Church. But to establish his argument, our friend should have done more than this he should have shown that there were no Gentile believers in it, for the Apostle is addressing the whole Church, not a part of it. His language at the commencement is, "Unto the Church of the Thessalonians," and it is evident that this Church consisted partly, if not mainly, of Gentiles; hence, in the 9th verse, the Apostle speaks of them as being turned to God "from dumb idols, to serve the living and true God." Yet, addressing these same characters-these once heathen Gentilesthe Apostle says, that they "knew their election of God." This fact is fatal to the theory of our respected friend. There were, doubtless, believing Jews in the Church as well as Gentiles; but as the Apostle addresses them all unitedly as the Church, making no distinction as to their nation or condition, and speaks of both unequivocally and indiscriminately as elected of God, it is evident they were mutually partakers of the same privileges, no class or nation having advantage or preference over the other: that, as before stated by the Apostle, "there was no difference between the Jew and the Greek." Similar remarks apply to the Church at Rome, at Colosse, and every other place. There is not a single passage where the terms " elected, predestinated," and others of like character, are applied to Jewish Christians to the exclusion of Gentile believers.

Mr. Brocas says, as before stated, that Anti-Calvinism cannot be maintained, unless we admit this election of Jews to the exclusion of the Gentiles. Here we differ again from our friend. We think, on the contrary, that Anti-Calvinism cannot be maintained by this admission. Indeed, the admission of this distinction between Jewish and Christian believers is to strengthen the cause of Calvinism, and overturn that of Methodism. Concede to our Calvinistic brethren that Jewish Christians were predestinated and elected in their sense of the words, and they will thank you for the concession, and find little difficulty in extending it to the Gentiles. In fact, as the phrases are applied to both Jews and Gentiles in the same sense, Mr. Brocas's concession is virtually a giving up of the whole argument in favour of Calvinism-a result, however, which we are sure is far from the design of our friend, as is manifest from other parts of his work.

Apprehensive as Mr. Brocas seems for the stability of the Arminian cause unless his views be adopted, we have no such apprehension. It is a remarkable fact, that up to the time of Augustine, no such doctrines of Calvinistic election and reprobation are found in any writer. Faber remarks, "Augustine, at the beginning of the fifth century, confessedly stands forth as the original inventor of that scheme of interpretation which in our days is usually denominated Calvinism. So then, up to the fifth century, it appears that Christians had not understood the phrases of "election, predestination," &c., in a Calvinistic sense. We are prepared to prove that those terms never do express, in the Calvinistic sense, an appointment to eternal life, whether applied to Gentile or Jew. For this, however, we have not space at present. But in the mean time we may refer the reader to what ourselves have written elsewhere on this subject: to what Abraham Scott and others have written on the same subject, and even to what Mr. Brocas himself has said in some parts of his work. We regret the occasion of opposing Mr. Brocas's sentiments, but we are sure Mr. B. would not wish the claims of personal friendship to supersede the higher claims of truth and candour.

A MANUAL OF INSTRUCTION FOR CATECHUMEN CLASSES, THE BIBLE CLASSES OF SABBATH SCHOOLS, AND CHILDREN AT HOME. By the Rev. P. J. WRIGHT. Old Testament, Part I. pp. 72. London: J. Bakewell; Partridge and Oakey.

The young people of our Sabbath schools, between sixteen and twenty years of age, have not yet received that special attention which their interesting situation demands. We rejoice, however, that attention is being awakened to the subject. It must be still more vigilantly and extensively awakened, and kept awake, ere we can ward off that accumulating danger which the state of society threatens, or secure that amount of good which the facilities and advantages of the age afford. We long to see the day when the scriptural enlightenment and sound conversion of the young will engage the special and unremitting attention of every circuit, and every minister in the Connexion, and, indeed, in all religious communities. We have been too long content with the ordinary routine of reading, spelling, &c. We must aim at imparting knowledge-scriptural and saving knowledge, in connexion, too, with historical, and even the elements of scientific knowledge. We must render knowledge and religion attractive, and the week night as well as the Sabbath must be employed in their respective departments.

