LIBRARY 
 
 OF THE 
 
 UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA. 
 
 Class 
 
LIFE, 
 
 TIMES, AND CORRESPONDENCE 
 
 OF 
 
 JAMES MANNING, 
 
 AND THE 
 
 (Shtrirr f)t 
 
 OP 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 BY 
 
 REUBEN ALDRIDGE GUILD. 
 
 People will not look forward to posterity, who never look backward to their ancestors." 
 
 BURKE. 
 
 BOSTON: 
 
 GOULD AND LINCOLN 
 
 59 WASHINGTON STREET. 
 
 NEW YORK: SHELDON AND COMPANY. 
 CINCINNATI : GEORGE S. BLANQIIARD. 
 
 18G4. 
 
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1864, by 
 
 GOULD AND LINCOLN, 
 In the Clerk s Office of the District Court of the District of Massachusetts. 
 
THE MEMORY 
 
 OF 
 
 MY M O THE R, 
 
 is 00hntu 
 
 IS 
 
 INSCRIBED. 
 
 218969 
 
Cist of Sfllu 
 
 I. PORTRAIT OF JAJIKS MANNING, D.D., . facing titlepage 
 
 Page 
 II. BROWN UNIVERSITY, ......... 107 
 
 III. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, PUOV I DKXCK, R. I., . . . 225 
 
 IV. PORTRAIT OF HON. NICHOLAS BROWN 39? 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 A CENTURY has elapsed since BROWN UNIVERSITY was founded, 
 and nearly three quarters of a century have passed away since the 
 death of DR. MANNING ; yet no extended history of the one or life 
 of the other has been published. This neglect to record the honors, 
 the struggles, and triumphs of tjie founder, so to speak, of the ven 
 erable seat of learning, with the early history of which his own his 
 tory is so thoroughly identified, must be ascribed, in part, to the 
 almost habitual indifference which Baptists have thus far manifested 
 to the characters and the fame of their fathers and departed worthies. 
 
 " It is mortifying," says a writer in one of the earlier numbers 
 of the Christian Review, " that we have allowed men like Clarke 
 and Callender, Backus and Manning, each of them an honored 
 and true-hearted advocate of the faith which we profess, at a time 
 when this faith was despised and derided over the greater part of 
 New England, to pass away so nearly from the memory of men. 
 They were all scholars, who compared well with the foremost of 
 their time. Some of them, also, have linked their names with the 
 history of the country, by the services they rendered in the days 
 
 of her early settlements, and her subsequent struggles for national 
 1* 
 
VI P R E F ACE. 
 
 independence. But no one of them has found among their own 
 brethren a biographer to set forth their labors and sacrifices, and to 
 delineate their characters in connection with the peculiar faith which 
 they professed. Their lives, in some instances, at least, were filled 
 with important events, which illustrated the civil and religious char 
 acter of the age to which they belong. They were made beautiful, 
 too, by their simple manners, their all-enduring faith, their deep 
 devotion to truth. It is sad to think that their memory has so nearly 
 perished, and it is humiliating to think that this would have been 
 permitted in no other denomination than our own." 
 
 In 1815, twenty-four years after Dr. Manning s death, a brief 
 sketch of his character and life, by the late John Howland, Esq., 
 was published in the Rhode Island Literary Repository. It com 
 prises sixteen pages, and consists chiefly of personal recollections. 
 Mr. Howland, although his calling was humble, possessed original 
 and vigorous powers of mind, which he had cultivated by extensive 
 reading, and a close observation of men and manners. He was a 
 warm admirer of President Manning, who, with the leading men of 
 the town, used to frequent his shop. Although differing from him 
 in his religious sentiments, he has furnished a sketch of Manning 
 which the Rev. Dr. Hague, in his " Historical Discourse," pronoun 
 ces " an elegant tribute to his memory." 
 
 Nearly a quarter of a century later, a memoir of President Man 
 ning, from the pen of William Giles Goddard, LL.D., at that time 
 the accomplished Professor of Belles-letters in Brown University, 
 was published in the American Quarterly Register. This memoir 
 
PREFACE. Vlf 
 
 is necessarily brief, and although an admirable specimen of the 
 author s skill in literary writing, furnishes but little additional in 
 formation respecting Manning, his materials having been limited 
 mainly to the College records, and the traditions that had come down 
 to his time. As an illustration of this dearth of material, the Rev. 
 Dr. Elton, a few years later, in his " Literary Remains of Jonathan 
 Maxcy," D.D., thus remarks : " President Manning embodied in an 
 enduring form few of the productions of his noble mind. Of his 
 writings, after diligent inquiry for several years, we have been able 
 to obtain only two of his familiar letters, and an address delivered 
 to the graduating class in 1789." 
 
 The present work owes its origin to a train of circumstances, by 
 which the author came into the possession of new and original 
 sources of information in regard to Manning and his associates. In 
 the year 1848, soon after he entered upon his duties as librarian of 
 Brown University, a handsome morocco portfolio, lettered on the back 
 " MANNING PAPERS," was placed in his hands, as the custodian of 
 the Library. These papers, containing thirteen packages carefully 
 arranged by Manning himself, were found on examination to be his 
 correspondence with friends in England, he having preserved copies 
 of his own letters to them. They came from the late Mrs. Ludlow, 
 wife of the Rev. Peter Ludlow, and daughter of the Rev. Stephen 
 Gano. Mr. Gano, upon the death of Mrs. Manning, who was his 
 aunt, took possession of Mr. Manning s papers, as administrator of 
 the estate. Upon his own death, in 1828, the portfolio containing 
 Manning s foreign correspondence, as above described, fell into the 
 
VIII PREFACE. 
 
 hands of his daughter, Mrs. Ludlow, who finally presented it to the 
 Library. The greater portion, however, of Dr. Manning s papers, 
 being loosely kept in barrels, were, through a sad mistake which 
 good housewives sometimes make, unfortunately destroyed. These 
 papers comprised without doubt private diaries, important narratives, 
 records pertaining to the Church, the College, the Association, in 
 short, ample materials for his own personal history, and the history of 
 his times. An instance like this illustrates the folly of making the 
 garrets and storehouses of private dwellings places of deposit for 
 valuable manuscript papers, for the care and preservation of which 
 historical societies are instituted. 
 
 The acquisition of the " MANNING PAPERS " awakened on the 
 part of the author a desire to obtain further information in regard 
 tq the early history of the College, and the life of its first President. 
 By means of letters and circulars, and by persistent effort, a large 
 number of manuscript documents, printed pamphlets, sermons, 
 addresses, catalogues, theses, programmes, minutes of the Warren 
 Association, etc., have been collected and carefully arranged for 
 preservation in the College Library. The titles of most of these, are 
 given in Bartlctt s Bibliography of Rhode Island (see under BROWN 
 UNIVERSITY, pp. 45-66). From these varied materials the present 
 work has been mainly compiled. 
 
 In preparing a history of this kind, a large number of books 
 and pamphlets have of necessity been consulted and used, many of 
 which are referred to, both in the text and in foot-notes. The 
 " MANNING PAPERS," the papers and correspondence of Hczekiah 
 
PREFACE. IX 
 
 Smith, D.D., the papers of the lion. David Ho well, and the early 
 College records, together with riles of the Providence Gazette, con 
 stitute, it may be added, the basis of the book. 
 
 The author takes great pleasure in acknowledging herewith his 
 obligations to David Benedict, D.D., the veteran historian, from 
 whom he obtained Manning s diary and the correspondence of Hez- 
 ekiah Smith, together with other valuable letters and documents, in 
 cluding a set of the printed Minutes of the Warren Association, from 
 the year 1771 ; William B. Sprague, D.D., of Albany, who kindly 
 furnished copies of Manning s letters to General Miller, and who 
 also presented to the Library the original draft of the College Char 
 ter, of which an account is given in^the first chapter, and in the Ap 
 pendix ; Horatio Gates Jones, Esq., of Philadelphia, from whom he 
 obtained copies of Manning s letters to the Rev. Thomas Ustick, and 
 also much information essential to his work ; the Rev. Silas Hall, of 
 Raynham, Mass., to whom he is indebted for a copy of Backus s man 
 uscript minutes of the first four meetings of the Warren Association ; 
 Capt. G. L. Dwight, for papers belonging to his great-grandfather, 
 the Hon. David Howell, including letters to him from Manning ; the 
 Rev. Thomas S. Drowne, of Brooklyn, N. Y., for many rare docu 
 ments and pamphlets pertaining to the early history of the College ; 
 the Rhode Island Historical Society, for the free use of their ac 
 cumulated treasures ; and, in fine, to all the numerous friends who 
 have in any manner aided him in his work. 
 
 Justice to his feelings requires the author to express his special 
 gratitude to Barnas Sears, D.D., President of Brown Univer- 
 
X P R E F ACE. 
 
 si .y, for valuable suggestions and counsels, and for friendly en 
 couragement, given him from time to time while engaged in the 
 prosecution of his labors. The publishers also, Messrs. Gould and 
 Lincoln, deserve grateful mention for the interest which they have 
 taken in the publication of the book, the good taste which they have 
 displayed in its mechanical execution, and for the liberality and 
 promptness with which all their arrangements have been made and 
 completed. 
 
 The undertaking was entered upon with great diffidence. It has 
 been continued from year to year, under all the disadvantages of 
 accumulated public and professional duties, and amidst frequent in 
 terruptions. Historical accuracy, and not literary excellence, is all, 
 therefore, to which the author has been able to aspire. Sincerely 
 wishing that he had possessed greater skill and more ample leisure for 
 the performance of the task to which his position as librarian seems 
 naturally to have assigned him, the work, with all its imperfections, 
 is herewith submitted to the public, in the hope that it may be ac 
 ceptable to the general reader, and especially useful to the College, 
 and to the religious denomination under whose auspices the College 
 was founded. 
 
 R. A. G. 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY, SEPTEMBER 1, 1864. 
 
CONTENTS. 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 1738-1764. 
 
 Manning s Birth and Parentage Home Influence Early Education Sent 
 to the Hopewell Academy Isaac Eaton Conversion and Baptism Ben 
 jamin Miller Admitted into the College of New Jersey at Princeton His 
 Instructors, Davies, Finley, and Blai/ Extracts from the College Laws 
 Student Life Letter from Rev. Oliver Hart Manning s Classmates 
 Graduates with Salutatory Honors Marriage Ordination Sketch of his 
 Brother-in-law, John Gano Isaac Stelle Travels through the Colonies 
 Receives a Call from the Baptist Church in Charleston, S. C., which he de 
 clines Plan for establishing a Baptist College for the education more espe 
 cially of Young Men for the Ministry Colleges in existence at this time 
 Formation of the Philadelphia Association Early efforts of the Association, 
 in behalf of Education Hollis and the Hollis Scholarships at Harvard Uni 
 versity Hopewell Academy Annual Meeting of the Philadelphia Associa 
 tion in 1762 Rhode Island College projected Morgan Edwards Enter 
 prise specially intrusted to Manning His first appearance in Rhode Island 
 Movements at Newport in relation to the College, as narrated by Man 
 ningEzra Stiles Thomas Eyres Daniel Jenckes Jenckes s History of 
 the Charter Analysis of the statements of Manning and Jenckes Extracts 
 from the early Minutes of the Philadelphia and Warren Associations pertain 
 ing to the College Liberal spirit of the Charter Extract from Backus s 
 Church History of New England pertaining to the early History of the Col 
 lege 23 
 
XH CONTENTS. 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 
 1764-1769. 
 
 First Meeting of the Corporation, at Newport Character of the twenty-four 
 members present, representing the four religious denominations recognized 
 in the Charter Manning removes with his family to Warren Begins a 
 Latin School, now the " University Grammar School " Employs a part of his 
 time in preaching Formation of the Warrcu Baptist Church Appointed 
 President of the College- Extracts from a Letter of Rev. Isaac Backus to Dr. 
 ill of London - Suggests the formation of the Warren Association Diffi 
 culties to be overcome -First Meeting of the Association, in 1767 - Letter 
 from the Philadelphia Association Second and third Meetings Sentiments 
 and Plan of the Warren Association as drawn up by Manning -Plan to col 
 lect grievances -Character and influence of the Association - Manning s 
 prominence and usefulness as a member of the two Associations - Circular 
 Letter by Manning - Letter to Hon. David Ilowell - Ho well appointed Tutor 
 of Ihe College -Sketch of his Character - First Commencement of the Col- 
 - Account from the Providence Gazette -Hey. Morgan Edwards s efforts 
 in England and Ireland to secure funds for the College -Biographical Sketches 
 of members of the first Graduating Class ; Eev. Dr William Rogers, Hon. 
 James Mitchell Varnum, Rev. Charles Thompson, Rev. William Williams. 
 
 63 
 
 CHAPTER in. 
 
 1769-1770. 
 
 Erection of a College edifice, and place of location- Warren, East Greenwich 
 
 cwport, and Providence contend for the honor -Meeting of the Corpora- 
 
 Uon at Newport in reference thereto -Final contest between Newport and 
 
CONTENTS. XIII 
 
 Providence Subscriptions in Newport Final meeting of the Corporation 
 on the question of location Names of the thirty-five members present 
 Decision in favor of Providence Letter to Rev. Hezekiah Smith giving a 
 detailed account of this meeting Proceedings of the Corporation with ref 
 erence to Manning s removal to Providence Comparison between Provi 
 dence and Newport at this time Attempt to establish another College, at 
 Newport Home-lot of Chad Brown selected for the location of the College 
 
 Plans of Nassau Hall, Princeton, adopted for the building Corner-stone 
 laid by John Brown Manning sunders his connection with the church at 
 Warren His struggles of mind in regard to duty Removes to Providence 
 Remarks of Prof. Goddard respecting his position at this time Letter to Rev. 
 Dr. Stennett, of London Stennett s reply Efforts of Rev. Hezekiah Smith 
 to secure funds for the College, in South Carolina and Georgia Letter from 
 Rev. Oliver Hart in reference thereto Account of the first Commencement 
 in Providence Letter to Thomas Lapham, of Smithfield, illustrating the 
 early discipline of the College Biographical Sketch of Rev. Isaac Backus 
 Sketch of Rev. Dr. Samuel Stillman Sketch of Rev. Dr. Hezekiah Smith 
 
 Extracts from Smith s correspondence while in the Army Influence of the 
 Brown family upon the College Biographical Sketches of their ancestors: I. 
 Chad Brown; II. John Brown; III. James Brown; IV. James Brown Bi 
 ographical Sketches of the " Four Brothers," Nicholas, Joseph, John, and 
 Moses Brown Transit of Venus Destruction of the schooner Gaspee. . 107 
 
 CHAPTER IY. 
 
 1770-1773. 
 
 First Baptist Church of Providence Founded by Roger Williams in 1639 
 Samuel Winsor Manning s connection with the Church Invited to preach 
 Controversy on Singing in public worship and the Imposition of Hands 
 Becomes the Pastor in 1771 Revival under his preaching Letter to Dr. 
 
XIV CONTENTS. 
 
 Stennett, of London, giving an account of his views and feelings as Pastor of 
 the Church and President of the College, together with an account of the dis 
 pute between the Baptists and Congregationalists of Massachusetts, New 
 Hampshire, and Connecticut - Circular Letter of the Warren Association, in 
 1770, recommending the churches to seek redress of their grievances at the 
 King s Court in England Letter to Rev. Hezekiah Smith in behalf of an op 
 pressed Baptist Church in Richmond, N. H. Letter to Rev. John Ryland, 
 of Northampton, England Bitterness of the New England Congregational 
 ists in general towards the College Ryland s reply List of worthy men of 
 learning and character in England deserving the honors of the College Let 
 ter from Morgan Edwards illustrating the ill-feeling of the Congregationalists 
 towards the College Extract from Prof. Kuowles s Memoir of Roger Wil 
 liams respecting the expediency of unveiling scenes of intolerance and perse 
 cutionAccount of the third Commencement, in 1771 Letter to Dr. Lle 
 welyn, of London, giving the condition and prospects of the College, and urg 
 ing its claims upon his benevolence Letter to Rev. John Ryland Honors 
 of the College Spread of Baptist sentiments in New England Manning 
 suggests a Lottery to augment the funds of the College His connection with 
 the Latin School Manning s Salary Letter to Rev. John Ryland Gift 
 to the College of Dr. Gill s Works and fifty-two volumes of the Fathers Ry 
 land s letter to Manning Character and early history of Ryland s friend, 
 Rev. A u gustusM. Topi ady Letter to Dr. Stenuett Letter from Rev. Isaac 
 Woodman, of Thorp, England, suggesting a printed Narrative of the College 
 and declining its honors Manning s reply Extract from a letter from Ry 
 land respecting a History of the College Playful letter to Rev. Hezekiah 
 Smith Letter to Rev. Benjamin Wallin, a wealthy Baptist of London Wal- 
 lin s reply Letter to Ryland upon academic honors, and detailing facts illus 
 trative of the ill-will of Congregationalists toward the College Ryland s re 
 plyList of Calvinistic Baptist Ministers in England able to read the Greek 
 Testament Letter from Rev. O. Hart, of Charleston, S. C., thanking Man 
 ning for the discipline of the rod to his son Letter to Ryland Letter to 
 Wallin Letter to Rev. Abraham Booth, of London, author of "Reign of 
 Grace." 177 
 
CONTENTS. XV 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 1774-1779. 
 
 Description of the Baptist meeting-house at the time of Manning s removal to 
 Providence Church and Society prosper under his pastoral care Resolve 
 to build "a meeting-house for the public worship of Almighty God, and also 
 to hold Commencements in " Committees appointed John Brown Lot 
 tery to assist in defraying the expense liaising of the house Dedication 
 Description of the building and grounds Letter to Rev. Benjamin Wallin 
 Baptists imprisoned for the non-payment of rates Letter to Rev. John Ry- 
 land Manning s illness His Narrative of the College Commencement in 
 1774 Barnabas Binney Valedictory oration Letter to Thomas Ustick 
 Manning s efforts in behalf of civil an d religious freedom Congress of Delegates 
 meet at Philadelphia, Sept. 5, 1774 Address to the same from the Warren 
 Association Backus an agent to said Congress Meeting of the Baptists in 
 Philadelphia Conference between them and members of Congress Manning 
 addresses the Conference and reads a Memorial Results Increase of Baptist 
 sentiments throughout the land Extract from letter giving Dr. Stiles s 
 statements in regard to said Conference Petition from the Senior Class 
 Manning s reply No Commencement in 1775 Reasons Commencement in 
 
 1776 _ Newport taken by the British forces Providence under martial law 
 College studies suspended College building occupied by the American, and 
 afterwards by the French troops Manning s duties at this time Letter to 
 John Ryland, giving a picture of the war and an account of the progress of 
 religion in the land Letter to Rev. Benjamin Wallin, giving an account of 
 a remarkable revival of religion in the church and College Wallin s reply 
 Letter of sympathy and counsel to Miss A. Howard, of England Controver 
 sial letter on Infant-Baptism, to Rev. John Berridge, of London Conduct of 
 the Episcopal clergy in reference to the war Meeting of the Corporation in 
 
 1777 Instance of Manning s humane disposition Important civil function 
 confided to him Anecdote of Manning in relation to the " Dark Day " 
 
XVI CONTENTS. 
 
 Letter to Rev. Thomas Ustick, urging him to open a Latin school with a view 
 to aiding the College Letter from Judge Howell resigning his Professor 
 ship. .225 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 1779. 
 
 Distressed condition of the people of Rhode Island in 1779 Probable reasons 
 for a journey to Philadelphia Diary or Journal Manning sets out from 
 Providence Thursday, April 29 Sunday, May 2, preaches at Mr. James Thur- 
 ber s in the forenoon, and at Mr. Thompson s in the afternoon Thursday, 
 May 6, Continental Fast Preaches in the afternoon for Rev. Dr. Xathan 
 Strong, of Hartford Saturday, May 8, preaches to Seventh-day Baptists in 
 Farmington Description of the country Sunday, May 9, preaches for Rev. 
 Judah Champion, pastor of the Congregational church in Litchfield Mon 
 day, crosses chains of tremendous mountains Tuesday, May 11, preaches in 
 the evening at Mr. Waldo s Wednesday, 12, crosses Continental Ferry 
 Thursday, 13, reaches the family of his brother-in-law, Rev. John Gano 
 Sunday, 16, preaches twice for Rev. Mr. Randall s people Tuesday, 18, 
 assists his nephews in planting Sunday, 23, preaches again for Mr. Randall 
 at Warwick Monday, 24, sets out for the Jerseys Reaches Mrs. Manning s 
 home in the evening May 27, visits Elizabethtown, his native place Sunday, 
 30. preaches at the Scotch Plains Church Meeting interrupted by the march 
 of the American forces Sunday, June 6, preaches with Mr. Stelle, to a large 
 audience Saturday, 12. preaches at the Scotch Plains Church Sunday, 13, 
 preaches again ai:d administers communion Sunday, 20, preaches atLyon s 
 Farms Monday, June 21, sets out for Philadelphia In the evening preaches 
 at Samuel Randolph s June 24, visits Dr. Vankirk, and preaches in the 
 evening Accounts of grain and Indian corn June 27, tarries with Rev. 
 William Van Horn at Southampton, and preaches Fruit in this neighbor- 
 
CONTENTS. 
 
 hood cut off by the frost- Crops fine -Monday, June 28, reaches Pennepek, 
 and tarries with Rev. Dr. Samuel Jones five days - Sketch of Dr. Jones - 
 July 2, Manning arrives at Philadelphia - Puts up at William Goforth s- 
 Calls on Samuel Davis, William Rogers, Mr. Watkins, Mr. Westcots, Dr. Rush, 
 >Ir. Moulders, Mr. Hart, and Robert S. Jones -Financial embarrassments of 
 the country- Mr. Joseph Hart of the Executive Council spends the evening 
 at his lodgings -July 3, breakfasts with Dr. Rush - Inquires of Mr. Collins, 
 a member of Congress, relative to the money question - Dines at Mr. Red 
 wood s with Hon. William Ellery - Sunday, July 4, preaches twice - General 
 Spencer, a member of Congress, spends the evening with him -Monday, July 
 5, importuned by a committee of the First Baptist Church to tarry with them 
 a long time -Sets out in the afternoon for Dr. Jones s- July 7, sets out for 
 Bordentown-July9, preaches in the evening- July 11, preaches at Cran- 
 berry - Sick with diarrhoea - July 13, preaches at the Baptist meeting -July 
 16, sets out for Piscataway -Mrs. Manning ill - July 17, preaches at Sabba 
 tarian meeting - July 18, preaches foj Mr. Stelle twice - July 19, returns to 
 the Farms -Report concerning General Wayne and Stony Point- July 23, 
 sets out for Hopewell- July 25, preaches twice and administers the commun 
 ion-July 26, preaches in the afternoon - July 27, dines at John Hart s, 
 Kewtown - July 29, sets out again for Philadelphia - July 30, visits in town 
 -Sees the prisoners taken at Stony Point - Aug. 1, preaches twice- Letters 
 from friends - Aug. 5, call from Rev. Morgan Edwards - Aug. 7, visits Capt. 
 Falkner, in company with Edwards - Aug. 8, preaches in town three times 
 _ Aug. 10, visits Col. Miles, in company with Edwards and Jones - Descrip 
 tion of his country-seat - Weather - Crops - Aug. 14, preaches in the even 
 ing - Aug. 15, preaches twice, and attends funeral of a child - Aug. 1G, sets 
 out for Mr. Jones s at Pennepek - Finds Mr. Edwards there - Aug. 17, sets 
 out for the Jerseys -Visits his family and friends - Sept. 8, sets out for 
 Providence Sept. 11, reaches the home of his brother-in-law, Mr. Gano, and 
 next day preaches twice at Warwick - Sept. 14, meets Lieut. Hubbel on the 
 road, who had come from Newburgh with an invitation from West Point - 
 Sept. 16, goes down to West Point by water in Lieut. Hubbel s boat - De 
 scription of the fort and grounds -Introduced to Surgeon McDugal- Dines 
 at General Greene s quarters with his family - Is introduced to General 
 2* 
 
XVIII CONTENTS. 
 
 Washington, General Knox, Baron Steuben, the French Ambassador, and 
 others Returns up the river Sept. 17, sets out from the Continental Ferry 
 Journey through Connecticut Description of the country Character of 
 the inhabitants Manner of conducting town meetings Ravages of the 
 war Reaches home, Sept, 29. . . 263 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 
 1780-1783. 
 
 Meeting of the Corporation in 1780 College instruction revived - Manning s 
 perseverance Second interruption Meeting of the Corporation in 1782 
 Resolution to apply to Congress for damages done to the College edifice during 
 the war First Meeting of the Warren Association in Providence Illustra 
 tion of the efforts made by our fathers to educate and improve the "rising 
 generation "Letter to Hon. David Howell Letter to Kcv. Benjamin Wal- 
 lin Brief view of the religious condition of the country Public exercises 
 of Commencement resumed Manning s purpose to proceed to England to 
 solicit funds for the College His memorial to the Corporation on this subject 
 Second letter to Hon. David Howe]], giving an account of Commencement 
 and of the proceedings of the Corporation Petition to the King of France 
 for his patronage of the College Sketch of Dr. Benjamin Waterhouse Let- 
 ter from Thomas Jefferson in regard to the aforesaid petition to the King 
 Extracts from a Digest of the College Laws by President Manning Remarks 
 of Tristam Burges in regard to evening speaking on the chapel stage Man 
 ning s ideas of college government and discipline Letter to Henry Kane, of 
 London Letter to Rev. John Ryland Influence of the College in favor of 
 civil and religious liberty Letter to Manning from Rev. Dr. Stennett An 
 ecdote of Thomas Mullett, Esq.. respecting George Washington Reply to 
 Dr. Stennett, giving a history of the times during the war; John Murray; 
 Jemima Wilkinson; the "Elect Lady "; increase of religious toleration in New 
 England; calamities of the war; condition of the College; its influence in pro- 
 
CONTENTS. XIX 
 
 moting Baptist sentiments; character of its library ; plan for an Education So 
 ciety, etc. Origin of the Rhode Island Baptist Education Society Letter to 
 Dr. Thomas Llewelyn, urging him to endow the College, and thus give it his 
 name, according to a provision of the Charter Extract from an address of 
 the Warren Association pertaining to education, and especially to the College. 
 
 287 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 1784-1785. 
 
 Letter to Manning from Rev. Dr. Rippon, of London Most of the Baptist min 
 isters in England on the side of America in the war Manning s reply to Rip 
 pon Apostasy of Rev. Elhanan Winchester Sketch of Hon. Asher Robbins 
 
 Baptists compelled to contribute to the support of Pedobaptist worship in 
 Massachusetts and Connecticut Resolution of the Warren Association in ref 
 erence thereto Letter to Rev. Thomas Ustick on the subject Sketch of 
 Rev. Elhanan Winchester His troubles with the Baptist church in Philadel 
 phiaLetter to Rev. Dr. Smith William Wilkinson and the College Gram 
 mar School Extract from the Providence Gazette respecting the transfer of 
 the school from the College to the brick schoolhouse Letter to Rev. Dr. Ca 
 leb Evans, of Bristol, England Condition of the College Efforts to add to 
 its funds and to increase its library Evans s reply to Manning Illustration 
 of Manning s numerous and perplexing cares Letter from Rev. A. Booth 
 Manning s reply Letter to Rev. John Ryland, Jr. Letter to Rev. Dr. Rip 
 pon, introducing Dr. Solomon Drowne, of Providence Sketch of Dr. Drowne 
 
 Letter to Hon. David Howell, in Congress Letter to Rev. Thomas Ustick 
 
 Degree of Doctor in Divinity conferred on Manning by the University of 
 
 Pennsylvania Second letter to Hon. David Howell Letter to Thomas Mack- 
 aness, Esq., of London Manning s plan to establish a library for the Bap 
 tist Association in Kentucky Letter to Rev. Dr. Evans Manning s philan 
 thropic efforts to enlighten the illiterate Baptist ministers of Kentucky and 
 
XX CONTENTS. 
 
 Virginia Letter to Manning from Hon. Granville Sharp, of London Man 
 ning s reply Ecclesiastical matters pertaining to the Episcopal Church 
 Letter to Rev. Dr. Rippon Biographical sketch of Rev. Stephen Gano 
 Character of Hon. Stephen Hopkins, the first Chancellor of the College Let 
 ter from Rev. Dr. Evans announcing a donation of books to the College Li 
 brary from the Bristol Education Society Character of the donation and of 
 the aforesaid Society Letter to Hon. David Howell, in behalf of the Corpo 
 ration, urging him to use his influence with the members of Congress in favor 
 of a petition for indemnity for injuries which the College building sustained 
 during the war Death of Hon. Joseph Brown Correspondence between 
 Manning and John Gill, of London, respecting the publications of Rev. Dr. 
 John Gill List of Dr. Gill s published works Pleasant bibliographical 
 " morceau " respecting the first volume of Backus s Ecclesiastical History. 
 
 322 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 178G-1788. 
 
 Manning as a patriot statesman Appointed a member of Congress Account of 
 this event, by Hon. Asher Bobbins- Rev. Dr. Perez Fobes appointed to take 
 charge of the College in Manning s absence Letter to Rev. Dr. Rippon, giv 
 ing his reasons for entering upon political life Interests of the College par 
 amount to all others -Manning s description of a minister such as he might 
 wish to succeed him in the pastorate of the Baptist church - Letter from 
 Nicholas Brown to Rev. Dr. Smith, respecting Manning and a proposed va 
 cancy in the pastorate of the church Letter to Rev. Dr. Evans Letter to 
 Rev. Abraham Booth - Rev. Dr. William Gordon, of London, author of a his 
 tory of the American war - Letter to him -Congress passes an act for the relief 
 of the College -Letter to Rev. Dr. Smith, giving an account of his life as a 
 member of Congress -Letter to his colleague, Gen. Nathan Miller, giving an 
 account of his own embarrassed condition from the want of funds, and urg 
 ing him to take his seat as a delegate - Second letter to Mr. Miller - Letter to 
 
CONTENTS. XXI 
 
 Maiming from Dr. Gordon Public exercises of Commencement resumed 
 Sketch of lion. Nicholas Brown Account of the collection of portraits in 
 Rhode Island Hall Extract from a letter illustrating the difficulties against 
 which the College at this time had to contend Letter to llev. Dr. Smith 
 Severe reflections on the General Assembly of Rhode Island Trying period 
 in Manning s life Commencement of 1787 Sketch of Hon. Samuel Eddy 
 
 Biographical sketch of Rev. Dr. Jonathan Maxcy Confederation Feder 
 alists and Anti-Federalists Manning s influence in favor of the " New Consti 
 tution " Attends the Convention in Massachusetts for the adoption of the 
 Constitution Anecdote respecting him Letter to llev. Dr. Smith alluding 
 to his attendance upon the debates of the Convention Letter from llev. Dr. 
 Rippon Letter to Rev. Thomas Ustick Letter to Rev. Dr. Smith Bio- 
 graphicaisketch of Rev. Dr. Asa Messer Commencement of 1788 Sketch 
 of Hon. James Burrill Letter from Rev. Morgan Edwards Letter from 
 Rev. Dr. Evans Letter to Rev. Dr. Smith Early schools of 1 rovideiice 
 
 Manning s efforts in behalf of popular education 377 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 1789-1701. 
 
 Letter from Rev. Dr. Gordon, illustrating his political views, and his position 
 in England as the historian of the American Avar Manning appointed to 
 draft and present to Congress a petition in behalf of Rhode Island Address 
 to the Graduating Class of 1789 Jeremiah B. Howell James Fenner 
 Manning s customary charge to candidates for the ministry Letter to Rev. 
 Abraham Booth Booth s reply Letter from Rev. Dr. Evans Letter to 
 Rev Dr. Smith Religious interest in Providence Tutor Flint Final adop 
 tion of the Federal Constitution in Rhode Island George Washington s visit 
 to Providence Reception at the College Address of President Manning 
 in behalf of the Corporation Washington s reply Commencement for 
 1790 -Moses Brown Degree of LL.D. conferred on Washington Anec- 
 
XXII CONTENTS. 
 
 dote respecting him Letter to Ecv. Dr. Smith respecting Asa Messer, Tutor 
 Flint, etc. Ordination of Mr. Flint Letter from Rev. Abraham Booth 
 Letter from Rev. Dr. Eippon Letter from Rev. Dr. William Richards, of 
 Lynn, England Announces his intention of bequeathing his library to 
 Rhode Island College Account of Mr. Richards Corresponds with Presi 
 dent Messer Bequeaths his library to the University Last letter from 
 Manning, addressed to Rev. Dr. Smith Manning preaches his farewell sermon 
 to the people of his charge Notifies the Corporation of the College to look 
 out for a successor to fill his place Singular presentiment of his approaching 
 mortality His death Universal sorrow and regret Proceedings of the 
 Corporation Funeral Extracts from Maxcy s Funeral Sermon Letter 
 on the occasion of Manning s death from Rev. Dr. Stillman, addressed to 
 Rev. Dr. Smith Letter from Hon. David Howell, in behalf of members of 
 the Corporation, announcing Manning s death to Rev. Dr. Samuel Jones, and 
 in an informal manner designating him as his successor in the Presidency 
 Letter from Rev. Isaac Backus to Rev. Dr. Rippon Extracts from Simeon 
 Doggett s Commencement " Oration on the Death of Rev. President Manning " 
 Extracts from the circular letters of the Warren and Philadelphia Associa 
 tions Manning s personal appearance, habits, character, and influence, as 
 given by Hon. David Ilowell Original portrait of Manning, by Cosmo Alex 
 ander Manning s corpulency Conclusion The College founded by Bap 
 tists to secure for the churches an educated ministry The improvement and 
 elevation of the Baptist denomination through the College the object and aim 
 of Manning s entire professional life 420 
 
 APPENDIX, . 
 
 INDEX, . 
 
MANNING AND BROWN UNIVERSITY, 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 1738-1764. 
 
 Manning s Birth and Parentage Home Influence Early Education Sent 
 to the Hopewell Academy Isaac Eaton Conversion and Baptism Ben 
 jamin Miller Admitted into the College of New Jersey at Princeton His 
 Instructors, Davies, Finley, and Blair Extracts from the College Laws 
 Student Life Letter from the Rev. Oliver Hart Manning s Classmates 
 Graduates with Salutatory Honors Marriage Ordination Sketch of his 
 Brother-in-law, John Gano Isaac Stelle Travels through the Colonies 
 Receives a Call from the Baptist Church in Charleston, S. C., which he declines 
 
 Plan for establishing a Baptist College for the Education more especially of 
 Young Men for the Ministry Colleges in Existence at this time -Forma 
 tion of the Philadelphia Association Early Efforts of the Association in 
 behalf of Education Hollis and the Hollis Scholarships at Harvard Univer 
 sity Hopewell Academy Annual Meeting of the Philadelphia Association 
 in 1762 -Rhode Island College projected Morgan Edwards Enterprise 
 specially intrusted to Manning His first Appearance in Rhode Island 
 Movements at Newport in Relation to the College, as narrated by Manning 
 
 Ezra Stiles Thomas Eyres Daniel Jenckcs Jenckes s History of the 
 Charter Analysis of the Statements of Manning and Jenckes Extracts 
 from the early Minutes of the Philadelphia and Warren Associations pertain 
 ing to the College - Liberal Spirit of the Charter Extract from Backus s 
 Church History of New England pertaining to the early History of the Col 
 lege. 
 
 "!T is a homnge due to departed worth, whenever it 
 rises to such a height as to render its possessor an object 
 of general attention, to endeavor to rescue it from oblivion; 
 that, when it is removed from the observation of men, it 
 may still live in their memory, and transmit, through the 
 shades of the sepulchre, some reflection, however faint, of 
 its living lustre." This language of Robert Hall, on the 
 
24 MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 death of Dr. Ryland, is especially applicable to the subject 
 of the present memoir. Nearly three quarters of a cen 
 tury have elapsed since he passed from earth. " His own 
 times," says the Hon. William Hunter, our late Ambassa 
 dor to Brazil, " he inspired with a deep sense of his qual 
 ities as a scholar, -an orator, a statesman, a theologian, and 
 an educationist." A general impression of his remarkable 
 talent and influence still remains, but what composed 
 them has become a matter of tradition. Of all Dr. Man 
 ning s intimate associates, and of his numerous pupils, not 
 one is now living to aid by personal recollections any 
 endeavor to embody, in a suitable form, memorials of his 
 character and deeds. To perpetuate, therefore, his memory 
 through his life and correspondence, and to exhibit the ori 
 gin and early progress of the institution of learning whose 
 infancy he fostered, and whose resources he nurtured and 
 developed, will be the object of our present work. 
 
 The Reverend James Manning, D.D., was born in Eliz- 
 abethtown, New Jersey, on the 22d of October, 1738. 
 Concerning his remote ancestors we have no authentic 
 information. His father, Isaac Manning, was one of the 
 original thirteen members of the Scotch Plains Baptist 
 Church, which, as appears from the records, was consti 
 tuted on the 7th of August, 1747. Being a proprietor 
 and cultivator of the soil, his children were trained to 
 agricultural pursuits, and thus James acquired that skill 
 in husbandry for which he was ever distinguished. His 
 mother, Catharine, was also a member of the church. So 
 far as we may judge from the character and disposition of 
 her son, she was a woman of superior mental and physical 
 endowments, one who exemplified in her daily life the 
 happy and sanctifying influences of the Christian religion. 
 James thus enjoyed all those advantages which are de- 
 
173&-1764. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 2o 
 
 rived from the watchful care of sensible and religious 
 parents. To their counsel and example he was indebted 
 for those principles of right conduct, and those cultivated 
 moral sensibilities, which saved his youth from frivolity 
 and vice, and to which, ere he had attained to manhood, 
 God was pleased to add the regenerating influences of his 
 Holy Spirit. 
 
 Concerning his schoolboy days we can ascertain but 
 little. It is a matter of regret that no memorials of his 
 early life have been transmitted to his descendants. He 
 probably enjoyed better advantages for education than 
 most lads of that early colonial period. Elizabethtown 
 was then the chief city of New Jersey, and the centre of 
 comparative wealth and refinement. Whatever was the 
 character of its schools, it is certain that he was thoroughly 
 instructed in the elementary branches of learning. He 
 was an accomplished reader, an excellent penman, and a 
 good speller. His manuscript writings furnish abundant 
 evidence of his thorough proficiency in this latter useful 
 though too often neglected " rudiment." These may be 
 regarded as matters of trivial importance, yet they show 
 that he did not neglect his early opportunities, whatever 
 they were, for mental culture. 
 
 At the age of eighteen he left the parental roof to pre 
 pare for college, under the instruction of the Rev. Isaac 
 Eaton. 1 This gentleman had recently opened an academy 
 at Hopewell, New Jersey, "for the education of youth for 
 the ministry." To him, therefore, says a distinguished 
 
 1 Mr. Eaton was a son of Joseph Eaton of Montgomery. At an early age, 
 having made a profession of religion, he commenced his career as a public 
 speaker. In April, 1748, he came to Hopewell, and on the 29th of November 
 following was ordained pastor of the Baptist Church. In this relation he con 
 tinued until July 4, 1772, when he died, in the forty-seventh year of his age. 
 His funeral sermon was preached by the liev. Dr. Samuel Jones, one of his 
 
 3 
 
26 MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 writer, belongs the high honor of being the first American 
 Baptist to establish a seminary for the literary and theo 
 logical training of young men. For this work his natural 
 endowments of mind, his varied attainments in knowledge, 
 and his genuine piety happily qualified him. Here, under 
 the guidance of his faithful and beloved teacher, Manning 
 became the subject of renewing grace. Of the exercises 
 of his mind at this interesting period of his life, he has 
 left no record. How much the prayers of pious loved 
 ones at home contributed towards his conversion, and 
 how great an influence was thus to be exerted over the 
 destiny of multitudes in his after career, eternity alone will 
 reveal. A striking instance of the importance of prayer 
 in behalf of colleges and seminaries of learning is here 
 presented. Little did the Principal of the Hope well 
 Academy realize how greatly the interests of learning and 
 religion were to be affected by the conversion to God of 
 this promising youth. 
 
 Having finished his preparatory studies, Manning re 
 turned to Elizabethtown, where he made a public profes 
 sion of religion. He was baptized by the Rev. Benjamin 
 Miller, 1 who for many years had been the pastor of the 
 Scotch Plains Baptist Church. Soon afterwards, being 
 now twenty years of age, he was admitted into the College 
 
 earliest pupils, who thus briefly portrays his character: "The natural endow 
 ments of his mind, the improvement of these by the accomplishments of litera 
 ture, his early and genuine piety, his abilities as a divine and a preacher, his 
 extensive knowledge of men and books, his Catholicism, etc., would afford ample 
 scope to flourish in a funeral oration ; but it is needless." He received the de 
 gree of Master of Arts from three colleges, the College of New Jersey, in 1756; 
 the College of Philadelphia, in 1761; and Rhode Island College, in 1770. 
 
 " In him, with grace and eminence, did shine 
 The man, the Christian, scholar, and divine." 
 
 i Benjamin Miller, a native of Scotch Plains, was a wild and reckless youth, 
 
173S-17G4. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 27 
 
 of New Jersey as a member of the Freshman Class. This 
 flourishing institution had been founded by the Presby 
 terian Synod of New York, in the year 1746. Its first 
 location was Elizabethtown, whence it was removed to 
 Newark, where it remained eight years. In 1756 it was 
 again removed to Princeton, its present location, where 
 Nassau Hall, one of the largest and finest buildings in the 
 colonies, had been erected for its use. Here he enjoyed 
 the instruction of the Rev. Dr. Davies, a man distinguished 
 for his wisdom, piety, and eloquence, 1 and whose varied 
 gifts and talents gave lustre and efficiency to the college 
 over w T hich he presided. During his Senior year he was 
 taught Latin, Greek, and Hebrew by President Finley, Mr. 
 Davies successor. Mr. Finley possessed extensive learn 
 ing, and was especially remarkable for sweetness of dispo 
 sition and politeness of behavior. He was also instructed 
 by tutors Halsey, Treat, Ker, and Blair, all of whom after 
 wards became eminent clergymen. The last named, Dr. 
 Samuel Blair, was in 1767 elected to the presidency of 
 the college, Dr. Witherspoon having declined this honor. 
 
 but was converted in consequence of a sermon preached by the celebrated Gil 
 bert Tennent, who encouraged him to enter the ministry. He was ordained on 
 the 13th of February, 1748, as pastor of the church in his native place. Here he 
 continued until November 14, 1780, or about thirty-four years, when he died, in 
 the sixty-sixth year of his age. He was a good, laborious, and successful min 
 ister. "Never," said the Rev. John Gano, who preached his funeral sermon, 
 " did I esteem a ministering brother so much as I did Mr. Miller, nor feel so 
 sensibly a like bereavement as that which I sustained by his death." 
 
 i Dr. Davies spent the early part of his professional life in Virginia. It is 
 well known, says one, that from the eleventh to the twenty-second year of his 
 age,Patrick Henry heard the patriotic sermons which Mr. Davies was accus 
 tomed to deliver, and which were said to have produced effects as powerful as 
 those ascribed to the orations of Demosthenes ; that he was an enthusiastic ad 
 mirer of Mr. Davies and his opinions; and that it was Mr. Davies who first 
 kindled the fire and afforded the model of Henry s elocution. (See History of 
 the College of New Jersey, 174G-1783, in the " Princeton Whig " for Febru 
 ary, 1844.) 
 
28 MANNINGAND CHAP. T. 
 
 Blair did not accept the appointment, and Witherspoon 
 was afterwards reflected by the Trustees. Such were 
 Manning s instructors. That the teachings of these ex 
 cellent men, and the associations of his academic and col 
 legiate life, had a most important influence in developing 
 his character, and in determining his subsequent career, no 
 one will deny. 
 
 Among the requirements for admission to the College of 
 New Jersey, was one obliging every student to transcribe 
 the laws and customs thereof, which copy, being signed by 
 the President, was to be in testimony of his admission, and 
 to be kept by him while in college as a rule of his good 
 behavior. From a manuscript copy of these laws, made 
 by the Rev. Dr. Hezekiah Smith in the summer of 1758, 
 we make a few extracts, illustrating as they do the char 
 acter and spirit of the institution where Manning, and 
 Howell, who was afterwards associated with him, received 
 their education. These laws, somewhat modified, became, 
 it may be added, a basis for the government and discipline 
 of Rhode Island College : 
 
 1. No students may expect to be admitted into the college but such as 
 have been examined by the President and tutors, and shall be found able 
 to render Virgil and Tully s Orations into English, to turn English into 
 true and grammatical Latin, and to be so well acquainted with Greek as 
 to render any part of the four Evangelists in that language into Latin or 
 English, and give the grammatical construction of the words. 
 
 2. Those who have prosecuted their studies for the space of three years 
 after obtaining their first degree, if they have not been scandalous in their 
 lives and conversation, shall be admitted to the degree of Master of Arts. 
 
 3. The students, on every Lord s Day, shall attend divine service in 
 some place of public worship ; which, if they without sufficient excuse 
 omit, they shall be punished in a fine of fourpcnce ; and they shall also 
 pay a religious regard to the Lord s Day, by keeping in their rooms, and 
 not visiting, or admitting others into their company. And it is judged 
 
1738-1764. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 29 
 
 expedient, and hereby ordered, that no student be out of his room, on the 
 evening next after Saturday, or next after Lord s Day, except for religious 
 purposes, or some necessary occasion, under penalty of fourpence for every 
 said offence. 
 
 4. If any student shall be convicted of drunkenness, fornication, lying, 
 theft, or any other scandalous crime, he shall be admonished, make a pub 
 lic confession, or be expelled, according to the aggravation of the crime ; 
 provided, always, that no member be expelled the college without the 
 consent of at least six of the Trustees, the President, in the interim, 
 having power to suspend such offenders. 
 
 5. None of the students shall frequent taverns or places of public enter 
 tainment, or keep company with persons of known scandalous lives, who 
 will be likely to vitiate their morals. Those that practise contrary to this 
 law, shall first be admonished, and if they still persist in such dangerous 
 courses, they shall be expelled the college. 
 
 6. None of the students shall play at cards, or dice, or any other unlaw 
 ful game, upon the penalty of a fine not exceeding five shillings for the 
 first offence ; for the second, public admonition ; and for the third, expul 
 sion. 
 
 7. Those students who bring into their chambers, without a permit 
 from the President or some of the tutors, wine, metheglin, or any kind 
 of distilled spirituous liquors, shall be punished in a fine not exceeding 
 five shillings for each offence. 
 
 8. None of the students shall be absent from their chambers, without 
 leave first obtained from the President or one of the tutors, unless half 
 an hour after morning prayers and recitation, an hour and a half after 
 dinner, and from evening prayers till seven o clock, on the penalty of four- 
 pence for each offence. 
 
 9. If any scholar shall persist in the careless neglect of his studies, and 
 shall not make suitable preparation for the stated recitations, and other 
 scholastic exercises appointed for his instruction, he shall, after due admo 
 nition, be expelled. 
 
 10. Scholars shall not go out of town, except by the President s or tu 
 tor s license, unless it be in the stated vacation, on penalty of such fine aa 
 the President shall think proper, not exceeding five shillings for the first 
 offence ; and if, after admonition, they continually repeat the offence, they 
 shall be expelled. 
 
 1 1 . The tutors shall frequently visit their pupils in their chambers, to 
 
 3* 
 
30 MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 direct and encourage them in their studies, and see that they are diligently 
 employed about their proper business. 
 
 12. No jumping, hollaring, or boisterous noise shall be suffered in the 
 college at any time, or walking in the gallery in the time of study. 
 
 13. Whoever shall do any damage, designedly, by writing, marking, 
 etc., in any part of the college, shall pay fourfold the real damage ; if acci 
 dentally, shall make it good ; and what damage is done, and the authors 
 thereof cannot be detected, shall be levied equally on them that live in the 
 room or in the gallery where it is done ; if in the library or hall, or any 
 part of the college unoccupied, to be levied equally on all. 
 
 14. If any scholar refuses to open his door to the President or tutors, 
 who may signify their presence by a stamp, they may break it down ; and 
 the scholar so refusing shall be punished as in a case of contempt of 
 authority. 
 
 15. The students of the college shall be obliged to appear in such habits 
 as the President, tutors, and any of the Trustees shall fix upon. 
 
 16. Every member of the college shall treat the authority of the same, 
 and all superiors, in a becoming manner, paying that respect to every 
 one considered in his proper place. 
 
 17. Every scholar in college shall keep his hat off about ten rods to the 
 President, and five to the tutors. 
 
 18. Every Freshman sent of an errand shall go and do it faithfully, and 
 make quick return. 
 
 19. Every scholar shall rise up and make obeisance when the Presi 
 dent goes in or but of the hall, or enters the pulpit on days of religious 
 worship. 
 
 20. If walking with a superior, he shall give him the highest place. 
 
 21. If called upon or spoken to by a superior, he shall, if within hear 
 ing, give a direct and pertinent answer, with the word Sir at the end 
 thereof. 
 
 22. If overtaking a superior, or if met by him going up or down stairs, 
 he shall stop, giving him the banister side. 
 
 23. No Freshman shall wear a gown. 
 
 24. No member of the college shall wear his hat in the college at any 
 time, or appear in the dining-room at meal-time, or in the hall at any 
 public exercise, or knowingly in the presence of the superiority of the col 
 lege, without an upper garment, and having shoes and stockings tight. 
 
 While a member of college, Manning occasionally re- 
 
1738-1701. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 turned to Hopewell, and assisted Mr. Eaton in the instruc 
 tion of the pupils under his care. Concerning his student- 
 life our information is very limited. He was remarkable 
 for diligence and attention to his studies, habits which 
 soon gained for him a reputation for superior scholarship. 
 In rhetoric, eloquence, moral philosophy, and the classics, 
 he especially excelled. He was fond of athletic exercise, 
 and devoted many of his hours for recreation to manly 
 and invigorating sports. " Sana mem in sano corpora " 
 was his motto. In his conduct he was uniformly regular, 
 and he thus maintained a good standing with the officers 
 of the college, without losing thereby the friendship and 
 esteem of his fellow-students. 
 
 While a student at the academy, Manning had formed 
 an acquaintance with the Hev. Oliver Hart, pastor of the 
 Baptist Church in Charleston, S. C. This proved to him 
 a source of great pleasure and profit. Mr. Hart was his 
 senior by about fifteen years, and was eminently a re 
 ligious man. He was the main founder of the " Charles 
 ton Baptist Association," that venerable and useful body, 
 through the medium of which he continued to shed upon 
 the denomination at the South the benign influences of 
 his well-balanced mind, for thirty years. He also, in con 
 nection with the Rev. Francis Pelot and others, founded, 
 in 1755, "The Religious Society," to aid pious young men 
 in obtaining an education for the public services of the 
 church. One of the earliest beneficiaries of this society 
 was the Rev. Dr. Stillman, whose name occurs so fre 
 quently throughout these pages. During the latter part 
 of Manning s Junior year in college, and shortly after the 
 death of President Duvies, Mr. Hart addressed to him a 
 letter, which we here introduce, although it interrupts for 
 a moment the narrative : 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 CHARLESTON, April 27, 1761. 
 MY DEAR FRIEND : 
 
 I received your kind letter of the 1st of March, ult., together with 
 President Davies sermon on the death of his late Majesty, for which 
 favors I return my most unfeigned thanks. You intimate that you have 
 written me several letters heretofore. I have received only one of them, 
 as near as I can remember, above two years ago, and to which I returned 
 an answer by the first opportunity. I lament with you (and surely all 
 the friends of Zion must mourn) the loss of the justly celebrated President 
 Davies. Oh, what floods of sorrow must have overwhelmed the minds 
 of many, when it was echoed from house to house and from village to 
 village, as in the dismal sound of hoarse thunder, President Davies is no 
 more ! Oh, sad and melancholy dispensation ! Arise, all ye sons of pity, 
 and mourn with those that mourn. And thou, my soul, let drop the 
 flowing tear while commiserating the bereaved and distressed. Alas 
 for the dear woman, whose beloved is taken away with a stroke ! May 
 Jesus be her husband, her strength, and her stay. Alas for the bereaved 
 children ! May their father s God be their God in covenant. Alas for 
 the church of Christ ! Deprived of one of the principal pillars, how 
 grievous the stroke to thee ! But Jesus, thy head and foundation, ever 
 lives. 
 
 And thou, Nassau Hall, lately so flourishing, so promising, under the 
 auspicious management of so worthy a President what might we not 
 have expected from thee ! But alas ! How is the mighty fallen in thee ! 
 How cloth the large and beautiful house appear as a widow in sable weeds ! 
 And thy sons, lately so gay and pleasant, as well as promising and con 
 tented how do they retire into their apartments, and there with bitter 
 sighs, heavy groans, and broken accents, languish out, My Father, my 
 Father ! the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof! But I can 
 write no more. 
 
 Yours, affectionately, 
 
 OLIVER HART. 
 
 Manning graduated on the 29th of September, 1762, 
 with the second honors of his class. This class consisted 
 of twenty-one, and included some excellent scholars, who 
 afterwards distinguished themselves in their several profes 
 sions and walks of life. Among them may be mentioned 
 
1738-1764. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 33 
 
 his most intimate friend and companion, the Rev. Dr. 
 Hezekiah Smith, of Haverhill, Mass. ; Ebenezer -Hazard, 
 who was the first Postmaster General of the United States 
 after the adoption of the Federal Constitution, and who 
 afterwards published in two quarto volumes a valuable 
 collection of documents relating to American history; 
 Jonathan Dickinson Sergeant, a member of Congress and 
 the first Attorney General of Pennsylvania ; Joseph Per- 
 iam, for several years a tutor in the college ; Hugh Alison, 
 a Presbyterian clergyman ; and the Hon. Isaac Allen, 
 who was the valedictorian of the class. The distinction 
 conferred upon Manning by the college authorities, in 
 awarding to him the salutatory addresses, provoked, it 
 is said, some discontent among his ambitious compeers. 
 This, however, is by no means an unusual thing in the 
 annals of our literary institutions. His Latin oration, with 
 which the exercises of Commencement were introduced, 
 is spoken of in the Pennsylvania Gazette as " an elegant 
 salutatory." 
 
 Soon after his graduation, he made arrangements to 
 enter upon the duties of the profession to which he had 
 already consecrated his life. By a vote of the church, 
 taken, as appears from the records, on the 30th of Novem 
 ber, 1762, he was called to engage in the work of the 
 Christian ministry. On the 23d of March following, he 
 was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Stites, daughter 
 of John Stites, Esq., of Elizabethtown. Mr. Stites was 
 a "ruling elder" in the Scotch Plains Church, to the use 
 fulness and respectability of which his judicious counsels 
 and large liberality greatly contributed. He was in afflu 
 ent circumstances, 1 and for several years was the mayor 
 
 1 Mr. Stites lost the greater part of his property during the revolutionary 
 war. This will in part account for various allusions to Dr. Manning s strait 
 ened circumstances towards the close of his life. 
 
34 MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 or chief magistrate of the place. His home at Connecticut 
 Farms, in the immediate neighborhood of the city, was 
 the centre of an abundant hospitality, where Manning and 
 his wife were ever welcome guests. This marriage proved 
 a source of great domestic felicity. Mrs. Manning pos 
 sessed those elegant accomplishments and superior qual 
 ities which well accorded with her husband s character, 
 and happily fitted her for the discharge of duties insepa 
 rable from public positions of honor and usefulness. She 
 was also lovely and attractive in person, if we may judge 
 from her portrait in the possession of a branch of the family. 
 The blessings of offspring were, however, denied them. 
 She survived her beloved companion many years, and, 
 after a long and retired widowhood, died in Providence, 
 Nov. 9, 1815, at the advanced age of seventy-five. At 
 the time of their marriage, she was not a professor of re 
 ligion. During a revival under her husband s preaching, 
 in 1775, she became a hopeful convert, and was received 
 into the fellowship of the Baptist Church. The joys and 
 consolations of a well-grounded hope in Christ thus com 
 forted her in her bereavement, soothed her declining years, 
 and cheered her dying hours. 
 
 On the 19th of April, a few weeks after his marriage, he 
 was publicly ordained, and set apart for his chosen work. 
 The sermon on the occasion was preached by his brother- 
 in-law, the Rev. John Gano, 1 who had but recently been 
 
 1 Mr. Gano, whose name frequently occurs throughout these pages, was re 
 garded by the early Baptists as a " star of the first magnitude," a " prince among 
 the hosts of Israel. 1 Possessed of superior natural talents and a great knowl 
 edge of human nature, he adapted himself with singular readiness to the varied 
 circumstances of his eventful life. His ancestors were Huguenots. Francis 
 Gerneaux, his great-grandfather, escaped from the island of Guernsey during 
 the hloody persecution that arose in consequence of the revocation of the Edict 
 of Nantes, and, arriving in this country, settled at New Rochelle, where lie died 
 
1738-1764. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 35 
 
 settled over the newly-constituted Baptist church in New 
 York. His teacher and spiritual guide at the academy, 
 the Rev. Isaac Eaton, gave the charge, and his beloved 
 
 at the extraordinary age of one hundred and three years. John was born at 
 Hopewell, N. J., July 22, 1727. His parents were eminently pious, and from his 
 earliest years he was faithfully instructed in the great principles of religion. At 
 the close of 1754, or early in 1755, he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Stites, 
 who proved to be a most agreeable companion, and an efficient auxiliary to his 
 usefulness. Eleven children seven sons and four daughters were the fruits 
 of this union; one of whom, Dr. Stephen Gano, was for a period of thirty-six 
 years (1792-1828) the honored pastor of the First Baptist Church in Providence. 
 In June, 1762, the First Baptist Church in New York, consisting of twenty- 
 seven members dismissed for this purpose from the Scotch Plains Church, was 
 organized, and Mr. Gauo became its pastor. Here he continued for a quarter 
 of a century, excepting the time he was absent from the city in consequence 
 of the war. During his ministry the church was greatly prospered, receiving 
 by baptism about three hundred members. 
 
 Mr. Gano early espoused the cause of his country in the contest with Great 
 Britain. At the commencement of the war he joined the standard of freedom 
 in the capacity of chaplain, and by his preaching contributed not a little to im 
 part a determined spirit to the soldiers. He continued in the army till the con 
 clusion of the war. Many anecdotes are told of him illustrative of his skill in 
 administering reproof. A lieutenant, after uttering some profane expressions, 
 accosted him, saying, " Good-morning, Doctor." 1 Good-morning, sir," replied 
 the chaplain. " You pray early this morning." " I beg your pardon, sir," said 
 the lieutenant. " Oh, I cannot pardon you; carry your case to God." Stand 
 ing near some soldiers who were disputing whose turn it was to cut wood for 
 the fire, one of them said he would be d d if he would cut it. Mr. Gano im 
 mediately stepped up, saying, " Give me the axe." " Oh no," replied the sol 
 dier ; " the chaplain sha n t cut wood." " Yes," said he, " I must. I just heard 
 
 you say you would be d d if you would cut it; and 1 should rather take the 
 
 labor off your hands than to have you made miserable forever." 
 
 In 1788, Mr. Gano left his society in New York, and removed to Kentucky. 
 He died at Frankfort, in 1804, in the seventy-eighth year of his age. " He was in 
 person," says Dr. Furman, "below the middle stature, and when young of a 
 slender form ; but of a firm, vigorous constitution, well fitted for performing 
 active services with ease, and for suffering labors and privations with constancy. 
 In the more advanced stages of life, his body tended to corpulency. His pres 
 ence was manly, open, and engaging, and his voice strong and commanding. 
 Like John, the harbinger of our Redeemer, he was a burning and a shining 
 light, and many rejoiced in his light. Resembling the sun. he arose in the 
 church with morning brightness, advanced regularly to his station of meridian 
 splendor, and then gently declined, with mild effulgence, till he disappeared, 
 without a cloud to intercept his rays or obscure his glory." 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 friend, the Rey. Isaac Stelle, 1 of Piscataway, made the 
 ordaining prayer. For about a year after this event, 
 Manning travelled through the colonies, to ascertain the 
 actual state of religion, and to prepare himself for more 
 widely-extended usefulness, by a thorough acquaintance 
 with men and manners, and an accurate knowledge of the 
 condition and wants of the denomination to which he was 
 attached. No record is left to indicate the extent, or to 
 exhibit the incidents, of his journeyings. He preached 
 during this period to various destitute churches, and every 
 where his labors appear to have been highly acceptable. 
 By the following letter from the Rev. Oliver Hart, it 
 appears that Manning was invited to assist him in his 
 
 Memoirs of Mr. Gano s life, written principally by himself, were published, in 
 a small duodecimo, in 1806. He was one of the first trustees of Rhode Island 
 College, and, until his removal to Kentucky, cooperated most efficiently with 
 President Manning in his efforts to promote the cause of sound learning and 
 ministerial education. 
 
 1 Mr. Stelle was the son of Benjamin Stelle, a worthy magistrate, who for 
 many years was pastor of the Piscataway Church. Upon the death of Benjamin, 
 in 1759, he was succeeded by his son Isaac, who continued in this pastoral office 
 until Oct. 9, 1781, when he died, in the sixty-third year of his age. He possessed 
 a temperament exceedingly active, and a disposition uncommonly amiable. 
 Fired by ardent piety, he longed for usefulness, and, under the guidance of Mr. 
 Miller, to whom we have already referred as Manning s early pastor, he engaged 
 in itinerating labors remarkable even for that age. Between these brethren 
 there existed the strongest ties of personal friendship and esteem. " Lovely 
 and pleasant," says one, " were they in their lives, and in death they were not 
 much divided, the one having survived the other only about thirty-five days." 
 " If one was grieved, it did them both annoy; 
 If one rejoiced, the other felt the joy; 
 When one was gone, the other could not stay, 
 But quickly hastened to eternal day." 
 
 Benjamin, a son of the Rev. Isaac Stelle, graduated at the College of New 
 Jersey in the year 1766. He came to Providence and established a Latin school, 
 as we learn from a letter of President Manning to David Howell, dated July 
 14, 1766. The late Hon. Nicholas Bro\vn married a daughter of this Mr. Stelle 
 for his second wite. 
 
1738-1764. -BROWN UNIVERSITY. 37 
 
 labors as pastor of the Baptist church in Charleston. 
 This invitation, or, strictly speaking, call from the church, 
 fortunately for the interests of learning and religion in 
 New England, he declined, having already entered upon 
 the great educational work to which his future life was to 
 be consecrated. The Rev. Nicholas Bedgegood, it may 
 be added, was afterwards employed as an assistant to Mr. 
 Hart ; and, by his popular talents and pleasing address, 
 gained so much upon the admiration of many, that an 
 attempt, although unsuccessful, was made to supplant Mr. 
 Hart, and to place the assistant in the pastoral office. 
 
 CHARLESTON, June 20, 1763. 
 DEAR MR. MANNING : 
 
 A few days ago I had the pleasure to forward a call to you, from this 
 church, to come over and assist me in breaking the bread of life to the 
 dear people of my charge. I hope enough has been said to induce you 
 to come over to this " delightful region," if I may use your own words. 
 Since I wrote to you last, I have received letters from Mr. Gano, who 
 informs me that you are married, ordained, and not settled ; or that you 
 intend a journey to the eastward before you settle anywhere. I assure 
 you that this gives me hope that you will settle to the southward, seeing 
 you are not yet engaged. 
 
 I congratulate you on your having entered into a new state of life, and 
 hope you will enjoy all the comforts which the married state can afford. 
 I welcome you into the vineyard of the Lord as one of his laborers. You 
 are now an ambassador for the King of kings. I doubt not but that a 
 sense of the importance of the work lies with weight upon your rnind. 
 Well, he who is the Lord our righteousness is also the Lord our strength. 
 I have only to say, I hope God will send you upon an embassy to this 
 place, where you will be welcomed to my heart, to my house, and to my 
 people, and where you will have a hopeful prospect of doing much good. 
 
 Remember me in kind love to your other self. Tell her I wish her joy 
 
 in her new state, and hope for the pleasure of saluting her in Charleston, 
 
 where many whose ambition will be to make her happy will rejoice to 
 
 see her. If the call should happen, by any means, to miscarry, pray look 
 
 4 
 
38 MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 upon this as one, and do not engage till you receive a duplicate of that 
 already sent. I wish you great grace, and am 
 
 Yours, in Jesus, 
 
 OLIVER HART. 
 
 It was about the time of Manning s graduation that the 
 plan of establishing a Baptist college or university for the 
 education, more especially, of young men for the ministry, 
 was freely discussed by many prominent men in the de 
 nomination. There were important reasons for a move 
 ment of this kind. The only colleges in New England 
 were Harvard l and Yale, 1 both under the control of Con- 
 gregationalists. The College of New Jersey 1 had been 
 established by the Presbyterians. The remaining colleges, 
 Columbia 1 in New York, William and Mary l in Virginia, 
 and the University of Pennsylvania, 1 had been established 
 by Episcopalians, and were under their control. Those 
 who consult the pages of our early historians, and, indeed, 
 the correspondence of Manning in future chapters of this 
 work, will readily perceive that towards the Baptists, as 
 a people, the Congregationalists of New England enter 
 tained unfriendly feelings, taxing them unjustly, and op 
 pressing them in various ways, in accordance with the 
 narrow and illiberal policy of a past age. In regard to 
 Episcopalians, the opinion was entertained, " whether cor 
 rectly or not," says Prof. Kingsley in his Life of Dr. Stiles, 
 " it is unimportant here to determine, that the Episcopal 
 clergy generally, and the leading individuals among the 
 laity in the same communion, especially in New England, 
 
 i Harvard College was founded in 1638; William and Mary, in 1692; Yale, in 
 1701; College of New Jersey, in 1746; University of Pennsylvania, in 1753; and 
 Columbia College, in 1754. Of the two hundred and thirty-six colleges men 
 tioned in the National Almanac for 1864, Brown University, therefore, which 
 was founded in 1764, is the seventh in the order of date. 
 
1738-1764. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 39 
 
 were hostile to the privileges granted in several of the 
 royal charters, and were endeavoring to undermine them." 
 Hence from political considerations, aside from all others, 
 the majority of religious people throughout the colonies 
 found themselves opposed to the interests of the Episcopal 
 church. In this feeling the Baptists, who from their earli 
 est history have always advocated religious freedom, and 
 equality among men, very naturally shared. The fact that 
 the English Government, in its appointments to office, re 
 stricted its selection to members of the Episcopal church, 
 contributed not a little to this feeling. It is not, therefore, 
 unreasonable to infer that they regarded with no favorable 
 eye institutions of learning where sectarian and restrictive 
 influences prevailed. In order, however, to a proper un 
 derstanding of the origin of Brown University, it may be 
 well at this point to go back half a century, and consider 
 briefly the first distinct organization on this continent of 
 the Baptists as a religious society. 
 
 In the year 1707, on the 27th of July, a meeting of del 
 egates from Baptist churches in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, 
 and Delaware was held at Philadelphia. The object of 
 this meeting, as appears from the records, was " to consult 
 about such things as were wanting in the churches, and set 
 them in order," and in general to promote the welfare of 
 the denomination. Hence the origin of the Philadelphia 
 Association. The brethren who assembled on this occa 
 sion represented the churches at Lower Dublin, Middle- 
 town, Piscataqua, Cohansie, and Welsh Tract. The General 
 Meeting, so called, which had been held at Philadelphia 
 from 1689, was thus transformed into an Association of 
 Messengers, authorized by their respective churches to de 
 vise and execute designs of public good. From its begin 
 ning, it has been a flourishing body. According to the 
 
40 MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 statistics of its 156th anniversary, held on the 6th, 7th, and 
 8th of October, 1863, it now comprises sixty churches, with 
 a membership, if we may so speak, of 12,862. At a com 
 paratively early period, the churches thus associated pro 
 jected plans to secure an educated ministry. In looking 
 over the records, we find in 1722 a proposition "for the 
 churches to make inquiry among themselves, if they have 
 any young persons hopeful for the ministry, and inclinable 
 for learning ; and if they have, to give notice of it to Mr. 
 Abel Morgan, before the first of November, that he might 
 recommend such to the academy, on Mr. Hollis, his ac 
 count." Reference is here had to Thomas Hollis, Esq., of 
 London, the distinguished benefactor of Harvard Uni 
 versity. 1 He had recently founded ten scholarships, 
 directing that the incumbents should be poor students, 
 who were intended for the " ministry of the gospel of Jesus 
 Christ; " " and that none," to use his own language, " be 
 refused on account of his belief and practice of adult bap 
 tism, if he be sober and religiously inclined." In a letter 
 to the Rev. Ephraim Wheaton, of Swanzey, Massachusetts, 
 which we find published in the first volume of the Massa 
 chusetts Missionary Magazine, Mr. Hollis, in reference to 
 
 1 Mr. Hollis commenced his donations to Harvard in 1719. Besides making 
 valuable additions to the library and philosophical apparatus, he established a 
 fund for the support of ten poor scholars, a Professor of Divinity, and a Pro 
 fessor of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy; the scholars to receive each 10 
 currency per annum, and the professors each a salary of 80 currency, or 26 
 sterling. "The aggregate of his donations," says Peirce in his history of the 
 University, ; wr.s not much, if at all, short of 2000 sterling. So large an 
 amount was never given to the college before by any one individual ; and when 
 it is considered that all this came from a stranger in a distant land, from one of 
 the then poor, despised Baptists, during the lifetime of the donor, and at a time 
 when the value of money was vastly greater than it is now, what breast does not 
 glow with grateful admiration! Some idea may be formed of the difference in 
 the value of money then and now, by considering that the salary of a professor 
 was at first only 26 sterling, and that this was then called an honorable stipend." 
 
1738-1764. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 41 
 
 these scholarships, speaks of having made provision for 
 "Baptist youth to be educated for the ministry, and 
 equally regarded with Psedobaptists," and requests Mr. 
 Wheaton to inform him of any duly qualified, that he may 
 recommend them for the first vacancy. He also corre 
 sponded with the Philadelphia Association on the subject. 
 Hence the churches were fully authorized to avail them 
 selves of his generosity. This provision, however, of Mr. 
 Hollis, proved of little avail to the Baptists, in consequence 
 of the growing unfriendliness exhibited towards them 
 throughout most of the New England States. Meanwhile, 
 churches of their faith and order were rapidly multiplying ; 
 and as educated ministers could not be had in numbers 
 sufficient to supply the demand, they were compelled to 
 accept the services of men,^ who, though destitute of the 
 aids of literary and scientific culture, were nevertheless 
 taught by the Holy Spirit; and who, with hearts overflow 
 ing with love and zeal, proclaimed the precious truths of 
 the gospel with a power, unction, and success which have 
 not always been the accompaniments of a learned ministry. 
 In the year 1756, the academy at Hopewell was estab 
 lished, as we have already stated, by the Rev. Isaac Eaton, 
 a name dear to the Baptist society in America, and to all 
 true friends of learning and religion. In the welfare and 
 progress of this academy, the Philadelphia and Charleston 
 Associations ever manifested a lively interest. They ap 
 pointed certain trustees to have a general oversight of its 
 affairs, and generously contributed towards its support a 
 fund, of which the parent association furnished about four 
 hundred pounds. Under the wise supervision of its founder 
 and principal, it was continued eleven years, during which 
 time, many, who afterwards became eminent in the ministry, 
 received thereat the rudiments of an education. Among 
 4* 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 them may be mentioned, besides Manning, Dr. Samuel 
 Jones, Dr. Hezekiah Smith, Dr. Isaac Skillman, David 
 Thomas, John Davis, William Williams, Robert Keith, 
 Charles Thompson, David Jones, John Sntton, David Sut- 
 ton, James Talbot, John Blackwell, Joseph Powell, Wil 
 liam Worth, and Levi Bonnel. Not a few of Mr. Eaton s 
 students distinguished themselves in the professions of 
 medicine and law. Of this latter class was the Hon. Judge 
 Ho well, of whom we shall have occasion hereafter to make 
 frequent mention. 
 
 This attempt to introduce learning in the Baptist society 
 having succeeded beyond the most sanguine expectations 
 of its friends, the churches were encouraged to extend their 
 designs for the promotion of letters, by the establishment, 
 in some part of the colonies, of a college or university. 
 Many of them had been supplied with able pastors from 
 the academy, and had thus become convinced from expe 
 rience of the great usefulness of a classical and scientific 
 education, in more thoroughly furnishing the man of God 
 for the work of the gospel ministry. At first it seemed 
 most fitting to commence the undertaking in some one of 
 the southern colonies ; but several members of the Associa 
 tion having visited the New England States, and seen the 
 great increase of Baptist churches there, and having ascer 
 tained the fact that the government of Rhode Island 1 was 
 chiefly in the hands of those who would be likely to favor 
 
 i Mr. Edwards, in his " Materials," etc., says, " The Province of Rhode Island 
 and Providence may on some accounts be styled the Land of Baptists; " first, be 
 cause " they who settled the country were chiefly of that denomination; " second 
 ly, because :< they have always been more numerous than any other sect of Chris 
 tians which dwell therein, two fifths of the inhabitants, at least, being reputed 
 Baptists; " thirdly, because " the Baptists in this Government have always had 
 much power in their hands, both legislative and executive. Their governors, 
 deputy governors, judges, assembly men, justices, and officers (military and 
 
1738-1764. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 the design, it was determined to make the effort in that 
 colony, which originally had been settled by persons of the 
 Baptist persuasion. 
 
 On the 12th of October, 1762, the Association, now com 
 prising twenty-nine churches, met at the Lutheran Church, 
 in Fifth Street, Philadelphia. The Rev. Morgan Edwards 
 was chosen moderator, and the Rev. Abel Morgan, clerk. 
 At this meeting, says Backus, "the Association obtained 
 such an acquaintance with the affiairs of Rhode Island, as 
 to bring themselves to an apprehension that it was prac 
 ticable and expedient to erect a college in the colony of 
 Rhode Island, under the chief direction of the Baptists, in 
 which education might be promoted, and superior learning 
 obtained, free from any sectarian tests." The principal 
 mover in this matter was Morgan Edwards, to whom, with 
 the Rev. Samuel Jones, the business in general appears 
 to have been intrusted. This gentleman, who had but 
 recently been settled in Philadelphia, was a native of 
 Wales, having come to this country upon the recommend 
 ation of Dr. Gill and other prominent ministers in London. 
 He had been bred an Episcopalian, but in 1738 he embraced 
 the sentiments of the Baptists. He received his academ 
 ical education in Bristol, under Dr. Foskett, and in his 
 sixteenth year entered upon the work of the Christian 
 ministry. Possessing superior abilities, united with great 
 perseverance and zeal, he became the leader in various 
 denominational enterprises, devoting to them his time 
 and talents, and thereby rendering essential service to the 
 cause. Many of his sermons, treatises, and historical 
 
 civil) have been chiefly of that denominatibn. The last reason I shall mention 
 is, that their college is a Baptist college; the Baptists only made the motion for 
 it , the Baptists only gathered money to endow it; the head of it, and about two 
 thirds of the Fellows and Trustees, must ever be of that denomination." 
 
44: MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 works have been published. In one of them, entitled " Ma 
 terials towards a History of the Baptists in Pennsyl 
 vania," he speaks of himself as having "labored hard to 
 settle a Baptist college in Rhode Island Government, and 
 to raise money to endow it ; which he deems the greatest 
 service he has done or hopes to do for the Baptist interest." 
 This was in 1770. Mr. Edwards died on the 28th of Jan 
 uary, 1795, in the seventy-third year of his age. His funeral 
 sermon, preached by the Rev. Dr. William Rogers, was 
 published in Dr. Rippon s Anmial Register, a work printed 
 in London. This sermon gives an analysis of his charac 
 ter, 1 and an enumeration of his published writings. 
 
 1 Dr. Rogers friendly estimate of Mr. Edwards s character and influence, as 
 recorded in this sermon, was that of his brethren and associates generally. It is 
 understood, however, that Mr. Edwards s relations with the church in Philadel 
 phia during the latter part of his ministry were not entirely harmonious. In 
 1770, he preached a New Year s sermon from the text, " This year thou shalt 
 die." He had, from some unaccountable impulse, been led to believe that he 
 should die on a particular day, and this sermon was supposed by some to have 
 been intended as his own funeral sermon. This circumstance could not but 
 eflect his reputation injuriously. In addition to this, he is said to have indulged, 
 occasionally, in the excessive use of intoxicating drinks. Under these circum 
 stances, he voluntarily resigned his charge, preaching occasionally until the set 
 tlement ot his successor, Dr. Rogers, in 1772. The following extract from letters 
 addressed to the Rev. Hezekiah Smith, by the Rev. Francis Pelot, of Eutaw, 
 South Carolina, shows Mr. Edwards s position at this time in a friendly light. 
 The letter is dated Oct. 28, 1771. " I then wish " (referring to the Philadelphia 
 church) "they would agree with their Mr. Edwards again. Thus I argue to 
 myself: - If he may preach occasionally, why not steadily? Oh! but he has 
 not behaved as well as he should. I reply, There cannot be anything immoral, 
 or he would not be allowed to preach occasionally, and the mantle CHARITY, 
 would easily cover small imperfections. Besides, the present dissatisfaction, no 
 doubt, would make him more cautious for the future, and might be a means of 
 preserving the usefulness of a talented man, a man who has scarce his lellow in 
 a warm attachment to the Baptist interest. " In a letter dated April 8, 1772, Mr. 
 Pelot adds, t; We were favored with the company of Rev. Morgan Edwards at my 
 house for about u week in last January. We also had his company at our Asso 
 ciation. We all esteem him as a sensible, good man, and he left us all full of love 
 to him." 
 
 Kev. Oliver Hart, of Charleston, South Carolina, in a letter also to Mr. Smith, 
 
1738-1704. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 45 
 
 It was while on his tour through the colonies, after his 
 ordination, that Manning, to whom this enterprise had 
 been specially intrusted, first made his appearance in 
 Rhode Island, accompanied by the Rev. John Button, of 
 Elizabeth town. Both were members, at this time, of the 
 Philadelphia Association. He was now twenty-five years 
 of age, of a fine, commanding appearance, pleasing man 
 ner, and polished address. His person, says a writer, was 
 graceful, and his countenance handsome arid remarkably 
 expressive of sensibility, dignity, and cheerfulness. He 
 possessed a voice of extraordinary compass and harmony, 
 to which, in no small degree, may be ascribed the vivid 
 impression which he made upon other minds. In his 
 manners, which seemed to be the natural expression of 
 dignity and grace, he combined ease without negligence, 
 and politeness without affectation. Blest with an amiable 
 disposition, and possessing versatile colloquial powers, he 
 was most engaging and instructive as a companion. He 
 possessed, moreover, genuine piety, and a benevolence 
 which beamed in every feature. And when to all these 
 
 dated Feb. 27, 1772, thus writes : " Rev. Mr. Edwards from Philadelphia has been 
 here, and tarried with us about three weeks. He is a great good man, but some 
 say he preaches too slow." And in a second letter, written the next month, he 
 further adds, " In my last I informed you that we had the pleasure of Mr. Ed- 
 wards s company at our Association. He is a great good man ; firmly attached to 
 the Baptist interest, to promote which he cheerfully encounters all difficulties." 
 These testimonials, coming voluntarily from two of the most prominent Baptist 
 ministers of the South, show that Mr. Edwards, even at a time when his sun ap 
 peared to bo obscured, was a man highly esteemed, and that he was worthy of 
 the honor, which is accorded to him, of having been the prime mover in origi 
 nating and founding Brown University. 
 
 Mr. Edwards was twice married. His first wife was Mary Nunn, originally of 
 Cork, Ireland, by whom he had several children. His second wife was Mrs. 
 Sinclair, of Delaware, whose decease occurred previous to his own. One of liis 
 sons was a military officer in the British service. During the war he himself 
 adhered to the cause of Great Britian, and was justly ranked with the Tories; 
 although his Toryism seemed rather a matter of principle than of action. 
 
4G MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 gifts and accomplishments we add sterling good sense, for 
 which he was preeminently distinguished, and superior 
 learning, it will readily be perceived that he was well 
 fitted to act as a pioneer in the great educational work 
 before him. The history of the enterprise from this point 
 may best be given in Manning s own language, which we 
 find in a work among the manuscript writings of the Rev. 
 Morgan Edwards, entitled " Materials towards a History 
 of the Baptists in Rhode Island." 
 
 "In the month of July, 1763, we arrived at Newport, and made a 
 motion to several gentlemen of the Baptist denomination whereof Col. 
 Gardner, the Deputy Governor, was one relative to a seminary of polite 
 literature, subject to the government of the Baptists. The motion was 
 properly attended to, which brought together about fifteen gentlemen of 
 the same denomination at the deputy s house, who requested that I would 
 draw a sketch of the design, against the day following. That day came ; 
 and the said gentlemen, with other Baptists, met in the same place, when 
 a rough draught was produced and read, the tenor of which was, that 
 the institution was to be a Baptist one, but that as many of other denom 
 inations should be taken in as was consistent with the said design. 1 Ac- 
 
 1 " Never," says the Kev. Dr. Cutting, in an article in the New York Recorder, 
 published Sept. 20, 1854, which we here quote, " were men more decided in 
 religious faith than the settlers of Rhode Island. It was their positive and zeal 
 ous traits which from the four quarters of the earth sent them thither for shelter, 
 and there they contended with each other like earnest men. And yet they 
 practised mutual tolerance, because the rights of conscience were inviolable, 
 and charity was a duty and a grace. 
 
 " We suppose this to be the true spirit of Brown University in its relations to 
 religion. Providing in its charter for a majority of Baptists in its corporation, 
 it embraces in certain proportions, likewise, Episcopalians, Quakers, and Con- 
 gregationalists; not because the differences between Baptists, Episcopalians, 
 Quakers, and Congregationalists are not of importance, but because the things 
 which they hold in common, and the spirit of their common faith, furnish ample 
 ground for cooperation in the cause of polite literature. It is the honor of 
 the Baptists that, when, by the intolerance of other colonies, they were driven to 
 
738-1704. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 47 
 
 cordingly, the Hon. Josias Lyndon and Col. Job Bennet were appointed 
 to draw a charter to be laid before the next General Assembly, with a 
 petition that they would pass it into a law. But the said gentlemen 
 pleading unskilfulness touching an affair of the kind, requested that their 
 trusty friend, the Rev. Ezra, now Dr. Stiles, might be solicited to assist 
 them. This was opposed by me as unwilling to give the Doctor trouble 
 about an affair of other people ; but they urged that his love of learning 
 and Catholicism would induce him readily to give his assistance. Ac 
 cordingly their proposition was consented to, and his assistance obtained ; 
 or, rather, the draughting of the charter was left entirely to him, 1 after 
 being told that the Baptists were to have the lead in the institution, and 
 
 Rhode Island to establish their college, they proceeded at once, and of their 
 own motion, to call in the counsels of gentlemen of other denominations, and 
 to admit them to a share in the government, though their catholicity had well- 
 nigh cost them the total loss of all which they had undertaken. They did this, 
 not to merge their faith in a common indifferentism, but to illustrate a compre 
 hensive charity. They had a main ^design, and a subordinate and collateral 
 one. The main design was a Baptist college, especially for the education of 
 their ministry ; subordinate to this, and consistent with it, was the design of an 
 institution which, enlisting a common interest, should confer common blessings 
 upon other denominations and upon the State. Such a scheme was at the 
 time utterly without a parallel, and must have been regarded in the other col 
 onies with something of the amazement with which the inhabitants of Massa 
 chusetts Bay had looked, at an earlier day, upon the broad religious liberty of 
 Rhode Island and the Providence Plantations. In this original spirit, as we 
 believe, should the University be administered forever; men of diverse faiths 
 working together, not because of indiffereutism, but of charity, not as the less 
 Baptists, Episcopalians, Quakers, and Congregationalists, but as men of common 
 interests in a work which honors and blesses all. It would be a shame if such 
 an institution should not be, as always it has been, in the highest and best sense 
 catholic. In our view, if its catholicity degenerated to indifferentism, it would 
 cease to represent both the spirit and the designs of its founders." 
 
 1 Prof. Kingsley, in his Life of Dr. Stiles, states that " a committee of Baptists 
 and Congregationalists was appointed to draft a charter of a college ; and of 
 this body, Mr. Stiles and Mr. William Ellery were designated to prepare such an 
 instrument for their consideration." " It is highly probable," he further adds, 
 " from internal evidence, that the charter was drawn principally by Mr. Stiles; 
 Mr. Ellery having little concern in preparing it, except to see to the correctness 
 of the legal language. Whoever drew it, he had obviously before him the char 
 ters of Yale College, and was familiar with the questions which had arisen with 
 respect to them. The privileges secured to the University by this charter are 
 very ample; and the language of the several provisions is remarkably full, 
 
48 
 
 MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 the government thereof, forever ; and that no more of other denominations 
 were to be admitted than would be consistent with that. The charter 
 was drawn, and a time and place were appointed for the parties concerned 
 to meet and hear it read. But the vessel in which I was to sail for Hali 
 fax going off that day, prevented my being present with them long enough 
 to see whether the original design was secured ; and as the corporation 
 was made to consist of two branches, Trustees and Fellows, and these 
 branches to sit and act by distinct and separate powers, it was not easy 
 to determine, by a transient hearing, what those powers might be. The 
 Trustees were presumed to be the principal branch of authority; and 
 as nineteen out of thirty-five were to be Baptists, the Baptists were sat 
 isfied, without sufficient examination into the authority vested in the 
 fellowship, which afterwards appeared to be the soul of the institution, 
 while the trusteeship was only the body. Placing, therefore, an entire con 
 fidence in Dr. Stiles, they agreed to join in a petition to the Assembly to 
 have the charter confirmed by authority. The petition was preferred, and 
 cheerfully received, and the charter read ; after which a vote was called 
 for, and urged by some to pass into a law. But this was opposed by others, 
 particularly by Daniel Jenckes, Esq., member for Providence, who con 
 tended that the Assembly required more time to examine whether it was 
 agreeable to the design of the first movers for it, and therefore prayed 
 the house to have the perusal of it, while they adjourned for dinner. This 
 was granted, with some opposition. Then he asked the Governor, who 
 was a Baptist, whom they intended to invest with the governing power in 
 said institution ? The Governor answered, " The Baptists, by all means." 
 Then Mr. Jenckes showed him that the charter was so artfully con 
 structed as to throw the power into the Fellows hands, whereof eight out 
 
 precise, and explicit. It is, undoubtedly, in many respects, one of the best 
 college charters in New England." (See Appendix.) 
 
 From Prof. Kingsley s statements, it would appear that Baptists and Cougre- 
 gatioualists were alike interested in the movement, and that a joint committee 
 representing the two denominations was appointed to draft the charter. From 
 the statements, however, of Backus, Edwards, Manning, and Jenckes, it is evident 
 that Baptists alone were the originators of the undertaking; that Baptists alone 
 met at the Deputy Governor s house in Newport, in July, 1763; that, of their 
 number, Lyndon and Bennet were appointed to draft a charter in accordance 
 with a plan sketched by Manning; that these gentlemen, " pleading unskilful- 
 ness," requested that Dr. Stiles "might be solicited to assist them; " and that 
 this was at first opposed by Manning, who was " unwilling to give the Doctor 
 trouble about an affair of other people." 
 
1738-1764. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 49 
 
 of twelve were Presbyterians, usually called Congrcgationalists, and that 
 the other four might be of the same denomination, for aught that appeared 
 in the charter to the contrary. Convinced of this, Governor Lyndon imme 
 diately had an interview with Dr. Stiles, the Presbyterian minister of 
 Newport, and demanded why he had perverted the design of the charter. 
 The answer was, " I gave you timely warning to take care of yourselves, 
 for that we had done so with regard to our society ; " l and finally observed, 
 that " he was not the rogue." When the Assembly was convened again, 
 the said Jenckes moved that the affair might be put off to the next ses- 
 
 1 In Prof. Kingsley s Life of Dr. Stiles, to which we have already alluded, we 
 find it stated that the project of a college in Rhode Island had been the subject 
 of serious deliberation a considerable time before the charter was actually 
 granted by the Legislature, and that in this matter Dr. Stiles had taken a prom 
 inent part, collecting statistics, etc. His plan was, to unite several denominations 
 of Christians in the enterprise, both in America and in Great Britain, and thus, 
 by proper care, make the dissenting interest eventually exceed the Episcopal 
 establishment. The whole number of churches of the Congregational, Presby 
 terian, and Baptist denominations, not pnly in the colonies, but in Great Britain 
 and Ireland, he ascertained to be three thousand six hundred and thirty-eight. 
 " He supposed that all these churches might be induced to contribute to the 
 establishment and support of an institution which would so greatly subserve 
 their interests." The arrival at Newport of Mr. Manning, and the proposition 
 made by him for the establishment of a Baptist college, interfered, of course, 
 with his cherished views and plans. It is therefore not surprising that he should 
 have been unwilling to see them defeated, without a struggle on his part to 
 carry them into effect. We can understand how an attempt should have been 
 made, either by Dr. Stiles or his associates, in drafting an act of incoporation 
 for a college in Rhode Island, to pay special " regard " to the interests of their 
 own " society." That there was disappointment on both sides, and at the time 
 mutual recriminations, is evident from the narrative. Under similar circum 
 stances there doubtless would be again, human nature being very much the 
 same now as in the days of our ancestors. It is due to Dr. Stiles, to state that 
 he afterwards cherished friendly feelings towards the institution. Having been 
 elected to a fellowship in the college, and solicited by repeated deputations 
 from the corporation to accept the trust, he thus writes to the chancellor and 
 Trustees. " I was too sincere a friend to literature not to have taken part in the 
 institution at first, upon my nomination in the charter, had I not been prevented 
 by reasons which a subsequent immediate election could not remove." One of 
 the reasons assigned in this letter, as stated by Dr. Manning, in a letter to the Rev. 
 John Ryland, dated May 20, 1773, was " the offence he should give his brethren 
 should he accept it." Whatever the reasons were, they still influenced him to 
 decline the office to which he was invited, with suitable acknowledgments of the 
 politeness and respect with which he was treated on this occasion. His letter 
 
 5 
 
50 M A N N I N G A N D CHAP. I. 
 
 sion ; adding, that the motion for a college originated with the Baptists, 
 and was intended for their use, but that the charter in question was not at 
 all calculated to answer their purpose ; and since the committee intrusted 
 with this matter by the Baptists professed they had been misled, not to 
 say imposed upon, it was necessary that the Baptists in other parts of the 
 colony should be consulted previous to its passing into a law, especially 
 as few, if any of them except himself, had seen it ; and he prayed that he 
 might have a copy for the said purpose, which he promised to return. 
 All which was granted. When the charter came to be narrowly inspected, 
 it was found to be by no means answerable to the design of the agitators 
 and the instructions given the committee. Consequently, application was 
 made to the Philadelphia Association, where the thing took its rise, to 
 have their mind on the subject, who immediately sent two gentlemen 1 
 hither to join with the Baptists of this colony in making such alterations 
 and amendments as were to them specified before their departure. When 
 they arrived, Dr. Eyres 2 of Newport was added to the committee, and they 
 
 concludes with the catholic and pious wish that " the Father of lights, from 
 whom comes down every good and perfect gift, may excite the public munift" 
 cence, and raise up benefactors, through whose liberalities this institution shall 
 be completed with an ample endowment." (Holmes s Life of President Stiles, 
 page 117.) 
 
 1 On the margin of the manuscript, in the handwriting of the Rev. Dr. Jones, 
 who was Morgan Edwards s intimate friend, is the following, namely, " Why 
 their names are not mentioned, I cannot say. However, there was no one sent 
 but myself, although Mr. Robert Strettle Jones was so kind as to bear me com 
 pany to Rhode Island on the occasion. SAMUEL JONES." Mr. Jones, it will 
 be remembered, in connection with Mr. Edwards, had been intrusted by the 
 Association with the business in general of founding a Baptist college or univer 
 sity. He had, at this date, but recently been ordained in Philadelphia. He 
 was a young man of liberal education, and a ready and skilful writer; hence 
 his special fitness for the duty assigned him in this emergency. The following 
 extract from notes to a century sermon delivered by him before the Philadel 
 phia Baptist Association, Oct. 6, 1807, nearly fifty years afterwards, shows the 
 manner in which he performed his mission : " In the fall of 1763, the writer of 
 these sheets, on request, repaired to Newport in Rhode Island, and new-modelled 
 a rough draught they had of a charter of incorporation for a college, which 
 soon after obtained legislative sanction." 
 
 2 Thomas Eyres, a physician, the first secretary of the corporation, and a 
 Fellow of the college from 1764 until his death in 1788. He was graduated at 
 Yale College, in the Class of 1754. His father, Elder Nicholas Eyres, was pastor 
 of the Second Baptist Church in Newport from 1731 until his death, Feb. 13, 
 1759. (See Backus.) 
 
1738-1701. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 51 
 
 happily draughted the present charter, and lodged it, with a new petition, 
 in proper hands. The most material alterations were, appointing the 
 same number of Baptists in the fellowship that had been appointed of 
 the Presbyterians, by Dr. Stiles ; settling the presidency in the Baptist 
 society ; adding five Baptists to the Trustees, and putting more Episcopa 
 lians than Presbyterians in the corporation." 
 
 Among the alterations not here enumerated by Manning, 
 were, electing the President by the corporation instead 
 of exclusively by the Trustees ; providing for convoking 
 an assembly of the corporation on twenty days notice 
 instead of six ; making five a quorum of the Board of 
 Fellows instead of eight ; and striking out the clause 
 making the places of Trustees or Fellows who should re 
 move out of the State, vacant. By confining membership 
 in the corporation to persons residing within the limits of 
 the colony, the original charter excluded the originators 
 and founders of the college. Hence, in the list of names 
 proposed by Dr. Stiles to be incorporated, the following, 
 which we find in the printed charter, as suggested by the 
 committee, are omitted; namely, Rev, Morgan Edwards, 
 Rev. Samuel Jones, Rev. James Manning, Rev. Isaac Eaton, 
 Rev. John Gano, Rev. Samuel Stillman, Rev. Jeremiah 
 Condy, and Robert Strettle Jones, Esq. The names of 
 Hezekiah Smith, Isaac Backus, William Williams, and 
 others from out of the State, who rendered such signal 
 service in the early history of the college, would also have 
 been excluded from membership in the corporation by the 
 charter as originally drafted. (See Appendix.) 
 
 Mr. Jenckes, to whom Manning refers in his Narrative, 
 was a wealthy merchant of Providence, and an active mem 
 ber of the Baptist church. He died July 7, 1774, in the 
 seventy-third year of his age, having continued, says the 
 record, a church-member forty-eight years " without cen- 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 sure." He was for forty years a member of the General 
 Assembly, and for nearly thirty years Chief Justice of 
 the Providence County Court. His daughter Rhoda was 
 the mother of the Hon. Nicholas Brown, from whom the 
 University derives it name, and also of the late Mrs. Hope 
 Ives, after whom Hope College was named. Among the 
 manuscript writings of Morgan Edwards, we also find, in 
 the same volume from which Manning s Narrative is taken, 
 a history of the college charter, by Judge Jenckes, which 
 we here give, as follows : 
 
 "While I attended the business of the Assembly, held August, 1763, 
 Capt. William Rogers came to the Council Chamber and presented me 
 with a paper, with a design I should sign it ; adding, that, as it was a peti 
 tion for a Baptist college, he knew I would not refuse. Business not 
 permitting me to attend to it immediately, I requested he would leave 
 with me the petition and charter. Meanwhile, the sergeant made procla 
 mation requiring the members to take their seats. In my seat I began to 
 read the papers, but had not done before the petition and charter were 
 called for, which I gave to the sergeant, and he to the speaker at the 
 board. The petition being read, a motion was made to receive it, and 
 grant the charter. After some time I stood up to oppose, proceeding 
 immediately on the petition, giving my reason in words to this effect. 
 I understood that the college in question was sought for by the Baptists ; 
 and that it was to be under their government and direction, with the 
 admission only of a few of other religious denominations to share with 
 them therein, that they might appear as catholic as could be, consistent 
 with their main design ; but, on the contrary, I perceived by glancing over 
 the charter, while I sat in my place just now, that the main power and 
 direction is vested in twelve Fellows, and that. eight out of the twelve are 
 to be Presbyterians ; and that the others may or may not be of the same 
 denomination ; but of necessity, none of them are to be Baptists. If so, 
 there is treachery somewhere, and a design of gossly imposing on the 
 honest people who first moved for the institution. I desire, therefore, that 
 
1738-1701. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 53 
 
 the matter may lie by till the afternoon. This was granted. In the 
 afternoon the matter was resumed, with a seeming resolution in some to 
 push it through at all events ; but I had influence enough to stop proceed 
 ings then also. That evening and the next morning, I made it my busi 
 ness to see Governor Lyndon and Col. Bonnet, and to inform them of the 
 construction of the charter. They could not believe me, for the confidence 
 they had in Dr. Stiles s honor and integrity, until seeing convinced them ; 
 what reflections followed may be better concealed than published. How 
 ever, we all agreed to postpone passing the charter into a law, and did 
 effect our purpose for that session, notwithstanding the attempts of Mr. 
 Ellcry and others of the Presbyterians to the contrary. Before the break 
 ing up of the Assembly, the house, at my request, directed the speaker to 
 deliver the charter to me, after I had made a promise it should be forth 
 coming at the next meeting of the Assembly. 
 
 I took the charter to Providence, and showed it to many who came to 
 my house ; others borrowed it to peruse at home. Meanwhile, the messen 
 gers from the Philadelphia Association arrived in Newport, which occa 
 sioned the committee of Newport te send to me for the charter. I asked 
 for it of Dr. Ephraim Bowen, who had borrowed it last. The Doctor said 
 he lent it to Samuel Nightingale, Esq. Search was made for it there, but 
 it could not be found ; neither do I know to this clay what became of it. 1 
 When the next General Assembly met (last Wednesday in October, 1763), 
 the second charter was presented ; which was much faulted, and opposed 
 by the gentry who concerned themselves so warmly about the other. And 
 one in particular demanded that the first charter, which had been in 
 trusted to me, might be produced. Then I related, as above, that it was 
 lost, and the manner how it was lost ; but the party, instead of believing 
 this, very rudely suggested that I had secreted the charter, and in the 
 
 i This important document, which was lost for nearly a century, has re 
 cently been placed among the archives of the University. It was found, some 
 twenty years since, among the files and papers of the church over which Dr. 
 Stiles presided. It is in the handwriting of the author, and was evidently copied 
 from the " rough draft " with great care. A careful comparison of this docu 
 ment with the charter which was finally granted by the General Assembly, fully 
 confirms all the statements in reference thereto made by Manning and Jenckes. 
 It shows also how much the University is indebted to Dr. Stiles for the phrase 
 ology of the instrument that gave it an existence, and for the fulness and pre 
 cision with which all its privileges are granted and its provisions stated. The 
 document is published in the Appendix, with the changes made by the commit 
 tee or " messengers." 
 
54 MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 face of the court charged me with a breach of trust ; which brought on 
 very disagreeable altercations and bickerings, until, at last, I was necessi 
 tated to say, that if there had been any foul doings, it was amongst 
 them of their own denomination at Providence. Their clamors contin 
 ued ; and we gave way to them that session for peace sake. Meanwhile, 
 Dr. Bowcn, who is a man of strict honor and integrity, used all means to 
 recover the former charter, posting an advertisement in the most public 
 places in town, and making diligent inquiry ; but to no purpose. At the 
 next Assembly, which met in February, 1764, the new charter was again 
 brought on the carpet ; and the same clamor against it, and unjust re 
 proaches against me, were repeated. It was said that the new charter was 
 not like the old, and was constructed to deprive the Presbyterians of the 
 benefit of the institution. To which it was replied, that it was agreeable 
 to the designs of the first undertakers, and if calculated to deprive the 
 Presbyterians of the power they wanted, it was no more than what they 
 themselves had attempted to do to the Baptists. After much and warm 
 debate, the question was put and carried in favor of the new charter, by a 
 great majority." 
 
 From the foregoing accounts, or narratives, it appears, 
 (1) That President Manning drew up a plan of the college, 
 and presented it to a company of Baptist gentlemen, at 
 Newport, in the month of July, 1763. (2) That the Hon. 
 Josias Lyndon and Colonel Job Bennet were appointed 
 to draw a charter, in accordance with said plan, to be 
 laid before the next General Assembly, with a petition 
 that it might be made a law. (3) That the assistance of 
 the Rev. Dr. Stiles, afterwards President of Yale College, 
 was solicited and obtained. (4) That the drafting of the 
 charter was left entirely to Dr. Stiles ; and that lie, in turn, 
 was assisted by the Hon. William Ellery. (5) That the 
 charter was accordingly drawn, and a time and place were 
 appointed for the parties concerned to meet and hear it 
 read. (6) That Manning, being obliged to leave on that 
 day for Halifax, was unable to be with the committee long 
 enough to see whether the original design was secured, 
 
1738-1701. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 55 
 
 and that the Baptists, being satisfied, without sufficient 
 examination into the authority vested in the fellowship, 
 and reposing entire confidence in Dr. Stiles, agreed to join 
 in a petition to the General Assembly to have the charter 
 confirmed by authority. (7) That the petition and charter 
 were accordingly presented to the General Assembly in 
 August, 1763, but that action thereon was postponed until 
 the next session, through the influence of the Hon. Daniel 
 Jenckes,the attempts of Mr. Ellery and others of the Pres 
 byterians to the contrary notwithstanding. (8) That the 
 charter was found on inspection to be so drawn as to vest 
 the main power and direction of the institution in a board 
 of twelve Fellows, eight of whom were to be Presbyte 
 rians, and the other four of the same denomination, for 
 aught that appeared to the contrary ; and that in general 
 it did not answer to the original design. (9) That in this 
 emergency application was made to the Philadelphia 
 Association, " where the thing took its rise," to have their 
 mind on the subject. (10) That they immediately sent to 
 Newport the Rev. Samuel Jones, who was accompanied 
 by Robert Strettle Jones, and that when they arrived, Dr. 
 Eyres, of Newport, was added to the committee. (11) That, 
 meanwhile, the original copy of the charter, presented to 
 the General Assembly in August, which had been intrusted 
 by that body to Mr. Jenckes, had been lost. (12) That 
 the committee found at Newport a rough draft of a char 
 ter, which they happily remodelled, and that the most 
 material alterations were, appointing the same number of 
 Baptists in the fellowship that had been appointed of the 
 Presbyterians by Dr. Stiles; settling the presidency in 
 the Baptist society; adding five Baptists to the Trus 
 tees; putting more Episcopalians than Presbyterians in 
 the corporation ; and extending the membership of the 
 
^ MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 corporation to persons residing out of the colony or state. 
 From all this it is evident that the "rough draft" which 
 the last committee remodelled was the one originally 
 drawn by Dr. Stiles, and presented to the first committee 
 in July, and from which a copy was undoubtedly made 
 for the General Assembly. This copy, as we have already 
 remarked, has recently been found among the archives of 
 Dr. Stiles s church, and is now in the possession of the 
 University. 
 
 That the college owes its origin to the efforts of men 
 who were members of the Philadelphia Association, is ev 
 ident from its history thus far. The following extracts 
 from the minutes of this venerable body show the interest 
 which it continued to manifest in the welfare and prog 
 ress of an institution which it had aided in bringing into 
 being : 
 
 1764. "Agreed, to inform the churches to which we respectively belong, 
 that, inasmuch as a charter is obtained in Rhode Island Government 
 towards erecting a Baptist college, the churches should be liberal in con 
 tributing towards carrying the same into execution." 1766. " Agreed, to 
 recommend warmly to our churches the interest of the college, for which 
 a subscription is opened all over the continent. This college hath been 
 set on foot upwards of a year, and has now in it three promising youths 
 under the tuition of President Manning." 1767. " Agreed, that Rev. Isaac 
 Eaton, and John Hart, Esq., executors of Mrs. Hubs s will, be allowed 
 to pay 14 towards the education of Charles Thompson (student in Rhode 
 Island College) out of the interest of the legacy left by said Mrs. Hubs 
 for the use of the Association in Philadelphia." "Agreed, that the 
 churches be requested to forward the subscription for Rhode Island Col 
 lege." 1769. " We received pleasing accounts from Rhode Island College. 
 Seven commenced this fall. The colony has raised 1200 towards the 
 building, which will be begun early in the spring. About 1000, lawful 
 currency of New England, have been sent us from home (Great Britain) 
 towards making up a salary for the President ; and all the ministers of 
 this Association have explicitly engaged to exert themselves in endeavor- 
 
1738-1764. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 57 
 
 ing to raise money for the same purpose." " Resolved, That the moneys 
 which may be raised in the provinces of New York, New Jersey, and 
 Pennsylvania, shall be put to interest, in those provinces, and not be taken 
 out of either ; except the interest which shall be subject to the order of 
 the college to pay the President s salary, and for no other use. The per 
 sons appointed for receiving the donations are : In New York, the Rev. 
 John Gano ; in the Jerseys, John Stites, Esq. ; in Pennsylvania, the 
 Rev. Morgan Edwards. They are to see that the securities be sufficient, 
 and that the bonds, mortgages, etc., be deposited with the treasurer of the 
 college." " Voted, That 14, Jersey currency, be given Mr. Thomas 
 Eustick. towards defraying his expenses at the college," etc. 
 
 1774. "The minutes and letters from Charleston Association, South 
 Carolina, were read. The plan adopted by them respecting Rhode Isl 
 and College, recommended to us." " Agreed, to recommend the same 
 to the churches we stand respectively related unto ; and that our brethren 
 John Gano and William Rogers receive the moneys so raised, and remit 
 the same to Colonel Job Bonnet, treasurer." " The money raised for in 
 creasing the fund of Rhode Island, College is as follows : The church 
 at New York raised above what was proposed by the plan adopted; 
 church of Cohansie, 15s. ; church at Salem, 4s. 6d. ; Hugh Glassford, 7s. ; 
 Andrew Bray, 5s. The last four sums above mentioned were received by 
 Brother William Rogers." 
 
 1782. " Voted, That the seventh article of the Warren Association 
 Minutes be adopted by us, which is as follows : " The Association, from a 
 representation made to them by the corporation of the college in Provi 
 dence of the low state of the funds of said college, and the urgent neces 
 sity of increasing them, in order to support suitable instructors therein, 
 and from an idea of the great importance of good education, have taken 
 into consideration, as the most probable method to accomplish this valu 
 able end, the recommendation of a subscription throughout all the Bap 
 tist societies on this continent, as well as to all the friends of literature of 
 every denomination, on the following conditions : 
 
 " We, the subscribers, promise and engage to pay the several sums 
 
 affixed to our names, to , to be by him paid to John Brown, Esq., of 
 
 Providence, treasurer of the corporation, or his successor in said office, or 
 order, to be placed at interest, and the interest only to be applied for the 
 above purpose. 
 
 "N. B. The several churches are desired to insert in the above blank 
 the name of the most suitable person in the society for this service." 
 
58 MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 The plan proposed by the Association in Charleston, 
 S. C., for raising a fund for Rhode Island College, and 
 adopted by the Philadelphia Association in 1774, as we 
 learn from the foregoing extracts, and also during the 
 same year by the Warren Association, was, in the language 
 of the record, the " recommending to every member to pay 
 sixpence sterling, annually, for three years successively, 
 to their elder, or some suitable person : this money to be 
 paid to the treasurer of the college." At the same time, 
 the Rev. Messrs. John Gano, Oliver Hart, and Francis 
 Pelot were appointed, says Benedict, to address the Bap 
 tist associations throughout America, and urge their co 
 operation in these efforts to raise funds for the college. 
 In reading this record, we are amused at the gravity with 
 which a body of men recommended the payment of so 
 small a sum as sixpence, or twelve and one half cents, 
 towards endowing an institution of learning, especially 
 when we contrast this with the princely benefactions of 
 later days. But further reflection soon changes any dis 
 position of this kind into a feeling of respect, and even of 
 admiration. The Baptists of that early period were, as a 
 people, poor, and, as Dr. Manning in one of his letters 
 adds, " despised and oppressed." The gifts and offerings 
 which they thus contributed for the college were from the 
 "res angusta domi" from " pious enlightened penury," to 
 the noblest of all causes, the advancement of human learn 
 ing. All honor for the zeal and perseverance, the sacri 
 fices and the prayers, of these early friends of the college! 
 Were their spirit emulated by their descendants, how 
 soon would the resources of our public institutions be 
 augmented, and their means of influence largely increased ! 
 
 But to return. The charter finally granted by the Gen 
 eral Assembly, out of which, says Mr. Edwards, "the 
 
1738-1764. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 59 
 
 Baptists narrowly escaped being jockied by a set of men 
 in whom they reposed full confidence," is now, and must 
 forever continue to be, the unalterable constitution of the 
 college or university. x By it the corporation is made to 
 consist of two branches; namely, that of the Trustees and 
 that of the Fellows, with distinct, separate, and respective 
 powers. The Trustees are thirty-six in number, of whom 
 twenty-two are forever to be elected of the denomination 
 called Baptists or Antipaedobaptists, five of the denomina 
 tion called Friends or Quakers, five of the denomination 
 called Episcopalians, and four of the denomination called 
 Congregation alists. These were the denominations of New 
 England a century ago. The number of the Fellows, in 
 cluding the President, who must always be a Fellow, is 
 twelve, of whom eight are forever to be elected of the 
 denomination called Baptists, and the rest indifferently of 
 any or all denominations. The President must forever be 
 a Baptist. Once in three years the corporation, at its 
 annual meetings, must choose from among the Trustees a 
 chancellor of the university, and a treasurer; and from 
 among the Fellows, a secretary. The office of the chancel 
 lor is merely to preside as moderator of the Trustees ; the 
 President, or, in his absence, the senior Fellow, being the 
 moderator of the Fellows. The instruction and immediate 
 government of the college is, and must forever continue to 
 rest in the President and Fellows, or fellowship, to whom, 
 as a "learned faculty," belongs exclusively the privilege 
 of adjudging and conferring the academical degrees. 
 
 This charter, although it secures to the Baptists, as al 
 ready stated, the control of the college, recognizes repeat 
 edly, and in most unequivocal terms, the grand principles 
 of religious freedom, for which the descendants of Roger 
 Williams, and all true Baptists of every ago, have always 
 
CO M A X X I X G A X D CHAP. I. 
 
 resolutely contended. Some of its provisions are as fol 
 lows : 
 
 And, furthermore, it is hereby enacted and declared, That into this lib 
 eral and catholic institution shall never be admitted any religious tests ; 
 but, on the contrary, all the members hereof shall forever enjoy full, free, 
 absolute, and uninterrupted liberty of conscience: And that the places of 
 professors, tutors, and all other officers, the President alone excepted, 
 shall be free and open for all denominations of Protestants : And that youth 
 of all religious denominations shall and may be freely admitted to the equal 
 advantages, emoluments, and honor of the college or university, and shall 
 receive a like fair, generous, and equal treatment during their residence 
 therein thcv conducting themselves peaceably, and conforming to the 
 laws and statutes thereof : And that the public teaching shall, in general, 
 respect the sciences : And that the sectarian differences of opinions shall 
 not make any part of the public and classical instruction ; although all 
 religious controversies may be studied freely, examined, and explained by 
 the President, professors, and tutors, in a personal, separate, and distinct 
 manner, to the youth of any or each denomination : And, above all, a 
 constant regard shall be paid to, and effectual care taken of, the morals 
 of the college. 
 
 The statutes of the college have been framed from time 
 to time in accordance with the spirit of this charter. So 
 long ago as 1783, those students who regularly observed 
 the seventh day as the Sabbath, were exempted from the 
 operation of the law which required every student, as a 
 moral duty, to attend public worship on the first day of 
 the week. Those who statedly attended the Friends 
 meeting were expressly " permitted to wear their hats 
 within the college walls," etc., and " young gentlemen 
 of the Hebrew persuasion " were formally exempted from 
 the operation of the law which commanded, on penalty of 
 expulsion, that no student should deny the divine author 
 ity of the Old and New Testaments. And yet more, in 
 
173S-17C1. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 61 
 
 1770, the corporation of the college declared, as appears 
 from the records, that " the children of Jews may be ad 
 mitted into this institution, and entirely enjoy the free 
 dom of their own religion, without any constraint or impo 
 sition whatever." These provisions of the charter, and of 
 the statutes of the college, manifest, says a distinguished 
 writer, a " delicate regard for the rights of conscience, for 
 which, it is believed, hardly a parallel can be found in the 
 history of similar institutions." 
 
 And to " this liberal and catholic institution" the youth 
 of all religious denominations have freely resorted, during 
 the first century of its existence, for their education. Not 
 a few of the prominent religious teachers and theologians 
 connected with our various Christian sects or societies, 
 throughout the land, received their permanent serious im 
 pressions during the revivals with which the college or 
 university has, from its beginning, been graciously visited. 
 
 We close this chapter with the following extract from 
 Backus s Church History of New England. Were the 
 work generally accessible to the reading public, a mere 
 reference might answer our purpose ; which is, to remove, 
 as far as possible, all doubts in regard to the origin of this 
 venerable seat of learning. It is, as will be seen, a brief 
 recapitulation of the leading facts in the early history of 
 the college, and serves to establish and confirm the state 
 ments already presented. The accuracy of Backus as an 
 historian has never, we believe, been questioned. Ban 
 croft awards to him the highest praise. Being in the 
 prime and vigor of life when the college was established, 
 and one of the first Trustees, he was, of course, familiar with 
 all the facts pertaining to its origin and early progress. 
 6 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. I. 
 
 EXTRACT FROM BACKUS. 
 
 " The uppermost party among Christians have ever had the command 
 of all colleges, to educate religious teachers, as well as other men of supe 
 rior learning, until very lately. Even in 1780, no ministers but Congrega 
 tional ministers were allowed to be Overseers of the University at Cam 
 bridge, by the Massachusetts constitution of government. And great 
 sums have been given to that University by the government, from time to 
 time, ever since it began in 1638. But as Providence and Rhode Island 
 Colony was planted by men who were banished from the Massachusetts, 
 because they conscientiously dissented from the use of force in religious 
 affairs, and that colony suffered amazingly from neighbor colonies for 
 more than an hundred years, the people have grown up with great preju 
 dices against colleges, and against obeying the laws of Christ for the sup 
 port of his ministers. Bat as a minister hath died this year (Dr. Man 
 ning) who has done much towards removing those prejudices, I shall give 
 a concise account of the affair. Mr. Isaac Eaton, who was pastor of the 
 Baptist Church at Hopewell in New Jersey from 1748 to 1772, set up a 
 school for the education of youth for the ministry, as well as for other 
 callings, in 1756, and kept it for eleven years. One of his scholars was Mr. 
 James Manning, who went from his school to the college at Princeton, 
 where he took his first degree in September, 1762. And as the Philadel 
 phia Association were for erecting a college in Khode Island Government, 
 they fixed their eyes upon him as a proper leader in the affair. He there 
 fore called in at Newport, on his voyage to Halifax, in July, 1763, and 
 proposed the matter to a number of Baptist gentlemen, who readily con 
 curred therewith ; and as they had a high opinion of a learned Congrega 
 tional minister among them, they desired him to make a draught of a 
 charter for a college in that Government. It was proposed to take in some 
 members of the several denominations among them, but that the Baptists 
 should always be the majority of the corporation. He drew a charter, 
 which appeared to be upon this plan, and it was introduced into their leg 
 islature ; but a Baptist gentleman discerned that there was a door left 
 open for the Congregational denomination to become the majority here 
 after. Therefore the charter was not then passed into a law ; and when 
 their legislature met again, the charter was not to be found. When this 
 was heard of at Philadelphia, two gentlemen were sent from thence, who 
 assisted in drawing a new charter, which was established by the legisla 
 ture of Rhode Island, in February, 1764." 
 
CHAPTER II. 
 
 1704-1769. 
 
 First Meeting of the Corporation, at Newport Character of the twenty-four 
 members present, representing the four religious denominations recognized 
 in the Charter Manning removes with his family to Warren Begins a 
 Latin School, now the " University Grammar School " Employs a part of his 
 time in preaching Formation of the Warren Baptist Church Appointed 
 President of the College Extract from a Letter of Rev. Isaac Backus to Dr. 
 Gill of London Suggests the formation of the Warren Association Diffi 
 culties to be overcome First Meeting of the Association, in 17G7 Letter 
 from the Philadelphia Association *- Second and third Meetings Sentiments 
 and Plan of the Warren Association as drawn up by Manning Plan to col 
 lect grievances Character and influence of the Association Manning s 
 prominence and usefulness as a member of the two Associations Circular 
 Letter by Manning Letter to Hon. David Howell Howell appointed Tutor 
 of the College Sketch of his Character First Commencement of the Col 
 legeAccount from the Providence Gazette Eev. Morgan Edwards s efforts 
 in England and Ireland to secure funds for the College Biographical Sketches 
 of members of the first Graduating Class: Eev. Dr. William Rogers, Hon- 
 James Mitchell Varnum, Kev. Charles Thompson, Rev. William Williams. 
 
 THE first meeting of the "Corporation for founding and 
 endowing a College or University within the Colony of 
 Rhode Island and Providence Plantations in New England 
 in America," was held at Newport, on the first Wednes 
 day in September, 1764. From this point, therefore, the 
 commencement of the college properly dates. At this 
 meeting the following gentlemen, twenty-four in number, 
 as appears from the records, were present, and qualified 
 themselves by taking the oath prescribed by the charter ; 
 namely, Hon. Stephen Hopkins, Hon. Joseph Wanton, 
 Hon. Samuel Ward, John Tillinghast, Simon Pease, James 
 
6 4 M A N N I N G AND CHAP. II. 
 
 Honeyman, Nicholas Enston, Nicholas Tillinghast, Daniel 
 Jenckes, Nicholas Brown, Joshua Babcock, John G. Wan 
 ton, Rev. Edward Upharn, Rev. Jeremiah Condy, Rev. 
 Gardner Thurston, Rev. John Maxson, Rev. Samuel Win- 
 sor, Rev. James Manning, Josias Lyndon, Job Bennet, Jr., 
 Ephraim Bowen, Edward Thurston, Jr., Thomas Eyres, 
 and Peleg Barker. The Hon. Stephen Hopkins, Esq., was 
 chosen chancellor, John Tillinghast, Esq., treasurer, and 
 Dr. Thomas Eyres, secretary. The form of a certificate, 
 authorizing persons to receive donations for the college, was 
 adopted, and also the form of a receipt therefor. A " Pre 
 amble " was adopted, setting forth the nature and design 
 of the institution, and its need of funds. Committees to re 
 ceive subscriptions for the college were appointed through 
 out Rhode Island, in the southern and western parts of the 
 continent, and in the States of Massachusetts and Con 
 necticut. Committees were also appointed to provide a 
 seal for the use of the corporation, and to assist in digest 
 ing and recording the proceedings of the meeting. 
 
 It is interesting, in this connection, to observe the char 
 acter of the men, who, a century ago, met for the first 
 time, as a corporate body, to transact business for the col 
 lege. Of the four religious denominations recognized in 
 the charter, the Congregationalists were represented by 
 Dr. Ephraim Bowen, one of the most distinguished physi 
 cians in Providence previous to the Revolutionary War. 
 To him, Lieut. Gov. Arnold, in his History of Rhode Island, 
 ascribes the peculiar honor of originating a patriotic order, 
 composed of the gentler sex, known as the "Daughters of 
 Liberty." The Episcopalians were represented by Gov 
 ernor Joseph Wanton and Hon. James Honeyman, both 
 residents of Newport, and gentlemen of culture, wealth, 
 and high social position. The former was first elected 
 
1704-1769. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. G5 
 
 Governor in the year 1769. He continued to fill the office 
 from year to year, with great acceptance, until 1775, when 
 he was suspended by the General Assembly for disloyalty. 
 Mr. Honeyman was the son of the Rev. James Honeyman, 
 Rector of Trinity Church, Newport. He was an able 
 lawyer and a prominent politician, filling many high offices 
 in the State. For many years he was Advocate General 
 of the Court of Vice Admiralty for the colony, having been 
 appointed to this office by the British Government. The 
 Quakers or Friends were represented by the Hon. Stephen 
 Hopkins, John G. Wanton, Edward Thurston, and Nicho 
 las Easton. No name is more prominent in the history 
 of this period than that of Hopkins, and few men of any 
 period have exerted so wide an influence upon the desti 
 nies of the country. For nearly forty-five years, as chief 
 justice, governor, member of Congress, legislator, or repre 
 sentative, he was engaged in some kind of official duty 
 connected with the town, the State, or the national Con 
 gress. His name appears among the signers of the Decla 
 ration of Independence. The office of chancellor of the 
 corporation, to which he was elected at this first meeting, 
 he held until his death, in 1785, a period of twenty-one 
 years. He was a warm personal friend of President Man 
 ning, and, by his extensive learning and genuine love of 
 literature, proved a most efficient coadjutor in all the plans 
 and efforts of the latter for the efficiency and usefulness of 
 the college. Mr. Wanton was an opulent merchant of 
 Newport, and was allied by blood and affinity with the 
 wealthiest and most popular families in the colony. The 
 name of Nicholas Easton appears in Arnold s History of 
 Rhode Island, as a member of the General Assembly from 
 Middletown, in the year 1776. He was probably a de 
 scendant of Governors Nicholas and John Easton. Of 
 6* 
 
66 MANNING AND CHAP. II. 
 
 Thurston we have been unable to ascertain anything defi 
 nite. He was a trustee, as appears from the Triennial 
 Catalogue, until the year 1782. The remaining seventeen 
 members of the corporation were Baptists, or, as they are 
 also designated in the charter, Antipaedobaptists. They 
 were mostly from the towns of Providence, Newport, 
 Warren, Westerly, and Boston. Among them we notice 
 Samuel Ward, the popular Governor of Rhode Island 
 during the years 1762, 1765, and 1766, a Justice also of 
 the Supreme Court, and one of the most influential mem 
 bers of the First Congress, in 1774 (his Life, written by 
 Prof. Gammell, is published in Spark s American Biog 
 raphy) ; Judge Daniel Jenckes, a brief sketch of whom 
 has already been given in connection with the history of 
 the college charter ; Josias Lyndon, who, in^ 1768, was 
 elected Governor, by an overwhelming majority of nearly 
 fifteen hundred ; Nicholas Brown, the distinguished mer 
 chant and liberal benefactor of the college, and also father of 
 the Hon. Nicholas Brown, after whom the institution was 
 finally named ; Rev. Edward Upham, pastor of the First 
 Church at Newport, and a graduate of Harvard College, 
 in the class of 1734 ; Rev. Gardner Thurston, an intimate 
 friend and associate of Dr. Stiles ; Rev. Jeremiah Condy, 
 of Boston, also a graduate of Harvard College, in the 
 class of 1721 ; Dr. Joshua Babcock, of Westerly, who, in 
 1775, was appointed a major-general of the Rhode Island 
 militia, and who also held various public offices of respon 
 sibility and trust ; and Dr. Thomas Eyres, of Newport, who 
 held the office of secretary of the corporation until the 
 breaking out of the Revolutionary War. 
 
 In the records of subsequent meetings of the corporation, 
 previous to the removal of the college to Providence, we 
 find among the Baptist members the names also of Rev. 
 
1764-1769. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 67 
 
 Morgan Edwards of Philadelphia, Rev. Hezekiah Smith 
 of Haverhill, Rev. Samuel Stillman of Boston, Rev. John 
 Gano of New York, Rev. Isaac Backus of Middleborough, 
 Rev. John Davis of Boston, Rev. Russell Mason of Swanzey, 
 Nathan Spear of Boston, Sylvester Child of Warren, and 
 Joseph, brother of Nicholas Brown, of Providence. Among 
 the Episcopal members we find the names of Rev. George 
 Bisset of Newport, Joseph Russell and George Hazard 
 Esquires. The last named was mayor of Newport, and for 
 upwards of thirty years was a member of the State Legisla 
 ture. Among the Quakers, Jonathan Easton, a physician. 
 Among the Congregationalists, Nicholas Cook, for several 
 years Governor of the colony, and Jabez Bowen, LL.D., 
 Deputy Governor. The latter succeeded Gov. Hopkins 
 as chancellor of the college. , 
 
 During the spring previous to this first meeting of the 
 corporation, Manning had removed with his family to 
 Warren, a pleasant town in Bristol County, R. I., about 
 ten miles from Providence. Here he at once opened a 
 Latin school, with an ultimate view to the commencement 
 of college instruction. This school, which soon became 
 flourishing, he continued to teach or superintend for many 
 years, in connection with his professional duties and call- 
 ino-. It was removed to Providence in 1770, and, upon 
 
 O 
 
 the completion of "University Hall," to rooms in that 
 building. In 1810, a brick house for its accommodation 
 was erected by the friends of the college, under the direc 
 tion of a committee of the corporation, consisting of 
 Thomas P. Ives, Moses Lippitt, and Thomas Lloyd Halsey. 
 It is now called the " University Grammar School," and is 
 taught by Messrs. Merrick and Emory Lyon, they having 
 the entire responsibility of its management. This school 
 has ever been an efficient auxiliary to the college or uni 
 versity. 
 
G8 
 
 MANNING AND CHAP. II. 
 
 At the time of Manning s arrival in Warren, there were 
 nearly sixty Baptist communicants residing in that town, 
 the majority of whom were members of the venerable 
 church in Swanzey. The population of the village was 
 then rapidly increasing, and the time seemed to have ar 
 rived when they could best secure their religious interests 
 by forming themselves into a separate and independent 
 body, instead of being considered as a branch of the mother 
 church. It was this fact, perhaps, which determined the 
 first location of the college. Without funds it could not, 
 of course, in its feeble beginning, support itself. It seemed 
 therefore desirable to connect it with some church, over 
 which its President should be pastor, that he might there 
 by derive an income sufficient for the maintenance of his 
 family. The time and circumstances pointed to Warren 
 as the place for this design, and accordingly Manning set 
 tled himself here, 1 and, while engaged in teaching, employed 
 also a portion of his time in preaching to the people the 
 gospel. His zeal and eloquence soon attracted a numerous 
 congregation. The fruits of his ministry were apparent, 
 and not a few persons became believers in Christ and were 
 baptized. On the 15th day of November, 1764, a church 
 of fifty-eight members was duly organized and constituted. 
 By previous appointment, they had engaged the Rev. John 
 Gano of New York, the Rev. Gardner Thurston of New 
 port, and the Rev. Ebenezer Hinds of Middleborough, 
 Mass., to assist in the proposed undertaking. The day 
 
 1 In an early diary of the Rev. Dr. Hezekiab Smith, we find the following: 
 " Saturday, April 21, 1764. I went to Warren (from Newport) with Mrs. Man 
 ning, Esq. Coles, Capt. Wheaton, and Mr. Lillibridge. Sabbath, 22. Preached 
 in Littletown in Warren, from John iii. 4, two sermons. Staid in Warren till 
 Wednesday, 25th, at Esq. Coles s." 
 
 Mr. Smith, it appears, with Mr. and Mrs. Manning, left New York for New 
 port, Wednesday, April 11. They reached Newport on the 13th. when Mr. Man 
 ning proceeded at once to Warren. 
 
1764-1769. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 GO 
 
 being kept in the solemn exercise of fasting and prayer, 
 " in the forenoon," says the record, " Mr. Thurston preached 
 a sermon, and after a short intermission of service, the 
 people returned, and Messrs. Gano, Manning, and Hinds 
 each made a prayer suitable to the occasion, after which 
 the church covenant, previously prepared by Mr. Manning, 
 was presented and read." 
 
 This covenant, the original of which, in Manning s hand 
 writing, is still in existence, we here present, as follows : 
 
 COVENANT OF THE BAPTIST CHUKCH, WAKKEN, E. I. 
 
 Whereas we, unworthy sinners, through the infinite riches of free 
 grace, as we trust, brought out of darkness into the marvellous light of 
 the gospel, and the grace of it, transformed into the kingdom of God s 
 dear Son Jesus Christ our only Lord and Saviour, and made partakers of 
 all those privileges which Christ purchased with his precious blood, think 
 it our duty, and the greatest privilege we can enjoy here on earth, to walk 
 in all the commandments and ordinances, not only for our own comfort 
 and peace, but for the manifestation of the glory of God and for the mu 
 tual help and society of each other ; and as it hath pleased God to appoint 
 a visible church relation, to be the way and manner whereby he is pleased 
 to communicate to his people the blessings of his presence, a growth in 
 grace, and furtherance in the knowledge of our Lord God 
 
 We, therefore, this day, after solemn fasting and prayer for help and 
 direction, in the fear of His holy name, and with hearts lifted up to the 
 most high God, humbly and freely offer up ourselves a living sacrifice unto 
 him who is our God, in covenant, through Jesus Christ, to walk together 
 according to his revealed word, in visible gospel relation, both to Christ 
 our only head and to each other as fellow-members and brethren of the 
 same household of faith. 
 
 And we do humbly engage, that, through His strength, we will endeavor 
 to perform all our respective duties towards God and each other, and to 
 practise all the ordinances of Christ, according to what is and shall be 
 made known to us in our respective places ; to exercise, practise, and 
 submit to the government of Christ in this church. 
 
 And we declare that it is our mind that none are properly qualified 
 
70 MANNING AND CHAP. IT. 
 
 members of this Christ s visible church but such as have been wrought 
 upon by the grace of God, delivered from their sins by the justifying right 
 eousness of Christ, have the evidence of it in their souls, have made 
 profession thereof, that is, of a living faith in Christ, and have been 
 baptized, by immersion, in the name of the Holy Trinity. 
 
 Further, it is our mind that the imposition or non-imposition of hands 
 upon believers, after baptism, is not essential to church communion, and 
 that where the image of Christ is discerned, according to the rules of God s 
 word, and those previous duties but now mentioned are submitted to ac 
 cording to gospel rules, we arc ready to hold communion with all such 
 walking orderly in the church of Christ. 
 
 And now we humbly hope, that, although of ourselves we are altogether 
 unworthy and unfit thus to offer up ourselves to God, or to do him any 
 service, or to expect any favor or mercy from him, yet that he will gra 
 ciously accept of this our freewill offering, in and through the merits and 
 mediation of our dear Redeemer, and that he will employ and improve us 
 in his service to his own praise, to whom be all the glory, both now and 
 forever. 
 
 After the members had signed the foregoing covenant, 
 " they were asked," continues the record, " by the Rev. 
 Mr. Manning, whether they, in the presence of that assem 
 bly, viewed that as their covenant and plan of union in a 
 church relation, which question was answered by them all 
 in the affirmative, standing up ; after which, three of the 
 brethren, Samuel Hix, Amos Haile, and John Coomer, in 
 behalf of the church, presented a call, previously prepared 
 by the brethren, to the Rev. James Manning to become 
 their pastor. The call was read publicly by the Rev, 
 Mr. Gano, after which, he asked the Rev. James Man 
 ning if he accepted it, which was answered in the affirma 
 tive. 
 
 " Then Mr. Gano preached a sermon, suitable to the 
 occasion, in which he reminded both pastor and people of 
 their respective duties, and urged the mutual performance 
 of both, from those important motives which the nature of 
 
1704-1709. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 71 
 
 the relation requires. Thus ended the solemnities of the 
 day." 
 
 The relations which Manning now assumed proved alike 
 pleasant and profitable to pastor and flock. During the 
 six years of his ministry in Warren, the church greatly 
 increased in numbers and strength, while the college 
 flourished under its fostering care. 
 
 At the second meeting of the corporation, held in New 
 port, on the first Wednesday in September, 1765, he was 
 formally appointed " President of the College, Professor 
 of Languages, and other branches of learning, with full 
 power to act in these capacities at Warren, or elsewhere." 
 This is the language of the record, which, as has been 
 playfully remarked, " though not obnoxious to the charge 
 of legal precision, seems to imply, on the part of the cor 
 poration, no want of confidence in the variety of the Pres 
 ident s attainments." A letter addressed by Backus to the 
 Rev. Dr. Gill, of London, an extract from which we here 
 present, illustrates Manning s position at this time, as a 
 pioneer in introducing polite literature or learning among 
 the Baptists of New England : 
 
 One grand objection made use of against believers baptism, has been 
 tbat none but ignorant and illiterate men have embraced the Baptist sen 
 timents. And there was so much color for it as this, namely, that ten 
 years ago there were but two Baptist ministers (Jeremiah Condy of 
 Boston, and Edward Up ham of Newport) in all New England who had 
 what is called a liberal education ; and they were not clear in the doctrines 
 of grace. But three others have lately come from the Southern govern 
 ments ; namely, Mr. Samuel Stillman, who is settled in Boston ; Mr. 
 Hezekiah Smith, who has had remarkable success at Haverhill, where 
 he has gathered a large society ; and Mr. James Manning, who is settled 
 at Warren, R. I. And as the Baptists have met with a great deal 
 of abuse from those who are called learned men in our land, they have 
 been not a little prejudiced against learning itself ; but, latterly, there 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. II. 
 
 has been considerable alteration in this respect. A charter was ob 
 tained from the General Assembly of Rhode Island in February, 1764, 
 incorporating a number of Trustees and Fellows, for founding and en 
 dowing a college for the education of youth (of which you will be likely 
 to hear more in due time) ; and this corporation, at their annual meeting, 
 last September, chose the aforesaid Mr. Manning President. He has 
 commenced a school, which appears in a likely way to increase fast. But 
 as there are scarce any books suitable for such business to be sold in that 
 colony, he has thought of sending to London for a quantity ; and as he 
 is unknown there, he requested that I would write a few lines in his favor. 
 Therefore, my dear sir, if my poor testimony may be thought worthy of 
 any notice, I desire that you would mention to Mr. Keith, to whom he 
 has thoughts of sending, that, from near two years acquaintance with him, 
 I am well satisfied that he is a man of piety, integrity, and ability, who will 
 make conscience of fulfilling his engagements. 
 
 I remain, sir, your humble servant, 
 
 ISAAC BACKUS. 
 
 It was about this time that Manning conceived the plan 
 of uniting the churches of New England on some common 
 basis, in order to promote their harmony and growth, to 
 resist more successfully acts of oppression on the part of the 
 " Standing Order " in Massachusetts and Connecticut, and 
 especially to disarm his brethren of all existing prejudices 
 against human learning, and thereby effectually advance 
 the interests of the college. The undertaking was one 
 of no ordinary magnitude. The government of Baptist 
 churches had been from time immemorial, as now, of the 
 independent form, each particular church having an ex 
 clusive right of jurisdiction over its own members, elect 
 ing and dismissing its own officers, and transacting all its 
 business by final issue within itself, without appeal to any 
 power on earth, either civil or ecclesiastical. With the 
 Baptist churches of New England, especially, it had long 
 been an article of belief, that civil government, although 
 desirable and necessary for civil purposes, has nothing to 
 
1704-1709. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 73 
 
 do with Christ s kingdom, which is spiritual and not of 
 this world, and has nothing to do with the visible church, 
 which is subject to Jesus Christ alone as the head thereof. 
 Hence they regarded all synods, conventions, associations, 
 and councils to decide religious controversies, revoke acts 
 of particular churches, inflict censure, form platforms, and 
 prepare articles of frith, as useless and unfriendly to the 
 independency of the churches ; as having more or less re 
 spect to the civil state, and therefore partaking too much 
 of the carnal wisdom of this world. They had suffered 
 too much from measures adopted at these meetings among 
 the Congregational ministers of Massachusetts and Con 
 necticut to be easily persuaded to meet in any association, 
 even though it were upon a plan altogether different from 
 the associations and conventions in New England. It is 
 true that at a former period the Baptists had been united 
 in some kind of an organization. Knight, in his History 
 of the Six-Principle Baptists, whose sentiments generally 
 prevailed in the early history of Rhode Island, says, "The 
 churches of Providence, Newport, Swanzey, and North 
 Kingston, about the close of the seventeenth century, uni 
 ted in a yearly meeting composed of elders, messengers," 
 etc. Comer, who was a decided advocate for the doctrine 
 of " laying on of hands," in his manuscript diary gives an 
 account of this meeting in 1729. Callender, also, in his 
 Historical Discourse, alludes to the same meeting or asso 
 ciation. We have before us now a letter printed in 1741, 
 from sundry persons in Newport, addressed to the " several 
 Baptist churches in New England, that are, or have been, 
 united in the general meetings usually held at Providence, 
 Swanzey," etc. In the progress of time, however, some 
 of the Six-Principle churches which organized this meeting 
 became extinct, others ceased to maintain their peculiar 
 7 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. II. 
 
 sentiments, and it was gradually, by most of the regular 
 Baptist churches, at the period of which we are now speak 
 ing, abandoned. 
 
 It was Manning s wish to unite all the churches of his 
 faith and order in New England in an association similar 
 to the one formed in Philadelphia, which was simply advi 
 sory in its character, having respect to the advancement 
 of the Redeemer s kingdom by spreading through the 
 churches an account of the welfare and prosperity of each. 
 He submitted his plan to the members of his own church, 
 who cordially seconded his views, as appears from a formal 
 vote on the subject, which we find recorded under date 
 of August 28, 1766. He also conferred with his brethren 
 in the ministry, who were occasionally at his house. 1 Let 
 ters of invitation were accordingly sent out, and on the 8th 
 of September, 1767, a meeting of pastors and delegates 
 from the principal Baptist churches in Massachusetts and 
 Rhode Island met at Warren. Hence the origin of the 
 Warren Association, the first organization of the kind in 
 New England, and, according to Benedict, the sixth in 
 America. The Rev. Isaac Backus, of Middleborough, who 
 was chosen clerk of this meeting, thus commences the 
 minutes : 
 
 " Whereas there hath of late been a great increase of Baptist churches 
 in New England, which yet have not such an acquaintance with each 
 other and orderly union together as ought to be, it has been thought by 
 many that a general meeting or association might be a likely means to re 
 move this evil, and to promote the general good of the churches. There- 
 
 i Mr. Manning, it seems, also visited the pastors and churches in person, and 
 conferred with them on the subject. From the diary to which we have already 
 referred, we learn, for instance, that he visited the Rev. Hezekiah Smith, Tuesday, 
 April 15, 1766, and stopped until Thursday, preaching both days in his meeting 
 house. On Monday, April 21, Mr. Smith set out for Rhode Island, joining Mr. 
 
1701-1700. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 75 
 
 fore a number of ciders, being occasionally together last year, did appoint 
 a meeting at Warren, in Rhode Island Colony, on Sept. 8, 1767; and 
 sent an invitation to others of their brethren to meet them there, to confer 
 upon these affairs. Accordingly a considerable number of elders and 
 brethren met at the time and place appointed ; and Elder John Gano, 
 from New York, opened the meeting with a suitable sermon, from Acts 
 xv. 9." 
 
 Eleven churches were represented at this meeting by 
 pastor and delegates, as follows ; namely, Warren Rev. 
 James Manning, and brethren Benjamin Cole and Daniel 
 Brown ; Second, Rehoboth Rev. Richard Round, and 
 brethren Samuel Bullock and Daniel Bullock ; Haverhill 
 Rev. Hezekiah Smith, and brethren Jacob Whittier and 
 Jonathan Shepard; Norton Rev. William Carpenter; 
 Bellingharn Rev. Noah Alden ; First, Middleborough 
 Rev. Isaac Backus ; Second, Middleborough Rev. Eben- 
 ezer Hinds ; Cumberland Rev. Daniel Miller ; First, Bos 
 ton Dea. Josiah Colburn ; Second, Boston Brother 
 Philip Freeman ; Attleborough brethren Abraham Bloss 
 and Joseph Guild. There were also present from the 
 Philadelphia Association, Rev. Messrs. John Gano, Abel 
 Griffith, and Noah Hammond. Mr. Gano was chosen mod 
 erator, and, after looking to Heaven for guidance and direc 
 tion, they proceeded to the business before them. The 
 occasion, as we may well suppose, was one of unusual inter 
 est. The Philadelphia Association, having been informed 
 of the proposed meeting by President Manning, sent them 
 the following timely letter, written by the Rev. Dr. Samuel 
 Jones : 
 
 Manning at Boston. Mr. Smith remained in Warren and Newport until Saturday, 
 May 8th, a little more than two weeks, spending most of his time with Manning. 
 On Monday, Aug. 4, of this same year, Mr. Smith again visited Warren, stopping 
 until Friday with his friend and classmate. On Wednesday, Nov. 12th, Mr. 
 Manning was in Haverhill, and gave the charge at Mr. Smith s ordination. 
 
76 MANNING AND CHAP. II. 
 
 LETTER TO THE WARREX ASSOCIATION. 
 
 The Elders and Messengers of the several Baptist churches met in Associa 
 tion at Philadelphia, the 14th, 5th, and 16th days of October, 17CG. 
 To the Elders and Messengers of the several Baptist Churches of the 
 same faith and order, to meet in Association at Warren, in the Colony 
 of Rhode Island, the 8th day of September, 1767, send greeting. 
 DEARLY BELOVED BRETHREN : When we understood that you had 
 concluded to meet at the time and place above mentioned, with a view to 
 lay the foundation-stone of an associational building, it gave us peculiar 
 joy, in that it opened to our view a prospect of much good being done. 
 You will perhaps judge this our address to you premature, because as yet 
 you have only an ideal being, as a body by appointment. But if you 
 should call this our forwardness blind zeal, we are still in hopes you will 
 not forget that our embracing the first opportunity of commencing Chris 
 tian fellowship and acquaintance with you, affords the strongest evidence 
 of our approbation of your present meeting, and how fond we should be 
 of mutual correspondence between us in this way. 
 
 A long course of experience and observation has taught us to have the 
 highest sense of the advantages which accrue from associations ; nor in 
 deed does the nature or thing speak any other language. For, as particu 
 lar members are collected together and united in one body, which \ye call 
 a particular church, to answer those ends and purposes which could not 
 be accomplished by any single member, so a collection and union of 
 churches into one associational body may easily be conceived capable of 
 answering those still greater purposes which any particular church could 
 not be equal to. And by the same reason, a union of associations will 
 still increase the body in weight and strength, and make it good that a 
 threefold cord is not easily broken. 
 
 Great, dear brethren, is the design of your meeting ; great is the work 
 which lies before you. You will need the guidance and influence of the 
 Divine Spirit, as well as the exertion of all prudence and wisdom. It is 
 therefore our most ardent prayer that you may meet in love, that peace 
 and unanimity may subsist among you during your consultations, that 
 you may be animated with zeal for the glory of God, and directed to ad 
 vise and determine what may most conduce to promote the Redeemer s 
 kingdom. 
 
 From considering the divided state of our Baptist churches in your 
 
17G4-17G9. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 77 
 
 quarter, we foresee that difficulties may arise, such as may call for the 
 exercise of the greatest tenderness and moderation, that if haply, through 
 the blessing of God on your endeavors, those lesser differences may sub 
 side, and a more general union commence. 
 
 As touching our consultations at this our meeting, the minutes of our 
 proceedings (a printed copy whereof we shall herewith enclose) will in 
 form you ; and if in anything further you should be desirous of informa 
 tion with regard to us, we refer you to our reverend and beloved brethren 
 Morgan Edwards, John Gano, and Samuel Jones, who, as our representa 
 tive delegates, will present you with this our letter, and whom we rec 
 ommend to Christian fellowship with you. 
 
 And now, dear brethren, farewell. May the Lord bless and direct you 
 in all things, and grant that we may all hereafter form one general as 
 sembly at his right hand, through infinite riches of free grace in Christ 
 Jesus our Lord. 
 
 Signed by order and in behalf of the Association, by 
 
 BENJAMIN MILLER, Moderator. 
 SAMUEL JONES, Cleric. 
 
 Neither Edwards nor Jones was present at this meeting, 
 but, in their stead, Messrs. Griffith and Hammond, as has 
 already been stated. Although the delegates in attendance 
 " generally manifested," says Backus, " a good will toward 
 this attempt for promoting the union and welfare of the 
 churches, most of them thought they were not prepared to 
 join in an association." The pastors and messengers of 
 but four were ready at this time to unite ; namely, Warren, 
 Haverhill, Bellingham, and Second Middleborough. The 
 other delegates present seem to have hesitated, through 
 fear of some usurpation of authority by the associated body 
 over the particular churches composing it ; an evil which 
 they were determined, if possible, to avoid. Besides, they 
 were not altogether satisfied with the plan of organization 
 and action now adopted. This plan was substantially that 
 of the Philadelphia Association, and was thought to give 
 
78 MANNING AND CHAP. II. 
 
 undue authority to the united body. It was, however, 
 soon after so explained and amended as to be less objec 
 tionable. At the second meeting, also held in Warren, 
 the churches of Sutton, Leicester, and Ware, and the First 
 Church in Boston, over which the Rev. Dr. Stillman had 
 recently been settled, joined the Association, thus swelling 
 the number to eight. The Rev. Benjamin Miller and the 
 Rev. Isaac Stelle, of New Jersey, both warm personal 
 friends of Manning, were present upon this occasion, as del 
 egates from the parent body at Philadelphia. In 1769, the 
 churches of Sturbridge, Enfield, Wilbraharn, and Montague 
 joined the Association. At this meeting the following sen 
 timents and plan, drawn up by President Manning, were 
 adopted as a final basis for organization and action. 
 
 SENTIMENTS TOUCHING AN ASSOCIATION. 
 
