That William Knibb's Life should be written was demanded by the public; that I should be the writer of it was requested by his family and friends. Their wishes were in the first instance, indeed, directed to his beloved brother and successor in the pastoral charge, Mr. Abbott, and it is to be regretted that one so long and so intimately acquainted with him, and with the sphere of his labours, should have found it necessary to decline the task. For myself, I confess that I was not unwilling to accept a call, which would at all events place me in honourable and lasting conjunction with one whom I highly revered, and which might supply to me an opportunity of performing an important service to the cause of Christ. How far I have realized this hope it will be for others to decide.