D

I i "I give iluft Batis
f fof thi^ fat^mUng ef a^Celftgi m. if^£elotif''

'Y^LE«¥]MH¥EI^Sinr¥« - ILKIBI^^IElf -

From the Library of
SIMEON E. BALDWIN, Y '6i
Gift of his children
HELEN BALDWIN GILMAN
ROGER SHERMAN BALDWIN, Y '90
1927

DISCOURSE, OCCASIONED BY THE
DEATH OF
HIS EXCELLEJVCY
JONATHAN TRUMBULL, ESQ.
GOVERNOR
OF THE STATE OF CONNECTICUT ;
AND DELIVERED, AT THE REQUEST OF THE
General Assembly,
IN THE BRICK CHURCH IN NEW-HAVEN.

BY TIMOTHY D WIGHT, D.D.
PRESIDEHT or YALE-COLLEGE.

PUBLISHED Br VHE REQUEST OF "THE GENERAL ASSEBIBLT,

NEW-HAVEN,
VBINTED AKD SOLD BY OLIVER STEELE AND GO.

1809.

o:t^e,5oi

o^i^cour^e.

OCCASIONED BT THE DEATH OF

GOVERNOR TRUMBULL.

Psalm xxxvii. 37.
Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright : for tht
end of that inan is peace.*
THE perfect man, in scriptural language, is the same
person with the upright. Perfection, in the abso
lute sense, it is hardly necessary to observe, is never
found in the present wofld. Every object, both in the
natural and moral kingdom, is here stamped with muta
bility, decay and dissolution. In every thing earthly,
there is much, that is of too little value in the sight of
God to deserve a lasting existence. The world itself,
as well as its furniture, and inhabitants, is destined to a
speedy termination, and will soon be blotted out of be
ing. A great part of all that, which forms the compli-
* This discourse was far advanced before the Writer was inform
ed, that the Rev. Mr. Ely had chosen the same Text for liis Sermon,
delivered at the Funeral of Governor Trumbull.

4
cated idea of Man, will follow the general destiny. Even
the mind, if renewed here, will, like the body^ which it
inhabited, enter the world of life, shorne of many attri
butes, which have hitherto formed much of its character.
But, although no child of Adam is perfect on this side
of the grave, there are many, who are in some degree,
possessed of those characteristics, which, when unmixed
and unalloyed, constitute perfection. All these are, on
this account, styled in the Scriptures perfect. This
name seems also, to be sometimes given to those of them
especially, who sustain the character, referred to, in su-
periour degrees. In this manner we may, without vio
lence, construe the language of the text.
The man of this character the Psalmist directs us to
mark ; that is, to observe with attention and care ; as an
object, which claims our solemn regard, and which to us
may become particularly useful. In the view of this
divine writer ; in the view, let me add, of the Great Be
ing, under whose inspiration he wrote this passage ; there
is something in the character and conduct of such men,
which, when duly regarded by us, will naturally be pro
ductive of real, and important good.
All upright men are not, however, equally interesting,
nor equally profitable, objects of this attention. Nor
can all men derive equal instruction, or equal benefit of
any kind, from the contemplation of the same upright
man. Good men, however good, when possessing hum
ble faculties, filling very limited spheres of life, and act
ing in retired and obscure stations, furnish, usually, fewer
lessons of instruction, and present fewer motives to ex
cellence, than those, who, with more enlarged minds,
are placed by their Maker in more elevated stations.
Still ever^ such man is, to those who mark his life, a
profitable source of improvement ; really to all who ob-

serve him ; peculiarly to those who resemble him in
character and station. As moral beings, all men are
substantially on a level : and the most enlightened, re
fined, and dignified, may learn wisdom and excellence
from the humblest votary of righteousness and truth.
He, who fails of becoming wiser and better by reading
the story of the Shepherd of Salisbury Plain, may rest
satisfied, that he fails, because he loves neither wisdom
nor virtue.
But the history of .Abraham, Moses, David, or Pauly
is, nevertheless, instructive in a still higher degree. The
Cottager, who cannot even read, may be a source of
improvement to his fellow cottager in almost every thing
which can be useful to him ; but will hot very naturally,
jior very often, become an object of the notice, or even
ofthe knowledge, of persons in the higher walks of life.
Nor would his worth, when observed and acknowledged,
usually come home to the hearts of such persons with all
the commendations, and enforcements, of which virtue
is capable. But, when this glorious excellence finds a
seat in minds of a superiour structure, and is raised to
distinction of place and influence, it becomes visible to
the surrounding world ; attracts the attention of multi
tudes; appears in numerous instructive and persuasive
forms ; and is arrayed in a delightful and most engaging
splendour. In this situation, all men behold, and mark,
the perfect man with the highest advantage.
The reason, given in the text for obedience to the in
junction, which it contains, is eminently impressive :
" For the end of that man is peace." This declaration
is capable of two meanings ; both just, and highly im
portant. One of them is, that the death of such a man is
peaceful; as being undisturbed by apprehensions of fu
ture evil, cheered by the approbation of a good con-

