"Water baptism and the Lord's Supper are the two main ordinances of the new dispensation. I think there was no such practice as either of these among the Jews previous to John, who came to prepare the way for the Messiah. At least, the Scriptures make no mention of any such practice under the law. Baptism was first practised by John, was subsequently sanctioned by the precepts and example of God's holy Son; and since it is comprehended in his Commission to the Apostles, it must continue to be as lastingly and as extensively observed as the Gospel itself. It is no more local or temporary than the mission which contains it. The Supper also was first introduced by the Saviour on the night in which he was betrayed, and even after his resurrection he sanctioned it by appearing at the head of the table. It is very evident that the custom was continued among the disciples, and shall we say that the Apostles and the ancient Christians generally were under the delusion of the devil in coming together on the first day of the week to preach and to break bread? If not, where is the impropriety of our following the Apostles in this thing? Are they and the holy Scriptures our example, or are we to be governed by imagination? My dear brother, what can be your motive in this great stir? Do you think your labor on this subject essential to the conversion of souls? Or is it possible that pride and vanity have joined to induce you to become the author of something new, to be at the head of a party? My charity forbids me to think this. I hope for better things. As a gentleman of science, as a Gospel minister, you have entered upon the very responsible stage of public life. Your station is high, your position is critical, and it becomes you to walk gently before the Lord. This is a time in which we should pray fervently, think soberly, and act with deliberation. We should write the words of God with carefulness. Br. Millard informs me that you intend to publish a work on this subject. Allow me to advise you to be cautious, as an error once sent forth to the reading world can only with great difficulty be recalled. A blunder at the commencement of one's public life may cause perpetual injury. I advise you to lay your views before some enlightened council, or to correspond with able ministers on the subject. If you have a _true_ light, others can see it; if not, you will be assisted in season by the wisdom of others."