how the brightest intellects may be beclouded by prejudice. If the reader will take the trouble of examining Dwight's sermons on baptism, he will find a still greater number of statements evincing the truth of our position. We solemnly declare, that we have not found, in the whole course of our life, within so small a compass, so much illogical reasoning, such violations of all the laws of language, and such daring perversions of the Word of God.

The system thus supported originated in the most corrupt portion of the Church, (the African,) towards the middle of the third century-a period when dense darkness was rapidly rising from the bottomless pit to veil the beauty and simplicity of primitive Christianity. Ages however rolled away before this innovation became generally predominant. To trace all its mischievous results would be incompatible with our limits, but we confidently assert that everywhere, and at all times, it has weakened the supremacy of truth, violated the inalienable rights of conscience, inflicted the most awful delusion on myriads of human beings, and opened the door to other innovations of the most pernicious character.

to

We think it our imperative duty to submit with profound reverence whatever the King of Zion has ordained. His law is our rule of action. Away with that spurious sensibility which fears to attack principles, if current in human society, however they may invade the prerogative of our ascended Lord. Who has authorized us to regard one ordinance of heaven as of less importance than another? Do not those who pronounce any thing enjoined in the New Testament, non-essential, virtually declare themselves wiser than the great Head of the Church? Influenced by these truths, we therefore solemnly beseech our brethren to contend earnestly for the faith once delivered unto the saints!

The labors of none in a cause of such importance should be despised, but when a champion comes forth accoutred in the panoply of heaven, we cannot but feel the most ardent pleasure. Such has been our feeling while perusing the important work placed at the head of this article-a work we have never seen surpassed in any branch of literature, whether we take into account

the argumentative powers, the philological acumen, or the biblical research it discovers.

A work, bearing the same title, was published by Dr. Carson in the year 1831, and it was universally acknowledged, though he was then but little known, that he was a man of great vigor of thought and profound erudition. Several publications on the subject having been issued from the press since the above period, by our pædobaptist brethren, both in England and America, it was thought desirable that Dr. Carson should reprint his work, accompanied with whatever additions circumstances might require. The following is a syllabus of the contents of the present volume:-Chap. I., The burden of proof; chap. II., Meaning of the word bapto:difference between bapto and baptizo:from p. 18 to 168; chap. III., Subjects of baptism, to p. 234. Eighty-four pages are devoted to the examination of several articles which appeared some time since in the Congregational Magazine, written, if report be correct, by a stripling warrior, now occupying a post of some distinction among his brethren; whether as a reward of his great valour, it is impossible to say. Sixty-eight pages are devoted to the strange assertion of President Beecher, that baptism does not mean either immersion, or pouring, or sprinkling, but purification. To Mr. Bickersteth's treatise on baptism twentyfour pages are assigned; to Dr. Henderson, eighteen; to Dr. Miller, of New York, thirty-one; to Mr. Munro, six; to Mr. Hall, an American, twenty-six ; and to Mr. Thorn, one! Now, is not this a shame? Dr. Carson, Dr. Carson, for shame! to treat a man of Mr. Thorn's pretensions in this way! and to intimate, too, that he knows nothing about the philosophy of language!" that his interpretation is extravagant and wild beyond almost any of his fellow-labourers!" When he was exulting in the work of his hands, and ready to use the language of Horace,

"Exegi monumentum aere perennius

Regalique situ pyramidum altius

Quod non imber edax, non Aquilo impotens Possit diruere, aut innumerabilis Annorum series et fuga temporum," Lo! one gentle blow demolishes the whole. (To be concluded in our next.)

"I have now raised to myself a monument

THE TEACHER'S COMPANION: designed to exhibit the principles of Sunday School instruction and discipline. By R. N. COLLINS. pp 386. London: Houlston and Stoneman.