With such impressions and convictions, we are glad to see the issue of the first

part of Mr. Wright's work. This part comprehends ten lessons, including a variety of interesting topics-beginning with Jehovah, and proceeding to Creation, the State of Man in Paradise, his Fall, Cain and Abel, the Deluge, &c. Each topie is introduced by some general observations of an explanatory character; then follow passages of Scripture where the subject is taught, accompanied with parallel texts, shedding light upon what may appear obscure, and evincing the harmony and connexion of one part of the sacred records with another. These texts are followed by explanations where required, and by suitable interrogations to the scholar, so as to fix his attention, and fasten the truth upon his memory and heart. We consider that Mr. Wright has exercised a sound judgment in the general arrangement and execution of his task, and that the work is highly calculated for extensive usefulness. It is quite possible some friends may, at first sight, suppose that the style is rather too elevated. But when they take into consideration that some of the subjects at the commencement, relating to the Deity and the objects of creation, are among the most difficult that have to be introduced; when they consider that the members of catechumen and bible classes consist for the most part of young people from 14 to 20 years of age; and when they remember too, that the respected author contemplates the instruction of the teacher as well as the scholar, we believe such friends will alter their views. In future, however, plainer subjects, admitting of more familiar illustrations, will necessarily give increasing interest.

The author, it appears, has modified his original design so far as not to involve upon the purchaser of the first an obligation to subscribe for the whole series-each part being made distinct in itself.

We know of no work of the kind so calculated for usefulness, and hope our Sunday-school teachers, conductors of catechumen classes, and heads of families will avail themselves of the advantages now furnished to their hand; and thus, while benefitting themselves and the rising generation, encourage the author to complete a work which has been long needed, and which he is well qualified to execute.

A VIEW OF THE EVIDENCES OF CHRISTIANITY. In Three Parts. By WILLIAM PALEY, D.D. A New Edition, with Introductory Notes and Supplement, by the REV. T. R. BIRKS, M.A., pp. 443. London: The Religious Tract Society.

However defective Paley may be regarded as a theologian, and even as a moral philosopher, yet of his perspicuity, acuteness, and conclusiveness as a logician, his "Natural Theology," "Hora Paulinæ," and "Evidences of Christianity," are durable monuments. His defective views of theology arose, not from a defective judgment, but a defective experience. In setting forth that which required only intellectual penetration and power, he stands forth unrivalled; while in that which required the teaching of the Spirit, he is often weaker than other men. It is therefore, perhaps, as great a blessing that he wrote so little on the vital elements of theology, as it is that he wrote so copiously in defence of its bulwarks. In such writings we have gigantic intellect expressing itself with an ease, a simplicity, and a perspicuity, which render his meaning as obvious to the mechanic as the scholar. The present edition of this invaluable work is enriched by one hundred pages of additional matter from the pen of Mr. Brooks. The more widely such a work is diffused through the masses of society, the more likely are they to be fortified against the sophisms of infidelity.

MONTHLY SERIES. THE ORIGIN AND PROGRESS OF LANGUAGE. pp. 196. London: Religious Tract Society.

True science holds a torch to religious truth. The evidences of the Divine origin of the sacred volume extend through all the sciences, and multiply with each succeeding age. Every year the chances of infidel sophistry are diminished, and further investigations threaten to expel the monstrosity from the universe of mind. Men may hate and resist the truth, but ere long they will not be able to disbelieve the Bible, unless they resolve to disbelieve a palpable demonstration. At one time, a cursory view of the multiplicity of languages threatened to invalidate the Mosaic account of human history; but a profound and elaborate investigation and analysis of languages, carried on simultaneously by men of various creeds, professions, and climes, are making facts converge to a point which confirms and elucidates the Mosaic narrative in a most remarkable manner. The five hundred languages spoken by mankind are proved to be but varieties of one hundred; and again, this one hundred present affinities and resemblances which give evidence of one common origin or primitive tongue, from which they have proceeded; thus harmonising with the one language of the Noachian period and the confusion of tongues at Babel. This

little work, from the pen of a scholar and christian philosopher, is beautifully written, and presents for a few pence more solid information and logical argumentation than could formerly have been procured for a considerable sum.

ATHENS: its Grandeur and Decay. pp. 192. London: The Religious Tract Society.

