Mother Ann and the Elders arrived at Ashfield, Massachusetts, about the 1st of November 1782. As this was a central place, and convenient for the resort of the Believers from different quarters, and less liable to be disturbed by mobs and riots, Mother felt a gift to take up her residence here during the approaching winter; and to give a general liberty for the Believers to come and see her. Accordingly, great numbers resorted here during the winter, from all parts where the gospel had been planted. More than sixty sleights, and six hundred people, were there at one time.

2. During this season the power of God was manifested in a marvelous manner; extraordinary operations of the power and gifts of God, and violent wars of the spirit against the flesh were ministered, through Mother, to the people. The voice of Mother and the Elders against the filthy, fallen nature of the flesh, was like the roaring of thunder. Every heart was searched, and every rein tried, which caused great purging and purifying among the people.

3. Here, Michael and his angels fought against the dragon and his angels; and so mighty was the noise of the battle that many, coming from abroad, were often seized with fear and trembling at a great distance; for the sound thereof was like the roaring of many waters, driven by mighty winds; and so great and powerful were the operations that it seemed as though Heaven and Hell had each engaged their forces to contend for mastery.