 1. That such a combination of churches is not only prudent, but useful, 
 as has appeared even in America by the experience of upwards of sixty 
 years. Some of the uses of it arc, union and communion among them 
 selves ; maintaining more effectually the order and faith once delivered to 
 the saints ; having advice in cases of doubt, and help in distress ; being 
 more able to promote the good of the cause, and becoming important in 
 the eye of the civil powers, as has already appeared in many instances on 
 this continent. 2. That such an association is consistent with the inde 
 pendency and power of particular churches, because it pretends to be no 
 other than an advisory council, utterly disclaiming superiority, jurisdiction, 
 coercive right, and infallibility. 3. That an association should consist of 
 men knowing an.d judicious, particularly in the Scriptures. The reasons 
 are obvious : such men are the fittest to represent communities who profess 
 the Scriptures to be the only rule of faith and practice in religious matters, 
 and who expect that every advice, opinion, or direction they receive from 
 an association be Scriptural. They should be skilled and expert in the 
 laws of their God, as counsellors are in the laws of the land ; for that is 
 the ground of the church s application to them. 
 
1704-1769. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 79 
 
 PLAN OF THE ASSOCIATION. 
 
 1 . The Association to consist only of messengers chosen and sent by 
 the churches. These messengers to be their ministers (for a reason given 
 in sentiment 3), together with some judicious brethren. Their expenses to 
 be borne by the churches which send them. 
 
 2. With the messengers the churches send letters addressed to the As 
 sociation. In these letters mention is made of the messengers, and their 
 authority to act for their churches ; also of the state of the churches touch 
 ing their peace ; their increase by baptism, and by letters dismissive and 
 commendatory from other churches ; touching their diminution by death, 
 excommunication, and dismission to other churches, and the present 
 number of members. If any questions are to be put to the Association, 
 any advice to ask, or business to propose, these are to be expressed in 
 said letters. 
 
 3. All matters to be determined in this Association by the suffrage of 
 the messengers, except what are detcrminable by Scripture : such matters 
 are never put to the decision of votes. All that speak are to address the 
 moderator, who is to take care that none be interrupted while speaking, 
 and that no other indecorum take place, 
 
 4. Churches are to be received into this Association by petitions setting 
 forth their desire to be admitted, their faith, order, and willingness to be 
 conformable to the rules of the associated body. When a petition is read, 
 and the matter ripened for a vote, the moderator states the question. 
 Suffrage being given in favor of the petition, the said moderator declares 
 that such a church is received into the Association, in token of Avhich he 
 gives the messengers the right hand of fellowship, and bids them take their 
 seats. 
 
 5. The Association to meet annually, at Warren, on Tuesday next after 
 the first Wednesday in September, 1 at two o clock in the afternoon, and to 
 continue till business be finished. It is to be opened with divine service : 
 after which a moderator and clerk are chosen; the letters from the 
 churches are read ; the names of the messengers are written, that they may 
 
 1 "And as the annual Commencement at our college is on the first Wednesday 
 in September, and some who come to it from a distance would desire to attend 
 the Association also, it was appointed to be on the Tuesday after the Commence 
 ment." (Backus s Church History, Vol. III., p. 113.) 
 
80 M A N N I N G AND CHAP. 1 [. 
 
 be called over at after meetings ; then business is attended to, and minutes 
 thereof made; a circular letter to the churches is prepared and signed, 
 and a copy of it sent to every church, containing the minutes of the Asso 
 ciation, the state of the churches, when and by Avhom vacancies are to be 
 supplied, who is to preach the next Association sermon, and whatever else 
 is needful for the churches to know. 
 
 6. A connection to be formed and maintained between this Association 
 and that of Philadelphia, by annual letter and messengers from us to them 
 and from them to us. 
 
 7. The faith and order of this Association are expressed in a confession 
 put forth by upwards of a hundred congregations in Great Britain, in the 
 year 1689, and adopted by the Association of Philadelphia in 1742. Some 
 of the principles in said confession are : The imputation of Adam s sin to 
 his posterity ; the inability of man to recover himself; effectual calling by 
 sovereign grace ; justification by imputed righteousness ; immersion for 
 baptism, and that on profession of faith and repentance ; congregational 
 churches and their independency ; reception into them upon evidence of 
 sound conversion, etc. 
 
 The meeting this year (17G9) was rendered unusually 
 interesting by the presence, as messengers from the Phila 
 delphia Association, of Rev. Messrs. Morgan Edwards 
 (who had but recently returned from England and Ireland 
 on his mission in behalf of the college), Samuel Jones, and 
 John Davis. " Many of the letters from the churches," 
 says Backus, " mentioned grievous oppressions and perse 
 cutions from the standing order, especially the one from 
 Ashfield, where religious tyranny had been carried to 
 great lengths." Whereupon petitions to the General 
 Courts of Massachusetts and Connecticut for redress were 
 prepared, by a committee of seven, of which the Rev. John 
 Davis acted as chairman. The same having been read and 
 approved, Messrs. Samuel Stillman, Philip Freeman, Philip 
 Freeman Jr., John Proctor, and Nathan S. Spear, all of 
 Boston, were chosen a committee to present them. 
 
 The following proposal and plan to collect grievances, 
 
BROWN UNIVERSITY. 81 
 
 which we copy from the manuscript minutes of Backus, 
 Was also read at this meeting and approved : 
 
 " Whereas, complaints of oppressions occasioned by a non-conformity to 
 the religious establishment in New England have been brought to this 
 Association ; and whereas the laws obtained for preventing and redressing 
 such oppressions have, upon trial, been found insufficient (either through 
 defect in the laws themselves or iniquity in the execution thereof) ; and 
 whereas humble remonstrances and petitions have not been duly regarded, 
 but the same oppressive measures continue : This is to inform all the 
 oppressed Baptists in New England that the Association of Warren (in 
 conjunction with the Western or Philadelphia Association) is determined 
 to seek remedy for their brethren where a speedy and effectual one may 
 be had. In order to pursue this resolution by petition and memorial, the 
 following gentlemen are appointed to receive well-attested grievances, to 
 be by them transmitted to the Rev. Samuel Stillman of Boston ; namely, 
 Rev. Hezekiah Smith of HaverhilJ, Rev. Isaac Backus of Middleborough, 
 Mr. Richard Montague of Sunderland, Rev. Joseph Meacham of Enfield, 
 and Rev. Thomas Whitman of Groton in Connecticut." 
 
 The efforts put forth by the Baptists in behalf of civil 
 and religious freedom, through the agency of the Warren 
 Association, will be further illustrated in successive chap 
 ters of our present work. Those who may wish to consult 
 fuller and more detailed accounts, are referred to Backus s 
 Church History of New England, and especially to Prof. 
 Hovey s Memoir of the Life and Times of Backus. 
 
 Gradually the Association won the confidence of the 
 denomination, until in a few years it had extended over 
 New England. By its means mutual acquaintance and 
 harmony were promoted ; the weak and the oppressed 
 were relieved ; errors in doctrine and in practice were ex 
 posed and guarded against ; warnings against false teach 
 ers in religion were published ; feeble and destitute flocks 
 were provided with preachers ; the college was materially 
 
82 M A N N I N G A N D CHAP. II. 
 
 aided and strengthened ; students were encouraged to 
 study for the ministry, and the gospel was preached in 
 the wilderness. During the period of the Revolution it 
 presented able addresses in behalf of civil and religious 
 freedom to the Governments of Massachusetts and Con 
 necticut, and to the Continental Congress. Although, 
 says Arnold, in his History of Rhode Island, it no longer 
 has that intimate connection with the University which at 
 first existed, and the growth of Baptist churches in New 
 England has given rise to numerous other associations of 
 a similar character, the parent body still continues to ex 
 ert a widespread and beneficent influence over the objects 
 of its charge. 
 
 The Minutes l of the Association show that Manning, 
 during the whole period of his connection with it, was one 
 of its most prominent and useful members. By his coun 
 sels and personal influence he first called it into being. As 
 has already been stated, he drew up the plan of its organ 
 ization. In the years 1776, 1781, 1784, and 1787, he pre 
 sided over its deliberations as moderator. In 1778 and in 
 1787 he preached the introductory sermon. In 1785 he 
 made the opening prayer. From year to year we find his 
 name on various important committees. He was likewise 
 prominent as a member of the Philadelphia Association, 
 rarely failing, especially during the latter part of his life, to 
 attend its sessions, although thereby subjected to great 
 
 1 The manuscript minutes of the first four meetings of the Warren Association 
 are among the Backus papers, from which they have been carefully copied by 
 the Rev. Silas Hall, a graduate of the college in the class of 1809. To his kind 
 ness in placing them at our disposal we are greatly indebted. The Minutes were 
 first printed in the year 1771, since which time they have been published with 
 out interruption down to the present date. A set, including the aforesaid man 
 uscript minutes, from the meeting of the Association in 1767 down to the present 
 time, is in our possession. The years 1778, 1780, and 1783 are copied from a set 
 in the possession of Mr. John Carter Brown; otherwise it is complete. 
 
1764-1769. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 trouble, expense, and loss of time. He was once clerk, twice 
 moderator, and three times the preacher at its annual meet 
 ings. We close this portion of our narrative with the follow 
 ing circular letter, presented by him to the Warren Asso 
 ciation, and by them adopted, at its third meeting in 1769. 
 It affords a happy illustration of the author s temper and 
 spirit, and of his peculiar fitness to guide and instruct his 
 brethren. 
 
 CIRCULAR LETTER BY MANNING. 
 
 The Elders and Messengers of several churches belonging to the Associ 
 ation, met in Warren, in the Colony of Rhode Island, etc. To the sev 
 eral churches they represent, greeting. 
 
 DEAR BRETHREN : We have had the pleasure of meeting your repre 
 sentatives at the Association, whp in general have brought us good news 
 from the churches. We rejoice to see that the Son of man is pleased to 
 walk in the midst of his golden candlesticks, the churches, to dispense his 
 blessings to his people, and to attend the word of the kingdom with di 
 vine power to the salvation of sinners. Come ! help us to magnify the 
 Lord for his unspeakable mercy and goodness ! Yet we find that the en 
 emies of truth are busily employed in endeavoring to subvert it, and in 
 vexing and oppressing those who stand up for the cause of God. Brethren, 
 Ave sympathize with you under your afflictions, while we call to mind the 
 declaration of your ascended Head to his beloved flock whom he left be 
 hind, In the world ye shall have tribulation. Yet how refreshing is what 
 follows, But be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. Those who live 
 godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. Let not the powers of the 
 world, who set themselves to oppose, discourage you. Search for the mind 
 of Christ in his word ; which being discovered, pay a sacred regard thereto. 
 Call no man master on earth; and remember that the followers of Christ 
 carry their cross in imitation of their Divine Master. Brethren, suffer us, 
 however, to beseech you to use all proper means to obtain relief from the 
 burdens imposed upon you, by taking heed to the general plan which we 
 as a body propose to pursue. But while you attend to human means, let 
 your cries be incessant to Him who hears and who will redress the cries of 
 the oppress^. Pray for those who despitefully use you. Remember that 
 
84 MANNING AND CHAP. II. 
 
 love enters deeply into the spirit of our holy religion ; and that the glorious 
 Founder thereof has given us the most striking example of it in living 
 and dying for his enemies. Walk soberly and inoffensively toward those 
 without ; and let your conduct prove that it is the power of truth, the 
 force of conscience, that makes you Baptists, and not an affectation of 
 singularity. And as you are persuaded that you have heen taught by 
 the Spirit of God, so let your light shine before others that you may win 
 them to the truth. In the meantime, carefully guard against any designs 
 to ensnare you, or to engage you in any combination with them that may 
 eventually prove to the detriment of the cause. 
 
 Finally, may the Lord Jesus afford you his presence, and bless you 
 with abundant increase in all grace, to the glory of his great name. 
 
 Signed by order and in behalf of the Association. 
 
 HEZEKIAH SMITH, Moderator. 
 SAMUEL STILLMAN, Clerk. 
 
 The first letter from Manning, of which we have any 
 knowledge, is the following, addressed to David Howell, 
 a student about to graduate from the College of New 
 Jersey : 
 
 SIR : I some time ago received a line from you by Mr. Stelle, in which 
 you requested my advice relative to your destination when you have 
 done with college. I was glad to find that you had not yet determined 
 upon any place or employment, because I was desirous that you should 
 make a visit to these parts before your settlement. But to give advice, 
 without having some prospect of advantage, I should think imprudent ; 
 and indeed the matter is important, for if it should not succeed according 
 to your wishes, you might entertain hard thoughts of me. However, at 
 present it appears to me that you cannot do better than to visit Rhode 
 Island. The success Mr. Stelle has met with encourages me. He has a 
 Latin school in the town of Providence of nearly twenty scholars, and 
 may have more if he finds himself able to manage them. I believe he 
 gives good satisfaction, and is much esteemed by the gentlemen of the 
 town. I thought when he came here that he would much more readily 
 have found employ in Newport ; and although the people there were for 
 making the attempt, yet he chose first to see Providence, whjfher I accom- 
 
1 7(11- 1 700. BROWN U X" I V E R S I T Y. 
 
 85 
 
 panied him. They would not, however, consent that he should go buck, 
 but immediately employed him ; so that if you are disposed to keep a 
 school, I imagine one may easily be obtained in Newport. I would gladly 
 invite you to come and live in my family, if the infant state of our college 
 could promise you proper encouragement ; but at present it is hardly to 
 be expected, although in the revolution of a year it will doubtless need 
 more help. Upon the whole, I think if I were in your circumstances, as 
 near as I can judge, I should come ; and I would advise you to see me 
 before you engage anywhere. A taste for learning is greatly upon the 
 increase in this colony. Mr. Stelle can give you a more particular account 
 of matters in these parts, as he will be with you at Commencement ; and if 
 you can get your affairs in readiness, he will be your company over. 
 After telling you my family is well, as also your friend Stites, etc., I bid 
 you farewell, wishing you the best blessings of heaven, and that I may 
 have the pleasure of waiting upon Mr. Howell at the house of 
 Sir, your humble servant, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 WARREN, July 14, 1766. 
 
 Agreeably to President Manning s advice, Mr. Howell 
 came to Warren, and was at once associated with him as 
 tutor in the college. In 1769 he was appointed Professor 
 of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy, which position 
 he occupied until the breaking up of the college in con 
 sequence of the Re volution ary War. In addition to the 
 regular studies of his professorship, he taught the French, 
 German, and Hebrew languages. For thirty-four years 
 he was Professor of Law, although he never delivered any 
 lectures in connection with this department of instruction. 
 He was fifty-two years a member of the Board of Fellows, 
 and for many years was secretary of the corporation. He 
 was thus intimately connected with the college during a 
 large portion of his protracted life. On several occasions, 
 after President Manning s decease, he presided at the 
 college Commencements, and delivered to the graduating 
 
8G MANNING AND CITAP. II. 
 
 classes Baccalaureate addresses, which were greatly ad 
 mired. He practised law in Providence for many years, 
 and was regarded as the leading member of the Rhode 
 Island bar. Under the Confederation, he was a member 
 of Congress, and he subsequently filled, with great ability, 
 several high offices, civil and judicial. In 1812, he was 
 appointed United States Judge for the District of Rhode 
 Island, and this office he sustained until his death, in 1824. 
 " Judge Howell," says Prof. Goddard, " was endowed with 
 extraordinary talents, and he superadded to his endow 
 ments extensive and accurate learning. As an able jurist, 
 he established for himself a solid reputation. He was, 
 however, yet more distinguished as a keen and brilliant 
 wit, and as a scholar extensively acquainted not only with 
 the ancient, but with several of the modern languages. 
 As a pungent and effective political writer, he was almost 
 unrivalled ; and in conversation, whatever chanced to be 
 the therne, whether politics or law, literature or theology, 
 grammar or criticism, a Greek tragedy or a difficult prob 
 lem in mathematics, he was never found wanting. Upon 
 all occasions which made any demands upon him, he gave 
 the most convincing evidence of the vigor of his powers, 
 and of the variety and extent of his erudition." To all 
 this may be added extraordinary physical powers, and a 
 majestic, dignified presence. Such was the intimate friend 
 and early academical associate of Manning. 
 
 The first Commencement of the college was held in the 
 meeting-house at Warren, on the 7th of September, 1769. 
 Four years had elapsed since the President, with a solitary 
 pupil, 1 commenced his collegiate duties as an instructor. 
 
 1 It is stated that the Rev. Dr. William Rogers, of Philadelphia, was the first, 
 and for several days the only student of Rhode Island College. He was then a 
 mere lad of fourteen. Indeed, the entire Freshman Class of 1765-6 consisted of 
 but three students. 
 
170 4-1709 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 87 
 
 Through toils, and difficulties, and opposition, he had qui 
 etly persevered in his work, until the seminary under his 
 care had won its way to public favor. And now his first 
 pupils were about to take their Bachelor s degree in the 
 Arts, and to go forth to the duties of life. They were 
 young men of promise. Some of them were destined to 
 fill conspicuous places in the approaching struggle for in 
 dependence ; others were to be leaders in the church, and 
 distinguished educators of youth. Probably no class that 
 has gone forth from the University, in her palmiest days 
 of prosperity, has exerted so widely extended and bene 
 ficial an influence, the times and circumstances taken into 
 consideration, as this first class of seven that graduated at 
 Warren. The occasion drew together a large concourse 
 of people from all parts of the colony, inaugurating the 
 earliest State holiday in the history of Rhode Island. 
 " And as each recurring anniversary of this time-honored 
 institution of learning calls together from distant places 
 the widely-scattered alumni of Brown University, we do 
 but renew, on a more extended scale, the congratulations 
 that crowned this earliest festival." 1 The performances of 
 the day excited universal admiration. " We can readily 
 imagine," says a writer, 2 " how the beautiful and benevo 
 lent face of President Manning was radiant with smiles on 
 this occasion; with what joy he beheld the first fruits of 
 his anxieties, and labors, and prayers ; with what glowing 
 eloquence he poured forth, at the throne of grace, the 
 pious effusions of a grateful heart, invoking the blessing 
 of God upon the future efforts of the friends of the infant 
 
 * Arnold s History of Rhode Island, Vol. II. p. 299. 
 
 2 Hon. John Pitman, LL. D. See Address to the Alumni Association of 
 Brown University, delivered at Providence at their first Anniversary, Sept. 5, 
 1843. 
 
MANNNIG AND CHAP. II. 
 
 institution, and filling every heart with emotion, if not 
 every eye with tears, as, with the affection of a friend and 
 the solicitude of a father, he commended to the care of 
 Heaven those who were about to depart from him, and, at 
 a period of no ordinary moment, to enter a world of temp 
 tation and trial." 
 
 The following account of this " first Commencement," 
 taken from The Providence Gazette and Country Journal, 
 needs no apology for its insertion here. It will be read 
 with special interest by those who have attended the com 
 mencements of a later day. 
 
 FIRST COMMENCEMENT. 1769. 
 
 On Thursday, the seventh of this instant, was celebrated at Warren 
 the first Commencement in the college of this colony ; when the following 
 young gentlemen commenced Bachelors of Arts ; namely, Joseph Bel- 
 ton, Joseph Eaton, William Rogers, Richard Stites, Charles Thompson, 
 James Mitchel Varnum, and William Williams. 
 
 About ten o clock, A. M., the gentlemen concerned in conducting the 
 affairs of the college, together with the candidates, went in procession to 
 the meeting-house. 
 
 After they had taken their seats respectively, and the audience were 
 composed, the President introduced the business of the day with prayer ; 
 then followed a salutatory oration in Latin, pronounced with much spirit, 
 by Mr. Stites, which procured him great applause from the learned part 
 of the assembly. He spoke upon the advantages of liberty and learning, 
 and their mutual dependence upon each other ; concluding with proper 
 salutations to the Chancellor of the college, Governor of the colony, etc., 
 particularly expressing the gratitude of all the friends of the college to 
 the Rev. Morgan Edwards, who has encountered many difficulties in 
 going to Europe to collect donations for the institution, and has lately 
 returned. 
 
 To which succeeded a forensic dispute, in English, on the following 
 thesis ; namely, " The Americans, in their present circumstances, cannot, 
 consistent with good policy, affect to become an Independent State." Mr. 
 Varnum ingeniously defended it, by cogent arguments handsomely dressed ; 
 
17G1-17CO. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 80 
 
 though he was subtly but delicately opposed by Mr. Williams ; both of 
 whom spoke with emphasis and propriety. 
 
 As a conclusion to the exercises of the forenoon, the audience were 
 agreeably entertained with an oration on benevolence, by Mr. Rogers ; 
 in which, among many other pertinent observations, he particularly no 
 ticed the necessity which that infant seminary stands in of the salutary 
 effects of that truly Christian virtue. 
 
 At three o clock, P. M., the audience being convened, a syllogistic dis 
 pute was introduced on this thesis : " Materia cogitare non potest," Mr. 
 Williams the respondent ; Messieurs Belton, Eaton, Rogers, and Varnum 
 the opponents, in the course of which dispute, the principal arguments 
 on both sides were produced toAvards settling that critical point. 
 
 The degree of Bachelor of Arts was then conferred on the candidates. 
 Then the following gentlemen (graduated in other colleges) at their own 
 request received the honorary degree of Master in the Arts ; namely, Rev. 
 Edward Upham, Rev. Morgan Edwards, Rev. Samuel Stillman, Rev. 
 Hezekiah Smith, Hon. Joseph Wanton Jun. Esq., Mr. Jabez Bowen, and 
 Mr. David Howell, Professor of Philosophy in said college. 
 
 The following gentlemen, being well recommended by the Faculty for 
 literary merit, had conferred on them the honorary degree of Master in 
 the Arts ; namely, Rev. Abel Morgan, Rev. Oliver Hart, Rev. David 
 Thomas, Rev. Samuel Jones, Mr. John Davis, Mr. Robert Strettlc Jones, 
 Mr. John Stites, Rev. James Bryson, Rev. James Edwards, Rev. Wil 
 liam Boulton, Rev. John Ryland, Rev. William Clark, Rev. Joshua 
 Toulmin, and Rev. Caleb Evans. 
 
 A concise, pertinent, and solemn charge was then given to the Bache 
 lors by the President, concluding with his last paternal benediction, which 
 naturally introduced the valedictory orator, Mr. Thompson, who, after 
 some remarks upon the excellences of the oratorial art, and expressions 
 of gratitude to the patrons and officers of the college, together with a val 
 ediction to them, and all present, took a most affectionate leave of his 
 classmates. The scene was tender, the subject felt, and the audience 
 affected. 
 
 The President concluded the exercises with prayer. The Avhole was 
 conducted with a propriety and solemnity suitable to the occasion. The 
 audience (consisting of the principal gentlemen and ladies of this colony, 
 and many from the neighboring governments), though large and crowded, 
 behaved with the utmost decorum. 
 
 In the evening, the Rev. Morgan Edwards, by particular request, 
 8* 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. II. 
 
 preached a sermon, 1 especially addressed to the graduates and students, 
 from Phil. iii. 8 : " Yea, doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the 
 excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord ; " in which (after 
 high encomiums on the liberal arts and sciences) the superior knowledge 
 of the knowledge of Christ, or the Christian science, was clearly and fully 
 illustrated in several striking examples and similes ; one of which follows : 
 " When the sun is below the horizon, the stars excel in glory ; but when 
 his orb irradiates our hemisphere, their glory dwindles, fades away, and 
 disappears." 
 
 Not only the candidates, but even the President, were dressed in 
 American manufactures. Finally, be it observed, that this class are the 
 first sons of that college which has existed for more than four years ; during 
 all which time it has labored under great disadvantages, notwithstanding 
 the warm patronage and encouragement of many worthy men of fortune 
 and benevolence ; and it is hoped, from the disposition which many dis 
 covered on that day, and other favorable circumstances, that these disad 
 vantages will soon, in part, be happily removed. 
 
 Mr. Edwards, to whose labors in behalf of the college 
 we have already referred, set out for Europe in February, 
 1767, and returned in 1769, having been absent about two 
 years. The amount which he obtained, and which was 
 afterwards invested in a permanent fund for the payment 
 of the President s salary, was 888 10s. 2d. sterling. 
 This was truly a noble benefaction, considering the value 
 of money at that period, and greatly encouraged the friends 
 of the institution. The original subscription-book, contain 
 ing the names of the subscribers in their own hand- writing, 
 was presented to the Library in the year 1849, by Mr. Joshua 
 Edwards, a son of the Rev. Morgan Edwards. He was 
 then living, being at the time upwards of eighty years of 
 
 1 The custom, thus inaugurated by Morgan Edwards, of having a sermon 
 preached on Commencement occasions, was continued down to the beginning 
 of Dr. Waylaud s administration in 1828, when the " President s Levee " took the 
 place of the " Commencement Sermon." The usual preachers on these occasions, 
 were Drs. Stillman and Smith, and, in later years, Dr. Baldwin. 
 
1764-1769. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 01 
 
 age. Among the subscribers thus obtained to the first 
 funds of the college, we notice the names of our own coun 
 trymen, Benjamin Franklin and Benjamin West, both re 
 siding in London at this time ; Thomas Llewelyn, LL.D., 
 the distinguished Cambro-British scholar ; Samuel Roffey, 
 Esq., whose name appears upon the earliest records of the 
 corporation as a benefactor of the college ; Rev. Dr. Sam 
 uel Stennett ; Thomas Penn ; Rev. Dr. A. Gifford, for many 
 years sub-librarian at the British Museum ; Thomas Hollis 
 and Timothy Hollis, the well-known benefactors of Harvard 
 College ; and Rev. Dr. Gill, author of " Exposition of the 
 Old and New Testaments," a work published in nine folio 
 volumes. 
 
 Mr. Edwards, speaking a few years afterwards of these 
 his efforts to collect funds .for the college, says that he 
 "succeeded pretty well, considering how angry the mother 
 country then was with the colonies for opposing the Stamp 
 Act." 
 
 The following brief biographies of several members of 
 the class, who more particularly distinguished themselves 
 in public life, may very appropriately close this chapter. 
 
 WILLIAM ROGERS. 
 
 If, among her " first fruits," Trinity College of Dublin 
 may boast of her Archbishop Usher, and Harvard Univer 
 sity of her Dr. Woodbridge, Brown University may, with 
 equal reason and propriety, boast of her Dr. Rogers, as the 
 first student who enrolled his name upon her records, and 
 as one whose character and life reflect the highest honor 
 alike upon his revered instructor and the institution over 
 which he presided. 
 
 William, the second son of Capt. William and Sarah 
 
92 MANNING AND 
 
 CHAP. II. 
 
 Rogers, was bora in Newport, R. I., on the 22d of July, 
 1751. Having finished a preparatory course of study un 
 der the care of the Rev. Aaron Hutchinson, a Congrega 
 tional minister of Grafton, Mass., he, at the early age of 
 fourteen, entered Rhode Island College, over which Dr. 
 Manning had just been appointed President. In the year 
 1770, while engaged in teaching in his native city, he be 
 came personally interested in religion, and was baptized 
 by the Rev. Gardner Thurston, and received as a member 
 of the Second Baptist Church, by prayer and the imposition 
 of hands. This latter fact is mentioned, as an illustration 
 of the views that prevailed in many of the Rhode Island 
 churches in reference to this point. Soon afterwards, he 
 removed from his native city to Philadelphia, where, on 
 the 31st of May, 1772, he was ordained pastor of the Baptist 
 church. The sermon on the occasion was preached by the 
 Rev. Isaac Eaton, from the words, " And who is sufiicient 
 for these things ? " It proved to be the last sermon that 
 Mr. Eaton ever preached, while the text was the basis of 
 Mr. Rogers first discourse. During the three years that 
 Mr. Rogers continued his pastoral relations, the church 
 appears to have been greatly prospered, and the congre 
 gation largely increased. Among his hearers, whom his 
 eloquence attracted, was the celebrated Dr. Rush, who 
 afterwards, it is stated, became an adherent of the Rev. 
 Elhanan Winchester. 
 
 During the war of the Revolution, Dr. Rogers held 
 important offices, as chaplain of the forces appointed by 
 Pennsylvania for the defence of the State, and also as 
 chaplain of a brigade in the Continental army. His rela 
 tions with the prominent actors of the Revolution were 
 intimate, and he enjoyed in a high degree the confidence 
 and esteem of the commanding general. He was an hon- 
 
1764-1769. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 93 
 
 ored member of the Masonic fraternity, and frequently 
 addressed them on public occasions. In the year 1789, he 
 was appointed Professor of Oratory and Belles-lettres in 
 the College and Academy of Philadelphia, and in 1792 he 
 was elected to the same office in the University of Penn 
 sylvania. His last years were spent in dignified retirement, 
 and in the cultivation of pious and devout feelings. He 
 died in Philadelphia, April 7, 1824, universally beloved 
 and lamented. As an instance of the general estimation 
 in which he was held as a preacher, it may be stated, that, 
 at one time, during the year 1782, he received invitations 
 from three very important churches, and of as many dif 
 ferent denominations, in the States of Rhode Island, Con 
 necticut, and Maryland, either to supply the pulpit steadily, 
 or to settle as pastor. One of these invitations was from 
 the Episcopal church of St. John s in Providence. The 
 invitation was given, of course, with a proviso, as will be 
 seen by a reference to Updike s History of the Narraganset 
 Church. 
 
 A fine picture of Dr. Rogers, executed by his only sur 
 viving daughter, Miss Eliza J. Rogers, has recently been 
 added to the collection of portraits in Rhode Island Hall. 
 It is copied from an original portrait by Rembrandt Peale, 
 taken in the year 1795, when the subject was in the prime 
 and vigor of life. 
 
 In Evans s Life of Richards occurs the following pleasant 
 account of Dr. Rogers, as given by an English gentleman, 
 in a letter dated New York, June 25, 1793. The writer 
 was travelling through the country with a view to final 
 settlement. The extract serves to illustrate Rogers s social 
 character, and also gives an agreeable view of Gen. Wash 
 ington in his private relations. 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. II. 
 
 " After travelling through an extreme pleasant country, \vc arrived at 
 Philadelphia, and waited on Dr. Rogers. Dr. Rogers is a most entertain 
 ing and agreeable man, and received your letter with much pleasure. 
 We were with him a great part of the time we remained in the city, and 
 were introduced by him to Gen. Washington. The General was not at 
 home when we called, but, while we were talking with his private secre 
 tary in the hall, he came in, and spoke to Dr. Rogers with the greatest 
 ease and familiarity. He immediately asked us up into the drawing-room, 
 where was Lady Washington and his two nieces. When we were seated, 
 the General called for wine and cake, of which we partook, he drinking our 
 health, and wishing us success in all our undertakings. The General 
 asked us a number of questions respecting the situation of things in 
 Europe, to all which we answered, you may be sure, in our best manner. 
 It is his general custom to say little ; but on this occasion we understood 
 he was more than usually talkative. He made one remark, which, un 
 der the circumstances in which it was delivered, has a peculiar energy, 
 that we had chosen a happy country, and one large enough ! After 
 sitting about half an hour, we retired, highly gratified with having con 
 versed with ihejirst character of the age." 
 
 Dr. Rogers was of the middle size, and in his habits and 
 manners was more than ordinarily refined. In seasons of 
 relaxation, he was agreeably facetious. He was very active, 
 and walked with the agility of youth, until within a few 
 weeks of his decease. The light and beauty of his charac 
 ter were especially manifest in the circle of his family, by 
 the members of whom he was almost worshipped. He was 
 twice married. His first wife, a daughter of William Gard 
 ner, of Philadelphia, died Oct. 10, 1793, of the yellow fever, 
 at that time prevalent. The following extract from a letter 
 dated Philadelphia, Dec. 9, 1793, and addressed to the 
 Rev. William Button, of London, is in reference to this 
 event. The letter, with an engraved likeness of the au 
 thor, was first published in London, in the New Baptist 
 Magazine for 1825. 
 
1701-1769. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 95 
 
 Before this reaches you, you will probably have heard of the irrepara 
 ble loss I have met with in the death of my dear and lovely Mrs. Rogers. 
 She died during the prevalence of the awful epidemic with which our 
 city was lately visited. I enclose you a paper which contains a short ac 
 count of her exit. It is needless for me to enlarge on this mournful vis 
 itation, having by the William Penn, which sailed ten or twelve days 
 ago, forwarded for Dr. Rippon s Register a concise narrative of her life 
 and bodily dissolution. Suffice it to say, that as she lived, so she died, a 
 uniform and sincere Christian. But oh ! my rebellious heart cannot yet 
 submit. Dear brother, pray for me, that while I mourn, I may not mur 
 mur. Had you known her worth, you would not blame me. She was 
 I must desist ; my swelling breast forbids my proceeding. I am a poor 
 lonely creature ! The week following her decease, I was taken down with 
 the fever myself, and anticipated a speedy and eternal union with my 
 dear departed wife, and other saints in glory. The dark valley began to 
 assume the appearance of a flowered path ; but, contrary to my own and 
 the expectations of all my neighbors and attendants, I was summoned 
 back into life ; being snatched, as it were, from the very brink of the grave. 
 Jehovah grant that my future days may be more zealously devoted to the 
 service of our Redeemer Jesus than my past has ever been. My only 
 son, who was my constant nurse by day and night, providentially escaped 
 the dire contagion ; so that your afflicted brother can and ought to sing of 
 mercy as well as of judgment. 
 
 Wishing you, Mrs. Button, and the whole family, health and happiness, 
 I subscribe myself, reverend and dear sir, 
 
 Your afflicted brother, 
 
 WILLIAM ROGERS. 
 
 On the 15th of Jan., 1795, he was married to Susannah 
 Marsh, daughter of Joseph Marsh, of Philadelphia. The 
 following letter to his friend, the Rev. Dr. Hezekiah Smith, 
 refers to his second marriage, and also to the death of the 
 Rev. Morgan Edwards, whose funeral sermon he published 
 by special request : 
 
 PHILADELPHIA, April 14, 1795. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 A combination of causes has prevented my addressing you for some 
 time past. It is with pleasure that I once more resume my pen to inform 
 you of my welfare, etc. 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. II. 
 
 Your favors of April 13 and Aug. 22 last were duly received, for both 
 of which accept my thanks. You complain of my not writing to you. 
 On this head I have only to say, that, previous to your two last, you were 
 in my debt ; and as you do not mention a small packet I sent you, I am 
 very fearful that it miscarried. Before this, I dare say, you have heard of 
 my having once more formed a matrimonial connection. My present 
 wife, like my former one, is a good religious Baptist. She is a worthy 
 member of our church, and peculiarly well calculated, should God spare 
 her life, of rendering me much assistance, both in my temporal and spirit 
 ual progress. You see by this that I have married in the Lord. Our 
 union took place on the 15th of January ; and we join in soliciting an inter 
 est in your prayers. She is at present confined with an intermitting fever, 
 though much better to-day than she was yesterday. You must also have 
 heard of the death of the Rev. Morgan Edwards. He died Jan. 28. At 
 his own request I preached his funeral sermon, from 2 Cor. vi. 8. The 
 congregation was numerous and attentive. 
 
 We are at peace in our church and congregation, but there is nothing 
 remarkable among us of a religious kind. Yet we are not without en 
 couragement. There is considerable solemnity in our place of public 
 worship, and a few instances of serious inquirers. The French go on 
 gloriously. Surely the Lord will in his own appointed time shower grace 
 upon his people universally, and build up the walls of his Jerusalem. 
 
 I must conclude, but not without assuring you that my most fervent 
 supplications shall not cease for the preservation and long continuance of 
 your valuable life. My son, through mercy, is well. Mrs. Rogers joins 
 in affectionate regards to self and dear Mrs. Smith. 
 
 Yours, in a precious Saviour, 
 
 WILLIAM ROGERS. 
 
 JAMES MITCHELL VAKNTJM. 
 
 Hon. James Mitchell Yarnum was born in Dracut, 
 Mass., in the year 1749. At the time of his graduation he 
 was twenty years of age. While a student he developed a 
 remarkable capacity for learning, and, although somewhat 
 dissipated in his habits, made liberal acquisitions in gen 
 eral knowledge and literature. He was especially attached 
 to mathematical science, and delighted in its pursuit. Af- 
 
1764-1769. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 97 
 
 ter leaving college he taught a classical school, and to 
 this period of his life he ever afterwards referred as a 
 season of special benefit. In the year 1771 he was admit 
 ted to the bar, having studied law in the office of Oliver 
 Arnold, Esq., then the Attorney General of the colony. 
 Soon afterwards he established himself in the town of 
 East Greenwich, where he rapidly rose to distinction in 
 his profession ; his great talents securing for him an exten 
 sive practice. The following extract from the " Memoirs 
 of Elkanah Watson, or Men and Times of the Revolution," 
 presents a pleasing description of his powers of eloquence 
 at this period : 
 
 "Mr. Varnum was one of the most eminent lawyers and 
 distinguished orators in the colonies. I first saw this learned 
 and amiable man in 1774, when I heard him deliver a Ma 
 sonic oration. Until that moment I had formed no concep 
 tion of the power and charms of oratory. I was so deeply 
 impressed, that the effect of his splendid exhibition has re 
 mained for forty-eight years indelibly fixed upon my rnind. 
 I then compared his mind to a beautiful parterre, from 
 which he was enabled to pluck the most gorgeous and 
 fanciful flowers, in his progress, to enrich and embellish 
 his subject. Lavater would have pronounced him an or 
 ator, from the vivid flashing of his eye and the delicate 
 beauty of his classic mouth." 
 
 Mr. Varnum had a decided taste for military life, and in 
 1774 was appointed commander of the " Kentish Guards," 
 a company which, from their acquirements in military 
 tactics, became the nursery of many distinguished officers 
 during the Revolutionary War. Among them may be 
 mentioned Major Whitmarsh, Col. Christopher Greene, 
 and Rhode Island s greatest general, Nathanael Greene, 
 who was second only to Washington, The prominent 
 9 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. II 
 
 part which Varnum had taken in the colonial controversy 
 induced him, upon the breaking out of hostilities, to offer 
 his services to the Government. He was at first a colonel 
 in the American army, but in Feb., 1777, Congress promo 
 ted him to the rank of brigadier-general. He continued in 
 the army several years, and saw some service, commanding 
 a brigade in Sullivan s expedition on Rhode Island. He was 
 a good disciplinarian, and invaluable in council. He wielded 
 a vigorous pen, commanding a rich flow of eloquence, em 
 bellished by the ornaments and graces of rhetoric. 
 
 While in command at Taunton, he addressed an admi 
 rable letter to the chief officer of the Hessians in Rhode 
 Island, and sent it in by a flag. The letter was a tran 
 script of his views on the great controversy with England, 
 and was considered an able argument on the subject. It 
 was subsequently published in England, and reflected 
 much credit on the author. In 1779 he resigned his com 
 mission, and returned to his former profession. The Leg 
 islature, in consideration of his national services, and the 
 more effectually to secure them in defence of the State, 
 elected him Major-General of the Militia of Rhode Island, 
 an oflice to which he was annually reflected during the 
 remainder of his life. In 1780 he was appointed a dele 
 gate to the Congress of the Confederation, and again in 
 1786. As that body sat with closed doors, his voice could 
 not be heard by the public ; but his name often appears in 
 the published journals of the proceedings. 
 
 The great forensic effort of Gen. Varnum was in the 
 celebrated case of Trevett against Weeden, in the fall of 
 the year 1786. The General Assembly, at its May session, 
 with a wilful blindness unparalleled in the annals of civiliza 
 tion, had emitted the enormous sum of 100.000 in paper 
 bills, making them u a good and lawful tender for the com- 
 
1751-1769. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 99 
 
 plete payment and final discharge of all fines, forfeitures, 
 judgments, and executions of every kind and nature what 
 soever." They also passed acts making it criminal to 
 refuse said bills in exchange for articles of merchandise, 
 and depriving their opponents of the sacred palladium of 
 Britons, the trial by jury, and furthermore rendering them, 
 even though freemen, ineligible to any office. In the case 
 referred to, John Trevett, of Newport, had purchased meat 
 of John "Weeden, a butcher, and tendered to him bills of 
 the emission of the May session of the Legislature in pay 
 ment ; which bills Weeden refused. Whereupon a com 
 plaint was made and filed, in accordance with the acts of the 
 General Assembly, before Paul Mumford, Chief Justice of 
 the Supreme Court. The court consisted of Paul Mumford, 
 Chief Justice, and Joseph Hazard, Thomas Tillinghast, and 
 David Howell, associates. When the case came up for trial, 
 the whole public was in a state of feverish excitement. The 
 merchant closed his store, the farmers left their fields, the 
 mechanic his workship, and all congregated in and around 
 the courthouse to await the final issue. If the complaint 
 was sustained, then would they be prostrated in utter ruin, 
 and the commerce and business of the State be effectually 
 destroyed. Yarnum proved himself equal to this emer 
 gency. By his resistless eloquence he stemmed the tide of 
 power and misrule, and successfully vindicated the claims 
 of equity and justice. The court adjudged that the amend 
 ed acts of the Legislature were unconstitutional, and so 
 void. The tyranny of the demagogues was thus over 
 thrown, and the State was saved. 
 
 In the year 1787, Gen. Varnurn was appointed by Con 
 gress one of the judges of the Northwestern Territory, and 
 in the following spring entered upon his duties. But dis 
 ease had enfeebled his body, and his race was nearly run. 
 
100 MANNING AND 
 
 CHAP. II. 
 
 He died at Marietta, Ohio, on the 10th of January, 1789, 
 at the early age of forty. His funeral was conducted 
 with great solemnity and respect. A long procession of 
 mourners private citizens, civil and military officers, gen 
 tlemen of the Order of Cincinnati, and Free Masons fol 
 lowed his remains to the grave. 
 
 Early in life Gen. Varnum married Martha, the eldest 
 daughter of Cromcl Child, of Warren, a most estimable 
 lady, whose acquaintance he had formed while prosecuting 
 his college studies. She survived her husband forty-eight 
 years, dying at Bristol, without issue, Oct. 10, 1837, at the 
 advanced age of eighty-eight. The following affectionate 
 and interesting letter, addressed to Mrs. Varnum. in the 
 autumn of 1788, shows the religious views and feelings of 
 the writer in a pleasing light, and affords good evidence 
 that he died in the full assurance of a blessed immortality, 
 notwithstanding the sceptical and philosophical opinions 
 in which he had previously indulged. The letter was first 
 published in the Massachusetts Magazine for November, 
 1790, with the following note from the author s friend and 
 early instructor prefixed : 
 
 To THE EDITORS, etc. : 
 
 GENTLEMEN : From a full conviction that the enclosed letter from the 
 late Gen. Varnum to his most amiable lady (written a few days before 
 his departure from this distempered state of being) will give pleasure to 
 every feeling heart, I have obtained leave to present it to your numerous 
 readers. 
 
 I am, with respectful esteem, yours, etc., 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 MY DEAREST AND MOST ESTIMABLE FRIEND : 
 
 I now write from my sick-chamber; and perhaps it will be the last letter 
 that you will receive from me. My lungs are so far affected that it is im 
 possible for me to recover but by exchange of air and a wanner climate. I 
 
1704-1769. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 101 
 
 expect to leave this place on Sunday or Monday next for the Falls of the 
 Ohio. If I feel myself mend by the tour, I shall go no further ; but if 
 not, and if my health should continue, I expect to proceed to New Or 
 leans, and from thence by the West Indies to Rhode Island. My physi 
 cians, most of them, think the chances of recovery in my favor. However, 
 I am neither elevated nor depressed by the force of opinion, but shall 
 meet my fate with humility and fortitude. 
 
 I cannot but indulge the hope that I shall again embrace my lovely 
 friend in this world, and that we may glide smoothly down the tide of 
 time for a few years, and enjoy together the more substantial happiness 
 and satisfaction, as we have had already the desirable pleasures, of life. 
 
 It is now almost nineteen years since Heaven connected us by the ten- 
 derest and the most sacred ties, and it is the same length of time that our 
 friendship hath been increased by every rational and endearing motive ; it 
 is now stronger than death, and I am firmly persuaded will follow us into 
 an existence of never-ending felicity. But, my lovely friend, the gloomy 
 moment will arrive when we must part ; and should it arrive during our 
 present separation, my last and only reluctant thoughts will be employed 
 about my dearest Martha. Life, my dearest friend, is but a bubble : it 
 soon hursts, and is remitted to eternity. When we look back to the earliest 
 recollections of our youthful hours, it seems but the last period of our rest, 
 and we appear to emerge from a night of slumbers to look forward to real 
 existence. When we look forward, time appears as indeterminate as 
 eternity, and we have no idea of its termination but by the period of our 
 dissolution. What particular relation it bears to a future state, our general 
 notions of religion cannot point. We feel something constantly active 
 within us, that is evidently beyond the reach of mortality ; but whether it 
 is a part of ourselves, or an emanation from the pure Source of existence, 
 or reabsorbed when death shall have finished his work, human wisdom 
 cannot determine ; whether the demolition of the body introduces only a 
 change in the manner of our being, or leaves it to progress infinitely, al 
 ternatively elevated and depressed according to the propriety of our con 
 duct, or whether we return to the common mass of unthinking matter, 
 philosophy hesitates to decide. 
 
 I know, therefore, but one source from whence can be derived complete 
 consolation in a dying hour, and that is the divine system contained in 
 the gospel of Jesus Christ. There life and immortality are brought to 
 light, there we are taught our existence is to be eternal ; and, secure in 
 an interest in the atoning merits of a bleeding Saviour, that we shall be 
 9* 
 
102 MANNING AND CHAP. II. 
 
 inconceivably happy. A firm and unshaken faith in this doctrine must 
 raise us above the doubts and fears that hang upon every other system, 
 and enable us to view with a calm serenity the approach of the king of 
 terrors, and to behold him as a kind and indulgent friend, spending his 
 shafts only to carry us the sooner to our everlasting home. But should 
 there be a more extensive religion beyond the veilj and without the reach 
 of mortal observation, the Christian religion is by no means shaken 
 thereby, as it is not opposed to any principle that admits of the perfect be 
 nevolence of Deity. My only doubt is, whether the punishment threat 
 ened in the New Testament is annexed to a state of unbelief which may 
 be removed hereafter, and so restoration take place, or whether the state 
 of the mind at death irretrievably fixes its doom forever. I hope and 
 pray that the Divine Spirit will give me such assurances of an acceptance 
 with God, through the merits and sufferings of his Son, as to brighten the 
 way to immediate happiness. 
 
 Dry up your tears, my charming mourner, nor suffer this letter to give 
 too much inquietude. -Consider the facts at present as in theory, but the 
 sentiments such as will apply whenever the change shall come. 
 
 I know that humanity must and will be indulged in its keenest grief; 
 but there is no advantage in too deeply anticipating our inevitable sorrows. 
 If I did not persuade myself that you would conduct with becoming pru 
 dence and fortitude upon this occasion, my own unhappincss would be 
 greatly increased, and perhaps my disorder too; but I have so much confi 
 dence in your discretion as to unbosom my inmost soul. 
 
 You must not expect to hear from me again until the coming spring, as 
 the river will soon be shut with ice, and there will be no communication 
 from below ; if in a situation for the purpose, I will return as soon as 
 practicable. 
 
 Give my sincerest love to those you hold dear. I hope to see them 
 again, and love them more than ever. Adieu, my dearest friend. And 
 while I fervently devote in one undivided prayer our immortal souls to 
 the care, forgiveness, mercy, and all-prevailing grace of Heaven, in time 
 and through eternity, I must bid you a long, long, long farewell. 
 
 JAMES M. VARNUM. 
 
1764-1769. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 103 
 
 CHAELES THOMPSON". 
 
 The Rev. Charles Thompson, valedictorian of the class, 
 was born at Amwell, ST. J., on the 14th of April, 1748. 
 Before graduating he had already commenced preaching. 
 Upon the removal of President Manning to Providence, the 
 church at Warren were left without a minister, and Thomp 
 son was accordingly invited to preach to them with a 
 view to settlement. The following year he was ordained 
 as pastor of the church, being at this time twenty-three 
 years of age. His labors in the ministry were attended 
 with a rich blessing ; so that during the four years of his 
 continuance at Warren, the membership of the church was 
 nearly doubled. But when the war of the Revolution 
 broke out, its sad effects were specially visible among his 
 people. He was at once appointed a chaplain in the Amer 
 ican army, which office he held till 1778, a period of three 
 years. While at home on a visit, the English troops came 
 up to Warren, and on the morning of May 25, 1778, burned 
 the meeting-house, parsonage, arsenal, and several private 
 dwellings, and carried away Mr. Thompson as a prisoner. He 
 was confined at Newport ; but in about a month he was 
 released, by what means he never knew. He afterwards 
 preached at Ashford, Ct., until 1779, when he became pastor 
 of the church in Swanzey. During his ministry of twenty- 
 three years at this latter place, there were several extensive 
 revivals of religion : one immediately after his settlement, 
 when seventy-five persons were baptized and added to 
 the church ; one in 1789, when fifty persons were baptized ; 
 and a third in 1800, of still greater extent, which resulted 
 in the admission to the church of a hundred new members. 
 He died in Charlton, Worcester County, Mass., on the 4th 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. II. 
 
 of May 1803, at the age of fifty-five. Mr. Thompson, says 
 his biographer, was tall, spare, and of a fine figure. The 
 expression of his countenance was indicative both of a 
 vigorous intellect and an amiable disposition. He placed 
 a high value upon time, and improved all his hours to 
 good purpose. In his family and in the church he was a 
 model of kindness combined with firmness. As a preacher 
 he held a very high rank. He had a voice of great com 
 pass, and its tones were at once sweet and commanding. 
 His sermons were carefully studied, and were sometimes 
 written ; but his manuscript was never seen in the pulpit, 
 and his language was generally such as was supplied to him 
 at the moment. He was very successful in the instruction 
 of youth, and for several years received young men under 
 his care, with a view to direct their education. He was fully 
 master of whatever he attempted to teach. In a word, he 
 may be regarded as an accomplished scholar, a devout 
 Christian, and a successful preacher. From the year 1795 
 until his death he was a Trustee of the college. The 
 original manuscript of his valedictory oration is still care 
 fully preserved among the archives of the college library. 1 
 
 WILLIAM WILLIAMS. 
 
 The Rev. William Williams was born in Hilltown, Bucks 
 County, Pa., in the year 1752. His father emigrated from 
 Wales, and settled in this country as a farmer, accumulat 
 ing a handsome property. The son was fitted for college 
 at the Hopewell Academy, taught by the Rev. Isaac 
 Eaton. He came to Warren in 1766, and entered the 
 Sophomore Class. In the autumn following his gradua 
 tion, he was married to Patience, daughter of Col, Nathan 
 
 1 Sprague s Annals of the American Pulpit. 
 
1764-1769. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 105 
 
 Miller, of Warren. In September, 1771, he was baptized by 
 his classmate, Mr. Thompson, and received as a member 
 of the church under his care. For several years after 
 leaving college he engaged in teaching, an employment 
 for which his talents and inclinations especially qualified 
 him. In 1773, he removed with his family to Wrentham, 
 Mass., where he opened an academy, which soon attained 
 to high distinction among the literary institutions of that 
 day. He is supposed to have had under his care nearly 
 two hundred youth, about eighty of whom he fitted for his 
 Alma Mater. Not a few of these became distinguished 
 in professional and political life ; among whom may be 
 mentioned the Rev. Dr. Maxcy, successor to Manning; the 
 Hon. David R. Williams, Governor of South Carolina; and 
 the Hon. Tristam Burgess, LL. D., Professor of Oratory 
 and Belles-lettres in Brown University, and for many 
 years a distinguished Representative in Congress. Mr. 
 Williams also conducted the theological studies of young 
 men with a view to their entering the ministry. 1 On the 
 3d of July, 1776, he was publicly ordained as pastor of the 
 Baptist church in Wrentham, an office which he held 
 for nearly half a century. Though strictly evangelical in 
 his doctrines, he was not regarded as a popular preacher. 
 Quite a number of his early manuscript sermons are among 
 the archives of the college library. They are written in 
 a plain, legible hand, and exhibit marks of careful prep 
 aration. Mr. Williams, says his biographer, certainly had 
 the ability to keep his church in a quiet, orderly state, and, 
 by a steady course of enlightened Christian activity, to 
 accomplish a great amount of good among his people. 
 Few men have contributed more than he to the social and 
 
 i One of his pupils in theology was the lamented William Gammell of Newport, 
 father of Professor William Gammell. 
 
106 
 
 MANNING AND BROWN UNIVERSITY. CHAP. II. 
 
 intellectual improvement of the Baptist denomination in 
 New England. He died on the 22d of September, 1823, 
 aged seventy-one. He was a Fellow of the college from 
 1789 to 1818. In 1777, when the college building was oc 
 cupied by the army, the library was removed to Wrentham, 
 and intrusted to his care and keeping. Mr. Williams was 
 twice married. His first wife, as already stated, was a 
 daughter of Col. Miller, Dr. Manning s colleague in Con 
 gress. In 1804 he was married to Mrs. Dolly Hancock, 
 of Wrentham, daughter of a Mr. Titus. He was the father 
 of seven children, several of whom still survive him. 1 
 
 We append to the foregoing sketch a copy of Mr. Wil- 
 liams s " parchment," which the curious may wish to com 
 pare with the diplomas of the present day : 
 
 Omnibus ad quos praesentes Literae pervenerint salutem. Notum sit 
 quod Collegii in Anglicana Rhodiorum Providentiatiumque Colonia inter 
 Nov. Anglos in America Sociorum Ordo Gulielmo Williams juveni probo 
 et ingenuo, in omnibus Humanitatis Literarumque Studiis in nostra Acad- 
 einia institute, et Examine sufficiente previo approbate Baccalaurei 
 Gradum decrevit, publicis in Comitiis apud Warren in Colonia supradicta 
 habitis Die Septimo Septembris Annoque Domini Millesimo Septingen- 
 tessimo Sexagessimo Nono. In Cujus Rei Testimonium Sigillum Collegii 
 huic Membranae affixum Nominaque nostra subscripta sunt. 
 
 JACOBUS MAVNING, Praeses. 
 
 DAVID HOELL, Phil. Professor. 
 
 THOMAS EYRES, Secretary. 
 
 1 Sprague s Annals of the American Pulpit. 
 
CHAPTER III. 
 
 1769-1770. 
 
 Erection of a College edifice, and place of location Warren. East Greenwich, 
 Newport, and Providence contend for the honor Meeting of the Corporation 
 at Newport in reference thereto Final contest between Newport and Prov 
 idence Subscriptions in Newport Final meeting of the Corporation on the 
 question of location Names of the thirty-five members present Decision in 
 favor of Providence Letter to Rev. Hezekiah Smith giving a detailed account 
 of this meeting Proceedings of the Corporation with reference to Manning s 
 removal to Providence Comparison between Providence and Newport at 
 this time Attempt to establish another college, at Newport Home-lot of 
 Chad Brown selected for the location of the College Plans of Nassau Hall, 
 Princeton, adopted for the building Corner-stone laid by John Brown 
 Manning sunders his connection with the church at Warren His struggles 
 of mind in regard to duty Removes to Providence Remarks of Prof. God- 
 dard respecting his position at this time Letter to Rev. Dr. Stennett, of 
 London Stennett s reply Efforts of Rev. Hezekiah Smith to secure funds 
 for the College, in South Carolina and Georgia Letter from Rev. Oliver 
 Hart in reference thereto Account of the first Commencement in Providence 
 Letter to Thomas Lapham, of Smithfield, illustrating the early discipline of 
 the College Biographical Sketch of Rev. Isaac Backus Sketch oi Rev. Dr. 
 Samuel Stillman Sketch of Rev. Dr. Hezekiah Smith - Extracts from Smith s 
 correspondence while in the Army Influence of the Brown family upon the 
 College Biographical sketches of their Ancestors: I. Chad Brown; II. John 
 Brown; III. James Brown ; IV. James Brown Biographical sketches of the 
 " Four Brothers," Nicholas, Joseph, John, and Moses Brown Transit of Ve 
 nusDestruction of the schooner Gaspee. 
 
 AT the time of the Commencement at Warren, the col 
 lege, says Edwards, " was for the most part friendless and 
 moneyless, and therefore forlorn, insomuch that an edifice 
 was hardly thought of. But frequent remittances being 
 made from England, some began to hope, and many to fear 
 that the institution would come to something, and stand. 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. in. 
 
 Then a building and the place of it were talked of, which 
 opened a new scene of troubles and contentions, that had 
 well-nigh ruined all." 
 
 Warren was at first selected as a suitable place for the 
 final location of the college, and a committee was appointed 
 to purchase materials for an edifice, secure a lot, and so 
 licit subscriptions. The church in Warren anticipating, 
 perhaps, the action of the corporation, voted that "the 
 meeting-house in this town be and is for the use of the 
 corporation and President at Commencement times, and 
 oftener, if wanted by either, only so as not to interfere 
 with divine worship; provided, that the college edifice 
 be founded and built in the county of Bristol ; and that 
 the parsonage-house in said Warren be for the use of the 
 President, so long as the President be our minister." 
 
 But soon afterwards, continues Edwards, " some, who 
 were unwilling it should be anywhere, did so far agree as 
 to lay aside the said location, and propose that the county 
 which should raise the most money should have the col 
 lege." 
 
 Application having been made to the corporation by 
 gentlemen from East Greenwich and vicinity, setting forth 
 that they had opened a subscription for the college, on 
 condition that the edifice be erected in the county of Kent, 
 and requesting an opportunity for assigning their reasons 
 why the vote of Sept. 7th, fixing the location at Warren 
 should be reconsidered, a special meeting of the corpora 
 tion was held at Newport, on the 14th of November, 1769. 1 
 
 1 Although no formal action in reference to a building and location was taken 
 by the corporation until about this time, it appears from the following extract 
 from Hezekiah Smith s Diary, that subscriptions were secured at an earlier 
 period: 
 
 u Tuesday, Sept. 3, 1765. Went to Newport, and stayed at Col. Bennet s till 
 Saturday. Wednesday and Thursday I was with the corporation, which sat upon 
 
1769-1770. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 109 
 
 At this meeting, which was adjourned from day to day, 
 after a protracted discussion it was voted that the edifice 
 be at Providence, unless within six weeks a larger sub 
 scription should be raised in Newport County, " superior 
 to any now offered." The main contest was from this 
 time between Providence and Newport. The friends of 
 the college who desired its location in the latter place 
 soon succeeded in obtaining a subscription amounting to 
 about four thousand pounds, lawful money, being a larger 
 subscription than any that had yet been obtained. 1 Ac 
 cordingly a final meeting on the subject was held at War 
 ren, on Wednesday, Feb. 7th, 1770. 
 
 the college business, and was elected one of the Fellows of the college. On 
 Thursday, 5th, Mr. Manning was chosen President. We, although but part of 
 the corporation, subscribed for the building and endowing the college nineteen 
 hundred and ninety-two dollars." 
 
 i The following is the heading and preamble to this subscription, which we copy 
 from an original paper. Among the largest subscribers on this occasion was 
 Abraham Redwood, Esq., founder of the " Redwood Library." He afterwards 
 subscribed, says the Providence Gazette, five hundred pounds sterling towards 
 a second college or university, which it was proposed to erect in Newport. 
 
 SUBSCRIPTIONS FOK THE KHODE ISLAND COLLEGE. 
 
 Whereas the Governor and Company of the English Colony of Rhode Island 
 and Providence Plantations, in New England in America, by an act passed at 
 their session in Feb., 1764, incorporated certain persons, therein mentioned, into a 
 body politic, and granted them full power and ample authority to found and 
 endow a college or university in said colony : And whereas a sufficient number 
 of the persons so appointed have qualified themselves agreeable to said act, and 
 are taking the most probable measures for forming so useful and honorable an 
 institution, which will necessarily be attended with considerable expense: We, 
 therefore, the subscribers, sensible that nothing hath a greater tendency to adorn 
 human nature and to promote the true interest and happiness of mankind than 
 useful literature, and that the fixing the college in the town of Newport will be 
 attended with the greatest advantages to the said institution, do, in considera 
 tion thereof, each one for himself, promise and engage to give, and accordingly 
 to pay, unto Job Bennet, Esq., treasurer of the said corporation, or his successor 
 in said office, or order, the several sums affixed to our names, respectively, to be 
 applied primarily to the building a suitable college edifice, and the surplus in 
 such a manner as the said corporation shall think most conducive to answer 
 
 10 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 Thirty-five members of the corporation were present ; 
 namely, Trustees (giving their names as they stand upon 
 the records) The Chancellor, Hon. Samuel Ward Esq., 
 George Hazard Esq., Mr. Peleg Barker, Rev. Russell Ma 
 son, Mr. John Warner, Nicholas Brown Esq., Mr. Nathan 
 Spear, Nicholas Cook Esq., Mr. Sylvester Childs, Hon. Jo- 
 sias Lyndon, Mr. John Tanner, Hon. Joseph Wanton Jr., 
 Mr. Thomas Greene, Mr. Joseph Brown, Joseph Russell 
 Esq., Ephraim Bowen Esq., Mr. Edward Thurston Jr., 
 Mr. John G. Wanton, Rev. Gardner Thurston, Rev. Sam 
 uel Winsor, Rev. Isaac Backus, Daniel Jenckes Esq., Job 
 Bennet Esq., James Helme Esq., Mr. William Brown, Rev. 
 John Maxson, Darius Sessions Esq. 28. 
 
 Fellows The President, Rev. Edward Upham, Mr. 
 Thomas Eyres, Joshua Babcock Esq., Rev. Samuel Still- 
 man, Henry Ward Esq., Jabez Bowen Jr. Esq. 7. 
 
 At this meeting subscriptions and securities were finally 
 offered to the corporation, from the town and county of 
 Newport, to the amount of 4558 14s., lawful money, the 
 greater part being expressly conditioned that the college 
 be placed in said town. From the town and county 
 of Providence were offered subscriptions and securities 
 amounting to 4399 13s. The final vote, as appears from 
 the records, was as follows : 
 
 " Whereas the corporation have fully heard committees from the coun 
 ties of Newport, Kent, and Bristol, upon their application for a repeal of 
 the vote of this corporation, on the 16th day of November last, for loca 
 ting the college edifice in the town of Providence, and maturely considered 
 the several sums offered, and all the arguments used by all the parlies 
 concerned, and thereupon the vote being put, Recede or Not, it passed 
 in the negative twenty-one votes to fourteen. It is therefore Resolved, 
 
 the ends of their institution. Provided, nevertheless, and this subscription is 
 made upon express condition, that the college edifice be erected in the said town 
 of Newport; otherwise the same shall be void. 
 
1709-1770. BROWN UNIVERSITY. Ill 
 
 That the said edifice be built in the town of Providence, and there be con 
 tinued forever." 
 
 We have thus given a brief account of the location 
 of the college, compiled mainly from the original records. 
 The following letter from the President to the Bev. 
 Hezekiah Smith, who was now collecting funds for the 
 institution, in South Carolina and Georgia, gives a very 
 animated account of this memorable meeting of the cor 
 poration : 
 
 WARREN, Feb. 12, 1770. 
 
 REVEREND SIR : Last week I received a letter from you of the 2d ult., 
 in which you inform me of your success at Georgia, and your expectations 
 from the South province. All your friends here rejoice that you succeed 
 so well in getting the needful for the college. " Great luck to you/ as 
 said Mr. Francis in his prayer. I thought it strange that I had no letter 
 by Capt. Durphee from you or Mr. Hart, as I wrote by him to you both. 
 Last week I received a letter from Nelson, at Haverill, and he gives me 
 a pleasing account of matters there. Had not his modesty forbid, I im 
 agine he would have told me that the people were well suited with him. 
 We had another meeting of the corporation last Wednesday, when there 
 were thirty-five members present. They were called to consider proposals 
 from Newport in favor of setting the edifice in that town, as they had 
 raised by subscription 4000, lawful money, 1 taking in their unconditional 
 subscription. - But Providence presented 4280, lawful, 1 and advantages 
 superior to Newport in other respects. The dispute lasted from Wednes 
 day last, ten o clock, A. M., until the same hour on Thursday, P. M. The 
 matter was debated with great spirit, and before a crowded audience. The 
 vote was put, Recede or Not 1 It went Not, by 21 against 14. You asked 
 me in your last whether it had not raised a party in the government. I 
 answer no ; but it has warmed up the old one something considerable. I 
 was greatly censured by people in Newport for not joining to call a meet- 
 
 i The reader will observe here a discrepancy between Manning s statement 
 and the records. This we can only account for on the supposition that Man 
 ning presents, in a familiar way, the general aspect of the question at the com 
 mencement of the dispute, whereas the records give the final result. It is evi 
 dent that other considerations besides those of a pecuniary character determined 
 the location of the college. 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 ing about the first of January, and a great noise was made because I 
 would not act contrary to an express vote of the corporation at the meet 
 ing on the 10th of November. But at our last meeting the house gave 
 me liberty to attempt a vindication of my conduct, and after hearing me 
 through in the matter, they came to a vote, nemine contradicenle, that they 
 saw no reason why I should be blamed in this matter, and that they ap 
 proved of my conduct. In the course of the debates there was sometimes 
 undue warmth, but, upon the whole, it subsided, and all parties seemed 
 much more unanimous than I expected, in after business. Many of the 
 gentlemen of Newport said they had had a fair hearing, and had lost it ; 
 but their friendship to the college remained, and they would keep their 
 places, pay their money, and forward to their utmost the design. The 
 college edifice is to be on the same plan as that of Princeton, built of brick, 
 four stories high, and one hundred and fifty feet long. I wish I had a 
 draught to send you, but it is not in my power. They determine to have 
 the roof on next fall, and to cover it with slate, as they are now able. 
 Now if we can get it endowed, we shall be compos voti. This I hope you 
 will in part accomplish. I have thought of going to the Jerseys in the 
 spring. If I should, I cannot go to Haverill the first of May ; for I must 
 consult my westward friends in a matter of so much consequence as mov 
 ing or not moving with the college. If I go to the Jerseys, it will probably 
 be about the middle of April. Religion is upon the revival in these parts. 
 Messrs. Stillman and Spear were up from Boston, and Backus from 
 Middleborough. It is said that the eight ministers at the corporation 
 meeting were all for Providence. This I shall not assert, however. But 
 I believe the Baptist society in general are not dissatisfied a_t the determi 
 nation. I could tell you a long tale if I had time, but can only tell you 
 that we have twenty-three scholars, eighteen of whom are matriculated. 
 Mrs. Manning joins in love to you, Mr. and Mrs. Hart, etc., with, sir, 
 Your unworthy brother, and servant in the gospel, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 At this meeting of the corporation it was also resolved: 
 
 " That the Rev. Messrs. Edward Upham, Isaac Backus, Samuel Stillman, 
 Gardner Thurston, John Maxson, Russell Mason, and Samuel Winsor, or 
 any three of them, be a committee to wait upon Mr. President Manning, 
 and inform him of the hearty approbation we have of his conduct, care, 
 and government of the college, and request him still to sustain the office 
 he hath discharged with so much honor, and to go with the college to 
 
1769-1770. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. H3 
 
 Providence when it shall be removed ; and that they treat with the con 
 gregation of which the President is pastor, and inform them of this request, 
 and endeavor to procure their consent to his removal; and that they 
 report to the next corporation meeting." 
 
 This cautious delicacy, remarks Prof. Goddarcl, with 
 which the corporation interfered with President Manning s 
 existing relations, presents a somewhat grateful contrast 
 to the unceremonious and otherwise questionable modes 
 of procedure, which, under similar circumstances, are now 
 sometimes adopted. 
 
 The final decision to locate the college at Providence, 
 although a wise one, as the result has proved, seems never 
 theless remarkable in view of the relative importance of 
 the two rival candidates for the honor. Providence was 
 then a town, with a population of less than four thousand, 
 while Newport was the second city in New England, and 
 the centre of opulence, refinement, and learning. In her 
 extensive commerce and trade, her numerous manufacto 
 ries, and her merchant princes, she excelled indeed all other 
 cities in the American Colonies. As early as 1729, Bishop 
 Berkley, in one of his letters to a friend in Dublin, described 
 Newport " as the most thriving place in all America for 
 bigness." The late Dr. Waterhouse, in a newspaper arti- 
 
 O 
 
 cle published in 1824, thus writes : " The island of Rhode 
 Island, from its salubrity and surpassing beauty, before the 
 Revolutionary War so sadly defaced it, was the chosen 
 resort of the rich, and philosophic, from nearly all parts of 
 the civilized world." Among the arguments advanced in 
 favor of Newport, was the advantage to be derived by the 
 professors and students from the Redwood Library. This 
 was at the time the second library in the country, contain 
 ing about fifteen hundred choice books on the arts and 
 sciences, and especially rich in classical and theological lore. 
 10* 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 Providence, on the other hand, had no such literary ad 
 vantages. But her situation was more convenient, and in 
 case of any rupture with the British Government, of which 
 there were strong probabilities at this time, she was much 
 less exposed to an invasion or attack. Besides, here Roger 
 Williams found his home and resting-place, and here was 
 the centre of Baptist influence. Hence the " Baptist Soci 
 ety," as Manning designates the denomination at large, 
 were not dissatisfied with the final action of the corpo 
 ration. It will be observed that Providence, according 
 to the records, offered a less amount in subscriptions and 
 securities than her defeated rival. 
 
 One of the results of the location of this institution at 
 Providence, was an application to the General Assembly, 
 by another set of petitioners, for another college. At the 
 February session, 1770, a charter for an academy and col 
 lege, to be located in Newport, passed the lower house of 
 the Assembly, by twenty majority. The application, says 
 Judge Staples, was not favorably received in the upper 
 house, where it was either rejected or indefinitely post 
 poned. 1 The following action of the corporation, at a 
 special meeting held in Warren on the 2d of April, is the 
 probable explanation of the defeat of this project : 
 
 " Resolved, That this corporation make application to the General As 
 sembly, and pray that a petition now before the Assembly, for granting a 
 charter to another college, be rejected." 
 
 " Voted, That the Chancellor, the President, Hon. Darius Sessions, 
 Eev. Samuel Stillman, Col. Job Bennet, and the Secretary (Thomas 
 Eyres), be a committee to draw a memorial to the General Assembly, pur 
 suant to the preceding vote." 
 
 The said memorial or remonstrance .having been pre 
 pared and approved, it was 
 
 1 Annals of Providence, p. 529. 
 
1709-1770. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. I 15 
 
 Voted That the Hon. Stephen Hopkins, Hon. Samuel Ward, Hon. 
 Darius Sessions, Job Bonnet, Moses Brown, Daniel Jenckes, John Til- 
 linghast, Oliver Arnold, and James Mitchell Varnum, be, and they or tl 
 major.part of them are, appointed a committee to be present at the Gen 
 eral Assembly, and enforce the said remonstrance." 
 
 The location of the edifice having thus been finally de 
 termined upon, the building committee prosecuted their 
 labors with great energy and zeal. The lot selected for it 
 comprised originally eight acres, including a portion of the 
 "home-lot" of Chad Brown, the "first Baptist elder in 
 Rhode Island." It was for this reason purchased by John 
 and Moses Brown, and a deed of the same given by them 
 to the corporation, that the college might stand on the 
 original lot 1 of their pious ancestor. The plans which the 
 
 i This lot, extending from Main Street to Tower Street, and also the home- 
 lots of George Rickard and John Warner, which came into the possession of ( 
 Brown, descended, on the death of said Brown, to his eldest son, John, who, , 
 1G72 gave a deed thereof to his brothers James and Jeremiah, reserving the f; 
 ilv burial ground, situated a little west from the old Town House, on College 
 Street It was afterwards sold to Daniel Abbot, from whom it descended to h: 
 son Daniel, and from him, the middle part whereon University Hall now stands 
 to Samuel Fenner, of Cranston, a nephew of Abbot s wife. It was purchased , 
 Tenner in 1770, by John and Moses Brown, and by them sold to the corporation, 
 for the sum of three hundred and thirty dollars, paid by a discount from their 
 subscriptions, in order that the college < might stand on the original lot of the 
 first Baptist elder in this State." (See papers of the late Moses Brown.) 
 
 The following extract from the Record of Deeds, Book 19, p. 108, will be in 
 teresting to the antiquarian. It presents a clear and accurate accc 
 southern half of the original college premises. 
 
 EXTRACT PROM DEED OF COLLEGE LOT. 
 
 "To all people to whom these presents shall come: We, John Brown and 
 Moses Brown, both of Providence, in the County of Providence and Colony of 
 Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, merchants, send greeting : - Know y , 
 that we, the said John and Moses Brown, lor and in consideration of the s 
 three hundred and thirty dollars, to us in hand already paid by the .Trustees a 
 Fellows of the college or university in the English Colony of Rhode Island 
 and Providence Plantations, in New England in America, the recent whereof 
 fey . discount out of the sums we have severally subscribed to the college, we do 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. IK. 
 
 committee adopted for the building were, in the main, those 
 of Nassau Hall, Princeton, which, as we have before re 
 marked, was regarded as one of the finest structures in the 
 country. They broke ground on Tuesday, the 27th day 
 of March, 1770, and on the 14th day of May following, the 
 
 hereby acknowledge, have given, granted, bargained, sold, aliened, enfeoffed, con 
 veyed, and confirmed, and by these presents do give, grant, sell, alien, convey, 
 and confirm unto said Trustees and Fellows, and to their successors and assigns 
 forever, one certain piece or parcel of land lying in the town of Providence, 
 bounded . : . . . which said piece of land contains about four acres, and became 
 the property of us, said Moses and John Brown, by a deed of bargain and sale 
 from Samuel Fenner, of Cranston, who received it as one of the legatees of Daniel 
 Abbott, Esq., late of said Providence, deceased, who received the northerly third 
 part thereof from bis father, Daniel Abbott, by descent, who purchased the same of 
 James Brown, who received it of his brother John Brown, the present grantor s 
 great-grandfather, who received it by descent from his father Chad Brown, who 
 was one of the original proprietors after the native Indians of whom it was pur 
 chased, and is the middle part of that which was his houselot or home-share of 
 land so called ; the other two thirds being the middle part of the original house- 
 lot or home-share of George Rickard, since called John Warner s, which part was 
 conveyed by the said Rickard to the said Chad Brown, from whom it descended 
 to his aforesaid son John, who conveyed it to his brother Jeremiah Brown, who 
 conveyed the same to the aforesaid Daniel Abbott the elder, from whom it de 
 scended to Daniel Abbott the younger, and became Samuel Fenner s as aforesaid : 
 the whole of this piece of land making the southern half of the lot and highway 
 leading to it whereon the college edifice is now erecting." 
 
 Signed Aug. 1st, 1770, by John Brown and his wife Sarah, Moses Brown and 
 his wife Anna, and Stephen Hopkins, Chief Justice. Recorded Jan. 7, 1771, in 
 book 19, page 108. 
 
 The northern half of the original college premises, consisting of about four 
 acres of land, was purchased by the corporation, as per deed recorded in the 
 aforesaid book, page 106, of Oliver Bowen, of Providence, one of the legatees of 
 the aforesaid Daniel Abbott, Esq.. for the sum of four hundred dollars. Mr. 
 Abbott, says the record, " took it by descent from his father Daniel Abbott, who 
 received two thirds part of it, being on the north side, from Robert Williams, by 
 deed of gift, who purchased it by deed of bargain and sale of Robert Morrice, 
 who purchased of Daniel Abbott the first, who was an original proprietor after 
 the native Indians. The other third part the second named Daniel Abbott pur 
 chased by deed of bargain and sale from his brother John Brown, who took it 
 by descent from his father Chad Brown." It will thus be seen that Chad Brown 
 originally owned, or came into the possession of all the land which constituted 
 he original college premises, with the exception of a small portion which at first 
 belonged to Daniel Abbott. 
 
BROWN UNIVERSITY. 117 
 
 corner-stone of what is now called University Hall was 
 laid by John Brown. This stone is said by Mr. Howland 
 to have been the first one laid in the foundation, at the 
 bottom of the cellar wall, in the southwest corner of the 
 building. Tradition adds that Mr. Brown, in accordance 
 with the customs of the times, generously treated the 
 crowd with punch, in honor of the joyful occasion. 
 
 Mr. Edwards describes the location selected by the com 
 mittee as " remarkably airy, healthful, and pleasant ; being 
 the summit of a hill pretty easy of ascent, and command 
 ing a prospect of the town of Providence below, of the 
 Narraganset Bay and the islands, and of an extensive coun 
 try, variegated with hills and dales, woods and plains," etc. 
 Surely, he adds, " this spot was made for a seat of the 
 Muses." 
 
 Meanwhile the President was prayerfully considering 
 the sundering of his connection with the church in Warren ; 
 an event in which his tenderest and best feelings were in 
 volved. It is true that the compensation which he had 
 thus far received for his various labors had been barely 
 sufficient for his support. " While, however," says Prof. 
 Goddard, " his outward man was thus a stranger to the 
 luxurious accommodations of life, his inner man was sus 
 tained by the ennobling consciousness that he lived not in 
 vain ; that he was treading with cheerful alacrity the path 
 of appointed trial ; and that through his agency multi 
 tudes were becoming wiser and better, for time and for 
 eternity. On this passage in the life of Dr. Manning it is 
 delightful to dwell. It is delightful to turn aside from 
 scenes of political ambition and ecclesiastical turbulence, 
 which now mar our peace, and to repose for a while upon 
 a bygone example of unaffected humility, of quiet duty, 
 and confiding prnyer. He had been elected President of 
 
118 MANNING AND 
 
 CHAP. III. 
 
 Rhode Island College ; and the future prosperity of that 
 institution was thought to depend on its removal to Prov 
 idence. So affectionately desirous, however, was Dr. Man 
 ning of the people of his care, many of whom had, through 
 his instrumentality, experienced the transforming efficacy 
 of the religion of Christ, that he could not find it iii his 
 heart to leave them. To avoid a separation so painful to his 
 sensibilities, he even proposed to resign the elevated station 
 to which he had just been appointed. To this proposition 
 his influential friends would not listen, and they persuaded 
 him to abandon all thought of resigning the presidentship. 1 
 While we are compelled to think that his final decision 
 was a wise one, we honor the feelings which well-nigh be 
 trayed his judgment. Under similar circumstances, how 
 few men would have faltered, how few would have sought 
 to renounce the pathway to literary and social distinction, 
 for the unambitious career of a village pastor!" 
 
 After consulting with his family and friends, and corres 
 ponding with various members of the corporation, Man 
 ning, as has already been observed, decided to resign his 
 pastoral charge, which he did on the 26th of April, 1770, 
 " to the wonderment," in the language of the church rec 
 ords, " of his people ; he being greatly admired and re 
 nowned." In May following he removed with his pupils 
 and undergraduates to Providence. On taking up his 
 
 i On this subject the Rev. Morgan Edwards wrote him from Philadelphia as 
 follows: " I cannot help being angry with you when you talk of another Presi 
 dent. Have you endured so much hardship in vain? We have no man that will 
 do so well as you. Talk no more, think no more of quitting the presidency, un 
 less you have a mind to join issue with those projectors and talkers who mean no 
 more than to hinder anything from being done. If you go to Providence, the 
 Warren people may have a supply; if they were willing to part with you, it is 
 likely the college would have no reason to covet you. " Rowland s biographical 
 Sketch of Manning. 
 
1769-1770. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 abode here, he occupied, says Rowland, the old house of 
 Benjamin Bowen, on the lot at the corner of Bowen and 
 North Main Streets, where Mr. Richmond s brick house 
 now stands. Mr. Howell and the students boarded in 
 private families, at one dollar and a quarter per week. 
 There they studied, and at certain hours of the day met 
 in one of the chambers of the brick schoolhouse, now the 
 house of the Meeting Street colored school, for prayers 
 and recitations. These details, trifling though they may 
 appear, nevertheless afford an insight into the condition 
 and management of the college at this period, and a view 
 of Manning s position, better than more formal statements. 
 " Dr. Manning," says Goddard, whose chaste and expres 
 sive language we again quote, " now entered upon a thea 
 tre of enlarged and responsible action. The college was 
 yet in its infancy, and demanded his parental supervision ; 
 its funds were scanty, and needed to be recruited; its 
 actual system of discipline and instruction was imperfect, 
 and required not only to be improved, but to be adapted 
 to the new circumstances under which it was hereafter to 
 be administered. To these important objects he devoted 
 himself, with patience and energy, and with that spirit of 
 self-denial which is essential to the success of great enter 
 prises, and which great enterprises are apt to inspire. In 
 the beneficent work of establishing, within the little Col 
 ony of Rhode Island, a public seminary for the educa 
 tion of youth in the vernacular and learned languages, and 
 in the liberal arts and sciences, he was aided by the effi 
 cient cooperation of the Rev. Messrs. Edwards, Smith, 
 Stillman, Backus, Gano, and others of his clerical brethren. 
 It is, however, perhaps not too much to say, that, but for 
 the enlightened zeal and substantial liberality of a few 
 Baptist laymen, citizens of Providence, the college would 
 
120 MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 have been slow in winning its way to general repute. 
 These public-spirited men, though strangers themselves to 
 the discipline of schools of learning, knew how to prize 
 the benefits of high intellectual culture. Though self- 
 educated, they were without a particle of hostility to the 
 distinctions of learning, or of that affected contempt for 
 learned men with which the uncultivated sometimes seek 
 to console their deficiencies. Moved by a generous ardor, 
 they determined that their children and the children of 
 their contemporaries should enjoy, to the remotest gener 
 ations, opportunities for intellectual improvement denied 
 to themselves. Well have they been repaid for their 
 efforts in this good cause. Their activity and enterprise in 
 the accumulation of wealth are now well-nigh forgotten ; 
 but still fresh is the memory of all their deeds in behalf of 
 science and letters and religion." 
 
 A part of Manning s plan was to secure by correspond 
 ence the cooperation and assistance of friends in England. 
 In pursuance of this plan, he addressed a letter to the 
 Rev. Dr. Samuel Stennett, for thirty-seven years the faith 
 ful and affectionate pastor of the Baptist church in Little 
 Wild Street, London. Mr. Stennett was regarded as one 
 of the most eminent ministers of his own denomination. 
 His connections too with Protestant Dissenters generally, 
 and with members of the Established Church, were large 
 and respectable. One of his constant hearers was the 
 philanthropist John Howard, whom Burke has so highly 
 eulogized, George III., it is said, was on terms of inti 
 macy with him, frequently calling at his house on Mus- 
 well Hill. As a scholar and an author Mr. Stennett had 
 no small repute. His Works, edited by the Rev. William 
 Jones, were published in 1824, in three octavo volumes. 
 
17G9-1770. BUOWX UNIVERSITY. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, June 7, 1770. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 Although unknown to you, I take the freedom to trouble you with read- 
 in- a letter from an unworthy friend. I was urged to this partly by the 
 desire of our common friend, Mr. Henry Williams, merchant of New 
 York, and partly because I have often heard that you arc a lover of our 
 nation, and are engaged to further the interests of the Baptist society ; as 
 also that you may be informed of the state of our college, the interests of 
 which I am told you have at heart, Of this the late very acceptable pre 
 sent of your two Volumes of Sermons is an additional proof. I heartily 
 wish that your example may be followed by others of our friends who 
 have written for the public. 
 
 It was resolved, after long deliberation, to place the college edifice in 
 the town of Providence in this colony, as most conducive to the ends of 
 its institution. This, however, has been attended with considerable diffi 
 culty ; but I forbear to trouble you with the recital of our little affairs. The 
 foundation of the college is now laid, and the building proceeds faster 
 than could have been expected, its magnitude considered, which is one 
 hundred and fifty by forty-six feet, with a projection in the middle, of ten 
 feet on each side, for the public rooms. It is to be four stories high, with 
 an entry of twelve feet through the middle of each, and is to be built of 
 brick, "it will contain fifty-six rooms in all. The town of Providence it 
 self has nearly provided for the building, as they have raised by subscrip 
 tion near 4000, lawful money, at six shillings per dollar. The beneficence 
 of a few Baptists in this place, their fortunes considered, is almost unparal 
 leled. I should rejoice to find many elsewhere like-minded. "\Ve should 
 then sec the college properly endowed, as well as founded. This we must 
 expect from abroad. Added to the sum collected by Mr. Edwards in Eu 
 rope, our Brother Ilezekiah Smith, of Haverhill, has collected and obtained 
 subscriptions in South Carolina and Georgia, from whence he has just 
 returned, to the amount of about 500 sterling. 
 
 It would be happy for us if we could find in England a family of IIol- 
 lises ! to patronize our college ; but I fear the Baptists are not to expect 
 
 i Concerning the Hollis family, who for nearly a century continued their ben 
 efactions to Harvard College, we may hero state in brief, what Pierce and 
 Quincy have given at length in their histories of the University. Thomas Ilollis, 
 the father of the "benefactor," was born in 1634, and died in 1718. His son, 
 called, by reason of his donations to Harvard, Thomas Hollis, 1st, died in 1731. 
 A second son, Nathaniel, died in 1738. A third sou, John, was a partner in 
 11 
 
lL>2 MANNING AND 
 
 such an instance of public spirit in their favor, although I have heretofore 
 indulged such hopes, and am yet unwilling to give them up. 
 
 Two young men have already engaged in the ministry who have been 
 assisted by this institution, and both from their beginnings give promise of 
 usefulness. Their first attempts have thus far been highly acceptable to the 
 public. May the Lord of the harvest thrust out many more faithful 
 laborers. In this part of the world the field for labor is very large, while 
 the faithful and well-furnished laborers arc truly few. To my great sat 
 isfaction, I lately received certain information of the conversion to Baptist 
 principles of a young Presbyterian minister, eminent for his piety and 
 success as a preacher. The manner in which this was, by Divine Provi 
 dence, brought about, is somewhat singular. He was preaching upon John 
 xiv. 15, when truth was let into his mind with such vividness as com 
 pelled him to open the nature of the ordinance of baptism so clcarlv as to 
 convince the church, of which he was pastor, that believer s baptism by 
 immersion only is a divine institution. In consequence of this, they sent a 
 messenger to me to corne and administer the ordinance to both minister and 
 people, the most of whom expect immediately to submit thereto. As they, 
 however, arc more than one hundred miles distant from me, and near Mr. 
 Smith, 1 he has engaged to supply my place. I am also told that God is do- 
 
 busmess with his brother Thomas. Thomas Hollis, 2d, son of Nathaniel, died in 
 1735. The total amount of the benefactions of this family up to this date, " ex 
 ceeded," says Quincy, " 6000 currency of Massachusetts, which, considering 
 the value of money at that period, and the disinterested spirit by which 
 their chanties were prompted, constitutes one of the most remarkable in 
 stances of continued benevolence upon record." Thomas Hollis, 3d, was born 
 in 1720, and died in 1774. His donations to Harvard College during his lifetime 
 exceeded 1400 sterling. Timothy llollis died in 1791, at an advanced age. He 
 gave 20 sterling for the library. Thomas Brand Hollis, the last of the bene 
 factors, was born 1719, and died in 1804. His Memoirs were published in 1808, in 
 two handsome quarto volumes, by his friend the Rev. John Disney. 
 
 1 Rev. Hezekiah Smith. In his diary, now among the archives of the Univer 
 sity, we find the following: " Wednesday, June 13th. Went to Deerfield, and 
 preached from Acts xi.23: ; Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, 
 was glad, and exhorted them all that with purpose of heart they would cleave 
 unto the Lord." After the sermon I examined the Rev. Eliphalet Smith and a 
 number of his hearers for baptism. Thursday, 14th, I preached in Mr. Smith s 
 meeting-house from Col. ii. 11,12. After sermon I baptized fourteen persons, 
 whose names are as follows: Rev. Eliphalet Smith and his wife Nancy, Dea. 
 Wadley Cram and his wife Elizabeth, Samuel Winslowand his wife Jane, James 
 Philbrick and his wife Elizabeth, Jeremiah Present, Moses Clough, William Tir- 
 
1769-1770. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 ing marvellous things in Virginia and North and South Carolina amongst 
 the Baptists, bringing multitudes to submit to baptism according to Christ s 
 instructions. And we are not quite forsaken in New England. In several 
 towns on Cape Cod God is at work, although in general we have reason 
 to cry, " Our leanness, our leanness ! " 
 
 My situation in the centre of American intelligence, especially as I have 
 travelled through, and have correspondents in, most of the principal towns, 
 furnishes me with an opportunity of knowing almost everything interesting 
 to the Baptists ; of whose affairs, should you be disposed to hear, you may 
 depend upon receiving the best accounts I can collect, whenever you lay 
 your commands in this way. However agreeable the like from you would 
 be respecting affairs in Britain, yet, amidst your more important connec 
 tions and engagements, the utmost I presume to ask is your indulgence 
 for interrupting you by this tedious epistle, and beg leave to subscribe, 
 Dear sir, your most unworthy brother, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 To this letter Dr. Stennett thus replies : 
 
 LONDON, Aug. 10, 1770. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 I received your favor of June 7th, and take this opportunity of return 
 ing you my sincere thanks for it, and of assuring you that a correspond 
 ence with Mr. Manning, for whose character, before I received this ex 
 pression of his friendship, I had great respect, will afford me a particular 
 pleasure. I write by Mr. Gordon, 1 a minister of the Independent persua 
 sion of this city, who intends settling in America. He is a very sensible 
 and worthy man, and has ample recommendations with him. His po- 
 
 rill, Hannah Polsiper, Nancy Folsom, and Isaac Blasdel, of Chester, the rest of 
 Deerfield, who the same day were embodied into a Baptist church. A good day 
 it was, indeed. The goings of the Lord were very evident." Two days after 
 wards Mr. Smith baptized seven persons, one of whom was Dr. Samuel Shepard, 
 who, in 1771, was ordained as pastor over the church at Stratham. Mr. Stillman, 
 of Boston, preached the sermon, Mr. Smith gave the charge, and President Man 
 ning the right hand of fellowship. Dr. Shepard became a very active and highly 
 honored minister of the Baptist denomination. A sketch of his life appears in 
 Sprague s Annals of the American Pulpit. He was converted to Baptist senti 
 ments, it seems, by reading Norcott s work on Baptism. 
 
 i William Gordon. D.D. He settled in Roxbury, Mass., and afterwards wrote 
 a history entitled " The Rise, Progress, and Establishment of the Independence 
 of the United States of America," published in 1778, in four octavo volumes. 
 For a more extended notice of Gordon, see page 387. 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 litical speculations in favor of America, and some little misunderstanding 
 with his people occasioned by his not knowing how conscientiously to bap 
 tize all the children of those who attended his ministry, have engaged him 
 to leave us, and spend the remainder of his life with you. Where he shall 
 settle I believe he has not himself determined, but I imagine somewhere 
 about Philadelphia or New York. Should he take a tour your way, I 
 have no doubt he will meet with a friendly and brotherly reception at Prov 
 idence. I was educated at the same academy with him, and have a great 
 esteem and affection for him. Indeed, he is well known and esteemed by 
 all denominations here. 
 
 I am glad your college is in such forwardness, and that the design, 
 which is truly important, meets with so much encouragement among our 
 friends on your side of the water. The groundless prejudices which 
 have a long time prevailed among many good people of our persuasion, 
 will, I hope, in time subside; and nothing will contribute so much to the 
 removing of them as the zeal, good behavior, and, with the blessing of God, 
 success of the first young persons you send out into the ministry. I look 
 upon it as a very kind Providence that hath set you at the head of this 
 college ; and as I am sensible you must have many difficulties to contend 
 with, so I heartily pray you may have strength according to your day. 
 The success you have already met with is a circumstance which I doubt 
 not affords you no small encouragement, and I hope you will still, my 
 dear sir, meet with a great deal more. I shall rejoice to help forward 
 your design in any way that I am able. But you are sensible we have 
 not a great deal of wealth in our denomination, and few of the Baptists, 
 as I hinted before, are very warm advocates for learning. Dr. Llewelyn 
 is your very good friend, and I am persuaded would be glad of an acquaint 
 ance with Professor Manning. I speak not from any intimation on his 
 part, but from the particular knowledge I have of his character, and his 
 good dispositions towards your plan. We have had a great loss in Mr. 
 Roffey, 1 who died in April last, and through whose further good offices I 
 hoped your college would have been considerably benefited. But God 
 will, I hope, raise up friends. 
 
 I cannot now be so particular as I wish, as I write in a hurry. By the 
 
 i Mr. Roflfcy, it appears, was a benefactor of Rhode Island College. From the 
 records we find that at a meeting of the corporation held at Newport, Nov. 16, 
 1769, it was voted " That the thanks of this corporation be transmitted to Mr. 
 Samuel Roffey, for his generous benefactions to this institution, by the secre 
 tary." 
 
1700-1770. BliOWN UNIVERSITY. 125 
 
 hand that conveys this I have written to Mr. Stillman, of Boston, whom I 
 have, I fear, wearied with a very long scrawl. I rejoice in the agreeable 
 account you have favored me with, of the success of the gospel in many 
 parts, and that the truth with respect to baptism prevails. May the 
 knowledge of Christ and of his ways spread far and wide. We are not 
 without some instances of the power and grace of God among us ; and I 
 think the interest in many places revives. New associations of ministers 
 and congregations are lately set up in the country where there were none 
 before. 
 
 As to Dr. Moore s scheme, he has met with considerable success, though 
 as yet but little has been collected among the Baptists. I believe about 
 1000 is raised ; we have obtained also 1000 of the King. Trustees are 
 appointed for the management of the moneys collected, among whom, of 
 the Baptists, arc Mr. Stead, Dr. Llewelyn, and myself, who consider our 
 selves as particularly obliged to look after the interests of our friends in 
 Nova Scotia. 
 
 As to political matters, my time will allow me to say but little now. The 
 sovereignty of Parliament over all the British dominions seems to be the 
 great object of Government ; and yet I believe they would be glad to have 
 peace and harmony restored. I made use of the argument of policy, as 
 well as of the goodness of the cause itself, in favor of the discussion in 
 Nova Scotia, and it was duly attended to. I hope the discouragements 
 the Baptists have lately met with in America are removed, and their 
 grievances in some degree at least redressed. I am sure, however, it would 
 be good policy, to say no more of it, in the other denominations with you, 
 to treat them well. And our friends, I hope, see the importance and rea 
 sonableness of taking every united step that our divine religion teaches, 
 before they proceed further. But I must not run out any further at present. 
 
 It will, I assure you, my dear friend, afford me a very sensible pleasure 
 to hear from you quickly, and often ; and you will oblige me much by 
 favoring me with all the news you can. My sincere Christian regards to 
 Mr. Hezekiah Smith, for whose character I have a high esteem, and all 
 inquiring friends. I am, dear sir, 
 
 Your very affectionate friend and brother, 
 
 SAMUEL STENNETT. 
 
 The Rev. Hezekiah Smith, to whose efforts in behalf of 
 the college Manning in his letter refers, was desired by 
 11* 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 the corporation "to solicit benefactions for their use in the 
 Southern provinces." He left home on his important mis 
 sion Oct. 2, 17G9, and returned June 8, 1770, having been 
 absent from the people of his charge a little over eight 
 months. lie travelled extensively through South Caro 
 lina and Georgia, preaching as he had opportunity, and 
 prosecuting with energy and zeal the work to which he 
 had been appointed. His fervid piety, his eloquence, his 
 commanding presence, and genial manners, gained him 
 hearers, and rendered him everywhere a welcome guest. 
 He succeeded in obtaining subscriptions to the amount of 
 3710 17s. Gel., South Carolina currency, of which, 2287 
 5s. 7d. he received, and remitted at sundry times to the 
 treasurer of the corporation. His journal or diary, to 
 gether with his accounts, list of subscribers, etc., form a 
 document of rare interest and value, in connection with 
 the early history of the college. For his "great and gen 
 erous services " the corporation at their annual meeting, in 
 September, returned him their " hearty thanks." 
 
 The following letter from the Hev. Oliver Hart shows 
 how Mr. Smith was received, and the manner in which he 
 performed the duties of his mission : 
 
 CHARLESTON, April 17, 1770. 
 DEAR MR. MANNING : 
 
 As our good friend Mr. Smith is now almost ready to embark for your 
 Northern clime, I embrace the opportunity of sending you a few lines, 
 which I hope you will accept as a superadded token of my unfeigned re 
 gard. I am sorry that Mr. Smith is obliged to leave us so soon. His 
 labors have been acceptable to my people universally, and many others 
 have constantly crowded to hear him. Some, I trust, have received ad 
 vantage by his faithful preaching. Two young men were to see him last 
 night under soul concern. May the good work be carried on in their 
 hearts, and may we yet hear of many more being awakened to a sense of 
 their lost state by nature. As to his endeavors to serve the college, they 
 
1760-1770. 
 
 BKOWN UNIVERSITY. 127 
 
 have been indefatigable, and his success has been more than equal to what 
 could have been expected, all things considered. I am sure he has mer 
 ited the grateful acknowledgments of the corporation. No man could 
 have done more, and few would have done so much as he has, to serve the 
 institution. He has met Avith much opposition, and bore many reflec 
 tions, but none of these things have discouraged him. I heartily wish 
 the benefactions of this province may greatly promote the welfare of the 
 college. Great grace be with you. 
 
 I am, yours, etc. 
 
 OLIVER HART. 
 
 The first Commencement in Providence was held in 
 the meeting-house of the society now known as the Be 
 neficent Congregational Society, on the west side of the 
 river. In this house, then the largest in town, all subse 
 quent Commencements were held, until the completion of 
 the new Baptist meeting-hpuse in 177G. But four young 
 men graduated at this time ; one of whom, Hon. Theodore 
 Foster, represented Rhode Island for thirteen years in the 
 Senate of the United States, , and at his death left many 
 fruits of antiquarian research connected with Rhode Island 
 history. For the following account of this Commence 
 ment, we are again indebted to the Providence Gazette: 
 
 SECOND COMMENCEMENT. 1770. 
 
 " PROVIDENCE, Sept, 8. 
 
 u On Wednesday was celebrated here the second Commencement in 
 Rhode Island College. The parties concerned met at the courthouse, about 
 ten o clock, from whence they proceeded to the Ecv. Joseph Snow s meet 
 ing-house, in the following order : First the grammar scholars ; then the 
 underclasses, the candidates for degrees, the Bachelors, the Trustees of the 
 college, the Fellows, the Chancellor, the Governor of the Colony, and, 
 lastly, the President. When they were seated, the President introduced 
 the business of the day by prayer ; then followed the salutatory oration 
 in Latin, by Mr. Dennis, and a forensic dispute, with which ended the 
 exercises of the forenoon. 
 
1 28 MANNING AND CHAP, III. 
 
 " Those of the afternoon began with an intermediate oration on Catholi 
 cism, pronounced by Mr. Foster; then followed a syllogistic disputation 
 in Latin, wherein Mr. Foster was respondent, and Messieurs Nash, Read, 
 and Dennis, opponents. After this, the degree of Bachelor of Arts was 
 conferred on Messieurs John Dennis, Theodore Foster, Samuel Nash, and 
 Seth Eead ; and the degree of Master on the Rev. Isaac Eaton, Messieurs 
 William Bowen, Benjamin West, David Williams, Joseph Brown, and 
 Abel Evans ; also on the Rev. Messieurs Hugh Evans, Daniel Turner, 
 Samuel James, Benjamin Beddome, Benjamin Wallin, John Reynolds, 
 and Isaac Woodman. To which succeeded a valedictory oration by Mr. 
 Read, and then a charge to the graduates. 
 
 "The business of the day being concluded, and before the assembly 
 broke up, a piece from Homer was pronounced by Master Billy Edwards, 1 
 one of the grammar school boys, not nine years old. This, as well as the 
 other performances, gained applause from a polite and crowded audience, 
 and afforded pleasure to the friends of the institution. But what greatly 
 added to their satisfaction, was an opportunity of observing the forward 
 ness of the college edifice, the first stone of which was laid not longer 
 since than the latter end of May last, and tis expected the roof will be 
 on next month. It is a neat brick building, one hundred and fifty feet 
 by forty-six, four stories high, with a projection in the middle of ten feet 
 on each side, containing an area of sixty-three feet by thirty, for a hall 
 and other public uses. The building will accommodate upwards of a 
 hundred students. Its situation is exceedingly pleasant and healthy, being 
 on the summit of a hill, the ascent easy and gradual, commanding an ex 
 tensive prospect of hills, dales, plains, woods, water, islands, etc. Who 
 hath despised the day of small things ? " 
 
 The following letter was originally published in Judge 
 Staples s Annals of Providence. It affords a good illustra 
 tion of the early discipline of the college under the care 
 and management of its first President. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Dec. 12, 1770. 
 
 SIR : You may think strange that I, a stranger to you, should ad 
 dress you by this epistle ; but you will excuse me when I give the reason ; 
 which is, an information that I have received that one Scott, a youth 
 
 1 Son of the Rev. Morgau Edwards. He graduated in the Class of 1776. 
 
1769-1770. BROWN UNIVERSITY. T 23 
 
 under my tuition, some time ago riding through Smithfield, in company 
 with one Dennis, of Newport, rode up to,, and in a most audaciously 
 wicked manner, broke the windows of the Friends meeting-house in said 
 town, of which meeting I understand you arc clerk. Upon the first hear 
 ing of this scandalous conduct, I charged him with the fact, which he con 
 fessed, with no small degree of apparent penitence ; whereupon I thought 
 good to inform you, and by you the meeting, that they shall have ample rep 
 aration of damages, and such other satisfaction as they shall think proper ; 
 being determined to punish with the utmost rigor all such perverse youth 
 as may be intrusted to ray care, as I hold such base conduct in the great 
 est detestation, 
 
 You will be so good as to let me know when the first meeting of busi 
 ness is held, that I may send him up to appear before them, and make 
 not only reparation, but such a confession before the meeting as shall be 
 fully satisfactory. I choose to mortify him in this way, and should be very 
 glad that some of the heads of the meeting would admonish him faithfully 
 and show him the evil of such doings, if this would be agreeable to them ; 
 but I speak this, not to direct them in the matter, but what would be 
 agreeable to me. When this is settled, we shall discipline him with the 
 highest punishment we inflict, next to banishment from the society, and 
 with that if he does not comply with the above. 
 
 The youth has been but few months under my care, is a child of a re 
 spectable family in Kingston, Massachusetts Bay, and had his school- 
 learning at New Haven. I am sorry for his friends, arid that it happened 
 to fall to my lot to have such a thoughtless, vicious pupil ; but I am deter 
 mined this shall be the last enormity, one exceptcd, of which he shall be 
 guilty while under my care. I hope the meeting will inform me how he 
 complies with these injunctions, if they think proper to take these or any 
 other methods. Please, by the first opportunity, favor me with a line in 
 answer to the above requests, and you will do a favor to 
 
 A real friend, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 Mr. Thomas Lapham, Jr., in Smithfield. 
 
 The young man, Judge Staples adds, appeared before 
 the meeting, according to the direction o the President, 
 made a suitable acknowledgment of what he had done, 
 paid the damage done to the windows, received some 
 
1 >0 M A X X I X G A X D CHAP. III. 
 
 wholesome admonition and advice, arid returned to his 
 college duties, it is to be hoped, a better man. Whether 
 his associate was the Dennis who graduated the Septem 
 ber previous to this occurrence, we are not informed. It 
 is certain that he was not a youth or person over whom 
 Manning, at this time, had any special control. 
 
 It would seem proper to introduce here some account of 
 Backus, Stillman, and Smith, the three Baptist clergymen 
 of New England, with whom Manning was intimately as 
 sociated, and to whose active cooperation in all his plans 
 for the advancement of learning and religion, the denom 
 ination at the present day is so largely indebted for its 
 prosperity and greatness. 
 
 ISAAC BACKUS. 
 
 The name of Backus, it will be observed, is of frequent 
 occurrence throughout our w r ork. The following brief 
 sketch is compiled mainly from Prof. Hovey s Memoir, to 
 which our readers are referred for a fuller account of his 
 character and life. 
 
 The Rev. Isaac Backus was born at Norwich, Conn., on 
 the 9th of January, 1724. His parents were members of 
 the Congregational church. At the age of seventeen, 
 during the excitement that prevailed in consequence of 
 the preaching of Whitefield, he received his first perma 
 nent religious impressions, and united with the church. 
 Subsequently he was led to devote himself to the preach 
 ing of the gospel. In 1749 the subject of baptism was 
 agitated in the church of which he was the pastor, and 
 several of his members became, in consequence, Baptists. 
 Mr. Backus himself was soon afterwards baptized by im 
 mersion. On the 16th of January, 175G, the First Baptist 
 
1709-1770. BROWN TIN I VK II S I T Y. 
 
 Church in Middleborough was constituted, and he became 
 the pastor. This relation he retained until the close of 
 life. 
 
 In 1772 he was chosen agent for the Baptist churches 
 in Massachusetts, in place of Mr. Davis, whose ill-health 
 had compelled him to relinquish his charge as pastor of the 
 Second Church in Boston. This agency, which was de 
 signed for the promotion of religious liberty, and espe 
 cially to secure to the Baptists an exemption from the bur 
 dens imposed upon them by law, he executed with great 
 ability and success. In his labors in connection with this 
 agency, he was greatly assisted by Manning, whose supe 
 rior learning and more skilful pen proved invaluable aids 
 in times of emergency. 
 
 Mr. Backus, besides his volumes of history, published nu 
 merous discourses, essays, treatises on religious liberty, and 
 controversial tracts ; a list of which is given in the account 
 of him in Sprague s Annals of the American Pulpit. He 
 died on the 20th of November, 180G, in the eighty-third 
 year of his age, and in the sixtieth of his ministry. 
 
 "All New England," says the late Hon. Zechariah 
 Eddy, " is indebted to Mr. Backus more, I think, than to 
 any other man, for his researches in relation to our early 
 ecclesiastical history. Mr. Bancroft bears the most honor 
 able testimony to his fidelity, and considers his history, as 
 to its facts, more to be depended on than any other of the 
 
 early histories of New England In his own day, his 
 
 labors were certainly appreciated. It is truly wonderful 
 that, amidst the poverty and privations incident to the 
 war of the Revolution, there could have been awakened 
 interest enough to defray the expense of publishing large 
 volumes, of history, at the high price which was then de 
 manded for such works. . . . Mr. Backus was of a large, ro- 
 
1 32 M A X X I X G A X D CHAP. III. 
 
 bust, and muscular frame, made firm, probably, by his early 
 agricultural labors, arid by his travels on horseback the 
 greater part of his life. His large face and head appeared 
 more venerable by reason of his very large wig an adorn 
 ment of ministers in the times in which he lived." 
 
 Mr. Backus, we may add in conclusion, was a Trustee 
 of the college for a period of thirty-four years, resigning 
 his place in 1799, in consequence of the infirmities of age, 
 which prevented his attendance upon the meetings of the 
 corporation. 
 
 SAMUEL STILLMAN. 
 
 To the success which the college had in the earlier pe 
 riods of its history, the Rev. Dr. Stillman, it may truly be 
 said, was one of the principal contributors. His name ap 
 pears in the act of incorporation as one of the Trustees. 
 In 1765 he was elected a Fellow, an office which he held 
 until his death, a period of more than forty years. 
 
 He was punctual in his attendance upon all the regular 
 meetings of the corporation; and the great influence which 
 he exerted throughout the Baptist denomination was cheer 
 fully given in aid of the various interests of the college. 
 The following brief sketch of his character and life we 
 have compiled from memoirs of him now extant. 
 
 The Rev. Dr. Samuel Stillman was born in the city of 
 Philadelphia, Feb. 27, 1737. At the age of eleven he re 
 moved with his parents to Charleston, S. C., where, under 
 the direction of Mr. Rind, a teacher of some celebrity, he 
 received the rudiments of his education. He early gave 
 promise of intellectual and moral superiority. Having 
 become the subject of religious impressions, under the 
 preaching of the Rev. Oliver Hart, he was hopefully con- 
 
1769-1770 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 133 
 
 verted, and was afterwards received into the church, upon a 
 public profession of his faith by baptism. He pursued his 
 classical studies in part at the Hope well Academy, being 
 one of the first beneficiaries of " The Religious Society," 
 formed in 1755, for the purpose of aiding young men in 
 preparing for the ministry. He also pursued his theologi 
 cal studies at Charleston, under the care of his pastor, Mr. 
 Hart. On the 20th of February, 1750, at the age of twenty- 
 two, he was ordained, in the city of his home, to the work 
 of an evangelist. His first settlement in the ministry, 
 which occurred shortly after his ordination, was at James 
 Island, a beautiful place in the neighborhood of Charles 
 ton. About this time he married a Miss Morgan, daugh 
 ter of a highly respectable merchant, and sister of Dr. 
 John Morgan, who was distinguished as a surgeon in the 
 Revolution. This marriage proved to them both the 
 source of long-continued happiness. She was the mother 
 of fourteen children, only two of whom, however, survived 
 their father. On the 9th of January, 1765, he was installed 
 as pastor of the First Baptist Church in Boston. This was 
 a little less than two months after Manning had been 
 installed as pastor of the church in Warren. Thencefor 
 ward these two distinguished men seem closely united in 
 their efforts to bless the church, and to elevate the charac 
 ter and standing of the Baptist denomination. Dr. Still- 
 man retained his connection with the First Church in Bos 
 ton until his death, which occurred on the 13th of March, 
 1807, at the age of seventy. , 
 
 Dr. Stillman s congregation at the time of his settle 
 ment was the smallest in town. He left it one of the 
 largest and most respectable. As a popular preacher he 
 had no superior in New England. Among his admirers 
 were the elder President Adams, General Knox, and Gov- 
 12 
 
M A X X I X G A X D CHAP. III. 
 
 ernor Hancock; the hitter of whom was for a season a 
 member of his congregation. No clergyman of the day 
 was so much sought after by distinguished strangers who 
 visited the metropolis. His services were often required 
 on public occasions, and he rarely if ever failed to meet 
 the highest expectations. "In his person," says the Rev. 
 Dr. Jenks, "he was slender, and very small in size (weigh 
 ing less than one hundred pounds) ; agile in movement and 
 erect in bearing ; in address polite, combining dignity with 
 condescending kindness, so as to maintain rank with the 
 most eminent, though affable with the meanest. He was 
 scrupulously neat in his dress, wearing, as in his painted 
 and engraved portrait, a wig such as was in his day com 
 mon, with a gown and bands." A volume of his sermons 
 was published irr 1808, with a portrait, and a biographical 
 sketch of the author. In Sprague s Annals of the Ameri 
 can Pulpit, Vol. VI., may be found a highly interesting 
 sketch of Dr. Stillman, accompanied with letters or remi 
 niscences from James Loring, Esq., and the Rev. Dr. Wm. 
 Jenks ; also a fine engraved likeness. 
 
 A view of the meeting-house in which Dr. Stillman 
 preached may be found in Drake s History and Antiqui 
 ties of Boston. It was built in 1771, and dedicated on the 
 22d of December of that year. Its dimensions were fifty- 
 seven feet long by fifty-three feet wide. In 1791 the house 
 was enlarged, this step having been rendered necessary by 
 the great increase of the society. Its site having become 
 valuable for stores and inconvenient for public worship, 
 the place was sold in 1853, and the old building turned into 
 shops for mart and trade. The proceeds of the sale have 
 enabled the society to rear the most conspicuous spire in 
 the city, upon the east point of Beacon Hill, overlooking 
 the State House even, and commanding a view of the city 
 
17G9-1770. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 135 
 
 and surrounding country, not surpassed, if equalled, by 
 any other. "To such an eminence," says Drake, "has that 
 church attained, whose foundation was obliged to be clan 
 destinely laid by its original founders. The present grand 
 and lofty steeple will, it is hoped, long stand, not only an 
 ornament to the city, but as a beacon for the intolerant." 
 The following is a list of the ministers of this church as re 
 corded by Winchell and others : Thomas Gould, 1GG5-75; 
 John Russell, 1675-80; John Miles, 1083; John Emblen, 
 1GS4-9D ; Ellis Cullender, 1708-18 ; Elisha Callcnder, 
 1718-38; Jeremiah Condy, 1739-G4; Samuel Stillman, 
 1765-1807; Joseph Clay, 1807-9; James M. Winchell, 
 1813-20 ; Francis Wayland, 1821-26 ; Cyrus P. Gros- 
 venor, 1827-30 ; William Plague, 1831-37 ; Rollin H. Neale, 
 1837 . 
 
 HEZEKIAH SMITH. 
 
 The Rev. Dr. Hezekiah Smith, whose relations with 
 Manning from early manhood down to the close of life 
 were those of the closest intimacy, was born on Long Isl 
 and, New York, on the 21st of April, 1758. In his youth 
 he became pious, and at the age of nineteen joined the 
 Baptist church in New York City then under the pastoral 
 care of the Rev. John Gano. He commenced his classical 
 education at Hopewell, entered the College of New Jer 
 sey at Princeton, and graduated in the year 1762, in the 
 same class with President Manning. After leaving college 
 he travelled through the Southern provinces, in order to 
 recover his health, which had become somewhat impaired 
 by too close confinement to his studies. In a single year 
 he made a tour of four thousand miles, and laid the foun 
 dations of lasting friendship with the Rev. Messrs. Hart, 
 
130 M A N N I N G A N D CHAP. III. 
 
 Pelot, and others of a kindred spirit, whose intercourse 
 and correspondence proved a delight to him in his riper 
 years. At Charleston, S. C., he was ordained by sev 
 eral ministers of the Charleston Association. The Baptist 
 church in Haverhill, Mass., gathered through Mr. Smith s 
 instrumentality, was organized on the 9th of May, 1765, 
 and he was chosen the pastor. He was duly installed on 
 the 12th of Nov., 17GG. The ministers who officiated 
 upon this occasion were President Manning, Dr. Stillman, 
 and the Rev. John Gano. The relations which Dr. Smith 
 thus assumed he sustained during a period of forty years. 
 Under his ministry the church soon acquired great influ 
 ence in the town, and indeed throughout all the surround 
 ing country. 
 
 On Thursday, June 27, 1771, Dr. Smith, as we find it 
 stated in his diary, w r as married to Miss Hephzibah Kim- 
 ball, of Boxford, Mass. This most estimable woman 
 was a stranger to religion at the time of their mar 
 riage. Her husband s letters to her during his service in 
 the army express the most affectionate yearnings for her 
 spiritual welfare. She survived him many years, dying 
 Dec. 9th, 1824. They had four children, namely, three sons 
 and a daughter. 
 
 In the year 1775, our struggle with the mother country 
 commenced. The Baptists had always been the friends of 
 civil and religious freedom, and at this critical period they 
 were ready to pledge their fortunes and lives in the defence 
 of their country. Their chaplains, as Washington him 
 self testifies, were among the most prominent and useful 
 in the army. True to his patriotic principles, Dr. Smith, 
 notwithstanding the tender ties binding him to his people 
 and home, left llaverhill immediately upon the breaking 
 out of hostilities, and joined the American army. Here, 
 
1769-1770. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 137 
 
 as chaplain, he continued five years. He became, says his 
 biographer, the intimate friend of Washington, and pos 
 sessed the confidence and esteem of the officers and men 
 of the whole army. Repeatedly he exposed his life in bat 
 tle ; and he was always among the foremost in encouraging 
 the soldiers, and in soothing the sorrows of the wounded 
 and the dying. On all occasions he reproved vice, with a 
 boldness of tone and manner which, contrasting with his 
 gentleness in the approval of virtue, awed the most hard 
 ened into respect and fear. 
 
 After the clouds of war had been dispersed, Dr. Smith 
 returned joyfully to his family and his parish, and to the 
 sacred duties to which he had consecrated his life. In his 
 work at home and in his missionary tours abroad his time 
 was fully occupied, and the even tenor of life flowed on. 
 He died Jan. 22, 1805, in the sixty-eighth year of his age. 
 An impressive discourse was preached at his funeral, by the 
 Rev. Dr. Stillman, from Acts xiii. 36, which discourse was 
 afterwards published. His ashes repose in the village 
 graveyard at Ilaverhill, surrounded by the remains of his 
 family and friends. 
 
 Dr. Smith was a man of commanding presence, large 
 and well proportioned, inspiring respect by his dignity, and 
 winning affection by his affability and grace. His voice 
 was one of unusual compass and power, and his genuine 
 eloquence opened a way for his message. His views of 
 truth were strictly evangelical, and his ministry combined, 
 in due proportions, the doctrinal, the practical, and the ex 
 perimental. He never wrote his sermons, but uniformly 
 went into his study on Thursday morning, and devoted 
 the residue of the week to careful preparation for the du 
 ties of the Sabbath. As an illustration of his pastoral and 
 missionary labors, it is stated in the journal to which we 
 12* 
 
138 MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 have already referred, that, from the time when lie entered 
 the ministry to Aug. 1, 1773, he baptized two hundred and 
 ninety-four persons. 
 
 The following amusing instance of persecution which 
 occurred to him is mentioned by his biographer, Dr. S. F. 
 Smith, as an illustration of the times in which he lived. 
 The constable of a neighboring town, where Mr. Smith 
 had gone to preach, a weak and inferior-looking person, 
 was moved to go, clothed in the mnjcsty of the law, and 
 " warn him out of the place." The little officer, on com 
 ing into the presence of one of such commanding person, 
 and bearing all the airs of a consummate gentleman, on 
 such an errand was very naturally much confused, and, 
 on opening his mouth to deliver his message, said, "I 
 warn you off of God s earth." " My good sir," said the 
 preacher, " where shall I go ? " " Go anywhere," was the 
 reply; "go to the Isle of Shoals." It may be presumed, 
 says the narrator, that the expounder of law was scarcely 
 aware of the indignity done to the inhabitants of those 
 seagirt rocks in placing their geographical position so far 
 out of the ordinary track of navigators. 
 
 Dr. Smith was one of the first Fellows of the college, 
 retaining this position until his death, a period of nearly 
 forty years. How zealously he labored, with Manning, to 
 promote the welfare of the institution, these pages through 
 out abundantly show. He was conscientiously faithful in 
 attending the annual Commencements, frequently preach 
 ing the sermon customary upon those occasions, and, on 
 the ensuing Sabbath, occupying the pulpit of the Baptist 
 church. His visits to Providence were hailed with pleas 
 ure, especially by his friend Mr. Nicholas Brown, whose 
 hospitalities he shared, and at whose house he was a wel 
 come and frequent guest. The last meeting of the cor- 
 
1 760-1770. B R W N TT N I V K R S I T Y. 
 
 139 
 
 poration which he ever attended was in September, 1804, 
 only four months before his death. 1 
 
 Among the papers and correspondence of Mr. Smith 
 are numerous letters written by him to his wife during his 
 service in the army. From these we present a few extracts, 
 as an illustration of the spirit and patriotism of the man, 
 and as a valuable contribution to the history of the war. 
 
 CAMP WINTER HILL, July 31, 1775. 
 
 MY DEAR AND LOVING WlFE : 
 
 Last night and this morning we had several skirmishes with the regu 
 lars. Near the common, before you come to Charlestown Neck, was one, 
 in which our people killed one regular, and got four or five of their guns, 
 without losing a man. The second was at Koxbury Neck, in which 
 we lost none, although we took three of the regulars, besides those that 
 were wounded. The third was at the Lighthouse, which the regulars 
 and Tories were rebuilding, in which we lost one or two men, and had a 
 small number wounded. Our forces killed their captain of the guard, 
 and took about twenty-five regulars and eleven Tories prisoners, besides 
 the wounded. The pilot who pilots vessels in and out of Boston harbor 
 was one of them. Thirty-six men were brought into Cambridge just be 
 fore sunset, as I am informed. The Tories hang their heads. 
 
 CAMP WINTER HILL, March 11, 1776. 
 
 Since my last, the movements of the ministerial army give us reason to 
 think they are about leaving Boston ; but in what direction they will go 
 from thence is uncertain. We expect they will aim for the Southern col 
 onies. If so, our army will soon move, and be ready to attack them where 
 they land. The general order of to-day is, for all the army to get ready 
 for a speedy remove. The field officers of the regiments I serve, as well 
 as others, insist upon my going with them ; and, I must confess, the pros 
 pect of usefulness in the glorious cause of our country, joined with that of 
 usefulness to souls, inclines me to yield to their request. And since my 
 people as a body have not manifested their disapprobation of my being in 
 the army, during the present campaign, I think they cannot justly blame 
 me in struggling with others for the salvation of America, especially the 
 
 i Sprague s Annals of the American Pulpit. 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 United Colonies in America. Your zeal for the cause, united with con 
 sideration, will, I doubt not, cause you to yield to the disagreeable parting 
 for a few months. 
 
 CAMP WINTER HILL, March 20, 1776. 
 
 This day I was in Boston, where I saw a number of houses destroyed 
 by the regulars ; but the damage in that town is not so great as I expected ; 
 and what they left amounts to a large sum, which is a proof that they left 
 the town in great fear, and with much precipitation. We have no partic 
 ular orders about marching to the southward yet, but I am confident we 
 shall be obliged to go before long. If so, you will not expect to sec me 
 at Havcrhill very soon, as my horse is low in flesh, and not so well fitted 
 for a long journey as I could wish. You may well judge that so long an 
 absence from home is equally disagreeable to me ns to you ; but as duty 
 in the course of Providence requires it, we ought to be reconciled to it, 
 and bear up under it with a becoming fortitude. Let us place our confi 
 dence in God, and take delight in him the Supreme Good. Then shall 
 we be happy, and the time will not seem so tedious to us during my ab- 
 
 scncc I a> sorry my good Deacon Shepherd discovered such a 
 
 temper at my yielding to what I think is my duty. It will be the best for 
 you not to say much about it ; and if you hear reflections cast upon me, 
 not to resent them, but to let them pass. The least said is the best. 
 
 CAMP NEW YORK, June 8, 1776. 
 
 We have expected something would be done before now by the minis 
 terial troops in this city ; but their exported army has not, I believe, yet 
 arrived. Only a few vessels lay down at the Hook at present. Our men 
 in general arc healthy, and are daily at work in preparing for the enemy. 
 If the enemy should take New York, I am persuaded they will find great 
 difficulty, and sustain great loss in the acquisition. We received in this 
 city the good news of our privateers . ucccss in taking throe large vessels, 
 whose valuable cargoes we have sent to New England. I hope they will 
 arrive safe. The Congress has greatly increased the American army, so 
 that, with the blessing of God, I hope the ministerial army will be disap 
 pointed the present campaign. I long to sec vital piety abound, and true 
 godliness prevail ; then would I pronounce America blessed, arid her 
 sons and daughters free. 
 
1709-1770. IHIOWX UNIVERSITY. 141 
 
 CAMP NEW YORK, June 27, 1776. 
 
 In my last I informed you that there had been a plot formed in this 
 city to destroy our generals and blow up the magazine, but that it had 
 been providentially discovered. The Mayor of this city, amongst many 
 others, is in confinement. I hope they will meet with their just reward. 
 They arc now under examination daily. The British fleet has not yet 
 arrived. Our army is strong, and great preparations are making in this 
 
 place for the enemy Things are very dear here. I gave ten coppers 
 
 yesterday for about one pint of strawberries. One may readily spend the 
 most of his wages in this place. Some do spend the whole of their wages, 
 I suppose, if not more. However, if we can but live and get the victory, it 
 will be a favor ; when we die, we shall not want any of this world. 
 
 CAMP STILL WATER, Aug. 5, 1777. 
 
 We came to this place last Lord s Day evening ; but how long we shall 
 tarry here I cannot say. Our State of Massachusetts Bay is shamefully 
 deficient in the number of Continental troops. We have not one half our 
 number here yet, and what will be the consequence I cannot say. Hope 
 kind Providence will excite our people to a more vigorous exertion than 
 heretofore, and that a, glorious event in favor of America will yet take 
 place this present campaign. I am yet sanguine in my expectations, and 
 trust the American armv will be victorious. 
 
 CAMP SXILLAVATER, Sept. 13, 1777. 
 
 We arc now on our march up the river to meet Mr. Burgoyne with his 
 boasted strength. Expect soon to engage him, unless lie should retreat. 
 Our army is in good spirits. We have a good commander, Gen. Gates, and 
 a large body of troops ; so that I don t doubt of success, unless we should 
 put our trust in the arm of flesh, which is forever attended with a curse. 
 With the blessing of Heaven, I expect our army will soon do something 
 grand for the salvation of our country. 
 
 CAMP STILLWATER, Oct. 3, 1777. 
 
 Since the battle mentioned in a former letter, we have either taken 
 prisoners, or had deserters come in from the enemy almost every day. I 
 have expected a general engagement before now, but when it will take 
 place I know not. From the best information we understand that the 
 enemy s provisions grow short. 
 
142 MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 CAMP ALBANY, Oct. 22, 1777. 
 
 Although I sent you a letter since our total conquest of Gen. Burgoyne s 
 army, in which I enclosed the articles of capitulation ; yet I am loth to 
 miss this opportunity by Mr. Chadwick to let you know that I am in a 
 good state of health, ready to serve my country in the reduction of our 
 enemies to the southward, if Gen. Washington should stand in need. 
 We have no very late intelligence from him ; but the last we had was fa 
 vorable, and we daily expect to hear of a general battle. Hope the Lord 
 will give success to our arms. The following is a list of the taken, killed, 
 etc., of Gen. Burgoyne s army : 
 
 British troops by capitulation, 2442 
 
 Foreigners, 2198 
 
 Prisoners sent to Canada", 1100 
 
 Staff, 12 
 
 Sick and wounded, 528 
 
 Prisoners of war, 300 
 
 Deserters, 400 
 
 Took at Bennington, 1220 
 
 Killed between Sept. 18th and Oct. 8th, ....... 600 
 
 Taken at Ticonderoga, 413 
 
 Total, 9213 
 
 The number of killed and taken at Fort Stanwick I cannot ascertain. 
 Gen. Burgoyne and three other officers taken were members of the British 
 Parliament. 
 
 CAMP CONTINENTAL VILLAGE, July 14, 1780. 
 
 There are great preparations making to do something capital this cam 
 paign, and it is my opinion that a vigorous exertion will be made for New 
 York, in which enterprise I expect many will lose their lives. Oh that 
 they may be prepared by grace for such an event ! I have reason to 
 think that my poor endeavors have been blessed to the awakening of sev 
 eral persons in Peekskill since my arrival. Oh that conviction might 
 terminate in conversion ! Next Lord s Day I expect to preach to my 
 brigade for the first time since I joined them this season ; for I found the 
 brigade so scattered, and taken up with guards, etc., that the brigade 
 major said that he could not turn any out for public exercise, nor even 
 furnish men to relieve the guards. But now the recruits have joined us 
 we arc able to have religious worship in camp again ; and I pray that my 
 prenrhing inny be attended \viih power. 
 
1769-1770. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 143 
 
 The present seems a fitting place to make special men 
 tion of the BROWNS, whose names so frequently occur 
 throughout these pages. They were Manning s intimate 
 friends. To their vigorous and united efforts the college 
 is largely indebted for its early prosperity arid growth, if 
 not for its very existence. Their ancestors were among 
 the founders and prominent members both of the colony 
 and of the Baptist church. Their descendants, in pious 
 emulation of their fathers, have nobly contributed of their 
 abundant wealth to the present resources of the institution, 
 its spacious grounds, its buildings, its library and ap 
 paratus, and its endowments and funds, and Brown Uni 
 versity will transmit, to the latest posterity the many vir 
 tues and generous deeds of the family whose honored name 
 it bears. 
 
 I. CHAD BROWN. 
 
 Concerning the remote ancestry of the Brown family in 
 Rhode Island, but little is now known. That they are the 
 descendants of some one of the hundred and fifty-five fam 
 ilies bearing that name in England, Ireland, and Scotland, 
 whose escutcheons, or armorial bearings, are described in 
 Burke s Encyclopaedia of Heraldry, is at least probable. 
 The Rev. Chad Brown (or Browne, as the name was at 
 first written) came over from England, according to Savage, 
 in his recent edition of Winthrop s History of New Eng 
 land, in the ship Martin, during the month of July, 1638. 1 
 
 " Two ships," says Winthrop, " which came over this year (1638), much pes 
 tered, lost many passengers and some principal men." In a note upon this pas 
 sage, Savage, after speaking of the Nicholas of London as one of the pestered 
 ships, remarks as follows: " Another of the pestered ships prohably was the 
 Martin, coming nearly at the same time with the Nicholas. I know, at least, 
 that the nuncupative will of Sylvester Baldwin, one of her passengers, who died 
 on the ocean, was proved July 13th, of this year, by Chad Brown, and other fel- 
 
144 MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 Winthrop states that " there came over this summer 
 twenty ships, and at least three thousand persons, so as 
 they were forced to look out new plantations." It was 
 during this period, also, that many of the inhabitants of 
 Boston, " and others who were of Mrs. Hutchinson s judg 
 ment and party, removed to the Isle of Aquiday (Rhode 
 Island) ; and others who were of the rigid separation, and 
 savored anabaptism, removed to Providence, so as those 
 parts began to be well peopled." In this latter class, thus 
 described by Winthrop, may be included Chad Brown ; 
 who, with his wife Elizabeth and his little family, at once 
 sought a permanent home in the land which had afforded 
 a friendly shelter to Roger Williams and his companions. 
 The precise date of his arrival at Providence cannot now 
 be ascertained, as the early records of the town were 
 loosely kept, and many of them were afterwards destroyed 
 during the so-called King Philip s War. From the doc 
 uments that have come down to us, it is evident that he 
 soon exercised an important influence, as a leading man 
 in the colony. The first written or civil compact of which 
 
 low-passengers, before Deputy Governor Dudley. His wife and children are 
 named." It has been asserted that Chad Brown was " one of that little company 
 who fled with Roger Williams from the persecution of the then Colony of Massa 
 chusetts." The epitaph on his tombstone, erected by the town of Providence, 
 three quarters of a century ago, states that he was " exiled from Massachusetts 
 for conscience sake." Prof. Gammell, in his Memoir of Nicholas Brown, says 
 that he arrived at Providence in the year 1636, a few months after the arrival of 
 Roger Williams. Dr. Hague, in his historical discourse delivered at the second 
 centennial anniversary of the First Baptist Church, makes a similar assertion. 
 Among the papers of the late Moses Brown, we find it stated that he came from 
 Salem, Mass., in the year 1637. Edwards, Backus, and Benedict are equally 
 confused in their brief notices respecting the early history of the great ancestor 
 of the family from which the college derives its name. Mr. Savage, in his re 
 marks as above quoted, proves conclusively that Chad Brown came to Provi 
 dence in 1638, more than two years after the arrival of Roger Williams and his 
 five companions. For a further illustration of this point, see Savage s Genea 
 logical Dictionary of New England, Vol. I. p. 265. 
 
1769-1770. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 145 
 
 we have any knowledge has his signature, with that of 
 twelve others. A full account of this compact, which was 
 probably entered into soon after Mr. Brown s arrival, may 
 be found in Staples s Annals of Providence. 
 
 On the 8th of October, 1638, Roger Williams executed 
 a deed, known as the " initial deed," granting to twelve 
 of his companions an equal share with himself of the lands 
 which he had purchased from the Indians. Tnese, there 
 fore, including the grantor, constituted the original thirteen 
 proprietors of Providence. Soon after the execution of 
 this deed, the proprietors divided the lands thus obtained 
 into two parts, one called "the grand purchase of Prov 
 idence," the other "the Pawtuxet purchase." Great dis 
 sensions and difficulties grew out of this division, in al 
 lusion to which Roger Williams, in his plea before the 
 Court of the New England Colonies, in Providence, in the 
 year 1677, gives the following brief but comprehensive 
 view of Mr. Brown s character and personal influence : 
 " The truth is, Chad Browne, that wise and godly soul 
 (now with God), with myself, brought the remaining 
 aftercomers and the first twelve to a oneness by arbitra 
 tion." In the first of the aforementioned divisions, " the 
 grand purchase," are recorded in a small book, among the 
 files of the city clerk s office, the names of fifty-four per 
 sons as the owners of " home-lots," as they were called, 
 extending from the " town street " (now North and South 
 Main Streets) eastward to Hope Street. Among the 
 names thus recorded is that of Chad Brown. In addition 
 to these lots, each person had a six-acre lot assigned to 
 him in other parts of the purchase ; some on the banks of 
 the Seekonk, where Roger Williams s out-lot was located, 
 and some on the Wanasquatucket river. We are thus 
 particular in these details, because the college, as we have 
 13 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. IIL 
 
 already seen, was located upon a portion of the home-lot 
 of Chad Brown. 
 
 In 1640 Mr. Brown was appointed a committee, with 
 Robert Cole, William Harris, and John Warner, to draw 
 up a plan of agreement for the peace and government of 
 the town ; the growth of the colony having rendered the 
 purely democratic government, adopted at the first, im 
 practicable. To this plan, consisting of twelve articles of 
 agreement, his name is the first signed, followed by the 
 signatures of thirty-eight others. It went into immediate 
 operation, and for several years constituted the only ac 
 knowledged government of the town. In 1643 he was 
 employed, with three others, in making peace between the 
 people of Warwick and the Massachusetts Government. 
 The whole of this affair, which forms a painful chapter in 
 our early New England annals, is told at length by the prin 
 cipal actor, Samuel Gorton, in his " Simplicity s Defence," 
 which, with Staples s notes, may be found in the second 
 volume of the publications of the Rhode Island Historical 
 Society. In addition to his various public duties, he was 
 also a surveyor of land, and thus rendered important servi 
 ces to the town. In 1660, as appears by the records, he 
 was appointed, with John Throckmorton and Gregory 
 Dexter, to compile a list of the first town lots, from Mile- 
 end Cove, north of Fox Point, to Olney s Lane, and note 
 the several divisions and grants of land made previous to 
 that date. This list or record, much worn and defaced, is 
 now on file at the clerk s office. 
 
 But it is as a minister of religion, as the " first elder " 
 of the oldest Baptist church in America, that Chad Brown 
 claims our especial attention. It is true that the distin 
 guished honor of founding this church belongs to Roger 
 Williams ; who, having been baptized by Ezekiel Holliman, 
 
1709-1770. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 147 
 
 a man of gifts and piety," baptized the administrator and 
 ten others, in the month of March, 1639. But in a few 
 months, says Scott, 1 a contemporary with Williams, and one 
 of the thirteen original proprietors of the soil, " he broke 
 from the society, and declared at large the grounds and 
 reason of it, that their baptism could not be right, because 
 it was not administered by an apostle." He became what, 
 in the history of New England, is denominated a Seeker ; 
 a term, says Prof. Gammell, not inaptly applied to those 
 who, in any age of the church, become dissatisfied with 
 its prevailing creeds and institutions, and seek for more 
 congenial views of truth, or a faith better adapted to their 
 spiritual wants. Those writers who desire to place Roger 
 Williams at the head of the Baptist ministers of America, 
 do not sufficiently regard the facts as recorded in history. 
 He indeed was instrumental in planting and establishing 
 the Baptist denomination in this country; but his true 
 glory and greatness consist, not in his vocation as a Baptist 
 preacher, but in his wisdom and benevolence as a legis 
 lator, in founding, says a distinguished German statesman 
 arid scholar, 2 "in 1636, a small new society in Rhode Isl 
 and, upon the principles of entire liberty of conscience, 
 and the uncontrolled power of the majority in secular 
 concerns," principles, the same author continues, which 
 have not only maintained themselves here, but have 
 spread over the whole Union, superseding the aristocratic 
 commencements of Carolina and of New York, the High- 
 
 1 Richard Scott. See his letter respecting Koger Williams in Fox s " New 
 England Fire Brand Quenched," Part II., p. 247. He came to Providence in 
 1638. He was at first a Baptist, but afterwards became a Quaker. One of his 
 descendants was married to Judge Jenckes, and thus became the grandmother 
 of the late Hon. Nicholas Brown. 
 
 2 Professor Gervinus. See his recent "Introduction to the History of the 
 Nineteenth Century." 
 
148 MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 Church party in Virginia, the theocracy in Massachusetts, 
 and the monarchy throughout America; which have given 
 laws to one quarter of t!ie globe, and which stand in the 
 background of every democratic struggle in Europe. 
 
 In the year 1642, Mr. Williams was appointed by the 
 colonists to visit England for the purpose of procuring a 
 charter ; when Mr. Brown, having been formally ordained, 
 assumed the pastoral office. Associated with him wese 
 the Rev. Messrs. Thomas Olney, William Wickenden, and 
 Gregory Dexter. The terms of their ministry, and the 
 nature of their relations to Mr. Brown, are not definitely 
 known. It is certain that for more than half a century 
 they had no meeting-house, the church being accustomed 
 to assemble in a grove or orchard for public worship, and, 
 when the weather would not permit this, in private houses. 
 In those primitive times the ministers, or elders as they 
 were more commonly called, doubtless exercised their gifts 
 after the manner of laymen in our modern conference 
 meetings. This they called prophesying. Mr. Wickenden, 
 who, during the latter part of his life, resided at a place 
 out of town which he called Solitary Hill, is said to have 
 been ordained by Mr. Brown. Mr. Dexter was formerly 
 a printer in London, in company with one Coleman. He 
 came to Providence in the year 1G43, and was at once re 
 ceived into the church, having been before his arrival both 
 a Baptist and a preacher. He was not, however, according 
 to Edwards, chosen to be their minister, until Mr. Wick- 
 enden s removal to his new residence rendered this step 
 in a measure necessary. Mr. Olncy, according to Savage, 
 came from Salem, Mass., from which place he was banished 
 in the year 1G38. He was one of the original members of 
 the church, having been baptized by Roger Williams at 
 the time when it was constituted. 
 
1760-1770. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 149 
 
 During Mr. Brown s ministry there appears to have 
 originated a controversy, which was long agitated in the 
 town, and throughout the colony. It had reference to the 
 " laying on of hands " mentioned in Hebrews vi. 1, 2, 
 a doctrine which prevailed in the Baptist churches for 
 more than a century. The principal leaders in this con 
 troversy were Wickenden and Olney, both of whom fa 
 vored giving up the doctrine altogether. Indeed, the latter, 
 not succeeding in carrying his point, withdrew, with a few 
 others, from the fellowship of the church, and formed a 
 new one called the " Five-principle Baptist." This last, 
 says Callender, continued till about the year 1718, when, 
 becoming destitute of an elder, the members were united 
 with other churches. It is more than probable that Wick- 
 enden s removal from town was owing, in part, to the un 
 pleasant relations growing out of this controversy. 
 
 Unmoved by the arguments of " Seekers " or " Sepa 
 ratists," Mr. Brown maintained his standing firmly in a 
 church which he believed to be founded on the rock of 
 eternal truth, even "the word of God, which abideth for 
 ever." The duties of his high calling he continued to dis 
 charge, with greater or less regularity, until his decease, 
 which occurred about the year 1GG5. His death was 
 regarded by the colonists as a public calamity ; for he had 
 been the successful arbitrator of many differences, and had 
 won the not unenviable reputation of being a " peace 
 maker." His other services, too, for the public good, had 
 been numerous, and scattered over more than a quarter 
 of a century. His remains were interred in a part of his 
 original " home-lot," lying on College Street, just west of 
 the old town house, whence, in 1792, they were removed 
 to the family lot in the North Burying-ground. A plain, 
 13* 
 
150 MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 simple stone, erected by the town of Providence to his 
 memory, indicates his final resting-place. 
 
 Mr. Brown left five sons ; namely, John, who married a 
 Holmes; Judah, alias Chad, who died childless; James, 
 who removed to Newport, about the year 1672 ; Jeremiah, 
 who also settled in Newport ; and Daniel, who married a 
 Herenden. 
 
 " We may easily suppose/ says Prof. Knowles, " that as Mr. Wil- 
 liams s connection with the church was very short, Mr. Brown was con 
 sidered as the first pastor, even by his contemporaries, and that this 
 impression was transmitted to their descendants. It was not unnatural, 
 moreover, for the church to be willing to recognize Mr. Brown as the 
 first pastor, rather than a man who soon left them, and who refused to 
 acknowledge them, or any other body of men, to be a true church. It is 
 possible that other causes had some influence in the case. It is certain, 
 however, that Mr. Brown has been generally believed to have been the 
 first pastor of the church. He was, unquestionably, the first regular and 
 permanent pastor, and may be regarded as one of the chief founders. It 
 is not probable that he contended for the honor while he lived ; and we 
 may be sure that there was no strife on this point between him and 
 Roger Williams, who speaks of him in one of his letters as that noble 
 spirit now with God/ and, on another occasion, as that holy man. " 
 
 In a letter to Prof. Knowles, by the late John Howland, 
 Esq., the author says : 
 
 " The college was built in 1770. On the question among the founders 
 of it, on what lot to place the building, they decided on the present site of 
 the old college, because it was the home-lot of Chad Brown, the first min 
 ister of the Baptist church. Other land could have been obtained, but the 
 reason given prevailed in fixing the site. Had the impression been prev 
 alent that Roger Williams was the first minister or principal founder of 
 the society, his home-lot could have been purchased, which was a situation 
 fully as eligible for the purpose. If any doubts rested in the minds of the 
 gentlemen at that time as to the validity of the claim of Chad Brown to 
 this preference, perhaps the circumstance of Mr. Williams deserting the 
 order, and protesting against it, might have produced the determination 
 in favor of Brown." 
 
1769-1770. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 151 
 
 II. JOHN BROWN. 
 
 John, the eldest son of Chad, was born in England, in 
 the year 1G30, being eight years of age at the time of his 
 arrival in Boston. His mother s name was Elizabeth ; but 
 her maiden name we have not been able to ascertain. He 
 married Mary, daughter of the Rev. Obadiah Holmes, of 
 Newport. Mr. Holmes was the successor of the Rev. John 
 Clark, M. D., the distinguished founder of Newport Col 
 ony. He was a native of England, and was educated, says 
 Ross, at Oxford University. Formerly he was settled in 
 Rehoboth, Mass. He is noted in history as the first martyr 
 to Baptist principles in New England, having been appre 
 hended in Massachusetts, in company with John Clark, and 
 cruelly whipped " for conscience sake." Concerning Mr. 
 Brown s life, but few memorials have come down to us. 
 He appears to have been a man of influence in the colony, 
 and to have inherited in a measure the character and spirit 
 of his father. We first find his name on record in a docu 
 ment dated Jan. 19, 1646, which reads as follows : 
 
 " We, whose names are hereafter subscribed, having obtained a free 
 grant of twenty-five acres of land, apiece, with the right of commoning 
 accordino- to the said proportion of lands, from the free inhabitants of this 
 town of Providence, do thankfully accept of the same ; and do hereby 
 promise to yield active or passive obedience to the authority of (King and 
 Parliament) established in this colony, according to our charter, and to all 
 such wholesome laws and orders, that are or shall be made by the major 
 consent of the town of Providence, as also, not to claim any right to the 
 purchase of the said plantations, nor any privilege of vote in town affairs, 
 until we shall be received as freemen of the said town of Providence." 
 
 This document has the signature of John Brown, fol 
 lowed by twenty-seven other signatures, including that 
 of his brother Daniel. A few years after this transaction, 
 
152 MANNING AND 
 
 CHAP. III. 
 
 commenced the most trying period in the early history of 
 Rhode Island. In consequence of the ambition of Gov. 
 Coddington, the local jealousies of the towns, and there- 
 fractory disposition of individuals, a spirit of disunion and 
 misrule sprang up, which continued several years, and had 
 well-nigh proved fatal to the peace of the colony. A happy 
 settlement of all difficulties was at length effected by a full 
 court of commissioners, six from each town, which assem 
 bled at Warwick on the 31st of August, 1654. One of the 
 commissioners from Providence was John Brown, who 
 was then twenty-four years of age. In the year 1662 he 
 was appointed, with Roger Williams and Thomas Harris, 
 Jr., to make up the town council. Mr. Backus, in his 
 Church History, further adds that he was a minister in the 
 church. These records, scanty as they are, give all the 
 information that can be obtained respecting his character 
 and life. At what time he died is not known. In the 
 year 1667, we find his name as a witness to the signa 
 ture of Roger Williams to the " initial deed," so called, 
 which Williams originally granted on the 8th of October, 
 1638. He left five children ; namely, John, born March 18, 
 1662 ; James, Obadiah, Martha, and Deborah. Martha was 
 married to Gov. Joseph Jcnckcs, " of happy memory," who 
 was therefore the brother-in-law of Elder James Brown, 
 and not a son-in-law, as erroneously stated by Dr. Benedict 
 in his History of the Baptists. 
 
