These are the general outlines of the system of discipline, as introduced by George Fox.  This system was carried into execution, as he himself had formed it, in his own time.  Additions, however, have been made to it since, as it seemed proper, by the society at large.  In the time of George Fox, it was laid upon every member, as we have seen, to watch over his neighbour for his spiritual welfare.  But in 1698, the society conceiving, that what was the business of every one might eventually become the business of no one, appointed officers, whose particular duty it should be to be overseers of the morals of individuals; thus hoping, that by the general vigilance enjoined by George Fox, which was still to continue, and by the particular vigilance then appointed, sufficient care would be taken of the morals of the whole body.  In the time, again, of George Fox, women had, only their monthly and quarterly meetings for discipline, but it has since been determined, that they should have their yearly meetings equally with the men.  In the time, again, of George Fox, none but the grave members were admitted into the meetings for discipline, but it has been since agreed, that young persons should have the privilege of attending them, and this, I believe, upon the notion, that.  While these meetings would quality them for transacting the business of the society, they might operate as schools far virtue.

This system of discipline, as thus introduced by George Fox, and as thus enlarged by the society afterwards, has not escaped, notwithstanding the loveliness of its theory, the censure of the world.

It has been considered in the first place, as a system of espionage, by which one member is made a spy upon, or becomes an informer against another.  But against this charge it would be observed by the Quakers, that vigilance over morals is unquestionably a Christian duty.  It would be observed again that the vigilance which is exercised in this case, is not with the intention of mischief, as in the case of spies and informers, but with the intention of good.  It is not to obtain money, but to preserve reputation and virtue.  It is not to persecute but to reclaim.  It is not to make a man odious, but to make him more respectable.  It is never an interference with innocence.  The watchfulness begins to be offensive only, where delinquency is begun.

The discipline, again, has been considered as too great an infringement, of the liberty of those, who are brought under it.  Against this the Quakers would contend, that all persona who live in civil society, must give up a portion of their freedom, that more happiness and security may be enjoyed.  So, when men enter into Christian societies, they must part with a little of their liberty for their moral good.