The Portraiture of a Christian Gentleman

but those intentions soon expanded into various larger undertakings, till, at length, they settled down into a resolution to obtrude upon the public the sketch of a "Christian Gentleman," as he presents himself under the various aspects of duty and demeanour proper to the purest conception of that character. Whether I have or have not drawn and coloured the picture correctly, no one is more competent to judge than yourself. I have endeavoured to portray a man worthy of being introduced to the honour of your acquaintance, and have, therefore, kept as close as I could to your own views of spiritual and moral excellence.

So far as my humble purpose shall appear to have been usefully executed, I am sure it will have the advantage of your countenance and approbation, and I desire no success for it on any other grounds. If, by the favour e counsel to some of my countrymen, who template the qualifications of a gentleman, ough the medium of perverted sentiment, I the prejudices which naturally and nost necessarily result from a prevalent tem of false education,-if I shall be sucsful in bringing over a few to better judgnt, in a matter which so greatly concerns e well-being of society, I shall consider my ght performance as superabundantly rearded.

I am, my dear madam, with the highest nse of what I owe to you, as one of a comunity so benefited by your labours, and for ng continued personal kindness,

Your affectionate friend and servant,

W. R.

Clapham, Feb. 1829.