who have regarded the Bible as a text book in science as well as religion, forgetting that it was given to make us wise, not in the learning that perisheth, but unto salvation. It should be remarked, that it contains nothing that is inconsistent with the established principles of any science. XXXI. A LOVE of truth is laudable, but we must be careful not to mistake, for it, the love of our own opinions. XXXII. HYPOCRISY often appears in an affected fervour in public prayer, and the introduction of religious conversation. It is our duty to be fervent in our prayers, public and private, and to converse much on the subject of religion; but let us see to our motives, that no desire of acquiring a reputation for piety mingles. The expressions of a truly humble and sincere Christian will always be below rather than above his feelings. He will tremble when he perceives the estimation in which he is held, lest, inadvertently, he has made professions that have transcended the reality. XXXIII. MEN perish not alone in their iniquity. Every man is continually exerting and receiving an influence, more or less powerful, according to the circumstances in which he is placed. The man that continues in sin, not only destroys himself, but many others who are under his influence. Parents have thus often destroyed their children, and friend has dragged friend to perdition. Many a parent, who would shudder at the thought of plunging a dagger into the body of his child, can deliberately murder its immortal soul. XXXIV. Ir, at every night, we were obliged to give an account of the day to God, would not our manner of spending it be different? The time of reckoning is only deferred. We may forget, but God will not forget the slightest action. PRINCETON, N. J. J. A. SAINT JOHN'S VISION. By Patmos shore the exile stood, The leaf was resting in the grove; With folded arms he stood, and eye Like one who saw, beneath that sea, To him it seemed, as if the time Had come, when nature's glorious chime Would cease, and from their silent graves, To bliss or wo unending in the skies. But hark! his ear what sound then smote ? And precious stones and gems untold A double pile. Above it gleamed That poured through heaven eternal day. Upon some icy mountain's breast, So on his high and dazzling throne The Lord of lords, the King of kings. Record, in lines of burning light, The scenes which are or soon shall be On earth and in eternity.' |