MR. COLLINS has been many years superintendent of St. Bride's Sunday-schools Fleet Street. His work is dedicated by permission to the Rev. T. Dale, the wellknown vicar of that parish; and it is introduced by an elegant essay from the pen of the Rev. D. Moore, another clergyman of high repute in the metropolis. These particulars will afford a favorable idea of the author's personal character. It may also be proper to state, that the "Teacher's Companion" has been highly commended by a large number of Christian reviewers, and has, after the lapse of a few months, reached a second edition, which is likely soon to be succeeded by a third. With a knowledge of these things, we took up the book, without any bias in its favor, and, we hope, without any prejudice against it. Its perusal has given us much pleasure, and that pleasure was increased by our not finding a single line indicative of the author's churchmanship. It is adapted to Sunday-school Teachers as such. It was manifestly Mr. C's design, not simply to write a book, as by means of the book he has written, to improve the abilities and assist the labors of his numerous fellow-workers. He does not write as a professor of the art of teaching, for which honorable office he is however fitted by his piety, intelligence, and experience. He modestly wishes to be regarded merely as a companion, and to be allowed the freedom and familiarity which such a name implies. There is no egotism or pretence in his book; no attempt at beautiful composition, and no assumed superiority over those whom he addresses. He gives plentiful directions without being dictatorial. He is hortatory throughout, but not offensively so in any case. The advice he liberally tenders, bespeaks his qualifications for the delicate task he has performed; and we have noticed very little, if anything, that can be pronounced unnecessary or impracticable. Taken as a whole, this

more durable than brass, and which far excels the celebrated pyramids of Egypt; a monument which neither storms nor tempests can deface, nor the most violent winds beat down; nor a succession of innumerable ages, or the rapid flight of time destroy."-Horace, Ode 30.

167

book is one of the most excellent of its kind we have ever seen. It is fully entitled to rank with the works of James and Todd. No school library ought to defer the purchase of it; and no teacher, especially no young teacher, can fail to be benefited by choosing, and by often conversing with, so wise a “companion.”

A SURVEY OF THE HOLY LAND; its geography, history, and destiny. Designed to elucidate the imagery of Scripture, and demonstrate the fulfilment of prophecy. By J. T. BANNISTER. With an introduction by the REV. W. MARSH, D. D., Vicar of St. Mary's, Leamington. 8vo., pp. 576. Simpkin and Marshall.

THE devout reader of the Holy Bible will be naturally led to entertain a desire to be acquainted with the country where the greater part of it was written, and where the chief events recorded in the sacred pages occurred. Nor is it less important, if he would understand the word of truth, and appreciate the beauty of its imagery, that he should be acquainted with the scenery, climate, and customs of the east. Without this, the most beautiful and expressive parts information has been supplied on these of Scripture will be unintelligible. Much subjects by travelers, both ancient and modern, whose voluminous productions, however, are not within the reach of the general reader, who has neither the means to purchase, nor the leisure to peruse them; and yet he is anxious, as far as may be, to enjoy the results of their discoveries. It is the purpose of this volume to meet the wishes of such readers. It has been

the author's aim, he tells us, "to accumulate and compress into a single volume the cream of many larger ones; to educe from the writings of ancient and modern authors a succinct yet comprehensive epitome of the geography, history, and antiquties of Palestine; and facts and phenomena which illustrate to give force and pressure' to those the sense, display the beauties, and establish the truth of the inspired records.” In the execution of his purpose Mr. Bannister has been successful. We know of no single volume that furnishes an equal amount of information, in relation to the topography, climate, and history of Palestine. To give an idea of the comprehensiveness of its plan, we may just note, that the

work is divided into four parts. The first, and chief part, is devoted to the geography of Canaan. This notices, first, its historical geography in its ancient and modern divisions, names, &c.; second, its physical geography, including its scenery, climate, &c.; third, its mountains, valleys, plains, &c.; fourth, its rivers, lakes, fountains, &c.; fifth, its natural history; sixth, its cities, &c. Part II. is an historical sketch of Palestine, and Part III. is devoted to a consideration of the prophecies relative to its future destiny.

Altogether, the volume has our most cordial recommendation. It is embellished with numerous well-executed maps and engravings.

THE necessity of a work answering to the title above, may be easily made apparent. "The glorious Gospel of Christ," for upwards of three centuries, has been preached in that interesting and progressively improving part of the world, now called the United States. During this period, American society has been receiving constant and increasing accessions of numerical strength, and of moral influence, from a great diversity of nations and characters. Its civil government and institutions have experienced the most important changes. A correct account, therefore, of the character, in that country, upon which Christianity has had to operate, the instrumentality by which it has been communicated, the events and circumstances it has had to encounter, and the effects it has produced, would doubtless afford the most important practical lessons to all Christendom. Much, indeed, in various ways, has been said of religion in America; yet little, it is to be feared, in which full confidence might be placed.