science, sfcrened by the hope of acceptance beyond the
grave, and illliniined by the Faith, which, to him be
comes the evidence, and the substance, of eternal glory-
The other is, thsA the future being ofthe perfect man,
is, of course, prosperous, and delightful. The object,
indicated in the former case, is deeply interesting ; in
the latter, of jnfimte moment. Who can be indifierent
to the gloom, the pains, the terrors, of death ? Who
must not think a deliverance from these evils, and the
possession of the enjoyments contrasted to them, a de
sirable, a divme, consummation of our probationary
state ?
Who would not toil and struggle through life, and
exult at death, with the assured prospect of finding, in
the approaching world, a destiny, formed only of virtue,
happiness, and honour. How accordant with the design
of the Scriptures, how suited to the character of their
Author, is a precept, which directs us to the contempla
tion of so instructive an object, for the attainment of a
good so divine ?
Rarely has it happened, that mankmd have been called
upon to contemplate an example of the character and
conduct referred to in the text, by which more, or more
profitable, sources of instruction have been furnished,
than by the excellent Magistrate, whose death has cre
ated so general a mourning throughout this state. Sum
moned by a call, invested with the highest human au
thority, to the employment of exhibiting a respectful
view of his character on this occasion, I have felt myself
bound to make the attempt. It will be attended with
many imperfections': still it is hoped, that it may, in
some degree, be useful to those who hear me.
Governor Trumbull was the son of a man, who
by tlie public acknowledgment was one of tlie most dig-

Hified and useful, one of the wisest and best. Rulers,
whose names adorn the pages of History. In the steps
of this honourable Parent, the Son trode, through life,
with an undeviating course. Soon after he had finished
his education, he began to serve his Country ; first in
the Legislature, and then in the Revolutionary army.
Here, in respectable stations, he continued, with a short
interruption, through t}ie war. Soon after the establish
ment of peace, he was chosen again into the Legislature^
of which he was regularly a member until the present
American Constitution was adopted. He then was elect
ed a Representative, and soon after a Senator, of the
l/nited States. Ffom the last station he was removed
t© the second, and then to the fii-st. Chair of Magistracy
in his native State. To the latter he was annually elect
ed by his fellow citizens, until he was removed by death.
In all those situations, he acquired, uniformly, the appro
bation and respect of those with whom, and of those for
whom, he acted.- Not a spot is left upon his memory ;
distracted as was the season of his public life, and diffi
cult as was the task of satisfying the demands of those
whom he served. Such a career, only honourable to
himself, and only useful to his Country, is a proof of his
worth, which can never be assailed by hostility, ques
tioned by criticism, nor impaired by tin^e. Experience
has assayed the ore, and proved it to be pure gold. On
it his Country has authoritatively stamped the image,
and inscribed the testimony, of her own approbation j
ajid has thus given to it an undisputed currency through.
the world
It is impossible to contemplate with sobriety and dis
cretion the life of such a mau, in such circumstances,
without profit. Men in all stations may learn from it
the most useful lessons. The citizen may gain the wis-

8
dom and worth, which wiU happily form his personal
character, and direct his private concerns. The States
man, in addition to these interesting attainments, may
learn from him how to conduct with skill, success, and
honour, the concerns of his Country.
Every wise and good man necessarily involves many
excellencies in his character. Of these some are, of
course, common to other men of this character ; and
some are, comparatively, of inferiour importance. An
observer of life, who would derive from this source the
most profitable instruction, will naturally rest his eye on
those traits, which are peculiar to the object of his con
templation ; and 'on those, which by their importance,
are especially fitted to engross attention. In the present
case, what would usually flow from choice, becomes the
result of necessity. Were the preacher to descant, par
ticularly, on the various and complicated excellence of
his theme ; an extent of time must be allowed him,
which would be wholly inconsistent with the demands of
the present occasion. The personal and domestic virtues
of Governor Trumbull might easily be insisted on witli
pleasure, and profit, through a volume. Who, unless
peculiarly dull, or unhappily reluctant, might not learn
from him amiableness of character, and exemplariness of
life ? By his side, whose integrity would not be strength*
ened ; whose disposition would not be rendered more
sweet and lovely ; whose sentiments would not be re
fined; whose manners would not be polished; whose
discretion would not be improved ; whose life would not
be adorned with increasing propriety, and superiour
worth ? Who, in a word, would not become a better
father, a better husband, a better neighbour, a better
friend, a better man ?

