The present work is on a subject deeply interesting to the true Christian, and is well adapted to be an important help to him, not only in ascertaining the operations of the Spirit of God upon his heart, but in meeting the various changes, and prosecuting the pleasing though often difficult course of the divine life. It may indeed be objected to as being defective in logical arrangement. The subject is not treated with the analytical precision which we have a right to look for in a well digested dissertation upon an important religious topic. But we are to remember that the author's design was not to produce a work of speculative theology, or to discuss the mere doctrine or science of Religious Experience, but to furnish a plain, practical treatise adapted to the wants and circumstances of the simple-hearted and conscientious believer in Christ. And henco he has arranged his subjects in accordance with the different states and stages of the divine life. In consequence of this, his work may, moreover, be chargeable with some repetition of sentiment and perhaps of language. This was in a measure unavoidable from the plan of discussion adopted by the author. But whatever may be the literary defects of this treatise in these respects, they are amply compensated by the simplicity, spirituality, and adaptedness to the religious life of the Christian for which it is so highly distinguished. It is eminently practical in its whole bearing and tendency, and so plain that the most unlearned Christian can comprehend and profit by it. And yet at times it is so suggestive that the wisest mind can

find in it a mine of deep and delightful thought. It honors in a very high degree the word of God, for it abounds in scriptural quotations and allusions. On every question the appeal is to the law and to the testimony, and so admirably are the instructions of the sacred volume interwoven with the religious experience of the believer that he feels as if God himself was indeed speaking to him. Nor is there any stage of the divine life, nor scarcely any situation in which the Christian may be placed in which he can not here find something suited to his circumstances. If he be yet but a babe in Christ, here is the milk of the word presented in its purity and sweetness for his nourishment. If advanced in the divine life, here is the strong meat of the Gospel yet further to invigorate his graces and perfect him in holiness. If he is struggling with temptations, or encompassed with difficulties, here is much to encourage and animate him. If he is oppressed with afflictions and trials, the precious promises of the God of truth and the abundant provisions of the covenant of grace are here offered for his comfort and support. Nay, whatever his experience, whatever the dealing of the Lord with him, here he can find much to instruct, to guide, to strengthen, and to cheer him.

And in the present day, when there is such a tendency to mere formal religion-when so much stress is laid on rites and ceremonies, while vital piety is neglected, if not decried-we deem a work so practical, so evangelical, so scriptural, on the important subject of experimental religion, most appropriate. The circulation of every

such treatise is well calculated to advance the cause of vital godliness. In the confident hope that multitudes will be benefited by this little work, as thousands have already been, and in humble reliance upon the grace of God to make it the means of glorifying His name, and promoting the spiritual growth, stability, and comfort of His people, the Board have issued it from the press.

In behalf of the Executive Committee,