The book before us contains 738 octavo pages of most important matter. Its author is a minister of the American Presbyterian

Church. The object of Mr. Baird in this volume, is, "to delineate the religious doctrines and institutions of the United States, and to trace their influence from their first appearance in the country to the present time." He divides it into eight books. The first is denominated, "Preliminary Remarks." In this part the author most lucidly describes the natural features of the country, gives an account of the persons, habits, manners, moral and religious notions, and tribes, of the aborigines; of colonisation, and the character of the early colonists. The contents of this book are an excellent key to the subsequent ones. The second treats of the state of religion during the "colonial era.” In this book is shown the religious character of the colonists, the relation between the Churches and the civil power, in the several states; the influence, also, of that relation upon the state of religion in the Churches, and its interests in general. Book the third represents the progress of religion in the "national period." We are furnished, in this part, with an account of the separation of the Churches from the state, the way in which this connection was dissolved, the influence of the dissolution upon the interests of religion, and the subsequent spirit and conduct of the American legislature with reference to Christianity. The fourth is designated "The Voluntary Principle Developed." The fifth, "The Church and the Pulpit in America". It describes the character of American preaching, gives the theory, his. tory, and working of revivals, &c. The sixth book exhibits the statistics, discipline, doctrines, history, and prospects, of the evangelical Churches in the United States. The seventh,

The

the same of the unevangelical ones. eighth is an account of the efforts of American Churches for the conversion of the world.

This invaluable volume ought to be carefully read by all Christians, but especially by evangelical dissenters. Its perusal by the latter would make their professed principles more intelligible and lovely to them than they had been before. Mr. Baird demonstrates, by facts, the efficiency of the voluntary principle. His book is a narrative, yet an irresistible argument, showing that the enforcement of any religion by the civil power promotes not religion, but error, infidelity, and vice. As such, it is peculiarly seasonable in England. In every part of his work, the author's capacious, well informed, sound judgment, his high moral integrity, and his fervent piety, appear. Its careful examination will, therefore, benefit the understanding and the heart.

SCRIPTURE NATURAL HISTORY; containing a description of quadrupeds, birds, reptiles, amphibia, fishes, insects, mulluscous animals, corals, plants, trees, precious stones, and metals, mentioned in the Holy Scriptures. Illustrated by engravings. Tract Society. 12mo., pp. 276.

THE natural history of every country is interesting; but that of the country where the patriarchs and prophets dwelt, and which was the scene of the incarnation and the works of the Lord Jesus, must be peculiarly attractive. The force and beauty of many allusions in Holy Scripture can only be fully appreciated in connection with an acquaintance with the habits or instincts of its animated creation. The beautiful volume before us supplies, at a moderate cost, the varied and important instruction suggested by its title. It is illustrated with excellent wood engravings.

MENTAL CULTURE. Hints on the best and shortest way of cultivating the mind; addressed especially to young men engaged in commercial pursuits: to which is appended a list of works calculated for their perusal. By a Student of University College, London; Author of "Remarks on the System of late Hours of Business," &c. introductory recommendation by the REV. ALEXANDER FLETCHER, A. M., of Finsbury Chapel. Fifth Thousand. Ward and Co. pp. 42.

With an

the attainment of a large measure of useful knowledge. The list of books recommended to their perusal might easily be enlarged.

SIGHTS IN SPRING. 16mo., square. Tract Society.

PLEASING, instructive, and beautifully embellished.

THE MOURNER; or the afflicted relieved. By R. GROSVENOR, D. D. Tract Society. A NEAT reprint of a small but valuable treatise.

PEACE ATTAINED: a brief Memoir of Mrs. * * Tract Society.

WHO the excellent lady was, whose early life, conversion, profession, trials, patience, and death, are here given, we are not informed; but the tale is interesting and well

told.

MISSIONARY CARDS, printed in two colours. THESE are sent by the Tract Society in packets of thirty-two, for twelve-pence. They contain pretty poetry on missionary subjects, and are very neatly printed with a red border.

LITERARY INTELLIGENCE.

MR. Pike, of Derby, has in the press a work on the popish controversy. Mr. Peggs has in the press, "An Appeal to British Christians relative to the Lascars, or Asiatic Sailors, in London, Liverpool, &c. His friend, Mr. B. L. Ward, of Standground, near Peterborough, has liberally contributed to the expence of this publication.

REMARKS ON THE TRANSLATION

OF CERTAIN PASSAGES.

To censure in general terms a version which for ages has enjoyed the reputation of being one of the most faithful ever produced, would be the act of a Zoilus, but there are two or three passages of our authorized translation in which there appears to be an unwarrantable introduction of the name of God, and which on that account merit some remark. Taking the words as they are found, many persons may be led to believe that certain expressions have the sanction of inspiration when the fact is quite otherwise.

