tion: I mean the state of the Gypsies. It is painful to
reflect how many thousands of these unhappy creatures, have, since
the light of Christianity has shone on this Island, gone into
eternity ignorant of the way of salvation, and without one cheering
thought of a Saviour. Surely, Sir, there is an awful responsibility
attached to this neglect! If we look back into the history of the
Christian church, from the earliest ages, we shall find that the
introduction of the gospel amongst any people, has generally been
effected by means of Missionaries; and so numerous are the Gypsies,
and so desultory in their habits of life, that it might well occupy
the time of more than one zealous individual, to go amongst them, and
by plain, simple, affectionate conversation and exhortation, when
practicable, instruct them in the knowledge of their Redeemer.

Nor in this favoured land, where there are so many who zealously
embrace the doctrines of Christianity, would there, I trust, be
wanting both one, or more persons, who would devote themselves to
this truly apostolic work; and benevolent individuals who would open
their hearts and their purses, for the support and encouragement of
such an undertaking. This labour of love would doubtless prove less
arduous, than the attempts which have been made to establish missions
among the American Indians; the natives of the South-Seas; or the
inhabitants of Southern Africa.

The dread of the magistracy in this country, would prove a protection
from personal injury, while the painful relinquishment of friends and
country would not be required. I will also beg leave to mention
another suggestion: I have understood that, in different parts of the
kingdom, the neighbouring clergy meet at stated times, for the
purpose of conversing on the important duties of their pastoral
office. At such times, would it not be well to take into
consideration, the perishing condition of so large a part of the
community, as that, which forms the subject of this letter? Some
plan might probably be thus devised, which, through the blessing of
the Lord, would prove effectual for the salvation of this out-cast,
and hitherto neglected people.

I would also take the liberty of recommending the cause of these
unhappy partners of our kind, to the humanity of our dissenting
br