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Travels in Some Parts of North America, in the Years 1804, 1805, & 1806, by Robert Sutcliff

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of age. In the gallery he commonly wears a dark coloured cotton cap, fitting closely to his head, and over his shoulders a long dark coloured cloak. Notwithstanding his singular appearance, he is not less remarkable in his manner when exercised in the gallery. He uses considerable action and gesticulation, and his sentiments, in general, are almost a continual exposition of the Mosaic Law, with references to the counterpart in the Gospel dispensation, which he explains in a way that I never heard equalled; and with a volubility of expression, and quickness of recollection, that are astonishing to a stranger. 6th Month, 29th. I this morning paid a visit to J. J. and his wife, at their habitation. This family, with many others I have met with, contra- dict a notion which prevails in England, That the Americans are generally short lived. The husband is in his 95th year, and his wife in her 89th year. One of his sisters is of the same age, and another sister is in her 85th year; and all of them may, from every appearance, live some years longer. J. J. told me, that he had often heard his father speak of his having seen the foundation laid of the first house that was built in Philadelphia; and I understood that he was one of William Penn's most intimate friends. I spent this evening at B. J.'s country residence. This house, which is substantial and well built,