There is no doubt from the Letter you inclosed to me that the Clergy at Boston would wish well to a design so laudable in speculation, but after giving it much attention I am inclined to apprehend that there is more difficulty in the execution than you seem aware of; success is no Constant attendant on Lauda- . ble designs, they often owe it to party, or to the favorable operation of lucky Circumstances, and to cool reception and failure of some similar views, tho' well supported & strongly recommended creates a doubt in me of the snecess of a Scheme without any fund, depending on the piety of men in power, or the bounty of the public.--perhaps within a little time the Scheme 'may bid fairer for success, when however loath to renew applications I would willingly give it my countenance, as it has my best Wishes, and I am heartily sorry that the present times

VoL. Iv. 32

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do not appear more favorable to a design that might be productive of much benefit.

Be assured that I shall always be glad to see or hear from you as I am with truth and regard, Sir |

Your hearty Well wisher and very humble Servt.

Henry Babcock Esqt

Sir John Col Johnson Dr Dease & all here desire to be kindly remembered to you.

COL. BABCOCK TO SIR WM. JOHNSON.

Stonington 28th Dect 1773. Sir I was honoured with your Favour of the 19 Nov' which have now before me, and have read it with the greatest attention; and altho' I am very loth to be troublesome to you, with my Letters, yet have presumed once more to write to you.--I observe you are pleased to say, that " Perhaps in a little Time 'the Scheme may bid Fairer for Success, when however loth "to renew applications, I would willingly give it my Counten- 'ance, as it has my best Wishes" &c.