Page:The part taken by women in American history.djvu/43



The Guiding Hand of Deity, as in all things, can be seen in the ultimate landing of the Pilgrims at Plymouth, New England.

The persecutions inflicted by the bishops and zealots upon dissenters from the mother church, who were denominated "Separatists" caused them to seek a new field where they hoped to be allowed to worship God according to the dictates of their own consciences.

After many unsuccessful attempts, they finally left England, in 1608, and took up their abode in Amsterdam, Holland. There are many conflicting traditions and reports as to the welcome they received in Dutchland. There was, beyond question, disinclination on the part of the Ruler and the people to extend to them cordial hospitality, lest the friendly relations might be interrupted between England and Holland. They were, however, allowed to remain at Amsterdam until, of their own volition, they removed to Leyden, the principal manufacturing town of the Netherlands. They hoped by this change to better their condition and secure employment for the artisans among them who had had training and experience in the factories in England. They endured unspeakable hardships, disappointments and the loss of many of their numbers in Holland. They had gained little but respite from persecution by leaving their homes in England.

Their saintly Bishop, John Robinson by name, hoped that at Leyden, with more lucrative resources, through the possibility of securing employment, they might eventually obtain