Page:The History of the University of Pennsylvania, Wood.djvu/75

Rh and support. Both objects were secured by an engagement which he formed, in the double capacity of pupil and assistant, with Dr. Allison, who then taught a private school, with much reputation, in the province of Pennsylvania. Such was his diligence in his new station, and such the extent of his acquirements, that on application for admission to the college at Princeton, he was not only received in one of the higher classes, but was also employed as a tutor; and was thus enabled to continue his plan of improving himself, and of earning a livelihood by assisting in the improvement of others. Having obtained his degree, he devoted himself to the study of theology; and returning to Dr. Allison, now vice-provost of the college of Philadelphia, qualified himself, under his instruction, for admission into the ministry. His first connexion with the institution, over which he was ultimately called to preside, took place soon after this period. The absence of Dr. Smith in Great Britain, on the business of the college, having occasioned a temporary vacancy in the faculty, Mr. Ewing, though then only twenty-six years old, was thought qualified to supply his place in the charge of the philosophical classes. Shortly afterwards, he entered into the pastoral office as minister of the first Presbyterian congregation of Philadelphia, to which he continued attached during the remainder of his life. It was in consequence of this station that he became one of the trustees of the university, founded by the legislature upon the ruins of the college; and his elevation to the office of provost, while it was due to his attainments in learning and science, was undoubtedly facilitated by his known attachment to the principles of the revolution, and to the independence of his country. That he should have countenanced the injury done to his former friends, and even been willing to partake of their spoils, is only a proof that the best men, by the violence of party excitement, are apt to have their vision so perverted,