Edward Ryder, writing in 1886 of this work, stated: "The following brief essays are designed to indicate both the advance and reaction in the great spiritual movement which occurred in the latter half of the seventeenth century. So rapid was its progress that in a few years England, Scotland, Ireland and the American Colonies were strong tinged with the new doctrines, and several societies had bee planed on the European Continent. The battle for liberty of conscience was fought and won, this time without "carnal weapons." The name given in derision, became a title of respect."In this work, Ryder offers a detailed look at changes going on within the Society of Friends during the 1800s, with attention paid to external relationships as well.This new edition is dedicated to the Friends Meeting of Washington