 III. JAMES BROWN. 
 
 James, the second son of John, was born in Providence, 
 in the year 1666. He married Mary, daughter of Andrew, 
 and grand-daughter of William Harris, one of the first five 
 who came to Providence in June, 1636, in company with 
 Roger Williams. Of him but little is known, save as 
 
1769-1770. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 153 
 
 pastor or elder of the Baptist church. He was a colleague 
 of the Eev. Pardon Tillinghast, and his successor in the 
 pastoral office ; but the time of his ordination does not ap 
 pear on record. Associated with him in this work was the 
 Rev. Ebenezer Jenckes, who was ordained in 1719, soon 
 after Mr. Tillinghast s death. During Mr. Brown s minis 
 try, an event occurred which exhibits his character in a 
 pleasing light. It was in relation to the doctrine of the 
 imposition of hands, about which, in former years, there 
 had been so much controversy, and which, during the min 
 istry of his grandfather, Chad Brown, had divided and 
 nearly rent asunder the church. It seems that a revival 
 of religion was in progress at Newport, and Mr. Walton, 
 a young minister of liberal education, had been invited to 
 preach in Providence, with the hope of promoting one 
 here also. He accepted the invitation, at the same time 
 freely expressing his willingness to practise the laying on 
 of hands, but not as a divine ordinance, necessary to church 
 fellowship. Mr. Windsor, then a deacon of the church, 
 was the leader of a party that urged the imposition of 
 hands as a term or prerequisite of church communion. 
 Gov. Jenckes, who was the leading member of the church, 
 was then residing at Newport. He wrote to his pastor, 
 Mr. Brown, on the subject, confirming Mr. Walton s view, 
 that laying on of hands "should be no bar to communion 
 with those who have been rightly baptized ; " and saying 
 that he had been informed by ancient members of the 
 church that such had been the opinion of Baptists through 
 out the colony from the earliest times. This interesting 
 letter of Gov. Jenckes, which is dated March 19, 1730, is 
 published in the second volume of Backus s Church History 
 of New England. Mr. Brown perfectly accorded with 
 these views; for although himself a "Six-principle Bap- 
 
M A X X I X G A X D CHAP. HI. 
 
 list," holding and allowing with many of his brethren 
 "the six principles in Heb. vi. 1, 2, to be the doctrine of 
 Christ and the bounds of church communion," he never 
 theless strongly remonstrated with Mr. Windsor and his 
 friends against this rigid innovation. So far as the case 
 admitted, he thus evinced a liberal and catholic spirit, 
 eminently befitting a Christian teacher. The result was 
 the following agreement, or compromise, which we here 
 present, as an illustration of Mr. Brown s views and of the 
 spirit of the times : 
 
 May 25th, 1732. Whereas there was a meeting appointed by some 
 of the Baptist church of Providence, this present day, at Elder James 
 Brown s, the few of us that have met together to reconcile this woful 
 breach or division that has happened of late about the bounds of our 
 communion, we think it needful to bear each others burdens, and so fulfil 
 the law of Christ. The difference between us is this, that some of us have 
 borne with larger communion than others. "We shall endeavor, by the 
 help of God, not to offend our brethren in this thing, nor any thing 
 whereby it shall offend their consciences, but shall endeavor to be a build 
 ing up of peace and tranquillity within the spiritual walls of Jerusalem. 
 We. do all further agree, that there be no contradictions, but that we may 
 all speak the same things ; for as we all agree and allow the six principles 
 in Ileb. vi. 1 , 2, to be the doctrine of Christ, and to be the bonds of our 
 communion, so we ought to be of one body, and not tearing one another 
 to pieces. We further agree, that if any brother or sister shall join in 
 prayer without the bounds of the church, they are liable to be dealt witli 
 by the church for their offending their brethren. 
 
 SAMUEL FISK, EDWARD WANTON, 
 
 JOSHUA WINDSOR, JAMES BROWN, 
 
 ELDER PLACE, SAMUEL WINDSOR, 
 
 THOMAS BURLINGAME, JR., THOMAS OLNEY, 
 
 .TAMES KING, JAMES BROWN, JR., 
 
 JOHN DEXTER, JOSEPH SHELDON, 
 
 JOHN DEXTER, JR., EBENEZER JENCKES, 
 
 JONATHAN JENCKES, ELISHA GREENE, 
 
 NICHOLAS SHELDON, DANIEL SHELDON, 
 
 BENJAMIN CARPENTER, JOSEPH- WILLIAMS, JR., 
 
 EDWARD FENNER, DANIEL SWEET, 
 
 EDWARD MITCHEL, DANIEL FISK. 
 
1709-1770. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 155 
 
 Mr. Brown died on the 28th of October, 1732, in the 
 sixty-sixth year of his age. He was, says Edwards, " an 
 example of piety and meekness worthy of admiration." He 
 had ten children ; namely, John, James, Joseph Martha, 
 Andrew, Mary, Obadiah, Jeremiah, Elisha, and Anna. 
 John died in 1716, childless. The rest married into the 
 Power, Field, Green, Knowlton, Harris, Comstock, Rhodes, 
 Smith, and Barker families. 
 
 IV. JAMES BROWN. 
 
 James, the second son of the preceding, was born March 
 22, 1G98. Very few memorials of his early life and sub 
 sequent career have been preserved. He engaged in 
 active business, and became a successful merchant of 
 Providence, thus laying the foundations of the wealth and 
 prosperity of his descendants. During the year 1723 he 
 married Hope, daughter of Col. Nicholas Power, and 
 grand-daughter of the Rev. Pardon Tillinghast, one of 
 the early pastors of the Baptist church. Mr. Tillinghast 
 who came over from England in 1G45, is said to have 
 been a soldier under Cromwell. He built, at his own ex 
 pense, the first meeting-house ever occupied by the church ; 
 a deed of which, and of the lot on which it stood, he exe 
 cuted to them and their successors in the year 1711. With 
 the beloved wife of his choice he lived most happily until 
 his death, which occurred on the 27th of April, 1739, in 
 the forty-first year of his age. She survived him many 
 years, dying June 8th, 1792, at the advanced age of ninety. 
 Both she and her husband were worthy members of the 
 church, and patterns of exemplary piety. She was re 
 markably amiable in her temper, and brought up her boys 
 well ; a proof, says one, of strength of character and mind, 
 
156 MANNING AND CHAP. TIL 
 
 which few widowed mothers possess. They had five sons, 
 and a daughter Mary. James, the eldest son, became mas 
 ter of a vessel. He died at York, Va., on the 15th of Feb 
 ruary, 1750, at the age of twenty-six. The daughter was 
 married to Dr. David Vanderlight, a German, who prac 
 tised medicine in Providence until his death, which oc 
 curred on the 14th of February, 1755, while in his thirtieth 
 year. She survived him long, dying on the 6th of May, 
 1795. The remaining sons, Nicholas, Joseph, John, and 
 Moses, familiarly known in Providence annals as the " Four 
 Brothers," will form subjects for more extended sketches. 
 
 V. 1 NICHOLAS BROWN. 
 
 Nicholas, the oldest of the " Four Brothers," was born in 
 Providence, on the 28th of July, 1729. At the age often he 
 was deprived of a father s care, and in a measure thrown 
 upon himself, as the senior representative of the family. 
 To the good counsels and judicious training of his excel 
 lent mother, for whom he ever cherished a profound re 
 gard, he was, doubtless, indebted for many of those traits 
 of character which rendered his life illustrious. At an 
 early age he gave proofs of the singular goodness of his 
 heart and of the benevolence of his disposition. Upon 
 coming to man s estate, immediately after the death of his 
 brother James, he could, as the eldest son, have inherited 
 a double portion of his father s property, in accordance 
 with existing colonial laws. Setting aside, however, all 
 legal rights,- and following only his generous impulses, he 
 promptly divided with his brothers and his sister Mary so 
 much of the paternal estate as fell to their lot. So auspi 
 cious a beginning of his career in life could hardly fail of a 
 happy and successful termination. He at once engaged in 
 
1769-1770. BROWN UNIVERSITY. loV 
 
 mercantile business, and thereby acquired a very ample 
 fortune. His success in trade was truly remarkable ; but 
 not more so than were his diligence and punctuality, 
 traits of character for which his descendants have ever 
 been distinguished. 
 
 On the 2d of May, 1762, at the age of thirty-three, he 
 married Rhoda Jenckes, fifth daughter of Judge Daniel 
 Jen ekes, whose name appears prominent in the history of 
 the college charter. Her mother was Joanna Scott, a de 
 scendant of Richard Scott, one of the original proprietors 
 of the colony, and an early member of the Baptist church. 
 This union proved a source of great domestic felicity. 
 They were blest with a numerous offspring; but of ten 
 children, only two survived them ; namely, Hon. Nich 
 olas Brown, from whom the University derives its name, 
 and the late Mrs. Hope Ives, wife of Thomas Poynton 
 Ives, Esq. After more than twenty-one years of happy 
 married life, this most excellent lady, whose special de 
 light it was to aid her husband in his deeds of charity, 
 and to cheer the gloomy mansions of poverty and pain, 
 was taken from him. She died on the 16th of December, 
 1783, in the full assurance of a blessed immortality. Dur 
 ing all her sickness she manifested a pious resignation to 
 the divine will. For many days previous to her death she 
 had expressed a desire to " depart and be with Christ ; " 
 and in this delightful frame of mind she continued, pa 
 tiently waiting the summons for her to " come up higher." 
 
 On the 9th of September, 1785, Mr. Brown married for 
 his second wife, Avis, daughter of Capt. Barnabas Binney, 
 of Boston. She was a woman of superior worth, and was 
 well versed in books and useful learning. Happy in her 
 society, and in the esteem and good-will of his fellow-men, 
 his remaining years glided peacefully on until his death, 
 14 
 
MANNING AXD CHAP. III. 
 
 which occurred on the 29th of May, 1791, in the sixty- 
 third year of his age. On the morning of this day, which 
 was the Sabbath, he rode out, and on his return break 
 fasted with his family as usual. After sending his son and 
 daughter to church, and declaring his intention, weak as 
 he was, to go himself to the house of God, he was taken 
 worse, and in a few hours, by an easy death, gently trans 
 lated from this state of change and trial to the pure and 
 blissful worship of the church above. On Tuesday follow 
 ing, his remains were carried to the Baptist meeting-house, 
 where a most eloquent and impressive funeral sermon was 
 preached by the Rev. Dr. Stillman, who for many years 
 had been his intimate friend. 
 
 From this sermon, which was afterwards published, we 
 make the following extract, as an illustration of the man 
 ner in which he was esteemed by those who had known 
 him long and well : 
 
 " Perhaps there is nothing more difficult than to give characters : we 
 say too much for some, and too little for others ; but in this instance the 
 deceased was too well known, and his character too long established, to 
 need any commendation from me. Yet I wish to gratify my present feel 
 ings, by saying that for twenty years I have enjoyed an intimate and 
 pleasing acquaintance with him, and knew him well. He was the affec 
 tionate husband, the tender father, the compassionate master, the dutiful 
 son, the loving brother, and the steady, faithful friend. He took much pains, 
 by reading and by conversation, to inform his mind, and had acquired 
 general knowledge. But religion was his favorite subject. To Chris 
 tianity in genera], as founded on a fulness of evidence, and to its peculiar 
 doctrines, lie was firmly attached. And from his uniform temper, his 
 love to the gospel and to pious men, together with his many and gen 
 erous exertions to promote the cause of Christ, we may safely conclude 
 that he had tasted that the Lord is gracious. Therefore we sorrow not 
 as they who have no hope. He was a Baptist from principle, and a lover 
 of good men of all denominations. Blessed with opulence, he was ready 
 to distribute to public and to private uses. In his death, the college in 
 
1769-1770. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 159 
 
 this place, this church and society, the town of Providence, and the gen 
 eral interests of religion, learning, and liberality have lost a friend indeed." 
 
 Mr. Brown, it is somewhat remarkable, never made a 
 public profession of that religion which, from the tenor of 
 his e very-day life, was seen to be the animating motive of 
 his conduct, and the source of his highest joys. He ap 
 pears to have been distrustful of himself, and to have 
 shrunk from a public avowal of his faith, from a too great 
 timidity, perhaps, and a painful consciousness of imperfec 
 tions and short-comings, which are but the common heri 
 tage of our fallen natures. Perhaps, too, his awful reverence 
 for Deity prevented his taking upon himself the solemn 
 vows involved in church covenant and membership. This 
 reverence impressed every one who heard him speak, or 
 saw him w r rite the sacred name. It was his custom to write 
 it in capitals, and he often desired others to do the same. 
 
 The following letter, addressed to his intimate friend, 
 the Rev. Hezekiah Smith, of Haverhill, Mass., affords a 
 happy illustration of his views and feelings in regard to 
 his religious state. It is interesting also from its allusions 
 to the college : 
 
 PROVIDENCE, March 30, 1772. 
 REVEREND SIR : 
 
 This may serve to acquaint you and Mrs. Smith that we have not for 
 gotten you. We have received none of your favors since 28th September, 
 by Mr. Manning ; yet we have no excuse for not writing to you before, 
 except that of not having any particulars worthy your notice. Mr. Bin- 
 ney, 1 a worthy, humble, and meek young Christian, having been the 
 evening with us, 1 engaged to forward these to you from Boston, as he 
 is now going home the ensuing vacation. His conversation upon Chris 
 tianity is really entertaining, and we sincerely wish, while we can say 
 that we take knowledge of him that he has "been with Jesus," that 
 
 1 Barnabas Binney, who graduated in 1774. 
 
ICO MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 the same might be said of ourselves. This knowledge we are still waiting 
 for. I hope, in the day of God s power, it will be made manifest in us ; 
 and I take this opportunity of requesting your fervent prayers that God 
 would remove from us the veil of ignorance and unbelief, and that Christ 
 in his fulness may be savingly applied to our souls through faith, which 
 we believe to be the gift of God, as saith the Scriptures. It is a very dull 
 time in religion here, though we have to rejoice that God has not left him 
 self wholly without a witness. We are informed that in Swanzey, among 
 the Baptists in Messrs. Mason s and Martin s societies, upwards of forty 
 have been baptized since January came in. Some additions have been 
 made to the Baptist churches in Newport. We have heard from Phila 
 delphia that Rogers was much liked there, and that his preaching has 
 been blessed. Mr. Edwards has gone to Carolina. I hope he may be 
 able to promote the collection of your subscriptions got there, as they are 
 much needed. There is nothing new here about the college. The lower 
 rooms have been finished, so that the scholars have lived in them this 
 winter. The enemies to the institution are doing what mischief they can, 
 by discouraging scholars from coming here ; which fact ought to stir up 
 every friend to exert himself to the utmost. Should be glad to hear of 
 some boys coming here from your quarter. Mr. President is well, but his 
 wife is poorly, with her old complaints. Pray let us hear of your welfare 
 by every opportunity. 
 
 Your most respectful and obedient servant, 
 
 NICHOLAS BKOWN. 
 
 In a letter to Mr. Smith, written fifteen years after 
 wards, Mr. Brown further remarks : " I am as rationally 
 convinced of the reality of religion as ever, and wish to 
 live with a more lively sense of it in my own soul. I 
 know there is a great work of duty to be attended to, 
 without which we have no promise. And I feel assured 
 that this line of duty, however straight and plain, we 
 shall not pursue, without the supernatural aids of that 
 Spirit of love" 
 
 To this sketch we append the following remarkable epi 
 taph, written by the Hon. David Howell, and placed upon 
 the monument erected by his widow and surviving chil- 
 
1769-1770. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 161 
 
 dren. It is a fitting and eloquent tribute to his memory, 
 and presents in brief a comprehensive view of his entire 
 life:- 
 
 IN MEMORY OF 
 
 IpkljolHS grofcm, (Ssjq., 
 WHO DIED MAT 29, A. D. 1791, ^ET. 62. 
 
 He descended from respectable ancestors, 
 
 Who were some of the first settlers in this State. 
 
 His stature was large, his personal appearance 
 
 Manly and noble, 
 
 His genius penetrating, his memory tenacious, 
 
 His judgment strong, his affections lively and warm. 
 
 He was an early, persevering, and liberal patron 
 
 Of the College in this town, 
 
 And a member and great benefactor of the Baptist Society. 
 His donations in support of learning and religion 
 
 Were generous and abundant. 
 
 His occupation was merchandise ; 
 
 In which, by industry, punctuality, and success, 
 
 He accumulated a large fortune. 
 
 He was plain and sincere in his manners, a faithful 
 
 Friend, a good neighbor, and an entertaining companion. 
 
 His knowledge 
 
 Of books, of men, of business, and of the world 
 Was great, and of the most useful kind. 
 
 He loved his country, 
 
 And had an equal esteem of liberty and good government. 
 He had deeply studied the Holy Scriptures, and was convinced 
 
 Of the great truths of revelation. 
 He was a religious observer of the Sabbath, 
 
 And of public worship, 
 
 And trained up his household after him. 
 
 He was a lover of all men, especially of good men, 
 
 The ministers and disciples of Christ, 
 
 Who always received a friendly welcome under his hospitable roof. 
 
 As in life he was universally esteemed, 
 
 So in death he was universally lamented. 
 
 The conjugal affection of a mourning widow, 
 
 And filial piety of an orphan son and daughter, 
 
 HAVE ERECTED THIS MONUMENT. 
 14* 
 
162 MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 Joseph, the second of the " Four Brothers," was born 
 Dec. 3d, 1733. At an early age he gave proofs of a supe 
 rior genius. He engaged in merchandise and in the man 
 ufacturing business ; and by his industry and skill acquired, 
 if not affluence, at least a competency, which enabled him 
 to indulge his natural taste for science. The first display 
 of his philosophical abilities was in electricity, in which he 
 became an adept. At his death he left an electrical ap 
 paratus of his own construction, equal, it is said, if not su 
 perior, to any then existing in the country. His researches, 
 too, in other branches of science, particularly in astronomy, 
 attracted the notice of the literati. But his favorite study 
 was mechanics. The want of an early education was an ob 
 stacle in the way of his literary career, but the efforts of his 
 genius in surmounting it excited the greatest admiration. 
 In testimony of his merits, the honorary degree of Master of 
 Arts was conferred on him, and he was elected a member 
 of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. 
 
 He was a warm friend of the college, of which he was a 
 Trustee from the year 1769 until his death ; and in all that 
 pertained to its prosperity and growth he was thoroughly 
 identified. In 1784 he was made a Professor of Natural 
 Philosophy ; and in consideration of the impoverished con 
 dition of the college, resulting from the war, he generously 
 gave his valuable services to the institution without com 
 pensation. He was thus the second professor (aside from 
 the President) ever appointed by the corporation ; the 
 Hon. David Howell being the first. He was a consistent 
 member of the Baptist church, being the only one of the 
 brothers who ever made a public profession of religion. 
 The meeting-house of this venerable society, which for 
 
1769-1770. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 nearly a century has adorned the place, still stands, a con 
 spicuous monument of his skill as an architect. In the 
 year 1775, we find that he was appointed by the General 
 Assembly, in company with the Hon. Esek Hopkins to 
 co through the colony and decide what places should 
 fortified, and in what manner. This shows the estimate 
 which the public put upon his judgment and abilities as a 
 
 man of science. 
 
 He died on the 3d of December, 1785, at the age off 
 one. His funeral was attended by a numerous train of 
 mourning relatives and friends, and a discourse suitable to 
 the occasion was delivered by his pastor, Dr. Manning. ^ 
 
 The following, which we copy from his tombstone, is a 
 brief summary of his character and virtues : 
 
 IN MEIIORY OF 
 
 f on. Jjottrt $fotx, <^-> 
 
 WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE DEC. 3D, 1785, 
 IN THE 52D YEAR OF HIS AGE. 
 
 In the course of his life 
 
 He was a Representative for the Town of Providence, 
 An Assistant of the Governor in Council, 
 
 A Trustee of Rhode Island College, 
 
 A Professor of Experimental Philosophy therein, 
 
 A Member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, 
 
 And of the Baptist Church, etc. 
 
 He became an adept in Electricity, 
 
 And well versed in Experimental Philosophy. 
 
 But his great strength appeared in his 
 
 Favorite study of Mechanics. 
 He was a Patriot from principle, 
 
 And zealous for his country s freedom and independence. 
 
 In his life were exemplified charity and munificence, 
 
 Preeminently, with other virtues of an 
 
 Honest man. 
 
 Erected by his disconsolate widow 
 And four children. 
 
> MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 Mr. Brown married Elizabeth, daughter of Nicholas 
 Power, Esq. In 1774 he erected for his residence the ele 
 gant house now owned and occupied by the Providence 
 Bank. Here, in happiness and peace, he spent the closing 
 years of his life. Of his children, Mary, the oldest, was 
 married, in 1799, to the Rev. Dr. Gano, who for nearly forty 
 years was the esteemed pastor of the First Baptist Church. 
 She died the following year, Dec. 8th, in the forty-first 
 year of her age. A funeral sermon on the occasion of her 
 decease was preached by President Maxcy, which sermon 
 was afterwards published. She appears to have been a 
 woman of great worth, possessing many and rare accom 
 plishments. Obadiah, who was never married, died Feb. 14, 
 1815, at the age of fifty-three. Eliza, the third child, mar 
 ried Richard Ward, a merchant of New York, son of Gov. 
 Samuel Ward, of Rhode Island. She died in 1845, without 
 issue. Joseph, the youngest, died in 1791, at the age of six 
 teen. The only living representative of the family is Mrs. 
 Eliza B. Rogers, wife of Joseph Rogers, and only daughter 
 of Dr. Gano, by his wife Mary. At her death, therefore, she 
 having no children, this branch of the Brown family be 
 comes extinct. Mrs. Rogers has recently given to the 
 University a scholarship, to be called the Joseph Brown 
 Scholarship, in honor of her distinguished grandfather. 
 
 We close this sketch of Mr. Brown with the following 
 extract from a pamphlet, published nearly a century ago, 
 entitled, "An Account of the Observation of Venus upon 
 the Sun, the third day of June, 17G9, at Providence, in 
 New England. With some Account of the Use of those 
 Observations. By Benjamin West. Providence : Printed 
 by John Carter, at Shakspear s Head, 1769." Mr. West, it 
 may be added, was Professor of Mathematics, Astronomy, 
 
1769-1770. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 1G5 
 
 and Natural Philosophy in Rhode Island College, from 
 1786 to 1798. 
 
 " It remains now to give an account of the preparations that were made 
 in Providence for the observation of this transit ; 1 in doing of which I 
 shall be as particular as possible, that the reader may the better judge of 
 the merit of our work. 
 
 " When it became more generally known that there would be a transit 
 of Venus in 1769, and the advantages that were like to accrue to as 
 tronomy, and consequently to navigation and chronology, from proper 
 observations of it, Mr. Joseph Brown, 2 a very respectable merchant of 
 Providence, being very desirous, if possible, to obtain an observation of 
 it, was pleased to advise with me concerning an apparatus suitable for 
 such an observation, and to know if we should be able to observe the 
 transit with the necessary precision for answering the important design. 
 
 " As the proposal was new and unexpected, my answer was not di 
 rect, as it required some time to consider of it. At length I gave him 
 my opinion concerning an apparatus proper for such an occasion ; and 
 that I thought we could observe the transit with that accuracy as would 
 render it worthy of notice, provided we could have such an apparatus as 
 was described. My answer gave him so much satisfaction in the matter, 
 that he immediately sent his orders to his correspondent in London to 
 procure the instruments. His orders were accordingly executed with fidel 
 ity and dispatch. They arrived in Providence about one month before the 
 
 1 The street called Transit Street was named in commemoration of this event. 
 The observations were taken on the hill where the street is laid out. 
 
 2 " Mr. Brown is a gentleman of a solid, active genius, strongly turned to the 
 study of mechanics and natural philosophy, which has induced him to construct 
 and furnish himself with as curious and complete an apparatus for electrical 
 experiments as any, perhaps, in America, and of which he well knows the use. 
 Heading Mr. Winthrop s account of the transit in 1761, was what first occasioned 
 him to send for a telescope, fitted in the manner Mr. Winthrop there describes. 
 Afterwards, taking notice of the application of the American Philosophical 
 Society to the Assembly of Pennsylvania for an apparatus for observing the 
 transit of Venus, he found the orders he had sent were incomplete. He then ad 
 vised with the author, as mentioned, and thereupon ordered a micrometer to be 
 added. Mr. Brown s expense in this laudable undertaking was little less than 
 100 sterling, besides near a month s time of himself and servants in making 
 the necessary previous experiments and preparations." 
 
> MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 transit. Our apparatus was made by Messieurs Watkins and Smith, 
 London. It consisted of a three-feet reflecting telescope, with horizontal 
 and vertical wires for taking differences of altitudes and azimuths, ad 
 justed with spirit-levels at right angles, and a divided arch for taking al 
 titudes ; a curious helioscope, together with a micrometer of a new and 
 elegant construction, with rack motions, and fitted to the telescope. Such 
 a noble disposition in Mr. Brown for promoting useful knowledge cer 
 tainly merits the applause of the public ; and, in justice to him, I must 
 acknowledge, our work could not have been done with equal accuracy 
 had it not been for his skill and contrivance therein." 
 
 V." JOHN BROWN. 
 
 John, the third brother in age, was born on the 27th of 
 January, 1736. He was the most active and energetic of 
 the family ; and in developing the industry and extending 
 the commerce of the town, he has left his impress upon 
 the entire community, in a degree seldom equalled. He 
 was the first merchant in Rhode Island, it is said, who 
 carried trade to China and the East Indies. He fostered 
 the interests of the church over which his ancestors had 
 been elders or ministers, contributing liberally of his wealth 
 for the support of preaching, and in creating a permanent 
 fund for the society. In founding, endowing, and sustain 
 ing the college, he was ever prominent and active, as our 
 pages throughout show. Though a wealthy merchant, 
 and having larger interests at stake than most men, he 
 was a patriotic leader in the cause of the American Revo 
 lution ; l and, at a later period, when his native State stood 
 
 1 In reference to Mr. Brown at the breaking out of the war in 1775, we find 
 the following, in a memoir of Elkanah Watson, published in the April number 
 of the New England Historical and Genealogical Register for 1863. Mr. Watson 
 was an apprentice to Mr. Brown at this period. 
 
 "Mr. Brown, finding the army desitute of every munition of war, particularly 
 of powder, directed the captains of his vessels, on their return voyages, to freight 
 
1709-1770. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 167 
 
 aloof from the Union, and refused to adopt the Federal 
 Constitution, he was distinguished as a champion of the 
 Federal party ; and he without doubt did more than any 
 other man towards securing the final adoption of the Con 
 stitution by the people of Rhode Island. In 1784 he was 
 chosen a delegate to Congress, in place of Jonathan Ar 
 nold, who had removed to Vermont. While here he was 
 appointed one of the commissioners for erecting the Fed 
 eral buildings, which it was then proposed to locate on the 
 banks of the Delaware. At the spring election in 1785, 
 he was again returned to Congress as a delegate, and in 
 1799 he was elected a member, serving two years. This 
 was about the last of his public life. He died on the 20th 
 of September, 1803, in the sixty-eighth year of his age. 
 
 with that article; and when the array at Boston had not four rounds to a man, 
 most fortunately one of Mr. Brown s ships brought in a ton and a half of pow 
 der, and it was immediately forwarded, under the charge of young Watson, to 
 
 Cambridge, attended by six or eight recruits to guard it Soon after this 
 
 war, Brown, having contracted to supply the army of Washington with flour, 
 sailed for Providence with a cargo from Newport. This vessel was seized, and 
 Mr. Brown was himself made prisoner, and sent to Boston in irons, charged 
 with heading a party, in 1772, which burned his Majesty s schooner Gaspee in 
 Providence river. 
 
 " The whole community were indignant and exasperated at his seizure. A 
 consultation was held immediately, and it was decided to send an express to 
 Plymouth in order to lit out two armed schooners to intercept, if possible, the 
 captured flour vessel, in her passage round Cape Cod." 
 
 Some sixty or eighty men embarked in two fishing schooners, equipped with 
 two old cannon each ; but alter cruising about Cape Cod for ten days, they re 
 turned without success. Mr. Brown was soon after released, through the inter 
 position of his brother Moses Brown. (Mr. Brown was taken prisoner Wednes 
 day, April 26, 1775, and released the following week.) 
 
 As a further illustration of Mr. Brown s prominence and activity in the war, 
 it may be stated that in the eighth volume (just published) of Bartlett s Colonial 
 Records, including a period of four years (1770-79), his name appears, in connec 
 tion with important committees and various public services, no less than twenty- 
 six times. No other name has such frequent mention in the volume to which 
 we have referred. 
 
168 
 
 MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 The following inscription on his tombstone describes 
 briefly, but well, his character and worth : 
 
 Underneath this stone 
 
 Are deposited the mortal 
 
 Kemains of 
 
 |0!jtt groixrit, 
 
 The enterprising and accomplished Merchant, 
 
 The tried Patriot and wise Legislator, 
 The universal Philanthropist and sincere Christian. 
 
 Born January 27th, 1736. 
 Died September 20th, 1803. 
 
 Wife, SARAH, daughter of 
 
 Daniel Smith and Dorcas his wife. 
 
 Born, Providence, May 13th, 1738. 
 
 Married November 27th, 1760. 
 
 Died February 27th, 1825. 
 
 Mr. Brown has been happily described as " a man of 
 magnificent projects and of extraordinary enterprise." 
 Whatever he did was in accordance with his enlarged 
 views, and oftentimes far in advance of the age in which he 
 lived. In his day Main Street was a sandy and disagree 
 able walk. He first caused it to be paved ; and although 
 at that time he had twenty sail of ships abroad upon the 
 sea, he might be seen busily engaged upon the work him 
 self, in order to be sure that it was properly done. " Uni 
 versity Hall," of which he laid the corner-stone, and in the 
 planning and construction of which he bore so prominent 
 a part, is even now one of the finest and best of the col 
 lege buildings. No other man would have had the resolu 
 tion and courage as " the committee man " to carry on the 
 building of the Baptist meeting-house, at a time when 
 Providence was comparatively a small town, and when 
 
1769-1770. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 1G9 
 
 hostilities between the colonies and the mother country 
 seemed about to begin. His own stately mansion, built 
 of imported brick and freestone, after English models, in 
 the year 1786, was long noted as one of the largest and 
 finest private residences in all New England. It was at his 
 former residence on South Main Street that he gave, in 
 honor of Gen. Nathauael Green, the greatest private dinner, 
 it is said, that had ever been given in Rhode Island. His 
 Commencement dinners, to which all graduates and friends 
 were freely invited, at a period when public dinners were 
 not provided by the college, as at present, 1 were remem 
 bered with pleasure years after the hospitable entertainer 
 had passed away. 
 
 In appearance and manners Mr. Brown was not perhaps 
 so prepossessing as his brother Nicholas. He was short in 
 stature, and inclined to corpulency. In his bearing he 
 was somewhat imperious at times, and seemed like one 
 born to command. Had he entered the army, he would 
 undoubtedly have attained to military distinction, possess 
 ing as he did the essential qualities of a great commander. 
 
 1 Commencement dinners, so called, were first provided after the death of 
 President Manning, as appears from the following entry in the records of the 
 corporation : 
 
 " COLLEGE HILL, Sept. 4, 1792. 
 
 " Voted, That the person who collects tuition from the students, in future 
 charge each student with one dollar per year, to be taxed in his third quarter s 
 bill for the year, to be applied towards furnishing a public dinner annually for 
 the corporation and gentlemen of a literary character who may attend the Com 
 mencements; which dinner is to be provided by the steward on Commencement 
 days, under the direction of a committee appointed by this corporation. 
 
 " Voted, That Dr. Euos Hitchcock, Mr. Welcome Arnold, and Col. Daniel 
 Tillinghast be a committee for directing the steward in providing the public 
 dinner the next Commencement." 
 
 From this time onward, as appears from the records, public dinners have been 
 regularly furnished for the corporation and graduates of the college on Com 
 mencement occasions. Of late years, however, the tax therefor on the students 
 has been confined to members of the graduating class. 
 
 15 
 
170 MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 As an instance of his wonderful influence over the people, 
 his grandson, Gov. Francis, relates, that, while riding about 
 the city with him, a fire broke out at India Point. He 
 immediately hastened to the spot, and at once his stento 
 rian voice was heard above the noise and din, giving com 
 mands with clearness and precision. Order took the place 
 of confusion. The crowd looked to him as their natural 
 leader in this emergency, notwithstanding the presence of 
 several fire organizations ; and soon the fire was extin 
 guished. This was about a year before his death. Mr. 
 Brown, as the inscription on his tombstone states, married 
 a daughter of Daniel Smith, of Providence, by whom he 
 had two sons and four daughters ; namely, James, who 
 died Dec. 12, 1834, aged seventy-three ; Benjamin, who 
 died July 7, 1774, aged ten ; Abigail, who died in infancy ; 
 Abby, who married, Jan. 1, 1788, John Francis; Sarah, 
 who married Charles F. Herreshoff ; and Alice, who mar 
 ried James Brown Mason, a graduate of the college in the 
 Class of 1791. 
 
 Mr. Brown is known in history by his connection with 
 the affair of the Gaspee, without some mention of which 
 our sketch of him would be incomplete . We have there 
 fore compiled the following account from Judge Staples s 
 "Documentary History of the Destruction of the Gaspee," 
 published in 1845, and also from Lossing, Arnold, and other 
 writers, as a fitting close to this brief biography. To his 
 grandson, the Hon. J. B. Francis, we are indebted for some 
 particulars of this transaction not found in the published 
 accounts. 
 
 In March, 1772, the Gaspee, a British armed schooner, 
 first appeared in the waters of Narragansett Bay, having 
 been despatched thither by the commissioners of customs 
 at Boston to prevent infractions of the revenue laws. Her 
 
1769-1770. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 171 
 
 appearance disquieted the people, and her interference 
 with the free navigation of the bay irritated them, 
 upon a spirited correspondence ensued, between Deputy 
 Governor Sessions and Gov. Wanton on the one hand, 
 and Lieut. Duddingston and Admiral Montague on the 
 other. On the 9th of June, 1772, Capt. Lindsey left New 
 port for Providence in his packet the Hannah. The Gaspee 
 as usual gave chase, but ran aground on Namquit, since 
 called Gaspee Point, below Pawtuxet, and the Hannah 
 escaped, arriving safely at Providence about sunset. Capt. 
 Lindsey at once communicated the fact of the grounding 
 of the Gaspee to Mr. Brown, who thought this a good 
 opportunity to put an end to the vexations caused by her 
 presence. He immediately ordered the preparation of eight 
 of the largest long-boats in the harbor, to be placed under 
 the general command of Capt. Abraham Whipple, after 
 wards commodore, who was one of his most trusty ship 
 masters. Information of the enemy s situation was pro 
 claimed by beat of drum; a man named Daniel 
 passing along Main Street and inviting such of the inhab 
 itants as were willing to engage in a perilous enterprise 
 for the destruction of the Gaspee, to meet at the house 
 James Sabine, lately the residence of Richard J. Arnold, 
 Esq. The boats left Providence between ten and elevei 
 o clock, filled with sixty-four well-armed men, and between 
 one and two in the morning they reached the Gaspee. 
 Two shots were exchanged, one of which wounded Lieut. 
 Duddingston in the groin. This was the first British blood 
 shed in the war of Independence. The schooner was now 
 boarded without much opposition, and the crew and officers 
 were compelled to leave with their effects, when she was 
 set on fire and blown up. Mr. Brown was the last man tc 
 leave the deck, being determined that no one should 
 
172 MANNING AND CHAP. III. 
 
 from the vessel anything which might lead to the identi 
 fication and detection of the parties. By so doing he nar 
 rowly escaped with his life, in consequence of the falling 
 timbers and spars. 
 
 When the news of this daring feat reached England, 
 the King s proclamation was issued, offering a reward of 
 one thousand pounds sterling for the arrest and conviction 
 of the two leaders of the affair, and five hundred pounds 
 each for any other of the offenders, with a free pardon in 
 addition, to any one concerned, except the two chiefs, who 
 would implicate the rest. A commission of inquiry, under 
 the great seal of England, was established, which sat from 
 the 4th until the 22d of January, 1773. It then adjourned 
 until the 26th of May, when it assembled and sat until the 
 23d of June. But not a solitary clew to the identity of 
 the perpetrators of the deed could be obtained, notwith 
 standing they were well known to the people. Many of 
 them were among the most prominent citizens of the col 
 ony. The price of treachery on the part of any accomplice 
 would have been exile from home and country ; and the 
 proffered reward was not adequate to such a sacrifice. 
 Moreover, those whose weak moral principles or strong 
 acquisitiveness might have tempted them into a compli 
 ance with the terms of the proclamation, were bribed, it is 
 said, to silence, by Mr. Brown and some of his associates. 
 The principal actors, besides Mr. Brown, were Capt. Abra 
 ham Whipple, John B. Hopkins, Benjamin Dunn, Dr. John 
 Mawney, Benjamin Page, Joseph Bucklin, Turpin Smith, 
 Ephraim Bo wen, and Capt. Joseph Tillinghast. Mr. Brown, 
 says Gov. Francis, afterwards deeply regretted this affair, 
 as foolhardy in itself, and resulting in so much needless ap 
 prehension to himself and family. For a long time he 
 was accustomed to sleep away from home, lest he should 
 
1769-1770. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 be arrested during the night. The first booming of the 
 guns at Lexington and Concord filled his mind with glad 
 ness. He was a stranger himself to fear, but he rejoiced 
 when the anxieties and fears of others were merged in the 
 open contest now commenced. History has given to the 
 leader in this Rhode Island enterprise the fame which he 
 so richly deserves. 
 
 MOSES BROWN. 
 
 Moses, the youngest of the brothers, was born on the 23d 
 of September, 1738. His father dying while he was in his 
 infancy, his youth and early manhood were spent in the fam 
 ily of his uncle, Obadiah Brown, a wealthy merchant of 
 Providence, whose daughter he married, and a portion of 
 whose estate he inherited by will. In 1763, one year pre 
 vious to his marriage, he engaged in mercantile pursuits, 
 in connection with his three brothers ; but after ten years 
 of active life he withdrew from the bustle of trade to that 
 retirement to which his feeble health invited, and which 
 was more congenial to his early-formed taste for intellec 
 tual pursuits. Here on his beautiful estate in the environs 
 of Providence, in rural quiet and simplicity, he spent a 
 long and useful life, aiding by his judicious counsels and 
 abundant wealth in the promotion of intelligence, piety, 
 and freedom among men. In his religious sentiments Mr. 
 Brown, like the rest of his family, was a Baptist. At the 
 early age of thirty-five he became a member of the society 
 of Friends ; and from that time until the close of life, a 
 period of more than sixty years, he was a firm adherent 
 to the primitive doctrines of the society ; exerted a strong 
 influence in all its concerns, both secular and religious ; 
 sustained many of its most important offices with dignity 
 15* 
 
174 MANNING AND CHAP, III. 
 
 and usefulness ; was long regarded as the patriarch of the 
 society; and was greatly respected and beloved for his 
 many Christian virtues, not only by his own brethren, but 
 by other denominations. He was the founder and patron 
 of the excellent institution known as the "Friends Board 
 ing School" in Providence, a school which, under the 
 auspices of the yearly meeting of the society, has done 
 much to diffuse the influences of intellectual culture amono- 
 
 o 
 
 the members of that estimable Christian denomination. 
 Among Mr. Brown s donations to this institution, may be 
 mentioned one of forty-three acres of land, on which the 
 school edifices now stand, and, at his decease, a house and 
 lot near the school, a valuable collection of books, and 
 fifteen thousand dollars in money. Besides these, his fa 
 therly regard for the children of others induced him to ap 
 propriate one hundred dollars annually during life for their 
 education. In this way he educated thirty individuals. 
 He was, in accordance with the principles of the religious 
 denomination to which he belonged, a friend of peace, and 
 opposed to slavery in all its forms. He manumitted his 
 slaves in 1773 ; was one of the founders, and for many years 
 an efficient member of, the Abolition Society of Rhode Isl 
 and, and was also an active member and liberal supporter 
 of the Rhode Island Peace and Bible Societies. Though 
 his constitution was originally feeble, yet he nearly com 
 pleted his ninety-eighth year ; until his last illness retaining 
 in a remarkable degree the use of his faculties of body and 
 of mind. He spent much of his time in reading and writ 
 ing, maintained an extensive correspondence, and rarely 
 made use of a clerk or an amanuensis. He made his will at 
 the age of ninety-six ; a long instrument, exemplifying, in 
 an interesting manner, his attachment to his friends, and his 
 desire to promote the cause of education, philanthropy, and 
 
1769-1770. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 175 
 
 religion. His death took place at Providence, September 
 6, 1836. 
 
 Mr. Brown was connected with the Masonic fraternity, 
 being one of the earliest members of St. John s Lodge, 
 Providence. He received his first degree on the 4th of Oc 
 tober, 1758. In December following, he was elected secre 
 tary of the Lodge, an office which he retained eleven years. 
 During this time the Lodge held ninety-seven meetings, at 
 eighty of which he was present, an instance, says the Rev. 
 Dr. Randall, of fidelity to official duties well worthy the 
 imitation of the generations that have succeeded him. The 
 discipline of the society of Friends, with which he subse 
 quently connected himself, forbade all union with Masonry ; 
 nevertheless, he continued to cherish a high regard for the 
 institution, although compelled to withdraw from active 
 connection with the fraternity. His brother John, it may 
 be added, was initiated a member of the Lodge on the 
 29th of March, 1758, and his brother Joseph on the 6th of 
 April, 1757. 
 
 A fine portrait of this venerable philanthropist has been 
 placed in Manning Hall, with the portraits of other distin 
 guished men. It was painted by Mr. Heade, from an 
 original sketch by W. J. Harris. Mr. Brown was three 
 times married ; but he outlived all his family lacking only 
 two years, two weeks, and two days of being one hundred 
 years old. By his first wife, Anna Brown, he had three 
 children, a son and two daughters. One of the latter 
 died in infancy. His daughter Sarah, who was married to 
 William Almy, died in 1794. His son Obadiah died in 
 1822, in the vigor and strength of manhood. His only 
 grandchild was the late Mrs. Anna Almy Jenkins, whose 
 untimely death, at the burning of her mansion, cast such a 
 gloom over the entire community. Tt> Moses Brown 
 
176 MANNING AND BROWN UNIVERSITY. CHAP. HI. 
 
 Jenkins, the only son of this grand-daughter, he bequeathed 
 the house and lands where, in peaceful retirement, he had 
 spent sixty-five years of his life, and where he breathed out 
 his latest breath. 
 
 In closing these imperfect sketches of the Browns, we 
 can but express our regret that no painter s skill has trans 
 ferred to canvas (except in the case of Moses Brown), 
 the looks and features of these great-hearted men, to 
 whose Christian activity and benevolence the present 
 generation is so largely indebted. We know them only 
 by their works. 
 
CHAPTER IV. 
 
 1770-1773. 
 
 First Baptist Church of Providence Founded by Roger Williams, in 1639 
 Samuel Winsor Manning s connection with the Church - Invited to preach 
 Controversy on Singing in public worship, and the Imposition of Hands 
 Becomes the Pastor in 1771 Revival under his preaching Letter to Dr. Sten- 
 nett, of London, giving an account of his views and feelings as Pastor of the 
 Church and President of the College, together with an account of the dispute 
 between the Baptists and Congregationalists of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, 
 and Connecticut Circular Letter of the Warren Association, in 1770, recom 
 mending the churches to seek redress of their grievances at the King s Court 
 in England Letter to Rev. Hezekiah Smith in behalf of an oppressed Baptist 
 Church in Richmond, N. H. Letter to Rev. John Ryland, of Northampton, 
 England Bitterness of the New England Congregationalists in general to 
 wards the College Ryland s reply List of worthy men of learning and 
 character in England deserving the honors of the College Letter from Mor 
 gan Edwards illustrating the ill-feeling of the Congregationalists towards the 
 College Extract from Prof. Knowles s Memoir of Roger Williams respecting 
 the expediency of unveiling scenes of intolerance and persecution Account 
 of the third Commencement, in 1771 Letter to Dr. Llewelyn, of London, giv 
 ing the condition and prospects of the College, and urging its claims upon his 
 benevolence Letter to Rev. John Ryland Honors of the College Spread 
 of Baptist sentiments in New England Manning suggests a Lottery to aug 
 ment the funds of the College His connection with the Latin School Man 
 ning s Salary Letter to Rev. John Ryland - Gift to the College of Dr. Gill s 
 Works and fifty-two volumes of the Fathers Ryland s letter to Manning 
 Character and early history of Ryland s friend, Rev. Augustus Toplady Let 
 ter to Dr. Stennett Letter from Rev. Isaac Woodman, of Thorp, England, 
 suggesting a printed Narrative of the College and declining its honors Man 
 ning s reply Extract from a letter from Ryland respecting a History of the 
 College Playful letter to Rev. Hezekiah Smith Letter to Rev. Benjamin 
 Wallin, a wealthy Baptist of London Wallin s reply Letter to Ryland 
 upon academic honors, and detailing facts illustrative of the ill-will of Congre 
 gationalists towards the College Ryland s reply List of Calviuistic Baptist 
 Ministers in England able to read the Greek Testament Letter from Kev. O. 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 Hart, of Charleston, S. C., thanking Manning for the discipline of the rod to 
 his son Letter to Kyland Letter to Wallin Letter to Rev. Abraham 
 Booth, of London, author of " Reign of Grace." 
 
 THE connection of Dr. Manning with the Biptist church 
 in Providence was an important event in his life, and is 
 therefore deserving of special notice. This church was 
 founded by Roger Williams, during the year 1639 ; and it 
 is the oldest Baptist church in America. With its history 
 prior to 1770 we have now no special concern. At that 
 time it numbered one hundred and eighteen communi 
 cants, and was under the pastoral care of the Rev. Samuel 
 Winsor, Jr. Residing at a distance from the meeting 
 house, and finding the duties of his office too arduous for 
 him, he made known to his people his earnest desire to be 
 released from services which he could no longer perform 
 without infringing upon family obligations, which he re 
 garded as paramount to all others. The settlement of 
 Dr. Manning in Providence was hailed by the church as a 
 happy event, supposing, as they did, that, by calling him to 
 be their pastor, they could carry into effect the wishes of 
 Mr. Winsor. He was at once invited to occupy the pul 
 pit. He accepted the invitation, and preached a sermon 
 on a Sunday which happened to be the day for the admin 
 istration of the Lord s Supper. Several of the members of 
 the church were, however, dissatisfied that " the privilege 
 of transient communion" should have been allowed to Dr. 
 Manning ; believing that he held the doctrine of imposition 
 of hands rather too loosely, and that he practised it more 
 to accommodate the consciences of others than to meet 
 the demands of his own. This dissatisfaction led to the 
 formation of a party, and to a series of church meetings, 
 in which the majority, however, was, in every instance, 
 found to be on the side of Manning. With this party Mr. 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 170 
 
 Winsor himself sympathized and acted. This, however, 
 was thought by some to be only " the ostensible reason " 
 of dissatisfaction with Mr. Manning. The true cause of 
 opposition to him was " his holding to singing in public 
 worship, which was highly disgustful to Mr. Winsor." 
 On this point the sentiments of the Quakers appear to 
 have prevailed in the church, and singing was discarded 
 as unauthorized by the New Testament. What diversity 
 of opinion once existed touching a point which seems clear 
 to us, may readily be seen by consulting the controversial 
 works, on this subject, of Keach, Russell, Allen, Marlow, 
 Claridge, and others, published in London towards the 
 close of the seventeenth century. 
 
 Finally, adopting for the most part the language of the 
 church records, Mr. Winser, in April, 1771, presented to 
 the church a writing, signed by a number of the members, 
 stating that they were in conscience bound to withdraw 
 from such as did not " hold strictly to the six principles 
 of the doctrine of Christ as laid down in Hebrews vi. 1, 2." 
 In May following he accordingly withdrew, and joined 
 the " Separates." After advising with the Rev. Gardner 
 Thurston of Newport, Rev. Messrs. Job and Russel Mason 
 of Swanzey, and others, the church appointed a meeting 
 to consider the propriety of calling President Manning to 
 administer ordinances ; whereupon the following resolution 
 was passed : 
 
 " At a meeting of the members of the Old Baptist Church in Provi 
 dence, in church meeting assembled this 31st day of July, 1771, Daniel 
 Jenckes, Esq., moderator : Whereas, Elder Samuel Winsor, now of 
 Johnston, has withdrawn himself, and a considerable number of members 
 of this church, from their communion with us who live intown ; and we, 
 being destitute of a minister to administer the ordinances amongst us, 
 have met together in order to choose and appoint a suitable person for 
 
180 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 this purpose. Upon due consideration, the members choose and appoint 
 Elder James Manning to preach and administer the communion accord 
 ing to our former usage." 
 
 To the above resolve Mr. Manning returned the follow 
 ing answer : 
 
 " As the church is destitute of an administrator, and think the cause of 
 religion suffers through the neglect of the ordinances of God s house, I 
 consent to undertake to administer pro tempore ; that is, until there may 
 be a more full disquisition of the matter, or time to seek other help ; at 
 least, until time may prove whether it will be consistent with my other 
 engagements, and for the general interests of religion." 
 
 Thus commenced a relation, which, through various 
 vicissitudes and trials, incident to the disturbed times that 
 soon followed, continued, with credit to the pastor and 
 with great advantage to the church and congregation, 
 down to a short period before Mr. Manning s death, in 
 1791. At first his preaching was not attended with marked 
 results. But in 1774 a remarkable revival of religion at 
 tended his labors, as the fruits of which one hundred and 
 four persons were added to the church. " It is delightful," 
 says the Rev. Dr. Hague in his Historical Discourse, " to 
 place ourselves in imagination amidst the scenes of that 
 year, to picture before us the able and faithful preacher 
 who then officiated here as he stood up amidst the large 
 assemblies of the people who thronged around him, listen 
 ing, as they did, to the gospel with intense attention, as a 
 message from the skies the very word of God, which 
 worketh effectually in them that believe, to mark the 
 lively interest which was kindled in every bosom and 
 beamed from every eye, as one after another came forth 
 on the side of the Lord, and professed his faith in public 
 baptism, to contemplate the fresh springs of spiritual 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 181 
 
 life which were then opened in many a house when the 
 family altar was first erected there, and parents and chil 
 dren bowed together to worship the common Father and 
 Redeemer in spirit and in truth." 
 
 The following letter to the Rev. Dr. Stennett gives 
 a pleasing account of Manning s feelings in view of the 
 responsibility of his position as head of the college and 
 pastor of the church : 
 
 PROVIDENCE, June 5, 1771. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 Your most agreeable favor of August 10th, 1770, came to hand the 19th 
 of January, 1771, after our ships had sailed for London; and conse 
 quently I have had no opportunity of acknowledging the receipt of it be 
 fore. There are two ships from this town which make two voyages a 
 year to London, besides others from the colony, by which letters will have 
 a safe conveyance. The captains names are Shand and Gilbert. I men 
 tion this that there may be the most direct conveyance. 
 
 I thank you for the expressions of kindness and respect in your letter, 
 and am as desirous as before to keep up a correspondence as often as op 
 portunity will admit. Mr. Gordon, the gentleman by whom you wrote, has 
 never called on me, nor can I hear any direct account of him since his ar 
 rival in America. Your good wishes to the college are very acceptable, 
 and we doubt not your readiness to contribute all in your power to its 
 future growth and increase. The popularity, usefulness, etc., of our first 
 sons, is to me an object truly desirable ; but these things I leave to the 
 wise conduct of the supreme Governor of the church. One of the youth, 1 
 graduated at our first Commencement, who is thought to be savingly 
 brought home by grace, has joined Mr. Thurston s church in Newport, 
 and appears eminently pious. As soon as his age will admit, for he is 
 quite a youth, he will be called to the work of the ministry, with hopes of 
 his making a distinguished figure in the pulpit. He bcai*s the greatest 
 resemblance to Mr. Hezekiah Smith of any person I know, and I hope 
 will make such another son of thunder. I am constrained to think that 
 Providence placed me at the head of the college ; but for what end I can 
 not divine, I hope for good ; for my ease and worldly advantage it could 
 
 i William Rogers. 
 
 16 
 
182 MANNING A N D CHAP. IV. 
 
 not certainly be, for I have been constrained to forego these, and many 
 more things desirable in life, on this account ; and in the discharge of my 
 office here I have found my way strewn with thorns hitherto. 
 
 Dr. Llewelyn s friendship for the college is highly satisfactory to us. 
 He has it in his power, and, we have reason to believe, in his heart, to do 
 it great service. I should highly prize a correspondence with a gentle 
 man of his merit, were a door properly open for it ; but to address him 
 with a letter, uninvited, and without particular cause for so doing, migbt 
 be deemed too great forwardness in me. I therefore choose to defer it at 
 present. We were sensibly affected at the news of Mr. Roffey s death, as 
 he promised usefulness to the public ; but God can raise up men to carry 
 on his own cause, in an unexpected way. The government is upon His 
 shoulders ; therefore we ought to rejoice. But nothing gives one such sat 
 isfaction as the account you give me of the success of the gospel in Eng 
 land. I firmly believe there are yet glorious days for the church militant, 
 and that the doctrine of believer s baptism will prevail in proportion to 
 the prevalence of the religion of the heart. I do not imagine this only from 
 my own sentiments that it is an important and glorious ordinance of the 
 Lord Jesus, but from facts ; for I have observed for some years past that 
 in this country it has been invariably the case where there has been a pow 
 erful moving of the Spirit of God upon the minds of men. I will give 
 you a recent instance. God has been doing wonders in Virginia and 
 North Carolina within these few years past. Thousands have been hope 
 fully converted to God in these two provinces ; and my Brother Gano, who 
 travelled through these provinces last summer and fall, informs me that 
 not less than two thousand have been baptized by immersion, upon pro 
 fession of their faith. And it has been observed there, that persons were 
 no sooner brought into the glorious liberty of the gospel than they fol 
 lowed the example of their Divine Master by going down into the water; 
 and that, too, where the name of Baptist was scarcely known. This 
 work, I am told, still continues, and extends five hundred miles in length 
 through the country. Truly, light has risen to those who were in the re 
 gion and shadow of death; for when I travelled through that country 
 about ten years ago, I thought as Abraham did of Zoar, that the fear of 
 God was not in that place. To me it seemed to be the rendezvous of 
 devils. But what cannot God do ? This indeed is all my consolation 
 when I view the unpromising appearance of religion in many places, 
 that God not only can, but will work, and none shall let or hinder it. 
 There is a gradual increase of the work of religion in sundry places in 
 
1770-1773. BROWN "UNIVERSITY. 183 
 
 New England. Mr. Smith, I am told, is still marvellously owned in his 
 labors, and that he was lately called to administer baptism to numbers at 
 a distance from where he resides, and to constitute two or three Baptist 
 churches. I can say but little of my success in the vineyard of the Lord, 
 although I hope there are some promising appearances of conviction 
 amongst us. The last Lord s Day there appeared an unusual solemnity 
 in the assembly, and I trust God enabled me, though a worm, to speak 
 with some happy degree of zeal and earnestness in warning souls of their 
 danger ; and if flowing eyes may be thought a presage of the return of 
 wanderers to God, I am not without hope of some seals of my ministry. 
 But alas my unprofitableness ! my unworthincss to be employed in so 
 sacred a work ! If ever one soul is converted by my instrumentality, it 
 will clearly appear that the excellency of the power is all of God. 
 
 But I cease to trouble you with my unprofitable complaints, and pro 
 ceed to give you some short account of the dispute between Baptists and 
 Presbyterians in the provinces of Massachusetts Bay, New Hampshire, 
 and Connecticut ; in the latter of which, I am told, some of our brethren 
 arc now in jail for ministerial rat6s, and in the other two many are forci 
 bly despoiled of their property for the same purpose. The Presbyterians, 
 I believe, are determined, where they have the power, to use it against us 
 to prevent our growth ; for no effectual remedy can yet be obtained, 
 though it has been carefully and industriously sought. They arc afraid, 
 if they relax the secular arm, their tenets have not merit enough and a 
 sufficient foundation to stand. This has been so plainly hinted by some 
 of the committees of the General Court, upon treating with our people, 
 that I think it cannot be deemed a breach of charity to think thus of them. 
 However, I will not pretend to justify everything which has been said and 
 done by Baptists during this controversy. I fear there has been too great 
 warmth in some publications ; yet it is certain that there has been great 
 provocation to write and speak some bitter things. However, I am far 
 from believing that the cause of God requires acrimony in defending it, 
 especially as the great Example of his people " reviled not again when he 
 was reviled." Upon the whole, it is very uncertain what will be the issue 
 of the matter, whether we must address the throne of our sovereign for 
 relief, or not. The contention has been improved as an argument against 
 sending scholars from that denomination to our college. How long this 
 will continue I know not ; but at present the clergy use all their endeavors 
 to this purpose. 
 
 I am glad to hear that there are three Baptists in the trust of Dr. 
 
184 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 Moore s fund who will see that the money is appropriated according to 
 the original proposal ; for our brethren of that denomination need good 
 looking after in these matters, if we may judge from what has happened 
 before. 
 
 I suppose you have heard that Dr. Wheelock has obtained a charter for 
 a college in the province of New Hampshire, and about twenty thousand 
 acres of land as an endowment, from the Governor and other gentlemen 
 who are largely concerned in lands there. He has begun his business, and 
 carried it forward with great rapidity. In short, from what I can gather, 
 it is to be a grand Presbyterian college, instead of a school for the poor 
 Indians. There Avere but two Indians there at school last fall, and they 
 were Narragansetts from this colony, brought up like us. Moreover, it 
 is more than a hundred miles distant from any number of Indians. I 
 have conversed with two intelligent gentlemen from that part of the coun 
 try, and, from what I can gather, the money raised in England by 
 Whitaker and Oakam will be as greatly prostituted as ever the fund for 
 propagating the gospel in foreign parts has been by another denomination 
 of Christians. 
 
 As to political matters, all is peace and quietness with us, though we 
 hear that the city of London and the House of Commons have proceeded 
 to great lengths in opposing one other, and that the Lord Mayor and Al 
 derman Oliver are committed to the Tower. We are anxious for the re 
 sult of this procedure ; but hope that God will order all matters for the 
 best, and bring good out of evil. 
 
 We now proceed slowly with the college, as our succors from abroad 
 fail. I hope we may have some more assistance from Great Britain as 
 soon as may be. 
 
 If your patience is not quite gone, permit me to request the favor of a 
 letter by our vessels this summer, in which you need not fear trespassing 
 upon my patience, though I have reason to fear I have upon yours, and 
 therefore subscribe, what I am in truth, dear sir, 
 
 Your very affectionate friend and brother in the Lord, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 Allusion having been made in the foregoing communica 
 tion to an effort on the part of the denomination to seek 
 redress from their grievances by direct application to the 
 " throne of our sovereign," or king, the following circular 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 185 
 
 is presented as a sort of appendix thereto. Aside from its 
 value in the connection, it will be read with interest as an 
 illustration of the spirit and zeal of our fathers, among 
 whom Manning was regarded as a " prince and a leader." 
 It has never before, we believe, been printed. 
 
 CIRCULAR LETTER OF THE WARREN ASSOCIATION. 1770. 
 
 The Elders and Messengers met in association at Bellingham, September 
 llth, 12th, and 13th. To the churches they represent, and all others of 
 the denomination of Baptists, send greeting : 
 
 "We met in peace, and upon reading the letters from the several churches, 
 found that they were generally at peace among themselves, some of them 
 having had considerable additions, the number of which, in all the 
 churches, amounts to fifty-six. We find that God hath not left himself 
 without a witness, but is still carrying on the work of grace in the 
 churches. We would not despise the day of small things ; yet at the same 
 time desire you to unite in solemn prayer to the great Head of the 
 church, that he would hasten the time when converts shall come as the 
 clouds, and fly as doves to their windows. Oh happy period, which God 
 in his wisdom has given us reason to expect, when the whole world shall 
 be filled with the knowledge of the Lord ! We have however to inform 
 you, dearly beloved, that some of our churches are sorely oppressed on 
 account of religion. Their enemies continue to triumph over them ; and 
 as repeated applications have been made to the court of justice and to 
 the general courts for redress of such grievances, but as yet have been 
 neglected, it is now become necessary to carry the affair to England in 
 order to lay it before the King. It is therefore warmly recommended to 
 you to endeavor to collect money to defray the expense which will arise 
 from such a proceeding. Should you not contribute in this matter, some 
 of our brethren must unavoidably be ruined as to this world ; especially 
 our brethren at Ashfield, some of whose lands have been taken from them 
 and sold for a trifle. Brethren, make the case your own, and then do as 
 you would be done by. We also recommend to you to search for prom 
 ising gifts among yourselves, and bring them to the trial, as there is a 
 great want of ministerial help in the churches. In fine, brethren, live in 
 love ; preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bonds of peace ; keep your 
 16* 
 
186 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 garments unspotted by the flesh, and may the God of peace and love be 
 with you. 
 
 P. S. The churches are requested to be expeditious in sending their 
 contributions to the Rev. Samuel Stillman, of Boston, who is appointed 
 treasurer, and to take his receipts. If our agent, Mr. Hezekiah Smith, 
 should not go to England, the money will be returned when demanded. 
 It is also requested that the churches will unite in keeping the first Thurs 
 day in October next as a day of fasting and prayer, to entreat God to 
 favor our undertaking to obtain liberty of conscience, and to save our prop 
 erty, and consequently our families, from ruin ; also that He will be gra 
 ciously pleased to revive religion, and to deliver our nation from its pres 
 ent difficulties. 
 
 To his friend the Rev. Hezekiah Smith he thus writes. 
 Manning, Edwards, and others, it will be observed, not 
 unfrequently use the term Presbyterians for Congregation- 
 alists. The two denominations are much more distinct at 
 the present day than they were a century ago. 
 
 NEWPORT, May 1, 1771. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 I perceive, by an application made to a neighboring Baptist church, 
 that the people in Richmond, in Hampshire Government (I mean the 
 Baptist church there), are in great distress on account of the taxes for the 
 clergy ; and so are the Baptists in sundry other towns thereabouts. The 
 charter gave a farm to the first settled minister in that town ; and Mr. Ba- 
 low, the Baptist minister, was the first, though a Eriend speaker was there 
 before him. Now the Friends have united with the Presbyterians, and 
 voted the farm for the use of the town. Upon the whole they seem 
 troubled much, and some are likely to be totally ruined by the Presbyte 
 rians. Now if you can lend any aid or assistance, you will do them a sin 
 gular favor; and I have been urged to write to you, that, if possible, you 
 might make interest with the Governor, or some of the great men, to re 
 dress these grievances. I received a letter from Mr. Edwards, dated 
 March, which informs me that he has a law of New Hampshire which 
 obliges the Baptists to pay their ministers, that is, Presbyterian minis 
 ters, and he is greatly afraid they will fall into the snare. Pray do your 
 utmost to prevent the Baptists from taking the benefit of that law ; for the 
 
1770-1773. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 187 
 
 Presbyterians will triumph in that case. Mr. Rogers, the bearer, will 
 give you information of my affairs, and other matters in these parts ; so 
 that nothing remains but to desire you with Mrs. Smith to pay us a visit 
 soon, to whom with yourself I give my sincere love, and remain, sir, 
 Your very loving friend, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 The following letter was the commencement of a corres 
 pondence with the Rev. John Ryland, of Northampton, 
 England, for many years principal of a flourishing acade 
 my in that place. Mr. Ryland was a distinguished scholar 
 as well as a Baptist preacher, and was held in high esteem 
 by Dr. Johnson and other eminent men of his time. He 
 published " Contemplations on the Beauties of Creation," 
 in three volumes octavo, " Essay on the Advancement of 
 Learning," and various sermons and pamphlets. He died 
 
 in 1792. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, June 1, 1771. 
 REVEREND SIR : 
 
 By the Rev. Morgan Edwards, last year. I was directed to draw upon 
 you, the first of June, for five guineas, which you proposed to contribute 
 annually to the support of the President of Rhode Island College during 
 life, if your circumstances would admit of it. I drew accordingly in 
 favor of Messrs. Joseph and William Russell, merchants of Providence ; 
 and, according to my instructions, have done the like this year, in favor 
 of the same gentlemen. 
 
 Your zeal for the welfare of this young seminary, discovered in this as 
 well as many other instances, has gained you the high esteem of all the 
 true friends of the college here ; but the particular favor done me herein 
 has laid me under the strongest obligations of gi atitude, of which I hope 
 not to be unmindful, in any instance, when in my power to express a 
 proper sense of them ; and at present I can only do this by the strong 
 est expressions of thankfulness, and fervent prayer to God that he would 
 abundantly reward your beneficence in this and in the life to come. 
 
 I was particularly obliged in your favoring me with the patterns of the 
 regular Greek and Latin nouns and verbs, etc., and find it the most easy 
 method of leading boys into a general notion of grammar in a short time. 
 The college in this place consists of twenty-three youths, five of whom are 
 
188 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 to leave us in the fall ; though we hope to have some additions at that 
 time. The institution calls for the vigorous exertions of all its friends, as 
 well on account of the smallness of its funds as the unreasonable opposi 
 tion made against it by Pedobaptists ; especially the New England Pres 
 byterians in general, who express the greatest bitterness on every occasion. 
 The part I have had to act in the matter has exposed me to numberless 
 difficulties hitherto ; although I am cheerful under the hopes of its rising, 
 at some future period, to be the joy of its friends and the denomination, 
 as well as the mortification of its ungenerous enemies. The state of reli 
 gion in New England is at a low ebb in general, except a few places, 
 amongst which Mr. Stillman s of Boston is one, where there have been 
 lately large additions to the church. Should there be any gentlemen of 
 your acquaintance in England on whom diplomas might be well bestowed, 
 we should always be glad to be advised thereof, and confer them accord 
 ingly. Forgive this unsolicited scrawl, and believe that it had its birth 
 in the unfeigned gratitude and real friendship of, sir, 
 
 Your humble servant, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 To this letter Ryland thus replies : 
 
 TO MY WORTHY FRIEND, Mil. JAMES MANNING, 
 
 PRESIDENT OF RHODE ISLAND COLLEGE : 
 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : I received your letter in due course by 
 the post from London, and took care to pay your draft on me for 5 5s. 
 when it came for payment, which it did in the beginning of December. 
 Where it lodged all that time after you drew it, I know not. 
 
 Be assured that I have the interests of your college deeply at my heart ; 
 and in order to serve it I have picked out the enclosed list of scholars, for 
 whom I solicit some of your academical feathers, to the end that we may 
 attach as great a number of active and learned men to your seminary as 
 we can. Who knows but some of them may do you more service in the 
 long run than we can at present imagine 1 I am determined to send over 
 some names every year as long as I live ; but be assured I shall not rec 
 ommend one that shall be a dishonor to your college, if I know it. 
 
 Have you had a short account of the ministers and churches of the Bap 
 tist denomination in England ? If not I shall take care to send it. At 
 present I would just observe that we have about two hundred and fourteen 
 churches and ministers. About twenty-four ministers, perhaps twenty-six, 
 can read the original languages in which the Bible was written. Amongst 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 189 
 
 them I have a son (John), nineteen years of age, who was called to the 
 ministry last year. He read his Greek Testament into English all through 
 before lie was nine years old, and is very ready at Hebrew, Latin, and 
 French. Grace called him at fourteen years of age. I baptized him when 
 he was about fifteen, and we received hirn into the church. He proves a 
 good, zealous boy, and the people of God love to hear him preach. He 
 has ventured to publish a volume of poems on experimental religion, the 
 whole edition of which, five hundred, has gone off in less than a year. If 
 I can procure a copy, I will send you one for your public library. Per 
 haps it may be a stimulus to some lazy student on your side of the water. 
 My opinion, I am persuaded, is the same with yours, " that young boys 
 and students need all sorts of motives to keep them in a steady, regular, 
 resolute pursuit of learning and religion/ and for this purpose academi 
 cal honors were wisely instituted ; and tis for this reason I desire for 
 my brethren in the ministry who desire it the honors of your college, in 
 order to incite others to the same diligence. I am sorry to say it, but tis 
 too true, that above one hundred and seventy Baptist ministers in England 
 have been kept from reading the Hebrew Bible and Greek Testament 
 more by laziness and cowardice than by the difficulty of attaining it. I 
 want to rouse these sluggards into diligence, and for that purpose I ear 
 nestly beg your assistance. 
 
 N. B. Out of ten thousand clergy, we have seventy or eighty that 
 preach the gospel. The Presbyterians are almost all gone off to Socini- 
 anism. We have a few in London that are excellent men ; namely, Dr. 
 Langford, Dr. Trotter, Gco. Stephens A.M., Mr. Hunter, and the Kev. 
 Mr. Spilsbury. I cannot at present give you an exact list of our Inde 
 pendent ministers in London and the country, but shall try to send you 
 an account. Let me be sure to hear from you four times a year ; that 
 is to say, once every quarter. 
 
 WORTHY MEN OF LEARNING AND CHARACTER WHO DESERVE THE 
 HONORS OF RHODE ISLAND COLLEGE. 
 
 I. OF THE ESTABLISHED CHURCH OF ENGLAND. 
 
 1. AUGUSTUS MONTAGUE TOPLADY, A.B., Hector of 
 
 These are 
 
 Broad Hemburg, Devon. 
 
 most excellent ^ HENRY FOSTER, A.B., Curate to the Rev. Mr. Ro- 
 men as H 
 
 scholars maine - 
 
 and divines. 3. JOHN NEWTON, Curate of Olney ; a man of uncom 
 mon wisdom, and a fine writer. 
 
190 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 II. INDEPENDENTS. 
 
 1. WILLIAM PORTER, minister in Camomile Street. 
 
 2. JOHN STAFFORD, successor to Dr. Guise. 
 
 3. JOHN PYE, minister at Sheffield, Yorkshire. 
 
 4. WILLIAM HEXTALL, successor to Dr. Doddridge, at Northampton. 
 
 5. MOSES GREGSON, at Rowell, Northamptonshire. 
 
 6. JOSHUA SYMMONDS, at Bedford. Preaches in John Banyan s pulpit. 
 
 7. Rev. JAMES JENNINGS, at Islington, near London. 
 
 8. SAMUEL WILTON, at Tooting, in Surrey. 
 
 III. PARTICULAR BAPTISTS. 
 
 1. ROBERT DAY, of Wellington, Somersetshire. 
 
 2. JOHN BROWN, of Kettering, Northamptonshire. 
 
 3. JOHN ASH, of Pershore, Worcestershire. 
 
 4. JOHN POYNTING, of Worcester. 
 
 5. BENJAMIN FULLER, of Devizes, Wiltshire. (An old, rich, learned 
 
 man, that can leave 100 to the college.) 
 
 6. JOHN OULTON, of Rawdon, in Yorkshire. 1 
 
 The "bitterness" of the Congregationalists of New 
 England towards the college, to which Manning alludes, 
 and their " unreasonable opposition " to it from its begin 
 ning, are illustrated in the following extract from a letter 
 addressed to him by his friend Morgan Edwards. The 
 writer supposes the President to have expected the friend 
 ship and help of the Congregationalists, had not the Bap 
 tists complained of the oppression of their brethren in New 
 England, and threatened to carry their complaints to the 
 throne of the King, in case the oppression should be con- 
 
 1 The seventeen names mentioned in the above list all received the honor 
 ary degree of A.M. at the annual Commencement of the college in 1773 and in 
 1774. (See Triennial Catalogue.) It does not, however, appear that Mr. liyland s 
 good wishes in regard to the benefit which the college might thereby derive 
 were ever realized, at least to any great extent. The unhappy feeling engendered 
 by the war of the Revolution was, probably, the cause of this apparent neglect 
 or indifference. 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 191 
 
 tinned. The letter, which is published in Staples s Annals 
 of Providence, is a brief recapitulation of facts already 
 stated in other forms. Mr. Edwards was evidently accus 
 tomed to express his opinions without reserve, and some 
 times, perhaps, with a little too much pungency. 
 
 " I should not have ventured to oppose my opinions to yours, had not 
 facts, recent facts, decided the matter in my favor, and shown that the 
 goodness and candor of the President have imposed on his judgment. 
 Remember you not the first charter 1 While the Baptist college was yet 
 in emhvyo they very disingenuously opposed it, as such, and contrived to 
 make it their own ; since which disappointment Dr. Stiles would have 
 nothing to do with it, though courted again and again to accept even a 
 fellowship therein. And when the present charter was presented to the 
 Assembly at South Kingston, remember you not what clamor they raised 
 against it there ? And Avhat stout opposition they made to the passage 
 of it, insomuch that its friends thought it best to desist ? And how they 
 triumphed afterwards ? And when the affair was brought on again at 
 East Greenwich, the next session, you can never forget with what heat 
 and coarse expression the same oppositions were renewed, nor the morti 
 fication and murmurings which the passing of it occasioned. It is true, 
 while the charter lay dormant they remained easy, and, as you say, appeared 
 well pleased when you had set it on foot at Warren. But the reason of 
 that is obvious. They knew that while the college stood friendless and 
 moneyless, as it then did, they should have the pleasure to see it fall, and 
 to mock those who began to build a tower and were not able to finish it. 
 But seemed they good-humored when money came thither from Europe ? 
 or did they look as the man of Bristol did, at your first Commencement, 
 and put the same invidious construction upon everything that he did on 
 the complaisance you showed him that day ? Their good affection toward 
 the college edifice was but varnish ; for while with specious arguments 
 they would have it here, and anon there, and then in another place, they 
 were only working to prevent it being anywhere ; and soon as it had a 
 locality and the beginning of its existence, at Providence, did they not, 
 with some misled Baptists, attempt to get another college, to destroy 
 yours, and actually carried their design through the lower house ? This 
 also failing, what remains but to prevent youth from resorting to it ? Their 
 slandering the officers of instruction, as insufficient ; the town where it is 
 
192 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 in, as a lawless place ; the college, as wanting government ; their repre 
 senting it as a nest of Anabaptists, calculated to make proselytes ; their 
 visiting grammar schools and tampering with masters and parents ; their 
 scolding Presbyterian youth when they enter with you, as your neighbor 
 Eowley did, who is capable of nothing but what is gross and indelicate ; 
 their refusing to pay their subscriptions, etc., are all intended to hurt 
 what they could neither prevent nor destroy. Think you that their pres 
 ent opposition to the college is the effect of those newspaper complaints 
 and threatenings of Presbyterian oppression in New England ? Why, 
 then, did they oppose it before those complaints and threatenings had ex 
 istence 1 ? .Think you they will be friends should we desist from these 
 complaints and court their favor ? It cannot be, except God should once 
 teach them to love their neighbors as themselves, and do as they would 
 be done by. Destroying the Baptist college will pacify them, and noth 
 ing else. The existence of that on the hill of Providence is a Mordecai 
 in the gate. I told you, long "ago, that if you could not do without the 
 Presbyterians, you could not do at all. I need not inform you that I deal 
 in generals. I except the honest, the trusty, and the good, and some such 
 Presbyterians I have met with, in their connections with this college. 
 God send us more, and mend the rest." 
 
 These ecclesiastical oppressions, and this sectarian bit 
 terness towards the college, have all passed away, and are 
 now forgotten ; if occasionally recalled to remembrance, 
 it is only in the spirit of kindness, as impressive admoni 
 tions to the fuller exercise of that charity which "beareth 
 all things." As matters of history, they must of necessity 
 appear conspicuous in any faithful account of the life and 
 correspondence of Manning. They unveil, it is true, 
 scenes of intolerance and persecution, which the enemies 
 of religion may view with impious delight. On this point 
 we may be allowed to quote the remarks of Professor 
 Knowles, in" his preface to the Memoir of Roger Williams. 
 "We must not," he says, "in order to promote or defend 
 religion, attempt to conceal events which history has 
 already recorded, and much less to palliate conduct which 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 193 
 
 we cannot justify. Let us rather confess, with frankness 
 and humility, our own faults, and those of our fathers ; 
 learn wisdom from past errors ; and bring ourselves and 
 others, as speedily as possible, to the adoption of those 
 pure principles by which alone Christianity can be sus 
 tained and diffused. The book of God records, among its 
 salutary lessons, the mistakes and sins of good men." 
 
 On Wednesday, Sept. 4, 1771, was celebrated the third 
 anniversary Commencement, at which six young men took 
 their Bachelor degrees. From the account of this Com 
 mencement in the Providence Gazette, we present an ab 
 stract of the President s address : 
 
 " A concise, pertinent charge was then delivered to the graduates, by 
 the President ; in which, besides many useful instructions and cautions, 
 he remarked that this institution, though liberal and catholic in its foun 
 dation and government, despising the contracted views of a party, aim 
 ing at the good of mankind in general, and always studious to maintain a 
 good agreement and harmony with others of the like nature, had not been 
 so happy as to pass altogether without censure ; and that not only from 
 the ignorant and pedantic, but even from some of those whose friendship 
 it has sought, and would highly esteem, could it consistently be obtained. 
 He concluded by requesting their friendship and kind offices to that semin 
 ary of learning in which they had received their education ; and with 
 great energy exhorted them that if they could not, by their joint testimony 
 of the generous, free, and impartial manner in which they had been treated 
 in the course of their studies, silence the unreasonable clamors of igno 
 rance and enmity, to give the world the same kind of proof of the useful 
 ness of the institution which some of its first sons now do, who fill public 
 stations with honor to themselves and advantage to mankind." 
 
 Among the graduates this year was Samuel Ward, son 
 of Governor Ward, who, at the age of eighteen, com 
 manded a company, under Arnold, through the wilderness 
 of Maine to Quebec. He served with reputation in the 
 army during the Revolutionary War, attaining to the 
 17 
 
194 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 rank of lieutenant-colonel. Another graduate was Thomas 
 Ustick, who was for many years the esteemed pastor of the 
 Baptist church in Philadelphia, having succeeded the Rev. 
 Dr. William Rogers. 
 
 The following letter, addressed to Thomas Llewelyn, 
 LL.D., presents an idea of the condition and prospects of 
 the college, and especially of the library, at this time. It 
 affords an illustration of the author s skill in urcfmsr the 
 
 O O 
 
 claims of the institution over which he presided upon the 
 attention of strangers of reputed benevolence and wealth. 
 Mr. Llewelyn was a distinguished Cambro-British scholar 
 of London. He published, in 1768, a History of the Welsh 
 Versions of the Bible, and, in the following year, " Histor 
 ical and Critical Remarks on the British Tongue." He 
 died on the 7th of August, 1783, bequeathing to the Bris 
 tol Academy, where he pursued his early studies, his large 
 and valuable library. Dr. Gibbons was accustomed, says 
 Rippon, to speak of him " as the first scholar among the 
 Protestant Dissenters." 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Feb. 21, 1772. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 I am emboldened to address you, both from the recommendation of 
 Dr. Stcnnett to do so, and from my knowledge of your friendship to the 
 college in this town, of which you would doubtless be glad to know the 
 state. 
 
 The college edifice is erected on a most beautiful eminence, in the neigh 
 borhood of Providence, commanding a most charming and variegated 
 prospect ; a large, neat brick building, and so far completed as to receive 
 the students, who now reside there, the whole number of whom is twenty- 
 two. We have the prospect of further additions; yet our numbers will 
 probably be small until we are better fm-nished with a library and philo 
 sophical apparatus. At present we have but about two hundred and fifty 
 volumes, and these not well chosen, being such as our friends could best 
 spare. Our apparatus consists of a pair of globes, two microscopes, and 
 an electrical machine ; to this we are desirous of making the addition of 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 195 
 
 an air pump, if one reputable can "be purchased for 22 10s. sterling; a 
 sum which two young men informed me they intended to give towards an 
 apparatus or library. If, therefore, it would not be too much trouble to 
 inform me whether or not that sum is sufficient, I shall receive it as a 
 particular favor ; for if not, we shall appropriate it to some other use. 
 
 Our whole college fund consists of about 900 sterling, being the 
 whole sum collected abroad ; for no money collected without the colony 
 is made use of in the building, but solely applied to endowing it, with the 
 strictest regard to the donor s intent. The interest of this sum is quite 
 insufficient to provide for tuition, as two of us are now employed, and we 
 stand in need of further help. May we not expect some further assistance 
 from our friends in England 1 ? or must we conclude that the Baptists, 
 only, are inattentive, to their own cause, while seminaries of other denom 
 inations have the highest reason to extol their generosity? or is it be 
 cause we use less industry to promote our common cause than others ? 
 If so, what might another personal application to England do on this 
 head, could we find a person among us, of public spirit, who could forego 
 the mortification of a beggar, etc. ? Mr. Edwards happened in England 
 at a most unfavorable juncture, or we should have expected far better 
 success. If you imagine anything considerable can be done, we shall 
 strive hard to obtain some person for this purpose ; if not, permit me to 
 solicit your interest, where you may be able to serve the cause. We have 
 had the earliest proofs of your regard for the infant college, and retain a 
 grateful sense of your unsought favors. 
 
 I shall take pleasure in communicating any intelligence in my power, 
 whenever you please to lay your commands. My present situation is 
 such as will furnish me with a general acquaintance with the state of the 
 Baptist society in America, especially as I have travelled through the 
 greatest part, and hold correspondence with some in almost all the prov 
 inces. 
 
 The ship by which this comes is bound directly back to Providence ; and 
 being owned by a zealous friend of the college, any books, or other things, 
 should there be anything to send from any of our friends, would not only 
 come directly, but free from the expense which might otherwise attend 
 them. 
 
 The jealous eye with which other denominations of Christians behold 
 this infant seminary leaves us without hope of any assistance from any 
 but Baptists ; and I think if we could but unite, and the whole body lend 
 a helping hand, we should be able, without great difficulty, to rear the 
 
196 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 tender plant to a degree of maturity which might greatly subserve the 
 cause of religion, especially in our society. 
 
 Craving your indulgence for giving you this interruption, and sincerely 
 wishing you every felicity in this and a future world, I remain, dear sir, 
 Your unworthy brother and servant in the gospel, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 TO THE REV. JOH1ST RYLAND. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, May 19, 1772. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 On the 5th ult. I received your letter, as I judged from the contents, 
 for it had neither your name nor any date to it. The contents gave me 
 very great pleasure on various accounts, as a testimony of your regard 
 for me, the college, and the cause of religion in general, and especially 
 for the zeal you discover in promoting the Baptist interests. The list of 
 names you sent me shall be laid before the Faculty next September, and 
 without doubt they will receive the honors of the college. We shall also 
 be obliged to you for your proposed favor of sending us some names every 
 year, and such, too, as are worthy of honor. I saw a paragraph in a 
 letter to Rev. Isaac Backus, from Rev. Benjamin Wallin, of London, in 
 which he intimated we had conferred degrees on some on your side of 
 the water who would not do us honor. I shall therefore rely on you to 
 pay particular regard to the literary qualifications of those whom you rec 
 ommend, in order that our enemies may not have it in their power to re 
 proach us on this head. I thank you for the hint given me concerning the 
 number of our ministers and churches in Britain, and your offer of send 
 ing me a short account of them, which I have not seen. If there should 
 be more than one on hand, it would gratify some of our friends if I could 
 supply them. The present of the volume of poems will be very accepta 
 ble. Please to give my cordial love to the author, of whom I shall be 
 mindful amongst others who deserve the honors of the college. I hope 
 you will be happy in seeing him not only a faithful but successful laborer 
 in Christ s vineyard. You may assure yourself that I will contribute all 
 in my power to assist in "rousing the sluggards," etc. If the Presbyte 
 rians have let go the faith, I hope it is to promote the primitive ordinances 
 of the gospel under the direction of a wise Providence. I think this has 
 been and now is the case in New England ; for many of the good peo 
 ple are following Christ into the water, who before quieted their con 
 sciences by the example of the fathers now with God ; but they cannot find 
 
1770-1773. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 197 
 
 the same reason when they view the clergy of the present age. In short, if 
 you hear of a work of God s Spirit among the Presbyterians of New Eng 
 land, you will soon hear that a Baptist minister is applied to to baptize 
 them. God has been and is still doing marvellous things, in the outpour 
 ing of his Spirit on some of our churches ; especially in Boston, Dighton, 
 Rhehoboth, Swanzey, in the Bay Government, and in Warren, of this 
 colony, under the ministry of Mr. Charles Thompson, one of the first class 
 that graduated at this college. I am told that near three hundred have 
 been baptized in these places since last September. Mr. William Rogers, 
 a member also of the same class, about twenty-one years of age, has been 
 called to the ministry, and is preaching in Philadelphia, where God ap 
 pears to own his labors to admiration. He is a pious, warm Christian, 
 and a very popular preacher in that city. All these things encourage me 
 to believe that God regards this college with a favorable eye ; especially 
 as I have reason to hope that he has called by grace some who are now in 
 college, since they came here, while others appear to be hopefully anxious 
 about their salvation. 
 
 I shall make free to draw on you again the 1st of June, by Mr. Edwards s 
 instruction, and continue to do so yearly until you forbid me. What 
 think you of an application to England, by some suitable person, in order 
 to augment our little and insufficient fund, as Mr. Edwards made but a 
 partial application ; or would a well-concerted scheme of a lottery 1 to raise 
 1000 or 2000 sterling meet with encouragement by the sale of tickets 
 in England ? Some method must be adopted, unless some generous, able 
 benefactors should arise to assist us. I shall write frequently and long ; 
 and if you will do the same to me, you will greatly oblige, 
 
 Yours, etc., 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 1 Suggested perhaps by Mr. Manning s familiarity with the history of the Col 
 lege of New Jersey, the funds of which institution had been increased by lot 
 teries which the legislatures of Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey had 
 granted for this purpose. Harvard and Yale Colleges, it may be added, were 
 also aided by lotteries, the former even as recently as the year 1808. To show 
 how common were lotteries in Rhode Island at this time, it may be stated, that, 
 in the space of twenty-seven years, from 1752 to 1779, no less than fifty-four were 
 granted by the General Assembly for the building of churches, parsonages, 
 schoolhouses, bridges, streets, wharves, etc., as we find by looking over the " Co 
 lonial llecords." 
 
 For a very interesting account of lotteries in behalf of the Rev. Dr. Hopkins s 
 church in Newport, the reader is referred to Prof. Park s Memoir of the Life 
 and Character of Dr. Hopkins, pp. 113, 114. 
 17* 
 
198 MANN ING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 From the following notice, which was published in the 
 Providence Gazette, it appears that President Manning 
 still retained charge of the Latin school, it being without 
 doubt the same which he commenced at Warren eight 
 years previous to this date. Thus, in addition to his labors 
 as pastor of the church and President of the college, he 
 was engaged in teaching lads, directly or otherwise, the 
 elements of knowledge, and in furnishing them, as also the 
 college students, with school books, " at the lowest rate." 
 
 Whereas several gentlemen have requested me to take and educate then- 
 sons, this may inform them, and others^ disposed to put their children 
 under my care, that the Latin school 1 is now removed, and set up in the 
 college edifice ; where proper attention shall be given, by a master duly 
 qualified, and those found to be the most effectual methods to obtain a 
 competent knowledge of grammar, steadily pursued. At the same time, 
 spelling, reading, and speaking English with propriety, will be particularly 
 attended to. Any who choose their sons should board in commons, may 
 be accommodated at the same rate with the students, six shillings per 
 week being the price. And I flatter myself that such attention will be 
 paid to their learning and morals as will entirely satisfy all who may send 
 their children. All books for the school, as well as the classical authors 
 read in college, may be had, at the lowest rate, of the subscriber. 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, July 10, 1772. 
 
 1 Where the Latin school was kept previous to this date we cannot positively 
 state; it is, however, more than probable that it was in one of the chambers of 
 the brick schoolhouse on Meeting Street. The other chamber, as lias already 
 been stated, was occupied by the oilicers and students of the college. This 
 schoolhouse, as appears from Staples s Annals of Providence, was built during 
 the year 17G8, partly by the town, and partly by subscription. By this compound 
 arrangement the town owned the lower story, while the upper story was owned 
 by the subscribers, among whom the friends and guardians of the college were 
 largely represented. As we have remarked in a previous chapter, this school, 
 commenced by Manning at Warren in 17G4, was for a long time connected with 
 the college or university. In 1810 the corporation erected a brick building for 
 its accommodation, at an expense of fifteen hundred dollars. 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 109 
 
 The following letter, addressed to Mr. Ryland, under 
 date of Nov. 12, 1772, gives an account of the greatest do 
 nation the library had at that time received ; namely, the 
 works of Dr. Gill the distinguished commentator, and fifty- 
 two folio volumes of the Fathers, presented through Dr. 
 Gill s executors. From this letter we also learn the inter 
 esting fact that Manning s salary as President of the col 
 lege was a little less than G8 sterling, or about three 
 hundred and forty dollars. His salary as pastor of the 
 church, according to Morgan Edwards, was 50. Whether 
 this was 50 sterling or lawful money we cannot tell; 
 probably the latter. This would make the sum total of 
 compensation for all his services about five hundred dol 
 lars. 
 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 I have not received an answer to mine of May 19th, 1772, yet am not 
 willing to let this opportunity pass without a line. The Faculty conferred 
 the degree of A.M., at our last Commencement, on your son, the Rev. 
 John Ryland, Jun. ; but through my hurry, and absence from home since 
 Commencement, I have not got his diploma written, and must therefore 
 omit sending it until my next. Those other gentlemen you mentioned 
 did not receive their degrees ; the Faculty chose to know whether they 
 have been consulted personally, and wish to receive the honors of our 
 college ; otherwise it might do us hurt instead of service. What sug 
 gested this reflection, in part, was a paragraph in a letter from Mr. Wallin 
 of London to Mr. Backus, which I saw, in which he seemed to insinuate 
 that we had been too lavish of our honors. If these gentlemen would ac 
 cept diplomas from us, we should give them with pleasure ; but we do not 
 choose to give them to those who would not thank us for them, as I 
 think has been the case with some even on your side of the water. 
 
 With this I send you a catalogue of those who have received the hon 
 ors of the college from the first. Our last Commencement, I believe, ac 
 quired us considerable reputation amongst the literati in New England ; 
 and had we not to combat with the inveterate enmity of the New England 
 clergy, it would have added to the number of our scholars ; but they take 
 
200 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 unwearied pains to prevent any from coming if possible, and do not stick 
 at the method of carrying their points ; but, thank God, they don t govern 
 the world. 
 
 Last month I returned from a journey through the western provinces, 
 as far as Philadelphia. I found religion at an ebb in those churches in 
 general, as is the case through the most of New England. Virginia is still 
 in a flame, and hundreds are hopefully turning to God. I attended the 
 Association at New York, and we had a very comfortable season. I here 
 with send you an Association letter. 
 
 I should be glad to know in what sense you give the five guineas 
 which I have been directed to call upon you for annually. The reason 
 is this : I have always rendered an account of it to the corporation as a 
 part of my salary from the college, which is 67 13s. 4d. sterling, annu 
 ally, and some of the members have found fault with me for so doing, 
 alleging that, as my salary is inadequate, I ought to consider it as a free 
 gift, or so much over the above sum ; but this I would by no means do 
 without an explicit account of your intention in the donation, according 
 to which I shall be governed, and therefore I pray you to resolve me in 
 this matter. 
 
 By the last ship we received the works of the great and good Dr. Gill, 
 with fifty-two folio volumes of the Fathers, etc., the gift of Messrs. George 
 Keith and John Gill, the Doctor s executors. This is by far the greatest 
 donation our little library has yet had ; but I hope their generous example 
 will be followed by others on your side of the Atlantic. Do you think it 
 would be worth while for an American Indian, as we are generally deemed, 
 to visit England, on the errand of collecting some more money for our 
 college ? Eor we really need it. I have been mentioned, if my place in 
 the interim could be supplied, for this purpose, provided the prospect 
 promised anything worth while. But the inattention of the Baptists to 
 their own interests disheartens me greatly. 
 
 I have written tAvo letters to Dr. Stennett since I have had an answer, 
 and I am afraid I have tired that good man with my nonsense, and 
 that my letters have been mislaid or intercepted. Pray, have you heard 
 of the Doctor s being addressed by Dr. Chauncey, of Boston, with a 
 design to alienate him from the cause of the New England Baptists, by 
 sending him reproachful accounts of them ? I was told by one of our 
 brethren this was suspected to be the case, from some extraordinary steps 
 taken by that society. If that should be the case I should be glad to 
 know ; and if you are intimate with the Doctor, you may probably know 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 201 
 
 through him. A minister of reputation gave me this hint but a few days 
 past, or I would not have mentioned it, supposing them incapable of so 
 low an artifice. I am told another l of my first class is to preach on trial 
 next Lord s Day, which will make three of that class in the ministry. 
 With great respect, I am, sir, yours to serve, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 KYLAND S REPLY. 
 
 NORTHAMPTON, Feb. 9, 1773. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 I have enclosed a few hints for your notice and consideration. If they 
 are of any service to you, or to the cause of religion and to your college 
 of learning, I shall be glad. 
 
 I have, in the midst of the cares of a family of about sixty persons, 
 thrown out some thoughts concerning matters before us ; and as you know 
 I bear you a hearty good-will, I am not in any pain how you may re 
 ceive and relish them. If you are that man of sense and honor I con 
 ceive you to be, you will like my blunt friendship better than drivelling 
 flattery and nauseous palaver. ( Verba sit nenia ; for it is not in Dr. Sam. 
 Johnson s Dictionary.) 
 
 I have filled a whole sheet of post-demy paper, so that you have rough 
 and enough. The pamphlets and sheets which accompany this are a 
 present to yourself, unless you think it worth while to put them in your 
 college library, or in the fire, just as you please. 
 
 If you like my mode of correspondence, and take everything in good 
 part, I shall soon hear from you. I am to you, and to the interests of 
 religion and learning under your care, 
 
 A hearty and zealous friend, 
 
 JOHN RYLAND. 
 
 1. In January, 1772, 1 sent a box of twenty -five books to the Rev. Mor 
 gan Edwards, at Philadelphia, by the favor and care of Mr. Daniel Rob- 
 erdean, merchant, who was then in London, and abode at my old lodgings, 
 Mrs. Stephens s, No. 11, in Great St. Hellen s ; and was about to return 
 
 1 The Rev. William Williams. 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 to America. In a letter to Mr. Edwards I desired him to present some 
 of those books to Rhode Island College, but have heard nothing from him, 
 nor have you mentioned one word about the books. 
 
 2. Mr. Wallin had no right to reproach your college as being too lavish 
 of its honors, unless he meant himself, and himself only. 
 
 3. For me to ask any of those gentlemen I nominated in my letter, 
 whether he would please to accept of a degree from your college, would 
 spoil all the honor and delicacy of conferring it. Its coming unsought, yea 
 unthought of, constitutes its chief excellence and acceptableness to men of 
 fine feelings. For my own part, I would not have given you a single 
 farthing, or so much as a thanks, for a feather, if I had it not in my power 
 with the utmost truth to say, "I neither sought it, nor bought it, nor 
 thought for a moment about it " (Dr. Gill s saying on having his diploma 
 from Scotland). 
 
 4. By your withholding these honors from the men I so well knew to 
 deserve them, and not one would have refused them, you have done your 
 college damage in its temporal interests. My design was to serve you by 
 attaching men of grace, learning, property, and influence to you. But if 
 you do not choose it in my way, it shall be let alone ; for I assure you I 
 never will ask one man whilst I live to accept of a degree. 
 
 I could find men enough in Britain that have learning sufficient, who 
 would snap at your honors for the sake of some low ends and purposes ; 
 but their characters as divines, or their capacity or will to serve you, is 
 nothing. In truth, I keep no such company. I form no connection with 
 them, nor will I whilst I live. On the other hand, the Rev. Augustus Top- 
 lady is the first divine of the Established Church, or indeed of any church 
 in England or in Europe. He is a man of fortune, of high genius, and 
 learning. He is my intimate friend; and let me tell you, as a secret, of a 
 mark of his regard for me. He put it to my choice, in case of his death 
 before me, which part of his library I would have, the English, or the 
 Latin and learned part. I chose the latter, and it is accordingly fixed. 
 But I hope I shall never have the pain to accept them. He is a man of a 
 prodigiously high spirit by nature, but tis so tempered and moderated by 
 grace, and a noble and generous disposition, as renders him one of the 
 boldest champions for the sublime truths of the gospel in the world. We 
 have no writer amongst all our divines that comes near to him in energy 
 and grandeur of thought, rich and daring imagination, masculine judg 
 ment, and glowing colors of style. lie is about twenty-nine or thirty 
 years old, but has been educated, from sixteen years of age, in all the grand 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 203 
 
 essentials of the gospel. He had his classical education at Westminster 
 School, and his academical at the University of Dublin ; owing to an es 
 tate falling to his mother in Ireland, and she being obliged to go over and 
 possess it, she took her only .son, at sixteen, with her. Dr. Thos. Leland 
 was his tutor. But he had the good sense and piety to go to the Baptist 
 meeting on Lord s Days to hear an able preacher, now dead, his name 
 Rutherford ; and every year, when Mr. Toplady came over to England, he 
 had the boldness and wisdom to sit under the stated ministry of Dr. Gill. 
 He is a generous friend to Dissenters, especially to us poor Baptists. He 
 commenced A.B. at Dublin. He scorns all honors, unless conferred like 
 grace from heaven, " unthought of, unimplored." 
 
 My other friends are of the same complexion ; therefore I will never ask 
 one of them to accept of a feather from your college. Mr. Isaac Wood 
 man, of Sutton in Leicestershire, is a prince in his spirit and conduct. He 
 is the father of our Midland Association, and a wise counsellor to us all. 
 He has such a degree of modesty that he will not wear the feather you 
 sent him, and wishes not to have it known on this side of the water. But 
 what then ? Has he done you any damage or dishonor ? No. All that 
 know him will revere him as a man of wisdom, benevolence, and learning 
 in the Greek language and philosophy. As to damage, I will tell you. 
 He is a man of substance, and has a fine library ; he has no children ; and 
 you will have half, if not the whole, for your college when he dies. Will 
 this hurt you ? Perhaps some money into the bargain. And thus I should 
 have attached others to your interests ; but you would not let me, in your 
 wisdom. Just as if you knew men here better than I do, who have lived 
 forty years amongst them. As to the five guineas I pay every year, tis 
 for yourself and nobody else. Tis because I like your character, spirit, 
 and principles. If you die, and another succeed you whom I should not 
 approve, I will stop my hand. 
 
 As to raising money by a lottery, I dislike it from the bottom of my 
 heart. Tis a scheme dishonorable to the supreme Head of all worlds 
 and of the true church. We have our fill of these cursed gambling lot 
 teries in London every year. They are big with ten thousand evils. Let 
 the devil s children have them all to themselves. Let us not touch or 
 taste. 
 
 I sent two books to the Rev. Mr. Stillman, at Boston, last summer, by 
 Mr. Story, of Boston. One of the books is a present to the library of your 
 college. It is entitled " An Easy Introduction to Sir Isaac Newton s 
 Philosophy." It was written by one of the clearest and most condescend- 
 
204 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 ing- good-natured philosophers in the world for the use of my school, Mr. 
 James Ferguson, Fellow of the Royal Society. Tis adapted to your 
 school-boys and junior students, to prepare them for larger treatises on the 
 same subjects. I should be glad to find it meet with the approbation of 
 your learned Professor of Philosophy. 
 
 Agreeably to Byland s suggestion, the college the fol 
 lowing year conferred on the Rev. Augustus Toplady the 
 honorary degree of A.M. Mr. Toplacly s works have been 
 published in six octavo volumes, with an account of his 
 life. To the Christian public he is known as the author 
 of "Rock of ages cleft for me," and "Deathless spirit, now 
 arise," regarded by many as two of the finest hymns in the 
 English language. 
 
 TO THE KEV. DR. STENNETT. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Nov. 13, 1772. 
 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 As I have sent two or three letters since receiving one from you, I should 
 not now write, as I have nothing of importance to communicate, had 
 not the Rev. Isaac Backus, of Middleborough, requested me, on the follow 
 ing account: He has been up to Ashficld not long since, and found that 
 the Congregational clergy there, as well as elsewhere, have been very busy 
 in collecting all the scandalous reports they can hear of ; and as they think, 
 from some circumstances, sending them to Dr. Chaunccy, of Boston, in 
 order to transmit the same to you, to prevent you from interesting your 
 self in their cause. I confess this is a suggestion which would seem to 
 flow from a bad heart, destitute of charity, to a person who is acquainted 
 only with the fair side of their character ; but to those who are conversant 
 with them in New England, that they should conceive such a design is 
 far from being a thing incredible. Now if this is the case, I have author 
 ity from Mr. Backus, a man of unblemished reputation, to inform you 
 that, so far as he could judge, from being on the spot and viewing the 
 lands, etc., wrested from those poor Baptists, he verily thought their com 
 plaints were lighter than their grievances, and that their sufferings have 
 been extremely great. And as Mr. Backus is appointed by the body of 
 the Baptists in New England to collect materials for their history, he 
 
1770-1773. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 205 
 
 prays und doubts not but you will, through my hands, favor him with in 
 telligence respecting this matter, by the first opportunity, that he may 
 have it in his power to undeceive you if they have sent you these accounts. 
 The state of the college is much the same as when I wrote last, as to 
 numbers, and still wants powerful friends to patronize and endow it. 
 Messrs. Keith and Gill, the Doctor s executors, by the last ship have sent 
 us a set of the Doctor s works, and fifty-two volumes of the Fathers, etc., 
 which is the greatest donation our little library has yet had. 
 
 I. have visited the western provinces this fall, and find there but dead 
 times in religion, except in Virginia, where God still continues to do won 
 ders amongst the people ; though, as of old, by instruments to the eye of 
 human reason very weak ; But God clothes them with power. I attended 
 the Philadelphia Association, held in New York this year, and was very 
 agreeably entertained with the company of a number of my fellow-servants, 
 who seem zealous to promote the Redeemer s kingdom. One of them, 
 Mr. David Jones, has been the last summer visiting and preaching to the 
 western tribes of Indians between the Ohio and Mississippi ; and, like an 
 apostle amongst the Gentiles, was to set out on the first of this month, at 
 his own charges, to pay his interpreter, and spend the winter among the 
 natives. He says they give car to the gospel, and importuned him to 
 come again. He thinks there is a great prospect of many turning to God 
 amongst them ; and who knows but they may ? I believe it is the first 
 instance of the Baptists going among them for that purpose. The Asso 
 ciation was highly pleased with the accounts he gave, and recommended 
 it to the churches to set on foot a collection for him ; but I fear he must 
 exhaust his own little pittance, notwithstanding what they will do ; for 
 public spirit is a virtue rarely found in this country amongst good people. 
 But lest I weary your patience, I subscribe myself, sir, 
 
 Your friend and servant, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 KEY. ISAAC WOODMAN, TO MANNING. 
 
 THORP (or SUTTON), near LEICESTER, 
 
 Feb. 20, 1773. 
 REVEREND SIR : 
 
 By the favor of Mr. Ryland I have seen the New York Association let 
 ter, and have had some account also of yours to him. I am glad Christ s 
 interest under our denomination has such a respectable footing in your 
 parts, but sorry for the languor of religion in some places, whilst glad tis 
 18 
 
206 M A N N I N G A 3 D CHAP. IV. 
 
 otherwise elsewhere. Amongst other things at the Association, the re 
 spectful notice taken of Mr. Edwards gives me pleasure. 
 
 As I am a Avell-wisher to the prosperity of the college, I would, if I 
 could, advise to anything for its furtherance. If you were to come over, 
 I fear your compass or scope for soliciting visits would be very narrow. 
 There is no reasonable hope of success where congregations are unable to 
 support the interest at home, and where there may be a prejudice against 
 literature : a common but not universal case amongst us. I think it would 
 be in vain to attempt it, unless you have encouragement from London, 
 Bristol, and a few more of our opulent congregations. 
 
 But, whether you come or not, I have long thought that a good printed 
 narrative of the state of the college sent hither, to be disbursed by its 
 friends, would be of service. I doubt not some fruit would spring from 
 such seed scattered by skilful hands. 
 
 You will bo able, I hope, to let us know that our denomination in the 
 Island, and especially the college, is loyal and obedient, disapproving the 
 opposition made to Government in your neighborhood, if public reports 
 of such opposition made, be indeed true. I am for liberty, regularly main 
 tained. 
 
 Should any such narrative be sent, or brought by yourself, it is to be 
 hoped the list of those you have honored with degrees will not be put into 
 every hand, or at least that those who particularly desire it may have their 
 names omitted. I esteem the honors of the college, and am obliged to 
 the Faculty for putting my name amongst your worthies ; pray please to 
 present my grateful compliments ; but I must not own the title. "Pis an 
 honor I cannot support. For your sakes, therefore, as well as for my own, 
 I must decline it. I ought to say, indeed, in favor of my friends, who 
 ever recommended me to your regards, they verily believed, I doubt not, 
 that I was qualified ; and it might have been so had I prosecuted my begin 
 nings ; but an inveterate headache, of above thirty years standing, has dis 
 abled me from making much addition to what I set out with when I left 
 Bristol. I am a hearty friend to your cause. My silence has not been 
 from carelessness or ingratitude, and much less from contempt. I desired 
 Mr. Ryland to make my excuse. I am not able to show the regards I 
 wish to discover; howbeit, I have friendly designs. But the honor you 
 have done me would, if known, us it is not yet in my neighborhood, block 
 up my way to serve you, which I have much at heart to do. 
 
 I congratulate you upon your correspondence with and interest in Mr. 
 Ryland. He is, I may say from long acquaintance with him, a worthy 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 207 
 
 man, and a warm friend of the cause which he espouses. I do not know 
 that you could have one more zealous in your affairs in all Old England. 
 With sincere and hearty wishes that the honorable and important institu 
 tion over which you preside may have its worthy ends answered in the 
 furtherance of knowledge, virtue, and true religion, and yourself be greatly 
 helped and blessed with all needful assistance in the good work of form 
 ing the minds of youth, I rest, esteemed and dear sir, 
 
 Yours, affectionately, 
 
 ISAAC WOODMAN. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Nov. 26, 1773. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 Yours of Feb. 20th, 1773, came to hand last week, in company with 
 several others, agreeable letters from friends in England, to whom I write 
 by this opportunity. I am heartily glad to hear your favorable disposi 
 tion towards the college, and oould heartily concur with you in your 
 wishes for greater abilities to serve its interests ; though we have for our 
 encouragement the commendation of the poor widow r s contribution. I 
 should think it a prodigy if all you English Baptists Avere friends to lit 
 erature, while the case is so far otherwise in America. But I think your 
 good, zealous people are mistaken in striking against it, when kept in its 
 proper place, I mean in making it an handmaid to religion. 
 
 I am sorry you are so scrupulous in point of confessing the honor we 
 meant to confer on you, though you must be a better judge of the expedi 
 ency of this, in your situation, than I can possibly be. But the infant 
 state of literature in this new world, and the usages of the college here, 
 lead us to conclude, from your known character, that you need not be so 
 diffident of your abilities as to decline the feather, as our common friend 
 Mr. Ryland calls it. 
 
 The history of the rise, present state, etc , of the college, will be done 
 in some manner, and sent to England next spring, unless Providence 
 should prevent it ; but I wish it could be done by an abler hand, or that 
 I had more leisure than my present circumstances will afford for it. I 
 know how to sympathize with you in your inveterate complaint (of the 
 headache) ; for, while I write, I am distressed witli this pain. 
 
 I highly prize Mr. Ryland s friendship, because I have found him a 
 friend indeed. I revere. his character, and place the highest confidence in. 
 
208 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 him. The very small number of friends and the great number of enemies 
 the college has, requires the greater exertion of the few friends of which it 
 can boast, in its favor. I hope to sec it on a more respectable footing, 
 should I live to an advanced age ; and if not, I hope posterity will reap 
 great advantages from it. With the most hearty wishes for your highest 
 welfare, I am, 
 
 Your friend and servant in the gospel, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 N. B. I hope those who know the little Colony of Rhode Island, and 
 especially the Baptist society in it, will find that, though firm in the 
 cause of constitutional liberty, we are as loyal subjects as any of which 
 his Majesty King George can boast. I wish I could tell you more agree 
 able news of the state of religion among us, but it is indeed a dark day. 
 Enclosed I send you a form of bequeathment, which we make use of this 
 way. At Newport I find one of which I had no knowledge before. 
 
 J. M. 
 
 Concerning Mr. Woodman, and his suggestion in regard 
 to a narrative of the college, Mr. Ryland, under date of 
 Feb. 9, 1773, thus writes to Manning : 
 
 " My good father in the ministry, and counsellor, Mr. Isaac Woodman, 
 is earnestly desirous (and with him I concur) to hear from you. A clear 
 narration of the rise, progress, and present state of the college at Rhode 
 Island, with an account of the methods of education in the languages, sci 
 ences, and divinity ; the exercises of the students, and the character of 
 those who have distinguished themselves by their diligence, improvement, 
 and piety, this we think to reprint and disperse through all England 
 amongst our best and richest friends of all denominations, in order to so 
 licit subscriptions arid donations. Had you done this already, and sent 
 about twenty honors to the men I named, a way would have been paved 
 for your coming over and making your appearance and personal applica 
 tions this next summer. But for want of these two preliminaries, you 
 have prevented yourself from coming with a good prospect of success for 
 this year. If you will take our advice, and put it in our power to serve 
 you by conciliating men s esteem and affection to your person and col 
 lege, perhaps we can pave the way for you by next May come twelve 
 month, 1774 ; and may do Rhode Island some service." 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 209 
 
 The following playful letter to his intimate friend, the 
 Rev. Hezekiah Smith, shows that Dr. Manning could be 
 merry, as well as serious. Indeed, he was noted above 
 most men for his genial companionship and rare social 
 
 qualities. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, May 5, 1773. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 This is to give you the reason why I did not visit you at Haverhill, 
 and invite you to come to Providence. I set out from Providence, in- 
 tending to spend a week at Boston and Haverhill. We (for Mrs. Manning 
 accompanied me) arrived at Boston Friday evening, and proposed to set 
 out for Haverhill on Monday ; but that and several succeeding days 
 proving rainy, and Mrs. Manning being very poorly, to our very great dis 
 appointment, mortification, etc., we were obliged to return to Providence 
 without going further. Now, therefore, as I am tied to college, pray take 
 Mrs. Smith, and the heir apparent, 1 and the neAV chaise, and come and 
 take your station for a week or two on the hill of Providence, where I 
 will insure you excellent good water, the best my house affords, and our 
 good company. Pray, what more would you have ? If anything in my 
 power to render the visit still more agreeable, depend on it, you shaVt be 
 
 wanting it. 
 
 I have made a tour into the hither parts of Connecticut this vacation, 
 and preached fifteen times in fourteen days ; seven of them in Presbyterian 
 meeting-houses. What do you think of that ? See what it is to be cath 
 olic like me, while you, with brandishing weapons, take the field of Mars 
 like an old veteran that scorns to let his sword rust. Good success to you, 
 if you must draw. I have received a packet from England, and our good 
 friend Rev. John Ryland is angry enough because we did not give degrees 
 to the gentlemen he recommended, and says that we have lost by it greatly. 
 How happens it that not one scholar, through your influence, comes from 
 you to our college I? fear you don t exert yourself. We have no late 
 news from the westward. Friends here are generally well, and very de 
 sirous to see and hear Mr. Smith, as are your good friends at New London. 
 Mrs. Manning joins in love to you and Mrs. Smith, as, also, to all our 
 good friends at Haverhill, with, dear sir, 
 
 Your unworthy brother, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 i Their infant son, born March 12, 1772. 
 18* 
 
210 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 Dr. Manning now begins a correspondence with the 
 Rev. Benjamin Wallin, a prominent Baptist minister of 
 London, and a gentleman of reputed wealth. He was 
 also a religious writer of some note. " The Christian Life 
 Described," " Discourses on various subjects," " Parable of 
 the Prodigal Son," " Evangelical Hymns and Songs," and 
 various other works by him are to be found upon the 
 shelves of the college library, a gift from the author. Un 
 der date of May 18, 1773, Manning thus writes: 
 
 DEAR BROTHER : 
 
 From Mr. Philip Freeman, of Boston, I received your agreeable pres 
 ent, on the third inst., and having perused with much satisfaction the 
 several pieces, especially the Tribulation, I am rejoiced to find that it is 
 not "another gospel/ Had I capacity, to which I make no preten 
 sions, to examine Mr. Wallin s productions with the eye of a critic, I feel 
 no disposition, be assured, to do it. I import annually a few books from 
 London, principally for the youth under my care, and should have sent 
 for some of your publications ; but as Mr. Backus has them by him, I have 
 thus far deferred doing this, not wishing to interfere in any way with him. 
 I should be glad to know whether you designed the books as a present to 
 me personally, or to the college library, that I may return you thanks in a 
 proper manner. In cither case I am greatly obliged, and heartily thank 
 you therefor. 
 
 The executors of Dr. Gill have followed the laudable example of Dr. 
 Stennett, and made us a present of his works, which we deem a most val 
 uable donation. These acts encourage us to hope for similar favors from 
 our friends in Europe. Should any benevolent person be disposed to 
 make a useful donation to our library and at a loss to know what books 
 to choose, allow me to suggest the works of good Mr. Bunyan, than which 
 none would be more acceptable. 
 
 Mr. Edwards has been your substitute for the gentlemen as desired. 
 Through Messrs. Stillman and Backus I learn that the Lord has visited 
 you sorely in the loss of your only daughter. But you need not be told 
 by me that God is a portion infinitely preferable to that of sons or daugh 
 ters. I doubt not but you find already a strong attachment to this earth 
 broken, and that God leads by the right way. The discipline of the rod 
 is often necessary, at least to such perverse hearts as mine. 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 211 
 
 Mr. Backus informs me that he has lately written to you, thus remov 
 ing the necessity of my giving you a recital of affairs amongst us, or of 
 detaining you longer than to crave your indulgence for obtruding upon 
 you this letter, which assures you, dear sir, of the unfeigned affection of 
 your unseen but very much obliged 
 
 Friend and servant, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 P. S. This day received letters from several of the western provinces. 
 Tind that religion is at a low ebb in general there, as, alas, it is too gener 
 ally amongst us. If business would permit, should rejoice to see a line 
 from Mr. Wallin, by our fall ships. 
 
 Mr. Wallin s reply is so excellent in spirit, that no apol 
 ogy need be offered for its introduction into our present 
 work : 
 
 LONDON, July 30, 1773. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 Your respectful lines by Mr. Keith very much obliged me ; nor am I less 
 indebted to your candor in perusing my endeavors, being sensible that 
 they will not bear the eye of a critic. The disadvantages under which I 
 was at length brought into a service, conscientiously declined in the very 
 early part of my life, in consequence of which I deprived myself of an in 
 tended more liberal education, might plead some excuse ; and were you to 
 know by what solicitation and management I was prevailed on to repeat 
 my visits to the press, you would rather pity than blame me, and cover 
 my numerous defects with a mantle of love. 
 
 I thought it a venture to possess one of your character with such feeble 
 and imperfect attempts, they are at best only fit for children in Chris 
 tianity, how, then, could I think of proposing them to the most infant 
 seminary of learning ? Indeed, sir, they were intended only as an in 
 stance of respect to yourself, to be glanced at with the friendly disposition 
 you express. It would have impeached your last, had not the ingenibus 
 discourses of my much esteemed brother, the Rev. Dr. Stennett, been uni 
 versally admired among you. As to the works of that great man, the 
 late Dr. Gill, who was truly a father, they may justly be accounted a con 
 siderable acquisition. I know not, upon the whole, an author more judi 
 cious and consistent. The compass of his writing is astonishing, from 
 
212 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 the labors of which he now rests until the Chief Shepherd comes, when it 
 will appear that our endeavors for his name shall not be in vain. 
 
 But seeing you intimate that it may not be unacceptable, I presume, 
 though with some reluctance, to send all I can collect of my publications, 
 which together make ten little volumes, and possibly five entire pieces, 
 and five of sermons, addresses, etc. Also the ordination of Rev. A. Booth, 
 who sends a volume of the sermons of his predecessor, the late Mr. Wil 
 son, and his own "Reign of Grace," etc. These will not be the less 
 welcome for being accompanied by all the works of Mr. Bunyan, agree 
 ably to your suggestion. These I present, with my most respectful com 
 pliments, to every member of the college, including their worthy President 
 the Rev. Mr. James Manning. Have you, sir, any stated form of be- 
 queathment ? If not, permit me to move for a concise account of your 
 institution, with a direction how to describe you in a will. Such a paper, 
 neatly printed and disposed, may be useful. Be not sparing of copies to 
 your friends. The difference in point of expense between one or two 
 thousand is but trifling. 
 
 As to my own works, most of them have been out of print for some 
 years. They are chiefly practical, and all very plain. The hymns, more 
 especially, need an apology. They are no other than artless compositions, 
 in which the substance of occasional discourses was drawn up in a suit 
 able form. Such a one did not occur in our stated collection. At the 
 time, they were sung with peculiar satisfaction, the people being unac 
 quainted with the author ; but at length many of them were stolen and 
 mangled, which induced me, at the instance of some, to print them, and 
 so obviate any apprehension of a conceit that they were deserving of pub 
 lic notice. It is my study, both in preaching and in writing, to lead to 
 those inexhaustible treasures of wisdom and comfort, the Holy Scriptures ; 
 hence the tone of my naked lines. I must observe further, that in order 
 to make up the set, I was obliged to put in a volume containing my 
 sermon on the experience of the saints, which was bound up in another. 
 You will therefore excuse a duplicate of them. 
 
 It is long since I have heard from my very worthy and agreeable corre 
 spondent the Rev. Mr. Backus. He usually much entertains me. I have 
 often rejoiced at his accounts of the success of the gospel in your world, 
 and am sorry to hear that at present in general it seems rather low. May 
 the Lord of Jacob revisit it . Two things are threatening with us, the 
 growth of Anti-Trinitarians, in a variety of forms, for they cannot agree ; 
 nor can I forbear to say that I think a dereliction of, or indifference to the 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 213 
 
 divine Sonship of our glorious Redeemer, has greatly contributed to the 
 insolence of men against that foundation of the gospel. The other is a 
 popular ignorance of the authority of Christ, in particular church fellow 
 ship, which some are bold enough to put on the footing of prudence and 
 convenience among the disciples of Jesus. The one strikes at the doc 
 trine, the other at the discipline of the gospel. But Zion is insured 
 against the gates of hell. 
 
 I am now in the eve of my ministry and life ; childless, and in a manner 
 destitute of natural relation, having lost an excellent wife, two sons, and 
 three daughters. It is good to be weaned from an undue attachment to 
 the present state, but afflictions alone will not do it. My heavenly Father 
 has been very gracious in helping me, I trust, to receive not only good at 
 his hand, but also evil. He has given me a name and a place in his 
 house better than that of sons or of daughters, and some spiritual children 
 who are exceeding affectionate and dutiful. 
 
 May your valuable life be long spared, and all your instructions suc 
 ceed to the advantage of mankind, and especially to the spread of the 
 truth and the prosperity of Jerusalem. I remain, reverend and dear sir, 
 Your obliged and truly affectionate brother, 
 
 BENJAMIN WALJLLN. 
 
 TO THE EEV. JOHN KYIJLND. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, May 20th, 1773. 
 AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 Yours of Feb. 9th, 1773, came safely to hand, by the Charlotte, Capt. 
 Jno. Rogers, about the 20th of April, containing your agreeable present 
 of pieces, letters, etc., for all of which I scarce need tell you I heartily 
 thank you. You need not for the future hesitate about sending anything 
 to me in that way, or writing with the utmost plainness to one who be 
 lieves not in the use of ceremony, even if he were master of it. To con 
 vince you that I am entirely suited with your plain dealing, I have 
 embraced the earliest opportunity of returning an answer. 
 
 Your friendship to the interests of the college and religion here is very 
 cordially accepted by many besides myself ; and though you thought we 
 slighted your friendship, I can assure you it was not so meant ; I shall 
 be glad to gratify you, and testify our respect for any of your friends, on 
 every occasion. But I come to particulars. 
 
214 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 The books ordered here from Mr. Edwards have not come ; neither 
 have I heard of them, except by your letter, though I saw Mr. Edwards 
 at Philadelphia last October. He must surely have forgotten it entirely. 
 
 I have seen Mr. Backus since I received yours, and he thinks I mis 
 took Mr. Wallin s meaning, and that he intended only himself. If so, I 
 am sorry I mentioned anything of the matter. Indeed, Mr. Wallin, in 
 his last letter, which I Ifave seen, intimated as much. 
 
 I entirely agree with you respecting academical honors, and the mode 
 of conferring them on gentlemen of taste ; and as you are fully satisfied 
 that the gentlemen mentioned would cordially accept them, you may be 
 assured we shall take proper care of that matter next Commencement, and 
 forward the diplomas as soon as possible. If we have been tardy, I know 
 you will forgive us. An unforgiving friend is not worth having. Such I 
 do not deem my very good friend Mr. Ryland. I am heartily sorry that 
 the college should sustain damage, through what we meant only for precau 
 tion, and hope, if so, that it will be only temporary. We beg you not to 
 remit an iota of your zeal in attaching gentlemen of grace and learning, 
 property and influence, to the college. For amongst all our good friends 
 in Britain, we consider your opportunities in this way, together with your 
 zeal, as placing you foremost. 
 
 The character of the Rev. Mr. Toplady, which you have enlarged upon, 
 is truly a rare one, and I shall think the college highly honored in his 
 accepting a feather, and indeed in the least expression of his friendship. 
 
 I am sorry to hear that pious Mr. Woodman is so exceedingly modest 
 as not to choose to wear his feather ; but am glad to hear such a worthy 
 character of him, and that he is so well disposed towards the college as 
 to think of providing for it. May the Lord possess many others with the 
 same spirit ! I hope you may have it in your power to put many more 
 in the way of leaving us some love tokens, when they are better employed 
 than in enjoying terrestrial goods. This is what I have hoped for, though 
 hitherto I have not seen cause to expect much from it soon. 
 
 I am much obliged to you for the annual contribution of five guineas. 
 I have made free to draw a bill for them in favor of Mr. Geo. Keith, of 
 London, hoping that the Lord may enable me to conduct worthy the gos 
 pel, so that you may not repent the donation. 
 
 Your opinion of lotteries coincides with mine ; but some of our friends 
 urged me to mention the subject, as they could not see a prospect of sup 
 plies in any other way. Besides, I believe there have not been such in- 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 215 
 
 iquitous methods used in this matter, with us, as in the State lotteries at 
 home. They have been used to promote good designs. 
 
 The book from Mr. Stillman we have received, though lately, as Mr. 
 Story did not do his errand to Mr. Stillman faithfully. 
 
 I have written to Mr. Edwards respecting the books in his hands, and 
 expect an answer soon. Perhaps you may meet this in London. If so you 
 need not mention the hint relative to Dr. Chauncey ; for I believe he has 
 not yet forwarded anything of that nature. 
 
 To give you a full detail of facts and instances of the ill-will of persons 
 to the college 1 would require "centum ora etferrea vox," as sung the poet. 
 Dr. Stiles, of Newport, gave as a reason to the corporation for not accept 
 ing a place in the Faculty, the offense he should give his brethren should 
 he accept it. The manner of obtaining the charter, has, by the clergy of 
 the Congregational society, been represented as highly iniquitous. (But 
 the particulars of this affair you shall have as soon as the college history 
 can be completed and sent to you, together with other particulars which 
 you request.) Those gentlemen of that denomination who have spoken 
 favorably of the institution have been reprimanded, as I have been cred 
 ibly informed, and that by a convention, for showing us so much counte 
 nance as to attend the Commencement. I was lately told by a worthy 
 minister of that order in Connecticut, that one of the same order in this 
 town, a sour man, had done the college amazing damage by representing 
 us as bigots, and our sole design to be that of proselyting to the Baptist 
 sentiments ; and that if they sent their children here they never could get 
 into any employment in that Government ; so that he had it not in his power 
 to send us the scholars to whom he taught grammar, though he chose it. 
 The same zeal has been used in the neighboring provinces, both by him 
 and others ; and both parents and tutors have repeatedly told me that ev 
 erything except violence has been used, and almost that in some instan 
 ces, to prevent them from sending their children here. Some of them 
 have boasted that they have prevented persons from coming who de 
 signed it ; and few scholars come but say every obstacle has been laid in 
 their way to prevent them. The characters of the teachers, their abilities, 
 and the character of the place even, have been aspersed to the highest de- 
 
 i Jfr. By Ian d, in a letter to Manning, under date of Feb. 9, 1778, thus writes: 
 "I wish you would give me a full detail of facts and instances of the ill-will of 
 
 men to your seminary. I would make use of them for its benefit and advantage, 
 
 without hurtiu? YOU in the least. 
 
21G MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 gree for the same purpose. But I should tire you to recite a small part 
 of our ill-treatment. They know that the low state of the college fund 
 requires considerable tuition money to support the teachers, and that 
 that depends on the number of scholars. If, therefore, they can prevent 
 them from coming, they know they distress us. But, notwithstanding what 
 I have said of our enemies, there are many valuable men in that society 
 in these parts, some of whom are friendly to the college ; but through 
 their connections, or want of ability, few of them have it in their power 
 to express their friendship. 
 
 You may expect a particular account of our mode of education, and 
 of the students, their characters, proficiency, piety, etc., when we send 
 you an account of the rise, progress, and present state of the college, 
 which I intend to draw up as soon as I can, and forward it by the first 
 opportunity. Our number of scholars is thirty, and amongst them are 
 many pious, promising young men. Take them together, they are a set of 
 well-behaved boys. I have a Latin school under my care, taught by one 
 of our graduates, of about twenty boys. Amongst those who have left ITS 
 are three eminent Baptist ministers, their age considered, and another 
 just entered on the work, who, I am told, promises as fair as any of the 
 others ; one attoniey-at-law, the most eminent at the bar of any in this 
 colony, etc., etc. 
 
 I thank you for the list of ministers of the Church of England, and 
 shall be glad to see that of the Calvinist Baptist ministers. 
 
 "What treatise upon fluxions do you deem the best ? The state of reli 
 gion is generally at a low ebb amongst us. May the Lord revive it ! 
 "Would your English people be scared at an American Indian ? I remain, 
 dear sir, your unworthy friend and brother in the gospel, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 MEMORANDA AND HINTS FOE 
 PROF. MANNING, AT EIIODE ISLAND. 
 
 [No date. Probably August, 1773.] 
 
 1, The Calvinistical Baptist ministers in England and Wales are about 
 two hundred ; but I have given away my printed lists, and forgot to ask 
 Mr. "Wallin for some more. Be so good as to mention it to him. 
 
 2. I cannot yet procure a complete list of the Independent ministers 
 and churches, You know there are about thirty-two in London, and \ve 
 have twelve or fourteen in Northampton. 
 
1770-1773. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 217 
 
 3. I suppose you know that it was Dr. Stennett that procured an order 
 from Government to put a stop to the oppression of the Baptists near 
 Boston. I have not a perfect idea of that affair. 
 
 4. Two young men, of good parts and sound knowledge of the learned 
 languages, and men of eloquence and piety, are lately come into the min 
 istry from Mr. Evan s academy in Bristol ; namely, Mr. Biggs, just going 
 to be ordained over the Baptist church at Wantage, in Berkshire, and 
 Mr. Dtinscombe, at Coat in Oxfordshire, whose ordination is to be at the 
 same time. You will do well to mark them down as men of uncommon 
 merit, worthy of your feathers in a year. 
 
 5. The sooner you send over a clear, short, printed account of your 
 college, in its rise and present state, the better. I beg you would pay due 
 and equal attention to our leading men, in presenting each with a copy, 
 that no jealousy or pique against you may arise. You know our chief 
 ministers. We have about thirty or forty that can read Greek. Let not 
 one be forgot. If you know not all of them, I will inform you, or take 
 the trouble of giving them a copy in your name. 
 
 6. As to your visit to old England, I shall be glad to see you, and will 
 do you all the service I can ; but I wish you to attach some more of our 
 ministers to your interest by your pretty baubles first, and also let your 
 account of the college come six months before you. 
 
 7. As to your worthy Mathematical Professor, I wish him all possible 
 success ; but I must not presume to assist or direct him with respect to the 
 best book on fluxions. The students at our Cambridge use chiefly an 
 abridgment of Sanderson s Algebra, an octavo, price six shillings ; and 
 then we have such a number of books on fluxions, so good that tis hard 
 to say which is the best. There are four of great note ; namely, Maclau- 
 rin, Ditton, Thomas Simpson, and Emerson last of all, who is now liv 
 ing. He has published a noble course of mathematical learning, in about 
 ten or twelve octavo volumes. He is an amazing genius in the north of 
 England. His Mechanics, quarto, fourteen shillings, and Astronomy, 
 octavo, six shillings, I have in my study. But the lovely humane philos 
 opher, and my intimate friend, is James Ferguson, F. R. S. He has just 
 now assisted me to complete my optical cards, which are engraving on 
 copper plates. You will, I hope, approve of them, as the easiest introduc 
 tion to optics ever seen in the world. By the way, Ferguson drew up the 
 book you have in your hands with my name to it ; for I could not per 
 suade him to put his own, for fear of appearing ungrateful to Andrew 
 Miller, bookseller, who had been his friend in a time of need. 
 
 19 
 
218 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 CALVINISTIC BAPTIST MINISTERS IN ENGLAND WHO CAN READ 
 THE GREEK TESTAMENT, ETC. 
 
 1. SAMUEL STENNETT, D.D., 
 
 2. BENJAMIN WALLIN, 
 
 London. 
 
 3. WILLIAM CLARK, 
 
 4. JOHN REYNOLDS, 
 
 5. ABRAHAM BOOTH, 
 
 6. DR. GIFFORD, 
 
 1. HUGH EVANS, } 
 
 2. CALEB EVANS, L Bristol. 
 
 3. MR. NEWTON, 
 
 1. BENJAMIM BEDDOME, Bourton, on the water, Gloucester. 
 
 2. JOHN ASH, Pershore, Worcestershire. 
 
 3. JOSHUA SYMMONDS, of Bedford, who has lately altered his senti 
 ments from a Pedobaptist, and honestly is come into and submitted 
 to believer s baptism ; for which he is abhorred and despised by the 
 Independent ministers. Give him your best honors. 
 
 4. DANIEL TURNER, Abingdon, Berkshire. 
 
 5. MR. ROBINSON, of Cambridge. 
 
 6. PHILIP GIBBS, of Plymouth. 
 
 7. MORGAN JONES, of Hampstead, Hertfordshire. 
 
 8. SAMUEL JAMES, of Hitchin, Hertfordshire. Now dying. 
 
 9. ISAAC WOODMAN, of Leicestershire. 
 
 10. JOHN BROWN, of Kettering, Northamptonshire. 
 
 11. BIGGS and DUNSCOMBE ; excellent scholars. 
 
 12. ROBERT DAY, Wellington, Somersetshire. 
 
 13. BENJAMIN FULLER, Devizes. 
 
 14. JOHN POYNTING, Worcester. 
 
 15. JOHN OULTON, of Rawden in Yorkshire. 
 
 16. JOHN FAWCETT, of Wainsgate, Yorkshire ; now keeps a seminary. 
 
 17. JOSEPH JENKINS. 
 
 18. BENJAMIN DAVIES, in Wales, keeps an academy at Abergavemry, 
 about ten pupils. Give him a feather. 
 
 19. MR. JOHN RIPPON, at Dr. Gill s meeting-house. 
 
 20. RYLAND, Sen. 
 
 21. RYLAND, Jun. 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 219 
 
 President Manning, in his official relations, was not alto 
 gether unmindful of the wise man s injunction touching 
 the rod. " John " to whom Mr. Hart refers below, was now, 
 it seems, a Freshman in college. He had probably been 
 one of Manning s grammar-school pupils. Whether he 
 profited by the "discipline," we cannot say. As his name, 
 however, appears among the graduates four years later, it 
 is reasonable to draw the most favorable inferences. 
 
 CHARLESTON, Nov. 5th, 1773. 
 DEAR MR. PRESIDENT : 
 
 I have hardly time to say, yours of the 6th Sept., ult, came to hand 
 two days ago. I am now preparing for a journey into Georgia, very 
 high up, in order to assist my good Brother Pelot in constituting a Baptist 
 church. The Lord has greatly owned the labors of our young Botfford ; 
 many are converted, baptized, and are now waiting for the enjoyment of 
 church privileges. This intelligence, I know, will be agreeable to you ; 
 more so than the account you gave of my sad boy was to me. I am sorry 
 John has conducted so as to give you so much trouble, and to forfeit the 
 place he had under the management of Mrs. Manning. Had I been ap 
 prised of his unworthy conduct sooner, perhaps I should have remanded 
 him back to Carolina ; for I am not in such affluent circumstances as to 
 throw away money in the education of one who has no view to his own 
 advantage. I thank you, however, for all the pains you have taken with 
 him, and that you have made trial of the discipline of the rod. Let me 
 entreat you unweariedly to exert your best endeavors for his advantage. 
 Who knows but God may give him a turn 1 I should be sorry he should 
 return a worthless blockhead. When I return from my Georgia route, 
 which will take me near a month, I shall use my utmost endeavors to 
 remit you some more guineas. I have enough due me if I could collect 
 it ; but cash was never so scarce in Carolina as at present. This is an 
 unfavorable circumstance, both for you and for me. 
 
 I should be glad to see an account of your late Commencement in print. 
 Pray, how goes on the great man of Haverhill ? I have heard nothing 
 from him for a great while past ; and I hear almost as little about Mr. 
 Stillman, or our affairs in Boston. How is Mr. Davis s place supplied ? 
 Has that church any minister ? 
 
220 MANNING AND CHAP. IV. 
 
 Could you not prevail on John to write to me ? I have received but 
 one letter from him for the space of twelve months past, although I have 
 sharply reproved him for his neglect, over and over again. "With kind 
 love to Mrs. Manning, I remain, 
 
 Yours, with much esteem, 
 
 OLIVER HART. 
 
 TO THE EEV. JOHN EYLAND. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Nov. 25, 1773. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 Yours by Capt. Shand I received last week. I am obliged to you for 
 the number of Calvinist Baptist ministers in England and Wales, and for 
 information where I may procure a complete list of Independent ministers. 
 
 I did not know before that it was Dr. Stennett who procured the repeal 
 of the Ashficld law against the Baptists. I rejoice at the addition of 
 Messrs. Biggs and Dunscombe to the number of laboi-ers in the vineyard 
 of our Lord. I shall remember and do honor to such worthy characters. 
 
 I expect we shall be able to send over a printed account of the college 
 the next spring, together with diplomas to those in England who were 
 graduated the last fall. The reason of our being so tardy in this matter is, 
 the corporation, at their last meeting, ordered us to revise the form of our 
 diplomas, and send it to England to be engraved in copper plate, and 
 procure a quantity of good parchment, as we had none here fit to send 
 abroad. Should you happen in London on the receipt of this, I should 
 be glad to have you inspect the draught and design, and prescribe the 
 best form of the plate, hands, etc. 
 
 I shall pay duo attention to the literary gentlemen you mentioned, 
 when the account of the college is sent over, and am obliged to you for 
 your proffered kindness in distributing them. This I shall expect. 
 
 I know not whether I shall ever have the pleasure of seeing your face in 
 the flesh ; should my life be spared, though, it would be very agreeable. 
 However, we shall omit nothing which is judged agreeable or necessary 
 to pave the way for some future personal solicitation in favor of our col 
 lege in England, should it be thought expedient. Am obliged to you for 
 the account of books on fluxions and your optical card. I doubt not I 
 shall approve of it when favored with a sight. 
 
 In company with yours I received a letter from that venerable man, 
 Rev. Isaac Woodman, together with another testimony of his good-will 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 221 
 
 towards us. He writes like an experienced, modest father. This letter I 
 must answer, though I am greatly paralyzed with a crowd of business, and 
 cannot do it as I would be glad to do. Also Rev. Benjamin Wallin, of 
 London, sent me an agreeable letter, accompanied with all he has published, 
 in ten volumes, neatly bound and gilt, with the most valuable works of 
 John Bunyan, in six volumes, the Reign of Grace, by "William Booth 
 and Wilson s Sermons, all for the college library. These I esteem 
 valuable presents. 
 
 Enclosed I send you the Minutes of the Association at Philadelphia, 
 and that called the Warren Association, in New England. 
 
 The last vacation I spent in riding three hundred and fifty miles, and 
 preaching twenty-five times, to a number of our little Baptist churches and 
 societies in New England ; many of which I never had visited before. 
 Was cordially received, and importuned to repeat my visit as soon as 
 might be. In general found religion to wear a promising aspect ; but in 
 many places they met with a great interruption from the Establishment 
 in New England. I wonder how men by human laws can establish a re 
 ligion, and then have the effrontery to call it Christ s kingdom ! 
 
 I should have sent to you before this for a number of your books, but 
 understood you had sent some of them to Mr. Edwards, directed to me, 
 which I have not seen. With my best wishes for your welfare, I am, sir, 
 Your unworthy brother in the gospel, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 P. S. I have seen Rev. Augustus Toplady s Treatise on Predestina 
 tion, with his letter to Rev. Jno. Wesley, and deem them masterly per 
 formances, answering well the character you gave him. 
 
 TO THE REV. BENJAMIN WALLIN. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Nov. 25th, 1773. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR Sin : 
 
 Yours of July 30th, by Capt. Shand, together with the box of books, 
 came safe to hand last week ; for which I return you many thanks, as 
 well in the name of the corporation of our college as in my own. I have 
 not had leisure to peruse many of the pieces, since their arrival, but from 
 my prepossession in favor of the author, and from what I have read of his 
 works, I am confident they will be highly agreeable ; so that you might 
 have spared everything said by way of apology for them on that account. 
 19* 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. TV. 
 
 I arn, however, greatly obliged to you for the information you give con 
 cerning your entering the ministry, your age, situation in the world and 
 in the church of God. etc., etc. Your present of the venerable Bunyan s 
 works were not the less welcome for being accompanied with the agree 
 able present from the Rev. Abraham Booth, of his Reign of Grace, and 
 of Mr. Wilson s Sermons. I must trouble him with a letter too. 
 
 We expect next spring to send over a printed account of the rise and 
 present state of the college, in which we shall give an account of the man 
 ner of donations to the college by wills ; but lest that should come too 
 late, I here send the name by which it is known in law, and bv which it is 
 to hold donations, until some more distinguished benefactor shall give it a 
 new one, for which the corporation have liberty in the charter. 
 
 " Item. I give to the the Trustees and Fellows of the College or Uni 
 versity in the English Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Planta 
 tions, in New England in America, the sum of ." 
 
 The Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts, last year 
 or the year before, prescribed a form of bequeathment to them, in which 
 they say : " To be raised and paid by, and out of my ready money, plate, 
 goods, and personal effects, which, by law, I may or can charge with the 
 payment of the same ; and not out of any part of my lands, tenements, or 
 hereditaments, and to be applied towards/ 5 etc. The particular design 
 must be expressed, or it must be left to them to dispose of as they shall 
 think proper. I suppose the statute of Mortmane, or that of 9th of George 
 II., made this precaution necessary. But as our friends in Great Britain 
 will be always able to advise with those who are skilled in these matters, 
 they will doubtless put it out of the power of any to defeat their benevolent 
 intentions, after they are gone to the eternal world. Pardon my being so 
 particular on this point : the loss of sundry donations to the society above 
 mentioned, published in their extracts, suggested the thought. 
 
 When our account of the college comes, we shall not be sparing in 
 numbers to be distributed, as our friends judge proper. 
 
 I wonder that Mr. Backus is behindhand with you, as he is not com 
 monly tardy in this way. He is an excellent man, and though unfur 
 nished with the knowledge of letters, has been an eminent instrument in 
 the hando of God to spread the truth in this country, as well by his publi 
 cations as by his preaching. He has lately published an appeal to the 
 public in favor of the Baptist society in New England ; and lie is now 
 collecting materials for the history of the Baptists. I will forward Mr. 
 Edwards s list by the first safe conveyance. 
 
1770-1773. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 Your information of the low state of religion amongst us is but loo 
 true ! May the Lord in mercy visit us. I travelled this fall about three 
 hundred and fifty miles, and visited many of the Baptist churches. In 
 several places there were, I thought, evident marks of the power of God 
 attending gospel means. While on that journey I baptized four persons. 
 I am sorry to hear of the decline of vital godliness in old England, and of 
 the prevalence of Anti-Trinitarianism, or, if you please, infidelity. I be 
 lieve no arguments will effectually refute that, in men of corrupt minds, 
 short of the power of divine grace, for a day of which I need not solicit 
 you to help with your prayers. 
 
 I am glad to hear you express that happy degree of resignation to the 
 will of God in your bereaved, afflicted state. Oh that blessed word! 
 " Our light afflictions," etc. May God grant you an experience of its 
 full import, make your last days your best, and late, very late, call you 
 home from earthly labors to mansions of glory. This is the sincere 
 
 prayer of 
 
 Your most unworthy brother in the gospel, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 We close this chapter with a letter to the Rev. Abra 
 ham Booth, of London, proposing an "exchange of some 
 letters." Mr. Booth was an eminent Baptist minister in 
 his day, and an author of no little celebrity. His " Reign 
 of Grace," "Pedobaptisrn Examined," "Apology for the 
 Baptists," "Essay on the Kingdom of Christ," and numer 
 ous other religious and polemical writings, may be found 
 upon the shelves of the college library. Most of them were 
 republished in 1813, in three octavo volumes, with a me 
 moir of the author. An account of him, compiled from this 
 memoir, is given in Rose s General Biographical Dictionary. 
 
 NEWPORT, Nov. 26, 1773. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 The last week brought your agreeable present of the Reign of Grace, 
 and the Rev. Mr. Wilson s Sermons, a present to our college library ; for 
 which the corporation have ordered me, in their name, to return you their 
 thanks : an agreeable task, as it not only gives me an opportunity of ex- 
 
224 MANNING AND BROWN UNIVERSITY. CHAP. IV. 
 
 pressing my gratitude for the donation, but opens a door for me to ad 
 dress a gentleman and brother in Christ whose character has often been 
 represented to me in so amiable a light that I should think it a happiness 
 to maintain a correspondence with you, if agreeable on your part. 
 
 It gives me peculiar pleasure to find our friends in Great Britain mind 
 ful of this infant seminary. It greatly needs and most cordially accepts 
 their patronage, and wishes too an increase of benefactors. I hope in our 
 turn we shall show all proper respect to all its friends who can justly have 
 any claim upon us. 
 
 Should it be agreeable to you, sir, to exchange some letters, you will 
 always find me ready to execute your commands, as far as I am able. 
 May you experience in your soul the dominion of that grace you have so 
 agreeably described, is, dear sir, the devout wish of 
 
 Your obliged but unworthy brother, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, PROVIDENCE, R. I. 
 Erected A. D. 17 5. 
 
CHAPTER V. 
 
 1774-1779. 
 
 Description of the Baptist meeting-house at the time of Manning s removal to 
 Providence Church and Society prosper under his pastoral care Resolve 
 to build " a meeting-house for the public worship of Almighty God, and also 
 to hold Commencements in " Committees appointed John Brown Lot 
 tery to assist in defraying the expense Raising of the house Dedication 
 Description of the building and grounds Letter to Rev. Benjamin Wallin 
 Baptists imprisoned for the non-payment of rates Letter to Rev. John Ry- 
 land Manning s illness His narrative of the college Commencement in 
 1774 _ Barnabas Binuey Valedictory oration Letter to Thomas Ustick 
 Manning s efforts in behalf of civil and religious freedom Congress of Del 
 egates meet at Philadelphia, Sept. 5, 1774 Address to the same from the 
 Warren Association Backus an agent to said Congress Meeting of the 
 Baptists in Philadelphia Conference between them and members of Con 
 gress _ Manning addresses the Conference and reads a Memorial Results 
 Increase of Baptist sentiments throughout the land Extract from letter giv 
 ing Dr. Stiles s statements in regard to said Conference Petition from the Sen 
 ior Class Manning s reply No Commencement in 1775 Reasons Com 
 mencement in 1776 Newport taken by the British forces Providence under 
 martial law College studies suspended College building occupied by the 
 American, and afterwards by the French troops Manning s duties at this time 
 
 Letter to John Ryland, giving a picture of the war and an account of the 
 progress of religion in the land Letter to Rev. Benjamin Wallin, giving an 
 account of a remarkable revival of religion in the church and College Wal- 
 lin s reply Letter of sympathy and counsel to Miss A. Howard, of England 
 
 Controversial letter on Infant Baptism, to Rev. John Berridge, of London 
 
 Conduct of the Episcopal clergy in reference to the war Meeting of the 
 Corporation in 1777 Instance of Manning s humane disposition Important 
 civil function confided to him Anecdote of Manning in relation to the 
 "Dark Day" Letter to Rev. Thomas Ustick, urging him to open a Latin 
 school with a view to aiding the College Letter from Judge Howell resign 
 ing his Professorship. 
 
 AT the time of Dr. Manning s removal to Providence, 
 the Baptist church were worshipping in a small house, 
 
226 MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 thirty-five by forty-one feet in dimension, erected in the 
 year 1726, on the corner of North Main and Smith Streets. 
 The lot, which was seventy-seven by one hundred and 
 twelve feet, was partly the gift of the Rev. Pardon Til- 
 linghast, a former pastor, and partly the purchase of the 
 society. The following description of the building, and of 
 the mode of worship, which we take from Stone s Life and 
 Recollections of John Howland, will be found interesting : 
 
 " At high water the tide flowed nearly up to the west end of the build 
 ing. There were no pews. From the front door, opening on Main Street, 
 an aisle extended to the pulpit, which was raised three or four steps from 
 the floor. On each side of the aisle benches extended north and south to 
 the Avails of the house, and there were benches in the gallery, which was 
 
 entered by narrow stairs from a door on the south side of the house 
 
 They did not approve of singing, and never practised it in public worship. 
 When more than one elder was present, and the first had exhausted him 
 self, he would say, * There is time and space left if any one has further to 
 offer. In that case another and another would offer what he had to say ; 
 
 so there was no set time for closing the meeting The house could 
 
 not contain a large congregation, nor did the number present seem to re 
 quire a larger house, as they were not crowded though many of them 
 came in from the neighboring towns, on horseback, with women behind 
 them on pillions." 
 