On these subjects however, interesting as they are, I
cannot dwell. Adliering to the rule mentioned above, I
shall take the liberty to select for your contemplation the
following subjects ; which, if I mistake not, were promi
nent features in the character of this gi-eatand good man.
I. The Energy of his mind was supremely directed to
practical objects.
To the human mind there are three scenes of employ
ment, in which, at times, it has acquired the distinction,
customarily termed greatness: the field of fancy; the
field of speculation ; and the field of action. The first is
peculiarly the province of the Sculptor, the Painter, and
the Poet. The Philosopher occupies the second ; and
the Orator claims them both. The third is peculiarly
the scene of effort to the Hero, the Statesman, and the
Patriot. It is scarcely necessaiy to observe, that these
remarks are made in a compai'ative sense only ; or that,
in greater or less degrees, fancy, reason, and action, are
common to all men.
The end of all thought is action : and the whole value
of thought consists in this ; that it is the proper, and the
only, means of accomplishing thjs end. He therefore,
who is employed in acting virtuously, and usefully, fills a
nobler sphere of being, than he, who is busied in that
course of thinking, from which the action is derived. The
proof of this assertion, is complete, in the maxim, that
the end li always of more importance than the means.
It is a remarkable characteristic of human nature,
that ew speculative men become eminently useful in the
active spheres of life. Habits of speculation, long con
tinued, and extended far, render the mind unfit for those
vigorous efforts of activity, by which alone tlie practical
" B

10
eoncerns of mankind are prosperously managed. Spec
ulative men, also, occupy most of their time, and
thoughts, in devising, and establishing, general princi
ples. Active men are chiefly employed in those details
of business, which are indispensable to its success, and
without which general prirtciples are matters of mere
amusement. Of these details almost all speculative men
are impatient. Such men at the same time interweave,
of course, their own theoretical views in every scheme
of business, with which they are concerned. The ener
gy of their minds is also employed, and exhausted, on
their speculations : while the active business, to which
they are destined, and ought to be devoted, engages only
their feebler efforts : the dregs, the settlings, of their
, thoughts. From these causes, and others connected with
them, it arises, liiat a theoretical man is always a bad
Ruler. To such men, however, there is often attached
no small splendour of reputation. Whenever this is the
fact, and they are raised to important ofiices of govem
ment, they regularly disappoint, and mortify, their admi
rers. Their official life is unproductive, inefficacious,
and, with regard to the business which they are expected
to do, lazy. Their views are visionary ; and their de
signs, however well intended, totally unsuited to the ob-
jects, at which they professedly aim. Men they regard,
not as they are, but as their imagination has fashioned
them ; and the world, not as we actually find it, but as it
is viewed by an excursive fancy. Hence their plans,
instead of being fitted to promote the real Velfare of
man, are only a collection of waking dreams ; a course
of political Quixotism ; regulating the affairs of a state
in much the same manner, as the adventures of Amadis
de Gaul would regulate those of a private individual.
The excellent person, whom we are contemplating,
was a direct contrast to all this. Devoted to active em-

11
ployments from the beginning, accustomed to the vari
ous business of man, and sharpened in his discernment
of practical subjects by the actual management of them,
and by a long continued intercourse with those who were
skilled in that management, he was habitually trained to
that patient attention, that critical observation, and that,
skilful conduct, which are so useful, and so indispensa
ble, in all business of real importance. By observing,
watchfully, every thing which was useful, and every
thing which was noxious, in public affairs ; the measure^
which ensured, and^the measures which failed of, suc
cess ; he learned, in an unusual degree, the manner, in
which success is obtained. Of this position his political
life furnishes the most decisive proof. Not a single vis
ionary measure, not a capricious expedient; not a fetch,
not a whim, disfigures his public character, or presents a
subject for a single disgraceful sentence in his political
history.. The story is all of one sort; and is told in one
style. When he entered upoft his pubUc lifej he struck
a key; and moved in exact harmony with it to the end.
As his character was thus wise, and uniform ; so it
was eminently honourable. To the subjects, which have
been mentioned, he . gave the whole vigour of his miiuik
He was engrossed by them, as a Poet by the theme of
of his song; or the man of taste by the improvement of
his villa. In all the successive spheres which he filled,
his life, and his measures, were eminently useful-; and
deserved, and gained, the approbation of his own mind^
and that of his country.
II. He was not less remarkable for his Prudence.
This attribute of the human mind is chiefly employed
in preventing eviL In a world, where evil is so rife, said

