I had now attained a condition more eligible than my most sanguine wishes could ever have led me to anticipate. If in early life I could have enjoyed the literary advantages I now possessed, I should have thought it the height of earthly happiness. But I was now too far advanced in life to profit by the advantages I had gained. However, I was grateful, and happy. My friend William Shaw, Esq. gave me the liberty of frequenting the Atheneum. Amidst that large and valuable collection of books, I found an inexhaustible source of information and entertainment; and among other advantages, I found a few literary friends, in whose conversation I enjoyed ‘the feast of reason and the flow of soul.’ Among the many blessings I was favored with, I shall ever highly appreciate the acquaintance and friendship of the late Rev. Mr Buckminster, in whom I contemplated with admiration the rare union of intellectual, moral, and religious excellence; of a powerful mind with extensive information, and a feeling heart enlivened by devotion. He was admired for his distinguished abilities and learning by all who knew him; but the peculiar traits of benevolence, nobleness of mind, sincerity and sweetness of temper, which adorned his character, could only be duly appreciated by those who were honored with his friendship. Mr Buckminster was so kind as to give me the use of his large and valuable library, which was of great advantage to me in compiling my History of the Jews. In my efforts to complete the work, I was encouraged and animated by his participating in the interest I felt in this extraordinary people. Though entering into the details of the sufferings of the persecuted Jewish Nation, yet the enthusiasm Mr Buckminster inspired, and the pleasure of conversing with him upon a subject with which he was intimately acquainted, rendered the time I was writing my History one of the happiest periods of my life. I completed my work in 1812, a few months before his death. In the year 1812 I sustained a severe affliction, by the sudden death of Mr Buckminster. Amidst the large number who lamented his death, I believe there was none (except his near relations) who felt more distressed than myself. I desire, however, to be grateful to divine Providence for the privilege of his acquaintance and friendship.