'OF THE FIRST TEN YEARS OF THE AMERICAN TRACT SOCIETY, INSTITUTED AT BOSTON, 1814. TO WHICH IS ADDED A BRIEF VIEW OF THE PRINCIPAL RELIGIOUS FORM OF A BEQUEST TO THE SOCIETY. I give unto the Treasurer, for the time being, of the American Tract Society, instituted at Boston in the year 1814, the sum of Dollars, for the purposes of said Society, and for which the receipt of such Treasurer shall be a sufficient discharge. LIBRARY. The Committee of the American Tract Society would suggest, that Donations of Books, for the purpose of forming a Library for the use of the Publishing Committee in the discharge of their appropriate duties, will be very acceptable; and will, they trust, essentially promote the objects of the Institution. Any works of general utility are desirable, particularly those upon Theological subjects, and Books of Reference. PREFACE. THE hand of Providence has been strikingly exhibited, in conducting many of the Benevolent Institutions which characterize the present age, from very small beginnings, to a state of powerful and successful operation. This remark is applicable to the American Tract Society, the origin of which may be traced to a little meeting of half a dozen individuals, assembled to enjoy the advantages of christian intercourse, and to consult upon the interests of the Redeemer's kingdom. A circumstance in itself unimportant, had suggested to one of them the thought, that a few choice Tracts, printed in large editions, might be afforded to benevolent individuals in the neighbourhood, at a much less expense, than the little books which they were frequently purchasing for gratuitious distribution. The idea was suggested to his brethren, and excited so much interest, as to be made the subject of conversation and serious reflection, which soon led to a proposition for forming a small Tract Society to put the design in execution. As the subject was contemplated, it grew in importance; and though perhaps no one, at that time, anticipated that the Society they were about to form, would extend throughout the United States, yet it was seen that the subject demanded more mature consideration, and fervent prayer to the Father of mercies for his guidance and blessing. It was but a few days, before the Constitution which still forms the bond of union to the Society, was adopted; and a subscription opened, giving each donor the privilege of receiving Tracts for gratuitious distribution, to a considerable part of the amount of the sum contributed. The plan was communicated to numerous friends; and meeting their approbation, persons were designated to |