I replied to the above; but, as it had a reference exclusively to our personal intercourse, it had no place in this public letter. The answer will show that mine was acceptable, and that I said nothing but what I felt toward Mr. Robinson, who had, from the beginning, been my main support. That he had adopted a new course of action was evident; and the next letter I give will unfold his views more fully than anything which could be said by me. I hesitate in giving this letter. It contains so many complimentary epithets, that it seems like vanity in me, producing it; but let the reader bear in mind that Mr. Robinson knew he was administering a very bitter pill, and it was wise to sugar it as thick as possible, so that it might be swallowed, and become effectual. I have tried various ways of changing these flattering phrases, but the letter would not have its worth to alter it. A happy thought has struck me. The petition to Presbytery being written by Robinson also, and, as it may be presumed to be pure truth, I advise the reader of the letter, when he feels a little sickish, just to take a snuff of the petition, and it will restore him.

Mark well the principles here unfolded, and the course which I am advised to follow.

Elmira, January 2, 1860

Rev. D. Murdoch:

Dear Brother,

--Your very kind and friendly letter was received on Wednesday. The views set forth therein upon certain points seem to demand an explanation; so, as politicians say, I beg leave to define my position, though I must do it briefly, and in haste.

That I have long been your steadfast friend, as you say, is nothing but truth, without exaggeration; but to the suspicion that I am taking the other side, or that I am less friendly than ever, I beg leave to demur. I cherish the same strong attachment to you and your family that I ever did; I admire your talents, your preaching, and your indomitable energy, as profoundly as ever, and the thought that I must yield, and give up my Pastor, gives me excessive pain. I shall defend, as ardently as I know how, your character and good name from aspersion from any quarter, until I see, what I never expect to see, a good cause for withholding my defense.