able. I am well aware that ample means already exist for such as are willing to take the pains to inform themselves on the subject. It has however appeared to me that there are at the present time circumstances which justify such an attempt as that which I have here ventured to make. Though I by no means wish to bring against any one the charge of intentionally misrepresenting our principles and views, I cannot hesitate to say that they have been misrepresented to a great extent in many recent publications. From the operation of this and other causes, many of our members have been led to form a very erroneous estimate of the character of that profession in which they have been educated; have in great measure overlooked its excellence; and are thus in danger of lightly esteeming, and ultimately abandoning that of which they do not perceive the value. It was with a particular view to this state of things that the following observations were written. I believe that I can truly disclaim any feeling of bigotry or sectarian narrowness. I well know, and gladly acknowledge, that vital religion is not confined to any one section of the visible church; and most cordially can I adopt the language of the apostle, "Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity." Nevertheless, valuing, as I do, that profession in which I have been educated, because I believe it to be not only consonant with the truth of the gospel, but also eminently calculated, when practically applied, to promote vital religion; and feeling thankful to the Father of mercies, that my lot has been cast among this people, I cannot but affectionally desire for others, especially for my younger friends, that they may duly appreciate its value, and not lightly part with those privileges which the good providence of God has placed within their reach. In offering these pages to their 'serious consideration, I trust I am actuated by a higher motive than that of merely wishing them to remain in outward fellowship with myself,—an earnest desire for their own spiritual welfare, and for their usefulness in the church of Christ. First Month, 1837. NATURE AND END OF TRUE RELIGION-LAW OF MOSES -GOSPEL OF CHRIST-GREAT APOSTACY-REFOR- MATION-GEORGE FOX AND HIS FELLOW-LABOURERS GENERAL VIEW OF THE DOCTRINES AND PRACTICE OF THE FIRST FRIENDS-OBJECTIONS URGED AGAINST SOME OF THEIR DOCTRINAL EXPRESSIONS CONSID- 45 |