THE STATE OF THE COLLEGE IN 1780
The following letter, written from Hanover during the brief period in which it was known as Dresden, is among those recently received by the College. It is of interest now not only as showing the state of Dartmouth College in 1780, but because it was written by Professor Sylvanus Ripley, builder of the Olcott-Leeds house, the subject of the communications from Mr. Charles F. Bradley and Professor Colby printed elsewhere in this issue. Dresden, July 19, 1780
Reverend & Honored Sir —
Tho I have nothing very material to inform you of that may be either edifying or entertaining, yet I take a particular pleasure in expressing my acknowledgments, and respects, to a Person so venerable by age, so respectable by office, so worthy as a Man—Gentleman & Christian, so amiable and endearing as a Friend; and esteem it a privilege and a pleasure to trouble you with a line every opportunity when my health and business will possibly permit. I rejoice to hear that your important life and usefulness are still continued and that an age so advanced by the smiles of Heaven, is attended with so many favors and blessings to your People, and comfort to yourself.
Perhaps you will be desirous to know a little of our situation and prospect in this quarter. The state of the College and School in many respects is agreeable and promising,—the youth in general orderly and regular; and tho there appears to be nothing special of divine influence on their minds, yet they arcfar from being vicious—and peace and harmony reigns among them—yet we are not without our clouds nor destitute of our fears—The resources for the College you are very sensible have long been cut off from beyond the water; and the interest of the College lying so much in wild Lands, which tho a very permanent interest, yet at present can't be disposed of without great inconvenience, and contributive of but little advantage toward the support of the institution.—Our situation with regard to our political and governmental affairs still remains very unhappy and wholly unsettled,—by which means the Inhabitants live as it were almost in a state of nature, & the College has no state to grant it patronage and support.—But we have reason, notwithstanding all discouragements, to acknowledge with peculiar gratitude, that it hath had such a Patron and Friend in Heaven—and that the smiles of providence have attended it hitherto, and made it so great a blessing, in a particular to this Country.
With regard to this Country's being exposed to danger from the Enemy, I Can only just observe that affairs appear more agreeable in that respect. A Scout has, lately returned from Canada, who informs that the force in that Province is chiefly collected at Quebec where they are afraid of the arrival of a French fleet—and that they are full of consternation from that quarter as well as of an invasion from this quarter.
Your very affectionate and humble servant
Rev'd Doctor Williams—
