ADDRESS 
 
 TO THE 
 
 jpyf e*9«i of M$ JI®fow 
 
 IN BEHALF OF THE 
 
 AMERICAN EDUCATION 
 SOCIETY. 
 
 PRINTED BY FLAGG AND GOULD. 
 
 1825.
 
 v &Y
 
 
 JL he Directors of the American Education Society 
 have been engaged for several years past, in applying the charity 
 of the christian public, for the promotion of the great object pro- 
 posed in the formation of this charitable institution. 
 
 This Society is but the medium, through which public benef- 
 icence reaches and effects its object ; it is merely the almoner of 
 public bounty. It is therefore manifest, that while, on the one 
 hand, the Directors look with the deepest interest, to the effects 
 of their labours ; they must, on the other hand, look with no less 
 interest, to the friends of religion in the community, for those sup- 
 plies which their operations continually demand. For, it ought 
 to be distinctly understood and remembered by all, that the ob- 
 jects of this Society are no local or private concern. Its benefits 
 do not rest upon its members, or its Directors. They individual- 
 ^ ly incur sacrifices, and make efforts, in attending to its concerns, 
 and watching over its interests ; for which they expect no earthly 
 remuneration. It is the honour of Christ, in the advancement 
 ^ and prosperity of his Church, which stand s< forth as the object of 
 X- our labours and charities in this unde rotmn i d ing. 
 
 The Directors therefore, do not appear before the public to 
 ^ ask alms for themselves, or for the promotion of any private in- 
 ro terest ; but they present the Education Society to public atten- 
 ^ tion, as an association, duly organized and prepared to receive 
 ( the fruits of christian charity, and appropriate them to purposes, 
 in which every friend of Christ must feel an interest. It is the 
 cause of every minister, of every church, and of every sincere 
 friend of Christ, which we plead. The object in view, can never 
 £ be accomplished by individual exertion. It requires the vigorous 
 cooperation of the friends of the Redeemer. Therefore, chris- 
 
 r*
 
 tian brethren, we ask you to unite with us in furnishing ministers, 
 for the destitute churches and congregations in our country ; and 
 in preparing messengers, who may go forth and declare the un- 
 searchable riches of Christ, in the destitute regions of our world. 
 
 But, while this Society offers itself as the channel, through 
 which christian charity may flow and take effect ; it seems pro- 
 per, that the public should be made acquainted with the result of 
 its past labours ; that they should understand its methods of pro- 
 ceeding ; and that they should take a fair view of the importance 
 of its object. For, in this way only can they be enabled to judge, 
 how far it merits confidence, and affords encouragement for in- 
 creasing support. — To these points then, the attention of all the 
 friends of the Saviour, and of man, is respectfully solicited. 
 
 From a statement published by the officers of the Society, 
 soon after its institution, it appears that, " during the summer of 
 1815, a few individuals in Boston, becoming deeply impressed 
 by the necessity of greater efforts than had heretofore been made, 
 to increase the number of pious and learned ministers ; invited 
 a number of clergymen from neighbouring towns to meet with 
 them for consultation. At this meeting which was held the last 
 week in July, and opened with prayer, a more full exhibition of 
 the deficiency of qualified christian teachers in our land, clothed 
 the subject with a solemn interest ; and impressed on every one 
 present a strong conviction, that ail good men are called to unite 
 in immediate and vigorous efforts to provide a remedy. Under 
 this impression it was «otod to be expedient, that a Society be 
 formed for the purpose of aiding indigent young men of talents 
 and hopeful piety, in acquiring a competent education for the Gos- 
 pel ministry ; and a committee of six clergymen and four laymen, 
 was appointed to frame a constitution to be reported at a future 
 meeting."* 
 
 At this subsequent meeting, which was holden at Boston, 
 August 29, 1815, and attended by about fifty gentlemen, the con- 
 stitution was reported, and after deliberate discussion, article by 
 
 * See Appendix to Dr. Worcester's Sermon delivered October, 1816.
 
 article, was unanimously adopted. The Act of Incorporation is 
 dated December 4, 1S16. 
 
 From these facts it appears that this Society has existed, as 
 legally constituted, but about nine years. Consequently, the pub- 
 lic will not expect that it can yet number among its beneficiaries 
 many, who have come forward upon the stage of public action. 
 Excepting a limited number of the early objects of its patron- 
 age, who were somewhat advanced in their studies when that 
 patronage commenced ; the beneficiaries have not had time to 
 finish their prescribed literary and theological course, preparato- 
 ry to active service. Still, in the catalogue of ordained ministers, 
 who have pastoral charges, or who are labouring as evangelists ; 
 in the bands of Missionaries, who have gone forth to preach the 
 Gospel in the regions of moral darkness ; and among the Agents, 
 who are employed in promoting the interests of various charitable 
 institutions ; we already see the names of some, who are enrolled 
 on the records of the American Education Society as her sons, 
 and who have been raised by her instrumentality, to a sphere of 
 active and extensive usefulness. A larger number still, have just 
 completed their collegiate course, and are now engaged in the 
 instruction of Academies, or, are pursuing professional studies in 
 our Theological Seminaries. But the greatest number is still 
 found in the first and second stages of their education, attached to 
 Academies and Colleges in different parts of our country. 
 
 The whole number of young men who have received assist- 
 ance from this Society since its first establishment, is 527. — Of 
 these 13 are ordained Ministers, 10 are Missionaries, or in the 
 employ of charitable Societies, and 1 1 are licensed Candidates 
 for the ministry ; making the whole number of those who preach 
 the Gospel in one way or another, 33. Two hundred are now 
 members of Colleges, and forty two are members of Academies 
 preparing for College. The remaining number, so far as their 
 present situation can be ascertained, is composed of those, who 
 have just graduated, and are employed as instructors of our youth, 
 or are pursuing professional studies. In this calculation however, 
 we must make allowance for a small number, who, from the fail-
 
 ure of health and consequent discouragement, or from other caus- 
 es, have been led to relinquish the object of pursuit. 
 