 Under the pastoral care of Dr. Manning the church and 
 society greatly increased in numbers and efficiency, so that 
 ere long it became necessary to erect a new house of wor 
 ship. With a view to the accommodation of the college, 
 it was determined to build it in such a style of elegance, 
 and of such dimensions, as should surpass any edifice of 
 the kind connected with the Baptist denomination in the 
 colonies. 
 
 In looking over the records of the society, we find that, 
 at a meeting held at the house of Mr. Daniel Cahoon, on 
 Friday evening, Feb. 11, 1774, it was 
 
1774-1779. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 227 
 
 " Resolved, That we will all heartily unite as one man, in all lawful 
 ways and means, to promote the good of this society ; and particularly 
 attend to and revive the affair of building a meeting-house for the public 
 worship of Almighty God, and also for holding Commencements in." 
 
 In accordance with this resolve, the society, with una 
 nimity and promptness, entered upon the prosecution of 
 their labors. A committee of two persons, Messrs. Joseph 
 Brown and Jonathan Hammond, were immediately ap 
 pointed to proceed to Boston, " in order to view the dif 
 ferent churches there, and to make a memorandum of their 
 several dimensions and forms of architecture." The old 
 house and lot were sold at public auction, and the ^resent 
 spacious lot, bounded by Thomas, Benefit, President, and 
 North Main Streets, was purchased by Mr. John Angell. 
 In this latter transaction very important service appears 
 to have been rendered by Mr. William Russell. 
 
 On the 25th of April, 1774, at a meeting of the society, 
 of which Dr. Manning was moderator, and Benjamin 
 Stelle clerk, it was resolved 
 
 1. That a petition be presented to the honorable General Assembly, 
 praying that a charter, containing certain privileges and immunities, may 
 be granted to the Baptist society in Providence. 
 
 2. That the Rev. James Manning, Ephraim Wheaton, Nicholas Brown, 
 David Howell, and Benjamin Thurber be a committee to draft a plan of 
 a charter, and present the same to the society for approbation as soon as 
 may be. 
 
 3. That Mr. John Brown be the committee-man for carrying on the 
 building of the new meeting-house for said society. 
 
 4. That Messrs. John Jenckes, Daniel Cahoon, Ephraim Wheaton, 
 Nathaniel Wheaton, Daniel Tillinghast, Joseph Brown, William Russell, 
 Edward Thurber, Nicholas Brown, Christopher Sheldon, and Benjamin 
 Thurber, they or the major part of them, be a standing committee to as 
 sist and advise with Mr. John Brown in locating and carrying into execu 
 tion the building of the new meeting-house. 
 
228 M A X N I N G A N D CHAP. V, 
 
 Thus, while a large committee of eleven was chosen for 
 assistance and advice, the carrying on of the building and 
 the execution of the plans was wisely left to a committee 
 of one. There was hence a unity of purpose, and a suc 
 cess in the final results, which a large and divided com 
 mittee could never have attained. In this matter our 
 fathers have left on record an example which societies of 
 the present day may do well to imitate. It is pleasing to 
 notice, in this record, the unlimited confidence reposed in 
 the abilities and discretion of Mr. Brown. Had there been 
 informers in those days of trial and peril, the large reward 
 offered by the British Government for the apprehension of 
 the author of or leader in the destruction of the Gaspee, 
 two years previous, might have seriously interfered with 
 the plans of the society. 
 
 In order to defray the additional expense of purchasing a 
 lot and of building a house sufficiently large to accommo 
 date the college, recourse was had to a lottery. This, as 
 wo have already remarked in a previous chapter, was in 
 accordance with the universal practice of religious societies, 
 in Ilhode Island and elsewhere, at this period. The lot 
 tery was divided into six classes, the time and place of 
 drawing which were notified from time to time in the 
 Providence Gazette. Eleven thousand nine hundred and 
 seventy tickets were sold, at prices ranging from two and 
 one half to five dollars each. The sum proposed to be 
 raised by this scheme was two thousand pounds lawful 
 money, or about seven thousand dollars. The managers 
 appointed by the General Assembly, were Nicholas Brown, 
 John Jenckes, William Russell, Benjamin Thurber, Edward 
 Thurber, Nathaniel Wheaton, Daniel Tillinghast, William 
 Holroyd, James Arnold, and Nicholas Power. In their 
 announcement of June 25, 1774, they ask for the " cheerful 
 
1774-1779. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 229 
 
 assistance and encouragement of the public, especially 
 when it is considered that this is the first time the Bap 
 tist society have solicited their assistance in this way, 
 which they can assure them would not now have been the 
 case had they not purchased as much more land, and de 
 signed a house as much larger than the society required for 
 their own use (purposely to accommodate public Com 
 mencements), as will amount to the full sum proposed to 
 be raised by this lottery." 
 
 On Monday, Aug. 29, was the "raising" of the new 
 meeting-house, clue notice of which had been given in the 
 papers. A large crowd assembled, and the occasion seems 
 to have been made a general holiday throughout the 
 town. 
 
 During the following year the house was so far com 
 pleted that it was occupied by the society. It was opened 
 for public worship on Sunday, May 28, 1775, when Pres 
 ident Manning preached the dedication discourse, from 
 Gen. xxviii. 17, "And he was afraid, and said, How 
 dreadful is this place ! This is none other but the house of 
 God, and this is the gate of heaven." On Tuesday, June 6, 
 the raising of the steeple, which occupied nearly four days, 
 was finished. The plan of this most elegant piece of archi 
 tecture was taken from the middle figure in the thirtieth 
 plate of Gibbs s " Designs of Buildings and Ornaments," 
 representing the steeple of St. Martin s in the Fields, one 
 of the finest churches in London. 1 It measures one hundred 
 and eight feet from the top of the tower, and one hundred 
 and eighty-five feet from the ground to the top of the vane. 
 The total height of the steeple is one hundred and ninety- 
 six feet. The house itself is eighty feet square. The roof 
 and galleries are supported by twelve fluted pillars, of the 
 
 1 See Knight s " London Illustrated," Vol. V. p. 195. 
 20 
 
230 MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 Doric order. The weight of the original bell was two 
 thousand five hundred and fifteen pounds, and upon it was 
 the following motto : 
 
 " For freedom of conscience the town was first planted; 
 
 Persuasion, not force, was used by the people; 
 This church was the eldest, and has not recanted, 
 Enjoying, and granting, bell, temple, and steeple." 1 
 
 Fronting three of the four streets that surround the 
 house is a door, and fronting Benefit Street are two doors. 
 Thus on Commencement days, and on other public occa 
 sions, it can be easily and readily vacated. Mr. Joseph 
 Brown, a member of the church, was the principal archi 
 tect, and Mr. James Sumner superintended the building. 
 The entire expense of the edifice and lot was upwards 
 of twenty-five thousand dollars. When we consider the 
 value and scarcity of money in those days, the perils and 
 dangers of an impending war with the mother country, and 
 also the fact that Providence was then a small town, con 
 taining, when the building was commenced, a population 
 of only four thousand three hundred and twenty-one, ac 
 cording to the official numeration of the inhabitants, we 
 are amazed at the genius which could conceive, and the 
 energy, enterprise, and skill which could successfully com 
 plete so great an undertaking. Even at the present day, 
 the venerable structure, with its tall, graceful spire, and 
 its spacious enclosure, shaded by stately elms, constitutes 
 one of the chief attractions of the city. In the beginning 
 and progress of this enterprise, we have an illustration 
 of the remarkable influence which Manning must have 
 exerted over the people of his care. 
 
 i Dissenters in Great Britain were not allowed to have steeples or bells to their 
 churches. To this prohibition reference is undoubtedly bad in this inscription. 
 
1774-1779. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 231 
 
 Returning now to our correspondence, we find under 
 date of May 25, 1774, a brief letter addressed to the Rev. 
 Benjamin Wallin : 
 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 Yours of February, now before me, was very acceptable, as also the 
 two pamphlets ; for which I return you my hearty thanks. Hope the sep 
 aration in Dr. Gill s church, although attended with some circumstances 
 in themselves disagreeable, may eventually prove to the furtherance of 
 the gospel. 
 
 Any apology in behalf of your productions, dear sir, is perfectly un 
 necessary. Mr. Booth s piece has not yet come to hand. Please to make 
 my compliments to him, and to any others who may inquire after your 
 unworthy friend. 
 
 Mr. Backus is now raking into the rubbish of time to collect materials 
 for a History of the American Baptists, and prosecutes his design with 
 great assiduity. 
 
 * A very considerable number of Baptists were last winter imprisoned, 
 for the non-payment of their rates to the Presbyterians, in the Colony of 
 Massachusetts Bay; very ill-timed, considering their contest with the 
 British Parliament respecting the right of taxation, and the measures they 
 might have guessed would have been pursued. But, alas ! how blind are 
 we to our own faults ! 
 
 I expect the account of the college will be complete this summer, and 
 hope you may not be disappointed in the manner of its execution. We 
 are not accustomed to write for the public eye. When done they will be 
 forwarded to England with all speed. A grievous diarrhoea, for several 
 months past, has put it out of my power to contribute my assistance, or it 
 would have been more forward at this day. I heartily thank you for your 
 good wishes for me and for the seminary, and hope the institution may 
 prove a public blessing. Religion is in a flourishing state in several of 
 the places around us, but low in Providence. May the Lord revive his 
 own work. With sincere regards, I am, dear sir, 
 
 Your unworthy friend, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 * The Baptist committee are to meet at Boston to-morrow on this busi 
 ness. If no redress is granted from government, they will, I suppose, 
 apply to the King and council through their agents in London. 
 
232 MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 TO THE KEY. JOHN KYLAND. 
 
 NEWPORT, May 27, 1774. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 Though I had no letter from you by the last vessels, I cannot omit 
 sending you a line. The college papers have been retarded by my indispo 
 sition through the past winter. An obstinate diarrhoea, for several months 
 together, took away almost all hopes that I should ever recover my 
 health, and prevented my attention to business in a great measure ; but 
 through the goodness of God I am happily recovered. The Anecdotes 
 of the college will be drawn up and forwarded as soon as may be, and the 
 other papers. But I could not get them ready by this opportunity. This 
 spring I received from Philadelphia your Cause of Deism Ruined Forever, 
 etc. ; and according to the directions, forwarded one to Harvard College, 
 Mr. Stillman, etc. Return my hearty thanks for the one presented me, 
 and, in the name of the corporation, present their thanks for that given to 
 our college library. The college is in much the same state as when I 
 wrote last. Religion is on the revival in some places in New England ; 
 but great calamities seem to threaten us, in consequence of the dispute re 
 lating to taxation ; and the Lord only knows when this dispute will end. 
 I think it incumbent on all who have any interest at the throne of Grace, 
 to employ it, both in Britain and America, that God would pour out his 
 Spirit on us all, and heal the breaches sin has made. 
 
 I have taken the liberty to draw on Mr. Ryland, in favor of Mr. John 
 Bi-own, for five guineas, as usual. My Brother Gano has returned to New 
 York from a tour of six or seven months through the Carolinas. Have 
 not yet seen him, but am informed that he brings good tidings respecting 
 the state of religion. With great respect, I am, sir, 
 
 Yours, etc., 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 We find no further meniton by Dr. Manning of his 
 " Anecdotes " or " Narrative " of the college. His ill health 
 at this time, the cares and anxieties of a pastor in seasons 
 of revival, and the breaking out of the Revolutionary 
 War, prevented the final completion of his literary under 
 taking. It is to be regretted that his manuscript papers 
 have not been more carefully preserved. 1 Doubtless there 
 
 1 For an account of Manning s papers, see Preface. 
 
1774-1779. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 233 
 
 was among them at his death a sketch of the college, 
 which, if not completed, would at least have thrown light 
 upon much that pertains to its origin arid early progress. 
 
 This year the Commencement was held for the last time 
 in Mr. Snow s meeting-house. Six young men took their 
 Bachelor s degree, " delivering their respective parts with 
 that dignity and propriety which acquired them the ap 
 plause of a very numerous, judicious, and polite assem 
 bly." " The company of cadets," says the Chronicle, " in 
 uniforms, made an elegant and truly military appearance ; 
 and both in the procession and in the manoeuvres which they 
 performed on the college green, procured universal appro 
 bation, and convinced the spectators that Americans are 
 no less capable of military discipline than Europeans." 
 
 Among the graduates on this occasion was Mr. Barna 
 bas Binney, who received the valedictory honors of the 
 class. He was born in Boston, Mass. In early youth he 
 discovered a ready and prolific genius, which gave promise 
 of usefulness in the clerical profession. But the liberality 
 of his ideas, says his biographer, rendered it incapable for 
 him to attach himself to any particular sect, and hence he 
 could never be prevailed upon to assume the vows and 
 duties of a professed teacher of religion. He therefore 
 perfected himself in the various branches of medicine, 
 and finally established himself as a physician in the city 
 of Philadelphia. Here he died, in the month of June, 
 1787. His son, the Hon. Horace Binney, is now the Nes 
 tor of the Pennsylvania bar, and ranks among the most 
 distinguished lawyers and jurists of the day. The vale 
 dictory oration of Mr. Binney, which was immediately 
 published, 1 was universally regarded as a splendid produc- 
 
 1 A copy is still preserved in the University library. The following is the 
 title : " An Oration delivered on the late public Commencement at Rhode Island 
 20* 
 
234 MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 tion. After the usual addresses, it discussed fully the poli 
 tics of that eventful period, and was listened to with the 
 most profound attention. The merits of this production 
 were greatly enhanced in the delivery by the gracefulness 
 of the orator, and the uncommon elegance of his manners. 
 
 Judge Dorrance, of Providence, was a member of this 
 class. Immediately after graduating, he was appointed a 
 tutor, and for many years during the latter part of his 
 life he was one of the Trustees of the University. D wight 
 Foster, whose name also appears in this connection, was a 
 brother of the Hon. Theodore Foster, the senator from 
 Rhode Island. He settled as a lawyer in Brookfield, Mass., 
 and represented his native State as a senator in Congress 
 from 1800 to 1803. 
 
 The following letter, directed to "Thomas Ustick, school 
 master, New York," has reference to this Commencement. 
 Mr. Ward, we observe, delivered an oration for the Mas 
 ter s degree, but the other candidates for this honor took 
 no part in the public exercises. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, May 30, 1774. 
 
 SIR : This is to let you know that Messrs. Ward and Arnold, your 
 classmates, spent this evening with me to determine their Commence 
 ment exercises, and they desired me to ask you what you propose to do 
 for Commencement, when you expect to be at Providence to prepare, etc., 
 etc. These things you are desired to answer by the first opportunity. I had 
 from Ashford in Connecticut, this day, an application for a Baptist min 
 ister. I mentioned you to them ; and desire you to confer with Mr. Gano 
 on the subject, that he may bring over word, when he comes. Their 
 
 College, in Providence, September, 1774; being a plea for the right of private 
 judgment in religious matters, or for the liberty of choosing our own religion; 
 corroborated by the well-known consequences of priestly power; to which are 
 annexed the valedictions of the class then first graduated. By Barnabas Bin- 
 ney, A.B. Boston: 1774." The oration, with the illustrative notes, makes a small 
 quarto of forty-four pages. 
 
1774-1779. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 235 
 
 start for a Baptist minister is a new thing ; but they subscribed last week 
 near 500 lawful money towards building a meeting-house. The town is 
 large and rich, and I am told that full one third have declared for the 
 Baptists ; and that, in case they can get a minister of abilities, it is the 
 general opinion that much above half the town will attend the meeting, 
 though there are three parishes in it. The richest men are on our side, 
 and they say they believe in supporting the minister handsomely. What 
 say you of visiting them, at least, as soon as you can with convenience ? I 
 want you to send me, by the first opportunity, two dozen grammars, and 
 I will satisfy you for your trouble. Show this to Mr. Gano, and tell him 
 we expect him over very soon, and also Mrs. Gano and the children, to 
 spend the summer with us. Tell them not to disappoint us. All are well 
 with us, and at Middlcborough. Mr. Hinds went from here this day. 
 Enclosed I send two proposals, etc., which I received this evening from 
 poor Boston. Please hand them to Mr. Gano, to use as he thinks proper. 
 It is now almost midnight, and I can hardly see ; besides, I have told Mr. 
 Gano all I know in a letter written since I received any from him, or I 
 would write him now. There are thirty-five or thirty-six students in col 
 lege, and many of them fine young men. Tell friends they are remem 
 bered by 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 The correspondence of President Manning, it will be 
 observed, abounds in allusions to the oppression of his 
 brethren in Massachusetts and elsewhere, on the part of 
 the " standing order." This oppression he felt called upon 
 to resist to the extent of his ability. To his intelligent 
 and active exertions in behalf of religious liberty and 
 equality, we of the present day and generation are greatly 
 indebted for what we now enjoy as our birthright. 
 
 To set forth in detail the efforts of Manning arid his 
 contemporaries in this direction, would require more space 
 than can be allotted to our present work. For full in 
 formation on the points involved in this controversy, 
 the reader is referred to Backus s Church History of 
 New England, and especially to Prof. Hovey s Memoir 
 of the Life and Times of Backus. One effort of Manning 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 demands special mention. During the present year, which 
 was a year of marked importance in the history of the 
 country, the spirit of resistance to the unjust claims of 
 England had greatly increased among all classes through 
 out the land, until it was at length determined to unite 
 the separate colonies in defence of their common rights. 
 For this purpose a congress of delegates met in Philadel 
 phia, on the 5th of September, 1774. To this meeting it 
 was resolved to send Mr. Backus, the agent of the Bap 
 tist churches, to see if something could not be done to 
 secure rights and liberties from the government at home, 
 as well as the government abroad. Accordingly, at the 
 anniversary of the Warren Association, held the week after 
 Commencement, the following certificate was given : 
 
 To the honorable Delegates of the several Colonies in North America, 
 
 met in a general Congress at Philadelphia : 
 
 HONORABLE GENTLEMEN : As the Anti-pedobaptist churches in 
 New England are most heartily concerned for the preservation and de 
 fence of the rights and privileges of this country, and are deeply affected 
 by the encroachments upon the same which have lately been made by 
 the British Parliament, and are willing to unite with our dear countrymen, 
 vigorously to pursue every prudent measure for relief, so we would beg 
 leave to say that, as a distinct denomination of Protestants, we conceive 
 that we have an equal claim to charter-rights with the rest of our fellow- 
 subjects ; and yet have long been denied the free and full enjoyment of 
 those rights, as to the support of religious worship. Therefore we, the 
 elders and brethren of twenty Baptist churches, met in Association at 
 Medfield, twenty miles from Boston, Sept. 14, 1774, have unanimously 
 chosen and sent unto you the reverend and beloved Mr. Isaac Backus, as 
 our agent, to lay our case, in these respects, before you, or otherwise to 
 use all the prudent means he can for our relief. 
 
 JOHN GANG, Moderator. 
 HEZEKIAH SMITH, Clerk. 
 
 The idea of sending a representative to this congress 
 
1774-1779. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 237 
 
 originated with Dr. Manning, Hczekiah Smith, John Gano, 
 and others, who proposed it to Mr. Backus, at the college 
 Commencement. Mr. Backus, having thus been duly ap 
 pointed by the Warren Association, set out for Philadel 
 phia on the 26th of September. His journey occupied 
 nearly a fortnight. This circumstance is here mentioned 
 to show what travelling facilities were in those days, and 
 what sacrifices were sometimes made by those ministers 
 who attended from a distance the meetings of the college 
 and of the associations. Upon his arrival in Philadelphia 
 he immediately conferred with President Manning, and 
 with the Philadelphia Baptist Association, then holding 
 its sessions in that city. 
 
 In the evening of Oct. 14, says Backus, " there met at 
 Carpenter s Hall, 1 Thomas Gushing, Samuel Adams, John 
 Adams, and Robert Treat Paine, Esqrs., delegates from 
 Massachusetts ; and there were also present James Kinzie 
 of New Jersey, Stephen Hopkins and Samuel Ward of 
 Rhode Island, Joseph Galloway and Thomas Miflin, Esqrs., 
 of Pennsylvania, and other members of Congress. Mr. 
 Rhodes, Mayor of the city of Philadelphia, Israel and James 
 Pemberton, and Joseph Fox, Esqrs., of the Quakers, and 
 other gentlemen ; also Elders Manning, Gano, Jones, 
 Rogers, Edwards, etc., were present. The conference was 
 opened by Mr. Manning, who made a short speech, and 
 then read the memorial which we had drawn up." 
 
 1 " On the morning of the 5th of September, 1774, the old Congress, as it is 
 now familiarly known in our history, commenced its sessions, in Carpenter s 
 Hall in Philadelphia. The place but ill corresponded with the real magnitude 
 of the occasion. No tapestry bedecked its walls, no images of sages and heroes 
 of other days looked down upon the scene. Yet, to one who could read the fu 
 ture, it would have presented a simple grandeur, such as we may row look for 
 in vain within the majestic halls of \he Capitol, and amidst the imposing forms 
 oi the Constitution." Prof. GammeWs Life of Governor Ward. 
 
238 MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 This memorial, which maybe found in Hovey s Memoir, 
 after an eloquent plea in behalf of both civil and religious 
 freedom, recounts in brief the various acts of oppression 
 which the Baptists had suffered in the province of Massa 
 chusetts Bay, commencing with the charter obtained at the 
 " happy restoration." What part Manning had in the draft 
 ing of it we cannot now determine. It was probably the 
 joint production of several hands. The introductory plea 
 and the closing remarks may very properly be attributed to 
 his skilful pen. A copy was afterwards delivered to each 
 of the delegates, together with Mr. Backus s " Appeal to the 
 Public." 1 The result of the conference was not at all sat 
 isfactory, John Adams remarking that we might as well 
 expect a change in the solar system as to expect that they 
 would give up their Establishment ; or, as he himself gives 
 the account, 2 " they might as well turn the heavenly bodies 
 out of their annual and diurnal courses, as the people of 
 Massachusetts at the present day from their meeting-house 
 and Sunday laws." This effort of Manning and his asso 
 ciates was nevertheless the means indirectly of accomplish 
 ing great good. It opened the minds of the people gen 
 erally to a knowledge of their true position and principles, 
 and prepared the way for the astonishing increase of the 
 Baptists, 3 and for the remarkable spread of their sentiments 
 throughout the land. Doubtless it was one of the impor- 
 
 1 The following is the title of this pamphlet, which Backus had prepared and 
 published the previous year: " An Appeal to the Public for Religious Liberty, 
 against the oppressors of the present day. Brethren, ye have been called unto 
 liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one 
 another. Gal. v. 13. Boston: Printed by John Boyle, in Marlborough Street, 
 1773." pp. 62. A copy of this rare pamphlet is in the library of the University. 
 
 8 See Works of John Adams, Vol. II. p. 399. 
 
 3 In 1764, when the college was founded, the Baptists in all America numbered 
 only sixty churches, with five thousand members or communicants. The lapse of 
 a century finds them, with a single exception, the largest denomination of evaii- 
 
1774-1779. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 239 
 
 tant agencies which slowly and silently effected a change 
 in the public sentiment of Massachusetts herself, until, in 
 1833, the Bill of Rights was so amended, that church and 
 state were separated in the old Commonwealth, and soul- 
 liberty, as maintained by the Baptists of every age, was 
 finally and perfectly secured. 
 
 How this conference of the Baptists with the members 
 of Congress was regarded by their opponents, may be seen 
 from an extract from a letter of President Manning, dated 
 Dec. 2, 1774, which we quote from Ilovey s Memoir of 
 Backus. The writer states that the following assertions 
 in reference to said conference were made by the Rev. Dr. 
 Ezra Stiles ; namely : 
 
 " That the Baptists had made an application to the Congress against the 
 Massachusetts Bay ; that the delegates of that province expected only a 
 private interview with some of the Baptists ; but instead of that, when 
 they came they found a house full, etc. ; that they were attacked and 
 treated in the most rude and abusive manner ; that the Baptists pre 
 tended they were oppressed, but, after all their endeavors, they could only 
 complain of a poor fourpence ; that they were ashamed of their errand, 
 and gave up their point, except one or two impudent fellows, who, with 
 Israel Pemberton, abused them in a most scandalous manner ; that all 
 the delegates present were surprised at and ashamed of them, and thought 
 they complained without the least foundation/ etc. Then Dr. Stiles 
 added : " When we have the power in our own hands, ice will remember them." 
 
 gelical Christians in the United States, having 588 associations, 12,648 churches, 
 and 1,037,576 communicants; also 35 colleges or universities, upwards of 100 
 academies, 13 theological schools, and 26 weekly, monthly, semi-monthly, and 
 quarterly periodicals. If to this we add 71,767 Baptists in Nova Scotia, New 
 Brunswick, Canada, and the West India Islands, and 499,941 in the United States 
 who practise immersion, but are not included among the regular Baptists, we 
 have a total of 1,609,284 members, being an increase during the past century of 
 more than a million and a half. (See the American Baptist Almanac for 1863. 
 Also, the excellent article on Baptists in the " New American Cyclopaedia," by 
 the llev. Dr. J. N. Brown, of Phhiladelpia, and a paper on the " Growth of the 
 Baptist Denomination in this Country during the last half Century," read by the 
 Rev. Kendall Brooks, at the recent Jubilee Meeting of the American Baptist 
 Missionary Union.) 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 The following communication, which we copy from the 
 Providence Gazette, sufficiently explains the position of 
 affairs in reference to the Commencement for 1775 : 
 
 To the reverend President, honorable Professor, and rest of the honorable 
 Corporation of Rhode Island College, the dutiful petition of the Sen 
 ior Class : 
 
 MOST WORTHY PATRONS : Deeply affected with the distress of our 
 oppressed country, which now, most unjustly, feels the baneful effects of 
 arbitrary power, provoked to the greatest height of cruelty and vengeance 
 by the noble and manly resistance of a free and determined people, per 
 mit us, gentlemen, to approach you with this our humble and dutiful peti 
 tion, that you would be pleased to take under your serious consideration 
 the propriety of holding the ensuing Commencement in a public manner, 
 as usual ; whether such a celebration of that anniversary would be in con 
 formity to the 8th Article of the Association formed by the grand Ameri 
 can Congress, and which all the colonies are now religiously executing ; 
 and that you would be pleased to signify unto us your resolution respect 
 ing the same, that we may govern ourselves accordingly. 
 
 JOSIAH READ, ^ committee 
 ANDREW LAW, L in behalf of the 
 JAMES FULTON, J Senior Class. 
 COLLEGE IN PROVIDENCE, June 8, 1775. 
 
 To this communication the President and Professor thus 
 reply : 
 
 To THE COMMITTEE OF THE SENIOR CLASS : 
 
 GENTLEMEN: Your dutiful and reasonable petition has been duly 
 attended to ; and permit us to assure you, that it gives us no small satis 
 faction that the present members of this institution, and particularly the 
 respectable Senior Class, are so sensibly affected with the distresses of our 
 country in its present glorious struggles for liberty. We rejoice that you 
 are so ready to sacrifice that applause to which your abilities would en 
 title you at a public Commencement ; and though by this means you may 
 be deprived of an advantageous opportunity to give proof of your abilities 
 in pleading the righteous cause of liberty, for which your predecessors in 
 this institution have been justly celebrated, yet you have hereby given us 
 a convincing proof of your inviolable attachment to the true interests of 
 
1774-1779. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 241 
 
 your country. Be assured that we shall most heartily concur in this, and 
 every other measure which has been, or may be, adopted by the grand 
 American Congress, as well as the Legislature of this colony, in order to 
 obtain the most complete redress of all our grievances ; and deem it the 
 greatest honor to which a noble and generous mind can aspire, to con 
 tribute in any degree towards a restoration and reestablishment in our 
 country of all those liberties and privileges, both civil and religious, which 
 the Almighty Father of the universe originally granted to every individ 
 ual of the human race, and which all ought to enjoy till by law forfeited; 
 which reason claims, which the right of soil, obtained of the natives by 
 free purchase, settles upon us ; which our charters insure to us, and which 
 have been recognized by Great Britain, and guaranteed to us by the faith 
 of the English nation. These inestimable rights and privileges our coun 
 try has for many years enjoyed, the source of its present wealth and 
 strength, more than its fertile soil or healthy climate : by the cruel and 
 wanton invasion and violation of these, she now bleeds in almost every 
 vein ; and finally it is these that her noble sons, the illustrious American 
 patriots, prompted as well as justified by the examples of heroes in all 
 ages, are now prepared to defend, by the same means which have hitherto 
 preserved the liberties of Great Britain, and raised to royal dignity the 
 House of Brunswick. 
 
 And though the din of arms and the horrors of a civil war should in 
 vade our hitherto peaceful habitations, yet even these are preferable to a 
 mean and base submission to arbitrary power and lawless rapine. 
 
 Institutions of learning will doubtless partake in the common calamities 
 of our country, as arms have ever proved unfriendly to the more refined 
 and liberal arts and sciences ; yet we are resolved to continue college 
 orders here as usual, excepting that the ensuing Commencement, by the 
 advice of such of the corporation as could be conveniently consulted, will 
 not be public. 
 
 JAMES MANNING, President. 
 DAVID HOWELL, Philos. Professor. 
 
 COLLEGE LIBRARY, June 9, 1775. 
 
 In accordance with the decisions of the college author 
 ities thus announced, and for the reasons assigned, there 
 was no public Commencement, although the graduating 
 class consisted of ten, a larger number than any hereto- 
 21 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 fore. The battles of Lexington and of Bunker Hill had 
 electrified the public mind, and turned away its attention 
 from the literary performances of the stage to the sterner 
 duties of the field and the camp. A prominent member 
 of this class was Pardon Bowen, who afterwards became 
 one of the most distinguished physicians of Providence. 
 He was an active member of the Rhode Island Medical 
 Society, and for seven years was its presiding officer. 
 Prof. Goddard, in Thatcher s Lives of Eminent Physicians, 
 has paid a just tribute to his genius and worth. In this 
 class also was Robert Rogers, who was elected to the fel 
 lowship in 1788, and who is said to have attended nearly 
 every Commencement until his death, in 1835. For sev 
 eral years he taught a classical school in Newport, which 
 became one of the nurseries of the college. In this class 
 also was Andrew Law, a clergyman who, in 1820, received 
 the degree of LL.D. from another college. The meeting 
 of the corporation this year was rendered memorable by 
 the election of John Brown as treasurer, the duties of 
 which office he discharged with great ability and accept 
 ance for a period of twenty-two years. 
 
 The next year Commencement was held as usual, and, 
 for the first time, in the new Baptist meeting-house. Nine 
 young gentlemen graduated and received their diplomas, 
 among whom was Daniel Gano, eldest brother of Dr. 
 Stephen Gano, Mr. Manning s successor in the pastoral 
 office. 
 
 This was the last public Commencement held during the 
 war. On Saturday, Dec. 7, following, Sir Peter Parker, 
 the British commander, with seventy sail of men-of-war, 
 anchored in Newport harbor, landed a body of troops, and 
 took possession of the place. Providence was hence all 
 in confusion. Troops were massed throughout the town, 
 martial law was proclaimed, college studies were inter- 
 
1774-177U. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 243 
 
 rupted, and the students were dismissed to their respect 
 ive homes, as appears from the following notification of 
 the President, published in the Providence Gazette : 
 
 This is to inform all the students that their attendance on college or 
 ders is hereby dispensed with, until the end of the next spring vacation ; 
 and that they are at liberty to return home, or prosecute their studies 
 elsewhere, as they think proper ; and that those who pay as particular 
 attention to their studies as these confused times will admit, shall then 
 be considered in the same light and standing as if they had given the 
 usual attendance here. In witness whereof, I subscribe, 
 
 JAMES MANNING, President. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Dec. 10, 1776. 
 
 The seat of the Muses now became the habitation of 
 Mars. 1 From Dec. 7, 1776, until May 27, 1782, the course 
 of studies was suspended, and the college edifice was oc 
 cupied for barracks, and afterwards for a hospital, by the 
 American and French forces. 
 
 Dr. Manning having thus far discharged his arduous and 
 responsible duties with unwearied assiduity and the most 
 gratifying success, now employed this interval of relaxa 
 tion from collegiate service in the labors of the ministry, 
 and in various acts of social benevolence which the per 
 ils and distresses of that period in our national history 
 prompted him to perform. A letter to his friend the Rev. 
 John Ryland, written a few days before the closing of the 
 college, gives a vivid idea of the war, regarded by a Chris 
 tian and a philanthropist : 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Nov. 13, 1776. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 After a long interruption of our correspondence, an opportunity again 
 offers of sending you a line, by some of our captive brethren, who have 
 
 1 Up to this time the number of college students had steadily increased from 
 year to year. In 1769 there were thirteen students ; in 1770, twenty-one ; in 1771, 
 twenty-five; in 1772, thirty; in 1773, thirty-three; in 1774, thirty-four; and in 
 1775, forty-one students. These facts we learn from a paper preserved on file by 
 Judge Ho well. 
 
244 MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 liberty to return directly to England. The bearer, Mr. Thomas Macka- 
 ness, partner with Mr. Thornton, can give you many more particulars of 
 our affairs than I can by a letter. 
 
 Since I wrote you last I have seen both glorious and gloomy days. 
 The winter before last it pleased God to pour out his Spirit upon the 
 people of this town in a most glorious manner. I believe about two 
 hundred persons were converted within the space of a few months. I 
 baptized more than half that number in less than a year. But the fatal 
 19th of April, the day of the Lexington battle, like an electric stroke 
 put a stop to the progress of the work, as well in other places as here. 
 Oh horrid war ! How contrary to the spirit of Jesus ! May you never 
 be alarmed, as we have been, with the horrid roar of artillery, and the 
 hostile flames, destroying your neighbors habitations. These I have re 
 peatedly seen and heard, sitting in my house and lying in my bed. I 
 desire to bless God, these scenes of carnage always appeared peculiarly 
 shocking to me, and I feel no disposition to destroy or injure my fellow- 
 men. May the Lord turn the hearts of all to himself ! and then I know 
 war "will instantly cease. The scene of action, in a hostile way, has been 
 at the distance of more than two hundred miles from me this campaign, 
 and I could wish it had been more than ten thousand, if it must be at all. 
 You will not think strange that the colleges have suffered greatly by this 
 tremendous convulsion ; though I believe we have not suffered more than 
 our neighbors. Our number is about thirty; but the high price of every 
 thing amongst us, I fear, will drive some of the students away. 
 
 For more than a year the state of religion has been truly lamentable, 
 except in some places in Connecticut. But there are pleasing prospects 
 opening in several places around us ; I think there are some favorable 
 symptoms in my congregation. May the Lord increase these. There 
 have been seven Baptist ministers ordained in New England since last 
 April, and about that number of churches constituted within about a year. 
 These are encouraging circumstances amidst our troubles. 
 
 My dear Brother Gano 1 has suffered greatly by the war, and where he 
 now is with his distressed, numerous family, I cannot learn, as I have 
 never had a line from him since ho was obliged to quit New York. 
 
 1 Rev. John Gano. He served as chaplain during the war, and by Ms patriotic 
 counsels and earnest prayers did very^nuch to encourage the officers and pri 
 vates of the American army. After the occupation of New York by the British, 
 he retired with his family to a farm within live miles of Warwick, near the New 
 Jersey line. Mr. Manning visited his family in May, 1779, as we learu from his 
 diary or journal. (See Chapter VI.) 
 
1774-1779. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 2*45 
 
 There was a glorious revival of religion, last winter, at Hopewell in the 
 Jerseys. Ninety were baptized and added to that church in seven months. 
 I have heard nothing of the state of religion from the southward for a 
 long time ; but I fear that politics and war have not promoted it. If they 
 have, they have fared better than New England. 
 
 Mr. Mackaness informs me that there is a glorious revival in many 
 parts of England, especially in the Establishment. I heartily rejoice to 
 hear the news. May the kingdom of the Redeemer come throughout the 
 world ! 
 
 The gentlemen you recommended to me as worthy of the honors of 
 the college were all graduated ; but as the communication was shut up 
 their diplomas were never written ; and as I have but short notice of this 
 opportunity, and as there is no parchment in the country, I could not 
 forward them now. But I hope it may not be long before these obstruc 
 tions may be removed. 
 
 I wish you great success in your labors in the gospel, and many crowns 
 of rejoicing in the day of Christ Jesus. If possible, let me have a line 
 from you. If not, grant me an interest in your prayers at our Father s 
 throne, that I may be kept in the day of temptation, and be enabled to 
 fulfil the ministry which I have received. With great respect, and many 
 obligations, I remain, dear sir, 
 
 Your unworthy brother in the gospel, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 The religious awakening to which Dr. Manning here re 
 fers is more particularly described in a letter to the Rev. 
 Benjamin Wallin, dated Nov. 12, 1776: 
 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR: 
 
 It* is long since I have had the pleasure of hearing from you, or an op 
 portunity of writing to you, in consequence of the perilous times in 
 which we live. But I hope, though Great Britain and America are at 
 war, that the saints of God do not mean to wage war against each other, 
 or suffer their love and affection towards each other in the least to abate, 
 because a wise Providence has cast their lot in the respective contending 
 countries. I do not think it the business of the ministers of Christ to 
 meddle much with politics, as they are concerned to promote a kingdom 
 not of this world. You will not, therefore, expect anything from me on 
 21* 
 
246 
 
 MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 this subject, except so far as the cause of the Redeemer appears to be af 
 fected by the alarming aspect of public affairs. 
 
 In the beginning of the winter of 1774, it pleased the Lord in a most 
 remarkable manner to revive his work in the town of Providence, and 
 more especially among the people of my charge. Such a time I never 
 before saw. Numbers were pricked to the heart. Our public assemblies 
 by night and by day were crowded, and the auditors seemed to hear as 
 for the life of their souls. It was frequently an hour before I could get 
 from the pulpit to the door, on account of the numbers thronging to have 
 an opportunity of stating the condition of their minds, some exulting in 
 the love of God and speaking of a precious Jesus, and others bewailing 
 their awful, ruined state, and asking, " What must I do to be saved ? " 
 My dear sir, never until now did I so effectually feel the insufficiency of 
 instruments to afford f ,hc poor sinner the least help. How glorious now 
 to view the all-sufficient Saviour ! There I would stand pointing to him, 
 and saying, " Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the 
 world." This was all I could do. Never before did I experience such 
 happy hours in the pulpit. Day and night my dear people resorted to 
 my house to open to me the state of their souls, insomuch that it was 
 with difficulty I could at any time attend to secular business;. and I think 
 I may say with truth, that I had as little inclination as leisure for it, fur 
 ther than the absolute demands of duty required. 
 
 And what added peculiarly to my happiness was, that the Lord visited 
 the college as remarkably as the congregation. Frequently, when I went 
 to the recitation-room, I would find nearly all the students assembled, and 
 joining in prayer and praise to God. Instead of my lectures on logic 
 and philosophy, they would request me to speak to them of the things 
 concerning the kingdom of God. But your experience in the service of 
 the dear Redeemer will enable you to form a more adequate idea of the 
 concomitant circumstances of such a work of grace than I can here com 
 municate. In a word, the mountains seemed to melt at the presence of 
 the Lord ; the pride and haughtiness of man were laid low; and the Lord 
 alone was exalted. In the space of about six months, I baptized more 
 than one hundred persons. 1 Many were also added to the other churches 
 of the town, who, I believe, were first added to the Lord. Thus the glo 
 rious work continued, and rather increased, until the fatal 19th of April, 
 
 1 Among those who became religious at this time was Mrs. Manning, whom 
 her husband baptized iu the month of January, 1775. 
 
1774-1779. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. "247 
 
 when the affair at Lexington happened, which, like an electiic shock, 
 filled every mind with horror and compassion. When one would have 
 thought this would have promoted seriousness amongst us, it, strange to 
 toll, operated the very reverse ; for since the fatal day languor and abate 
 ment of zeal for God seem greatly to have obtained, and instances of 
 conversion to Christ are rare. Yet I hope our affairs are now somewhat 
 improving. I have often labored to investigate the cause of the almost 
 universal decline of vital godliness amongst us since the commencement 
 of this unhappy war, but can find no other than that war is in its nature 
 a hardening judgment. I have heard of and know many places where 
 the Lord by his Spirit appeared to be at work when hostilities com 
 menced, and in every instance the work immediately abated. In one in 
 stance only were they made the means of any considerable awakening. 
 Yet, blessed be God ! the dews of divine grace have distilled gloriously in 
 many places, and reformations arc commencing. I know you will heartily 
 join at the throne of grace that Christ s kingdom may so come in both 
 countries, yea, in all the world, that war may cease from the ends of the 
 earth. I expect Mr. Thomas Mackaness, merchant in partnership with 
 Mr. Thornton, will hand you this. He has been a great sufferer by hav 
 ing been taken on his voyage to Quebec, in consequence of which he lost 
 vessel and cargo. He can give further information concerning me, if you 
 desire. With sincere regards, I am, dear sir, 
 
 Your friend and unworthy brother, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 The following reply, the last letter from Wallin ever 
 received by Manning, shows that war had not alienated 
 all our English friends. This fact is delightfully- evident 
 in the correspondence of a later period. 
 
 MAZE POND, SOUTHWAEK, Aug. 30, 1777. 
 KEVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 I embrace the opportunity of acknowledging your very acceptable fa 
 vor, which came to hand in January last. Oh the wonders of Omnipotent 
 love ! Peace on earth and good-will to men, dispensed by the everlasting 
 gospel in a rebellious world, like the antediluvian, corrupt before God, 
 and filled with violence ! It is the Lord s doings, and marvellous in our 
 
248 MANN ING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 eyes. Your striking account of the heavenly visitation on the church and 
 college over which you preside filled me with gratitude and joy, as it did 
 my people, and indeed many others, ministers and respectable individuals, 
 from whom I could not conceal the glad tidings. They proved as cold 
 waters to a thirsty soul. Dear sir, if you would have such good news a 
 secret, you must not trust a man with it who wishes to spread abroad the 
 salvation of God, that all who love it may have continual occasion to glo 
 rify his name. Many thanksgivings redounded to the King of all grace 
 upon a rehearsal of this glorious display of his mercy, an evidence this 
 of a genuine love among the saints whose lot is cast in the respective con 
 tending countries, originally united, now waging war, to the grief of all 
 who wish well to Great Britian. What stronger proof of this divine 
 grace than a free communication and an unfeigned great joy in each 
 other s prosperity ! 
 
 It would be pleasing to return a similar account from the mother coun 
 try, but the state of religion is not so delightful and promising. Indeed, 
 many preachers go forth, and the number of hearers increases, but it is not 
 so strictly in the way of the Lord as I could wish. It seems to me vain 
 glorious, and in some respects tending to confusion, of which God is not 
 the author. Among the Episcopalians who have any idea of gospel truth 
 (though I think for the most part they are rather superficial), their way is 
 to open a chapel, as they style it, and, having drawn an audience, they 
 are fixed at a custom-rate for their seats. On this plan many, and some 
 of them sumptuous buildings have been erected, to which, by report, 
 great numbers resort. I would hope by this means some may be led into 
 a saving knowledge of Christ, and so far I rejoice ; yet I cannot but la 
 ment the tending and the effect of this carnal contrivance and vague kind 
 of social religion to the accommodation of man and the neglect of all 
 gospel order. A becoming zeal for this is now a matter of reproach with 
 many among us, insomuch that the enlightened, who wish to be conformed 
 to the positive institutions of the Redeemer, are under great discourage 
 ments, and few join the regular churches of any denomination ; so that a 
 godly discipline in particular communion is in a manner out-of-doors. 
 The consequence of all this will, I fear, be a still greater declension from 
 real and practical piety. The Baptists more especially are obnoxious to 
 these popular gentlemen, of which a specimen has lately transpired in an 
 abusive pamphlet, by a warm-spirited young clergyman. Irritated by 
 some altercations on a late baptizing in the parish of his vicarage, he has 
 fallen foul on me for my little address to the churches of the Congrega- 
 
1774-1770. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 219 
 
 tional order, the first edition of which you have in a volume of mine. 
 This piece has nothing to do with the point in debate, and, being anony 
 mous, was by many ascribed to a person of the Independent persuasion 
 before the author was discovered. This man holds me up to the public 
 as a masterpiece of bigotry, and an enemy to all Pedobaptist communion, 
 and at the same time pretends to much candor. 
 
 This newly-adopted mode has already emboldened some froward men to 
 set up for themselves, under the color of Protestant dissenters ; and, among 
 the rest, lately, one Mr. Dawson, a Sabbatarian Baptist, not long since in 
 New England. Alas ! these men make a trade of religion ! It likewise 
 favors party divisions in church, too frequent, and which now for the most 
 part end in grievous and shameful separations, to the prejudice of broth 
 erly love ; it being the taste of the day to follow new societies and teach 
 ers. This is a melancholy case ; for we know by the disciples at Corinth 
 that in this carnal spirit there is little regard to the power and grace of 
 God in the increase of his church. 
 
 As to my congregation, they are in general steady, and our church 
 state gradually advances. Of late we have been favored with some re 
 markable instances of conversion ; among others, last month I baptized 
 four young persons of one family, brothers and sisters in the flesh, the 
 children of a deacon lately deceased, who was the second person that 
 passed under my hands. This was in the year 1741. Their grandfather 
 and grandmother were also valuable members of the church some years 
 after I succeeded my honored father in the pastoral charge. The Lord will 
 not fail, but may exceed the terms of his promise. His grace is not bound. 
 You will not wonder at the joy of the brethren on this singular occasion. 
 
 I fear the Papists take advantage of our civil and religious confusion. 
 According to some there are alarming symptoms of their increase in 
 our nation and cities. Indeed, unknown and disorderly societies but too 
 much favor their design, while the political sentiments of many Protes 
 tants are a hinderance, at least, to their social prayers. But with our God 
 nothing is impossible. May he pour out the Spirit from on high on both 
 countries, and graciously restore our public tranquillity on an honorable 
 and permanent foundation ; and may you, dear sir, enjoy many happy 
 hours in the closet and in the pulpit, and again be employed in a field 
 white for harvest, as in the year 1775. 
 
 As for me, my age and infirmities promise little further capacity for 
 usefulness. Infinite are the obligations upon me for the grace by which 
 I have been sustained thirty-seven years in the arduous work of the minis- 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 try. Our great Divine Master doth riot cast off his old servants ; yet the 
 prayers of my brethren may subserve to a finish with joy ; a request, I am 
 persuaded, you will not deny me. 
 
 Having the honor of a place in your library, it seemed decent to present 
 a copy of another attempt since my last. Parents, you know, sir, oft show 
 their vanity in dressing up their children. Excuse the uniform of the 
 eleventh volume. It comes in expectation of the same kind reception 
 with that of its preceding companions. If any hints concerning parables 
 in general, or that in particular which is the subject in hand, prove per 
 tinent and useful, the author flatters himself that some other pen may 
 improve them to public advantage. 
 
 For an increase of the church s prosperity and a period to the national 
 trouble,we unite in our prayers to the Most High, with which I conclude. 
 Dear sir, 
 
 Your very obliged and affectionate Brother, 
 
 BENJ. WALLIN. 
 
 P. S. The copy on The Prodigal presented to the college with my 
 most respectful compliments to the venerable members, if it be needful to 
 mention so trifling a matter to them, was bound in readiness soon after 
 the publication. My notice of this opportunity was short, which it is 
 hoped will apologize for the mourning dress of those directed to you and 
 the other gentlemen, on whose candor in perusing them I rely. If by 
 any means you can inform me of the arrival of these, it will be acceptable. 
 Before the present interruption to our intercourse took place, I was in 
 expectation of soon receiving a digested and authentic account of your 
 college, which, I hope, will survive the civil commotions, and prove a 
 flourishing seminary of learning under your direction. If this design is 
 carried into execution, I hope to be presented with some copies the first 
 opportunity. 
 
 The following letter, addressed to Miss A. Howard, in 
 Scarboro, England, illustrates the peculiar tact and deli 
 cacy of Dr. Manning in his efforts to alleviate the dis 
 tressed, and to give sympathy and counsel to the bereaved 
 and unfortunate. In a footnote he remarks that the letter 
 actually sent to Miss Howard was greatly altered and en 
 larged from this, which seems to be the first copy. Capt. 
 
1774-1779. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 251 
 
 Bell, it appears, was taken with his vessel, by some of our 
 cruisers, and brought into Providence, where he died. He 
 was engaged to be married to the lady in question, who, 
 as will be observed, was an entire stranger to Manning. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, NEW ENGLAND, Nov. 19, 1776. 
 DEAR MADAM : 
 
 I hope you will excuse the forwardness of a stranger in addressing a 
 line to you, when I inform you of the amiable character given you by my 
 dear unfortunate friend, Mr. Thomas Mackaness ; as also from the sym 
 pathetic feelings of my heart under the distress which the news of the 
 unexpected and truly lamentable death of the dear Capt. Bell must occa 
 sion, especially considering the endearing relation which, I am informed, 
 he soon expected to stand in to you. Horrid war ! What havoc dost 
 thou make ! To glut thy rage, must the youthful, amiable, virtuous, and 
 what exceeds all these, must the singularly pious Bell fall a victim to thy 
 relentless stroke ! Must the hearts of tender parents bleed ? Must more 
 than half of all your happiness on earth perish ? Must the dear bereaved 
 church at Hull be bathed in tears ? Must the tender orphans, his peculiar 
 care, bewail the loss of their kindest benefactor, under thy unnatural 
 domain ? 
 
 But why do I open afresh the wounds which, long ere this arrives, have 
 often bled 1 You, doubtless, have oft portrayed the bliss of the intended 
 conjugal relation, and recounted the joys of such a virtuous connection, 
 which, by a stroke, is now all blasted, and you sit solitary as one forsaken, 
 and, in the plaintive strain of the sweet singer of Israel, cry, Lover and 
 friend hast thou removed from me, and mine acquaintance into darkness. 
 "I shall no more see good in the land of the living." But stop, my 
 friend ! Why these unavailing sighs 1 For whom do you thus lament ? 
 Is it for him who was so fully ripe for heaven, that earth was no longer 
 for him a fit habitation, for him whose heart and conversation were so 
 in heaven, that the Redeemer chose to receive him to that society where, 
 unmolested, he might sing those songs of praise, and give full scope to 
 that ardor of spirit, which he had here so oft attempted, and so uniformly 
 felt ? True, the loss to you is great ; but greater far, to him, the gain. 
 And could you wish to disengage him from that blessed employment, 
 from that glorious society for which you long, and where you hope to 
 bear a part in those anthems of praise to God and the Lamb forever ? 
 
252 MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 Can you desire that he, disengaged from every earthly clog, should again, 
 for many painful years, groan under the weight of a body of death, and 
 see the object of his highest love through faith s dim medium, as we do 
 now, and mourn his absence from our Father s house, and all this to 
 gratify and assist you through this painful journey home to glory ? No, 
 madam ; both reason and religion forbid this selfish passion ; and, pain 
 ful as the thought of separation is, I know your generous soul can t wish 
 it. You only mourn that you arc left behind, and that our degenerate 
 world has lost his bright example. But remember that he has left you in 
 better hands, that the swift-revolving years will soon land you at the 
 same peaceful haven, where not only he but Jesus waits to welcome trav 
 ellers home. Instead of pensive sadness, then, cheer up, and, as the poet 
 sung, let us go singing on. It will render the journey less painful ; and 
 perhaps more than half the way is passed. Remember that now your at 
 tachment to heaven is stronger than ever. There your best friend, your 
 kindred dwell, there God your Saviour reigns. May he grant you his divine 
 presence to support you under the sore affliction, and abundantly sanctify 
 his hand to you, that you may be more and more prepared for glory. 
 Had I great interest at a throne of grace, you should not want a share of 
 it ; for I think if joining in your sorrow and mingling a friendly tear 
 will alleviate your grief, I have borne a part for you. 
 
 Since the ship was taken and brought in here, I have often thought I 
 should have been peculiarly happy had it been the will of Heaven to have 
 spared the life of the dear man whose untimely death more than British 
 friends lament. But here I find my want of submission to the will of God ; 
 for I am only happy when from the heart I can say to God, Thy will be 
 done. 
 
 Probably I shall never see your face in the flesh ; but should this hap 
 piness be denied me, I hope to see you where there shall be no more sor 
 row nor sighing ; where God shall wipe away every tear from our eyes ; 
 where we shall see, not only the dear man whom we lament, but all the 
 saints on earth, with those uncalled as yet, with Abraham, Isaac, and 
 Jacob, with the apostles and prophets, and the general assembly of those 
 whose names are written in heaven, with Jesus, the mediator, at their 
 head, and God the Judge of all. Oh ! what a glorious day when we shall 
 rise to this exalted station ! My dear friend, let us, then, walk worthy of 
 such a calling ; that whether we are absent or present in body, we may be 
 present with the Lord. And here, I recollect, we may have an interview ; 
 
1774-1779. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 253 
 
 I mean at the throne of grace. Wishing you the highest possible happi 
 ness, 1 subscribe myself, madam, 
 
 Your friend and servant, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 The folio wing letter to the Rev. John Berridge, of Lon 
 don, shows Dr. Manning in the light of a controversialist. 
 How skilfully he could handle the weapons of polemic 
 warfare, will best be learned from its perusal. The pun 
 gency of its wit, the force of its argument, and the excel 
 lence of its style and spirit, amply compensate for its 
 unusual length. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, NEW ENGLAND, Nov. 19, 1776. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 Lately, through the kindness of my friend Mr. Thos. Mackaness, of 
 London, I had the perusal of the " Christian World Unmasked. Pray, 
 Come and Peep. By John Berridge, A.M., etc." 8vo. Lond. 1773. I 
 accepted the invitation, and found the book in general corresponded well 
 to the titlepage, until I came to pp. 223-5, inclusive, when I peeped 
 again, but could not discover the least gleam of light, and therefore con 
 cluded the mask was in the way ; when, lo ! I turned to my New Testa 
 ment, and found that light which is concealed by a veil while AVO search 
 the Old for New Testament ordinances. Ay, Baptist, Baptist; I thought 
 you was a water-fowl when you referred to the pages. Well, be it so ; if 
 he can be an instrument to pick open your eyes a little wider, I hope you 
 will have no objection to him on that account. You say, " I would hate no 
 man, and do condemn no man for thinking differently in this matter." 
 Now if you mean to place the emphasis on thinking, I think I shall not 
 fare well for saying differently. However, as you have made very free 
 with the Grazier, I hope I may with the Doctor, upon the same principle, 
 without offence. 
 
 You say that you have no doubt that infant-baptism is attended with 
 the same blessing now that infant-circumcision was formerly. Both the 
 ordinances are of God s appointment, etc. Till now, I find you produc 
 ing plain Scripture warrant for the glorious doctrines you advance. And 
 must we onlj rely upon the Doctor s bare word for the truth of this last 
 22 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 assertion ? What shall I say, then, to that voice I hear from Heaven, 
 " Tlds is my beloved Son, hear ye him," and that, too, in the presence of 
 Moses and Elias ? Pray, Doctor, have me excused till you point me to 
 the page where this great prophet authorizes you to say this. I have 
 carefully examined the dispensatory, but can find no such prescription 
 between the lids of it. You ask why Christian children may not be re 
 ceived into the church s fold by baptism, as were the Jewish by circum 
 cision. Answer : The former was by God s special appointment, but 
 not the latter. Surely, then, wide is the difference in their case. To say 
 nothing is said to forbid them, is not sufficient to a truly Christian Protes 
 tant doctor ; for if it is necessary, totidem verbis, for the Scripture to forbid 
 everything practised under the name of Christianity, which is, notwith 
 standing, contrary to the true genius of the gospel, it would require a 
 Bible ten times as large as Dr. Gill s Exposition of it. And then what 
 should we field-preachers and the recruiting sergeants of the country do ? 
 But pray, Doctor, is baptism a moral precept, or an institution purely 
 positive ? If the latter, why need we wreck and torture our brains to find 
 a reason for either mode or subjects, time or place, or anything further 
 than what the New Testament simply informs us concerning it, as there 
 is the only place where we should look for it 1 Or why need we be dis 
 tressed how little children should be brought to Christ, while he has not 
 seen fit to teach us the way in which it should be done ? 
 
 In the next paragraph, you say that children dying unbaptized are left 
 to God s uncovenanted mercy ; and what that is, no mortal can tell. But 
 I think I will undertake to tell what it is when the Doctor gives me a sat 
 isfactory account how baptismal water, through the grace of Christ, does 
 wash away the guilt of original or birth-sin (so that dying before they can 
 discern between good and evil, etc., they will be saved), consistent with 
 the whole tenor of the rest of this performance, where the merits of Christ, 
 applied by the Spirit of God, alone cleanses from sin ; especially at the 
 top of page 223, where the Doctor asserts that right to pardon, and a 
 claim to eternal life, are wholly treasured up in Christ, and only are at 
 tained through faith in him ; I say, when the Doctor gives a solution of 
 this Gordian knot, I will undertake the other part promised. Will the 
 Doctor assert that infants, who are not capable of discerning between good 
 and evil, are capable of believing in a gospel sense ? If not, will he as 
 sert that they will be saved without a right to pardon, or any claim to eternal 
 life, which are blessings treasured up in Christ ? I cannot see how this diffi 
 culty can be solved, without recourse to believing by proxy, which I 
 
1774-1779. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 255 
 
 think the Doctor will not recur to, lest the Grassier should learn the trick, 
 and get the curate to believe, in his stead, that he might follow more 
 agreeable business and yet be safe, and after all vanquish the Doctor with 
 his own weapon. But if there is so much efficacy in baptism, it is a pity 
 everybody should not partake of it. And pray, can anybody administer 
 it that pleases ? or must he be a clergyman ? If so, alas ! what shall our 
 poor American church-people do ? For since the King s naughty minis 
 ters undertook to enslave the colonies, the rebel congresses, conventions, 
 committees, etc., have forbid the clergy to pray for the King, and they are 
 so sulky that they will neither preach, pray, baptize, nor anything else. 1 
 And now must the poor infants who may happen to die all perish through 
 their obstinacy, the wickedness of the congresses, and the King s ministers 1 
 If this be the case, I hope the Doctor s patriotism will furnish the minority 
 with a new argument, to urge at the next sitting of Parliament the repeal 
 of the laws ; and which must be very forcible, for I do not believe that ad 
 ministration ever intended to kill our souls. I know pious Lord Dartmouth 
 will turn about ; for it is storied in America that he was very squeam 
 ish when they determined to kill only their bodies. I was glad, however. 
 to find, with the Grazier, you was not " forgetting Jesus Christ to help out 
 some defects," in which you put the grace of Christ together with " bap 
 tismal water," especially as a man of a plain understanding might con 
 clude the former quite sufficient of itself; though the Doctor seems to have 
 given baptismal water the preference, agreeable to the Grazier s method 
 of discharging sinful debts, or paying a decent part of the shot himself, 
 and leaving Jesus to discharge the rest of the reckoning. But how will 
 this comport with the sentiment advanced in page 17G : " It matters not at 
 all whether the work be ritual or moral, while we seek to be saved by it, If 
 we seek at all to be saved by any Avork of our own, we fall from grace. * 
 Pray, Doctor, is not baptism as much a work as circumcision ? 
 
 On page 224 you quote God s declaration to Abraham, long before Jesus 
 
 l Perhaps Dr. Manning is too sweeping in his remarks touching the loyalty of 
 the Episcopal clergy. It is certain, however, that there was ample foundation 
 for such remarks. In the chapter of Staples s Annuls devoted to ecclesiastical 
 history, we find that the liev. John Graves, who was tlie rector of the Episcopal 
 church in Providence until July, 1776, declined to officiate after that period, 
 because he could not be permitted to read the usual and ordinary prayers for 
 the King, which he considered himself bound by his ordination vows to offer. 
 The church was in consequence closed, most of the time, during the war of the 
 Revolution. For a clear account of the relations of the Church of England to 
 the American Colonies, see Thornton s " Pulpit of the American Revolution." 
 
256 MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 was given, " That an uncircumcised child shall be cut off from his peo 
 ple ; he hath broken my covenant " (Gen. xvii. 16), and say the covenant 
 here spoken of is not the Sinai covenant, but the covenant of grace. 
 Circumcision was the outward sign of this covenant to Abraham, as bap 
 tism is to us. The outward rite is different, but the covenant the same. 
 This I compared with pp. 33, 144, where I find it thus written : " If you 
 desire benefit from the covenant of grace, you must be baptized, and if 
 you seek advantage from the covenant of works, you must be circumcised. 
 A rite of initiation is appointed to both the covenants, and you cannot 
 enter into both without partaking of the double rite." " In a covenant 
 of works a man must work for life by his own will and power," etc. " The 
 tenor of this covenant is, do and live, transgress and die," etc. u In the 
 covenant of grace all things are purchased for us, and bestowed upon us 
 generously and freely. These two covenants are called the old and the 
 new ; no more are noticed in Scripture ; and a suitable law respecting 
 both is mentioned, the law of works and the law of faith (Rom. iii. 27). 
 All other laws are cobwebs of a human brain, such as the law of sincere 
 obedience, the law of love," etc. And pray why not the law of infant- 
 baptism ? Now if the covenant made with Abraham was the covenant 
 of grace, and circumcision was the sign of it, why are we told that if we 
 desire benefit from the covenant of works we must be circumcised ? It 
 cannot be because these two very different covenants have the same rites 
 of initiation ; because the Doctor says their rites are different, unless the 
 covenant of grace in Abraham s days is a covenant of works in ours ; for 
 there are but two covenants, the old and the new, noticed in the Scrip 
 tures. 
 
 But I will leave you to compare these passages yourself, without further 
 insisting upon their inconsistency, and come to the dernier resort : " That 
 no harm can possibly arise from baptizing an infant." Stop, Doctor, 
 stop ; these expressions are very strong, I fear much too strong. For 
 did not the Doctor say, page 222, " That much people, who are strangers 
 to the work of regeneration, suppose the new birth is only their baptism, 
 and that every one is born again who is baptized 1 " And is it strange they 
 should think so when they hear thanks returned to God on its perform 
 ance, that it is so by the doctors appointed to that service ? Surely, to lead 
 such multitudes into error in such an important article as that of regen 
 eration, cannot be such a harmless thing, especially if we believe our 
 Saviour s account of it (John iii. 3). Besides, it makes great doctors con 
 tradict themselves when they write or talk about the covenants. If I was 
 
1774-1779. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 257 
 
 one of those doctors, I should think this was some harm. But, most of 
 all, it is invading the kingly office of the great Redeemer ; for I can see 
 no reason why the merits of saints may not bo mingled with the merits of 
 Christ to save the Christian, as the laws or ordinances of men with those 
 of Christ to rule and govern it. Shall we, like Uzzah, not trust the Lord 
 wholly with his ark, but must have a meddling finger ? I forbear to recite 
 the following part of your sentence. I must mention one more evil which 
 arises from baptizing infants, which is this : The practice constrains those 
 servants of God who practise it often to wrest and explain away the 
 plain, obvious sense of Scripture to vindicate it ; especially to give such 
 representations of the covenant of grace as mars its glory, and encour 
 ages the opposers of the glorious doctrines of grace in rejecting the pure 
 gospel of Jesus Christ. This has often grieved my heart, and in no case 
 more than in reading your book, where the glorious Redeemer is exalted 
 in his office, nature and grace, and the pride of man stained, until you 
 get hampered, as I think, with infant-baptism, which neither we nor our 
 fathers are able to prove was ever the mind of Christ. Upon this prin 
 ciple I concluded to address to you a line ; not under the notion of a dis- 
 p -tation, but in a friendly way to hint at what I thought mistakes in your 
 performance. 
 
 You may probably esteem me rigid, from this specimen, and greatly at 
 tached to externals ; but I think otherwise of myself. I think I love the 
 followers of the Lamb, under whatever denomination they pass amongst 
 men. I esteem them my brethren, and feel disposed to make all proper 
 allowances for the prejudices of education, and the weaknesses of human 
 nature, knowing that I myself also am in the body, and peculiarly need 
 the candor of my Christian friends. I hope, therefore, that the benevo 
 lence of my intentions will apologize for the rudeness of my manner. I 
 shall always rejoice to hear that dear Mr. Berridge is alive for God, is 
 held as a star in the right hand of Jesus, and is honored with many seals 
 of his ministry, even though he should continue to think and practise 
 very different from myself relative to the mode and subjects of baptism ; 
 though I sincerely pray that you may be set entirely right in this matter. 
 And blessed be God, he has left us a rule which is able to make wise unto 
 salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. May all our doctrines and prac 
 tices be governed by that ; and may the Spirit of truth lead us into all 
 truth, and ever keep us humble, solely relying on the Lord for those sup- 
 22* 
 
- > MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 plies of grace and help which we always need. May the God of Blessing 
 bless you. I am, reverend and dear sir, 
 
 Your friend and servant in the gospel, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 On Wednesday, Sept. 3, 1777, the members of the cor 
 poration, as appears from the records, met in the new 
 Baptist meeting-house, and conferred degrees upon seven 
 members of the Senior Class, who had been examined the 
 day previous, in accordance with the following, which we 
 take from the Providence Gazette. There was no Com 
 mencement : 
 
 As the term of vacation in the college is now expired, the students are 
 hereby informed, that, in the present state of public affairs, the prosecu 
 tion of studies here is utterly impracticable, especially while this continues 
 a garrisoned town. It is therefore recommended to them to prosecute 
 their studies elsewhere for the present, to the best advantage in their 
 power. The Senior Class are desired to meet at the college, to pass their 
 examination, and receive their degrees at the usual time, being the 2d day 
 of September next, unless the college should be called together sooner. 
 In behalf of the corporation, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, May 16, 1777. 
 
 There was no further meeting of the corporation held 
 until May 5, 1780, when an attempt was made to revive 
 the instruction of the college. 
 
 The years following the breaking up of the college were 
 seasons of great distress. Many families left the town, 
 unable to obtain a subsistence. The records of the church 
 show that members of influence and property, some of 
 them warm personal friends of Manning, were really ob 
 jects of commiseration. It was the delight of the pastor, 
 in this hour of trial, when members of his flock were scat 
 tered by the war, and the influences of literature seemed 
 
1771-1779. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 259 
 
 paralyzed, to aid the needy, and to throw the sunshine of 
 Christian sympathy around the path of the afflicted. His 
 knowledge of the world, his courtly manners, his Christian 
 meekness, combined with his extraordinary energy of char 
 acter, enabled him to move at ease in every class of soci 
 ety, and thus to promote the good of all. The following 
 instance of his humane disposition is thus related by 
 How T land, in his brief memoir of Dr. Manning, published 
 in the year 1815 in the Rhode Island Literary Repos 
 itory : 
 
 " He enjoyed the confidence of the general commanding in this depart 
 ment, and in one instance in particular had all the benevolent feelings of 
 his heart gratified, even at the last moment, after earnest entreaty, by ob 
 taining from General Sullivan an order of reprieve for three men of the 
 regular army who were sentenced to death by that inexorable tribunal, a 
 court-martial. The moment he obtained the order revoking the sentence, 
 he mounted his horse at the General s door, and, by pushing him to his 
 utmost speed, arrived at the place of execution at the instant the last act 
 had begun which was to precipitate them into eternity. With a voice 
 which none could disobey, he commanded the execution to stay, and de 
 livered the General s order to the officer of the guard. The joy of the 
 attending crowd seemed greater than that of the subjects of mercy ; they 
 were called so suddenly to life from the last verge of death, they did not 
 for a moment feel that it was a reality." 
 
 In the same memoir Mr. Howland thus relates the his 
 tory of an important civil function which was confided to 
 Dr. Manning, and by him most skilfully discharged : 
 
 " The repeated calls of the militia, while the enemy remained in this 
 State (Rhode Island), operated with peculiar severity. In some districts 
 the ground could not be planted, and in others the harvest was not 
 reaped in season ; the usual abundance of the earth fell short, and lie who 
 had the best means of supply frequently had to divide his store with a 
 suffering neighbor. In addition to this, laws existed in several States 
 prohibiting the transport of provisions beyond the State boundary. The 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. V. 
 
 plea for these restrictions was that there was danger of the enemy being 
 supplied ; but the real cause was to retain the provisions for the purpose 
 of furnishing their State s quota of troops, as the war was generally car 
 ried on by the energy of the governments of the individual States. These 
 restrictions came with double weight on the citizens of Rhode Island, as 
 a great part of the State was in the possession of the enemy, and the 
 remainder was filled with those who had fled from the islands and the 
 coasts for safety. These restrictions and pi ohibitions were variously 
 modified ; but under all their variations, which referred chiefly to the mode 
 of executing the law, the grievance was the same. The Governor and 
 council of war of Rhode Island, wishing to give their language of remon 
 strance a power of impression which paper could not be made to convey, 
 commissioned Doctor Manning to repair to Connecticut, and represent, 
 personally, to the government of that State our peculiar situation, and to 
 confer with and propose to them a different mode of procedure. The 
 Doctor in this embassy obtained all that he desired ; the restrictions were 
 removed, and, in addition to this, on his representation of the circum 
 stances of the refugees from the islands, contributions, in money or pro 
 visions, were made in nearly all the parishes in the interior of Connecticut, 
 and forwarded for their relief." 
 
 In this connection we cannot refrain from quoting an 
 other anecdote of Manning, as an illustration of his readi 
 ness to use every opportunity to benefit the souls of his 
 fellow-men. We find it in Stone s Life and Recollections 
 of Howland. In May, 1780, occurred "the dark day," so 
 often referred to by the chroniclers of that period. 1 At 
 noon all ordinary business was suspended. Fowls sought 
 their roosts, cattle retired as at night, and men stood ap 
 palled at the dread appearances. "I went," says How- 
 land, " into the street, where many persons were assembled, 
 and among others Dr. Manning. A powerful man, but 
 profligate, advanced up to the President, and said, How 
 
 1 For an account of the " Dark Day," by Prof. Williams, see Memoirs of the 
 American Academy of Arts and Sciences, Vol. I. Sec also Holmes s Life of 
 Stiles, p. 265. 
 
1774-1779. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 261 
 
 do you account for this darkness, sir ? what does it mean ? 
 The President, with great solemnity of manner, replied, 
 I consider it, sir, as a prelude to that great and important 
 day when the final consummation of all things is to take 
 place. " 
 
 A letter which we find addressed to his friend and for 
 mer pupil the Rev. Thomas Ustick, now in Ashford, Con 
 necticut, shows that the college was uppermost in all his 
 thoughts and plans, even though the fortunes of. war had 
 suspended its public exercises : 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Nov. 17, 1778. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 I am told that Mr. Kelly has entirely quitted Pomfret, to their great 
 disappointment. There was a large gathering of people attended, and the 
 prospect was encouraging of great good to be done there. In a letter to 
 Brother Thurber, I mentioned the probability of your supplying them, at 
 least for the present, and perhaps of settling amongst them for life, if 
 you and they are blessed together. Should that be the case, it would be a 
 good place for a Latin school, a nursery for the college, which I wish 
 you immediately to engage in, and endeavor to influence as many as you 
 can of our people to educate their children. The present state of the 
 Baptist society in New England must convince us all of the importance 
 of having men of education in all parts of the country. I am very sorry 
 that I did not think to mention something of this to the Association ; but 
 I have written and am about writing to all our ministers capable of teach 
 ing Latin, to immediately engage in the business. I hope, from present 
 appearances, that college orders may be again revived next spring. I 
 think you ought at least to visit Pomfret, and help them under their pres 
 ent disappointment, as I understand you do not preach statedly at Ash- 
 ford, and that you are nearly convinced that it will not be best for you to 
 settle at that place. With respects to you and yours, 
 
 I remain, etc., 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 A letter from Judge Howell, resigning his place as Pro 
 fessor of Philosophy in the college, may fitly close this 
 chapter : 
 
262 MANNING AND BROWN UNIVERSITY. CHAP. V. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, March 11, 1779. 
 
 SIR : Having ever been impressed with a just sense of the honor con 
 ferred upon me in my appointment to the place of Professor of Philoso 
 phy in Ehode Island College, it becomes me, with much freedom and sin 
 cerity, to acknowledge it. 
 
 I have ever admired the liberal and catholic plan of this college, and 
 esteemed it worthy of the State that gave it birth and patronage, which 
 has induced me for many years assiduously and cheerfully to contribute 
 towards establishing it on a footing, with respect to credit and finances, 
 which might entitle it to more able teachers. That our young seminary 
 had well-nigh attained this state of maturity, all circumstances conspired 
 to afford us the most nattering prospect, before the commencement of the 
 present war. 
 
 Although experimental philosophy was the direct object of my pro 
 fession, yet other branches of learning were devolved upon me. How far 
 my honest endeavors to initiate my pupils in the rudiments of classical 
 learning, and instil into their minds the elementary principles of law, the 
 parent of science, and my favorite theme, have been attended with suc 
 cess, and answered the good purposes of my appointment, is submitted to 
 your honor, the corporation, the sons of the college, and the public to 
 determine. 
 
 Having at length given over all hopes of a revival of classical instruc 
 tion in this college during the continuance of the war, and not feeling 
 disposed so far to take advantage of public munificence as to continue to 
 avail myself of the emoluments of an office without discharging its du 
 ties, I have thought fit, not without weighty deliberation, to resign the 
 professorship. 
 
 I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant, 
 
 DAVID HOWELL. 
 
 Chancellor Hopkins. 
 
CHAPTER VI. 
 
 JOURNEY TO PHILADELPHIA. 
 
 APKIL29 SEPT. 29, 1779. 
 
 Distressed condition of the people of Rhode Island in 1779 Probable reasons 
 for a journey to Philadelphia Diary or Journal Manning sets out from 
 Providence Thursday, April 29 Sunday, May 2, preaches at Mr. James Thur- 
 ber s in the forenoon, and at Mr. Thompson s in the afternoon Thursday, May 
 6, Continental Fast Preaches in the afternoon for Rev. Dr. Nathan Strong, 
 of Hartford Saturday, May 8. preaches to Seventh-day Baptists in Farming- 
 ton Description of the country Sunday, May 9, preaches for Rev. Judah 
 Champion, pastor of the Congregational church in Litchfield Monday, 
 crosses chains of tremendous mountains Tuesday, May 11, preaches in the 
 evening at Mr. Waldo s Wednesday, 12, crosses Continental Ferry Thurs 
 day, 13, reaches the family of his brother-in-law, Rev. John Gano Sunday, 
 16, preaches twice for Rev. Mr. Randall s people Tuesday, 18, assists his 
 nephews in planting Sunday, 23, preaches again for Mr. Randall at Warwick 
 Monday, 24, sets out for the Jerseys Reaches Mrs. Manning s home in the 
 evening May 27, visits Elizabethtown, his native place Sunday, 30, preaches 
 at the Scotch Plains Church Meeting interrupted by the march of the 
 American forces Sunday, June 6, preaches with Mr. Stelle, to a large au 
 dienceSaturday, 12, preaches at the Scotch Plains Church Sunday, 13, 
 preaches again and administers communion Sunday, 20, preaches at Lion s 
 Farms Monday, June 21, sets out for Philadelphia In the evening preaches 
 at Samuel Randolph s June 24, visits Dr. Vankirk, and preaches in the even 
 ing Accounts of Grain and Indian Corn June 27, tarries with Re\v Wil 
 liam Van Horn at Southampton, and preaches Fruit in this neighborhood 
 cut off by the frost Crops fine Monday, June 28, reaches I ennepek, and 
 tarries with Rev. Dr. Samuel Jones five days Sketch of Dr. Jones July 2, 
 Manning arrives at Philadelphia Puts up at William Goforth s Calls on 
 Samuel Davis, William Rogers, Mr. Watkins, Mr. Westcot, Dr. Rush, Mr. 
 Moulders, Mr. Hart, and Robert S. Jones Financial embarrassments of the 
 country Mr. Joseph Hart of the Executive Council spends the evening at 
 his lodgings July 3, breakfasts with Dr. Rush Inquires of Mr. Collins, a 
 member of Congress, relative to the money question Dines at Mr. Red 
 wood s with Hon. William Ellery Sunday, July 4, preaches twice General 
 
264 MANNING AND CHAP. VI. 
 
 Spencer, a member of Congress, spends the evening with him Monday, July 
 6, importuned by a Committee of the First Baptist Church to tarry with them 
 a long time Sets out in the afternoon for Dr. Jones s July 7, sets out for 
 Bordentown July 9, preaches in the evening July 11, preaches at Cran 
 berry Sick with diarrhoea July 13, preaches at the Baptist meeting July 
 16, sets out for Piscataway Mrs. Manning ill July 17, preaches at Sabba 
 tarian meeting July 18, preaches for Mr. Stelle twice July 19, returns to 
 the Farms Report concerning General Wayne and Stony Point July 23, 
 sets out for Hopewell July 25, preaches twice and administers the commun 
 ionJuly 26, preaches in the afternoon July 27, dines at John Hart s, New- 
 townJuly 29, sets out again for Philadelphia July 30, visits in town 
 Sees the prisoners taken at Stony Point Aug. 1, preaches twice Letters 
 from friends Aug. 5, call from Ecv. Morgan Edwards Aug. 7, visits Capt. 
 Falkner, in company with Edwards Aug. 8, preaches in town three times 
 
 Aug. 10, visits Col. Miles, in company with Edwards and Jones Descrip 
 tion of his country-seat Weather Crops Aug. 14, preaches in the even 
 ing Aug. 15, preaches twice, and attends funeral of a child Aug. 16, sets 
 out for Mr. Jones s at Pennepek Finds Mr. Edwards there Aug. 17, sets 
 out for the Jerseys Visits his family and friends Sept. 8, sets out for Prov 
 idenceSept. 11, reaches the home of his brother-in-law, Mr. Gano, and 
 next day preaches twice at Warwick Sept. 14, meets Lieut. Ilubbel on the 
 road, who had come from Newburgh with an invitation from West Point 
 Sept. 16, goes down to West Point by water in Lieut. Hubbel s boat De 
 scription of the Fort and Grounds Introduced to Sergeon McDugal Dines 
 at General Green s quarters with his family Is introduced to General 
 Washington, General Knox, Baron Steuben, the French Ambassador, and 
 others Returns up the river Sept. 17, sets out from the Continental Ferry 
 
 Journey through Connecticut Description of the country Character of 
 
 the inhabitants Manner of conducting town meetings Ravages of the war 
 
 Reaches home, Sept. 29. 
 
 THE year 1779 was one of great .trial and of severe suffer 
 ing to the inhabitants of Rhode Island. For nearly two 
 years Narragansett Bay and all the island towns, at least 
 one fourth of the State, had been in possession of the en 
 emy. External trade was almost entirely suspended, and 
 the people were unable to procure any adequate supply of 
 the necessaries of life. Nearly every able-bodied man 
 was in service, either in the State militia or the Continen 
 tal army, arid even the negroes and Indian slaves were 
 enlisted as soldiers. The price of labor and of all articles 
 of merchandise was fixed by legislative decree. The taxes 
 
1779. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 265 
 
 imposed by the State were enormous ; amounting this year 
 to 495,000, and in the year following to four times this 
 sum. Paper money, which had greatly depreciated in 
 value, was made a legal tender in the payment of debts ; 
 and so easily was it counterfeited, that not even the Sec 
 retary of State could distinguish the genuine from the 
 spurious. In addition to all this, the national cause had 
 encountered reverses, Congress was reduced to a very low 
 ebb, the ablest members having left it, and the prospect of 
 independence and peace was overcast with shadows and 
 doubts. 
 
 It was in reference perhaps to this alarming state of the 
 currency of the country, and in the hope of aiding by coun 
 sel or otherwise his distressed-fellow townsmen, that Dr. 
 Manning set out on a journey to Philadelphia, visiting on 
 the way his relatives in New York and New Jersey. In 
 company with his wife he left Providence on the 29th of 
 April, returning on the 29th of September. He was thus 
 absent just five months, having passed through the States 
 of Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and 
 Pennsylvania. The following diary or journal was kept 
 by him as they travelled from day to day. It abounds in 
 historical incidents and allusions, and presents an excellent 
 daguerreotype view of the author s private life. As an 
 illustration of the times in which he lived, and of the 
 general condition of society, it is an exceedingly valuable 
 document. We have therefore devoted to it an entire 
 chapter, illustrating it with such notes as seemed desirable 
 for the better understanding of the text. As an evidence 
 of Dr. Manning s popularity as a preacher, and of his love 
 for this kind of work, it may be added, that his services 
 were called into requisition forty-eight times during this 
 journey to Philadelphia and the Jerseys. He preached 
 23 
 
266 MANNING AND CHAP. V I. 
 
 in meeting-houses of different denominations, in private 
 dwellings, and even in stores and places of business, as the 
 reader will observe. 
 
 MANNING S JOURNAL . 
 
 Set out from Providence Thursday, 29th of April, at six o clock P. M. 
 Reached Col. Abraham Winsor s in the evening ; began to rain ; were 
 hospitably entertained ; ten miles. Friday morning, 3Qth. A cold north 
 east storm ; broke away at eight o clock A. M., but remained showery and 
 very blustering. Travelled to Mr. John Brown s farm at Chepachet, six 
 miles. Refreshed ourselves and horse, and proceeded to Capt. Corlis s, 
 Killingly, twelve miles. The roads extremely bad. Spent the afternoon 
 and evening, and the next forenoon of May 1, in visiting them and Mr. 
 Jones s family. Set out after dinner and visited Gov. Sessions, who has 
 a most excellent farm in good order. After tea travelled to Mr. Benjamin 
 Thurber s in Pomfret, six miles. The roads better ; tarried over Lord s 
 Day. 
 
 Sunday, May 2. Preached at Mr. James Thurber s, three miles back, 
 in the morning, and at Mr. Thompson s in the afternoon. Preached a 
 lecture at Mr. B. Thurber s at five o clock ; the house crowded and the 
 audience very attentive and affected. Visited Paul Tew, Esq., at Wood 
 stock, Monday, May 3, A. M. and P. M. Mr. Gaboon s family, and 
 dined ; also Mr. Lee s, Thompson s, B. Lindsey s, and Esquire Frink s. 
 Borrowed Mr. Lindsey s trunk; left ours, a jacket, pattern for breeches, 
 white gown, black wool hat, Hart s Hymns, and some valuable papers, in 
 Mr. Thurber s care. Set out Tuesday morning, May 4, and visited Col. 
 Nightingale, three miles. Spent the forenoon and dined. He lives most 
 elegantly; has a grand farm; entertained us hospitably. Then pro 
 ceeded to Mr. Jeremiah Brown s, two and one half miles ; ascended a 
 tremendous hill, refreshed, and proceeded two and one half miles to Capt. 
 Bowles s, Ashford. Tarried all night, well entertained, and set out on the 
 morning of the 5th. Travelled six miles to Stephen Snow s, refreshed, 
 and then reached Mr. Robinson s, a pious Baptist gentleman, who bids 
 fair to be useful in the ministry, in Mansfield, passing through a corner of 
 Willington ; six miles. Were received with great kindness ; dined. Set. 
 out and reached an inn in Coventry, seven miles. Fed the horse, and 
 travelled fifteen miles through Bolton into East Hartford, to the widow of 
 Capt. Bidwel, a pious Baptist lady, and a good liver. Were kindly en- 
 
1779. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 267 
 
 tertained, tarried all night, and went on for Hartford. Three miles to 
 meeting, it being Thursday, the 6th of May, the Continental East ; but a 
 severe northwest wind prevented our crossing the ferry for several hours. 
 Passed at length, and put up at Bull s Tavern, opposite the town house ; 
 were unknown to them. In the afternoon went to Mr. Strong s l meeting, 
 who insisted that I should preach, which I did to a very large and atten 
 tive audience. After service Mr. Strong took us to his house to lodge, 
 
 and entertained us like a friend, and Capt. took our horse from the 
 
 tavern and kept it well ; both insisting that we should call on them again 
 on our way back, as did Dr. Smith. Till within ten or twelve miles of 
 Hartford the way is in general mountainous and rocky, but the people 
 live well by their industry, of which there are striking indications. The 
 season at Hartford appears nearly or quite a fortnight earlier than at Prov 
 idence. Except Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, the weather very blus 
 tering and cold, but no frost. The winter grain looks exceeding promising, 
 and a vast quantity of summer grain is put in ; abundance of land prepared 
 for Indian corn ; the fruit not injured by frosts. Friday morning, May 
 7. Set out for Earmington ; reached Mr. Joseph "Woodruff s, ten 
 miles, and tarried to dinner ; kindly entertained ; then proceeded to a 
 settlement of Seventh-day Baptists in the northwest part of Farmington, 
 ten miles. Tarried at Mr. Covey s, where we were kindly treated, and 
 preached Saturday, the 8th inst., to their society, to great acceptance ; after 
 passing the meadows four miles, the road rough, and an exceeding high 
 mount of difficult ascent. The weather cold, and frost at night. The 
 fruit here killed. After meeting proceeded through Farmington; oated 
 at Mr. Baldwin s tavern, and reached Mr. Philips s tavern at Litchfield 
 at sundown. The whole of this way exceeding mountainous and rough, 
 but the land fertile and well improved ; fine fields of grain and good build 
 ings all the way. The people here live exceeding well. One tedious 
 mountain two and one half miles from Litchfield ; the day warm ; the 
 distance thirteen miles. This town is situated on a cold hill, the water 
 bad, and the season near a fortnight backward of Hartford. Good lodg 
 ings and entertainment at the tavern ; the landlady very agreeable. 
 
 i The Rev. Dr. Nathan Strong, pastor of the First Congregational Church. 
 He graduated at Yale College in 1769, with the highest honors of his class. He 
 was a remarkable man in his day, and exerted among his own denomination, 
 especially, a very important influence. He originated the " Connecticut Evan 
 gelical Magazine," and in the organization of the " Connecticut Missionary So 
 ciety had a primary agency. He died in 1816, in the sixty-ninth year of his 
 age. 
 
268 MANNING AND CHAP. VI. 
 
 Sunday, 9th. Was waited on by Mr. Champion, 1 the Congregationalist 
 minister, whom I found to be a worthy, friendly man, and a good preacher. 
 He invited me to preach, which I did in the afternoon, to a large audi 
 ence, with great freedom and to good acceptance. The people solemn 
 and attentive. After meeting called on Lawyer Reeve, who lives here. 
 Dined with Mr. Champion ; lodged with Dr. Smith ; an agreeable, gen 
 teel family. Monday, Wth. Set off at 8 o clock, accompanied three and 
 one half miles by Mr. Champion, whose company was very agreeable. 
 He insisted if we ever came that way again we should make his house 
 our home, as did Dr. Smith and Mr. Reeve. The road good this distance, 
 but soon becomes exceeding rough, especially Mount Tom, a tremend 
 ous precipice near a mile long ; at six or seven miles after this better to 
 Rawmagin Iron Works, in Washington, eleven miles from Litchfield; 
 Landlord Morgan s. After dinner set out to Bull s Iron Works, in Kent, 
 ten miles, stopping to oat at Tirril s tavern, half way. Here we crossed 
 successive chains of the most tremendous mountains I ever attempted to 
 travel over, and which it was just possible to ascend. The whole distance 
 over there is but a barren country, and the season very backward, until we 
 come to the Works, where the soil and climate seem very different, as the 
 season is much earlier. Refreshed at Landlord Beach s, a pretty good 
 house ; set off and arrived at Col. Morehouse s, four miles, in the even 
 ing. Had good entertainment and bed. The last stage a fine country, 
 well improved, good buildings, and a good road. Passed Mr. Waldo s 
 mseting-house, one half mile. This part of the country greatly divided 
 in politics ; the Tories have done great damage by robbing, etc., in this 
 neighborhood. The York line one half mile this side of Bull s Iron 
 Works. Through the mountains observed the grasshoppers as in sum 
 mer. The country here full of good wheat fields, and also their first great 
 preparations for a summer crop. Tuesday, May 1 1 . Came to Mr. Waldo s, 
 two miles ; out of the road one half mile. Being both unwell and greatly 
 fatigued, and our horse also, by yesterday s journey, concluded to tarry 
 all day and night. This is in Dutchcss County, Pawling s Precinct. 
 Between this and Bull s Works passed a considerable river, along the 
 banks of which fine and pleasant. Had good lodgings. Mr. Waldo has 
 a good tract of land, two hundred acres, patent land, the lease for three 
 
 1 Rev. Judah Champion. He graduated at Yale College in 1751; was ordained 
 pastor of the church in Litchfield, July 4th, 1753; died in 1810. He preached the 
 Connecticut Election Sermon in 1766, which was published. 
 
1779. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 269 
 
 lives. At night preached at his house, from 2d Cor. iv. 17. The state 
 of religion remarkably cold, and the congregation much divided in politics. 
 Wednesday, 12th. Set out, after being very hospitably entertained, and 
 crossed a tedious and long mountain, two miles, before we fully got up ; 
 the descent easy and the road fine to the westward ; the country full of 
 good wheat fields. To Capt. Storm s, thirteen miles. Here a genteel tav 
 ern and good entertainment. The militia assembled to send every twelfth 
 man to the frontiers against the Indians. Travelled five miles to Capt. 
 Griffin s ; fed my horse, and then five miles to Fishkill, and fed again. 
 This but a small village, the buildings poor, and much injured by the 
 troops. The whole of the road from Capt. Storm s remarkably fine, and 
 the country good and well cultivated, especially with wheat. From hence 
 to the Continental Ferry the road and country not equally good as before. 
 No horse-keeping at the Ferry. No wind, and the tide unfavorable. *Two 
 hands rowed over, and were rowing until quite dark ; rained steadily : this 
 had been threatened all day by small sprinklings. Had a pleasant day 
 for travelling ; but now we are landed, in a dark rainy night, on a strange 
 shore, and no tavern that had horse-keeping. With much difficulty found 
 Col. Hansbrook s, but the kitchen people were in bed; were taken in, 
 had good entertainment, horse-keeping, and a good bed. Thursday, 13th. 
 Rose, but a storm from the northeast and a heavy rain determined us to 
 tarry all day. The family very agreeable high Whigs, and wealthy. 
 Friday, 14th. Cleared away in the morning ; set out at eight o clock, and 
 passed through New Windsor, a small village, under a disagreeable hill. 
 The road bad here, as it is seven miles, to Mr. Cross s. Stopped and 
 rested, but he not at home. From thence to Mr. Owen s, who married 
 Lizzy Burden, six miles. There dined. From thence travelled seven 
 miles, and at the tavern gave six shillings lawful money for two quarts of 
 oats. From thence reached Mr. Gano s, 1 five miles, a little before night. 
 He lives in a small log house, on a good farm, belonging to a refugee Tory, 
 but much out of repair. Large quantities of wheat and rye on the ground 
 along this road, which look tolerably well, but all the fruit killed by the 
 frost in April. The cherry trees are again coming out in blossoms, 
 
 i Rev. John Gano, his brother-in-law, pastor of the First Baptist Church in 
 New York, but now engaged as chaplain in the army. His family resided here 
 probably until the close of the war. In the summer of 1776 the British took 
 possession of New York and its environs, which they evacuated Nov. 25, 1783. 
 During this time most of the loyal or Whig families were of course away from 
 the city. 
 
 23* 
 
270 MANNING AND CHAP. VI. 
 
 though not full. Think there will be no fruit for twerfty miles east of the 
 river. Tarried Saturday, 15th. 
 
 Sunday, IQth. Preached twice for Mr. Randall s people. A handsome 
 congregation out, and very attentive . Monday, 1 7th. Visited Esquire Burt, 
 a good liver, and genteel people. Tuesday, 18th. Assisted the boys in 
 planting and dunging their farm ; the afternoon and evening was sick ; 
 took a sweat, and was better. Wednesday, 19th. Nothing but a north 
 east storm prevents our setting out for the Jerseys. Mr. Gano had gone 
 to the army before we arrived here, which is marching to the northward. 
 This is a very hilly country, and much good meadow land. "Warwick 
 lies within about five miles of the Jersey line. The mountains to the 
 southeast are infested with Tory robbers, who greatly terrify the inhab 
 itants ; thirty of them, or thereabouts, and their harborers, have been lately 
 apprehended, and many more have fled, it is supposed to New York. A 
 species of grasshoppers were discovered in the wheatficlds, by men of un 
 doubted veracity. From Wednesday to Saturday rain continued from the 
 northeast. Tarried till Sunday, 23d. 
 
 Preached again at Warwick ; the audience crowded, and much affected. 
 Hud great liberty in preaching. After meeting set out and dined at Col. 
 Ilathhorn s, one mile on. Proceeded fifteen miles over the mountains to 
 Col. Soward s and lodged. Met kind people, and good livers. The house 
 here fortified against robbers, and all sleep armed. I rested scarce any 
 all night, through the importunity of a, troublesome insect. Monday, 
 24//i. Set off before sunrise, and reached Davenport s at Newfoundland 
 to breakfast, ten miles ; was kindly treated. They refused anything for 
 our eating, as they did at Col. Soward s. From thence, ten miles, we 
 reached Esq. Tuttle s. Fed our horses, refreshed ourselves, and set out 
 for Morristown, twelve miles, where we arrived, between four and five 
 o clock, at Arnold s tavern. This is an extremely hot day, and the travel 
 ling excessively tedious, as well on that as on account of the rocky 
 mountainous country, which extends from Warwick within about three 
 miles of Morristown. The greatest part of this country unsettled, and 
 consequently in general, till within about ten miles of Morristown, all this 
 part of the country full of grain. Set out about sundown, and reached 
 Mr. Stites ,i about 11 o clock, very much fatigued. Found the old people 
 somewhat indisposed, but all very glad to see us. From 25th to 27th, 
 
 1 John Stites, Esq., father of Mrs. Manning. 
 
1779. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 271 
 
 tarried at the farm ; then went to Elizabethtown 1 and tarried till the 28th, 
 at Brother Woodruffs. The town and suburbs less damaged by the enemy 
 than I expected. 2 
 
 Sunday, 30th. Preached at the Plains,3 but the meeting much inter 
 rupted by the march of the Pennsylvania line, under General St. Clair, 
 towards the North River. 4 Went to Sister Tingley s, and tarried till Tues 
 day. Tuesday, Jane 1st. A tine rain on Monday ; went to Brother Joseph 
 Manning s, 5 and tarried all night. Wednesday, accompanied by him and 
 wife, visited Uncle Joseph Randolph, and reached Jeremiah Manning s 
 at Bordentown. Tarried till Friday, June 4. There heard the cheering 
 account of the Charleston victory, 6 and the moving of the whole army to 
 North River. Afternoon crossed Crown Ferry, and lodged at Capt. 
 Morgan s, Chester Quakers ; ten miles. Saturday, 5th. Set out early, and 
 reached Mr. Buckalaw s, two miles, to breakfast. Met with Messrs. 
 Stelle 7 and Coles, 7 and proceeded to Bray s meeting-house. Mr. Stelle 
 preached. Lodged at the widow Holmcs s ; an agreeable family. 
 
 Sunday, 6th. Mr. Stelle and myself preached. Had a large audience. 
 Monday, 1th. Messrs. Coles and D. Jones 8 preached, and also had a large 
 
 1 Dr. Manning s native town, the capital of New Jersey at this time, and the 
 principal place in the State; noted for its good schools, and the general culture 
 and intelligence of its inhabitants. 
 
 2 On the 28th of February, 1779, a party of British troops, sent by Clinton from 
 New York, landed at Elizabethtown Point, for the express purpose of taking 
 " the rebel governor," as they called him, Livingston, whose residence was here 
 at Elizabethtown. Not finding him at home, they seized his papers, burned a 
 few dwellings, and departed for New York. 
 
 3 The Scotch Plains Baptist Church, of which Manning had been a member. 
 
 * A large portion of Washington s army had been encamped, or hutted, as 
 Hildreth terms it, at Middlebrook and vicinity, near Elizabethtown, during the 
 previous winter and spring. The encampment broke up at this time ; hence the 
 disturbance of public worship caused by the marching of the troops northward, 
 of which, the Pennsylvania line under St. Clair formed a part. 
 
 s Joseph Manning was a ruling elder of the Scotch Plains Church, having 
 been elected to this office on the 10th December, 1777. 
 
 o Referring to the invasion of Charleston by the British under Prevost, in 
 May previous, and their repulse by the Continental troops and militia under 
 Moultrie and Rutlege. 
 
 7 Rev. Isaac Stelle, pastor of the Piscataway Baptist Church, and Rev. Benja 
 min Coles, pastor of the church at Hopewell. 
 
 s The Rev. David Joues, formerly of New Jersey, but now a distinguished 
 chaplain in the army under Geu. St. Clair. 
 
272 
 
 MANNING AND CHAP. VI. 
 
 audience. Lodged this night at the widow Molly Holmes s ; a fine family. 
 This is a most excellent part of the country for land and excellent crops ; 
 but the shores are greatly infested, and the inhabitants robbed, by To 
 ries, who have fled to the enemy. Tuesday, Jane 8. In company with 
 Messrs. Stelle and Jones came to Mr. Dennis s at Spotswood, to dinner, 
 thirteen miles ; agreeable people. Nine miles to Brunswick, where at Capt, 
 Dennis s we tarried Tuesday night. Wednesday, 3th. Crossed the river 
 at the landing, and came to Uncle Ephraim s and tarried. Brunswick 
 much injured by the British. Tliurdsay, 10th. Visited Mr. Stelle, Aunt 
 Manning, and tarried at Uncle Joseph Randolph s. Friday, \\th. Re 
 turned to the Farms ; found parents ill. Saturday, 12/A. Preached at the 
 Plains, and returned. 
 
 Sunday, 13th. Preached again, gave out the communion service, and 
 tarried at Rev. Mr. Miller s. A fine rain this day, though the meetings 
 not interrupted. 14th. Returned to the Farms. A great rain, followed by 
 a succession of thunder- showers, to-day. Sister Tingley and Joseph 
 Manning s wife came and tarried the night. Went to town, and brought 
 Sister Woodruff, upon the 15th. The season remarkably good, and the 
 grain extraordinary, as well as grass, through the country. Wednesday } 
 June 16. Fine weather. Rain in the afternoon. 17th, 18th, and 19th, 
 tarried at Papa Stites s. 
 
 Preached at Lyon s Farms, the 20th, two sermons. The people in the 
 morning service very attentive and affected, and the meeting tolerably 
 full. Returned, and on Monday, the 21st, set out for Philadelphia. Visited 
 Messrs. Miller and Joseph Maiming, and dined. Preached, at 6 o clock, 
 with great freedom, at Capt. Samuel Randolph s, and tarried all night. Set 
 out the 22d and visited Capt. William Manning, Jacob Martin Esq., Ma 
 jor Edgar, and Benjamin Manning Esq., who, with his lady, accompanied 
 us to Brother Jeremiah Manning s, where we tarried. 23d. Accompanied 
 with brother and wife, kinsman and his, went to Mr. Stelle s ; thence to 
 Brunswick. Heard Mr. Miller preach from the words of Hannah. Dined 
 at Mr. Wall s. Called at Mr. Dennis s, and set out at four o clock for 
 Hopewell ; reached Mr. Barton s at nine o clock in the evening. The day 
 hot. Next day, 24th, visited Dr. Vankirk s, to see aunt, and preached at 
 the meeting-house at six o clock. But few out. Next morning, Friday, 
 25th, visited Messrs. Coles and Blackwell, and reached John Hart s, 1 Esq., 
 
 1 Perhaps a son of the Rev. Oliver Hart. If so, he graduated uudcr Man 
 ning, in the year 1776. The " discipline of the rod " seems to have been at- 
 
1779. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 273 
 
 at Newtown, two o clock P. M. ; were detained the night by a seasonable 
 heavy rain, and treated most hospitably. The weather most intensely hot. 
 English grain the best and in the greatest quantity from Brunswick here 
 that I ever saw ; but the Indian corn backward and poor in general, 
 owing to the cold and wet of the former part of the season. 26th. Set out 
 to Neshaminy Ford, but impassable by the great fall of rain. Went four 
 miles up the creek to the bridge, which, being taken up, we were detained 
 till four o clock P. M. at Mr. Cozens s, when the water subsided, and we 
 passed. The road from Newtown here very bad, but the creek to South 
 ampton good, where we reached, before sunset, Mr. Van Horn s. 1 Found 
 the family well. 
 
 Stayed the 27th, and preached at the meeting-house. But few people 
 out. Mr. Coles was expected. After meeting returned, and tarried till 
 Monday. On June 4th a report prevailed in Woodbridge that the British 
 army at Charleston were totally defeated, with the loss of fourteen hun 
 dred killed and wounded, and seven hundred taken. Repeated reports 
 somewhat similiar, though not making their loss so great, have been con 
 stantly brought from the South ; but no official account confirming it has 
 yet come to hand. 2 All the fruit nearly cut off by the great frost in these 
 parts. The crops incomparably fine, but some fields near the river struck 
 with the red rust, though but little hurt. Rye harvest begun, and wheat 
 will be here this week. 
 
 tended with good effects, if we may judge from the little information respecting 
 him here given. 
 
 1 Rev. William Van Horn. He was born in 1746; educated at Dr. Samuels 
 Jones s Academy at Penuepek ; ordained as pastor over the Baptist church at 
 Southampton, Pa. ; honored with the degree of Master of Arts from the Rhode 
 Island College 1774; and during the Revolutionary war was an efficient and 
 honored chaplain. He died in 1807 in the sixty-first year of his age. 
 
 3 Reports then must have quite equalled if not excelled the telegraphic news 
 of the present day. The simple facts as recorded in history are as follows : The 
 British in 1779 made a second invasion of South Carolina under General Prevost, 
 and were eventually repulsed. On the llth of May, Prevost with nine hundred 
 regulars crossed the Ashley, leaving his main army on the south side of the 
 river. During the forenoon Count Pulaski with his legion attacked the British 
 advanced guard, and was repulsed with great slaughter. Prevost now advanced 
 to the American lines, but in the night, after summoning the city to surrender, 
 withdrew to James Island, fearing the approach of Gen. Lincoln with an army 
 of four thousand men. On the 20th of June the British were attacked by about 
 twelve hundred of Lincoln s men, and the assailants were repulsed. Loss about 
 
274 MANNING AND CHAP. VI. 
 
 Monday, June 28. Set out and travelled to Pennepck, Mr. Jones s. 1 
 Arrived in the evening, and found the family well and glad to see us. 
 Tarried here until July 2d. Spent the time agreeably in viewing the 
 form, its products, harvest, etc., and in conversation. The season here 
 extremely hot ; height of wheat harvest ; the grain struck with the red 
 rust, though little injured, except the lye, which is much blasted. The 
 greatest part of the harvest between here and Philadelphia, where we ar 
 rived at eleven o clock A. M., July 2. Put up at Mr. William Goforth s, 
 and my horse across the way, in Second Street, between Kace and Vine 
 Streets. Visited Samuel Davis, but he was out of town ; also Mr. Rogers. 
 Called at Mr. Watkins s, then at Mr. Westeot s 5 from thence to Dr. 
 Rush s, 2 who treated me politely ; from thence called on Messrs. Shields 
 
 three hundred killed, wounded, and missing on each side. Three days after- 
 w^rds the British evacuated the island. (See Lossing s Field-Cook, etc.) 
 
 1 Rev. Dr. Samuel Jones, one of Manning s intimate friends. He was three 
 years his senior, having been born in the year 1735. Of the church of Pennepek, 
 afterwards called Lower Dublin, he was the honored and esteemed pastor up 
 wards of fifty-one years. He was also an educator of youth, and in this latter 
 capacity was greatly distinguished, being especially judicious and considerate to 
 such young men under his care as had the ministry in view. On the death of 
 Manning, in 1791, he was named by many of the Trustees and Fellows of the col 
 lege as his successor in the presidency. (See letters of Stillman and Howell at 
 the close of our last chapter.) He, it will be remembered, was one of the com 
 mittee to remodel the college charter. 
 
 Dr. Jones was one of the most useful members of the Philadelphia Association. 
 " Here," says Sprague in his Annals, " he is appointed to frame a system of dis 
 cipline, and there to compile a book of hymns, and then to draw up a map rep 
 resenting the various associations; one year he holds the office of moderator, 
 and the next writes the circular letter to the churches, and the next performs 
 some other important public service; indeed, it is impossible to look through 
 the minutes without perceiving that he was always one of the master spirits of 
 the body. Few men could manage more adroitly than he a difficult and in 
 volved case; and sometimes, by a single suggestion, in a deliberative body, he 
 would bring light out of the thickest darkness, and order out of the wildest con 
 fusion." In 1807 he preached the century sermon of the Association, which was 
 published. He died Feb. 7, 1814, in the eightieth year of his age. 
 
 Dr. Jones was a ready writer and a fluent speaker. In his person he is de 
 scribed as a large and firmly built man, six feet or more in height, and every 
 way well proportioned. His face was the very image of intelligence and good 
 nature; which, with the air of dignity that pervaded all his movements, ren 
 dered his appearance uncommonly attractive. He possessed an ample fortune, 
 which he used with signal grace and hospitality. 
 
 2 Benjamin Rush, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence ; dis- 
 
1779. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 275 
 
 and Moulders. Called at Mr. Hart s lodging, but he not within, which 
 was also the case at Mr. Robert S. Jones s. The evening of July 2, Mr. 
 Joseph Hart, of the Executive Council, spent at my lodgings. Saturday, 
 July 3. This morning came out a paper, in which Congress was han 
 dled pretty severely, under the signature of Leonidas. 1 Breakfasted at 
 Dr. Rush s, and received two hundred dollars, Dr. Finley s draft on him. 
 Spent the forenoon chiefly in writing to Providence, by Mr. Ellery, who 
 sets off this afternoon. Went to the State House. Met Mr. Collins, and 
 
 tiuguished for his learning and piety, as well as for his great professional skill. 
 He was educated at the College of New Jersey, graduating in 1760, two years 
 before Manning. 
 
 i The financial embarrassments of the country were exceedingly great at this 
 period, in consequence of the rapid depreciation of the paper currency, of which 
 Congress had emitted, on the 1st of September, 1799, one hundred and sixty mil 
 lions. A spirit of discontent, of speculation and of fraud was everywhere mani 
 fest. The honest and patriotic were impoverished, while rogues and Tories 
 grew rich." As an illustration of the perils and difficulties of this crisis, we 
 print the following handbill, which was posted up in the streets of Philadelphia 
 about this time. Similar bills were posted in other cities. 
 
 " FOR OUR COUNTRY S GOOD. 
 
 " The depreciation of our money, and the high price to which everything is got, 
 is one and the same thing. We ask not who introduced the evil, how it arose, 
 or who encouraged it. In the midst of money we are in poverty, and exposed 
 to want in the land of plenty. You that have money, and you that have none, 
 down with your prices, or down with yourselves; for, by the ever-living and 
 eternal God, we will bring every article down to what it was last Christmas, or 
 we will down with those who oppose it. 
 
 " We have turned out against the enemy, and we wish not to be eaten up by 
 monopolizers and forestallers. 
 
 MOVE ON COOLLY." 
 
 " It gives me very sincere pleasure," writes Washington to his friend Reed, 
 now President of Pennsylvania, " that the Assembly is so well disposed to sec 
 ond your endeavors in bringing those murderers of our cause, the monopolizers, 
 forestallers, and engrossers, to condign punishment. It is much to be lamented 
 that each State, long ere this, has not hunted them down as pests of society, and 
 the greatest enemies we have to the happiness of America. I would to God that 
 some one of the more atrocious in each State was hung in gibbets upon a gallows 
 five times as high as the one prepared for Haman. No punishment, in my 
 opinion, is too severe for the man who can build his greatness upon his country s 
 ruin." When Washington wrote in this way, what, says Hildreth, was to be 
 expected of the inconsiderate multitude? 
 
27G 
 
 MANNING AND CHAP. VI. 
 
 inquired, without much satisfaction, what was on foot in Congress rela 
 tive to the money. Dined at Mr. Redwood s with Mr. Ellery, and re 
 turned to my lodgings, where were Messrs. Shields and Conolly, who 
 spent the afternoon with us. 
 
 Lord s Day, July 4. Preached twice with some freedom; the morn 
 ing congregation thin ; more in the afternoon. Both church and society 
 . here in a broken state. The people urgent for my tarrying a considerable 
 time, which did not suit my affairs. In the evening visited one of the 
 members of the church near her end. Appeared to be in a happy frame 
 of mind. Attended a religious society composed of Baptists, Presbyteri 
 ans, and Church people. They appeared very serious, and somewhat en 
 gaged in religion. Found Gen. Spencer x at my lodgings, now a member 
 of Congress. It being the Fourth of July, the anniversary of Independence, 
 the chaplains of Congress preached suitable to the occasion, and Congress 
 attended. High mass was celebrated and Te Deum sung at the Romish 
 chapel. The gentlemen of the town were invited by billets from the 
 French minister to attend. I suppose these causes rendered the Baptist 
 meeting thinner than otherwise. The lowering of prices by the committee 
 is considered by the town as a violent measure and only a temporary re 
 lief, but think it will share the fate of former State bills. 2 The suburbs of 
 this city greatly destroyed by the English, but the body of it not much 
 damaged. A fine rain on the night of the 4th of July. Some more apples 
 in these parts than in the Jerseys, though but few. Monday, 5th. Brcak- 
 
 1 Joseph Spencer. He was born in Connecticut, in 1714. He was a major in 
 the colonial army in 1756, and was one of the iirst eight brigadiers appointed by 
 the Continental Congress in 1775. He was appointed a major-general in 1776, 
 and in 1777 was in command of the American forces on Rhode Island. After his 
 resignation he was elected a delegate to Congress from his native State. He died 
 in East Haddam. in January, 1789, aged seventy-five. 
 
 2 A short time after this (Oct. 4), a riot took place in Philadelphia in consequence 
 of this attempt of :i committee to regulate the prices of flour, rum, sugar, molasses, 
 coffee, salt, etc. Kobert Morris and other leading merchants refused to conform 
 to the regulation. Wilson, Clymer, Mifflin, and their friends were threatened 
 with banishment to New York, as abettors and defenders of the Tories. Soon 
 afterwards (Oct. 20), a convention of the five Eastern States was held at Hartford, 
 at which a plan was elaborated, which Congress adopted, regulating prices on the 
 basis of twenty paper dollars for one of specie. Dr. Manning s visit to Philadel 
 phia doubtless had reference to some measures of relief of this kind from the op 
 pressive laws of Rhode Island and other States, passed by recommendation of 
 Congress, which made paper money a legal tender. 
 
177D. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 277 
 
 fasted at Mr. Shields s, where a committee from the church met and impor 
 tuned me to tarry with them some time, or come again and make them a 
 longer visit. I gave them hopes of the latter after the four Sabbaths of 
 this month. Went to Mr. David Bowers , and thence to Mr. Moulders ; 
 then to hear the oration at the Dutch church. The performance indifferent. 
 Congress and the French Ambassador present, and a large assembly. 
 Here met Mr. Merchant, and called at his lodgings. Received an invita 
 tion to dine at Prof. Lawrens s, but we dined at Mr. Wcstcot s. Returned 
 to our lodgings. Were visited by Messrs. Shields, Britain, and Gen. 
 Spencer. Set out in the afternoon for Mr. Jones s, where we arrived in 
 the evening. The weather intensely hot. Tuesday, 6th. Tarried at Mr. 
 Jones s, and set out on the 7th for Bordcntown. Dined at Bristol, and 
 reached Mr. Alison s before night. Passed the ruins of Mr. Kirbright s 
 buildings ; the river three fourths of a mile wide ; the ruins of the vessels 
 burned by the English on the east shore, as also the stores, and the dwell 
 ing-house of Mr. Joseph Borden, treasurer. 1 There met Mr. Stitcs, from 
 Cranberry, which detained us until Saturday, July 10. Were hospitably 
 treated by the family, Col. Hoglund, Dr. Moore, Mr. Borden, and Mr. 
 Kirbright. Preached on Friday. evening, and set out in the morning 
 for Cranberry, in company with Col. Hogland and Mr. Stitcs. Reached 
 Cranberry to dine. Found the Doctor well, and glad to see us. 
 
 Preached for Mr. Smith Sunday the llth. The day rainy and few 
 people out. At night had a severe diarrhoea, which continued the 12th, 
 so that I kept house in much pain. 13th. The diarrhaa abated ; the 
 weather fine and cool, as there fell a vast quantity of rain on Lord s Day 
 and evening, accompanied by abundance of thunder and lightning. This 
 morning Mr. Stelle called on us on his way to Philadelphia, and informed 
 us that accounts are received of the burning of New Haven by the British, 
 and that they are destroying all in their way in that quarter. 2 Preached 
 to-day at the Baptist meeting. Tarried the 14th and 15th. Still much 
 
 i On the 7th of May, 1778, six or seven hundred British troops left Philadelphia 
 for the purpose of destroying vessels which were lying in Barnes s and Cross- 
 wick s Creeks at Bordentown. They burned two frigates, destroyed several 
 smaller vessels, burned several residences and buildings on their return, and 
 seized considerable property. 
 
 2 Eeferring to the invasion of Connecticut by the British, under Governor 
 Tyron of New York, and Brigadier-General Garth, in the early part of July, 
 1779, during which they plundered New Haven, and burued Fairlield and Nor- 
 walk. 
 
 24 
 
278 
 
 MANNING AND CHAP. VI. 
 
 indisposed. 1 6th. Set out for Piscataway, called at Brunswick, and reached 
 Bonham Town. Mrs. Manning very ill since the 12th ; scarce able to 
 ride. My brother in great fear of the enemy. Was interrupted till mid 
 night by the seizure of a trunk of goods. 17th. Went to Mr. Benjamin 
 Manning s. Left my spouse, and preached at the Sabbatarian meeting ; 
 returning to our lodgings at Benjamin Manning s, Esq. 
 
 Sunday, July 18. Preached for Mr. Stelle twice, dined at lodgings, and 
 came on to Brother Joseph s. 19th. Returned to the Farms. To-day 
 heard that the British fleet at Stony Point was taken by General Wayne, 
 with five hundred prisoners. 1 Found our parents as well as usual, and 
 tarried there, Mrs. Manning being very unwell, 20th, 21st, and 22d. Set 
 out Saturday, July 23, for Hopewell. Left my mare with Swan s horse. 
 Called on Mr. Miller, who was in ill health. Stopped at Capt. Ran 
 dolph s, dined at Benjamin Manning s ; called at Mr. Stelle s, but he was 
 not at home ; met him at Mr. Hall s in Brunswick. Reached Mr. Prince s, 
 at Rocky Hill. The day very hot and dusty, and my horse travelled 
 hard and greatly fatigued. Distance thirty-two miles. Saturday, 24^/t. 
 Was unable to find my horse until late in the morning. Reached Mr. 
 Barton s at Hopewell, ten miles, much fatigued. The meeting opened by 
 a sermon from Mr. Pitman, to good acceptance. Peter Smith also at 
 tended. 
 
 Lord s Day, 25th. Preached twice, and gave out the communion to a 
 part of the church, as they are unhappily divided about their minister, 
 Mr. Coles. The day exceedingly rainy, but the house full. Monday, 
 26th. Mr. Joshua Jones came and preached in the morning; a good sermon. 
 I closed the meeting in the afternoon. Tuesday, 27th. In company with 
 Mr. Smith reached Samuel Jones s, thirty miles ; caught in a thunder- 
 shower and got very wet ; dined at John Hart s, Esq., at New Town. Tar 
 ried Wednesday, 28th, and set out, after a rainy morning, Thursday, 29th, 
 for Philadelphia, twelve miles. Put up my horse at Mr. Shields s ; called 
 on some friends, and took quarters at Mr. Samuel Davis s. Friday, July 
 30. Visited some friends in town. Saturday, 3lst. Saw the British pris- 
 
 1 This, says Lossing, in his Field-Book of the Revolution, was regarded as the 
 most brilliant achievement of the war, and raised the hero Wayne to the high 
 est point in the admiration of his countrymen. The fortress, which was re 
 garded as impregnable, was taken on the night of July 16. Conversing with 
 Washington on the expedition and the obstacles to be overcome, Wayne is said 
 to have remarked with emphasis, " General, I ll storm hell, if you will only plan 
 it." 
 
1779. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 279 
 
 oners taken at Stony Point march in ; fine-looking men. Dined at Mr. 
 Goforth s. 
 
 Sunday, Aug. 1. Preached twice. The congregation pretty large, more 
 so than usual here, and very attentive. Spent the evening at a religious 
 conference, where there seemed a degree of quickening and freedom. Aug. 
 2. A storm of rain from the northeast, which continued the next day ; 
 heat intense. I tarried mostly at my lodgings. Aug. 4. Wrote letters 
 to Providence, to the church and Nicholas Brown. Aug. 5. The ac 
 count of the defeat of the British by the French fleet in the West Indies 
 arrived. Spent the evening at Major Goforth s, in company with several 
 gentlemen. Here I met Major Somner, ten days from Providence, who 
 tells me that things are agreeable in that quarter, which I was also in 
 formed of by a letter from General Varnum,,received yesterday. G Brig 
 ade is come to headquarters, which I heard by a line from Van Horn, 
 at the same time. Friday, 6th. Delivered my letters to Mr. Somner. This 
 day Mr. Edwards called upon me, and tarried in town several days. Saw 
 General Spencer and Mr. Collins. Abundance of rumors concerning the 
 West India affair. Visited in town in the forenoon. Saturday, 1th. 
 Went with Mr. Edwards to Capt. Falkner s, five miles, and spent the 
 afternoon agreeably. 
 
 Sunday, Aug. 8. Preached three times. The assembly full, and the 
 people so importunate for another Sabbath that I concluded to stay. 9th. 
 Messrs. Jones, Blackwell, and Nathaniel Stout came to town ; the former 
 tarried with me one night. Tuesday, 10th. Mr. Edwards, in company 
 with Jones and myself, set out for Col. Miles s. Distance thirteen 
 miles. Arrived in the evening, and he and lady next morning, from town. 
 He has a most elegant seat, gardens, meadows, etc., and a most remark 
 able spring, which turns three wheels in one fourth of a mile from its 
 source. Spent three days very agreeably, and on the 13th set out for 
 town, Mr. Edwards returning with Mr. Jones. The weather extremely 
 hot, and abundance of rain. The Indian corn incomparably fine, the buck 
 wheat forward, and the second crop of grass cutting. This is an agree 
 able part of the country. Preached this evening, Saturday, 14th. Visited 
 Major Goforth s ; paid my barber ; received one hundred dollars of Mr. 
 Rogers, as per order; called at Mr. Morris s, and dined at Mr. Ball s. 
 
 Sunday, Aug. 15. Extremely hot. Preached twice, attended the 
 funeral of a child, and drank chocolate at Mr. Turner s. Richard 
 Lemon and both the McKims, from Baltimore, at meeting. Monday, 1 th. 
 Visited Mr. Moulders , and attended the meeting of the church and society, 
 
280 MANNING AND CHAP. VI. 
 
 who unanimously agreed to get the pulpit supplied. Chose a committee 
 of eight, half from the church and half from the society, to raise the neces 
 sary supplies for that purpose, and to call Mr. Gano for one year. At 
 two o clock set out for Mr. Jones s. Preached at Pennepek at five o clock. 
 Tarried with Mr. Jones and Mr. Edwards. The weather intensely hot; 
 though the season uncommonly wet. Tuesday, Aug. 17. Set out for 
 Bordcntown, where I dined. Reached Cranberry, Dr. Stites s, at night, 
 18th. Reached Brunswick, and dined at Robert Huder s, where I met 
 with Mrs. Gano and John. Reached Mr. Stites s in the evening, and 
 found all well. The Indian corn incomparably fine through the whole 
 country. Thursday, 13th. Went to Elizabethtown, and returned in the 
 evening. Dined at Dr. Dayton s. Spent the 20th and 21st at the Farms. 
 The weather rainy. 
 
 Sunday, 22d. Preached at the Plains with Mr. Stelle, who preached at 
 six o clock at Morris town. Tarried at Brother Joseph s. A terrible 
 rain at night. My brother very siek with the bilious fever. Jeremiah 
 and son and daughter tarried there also. Monday, 23d. Visited Uncle 
 Joseph Randolph ; in a deep consumption, to all appearance, but comfort 
 able in mind. From thence, through Samptown, I visited Sister Tinglcy, 
 who has broken her right arm by a fall, and dislocated her wrist. Dined 
 and went to Dead River to Brother Jno. Manning s and tarried the night. 
 His eldest daughter sick. His farm is much improved since I saw it, and 
 he lives comfortably. Visited Uncle William Stites, Mr. Tingley, Cousin 
 Jno. Manning, Mr. Miller, Mr. Brooks, and returned to the Farms on 
 Tuesday evening, 24th. Wednesday went to Elizabethtown, visited friends, 
 and tarried two days, returning to the Farms Thursday evening. Ad 
 miral Arbuthnot s fleet said to have arrived at New York, but the partic 
 ulars not come to hand. Friday, 27th. Tarried at home. The season 
 very sickly, but not mortal yet. Yesterday the weather cleared up cool 
 and fine. Continued at home Saturday. 
 
 Lord s Day, Aug. 29. Peached at Lyon s Farms. The audience serious 
 and attentive. Tarried at home till Thursday, the 2d of September, and 
 then, accompanied by parents, visited Stites, Woodruff, dined, and then 
 proceeded to Bonham Town, calling on two of the sisters on the way, and 
 observing the desolations at Woodbridge. Sept. 3. Rainy, but in the 
 afternoon went to Joseph Manning s ; a heavy rain on the way ; found 
 him and two children sick. Sept. 4. Went to Joseph Tingley s ; found 
 my sister better ; preached at the meeting-house, Lord s Day. Saw many 
 old friends and acquaintances, and all my brothers but Joseph. After 
 
1779. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 281 
 
 bidding the last farewell, returned to the Farms in the evening, calling on 
 Mr. Miller on the way, who is much recovered. Tamed at home Mon 
 day, 6th, and were visited by Sister Woodruff. The season remarkably 
 sickly throughout the country, but the mortality not very great. The 
 complaints are intermitting fevers and agues. Tuesday, 1th. Tarried at 
 home and rested ; in the afternoon preached. Mr. Miller came, and we 
 had something of a comfortable season. 
 
 Wednesday, Sept. 8. Set out for Providence. Were accompanied by 
 parents four miles. Left Sister Woodruff at papa s ; called and rested at 
 Dr. Smith s at Chatham, seven miles. Dined at Col. Dunham s in 
 Morristown, seven miles. Were kindly treated. The family sick, and 
 himself indisposed. Set out at four o clock and reached Rockaway, nine 
 miles. Tarried at Jackson s, at the Forge. A thunder-shower in the 
 night, and bedbugs, prevented sleep ; otherwise good entertainment. 
 Paid six dollars. The road much better this way than over the moun 
 tains. Set out on the morning of the 9th, to Esquire Moses Tuttlc s, 
 five miles. The road bad. Breakfasted and reached Davenport s to 
 dinner; the road extremely bad ; distance ten miles. Afternoon visited 
 Col. Soward s, ten miles. The road bad ; tarried the night, and were 
 kindly entertained. 10th. Travelled to Col. Hath Horn s, fourteen miles, 
 and dined ; afternoon reached Mr. Gano s, three and one half miles. The 
 road better over the mountains, though the mountains exceedingly bad. 
 Saturday, llth. Tamed at Mr. Gano s. 
 
 Lord s Day, preached at Warwick twice. The assembly full and very 
 solemn. After meeting dined at Mr. Beard s, who had prepared an ele 
 gant dinner, and were treated very hospitably. Tarried at Mr. Gano s 
 Monday. Took a very great cold. Mrs. Manning but indifferently well, 
 and Sally and Dicky sick. Tuesday, Sept. 14. Set out, dined at Mr. 
 Owen s, and reached Mr. Fought s in the evening. Met Lieut. Hubbel 
 on the road, who came out from Newburgh for this purpose. Met also 
 Capt. Wily from Providence, who informs me they are well in general. 
 We were received and treated very kindly at Mr. Fought s, where we 
 lodged ; and Wednesday, 15th, I visited Isaac Belnap, and was visited by 
 Mr. Edmonds. Preached in the afternoon at the Continental store. 
 The people attentive and affected, and very desirous of another sermon. 
 Visited Dea. Lawrence at the Landing, and returned in the evening to 
 our lodgings. Ever since Sunday the wind fresh at the northeast, cloudy 
 and very cold ; at its first rising a boat was upset in this ferry Sunday 
 morning, and two young ladies were drowned. 
 24* 
 
282 M A N N I N G A N D CHAP. VI. 
 
 Thursday, Sept. 16. Went down to West Point by water in Lieut. 
 Hubbel s boat. The French Ambassador s secretaries in company. One of 
 them spoke English ; a most accomplished gentleman, and the handsomest 
 Frenchman I ever saw. The other was agreeable, as were their attend 
 ant gentleman, but could not converse much in English. We had an 
 agreeable passage, and were greatly entertained by the highlands through 
 which we passed. Those huge, vast mountains, with their cloudy tops, 
 approach near together as the river narrows. At about eleven o clock we 
 reached Gen. Washington s quarters, a beautiful, level spot one mile 
 north of the Point, surrounded by those precipices. His Excellency, the 
 Ambassador, with a number of the generals, were gone to reconnoitre the 
 fort. There I met Dr. Cochrane, Surgeon General of the army, who 
 seemed very glad to find me in camp. After examining a correct map 
 of this fort, shown us by one of the General s aids, and taking a drink, we 
 sailed over to the Point, which is fitted by nature to form an exceeding 
 strong port. Up to the top of the Point is a great ascent, and there a 
 plain on which stands Fort Arnold, at the last part of the Point. A very 
 strong fortress, with excellent bomb-proofs, and bastions below to defend 
 the great chain stretched across just after the river turns west. The op 
 posite shore is also strongly fortified to defend the chain, from what is 
 called the island, and all the heights also on the east side of the river, to 
 prevent their landing and bombarding the fort. These works, viewed 
 from the Point, look most beautiful. These were shown us by Gen. Mc- 
 Dugal, who commands this fortress. Fort Putnam stands on a great em 
 inence at half a mile distance west from this, and commands Fort Arnold. 
 This is the strongest work ever raised in English America, and is utterly, 
 from its situation, inaccessible but on the northern side, where all the 
 force of art is exerted to strengthen it by walls without walls, the outer 
 most of which is laid with lime and stone, with bomb-proofs, etc., etc. 
 This is also defended by all the commanding heights. The approach of an 
 army by land is next to impossible from the west side of the river, as there 
 are but few ways, and those almost impassable, and all strongly defended. 
 The troops were encamped on both sides pf the river on the most conve 
 nient grounds. I dined at Gen. Greene s quarters with his family, Mr. 
 Olney, Col. Morris, Major Littlefield, and Col. Webb, as the General had 
 not returned. Soon after, he, with Gen. Knox, returned, with whom had 
 a little chat. Shortly afterward, his Excellency, the French Ambassador, 
 and Baron Steuben, with their retinues, returned, to all of whom I was in 
 troduced by Gen. Greene. The Ambassador is a good-looking, ruddy- 
 
1779. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 complexioned man as I ever saw for a Frenchman. His family are 
 extremely polite. 1 
 
 Having viewed the works, we returned up the river, had a good time, and 
 arrived at New Windsor after sunset, and at Newborough in the evening. 
 Friday, Sept. 17. The morning was foggy, which prevented our set 
 ting out early. Crossed the river with an easy time, and set out from the 
 Continental Ferry between ten and eleven o clock. Passing Fishkill, took 
 the D anbury road, stopped at a private house to oat, and then reached 
 Col. Luddington s, twenty-two miles ; then reached Esquire Patterson s, 
 four miles, at Fredericksburg. The road good fifteen miles, and then 
 exceeding bad, over rocks and mountains. Saturday, 18th. Set out at 
 sunrise. The road good three miles, and then exceeding bad to Danbury, 
 fourteen miles, where we arrived at eleven o clock. Put up at Capt. 
 Clarke s. Good entertainment. The ruins of the town are affecting, 
 marked with the traces of British inhumanity. 2 This town was consid- 
 erbly large, and prettily situated between the mountains, with a good soil. 
 Apples are plenty here. Some few were to be seen at the river, and a 
 gradual increase. The Indian corn excellent on this side of the river, and 
 the pastures good. Very difficult .to get good entertainment. At two 
 o clock set out through Bethel, to which is a good road three miles. Then 
 we ascend the shocking mountains which reach to Reading, five miles, Bitt s 
 Tavern. This is a pretty village on a hill. From thence we reached 
 North Fairfield, five miles, to Esquire Wakeman s, a private house. Had 
 good entertainment. 
 
 Sabbath morning, 19th. Reached Greenfield, Mr. Tennent s, 3 six miles. 
 
 1 This invitation to visit West Point, as extended to Manning and his wife, 
 through Lieut. Hubbel, and the attention shown them by the generals and offi 
 cers in command, afford a pleasing illustration of Dr. Manning s high character 
 and personal influence. He associated with the first men of his times, and on 
 terms of equality. Few persons of his day could be called his superiors, save in 
 the externals of worldly prosperity. 
 
 2 On the 26th of April, 1777, about two thousand British troops, commanded by 
 Gov. William Tyron, reached the village of Danbury between one and two 
 o clock in the afternoon, for the purpose of destroying the military stores in that 
 town. They left the next morning, after committing various excesses, burning 
 the new meeting-house, nineteen dwellings, twenty-two stores and barns, and an 
 immense amount of stores and provisions for the American army. 
 
 3 Rev. William MacKay Tennent, a distinguished Presbyterian minister. He 
 graduated at the College of New Jersey in 1763, one year after Dr. Manning. 
 In 1772 he became pastor of the church in Greenfield, resigning in 1781 to take 
 charge of a church near Philadelphia. He was one of the trustees of New Jer- 
 
284 MANNING AND CHAP. VI. 
 
 Were most kindly received. I preached twice. A large congregation, 
 and attentive. Drank tea at Dr. Rogers s, Mr. Tennent s sister, an agree 
 able people, who spent the evening with us at our lodgings. The road 
 stony, but not so bad here. The husbandry very good through all this 
 rough country, in which are raised good crops of wheat. Great crops of 
 flax are raised in these parts, though not so good this year. The hus 
 bandry in Greenfield is good, and the inhabitants very good livers. Mr. 
 Tennent well settled. Monday morning, Sept. 20. Went to Fairfield, 
 three miles, and viewed the ruins of that once beautiful place, which 
 shocked me exceedingly. Very few buildings remain. Ninety-six houses, 
 besides barns and stores, were burned. From thence reached Esquire 
 Hubbel s at Stratford, three miles, to dinner. Visited Mr. Ross, who is 
 sick with the fever and ague. There I saw Mr. Elliot, of Fail-field, who 
 is also sick, as indeed are a great part of the people in this neighborhood. 
 Peggy not at home. The family very kind ; tarried here all night. She 
 arrived in the evening ; is kindly treated by the family, who are plain, good- 
 living farmers. I took a walk to the southward of the road, and vieAved a 
 most beautiful, level country, suited to wheat, and the inhabitants very good 
 livers ; their buildings very good, and their crops excellent. Spent the 
 evening at Esquire Brother s, a likely, agreeable man. Tuesday, Sept. 21. 
 Set out at nine o clock, through Stratford, five miles. The inhabitants 
 here had moved out their effects, expecting a visit from the enemy. An 
 agreeable town, situated on a river navigable twelve miles above the town. 
 Crossing the ferry, reached Milford, five miles, and dined at the Rev. Mr. 
 Sherman s. This town large and rich, but their buildings old and in bad 
 order in general. Their husbandry through here good, and their crops 
 excellent ; plenty of apples. Visited the other minister of the town ; 
 was kindly treated, and invited to dine. Here met Mr. Elliot again, with 
 the ague on him, on his way to Boston. Went in company with the min 
 isters to the Freeman s meeting, to prox for deputies to nominate their 
 council, etc., for the election next spring. Was importuned to open the 
 meeting by prayer, which is their usage. Attended in order to observe 
 their manner of proceeding. The clergy in this State vote for their 
 
 Bey College from 1785 to 1808. He received the degree of Doctor in Divinity 
 from Yale College in 1794; was moderator of the General Assembly of the Fres- 
 byterian Church in 1797. His wife was a daughter of the Rev. Dr. Rogers, of 
 New York. Dr. Alexander speaks of him as having a very sweet temper, and 
 distinguished for his hospitality. 
 
1779. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 285 
 
 officers, and often speak to direct in the choice of men. They have great 
 influence on the people. When the meeting is opened by the constables, 
 the people are requested to bring in their votes for their first deputy ; 
 which done, if one has not more than all the rest, it is declared that he is 
 not chosen ; and after declaring the numbers for the respective candi 
 dates, they are requested to bring in again, and so continue to do until he 
 is elected. Twenty names at most are put in by each voter for general 
 officers, out of which the twelve highest are chosen by the assembly for 
 the spring choice. After gratifying my curiosity here, returned to Mr. 
 Sherman s, dined, and set out for New Haven, ten miles, where we ar 
 rived in the evening. The road bad most of the way. Went to Mr. Sa- 
 bin s, who was ill, and his wife from home. Was put to difficulty to find 
 lodging and keeping for our horse, as the town had been sacked by the 
 enemy, and the people had their effects out of town. Tarried at Mr. 
 Lyman s. Indifferent quarters, but a high price. The town shows but 
 few marks of outrage to travellers passing through, as the British did not 
 burn here. Wednesday, Sept. 22. Set out at seven o clock, having taken 
 breakfast. Took the road to Durham, crossed the bridge, and the long 
 causeway one half mile over the marsh. The first six or seven miles 
 very sandy, then a good soil, and well improved to and through Paug, a 
 pleasant village, nine miles. Mr. Williams, minister, invited me to his 
 house, but we could only stop to oat. From hence to Durham, excellent 
 land and husbandry, and the buildings uncommonly elegant. Durham a 
 considerable town, situated on a hill ; the buildings good ; distance nine 
 miles. Dined at Landlord Camp s. The people agreeable. After set 
 ting out was stopped by General Wadsworth, and invited to call, but time 
 would not admit. Reached Middlctown, seven miles, at five o clock. 
 Put up at Capt. Warner s. Was visited by Major Otis. Most kindly 
 entertained ; tarried Thursday, visited Mr. Otis, Mr. Hunting, and Capt. 
 William Warner s lady. Tarried all night, and set out Friday, 24th, for 
 Weathersfield. Crossed the Great Meadows, but the bridge having fallen 
 down, were obliged to ferry over, with difficulty. The upper houses form 
 a pretty village. It began to rain moderately, which lasted to Weathers- 
 field. The town here is beautiful, and the inhabitants appear to live well, 
 as the soil is exuberant. Vast quantities of onions are raised here for 
 importation. Dined at the tavern, next south of the meeting-house, and 
 then examined their fine structure ; dimensions eighty-four by fifty feet, 
 neatly finished with an elegant pulpit, and the most elegant steeple I have 
 seen on the journey. Set out in the rain to Hartford, four miles. Called 
 
286 MANNING AND BROWN UNIVERSITY. CHAP. VI. 
 
 at Capt. Bull s, and found them well, and at Mr. Strong s and Dr. 
 Smith s, but found them gone a journey. Passed the ferry, and reached 
 the Widow Bidwel s, in East Hartford, where we lodged. Were kindly 
 entertained. Set out Saturday, 25th, at seven o clock. The road sandy 
 from the river ten miles. Gated there ; found the road wet seven miles, 
 to Kimball s, where we again oated. Dined at Mansfield, at Mr. Ephraim 
 Rolins s, a Christian friend, seven miles. The road bad, and from hence, 
 six miles, to Mr. Snow s tavern, in Westford, where we fed. Were hailed 
 by Mr. Welch on our way, and invited to tarry and spend the Sabbath ; 
 but we meant to reach Capt. Bowles s, which is six miles from Snow s, 
 where we arrived in the evening, much fatigued. Mrs. Bowles brought 
 forth a son this night. 
 
 Lord s Day, Sept. 26. In company with Capt. Bowles, went to Wood 
 stock to Elder Ledoyt s meeting. Preached in the afternoon. The audi 
 ence solemn and affected. The day being very rainy, tarried all night, 
 and thereby disappointed a number who had assembled for meeting at 
 Capt. Bowles s. Heard of Mr. Ledoyt a pleasing account of their jour 
 ney into the northern parts last spring, and of the remarkable spread of 
 the gospel and of the work of God in various parts. Monday, Sept. 27. 
 Set out in company with the Elder. Found Mrs. Bowles better. At ten 
 o clock proceeded to Jeremiah Brown s, three miles, dined, and reached 
 Mr. Thurber s before night, five miles. Were visited by several friends. 
 Tarried the night, and on Tuesday to dine ; then reached Capt, Corlis s, 
 six miles. The Indian corn but indifferent through these parts, but ap 
 ples plenty. Throughout our whole journey the earth remarkably well 
 clothed with grass. Visited Jno. Jones s family in the evening. Wednes 
 day, Sept. 29. In the morning sc t out for Mr. John Brown s in Glouces 
 ter, twelve miles, where we dined. Keached Providence at six o clock, 
 the road better than usual ; being just five months to an hour absent from 
 home, and having experienced the abundant goodness of God in the 
 journey, in that we had never been molested by ill-disposed persons, nor 
 maimed by the extremely bad roads and dangerous mountains over which 
 we passed. May the Lord fill our hearts with true thankfulness for his 
 abundant mercies through our whole life, and enable us to devote to his 
 service lives which have been peculiarly his care ! 
 
CHAPTER VII. 
 
 1780-1783. 
 
 Meeting of the Corporation in 1780 College instruction revived Manning s 
 perseverance Second interruption Meeting of the Corporation in 1782 
 Resolution to apply to Congress for damages done to the College edifice dur 
 ing the war First meeting of the Warren Association in Providence Illus 
 tration of the efforts made by our fathers to educate and improve the " rising 
 generation " Letter to Hon. David Howell Letter to Rev. Benjamin Wal- 
 lin Brief view of the Religious Condition of the Country Public exercises of 
 Commencement resumed Manning s purpose to proceed to England to so 
 licit funds for the College His memorial to the Corporation on this subject 
 Second letter to Hon. David Howell, giving an account of Commencement 
 and of the proceedings of the Corporation Petition to the King of France 
 for his patronage of the College Sketch of Dr. Benjamin Waterhouse Let 
 ter from Thomas Jefferson in regard to the aforesaid petition to the King 
 Extracts from a Digest of the College Laws by President Manning Remarks 
 of Tristam Burgess in regard to evening speaking on the chapel stage Man 
 ning s ideas of college government and discipline Letter to Henry Kane, of 
 London Letter to Rev. John Ryland Influence of the College in favor of 
 civil and religious liberty Letter to Manning from Rev. Dr. Stennctt An 
 ecdote of Thomas Mullet, Esq., respecting George Washington Reply to Dr. 
 Stennett, giving a history of the times during the war; John Murray; Jemima 
 Wilkinson ; The " Elect Lady " ; increase of religious toleration in New Eng 
 land; calamities of the war; condition of the College; its influence in promot 
 ing Baptist sentiments; character of its library ; plan for an Education Society, 
 etc. Origin of the Rhode Island Baptist Education Society Letter to Dr. 
 Thomas Llewelyn, urging him to endow the College, and thus give it his name, 
 according to a provision of the Charter Extract from an address of the 
 Warren Association pertaining to education, and especially to the College. 
 
 IN the Providence Gazette for the year 1780, we find 
 the following notice : 
 
 The members of the Corporation of Rhode Island College are ear 
 nestly requested to meet on Friday, the 5th of May next, at nine o clock 
 
288 MANNING AND CHAP. VII. 
 
 A. M., at the College Hall, to transact business of the highest importance 
 to the institution, which will then come before them. It is not doubted 
 but that every gentleman who has the welfare of the seminary at heart 
 will attend if possible. 
 
 STEPHEN HOPKINS, Chancellor. 
 
 JAMES MANNING, President. 
 
 JABEZ BOWEN, 
 
 THOMAS EYRES. 
 PROVIDENCE, April 28, 1780. 
 
 At the meeting of the corporation, held agreeably to 
 the foregoing advertisement, there were present, of the 
 Fellows, the President, Hon. Jabez Bowen, Dr. Thomas 
 Eyres, and David Howell ; of the Trustees, Chancellor 
 Hopkins, Henry Ward, Nicholas Brown, Joseph Russell, 
 Daniel Cahoun, William Russell, Hon. Nicholas Cooke, 
 Joseph Brown, John Jenckes, and John Brown. 
 
 The object of the meeting appears to have been the re 
 vival of college instruction, with a view to the commence 
 ment of the exercises, which, since Dec. 1776, had been 
 suspended. President Manning presented a proposal, stat 
 ing on what terms he would instruct such youth as might 
 apply to him for this purpose. The proposal received the 
 approval of the corporation, and he was accordingly, in 
 the language of the record, " ordered to begin." In con 
 sideration of the times, and the great scarcity of money, 
 his salary, which had formerly been 100, was fixed at 
 60, or $300. Few persons, like Manning, would have had 
 the courage and perseverance to revive and carry on the 
 instruction of the college, amid the uncertainties of the 
 war, the general poverty and distress that filled the land, 
 and the despondency and gloom into which the nation, at 
 this period, was plunged. In this instance we have an 
 illustration of his peculiar fitness to lead in an enterprise 
 
1780-1783. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 289 
 
 which, eighteen years before, his friends at Philadelphia 
 had intrusted to his hands. 
 
 "President Manning," says Backus, "now engaged 
 again in the work of education. But further interruptions 
 were in store for him. On the 25th of June, 1780, while 
 he was preaching at the church, it being Sunday, the col 
 lege edifice was a second time seized, by the order of the 
 council of war, for a hospital for the French troops, who 
 held it until May 27th, 1782." 
 
 The next meeting of the corporation was held on the 
 4th of September, 1782, and was fully attended. Among 
 the clergymen present from Massachusetts, we notice the 
 familiar names of Backus, Stillman, and Smith. The 
 following young gentlemen, who, amid all the embarrass 
 ments of the college, had prosecuted and completed their 
 course of studies tinder President Manning, were ex 
 amined, and duly admitted to the degree of Bachelor in 
 the Arts ; namely, Obadiah Brown, John Morley Green, 
 Joseph Jenckes, Alexander Jones, William McClellan, 
 Samuel Snow, and Levi Wheaton. 
 
 Of this number, Green and Snow had served with credit 
 in the army. Wheaton, who died in 1851, was made a 
 trustee during the Presidency of Dr. Maxcy. In 1815 he 
 was appointed Professor of the Theory and Practice of 
 Medicine. He was distinguished, says one who knew him 
 well, for his learning and skill as a physician, and for his 
 taste and varied acquirements in literature. 
 
 At this meeting of the corporation, says the chronicler, 
 " the deplorable situation of the seminary was particu 
 larly taken into consideration ; whereupon it was resolved 
 that the edifice, which had been long occupied as a bar 
 rack and a hospital by the American and French troops, 
 should be directly repaired ; and ample provision was 
 25 
 
290 MANNING AND CHAP. VII. 
 
 made for the immediate instruction of youth in all the 
 branches of polite and useful literature." 
 
 It was also Resolved, "That Joseph Brown, Henry 
 Ward, William Russell, and Ebenezer Thompson, Esq., 
 be a committee to draft a petition to the Continental Con 
 gress, stating the account of the rents due and the dam 
 ages done to the college edifice during its occupancy by 
 the American forces and the troops of his most Christian 
 Majesty; that they report the same to the Chancellor and 
 President; and that on their approbation of it, they sign 
 the said petition, in behalf of this Corporation, and forward 
 it, together with the former petition, which was prepared 
 some time since by the Hon. Jonathan Arnold, Esq. ; and 
 the delegates in Congress for the State of Rhode Island 
 are requested to use their influence to get the same 
 granted." 
 
 The week following, the Warren Association convened 
 for the first time in Providence. Fifteen years had now 
 elapsed since its organization at Warren, and notwithstand 
 ing the efforts of Manning and others, the parent church 
 of the denomination had, during this period, withheld its 
 cooperation as a body, and refused to join the Association. 
 The opposition of many of its members to singing in pub 
 lic worship, and their adherence to the doctrine of laying 
 on of hands, were the principal reasons, doubtless, why 
 they did not, at an earlier day, cooperate with the neigh 
 boring churches, in united efforts for the public good. 
 From the minutes of this meeting we copy the following 
 extracts, as an illustration of the efforts made by our 
 fathers for the education of the youth of the " rising gen 
 eration" : 
 
 " As the instruction and morals of the rising generation are objects of 
 very great importance, Voted, That a spelling-book, containing a good 
 
1780-1783. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 291 
 
 English grammar and the Baptist catechism, be published; and Elder 
 Foster is desired to prepare said book for the press, in conjunction with 
 President Manning, Elders Backus, Stillman, and Skillman, to be pre 
 sented at our next annual meeting for examination ; and in the interim, 
 for the encouragement of this undertaking, it is recommended to the 
 churches to raise by subscription what moneys they can, and send the 
 same to the Association next year." 
 
 " The Association, from a representation made to them, by the corpo 
 ration of the college in Providence, of the low state of the funds of said 
 college, and the urgent necessity of increasing them in order to support 
 suitable instructors therein, and from an idea of the great importance of 
 good education, have taken into consideration, as the most probable 
 method to accomplish this valuable end, the recommendation of a sub 
 scription throughout all the Baptist societies on this continent, as well as 
 to all the friends of literature of every denomination, on the following 
 conditions : 
 
 " We, the subscribers, promise and engage to pay the several sums af 
 fixed to our names, to , to be by him paid to John Brown, Esq., of 
 
 Providence, treasurer of the corporation, or his successor in said office, 
 or order ; to be placed at interest, and the interest only to be applied for 
 the above purpose. 
 
