But they are ready, on conviction, to
change, alter, and improve. When, however, such regulations or
alterations are proposed, they must come not through the medium of an
individual, but through the medium of one of the quarterly meetings.
There is also a variety of other business at the yearly meeting. Reports
are received and considered on the subject of Ackworth school, which was
mentioned in a former part of the work as a public seminary of the
society.
Letters are also read from the branches of the society in foreign parts,
and answers prepared to them.
Appeals also are heard in various instances, and determined in this
court.
I may mention here two circumstances, that are worthy of notice on these
occasions.
It may be observed that whether such business as that, which I have just
detailed or any of any other sort comes before the yearly meeting at
large, it is decided, not by the influence of numbers, but by the weight
of religious character. As most subjects afford cause for a difference
of opinion, so the Quakers at this meeting are found taking their
different sides of the argument, as they believe it right. Those
however, who are in opposition to any measure, if they perceive by the
turn the debate takes, either that they are going against the general
will, or that they are opposing the sentiments of members of high moral
reputation in the society, give way.
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