_Brethren_:--

After having enjoyed so many years of pastoral connection with the
Second Universalist Society in this city, and having served the same
so long a time with constant solicitude for their spiritual
prosperity and with a consciousness of my many imperfections, I find
that words are insufficient to express the satisfaction I feel on
the reception of the unanimous vote of the Society expressive of
their approbation of my services, as pastor, and their prayers for
my happiness in my present position as senior. You will, brethren,
accept my thanks for the acceptable manner in which you have
communicated the vote of the Society to me, and assure the Society
of my fervent prayer for their spiritual prosperity under their
junior pastor.

In the bonds of the Gospel,

HOSEA BALLOU.

At the annual meeting in 1847, the Standing Committee were directed to
invite Father Ballou to sit for his portrait, and that the same, when
finished, be placed in Murray Hall. This work was successfully executed,
and Father Ballou expressed himself highly complimented by the action of
the Society in regard to it.

Early in 1848, the Society were called together to act upon the
following letter from Brother Chapin.

Boston, Feb. 5, 1848.