 So much has been done. And when we take into the ac- 
 count the time during which the Society has been in operation, 
 and the means which it has had at its disposal ; it must be ac- 
 knowledged, that this result has exceeded the most sanguine ex- 
 pectations of its friends. It is to be remembered however, that a 
 few years to come will, by the blessing of God, exhibit much 
 greater visible effects of these labours, because a large number, 
 who have passed almost through the preparatory stages of study ; 
 but are still in a great measure hid from public observation, will 
 shortly some forward into the field of active service. When we 
 consider the number of those who have just completed their ed- 
 ucation, and of those who are now drawing near its completion, 
 for whom the greater part of the necessary expense has been al- 
 ready incurred ; we may say, without boasting, much has been 
 done already. And what is still more important is, that the ex- 
 periment has fully demonstrated, that much more may be done. 
 The practicability of furnishing a competent supply of christian 
 teachers for our widely extended frontier and its growing popula- 
 tion, is no longer questionable. All that is wanting is, the united 
 persevering support of the friends of religion in our land. Indeed, 
 it is entirely practicable for the American churches to furnish, and 
 that promptly, their proportion of ministers and missionaries, for 
 the evangelizing of the world. 
 
 The attention of the christian public will now be invited to a 
 view of the method of proceeding, which the Directors have 
 adopted in the prosecution of this design. 
 
 In the first place. It is the settled purpose of the Directors, 
 to patronize none but young men who are really indigent, who 
 are hopefully pious, and who possess promising talents. To these 
 limits the constitution of the Society restricts every measure. 
 And every precaution which could be devised, has been adopted, 
 to prevent failure or imposition, in the execution of this part of 
 the undertaking. That this may appear to the satisfaction of 
 every candid mind, let us look for a moment at the standing
 
 rules of the Directors, respecting the reception and management 
 of their beneficiaries. 
 
 The following is one of these rules, viz. " On the day 
 
 preceding the quarterly meetings of the Directors, every candi- 
 date for the charity of this Society, in whatever stage of his edu- 
 cation, shall, unless otherwise specially directed, be examined at 
 Boston, by a committee of the Board, as to the evidences of his 
 personal piety, and his motives in wishing to engage in the min- 
 istry, as well as, to his talents and literary attainments. At the 
 same time he must exhibit unequivocal testimonials, from three or 
 more respectable persons best acquainted with him, and his cir- 
 cumstances, (for example his minister, instructor, and a magistrate 
 or some other principal man in the vicinity,) stating his age, place 
 of residence, indigence, moral and religious character, talents, 
 learning, and serious desire to devote his life to the Gospel min- 
 istry. If his examination and testimonials are satisfactory, he 
 may be placed on the foundation for such assistance as the Direc- 
 tors shall judge expedient ; and upon trial for three months, at 
 the close of which period he shall exhibit from his instructor or in- 
 structors, sufficient evidence that in point of genius, diligence, lit- 
 erary progress, and piety, he is a proper candidate to recievethis 
 sacred charity. — Provided however, that except in extraordinary 
 cases, no candidate shall be thus received, who is not fifteen years 
 of age, and who has not studied the languages under an instructor 
 at least three months." 
 
 The examination of candidates for this charity who live more 
 than one hundred miles from Boston, is provided for by the ap- 
 pointment of a committee in some contiguous college, which com- 
 mittee certifies to the Directors its satisfaction. 
 
 Concerning the foregoing rule it is to be remarked, that every 
 applicant for this charity is required to produce the testimony of at 
 least three substantial witnesses, who must be supposed to be well 
 acquainted with the facts concerning him, and who must be con- 
 sidered as impartial as any that can be found. These witnesses 
 must concur in the testimony that the applicant is indigent, that 
 he sustains the reputation of piety, and that he is promising as
 
 8 
 
 it respects his talents and proficiency. This is the first precau- 
 tionary step. — The second is, that he is carefully examined by a 
 committee appointed by the Directors, as to the evidence of his 
 piety, his motives in wishing to engage in the ministry, and his 
 talents and literary attainments until the committee are satisfied. 
 — The third step is, that he is put upon trial for three months, 
 under some suitable teacher, whose certificate, at the expiration 
 of that period, that he continues to exhibit suitable traits of char- 
 acter for the ministry, is the requisite condition of his receiv- 
 ing further aid ; and the same certificate must be repeated quar- 
 terly for the same purpose. — And a fourth precautionary step 
 against failure in any subsequent stage of education, is the follow- 
 ing rule. "The principal Instructor of all beneficiaries and the 
 committee who examined them, are constituted their joint guar- 
 dians, and are expected to watch with due vigilance over their 
 conduct, to see that they receive a thorough education, to guard 
 them against imprudence in their expenses or in contracting debts, 
 and in general against every thing, which would tend to violate 
 the rules or defeat the object of this institution ; and finally to 
 acquaint the Board seasonably and faithfully, with any thing man- 
 ifestly faulty in their character or conduct. — This part of the sub- 
 ject is closed so far as the rules of the Directors are concerned, 
 by the general rule that " Every beneficiary as a condition of en- 
 joying charity shall, in the whole course of his education, conform 
 exactly to the constitution of the Society, and the rules of the 
 Directors." 
 
 If the persons depended on for information in the recommen- 
 dation, and subsequent instruction of beneficiaries, are faithful to 
 their trust ; it seems that the rules of the Directors leave little room 
 for imposition or failure. It is true, that man, who looketh on 
 the outward appearance, may be deceived, or may misjudge, af- 
 ter all possible precaution. To guard against miscarriage, so far 
 as human prudence can do it, is what the Directors propose ; and 
 more than this, a candid public will not demand. 
 
 Again. It is a settled part of this design, merely to assist 
 young men of the above description in obtaining their education.
 
 The Directors do not expect nor desire to afford them a full sup- 
 port, so as to supersede the necessity of exertion and economy 
 on their own part. It is doubtless best that the beneficiaries 
 should learn to depend principally on their own efforts. The as- 
 sistance which the Directors afford them, is designed to be bare- 
 ly sufficient to help out their own exertions, and keep them from 
 sinking in despondency. To effect this purpose, the quarterly 
 appropriation to the beneficiaries, has been reduced from time 
 to time, as experience has directed ; and one half of the sum now- 
 appropriated, is merely a loan ; which they are obligated to re- 
 fund, when their education is completed. — Though there may be 
 some instances of indiscretion in the use made of these benefac- 
 tions, still it is a known fact ; that in most cases the beneficia- 
 ries, after receiving their allowance from the Society, are under 
 the necessity of making great personal exertions, and of strug- 
 gling with many difficulties and discouragements, to accomplish 
 their object. 
 
