The tenor of my life at this time was very monotonous. It was enlivened, however, by gleams of happiness, from the society of a few friends, and the pleasure I derived from literary pursuits; and, by my convictions of the truth of that religion, to the examination of which I had devoted so much of my time. My eyes still continued very weak, and I wrote under the apprehension of being reduced to a state that would preclude all application to study. A considerable part of my History of New England being now disposed of, my only resource appeared to be to abridge that work for the use of schools. The profit I hoped to derive from this compilation seemed to me to constitute all I had to depend upon in future, if my life should be spared. While I entertained these hopes, in which I was made sanguine by my knowledge of the success with which books for schools had been printed, can it be a subject of blame, or reproach, to a person in my situation, that I felt extremely grieved, and hurt, when I found my design anticipated by a reverend gentleman, whose calling, and indefatigable industry, are highly respectable? The difference between us was left to referees, who sustained a high reputation for ability, and sound judgment, extensive information, and moral excellence. I was satisfied with their decision. But I was reduced to the painful task of writing on the subject; for, though I took this measure with extreme reluctance, my opponent left me no other alternative. I sincerely hope the painful affair may never be recalled to his prejudice. CHAPTER IV. Notwithstanding the little profit, and various discouragements I had experienced in writing for the press, as I was entirely dependent upon my own exertions for a support, I was resolved to persevere. I had now acquired a number of valuable friends, to whose generous exertions in my favor I was deeply indebted. By several of them, I was enabled to put my abridgment of the History of New England to the press. I was however unfortunate in this, as well as my other compilations. The printer failed while it was in the press, which deprived me of the profit I expected to derive from it. Two years afterwards, I published a new edition. A similar misfortune befel me in this second attempt to avail myself of my labors. But though my productions were far from being profitable, and I had frequent interruptions in my studies from ill health, and bad eyes, I still had my share of enjoyment. I hoped my works might be useful, and I was highly gratified by their candid reception by the public.