and great men, admit no man for so many years to any great benefice, \na such as shall oblige themselves to preach three years gratis in America : with part of the living let him maintain a curate, and the other part k; him apply to his own use. By this means we shall have the greatest and best men; and in all human probability, such men must in a sh(jrt time, have made a wonderful progress in the conversio!i of these coun- . tries, especially when it is perceived the good of souls is the only motive to this undertaking.' <*
About the same time he informs the Society that : --
~*
'• The want of a Bishop, and exorbitant power of the several Governors of the Plantations are great hindrances to the propagation of the Gospel." "
The following extract is taken from his next communication to the Secretary : --
" I have used some endeavors to persuade the Dutcli in my neighborhood, into a good ophiion of the Church of England ; and have had that success, that they would, I believe, join, a great part of them, in the sacraments and worsliip, had they Dutch common prayer-books, and a minister that understood their language. I have taken some pains with one of their ministers, one jlr. lleuricus Ueyse, and have prevaik^d on him to accept of Episcopal ordination. I think him a nuni of the best learning we hiivc in this part of the world, and I believe he may Ik.' ranked among the men of letters in the other, but I must acquaint you tliat he