 The President of one of the Colleges in New England, in re- 
 ply to the charge, that charity scholars are proud and extrava- 
 gant, speaks in the following terms. 
 
 " There may be now and then an instance, which furnishes 
 some ground for these remarks ; but in general they are by no 
 means wanting in point of economy. — Judge for yourselves. — 
 The American Education Society allow their beneficiaries but six- 
 ty dollars a year.* This will do but little more than clothe them. 
 Most of the young men have no parents to aid them, and no funds 
 of their own. There is then their board, and washing, and fuel, 
 and books, and stationary, and several other items, to be provided 
 for ; even though all their college expenses are given in. — And 
 these exertions they are not backward to make. Eight benefi- 
 ciaries in our College last year, received for school keeping, near 
 three hundred dollars. Could you see all the straits to which 
 these dear youth are reduced, in their struggle to get forward to 
 
 * This was the sum then allowed at most, of the colleges. Now, the al- 
 lowance is seventy two dollars a year, and the same at all the colleges, one 
 half of which is a loan to be refunded. 
 
 2
 
 10 
 
 the service of Christ and his church, could you see all their dis- 
 couragements and their shifts ; I am sure it would touch your 
 heart. Their love to Christ and the souls of men, will not surfer 
 them to go back ; and yet I have seen them go forward, with an 
 eye lifted to heaven, and encountering difficulties which I am 
 sure would make your compassions bleed. Some of them, for 
 the sake of saving thirty or forty cents a week, which they know 
 not how to provide, board themselves in their own rooms, and 
 dress their own food ; which is but scanty fare. Those rooms, 
 which daily witness their prayers for a dying world ; witness also 
 the dry morsel which they consume alone. 1 have sometimes 
 wished that the wealthy christian could look in upon that devoted 
 youth at such a moment ; and I am sure he would think it a lux- 
 ury, to do something to relieve a child of God, sustaining all this, 
 for his love to Christ and the souls of men." 
 
 In addition to the consideration, that the beneficiaries of this 
 Society, from the small allowance which they receive from the 
 funds ; are under the necessity of using all possible economy, to 
 meet unavoidable expenses ; the Directors are disposed to en- 
 courage their engaging in personal labour, to provide for their 
 own wants. The business of teaching school in vacations, or at 
 other seasons, when they can obtain leave of absence from Col- 
 lege ; has been most frequently resorted to, and has probably been 
 found most productive. But, as this practice is some interrup- 
 tion of study, and is attended with hazard to health ; it seems 
 very desirable that some kind of labour should be pursued, which 
 will not interfere with the regular hours of study, at the same 
 time that it affords the necessary exercise for the preservation of 
 health. At one of our Colleges, the indigent students saw and 
 split most of the wood for the whole College ; by which means 
 they earn four or five hundred dollars a year. Some wait in the 
 college hall, and thus save their board. 
 
 The question, whether some system of agriculture might not 
 be adopted, in connexion with the assistance of Education Socie- 
 ties ; which would be productive and highly salutary, has for a 
 considerable time occupied the attention of the Directors: and 
 their views on this subject are expressed in the following vote, viz.
 
 11 
 
 " Voted, That it is the desire and expectation of this Board 
 that their beneficiaries in each stage of their education, should, as 
 far as they have opportunity, employ at least two hours in a day, 
 in productive labor ; with a view both to aid them in defraying 
 the expenses of their education, and to the promotion of vigorous 
 health ; and that their instructors be requested to direct and aid 
 them as to suitable employment." 
 
 To mature a system of agricultural employment, which shall 
 operate successfully, and be applicable to the situation of all the 
 beneficiaries at the different Seminaries, will require much delib- 
 eration. But the subject will be kept in view, and the public 
 may rest assured, that every thing which can be done, with any 
 rational prospect of success, will be done. 
 
 The Directors have also, for the further security of their ben- 
 eficiaries, and their encouragement in pursuit of their great ob- 
 ject ; as well as to gain correct information of their proficiency 
 and character ; come to the resolution, that they shall be visited 
 periodically, by some member of the Board. This measure will 
 afford opportunity for parental advice and admonition, both as it 
 respects conduct and expenses. 
 
 At this visitation also, particular inquiries can be made of their 
 Instructors, and of others acquainted with them, concerning their 
 habits and appearance. By this means the indolent and extrava- 
 gant, should there be any such, and those who are not possessed 
 of the requisite talents, will be discovered and set aside ; while 
 the diligent and promising will be encouraged. Especially, is this 
 visit of a member of the Board designed to promote the spiritual 
 views, and experimental piety, of the beneficiaries. The pursuits 
 of literature and science, in connexion with powerful motives to 
 excite worldly ambition, are found often to be unfavourable to the 
 growth of vital piety. On this account the Directors feel, that 
 special exertions ought to be made, and means used ; to excite in 
 the hearts of their beneficiaries religious affections, and to im- 
 press continually upon them, their obligations to be entirely de- 
 voted to the service of Christ, and the interests of his church. 
 
 But it will be said by some probably that notwithstanding
 
 12 
 
 all these precautions, cases of failure do occur, unworthy persons 
 are patronized, money and labour are thrown away on those who 
 are destitute, either of the disposition or the ability, to do any 
 thing for the cause which they have professedly espoused. 
 
 Now admitting the truth of this, so far as it respects a few 
 solitary cases; and more than this cannot be pretended; are we 
 hence driven to the conclusion, that the cause is bad, and that the 
 whole concern ought to be abandoned? If so, why not abandon 
 every object of human pursuit ? For in what department of hu- 
 man affairs, are we not liable to partial failure and loss ? The 
 husbandman finds in his field, the withered stock and the blighted 
 ear ; sometimes even in the very places, where nourishment and 
 culture have been most liberally applied. But does he on that 
 account conclude, never again to plant or sow his field ? 
 
