242 



David IIoberts, Esq. tlicn occupied the hour with an Mo 

 historical discourse, in which the life, deeds, and character of 

 Sir Matiieav Cradock, were principally discussed. The 

 folloAving is an abstract of his remarks : 



During the latter part of the reign of James 1st, and the 

 beginning of that of Charles 1st, (while Strafford and Laud 

 had the control of affairs in England) events transpired, whicli 

 ultimately resulted in the permanent planting of the colonies of 

 Plymouth and Massachusetts Bay. 



The arrival of the Mayflower is an epoch in history, and 

 especially in the history of this continent. 



So also may the transfer of the government of Massachusetts- 

 from London, with its charter, under Joha Winthrop, be 

 regarded as another epoch in American History. 



Both events are and ever will be memorable. The Rock of 

 Plymouth has alike inspired the pen of history and tongue of 

 the orator. The 101 persons, whO' landed at Plymouth, seeking, 

 under Brewster, an asylum in the wilderness, where they couM 

 escape from the persecution consequent upon the reformation., 

 and worship God freely, suffered as only martyrs for opinions' 

 sake and the freedom of consciencs can suffer. 



The Plymouth Landing preceded in time if not in importance 

 the transfer of the charter of Kimg Charles 1st ; which last, as 

 an historical event, has become conspicuous above most others, 

 as it has led naturally to the erection in America of an Inde- 

 pendent Republican Government. 



A survey of the circumstances attending this act, and the 

 particular instruments by which it was brought about^ cannot 

 fail to be of interest, if dealt with in a manner befitting their 

 intrinsic importance. 



Religious intolerance had driven Rev. John Robinson and 

 his followers into exile from England, first to Holland and 

 afterward a portion of them to America, 



In this country, the great plague of 1617 had so diminished 



