The translations of the Latin expressions which are interspersed in the work, are subjoined also for the same reason. I hope it will be thought an improvement to remove from the text to the foot of the page, the numerous references of Scripture, which, from their frequent occurrence, interrupt the narration, and give a less pleasing effect to the eye. I have adopted the modern orthography, with a view to render the Work more readable and inviting. The reader may be assured, however, no liberties have been taken with the language of the text. In sitting down to the following volumes, he will have the satisfaction of conversing only with Hale. I envy not the taste of the architect who thinks the venerable simplicity of the Gothic receives any improvement from its transformation into the style of a Grecian edifice. His Poems conclude the Second Volume. If there be any part of the Works of Hale, the loss of which I should least regret, I confess it is this. If, however, they want the characters which constitute legitimate poetry, let the vein of piety which runs through through them, and the dignity of the sub ject, deprecate the severity of criticism. May I be permitted to conclude with my fervent prayer, that this feeble attempt to do justice to the memory of Sir MATTHEW HALE, and to serve the cause of piety and virtue, may be attended with the blessing of Heaven, and be a means of promoting amongst men, the imitation of this excellent pattern, and the cultivation of all those graces and good dispositions which rendered him amiable and estimable in the sight of men, and recommended him, we trust, through the merits of Christ, to the favour of God, and a place in the realms of eternal bliss! Since these volumes were printed, it has afforded me no small gratification to observe that a Prelate 1, not less conspicuous for his learning and abilities than his primitive zeal in the diffusion of practical Christianity, has included the 'Contemplations Moral and Divine, of Sir Matthew Hale,' in the short list of Books which he recommends as કંડ "deserving a place in every Christian's ' Dr. Burgess, Bishop of St. David.—See part the third. An Easter Catechism. "closet, "closet, for their truly Scriptural principles of vital and spiritual Religion." It is a circumstance peculiarly important to the cause of religion, and consolatory to her friends, when Men are advanced to eminent stations in the Church, who feel themselves called upon to employ their talents and exert their influence in spreading the knowledge of Christ amongst the ignorant and illiterate, and instilling into babes the milk of the word! Whilst the Church of England can look up to those for her guardians and examples, who "take up “the mantles” of Andrews, Beveridge, and Horne, we humbly trust, she will ever flourish under God, and maintain her ascendancy in this favoured land. THE |