| Citation |
NHG-P.772.076
24 Jul 1772:21,22 (822)
From the New-London Gazette, of July 3d. [Discussion of the
writer's desire to explore New Hampshire]
Being by its situation a frontier province, during the war,
and exposed to the several ravages of the enemy, very much
prevented the settling of it; but at present what country
settles faster? I set out from Portsmouth with a curious
desire to see Wolfborough, where his Excellency the Governor
takes up some part of his residence, when I came there my
admiration was as much excited as my expectations were
disappointed.
His Excellency has erected a magnificent building on an
eminence situated by a most beautiful pond, and on a soil
vastly rich, & fertile. . . [7 lines of description] From
the Governor's seat I directed my course to the Connecticut
River; and had the curiosity to view their infant college
which has lately been severely calumniated by some, and as
extravagantly applauded by others; On that account I
endeavoured thoroughly to inform and satisfy myself; and
shall transmit nothing to the public eye, but what I also
lately know to be matter of fact. I must confess I was
prejudiced against it before; but I no sooner got acquainted
with it, than my prejudice dwindled to nothing, the original
design of it is truly noble, and benevolent, the situation
of it is very friendly to study and meditation, and very
free from company and temptation; the president appears to
be a very worthy gentlemen, a warm advocate for religion,
and a hearty friend to learning, and as the sage case of old
sat, and gave his little Senate laws; so methought the
president sat in the evening dispensing the most paternal
admonitions, and useful instructions to his attentive
students.--The artless obliging behaviour of the youth
recommended them highly to my esteem, as well as the great
harmony that subsists among them.--Almost every one wears a
serious, and a studious brow; I was very much enamoured with
their musick, in which they are excellent proficient;--I
rejoice to find the province so well affected towards that
young seminary of learning. It stands in great need of
assistance; but I know that generous province will never
neglect it; they can't neglect it; but will provide for it
according to their abilities. It is their child and a very
promising one too, they can't reject its solicitations, when
it stands with its arms spread, and pleads like a little
infant to indulgent parents, for assistance, with tears of
artless innocence. . .
I am not party man; but a citizen of the world; I heartily
wish all the prosperity of all the colleges and provinces of
New England, from the present flourishing of the colleges,
it seems as if science was growing up in America, to its
grand climactrick.
O that we might become a holy, and happy people.
[signed] Viator
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