18-27911

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I.

Mr. Townsend's Birth, Education, and Conversion

CHAPTER II.

From his Conversion, in 1774, to his final Settlement

at Bermondsey, in 1784

CHAPTER III.

Page

1

·

12

From the latter Period to the Formation of the Deaf

and Dumb Asylum, in 1792

CHAPTER IV.

The Institution and Progress of the Deaf and Dumb

Asylum

28

37

CHAPTER V.

Formation of the London Missionary Society, &c.

54

CHAPTER VI.

Formation of the Congregational School

78

Exertions in behalf of the Irish Evangelical Society, &c. 138

Extracts from Letters, Original Essays, &c.

233

PREFACE.

CIRCUMSTANCES Over which Mr. Townsend's family had no control, have caused a delay in the publication of this Volume, which has been to them a source of pain and regret. During his last illness, Mr. Townsend intended to consign his papers to the flames, but the voice of affection pleaded for their preservation.

These pages are humble in their pretensions, like the honoured subject of them: his aim, was to improve and benefit mankind theirs, is to excite young Ministers to the same patient Industry, indefatigable Zeal,

and honourable Emulation, which marked his career. To the more private Christian, their perusal, it is hoped, will be soothing in the hour of affliction, and cheering in the prospect of death.