12
so ready to mingle with all our concerns, the necessity
of this characteristic is absolute, and its value inestima
ble. Rash, headlong men, and the admirers of such
men, have,, indeed, very generally disesteemed it, be
cause all its dictates condenm their folly, and the mis
chiefs, to which it continually gives birth. But the Wi
sest of mankind wrote the book of Proverbs, to give to
the young man knowledge and discretion ; and the Son of
God has said, " / Wisdom dwell with Prudence.'''' Per
fectly accordant with these declarations is the exhibition,
made of this subject by Experience. The mischiefs,
done to every human interest through the want of pru
dence, are endless in their multitude, and incalculable in
their importance. A single imprudent act has often de
stroyed a reputation, built up by the honourable labours
of many years ; a family, firmly established in prosperi
ty ; an army, apparently invincible, in the full career of
victory ; and a country, safe, to the human eye, from
every enemy, and every danger.
• Talents, energy, and effort, are, under God, the ac
knowledged means of procuring blessings. But of what
value are blessings, which exist, only to vanish ; and are
gained only to be lost : a cup of Tantalus, receding from
the hand, just ready to grasp it : a buljble, bursting at
the moment, when it has begun to fascinate the eye with
its enchanting colours ? But Prudence is the onl)'^ human
means of securing the blessings which we acquire : the
Dragon, watching the garden of the Hesperides, and
alone preserving its golden fiaiit from accident, fraud,
and rapine. As much more valuable, as the secure
possessidn of enjoyments is, than the mere acquisition,
so much more estimable is this single virtue, than all
those splendid, attributes, and atchievements, which
awaken silly pride, and excite stupid admiration.

13
The prudence of the man, whom we this day lament,
bordered upon perfection. With his life, conversation,
and views, and with many of those who best knew him,
I have been long and intimately acquainted, yet I know
not, that I ever heard him utter an imprudent word ; nor
that an imprudent act is recorded in his history. No
such act has appeared in his public life : nor has any
such act in his private life been communicated to the
world. Those who come after him, will find nothing in
his administration to censure, lament, or repair. Yet the
season of that administration was one of the most diffi
cult which this country ever knew ; one ofthe most per
plexing both to wisdom and virtue : a season, in which
imprudence would have done more harm, than, perhaps,
at any other period in the history of this State ; and in
which prudence has probably done more good.
To his possession of this attribute, in so high a degree,
J;he Moderation, for which he was so remarkable, emi
nently contributed. Men are immoderate both in their
imagination and their feelings. In the former case we style
them, romantic ; 'v!ii\\e.\ii\.X.tr, ardent aoA. sanguine. Men
of the former class are visionary ; of the latter, rash.
At the schemes of the former class we smile : at the
measures of the latter, when concerned with our serious
interests, we tremble. . AU prudent men are found among
the moderate. An immoderate man is constitutionally,
and preeminently, imprudent-
For moderation, in both these respects, Governor Trum
bull was highly distinguished. His imagination, although
a fruitful source of pleasure, in private conversation, to
those around him, was never suffered to mingle with his
practical concerns,, nor to intrude upon his serious pur
suits. To sanguine expectations, ardent projects, and
rash measures, he seems to have been constitutionally a

14
strangei-. Contented to view men, and measures, as they
were, his mind annexed to them nothing adventitious ;
neither light nor shade; neither beauty nor deformity.
He chose to see every thing in its native colours ; and in
this manner saw it with a truth and correctness, which no
sanguine man ever attained. To this mode of contem
plating every subject all his plans, and measures, were
conformed. They were, therefore, universally the
plans, and measures, of sound, unbiassed common sense ;
and never the dreams of fancy, nor the headlong projects
of iifconsiderate ardour.
A remarkable proof of this trait in his character is
found in the fact, that he rarely made use of a superla
tive; i. e. for the purpose of exaggeration. Words of
this class are the favourite language of men, who are
strongly influenced by imagination, or under the con*
trol of ardent feeUngs ; men, who, as every one knows,
are not unfrequently of a vibrating, variable character;
His calm, unchanging mind found a peculiar satisfaction
in describing, asserting, and, universally, in unfolding
his views of objects, as they appeared to the intellect,
and in conformity to naked truth. Men, in whom this
characteristic is found, usually possess moderation, and
stability also, in a peculiar d^ree, and peculiarly engage
the confidence of their fellow men.
The benefits of this -mode of thinking are both nu-
tnerous and important. The measures, to which it gives
Ijirth, are, more than any other, suited to the real state
of things ; and are therefore easily and advantageously
•executed. They are attended with the least anxiety
concerning their success ; and most rarely create pain
and disappointment by their failure. They ensure the
reputation of wisdom to their author ; and most effec-

15
tual'ly preserve the confidence, as well as the interests^
of those, by whom he is employed.
Another characteristical part of his pnidehce was a
disposition to ask the advice of others. We are taught
by the voice of Infinite Wisdom, that in the multitude of
counsellors there is safety. To this truth the temper of
his mind was peculiarly congenial. Eminently indepen
dent, he was at the same time far removed from self-de
pendence. As he had no points to carry, and no favour.*
Ites to advance ; as the public good was his real and on
ly object ; it was to him of no consequence, by whora
useful measures were originated, provided they were ac
tually Originated ; nor to whom the reputation of doing
good was due, provided the good was really done.
Hence he was ever ready to ask, and to respect, the opin
ions of discreet men. In this way he obtained, contin
ually, the best views, which could be furnished, concern
ing important subjects ; and was prepared to act in the
most safe and salutary manner. Of this conduct, so
Siccordant with his own disposition, he had an illustri
ous example in his great Master, the immortal Washing
ton ; to whose prudence the American States are scarce
ly less indebted for their happiness, than to his arms.
III. Our late excellent Chief Magistrate was no le$t
extinguished for Firmness of mind.
It is not strange, that a person, whose sentiments,
manners, and conduct, wore so uniform an aspect of
softness and gentleness ; who so readily yielded both
his gratifications, and his labours, to the convenience of
those around him ; and who in private life seemed haM-
ly to discover, that he had any inchnations of his own j
should be thought to possess a yielding', gentle charac-