 While then it is admitted, that some instances of misconduct 
 do occur among those who are patronized by this Society ; the 
 conclusion, that the great body of promising beneficiaries is to be 
 forsaken, by no means follows. The fact admitted, should, as it 
 doubtless will, lead to unremitted caution and care, in those who 
 recommend, and those who examine the candidates for this char- 
 ity ; but it will never lead any sincere friend of the cause, to re- 
 lax his efforts. 
 
 At the same time, there is ample evidence that the friends of 
 this cause have occasion for thankfulness and encouragement, 
 that so many of the youth patronized by this society, do feel 
 their obligations to Christ and his people, and conduct themselves 
 to the satisfaction of their benefactors. 
 
 The President of one of the Colleges in New England, at 
 which there are at" present twenty beneficiaries of this society ; 
 and at which, there has been a considerable number for several 
 years past, thus writes concerning them. " We have been pe- 
 culiarly fortunate in our beneficiaries. Not one of those aided 
 by the American Education Society, has failed in character ; but 
 one I think for want of respectable talents ; and one only to my 
 knowledge, has injured the cause by extravagance." 
 
 The President of another College in New England, to which
 
 13 
 
 the objects of this charity have resorted, says, " This system of 
 charitable education is a great benefit to our Colleges. The col- 
 lecting of these pious youth, and drawing them into contact with 
 the other inmates of our Seminaries ; is bringing a mighty mass of 
 moral influence to bear upon those, who are to wield the future 
 destinies of our country, and manage the sacred interests of the 
 church. It has a benign influence too, upon the order of our 
 Colleges. In short, these precious youth are the salt cast into our 
 literary Fountains. And who has not noticed the increase of 
 spiritual blessings on our Colleges, since these Pensioners of Char- 
 ity began to be received." 
 
 Other testimony of the same kind, and to the same purport, 
 might be adduced were it necessary. 
 
 Indeed, it is believed that there is not a College in our coun- 
 try, to which beneficiaries have resorted for education, which has 
 not furnished abundant testimony to their salutary influence ; and 
 whose officers do not desire an increase of their number. 
 
 In view of such testimony, it is necessary only to inquire, who 
 is most likely to know the real state of facts, in regard to the 
 character and conduct of charity scholars ; — their teacher, who 
 has them under his daily observation ; or the mere casual obser- 
 ver ; or what is still more common, the person who reports what 
 he has heard, he knows not from whom, or on what authority ? 
 And while it is admitted, that there are some examples of indis- 
 cretion and folly among those who are patronized ; must it not in 
 candour be also admitted, that the greater part of what is said of 
 the pride and extravagance of charity scholars as a' body ; is 
 mere vague unfounded rumour ? Are not the impressions made 
 by a few unhappy cases, too liberally applied to all charity schol- 
 ars, without distinction ; and has not the great majority, compos- 
 ed of those who are examples of sobriety, and patient continuance 
 in well doing, been too much overlooked . ? 
 
 But another objection comes forward on different ground ; 
 and that is, that there are already more ministers in our country 
 than can find employment or support; and that to increase their 
 number, will be only to multiply useless hands and disappointed
 
 14 
 
 hearts. This objection may be considered as a declaration of 
 what is now the fact, in regard to the superabundance of ministers 
 in our country ; or a prediction of what it will be, if the work of 
 charitable education goes on. 
 
 In both these points of view then, the objection deserves ex- 
 amination. As to the present state of the case, it will not be deni- 
 ed that there are unemployed ministers in our land ; and it is pro- 
 bable that there are those, who find it difficult to obtain employ- 
 ment or support, even though they desire it. But it is apprehen- 
 ded, that this fact has no bearing at all upon the question, wheth- 
 er our country is supplied with competent religious teachers, 
 neither does it at all affect the question, whether we ought to 
 increase the number of such teachers. 
 
 There is beyond all question, a class of persons having the 
 garb of ministers ; who, through the blind partiality of friends, or 
 the indifference of those who are commanded to " lay hands sud- 
 denly on no man ;" have made their way into this sacred office, 
 without talents or qualifications suitable for it; and who wander 
 about the country, or hover around vacant congregations, seeming 
 to say, "put me, I pray thee, into one of the priest' 's offices, that I 
 may eat a piece of bread." These persons are of course unem- 
 ployed, and would be, were the number of ministers an hun- 
 dred fold less than it is. Their disappointments and complaints, 
 it is believed, afford the principal ground for the objection in view. 
 Such cases, though they afford occasion for regret, that any per- 
 sons should so far mistake their calling, as to place themselves in 
 these circumstances ; afford no ground of objection to the aims 
 of Education Societies. 
 
 It is however not to be supposed, that all unemployed or un- 
 settled ministers are of the above description. Particular causes, 
 may operate to suspend the stated labours of some of the most 
 useful and respectable Ministers. But as a general remark it 
 will doubtless be found true, that those who cannot find employ- 
 ment, are those who do not deserve it. 
 
 A decisive fact in respect to this subject, and one which is de- 
 rived from authentic documents, is, that though the number of
 
 15 
 
 ministers has been greatly increased ; the proportion of unemploy- 
 ed ministers and candidates in New England, is no greater than it 
 was thirty years ago. 
 
 If then, the objector means to be understood, that there are 
 now more competent and properly qualified Ministers in our coun- 
 try, than can find employment or support ; the declaration is most 
 unequivocally denied. Directly the reverse of this, is the fact. 
 There is employment and support too, and not only so, there are 
 pressing calls, for many more religious teachers of this character, 
 than can be found. 
 
 The evidence of this is ample and of the most satisfactory kind. 
 " A man who is at the head of one of our Theological Semi- 
 naries, writing in behalf of himself and his associates in office, re- 
 marks :"* 
 
 " It is a great mistake to suppose, that we have as many min- 
 isters as the population of our country demands, or is willing to 
 support. Educate men of the right stamp, men of good native 
 talent, and of ardent piety ; and educate them well ; and there 
 will be no danger of their wanting employment. Every man of 
 this description is instantly taken up the moment he is ready to 
 enter the field. We have frequent applications for Ministers at 
 our Institution which we cannot satisfy.'''' 
 
 The following remarks are from the professors of another of 
 our Theological Seminaries, exhibiting the result of their experi- 
 ence on the subject. 
 
