Such
subjects, however, cannot enter where Quakers converse with one another.
To avoid tale-bearing and detraction is a lesson inculcated into them in
early youth. The maxim is incorporated into their religion, and of
course follows them through life. It is contained in one of their
queries. This query is read to them in their meetings, and the subject
of it is therefore repeatedly brought to their notice and recollection.
Add to which, that, if a Quaker were to repeat any unfounded scandal,
that operated to the injury of another's character, and were not to give
up the author, or make satisfaction for the same, he would be liable,
by the rules of the society, to be disowned.
I do not mean to assert here, that a Quaker never says a harsh thing of
another man. All, who profess to be, are not Quakers. Subjects of a
scandalous nature may be in introduced by others of another
denomination, in which, if Quakers are present, they may unguardedly
join. But it is certainly true, that Quakers are more upon their guard,
with respect to scandalizing others, than many other people. Nor is this
unlikely to be the case, when we consider that caution in this
particular is required of them by the laws of their religion. It is
certainly true also, that such subjects are never introduced by them,
like those at country tea-tables, for the sole purpose of producing
conversation.
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