eYtHteis92 ..%% ,aITTaR JRUMAS OF THE PO Oe OD ee ee nual Report L Since the first of the sre have been issued from ibles & 347. Testaments; 68 Testaments were sold to ibles & 28-Testaments were gratuitous distribution \F @ircumstances c To 2 7 es 2, 000 of the I2 mo, letea. | re; was Bogrnies of the 8 vo, , F. i : qtobiee of the 8 vo, ry . 24 mo, +< 2 mo. 24 mo, 12 mo. TO 3 H.2@!. BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. ———_——100 The Board of Managers submit the following fourth month [842 the Depository, 580 which I02 Bibles & Auxiliaries & 24 furnished Auxiliaries among Friends in in- of medition of 1000 copies of the Reference @ in press a year ago, has been finished. Ont Testament has been prin- ea a one of 2,000 of the 24 md. Bible & 500 of he 24 mo. Testament is ye eae" % . nearly com _ The bil a of os on cae the ousted in- Bible without references, with do " ‘bound Testament do Bible without references. * with do ¥ : in sheet; Testament do The Treasurers account shows the followir viz: Receipts, Balance on hand 4M0,.I3. 1842 $296. Reed. from and Liars Asso .on a/e 319.52 dei. -%> donation» 16,00 - ° Annual gubseriptions 114.00 " Loans A” 2 6700.00 : " Sales pibles&Testaments 639,29 1788 ——- + ee eats een 2085.5 \ Payments, Salary to Agent 7 _. , . $75.00 For Paper oe A Fe Printing ee Insurance on Paper Books etc, ar 00° ; Binding ete. | . 233,83 a Miscellaneous expenses "= ~~ ‘50.16 * a On account of loan ~ = ; * aera. Balance due the Association 4M0. To. 1843. ‘272 ~ 2083. "Reports have been ‘reeeived from I3 ixtid ries, -vizs Philadelphia, New York, © Cornwall ,& Purchase, N. Ye, Concord, Pa., Burlington & Hat donfield, N. J., Western, Spiceland, Meee Wat White Lick, Westfield & Blue River, Indiana, few, give such information, as to. enable us tc state how many Bibles & Testaments have. been @ tributed by them. during the year; though it seem, there have been at least.149 Bibles. Testaments, mostly disposed of gratuitously, The Reports are generally destitute of 4 teresting matter, one Auxiliary has been dis tinued, the wants of friends within its. 4 inti having been supplied, Another is about clos its concerns, The pringipal items have been ¢ tracted and are.as follows, , One Auxiliary states that. "Although ‘the bers of our Religious Society within the limi of this Auxiliary are generally well supplied with the Holy Scriptures, yet fresh instances ally still occur, when a copy is needed | ‘en among these," . | The following incident is from the Report ihe’ female branch of one of the Auxiliaries, 8A member of their Committee of Correspon- ncshad recently taken a little girl from a ry poor & destitute family in the Pine woods lar the sea, not one of whom so much as knew the phabet’and this child appearing rather defi- i at “in capacity. The girl was sent to School r one quarter where. she made rapid progress, in@ in “this time learned to read, and returning ier parents was furnished with @ Bible, our *ienc having occasion afterwards to go to her ; house’ found the whole family assembled, | ¥ listening * while this “child read to them etc Bible, those Gospel truths, teh they were entirely shut out from hearing ugh any other mediun, * Bes Orie ‘Report states as follows “About 510 fa- @s of Friends reside within our himits the. families of friends residing within our iette;: are furnishéd with @ copy of the Holy “ieriptures as°fdr°as appears. There are about 50 membéfs of%0Ur Society eapable of reading the ble "Who -d6"not own a copy of it. The income of ir Auxiliary is not sufficient to supply those ithin ‘dur limitsiwith a,copy. of the Holy Scrip- res who are not duly: supplied," ' Another states that there are."I2 families “friends °not duly supplied with a copy of the ‘$¢riptures/< About 350° (Individuals). capable reading the Bible who~do not .own,.a copy,.. The ome* of the Auxiliarysisoinsufficient to supply > Within its’ limits who are not.duly supplied ith’ a copy of theoHoly Scriptures," One Auxiliary says "We belieye that most lies of friends, and the Schools within our mits are pretty well supplied with a copy of © Holy Scriptures, perhaps 3 or 4 newly settled not supplied as yet, Altho’ a large number of ar youth who are capable of reading, perhaps 250 n0 do not own a copy, tho’ we believe there are , a ld none but what may have free access to them in the families where they live,*® The sinking fund for the redemption of th Depository amounted on the Ist, of Ist. MO: I84 to 1,775,57 estimating the securities at cost, At that date the debt due on account of the Es tate was 5,000 dollars. In conelusion we wo remind the Association, that in a short time this debt will probably be paid when the in- | come Of the Estate, amounting (even in these depressed times) to about I,200 dollars per ar num, will be liberated & can be applied to the relief of those Auxiliaries that need- assistan It will, then, we trust be in the power of the Association to aid in supplying every. individ member of the Society capable of reading & un ble to, purchase a Bible with a copy. . We -hope therefore the Auxiliaries will not suffer dis- couragement to prevail; but continue to, hold their way amidst every triak and eR th may overtake them, abn &o 2a bl By direction & on behalf of the Managers, John Gs Hoskins,» . Phila, 4M0.13,1843, «5 <:., Secretary, . © a? | er : rm. ¢ same G The Treasurers account with the dhl ek Certificate of the Committee appointed to set tle it was produeed, "Having examined the foregoing: “account ° Henry Cope, Treasurer of the Bible Associatior of Priends in America and compared, it wi Sheds vouchers we find it correct, thers being a.bal ance in his hands on the I0th. Instant. due ta the Associatien of Two hundred & seventy, thre 40/100 dollars. * xEA On ‘ Philadelphia, 4 Month 1Ith. 184 ‘or s ‘ Benj enix’ He warder : Uriah Hunt . \Consni tt Adjourned | FIFTEENTH ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA: READ AT THE ANNUAL MEETING, HELD ON THE EVENING OF THE FIFTEENTH OF FOURTH MONTH, 1844. PHILADELPHIA: JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, PRINTER, APPLE-TREE ALLEY, SECOND DOOR ABOVE FOURTH STREET. SPEER Re EE Ree ee eee OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION. SAMUEL BETTLE, JR., Secrerary. BENJAMIN H. WARDER, Treasurer. CORRESPONDING MEMBERS. JOHN PAUL, THOMAS KIMBER, JOHN G. HOSKINS. MANAGERS. GEORGE WILLIAMS, JEREMIAH HACKER, JOHN ELLIOTT, JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, URIAH HUNT, JOHN CARTER, TOWNSEND SHARPLESS, GEORGE G. WILLIAMS, : PAUL W. NEWHALL, JOHN LIPPINCOTT, CHARLES ELLIS, . THEOPHILUS E. BEESLEY, JAMES R. GREEVES, HORATIO C. WOOD, WILLIAM BETTLE. i" TO THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. Tue Managers submit their Annual Report :— _ There have been issued from the Depository, for the year ending 4th mo. Ist, 1844—844 Bibles and 437 Testaments; of which 209 Bibles and 212 Testaments were sold to auxiliaries; 61 Bibles and 6 Testaments sent to auxiliaries on sale; and 52 Bibles and 13 Testaments furnished auxiliaries for gratuitous distribution among Friends in indigent circumstances. An edition of 2000 of the 24mo. Bible and 500 of the 24mo. Testament, in the press a year ago, has been completed. One of 1500 of the Reference Bible is now in progress. The stock of books on hand the 3rd inst., was as follows, viz :— 22 copies of the 8vo. Bible, without references, 962 « “cc “ with ‘“c 427 «6 24mo. *“ bound. 428 « « ‘Testaments, 113 « 12mo. * 137 copies of the 8vo. Bible without references, } 300 « “ “ with ‘“ 1812 « 24mo., “ in sheets. 1124 « « ‘Testaments, 1984 « 12mo. és J 6 The Treasurer's account exhibits the following, viz:— RECEIPTS. > $273 4¢ Balance of account of late Treasurer, . ; For sales of Bibles and Testaments, $752 28 Of Auxiliaries for do. 346 93 Donation from an Auxiliary, 12 00 Annual Subscriptions, 96 00 Legacy of the late Nathaniel Smith, 1,070 31 Six months’ rent of building, less $20 Water Rent, 645 00 2,922 52 $3,195 92 PAYMENTS. Printing, : . yore . $283 35 Binding, : ; ‘ : . 460 49 Paper, . ; : ; ; . 835 20 Agent’s Salary, ; ; ; . 800 00 Incidental Expenses, : : : 44 13 Insurance, ; 5 . ; ; 26 00 Loan discharged, . ; . . 815 90 Committee on real estate, to discharge debt due on building, Oe er 2,930 5¢ Balance on hand 4th mo. 5th, 1844, 265 & $3,195 92 Reports have been received from ten auxiliaries, viz: Philadelphia, Burlington and Haddonfield, N. J., White Water, White Lick, Westfield, Blue River and Spiceland, Indiana; Ferrisburg, Vermont; Yonge street, Upper Canada. From the information contained in these reports, it appeé that about 115 Bibles and 215 Testaments have been disposed of by them the past year, chiefly gratuitously. 7 One report mentions, “ that this auxiliary has sold and dis- tributed 528 Bibles and 305 Testaments, since its commence- ment; of the Bibles 112 have been distributed gratuitously; 65 of them on account of the Parent Institution, and 47 on ac- count of this auxiliary; of the Testaments, 181 have been gra- | tuitously distributed; 145 of them on account of the Parent | Association, and 36 on account of this auxiliary. We have sold only 5 Reference Bibles, 7 School Bibles, and 9 Testa- 'ments, during the past year, and none have been distributed i gratuitously.” : “Tt ought to be remarked, that the above statement has re- ference entirely to the official acts of the auxiliary, whereas we believe that the existence of the Association, and the oppor- ‘tunities afforded by the presence of beautiful editions of its ‘books, have been the occasion of many individuals furnishing their children and others gratuitously, of which the Association has no report.” ‘Further, that the action of our Yearly Meet- ing and Monthly Meetings in the case of supply, has been such, for many years past, as almost to supercede the necessity of § much inquiry by the auxiliary, it being the advice of our Yearly Meeting that Monthly Meetings should see that all their fami- lies are supplied with a copy. This accounts in part for the limited extent of our operations. We hope to use greater ex- ertions in time to come, to draw the attention of Friends to our publications, so as to promote a larger sale of them; and to in duce the purchases to be made much more generally than they have been for some time past from our stock.” «We have 20 members belonging to our auxiliary, and esti- mate the number of families within our bounds at about 275, at the present time. We think there are no families of Friends in our limits destitute of the Scriptures. ‘The number of mem- bers of our Society capable of reading, including children, not supplied each with a separate copy, may be estimated at an average of one for each family, or 275. The income of our ‘ | 8 auxiliary will probably be sufficient to supply all destitute Friends not in circumstances to supply themselves, and who may not be supplied otherwise.” | “ Although our operations have been very small, yet we look” ) with satisfaction to the little we have done, and feel promptec | to increased exertions for the future.” | “Tn addition to what our auxiliary has done, we remembe with gratitude, the valuable donation of Scriptures made b English Friends to the members of our Yearly Meeting, anc that the number of copies was very largely increased by the existence of, and facilities afforded by the Parent Institution.” One of the auxiliaries says, “Six families of Friends are re ported as being destitute of a copy of the Holy Scriptures. About 351 [members] capable of reading the Bible, who de not own a copy. The income of the auxiliary is insufficient to supply those within its limits, who are not duly supplied wi a copy of the Holy Scriptures.” *Another states, “There are within the verge of this auxiliary 1176 members of our Society capable of reading. Of this number there are 588 who do not possess a copy of the Scrip tures exclusively their own. The income of the auxiliary i not sufficient to supply those within our limits who do not pos sess a copy of the Holy Scriptures.” An auxiliary which had suspended holding meetings for some timé past, has resumed them and held a quarterly meeting ir the First month last. The Corresponding Committee acting on behalf of the auxiliary, says, “We believe every famil within our limits is supplied with one or more copies of Holy Scriptures.” “There are 80 members over the age ¢ 16 years who do not own a copy, but many of them are fu * It may be proper to remark, that when individuals are mentioned as ne supplied, they are generally children and young persons; a large proportic or perhaps nearly all of whom, reside in-families where there are Bible and of course have access to them, though they do not themselves own copy. 9 _nished with a copy of the New Testament.” “The income of _ the auxiliary is’ not sufficient to supply those within our limits who are not duly furnished with a copy of the Holy Scrip- » tures.” A Friend on behalf of an auxiliary writes: “The Bibles that were sent here for distribution, are all distributed, I think to good advantage, and were thankfully received by those on whdm we bestowed them ;—there is room for some more; when it is thought proper to send them they will be attended to.” An auxiliary remarks, concerning its gratuitous distribution thus: “Limited as our operations have been, it is satisfactory to believe that these gifts have been in most cases peculiarly acceptable and useful.” | Another states in its report as follows, viz: “This auxiliary | since its establishment, has disposed of 359 Bibles and 218 Tes- taments. Of these, during the past year, 4 Bibles and 3 Testa- ments have been sold, and 14 Bibles and 23 Testaments have been gratuitously distributed. In those gratuitously distributed, are included one large Bible, placed in the parlor of a hotel conducted on temperance principles, where many persons of both sexes congregate to wait for the arrival and departure of the cars; and 20 small Testaments presented as class books to the School for Coloured Children in this place.” In a communication by direction of an auxiliary, it is stated, “We are authorized to inform you, that owing to our weak sit- uation, we feel ourselves unable to keep up our Association in its full form at present, and consequently we have not forwarded the customary answers [to the queries] addressed to auxiliaries, yet we still feel willing to act as an agent for you in selling, or otherwise disposing of Bibles and Testaments within our limits.” Another auxiliary says, “ Although the smallness of our means prevents our doing much, yet we believe if we are rightly en- gaged, we shall still find opportunities for usefulness, sufficient to keep alive our interest in this laudable work. We believe 2 10 each family of Friends within our limits is furnished with a copy of the Holy Scriptures, though a considefable number of young Friends capable of reading are destitute of them.” It is evident from these extracts that there is in some places a considerable want of the Holy Scriptures, in order that each member of our Society, capable of reading, should be possessed of a copy, and it is probable that the same deficiency exists in other parts of the country, from which we have no reports: Since the last annual report there has been received from Joseph S. Shotwell, executor of the late Nathaniel Smith, of Flushing, Long Island, one thousand and seventy dollars and thirty-one cents, being the share of the Bible Association in the residuary estate bequeathed by him. The mortgage debt of $3,000, which remained at the date of the last report, has been since paid; this wil] enable the managers to apply the net income of the Depository building towards the distribution of Bibles and Testaments among such of their fellow members, professors and others, as may stand in need of such assistance, and in a greater degree extend the usefulness of the Association, in conformity with the original design in forming it; and which is so well set forth in the first annual report, that the managers now, after a lapse of 14 years, cannot perhaps do better than to adopt and confirm it. “In contemplating the future operations of the Bible Associ- ation, they think they perceive a wide field for useful labour. It is not merely the destitute of our own flock to whom we owe the duty of thus supplying them with the Holy Scriptures—next in the order of their claims, are those descendants of Friends who have lost their right of membership, but who frequent our meetings, and rank themselves as professors of the same faith with us. They retain in many instances their. attachment to the Society; and we have no doubt there will be found among the poorer classes of these a greater deficiency in the supply, and of inability to purchase the Bible, than among our own 1] members. Nor are the duties of Christian charity limited to the circle of our own members and professors. The poor and the destitute who are thrown more immediately upon our own care and notice, whatever may be their name to religion, will also claim our sympathy. And we cannot doubt that upon all who labour with honest and humble intentions, to spread in any degree a knowledge of the Gospel of our holy Redeemer, a blessing will rest, and that in the good of which they may be- come the instruments, they will be more than rewarded for their exertions by the sweet incomes of peace to their own minds.” The managers trust it may be allowable to express the satis- faction that is felt at the favourable condition of the affairs of the Association. Possessed of a valuable real estate, which _ furnishes ample accommodation for the transaction of its busi- ness, and also yields a considerable income; having likewise a stock in stereotype plates, books, &c., and being free from debt, the way seems clearly open to apply its means [in the language of the third annual report] “ to the gratuitous distribution of the Bible, and to give that permanency and security to the opera- tions of the Institution, which under the divine blessing, cannot fail to be beneficially felt.” As few of the auxiliaries have returned the desired answers, we deem it proper to call the attention of the members to the queries and rules attached, published in the “Friend,” 2nd mo. 10th, 1844, and now annexed to this report. The present may _ be the proper time to enforce the propriety of prompt attention thereto, both as respects the auxiliaries already formed, and such as may hereafter be organized. Let it be remembered that the parent Association is now prepared to extend the gra- tuitous circulation of the Scriptures, and upon the information received from its branches, must in great measure depend its ability to make a judicious application of the means entrusted to its care. We would therefore suggest, that instead of wait- = 12 ing until the termination of another year, auxiliaries should at once make full and detailed reports of thaleramte and condi- tion to the Board of Managers. Signed on behalf and by direction of the Board of Managers. | SAMUEL BETTLE, Jr., Clerk pro tem. Philadelphia, Fourth mo. 11th, 1844. QUERIES, 1. What number of families or individuals have been gratui- tously furnished with the Holy Scriptures by the Association, © since its establishment; and how many during the past year? 2. What number of Bibles and Testaments have been sold by the Association, since its commencement; and how many within the past year? 3. How many members, male and female, are there belong- ing to the Association; and what number of families of Friends reside within its limits? 4. Are there any families of Friends within your limits not duly supplied with the Holy Scriptures; and if so, how many? 5. How many members of our Society, capable of reading the Bible, do not own a copy? 6. How many Bibles or Testaments may probably be dis- posed of by sale or to Friends within your limits? 7. Is the income of the auxiliary sufficient to supply those within its limits who are not duly furnished with the Holy Scriptures ? 8. What number of Bibles and Testaments would it be ne- eessary for the Bible Association to furnish gratuitously, so as to enable the auxiliary to supply each family, and each member of our religious Society, capable of reading, who is destitute * a copy, and unable to purchase it? 13 Rules for the government of the Auxiliary Associations. The objects and constitution of the Bible Association of Friends in America, having the approbation of this meeting, it is agreed, that a Society be now formed under the following rules, to be called the “ Auxiliary Bible Association of Friends,” for the purpose of supplying Friends and others, in this vicinity, with the Holy Scriptures, encouraging the frequent and serious perusal of them, and promoting a more accurate knowledge of their invaluable contents; also, of co-operating with the Bible Association of Friends in America, in furthering their important objects in other places. RULES. 1st. Any person paying to the Treasurer dollars at one _ time, or dollars annually, and being a member of the re- | ligious Society of Friends, shall be a member of this Associa- tion. 2nd. Any member of the Bible Association of Friends in America, residing in this district, shall be considered a member of this Auxiliary Association. 3d. The officers of this Association shall be a Secretary, Treasurer, and a Committee of Correspondence. 4th. The Committee of Correspondence shall consist of the Secretary, Treasurer, and members to be chosen annu- ally: they shall have the power of filling vacancies in their own body, and shall be authorized to act on behalf of the Association, during its recess: they shall meet monthly, and keep fair minutes of all their proceedings, which, with the cor- respondence, shall be laid before the Association at its Quar- terly Meetings. members shall form a quorum. 5th. The Association shall meet once in three months, on the day of . At the first Quarterly Meeting in each year, a statement of the accounts, and of the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed, and on hand, shall be exhibited; \4 the several officers appointed; and a detailed report of the pro- ceedings during the preceding year, be prepared and forwarded — to the Secretary of the Bible Association of Friends in Ame- rica ; to attend the annual meeting of which, delegates may be appointed. , 6th. The amount of subscriptions and donations to this Asso- ciation, after deducting the necessary expenses, shall be remit- ted annually to the Treasurer of the Bible Association of Friends in America, in consideration of the provision made in the tenth article of its constitution, viz: “The full amount paid by Aux- iliary Societies to the Treasurer of this Association, shall be returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in Bibles or Testaments at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the acting committee; but all sums not so demanded, shall remain at the disposal of this Association, to aid in promoting its general objects.” 7th. Every subscriber to this Association shall be entitled to a return of one-half of the amount of his life or annual sub- scription, in Bibles or Testaments at cost, under such regula- tions as may be hereafter adopted. 8th. The members of the Association shall appoint commit- tees, whose duty it shall be to solicit subscriptions in their re- spective neighbourhoods, and to inquire what families, individu- als or schools, are in want of Bibles or Testaments, and make report thereof to the Association or the Committee of Corres- pondence, in order that they may be promptly supplied, either at prime cost or otherwise, according to circumstances. 9th. A list of such committees shall be kept by the Secre- tary; and at every Quarterly Meeting, each committee shall be called upon to report the state of its neighbourhood; the amount of moneys collected, and the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed or required. 10th. Any member, ceasing to be a member of the religious — Society of Friends, shall cease to be a member of this Associ- ation. 15 AUXILIARY SOCIETIES. Vassalborough, Maine, Auxiliary Bible Association. New York, New York, do. Scipio, do. do. Farmington, do. do. Cornwall, do. do. Duanesburg, do. do. Purchase, do. do. Saratoga, do. do. Ferrisburg, Vermont, do. Yonge Street, Upper Canada, _— do. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, do. Bucks, do. do. Red Stone, do. do. Burlington, New Jersey. do. Salem, do. do. _ Haddonfield, do. do. Upper Quarterly Meeting, Va. do. New Garden, N. C. do. Deep River, do. do. Southern, do. do. Eastern, do. do. Stillwater, Ohio, do. Miami, do. do. Salem, do. do. Alum Creek do. do. Centre, do. do. New-Garden, Indiana, do. Blue River, do. do. White Water, do. do White Lick, do. do. Westfield, do. do. Springfield, do. do. Western, do. do. —>— FORMS OF LEGACY. 1. Form of a Bequest of Personal Estate. “T give and bequeath to A. B. and A. C. and the survivor of them, and the executors and administrators of such survivor, the sum of in trust for the use of an institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘ ‘The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and to be paid by the said ‘Trustees to the treasurer for the time being of the said institution.” 16 2. Form of a Devise of Real Estate. “T give and devise to A. B. and C. D. and their heirs, all that ( here describe the property ) together with the appurtenances, to hold to them, the said A. B. and C. D. and the survivor of them, and the heirs of such survivors for ever; in trust nevertheless for the sole use and benefit of an institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘ The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and upon this further trust, absolutely to dispose of, and convey the same, either in fee, or for such other estate, and in such way and manner, as the members of the said Association shall, at any meeting or meetings, order, di- rect, and appoint.” The Depository of the Bible Association is at No. 50 North Fourth street, a lew doors above Arch street. Communications respecting the business of the office may be addressed to George W. Taylor, Agent. id SESSESSSSSR SSSKRKARA Us e § fsee re ve ~ => sage 7 | | PaE er THE SIXTEENTH ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION or FRIENDS IN AMERICA: READ AT THE ANNUAL MEETING, HELD ON THE EVENING OF THE TWENTY-FIRST OF FOURTH MONTH, 1845. PHILADELPHIA: PRINTED BY JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, APPLE-TREE ALLEY, SECOND DOOR ABOVE FOURTH. 1845. a de ee es e s OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION. CHARLES ELLIS, Secrerary. BENJAMIN H. WARDER, Treasurer. CORRESPONDING MEMBERS. THOMAS KIMBER, PAUL W. NEWHALL, CHARLES YARNALL. MANAGERS. GEORGE WILLIAMS, SAMUEL BETTLE, Jr. JEREMIAH HACKER, JOHN LIPPINCOTT, JOHN ELLIOTT, THEOPHILUS E. BEESLEY, JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, JAMES R. GREEVES, URIAH HUNT, HORATIO C. WOOD, JOHN CARTER, WILLIAM BETTLE, TOWNSEND SHARPLESS, ISAAC DAVIS. GEORGE G. WILLIAMS, 4 r “ «peta i de ial tlh pale ea iattliioses Toe Oo Se tees eed ia - « ai - wn ee TESS pee ae, 7, Tm 93 pete OOM K&S —- TO THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. Tue Managers submit the following Report of their _ proceedings during the past year. There have been issued from the Depository, for the year ending 4th mo. Ist, 1845—2618 Bibles, and 844 _ Testaments; of which 230 Bibles and 138 Testaments were sold to auxiliaries; 56 Bibles and 50 Testaments sent to auxiliaries on sale ;—636 Bibles and 417 'Testa- _ ments have been gratuitously disposed of; of this num- ber, 316 Bibles and 352 Testaments were furnished _ auxiliaries for gratuitous distribution to Friends in indi- gent circumstances, or for sale at low prices at their option. From this account it appears there has been an increase of issues from the Depository, over the pre- vious year, of 1774 Bibles and 377 ‘Testaments. Since last Report an edition of 1500 of the Reference Bible, then in press, has been completed, and another 6 edition of 1000 copies of the same Bible has been print- ed; also 2500 24mo. Testaments, to be sold at the low prices of 10 cents per copy, bound in muslin, and 12} cents in sheep. An edition of 2000 of the 24mo. Bible is In progress. The stock of books on hand the Ist inst., was as follows, viz :— 213 copies of the 8vo. Reference Bible, 403 * 24mo. School “ ; J 442 « « Testament, . 