Kirkland 152f September 8th Reverend Sir I have not had an Opportunity to talk with Miss Bettse since I came from Norwich ( about a week ago) till last Evening a few Minutes - She desires to be remembered to you. When I wrote the letter I could not talk with her (propter Causam antiquam) but last night she informed me she felt comfortable. and had done for near 3 weeks past, though many Doubts about her State. -She has been released from her old Distress, and what Distress she now meets with ari Show moreKirkland 152f September 8th Reverend Sir I have not had an Opportunity to talk with Miss Bettse since I came from Norwich ( about a week ago) till last Evening a few Minutes - She desires to be remembered to you. When I wrote the letter I could not talk with her (propter Causam antiquam) but last night she informed me she felt comfortable. and had done for near 3 weeks past, though many Doubts about her State. -She has been released from her old Distress, and what Distress she now meets with arises from another Source - Christ appears a complete Saviour, as willing as able, and she sees 'tis attainments, but is looking out for a sound, real, and evidential Conversion - She hates the Hypocrite - I really hope Christ Jesus is precious to the tender Heart! O! may the Father of Lights fill her with Light, and assured Evidences! Ah! scatter the Clouds of Darkness and shine in upon her mind the bright beams of Divine Glory! P.S. 2. Miss Bettse was at a loss whether it would be best to acquaint you with this: but I hope there is more reality in it than she feared, therefore you will know how better to petition for her. P.S. 3. Don't expose me, nor the Person I mentioned. Please to overlook my haste and carelessness. How much would a Letter rejoice your most sincere, most affectionate, most entire, real and ever unfeigned Friend, David Avery ! Part of a letter from David Avery to Samuel Kirkland 1769? For the Reverend Mr. Samuel Kirkland, Missionary, at Oneida per favour D. Fowler Show less
Avery has been upholding Samuel Kirkland's honor and reputation, dispelling any evil rumors. Avery has recently been on mission in the district of Maine, and he has served several stints as a teacher. Now he is responsible for the regulating of churches.
Avery introduces Reverend Sherman. Avery asks Kirkland to show Sherman around Oneida. There is a great opposition to Avery in the Massachusetts Missionary Society, and he does not expect to be employed by them much longer.
Avery desires more frequent correspondence and is dismayed at the attempts by some people to take Samuel Kirkland from his mission post. He inquires as to Kirkland's knowledge on the newly founded Grand Missionary Society in London, in regards to expanding "to the South Seas, Africa, Canada and other parts of the Pagan World." Avery also tells Kirkland of Captain Wilson's ship the Duff which "failed" with 29 missionaries from England on board. He also talks of Mr. Brainard's Evangelical Magazine and the correct approach to Indians. P.S. Send love to David Fowler and all of the Oneida people.
Commencement at Dartmouth was on the previous day. Degrees were not conferred, as a quorum of trustees was not present. Avery will spend the winter at Oneida although in poor health.
En route from Long Island to Hanover, will See Wheelock. Would like to visit Virginia, health permitting. Talk in Boston of Wheelock/Kirkland conflict.
This document justifies the solicitation of funds from charitable societies for the Hamilton Oneida Academy. It describes the great efforts put forth by Samuel Kirkland in all aspects of his life, in particular the Academy. Samuel Kirkland had given 325 acres of land as well as pecuniary aid for the worthy purpose of education and teaching of morals.