New York money, established by Act of Assembly upon the minister of this parish : but the people being very poor, and the building of our church having cost a great deal, I thought it more proper to bear with them, than to exact by force what is due ; and So Suffer rather in my own condition, than that the house of God should not be finished, wliicli now, to my great comfort, is completed, and a Stately fabric it is indeed. It was built by the inhabitants of the Town of Rye, without the help of the parish. And as for Subscriptions from other parts of the Government, we have had none but I expect Some at York for making the pulpit, communion table, and finishing the Seats.

PAPERS RELATING TO WESTCHESTER COUNTY. 937

You direct me to bring to church the negroes and Indians of this parish, and to consult with M^" Neau about the most proper means for their instruction. M^ Neau is a good, rehgious man, his conversation is desirable and edifying. I always have, and ever shall esteem it my happiness to keep a Settled correspondence with him : for I know he will joyfully do anything that may contribute to the conversion of infidels to Christianity. But there are only a few negroes in this parish. Save what are in Colonel Heathcote's family, where I think there are more than in all the parish besides. However, So many as we have, I shall not be wanting to use my endeavours for their good.