Quaker philately : in which stamps provide the inspiration for reflections on Quaker life and experience

I have enjoyed browsing through Quaker Philately by Hi Doty. It is a collection of occasional pieces which appeared in the newsletter of Concord Friends Meeting, near Philadelphia. The pamphlet was produced to contribute to the marking of the Meeting's three hundred years of existence. Although the

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title suggests this might be a serious study it is, rather, a gathering of well-designed US stamps which have some direct or indirect connection to Quaker history and people. Doty writes: 'Be warned against this little book if thee seeks scholarship or consistency for here is nothing more than space-fillers from Concord's montly newsletter.' He further disavows any serious intent with this: 'Even the thread upon which they are strung, philately, is subterfuge, for I am not a philatelist, but only a Friend so frugal that I wish even a postage stamp to do double duty.'

It is printed on good quality paper, making it a pleasure to hold and there is also a little surprise which may have been left by a previous reader on page thirteen (or it may be a singular gift of colour from the publisher).

Dennis Dorwick

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