ing encouraged and
moved thereto by him, I am now emboldened, without any other apology
for myself than that which the nature of the case itself carries in
its very front, to solicit your Lordship's favorable notice of, and
friendship towards, a feeble attempt to save the swarms of Indian
natives in this land from final and eternal ruin, which must
unavoidably be the issue of those poor, miserable creatures, unless
God shall mercifully interpose with His blessing upon endeavors to
prevent it.

"The Indian Charity School, under my care (a narrative of which,
herewith transmitted, humbly begs your Lordship's acceptance), has
met with such approbation and encouragement from gentlemen of
character and ability, at home and abroad, and such has been the
success of endeavors hitherto used therein, as persuade us more and
more that it is of God, and a device and plan which, under his
blessing, has a greater probability of success than any that has yet
been attempted. By the blessing and continual care of heaven, it has
lived, and does still live and flourish, without any other fund
appropriated to its support than that great one, in the hands of Him,
whose the earth is, and the fullness thereof.

"And I trust there is no need to mention any other considerations to
prove your Lordship's compassions, or invite your liberality on this
occasion, than those which their piteous and perishing case does of
itself suggest, when once your Lordship shall be well satisfied of a
proper and probable way to manifest and express the same with success.
Which I do with the utmost cheerfulness submit to your Lordship,
believing your determination therein to be under the direction of Him
who does all things well. And, if the nature and importance of the
case be not esteemed sufficient excuse for the freedom and boldness I
have assumed, I must rely upon your Lordship's innate goodness to
pardon him who is, with the greatest duty and esteem, my lord,

"Your Lordship's most obedient,
"And most humble servant,
"Eleazar Wheelock."

It is interesting to observe here the agency of Mr. Wheelock's old and
intimate friend, Whitefield. As early as 1760, after alluding to
efforts in his behalf in Great Britain, he wrote to Mr. Wheelock:

"Had I a converted Indian scholar, that could preach and pray in
English, something might be done to purpose."

After much deliberation, Mr. Wheelock determined to send Mr. Occom and
Rev. Nathaniel Whitak