 " There is no reason to apprehend that the measures of Ed- 
 ucation Societies will produce too many ministers. The ground 
 assumed by some, is not indeed to be admitted as the basis of 
 calculation, namely, that the supply is sufficient when it corres- 
 ponds with the actual demand, from destitute places. This prin- 
 ciple is good in commerce, but not in religion. Had Christ act- 
 ed upon it, one Apostle would have been as good as twelve ; for 
 Corinth, Antioch, and Rome would never have sent for these 
 
 * Several items of testimony on this subject are extracted from the re- 
 ports of the Presbyterian Education Society in the city of New York.
 
 16 
 
 preachers ; and the wide world, at this moment, would have been 
 ignorant of the Gospel. Pagans, and unevangelized parts of Chris- 
 tendom will never have the Gospel till preachers are raised up, 
 who will ' go and preach the Gospel to them.' 
 
 " But there are not preachers enough to supply the actual de- 
 mand. From Missionary Societies, and from vacant places, in 
 near and in distant states, calls are every year made on our Sem- 
 inary for preachers, more than we can meet. In some cases these 
 applications are expressed in terms of urgency that make a sol- 
 emn and tender appeal to our hearts, while it is not in our power 
 to furnish any supply. The truth is, that all the means now in 
 operation by our Education Societies, and Theological Institutions 
 to increase the number of able and devoted ministers of Christ, 
 are very inadequate to the increasing, spiritual necessities of our 
 own country. And still more do these need to be augmented, to 
 keep pace with the spirit of the age, in sending the Gospel to the 
 heathen." 
 
 Here then we have the fact fully substantiated, that there are 
 frequent applications for preachers, which cannot be answered 
 for want of men. For who can be supposed to be better acquaint- 
 ed with the state of facts on this subject, than Theological Teach- 
 ers ? If there are unemployed ministers, of suitable character to 
 be recommended, the Professors in our Theological Seminaries 
 must be acquainted with them. 
 
 But let us look for a moment at some other sources of evi- 
 dence on this point. 
 
 The Prudential Committee of the American Board of Com- 
 missioners for Foreign Missions, in a late report, speaking of the 
 employment of Agents in their service say : " But such is the 
 demand for the labours of licensed preachers, that only the two 
 persons whose names have been mentioned as new missionaries, 
 could be obtained as Agents through the year." And it is fur- 
 ther verbally stated by a member of the Prudential Committee, 
 that they have experienced the greatest difficulty in finding men, 
 at liberty to engage in this service ; and that after every effort, they 
 have been unable to procure as many as were desirable ; and in
 
 17 
 
 many instances not half the number they wished. The question 
 then occurs, where are the unemployed ministers in our country, 
 who cannot find support ? If they are of suitable character and 
 qualifications to be employed, why are they not to be found, 
 when all this demand exists? 
 
 Perhaps it will be said, they are in our new settlements, en- 
 deavouring to find employment and support there. Let us then 
 hear the report of the case, as it appears to those living in our 
 frontier settlements, and well acquainted with their circumstances. 
 The President of one of our western Colleges writes as fol- 
 lows. " As to the paralyzing suggestions that too many are on 
 the education list, I am surprised that any christian with the general 
 means of information, can be so unacquainted with the extent of 
 our vast moral desert, teeming with ignorance of the plan of sal- 
 vation, with error in doctrine, and with vice of frightful mien. 
 So far from encouraging too many to become labourers in the 
 vineyard, our Education Societies should exert every faculty they 
 possess, till where there is now one, there shall be at least ten 
 young men, of hopeful piety and talents, ardently engaged in 
 preparing for the most important object upon earth." 
 
 A writer in the Boston Recorder & Telegraph of Nov. 1825, 
 speaking of Michigan Territory observes ; — " Until the present 
 summer I believe, no ordained Protestant Minister has been lo- 
 cated in any part of this Territory. This Territory is fast filling 
 up with settlers from New York and the Eastern States. Several 
 thousand actual settlers have come in during the present season ; 
 and there is promise of a still greater number the next year. Is 
 there no Missionary Society, are there no friends of Zion who 
 will encourage us to hope, that we also are remembered in their 
 prayers, and that, while the sons of New England sit down among 
 us, and hope to gain worldly riches, in the bosom of this fertile 
 country ; we may also hear the glad tidings of salvation, under our 
 own vine and fig-tree with none to make us afraid. If our wishes 
 can be realized, then shall we and our children rejoice with you, 
 then shall the wilderness blossom as the rose, and the desert 
 places be made glad." 
 3 

 
 18 
 
 \ Missionary labouring in the same Territory observes : — 
 " The Lord's people are desirous that the same means should be 
 continued, and also that more Missionaries of the Cross should be 
 sent over to help them. None, but those residing in this desti- 
 tute region, can be adequately sensible of the need there is, that 
 more heralds of salvation should be sent to this part of the Lord's 
 heritage. Here in the wilderness, where eighteen months ago 
 no civilized man resided, the standard of the Cross is now erect- 
 ed, here are excellent ones, who love to meet and pray and sing 
 and learn the way of truth." 
 
 A writer, in the above mentioned Paper, says respecting the 
 new settlements with which he is conversant, — " In these climes 
 are a people not only willing, but waiting to hear the Gospel. 
 They once heard it with delight, and those days, though far gone 
 by, are not forgotten. They love the faithful Minister, and would 
 gladly contribute to his support, but candidates cannot be found." 
 
 From the reports made to the General Assembly of the Pres- 
 byterian Church in the United States, it appears that the number 
 of vacant Churches and Congregations within their limits, and in 
 their denomination alone, was in 1819 — 400; and in 1823 it had 
 increased to 769 ; making an increase of 369 in four years. 
 These vacancies must have been chiefly occasioned, by the for- 
 mation of new congregations and churches in the new settlements 
 of the south and west. And in the most of them, it is but reason- 
 able to suppose, the way is prepared for the settlement and sup- 
 port of ministers if they could be obtained. Thus it appears that 
 instead of a present excess of ministers in our country, there is an 
 actual and great deficiency ; and that hundreds more than can 
 now be found, of suitable qualifications, might find immediate em- 
 ployment and support. 
 
