here presented to the public; some valuable private documents having been unfortunately lost. Other materials were derived from certain papers and memoranda referred to in the Memoirs, from the more public events of Dr. Buchanan's life, and from his printed works. In the use of these various materials, relating to many different persons, events, and circumstances, the Author cannot flatter himself that he has been invariably accurate. He can only say, that upon every occasion this has been his intention and aim. One part of the following Memoirs will, it is presumed, be read with considerable interest, that which relates to the institution, progress, and effects of the College of Fort William in Bengal; in the establishment, conduct, and superintendence of which Dr. Bu chanan was intimately concerned during the period of its most extensive and effective operation. The proceedings of this Institution are, it is believed, but little known in England, and deserve particular attention at the present moment.b The account also of the journey of Dr. Buchanan to the coast of Malabar, and of his visit to the Syrian churches in the interior of Travancore, notwithstand It is remarkable, that Professor Malthus, in stating as one of the principal reasons for the preference due to the East India Company's College in England, its superior adaptation to preserve regularity in the conduct, and economy in the personal expenses of the students, seems not to have been aware, that these were the very points in which the college of Fort William, during its first four years, peculiarly excelled. It is but just to the latter institution, that its original merits in both these important respects should be generally known. See pp. 184-186, and 231-232, of this volume. ing his own introduction of it to the public, will probably prove acceptable to the reader. More might easily have been added to this, and indeed to every part of the Memoirs; but it may, perhaps, be thought by some that they have already exceeded their just limits. It may not be unnecessary to observe, that this volume contains the history of a man, whose leading characteristic was a sincere and devoted attachment to the Gospel of Christ, as a living principle of faith and practice. While, therefore, it is hoped, that those whose sentiments are substantially similar will derive peculiar gratification from the perusal of the following Memoirs, they may tend, as far as others are concerned, both to explain the nature of those principles, and to illustrate and recommend their excellence and value. Whatever is worthy either of being admired or imitated, and there is much which is deserving of both in the character of Dr. Buchanan, is chiefly to be ascribed to his views and feelings as a Christian; and though, as the Author himself would avow, it is by no means necessary to coincide in every opinion expressed by Dr. Buchanan in this volume, he is deeply persua ded, that the leading principles of his life and conduct are alone capable of producing genuine and exalted virtue, peace of conscience, and a well-grounded hope of eternal happiness. With respect to his own undertaking, the Author has only to state, that he engaged in it at the request of the family and friends of Dr. Buchanan. They were, doubtless, induced to place this task in his hands from the circumstance of his having some years since had occasion to consider the great subject to which the life of that excellent man was devoted, which led to a subsequent acquaintance with him. And though he has to regret that his intercourse with Dr. Buchanan was less frequent and intimate than he wished, it tended greatly to increase that lively interest in his character, which the previous knowledge of his history had excited. He felt also that he owed a debt of gratitude and service to his memory, which he was anxious to have an opportunity of discharging; and however inadequately he may have acquitted himself of this obligation, he trusts that his intention will be approved; and that the following work, thus designed to record the excellencies of a benefactor and a friend, to adopt the affectionate apology of a Roman biographer, "Pro- v ❝fessione pietatis aut laudatus erit, aut excusatus."" The Author cannot close this Preface, without shortly adverting to the subject which is so frequently brought under review in the following Memoirs, the promotion of Christianity in the East. Much as Dr. Buchanan was permitted to effect towards that great and important work, much yet remains to be accomplished. The foundation of our Episcopal Establishment has indeed been laid in India; but it requires to be strengthened and enlarged, and a more goodly and majestic superstructure to be erected upon it. Churches are still wanting at the different European stations, and a considerable increase in the number of chaplains. The translation of the Scriptures, and of useful tracts, into the oriental languages should be encouraged and pursued. Schools should be instituted for the instruction of the young, more particularly in the knowledge of the English language; and the native Christ e Tac. in vit. Agric. R ians, instead of being, as hitherto, neglected, and even repressed, should be accredited and supported. These are but brief and imperfect suggestions, which it must be left to others, better qualified for the task, to expand and realize. The Author would only, therefore, add, that it is for those who survive the lamented subject of this volume, and who deeply feel the value of his various labours, to study to repair his loss, to rescue from neglect or failure the plans which he conceived, and to continue that which he so successfully began. In the mean time, may the following record of his pious and disinterested exertions excite the zeal and strengthen the resolution of others to follow him in his benevolent career; and prove, under that Divine blessing which its Author fervently implores, in some degree, the means of confirming and extending the kingdom of Christ, not only in India, but throughout the world at large. St. Giles's, Oxford, March 8, 1817. CONTENTS. Early life and education of Mr. Buchanan in Scotland. His journey to England. Employment in the law, and serious CHAP. II. Mr. Buchanan's wish to enter the Church. His introduction CHAP. III. Commencement of Mr. Buchanan's residence at Cambridge. Mr. Buchanan's voyage to India. His arrival at Calcutta |