16
ter only. Such an opinion, I am persuaded, was exten
sively spread among his countrymen in this, and in other
parts of the Union. But no opinion was ever more er
roneous. It is questionable whether there is a firmer
and more independent man living. Every approaching
storm he contemplated with composure : every shock,
howe\er rude, he sustained with immoveable steadiness
of mind. That-cheerful serenity of countenance, which
most of those, who hear me, remember so' distinctly,
and, as I persuade myself, with peculiar pleasure, never
forsook him in the most threatening seasons. Troubles,
instead of moving him, seemed only to give him an op
portunity of shewing the stability of his character.
On the importance, dignity, and usefulness, of an at
tribute, so highly respected by all men, as firmness of
mind has ei'er been ; especially in a Ruler ; it is unne
cessary to insist. A mere glance at the mischiefs, ef
fectuated by the contrary character,, will sufficiently
elucidate this subject to the satisfaction of the most
sceptical inquirer. Let him, who is at a loss conceming
the subject, cast his eye upon the transactions of Eu
rope; and observe both the republics, and the monar
chies, of that Continent, ruined by the timid counsels
and wavering measures, by the indecision and ineffi
ciency, of their irresolute Rulers, vibrating between
hope and fear, between resistance and submission ; and
he will ask for no further illustration.
IV. He was in an eminent degree attached to the
Manners, and Institutions, of his native State.
The literary world has been filled with discourses con
cerning Republips, and their various appendages. In
other countries, as well as in this, the press has beei>

11
loaded with observations concerning Republican forms
of government, Republican rights. Republican mstitu-
tions. Republican virtues, and Republican manners. Ei
ther these subjects are very imperfectly understood ; or
multitudes of those, who converse, and write, about
them, can hardly be acquitted of sinister designs. Their
practice and their declarations certainly have, in many
instances, very little accordance. The State of Con
necticut is more absolutely republican, than any other,
which for a long period has existed in the world. Its
constitution of govemment was originally formed, and
established, by the freemen in person. Its laws ; its in
stitutions, which ai-e the result of its laws ; its manners,
which are the effect of both ; its virtues ; and, I might
add, its vices to a great extent, also; togetlier with its
rights, duties, and interests, are all entirely Republican.
A man as such, is, in this state, possessed of more real
consequence, than in any other. More than half, I be*
lieve not far from three fourths, of its freemen hold, at
some period of life, offices either civil or military; and
thus actvially share in the government of the state. The
state is divided, successively, into counties, towns, par
ishes, and school districts : all of. them bodies, holding,
in subordination to the legislature, the powers of gov
ernment over their local affairs ; and thus superintending
with peculiar felicity every interest, public and private,
of every individual. Here, also, no man, as such, has
any other power, beside his mere, bodily strength. All
power exists in the law: and this is powerful without
any assignable limit. But the real power of law itself
lies in the fact, that it is actually, and not in pretence on
ly, the public will. Men, here, have generally sufficient
intelligence to discern, that Government is essential tQ

18
their happiness ; and to perceive that theii: own govern
ment is peculiarly auspicious to this desirable object.
Hence they feel a real approbation in this pase ; and ex
ercise a real choice ; facts scarcely predicable of the
great body of the inhabitants, in most other countries.
In this lies the chief strength of our political system.
For this System, and all its parts, and consequences,
the people of this state,, are, under God, indebted to
education, and habit. It could not be established, nor,
if established, could it be supported, in any other coun
try on the globe ; not, I apprehend, even in its sister
country, Massachusetts. It could not liave come into
existehce, even in Coimecticut^ among any other set of
men, except those, or such as those, vy^ho gave it birth ;
nor among them, in any circumstances of a different na
ture. It could not be maintained by any people, except
their descendants.
At the iame time, it is, at least in my own view, the
best government, which has hitherto existed. I do not
intend, nor am I so ignorant as to believe, that any form
of Govemment is good in the abstract; or good foi:
every people ; but I intend, that under this govemment
the inhabitants are, and ever have been, more free and
happy, than any other people ever were, since the be
ginning of time ; and that their govemment is, at once,
suited to their character, and the means of their happi
ness. It has, indeed, lost something, in modern times,
of its former excellence : but it still retains more that is
valuable, than can be found elsewhere ; and more, than,
if once lost, will ever be regained.
As these mighty advantages have been preserved,
hitherto, by the power of habit ; and as habit depends
for all ijs power on custom, and cpntinual repetition ; it