279 12mo. “ 1335 copies of the 8vo. Reference Bible, 101 * « School “ 752 « 24mo. * “ in sheets. 3100 « “ Testament, 1484 «“ 12mo. 66 The following is a summary of the Treasurer’s account. RECEIPTS. penee G.Jeat scoount, «.,.., «..» « «,m sees ole Legacy of Daniel Carlisle, . . . . . $48 75 For sales of Bibles and Testaments, . . 1,332 14 Of Auxiliaries for : do. . 0%) J GBRS9 Annual Subscriptions, . . . . . + « 7800 Ay ices * 6) byt @1's neo hype Nine months’ rent of that portion of the building not occupied by the Association, $963 13—less taxes $148 05, Water Rent $20, Repairs $89 86= 257 91. 705 21 2,794 00 $3,059 33 7 PAYMENTS. Paper;) «|: . . : ; ; - $1,012 07 Printing, . ; : ; : : 563 99 Binding, é : : : ° , 528 98 Folding, 2 ; : ; , : 60 00 Stereotype Plate, 2 : ; ? 7 62 Salary of Agent, ; . : ; 325 00 Insurance on books, plates, &c.,_. : 26 00 Printing Annual Report, &c, : : 26 37 SY ae uae new car 157 32 2,707 35 Balance on hand 4th mo. 7th, 1845, ; : 4 351 98 $3,059 33 During the past year two new auxiliaries have been recognised, both within the limits of Ohio Yearly Meet- ing. One at Flushing, the other at Fairfield. Reports have been received from fourteen auxiliaries, viz:—Philadelphia; Burlington, and Haddonfield, N. J.; Yonge street, Upper Canada; Vassalborough, Maine; Fairfield, Flushing, and Alum Creek, Ohio; White Water, Springfield, White Lick, Western, Westfield and Blue River, Indiana. From these Reports—several of which are more in detail than usual—it appears that they have distributed during the past year, about 393 Bibles and 271 Testa- ments ; being 278 Bibles and 56 ‘Testaments more than were reported as distributed the previous year ;—most of them were gratuitously disposed of. | There are 21 families reported as destitute of the Holy Scriptures, and about 3000 individuals capable of 8 reading, who do not own a copy, although most of them reside in families where they have access to the Bible. - A number of the auxiliaries, within whose limits much want of Bibles and Testaments is known to exist, do not state how many copies would be required, to supply those individuals capable of reading, who are unable to purchase. From other reports which give more definite accounts, we are informed that more than 1000 volumes would be needed to supply the wants now ascertained within their borders. It appears from the reports of the auxiliaries, as well as from information the managers have received from other sources, that much want of good copies of the Holy Scriptures yet exists among Friends in various parts of our country; and they would again affectionately, yet earnestly press upon the minds of Friends in the differ- ent Yearly Meetings, the consideration of the duty that devolves upon them, in endeavouring to acquaint them- selves with the situation of their fellow members, in their respective neighbourhoods; and we believe our women Friends might usefully participate more exten- sively than they have yet done, in this interesting ser- vice. Much of this labour must necessarily be performed by the different auxiliaries; and as the Parent Associa- tion is now possessed of an income, which will enable it to extend more widely than heretofore the gratuito distribution of the Scriptures, among those who are destitute of them, we feel desirous that some of the auxiliaries, which for a long time appear almost entirely to have suspended their operations, may be encouraged S to renewed exertions in the good work in which they © _ were formerly engaged. One of the primary objects of our Association, which is of much importance, was that every member of our religious Society who is capable of reading, might be furnished with a copy of the Bible; thereby aiding our fellow members in their endeavours to comply with the requisition of the Discipline, “to bring up those under their direction in frequently reading the Holy Scrip- tures;” and we hope Friends will not relax in their efforts until this desirable object is accomplished. One Auxiliary states in its Report, “ We believe that much good has arisen to Friends and others within our hmits, through our feeble endeayours to promote the circulation of good and durable copies of the Holy Scriptures; and in many instances we have been en- abled to supply those who were not able to furnish themselves with a copy of the Bible or Testament; but notwithstanding what has been done, there is still a large number of our Society not supplied with a copy of the Holy Scriptures. Yet it is proper to observe, that these are mostly young Friends, who reside with their parents, or in families where the Bible is possessed by the family, to which they have free access; but not owning a copy of their own, they are reported as desti- tute; yet this number is sensibly decreasing, as parents are becoming more concerned on the subject, and are supplying their children with copies exclusively their own.” Another, within whose limits there are 220 families 2 10 of Friends, informs, “there are about 320 individuals who do not own a copy of the Bible, of which number — 150 are not able at present to furnish themselves; and this Auxiliary being so small, is not able to do much, the income not being sufficient to supply the deficiences. Probably about 400 Reference Bibles might be sold to Friends and others, and gratuitously disposed of to Friends.” | Another states: “There are 73 members of our reli- gious Society capable of reading, who do not own a copy of the Bible, and our income is not sufficient to supply them.” Another informs: “There are 480 Friends within our limits capable of reading, who do not own a copy of the Scriptures, and our income is insufficient to sup- ply them.” Another states: “Although our operations have been very small, yet we look with satisfaction to the little we have done, and feel prompted to increased exertions for the future. In addition to what our Auxiliary has done, we acknowledge with thankfulness, the valuable dona- tions of Scriptures afforded us by the Parent Institution, all of which have been distributed, and yet there is a great lack within our limits, as will appear by our an- swers to the queries.” An Auxiliary which has lately been established, men- tions: “Owing to our recent organization, we have not yet arrived at anything like an accurate knowledge of the want of Bibles and Testaments in families, We., 11 of our respective neighbourhoods, yet we feel authorized to say, that the deficiency is not small.” Another informs: “We are at a loss to say how many of the destitute are unable to supply themselves, yet we believe the number to be very considerable.” Another mentions: “ We have 52 members, male and female belonging to the Auxiliary, and 120 families of Friends residing within our limits. We very accept- ably received the Reference Bibles furnished gratui- tously, by the Parent Association, for which we have found suitable and grateful recipients. 156 individuals are reported to be unsupplied with the Holy Scriptures ; we believe four-fifths of them are not well able to supply - themselves, and the income of our Association is very inadequate.” Another states: “ Our limits embrace many members and descendants of members, scattered over a large territory, which renders it a difficult task to give defi- nite answers to all the queries, and opens a wide field for useful labour in the distribution of the Holy Scrip- tures. Whilst we would acknowledge a remissness in our operations for some time past, we believe it safe now to say, that Friends here are turning their attention with increased interest to the promotion of the objects of the Parent Association.” Another Auxiliary thus concludes its Report: “In presenting the foregoing proceedings of this Auxiliary for the past year, we think there is abundant cause for encouragement, not only in the number of copies of the Scriptures which have been distributed, but also from 12 the disposition which has been made of some of them ;” expressing a feeling of gratitude, that the’ means are thus at their disposal, to furnish those with a copy of the Sacred Writings who were unable to procure them. A review of the proceedings of the Auxiliary Associ- ations, as developed in their reports for the past year, is encouraging, as furnishing a gratifying evidence of a continued interest in the important and primary objects of the Association. ‘They are also interesting, as ex- hibiting present wants, which with the future demand naturally to be anticipated, will require the income and labour of many years to supply. During the past year we have received from the ex- ecutors of our friend Daniel Carlisle, the net amount of a legacy of fifty dollars; and have also been informed by the executors of our late friend and fellow-manager, John Paul, that he has bequeathed the sum of one thou- sand dollars for the use of the Bible Association, pay- able at the decease of his widow. In surrendering the trust confided to them, the man- agers believe it proper again to advert to the subject of the formation of new Auxiliaries. Upon the labours of Auxiliary Associations the future usefulness of our In- stitution must, under the Divine blessing, in great mea- sure depend. Upon them the managers must mainly rely for the necessary information respecting the wants of Friends within their respective limits, to enable them to make a judicious appropriation of the means at their command. ‘They are aware that in many places where Auxiliaries have not yet been established, and much de- 13 ficiency is known to exist, the labour incident to their formation, and required for conducting properly their operations, might at the commencement devolve upon a few individuals; yet we cannot but believe, if the minds of these were sufficiently impressed with the im- portance of the work, and of the benefits which may be experienced from the general diffusion of a know- ledge of the contents of the Sacred Volume, they would cheerfully devote a portion of their time and means to the performance of this Christian duty. The managers believe they cannot better conclude _ their Report, than by a reference to the language quoted by the Authors of the Address issued upon the forma- » tion of our Association, “the substance of which,” they observe, “is contained in the Discipline of all the Yearly Meetings.” “1732—We tenderly and earnestly advise and ex- hort all parents and masters of families, that they exert themselves in the wisdom of God, and in the strength - of his love, to instruct their children and families in the doctrines and precepts of the Christian religion con- tained in the Holy Scriptures; and that they excite them to the diligent reading of those Sacred Writings, which plainly set forth the miraculous conception, birth, holy life, wonderful works, blessed example, meritorious death and glorious resurrection, ascension and mediation, of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ; and to educate their children in the belief of these important truths, as well as in the belief of the inward manifestation and operation of the Spirit of God on their own minds, that 14 they may reap the benefit and advantage thereof, for their own peace and everlasting happiness, which is in- finitely preferable to all other considerations. “We therefore exhort, in the most earnest manner, that they all be very careful in this respect; a neglect herein being in our judgment, very blameworthy.” Signed on behalf and by direction of the Board of Managers. WILLIAM BETTLE, Secretary. Philadelphia, 4th mo. 17th, 1845. QUERIES. 1. What number of families or individuals have been gratui- tously furnished with the Holy Scriptures by the Association, since its establishment; and how many during the past year? 2. What number of Bibles and Testaments have been sold by the Association, since its commencement; and how many within the past year? 3. How many members, male and female, are there belong- ing to the Association ? 4. Are there any families of Friends within your limits not duly supplied with the Holy Scriptures; and if so, how many? 5. How many members of our Society, capable of reading the Bible, do not own a copy ? 6. How many Bibles or Testaments may probably be dis- posed of by sale, or to Friends within your limits? | 7. Is the income of the Auxiliary sufficient to furnish a copy of the Bible to each family, and to each member of our religi- ous Society, within your limits, capable of reading it, but not owning a copy, nor able to purchase one? 8. If not, what number of copies, if gratuitously furnished by the Bible Association, would enable the Auxiliary to supply such families and individuals? 15 Rules for the government of the Auxiliary Associations. The objects and Constitution of the Bible Association of Friends in America, having the approbation of this meeting, it is agreed, that a Society be now formed under the following rules, to be called the “ Auxiliary Bible Association of Friends,” for the purpose of supplying Friends and others, in this vicinity, with the Holy Scriptures, encouraging the frequent and serious perusal of them, and promoting a more accurate knowledge of their invaluable contents; also, of co-operating with the Bible Association of Friends in America, in furthering their important objects in other places. RULES. Ist. Any person paying to the Treasurer dollars at one time, or dollars annually, and being a member of the re- ~ ligious Society of Friends, shall be a member of this Associa- tion. 2nd. Any member of the Bible Association of Friends in America, residing in this district, shall be considered a member of this Auxiliary Association. 8rd. The officers of this Association shall be a Secretary, Treasurer, and a Committee of Correspondence. 4th. The Committee of Correspondence shall consist of the Secretary, Treasurer, and members to be chosen annu- ally: they shall have the power of filling vacancies in their own body, and shall be authorized to act on behalf of the Association, during its recess: they shall meet monthly, and keep fair minutes of all their proceedings, which, with the cor- respondence, shall be laid before the Association at its Quar- terly meetings. members shall form a quorum. 5th. The Association shall meet once in three months, on the day of . At the first Quarterly Meeting in each year, a statement of the accounts, and of the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed, and on hand, shall be exhibited ; 16 the several officers appointed ; and a detailed report of the pro- ceedings during the preceding year, be prepared and forwarded to the Secretary of the Bible Association of Friends in Ame- rica; to attend the annual meeting of which, delegates may be appointed. 6th. The amount of subscriptions and donations to this Asso- ciation, after deducting the necessary expenses, shall be remit- ted annually to the Treasurer of the Bible Association of Friends in America, in consideration of the provision made in the tenth article of its Constitution, viz: “ The full amount paid by Aux- iliary Societies to the Treasurer of this Association, shall be returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in Bibles or Testaments at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the acting committee; but all sums not so demanded, shall remain at the disposal of this Association, to aid in promoting its general objects.” 7th. Every subscriber to this Association shall be entitled to a return of one-half of the amount of his life or annual sub- scription, in Bibles or Testaments at cost, under such regula- tions as may be hereafter adopted. 8th. The members of the Association shall appoint commit- tees, whose duty it shall be to solicit subscriptions in their re- spective neighbourhoods, and to inquire what families, individu- als or schools, are in want of Bibles or Testaments, and make report thereof to the Association or the Committee of Corres- pondence, in order that they may be promptly supplied, either at prime cost or otherwise, according to circumstances. 9th. A list of such committees shall be kept by the Secre- tary; and at every Quarterly Meeting, each committee shall be called upon to report the state of its neighbourhood; the amount of moneys collected, and the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed or required. 10th. Any member, ceasing to be a member of the religious Society of Friends, shall cease to be a member of this Associ- ation. | 17 AUXILIARY SOCIETIES. Vassalborough, Maine, Auxiliary Bible Association. New York, New York, do. Scipio, do. do. Farmington, do. do. Cornwall, do. do. Duanesburg, do. do. Purchase, do. do. Saratoga, do. do. Ferrisburg, Vermont, do. Yonge Street, Upper Canada, do. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, do. Bucks, do. do. Red Stone, do. do. Burlington, New Jersey, do. Salem, do. do. Haddonfield, do. do. Upper Quarterly Meeting, Va., do. New Garden, N.-C. do. Deep River, do. do. Southern, do. do. Eastern, dos"? do. Stillwater, Ohio, do. Miami, do. do. Salem, do, do. Alum Creek do. do. Centre, do. do. Flushing, do. do. Fairfield, do. do. New Garden, Indiana, do. Blue River, do. do. White Water, do. do. White Lick, do. do, Westfield, do. do. Springfield, do. do. Western, do. do. Spiceland, do. do. —+Oo FORMS OF LEGACY. 1. Form of a Bequest of Personal Estate. “‘T give and bequeath to A. B. and A. C. and the survivor of them, and the executors and administrators of such survivor, the sum of in trust for the use of an institution in Philadelphia, 3 18 known by the name of ‘ The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and to be paid by the said Trustees to the treasurer for the time being of the said institution.” 2. Form of a Devise of Real Estate. “T give and devise to A. B. and C. D. and their heirs, all that (here describe the property) together with the appurtenances, to hold to them, the said A. B. and C. D. and the survivor of them, and the heirs of such survivors for ever; in trust nevertheless for the sole use and benefit of an institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and upon this further trust, absolutely to dispose of, and convey the same, either in fee, or for such other estate, and in such way and manner, as the members of the said Association shall, at any meeting or meetings, order, di- rect, and appoint.” The Depository of the Bible Association is at No. 50 North Fourth street, a few doors above Arch street. Communications respecting the business of the office may be addressed to George W. Taylor, Agent. eee a eS eee ee eee se BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. ; | DEPOSITORY No. 50 NORTH FOURTH STREET, UP STAIRS, PHILA. PRICES OF BIBLES AND TESTAMENTS. Sue of ; Bible or | Nember Aes Reve . Teste | of Bink. —— Trice. 2 | Reference Bible tel ee Super-| 8vo. | No. 8 Calf, pt. bk. &c.| $4 00 | $4 00 ; do, do. do. do. do. 500 ; do. do, do. do, do. 6 00 do. do, do. do. do. 3150 ; do. do. Fine | do. | No.4 17 200 : do, do do. do do. 2 2 2 : do. do do. do. do. 275 3 00 ‘ do. do do, do. | No.5 2 25 2500 do. do. do. do. do. 325 359 ; do. do. do do, | do 425 | 450 > MalOOl Bic oie chawiaticcauccadeoactate do. | No.l 5 7 1» 150 ; GO, erecccccncccsscnseccecesdcess 2mo. | No. 2)| 1 vol. | Plain Sheep.... 65 75 ; GO ced debecdetubdvacd voccccatece do. No. 6 | 1 vol. aa flexible bk. Oo 100 ' Oa wt win ccksascunnecs ab ccks Ue do. do. | 1 vol. | Cif. embossed..| 1 75 200 ; BOs. Wiknvdd Scoedbtabicveccet ANGE do. do. | 1 vol. do, do. & gilt} 22 20 { New Testament. ......s.ecceeceeccsveces Ge. fevcccehgocscs } bou 10 one cafe ithdalh bShMib Sa do, }......]...... | Bkiver 12j Go. «tte ccvcncdcvccscccccenees GO. fesacee] ovens Sheep bands 3 23 G0, 5. % deadnsnccnsensdes de nnntobt Gas Acs s dds | decided cit. 75 75 Gare TY WPA SeeGecatccchabeeccee cg ype pep Bee: do. do. & gilt; 1 00 100 ; GO. © _ . eppeunscencdttas cohecene® Ge... benstet : b antes M 10 10 Basti 2 Sete qavddect ddl de obwebeted Ge Vacsene Daeeees Pocket bk. form 75 75 ; Gb | Ando titicncaeins wee W2mo, |... ..+ [apse bound Sheep 31 a7 ; Gas) D) Hidde ce Sec ds AD. Si GO. Fok. es} Ned.8 ain Sheep. a » GO. te eteesesseeeesssececeees do. |...+.. | secees Sheep, extra. 55 65 SEVENTEENTH ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA: READ AT THE ANNUAL MEETING, HELD ON THE EVENING OF THE TWENTIETH OF FOURTH MONTH, 1846. PFPA ee eee PHILADELPHIA: PRINTED BY JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, APPLE-TREE ALLEY, SECOND DOOR ABOVE FOURTH ST. 1846. OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION, CHARLES ELLIS, Secrerary. BENJAMIN H. WARDER, Treasurer. CORRESPONDING MEMBERS. THOMAS KIMBER, PAUL W. NEWHALL, CHARLES YARNALL. MANAGERS. SAMUEL BETTLE, Jr. JOHN LIPPINCOTT, THEOPHILUS E. BEESLEY, JAMES R. GREEVES, HORATIO C. WOOD, - WILLIAM BETTLE, ROBERT SMITH. GEORGE WILLIAMS, JEREMIAH HACKER, JOHN ELLIOTT, JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, URIAH HUNT, JOHN CARTER, TOWNSEND SHARPLESS, GEORGE G, WILLIAMS, Dee TO THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. Tue Managers present the following Report of their _ proceedings during the past year. There have been issued from the Depository, for the year ending 3rd mo. 31st, 1846—3194 Bibles, and 2255 Testaments; of which 397 Bibles and 721 Testaments were sold to Auxiliaries; 878 Bibles and 1103 Testa- ments have been gratuitously disposed of; of this num- ber 755 Bibles and 940 Testaments were furnished to Auxiliaries for gratuitous distribution, or for sale at low prices, at their discretion. From the above account, it appears there has been an increase of issues from the Depository, over the previous year, of 576 Bibles and and 1411 Testaments. . Since last Report there have been printed two editions — of 1000 copies each, of the Reference Bible; 2000 copies of the 24mo. Bible, and 500 copies of the 12mo. Testa- 4 ment and Psalms, to be bound together; a set of plates having been prepared for the Psalms, corresponding with our duodecimo ‘Testament plates. The stock of books on hand the Ist inst., was as follows, viz: 228 bound copies of the 8vo. Reference Bible. 24 « «“ «“ School “ 335 « “« 24mo. “ “« 80s « “s «Testament. 204 « “ 12mo.. « 1061 copies in sheets, of the 8vo. Reference Bible. 41 “ “ “ School “ 1922 « « 24mo. “ “ 1000 * = _* Testament. 984 “* = 12mo. “ The following is a summary of the Treasurer’s account. RECEIPTS. Balance of last account, . . . . +--+ + « « « $351 98 Sales of Bibles and Testaments, . . $2,327 71 Rents of the Depository building, $1,248 75—less taxes and m{ 1,011 95 pairs, $236 80, Annual Pry m BF <9) 4100 Ae 69 00 Interest, =... .~ ; i, an 1 36 From Auxiliary Aetociehs, (being prin- cipally for sales of Bibles and Testa- ' 581 51 ments,) . 3,991 53 g : £ 3 PAYMENTS. Paper, ' ; ; ; ; : $1,186 38 Printing, . ‘ ‘ 4 ; ; 641 77 Binding, . : ; ; 932 24 Stereotype plates for Hahn ; : 51 96 Packing Boxes, ‘ : 19 81 Incidental expenses paid by Nga 72 83 Salary of Agent, ‘ : ; 400 00 Expenses of renewal of trust of Estate on Fourth St. and Appletree Alley, wa Insurance on books, paper, stereotype plates, &c., for seven years, rm 156 00 12th mo. 24th, 1845, Printing Annual Report, . : ; ; 36 00 $3507 24 Balance on hand 4th mo. 6th, 1846, 836 27 $4,343,51 During the past year we have received information of the establishment of two new Auxiliaries, both within the limits of Indiana Yearly Meeting. One in Hamil- ton county, Indiana, the other at Salem, Iowa Terri- tory. Reports have been received from sixteen Auxiliaries, viz :—Philadelphia; Burlington, N. J.; Vassalborough, Maine; Fairfield; Flushing and Alum Creek, Ohio; White Lick, Hamilton, White Water, Springfield, Spice- land, Westfield, Western and Blue River, Indiana; Sa- lem, lowa Territory; and Yonge Street, Upper Canada. It is mentioned in several of these Reports that a “considerable number” of Bibles and Testaments have been distributed during the past year, but the exact 6 amount is not stated; other Auxiliaries which give more definite information, report that they have distributed 509 Bibles and 558 Testaments; being 116 Bibles and 287 Testaments more than were reported as distributed the previous year. There are 97 families reported as not duly supplied with copies of the Holy Scriptures, and upwards of 4000 individuals capable of reading, who do not possess a copy; most of them, however, have access to Bibles belonging to the families in which they reside. One Auxiliary states in its Report, “ We may inform you, notwithstanding our feeble efforts in this work of benevolence, our labours have been useful and satisfac- tory. We received the box of Bibles and Testaments you sent to us, which have been mostly distributed. Those gratuitously distributed, have been in particular thankfully received. A few copies have been sold to individuals not in membership with us. Many of the latter class alluded to, are turning their attention to- wards furnishing their families and schools with those Bibles and ‘Testaments manufactured by Friends, believ- ing they are the cheapest and most durable they can get. We still feel prompted to further exertions in the cause, believing that there is yet a great lack of these inestimable writings within our vicinity. Although the smallness of our means prevents our doing much, yet we believe if we are rightly engaged, we shall still find opportunity for usefulness.” Another mentions: “ With feelings of gratitude we acknowledge the receipt of a valuable donation of Bibles 7 and ‘Testaments from the Parent Association the past year, which were put in the hands of committees to dis- pose of according to the instructions sent, and probably more has’been done than would appear from our report. We hope that our Auxiliary may yet be stimulated to _ greater exertions in the performance of the duties as- signed it.” Another informs: “Although our number is small, yet we feel encouraged to persevere, believing that the Auxiliary has been a great benefit, and we trust we may say, a great blessing to the members of this Quarterly Meeting; and it is with feelings of gratitude we express _ our obligation to you for the assistance you have ren- dered us from time to time, in enabling us to furnish our destitute members with such excellent copies of these invaluable writings; and while we desire your encouragement, we also desire that a blessing may at- tend the labours of al/ Friends who are engaged in this - important work.” Another states: “'The very handsome and acceptable present of Bibles and Testaments furnished by the Pa- rent Association since last year, has all been gratui- tously distributed, and generally received with gratitude. We believe most of the families not furnished with a complete copy of the Holy Scriptures, are not well able to supply themselves, and the income of our Auxiliary is quite inadequate.” Another Auxiliary in concluding its report, says: “From the foregoing representation of our condition, exhibiting our feeble efforts and the many existing defi- e 8 ciencies, it is apparent that a wide field of useful labour is Open to the comparatively few, who have come for- ward to aid in promoting the benevolent designs of the Parent Association.” Another concludes thus: “In taking a retrospect of the labours of the Auxiliary Association during the past year, it appears that the amount of distribution has been greater than that of several preceding ones. Al- though our own members are generally supplied with the Scriptures of Truth, very many others must con- stantly be met with, if due inquiry is made, who will be glad to receive all we may have to distribute; and if we duly appreciate the benefit which has resulted from the perusal of the Sacred Volume, as opened to the un- derstandings of the humble seekers after Divine truth, we shall not be disposed to lessen our efforts in spread- ing this inestimable volume.” From the report of another Auxiliary we quote the following: “ We embrace this opportunity of calling the attention of the members of this Auxiliary to the vast importance of the object we have in view, and the responsibility which rests upon them as members of an Association of this character, the aim of: which is, according to the Constitution, “to encourage the frequent and serious perusal of the Holy Scriptures, and to promote a more accurate knowledge of their in- valuable contents.” They would press the query close home to every member, Am I to the best of my ability, endeavouring to promote the objects of the Auxiliary? We would earnestly exhort every member to renewed ’ 9 exertion, and encourage others to become interested, believing that abundant good has been effected by the blessing of Providence, through the agency of this As- sociation; and knowing that there is an urgent neces- sity for more active exertion, seeing that we have an extensive field in which to labour.” Another states: “ Although we are situated in a very remote section, as regards the great body of the Society of Friends, we do not on that account feel ourselves cast out from their regard or notice. The number of members belonging to this Auxiliary is yet very small, and the number of members of the Society of Friends within our limits is large, and they are very widely scat- tered, which makes it difficult for us to render an accu- rate account to the Parent Association. ‘There are many within our borders who are not able to supply | themselves and families with a suitable number of copies of the Holy Scriptures, and the income of this Associa- tion is very inadequate.” Another mentions: “ Again we submit to you our Annual Report, showing about the situation of the con- cern among us, together with the extent of our labours therein during the past year. And notwithstanding there are many Friends among us who do not manifest that interest in the concern which we think its import- ance deserves; yet there are many others who appear quite alive in the concern, and by whose co-operation through the Auxiliary with the Parent Association, much good may arise to Friends and others within our limits.” Another states: “ We feel encouraged to persevere » 10 in what we believe to be a good cause, that of distri- buting the Holy Scriptures. Our Auxiliary has in- creased some the pust year, which is some encourage- ment, and we desire that Friends may become more and more concerned to aid in so laudable a work.” — Another remarks: “In again forwarding our Annual Report, we are under the necessity of exhibiting consi- derable deficiency in a full supply of the Holy Scriptures to all our members who are capable of reading them; yet we fee] encouraged in the belief that there is an in- creasing concern amongst Friends to furnish their chil- dren with a“copy as soon as they are capable of reading it, and we humbly hope that there is, and may be an in- creasing concern amongst Friends generally, not only _to read them themselves, but to encourage their children to the diligent perusal of them, with minds devoutly turned to their great Author.” In reviewing the proceedings of the past year, the managers feel gratified that they have been enabled to supply some of the deficiencies existing, particu- larly in remote districts. From the reports now re- ceived from different Auxiliaries, it is evident that Friends in many sections of our country, are not duly supplied with the Holy Scriptures. A single copy, of inconvenient size and badly printed, is frequently the only one possessed by a large family. One of the par- ticular objects of our Association was to publish a port- able octavo Bible, printed with large type and on fine paper, as a substitute for the kind we have alluded to, which we believe has been satisfactorily accomplished ; il and we are desirous that not only every family belong- ing to our religious Society, but every member capable of reading may possess a copy. _ Although the subject of the formation of new Auxil- iaries, has frequently been adverted to in former Reports, we would again invite the attention of Friends in neigh- _bourhoods where none have yet been established, to con- sider the duty they owe to their fellow members, who may not be duly furnished with copies of the Holy Scriptures, in endeavouring to take measures to supply them. ‘The most effective mode of ascertaining their wants in this respect, would be the formation of an Auxiliary to this Association, and we would renew the “recommendation of the founders of this Institution, that an Auxiliary be formed “within the limits of every Quarterly Meeting throughout the continent.” It appears from the Reports of many of the Auxilia- ries, that they have during the past year been engaged with commendable diligence, in endeavouring to perform the duties assigned them, and that many of our fellow- members have through their instrumentality been sup- plied with the Holy Scriptures; yet it is apparent that a wide field for labour still remains, and we would en- courage them to persevere in the work. The Auxiliary Associations being the executive branches of the Institution, the managers must con- tinue to rely chiefly upon them for such information as will enable them to apply in a suitable manner, the an- nual income at their disposal. In concluding their Report, the managers would in- 12 vite the continued co-operation of Friends in promoting the important objects of this Association. In the per- formance of the duties devolving upon them, they have been encouraged by the consideration, that the religious Society with which they are connected, has always been careful to impress upon its members the importance of a frequent and serious perusal of the Holy Scriptures, considering them “the only fit outward judge of con- troversies among Christians; and that whatsoever doc- trine is contrary unto their testimony, may therefore justly be’ rejected as false.” ‘They believe as expressed by George Fox, “that they were given forth by the Holy Spirit of God ;” “that they are to be read, believed, and fulfilled, (he that fulfils them is Christ) and they are profitable for reproof, for correction, for instruction in. righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works, and are able to make wise unto salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.” The advices issued from time to time by the Society to its members, clearly set forth the concern of the body on this subject. In the year 1723 the follow- ing was issued, viz: “Inasmuch as the Holy Scriptures are the external means of conveying and preserving to us an account of the things most surely to be believed, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in the flesh, and the fulfilling of the prophecies relating thereto, we therefore recommend to all Friends, especially elders in the church, and masters of families, that they would both by exam- ple and advice, impress on the minds of the younger, a 13 reverent esteem of those Sacred Writings, and advise them to a frequent reading and meditating therein.” Again in the year 1743, the attention of Friends was _ called to the subject in the following language, viz: “ We think it especially necessary at this time, to re- mind you of the former advices respecting a frequent and diligent reading of the Holy Scriptures: the doc- trines contained in these Inspired Writings, duly at- _ tended to, and firmly impressed upon the minds of our young people, may be a means of preserving them from the danger and infection of such corrupt and irreligious principles, as, having a tendency to the exaltation of self and human abilities, would lessen their dependence on the power and Spirit of God, their only security and preservation.” Signed on behalf and by direction of the Board of Managers. WILLIAM BETTLE, Secretary. Philadelphia, 4th mo. 16th, 1846. QUERIES ADDRESSED TO AUXILIARIES. 1. What number of families or individuals have been gratui- tously furnished with the Holy Scriptures by the Association, since its establishment; and how many during the past year? 2. What number of Bibles and Testaments have been sold by the Association, since its commencement; and how many within the past year? 3. How many members, male and female, are there belong- ing to the Association ? Id 4. Are there any families of Friends within your limits not duly supplied with the Holy Scriptures; and if so, how many? 5. How many members of our Society, capable of reading the Bible, do not own a copy? 6. How many Bibles or Testaments may probably be dis- posed of by sale, or to Friends within your limits? 7. Is the income of the Auxiliary sufficient to furnish a copy of the Bible to each family, and to each member of our religi- ous Society, within your limits, capable of reading it, but not owning a copy, nor able to purchase one? . 8. If not, what number of copies, if gratuitously furnished by the Bible Association, would enable the Auxiliary to supply such families and individuals ? | Rules for the government of the Auxiliary Associations. The objects and Constitution of the Bible Association of — Friends in America, having the approbation of this meeting, it is agreed, that a Society be now formed under the following rules, to be called the “ Auxiliary Bible Association of Friends,” for the purpose of supplying Friends and others, in this vicinity, with the Holy Scriptures, encouraging the frequent and serious perusal of them, and promoting a more accurate knowledge of their invaluable contents; also, of co-operating with the Bible Association of Friends in America, in furthering their important objects in other places. RULES. ‘ Ist. Any person paying to the Treasurer _ dollars at one time, or dollars annually, and being a member of the re- ; ligious Society of Friends, shall be a member of this Associa-_ tion. 2nd. Any member of the Bible Association of Friends in — America, residing in this district, shall be considered a member of this Auxiliary Association. a : 15 3rd. The officers of this Association shall be a Secretary, Treasurer, and a Committee of Correspondence. 4th. The Committee of Correspondence shall consist of the Secretary, Treasurer, and members to be chosen annu- ally: they shall have the power of filling vacancies in their own body, and shall be authorized to act on behalf of the Association, during its recess: they shall meet monthly, and keep fair minutes of all their proceedings, which, with the cor- respondence, shall be laid before the Association at its Quar- terly meetings. members shall form a quorum. 5th. The Association shall meet once in three months, on the day of . At the first Quarterly Meeting in each _ year, a statement of the accounts, and of the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed, and on hand, shall be exhibited ; the several officers appointed; and a detailed report of the pro- ceedings during the preceding year, be prepared and forwarded _ to the Secretary of the Bible Association of Friends in Ame- rica; to attend the annual meeting of which, delegates may be appointed. 6th. The amount of subscriptions and donations to this Asso- ciation, after deducting the necessary expenses, shall be remit- ted annually to the Treasurer of the Bible Association of Friends in America, in consideration of the provision made in the tenth article of its Constitution, viz: ‘The full amount paid by Aux- iliary Societies to the Treasurer of this Association, shall be’ returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in Bibles or Testaments at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the acting committee; but all sums not so demanded, shall remain at the disposal of this Association, to aid in promoting its general objects.” 7th. Every subscriber to this Association shall be entitled to a return of one-half of the amount of his life or annual sub- scription, in Bibles or Testaments at cost, under such regula- tions as may be hereafter adopted. 16 8th. The members of the Association shall appoint commit- tees, whose duty it shall be to solicit subscriptions in their re- spective neighbourhoods, and to inquire what families, individu- als or schools, are in want of Bibles or Testaments, and make report thereof to the Association or the Committee of Corres- pondence, in order that they may be promptly supplied, either at prime cost or otherwise, according to circumstances. 9th. A list of such committees shall be kept by the Secre- tary; and at every Quarterly Meeting, each committee shall be called upon to report the state of its neighbourhood; the amount of moneys collected, and the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed or required. “ 10th. Any member, ceasing to be a member of the religious — Society of Friends, shal] cease to be a member of this Associ- ation. 17 AUXILIARY SOCIETIES. Vassalborough, Maine, Auxiliary Bible Association New York, New York, do. Scipio, do. do. Farmington, do. do. Cornwall, do. do. Duanesburg, do. do. Purchase, do. do. Saratoga, do. do. Ferrisburg, Vermont, do. Yonge Street, Upper Canada, do. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, do. Bucks, do. do. Red Stone, do. do. Burlington, New Jersey, do. Salem, do. do. Haddonfield, do. do. Upper Quarterly Meeting, Va., do. New Garden, N. C., do. Deep River, do. do. Southern, do. do. Eastern, do. do. Stillwater, Ohio, do. Miami, do. do. Salem, do. do. Alum Creek do. do. Centre, do. do. Flushing, do. do. Fairfield, do. do. New Garden, Indiana, do. Blue River, do. do. White Water, do. do. White Lick, do. do. Westfield, do. do. Springfield, do. do. Western, do. do. Spiceland, do. do. Hamilton, do. do. Salem, Jowa, do. 8 @ SH FORMS OF LEGACY. 1. Form of a Bequest of Personal Estate. “I give and bequeath to A. B. and A. C. and the survivor of them, and the executors and administrators of such survivor, the sum of in trust for the use of an institution in Philadelphia, 3 18 known by the name of ‘The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and to be paid by the said Trustees to the Treasurer for the time being of the said Institution.” 2. Form of a Devise of Real Estate. “T give and devise to A. B. and C. D. and their heirs, all that (here describe the property) together with the appurtenances, to hold to them, the said A. B. and C. D. and the survivor of them, and the heirs of such survivors for ever; in trust nevertheless for the sole use and benefit of an Institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and upon this further trust, absolutely to dispose of, and convey the same, either in fee, or for such other estate, and in such way and manner, as the members of the said Association shall, at any meeting or meetings, order, di- rect, and appoint.” The Depository of the Bible Association is at No. 50 North Fourth street, a few doors above Arch street. Communications respecting the business of the office may be addressed to George W. Taylor, Agent. o~~———_~—_~-_—--——-- —-—— > BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. DEPOSITORY No. 50 NORTH FOURTH STREET, UP STAIRS, PHILA. PRICES OF BIBLES AND TESTAMENTS. or ember orm! Reta! vo “Dane < ven How Bount. s Price. Reference Bible | Tijex & Concer, | S4per- 8vo, | No.8| 1 vol. | Calf, pt. bk. &e.| $4.00 | $4 00 do. do. do. do. do. | 2vols.| do. do. 50 50 do. do. do. do, do. | 3 vols. do. 600 600. do. do, do. do. do, | 2 vols, | Muslin........|/ 350 35 do. do. Fine | do. | No.4/| 1 vol. | Shp. pt. bk.&e.] 1 75 200 do, do. do, do. do. | 2vole | do. do, 22 2s do. do. do. do. do. | 3vole.| do do. 2 75 30 do, do, do. do. | No. 5/1 vok | Culf, do, 225 230 do. do. do. do. do. | 2 vol« do, 325 350 do. do, do. do, do. | 3vola.| do. do, 4% 40 Belool Bibles 00sec cveccssscccesccceccad’s do. | No. 1 | Lvol. | Sh do. 1» 1s GO. cn ccnsececcccccccccccccececes 2mo. | No. 2/| 1 vol. | Plain Sheep.. 65 75 de. - dalibbaddbébieutvéccenscssces do. | No.6} 1 vol. oa flexible bk oO 10 - Cncorcccnevcesdopcccevestedsecs do, do. | 1 vol. 175 2 00 oscahbescesded csccenetec MIU do. do. | lvol. | do. me & gilt 2 25 25 New Tostemsast Wes cecvenccocvensosdeneed Gi Po ccteel cccese Lene Sheep 10 ce unavecpenensabuncebere a! Boas back keane SVOT ocnapses 124 Ga. deccccschbanbtdhe mained A ee bands... 25 2 do. CRE eee ee ee eee do. eseeee | eveeee ce. embossed. : 75 75 ; GO. 5, & Ove ccacnancapenebochenena Bou ftacocoe Pilecees do, > 3. ae 100 10 do. SPO eee eee eee do. eee tee] eee eee 1 oo 1 00 Ga. == ew eece cons mnenedseeounes GO. doseses| sancas Pocket bk. form 75 75 éo. od obcg ses Socvcodecdsctes Mma, fo se oe Pieesst nd - = _ (| 2 #2 + ee eee ee ee ee ee eee do. e*teeee ) tee eee ain Sheep. **. Gas «| | sede 6b cs cteindbaligdscbnble do. », extra... 55 65 EIGHTEENTH ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION FRIENDS IN AMERICA: READ AT THE ADJOURNED ANNUAL MEETING, HELD ON THE EVEN- ING OF THE TWENTY-FIRST OF FOURTH MONTH, 1847. PHILADELPHIA: PRINTED BY JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, APPLE-TREE ALLEY, SECOND DOOR ABOVE FOURTH 87, 1847. OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION, OOOO CHARLES ELLIS, Secrerary. BENJAMIN H. WARDER, Treasurer. _eeesneSse eSaesS EVh CORRESPONDING MEMBERS. THOMAS KIMBER, PAUL W. NEWHALL, CHARLES YARNALL. MANAGERS. JOHN LIPPINCOTT, THEOPHILUS E. BEESLEY, HORATIO C. WOOD, JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, WILLIAM BETTLE, JOHN CARTER, ROBERT SMITH, GEORGE WILLIAMS, i | } , TOWNSEND SHARPLESS, : DANIEL B. SMITH, JEREMIAH HACKER, JOHN ELLIOTT, GEORGE G. WILLIAMS, CHARLES WILLIAMS. SAMUEL BETTLE, Jr. TO THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. Oe Tue Managers Report, that 2332 Bibles, and 2760 Testaments, and 123 Testaments and Psalms have been disposed of during the year ;—of which 464 Bibles, and 384 Testaments, and 55 Testaments and Psalms were sold to Auxiliaries. 1570 Bibles, and 2156 Testaments, and 33 Testaments and Psalms have been distributed gratuitously. Of this number, 910 Bibles, and 1142 Testaments, were furnished to Auxiliary Associations, for gratuitous distribution, or for sale at a reduction from the list of prices, to those who were not well able to pay the full price. Since last Report, 1000 Reference Bibles, and 2000 _24mo. Testaments, have been printed, and an edition of 2000 12mo. ‘Testaments ordered. The whole number of Bibles and Testaments, dis- posed of by the Association, since its establishment in the year 1828, is 46,081, viz. 25,703 of the former; and 20,378 of the latter. Of the Bibles thus distributed, 15,196 contained the Marginal References. Reflecting upon the number of families and individu- als who have, by means of this Association, been fur- nished with these excellent copies of the Holy Scriptures, er _ eae ee ee ee ee ee i ae b and with the facility for comparing one part of their contents with others—there appears to the Managers sufficient reason for the belief, that the Institution has been productive of good; and has, in no small measure, answered the purposes of those by whom it was founded. A summary of the receipts and payments during the year, will be found annexed; as also a statement of the Stock of Books on hand, on the first instant. Under an impression, that in some places the zeal of Friends for the promotion of the objects of the Associa- tion had somewhat abated, and that especially in the more recent settlements, it might be useful to call the attention of our fellow-members, to the importance a more careful investigation of the deficiencies in the supply of Bibles, with a view to supplying from the funds at the disposal of the Board, the wants of those who could not well afford to purchase for themselves, a Circular was issued by the Committee of Correspond- ence, in the Sixth month last, in which a revival of Auxiliaries whose operations have been suspended— the formation of new ones, and a careful inspection of the wants of Friends, were suggested. From the an- swers to this Circular, which have come to hand, there is reason to believe that it was attended with beneficial results. Three Auxiliaries, which had been suspended, have been revived, and a new one formed in Michigan. A number of Friends in different parts of the country, have manifested increased interest in the circulation of the Holy Scriptures, and thus new channels have been opened for the gratuitous supply of Bibles; and the 7 Managers have been enabled usefully to appropriate a larger amount of their income to this object, than at any former period. _ The manner in which the Bibles and Testaments, thus gratuitously furnished, have been received by Friends, has evinced their sense of the value of the gift, and afforded much satisfaction to the Managers. One Auxiliary remarks; “ We feel grateful, that through the liberality of the Parent Association, we have been in- strumental in furnishing an unusual number of our mem- bers, who were not able to furnish themselves with the inestimable volume of Sacred Writ. We feel bound to acknowledge, that the benevolent work in which we have been engaged, has been beneficial, both to ourselves and those who have been the peculiar objects of our care. We doubt not, that when these donations are made under the influence of that love, that feels equally solicitous for the good of a brother with ourselves, this precious feeling becomes mutual.” The same Auxiliary remarks ; “that forty copies are necessary to furnish those within their limits, who are not supplied, and are not very well able to supply themselves.” Another Association ob- serves; “It has afiorded us peculiar satisfaction, to be instrumental in distributing your bounty to the needy, and to witness the gratitude manifested by the recipients generally ; and perhaps no portion of the service has been attended with more comfortable reflections, or pro- ductive of more usefulness, than the distribution of a large number of the small ‘Testaments, among the chil- dren of a school under the care of Friends.” ‘There are a large number of the descendants of Friends, i ieee tg ‘ > ee ae ee oe ee 8 scattered over a portion of [the country within our limits,] by whom a copy of the Holy Scriptures would be received as a rich treasure; and we would ch undertake the distribution of some among them, should you see fit to furnish them for that purpose.” Of the thirty-nine Auxiliary Associations, twenty-one have forwarded Reports this year, viz. Burlington and Haddonfield, N. J. ;—Flushing, Stillwater, Short Creek, Fairfield and Alum Creek, Ohio; Blue River, Spiceland, Westfield, Springfield, Western, White Water, White Lick and Hamilton, Indiana ;— Yonge Street, Upper Canada; Adrian, Michigan ;—Salem, lowa; Vassalbo- rough, Maine ; — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and — River, North Carolina. They show, that while in the older settlements Friends’ families are generally pretty well supplied, there are still many individuals who do not possess copies, to whom they might be very useful. While in the new settlements, there continues to be a want of suitable Bibles in many families, and a great deficiency in the supply for individual use. The Managers are desirous of promoting the increase of Auxiliary Associations ; and where circumstances do not admit of the formation of an Auxiliary, they have availed themselves of the services of individuals. The result has thus far been satisfactory ; and it is proposed, with due caution, to extend this mode of promoting the sale and distribution of Bibles. The attention of the Board has been directed to sup- plying the Schools under the care of Friends; especi- ally in those parts of the country, which seem to have a claim upon our gratuitous fund. 9 _ It has also been gratifying to the Managers, that they have had it in their power to contribute a number of }) Bibles and Testaments, to a School established in the ‘state of Tennessee, for the instruction of children of persons held in slavery. In looking towards supplying the wants of Schools, the Managers have frequently felt the need of an edition of the Holy Scriptures, in a larger type than our small |) Bible; and yet sufficiently portable for children. They have reason to believe, that were it in their power to furnish such a copy of the Old and New Testament, it would tend to increase the use of the Scriptures in our ‘Schools, and confer a benefit upon a very interesting class of readers. ‘The cost of the stereotype plates for such an edition, would be about $1300. The Mana- gers do not think it expedient to incur so heavy a charge upon their funds; but they are persuaded, that it is an object well worthy of the favourable regard of such Friends, as may be willing to contribute towards the extension of the usefulness of the Association. The cost of Bibles and Testaments having been somewhat lessened, a considerable reduction in the prices of most descriptions has been made, in the hope _ of promoting their increased sale and distribution. When they reflect upon the lamentable deficiency in the supply of suitable copies of the Holy Scriptures, which existed when this Association was formed, and upon the change which has been eflected, especially in the more densely populated parts of the country, the Managers are persuaded, that there is ground for en- couragement to renewed exertion. ‘The experience of the 2 10 past year has been satisfactory, and it cannot be doubted that a wide field is still open for the labours of this As- sociation, which with the Divine blessing, cannot fail reward those who enter upon it, from a sincere desi to promote the cause of Truth, and the highest interests of their fellow men. Signed on behalf and by direction of the Board o Managers. WILLIAM BETTLE, Secretary. Philadelphia, 4th month 15th, 1847. —— — Ee . [> At the late Annual Meeting of the Association, the 14th Article of the Constitution was altered, so as to read as fi lows: viz. Articte 14.—The Annual Meeting of the Association, shall be held in Philadelphia, on the evening of the Seventh-day, pre- ceding the third Second-day in the Fourth month; at which time the officers shall be appointed. ween ee ne eee ee Summary of Receipts and Payments, referred to in the Report, taken from the Treasurer's Account. PAYMENTS. Agent’s Salary, ; : : é . $400 00 Printing, ; , ; ; ‘ . 298 08 Binding, . ‘ ° : , . . 848 14 Paper, . ; ‘ : ; ; . 1012 77 Incidental Expenses, 138 47 Notes discounted $2077, ve interest $69 15 2007 85 il ed RECEIPTS. 4.) From Auxiliary Associations, . ; e $471 59 Sales of Bibles and Testaments, 7 ; 996 77 Rents of Depository Building, $1253 75— ) 1068. 20 less Taxes and Repairs, $200 55 , Interest on Lehigh Mortgage Loan, . 2 1 36 Annual Subscriptions and Donations, . : 65 88 Notes collected, $1227 52—less interest, $3 85 1224 17 . $3812 97 Balance of account settled 4th mo. 6th, 1846, Ble 836 27 due to the Association, 4 Balance due the Treasurer 4th mo. 3rd, 1847, 56 07 $4705 31 Stock of Books on hand 4th mo. Ist, 1847. BOUND. 264 Reference Bibles, 8vo. 226 School & 24mo. 442 ‘Testaments, 24mo. 196s 12mo. | 44 Testaments and Psalms, 12mo. IN SHEETS. 1140 Reference Bibles, 8vo. 7 41 School “ 8vo. 626 « ‘“« 24mo. 1622 ‘Testaments, 24mo. 330 Testaments and Psalms, 12mo. “_—~ AAAAAAAAA SA QUERIES ADDRESSED TO AUXILIARIES, 1. What number of families or individuals have been gratui- tously furnished with the Holy Scriptures by the Association, since its establishment; and how many during the past year? 2. What number of Bibles and Testaments have been sold by the Association, since its commencement; and how many within the past year? 3. How many members, male and female, are there belong- ing to the Association? ot ode ee rm 4. Are there any families of Friends within your limits not duly supplied with the Holy Scriptures; and if so, how many? 5. How many members of our Society, capable of reading the Bible, do not own a copy? 6. How many Bibles or Testaments may probably be dis- posed of by sale, or to Friends within your limits? 7. Is the income of the Auxiliary sufficient to furnish a copy of the Bible to each family, and to each member of our religi- ous Society, within your limits, capable of reading it, but not owning a copy, nor able to purchase one? 8. If not, what number of copies, if gratuitously furnished by the Bible Association, would enable the Auxiliary to supply such families and individuals? Rules for the government of the Auxiliary Associations. The objects and Constitution of the Bible Association of Friends in America, having the approbation of this meeting, it is agreed, that a Society be now formed under the following rules, to be called the “ Auxiliary Bible Association of Friends,” for the purpose of supplying Friends and others, in this vicinity, with the Holy Scriptures, encouraging the frequent and serious perusal of them, and promoting a more accurate knowledge of their invaluable contents; also, of co-operating with the Bible Association of Friends in America, in furthering their important objects in other places. RULES. Ist. Any person paying to the Treasurer dollars at one time, or dollars annually, and being a member of the re- ligious Society of Friends, shall be a member of this Associa- tion. 2nd. Any member of the Bible Association of Friends in America, residing in this district, shall be considered a member of this Auxiliary Association. 13 _ 8rd. The officers of this Association shall be a Secretary, Treasurer, and a Committee of Correspondence. 4th. The Committee of Correspondence shall consist of the Secretary, Treasurer, and members to be chosen annu- ally: they shall have the power of filling vacancies in their own body, and shall be authorized to act on behalf of the Association, during its recess: they shall meet monthly, and keep fair minutes of all their proceedings, which, with the cor- respondence, shall be laid before the Association at its Quarterly meetings. members shall form a quorum. 5th. The Association shall meet once in three months, on the day of . At the first Quarterly Meeting in each year, a statement of the accounts, and of the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed, and on hand, shall be exhibited ; the several officers appointed; and a detailed report of the pro- ceedings during the preceding year, be prepared and forwarded to the Secretary of the Bible Association of Friends in Ame- rica; to attend the annual meeting of which, delegates may be appointed. 6th. The amount of subscriptions and donations to this Asso- ciation, after deducting the necessary expenses, shall be remit- ted annually to the Treasurer of the Bible Association of Friends in America, in consideration of the provision made in the tenth article of its Constitution, viz: “The full amount paid by Aux- iliary Societies to the Treasurer of this Association, shall be returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in Bibles or Testaments at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the acting committee; but all sums not so demanded, shall remain at the disposal of this Association, to aid in promoting its general objects.” 7th. Every subscriber to this Association shall be entitled to a return of one-half of the amount of his life or annual sub- scription, in Bibles or Testaments at cost, under such regula- tions as may be hereafter adopted. eee eA i a een Ry Ce a eee 14 sth. The members of the Association shall appoint commit- tees, whose duty it shall be to solicit subscriptions in their re- spective neighbourhoods, and to inquire what families, individu- als or schools, are in want of Bibles or Testaments, and make report thereof to the Association or the Committee of Corres- pondence, in order that they may be promptly supplied, either at prime cost or otherwise, according to circumstances. 9h. A list of such committees shall be kept by the Secre- tary; and at every Quarterly Meeting, each committee shall be called upon to report the state of its neighbourhood; the amount of moneys collected, and the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed or required. 10th. Any member ceasing to be a member of the religious Society of Friends, shall cease to be a member of this Associ- ation. 15 AUXILIARY SOCIETIES. Vassalborough, Maine, Auxiliary Bible Association. New York, New York, do. Scipio, do, do. Farmington, do. do. Cornwall, do. do. Duanesburg, do. do. Purchase, do. do. Saratoga, do. do. Ferrisburg, Vermont, do. Yonge Street, Upper Canada, do. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, do. Bucks, do. do. Red Stone, do. do. Burlington, New Jersey, do. Salem, do. do. Haddonfield, do. do. Upper Quarterly Meeting, Va., _— do. New Garden, N. C., do. Deep River, do. do. Southern, do. do. Eastern, do. do. Stillwater, Ohio, do. Miami, do. do. Salem, do. do. Alum Creek, do. do. Centre, do. do. Flushing, do. do. Fairfield, do. do. New Garden, Indiana, do. Blue River, do. do. White Water, do. do. White Lick, do. do. Westfield, do, do. Springfield, do. do. Western, do. do. Spiceland, do. do. Hamilton, do. do. Salem, Iowa, do. Adrian, Michigan, do. — Sto FORMS OF LEGACY. 1. Form of a Bequest of Personal Estate. «IT give and bequeath to A. B. and A. C, and the survivor of them, and the executors and administrators of such survivor, the sum of in trust for the use of an Institution in Philadelphia, o2. we Par pss edit tyne, 6 BAe aS a eer See ee ¥ ee ee il See a a a 16 known by the name of «The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and to be paid by the said Trustees to the Treasurer for the time being of the said Institution.” 2. Form of a Devise of Real Estate. «T give and devise to A. B. and C. D. and their heirs, all that (here describe the property) together with the appurtenances, to hold to them, the said A. B. and C, D. and the survivor of them, and the heirs of such survivors for ever; in trust nevertheless for the sole use and benefit of an Institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘ The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and upon this further trust, absolutely to dispose of, and convey the same, either in fee, or for such other estate, and in such way and manner, as the members of the said Association shall, at any meeting or meetings, order, di- rect, and appoint. The Depository of the Bible Association is at No, 50 North Fourth street, a few doors above Arch street. Communications respecting the business of the office may be addressed to George W. Taylor, Agent. ~~ ee et eee ee re eee PO ewes om OLA LOLA AAPL AALLALA RAL Say BIBLE BIBLE ASSOCI ATION OF FRI ENDS IN AMERICA. ? DEPOSITORY No. 50 NORTH FOURTH STREET, UP STAIRS, PHILA. ; | PRICES OF BIBLES AND TESTAMENTS. | } Sible ‘or 'Nuanber] 3 Aa =e | met bao we i. MTesta. lof Bible |of Vou.| How Round. = oes Be . ment ates Bite nee Coma | HP ee do. do. 6 00 do. on do 30 ; do. do. Fine 1 75 do. do, do. 2 25 do. do. do. 275 do. do, do. 23 do. do. do. 3 25 do. do. do 4% EL cin oc dae ke diane dbo cbt 75 OE ee en, ME oes ace 1 0 ay MT Bic iu oddandéacdtiits actnek 6 200 Rt De eS 25 et. ic dias db dakauenebes 10 a io ieee ee 12 Oe i$ \weeseedudccesacaseonseae 2 mi —SsCapbceneauhcdal Ga 75 - 2 & .webdld-laannwkt..e 1 00 a © + atietndtedmmanestoastal 75 | ii seats Terctiekadells Pinan attend 31} a.” dceetbannhuwcs aaeeeeanes 44 Reet oe tishenideain ciliate: Maca 60 | Testament and Poalms, bound together . . = Oe. PPP PFO OO _ - ~ THE NINETEENTH ANNUAL REPORT OF THE - BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA: READ AT THE ANNUAL MEETING, HELD ON THE EVENING OF THE FIFTEENTH OF FOURTH MONTH, 1848. PHILADELPHIA: PRINTED BY JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, APPLE-TREE ALLEY, FIRST DOOR ABOVE FOURTH 8. 1848. OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION. CHARLES ELLIS, Secrerary. BENJAMIN H. WARDER, Treasurer. CORRESPONDING MEMBERS, THOMAS KIMBER, PAUL W. NEWHALL, CHARLES YARNALL. GEORGE WILLIAMS, JEREMIAH HACKER, JOHN ELLIOTT, JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, JOHN CARTER, TOWNSEND SHARPLESS, GEORGE G. WILLIAMS, SAMUEL BETTLE, Jr. MANAGERS. JOHN LIPPINCOTT, THEOPHILUS E BEESLEY, HORATIO C. WOOD, WILLIAM BETTLE, ROBERT SMITH, DANIEL B. SMITH, CHARLES WILLIAMS. TO(;(THE 4 BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. Tue Managers present the following Report of their proceedings during the past year: There have been issued from the Depository for the year ending Fourth month Ist, 1848,—4428 Bibles, 3992 Testaments, and 354 Testaments and Psalms, of which 565 Bibles, 420 Testaments, and 102 Testaments and Psalms were sold to Auxiliaries. 1314 Bibles, 1727 Testaments, and 105 Testaments and Psalms have been gratuitously disposed of. Of this number 1020 Bibles, 1531 Testaments, and 50 Testa- ments and Psalms were furnished to Auxiliaries for gra- tuitous distribution, or for sale at a reduction from the list prices, to such as might not be able to pay the full price. From the above account, it appears there has been an increase of issues from the Depository over the previous year, of 2096 Bibles, 1232 Testaments, and 231 Tes- taments and Psalms. Since last Report, 2000 Reference Bibles, 2000 School Bibles, 2000 12 mo. Testaments, and 3000 24 mo. Tes- taments have been printed. ‘The stereotype plates of { 4 the Reference Bible have been thoroughly repaired and corrected by a competent workman. A summary of the receipts and payments during the year, taken from the Treasurer’s account, also a state- ment of the stock of books on hand on the Ist instant, will be found annexed. é‘ We have received information (since last Report,) of the establishment of an Auxiliary, at New Garden, Indi- ana, and of the revival of one which had suspended its operations for several years past. It is very desirable that the number of these Associations should be in- creased, and the Managers would again call the atten- tion of Friends within the limits of Quarterly Meetings, where none have yet been formed, to the subject, in the hope that efforts may be made to promote their estab- lishment. Reports have been received from sixteen Auxiliaries, viz: Vassalborouvgh, Maine; Fairfield, Flushing, and Centre, Ohio; Blue River, White Water, White Lick, New Garden Central, Westfield, Spiceland, Hamilton, and Springfield, Indiana; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Adrian, Michigan; Burlington, N. J.; and Salem, Iowa. Satisfac- tory accounts have also been received from several indi- viduals, to whom the distribution and sale of Bibles and Testaments had been entrusted, and we hope for an in- crease in the number of Friends, who may feel a willing- ness to promote the objects of the Association, by mak- ing inquiry in their respective neighbourhoods, as to the wants of Friends, and forwarding the result to the Man- agers. Where Auxiliaries cannot be formed, it may still be found desirable occasionally to avail ourselves of D the services of suitably qualified friends, in promoting the sale and distribution of our Bibles. From the Reports of a number of the Auxiliaries which have been received, it appears that they have been diligently engaged during the past year in ascer- taining the wants of Friends within their limits, and supplying them with Bibles and Testaments, so far as their means have enabled them. One Auxiliary states in its Report, that “though the number of Friends un- supplied with complete copies of the Holy Scriptures is not much reduced, we can recur to many aged Friends who liave been through your benevolence supplied with good reference Bibles, who before had small school Bi- bles; and many newly married Friends, as well as other individuals, just beginning, as it were, in this compara- tively [uncleared] country, now niccly, and we have cause to believe gratefully supplied with complete copies.” Thus, while the object of the parent Association is faith- fully carried out, “that of supplying the destitute with good legible copies of the Holy Scriptures, and encour- aging the frequent and serious perusal of them,” we can- not doubt that they will prove, as they declare them- selves, able to make wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus, and that the blessing re- corded in them, respecting those that seek out the cause of the poor and needy, will in proportion to their faith- fulness rest upon them. Another Auxiliary observes, ‘‘ We hope that by means of the very liberal donation received of you, and the pa- tient and persevering endeavours of a few of our own members, all the members of our Monthly Meeting will . af ; ad C0 EARL 6 eventually be furnished with full copies of the Holy Scriptures, and we shall be glad to do all we can to effect the same desirable result within the limits of our Quarterly Meeting.” Another states, “'There have been a great many Bi- bles and Testaments sent here the past summer, by other Bible Societies, and sold at very low prices or given away, which has supplied the demand to some extent, although many prefer our books, as being neater and better executed.” Another remarks, “We believe much good has arisen through our feeble endeavours to circulate the Holy Scriptures. In addition to what our Auxiliary has done, we acknowledge with thankfulness, the valuable dona- tions of the Parent Association, which have afforded ability gratuitously to furnish many who were not well able to furnish themselves. We feel encouraged to con- tinue our exertions to promote the objects of the Asso- ciation in furnishing each member of our Society who is capable of reading the Holy Scriptures, with a good and durable copy.” Another reports, “Although our operations the past year have not been large, yet they have probably been as useful as in any previous year. We believe there is an increasing interest felt in assisting to furnish all our members with a copy of the Holy Scriptures.” Another informs, “ We have during the past year had a committee appointed, who have made inquiry and sup- plied each member of our religious Society capable of reading, who was destitute of a copy and unable to pur- chase it, so far as they have been able to find [such 7 cases;| and we think that we shall be able to keep such deficiency supplied as may occur during the ensuing year.” Another Auxiliary states, that from the report of the committee of correspondence and of the Female Branch, it appeared that during the past year, 46 Bibles and 5 Testaments have been distributed; in which service our Female Branch has been very helpful to us. Application being made to the committee of cor- respondence by a coloured first-day school for a supply of Bibles, and the committee to whom the subject was re- ferred believing that a donation of Bibles would be use- fully appropriated, twenty-four small Bibles were accord- ingly furnished, and are included in the number above specified. Although it is believed that very few, if any, Friends within our limits are destitute of the Holy Scrip- tures, cases are occasionally brought to our notice which show the propriety of continuing our organization. From the Report of one of our distant Auxiliaries we extract the following: “In again presenting to you our Annual Report, we feel constrained to acknow- ledge our feelings of gratitude to the Parent Association for its very liberal donations, by which we have been enabled to furnish many Friends with a copy of the Holy Scriptures, who otherwise would in all probability not have had a copy. We also think it right to inform you, that the recipients have generally manifested a lively interest in the perusal of them, which has afforded us much satisfaction, and has encouraged us to persevere in the good work. In looking over the wide field of 8 labour which has fallen to our lot since the establish- ment of our Auxiliary, we feel that a very great degree of responsibility is resting upon us; and in order that you may in some degree appreciate the difficulties which we have to encounter in rendering our account to the Parent Association, we believe it right to inform you that the number of members belonging to the two Month- ly Meetings [within our limits] is about two thousand five hundred, and they are scattered over an extent of territory more than 300 miles in circumference. We have, however, taken care that copies of the Holy Scrip- tures should be distributed in many of these remote sec- tions, and many have been in this manner furnished, who could not have furnished themselves. In these remote settlements Friends are generally not in circumstances to be able to purchase suitable copies of the Bible, and therefore those distributed in such places, are generally donations which much curtails the amount which we otherwise might send you for the sale of Bibles. But notwithstanding this, we believe it is the design of the Parent Association that such should be supplied, and therefore we have furnished them accordingly. We wish further to add, that we feel encouraged, notwith- standing the many difficulties we have to encounter, from the increasing interest manifested by Friends on the sub- ject, and the gratefulness of recipients.” Another Auxiliary mentions, “We have gratefully to acknowledge the receipt of a valuable donation in Bibles and Testaments, many of which have been disposed of ; some by sales and some gratuitously; and we may add that it afforded us satisfaction to be the instruments in 9 dispensing your liberality to the needy, and often to hear the expression of gratitude from the lips of the glad re- cipients.” Another Auxiliary states: “Those reported as having been gratuitously distributed, were received by the indi- viduals to whom they were given with feelings of lively gratitude, demonstrating the interest they felt in the gift. “We feel in this Auxiliary very much encouraged, partly by the beneficent donation of the Parent Associ- ation (which we gratefully acknowledge,) and which has enabled us to widen our sphere of action, by reducing the price sufficiently low to enable many young Friends in very moderate circumstances to purchase Bibles or Testaments for themselves, but more especially because we see a more lively inferest in the cause manifested by our elderly Friends, both in attending the meetings of the Auxiliary more regularly, and imparting wise coun- sel and advice to the younger members, strengthening their weak hands and faltering steps. “We are fully persuaded this is a good cause, and humbly trust that you as well as ourselves, may be en- abled with divine assistance to persevere therein.” Another informs: “We have the satisfaction of in- forming you, that we have still continued our labours in the cause the past year, believing they have been satis- factory and useful, especially to a portion of our mem- bers, who in settling new lands have many difficulties to encounter.” Another Auxiliary thus concludes its Report: “We are aware that it is but little this Association can effect, towards extending the circulation of the Holy Scriptures. 2 10 Our aim is not to accomplish great things, but in the ability afforded to do whatsoever our hands find to do; trusting that He whose cause we are endeavouring to promote, will at times bless our feeble efforts. And should the perusal of these inspired pages be instru- mental to cheer a few sorrowing pilgrims on their jour- ney Zionward, to stir up the pure mind by way of re- membrance in others, or to induce one wanderer from the true fold, to seek Him of whom they testify, we shall not have done the little that we have done, in vain.” We could have desired that all of the Auxiliaries might have forwarded Reports of their proceedings du- ring the past year. By those received, and from infor- mation derived from other sources, the Managers are encouraged to believe that the Association continues, to a considerable extent, to fulfil the design of its founders, by supplying Friends with good copies of the Holy Scriptures, and promoting the frequent and serious peru- sal of them. Much yet remains to be done, particularly in the more remote settlements, where the supply of Bibles and Testaments is still quite inadequate, and the Managers are very desirous that Friends in all parts of our widely extended country may embrace every suitable opportunity to promote the important objects of the As- sociation. Signed on behalf and by direction of the Board of Managers. WILLIAM BETTLE, Secretary. Philadelphia, Fourth month 15th, 1848. 11 [> At a late Annual Meeting of the Association, the 14th Article of the Constitution was altered, so as to read as fol- lows, viz: ArtictE 14.—The Annual Meeting of the Association, shall be held in Philadelphia, on the evening of the Seventh-day pre- ceding the third Second-day in the Fourth month; at which time the officers shall be appointed. Summary of Receipts and Payments, referred to in the Annual Report, taken from the Treasurer’s Account. PAYMENTS, Paper for Bibles and 'Testaments, Printing, do. do. Binding, do. do. Repairing Stereotype plates, Salary of Agent for 9 months, Litidental ex- penses, &c., é ‘ ‘ Repairs to Real Estate on Fourth street and Appletree Alley, Interest on temporary loan, Balance due to Treasurer per account settled, Fourth month 3rd, 1847, : RECEIPTS. From Auxiliary Associations for Bibles and ‘Testaments, : Sales of Bibles and Pes insole. Rent of Real Estate on 4th st. and Applies Alley, less taxes, water-rent, and repairs, Annual Subscriptions, Interest on Lehigh Loan, Lehigh Mortgage Loan sold, Notes collected, Balance due to “eae 4th mo. ‘Loth, "1848, $1567 41 761 29 1246 71 232 33 433 98 172 34 6 70 56 07 ————-$4476 83 meen ae $787 23 1597 56 1080 O1 57 00 82 52 17 94 849 48 55 09 ————$4476 83 é 7% > co 0 ail 2 s a nw. 12 Stock of Books on hand 4th mo. Ist, 1848. BOUND. 498 Reference Bibles, 8vo. 408 School, “ 24mo. 1010 Testaments, 24mo. 549 “ 12mo. 80 Testaments and Psalms, 12mo. IN SHEETS. 800 Reference Bibles, 8vo. 41 School “ 8vo. 1104 « s 24mo, 2159 Testaments, 24mo. 1200 &“ 12mo. 80 Testaments and Psalms, 12mo. AAA ee ne QUERIES ADDRESSED TO AUXILIARIES, 1. What number of families or individuals have been gratui- tously furnished with the Holy Scriptures by the Association, since its establishment ; and how many during the past year? 2. What number of Bibles and Testaments have been sold by the Association, since its commencement; and how many within the past year? 3. How many members, male and female, are there belong- ing to the Association ? 4, Are there any families of Friends within your limits not duly supplied with the Holy Scriptures; and if so, how many? 5. How many members of our Society, capable of reading the Bible, do not own a copy? 6. How many Bibles or Testaments may probably be dis- posed of by sale, or to Friends within your limits? 7. Is the income of the Auxiliary sufficient to furnish a copy of the Bible to each family, and to each member of our religi- ous Society, within your limits, capable of reading it, but not owning a copy, nor able to purchase one ! 13 8. If not, what number of copies, if gratuitously furnished by the Bible Association, would enable the Auxiliary to supply. such families and individuals? Rules for the government of the Auxiliary Associations. The objects and Constitution of the Bible Association of Friends in America, having the approbation of this meeting, it is agreed, that a Society be now formed under the following rules, to be called the “ Auxiliary Bible Association of Friends,” for the purpose of supplying Friends and others, in this vicinity, with the Holy Scriptures, encouraging the frequent and serious perusal of them, and promoting a more accurate knowledge of their invaluable contents; also, of co-operating with the Bible Association of Friends in America, in furthering their important objects in other places. RULES. Ist. Any person paying to the Treasurer dollars at one time, or dollars annually, and being a member of the re- ligious Society of Friends, shall be a member of this Associa- tion. 2nd. Any member of the Bible Association of Friends in America, residing in this district, shall be considered a member of this Auxiliary Association. 3rd. The officers of this Association shall be a Secretary, Treasurer, and a Committee of Correspondence. 4th. The Committee of Correspondence shall consist of the Secretary, Treasurer, and members to be chosen annu- ally: they shall have the power of filling vacancies in their own body, and shall be authorized to act on behalf of the Association, during its recess: they shall meet monthly, and keep fair minutes of all their proceedings, which, with the cor- respondencé, shall be laid before the Association at its Quarterly meetings, members shall form a quorum. 5th. The Association shall meet once in three months, on the day of . At the first Quarterly Meeting in each year, a statement of the accounts, and of the number of Bibles l4 and Testaments distributed, and on hand, shall be exhibited ; the several officers appointed; and a detailed report of the pro- ceedings during the preceding year, be prepared and forwarded to the Secretary of the Bible Association of Friends in Ame- rica; to attend the annual meeting of which, delegates may be appointed. 6th. The amount of subscriptions and donations to this Asso- ciation, after deducting the necessary expenses, shall be remit- ted annually to the Treasurer of the Bible Association of Friends in America, in consideration of the provision made in the tenth article of its Constitution, viz: “The full amount paid by Aux- iliary Societies to the Treasurer of this Association, shall be returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in Bibles or Testaments at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the Acting Committee; but all sums not so demanded, shall remain at the disposal of this Association, to aid in promoting its general objects.” 7th. Every subscriber to this Association shall be entitled a return of one-half of the amount of his life or annual sub- scription, in Bibles or Testaments at cost, under such regul tions as may be hereafter adopted. 8th. The members of the Association shall appoint commi tees, whose duty it shall be to solicit subscriptions in their spective neighbourhoods, and to inquire what families, individ als or schools, are in want of Bibles or Testaments, and make report thereof to the Association or the Committee of Corre pondence, in order that they may be promptly supplied, eithe at prime cost or otherwise, according to circumstances. 9th. A list of such committees shall be kept by the Secre tary; and at every Quarterly Meeting, each committee shall t called upon to report the state of its neighbourhood; the amour of moneys collected, and the number of Bibles and Testament distributed or required. | 10th. Any member ceasing to be a member of the religious — Society of Friends, shall cease to be a member of this Associ ation. 15 AUXILIARY SOCIETIES. Vassalborough, Maine, Auxiliary Bible Association. New York, New York, do. Scipio, do. do. Farmington, do. do. Cornwall, do. do. Duanesburg, do. do. Purchase, do. do. Saratoga, do. do. Ferrisburg, Vermont, do. Yonge Street, Upper Canada, do. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, do. Bucks, do. do. Red Stone, dic: do. Burlington, New Jersey, do. Salem, do. do. Haddonfield, do. do. ' Upper Quarterly Meeting, Va., — do. New Garden, N. C., do. Deep River, do. do. Southern, do. do. | Eastern, do. do. . Stillwater, Ohio, do. : Miami, do. do. . Salem, do. do. | ; Alum Creek, do. do. : Centre, do, do. ; Flushing, do. do. ‘ Fairfield, do. do. Ps New Garden, Indiana, do. New Garden, Central, do. do. Blue River, do. do. White Water, do. do. White Lick, do. do. Westfield, do. do. Springfield, do. do. Western, do. do. 4 Spiceland, do. do. Hamilton, do, do. ! Salem, [owa, do. : Adrian, Michigan, do. Sto FORMS OF LEGACY. 1. Form of a Bequest of Personal Estate. _ T give and bequeath to A. B. and A. C, and the survivor of them, _ and the executors and administrators of such survivor, the sum of in trust for the use of an Institution in Philadelphia, ‘ 16 known by the name of «The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and to be paid by the said Trustees to the Treasurer for the time being of the said Institution.” 2. Form of a Devise of Real Estate. «] give and devise to A. B. and C, D. and their heirs, all that (here describe the property) together with the appurtenances, to hold to them, the said A. B. and C, D. and the survivor of them, and the heirs of such survivors for ever; in trust nevertheless for the sole use and benefit of an Institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘ The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and upon this further trust, absolutely to dispose of, and convey the same, either in fee, or for such other estate, and in such way and manner, as the members of the said Association shall, at any meeting or meetings, order, di- rect, and appoint. The Depository of the Bible Association is at No. 50 North Fourth street, a few doors above Arch street. Communications respecting the business of the office may be addressed to George W. Taylor, Agent. BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. — DEPOSITORY No. 50 NORTH FOURTH STREET, UP STAIRS, PHILA. PRICES OF BIBLES AND TESTAMENTS. Price. + faa ben | <. lore — wit am ec. nee Bible } Index & Concor. | SuPer. & $5 0 do. do. do. 6 600 do. do, do. 3 350 do. do. Fine i 175 do. do. do. 2 23 do. do. do. 2 275 do. do. do. 2 2% do. do. do. 3 3% do. do. do. 4 4 = 10 20 2” 10 [BIBLE ss | | SN. co awcncctndstateshewrenpanad = actsSecccevecntsvosbocdigesocs 1 a eee ee 2 SS EES Scccue cs cdbieseseandshecad aa ah ieee i aie 12g do. 25 Rg i ee i ee 75 ak’ oO) ccwcbucbandsdsWerbebinee 1 10 de, j§§ ceehedhWeri, avendietecte 1 100 ; Oe 0S We ec can de 75 yee ey Pry ye 3b oe, |. chvcnisetpendideetteaee Gt. tasl | At an Annual Meeting of the Association, the 14th Article of the Constitution was altered, so as to read as fol- lows, viz: Articte 14.—The Annual Meeting of the Association, shall be held in Philadelphia, on the evening of the Seventh-day pre- ceding the third Second-day in the Fourth month; at which time the officers shall be appointed. 13 Summary of Receipts and Payments, referred to in the Annual Report, taken from the Treasurer’s Account. PAYMENTS. Agent’s salary, five quarters, ©. ; . $500 01 Printing Annual Report, &c. . ; ; 25 56 Do. Bibles and Testaments, . : 342 86 Binding do. Ges 3 . 955 16 Paper, ; ; ; ; . 1327 91 Packing boxes, : : c oe 20 94 Incidental expenses, . ; ‘ : 57 05 Carpenters’ work, X : 32 90 Account books, 2 7 : ; 11 20 —$ 3273 59 _ Balance due to Treasurer per account settled, Fourth month 10th, 1848, . : 55 09 Balance due Association, Fourth mo, ath, 1849, 211 16 $3539 84 RECEIPTS. Interest on Lehigh Loan, : 71 44 Auxiliary Associations, ; . . 571 59 Rents of Depository, . ; 1295 00 Less taxes, water-rent, and glazing 187 74 —___ 1107 26 Sales of Bibles and Testaments, : ; 1631 55 Annual subscriptions, , . d 57 00 Legacy of Elizabeth White, . 5 101 00 $3539 84 eR ee Stock of Books on hand Fourth month Ist, 1849. BOUND. 650 Reference Bibles, 8vo. 250 School “ 24mo. 297 Testaments, 12mo, 802 “ 24mo., 98 Testaments and Psalms, 12me. 14 IN SHERTS. 1000 Reference Bibles, Svo. 41 School ss 8vo. 250 « “ 24mo, 507 Testaments, 12mo. 1430 6 24mo. 359 Testaments and Psalms, 12mo. QUERIES ADDRESSED TO AUXILIARIES. 1. What number of families or individuals have been gratu- itously furnished with the Holy Scriptures by the Association, during the past year? 2. What number of Bibles and Testaments have been sold by the Association, within the past year? 3. How many members, male and female, are there belong- ing to the Association: and what number of families of Friends reside within its limits? 4, Are there any families of Friends within your limits not supplied with the Holy Scriptures; and if so, how many? 5. How many members of our Society, capable of reading the Bible, do not own a complete copy of the Holy Scriptures? 6. How many Bibles or Testaments may probably be dis- posed of by sale within your limits? 7. Is the income of the Auxiliary sufficient to supply those within its limits who are not duly furnished with the Holy Scriptures ? 8. What number of Bibles and Testaments would it be ne- cessary for the Bible Association to furnish gratuitously to ena- ble the Auxiliary to supply each family? 9. What number would be necessary to furnish each member of our religious Society, capable of reading, who is destitute of a copy, and unable to purchase it? 10. What is the number of each kind of Bibles and Testa- ments now on hand? :” : 15 Rules for the government of the Auxiliary Associations. The objects and Constitution of the Bible Association of Friends in America, having the approbation of this meeting, it is agreed, that a Society be now formed under the following rules, to be called the « Auxiliary Bible Association of Friends,” for the purpose of supplying Friends and others, in this vicinity, with the Holy Scriptures, encouraging the frequent and serious perusal of them, and promoting a more accurate knowledge of their invaluable contents; also, of co-operating with the Bible Association of Friends in America, in furthering their important objects in other places. RULES. | Ist. Any person paying to the Treasurer dollars at one . . time, or dollars annually, and being a member of the re- ligious Society of Friends, shall be a member of this Associa- tion. 2nd. Any member of the Bible Association of Friends in America, residing in this district, shall be considered a member of this Auxiliary Association. 3rd. The officers of this. Association shall be a Secretary, Treasurer, and a Committee of Correspondence. 4th. The Committee of Correspondence shall consist of the Secretary, Treasurer, and members to be chosen annu- ally: they shall have the power of filling vacancies in their own body, and shall be authorized to act on behalf of the Association, during its recess: they shall meet monthly, and keep fair minutes of all their proceedings, which, with the cor- respondence, shall be laid before the Association at its Quarterly meetings. members shall form a quorum. 5th. The Association shall meet once in three months, on the day of . At the first Quarterly Meeting in each year, a statement of the accounts, and of the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed, and on hand, shall be exhibited ; the several officers appointed; and a detailed report of the pro- ceedings during the preceding year, be prepared and forwarded to the Secretary of the Bible Association of Friends in Ame- 16 rica; to attend the annual meeting of which, delegates may be appointed. 6th. The amount of subscriptions and donations to this Asso- ciation, after deducting the necessary expenses, shall be remit- ted annually to the Treasurer of the Bible Association of Friends in America, in consideration of the provision made in the tenth article of its Constitution, viz: “ The full amount paid by Aux- iliary Societies to the Treasurer of this Association, shall be returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in Bibles or Testaments at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the Managers; but all sums not so demanded, shall remain at the disposal of this Associa- tion, to aid in promoting its general objects.” 7th. Every subscriber to this Association shall be entitled to a return of one-half of the amount of his life or annual sub- scription, in Bibles or Testaments at cost, under such regula- tions as may be hereafter adopted. 8th. The members of the Association shall appoint commit- tees, whose duty it shall be to solicit subscriptions in their re- spective neighbourhoods, and to inquire what families, individu- als or schools, are in want of Bibles or Testaments, and make report thereof to the Association or the Committee of Corres- pondence, in order that they may be promptly supplied, either at prime cost or otherwise, according to circumstances. 9th. A list of such committees shall be kept by the Secre- tary; and at every Quarterly Meeting, each committee shall be called upon to report the state of its neighbourhood; the amount of moneys collected, and the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed or required. 10th. Any member ceasing to be a member of the religious Society of Friends, shall cease to be a member of this Associ- ation. | 17 AUXILIARY SOCIETIES. Vassalborough, Maine, Auxiliary Bible Association. New York, New York, do. Scipio, do. do. Farmington, do. do. Cornwall, do. do. Duanesburg, do. do. Purchase, do. do. Saratoga, do. do. Ferrisburg, Vermont, do. Yonge Street, Upper Canada, do. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, do. Bucks, do. do. Red Stone, do. do. Burlington, New Jersey, do. Salem, do. do. Haddonfield, do. do. Upper Quarterly Meeting, Va., _— do. New Garden, N. C., do. Deep River, do. do. Southern, do. do. Eastern, do. do. Stillwater, Ohio, do. Miami, do. do. Salem, do. do. Alum Creek, do. do. Centre, do. do. Flushing, do. do. Fairfield, do. do. New Garden, Indiana, do. New Garden, Central, do. do. Blue River, do. do. White Water, do. do. White Lick, do. do. Westfield, do. do. Springfield, do. do. Western, do. do. Spiceland, do. do. Hamilton, do. do. Salem, [owa, do. Adrian, Michigan, do —<_tCo— FORMS OF LEGACY. 1. Form of a Bequest of Personal Estate. “T give and bequeath to A. B. and A. C. and the survivor of them, and the executors and administrators of such survivor, the sum of in trust for the use of an Institution in Philadelphia, 3 18 known by the name of ‘The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and to be paid by the said Trustees to the Treasurer for the time being of the said Institution.” 2. Form of a Devise of Real Estate. «“] give and devise to A. B. and C, D. and their heirs, all that (here describe the property) together with the appurtenances, to hold to them, the said A. B. and C. D. and the survivor of them, and the heirs of such survivors for ever; in trust nevertheless for the sole use and benefit of an Institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘ The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and upon this further trust, absolutely to dispose of, and convey the same, either in fee, or for such other estate, and in such way and manner, as the members of the said Association shall, at any meeting or meetings, order, di- rect, and appoint. The Depository of the Bible Association is at No. 50 North Fourth street, a few doors above Arch street. Communications respecting the business of the office may be addressed to John Richardson, Agent. | BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. DEPOSITORY No. 50 NORTH FOURTH STREET, UP STAIRS, PHILA. PRICES OF BIBLES AND TESTAMENTS. | # a eae PS ith Fam. Reference Bible | eee eee Super,| 8vo. do. ewww woa | KES euesae RASARSSSEsess oe £2WwWH DOK wo & oo RUSSAURSSSSSURKKAKASS 8 ee oe w oa oo aSst o-------— ee en ee reer orr THE TWENTY-FIRST ANNUAL REPORT BIBLE ASSOCIATION Or FRIENDS IN AMERICA: READ AT THE ANNUAL MEETING HELD ON THE EVENING OF THE THIRTEENTH OF FOURTH MONTH, 1850. PHILADELPHIA: PRINTED BY JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, APPLE-TREE ALLEY, FIRST DOOR ABOVE FOURTH S&T. 1850. OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION. CHARLES ELLIS, Secretary. BENJAMIN H. WARDER, Treasurer. CORRESPONDING MEMBERS, THOMAS KIMBER, CHARLES YARNALL, SAMUEL BETTLE, Jr. MANAGERS. GEORGE WILLIAMS, THEOPHILUS E. BEESLEY, JEREMIAH HACKER, HORATIO C. WOOD, JOHN ELLIOTT, WILLIAM BETTLE, * JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, ROBERT SMITH, JOHN CARTER, DANIEL B. SMITH, TOWNSEND SHARPLESS, CHARLES WILLIAMS, GEORGE G. WILLIAMS, URIAH HUNT. JOHN LIPPINCOTT, TO THE - BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. Tue Managers Report that they have sold and dis- tributed during the year, ending Third month 31st, 1850, Bibles and Testaments as follows: viz. They have sold. 246 Bibles, 62 Testaments, and 23 Testaments and Psalms to Auxiliary Associations; 261 Bibles, 329 Tes- taments, and 20 Testaments and Psalms to Booksellers and others; and 994 Bibles to the American and Foreign Bible Society in New York. They have furnished to Auxiliary Associations for gratuitous distribution, or for sale, 1031 Bibles, 935 Testaments, and 30 Testaments and Psalms; the Committee on gratuitous distribution has disposed of 53 Bibles, and 249 'Testa- ments; making altogether 2585 Bibles, 1575 Testa- ments, and 73 Testaments and Psalms, which have been sold and distributed during the year. An edition of one thousand copies of the School Bible, referred to in the last Annual Report as being in press, has since been completed ; 1000 thewsand copies of the Reference Bible have been printed, and editions of the 24mo. Bible, and 12mo. Testament are in press. Since the establishment of the Association, 22,350 copies of the Reference Bible have been printed; and as the stereotype plates have several times had to be repaired, the expediency of providing the means for 6 their renewal has frequently claimed the attention of the Managers. For this purpose they have agreed to invest in good security $250 per annum, to constitute, with the interest accruing from the same, a fund for the purchase of new plates. It is believed that the set now on hand will last for several years, and that before they shall become unfit for use, the fund now begun will be ade- quate to purchase a new set. Reports have been received from 17 Auxiliary Associa- tions: viz. from Philadelphia, from Vassalborough, Me. ; Alum Creek, Flushing and Fairfield, Ohio; Eastern, N.C. Blue River, Spiceland, New Garden Central, White-wa- ter, Whitelick, Westfield, Western, Hamilton, Northern, and Honey Creek, Indiana; and from Salem in Iowa. Two new Auxiliaries have been formed, viz. Honey Creek Auxiliary, Howard Co., and the Northern Aux- iliary, Grant Co., both in Indiana. Reports have also come to hand from individuals residing in neighbour- hoods where there are no auxiliaries, to whom supplies of Bibles and Testaments had been sent for sale or dis- tribution. The building owned by the Association has under- gone some necessary repairs, and been painted during the present season. The subscription suggested in our last Annual Report, for procuring the means of purchasing a set of stereo- type plates for a new duodecimo Bible, has not yet been undertaken by the Managers. Although we cannot expect any great things in the humble field of labour which we occupy, and in some of the Auxiliaries much apathy appears to prevail, it is ~ i encouraging to receive from other quarters, particularly in the far West, where the need is greatest, and the spread of Friends most rapid, evidences of the continued usefulness of our institution. The Reports of Auxiliaries to the Parent Association, which are herewith submitted, manifest how important is the assistance they afford us, and how gratefully the aid we furnish them is received. Signed on behalf and by direction of the Board of Managers. WILLIAM BETTLE, Secretary. Philadelphia, Fourth mo. 11th, 1850. Summary of the Treasurer’s Account. PAYMENTS. Agent’ssalary, . . . ‘ ° - $400 00 Printing, . ‘ ‘ , : ‘ ‘ 320 79 Binding, . . . . . : ; 794 15 Paper, ' ; ; ; : : ‘ 870 96 Incidental expenses, . 68 64 Repairs of Depository Building, water-rent, be. 161 82 Investment in Lehigh Mortgage Loan, ‘ 250 00 $2866 36 Balance due the Association, Fourth mo. 8th, 1850, 388 38 3254 74 RECEIPTS. Balance of Account settled, Fourth mo. 7th, 1849. $211 16 Sales of Bibles and Testaments, . : . 1467 28 From Auxiliary Associations, . , ‘ 342 53 Annual Subscriptions, . ; ; ; 51 00 Rents of Depository Building, $ 1345, less taxes, $162 23, . 1182 77 - $ 3254 74 Stock of Books on hand Fourth month Ist, 1850. BOUND. 672 Reference Bibles, 8vo. 519 School “ 24mo. 477 Testaments 12mo. 709 6 24mo. 134 Testaments and Psalms, 12mo. IN SHEETS. 342 Reference Bibles, 8vo. 41 School “ 8vo. 7 « « 24mo. 537 Testaments, 24mo. -” Extracts from Reports of Auxiliary Associations. “ Again we present to you an Annual Report, of our feeble endeavours to give circulation to the inspired volume. By the accounts received from committees appointed by this Auxiliary, to inspect the condition of Friends relative to being supplied with suitable copies of the Holy Scriptures, it appears that in some places they have been diligently engaged in the perform- ance of this most interesting duty, and from the accounts received we are renewedly encouraged to believe, that the cause is still advancing within our borders. Our rapidly in- creasing settlements require constant and diligent inspection, and the responsibility and labour in managing the concern, increase in the same ratio—and rest with increasing weight on those who have the subject at heart. We have now within the verge of our Quarterly Meeting, about 350 families of Friends, embracing about three thousand members, and, as we have already informed you, their scattered condition renders it very difficult for us to give explicit answers to all the queries. Yet notwithstanding the many difficulties to be encountered, we are not without the hope, that by the means of the very liberal dona- tions received from you, and the persevering labours of this Auxiliary, all the members of our Quarterly Meeting who are capable of reading, will eventually be furnished with good and substantial copies of the Bible. We do not aim at great things, 9 but have endeavoured, as ability was afforded, to do whatsoever our hands find to do, trusting that He whose cause we have _ endeavoured to support, will bless our feeble efforts. « We trust, we are very far from wishing to arrogate to this Auxiliary any merit which is not its just due; yet when we view its operations thus far, and the success which has attended them, we cannot but believe that a blessing is designed for it, and that its labours have been essentially useful within the lim- ited sphere of its operations. It is peculiarly gratifying to observe, that so large a number of our young people evince an interest in the concern, and are turning their attention to the subject with an earnestness and zeal which promise the happiest results. And our anxious desire now is, that the benefits to be derived from this organization may be extended to our brethren of the whole Quarterly Meeting. And should the perusal of these sacred writings, which we have distributed, be instrumental in cheering and encouraging one weary pilgrim in his journey to that rest, which is prepared for the people of God—or to stir up the “ pure mind” in any “ by way of remembrance,” or to induce one wanderer from the fold to return, repent and live, we should feel that the little which we have been enabled to do, has not been in vain.” “We have held our sixth Annual Meeting, and may in the first place, as an Auxiliary, acknowledge the reception of a box of Bibles and Testaments, received last sixth month; which the managers of our Auxiliary have endeavoured to distribute to those capable of reading, who were unsupplied within our limits ; and we have the satisfaction of informing you, they were gene- rally well received. And we indulge the hope, that the very liberal amount furnished by you, for gratuitous distribution, may prove lastingly beneficial to many of our members, if it should be the means of exciting some to the more frequent and serious perusal of them—one of the primary objects in view, in the formation of the Parent Association. “ We have gratuitously distributed since the formation of our 2 ae aie 10 auxiliary 170 Bibles, and 240 Testaments, besides many others, for which we received only a small part of the card prices; and we think there are probably about 75 capable of reading the Holy Scriptures unsupplied, mostly the children of parents able to supply their beloved offspring.” “ We would, before answering the queries, acknowledge thank- fully, the receipt a short time since of a box of Bibles and Tes- taments, and 10 copies of the Testament and Psalms, a dona- tion from the Parent Association, shipped last Sixth month by the agent. We most sincerely acknowledge the kindness of the managers in this act of generosity, additional to many previous ones of the same liberal character—and we must acknowledge too, and thank them also, not only on behalf of our Auxiliary, but for those who through us are made the recipients of their bounty, but may never have the opportunity in any other way to express their gratitude.” “In endeavouring to make this our first Annual Report, we cannot but express our most grateful feelings for the very liberal donation made to us. We have an extensive field of labour open before us. Situated as we are, in a newly settled portion of the country, most of us with young and rising families, we very plainly see the necessity of some plan to furnish all our members, capable of reading, with complete copies of the Holy Scriptures. This plan, we think, can be better carried out by means of Auxiliaries, than in any other way. And though great the labour before us may be, yet we hope by strictly attending to the great cause in which we have embarked, not only to fur- nish every family of Friends with a copy of the Holy Scriptures, but each member within our limits capable of reading the Holy Scriptures, with a copy thereof.” “ We desire again to express our grateful acknowledgment to the Parent Association, for the very liberal donations which we have at different times received, and the satisfaction we have had in placing the Holy Scriptures in the reach of so many of our members.” 1] “ The donation of [Bibles and Testaments] has been very acceptable; we have thereby been enabled to supply a consid- erable number of Friends with a copy of the Holy Scriptures, gratuitously, or at reduced prices, who were not well able to pay the full price.” «Tt is encouraging to know, by reports from our distributing committee, that in most cases the [Bible or Testament] gift has been thankfully received, and its value appreciated. “It may be matter of surprise to you, that after distributing the number of books reported, we should have to report even a greater number of individuals unfurnished, than we did last year. It may be accounted for, partly on account of emigration, partly by imperfect reports caused by the great extent of our limits, but mostly by the increase of such cases by young per- sons growing up in our large number of young families. Causes which, together with others incident to a comparatively new country, will probably produce similar results for many years to come. “ With the hope of being able still further to assist in your benevolent designs, we remain your friends.” ~~ «“ The Auxiliary Bible Association of ——-———— Quarterly Meeting, in presenting their Annual Report, have to regret that the amount of labour performed, should have been so limited in comparison with the importance of the work in which they have been engaged; and believing that if the value of the Holy Serip- tures, “in making wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus,” were kept more in view, we should one and all be willing to assist with more assiduity in seeking out those among our fellow men who are not in possession of the Sacred Volume, and thus afford them the opportunity of becoming ac- quainted with its valuable contents. As regards the members of our religious Society, the work of this Association is dimin- ishing within the limits of this Quarterly Meeting, as will be seen by the small number of copies furnished to Friends. Yet PAL PDLD PLL LAL PLL 12 the field of labour open before us among others is very exten- sive, and we entertain the hope that members will not feel that their task is finished.” QUERIES ADDRESSED TO AUKILIANIS 1. What number of families or individuals have been gratu- itously furnished with the Holy Scriptures by the Association, during the past year? 2. What number of Bibles and Testaments have been sold by the Association, within the past year? 3. How many members, male and female, are there belong- ing to the Association: and what number of families of Friends reside within its limits? 4. Are there any families of Friends within your limits not supplied with the Holy Scriptures; and if so, how many? 5. How many members of our Society, capable of reading the Bible, do not own a complete copy ? 6. How many Bibles or Testaments may probably be dis- posed of by sale within your limits? 7. Is the income of the Auxiliary sufficient to supply those within its limits who are not duly furnished with the Holy Scriptures ? 8. What number of Bibles and Testaments would it be ne- cessary for the Bible Association to furnish gratuitously to ena- ble the Auxiliary to supply each family? 9. What number would be necessary to furnish each member of our religious Society, capable of reading, who is destitute of a copy, and unable to purchase it? 10*. What is the number of each kind of Bibles and Testa- ments now on hand? Rules for the government of the Auziliary Associations. The objects and Constitution of the Bible Association of Friends in America, having the approbation of this meeting, it is agreed, that a Society be now formed under the following — * A full and explicit answer to this, with the other Queries, is particularly requested. 13 rules, to be called the “ Auxiliary Bible Association of Friends,” for the purpose of supplying Friends and others, in this vicinity, with the Holy Scriptures, encouraging the frequent and serious perusal of them, and promoting a more accurate knowledge of their invaluable contents; also, of co-operating with the Bible Association of Friends in America, in furthering their important objects in other places. RULES. Ist. Any person paying to the Treasurer dollars at one time, or dollars annually, and being a member of the re- ligious Society of Friends, shall be a member of this Associa- tion. 2nd. Any member of the Bible Association of Friends in America, residing in this district, shall be considered a member of this Auxiliary Association. 3rd. The officers of this Association shall be a Secretary, Treasurer, and a Committee of Correspondence. 4th. The Committee of Correspondence shall consist of the Secretary, Treasurer, and members to be chosen annu- ally: they shall have the power of filling vacancies in their own body, and shall be authorized to act on behalf of the Association, during its recess: they shall meet monthly, and keep fair minutes of all their proceedings, which, with the cor- respondence, shall be laid before the Association at its Quarterly meetings. members shall form a quorum. 