wo of the learned
professions. It follows, as a matter of course, that you will now be
addressed by one from the third, the most important and most respected
of all. I am happy to introduce to you the Rev. Dr. NEALE, the oldest
settled pastor of the city of Boston. [Applause.]

SPEECH OF THE REV. ROLLIN H. NEALE, D.D.

I do not intend, my friends, to trespass much upon your time, and
certainly shall not presume to give any new information on the subject
which has been presented. Owing, probably, to my long residence here, it
has been thought, I suppose, that my _testimony_, in these days of
calling for witnesses, may be of some importance. Of the financial
bearings of this proposed enterprise, of course I cannot judge. These
are to be considered and acted upon by men on whom the public
responsibility rests, who will, doubtless, act considerately and wisely;
but the desirableness of the thing itself is unquestionable. I have had
opportunity, with some gentlemen here present, of wandering of a
summer's day through the beautiful and extensive parks of Europe and of
this country, and know how welcome and refreshing they are to the weary
traveller. "Boston Common," of course, we praise everywhere; and when
abroad, and thinking of dear home, say there is nothing like it the
world over.

It is a good feature in the character of Bostonians to love their own
city. There is something delightful in its old buildings, and even its
crooked streets. We forget political and even religious differences in
view of ancient landmarks. We cling to the Old South, and would gladly
have kept Brattle Square with its cannon-ball, whatever might have been
thought of its theology. We cherish the memory of our fathers, and wish
to keep among us, as far as possible, signs of the good old days. This
is right and noble; but equally right, and quite as unselfish, is it to
think of those who shall come after us. HORACE BUSHNELL was a scholar,
and wrote many elaborate works on metaphysics and divinity; but the
Bushnell Park of Hartford will probably be that for which coming
generations will thank him most. Certainly it will keep his memory
fragrant and green forever.

Our good city is justly famous for its hospitals and physicians, as well
as its churches and clergymen. I hope the contemplated parks may not
supersede the sanctuary and the sermon, though, as they say, there are
"sermons in stones, and good in every thing." But certain it is, t