19
is evident, beyohd a question, that he, who loves this
state ; or who, in other words, is a Connecticut Patriot ;
will equally love its laws, institutions, and manners.
Such a patriot was^ the late Governor Trumbidl. It was
from these views, that he set that high price on the
" steady habits" of this. State ;£or which he has been
sometimes censured by persons, who, probably, had
tittle considered the subject : while he has been applaud
ed for it by others, as being a sentiment equally honour
able to his patriotism and his wisdom.
Permit me, on this occasion, to say, that this is an at
tachment, in which every citizen of this state ought ever
to follow this bright example; an attachment, which
evety citizen ought invariably to feel, and ardently to
cherish : an attachment, which every citizen will feel^
"who clearly understands, and faithfully regards, the well-
being of himself, his family, or his countrj'.
Permit me further to say, that; should the Ruler ofthe
Universe, provoked by our manifold sins, suffer our igj
norance,. our folly, our crimes, or the hand of a foreign
enemy, to destroy this singular system, the brightest
spot, which, sincf the apostasy, has been found on this
globe, would be shrouded in darkness, wijliout a pro
mise of returning day.
V. This great and good Man was peculiarly attached
io the Religious System of our Ancestors.
The religious doctrines, which the planters of New-
England, particularly of the Plymouth, Massachusetts,
and Connecticut Colonists, .brought with them to this
Continent, have not unfrequently been styled the Doc
trines of Grace, and the Doctrines of the Reformation.

20
That they are, substantially, the genuine doctrines of
the Gospel, is satisfactorily evinced by two very interest
ing considerations. The first of these is, that they have
been the doctrines of those, who in every age have
claimed the character of Orthodox ; and who by their
adversaries have been acknowledged to possess it in the
public estimation. By this I intend, that, from the age
ofthe Apostles, they were those, in whom the Apostolic
Church was regularly continued from period to period ;
so as to be, in each period, the same body with that,
whose early history is contained in the acts of the Apos
tles ; with that, to which the several Apostolic Epistles
were addressed. Let me add ; they were those, in
whom almost, if not absolutely, alone the christian char
acter has appeared with uniformity, and lustre. That
this body of men has judged justly conceming the doc
trines ofthe Gospel, and received them, at least in sub
stance, as they are there revealed, cannot, I think, be
questioned even with- plausibility, or decency. That
they have mistaken them, regularly, through such a suc
cession of ages, and yet "brought forth their proper fruits
in an evangelical life, is to me incredible. The fact
WQuld cert£{inly establish this remarkable conclusion ;
that error has been productive of incomparably more pi
ety and virtue in the world, than the truth of God.
The second proof of this assertion is,, what has indeed
been hinted already, that these doctrines have effectua
ted, among those who* have embraced them, ahuost all
the moral excellence, which has appeared in the Chris
tian world. If we may be allowed to understand the
Apostles in the plain meaning of their declarations, these
doctrines produced the mighty change which took place*
among Jews and Gentiles, in the first and second centu-

21
ries. In the same manner they renewed a great part of
the Christian world in what is emphatically called the
Reformation. To them, so far as my information ex
tends, every Revival of Religion owes its existence.
From them, and those who received them, nearly every
attempt to reforin, and christianize mankind, to publish
the Gospel in their various languages, and to gather
them into the fold of the Chief Shepherd, has obviously
sprung. In them, let me add, the creeds and confes
sions of all the Reformed churches harmonize, without
an exception of any serious moment.
Had we no other proof of the excellence of these doc
trines, beside theirhappy influence in the colonization
oi New-England, and the beneficial character, which
they have been the means of instamping on our laws, in
stitutions, and manners ; even these would furnish a
strong presumption in their favour. It will be remem
bered, that I have mentioned these objects as forming a
combination, in my own view singular, as well as emi
nently happy. Such colonies never existed since the
world began. No others were ever formed in such a
manner, or by such bodies of men. No others have
permanently produced such consequences, or given birth
to such a state of society.
That this wise and excellent man should have receiv
ed doctrines, so sanctioned, so beneficent to the interests
of mankind ; that he should have regarded them with a
reverence, and submission, due to the revealed will of
God ; and that he should have adhered to them with a
firmness, which, though calm, gentle, and catholic, was
at the same time immovable ; was to be expected by all,
who were acquainted with his real character. He regard
ed thera as the glory of his country, the glory of the

