against the Bishop of Lichfield and Dr. Rogers. The latter replied to them in a set treatise, a very complete and finished performance upon the subject, which for closeness of argument, and strength of reason, as well as purity of style, is inimitable, and will stand the test. Notwithstanding which, this writer here carries on the same claim of liberty, against plain and express law; and not content with that, threatens bishops with scaffolds, and judges with the bar of the House, for standing by our constitution. His words are; "However terrible inferior "tribunals may shew themselves, the proudest men that ever "swelled in scarlet have often kneeled at the bar of that most august judicature 9." This because the judges in Westminster Hall determined in favour of Christianity, as above mentioned. These are brisk advances in so short a time, and are sufficient to let us see what spirit they are of. 4 Page II. ADVERTISEMENT. THE following Essay was, for the most part, drawn up above thirty years ago, by an University Tutor, for the private use of his own pupils: and some improvements were afterwards made to it by a judicious friend. It was never intended for the public view, because, in the very nature of it, it should be often changing, in some parts, according as new and better books should come out. Besides, it might be thought assuming in a private Tutor to make his directions public, as if he affected to prescribe to other young Scholars, who might better be left to take directions from their proper Tutors. But since this little Tract has, without the Author's knowledge, and contrary to his intentions, found a way to the press incorrect in many things, and altered also in method to its disadvantage, it is thought proper to reprint it more correct, restoring it to its first state; that it may appear as perfect now as ever it has been, To this edition are added such books in the sciences as have lately been published, and are now in use, without prescribing however to the Tutors of the Universities, who are the properest judges. a Dr. Waterland. In the Republic of Letters for December 1729. |