ad. They were remanded to
Newgate, refusing to pay the fines imposed on them, as a matter of
conscience. Without difficulty, Christison and Wenlock obtained
admittance to them. "Truly, friends, you are hardly dealt with," said
the former, as he shook hands. "We had tyrannical proceedings enough in
the time of the first Charles, but it seems to me that we are even worse
off now. I would that I could collect a band of honest fellows and
rescue you out of this vile den."

"I pray thee, be silent, dear friend," said Mead. "We are here for
conscience sake; and our consciences being right towards God, would
support us under far greater trial."

"Well, well, I suppose you are right," answered Christison; "but it
sorely troubles me to see you here. I came back to England,
understanding that the country was enjoying rest, and prospering under
the new reign; but it seems to me that the rest is more that of wearied
sleep than prosperous tranquillity, and that ere long the people will
revive, and will once more draw the sword to reassert their rights."

"I pray not," said Mead; "but I do pray that those principles which I
have unfolded to thee, old friend, may be promulgated throughout the
length and breadth of England; as it is through them, and them only,
that the country can obtain true rest, and prosper as a Christian people
would desire."

Two days after this, the prisoners were pacing their cell, talking
earnestly on matters seldom discussed within prison walls, when the
turnkey entered.

"Gentlemen," he said, "I bring you news such as may perhaps be
satisfactory. Your fines have been paid, and you are at liberty to
depart from hence. I trust you will not forget the attention and
courtesy with which I have treated you!"

"Verily, knave!" exclaimed Mead, laughing as Quakers were not wont to
laugh, "thou ought to go to Court and push thy fortune there. I would
willingly pay thee for all the attention thou hast shown us, but I fear
thou wouldst not be satisfied with the payment. If I give thee more
than thy deserts, thou wilt be better pleased. Here, take this groat.
Art thou satisfied?"

The turnkey made a wry face, and Mead followed Penn, who had hurried
out, anxious to be free from the prison. On the outside they met
Christison and Wenlock, with several other friends, waiting for them.
Penn hastened to his lodgings to change his dress, requesting Mead to
order horses directly, that he might proceed down