22
Church, the glory of the Gospel, and, in this world,, the
peculiar glory of its Author. He loved all, who loved
^em: he honoured all, by whom they were honoured
and defended.
VI. The Piety of this excellent Man was, at least, an
equally distinguished trait in his character.
There are certain attributes, which mankind have
agreed to adraire, and applaud. This admiration, and
this applause, have chiefly followed extraordinary tal
ents, and extraordinary actions. Goodness has, I ac
knowledge, had, at times, and in particular circles of
mankind, its friends, and panegyrists. But Greatness
has almost alone fascinated the human eye, and engros
sed human praise : Greatness, not accompanied by vir
tuous designs, nor directed to useful ends ; but employ
ed in promoting censurable purposes, and leaving be
hind it no traces,- except those of corruption, suflfering,
and sorrow. But this is not the noblest attribute, these
are not the most honorable efforts, of an immortal mind.
There is a character, superior in its nature, and more
deserving of commendation. There is a character,
which commends itself to the unbiassed dictates of Rea
son ; which, wherever it appears, awakens the smile of
conscience ; and which diffuses a cheering, glowing sat
isfaction through the heart. There is a character, which
claims respect in the heavens ; and calls forth the accents
of commendation in the regions of immortality ; a char
acter, on which the firstborn love to dwell ; which Ser
aphs acknowledge as the counterpart of their own excel
lence ; and which the Uncreated Mind beholds with
complacency, immutable and eternal. This character.

23
imperfect indeed, but real, is sometimes assumed by
man ; even in this world of debasement and sin. It is
the holiness, the virtue, ofthe- Gospel ; the love of God,
the love of man, accompanied, because those who assume
it are originally sinners, by Repentance towards Godi and
faith towafds our Lord Jesus Christ.. This character is
the light of minds ; varying, without decay, through aU
the colours of beauty and glory. It is gold seven times
purified, instamped with the image of Jehovah, and bur
nished with increasing splendour throughout the ages of
eternal being.
This character is most usually found in the vale of
humble life; and less frequently, than a benevolent
liiind could wish, in the syperipur walks of man. In
the present case, however, it has adorned the chair of
state. The illustrious Subject, of this discourse was not
only a.gre(it.y but, . so far as this character can be proved
to the human eye, a good man : great and good in the
sight of the Highest. The piety and benevolence, thh
repentance and faith, of the Gospel shone, with uncom
mon beauty, in the uniform, evangelical tenor of his
life ; lighted up the daily smile of serenity in his aspect;
diffused a christian moderation over his affections and .
conduct ; exhibited itself as j&wre, peaceable, gentle, easily
entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality,
arid without hypocrisy ; enabled hira to sustain, iraraova-
bly, the burdens which he was called to bear, and to raeet
with a steady eye every approaching tianger ; and finally
enabled him, serenely, to encounter the last enemy,, and
to triuraph in the conflict with death and the grave.
" The end of tlie perfect and upright man," says the
Psalraist, " is Peace. " Of this truth a more illustrious
cxemplificatipn has, perhaps, rarely ^een given, since •

2^
tlie days of inspiration were ended, than this excellent
Person exhibited on his dying bed. The disease, to
which he ultimately became a victim, was protracted to
a considerable length ; and was of such a nature, as to
assure him, that its termination must be death. The ap
proach of this enemy was, therefore, seen by him at a
distance ; and was seen to be certain, and regular in its
advances. In the fullest exercise of his reason, he con
templated the awful object, as it must ever be contem
plated by a wise man, with deep and soleran, but at the
same time with remarkably serene and undisturbed,
thought. He, who had raised him up for his service,
and made him his own by the blood of the cross, and the
Spirit of sanctification, forsook him not at this mo
mentous period. Every day of his sickness, almost,
brought with it its share of pain and suffering ; and that,
frequently intense, and sometimes extreme. Yet no
day heard him utter a single murmur ; or saw the tenor
of his mind disturbed for a moment. His happy unifomi-
ity of character accompanied him to the last ; except
that he shone with clearer splendour, as he approachad
the evening of his life. Death, long and often realized,
seemed familiar to him ; and was robbed of its sting, and
stripped of its terrors. Humble, but peaceful ; sub
missive, but collected ; supported by an invisible hand ;
and trusting for salvation in a righteousness, not his own ;
he replied to an intimate friend, who suggested to him
the reason for consolation and hope, furnished by the
tenor of his life, " O Sir, I place no reliance there. If
I have been enabled to do my duty, I was raised up for
that purpose ; and it is no ground of merit in me. But
I have the fullest confidence in the satisfaction, which
has been made. There I have always placed my hopes.

