[Edward Manning Ruttenber (1872)] charter. Subsequent investigation having proved that the loca tion of a minister among them could be greatly promoted by availing themselves of the aid of the Society for the Propaga tion of the Gospel in Foreign Parts, and that the prospect of improving the condition of the Mahicans by direct association was better than through the intercourse had with them at the forts, where missionaries had been stationed, it was determined to make application to that society for a missionary. The application was granted, but on condition that the consent of the Mahicans should be first obtained. A committee accord ingly visited them at Westenhuck in July, 1734. The relations existing between the Mahicans and the Massachusetts govern ment being intimate and friendly — Konapot, the Mahican chief, having been commissioned captain, by Governor Belcher, and Umpachenee, his subordinate, made a lieutenant, in the colonial service — this consent was readily obtained. In September fol lowing, the Rev. John Sergeant was appointed to the mission and entered upon its duties in October.