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Elizabeth Fry
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?The little Frys found the hours very long when they sat in the large, rather austere drawing-room, trying not to fidget, while their mother read aloud to them long chapters from the Bible or from books of instruction.?
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'I feel very unworthy this morning. Though the day appeared to begin well in a few words of solemn supplication after reading. Yesterday I think I was too much off my watch ... So I felt this morning at reading unwilling to take up the cross'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'Enabled publicly after "Reading" to cast my care upon our Henry Helper'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'Yesterday I was enabled after reading to cast my care wholly and publicly upon the great helper of the helpless, in which I found peace'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
Elizabeth Fry : [Journal]
'I have been reading over an old journal book. Ah saith my soul, how has the loving kindness and tender mercy of the Almighty been manifested to me'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Manuscript: Codex
[n/a] : 2 Corinthians
'A chapter we read this morning tendered my spirit and raised it in aspirations to the God of my help. Describing by what a minister ought to prove himself a minister of God these two verses particularly took hold of me - "By pureness, by knowledge, by long suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left"'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Psalms)
'The 40th and 42nd Psalms spoke comfort to me this morning, and I may say they greatly expressed the language of my spirit'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Esther)
'Having poured forth my soul in prayer, and having exhorted my household to live in the love and fear of the Lord, I have attained some mental relief upon entering a New Year and finishing another. And upon opening my Bible at these words so consonant with the feelings of my heart that I quote them here - "Hear my prayer and be merciful unto thine inheritance; turn our sorrow into joy that we may live oh Lord and praise thy name"'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'I told no one my state until about the time to get up. I then dressed. I felt bound to have my husband, children, my dear sister Elizabeth Gurney, Susan Pitchford as such maids as liked to join us, collected together. Doctor Sims was also with us. When after reading I poured forth my soul in [underline] fervent prayer [end underline] for my [underline] dearest Rachel [end underline] and myself, as to our time of conflict, for help spiritually, and [underline] naturally [end underline] for tender mercy'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Deuteronomy)
'Upon reading the 2nd Chap. in Deuteronomy I felt this verse so much the acknowledgement of my heart, though all the works of my hands, may not yet have appeared to be fully blessed, yet in many, may I not say [underline] most [end underline], a peculiar blessing has I think rested on them. I transcribe here, from Deuteronomy 2: verse 7 "For the Lord thy God have blessed thee in all the works of thy hand. He knoweth thy walking through this great wilderness these forty years, these forty years the Lord thy God has been with thee. Thou hast lacked nothing.'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Ecclesiastes)
'These words in Eccles. struck me much. Ch. II v 21 & 22: "Marvel not at the works of sinners, but trust in the Lord and abide in thy labour, for it is one easy thing in the sight of the Lord, to make a poor man rich"'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'I paid a very interesting visit to two female convict ships with my dear sister E. Fry and cousin Sarah last 6th day, and met William Wilberforce and Sophie Vansittart and many others. The exercise of my mind was deep, and the trial of body not inconsiderable from the inconvenient situation that I had to read in, being below deck, surrounded by poor prisoners, and the company. What I feel on such occasions is difficult to describe. 1st that it should be done unto the Lord, and 2nd that it may be a time of edification. 3rd that none may in any way be hurt by it. 4th my natural great fear of man, and of his judgement. 5th that self may neither glory if helped, nor be unduly mortified if causes for humiliation arise. I think I was on this occasion much helped to declare Gospel Truth with some power, and to pray to my Lord; but I felt that if watchful enough and patient enough, I might have said much more to a good purpose. But it may be safer to say too little, than too much. After this was over I saw a change in the feeling of the company towards me. They were so much more loving: I believe some of their hearts were tendered. I think it was a uniting time, I trust many of the poor prisoners felt it also, many of them I believe wept in both ships.'