25
It is that alone, which can render me secure. It is am-
pie ; it is full ; and as free as full." From this source
he derived his enviable composure ; here he found the
peace, which passeth all understanding.
His views of the future world were strong, bright and
exulting ; and he earnestly, but with the most patient
submission, wished for the hour, which might terrainate
his residence in this. The scenes before hira, he con
sidered with intense eraotions, as wonderful and glori
ous ; and expressed his views conceming them in a man
ner deeply affecting. Still, he was duly mindful of the
objects which he was about to leave behind hira.*
To his family, severally, he gave his blessing with pe
culiar tenderness, and a solemnity, resembling that, whifch
is found in the history ofthe Patriarch. " My dear chil
dren," said he, to this beloved circle, " if you have seen
any thing in my life, wherein I have followed .Christ, be
ye followers of my example."
I have mentioned this excellent man as a Patriot.
.Well aware am I, that on this subject proof is superflu
ous. Still I cannot forbear rehearsing one of his dying
supplications, in which this character was very honour
ably, as well as very affectingly, exhibited. Clasping
his hands, and lifting up his eyes to heaven, he cried
* It deserves to be remembered, that Governor Trumbull, amid
the severe sufferings of his last sickness, mentioned, several time^
with deep concern the melancholy and miserable death, which clo
sed the miserable life of Thomas Paine; and ardently wished to find
in some of his last expressions a hope of his acceptance beyond* ths
grave. The reader cannot fail lo perceive, in this fact, a strong re
semblance to the spirit of Stephen, praying for his murderers ; and
to the spirit with which the Redeemer said, « Father, forgive them,,
for they know not what they do \" D

26
with great fervour, " I beseech Almighty God to bless
our dear Country ; and to give the petite wisdcan to
choose the things that are for their peace. I. implore
the divine blessing upon this State :" a prayer, to which,
it is hoped, every heart in this house will subjoin Amen.
Such, my Brethren, was the character of the many
whose death we this day so justly lament. How desir
able was his life ! How distinguished even from that of
most other excellent men. As a child of Adam, we can
not doubt, that he had many imperfiscticHis : but, as he
appeared to the eyes of mankind, his character is ynsul-
lied with a spot. In his private, and in his public life,
he has left nothing in his history, which can occasion
pain to his family, a blush to his friends, or regret to his
country. Fair at first, it became regularly more and
more fair unto the end. '
How enviable was his death ! Who, with such a con
fidence in the Redeemer, such a rational hope of forgive*.
ness and acceptance with God, such a delightfal testi
mony of a good conscience, that he had lived to the
glory of his Maker, and the good of his fellow men,
would be unwilling to bid adieu to this sinfitl, suffering
world ? He died on the borders of three score years and
ten. He died in the possession, of all his usefulness. He
died full of peace, and full of h€^>e; with triumphant
faith and evangelical exultation.
How copious and affecting a source of instruction is
here presented to our view ! How gracefully, and how
honourably, did he adorn those relations, out of which
grow domestic endearment, and domestic happiness!
What a blessing to his own amiable family ! How per
suasive an instructor ! How edifying an example ! How*
delightful, as well as how mournful, an object of their
remembrance ! How rich a blessing to his Country !

27
How affecting a contrast to most of those, who have
ruled mankind ! The great body of these men have
lived, bftly to gratify themselves, and to -distress theiir
fellow men. Their character has been merely that of
wild beasts, prowling for prey. Intrigue, falshood, fraud,
and violence, have debased their administration; and
pollution of every kind deformed their private Kfe. Their
career has been preceded by alarm and terror ; announ
ced by groans, -and sighs, and tears ; saddened by plun
der and beggary ; and shrouded by devastation and ruin.
It has been crimsoned with blood ; it has smoked with
slaughter ; it has been awfully illumined by the Ught of
conflagration. Their death *^has been haifed as an sera of
returning hope to mankind ; and their departing spirits
have been followed into the regions of invisible being by
the united curses of a suffering world.
The path of this illustrious Man has, on the contrary,
been a mere and delightful course of benevolence and
piety ; a shining light, shining more and more unto the
perfect day. Respect and love pursued his progress ;
joy brightened before him ; Eind sorrow at his approach
wiped her tears, and reluraed her raelancholy counte
nance with returning smiles. His mourning Country
followed his bier ; . affection and reverence surrounded
his interment, and. shed their tears on his grave. Hope
with an animated aspect, and a kindling eye, pursued his
flight into eternity ; and with unutterable emotions be
held him enter the gates of immortality.
Frora tliis illustrious example what Ruler, what Chris
tian, what Man, raay not learn wisdom and, worth?
Were every Ruler to resemble him ; the page of history
would no longer be Avritten in blood ; nor the progress
of tirae spread with sackcloth. His administration would
every where diffuse joy ; his example every where awa-

2«
ken, extend, and adom, the religion, sent down from
hekven. Were every Christian like him ; Christianity
would cease to be the object of contempt and obloquy ;
and compel by its native loveliness the veneration, and
applause, even of its enemies. Were every Man to ex
hibit the sarae character ; the world would cease to wear
any longer its gross and glooray aspect, be shorne of its
thorns and briers, and assume once more the bloom, the
fragrance, and the beauty, which once adorned the gar
den of God.
My Brethren, you have heard this imperfect exhibi
tion of the character, so beautifully displayed by the
Man, whose death has convened this assembly. The
essential excellencies of this character may be trans
planted into the life of every person present. The true
use, to be raade of this recital, is perfectly conveyed in
our Saviour's application of the parable of the good
Samaritan, " Go ye, and do likewise."

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