The central Presbyterian. [volume] (Richmond, Va.) 1856-1908, 1865-08-03
Circular Letter.
an appeal in behalf Of the Central Pres
bvterian.
RICHMOND, July 9th, 1865

RICHMOND, July Otn, 1000.
Dear Sir,-I embrace the earliest opportu-
nifty of comforting, by means of this circular
letter, with yourself and other friends con-
corning the condition and prospects of the
Central Presbyterian.
You are probably already aware that the
Office of this paper was entirely consumed by
the fire in April last, which laid in ashes SO
much of this city. Having recently ex-
pended the whole of my small means in pur-
chasing the stock of the Central Presbyterian,
and refurnishing the Office with new type, l
am absolutely unable to revive its publica-
ton, and am therefore compelled, however
reluctant, to appeal to its friends for aid.
Had this position ever been looked to as one
of personal emolument, could not consent
to receive donations, especially at time
when the resources Of SO many others are, in
the providence of God, greatly impaired.
But, in view of the fact that the income of
the paper has not been, in the past, and can
hardly be in the future, more than frugal
maintenance; and also in view of its impor-
tant public relation to the Church, am
advised by our most judicious brethren to
make this appeal without hesitation.
All the considerations for the support of
the Central Presbyterian heretofore, not only
remain in full force, but are increased tenfold
by recent events Whatever, under the in.
scrutable dealings of our Heavenly Father,
may be our political connection, the ecclesi.
astical organizations of the South are per-
fectly separated from the North And yet
recent and careful inspection of the religious
newspapers of the North, as we'll as private
letters from eminent sources, render it certain
that all Christian denominations at the South
are to be assaied by every means which may
serve to disturb, injure, and if possible,
divide them. can deliberately assure those
who have not read the proceedings of the Old
School General Assembly, that they not only
explicitly declare the purpose to extend their
jurisdiction over all the South, but also to
claim our church property, wherever any
number in a Presbytery or church, hoaoever
small, can be found adhering to them. They
are now preparing church-crusade against
our religious liberty and our peace
To shrink from firm Christian defence of
our birthright, and many other important
truths they have put in peril, would be not
only a denial of our manhood, but treason
against the cause of God. We have no
alternative. Our religious papers are more
than ever indispensable to protect our most
precious interests.
After extensive consultation, the plan
judged most advisable is to invite donations
payable the lst of December pext, unless an
earlier date is preferred. 1t is estimated
that $4,000 will be sufficient to reit the
Office, and meet, in part, other expenses
which, for few months, will be unusually
heavy; while, at the same time, the receipts
will be, for obvious reasons, unusually small.
Surely this sum can, for such purpose, be
raised with proper cooperation among those
who have found the Central Presbyterian so
often an instructive and comforting friend in
their households. There are many who could
give-as some have already done-Sl0O, or
$50, or $50. And while there are many
who could not at present we'll spare so much,
let them be assured that even single dollar,
or less, will, in this hour of need, be CRATE
fully appreciated.
Personally, my interest in this matter is
not great. OCHeT ueluS Oh ldDOT WOuiu CeI-
tainly be not less inviting. But important
public interests are involved. am willing,
as God shall give me strength, to stand here
in my lot through the troubled future, as
through the troubled past. l will faithfully
stand by the paper, if its friends will stand
by me.
As it is quite impossible for me to visit
more than small number of churches by
personal agency, am under the necessity of
requesting brethren who feel an interest in
this appeal, to present it before their congre-
cations, at as early day as practicable.
Will they be so good, either by personal at
tention, or the agency of some one appointed
by them, to inform me, as soon as convenient,
of the amount subscribed.
As soon as the paper can be sufficiently
circulated through the mails, it is my inten-
ton to resume its publication. Through the
special kindness of friend, arrangements
can be made to this end, for short time.
My reliance, however, must be upon the
scheme here presented, and which l respect
fully submit to all who regard it as worthy
of their help.
Your fellow servant,
In this day of suffering and trial,
WILLIAM BROWN.
NY. uod ooooss m hrethren in VIRGINIA