Paul's Speech to the Bishop of Crete: Or, the Ancient Christians Principle, Or Rule of Good Living, ... Set Forth by Answers to Nine Weighty Questions. By Hugh Turford

Hugh Turford, an English Quaker writer, authored this instructional text during a period when the Religious Society of Friends was working to define its theological stance and guide its members toward a simplified, pious life. The work, originally appearing in the late 17th century, served as a didactic bridge between biblical historical figures—specifically the Apostle Paul and Titus, the Bishop of Crete—and the practical, everyday expectations of Quaker discipline.

The text is structured as a series of nine weighty questions, a common format for Quaker tracts of the era intended to distill complex religious philosophy into manageable, daily practice. Turford’s writing is characterized by the plain style favored by 17th-century nonconformists, prioritizing clarity and moral adherence over ornamental prose. It saw numerous reprints throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, reflecting its enduring utility within the movement as a foundational guide for those seeking to uphold the 'ancient principles' of Christian conduct.