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and the middling classes of people are the purchasers; and the subject is religion-though not that religion certainly which is established by law, and encouraged by national provision. This may lead to unpleasant circumstances, or it may not; but it carries with it a sort of aspect, which ought to insure to it serious attention and reflection.

An interference respecting Cards.

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lines were written, was spending an evening-not in his 'A clergyman not far distant from the spot on which these closet wrestling with his Divine Master for the communication of that grace which is so peculiary necessary for the faithful discharge of the ministerial function-not in his study searching the sacred oracles of divine truth for maIt is impossible to arrive at any knowledge of a reli- feed the flock under his care-not in pastoral visits to that terials wherewith to prepare for his public exercises and gious sect, by merely detailing the settled articles of flock, to inquire into the state of their souls, and endeavour, their belief: it may be the fashion of such a sect to by his pious and affectionate conversation, to conciliate insist upon some articles very slightly; to bring for- their esteem, and promote their edification, but at the card ward others prominently; and to consider some por- table.'-After stating that when it was his turn to deal, he tion of their formal creed as obsolete. As the know-dropped down dead, 'It is worthy of remark (says the wriledge of the jurisprudence of any country can never beter,) that within a very few years this was the third character obtained by the perusal of volumes which contain card table to the bar of God.'-Ev. Mag. p. 262. in the neighbourhood which had been summoned from the some statutes that are daily enforced, and others that have been silently antiquated: in the same manner, the practice, the preaching, and the writing of sects, are comments absolutely necessary to render the perusal of their creed of any degree of utility.

It is the practice, we believe, with the orthodox, both in the Scotch and English churches, to insist very rarely, and very discreetly, upon the particular instances of the interference of Divine Providence. They do not pretend that the world is governed only by general laws-that a Superintending Mind never interferes for particular purposes; but such purposes are represented to be of a nature very awful and sublime-whea a guilty people are to be destroyed, when an oppressed nation is to be lifted up, and some remarkable change introduced into the order and arrangement of the world. With this kind of theology we can have no quarrel; we bow to its truth; we are satisfied with the moderation which it exhibits; and we have no doubt of the salutary effect which it produces upon the human heart. Let us now come to those special cases of the interference of Providence as they are exhibited in the publications before us.

Interference respecting Swearing-a Bee the instrument.

the bees with his hat, uttering at the same time the most A young man is stung by a bee, upon which he buffets dreadrul oaths and imprecations. In the midst of his fury, one of these little combatants stun hi upon the tip of that unruly member (his tongue.) which was then employed in blaspheming his maker. Thus can the Lord engar e one of the meanest of his creatures in reproving the bold transgressor who dares to take his name in vain.'--Ev. Mag, pe

363.

Interference with respect to David Wright, who was cured of Atheism and Scrofula by one Sermon of Mr. Coles.

This case is too long to quote in the language and with the evidences of the writers. The substance of of it is what our title implies.--David Wright was a man with scrofulous legs and atheistical principles ;being with difficulty persuaded to hear one sermon from Mr. Coles, he limped to the church in extreme pain, and arrived there after great exertions;-during church time he was entirely converted, walked home with the greatest ease, and never after experienced the slightest return of scrofula or infidelity.-Ev. Mag.

p.

444.

The displeasure of Providence is expressed at Captain
Scott's going to preach in Mr. Romaine's Chapel.

The sign of this displeasure is a violent storm of thunder and lightening just as he came into town.Ev. Mag. p. 537.

An interference with respect to the Rev. James Moody. Mr. James Moody was descended from pious ancestors, who resided at Paisley ;-his heart was devoted to music, dancing, and theatrical amusements; of the latter he was so fond that he used to meet with some men of a similar cast to rehearse plays, and used to entertain a hope that he should make a figure upon the stage. To improve himself m music, he would rise very early, even in severely cold weather, and practice on the Gerinan flute: by his skill in music and singing, with his general powers of entertaining, he became a desirable companion: he would sometimes venture to profane the day of God, by turning it into a season of carnal pleasure: and would join in excursions on the water, to various parts of the vicinity of London. But the time was approaching, when the Lord, who hat designs of mercy for him, and for many others by his means, was about to stop him in his vain career of sin and folly. There Never mind," says the innkeeper, "I'll get a greater conwere two professing servants in the house where he lived;gregation than the Methodist Parson; we'll have a cockone of these was a porter, who, in brushing his clothes, fight." But what is man! how insignificant his designs, how would say, "Master James, this will never do-you must impotent his strength, how ill-fated his plans, when opposed be otherwise employed-you must be a minister of the gos-to that Leing who is infinite in wisdom, boundless in power, pel." This worthy man, earnestly wishing his conversion, put into his hands that excellent book which God hath so much owned, Allein's Alarm to the Unconverted.

