The Cecil Whig

From the New York Observer.

A SCENE IN A SYNOD.

It was in the Autumn of 1834 that the venerable Synod of New Jersey held its sessions in the ancient and time honoured Borough of Elizabeth— But few larger or more learned ecclesiastical bodies meet in this country. Embracing within its limits two colleges, and the principal Theological Seminary of the Church, and covering a large territory where Presbyterianism has been long established, it numbers among its members some of the ablest scholars, professors, theologians, and civilians in America. On the occasion to which we now allude it presented an imposing spectacle. There were venerable doctors in theology whose gray hairs were at once to them a crown of glory and the ornament of the Assembly—there were the president and professors of Princeton and Lafayette Colleges, with not merely an American but a European reputation there were the educated pastors of a hundred churches and elders. from the eloquent Senator, through the various grades of civil and social life. down to the plain but pious farmer.

During a momentary pause in the business of this venerable and learned body an aged and highly respected clergyman arose, stating that he wished to present a few resolutions to the consideration of the Synod. His age and well earned character obtained for him a kindly hearing. His resolutions were on the subject of Abolitionism and in its favour, and in opposition to Colonization. A few well directed remarks fell from their mover, after which he took his seat.

The Synod looked as if taken by surprise, and none seemed disposed to touch the exciting subject. The Moderator was about rising to put the motion, which would have resulted in their rejection by an overwhelming vote without a word being said, when he was arrested by the words; "Mr. Moderator," slowly but emphatically pronounced. In a moment all was breathless attention. For about half an hour the Synod hung upon the lips of the speaker. Such an exposition of abolitionism, and of the blessings of Colonization, the aged ones never heard before; nor the more youthful ones since. It was a torrent of eloquence irresistible in argument and most affectionate and winning in its spirit and manner. When he sat down enough was said. The flowing tears of many of the gray headed ones showed the emotions that possessed their souls. The Moderator waited for some time to give opportunity to others to speak, but not a word was uttered. The motion was put on the adoption of the resolutions, and the mover only voted for them; whilst the whole Synod besides voted against them. And we have never had an Abolition resolution presented to the Synod since

The mover of the resolutions was the excellent Dr. Weeks of Newark; their Opposer, WAS THEODORE FRELINGHUYSEN of the United States. And this scene in a Synod will never be forgotten by many who witnessed it.

S. Y.