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this subject. Those who, to behold the sun, are obliged to interpose dark glasses, or fluids blackened by ink, while, to behold the moon or the stars, they carefully concentrate every ray of light which they can collect, must be extremely sensible of the truth of our text. Nor is this all; for the planets, which are commonly reckoned among stars, are certainly much brighter, and more steady, in their light than the fixed stars; while these also differ in brilTiancy among themselves. They differ in brilliancy to the naked eye; and the eye, by their brilliancy, estimates their dis. tances. But there is another sense in which stars differ in glory; for, through the immensely powerful telescopes of Herschel, they appear some red, some green, some yellow, some white. No bed of tulips fhews greater variety of splendor. The more we know, therefore, the stronger is the import of this passage; and the more correct do the ideas and expressions of the apostle appear, or rather those of the Holy Spirit, speaking by him.

The reader will perceive that here modern discoveries are marshalled under the standard of truth; and the labours of the learned in natural things, are directed to the support of evangelic principles.

The second division of this work consists of detached enquiries into a great variety of subjects. The leading ideas of the writers are, that the original station of Noah after the flood, of his son Shem, and of Abraham, the father of the Hebrew nation, was much nearer to India than our best Scripture geographers have supposed; that Arts and Sciences, as writing, &c. were practised in the earliest ages; and that it pleased God, while he treated with peculiar favour the seed of Abraham his friend, and the appointed line, according to the flesh of the great Messiah. to suffer much more knowledge of his will, and intercourse with him by worship, to obtain in early times, than we at present are aware of. We have not room to detail the subjects treated in this part; but as the question on the jackalls of Samson has lately been set before our readers under two representations 1, we shall now, from this work, offer a third, without, however, presuming to affirm that the opinion of the writer, though plausible, is decisive. The first paragraph is trans

lated from the Danish voyager, Forskall.

"Matches, or small inflammable cords, for the purpose of setting fire, to discharge their carbines (as is customary in these countries) instead of striking fire by a flint. The bark of trees is beaten, steeped in water, and twisted into the form of a cord."

It will be seen on the subject of Samson's burners, or lamps (Judges xv.) that we desired further information respecting their nature, and referred to a plate of eastern lights, where indeed no further information appears; but the reader will accept it here. The Hebrew (lampad) is rendered fire-brand in our public version; it was hardly burning, blazing wood, properly a fire-brand; but, it might be of the nature of these matches, used for the purpose of carrying fire from place to place, in which, the fire, as usual in our own artillerymatches, by a very slow combustion, burns dead for a time, yet when blown upon by wind, whether of the breath or otherwise, rekindles its brilliancy, and commugicates flame as directed. Let us suppose, for a moment, that the brands employed by Samson were these matches, "twisted into the form of a cord," and that these, not the jackalls, were turned tail to tail." The history would then stand thus :

"And Samson went and took three hundred roving jackalls themselves; and he took long-burning cord-matches, and turned them tail to tail (the fire being at one end, the other end is the tail) and placed a single cord-match between two not-burning ends (tails) across. And he set fire to all the cord-matches, and sent them into the standing corn of the Philistines, &c. and, the jackalls roaming about, the the matches burnt with vigour, and communicated their blaze to all combustibles, wherever they were carried."

That the word tails is capable of this sense, appears demonstratively from Isaiah vii. 4. "Fear not, for the two tails of these smoking fire-brands (Rezin,") &c. where the same word is used for tails; but the word for smoking fire-brands is not the same as in the history of Samson: a difference deserving notice, for these probably intend burning brands of wood; and so the Seventy render the word [Were the lamps of Gideon, (Judges vii) these matches?}

The reader will consider the above with proper favour; at least, he will perceive by it, that the minutest articles are not to be despised, but may occasionally illustrate Scripture, when more laboured comments struggle in vain with difficulties, which no verbal or grammatical knowledge can rem

move.

+ See vol. x. p. 404. 185. 524.

On the nature of serpents, particularly the cockatrice; on plants, ~woods, precious stones, buildings, &c. much pains has been taken. We do not mean to say, that we agree with the writers in every thing; but, on the whole, we think this work likely to answer the pur. pose of those who wish for information on these subjects. We rejoice to see the labours of philosophy, in natural things, directed to the elucidation of God's revealed word; and believing that the intention of the authors coincides with their professions, of doing honour to the divine volume. We wish the same succes may attend this work, as has already attended the former publication by the same parties; of which we learn, that not only the Dictionary itself, but the Supplement also, has reached a second edition.