Interference with respect to an Innkeeper, who was destroyed for having appointed a cock-fight at the very time that the service was beginning at the Methodist Chapel.

terrible in judgment, and who frequently reverses, and suddealy renders abortive, the projects of the wicked! A few days after the avowal of his intention, the innkeeper sickened,' &c. &c. And then the narrator goes on to state, that his corpse was carried by the meeting-house, 'on the day, and exactly at the time, the deceased had fixed for the cock-fight.'Meth. Mag. p. 125.

In page 167, Meth. Mag., a father, mother, three sons, and a sister, are destroyed by particular interposition.

About this time it pleased God to visit him with a disorder in his eyes, occasioned, as it was thought, by his sitting up in the night to improve himself in drawing. The apprehension of losing his sight occasioned many serious reflections; his mind was impressed with the importance and necessity of seeking the salvation of his soul, and he was induced to attend the preaching of the gospel. The first sermon that he heard with a desire to profit, was at Spa-fields Chapel; a place where he had formerly frequented, when it was a temple of vanity and dissipation. Strong convictions of sin fixed on his stroyed for irreligion-another person for swearing In page 222, Meth. Mag., a dancing master is demind; and he continued to attend the preached word, partiat a cock-fight-and a third for pretending to be deaf cularly at Tottenham-court Chapel. Every sermon increased his sorrow and grief that he had not earlier sought the Lord. and dumb. These are called recent and authentic acIt was a considerable time before he found comfort from the counts of God's avenging providence. gospel. He has stood in the free part of the chapel, hearing So much for the miraculous interposition of Proviwith such emotion, that the tears have flowed from his eyes indence in cases where the Methodists are concerned: torrents; and when he has returned home, he has continued a we shall now proceed to a few specimens of the energy great part of the night on his knees, praying over what he had of their religious feelings.

heard.

"The change effected by the power of the Holy Spirit on bis heart now became visible to all. Nor did he halt between two opinions, as some persons do; he became at once a decided character, and gave up for ever all his vain pursuits and amusements; devoting himself with as much resolution and diligence to the service of God, as he had formerly done to folly.-Ev. Mag. p. 194.

Mr. Roberts's feelings in the month of May, 1793.

'But, all this time, my soul was stayed upon God; my desires increased, and my mind was kept in a sweet praying frame, a going out of myself, as it were, and taking shelter iu him. Every breath I drew, ended in a prayer. I felt myself helpless as an infant dependent upon God for all

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things. I was in a constant daily expectation of receiving | ous appearance. I heard things unutterable. I heard their all I wanted; and, on Friday, May 31st, under Mr. Ruther- songs and hallelujahs of thanksgiving and praise, with unford's sermon, though entirely independent of it, (for Ispeakable rapture. I felt joy unutterable and full of glory. could not give any account of what he had been preaching I then applied to my conductor, and requested leave to join about,) I was given to feel that God was waiting to be very the happy throng."-Ev. Mag. p. 251. gracious to nie; the spirit of prayer and supplication was given me, and such an assurance that I was accepted in the Beloved, as I cannot describe, but which I shall never forget.'-Meth. Mag. p. 35.

Mrs. Elizabeth Price and her Attendants hear sacred music on a sudden.

"A few nights before her death, while some neighbours and her husband were sitting up with her, a sudden and joyful sound of music was heard by all present, although some of them were carnal people; at which time she thought she saw her crucified Saviour before her, speaking these words with power to her soul, "Thy sins are forgiven thee, and I love thee freely." After this she never doubted of her acceptance with God; and on Christmas day following was taken to celebrate the Redeemer's birth in the Paradise of God. MICHAEL COUSIN.'-Meth. Mag. p. 137.

The following we consider to be one of the most shocking histories we ever read. God only knows how many such scenes take place in the gloomy annals of Methodism.

-, grandson 'A young man, of the name of S C. to a late eminent Dissenting minister, and brought up by He -g, about the year 1803. him, came to reside at Kattended at the Baptist place of worship, not only on the Lord's day, but frequently at the week-day lectures and prayer-meetings. He was supposed by some to be seriously inclined; but his opinion of himself was, that he had never experienced that divine change, without which no man can be saved.

However that might be, there is reason to believe he had erable condition as a sinner. In June 1806, these convicbeen for some years under powerful convictions of his mistions were observed to increase, and that in a more than

T. L., a Sailor on board of the Stag Frigate has a special common degree. From that time he went into no company,

revelation from our Saviour.

