Why he came here.
The circumstances under which
Dr. Hoge came to
Richmond seem of moment and interest.
As he drew near the end of his course in the Theological Seminary, a little church in
Mecklenburg county signified its wish to engage him as its pastor as soon as he obtained his license.
About that time, however,
Dr. Plumer visited
Prince Edward county, and told
Dr. Hoge that he would probably be invited to
Richmond to become assistant at the First Presbyterian church.
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Dr. Hoge said that he would prefer a small country charge, at least until he gained some experience, and had composed some sermons.
Dr. Plumer requested a meeting of the faculty of the Theological Seminary, explained his wishes to the members, and sent for
Dr. Hoge.
They united in advising him to come to
Richmond if he received an invitation.
There was another small church in another county to which
Dr. Hoge had been recommended, but an influential elder opposed the call on the ground that he did not think the young minister qualified for the position.
