Herford,
Dec. 19th, 1676
Dear Brother,
I have written to you some months ago, by Robert Barclay, who passed this way, and hearing I
was your sister, desired to speak with me. I knew him to be a Quaker by his hat, and took
occasion to inform myself of all their opinions: and finding they were to submit to Magistrates in
real things, omitting the ceremonial, I wished in my heart the King might have many such subjects:
and since I have heard that notwithstanding his Majesty's most gracious letters in his behalf to the
Council of Scotland, he has been clapt up in prison with the rest of his friends, and they threaten
to hang them, at least those they call preachers among them, unless they subscribe their own
banishment; and this upon a law made against other sects, that appeared armed for the
maintenance of their heresy, which goes directly against the principles of those which are ready to
suffer all that can be inflicted, and still love and pray for their enemies. Therefore, dear brother, if
you can do anything to prevent their destruction, I doubt not but you will do an action, acceptable
to God Almighty, and conducive to the service of your Royal Master: for the Presbyterians are
their main enemies, to whom they are an eyesore, as being witnesses against all their violent ways.
I care not though his Majesty see my letter: it is written out of no less an humble affection for him,
than most sensible compassion of the innocent sufferers. You will act according to your own
discretion, and I beseech you consider me as,
Yours,
Elizabeth
1. 1.. Ibid., pages 51-53.