1. Christianity - Essays and miss. THE NEW FOR: PUBLIC LIBRARY 193099B ASTOR, LENOX AND 1942 PREFACE. : THE publisher has been induced to offer this work to the public, in consequence of much solicitation he also viewing the subject as being in its own nature the most interesting, and calculated for extensive usefulness: taking into consideration the probability of its falling into the hands of some, where fancy might lead to a perusal of the work, and thereby some be reclaimed from error. The publisher would be much pleased if he was certain of the author; but that being not easily obtained, it is hoped the public will not neglect so excellent a work in consequence of not knowing the author, which is not of so much importance, as the me rit of the work. The principle he wishes to encourage, is enquiry and examination for our own safety, to find the truth of assertions, keeping in view that evidence that leads to establish facts. If so, we may receive with pleasure and profit, the contents of this work, that has so long been in obscurity, but is now revived, I trust, to the joy and comfort of many. A LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION TO THE EDITOR. DEAR SIR, AS the sudden and permanent change which is sometimes affected in men, by the grace of God, in reading well authenticated tracts, which tend to free the mind from infidelity, and aise in pious minds, sentiments of love and gratitude, to the giver of every good and perfect gift, for so great a salvation. I am induced under these considerations, to present you a Book en titled "the Atheist Confuted, together with an essay on Eternity." I have perused the work with singular plea sure, and hesitate not to say, that is is in my opinion, at least an invaluable compilation, and cannot but hope that a book, whose contents do such credit to the title, if offered for a re-publication, will meet a generous patronage. After having read the work, and im partially examined and weighed the arguments brought forward on both sides of the question, I can with the strictest propriety pronounce it, one of the best produc tions of human eloquence and argumentation, that I have ever read, and worthy the attention of every intelligent person; being calculated (in my humble opinion) to establish the authenticity of Divine Revelation, and to justify the ways of God with man. Being persuaded this work is scarce, I am compelled to solicit your undertaking it, expecting you will embrace the earliest opportunity of diffusing knowledge of the greatest importance. Should the patronage equal my wishes, you will have no reason to regret your printing" the Atheist Confuted, with an Essay on Eternity, and the Duty of man." I am with respect Sir, your humble Servant, |