At Saul's accession it is said, "And all the people shouted, God save the King." (1 Sam, x. 24.) Now those who never see

the Marginal Notes, and these are the great majority of readers, will naturally step to the false conclusion that that phrase was the very form used by the Hebrews in their loyal acclamations. The marginal reading, "Let the king live," exactly agreeing with the French Vive le roi, is a literal rendering of the original, and ought, as every way preferable, to have been in the text. The same

may be observed of the passage (2 Sam. xvi. 16.) and two or three places in the Books of Kings and Chronicles where translations similarly incorrect are given.

Again, Paul is repeatedly made to employ the extraordinary negative, "God forbid," where he never uses the sacred name at all. (Rom. iii. 4, 6, 31; vi. 2, 15. &c.; 1. Cor. vi. 15; Gal. ii. 17; iii. 21; vi. 14) His expression

is simply megenoitō "Let it not be." What makes the objection stronger here, is, that in none of these places is there any marginal note that gives the literal rendering. These remarks equally apply to Luke xx. 16, where the same form occurs.

It may be said that the phrases are equivalent; but equivalent phrases, though not unfrequently proper in translations of uninspired authors, should be cautiously adopt

ed in a book which is to be a rule of faith and practice, and where every form of expres. sion stamped with its approval, will be considered as of undoubted authority. It was through hearing the expression "God forbid" frequently used in conversation by a religious professor, that the writer was led to offer these remarks. "Thou shall not take the mame of the Lord thy God in vain." W. S.

MRS. ANN GRAVES.-This aged and esteemned member of the General Baptist Church at Louth finished her earthly course Sep. 1. 1843. She was brought up in early

life in habits of attendance on the services of the established Church; and her adherence to them was continued till she was nearly fifty years of age. Her mind about this time was enlightened by the ministry of the Gospel, and being now deeply concerned for the salvation of her soul, she was led to enquire after the way of life for sinners, revealed in the New Testament. By reading this, by prayer and conversation with pious friends, she readily learned that sinners were to be saved, not by works of righteousness, not by a mere outward attention to forms of worship, but by the grace of God through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood: and hence she was induced without delay to select for herself a ministry in which Christ and him crucified was the leading theme. At this time she was a widow, surrounded by a numerous family, and encumbered with the cares arising out of the cultivation of a considerable farm, which she then occupied; but though her residence was four miles from the place of worship to which she had become attached, her regular attendance evinced her solicitude to enjoy the means of grace. The spiritual profit with which she waited on God in his house soon became apparent in her decision of character. She gave herself to the Lord, and then to his people, according to the will of God. She was baptized and added to the Church. To her family this step was then very unwelcome. Dissenters of whatever denomination did not rank high in their esteem, and the Baptists were somewhat lower in it than some others. by her abounding maternal kindness, her regular domestic worship, and her consistent deportment, their prejudices were overcome; and at length the greater number of her children were united to the Church to which she herself belonged, and walked with her

But

in the fellowship of the Gospel. To her mind this was a source of unspeakable delight; and the other branches of the family, whose views of Divine things have not led them to submit to belivers' baptism, are of the number, it is believed, who fear the Lord and think upon his name. Three of her daughters, members of the same society with herself, were removed by death from the Church below to that above. Her affectionate mind sorrowed on these occasions, but not as others who are without hope. They died in the Lord they knew whom they had believed: they rejoiced in hope; when their heart and flesh failed, God was the strength of their heart, and their portion for ever. These considerations enabled their bereaved mother to sustain the repeated strokes of her heavenly Father's providential hand with great Christian fortitude and unfeigned submision to his will.

con

After a few years from the commencement of her christian profession, this esteemed friend removed to Louth; and, being released from her former occupations, she employed herself in works of usefulness. An enlarged and steady confidence in God was spicuous in every part of her course; but on some occasions of deep trial, this attribute of character shone forth with very pleasing lustre. She maintained great cheerfulness in her intercourse with others. Many of her friends call this into pleasing remembrance now she is no more. She was exemplary for her constant regard to public worship: her delight was in the house and ordinances of the Lord; and except prevented by illness, when at home, her place in the house of God was very seldom unoccupied. And when from home, wherever she went, she maintained the same diligence in regard to the assemblies of the saints. Another pleasing trait in her character was found in her varied and habitual efforts to do good: her visits to the poor and afflicted, were frequent, and her sympathy and relief generous. At these times a word of exhortation, or admonition, or consolation, as circumstances required, was given, to the