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'The first day before leaving home I must also describe if I can. It was one of the most interesting nature. In the first place I had [underline] all [end underline] the servants collected at the morning reading, and expressed very fully my desires for them'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'My sisters Catherine, Rachel, Chenda and myself had a very remarkable morning, I felt most easy to stay at home from Meeting to be with my beloved sick sister, and had a desire for some religious time with her. After she was dressed and removed into the Dressing Room on her couch, we read in the Bible, but so overcome was she from weakness and sleepiness, that she could not keep awake, however I went on reading, and then knelt down in prayer and thanksgiving for her and for us'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'On the morning of the New Year we assembled almost all our large household, and many guests, principally young ones. Before we began reading, I expressed many of the striking marks of Providential care and mercy shown us in the last year, that are mentioned here. We then read, and afterwards had a solemn time.'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'I then went to town, and at Newgate, where I went under feelings of rather deep concern, found unexpectedly [underline] numbers [end underline] there. A magistrate who I feared not I believe a religious man, I doubt a Christian, numbers of others, foreigners, a Jew, a clergyman, [underline] many [end underline] ladies, friends, my brother Sam, who strange to say, I stand in awe of naturally in such services, kind, dear and sympathetic as he is to me. I think I may say I asked in secret for preservation before I began to read; at least it was my earnest desire to have my eyes kept single to my God: but either the fear of man got too much hold of me, or the [underline] unction [end underline] was not with me, that I did not feel the power of truth over us, as it very often has been at such times, and I am ready to believe if I had not looked at man, but dwelt yet deeper in spirit I should have had to call upon the Lord openly, and I should have found help and power in it. But I went away humbled...'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
Elizabeth Fry : Journals
'I have lately been reading some of my old journals in the year 1801. It has been very affecting to me; In what a low state I was, and how much I passed through, unbelief has been ready to say how was it such a poor young creature in a spritual sense should have been permitted such conflict in my first lying-in, after my marriage, etc.'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Manuscript: Codex
[n/a] : Bible (Colossians)
'We spent a cheerful, sober evening, until a general family Reading, when several joined our interesting party. We read the principal parts of the Epistle to the Colossians; and for all I had already so much to do, I felt bound to kneel down and offer an evening sacrifice'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'Last sixth day a very interesting time at Newgate, numbers there, clergy, some nobility, a sheriff, [underline] many [end underline] ladies, gentlemen and friends. It was a solemn time, the fear of man much taken away; I had after Reading to speak to them, and pray for them'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
C.H.V. Bogatsky : Golden Treasury for the Children of God
'I felt low and naturally prone to be irritable, and from the deep feeling of the difficulties in doing my part towards my family, led me to pant for liberation from those responsibilities which at times lie very heavily upon me. In this state I opened a book with something for every day in the year and met with something applicable to my wants that I shall transcribe it - "Golden Treasury for the Children of God" is the title of the book by C.H.V. Bogatsky: "Lord preserve me calm in spirit, gentle in my commands and watchful that I speak not unadvisably with my lips; moderate in my purposes, yielding in my temper where the honour of my God is not immediately concerned and ever steadfast where needful. "Lord grant me thy protection, and may thy blessing be upon me, that I may not bring an evil report upon that good Lord. I was permitted to spy out; but walk honourably through the wilderness and pass triumphantly over Jordan into Canaan. Amen."'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Corinthians)
'Our wedding day twenty nine years since we married! My texts for the morning are applicable: "Our light affliction which is but for a moment worketh for us a far more exceeding and external weight of glory"; "We walk by faith and not by sight"'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'In the evening our dear brother Buxton dined with us, and spent the evening; and after our Reading I had to return thanks for the help granted in the day, and to pray'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'The last time I parted with those in the Ship Mary such a scene all around me, when I parted from them, probably for ever; so many tears, so much feeling, as I read, etc, and almost all present were the low, and the poor.'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'My spirit is however brought low before the Lord, on behalf of some most dear - ah, the unutterable conflict that giving way to evil produces in ourselves and others. And for one I feel so inexpressibly for, I found consolation and hope in these parts of Scripture...'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Psalms)
'We have been favoured the last two days to have all our fifteen children around us ... After dinner we walked a little and then had tea, and after tea a number of the children sang in company some of our old Earlham songs and ended with two hymns. We were then silent and read the 103rd Psalm, and I spoke earnestly to my children impressing them with the importance, now that most of them were no longer under our restraint, that they should be conformed to the will of God'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Proverbs)
