MY DEAR FRIENDS,--You have, in the following pages, the result of a free and serious inquiry into the Scripture doctrine of Christian baptism. After reading many controversial tracts on the mode and subjects of this ordinance, I found myself obliged to examine the sacred pages before I could be thoroughly satisfied either as to the manner or time of life in which it ought to be administered. Previous to this inquiry, I endeavoured to divest myself of every prejudice, and determined to follow the truth whithersoever it might lead me. Far be it from me to assert that I have nowhere mistaken the language of the Holy Spirit in the several passages that either give an account of the administration of Christian baptism or tend to explain the nature and design of the institution; but this I hope I can say, that I have endeavoured to enter into the true meaning of them, and have explained them in a sense that appears to me (upon the maturest consideration) most consistent and scriptural. I think myself obliged to tell you, that the inquiry has afforded me abundant satisfaction. The reasons for our practice of baptising children, and that by sprinkling or pouring of water, appear to me now in a much stronger light than before; and I am more fully convinced than ever that the specious objections that are thrown out against it have no solid foundation in reason or the word of God. This is dated, Harborough, September 6th, 1770. The interval was not very long from the resignation of Mr. Addington to the settlement of Mr. Gill, as Mr. Addington's resignation is dated August 12, 1781, and Mr. Gill commenced his labours in the early part of 1782. During the interval the pulpit was supplied by neighbouring ministers, and the students from the academy at Daventry; among the latter of whom was Mr. Belsham, afterwards recognized as the champion of Socinianism. The principal candidates were Mr. Bennett, who afterwards settled at Kiderminster; Mr. Cooke, who finally settled at Halifax; and a Mr. Severn. During this state of indecision, Mr. Garner, in his travels into Yorkshire, heard of Mr. Gill, who, being highly recommended as an excellent man, was introduced to the Church at Harborough.