'October 26th, being the Lord's day, he had a remarkable manifestation of God's love to his soul. That blessed morning he was much grieved by hearing the wicked use profane language, when Jesus revealed himself to him, and impressed on his mind those words, "Follow Me." This was a precious day to him.'-Meth. Mag. p. 140.

The manner in which Mr. Thomas Cook was accustomed to accost S. B.

• Whenever he met me in the street, his salutation used to be, "Have you free and lively intercourse with God to-day? Are you giving your whole heart to God?" I have known him on such occasions speak in so pertinent a manner, that I have been astonished at his knowledge of my state. Meeting me one morning, he said, "I have been praying for you; you have had a sore conflict, though all is well now." At another time he asked, "Have you been much exercised these few days, for I have been led to pray that you might especially have suffering grace."'-Meth. Mag. p. 247.

Mr. John Kestin on his death-bed.

"Oh, my dear, I am now going to glory, happy, happy, happy. I am going to sing praises to God and the Lamb; I am going to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. I think I can see my Jesus without a glass between. I can, I feel I can, discern, my title clear to mansions in the skies.' Come, Lord Jesus, come! why are thy chariot-wheels so long delaying?"-Ev. Mag. p. 124.

but, when he was not at work, kept in his chamber, where he was employed in singing plaintive hymns, and bewail. ing his lost and perishing state.

He had about him several religious people; but could not be induced to open his mind to them, or to impart to to increase it or not, it did increase, till his health was any one the cause of his distress. Whether this contributed greatly affected by it, and he was scarcely able to work at his business.

While he was at meeting on Lord's day, September 14th, he was observed to labour under very great emotion of mind, especially when he heard the following words. "Sin ner, if you die without an interest in Christ, you will sink into the regions of eternal death."

On the Saturday evening following, he intimated to the mistress of the house where he lodged, that some awful judgment was about to come upon him; and as he should not be able to be at meeting next day, requested that an attendant might be procured to stay with him. She replied, that she would herself stay at home, and wait upon him; which she did.

On the Lord's day he was in great agony of mind. His mother was sent for, and some religious friends visited him; but all was of no avail. That night was a night dreadful beyond conception. The horror which he endured brought on all the symptoms of 1aging madness. He desired the attendants not to come near him, lest they should be burnt. He said that "the bed-curtains were in flames,-that he smelt the brimstone,-that devils were come to fetch him,-that there was no hope for him, for that he had sinned against light and conviction, and that he should certainly go to hell." It was with difficulty he could be kept in bed.

'An apothecary being sent for, as soon as he entered the house, and heard his dreadful howlings, he inquired if he in-had not been bitten by a mad dog. His appearance, likewise, seemed to justify such a suspicion, his countenance resembling that of a wild beast more than of a man.

The Reverend Mr. Mead's sorrow for his sins.
This wrought him up to temporary desperation; his
expressible grief poured itself forth in groans: "Oh that I
had never sinned against God! I have a hell here upon
earth, and there is a hell for me in eternity!" One Lord's
day, very early in the morning, he was awoke by a tem-
pest of thunder and lightning; and imagining it to be the
end of the world, his agony was great, supposing the great
day of divine wrath was come, and he unprepared: but
happy to find it not so.'-Ev. Mag. p. 147.

Similar case of Mr. John Robinson.

"Though he had no feverish heat, yet his pulse beat above 150 in a minute. To abate the mania, a quantity of blood was taken from him, a blister was applied, his head was shaved, cold water was copiously poured over him, and fox-glove was administered. By these means his fury was abated; but his mental agony continued, and all the symp toms of madness which his bodily strength, thus reduced, would allow, till the following Thursday. On that day he seemed to have recovered his reason, and to be calm in his mind. In the evening he sent for the apothecary; and

About two hours before he died, he was in great agony of body and mind: it appeared that the enemy was permit-wished to speak with him by himself. The latter, on his ted to struggle with him; and being greatly agitated, he cried coming, desired every one to leave the room, and thus adout, "Ye powers of darkness, begone!" This however did dressed him: "C, have you not something on your not last long: "the prey was taken from the mighty, and mind?" "Ay," answered he, "that is it!" He then acthe lawful captive delivered," although he was not permit-knowledged that, early in the month of June, he had gone ted to tell of his deliverance, but lay quite still and com- to a fair in the neighbourhood, in company with a number posed.'-Ev. Mag. p. 177.