'dined at Lord Bexley's, afterwards led to many fears - worry about showing off - But a few words in the Proverbs encouraged me "Reproofs of instruction are the way of life" chap 6 v.23. I see it well to be reproved, may I profit by it.'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Psalms)
'I returned from Brighton the day before yesterday having felt a drawing of love to visit the Friends; and to attend to the difficulties of the District Society. I went [underline] quite alone [end underline], and yet not alone because I believe my master was with me. I had amongst the Friends some weighty, close service, some very encouraging. My way appeared curiously opened in the hearts of the people and I hope and trust the valued District Society will be continued. I had about a hundred visitors to meet me, and read the 100th Psalm: and prayed for them, and the Society, and strongly pressed the importance of different Christians working together, and of unity of spirit'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Psalms)
'[came home to find one of her sons drinking ale with some men with fireworks] I slept only at short intervals, up and down all night, in the morning shaken and jaded. But I had my poor wanderer in my little room, read part of the 51st Psalm; earnestly prayed for him, exhorted, reproved, but all in tender love: he was humbled, very sorry, very affectionate, entire peace was made between us'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
Elizabeth Fry : Journal
'New Years Day - fourteen children to dine with us - had meant to read them my concentrated journal of the year; but courage failed me ... Since, I have read my journal to almost all of them who are round us'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Manuscript: Codex
[n/a] : Bible
'And in the evening strength was given me with a very large party to speak a little on the subject of slavery and then finished with a short lively Scripture reading'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Isaiah)
'Last evening we had more than fifty guests, some influential persons of this world, young and old, French and English - one Spaniard, two Americans. We first had the subject of slavery brought before us, for rather more than an hour ... I finished with a Scripture reading, referring to the subject that had been brought before us; the first part of the 61st chapter of Isaiah. "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me" etc and a portion in Luke where our Lord brings it forward. I felt a real unction I believe I may say from the spirit, to speak such words as I had to say, with power.'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'In the evening we had many young women but hardly any men. Our great object was to stimulate them in every good word and work. We ended with a reading in the Holy Scriptures'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'We had a large meeting at one of the pasteurs at Aix en Provance the few Protestants there and their Pastor requested me to have a reading with them, which we had, but in this instance I had only my husband and Josiah to interpret which does not fully answer, but I thought we had a uniting time with them'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'At Nismes we found a large party at one of the Pasteurs, where we had some further conversation on District Societies, Prisons, etc and ended with a Scripture reading'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'I also had a serious reading of the Holy Scriptures with many English, who came to see us at our hotel, and a time of prayer'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'We were sent for to visit Prince and Princess Charles and their children and paid them an agreeable and I hope not unprofitable visit. The Crown Prince and Princess sent for us again; after much conversation upon many subjects I asked them to allow me to read a portion of Holy Scriptures with them, which gave me an opportunity for weightly religious communication with them'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'I had then to enter a drawing room full of company to receive numbers of foreigners, and our ambassador Lord William Russell, and many others in and out. After some went away we had a solemn time of Scripture reading and prayer'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'In the evening we had a very large party to our reading and worship. I should think nearly a hundred persons ... we had a very solemn time after our reading in the morning at Antwerp, the last reading we had of this kind'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Psalms)
'After breakfast, I believed it better to propose reading in the Bible, but I felt doing it, particularly as my brother William was here; not liking the appearance of young people, like us, appearing to profess more than they who had lived here before us. However, I put off and put off till both William and Joseph went down; I then felt uneasy under it, and when Joseph came back, I told him, as I did before, what I wished; he at last sat down, having told George Dilwyn my desire. I began to read the 46th Psalm, but was so overcome that I could hardly read, and gave it to Joseph to finish.'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'I again felt some difficulty at reading the Bible, however, I got through well. George Dilwyn encouraging me, by saying he thought I portioned the reading well.'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'George Dilwyn said, for our encouragement this morning, that he had seen, since he had been with us, the efficacy of reading in the Bible the first thing: he thought it a good beginning for the day'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'I was up in pretty good time, dressed by eight, and after reading, settled my great housekeeping accounts'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : [unknown, possibly Bible]
