cumstances. It is not then without good grounds that he indulges in the hope, that, despite those lesser differences, the clergy are actuated by the same sublime motives, and alike moved by the living flame from God's altar, in preaching fully to sinners their redemption by Jesus Christ, and thereby promoting largely, and in common, the glory of the Almighty.

In recording opinions touching the ecclesiastical polity of England, imbibed in his early days and matured by time, the Author has endeavoured to acquire the tone, and to deliver himself in the spirit of true Christianity.

It has been his sole aim to advance and substantiate those doctrines, which he conscientiously believes, from much study and after fervent prayer, to be in accordance with the uniform tenor of Scripture.

His expositions may indeed prove a stumbling-block to many of his readers ; still he is inclined to rely upon receiving that indulgence, which he, who casts, upon the

waters a book of this nature, would seem almost entitled to claim.

He must, however, be permitted to prefer one request, which is, that neither the casual nor critical reader. will pronounce upon the merits or demerits of his slight performance upon imperfect warranty, such as the perusal of a part; and that judgment may not be passed until the whole has been examined.

In conclusion, the Author would impress upon his readers, that the following pages are not written in the spirit of controversy, or designed to be offensive to those who conscientiously may hold different opinions. They have been composed with the view of inducing others to follow his example, and search the Scriptures for themselves, and in the hope of staying, according to his humble means, the torrent, which, charged with all the colluvies of infidelity, is rolling its foul waters over everything that is sacred, and should be kept unsullied from every unholy stain.

If this little work succeed in the objects which the Author has at heart, the candid reader will, he trusts, profit by his research; but should he fail, the consciousness of having attempted to contribute to his aid, feeble though it be, in such a cause, will impart that inward satisfaction, of which nothing earthly can ever deprive him.

London, March 25, 1837.