formed for distinguished greatness, as the children of this world understand the term; but both by nature and by grace, he was prepared for pre-eminence among the holy and the useful of all generations. His character, therefore, is well adapted to the instruction of the great body of Christ's servants, whether engaged already in the labors of the ministry or preparing for them-better adapted even, than if it had been adorned more richly with the "shining raiment" of some sons of God who have long since sunk to rest. At the same time, it is well fitted to impress all minds with a conviction of the beauty of holiness, and to stimulate the believer in every condition of life, to press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Mr. Green did not habitually preserve a record of his labors or his trials, of his conflicts or his victories over sin. The occasional memorandums of this kind, found among his papers, have been freely though not copiously used in the compilation. To a few of his early friends we are indebted for graphic sketches of his manner of life, during their acquaintance with him. And to those associated with him in childhood, or called in providence to watch over him during his last days, are we indebted for facts relative to his earliest years, and the closing scene of life. vi The occasional addresses inserted have not before been published, unless with one exception, and are fitted to answer the double purpose of developing the character of their author, and enforcing the claims of God on this revolted world. Many extracts have been inserted from the journals he preserved while in Europe in quest of health. To some readers a great proportion of the facts stated are already familiar; but they are interspersed with those spiritual reflections, and are narrated in a style of so much simplicity, that they will be reviewed with fresh interest. Many others, who may be expected to read the volume, are less familiar with the physical character, the moral and intellectual culture, and religious aspects of foreign countries, and will be gratified to meet here the views of an enlightened Christian traveller, on points of deep interest to all who look for the conversion of the world. It was not without much reflection, that the compiler determined to observe the order of time, in the whole arrangement. That order has not been departed from, except in one or two instances. Whether the arrangement be the best that could have been fallen upon, is not a question with him, though better judges may dissent from his judgment. It may be allowed him to say, in this connection, that if he is not deceived, the single design of this pub vii lication is the same, and none other, than that which riveted the eye, filled the heart, and engrossed the whole soul of its lamented subject-not wealth, nor fame-but usefulness to man and glory to God. And if it shall contribute to perpetuate the remembrance of distinguished moral worth-to inspire a holy emulation for eminence in the Christian life-to awaken a single believer to the duty of more entire self-consecration to the service of God-and especially to stir up the pure minds of any of Christ's ministers to increased activity and faithfulness in closet devotions, and in pastoral labors-its design will be accomplished, the world will be benefited, and the grace of God will be magnified. CONTENTS. His Parentage-Early Instruction-Filial Obedience-Dedication to God- At the Academy-His Decision-His Diligence-His Devotion-His Con- version-Enters College-School-Keeping-Earnestness in defence of truth-Love of Religious Meetings-Sickness-Death of his Mother- Goes to Andover-Employment of his time there-Unites with the Church- His Religious Experience-Mode of Spending Vacations-Appointment at Bowdoin College-Tact at Government and Instruction-Promptness in Reproof-Christian Fidelity-Licensed to Preach-Labors at Tops- Of a Minister's Location-His Call to Reading-His Ministry-Habits of Study-Pastoral Intercourse-Letters to an Anxious Brother-Marriage -Reorganization of Essex Street Church-Their Call to Mr. Green- Removal of Ministers-Letter of Dr. Payson-Request for Dismission His Pastoral Character-Public Services-Regard to Children-Letters to his Daughter-To G.-To the Children of the Maternal Association- Address to the Children and Friends of Union Church Sabbath Schools,. |