'After reading a little, I went some way off to see a poor woman'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
Frederick Smith : [unknown]
'Yesterday I went to the workhouse to spend the evening with the children; a prospect I have had in view for some time... I took them things for tea: I dreaded going on many accounts, fearing I should not feel at liberty to make any remarks I might wish to the children during their reading which it was my principal object in going to attend. I did not exactly see my way, however, I thought I would (as the Friends say) make my way. I found after tea they did not read till nearly eight, and I could not remain later than a little past seven. I spoke to the governess about it and she was quite willing to alter the hour, and so was the stewardess. I proposed reading a little pamphlet that has lately come out by Frederick Smith to the children. There was a solemnity during reading it; so that Ann Withers was in tears most of the time, and some of the children were disposed that way; afterwards, when we had finished, I endeavoured to weigh up whether I really had any thing to say to them or not; I thought that I had, and therefore took up the book as if to explain it; making my own remarks which appeared to affect the children and the governess so that those who were on the point of tears really wept. Now this event has made me feel rather odd; it is marvellous to me how I got courage to do it before Ann Withers.'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'In the evening, after reading at Earlham, I was greatly helped in prayer, for my brothers and sisters, who were all present'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (New Testament)
'After poor John's funeral, I wished the servants, and those who attended, and were disposed to do so, to come and read with us, believing it might afford opportunity for relief, if any thing were given me for them. The party were in all about forty, many young people, and others. We first read two chapters in Matthew; after a pause, I kelt down and had to supplicate, first for all the party; afterwards for our own household, more particularly for the servants; in all which I was helped, and a very solemn silence followed'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'Yesterday I experienced liveliness of spirit, without any apparent cause; nothing but free mercy and grace, for I think, as far as I was concerned, I was rather rebellious after reading than otherwise'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'At last I have been enabled to accomplish my desire in having the greater part of our family here, present at the Scripture reading in the morning, it has been to me a very humbling thing, and I may say trying'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (New Testament)
Dec 1816 - Fry recommences visits to Newgate prison: 'On her second visit, she was, at her own request, left alone amongst the women for some hours, and on that occasion, she read to them the parable of the Lord in the vineyard, in the 20th chapter of St Matthew; and made a few observations on the eleventh hour, and on Christ having come to save sinners, even those who might be said to have wasted the greater part of their lives estranged from Him. Some asked who Christ was; others feared that their day of salvation was passed.'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Psalms)
ms journal of Sophia de C-, one of the ladies of the visiting Society for Newgate, entry dated 2 May 1817: 'Rose early and visited Newgate where most of the Committee met to receive the Lord Mayor, the Sheriffs, several Aldermen, among whom were Sir William Curtis, Atkins and some of the Gaol Committee ... The women were assembled as usual, looking particularly clean, and Elizabeth Fry had commenced reading a Psalm, when the whole of this party entered this already crowded room. Her reading was thus interrupted for a short time. She looked calmly on the approaching gentlemen, who, soon perceiving the solemnity of her occupation, stood against the multitude; whilst Elizabeth Fry resumed her office, and the women their quietude; and in an impressive tone told them, she never permitted any trifling circumstance to interrupt the very solemn and important engagement of reading the Holy Scriptures ... The usual silence ensued after the reading, then the women withdrew. We could not help feeling particularly glad that the gentlemen were present at this reading'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
