There is a hopeful prospect « of the increase and flourishing state of religion among that scattered poor people, and no endeavours of mine are wanting to serve them in their best interest. I preached to them about two weeks before upon a special fast, appointed in that Province, to implore the smiles and blessing of Divine Providence to attend his Majesty's arms the ensuing campaign ; upon which occasion, also, that people gave a religious and decent attendance.

I am, Rev. Sir, your most obedient, most humble servant and brother in Christ, Ebenezer Dibblee."*

, « IT)0 following inscription occurs on the corner stone of St. Stephen's church, Ridgefield "The Church was founded In Ridgefield A,D. 1740. The first church edifice erected 1741. the second the third 1S41. The i hurch of the living God, the plllai aud ground oi the truth.' (Tim. lit : 15.)

* St, John's parochial Rec Stamford, Connecticut.

c Conn. MSS. from archives at Fulharu, 392. (Uawks).

HISTORY OF THE COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER.

About the year 1764 the parish of Salem united with the parishes of Ridgefield and Ridgebury, and engaged Mr. Richard S Clark to read divine service and sermons on Sundays. In 1766, Mr. Epenetus Townsend was engaged as a lay reader; in a letter of Oct. 1st, 1767, Mr. Dibblee of Stamford writes to the Secretary of the Venerable Propagation Society, as follows: "Mr. Townsend thankfully accepts the leave to go home for Holy Orders; and if the society is not pleased to appoint him their missionary, at Salem, and parts contiguous, where he is much wanted, he will submit to the will and superior wisdom and direction of the society."* Mr. Townsend returned from England, April 22nd, 176s, and was formally inducted rector of Salem on Sunday, the 29th of May, 1768, by his predecessor, the Rev.