 But the objection under consideration may have a prospective 
 view, and be regarded as giving the alarm, lest the country should 
 by and by, be overrun with a race of mendicant clergy. But 
 whence arises this apprehension ? Will it be said that our popu- 
 lation is stationary as to its increase, or that there are not vast 
 Territories on our western border, stretching to the shores of the
 
 19 
 
 Pacific Ocean ; to be peopled by our descendants ? Will it be 
 said that, while the number of inhabitants doubles every twenty five 
 years, there will be no room for an increasing number of relig- 
 ious teachers ? Surely no one, tolerably acquainted with the state 
 of facts, can deny, that we have every reason to expect an in- 
 creasing demand for labourers of this character. Neither will 
 it be denied, that those parts of our country where this deficien- 
 cy exists, or which are yet to be occupied, will afford abundant 
 means of supporting religious institutions. They are among the 
 most fertile regions in our land, capable of supporting a dense 
 population, and of affording the means of enjoying every religious 
 privilege. 
 
 The objection then must be founded on the apprehension, that 
 the inhabitants in our new settlements, and in those regions of 
 our country which are yet to be occupied, will not be disposed 
 to employ and support preachers of the Gospel. — But what is the 
 testimony of past events on this point ? It is but a few years since 
 the greater part of the states of New York, Vermont, and Ohio 
 were in the same condition, as to religious privileges, with those 
 regions which are now opening still farther west. — And many of 
 us can remember the time, when this very objection was alleged 
 against all attempts to supply these States with religious instruction. 
 The language of objection then was ; it will do no good to send 
 preachers into those new settlements ; the inhabitants never will 
 support the institutions of the Gospel, and will treat all exertions 
 for their benefit, with contempt. — But preachers and missionaries 
 went forth to sow the seed of truth, in what was then a wilder- 
 ness, in a moral as well as in a natural sense. And what has 
 been the effect ? Churches are planted, Ministers are settled and 
 supported, elegant and spacious houses of christian worship are 
 built, large congregations regularly assemble ; the Spirit of God 
 is poured out upon them, extensive revivals and ingatherings are 
 frequent ; and in no part of our country, are the privileges of the 
 Gospel more highly esteemed or honoured. In addition to this, as 
 the effect of ministerial and religious influence, we see flourishing 
 Colleges and Theological Seminaries rising up in those places, to
 
 20 
 
 diffuse the light of science and religion around them. — And here, 
 the objector is requested to pause, and reflect on the present con- 
 dition of the portions of our country above mentioned ; and then 
 to ask himself, what reason he has to conclude, that Indiana, Illi- 
 nois, Missouri, and Michigan, will not be as ready to receive and 
 support christian teachers, or that they will not experience as hap- 
 py effects from their labours as New York, Vermont, and a part 
 of Ohio ? And if there is no such reason, then what ground have 
 we to suppose that preachers of the gospel, in vastly increasing 
 numbers, will not be demanded ? Is it said that we must wait 
 until this demand is actually made, and the way for the support of 
 christian teachers fully prepared, before we take any measures to 
 prepare the supply ? It may be replied, the demand is actually 
 made, and the way for support actually prepared, beyond any 
 means of supply which we have in hand. But rf it were not so, if 
 the field is to be tilled by the christian labourer before it can afford 
 him support, it presents no obstacle or discouragement. What if 
 Paul and his fellow labourers had waited for the fruit, before they 
 sowed the seed of truth, where would have been the churches 
 which they planted, and what would have become of the world ? 
 
 It is surely enough for us to know, that preachers of the Gos- 
 pel will be needed in our country, and that, far beyond any pres- 
 ent means of supply ; and to know, that, according to all past ex- 
 perience, their labours will be productive of support to themselves, 
 as well as of the blessings of the Gospel to others. 
 
 Thus far then, we find no valid objection against the designs 
 of Education Societies. 
 
 It is freely acknowledged however, that there are peculiar 
 difficulties attending the operations of this Society ; difficulties 
 which, though they evince no defect in the system, and present 
 no insurmountable obstacle in the way of ultimate success ; still, 
 need to be understood by the christian public, that this undertak- 
 ing may not be exposed to an undue share of prejudice. 
 
 Some of these difficulties arise from the fact, that the scene 
 of operations is laid in the midst of us, and all the imperfections 
 which attend every system of human efforts, are here, open and
 
 21 
 
 visible to all. The proximity of the scene of action, increases the 
 apparent magnitude of every error, and causes it to remain long- 
 er in view. Difficulties, which attend benevolent enterprises on 
 another continent, or in distant Islands of the Sea, are perhaps 
 never known to the great body of the community at home ; or if 
 known, it is only in a partial degree. Their distance divests them 
 of many alarming aspects, and passing rapidly over the field of 
 vision, they are soon forgotten. 
 
 But if a beneficiary of this Society is betrayed into any impru- 
 dence, it is at once discovered, and a thousand tongues are in 
 motion to give it publicity. If a case of failure or apostacy oc- 
 curs, the nuisance of such an example cannot be removed from 
 public view ; but the apostate lives and acts among us, to grieve 
 the feelings of friends, and strengthen the hands of enemies. 
 
 There is also another cause of embarrassment, which must 
 not be passed over in silence. The objects of this charity are se- 
 lected from neighbourhoods and families, in all parts of the coun- 
 try. By this means, the proceedings of the Society are brought 
 directly in contact with many selfish and envious feelings, and thus 
 become the innocent occasion of much prejudice and opposition. 
 A youth is selected on the ground that he is hopefully pious, and 
 is placed in what many consider a situation ot distinction. He 
 becomes a student, a member of College, and lives apparently at 
 ease ; while his neighbours and their sons, who work hard to ob- 
 tain a living, are called upon to contribute for his support. They 
 imagine that he is becoming a gentleman, and feels proud at their 
 expense ; and therefore resolve that they will give nothing to a 
 system which produces such effects. This evil results, not from 
 any defect in the operations of this Society, but from the mistak- 
 en views and narrow feelings, which inhabit individual bosoms. 
 It is an evil therefore, which the Directors cannot possibly avoid ; 
 unless they could communicate piety to all whom they might, on 
 other accounts, be glad to patronise ; or unless they could enlarge 
 the hearts of individuals, and prepare them to submit to this al- 
 lotment of Providence. — At the same time, it is not to be denied 
 that there are danger, and difficulty, arising from the inHuence of
 
 22 
 
 these charitable operations upon those selected as the objects. 
 The weakness of human nature exposes them to become giddy 
 and vain from this sudden elevation. — For this, as well as for ev- 
 ery other evil propensity of our natures, the grace of God is the 
 only effectual remedy. And we have occasion ardently to pray 
 for these objects of christian charity ; that they may be taught of 
 God by his Spirit, and be thus qualified, in the most important 
 of all senses, for his service. 
 
