6
intervals, and has restricted the disquisition to narrower limits than it deserved. More could be readily suggested, and the principles and inferences might have been advanced and urged with greater precision and energy. Yet the truth is established by sufficient arguments. A matrimonial connection with a sister in law, whether the wife of a deceased brother, or the sister of a deceased wife, which last is here more particularly the object of inquiry, is proved to be incestuous; not merely an approach to incest, or a slight species of that abominable crime; but gross incest of the highest grade; a prohibited connection in the nearest collateral degree. — The Documents annexed, will give ample information respecting the rules and canons of the Church.
This Dissertation, perhaps the last pledge of my love and attachment to the Church, is now, with great respect and sincere affection, presented to the General Synod. It earnestly solicits the approbation and patronage of the respective members; and confidently anticipates beneficial, seasonable and permanent consequences.
If, without presumption, the words of an aged Apostle might be adopted, I would humbly say: "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in the truth." If those who heretofore cordially united with me, many have entered into rest, their eyes are closed to this world, and the