 N. B. The several churches arc desired to insert in the above blank 
 the name of the most suitable person in the society for this service." 
 
 To his early associate in the instruction of the college, 
 Manning thus writes : 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Nov. 19, 1782. 
 To THE HONORABLE DAVID HOWELL, 
 
 DELEGATE IN CONGRESS : 
 
 g IK . This will come to hand too late to announce to you the good 
 news concerning the fate of five per cent. This was forwarded before I 
 reached here ; but my letter may serve to congratulate you on the impor 
 tant event. You will not think strange that I have been at home twelve 
 days and have never attempted to write until now, when I inform you 
 that eight days before I reached here I was seized with a severe fever, with 
 which I travelled, though in great distress, near two hundred miles, and 
 of which I have been ever since confined. Though it has in a measure 
 left me, yet I am still very weak. 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. VII. 
 
 On my arrival, I sent and delivered your letters and those of Dr. Ar 
 nold, desiring Mrs. Ho well, by Jeremiah, to come and see me, as I could 
 not go to her, which she would have done, but the French army are here, 
 encamped on the lands of Jeremiah Dexter, and those of his brother s 
 heirs. The town is full of officers, and she is crowded with them as well 
 as others. The family, however, are all well. I found my family well, 
 and am told that the town is healthy in general. I am exceeding sorry 
 that the committee appointed to prepare and forward the papers relative 
 to the college, have not yet done this. Joseph Brown tells me he has 
 done everything in his power, but Mr. Ward has still disappointed them, 
 by one means or other. When it will be accomplished, I know not. The 
 edifice has been cleaned, and is now undergoing repairs. It is tenable 
 for students. A steward has moved in, Mr. Foster. A tutor is also en 
 gaged, one Mr. Eobbins, of Wethersfield, who is daily expected. The 
 number of students is very small as yet. I still retain the idea of travel 
 ling and soliciting donations for the college ; and I believe the corporation 
 will approve it. But whom we shall get to supply my place in the in 
 terim, I know not yet. I am unable to attend even to my own business. 
 The active executor of my father-in-law s estate, Dr. Dayton, could not 
 collect any money for Dicky, son of Richard, who came with me, before 
 I came away, but expected to get some before you return. I have desired 
 him to have it in readiness by the middle of December, and left at my 
 mamma s, and informed him that I expect you to bring it. I wish you to 
 come that way and take it if there ; if not, please to call on the Doctor at 
 town for it and bring it, and I will cheerfully make good any expense it 
 may cause you. 
 
 Dr. Randal is now here, and informs me that he has written Dr. Ar 
 nold by this conveyance fully upon all matters relative to the family, etc. 
 Mrs. Manning joins in cordial respects to you and the Doctor, with, sir, 
 Your very humble servant, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 p. S. I expect Sister Woodruffe will be in your city before this 
 reaches you. I should esteem it a particular favor if you and the Doctor 
 would call to see her as you have opportunity. 
 
 The following letter, addressed to his friend the Rev. 
 Benjamin Wallin, of London, of whose death he had not 
 
1780-1783. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 293 
 
 been informed, presents at this time a striking view of the 
 religious condition of the New England during the war : 
 
 NEW JERSEY, May 23, 1783. 
 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 I feel happy that an intercourse is again opened between the two coun 
 tries, after an eight years interruption by a most calamitous war, and 
 that I can again address a letter to my much esteemed friend and father 
 in the ministry, with hopes of its reaching hirn before his dismission from 
 the field of labor. Three years ago the past winter, I received a letter 
 from you, accompanied with a small box of books, a very agreeable pres 
 ent, for which you have my most cordial thanks. It came safe, except 
 the "Prodigal" for Mr. Stillman, and your poetical composition directed to 
 me, which were lost by the way. The rest were delivered as directed. 
 Your view of the parable of the prodigal son is to me the most satisfac 
 tory that I have met with. It has been perused by many here with great 
 pleasure. 
 
 I have never written to England since the opportunity in 1776 by 
 Mackaness and Shakspear. By yours to me, as mentioned above, I find 
 it was received, and am happy that the short sketch given of the revival 
 at Providence, and of the country round, furnished an agreeable enter 
 tainment for my English brethren and friends. But days of tribulation 
 have succeeded those happy ones. The calamities of the war fell heavy 
 upon us. First a dispersion of our church and congregation upon the 
 coining of the King s army, which is in sight of my house. This was 
 immediately followed by the evils attendant on a garrison, as we became 
 a frontier. The dreadful effects of this upon the morals of the inhabi 
 tants who remained, I need not mention. But what of all things was 
 the most distressing to me, was the lukewarmness of almost all professors 
 of religion, and the total apostasy of many. The contagion became gen 
 eral. The places of worship were almost abandoned. Alarm upon 
 alarm destroyed all tranquillity, and every day and night threatened us 
 with that desolating devastation which spread with such rapidity along 
 our coasts. The college was quite broken up, and the edifice was 
 occupied by a rude and wasting soldiery, first for barracks, and then for 
 a hospital, until they threatened its almost total demolition. 
 
 But language would fail to paint in proper colors the horrors of these 
 days. About this time one John Murray, alias Murphy, supposed to be 
 25* 
 
294 MANNING AND CHAP, VII. 
 
 a fugitive from justice in Great Britain, with great address undertook to 
 propagate the doctrine of universal salvation, as held by a Mr. Relly, in 
 his book on Union, of which Murray was a mere retailer. In this work 
 he was too successful in the towns and counties through New England. 
 The avidity with which this error was imbibed greatly contributed to the 
 decline of the morals of the people, and to unsettle the minds of profes 
 sors. Soon after this, two women, who pretended to a participation of 
 Deity, set up new kinds of superstition. One of them pretended to be 
 Jesus Christ in the form of a woman. In her preaching and praying she 
 considered herself as the Mediator. The other pretended to pardon sins, 
 and to be at the head of a new dispensation, of which the form of wor 
 ship is dancing, turning round on one foot, pretending to speak in un 
 known tongues, etc., etc. She interdicted all intercourse between the 
 sexes, so that separations between man and wife became common, among 
 those who would attain to a state of absolute perfection. The fruits of 
 this ex parte religion you will easily conjecture. She, with her attendants, 
 came to America from Liverpool, or its vicinity, about the commence 
 ment of the war. But what will astonish you most of all is that great 
 multitudes are ensnared by these delusions, and follow their pernicious 
 ways. 
 
 Yet notwithstanding these discouraging circumstances, a glorious reform 
 ation has progressed, during the past three or four years, in many parts 
 of New England, and about two thousand persons have in consequence re 
 ceived believer s baptism, and several Baptist churches have been consti 
 tuted. The good effects of this work are yet visible. Several places have 
 been visited during the past year, and in these the good work of grace still 
 continues. Dear Mr. Thurston, of Newport, and his people, have had 
 a blessed shower, between thirty and foity of their number having lately 
 been baptized. The attendance on public worship with us at Providence 
 has of late inspired me with hopes of better times. 
 
 The college is again revived ; but our exhausted state will enable us to 
 make only a partial repair of the edifice, and that by borrowing money. 
 "We have been so happy as to preserve our little fund amidst the wreck of 
 public credit, but the present exhausted state of the treasury prevents 
 our commanding the interest when due. The return of peace will, we 
 hope, remedy this inconvenience ere it be of long continuance. The pros 
 pect of students grows more encouraging, though at present the number 
 is small. 
 
 I write this from New Jersey, whither I have come via New York, for 
 
1780-1783. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 295 
 
 the first time in seven years. Last Lord s Day I preached here, and ex 
 pect to preach for two Sabbaths to come. The Baptist meeting-house is 
 still occupied for a hospital, and greatly out of repair. The people seem 
 much disposed to hear the word, although attendance at church has long 
 been out of vogue among them. Rev. Messrs. Miller and Stelle, of the 
 Scotch Plains and Piscataway churches, two eminent Baptist ministers, 
 died nearly two years ago. Their people have not yet found Elishas to 
 take their places. Political contentions have proved exceedingly mis 
 chievous in many of our churches. A spirit of toleration, however, is 
 vastly more prevalent among the Pedobaptists since the war. To this 
 out friend Mr. Backus, who is well and still active, has contributed much. 
 I fear I shall not have time to write by this opportunity to any of my 
 English brethren except yourself. Please to present my best respects to 
 all inquiring friends ; for I will presume that I have some who will inquire 
 for me. Let me be favored with a letter by the first opportunity. With 
 
 sentiments of the highest respect, 
 
 I am, etc., 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 In 1783 the public exercises of Commencement were re 
 sumed, on which occasion the Rev. Dr. Stillman preached 
 an animating sermon from Luke xv. 32 : " It was meet 
 that we should make merry and be glad ; for this thy 
 brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is 
 found." An account of this Commencement, and of the 
 proceedings of the subsequent meeting of the corporation, 
 may best be learned from a letter to Mr. Howell. It will 
 be observed that Manning again alludes to his purpose to 
 proceed to England to solicit funds for the college. In 
 reference to this matter we make the following extract 
 from the records of a meeting of the corporation held on 
 the 27th of January, 1783 : - 
 
 "President Manning laid before them a memorial setting forth the 
 smallness of the college funds, and the necessity of augmenting them to 
 preserve the institution from dissolution, and offered his services to travel 
 abroad to solicit donations for augmenting them as per memorial on file ; 
 which being duly considered by the members present, it was agreed to 
 
296 MANNING AND 
 
 CHAP. VII. 
 
 recommend to the President to proceed to solicit donations, as soon as a 
 proper person can be found to superintend the college in his absence ; and 
 that the secretary make out for him proper credentials, sealed with the 
 college seal and signed by the secretary." 
 
 The following is the " memorial," to which reference is 
 here made : 
 
 To the Honorable the Chancellor and the Members of the College in 
 
 Providence, convened by special request on Wednesday, the 25th of 
 
 December, 1782 : 
 
 GENTLEMEN : The present low state of the funds of the college, and 
 the consequent embarrassment of this corporation in conducting and ad 
 vancing the institution, are matters of too great notoriety to need eluci 
 dation. Any plan, therefore, which renders an augmentation of them 
 probable, I presume must meet your warmest approbation. The only 
 one which I can conceive can at present be adopted is, to appoint some 
 person, whom you shall judge qualified, to solicit benefactions of whom 
 and wheresoever he shall think proper, for the sole purpose of endow 
 ing the college or making suitable provision for tuition therein, withal 
 assuring the donors that the corporation have pledged their faith that 
 the interest only of the net proceeds of the money so collected shall be 
 appropriated, and that the principal shall be reserved as a perpetual fund. 
 
 Looking around amongst the friends of the college, I can find no one who 
 will undertake this arduous service unless I do it myself ; and though, at my 
 time of life, encumbered as I am with the cares of a family, the congrega 
 tion, and the college, together with the mortifications which must unavoida 
 bly attend the execution, I find it exceeding difficult to enter on the design ; 
 yet my strong attachment to the interests of the college has induced me, 
 for the want of a more suitable person, in the face of every difficulty to 
 offer my services, on the following conditions : That the corporation 
 shall, while on this service, discharge me from all duty in the college ; 
 that they furnish me with a proper authorization, and, out of the mon 
 eys I shall collect, pay me the sum of one hundred pounds lawful money 
 per annum, besides defraying all my necessary expenses ; that they 
 allow me the use of the college estate J as when at home, and leave it to 
 
 1 The house occupied by President Manning, and by his successors Maxcy and 
 Messer, and for a while by Way land, was built at the time of the erection of 
 
1780-1783. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 297 
 
 my judgment in what places and how long to pursue this object. And 
 should any difficulty arise concerning taking the moneys out of the gov 
 ernments where collected, it shall be left to my judgment how to dispose 
 of them to the best advantage of the corporation. 
 
 Should the above propositions be acceded to, as soon as I can adjust 
 my private concerns I engage, by divine permission, to begin and faith 
 fully pursue the business as long as there is, in my opinion, a prospect of 
 success. If it should be said that the state of war in which we are in 
 volved, the desolations of many parts of the country, the weight of taxes, 
 scarcity of money, and drought of the last summer, all militate against 
 this proposal, I freely grant the great force of all these arguments ; but 
 in my opinion matters are come to a point, and the question is not 
 whether there have not been and may probably hereafter be more favor 
 able times to collect money, but whether the college can be continued with 
 any degree of reputation without some speedy exertions. I confess I 
 think it cannot, and therefore necessity impels this measure. Besides, the 
 Baptist Associations, held the last fall in this town and in the city of 
 Philadelphia, lent a favorable ear to some proposals for augmenting the 
 college revenue ; but withal concluded that the only method to succeed 
 would be for me to follow them by a personal application. And I con 
 ceive the only time to obtain their money is when the people are willing 
 to part with it, whatever difficulty they may find in obtaining it. These 
 proposals, however, are cheerfully submitted to your better judgment, by, 
 gentlemen, 
 
 Your humble servant, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 This plan of President Manning, which was never car 
 ried into effect, owing doubtless to the difficulty in finding 
 a suitable person to take his place in the college and in 
 the church, is another of the many proofs of his ardent 
 desire to promote the interests of " religion and sound 
 learning," and of his willingness to make sacrifices in be 
 half of the institution over which he presided. But to the 
 letter : 
 
 University Hall. It stood where now is the old college pump, directly in front 
 of Harming Hall. 
 
298 MANNING AND CHAP. VII. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Sept. 13, 1783. 
 To THE HONORABLE DAVID HOWELL, 
 
 DELEGATE IN CONGRESS : 
 
 DEAR SIR : Last night brought me your favor of the 17th ult. ; by 
 some means it has had a long passage. Am much obliged for the intelli 
 gence you communicate. I with you hope our happy Constitution may be 
 preserved entire, and that place-men and pensioners may figure small under 
 it, whatever raised hopes may have been entertained by candidates. I wish 
 to know the event of the examination you mentioned, which was so full 
 of expectation on the part of the examined. I am glad to hear that you 
 are so happy in your colleague. I shall not be wanting in seconding your 
 wishes with respect to your son. He does not make a rapid progress in 
 language, but does much better than heretofore. He performed very well 
 the last public speaking. 
 
 Our public Commencement met the highest approbation of a most nu 
 merous assembly, amongst whom were the high Consul of France, the 
 Count dal Verme of Milan, and several English and Dutch merchants, 
 who were very liberal in their encomiums on the performers and perform 
 ances. It is generally thought, both by the friends of the cdllcge and 
 others, to equal if not exceed any we have ever had. And I am happy 
 to inform you that it seems to have inspired its friends with new life. Mr. 
 John Brown requested the corporation to ascertain the sum necessary to 
 procure a complete philosophical apparatus and libmry, and offered to 
 advance, forthwith, one half the sum, provided the corporation would 
 advance, or find ways and means to advance, the other half. It was found 
 impracticable to ascertain this exactly. He then offered to equal any sum 
 they could raise. A subscription was immediately set on foot, and pur 
 sued by Mr. Smith in the town the succeeding days, which amounted to 
 better than 340 ; and will, with Mr. John Brown s, equal, if not exceed, 
 700 lawful money. A catalogue of the library and apparatus is ordered 
 to be made out immediately. If you can assist us, by procuring from 
 your friends any large catalogues of books, or can yourself furnish one 
 both of the library and apparatus, we shall be happy to receive your as 
 sistance, as soon as possible. Governor Hopkins, Joseph Brown, Doc 
 tors Waterhouse and Drowne, Mr. Stillman and myself are appointed to 
 this service ; and we mean to have them prepared as soon as practicable. 
 Messrs. Stillman and Waterhouse, with the President, are appointed to 
 draft an address and petition to the King of France for his patronage of 
 the college, and a donation similar to that offered to Yale College, and 
 
1780-1783. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 299 
 
 forward it to you to use your influence with the Minister of France to get 
 his sanction of it, and to point out the proper way of access to his most 
 Christian Majesty, as soon as may be. And while it is preparing I am to 
 request you to feel the pulse of the Minister relative to it, and advise us 
 accordingly. -This matter is ordered to be kept a secret, and by the cor 
 poration, lest we should be interrupted. President Wheelock, on this 
 business for Dartmouth College, writes that he is likely to succeed equal 
 to his expectations. It was also voted that Mr. William Van Horn should 
 solicit benefactions to the southward of Pennsylvania, the President in the 
 Middle States, Kev. Benjamin Foster through New England, and Rev. 
 William Rogers go on the business to Europe. Mr. Foster I have since 
 seen. Ho informs mo that he cannot accept his appointment. Mr. Rog 
 ers has also intimated as much to me, in consequence of the ill state of 
 his wife s health, and I am again in the question for this service. The 
 great objection to this is, to have the college provided for in the interim. 
 All agree, if you should return at the beginning of winter, and will un 
 dertake, that the objection will be removed ; and I wish a line from you 
 on this subject as soon as possible, as it is thought necessary to proceed 
 to Europe this fall.. In short, we arc.detcrmined to make every possible ex 
 ertion to make the college respectable if possible. Dr. Drowne is chosen 
 Fellow in the room of Dr. Babcock ; Dr. Watcrhouse 1 has qualified also; 
 Welcome Arnold is chosen in the room of Governor Cook. 
 
 1 Dr. Benjamin Waterhousc was chosen a Fellow of the college in 1782. This 
 gentleman, says Prof. Goddard, whose brief sketch of him we in the main quote, 
 distinguished in the medical history of our country as " the American Jenner," 
 was born in Newport, 11. I. His father, originally a Presbyterian, embraced the 
 religious opinions of the Society of Friends, after he had reached mature life; 
 and to those opinions he remained sincerely attached till his death, at an ad 
 vanced age. His sou, to borrow his own language, " was born and educated 
 in the principles of liberal Quakerism." He never, however, adopted the pecu 
 liarities of that quiet and useful sect, nor was he accustomed to unite with them 
 in their religious worship. Dr. Waterhouse never received a college education ; 
 but few of our countrymen have been more frequently honored by distinctions 
 from literary and scientific bodies, at home and abroad. That his early academ 
 ical training was not neglected, is evident from his various publications, some of 
 which evince a familiarity with the learned languages. He was a pupil of the 
 celebrated Dr. Fothergill, of London, and he subsequently pursued his medical 
 studies at the famous schools of Edinburgh and Leyden. From the Leyden 
 school he received the degree of Doctor in Medicine. In 1783 he was appointed 
 Professor of the Theory and Practice of Medicine in Harvard University, and he 
 continued to perform the duties of that chair for the period of nearly thirty 
 
300 MANNING AND CHAP. VII. 
 
 Last Tuesday I attended the Association at Charlton. The convention 
 was large and unanimous. I discover a growing attachment to litera 
 ture, though by reason of the drought last year, etc., they had not com 
 plied with the request to raise money for the college, except Mr. Gair, 
 who produced 13. Several more had begun, and the recommendation, 
 is still continued, with some additional stimulus. The plenteous crop of 
 the present year, I hope, will enable the well disposed to lend us some 
 assistance. 
 
 We have chosen the device for a seal, which Dr. Drowne exhibited, with 
 the alteration of an enclosed instead of an open temple. Probably we 
 shall employ you to get it engraved at Philadelphia, if you will take the 
 trouble, as we expect it will be your winter residence. The subscription 
 I mentioned was in books, apparatus, and money. 
 
 Mrs. Anthony is here, who, with Mrs. Manning, was at your house yes 
 terday. They inform me your father is there, in a low state of health. 
 Your mamma Corn s also continues to decline. Mrs. Manning presents 
 her most respectful compliments to the honorable delegate, and Mrs. 
 Anthony requests me to do the same to the old gentleman. She returned 
 here from Boston last Monday. I had quite forgot to. tell you we did not 
 take up the consideration of our address to Congress for damages, etc., 
 done the college. We wish you to feel the pulse of your acquaintance 
 relative thereto ; and if there should be an opening, to give us the earliest 
 advice, that we may improve the opportunity to apply. With sentiments 
 of esteem, I am, sir, 
 
 Your very humble servant, 
 
 JAMES MAXXIXG. 
 
 In reference to the Count dal Verrae, to whom allusion 
 is here made, we find the following anecdote from the Hon. 
 Asher Robbins, quoted by Prof. Goddard, as an illustration 
 of the dignity and grace with which Dr. Manning was 
 
 years. This was among the earliest medical schools established in America. In 
 1784 Dr. Waterhouse was elected Professor of Natural History in Rhode Island 
 College, and while occupying this chair be delivered, in the State House in 
 Providence, the first course of lectures upon that science ever delivered in the 
 United States. The benevolent and intrepid agency of Dr. Waterhouse in intro 
 ducing vaccination into this country, is too well known to the public to need 
 more than a passing allusion. He died at an advanced age, in the year 1846. 
 
1780-1783. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 301 
 
 accustomed to preside at the annual Commencements. " I 
 recollect," he says, " that at one of our Commencements, a 
 French gentleman of distinction (I think he bore some 
 title of nobility) was present. He sat by Dr. Waterhouse, 
 and was, I think, introduced and presented by him. They 
 conversed together in Latin, either as, being learned men, 
 they chose to converse in a learned language, or as the 
 Frenchman being less perfect in English and the Doctor 
 in French, they found it more easy to converse in Latin. 
 Struck with the natural dignity and grace, the Frenchman 
 whispered to the Doctor, Natalia prcesidere (born to pre 
 side). I heard this from Dr. Waterhouse himself the next 
 day." 
 
 In looking over the records, we find that at a special 
 meeting of the corporation, held on the 7th of January, 
 1784, the address to which Manning in his letter to How- 
 ell refers, " drawn up by the Rev. Samuel Stillman and Dr. 
 Benjamin Waterhouse, was read and approved." 
 
 It was also at this meeting voted, " That the Chancel 
 lor, the President, Hon. Jabez Bowen, and Dr. Solomon 
 Drowne, be a committee to draft a letter to Dr. Benjamin 
 Franklin, to accompany the address to his most Christian 
 Majesty." 
 
 The following is the address, which we copy from an 
 original document now on file among the archives of the 
 University. The penmanship of the document, it may be 
 added, is remarkably clear and handsome, and the signa 
 tures to it are genuine. Some slight verbal alterations 
 rendered it necessary to prepare another, and hence this is 
 retained. A first draft, also, in the handwriting apparently 
 of Dr. Stillman, is on file. 
 
 SIRE : The Rhode Island College, studious of promoting literature, 
 and of disseminating that kind of knowledge which tendeth to impress 
 26 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. VII. 
 
 the minds of youth under their direction with such sentiments of benevo 
 lence as are circumscribed in no less bounds than the whole bulk of man 
 kind, look up to your Majesty, not only as a friend and promoter of such 
 knowledge, but also, like many of your illustrious ancestors, a patron of 
 those arts which polish humanity and exalt our natures. 
 
 With these sentiments we regard the monarch of France, and with all 
 deference beg leave to express our wishes of having a professor of the 
 French language and history in this our infant seminary, a thing we 
 ardently desire, but are unable to accomplish. 
 
 Ignorant of the French language, and separated as we were by more 
 than mere distance of countries, we too readily imbibed the prejudices of 
 the English, prejudices which we have renounced since we have had a 
 nearer view of the brave army of France, who actually inhabited this col 
 lege edifice ; since which time our youth seek with avidity whatever can 
 give them information respecting the character, genius, and influence 
 of a people they have such reason to admire, a nation so eminently 
 distinguished for polished humanity. 
 
 To satisfy this laudable thirst of knowledge, nothing was wanting but 
 to encourage and diffuse the French language ; and that not merely as the 
 principal means of rendering an intercourse with our brethren of France 
 more easy and beneficial, but also for spreading far and wide the history 
 of the so celebrated race of kings, statesmen, philosophers, poets, and 
 benefactors of mankind which France has produced. 
 
 As no king will be held by us in so lasting and so dear a remembrance, 
 so there is no name we are more desirous of repeating as the founder of 
 the French language and history in this country than your Majesty s, and 
 that too as much from gratitude to your Majesty as profit to ourselves. 
 
 From the scarcity of French books, our youth can at present only draw 
 their information from English writers, and not from the more pure 
 source, the French themselves. Our wish has therefore been to procure 
 a proper collection of the best French authors, and to establish a profes 
 sorship of the French language and history in the College of Rhode Island 
 and Providence Plantations ; but such have been the obstructions to learn 
 ing during the war, and the course of education so impeded, that the 
 edifice erected for the reception of the studious youth was granted by the 
 governors of the college as a hospital for the troops. These, together 
 with the calamities of the country, render it impossible for us to carry our 
 design into execution respecting French literature. 
 
 Regarding, therefore, your Majesty as a monarch endowed with quali- 
 
1780-1783. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 303 
 
 tics that add lustre to a crown, ever ready to patronize what is good and 
 useful, we presume to solicit your Majesty s assistance ; firmly believing 
 that whatever tends to make men wiser, better, and happier will meet 
 with your royal assistance and encouragement. 
 
 May the common Father of the universe bless our endeavors, and make 
 your Majesty the happy instrument of raising to us the literary genius of 
 France in ages past as from the dead. May sacred and unerring wisdom 
 ever be your guide, adorn you with every virtue, and crown you with 
 every blessing, that future ages may commemorate the happiness of your 
 reign with grateful admiration. 
 
 Signed by order and in behalf of the corporation, 
 
 STEPHEN HOPKINS, Chancellor. 
 JAMES MANNING, President. 
 PROVIDENCE, STATE OP RHODE ISLAND, Jan. 9, 1784. 
 
 This address was eventually put into the hands of 
 Thomas Jefferson by the Rhode Island Delegates to Con 
 gress, the matter having been intrusted to them. We 
 may be allowed to anticipate somewhat, and give the re 
 sult of the application, by publishing the following letter, 
 which we find in the second volume of Jefferson s Works. 
 
 PARIS, July 22, 1787. 
 To THE DELEGATES OF RHODE ISLAND : 
 
 GENTLEMEN : I was honored in the month of January last with a 
 letter from the honorable the delegates of Rhode Island in Congress, en 
 closing a letter from the corporation of Rhode Island College to his most 
 Christian Majesty, and some other papers. I was then in the hurry of 
 preparation for a journey into the south of France, and therefore unable 
 at that moment to make the inquiries which the object of the letter ren 
 dered necessary. As soon as I returned, which was in the last month, I 
 turned my attention to that object, which was the establishment of a pro 
 fessorship of the French language in the college, and the obtaining a col 
 lection of the best French authors, with the aid of the King. That neither 
 the college nor myself might be compromitted uselessly, I thought it neces 
 sary to sound, previously, those who were able to inform me what would 
 be the success of the application. I was assured, so as to leave no doubt, 
 that it would not be complied with ; that there had never been an instance 
 
304 
 
 MANNING AND CHAP. VII. 
 
 of the King s granting such a demand in a foreign country, and that they 
 would be cautious of setting the precedent ; that, in this moment, too, 
 they were embarrassed with the difficult operation of putting down all es 
 tablishments of their own which could possibly be dispensed with, in order 
 to bring their expenditures down to the level of their receipts. Upon such 
 information I was satisfied that it was most prudent not to deliver the 
 letter, and spare to both parties the disagreeableness of giving and re 
 ceiving a denial. The King did give to two colleges in America copies 
 of the works printing in the public press. But were this to be obtained 
 for the College of Khode Island, it would extend only to a volume or two 
 of Buffon s work still to be printed, Manilius s Astronomicon, and one 
 or two other works in the press which are of no consequence. I did not 
 think this an object for the college worth being pressed. I bog the favor 
 of you, gentlemen, to assure the corporation that no endeavors of mine 
 should have been spared could they have effected their wish, and that 
 they have been faithfully used in making the preliminary inquiries which 
 are necessary, and which ended in an assurance that nothing could be 
 done. These papers having been transmitted to me through your dele 
 gation, will, I hope, be an apology for my availing myself of the same 
 channel for communicating the result. 
 
 I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and 
 respect, gentlemen, 
 
 Your most obedient and most humble servant, 
 
 THOMAS JEFFERSON. 
 
 The most important business transacted at the annual 
 meeting of the corporation in 1783, was the confirming 
 and ratifying of a new digest of the college laws, which 
 had been carefully made by President Manning. A few 
 extracts from this digest may serve to illustrate the char 
 acter and liberal tendencies of the college, as also the 
 spirit of the times : 
 
 1 . No student shall be admitted into this college until he shall have 
 written out a correct copy of the laws of the college, or have otherwise 
 obtained them, and had them signed by the President and one or more 
 of the tutors, as the evidence of his admission ; which copy he shall keep 
 by him during his residence in college. 
 
1780-1783. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 305 
 
 2. Both before and after noon, and before nine o cloek in the evening, 
 the tutors in their turn shall duly visit the rooms of the students to 
 observe whether they be within and pursuing their studies ; and shall 
 punish all those who are absent without liberty or necessity. 
 
 3. The President and tutors, according to their judgments, shall teach 
 and instruct the several classes in the learned languages, and in the lib 
 eral arts and sciences, together with the vernacular tongue. 
 
 The following are the classes appointed for the first year, namely : In 
 Latin, Virgil, Cicero s Orations, and Horace, all in usurn Dclphini. In 
 Greek, the New Testament, Lucian s Dialogues, and Xenophon s Cyro- 
 peedia. For the second year, in Latin, Cicero dc Oratorc, and Caesar s 
 Commentaries ; in Greek, Homer s Iliad, and Longinus on the Sublime, 
 together with Lowth s Vernacular Grammar, Rhetoric, Ward s Oratory, 
 Sheridan s Lectures on Elocution, Guthrie s Geography, Kaimes s El 
 ements of Criticism, Watts and Duncan s Logic. For the third year, 
 Hutchinson s Moral Philosophy, Doddridge s Lectures, Fenning s Arith 
 metic, Hammond s Algebra, Stone s Euclid, Martin s Trigonometry, 
 Love s Surveying, Wilson s Navigation, Martin s Philosophia Britannica, 
 and Ferguson s Astronomy, with Martin on the Globes. In the last year, 
 Locke on the Understanding, Kennedy s Chronology, and Bolingbroke 
 on History; and the Languages, Arts, and Sciences studied in the fore 
 going years to be accurately reviewed. 
 
 4. Two of the students, in rotation, shall, every evening, after prayers, 
 pronounce a piece upon the stage ; and all the members of the college 
 shall meet every Wednesday afternoon in the hall, at the ringing of the 
 bell at two o clock, to pronounce before the President and tutors pieces 
 well committed to memory, that they may receive such corrections in 
 their manner as shall be judged necessary. 1 
 
 i In reference to this custom, which was continued down to a very late period, 
 with some modifications, the Hon. Tristam Burges, in his Address before the 
 Federal Adelphi, thus speaks: " You all remember the elevated advanced stage 
 where the speaker took his stand, when, under the supervision of the whole au 
 thority, surrounded by the entire collegiate assembly, awed by the continued and 
 pervading spirit of the hour and the occasion, he gave utterance to his own, so 
 soon as the last echo of the voice of devotion had ceased to whisper in the ear of 
 the listening audience. It was not to all the assembled Greeks, it was not at the 
 Olympic Games that he spoke; but the pupil who passed through this ordeal 
 under the eye of Manning or Maxcy, has never since that time, with more anx 
 iety prepared himself for any other, or gone through it with more fear and 
 trembling." 
 
 26* 
 
306 MANNING AND CHAP. TIL 
 
 5. It is not permitted any one, in the hours of study, to speak to 
 another, except in Latin, either in the college or college yard. 
 
 6. The Senior Class, when required, shall read a chapter out of the 
 Greek Testament into English, before morning prayers ; the President or 
 tutors calling on whom they think proper of the class to perform this 
 duty. 
 
 7. Every student shall attend public worship every first day of the week, 
 where he, his parents, or his guardians shall think proper, provided that 
 any who do not attend with any officer of instruction produce vouchers, 
 when demanded, of his steady and orderly attendance. 
 
 N. B. Such as regularly and statedly observe the seventh day as a 
 Sabbath, are exempted from this law, and are only required to abstain 
 from secular employments, which would interrupt their fellow-students. 
 
 8. Agreeably to the charter of this college, which enacts that Chris 
 tians of every denomination shall, without the least molestation in the 
 peculiarities of their religious principles, enjoy free liberty, etc., it is 
 ordered, that if any student of this college shall deny the being of a God, 
 the existence of virtue and vice, or that the books of the Old and New 
 Testaments are of divine authority, or suggest any scruples of this 
 nature, or circulate books of such pernicious tendency, or frequent the 
 company of those who are known to favor such fatal errors, or harass 
 and disquiet the minds of his fellow-students respecting any of the pecu 
 liarities of their Christian faith, by ridicule, sneers, scoffing, infidel sug 
 gestions, or in any other way, and shall continue obstinate therein after 
 the first and second admonition, he shall be expelled from the college. 
 
 Young gentlemen of the Hebrew nation are to be exempt from this law, 
 so far as it relates to the New Testament and its authenticity. 
 
 9. No student, except those who statedly attend the Friends meeting, 
 is permitted to wear his hat within the college Avails ; nor when speaking 
 to, or spoken to by, or is in company with an officer of instruction, unless 
 he be permitted by them to put it on. 
 
 10. The times of vacation shall be from September 6 to October 20, 
 from December 24 to January 24, and from the first Monday in May 
 three weeks. 
 
 1 1 . And whereas the statutes are few and general, there must necessarily 
 be lodged with the President and tutors a discretional or parental author 
 ity ; therefore, where no statute is particulary and expressly provided for 
 a case that may occur, they are to exercise this discretionary authority 
 according to the known customs of similar institutions, and the plain gen- 
 
1780-1783. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 307 
 
 cral rules of the moral law. And in general the penalties are to be of the 
 more humane kind, such as are at once expressive of compassion for the 
 offender and of indignation at the offence, such as are adapted to work 
 upon the nobler principles of humanity, and to move the more honorable 
 springs of good order and submission to government. 
 
 As a distinguished writer well remarks, the character 
 of institutions, and alike of nations, is best known from 
 their laws. We should be glad, therefore, did space allow, 
 to present further extracts from this interesting digest. In 
 the last paragraph, as above quoted, President Manning 
 may be supposed to have embodied his ideas in respect 
 to college government and discipline, which, says his pu 
 pil and successor, Dr. Maxcy, " was mild and peaceful ; 
 conducted by that persuasive authority, which secures 
 obedience while it conciliates esteem." 
 
 The old stock, so to speak, of students, having now be 
 come exhausted, there were no more public Commence 
 ments until the year 1786, at which time the Freshman 
 Class of 1782 were prepared to graduate. The progress 
 of events during this period can best be learned from Man 
 ning s correspondence, which we present in chronological 
 order. From the following letter to Mr. Kane, it appears 
 that his friend and former correspondent, the Rev. Benja 
 min Wallin, had made a bequest to the college. How large 
 this bequest was we cannot readily determine, as no men 
 tion of it is to be found in the records of the corporation. 
 
 TO ME. HENEY KANE, WALWOETH, NEAE LONDON. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Nov. 8, 1783. 
 
 SIR : I sympathize with you in the loss of your late venerable and 
 pious pastor, the Rev. Mr. Wallin. I hope the church may find some 
 Elisha to take his mantle, who, under the great Head of the church, may 
 build you up. I am pleased to find that in his last will and testament he 
 
308 MANNING AND CHAP. VII. 
 
 remembered the college. Mr. Mullett showed me the letter from you 
 to him on the subject of discharging or receipting the papers. Mr. 
 John Brown, our treasurer, who is empowered by the Trustees and Fel 
 lows to conduct all the money-matters of the corporation, has settled with 
 Mr. Mullett, as you will see by his receipt, attested by the Chancellor 
 and President. You may rely upon receiving his receipt at an early day. 
 The college has been dispersed during the war, but is again lifting up 
 its head. The damages it has sustained, and the low state of its funds, 
 call aloud for the assistance of its friends who are able to establish it. 
 It has not yet received a name, for want of some distinguished benefactor. 
 Such a person we should be glad to find amongst our friends in England 
 unto whom God in his providence has given wealth and influence. We 
 arc making an effort to do something here in America, but the burdens of 
 the war leave us but a gloomy prospect. The corporation have subscribed 
 near seven hundred pounds lawful money, six shillings to a dollar, towards 
 augmenting our little library and furnishing an apparatus, besides advanc 
 ing near one half of this sum out of their own pockets for the repairs of 
 the edifice. Every testimony of regard for it will be most thankfully re 
 ceived and acknowledged by the corporation, and especially by him who 
 has the honor to be, sir, 
 
 Your humble servant, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 TO THE EEV. JOHN EYLAND. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Nov. 8, 1783. 
 MY DEAR FRIEND : 
 
 It is long since I have had the pleasure of receiving a line from you, 
 but I congratulate you on the return of peace and the opening again of a 
 communication between England and America. I shall not at present 
 trouble you with my reasoning on this surprising revolution, but shall 
 only say that I am convinced that it is of God. To recount the distress 
 ing trials through which we have passed during the war, would but open 
 again the wounds and cause them to bleed afresh. I suppose Mr. Ryland 
 has no less affection for his American brethren than hithcrtofore, and 
 therefore take the liberty of addressing a line to him with the same free 
 dom as before. 
 
 The state of religion throughout America has been on the decline for 
 several vears, and the most destructive errors have prevailed, excepting 
 
1780-1783. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 309 
 
 a revival three or four years since in New England, and some favorable 
 appearances of late. I should have exceptcd, however, the frontier parts 
 of the country, for the wilderness has blossomed like the rose, and the 
 Baptist principles have greatly prevailed there. The college was broken 
 up for nearly six years, and the edifice devoted to the uses of the army. 
 It is again revived, and twelve students now belong to it. More are ex 
 pected. The edifice received great damage, but has been partially re 
 paired, at the private expense of the corporation, who have also subscribed 
 near 700 lawful money to augment our little library and procure an 
 apparatus. The catalogues are making out, and when ready will be for 
 warded to England to give our friends, with you, an opportunity of testi 
 fying afresh their attachment. We are making application also through 
 this continent to get what endowments we can for the college, but our 
 exhausted state promises little favorable. The college has the reputation 
 of contributing not a little to the interests of religion, not to say civil lib 
 erty. This has interested the Baptist society in general to look with a 
 more favorable eye upon literature. But the burden of taxes, with their 
 losses through the war, furnish them with arguments to withhold their 
 pecuniary assistance which the most able logicians cannot confute. Can 
 you find no gentleman of fortune among you who wishes to rear a lasting 
 monument to his honor in America ? If you can, direct his attention to 
 the Hill of Providence, in the State of Rhode Island, whereon an elegant 
 edifice is already erected, which waits for a name from some distinguished 
 benefactor. The corporation are determined to do this honor to its great 
 est benefactor. Should some English gentleman deign to become such, 
 it may serve to cement that union which I wish ever to see cultivated be 
 tween the two countries, notwithstanding our independence. I promise 
 myself your interest in finding such an one, if in your power. I must 
 refer you to a letter to Dr. Stcnnett of this date for a more particular 
 account of the state of affairs amongst us, as I have not time now to be 
 particular. I should be happy to receive one of your old-fashioned long 
 letters by the return of this vessel or the first which may come. It is prob 
 able there will be opportunity of transmitting letters as usual twice a year, 
 as the trade from Providence is again opened directly to London. I 
 should have written in the spring, but was absent when the vessel sailed. 
 Our dear friend Mr. Wallin is released from the field of labor, as I learn 
 by my letter from Dr. Stcnnett, who has done me the honor to begin a 
 correspondence, and requested me to continue it. With this request I 
 shall with pleasure comply. Please to present my Christian salutation to 
 
310 MANNING AND CHAP. TIL 
 
 your Avorthy family, especially to your son, Mr. John Ryland, Jr., from 
 whom a letter would be most acceptable to him who wishes you the high 
 est felicity, and is with every sentiment of esteem, dear sir, 
 
 Your unworthy brother and servant in the gospel, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 The Rev. Dr. Stennett, to whom Manning here refers, 
 thus writes under date of May 14, 1783 : 
 
 DEAR SIR: 
 
 It is a long time since I had the pleasure of hearing from you. Among 
 other evils that have been suffered from the late unhappy and unnatural 
 condition between this country and North America, the embargo that has 
 been laid upon epistolary correspondence is no inconsiderable one. But 
 this evil is now removed, and you will give me leave to congratulate you 
 on the event. We won t at present enter into the various political reason 
 ings concerning this extraordinary revolution. God is no doubt bringing 
 about his great purposes, and it is to be hoped that even during the late 
 perilous times the temple of the Lord has been building with you as well 
 as with us. 
 
 This letter my friend Mr. Mullctt, 1 brother-in-law to Mr. Caleb Evans 
 of Bristol, puts into your hands. He is a very worthy, sociable man, goes 
 over upon very considerable affairs of a mercantile kind, and will be 
 capable of giving you a variety of information. My brevity now, there- 
 
 1 Thomas Mullett, Esq., a merchant of the first respectability. He was a na 
 tive of Taunton, England, and died at Clapham, Nov. 14, 1814, in the sixty- 
 ninth year of his age. He possessed, says his biographer, an excellent under 
 standing, and was a firm friend to civil and religious liberty. The following 
 anecdote is related of him in Evans s Life of Richards : 
 
 " Thomas Mullett, Esq., was soon after the American war at Mount Vernon, 
 the seat of General Washington. Besides other flattering marks of attention, 
 Washington, when alone with him in his library, asked him if he had seen any 
 individual in that country who was competent to the task of writing a history 
 of the late unhappy contest. Mr. M. replied, with his usual presence of mind, 
 I know of one, and one only, competent to the task. The General eagerly 
 asked, Who, sir, can that individual be? Mr. M. remarked, Caesar wrote 
 his own commentaries! The General bowed, and replied, Cresar wrote his 
 own commentaries; but, sir, I know the atrocities committed on both sides have 
 been so great and many that they cannot be faithfully recorded, and had better 
 be buried in oblivion. " 
 
1780-1783. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 fore, you will excuse. It will be an opening, I hope, to a familiar, happy 
 correspondence between us. The state of religion with you, and of the 
 college in llhode Island, I should be glad to understand. Be so good as 
 to remember me affectionately to all our Christian friends, the ministers in 
 particular, Mr. Backus, etc., etc. 
 
 We have had many changes in our congregation by death ; but I hope 
 religion in our denomination is not on the decline. Of good Mr. Wallin s 
 death you have no doubt heard. His place is not yet supplied. My 
 health has of late been but indifferent, but through the goodness of God 
 it is now better. 
 
 I am just publishing a volume of discourses on domestic duties, one 
 of which either Mr. Mullett, or Mr. Stillman who, I take it, is still at 
 Boston will put into your hands. 
 
 You will excuse my hurrying manner at present, and be assured that I 
 am, very dear sir, 
 
 Your affectionate friend and brother, 
 
 SAMUEL STENNETT. 
 
 Manning s reply is one of unusual length, and seems to 
 have been written with special care. It is of itself a his 
 tory of the times during the American war : 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Nov.- 8th, 1783. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 Yours of May 14th was lately handed me by Thomas Mullett, Esq., 
 whom I find to justify, and more, the excellent character you gave him ; 
 though we have had but a small share of his agreeable company, owing 
 to his attention to his widely-extended mercantile concerns. I most 
 heartily rejoice to have a free communication again opened between Eng 
 land and America ; for this I have earnestly wished ever since its first 
 interruption. May heaven forbid its ever being again shut ! But I feel 
 peculiarly happy in the honor you have done me in the renewal of our 
 correspondence. I congratulate you on the restoration of your health, 
 and hope you may be long continued, a rich blessing to the church of 
 God. The flourishing state of our society with you is pleasing. 
 
 During some of the first years of the war, God was pleased to display 
 his power, in many parts of New England, in a glorious manner, and 
 thousands embraced the Baptist principles ; but those halcyon days soon 
 
312 MANNING AND CHAP. VII. 
 
 ended, since which has ensued an amazing apostasy. The delusion of 
 Rellcy, 1 in his book called the Union, etc., has been propagated with the 
 most astonishing success by John Murray. This doctrine of universal 
 salvation has been licked into various forms by its numerous zealous ad 
 vocates ; and as it so exactly coincides with the carnal mind, has been 
 sucked in by multitudes, among whom are not a few professors of religion, 
 with great avidity. 
 
 About the same time one Jemima Wilkinson, 2 near this place, who had 
 been educated amongst the Quakers, pretended that she had been dead, 
 reanimated with a celestial spirit, and endowed with an extraordinary, 
 commission from heaven to preach the gospel. She sometimes called 
 herself the Comforter ; and sometimes, when in an audience of great num 
 bers, pointing to herself, said that when Jesus Christ first appeared, he 
 came in the flesh of a man, but that he was now come in the flesh of a 
 woman. She has continued to traverse the country and publicly preach 
 ever since, accompanied with a number of disciples who do her homage 
 on their bended knees. Many have been carried away with her delusion, 
 and believe her to be the Saviour. But to close the rear, a number of 
 people, who came from the west of England about the commencement of 
 the war, under the direction of an old woman whom her adherents call 
 the Mother, the Elect Lady, etc., etc., pretend that the new dispensation has 
 taken place, and that they are the only and true church. They pretend 
 to absolve the sins of their disciples, and of course require particular con 
 fession to be made to them. Their particular worship consists in dancing, 
 turning round on the heel, jumping, singing, and embracing each other, 
 while they pretend to talk in unknown tongues, work miracles, etc., etc. 
 They interdict all intercourse between the sexes, declaring the marriage 
 contract void, and pretending to a state of absolute perfection. Some 
 carnal fruits, however, have inadvertently resulted from their chaste em 
 braces. And would you believe it 1 vast numbers of those who once 
 
 1 " Doctrine of union between Christ and bis Church. By James Relley." 
 8vo. London, 1731. 
 
 2 Jemima Wilkinson was born in Cumberland, 11. 1., about the year 1753. In 
 1789 she and her followers removed to Yates county, New York, where they 
 founded a colony. She exacted from her adherents the most complete submis 
 sion and the most menial services. After her death, which took place in July, 
 1819, the colony was broken up. A narrative of her life and character, by David 
 Hudson, was published at Geneva, N. Y., in 1821, making a duodecimo volume 
 of two hundred and twenty-eight pages. 
 
1780-1783. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 313 
 
 appeared serious, well disposed-persons, have followed their pernicious 
 ways. They are not to be reasoned with ; alleging that they know they 
 are right, and they will rave like madmen when opposed, ealling this 
 the effect of the Spirit of God. While these delusions on the one hand 
 attack the truth of the gospel, growing infidelity on the other lends all its 
 aid totally to subvert and destroy it, whilst the professed friends of it 
 seem too generally overwhelmed and in a deep sleep. This, you say, is 
 a dismal picture, but not more so than true. Yet there are those who 
 stand fast in the truth, and some late revivals encourage us to hope for 
 better days. One thing, however, is favorable, a spirit of toleration 
 more universally prevails throughout New England, and the doctrines of 
 religious as well as civil liberty are better understood by the people at 
 large, against any infractions of which they are determined to guard. 
 
 It was a glorious time of revival in our church when the war first 
 commenced, but when the town became a garrison, on account of the vi 
 cinity of the royal army on Rhode Island, the apprehensions of an attack, 
 and the daily alarms to which we were subjected, induced numbers of fam 
 ilies to retire into the more interior parts of the country, not only for safety 
 bat subsistence. This scattered our church and congregation abroad, which 
 has never been collected since, near fifty of our members not having yet 
 returned. These things, with the disinclination of many to attend public 
 worship from the example of the army, have greatly reduced us. It has 
 been a season of heavy trials with great numbers of our churches, several 
 of which have been almost totally dispersed. After all, when I view the 
 last eight years, and reflect on the amazing anxiety and distress through 
 which we have waded, and the astonishing goodness of God in preserving 
 so many of us to see the return of peace, I am lost in wonder ; especially 
 when I consider the ingratitude of our hearts towards our glorious Bene 
 factor. Thousands and thousands of families, once living in affluence, 
 have, by the war, been reduced to beggary. Sometimes famine, and 
 several times pestilence, as well as the sword, threatened to combine for 
 our destruction. But language fails in communicating my ideas. I 
 heartily wish you may never know by experience what it is to live in the 
 midst of war. 
 
 In the fore part of December, 1776, the royal army landed on Khode 
 Island, and took possession of the same. This brought their camp in 
 plain view from the college with the naked eye ; upon which the country 
 flew to arms and marched for Providence. There, unprovided with bar 
 racks, they marched into the college and dispersed the students, about 
 27 
 
314 MANNING AND CHAP. VII. 
 
 forty in number. After this the college continued to be occupied for a 
 barrack and a hospital alternately until June, 1782, when it was left in 
 a most ruinous situation. The corporation advanced out of their own 
 pockets near one thousand dollars for the most necessary repairs, and or 
 dered the course of education to recommence ; but under these circumstan 
 ces the number of students was small, as the former number had mostly 
 completed their education at other colleges, or turned their attention to 
 other objects. Last September, five young gentlemen, who had studied 
 with me in private, were admitted to the honors of the college at a public 
 Commencement. Their performances met such a universal approbation 
 of a numerous audience, as inspired the corporation with fresh zeal to 
 promote the institution. Mr. John Brown, the treasurer of the college, 
 offered to give a sum equal to what all the other members would sub 
 scribe, towards procuring an addition to our little library, and a philosoph 
 ical apparatus. By this means we obtained subscriptions for near 700 
 lawful money, six shillings to the dollar, and the catalogues are being 
 made out. This we propose to follow with an application to Europe, as 
 well as throughout America, for further benefactions. We have nomina 
 ted persons to this service, but we fear few if any of them will engage in 
 the work, on account of the difficulty of leaving home, and the fears of 
 not meeting a cordial reception in Great Britain. But I rejoice to find, 
 from late accounts, that our friends remain friends to the college, and 
 wish to know the state of it. This encourages us to solicit every assist 
 ance they can give, all of which we greatly need. I have the satisfaction 
 to find that it has, under all its disadvantages, been instrumental in greatly 
 promoting Baptist principles, and the spread of civil and religious liberty 
 throughout New England. Our number of students is twelve, and more 
 arc expected soon ; but the great objections Avhich operate against us are 
 the want of an apparatus and library, and the want of professors. Of 
 these advantages the old colleges amongst us can boast. Our library 
 consists of about five hundred volumes, most of which are both very an 
 cient and very useless, as well as very ragged and unsightly. 1 Our 
 prospects to remedy this, in America, arc at present very unpromising. 
 Last fall the state of the college was laid before the Associations in New 
 
 1 The friends of the college will observe the contrast between these five hun 
 dred " very ancient, very useless, and very ragged and unsightly volumes," and 
 the noble library of the present day, with its thirty-five thousand standard books 
 of approved editions, in choice and substantial bindings. 
 
1780-1783. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 315 
 
 England and Philadelphia, which strongly recommended to all the 
 churches to make collections for endowing it ; the same has been done 
 this year, from all which not 20 sterling has been raised, such is the 
 scarcity of money, the burden of taxes, and the reduced state of the coun 
 try. The society at large never before appeared so disposed to assist if 
 it were but in their power ; but, generally speaking, the Baptists here are 
 the poor of this world. 
 
 Several pious youth, who promise fair for the ministry, having picked 
 up some grammar learning, have applied to me to know whether any way 
 can open for their assistance in getting an education. This has led me to 
 think of a plan to assist such, and I have sketched out the following : 
 That the llev. Messrs. Samuel Stillman, Gardner Thurston, Isaac Backus, 
 John Gano, Hezekiah Smith, with the President, be a standing commit 
 tee of the corporation, and in case of the demise of any of them their num 
 ber to be filled up from time to time by themselves, who, or the major 
 part of them, shall examine and approve of such as shall be candidates to 
 receive the assistance which may be proffered to worthy characters in that 
 way, and to say in what proportions it shall be dealt out to them. It will 
 be easy to procure a vote of the corporation to invest this committee with 
 all necessary powers to discharge this trust ; and I have fixed upon men 
 whose doctrinal and practical principles, as well as their character in this 
 country, will entitle them to the highest confidence of benefactors to this 
 fund. I was long since convinced that a plan of this kind would be vastly 
 serviceable, and proposed it to some of my friends, whose only objection 
 against it was its interference with endowing the college, which was an 
 object of the greatest importance ; but I am of opinion that many would 
 be induced to give for this purpose who would not on any other consid 
 eration. Should a donation be offered, and these persons be mentioned 
 for the trust, in this way I have suggested, by some gentleman out of the 
 corporation, I am convinced that it would immediately take, and that 
 something considerable could soon be raised, which would be of standing 
 benefit to our churches, and more widely disseminate the knowledge of 
 truth. 1 Such has been the feeling, through New England, in favor of 
 
 1 The system of scholarships, inaugurated by President Sears, is based upon 
 the same general principles which Manning here develops ; with this difference, 
 however, that the scholarships are not of necessity Baptist in their character, or 
 confined exclusively to students who have or who may have in view the Chris 
 tian ministry. These points are left for the respective founders of scholarships 
 to determine. The majority of them, it may however be added, serve in carry- 
 
81 6 MANNING AND CHAP. VII. 
 
 a college education, that our pious illiterate ministers are greatly circum 
 scribed in their sphere of usefulness, of which many of them are sufficiently 
 sensible, and heartily wish their successors may be enabled to obviate this 
 objection. A great and effectual door is opened for the labors of Baptist 
 ministers throughout our vast, extended frontiers, and many new churches 
 have been lately constituted in that howling wilderness ; and indeed the 
 labors of our society seem there generally preferred. 
 
 I fear I have already trespassed upon your patience ; but you wished for 
 various information ; and you must consider this letter contains the sub 
 stance of a ten years correspondence. I shall be happy to have your 
 assistance and patronage of the college, and your opinions on the subjects 
 proposed by the first opportunity. I had forgot to mention that, amidst 
 the wreck of public credit, we have been so fortunate as to preserve, un- 
 diminished, our little fund, though as yet, from the exhausted state of the 
 treasury, which has operated greatly to my personal disadvantage, we 
 
 ing into effect precisely these views of President Manning. At the meeting of 
 the Warren Association held in the year 1791, the Rev. Dr. Stillman presented 
 a plan, which, he stated, he had received from a friend, for establishing a char 
 itable fund, " for the purpose of assisting such young men of the Baptist denom 
 ination as may appear to be suitably qualified for the ministry,with a collegiate 
 education." Who this friend was we cannot positively state, but we have no 
 doubt whatever in regard to the source whence the plan itself originated. After 
 a second reading it was unanimously adopted by the Association, and a board of 
 trustees, consisting of twelve, was chosen. This board was styled, " Trustees 
 of the Baptist Education Fund. It was required that " so many of the Baptist 
 Fellows of Rhode Island College who are members of churches shall be trustees 
 of this fund, : the remaining number to be chosen by ballot from and by the 
 Warren Association. Of the college Fellows on the board, were Dr. Stillman 
 of Boston, Dr. Smith of Haverhill, Ilev. William Williams of Wrentham, Dr. 
 Maxcy, President of the College, and Robert Rogers, Esq., of Newport. Those 
 elected by the Association, were Dr. Backus of Middlcborough, Dr. Baldwin 
 of Boston, Rev. Joseph Grafton of Newton, Rev. Noah Alden of Belliiigham, 
 Ilev. Thomas Green of Cambridge, Rev. George Robinson of Bridgewater, and 
 Ilev. Isaiah Parker of Harvard. 
 
 In February, 1794, the society thus commenced was duly incorporated by the 
 Legislature of Massachusetts. In 181G a separate organization was formed, which, 
 in 1823, was incorporated under the name of " The Baptist Education Society of 
 the Warren Association." At this time the funds, now amounting to S3GOO, were 
 equally divided between this society and the Boston Association, which had 
 been formed in the year 1811. Hence the origin and present funds of the society 
 now known as the Rhode Island Baptist Education Society. 
 
1780-1783. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 317 
 
 have not been able to command any interest. I have the assistance of a 
 tutor, and a grammar master keeps school in the college edifice. 
 
 I cannot say in what light you view the American Revolution, but to 
 serious people here it appears to be of God ; and if the counsels of Great 
 Britain are conducted with wisdom and moderation, it will in the issue be 
 of no disadvantage to her in a national view. In a religious view I am 
 certain it should not operate to produce any discord among the subjects 
 of that Prince whose kingdom is not of this world. As far as my ac 
 quaintance extends, I am convinced that, on our part, the former attach 
 ment still continues ; and I am sure I have as little reason to doubt it on 
 yours. 
 
 Mr. Mullett was kind enough to put into my hands your volume on do 
 mestic duties, and I heartily thank you for the pleasure which the peru 
 sal of it gave me. I wish there were more of them in this country. They 
 are greatly needed, and I think would sell. Before the Avar, for supply 
 ing the college and my friends, I kept a small assortment of books, which 
 I yearly imported from London. I still mean to do the same, and have 
 thought of getting a number of our Baptist authors for the supply of our 
 society in different parts of the country. I think there has not been suffi 
 cient attention paid to our own writings by our own people. Should you 
 think proper to send any of your works for that purpose, on the same 
 terms which booksellers with you have them, I shall exert myself to sell 
 them, and directly remit you the money. I have mentioned my letter to 
 you to Dr. Llewelyn, to whom, if you please, you may show it, and also 
 to Mr. Ryland, and any other friend who may, in your opinion, be dis 
 posed to serve the college, or wish for the information which it contains. 
 By every opportunity I shall be happy to receive letters from Dr. Stennett. 
 With sentiments of esteem, I am, dear sir, 
 
 Your brother in Christ, 
 
 JAMES 
 
 The distinguished scholar to whom the following let 
 ter is addressed died on the 7th of August, three months 
 previous to its date. What he would have done for the 
 college had he lived, cannot of course be determined. It 
 is certain that his feelings towards the institution were 
 friendly. In the original subscription book of Morgan Ed 
 wards, his name appears as the largest subscriber on the 
 27* 
 
318 MANNING AND CHAP. VII. 
 
 list. Among the duplicate books presented to the library 
 by the Bristol Education Society, we notice a fine uncut 
 copy of the "Biographia Britannica," in seven volumes 
 folio, a gift from Llewelyn, who bequeathed his library to 
 that society. It contains his book-mark, and states the 
 time of his death. 
 
 TO THOMAS LLEWELYN, LL.D., LONDON. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Nov. 8, 1783. 
 
 SIR: By Thomas Mullett, Esq., for whose agreeable acquaintance 
 I am indebted to an introductory line from Dr. Stennett, I had the pleas 
 ure of hearing that you are yet alive, and, though in a declining state of 
 health, are still protracting your usefulness in the cause of the Redeemer 
 and the best interests of mankind. Your known zeal in promoting the 
 Baptist society for a series of years, your ability to serve it, and the de 
 sire you expressed, in his hearing, of knowing the state of the college at 
 Providence, have encouraged me to address you on this subject, at once 
 to give that information and to solicit your patronage of an institution 
 which has already, in the minds of unbiased judges, greatly disseminated 
 the knowledge of civil and religious liberty through this country, and 
 added respectability to the Baptist profession. Bleeding with the wounds 
 of war, it now solicits the relief which the benevolent and opulent alone 
 can afford. 
 
 From its first establishment until the commencement of the late unnat 
 ural war, it gradually increased in the number of students, which at that 
 time was about forty. It then began to attract the attention of the public, 
 and bid fair to have been greatly augmented in numbers, as many were 
 then preparing with a design to complete their education here. This town 
 becoming a frontier, in the year 1776, the troops took possession of the 
 edifice, to which purpose it continued to be appropriated until June, 1782. 
 Great waste and destruction, you will naturally conclude, were made upon 
 it by men whose profession has destruction for its object. To repair the 
 edifice the corporation advanced money out of their own pockets, as also 
 to fit up some rooms for the accommodation of students who are likely to 
 enter soon. The number of these is now twelve, and more are soon ex 
 pected. In short, we want nothing but a proper endowment to enable us 
 to furnish a suitable library and apparatus, and properly support able 
 
1780-1783. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 319 
 
 instructors, to render the college very respectable ; the grand objection 
 against it is the want of these things, of which they can boast at other col 
 leges. Those inimical to our profession are exceeding vigliant to prevent 
 its growth, from an idea of its importance to the Baptist cause. Hitherto 
 a very great part of our society in this country have been by no means 
 friendly to it ; but many have altered their opinion, and would assist if 
 they could ; but, reduced by the war and the weight of taxes, at present 
 they can only wish it well. Cambridge college was so fortunate as to at 
 tract the attention of a Hollis, New Haven of a Yale, and New Hamp 
 shire of a Dartmouth, who have given their names to these seats of learn 
 ing. We should think ourselves no less happy in the patronage of a 
 Llewelyn. Llewelyn College appears well when written, and sounds no less 
 agreeably when spoken. Nor do I know a name which it would please 
 me better to hear extolled on our public anniversaries as the founder of 
 the institution. The charter, one of which I beg leave to present to you, 
 empowers the corporation to give the college a name in honor of its most 
 distinguished benefactor, which they are resolved to do. I know your 
 philanthropy and principles of liberty would not suffer you to object that 
 we are now become independent of the British empire. You too well 
 know that necessity, dire necessity impelled to this measure a people 
 whose feelings revolted at the idea upon any other ground. Besides, sub 
 jects of the Prince of peace cannot approve of strong local attachments. It 
 is the ardent wish of the human mind to establish a permanent fame. As 
 this appears to be a passion natural to man, so it is doubtful whether he 
 feels a stronger, or one that ceases to influence him later. And what can 
 more effectually gratify this predominant affection, than the grateful 
 recollection of the latest posterity that we have laid foundations for 
 improving the human intellect, disseminating useful knowledge, and prop 
 agating the gospel of peace over almost half the globe ? If we con 
 sider the rapid progress of religion, letters, government, and arts in this 
 new world, where on earth can a theatre be erected, from which the hu 
 man character can be exhibited to better advantage (in largely contribut 
 ing to the progress of religion, society, and manners) than in America ? 
 But you, sir, need only consider that patronizing this college will directly 
 contribute to the propagation of the gospel of Christ in its simplicity to 
 bestow upon it your friendship. Of the prospects of this I have given 
 some hints to Dr. Stennett, in a letter of this date, to which I refer you, 
 as I have desired him to communicate the contents of it to his friends, 
 and those of the college, particularly requesting him to show it to Dr. 
 
^ u MANNING AND CHAP. VII. 
 
 Llewelyn. Therein I have mentioned the state of our library, apparatus, 
 fund, etc. The whole interest of the latter does not amount to more, if 
 so much as ,60 sterling per annum. We propose to forward our cata 
 logue as soon as it is ready, and invite our friends to lend us their assist 
 ance in purchasing the books. Should your views be different from mine 
 in reference to the premises, I beg your forgiveness for troubling you on this 
 subject through my zeal for .ae college ; but should you think favorably 
 of the proposal, you will do a singular favor to a grateful corporation, the 
 Baptist society in America, and I doubt not to remote posterity, but to 
 none more than to him who, with every sentiment of esteem, has the 
 honor to subscribe himself, sir, 
 
 Your friend and servant in the gospel of Christ, 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 The Warren Association, at its meeting this year, to 
 which Manning in his correspondence alludes, prepared 
 an address to their " friends and countrymen," which 
 presents a faithful picture of the times at the close of 
 the war, and exhibits in a pleasing light the views and 
 prospects of the Baptist denomination. We cannot resist 
 the temptation to introduce here the closing paragraphs. 
 They have special reference to the college, and show how 
 intimate, formerly, were the relations which it sustained to 
 the churches : 
 
 " Permit us to add a word concerning education, and we shall have 
 done. In Genesis xvii. God made a covenant with Abraham, which con 
 stituted a church in his household, who had a large grant of choice lands 
 that in due time they were to take possession of by destroying the heathen 
 inhabitants ; and as long as that state continued, they were to make a 
 visible difference in commerce and government, as well as worship, be 
 tween the circumcised and all other people in the world. In the same 
 church the priests were to have the whole government in worship, and 
 were also to declare what the sentence of the law was in capital cases ; 
 and the judges were to carry the same into execution (Deut. xvii. 8-12). 
 When Christ came lie fulfilled the law, and abolished those distinctions 
 among men ; and constituted his church upon a better covenant estab- 
 
1780-1783. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 321 
 
 lishcd upon better promises. His word calls said covenant with Abraham 
 the covenant of circumcision (Acts vii. 8), but in after ages deceitful 
 men took away that name, and called it the covenant of grace ; into which 
 they essayed to bring children before they believed, or could choose for 
 themselves. And all colleges and superior places of learning were en 
 tirely under the command of such men for many centuries ; by which 
 means, natural affection, the force of education, temporal interest, and 
 self-righteousness, all conspired together to bind people in that way ; 
 wherein the orthodox have claimed a right to treat all others as others 
 have not a right to treat them. But a college is now erected at Provi 
 dence upon a plan of equal liberty, where education is to be had without 
 any sectarian or party tests. Other colleges have been erected and much 
 of their expense borne by governments ; but this has been done entirely 
 by personal generosity ; and some men of influence have tried to crush 
 it ; therefore it calls loudly, to all lovers of knowledge and liberty, to 
 contribute their mite towards its necessary support." 
 
CHAPTEE VIII. 
 
 1784-1785. 
 
 Letter to Manning from the Rev. Dr. Rippon, of London Most of the Baptist 
 ministers in England on the side of America in the war Manning s reply to 
 Rippon Apostasy of Rev. Elhauan Winchester Sketch of Hon. Asher 
 Robbins Baptists compelled to contribute to the support of Pedobaptist 
 worship in Massachusetts and Connecticut Resolution of the Warren Asso 
 ciation in reference thereto Letter to Rev. Thomas Ustick on the subject 
 Sketch of Rev. Elhanan Winchester His troubles with the Baptist 
 church in Philadelphia Letter to Rev. Dr. Smith William Wilkinson and 
 the College Grammar School Extract from the Providence Gazette respect 
 ing the transfer of the school from the College to the brick schoolhouse 
 Letter to Rev. Dr. Caleb Evans, of Bristol, England Condition of the Col 
 lege Efforts to add to its funds and to increase its library Evans s reply 
 to Manning Illustration of Manning s numerous and perplexing cares 
 Letter from Rev. A. Booth Manning s reply Letter to Rev. John Ry- 
 land, Jr. Letter to Rev. Dr. Rippou, introducing Dr. Solomon Drowue, of 
 Providence Sketch of Dr. Drowne Letter to Hon. David Howell, in 
 Congress Letter to Rev. Thomas Ustick Degree of Doctor in Divinity con 
 ferred on Manning by the University of Pennsylvania Second letter to 
 Hon. David Howell Letter to Thomas Mackaness, Esq., of London Man 
 ning s plan to establish a library for the Baptist Association in Kentucky 
 Letter to Rev. Dr. Evans Manning s philanthropic efforts to enlighten the 
 illiterate Baptist ministers of Kentucky and Virginia Letter to Manning 
 from Hon. Granville Sharp, of London Manning s reply Ecclesiastical 
 matters pertaining to the Episcopal Church Letter to Rev. Dr. Rippon 
 Biographical sketch of Rev. Stephen Gano Character of Hon. Stephen 
 Hopkins, the first Chancellor of the College Letter from Rev. Dr. Evans 
 announcing a donation of books to the College Library from the Bristol Edu 
 cation Society Character of the donation and of the aforesaid Society 
 Letter to Hon. David Howell, in behalf of the Corporation, urging him to use 
 his influence with the members of Congress in favor of a petition for indem 
 nity for injuries which the college building sustained during the war Death 
 of Hon. Joseph Brown Correspondence between Manning and John Gill, 
 of London, respecting the publications of Rev. Dr. John Gill List of Dr. 
 Gill s published works Pleasant bibliographical " morceau " respecting the 
 first volume of Backus s Ecclesiastical History. 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 323 
 
 THE following letter is from the Rev. Dr. John Rippon, 
 of London, successor of the Rev. Dr. Gill. The remarka 
 ble statement which he makes, that all the Baptist ministers 
 in London but two, and most of the Baptist clergy in the 
 country, were on the side of the Americans in the " late 
 dispute," as he mildly terms the war, is as gratifying to us 
 of the present day as it doubtless was to Manning and 
 his friends. The reader of the correspondence now be 
 gun will readily perceive that Dr. Rippon, from his char 
 acter and position, was well qualified to judge of the 
 views and feelings of his brethren in matters of public 
 moment. 
 
 GRANGE ROAD, SOUTHWARK, May 1, 1784. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 I have long wished for an opportunity of introducing myself to you, 
 and to several other brethren on your side of the Atlantic. And as God 
 in his wisdom has now put an end to the late bloody and unrighteous 
 war, and opened a free communication between this country and America, 
 I take the liberty, by the hands of your neighbor Mr. Chase (who speaks 
 in the highest terms of you, Messrs. Stillman Gano, etc.), of soliciting 
 such a Christian correspondence as your wisdom may suggest, and your 
 large connections and many avocations may permit. 
 
 To describe myself is a work less proper than what I wish to be em 
 ployed in ; but as it is probable my name has never reached your ears, it 
 may not be altogether improper to hint that I was born at Tiverton, in 
 Devonshire, about forty miles from Plymouth, and about sixteen from 
 Upottery, where my father is minister. I was called by grace, I trust, 
 when about sixteen years of age, became a student at Bristol under the 
 Rev. Messrs. Hugh and Caleb Evans when I was between seventeen and 
 eighteen, and continued there between three and four years. After the 
 death of Dr. Gill, I was invited thence to town as a probationer amongst 
 his people, and with them have been comfortably settled as pastor for 
 more than eleven years. The church now consists of about three hun 
 dred members, many of whom arc very lively, affectionate, and evangeli 
 cal. The declaration of their faith and practice, which they made at their 
 admission, is at the close of the three volumes of sermons and tracts ac- 
 
324 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 companying this, your acceptance of which will do me an honor, if you 
 consider them as a small token of the great affection I bear you as a 
 faithful and honored servant of our illustrious Master. 
 
 Whatever scepticism attacks my mind, of this I am certain, that there 
 are brethren in your country " whom not having seen I love." This has 
 frequently turned to me for a testimony of my having passed from death 
 unto life. Nor did I least of all experience this in the year 1780, when 
 Mr. Wallin (who left earth for heaven in the beginning of the year 1783) 
 received a letter from Boston containing an account of a great revival 
 through New England, and in which it was said Mr. Winchester was very 
 instrumental. I sent this account to Mr. Evans, of Bristol, and he printed 
 an extract from it in the following Western Association letter. It afforded 
 a joy amongst many churches better felt than described. Some of us 
 thought with pleasure on Isa. lix. 19. But, alas ! the next account we 
 hear is that this useful man has wofully changed his sentiments. Lord, 
 what is man ! A sermon of Mr. Wallin s, called the " Outcasts Com 
 forted," on Isa. Ixvi. 5, has been reprinted here, with an appendix said 
 to be written by one Clarke, a mystic. It contains observations on the 
 seventh trumpet, and a dissertation on the altar of brass called Ariel, etc. 
 My heart has been grieved for the good man, and I have wept in secret 
 places on his account. Is it true that *Mr. Morgan Edwards, to whom I 
 intend writing soon, has printed a book in vindication of him? 
 
 I believe all our Baptist ministers in town, except two, and most of our 
 brethren in the country, were on the side of the Americans in the late 
 dispute. But sorry, very sorry were we to hear that the college was a 
 hospital, and the meeting-houses were forsaken and occupied for civil or 
 martial purposes. We wept when the thirsty plains drank the blood of 
 your departed heroes, and the shout of a king was amongst us when 
 your well-fought battles were crowned with victory. And to this hour 
 we believe that the independence of America will for a while secure the 
 liberty of this country ; but that if the continent had been reduced, Britain 
 would not long have been free. 
 
 The last Warren Association letter that I have seen is dated 1779. It 
 came with Mr. Backus s History, Since then many important things 
 must have happened, and it may be there is much good news to be con 
 veyed to us respecting our sister churches in the wilderness. Glad should 
 I be to hear of the success of the gospel and of the prosperity of the 
 college. When shall the priests of Zion be clothed with salvation, and 
 her saints shout aloud for joy ? O Lord, let " thy kingdom come," let it 
 
1781-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 325 
 
 spread through all the world, and particularly let it come in my heart, 
 and in the heart of thy honored servant for whom these lines are de 
 signed. 
 
 If I am not mistaken, the Baptist interest in this country is more 
 flourishing than the Presbyterian or Independent. In most of our churches 
 there is a cordial attachment to the truth as it is in Jesus, attended with a 
 greater liberality towards others who differ from us than was formerly 
 expressed. May a Christian contention for the truth and a general 
 Catholicism forever walk hand in hand, that unconverted men may have 
 reason again to say, " See how these Christians love ! " 
 
 This afternoon I have been employed in packing books as follows : 
 Gill s Sermons and Tracts, 3 vols., blue boards, for yourself; do., in 
 sheets, for that much respected man, Mr. Stillman, of Boston ; a dozen 
 of Watts s Hymns and Psalms, and half a dozen Bibles and as many 
 Testaments, to be disposed of as you think best. Gill should have been 
 bound neatly; but as Mr. Chase is likely to sail Monday morning-, it 
 cannot be done. Will you do me the favor of making this apology to Mr. 
 Stillman if I have not time to write him, as I fear I shall not, for it is 
 Saturday evening, nine o clock, now, and it was past eight before I began 
 this hasty scrawl. 
 
 With the above I have sent three prints, one of the Rev. Dr. Gill, an 
 other of the late Rev. Hugh Evans, my much esteemed tutor, and another 
 of myself. I have not time to get them glazed and packed. The first 
 two deserve a respectful place in the college, and the last courts no situ 
 ation but a place of solitude under your hospitable roof. I shall be much 
 obliged to you to circulate the proposals which relate to Saurin and Claude, 
 and to notice the advertisement of Gill s books which I have sent. If 
 any of your friends want any of them, I can procure them at bookseller s 
 price, considerably cheaper than the printed list. It will rejoice me to be 
 of any service to them, and more especially if they arc poor ministers. I 
 have not time to read this over now, as a person has been waiting for it 
 while I write. Excuse my haste. Remember me respectfully, if you 
 please, to Mr. Howell, your assistant. Pray for me, write me the first op 
 portunity, and be assured I think it a great felicity to have any good 
 reason to subscribe myself, 
 
 Your affectionate brother and servant, 
 
 JOHN RIPPON. 
 
 P. S. I am this- week thirty-three years of age. 
 28 
 
326 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 To this letter Manning replies : - 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Aug. 3, 1784. 
 EEVEKEND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 I have now before me your most acceptable favor of May 1, for which 
 I return you many thanks, as well as for the package and its agreeable 
 contents. I felicitated myself on a large and free correspondence with 
 Christian friends in England on the return of peace, and accordingly 
 wrote to Mr. Wallin, from New York, at the first dawn of it, but soon after 
 received information that he had rested from his labors. By the first ves 
 sel from the State this was followed by letters to Drs. Stennctt and Lle 
 welyn and Mr. Ilyland ; but these, I conjecture from your letter, never 
 reached them, since they contained such information as I judged would 
 be wished for by our brethren on your side of the water, and such as in 
 your letter you request. Nothing could be more agreeable than the cor 
 respondence you propose, which I shall endeavor to keep up with the 
 greatest punctuality. Your letter did not give me the first information of 
 your name, etc., as Mr. Wallin had favored me with the sermon and 
 charge delivered at your settlement. But the interruption of all inter 
 course by means of the war, left me in a great measure ignorant of the 
 state of our churches and ministers in England, until Dr. Stennett s letter, 
 last fall, by Mr. Mullett, and a short acquaintance with Capt. Thomas 
 Mesnard last May in New York, who gave me such a pleasing idea of 
 Mr. Eippon, that I requested him to present my Christian salutation, and 
 inform him that a letter would be highly pleasing to your unknown friend. 
 
 Your letter, it appears, was then written in consequence of Mr. Chase s 
 recommendation, to whom I am obliged for his favorable opinion. As 
 soon as the package of books and the prints came safe to hand, Mr. Still- 
 man s were sent forward, together with his letter, and I shall distribute 
 the Bibles, Testaments, Psalms and Hymns as I think will be most ser 
 viceable to the poor. The proposals for Dr. Gill s, Saurin s, and Claude s 
 works I have circulated ; but the impoverished state of the country, and 
 the disinclination to reading books on religious subjects, presage but a 
 small sale at present. Some, however, will, I expect, be wanted, for 
 which I shall expect your kindly proffered services. I most heartily re 
 joice at your success in the ministry, and the happy state of the church of 
 which you are pastor. May the Lord continue to strengthen you for his 
 service, and honor you with many more seals of your ministry. You 
 speak the language of my heart towards brethren in your country when 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 you express your affectionate regard for us. I conceive this results from 
 the very nature of the religion of Jesus. Often has this prompted me to 
 plan a voyage to Europe ; but such have hitherto been, and most proba 
 bly will continue to be, my embarrassments, that I shall be denied this 
 privilege ; but I hope to meet the whole family at home, and forever enjoy 
 their improving society above when our labors on earth are finished, 
 prints of Dr. Gill and Rev. Hugh Evans shall have a respectful place : 
 the college, and as I daresay Mr. Rippon loves good company, he will 
 excuse me for placing his there also. Not that I am unwilling to furnish 
 it and its agreeable original, with the best accomodations my house can 
 afford, for this I should esteem a peculiar favor; but as I promise mysel 
 your future patronage of the college, I know of no place so suitable as 
 
 that. 
 
 The apostasy of Mr. Winchester has been for a lamentation am 
 us. Self-exaltation was the rock on which he split. Though he had 
 from the first been remarkable for instability of character, he inflicted a 
 grievous wound on the cause, especially in Philadelphia ; but I think he is 
 now at the end of his tether. His interest is declining, which will most 
 probably prove a deadly wound. I saw him last May, and from his ap 
 pearance think he has nearly run his race. His state of health will not 
 admit of his preaching, and by a letter last week from the Rev. Thomas 
 Ustick, who now supplies the pulpit in Philadelphia, I learn that Win 
 chester and his friends have lost the case in their suit for the meeting-house 
 and the property of the church. It really appeared that God owned his 
 labors in the revival in New England. Perhaps for attempting to take 
 the glory to himself, He has laid him aside as an improper instrument for 
 his work, who justly challenges the whole of it as his own. Erom common 
 fame, and from what I myself saw, I really think this to be the case. 
 
 Mr. Morgan Edwards has not printed in vindication of his principles, 
 but he read me a manuscript more than a year since on that subject, which 
 he did not own, though charged then with being the author. He did not 
 deny it ; whereby he was entreated not to add the printing of this to the 
 long list of imprudent things which had already so greatly grieved his 
 friends and so injured his reputation. This plainness did not please him, 
 but I thought the use of it was duty. 
 
 Enclosed I send you the minutes of the Eastern Association since the 
 year 1779 ; and as I flatter myself that my letters must have reached Dr. 
 Stennett, etc., before this, I refer you to the information which they con- 
 tain, observing in general that at the commencement of the war the glo- 
 
328 M A N N ING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 rious revival in which the college and the town of Providence, as well as 
 many places adjacent, had so largely shared (during the continuance of 
 which, in the course of a year, I baptized more than a hundred persons), 
 began to decline ; and except the visitation you refer to in your letter, the 
 state of religion, saving in the frontier parts, has been on the decline until 
 about the close of the war, since which public worship is better attended, 
 and many souls have of late been hopefully converted. On a visit to 
 New York and the Jerseys, the last spring, I found the people anxious for 
 the word, and hopeful appearances in almost every place where I was 
 called to preach. By a letter the last week I find the work increases, es 
 pecially under the ministry of Mr. Wilson, a young minister resident at 
 Bordentown in AYcst Jersey, and my Brother Gano in New York. As 
 Mr. Backus is here, I prevailed on him to give a sketch of the reformation 
 between two and three hundred miles cast of us, of which he has had some 
 direct and late accounts. This, for your satisfaction, I also enclose. 
 Lord s Day sennight I conversed with a person from there, who professed 
 to be a subject of the work. He gave a most remarkable account of the 
 display of God s power and grace amongst them. In general our churches 
 appear to stand steadfast in the doctrines of grace; and indeed the Bap 
 tist churches are almost left alone in defending them against Arminians 
 and Universalists, as our brethren of other denominations who are sound 
 appear much discouraged. I believe I may say with truth, that the Bap 
 tist society in America increases more rapidly than any other religious 
 denomination ; but in general we arc the poor of the world. God grant 
 that we may be rich in faith. 
 
 I rejoice to hear that our Baptist brethren in England sympathized with 
 us in our deep affliction. Our blood indeed was wantonly shed, of this 
 I have been a deeply interested spectator, but I trust God meant it for 
 good. I think I can say that I never in one instance doubted the justice 
 of our cause, and I desire to bless God that I never thirsted for the blood 
 of those who were shedding ours. But I wish to banish from my mind 
 those scenes of horror. 
 
 Brotherly kindness prevails more amongst the several denominations 
 throughout New England than heretofore, and of course the prejudices 
 against the Baptists are greatly abated. Nothing is more common than 
 the most cordial invitations into the pulpits of the Pedobaptists when I 
 travel through the country. I rejoice to hear that the same spirit prevails 
 with you. Union in Christ, in my opinion, should lead his disciples to 
 the strongest expressions of love towards one another. 
 
1784-1785 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 329 
 
 The college edifice suffered greatly by the troops, who had it in posses- 
 sion nearly six years. To repair these damages has been a difficult task, 
 while denied compensation from the public, and destitute of funds for 
 that purpose. The members of the corporation have repeatedly submit 
 ted to make such partial repairs as were absolutely necessary to its pres 
 ervation. With all these difficulties to combat, it begins, however, again 
 to revive. It now consists of twenty-two members, and we expect an ad 
 dition of several more this fall. Mr. Howell, my former colleague, has 
 been for several years in the civil departments, and is now in the Conti 
 nental Congress, where he has been upwards of two years. Mr. Asher 
 Bobbins, 1 an alumnus of Yale College, in Connecticut, is now a tutor. 
 
 Sept. 16. As no opportunity presented to forward the above, I beg 
 leave to add that at the anniversary meeting of the corporation of the 1 st 
 instant, the Faculty testified their regard for Mr. Eippon by conferring 
 on him the degree of Master in the Arts. I should have herewith sent the 
 diploma, but could not get it written in time. Hope by the next oppor 
 tunity to have it ready. Last week I attended the Association at Mr. 
 Hunt s place in Middleborough. We had a most harmonious meeting ; 
 and though the addition to our churches is not so great as in. some former 
 
 1 Hon. Asher Bobbins, LL.D. He was born in Connecticut, and was gradua 
 ted at Yale College in the year 1782. Soon after completing his collegiate course, 
 he was elected a tutor under Manning, which office he held for eight years. 
 While thus occupied in quickening the diligence of his pupils, and in imbuing 
 their minds with a genuine relish for the varied forms of classical beauty, he 
 sought every opportunity to cultivate his own taste for the classics, and indeed 
 for every species of elegant learning. After resigning his tutorship, he studied 
 law under the Hon. William Channing, of Newport, at that time the Attorney 
 General of Rhode Island. Here he established himself in the practice of the 
 law, where he resided during the remainder of his life. From 1825 to 1839 he 
 was an honored and useful member of the United States Senate. He seldom 
 engaged in the debates of that body, but on no occasion, says Prof. Godclard, 
 did he address the senate without leaving on the minds of all who heard him a 
 decided impression of his high intellectual powers and accomplishments, of his 
 ability as a statesman, and his acquisitions as a scholar. He died at Newport, in 
 1845, having lived, " by reason of his strength," fourscore years and more. 
 
 Mr. Bobbins was the first librarian of Brown University, as we learn from a 
 letter respecting its early history in which he thus writes : " At the reorganixa- 
 tion of the college, in the autumn of 1782, 1 was appointed to the office of tutor, 
 and took charge of the library as librarian. It was then kept in the east cham 
 ber, on the second floor, of the central building." A good likeness of Mr. Bob 
 bins is among the collection of portraits in Bhode Island Hall. 
 
 28* 
 
330 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 years past, yet there are many promising appearances of a revival in 
 them. There were present some ministering brethren from the eastern 
 part of New Hampshire, and Mr. Case, of whom Mr. Backus makes men 
 tion, as being signally blessed as an instrument in turning many to God 
 in the northeastern parts of Massachusetts. They assured us that God 
 was working wonders through a great extent of that newly-settled coun 
 try, that gospel laborers were much wanted there, and that in the re 
 vivals great numbers embraced the Baptist principles. The most SOITOAV- 
 ful accounts we received were from several places in the Massachusetts 
 and Connecticut States, where Pcdobaptists are again taxing our people, 
 and seizing their persons and property, to compel them to support their 
 worship. Poor men ! They grudge their neighbors that liberty which 
 they themselves enjoy, and for which, by their sides, they have fought and 
 bled. This, however, in the issue may operate favorably. The whole 
 body of Baptists seem determined to maintain their rights, and support 
 those who may be called to suffer. This you will see by a resolution 1 
 entered into at the Association, the minutes of which I should have now 
 sent had they been printed. Probably Mr. Stillman may obtain and en 
 close them before Capt. Scott sails. Last Lord s Day our church received 
 in two persons. I had not been called on to administer baptism before in 
 near two years. Others appear under serious impressions. May the 
 Lord graciously revive his work. I forgot to mention that the Hon. Jo 
 seph Brown, a member of the corporation, a philosophical genius, was at 
 our last meeting chosen Professor of Experimental Philosophy iu this 
 college ; and Dr. Benjamin Waterhouse, M.D., of Leyden, was chosen 
 Professor of Natural History, both of whom engaged to give lectures in 
 
 1 The following is an extract from the minutes of this meeting of the Warren 
 Association, held at Middleborough, Mass., Sept. 7, 8, 1784, of which meeting 
 President Manning was moderator : 
 
 " Accounts were received from various parts of our country, that distress has 
 lately been made upon a number of our brethren and friends for the support of 
 away of worship which we conscientiously dissent from; which is not only a 
 violation of the law of God, but also directly against the fundamental principles 
 of the late revolution in America; therefore this Association are resolved to 
 unite in the most prudent and vigorous measures for putting a stop to these 
 oppressions, and to maintain the just rights of our brethren and friends; and 
 for that end do make choice of the following committee of grievances, to act 
 in this cause according to their best discretion ; and we will recommend it to our 
 several societies to communicate their proportion of the necessary expense hereof. 
 The committee chosen for this purpose are our beloved Elders Stillman, Skill- 
 man, Smith of Haverhill, Backus, and Blood." 
 
1784-1785. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 331 
 
 their respective branches, without any expense to the college while desti 
 tute of an endowment. 
 
 I fear I have wearied your patience, and therefore, with every sentiment 
 of esteem, rest, dear sir, 
 
 Your unworthy brother and fellow-laborer in the gospel, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 P. S. The enclosed packet I beg you to forward to Mr. Evans, free 
 of expense, if you can conveniently, besides a letter to him containing a 
 catalogue of the books in the college library. He has encouraged us to 
 hope for those duplicates which they have by a late donation, and of which 
 we arc destitute. 
 
 President Manning s reply to a letter from the Rev. 
 Thomas Ustick, to which reference is made in the forego 
 ing, gives more in detail the persecutions of the Baptists 
 under the oppressive laws of Massachusetts and Connecti 
 cut : 
 
 TO THE EEV. THOMAS USTICK, PHILADELPHIA. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Sept. 17, 1784. 
 REVEREND SIR : 
 
 Yours of July llth ult. came to hand ; but having no good opportunity 
 of sending an answer, and being much engaged otherwise, I omitted an 
 answer until now. I am glad your long suit has determined in favor of 
 the church. I hope God will dispose you to make a proper improvement 
 of so distinguished a favor, and the people be disposed to employ their 
 property to his glory. I have communicated the contents of your letter, 
 agreeably to your request. Last week I attended the Association at Elder 
 Hinds s, Middleborough. Had an agreeable meeting, but find the Congre- 
 gationalists in Cambridge, Brookfield, Woodstock in Connecticut, with 
 some other places, have made distress on the Baptists this last summer. 
 Some went to jail ; from others they took their stock, land, etc. This 
 does not look much like liberty. The Association recommended the pay 
 ing not the least attention to their ecclesiastical laws, and resolved that 
 they were determined to maintain their claims of equal liberty, etc., and 
 would recommend to the churches to support the sufferers. I am sur 
 prised that they are not ashamed to hold up their heads, in this enlight 
 ened age, in such a shameful cause. But perhaps God means it for good. 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 "We had several ministering brethren from New Hampshire and the 
 northeastern parts of Massachusetts, who refreshed us much with good 
 tidings from that quarter. Many have there been turned to the Lord, and 
 the good work still goes on. The subjects of it generally adopt believ 
 er s baptism. There are great calls for gospel ministers in that quarter. 
 I think the aspect of things is more favorable in our churches, public 
 worship better attended, the ministry better supported, and some appear 
 ance of a revival of God s work. Even poor Providence seems to share 
 a little. I baptized one young man last Lord s Day, and some more are 
 under serious impressions. Mr. Ingalls preaches at Grafton. He told me 
 the other clay the people retained a great affection for you, and recently 
 wished to hear from you. I think the college is in a growing state. I 
 expect our number will exceed thirty at the close of vacation. At the 
 last corporation meeting the Faculty conferred the degree of LL.D. on 
 Governor Hopkins our chancellor, and of A.M. on Mr. John "Rippon, 
 Dr. Gill s successor. Mr. Joseph Brown was chosen Professor of Experi 
 mental Philosophy, and Dr. Benjamin Waterhouse, Professor of Natural 
 History. They have both engaged to lecture without salary from the col 
 lege until there shall be proper endowments for those chairs. Miss Joey, 
 daughter of Nicholas Brown, is in a decline. I believe the rest of your 
 friends are well as usual. With sentiments of esteem and respect to Mrs. 
 
 Ustick and friends, 
 
 I am, etc., 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 The Rev. Elhanan Winchester, to whom reference is 
 made in the preceding correspondence, had been a Bap 
 tist clergyman of great repute in New England. He was 
 born in Brookline, Mass., on the 30th of September, 1751. 
 At the age of nineteen he became pious, and united with 
 the church in his native town. Soon afterwards he com 
 menced the public work of the ministry. Subsequently 
 experiencing a change in some of his views of religion, he 
 visited Canterbury, Ct., where he was baptized by Elder 
 Ebenezer Lyon, and received as a member of the Baptist 
 church. In the spring of 1771 he removed to Rehoboth, 
 Mass., where he remained one year. He afterwards 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 333 
 
 preached in various parts of New England and South Car 
 olina. His extraordinary memory, his eloquence, and ap 
 parent zeal, excited great interest, and multitudes flocked 
 to hear him. Unusual success attended his ministry, and 
 his name became celebrated in all the churches. In the 
 year 1781 he removed to Philadelphia, where he advocated 
 the doctrine of universal restoration, and was excluded 
 in consequence from the fellowship of the Baptist denom 
 ination. 1 He preached for several years to his adherents 
 
 1 An account of this affair may be found in a little pamphlet entitled " An Ad 
 dress from the Baptist Church in Philadelphia, to their Sister Churches of the 
 same Denomination, throughout the Confederate States of North America. 
 Drawn up by a Committee of the Church appointed for said purpose." 18mo. 
 Philadelphia: Printed by Robert Aitken, 1781. pp. 16. A few extracts from this 
 rare pamphlet may fitly appear in this connection. 
 
 u In the beginning of October, 1780, Mr. Elhanan Winchester, a native of Mas 
 sachusetts Bay, New England, came as a messenger from the Warren Association 
 to ours, which was then nigh at hand. Many of the members having, previous 
 to this, repeatedly heard him preach, not the least suspicion existed but that he 
 continued an advocate for that faith which we look upon as the faith once de 
 livered to the saints. Accordingly, at a meeting for business the 9th of said 
 month, it was agreed to use our best endeavors to prevail on him to stay, and 
 preach for us a limited time. In two or three days after this, the Eev. Oliver 
 Hart arrived in town from South Carolina; we were, therefore, from many 
 considerations, prevented doing anything decisive, until the 23d, when, at an 
 assembly both of the church and congregation, it was, by the majority then pres 
 ent, deemed most consistent with the resolution of the 9th (a deviation therefrom 
 carrying with it an appearance of injustice) to give Mr. Winchester an invitation 
 to tarry with us during the space of one year. Being waited upon, and made 
 acquainted with the circumstances attending the choice, he answered, That he 
 was sorry we were not entirely unanimous therein ; but, nevertheless, consented 
 to supply our pulpit for six months, at least, and longer if everything should 
 prove agreeable. 
 
 " Popular applause, the idol which too many worship, was soon discovered to 
 be an object zealously sought for and courted by Mr. Winchester. To accom 
 plish this, persons w r ere every week hastily admitted to baptism, upon the slight 
 est examination ; though we really believe that among the number are several 
 sincere Christians, who, during this season of trial, have not been ashamed 
 openly to discountenance his errors. Various innovations, contrary to our es 
 tablished discipline, were introduced through his means. The church undertook 
 
334 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 in Philadelphia, among whom his biographer includes the 
 celebrated Dr. Benjamin Rush, and Dr. John Redman, 
 first President of the College of Physicians in Philadel 
 phia. In 1787 he removed to London. He published many 
 religious and controversial works, the most important of 
 which are, Dialogues on Universal Restoration ; Lectures 
 on the Prophecies, 2 vols. 8vo. ; Letters on the Divinity 
 of Christ ; Defence of Revelation ; Oration on the Discov- 
 
 a reform. In some respects success attended us; in others, an obstinate adher 
 ence marked his character. 
 
 " The principal foundation of the greatest uneasiness we shall now proceed to 
 consider. Early in the winter it was whispered to a few, that Mr. Winchester, 
 notwithstanding his artful endeavors to conceal the same in his public discours 
 es, held the doctrine of a linal restoration of bad men and angels from hell ; that 
 the whole of Adam s progeny, yea, the devils themselves, at certain different pe 
 riods, would be delivered from their torment, and made completely happy ; in 
 other words, that he peremptorily denied the endless duration or perpetuity of 
 future punishment. The method taken by him, at first, to propagate this wicked 
 tenet, was by creeping into houses, and leading captive persons of weak capac 
 ities, wherein he met with too much encouragement. Alarmed at this authen 
 ticated report, he was at different times privately conversed with on the subject 
 by several of the members. He did not presume to contradict it fully, and yet 
 his confession was by no means satisfactory. Upon these occasions he would 
 frequently intimate his intention of going away, provided the smallest division 
 took place on his account; while at the same juncture, as opportunity served, he 
 failed not to use arguments in order to gain proselytes." 
 
 The result of all this, the Address goes on to add, was the introduction of the 
 whole matter at a church meeting held on the 5th of March, 1781. Much debat 
 ing ensued; the members became divided into two distinct parties, and finally 
 a protest against the doctrine of universal restoration, as a dangerous heresy, 
 was signed by sixty-seven of the most substantial and influential members of the 
 church. This number was afterwards increased to eighty-six. Upon a motion 
 made to wait on Mr. Winchester, and inform him that he could not, with pro 
 priety, be allowed to preach for them any longer, the protestors found them 
 selves in a small minority, Mr. Winchester s adherents, including many of the 
 " sisters" and younger members of the church, " being rather the most numer 
 ous." The church at this time numbered about one hundred and seventy. The 
 protestors, however, conscious of having truth and justice on their side, viewed 
 themselves as fully authorized to act independently of the new party. They ac 
 cordingly appointed a committee of two to wait on Mr. Winchester at his lodg 
 ings. This committee, failing to find him at Lome, addressed him a letter, which 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 335 
 
 ery of America, with an Appendix ; Eeigning Abomina 
 tions ; various sermons, etc. Mr. Winchester died on the 
 18th of April, 1797, aged forty-six years. He appears to have 
 been a man of sincere piety, notwithstanding the change 
 in his theological opinions. His biography, by the Rev. 
 Edwin M. Stone, of Providence, was published by Brewster 
 of Boston, in 1836. The book, which contains an excellent 
 portrait of Winchester, is now extremely rare. 
 
 From the following letter it appears that the college at 
 this time, notwithstanding the financial embarrassments of 
 the people in consequence of the war, promised better than 
 at any former period of its existence : 
 
 TO THE REV. DR. SMITH. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, July 3, 1784. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 By some means I mislaid your last to me in which you mention some 
 buddings of a spiritual nature amongst you. I rejoice to hear it. Hope 
 
 he returned at once, unopened. Ou Thursday evening, March the 8th, his friends 
 broke into the meeting-house, and took forcible possession thereof, Mr. Winches 
 ter preaching notwithstanding the confusion. On the ensuing Sabbath he ad 
 ministered the Lord s Supper. A council of ministers was now called, and com 
 mittees representing the two parties were appointed to meet them, with a view 
 to an amicable adjustment of the difficulties. Failing in this, the members of the 
 New Party, so called, were, by advice of the council, formally excluded from the 
 church. Subsequently Mr. Winchester was, by the action of the Philadelphia 
 and Warren Associations, formally excluded from the fellowship of the Baptist 
 denomination. 
 
 The Address, of which we have given the substance, was dated May 14, 1781, 
 and signed by Samuel Miles, William Rogers, Thomas Shields, and John M Kirn. 
 The suit for the possession of the house and property was, as we have already 
 seen, finally decided in favor of the Protestors, as they were then called. We 
 have devoted more space than could be well spared to this matter, because of 
 its importance, and also because it is frequently alluded to in Manning s corres 
 pondence. Indeed, Manning was himself prominent in the affair. Mr. Ustick, 
 Winchester s immediate successor, was received by the church on his recom 
 mendation; and he was a member of a committee appointed by the Philadelphia 
 Association, in 1781, to investigate and report to said body the proceedings of 
 the church in reference to Winchester and his doctrines. 
 
336 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 it may gloriously increase. I returned the 27th ult. Mrs. Manning 
 sailed that day sennight to enjoy the last interview with her dear 
 mamma, just about to leave us by a consumption, and very desirous 
 of seeing her. She arrived at New York last Tuesday. Your friends, as 
 far as I could hear, are in usual health. The Plains are destitute of a 
 minister. They intend to try for Sammy Jones. Mr. Eunyon is settled 
 at Piscataway, where are some appearances of a revival. The general 
 meeting was crowded, ten or eleven, ministers present, and amongst them 
 Mr. Hart, who, I think, will settle at Hopcwell. Cranberry is visited with 
 a revival, as are some other places in some small degree, especially under 
 the ministry of Mr. Wilson, of Bordcntown. Mr. Gano s meeting-house 
 is completely repaired and his congregation very full. Things look 
 rather promising in New York, though the people are poor after their exile. 
 I never enjoyed more freedom in preaching in any journey in my life, 
 nor was I ever more attended to. The college consists of twenty- three stu 
 dents, nine being added since the vacation. More than a dozen arc ex 
 pected to enter in the fall. We have a number of promising youth, and 
 amongst them is my nephew Jimmy, son of Jeremiah. Mr. Wilkinson 1 
 
 i William Wilkinson, who was graduated in 1783. He immediately took 
 charge of the college Latin school, which charge he retained until 1792. He was 
 eminently successful as a teacher, and fitted for college many of its distinguished 
 alumni. In 1785 he was appointed, librarian of the college. As the history of 
 the Latin school forms a part of our college history, we may be pardoned for in 
 troducing here an advertisement from the Providence Gazette, by which it ap 
 pears that the connection which had existed between the school and the college 
 was for a time dissolved : 
 
 " William Wilkinson informs the public, that, by the advice of the school 
 committee, he proposes removing his school from the college edifice, on Monday 
 next, to the brick schoolhouse; and, sensible of the many advantages resulting 
 from a proper method of instruction in the English language, he has, by the 
 committee s approbation, associated with him Mr. Asa Learned, as an English 
 instructor. Those gentlemen and ladies who may wish to employ them in the 
 several branches of the Greek, Latin, and English languages taught grammati 
 cally, arithmetic, and writing, may depend on the utmost attention being paid 
 to their children. Greek and Latin at twenty-four shillings per quarter; Eng 
 lish at sixteen shillings. 
 
 WILKINSON AND LEARNED. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Oct. 20, 1786." 
 
 In tracing further the history of this Latin or grammar school, we find in the 
 records of the corporation, under date of Sept. 4, 1794, the following: " Voted, 
 That the President use his influence and endeavor to establish a grammar school 
 iu this town, as an appendage to this college, to be under the immediate visita- 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 337 
 
 is a good master. The school is nearly up to twenty. All the rooms in 
 the two lower stories are now full, and Ave must go directly to finishing 
 the two upper ones, at least the third, if we can possibly devise ways and 
 means ; which I expect will be very difficult. I think the advice you gave 
 Mr. "Wood was right, and he will doubtless fare, as well on the subject 
 of advancement with us as at Jersey College. The institution promises 
 better now than at any period of its existence. Had we about one or two 
 thousand pounds more to provide for a suitable tuition, I should rejoice. 
 Secure of your interest in sending us scholars, I shall say nothing on that 
 head, but as the bearer, Capt. Thivell, is waiting, must conclude with 
 best wishes to you, lady, and all friends. 
 
 Yours, as ever, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 P. S. Miss Joey Brown, daughter of Nicholas, is fast declining. Her 
 disorder is thought to be the consumption. 
 
 President Manning now begins a correspondence with 
 the Kev. Dr. Caleb Evans, President of the Baptist acad 
 emy in Bristol. His father was the Rev. Hugh Evans, one 
 of the most distinguished Baptist ministers of his day. 
 Dr. Evans proved to be a warm friend of the college, and 
 was the means of securing valuable books for the library. 
 He died on the 9th of August, 1791, in the fifty-fourth 
 year of his age. He published a collection of hymns, and 
 numerous sermons and addresses, the greater part of which 
 are to be found in the library. " Our Baptist college in 
 America," says Dr. Rippon, " was proud to confer on him 
 her highest honors, in which she was followed by the prin 
 cipal and professors of the King s College, Aberdeen, in 
 the year 1789." 
 
 tion of the President, and the general inspection of the town s school committee, 
 and that the President also procure a suitable master for such school." This 
 resolution was doubtless carried into effect. Fifteen years afterwards, as we 
 have already stated in a previous chapter (see page 198), the corporation erected 
 a brick building for the accommodation of the school, at an expense of fifteen 
 hundred dollars. This building, which has since been enlarged, is the one now 
 occupied as the " University Grammar School." 
 29 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Sept. 13, 1784. 
 REVEREND SIR : 
 
 I have long wished for a favorable opportunity of introducing myself 
 to you, and am happy that one has at length offered, by answering your 
 request in a late letter to my friend and brother Rev. Samuel Stillman, 
 of Boston. Enclosed is the catalogue of all the books now belonging to 
 the college. Nearly one half of them have their bindings much broken, 
 as they were old when presented. Besides the enclosed we have ordered 
 out from London this fall about fourteen hundred volumes, a catalogue 
 of which we sent to Dr. Stennett, requesting his advice to the merchants, 
 Messrs. Champion and Dickinson, in the purchase of them, hoping that 
 he may point out whore they can be had second-hand, etc. Of this you 
 may obtain a sight by applying to the Doctor. Together with that we 
 sent a catalogue of books which we are not able to purchase, but which 
 we should be glad to receive by way of donation, should any of our 
 friends be so disposed. "Were I not oppressed with cares, and at present 
 destitute of assistance, I would send them to you also. If, however, I 
 can make out a copy of these catalogues before the ship sails, they shall 
 accompany this. The above-mentioned fourteen hundred volumes are a 
 donation from our treasurer, John Brown, Esq., of Providence. The 
 amount of two hundred pounds sterling was also ordered to be expended 
 in the purchase of a necessary philosophical apparatus, in addition to 
 what we already have, consisting chiefly of a telescope, an air-pump and 
 its apparatus, globes, and a thermometer. The money for this order 
 was subscribed by other members of the corporation last fall. A list of 
 these articles was also forwarded to Dr. Stennett. 
 
 Your kind attention to the interests of the college, and the proffer of 
 your services, were sensibly felt by the corporation at their annual meeting 
 this present month ; and it is in obedience to their commands, imposed 
 by the following vote, that I now write : " Voted, That the Rev. Messrs. 
 President Manning and Samuel Stillman be a committee to write to the 
 Rev. Hugh Evans of Bristol, and other gentlemen in England, and en 
 close the catalogue of books belonging to the college, and endeavor to 
 procure such donations in books, apparatus, and money as maybe obtained 
 from thence ; and also consult Dr. Stennett on the expediency of sending 
 a person to England to solicit donations for the college." 
 
 At the commencement of the war the college was in a growing state. 
 The number of students was about forty, and there was a good Latin 
 school in the edifice. In 1776 it was delivered up, or rather taken pos- 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 339 
 
 session of by the troops as a barrack and hospital, and continued to be 
 occupied by the militia, Continental and French troops, and seamen, 
 until June, 1782. During this period the house sustained great damages, 
 for which we have received no compensation yet, nor have we much 
 prospect of it in future. This has thrown a heavy burden on the corpo 
 ration, and greatly embarrassed them in making the necessary repairs, 
 especially as our fund is small. This we have made many efforts to 
 augment by collections, etc., in this country, but to so little purpose that 
 our whole fund produces but about sixty pounds sterling per annum. 
 The distressed and exhausted state of the country by war, leaves us little 
 room soon to hope for much from this quarter, especially as money is 
 become so scarce that our people in the country, although possessed of 
 property, cannot command sufficient to pay their taxes. We are unwil 
 ling however to relinquish our design, as it is evident that the institution 
 has already greatly contributed to the perpetuity of our denomination, 
 and begins again to attract the public attention. The number of students 
 already in college, and of those we expect in the course of the fall, is up 
 wards of thirty. In teaching I have the assistance of one tutor. A small 
 Latin school is kept up in the college. Any services you can render in 
 endowing it will be most acceptable to the corporation. 
 
 Last week I attended our Association at Middleborough, and though 
 several of the remote churches did not send messengers, a great number 
 of Christian friends met and enjoyed a harmonious and agreeable inter 
 view. Were the minutes printed I would enclose them. In several places 
 there is a happy revival of religion, especially in the eastern parts of 
 Massachusetts, and I am not without encouragement under my poor min 
 istry. The doctrine of religious, as well as civil liberty, is in general 
 better understood in New England than before the Revolution notwith 
 standing in places the persons and property of several of our friends have 
 been seized on for ministerial rates. I think it not improbable that the 
 rapid increase of our society will provoke some of our neighbors to give 
 us much trouble ; but it affords encouragement that the whole body are 
 determined to maintain their rights and support the burden which may 
 first fall upon individuals. Possibly the knowledge of this resolution en 
 tered into at our last annual meeting may deter our oppressors. If not, 
 may the great Head of the ckurch furnish us with grace to suffer like 
 Christians. 
 
 I have often heard of your Education Society, and of its great utility 
 in training up young men for the ministry. My highly respected friend 
 
340 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 and your brother-in-law, Thomas Mullet, Esq., gave me the best account 
 of it which I have yet received ; still, if it be not too troublesome I 
 should be glad to receive further information respecting it, and I will 
 engage to repay it in any information you wish for in my power to give. 
 
 In a letter to Dr. Stennett, last fall, I gave a pretty full account of the 
 state of religion and some other matters in this new world ; it was in an- 
 swer to his request in a letter by Mr. Mullett. If this letter reached him, 
 it is not improbable that you have seen it, as I requested him to commu 
 nicate the contents to those of our friends who might wish to hear from 
 us. On the opening again of the communication between both countries, 
 it was pleasing to find our brethren in England, at least a great number 
 df them, so much interested in our welfare. How strong a proof this of 
 the reality of that Christian love and unity in the spirit which is the gen 
 uine fruit of a gracious principle ! The same temper is manifested here 
 towards our brethren in England. There is the same joy expressed on 
 hearing that Christ s kingdom is advancing witli you which appeared be 
 fore the war. And why should it not be so, since his kingdom is but one 1 
 Dependence or independence therefore should make no difference amongst 
 his subjects, who consist of the elect out of different people, nations, and 
 languages. The privilege of a correspondence with Mr. Evans I shall 
 highly prize, if not too troublesome to him ; and he may depend on 
 punctuality on the part of his unworthy friend and brother, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 To this letter Dr. Evans replies : 
 
 BRISTOL, ENGLAND, Jan. 26, 1785. 
 DEAR SIR: 
 
 As the extensive connections in which my brother is engaged on your 
 wide-extended continent render it advisable for him once more to traverse 
 the mighty waters, and to pay a visit to his American friends, in which 
 number you hold a distinguished place, I gladly embrace the opportunity 
 of accepting your correspondence, and replying to your favor of the 13th 
 of September last, which I received in due course in November. I shall 
 be truly happy to do anything in my power to promote the prosperity of 
 the infant college over which you so worthily preside, and shall omit no 
 opportunity that offers of testifying my regards to it. Charity, you know, 
 the old proverb says, should begin at home, but I think it should not end 
 there, but flow on without control to the utmost limits of possibility. I 
 
1784-1785. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 341 
 
 had so little time with Dr. Stennett when I was in London that we had 
 no opportunity of entering upon the affairs of your college as I wished to 
 have done, nor could I have a sight of the catalogue of the books lately 
 purchased. I shall nevertheless pursue the design of obtaining for you 
 such of our duplicates as may be worthy your acceptance, without strictly 
 adhering to what you already have, because you may easily exchange, as 
 you observe, such as may prove superfluous. But this cannot be accom 
 plished till August next, as our Society will have no meeting till that 
 time. As to a person s coming over here to solicit benefactions, I rather 
 fear it would not at present be advisable ; but should Dr. Stennett think 
 otherwise, and a proper person should come, especially if it were either 
 yourself or Dr. Stillman, I would readily use my utmost efforts to pro 
 mote his success. Our friends in general are well enough affected to 
 America, but many of them have very little idea of the utility of academi 
 cal institutions, though it is evident the prejudices arc wearing away. I 
 am sorry to see, as well by the account Mr. Mullctt gives me as by your 
 letter, that religion is at so low an ebb amongst you, though I doubt not 
 the time will come when it will again run and be glorified. There have 
 been on your continent, in years past, many enemies against revivals, and 
 your set time to favor Zion will, I doubt not, yet come again. Your 
 church is, however, I hear, flourishing, as also Mr. Stillman s and some 
 others. Blessed be God, we have cause; for thankfulness here. One of our 
 churches in this city lately baptized twenty, and probably before this letter 
 leaves this place I shall have the pleasure of receiving something more 
 than an equal number to the solemn rite. And yet still \vc have much 
 cause to complain of lukewarmness and formality. Dr. Stennett s Dis 
 courses on Domestic Duties you have probably seen, and probably Mr. 
 Booth s treatise on Baptism, the most elaborate and decisive perform 
 ance upon that subject that has ever yet been published, or probably ever 
 will be. I enclose you one of our last associational letters, and a sermon 
 lately published by one of our ministers on Walking by Eaith, which I 
 beg your acceptance of, as also a fifth volume of Saurin to complete the 
 set which Mr. Mullett tells me he presented to your college, and which he 
 had of me for his own use on the voyage. Amongst the books you may 
 expect in the fall are the Polyglott General Dictionary, 10 vols., including 
 Bayle, Biographical Dictionary, and many others equally valuable. I 
 shall wish your direction how to send them. I will, my dear sir, detain 
 you no longer than to express my warmest wishes for the increasing pros 
 perity of the church and college over which you preside, the revival of the 
 29* 
 
342 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 interests of literature and true religion through the American continent 
 and the whole world, and recommend my brother to your continued 
 friendship. I remain, 
 
 Yours, affectionately, in the endearing bonds of gospel love, 
 
 CALEB EVANS. 
 
 In his correspondence with Evans, Dr. Manning, it will 
 be observed, speaks of being " oppressed with cares." The 
 number and variety of his cares may be inferred from the 
 following amusing extract from a letter written by Dr. 
 Waterhouse, which we find quoted in the memoir by Prof. 
 Goddard : " I never shall forget what Dr. Manning, in 
 great good humor, told me were among his * trying experi 
 ences. He told me that his salary was only eighty pounds 
 per annum, and that for this pittance he performed all the 
 duties of President of the college ; heard two classes re 
 cite every day ; listened to complaints, foreign and domes 
 tic, from undergraduates and their parents, of both sexes, 
 and answered them, now antl then by letter ; waited gener 
 ally on all transient visitors into college, etc. Nor was 
 this all. I made, said Dr. Manning, ray own garden, 
 and took care of it; repaired my dilapidated walls; went 
 nearly every day to market ; preached twice a week, and 
 sometimes oftener ; attended, by solicitation, the funeral 
 of every baby that died in Providence ; visited the sick 
 of my own society, and not unfrequently the sick of other 
 societies ; made numerous parochial visits, the poorest 
 people exacting the longest, and, in case of any seeming 
 neglect, finding fault the most. " Amid all these perplex 
 ing cares, which allowed him but scanty time for premed 
 itating his sermons, we have the testimony of Dr. Water- 
 house for adding that "the honorable and worthy man 
 never complained." 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 343 
 
 REV. ABRAHAM BOOTH TO MANNING. 
 
 LONDON, June 30, 1784. 
 DEAK SIR : 
 
 It is with pleasure that I reflect on a restoration of intercourse between 
 Great Britain and America, after so long an interruption by so destructive 
 a war. May a kind Providence yet render the two countries mutually 
 useful to each other. Having a favorable opportunity, I here present you 
 with a publication or two. Shall be glad to hear of their obtaining your 
 approbation. 
 
 You will much oblige me by transmitting the enclosed parcel to Mr. 
 Stillman ; and you will increase the obligation by favoring me with a few 
 lines your first opportunity. 
 
 Taking it for granted that Dr. Stennett will give you some account of 
 the state of religion amongst us in the country, I have nothing to add 
 but my ardent prayers that a kind Providence may bless your confeder 
 ated provinces with peace and prosperity, and that the great Head of 
 the church may cause pure and undented religion to flourish in all your 
 academies, your churches, and through all your extensive country. I 
 conclude, and remain, 
 
 Your cordial friend and unworthy brother, 
 
 A. BOOTH. 
 
 p. g. Mr. Benjamin Wallin died upwards of two years ago. 
 
 To the above Manning replies : 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Oct. 3, 1784. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 On my return from New York, four days ago, I was so happy as to 
 find a line from Mr. A. Booth, accompanied with the publications men 
 tioned. My present hurry has permitted me to examine but little more 
 than the titlepages, but from my predilection for the author of the Reign 
 of Grace, I am persuaded any publication of his will be highly accepta 
 ble. My next shall inform you of my opinion of the publications on 
 perusal. In the mean time I beg you to accept my hearty thanks for the 
 donation. By the ship Hope, belonging to this town, and by the bearer, 
 Dr. Solomon Drowne, who goes as a passenger in her, I embrace the 
 opportunity of acknowledging the receipt of yours. Mr. Drowne is a son 
 of the college, a gentleman of remarkable modesty, who, having passed 
 through the best medical schools in this country, now visits Europe with 
 
344 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 views of further improvement in the lino of his profession. He is a 
 member of the corporation, and of unblemished character, on whose 
 information you may safely rely respecting the college, or any other mat 
 ters. As such I beg leave to introduce him to your notice, and refer you 
 to him for particulars. 
 
 The restoration of public tranquillity and a free intercourse between 
 the two countries, after so long an interruption, is matter of thanksgiving 
 to God. Few, perhaps, in either country, more sincerely regretted this 
 interruption than your unworthy friend ; to which no consideration could 
 ever reconcile him except that of making a part of the plan of His ad 
 ministration who is infinite in wisdom. Conciliatory measures, I doubt 
 not, will render both countries reciprocally useful. 
 
 I have transmitted the letter and parcel to Mr. Stillman by a safe hand. 
 I have not yet been so happy as to receive a line from Dr. Stennett, 
 which I am daily expecting, with the wished-for information. Enclosed 
 I send you a copy of our last Association minutes. This will give you a 
 general view of the state of a number of our churches. Since that time 
 I have received authentic accounts of a most glorious work of God, in 
 what is called the State of Vermont, formerly the Hampshire grants, on 
 the west side of Connecticut river. It extends over well-neigh half the 
 peopled part of that territory, and appears increasing. The eastern part 
 of Massachusetts continues still to be remarkably visited in the same way, 
 and the prospect brightens at New York and in many parts of the Western 
 Suites. Some drops have also fallen on Providence, Newport, and 
 Swanzey, with several other places. My attention, however, is so much 
 called for at the college, that I cannot visit, as I wish to do, and rejoice 
 together with them. A long letter to Dr. Stennett, last fall, which you 
 have probably seen, gave some general accounts of the state of religion 
 amongst us since the commencement of the war. I shall not therefore 
 repeat what I then wrote, only observe that two of the leaders in what 
 they called the New Dispensation, but others the Shaking Quakers, have, 
 notwithstanding their boasted immortality, lately died ; one of whom 
 was, as they termed her, the elect lady. The adherents, I am told, to 
 that fanatical system, are falling off and renouncing it. Their folly in 
 deed has been made abundantly manifest. It is the general opinion of. 
 serious people that these shakings presage something glorious to the 
 church of God. May the Lord grant an accomplishment of their wishes. 
 
 The mournful news of Mr. Wallin s death reached us more than a 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 345 
 
 year ago. When he died a truly great man in our Israel tell ; but I 
 doubt not it was his gain. 
 
 Your ardent wishes for our national prosperity, but more especially for 
 that of the churches of Christ in this new world, are peculiarly acceptable. 
 Permit me to repay them by wishes as ardent for Great Britain and Ire 
 land, those lands of our forefathers nativity, and for the advancement of 
 the glorious kingdom of our common Lord throughout the same, and 
 indeed throughout the whole world. 
 
 A line from Mr. Booth will always be very acceptable to his sincere 
 friend and unworthy brother, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 TO THE REV. JOHN RYLAND, JE. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Nov. 12, 1784. 
 EEVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 I beg leave to embrace this opportunity to confess my fault in not for 
 warding your diploma before now. By some unaccountable neglect it 
 was mislaid till a few days since. 
 
 You will forgive the execution, as the writing is but indifferent, nor 
 could we at that time procure it done otherwise. It is, however, a small 
 testimony of our regard for the merit of Mr. Ryland, and as such we beg 
 you to accept it. 
 
 The long and agreeable correspondence I was honored with by your 
 father (to whom I have written since the war) leads me to wish for the 
 continuance of it. But if his advanced age or engagements forbid it, I 
 wish for it from his son, and, as I am told, successor in the school at 
 Northampton. I heartily wish you success in the important employment 
 of educating youth, and in preaching the gospel of our glorious Saviour. 
 
 We have seen days of sorrow during the late calamitous war, but 
 blessed be God that I have lived to see a period to it, and a free inter 
 course again opened between us and Great Britain. Some agreeable 
 letters have already reached me from several friends in England, more of 
 which I hope for soon ; also more particular accounts of the state of re 
 ligion in general and your society in particular. I long to read some 
 of those old-fashioned letters from Rev. John Ryland in this way. They 
 will however be very acceptable from his son. 
 
 The college is reviving. Thirty students have already entered, and 
 more are expected. We have in part repaired the damages of the house, 
 
346 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 which were very great, by the wanton waste of the soldiery. I have the 
 assistance of one tutor. We need more help, but the low state of our 
 funds will not support another, and the scarcity of cash at present in 
 this country forbids our hopes of augmenting our little stock. We were 
 so fortunate, in the wreck of public credit during the war, as to preserve 
 our little fund undiminished. In the eastern part of Massachusetts and 
 in the State of Vermont there is a most glorious work of God, which 
 has continued for some time and still increases. Please to present my 
 best regards to your honored father, and believe me, with every sentiment 
 of esteem, dear sir, 
 
 Your unworthy brother, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 TO THE KEY. DE. EIPPON. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Nov. 12, 1784. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 This will be handed you by my friend, Dr. Solomon Drowne, of Provi 
 dence, a son of the college, a gentleman of great modesty, who visits your 
 city with views of further medical improvement. I beg leave to recom 
 mend him to you as a man of good character, and a Fellow of the college. 
 Through him you may receive what information you wish respecting the 
 college, etc. Together with this you will receive the diploma I men 
 tioned in my last. We beg you to accept it as a testimony of our respect 
 for the character and merit of Mr. Rippon. I must apologize for the 
 writing. It was done in a hurry, and by a young hand. 
 
 The Lord s work still goes on gloriously in the eastern parts of Massa 
 chusetts and Vermont. By recent advice from these parts we are assured 
 that whole congregations, almost, of Congregationalists, embrace the Bap 
 tist principles ; and in one instance their minister was baptized with his 
 people. Several useful ministers are raised up amongst them lately in 
 that wilderness. This looks somewhat like the coming of our Redeemer s 
 kingdom. With me you say amen ! Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly. 
 In great haste, I am, dear sir, 
 
 Your unworthy brother and fellow-believer in Jesus, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 Mr. Drowne, whom Manning here introduces to Dr. Rip 
 pon, graduated from the college in the year 1773. Upon his 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 347 
 
 return from Europe, he practised medicine in Providence for 
 a while, then removed to Ohio, thence to Pennsylvania, and 
 finally settled in the town of Foster, R. I., where he passed 
 the remainder of his days in professional and agricultural 
 pursuits, and in the cultivation of his taste for botany and 
 for elegant letters. In 1811 he was appointed Professor 
 of Materia Medica and Botany in Brown University, and 
 for two or three seasons he delivered lectures to a class of 
 medical students. He also lectured on botany to the un 
 dergraduates of the University, and to a private class of 
 citizens. He died in 1834, at the advanced age of eighty- 
 one years. A fine portrait of him is among the collection 
 of portraits in Rhode Island Hall. Mr. Drowne was a Fel 
 low of the University from 1783 until his death, a period 
 of more than fifty-one years. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Dec. 23, 1784. 
 To THE HONORABLE DAVID HOWELL, 
 
 MEMBER or CONGRESS IN PHILADELPHIA : 
 
 SIR : Before you receive this, you will doubtless be advised of the 
 melancholy situation of our common friend, Mr. Joseph Brown, who, 
 upwards of four weeks since, received a violent shock of an apoplexy and 
 numb palsy combined, which for some time caused his physicians and 
 friends to despair of his life. But though he is much recovered, as to the 
 use of his limbs and his speech, it forbids, in a great measure, our indulg 
 ing a hope of his restoration to former usefulness. Joey, daughter of 
 Nicholas Brown, still survives, but is in the last stage of her disorder. 
 Mrs. Thurston, wife of the elder, died of the small pox last Friday. He 
 and his family have it by inoculation, and are in a hopeful way to recover. 
 I left Newport last Monday morning. Your family are in usual health, 
 for aught I have heard to the contrary since my return. Mr. Wilkinson 
 speaks favorably of Jeremiah s proficiency in and attention to Greek. 
 
 I have nothing new to advise you respecting the college. Our number 
 is above thirty. We have heard that you very soon adjourned to Phila 
 delphia, after your meeting at Trenton. I suppose you find better living 
 
348 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 and more diversion in the city ; to which, if members of Congress are 
 not entitled, I beg leave to know who are ? I hope you will be good na- 
 tured, unanimous, and attentive to the public business, conducting it to 
 the great honor and advantage of the United States. 
 
 What think you of an application to Congress for the rents and dam 
 ages of the college 1 Will it do this session or not ? I fear it will become 
 an old story, and that we, in the issue, shall lose the whole, if we defer 
 it longer. What we ask is not only just, but greatly wanted at present. I 
 beg you to feel round amongst the members, and form a judgment of the 
 probability of success in case of an application. Should things appear 
 promising, I will forward the papers, and indeed will come myself, Deo 
 vo/ente, in the spring, if you think it can be of any use. 
 
 You remember I mentioned to you the case of our farm in the Jerseys, 
 and our thoughts of selling it for public securities. What is your opinion ? 
 Will Congress, this session, provide for paying the interest on final-settle 
 ment notes equally with that of loan-office certificates, or not ? From the 
 face of things at present with you, is it your opinion that public securities 
 will appreciate soon ? If so, which species of them are the most likely to 
 do so ? If Congress takes up this subject, how long do you expect it will 
 be first ? I wish a resolution of these queries when your leisure will per 
 mit. Are you likely to open a land-office soon, to dispose of any of the 
 Western territory ? What concessions have the Indians made to the 
 commissioners sent out to treat witli them ? Will they sell any part of 
 their lands to the States ? or do they oppose our extending our settle 
 ments ? What will be the terms, if Congress opens an office, on which 
 they will dispose of their lands 1 It is the ardent wish here that some 
 thing may speedily be done with our new acquisitions towards raising 
 our public credit, and alleviating the burdens of taxation, under which 
 the people at present groan. And if the way is paved by the commission 
 ers, I see no reason for losing time, as money daily grows scarcer. This 
 must affect the price of them greatly, at a future distant period, unless 
 some expedient can be hit on to replenish the States with that useful arti 
 cle. Will not Congress establish a mint for the Union? I think this 
 measure would be attended Avith advantage. While we neglect it, do we 
 not, apparently, betray a diffidence or distrust of the continuance of our in 
 dependence 1 A national coin would serve to strengthen the sinews of gov 
 ernment, in my opinion, and might be managed so as to secure a medium 
 in the country, I should think, which is certainly a great national object. 
 But I shall begin to smile at my scribbling politics, and I shall provoke 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 319 
 
 your risibilities no further ; concluding by inquiring how you found friends 
 in the Jerseys, requesting a line from you at your first leisure, and, joined 
 with Mrs. Manning, presenting my best compliments. With sentiments 
 of esteem, I am, respectfully, 
 
 Yours, etc., 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 TO THE REV. THOMAS USTICK, PHILADELPHIA. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, March 4, 1785. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 Unwilling to saddle you with postage to the amount of three or four 
 shillings, as I had no other medium of conveyance, I have now before 
 me yours of Dec. 24, and January, to which I have given you no an 
 swer. I presume, from not mentioning in your last the indisposition of 
 your family, that your children are recovered. This, at least, I hope is 
 the case. In addition to the procedure of the Pedobaptists, mentioned in 
 my last, I now have to inform you that some time in this winter they took 
 three of Mr. Thomas Green s people for minister s rates, and put them 
 into Cambridge jail. You recollect that he lives in that town. Our 
 friends have prosecuted them, and the trial comes on there the 9th inst. 
 Perhaps a degree of this opposition to the truth of the gospel is necessary to 
 engage a suitable attention to its importance. It is no argument in favor 
 of the disposition of those who make it, but it may be a means of great 
 good to those against whom it is made. 
 
 Some revivals in various parts of New England are encouraging amidst 
 these trials. Providence in a small degree is blessed with some quicken- 
 ings amongst Christians, and a few instances of late awakenings. I hope 
 you may yet rejoice on this account in Pennsylvania. 
 
 The state of the college is as promising as we could reasonably expect. 
 Our number is thirty-one, and more are expected to enter this spring. Mr. 
 John Brown is about finishing the third story, which we expect to want 
 in the course of this year, if tho^se whom we expect should come. I be 
 lieve our students are as orderly, industrious, and as good scholars as at 
 any one period of the institution. One tutor is all the assistance which I 
 have at present, Mr. Bobbins, from Connecticut, who gives good satisfac 
 tion. Probably I shall be able to answer your request relative to Mr. 
 Brown this spring before I visit the Jerseys, which I expect to do in May, 
 without some unforeseen cause should prevent it. The corporation at that 
 30 
 
350 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 time had resolved on an application to Congress for reparation of the 
 damage done the college during its appropriation to public uses through 
 the war, and have resolved to send me on that errand. In this I shall 
 want every assistance from the friends of the institution, by letters to the 
 members, etc. If your acquaintance with any of them will enable you to 
 aid me, I know I am sure of that aid. 
 
 Mr. Joseph Brown s indisposition is indeed a very heavy stroke to us. 
 The college and the church particularly feel it. There is little probabil 
 ity of his ever being restored to his former usefulness, though he again 
 goes a little abroad. I have attended to your request in respect to the 
 minutes you enclosed. I am sorry to hear of the acrimony among you 
 respecting the officers of government. I think it very imprudent in the 
 Presbyterians, as well as injurious, to wish to engross these to themselves. 
 But that profession has been of old impeached of a propensity this way, 
 and, as St. Paul somewhere says, I partly believe it. 
 
 As I am thoroughly conscious of my want of qualifications for the 
 grade you mention, so I do not wish it. It is perhaps, at best, but an 
 empty sound, and rendered, in too many instances, still more so by the char 
 acters of those on whom it has been bestowed, for a place in whose cata 
 logue I have no ambition. 1 I thank you, however, for your kind atten 
 tion. You have my hearty thanks for your expressions of friendship to 
 the college. You reason rightly with the Baptists respecting this matter, 
 who, one would think, have sufficient proofs of the propriety of it, from 
 the struggles amongst themselves. But we are, and ever have been, in 
 these respects, a wrong-headed people. I am happy to have a better 
 opinion of their hearts. I hope Mr. Rogers s lecturing maybe of use, and 
 that you may both labor with great success, and, as father Aldcn says, 
 with good agreement. 
 
 I am sensible that your attention to a school must greatly interfere 
 with your discharge of the duty of a pastor, but I hope this may not be 
 without its good effect to counterbalance that loss, since there appears to 
 be a needs be for it. In your letter to Mr. Pitman you mentioned Win 
 chester, in possession of his fifth wife and a red coat. Please, in your 
 
 1 President Manning here refers, doubtless, to the honorary degree of Doctor 
 in Divinity, which the University of Pennsylvania, as appears from their trien 
 nial catalogue, conferred upon him during the present year. Our readers will 
 not fail to observe, that while Manning seems to have been indifferent in regard 
 to his own honors and emoluments, he was careful in conferring the honors of 
 Rhode Island College upon the worthy who desired them. 
 
1781-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 351 
 
 next, to give us the particulars of that eccentric genius, his adherents, 
 success, etc., etc. 
 
 Mrs. Manning has been restored to her health for some time, except a 
 cold, which at present incommodes her. Joey Brown died in the fore 
 part of winter, as ripe for heaven, by every evidence which could be 
 wished for, as almost any person I ever saw. Many have dropped off 
 this winter in this town and Newport by chronic complaints, but at pres 
 ent good health is more prevalent. 
 
 With best respects to Mrs. Us tick and friends, in which Mrs. Manning 
 joins, and with sentiments of esteem, I am, as ever, 
 
 Yours, etc., 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, March 21, 1785. 
 To THE HONORABLE DAVID HOWELL, 
 
 IN CONGRESS AT NEW YORK : 
 
 g IR : _And the snow three and four feet deep ! what do you think of 
 that ? How do you think Mrs. Ho well fares this inclement, protracted 
 winter ? not to mention the cows, old Sorrel, etc., in regard to hay. 
 But I beg pardon for calling your attention from that higher region where 
 you are conversant, in settling the nation, to these sublunary things. To 
 be serious, we have not only had a hard winter, but the spring, thus far, 
 is much of the same tenor. We talk here much of removing to the tem 
 perate climate of Kentucky to avoid this snow and frost, which throw us 
 into a torpid state so great a part of the year. I saw your papa and fam 
 ily at meeting yesterday ; all well. Your friends in general are well. I 
 have enclosed Mr. Carter s paper of the 12th instant, containing the law 
 made at the last session of the General Assembly in relation to the import, 
 in Mr. Van. Horn s letter, which I authorize you to open that you may 
 see it, provided you have not yet received it. But I beg you to reendorse 
 it and direct it to Mr. Van Horn, to be left at Mr. Ustick s. The college 
 remains in statu quo. item, the church, congregation, politics of the town, 
 etc., for aught I know. I thank you for the newspapers you sent me. I 
 think the address to the York Assembly labored. Will it compass their 
 ends ? It is diverting enough to hear Doctors Ewing and Rush endeavor 
 ing to expose each other for their latent zeal for the Kirk, and exhibiting 
 to the world the naked truth. If, by their quarrel, an old proverb should be 
 verified, it might afford matter of rejoicing to many. But they are mem 
 bers of the militant church, and so I leave them to box it out. I told you 
 
352 
 
 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 in my last that the corporation had resolved to send me forward in the 
 spring to Congress, as you desired. But as you did not give much en 
 couragement of success from the application, I beg leave to inquire what 
 you think of the probability of our procuring a grant of some part of the 
 Western territory, instead of a grant of money, as I perceive, by vour letter 
 to Mr. Brown, you expect a land-office to be opened in the spring 1 This 
 would not augment the public debt, and would in time be productive for 
 the college. Rather than get nothing, I should be glad to accept of this. 
 This, however, is only a thought of my own, and suggested for your con 
 sideration, on which I should be glad of your opinion, in your next, that 
 I may take the sense of the corporation on this subject before I set out. 
 
 Pray, how go final-settlement notes and other continental securities in 
 New York at present ? You need not have been quite so short in your 
 last, for I make a point of writing whenever I can find anything to say ; 
 and would you wish, after reading this, to have me write again and say 
 nothing ? If so, I can spill ink and spoil paper as fast as most of my 
 neighbors. 
 
 Pray, what is likely to be the result of the wranglings of the Dutch and 
 the Emperor ? "Will there be a general war, and if so will it reach us ? 
 You stand on the watchtower, and can tell us, we presume, what may 
 be depended on. Now there is a claim entered for a very long letter, by 
 next post, by, sir, 
 
 Your humble servant, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 To Thomas Mackaness, Esq., of London, to whom, it 
 seems, Dr. Manning had shown kind attentions while a 
 captive at Providence during the war, he thus writes : 
 
 PROVIDENCE, July 10, 1785. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 Yours of April 27, 1785, with the box of books, containing five vol 
 umes quarto of Witsncr s Works, in Latin, came safe by the hand of 
 Mr. Fry. When they arrived I was absent at New York, or I should 
 have embraced an earlier opportunity of presenting my thanks to Mr. 
 Mackaness for the donation, and the kind attention which you have been 
 pleased to pay to me. Your letter last winter, by your son-in-law, came 
 safe to hand, but I had not the pleasure of seeing him. I took the ear- 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 353 
 
 liest opportunity of forwarding you a letter, by the care of our common 
 friend Deacon Mason, of Boston, in hopes it might have reached Mr. 
 Harvey s hands before he sailed. I am sorry you did not receive it. A 
 visit from you to your Providence friends was greatly wished for, and 
 indeed expected. Messrs. Jos. Rogers and Geo. Benson are well. The 
 former is mourning the loss of a dear and amiable wife. He feels that 
 the hand of God has touched him. He could sympathize with you in 
 calling to remembrance the tender and afflictive scenes through which you 
 have passed. I am glad to find that you think, however stormy the path, 
 that you have been led the right way towards the city of habitation. I 
 sincerely wish your afflictions maybe sanctified, so as to work for you " a 
 far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." I hope you may be so 
 happy as to settle your children to your mind ; but I should not think 
 they had fixed upon the most agreeable place. Yet contentment and in 
 dustry will, anywhere, answer the purposes of this life, which is, at best, 
 but a short passage to a long eternity. 
 
 The kind mention which you say you have heard made of me by your 
 honorable friend is pleasingly flattering, as, from bis universal character, 
 there are few men on earth of whose approbation I should be more am 
 bitious. The little services, if they may be termed services, in my power 
 to render you when here a captive, gave me, I am confident, a much 
 higher degree of pleasure than they could possibly afford you. That " it 
 is more blessed to give than to receive " I have found to bo true as often 
 as God has given me a heart to make the experiment, and I hope he will 
 give me more of that disposition. "Whether I shall ever be gratified in 
 my wishes to see the place of your nativity or not, I have yet to learn. 
 At several different times I thought the point nearly decided ; but I am 
 yet on the Hill at Providence, overwhelmed with cares. And though I 
 think my services of little importance to the church and college, my breth 
 ren and masters, it seems, think my presence here of some importance to 
 both. I have the satisfaction, however, to see my flock, both in the church 
 and college, again collected, beyond what they have been since the war 
 until lately. I have little to say of my success in the ministry. Yester 
 day I baptized three. The season was solemn. The audience is both 
 large and attentive, and I hope among them are some inquiring souls. 
 One of the members of college has lately, I hope, been brought to know 
 the Lord. Our number of students is about thirty-five, with a prospect 
 of increase. But as we are destitute of an adequate fund, this does but 
 increase my labors, as I am confined to constant teaching. 
 30* 
 
354 MANNING AND CHAP. VIIL 
 
 The Lord is gracious to many parts of this land, in of late pouring out 
 his Spirit upon the people. Mr. Gano has a rich blessing in New York. 
 The eastern part of New Jersey is also visited. In Vermont there is a 
 day of God s power, and so also in several of the interior parts of New 
 England. May that glorious kingdom come over all the earth ! I long 
 to hail the approach of the King of Zion, and I partly believe I shall live 
 to see the accomplishment of at least some of the glorious things spoken 
 of the city of God. 
 
 By recent accounts from Kentucky, five hundred miles down the Ohio 
 below Fort Pitt, I learn that God has done and is still doing wonders in 
 that wilderness. Seven or eight Baptist churches are here settled, and a 
 number of faithful but very unlettered ministers are engaged in the har 
 vest. To spread the knowledge of the Redeemer (who came preaching 
 in the wilderness of Judea) in the wilderness, has long been with me a 
 desirable object. And with this view I have conceived a design, if pos 
 sible, of furnishing their untutored minds with books. My plan is to 
 establish a library for the Baptist Association (to be established there this 
 year) of such books as are best adapted to their situation, to qualify their 
 ministers more thoroughly for their ministerial work, and to assist those 
 young men of promising abilities for the ministry with useful knowledge 
 before they enter on the work. With this view I am about to make col 
 lections of books in America, and I recommend the same no my corres 
 pondents in England, and request them to send them forward to the Rev. 
 Thomas Ustick, minister of the Baptist church at Philadelphia, with a 
 line to him informing him of the donors and the design. He will take 
 charge of the same, till they can be safely forwarded to Kentucky, for 
 the uses mentioned. Any services you can render in so good a cause 
 will be kindly accepted. They are almost wholly, I am told, destitute of 
 all kinds of books. I propose there shall be a book kept by the associa 
 tion, in which shall be entered the donors names, and what they contrib 
 uted. You have my best wishes, in which Mrs. Manning joins. 
 
 Your unworthy friend, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 P. S. Should I not have the pleasure to see you, please to present 
 my Christian salutation to Mr. Thornton when you return. 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 355 
 
 TO THE EEV. DK. EVANS. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, July 21, 1785. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 Yours of 26th and 31st of January came to hand last month while I 
 was in New York, the perusal of which gave me great pleasure, especially 
 that paragraph which mentions the additions to the churches in Bristol. 
 May you be so happy as to see the good work increase. Things, in ref 
 erence to religion, remain much as when I wrote last, except a greater 
 attention paid to public worship. Lord s Day before last I baptized three 
 persons. In several parts of New England the Lord is evidently at work. 
 In Vermont there is a glorious shower of divine influence, as also in the 
 city of New York and the eastern part of the Jerseys. My Brother Gano 
 is greatly blessed, upwards of forty having of late been added to his 
 church, among whom are two of his sons and one of his daughters. When 
 I heard last from there the work was increasing. I had the pleasure of a 
 short interview with Mr. Mullett in New York, and he twice or three 
 times gave us the pleasure of his company, though but a short time, as 
 he passed to and from Boston. He was kind enough to engage to trans 
 mit my letters safely to England. Your kind proffers of service to my 
 self or Mr. Stillman in soliciting for the college, should either of us be 
 sent, are very acceptable, but we have yet had no advice on that subject 
 from Dr. Stennett. Your account of the ideas of the Baptists with you, 
 respecting literary institutions, are very similar to those of the American 
 Baptists. We shall gladly receive the books you mention, and any oth 
 ers which you can spare, or procure for us. As there is no direct com 
 munication between Bristol and Providence, shall wish you to send them 
 via New York, to the care of my brother-in-law, John Stites, merchant, 
 at the corner of Queen and Chapel Streets in that city, with a line advis 
 ing him where to send them. I shall inform him of this advice to you, 
 and request him to forward them immediately to me. Dr. Stennett s 
 Discourses on Domestic Duties I have, and highly esteem them. I wish 
 every family were possessed of the book. Mr. Booth s treatise on Bap 
 tism, and his tract on Church Communion, he was kind enough to present 
 to me last year. Upon reading, I recommended it in almost the same 
 words in which you mention it ; alleging that I thought it would super 
 sede the necessity of any future publications on the subject. I wish it 
 could be circulated throughout this continent, and am determined to use 
 my endeavors for that purpose. I shall write him on this subject by this 
 
356 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 opportunity. The Association Letters, the sermon on Walking by Faith, 
 and the fifth volume of Saurin s Sermons, all came safe to hand, for which 
 I beg leave to present to you my hearty thanks, and wish, in my turn, it 
 were in my power to afford you equal pleasure by transmitting some valua 
 ble American publications, but this is a barren soil. The embarrassments 
 of trade, especially in the New England States, open before us a gloomy 
 prospect, producing an amazing stagnation of business, which must 
 continue till new channels are opened, or the restrictions on the American 
 trade are taken off in the ports of Britain and France. Our merchants 
 at present sink money by all the trade they drive. This renders it next to 
 impossible to make remittances to Britain, as bills are eight percent, above 
 par. Were it otherwise I should try to send over for some books on my 
 own account ; especially for some of the publications of our ministers, in 
 order to circulate them in this country ; and for the Encyclopaedia Britan- 
 nica, a book we expected in our catalogue, but it did not come. From 
 the accounts we have had of it I presume it must be a work of the great 
 est utility. 
 
 The college continues to increase gradually in the number of students, 
 which at present is thirty-seven, one of whom, I have reason to believe, 
 has been recently converted. I have long wished for an account of your 
 Education Society, the foundation, who are admitted and Avith Avhat 
 qualifications, the course of studies pursued, manner of teaching, time re 
 quired in completing the course, etc., etc., but I fear I should be trouble 
 some to ask it of you. Some information on these subjects I received 
 from my dear friend Mr. Mullett, but he referred me to Mr. Evans, and, 
 if I rightly recollect, mentioned a book published from whence I could 
 draw this information. If giving this information should be troublesome, 
 I do not wish it, as from your situation you cannot surely be in want of 
 employment. One thing more I wish to mention, which is, that the new 
 settlement of Kentucky, five hundred miles down the Ohio river below 
 Fort Pitt, was first settled by Baptists. It now contains more than thirty 
 thousand souls. There are seven Baptist churches and eight ministers, 
 who propose forming an association this year. They inform me that they 
 are extremely destitute of books, and the ministers are illiterate, but wish 
 for the means of information. I have proposed to my friends the estab 
 lishing of a library of some useful books for the benefit of the association, 
 that the ministers and those who are candidates for the ministry may 
 have the use of it ; and of it may I say the foundation of a seat of educa 
 tion. To this end I have written to my friends in different parts to 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 3">7 
 
 collect what books they can, and send them to the care of Rev. Thomas 
 Ustick, minister of the Baptist church in Philadelphia, to be ready to be 
 sent forward by the first good conveyance. Could your ministering 
 brethren in England be induced to send their works, they would compose 
 an excellent library for this purpose. I find by a publication of a Pres 
 byterian, under the title of a History of Kentucky, that his denomination 
 mean to monopolize and gain an establishment there in a literary way. 
 We have in contemplation the putting in for a share. I have paid some 
 attention to this subject, and don t mean to lose sight of it. Your assist 
 ance and influence in favor of this design will be the most acceptable. 
 Chanty should not, indeed, end at home. 
 
 "With sentiments of esteem, etc., 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 P. S. It is proposed to have a book in the intended library, contain 
 ing the names of the donors, and the donations made by them, that pos 
 terity may know what attention the present generation paid to the dissem 
 inating useful knowledge in the wilderness. Whether the design succeeds 
 or not, I shall have the satisfaction of attempting to do good ; and if I am 
 not greatly deceived, a little laid out in this way will turn to good account. 
 I mean to send them, if possible, soon, a person of our denomination to 
 open a seminary amongst them ; and, indeed, wore I not confined to the 
 college, should spend, God willing, the next winter there myself. Bibles and 
 religious books which arc printed to be distributed gratis amongst the poor, 
 would be well bestowed there, for the people are religiously disposed. The 
 fullest confidence may be placed in Mr, Ustick, that everything sent to 
 his care will be forwarded to them. He is a man of principle. As the 
 term of human life is so short, and the sphere of our activity so contracted, 
 it behooves us to exert ourselves to fill it up, to the utmost, with acts of 
 public utility, especially in promoting the interests of the Redeemer. 
 
 Dr. Manning, as all his writings show, considered piety 
 as the first and indispensable requisite in a minister. No 
 degree of genius or of mental cultivation was allowed by 
 him to compensate for the want of a heart renewed by 
 the Holy Spirit, and moved to undertake the care of souls 
 by the constraining love of Christ. He believed, never- 
 
358 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 theless, in an educated ministry. How earnestly he la 
 bored to secure this for the churches more especially of 
 his own denomination, the College of Rhode Island and 
 the Warren Association are perpetual witnesses. In these 
 letters to Thomas Mackaness and Dr. Evans we have an 
 illustration of his philanthropic efforts to enlighten the 
 illiterate Baptist ministers of Kentucky, and to provide 
 instruction for the rising generation in that then remote 
 wilderness ; and this, too, when " overwhelmed," as he 
 expresses it, with his own cares and duties. For a fuller 
 development of his plans with reference to Kentucky, 
 the reader is referred to a letter addressed to the Rev. 
 Dr. Rippon, and dated July 22. Three years later we 
 find Manning, according to Benedict, corresponding with 
 the Baptists in Virginia, and encouraging them, through 
 their established organizations, to found a seminary of 
 learning for the special benefit of their rapidly-increasing 
 numbers in that section of the country. 
 
 During the year 1784 Dr. Manning, it appears, addressed 
 a letter to the Hon. Granville Sharp, LL.D., of London, 
 a zealous member of the Established Church, but liberal 
 to Protestant Dissenters of all classes, and noted for his 
 opposition to the American war. He was also distin 
 guished for his opposition to negro slavery, and for the 
 zeal with which he engaged in various patriotic and phil 
 anthropic movements. His publications, which were nu 
 merous, he presented to the college library, with a set of 
 the works of his grandfather, Dr. John Sharp, Archbishop 
 of York. He subsequently sent other valuable presents 
 to the library. The following letter was written in re 
 ply to Manning : 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 359 
 
 OLD JEWRY, LONDON, 21st -Feb., 1785. 
 REVEREND SIR : 
 
 On the 22d ult. I received your obliging letter of the 12th October, 
 1784, by the hands of Mr. Drowne, who seems highly worthy of the ex 
 cellent character you gave me of him. 
 
 My best thanks are due to you for the satisfactory intelligence of the 
 safe arrival of the books which I sent for the library of the college in 
 Providence, and also for your full and explicit account of that very use 
 ful institution. 
 
 Some additions have been made, I believe, to my tracts on Congrega 
 tional Courts since I sent the copies of them by Mr. Watson ; and there 
 fore I have now sent another copy for the college library, and one for 
 yourself; though indeed the tract is still incomplete by the want of an 
 index ; for I have not had leisure to revise and correct the index that 
 has been made for it by a person whom I employed for that purpose 
 some time ago. 
 
 Two of the additional tracts relate to the laying out of settlements on un 
 cultivated lands, a subject of very important consideration to America ; 
 for if care is not taken in these early timcsi before land becomes scarce, 
 to reserve a due proportion of cottage-land, and common-land around 
 every town, as well as around new settlements, for the accommodation 
 of poor industrious families, and also small portions of land for the main 
 tenance of schools and other public establishments, it will be very difficult, 
 a few years hence, to procure land for such purposes. 
 
 A well-regulated agrarian law would also be exceedingly beneficial to 
 America to prevent monopolies of land ; for when large tracts of land 
 are engrossed in a few hands, it necessarily occasions not only internal 
 weakness, and an inability to defend a country against foreign invaders, 
 but it also inevitably reduces to slavery the industrious laborers who cul 
 tivate the enormous tracts of the haughty overgrown landholders ; for 
 this is the very foundation of the detestable aristocratical oppression and 
 monarchial despotism in Russia, Poland, Bohemia, Germany, France, 
 and all other countries under the unmerciful dominion of the two beasts 
 of tyranny, which are now preparing themselves for a speedy retribution 
 of the divine vengeance ! 
 
 A mediocrity in the proportion of landed possessions in the hands of 
 freeholders, together with an ample provision of cottage-lands for the la 
 boring poor, and common-lands for all other housekeepers, will certainly 
 be most beneficial for every community ; and such mediocrity of landed 
 
360 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 possessions may be gradually obtained, without injury to the rights of 
 the present possessors, by restraining inheritances to an equal distribu 
 tion in gavel-kind amongst all the sons of landholders ; or, if the first 
 born is to be allowed a preference, it should be only to the amount of a 
 certain limited number of acres (as many as shall be deemed a reasonable 
 competence for an independent gentleman), and the overplus to be divided 
 amongst the nearest of kin, whose possessions are below the said limited 
 competence of landed inheritance, unless the remainder of the land be 
 otherwise legally disposed of, by the will and testament of the late pos 
 sessor. 
 
 The inheritances of heiresses should also be subject to the same limita 
 tions ; so that if the husband has the legal competence of land already 
 in his own right, the mother s estate should be reserved for the eldest 
 son ; but to be held by the latter, when of age, no longer than during his 
 father s life; with an option, however, to give up either his father s or 
 mother s inheritance to the younger children. By this means the over 
 grown possessions would be soon reduced to reasonable competences, 
 and the number of substantial, independent landholders would be greatly 
 increased, for the general security of the country, wherever such regula 
 tions shall take place. This would set bounds to the insatiable thirst of 
 realizing, which prompts some thrifty men to " lay house to house and 
 field to field ; " for they would be compelled, by a just agrarian law, to 
 find some more beneficial mode of employing their superfluous wealth, 
 and the most avaricious of them would undoubtedly be induced to em 
 ploy it in trade, which would greatly promote the extension of commerce, 
 and consequently the welfare of the whole community. I have enclosed 
 a copy of a letter which I wrote to a friend of the Abbe de Mably, to 
 show tha t the defects which he observed in some of the American con 
 stitutions would be effectually remedied by the ancient system of Frank- 
 pledge (as described in my last work), which was manifestly the polity 
 of the commonwealth of Israel whilst under the theocracy ; for the same 
 arrangement of the people into exact numerical divisions of tithings, 
 hundreds, and thousands, were then ordained as a part of their political 
 constitutions, though it was even at that time too frequently neglected ; 
 whereby the people fell into confusion and anarchy, and " every man did 
 what seemed right in his own eyes." But this was not occasioned by 
 any defect in the constitution itself, but merely by the neglect of it ; for I 
 know of no other method but this, if duly maintained by annual renewal, 
 whereby liberty, equal right, and national security can be so effectually 
 supported. 
 
1784-1785. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 361 
 
 Probably what I have written concerning the popular right of electing 
 bishops (see tract No. 5) may seem superfluous, as well to yourself as 
 to some other learned professors of divinity, who have not been educated 
 in an Episcopal Church ; nevertheless, it is a subject worthy your consid 
 eration, especially as it will be found that the most important objections 
 that have usually been made by Protestant Dissenters to the order of 
 bishops, would be effectually removed by the restoration of popular right 
 in the election of them ; and that all danger of tumults in such elections 
 would be obviated by electing two of the most eminent presbyters, of un 
 impeachable morality and virtue, whose appointment to the dignity 
 should be decided by lot, after solemn prayer by the whole congregation, 
 according to the apostolic example related in Acts i. 15-26. I remain, 
 .with due respect and esteem, reverend sir, 
 
 Your most obedient, humble servant, 
 
 GRANVILLE SHARP. 
 
 To this letter Manning replies : 
 
 PROVIDENCE, STATE OP RHODE ISLAND, July 26, 1785. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 In May last, just before I left Providence for New York and Philadel 
 phia, I received by the ship London your most acceptable letters of Feb. 
 21, 22, as also the copy of your letter to a friend of the Abbe de Mably, 
 dated Dec. 30, 1784, and your letter of March 4, 1785, together with the 
 two copies of your last work on Congregational Courts. As the Hope 
 had a long passage, I received the letters and books by the London first, 
 but the duplicates by the Hope came safe. I have complied and shall 
 comply literally with your desire of making them public. Your letter re 
 lating to ecclesiastical matters, after perusal, I communicated to my min 
 istering brethren of the Episcopal Church in my vicinity, who took a copy 
 of it. I then took it to New York and communicated it to some of the 
 members of Congress ; lent it to Dr. Provost, the rector, who desired lib 
 erty to copy it, which I granted him, withal requesting him to communi 
 cate it to his brethren. He proposed doing so, and laying it before the 
 convention of the Episcopal clergy of Virginia and New York inclusive, 
 to meet in September next at the city of Philadelphia. Two weeks since, 
 I received from General Knox, via Boston, Archbishop Sharp s Sermons 
 and Works, in seven volumes, with two volumes of Sharp on Congrega 
 tional Courts. The General informed me that by some accident they had 
 31 
 
362 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 been wet. This had marred the beauty of the binding, but had not in 
 jured the print. No letter accompanied them, but I presume they were 
 designed for the library, where I shall place them. The kind attention of 
 Mr. Sharp to this college has laid me and the friends of it under great 
 obligations, which I beg leave most heartily to acknowledge, by returning 
 him, as well in behalf of the college as myself, our united thanks. Shall 
 comply with your wishes respecting Bishop Wilson s works, whenever 
 they may arrive. Your treatise on Frank-pledge, with that on Congrega 
 tional Courts, I handed to the Hon. Messrs. Howell and Ellery, mem 
 bers of Congress for this State ; but they had fixed upon the plan of lay 
 ing out the back lands before my arrival. As I was pleased with your 
 ideas on that subject, I strongly recommended to them an examination, 
 and an adoption of your plan where it would be an improvement upon 
 theirs. I mean by this opportunity to furnish you with their publication 
 on this subject, if I can procure it. I thank you for the interest you feel 
 in the welfare and future happiness of America, and for your generous 
 and benevolent exertions to promote the same. These exertions I doubt 
 not Avill meet a due reward from the supreme Judge and Rewarder of 
 merit. Your publications are highly approved by the gentlemen of my 
 acquaintance. To point out an inadequate mode of defending the rights 
 without laying a foundation for subverting the liberties of mankind, is, in 
 my view, the great desideratum of government, and I have yet seen noth 
 ing which promises fairer to accomplish this than your scheme, a part of 
 which, at least, I expect will be adopted by the United States. 
 
 I concur with you in sentiment exactly concerning the importance of a 
 mediocrity in the proportion of landed possessions in the hands of free 
 holders. It is the real strength of a nation, and most agreeable to the 
 dictates of reason and the rights of man. In New England a system was 
 adopted when the country Avas first settled, Avhich remains in full vigor to 
 this day ; so that it is hard to find many here in the extremes of poverty 
 or wealth. It was this spirit which, in the last war, captivated British 
 armies, or repelled them from their borders, as it is calculated to dis 
 seminate knowledge and the love of liberty throughout the whole commu 
 nity. Many if not most of the States have enacted laws by which the es 
 tates of those who die intestate shall be equally divided amongst all the 
 surviving children, both male and female, or at most give the oldest son 
 but two shares. In consequence of this many people make no other will, 
 but appoint executors to execute that which the law has made for them. 
 This is a guard against the danger arising from overgrown estates, as 
 
1781-178-3. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 363 
 
 many who devise them by will or otherwise conform, nearly, to what the 
 law points out as equitble. This renders an agrarian law in a measure 
 unnecessary. 
 
 For your friendship and assistance afforded Mr. Drowne, I thank you, 
 and shall be happy, in my turn, to testify my readiness to repay the kind 
 ness. I have the pleasure to inform you that the college at Providence 
 daily increases in reputation and number of students. Some valuable 
 though small additions have been lately made to our library, which con 
 sists now of upwards of two thousand volumes. The prospects from this 
 country of augmenting our funds, so as to establish an adequate number 
 of professors, from the decay of trade and the scarcity of money are at 
 present rather gloomy ; but we hope some generous benefactors may yet 
 arise and obviate this difficulty. 
 
 I have the pleasure to inform you that there is an evident alteration for 
 the better in the morals of the people throughout this country. Religion 
 too begins again to raise her drooping head ; and what affords me peculiar 
 satisfaction is, that a spirit of moderation prevails beyond what has been 
 known since the first settlement of New England. The various denomi 
 nations of Christians are cultivating a spirit of brotherly love by an un 
 reserved intercourse with each other. Among the many mischievous con 
 sequences resulting from the late war, we are happy to find that the 
 prevalence of a spirit of toleration, and a more general knowledge of the 
 doctrine of religious liberty, in some measure counterbalance them. 
 
 That you may long live to promote the great interests of mankind by 
 your shining abilities and indefatigable labors, and have the happiness to 
 sec the good effects of them on society, and at last be admitted to receive 
 an ample reward of all your labors in the regions of bliss, is the ardent 
 wish of, dear sir, 
 
 Your sincere friend and very humble servant, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 TO THE KEY. DK. RIPPON. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, July 22, 1785. 
 MY DEAR BROTHER : 
 
 Yours of Dec. 24, 1784, came to hand last month, together with the 
 pamphlet occasioned by the death of that eminent man, Dr. Gifford, for 
 which please accept my best thanks. That of Feb. 23, 1785, came by the 
 Hope, together with the acceptable presents of Deacon Shepherd and Rev. 
 
364 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 John Ryland, for which, in the name of the college, please to present 
 them my most cordial thanks. This should have been done by the cor 
 poration, had a meeting of that body been held since. I am greatly 
 pleased, as well as instructed, by both those valuable works, though my 
 attention has been of late so much taken up in other ways that I can 
 command but little time for reading. With you I regret your want of 
 timely information of the catalogue of books sent for the college ; and I 
 make no doubt of your being both able and willing to have made a con 
 siderable saving Tor the college. Had I been then as well acquainted 
 with your character as I have been since, I should have addressed you on 
 that subject. "We did then, as we thought, the best we could do ; but my 
 expectations were disappointed, I confess, in the price of the books. 
 Should we ever be so fortunate as to have more money to lay out in that 
 way, which I sec but little prospect of, we shall take the Hbcrty to solicit Mr. 
 Rippon s assistance. I am pleased to hear that Dr. Gill s Exposition is 
 to be completed. Many of them arc now wanted ; but the difficulty of 
 making remittances from New England, and the inconceivable scarcity of 
 cash, have almost put an end to business. New channels of trade will 
 probably soon open, but not, I fear, before many of our mercantile people 
 are ruined. I rejoice to hear that the cause of religion is on the advance 
 in your churches, and that our denomination increases in some of the 
 counties. Mr. Evans gives me agreeable information from Bristol of con 
 siderable additions to two of our churches in the city. 
 
 And though stupidity greatly prevails in general, we still have some 
 agreeable revivals in different parts on this continent. The wilderness of 
 Vermont still continues to blossom as the rose. New York and the east 
 ern part of New Jersey are blessed with a joyful harvest. My Brother 
 Gano appears to be the principal instrument whom God honors in that 
 city, so lately filled with violence. Three of his own children are in the 
 number of converts ; and if I augur rightly, one of his sons, a doctor, 1 
 
 i The Rev. Stephen Gano, M.D. He was born in the city of New York, Dec. 
 25, 1762, being the third son of the Rev. John Gano. At the age of thirteen he 
 was placed under the care of his maternal uncle, Dr. Stites, to be educated for 
 the medical profession. Having made honorable proficiency in his studies, he 
 received an appointment as surgeon in the army, and entered the public service. 
 He was at this time nineteen years old. His mother, who had been the principal 
 agent in procuring for him the appointment, having buckled on his regimentals, 
 said to him as they parted, concealing her tears, "My son, may God preserve 
 your life and your patriotism; the one may be sacrificed iu retaking and pre- 
 
1784-1785. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 365 
 
 must preach Christ to others. Upwards of forty have been lately added, 
 and the work, by late information, is on the increase. Grace reigns also 
 in several places in New England. Some drops have, in mercy, fallen on 
 Providence. Three I baptized Lord s Day sennight. Public worship is 
 better attended than since the war, in our meeting. I should be happy to 
 receive a letter from Mr. Rippon on spiritual things, but business, at 
 proper times, calls for our attention. I thank you for your kind attention 
 to Mr. Drowne, as he is modest to an excess. And since you cannot com 
 mand, or at least make use of the wings of a dove to visit America, what 
 think you of substituting in their place those of a ship ? I would engage 
 that you should have the fervent prayers of many of your American friends 
 for a safe and speedy passage, and a most kindly welcome to these western 
 shores ; and ivithal I have prepared you a lodging, which (as a minister once 
 said of his bed), if homely, is a sincere one. I am confident no house in 
 your capital would please me better than Mr. Rippon s, should I ever be 
 permitted to visit your country ; nor should any be preferred to it as a 
 home ; but I almost give over the expectations of seeing my English 
 
 serving the home of your childhood ; but let me never hear that you have for 
 feited the birthright of a freeman." He continued in the service two years, and 
 then retired to settle as a physician in Tappan, now Orangetown, New York. 
 Soon after his conversion he was impressed with the idea that it was his duty to 
 preach the gospel. He was accordingly ordained in the Cold Street Church, 
 New York, his father and President Manning participating in the exercises of 
 the occasion. This was on the 2d of August, 1786. He at once engaged in mis 
 sionary labors on the Hudson, and wherever he went his preaching awakened 
 a deep interest. He was successively pastor of the Baptist church at Ilillsdale 
 and at Hudson. In 1792 he received an invitation to become the pastor of the 
 Baptist church in Providence, which invitation he accepted. Some members of 
 the society, it is understood, at first objected to his being the pastor of a church 
 whose relations with the college were so intimate, on the ground that he had 
 never himself received a collegiate education. These objections, however, were 
 soon removed, and the most cordial and friendly relations were established be 
 tween himself and his people. Here he continued during the remainder of his 
 useful life. He died on the 18th of August, 1828, in the sixty -seventh year of his 
 age, greatly beloved and respected throughout the entire community. The event 
 was immediately made known by the tolling of the city bells, and the children 
 who were assembled in the several schools were dismissed, out of respect to his 
 memory. His funeral was attended by an immense concourse of people, and a 
 sermon appropriate to the occasion was preached by the Kev. Dr. Sharp, of 
 Boston. 
 During his pastorate of thirty-eight years Dr. Gano was permitted to witness 
 
 81* 
 
3G6 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII 
 
 brethren till I meet them above, the prospect of which often gives me 
 pleasure. There I hope to see and converse with the whole family at 
 home, without the aid or necessity of pen and ink. In the mean time I feel 
 my obligations to diligence in the business of my holy calling, that I may 
 be found ready. 
 
 The college still increases, though gradually. Our number is thirty- 
 seven ; one of whom, I hope, has been called by grace. Last week we 
 buried our venerable chancellor, Stephen Hopkins, Esq., LL.D , for many 
 years Governor of the Colony, and one of those distinguished worthies 
 who composed the First Congress. He was one of the greatest men our 
 country has reared. At the first meeting of the corporation he was chosen 
 chancellor, and continued in the office till his death. In him the college 
 has lost a most valuable member and officer, and I myself a particular 
 friend. Mr. Van Horn has obtained something for the college by his so 
 licitations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, in which business he is still 
 employed. I carried in May last an application to Congress, by a memo 
 rial, etc., for compensation for the rents and damages done the college by 
 
 many signal manifestations of the divine power and presence. In one year he 
 baptized one hundred and forty-seven converts, swelling the number of church 
 communicants to six hundred and forty-eight. As an evidence of his general 
 usefulness, it may be mentioned, that for nineteen consecutive years he pre 
 sided as moderator at the meetings of the Warren Association. " Be had," says 
 the Rev. Dr. Jackson, " a line, commanding figure, being more than six feet in 
 stature, and every way well proportioned. His voice was full, sonorous, and 
 altogether agreeable. His manner was perfectly artless and unstudied. He had 
 great command of language, and could speak with fluency and appropriateness, 
 with little or no premeditation. His discourses were eminently experimental." 
 Dr. Gano was married on the 25th of October, 1782, to Cornelia, daughter of 
 Capt. Josiah Vavasor, of the city of New York. By her he had two sons and 
 two daughters. On the 4th of August, 1789, he was a second time married to 
 Polly, daughter of Col. Tallmadge, of New York. By this marriage there were 
 also four children, three daughters and one son. His third wife was Mary, 
 daughter of Hon. Joseph Brown, by whom he had one daughter, Mrs. Eliza B. 
 Rogers. In 1801 he was married to Mrs. Joanna Latting, of Ilillsdale, N. Y., 
 who survived him many years. Of his six daughters, four have married clergy 
 men ; namely, the Rev. John Ilolroyd, the Rev. Peter Ludlow, the Rev. Dr. Ben 
 edict, and the Rev. Dr. Jackson. Dr. Gano was an honored and useful member 
 of the Masonic fraternity, having been initiated in Mount Vernon Lodge, Prov 
 idence, on the 10th of July, 1801. Twenty-five years afterwards (Jan. 5, 1826), he, 
 in company with the late Right Rev. Bishop Griswold, took the Knight Tem 
 plar s degree in the Providence Encampment. 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 3G7 
 
 the troops during the war, but have as yet got nothing done. The pa- 
 pers were read and a committee appointed while I was there, before whom 
 we had a hearing, and their promise of a speedy report ; but I fear little is 
 to be expected from that quarter. 
 
 In the new settlement of Kentucky, five hundred miles down the Ohio 
 below Fort Pitt, I am credibly informed that there are upwards of thirty 
 thousand inhabitants, amongst whom are seven Baptist churches and eight 
 ministers ; that the people incline much to be of our denomination ; that 
 the ministers are not only very illiterate, but that there is not a person of 
 our persuasion capable of teaching even the languages amongst them ; 
 and that they have a desire to enjoy the means of education, more es 
 pecially as the Presbyterians, though greatly inferior in numbers, and 
 later on the ground, appear to be maneuvering to avail themselves of 
 advantages from being first in promoting literature in that quarter. I 
 conjectured this from reading a pamphlet, written by one of that society, 
 giving an account of the first settlement of that country. Accordingly 
 I wrote my thoughts on the subject to our Western ministers, withal re 
 questing them to possess themselves of the best information they could get 
 before the next Association at Philadelphia to be held in October, that some 
 thing might be done to encourage them. Since then I am informed that 
 they propose establishing an association there this year. With a view to 
 assist them, I have proposed the raising of a small library, of such books 
 as may be more immediately serviceable to the ministers, and those who 
 arc candidates for the ministry, and am using my endeavors to procure 
 what books I can for that purpose in America. But as I expect the con 
 tributions will be small, I greatly wish for the assistance of our English 
 friends. The proposal is to forward the books to the Rev. Thomas 
 Ustick, Baptist minister in Philadelphia, to be forwarded by the first 
 good opportunity ; that a book shall be kept in which the names of the 
 contributors shall be enrolled, with an account of their donations, that 
 posterity may know what exertions were made, and by whom, to propa 
 gate knowledge and religion in that wilderness. I mean to have this 
 library under such regulations as that it may form the basis of a literary 
 institution there. Those of our ministers who are able, by contributing 
 their works, would greatly assist in laying this foundation; and I 
 doubt not that posterity will rise up and call them blessed. If you think 
 well of this proposal, I doubt not but you will be willing to lend your 
 influence to carry it into effect. I mean not only to propose, but, accord 
 ing to my ability, assist in this matter ; and also to promote,, as far as 
 
368 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 possible, an academy amongst them, in which I have some prospect of 
 succeeding. As I shall not write on this subject to any but Mr. Evans 
 and yourself, I would thank you to mention it where and to whom you 
 think proper. Those Bibles and religious books printed by societies to 
 be distributed among the poor, would be well bestowed there at present. 
 I shall be happy on all occasions and by every opportunity to receive a 
 line from Mr. Eippon. With sentiments of esteem, 
 
 I am yours, in Jesus, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 Dr. Manning s brief eulogium upon his " particular 
 friend " Governor Hopkins, the first chancellor of the 
 college, was well deserved. This great and good man 
 closed his long, honorable, and useful life on the loth of 
 July, 1785, in the seventy-ninth year of his age. "From 
 the vigor of his understanding, and the intuitive energy 
 of his mind, he had established," says his biographer, " a 
 character not only prominent in the annals of his country, 
 but in the walks of literature. Possessing a commanding 
 genius, his constant and assiduous application in the pur 
 suit of knowledge eminently distinguished him in the first 
 class of literati. A leading and active promoter of literary 
 and scientific intelligence, he attached himself in early 
 youth to the study of books and men, and continued to 
 be a constant and improving reader, a close and careful 
 observer, until the period of his death. Holding all 
 abridgments and abridgers in very low estimation, it is 
 cited, in exemplification of his habitual deep research, and 
 the indefatigability with which he penetrated the recesses, 
 instead of skimming the surface of things, that instead of 
 depending upon summaries and concentrated authorities, 
 he perseveringly perused the whole of the great collection 
 of ancient and modern history, compiled about half a cen 
 tury ago, by some distinguished scholars in Europe ; and 
 
1781-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 that he also read through all of Thurloe s and other pon 
 derous collections of state papers." Governor Hopkins 
 professed the principles of the society of Friends, at 
 whose places of worship he was a regular attendant. He 
 was a .firm believer in the Christian religion, but not big 
 oted in his belief, treating all societies of religious people 
 with respect. As we have before stated, he was a warm 
 friend of the college, and Libored zealously to promote 
 its interests. 
 
 The following brief letter from the Rev. Dr. Evans, 
 conveys the pleasing intelligence that the books, to which 
 allusion has already been made, had been voted to the 
 college by the Bristol Education Society : 
 
 BRISTOL, Sept. 5, 1785. 
 
 DEAR SIR: 
 
 I take this opportunity, by my worthy young friend Mr. Waldo, of in 
 forming you that at our late annual meeting of the Education Society 
 here, Aug. 24, I obtained a vote in favor of your college, respecting the 
 many valuable books we have to dispose of, and am empowered to send 
 such as I may approve of. I shall take an early opportunity of doing 
 this, and when received shall hope for the favor of a line from you. 
 
 I have also to request the favor of a diploma of M. A. for my worthy 
 colleage, the Eev. James Newton, a gentleman whose sound learning and 
 amiable character will do more honor to the title than the title will do to 
 him. He is totally ignorant of this application, nor should I have made 
 it but that it hurt me to think so worthy a man should appear to be neg 
 lected, whilst Mr. Hall and myself, who are connected with him in the 
 academy, and esteem it sufficient honor to be his equals, are, each of us 
 graduated. And by a late regulation our names will all appear very con 
 spicuously in our Museum. 
 
 I write this in haste, and remain, with every wish friendship can dic 
 tate for the happiness of you and all your extensive connections, dear 
 
 sir, your affectionate 
 
 Friend and brother, 
 
 CALEB EVANS. 
 
370 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 This donation consisting of Walton s Biblio Sacra 
 Polyglotta with CastelPs Lexicon, in 8 vols. folio ; Bayle s 
 Dictionary, 5 vols. folio ; Chambers Cyclopaedia, 2 vols. 
 folio ; several Fathers of the church, and standard works 
 in science, history, and literature was received early the 
 following year. Such evidences of kind feeling on the part 
 of those with whom this country had so recently been at 
 war, must have been highly gratifying at the time, as they 
 most certainly are even at the present day. This society 
 was founded in the year 1780, in aid of the Baptist 
 Academy at Bristol, " to the end that dissenting con 
 gregations, especially of the Baptist denomination, in any 
 part of the British dominions, may be more effectually 
 supplied with a succession of able and evangelical minis 
 ters." The society has been eminently useful. It is now 
 in the possession of a very valuable library, containing the 
 collection of books, paintings, etc., of the Rev, Dr. An 
 drew Gifford, for many years sub-librarian of the British 
 Museum, and the library of Thomas Llewelyn, LL.D. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Sept. 9, 1785. 
 To THE HONORABLE DAVID HOWELL, 
 
 MEMBER or CONGRESS IN J^EW YORK : 
 
 SIR : At the annual meeting of the corporation yesterday, we were 
 appointed a committee to address you, in their name, on the subject of their 
 petition to Congress for an allowance for rents, and for damages done the 
 edifice while occupied by the public, which is so justly due to them ; and 
 to request you to exert yourself to bring that business to an issue as 
 speedily and favorably as possible before you leave Congress ; more es 
 pecially as they expect to have no member to succeed you who will have 
 it in his power or in his inclination to serve the interests of the college 
 equal to its secretary. 
 
 It is imagined that your intimacy and interest with the committee ap 
 pointed to report on our petition, will enable you, before the report is 
 
1784-1785. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 371 
 
 made, to discover what will be the tenor of it. Of this advantage we wish 
 you to avail yourself; and, should it wear an unfavorable aspect, prevent 
 its being made. Such a report might preclude us from ever obtaining 
 any allowance from our own Legislature; but if the petition is either 
 pending before Congress, or the prayer of it rejected by them, our prospects 
 of assistance and relief from this quarter will be very unpromising, how 
 ever they might prove otherwise. 
 
 You may rely that this is, by your best friends here, considered as a 
 matter of no small importance ; and they believe that your interest in 
 Congress can even obtain the prayer of our petition, if it is in any wise 
 practicable ; and they also think that it will be no inconsiderable acces 
 sion to that rich harvest of honor which, as a delegate of this State, you 
 have already reaped. With sentiments of esteem, we subscribe ourselves, 
 Your friends and fellow-citizens, 
 
 JAMES MANNING, 1 
 
 JOHN BROWN, t Committee. 
 
 ENOS HITCHCOCK, J 
 
 On Saturday, Dec. 3, of this year, the Hon. Joseph 
 Brown, LL.D., of whose sickness Manning in his corres 
 pondence makes mention, died at his house, in the fifty- 
 second year of his age. " His funeral," says his obituary, 
 " was attended by a numerous train of mourning relatives, 
 and the most respectable inhabitants of the town, and a 
 discourse suitable to the occasion was delivered by Dr. 
 Manning The Faculty and students joined the pro 
 cession as mourners, and felt the loss of a Maecenas." His 
 character and life we have already given in our sketches 
 of the Brown family. 
 
 We close this chapter with a correspondence between 
 Manning and John Gill, a goldsmith of London. It re 
 lates principally to the publications of the Rev. Dr. John 
 Gill, 1 and will on this account be found interesting. The 
 
 i This distinguished Baptist divine died at his house at Camberwel), Oct. 14, 
 1771, in the seventy-fifth year of his age. He was pastor of the Baptist church 
 
372 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 last letter contains a pleasant bibliographical "morceau," 
 which the editor of the forthcoming edition of Backus s 
 Ecclesiastical History will note in his book of references. 
 
 LONDON, March 13, 1784. 
 REVEREND SIR : 
 
 I take the liberty to inform you of the death of Mr. George Keith, 1 book 
 seller in London. He died Dec. 4, 1782, and left me his sole executor. 
 
 and congregation at Horselydown Southwark, near London, for fifty-one 
 years. The following is a list of bis published writings, all of which are to be 
 found in the library of the University, having been bequeathed to the college by 
 the author (see Chap. IV. p. 199): (1.) Ancient Mode of Baptizing by Immer 
 sion maintained. 8vo. London, 1726. (2.) Defense of Ancient Mode of Baptiz 
 ing by Immersion. 8vo. London, 1727. (3.) Exposition of Solomon s Song. Fo 
 lio. London, 1728. A fourth edition of this work was published in 1805, in two 
 octavo volumes. (4.) Prophecies respecting the Messiah fulfilled in Jesus. 8vo. 
 London, 1728. (5.) The Cause of God and Truth (in answer to Dr. Whitby on 
 the Five Points). 4 vols. 8vo. London, 1735-8. A fifth edition was published in 
 1838, in one octavo volume. (6.) Exposition of the New Testament. 3 vols. folio. 
 London, 1746-8. (7.) Exposition of the Old Testament. 6 vols. folio. London, 
 1748-63. A new edition of both Testaments, with a memoir by Dr. Rippon, and a 
 portrait, was published in 1816, in nine volumes quarto. Vol. I. of another edi 
 tion was published in 1852, in royal octavo, and the Old Testament was published 
 by Collingridge, of London, in 1854, in six royal octavo volumes. (8.) Anti-Pcdo- 
 baptism. 8vo. London, 1753. (9.) The Argument from Apostolical Tradition in 
 favor of Infant-Baptism considered. The third edition of this was published in 
 1765, in octavo. (10.) Dissertation on the Antiquity of the Hebrew Language, 
 Letters, etc. 8vo. London, 1767. (11.) A Body of Doctrinal and Practical Di 
 vinity. 3 vols. 4to. London, 1769-70. This has gone through several editions, the 
 latest of which was published in 1839, in two volumes octavo. (12.) Sermons and 
 Tracts, with memoirs of the author. 2 vols. 4to. London. 1773. A new edition 
 of Gill s Sermons, in three volumes octavo, has appeared. In addition to the list 
 here given, Dr. Gi!l published many occasional sermons and tracts on Baptism, 
 most of which are in the college library. 
 
 " If any man, 1 says the Rev. Augustus Toplady, of the Episcopal Church, " can 
 be supposed to have trod the whole circle of human learning, it was Dr. Gill. 
 While true religion and sound learning have a single friend in the British empire, 
 
 the works and nr.me of Dr. Gill will be precious and revered With a 
 
 solidity of judgment and with an acuteness of discernment peculiar to few, he 
 exhausted, as it were, the very soul and substance of most arguments he un 
 dertook." 
 
 1 Mr. Keith was a brother-in-law of the writer, having married his sister Mary, 
 daughter of the Rev. Dr. Gill. 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 373 
 
 I find by his books that you stand indebted to his estate 2 9s. 9d., which 
 I doubt not you will honorably discharge. At the same time, I beg leave 
 to acquaint you that I have several sets of Dr. Gill s New Testament, five 
 volumes quarto, at 3 15s. each set, in boards. According to the propo 
 sals at first delivered out, subscribers for six sets to have a seventh, I am 
 willing to dispose of them on these terms, or, if a less number is wanted, 
 will allow twenty per cent, on delivery, payable by a merchant or trader 
 in London. There is also the Old Testament in quarto, begun by Mr. 
 Keith, but I cannot get any bookseller in London to complete it. It be 
 gins with Genesis and ends with the 132d Psalm, in six volumes. These I 
 have to dispose of at 1 16s. The subscription price was 4 10s., or 15s. 
 each volume. Also some few sets of the Doctor s tracts, collected together 
 and printed in three volumes qiiarto, with memoirs of his life, at 1 16s., 
 or 12s. each volume. Also his Cause of God and Truth, and his Exposition 
 of Solomon s Song, at 12s. each volume, all printed on the same size and 
 paper as the New Testament. As I wish to promote the sale of the Doc 
 tor s works in America, on that account I have charged them at a low 
 price, when the discount proposed is considered. A line directed for me 
 to be left at Mr. Ash s, bookseller, No. 15 Little Tower Street, will be con 
 veyed to me. I am, reverend sir, with all due respect, 
 Your humble servant, 
 
 JOHN GILL. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, July 9, 1784. 
 
 SIR: Yours of March 13 reached me the last month. I had be 
 fore heard of the death of Mr. George Keith, and sympathize with you 
 and the family in the loss. I had no knowledge of a balance due to him 
 till I received your letter, as I had many years ago given orders to a 
 friend of mine, whom I have not since seen, to pay the balance, if any 
 remained due. By this conveyance goes a letter from Mr. Backus to Mr. 
 Henry Kane, executor to Mr. Wallin, to pay you the sum of 2 9s. 9d. 
 on my account, as he had money in Mr. Wallin s hands. If you will 
 please call on him he will doubtless discharge the debt. Of this please to 
 advise me by the first opportunity. I shall be extremely sorry if the 
 edition of Dr. Gill s Bible in quarto cannot be completed, as I had sold 
 my former set, in full confidence that I should soon be able to replace 
 mine from this edition. Others here wish to purchase, but they also wish 
 to have the work complete. They especially wish for his Exposition of 
 the Prophets. Would it not be better for your family to complete the 
 32 
 
374 MANNING AND CHAP. VIII. 
 
 work, than to lose in a great measure the sale of what is already done, 
 and deprive the world of such a valuable treasure ? I have on hand some 
 of all the rest of his works you mention ; besides, at present it is ex 
 tremely difficult to make remittances to England, as the mercantile affairs 
 of the country have been so long and so greatly deranged ; to which I 
 may add the great inattention, in general, to reading books on religious 
 subjects, the natural consequence, perhaps, of such a kind of war as that 
 in which we have been involved. This, it is to be hoped, will soon alter 
 for the better, when I shall watch every opportunity of making Dr. Gill s 
 works as much known as possible. This I have hitherto ever had in view, 
 and it was no inconsiderable motive in parting with his Exposition, above 
 mentioned. I was lately desired to inquire whether those editions com 
 plete could be obtained in England, by a gentleman who wishes to pur 
 chase them. The state of religion amongst our denomination in America 
 appears rather on the gaining hand, as there arc revivals in many of the 
 churches. The college, too, although greatly injured by the war, prom 
 ises soon to regain its former state. The government of it, through the 
 smallncss of its funds and the great repairs necessary, find themselves 
 amazingly embarrassed, and consequently wish for every assistance from 
 the friends of the institution, from ever quarter. I am, sir, 
 Your friend and servant, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 LONDON, Oct. 14, 1784. 
 
 SIR : I received yours in the month of August last. Have applied 
 to Mr. Kane, Mr. Walliu s executor, who informs me that he has no 
 money in hand for Mr. Backus. Mr. Backus sent seventy copies of his 
 History of the Baptists, which never came to the late Mr. Wallin. Mr. 
 Kane intends to acquaint Mr. Backus of his disappointment. I am 
 much obliged to you, sir, for the great regard and kind intentions expressed 
 in your letter of promoting the sale of Dr. Gill s works among your 
 friends. I have now the pleasure to inform you that the quarto edition 
 of the Old Testament will be completed. It is now in the press, and will 
 be finished with all convenient speed. What was contained in my former 
 letter is now set aside, not having any of the Old Testament to sell at the 
 price therein mentioned. What I have will now be wanted to complete 
 sets. I can supply you with a set of the folio edition at ten guineas, and 
 also a set of the Prophets at two guineas. I shall be glad to hear that 
 religion is in a flourishing state among you, that the churches of Christ 
 
1784-1785. BROWN UNIVERSITY. ^75 
 
 are increasing,, and that yon, sir, may again see that seminary of learning 
 over which you have the honor to preside retrieve its former state, and be 
 attended with all the success and usefulness desirable. I am, sir, with great 
 esteem, 
 
 Your obliged, humble servant, 
 
 JOHN GILL. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, July 24, 1785. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 Yours of Oct. 14, 1784, came to hand in May, since which I have had 
 no opportunity of sending you an answer. Soon after the reception of it 
 I saw Mr. Backus, who had received the information you mention respect 
 ing his books, but informed me that he expected still to obtain them, by 
 getting information of the captain who carried them ; but should he be 
 disappointed in his expectations, he had sent a considerable number of 
 the second volume of his History, from the net proceeds of which he had 
 ordered" you paid, so that I expect, by or before the arrival of this, your 
 money will be ready for you. He engaged to write you that you might 
 know on whom to call. I am sorry for the disappointment, but hope your 
 money is safe. I am rejoiced to hear that the Doctor s Old Testament is 
 to be completed, and you may be assured that what little influence I pos 
 sess shall be employed in the sale of his works. But such at present is 
 the scarcity of money, and difficulty of making remittances to Great 
 Britain, by the high price of bills, that business is almost entirely stag 
 nated. We hope, however, for better times. I thank you for your kind 
 expressions of regard for the college with which I am connected. Great 
 indeed have been the damages which it sustained by the war, for which 
 hitherto we have received no compensation ; nor are our prospects of it in 
 future very nattering. The institution, under all its disadvantages, begins 
 to nourish, and the number of students increases as fast as might be rea 
 sonably expected. Religion too begins amongst us to hold up its head. 
 In several parts there are great revivals, some account of which I nave 
 mentioned to Mr. Rippon in a letter of this date. Should my expectations 
 of discharging that balance, through Mr. Backus, be again disappointed, 
 upon advice from you I will take measures which will prove effectual to 
 accomplish it. With sentiments of esteem, I am, sir, 
 
 Your humble servant, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
376 MANNING AND BROWN UNIVERSITY. CHAP. VIII. 
 
 LONDON, March 28, 1786. 
 REVEREND SIR : 
 
 A letter of yours, dated July 24, 1785, was not received by me until 
 about the middle of December. I should be glad when favored with 
 another letter from you, to be informed by whom it was conveyed to me, 
 as no name was mentioned to whom I might apply for the small sum you 
 expected to be paid me by some person in London. I am surprised to 
 find Mr. Backus has not heard what became of the first volume of his 
 History of the Baptists. Last summer a Mr. Thomas saw a sheet of his 
 History brought into a house where he was, wrapped around a pound of 
 cheese or butter. Mr. Thomas went immediately and purchased all the 
 paper relating to that History the cheese-monger had ; since which I am 
 informed he has received the second volume, and now makes complete 
 sets. Whether this is done for his own emolument, or whether he intends 
 it for Mr. Backus s advantage, I cannot tell. Honor and justice seem to 
 decide it in favor of Mr. Backus. But as I have no acquaintance with 
 Mr. Thomas, I can say no further about it. 
 
 I am sorry to inform you that the printer who had engaged to finish 
 the Exposition has failed and left London. There is now no hope of its 
 being completed. The six volumes of the Old Testament, reaching as far 
 as the 132d Psalm, may now be had at 1 16s., which I think was men 
 tioned to you in a former letter. If your friends choose to have any of 
 them sent, shall allow you twenty per cent, for your trouble. I remain, 
 sir, with all due respect, 
 
 Your humble servant, 
 
 JOHN GILL. 
 
 On the back of this letter Mr. Manning has written 
 " answered." Of the reply, however, no copy has come to 
 our knowledge. 
 
CHAPTER IX. 
 
 1786-1788. 
 
 Manning as a patriot statesman Appointed a member of Congress Account of 
 this event, by Hon. Asher Bobbins Rev. Dr. Perez Fobes appointed to take 
 charge of the College in Manning s absence Letter to Rev. Dr. Rippon, giv 
 ing his reasons for entering upon political life Interests of the College par 
 amount to all others Manning s description of a minister such as he might 
 wish to succeed him in the pastorate of the Baptist church Letter from 
 Nicholas Brown to Rev. Dr. Smith, respecting Manning and a proposed va 
 cancy in the pastorate of the church Letter to Rev. Dr. Evans Letter to 
 Rev. Abraham Booth Rev. Dr. William Gordon, of London, author of a his 
 tory of the American war Letter to him Congress passes an act for the relief 
 of the College Letter to Rev. Dr. Smith, giving an account of his life as a 
 member of Congress Letter to his colleague, Gen. Nathan Miller, giving an 
 account of his own embarrassed condition from the want of funds, and urg 
 ing him to take his seat as a delegate Second letter to Mr. Miller Letter to 
 Manning from Dr. Gordon Public exercises of Commencement resumed 
 Sketch of Hon. Nicholas Brown Account of the collection of portraits in 
 Rhode Island Hall Extract from a letter illustrating the difficulties against 
 which the College at this time had to contend Letter to Rev. Dr. Smith 
 Severe reflections on the General Assembly of Rhode Island Trying period 
 in Manning s life Commencement of 1787 Sketch of Hon. Samuel Eddy 
 
 Biographical sketch of Rev. Dr. Jonathan Maxcy Confederation Feder 
 alists and Anti-Federalists Manning s influence in favor of the " New Consti 
 tution " Attends the Convention in Massachusetts for the adoption of the 
 Constitution Arecdote respecting him Letter to Rev. Dr. Smith alluding 
 to his attendance upon the debates of the Convention Letter from Rev. Dr. 
 Rippon Letter to Rev. Thomas Ustick Letter to Rev. Dr. Smith Bio 
 graphical sketch of Rev. Dr. Asa Messer Commencement of 1788 Sketch 
 of Hon. James Burrill Letter from Rev. Morgan Edwards Letter from 
 Rev. Dr. Evans Letter to Rev. Dr. Smith Early schools of Providence 
 
 Manning s efforts in behalf of popular education. 
 
 DR. MANNING is now to be exhibited in a new charac 
 ter and in new relations. Hitherto, says Prof. Goddard, 
 we have seen him ministering at the altar, or dispensing 
 32* 
 
378 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 the oracles of wisdom amid the shades of the academy. 
 We are now to note his career as a patriot statesman. 
 
 The articles of confederation adopted by the United 
 States in 1781, proved, as is well known, utterly inade 
 quate to the purposes of government. Commercial em 
 barrassments multiplied ; the public credit was impaired ; 
 and the great interests of the nation, nay even the whole 
 political fabric, was threatened with destruction. At this 
 crisis of depression and alarm, Dr. Manning was, by a 
 unanimous resolution of the General Assembly, appointed, 
 at its March session in 1786, to represent Rhode Island 
 in the Congress of the Confederation. The story of this 
 interesting event in his life is thus told by the Hon. Asher 
 Bobbins, in a letter to Prof. Goddard, which we find in 
 his memoir of Manning. 
 
 " Though he had other merits and ample for this appointment of del 
 egate, I have no doubt the dignity and grace for which he was so remark 
 able smoothed the way to it. It took place in this wise : There was a 
 vacancy in the delegation, and the General Assembly, who were to fill it, 
 were sitting in Providence. No one in particular had been proposed or 
 talked of. One afternoon Dr. Manning went to the State House, to look 
 in upon the Assembly and sec what was doing. His motive was curi 
 osity merely. On bis appearance there, he was introduced on the floor, 
 and accommodated with a seat. Shortly after, Commodore Hopkins, 
 who was then a member, rose and nominated President Manning as a 
 delegate to Congress, and thereupon he was appointed, and, according 
 to my recollection, unanimously. I recollect to have heard Commodore 
 Hopkins say (it was at the house of his brother, Governor Hopkins, where 
 I shortly after met with him ) that the idea never entered his head till he 
 saw the President enter and take his seat on the floor of the Assembly ; 
 and that the thought immediately struck him that he would make a very 
 fit member for that august body, the Continental Congress. 
 
 " Congress under the old confederation sat, as you know, in conclave ; 
 no report of their debates was published. How far Mr. Manning mingled 
 in them, therefore, I cannot say. I recollect his speaking of one in 
 
1786-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 379 
 
 which he participated (the subject I have forgotten), on account of a per 
 sonal controversy to which it gave rise between him and a fiery young 
 man, a delegate from Georgia, by the name, as I think, of Houston. 
 This young man in his speech had reflected upon New England and her 
 people. Mr. Manning repelled the attack, and, by way of offset, drew a 
 picture of Georgia and her people. This so nettled the young man that 
 in his passion he threatened personal violence. The next day he appeared 
 in Congress with a sword by his side. This produced, at once, a sensa 
 tion in that body, the symptoms of which were so alarming that he 
 thought proper to withdraw, take off his sword, and send it home by his 
 servant. In the course of the day he took an opportunity to meet with 
 Mr. Manning, and to make him an apology. 
 
 " He must have given himself much to business then, as he seemed to 
 be master of all the important questions which had been debated, and 
 could give the arguments, pro and con, offered by the different speakers. 
 
 " The famous Dr. Johnson of Connecticut was a member at the same 
 time, with whom Mr. Manning became intimate, and of whom he always 
 spoke with admiration. The Doctor once paid him the compliment of 
 holding the pen of a ready writer, which Mr. Manning very highly val 
 ued as coming from such a man. It was upon an occasion of drawing 
 up a report for a committee, of which both were members, and which re 
 port the Doctor professed to be much pleased with." 
 
 Dr. Manning at first pleaded his connection with the 
 college as a sufficient reason for declining his appoint 
 ment ; but many of the corporation were gentlemen of 
 high political standing, who, regarding the interests of 
 the institution as involved in the character and reputation 
 of the State and the course of public measures, advised 
 him to take his seat, and designate a suitable person to 
 preside in his absence. Accordingly, at a special meeting 
 of the Trustees and Fellows held at his house, March 13, 
 his request for absence was granted, and the Rev. Perez 
 Fobes, LL.D., pastor of the Congregational church and 
 society in Raynham, Mass., was appointed to take charge 
 of the institution from June 1 to Sept. 1, as Vice Pres- 
 
380 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 ident. Mr. Fobes was a graduate of Harvard College, in 
 the class of 17 G2. He accepted the appointment, and 
 discharged the duties of the place with fidelity and good 
 success. Shortly afterwards, it may be added, he was ap 
 pointed Professor of Natural Philosophy, which position 
 he occupied twelve years, coming in from Raynham once 
 or twice a week, during portions of the year, to deliver 
 lectures. In 1795 he was elected one of the Fellows of 
 the college. 
 
 The following letter to his friend the Rev. Dr. Rippon, 
 gives the reasons more especially which induced Dr. 
 Manning to accept this appointment, and also his views 
 in regard to entering the political arena. The interests 
 of the college, it will be observed, in this as in all other 
 matters, were uppermost in his mind. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, April 7, 1786. 
 MY DEAR FRIEND : 
 
 Yours of June 22, 1785, came to hand too late to comply with your re 
 quest relative to Mr. Dunscombe, as it did not reach me till November. 
 He is on my list for the honors of the college next Commencement. 
 
 Of Mr. Booth s merit I am fully conscious ; but what apology shall I 
 make to him for not informing him that the degree of Master in the Arts 
 was conferred on him before the late war, and that he stands on our 
 printed catalogue graduated in 1774 ? Some difficulties respecting making 
 out diplomas for him and for a number of gentlemen in England delayed 
 it till the late confusion commenced, which totally deranged the affairs of 
 the college, and effaced the memory of it till of late, especially as our secre 
 tary had omitted entering the graduations on the records. This but lately 
 came to my knowledge. The multiplicity of cares which divide my at 
 tention and engross all my time, together with the above, is the best ex 
 cuse I can make. By Dr. Gordon I now send him this feather, as a token 
 of our respect for his great merit. This, with a letter to him, and letters 
 and diplomas to several other gentlemen graduated before the war, I take 
 the liberty to enclose to you, and beg of you to forward them the first good 
 conveyance. During the late war we have been so tremblingly alive, that 
 
1786-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 381 
 
 we have lately started up as from a dream. Of this at least they may be 
 assured, that they were not treated designedly with neglect. 
 
 Pray, don t be alarmed should you hear that I am in Congress. The 
 motive of my accepting this most unexpected, unsolicited, but unanimous 
 appointment of the State to that office, was the recovery of a considerable 
 sum due to the college, for the use taken of the edifice, and the damage 
 done to it by the public in the late war. It was thought by those most 
 acquainted with the state of our application to that honorable body, that 
 my presence would facilitate that grant ; more especially as none of the 
 persons likely to be elected would greatly interest themselves in that 
 business. My appointment is only from our late session till next No 
 vember, when I mean to relinquish the office, as in general I always con 
 sidered politics out of my province. Accordingly I have interdicted my 
 name being mentioned in the next nominating. Both the college and the 
 congregation are, I hope, well provided for during my absence. The 
 latter are now looking out for a minister. I ever declined the pastoral 
 care of the church as quite incompatible with my engagements to the col 
 lege, though I have preached, administered ordinances, visited the sick, 
 attended funerals, etc., for the last fifteen years, without assistance. Con 
 vinced that I cannot hold that place with advantage to them and hold the 
 Presidency of the college, I have strongly recommended to them to obtain 
 if possible a minister, and they are now looking out for one. But there 
 is little probability of their finding the man soon on this continent. A man 
 of letters, politeness, strict piety and orthodoxy, of popular talents, pos 
 sessed of a good share of human prudence, and no bigot, in a word, a 
 truly Christian orator is the man they want. Should any of our English 
 brethren of this description incline to visit America, I wish him to take 
 Providence in his way. And should he like the people, and the people 
 him, I believe our congregation would afford him an honorable support, 
 as it is large and composed of some of the most wealthy men and first 
 characters in the State. Pray, have you no Mr. Eippons, Booths, Evanses, 
 etc., to spare from your side of the water ? I should for one be very happy 
 to see them on our American shores. 
 
 The number of students in college is about fifty, and our prospects 
 would be flattering were it not for the scarcity *of money in this country, 
 which embarrasses all kinds of business. A fund to educate pious youth 
 of our denomination is what I have long wished for, but have not yet 
 been able to accomplish. Several hopeful youth for want of this are de 
 nied an education, who promised fair to have been ornaments to the min- 
 
382 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 istiy. The state of religion, except in Boston, Newport, and in Vermont, 
 is not very flourishing. With sentiments of esteem, I am, sir, 
 Your assured friend and humble servant, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 P. S. Some drops of mercy have, I trust, fallen upon Providence. 
 Our common friend Dr. Drowne requested me to mention to you that the 
 gentlemen who appraised the loss he sustained by the bad package of 
 the medicines he received from Mr. Pine, are noted apothecaries, and men 
 to be trusted. Such, indeed, I esteem them ; and have every reason to 
 think the Doctor took the utmost pains to render the loss as small as pos 
 sible. In justice I think myself bound to say this. 
 
 The letter herewith enclosed from Mr. Nathaniel Dummer is from one 
 of my particular friends. His wife is a member of our church, and truly 
 an excellent woman. He applied to me to get the information through 
 some of my friends in England. He feared to intrust it to a person in 
 whom I could not place the highest confidence, as he feared he might not 
 get the best information. If it would be compatible with your business to 
 procure the information requested, soon, and transmit it to me directed to 
 New York, and inform me what the expense is, I will engage to see you 
 paid the expense and trouble which it may cost you, over and above 
 thanking you for your kindness. As the information of Gov. Dummer 
 is thought worthy to be relied on, since he came to America after he was 
 grown up, it is thought highly probable that my friend is the next heir to the 
 estate. Should the information coincide with his wishes, he means imme 
 diately to embark for England to attend to the business. Pray, let me hear 
 by every good opportunity of your welfare. With every wish which the 
 sincerest friendship can dictate for your temporal and eternal felicity, I 
 subscribe myself, 
 
 Your very unworthy fellow-servant in the gospel of Christ, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 " A man of letters, politeness, strict piety and orthodoxy, 
 of popular talents, possessed of a good share of human 
 prudence, and no bigot ; in a word, a truly Christian ora 
 tor," such is Dr. Manning s brief and expressive de 
 scription of a minister to succeed in the pastorate of the 
 Baptist church at Providence. How unconsciously has he 
 
1786-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 383 
 
 here presented his own character as a preacher and pas 
 tor! 
 
 In reference to Manning s appointment to Congress and 
 the consequent vacancy in the church, Mr. Nicholas Brown 
 thus writes to the Rev. Hezekiah Smith, under date of 
 April 2, 1786: 
 
 "You will perhaps think it strange to hear of Mr. Manning s going to 
 Congress, but I reserve giving a full account of this matter, hoping this 
 may have some influence in inducing you to come at the time proposed, 
 when you will hear all. I will only say here, that as the college increases, 
 Mr. Manning urges, and with reason, that he cannot possibly attend to 
 the duties of both President and pastor, and that the church has suffered 
 for the want of time on his part to visit, etc. He has therefore recom 
 mended to the church and society to look up a suitable person as his suc 
 cessor, and as the college funds arc not of themselves, in their present 
 state, sufficient for his support, he goes to Congress to get what is due for 
 rents, damages, etc., during the war The committee before men 
 tioned are not only to obtain supplies in his absence, but to look up a 
 suitable person to take charge of the church as a pastor. You know he 
 must be a man of learning, and prudently popular. The society will en 
 gage such an one a genteel living, etc. Your advice, my dear friend, if 
 nothing more, is absolutely necessary at this juncture. No one, let me 
 add, will be more acceptable, on all accounts, than yourself, as a candidate 
 for this important place." 
 
 The following letter to the Rev. Dr. Evans is very sim 
 ilar to the one to Dr. Rippon, and bears the same date. 
 We give it, however, as a part of Manning s correspond 
 ence, omitting a portion to avoid needless repetition. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, April 7, 1786. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 Some time in November last I received your most acceptable favor of 
 Sept. 5, forwarded by Mr. Waldo. I am happy to hear that your Ed 
 ucation Society, at their meeting in August last, empowered you to send 
 such valuable books as they have to dispose of to our college. As you 
 intended sending them by an early opportunity, and as I have heard noth 
 ing on the subject since, I fear they may have fallen into bad hands, or 
 
384 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 have been lost at sea. This induces me to write now that you may know 
 they have not arrived. 
 
 If spared to see another annual meeting of the corporation, at which only 
 we have ever conferred degrees, we shall remember your worthy colleague, 
 the Rev. James Newton, and confer on him the degree of Master in the 
 Arts. Your recommendation of any gentleman for the honors of the col 
 lege will always meet with particular attention. 
 
 The college consists of upwards of fifty members, and would flourish 
 greatly were it not for the scarcity of money in this country, which ex 
 ceeds description. This scarcity peculiarly affects us. The appropriation 
 of the edifice to public uses during the war was productive of great dam 
 age to it, for reparation of which, as well as for the rents, the corporation 
 sent me last year to Congress, with the state of our accounts and claims 
 and sufficient vouchers. We obtained a hearing before a committee ap 
 pointed to report on the subject of the petition, and obtained a favorable 
 report, but lost it before Congress when the report was acted upon. Our 
 late Professor Howell was then a member, and had great influence ; but 
 as he had effectually opposed some continental measures, he thinks the 
 question was lost by that means, together with the small number of the 
 states on the floor. By the articles of the confederation, he is not again 
 eligible for three years ; nor could we find any man, probably, to be 
 chosen, who would deeply interest himself for the college. This induced 
 me, at his earnest importunity, together with his giving the greatest en 
 couragement that a grant might be obtained, to accept the unanimous 
 appointment of our Legislature, at- their late session, as their first delegate 
 in Congress till next November, an appointment to me most unex 
 pected, as I had considered politics out of my province, and on that ac 
 count had declined a former nomination to that office. The interests of 
 the college lay near my heart, and the necessities of it call aloud for the 
 exertions of all its friends. I thought proper to give you these hints, lest 
 upon hearing of my being in Congress you might think I meant to as 
 sume the political character ; than which, in general, nothing is more 
 remote from my intentions, notwithstanding the great importunity of 
 many of the Legislature for me to continue in the office. I hope the col 
 lege and congregation will be well provided for during my absence, and 
 I do not doubt it from the arrangements made. 
 
 The state of religion in this country at present is low ; yet our churches 
 in Boston and Newport the last winter and this spring are mercifully vis- 
 
1786-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 385 
 
 ited, and some drops of mercy have, I trust, fallen upon Providence. 
 With every wish for your happiness, I remain, dear sir, 
 Yours, etc., 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 TO THE BEY. ABRAHAM BOOTH. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND, April 7, 1786. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 Your most acceptable favor of the 25th of March, 1785, never reached 
 me until November last. I heartily thank you for your translation of 
 Dr. Abadie. I esteem it a masterly performance, and wish it to have a 
 general spread through this country, which, in imitation of the old coun 
 try, is rejecting the ancient gospel. Dr. Chauncey s book in favor of 
 universal salvation, printed in London, has made many proselytes amongst 
 the New England Congregationalists. Mere nominal Christian ministers 
 now begin to show on whose side they are. I am convinced, however, 
 that these trying times are necessary, and will eventually subserve the 
 interests of the Redeemer. False friends are more dangerous to religion 
 than avowed enemies. 
 
 After a cursory reading of your " Pedobaptism Examined " last spring, 
 I loaned it to my Brother Gano at New York, who at that time had great 
 need of it, and I have never been able to get it since. I read it with great 
 pleasure, and shall be happy to see a second edition, without any correc 
 tions except such as the judicious author may see fit to make. It is out 
 of my power to comply with your request to criticize it. Some hints 
 when at New York led me to suspect on whom you animadverted in the 
 note you mention. It grieves me that such fine abilities should be pros 
 tituted in the support of error. Hope he may return to a better way of 
 thinking. You need not fear any discoveries to your disadvantage. 
 
 I thank you for your attention to my friend Dr. Drowne, Having 
 gained his object in France, he returned last summer, and is now well, 
 and retains a high sense of the favors received in your family. 
 
 I hope the amiable and worthy Dr. Stennett is recovered, and will yet 
 be spared to do much service to the cause of the Redeemer, in addition to 
 the important service he has already rendered. I rejoice to hear that his 
 son is such a worthy character. I wish he may fill his honored father s 
 place, when he, having served his generation according to the will of 
 God, shall sleep with his fathers. 
 33 
 
38G MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 It is pleasing to hear that the cause of God gains ground in England, 
 and especially in our denomination. Sorry am I to hear of the dissolu 
 tion of two Baptist churches in London. Dr. Gibbons was an intimate 
 acquaintance of rity old President Davies, and through that channel I be 
 came acquainted with his character. I esteemed him a worthy, good man. 
 Some more of Mr. Backus s first volume, he tells me, are found in London. 
 
 Your letter, accompanying a copy of Dr. Abadie, I forwarded immedi 
 ately to Mr. Stillman, who received it. 
 
 Our Baptist churches in Boston and Newport have through the winter, 
 and still have, a gracious visit. Considerable additions have been made to 
 them, and the good work continues. I have also good tidings of the 
 same kind from Virginia. Some scattering drops I hope have fallen 
 upon Providence, but the number of late conversions is but small. 
 
 What apology shall I make for not advising you that the college con 
 ferred on you the degree of Master in the Arts in 1774 1 Directly after 
 Commencement I was called away to the Southern States, and on my re 
 turn the Lord was pleased to pour out his Spirit on the people of my 
 charge in a glorious manner, which engaged both my time and my atten 
 tion till that fatal 19th of April following, when hostilities commenced at 
 Lexington, which cut off all intercourse between the two countries, and 
 so deranged the affairs of the college that it is but lately that I recollected 
 that diplomas had never been sent to you and several other gentlemen 
 graduated upon the recommendation of Mr. Riley, of Northampton. 
 If these excuses, with more somewhat similar, are not sufficient, and I 
 seem really to doubt myself, I must take the blame of neglect on myself, 
 and make the best apology I can by complying with my duty at this late 
 hour. As a testimony of our respect for your merit, be pleased to accept 
 the diploma which accompanies this ; and if you can, excuse the omission 
 of giving you timely advice. To one not a resident in America it is hard 
 to conceive into what confusion the war threw us, from which it will not 
 be easy to recover soon. The college, however, is in a more prosperous 
 state than ever, and promises fair to hold a rank amongst literary institu 
 tions in this new world ; but the scarcity of cash greatly embarrasses the 
 college at present, as it is extremely difficult for people of property to 
 raise money to educate their children. 
 
 I shall be glad to have a letter from Mr. Booth by every opportunity. 
 
 With every wish for your temporal and eternal felicity which the sin- 
 cerest friendship can dictate, I remain, dear sir, 
 
 Yours, in Christ, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
1780-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 387 
 
 The following letter is addressed to the Rev. Dr. Wil 
 liam Gordon, who, it will be remembered, came from Eng 
 land in 1770, with a letter of introduction to Manning 
 from the Rev. Dr. Stennett (page 123). He settled in 
 Massachusetts, and was ordained pastor of a Congrega 
 tional church in Jamaica Plain, Roxbury, on the 6th of 
 July, 1772. When the Revolution commenced, he took a 
 very active part against his native country, and was ap 
 pointed chaplain to the Provincial Congress. He preached 
 .1 Thanksgiving discourse, Dec. 15, 1774, which is pub 
 lished in Thornton s "Pulpit of the American Revolu 
 tion." In 1786 he returned to England, and two years 
 afterwards published, in four octavo volumes, " The His 
 tory of the Rise, Progress, and Establishment of the In 
 dependence of the United States of America," a candid 
 and impartial work, says Alibone, of which there have 
 been several editions. He died at Ipswich, Oct. 19, 1807, 
 aged seventy-seven. Manning it seems cultivated an inti 
 macy with him. In this letter he speaks of a donation of 
 books which Gordon made to the college library. Among 
 them we notice Caryl s Exposition, with Practical Obser 
 vations upon the book of Job, a work in two huge folios, 
 published in London, in 1676, of which Charles Lamb 
 playfully says, " What any man can write, surely I may 
 read." 
 
 PROVIDENCE, April 13, 1786. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 Yours of the 21st and 27th ult. were long in coming to hand, and the 
 reasons of my delaying to answer them were that I mistook one week in 
 the time set for your sailing, and my having a number of letters to write 
 and several diplomas to get ready to send to some gentlemen in England. 
 All these I have enclosed to Rev. John Rippon, successor to Dr. Gill, 
 who will take care to forward them as directed. I must beg the favor of 
 you to see Mr. Rippon, and deliver them with your own hand. 
 
MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 It was my intention to have seen you myself and brought Mrs. Man 
 ning down, who was exceedingly desirous of it, that we might have had 
 the opportunity of a parting kiss ; but, unfortunately, my horse is dis 
 ordered, and unable to perform the journey. Though denied the pleas 
 ure of one more interview with you here, I trust the grace and mercy of 
 God will favor us with one infinitely more agreeable in a better world. 
 You have my unworthy prayers for your own and your family s safety 
 while on the ocean, and my sincere desires for your and their prosperity 
 in your native country, from whence I shall ever rejoice to receive letters 
 from, you and return the favor. I have been informed that you have been 
 greatly abused in the Boston newspapers. You know that is a talent our 
 neighbors there possess. They arc ingenious to provoke. I am sorry 
 your success in subscriptions is small here ; but such is the scarcity of 
 money that many who wished to be possessors, and amongst the rest 
 your humble servant, were necessitated to forego it. But I hope to see 
 better times. Shall be proud to place Dr. Gordon s History of the Amer 
 ican War in the college library at Providence, as a token of his remem 
 brance and friendship for that institution. 
 
 Don t imagine that I mean to exchange the sacred for the political 
 character, because until the next November I have accepted an appoint 
 ment of the State to a seat in Congress. It is purely with a view to 
 obtain, if possible, a grant to compensate the rents and damages for the 
 use of the edifice by the public during the Avar. 1 However strongly so 
 licited, I have not the least idea of suffering my name to be used in a 
 subsequent election. More than a thousand pounds is our just due from 
 
 1 Dr. Manning did not succeed in his endeavors. Fourteen years afterwards 
 (April 16, 1800), through the exertions mainly of Mr. John Brown, Congress 
 passed an act entitled, " An Act for the Relief of the Corporation of Rhode 
 Island College." 
 
 " Be it enacted, etc., That the accounting officers of the treasury be, and they 
 are hereby authorized and directed to liquidate and settle the claims of the cor 
 poration of Rhode Island College, for compensation for the use and occupation 
 of the edifice of said college, and for injuries done to the same, from the tenth 
 day of December, one thousand seven hundred and seventy-six, to the twenti 
 eth day of April, one thousand seven hundred and eighty, by the troops of the 
 United States; and that the sum which may be found due to the said corporation 
 for damages done to and occupation of the said edifice, as aforesaid, be paid 
 them out of any moneys in the treasury not otherwise appropriated." 
 
 How much compensation the college finally received, we are unable at present 
 to determine. Dr. Benedict, in his History, states it to have been two thousand 
 dollars. 
 
1786-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 the public. With our small funds this is too much to lose. I wish with 
 all my heart you may succeed to your wishes in returning to your native 
 country. Mrs. Manning joins in her best regards to you and Mrs. Gor 
 don. We wish you every felicity which the sincerest friendship can dic 
 tate, both in time and eternity. 
 
 I rest, yours, etc., in gospel bonds, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 p. g. By Mr. Brown, the wagoner, we received the box of books in 
 good order, and I beg leave in the name and in behalf of the corporation 
 to present you the hearty thanks of the college for the donation. They 
 are delivered to the librarian, and ordered to be set up and your name to 
 be enrolled amongst the benefactors of Rhode Island College. 
 
 JAMES MANNING, President. 
 
 TO THE EEV. DR. SMITH. 
 
 NEW YORK, 17th May, 1786. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 Yours of the 27th ult. came safe to hand, for which I thank you, and 
 should have answered it before* had not my hands been full. Mrs. Man 
 ning informed me of the application to you to be my successor in the 
 meeting at Providence. I should be happy in your society, and should 
 Providence order your lot there, I shall while there contribute my best 
 endeavors to render your life happy, and useful to the people ; but I think 
 it best to interfere as little as may be with their determinations in settling 
 a minister, as I conceive it might lessen my influence in his favor, after 
 his settlement, should they have it in their power to say, when his sup 
 port might be felt, that I was any means of it. Not that I hereby mean 
 to excuse myself from doing my personal duty in that case, which I hope 
 would be a pleasure. Should you accept of their invitation, your piety, 
 I trust, would more than compensate the defect of politeness, a high 
 degree of which I cannot deem primarily essential in a gospel preacher, 
 any more than distinguished rusticity. Habits of easiness in access, and 
 gentle, unaffected manners, are most pleasing in that character. 
 
 I hope you may have the pleasure to find that your labors at Provi 
 dence are followed with a blessing. The Lord is doing wonders in this 
 city and its vicinity, but especially in the Jerseys, at the Plains, Moun 
 tains, Piscataway, and Cranberry. I attend the June meeting. Mr. 
 Runyan, on Saturday, baptized twelve ; the Sabbatarian minister three. 
 33* 
 
390 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 Great power appeared to attend the preaching. Multitudes appeared 
 deeply affected, aud during the meeting several professed to be brought 
 into gospel liberty. Such a meeting I believe was never seen at Piscata- 
 way before. I am told the Thursday following twelve were baptized at 
 Quibbletown, and Lord s Day thirteen at the Plains. There appears a 
 considerable turn in the minds of the people throughout that quarter. Mr. 
 Wilson flames out and is remarkably blessed, and goes on preaching, ex 
 horting, and baptizing from place to place with surprising success. The 
 Lord indeed is doing great things in the land. 
 
 Of your mother I can give no information, but presume she is living, 
 otherwise Mr. Guthrie or your brother Jeremiah would have told me of 
 her death. My situation here is indeed very awkward, without a col 
 league, without money, and in doubt what to resolve on. Our public 
 affairs wear a cloudy aspect. I hope it is that the interposition of Heaven 
 may be seen in extricating us from difficulty. His former unmerited 
 favor to this guilty land encourages me to hope for it though it should 
 almost be against hope. 
 
 The savages have begun their barbarous depredations on our western 
 frontiers, but probably not without provocation from some of that lawless 
 banditti which forms the van of those settlements. It is expected that, on 
 investigation, this will be found true. Many of the innocent must doubt 
 less be involved in ruin in consequence of it. The wretched, deranged 
 finances of the Federal Government, will allow us, if disposed, to afford 
 these people but feeble aid. 
 
 I am treated with respect by Congress and the heads of departments. 
 The present Congress possess great integrity, and a good share of abili 
 ties ; but for want of more States on the floor the public and important 
 business is from day to day neglected. We are, h6wever, in daily ex 
 pectation of a fuller delegation. If personal matters could be so adjusted 
 that I were not disquieted, I should be very happy in my situation here ; 
 for I commonly preach once or twice on Lord s Days, either in town, on 
 Long or Staten Island, or in the Jerseys. 
 
 Please to present my best respects to Mrs. Smith and friends, and be 
 lieve me to be 
 
 Your old, unvarying friend, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 Dr. Manning s colleague was Brig.-Gen. Nathan Mil 
 ler, of Warren. To him he thus writes, giving a graphic 
 
1786-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 391 
 
 description of bis own embarrassed condition for want of 
 funds, and urging him in the present crisis of affairs to 
 take his seat as a delegate, and by his presence and influ 
 ence aid in preventing an impending dissolution of the 
 Federal Government. That Manning fully comprehended 
 the great questions which agitated this Congress of 1786, 
 and which finally led to a more perfect union of the States, 
 is evident from his correspondence, and from the great 
 interest which he felt and the efforts which he made to 
 secure the adoption of the Constitution of the United 
 
 States. 
 
 NEW YORK, 7th of June, 1786. 
 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 I think if for a moment you would figure to yourself my situation, alone 
 here for more than a month, reduced to the very last guinea and a trifle 
 of change (which is the case) ; my lodging, washing, barber s, hatter s, tai 
 lor s bills, etc., not paid ; without the favor of a single line from you ad 
 vising me whether you mean to come or not, or sending forward the one 
 hundred dollars on hand, which you proposed doing from the election 
 if you was not likely to follow me soon, I say if you would but realize 
 my situation, you could not but pity me from your heart. I wrote you 
 long since. I begged an answer from you, one way or another, that I 
 might know what measures to take. But as I am now situated, I can 
 neither stay nor go, except to the new City Hall, if my creditors exact it ; 
 and strangers have no more compassion on me than the State that ap 
 pointed me. I must interest you to forward that sum of one hundred 
 dollars, if no more can be had, by the first opportunity, with a line advis 
 ing me of your real intentions. Matters highly interesting to this Confed 
 eracy, and indeed I think the question whether the Federal Government 
 shall long exist, are now before Congress, and there are not States suffi 
 cient to transact the necessary business, as we now have barely nine States 
 on the floor. Our affairs are come very much to a point, and if the States 
 continue to neglect keeping up their delegations in Congress, the Federal 
 Government must ipse facto dissolve. I have written the Governor on 
 these subjects, and desired his answer, whether we should keep up our 
 delegation or not. I shall wait till a reasonable time for an answer from 
 you, and quit if I do not receive it. Send me by the post or packets. 
 
392 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 Frank your letters by the post. I shall impatiently wait the event, and 
 with sentiments of esteem, I have the honor to be, sir, 
 
 Your humble servant, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 TO THE SAME. 
 
 NEW YORK, 12th of June, 1786. 
 
 SIR : Yours of 27th ult. came to hand two days ago. Am mortified 
 exceedingly that you have not come forward, nor sent on the money on 
 hand ; for I am reduced to but a few shillings, and my bills are not paid. 
 My situation without a colleague, without money, and without any in 
 structions or favorable prospects from government is painful. Rhode Isl 
 and has not many more strides to make to complete her disgrace, and ruin 
 too ; but that is not all. She is likely to hold a distinguished rank amongst 
 the contributors to the ruin of the Federal Government. Never probably 
 was a full delegation of the States more necessary than now, for you may 
 rest assured that in the opinion of every member of Congress, and in the 
 Several departments, things are come to a crisis with the Federal Govern 
 ment. You say you think the present House do not want a Congress ; 
 they may, it is more than probable, very soon see the accomplishment of 
 their wishes ; for without a speedy reform in the policy of the States, the 
 Federal Government must be no more. The flagrant violations of the pub 
 lic faith, solemnly plighted, in the late emissions of paper money, on the 
 conditions on which it is emitted, is here considered as the completion of 
 our ruin as a nation : but I wrote you before on this subject ; it is too pain 
 ful to repeat. Pray send me on the money on hand, or come and bring it 
 yourself, without loss of time ; at least, write me by every vessel. With 
 sentiments of esteem, I have the honor to be, sir, 
 
 Your humble servant, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 The following letter from the Rev. Dr. Gordon will be 
 found especially interesting, in view of the author s posi 
 tion as a defender of America on English soil : 
 
 STOKE NEWINGTON, ENGLAND, Sept. 13, 1786. 
 MY DEAR SIR : 
 
 I have appropriated a few of my busy moments to your friendship, on 
 which I set a high value. You will have heard of our safe arrival. The 
 
1786-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 393 
 
 passage was, blessed be God, good upon the whole, and though longer by 
 a week or two than we could have wished, yet not lengthy. We were 
 in London within six; weeks, lacking two days, after leaving Boston, and 
 had a slight sea-sickness only the first day. Many of our friends and 
 acquaintance, and some of our relations, had been removed; but we 
 had the pleasure of finding as many still living as we could reasonably 
 expect. I took care to deliver the parcel for Mr. Kippon safely, of 
 which you will probably have received an account before this ai rives. It 
 would have been great pleasure to us to have seen you and Mrs. Man 
 ning before our departure ; but that having been prevented, I trust with 
 you that the grace and mercy of God will favor us with an interview 
 infinitely more agreeable in a better world. I am exceedingly busy 
 upon my History, and when I have finished it shall not be unmindful 
 of your college library. The abuse in the public papers hindered the 
 subscriptions very much. I hope, however, they will be made up in 
 Britain. The beginning of next month I mean to have the proposals 
 circulating ; but am apprehensive that the book will not go to the press 
 so early as I intended. Every one tells me that I must be extremely cau 
 tions how I word myself, in speaking of individuals in Britain, lest I 
 should be prosecuted for libelling ; and prudence will require my advising 
 with some gentleman learned in the law, that I may avoid falling into the 
 clutches of the malevolent. You would wonder at the coolness with 
 which I have been treated by several, even of my brethren in the ministry, 
 for the part I took while in America ; this, however, has not made me re 
 pent of engaging on the side of liberty. The Rev. Mr. Martin, of your 
 persuasion, at the Westminster end of the town, was a most bitter enemy 
 to the Americans, as I have heard ; and one and another of the Presbyte 
 rians and Congregationalists were not less so, and would have rejoiced to 
 have had the promoters and encouragers of the Revolution, whether in 
 civil or sacred orders, hanged as rebels. But Heaven has disappointed 
 and mortified them. They however spit out their venom at times. 
 
 We are at present with Mrs. Gordon s brother, who is exceedingly 
 friendly. Where we shall settle is wholly uncertain ; but a kind Provi 
 dence, I hope, will direct in much mercy. -Should like to be in the neigh 
 borhood of London, for the benefit of corresponding with my American 
 friends, and doing them any particular service. Such a situation would 
 place me also in the midst of my relations and British acquaintance. 
 These matters, however, must all be submitted to infinite wisdom ; and 
 I desire not to be at my own disposal and direction. 
 
304 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 "We have been favored with good health since our arrival. I am con 
 cerned that your State should be so overseen as to make paper money, 
 etc. Such policy will never make you prosper, and instead of preserving 
 will drive away property and plenty from you. The Americans must 
 make all kinds of property secure, or confusion will follow. I am most 
 hearty in wishing them virtuous and honorable, and am therefore pained 
 when anything takes place that is prejudicial to their public character. 
 Mrs. Gordon joins in best regards to self and Mrs. Manning. Remem 
 ber me to Mr. Nicholas Brown, Mr. Benson, and other friends. Let me 
 hear from you by the first opportunity. Direct to Mr. Field s, Apothe 
 cary, Newgate Street. I remain, 
 
 Your sincere and affectionate friend, 
 
 WILLIAM GORDON. 
 
 This year the public exercises of Commencement were 
 resumed. Fifteen young men took their Bachelor s de 
 gree, and among them Nicholas Brown, Jr., afterwards the 
 distinguished benefactor of the college. He was at this 
 time but seventeen years of age, having entered the Fresh 
 man Class in 1782, when the college again began to live. 
 Mr. Brown commenced his benefactions in February, 1792, 
 by presenting to the Trustees and Fellows of the college 
 the sum of five hundred dollars, to be expended in the 
 purchase of law books for the library. This he did, in the 
 language of the letter announcing the donation, " under a 
 deep impression of the generous intentions of my honored 
 father, deceased, towards the college in this town, as well 
 as from my own personal feelings towards the institution, 
 in which I received my education, and from a desire to 
 promote literature in general, and in particular the knowl 
 edge of the laws of our country, under the influence 
 whereof not only our property but our lives and dearest 
 privileges are protected." In 1804 he presented to the 
 corporation the sum of five thousand dollars, as a founda 
 tion for a professorship of oratory and belles-lettres. It 
 
1786-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 395 
 
 was on this occasion, in consideration of this donation, and 
 of others that had been received from him and his kindred, 
 that the name of the institution was changed, in accord 
 ance with a provision in its charter, from Rhode Island 
 College to Brown University. In 1822 he erected at his 
 own expense the second college building, which he pre 
 sented to the corporation, in a letter bearing date Jan. 13, 
 1823. At his suggestion it was named "Hope College," 
 in honor of his only surviving sister, Mrs. Hope Ives. In 
 1835 he erected the third building, which he also pre 
 sented to the corporation, with a request that it might be 
 named " Manning Hall," in honor of the memory of his 
 own distinguished instructor and revered friend, President 
 Manning. Mr. Brown died Sept. 27, 1841, at the age of 
 seventy-two. A discourse commemorative of his charac 
 ter and life was delivered by President Wayland, in the 
 University chapel, which discourse was afterwards pub 
 lished. The entire sum of his recorded benefactions and 
 bequests to the University amounts to one hundred and 
 sixty thousand dollars, assigning to the donations of land 
 and buildings the valuation which was put upon them at 
 the time they were made. 
 
 " Many years," says Prof. Gammell, " have now elapsed 
 since he descended to the tomb, but the monuments of 
 his wise and pious benefactions are all around us, in the 
 University with which his name is associated ; in the But 
 ler Hospital for the Insane, and the Providence Athena3iim, 
 to whose founding he so largely contributed ; and in the 
 churches, and colleges, and institutions of philanthropy 
 over the whole land, to which he so often lent his liberal 
 and most timely aid. So long as learning and religion 
 shall have a place in the affections of men, these enduring 
 
396 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 memorials will proclaim his character, and speak his 
 eulogy. Hi sanctissimi testes, hi maximi laudatores." 
 
 A few years before his death, at the annual meeting of 
 the corporation in 1835, Mr. Brown was formally requested 
 to sit for his likeness, which was taken, at full length, by 
 Harding, one of the most celebrated American artists. It 
 now graces the collection 1 of portraits in Rhode Island 
 
 1 This collection, to which we have frequently alluded, now comprises twenty- 
 six portraits, many of them painted from life. The following list of them may 
 be of interest, perhaps, to some of our readers : 
 
 COLLEGE OFFICERS, GRADUATES, ETC. 
 
 1. JAMES MANNING. Two portraits, one of which is an original, painted by 
 
 Alexander, of Newport, in the year 1770. 
 
 2. WILLIAM ROGERS, the first student of the college. Painted by his daughter, 
 
 E. J. Rogers, from an original portrait by Rembrandt Peale. 
 
 3. FRANCIS WAYLAND, the fourth President. A full-length portrait. A fine 
 
 marble bust of Wayland, executed by Ball, of Boston, is in the college 
 library. 
 
 4. MOSES BROWN, the youngest of the " Four Brothers." 
 
 5. NICHOLAS BROWN. A full-length portrait, by Harding. 
 
 6. THOMAS POYNTON IVES, a distinguished benefactor of the college. Born in 
 
 1769. 
 
 7. ASHER ROBBINS, an early tutor, and the first librarian of the college. 
 
 8. HENRY WHEATON, Minister Plenipotentiary at Berlin. Graduated in 1802. 
 
 9. ADONIRAM JUDSON, missionary to Burmah. Graduated in 1807. 
 
 10. TRISTAM BURGESS, the distinguished orator. Graduated in 1796. 
 
 11. SOLOMON DROWNE, a Professor twenty-three years. Graduated in 1773. 
 
 12. NATHAN B. C ROCKER. For nearly sixty years rector of St. John s Church, 
 
 Providence, and for fifty-five years a Fellow of the University. 
 
 SOLDIERS, STATESMEN, ETC., DISTINGUISHED IN RHODE ISLAND HISTORY. 
 
 1. WILLIAM CODDINGTON, the first Governor of Rhode Island. 
 
 2. CHARLES II., from whom Rhode Island received her charter, in 1663. A 
 
 fine original picture by Caspars, an artist contemporary with the King. 
 
 3. CATHERINE OF BRAGANZA, his Queen. Also an original, by Gaspars. 
 
 4. EZEK HOPKINS, the first commodore in the American navy. 
 
 5. WILLIAM BARTON, the captor of Major-General Prescott. 
 
 6. ABRAHAM WHIFFLE, the " Daring Commodore." 
 
 7. SAMUEL SLATER, the founder of the manufacturing interests of Rhode 
 
 Island and of America. 
 
 8. OLIVER HAZARD PERRY, the hero of Lake Erie. 
 
1780-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 397 
 
 Hall. The visitor will gaze upon it with renewed interest 
 as successive years roll on. It is greatly to be regretted 
 that the portraits of his worthy sire and ancestors cannot 
 be placed by its side. 
 
 Returning now to our narrative, we learn from the fol 
 lowing extract from a letter addressed by Mr. Nicholas 
 Brown, senior, to the Rev. Dr. Smith, dated Nov. 9, 1786, 
 that Dr. Manning resumed his accustomed duties at the 
 college in the beginning of November of that year. The 
 extract is introduced as an illustration, in part, of the dif 
 ficulties with which the college had to contend, owing to 
 the scarcity of money and the confused state of the times. 
 
 " Mr. Manning arrived here early in this month, so that we have been 
 destitute of a supply for the pulpit only two or three Sabbaths. The cor 
 poration were put to the necessity of beginning college exercises with the 
 new tutor, young Mr. Flint, several days after the scholars had arrived, 
 Mr. Bobbins having been detained at New London, waiting for a passage, 
 until after Mr. Manning left. The worst of all is that we are still desti 
 tute of a steward, several having applied for the place who were not 
 
 9. GILBERT STTTART, the painter of Washington s portraits. Born in Rhode 
 Island. 
 
 10. GEORGE BERKELEY, the distinguished Irish prelate and philosopher. Re- 
 
 sided at Newport. 
 
 11. WILLIAM ELLERY CHANGING, the distinguished Unitarian divine. 
 
 12. CHRISTOPHER GREEN, a lieutenant-colonel in the army of the Revolution. 
 
 13. ISAAC P. HODMAN, a Brigadier-General of Rhode Island. Fell at the bat 
 
 tle of Antietam. 
 
 14. Major-General AMBROSE E. BTJRNSIDE. A full-length portrait, painted from 
 
 life, by E. Leutze, of New York. 
 
 The collection, as will be observed, includes men of all ranks and professions, 
 aud affords a happy illustration of the tie that binds together the varied interests 
 of college and State. Most of the portraits have been obtained within the past 
 five years, through the exertions of the Hon. J. R. Bartlett, Secretary of State, 
 to whom the grateful thanks of the public are justly due for his generous and 
 philanthropic labors. An enterprise so auspiciously commenced will, we trust, 
 be carried on from year to year. Many portraits are still wanting to add com 
 pleteness to the collection. 
 
 34 
 
398 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 judged suitable, and several having been applied to who have declined. 
 The want of some officer of college to attend the place of the institution, 
 will, I fear, be a disadvantage. But the badness of the pay heretofore, 
 and the scarcity of money, the paper currency, and the confused state of 
 law and justice, both in your State and in our own, where the scholars 
 come from, arc real difficulties. The fact, too, that the students are 
 obliged to board out, instead of boarding in commons, has greatly in 
 creased the expenses. Yet, I believe, if due attention is paid by the offi 
 cers, we shall have many students in, at least by next Commencement." 
 
 TO THE EEV. DR. SMITH. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Jan. 18, 1787. 
 DEAR SIR: 
 
 Yours of the 15th ult. came to hand a few days ago. Am happy to 
 hear of your welfare, but am sorry to hear of Mrs. Smith s indisposition. 
 Hope it has proved of short duration. About a month ago I was seized 
 with a violent fit of the bilious colic, which confined me about a fortnight, 
 and threatened my life. Through divine favor I am happily recovered, 
 and we all enjoy usual health. The town is generally healthy. Mr. 
 Nicholas Brown has lost his new-born son. Mr. Jonathan Jenckes is 
 married to the widow Bowers, who lived across the way. No late intelli 
 gence from the westward. Trade amongst us is very declining. Brown 
 and Benson, by a seizure at Surinam, have lost about four thousand dol 
 lars, and Jenckes, Winsor, and Co. about the same sum by the like means 
 in Virginia. The paper money of this State has run down to six for one, 
 notwithstanding which the Legislature continue it as a tender, and mean 
 to do so, and to pay off all the State debts with it, be it as bad as it may. 
 At the last session I petitioned them to pay my advances, and the re 
 mainder of my salary as delegate, amounting to upwards of four hun 
 dred dollars. This they offered to do in their paper, but in no other way. 
 Besides, they have ordered all the import orders brought in and exchanged 
 at the treasury for paper at par, so that I must lose five sixths of my 
 salary so paid to me. A more infamous set of men under the character 
 of a legislature, never, I believe, disgraced the annals of the world. 
 And there is no prospect of a change for the better. Of all the arrear 
 ages of tuition for the last year, and the quarter advanced in this, I have 
 not received ten pounds. I was taken sick the day after the second great 
 snow, with no provisions in the cellar except one hundred-weight of 
 cheese, two barrels of cider, and some potatoes ; with not a load of wood 
 
1786-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 at my door ; nor could I command a single dollar to supply these wants. 
 The kindness of my neighbors, however, kept me from suffering. But 
 when a man has hardly earned money, to be reduced to this abject state 
 of dependence requires the exercise of more grace than I can boast of. 
 I feel for you in the situation which you mention, but it is a very trying 
 time, and few of our ministering brethren are exempt from those trials. 
 Nor would it probably be easy for you to better yourself. I have serious 
 thought of removing to the farm at the Jerseys, and undertake digging 
 for my support. Should things wear the same unfavorable aspect next 
 year, I believe I shall make the experiment, if my life is spared. 
 
 The college consists of about the same number as it did before Com 
 mencement, but the delinquency of the students in paying their bills 
 must, if not altered, break up the college, as the affairs cannot be sup 
 ported, especially as all assistance from our fund is cut off, if indeed it is 
 not totally annihilated, which I greatly fear from the temper of the times. 
 
 I completed your business at New York, I believe, agreeably to your 
 wishes, and have your securities and papers all by mo ready for your 
 commands, but I did not choose to send them by an uncertain convey 
 ance. You mention an agreeable journey last October, but don t tell me 
 where. I think with you that there is something godlike in preaching to 
 the poor, who cannot recompense us ; but it is our misfortune to be so 
 generally of that number that we can only contemplate it. I supply the 
 pulpit when able, but have had no application from the church, as such, 
 to do it. Religion is extremely low with us, and confusion in State mat 
 ters seems to increase. Please to present my best respects to Mrs. Smith 
 and family, with all friends, in which Mrs. M. joins. 
 
 Sir, yours, etc., 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 
 
 The language of Dr. Manning, as here applied to the 
 Legislature of Rhode Island, may seem at first unnecessa 
 rily severe. A reference, however, to Gov. Arnold s His 
 tory, and to our biographical sketch of Gen. Varnum, in 
 his forensic effort in the celebrated case of Trevett against 
 Weeden (page 98), will show that it was merited and just. 
 This perhaps was the most trying period of Dr. Manning s 
 life. That he should have had serious thoughts of engaging 
 in agriculture for a support is by no means surprising. 
 
400 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 These, however, were but momentary, and soon passe.d 
 away. Few men, with powers distracted by care, and 
 spirits saddened perhaps by a want of the comforts and 
 conveniences of life, have ever labored more perseveringly, 
 diligently, and cheerfully for the welfare of others, and for 
 the public good, than Manning. 
 
 The Commencement for 1787 seems to have been one 
 of unusual interest, " a large, polite, and crowded assembly 
 of gentlemen and ladies attending upon the exercises, 
 and thus doing honor to the day and themselves by en 
 couraging polite literature, and those useful arts which are 
 the glory of civilized countries." Among the orations 
 upon this occasion was one by Nathaniel Lambert, on 
 " The Present Appearance of Public Affairs in the United 
 States of America portraying the superior advantages 
 to be enjoyed by this country, and the public happiness 
 rationally to be expected, in case the States shall harmo 
 niously agree on the great federal measures necessary for the 
 good of the whole, whereon the convention have been some 
 time deliberating at Philadelphia, and recommending in 
 dustry, the manufactures of our country, and the disuse 
 of foreign goods ; and soliciting the fair daughters of 
 America to set the patriotic example by banishing from 
 their dress the costly gewgaws and articles of foreign pro 
 duction." Doubtless the worthy President had something 
 to do with the selection of this topic, and its happy treat 
 ment. 
 
 The graduates numbered ten ; at the head of whom, on 
 the Triennial, stands the name of Abner Alden, master 
 of the famous school at Rayuhain, Mass., and author of 
 the " Reader " and " The Spelling-book " which supplied 
 our ancestors in the Old Colony with the "rudiments" 
 half a century ago. Mr. Alden was of the fifth genera- 
 
1783-1788- BROWN UNIVERSITY. 401 
 
 tion in lineal descent from John Alden, of whom and Pris- 
 cilla Mullins Longfellow sings. Among them too we no 
 tice Samuel Eddy, 1 for many years a Fellow and secretary 
 of the corporation, and Jonathan Maxcy, President Man 
 ning s successor in office. Mr. Maxcy 2 delivered a poem 
 on the prospects of America, and the valedictory oration. 
 
 1 Hon. Samuel Eddy, LL.D., was born iu Johnston, R. I., March 31, 1769. 
 After his graduation he read lav/, but he never practised it. In 1798 he was 
 elected by the people of Rhode Island Secretary of State, which office he 
 held for twenty-one years in succession. Resigning the secretaryship, he was 
 elected, for three terms, from 1819 to 1825, a Representative in Congress- Subse 
 quently he was appointed Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court of Rhode 
 Island, which position he occupied for eight years, when ill health compelled 
 him to resign. He died February 3, 1839, in the seventieth year of his age. 
 Judge Eddy was justly respected for his uprightness and intelligence, and for 
 the extent and variety of his attainments. He was no debater, says Prof. God- 
 dard, but he wrote with uncommon purity, accuracy, and force. The volumes 
 of the Massachusetts Historical Society are enriched with several contributions 
 from his pen. He was thrice married. His last wife was Mrs. Sarah Dwight, 
 widow of Gamaliel Lyman Dwight, and daughter of the Hon. David Howell. 
 She survived him many years, dying recently at an advanced age. 
 
 2 Rev. Jonathan Maxcy, D.D., was born in Attleboro, Mass., Sept. 2, 1768. 
 Immediately upon graduating, at the early age of nineteen, he was appointed 
 tutor in the college, which position he filled with great acceptance four years, 
 or until 1791, when he was chosen pastor of the Baptist church. In 1792 
 he assumed the duties of the presidency of the college, having been elected 
 President pro tempore. In 1797 he was formally elected President, as appears 
 from the records of the corporation. " The splendor of his genius, and his 
 brilliant talents as an orator and divine," says Dr. Blake, " had become widely 
 known; and under his administration the college acquired a reputation for 
 belles-letters and eloquence inferior to no seminary of learning in the United 
 States/ " His voice," says the Hon. Tristam Burgess, one of his most devoted 
 and admiring pupils, " seemed not to have reached the deep tone of full age; 
 but most of all to resemble that of those concerning whom the Saviour of the 
 world said, of such is the kingdom of heaven. The eloquence of Maxcy 
 was mental. You seemed to hear the soul of the man; and each one of the 
 largest assembly, in the most extended place of worship, received the slightest 
 impulse of his silver voice as if he stood at his very ear. So intensely would he 
 enchain attention, that in the most thronged audience you heard nothing but 
 him and the pulsations of your own heart. His utterance was not more per 
 fect than his whole discourse was instructive and enchanting." 
 
 In the year 1802, Dr. Maxcy, having resigned his office, was appointed Presi- 
 34* 
 
402 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 The fears and forebodings of Dr. Manning in regard to 
 the Confederation proved but too well founded. Not 
 withstanding the efforts of the wisest statesmen, it was 
 found inefficient to promote social order, and all those 
 paramount interests which it is the design of government 
 to foster and protect. Accordingly, in 1787, a national 
 convention met at Philadelphia, and proposed a union of 
 the States upon a more substantial and popular basis, in 
 order that the blessings of freedom might be preserved. 
 A small number of the States adopted the New Constitu- 
 
 clent of Union College, Schenectady, N. Y.. as successor of the Rev. Dr. Jona 
 than Edwards, deceased. In reference to this appointment, we find in Forsyth s 
 Memoir of the Rev. Dr. Alexander Proudfit (pp. 55-59) a curious and interesting 
 letter from the llev. J. B. Johnson, then of Albany, and a Trustee of the col 
 lege, objecting to Maxcy on the ground of his being a Baptist, and hence that 
 his influence as such would be unpropitious to the prosperity of the institution, 
 the support of the college being derived chiefly from those who were opposed 
 to the Baptist persuasion, and perhaps had no inconsiderable prejudice against 
 them. Another objection was that he appeared to the writer to be a violent 
 politician, judging from a Fourth-of-July oration delivered by him, which 
 had been praised as containing some very brilliant expressions and keen 
 sarcasms against the Anti-Federalists. A third and more serious objection, 
 however, was the unsoundness of his theological opinions, of which the follow 
 ing extract from the preface to his sermon on the death of Manning, republished 
 in June, 1796, was quoted as an illustration : " The only thing essential to Chris 
 tian union is love, or benevolent affection. It is, therefore, with me, a fixed 
 principle to censure no man except for immorality. A diversity of religious 
 opinions, in a state so imperfect, obscure, and sinful as the present, is to be ex 
 pected. An entire coincidence in sentiment, even in important doctrines, is by 
 no means essential to Christian society, or the attainment of eternal felicity. 
 How many are there, who appear to have been subjects of regeneration, who 
 have scarcely an entire comprehensive view of one doctrine of the Bible? Will 
 the gates of paradise be barred against these because they did not possess the 
 penetrating sagacity of an Edwards or a Hopkins? Or shall these great theo 
 logical champions engross heaven, and shout hallelujahs from its walls, while a 
 Priestley, a Price, and a Winchester, merely for difference in opinion, though 
 preeminent in virtue, must sink into the regions of darkness and pain? " 
 
 Notwithstanding these objections, Dr. Maxcy, as we have already stated, was 
 chosen President of the college. Previous to this event, when only thirty- 
 three years of age, Harvard University had conferred on him the honorary de 
 gree of Doctor in Divinity, such was his celebrity as a scholar and divine. Here 
 
1780-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 403 
 
 tion, so called, without hesitation, but in most of them it 
 met with great opposition. Especially was this the case 
 in Massachusetts, where the Federalists and Anti-Feder 
 alists, as the friends and enemies of the Constitution were 
 pleased to style themselves, were nearly equal in number. 
 The convention for the adoption or rejection of this im 
 portant instrument met at Boston, on Wednesday, the 9th 
 of January, 1788. It was composed of nearly four hun 
 dred delegates, representing the talent and patriotism of 
 the ancient commonwealth, as well as the conflicting in 
 terests of opposing parties. The debates were continued 
 for a month, and attracted the most profound attention 
 throughout the country. Upon the fate of the Federal 
 Constitution here, it was supposed, depended the fate of 
 the National Government ; or, as Manning expresses it, 
 
 at Schenectady he officiated with increasing reputation until 1804, when he ac 
 cepted the unsolicited appointment of President of South Carolina College, 
 with the fond anticipation of finding a warmer climate more congenial to his 
 physical constitution. Over this latter institution he presided, with almost 
 unprecedented popularity, during the remainder of his life, lie died at Colum 
 bia, S. C., June 4, 1820, aged fifty-two years. 
 
 In his person Dr. Maxcy was small of stature, but of a fine and well-proportioned 
 figure. His features, says his biographer, were regular and manly, indicating 
 intelligence and benevolence, and, especially in conversation and public speak 
 ing they were strongly expressive. Grace and dignity were also combined in 
 all his movements. His writings, or " Literary Remains," edited by the Rev. 
 Dr. Romeo Elton, were published in 1844, in a handsome octavo volume. Eight 
 years later a selection from his Remains," consisting of collegiate addresses, 
 was published in London, making a pleasant little duodecimo volume of one 
 hundred and ninety-one pages. This was also edited by Dr. Elton. Dr. Maxcy 
 was married to Susan, daughter of Commodore Ezek Hopkins, of Providence, 
 a name intimately associated with the history of the Revolution. Besides several 
 daughters, they had four sons, all liberally educated; one of whom, the Hon. 
 Virgil Maxcy, was killed by the explosion of a gun ou board the United States 
 steamship Princeton. 
 
 No painted canvas or sculptured marble perpetuates the likeness of President 
 Maxcy; but so long, says Elton, " as genius, hallowed and sublimed by piety, 
 shall command veneration, he will be remembered in his country as a star of 
 the first magnitude." 
 
404 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 Massachusetts was considered "the hinge on which the 
 whole must turn." As an evidence of the deep interest 
 which he felt in this momentous question, we quote from 
 Mr. Rowland s Memoir the following passage : 
 
 " Dr. Manning was extremely solicitous for ratification. He viewed 
 the situation of the country with all the light of a statesman and a phi 
 losopher, and as a prudent and well-informed citizen he took his mea 
 sures accordingly. He had saved the college funds through the fluctua 
 tions and storms of one revolution, and he now saw them dissipated and 
 lost forever, unless the new form of government should be established. 
 He knew that several clergymen with whom he was connected in the 
 bonds of religious union were members of the convention, and that they 
 were generally opposed to the ratification. He therefore repaired to Bos 
 ton, and attended the debates and proceedings of the convention. His 
 most valued and intimate friend, the Rev. Dr. Stillman, was one of 
 the twelve representatives of the town of Boston in the convention, and 
 zealous for the adoption ; and in their freqiient intercourse with their 
 friends who were members, they endeavored to remove the objections of 
 
 such as were in the opposition With the Rev. Isaac Backus, who 
 
 was a delegate from the town of Middleborough, and considered one of 
 the most powerful men of the Anti-Federal party, they were not able to 
 succeed. The question of ratification was finally carried, by a majority 
 of nineteen (one hundred and eighty-seven yeas, and one hundred and 
 sixty -eight nays), after a full and able discussion. The writer of these 
 sketches well recollects the cordial congratulations with which Dr. Man 
 ning greeted his friends on the decision of this convention, after his return 
 from Boston." 
 
 In connection with the facts stated by Howland, we 
 cannot forbear to add an incident mentioned by Dr. Wa- 
 terhouse, which we find quoted by Prof. Goddard. On the 
 last day of the session of the convention, and before the 
 final question was taken, the President, Gov. Hancock, in 
 vited Dr. Manning to " close the solemn convocation witli 
 thanksgiving and prayer." Dr. Manning, though taken 
 by surprise, immediately dropped on his knees, and poured 
 
1786-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 405 
 
 out his heart in a strain of exalted patriotism and fervid 
 devotion, which awakened in the assembly a mingled sen 
 timent of admiration and awe. The impression which he 
 made must have been extraordinary ; for, says Dr. Water- 
 house, who dined in a large company, after the adjourn 
 ment, " the praise of the Rev. Dr. Manning was in every 
 mouth. Nothing but the popularity of Dr. Stillman pre 
 vented the rich men of Boston from building a church for 
 Dr. Manning s acceptance." 
 
 In the following letter Manning alludes to his attend 
 ance upon the debates of the Massachusetts Convention : 
 
 TO THE KEV. DK. SMITH. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Feb. 11, 1788. 
 To THE REV. DK. SMITH : 
 
 MY DEAR SIR : This morning was handed me your agreeable favor 
 of the 30th ult. I am happy to hear that you and yours enjoy health ; 
 but sorry that with me you have cause to complain of the low state of 
 religion. To be useful, is and must be the wish of every good man; but 
 perhaps we may not always be the most competent judges of our useful 
 ness. God may be doing that by us, which we little think of, that may 
 redound to his glory. One or two, I hope, have lately met with a change 
 amongst us, and there appears a greater degree of attention than for some 
 time past. I continue still to preach to the people as a supply, till Mr. 
 Stanford, from New York, arrives, whom the church and congregation 
 have unanimously chosen their pastor. He is expected as soon as winter 
 breaks. He paid us a visit at the invitation of the committee last Christ 
 mas, and spent two Lord s Days with us to great acceptance. He was to 
 have been with us by the middle of this month, but had a three weeks 
 passage back. Elder Asa Hunt called on me last week on his way from 
 Virginia, where he has been for several months, having travelled seven 
 hundred miles in that State, and preached, I think, seventy times. He 
 brings refreshing tidings of the work of the Lord there, and of the great 
 increase of our churches. Two most agreeable letters I received from re 
 spectable ministers there, of whom I had not before heard. One of them 
 
406 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 mentions that there are about one hundred Baptist churches in that State, 
 averaging each at least one hundred members. Great additions are daily 
 making to them, and they call aloud for ministers of education. I never 
 wanted to visit that country so much as now. 
 
 The college continues gradually to increase. The expense of boarding 
 in commons, tuition, room-rent, and library and apparatus privileges, 
 granting one fourth of the year for vacations, amounts to just 20 5s. 9d. 
 lawful money (about sixty-eight dollars) at present, but I expect the com 
 mons will be lowered as soon as stability in government takes place, a 
 period I now hope not far distant. Wood is about twelve shillings per 
 cord ; and other incidental expenses as moderate here, or more so, than at 
 Dartmouth. Two of our young men the Commencement before were at 
 Dartmouth, Gov. Bowen s son and Mr. Nicholas Brown s son, who made 
 particular inquiry, and they assure me that the expense of living equally 
 well was greater there than here. I make not a doubt but he would find 
 his account in coming to Providence, and we should be happy to receive 
 him and do well by him. I hoped to have more particulars of your last 
 fall tour. The reason of Brother Gano s leaving New York, is want of 
 an adequate support, which fails through the opposition of a certain Mr. 
 Robbins and his adherents in that church, who wish to govern it in their 
 own way. 
 
 I felt so deeply interested in the adoption of the new Federal Constitu 
 tion by your State, that I attended the debates in convention more than 
 a fortnight, and expected to have seen you at Boston on that occasion. I 
 considered Massachusetts the hinge on which the whole must turn, and am 
 happy in congratulating you on the favorable issue of their deliberations. 
 I am mortified to find Father Alden among the nays. The good work at 
 New London and its vicinity, I am told, increases, and has spread to 
 Norwich ; and there is a great awakening where Grow used to preach, 
 and in Canada Parish. Please to present my best respects to Mrs. Smith 
 and family and other friends, in which Mrs. Manning joins with, dear sir, 
 
 Yours, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 From this time Dr. Manning held no political office, al 
 though he always took a prominent part in public affairs, 
 and was thoroughly familiar with the discussions and con 
 troversies of the day. The final adoption of the Federal 
 
1780-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 407 
 
 Constitution by the people of Rhode Island, notwithstand 
 ing the persistent and bitter hostility of its opponents, 
 was a result due in no small measure, doubtless, to his wise 
 counsels and superior influence. We present his corres 
 pondence for the remainder of the year, commencing with 
 a letter from the Rev. Dr. Rippon of London. 
 
 LONDON, Feb. 14, 1788. 
 KEVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 I have but a few minutes to spare this forenoon, which should have 
 been devoted to your service, having passed in company, which unexpect 
 edly has detained me. However, I most sincerely thank you for the short 
 but comprehensive sketch of religious affairs communicated in your last 
 of September, 1787, and also for your respectful introduction of the Selec 
 tions 1 at the Chelmsford Association. The first edition of three thousand 
 is gone, except about fifty books, and the second edition, I hope, will be 
 quite printed off in April next. In case it meets with the approbation of 
 our American brethren, and there is any probability of its spread, would 
 it be against any rule of your Association to advertise the second edition ? 
 I have mentioned this to one or two brethren on your side of the water. 
 No book printed in any time has had so rapid a sale among the Baptists 
 as this. 
 
 With this please to accept a pamphlet or two, by which you will see in 
 some measure what we are about in this country. The three denomina 
 tions of Presbyterians, Independents, and Anti-Pedobaptists in this city are 
 united together by a political bond. We met about a week since, and drew 
 up a petition to Parliament for the abolition of the slave trade. The 
 meeting was perfectly unanimous. We fear that there will be great op 
 position to the petition, but we hope to prevent the importation of any 
 more slaves, from Africa at least. The petitions to be presented by clerical 
 and political bodies are likely to be numerous and very general. While 
 so many thousands are nobly engaged in this, the cause of humanity, may 
 you succeed in your own peculiar career, distinguished from every other 
 by a " glory that excelleth." 
 
 1 " A Selection qf Hymns from the best authors, intended to be an Appendix 
 to Dr. Watts s Psalms and Hymns. By John Rippon, A.M." 12mo. London. 
 Printed by Thos. Wilkins ; and sold on weekdays at the vestry of Mr. Kippon s 
 meeting-house. 1787. 
 
408 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 You mention the number of sixty students. Of what advantage may 
 the wise and good among these be, not only to the present but future gen 
 erations ! Long may you live, and under your auspices may the college 
 enjoy your felicity ; and in a remote period, when the public prints an 
 nounce that Dr. Manning was, may it be said, "He shone through a 
 long -lengthened day, the ornament and boast of all his connections, and 
 then set, like the sun, to rise and shine forever." 
 
 Indeed, dear sir, I do feel a great union of heart to you, and to many 
 of our brethren on your side of the Atlantic. It would be an unutterable 
 joy were it in my power to do them any service, but if I can show my 
 love to them no other way, 
 
 " My soul shall pray for Zion still, 
 While life or breath remains ; 
 There my best friends, my kindred dwell, 
 There God my Saviour reigns." 
 
 Mr. Stillman s account of Miss Stillman s death was very affecting and 
 edifying. How plain it is that true religion is produced in the heart of 
 good men by " the self-same spirit " ! 
 
 I shall rejoice to have a long letter from you, as you would have had 
 from me but for the reason mentioned before. I have not time to read 
 this scrawl, but I should suppress some of the first emotions of my mind, 
 were I not to subscribe myself ever, ever very affectionately, 
 
 Your obliged brother in Christ, 
 
 JOHN KIPPON 
 
 p. g, Please to remember me to Doctor Drowne. I hope to write 
 him, and shall be very glad to receive a line from him. 
 
 TO THE REV. THOMAS USTICK, PHILADELPHIA. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Aug. 21, 1788. 
 My DEAR BROTHER: 
 
 Yours of June 10th was long in coming, but is now before me. I am 
 glad to hear that you are so happily restored as to be able to preach to 
 the people, but sorry that you have reason to complain of the low state 
 of religion amongst you. I hope you may see better days in Philadel 
 phia. It is a complaining time, in general, among ministers. Perhaps 
 they themselves, if properly engaged, might in part preVent the cause of 
 it. My own difficulties, I know, call for the exercise of Christian forti 
 tude, but I find it easier to talk of than to exercise it. I thank you, how- 
 
178G-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 409 
 
 ever, for the just remarks contained in your letter. I agree with you that 
 the gospel is an estimable jewel, which we cannot too highly prize. May 
 we be properly anointed by the glorious hopes which it is calculated to 
 inspire. 
 
 Brother Caleb Blood, of Newtown, is the person whom I mentioned to 
 have removed to Vermont. Our Brother Joseph Grafton, of this town 
 and church, is ordained and settled in his place, whose labors appear to 
 be owned amongst that people. He was here last week. Elders Backus, 
 Hunt, and Williams have lately visited us, who are well. I am told that 
 there is a happy revival at Bridgewater, under the ministry of Brother 
 Eobinson. Nothing new respecting the college has occurred since our 
 last. Possibly I may see you this fall at Philadelphia, as I have thoughts 
 of visiting New York. Please to make my best respects to Mrs. Ustick 
 and the family, in which Mrs. Manning unites, with, dear sir, 
 
 Your unworthy brother, 
 JAMES 
 
 TO THE BEY. DR. SMITH. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, June 10, 1788. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 Yours of the 6th inst. came to hand a few hours since, by Mr. Messer. 1 
 We have examined and entered the young gentleman into the Sophomore 
 class, though he had not read quite so much as the class. His abilities 
 
 i Rev. Asa Messer, D.D., LL.D. He was born in Methuen, Mass., in the year 
 1769. His father was a farmer on the banks of the Merrimac. At the age of 
 thirteen he left the town school in his native place, and went to live in Haver- 
 hill, where for nearly a year he was clerk in a wholesale grocery store. Having 
 given up his clerkship, he studied for a short time under the instruction of the 
 Rev. Dr. Hezekiah Smith, and then finished his preparation for college at 
 Windham, New Hampshire. He graduated in 1790. Soon afterwards he be 
 came interested in religious truth, was baptized, and received into the fellow 
 ship of the church in Providence, of which Dr. Maxcy was then pastor. By 
 this church he was, in 1792, licensed to preach, and in 1801 he received ordina 
 tion. He was elected a tutor of the college in 1791, and remained in this office 
 till he was elected, in 1796, Professor of the Learned Languages. In 1799 he 
 was appointed Professor of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy; and this 
 station he continued to hold until the resignation of Dr. Maxcy, in 1802, when 
 he was chosen President. For twenty-four years he presided over the affairs 
 of the college; diligently and efficiently participating in the duties of instruc 
 tion, and supervising, with no common practical sagacity, its disordered finan 
 ces. In 1826 he resigned the office of President. Possessing, says his biographer, 
 35 
 
410 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 and proficiency appear very good ; and from your commendation of him 
 we hope the will do well. Am obliged to you for your interest in for 
 warding him. 
 
 I rejoice to hear of the Lord s work at Byfield and Rowley. Hope it 
 may become universal. Then Haverhill and Providence will receive a 
 
 a handsome competence, the fruit in part of his habitual frugality, he was en 
 abled to pass the remainder of his life in the enjoyment of independent leisure. 
 After his retirement from collegiate toils, his fellow-citizens of Providence 
 elected him, for several years, to responsible municipal trusts ; and these trusts 
 he discharged with his characteristic punctuality and uprightness. He died 
 October 11, 1836, in the sixty-eighth year of his age. 
 
 Dr. Messer was married to Deborah Angell, by whom he had four children, a 
 son that died in infancy, and three daughters. The youngest daughter was 
 married to the late Hon. Horace Mann, and the second to Sidney Williams, Esq., 
 of Taunton, Mass. Mr. Williams now resides on the paternal estate. The eldest 
 daughter was never married. 
 
 Dr. Messer s " religious opinions," says Prof. Goddard, " especially for the last 
 twenty years of his life, corresponded nearly to those of the General Baptists 
 of England. He was a strenuous advocate for the supremacy of the Scriptures, 
 and for their entire sufficiency in matters of faith and practice. As a preacher, 
 he wanted the attractive graces of elocution ; but he never failed to address to 
 the understanding and the conscience the most clear and cogent exhibitions of 
 the great practical truths of the Bible. For what is termed polite literature he 
 had no particular fondness, but he was a good classical scholar, and was well 
 versed in the mathematics and the several branches of natural philosophy. In 
 moral science, also, we have known few better reasoners or more successful 
 teachers. In fine, Dr. Messer was remarkable rather for the vigor than the 
 versatility of his powers; rather for solid acquirement than for captivating 
 embellishments; rather for wisdom than for wit; rather for grave processes of 
 ratiocination than for the airy frolics of fancy. In 1824 he received from 
 Harvard University the honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity, having previ 
 ously received the same degree from his ALMA MATER, and that of Doctor of 
 Laws from the University of Vermont." 
 
 " I cannot remember," says the Eev. Dr. E. A. Park, in a recent letter which 
 he furnished for Sprague s Annals of the American Pulpit, "the time when I 
 was not familiar with the countenance of President Messer. Before I entered 
 college I saw him every week, and while I was a member of college I saw him 
 every day; and no one who has ever seen him can ever forget him. His indi 
 viduality was made unmistakable by his physical frame. This, while it was 
 above the average height, was also in breadth an emblem of the expansiveness 
 of his mental capacity. A long head was vulgarly ascribed to him, but it 
 was breadth that marked his forehead; there was an expressive breadth in his 
 maxillary bones ; his broad shoulders were a sign of the weight which he was 
 able to bear; his manner of walking was a noticeable symbol of the reach of 
 
1786-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 411 
 
 blessing. Am. surprised that mine in answer to yours of March 17, and 
 every other I have received, has not reached you. I have been punctual 
 in writing, and giving you all the information I could. Our wicked State 
 has rejected the Constitution by the town meetings to which the Legisla 
 ture sent it, instead of complying with the recommendation of the Gen 
 eral Convention. Our rulers are deliberately wicked, but the people of 
 some of the towns begin to wake up since South Carolina has adopted 
 the new Constitution, and Massachusetts has so effectually crushed 
 Shayism. My visit to New York was very short and full of business, so 
 that I did not go to visit one of my brothers or sister, though I was at 
 the Plains. My object was to assist Brother Gano off for Kentucky, 
 which took up all my time. I heard from none of your friends. Indeed, 
 I had no opportunity. Mr. Gano with his family left the Plains the first 
 Wednesday in May. Many families of his people, Mr. Van Horn s 
 and Mr. Hart s, are gone also, and more are proposing. A surprising 
 spirit of emigration prevails there. The church at New York are with 
 out a supply, and probably will be for a time. Mr. Stanford is still very 
 acceptable to all evangelical hearers. The house is pretty full, but he 
 meets with some trials. Two weeks ago Mr. Alison of Bordcntown paid 
 us a visit, and entered a young gentleman in the Junior Class. 
 
 The college has more students than ever it had ; consequently my ser 
 vices are greater than ever. Our oldest tutor, Bobbins, has been unable 
 to do any duty since last December, and is gone to Connecticut, five weeks 
 since, from whom we have had no certain accounts. I doubt his ever 
 being well again, or taking his place in college. So you see I must deny 
 myself the pleasure of attending the New Hampshire Association. The 
 state of religion in York is not as promising as in times past. Near 
 
 his mind ; ho swung his cane far and wide as he walked, and no observer would 
 doubt that he was an independent man; he gesticulated broadly as he preached; 
 his enunciation was forcible, now and then overwhelming, sometimes shrill, 
 but was characterized by a breadth of tone and a prolonged emphasis which 
 added to its momentum, and made an indelible impress on the memory. His 
 pupils, when they had been unfaithful, trembled before his expansive frown, 
 as it portended a rebuke which would well-nigh devour them ; and they felt a 
 dilating of the whole soul when they were greeted with his good and honest 
 
 and broad smile As a son, brother, husband, father, he was the central 
 
 object of attraction, and the beams of joy and love uniformly radiated from 
 him over all the inmates of his happy home." 
 
 It is exceedingly to be regretted that no portrait or engraving exists to per 
 petuate the likeness of this remarkable man. 
 
412 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 Peekskill and higher up it flourishes, and so it does in the Jerseys under 
 the ministry of Brother Wilson. The York church has sent out a flam 
 ing young preacher, Tommy Montague, who outshines us all they say. 
 I think the church at York have some thoughts of Brother Foster at 
 Newport, and he of them. He visits them by request in July. My spring 
 letters from London bring nothing of importance now, except the com 
 pletion of the second edition of Mr. Booth s treatise on Baptism, which 
 is much enlarged. I have not perused it. My best love to Mrs. Smith 
 and family, in which, as well as to yourself and all friends, Mrs. Man 
 ning cordially unites with, dear sir, 
 
 Yours, etc., 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 The Commencement for this year occurred on "Wed 
 nesday, Sept. 3. As the day, says the passing record, 
 was fine, so the concourse of people was prodigious. The 
 procession composed of the corporation and the officers, 
 o f the graduates and the students, of the clergy and other 
 literati, from abroad in greater numbers than ever attended 
 here before began in the usual order at college, about 
 eleven o clock in the morning, and was escorted by the 
 gallant company of artillery commanded by Col. Tilling- 
 hast to the Baptist meeting-house. In looking over the 
 order of exercises on this occasion, we notice, besides the 
 salutatory oration in Latin, an oration in Hebrew on the 
 eloquence of the Scriptures, an oration in French on let 
 ters in general, an oration in Greek on the importance of 
 encouraging genius, a dialogue in blank verse on the sit 
 uation and prospects of America, and a comic dialogue to 
 ridicule false learning. As was the custom at all the ear 
 lier Commencements of the college, the exercises were con 
 tinued through the day, with a recess at noon. The vale 
 dictory oration was pronounced by Amos Maine Atwell, 
 of Providence. Among those who graduated on this oc- 
 
1786-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 413 
 
 casion, was James Burrill, 1 who for sixteen years was suc 
 cessively elected, amid all the vicissitudes and competi 
 tions of party, to the responsible office of Attorney Gen 
 eral of Rhode Island, and who was afterwards a member 
 of the United States Senate. 
 
 FROM THE REV. MORGAN EDWARDS. 
 
 PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 18, 1788. 
 MY OLD ACQUAINTANCE : 
 
 I am now thinking how long it is since you and I have seen each oth 
 er s face or perused each other s letters ; and what the reason is, and 
 whose fault (if a fault) it is. But as the inquiry hardly deserves a de 
 cision, I let all pass in silence, that I may proceed to inquire after your 
 present state of health. I hope this will find you in a comfortable situa 
 tion ; at least I wish it may. I feel as well and as strong as an old man 
 of sixty-seven years can expect to be. 
 
 Some years ago I sent you a manuscript ; whether you received it or 
 not I cannot say. It was a collection of some historical facts relative to 
 the Baptists. If you have the book, please return it to me as soon as con- 
 veniency offers. Herewith I send you a small piece newly published. 
 Your remarks upon it will be interesting to me as an editor, especially 
 if it should pass through another edition. 
 
 My love and good wishes attend you and yours. 
 
 M. EDWARDS. 
 
 1 Hon. James Burrill, LL.D., was born in Providence, iu 1772. He was prepared 
 for college by William Wilkinson, Esq., then an eminent classical and mathe 
 matical teacher in that town. He graduated at the early age of sixteen, and 
 after completing his professional studies commenced, at the age of nineteen, the 
 practice of the law in his native town. So rapid was his rise at the bar, that, 
 at the age of twenty-five, he was elected by the people to the office of Attorney 
 General, and this office he continued to hold for about sixteen years, until bod 
 ily infirmity compelled him to retire from the bar. In 1816 he was elected Chief 
 Justice of the Supreme Court of Rhode Island, and a few months afterwards 
 a Senator in Congress. He attended only four sessions of that body, his val 
 uable life having been prematurely terminated by a pulmonary disease, Dec. 25, 
 1820, in the forty-ninth year of. his age. " During his short career in Congress," 
 says Prof. Goddard, " Mr. Burrill won for himself a very high rank. To the 
 Senate of the United States there perhaps never had belonged a more useful 
 legislator or a more practical statesman. All who knew Mr. Burrill marvelled 
 
 35* 
 
414 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 FROM THE REV. DR. EVANS. 
 
 DOWN END, NEAR BRISTOL, Sept. 20, 1788. 
 DEAR SIR: 
 
 As a memorial of my friendship, and some slight atonement for former 
 neglects, I write you this billet by my dear Brother and Sister Mullett, 
 to thank you for your former attentions to the first, and to commend them 
 both to your further notice. Our anxieties and emotions at parting with 
 those we have so much reason to love, and especially with a sister en 
 deared to us from her earliest infancy by every quality that can render 
 any character truly respectable and truly amiable, are not to be de 
 scribed. But we cast all our care on that God who careth for all those 
 who trust in him, and has promised not to leave nor forsake them. 
 
 I enclose you a few Association letters, etc., which may give you more 
 information than I have leisure to communicate. Dr. Stennett s Sermons 
 on the Parable of the Sower you have doubtless seen. They are truly 
 excellent, as giving the best instructions to preachers as well as hearers. 
 I would also recommend to your notice Dr. Priestley s Lectures on His 
 tory, as the best book on that interesting subject I ever met with. If I 
 can I will herewith send it, and beg your acceptance of it for the library 
 of your college. I wish also to acquaint you with the reasons we have to 
 expect soon a capital history of the Baptists, by William Robinson of 
 Cambridge, and if possible, will get some of his letters to me on that sub 
 ject transcribed for that purpose. 
 
 It gives me no small concern to find your government making so dis 
 graceful a figure amongst the other sister States. Surely, if they knew 
 how foreigners look upon them, they Avould blush. I should, however, 
 have scarcely ventured to say this, if I could not have added that I am 
 happy to find the town of New Providence shines forth as a luminous 
 spot upon this dark mass, and appears the brighter for the darkness which 
 surrounds it. 
 
 What shall I say to tempt you to renew a correspondence you have 
 
 at the opulence of his resources, and at his power to command them at pleasure. 
 In the operations of his mind there was no indication of excess, of feebleness, 
 or of confusion. On the contrary, he was always judicious, luminous, and for 
 cible master of an infinite variety of facts and principles, and ever ready in 
 applying them. He seldom wrote, although he was capable of writing well; 
 and it is sad to think that his fame, as a lawyer and as a statesman, must soon 
 become only a matter of dim traditionary recollection." 
 
1786-1788. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 415 
 
 hitherto found so fruitless ? May I not remind you that it is more blessed 
 to give than to receive ? And you have much to give which will be thank 
 fully received, though you may receive little or nothing in return. I shall 
 also be glad to hear of the general state of religion in America, of the 
 progress of civilization, etc., etc., in Kentucky, the prosperity of the Bap 
 tist college, the health and usefulness of its worthy President, etc. And 
 you may possibly, now my connections with America are so tender, find 
 me a more punctual, if not a more intelligent correspondent than I have 
 hitherto been. Dr. Priestley s writings in the theological line you are 
 probably no stranger to, and surely he has gone to the ne plus ultra of her 
 esy. Further he cannot go and retain the name of Christian, for the sub 
 stance of Christianity he has long since discarded. I am preaching a few 
 sermons on the atonement, in opposition to his strange, unsupported 
 notions. Such doctrines cannot long prevail. They have no internal 
 energy. 
 
 I have heard an excellent character of the son of the late Jonathan Ed 
 wards. Can you give me any anecdotes respecting him ? 
 
 I remain, dear sir, with every wish the sincerest friendship can dictate 
 for you and your family and extensive connections, 
 
 Your affectionate friend and brother, 
 
 CALEB EVANS. 
 
 p. s. I write this in haste, at a country retreat four miles from town, 
 
 and have not my papers with me, or I would make a regular acknowl 
 edgment of your repeated favors before and since the safe arrival of the 
 books. 
 
 I had like to have forgot to say, do you want a good linguist to as 
 sist in the college or grammar school with you, or to send to Kentucky ? 
 A young man of this description left our academy last vacation, who, 
 having few friends here, and a very slender voice, which is a bar to his 
 popularity, seems willing to go abroad could he have any encouragement. 
 He is a good young man, has very tolerable talents as a preacher, and is 
 an excellent mechanical scholar in Latin, Greek, Hebrew, Syriac, and has 
 some knowledge of the first rudiments of the mathematics. He is defi 
 cient in a general course of knowledge and reading, but habituated to dil 
 igence, and very capable of improvement. I should have kept him here 
 another year, had not some particular circumstances prevented it. I 
 really think he might be an important acquisition in such a department 
 as I have mentioned, and I am persuaded he would come over upon very 
 moderate encouragement. 
 
416 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 TO THE REV. DR. SMITH. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Dec. 17, 1788. 
 DEAR SIR: 
 
 Yours of the 25th ult. came safe to hand. Am sorry for and sympa 
 thize with you in your trials, but God means them for good to you ; though 
 we are impatient, oftentimes, under the salutary discipline of a heavenly 
 parent. I cannot bear to think of your leaving Haverhill. I hope God 
 has work for you to do there yet, and is now preparing you for it. I 
 should be sorry should you come to a resolution of taking your son from 
 college. I hope you may yet see a brighter sky, which will encourage you 
 to proceed. The conduct of the people I doubt not is trying. You did 
 well in not being precipitate. We must let our moderation be known, and 
 indeed we need much of it. I hope you meet with success in the petition to 
 the House of New Hampshire, but fear, as their session was so short, they 
 did not take that up ; if not, I hope they will when they meet next. Am 
 glad to hear that things were agreeable at Mr. Wood s settlement at Ware. 
 I hope he will prove a blessing to them. I think him a valuable man. 
 
 The abridgment of Dr. Gill, through the scarcity of money, is stopped 
 for the present, as very little encouragement has yet been given for the 
 work. Dr. Jones himself does not expect it will go on, and the money 
 which was put into my hands for that purpose I have returned long since. 
 Thus endetk that lesson. 
 
 Your son, I think, wants a little more stability ; he seems to fluctuate 
 too much. Upon giving him your letter to me to read, he seemed to con 
 clude he is not likely to come to college any more. Instability is natural 
 to young minds, but it may be checked in some degree by proper culture ; 
 and a parent greatly beloved can accomplish this the best. Mr. Stanford 
 has hinted to the people that they are not to expect his stay after the 
 expiration of the term agreed on ; but the committee have within a few 
 days past had two meetings, the last of which was with him, and are de 
 termined to use their influence to prevent it. With sentiments of esteem, 
 and love to Mrs. Smith, in which Mrs. Manning joins, I am, etc., 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 It seems proper in this chapter, which illustrates more 
 particularly Dr. Manning s political character and life, to 
 give some account of his efforts in behalf of popular edu 
 cation. 
 
1786-1788. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 417 
 
 The late Samuel Thurber, in a letter addressed to Judge 
 Staples, which we find in his Annals of Providence, says 
 of schools, that, " previous to about the year 1770, they 
 were but little thought of. There were," he says, " in my 
 neighborhood, three small schools, with perhaps a dozen 
 scholars in each. Their books were the Bible, spelling- 
 book, and primer. One kept by John Foster, Esq., in his 
 office ; one by Dr. Benjamin West. Their fees were seven 
 shillings and sixpence per quarter. One kept by George 
 Taylor, Esq., for the church scholars. He, it was said, re 
 ceived a small compensation from England. Besides these 
 there were two or three women schools. When one had 
 learned to read, write, and do a sum in the rule of three, 
 he was fit for business." " The Rev. James Manning," Mr. 
 Thurber remarks in another place, " did great things in the 
 way of enlightening and informing the people. Schools 
 revived by means of his advice and assistance. Previous 
 to him it was not uncommon to meet with those who 
 could not write their names." 
 
 The leading facts pertaining to the history of popular 
 education in Providence are given by Judge Staples. 
 That Manning was prominent in all efforts made in his 
 day for the improvement of society and the public good, 
 is evident from the tenor of his life and correspondence 
 thus far. He was a member of the school committee of 
 the town, and for many years the chairman. One of the 
 last acts of his life was to draw up a report in favor of the 
 establishment of free public schools, which report was pre 
 sented at an adjourned town meeting held in the State 
 House, Monday, Aug. 1, 1791, only two days after the 
 author had been followed to the tomb. We shall be par 
 doned if we give an extract from this valuable report, 
 which, although not carried into immediate execution, was 
 
418 MANNING AND CHAP. IX. 
 
 cordially received and adopted at the time, and which, 
 doubtless, paved the way for the introduction, a few years 
 later, of the present free-school system of Providence. 
 
 It seems that, at the annual town meeting in June, a pe 
 tition had been presented, praying that a sufficient number 
 of schoolmasters be appointed to instruct all the children 
 in town at the public expense ; which petition was referred 
 to the school committee, of which Manning was chairman, 
 with instructions to report thereon at an adjourned meet 
 ing. The report thus begins : 
 
 " To the freemen of the town of Providence, to be convened next by ad 
 journment, the underwritten members of your school committee, in 
 pursuance of your resolution at your last meeting, report : 
 After the most deliberate and mature consideration of the subject, we 
 are clearly of opinion that the measure proposed by the petitioners is eli 
 gible, for many reasons. 
 
 1 . Useful knowledge, generally diffused among the people, is the sur 
 est means of securing the rights of man, of promoting the public pros 
 perity, and perpetuating the liberties of a country. 
 
 2. As civil community is a kind of joint tenancy in respect to the 
 gifts and abilities of individual members thereof, it seems not improper 
 that the disbursements necessary to qualify those individuals for useful 
 ness should be made from common funds. 
 
 3. Our lives and properties, in a free state, are so much in the power 
 of our fellow-citizens, and the reciprocal advantages of daily intercourse 
 are so much dependent on the information and integrity of our neighbors, 
 that no wise man can feel himself indifferent to the progress of useful 
 learning, civilization, and the preservation of morals in the community 
 where he resides. 
 
 4. The most reasonable object of getting wealth, after our own wants 
 are supplied, is to benefit those who need it ; and it may with great pro 
 priety be demanded, in what way can those whose wealth is redundant 
 benefit their neighbors more certainly and permanently than by furnish 
 ing to their children the means of qualifying them to become good and 
 useful citizens, and of acquiring an honest livelihood ? 
 
 5. In schools established by public authority, and whose teachers are 
 
1786-1788. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 419 
 
 paid by the public, there will be reason to hope for a more faithful and 
 impartial discharge of the duties of instruction, as well as of discipline 
 among the scholars, than can be expected when the masters are depend 
 ent on individuals for their support." 
 
 The report goes on to recommend that the " Brick 
 Schoolhouse " and " Whipple Hall " be purchased of the 
 proprietors, and that two additional houses be erected, one 
 on the west side of the river. It also recommends that 
 the four schools thus established be under the care and 
 supervision of the school committee, who shall appoint the 
 necessary instructors. It is signed by James Manning, 
 Enos Hitchcock, Moses Brown, Joseph Snow, Moses Bad 
 ger, Jabez Bowen, David Ho well, Benjamin Bourn, John 
 Dorrance, Theodore Foster, and Welcome Arnold. Prov 
 idence, July (seventh month), 1791. Although, as we 
 have already stated, this report was adopted, its provisions 
 were not carried into effect until the year 1800, when the 
 General Assembly passed their first act in relation to free 
 schools, in accordance with a petition to this effect from 
 the Providence Association of Mechanics and Manufactur 
 ers, drawn up and presented by John Howland. On the 
 last Monday in October, 1800, four schools were opened 
 in Providence, under the most favorable auspices. 
 
CHAPTER X. 
 
 1789-1791. 
 
 Letter from Rev. Dr. Gordon, illustrating his political views, and his position 
 in England as the historian of the American war Manning appointed to 
 draft and present to Congress a petition in behalf of Rhode Island Address 
 to the Graduating Class of 1789 Jeremiah B. Howell James Feuner 
 Manning s customary charge to candidates for the ministry Letter to Rev. 
 Abraham Booth Booth s reply Letter from Rev. Dr. Evans Letter to 
 Rev. Dr. Smith Religious interest in Providence Tutor Flint Final adop 
 tion of the Federal Constitution in Rhode Island George Washington s visit 
 to Providence Reception at the College Address of President Manning 
 in behalf of the Corporation Washington s reply Commencement for 
 1790 Moses Brown Degree of LL.D. conferred on Washington Anec 
 dote respecting him Letter to Rev. Dr. Smith respecting Asa Messer, Tutor 
 Flint, etc. Ordination of Mr. Flint Letter from Rev. Abraham Booth 
 Letter from Rev. Dr. Rippon Letter from Rev. Dr. William Richards, of 
 Lynn, England Announces his intention of bequeathing his library to 
 Rhode Island College Account of Mr. Richards Corresponds with Presi 
 dent Messer Bequeaths his library to the University Last letter from 
 Manning, addressed to Rev. Dr. Smith Manning preaches his farewell sermon 
 to the people of his charge Notifies the Corporation of the College to look 
 out for a successor to fill his place Singular presentiment of his approaching 
 mortality His death Universal sorrow and regret Proceedings of the 
 Corporation Funeral Extracts from Maxcy s Funeral Sermon Letter 
 on the occasion of Manning s death from Rev. Dr. Stillman, addressed to 
 Rev. Dr. Smith Letter from Hon. David Howell, in behalf of members of 
 the Corporation, announcing Manning s death to Rev. Dr. Samuel Jones, and 
 in an informal manner designating him as his successor in the Presidency 
 Letter from Rev. Isaac Backus to Rev. Dr. Rippon Extracts from Simeon 
 Doggett s Commencement " Oration on the Death of Rev. President Manning " 
 Extracts from the circular letters of the Warren and Philadelphia Associa 
 tions Manning s personal appearance, habits, character, and influence, as 
 given by Hon. David Ilowell Original portrait of Manning, by Cosmo Alex 
 ander Manning s corpulency Conclusion The College founded by Bap 
 tists to secure for the churches an educated ministry The improvement and 
 elevation of the Baptist denomination through the College the object and aim 
 of Manning s entire professional life. 
 
1789-1791. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 421 
 
 From this date Dr. Manning, it appears, did not preserve 
 copies of his letters abroad, as had heretofore been his 
 custom. We can only therefore present, besides one or 
 two additional letters of his own, a few replies from his 
 friends, which will doubtless be regarded as an interesting 
 part of his correspondence. The following, from the Rev. 
 Dr. Gordon, will serve to illustrate the author s position 
 and views as the historian of the American war. 
 
 RINGWOOD, ENGLAND, Feb. 27, 1789. 
 MY GOOD FRIEND : 
 
 I am mistaken or you are indebted to me for an answer to my last letter. 
 You might delay sending it till you heard where I was settled ; and this 
 you will not do by the present means, but the reverse. You will inquire 
 after the situation of Ringwood, and the reason of my being here. You 
 know I have a pleasure in gratifying you ; and therefore turn to your 
 map of England, look for Hampshire, find out Pool, next the church, 
 which is twelve miles off, then Christ s Church, which is ten in the con 
 trary direction, then Southampton, which is twenty, and so calculate the 
 proper distance between Southampton and Pool, and from Christ Church, 
 then make your dot, and you will either hit or be not far from Ringwood 
 in imagination. I should be glad to see you in reality, though I should 
 be astonished at the sight, and wonder what drove you from the land of 
 the whereases, whether the inhabitants are suddenly going from one ex 
 treme to another and becoming all honest, so that they no longer wanted 
 your instruction or example, or are being so confirmed in their mal 
 practices as that you had forsaken them, from a conviction that they were 
 a set of incurables. Now for the other part of the question, "What brought 
 me hither ? Freedom among friends is best, you know ; and therefore, to 
 be plain with you, when I had seen to the delivery and sending off my 
 History to the subscribers in London and the country, I pushed off to 
 this retirement for a few months, that I might at the distance of ninety- 
 seven miles be out of the way of the conversation that my publication 
 would produce. I was sufficiently tired with composing, transcribing, 
 and publishing ; and did not wish to have my spirits fatigued more with 
 the queries and observations that either malevolence or curiosity might 
 excite. I judged it as needful to give myself a few months relaxation, 
 as to turn out to grass for a season an old horse worn down by a long, 
 36 
 
422 MANNING AND CHAP. X 
 
 tedious journey, that so he might recruit and be fit for a little more service. 
 Here we shall remain, if spared, at the country house of Mrs. Gordon s 
 younger brother, till April or May, when I propose giving a look at Lon 
 don for a few days, on our way to Ipswich in Suffolk, seventy miles from 
 the metropolis, eighteen miles from Colchester, and twelve from Harwich. 
 Here we were first settled and lived thirteen years. Our former people 
 and their successors, like their quondam pastor, were the friends of Amer 
 ica, so that we shall agree in politics as well as religion. They have a 
 great affection for us ; and had there been a vacancy in the pastorate, 
 they would, I have reason to believe, have urged my renewing our former 
 relations. Here and in the neighborhood I shall be likely to preach oc 
 casionally, while abilities admit ; but though I have great reason to adore 
 the goodness of God that I am so well in body and mind, now that I am 
 within nine days of sixty, yet I perceive that they are upon the decline. 
 You will think my eyesight good when you read that I write, as you see, 
 whether by day or candlelight. I was in hope that some ministerial 
 settlement with a small congregation, and a salary that might have made 
 our circumstances more easy, would have offered. But the great Head 
 of the chucli has ordered otherwise, not only with wisdom for the gen 
 eral good, but with mercy for our particular benefit. I do not intend to 
 lie by in a state of lazy indolence, but to apply myself to some kind of 
 service that may be useful to the church and the public, and yield me, 
 with the blessing of God, some advantage to supply present deficiencies. 
 What that should be I have not yet determined, and delay till I get into 
 a habitation of my own, if an earthly one remains designed for me. But 
 I mean it to be of that nature that will not disgrace a D.D., the creature 
 of Princeton College Trustees. Much will depend upon the voice of the 
 public, on both sides of the Atlantic. If the numerous part of impartial- 
 ists will exclaim well done, and call for a second edition of my History, the 
 way will be plain. The profits arising from it will suffice, especially if the 
 heads of American colleges will let me have their orders and their cash 
 for the various books that may be wanted in their seminaries and libraries, 
 which I might be able to supply them with on lower terms than they now 
 have them, by exchanging copies of my work with the booksellers having 
 the copyright of such as are to be furnished. Your friendship will lead 
 you to improve upon this hint ; and mcthinks I am entitled to the coun 
 tenance and aid of the American States, for my past and present attach 
 ment to their freedom and independence, and for the disadvantages the 
 same has subjected me to in my native country. 
 
1789-1791. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 423 
 
 I had finished writing thus far, and taken a breathing-walk into the 
 garden, when yours of September, 1788, was brought to Mrs. Gordon in 
 a parcel. Upon opening the last, I had the pleasure of reading that and 
 another from the same continent. To what it has been owing that so 
 much time has elapsed since that day to the present, before the parcel 
 reached me, I know not ; but better late than never, and lonrj-looked-for is come 
 at last. And now for answers to, and comments upon it. Through divine 
 goodness Mrs. Gordon s hand has been so far restored as to be very ser 
 viceable, though not as formerly. The labors I had been called to while 
 printing, and which had near exhausted me by the time I had finished, 
 led one of my intimate friends to say he was astonished at observing how 
 my spirits had kept up. Relaxation, country air, the severe cold of last 
 winter, and the pleasures of the present spring, have given to them a fresh 
 start ; and I promise myself they will recover their former tone. The 
 produce of America just received from New York and Massachusetts has 
 raised them some degrees above par. When you read the History, I flat 
 ter myself you will pronounce me the friend of the American cause, and 
 that I have pointed out the faults of the United States in divers instances 
 without basting them severely. I can go beyond most of the members of 
 the old superannuated Congress, or even of the new Federal Constitution, 
 and say, I pray daily that the United States of America may be a holy, 
 free, and happy people, which is the way to be lasting. It used to be one 
 of my petitions that good government might be established among them ; 
 but that being answered, I have only to be thankful for it. You will not 
 charge me with having spared Great Britain, when you are convinced 
 how faithfully their cruelties in America are related. Your account of 
 Massachusetts merits confirmation, and I hope will obtain it. The infi 
 nitely wise Governor of the universe often makes great evils the parents of 
 lasting and great benefits. But where did you leave your orthodox divin 
 ity, when you went from Providence to New York, that you should ven 
 ture to declare, that if my native country does not smart in your lifetime 
 for her conduct to the East Indians and Africans, not to say Americans, 
 that so you might see it, you should alter your opinions respecting the 
 divine dispensations toward communities of men in this world ? Me- 
 thinks, Brother Doctor, I have caught you napping. Besides, had the 
 Americans smarted equal to their crimes toward their public and private 
 creditors, the Africans, etc., when you was provoked to leave off glorying 
 in being an American ? 
 
 Our common friend Mr. Rippon will give you fuller and better intelli- 
 
424 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 gence concerning Winchester than I can do. I wish his most influential 
 days may be at an end, unless he goes right about as lie was, to allude to 
 a military phrase. May the college at Providence, and all other colleges 
 where learning, good morals, and Christian piety are encouraged, flourish 
 more and more. And may my friends there continue to enjoy good 
 health. I have desired Mr. Mason to accompany this letter with six sets 
 of my History to you. One is a present to the college ; the other five are 
 for Jabez Bowen, Esq., Messrs. John Brown and Francis Benson, Mr. 
 Nicholas Brown, Mr. Caleb Greene, and Mr. John Jcnckes. I pray you 
 to present my best respects to these gentlemen, to receive the remaining 
 five pounds from them, and to forward the same to Jonathan Mason, Jr., 
 Esq., Boston. If no other way that is more agreeable offers, either of 
 those careful and obliging postriders, Messrs. Mumfords, to whom my 
 respects, I am certain will take a pleasure in serving me by conveying it. 
 It might not perhaps be amiss to hint to them, that if by their peregrin 
 ations they could dispose of twenty -five or fifty sets, I might likely supply 
 them at twenty-five shillings sterling per set, delivered at Boston or Prov 
 idence I remain, dear sir, 
 
 Your very affectionate friend though unworthy brother, 
 
 WILLIAM GORDON. 
 
 The services of Dr. Manning were still, it would seem, 
 in popular demand at this trying period in the history of 
 Rhode Island as a State. From the records of the day, 
 we learn that 
 
 "At an adjourned meeting of the town on Thursday (Aug. 27, 1789), 
 a committee, that had been appointed on Tuesday for the purpose, re 
 ported a draft of a petition to be presented to the Congress of the United 
 States, setting forth the distressed situation of this State, the probability 
 of our soon joining the Union, and praying that vessels belonging to our 
 citizens may be exempted from foreign tonnage, and goods shipped from 
 this State from foreign duties, for such time and under such regulations 
 and restrictions as Congress in their wisdom shall think proper. 
 
 "The petition was unanimously voted ; and after having been signed by 
 the moderator and town clerk, the Rev. Dr. Manning and Benjamin 
 Bourn, Esq., were appointed to proceed to New York and present the 
 same." 
 
1789-1701. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 425 
 
 The committee appointed to draft the petition consisted 
 of Dr. Manning, Benjamin Bourn, Thomas Arnold, Nich 
 olas Brown, Theodore Foster, Welcome Arnold, and John 
 Brown. The petition itself, which was probably drafted 
 by Manning, as chairman of the committee, may be found 
 in Staples s Annals of Providence. 
 
 Dr. Manning, as we have before observed, presided on 
 all Commencement occasions with remarkable dignity and 
 grace. His addresses to the graduating class were espe 
 cially noted for excellent good sense, and were pervaded by 
 a tone of piety and delivered with an eloquence which 
 could hardly fail to produce happy and lasting impressions 
 upon the young men, as they stood before him to receive 
 final words of counsel and love. The only production of 
 this kind that has come down to us, was copied from the 
 original, by the Rev. Isaac Backus, several years after the 
 author s death. It was delivered at the Commencement 
 held Sept. 2, 1789. Among those to whom it was espe 
 cially addressed, we notice the names of Jeremiah Brown 
 Howell, afterwards a member of the United States Senate, 
 and the late James Fenner, for many years the popular 
 and efficient Governor of Rhode Island. Mr. Fenner, it 
 may be added, was the valedictorian of his class. 
 
 PRESIDENT MANNING S CHARGE. 
 
 Having completed your academical course, you now commence mem 
 bers of the great community of the world. Here, while your country 
 offers you a fairer opportunity to display your abilities, and improve to 
 advantage that knowledge which you have acquired, than any age or 
 country ever before presented, it becomes my duty to point you to that 
 line of conduct which will most probably insure your success. 
 
 The narrow limits prescribed by the occasion will allow me to hint at 
 only a few general observations. 
 
