happiness, and who has the same interest in the welfare of society as
the great body of his fellow citizens, requests the dispassionate
attention of the reader, while he considers this important subject. He
will use no weapon but truth and truth will be regarded by all except
those who love darkness rather than light.

To exhibit a correct view of the subject, it will be proper, first, to
enquire into the present condition of Connecticut, and secondly, to
examine the various plans or projects proposed for our adoption, and
estimate the probably cost attending them. We can then in the third
place form a just opinion of the propriety of the proposed changes.

The condition of Connecticut first claims our attention.

That our climate, soil and situation are such as to insure as much
health, riches and prosperity as any people can rationally wish, seems
not to be doubted. Our natural advantages do not indeed promise such an
accumulation of wealth as might satisfy that avarice which like the
horse leach is constantly crying give--give--they are such however as
will in ordinary cases, ensure to industry an ample reward and this
should satisfy a virtuous mind.

The diffusion of knowledge is greater than in any other part of the
globe of equal dimensions. Such are the excellent provisions of our
laws, and the virtuous habits of our citizens, that schools of
instruction in all useful knowledge are to be found in every place where
they are needed. There is no village in this State which will not attest
to this fact. In various places also flourishing academies are
supported, in which the higher branches of science are taught, and our
College is at once our ornament and our pride. Religious instruction is