We have here the city of poetry, philosophy, eloquence, statuary, and martial glory viewed with a christian eye-the focus of genius, learning, and philosophy, contemplated, not merely as reflected from the pages of classic lore, but as brought to the faithful mirror of sacred truth. While much valuable information is furnished on the antiquities of this famous city, illustrated by numerous beautiful engravings, every thing is estimated by a Divine standard; and it is vividly shown that Athens was the most affecting and striking exemplification of the apostle's words: "The world by wisdom knew not God." The wretched efforts to find truth and happiness

by those who idolize reason, and the gratitude we owe to God for the transcendent benefits of the Christian revelation, are made apparent. This work should be placed in the hands of all juvenile classics, and its circulation amongst all classes and all ages cannot but be very beneficial.

A HISTORY OF THE VAUDOIS CHURCH FROM ITS ORIGIN, AND OF THE VAUDOIS OF PIEDMONT TO THE PRESENT DAY. By ANTOINE MONASTIER. Translated

from the French, pp. 432. London: The Religious Tract Society.

The history of a people who for so many centuries have borne such a noble testimony to evangelical truth, who, while nearly all Europe succumbed to papal innovations and usurpation, resisted the imperious assumptions of antichrist, and yielded armies of martyrs in defence of the freedom, the spirituality, and purity of the Church, cannot fail to be interesting to every Christian. The history before us is portable, yet sufficiently copious for the general reader. It exhibits the indefatigable industry of the author, himself a son of the Vaudois Church, who has devoted more than ten years to accomplish the wish of his life. The volume presents a condensed, but lucid account of the remarkable events connected with the Vaudois people, with a statement of their doctrines and habits, from their earliest period to the present time. Its appearance is seasonable, and its circulation, which we hope will be extensive, is calculated to increase a just abhorrence of popery, and foster a scriptural regard for the blessings of Protestant Christianity, and especially of the Holy Scriptures, a tenacious adherence to which was the foundation of all the excellencies and heroic virtues which so honourably distinguished the Vaudois Churches. THE LIFE OF MRS. SAVAGE. BY SIR JOHN BICKERTON WILLIAMS, Knt., LL.D., F.S.A., &c. &c. A New Edition, pp. 228. London: The Religious Tract Society. Mrs. Savage was the daughter of Philip Henry, and sister of Matthew, the eminent commentator. The "Henry" family were richly gifted both by nature and grace; the excellent qualities of the puritan father were inherited both by son and daughter. The life of Mrs. Savage is the feminine counterpart of her brother Matthew. The same sobriety of judgment, cheerfulness of temper, simplicity of heart, sprightliness of remark, spirituality of mind, communion with God, and obedient deference to his holy will, shine with remarkable uniformity in both. Mrs. Savage wrote her diary, consisting of many volumes, from the copious materials of which the present work is compiled. We never met with a more interesting and profitable representation of domestic piety.

THE TAHTAR TRIBES. pp. 192. London: Religious Tract Society.

Throughout western and central Asia there are numerous tribes of a wandering race, whose progenitors in different periods have descended in warlike hordes upon the civilized and luxuriant nations which stretch from China to the Adriatic Sea, and whose conquests have changed the aspect of society, overturned ancient dynasties, and placed new monarchs on the thrones of China, India, Persia, and the northern parts of Greece. These tribes are of the Tahtarian race, of whose history but little has been known by the generality of mankind. This volume has been written by one who has travelled among them, and supplies valuable information as to their origin, their internal organization, their pastoral and agricultural usages, their costumes and religious state, with numerous miscellaneous facts. The work is well written, under the influence of christian and enlightened views; and the author advocates the sending out of missionaries amongst them, as a step calculated to introduce the Gospel among the Mahommedeans, to whose religion the Tah tars on the frontiers nominally belong.

HARTFIELD; or, Emily at School. pp. 163. London: Religious Tract Society, A work illustrating by incident and example the commencement and progress of a saving work of grace, under the affectionate solicitude and pious fidelity of devont managers in a ladies' boarding school. The work is well adapted to promote and foster early piety. We could wish the work to be read by every young lady, and it would be well for society if every young ladies' boarding school were conducted on the principle here pourtrayed.

OUR ENGLISH BIBLE. pp. 192. London: Religious Tract Society.

This volume presents a succint account of English translations and translators, derived from original authorities. It is written by an author well qualified for his task-the writer of the Introduction prefixed to "Baxter's Hexapla." It is an excellent compendium of facts with which every Englishman should be conversant who "reads and reveres the sacred page."

THE CHILD'S HELP TO SELF-EXAMINATION AND PRAYER. By HELEN HERSCHELL. pp. 127. Third Thousand. London: Aylott and Jones.