 The design of this Society and its methods of proceeding, to- 
 gether with a view of the objections and difficulties which attend 
 them, have now been exhibited. It only remains then, that we 
 take a brief view of the importance of this design, and the oppor- 
 tunity which it affords every friend of religion, and of the best in- 
 terests of human society, to communicate extensive good. 
 
 At first sight, this design meets the approbation of every can- 
 did mind. The ministry of the Gospel, we know, is one of the 
 appointed ordinances of God for the temporal and eternal bene- 
 fit of man. Without it, we cannot expect to find the blessings 
 of social order ; or the well grounded hopes of a happy immor- 
 tality, existing in the world. 
 
 To provide then a supply of competent religious teachers, is 
 a design, which must commend itself to every man's judgment 
 and conscience. 
 
 Indeed, it requires but little candid attention to this subject, to 
 convince every mind that something must be done ; something 
 more extensive and efficient than has been done, to provide a sup- 
 ply of qualified christian teachers for our country ; if we would 
 retain the character and blessings of a christian community. 
 
 There are two facts, which bring us unavoidably to this con- 
 clusion. 
 
 In the first place. A very large portion of our country is at 
 this moment destitute of any competent religious instruction. 
 
 The evidence of this fact has already been partially exhibited 
 in reply to an objection, and it has been frequently in different 
 forms presented to the public, in all the detail of arithmetical cal- 
 culation. Nothing more need be said, fully to substantiate the
 
 23 
 
 preceding statement. It may however, not be amiss to subjoin 
 a few simple illustrations of this fact, derived from the most au- 
 thentic sources. 
 
 The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in their 
 report of the state of religion within their limits in 1825, say, — 
 " We would first notice the fearful extent and unanswered calls 
 of our vacant territory in the south and west. A famine, not 
 of bread nor of water, but of the word of life, presses them 
 down to eternal death. As specimens of this wide and melan- 
 choly waste, the population of Missouri and Illinois, amounts to 
 160,000 ; and covers a region of country, 500 miles square. 
 We have within these limits already eighteen churches, and yet, 
 only seven ordained ministers, and one licentiate. In Mississippi 
 and Louisiana are 230,000 inhabitants, scattered over 80,000 
 square miles. The great body of these belong to no church, and 
 enjoy no ministration of the Gospel from any christian denomina- 
 tion. And in all this vast territory we have only eleven ministers 
 of the Gospel established." 
 
 A clergyman from the state of Ohio thus writes ; — " the pres- 
 ent state of our western republic, with regard to its religious insti- 
 tutions and religious character, is certainly deplorable. Take for 
 example the state of Ohio. It contains a population of more than 
 700,000. And all the efficient ministers, of all the christian de- 
 nominations in the state do not exceed 300. There will be then 
 a deficiency (allowing one minister to a thousand souls) of 400 
 ministers of the Gospel in this state ; leaving a destitute popula- 
 tion of 400,000." 
 
 The result of the whole view of the moral desolations of our 
 country, which is presented by authentic documents, is ; that there 
 is at present a deficiency of 6,500 ministers ; after making allow- 
 ance for the existing competent religious teachers of every chris- 
 tian denomination. And this deficiency is by no means confined 
 to the scattered population of recent settlements, it is found in 
 wealthy and populous regions, where churches and congregations 
 already exist. 
 
 The Rev. Dr. Rice, of a Theological Seminary in Virginia
 
 24 
 
 observes ; " I have heard a gentleman, whose word is as good as 
 his oath, say, that in one district in our country, Compact, rich 
 and populous, there were 60,000 people connected with no relig- 
 ious denomination whatever. Another tells us of 180,000, with- 
 out religious teachers ; and another, of a district of 100 miles in 
 extent where there is but one settled minister." 
 
 From recent reports of Ecclesiastical bodies in the United 
 States it appears, that there were within the limits of the Presby- 
 terian church, 769 vacant congregations ; in the Baptist denomina- 
 tion, 1035 vacant churches ; and in the Episcopal church, more 
 than 100. In New Hampshire, according to the latest accounts, 
 there were 100 destitute churches; in Vermont 81 towns, that 
 had no minister of any denomination. These few examples may 
 serve to show the destitute condition of our country as to present 
 religious instruction. 
 
 In the second place. The other fact alluded to is, that the 
 population of our country doubles once in 25 years. — If then, there 
 were at present an adequate supply, and we might rationally cal- 
 culate that this supply would continue ; yet, in twenty five years 
 there would be double the present number of religious teachers 
 needed. In fifty years, the number of teachers remaining merely 
 adequate to the present population, there would be more than 
 30,000,000 of people in this country, destitute of religious instruc- 
 tion. 
 
 But when we take into the account the actual state of the case, 
 when we reflect that there is a present deficiency of 6,500 min- 
 isters, and that the number of ministers, according to past expe- 
 rience, doubles only once in about 60 years, while the population 
 doubles in 25 ; we can easily see the fearful consequences, which 
 a few years to come must disclose. 
 
 Does any one call this an attempt at prediction ; or coldly say. 
 we know not what will be a century hence ? The answer is easy. 
 The common laws of nature teach us the connexion between cause 
 and effect. 
 
 As a natural consequence of the two facts before us, we are 
 presented with the appalling spectacle, of a nation, among the most
 
 25 
 
 populous on the globe, descended from christian ancestry ; and 
 yet, nine tenths of its population destitute of every species of re- 
 ligious instruction. — And who are they that will in all probability, 
 and in a few generations, be thus destitute ? They are our own 
 children, and grandchildren, our kindred according to the flesh ; 
 whose salvation we now consider as far more important than ev- 
 ery earthly interest. And must this state of things be witnessed 
 in our beloved country and among our own descendants ? The 
 answer is, it must, inevitably, and that in a few years, unless 
 something effectual and speedy is done to prevent it. 
 
