at the returne of our Magistrates when I vnderstood the gratious and desired successe of ther indeavor: And by the ioynt relation of them all, not only your christian readines, but enlarged faythfullnes in an especiall manner to promote so good a work:2 Though the appearance of flattery (If I know my self and be knowne to you) be not only crosse to my conscience but to my disposition, yet my heart would not suffer me, but as vnfeynedly to acknowledge the Lords goodnes, so affectionately to remember your candid, and cordiall cariage in a matter 402of so great consequence: Laboring by your spetiall prudence to settle a foundation of safety and prosperity in succeeding ages: A work which will be found not only for your comfort, but for your crowne at the great day of your account. Its the greatest good, that can befall a man in this world, to be an instrument vnder God to do a great deale of good: To be the repayrer of the breach, was of ould counted matter of highest prayse and acceptance with God and man: much more to be a meanes not only to mayntayne peace and truth in your dayes, but to leave both, as a Legacy to those that come after, vntill the coming of the Sonne of God in the clouds.

I know my place and I would not abuse your patience or hynder greater imployments, my ayme is nakedly this: To be in the number, and to have my voice with those, that whyle your self and your faythfull Assistants, (as Zerubbabell and his fellow helpers) be laying the first stone of the foundation of this combynation of peace, I may crye grace grace to your indeavors: And by presenting the worth and acceptablenes of the work before you, to strengthen your hands, and encorage your hearts to proceed on with blessing and successe: Goe on therefore (worthy Sir) and be ever enlarged in such worthy services, and the God of truth and peace will ever be with you: which he desires dayly to begg: who desires to be: yours in all due respect