5th. The Association shall meet once in three months, on the day of _. At the first Quarterly Meeting in each year, a statement of the accounts, and of the number of Bibles - and Testaments distributed, and on hand, shall be exhibited ; the several officers appointed; and a detailed report of the pro- ceedings during the preceding year, be prepared and forwarded to the Secretary of the Bible Association of Friends in Ame- rica; to attend the annual meeting of which, delegates may be appointed. 6th. The amount of subscriptions and donations to this Asso- ciation, after deducting the necessary expenses, shal] be remit- 14 ted annually to the Treasurer of the Bible Association of Friends in America, in consideration of the provision made in the tenth article of its Constitution, viz: “ The full amount paid by Aux- iliary Societies to the Treasurer of this Association, shall be returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in Bibles or Testaments at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the Managers; but all sums not so demanded, shall remain at the disposal of this Associa- tion, to aid in promoting its genera] objects.” 7th. Every subscriber to this Association shall be entitled to a return of one-half of the amount of his life or annual sub- scription, in Bibles or Testaments at cost, under such regula- tions as may be hereafter adopted. 8th. The members of the Association shall appoint commit- tees, whose duty it shall be to solicit subscriptions in their re- spective neighbourhoods, and to inquire what families, individu- als or schools, are in want of Bibles or Testaments, and make report thereof to the Association or the Committee of Corres- pondence, in order that they may be promptly supplied, either at prime cost or otherwise, according to circumstances. 9th. A list of such committees shall be kept by the Secre- tary; and at every Quarterly Meeting, each committee shall be called upon to report the state of its neighbourhood; the amount of moneys collected, and the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed or required. 10th. Any member ceasing to be a member of the religious Society of Friends, shall cease to be a member of this Associ- ation. (> The Annual Meeting of the Association, shall be held in Philadelphia, on the evening of the Seventh-day preceding the third Second-day in the Fourth month; at which time the officers shall be appointed.—Constitution, Article 14th. 15 AUXILIARY SOCIETIES. Vassalborough, Maine, Auxiliary Bible Association. New York, New York, do. Scipio, do. do. Farmington, do. do. Cornwall, do. do. Duanesburg, do. do. Purchase, do. do. Saratoga, do. do. Ferrisburg, Vermont, do. Yonge Street, Upper Canada, do. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, do. Bucks, do. do. Red Stone, do. do. Burlington, New Jersey, do. Salem, do. do. Haddonfield, do. do. Upper Quarterly Meeting, Va., — do. New Garden, N. C., do. Deep River, do. do. Southern, do. do. Eastern, do. do. Stillwater, Ohio, do. Miami, do. do. Salem, do. do. ~ Alum Creek, do. do. Centre, do. do. Flushing, do. do. Fairfield, do. do. New Garden, Indiana, do. : New Garden, Central, do. do. Blue River, do. do. White Water, do. do, White Lick, do. do. Westfield, do. do. Springfield, do. do. Western, do. do. Spiceland, do. do. Hamilton, do. do. Northern, do. do. Salem, lowa, do. Adrian, Michigan, do — oto FORMS OF LEGACY. 1. Form of a Bequest of Personal Estate. «‘T give and bequeath to A. B. and A. C. and the survivor of them, and the executors and administrators of such survivor, the sum of in trust for the use of an Institution in Philadelphia, 16 known by the name of ‘The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and to be paid by the said Trustees to the Treasurer for the time being of the said Institution.” 2. Form of a Devise of Real Estate. «“] give and devise to A. B. and C, D. and their heirs, all that (here describe the property) together with the appurtenances, to hold to them, the said A. B. and C, D. and the survivor of them, and the heirs of such survivors for ever; in trust nevertheless for the sole use and benefit of an Institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘ The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and upon this further trust, absolutely to dispose of, and convey the same, either in fee, or for such other estate, and in such way and manner, as the members of the said Association shall, at any meeting or meetings, order, di- rect, and appoint.” The Depository of the Bible Association is at No. 50 North Fourth street, a few doors above Arch street. Communications respecting the business of the office may be addressed to John Richardson, Agent. eo * | BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. | DEPOSITORY No. 50 NORTH FOURTH STREET, UP STAIRS, PHILA. PRICES OF BIBLES AND TESTAMENTS. Retail Testa- lof Bible-| of Vols. Proce. ment. with Fam. Rec. Reference Bible Index & Concor, } SuPer. Bvo. $500 |g5 00 do. do. do. | do. 60 | 60 do. do. do, | do. 350 | 350 do. do. Fine | do. 1” 175 du. do. do. do. 200 |225 do. do. do. do. 250 275 do. do. do. do. 20 | 225 do. do. do. | do. 30 | 33 do. do, do. do. 400 4 Schad TED scnccdccsscctctocsccdltitsae 24mo. 65 75 ek 1a Xe cidain teh cbedstikne sebieiediae do. so | 100 Gs “Wiseses ; do, 17 | 20 an. 'F Seeee .| do, 23 |25 Wau Testes oocces cc consesccccedioces do. 10 Ga.” ~ Voobueetdas cbhaensoeieua do. 124 do. eee do. os 3 25 do. eee wee do. = is S do, 7 ad * do. . do. ot = 10 00 Gh i(ét eae Eee do, |. form) 75 75 ae, eapbaesanaieeeeeee 12mo. p bound iatp 28 31 do. TP ee ee ee eee eee ee eee eee do. Sheep -.- - rr 44 i Gesienate and Pealme, Tr eee ee eee do. heeeteess = s t bound together...| do. +. e- THE TWENTY-SECOND ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF ~ FRIENDS IN AMERICA: READ AT THE ANNUAL MEETING HELD ON THE EVENING OF THE NINETEENTH OF FOURTH MONTH, 1851. PHILADELPHIA: PRINTED BY JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, APPLE-TREE ALLEY, | FIRST DOOR ABOVE FOURTH 8T. —""> 1851. OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION. JOHN CARTER, Szcrerary. BENJAMIN H. WARDER, Treasurer. CORRESPONDING MEMBERS. THOMAS KIMBER, CHARLES YARNALL, SAMUEL BETTLE, Jr. MANAGERS. JEREMIAH HACKER, HORATIO C. WOOD, JOHN ELLIOTT, WILLIAM BETTLE, JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, | ROBERT SMITH, CHARLES ELLIS, DANIEL B. SMITH, TOWNSEND SHARPLESS, ; CHARLES WILLIAMS, GEORGE G. WILLIAMS, URIAH HUNT, JOHN LIPPINCOTT, JOHN M. WHITALL. THEOPHILUS E. BEESLEY, TO THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. LPP LL LOL LL TE Managers present the following Report of their proceedings, during the past year : There have been issued from the Depository, for the year ending third month 3lst, 1851, 1891 Bibles, 1427 Testaments, and 158 Testaments and Psalms, of which 366 Bibles, 440 Testaments, and 80 Testaments and Psalms were sold to Auxiliary Associations. 815 Bibles, 716 Testaments, and 60 Testaments and Psalms have been furnished to Auxiliaries, to be disposed of by sale or otherwise, at their discretion. Since the establishment of the Association, there have been printed 23,350 copies of the Reference Bible, 12,530 of the 24mo School Bible, 15,196 of the 12mo ‘Testa- ment, and 5768 of the 24mo Testament—making an aggregate of 56,844 volumes. 1000 copies of the Reference Bible have been printed during the year, and an edition of 2000 copies of the 24mo Testament is in press. The editions of the 24mo Bible and 12mo Testament referred to in last Report, have been completed. A summary of the receipts and payments during the year, and a statement of the stock of books on hand on the Ist inst., are herewith submitted. Since last Report, we have received information of the establishment of an Auxiliary in Ohio, under the 6 title of the “ Chesterfield Auxiliary Bible Association of Friends.” The Managers would again invite the atten- tion of Friends throughout our country, to the consider- ation of the importance of promoting an increase in the number of these Associations, upon whose exertions they believe the future usefulness of our Institution will greatly depend. Upon the inquiries made by Auxiliaries, re- specting the situation of Friends within their limits, in regard to a supply of the Holy Scriptures, we must mainly rely for such information as will enable us to make a judicious distribution of the means at our dis- posal. If an Auxiliary was formed within the limits of every Quarterly Meeting on this continent, agreeably to the original design of the founders of this Association, it would greatly facilitate the accomplishment of one of their primary objects, that every member of our Reli- gious Society, capable of reading, might be furnished with a copy of the Sacred Volume. Reports have been received from 21 Auxiliaries, viz. : Alum Creek, Fairfield, Flushing, Short Creek, and Ches- terfield, Ohio; New Garden, White Lick, Honey Creek, Northern, Hamilton, White-water, Blue River, Spring- field, Western, Westfield, and Spiceland, Indiana; Vas- salborough, Maine; Eastern, North Carolina; Philadel- phia, Penna.; Burlington, N. J., and Salem, Iowa. From these Reports it is evident, that although much has been accomplished through their efforts, particularly in remote districts, a wide field for labour still remains, and we would encourage the members of Auxiliary As- sociations to renewed exertions, in the important work in which they are engaged. 7 One Auxiliary states in its Report—< We have an extensive field of labour, and are scattered over a large territory of newly settled country, the most of us with young and rising families, and many of us in limited cir- cumstances; hence we very plainly see the necessity of some plan, to furnish our members with copies of the Holy Scriptures, which we think can be better carried out by means of Auxiliaries, than in any other way. We therefore have endeavoured to concentrate our strength in that way, sincerely hoping, that though feeble our efforts may be, that it may be a means of not only furnishing our members, but also encourage the frequent perusal of these invaluable writings.” Another remarks—“ It affords us much satisfaction, from year to year, to be the almoners of the bounty of the Parent Association; and although it is but little that we seem to do, we feel however that the reward is sure, and that fruit may, in time appear, to the praise of the Author of life and salvation. We feel bound again to express our thankfulness and gratitude to the Managers, not only for ourselves, but on behalf of those whose hearts are made to rejoice by their donations, and whose feelings of gratitude can never otherwise be made known to them for their great liberality and Christian generosity to our Auxiliary.” Another mentions—*“ In making this our Annual Re- port, before proceeding to answer the queries, we desire to express our grateful acknowledgement, for the liberal donations which we have received in Bibles and ‘Testa- ments at different times, which have enabled us to fur- nish quite a number of the poorer class with copies 8 gratuitously, and others that are not well able to pay the full value, at reduced prices; thus, through your kindness, a much greater number of Friends and their descendants have been furnished, than otherwise would have been, with these invaluable writings, and the grate- ful manner in which they are generally received, affords at least a hope, that a blessing awaits our feeble efforts to promote so good a work, and stimulates to further perseverance. It will be seen by our Reports, that much remains to be done before all our beloved young people can be supplied, which we feel to be an object worthy to be kept in view.” : Another Auxiliary, alluding to a number of Bibles and Testaments purchased by them, remarks—* By refer- ence to the above Report, it will be seen, that a very large proportion of the copies distributed, have been among our coloured population, who manifest an in- creasing desire to become possessors of the Holy Scrip- tures. May we not hope that more fruit will yet be manifest among this much injured race.” Another Auxiliary, within whose limits there are about 300 families of Friends, states—* That in forwarding to you an account of our proceedings the past year, we think it right to acknowledge, with feelings of grateful- ness, that it has been through the liberality of the Pa- rent Association, that we have been enabled, since our comparatively recent organization, to furnish many fam- ilies and individuals with good copies of the Holy Scrip- tures. Within the past year, some young families as well as individuals, have been gratuitously furnished with good Reference Bibles, who would otherwise still 9 have remained destitute. 'To others who were not able to pay the full price, they have been sold at reduced prices. We know that our operations since our last Report have not been very large, yet we believe some good has arisen through our feeble efforts to promote the objects of the Association, and we feel encouraged by the lively interest manifested in the concern by many Friends, still to continue our labours, hoping eventually to be able to furnish each destitute member within our limits, with a complete copy of the Holy Scriptures.” Another mentions—“In endeavouring to make this our Second Annual Report, it is with renewed feelings of thankfulness, that we desire again to express our grateful acknowledgments to the Parent Association, for their very liberal donations to us, the last of which has just come to hand, and which will enable us to place the Holy Scriptures within the reach of many of our members, who are destitute of copies of the Sacred Volume. It is our sincere desire and endeavour to use the means thus placed in our power, to the best advan- tage, and as ability is afforded, do what we find to do, trusting our cause to Him who alone is able to direct and bless our feeble efforts. We have made a small donation of Testaments, to a settlement of coloured people in our vicinity, who are in destitute circum- stances, and who, we are led to believe, appreciated the donation in that spirit of love and precious feeling of gratitude, which should characterize us all as Chris- tians. We have endeavoured to answer the queries as well as we could, yet it has been somewhat difficult, con- sidering the scattered situation of the members of our 9 ~ 10 Monthly Meeting, which is fast increasing, and which will consequently increase the labour of the Auxiliary in the same ratio. Yet we hope our vigour in the good cause we have espoused, will not relax, until each mem- ber within our borders, capable of reading, is furnished with a suitable copy of the Holy Scriptures.” Another states—‘ You will perceive by our answers to the queries, that we are still making some efforts to furnish the destitute with copies of the Holy Scriptures, agreeably to the benevolent designs of the Parent Asso- ciation. It may be a matter of surprise to you, that we have, for a number of years past, reported so large a number of individuals unfurnished with the Bible. It is accounted for mostly, by young persons in our large number of families, (about 460) becoming capable of reading. We feel encouraged to continue, with your kind assistance, our care in furnishing them.” Another Auxiliary mentions—“ In making up our An- nual Report at this time, we feel under more than ordi- nary obligations to the Parent Association. Your very liberal donation of Bibles and Testaments furnished to this Auxiliary about one year ago, was received in due time and in good order. Nearly all of them have been disposed of either at very reduced prices or gratuitously. We have heretofore endeavoured to explain to you some of the difficulties which we have to encounter, in giving explicit answers to the queries, and therefore we shall not particularize at this time. Owing to our peculiar circumstances in this western land, we feel it to be a duty thus gratuitously to distribute a portion of the Bibles and Testaments you have so liberally bestowed 11 upon us, thereby to minister to the necessities of our brethren of the same faith, to strengthen each other in good works, by endeavouring to place within the reach of all, that Book, which the united testimony of the best and wisest men, has pronounced to be the greatest of outward blessings. We feel that the spirit of Christian benevolence is a motive to action, which should never rest satisfied, while a fellow creature appeals to it for sympathy. And as we have been reminded by you, that the blessings of Divine Providence are to be considered as gifts in trust for the needy and afilicted, we have en- deavoured, in our humble way, to act upon that prin- ciple. But while we have had an eye to such in our own Society, who are in destitute or limited circum- stances, we have also as heretofore as occasion offered, handed a Bible to some who are not in immediate con- nection with us as a Religious Society. In conclusion, may the Holy Spirit shed its influence upon your labours, and upon the labours of all who are engaged in this great work.” Another states—‘“‘ We hereby endeavour to forward to you our Annual Account of the Association, which falls below, we have no doubt, that of the labours of similar associations. Yet we feel encouraged to perse- vere in this most worthy of benevolent Institutions, when we consider how many individuals and some families, have been furnished with copies of these inestimable writings, the Holy Scriptures, who, in all probability, would have remained destitute thereof, if they had not been thus seasonably supplied, by the kind donations of the Parent Association, which have enabled us to fur- 12 nish, gratuitously, many deserving young persons with copies of the Holy Bible, which, in many instances, have been received with thankfulness.” Another Auxiliary, after mentioning that within their limits there are 16 families of Friends not supplied with a single copy of the Holy Scriptures, further states— “In endeavouring to make our first Report, to the An- nual Meeting of the Parent Association, we have to re- gret the deficiencies apparent among us, in regard to a supply of the Holy Scriptures, as well as the small num- ber of Friends, who appear ready to engage in the cause of endeavouring to supply those deficiencies. Although so little has yet been done, we hope that when we shall have received the liberal supply of Bibles and ‘Testa- ments, so kindly offered by the Managers, to be fur- nished to this Auxiliary, with the efforts we may be en- abled to make, in forwarding the great cause in which we have embarked, that many of the deficiencies now apparent, in regard to a supply of the Holy Scriptures among us, may soon be removed, and that more of our friends may see the necessity of becoming members of the Association, as a means of more readily furnishing every family and every member of our Religious So- ciety, capable of reading, with a copy of the Bible.” As many of our Auxiliaries have not forwarded Re- ports, we have no information as to the condition of Friends within their limits, in regard to a supply of the Holy Scriptures, and are therefore unable to judge what number of Bibles and Testaments may be needed for distribution among them. As the Managers are de- sirous of making as large an appropriation of the Scrip- 13 tures annually among the Auxiliaries, as the means at their disposal will warrant, we would again request that all of them would forward their Annual Reports, in time to reach Philadelphia by the 1st of the fourth month. A further investment of $269 70, has been made on account of the fund, for the purchase of new stereotype plates, alluded to in the last Report. The amount now invested is $519 70. | ‘Soon after our appointment, in the fourth month last, we were deprived, by death, of the services of our valued friend, George Williams, who, for about twenty years, had been a Manager of this Association, and taken a lively interest in the circulation of the Holy Scriptures. By a communication received from the Acting Execu- tor of his Estate, we are informed that he has be- queathed to the Association the sum of one thousand dollars. In taking a view of the important results, which, un- der the Divine blessing, have arisen from the circulation of the Sacred Volume, the Managers feel an earnest de- sire that a measure of that lively zeal, which character- ized the efforts of the founders of this Association, many of whom are now gathered to their everlasting rest, may continue to animate those who succeed them in the pros- ecution of its concerns. When we consider the import- ance of the work in which we are engaged, aflecting as it does the highest interests of the human race, and re- flect that those of our fellow creatures who have not yet been blessed with the possession of the Holy Scriptures, appear to have made little advancement in the cause of true religion and morality, we cannot but believe it to 14 be a Christian duty, to make some sacrifice of time and means in promoting the dissemination of these precious records, which are declared to be “able to make wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus, being given by inspiration of God, and profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” Signed on behalf and by direction of the Board of Managers. WILLIAM BETTLE, Secretary. Philadelphia, Fourth mo. 17th, 1851. Summary of the Treasurer’s Account. PAYMENTS. Agent’s salary, . . : ; ; : - $400 00 Printing Bibles and Tenement ; > ln eopeapaibeieeree 823 17 Binding, “ 6s : , . : e 454 04 Paper for “ ; ; : : : 652 08 Incidental expenses, . . ; 65 42 Repairs of Depository Building, water-rent, tat ; ° 92 85 Investment on account of fund, for purchase 269 70 of new Stereotype Plates, 2287 26 Balance on hand Fourth mo. 5th, 1851, ; ; é 168 39 $2455 65 15 RECEIPTS. Balance on hand, Fourth mo. 8th, 1850, : ; . $388 3s Sales of Bibles and Testaments, to Auxiliaries, Booksellers and others, a Donation Account, Reimbursed and Paper Account, . 34 26 Annual Subscriptions, . d . : d ‘ 45 00 Rents of Depository Building, $ 1345, less taxes, $167 48, . : . 117T Interest on Lehigh Mortgage Loan, . . a ae 19 70 $ 2455 65 STOCK OF BOOKS ON HAND, FOURTH MONTH Ist, 1851. BOUND. 387 Reference Bibles, 8vo. 232 School 6 24mo. £82 Testaments 12mo. 102 a6 24mo. 71 Testaments and Psalms, 12mo. IN SHEETS. 1041 Reference Bibles, 8vo. 501 School és 24mo. 257 Testaments, 12mo. 100 6 24mo. 150 Testaments and Psalms, 12mo. 16 CONSTITUTION ‘ or THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. ‘ ARTICLE I. Tue designation of this Society, shall be “ The Bible Association of Friends in America.” ARTICLE Il. The objects of this Association shall be, to encourage a wider circu- lation, as well as a more frequent and serious perusal of the Holy Scrip- tures, and to promote a more accurate knowledge of their invaluable contents. ARTICLE Il. The attention of this Association, shall be first directed to furnishing the Bible to such members of the Religious Society of Friends, as may not be duly supplied; and also, as its funds will permit, to other persons. ARTICLE Iv. Any person paying to the Treasurer of this Institution, Twenty-five dollars at one time, or three dollars annually, and being a member of the Religious Society of Friends, shall be a member of this Association. ARTICLE V. The Officers of this Association, shall be, a Secretary, a Treasurer, a Committee of Correspondence, and a Board of Managers. ARTICLE VI. The Association shall appoint annually, fifteen of its members as Managers, to conduct its business. ‘They shall be entrusted with the 17 printing and distribution of the Holy Scriptures, in such manner, and at such prices, as they may judge proper, consistent with the objects of this Association. They shall have the power of filling such vacancies in the list of Officers, or of the Managers, as may occur in the recess of the Association ; and the Minutes of their proceedings shall be laid before the Association, at its Annual Meetings. ARTICLE VII. A Committee of three persons shall be appointed annually, to corre- spond with Societies or individuals, on behalf of this Association, under the direction of the Managers, to whom the correspondence shall be submitted, at their Stated Meetings. ARTICLE VIII, It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to receive and keep in trust, all monies and title deeds, and papers relating to the real estate of the Association ; he shall pay all orders drawn by it on the Board of Man- agers ; shall make a quarterly statement of his accounts to the latter ; and he shall also make an Annual Report to them at their Meeting in the fourth month, of his receipts and payments during the past year; which report shall be submitted, after due examination, to the Annual Meeting of the Association. He shall deposit all monies received by him, on account of the Association, in its name, in one of the Banks in the City of Philadelphia, and pay all orders by checks; and he shall keep the accounts in a separate book, provided for the purpose. ARTICLE IX, All the Officers of the Association shall be ex-officio members of the Board of Managers ; and seven members shall constitute a quorum, ARTICLE X. Each member of the Association shall be entitled to a return of one- half of his life or annual subscription, in Bibles or ‘Testaments, at the Society’s lowest prices, at any time during the year in which the sub- scription is made, under such regulations as the Managers may estab- lish. 3 18 ARTICLE XI, Such members of the Religious Society of Friends, as may form themselves into Bible Associations, under the rules recommended by this Association, shall be considered as Auxiliaries, and entitled to privileges hereinafter provided. ARTICLE XII, The full amount paid by Auxiliary Societies to the Treasurer of this Association, shall be returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in Bibles and Testaments, at the lowest prices, subject to the reg- ulations which may be established by the Managers; but all sums not so demanded, shall remain at the disposal of this Association, to aid in promoting its general objects. Auxiliary Societies complying with these regulations, shall be entitled to send delegates to attend the An- nual Meetings of the Bible Association, ARTICLE XIIL. Every petson paying to the Treasurer of an Auxiliary Society, the sum of Twenty-five dollars at ove time, or three dollars annually, and being a member of the Religious Society of Friends, shall, on produc- ing a receipt for such payment, be entitled to the privileges of member- ship in this Association. ARTICLE XIV, The Annual Meetings of the Association shall be held in Philadel- phia, on the evening of the seventh-day preceding the third second-day in the fourth month, at which time the Officers shall be appointed. ARTICLE XV, No alteration shall be made in this Constitution, but at an Annual Meeting, and with the consent of two-thirds of the members present. ARTICLE XVI, Any member of this Association, ceasing to be a member of the Religious Society of Friends, shall cease to be a member of this Asso- ciation. edt 19 Rules for the government of the Auxiliary Associations. The objects and Constitution of the Bible Association of Friends in America, having the approbation of this meeting, it is agreed, that a Society be now formed under the following rules, to be called the “ Auxiliary Bible Association of Friends,” for the purpose of supplying Friends and others, in this vicinity, with the Holy Scriptures, encouraging the frequent and serious perusal of them, and promoting a more accurate knowledge of their invaluable contents; also, of co-operating with the Bible Association of Friends in America, in furthering their important objects in other places. RULES. Ist. Any person paying to the Treasurer dollars at one time, or dollars annually, and being a member of the re- ligious Society of Friends, shall be a member of this Associa- tion. 2nd. Any member of the Bible Association of Friends in America, residing in this district, shall be considered a member of this Auxiliary Association. 