"that all these propositions may be considered as so many Christian aphorisms: and we have treated them as containing matters of the highest import to the moral nature, excellence, and dignity of every human being: compared with which, all the possible acquisitions of literature, wealth, and fame, and all the most refined enjoyments of time and sense, are, according to the doctrine of just proportion, and in our scale, lighter than a shule.” "With the feeble hand of an intellectual infant, we have ventured to light our glimmering taper at the sun of truth, righteousness, and glory: and should we be so happy as to conduct one benighted traveller, who is feeling his way through all the gloom and darkness of scepticism and infidetity, which, at this moment, are clouding our hemisphere, the hours of sober recollection which have been devoted to this service, will not be lost; nor shall we have lived entirely useless. incumberers of the soil we tread, and the elime we breathe." Whilst we express, in the highest terms, our commendation of the work before us, we discover what we think to be defects. An excess of modesty in the author, ercasions too many apologies; and a conviction of the treḥ and the import ance of what he asserts, sometimes beways him into a mode of expression which has the air of dogmatism. Latin and Greek phrases, on which the sense of a sentence entirely depends, very frequently ocenr. They express the idea intended with spirit and elegance; and the readers to whom they ave familiar, will relish them as peculiarly appropriate; but those who cannot interpret them, will feel a painful disappointment; for their sakes, therefore, we wish that a translation had been given. The treatise abounds with excellent quotations, both in poetry and prose; and we are persuaded that it would have added to the gratification of many, if our author had more generally referred to the writings from which they are extracted. His readers caunot fail to admire them; and if it happen that they have not seen them before, or that they do not recollect where they. first met with them, they will naturally long to know their original, for the very same reason as they will wish to be informed of the person to whom they are indebted for the "Temple of Truth." Scripture for immediate consultation, we should have recommended the quotation of these passages; especially because we fear that many readers wit proceed without consulting them at all; and because others would have felt it more convenient to read them in the body of the work. It is but just to remark, that the anthor apologizes for each of the parti culars to which we have adverted, and offers his reasons for adopting what he suspected would be objectionable to some; but we cannot admit the force of his arguments. We hope, however, that the " Temple of Truth" will prove a very popular work, and the author or publisher will be encouraged to print a cheap edition, in order to its more general circulation. Christian Love, with its correspondent Duties and Advantages. A Sermon. By J. Raban, of Wallingford, Evo, 13. The multitude of single Sermons conit impossible to notice them, except tinually issuing from the press, renders where something particular in the subject, occasion, or composition, attracts our notice. Mr. R.'s subject certainly claims the first rank in excellence and cellent advice, if“ tried in the balances importance; and the weight of his exof the sanctuary," would certainly turn the beam in his favour, against volumes of elegant declamation or critical enquiry. Love is, indeed, the fulfilling, both of the law and the gospel; and it is here so judiciously diversified to fill all the departments of the Christian life, and recommended on principles so truly evangelical, that, independent of its literary merits (which are far from contemptible for a young author) we wish it an extensive circulation: and in particular that some benevolent persons would endeavour to cirenlate a few of them in every congregation where bitter spirits inject principles of discontent, division, and separation, under the pretence of super-evangelical doctrines, to the great injury of religion, and the dis tress of those who speak the truth in love. The Case of those most forlorn and unhappy of Beings, called Prostitutes, considered; and recommended to the Pity, the Benevolence, and the active Zeal of Chrstians. 8vo, 6d. We hope this benevolent and wellwritten Address will assist in awaken Instead of teferring to passages of ing the public mind fully to this most REVIEW OF RELIGIOUS PUBLICATIONS. mportant subject. It is accompanied the church expresses in the state of the Four Sermons, preached in London, at THE first sermon, entitled "The Having stated these topics, Mr. C. This sermon is chiefly expository; The subject of the second sermon, Heathen. Feeling a proper concern The topics are very suitable to the serves, voyages Recommending the cause of Missions, Mr. B. justly and forcibly ob66 Of all the benevolent institutions for which this country is deservedly celebrated, the Missionary Cause is the first: it is the most disinterested; it aims at the highest welfare of man; it comprehends the largest number to be benefitted; and therefore, it merits our warmest support. If, from this day, it were to sink never more to rise, notwithstanding the which have been made, the monies which have been expended, and the blood of our dear brethren which has been spilt, what soul who loves our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity, would not rejoice that God has had that interest in the hearts of his people, which has prompted them to make so many sacrifices for his honour and the happinness of the perishing Heathen? But can the Missionary Cause sink! Impossible! Behold, the foundation on which it rests, an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things and sure. This brings me, IV, To shew, that God's covenant secures success to his This is argued from its nature, the design of its author, the promises made to the Redeemer respecting the Heathen, and the character he sustains as a Priest upon his throne. church in undertaking missions." [To be continued.] A Recent Instance of the Lord's Goodness to Children, exemplified in the Happy Death of Js. Steven, Camberwell, near London. Pr. 3d.—fine, 6d. THE dear child, of whom this is a 'memorial, was the subject of most peculiar affliction of body, which terminated in his death, March 8, 1806, when he was only eight years and eight months old. He appears to have had deep convictions of sin, a conscience remarkably tender, and a strong affectionate regard to the blessed Jesus, as the compassionate Friend of sinners. His sufferings were uncommonly severe; but his patience was no less peculiar, for, during many months of violent pain, he was scarcely ever heard to complain. This little work is prefaced and recommended by the Rev. Mr. Campbell (author of Worlds Displayed) who says of this Memoir, "It is the power of grace exemplified in a little boy. His breathings after holiness, the simplicity of his dependence on the Saviour, his godly jealousy over himself, the tenderness of his conscience, and his attachment to the Scriptures, are things in him which I desire to imitate. What an honour to have such a child! What a reward to carly, persevering, and conscientious attention to the instruction of those in the dawn of life !" We heartily concur with the editor in recommending this Memoir both to parents and to children. LITERARY NOTICES. A Volume of Sermons by Mr. Fuller, is preparing for the press. Mr. Bogue, of Gosport, and Mr. Bennett, of Romsey, are preparing a History of Dissenters, from the RevoIution to the present Time: to be published by subscription. Mr. Meldrum, of Hatherlow, has issued Proposals for publishing by subscription a volume of Discourses on the Incarnation of our Lord; which are completely written, and preparing for the press. SELECT LIST OF RELIGIOUS PUBLICATIONS. Memoirs of the Life and Writings of Dr. Isaac Watts, with Extracts from his Correspondence, and a Fine Portrait by Ridley. 8vo, 2s. 6d.; Royal, 35. 6d. The same, with the Sermons and Practical Works of Dr. Watts. Three thick vols. 8vo, 11. 125.; fine royal, extra boards, 21. Sermons on interesting and important Subjects. By the Rev. J. Wright, A. M. Cumberland. 8vo, 59. Vol. III, of the Evangelical Preacher: a Select Collection of Doctrinal and Practical Sermons, chiefly by English Divines of the 18th Century. In three vols. 12mo, each 48. The Christian Officer's complete Armour. By Col. Burn. Second Edit, 12mo, boards, 4s. The Cottage Library, Vol. II, sewed, 28.; bound, 2s. 6d. The Second Report of the British and Foreign Bible Society, 8vo, 1s. 6d. The Complete Works of Josephus, translated by W. Whiston, A. M. New Edit. four vols. 8vo, L. 108. bds. A Bp. Hall's Complete Works, Vol. V; containing 43 Sermons. Demy 8vo, boards, 8s.; Royal, 12s. Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress, in Two Parts; abridged for the Use of Sunday Schools, by the Rev. J. Townsend. 18mo, 2s. or One Guinea per dozen. Buck's Theological Dictionary. A New Edit. improved, in two vols. 8vo, 20s. boards. Buck's Anecdotes, Vol. II. Second Edit. improved, 3s. 6d. boards. Dissertations on Man, Philosophi cal, Physiological, and Political: in Answer to Mr. Malthus's Essay on the Principle of Population. By T. Jarrold, M. D. 8vo, 10s. 6d. boards. A Letter to the Associate Congre gations, by Onesiphorus, Member of the Christian Communion, Suity Chapel, 12m0, 6d. Hymns, by the late Rev. J. Grigg. 12mo, 6d. Friendly Hints (on Card Papers) against Swearing, Lying, Lewd Conversation, Sabbath-Breaking, and on other Subjects, 28. per 100, sorted. RELIGIOUS INTELLIGENCE, MISSIONARY SOCIETY. SEVERAL Letters have lately been received by the Directors of the Missionary Society from the east; all which are of an encouraging nature. Letters from the Rev. Mr. Vos, dated Point de Galle, in the island of Columbo, September 12, 1805, and January 27 and 30, 1806, say, It appears that vast numbers of persons, who call themselves Christians, because they have been baptized, are in reality Heathens, totally unacquainted with the principles of the gospel, and worshippers of the idol called Buddah. The Missionaries Erhardt and Read are still engaged in learning the language of the natives, that they may be able to preach among them the unsearchable riches of Christ. Mr. Read has also preached on the Sunday evenings to the English soldiers. The number of Dutch on the island is considerably diminished. Mr. Vos preaches in Dutch; but greatly laments, that when he walks abroad, and meets with hundreds of the natives, he is unable to speak a word to them in their own tongue. By the desire of the Governor, he was about to re move to Colasibo. Letters from Dr. Taylor and Mr. Loveless, dated Madras, Feb. 10, 1806, are also received. Mr. Loveless continues for the present at Madras; he has preached for some time in the Black Town, with approbation and the appearance of success. Dr. Taylor intended to set out in about a fortnight for Bombay and Surat, by land, taking Seringapatam in his way. Dr. Taylor bad paid a visit to the Baptist Missionaries at Serampore; of whom he speaks in the most affectionate terms. Dr. Taylor speaks of the Missionary field in the east as most extensive indeed; and says, that there is room for the labours of 1000 Missionaries for every one already