The honour confered on me by the Managers of the American Bible Society in placing me at the head of that institution was very sensibly felt;1 & the reluctance with which I accepted the office of the President, arose solely from the apprehension, that the state of my health would disqualify me from fulfilling its duties in a manner satisfactory, either to my self or others.

It is to me a source of regret that it has not been in my power to take a larger share in the pleasing labours of the Society. My infirmities have latterly so much increased, as to disable me from discharging any of the duties of the station in which I am placed.2

Under these Circumstances, a sense of duty, forbids me to deprive the Society of those services, which it has a right to expect from its presiding Officer; & I therefore beg the favour of you, to inform the Managers of my resignation.

On retiring from the situation I have hitherto filled, I cannot refrain from bearing my testimony to the zeal fidelity & ability with which the various & important concerns of the Socy. have been conducted; nor from expressing my fervent prayers, that Providence will graciously continue to favour an Institution so honourable & beneficial to our Country, & so congenial with the spirit & obligations of the religion we profess. I am dear Sir with great esteem & regard Your Obdt: Servt: