Note 142 — Chapter XI · YEARS OF TRUCE.

“Although the practice of it” (half-way covenant) “did not begin here” (New London) “until Mr. Saltonstall’s pastorate, yet it was in the air, was practiced by most of the leading churches in the Colony. But when the pastorate of Mr. Saltonstall began, we find that the new way had gained a foothold. It was known as the Presbyterian way. It was the system of all national churches, ... all persons of good moral character living within the parochial bounds were to have, as in England and Scotland, the privilege of baptism for their children and access to the Lord’s table. (Ecc. His. of Conn., pp. 28, 29.) It is to be understood that this refers to persons who laid no claims to regenerate character. There was no awakening in this church” (New London Congregational) “nor indeed in N. Eng. worth mentioning before 1748—effect on this church may be seen in the fact that during the first half century of its existence not over 200 members were received and a full century of its life passed without a religious awakening.”—From History of First Congregational Church of New London, by Rev. Mr. Blake.