Accept my very grateful acknowledgments for your kindness in extending to me an invitation to attend the celebration of the introduction of the Croton water into the city, on the 14th instant. Several engagements interfere to prevent my acceptance of the favor, and it might not comport very well with one of my age and habits to join in the 'parade, and mingle in the festivities of the celebration ; but I do not the less rejoice, and that most heartily, that we have lived to witness theaccomplishment of a work, which must confer an immeasurable amount of comfort and safety on the city at large.

Since my first acquaintance with New-York as a citizen, it has increased about five fold in numbers, and probably as much in wealth. It was my privilege, during a 25 years,

residence, to unite with my very truly esteemed fellow-citizens, in the establishment and promotion of several of the beneficent institutions which now add dignity to the character of the city. Among the enterprises (in prospect,) was one for providing an ample supply of pure water. For this purpose, I once went on a mission to Albany. That project, doubtless, happily for the city, proved abortive.

That the present great undertaking should have succeeded in so reasonable a time from its commencement, in the midst of financial difficulties, redound most highly to the credit of the authorities, the committee, the engineers, the artificers, and the public.

CROTON AQUEDUCT. 259

That the city has enjoyed the blessings of peace and prosperity, during the execution of this noble enterprise, though not unmingled with severe privations, is cause of devout