The numerous maps, plates, figures, and views of places, are neatly executed appear to be from the best authorities; and contribute very much to the clearer understanding as well as the embellishment of the Bible. They are unquestionably much fitter companions to the best of books, than those fancy-pieces whose ill-chosen subjects, and whose misrepresenta tions rather sully than adorn the sacred page.

The History of the Origin and Transactions of the Missionary Society, including Journals of the Missionaries at Otaheite, Tongata. boo, and in South Africa. 8vo, 8s. 6d. bds.; or in Eight Numbers, 15. each.

THE Otaheitan Journals comcommence from the departure of the ship Duff from that island, in Aug. 4, 1797; and are continued to July 30, 1801.-The Journal of the Missionaries at Tongataboo, commences Sept. 6, 1797; and is continued to the close of that mission in Jan. 1800. The Journal of the African Missionaries (including Dr. Vanderkemp) commences at their embarkation in the end of 1798, and is continued to March

1802.

To this is added, some account of the Caffre language, with a vocabulary, and a variety of curious ar ticles of information, relative to the history, geography, and natural history of that country.

In the last Number (which in binding is prefixed to the volume) is given an Historical Introduction, containing a concise sketch of for mer missions.

Extracts from these Journals, it is true, have appeared in a detached form in our Magazine; but many particulars were then necessarily omitted, and others, much compressed. The whole, therefore, in its collected form, seems highly ne cessary for every Director who takes an active part in the business of the Society; important to every Member who feels interested in its concerns; and will be read with much interest by all the friends of missions.

As a specimen of the interesting matter contained in this work, we give (from page 348, &c.) the following account of "The Conversion and Call of Dr. Vanderkemp to the Missionary Work.”

The first account is given in a letter from the late Mr. Cornelius Brem (whose death was mentioned in our last, p. 306) who describes him as a man of most uncommon piety and talents, "perfectly skill. ed in all sciences and faculties, in philosophy, divinity, physic, the military art, &c. &c. He not only understands all the learned lan guages, but also all the modern European ones; even that of the Highlands in Scotland. He is of a very healthy strong constitution, hardened against all fatigues by a deliberate abstinence: a model of strict sobriety. In his conversation he shews not the least ostentation, and seems studiously to conceal the great endowments he possesses; · humble. friendly, affable, and of the most agreeable address."

Such was the report of Mr. Brem, which has been strictly justified by subsequent acquaintance with the Doctor himself. His first desire of Missionary work arose from reading the Missionary Sermons, preached at the institution of our Society

and when he came to the words, "Eurse ye, Meroz," &c. (Sermon V.) he fell on his knees, and cried out,Here I am, Lord Jesus; thou knowest that I have no will of my own, since I gave myself up unto thee, to be spent in thy service, according to thy pleasure: prevent me only from doing any thing in this great work in a carnal and selfsufficient spirit; and lead me in the right way, if there be yet any way of wickedness in me."

On this he immediately wrote to the Missionary Society in London; and, in the course of the correspondence, gave the following account of his conversion and experience, which we shall give in his own words, without comment or remark:

"As I am, Sir, entirely unknown to you, I think I ought to give you a short account of my circumstances: - I am near fifty years of age, born at Rotterdam, a member of the established religion of the country, of tolerable health. I first studied physic at Leyden, but afterwards entered into the army; where I served sixteen years, and rose to the rank of Captain of Horse, and Lieutenant of the Dragoou Guards, living a slave to vice and ungodliness. Marriage, however, put an end to scandalous irregularities, and brought

-

on some external reformation. I then left

the service, and went over to Edinburgh, where, after two years study, I took my degree; having, during my stay, composed a Latin work on Cosmology, entitled, "Parmenides." (To be had at Dilly's.) On my return home, I practised physic, in Zealand, where I became publicly a Deist, blaspheming the name of Christ, under the full conviction that I pleased God, Ten years after, I los my dear wife and only child at the same moment, and was my self, as by miracle, rescued from the jaws of death Six days after this terrible event, the Lord revealed himself to me; since which time I am his bounden servant, devoted to the will of my Master and Conque or Some of the clergy advised me to enter into holy orders; but though I was desirous to preach the gospel of Christ, I was persuaded it was not nis will in this way He soon after sent me to the army, in quality of Director and Superintendant of an Hospital, near Rotterdam, where I served till the Revolution. I then thought it my duty to quit At present I am retired from all business, employing my time in orien eal literature, and in finishing a Commen

the service.

tary on St. Paul's Epistle to the Romans which I commenced before 1 went to the Dutch camp, and wish to leave behind me. as a testimony of my conviction of the myself on his service. I humbly and ear truth as it is in Jesus, and now offering nestly request to be favoured with your correspondence and advice, which I hope to consider in the fear of God, praying in the mean time, without ceasing, for a blessing on the great and important work, which he himself is doing, by your means, for the glory of his kingdom.