of wicked young men: that they drank at a public-house together till he was in a measure intoxicated; and that from The Reverend William Tennant in an heavenly trance. thence they went into other company, where he was crim"While I was conversing with my brother," said he, inally connected with a harlot. "I have been a miserable "on the state of my soul, and the fears I had entertained creature," continued he, "ever since but during the last for my future welfare, I found myself in an instant, in an- three days and three nights, I have been in a state of desperation." He intimated to the apothecary, that he could other state of existence, under the direction of a superior being, who ordered me to follow him. I was wafted along, not bear to tell this story to his minister: "But," said he, I know not how, till I beheld at a distance an ineffable" do you inform him that I shall not die in despair; for glory, the impression of which on my mind it is impossible light has broken in upon me; I have been led to the great to communicate to mortal man. I immediately reflected on Sacrifice for sin, and I now hope in him for salvation." 'From this time his mental distress ceased, his counte my happy change; and thought, Well, blessed be God! I am safe at last, notwithstanding all my fears. I saw an in-nance became placid, and his conversation, instead of numerable host of happy beings surrounding the inexpressible glory, in acts of adoration and joyous worship; but I did not ce any bodily shape or representation in the glori

being taken up as before with fearful exclamations concerning devils and the wrath to come, was now confined to the dying love of Jesus! The apothecary was of opi

nion, that if his strength had not been so much exhausted, he would now have been in a state of religious transport. His nervous system, however, had received such a shock, that his recovery was doubtful; and it seemed certain, that if he did recover, he would sink into a state of idiocy. He survived this interview but a few days.-Ev. Mag. p. 412,

413.

A religious observer stands at a turnpike gate on a Sunday, to witness the profane crowd passing by; he sees a man driving very clumsily in a gig; the experience of the driver provokes the following pious obser

the elect-the people of God. The rest of mankind are carnal people-the people of this world, &c. &c. The children of Israel were not more separated, through the favour of God, from the Egyptians, than the Me thodists are, in their own estimation, from the rest of mankind. We had hitherto supposed that the dis ciples of the Established churches in England and Scotland had been Christians; and that, after bap tism, duly performed by the appointed minister, and participation in the customary worship of these two churches, Christianity was the religion of which they were to be considered as members. We see, how. What (I said to mysel) if a single outward circum-ever, in these publications, men of twenty or thirty stance should happen! Should the horse take fright, or years of age first called to a knowledge of Christ un the wheel on either side get entangled, or the gig upset-in der a sermon by the Rev. Mr. Venn,-or first admitted either case what can preserve him? And should a morn-into the church of Christ under a sermon by the Rev. Mr. ing so fair and promising bring on evil before night-Romaine. The apparent admission turns out to have should death on his pale horse appear-what follows? My been a mere mockery; and the pseudo-christian to mind shuddered at the images I had raised."'-Ev. Mag have had no religion at all, till the business was really and effectually done under these sermons by Mr. Venn and Mr. Romaine.

vations.

p. 555, 569.

Miss Louisa Cooke's rapturous state. From this period she lived chiefly in retirement, either in reading the sacred volume on her knees, or in pouring out her soul in prayer to God. While thus employed, she was not unfrequently indulged with visits from her gracious Lord; and sometimes she felt herself to be surrounded, as it were, by his gracious presence. After her return to Bristol, her frame of mind became so heavenly, that she seemed often to be dissolved in the love of God her Savicur.'-Ex. Mag. p. 576, 577.

Objection to Almanacks.

An awful and general departure from the Christian
Faith in the Church of England.

A second volume of Mr. Cooper's sermons is before us stamped with the same broad seal of truth and excellence as the former. Amidst the awful and general departure from the faith, as once delivered to the saints, in the Church of England, and sealed by the blood of our reformers, it is pleasing to observe that there is a remnant, according to the election of grace, who continue rising up to testify the gospel of the grace of God, and to call back their fellows to the consideration of the great and leading doctrines on by law established. The author of these sermons, avoiding all matters of more doubtful disputation, avowedly attaches himself to the great fundamental truths; and on the two substantial pillars, the Jachin and Boaz of the living temple, erects his superstructure. 1. Justification by faith, without works, free and full, by grace alone, through the redemption which is in Jesus Christ, stands at the commencement of the first volume; and on its side rises in the beauty of holiness,' &c.-Ev. Mag. p. 79.

