Allyn Mather, letter, to Eleazar Wheelock, 1767 November 20
Date20 November, 1767
Call Number767620.1
abstractMather writes that he is not content at college.
handwritingHandwriting is small and slanting, yet formal and clear. The trailer is in an unknown hand.
paperSingle large sheet is in good condition, with light staining, creasing and wear. There are signs of old tape on one verso.
noteworthyAn editor, likely 19th-century, has added a note under the trailer on one verso. This note has not been included in the transcription.
Modernized Version Deletions removed; additions added in; modern spelling and capitalization added; unfamiliar abbreviations expanded.
of Duty and affection. — I would in a submissive humble
manner address you with a few Lines,— Your kindness
and Paternal care you have exercised towards me, give
me the greatest reason to think that you are always con‐
sulting my good, and happiness, and that it would be exceeding
agreeable to hear from me, every opportunity.
which I would inform you through a kind and indulgent
providence, enjoy a tolerable good state of heath, and should be
able to follow my Studies with ease and delight, if it was
not for those many errands which do almost keep me upon
continual run, for this I have been obliged to study evenings, until
my Eyes have felt the bad affects thereof.
Respecting College affairs, I believe in general are conducted
very wisely, peace and good order seems to prevail.
the president appears to be friendly, and Tutors likewise
Notwithstanding I enjoy not that contentedness of Mind which
I use to do while under your care and instruction, for my
privileges are not so great as they were then, particular
as to divinity, I am as ignorant as when I came from home
if not more so —, the president has set apart Saturday
for that purpose that we may study Divinity, I hope it will
be somewhat better, but I am afraid not, we recite the assem‐
blies shorter catechism.— It is my present thought this is not the place
to qualify a missionary for Indian service, some private School
I should think would be better for that purpose, I have some
reasons to give why, it is , if time would permit it is now
twelve o'clock at Night, I must ask liberty to subscribe
myself. —