 The first attention of a youth stepping forward into life should be to 
 36* 
 
426 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 acquire and preserve a good character. A destitution of this places him 
 beyond the possibility of ever becoming eminent. For, bad as the world 
 is, it has always paid a voluntary tribute to virtue ; and though some 
 vicious men have arisen to a degree of respectability, it will be found, on 
 a nearer view, that they are indebted for that respectability to some virtu 
 ous traits in their character. 
 
 To avail yourselves of this supreme advantage, I cannot recommend 
 to you a subject more important and interesting than the Christian relig 
 ion ; of whose divine Founder it was a favorite maxim, Seek first the king 
 dom of God and his righteousness, and all other things shall be added unto 
 you. 
 
 This divine religion creates principles in the heart of its subjects the 
 most operative, and the best adapted to regulate the life and conduct that 
 can possibly be conceived. This at once portrays in the strongest colors, 
 the state, connections, and claims of man ; and disrobes the world of all its 
 imaginary glory, and presents it in its own fugitive, fading colors, the fash 
 ion of which passeth away, while it inspires that unassuming humility 
 which renders a man less vulnerable by the envenomed shafts of malevo 
 lence ; it moulds the heart into a divine benevolence, and is the purest of 
 that exquisite sensibility which deeply interests itself in the fortunes of 
 others, so that it weeps with those who weep t and rejoices with those who 
 rejoice. 
 
 This divine religion carries forward our thoughts to futurity , contem 
 plates as a reality our dissolution, and that awful approaching judgment 
 in which we must all become a party. It places us in that new eternal 
 world, reaping the fruits of what we have sown in this. In a word, it 
 places us immediately under the eye of God, now the witness of our 
 actions, and soon to be our Judge. 
 
 How operative this divine principle to check the irregularity of the pas 
 sions, and guard against the force of temptations ! How divine a prompter 
 to the discharge of every obligation we are under to God or man ! 
 
 Next to this attention to religion, let me earnestly recommend the form 
 ing betimes the habits of industry. Man was made for employment. All 
 his internal as well as external powers testify to this great truth. To 
 comply with this great dictate of nature is of the utmost importance ; and 
 youth, of all seasons of life, is the fittest for this culture. That is the 
 period to form and give a proper direction to the habits, on the right con 
 stitution of which depends, almost entirely, the happiness of man. 
 
 In selecting a profession, consult the strong bias of natural inclination ; 
 
1789-1791. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 427 
 
 for against this current few if any have made a figure ; and be sure that 
 the object lies within reach of your talents. 
 
 Should the Christian ministry with any of you become an object, re 
 flect on the absurdity of intruding into it while strangers to experimental 
 religion. See that yourselves have been taught of God before you at 
 tempt to teach godliness to others. To place in the professional chairs of 
 our universities the most illiterate of mankind, would be an absurdity by 
 far less glaring than to call an unconverted man to exercise the ministe 
 rial function. This is to expose our holy religion to the scoffs of infidels, 
 and to furnish to their hands the most deadly weapons. I omit to insist 
 on the account such must render in the great, tremendous day ! 
 
 May that wisdom which is from above direct your steps in your jour 
 ney through life ; and may you, after the discharge of the duties of good 
 citizens, men of science and religion, meet the approbation of the Su 
 preme Judge, and reap the harvest of immortal glory in the world above. 
 
 With this devout wish, I bid you farewell. 
 
 The reader will observe how earnestly and forcibly 
 President Manning urges candidates for the ministry to 
 seek first of all the " kingdom of God and his righteous 
 ness." This was in accordance with his usual custom on 
 all Commencement occasions. On this point we may be 
 allowed to quote from Backus, who, in the Abridgment 
 of his Church History, thus writes : " Dr. Manning was a 
 good instructor in human learning, but at every Com 
 mencement he gave a solemn charge to his scholars never 
 to presume to enter into the work of the ministry until 
 they were taught of God, and had reason to conclude that 
 they had experienced a saving change of heart." 
 
 TO THE REV. ABEAHAM BOOTH. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Dec. 25, 1789. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 Your most acceptable favor of July 11, with the package, met me at the 
 Association at Philadelphia the 5th of last month. I thank you for 
 your expressions of kindness towards me, and your wishes for my useful- 
 
428 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 ness. Indeed, I cannot but consider myself as a very barren tree in my 
 Lord s vineyard. 
 
 The paragraph respecting Dobson s republishing your Pedobaptism I 
 showed to the Association, and queried with them whether your painful 
 labors and extensive services to the Baptist cause, in that publication, did 
 not entitle you to our assistance on this side of the Atlantic, by aiding in 
 the sale of the book. They agreed they did ; but as Mr. Dobson had 
 circulated proposals, they doubted the propriety of taking the matter up 
 till Dobson had given up the design. Thus it remains. 
 
 It seems Mr. Williams has rallied his forces and attacked you. I am 
 glad, however, to find that you are not panic-struck at the onset. In 
 deed, I think you have taken a ground too strong to be easily dislodged. 
 Wo should be gratified with a sight of his piece. If the Pedobaptists, in 
 general, think it masterly, we doubtless shall soon see it in America. 
 The strength of the advocates of that tenet is to sit still. It is too late in 
 the day for them to avail themselves, in this age of inquiry, of those plau 
 sible colorings which formerly passed very well for solid arguments. 
 At best, if observation has not deceived me, this is the fact with respect to 
 America. 
 
 Your Essay on the Kingdom of Christ met a most hearty welcome, and 
 its author has my wannest thanks. It was a subject which had employed 
 my thoughts at intervals for several years, and I was almost determined 
 to have committed them to paper, with a design to publish them. I am 
 happy that I had only thought of doing it, as the subject has fallen into 
 much abler hands. I am most heartily pleased with it, and think it lays 
 the axe to the root of that wide-spreading tree, infant-baptism and infant 
 church membership. 
 
 Your portrait of Winchester is so exactly to the life that all his ac 
 quaintance must see the man in it. The Baptist society still increases in 
 the Southern States, especially in Virginia, and I may add the Middle 
 States also, especially New York. Mr. Jonathan Maxcy, our youngest 
 tutor in the college, a youth of genius and no small degree of literature 
 for his age, about twenty-one years old, has lately found Christ, and fol 
 lowed his Lord into the watery grave. There is another youth under 
 serious impressions, and more appearance of attention to divine tilings 
 in the college than for some years past. Our second tutor, Mr. Abel 
 Flint, a young Congregationalist preacher, has turned his attention to the 
 subject of baptism for some weeks past, and your Pedobaptism Exam- 
 
1789-1791. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 429 
 
 ined has been his almost constant companion. He told me, some days 
 since, that if that tenet could not be supported from Abraham s covenant, 
 it must fall. If I was as well satisfied of his being a subject of divine 
 grace as I am that Maxcy is, I should think him no small acquisition. 
 May God grant him grace and guide him into all truth! Our num 
 ber of students lacks but two of seventy. 
 
 Yours, etc. 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 FROM THE KEV. DK. EVANS. 
 
 BRISTOL, Feb. 22, 1790. 
 DEAR SIR: 
 
 The literary degree with which the respectable Society over which you 
 preside have thought proper to honor me, I duly received, accompanied 
 with your truly friendly letter, for which I beg you to accept my best 
 thanks. I rely upon you, sir, to make known my acknowledgments to 
 the other members of the college for this mark of distinction and favor, 
 and to assure them that it will always give me peculiar pleasure to pro 
 mote the prosperity of so useful and honorable an institution. 
 
 I received from King s College, Aberdeen, the same honor, before the 
 degree from America was announced here, so that I consider myself under 
 double obligations to take care that I do nothing to discredit the title 
 which has been so honorably conferred upon me by two such respectable 
 bodies. I not only did not seek this honor, but I ought to decline it ; but 
 as it has been so generously decreed me, I think it my duty to receive and 
 improve it as a motive to activity and zeal in the sphere in which Provi 
 dence has placed me. 
 
 We are clogged here with test laws, and in vain struggling to get rid 
 of them. You know no such shackles. And yet you know what it is to 
 have bad men disappoint the desires of the good, and outnumber them in 
 their best-intentioned projects. 
 
 Does not the French Revolution astonish you 1 It astonishes and de 
 lights me beyond measure. But our great folks here dislike it exceed 
 ingly. The counsel of the Lord, however, shall stand, and he will do all 
 his pleasure. 
 
 I am astonished at the resolve of your Association about rebaptizing, 
 but refer you to a letter of Mr. Booth s upon the subject, I believe to you. 
 Surely you are more narrow than the Papists upon this subject. 
 
 I congratulate you upon the increase of your college and church, and 
 
430 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 the rising state of the Baptist interest. We go on as usual, are well at 
 tended, but have few additions. The love of many waxeth cold. We 
 have great reason to cry mightily to Him with whom is the residue of the 
 Spirit. 
 
 The young man I wrote to you about is in too bad a state of health to 
 
 think of a voyage to America. I rejoice you have rooted out , 
 
 that pest of society, a truly filthy, infamous fellow ; but I know not how 
 to refrain asking, How came you ever to admit him, without the least 
 testimonial to his character 1 
 
 But I am obliged abruptly to break off, only begging to be favored with 
 a line whenever opportunity offers, and that you would believe I truly am 
 Your affectionate and obliged friend and brother, 
 
 CALEB EVANS. 
 
 FKOM THE KEY. ABRAHAM BOOTH. 
 
 LONDON, Feb. 25, 1790. 
 DEAR SIR: 
 
 Your letter by favor of Mr. Mullet came safe to hand about a fortnight 
 ago. So far from being wearied by your circumstantial account of the con 
 duct of , I think myself much obliged to you for it. Unhappy man ! 
 
 I fear he is hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. May the Lord have 
 mercy on him, and give him repentance. 
 
 I am very much obliged to you for your generous concern on my behalf 
 respecting the sale of the second edition of my Pedobaptism Examined. 
 That the composing of it required much labor, that I laid out no small 
 sum of money in purchasing books, especially on the popish controversy, 
 with a view to the new impression, and that I am much more likely to 
 lose by it than to gain anything, are facts ; but I am of opinion that, after 
 Dr. Dobson had received encouragement to publish proposals for the re 
 printing of it, my brethren in America could not with honor desert him, 
 while he continues his design in reference to that affair. 
 
 It gives me pleasure to find that my Essay on the Kingdom of Christ 
 meets with your approbation. The subject is undoubtedly of great im 
 portance, and I sincerely pray that the Lord may bless the pamphlet to 
 the promoting of that spiritual kingdom. The first volume of Mr. Rob 
 inson s History of the Baptists has been in the press for these five or six 
 months, but it is not yet published. That volume, indeed, is to contain a 
 history of baptism, and three more volumes that are to follow, a history of 
 the Baptists. A great extent of reading, much wit, and many curious 
 
1789-1791. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 431 
 
 anecdotes, may be expected to appear in the work whenever it comes out; 
 but I have my fears that it will, on the whole, be of no great utility to the 
 real cause of Jesus Christ. The author is now known to have adopted 
 Dr. Priestley s system in general ; but he is justly considered as far infe 
 rior to the Doctor in respect of candor and of integrity. Dr. Priestley 
 speaks out ; you know what he means. Not so the other gentleman. I 
 have often thought that if it had not been for his uncommon share of wit, 
 he would befoi e now have sunk into universal contempt among serious 
 people ; and he is, indeed, much sunk of late in the estimation of num 
 bers. I have been lately well informed that Dr. Priestley considers him 
 as doing no honor to any cause. This you will observe, however, is inter 
 nos. 
 
 The beginning of January last I received a letter from Dr. Samuel 
 Jones, of Lower Dublin, respecting the validity of baptism administered by 
 immersion and on a profession of faith, by an itnbaptized that is, Pcdobap- 
 tist minister ; on which question he desired my opinion. I have given it, 
 in a very long letter enclosed in one to Dr. Stillman of Boston. I have 
 sent it unsealed, that Dr. Stillman might have an opportunity of perusing 
 it before he sent it off to Dr. Jones. I am very sorry that I was obliged, 
 in opposition to the determination of the Association at Philadelphia, to 
 take the affirmative of the question ; that is, 1 think such baptism, though 
 irregular, valid. If you should by any means have a sight of that letter, 
 I should he glad to know your thoughts on the argument contained in it. 
 I have expressed my views of the subject with the utmost freedom, and I 
 trust without giving any cause of offence to the Doctor. 
 
 My respects, if you have opportunity, to Dr. Drowne. I earnestly pray 
 that the Lord may cause his. truth to prosper all around you, as I am glad 
 to hear it does in Virginia. Winchester seems to be losing ground pretty 
 fast ; for some of his principal admirers have turned their backs upon 
 him, and have renounced his notion of universal restitution, of which they 
 were once extremely fond. Shall be glad to hear from you at any time 
 when an opportunity presents. The Lord be with you in all your depart 
 ments of labor and in all your connections. I remain, dear sir, 
 Your unworthy brother, 
 
 A. BOOTH. 
 
432 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 TO THE REV. Dll. SMITH. 
 
 PROVIDENCE,. .20th April, 1790. 
 DEAR BROTHER : 
 
 I snatch a moment to inform you that the good work still continues, 
 and I think has been gradually increasing amongst us since you left. 
 Last Lord s Day I baptized two, and a third was prevented by indisposi 
 tion of body. Two profess to have met with a change the last of last 
 week. Several profess to have received comfort, but are not fully satis 
 fied. I believe that there are from fifty to one hundred under serious im 
 pressions ; and they crowd the evening meetings whenever and wherever 
 they are appointed. Numbers come to my house to converse with me 
 
 about their souls. Many of Dr. H k s people attend the evening 
 
 meetings, of whom several appear seriously impressed. Some people, 
 you will naturally guess, do not like this, and look rather shy. Poor Mr. 
 Flint has come to a point, and must be a Baptist, notwithstanding the 
 reproaches he has to endure ; but he has not full satisfaction about his own 
 state. He is amazingly engaged for the persons under awakening, and 
 attends meetings whenever he can. He has been sick, but is recovered. 
 Mr. Maxcy has been called and licensed, but has been at home some 
 time, much indisposed. He is now very ill with the measles. He 
 preaches to admiration. Several of the students are also down with the 
 measles, and others have had them. Not a few of the students are under 
 serious impressions. Many of the people here are often wishing to see 
 Mr. Smith again ; and, for your encouragement, I can inform you that 
 many profess to have been first awakened by your labors amongst us. 
 No account has yet been received from Dr. Gano, and I expect to go for 
 Jersey the beginning of May. The people really lament and mourn at the 
 thought of being left destitute. What think you of coming and making 
 another visit to Providence the beginning of next month ? I believe this 
 would diffuse a general joy through both church and society. You will find 
 work enough to employ you day and night. I heartily wish you could 
 come, but I have not had an opportunity of speaking to the committee on 
 the subject. I expect they would embrace this opportunity of writing 
 you if they knew of this opportunity to send to Boston, more especially 
 if they had not sanguine hopes that Dr. Gano would soon be here ; but 
 I really fear some disaster has happened to him. If my wishes could 
 bring you to Providence, you would soon be here. Attleboro is visited, 
 and several other places. Mrs. Manning joins in love to you and lady, 
 
 with, dear sir, yours, etc., 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
1789-1791. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 433 
 
 On Monday, May 24, of this year, the final State conven 
 tion on the Federal Constitution was held at Newport. 
 On Thursday the body adjourned, for more ample ac 
 commodations, from the State House to the Second Bap 
 tist Church, where for three days the great debate between 
 the contending parties was continued. At five o clock on 
 Saturday afternoon the final vote was taken. Thirty-four 
 members voted to adopt the Constitution, and thirty-two 
 voted in the negative. Thus a majority of two votes saved 
 the people of Rhode Island from anarchy, and the State 
 from dismemberment. 
 
 The news reached Providence before midnight, and was 
 announced by the ringing of bells and the booming of can 
 non. The next day the returning delegates were received 
 with a national salute of thirteen guns. Again, says Sta 
 ples in his Annals, " patriotism encroached on piety, as 
 when the vote for calling the convention passed in the 
 preceding January, and the stillness of the Sabbath morn 
 ing was broken by the joyful roar of artillery." 
 
 In about two months after this event, on Tuesday, Au 
 gust 17, President Washington with his suite, accompa 
 nied by Gov. Clinton of New York, Thomas Jefferson, Esq., 
 Secretary of State, and several members of Congress, made 
 his first visit to Providence. A large procession was 
 formed to escort them from the packet in which they 
 arrived, and the occasion was made a gala-day throughout 
 the town. In the evening, says the Gazette, " the Presi 
 dent and many others took a walk on the college green, to 
 view the illumination of the building by the students, 
 which made a most splendid appearance." 
 
 On Thursday, the 19th, the President and his suite were 
 escorted to the college by the students, and by Dr. Man- 
 37 
 
434 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 ning introduced to the Library and Museum, where in be 
 half of the corporation he thus addressed him : 
 
 SIR : Though among the last to congratulate you on your advance 
 ment to that dignified and important station to which the unanimous voice 
 of a grateful country has called you, the corporation of Rhode Island 
 College claim to be among the first in warmth of affection for your per 
 son, and in esteem for your public character. In placing you at the head 
 of the United States, regard was had no less to the influence of your ex 
 ample over the morals of the people than to your talents in the adminis 
 tration of government. Happy are we to observe, that similar motives 
 have influenced your conduct in filling the lower offices in the executive 
 department. We must devoutly venerate that superintending Providence 
 which, in the course of events propitious to this country, has called you 
 forth to establish, after having defended, our rights and liberties. 
 
 Agitated in the hour of doubtful conflict, exulting in your victories, we 
 watched your footsteps with the most anxious solicitude. Our fervent 
 supplications to Heaven, that you might be furnished with that wisdom 
 and prudence necessary to guide us to freedom and independence, have 
 been heard and most graciously answered. 
 
 For the preservation of this freedom, one great object still demands our 
 peculiar attention, the education of our youth. Your sentiments, sir, 
 on this subject, "that knowledge is in every country the surest public basis 
 of happiness," and the strongest barrier against the intruding hand of des 
 potism, as they most perfectly accord with those of the most celebrated 
 characters that ever adorned human nature, so they leave no room to ap 
 prehend you will refuse the wreath with which the guardians of literature 
 here would entwine your brow. 
 
 By restoring your health, and protracting your life so dear to this coun 
 try, Divine Providence has, in a late instance, furnished to millions matter 
 of thanksgiving and praise. 
 
 That you may long remain on earth, a blessing to mankind, and the 
 support of your country, that you may afterwards receive the rewards of 
 virtue, by having the approbation of God, is our most sincere desire 
 and fervent supplication. 
 
 This address, which had been formally adopted by the 
 corporation, at a special meeting held in the State House, 
 August 17, was duly presented to the President, signed 
 
1780-1791. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 435 
 
 by Jabez Boweii, Chancellor; James Manning, President; 
 and David Howell, Secretary. To Manning s address in 
 behalf of the corporation, President Washington thus re 
 plied : 
 
 To THE CORPORATION or RHODE ISLAND COLLEGE : 
 
 GENTLEMEN : The circumstances which have until this time prevented 
 you from offering your congratulations on my advancement to the station 
 I hold in the government of the United States, do not diminish the pleas 
 ure I feel in receiving this flattering proof of your affection and esteem, 
 for which I request you will accept my thanks. 
 
 In repeating thus publicly my sense of the zeal yon displayed for the 
 success of the cause of your country, I only add a single suffrage to the 
 general testimony which all, who were acquainted with you in the most 
 adverse and doubtful moments of our struggle for liberty and indepen 
 dence, have constantly borne in your favor. 
 
 While I cannot remain insensible to the indulgence with which you re 
 gard the influence of my example and the tenor of my conduct, I rejoice in 
 having so favorable an opportunity of felicitating the State of Rhode Isl 
 and on the cooperation I am sure to find in the measures adopted by the 
 guardians of literature in this place, for improving the morals of the rising 
 generation, and inculcating upon their minds principles peculiarly calcu 
 lated for the preservation of our rights and liberties. You may rely on 
 whatever protection I may be able to afford in so important an object as 
 the education of our youth . 
 
 I will now conclude, gentlemen, by expressing my acknowledgments 
 for the tender manner in which you mention the restoration of my health 
 in a late occasion, and with ardent wishes that Heaven may prosper the 
 literary institution under your care, in giving you the best of its blessings 
 in this world, as well as in the world to come. 
 
 At the Commencement this year twenty-two young 
 gentlemen took their first degree, being the largest num 
 ber that had ever graduated at one time since the college 
 was founded. Among them was Moses Brown, youngest 
 son of Nicholas Brown, a bright and promising youth, who 
 a few months later, just as he had entered upon his six- 
 
436 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 teenth year, was seized with a disorder which suddenly 
 put an end to his life. In this class also graduated the 
 third President of Brown University, Asa Messer, of whom 
 we have given a sketch in the preceding chapter. At 
 the close of the exercises, the degree of Doctor of Laws 
 was conferred on George Washington, 1 President of the 
 United States of America. This was the last Commence 
 ment at which Dr. Manning presided. 
 
 TO THE REV. DE. SMITH. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, 18th Nov., 1790. 
 DEAR BROTHER : 
 
 Yours of the 25th ult. is before me. The tide of business which, on 
 my return home, flowed in upon me, prevented my recollecting the case 
 of Mr. Messer. But in my journey to the West I had him constantly in 
 view, but found no opening which I thought worthy his attention. Mr. 
 Eead, from Virginia, has not returned, nor have I had any intelligence 
 from him respecting a chance for teaching ; so that I cannot at present 
 give any encouragement from this quarter, as it was the general opinion 
 that it would be imprudent for him, all things considered, to take a place 
 
 1 In reference to this we find the following pleasant anecdote in Rippon s Bap 
 tist Register : 
 
 " In a conversation between several friendly gentlemen (in London) some time 
 since, which turned chiefly on the confinement of Lewis the Little, who, like an 
 absolute sovereign, had said to five and twenty millions of people, I will be obey ed, 
 contrasted with the popularity of Washington the Great, it was mentioned 
 that the Baptist College in Rhode Island had conferred the degree of Doctor of 
 Laws on the President of the United States. While it seemed to be the general 
 mind that this distinguished character in the history of man wouid prefer the lau 
 rels of a college to a crown of despotism, one of the company, it is said, quite 
 impromptu, gave vent to the feelings of his heart in the following effusion : 
 
 When kings are mere sovereigns, or tyrants, or tools, 
 No wonder the people should treat them as fools; 
 But Washington, therefore, presides with applause. 
 Because he well merits the Doctor of Laws. 
 I ll ne er be a ruler till I m LL. D., 
 Nor England nor Scotland shall send it to me; 
 I ll have my diploma from Providence Hall, 
 For Washington had, or I ll have none at all. " 
 
1789-1791. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 437 
 
 in college, till the present Senior Class are out of the way. We have ap 
 pointed a Mr. Lyndon Arnold to that office for the present, who has no 
 thoughts of continuing more than a year. If Mr. Mcsser should not fall 
 into better business by that time, it would be very agreeable to me to have 
 him for an assistant ; and sooner, should Tutor Maxcy leave us, which he 
 talks of, though I shall reluctantly agree to it. He has with great { er- 
 suasion consented to supply the pulpit for six months, and does it to 
 great acceptance. He has many hearers, and his labors appear to be 
 owned. He improves amazingly. The good work still prevails, and 
 the prospect is as promising at present as at any period past. Our dear 
 friend Mr. Jenckes appears almost gone. It is not likely that he will 
 stay with us many weeks. Nicholas Brown is in a very poor way, but 
 yet goes out. I fear his disorder is radical and will prove fatal. 
 
 Your son s standing shall remain as it has done. The instances of 
 Catholicism amongst the Presbyterians are, their opening their houses of 
 worship to the Baptists, and nocking to hear them, at Brunswick, Wood- 
 bridge, Elizabethtown, Newark, etc. The Association of Danbury con 
 sists of thirteen churches, and there are, probably as many more in that 
 quarter which will join them. There has been a great increase of the Bap 
 tists in the western part of Connecticut and in the lower part of York State 
 of late. I suppose Mr. Flint has concluded to commence a preacher 
 among the Congregationalists, and I conclude is about to accept a call to 
 the South Parish in Hartford. Either the cross was too heavy to com 
 mence a Baptist, or he had little reason to expect that he should be called 
 to the work among us, unless he could give better evidence of a change 
 of heart ; or probably something of both had weight in his determination. 
 I have said nothing to him on the subject lately, as I was convinced of 
 the strong bias he had for preaching at all events. I suppose he has been 
 borne down with a torrent of influence from Pedobaptist connections. 
 
 By a letter from Mr. E. Bobbins I hear that the two churches in York 
 are very happy together. I wish this feeling may continue and increase. 
 The day appointed for Mr. Baldwin s instalment I attended the ordina 
 tion of Mr. Ebenezer . The letter from the Boston church did 
 
 not reach me until late in the evening of the preceding Lord s Day, so 
 that it was out of my power either to come or send them word. I hope 
 you had a comfortable season. Our friend Mr. Sutton is settled nearly 
 in the centre of Kentucky, and, I believe, in regard to worldly prospects, 
 is more happy than ever he was, though he has not the charge of a church, 
 37* 
 
438 M A N X I X G AND CHAP. X. 
 
 as there are four ordained ciders in that to which he belongs. He has 
 purchased two hundred acres of good land, has enough cleared to raise 
 his bread, which his sons manage, together with carrying on a considera 
 ble share of the hatter s business. This leaves him at leisure to travel, 
 as he has lost his wife ; and among other journeys, he contemplates one 
 to New England, to visit once more all his friends in this quarter. With 
 best respects to you, lady, and family, with all friends, in which Mrs. 
 
 Manning joins, 
 
 I remain, as ever, 
 
 JAMES MANNING. 
 
 Mr. Flint, to whom Manning here refers, was ordained 
 as a pastor of the Second Congregational Church in Hart 
 ford, on Wednesday, April 20, 1791. The Rev. Dr. Strong 
 of Hartford made the introductory prayer, the Rev. Dr. 
 Hitchcock of Providence preached the sermon, the Rev. 
 Dr. Goodrich of Durham gave the charge, the Rev. Na 
 than Perkins of Hartford gave the right hand of fellow 
 ship, and the Rev. David Macclure of East Windsor made 
 the concluding prayer. 
 
 FROM THE REV. ABRAHAM BOOTH. 
 
 LONDON, April 1, 1791. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 It being more than twelve months since I wrote you a letter, I have 
 been much disappointed in not having had the pleasure of hearing from 
 you. At the same" time I sent a very long letter to Dr. Samuel Jones, in 
 answer to one I received from. him, relative to the propriety of baptizing 
 such persons as had been solemnly immersed on a profession of faith by 
 a Pedobaptist minister, both of which I enclosed in a packet to Dr. 
 Stillman at Boston ; but, to my great surprise, I have not received a line 
 from America since. The name of the captain (nor yet of his ship) by 
 whom the little packet was sent, I do not now recollect, but should be 
 very sorry to learn that the letter never came to hand. 
 
 It is probable that you have heard, ere now, of the death of Mr. E. 
 Robinson, of Cambridge. He died the last summer, a little before his 
 History of Baptism was finished at the press ; by which book it appears 
 he was a thorough-faced Socinian at the time of his decease. He died in 
 the neighborhood of Birmingham, at the house of a gentleman belonging 
 
1789-1791. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 439 
 
 to Dr. Priestley s community, after having preached at the Doctor s 
 meeting-house the Lord s Day before ; was buried at the Doctor s bury- 
 ing-ground (he at least spoke at the grave) at the expense of the Doctor s 
 people, and the Doctor preached and published a funeral sermon for him ; 
 a sermon contemptible as to its composition, and detestable as to the sen 
 timents contained in it. Some of the sentiments, in my view, are an in 
 sult, not only on the Scriptures but on common sense, except the latter 
 be debauched by vain philosophy. Mr. Robinson s History of Baptism 
 you may probably have seen before now. It seems to me to be a work 
 of both labor and learning. It contains various particulars, in opposition 
 to infant-sprinkling, that are both new and pertinent ; but there is much 
 extraneous matter ; there are many indications of rank Socinianism ; 
 various detestably fanciful interpretations of passages in the Old Testa 
 ment ; and such marks of enmity against the character of Augustinus as 
 I did not expect. We have very lately lost by death that worthy Baptist 
 minister, Mr. Robert Hall, of Amsby, in Leicestershire. He is, I doubt 
 not, now with God, and his memory is much respected. 
 
 Socinianism is, I fear, still gaining ground in England, especially in the 
 national Establishment ; and several of our young Baptist ministers have, 
 within these two or three years, adopted that pernicious system of error 
 and of blasphemy. But our divine Jesus lives and reigns, to govern the 
 world and to take care of his own cause. 
 
 I hear but little of Mr. Winchester of late, and have never seen him. 
 I urn inclined to think, however, that his corrupt principles lose rather 
 than gain ground in this metropolis. 
 
 Hope you will indulge me with a letter as soon as you can after you 
 receive this ; and that, among other things, you will inform me whether 
 my Pedobaptism Examined be yet republished. I have been informed 
 that proposals for publishing by subscription my Essay on the Kingdom 
 of Christ, have appeared at Philadelphia. I was a little surprised to 
 hear of republishing, by subscription, so small a piece, nothing of that 
 kind being issued here. 
 
 It has been and now is a sickly time among my people. Three of the 
 members of the church under my imperfect pastoral care have departed 
 out of life since the present year came in, and another of them is on 
 the verge of the grave, by the envenomed tooth of a devouring cancer. 
 The Lord grant that we may be prepared for his whole will concerning 
 us. Oh for more genuine spiritual-mindedness ! 
 And now, sir, I most affectionately commend you to God, and to the 
 
440 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 word of his grace, earnestly praying that peace and prosperity may at 
 tend you and yours and all the churches of Christ. I remain, dear sir, 
 Your unworthy brother in the gospel of Jesus Christ, 
 
 A. BOOTH. 
 
 FKOM THE KEY. DR. HIPPOS, OF LONDON. 
 REVEREND AND DEAR SIR : 
 
 Last evening Capt. Mesnard delivered me his letters from New York, 
 and to-morrow the Eagle sails, so that I have but a few minutes for each 
 letter. 
 
 The Register is taking a prodigious spread through almost all our 
 churches, the country friends themselves ordering from fifteen to one hun 
 dred copies for each church. I feel myself honored in seeing your name 
 among the brethren who encourage the design. I refer now to the adver 
 tisement in the Philadelphia Association letter. I had hoped that I 
 might have received your painting by Capt. Mesnard, but I must now 
 beseech you to forward it by the veryjirst safe conveyance, informing me 
 at what age it was done. Dr. Evans is beautifully engraved, and so is 
 Providence meeting-house, from a copy in the Massachusetts Magazine 
 for August, 1789. No part of the Magazine have I seen besides. The 
 account of the Providence church cannot, I suspect, be brought into the 
 Eirst Part of the Register, though, on account of its early date, it should 
 be one of the first societies under Article the 8th, where it stands. I 
 would not so soon have advertised its insertion, had I not known it would 
 have afforded great pleasure to many of our English brethren ; though, by 
 the way, some of them are astonished at the STEEPLE ! I was the more 
 unwilling to bring this article forward so early, because I was unac 
 quainted with your opinion of the narrative. It came here to a friend of 
 John Stanford, said to have been written by him and approved by the 
 church. Of course you have seen it. No one in the city but myself and 
 the family to whom it was sent know that Stanford had any hand in it ; 
 and his name must be entirely kept out of sight in this country. If I in 
 troduce the account of the church in the Second Part of the Register, with 
 your corrections, I dare not go any further than 1787, unless you will 
 give the narrative such a finish that the close may introduce your present 
 condition. Mr. Foster informs me that Mr. Maxcy (named in your for 
 mer letter) has engaged to supply Providence one year. I beg to be af 
 fectionately remembered to him. I never had any correspondence with 
 Mr. ; am sorry to find he did not behave well at Providence. 
 
1789-1791. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 441 
 
 The happiness of the American churches lies near my heart. I aee my 
 brethren have too much neglected them. There is not public spirit enough 
 in this country ; but I have hinted by this conveyance to two friends, 
 that the Register is intended to serve the American brethren particularly. 
 I am sure when we have larger accounts of Kentucky, well authenticated, 
 the design you proposed a few months since can naturally be brought for 
 ward ; and I have laid some foundation already for its success. This I 
 have mentioned to no American but yourself. 
 
 I find Mr. Wesley s people are aiming to have a new college in Amer 
 ica (vide Dr. Coke s Missions). I wish I had a good drawing or engrav 
 ing of your college edifice, and a history of the college. I have the 
 printed charter ; wish for a proof of the old seal, with the explanations 
 thereof. Would you favor me with the history 1 ? Dr. Evans has offered 
 an account of the Bristol Academy. If you are too busy, could not Dr. 
 Drowne draw it up 1 I wish I could see Mr. Maxcy s handwriting. I 
 have a copy of Eobinson s History of Baptism for your acceptance. Hope 
 to send it next month, with an article ordered by Dr. Drowne. My re 
 spects to him. My Christian love to your good lady. 
 
 I remain, affectionately and truly, yours, 
 
 JOHN RIPPON. 
 
 p. g. i d are no t dictate, but if the Register meets the approbation of 
 the American brethren, perhaps each Association would say what num 
 ber they would certainly take, and appoint the clerk, or some other 
 brother, to convey materials for me to Boston, Philadelphia, or New 
 York, from time to time. 
 
 In December of this year, Dr. Manning addressed a letter 
 to the Rev. William. Richards, LL. D., of Lynn, England, 
 to which Mr. Richards thus replies. The letter, it may be 
 added, did not reach Providence until nearly four months 
 after Manning had passed from the scenes of his earthly 
 labors. 
 
 LYNN, IN NORFOLK, OLD ENGLAND, June 6, 1791. 
 MY DEAR SIR : 
 
 Embracing an opportunity which has suddenly and unexpectedly pre 
 sented itself, of sending to America a packet by a private hand, I can do 
 little more than just to acknowledge the receipt of your kind letter of the 
 
442 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 fifteenth of December, which made its way here about the middle of last 
 month, via Liverpool and Birmingham. I sincerely thank you, sir, for 
 this favor ; and I rejoice exceedingly in the prospect which your letter 
 exhibits of the growing greatness and the increasing felicity .and prosper 
 ity of America. I have long been partial to that country, and at a very 
 early period of my life (sixteen or seventeen years ago) was on the point 
 of removing from Britain thither. The war deterred me then, and for 
 some years after, from accomplishing my purpose ; and having been set 
 tled in this place some years when the peace took place, I found it rather 
 inconvenient then to quit the country. Should I live a few years longer, 
 it is still probable that I shall remove, but it is most likely that that re 
 moval will be to Wales and not to America. I am and have always been 
 very much attached to my dear native country ; but I should like it much 
 better were it connected with the United States, than as it is, a branch of 
 the corrupt British empire. 
 
 As to the issue of my late controversy with Mr. Carter, my last piece, 
 The History of Antichrist, brought it to its conclusion. I have never seen 
 my opponent since, but he has repeatedly sent me his friendly compli 
 ments, and invited me to call upon him whenever I should pass through 
 his neighborhood, but it has not suited me to pay him a visit yet. Our 
 Independent brethren have treated their poor Baptist neighbors somewhat 
 more civilly since this controversy took place than they were wont to do. 
 In these counties of Norfolk and Suffolk they are a very powerful body. 
 That party, sir, as I suppose you know, originated here, and have con 
 tinued here ever since, as numerous and respectable as in any part of 
 Britain. Their ministers are in general men of considerable abilities and 
 learning, while the Baptist ministers, on the contrary, are possessed of but 
 a moderate share of either. The former seemed conscious of their supe 
 riority, and in general affected to treat the latter with the most manifest 
 contempt. In short, sir, I am the first of the Particular Baptists, and 
 even of the Baptist denomination, who has had the temerity to accept a 
 challenge from or to enter the lists with a Norfolk or Suffolk Indepen 
 dent. I hope the adventure was not altogether useless to the Baptist 
 cause. The Independents have never since discovered the least disposi 
 tion to oppose us again in print ; and it is the general opinion that it 
 will be long before they will attempt to provoke the Baptists into another 
 paper war. Many of them were convinced, during the debate, that the 
 Pedobaptist scheme was not tenable, and they of course joined us ; and 
 not one was known to be confirmed, in the mean time, in that scheme. 
 
1789-1791. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 443 
 
 Since the conclusion of this dispute, I have been called, by the unani 
 mous voice of the Welsh Baptists, to engage in another of a similar na 
 ture with the Presbyterians and Independents of the Principality, who had 
 just then broken the peace by violently attacking their principles, and who 
 were likewise strongly supported by the Whitefieldites, a very numer 
 ous body in that country. The person intrusted by them with the direc 
 tion of this war is a Mr, Benjamin Evans, a very popular minister in 
 Cardiganshire, very dexterous and very obstinate in debate, and a perfect 
 adept in the sophist and the quibbler s trade. He has already published 
 three pieces, and I am now about beginning my third piece in reply. What 
 will be the issue of this war must be left for time to determine. My op 
 ponent, by the vigor and violence of his exertions, and frequent rallyings 
 and renewals of the combat, seems to think that he has a great deal at 
 stake. He, too, and his brethren, took it for granted that he was greatly 
 superior to any that the Baptists could call out to oppose them in the 
 Welsh language. God grant that the truth may not, in this hard strug 
 gle, be anywise dishonored by its very unworthy advocate. 
 
 Report says that this controversy has already been productive of some 
 very pleasing and happy effects, and that the Baptist interest is likely to 
 be considerably benefited by it. I sent a copy of my first Welsh tract to 
 your good Brother Dr. Samuel Jones, and had you known the language I 
 should have been very happy to have presented you with another, and 
 submitted it to your examination. I deem these much superior to my 
 English pieces. They cost me much more thought, and I bestowed much 
 more pains upon them every way. 
 
 Some suppose that the piece I have now on hand will be the last of this 
 controversy, but that seems to me rather doubtful. I almost think that 
 some things I shall advance this time will provoke some kind of a reply. 
 Nor am I at all anxious about that matter, so long as our countrymen 
 continue to give us a patient and attentive hearing. I am willing to give 
 my labor, and my Welsh brethren seem at present as willing to be at the 
 expense of printing what I write. 
 
 The Baptists are very numerous and greatly on the increase in Wales. 
 Some churches there are the largest we have in Britain. That of Lanj- 
 loffan, in Pembrokeshire, which is the largest of all, consists of between 
 eight hundred and nine hundred members. The great increase of the 
 Welsh Baptists is seemingly what provoked their Pedobaptist brethren 
 to commence this quarrel with them. I hope they will not in the end 
 have any cause to triumph over us. 
 
444 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 I have had some thoughts of writing the Life of Roger Williams. 
 Could you, sir, tell me where he was born, or add any materials towards 
 his history, over and above what Mr. Backus s history contains "? I have 
 some of his works which Mr. Backus never saw. He is with me, in sev 
 eral respects, a favorite character. 
 
 I am sorry to hear of the smallness of your fund, and of your pecuni 
 ary difficulties at the college. I wish the British Baptists would take your 
 case under consideration, and afford you some effectual aid. They ought 
 to do so, I think ; and yet I am afraid it will not be an easy matter to per 
 suade them to it, unless some of the Londoners, and other opulent Bap 
 tists, were to take it up. 
 
 I thought your library was more considerable, and am sorry to find it 
 is not. The Bristol Library is now a very capital one by the addition of 
 the collections of Drs. GifFord and Llewelyn, and especially the latter, 
 which was a very excellent one. I wish some others in this country 
 would bequeath their collections to your college. I have myself near fif 
 teen hundred volumes, some of them of value. But a man in my situa 
 tion, in very moderate circumstances, and with a very small salary from 
 the congregation, and having withal an aged mother to provide for, a 
 man in such a situation, I say, must make no resolution in matters of this 
 kind. Perhaps my circumstances when I die may not admit of my dis 
 posing of my books as I might have wished. Therefore please to keep 
 this hint to yourself. Now, my dear sir, I must take my leave. May 
 every blessing attend you, is the earnest wish and prayer of 
 
 Your sincere, affectionate, and faithful friend, brother and servant, 
 
 W. RICHARDS. 
 
 P. S. Is there any truth, sir, in the reports, which our public papers 
 daily circulate in this country, of very dreadful ravages committed by the 
 natives among your people about Kentucky and other back-settlements ? 
 I suspect it is only a contrivance of our Government for the purpose of 
 checking the progress of emigration, and to persuade the good people of 
 Britain that thei*e is not so blessed a country anywhere as their own. Our 
 papers are in like manner stuffed with falsehoods relating to the state of 
 things in France, and the proceedings of the National Assembly. These 
 tricks will not always serve their purpose. 
 
 I received a letter lately from Mr. Curtis, son-in-law to the late Mr. 
 Robinson. The second volume of Mr. Robinson s long-expected work is 
 now in the press. It is not intended to print any more than seven hun- 
 
1789-1791. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 445 
 
 dred and fifty copies of it, so that I suppose it will soon become scarce. 
 It was the author s design to have called it the First Volume of the His 
 tory of the Baptists ; but as he did not live to complete his plan, or to 
 finish any more than this volume of it, it is, by the advice of Dr. Abra 
 ham Rees, to be entitled Ecclesiastical Researches. I am sorry to learn 
 that there are still near four hundred copies of the History of Baptism 
 unsold. 
 
 Dear sir, pray pardon the intolerable length and blunders of this scrawl. 
 When I began, I little thought I should scribble half so much, nor indeed 
 did I expect that the opportunity would permit me to do so, as I thought 
 the messenger could not stay. Excuse me this time. 
 
 Mr. Richards 1 was a native of South Wales. At the 
 age of twelve he had been at school only one year. From 
 this time till the twenty-fourth year of his age, when he 
 entered the academy at Bristol, he received no instruc 
 tion. But his application to study was vigorous and per 
 severing. He remained at the academy in Bristol two 
 years. After preaching for a short time as an assistant to 
 Dr. John Ash, of Pershore, he accepted an invitation from 
 the Baptist Church at Lynn to become their pastor, and 
 entered upon his public ministry in that town July 7, 
 1776, where he continued to reside more than half of the 
 time as pastor of the church till his death, which oc 
 curred in 1818, in the sixty-ninth year of his age. 
 
 Mr. Richards seems to have been a man of considera 
 ble learning, particularly in English and Welsh history, and 
 in the Welsh language and literature. His writings are his 
 torical, political, and controversial. 2 His most important 
 work is The History of Lynn, in 2 vols. 8vo. Dr. Evans 
 says of it : " It is not only well written, the style perspic- 
 
 i See Memoirs of the Life and Writings of Rev. William Richards, LL.D., by 
 John Evans, LL.D., of Islington. 12mo. Chiswick. 1819. 
 
 a For a list of his writings, comprising nearly the whole, see under his 
 name in the catalogue of the college library. 
 
 38 
 
446 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 nous and manly, but it is replete with information as well 
 as entertainment." His review of Noble s Memoirs of 
 the Protectoral House of Cromwell is characterized by 
 Lowndes 1 as "severe, but at the same time just." 
 
 " His Dictionary of Welsh and English," says Dr. Evans, 
 " a work of minute and wearisome labor, is in high repute." 
 Mr. Richards was of the General Baptist denomination, 
 and a strong advocate of religious liberty. It was his love 
 of the liberal character of the college which induced him 
 to bestow upon it his library, as appears from the follow 
 ing passage in his Memoirs : 
 
 "Mr. Richards had corresponded with Dr. James Manning, once 
 President of the Baptist college in Rhode Island. From this gentleman 
 he learned the liberal constitution of that respectable seminary, and for 
 some years previous to his death meant to bequeath to it his library. He 
 accordingly made inquiry of Dr. Rogers [of Philadelphia], whether it 
 was still conducted on the same liberal footing, in which case he should 
 cherish the same generous intentions towards it." 
 
 This inquiry was answered by Dr. Messer, then Presi 
 dent of the college, in a letter from which we extract a 
 single passage : 
 
 " Though the charter requires that the President shall forever be a Bap 
 tist, it allows neither him, in his official character, nor any other officer 
 of instruction, to inculcate any sectarian doctrine. It forbids all relig 
 ious tests ; and it requires that all denominations of Christians, behav 
 ing alike, shall be treated alike. This charter is congenial with the 
 whole of the civil government established here by the venerable Roger 
 "Williams, who allowed no religious tests, and no preeminence of one 
 denomination over another ; and none has ever been allowed unto this 
 day. This charter is also congenial with the present spirit of this State 
 and of this town." 
 
 1 Bibliographer s Manual. 
 
1789-1791. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 447 
 
 Gratified with this letter, Mr. Richards, in accordance 
 with the purpose which he cherished twenty-seven years 
 previous to his death, and which he hints in his letter to 
 Dr. Manning, bequeathed his books, consisting of about 
 thirteen hundred volumes, to Brown University. This was 
 the most important donation that the library had as yet 
 received. It is a singular fact, that his will was made on 
 the very day on which the honorary degree of Doctor of 
 Laws was conferred upon him by the college. Mr. Rich 
 ards had received no intimation that the honor was in 
 tended for him, nor did he live to hear that it had been 
 bestowed. 
 
 The library which he thus bequeathed is in many re 
 spects valuable. It contains a considerable number of 
 Welsh books, a large collection of works illustrating the 
 history and antiquities of England and Wales, besides 
 two or three hundred bound volumes of pamphlets, some 
 of them very ancient, rare, and curious. The collection 
 is particularly valuable for its treatises on civil and reli 
 gious liberty. The original manuscript catalogue of Mr. 
 Richards s library has recently come into our possession. 
 It is now among the archives of the University. 
 
 Dr. Evans, in his account of Brown University, appended 
 to his Life of Richards, says : " Whilst the library of my 
 friend Richards remains amongst them, to perpetuate the 
 name and character of its donor, may it urge its worthy 
 President, as well as the members of this truly respect 
 able institution, to the continued exercise of that spirit 
 of liberality which induced an honest Cambro-Briton, at 
 the distance of three thousand miles, to mark and reward 
 it." 
 
 The last letter from Manning of which we have any 
 
448 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 account, is addressed to his college classmate and life-long 
 friend, the Rev. Dr. Smith : 
 
 PROVIDENCE, 4th June, 1791. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 Yours of Feb. 15th ult. came to hand three months to a day after it 
 was written, so that we now stand on even ground. As you say of mine, 
 it met a welcome reception. I am sorry it has not been in my power to 
 provide for Mr. Messer agreeably to my wishes and ideas of his merit. 
 There will be an opening at Providence for a tutor in the fall ; but Mr. 
 Alden, of senior standing, appears to incline to fill the place. If so, there 
 will be an opening at Taunton in the academy which he will leave. I 
 hope that Mr. Messer may be accommodated at one or other of these 
 berths. Please to present my best respects to him, and tell him he shall 
 have my interest. Ere this comes to hand, the news of the departure of 
 our two good friends Messrs. John Jenckes and Nicholas Brown must have 
 reached vou. Providence, church, and society are bereaved indeed ! But 
 Jesus lives, and lives to support his cause when earthly supporters fail. 
 
 The affairs of the college do not prosper as I could wish. With the 
 twenty-two who graduated last fall, we have lost twenty-nine this year, 
 which is a great defalcation from our small number. More are about 
 to come soon, but I think it will be some time before we shall make the 
 number of last year good. Our number is about fifty-five. The last in 
 telligence from Brother Gano is, that early this spring his kitchen caught 
 fire by accident, and consumed with it all their kitchen furniture, smoked 
 meat, etc. Poor ill-fated man ! He is not to have his portion here. Well, 
 I believe he is secure of it above. I am glad to hear that you found my 
 friends the Newbolds agreeable. I saw Caleb at York a few days since, 
 and he mentioned you with great affection, as also all the eastern people 
 to whom he was introduced. I saw none of your relations to the west 
 ward, as my journey was hasty and attended with business. Nothing- 
 remarkable in the Middle States in a religious way, save that Brother 
 Foster and people are very happv and prosperous. The Second Church 
 rent again, and in a miserable situation. Our old friends generally well. 
 My brother Enoch died in February last, and John Manning, Esq., my 
 cousin ; also Aunt Randolph, wife of Uncle Ephraim. The people of 
 Providence have chosen Mr. Maxcy for their minister, and he has resigned 
 his tutorship and accepted. He gives very general satisfaction, and prom 
 ises usefulness. Religious impressions are not all erased from the minds 
 
1789-1791. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 of the people here. With best respects to you and lady, in which Mrs. 
 
 Manning joins, 
 
 Your old friend, 
 
 JA3IES MANNING. 
 
 Dr. Manning, as his correspondence shows, had repeat 
 edly and earnestly requested his people to seek for a proper 
 person to succeed him in the ministry. This he did, not 
 because his interest in preaching had diminished, but 
 rather on account of his multiplied duties as President of ^ 
 the college, which would not permit him to do justice to 
 his flock. " At length, in a most honorable way, he re 
 signed his pastoral office." On the last Sabbath in April, 
 1791, a few months only before his death, he preached to 
 the people of his charge his farewell sermon. The occa 
 sion was one of unusual solemnity. For twenty years he 
 had been to them their spiritual guide. Under his teach 
 ings and influence the church had been greatly improved 
 in its discipline and worship, and the society had become 
 large and flourishing. Revivals had attended upon his min 
 istry, so that again and again he had come to them " in the 
 fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ," announcing 
 to not a few "glad tidings of great joy." Scores of his 
 hearers he had led down into the baptismal waters. And 
 now, as he uttered from the pulpit his last affectionate ad 
 dress, and, as if in prophetic anticipation of his approach 
 ing end, expressed the improbability of his ever preaching 
 to them again, sorrow filled their hearts, and their emo 
 tions found utterance in sobs and tears. 
 
 At a meeting of the corporation held on the 13th of 
 April, Dr. Manning had notified them to look out for a 
 successor to fill his place ; and shortly after preaching his 
 farewell sermon, he had made a request in writing for a 
 meeting of the Baptist society, to make arrangements for 
 38* 
 
450 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 finishing the meeting-house and lot, stating in this re 
 quest that it would probably be his last. What gave him 
 this singular presentiment of his approaching mortality, 
 can never, perhaps, be ascertained. It proved, alas ! to be 
 but too well founded. On Saturday, July 23d, he dined 
 at the hospitable table of his friend Mr. John Brown. 
 On Sabbath morning following, while uttering the voice 
 of prayer around the domestic altar, he was seized with 
 a fit of apoplexy, in which he remained, but with imper 
 fect consciousness, till the ensuing Friday, when, about 
 four o clock in the morning, he expired, in the fifty-fourth 
 year of his age. 
 
 The sudden death of a man who was universally es 
 teemed and loved, and who had filled, for so many years, 
 such various and commanding stations of usefulness and 
 trust, produced throughout the entire community the most 
 profound sorrow, reaching to every part of the city in 
 which he lived. When, a month previous, his intimate 
 friend and associate Nicholas Brown, whose munificence 
 had flowed in a thousand channels, and whose example 
 had given a new impulse to the public mind, quitted the 
 scene which he had so long adorned with his presence 
 and enriched with his bounty, it was to be expected that 
 there should be, as there was, a general expression of sor 
 row and regret. But that the removal of a Christian min 
 ister, and a teacher of science and letters, who possessed 
 none of the advantages of wealth, but whose later years, 
 on the contrary, had been oppressed by economic solicitude 
 and care, should produce a regret so universal and so deep, 
 " is a pleasing homage " adopting the language of Robert 
 Hall on a similar occasion " to the majesty of moral 
 power and intellectual greatness." 
 
1789-1791. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 451 
 
 The corporation immediately assembled in the college 
 hall, when the death of the President was announced by 
 the Hon. Jabez Bowen, LL.D., Chancellor. Among other 
 demonstrations of respect and affection for the deceased, 
 a committee, consisting of the Rev. Dr. Hitchcock and 
 Messrs. John Brown and George Benson, was appointed 
 to wait on Mrs. Manning, and express to her their sincere 
 condolence on the death of her " late worthy husband." 
 Messrs. Joseph Russell, Welcome Arnold, and George 
 Benson were also appointed a committee to superintend 
 the funeral, the expenses thereof to be defrayed by the 
 corporation. 
 
 On Saturday, July 30, the next day after his death, the 
 remains of Dr. Manning were conveyed from his residence 
 to the college hall, where the funeral solemnities were 
 performed by the Rev. Dr. Hitchcock, at that time the 
 pastor of the Congregational church in Providence, and 
 one of the most active Fellows of the college. " The fu 
 neral," says Prof. Goddard, " though a public one, was no 
 empty pageant. Multitudes flocked to the college, to look 
 for the last time upon a face which had so often beamed 
 upon them in kindness ; and multitudes followed him to 
 the grave which was so soon to hide him forever from their 
 sight." Indeed, the funeral, in the language of the Provi 
 dence Gazette, was thought to " have been the most nu 
 merous and respectable ever attended in town." 
 
 The corpse, placed upon a hearse, 1 was borne to the 
 north burying-ground, where it now rests by the side of 
 Nicholas Brown, in the family lot. "United in life, in 
 
 1 We have it upon the authority of the late Mr. John B. Chaoe, that at Dr. 
 Manning s funeral a hearse was used for the first time in Providence. It was 
 imported from England. 
 
452 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 death they are not separated." The following was the or 
 der of the funeral procession : 
 
 STUDENTS. 
 
 STEWARD. 
 
 GRADUATES OF THE COLLEGE. 
 
 TUTORS. 
 PROFESSORS FOBES AND WEST. 
 
 THE CORPSE. 
 
 MOURNERS IN A COACH. 
 
 CHANCELLOR OF THE COLLEGE. 
 
 MEMBERS OF THE CORPORATION. 
 
 CLERGY. 
 PHYSICIANS. 
 
 MEMBERS OF THE BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 CITIZENS IN GENERAL. 
 
 On the ensuing Sabbath, an eloquent and impressive 
 funeral sermon was preached in the Baptist meeting-house, 
 by the Rev. Perez Fobes, LLJX, pastor of the Congrega 
 tional church in Raynham, Mass., and also Professor of 
 Natural and Experimental Philosophy in the college. A 
 sermon was also preached on the same day by the Rev. 
 Dr. Maxcy, Manning s successor. Both these sermons 
 were afterwards published. From the former we cannot 
 forbear making brief extracts : 
 
 " The amiable Manning has given up the ghost ; and where is he ? 
 Not in the college, where lately we saw him presiding with mild dignity 
 and parental affection, greatly beloved by every member of that collected 
 family ; not in the house of God, where he often met you ; nor in the 
 pulpit, where you have so frequently heard him preach the glad tidings 
 of great joy ; not at the communion-table, breaking to you the bread of 
 life, and praying for the health of languishing souls ; not in his own 
 house, with his family and friends around him, where he was ever known 
 as the revered head and illustrious example of religion, of government, 
 and of every domestic and social virtue. No, he is not here." 
 
1789-1791. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY. 453 
 
 " The corporation of the college, with the instructors and students, all 
 feel and recognize the loss. Their hearts echo to the voice of mourning, 
 to the deep-toned bell, and to all the badges of sorrow. With multitudes 
 around us, we have dropped the involuntary tear. We have felt the sigh 
 unbidden heave, and followed the hearse, solemn and slow, with a nu 
 merous train of mourners, all united in the attestation of high esteem 
 and affection for the lamented man of God. We are witnesses, and God 
 also, how piously, and justly, and unblamably he lived among us, we 
 are witnesses to the amiableness of his natural temper. How pleasing 
 his condescension and affability ! How conspicuous his candor and im 
 partiality, even in circumstances of peculiar trial ! These, added to a 
 strong mind, well furnished with useful learning, and with ample re 
 sources for eloquence, popularity, and pleasing address, rendered him 
 highly esteemed through the large circle of his acquaintance. But, alas ! 
 all these amiable and useful qualities could not exempt him from the fate 
 of mortals." 
 
 To the foregoing, we add several letters by Dr. Man 
 ning s intimate friends, announcing his death, together 
 with extracts from a Commencement oration, and the 
 circular letters of the Warren and Philadelphia Associ 
 ations. The following letter is addressed to the Rev. Dr. 
 Hezekiah Smith : 
 
 BOSTON, July 30, 1791. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 I am sorry to be the messenger of news that will give you pain, but you 
 must know it. Dr. Manning was taken with a fainting fit last Lord s 
 Day morning, at family prayer, and expired yesterday morning, at half- 
 past four o clock. The complaint was of the apoplectic kind. He had 
 no senses from the time he was taken. Great the loss to his amiable wife, 
 great to the college and Baptist interest in general. But the Lord reigns ; 
 submission to him is our certain duty. We must immediately look 
 around for a person to fill his place ; but where to find him I know not. 
 What think you of Mr. Allison, or Dr. Jones ? Has the former had a 
 public education ? Or has the latter the various qualifications for a Presi 
 dent ? You and I must exert ourselves on this occasion. Friends at 
 Providence and elsewhere will expect it. Write freely to me on this sub 
 ject. I suppose it will be best that Mr. Howcll be desired to preside at 
 
454 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 the next Commencement, as the oldest Fellow. Peace be with you 
 
 Adieu. 
 
 Yours, 
 
 SAMUEL STILLMAN 
 
 The following letter to the Rev. Dr. Samuel Jones gives 
 particulars of Manning s death and funeral. It was written, 
 it will be observed, in behalf of the members of the cor 
 poration of the college, and in an informal manner, desig 
 nates Mr. Jones as Manning s successor in the presidency. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, Aug. 3, 1791. 
 DEAR SIR : 
 
 Before these lines will come to your hands you will doubtless have 
 heard the melancholy tidings of the death of our late worthy President 
 Manning. He departed this life about four o clock on Friday morning, 
 the 29th ult., after an illness of only five days, during which time he 
 discovered little or no signs of reason. His funeral was attended last 
 Saturday. It was the largest and most solemn that I have seen in this 
 place. I need not tell you that his death is universally lamented by all 
 ranks of people, but the loss is more severely felt by the corporation of 
 the college, and by the students under his care. As he was the founder of 
 the college, and celebrated for many shining abilities which peculiarly 
 qualified him to preside in it, we are apprehensive that the institution 
 may suffer a temporary relapse, unless some known and established char 
 acter can be induced to supply the vacancy soon. 
 
 At a meeting of as many of the corporation in this town as could be 
 readily convened to take into consideration measures relative to the en 
 suing Commencement, some conversation passed about the election of a 
 President, when it was the voice of all present that I should write to you 
 on the subject, and call on you for assistance on this occasion, so critical 
 to the interests of the college. It is our unanimous and very earnest re 
 quest, dear sir, that you will come to our help. The eyes of the corpora 
 tion seem fixed on you for a successor to President Manning. 
 
 From my long acquaintance with you, I have not the least doubt of 
 your disposition to serve the best interests of mankind. A door seems 
 now opened in divine Providence to call forth to public usefulness those 
 great and very useful talents I know you possess. Let me entreat you to 
 
1789-1791. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 455 
 
 consider the application weightily. I am sure you will do it sensibly. 
 I am to request a line from you in answer, by the first post after the re 
 ceipt of this letter, or as soon as you find it convenient to give us an an 
 swer to the subject of it, and I have it in charge in particular and very ur 
 gently to request your attendance with us at the ensuing Commencement. 
 Pray give my respects to Mrs. Jones, by whom I trust I am still re 
 membered, and to any others in your good family to whom I may be 
 known, and to inquiring friends. With very great esteem, I remain, dear 
 sir, 
 
 Your affectionate friend and very humble servant, 
 
 DAVID HOWELL. 
 
 To the Rev. Dr. Rippon, of London, the Rev. Isaac 
 Backus, under date of Aug. 19, 1791, writes : 
 
 " I was with President Manning two days in June past, and when I 
 parted with him, the 8th of that month, I had as little thought of its be 
 ing the last parting for time, as at any parting we ever had. But near 
 night, on July 29, I received a line from Providence, informing me of 
 his decease at four o clock that morning. I went there the first instant, 
 and met the college corporation the next day, who have thought of Dr. 
 Jones for his successor, if he can be obtained ; but we have no idea of 
 obtaining any man who will equal President Manning in all respects, at 
 least soon. His extensive knowledge, fervent piety, constant study to be 
 serviceable to mankind, his easy access to every class of people, with his 
 gift of governing so as to be feared and loved by all, where keen envy 
 did not prevail, rendered him the most accomplished man for that sta 
 tion of any one I ever saw. Yet, in the midst of his usefulness, he is 
 gone, as universally lamented as any man that I have known." 
 
 At the Commencement in 1791, an "Oration on the 
 Death of Rev. President Manning" was delivered by Sim 
 eon Doggett, of the class of 1788, then a candidate for the 
 Master s degree. Mr. Doggett was a tutor in the college 
 from 1791 to 1796. He afterwards had the charge of an 
 academy in Taunton, Mass. He was pastor of the Con- 
 gregational church in Mendon, Mass., from 1815 to 1831, 
 and from the latter year to 1846 was the pastor of the 
 
456 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 Congregational church in Raynham. He died March 20, 
 1852, in the eighty-seventh year of his age. From his ora 
 tion on Manning, which is preserved in manuscript among 
 the college archives, we present extracts : 
 
 He is gone, alas ! never to return. No more, Manning ! must thou. 
 grace that sacred desk with thy majestic presence. No more shall the 
 temple of the Lord seem like the gates of heaven from the sweet droppings 
 of thy lips. No more shall Christian assemblies be moved, be pleased, 
 be instructed, be enraptured by thy inspired tongue. No more shalt thou 
 lead the devout heart up to the throne of God. No more shall thy concil 
 iating tongue and precious counsels be heard in church and state. Thy 
 placid countenance, thy pleasing converse, thy soft and graceful manners 
 shall no more delight the friendly circle. No more shall you, respected 
 patrons of yonder seat of learning, boast of the shining character of your 
 President and friend. No more shall we, my dear elder brothers, sit in 
 council with our wise, our mild, our beloved President O, relent 
 less Death ! not even the worth of a Manning could elude thy stroke. 
 But in the midst of his usefulness, when that nursery of science, planted 
 and reared by his fostering hand, extending its branches, began to require 
 all those abilities to inspect and preserve it which were exerted to rear it ; 
 when it was under his watchful eye and industrious hand flourishing in all 
 the beauties of knowledge, and moulding human nature into her most 
 pleasing forms ; when he began to see and rejoice in the fruit of his labors, 
 in the midst of all his glory, cruel Death ! thou hast suddenly snatched 
 him away, and hurried him to the grave Though these his exer 
 tions to increase knowledge were almost unparalleled, yet merely to in 
 crease knowledge was not his end, but the means, the end of which was 
 to regenerate the heart and to advance the Redeemer s kingdom. Hence, 
 while engaged to promote learning, he was still more engaged to promote 
 religion. Of this all his pupils are witnesses who have seen his devotion 
 and enjoyed his instructions. How naturally at our college exercises 
 would a very slight connection lead his discourse to moral and religious 
 subjects ! Upon these subjects, with what additional ardor would he dis 
 course ! These occasions seemed to add new life to his faculties. They 
 would add warmth to his heart, brightness to his understanding, and elo 
 quence to his tongue. And still more did his devotion ever show that his 
 heart s desire and constant prayer to God was that true religion might 
 
1789-1791. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 457 
 
 flourish. And of this his pupils are not the only witnesses. All Christian, 
 societies within his extensive acquaintance, especially those of this town, 
 are also witnesses. It was this which led him to the study of divinity, 
 and finally made him so eminent in the ministry. It was this which 
 caused him, like the primitive apostles, to travel through all parts of the 
 
 country to instruct, to purify, to organize, and to confirm the church 
 
 Perhaps no one of his age had a greater influence in the Redeemer s king 
 dom ; and his usefulness was parallel with his influence. And was it not 
 also this ardent desire for the triumph of religion that inspired him with 
 such distinguished eloquence? Few preachers of his age spoke like him. 
 He moved, he pleased, he instructed all who heard him. Notwithstand 
 ing the diversity of dispositions, and the indifference of hearts in Chris 
 tian assemblies, his eloquence made its way to all. Sometimes clothing 
 himself with the threatenings of the law, he seemed to thunder forth all 
 the terrors of Mount Sinai, causing the most hardened and stubborn sin 
 ners to tremble before him. At other times, putting on the garment of 
 mildness, the peace of the gospel, his eloquence breathed naught but be 
 nevolence, diffusing tenderness, and melting all hearts into grief and love. 
 Thus following this great man from his first appearance upon the stage 
 of active life to his disappearance, we invariably find him holding in his 
 left hand the classics, in his right the word of God, with his eye fixed 
 on the good of mankind, widely diffusing, as he passed along, knowledge, 
 and religion, and happiness. Here we might add his more particular 
 character. We might amplify the majestic but mild beauties of his per 
 son and appearance ; the vast resources of his mind ; the uncommon 
 greatness of his acquirements, considering the activity of his life ; his 
 remarkably amiable disposition; his astonishingly popular talents, and 
 his distinguished and inflexible virtue and piety Time not afford 
 ing me the pleasure of further addressing the particular connections of 
 this great man, I proceed to ask whether a character so distinguished, so 
 useful, so amiable, could possibly be the object of detraction ? Alas ! the 
 depravity of human nature, it could, it was. But mark the issue. Where 
 now is detraction 1 Confounded with shame and remorse, she has forever 
 hidden her head. The universal lamentation at his death, the surprising 
 throng of mourners at his funeral, and the universal approbation of his 
 character, have eternally stopped her mouth, and reflected her deadly 
 shafts back upon herself, where they will continue to sting like serpents, 
 and to caution her to be careful how she deals with real merit." 
 
458 M A N N I N G A N D CIIAP. X. 
 
 The circular letter of the Warren Association alludes 
 to the death of Maiming as a great loss in Zion : 
 
 " Should we close this letter without taking notice of the providence 
 of God in the removal of two of our ministers by death the year past, we 
 should betray a criminal inattention. The one is Brother Nathaniel 
 Green, of Charlton, who hath long sustained a good character in our 
 churches. The other was our much esteemed Brother JAMES MANNING, 
 D. D., President of Rhode Island College, whose abilities and usefulness 
 were well known to us all, and whose attention to the interests of learn 
 ing and religion justly claim our esteem. Oh that the great Head of the 
 Church, in whom are all gifts and grace, would favor us with other per 
 sons of equal accomplishments, that thereby the breaches in the walls of 
 Zion may be built up." 
 
 From the circular letter of the Philadelphia Associa 
 tion we also make an extract : 
 
 " But our joys abate, while we reflect on the heavy tidings, so generally 
 mentioned in your letters, of the death of our highly esteemed and dearly 
 beloved brother, DR. MANNING ; who, engaged in the dearest interests of 
 religion, of science, and the prosperity of his country, fell from the zenith 
 of glory and usefulness. In the general loss we sustain an important part. 
 No longer shall we enjoy his able counsels, his divine and persuasive 
 eloquence, nor his personal friendship. But while we ti-ust he fell to rise 
 to higher, to celestial glories, and joys unspeakable, resignation becomes 
 us. May the Lord sanctify to the churches and ministers of Christ the 
 awful stroke, enable us to feel and faithfully discharge the duties devolv 
 ing on us, and imitate his amiable example." 
 
 A review of Dr. Manning s life, as presented in the sev 
 eral chapters of our work, affords a pleasing illustration of 
 the truth which Cowper has so well expressed, 
 
 " God gives to every man 
 The virtue, temper, understanding, taste 
 That lifts him into life, and lets him fall 
 Just in the niche he was ordained to fill." 
 
1789-1791. B 110 WN UNIVERSITY. 459 
 
 It only remains to add a few particulars relating to Man 
 ning s personal appearance, habits, character, and influence. 
 This we shall do in the language of his intimate friend, 
 and early associate in the instruction of the college, the 
 Hon. David Howell, who wrote his obituary notice, and 
 who also penned the inscription upon the stone erected by 
 the Trustees and Fellows of the college to his memory. 
 The following extracts from his obituary notice were orig 
 inally published in the Providence Gazette for Saturday, 
 Aug. G, 1791: 
 
 " In his youth he was remarkable for his dexterity in athletic exercises, 
 for the symmetry of his body, and gracefulness of his person. His coun 
 tenance was stately and majestic, full of dignity, goodness, and gravity ; l 
 and the temper of his mind was a counterpart to it. He was formed for 
 enterprise. His address was pleasing, his manner enchanting, his voice 
 harmonious, and his eloquence almost irresistible. 
 
 " Having deeply imbibed the spirit of truth himself, as a preacher of 
 the gospel, he was faithful in declaring the whole counsel of God. He 
 studied plainness of speech and to be useful more than to be celebrated. 
 The good order, learning, and respectability of the Baptist churches in the 
 Eastern States are much owing to his assiduous attention to their wel 
 fare. The credit of his name, and his personal influence among them, 
 have never, perhaps, been exceeded by any other character. 
 
 " Of the college he must be considered, in one sense, as the founder. 
 He presided with the singular advantage of a superior personal appear 
 ance, added to all his shining talents for governing and instructing youth. 
 From the first beginning of his Latin school at Warren, through many 
 discouragements, he has, by constant care and labor, raised this seat of 
 
 1 The likeness of Dr. Manning accompanying the present work was engraved 
 from an original portrait, which has long been in the possession of Brown Uni 
 versity. It was painted in the year 1770, by Cosmo Alexander, a Scotch gentle 
 man, who came from Edinburgh to Newport about this time, and who is said to 
 have patronized Gilbert Stuart, and to have given to him his first lessons in 
 drawing. He returned to Scotland in the winter of 1772, taking young Stuart 
 with him. An account of Alexander may be found in " Dunlap s History of the 
 Arts of Design in the United States." 
 
460 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 learning to notice, to credit, and to respectability in the United States. 
 Perhaps the history of no other college will disclose a more rapid prog 
 ress or greater maturity, in the course of about twenty-five years. 
 
 " Although he seemed to be consigned to a sedentary life, yet he was 
 capable of more active scenes. He had paid much attention to the gov 
 ernment of his country, and had been honored by this State with a seat in 
 the Old Congress. In state affairs he discovered an uncommon degree 
 of sagacity, and might have made a figure as a politician. 
 
 " In classical learning he was fully competent to the business of teach 
 ing, although he devoted less" time than some others in his station to the 
 study of the more abstruse sciences. In short, nature seemed to have fur 
 nished him so completely, that little remained for art to accomplish. The 
 resources of his genius were great. In conversation he was at all times 
 pleasant and entertaining. He had as many friends as acquaintances, and 
 took no less pains to serve his friends than to acquire them. 
 
 " His death is a loss, not to the college or church only, but to the world. 
 He is lamented by the youth under his care, by the churches, by his fel 
 low-citizens ; and wherever his name has been heard, in whatever quarter 
 of the civilized earth, the friends of science, of virtue and humanity will 
 drop a tender tear on the news of his death. 
 
 " His amiable lady, the wife of his youth, and the boast of her sex, 
 with all her fortitude of mind, which is great, must have sunk under the 
 distressing loss were she not sustained by divine grace. May Heaven con 
 tinue to support her, for earth must have lost its charms. Few persons 
 ever enjoyed a more excellent constitution, or better health. Increasing cor 
 pulence, 1 occasioned chiefly by his confinement to the labors of his station 
 (for he was temperate in his diet), gave him some complaints of ill-health 
 of late years ; but what in particular furnished him with a singular pre 
 sentiment of his mortality, is unknown." 
 
 i Concerning Dr. Manning s " bulk," the Hon. William Hunter, one of his 
 pupils, thus writes : " His motions and gestures were so easy and graceful that 
 ordinary observers thought not of his immense volume of flesh, and those who 
 criticized, admired the manner by which it was spontaneously wielded. I do 
 r,ot know that he had ever read Hogarth s Analysis of Beauty, but he moved in 
 his line of grace." 
 
1789-1791. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 Our task is done. We have endeavored to trace the 
 origin, and to exhibit the early progress, of Rhode Island 
 College, or, as it is now called, Brown University. So far 
 as possible, we have allowed the writers, the actors, and 
 the records of the past, to tell their own story in their own 
 way, having no theories to advance, and no interests save 
 those of truth and justice to subserve. That members of 
 the Philadelphia Baptist Association planned the college 
 in the outset, admits not even the shadow of a doubt. It 
 was designed, in the language of the preface to Morgan 
 Edwards s subscription book, "to adorn human nature, 
 and promote the true interests and happiness of mankind," 
 by disseminating sound knowledge and useful literature. 
 Its main design, however, was to secure for the churches 
 an educated ministry. For this its friends toiled and 
 prayed, amidst difficulties and discouragements, growing 
 out of indifference on the one hand, and opposition on the 
 other. Under the auspices of its devoted President it be 
 came a centre of influence, and a rallying point for the de 
 nomination, greatly promoting," says Manning, " Baptist 
 principles, and the spread of civil and religious liberty 
 
 throughout New England, and adding respectability 
 
 to the Baptist profession." 
 
 We have traced the career of Dr. Manning from its 
 commencement to its close, and, so far as our materials 
 would admit, have made him his own biographer. Our 
 readers have thus obtained a more correct idea of his 
 character and life than could have been obtained by any 
 formal delineation of his virtues as a man, or of his genius 
 as an educator, a statesman, and a preacher. Devotion to 
 the interests of the college appears to have been the ani 
 mating motive of his conduct, and the improvement and 
 elevation of the Baptist denomination through the college, 
 39* 
 
4G2 MANNING AND CHAP. X. 
 
 the object and aim of his entire professional life. The 
 sentiment, so beautifully expressed by Dr. South, that " the 
 Spirit always guides and instructs before he saves ; and as 
 he brings to happiness only by the ways of holiness, so he 
 never leads to true holiness but by the paths of knowl 
 edge," was by no means an universal sentiment, it will be 
 observed, in the days of Manning. The Baptists as a de 
 nomination were not specially friendly to learning, and the 
 provision for the education of their clergy was exceedingly 
 limited. To the work of removing existing prejudices 
 against collegiate institutions, and of securing for the de 
 nomination to which he was attached the benefits of an 
 educated ministry, he devoted his best energies. His men 
 tal acquisitions, his distinguished piety, his great ministe 
 rial excellence, which, combined with his natural gifts and 
 endowments, gave him so rare and so extensive an influence 
 over the minds of men, were all alike consecrated to this 
 one cherished object. For this he declined, at the begin 
 ning of his public life, the call of the church at Charleston, 
 having already committed himself to the interests of the 
 college. For this he resigned his pastoral charge at War 
 ren, greatly to the surprise and the regret of his people. 
 For this he perseveringly labored amidst the discourage 
 ments of poverty, the opposition of enemies, the indifference 
 of friends, and the conflicts of war. To benefit the college 
 he left its quiet shades, and the pulpit where his labors had 
 been honored and blest, and entered the arena of political 
 strife; and when his object was attained, so far as it could 
 be through his own personal exertions, he returned from 
 the halls of Congress to his accustomed duties, resisting all 
 the allurements of political life and the public distinctions 
 to which his talents would naturally have entitled him. 
 And toward the close of his career, although in the midst 
 
1789-1791. BROWN UNIVERSITY. 
 
 463 
 
 of gracious manifestations of the Divine presence, and en 
 joying the emoluments of a large and flourishing church 
 and society, which had been built up mainly through his 
 exertions, he again and again requested his people to pro 
 vide a successor in the pastorate, in order that he might 
 give himself more exclusively to the care of the college, 
 and to the great work of laying broad and deep the foun 
 dations for an educated Baptist ministry. In all this "he 
 labored," says Prof. Goddard, " not for himself, but for 
 others, and, in language breathing a holier inspiration than 
 that of poetry, may be conveyed the grand moral of his 
 
 life : 
 
 Love thyself last; 
 
 Let all the ends thou aim st at be thy country s, 
 Thy God s, and truth s. " 
 
 The narrative has, in several instances, presented illus 
 trations of sectarian bitterness, of which Manning and his 
 associates were sometimes the objects, and also of the un 
 fair dealings to which the college in its infancy was sub 
 jected, but it is only as a part of the history of the times, 
 and, we trust, only in the spirit of candor and of historical 
 fidelity. The animosities and strifes of a hundred years 
 ago have long since been buried, and both the college and 
 its self-sacrificing founders are enshrined in the reverence 
 and affection of all, of every ecclesiastical name, who have 
 shared in the manifold benefits they have conferred upon 
 mankind. May the record here made of the consecrated 
 benevolence and the persevering efforts of our fathers 
 stimulate the patrons and friends of Brown University, 
 which now enters upon the second century of its exist 
 ence, to renewed exertions on its behalf; and may all its 
 scattered sons, and the religious denomination especially 
 whose present prosperity is so largely due to his intelligent 
 
464 MANNING AND BROWN UNIVERSITY. CHAP. X. 
 
 devoted labors, hold in grateful remembrance the virtues, 
 the talents, and the piety of JAMES MANNING. 
 
 " Peace to the just man s memory, let it grow 
 Greener with years, and blossom through the flight 
 Of ages; let the mimic canvas show 
 His calm benevolent features ; let the light 
 Stream on his deeds of love, that shun d the sight 
 Of all but heaven; and, in the book of fame, 
 The glorious record of his virtues write, 
 And hold it up to men, and bid them claim 
 A palm like his, and catch from him the hallow d flame." 
 
APPENDIX. 
 
 /CHARTER drafted by the Rev. Dr. 
 \J Stiles, and presented to the G-en- 
 eral Assembly of Rhode Island in the 
 month of August, 1763.1 
 
 The Governor and Company of his 
 Majesty s English Colony of Rhode 
 Island and Providence Plantations, 
 in America, in their General Assem 
 bly held at Newport, within afore 
 said Colony, on the first Monday of 
 August, Anno Domini One Thousand 
 Seven Hundred and Sixty-Three, 
 and in the third year of the reign of 
 his Majesty George the Third of 
 Great Britain, France, and Ireland, 
 King: To all to whom these pre 
 sents shall come, Greeting : 
 
 WHEREAS, institutions for liberal 
 education are highly beneficial to so 
 ciety, by forming the rising genera 
 tion to virtue, knowledge, and use 
 ful literature, and thus preserving 
 in the community a succession of 
 men duly qualified for discharging 
 the offices of life with usefulness 
 and reputation ; they have therefore 
 justly merited and received the at 
 tention and encouragment of every 
 wise, polite and well-regulated State : 
 
 CHARTER granted by the General 
 \J Assembly of Rhode Island, in the 
 month of February, 1764.2 
 
 At the GENERAL ASSEMBLY of 
 the Governor and Company of the 
 English Colony of Rhode Island and 
 Providence Plantations, in New Eng 
 land, in America, begun and holden 
 by adjournment at East Greenwich, 
 within and for the Colony aforesaid, 
 on the last Monday in February, in 
 the year of our Lord One Thousand 
 Seven Hundred and Sixty-four, and 
 fourth of the reign of his most sa 
 cred Majesty George the Third, by 
 the grace of God King of Great 
 Britain, and so forth. 
 
 AN ACT FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT 
 
 OF A COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY, 
 
 WITHIN THIS COLONY. 
 
 "polite "omitted. 
 
 1 From the original copy in Dr. Stiles s own handwriting. 
 
 2 Only the changes and additions made by the Committee are here given. See 
 Chap. I. p. 50. 
 
4GG 
 
 APPENDIX. 
 
 And whereas a public school or sem 
 inary, erected for this purpose within 
 this Colony, to which the youth may 
 freely resort for education in the ver 
 nacular and learned languages, and 
 in the liberal arts and sciences, would 
 be for the advantage and honor of 
 this government : And whereas the 
 Hon. Stephen Hopkins Esq., the 
 Hon. John Gardner Esq., the Hon. 
 Samuel Ward Esq., the Hon. Wil 
 liam Ellcry Esq., James Honyman, 
 Francis Willett, Simon Peas, Daniel 
 Jenckes, Jno. Tillinghast, Nicholas 
 Tillinghast, Joseph Russel, Edw. 
 Scott, Joseph Clark, James Helmc, 
 Esquires, Col. Elisha Reynolds, Col. 
 Josias Lyndon, Col. Benj. Hall, Col. 
 Job Bennet, Messieurs David Cheese- 
 brough, Joseph Jacob, Nath. Coggcs- 
 hall, Ephraim Bowen, William El- 
 lery Jun., Gideon Wanton, Rev. 
 Messrs. Othniel Cambell, Edw. Up- 
 ham, Jno. Burt, William Vinal, John 
 Maxson, Gardner Thurston, Ezra 
 Stiles, Marmaduke Brown, Samuel 
 Aldborough, Thos. Moffat M.D., 
 George Hazard, Joshua Clark Esq., 
 Samuel Nightingale, Shcrjashub 
 Bourn Esq., Messrs. Nicholas Brown, 
 Thomas Eyres, Elnathan Hammond, 
 William Rogers, Jno. Tanner, Eze- 
 kiel Burroughs, Henry Pcckam, etc., 
 etc., appear as undertakers in this 
 valuable design: And thereupon a 
 petition hath been preferred to this 
 Assembly praying that full liberty 
 and power may be granted unto 
 them to found, endow, order, and 
 a-ovcrn a College or University with 
 in this Colony; and for the more ef 
 fectual execution of this design to 
 incorporate them into one body pol 
 itic, to be known in the law with the 
 powers, privileges, and franchises 
 necessary to the purposes aforesaid : 
 
 erected for that purpose 
 
 for the general advantage and honor 
 of the government: And whereas 
 Daniel JenckesEsq., Nicholas Tilling 
 hast Esq., Nicholas Gardner Esq., 
 Col. Josias Lyndon, Col. Elisha Rey 
 nolds, Peleg Thurston Esq., Simon 
 Pease Esq., John Tillinghast Esq., 
 GeorgeHazardEsq.,Col, Job Bennet, 
 Nicholas Easton Esq., Arthur Fenner 
 Esq., Mr. Ezekiel Gardner, Mr. John 
 Waterman, Mr. James Barker Jr., 
 Mr. John Holmes, Solomon Drown 
 Esq., Mr. Samuel Winsor, Mr. Jo 
 seph Sheldon, Charles Rhodes Esq., 
 Mr. Nicholas Brown, Col. Barzillai 
 Richmond, Mr. John Brown, Mr. 
 Gideon Hoxsey, Mr. Thomas Eyres, 
 Mr. Thomas Potter Jr., Mr. Peleg 
 Barker, Mr. Edward Thurston, Mr. 
 William Redwood, Joseph Clarke 
 Esq., Mr. John G. Wanton, and Mr. 
 Thomas Robinson, with many other 
 persons, appear as undertakers in 
 the valuable design : And thereupon 
 a petition hath been preferred to this 
 Assembly, praying that full liberty 
 and power may be granted unto 
 such of them, with others, as are 
 hereafter mentioned, to found, en 
 dow, order, and govern a College or 
 University within this Colony ; and 
 that, for the more effectual execu 
 tion of this design, they may be in 
 corporated into one body politic, to 
 be known in the law, with the pow 
 ers, privileges, and franchizes neces 
 sary for the purposes aforesaid : 
 
APPENDIX. 
 
 4G7 
 
 NOW, THEREFORE, KNOW YE, 
 
 that being willing to encourage and 
 patronize such an advantageous and 
 useful institution, we, the said Gov 
 ernor and Company, in General As 
 sembly convened, do, for ourselves 
 and our successors, in and by virtue 
 of the power and authority, within 
 the jurisdiction of this Colony, to us 
 by the Royal Charter committed, en 
 act, grant, ordain, constitute, and de 
 clare, and it is hereby enacted, 
 granted, ordained, constituted, and 
 declared that the said Stephen Hop 
 kins, John Gardner, etc., etc., or 
 such and so many of them as shall 
 within six months from the date 
 hereof accept of this trust and qual 
 ify themselves as hereinafter direct 
 ed, and their successors, shall forever 
 hereafter be one body corporate and 
 politic, in fact and name, to be 
 known in law by the name of the 
 
 TRUSTEES AND FELLOWS or 
 
 COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY IN THE 
 COLONY or RHODE ISLAND AND 
 PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS, IN 
 AMERICA; the Trustees and Fellows 
 at any time hereafter giving such 
 
 honorable and useful 
 
 granted and committed, 
 
 that the Hon. Stephen Hopkins Esq., 
 the Hon. Joseph Wanton Jr. Esq., 
 the Hon. Samuel Ward Esq., the 
 Hon. William Ellery Esq., John 
 Tillinghast Esq., Simon Pease Esq., 
 James Honyman Esq., Nicholas 
 Easton Esq., Nicholas Tillinghast 
 Esq., Darius Sessions Esq., Joseph 
 Harris Esq., Francis Willett Esq., 
 William Logan Esq., Daniel Jenckes 
 Esq., George Hazard Esq., Nicholas 
 Brown Esq., Jeremiah Niles Esq., 
 Joshua Babcock Esq., Mr. John G. 
 Wanton, the Rev. Edward Uphara, 
 the Rev. Jeremiah Condy, the Rev. 
 Marmaduke Brown, the Rev. Gard 
 ner Thurston, the Rev. Ezra Stiles, 
 the Rev. John Graves, the Rev. John 
 Maxson, the Rev. Samuel Winsor, the 
 Rev. John Gano, the Rev. Morgan 
 Edwards, the Rev. Isaac Eaton, the 
 Rev. Samuel Stillman, the Rev. Sam 
 uel Jones, the Rev. James Manning, 
 the Rev. Russel Mason, Col. Elisha 
 Reynolds, Col. Josias Lyndon, Col. 
 Job Bennet, Mr. Ephraim Bowen, 
 Joshua Clarke Esq., Capt. Jonathan 
 Slade, John Taylor Esq., Mr. Rob 
 ert Strettell Jones, Azariah Dunham 
 Esq., Mr. Edward Thurston Jr., Mr. 
 Thomas Eyres, Mr. Thomas Hazard, 
 and Mr. Peleg Barker, or such or 
 so manv of them as shall, with- 
 
468 APPENDIX. 
 
 in twelve months from the date 
 hereof, accept of this trust, and 
 qualify themselves as hereinafter di 
 rected, and their successors, shall he 
 forever hereafter one body corporate 
 and politic, in fact and name, to be 
 known in law by the name of TRUS 
 TEES AND FELLOWS OF THE COL 
 LEGE OR UNIVERSITY IN THE ENG 
 LISH COLONY OF RHODE ISLAND 
 AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS, 
 IN NEW ENGLAND, IN AMERICA; 
 
 more particular name to said Col- the, instead of " said/ 
 legc, in honor of the greatest and 
 most distinguished benefactor, or 
 otherwise, as they shall think proper ; 
 which name, so given, shall, in all 
 acts, instruments, and doings of the 
 said body politic, be superadded to 
 their corporate name aforesaid, and 
 become a part of their legal appel 
 lation, by which it shall be forever forever known and distinguished: 
 after known and distinguished : And 
 that, by the same name, they and 
 their successors, chosen by them 
 selves, as hereinafter prescribed, as hereafter prescribed, 
 shall and may have perpetual suc 
 cession; and shall and may be per 
 sons able and capable, in the law, to 
 sue and to be sued, to plead and to 
 be impleaded, to answer and to be 
 answered unto, to defend and to be 
 
 defended, in all and singular suits, and to be defended against, 
 causes, matters, actions, and doings, 
 of what kind soever : And also to 
 have, take, possess, acquire, pur 
 chase, or otherwise receive and hold 
 lands, tenements, hereditaments, 
 goods, chattels, or other estates; of 
 all which they may, and shall, stand 
 and be seized, notwithstanding any 
 misnomer of this College, or the Cor- of the College, 
 poration thereof; and by whatever 
 name, or however imperfectly the 
 same shall be described in gifts, be 
 quests, and assignments, provided gift, bequest, and assignment, 
 
APPENDIX. 
 
 469 
 
 or benefactor be evident : 
 
 the true intent of the assignor or 
 
 benefactor shall be evident: Also 
 
 the same to grant, demise, aliene, 
 
 lease, use, manage, and improve, ac 
 cording to the tenor of the dona 
 tions, and to the purposes, trusts, 
 
 and uses to which they shall be 
 
 seized thereof: And full liberty, 
 
 power, and authority is hereby 
 
 granted unto the said Trustees and 
 
 Fellows, and their successors, to 
 
 found a College or University within 
 
 this Colony, for promoting the lib 
 eral arts and universal literature; 
 
 and with the moneys, estates, and 
 
 revenues, of which they shall from 
 
 time to time become legally seized 
 
 as aforesaid, to endow the same; 
 
 and erect the necessary edifices and buildings and edifices thereof, on 
 
 buildings thereof in such place with- such place 
 in this Colony as they shall think 
 convenient; and generally to reg 
 ulate, order, and govern the same, 
 appoint officers, and make laws, as 
 hereinafter prescribed; and hold, 
 use, and enjoy all the liberties, privi 
 leges, exemptions, dignities, and im 
 munities enjoyed by any college or 
 university whatever. 
 
 And furthermore, that the said 
 Trustees and Fellows, and their suc 
 cessors, shall, and may, forever here 
 after have a public seal, to use for 
 
 all causes, matters, and affairs what- matters, and affairs whatever, 
 soever, of them and their successors, 
 and the same seal to alter, break, same to alter 
 and make anew, from time to time, 
 at their will and pleasure; which 
 seal shall always be deposited with, 
 the President, or senior Fellow. 
 
 And furthermore, by the authority 
 aforesaid, it is hereby enacted, or 
 dained, and declared, that it is now, 
 and at all times hereafter shall con 
 tinue to be, the unalterable constitu 
 tion of this College or University, 
 40 
 
470 
 
 APPENDIX. 
 
 that the Corporation thereof shall 
 consist of two branches; that of 
 the Trustees, and that of the Fellow 
 ship, with distinct, separate, and 
 respective powers : And that the 
 number of the Trustees shall and 
 may be thirty-five; of which nineteen 
 shall forever be elected of the denom 
 ination called Baptists, seven shall 
 forever be elected of the denomina 
 tion v called Congregationalists or 
 Presbyterians, five shall forever be 
 elected of the denomination called 
 Friends or Quakers, and four shall 
 forever be elected of the denomina 
 tion called Episcopalians: And that 
 the succession in this branch shall be 
 forever chosen and filled up from the 
 respective denominations in this pro 
 portion, and according to these 
 numbers, which are hereby fixed 
 and shall remain in perpetuity im 
 mutably the same: And that the 
 Hon. Stephen Hopkins Esq., the 
 Hon. John Gardner Esq., the Hon. 
 Samuel Ward Esq., the Hon. Wil 
 liam Ellery Esq., James Honcyman, 
 Francis Willct, Simon Peas, Nicholas 
 Easton, Daniel Jenckes, Jno. Tilling- 
 hast, Nicholas Tillinghast, Joseph 
 Russel, Edward Scott, Joseph Clark, 
 James Helme, Esqrs., Colonels Eli- 
 sha Reynolds, Josias Lyndon, Benj. 
 Hall, Job Bennet, Messieurs David 
 Cheescbrough, Joseph Jacob, Nathl. 
 Coggeshall, George Hazard, John 
 Wanton, the Rev. Messrs. John Max- 
 son, Samuel Aldbovough, and Gard 
 ner Thurston, and Joshua Clark Esq., 
 Messrs. Nicholas Brown, Elnathan 
 Hammond, Jno. Tanner, William 
 Rogers, Ezekiel Burroughs, Henry 
 Pcckam, etc., or such and so many 
 of them as shall qualify themselves 
 as aforesaid, shall be and they are 
 hereby declared and established the 
 
 branches; to wit 
 
 And that the number of the Trustees 
 shall and may be thirty-six; of which 
 twenty-two shall forever be elected 
 of the denomination called Baptists 
 or Anti-Pedobaptists, five shall for 
 ever be elected of the denomination 
 called Friends or Quakers, four shall 
 forever be elected of the denomina 
 tion called Congregationalists, and 
 five shall forever be elected of the de 
 nomination called Episcopalians; 
 and that the succession in this branch 
 shall be forever chosen and filled up 
 from the respective denominations in 
 this proportion, and according to 
 these numbers, which are hereby 
 fixed, and shall remain to perpetuity 
 immutably the same. And that the 
 said Stephen Hopkins, Joseph Wan 
 ton, Samuel Ward, William Ellery, 
 John Tillinghast,Simon Pease, James 
 Honyman, Nicholas Easton, Nicho 
 las Tillinghast, Darius Sessions, Jo 
 seph Harris, Francis Willctt, Daniel 
 Jenckes, George Hazard, Nicholas 
 Brown, Jeremiah Niles, John G. 
 Wanton, Joshua Clarke, Gardner 
 Thurston, John Graves, John Max- 
 son, John Gano, Samuel Winsor, 
 Isaac Eaton, Samuel Stillman, Russel 
 Mason, Elisha Reynolds, Josias Lyn 
 don, Job Bennet, Ephraim Bowen, 
 John Taylor, Jonathan Slade, Rob 
 ert Strettell Jones, Azariah Dunham, 
 Edward Thurston Jr., and Pclcg 
 Barker, or such or so many of them 
 as shall qualify themselves as afore 
 said, shall be and they are hereby 
 declared and established the first and 
 present Trustees. And that the num 
 ber of the Fellows, inclusive of the 
 President (who shall always be a Fcl- 
 
APPENDIX. 
 
 171 
 
 first and present Trustees . And that 
 the number of the Fellows (inclusive 
 of the President, who shall always be 
 a Fellow), shall and may be twelve; 
 of which eight shall forever be elected 
 of the denomination called Congre- 
 gationalists, and the rest indifferent 
 ly of any and all denominations: 
 And that the Rev. Messrs. Edward 
 Upham, Othniel Campbell, John 
 Burt, William Vinal, Ezra Stiles, 
 and Marmaduke Brown, Samuel 
 Nightingale Esq., Thos. Moffat M. 
 D., Shcrjashub Brown, and William 
 Ellery Jr., Esqrs., and Dr. Thomas 
 Eyres, or such and so many as shall 
 qualify themselves as aforesaid, shall 
 be and they are hereby declared and 
 established the first and present Fel 
 lows and Fellowship, to whom the 
 President, when hereafter elected, 
 shall be joined to complete the 
 number. 
 
 And furthermore, it is declared 
 and ordained, that the succession in 
 both branches shall at all times here 
 after be filled up and supplied accord 
 ing to these numbers, and this estab 
 lished and invariable proportion, 
 from the. respective denominations, 
 by the election and concurrence of 
 both branches of this Corporation, 
 which shall at all times sit and act 
 by separate and distinct powers, the 
 concurrence of which to become and 
 produce the joint act of the Corpo 
 ration : And in general, that in or 
 der to the validity and confirmation 
 of all acts, there shall be, in the ex 
 ercise of their respective separate 
 and distinct powers, the joint con 
 currence of the Trustees and Fellows 
 by their respective majorities, except 
 in adjudging and conferring the ac 
 ademical degrees, which shall for 
 ever belong exclusively to the Fel- 
 
 low)shall and maybe twelve ; of which 
 eight shall be forever elected of the 
 denomination called Baptists, or 
 Anti-Pedobaptists, and the rest indif 
 ferently of any or all denominations : 
 And that the Rev. Edward Upham, 
 the Rev. Jeremiah Contly, the Rev. 
 Marmaduke Brown,thc Rev. Morgan 
 Edwards, the Rev. Ezra Stiles, the 
 Rev. Samuel Jones, the Rev. James 
 Manning, William Logan Esq., 
 Joshua Babcock Esq., Mr. Thomas 
 Eyres, and Mr. Thomas Hazard, or 
 such or so many of them as shall 
 qualify themselves as aforesaid, shall 
 be, and they are hereby declared the 
 first and present Fellows and Fellow 
 ship, to whom the President, when 
 hereafter elected (who shall forever 
 be of the denomination called Bap 
 tists or Anti-Pedobaptists), shall be 
 joined to complete the number. 
 
 And furthermore, it is declared and 
 ordained, that the succession in both 
 branches shall at all times hereafter 
 be filled up and supplied according 
 to these numbers, and this estab 
 lished and invariable proportion, 
 from the respective donominations, 
 by the separate election of both 
 branches of this Corporation, which 
 shall at all times sit and act by sepa 
 rate and distinct powers; and in gen 
 eral, in order to the validity and con 
 summation of all acts, there shall be 
 in the exercise of their respective, 
 separate, and distinct powers, the 
 joint concurrence of the Trustees arid 
 Fellows, by their respective majori 
 ties, except in adjudging and confer 
 ring the academical degrees, which 
 shall forever belong, exclusively, to 
 the Fellowship, as a learned Faculty. 
 
472 
 
 APPENDIX. 
 
 lowship as a learned Faculty; and the 
 election of a President, which shall 
 forever belong exclusively to the 
 Trustees, they the said Trustees con 
 sulting, advising with and taking the 
 opinion of the learned Faculty previ 
 ous to their choice and appointment 
 of such a learned and important offi 
 cer. 
 
 And furthermore, it is constitu 
 ted that the instruction, immediate 
 government of the College, nomina 
 tion of all officers, except the Presi 
 dent, together with the origination, 
 preparing and enacting all laws, shall 
 forever be and rest in the President 
 and Fellows or Fellowship ; and that 
 the election of the President, and con 
 firmation of all officers and laws, shall 
 forever be and rest in the Trustees. 
 
 And furthermore, it is ordained, 
 that there shall be a general meeting 
 of this Corporation on the first Wed 
 nesday of September annually, with 
 in the College edifice, and until the 
 same be built, at such place as they 
 shall appoint, to consult, advise, and 
 transact the affairs of said College 
 or University; at which, or at any 
 other time, the public Commence 
 ment may be held and celebrated. 
 And that, on any special emergency, 
 the President, and any two of the 
 Fellows, or any three of the Fellows, 
 may convoke, and they arc hereby 
 empowered to convoke, an assembly 
 of the Corporation on six days no 
 tice : And that, in all meetings, the 
 major votes of those present of the 
 two branches respectively shall be 
 deemed their respective majorities 
 aforesaid: Provided, that not less 
 than twelve of the Trustees, and 
 eight of the Fellows, be the quorum 
 of their respective branches. That 
 the President, or, in his absence, the 
 
 This clause, " and the election of a 
 President," etc., omitted. 
 
 And furthermore, it is constituted, 
 that the instruction and immediate 
 government of the College shall for 
 ever be and rest in the President and 
 Fellows or Fellowship. 
 
 This clause, " and that the election of 
 a President," etc., omitted. 
 
 of the Corporation on the first Wed 
 nesday in September 
 
 of the college; 
 
 special emergencies, 
 
 with any two 
 
 Fellows, exclusive of the President, 
 
 tAventy days notice : 
 major vote 
 
 and five of the Fellows, be a quorum 
 
APPENDIX. 
 
 473 
 
 senior Fellow present, shall always 
 be Moderator of the Fellows. That 
 this Corporation, at their annual 
 meeting, once in three years, or of- 
 tener in case of death or removal, 
 shall and may choose a Chancellor 
 of the University and Treasurer from 
 among the Trustees, and a Secretary 
 from among the Fellows. That the 
 nomination of the Chancellor shall be 
 alternately in the Trustees and Fel 
 lows, whose office shall be only to 
 preside as Moderator of the Trustees ; 
 and that, in his absence, the Trustees 
 shall choose a Moderator for the 
 time being, by the name of Vice- 
 Chanccllor. And at any of the 
 meetings, duly formed as aforesaid, 
 shall and may be elected a Trustee 
 or Fellow, or Trustees and Fellows, in 
 the room of those nominated in this 
 charter, who may refuse to accept, 
 or in the room of those who may 
 die, resign, or remove out of this 
 Colony, or be otherwise removed. 
 And in case the Corporation shall 
 omit above one year to fill up any 
 vacancy or vacancies in their body, 
 the respective branches shall and 
 may supply the succession in their 
 own separate elections, which elec 
 tions shall in such cases be complete 
 and valid. 
 
 And furthermore, it is enacted, 
 ordained, and declared, that this 
 Corporation, at any of their meet 
 ings, regularly convened as afore 
 said, shall and may elect and appoint 
 the President and Professors of lan 
 guages, and the several parts of lit 
 erature (the President being always 
 chosen by the Trustees as aforesaid) : 
 And upon the demise of him or 
 them, or either of them, their resig 
 nation or removal from his or their 
 office, for misdemeanor, incapacity, 
 40* 
 
 shall be in the Trustees 
 " and Fellows," omitted. 
 
 of their meetings, 
 
 Trustees or Fellows, 
 
 resign, or be removed. 
 
 This last clause, "And in case the 
 Corporation," etc., omitted. 
 
 " the President being always chosen 
 by the Trustees as aforesaid," omit 
 ted. 
 
474 
 
 APPENDIX. 
 
 or unfaithfulness (for which he or 
 they are hereby declared removable 
 by this Corporation), others to elect 
 and appoint in their room and stead : 
 And at such meeting, upon the nom 
 ination of the Fellows (who shall 
 also have the nomination of the 
 Professors), to elect and appoint tu 
 tors, stewards, butlers, and all such 
 other officers usually appointed in 
 colleges or universities, as they shall 
 find nccessaiy, and think fit to ap 
 point, for promoting of liberal educa 
 tion, and the well ordering the af 
 fairs of this College; and them, or 
 any of them, at their discretion, to 
 remove, and substitute others in 
 their places. And in case any Pres 
 ident, Trustee, or Fellow shall see 
 cause to change his religious denom 
 ination, or remove out of this Col 
 ony, this Corporation arc hereby 
 empowered to declare his or their 
 place or places vacant, and may pro 
 ceed to fill it up accordingly; which 
 
 " who shall also have the nomination 
 of the Professors/ omitted. 
 
 "or remove 
 omitted. 
 
 out of this Colony," 
 
 accordingly, as before directed; 
 
 upon the request of either branch " which upon the request," etc., to 
 
 being omitted by the body, either 
 branch may proceed to declare and 
 fill up their vacancy separately as 
 aforesaid; otherwise each Trustee 
 and Fellow, not an officer of instruc 
 tion, shall continue in his office dur 
 ing life, or until resignation. And 
 further, in case either of the religious 
 denominations should decline taking 
 a part in this catholic, comprehen 
 sive, and liberal institution, the Trus 
 tees and Fellows shall and may com 
 plete their number, by electing from 
 their respective denominations in 
 differently, always preserving their 
 respective proportions herein before 
 prescribed and determined : And all 
 elections shall be by ballot, or writ 
 ten suffrage : And that a quorum of 
 four Trustees and three Fellows may 
 
 the word " otherwise," omitted. 
 
 indifferently " omitted. 
 
APPENDIX. 
 
 475 
 
 transact any business, excepting 
 placing the college edifice, election 
 
 of Trustees, President, Fellows or Fellows and Professors, 
 Professors, that is to say, so that 
 their act shall be of force and valid 
 ity until the next annual meeting, 
 and no longer. 
 
 And it is further enacted and or 
 dained by the authority aforesaid, 
 that each Trustee and Fellow, as 
 well those nominated in this Charter 
 as all that shall hereafter be duly 
 elected, shall, previous to their acting 
 in a corporate capacity, take the en 
 gagement of allegiance prescribed 
 by law of this Government to his of this Colony 
 Majesty King George the Third, his 
 heirs and rightful successors to the 
 crown of Great Britain, which en 
 gagement shall be administered to 
 the present Trustees and Fellows by 
 the Governor or Deputy-Governor 
 of this Colony, and to those from 
 time to time hereafter elected by their 
 respective Moderators, who are here 
 by empowered to administer the 
 same. 
 
 And still more clearly to define 
 and ascertain the respective powers 
 of the two branches, on making and 
 enacting laws, it is further ordained 
 and declared, that the Fellowship 
 shall have power, and they are here 
 by empowered from time to time, 
 and at all times hereafter, to make, 
 enact, and publish all such laws, 
 statutes, regulations, and ordinances, 
 with penalties, as to them shall seem 
 meet, for the successful instruction 
 and government of said College or 
 University, not contrary to the spirit, 
 extent, true meaning, and intention 
 of the acts of the British Parliament 
 or the laws of this Colony; and the 
 same laws, statutes, and ordinances 
 to repeal : Which laws, and the re- 
 
476 
 
 APPENDIX. 
 
 peals thereof, shall be laid before the 
 Trustees, and with their approba 
 tion shall be of force and validity, 
 but not otherwise. And further, the 
 Trustees and Fellows, at their meet 
 ings aforesaid, shall ascertain the 
 salaries of the respective officers, 
 and order the moneys assessed on 
 the students for tuition, fines, and 
 incidental expenses, to be collected 
 by the Steward, or such other officer 
 as they shall appoint to collect the 
 same; and the same with their rev 
 enues, and other College estates in 
 the hands of the Treasurer, to ap 
 propriate in discharging salaries and 
 other College debts : And the College 
 accounts shall be annually audited 
 in the meeting of the Corporation. 
 
 And furthermore, it is hereby en 
 acted and declared, that into this 
 liberal and catholic institution shall 
 never be admitted any religious tests ; 
 but, on the contrary, all the mem 
 bers hereof shall forever enjoy full, 
 free, unmolested, and absolute liber 
 ty of conscience : And that the places 
 of Presidents, Professors, Tutors, 
 and all other officers, shall be free 
 and open for all denominations of 
 Protestants: And that youth of all 
 religious denominations shall and 
 may be freely admitted to the equal 
 advantages, emoluments,and honors 
 of this College or University; and 
 shall receive a like fair, generous, and 
 equal treatment during their resi 
 dence therein, they conducting them 
 selves peaceably, and conforming to 
 the laws and statutes thereof: And 
 that to all the purposes of this Cor 
 poration persons of different sects 
 shall be sufficiently distinguished 
 and known by their free profession 
 or declaration, and by their general 
 attendance on the public worship of 
 
 audited and adjusted 
 
 full, free, absolute, and uninterrupted 
 liberty of conscience : 
 And that the places of Professors, 
 Tutors, and all other officers, the 
 President alone excepted, 
 
 the, instead of "this." 
 
 The rest of this section, beginning 
 " And that to all the purposes," and 
 ending with " morals of the College" 
 (p. 478), omitted. In place thereof, 
 the following: And that the public 
 teaching shall, in general, respect the 
 sciences ; and that the sectarian differ- 
 
APPENDIX. 477 
 
 their respective denominations : And ences of opinion shall not make any 
 it is hereby ordained and declared, part of the public and classical instruc- 
 that in this College shall no undue tion : Although all religious contro- 
 methods or arts be practised to al- versies may be studied freely, exam- 
 lure and proselyte one another, or ined, and explained by the President, 
 to insinuate the peculiar principles Professors, and Tutors, in a personal, 
 of any one or other of the dcnomi- separate, and distinct manner, to the 
 nations into the youth in general; youth of any or each denomination : 
 which, as well as the monopoly of And above all, a constant regard be 
 offices, might discourage the send- paid to, and effectual care taken of, 
 ing of students to this College, in- the morals of the College, 
 volve unhappy controversies among 
 the instructors, and defeat this good 
 design : And it is thereupon agreed, 
 declared, constituted and established, 
 that everything of this nature shall 
 be accounted a misdemeanor, mu 
 tually avoided as much as possible, 
 and by all the denominations, gen 
 erously disdained and discounte 
 nanced as beneath the dignity, and 
 foreign from the true intention, of 
 this Confederacy : That accordingly 
 the public teaching shall in general 
 respect the sciences, and that the 
 sectarian differences of opinion, and 
 controversies on the peculiarities of 
 principle, shall not make any part of 
 the public and classical instruction : 
 Although all religious controversies 
 may be studied freely, examined,and 
 explained by the President, Profes 
 sors, and Tutors, in a personal, sep 
 arate, and distinct "manner to the 
 youth of any and each denomination, 
 they or their parents requesting the 
 same. And that in this the President, 
 Professors, and Tutors shall treat 
 the religion of each denomination 
 with peculiar tenderness,charity, and 
 respect; so that neither denomina 
 tion shall be alarmed with jealousies 
 or apprehensions of any illiberal and 
 disingenuous attempts upon one an 
 other, but on the contrary an open, 
 free, undesigning, and generous bar- 
 
478 
 
 APPENDIX. 
 
 mony; and a mutual honorable re 
 spect shall be recommended and en 
 deavored, in order to exhibit an ex 
 ample in which literature may be 
 advanced on Protestant harmony, 
 and the most perfect religious lib 
 erty : Yet, nevertheless, shall be pub 
 licly taught and explained to all the 
 youth, the existence, character, and 
 dominion of the Supreme Being, 
 the general evidences of natural and 
 revealed religion, and the principles 
 of moral philosophy, and a constant 
 regard be paid to, and effectual care 
 taken of the morals of the College. 
 
 And furthermore, for the honor 
 and encouragement of literature, we 
 constitute and declare the Fellowship 
 aforesaid a learned Faculty ; and do 
 hereby give, grant unto, and invest 
 them and their successors with full 
 power and authority, and they are 
 hereby authorized and empowered by 
 their President, and in his absence by 
 the senior Fellow, or one of the Fel 
 lows appointed by themselves, at the 
 anniversary Commencements, or at 
 any other times, and at all times here 
 after, to admit to and confer any and 
 all the learned degrees, given and con 
 ferred in any of the colleges or uni 
 versities in Europe, and particularly 
 in the Universities of Cambridge and 
 Edinburgh in Great Britain, or any 
 such other degrees of literary honor 
 as they shall devise, upon any and 
 all such candidates and persons as 
 the President and Fellows, or Fellow 
 ship, shall judge worthy of the ac 
 ademical honors: Which power of 
 conferring degrees is hereby restrict 
 ed to the learned Faculty alone, who 
 shall or may issue diplomas or cer 
 tificates of such degrees, or confer 
 degrees by diplomas, and authenti 
 cate them with the public seal of the 
 
 which can or ought to be given 
 
 " in Europe, and particularly in the 
 Universities of Cambridge and Edin 
 burgh in Great Britain," omitted. In 
 place thereof, the words, " in Amer 
 ica," substituted. 
 
APPENDIX. 
 
 479 
 
 Corporation, and the hands of the 
 President and Fellows, and in this 
 case with the hands of all the Pro 
 fessors as witnesses, and deliver them 
 to the graduates as honorable and 
 perpetual testimonies thereof. 
 
 And furthermore, for the greater 
 encouragement of this seminary of 
 learning, and that the same may be 
 amply endowed and enfranchised 
 with the same privileges, dignities, 
 and immunities enjoyed by the 
 American Colleges and European 
 Universities, We do grant, enact, or 
 dain, and declare, and it is hereby 
 granted, enacted, ordained, and de 
 clared, that the College estate, the 
 estates, persons, and families of the 
 President and Professors, for the 
 time being, lying and being within 
 this Colony, with the persons of the 
 
 tutors, graduates, and students, dur 
 ing their residence, shall be freed and 
 exempted from all taxes, serving on 
 juries, and menial services : And that 
 the persons aforesaid, together with 
 those that shall have received the 
 degree of Bachelor of Arts, or any 
 of the higher degrees, and the di 
 ploma thereof, shall be exempted 
 from bearing arms, impress, and mil 
 itary service. 
 
 And furthermore, for establishing 
 the perpetuity of this Corporation, 
 and in case that at any time here 
 after, through oversight, or other 
 wise through misapprehensions and 
 mistaken constructions of the pow- 
 
 President and Secretary, and of all 
 the Professors 
 
 thereof " omitted. 
 
 [This clause on exemption from tax 
 ation was changed by the General 
 Assembly, at its February session, in 
 1863, the Corporation of Brown Uni 
 versity consenting, as follows : " The 
 estates, persons, and families of the 
 President and Professors for the time 
 being, and of their successors in of 
 fice, shall not hereafter be freed and 
 exempted from taxes for more than 
 the amount of ten thousand dollars 
 for each of such officers ; his estates, 
 person, and family included."] 
 " graduates " omitted, 
 residence at the College, 
 
 And that the persons aforesaid shall 
 be exempted from bearing arms, 
 impresses, and military services, ex 
 cept in case of an invasion. 
 
480 APPENDIX, 
 
 ers, liberties, and franchises herein 
 contained, any laws should be en 
 acted, or any matters done and 
 transacted by this Corporation con 
 trary to the tenor of this charter, it 
 is hereby enacted, ordained, and de 
 clared, that all such laws, acts, and 
 doings shall be in themselves null 
 and void : Yet, nevertheless, the same 
 shall not, in any courts of law, or by 
 the General Assembly, be deemed, 
 taken, interpreted, or ajudged into 
 an avoidance, defeasance, or forfeit 
 ure of this Charter; but that the 
 same shall be and remain unhurt, 
 inviolate, and entire, unto the said 
 Corporation, in perpetual succession; 
 which Corporation may, at all times 
 and forever hereafter, proceed and 
 continue to act: And all their acts, 
 conformable to the powers, tenor, 
 true intent and meaning of the char 
 ter, shall be and remain in full force 
 and validity ; the nullity and avoid 
 ance of any such illegal acts to the 
 contrary in any wise notwithstand 
 ing. 
 
 And lastly, We, the Governor and 
 Company aforesaid, do, for ourselves 
 and for our successors,forever hereby 
 enact, grant, and confirm unto the 
 . said Trustees and Fellows, and to 
 their successors, that this Charter 
 of incorporation, and every part 
 thereof, shall be good and available 
 in all things in the law, according to 
 our true intent and meaning: And 
 shall be constructed, reputed, and 
 adjudged, in all cases, most favora 
 bly on the behalf and for the best 
 benefit and behoof of the said Trus 
 tees and Fellows, and their succes 
 sors, so as most effectually to an 
 swer the valuable ends of this useful 
 institution. 
 
 In full testimony of which grant, 
 
APPENDIX. 481 
 
 and of all the articles and matters Signed and sealed at Newport, the 
 
 therein contained, the said Governor twenty-fourth day of October, in the 
 and Company do hereby order, that year of our Lord One Thousand 
 
 this act shall be signed by the Gov- [ >l] Seven Hundred and Sixty-five, 
 
 ernor and Secretary, and sealed and in the fifth year of His Majesty s 
 
 with the public seal of this Colony, Reign, George the Third, by the 
 
 and registered in the Colony Rec- grace of God, of Great Britain, etc., 
 
 ords : And that the same, or an ex- King. 
 
 emplification thereof, shall be a suf- SAMUEL WARD, Governor. 
 
 cient warrant to the said Corporation EDWARD THURSTON, Jr., 
 
 to hold, use, and exercise all the Deputy Secretary. 
 
 powers, franchises, and immunities 
 herein contained. 
 
 STEPHEN HOPKINS, Governor. 
 
 HENRY WARD, Secretary. 1 
 
 On the back of the original draft of the Charter, from which the forego 
 ing has been copied, is written, " For the Rev. Dr. Cha. Chauncy, Boston," 
 in Dr. Stiles s handwriting, and also the following remarks, intended evi 
 dently for Mr. Chauncy s benefit : 
 
 " This Charter was presented to the Assembly Aug. 1763 ; recopied, 
 with some alterations by the Baptists, in October; and passed the Assembly 
 February 1764. Principal alterations were : 
 
 1. By omitting To all people, etc., Greeting, in the initiatory, address, 
 the subsequent insertion in the body of the Charter, " Now, therefore, know 
 ye," is an impropriety in clerkship. 
 
 2. The Baptists have shown a greater affection for all other denomina 
 tions than for the Congregationalists. 
 
 3. Instead of eight or a majority of Congregationalists in the branch of 
 the Fellowship, according to the original agreement, they have inserted 
 eight Baptists; thus assuming a majority of about two thirds in both 
 branches, hereby absorbing the whole power and government of the Col 
 lege, and thus, by the immutability of the numbers, establishing it a party 
 college more explicitly and effectually than any college upon the conti 
 nent. This is the most material alteration. 
 
 4. Most of what is contained between the marginal crotchets in page 6 
 is omitted; and the whole paragraph for securing the freedom of education 
 with respect to religion, so mutilated as effectually to enable and empower 
 
 i These signatures were added to the document by the author. Not having 
 passed the General Assembly, it could not, of course, be signed and sealed. 
 -11 
 
482 APPENDIX. 
 
 the Baptists to practise the arts of insinuation, and proselyting upon the 
 youth by private instruction, without the request of the parents." 
 
 These remarks are by the author of the original draft of the Charter of 
 Brown University. What "original agreement" was violated by the 
 adoption of the present Charter, in what respects Brown University is es 
 tablished " a party college more explicitly and effectually than any college 
 upon the continent," referring of course to the six colleges in existence in 
 the year 1704 (see page 38), and how the paragraph pertaining to religious 
 freedom and sectarian differences of opinion "enables and empowers the 
 Baptists to practise the arts of insinuation and proselyting," we leave to the 
 judgment and candor of our readers to decide. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 ABBOT, Daniel, former owner of part 
 of College lot, 115. 
 
 ABOLITION of the slave trade, Dissent 
 ers in England petition for, 407. 
 
 ABOLITION SOCIETY OP R. I., Moses 
 Brown one of founders, 174. 
 
 ABRAHAM, 182; covenant with, 255-6, 
 320. 
 
 ABRIDGMENTS AND ABRIDGERS, de 
 spised by Gov. Hopkins, 368. 
 
 ACADEMY, Manning proposes to estab 
 lish in Kentucky, 357, 367. 
 
 ACADEMICAL FEATHERS, 188. 
 
 ACADEMICAL HONORS, mode of con 
 ferring, 214. See also HONORARY. 
 
 ACT FOR THE RELIEF OF R. I. COL 
 LEGE, passed by Congress, April 16, 
 1800, 3S8. 
 
 ADAMS, John, delegate to first Con- 
 gres?, 237; opposes the Baptists in 
 conference, 238; an admirer of Dr. 
 Stillman, 133. 
 
 ADAMS, Samuel, delegate to first Con 
 gress, 237. 
 
 ADDRESSES, SERMONS, etc., extracts: 
 address from Baptist church, Phila 
 delphia, respecting Winchester, 333; 
 address of Warren Association to 
 their friends and countrymen, 320; 
 address of Corporation to King of 
 France, 301; Burges s address before 
 Federal Adelphi, 305; Manning s ad 
 dress in behalf of Corporation to Gco. 
 Washington, 434; Washington s re 
 ply, 435; Manning s charge to gradu 
 ating class of 1771, 193; to class of 
 1789, 425; Doggett s 
 
 oration on Manning, 456 ; Robert Hall 
 on death of Ryland, 23; Fobes s ser 
 mon on the death of Manning, 452; 
 Stillman s sermon on death of Nicho 
 las Brown, 158. 
 
 AFFLICTIONS, necessary, 210; will not 
 alone wean from the world, 213. 
 
 AGREEMENT between contending par 
 ties in Baptist church, Providence, 
 154. 
 
 AGRARIAN LAW, to prevent monopo 
 lies of land, 359; to set bounds to 
 an insatiable thirst for " realizing," 
 360. 
 
 ALDEN, Abner, graduates in class of 
 1787,400; inclined to fill the place of 
 a tutor, 448; master of the famous 
 school at Raynham, 401. 
 
 ALDEN, John, and Priscilla Mullins, of 
 whom Longfellow sings, 401. 
 
 ALDEN, Noah, represents Bellingham 
 church at first meeting of Warren 
 Association, 75; Trustee of Baptist 
 Education Fund, 316; Anti-Federal 
 delegate to Mass. Convention, 406. 
 
 ALEXANDER, Cosmo, Scotch artist, 
 of Edinburgh, painted Manning s 
 portrait, 459. 
 
 ALIBONE S Dictionary of Authors, cited, 
 
 ALISON, Hugh, classmate of Manning, 
 
 33. 
 
 ALISON, Mr. of Bordentown, 277, 411. 
 ALLEN, Richard, on singing, 179. 
 ALLEN, Isaac, classmate of Manning 
 
 and valedictorian, 33. 
 Commencement ALLISON, Dr. Burgess, name suggested 
 
484 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 by Stillman, as successor of Manning, 
 453. 
 
 ALMY, William, son-in-law of Moses 
 Brown, 175. 
 
 AMERICA, settlements on uncultivated 
 lands. 359; Granville Sharp s interest 
 in, 362; fair daughters of, to banish 
 foreign articles from their dress, 400 ; 
 dialogue on prospects of, 412; grow 
 ing greatness and prosperity of, 442. 
 
 AMERICAN ACADEMY OF ARTS AND 
 SCIENCES, 162, 260. 
 
 AMERICAN ARMY, increased by Con 
 gress, 140. 
 
 AMERICAN BAPTIST ALMANAC, cited, 
 239. 
 
 AMERICAN BAPTIST MISSIONARY UN 
 ION, jubilee meeting, 239. 
 
 AMERICAN BAPTIST CHURCHES, Rip- 
 pon s Register, intended for, 441. 
 
 AMERICAN JENNER, Dr. Waterhouse 
 the, 299. 
 
 AMERICAN QUARTERLY REGISTER, ci 
 ted, 6. 
 
 AMERICAN REVOLUTION, of God, 318. 
 
 AMERICAN WAR, John Brown a leader 
 in, 16G; Smith s letters during his 
 service in, as chaplain, 139-142; Man 
 ning s history of the times during, 
 311-317; Gordon the historian of, 421. 
 
 AMERICANS, crimes towards their cred 
 itors, 423. 
 
 ANABAPTISTS, settle in Providence, 
 144 ; College represented as a nest of, 
 192. Sec BAPTISTS. 
 
 ANECDOTES: John Brown, 170; Nich 
 olas Brown, 156; John Gano, 35; mo 
 ther of Stephen Gano, 364; Manning, 
 259, 260, 300, 342, 379, 404; llezekiah 
 Smith, 138; Washington and Dr. 
 Rogers, 94; Washington and Thom 
 as Mullett, 310; Washington and his 
 honorary degree, 436. 
 
 AMX-DOTES of the College, 232. See 
 NARRATIVE. 
 
 ANGELL, Deborah, married to Presi 
 dent Messer, 410. 
 
 ANNIVERSARY of Independence, in 
 1779, 276. 
 
 ANNIVERSARIES, Commencement, 87. 
 
 ANNUAL expenses of a College student 
 in 1788, 406. 
 
 ANTIETAM, Gen. Rodman fell at battle 
 of, 397. 
 
 ANTI-FEDERALISTS, enemies of the 
 "New Constitution," 403; Maxcy s 
 Fourth-of-July oration sarcastic upon, 
 402. 
 
 ANTI-PEDOBAPTIST. See BAPTIST. 
 
 ANTI-TRINITARIANISM, 223. 
 
 ANTI-TRINITARIANS, growth of, in 
 England, 212. 
 
 APOSTASY of Winchester, 327; in re 
 ligion during the war, 312. 
 
 APPEAL to the Public for Religious Lib 
 erty, 238. 
 
 AQUIDAY, Isle of, Rhode Island, 144. 
 
 ARISTOCRATIC OPPRESSION, landed 
 possessions tend to, 359. 
 
 ARMENIANS and Universalists, 328. 
 
 ARNOLD, Benedict, Ward serves under, 
 193. 
 
 ARNOLD, James, manager of church 
 lottery, 228. 
 
 ARNOLD, Jonathan, delegate to Con 
 gress, 167; drafts petition to Congress 
 for damages done to College edifice, 
 290. 
 
 ARNOLD, Lyndon, appointed tutor, 437. 
 
 ARNOLD, Oliver, Attorney General of 
 Rhode Island, 97. 
 
 ARNOLD, Richard J., 171. 
 
 ARNOLD, Thomas, on town committee, 
 to draft petition to Congress, 425. 
 
 ARNOLD, Welcome, member of school 
 committee, 419; on town committee 
 to draft petition to Congress, 425; on 
 committee to superintend Manning s 
 funeral, 451. 
 
 ARNOLD S History of Rhode Island, ci 
 ted, 64, 65, 82, 87, 170, 399. 
 
 ARTICLES of Confederation, inadequate 
 to purposes of government, 378. 
 
 ASH, Dr. John, of Pershore, England, 
 worthy of College honors, 100; Dr. 
 Richards preaches for as an assistant, 
 445. 
 
 ASHFIELD, oppression of the Baptists 
 in, 80, 185, 204 ; stopped by order of the 
 English Government through the in 
 fluence of Dr. Stennett, 217, 220. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 485 
 
 ASHFOUD, Conn., 231. 
 
 ATONEMENT, sermon on, in opposition 
 to views of Priestley, 415. 
 
 ATWELL, Amos M., valedictorian of 
 class of 1788, 412. 
 
 AUGUSTINE, enmity against exhibited 
 in Eobinson s History of Baptism, 439. 
 
 BABCOCK, Joshua, present at first meet 
 ing of Corporation, 64; at meeting to 
 determine final location of College, 
 110; Major-General of Rhode Island 
 Militia, 66. 
 
 BACKUS, Isaac, present at early meet 
 ings of Corporation, 67; letter to Dr. 
 Gill respecting Manning, 71; clerk 
 of first meeting of Warren Associa 
 tion, 74 ; manuscript minutes, 74 ; pres 
 ent at meeting to determine final lo 
 cation of College, 110; on committee 
 to wait upon Manning, 112 ; statement 
 respecting Chad Brown incorrect, 
 144; appointed to collect materials for 
 history of Baptists, 204 ; agent of Bap 
 tist churches, appointed to attend 
 Congress of delegates at Philadelphia, 
 236; journey to Philadelphia, 237; 
 present at meeting of Corporation 
 in 1782, 289; trustee of Baptist Edu 
 cation Fund, 316; appointed on com 
 mittee of grievances by Warren As 
 sociation, 330; curious fact concern 
 ing first volume of Church History, 
 376, 386j delegate to Massachusetts 
 Convention, and one of the most 
 powerful men of Anti-Federal party, 
 404; copies and publishes Manning s 
 charge to class of 1789, 425; writes to 
 Dr. Rippon announcing death of 
 Manning, 455; allusions to in Man 
 ning s correspondence, 212, 222, 310, 
 324; in Preface, 5; Church History 
 of New England, cited, 61, 62, 79, 81, 
 153, 235, 289, 427, 444; biographical 
 sketch, 130-132. See LETTERS. 
 
 BADGER, Moses, member of school 
 committee, 419. 
 
 BALDWIN, Sylvester, nuncupative wil 
 proved by Chad Brown, 143. 
 
 BALDWIN, Thomas, trustee of Baptist 
 Education Fund, 316; Manning una 
 41* 
 
 ble to attend his installation, 437; 
 Baldwin, Still man, and Smith preach 
 ers of the " Commencement ser 
 mons," 90. 
 
 BALL, Mr., of Philadelphia, 279. 
 BALOW, Baptist minister in Richmond, 
 
 N. H., 186. 
 
 BAPTIST CHUKCII, PROVIDENCE, old 
 est in America, 178 ; Roger Williams, 
 Chad Brown and descendants,143-176; 
 mode of worship in early times, 148, 
 226; history, in 1770, and Manning s 
 connection with, 178-181; reasons for 
 not uniting at first with Warren As 
 sociation, 290; glorious revival in 
 1774-5,180, 246; revival in 1790, 432, 
 437; Manning declines the pastoral 
 care, 381, 382 ; Ilezekiah Smith desired 
 as successor, 383, 432; composed of 
 some most wealthy men in State, 381 ; 
 Manning resigns the pastoral care 
 and preaches farewell sermon, 449; 
 Dr. Gano s connection with, 35,365; 
 large number of communicants, 366. 
 BAPTIST MEETING-HOUSE, PROVI 
 DENCE, old house built in 1726, de 
 scription of, 226; present house built 
 in 1774-1775, account of, 225-230; John 
 Brown " the committee-man," 168; 
 monument of Joseph Brown s skill as 
 an architect, 163; engraved for Rip- 
 pon s Register, English astonished at 
 steeple, 440. 
 
 BAPTIST CHURCHES: Ashford, Ct., 
 234; Boston (First), 134, 188; New 
 York, 35; Haverhill, 136; Lanjloffau, 
 Wales, 443; London (Dr. Gill s), 120, 
 323; Pennepek, 274; Philadelphia, 44, 
 92, 276, 277, 279, 331, 333-335 ; Swanzey, 
 103; Warren, 68-71, 103; Wrentham, 
 105. 
 
 BAPTIST, committee appointed by War 
 ren Association to prepare catechism, 
 291; College opposed because of im 
 portance to cause, 319; government 
 of churches, 72; churches in New Eng 
 land steadfast, 328 ; good order, learn 
 ing, and respectability of churches 
 much owing to Manning, 459; clergy 
 of New England loyal, 323; liberal 
 scheme of the College without a par- 
 
480 
 
 I N D E X . 
 
 alel, 47; origin of Education Fund. 
 316; interest in England more flour 
 ishing than Presbyterian or Inde 
 pendent, 325; zeal and liberality of 
 laymen of Providence, 120; Ryland s 
 list of educated ministers in England, 
 218; number of ministers in England 
 and Wales, 216; jubilee of Mission 
 ary Union at Philadelphia, 239 ; Col 
 lege instrumental in promoting prin 
 ciples, and adding respectability to 
 the profession, 314, 318; whole con 
 gregations of Congregationalists em 
 brace the principles, 346; youth to be 
 educated at Harvard from the Hollis 
 funds, 41; Maxcy s election to Presi 
 dency of Union College objected to 
 because a, 402. 
 
 BAPTIST SOCIETY or denomination 
 satisfied with the final location of the 
 College, 112, 114; largely indebted 
 to Williams, Backus, Smith, Stillman, 
 and Manning, 105, 130; Stillman s in 
 terest in, 132, 133 ; Roger Williams in 
 strumental in planting in America, 
 147; Manning well acquainted with 
 state of, 195; regards literature with 
 a more favorable eye through influ 
 ence of the College, 308 ; disposed to 
 aid the College, but unable through 
 poverty, 315; increases more rapidly 
 than any other denomination, 328; 
 especially in Virginia, the Middle and 
 Southern States, 428; gains ground in 
 England, 386; Winchester excluded 
 from fellowship of,333; Brooks s paper 
 on growth of, during last half centu 
 ry, 238 ; largest evangelical denomin 
 ation in United States with a single 
 exception, 233, 239. 
 
 BAPTISTS, alone originated the College, 
 48; represented at first meeting of 
 Corporation, G6; Rhode Island the 
 land of, 42 ; catholicity of well-nigh 
 cost them loss of charter, 47; early 
 organization of in New England, 73; 
 confession of faith, 80; growing un 
 friendliness towards, 41; advocates of 
 civil and religious freedom, 39, 81, 
 136 ; not specially friendly as a denom 
 ination to learning, 124, 462; have 
 
 mar.ifcstcd indifference to their his 
 tory, 5; "poor, despised, and op 
 pressed," 58,315; and Congregation 
 alists, dispute between, 38, 183; in 
 Virginia and North Carolina, 182; op 
 pressions of, by the " Standing Or 
 der," 185, 186, 204, 217, 220, 231, 330, 
 331, 339, 349; appoint day of fasting 
 and prayer in consequence of oppres 
 sions, 186; prejudices against greatly 
 abated, 328 ; controversy between and 
 the Independents of England, 442, 443 ; 
 statistics of in America, in 176-1, 238. 
 
 BAPTISM, by immersion only, a tlivine 
 institution, 122; controversial letter 
 on, 253; validity of, administered by 
 an unbaptized or Pedobaptist minis 
 ter, 429, 431. See INFAJST-SPRINK- 
 LING. 
 
 BARKER, Peleg, present at first meet 
 ing of Corporation, 64; at meeting to 
 determine final location of College, 
 110. 
 
 BARKER, married into the Brown fami 
 ly, 155. 
 
 BARRELS, Manning s papers deposited 
 in, 7. 
 
 BARTLETT, J. R., efforts in obtaining 
 collection of portraits, 397; Colonial 
 Records, cited, 167, 197; Bibliography 
 of Rhode Island, cited, 8. 
 
 BARTON, Mr., at llopewell, 278. 
 
 BARTON, Wm., captor of Major-Gencral 
 Prescott, 396. 
 
 BAYLE S DICTIONARY, presented to 
 College Library, 370. 
 
 BEACH, Landlord, 268. 
 
 BEACON KILL, Boston, 134. 
 
 BEDBUGS, prevent sleep, 281. 
 
 BEDDOME, Benj., honorary degree con 
 ferred on, 128. 
 
 BEDGEWOOD, Nicholas, assistant to Oli 
 ver Hart, 37. 
 
 BELIEVER : S BAPTISM, 71, 182. 
 
 BELL, Capt., betrothed to Miss Howard, 
 251. 
 
 BELL of Baptist meeting-house, Provi 
 dence, motto on, 230. 
 
 BELNAP, Isaac, 281. 
 
 BELTON, Joseph, member of first grad 
 uating class, 88. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 487 
 
 BENEDICT, David, married daughter of 
 Stephen Gano, 366; error in notice of 
 Chad Brown, 144; History of the 
 Baptist Denomination, cited, 58, 74, 
 144, 152, 353; services acknowledged 
 in Preface, 8. 
 
 BENEFICENT CONGREGATION A L SOCI 
 ETY, Providence, 127. 
 BENNETT, Job, connection with history 
 of College Charter, 47, 54; present at 
 first meeting of Corporation, 64; at 
 meeting to determine final location 
 of College, 110. 
 
 BENEVOLENCE of Nicholas Brown s dis 
 position, 156; Manning s views of, 353. 
 BENSON, Francis, 394; subscribes for a 
 
 set of Gordon s History, 424. 
 BENSON, George, friend of Thos. Mack- 
 ancss, 353; on committee to superin 
 tend Manning s funeral, 451. 
 BERKELEY, Bishop, description of New 
 port, 113; portrait in Ilhode Island 
 Hall, 397. 
 
 BERRIDGE, John, Manning reviews his 
 " Christian World Unmasked," 253- 
 258. 
 BIBLE, records the sins and mistakes 
 
 of good men, 193. 
 
 BIBLE SOCIETY, of Rhode Island, Mo 
 ses Brown a founder of, 174. 
 BIB BIOGRAPHICAL " morceau " respect 
 ing Backus s History, 372, 376. 
 BIDWEL, Widow, 26(5, 286. 
 BIGGS, Rev. Mr., recommended for an 
 
 " academical feather," 217. 
 BILL OF RIGHTS, Massachusetts, 239. 
 BINNEY, Capt. Barnabas, of Boston, 157 
 BINNEY, Barnabas, son of Capt. Barna 
 bas, " meek young Christian," 159 
 graduates in 1774 with valedictorj 
 honors, 233; sketch of, 233, 234. 
 BINNEY, Avis, daughter of Capt. Bar 
 nabas, second wife of Nicholas Brown 
 157. 
 
 BINNEY, Hon. Horace, son of Barnabas 
 Nestor of the Pennsylvania bar, 233 
 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES : Rev. Isaa 
 Backus, 130-132; Barnabas Biunej 
 233,234; Chad Brown, 143-150; Joh 
 Brown, 151, 152; Elder James Brown 
 152-155; James Brown, 155, 156; Nicl 
 
 olas Brown, 156-161; Prof. Joseph 
 Brown, 1G2-166 ; John Brown, 166-173 ; 
 Moses Brown, 173-176; Hon. Nicholas 
 Brown, 394-397; Hon. James Burrill, 
 LL.D., 413-414; Dr. Solomon Drowne, 
 346, 347; Rev. Isaac Eaton, 25, 26; 
 Hon. Samuel Eddy, 401 ; Rev. Morgan 
 Edwards, 43-45; Gov. Stephen Hop 
 kins, 65, 338, 3G9; Hon. David Howell. 
 85, 86; Rev. John Gano, 34-36; Rev. 
 Stephen Gano, M.D., 364-3G6; Wil 
 liam Gordon, D.D., 387; Hon. Daniel 
 Jenckes, 51, 52; Samuel Jones. D.D., 
 274; Jonathan Maxcy, D.D., 401-403; 
 Asa Messer, D.D., 409-411 ; Rev. Benj. 
 Miller, 26, 27; Hezekiah Smith, D.D., 
 135-142; Rev. Isaac Stelle, 36; Sam 
 uel Stillman, D.D., 132-135; Rev. 
 William Richards, LL.D., 445-447; 
 John Rippon, D.D., 323; Hon. Ashcr 
 Robbins, 329; Prof. William Rogers, 
 D.D., 91-96; Rev. Charles Thompson, 
 103, 104; Rev. Augustus M. Toplady, 
 202-204; Gen. James Mitchell Var- 
 num, 96-102; Dr. Benj. Waterhouse, 
 299, 300 ; Rev. William Williams, 104- 
 106; Jemima Wilkinson, 312; Rev. 
 Elhanan Winchester, 333-335. 
 BISHOPS, popular right of electing, 361. 
 BISSETT, George, present at early meet 
 ings of Corporation, 67. 
 BITTERNESS of Congregationalists to 
 wards College, 190-192. 
 BLACK WELL, John, educated at the 
 Hopewell Academy, 42; Manning 
 visits, 272. 
 
 BLAIR, Rev. Dr., elected to the Presi 
 dency of College of New Jersey, 27. 
 BLAKE S Biographical Dictionary, ci 
 ted, 401. 
 
 BLASDEL, Isaac, baptized, 123. 
 BLOOD, Caleb, on committee of griev 
 ances, 330; removed to Vermont, 409. 
 BLOSS, Abraham, represents Attleboro 
 church at first meeting of Warren 
 Association, 75. 
 
 BOHEMIA, a monarchial despotism, 359. 
 BOLINGBKOKE on History, text-book 
 
 in College, 305. 
 
 BONNELL, Levi, educated at the Hope- 
 well Academy, 42. 
 
488 
 
 INDEX 
 
 BOOKS, imported for the Library, Man 
 ning disappointed in price of, 36i. 
 
 BOOTH, Abraham, character and works, 
 223; translation of Abbadie s Treatise 
 on the Divinity of Christ, a " master 
 ly performance," 385; Fcdobaptism 
 Examined, a laborious and important 
 work, 341, 355, 433; Essay on the 
 Kingdom of Christ, lays the axe to 
 the root of infant-baptism. 428; enti 
 tled to assistance from friends in 
 America, 427; believes in the validity 
 of baptism by immersion administered 
 by a Pedobaptist minister, 418. See 
 LETTERS. 
 
 BORDEN, Joseph, dwelling-house burnt 
 by British, 277. 
 
 BORDENTOWN, ravages of British 
 troops in. 277. 
 
 BOSTON, ravages of British troops in, 
 140; account of Dr. Stillman s meet 
 ing-house, 134; newspapers, "inge 
 nious to provoke," 338. 
 
 BOULTON, William, honorary degree 
 conferred on by the College, 89. 
 
 BOURN, Benj., member of school com 
 mittee, 419; on town committee to 
 draft petition to Congress, 425. 
 
 EOWEN, Benj., house of, 119. 
 
 BOWEN, Ephraim, distinguished physi 
 cian in Providence, 64; present at 
 meeting to determine final location of 
 College, 110. 
 
 BOWEN, Ephraim. actor in affair of the 
 Gaspee, 172. 
 
 BOWEN, Jabez, present at early meet 
 ings of Corporation, G7, 110; at meet 
 ing iii 1780, 283 ; honorary degree con 
 ferred on, 89; Chancellor, 435, 451; 
 on committee to draft letter to Benj. 
 Franklin, 331; subscriber for set of 
 Gordon s History, 424; member of 
 school committee, 419. 
 
 BOWEN, Oliver, owner of part of the 
 original College lot, 116. 
 
 BOWEN, Dr. Pardon, graduate in class 
 of 1775, 242. 
 
 BOWEN, Wm., honorary degree con 
 ferred on, 128. 
 
 BOWERS, David, 277. 
 
 | BOWERS, Widow, married to J. Jenckes. 
 
 398. 
 
 BOWLES, Capt., 266, 286. 
 
 DOYLE, John, printer in Boston, 238. 
 
 BEAT S meeting-house, N. J., Manning 
 preaches in, 271. 
 
 BRICK SCHOOLHOUSE, Providence, 119, 
 193, 419. 
 
 BRISTOL ACADEMY, Llewelyn be 
 queaths his library to, 191. 
 
 BRISTOL EDUCATION SOCIETY, make 
 valuable donation of books to the 
 College, 339; sketch of, 370; referred 
 to, 357. 
 
 BRISTOL COUNTY, College edifice to be 
 erected in, 108, 110. 
 
 BRITISH,. probable rupture with Gov 
 ernment, 114; first blood shed in war 
 of Independence, 171; troops take 
 possession of Newport, 242; land at 
 Elizabethtown Point, 271; ravages in 
 Danbury, Ct., 283; fleet at Stony 
 Point, with five hundred prisoners, 
 taken by Wayne, 278; encroachments 
 of Parliament, 233; inhumanity. 283. 
 
 BRITAIN, Mr., calls on Manning, 277. 
 
 BROTHER, Esquire, 284. 
 
 BROTHERLY love and kindness, more 
 prevalent, 2G2, 238. 
 
 BROOKFIELD, Mass., Congregational- 
 ists of oppress the Baptists, 331. 
 
 BROOKS, Kendall, paper on growth of 
 Baptist denomination, 239. 
 
 BROWN UNIVERSITY, century elapsed 
 since founded, 5; Morgan Edwards 
 prime mover in originating, 45; sev 
 enth in America in order of date, 38; 
 account of origin, 39; spirit of in re 
 lation to religion, 46; and the War 
 ren Association, 82; Commencement 
 anniversaries, 87; "Hope College" 
 and "Manning Hall" erected, 395; 
 engraving of and of University 
 Hall," 107; amount of benefactions 
 and bequests from ^Nicholas Brown, 
 395; named in honor of Nicholas 
 Brown, GO, 157, 895; account of por 
 traits in Pdiode Island Hall, 396; 
 Richards, of England, bequeaths his 
 library to, 447; enters upon the sec- 
 
INDEX. 
 
 480 
 
 ond century of its existence, 463. See 
 COLLEGE and MANNING. 
 BROWN FAMILY, and ancestors, ac 
 count of, 143-176; no painter s skill 
 transferred their features to canvas, 
 176. 
 
 BROWN, Chad, ancestor of the Brown 
 family, 143; statements of writers re 
 specting date of his arrival in Prov 
 idence incorrect, 144; "first Baptist 
 elder in Rhode Island," 115; College 
 building erected on his home-lot, 115, 
 146; and Roger Williams, 145, 147, 
 150; biographical sketch, 143-150. 
 BROWN, Elizabeth, wife of Chad, 144. 
 BROWN, John, eldest son of Chad, 151; 
 marries daughter of Obadiah Holmes, 
 the "first Baptist martyr" in New 
 England, 151; biographical sketch, 
 151, 152. 
 
 BROWN, Martha, daughter of John, 
 married to Governor Joseph Jenckes, 
 152. 
 
 BROWN, Daniel, brother of John, 152. 
 BROWN, Elder James, second son of 
 John, pastor of the Baptist church, 
 152,153; liberal and catholic spirit of, 
 154; biographical sketch, 152-154. 
 BROWN, James, son of Elder James, 
 and father of the " Four Brothers," 
 155; agreement in controversy on 
 church communion, 154; biographi 
 cal sketch, 155, 156. 
 BROWN, Capt. James, eldest son of 
 
 James, died in Virginia, 156. 
 BROWN, Mary, daughter of James, mar 
 ried to Dr. David Vanderlight, 156. 
 BROWN, Nicholas, oldest of the " Four 
 Brothers," 156; present at first meet 
 ing of the Corporation, 64; distin 
 guished merchant, 66; present at 
 meeting to determine final location 
 of the College, 110; Hezekiah Smith 
 a welcome and frequent guest at his 
 house, 138; on committees of Baptis 
 Society, 227; appointed by Genera 
 Assembly chairman of committee to 
 manage lottery for meeting-house 
 228; Manning writes to, from Phila 
 delphia, 279; present at meeting o 
 Corporation in 1780, 288; mentionec 
 
 by Dr. Gordon in correspondence, 
 394; loses his new-born son, 398; sub 
 scriber for set of Gordon s History, 
 425 ; on town committee to draft pe 
 tition to Congress, 425; sickness of, 
 437; death and funeral, 158, 448; men 
 tion of, in connection with death of 
 Manning, 450; biographical sketch, 
 156-161. See LETTERS. 
 BROWN, Joey, daughter of Nicholas, 
 sickness and death, 382, 337, 347, 
 351. 
 
 BROWN, Moses, youngest son of Nicho 
 las, graduates in class of 1790, 435; 
 early death, 436. 
 
 BROWN, Hope, daughter of Nicholas, 
 married to Thomas Poynton Ives, 
 157; "Hope College" named after, 
 52, 395. 
 
 BROWN, Hon. Nicholas, son of Nicho 
 las, descendant on his mother s side 
 of Richard Scott, 147 ; marries daugh 
 ter of Benjamin Stelle, 36; graduates 
 in class of 1786, 394; name of Rhode 
 Island College changed to Brown 
 University in honor of, 52, 66, 157, 
 395; full-length portrait of in Rhode 
 Island Hall, 396; biographical sketch, 
 394-397. See LETTERS. 
 BROWN, John Carter, son of Hon. 
 Nicholas, has complete set of minutes 
 of Warren Association, 82. 
 SROWN. Joseph, second of the " Four 
 Brothers," 162; present at early meet 
 ings of Corporation, 67; at meeting 
 to determine final location of the Col 
 lege, 110; honorary degree conferred 
 on, 128; and the transit of Venus, 
 165, 166; on committee for building 
 meeting-house, 227; architect, 163, 
 230; present at meeting of Corpora 
 tion in 1780, 288 ; chairman of commit 
 tee to draft petition to Congress for 
 damages to College edifice, 290, 292; 
 appointed on committee to make cat 
 alogue of books, 298; chosen Profes 
 sor^ f Experimental Philosophy, 330; 
 engages to give lectures without 
 charge, 331, 332; has shock of apo 
 plexy, 347; indisposition of, heavy 
 stroke to church and College, 350; 
 
490 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 death and funeral, 164, 371 ; biograph 
 ical sketch, 162-166. 
 
