of the burthen, in which the prosperity of Zion is so deeply concerned. I bless God most fervently, that they are aroused to see and feel, and exert themseves in this precious work. I consider it as a token for good, and am so far from discouraging their efforts, that I wish them God speed, and pray the sentiment may take deep root, and excite through all our churches an ardent zeal, which, if directed by knowledge, will, I am persuaded, be acceptable to the great Redeemer, and productive of much good. It is a high and noble object; but the time in which it commences, and the point to which it seems to be directed, are to me dark and inexplicable. I could explain what I mean by this, but it would be premature." "It will suffice to observe, that after an institution is already established, it requires great prudence and caution to oppose it. The best of causes may, by precipitation or rashness, be essentially marred. To do too much, may sometimes be worse than to do too little. Every step will require mature deliberation, and nothing positive with respect to the ultimate location, ought to be immediately adopted. The subject, in all its bearings, is interesting in the highest degree to the peace of the Churches, and very important to myself; but unless I know more of the progress and precise object of your friendly consultations, or until my advice be requested, it would be an improper anticipation to suggest any particular idea or sentiment. " "The Lord bless you both, with your dear children, and give you precious answers to prayer. I bless you, and am, “I. L. Kip.” 66 Dear Sir, Your faithful friend and servant, "New-Brunswick, Sep. 11th, 1813. My dear Sir, "It gives me pleasure to observe in your last esteemed favour, that the sentiments I expressed respecting the theological institution, met with your unequivocal approbation." "It is a great object, and has engaged my attention and prayers many years. After the deranged state in which the business had been brought, by the destructive resolutions of the General Synod, in 1797, and while there was not an individual who appeared in a series of years, to think upon the subject, or assist cordially, in devising any measures for its benefit, I was encouraged by the overtures made by the Trustees of this College, and hoped the dawn was opening, which would bring on the day for which we had so long waited. No objections were then made, and as all concurred in fixing the institution in this place, I considered it to be the direction of Providence, and concluded I was going the right way when I came." "There is, indeed, room for amendments; and the future security of the institution, renders it necessary, in its present state, to draw such broad lines, as will prevent every species of intrusion, and secure the essential point, and the perfect superintendence, for ever, in the hands of the General Synod." "The Churches supposed they did what was right in fixing upon this place, and I thought I did what was right in coming here; yet it is possible that we were all wrong; but it is also possible that after all, it will be seen we have done exactly what ought to be done. As to the location of the institution in New-York, with all the advantages, which in theory appear plausible, there may be dangers, which, at the present moment, excite no apprehension; but at a day not very distant, might prove exceeding formidable. It is said, that in the ocean the large fishes devour the small, and it is certain that upon the land, something like this is often realized. We are, perhaps, in the safest situation when we remain alone, without the collision of jarring interests, or aspiring competitors;—in waters where no sharks can pursue us." "I now indulge the hope, that the time to favour Zion, yea, the set time is come, because the servants of the Lord begin to take pleasure in her stones, and favour the dust thereof. The meetings you have had will serve very important purposes, and greatly interest the Churches in this great work. I am happy that men of prudence, as well as zeal, are active members with you. Under such influence, with the blessing of the Lord, I am confident nothing rash will be adopted, but much good will be produced." * * * * "Mercies rest upon you, and all yours, always. I bless you, and am "Your affectionate and faithful friend, "I. L. Kip, Esq." "J. H. LIVINGSTON. Toward the close of the following year, the Doctor experienced a most painful affliction in the death of his excellent wife. They had lived together, in the greatest harmony and love, for nearly forty years-and she did not die unwept. He felt and mourned his loss; but, at the same time, displayed under it the faith, and fortitude, and resignation of a saint, ripe himself for a transition to a better world, where the pangs of separation from souls congenial-where death, and sorrow, and crying, shall be known no more. On the morning of the day when her remains were to be interred, he sat down, and wrote his friend, Mr. Kip, the subjoined letter: New-Brunswick, Dec. 30, 1814. "My dear Friend, "It is done. The conflict is over. She has obtained the victory, and is entered into rest. On Sunday morning, Mrs. Livingston was seized with a pain in her head, which increased, and soon became very violent. She laid down, and was much indisposed, but no symptoms that produced any alarm, appeared before Tuesday, when her strength appeared to be wholly prostrated, and she sunk into a deep sleep, with intermediate agitations and struggles, without however being aroused from her lethargy. In the evening of Wednesday, it was evident her departure was at hand, and, without another struggle or groan, she gradually and |