'Let those who have been partial to such vain produc-which the Reformation was built, and the Church of England tions, only read Isaiah xlvii. 13, and Daniel ii. 27; and they will here see what they are to be accounted of, and in what company they are to be found; and let them learn to despise their equivocal and artful insinuations, which are too frequently blended with profanity; for is it not profanity in them to attempt to palm their frauds upon mankind by scripture quotations, which they seldom rail to do, especially Judges v. 20, and Job xxxviii. 31? neither of which teaches nor warrants any such practice. Had Baruch or Deborah consulted the stars? No such thing.' -Ev, Mag. p. 600.

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Mr. Robinson called to the knowledge of Christ under
Mr. Venn's Sermon.

Mr. Robinson was called in early life to the knowledge of Christ, under a sermon at St. Dunstan's, by the late Rev. Mr. Venn, from Ezek. xxxvi. 25, 26; the remembrance of which greatly refreshed his soul upon his death-bed,'-Ev. Mag. p. 176.

Christianity introduced into the Parish of Launton, near Bicester, in the year 1807.

'A very general spirit of inquiry having appeared for some time in the village of Launton, near Bicester, some serious persons were excited to communicate to them the word of

'A gentleman's servant, who has left a good place be cause he was ordered to deny his master when actually at home, wishes something on this subject may be introduced into this work, that persons who are in the habit of deny-life.'-Ev. Mag. p. 350. ing themselves in the above manner may be convinced of its evil.'-Ev. Mag. p. 72.

We learn in page 128, Meth. Mag., that twelve months had elapsed from the time of Mrs. Cocker's joining the people of God, before she obtained a clear

A religious Hoy sets off every week for Margate.

Doubts if it is right to take interest for money. Usury.-Sir, I beg the favour of you to insert the follow-sense of forgiveness. ing case of conscience. I I frequently find in scripture, that Usury is particularly condemned; and that it is represented as the character of a good man, that "he hath not given forth upon usury, neither hath taken any increase," Ezek. xviii. 8, &c. I wish, therefore, to know how such passages are to be understood; and whether the taking of interest for money, as is universally practiced among us, can be reconciled with the word and will of God? Q. Ev. Mag. p. 74.

Dancing ill suited for a creature on trial for eternity. If dancing be a waste of time; if the precious hours devoted to it may be better employed; it it be a species of trifing ill suited to a creature on trial for eternity, and hastening towards it on the swift wings of time; if it be incompatible with genuine repentance, true faith in Christ, supreme love to God, and a state of genuine devotedness to him, then is dancing a practice utterly opposed to the whole spirit and temper of Christianity, and subversive of the best interests of the rising generation.'-Meth. Mag. p. 127, 128.

Religious Passengers accommodated.-To the Editor-Sir, it afforded me considerable pleasure to see upon the cover of your Magazine for the present month, an advertisement, announcing the establishment of a packet, to sail weekly between London and Margate, during the season; which appears to have been set on foot for the accommodation of religious characters; and in which "no profane conversation is to be allowed."

To those among the followers of a crucified Redeemer, who are in the habit of visiting the Isle of Thanet in the summer, and who, for the sea air, or from other circumstances, prefer travelling by water, such a conveyance must certainly be a desideratum, especially if they have expe rienced a mortification similar to that of the writer, in the course of the last summer, when shut up in a cabin with a mixed multitude, who spoke almost all languages but that of Canaan. Totally unconnected with the concern, and personally a stranger to the worthy owner, I take the liberty of recommending this vessel to the notice of my fellowThe Methodists consider themselves as constituting to patronize and encourage an undertaking that has the Christians; persuaded that they will think themselves bound a chosen and separate people, living in a land of athe-honour of the dear Redeemer for its professed object. It ists and voluptuaries. The expressions by which ought ever to be remembered, that every talent we possess, they designate their own sects, are the dear people-whether large or small, is given us in trust to be laid out for

Pray for us."Ev. Mag, 84.

The testimony of a profane Officer to the worth of Pious
Sailors.

God; and I have often thought that Christians act incon- | hearers every night at six o'clock. How unworthy am I! sistently with their high profession, when they omit, even in their most common and trivial expenditures, to give a decided preference to the friend of their Lord. I do not, however, an tipate any such ground of complaint in this instance; but rather believe that the religious world in general will cheerfully unite with me, while I most cordially wish success to the Princess of Wales Yacht, and pray that she may ever sail under the divine protection and blessing; that the humble followers of Him who spoke the storm into a calm, when crossing the lake of Gennesareth, may often feel their hearts glowing with sacred ardour, while in her cabins they enjoy sweet communion with their Lord and with each other; and that strangers, who may be provi dentially brought among them, may see so much of the beauty and excellency of the religion of Jesus exemplified in their conduct and conversation, that they may be constrained to say, "We will go with you, for we perceive that God is with you.-Your God shall be our God, and his people shall henceforth be our chosen companions and associates." I am, Mr. Editor, your obliged friend and sister in the gospel, E. T.-'Ev, Mag. p. 268.