employed. "Having seen this country,” he says, "nothing surprises me so much as that so very few come forward to be Missionaries to the Heathen: it certainly must proceed in some measure from ignorance of their wretched state. Reading is too imperfect a mode of gaining an acquaintance with it: they must see before they can properly feel. I wish, therefore, one or two hundred zealous and pious ministers from England were sent out, that they might see what need there is for their labours: 1 am sure that then, if they retain a spark of love to God or humanity to man, they will wever think of returning again to Great Britain." The Directors have also received the Journal of Messrs. Cran and Des granges, at Vizagapatam, from October 1 to December 31, 1805; which is very pleasing and interesting. They continue preaching in the fort to the English; and are proceeding rapidly in the attainment of the Telinga language, with which they are much delighted: they judge it is one of the finest and most copious of the dialects in India, and bears a strong resemblance to its parent, the Shanse Kreet. The Bramins frequently visit them, and converse freely. One of them told the Missionaries, that the Gentoo religion was of divine origin as well as the Christian,—that Heaven was like a palace which has many doors, at which people may eater, • that variety is pleasing to God, &c. Some of the braming appear to be afraid of the Missionaries, as it is written in some of their sacred books, that all the people will become one caste. "We have been," say the Missionaries, "just one year in India; and it has been truly one of the most remarkable of our lives. The Lord hath done great things for us! We are now able to read and write, and, with a little help, to translate the language. We trust the Directors of the Society will not forget us, nor the poor Heathens around us." On the whole, the late dispatches have been very encouraging. The Missionaries have displayed much zeal, prudence, and perseverance; and there is reason to conclude, that a wide and effectual door is opening in the east for the admission of the everlasting gospel. CATHOLIC MISSION The following intelligence, which is translated from the Paris Gazette, is important and pleasing, as it shews what a great degree of toleration now prevails in China; and should stimulate Protestant Christians to the 'most earnest prayers and active endeavours to send the pure gospel of Jesus Christ to that vast empire: French Gazette, Tuesday, June 2, 1806. Extract from several Letters, written by the Missionaries of the Foreign Mis· sionary Seminary at Paris, dated from the Province of Sutchusen, in China. THE Christian religion continues to make sensible progress in this province: 5181 Heathens have embraced the faith in the course of the last year; 6039 children have been baptized. The infidels come of their own accord to he instructed, and to request books; which we gratuitously distribute among them, in order to acquaint them with both doctrines and morality. The mildness of the government, and the manner in which it conducts itself with respect to the Christians, make us hope to enjoy peace. We have experienced no per secutions under the government of the new emperor. The mandarins no longer receive the denunciations which the Pagans used to utter against us, on account of our religion. Religious assemblies are publicly held, without any interruption from the city governors. In the district of Tonquin, a Christian, who had refused to give money for the support of a superstitious ceremony, was discharged by the collectors from a silk manufactory, where he gained his living The newly baptized, vexed to see himself compelled to abandon his trade, entered an action against them. The mandarins gave the verdict in favour of the Christian; and said to his adversaries, "Since the Christians ask you for no money for the exercise of their religion, you have no right to force it from them for yours." In another district, a Christian having refused to contribute to a comedy, wherein the Pagans made eulogiums to their idols, was struck by the collectors. The affair having been carried before the government of the place, they ordered the collectors to be arrested; and each of them to receive fifteen blows on their feet, fer endeav ouring, by their private authority, to force the Christians to contribute to a religious ceremony contrary to their consciences. Indeed, the converts bold their assemblies publicly, without any opposition from the government; and religion is preached in all public places and markets, without any obstacle being put in the way by the prætors. After such a decided toleration, there、 is the greatest reason to hope for an extensive progress to be made here in Christianity, if a sufficient number of evangelical labourers will but come to us, in order to preach in this vast proviuee. It is 30 leagues from east to west, and 320 from north to south. It contains twelve cities of the first order, nineteen of the second, and to of the third; and ten others, which are called Jing, and are a part of the twelve first: it is divided into four parts, the east, west, north, and south. True religion is nearly equally spread through those four parts, and has made nearly equal progress. In the eastern division are reckoned 117 societies of Christians, 172 in the west, 23 in the north, and 132 in the south. The number of Christians in the whole, amount to 48,000; and in 1785 there were only 24,000. But, in order to visit and administer to all the converts, an immense tract of country must be traversed, whilst there are, from the seminary at Paris, only four Missionaries, comprehending the Bishop and nineteen Chinese priests. We are now en |