 BROWN, Mary, oldest daughter of Jo 
 seph, married to Dr. Gano. 164, 366; 
 funeral sermon of, preached by Dr. 
 Maxcy, 164. 
 
 BROWN, Eli/a, daughter of Joseph, mar 
 ried to Richard Ward, 164. 
 
 BROWN, Obaciiah, son of Joseph, 164 ; ad 
 mitted to degree of A.B. in 1782, 289. 
 
 BROWN, John, the third of the " Four 
 Brothers," 163; leader in Khode Isl 
 and in war of the Revolution, 167; 
 connection with the destruction of the 
 " schooner Gaspee," 170-173; and 
 Moses purchase the home-lot of their 
 ancestor Chad for the College, 115, 
 116; lays the corner-stone of the Col 
 lege building, now " University 
 Hall," 117; elected Treasurer of the 
 Corporation, 242; " the committee- 
 man " for carrying on the building of 
 the Baptist meeting-house, 168, 227, 
 228; farm at Chepachet or Gloucester, 
 266, 286; present at meeting of Cor 
 poration in 1780, 288 ; liberal olTer to 
 Corporation, 298, 314; presents four 
 teen hundred volumes to College Li 
 brary, 338; subscriber for set of Gor 
 don s History, 424; on town commit 
 tee to draft petition to Congress, 425; 
 Manning dines with on day previous 
 to fatal attack of apoplexy, 450; on 
 committee of condolence to wait on 
 Mrs. Manning, 451; secures (in 1800) 
 passage of an act in Congress " for 
 the Relief of the Corporation of 
 Rhode Island College," 388; bio 
 graphical sketch, 166-173. 
 
 BROWN, James, son of John, 170. 
 
 BROWN, Abby, daughter of John, mar 
 ried to John Francis, 170. 
 
 BROWN, Alice, daughter of John, mar 
 ried to James Brown Mason, 170. 
 
 BROWN, Sarah, daughter of John, mar 
 ried to Charles F. llerreshofi", 170. 
 
 BROWN, Moses, youngest of the " Four 
 Brothers," 373; papers of, cited, 115; 
 member of school committee, 419; 
 portrait of, in Rhode Island Hall, 396 ; 
 biographical sketch, 173-176. 
 
 BROWN, Anna, wile of Slcscr, and 
 daughter of Obadiah Brown, 173, 175. 
 
 BROWN, Sarah, daughter of Moses, 
 married to William Almy, 175. 
 
 BROWN, Obadiah, uncle and father-in- 
 law of Moses, 173. 
 
 BROWN AND BENSON,IOSC four thousand 
 dollars by a seizure at Surinam, 398. 
 
 BROWN, Daniel, represents Warren 
 Church at first meeting of the Asso 
 ciation, 75. 
 
 BROWN, Rev. John, of England, wor 
 thy of College honors, 190. 
 
 BROWN, Dr. J. N., article on the Bap 
 tists in New American Cyclopaedia, 
 cited, 239. 
 
 BROWN, Jeremiah, of Ct, 266, 286. 
 
 BROWN, William, present at meeting 
 to determine final location of the 
 College, 110. 
 
 BRUNSWICK, Is . J., injured by the Brit 
 ish, 272. 
 
 BRYANT, William Cullen, " The Ages," 
 cited, 463. 
 
 BRYSON, James, honorary degree con 
 ferred on, 89. 
 
 BUCKLIN, Joseph, actor in affair of 
 Gaspee, 172. 
 
 BUILDING COMMITTEE of College and 
 of church, 115. 227. 
 
 BULL, Capt., of Hartford, 267, 286. 
 
 BULL S IRON-WORKS, 268. 
 
 BULLOCK, Samuel and Daniel, repre 
 sented Second Rehoboth Church at 
 first meeting of Warren Association, 
 75. 
 
 BUNKER HILL, battle of, influence on 
 College Commencement, 242. 
 
 BUNYAN, "good Mr.," Manning sug 
 gests his works as an acceptable pres 
 ent to the Library, 210; works pre 
 sented by Wallin, of London, 212, 221. 
 
 BURDEN, Lizzie, married to Mr. Owen, 
 269. 
 
 BURGES, Tristam, pupil of William 
 Williams, 105; address before the 
 Federal Adelphi, cited, 305; on elo 
 quence of Maxcy, 401 ; portrait of, in 
 Rhode Island Hall, 396. 
 
 BURKE, Edmund, eulogizes John How 
 ard, 120. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 491 
 
 BURKE S ENCYCLOPAEDIA OF HER 
 ALDRY, cited, 143. 
 
 BURGOYNE AND GATES, 141; surreu- 
 der of Gen. Burgoyne s army, 142. 
 
 BURLING AME, Thomas, Jr., 154. 
 
 BURNSIDE, Major-General, full-length 
 portrait of, in Rhode Island Hall, 
 
 1 painted by E. Leutze, 397. 
 
 BURRILL, James, Attorney General of 
 11. 1 , 413; graduate in class of 1788, 
 413; sketch of, 413, 414. 
 
 BUTLER HOSPITAL ASYLUM, Nicholas 
 Brown a benefactor of, 395. 
 
 BUTTON, William, 94. 
 
 CADETS, company at Commencement, 
 
 233. 
 
 CAESAR, " wrote his own commenta 
 ries," 311. 
 
 CAHOON, Daniel, meeting of Baptist 
 society held at his house, 226; mem 
 ber of advisory committee, 227; pres 
 ent at meeting of Corporation in 1780, 
 288. 
 
 CAHOON S family at Woodstock, Man 
 ning visits, 2Go! 
 CALLENDER, Ellis and Elisha, pastors 
 
 of lirst Baptist Church, Boston, 135 
 CALLENDER, John, rcierred to in Pref 
 ace, 5; Historical Discourse, cited, 
 73, 149. 
 
 CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Baptists in op 
 pressed and imprisoned, 331, 349. 
 CANVAS, the Brown family not painted 
 on, 176; 1 resident Maxcy not painted 
 on, 403. 
 
 CARPENTER, Benjamin, 154. 
 CARPENTER, William, represents churcl 
 in Norton at iirst meeting of Warrei 
 Association, 75. 
 
 CARPENTER S HALL, Philadelphia, 237 
 CARTER, John, printer, 1G4. 
 CARYL ; S Exposition upon Job, pre 
 sented to College Library by Gordon 
 387; Lamb s playful remark upon 
 387. 
 CASH, inconceivable scarcity of, 364 
 
 386. 
 
 CASTELL S Lexicon, presented to Li 
 brary by Bristol Education Society 
 370. 
 
 ATHERINE of Braganza, Queen of 
 Charles II., portrait in Rhode Island 
 Hall, 396. 
 
 CATHOLICISM, instances of, 437. 
 
 CATHOLICITY of the Baptists well- 
 nigh cost them loss of charter, 47. 
 
 }HACE, John B., 451. 
 
 HAMBERS CYCLOPAEDIA, presented 
 to Library by Bristol Education Soci 
 ety, 370. 
 
 CHAMPION, Judah, of Litchfield, Man 
 ning preaches for, 268. 
 CHANCELLOR, Stephen Hopkins the 
 first, 64; Jabez Bowenthe second, 67. 
 
 , HANNING, William, of Newport, Rob- 
 bins studies law with, 329. 
 
 JHANNING, William El-cry, portrait 
 in Rhode Island Hall, 397. 
 
 CHAPEL STAGE, speaking on at even 
 ing prayers, 305. 
 
 CHAPLAINS, Baptists, in the American 
 Army: John Gano, 35; Dr. Rogers, 
 92; Charles Thompson, 103; David 
 Jones, 271; William Van Horn, 273; 
 Dr. Smith, 136. 
 
 CHARACTERS, difficulty in describing, 
 158. 
 
 CHARITY, exercise of, 192; should be 
 gin but not end at home, 340. 
 
 CHARLES II., portrait of in Rhode 
 Island llall, 3 ; J6. 
 
 CHARLESTON, attacked by the British, 
 271, 273. 
 
 CHARLESTON BAPTIST ASSOCIATION, 
 founded, 31; plan for raising funds 
 for Rhode Island College, 57, 58. 
 
 CHARLESTOWN NECK, skirmish at, 139. 
 
 CHASE, Mr., neighbor of Manning, 323, 
 325, 326. 
 
 CIIAUNCY, Rev. Dr., 200, 204, 215; 
 book in favor of universal salvation 
 makes many proselytes, 385; Dr. 
 Stiles sends first draft of the College 
 Charter to, with remarks, 481. 
 
 CHILD, Sylvester, present at early 
 meetings of Corporation, 67; at 
 meeting to determine final location 
 of College, 110. 
 
 CHILD, Cromel, 100. 
 
 CHILD, Martha, wife of General Var- 
 num, 100. 
 
402 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 CHINA and East Indies, John Brown 
 first Rhode Island merchant to carry 
 trade to, 166. 
 
 CHRISTIAN FORTITUDE, easier to talk 
 about than to exercise, 408. 
 
 CHRISTIAN LIFE, described by Wal- 
 lin,210. 
 
 CHRISTIAN MINISTRY, not to be en 
 tered upon while a stranger to exper 
 imental religion, 427. 
 
 CHRISTIAN REVIEW, cited, 5. 
 
 CHRISTIAN RELIGION, Gen. Varnum s 
 views of, 101 ; importance and effects 
 of, 426. 
 
 CHRISTIAN WORLD UNMASKED, re 
 viewed by Manning, 253. 
 
 CHRISTIAN UNION, love the only thing 
 essential to, 402. 
 
 CHRONICLE, cited, 233. 
 
 CHURCH OF ENGLAND, relations of to 
 the American Colonies, 39, 255. 
 
 CINCINNATI, Order of at General Var 
 num s funeral, 100. 
 
 CIRCUMCISION, discussed by Manning, 
 53-258. 
 
 CIVIL AND RELIGIOUS LIBERTY, Col 
 lege instrumental in promoting, 309, 
 314, 318; doctrines of better under 
 stood than before the Revolution, 339. 
 
 CIVIL GOVERNMENT, nothing to do 
 with Christ s kingdom, 72, 73. 
 
 CIVIL COMMUNITY, kind of joint ten 
 ancy, 418. 
 
 CIVIL AND RELIGIOUS character of the 
 age, illustrated by Clark and Callen- 
 der, Backus and Manning, 6. 
 
 CLARIDGE on singing in public wor 
 ship, 179. 
 
 CLARK, William, honorary degree 
 conferred on by the College, 89. 
 
 CLARKE, Capt., of Daubury, 283. 
 
 CLARKE, Mr., a mystic, 324. 
 
 CLARKE, Dr. John, founder of New 
 port Colony, 151 ; referred to in Pref 
 ace, 5. 
 
 CLAUDE S ESSAY, proposals concern 
 ing circulated, 326. 
 
 CLAY, Joseph, pastor of First Baptist 
 church in Boston, 135. 
 
 CLEKGY of Connecticut. See CON 
 NECTICUT. 
 
 CLINTON, Gov., of Xc\v York, visits 
 Providence with Washington, 433. 
 
 CLOUGH, Moses, baptized, 122. 
 
 COCHRANE, Surgeon General, Manning 
 meets at West Point, 282. 
 
 CODDINGTON, William, lirst Governor 
 of Rhode Island, 152; portrait in 
 Rhode Island Hall, 396. 
 
 COLBURN, Josiah, represents First Bap 
 tist Church, Boston, at lirst meeting 
 of Warren Association, 75. 
 
 COLE, Benjamin, represents the War- 
 reii church at first meeting of Asso 
 ciation, 75. 
 
 COLE. Robert, 146. 
 
 COLEMAN, printer, of London, 148. 
 
 COLES, Esquire, of Warren, 68. 
 
 COLES, Benjamin, pastor of Baptist 
 church at Ilopewcll, 271; divided 
 about, 278. 
 
 COLLECTION OF PORTRAITS in Rhode 
 Island Hall, 396. 
 
 COLLEGE a "Baptist College," 43; owes 
 its origin to the Philadelphia Associ 
 ation, 43. 56,461; main design to se 
 cure for the Baptist churches an edu 
 cated ministry, 42, 47, 461 ; efforts to 
 raise funds for by the Baptist Asso 
 ciations. 58, 291, 314, 320; begun at 
 Warren, 67; interests to be secured 
 by formation of Warren Association, 
 72; removal to Providence, 111, 118; 
 illustration of early discipline, 128; 
 opposition of Congrcgationalists, 160, 
 188, 190, 199, 319 ; Commencement din 
 ners first provided, 169; dispute be 
 tween Baptists and Congregational- 
 ists an argument against, 183; honors 
 of, 189; liberal and catholic, 193, 262; 
 amount of funds in 1772, 195; regard 
 ed by God with -favor, 197; printed 
 history of recommended for circula 
 tion, 206, 208, 212, 215, 217, 220, 222, 
 232, 250; Manning s detail of facts 
 and instances of ill-will towards, 215; 
 Baptist meeting-house built to accom 
 modate, 227,229; students fine young 
 men," 231 ; revival of religion in, 
 245; interrupted during the war, 243, 
 89,313; efforts to revive College in 
 struction, 288; petition to Congress 
 
INDEX. 
 
 493 
 
 for damages, 292, G48, 370, 388; unable 
 to go on without funds, 297; digest 
 of laws in 1783, 304; text-books, 305 ; 
 Manning seeks in England a benefac 
 tor who will give it a name, 308, 309; 
 funds preserved amidst wreck of pub 
 lic credit, 294,316; promotes Baptist 
 principles and civil and religious lib 
 erty, 193, 309, 314, 318; 200 sterling 
 ordered to be expended for philosoph 
 ical apparatus, 333; receives donation 
 from Bristol Education Society, 369; 
 promises better than at any former 
 period, 335, 337; embarrassed for 
 want of funds, 374, 397; continues to 
 increase, annual expenses of a stu 
 dent, 406, 411 ; Washington and suite 
 visit, 433; "affairs do not prosper," 
 448; Dr. Jones named as Manning s 
 successor, 274, 454; Maxcy appointed, 
 401 ; Messer elected to the Presidency, 
 409; receives from [Nicholas Brown in 
 1792 the gift of five hundred dollars, 
 394; iu 1804, the gift of live thousand 
 dollars, 394; name changed to Brown 
 University, 396. See BROWN UNIVER 
 SITY and MANNING. 
 
 COLLEGE CHARTER, Jenckes s history 
 of, 52; different denominations repre 
 sented in, 46; privileges secured by 
 remarkably ample, 47; one of the best 
 college charters in New England, 
 48; alterations made in Dr. Stiles s 
 draft by committee from Philadel 
 phia, 51; analysis of proceedings in 
 reference to, in 1763, 54; extracts 
 from, illustrating its liberal character, 
 59; referred to, 63, 72, 215; first Char 
 ter opposed by Congregationalists, 
 191 ; Dr. Stiles s original draft found 
 among the files and papers of his 
 church, 53; original document pre 
 sented to the Library by Dr. Sprague, 
 9; first and second Charters published 
 in Appendix, 465; clause exempting 
 professors from taxation changed in 
 1863, by the General Assembly, 479. 
 
 COLLEGE COMMENCEMENT, annual 
 meeting of Warren Association ap 
 pointed to be Tuesday after to accom 
 modate, 79; "Commencement Ser- 
 
 42 
 
 mon," 89; displaced by the "Presi 
 dents Levee," 90; Commencement 
 dimicrs of John Brown, 169; first 
 provided by the College in 1792, 169; 
 account of first Commencement in 
 17G9, 87; 1770, 127; 1771, 193; 1774, 
 233; 1775, 240; 1776, 242; 1783, 295, 
 293; 1786, 394; 1787, 400; 1788, 412; 
 1789,425; 1790,435. 
 
 COLLEGE CORPORATION, first meeting 
 in Sept. 1764, 63 ; character of the 
 twenty -four members present, 64; 
 second meeting, 71 ; meeting at New 
 port respecting location of College, 
 108; final meeting at Warren, 109, 
 111; names of the thirty-five members 
 present, 110; cautious delicacy with 
 which Manning s relations to the 
 Warren church are interfered with, 
 113; special meeting to defeat project 
 for another college, 114; meeting in 
 1777, and no further meeting until 
 1780, 258; meeting in 1780, 287; 1782, 
 289; 1783,295,298; petition to the King 
 of France for patronage, 301 ; recom 
 mend sending to England for dona 
 tions, 296, 338; petition to Congress for 
 damages, 350, 352, 370 ; subscribe 700 
 lawful money for library and appara 
 tus, 308 ; advise Manning to go to Con 
 gress, and appoint Perez Fobes Vice 
 President, 379; notified by Manning 
 to look out for a successor, 449 ; action 
 in reference to Manning s death, 451; 
 vote of in 1794 concerning a Latin or 
 Grammar school, 336; erect a build- 
 in 1810 for its accommodation, 198, 337. 
 
 COLLEGE EDIFICE, erected 011 the 
 home-lot of Chad Brown, 115, 146, 
 150; plans of Nassau Hall, Princeton, 
 adopted by the building committee, 
 116; dimensions, 121, 128; occupied 
 by troops during the war, 243, 289, 
 314, 339; left in a most ruinous con 
 dition, 314, 329; Corporation advance 
 one thousand dollars for repairs, 314; 
 third story finished, 349; two thou 
 sand dollars obtained from Congress 
 to repair damages, 388; house for the 
 President built in 1770, 296. 
 
 COLLEGE OF NEW JERSEY, 26, 27, 38, 
 
494 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 197, 275; laws and customs of in 
 1758, 28-30. 
 
 COLLEGE OF PHILADELPHIA, 26, 93. 
 
 COLLEGES in America, iu 1762, 38 ; and 
 superior places of learning controlled 
 by the " Standing Order," 321. 
 
 COLLINS, Mr., 276. 
 
 COLONIES, determine to unite in de 
 fence of their rights, 236. 
 
 COLUMBIA COLLEGE, New York, 38. 
 
 COMER S MANUSCRIPT DIARY, 73. 
 
 COMMUNION, division of Baptist church 
 respecting, 154, 178, 180. 
 
 CONDY, Jeremiah, present at first meet 
 ing of Corporation, 64; graduate of 
 Harvard, 66; references to, 51, 71, 
 135. 
 
 CONFEDERATION, 378, 402. 
 
 CONGUEGATIONALISTS of New Eng 
 land, and the Baptists, 38, 47-55, 183. 
 188, 190, 204, 215, 331, 346; represented 
 at first meeting of the Corporation 
 64. See PEDOBAPTISTS and STANDING 
 ORDER. 
 
 CONGRESS, passes an " Act for the RelieJ 
 of the Corporation of Rhode Island 
 College," 388. 
 
 CONGRESS OF THE CONFEDERATION, 
 82, 98, 236, 265, 275, 391, 392. 
 
 CONNECTICUT, 209, 244; invasion of by 
 the British, 277 ; makes contributions 
 for relief of Rhode Island, 260; cler 
 gy vote in town meetings, and dired 
 in choice of candidates, 285. 
 
 CONNECTICUT EVANGELICAL 
 ZINE, 267. 
 
 CONNECTICUT FARMS, 34, 272, 281. 
 
 CONNECTICUT MISSIONARY SOCIETY 
 267. 
 
 CONOLLY, Mr., of Philadelphia, 276. 
 
 CONSTITUTION, 167, 298, 391, 403, 404 
 Sec FEDERAL. 
 
 CONSTITUTIONAL LIBERTY, Rhode Isl 
 
 and firm in cause of, 208. 
 CONSUL of France, present at Com 
 
 mencemcnt, 298. 
 
 CONTINENTAL FAST, in 1779, 267. 
 CONTINENTAL FERRY, N. Y., 269, 283 
 CONTROVERSIALIST, Manning a skil 
 
 ful, 253. 
 CONVENTION at Philadelphia, 400, 402 
 
 OOK, Gov., 67, 110, 288. 
 
 BOOMER, John, 70. 
 
 :ORLIS, Capt., 266, 288. 
 
 CORRESPONDENCE. See LETTEBS. 
 
 :OVENANT, Abrahamic, 256, 320, 321; 
 of the Baptist Church at Warren, 69. 
 OVEY, Mr., 267. 
 
 COWPER S Poems, stanza cited, 458. 
 RAM, Dea. W., and wife, baptized, 
 122. 
 
 CRANBERRY, visited with a revival, 336. 
 
 CROCKER, Rev. Dr., fifty-five years a 
 Fellow, portrait in Rhode Island Hall, 
 396. 
 
 URTIS, Mr., son-in-law to Robert Rob 
 inson, 444. 
 
 HUSHING, Thomas, delegate to Con 
 gress from Massachusetts, 237. 
 
 CUSTOMS of the College of New Jer 
 sey in 1758, 28. 
 
 UTTING, Rev. Dr., article on Brown 
 University, cited, 46. 
 
 DANBURY, ruins of, 283. 
 
 DARK DAY of 1780, 260. 
 
 DARTMOUTH COLLEGE, 184, 255, 319, 
 406. 
 
 DAUGHTERS OF LIBERTY, 64. 
 
 DA VIES, Rev. Dr., President of the Col 
 lege of New Jersey, 27; Oliver Hart 
 on death of, 32 ; referred to by Man 
 ning, 386. 
 
 DA VIES, Benj , of Wales, 218. 
 
 DAVIS, John, educated at the Hopewell 
 Academy, 42; present at early meet 
 ings of Corporation, 67; chairman of 
 committee on grievances, 80; honor 
 ary degree conferred on, 89; agent 
 for the Baptist churches, 131. 
 
 DAVIS, Samuel, 274, 278. 
 
 DAWSON, a Sabbatarian Baptist, 249. 
 
 DAY, Robert, of England, worthy of 
 College honors, 190. 
 
 DAYTON, Dr., executor of Richard 
 Stites, 292. 
 
 DEARTH of material for Manning s life, 
 7. 
 
 DEED of College lot, 115, 116. 
 
 DEERFIELD, Baptist church constitu 
 ted in, 122, 123. 
 
 DEMOSTHENES, 27. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 495 
 
 DENNIS, John, graduate in class of 1770, 
 
 128. 
 
 DENNIS, Capt., of Brunswick, 272. 
 DEXTER, Gregory, minister of Baptist 
 
 church in Providence, 146, 148. 
 DEXTER, John, 154. 
 DEXTER, Jeremiah, French troops en 
 camped on lands of, 292. 
 DIARRIKEA, Manning grievously afflict 
 ed with, 231. . 
 
 DIARY or Journal, Manning s, on jour 
 ney to Philadelphia, 266. 
 DILIGENCE, Manning feels his obliga 
 tions to, in his holy calling, 366. 
 DIPLOMAS, form of revised and en 
 graved, 220. 
 
 DISCIPLINE of the College under Man 
 ning, 128. 307. 
 
 DISCIPLINE OF THE ROD, 219. 
 DISSENTERS, in England, not allowed 
 bells or steeples, 230 ; objections to the 
 order of bishops, 361. 
 DISTRESS upon the Baptists, 330, 331. 
 
 Sec BAPTISTS. 
 
 DISNEY S Memoirs of Hollis, cited, 122. 
 DITTON S FLUXIONS, 217. 
 DIVISION in Baptist church, Provi 
 dence, 154. 
 DOBSON, publisher, of Philadelphia, 427, 
 
 430. 
 DODDRIDGE S LECTURES, text-book in 
 
 College, 305. 
 
 DOGGETT, Simeon, " Commencemenl 
 oration on death of President Man 
 ning," 455, 457. 
 
 DORRANCE, John, graduate in class o: 
 1774; member of school committee 
 419. 
 DRAKE S HISTORY AND ANTIQUITIES 
 
 OF BOSTON, cited, 134. 
 DROWNE, Solomon, graduate in class 
 of 1773, appointed on committee t< 
 make out catalogue of books, 298 
 presents to Corporation device for : 
 seal, 300; on committee to draft lette 
 to Benjamin Franklin , 301 ; goes ou 
 to Europe with letters of introduction 
 from Manning, 343, 346, 359; referen 
 ces to, 365, 382, 335. 408, 431, 441; brie 
 biographical sketch, 346, 347; portrai 
 in Rhode Island Hall, 396. 
 
 DROWNE, Thomas S., acknowledgment 
 
 in Preface, 9. 
 
 ^UDDINGSTON, Lieut., 171. 
 DUDLEY, Deputy Governor, 144. 
 )UNHAM, Col., of Morristown, 281. 
 DUNN, Benj.. actor in affair of the Gas- 
 pee, 172. 
 DRUMMER. Nathaniel, probable heir to 
 
 an estate in England, 382. 
 DUNLAP S HISTORY OF THE ARTS OF 
 
 DESIGN, cited, 459. 
 DUNSCOMUE, Rev. Mr., of England, 217, 
 
 380. 
 
 DURHAM, Connecticut, 285. 
 DURPHEE, Capt., 111. 
 DUTCHESS COUNTY, N. Y., land and 
 
 crops, 268. 
 DWIGHT, Widow, daughter of David 
 
 Howell, 401. 
 DWIGHT, Capt. G. L., acknowledgment 
 
 in Preface, 9. 
 
 EAST GREENWICH, subscription in, for 
 the College, 108. 
 
 EAST INDIES and China, John Brown 
 first merchant in Rhode Island to car 
 ry trade to, 166. 
 
 EASTON, Nicholas, present at first meet 
 ing of Corporation, 64. 
 
 EASTON, Jonathan, physician, present 
 at early meetings of Corporation, 67. 
 
 EATON, Joseph, of Montgomery, 25. 
 
 EATON, Isaac, founder of the Hopewell 
 Academy, 25, 41, 62 ; gives charge at 
 Manning s ordination, 35; executor 
 of Mrs. Hubs s will, 56 ; name omitted 
 in first draft of charter, 51 ; sermon 
 at ordination of Dr. Rogers, 92; hon 
 orary degree conferred on, 128; brief 
 biographical sketch, 25, 26. 
 
 EATON, Joseph, member of first gradu 
 ating class, 88. 
 
 ECCLESIASTICAL OPPRESSIONS, passed 
 away, 192. 
 
 EDDY, Samuel, graduate in class of 
 1787, Fellow and Secretary of Corpo 
 ration, 401; sketch of, 400. 
 
 EDDY, Zechariah, testimony in favor of 
 Backus, 131. 
 
 EDGAR, Major, 272. 
 
 EDICT OF NANTES, 34. 
 
496 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 EDMONDS, Mr., calls on Manning, 281. 
 
 EDUCATION, Manning s efforts to aid 
 pious students in securing, 315 ; his 
 efforts in behalf of popular, 417-419; 
 of youth necessary for preservation 
 of freedom, 434; address of the War 
 ren Association concerning, 320. 
 
 EDUCATION SOCIETY of Bristol, Eng 
 land. See BRISTOL. 
 
 EDWARDS, Morgan," principal mover " 
 in founding and endowing Rhode 
 Island College. 43, 44; name omitted 
 by Dr. Stiles in his first draft of the 
 Charter, 51; present at the early 
 meetings of the Corporation, 67; se 
 cures funds for the College in Eng 
 land and Ireland, 88, 90, 195; original 
 subscription book in the Library, 90, 
 461; honorary degree conferred on, 
 89; messenger to Warren Association 
 from Philadelphia, 77, 80; writes to 
 Manning in regard to his leaving 
 Warren, 118; preaches first "Com 
 mencement sermon," 89; appointed 
 by Philadelphia Association to re 
 ceive funds for the College in Penn 
 sylvania, 57; writes to Manning on 
 the opposition of the Presbyterians or 
 Congrcgationalists, 190; books sent 
 to, from Ryland, 202; respectful no 
 tice taken of by the Philadelphia As 
 sociation, 206; present at conference 
 of Baptists with delegates to Congress, 
 237; visits with Manning at Philadel 
 phia and Pennepek, 279, 280; llippon 
 inquires of Manning concerning, 824 ; 
 inclined to vindicate Winchester, 327 ; 
 " Materials towards a History of the 
 Baptists," cited, 42, 46, 52, 107, 108, 
 117, 144,155; death and funeral ser 
 mon, 44, 95; life and character, 43- 
 45. See LETTERS. 
 
 EDAVAIIDS, " Billy," son of Morgan, 128. 
 EDWARDS, Joshua, son of Morgan, 90. 
 EDWARDS, James, receives honorary 
 
 degree at first Commencement, 89. 
 EDWARDS, Jonathan, President of 
 
 Union College, 402. 
 ELECT LADY, 312, 344. 
 ELECTRICITY, Joseph Brown s profi 
 ciency in, 162. 
 
 ELEMENTS of learning, Manning well 
 instructed in, 25. 
 
 ELLERY, William, of Newport, 47, 54, 
 275, 276. * 
 
 ELLIOT, of Fail-field, 284. 
 
 ELiZABETii SOWN, N. J., place of Man 
 ning s birth, 24, 25, 271; damaged by 
 the British, 271. 
 
 ELOQUENCE of Manning, 405, 457, 459; 
 of Maxcy, 401. 
 
 ELTON, Romeo, Literary Remains of 
 Maxcy, cited, 7, 403. 
 
 EMBLEN, John, pastor of First Baptist 
 Church, Boston, 135. 
 
 EMERSON S FLUXIONS, 217. 
 
 EMIGRATION to Kentucky, 411. 
 
 EMPLOYMENT, man made for, 426. 
 
 ENCYCLOPAEDIA BRITANNICA, work 
 of the greatest utility, 356. 
 
 ENDOWMENTS for the College, efforts 
 to secure, 309. 
 
 ENGLAND, resistance to unjust claims 
 of, 233 ; appoints to office members 
 of the Episcopal Church, 39. 
 
 ENMITY to the College, 199, 215, 399_ 
 See COLLEGE. 
 
 EPISCOPALIANS and Episcopal Church, 
 38, 39, 64, S3, 245, 249, 255, 361. 
 
 EPITAPH on Chad Brown, 144; Nicho 
 las Brown, 161; Joseph Brown, 163; 
 John Brown, 168. 
 
 EUTAW, S. C., Pelot settled at, 44. 
 
 EVANS, Abel, honorary degree con 
 ferred on. 128. 
 
 EVANS, Benjamin, popular minister in 
 Cardiganshire, 443. 
 
 EVANS, Caleb, President of Bristol 
 Academy, England, 337; honorary 
 degree conferred on, 89, 429; efforts 
 to procure books for the College from 
 Bristol Academy, 341; preaches in 
 opposition to Dr. Priestley, 415; brief 
 sketch of, 337. Sec LETTERS. 
 
 EVANS, Hugh, honorary degree con 
 ferred on, 128; tutor of Dr. Rippon, 
 325; bcoks and apparatus solicited 
 for the College, 338. 
 
 EVANS, Life and Writings of William 
 Richards, cited, 93, 310, 445. 
 
 EWING, Dr., 351. 
 
 EYRES, Elder Nicholas, 50. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 497 
 
 EYRES, Thomas, graduate of Yale. 50; 
 connection with the College Charter, 
 50, 55; first Secretary of the Corpora 
 tion, 64, 66; present at meeting to de 
 termine location of the College, 110; 
 at meeting of Corporation in 1780,288. 
 
 FAIRFIELD, Ct., burnt by the British, 
 
 277 ; ruins of, 284. 
 
 FASTING AND PRAYER, Baptist church 
 es appoint day of in consequence of 
 oppressions of Standing Order, 186. 
 FARMINGTON, Ct., 267. 
 FARMS, CONNECTICUT, home of Man 
 ning s father-in-law, 34, 272, 280. 
 FALKNER,Capt., Manning and Edwards 
 
 visit, 279. 
 
 FAME, influence of on human mind,819. 
 FATHERS OF THE CHURCH bequeathed 
 
 to the College by Dr. Gill, 370. 
 FEATHERS, ACADEMICAL, 188, 214, 217. 
 FEDERAL ADELPHI, 305. 
 FEDERAL CONSTITUTION, Mass. Con 
 vention upon, 403; adopted in Rhode 
 Island by two votes, 433 ; John Brown 
 champion of, 167. 
 FEDERAL GOVERNMENT, impending 
 
 dissolution of, 390, 392. 
 FEDERALISTS, 403. 
 FENNER, Edward, 154. 
 FENNER, James, valedictorian of class 
 
 of 1789, 425. 
 FENNER, Samuel, College lot purchased 
 
 of, 115. 
 FENNING S ARITHMETIC, text-book in 
 
 College, 305. 
 FERGUSON, James, Ryland s intimate 
 friend., 217 ; Easy Introduction to Sir 
 Isaac Newton s Philosophy, 203; As 
 tronomy, text-book in College, 305. 
 FINANCIAL embarrassments of the 
 
 country in 1779, 275. 
 FINLEY, Samuel, President of the CoL 
 lege of New Jersey, 27; reference to 
 275. 
 
 FISH, Samuel and Daniel, 154. 
 FISHKILL, N. Y., land good and roads 
 
 fine, 269. 
 
 FIVE-PRINCIPLE BAPTISTS, 149. 
 FLATTERY, " drivelling flattery anc 
 nauseous palaver," 201. 
 
 42* 
 
 FLINT, Abel, tutor in College, 397, 428, 
 
 432, 437; ordination of, 438. 
 FOBES, Perez, Vice President of the 
 College, 379; Professor and Fellow, 
 380; sermon on death of Manning, 452. 
 FOLSOM, Nancy, baptized, 123. 
 "OUGHT, Mr., 281. 
 TOUR BROTHERS, biographical sketches, 
 
 153-176. 
 FOURTH OF JULY in Philadelphia, 1779, 
 
 276. 
 
 FORSYTE S Memoir of Dr. Proudfit, ci 
 ted, 402. 
 FORTS, Arnold, Putnam, and Pitt, 
 
 282, 367. 
 
 FOSKETT, Rev. Dr., instructor of Mor 
 gan Edwards, 43. 
 
 FOSTER, Benj., appointed chairman of 
 committee to prepare Baptist cate 
 chism and spelling-book, 291 ; appoint 
 ed to solicit benefactions for the Col 
 lege in New England, 299. 
 FOSTER, Dwight, graduate in class of 
 
 1774, 234. 
 FOSTER, Henry, of England, worthy of 
 
 College honors, 189. 
 FOSTER, John, taught private school in 
 
 Providence. 417. 
 
 FOSTER, Theodore, graduate in class of 
 1770, 127 ; member of school commit 
 tee; 419; on town committee to draft 
 petition to Congress, 425. 
 FOSTER, Rev. Mr., 412, 448. 
 FOSTER, Mr., steward of College, 292. 
 FOTHERGILL, Dr , of London, Water- 
 house a pupil of, 299. 
 FOUNDER OF BROWN UNIVERSITY, 
 
 neglect to record his honors, 5. 
 Fox, Joseph, Quaker, of Philadelphia, 
 
 237. 
 Fox s NEW ENGLAND FIRE BRAND 
 
 QUENCHED, cited, 147. 
 FRANCE, a monarchial despotism, 359. 
 FRANCIS, Mr., expression in prayer, 
 
 111. 
 
 FRANCIS, John, married Abby, daugh 
 ter of John Brown, 170. 
 FRANCIS, John Brown, son of John, 
 
 170, 172. 
 
 FRANK-PLEDGE, the policy of Israel 
 under the theocracy, 360. 
 
498 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 FRANKLIN, Benjamin, subscriber to the 
 early funds of the College, 91 ; com 
 mittee appointed to draft letter to,301. 
 
 FREEDOM OF CONSCIENCE, motto on 
 bell of First Baptist Church, 230. 
 
 FREEHOLDERS, mediocrity of landed 
 possessions in the hands of beneficial 
 to a community ,359 ; the real strength 
 of a nation, 362. 
 
 FREEMASON. See MASONIC FRATER 
 NITY. 
 
 FREE PUBLIC SCHOOLS, Manning 
 draws up report in favor of, 418 ; es 
 tablished in Providence in 1800, 419. 
 
 FRENCH Ambassador at West Point,282. 
 
 FRENCH LANGUAGE AND HISTORY, 
 Professorship of desired by the Cor 
 poration, 302. 
 
 FRENCH ORATION at Commencement, 
 1788, 412. 
 
 FRENCH REVOLUTION, 429. 
 
 FRESHMAN CLASS, first, consisted of 
 but three students, 86. 
 
 FREEMAN, Philip, of Boston, 80, 210; 
 represents Sec. Baptist Church at first 
 meeting of Warren Association, 75. 
 
 FRIENDS, Moses Brown a prominent 
 member of, 173; Gov. Hopkins, pre 
 ferred principles of, 869; discipline 
 of inconsistent with Masonry, 175. 
 
 FRIENDS BOARDING SCHOOL, 174. 
 
 FRIENDSHIP, blunt, better than " driv 
 elling flattery," 201. 
 
 FRINK, Esquire, 266. 
 
 FULTON, Benj., of England, worthy of 
 College honors, 190. 
 
 FULTON, James, graduate in class of 
 1775, 240. 
 
 FUNDS of the College, preserved amidst 
 the wreck of public credit, 316; pro 
 duce an income of 60 sterling, 339 ; 
 for education of pious Baptist youth, 
 381; smallness of, 444. 
 
 FUNERAL of Manning, 451, 454; order 
 of procession, 452. 
 
 FURMAN, Rev. Dr., on John Gano, 35. 
 
 GALLOWAY, Joseph, delegate to Con 
 gress, 237. 
 
 GAMMELL. Rev. William, pupil of Wil 
 liam Williams, 106. 
 
 ] GAMMELL,Prof. William, Life of Roger 
 Williams, cited, 147; Life of Gov. 
 Ward, cited, 66, 237; Life and Educa 
 tional Labors of Nicholas Brown, ci 
 ted, 144, 395. 
 
 GANO, John, brother-in-law of Man 
 ning, 34; preaches Manning s ordina 
 tion sermon, 34; present at the early 
 meetings of the Corporation, 67; 
 name omitted by Dr. Stiles in first 
 draft of the Charter, 51; preaches the 
 sermon at the organization of the 
 Baptist church in Warren, 70; first 
 Moderator of the Warren Association, 
 75; Moderator in 1774, 236; baptizes 
 Hezekiah Smith, 135; appointed by 
 Philadelphia Association to receive 
 donations for the College, and to ad 
 dress kindred associations on the sub 
 ject, 57, 58; travels in Virginia and 
 North Carolina, 182; present at the 
 conference of Baptist with delegates 
 to Congress, 237 ; sufierer by the war, 
 244; family at Warwick during M:e 
 war, 269, 270, 280, 281 ; referred to by 
 Rippon, 323; blessed with a revival 
 at New York, 328, 355, 364; leaves 
 New York for Kentucky, 406; house 
 caught on fire, 448; biographical 
 sketch, 34-36. 
 
 GANO, Sarah, wife of John, 35, 364, 
 365. 
 
 GANO, Daniel, eldest son of John, grad 
 ate in class of 1776, 242. 
 
 GANO, Stephen, third son of John, pas 
 tor of the First Baptist Church, Provi- 
 deuce,35,364; married to Mary Brown, 
 164; referred to by Manning, 432; an 
 honored and useful member of the 
 Masonic fraternity, 366; administra 
 tor of Mrs. Manning s estate, 7; bio 
 graphical sketch, 334-366. 
 
 GARDNER, Col., of Newport, 46. 
 
 GARDNER, William, of Philadelphia, 94. 
 
 GARTH, Brigadier-General, 277. 
 
 GARRETS and storehouses, no places 
 for valuable papers, 8. 
 
 GASPARS, an artist contemporary with 
 Charles II. ,396. 
 
 GASPEE, British schooner, account of 
 destruction of, 170. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 499 
 
 GASPEE POINT, 171. 
 
 GATES, Gen., a good commander, 141. 
 
 GERMANY, a monarchial despotism, 
 359. 
 
 GERNEAUX, Francis, ancestor of John 
 Gano, 34. 
 
 GEORGE III., intimate with Dr. Sten- 
 nett, 120. 
 
 GEORGIA, subscriptions for the College 
 in, 121, 126. 
 
 GERVINUS S Introduction to History 
 of Nineteenth Century, cited, 147. 
 
 GIBBON S, Dr., eulogy on Dr. Llewelyn, 
 194; an intimate acquaintance of Pres 
 ident Davics, 386. 
 
 GIBBS S, Designs of Buildings and Or 
 naments, cited, 229. 
 
 GIFFORD, Andrew, sub-librarian of the 
 British Museum, 370; subscriber to 
 early funds of the College, 91 ; death 
 referred to, 362. 
 
 GILBERT, Capt., 181. 
 
 GILL, Dr. John, pastor of Baptist 
 church in London fifty-one years, 
 372; list of his published writings, 
 372; recommends Morgan Edwards 
 to this country, 43; subscriber to the 
 early funds of the College, 91; re 
 ferred to in correspondence, 202, 203, 
 211, 231 ; bequeaths his works and fif 
 ty-two volumes of the Fathers to 
 College Library, 199, 200; works re 
 ferred to, 364, 374, 416. 
 
 GILL, John, son of Dr., and executor 
 of estate, 200; correspondence with 
 Manning, relative to publications of 
 his father, 371-376. 
 
 GODDARD, William Giles, Memoir of 
 Manning, with sketches of his pupils, 
 cited, 6, 86, 113, 117, 118, 119, 242, 300, 
 329, 342, 401, 410, 413, 451, 463. 
 
 GOFOKTH, Major, 2.74, 278, 279. 
 
 GOOD CHARACTER, importance of, 426. 
 
 GOODRICH Kev. Dr., of Durham, 438. 
 
 GORDON, William, author of History of 
 the American War, 387; introduced 
 to Manning by Dr. Stennett, 123, 
 181; busy upon his History, 393; 
 abused in Boston newspapers, 388; 
 prays daily that people of United 
 States may be holy, free, and happy, 
 
 423 ; presents Caryl s Exposition upon 
 Job, and set of his History to College 
 Library, 387, 424; brief sketch of, 387. 
 See LETTERS. 
 
 GORTON S Simplicity s Defence, cited, 
 146. 
 
 GOSPEL, an estimable jewel, 409. 
 
 GOULD, Thomas, pastor of First Bap 
 tist Church, Boston, 135. 
 
 GOULD AND LINCOLN, acknowledg 
 ment to, 9. 
 
 GOVERNMENT, great desideratum of, 
 362. 
 
 GRAFTON, Joseph, ordained and set 
 tled at Newtown, 409; Trustee of 
 Baptist Education Fund, 316. 
 
 GRAMMAR, Warren Association ap 
 point committee to prepare an Eng 
 lish, 291. 
 
 GRAMMAR SCHOOL. See LATIN SCHOOL. 
 
 GRASSHOPPERS, 2G8, 270. 
 
 GRAVES, John, Rector of St. John s 
 Church, Providence, disloyal, 255. 
 
 GREAT MEADOWS, Ct., 285. 
 
 GREAT BRITAIN, conduct to East In 
 dians, Africans, and Americans re 
 ferred to, 424. 
 
 GREGSON, Moses, of England, worthy 
 of College honors, 190. 
 
 GREEK oration at Commencement in 
 1788, 412. 
 
 GREEN, John Morley, admitted to de 
 gree of A. B., in 1782, 289. 
 
 GREEN, Nathaniel, of Charlton, death 
 of, 458. 
 
 GREEN, Thomas, of Cambridge, people 
 imprisoned for minister s rates, 349; 
 Trustee of Baptist Education Fund, 
 316. 
 
 GREENE, Elisha, 154. 
 
 GREENE, Caleb, subscriber for set of 
 Gordon s History, 424. 
 
 GREENE, Col. Christopher, 97; portrait 
 in Rhode Island Hall, 397. 
 
 GREENE, Gen. Nathaniel, second only 
 to Washington, 97; dinner in honor 
 of at John Brown s, 169; Manning 
 dines with at West Point, 282. 
 
 GREENE, Thomas, present at meeting 
 of Corporation to determine location 
 of College, 110. 
 
500 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 GREENFIELD, Ct., husbandry good, 281. 
 
 GRIEVANCES, plan to collect, 80; appli 
 cation to England for redress from, 
 184. 
 
 GRIFFITH, Abe], represents Philadel 
 phia Baptist Association, at Warren, 
 in 1767, 75. 
 
 GRISWOLD, Bishop, takes the Knight 
 Templar s degree in Providence En 
 campment, 366. 
 
 GROSVENOR, Cyrus P., pastor of First 
 Baptist Church, Boston, 135. 
 
 GUERNSEY, Island of, 34. 
 
 GUILD, .Joseph, represents Attleboro 
 Church at first meeting of Warren 
 Association, 75. 
 
 GUILD and the Manning papers, 7. 
 
 GUTHRIE, Mr., 390. 
 
 GUTHRIE S GEOGRAPHY, text-book in 
 College, 305. 
 
 HAGUE, William, pastor of the First 
 Baptist Church, Boston, 135; Histori 
 cal Discourse, cited, 144, 180. 
 
 HAILE, Amos, of Warren, 70. 
 
 HALL, Rev. Robert, of Amsby, Leisces- 
 tershire, death referred to, 439. 
 
 HALL, Rev. Dr. Robert, on death of 
 Ryland, 23; on death of Reynolds, 
 450. 
 
 HALL, Silas, acknowledgment in Pref 
 ace, 9 ; copies minutes of Warren As 
 sociation from Backus papers, 82. 
 
 HALSEY, J., tutor in College of New 
 Jersey, 27. 
 
 HALSEY, Thos. Loyd, on committee of 
 Corporation to erect brick house for 
 Grammar School, 67. 
 
 HAMMOND, Jona., on committee to visit 
 Boston, and procure plans for meet 
 ing-house, 227. 
 
 HAMMOND, Noah, delegate from Phila 
 delphia Association, at first meeting 
 of Warren, 75. 
 
 HAMMOND S ALGEBRA, text-book in 
 College, 305. 
 
 HANCOCK, Governor, member of Dr. 
 Stillman s congregation, 134; invites 
 Manning to close the Massachusetts 
 Convention with prayer, 404. 
 
 HANCOCK, Mrs. Dolly, 106. 
 
 HANSBROOK, Col., 269. 
 
 HARDING, celebrated American artist, 
 395. 
 
 HARRIS, Andrew, father-in-law of El 
 der James Brown, 152. 
 
 HARRIS, Mary, daughter of Andrew, 
 and wife of Elder James Brown, 152. 
 
 HARRIS, Thos. Jr., 152. 
 
 HARRIS, William, one of the five who 
 came to Providence with Roger Wil 
 liams, 146, 152. 
 
 HARRIS, W. J., portrait of Moses 
 Brown, 175. 
 
 HART, Oliver, pastor of the Baptist 
 church, Charleston, main founder of 
 Charleston Baptist Association, 31; 
 writes to Manning on death of Pres 
 ident Davies 32; invites Manning to 
 become his assistant, 37; baptizes 
 Stillman, 133; appointed to address 
 Baptist associations throughout 
 America, in behalf of Rhode Island 
 College, 58; references to, 45, 89, 126, 
 333, 336. See LETTERS. 
 
 HART, John, sou of Oliver, Manning 
 disciplines with the rod, 219. 
 
 HART, John, Esq., executor of Mrs. 
 Hubs s will, 56 ; Manning visits, 272, 
 273 ; 278. 
 
 HART, Joseph, of the Executive Coun 
 cil, 275. 
 
 HARTFORD and vicinity, roads and 
 crops, 267. 
 
 HARVARD COLLEGE, founded in 1638, 
 38; Hollis donations to, 40, 319; funds 
 increased by lotteries, 196; references 
 to, 62, 232, 299. 
 
 HATHHORN, Col., 281. 
 
 HAVERHILL, Mass., place of Hezekiah 
 Smith s settlement and labors, 136, 
 133. 
 
 HAZARD, Ebenezer, classmate of Man 
 ning, 33. 
 
 HAZARD, Geo., of Newport, present at 
 early meetings of Corporation, 67, 110. 
 
 HAZARD, Joseph, associate justice, 99. 
 
 HEADACHE, Woodman suffers from, 
 206; Manning, 207. 
 
 HEADE S portrait of Moses Brown, 175. 
 
 HEARSE, used for first time in Provi 
 dence at Manning s funeral, 451. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 501 
 
 HEBREW oration at Commencement in 
 1788, 412. 
 
 HEBREWS, in College, 60. 
 
 HELME, James, present at final meeting 
 to determine location of the College, 
 110. 
 
 HENRY, Patrick, eloquence moulded 
 by sermons of Samuel Davies, 27. 
 
 HERENDEN, married to Daniel Brown, 
 150. 
 
 HERRESHOFF, Charles F., son-in-law of 
 John Brown, 170. 
 
 HESSIANS in Rhode Island, 98. 
 
 HEXTALL, William, worthy of College 
 honors, 190. 
 
 HILDRETH S United States, cited, 271, 
 275. 
 
 HISTORY, Dr. Priestley s lectures on, 
 414. 
 
 HISTORY of the College. See COL 
 LEGE. 
 
 HINDS, Ebenezer, assists in the organi 
 zation of the Baptist church, at War 
 ren, 68; represents Second Middle- 
 borough Church at first meeting of 
 Warren Association, 75. 
 
 HITCHCOCK, Enos, preaches sermon at 
 ordination of Mr. Flint, 438; conducts 
 services at Manning s funeral, 451; 
 member of school committee, 419. 
 
 Hix, Samuel, of Warren, 70. 
 
 HOGARTH S Analysis of Beauty, cited, 
 460. 
 
 HOGLAND, Col., of Bordeutown, 277. 
 
 HOLIDAY, earliest State, in Rhode Isl 
 and, 87. 
 
 HOLLIMAN, Ezekiel, baptized by Roger 
 Williams, 147. 
 
 HOLLIS, Thomas, the distinguished ben 
 efactor of Harvard University, 40; 
 subscribes to the early funds of the 
 College, 91; corresponds with Eph- 
 raim Wheaton of Swanzey and the 
 Philadelphia Baptist Association with 
 reference to his scholarships at Har 
 vard, 41 ; account of the Hollis fam 
 ily,^!; continued their benefactions 
 to Harvard for a century, 121. 
 
 HOLLIS, Timothy, subscriber to the 
 early funds of the College, 91. 
 
 HOLMES, Widow Molly, 271, 272. 
 
 HOLMES, Obadiah, first martyr to Bap 
 tist principles in New England, 151; 
 daughter married to John Brown,151. 
 
 HOLMES S Life of President Stiles, ci 
 ted, 50, 260. 
 
 HOLROYD, William, appointed by Gen 
 eral Assembly manager of lottery for 
 church, 228. 
 
 HOLROYD, John, married daughter of 
 Stephen Gano, 368. 
 
 HONORS of the College and honorary 
 degrees, 198, 202, 209. See ACADEMI 
 CAL and FEATHERS. 
 
 HONEYMAN, James, present at first meet- 
 iug of Corporation, 64; public char 
 acter and social position, 65. 
 
 HOPE, ship belonging to Providence, 
 343, 361, 363. 
 
 HOPE COLLEGE, erected in 1822 at ex 
 pense of Nicholas Brown, 395; named 
 after his sister, Mrs. Hope Ives, 52, 
 157, 395. 
 
 HOPEWELL, N. J., birthplace of John 
 Gano, 35; revival of religion in, 245. 
 
 HOPEWELL ACADEMY, founded by 
 Isaac Eaton in 1756, 41 ; interest man 
 ifested in by Philadelphia and 
 Charleston Associations, 41; gradu 
 ates, 42. 
 
 HOPKINS, Esek, brother of Stephen, 
 appointed on Committee with Joseph 
 Brown, 163; nominates Manning as a 
 delegate to Congress, 378 ; first com 
 modore in the American navy,portrait 
 in Rhode Island Hall, 396; daughter 
 Susan married to President Maxcy. 
 
 HOPKINS, Gov. Stephen, first Chancel 
 lor of the College, 64; present at 
 meetings of the Corporation, 63, 110, 
 288, 298, 301; delegate to Congress, 
 237; degree of LL.D. conferred on by 
 the College, 332; Manning s particu 
 lar friend, and " one of the greatest 
 men our country has reared," 336; 
 character, habits, and personal influ 
 ence, 65, 338. 
 
 HOPKINS, John B., actor in affair of 
 the Gaspee, 172. 
 
 HOPKINS, Samuel, lottery in aid of his 
 church at Newport, 197; "penetrat 
 ing sagacity of," 402. 
 
502 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 HOVEY S Life and Times of Backus, ci 
 ted, 81, 130, 235, 238, 239. 
 
 HOWARD, John, the philanthropist, 
 member of Dr. Stennett s congrega 
 tion, 120. 
 
 HOWARD, Miss A., of Scarboro, Eng 
 land, Manning writes letter of sym 
 pathy to, 250. 
 
 HOWELL, David, educated at Hopewell 
 Academy, 42; graduate of the Col 
 lege of New Jersey, 84 ; first tutor in 
 the College 85; receives honorary de 
 gree, 89; associate justice of the Su 
 preme Court, 99; delegate to Con 
 gress, 329, 384; Secretary of the Cor 
 poration, 435; resigns his professor 
 ship in the College, 262; papers and 
 correspondence 8, 9; references to, 
 160, 227, 241, 288, 291, 298, 325, 370, 
 419, 453, 454, 459; sketch of his char 
 acter and life, 85, 86. See LETTERS. 
 
 HOWELL, Jeremiah Brown, son of Da 
 vid, graduate in class of 1789, 425; 
 references to, 298, 347. 
 
 HOWELL, Sarah, daughter of David, 
 married to Dwight and afterwards to 
 Eddy, 401. 
 
 HOWLAND, John, sketch of Manning s 
 character and life, 6; cited, 118, 119, 
 259,404; account of Baptist church, 
 226 ; letter to Prof. Knowles respect 
 ing Chad Brown, 150; draws up peti 
 tion to General Assembly for free 
 schools, 419. 
 
 HUBBEL, Lieut., 281, 282. 
 
 HUBBEL, Esquire, of Stratford, 284. 
 
 HUDER, Robert, 280. 
 
 HUDSON S Life and Character of Je 
 mima Wilkinson, cited, 312. 
 
 HUGUENOTS, ancestors of the Gano 
 family, 34. 
 
 HUNT, Asa, travels seven hundred 
 miles in Virginia, 405. 
 
 HUNTER, William, on character of 
 Manning, 24; Manning s corpulency, 
 460. 
 
 HUNTER, Mr., of London, 189. 
 
 HUNTING, Mr., 285. 
 
 HUTCHINSON, Aaron, prepares Dr.Eog- 
 ers for college, 92. 
 
 HUTCHINSON, Mrs., 144. 
 
 IIUTCIIINSON S MORAL PHILOSOPHY 
 text-book in College, 305. 
 
 ILLITERATE Baptist ministers in Ken 
 tucky, 367. 
 
 IMPOSITION OF HANDS after baptism, 
 70, 92, 153, 178. 
 
 IMPOVERISHED state of the country, 
 326. 
 
 INDEPENDENCE, American, 2G5, 324. 
 
 INDEPENDENTS and Welsh Baptists, 
 442. 
 
 INDIA POINT, Providence, 170. 
 
 INDIAN SLAVES, enlisted as soldiers, 
 264. 
 
 INDIANS, false reports in England con 
 cerning, 444. 
 
 INDUSTRY, importance of forming 
 habits of, 426. 
 
 INFANT-BAPTISM, 253, 428. See BAP 
 TISM. 
 
 INGALLS, Rev. Mr., of Grafton, 332. 
 
 INHERITANCES ol landed posessions 
 should be subject to limitations, 360. 
 
 INITIAL DEED of Roger Williams, 145. 
 
 INSTABILITY natural to young minds, 
 416. 
 
 INTOLERANCE AND PERSECUTioN,Prof. 
 Knowles on, 192. 
 
 INTOXICATING DRINKS, Morgan Ed 
 wards addicted to use of, 44. 
 
 ISRAEL, polity of commonwealth of, 
 360. 
 
 IVES, Thomas Poynton, brother-in-law 
 of Hon. Nicholas Brown, 157; on 
 committee of Corporation in 1810 to 
 erect brick building for accommo 
 dation of the Grammar School, 67; 
 portrait in Rhode Island Hall, 396. 
 
 IVES, Mrs. Hope, granddaughter of 
 Daniel Jenckes, and only surviving 
 sister of Hon. Nicholas Brown, Hope 
 College named in honor of, 52, 157, 
 395. 
 
 JACKSON, Henry, married daughter of 
 Stephen Gano, 366. 
 
 JAMES, Samuel, honorary degree con 
 ferred on, 128. 
 
 JEFFERSON, Thomas, letter to dele 
 gates of R. I. respecting petition from 
 
INDEX. 
 
 503 
 
 the Corporation of the College to 
 King of France, 303; visits Provi 
 dence with Washington, 433. 
 
 JENCKES, Ebenezer, pastor of the Bap 
 tist church, Providence, 153, 154. 
 
 JENCKES, Jonathan, 154. 
 
 JENCKES, Gov. Joseph, brother-in-law 
 of Elder James Brown, 152; letter on 
 "laying on of hands," cited, 153. 
 
 JENCKES, Daniel, opposes the granting 
 of the first Charter drafted by Dr. 
 Stiles, 48 ; history of the Charter, 52- 
 54; marries a descendant of Eichard 
 Scott, 147 ; present at first meeting of 
 the Corporation, 64; at meeting, 
 which determined the location of the 
 College, 110 ; moderator of the church 
 meeting at which Manning was called 
 to the pastorate at Providence, 179; 
 brief sketch of his character, 51, 52. 
 
 JENCKES, Rhoda, fifth daughter of 
 Daniel, married to Nicholas Brown, 
 62, 157. 
 
 JENCKES, Joseph, admitted to the de 
 gree of A. B. in 1782, 289. 
 
 JENCKES, John, chairman of advisory 
 committee of Baptist society, 227; 
 appointed by General Assembly one 
 of the managers of lottery to aid in 
 building a meeting-house, 228; pres 
 ent at meeting of Corporation in 
 1780, 288 ; married to Widow Bowers, 
 393; subscriber for set of Gordon s 
 History of the War, 424 ; sickness and 
 death, 437, 448. 
 
 JENNINGS, James, of England, worthy 
 of College honors, 190. 
 
 JENKINS, Mrs. Anna Almy, grand 
 daughter ofMos.es Brown, 175; burn 
 ing of her mansion, 176. 
 
 JENKINS, Moses Brown, 176. 
 
 JENKS, Rev. Dr., letter on Stillman, 
 cited, 134. 
 
 JEWS, children of, admitted into the 
 College, 61. 
 
 JONES, Samuel, educated at Hopewell 
 Academy, 42; appointed by Phila 
 delphia Association, with Morgan 
 Edwards, committee to establish Bap 
 tist college, 43; name omitted by 
 Dr. Stiles in first draft of Charter, 51 ; 
 
 on committee to remodel Stiles s 
 draft of Charter, 50, 54; writes letter 
 to Warren Association at its first meet 
 ing in 1767, 75; delegate to in 1769, 
 80; receives honorary degree from 
 College, 89; present at conference of 
 Baptists with delegates to Congress, 
 237; Manning visits at Penncpek, 274, 
 277, 278, 279, 280 ; references to, 23,431, 
 443; name suggested as Manning s 
 successor in the presidency, 453, 454 ; 
 biographical sketch, 274. See LET 
 TERS. 
 
 JONES, Robert Strettle, accompanies 
 Samuel Jones on his mission to New 
 port to remodel the Charter, 54; ref 
 erences to, 51, 89, 275. 
 
 JONES, David, educated at the Hope- 
 well Academy, 42; first Baptist mis 
 sionary to the Indians, 205; chap 
 lain in the army, 271, 272. 
 
 JONES, Alexander, admitted to the de 
 gree of A. B. in 1782, 289. 
 
 JONES, William, editor of Dr. Sten- 
 nett s works, 120. 
 
 JONES, John, 286. 
 
 JONES, Mr., of Killingly, 266. 
 
 JONES, Sammy, 336. 
 
 JONES, Horatio Gatez, acknowledg 
 ments to in Preface, 9. 
 
 JOHNSON, Dr., of Connecticut, associ 
 ate with Manning in Congress, 379. 
 
 JOHNSON, Dr. Samuel, 187, 201. 
 
 JOHNSON, J. B., objections to Maxcy 
 as candidate for presidency of Union 
 College, 402. 
 
 JOURNAL, Manning s, 266-286. 
 
 JUDSON, Dr., missionary to Burmah, 
 portrait in Rhode Island Hall, 396. 
 
 KAIMES S Elements of Crititism, text 
 book in College, 305. 
 
 KANE, Henry, Wallin s executor, 307, 
 373. 
 
 KEACH, on Singing in Public Worship, 
 179. 
 
 KEITH, George, son-in-law of Dr. Gill, 
 and his executor, 72, 200, 214, 371. 
 
 KEITH, Robert, educated at the Hope- 
 well Academy, 42. 
 
 KELLY, Rev. Mr., of Pomfret, 261. 
 
504 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 COUNTY, College to be located 
 in, 108, 110. 
 
 KENTISH GUARDS, nursery of distin 
 guished oflicersof the Revolution, 97. 
 
 KENNEDY S CHRONOLOGY, text-book 
 iu College, 305. 
 
 KENTUCKY, 35, 354, 356, 367, 411. 
 
 KER, Rev. J., tutor in College of New 
 Jersey, 27. 
 
 KILUNQLY to Chepachet, roads bad, 
 266. 
 
 KIMBALL, Hephzibah, of Boxford, 
 Mass., married toHezekiah Smith. 138. 
 
 KENZIE, James, delegate to Congress, 
 237. 
 
 KING, James, 154. 
 
 KING of France, address to from Cor 
 poration, 301. 
 
 KING PHILLIP S WAK, 144. 
 
 KINGSLEY S Life of Dr. Stiles, cited, 
 38, 47-49. 
 
 KIRB RIGHT, Mr., ruins of his buildings, 
 277. 
 
 KNIGHT S London Illustrated, cit.ed.229. 
 
 KNIGHT S History of Six-principle 
 Baptists, cited, 73. 
 
 KNOWLEDGE, useful, surest means of 
 securing rights, prosperity, and liber 
 ty, 418. 
 
 KKOWLES S Memoir of Roger Williams, 
 cited, 150, 192. 
 
 KNOX, General, an admirer of Dr. Still- 
 man, 133; Manning meets at West 
 Point, 282. 
 
 LAMB, Charles, playful remark on 
 Caryl s Job, 387. 
 
 LAMBERT, Nathaniel, graduate in class 
 of 1787, 400. 
 
 LAND, settlements on uncultivated, 
 359; large tracts of, engrossed in few 
 hands, cause of weakness, 359. 
 
 LANDED POSSESSIONS in hands of free 
 holders, 359; the real strength of a 
 nation, 382. 
 
 LATIN SCHOOL, begun by Manning, in 
 1764, at Warren, 72; removed to 
 Providence in 1770, 67, 128 ; removed 
 to the College building in 1772, 198 ; 
 references to by Manning in his cor 
 respondence, 216, 317, 338, 339; in 
 
 charge of William Wilkinson, 336; 
 removed from the College building 
 to the brick schoolhouse in 1786, 
 336; vote of the Corporation con 
 cerning, in 1794, 337; brick building 
 erected for by the Corporation, in 
 1810, 198, 337; now called the Uni 
 versity Grammar School, 67, 337. 
 
 LATIN SCHOOL established at Provi 
 dence in 1766, by Benjamin Stelle, 36. 
 
 LATIN SCHOOLS, Manning urges Baptist 
 ministers to open as nurseries of the 
 College, 261. 
 
 LATTING, Mrs. Joanna, of Ilillsdale, N. 
 Y., fourth wife of Stephen Gano,366. 
 
 LAW, Andrew, graduate in class of 
 1775, 240, 242. 
 
 LAW BOOKS purchased for Library at 
 expense of Nicholas Brown, 394. 
 
 LAWS AND CUSTOMS of College of New 
 Jersey in 1758, 28; of Rhode Island 
 College in 1783, 304. 
 
 LAWRENCE, Deacon, 281. 
 
 LAWRENS, Prof., Manning dines with, 
 277. 
 
 LAYING ON OP HANDS, controversy con 
 cerning, 149. See IMPOSITION OF 
 
 HANDS. 
 
 LEARNED, Asa, associated with Wm. 
 Wilkinson, 336. 
 
 LEDOYT, Elder, of Woodstock, 286. 
 
 LEE S family at Woodstock, 266. 
 
 LEGISLATURE of Rhode Island. See 
 RHODE ISLAND. 
 
 LELAND, Thomas, tutor to Augustus M. 
 Toplady, 203. 
 
 LEMON, Richard, 279. 
 
 LEONID AS, signature to an article in 
 Philadelphia paper, 275. 
 
 LETTERS FROM JAMES MANNING to 
 John Berridge, 253; Abraham Booth, 
 223, 343, 385, 427 ; committee of Se 
 nior Class, 240; Corporation of the 
 College, 296; Editors of Massachu 
 setts Magazine, 100; Caleb Evans, 
 338, 355, 383; William Gordon, 387; 
 John Gill, 373, 375; Miss A. Howard, 
 251 ; David Howell, 84, 291, 298, 347, 
 351, 370; Henry Kane, 307; Thomas 
 Lapham, Jr., 128; Thomas Llewelyn, 
 194, 318; Thomas Mackaness, 352 ; Na- 
 
INDEX. 
 
 505 
 
 than Miller, 291, 292; John Rippon, 
 326,346,364, 380; John Ryland, 187, 
 196, 199, 213, 220, 232, 243, 308, 345; 
 Granvillc Sharp, 361; Samuel Sten- 
 nett, 121, 181, 204, 311; Hezekiah 
 Smith, 111, 186, 209, 335, 389, 398, 406, 
 409, 416, 432, 436, 448; Thomas Ustick, 
 234, 261, 331, 349, 408; Benjamin Wal- 
 lin, 210, 221, 231, 245, 293 ; Isaac Wood 
 man, 207 ; letter concerning Dr. Stiles, 
 239. 
 
 LETTERS TO JAMES MANNING from 
 Abraham Booth, 343, 430, 438; com 
 mittee of Senior Class, 240 ; Mor 
 gan Edwards, 118, 191, 413 ; Caleb 
 Evans, 340, 396, 414, 429; John Gill, 
 372, 374, 376; William Gordon, 392, 
 421; Oliver Hart, 32, 37, 126, 219; Wil 
 liam Richards, 441 ; John Rippon, 323, 
 407,440; John Ryland, 188, 201, 208, 
 216; Granville Sharp, 359; Samuel 
 Stennett, 123, 310; Benjamin Wallin, 
 211, 247; Isaac Woodman, 205. 
 LETTERS, MISCELLANEOUS, Isaac Back 
 us to John Gill, 71; Isaac Backus to 
 John Rippon, 455; Nicholas Brown 
 to Hezekiah Smith, 159, 383, 397; 
 Hon. Nicholas Brown to Corporation, 
 394; English gentlemen on Washing 
 ton and Rogers, 94; Oliver Hart to 
 Hezekiah Smith, 44; David Howell 
 to Chancellor Hopkins, 261; David 
 Howell to Samuel Jones, 454; John 
 Howlaud to Prof. Knowles, 150; 
 Thomas Jefferson to Rhode Island 
 delegates, 303; Asa Messer to William 
 Richards, 446; E. A. Park to William 
 B. Sprague, 410; Francis Pelot to 
 Hezekiah Smith, 44; Alexander 
 Proudfit to J. B. Johnson, 402; Phil 
 adelphia to Warren Association, 76; 
 Asher Robbins to W. G. Goddard, 
 301, 378; Wm. Rogers to Wm. Button, 
 Wm. Rogers to Hezekiah Smith, 95; 
 Ezra Stiles to Chancellor Hopkins, 
 49; Hezekiah Smith to his wile, 139- 
 142; Samuel Stillman to Hezekiah 
 Smith, 453; Samuel Thurber to W. 
 R. Staples, 417; James M. Varnum to 
 his wife, 100 ; Warren Association 
 letters, 83, 185, 236, 320. 
 
 43 
 
 LEUTZE, E., artist, 397. 
 
 LEWIS the Little and Washington the 
 Great, 436. 
 
 LEXINGTON, battle of, 173, 242, 247, 
 386. 
 
 LIBERTY, College on the side of civil, 
 240. 
 
 LIBERTIES of a country perpetuated by 
 diffusion of knowledge, 418. 
 
 LIBRARY, condition of, in 1772, 194; im 
 portance of with reference to the Col 
 lege, 194, 319; receives bequest from 
 Dr. Gill, 199, 200, 205, 210; receives 
 donation from Wallin of Bunyan s, 
 Booth s, and Wilson s Works, 221; 
 Corporation subscribe 700 lawful 
 money for, 308; fourteen hundred vol 
 umes ordered, the gift of John Brown, 
 338; Saurin s Works presented by 
 Thomas Muliett, 311; Works of John 
 and Granvillc Sharp presented, 358; 
 consists of two thousand volumes in 
 1785,363; receives valuable donation 
 from Bristol Education Society, 369, 
 370; William Richards, of Lynn, Eng 
 land, bequeaths to it his private libra 
 ry of thirteen hundred volumes, 447; 
 receives donation of law books from 
 Hon. Nicholas Brown, 394; consisted 
 in 1783 of five hundred volumes, "very 
 ancient and very useless, very ragged 
 and unsightly": in 1861 consists of 
 thirty-five thousand volumes of stand 
 ard works in substantial and costly 
 bindings, 314. 
 LIGHTHOUSE, Boston, skirmish at, 139. 
 
 LlLLIBRIDGE, Mr., 68. 
 
 LINCOLN, General, attacks the British 
 before Charleston, 273. 
 
 LINCOLN. See GOULD AND LINCOLN. 
 
 LINDSEY, Captain of the packet Han 
 nah, 171. 
 
 LINDSEY, B.. Manning calls upon, 266. 
 
 LIPPITT, Moses, on committee of Cor 
 poration to build brick house for the 
 Grammar School, 67. 
 
 LITCHFIELD, Ct., land and crops, 267. 
 
 LITERATURE an handmaid to religion, 
 207. 
 
 LITTLEFIELD, Major, Manning drives 
 with at West Point, 282. 
 
506 
 
 I NDEX. 
 
 LIVINGSTON, Governor, British attempt j 
 
 to take, 271. 
 
 LLEWELYN, Thomas, a distinguished 
 Cambro-British scholar, subscriber to 
 early funds of the College, 91; refer 
 ences to, 124, 125, 182, 194, 317, 370. 
 See LETTERS. 
 
 LLEWELYN COLLEGE, name suggested 
 by Manning for Rhode Island College, 
 319. 
 
 LOCKE on the Understanding, text 
 book in College, 305. 
 LONGINUS on the Sublime, text-book 
 
 in College, 305. 
 
 LONGFELLOW, Henry W., 401. 
 LORING, James, Reminiscences of Dr. 
 
 Stillman, cited, 134. 
 
 LOSSING S Pictorial History of the 
 American Revolution, cited, 170, 274, 
 278. 
 
 LOTTERY, suggested to aid the College, 
 197; Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Dr. 
 Hopkins s Church, Newport, etc., 
 aided by lotteries, 197; list of lotteries 
 granted by General Assembly, 1752-79 
 197; to aid in building Baptist meet 
 ing-house, 228; Ryland-s opinion of 
 lotteries, 203 ; Manning s opinion, 
 214. 
 LOVE S Surveying,text-bookin College, 
 
 305. 
 
 LOWNDES S Bibliographer s Manual, ci 
 ted, 446. 
 
 LOWTH S Vernacular Grammar, text 
 book in College, 305. 
 
 LUDDINGTON, Col., 283. 
 
 LUDLOW, Peter, married daughter o 
 Stephen Gano, 366. 
 
 LUDLOW, Mrs., and the MANNING PA 
 PERS, 7. 
 
 LYNDON, Josias, 47; connection with 
 College Charter, 54; present at firsl 
 meeting of Corporation, 04; at meet 
 ing to determine location of College, 
 110; Governor of Rhode Island, 66. 
 
 LYON, Ebenezer, baptizes Winchester 
 332. 
 
 LYON, Merrick and Emory, Principals 
 of the" University Grammar School," 
 67. 
 
 LYON S FARMS, 272, 280. 
 
 MCCLELLAN, Wm., admitted to the de 
 gree of A. B. in 1782, 289. 
 MACCLURE, David, 438. 
 McDuGAL, General, 282. 
 MACLAURIN S Fluxions, 217. 
 MAIN STREET, Providence, paved by 
 
 John Brown, 168. 
 
 VIACKANESS, Thomas, of London, part 
 ner with Mr. Thornton, 244, 247, 251, 
 253, 293, 352; Manning writes to, 353. 
 McKm, John, 335. 
 
 MS, from Baltimore, 279. 
 MANN, Horace, marries youngest 
 
 daughter of President Messer, 410. 
 MANILIUS S Astronomicon, 304. 
 MANNING, James, birth and parentage, 
 24; enters the Hopewell Academy, 
 25; conversion and baptism, 26; ad 
 mitted into the College of New Jersey 
 at Princeton, 27; student life, 31; 
 death of President Davies, 32 ; gradu 
 ates with salutatory honors, 32; mar 
 riage, 33; father-in-law, 34; ordina 
 tion, 34 ; travels through the Colonies, 
 36; receives call from Baptist church 
 in Charleston, S.C.,37; Rhode Inland 
 College projected by Philadelphia 
 Baptist Association, 43; Manning es 
 pecially intrusted with the enterprise, 
 45; arrival at Newport in July, 1763, 
 45; his own narrative of the history 
 of the College from this point, 46-51; 
 present at first meeting of Corpora 
 tion, C4; removes to Warren and 
 begins a Latin School, 67; organizes 
 a Baptist church and becomes the 
 pastor, 68-70; appointed President of 
 the College, 71 ; founder of the War 
 ren Association, 72-84; gives the 
 charge at Hezckiah Smith s ordina 
 tion, 75, 130; writes the circular let 
 ter of Warren Association in 17G9, 83; 
 promir.encc ar.d usefulness cs a mem 
 ber of the Warren and Phi adelphia 
 Associations, 82-83; sunders his con 
 nection with the church at Warren, 
 and removes with the College to Prov 
 idence, in 1770, 117, 118; new and en 
 larged sphere of action, 120; gives 
 right hand of fellowship at Dr. Shep- 
 ard s ordination in Stratham, 123; 
 
INDEX. 
 
 507 
 
 settlement as pastor of the Baptist 
 church, Providence, 178-180; feelings 
 in view of the responsibility of his po 
 sition as pastor and President. 181; 
 placed by divine Providence at head 
 of the College, 181 ; not for ease and 
 worldly advantage, 182; preaches 
 with happy zeal and earnestness, 183 ; 
 address to graduating class of 1771, 
 193 ; skill in urging claims of the Col 
 lege upon men of wealth, 194; sug 
 gests to Ryland a lottery to aid the 
 College, 197; retains charge of the 
 Latin School, and furnishes students 
 with text-books, 198 ; salary in 1772, 
 199; journey through the western 
 provinces, 200; suggests a visit to 
 England to collect funds for College, 
 200; distressed with headache, 207; 
 makes a preaching tour in Connecti 
 cut during vacation, 209; his genial 
 companionship and rare social quali 
 ties, 209; designs to write and publish 
 a narrative of the College, 215, 220; 
 uses the " discipline of the rod," 219; 
 spends a fall vacation, in 1773, riding 
 350 miles, preaching twenty-five times 
 and baptizing, 221,223; influences his 
 church and congregation to build a 
 new meeting-house, 230; chairman of 
 committee to draft charter for Bap 
 tist society, 227; delayed in writing 
 history of the College by " grievous 
 diarrhoea," 231,232; special effort in 
 1774 in behalf of religious liberty, 235- 
 239; duties and occupation during the 
 interruption of College by the war, 
 243; great revival in his church at 
 breaking out of the war, 246; tact and 
 delicacy in efforts to alleviate the dis 
 tressed, 250; skill as a controversial 
 ist, 253; instance of humane disposi- 
 sition, 259; discharges with skill an 
 important and civil function, 259, 260 ; 
 anecdote respecting " dark day, "260; 
 thoughts of the College uppermost in 
 in his mind, urges Baptist ministers 
 to open Latin schools as nurseries of, 
 261; sets out with Mrs. Manning on 
 journey to Philadelphia in 1779, 265 ; 
 diary during absence of five months, 
 
 266-286; illustration of his high social 
 position, 283; endeavors to revive 
 College instruction in 1780, 288; sala 
 ry $300, 288 ; on committee of Warren 
 Association to prepare spelling-book 
 and Baptist catechism, 291; retains 
 the idea of travelling to solicit funds 
 for the College, 292, 299 ; presents me 
 morial to the Corporation on the sub 
 ject, 295-297 ; dignity and grace as a 
 presiding officer at Commencements, 
 300; prepares new digest of the Col 
 lege laws, 304; ideas respecting col 
 lege government and discipline, 307; 
 sketches plan for an education socie 
 ty to aid pious students, 315, 316; 
 keeps an assortment of books import 
 ed yearly for supply of College and 
 friends, 317; prompted to plan voy 
 age to Europe.326; Moderator of War 
 ren Association in 1784, 330 ; appoint 
 ed by Philadelphia Association to in 
 vestigate and report on Winchester, 
 335; prepares and sends catalogue of 
 books in College Library to Caleb 
 Evans, 338; "oppressed with cares," 
 " trying experiences," 342 ; salary 
 eighty pounds per annum, 342; re 
 ceives in 1785 the honorary degree of 
 Doctor in Divinity from the Univer 
 sity of Pennsylvania, 350; regards it 
 as "an empty sound," 350; baptizes 
 three, and preaches to large and at 
 tentive audiences, 353; confined to 
 constant teaching at the College, 353; 
 conceives plan for educating Baptist 
 ministers in Kentucky, 354; details, 
 356, 367; believes in "acts of public 
 utility," 357; zeal in behalf of minis 
 terial education, 358; assists at ordi 
 nation of his nephew, Stephen Gano, 
 365; carries an application to Con 
 gress for rents and damages of Col 
 lege building, 366; preaches funeral 
 sermon of Joseph Brown, 163, 371; 
 unanimously appointed, in 1786, to 
 represent Rhode Island in the Con 
 gress of the Confederation, 378; com 
 plimented by Dr. Jackson, of Con 
 necticut, for his readiness and skill as 
 a writer, 379 ; controversy in Congress 
 
508 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 with a delegate from Georgia, 379; 
 reasons for accepting appointment to 
 Congress, 381, 384, 388 ; interests of 
 the College uppermost in his mind, 
 380; desires fund to educate pious 
 Baptist youth, 331; considers politics 
 as out of his province, 381, 384; de 
 clines pastoral care of the church as 
 incompatible with College engage 
 ments, 381, 383; unconsciously de 
 scribes his own character as a pastor 
 and preacher, 381; endeavors to per 
 suade Hezekiah Smith to succeed him 
 in the pastorate, 389; trying situation 
 iu Congress without a colleague and 
 without funds, 390, 391, 392; treated 
 with respect by members of Congress, 
 comprehends fully the great questions 
 of the hour, 391, 406; sick, in 1787, 
 without provisions, wood, or money, 
 398; has serious thoughts of retiring 
 to farm in the Jerseys, and " digging" 
 for a support, 399; anxious for the 
 ratification of the Constitution, 404- 
 403 ; attends upon the debates and 
 proceedings of the Massachusetts Con 
 vention, called upon by Gov. Hancock 
 to " close the solemn convocation 
 with thanksgiving and prayer," ex 
 traordinary impression produced by 
 his devotion and eloquence, 404-406; 
 adoption of the Constitution in Khode 
 Island largely due to his wise coun 
 sels and superior influence, 407; assists 
 Gano, his brother-in-law, off for Ken 
 tucky, 411 ; demand for his services 
 in College greater than ever, 411; ef 
 forts in behalf of popular education, 
 chairman of school committee, draws 
 up report in favor of free public 
 schools, etc., 416-419; drafts petition 
 to Congress in behalf of citizens of 
 1 rovideuce, 424; address to graduat 
 ing class of 1789, 425-427; custom at 
 every Commencement to charge pu 
 pils not to enter the ministry until 
 converted, 427; has thoughts of pre 
 paring an Essay on the Kingdom of 
 Christ, 428; revival in his church, 
 house crowded with anxious inquir 
 ers, 434 ; presides for the last time at 
 
 Commencement, 436; resigns his pas 
 toral oflice and preaches farewell ser 
 mon, 449; notifies the Corporation to 
 look out for a successor, 449, 450 ; sin 
 gular presentiment of his approaching 
 mortality : sickness, death, and fune 
 ral, 450-455 ; personal appearance, 
 habits, character, and influence, 456, 
 457, 459, 460; original portrait, 459; 
 corpulency, 460; devotion to the Col 
 lege the animating motive of his con 
 duct, and the improvement of the 
 Baptist denomination the object of 
 his life, 462, 463 ; no extended me 
 moir of him ever published, 5 ; ac 
 count of the Manning Papers. 7. See 
 COLLEGE, BAPTISTS, and LETTERS. 
 
 MANNING, Elizabeth, wife of James, 
 34, 68, 209, 265, 351 ; baptized by her 
 husband, 34, 246 ; " boast of her sex," 
 260. 
 
 MANNING, Isaac, father of James, 24, 
 280,281. 
 
 MANNING, Catherine, mother of James, 
 24, 280, 292. 
 
 MANNING, Enoch, brother of James,448. 
 
 MANNING, Jeremiah, brother of James, 
 271, 272, 280. 
 
 MANNING, Joseph, brother of James, 
 "ruling elder "in the Scotch Plains 
 church, 271, 272, 280. 
 
 MANNING, John, brother of James, 280. 
 
 MANNING, John, cousin of James, 280, 
 448. 
 
 MANNING, Benjamin, 272, 278. 
 
 MANNING, Capt. William, 272. 
 
 MANNING HALL, erected by Hon. Nich 
 olas Brown and presented to the Uni 
 versity, 395; named in honor of his 
 " distinguished instructor and revered 
 friend, President Manning," 395. 
 
 MANSION of John Brown, one of the 
 finest private residences in New Eng 
 land, 169; College mansion, built in 
 1770, 296. 
 
 MARSH, Joseph, of Philadelphia, 95. 
 
 MARSH, Susannah, second wife of Dr. 
 Itogers, 95. 
 
 MARLOW on singing in public worship, 
 179. 
 
 MARTIN, Jacob, 272. 
 
509 
 
 MARTIN, Mr., Baptist minister of Lon 
 don, bitter enemy of the Americans, 
 393. 
 
 MARTIN on the Globes, text-book in 
 College, also Trigonometry and Phil- 
 osophia Britannica, 305. 
 MARTIN, ship in which Chad Brown 
 
 came over, 143. 
 
 MASON, Deacon, of Boston, 353. 
 MASON, llussell, present at early meet 
 ings of Corporation, 67; at meeting 
 which determined location of College 
 110; on committee to wait on Man 
 ning, 112; Manning advises with in 
 reference to pastorate of church at 
 Providence, 179. 
 MASON, Job, 179. 
 MASON, James Brown, son-in-law of 
 
 John Brown, 170. 
 MASON, Jonathan, Jr., 424. 
 MASONIC FRATERNITY, Dr. llogers 
 member of, 93; Gen. Varnum, 97, 
 100; Joseph. John, and Moses Brown 
 members, 175; Dr. Gano and Bishop 
 (Jriswold, 3G6. 
 
 MASSACHUSETTS, shamefully deficient 
 in number of Continental troops, 141; 
 and Warwick, Rhode Island, 146; 
 Convention for adoption of Federal 
 Constitution, account of, 403, 404. 
 MASSACHUSETTS MISSIONARY MAGA 
 ZINE, cited, 40, 100, 440. 
 MAWNEY, John, actor in affair of the 
 
 Gaspee, 172. 
 
 MAXSON, John, present at first meeting 
 of Corporation, 64; at meeting to de 
 termine final location of College, 110; 
 on committee to wait on Manning, 
 112. 
 
 MAXCY, Jonathan, pupil of William 
 Williams, 105; graduate in class of 
 1787, 401 ; youngest tutor in College, 
 baptized by Manning, 428; licensed to 
 preach, preaches to admiration, 432; 
 supplies pulpit six months, improves 
 amazingly, 437 ; elected pastor of Bap 
 tist church in 1791, 448; elected Pres 
 ident pro tempore in 1792, and Presi 
 dent in 1797, 401; references to, 164 
 296, 307, 316,452; biographical sketch, 
 401-403. 
 
 43* 
 
 MAXCY, Virgil, son of Jonathan, 403. 
 
 MEACIIAM, Joseph, 81. 
 
 MEETING STREET schoolhouse, 119, 198. 
 
 MECHANICS, Joseph Brown s favorite 
 study, 162. 
 
 MEDFIELD, Warren Association meets 
 at, 236. 
 
 MEDICAL SCHOOLS, Harvard one of the 
 earliest in America, 300. 
 
 MERCHANT, Mr., 277. 
 
 MESNARD, Thomas, 326, 440. 
 
 MESSER, A^:a, enters Sophomore Class 
 in College, 409; graduates in class of 
 1790, 436; corresponds with Dr. Rich 
 ards respecting the College, 446; ref 
 erences to, 296, 436, 448; biographical 
 sketch, 409-411. See LETTERS. 
 
 MIDLAND ASSOCIATION, England, 203. 
 
 MIFLIN, Thomas, delegate to Congress, 
 237. 
 
 MILFORD, Ct., Manning attends elec 
 tion meeting in, 284. 
 
 MILES, John, pastor of First Baptist 
 Church, Boston, 135. 
 
 MILES, Samuel, of Philadelphia, 435. 
 
 MILLER, Andrew, bookseller in Eng- 
 iand, 217. 
 
 MILLER, Benjamin, Manning s early 
 pastor, 26; friendship for Isaac Stelle, 
 33; Moderator of Philadelphia Asso 
 ciation, 77 ; present at second meeting 
 of Warren Association, 78; Manning 
 visits, 272, 280, 281; death, 295; brief 
 sketch of, 26, 27. 
 
 MILLER, Daniel, represents Cumber 
 land Church at first meeting of War 
 ren Association, 75. 
 
 MILLER, Col. Nathan, of Warren, Man 
 ning s colleague in Congress, 391, 392; 
 daughter married to William Wil 
 liams, 104. See LETTERS. 
 
 MILLER, Patience, daughter of Nathan, 
 104. 
 
 MINISTER of Christ not to meddle 
 with politics, 245; to succeed Manning 
 in the pastorate, description of, 381, 
 382. 
 
 MINUTES of Philadelphia and Warren 
 Associations, cited, 56, 74, 81, 290, 320. 
 See WARREN and PHILADELPHIA. 
 MITCHELL, Edward, 154. 
 
510 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 MODERATION, spirit of more prevalent, 
 
 3G2. 
 
 MONEY, scarcity of, 339, 384, 388. 
 MONOPOLIZERS, forestallers, etc., 275. 
 MONTAGUE, Admiral, 171. 
 MONTAGUE, Richard, 81. 
 MONTAGUE, Tommy, " flaming young 
 
 preacher," 412. 
 
 MOORE S SCHEME for College, 125, 184. 
 MOORE, Dr., of Bordentown, 277. 
 MORALS of the country improving, 362. 
 MOREHOUSE, Col., 268. 
 Mono AN, Abel, and Mr. Hollis, 40; 
 
 receives honorary degree of the Col 
 lege, 89. 
 MORGAN, Dr. John, brother-in-law of 
 
 Dr. Stillmau, 133. 
 MORGAN, Capt., 271. 
 MORRICE, Robert, original owner of 
 
 part of College lot, 116. 
 MORRIS, Mr., of Philadelphia, 279. 
 MORRIS, Col., Manning dines with at 
 
 Greene s headquarters, 282. 
 MORRISTOWN to Warwick, N. Y., 
 
 country full of grain, 270. 
 MOTHER, The, and her adherents, 312. 
 
 313. 
 
 MOULDERS, Mr., 277, 279. 
 MOUNT TOM, " tremendous precipice," 
 
 268. 
 MOUNT VERNON LODGE, Providence, 
 
 Dr. Gauo member of, 366. 
 MULLETT, Thomas, brother-in-law of 
 
 Caleb Evans. 308 ; references to, 310, 
 
 340, 341,355, 414; sketch and anecdote 
 
 of, 310, 311. 
 
 MUMFORD, Paul, Chief Justice, 99. 
 MURRAT, John, propagates doctrine of 
 
 universal salvation, 294, 312. 
 
 NARRATIVE of the College, referred to 
 in Manning s correspondence, 206, 
 208, 212, 217, 220, 222, 250; never com 
 pleted, 232, 233. 
 
 NASH, Samuel, graduate in class of 
 1770, 128. 
 
 NASSAU HALL, Princeton, 27, 112, 116. 
 
 NATIONAL ALMANAC for 1864, cited, 
 38. 
 
 NATURAL HISTORY, Dr. Waterhouse 
 lectures on, 300. 
 
 NEALE, Rollin H., pastor of First 
 Baptist Church, Boston, 135. 
 
 NEGROES and Indian slaves enlisted as 
 soldiers, 264. 
 
 NELSON, Rev. Mr., at Haverhill, 111. 
 
 NESHAMING FORD, 273. 
 
 NEAV AMERICAN CYCLOPAEDIA, cited, 
 239. 
 
 NEW BAPTIST MAGAZINE, cited, 94. 
 
 NEAV ENGLAND, 197, 199, 293; 362, 364. 
 
 NEW HAVEN, burnt and sacked by the 
 British, 277, 285. 
 
 NEWPORT, rival of Providence for lo 
 cation of the College, 109-114; second 
 city iu New England, and centre of 
 wealth refinement and learning, 113; 
 application to General Assembly for 
 another college to be located in, 114; 
 British troops take possession oi , 242. 
 
 NEW EOCHELLE, Gauo s ancestors set 
 tled at, 34. 
 
 NEW TESTAMENT,text-book in College, 
 305. 
 
 NEW YORK, plot formed to blow up 
 and destroy, Mayor in confinement, 
 141; British take possession of, 269; 
 vigorous exertions to retake, 142 ; re 
 vival in, 364. 
 
 NEW YORK RECORDER, cited, 46. 
 
 NEWTON, James, 369, 384. 
 
 NEWTON, John, 189. 
 
 NIGHTINGALE, Col., " grand farm, ele 
 gant hospitality," 266. 
 
 NOBLE S Memoirs of Protect/oral House 
 of Cromwell, 446. 
 
 NORCOTT S work on Baptism, means 
 of Dr. Shepard s conversion, 123. 
 
 NORTH BURYING-GROUND, Providence, 
 149. 
 
 NORWALK, burnt by the British, 277. 
 
 NUNN, Mary, of Cork, Ireland, wife of 
 Morgan Edwards, 45. 
 
 OLD CONGRESS, sessions in Carpenter s 
 Hall, 237. 
 
 OLNEY, Thomas, minister of the Bap 
 tist church, Providence, 148, 154. 
 
 OLNEY, Mr., Manning dines with at 
 West Point, 282. 
 
 OLIVER, Alderman, committed to the 
 Tower, 184. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 511 
 
 OPPRESSION of the Baptists by the 
 Standing Order," 80, 185, 235-238, 
 330, 331. See BAPTISTS, DISTRESS, 
 and PERSECUTION. 
 
 OTIS, Major, calls on Manning, 285. 
 
 OULTON, John, of England, 190. 
 
 OXFORD UNIVERSITY, Obadiah Holmes 
 educated at, 151. 
 
 PAGE, Benj., actor in affair of the Gas- 
 pee, 172. 
 
 PAINE, Robert Treat, delegate to Con 
 gress, 237. 
 
 TAPER MONEY, depreciation of, 265, 
 275; emissions of, flagrant violation 
 of the public faith, 392; case of Tre- 
 vett vs. Weeden, 98, 99. 
 
 PARABLE of the Sower, Stennett s ser 
 mons on "truly excellent," 414. 
 
 PARCHMENT of William Williams, 106. 
 
 PARK, Edwards A., Memoir of Dr. 
 Hopkins, cited, 197; sketch of Presi 
 dent Messer, cited, 410. 
 
 PARKER, Isaiah, Trustee of Baptist Ed 
 ucation Fund, 316. 
 
 PARKER, Sir Peter, takes possession of 
 Newport, 242. 
 
 PARLIAMENT, sovereignty of over all 
 the British dominions, 125. 
 
 PATRIOT STATESMAN, Manning s ca 
 reer as a, 378. 
 
 PATRONAGE of the College contributes 
 directly to the propagation of the 
 gospel in its simplicity, 319. 
 
 PATTERSON, Esquire, 283. 
 
 PEALE, Rembrandt, 93, 396. 
 
 PEARCE, Daniel, 171. 
 
 PEASE, Simon, present at first meeting 
 
 of the Corporation, 63. 
 PEDOBAPTISTS and the Baptists, 108 
 295, 330, 331, 339, 349, 428. See CON 
 
 GREGATIONALISTS, PRESBYTERIANS 
 
 and STANDING ORDER. 
 
 PEIRCE S History of Harvard Univ-er 
 sity, cited, 40, 121. 
 
 PHILADELPHIA, 236, 237, 276. 
 
 PHILADELPHIA BAPTIST ASSOCIA 
 TION, founded in 1707, 39; aids th 
 Hopewell Academy, 40; plans Rhod 
 Island College, 43; sends committe 
 to Newport to alter and amend firs 
 
 draft of the Charter, 50, 54; influ 
 ence in behalf of the College, 56, 57; 
 references to, 75, 77, 82, 83, 205, 236- 
 238, 274, 458, 335, 461. 
 PHILADELPHIA, Baptist church. See 
 
 BAPTIST. 
 PHILBRICK, James and wife, baptized, 
 
 122. 
 
 PHILIPS, Mr., tavern at Litchfield, 267. 
 PELOT, Francis, aids in founding the 
 " Religious Society," of Charleston, 
 31; writes to Hezekiah Smith respect 
 ing Morgan Edwards, 44; appointed 
 to address the Baptist churches 
 throughout America in behalf of the 
 College, 58; reference to. 219. See 
 LETTERS. 
 
 PEMBERTON, Israel and James, Quak 
 ers of Philadelphia, 237, 239. 
 ENMANSHIP, Manning excelled in, 
 25. 
 PENN, Thomas, subscriber to the early 
 
 funds of the College, 91. 
 ENNEPEK, and vicinity, 274. 
 PENNSYLVANIA GAZETTE, cited, 33. 
 PENNSYLVANIA LINE under Gen. St. 
 Clair, 271. 
 
 ERIAM, Joseph, classmate of Man 
 ning, 33. 
 
 ?ERKINS, Nathan, 438. 
 PERRY, Commodore, hero of Lake Erie, 
 
 portrait in Rhode Island Hall, 396. 
 PERSECUTION, instances of, 138, 331; 
 remarks of Prof. linowles on perse 
 cution and intolerance, 191, 192. 
 PITMAN, Rev. Mr., 278. 
 PITMAN S Alumni Address, cited, 87. 
 PLACE, Elder, 154. 
 POLAND a monarchial despotism, 359. 
 POLEMIC warfare, Manning skilful in, 
 
 253. 
 POLITICS, ministers not to meddle with, 
 
 245. 
 
 POLSIPER, Hannah, baptized, 123. 
 POPULAR APPLAUSE, sought by Win 
 chester, 333. 
 
 POPULAR EDUCATION, Manning s ef 
 forts in behalf of, 416. 
 POPULARITY of Maxcy almost unprec 
 edented, 403. 
 PORTER, William, of England, 190. 
 
512 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 PORTRAITS in llhode Island Hall, ac 
 count of, 306, 397. 
 
 POWELL. Joseph, educated at the Hope- 
 well Academy, 42. 
 
 POWER, Col. Nicholas, father-in-law of 
 James Brown, 155. 
 
 POWER, Hope, daughter of Col. Nicho 
 las and grandaughter of Rev. Pardon 
 Tilliiighast, 155. 
 
 POWER, Nicholas, father-in-law of Jo 
 seph Brown, 101, 228. 
 
 POWER, Elizabeth, daughter of Nicho 
 las, 164. 
 
 POYNTING, John, of England, 190. 
 
 PRAYER for colleges, importance of, 
 23. 
 
 PRAYER and imposition of hands, 92. 
 
 PREACHING to the poor without recom 
 pense, " godlike," 399. 
 
 PRESBYTERIANS and Baptists, 325, 350, 
 357. 3G7, 407, 437, 442; name used by 
 Manning, Edwards, and others, for 
 Congregationalists, 186; of England, 
 and Socinianism, 189. See CONGRE 
 GATIONALISTS and STANDING OR 
 DER. 
 
 PRESBYTERIAN SYNOD of New York, 
 founds College of New Jersey, 27. 
 
 PREDESTINATION, Toplady s Treatise 
 on.221. 
 
 PREJUDICES against the Baptists great 
 ly abated, 328. 
 
 PRESENT, Jcremfah, baptized, 122. 
 
 PRESIDENT S house, erected on College 
 premises in 1770, 296- 
 
 PRESIDENT S Levee, took the place of 
 the " Commencement Sermon," 90. 
 
 PREVOST, General, attacks Charleston, 
 273. 
 
 PRICE, Richard, referred to by Maxcy, 
 as (i preeminent in virtue," 402. 
 
 PRICES, lowering of by committee at 
 Philadelphia, 276. 
 
 PRIESTLEY, Joseph, " gone to the ne 
 plus ultra of heresy," 415 ; referred to 
 by Maxcy as " preeminent in virtue," 
 402; Lectures on History " best book 
 on that interesting subject." 414; ref 
 erences to, 431, 439. 
 
 PRINCLTON, College of New Jersey re 
 moved to, 27. j 
 
 PRINTS of Gill, Evans, and Rippon, 
 325, 326. 
 
 PRISONERS taken at Stony Point "fine 
 looking men," 279. 
 
 PRIVATE SCHOOLS less efficient than 
 public, 418, 419. 
 
 PROFESSION, bias of natural inclination 
 to be consulted in the selection of, 
 426. 
 
 PROFESSION of religion, never made by 
 Nicholas Brown, 158. 
 
 PROPHESYING among early Baptists in 
 Providence, 148. 
 
 PROUDFIT, Alexander, 402. See LET 
 TERS. 
 
 PROVIDENCE, home of Roger Williams 
 and centre of Baptist influence, 114; 
 Providence, Roger Williams and 
 Chad Brown, 143- 150; contest between 
 and Newport in reference to loca 
 tion of the College, 1C9-114; raising 
 of the Baptist meeting-house a holi 
 day, 229; deed of College lot and 
 names of original owners, 115, 116; re 
 vival, 244, 246, 293: martial law pro 
 claimed, 242; condition during the 
 war, 292, 293, 313, 314; trade again 
 opened direct to London, 309; bells 
 tolled and school children dismissed 
 on death of Dr. Gano, 365; praised 
 for its political action with reference 
 to Federal Constitution, 414; free 
 schools, 417-419; petition to Con 
 gress praying that vessels may be ex 
 empted from foreign tonnage, 424; 
 ringing of bells and booming of can 
 non on adoption of Federal Consti 
 tution, 433; visit of General Washing 
 ton and suite, 433. 
 
 PROVIDENCE ASSOCIATION OP ME 
 CHANICS, 419. 
 
 PROVIDENCE ATHENAEUM, Nicholas 
 Brown, beneafctor of, 395. 
 
 PROVIDENCE BAPTIST CHURCH. See 
 BAPTIST. 
 
 PROVIDENCE ENCAMPMENT, Dr. Gano 
 and Bishop Griswold members of, 
 306. 
 
 PROVIDENCE GAZETTE, cited, 8, 88, 109, 
 127, 193, 198, 240, 243, 258, 287, 433, 451, 
 459. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 513 
 
 PUBLIC SCHOOLS, established in Provi 
 dence in 1800, 419 ; more efficient than 
 private, 418. 
 
 PULASKI, Count, attacks the British and 
 is repulsed, 273. 
 
 PYE, John, of England, 190. 
 
 QUAKERS, or Friends, represented at 
 first meeting of the Corporation, 65; 
 allowed to wear their hats in College, 
 GO. 
 
 QUINCY S History of Harvard Univer 
 sity, cited, 121, 122. 
 
 RAISING of the new Baptist meeting 
 house, general holiday in town, 229. 
 
 RANDAL, Dr., 292. 
 
 RANDALL, Rev. Dr., of Boston, 175. 
 
 RANDALL, Rev. Mr., of Warwick, 270. 
 
 RANDOLPH, Joseph, uncle of Manning, 
 271, 280. 
 
 RANDOLPH, Mrs. Ephraim, aunt of 
 Manning, 448. 
 
 RANDOLPH, Capt. Samuel, 272. 
 
 RATES, non-payment of, by Baptists, 
 231. 
 
 RATIFICATION of the Federal Consti 
 tution in Massachusetts,406 ; in Rhode 
 Island, 433. 
 
 RAWMAGIN Iron-Works, 268. 
 
 READ, Josiah, graduate in class of 
 1775, 240. 
 
 READ, Seth, graduate in class of 1770. 
 128- 
 
 REBAPTIZING, Evans upon, 429. 
 
 REDWOOD, Abraham, largest subscriber 
 in Newport for the College, 109. 
 
 REDWOOD, Dr., of Philadelphia, 276. 
 
 REDWOOD LIBRARY, Newport, second 
 library in the country, 113. 
 
 REDJIEN, Dr. John, an adherent of 
 Winchester, 334. 
 
 REED, President of Pennsylvania, 275. 
 
 REEVE, lawyer of Litchfield, 268. 
 
 REFORMATION in New England during 
 latter part of the war, 294. 
 
 REHOBOTH, Mass., Winchester settled 
 in, 333. 
 
 RELIGION, state of through America, 
 308. 
 
 RELIGION of Jesus, nature of, 326. 
 
 RELIGIOUS CONDITION of New England 
 during the war, 293. 
 
 RELIGIOUS OPINIONS, diversity of, to be 
 expected, 402. 
 
 RELIGIOUS LIBERTY, contended for by 
 Roger Williams and all true Baptists, 
 47, 59; Backus s labors to promote, 
 131; Manning s exertions in favor of, 
 235, 233-239; Baptists determined to 
 secure, 330, 331; doctrines of, better 
 understood after the war, 322, 339. 
 
 RELIGIOUS SOCIETY of Charleston, to 
 aid pious students, 31, 133. 
 
 RELLY S Doctrine of Union, etc., cited, 
 312. 
 
 REPAIRS of the College, 329. 
 
 REPORTS, exaggerated, respecting vic 
 tories, 273. 
 
 RESTORATION, UNIVERSAL, doctrine 
 propagated by Winchester, 333, 334. 
 
 REVERENCE for Deity, Mr. Brown re 
 markable for, 158, 159. 
 
 REVIVALS OF RELIGION, references to, 
 61, 153, 180, 244, 245, 309, 324, 328, 344, 
 384, 386, 406, 409, 410, 412, 432. 
 
 REYNOLDS, John, honorary degree con 
 ferred on, 128. 
 
 RHODE ISLAND, laud of Baptists, 42; 
 decided religious faith of first settlers, 
 46; first Stale holiday inaugurated, 
 87; trying period in early history, 152; 
 lotteries granted by General Assem 
 bly, 197; firm in the cause of consti 
 tutional liberty, 208; extreme suffer 
 ings of the people during the war, 
 258-260, 264, 313-314; taxes enormous, 
 265; "likely to hold a distinguished 
 place among the contributors to the 
 ruin of the Federal Government," 
 392; wilful blindness of the General 
 Assembly, "infamous set of men," 
 98, 99, 398; act in relation to free 
 schools, 419; rejects the Constitution, 
 "rulers deliberately wicked," 411; 
 make " disgraceful figure among her 
 sister States," 414; adoption of the 
 Constitution in 1790 by a vote of two 
 majority, 433; zeal in struggle for lib 
 erty and independence acknowledged 
 by Washington, 435; limitation of 
 clause in the College Charter exempt- 
 
514 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 ing Professors from taxation, made 
 by General Assembly in 1863, 479. 
 
 KIIODE ISLAND BAPTIST EDUCATION 
 SOCIETY, 816. 
 
 RHODE ISLAND COLLEGE. See COL 
 LEGE. 
 
 RHODE ISLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY, 
 9, 146. 
 
 RHODE ISLAND HALL, Brown Univer 
 sity, collection of portraits in, 393, 397. 
 
 RHODE ISLAND LITERARY REPOSITO 
 RY, cited, 6, 2G9. 
 
 RHODES, Mayor of Philadelphia, 237. 
 
 RICHARDS, William, of Lynn, England, 
 letter to Manning, 441; skclch of his 
 life and works, 445-447 ; bequeaths his 
 collection of books, consisting of 
 thirteen hundred volumes, to Library 
 of Brown University, 447. See LET 
 TERS. 
 
 RICHMOND, N. H., Baptists distressed 
 by " Standing Order," 186. 
 
 RICHMOND S brick house, 119. 
 
 RICKARD, George, original owner of 
 part of College lot, 116. 
 
 RILEY, Mr., of Northampton, 386. 
 
 RIND, Mr., of Charleston, early in 
 structor of Dr. Stillman, 132. 
 
 RINGWOOD, England, situation of, 421. 
 
 RIPPON, John, successor of Dr. Gill, 
 opens a correspondence with Man 
 ning, 323; autobiography, 323; hon 
 orary degree conferred on, 329, 332; 
 references to, 337, 346, 3C5, 407. Sec 
 LETTERS. 
 
 RIPPON S Baptist Annual Register, ci 
 ted and referred to, 44, 95, 436, 410, 
 441. 
 
 ROBBINS, Asher, tutor in College and 
 first librarian, 329; references to, 292, 
 300, 349, 378, 397, 411 ; sketch of, 329 ; 
 portrait in Rhode Island Hall, 390. 
 See LETTERS. 
 
 ROBBINS, Mr. E., of New York, 437. 
 
 ROBERDEAN, Daniel, merchant, 201. 
 
 ROBINSON, Robert, of Cambridge, 218; 
 author of " History of Baptism, " 
 and "Ecclesiastical Researches," 414. 
 430, 431, 439, 445; " thorough-faced So- 
 cinian, 438, 439. 
 
 ROBINSON, George, of Bridgewater, re 
 
 vival under his preaching, 409; Trus 
 tee of Baptist Education Fund, 316. 
 
 ROBINSON, Rev. Mr., of Mansfield, 266. 
 
 ROCK OF AGES, etc.. Toplady author 
 of, 204. 
 
 RODXAN, Isaac P., Brigadier-General 
 of Rhode Island, fell in battle of An- 
 tietam, portrait in Rhode Island Hall, 
 397. 
 
 ROD, discipline of the, 219. 
 
 ROFFEY, Samuel, one of the earliest 
 benefactors of the College, 91, 124; 
 death mentioned, 182. 
 
 ROGERS, Capt. William, of Newport, 
 52, 91. 
 
 ROGERS, Sarah, 91. 
 
 ROGERS. Dr. William, son of preced 
 ing, first student of the College, 86; 
 graduates in 1769, 88; liked in Phila 
 delphia, 160; resemblance to Hezekiah 
 Smith, 181; labors owned of God "to 
 admiration," 197 ; present at confer 
 ence with delegates to Congress, 237; 
 Manning calls on, 274; signer to ad 
 dress of the Baptist church respecting 
 Winchester, 335 ; appointed by the 
 Corporation to solicit benefactions 
 for the College in Europe, 299; 
 preaches funeral sermon of Morgan 
 Edwards, 44, 96; reference to, 446; 
 biographical sketch, 91-96; portrait 
 in Rhode Island Hall, 93, 396. See 
 LETTERS. 
 
 ROGERS, Mrs., death of, 95. 
 
 ROGERS. Eliza J., portrait of her fa 
 ther, 93, 396. 
 
 ROGERS, Joseph, of Providence, 
 " mourns the loss of a dear and ami 
 able wife," 353. 
 
 ROGERS, Robert, graduate in class of 
 1775, Fellow of the College nearly 
 half a century, 242; Trustee of Bap 
 tist Education Fund, 316. 
 
 ROGERS, Mrs. Eliza B., daughter of 
 Dr. Gano, presents a scholarship to 
 Brown University, 164. 
 
 ROGERS, Capt. John, 213. 
 
 ROGERS, Rev. Dr., of New York, 284. 
 
 ROLIN, Ephraim, 286. 
 
 ROSE S General Biographical Dictiona 
 ry, cited, 223. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 515 
 
 Ross s Historical Discourse, cited, 151. 
 
 ROUND, Richard, represents Second 
 Rehoboth Church at first meeting of 
 Warren Association, 75. 
 
 ROWLEY, of Providence, 192. 
 
 ROXBURY NECK, skirmish at, 139. 
 
 RUSSELL, John, pastor of First Baptist 
 Church, Boston, 135. 
 
 RUSH, Benjamin, one of Dr. Rogers s 
 hearers, 92; student at College with 
 Manning, 275; adherent of Winches 
 ter, 334; religious controversy with 
 Dr. Ewing, 351. 
 
 RUSSELL, Joseph, present at early 
 meetings of Corporation, 67 ; at meet 
 ing to determine final location of Col 
 lege, 110; merchant in Providence. 
 187; at meeting of Corporation in 
 1780, 288; chairman of committee to 
 superintend Manning s funeral, 451. 
 
 RUSSELL, William, 187; on advisory 
 committee for building meeting-house 
 227; appointed manager of lottery, 
 228; present at meeting of Corpora 
 tion in 1780, 288; on committee to 
 draft petition to Congress, 290. 
 
 RUSSELL on singing in public worship, 
 179. 
 
 RUSSIA a monarchial despotism, 359. 
 
 RUNYAN, Rev. Mr., 336. 
 
 RYLAND, John, of Northampton, 187; 
 honorary degree conferred on, 89; 
 annual contribution of five guineas 
 lor Manning s support, 187, 197, 200, 
 203, 214, 232 ; sketch of Augustus M. 
 Toplady, 202, 203; hints for Professor 
 Manning s use, 201, 216; list of edu 
 cated Baptist ministers in England, 
 218; references to, 208, 207, 308, 317; 
 character of, 187. See LETTERS. 
 
 RYLAND, John, D.D., son of preceding, 
 father s account of, 189 ; honorary 
 degree conferred on, 199, 345; refer 
 ence to, 310; Robert Hall on death of, 
 24. 
 
 SABINE, James, 171. 
 
 ST. CLAIR, General, 271. 
 
 ST. JOHN S Church, Providence, closed 
 
 during the war, 255. 
 ST. JOHN S Lodge, Providence, Moses 
 
 Brown Secretary of, 175. See MA 
 SONIC FRATERNITY. 
 
 ST. MARTIN S IN THE FIELDS, one of 
 finest churches in London, 229. 
 
 SANDERSON S ALGEBRA, 217. 
 
 SAURIN S Works, presented to College, 
 341; proposals to publish, 325, 326. 
 
 SAVAGE, James, note on Chad Brown, 
 143 ; Geological Dictionary, cited, 
 144. 
 
 SCHOOLS, public, in Providence, 418, 
 419. 
 
 SCHOLARSHIPS, inaugurated by Presi 
 dent Barnas Sears, 315 ; in accordance 
 with Manning s general views and 
 policy, 316. 
 
 SCOTCH PLAINS Baptist church, 24, 33, 
 35, 271. 
 
 SCOTT, Richard, contemporary with 
 Roger Williams and ancestor of Nich 
 olas Brown, 147, 157. 
 
 SCOTT, Joanna, mother of Rhoda 
 Jcnckes, and descendant of Richard 
 Scott. 157. 
 
 SCOTT, of Kingston, Mass., disciplined 
 by Manning, 128, 129. 
 
 SCOTT, Capt, 330. 
 
 SCRIPTURES, only rule of faith and 
 practice, 78. 
 
 SEARS, Barnas, President of Brown 
 University, scholarships inaugurated 
 by, 315, 316; acknowledgment in Pref 
 ace, 9. 
 
 SECTARIAN bitterness, now passed 
 away, 192. 
 
 SEEKERS and Separatists, 147, 149, 179. 
 
 SELF-EXALTATION, cause of Winches 
 ter s apostasy, 327. 
 
 SENTIMENTS and plan of Warren Asso 
 ciation, 78-80. 
 
 SERGEANT, Jonathan, Dickinson, class 
 mate of Manning, 33. 
 
 SESSIONS, Darius, present at meeting of 
 Corporation to determine location of 
 the College, 110; Deputy Governor, 
 171 ; Manning visits, 263. 
 
 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS, Farmingtou, 
 Ct, Manning preaches for, 267. 
 
 SHAKING QUAKERS, 344. 
 
 SHAKSPEAR, Mr., 293. 
 
 SHAKSPEAR S HEAD, Providence, 164. 
 
516 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 SHAND, Capt,, 181, 220. 
 
 SHARP, Archbishop of York, Works 
 presented to Library, 358. 
 
 SHARP, Granville, distinguished phi 
 lanthropist of London, corresponds 
 with Manning, 358. 
 
 SHAYISM, Mass., effectually crushed, 
 411. 
 
 SHELDON, Christopher, on advisory 
 committee for building meeting 
 house, 227. 
 
 SHELDON, Daniel, 154. 
 
 SHELDON, Joseph, 154. 
 
 SHELDON, Nicholas, 154. 
 
 SIIEPARD, Jonathan, represents Ha- 
 verhill church at first meeting of 
 Warren Association, 75. 
 
 SUEPARJD, Samuel, baptized by Heze- 
 kiah Smith, and ordained, 123. 
 
 SIIEPARD, Deacon, of England, makes 
 donation to College, 363. 
 
 SHERIDAN S Lectures on Elocution, 
 text-book in College, 305. 
 
 SHERMAN, Rev. Mr., of Milford, 285. 
 
 SHIELDS, Thomas, of Philadelphia, 
 276, 277, 278, 335. 
 
 SHOALS, Isle of, 138. 
 
 SHORTNESS OF LIFE, 357. 
 
 SIMPSON S FLUXIONS, 217. 
 
 SINCLAIR, Mrs., second wife of Mor- j 
 gan Edwards, 45. 
 
 SINGING IN PUBLIC WORSHIP, contro 
 versy on, 179, 
 
 SIX-PRINCIPLE BAPTISTS, 73, 154, 179. 
 
 SKILLMAN, Isaac, educated at Hope- 
 well Academy, 42; on committee of 
 grievances, 330. 
 
 SLAVE TRADE, Presbyterians, Indepen 
 dents and Anti-Pedobaptists unite in 
 efforts to abolish, 407. 
 
 SLAVERY, Moses Brown opposed to, 
 174. 
 
 SLATER, Samuel, founder of the man 
 ufacturing interests of Ilhode Island, 
 portrait in Ilhode Island Hall, 396. 
 
 SMITH, Daniel, fatlier-in-law of John 
 Brown, 170. 
 
 SMITH, Dr., of Chatham. 281. 
 
 SMITH, Dr., of Hartford, 267, 286. 
 
 SMITH, Dr., of Litchtield, 268. 
 
 SMITH, Eliphalet, of Deerfield, con 
 
 verted to Baptist sentiments while 
 preaching, 122. 
 
 SMITH, Hezekiah, of llaverhill, Mass., 
 Manning s most intimate friend, 83; 
 educated at Hopewell Academy, 42; 
 classmate of Manning in College, 33; 
 manuscript copy of the laws of Col 
 lege of New Jersey, 28; present at 
 early meetings of the Corporation, 
 67; extract from diary, 68; visits 
 Manning at Warren, 74, 75; one of 
 the five educated Baptist ministers 
 in New England in 1765, 71; repre 
 sents Haverhill church at first meet 
 ing of the Warren Association, 75; 
 Moderator of Association in 1769, 84 ; 
 on committee of grievances, 81, 330 ; 
 honorary degree conferred on, 89; 
 Pclot and Hart write to respecting 
 Morgan Edwards, 44, 45 ; extract from 
 diary, 108; elected Fellow, 109; ob 
 tains subscriptions for the College in 
 South Carolina and Georgia, 121, 126; 
 baptizes llev. Eliphalet Smith and 
 thirteen others in Deerfield, 122; bap 
 tizes Dr. Shepard, 123; marvellously 
 blessed in his labors, 183; appointed 
 agent of the Baptists to Jay their 
 case before the King of England, 
 186; birth of his first son, 209; " the 
 great man of Haverhill," 219; clerk 
 of the Warren Association in 1774, 
 238; present at meeting of Corpora 
 tion in 1782, 289; Trustee of Baptist 
 Education Fund, 316; addressed by 
 Nicholas Brown with a view to suc 
 ceeding Manning in the pastorate, 
 383; early instructor of President 
 Messer, 409; has thoughts of leaving 
 Haverhill and taking his son from 
 College, 416; still wanted in Provi 
 dence, 432; son s standing in College, 
 416, 437; Stillman, Smith, and Bald 
 win preachers at Commencement, 90; 
 papers and correspondence, 8; letters 
 to his wife while in the army, 139- 
 142; biographical sketch, 135-139. 
 See LETTERS. 
 
 SMITH, Mrs., mother of Hezekiah 390. 
 
 SMITH, Jeremiah, brother of Ilezekiah, 
 390. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 517 
 
 SMITH, Turpin, actor in affair of the 
 Gaspee, 172. 
 
 SMITH, Peter, 278. 
 
 SMITH, Rev. Mr., Cranberry, 277. 
 
 SNOW, Joseph, 127, 419; Commence 
 ment held for last time in his meeting 
 house, 233. 
 
 SNOW, Samuel, admitted to degree of 
 A. B. in 1782, 289. 
 
 SNOW, Stephen, 266. 
 
 SNOW four feet deep March 21, 1785, 351. 
 
 SOCIETY FOR PROPAGATION OF THE 
 GOSPEL, funds prostituted, 184. 
 
 SOCINIANISM and Presbyterians of 
 England, 189; indications of in Rob 
 inson s History of Baptism, 439. 
 
 SOLITARY HILL, residence of William 
 Wickenden, 148. 
 
 SOMNER, Major, 279. 
 
 SOUL-LIBERTY, 239. 
 
 SOUTH, Rev. Dr., cited, 462. 
 
 SOUTH CAROLINA, subscriptions ob 
 tained in for the College, 121, 126; 
 invasion of by the British, 2-73 ; adopts 
 the Federal Constitution, 411. 
 
 SOWARD, Col., 270, 281. 
 
 SPARK S AMERICAN BIOGRAPHY, ci 
 ted, 66. 
 
 SPEAR, Nathan, present at early meet 
 ings of Corporation, 67; at meeting 
 to determine final location of College 
 HO; member of committee on griev 
 ances, 80. 
 
 SPEAKING on the chapel stage, 305. 
 
 SPILSBURY, Mr., of London, 189. 
 
 SPECULATORS and monoplizers, 275. 
 
 SPELLING, Manning a proficient in, 25. 
 
 SPELLING-BOOK, prepared by commit 
 tee of Warren Association, 291. 
 
 SPENCER, Gen. Joseph, brief sketch, 
 276. 
 
 SPRAGUE, William B., acknowledg 
 ment in Preface, 9; Annals of the 
 American Pulpit, cited, 104, 106, 123, 
 131,134, 139, 274, 410. 
 
 STAFFORD, John, of England, worthy 
 of College honors, 190. 
 
 STAMP ACT, 91. 
 
 STANDING ORDER and the Baptists, 72, 
 80, 221,235. See CONGREGATIONAL- 
 
 IST8. 
 
 44 
 
 STANFORD, John, pastor for a time of 
 the church at Providence, 405, 511, 
 416, 440. 
 
 STAPLES S Annals of Providence,cited, 
 114, 128, 145, 191, 198, 255, 417, 433; 
 Simplicity s Defence, cited, 146; Doc 
 umentary History of Destruction of 
 Schooner Gaspee, cited, 170. 
 
 STATE lotteries referred to, 215. 
 
 STEAD, Mr., trustee for the manage 
 ment of funds, 125. 
 
 STEEPLE of Baptist meeting-house, 
 Providence, 229, 230. 
 
 STEEPLES and bells, Dissenters in Eng 
 land not allowed to use, 230. 
 
 STELLE, Benjamin, magistrate of Pis- 
 cataway, 36. 
 
 STELLE, Isaac, son of Benjamin, makes 
 prayer at Manning s ordination, 36; 
 present at second meeting of War 
 ren Association, 78; references to, 
 271, 277, 278, 295; brief sketch, 36. 
 
 STELLE, Benjamin, sou of Isaac, has 
 a Latin School in Providence, 84; 
 daughter married to Hon. Nicholas 
 Brown, 36. 
 
 STENNETT, Samuel, of London, sub 
 scriber to the early funds of the Col 
 lege, 91; Manning begins correspon 
 dence with, 120; procures repeal of 
 the Ashficld law against the Bap 
 tists, 217, 220; Discourses on Domes 
 tic Duties, 341, 355; Parable of the 
 Sower, "truly excellent," 414; ref 
 erences to, 319, 338, 344, 385; character 
 and works, 120. See LETTERS. 
 
 STEPHENS, George, of London, 189. 
 
 STEUBEN, Baron, Manning introduced 
 to at West Point, 282. 
 
 STILES, Ezra, solicited to assist in draft 
 ing Charter for Baptist College, 47; 
 Charter so drafted as to throw gov 
 erning power into hands of Congre- 
 gationalists, 48-53; connection with 
 the Charter stated in brief, 54; cher 
 ishes friendly feelings towards the 
 College, 49; reason for declining a 
 Fellowship, 49, 215 ; would have noth 
 ing to do with College, 191; state 
 ments in regard to Baptist conference 
 with delegates to Congress, 239; orig- 
 
518 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 iual draft of Charter with remarks 
 in his own handwriting published in 
 Appendix, 465-482. 
 
 STILLMAN, Samuel, of Boston, benefi 
 ciary of the " .Religious Society " of 
 Charleston, S. C., 31; name omitted 
 in Dr. Stiles s draft of the Charter, 51 ; 
 present at early meetings of Corpora 
 tion, 67; clerk of the "Warren Associ 
 ation in 1769, 84; on committee of 
 grievances, 80, 81; honorary degree 
 conferred on, 89; present at meeting 
 to determine final location of the 
 College, 110; on committee to wait on 
 Manning, 112; preaches Dr. Shep- 
 ard s ordination sermon, 123; Treas 
 urer of the Baptist churches, 186 ; pres 
 ent at meeting of Corporation in 1782, 
 289; preaches at Commencement of 
 1783, 295; chairman of committee 
 of Corporation to draft address and 
 petition to King of France, 298, 301 ; 
 Trustee of Baptist Education Fund, 
 316; chairman of committee of War 
 ren Association on grievances, 330; 
 appointed with Manning to write to 
 Rev. Hugh Evans of Bristol and so 
 licit donations for the College, 338; 
 one of the twelve representatives 
 from Boston to the Massachusetts 
 Convention, 404; popularity, 405; 
 references to, 71, 90, 323, 355, 408; 
 preaches funeral sermon of Nicholas 
 Brown, extracts from, 158, 159; writes 
 to Hczekiah Smith announcing death 
 of Manning, 453; preaches funeral 
 sermon of ilezekiah Smith, 137; bio 
 graphical sketch, 132-135. See LET 
 TERS. 
 
 STITES, John, Mayor of Elizabethtown, 
 father-in-law of Manning, 33, 34, 57, 
 89,270, 280; Dr. Dayton executor of 
 his estate, 2D2. 
 
 STITES, Mrs., mother-in-law of Man 
 ning, 336. 
 
 STITES, Margaret, daughter of John, 
 and wife of Manning, 33, 246, 265, 460. 
 
 STITES, Sarah, daughter of John, and 
 wife of John Gano, 35, 354. 
 
 STITES, John, merchant in New York, 
 brother-in-law of Manning, 355. 
 
 STITES, Richard, Manning s brother-in- 
 law, graduates at first Commence 
 ment in 1769, 88. 
 
 STITES, Dickey, son of Richard, 292. 
 
 STITES, Dr., Manning s brother-in-law, 
 277,280; educates Stephen Gano for 
 the medical profession, 364. 
 
 STITES, William, Manning s uncle, 280. 
 
 STITES, Jimmy, Manning s nephew, 
 son of Jeremiah, 336. 
 
 STONE S Life and Recollections of 
 Rowland, cited, 117, 226, 260; Life of 
 Elhanan Winchester, cited, 335. 
 
 STONE S Euclid, text-book in College, 
 305. 
 
 STONY POINT, taken by Gen. Wayne, 
 278. 
 
 STORM, Capt., genteel tavern, 269. 
 
 STORY, Mr., of Boston, 214. 
 
 STUART, Gilbert, the painter, portrait 
 in Rhode Island Hall, 397. 
 
 STRATFORD, Ct., 284. 
 
 STRAWBERRIES, price of, 141. 
 
 STRONG, Nathan, of Hartford, brief 
 sketch of, 267; references to, 286, 438. 
 
 SULLIVAN, Gen., 98, 259. 
 
 SUMNER, James, 230. 
 
 SUTTON, David, educated at Hopewell 
 Academy, 42. 
 
 SUTTON, John, educated at Hopewell 
 Academy, 42; accompanies Manning 
 on his first visit to Newport in 1763, 
 45; settled in Kentucky, 437. 
 
 SWEET, Daniel, 154. 
 
 SYMONDS, Joshua, of Bedford, Eng 
 land, 190, 218. 
 
 TAXATION, dispute relating to, 232. 
 TAXES of Rhode Island enormous, 265; 
 
 burden of unfavorable to the College, 
 
 308. 
 TALBOT, James, educated at Hopewell 
 
 Academy, 42. 
 
 TALLMADGE, Col., of New York, daugh 
 ter married to Stephen Gauo, 366. 
 TANNER, John, present at meeting to 
 
 determine location of the College, 
 
 110. 
 
 TAUNTON ACADEMY, 448. 
 TENNENT, Gilbert, means of Benjamin 
 
 Miller s conversion, 27. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 TENNENT, William MacKay,brief sketch 
 
 of, 283; Manning visits, 284. 
 TEST LAWS in England, 429. 
 TEW, Paul, 2G6. 
 
 TEXT-BOOKS in College in 1783, 305; 
 of the early schools in Providence, 
 417. 
 
 THATCHER S Lives of Eminent Physi 
 cians, 242. 
 
 THIVELL, Capt, 337. 
 THOCKMORTON, John, 146. 
 THOMAS, David, educated at Hopewell 
 Academy, 42; receives honorary de 
 gree, 89. 
 
 THOMAS, Mr., of London, finds first 
 volume of Backus used as waste pa 
 per, 376. 
 
 THOMPSON, Ebenezer, appointed on 
 committee to draft petition to Con 
 gress, 290. 
 
 THOMPSON, Charles, educated at Hope- 
 well Academy, 42; aided by Philadel 
 phia Association, 56 ; valedictorian of 
 the first graduating class, 89; minis 
 try at Warren, 197; biographical 
 sketch, 103, 104. 
 THOMPSON, Mr., Manning preaches at 
 
 his house, 265. 
 THORNTON, Mr., 244, 247. 
 THORNTON S Pulpit of the American 
 
 Involution, cited, 255, 387. 
 THURSTON, Gardner, present at first 
 meeting of Corporation, 64; intimate 
 friend of Dr. Stiles, 66 ; on committee 
 to wait upon Manning, 112; assists in 
 organization of Warren church, 68; 
 baptizes William Rogers, 92 ; present 
 at meeting to determine location of 
 College, 110; church at Providence 
 advises with, 179; revival at Newport 
 under his preaching, 294. 
 THURSTON, Edward, Jr., present at 
 first meeting of Corporation, 64; at 
 meeting to determine location of Col 
 lege, 110. 
 
 THURBER, Edward, on advisory com 
 mittee, etc., for building meeting 
 house, 227, 228. 
 
 THUUBER, Benj., on advisory commit 
 tee, etc., for building meeting-house, 
 227, 228. 
 
 THURBER, Benjamin, of Pomfret, Man 
 ning preaches at his house, 266. 
 THURBEU, James, Manning preaches at 
 
 his house, 2G8. 
 THURBER, Samuel, letter to Judge 
 
 Staples on education, cited, 417. 
 THURLOW S State Papers read by Gov. 
 
 Hopkins, 368. 
 
 TILLINGHAST, Daniel, on advisory 
 committe, etc., for building meeting 
 house, 227, 228. 
 TILLINGHAST, Capt. Joseph, actor in 
 
 affair of Gaspee, 172. 
 TILLINGHAST, Nicholas, present at first 
 
 meeting of Corporation, 64. 
 TILLINGHAST, John, first Treasurer of 
 
 the Corporation, 63. 
 TILLINGHAST, Pardon, pastor of Bap 
 tist church, Providence, 153, 226; said 
 to have been soldier under Cromwell, 
 155; built first meeting-house of the 
 church at his own expense, 155. 
 TILLINGHAST, Thomas, associate justice, 
 
 99. 
 TILLGINHAST, Colonel of Artillery, 
 
 412. 
 TINGLEY, Mrs., of Elizabeth, sister of 
 
 Manning, 271, 272, 280. 
 TIRRILL, William, baptized, 122. 
 TOLERANCE, practised by early settlers 
 
 of Rhode Island. 46. 
 TOLERATION more prevalent, 295, 362. 
 TOPLADY, Augustus M., worthy of 
 College honors, 189, 204; first divine 
 of the established church, 202; author 
 of " Rock of Ages cleft for me," 204; 
 Treatise on Predestination, 221 ; liter 
 ary character of Dr. Gill, 371; Ky- 
 land s sketch of, 202, 203. 
 TORIES in Boston and vicinity, 139; 
 New York and New Jersey, 268, 270, 
 272; Morgan Edwards ranked with, 
 45; "Tories and rogues grow rich," 
 275. 
 TOULMIN, Joshua, receives honorary 
 
 degree, 89. 
 
 TOWN HOUSE of Providence, 115. 
 TRADE, embarrassments of, in New 
 
 England, 356. 
 
 TRANSIT STREET, named in commemo 
 ration of transit of Venus, 165. 
 
520 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 TRAVELLING facilities in days of Man 
 ning, 237, 263-286. 
 
 TREAT, J., tutor in College of New 
 Jersey, 27. 
 
 TREVETT against Wceden, care of, 98, 
 399. 
 
 TRINITARIANISM. See ANTI-TRINITA- j 
 RIANISM. 
 
 TROTTER, Dr., of London, 189. 
 
 TRYON, (Jov. William, invasion of Con 
 necticut, 277, 283. 
 
 TURNER, Daniel, honorary degree con 
 ferred on, 128. 
 
 TURNER, Mr., Manning drinks choco 
 late with, 279. 
 
 TUTTLE, Moses, 281. 
 
 UNCONVERTED men not to preach, 427. 
 
 UNION in Christ should produce love 
 towards one another, 328. 
 
 UNION COLLEGE, Maxcy elected Presi 
 dent, 402. 
 
 UNITARIAN views advocated by Dr. 
 Priestley, 415. 
 
 UNITARIANISM, or Anti-Trinitarian- 
 ism, 212, 213. 
 
 UNIVERSAL HISTORY, the great collec 
 tion of, read by (Jov. Hopkins, 368. 
 
 UNIVERSAL RESTORATION, doctrine 
 propagated by Winchester, 333, 334. 
 
 UNIVERSAL SALVATION, doctrine prop 
 agated by Murray, 294; "licked into 
 various forms," 312; many proselytes 
 among Congregationalists, made by 
 Dr. Chauncy s book, 385. 
 
 UNIVERSALISTS and Armenians, 328. 
 
 UNIVERSITY HALL. See COLLEGE. 
 
 UNIVERSITY GRAMMAR SCHOOL, 67. 
 See LATIN SCHOOL. 
 
 UNIVERSITY OP PENNSYLVANIA, estab 
 lished and controlled by Episcopa 
 lians, 38; Dr. Rogers Professor in, 
 93; confers upon Manning the hon 
 orary degree of Doctor in Divinity, 
 350. 
 
 UPDIKE S History of Narragansett 
 Church, cited, 93. 
 
 UPHAM, Edward, and J. Condy, the 
 only Baptist ministers in New Eng 
 land liberally educated, 71; graduate 
 of Harvard, 66; present at first meet 
 
 ing of Corporation, 64; at meeting to 
 determine location of College, 112; 
 receives honorary degree, 89. 
 
 USEFUL knowledge, surest agency to 
 secure rights, prosperity, and liberty, 
 418. 
 
 USEFULNESS the wish of every good 
 man, 405. 
 
 USHER, Archbishop, " first fruits " of 
 Trinity College, 91. 
 
 USTICK, Thomas, aided by Philadelphia 
 Association, 57; graduates in class of 
 1771, 194; succeeds Dr. Rogers as pas 
 tor of Baptist Church in Philadel 
 phia, 194; instrumental in obtaining 
 Manning s honorary degree from Uni 
 versity of Pennsylvania, 350; referen 
 ces to, 9, 261, 354, 357, 367. See LET 
 TERS. 
 
 VACCINATION, introduced by Dr. Wa- 
 
 terhotise, 300. 
 
 VALEDICTORY oration of Thompson, 
 manuscript preserved in College Li 
 brary, 104; of Binney, published, 
 233. 
 
 VANDERLIGHT, David, German physi 
 cian, married Mary Brown, 156. 
 
 VAN HORN, William, brief sketch, 273; 
 appointed to solicit benefactions for 
 the College, 299; obtains donations, 
 3 J6. 
 
 VANKIRK, Dr. Manning preaches for, 
 272 
 
 VARNUM, James Mitchell, member of 
 first graduating class, 88; writes to 
 Manning at Philadelphia, 279; bio 
 graphical sketch, 96-102. 
 
 VAVASOR, Josiah, daughter married 
 to Stephen Gano, 366. 
 
 VENUS, account of Transit of, 164, 165. 
 
 VERME, Count dal, of Milan, present 
 at Commencement in 1783, 298; anec 
 dote of, 300. 
 
 VIRGINIA, revivals in, 182, 205, 405. 
 
 WADSWORTH, General, 285. 
 
 WAKKMAN, ESQUIRE, 283. 
 
 WALDO, Rev. Mr., Manning preaches 
 
 for, 269. 
 WALLIN, Benjamin, of London, lion- 
 
INDEX. 
 
 521 
 
 orary degree conferred on, 128; Man 
 ning opens correspondence with, 210; 
 account of himself, 211-213; referen 
 ces to, 250, 293, 311, 345; makes be 
 quest to the College, 307; character 
 and works, 210. See LETTERS. 
 
 WALTON, Rev. Mr., 153. 
 
 WALTON S Biblia Sacra Polyglotta, 
 presented to College Library, 370. 
 
 WANTON, Edward, 154. 
 
 WANTON, John G., present at first 
 meeting of Corporation, and meet 
 ing to determine location of College, 
 64, 110. 
 
 WANTON, Joseph, present at first meet 
 ing of Corporation, 63; Governor, 
 64, 171; suspended for disloyalty, 65. 
 
 WANTON, Joseph, Jun., honorary de 
 gree conferred on, 89; present at 
 meeting to determine location of Col 
 lege, 110. 
 
 WAR of the Revolution, effects of in 
 Warren, 103; Smith s letters in rela 
 tion to, 139-142; vivid idea of, 244; 
 sad effects of, 251; unfavorable to 
 revivals, 247; effects of in Providence, 
 293; throughout the land, 311-317; 
 counterbalanced in part by preva 
 lence of religious toleration, 328. 
 
 WARD, Henry, present at meeting to 
 determine location of College, 110; 
 refere*ces to, 288, 290, 292. 
 
 WARD, Samuel, Governor of Rhode 
 Island, present at first meeting of 
 Corporation, 63, 66; at meeting to 
 determine location of the College, 
 110; delegate to Congress, 237. 
 
 WARD, Richard, son of preceding, mar 
 ried daughter of Joseph Brown, 164. 
 
 WARD, Samuel, son of Governor, grad 
 uate in class of 1771, 193; attains to 
 rank of Lieut. Col. in the army, 194. 
 
 WARD S Oratory, text-book in College, 
 305. 
 
 WARNER, John, original owner of part 
 of College lot, 116, 146. 
 
 WARNER, John, present at meeting to 
 determine location of College, 110. 
 
 WARNER, Capt., 285. 
 
 WARREN, selected for first location of 
 College, 67. 68; action respecting per- 
 
 44* 
 
 manent location, 108; ravages of Eng 
 lish troops, 103. 
 
 WARREN ASSOCIATION, originated by 
 Manning to resist acts of oppression 
 on part of" Standing Order," and to 
 aid College, 72; formation and early 
 history, 72-84; first meeting at War 
 ren, 74; sentiments and plan, 78-80; 
 minutes,82; efforts to aid College,57,58, 
 291, 31(3,321 ; circular letters for, 1769, 
 1770, 1783, and 1791, 83, 185, 320. 458; 
 agent sent to Philadelphia to endeav 
 or to obtain through Congress equal 
 rights, 233; meeting at Providence in 
 1780, 290; meeting at Charlton in 1783, 
 300; meeting in 1784, determined to 
 resist oppressive acts and measures of 
 "Standing Order," 330; Winchester 
 excluded from fellowship of, 335; 
 formation of Education Society, 316. 
 See LETTERS. 
 
 WARREN BAPTIST CHURCH. See BAP 
 TIST. 
 
 WARWICK, R. I., and Massachusetts, 
 146-152. 
 
 WARWICK, N.Y., 269,270. 
 
 WASHINGTON, George, and Dr. Rog 
 ers, 94; and Thomas Mullett, 311; tes 
 timony in favor of the Baptists, 136; 
 on speculators and monopolizers,275; 
 Manning introduced to at West Point, 
 282; visits the College in 1790, 433; re 
 ply to Manning s address, 435; de 
 gree of L.L.D,, conferred on, 336; 
 references to, 137, 271. 
 
 WATERHOUSE, Benjamin, description of 
 Newport, 113; anecdote and " trying 
 experiences" of Manning, 842, 404; 
 appointed Fellow, 298, 299; chosen 
 Professor in College,330,332 ; biograph 
 ical sketch, 299, 300. See LETTERS. 
 
 WATKINS, Mr., of Philadelphia, 274. 
 
 WATKINS AND SMITH, London, 166. 
 
 WATSON, Elkanah, apprentice to John 
 Brown, 166; Memoirs of, cited 97, 167. 
 
 WATTS S Hymns and Psalms, 325. 
 
 WATTS and Duncan s Logic, text-book 
 in College, 305. 
 
 WAYLAND, Francis, pastor of First 
 Baptist Church, Boston, 135; state 
 ment respecting Chad Brown cor- 
 
522 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 rected, 144; introduced the "Presi 
 dent s Levee," at Commencement of 
 administration in College, 90; occu 
 pied for a time the old College Man 
 sion, 296; Discourse on Life and 
 character of Hon. Nicholas Brown, 
 cited, 395 ; full-length portrait in 
 Rhode Island Hull, and marble bust 
 in College Library, 396. 
 
 WAYNE, General, takes Stony Point, 
 278. 
 
 WEALTH, reasonable object of, 418. 
 
 WEATHER, remarkably cold, in 1785, 
 351. 
 
 WEATHERSFIELD, Ct., raises vast quan 
 tities of onions, 285. 
 
 WEBB, Col., Manning dines with at 
 West Point, 282. 
 
 WEEDEN, John, of Newport, 99. 
 
 WELCH, Mr., 2S6. 
 
 WELSH, books bequeathed to College, 
 447. 
 
 WELSH versions of the Bible, 194. 
 
 WESTCOT, Mr., of Philadelphia, 274,277. 
 
 WEST, Benjamin, the painter ,8ubcribei 
 to early funds of College, 91. 
 
 WEST, Dr. Benjamin, taught private 
 school in Providence, 417; account of 
 transit of Venus, 164, 165; honorary 
 degree conferred upon, 128. 
 
 WEST POINT, description of, 282, 283. 
 
 WESLEY, John, 221, 441. 
 
 WHEATON, Capt., 68. 
 
 WHEATON, llcv. Ephraim, of Swanzey, 
 and Thos. Hollis, 40, 41. 
 
 WHEATON, Ephraim, and Nathauiel,on 
 committee for building Baptist meet 
 ing-house, 227, 228. 
 
 WHEATON, Dr. Levi, admitted to de 
 gree of A.B., in 1782, 289. 
 
 WHEATON, Hon. Henry, portrait in 
 Rhode Island Hall, 396. 
 
 WHEELOCK, Dr. .Presidentof Dartmouth 
 College, 184, 299. 
 
 WHIPPLE, Abraham, actor in affair of 
 Gaspee, 171; the daring Commodore, 
 portrait in Rhode Island Hall, 396. 
 
 WHIPPLE HALL, 419. 
 
 WHITAKER and Oakam, 184. 
 WHITEFIELD, preaching of, 130. 
 WHITMAN, Thomas, 81. 
 
 WHITMARSH, Major, 97. 
 WHITTIER, Jacob, represents Haverhill 
 church at first meeting of Warren 
 Association, 75. 
 
 WICKENDEN, William, minister of 
 Baptist church, Providence, 148. 
 
 WILLIAM AND MARY S COLLEGE, 
 founded and controlled by Episco 
 palian?, 38. 
 
 WILKINSON William, graduate in class 
 
 of 1783, grammar master and College 
 
 Librarian, 336; " eminent classical 
 
 and mathematical teacher in town," 
 
 413. 
 
 WILKINSON, Jemima, and her adhe 
 rents, 312. 
 
 WILLIAMS, Roger, 59, 178, 444, 446; and 
 Chad Brown, 143-150; not the first 
 pastor of the Baptist church, 150. 
 
 WILLIAMS, William, educated at Hope- 
 well Academy, 42; member of first 
 graduating class, 88; Trustee of 
 Baptist Education Fund, 316; preach 
 es on trial, 201; biographical sketch, 
 104-6. 
 
 WILLIAMS, Gov. David R., pupil of 
 preceding, 105. 
 
 WILLIAMS, Robert, original owner of 
 part of College lot, 116. 
 
 WILLIAMS, Joseph, Jr., 154. 
 
 WILLIAMS, David, honorary degree 
 conferred on, 128. 
 
 WILLIAMS, Henry, merchant of New 
 York, 121. 
 
 WLLLIAMS, Prof., account of " Dark 
 Day," cited, 260. 
 
 WILLIAMS, Sidney, married second 
 daughter of President Mcsser, 410. 
 
 WILLIAMS, Rev. Mr., of Durham, 285. 
 
 WILLIAMS, Mr., and Booth, 428. 
 
 WILTON, Samuel, worthy of College 
 honors, 190. 
 
 WILSON, Rev. Mr., of Bordentown, 
 328, 336, 412. 
 
 WILSON S Sermons, presented to Li 
 brary, 212, 221, 223. 
 
 WILSON S Navigation, text-book in 
 College, 305. 
 
 WINCHELL, James, pastor of first Bap 
 tist church, Boston, 135. 
 
 WINCHESTER, Elhanan, 92; sketch of, 
 
INDEX. 
 
 523 
 
 with account of his relations with 
 Baptist church, Philadelphia, 332- 
 335; instrumental in revivals in New 
 England, 324; apostasy, 327; "pre 
 eminent in virtue, "402; "influential 
 days at an end unless he goes right 
 about, " 1 424; Booth s portrait of " ex 
 actly to the life," 428; loses ground 
 fast, 431, 439. 
 
 WINSLOW, Sam 1 ! and wife,baptized,122. 
 
 WrsrsoR, Joshua, 154. 
 
 WINSOR, Samuel, early pastor of Bap 
 tist church, 153, 154. 
 
 WINSOR, Samuel, son of preceding, 
 present at lirst meeting of Corpora 
 tion, 64; at meeting to determine final 
 location of College, 110; committee 
 to wait on Manning, 112; Winsor, 
 Manning, and Baptist church, 178,179. 
 
 WINSOR, Col. Abraham, 266. 
 
 WINTHROP S New England, cited, 143, 
 144. 
 
 WINTHROP S account of transit of Ve 
 nus, cited, 165. 
 
 WISTNER S Works, presented to Libra 
 ry, 352. 
 
 WITIIERSPOON, Dr., President of Col 
 lege of New Jersey, 28. 
 
 WOOD, Rev. Mr., of Ware, 337, 416. 
 
 WOODBRIDGE, Dr., " first fruits " of 
 Harvard University, 91. 
 
 WOODBRIDGE, Ct, desolations of, 280. 
 
 WOODRUFF, Joseph of Farmiugton, 267. 
 
 WOODRUFF, Mrs., of Eli/abethtown, 
 sister of Manning, 271, 272, 281. 
 
 WOODMAN, Isaac, honorary degree 
 conferred upon, 128; writes to Man 
 ning declining, 206; prince in spirit 
 and conduct, 203. See LETTERS. 
 
 WORTH, William, educated at Hope- 
 well Academy, 42. 
 
 WRENTHAM ACADEMY, taught by Wil 
 liams, 105. 
 
 YALE COLLEGE, founded and controlled 
 by Cougregationalists, 38; funds in 
 creased by lotteries, 197; fortunate in 
 attracting the attention of a Yale, 
 319 ; donation to from King of France, 
 298. 
 
 YEARLY MEETING of Baptists, 73. 
 
 YELLOW FEVER at Philadelphia, 94. 
 
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