Mr. Editor-In the mouth of two or three witnesses, a truth shall be established. I recently met with a pleasing confirmation of a narrative, stated some time since in your Magazine. I was surprised by a visit from an old acquaintance of mine the other day, who is now an officer of rank in his Majesty's navy. In the course of conversation, I was shocked at the profane oaths that perpetually interrupted his sentences; and took an opportunity to express my regret that such language should be so common among sing many solemn imprecations' "no officer can live at sea so valuable a body of men. "Sir," said he, still intersperwithout swearing;-not one of my men would mind a word without an oath; it is common sea-language. If we were not to swear, the rascals would take us for lubbers, stare in our faces, and leave us to do cur commands ourselves. I never knew but one exception; and that was extraordinary. I declare, believe me 'tis true (suspecting that I A religious newspaper is announced in the Ev. M. dists, on board the Victory, Lord Nelson's ship, (to be sure might not credit it,) there was a set of fellows called Methofor September.-It is said of common newspapers, he was rather a religious man himself!) and those men neThat they are absorbed in temporal concerns, while ver wanted swearing at. The dogs were the best seamen the consideration of those which are eternal is postponed; on board. Every man knew his duty, and every man did the business of this life has superseded the claims of his duty. They used to meet together and sing hymns; and immortality; and the monarchs of the world have nobody dared molest them. The commander would not engrossed an attention which would have been more have suffered it had they attempted it. They were allowed a mess by themselves; and never mixed with the other properly devoted to the Saviour of the universe.' It men. I have often heard them sing away myself; and 'tis is then stated, that the columns of this paper (The true, I assure you, but not one of them was either killed or Instructor, Price 6d.) will be supplied by pious re-wounded at the battle of Trafalgar, though they did their flections; suitable comments to improve the dispensa-duty as well as any men. No, not one of the psalm-singing tions of Providence will be introduced; and the whole gentry was even hurt; and there the fellows are swimming conducted with an eye to our spiritual, as well as away in the Bay of Biscay at this very time, singing like the dtemporal welfare. The work will contain the latest They are now under a new commander; but news up to four o'clock on the day of publication, to- selves. These were the only fellows that I ever knew to still are allowed the same privileges, and mess by themgether with the most recent religious occurrences. do their duty without swearing; and I will do them justice The prices of stock, and correct market-tables, will to say they do it." J. C.-Ev. Mag. p. 119, 120. also be accurately detailed.'-Ev. Mag. September Advertisement. The Eclectic Review is also understood

to be carried on upon Methodistical principles. Nothing can evince more strongly the influence which Methodism now exercises upon common life, and the fast hold it has got of the people, than the advertisements which are circulated every month in these very singular publications. On the cover of a single number, for example, we have the following :

These people are spread over the face of the whole earth in the shape of missionaries.-Upon the subject of missions we shall say very little or nothing at present, because we reserve it for another article in a subsequent Number. But we cannot help remarking the magnitude of the collections made in favour of the missionaries at the Methodistical chapels, when com pared with the collections for any common object of charity in the orthodox churches and chapels.

"Wanted, by Mr. Turner, shoemaker, a steady apprentice; he will have the privilege of attending the ministry was presented by the Committee; from which it appeared, Religious Tract Society.-The most satisfactory Report of the gospel;-a premium expected, p. 3.-Wanted, a that since the commencement of the Institution in the year serious young woman, as servant of all work, 3.-Wanted, 1799, upwards of Four Millions of Religious Tracts have a man of serious character, who can shave, 3.-Wanted, a been issued under the auspices of the Society; and that conserious woman to assist in a shop, 3.-A young person in siderably more than one-fourth of that number have been the millinery line wishes to be in a serious family, 4-sold during the last year.'-Ev. Mag. p. 284. Wants a place, a young man who has brewed in a serious family, 4.-Ditto, a young woman of evangelical principles, These tracts are dropped in villages by the Metho4-Wanted, an active serious shopman, 5.-To be sold, an dists, and thus every chance for conversion afforded in three places within half a mile, 5.-A single gentleman to the common people. There is a proposal in one may be accommodated with lodging in a small serious of the numbers of the volumes before us, that travelfamily, 5. To let, a genteel first floor in an airy situation near the Tabernacle, 6.-Wanted, a governess, of evangelical principles and corresponding character, 10.' The religious vessel we have before spoken of, is

eligible residence, with sixty acres of land; gospel preached

thus advertised:

The Princess of Wales Yacht, J. Chapman, W. Bourn, master, by divine permission, will leave Ralph's Quay every Friday, 11.' &c. &c.—July Ev. Mag.