3rd. The officers of this Association shall be a Secretary, Treasurer, and a Committee of Correspondence. 4th. The Committee of Correspondence shall consist of the Secretary, Treasurer, and members, to be chosen annu- ally: they shall have the power of filling vacancies in their own body, and shall be authorized to act on behalf of the Association, during its recess: they shall meet monthly, and keep fair minutes of all their proceedings, which, with the cor- respondence, shall be laid before the Association at its Quarterly meetings. members shall form a quorum. 5th. The Association shall meet once in three months, on the day of . At the first Quarterly Meeting in each year, a statement of the accounts, and of the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed, and on hand, shall be exhibited ; the several officers appointed; and a detailed report of the pro- 20 ceedings during the preceding year, be prepared and forwarded to the Secretary of the Bible Association of Friends in Ame- rica; to attend the Annual Meeting of which, delegates may be — appointed. 6th. The amount of subscriptions and donations to this Asso- ciation, after deducting the necessary expenses, shall be remit- ted annually to the Treasurer of the Bible Association of Friends in America, in consideration of the provision made in the tenth article of its Constitution, viz: “ The full amount paid by Aux- iliary Societies to the Treasurer of this Association, shall be returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in Bibles or Testaments at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the Managers; but all sums not so demanded, shall remain at the disposal of this Associa- tion, to aid in promoting its general objects.” 7th. Every subscriber to this Association shall be entitled to a return of one-half of the amount of his life or annual sub- scription, in Bibles or Testaments at cost, under such regula- tions as may be hereafter adopted. 8th. The members of the Association shall appoint commit- tees, whose duty it shall be to solicit subscriptions in their re- spective neighbourhoods, and to inquire what families, individu- als or schools, are in want of Bibles or Testaments, and make report thereof to the Association or the Committee of Corres- pondence, in order that they may be promptly supplied, either at prime cost or otherwise, according to circumstances. 9th. A list of such committees shall be kept by the Secre- tary; and at every Quarterly Meeting, each committee shall be called upon to report the state of its neighbourhood; the amount of moneys collected, and the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed or required. 10th. Any member ceasing to be a member of the religious Society of Friends, shall cease to be a member of this Associ- ation. 21 QUERIES ADDRESSED TO AUXILIARIES. 1. What number of families or individuals have been gratu- itously furnished with the Holy Scriptures by the Association, during the past year! 2. What number of Bibles and Testaments have been sold by the Association, within the past year ! 3. How many members, male and female, are there belong- ing to the Association: and what number of families of Friends reside within its limits? | 4, Are there any families of Friends within your limits not supplied with the Holy Scriptures; and if so, how many! 5. How many members of our Society, capable of reading the Bible, do not own a complete copy? 6. How many Bibles or Testaments may probably be dis- posed of by sale within your limits! 7. Is the income of the Auxiliary sufficient to supply those within its limits who are not duly furnished with the Holy Scriptures ? 8. What number of Bibles and Testaments would it be ne- cessary for the Bible Association to furnish gratuitously to ena- ble the Auxiliary to supply each family? 9. What number would be necessary to furnish each member of our religious Society, capable of reading, who is destitute of a copy, and unable to purchase it! 10*. What is the number of each kind of Bibles and ‘Testa- ments now on hand? * A full and explicit answer to this, with the other Queries, is particularly requested. 22 AUXILIARY SOCIETIES. Vassalborough, Maine, Auxiliary Bible Association. New York, New York, do, Scipio, do, do. Farmington, do. do. Cornwall, do. do. Duanesburg, do. do, Purchase, do. do. Saratoga, do. do. Ferrisburg, Vermont, do. Yonge Street, Upper Canada, do, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, do. Bucks, do. do, Red Stone, do. do, Concord, do. do, Burlington, New Jersey, do, Salem, do. do. Haddonfield, do. do. Baltimore, Maryland, do. Upper Quarterly Meeting, Va., — do. New Garden, N. C., do. Deep River, do. do. Southern, do. do. Eastern, do. do, Stillwater, Ohio, do, Miami, do. do. Salem, a do. AlumCreek, do. do, Centre, do. do. Flushing, _— do. do, Fairfield, do, do, Short Creek, do. do. Chesterfield, do. do. New Garden, Indiana, do. New Garden, Central, do. do. Blue River, do. do. 23 White Water, Indiana, Auxiliary Bible Association. White Lick, do. do. Westfield, do, do. Springfield, do. do. Western, do. do, Spiceland, do. do. Hamilton, do. do. Northern, do. do. Honey Creek, do. do. Salem, [owa, | do, Adrian, Michigan, do, FORMS OF LEGACY. 1. Form of a Bequest of Personal Estate. *<] give and bequeath to A. B. and A. C, and the survivor of them, and the ‘executors and administrators of such survivor, the sum of in trust for the use of an Institution in Philadelphia, known bythe name of ‘The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and to be :paid by the said Trustees to the Treasurer for the time being of the said Institution.” —eeeeeeeeeeeeeEeEOEOOEOOEoeEeOes" 2. Form of a Devise of Real Estate. “] give and devise to A. B. and C. D. and their heirs, all that (here describe the property) together with the appurtenances, to hold to them, the said A. B. and C., D. and the survivor of them, and the heirs of such survivors for ever; in trust nevertheless for the sole use and benefit of an Institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of «The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and upon this further trust, absolutely to dispose of, and convey the same, either in fee, or for such other estate, and in such way and manner, as the members of the said Association shall, at any meeting or meetings, order, di- rect, and appoint.” 24 The Depository of the Bible Association is at No. 50 North Fourth street, a few doors above Arch street. Communications respecting the business of the office may be addressed to John Richardson, Agent. Qnnwwnn nnn en | BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. DEPOSITORY No. 50 NORTH FOURTH STREET, UP STAIRS, PHILA. PRICES OF BIBLES AND TESTAMENTS. Sere of . : with Fam. Rec. SPSSES ES 2» = F oe GESSRusseRk Kusesssesss nee SW HM HK wo @ gesteussugpsessueerueuss 8 New Testament ..0.ccsscccccecscescseces SESESSEESS — and Pealins, bound together ... do. » fe jj — CR eee ee eee ee ee ee eee THE TWENTY-THIRD ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA: READ AT 'THE ANNUAL MEETING HELD ON THE EVENING OF THE SEVENTEENTH OF FOURTH MONTH, 1852. RPL LLL PHILADELPHIA: PRINTED BY JOSEPH* RAKESTRAW, APPLE-TREE ALLEY. OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION. JOHN CARTER, Secretary. BENJAMIN H. WARDER, Treasurer. CORRESPONDING MEMBERS, ‘THOMAS KIMBER, CHARLES YARNALL, SAMUEL BETTLE, Jr. | MANAGERS, JEREMIAH HACKER, JOHN ELLIOTT, JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, HORATIO C. WOOD, WILLIAM BETTLE, CHARLES WILLIAMS, ~~ eee CHARLES ELLIS, URIAH HUNT, TOWNSEND SHARPLESS, ; JOHN M. WHITALL, GEORGE G. WILLIAMS, _ ‘THOMAS EVANS, JOHN LIPPINCOTT, THEOPHILUS E. BEESLEY, | oe- RICHARD RICHARDSON TO THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. Tue Managers report, that there have been sold, or gratuitously disposed of during the past year, 1495 Bibles, 833 ‘Testaments, and 98 copies of Testament and Psalms. Of these 497 Bibles and 148 Testaments have been sold to Auxiliaries, and 781 Bibles and 502 Testaments have been furnished to Auxiliary Associations, for gra- tuitous distribution or sale at reduced prices, at their discretion. An edition of 2000 copies of the School Bible is nearly finished, and one of 1000 Testaments and 500 Psalms is now in the press. A statement of the receipts and disbursements is here- with submitted, as well as of tle stock of books on hand. _ Reports have been received from 15 Auxiliaries, viz. : Alum Creek and Fairfield, Ohio; Western, Springfield, White Water, Westfield, Northern, Honey Creek, White Lick, Hamilton, Indiana; Vassalborough, Maine; Salem, Iowa; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ; Burlington, New- Jersey ; and Eastern, North Carolina. A considerable number have not furnished the Parent Association with any account of their transactions during the year which has elapsed. 4 From the Reports received it appears, that in some neighbourhoods a lively interest continues to be felt in promoting the distribution and reading of the Holy Scriptures. ‘The supplies furnished by the Managers for distribution have been gladly received, and many families who were either destitute or possessed of very inferior copies, have been furnished with good Bibles and Testaments. In some of the Auxiliaries, efforts have been made to furnish every individual capable of reading, with a copy. In one, including within its limits 1217 readers, all have been supplied excepting 140, mostly young children, and the work is still progressing. Considering the importance of an early acquaintance with the Holy Scriptures, and the advantage to be derived from the private reading of them, it is greatly to be desired that the families of Friends may be so furnished, that each individual may have his own copy. The Managers have thought it right to aid, by liberal appropriations for this purpose, the efforts of those Associations whiose situation seemed to require it. The Bibles intended for gratuitous distribution, have been freely furnished to distant Auxiliaries. The rapid increase of Friends in newly settled districts, and the strenuous efforts required for the support of their families, give those settlements strong claims upon our sympathy; nor is the benefit to be derived from this labour of love confined to the recipients ; we believe it often is the case, that those who are engaged to distribute the Holy Scriptures, are led to a more intimate acquaintance with their contents, and a more just appreciation of them. One of the Reports acknowledges with much feel- 5 ing, that though its labours have not been extensive, much good has been done by the effort to carry ont the objects of the Association; and the liberality of the Parent Association has enabled them to place the Holy Scriptures within reach of many, who would otherwise have been destitute. It is gratifying to find by the Report of another, “ that the meetings of the Association are becoming more and more interesting to Friends, which is evinced by the very large number who attend.” It is not deemed necessary to extend this Report by further extracts from the communications which have come to hand; they mostly concur in representing, that very considerable deficiencies still exist ; and that the means of many of them are inadequate to the sup- ply of their wants. The Managers have again to regret, that in some places where Auxiliaries were once in active useful operation, they seem to have declined. ‘They believe that in no other way can adequate supplies of the Scrip- tures be kept up, but by frequent examination, and they are satisfied that the examination will in many cases be productive of good to both parties. ‘They cor- dially invite Friends in those neighbourhoods where no Auxiliaries have been formed, or where they have ceased to exist, or the interest in them has declined, to a con- sideration of this subject, and will be glad to co-operate with them should their aid be required. The number of members of the Parent Association having considerably diminished by death or otherwise, efforts have been made by the Board to obtain additional G subscriptions, which have been attended with consider- able success. Signed on behalf and by direction of the Managers. WILLIAM BETTLE, Secretary. Philadelphia, Fourth Month 17th, 1852. Summary of the Treasurer's Account. PAYMENTS. Investment in $ 1000 Spring Garden Rail Road - $1040 00 Loan, for Sinking Fund, Agent’s salary, . ; : ; ; ; 7 : 400 00 Printing Bibles and Testaments, . : t a al 57 50 Binding, “ “ ori) oft tet). [leh anh oc neat Paper for “ o » : : : , 519 60 Repairs to Stereotype Plates, . . : ° : 3 82 Incidental expenses, including the printing 110 O1 of Annual Report, : Repairs to Depository Building, . ; ; ‘ : 67 15 Water-rent, on “ 6 t : : : ‘ 22 50 2699 65 Balance on hand Fourth mo. 12th, 1852, . . 704 91 $3404 56 =~] RECEIPTS. Balance on hand, Fourth mo. 5th, 1351, : 7 . $168 39 Legacy of George Williams, appropriated to ae 950 00 the Sinking Fund, for Stereotype plates, Book Account, . : 7 : : : ‘ d 226 51 Auxiliaries for Bibles and Testaments, ; d : 399 42 Donations Returned, . : 3 ‘ ; } : 112 57 Annual] Subscriptions, . —.. ; : . Z ; 81 00 Life Subscriptions, . ‘ ; , ; 300 00 Interest on Investment for Sinking F tied, : . 130 20 Rents of Depository Building, $ 1205, less taxes, $168 53, . : . 1036 47 $3404 56 STOCK OF BOOKS ON HAND, FOURTH MONTH Ist, 1852. BOUND. 356 Reference Bibles, Svo. 285 School 66 24mo. 715 Testaments 12mo. 438 é¢ 24mo. 96 Testaments and Psalms, 12mo. IN SHEETS. 527 Reference Bibles, (folded) 8vo. 100 ‘Testaments, 24mo. 36 Psalms, 12mo. CONSTITUTION OF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. alata ARTICLE I, ‘Tur designation of this Society, shall be “ The Bible Association of Friends in America.” ARTICLE Il, The objects of this Association shall be, to encourage a wider circu- lation, as well as a more frequent and serious perusal of the Holy Scriptures, and to promote a more accurate knowledge of their in- valuable contents. ARTICLE LI, The attention of this Association, shall be first directed to furnishing the Bible to such members of the Religious Society of Friends, as may not be duly supplied; and also, as its funds will permit, to other persons, ARTICLE Iv. Any person paying to the Treasurer of this Institution, Twenty-five dollars at one time, or three dollars annually, and being a member of the Religious Society of Friends, shall be a member of this Association. ARTICLE V. The Officers of this Association shall be, a Secretary, a Treasurer, a Committee of Correspondence, and a Board of Managers. ARTICLE VI. The Association shall appoint annually, fifleen of its members as Managers, to conduct its business. They shall be entrusted with the 9 printing and distribution of the Holy Scriptures, in such manner, and at such prices, as they may judge proper, consistent with the objects of this Association. ‘They shall have the power of filling such vacancies in the list of Officers, or of the Managers, as may occur in the recess of the Association; and the minutes of their proceedings shall be laid before the Association, at its Annual Meetings. ARTICLE VII. A Committee of three persons shall be appointed annually, to corre- spond with Societies or individuals, on behalf of this Association, under the direction of the Managers, to whom the correspondence shall be submitted, at their Stated Meetings. ARTICLE VIII. It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to receive and keep in trust, all monies and title deeds, and papers relating to the real estate of the Association ; he shall pay all orders drawn by it on the Board of Man- agers; shall make a quarterly statement of his accounts to the latter ; and he shall also make an Annual Report to them at their Meeting in the fourth month, of his receipts and payments during the past year; which report shall be submitted, after due examination, to the Annual Meeting of the Association. He shall deposit all monies received by him, on account of the Association, in its name, in one of the Banks in the City of Philadelphia, and pay all orders by checks; and he shall keep the accounts in a separate book, provided for the purpose. ARTICLE IX. All the Officers of the Association shall be ex-officio members of the Board of Managers ; and seven members shall constitute a quorum. ARTICLE X,. Each member of the Association shall be entitled to a return of one- half of his life or annual subscription, in Bibles or Testaments, at the Society’s lowest prices, at any time during the year in which the sub- scription is made, under such regulations as the Managers may estab- lish. & 10 ARTICLE XI. Such members of the Religious Society of Friends, as may form themselves into Bible Associations, under the rules recommended by this Association, shall be considered as Auxiliaries, and entitled to privileges hereinafter provided, ARTICLE XII. The full amount paid by Auxiliary Societies to the Treasurer of this Association, shall be’returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in Bibles and Testaments, at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the Managers; but all sums not so demanded, shall remain at the disposal of this Association, to aid in promoting its general objects. Auxiliary Societies complying with these regulations, shall be entitled to send delegates to attend the An- nual Meetings of the Bible Association. ARTICLE XIIl. Every person paying to the Treasurer of an Auxiliary Society, the sum of Twenty-five dollars at one time, or three dollars annually, and being a member of the Religious Society of Friends, shall, on produc- mg a receipt for such payment, be entitled to the privileges mm member- ship in this Association. ARTICLE XIV. The Annual Meetings of the Association shall be held in Philadel- ' phia, on the evening of the seventh-day preceding the third second-day in the fourth month, at which time the Officers shall be appointed. ARTICLE XV. No alteration shall be made in this Constitution, but at an Annual Meeting, and with the consent of two-thirds of the members present. ARTICLE XVI, Any member of this Association, ceasing to be a member of the Religious Society of Friends, shall cease to be a member of this Asso- ciation, 11 Rules for the government of the Auxiliary Associations. The objects and Constitution of the Bible Association of Friends in America, having the approbation of this meeting, it is agreed, that a Society be now formed under the following rules, to be called the “ Auxiliary Bible Association of Friends,” for the purpose of supplying Friends and others, in this vicinity, with the Holy Scriptures, encouraging the frequent and serious perusal of them, and promoting a more accurate knowledge of their invaluable contents; also, of co-operating with the Bible Association of Friends in America, in furthering their important objects in other places. RULES. lst. Any person paying to the Treasurer dollars at one time, or dollars annually, and being a member of the re- ligious Society of Friends, shall be a member of this Associa- tion. 2nd. Any member of the Bible Association of Friends in America, residing in this district, shall be considered a member of this Auxiliary Association. 3rd. The officers of this Association shall be a Secretary, Treasurer, and a Committee of Correspondence. 4th. The Committee of Correspondence shall consist of the Secretary, Treasurer, and members, to be chosen annu- ally: they shall have the power of filling vacancies in their own body, and shall be authorized to act on behalf ‘of the Association, during its recess: they shall meet monthly, and keep fair minutes of all their proceedings, which, with the cor- respondence, shall be laid before the Association at its Quarterly meetings. members shall form a quorum. 5th. The Association shall meet once in three months, on the day of . At the first Quarterly Meeting in each year, a statement of the accounts, and of the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed, and on hand, shall be exhibited ; the several officers appointed; and a detailed report of the pro- 12 ceedings during the preceding year, be prepared and forwarded to the Secretary of the Bible Association of Friends in Ame- rica; to attend the Annual Meeting of which, delegates may be appointed. 6th. The amount of subscriptions and donations to this Asso- ciation, after deducting the necessary expenses, shall be remit- ted annually to the Treasurer of the Bible Association of Friends in America, in consideration of the provision made in the tenth article of its Constitution, viz: “ The full amount paid by Aux- iliary Societies to the Treasurer of this Association, shall be returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in Bibles or Testaments at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the Managers; but all sums not so demanded, shall remain at the disposal of this Associa- tion, to aid in promoting its general objects.” 7th. Every subscriber to this Association shall be entitled to a return of one-half of the amount of his life or annual sub- scription, in Bibles or Testaments at cost, under such regula- tions as may be hereafter adopted. 8th. The members of the Association shall appoint commit- tees, whose duty it shall be to solicit subscriptions in their re- spective neighbourhoods, and to inquire what families, individu- als or schools, are in want of Bibles or Testaments, and make report thereof to the Association or the Committee of Corres- pondence, in order that they may be promptly supplied, either at prime cost or otherwise, according to circumstances. 9th. A list of such committees shall be kept by the Secre- tary ; and at every Quarterly Meeting, each committee shall be called upon to report the state of its neighbourhood; the amount of moneys collected, and the number of Bibles and ‘Testaments distributed or required. 10th. Any member ceasing to be a member of the religious Society of Friends, shall cease to be a member of this Associ- ation. 15 : QUERIES ADDRESSED TO AUXILIARIES, 1. What number of families or individuals have been gratu- itously furnished with the Holy Scriptures by the Association, during the past year? 2. What number of Bibles and Testaments have been sold by the Association, within the past year? 3. How many members, male and female, are there belong- ing to the Association: and what number of families of Friends reside within its limits? 4, Are there any families of Friends within your limits not supplied with the Holy Scriptures; and if so, how many? 5. How many members of our Society, capable of reading the Bible, do not own a complete copy? 6. How many Bibles or Testaments may probably be dis- posed of by sale within your limits ? 7. Is the income of the Auxiliary sufficient to supply those within its limits who are not duly furnished with the Holy Scriptures ? 8. What number of Bibles and Testaments would it be ne- cessary for the Bible Association to furnish gratuitously to ena- ble the Auxiliary to supply each family? 9. What number would be necessary to furnish each member of our religious Society, capable of reading, who is destitute of a copy, and unable to purchase it! 10*. What is the number of each kind of Bibles and Testa- ments now on hand ? * A fall and explicit answer to this, with the other Queries, is particularly requested. 14 AUXILIARY SOCIETIES. Vassalborough, Maine, Auxiliary Bible Association. New York, New York, do. Scipio, do. do. Farmington, do. do. Cornwall, do. do. Duanesburg, do. do. "fy Purchase, do. do. Saratoga, do. do. Ferrisburg, Vermont, do. Yonge Street, Upper Canada, do, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, do. Bucks, do. do. . Red Stone, do. do. Concord, do. do. Burlington, New Jersey, do. Salem, do. do. Haddonfield, do. do. Baltimore, Maryland, do. Upper Quarterly Meeting, Va., _— do. New Garden, N. C., do. Deep River, do. do. Southern, do. do. Eastern, do. do. Stillwater, Ohio, do, Miami, do. do. Salem, do. AlumCreek, do. Centre, do. Flushing, do. Fairfield, do. Short Creek, do. Chesterfield, do. New Garden, Indiana, New Garden, Central, do. Blue River, do. SREES ESE SS 15 White Water, Indiana, Auxiliary Bible Association. White Lick, do. do. Westfield, do. do. Springfield, do. do. Western, do. do. Spiceland, do. do. Hamilton, do. do. Northern, do. do. Honey Creek, do. do. Salem, Iowa, | do. Adrian, Michigan, do. FORMS OF LEGACY. 1. Form of a Bequest of Personal Estate. «| give and bequeath to A. B. and A. C. and tne survivor of them, and the executors and administrators of such survivor, the sum of in trust for the use of an Institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and to be paid by the said Trustees to the Treasurer for the time being of the said Institution.” 2. Form of a Devise of Real Estate. «J give and devise to A. B. and C, D. and their heirs, all that (here describe the property) together with the appurtenances, to hold to them, the said A. B. and C, D. and the survivor of them, and the heirs of such survivors for ever; in trust nevertheless for the sole use and benefit of an I[nstitution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘ The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and upon this further trust, absolutely to dispose of, and convey the same, either in fee, or for such other estate, and in such way and manner, as the members of the said Association shall, at any meeting or meetings, order, di- rect, and appoint.” 