This elm-shaded park is the beautiful campus of seven or eight acres. In the background are all the buildings of the Theological Seminary, except Brechin Hall, and in front of them is the avenue of elms which makes the "Gothic window." Nothing of its kind could be more beautiful. Overhead are the interlaced branches of the lofty trees, the end of the avenue forming the exquisite window, through which extends a long vista. On either side of the mullion one has the view of a church in the distance; and in the valley of the Merrimac nestles the city of Lawrence. [Illustration: OLD STONE ACADEMY.] [Illustration: THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY.] Not far remote is "Carter's Hill," with its commanding view and unbroken quiet, and destined to become a favorite summer resort, for such as wish to enjoy some of New England's choicest scenery, to know some of its purest life, and to keep within an hour's ride of Boston. Within easy view are Monadnock, Wachusett, and other smaller mountains; the beautiful Merrimac River, with its populous valley, and the graceful, busy Shawshin, where it was said, the Devil baptized the witches,--contemptible when thought of as the object of great Boston's covetous desire, but important in its relation to the several mills upon its course, and for its contribution to the general beauty. "Indian Ridge" is one of the series of lenticular hills, which continues to the north-east as far as Portsmouth, N.H., and in an irregular course may be traced westward to the Connecticut River. [Illustration: LIEUT.-GOV. PHILLIPS.] This ridge is supposed to have been the spot of Indian encampments, and is within a tract of land now owned by the town, and intended as a park. Near it is the "Red Spring," and a mile or two north-east is "Den Rock," all of which are frequently visited by holiday bands of children, and by students in hours of recreation. The Andover records date from 1639, and the town was incorporated May 6, 1646. The story of Andover's progress from its foundation until the present, is full of interest. The town's part in all the early movements was most creditable, and full of intelligence. At the close of a century of its life we find vigilance as to the character of its growing population. The authorities believed that whatsoever a town soweth, that shall it also reap. It was therefore in vain that the "pauper immigrant" or "criminal classes" knocked for admittance. It is said that the town was "made up at the beginning of 'choice men,' 'very desirable' and 'good Christians.'"[D] [D] Historical Sketches, p. 145. [Illustration: CHAPEL, THEO. SEMINARY.] [Illustration: PUNCHARD FREE SCHOOL.] "The selectmen were empowered to examine into the character and habits of all persons seeking residence, and to admit none who were idle or immoral. ANDOVER, the 30th of January, 1719-20. _To_ MR. EBENEZER LOVEJOY, _constable_.