Indeed, nothing so trifling,
ridiculous, or disgusting, occupies their minds. The subjects, that
take up their attention, are of a more solid and useful kind. There is a
dignity, in general, in the Quaker-conversation, arising from the nature
of these subjects, and from the gravity and decorum with which it is
always conducted. It is not to be inferred from hence, that their
conversation is dull and gloomy. There is often no want of
sprightliness, wit, and humour. But then this sprightliness, never
borders upon folly, for all foolish jesting is to be avoided, and it is
always decorous. When vivacity makes its appearance among the Quakers;
it is sensible, and it is uniformly in an innocent and decent dress.
In the company of the Quakers a circumstance sometimes occurs, of so
peculiar a nature, that it cannot be well omitted in this place. It
sometimes happens, that you observe a pause in the conversation. This
pause continues. Surprized at the universal silence now prevailing, you
look round, and find all the Quakers in the room apparently thoughtful.
The history of the circumstance is this. In the course of the
conversation the mind of some one of the persons present has been so
overcome with the weight or importance of it, or so overcome by inward
suggestions or other subjects, as to have given himself up to
meditation, or to passive obedience to the impressions upon his mind.
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