The Clouded Quaker Star: James Nayler

More than three centuries had to elapse before a balanced judgement could be accepted of James Nayler. Formerly a conspicuous figure in Cromwell's army, he took an inspiring part in the foundation of George Fox's Society of Friends until, overworked and exhausted, he made no resistance to the fervour of the hypnotic Martha Simmonds who had seen in him a 'Sign' of the second coming of Christ. Tried in Westminster Hall by what has been known as 'The James Nayler Parliament', he was condemned for blasphemy and savagely punished. Nayler's recovery brought out the utmost resources of the human spirit. This book follows the drama of his life and the clash of character involved in his relationship with George Fox.