 Are we not then ready to adopt the conclusion of those, who 
 first met at Boston to deliberate on this subject, — " That all good 
 men are called upon to unite in immediate and vigorous efforts to 
 provide a remedy ?" And shall we not agree with them, in the 
 " expediency of forming a Society for the purpose of aiding indi- 
 gent young men of talents and hopeful piety, in acquiring a com- 
 petent education for the Gospel ministry ?" But if it was expedi- 
 ent to form such a Society, it is expedient and necessary to sup- 
 port it. 
 
 Is it too much to say, that on the success of this Society, are 
 suspended the hopes of our destitute frontier, of our vacant church- 
 es, and of the multitudes of our children, who in future genera- 
 tions shall inhabit the vast regions of the west ? For if this Soci- 
 ety should fail, what other resort is there, what other method can 
 we devise, to provide for the wants of our land, which are already 
 alarming, and are every year rapidly increasing ? 
 
 But, in estimating the importance of this undertaking, we 
 must not confine our view to the wants of our own country. It is 
 not to be forgotten, that our country, is but a small portion of a 
 world that lieth in wickedness ; and that, while six millions in our 
 own land are famishing for want of the bread of life ; this number 
 is increased an hundred fold, when we survey the moral state of 
 the human family. The time we hope is drawing near, when the 
 dark places of the earth will be enlightened. But how is this to 
 be accomplished . ? It must be, through the instrumentality of 
 preachers of the Gospel. But where are these preachers, and 
 4
 
 26 
 
 how are they to be obtained ? We do not expect that God will 
 produce preachers by a miracle, any more than we expect that he 
 will miraculously convert the world without them. 
 
 Bible and Missionary Societies have an important part to act 
 in this great work of spreading the light of truth, but what can 
 i hey do, without agents to accomplish their designs ; and mission- 
 aries to carry the Bible to destitute regions, and to explain its 
 truths ? What in short, can any benevolent institution effect, with- 
 out the instruments, which this Society proposes to raise up and 
 qualify for the work ? The Education Society, may then well 
 claim a chief place among the kindred institutions of the present 
 age. Other societies furnish the means and the matter ; but this 
 furnishes the living Agents, on whose instrumentality the whole 
 work depends for execution. 
 
 Know then, christian brethren, that a Society has been formed 
 for the purposes already stated, that it has been in successful op- 
 eration for several years, that it has a large number of interesting 
 youths now depending on its patronage, and that it needs the fa- 
 vor and support of the friends of religion in the community. And 
 now, in behalf of destitute regions of our country and of the world, 
 in behalf of the cause of Christ, which we all profess to love su- 
 premely ; the appeal is made to every minister of Christ, to every 
 church, to every friend of the best interests of man ; will you not 
 open your hearts to this subject, will you not receive with effec- 
 tive kindness and liberality, this solicitation? Will you not put to 
 this work an helping hand, and consecrate a portion of your treas- 
 ure to an enterprise, so clearly benevolent and so extensively ben- 
 eficial ? 
 
 Truly the harvest is plenteous, but the labourers are few. May 
 the Lord of the harvest, through the liberality of his people, send 
 forth Labourers into his harvest. 
 
 THCrPU UADVrV (General Agent in behalf of the 
 JUSHirll HAK V JL. I , I Committee of Agency. 
 
 -Andover, Jan. 2, 1826.
 
 27 
 
 The Directors feel it to be their duty in this place to repeat 
 a Statement respecting the condition of the Treasury, which 
 was first published in the Boston Recorder 8f Telegraph of last 
 July; and to add a brief notice of its present circumstances. 
 
 The Directors of the American Education Society, at their meet- 
 ing on the 13th inst- found that the monies in the hands of the Treas- 
 urer for current use were less, by about $600, than a sufficient sum 
 to meet the usual quarterly appropriations. The sums heretofore 
 granted have been barely adequate to the wants of those indigent 
 young men who practise a rigid economy. No farther reduction 
 could be made, without disappointment to all, and without real dis- 
 tress and appalling discouragement to some of these young men, nor 
 without a very inconvenient derangement of an extended and com- 
 plex system of operations. 
 
 The Directors felt constrained, under these circumstances, to 
 make appropriations as usual, and to authorize the Treasurer to bor- 
 row, if necessary, a sum adequate to the demand. Such an exigen- 
 cy, though repeatedly apprehended before, has always been avoid- 
 ed by a seasonable appeal to the Christian public, who have in ev- 
 ery case, promptly furnished relief. In the present instance, the 
 want of funds has resulted unavoidably from the want of a General 
 Agency for the Society, — an office which has been extremely need- 
 ed, and which the Directors hope to see shortly occupied. In the 
 mean time it is confidently hoped that they who are never weary in 
 well doing will see in this simple statement of facts, an urgent mo- 
 tive to aid immediately the Treasury of a Society that has shared 
 so largely in their prayers and beneficence, and done so much for 
 the interests of the church. That to have these exigencies supplied 
 it is only necessary to make them known, is the pleasing and almost 
 certain expectation of the Committee of the Board of Directors. 
 
 WARREN FAY. 
 
 In addition to the above, it may now be stated that the Di- 
 rectors at their quarterly meeting in October last found it neces- 
 sary to authorize the Treasurer to borrow a much larger sum, 
 that they might make out their quarterly appropriations, and not 
 interrupt the studies of those youth who are looking to them for 
 help. This the Directors have done from the necessity of the case, 
 and because they felt perfectly assured, from past experience. 
 
 ^»Oj
 
 28 
 
 that when the circumstances should be fairly made known, the 
 friends and patrons of the Society would not wish them to with- 
 draw or diminish their customary appropriations, but would 
 promptly furnish the necessary means to proceed with this great 
 work. It is to be remembered also, that another quarterly meet- 
 ing is approaching, and that others will follow in regular order, 
 when, unless our Treasury is speedily replenished, the Directors 
 must be compelled to resort to the unpleasant measure of in- 
 creasing their debt, or of abandoning the objects of this charity. 
 
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