I am, dear Sir," &c.

In a subsequent letter, the Doctor gives the particulars of the event here alluded to, which led him to devote himself to the service of his Redeemer, of which we propose to give some farther extracts in oùr

next.

Four Sermons, preached in London, at the Ninth General Meeting of the Missionary Society, May 10, 11, 12, 1803, by the Rev. S. Bottomley, Scarborough, T. Young, Canterbury; G. Ewing, Glasgow; J. Newell, Great Missenden :also the Report of the Directors, and a List of subscribers. 8vo, 2s. 6d.

THE first of these Discourses,

entitled, "Advantages of Patience," is founded on Rom. ii. 7, " Te them who, by patient continuance in well-doing, seek for glory, and honour, and immortality, eternal life;" from which text the preacher directs us to the following particu lars : -1. A threefold object of pursuit; "glory, and honour, and immortality." -2. The course to be taken in order to obtain, “patient continuance in well-doing.' 3. The happy result; God will render "eternal life."

The second Sermon, entitled, "St. Paul's Conduct, a Pattern for Missionaries," has for its text, Rom. xv. 20, 21, "Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ is named," &c. Mr. Young considers, 1. The object proposed by the apostle, the instruction of the Heathen; 2. The means he employed, preaching the gospel; 3. The spirit by which he was a¤tuated.

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The last Sermon, by Mr. Newell (since deceased) is entitled, “St. Paul's Mission to the Gentiles," from Acts xxii. 21, " And he said unto me, Depart; for I will send thee far hence to the Gentiles." The preacher observes the following particulars: 1. The salvation of the Gentiles is an object of divine delight, 2. A certain event, 3. An infinite blessing. This Discourse is enlivened by several Missionary anecdotes.

This new set of Sermons will prove, that the great subject, on which they treat, is not exhausted; and they contain abundant encouragement to the Society, and its friends, to persist in their laudable undertaking.

The Report of the Proceedings of the past year, is unusually large; and is certainly highly interesting, as it presents a general view of the different Missions now supported by the Society; and will convince the public, that their efforts have been already crowned with considerable success. We shall extract only the following passage, which we hope will have a due effect on our generous readers :

"It will, doubtless, occur to those who take a suitable interest in the concerns of the Society, that the accomplishment of these various objects will unavoidably occasion a very increased expenditure of its funds. Indeed, the disbursements of the last year have greatly exceeded its income, and rendered it necessary to dispose of some part of that property, which the Directors would have been glad to have retained as

the basis of its permanent support. It will be manifest to those who attentively reflect on the subject, that, without an adequate and permanent foundation, the Directors cannot embark in new and extensive un. dertakings, however promising and desirable, since they would thereby expose

the Society to the danger of disorder in its affairs, and of their bringing dishonour on the cause. It is not doubted his short in. tination will produce that spontaneous liberality, which render a more expressive address on this subject unnecessary. In the mean time, we have to notice, that some friends to this great object, have lately, by their testamentary dispositions, manifested that its prosperity, after their decease, was an object which occupied their anxieties during their lives."

Memoirs of Miss Susanna Anthony, who died at Newport, Rhode Island, June 23, 1791, in the Sixty-fifth Year of her Age; consisting chiefly of Extracts from her Writings; with some brief Observations on them. Compiled by Sam. Hopkins, D. D. Pastor of the First Congregational Church in Newport. A New Edition, with a Recommendatory Preface, by Dr. Ryland, Mr. Fuller, and Mr. Sutcliffe. 8vo, 35. 6d. sewed.

