They were thoroughly imbued with the democratic spirit that, with the freedom of the individual, respected fully both the natural and the acquired rights of others. They valued education. In Holland their free-school system was the best in Europe. Women occupied an exceptionally honorable position, both in society and in the management of afiairs, so that they ably assisted in the business of the family in training their children to usefulness and in contributing to the welfare of the community. The Dutch were steadfast in their religious faith, and had a high regard for morality.

Such a people lay solid foundations for their social and political institutions, and they stamped most wholesome and enduring impressions upon the settlements of Westchester County.

The English SETTLEJtEXX. -- The introduction of the Reformation into England by Henry VHI. was more nominal than real, and left to succeeding reigns the settlement of many of the great questions involved. The reign of Elizabeth saw the storm steadily gathering, while that of James I. was a time of continual turmoil and strife. The chief disputes were among the Protestants themselves, and mainly concerned the extent to which the changes should go. The people abandoned themselves to the consideration of questions of civil and religious liberty. Dissenters returning from the Continent threw their advanced ideas into the arena of public discussion. During the Commonwealth the spirit of controversy seemed to possess all classes. Questions of religion divided the time with state affairs in the discussions of Parliament. This spirit separated the English people into hostile camps and produced a numerous brood of religious sects.