16 The Depository of the Bible Association is at No. 50 North Fourth street, a few doors above Arch street. Communications respecting the business of the office may be addressed to John Richardson, Agent. o--_—"-------- ~~ ae | BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. | DEPOSITORY No. 50 NORTH FOURTH STREET, UP STAIRS, PHILA. PRICES OF BIBLES AND TESTAMENTS. Sale acl Price to | Testa- of Bible. . Peon } nites Bible Index & < therm yes cis _ - . do. do, do. 30 |350 do. do. Fine 1 17% do. do, do. 200 225 do. do. do. 2» 275 do. do, do. 20 225 do. do, do. 3 00 3235 do. do, do. 400 435 ; ci eines ihbeduvkeses eb in Bl Mie vnhebhedun ob bn on 28 33} do. Wb tus csdck wick steed am | 44 ° eg ere ee ea eee » 2 Pe er en Ss | 6s THE TWENTY-FOURTH ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION FRIENDS IN AMERICA: READ AT THE ANNUAL MEETING, HELD ON THE EVENING OF THE SIXTEENTH OF FOURTH MONTH, 1853. ————EeSeea PHILADELPHIA: PRINTED BY JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, APPLE-TREE ALLEY. _—_—_—e 1853, OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION. JOHN CARTER, Secrerary. BENJAMIN H. WARDER, Treasurer. eee eee CORRESPONDING MEMBERS, THOMAS KIMBER, CHARLES YARNALL, SAMUEL BETTLE, Jr. MANAGERS, JEREMIAH HACKER, | HORATIO C. WOOD, JOHN ELLIOTT, WILLIAM BETTLE, JOSEPH RAKESTRAW, CHARLES WILLIAMS, CHARLES ELLIS, URIAH HUNT, TOWNSEND SHARPLESS, JOHN M. WHITALL, GEORGE G. WILLIAMS, THOMAS EVANS, JOHN LIPPINCOTT, RICHARD RICHARDSON, THEOPHILUS E. BEESLEY, ~ Neen ee eee TO THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. Tur Managers report, that there have been sold or gratuitously disposed of during the past year, 1768 Bibles, 1532 ‘Testaments, and 145 copies of Testaments and Psalms. Of these, 1177 Bibles and 1197 Testa- ments, have been furnished to Auxiliary Associations, for gratuitous distribution or sale at reduced prices, at their discretion. An edition of 1000 copies of the Reference Bible has been printed, and one of 2000 of the 24mo. Testament ; and one of 1000 of the 12mo. Testament are now in press. A statement of the Treasurer’s account, exhibiting the receipts and disbursements, is herewith submitted ; and also an account of the stock of books on hand. Reports have been received from 12 Auxiliaries, viz: White Lick, Westfield, Hamilton, Spiceland, Northern, Western, Blue River, New Garden, and White Water, Indiana; Fairfield, Ohio; Salem, Iowa; and Philadel- phia. From a considerable number no reports have been received. It was within the limits of Ohio and Indiana Yearly Meetings, that the greatest deficiency in a supply of good copies of the Holy Scriptures formerly existed. The Auxiliary Associations in that quarter have mani- fested much activity and benevolent zcal, in ascertaining the wants of Friends in their respective localities, and supplying them as occasion offered; in doing which 4 they have been aided from time to time by donations from the Parent Association. The reports from one or more being incomplete, the number of individuals or families supplied gratuitously, by those which have furnished statements of their pro- ceedings during the past year, cannot be exactly ascer- tained; but it is probably not less than 800; besides which, a considerable number of Bibles and Testaments have been sold by them. By the Reports received at this time, we have the gratifying information from no less than nine of the Western Auxiliaries, within whose limits about three thousand families of Friends reside, that it is believed each of them is furnished with one or more copies of the sacred volume, and for the most part with Reference Bibles. In view of the great importance of an early acquaint- ance with the Holy Scriptures, the Managers have encouraged the Auxiliary Associations to endeavour, as far as practicable, and in their judgment expedient, to supply individuals, including the younger members of Friends’ families, so that each one capable of reading may own a Bible. Some of the Auxiliaries have made considerable pro- gress toward the attainment of this desirable object, and one of them mentions, that out of 1200 members capa- ble of reading, nearly all are supplied who have come to sufficient years to render it necessary; much still re- mains to be accomplished within the limits of others. One Report states, “it appears from present indi- cations, that we shall be able to dispose of a larger number of Bibles by sale the present year, than for- 5 4 merly ; while it is evident, that a larger number will have to be gratuitously disposed of; while a great number of the junior members of our Society will for a time be individually unsupplied ; but our members, com- mittees, and agents, have been encouraged to increased activity in promoting the cause, and to endeavour to stimulate this interesting class to procure and peruse the Sacred Volume.” Another says; “we desire to express our grateful acknowledgments for the very liberal donation of Bibles and Testaments granted us during the past year; and rejoice that we have thereby been enabled to supply the wants of many with copies of these valuable writ- ings. We also feel encouraged in the belief, that there is an increased interest felt among the members of our Society, within our limits in this interesting work, which has been manifested by the increased number who have become members of our Auxiliary during the past year; and also, by the number generally in attendance at our meetings.” Another says; “we desire to express our grateful acknowledgment, for the liberal donation of Bibles and Testaments received in the seventh month last, which has enabled us to furnish quite a number of the poorer class of our members with copies gratuitously, and others at reduced prices. Thus through your kindness a much greater number of Friends and their descendants, have been furnished with these invaluable writings. It will be seen by our Report that much remains to be done, before all our young people can be supplied, which we feel to be an object worthy to be kept in view.” Considering the great advantage that has resulted 6 > from the well directed efforts of many of the Auxiliary Associations, we would earnestly invite Friends, in those parts where there are now none in active operation, to a consideration of the subject, and inform them, that the Managers will be glad to second their endeavours by donations of Bibles and ‘Testaments, to be disposed of in their discretion, either gratuitously or by sale, at low prices. On recurring to the sorrowful deficiency which existed among the members of our religious Society, in various parts of the country when this Association was estab- lished, it is felt to be cause of satisfaction and thankful- ness, that it has been enabled to contribute so essentially towards bringing about a better state of things in this respect. There is, however, still a wide field of useful labour remaining to be occupied; and it is to be hoped, that neither the Bible Association of Friends in America, nor its Auxiliary Branches, will relax their exertions when the wants of our own members appear to ne in good measure supplied. True Christian philanthropy teaches us to regard all mankind as our brethren, and we should esteem it a privilege, to be instrumental in any degree, in promoting the welfare of our fellow creatures, especially of those, who in the allotment of Divine Providence, have received fewer temporal advantages than ourselves. There is a large class of persons, who though not in membership with Friends, make the same religious pro- fession, and generally attend our meetings for Divine worship; next after our own members, the wants of these may with great propriety be investigated and sup- plied; and finally, those of individuals, of whatever re- 7 ligious profession, who are thrown upon our observation and notice. Signed on behalf and by direction of the Managers. WILLIAM BETTLE, Secretary. Philadelphia, Fourth month 14th, 1853. Summary of the Treasurer’s Account. PAYMENTs. Agent’s salary, : Printing Bibles and Testaments, Binding, “ 6 Paper for “ ng Carpenter Work, &c. Packing Boxes, Printing Annual Report, Insurance on Books, Plates, &c., Investment for Sinking Fund in Lehigh Mortgage Loan, Sundries, . : : : Balance on hand Fourth mo. 9th, 1853, RECEIPTS. Balance on hand, Fourth mo. 12th, 1852, Book Account, Auxiliaries, Donations Returned, Life and Annual Subscriptions, Interest on Investments for Sinking Fund, Rents of Depository Building, $1472 50 Less water rent and taxes, $198 90, : $ 400 502 777 541 52 15 25 75 203 30 2628 619 $ 3247 59 a $ 704 284 582 212 59 130 1273 $ 3247 91 83 48 57 00 20 60 59 8 STOCK OF BOOKS ON HAND, FOURTH MONTH Ist, 1853. BOUND. 396 Reference Bibles, 8vo. 160 School & 24mo. 423 Testaments 12mo. 372 “ 24mo. 50 Testaments and Psalms, 12mo. SHEETS FOLDED. 816 Reference Bibles, 8vo. 525 School Bibles, 24mo. 292 Testaments, 12mo. 413 6 and Psalms, 12mo. — CONSTITUTION OF THE BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. ARTICLE I. ' Tie designation of this Society, shall be “ The Bible Association of Friends in America.” ARTICLE Il, The objects of this Association shall be, to encourage a wider circu- lation, as well as a more frequent and serious perusal of the Holy Scriptures, and to promote a more accurate knowledge of their in- valuable contents. ARTICLE II, The attention of this Association, shall be first directed to furnishing the Bible to such members of the Religious Society of Friends, as may not be duly supplied; and also, as its funds will permit, to other persons, ARTICLE Iv. Any person paying to the Treasurer of this Institution, Twenty-five dollars at one time, or three dollars annually, and being a member of the Religious Society of Friends, shall be a member of this Association. 9 ARTICLE V. The Officers of this Association shall be, a Secretary, a Treasurer, a Committee of Correspondence, and a Board of Managers. ARTICLE VI. The Association shall appoint annually, fifteen of its members as Managers, to conduct its business. They shall be entrusted with the printing and distribution of the Holy Scriptures, in such manner, and at such prices, as they may jndge proper, consistent with the objects of this Association. They shall have the power of filling such vacancies in the list of Officers, or of the Managers, as may occur in the recess of the Association; and the minutes of their proceedings shall si laid before the Association, at its Annual Meeting. ARTICLE VII. A Committee of three persons shall be appointed annually, to corre- spond with Societies or individuals, on behalf of this Association, uhder the direction of the Managers, to whom the correspondence shall be submitted, at their Stated Meetings. ARTICLE VIII. It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to receive and keep in trust, all monies and title deeds, and papers relating to the real estate of the Association ; he shall pay all orders drawn by it on the Board of Man- agers; shall make a quarterly statement of his accounts to the latter ; and he shall also make an Annual Report to them at their Meeting in the fourth month, of his receipts and payments during the past year ; which report shall be submitted, after due examination, to the Annual Meeting of the Association. He shall deposit all monies received by him, on account of the Association, in its name, in one of the Banks in the City of Philadelphia, and pay all orders by checks; and he shall keep the accounts in a separate book, provided for the purpose. ARTICLE IX, All the Officers of the Association shall be ex-officio members of the Board of Managers; and seven members shall constitute a quorum, ARTICLE X. Each member of the Association shall be entitled to a return of one- half of his life or annual subscription, in Bibles or Testaments, at the 10 Society’s lowest prices, at any time during the year in which the sub- scription is made, under such regulations as the Managers may estab- lish, ARTICLE XI. Such members of the Religious Society of Friends, as may form themselves into Bible Associations, under the rules recommended by this Association, shall be considered as Auxiliaries, and entitled to privileges hereinafter provided. ARTICLE XII. The full amount paid by Auxiliary Societies to the Treasurer of this Association, shall be returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in Bibles and Testaments, at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the Managers; but all sums not so demanded, shall remain at the disposal of this Association, to aid in promoting its general objects. Auxiliary Societies complying with these regulations, shall be entitled to send delegates to attend the An- nual Meetings of the Bible Association. ARTICLE XIII, Every person paying to the Treasurer of an Auxiliary Society, the sum of Twenty-five dollars at one time, or three dollars annually, and being a member of the Religious Society of Friends, shall, on produc- ing a receipt for such payment, be entitled to the privileges of member- ship in this Association. ARTICLE XIV. The Annual Meetings of the Association shall be held in Philadel- phia, on the evening of the seventh-day preceding the third second-day in the fourth month, at which time the Officers shall be appointed. ARTICLE XV. No alteration shall be made in this Constitution, but at an Annual Meeting, and with the consent of two-thirds of the members present. ARTICLE XVI. Any member of this Association, ceasing to be a member of the Religious Society of Friends, shall cease to be a member of this Asso- ciation. , Ww 11 Rules for the government of the Auxiliary Associations. The objects and Constitution of the Bible Association of Friends in America, having the approbation of this meeting, it is agreed, that a Society be now formed under the following rules, to be called the “ Auxiliary Bible Association of Friends,” for the purpose of supplying Friends and others, in this vicinity, with the Holy Scriptures, encouraging the frequent and serious perusal of them, and promoting a more accurate knowledge of their invaluable contents; also, of co-operating with the Bible Association of Friends in America, in furthering their important objects in other places. RULES. Ist. Any person paying to the Treasurer dollars at one time, or dollars annually, and being a member of the re- ligious Society of Friends, shall be a member of this Associa- tion. 2nd. Any member of the Bible Association of Friends in America, residing in this district, shall be considered a member of this Auxiliary Association. 8rd. The officers of this Association shall be a Secretary, Treasurer, and a Committee of Correspondence. 4th. The Committee of Correspondence shall consist of the Secretary, Treasurer, and members, to be chosen annu- ally: they shall have the power of filling vacancies in their own body, and shall be authorized to act on behalf of the Association, during its recess: they shall meet monthly, and keep fair minutes of all their proceedings, which, with the cor- respondence, shall be laid before the Association at its Quarterly meetings. members shall form a quorum. 5th. The Association shall meet once in three months, on the day of . At the first Quarterly Meeting in each year, a statement of the accounts, and of the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed, and on hand, shall be exhibited ; the several officers appointed ; and a detailed report of the pro- 12 ceedings during the preceding year, be prepared and forwarded to the Secretary of the Bible Association of Friends in Ame- rica; to attend the Annual Meeting of which, delegates may be appointed. 6th. The amount of subscriptions and donations to this Asso- ciation, after deducting the necessary expenses, shall be remit- ted annually to the Treasurer of the Bible Association of Friends in America, in consideration of the provision made in the tenth article of its Constitution, viz: “ The full amount paid by Aux- iliary Societies to the Treasurer of this Association, shall be returned to them, if demanded within the current year, in Bibles or Testaments at the lowest prices, subject to the regulations which may be established by the Managers; but all sums no so demanded, shall remain at the disposal of this Associa- tion, to aid in promoting its general] objects.” 7th. Every subscriber to this Association shall be entitled to a return of one-half of the amount of his life or annual sub- scription, in Bibles or Testaments at cost, under such regula- tions as may be hereafter adopted. 8th. The members of the Association shall appoint commit- tees, whose duty it shall be to solicit subscriptions in their re- spective neighbourhoods, and to inquire what families, individu- als or schools, are in want of Bibles or Testaments, and make report thereof to the Association or the Committee of Corres- pondence, in order that they may be promptly supplied, either at prime cost or otherwise, according to circumstances. 9th. A list of such committees shall be kept by the Secre- tary; and at every Quarterly Meeting, each committee shall be called upon to report the state of its neighbourhood; the amount of moneys collected, and the number of Bibles and Testaments distributed or required. 10th. Any member ceasing to be a member of the religious Society of Friends, shall cease to be a member of this Associ- ation. 13 QUERIES ADDRESSED TO AUXILIARIES. 1. What number of families or individuals have been gratu- itously furnished with the Holy Scriptures by the Auxiliary during the past year? 2. What number of Bibles and Testaments have been sold by the Auxiliary, within the past year? 3. How many members, male and female, are there belong- ing to the Auxiliary. 4. What number of families of Friends reside within its limits ? 5. Are there any families of Friends within your limits not supplied with a copy of the Holy Scriptures in good clear type, and on fair paper; if so, how many ? 6. How many members of our Society, capable of reading the Bible, do not own such a copy of the Holy Scriptures? 7. How many Bibles and Testaments may probably be dis- posed of by sale within your limits! 8. Is the income of the Auxiliary sufficient to supply those within its limits who are not duly furnished with the Holy Scriptures ? 9. What number of Bibles and Testaments would it be ne- cessary for the Bible Association to furnish gratuitously to ena- ble the Auxiliary to supply each family? 10. What number would be required in order to furnish each member of our religious Society, capable of reading, who is destitute of a copy, and unable to purchase it? 11*. How many Bibles and Testaments of each kind are now on hand? * A full and explicit answer to this, with the other Queries, is particularly requested. 14 AUXILIARY SOCIETIES. Vassalborough, Maine, Auxiliary Bible Association, New York, New York, do. Scipio, do. do. Farmington, do. do. Cornwall, do. do. Duanesburg, do. do. Purchase, do. do. Saratoga, do. do. Ferrisburg, Vermont, do. Yonge Street, Upper Canada, do. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, _» do, Bucks, do. do. Red Stone, do, do. Concord, do. do. Burlington, New Jersey, do, Salem, do. do. Haddonfield, do. do. Baltimore, Maryland, do. Upper Quarterly Meeting, Va., _— do. New Garden, N. C., do. Deep River, do. do. Southern, do. do. Eastern, do. do, Stillwater, Ohio, do, Miami, do. do. Salem, do. do. AlumCreek, do. do. Centre, do. do. Flushing, — do. do. Fairfield, do. do: Short Creek, do. do. Chesterfield, do. do. New Garden, Indiana, do. New Garden, Central, do. do. Blue River, do. do. 15 White Water, Indiana, Auxiliary Bible Association, White Lick, do. do. Westfield, do. . do. Springfield, do. do. Western, ‘do. do. Spiceland, do. do. Hamilton, do. do. Northern, do. do. Honey Creek, do. , do. Concord, do. do. Salem, lowa, do. Adrian, Michigan, do. FORMS OF LEGACY. 1. Form of a Bequest of Personal Estate. «¢] sive and bequeath to A. B. and A. C. and the survivor of them, and the executors and administrators of such survivor, the sum of in trust for the use of an Institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and to be paid by the said Trustees to the Treasurer for the time being of the said Institution.” 2. Form of a Devise of Real Estate. «1 give and devise to A. B. and C. D. and their heirs, all that (here describe the property) together with the appurtenances, to hold to them, the said A. B. and C,. D. and the survivor of them, and the heirs of such survivors for ever; in trust nevertheless for the sole use and benefit of an Institution in Philadelphia, known by the name of ‘The Bible Association of Friends in America,’ and upon this further trust, absolutely to dispose of, and convey the same, either in fee, or for such other estate, and in such way and manner, as the members of the said Association shall, at any meeting or meetings, order, di- rect, and appoint.” 16 The Depository of the Bible Association is at No. 50 North Fourth street, a few doors above Arch street. Communications respecting the business of the office may be addressed to John Richardson, Agent. > : c : OO Ee eee ij | 8 sananananangsfansanavent] 3 COeacqm~s roc § saasasssuera areseeReass 3 oor ancans = eat ose os efh ots 0 @ 6 & ots | IATION OF FRIENDS IN AMERICA. BIBLE PRICES OF BIBLES AND TESTAMENTS. DEPOSITORY No. 50 NORTH FOURTH STREET, UP STAIRS, PHILA. fetta decaeed, ON ee — 4 Reference New weet): Py Pit mS HOTTAINOGEA SHAT XO S2RROITIO 4 HE cee pment TWENTY FIFTH ANNUAL REPORT AMO! ‘T ott, ,AITTEA TMMAS FRIENDS IN AMERICA. eae ee eee oi eee ch OOF eo? oftat9}! SoxoBt rile fre e@istes wari sie Tioriia eQmOiit iv e2 fresh eens SyeR erie deli -efIf£ sf eA LOPES WR sioy o Chet pee: 16 ¢ eBRfvVE Aremodt eSmai lily th) owes meahtefoit Saris ix et@oonigal3 e 1#@ In @e oe Bis OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION. Se JOHN CAREER, Secretary. 7 BENJAMIN H. WARDER, Treasurer, ' & ; c COMMITTEE OF CORRESPONDENCE. THOMAS KIMBER, CHARLES YARNALL, SAMUEL BETTLE, Jr. wT ce MANAGERS. Jeremiah Hacker, Horatio C,. Wood, John Elliott, William Bettle, Joseph Rakestrayw, Charles Williams, Charles Ellis, Uriah Hunt, Townsend Sharpless, John M. Whitall, George G. Williams, Thomas Evans, John Lippincott, Richard Richardson Theophilus E, Be@gsley, TO THE ~~" ©<"" BIBLE ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS. IN AMERICA. AS ERE e. Manaaers Report, : «That. there have been. sold or gratuitously isposed of.during the past year, 2369 Bibles, 267°Testaments and 164. copies of Testaments and salms,: Of. these I2I9 Bibles.and 919 Testaments ave been furnished to Auxiliary Associations r,gratuitous distribution or sale at low prices t their diseretion,. An-edition of 1500 copies f the Reference. Bible one of 2000 of the School ible, and-one of 2000 of the 24 mo, Testament ave been.printed during the same period, A statement of, the Treasurers account exhi- iting»the receipts and disbursements is herewith bmitted and also’ an account.of the stock of okseon hand, -Our, esteemed Friend Margaret Sheppard lately eceased bequeathed $500 to the Association, and is sum-has, been paid to our Treasurer. It is xpected that the Legacy of One thousand dollars equeathed by our late esteemed Friend John Paul d payable on the decease of his widow will soon e received... It, is.intended that the amount of ese: Legacies shall. be invested so as to increas® € permanent, funds of the Association. Reports have been received from II Auxilia- ies,. viz: Vassolborough, Maine, Burlington,N.J., jladelphia, Fairfield,& Alum Creek, Ohio, White ck, Concord, Hamilton and White Water, Indiana, em and. Three Rivers, Iowa. One new Auxiliary has been recognized since he last Annual Meeting, viz: that of Concord, ndiana. From a number of them no Reports have been received, but an examination of those whic have come to hand shows that our friends who are willing to cooperate with us in various parts of this widely extended country, continue sensible of the interest and importance of the work in which we are jointly enzaged, The gratuitous. distribution. to the more di tant Auxiliaries appears to have been accaptable & useful, as will be shown. by-a few extracts from the Reports, One Auxiliary says .."*We desire sincerely to express our most grateful feelings to you, for your very liberal supply of Biblés & Téstamernts®: to us the past year, thereby plating in’ our yous the means of doing much good". Another *we bé- lieve that much good has arisen to Priénds within our limits, through ouf- feeble endéavours te pro- mote the circulation of the Holy Seriptures)* * © Another "We can most thankfully acknowledge’ the’ reception of a box Of Bibles &-Testaments from *' the Managers, which has @énabled us to furnish ~~ some families and several individuals with good © Bibles and Testaments, which have generally been thankfully received. . Wwe have an extensive field of labour open before us, situated’ as° Weare in* © a new country and many of us with young and - rising families, and in but limited eiréumstance yet we do not feel like relaxing our labours in the cause we have so recently embarked in, but» owing to our wide spread borderg and frequent © immigration, we have but’ little hopés’ of soon being able to supply all our members WS th th ie Sacred Volume, *® eT lal Within the limits of some’ of then. there“! © appears to be still room for a good deal of la= ~~ bour before’ every member of the Society or” 7 Friends capable of reading shall be furnished with a’ good copy of the Bible!” In @ thers there’ § is not much remaining to be done’ if that respect, but we think it highly desirable that Auxiliari thus favourably circumstanced should keep up thi organization; and continue their interest in this workof Christian benevolence. We feel the value that when the wants of our own members are ade- ‘quately provided for, they should in the exercise of a just discretion in some measure extend the sphere of their operations, more particularly ‘among those who though not in membership with Friends yet attend our Religious Meetings. The wants of their coloured neighbors. may. with great propriety be investigated. and supplied,. and we apprehend not unfrequently other cases will come to their knowledge in whith they may have reason to believe donations of the, Sacred. Volume will confer a benefit ppon the. recepients; We would repeat the invitation heretofore extended to Friends*in those neighborhoods. where no Auxilia- ries have been formed or when they have been suffered to decline to an, examinatiom of the sub- ject, and can assure’ them of the’ cordial coopera- tion, and aid of this Association, if they feel disposed to join in’this8 labour of love. Not- Withstanding the endeavours used for years past to ascertain and supply the.wants.of Friends cen- erally we apprehénd there. may. still. be. localities where no Auxiliaries exist. and. yet where the mem- bers of our Religious Society. are but imperfectly furnished with the Sacred Writings. In such Places Auxiliary Associations might be formed to great advantage and our dear:friends who may en- gage in the performance Of this Christian duty may it‘is to be hoped,’ be themselves’ benefitted by the close attention: they’ will probably thus be induced to give to the Holy Scriptures which "Are.able to make wise unto salvation through faith Which is in christ Jesus." - Signed on behalf and by direction of the Managers, Philada, 4M0.I3th.1854. William Rettle, | Secretary, os their aid and cooperation, and would suggest SUMMARY OF THE TREASURERS ACCOUNT, Payments, Salary of Agent $400.00 Paper | ' “7456.73 > * ’ Printing... SE SEUSS ‘527.14 ° r Binding. .% odd 2sSPoe $409 09? 2 FBR ST i+ co" Repairs to Depository Build- ie fer g . ing I06.17). o Packing BOXCB: . ce vbdicceees | 16.71 ; tI Printing Annual Report... 23 20'*e ore tor +6 Insurance On: books, plates etce67.50°” ai? 2ze9 Ineidental expenses... i..." 51,08” > gssr2, 90 Investment for Sinking Fund rs 2 in Lehigh Mortgage Loan...” © }ised oF 557.20" Balance on hand 4th, MOS 7th: eaoas ep amo f5684, 766 Receipts. tot of -berogal RBalmee on ‘hana 4M07 9th, 1853" © ©? 5» ' $619.22 Book account. 46 .2tsu¥ ic! BSSWSIAE Niles eons | Auxiliaries .6. 22656 tee 18 SBO0CS8S orgs ov Lilies Dpenations returned,......% 163.32 °°) f Annual Subscriptions. .... 42.00 "© -— 9 276 Interest on investments for © r dott Série icc Sinking Fund 124.20 niitice set Rents of D@poesitory Build- ~ © Sn sioaavhe 7 ing ~ 1556.83 oun 1’ 2 t oF Water rent & taxesI90; 10 1366.73 o? 2855.02 Lehigh Loan belonging to Sinking + : s oil | paid off by the Company © °° © ey © —©500.00" Legacy of Margaret. Sheppard © - * »500.00° Stock of Rooks on hand 4th, MO. Ist. I854. Bound - 290 Reference Bibles 8 vo, —_ 569 School do 24 mo, a 330 Testaments I2 mo. ® 265 do 24 mo, " 76 Testament & Psalms " In SheetsI200 Reference Bibles 8 vo. a " 773 School do 24 mo, " " 992,Testaments I2 mo. * ® 1400 ° 24 mo, " * 213 Testament & | Psalms I2 mo. Adjourned, »~ — a songteted OORIats (oor: évy a *,* Some ver, . ee LOOMS!) ~—et, Oo & SMa awe =e »? oe 2 blake ® ae ” Sao;matest EFS ‘f =~ ¢F nes bE 208. 08% aas av 4 J e see Oe! 4.4e¢6¢s8 0 i pe eee ee ee *s e rs Sane ee 4 3 f * za™ “ey eer en . 1 a 2a > > a . 0 ae NS 8 | A. a “ « edie ‘) * +. 5 Wt as, & Seer —= oe a. LS Sea = i el a a ae al nat a ~—* SE a a Se nt oe pos a J - > Ps A a ~s ve a) ~ -~ _—- Se ee tae . Pee pasar a ee ee ee a Sere