Fry explains reading to prisoners to Committee of House of Commons on the Prisons of the Metropolis, 27 Feb 1818: 'our habit is constantly to read the Scriptures to them twice a day; many of them are taught, and some of them have been enabled to read a little themselves; it has an astonishing effect: I never saw the Scriptures received in the same way, and to many of them they have been entirely new, both the great system of religion and of morality contained in them; and it has been very satisfactory to observe the effect on their minds; when I have sometimes gone and said it was my intention to read, they would flock upstairs after me, as if it were a great pleasure, I had to afford them'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'The last time that Mrs Fry was on board the Maria, whilst she lay at Deptford, was one of those solemn and interesting occasions that leave a lasting impression on the minds of those who witness them. There was a great uncertainty whether the poor convicts would see their benefactress again. She stood at the door of the cabin, attended by her friends and the Captain; the women on the quarter-deck facing them. The sailors, anxious to see what was going on, clambered into the rigging, on to the capstan, or mingled in the outskirts of the group. The silence was profound - when Mrs Fry opened her Bible, and in a clear audible voice, read a portion from it. The crews of the other vessels in the tier, attracted by the novelty of the scene, lent over the ships on either side and listened apparently with great attention; she closed the Bible, and after a short pause, knelt down on the deck, and implored a blessing on this work of Christian charity from that God, who, though one may sow and another water, can alone give the increase. Many of the women wept bitterly, all seemed touched'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Ephesians)
Extract of letter from Lady Mackintosh to E. Fry: 'I have had a note from Sir James - "I dined Saturday, June 3rd, at Devonshire House. The company consisted of the Duke of Norfolk, Lords Lansdowne, Lauderdale, Albermarle, Cowper, Hardwicke, Carnarvon, Sefton, Ossulton, Milton and Duncannon. The subject was Mrs Fry's exhortation to forty-five female convicts, at which Lord -- had been present on Friday. He could hardly refrain from tears in speaking of it. He called it the deepest tragedy he had ever witnessed. What she had read and expounded to the convicts, with almost miraculous effect, was the 4th chapter to the Ephesians.'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Psalms)
Recollections of Miss Young, who accompanied her father, Captain Young, to female convict ships at Woolwich: 'On board between two and three hundred women were assembled, in order to listen to the exhortation and prayers of, perhaps, the two brightest personifications of Christian philanthropy that the age could boast. Scarcely could two voices, even so distinguished for beauty and power be imagined, united in a more touching engagement: as indeed was intensified by the breathless attention, the tears and suppressed sobs of the gathered listeners. All of man's word however there heard, heart-stirring as it was at the time, has faded from my memory; but no lapse of time can ever efface the impression of the 107th Psalm, as read by Mrs Fry, with such extraordinary emphasis and intonation that it seemed to make the simple reading a commentary; and, as she passed from passage to passage, struck my youthful mind, as if the whole series of allusions may have been written by the pen of inspiration, in view of such a scene as was then before us. At an interval of twenty years, it is recalled to me as often as that Psalm is brought to my notice. Never in this world, can it be known to how many hearts its solemn appeals were that day carried home by that potent voice'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Psalms)
Journal 20 Dec 1837: 'Afterwards I went to Clapham to visit a poor dying converted Jew, who had sent a letter to beg me to go and see him ... A man of pleasing countenance, greatly emaciated, was lying on a little white bed; all clean and in order, his Bible by his side, and animated almost beyond description at seeing me; he kissed my hand, the tears came into his eyes, his poor face flushed, and he was ready almost to raise himself out of his bed. I sat down, and tried to quiet him, and by degrees succeeded. We had a very interesting conversation; he had been in the practice of frequently attending my readings at Newgate, apparently with great attention; latterly I had not seen him, and was ready to suppose, that like many others his zeal was of short duration; but I lately heard that he had been ill ... I found that when he used to come so often to Newgate, he was a man of good moral character, seeking the truth ... he said that his visits to Newgate had been to him beyond going to any church; indeed I little know how much was going on in his heart. He requested me to read a Psalm that I had read one day in Newgate, the 107th. This I did, and he appeared to deeply feel it'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
Journal 20 Dec 1837: 'Afterwards I went to Clapham to visit a poor dying converted Jew, who had sent a letter to beg me to go and see him ... A man of pleasing countenance, greatly emaciated, was lying on a little white bed; all clean and in order, his Bible by his side, and animated almost beyond description at seeing me; he kissed my hand, the tears came into his eyes, his poor face flushed, and he was ready almost to raise himself out of his bed. I sat down, and tried to quiet him, and by degrees succeeded. We had a very interesting conversation; he had been in the practice of frequently attending my readings at Newgate, apparently with great attention; latterly I had not seen him, and was ready to suppose, that like many others his zeal was of short duration; but I lately heard that he had been ill ... I found that when he used to come so often to Newgate, he was a man of good moral character, seeking the truth ... he said that his visits to Newgate had been to him beyond going to any church; indeed I little know how much was going on in his heart. He requested me to read a Psalm that I had read one day in Newgate, the 107th. This I did, and he appeared to deeply feel it'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