THIS work is dedicated to the Christian females of Great Britain; and is well worthy their perusal. It contains a fine display of experimental religion; and shews the superiority, purity, and happiness of that life which is spent in communion with God. Those who have read the Life of the late Mr. Pearce, and wish for a companion to that work, will here be highly gratified. Mr. Pearce was indeed a public character, and the subject of these Memoirs a private one; but "the violet,,though less conspicuous, is not less fragrant nor beautiful than the rose." Miss Anthony had a clear view of the doctrines of grace; was early devoted to God; remarkable for prayer, temperance, diligence, reading the Scriptures, and consistency of conduct. We entirely agree, therefore, with the respectable writers of the Dedication, that while this volume may be peculiarly useful to Christian females, yet no serious person can read it without perceiving the sweetness and importance of heavenly things. It affords a singular specimen of the powerful influence of evangelical principles upon the heart and life,

and must provoke the Christian reader to emulate the same holy and happy attainment, walking by the same rule, and minding the same thing.

Village Dialogues between Farmer

Littleworth, Rev Mr. Lovegood and others. By the Rev. Rowland Hill, Vol. IV. and last. 15. 6d. stitched; bound, or fine paper sewed, 25.

In this volume the author concludes his original plan. The first of these Dialogues contains an account of the awful death of Mr. Greedy. The next is a display of benevolence and humanity in the Character of Mr. Lovely: this is followed by The Happy Marriage. The succeeding Dialogue represents the ministerial character of Mr. Deliberate, and Mr. Legal definition, &c. The character of Mr. Fribble follows.

The folly of Sec

tarian Bigotry is next exposed; together with the character of Mr. Slapdash The following Dialogue is intended to prove, that No good Marriages proceed from bad Matches. The whole is concluded with an affecting account of the death of Mr. Merryman.

Those who have read the former volumes may expect to find in this, a continuation of the same fund of innocent humour and salutary satire. The characters are drawn from life with a sprightly and faithful pencil; and the perusal will, we trust, afford solid instruction as well as pleasing amusement.

The author concludes the work by becoming his own Reviewer, and anticipates the sentiments of the public in the following manner :—

"A wicked wretch! he hates the church, and wants to overturn it!"-If it be not overturned by the abovementioned regular clergy, regularly wicked, it will never be overturned by him. Indeed! Indeed! he loves the church and wishes for its refor

mation.

"But we are sure he hates bitterly the scate; and Mr. Spiteful and his comrades will prove the fact." When he and his adherents leave off abusing the govern ment, under which they are protected themselves, they will then be left at li berty to make good their mad and wanton charges against others as fast as they can.

"He is at times much too jocular."How was the poor author to act under this charge? Some have privately advised a graver style; others have said, "Let every man appear in his own dress." He only begs, that his kind critics would bear with him; for if, at one time, he has been too jocular, at another time he has been too

dull.

"He has been holding up the doctrine of faith without works!" Strange assertion! let the reader put on his spectacles, for his sight cannot be clear, and read again; and then see, if the whole design of the book be not to prove that real Christianity inspires holiness to God, devotedness to his glory, and universal benevo lence towards all mankind." But he is certainly an advocate for the old free grace notions of the reformers."-Yes, and let our modern reformers of the doctrines of the reformation prove, that they have done more against all the wickedness existing in this day, than those great men of God did in their day against Popery and its concommitant evils; and the point is given up.

"But what will that terrible literary phalanx, the Reviewers, say?" Ob, that mat ter is easily settled; they, like wise men of Gotham, tell the world, even by the title page of their books, under whose service they have registered their brains and pens; the man who minds them (1 speak of them as a body) proves he has nomind of his own: and the greatest literary amusement a man can have, if he has but time, is to read their most curious contradictions of each other. It appears, that a certain set of these reviewers has already discovered, that the writer of these dialogues is both a Solomon and a fool. If, however, he may be permitted to speak for himself, he has been writing for no party-he withes matters to stand as they are-he is for the existence of an establishment, together with a free toleration to all dissenters, under the protection of the most excellent constitution, on which our British government is framed. He's for no revolutions; as whatever corruptio às may defile us, 20 *The Anti-Jacobin Reviewers.

"His Mr. Lovegood is neither a bigotted churchman nor a friend to stiff dissenters; he is neither one thing nor another, and for this, the rigid professor, on both sides of the question, will give it the author on both sides of his ears." This, however, will be to him nothing more than the old thing over again.

He has lashed, say some, the regular clergy with the most contemptuous severity."-Not the regular clergy.-Look at their names and characters, and say, for the credit of the church, are these the regular clergy? The regular clergy he has treated with respect,

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