The Tryal of William Penn and William Mead

London: J. How in Talbot-Court, 1710. Soft cover. 16p. Stitched spine. Untrimmed edges. In 1670, William Penn (1644-1718) and William Mead (1628-1713) were arrested for violating the Conventicle Act which had passed into law in 1664. According to this act, if five or more persons besides the household were present at any assembly, conventicle or meeting under color of pretense of any exercise of religion in other manner than was allowed by the liturgy or practice of the Church of England would be liable to fines or imprisonment. The story is rather remarkable. Historical records indicate that prisoners conducted themselves with 'unusual boldness'. The jury was refused to find that it was an unlawful assembly. And since the jury maintained the same verdict after two days, they were fined 40 marks which they all refused to pay and were imprisoned. Penn and Mead were fined for contempt of Court. The jury appealed to the Court of Common Pleas and were released. Penn and Mead's fines were paid without their knowledge. See William Mead, Quaker, and his Relations. by Henry Mead. p4-5; See Quaritch Supplement 1855 #9910 'First edition was secretly printed in 1670'. Paper browned in areas throughout due to the paper stock used. Rare. Very Good. Item #008001

8vo - over 7¾ - 9¾" tall.

Price: $600.00