Joseph John Gurney : Letter to a Friend on the Authority, Purpose and Effects of Chritianity
Journey into Scotland in Aug 1834 with husband and two daughters: 'At Kenmore, they enjoyed a quiet Sunday and tolerable highland accommodation. In the evening, anxious to turn the day to some good account, Mrs Fry invited the servants of the inn, to attend the reading she intended to have with her own family. Some ladies were polite enough to offer the use of their sitting room as it was more roomy; a large congregation of barefooted chambermaids, and blue-bonnetted hostlers, assembled. She read part of her brother Joseph John Gurney's letter to a Friend, on the evidences of Christianity; the people were very attentive and anxious each to possess a copy, that they might read the remainder of the book to themselves. The next day, some gamekeepers who came to the inn requested a similar gift, having heard from the people there all that had taken place.'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
Journal of Miss Fraser, Newgate prison visitor, dated 29 Nov 1834: 'I spent an interesting time in Newgate, Mrs Fry and I went there together for several hours. She went with me to the cells and read to the men just sentenced to death. Amongst them, there were two brothers, convicted, I believe, for housebreaking. The youngest was drawn into the commission of the crime by the elder brother. James, the youngest, could not read; he was married to a very pleasing looking young woman, and had two children. I recollect Mrs Fry told the poor men who could not read that if they would try to learn while they were in Newgate, she would give those who succeeded, each a Bible. James took very great pains, and before he left the prison to be transported he could read tolerably. On the 7th of January following, Mrs Fry again went with me to the cells. James then read the 7th chapter of St Matthew's gospel, and received his Bible. He became a valuable servant to the gentleman to whom he was assigned in New South Wales'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : [unknown]
Visit to France, 1838, accompanied by Joseph Fry, friend Josiah Forster, and Lydia Irving. Letter to children, Abbeville, 28 Jan 1838: 'We left Boulogne yesterday morning in a very comfortable French carraige after some delay in our departure, from various difficulties with luggage, we enjoyed our reading and conversation, until we arrived at Montreuil ... After breakfast we read as usual, then Josiah Forster went out ... picture us - our feet on some fleeces that we have found, generally wrapped up in cloaks, surrounded by screens to keep off the air, the wood fire at our feet. We have just finished an interesting reading in French, in the New Testament, with the landlady, her daughters and some of the servants of the hotel; they appeared very attentive and much interested'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
Visit to France, 1838, accompanied by Joseph Fry, friend Josiah Forster, and Lydia Irving. Letter to children, Abbeville, 28 Jan 1838: 'We left Boulogne yesterday morning in a very comfortable French carraige after some delay in our departure, from various difficulties with luggage, we enjoyed our reading and conversation, until we arrived at Montreuil ... After breakfast we read as usual, then Josiah Forster went out ... picture us - our feet on some fleeces that we have found, generally wrapped up in cloaks, surrounded by screens to keep off the air, the wood fire at our feet. We have just finished an interesting reading in French, in the New Testament, with the landlady, her daughters and some of the servants of the hotel; they appeared very attentive and much interested'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (New Testament)
Visit to France, 1838, accompanied by Joseph Fry, friend Josiah Forster, and Lydia Irving. Letter to children, Abbeville, 28 Jan 1838: 'We left Boulogne yesterday morning in a very comfortable French carraige after some delay in our departure, from various difficulties with luggage, we enjoyed our reading and conversation, until we arrived at Montreuil ... After breakfast we read as usual, then Josiah Forster went out ... picture us - our feet on some fleeces that we have found, generally wrapped up in cloaks, surrounded by screens to keep off the air, the wood fire at our feet. We have just finished an interesting reading in French, in the New Testament, with the landlady, her daughters and some of the servants of the hotel; they appeared very attentive and much interested'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
