HomeMy WebLinkAbout669 Letter, Rev. A. Williams to a Lexington committee regarding the dissolution of his contract with the town, September 4, 1815Gentlemen of the Committee,
I have received thro' you the
proposition of the town, voted this day, for a dissolution of my
ministerial relation to them. I beg thro' you to communicate
to them my reply. In few words I must say to the town that
I do not think their offer equal to what justice demands on
my part. I cannot therefore accept their proposal.
A proposition will be expected from me. I have asked
advice on this subject of judicious men of other towns.
The least sum that any one has mentioned, as what
would be honourably for the town and just to me, is one
year's sallary. This opinion has coincided with my own.
I therefore propose to the town that if they will give me
one year's sallary, I will release them from the contract
consumated at my ordination.
It is proper, Gentlemen, that in discussing this
subject the town should call to mind the expences they
have borne. They aught also to remember what I have
expended. I have expended my health and my life. It was
my labors for the good of this people; my studies, my preaching
my praying, my visiting their sick, their afflicted, their poor &c.
which brought upon me those complaints that have reduced
me to my present situation, and that, in all probability, will
sooner or later bring me to my grave.
With great affection I am, Gentlemen,
Your's and the town's Most Obedient Servant
A. Williams
Lexington Sept. 4th 1815.