Memoir of the life of the Rt. Rev. Alexander Viets Griswold, D.D., bishop of the Protestant Episcopal church in the Eastern diocese

Front matter

Cornell University Library BX 5995.G85S87

Memoir of the life of the Rt. Rev. Alexa

3 1924 007 862 828

Preface

This word may be defined ; that part of a book, which is always written last ; though, if read at all, it is usually read first. In olden times, it used to make no inconsiderable portion of the work, to which it belonged ; and was sometimes no contemptible volume by itself. In attempting, however, a preface to the present work, the writer finds that he has little to add for the edification of his reader. All that he had to say has been already said. The best essay on the character and life of Bishop Griswold will be found in his own recorded words and actions. These have been given with as much justice to the Bishop himself and with as little oflTence to others, as was possible. The memoir will be found valuable, chiefly as a record of character, and of the dealings of God's grace and providence ; though it is hoped that, as a small contribution to our ecclesiastical history, the book will be found not altogether valueless. Whatever its value, in this respect, may be, however, there need be little hesitation in saying, that the character of the holy man, whose life is now sent forth, and the dealings of God in the formation of that character, deserve to be had in remembrance : they cannot too deeply, too widely, or too enduringly impress themselves on the living Church of Christ.

To those, who have kindly assisted the following work, by the contribution of original letters from the Bishop, and of other valuable documents, the writer begs, in this way,

VIII PREFACE.

to express his unfeigned thanks. Many invaluable letters from the same pen have, indeed, been either lost, or withheld ; still, enough have been furnished to shew the value of the rest, and to lay the religious public under deep obligation to those, who so generously responded to the call for such contributions.

And now, nothing remains but to commit to God's favor and blessing the pages, which have been penned ; and to say that, if they do the reader as much good as they have the writer, he may well be satisfied with his work, and devoutly thank God that he has not labored in vain.