Aug 1838, journey to Scotland with sister in law E. Fry, friend John Sanderson, and from 15th, William Ball, a Quaker minister. Mr Ball kept a journal during the journey. 18 Aug 1838: 'These journeys are, I trust, not lost time; we have two Scripture readings daily in the carriage, and much instructive conversation; also abundant time for that which is so important, the private reading of the Holy Scripture. This is very precious to dear Elizabeth Fry, and I have often thought it a privilege to note her reverent "marking and learning" of these sacred truths of divine inspiration. Often does she lay down the Book, close her eyes, and wait upon Him, who hath the key of David to open and seal the instruction of the sacred page. Truly it helps to explain how her "profiting appears unto all" when she is thus diligent and fervent, in "meditating upon these things", and giving herself wholly to them'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Psalms)
Aug 1838, journey to Scotland with sister in law E. Fry, friend John Sanderson, and from 15th, William Ball, a Quaker minister. Mr Ball kept a journal during the journey. 23 Aug 1838 - large meeting of ladies to form a society for visiting prisons of Aberdeen and vicinity: 'Between the formation of the association, and proceeding to select the various officers, Elizabeth Fry read a Psalm, spoke very nicely upon it to the ladies, and was then engaged in prayer'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
Aug 1838, journey to Scotland with sister in law E. Fry, friend John Sanderson, and from 15th, William Ball, a Quaker minister. Mr Ball kept a journal during the journey. 8 Sept 1838: 'Invited the landlord of our Greenock Hotel, and his wife, and servants, to our Scripture reading this morning. They came in and we were favoured with an instructive session'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
Journal, Boulogne 28 May 1843: 'The afternoon of the Sabbath I paid a distressing visit to the St Lazare Prison; such a scene of disorder and deep evil I have seldom witnessed - gambling, romping, screaming. With much difficulty we collected four Protestant prisoners, and read with them. I spoke to those poor disorderly women, who appeared attentive, and showed some feeling.'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (Old Testament)
Evidence of E. Fry to parliamentary Select Committee - Fry explains that she is careful in her prison readings to have a regard to the feelings of the women. For instance, on one occasion a Jewess objected to religious instruction provided by the ladies: 'On account of our reading in the New Testament. Afterwards she came and we endeavoured to adapt the reading a little to her, we reading the Psalms and a portion of the Old Testament'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (New Testament)
Day on which E. Fry read the new rules to the female prisoners at Newgate: 'when this business was concluded, one of the visitors read aloud the 15th chapter of Luke - the parable of the barren fig tree, seeming applicable to the audience'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
Officials invited into Newgate to see the success of E. Fry's new prison routine: 'In compliance with this appointment, the Lord Mayor, the Sheriffs and several of the Aldermen attended. The prisoners were assembled together, and it being requested that no alteration in their usual practice might take place, one of the ladies read a chapter in the Bibe, and then the females proceeded to their various avocations. Their attention during the time of reading; their orderly and sober deportment, their decent dress, the absence of everything like tumult, noise or contention, the obedience, and the respect shown by them, and the cheerfulness visible in their countenances and manners, conspired to excite the astonishment and admiration of their visitors'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible
'in expressing our acknowledgement of the good they have done, it is our duty to point out those parts of their proceedings which appear to us inexpedient and injudicious, and to interfere materially with the laudable objects which they themselves have in view. We think the introduction of the visitors who now attend on Fridays the readings of the women highly improper. On one occasion, when we were present, there were 23 visitors; whilst owing to the want of room thus caused, only 28 prisoners could attend the lecture. Not only were there many prisoners, who might otherwise have been present, thus deprived of this opportunity of receiving instruction, but the sight of so many strangers distracted the attention even of those who were there. We observed the absence of that strict attention which is so necessary to the profitable reception of religious instruction.'
Century: 1800-1849 Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Fry Print: Book
[n/a] : Bible (New Testament)
24pp pamphlet describing a reading by Mrs Fry to the female prisoners at Newgate, at which the author was present. pp.8-9: 'The silence was at length broken by that mild voice which the prisoners had often heard. Mrs Fry began to read from the Bible. She had selected the 12th and 13th chapters of the epistle to the Romans. This selection did honour to her judgement, and while, with distinct articulation, she dwelt upon the more important of the words of Holy writ, every hearer appeared affected. The convicts shewed their interest in the instruction thus afforded them by the eye fixed on the reader, and their anxiety by heads put, as it were, forward to meet the sound, while the eye had the tear quivering on the lash, or the cheek shewed that it had overflowed its bounds. When she had finished the chapters which she had read slowly, to give time to the hearers to receive the words, and to comprehend their meaning, she remained for a few seconds perfectly silent, and the silence was a silence which might be felt.'
