Note 63 — Chapter XIV

William Caton, whose service was much in Holland, died at Amsterdam in 1665. He was one of the earliest associates of George Fox, being convinced by him in 1652, and is often mentioned in the earlier part of this Journal. He was not only a literary man, but zealous for religion; and being of a courteous and affable disposition, was in general esteem. When about fourteen years of age he went to reside in Judge Fell’s family at Swarthmore Hall, as a companion for his son, sharing with him, both in instruction and recreation. He was very early inclined to religion, and, as he grew in years, he advanced in godliness.

After joining Friends, he travelled considerably as a gospel minister, and underwent many sufferings for Christ’s sake. At Maidstone, in 1654, he and another Friend were stripped, their necks and arms put in the stocks, and, in that condition, they were desperately whipped. At Yarmouth he was, with seven other Friends, taken from a religious meeting on the first day of the week, and confined six months in prison.

A valuable collection of letters of early Friends was met with at Swarthmore some years ago, written nearly throughout by William Caton, and appears to have been intended by him for publication. It has a title page, dated Swarthmore, 23rd of 6th Month, 1659; and a preface signed by himself, dated 7th of 2nd Month, 1660. The life of Caton, George Fox mentions as having been printed, was re-published in 1839, by John Barclay, forming one of the Select Series, to which the reader is referred for further particulars.