After the specimens we have given of these people, any thing which is said of their activity can very easily be credited. The army and navy appear to be particular objects of their attention.

British Navy. It is with peculiar pleasure we insert the following extract of a letter from the pious chaplain of a man-of-war, to a gentleman at Gosport, intimating the power and grace of God manifested towards our brave seamen. "Off Cadiz, Nov. 26, 1806.-My dear friend-A fleet for England found us in the night, and is just going away. I have only to tell you that the work of God seems to prosper. Many are under convictions;-some, I trust, are converted. But my own health is suffering much, nor shall I probably be able long to bear it. The ship is like a tabernacle; and really there is much external reformation. Capt. raises no objection. I have near a hundred

lers, for every pound they spend on the road, should fling one shilling's worth of these tracts out of the chaise window;-thus taking his pleasures at 5 per cent. for the purposes of doing good.

Every Christian who expects the protection and bles sing of God, ought to take with him as many shillings' worth, at least, of cheap Tracts to throw on the road, and leave at inns, as he takes out pounds to expend on himself and family. This is really but a trifling sacrifice. It is a highly reasonable one; and one which God will accept.-E. Mag. p. 405.

It is part of their policy to have a great change of Ministers.

Same day, the Rev. W. Haward, from Hoxton Academy, was ordained over the Independent church at Rendham, Suffolk. Mr. Pickles, of Walpole, began with a prayer and reading; Mr. Price, of Woodbridge delivered the introduc tory discourse, and asked the questions; Mr. Dennant, of Halesworth, offered the ordination prayer; Mr. Shufflebottom, of Bungay, gave the charge from Acts xx. 28; Mr. Vincent, of Deal, the general prayer; and Mr. Walford of Yarmouth, preached to the people from 2 Phil. ii. 16.'— Ev. Mag. p. 429.

Chapels opened.-Hambledon, Bucks, Sept. 22.-Eighteen months ago this parish was destitute of the gospel: the reople have now one of the Rev. G. Collison's students, the Rev. Mr. Eastmead, settled among them. Mr. English of

Wooburn, and Mr. Frey, preached on the occasion; and effecting an object which providence has placed in our Mr. Jones of London, Mr. Churchill of Henley, Mr. Red-power. The doctrine of the immediate and perpetual ford, of Windsor, and Mr. Barratt, now of Petersfield, pray-interference of Divine Providence, is not true. If two ed.'-Ev. Mag. p. 533.

men travel the same road, the one to rob, the other to Methodism in his Majesty's ship Tonnant-A letter from the relieve a fellow-creature who is starving; will any

Sail-maker.

It appears also, from p. 193, Meth. Mag., that the same principles prevail on board his Majesty's ship Sea-horse, 44 guns. And in one part of Evan. Mag., great hopes are entertained of the 25th regiment. We believe this is the number; but we quote this fact from memory.

but the most fanatic contend, that they do not both It is with great satisfaction that I can now inform you run the same chance of falling over a stone, and break. God has deigned in a yet greater degree, to own the weak ing their legs? and is it not matter of fact, that the efforts of his servant to turn many from Satan to himself. robber often returns safe, and the just man sustains Many are called here, as is plain to be seen by their pen- the injury? Have not the soundest divines, of both sive looks and deep sighs. And if they would be obedient churches, always urged this unequal distribution of to the heavenly call instead of grieving the Spirit of grace, good and evil, in the present state, as one of the I dare say we should soon have near half the ship's compa- strongest natural arguments for a future state of retri ny brought to God. I doubt not, however, but, as I have bution? Have they not contended, and well and adcast my bread upon the waters, it will be found after many days. Our 13 are now increased to upwards of 30. Surely mirably contended, that the supposition of such a state the Lord delighteth not in the death of him that dieth. is absolutely necessary to our notion of the justice of Meth Mag. p. 139. God-absolutely necessary to restore order to that moral confusion which we all observe and deplore in the present world? The man who places religion upon a false basis is the greatest enemy to religion. If victory is always to the just and good, how is the fortune of impious conquerors to be accounted for? Why do they erect dynasties, and found families which last for centuries? The reflecting mind whom you have We must remember, in addition to these trifling instructed in this manner, and for present effect only, specimens of their active disposition, that the Metho-naturally comes upon you hereafter with difficulties dists have found a powerful party in the House of of this sort; he finds he has been deceived; and you Commons, who by the neutrality which they affect, will soon discover that, in breeding up a fanatic, you and partly adhere to, are courted both by ministers have unwittingly laid the foundation for an atheist. and opposition; that they have gained complete pos- The honest and orthodox method is to prepare young session of the India-House; and under the pretence, people for the world, as it actually exists; to tell or, perhaps with the serious intention of educating them that they will often find vice perfectly successyoung people for India, will take care to introduce ful, virtue exposed to a long train of afflictions; that (as much as they dare without provoking attention) they must bear this patiently, and look to another their own particular tenets. In fact, one thing must world for its rectification. always be taken for granted respecting these people, -that wherever they gain a footing, or whatever be the institutions to which they give birth, proselylism will be their main object; everything else is a mere instrument-this is their principal aim. When every proselyte is not only an addition to their temporal power, but when the act of conversion which gains a vote, saves (as they suppose) a soul from destruction, -it is quite needless to state, that every faculty of their minds will be dedicated to this most important of all temporal and eternal concerns.

Their attack upon the Church is not merely confined to publications; it is generally understood that they have a very considerable fund for the purchase of livings, to which, of course, ministers of their own profession are always presented.

2. The second doctrine which it is necessary to notice among the Methodists, is the doctrine of inward impulse and emotions, which, it is quite plain, must lead, if universally insisted upon, and preached among the common people, to every species of folly and enormity. When a human being believes that his internal feelings are the monitions of God, and that these monitions must govern his conduct; and when a great stress is purposely laid upon these inward feelings in all the discourses from the pulpit; it is, of course. impossible to say to what a pitch of extrava gance mankind may not be carried, under the influence of such dangerous doctrines.

3. The Methodists hate pleasure and amusements; no theatre, no cards, no dancing, no punchinello, no dancing dogs, no blind fiddlers; all the amusements Upon the foregoing facts, and upon the spirit evinced of the rich and of the poor must disappear, wherever by these extracts, we shall make a few comments. these gloomy people get a footing. It is not the abuse 1. It is obvious, that this description of Christians of pleasure which they attack, but the interspersion entertain very erroneous and dangerous notions of the of pleasure, however much it is guarded by good sense present judgments of God. A belief, that Providence and moderation; it is not only wicked to hear the interferes in all the little actions of our lives, refers licentious plays of Congreve, but wicked to hear Henry all merit and demerit to bad and good fortune; and the Vth, or the School for Scandal; it is not only discauses the successful man to be always considered as sipated to run about to all the parties in London and a good man and the unhappy man as the object of Edinburgh, but dancing is not fit for a being who is divine vengeance. It furnishes ignorant and design- preparing himself for Eternity. Ennui, wretchedness, ing men with a power which is sure to be abused:- melancholy, groans and sighs, are the offerings which the cry of, a judgment, a judgment, it is always easy these unhappy men make to a Deity who has covered to make, but not easy to resist. It encourages the the earth with gay colours, and scented it with rich grossest superstitions; for if the Deity rewards and perfumes; and shown us, by the plan and order of his punishes on every slight occasion, it is quite impossi- works, that he has given to man something better ble, but that such an helpless being as man will set than a bare existence, and scattered over his creation himself at work to discover the will of Heaven in the a thousand superfluous joys, which are totally unneappearances of outward nature, to apply all the phe-cessary to the mere support of life. nomena of thunder, lightning, wind, and every strik- 4. The Methodists lay very little stress upon prac ing appearance to the regulation of his conduct; as tical righteousness. They do not say to their people, the poor Methodist, when he rode into Piccadilly in a do not be deceitful; do not be idle; get rid of your thunder storm, and imagined that all the uproar of the bad passions; or at least (if they do say these things) elements was a mere hint to him not to preach at Mr. they say them very seldom. Not that they preach Romaine's chapel. Hence a great deal of error, and a great deal of secret misery. This doctrine of a theocracy must necessarily place an excessive power in the hands of the clergy; it applies so instantly and so tremendously to men's hopes and fears, that it must make the priest omnipotent over the people, as it always has done where it has been established. It has a great tendency to check human exertions, and to prevent the employment of those secondary means of

faith without works; for if they told the people, that they might rob and murder with impunity, the civil magistrate must be compelled to interfere with such doctrine but they say a great deal about faith, and very little about works. What are commonly called the mysterious parts of our religion, are brought into the foreground much more than the doctrines which lead to practice-and this among the lowest of the community.

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