Sound in doctrine; solid and judicious in matter; faithful and heart-searching in manner; simple and appropriate in style.

THE METHODIST ALMANACK FOR 1849. By JOHN HARRISON. pp. 93. London: The Wesleyan" Office, 59, Fleet-street; Ward and Co., and John Snow, Paternoster Row.

This Almanack supplies a desideratum which has long been felt by the Wesleyan family. Besides the ordinary information furnished by almanacks in general, it supplies statistical intelligence on all subjects connected with the Wesleyan denomination, our own community, and all the branches of the Wesleyan family, and the Bible Christians; together with the stations of the preachers in each denomination for the present ecclesiastical year. Statistical intelligence is also afforded respecting the Established Church, the Congregational Union, the Presbyterian Church in England, the Society of Friends, the Baptists, Moravians, Popery in Great Britain, the Free Church and other religions denominations in Scotland; and to these are added the numerous philanthropic institutions of the day, not only in England, but among protestants on the Continent and in America. It is, indeed, a condensed cyclopædia of general intelligence on Methodism and religious statistics. No Methodist family should be without a copy of this excellent almanack.

THE CHRISTIAN ALMANACK, 1849. pp. 77. THE TRACT SOCIETY PENNY ALMANACK FOR 1849. pp. 12. THE SHEET ALMANACK. London: Religious Tract Society.

The first affords valuable information on almost all topics of interest to man as a member of the Church and a citizen of the world. The two latter are excellent in their kind and are crowded with information.

EVERY CHILD'S HISTORY OF ENGLAND. From the Earliest Period to the Present Time. By MISS CORNER. London: Dean and Son.

The general plan and style of the book are well adapted to communicate instruction to the minds of children; but as protestants and lovers of religious truth, we consider that there are some serious defects and faults in this book. The reformation from popery is passed over as an event of no importance and involving no great principles. While censures, indeed, are cast upon Henry for putting down monasteries, no mention is made of the freedom and spiritual blessings introduced by the reformation. The translation of the Bible under Cranmer is never hinted at. Indeed, no mention is made of Cranmer, Latimer, Ridley, Hooper, or any of the distinguished reformers. Queen Mary is slightly censured, but apologized for; while Elizabeth's acts are designated "cruel." The Puritans are sneered at, and the merriment and "fun" encouraged by Charles II. are commended. Such a book we could not put into the hands of our children, unless we wished them either to turn papists or cherish a perfect indifference to the sound principles of religion.

THE WHITE SLAVE; a Life of John Newton. Written for Young Children. By G. E. SARGENT. pp. 100. London: Benjamin L. Green.

The principal events in the life of that extraordinary man, John Newton, are narrated in the plain and simple language which a child may understand. We commend the author's design. In introducing the biography of such men to the acquaintance of children he is sowing in their minds great principles, which under the Divine blessing are calculated to form them to habits of virtue, faith, and holiness. We wish him success in his undertaking.

They supply

SCRIPTURE BIRDS. pp. 128. SCRIPTURE QUADRUPEDS. pp. 128. These little volumes are published by the Religious Tract Society. much valuable information on the zoology of Scripture, and the subjects are richly illustrated by woodcuts beautifully executed.

THE UNION HYMN-BOOK FOR SCHOLARS. London: Sunday School Union. THE DUTY OF THE CHURCH OF CHRIST TO THE SUNDAY SCHOOL. From the Prize Essay. By MRS. DAVIDS. London: Sunday School Union.

THE BIBLE CLASS MAGAZINE, a Religious Miscellany for Senior Scholars, Junior Teachers, and rising Youth. London: Sunday School Union.

THE SUNDAY SCHOOL UNION MAGAZINE FOR TEACHERS. OCTOBER, 1848. SCRIPTURAL ORDINATION neither a Sacrament nor a Form. By the Rev. ANDREW REED. pp. 21. London: Jarrold and Sons.

A BISHOP'S CHARGE TO THE LAITY, in Answer to a Bishop's Charge to the Clergy. Being two Discourses on Church Authority and Sacramental Efficacy. By the Rev. BREWIN GRANT, B.A. pp. 32. London: John Snow.

THE CHURCH OF CHRIST; her Duty and Auxiliaries. By a PLAIN MAN. pp. 59. London: Aylott and Jones.

THE PATIENCE OF THE CHRISTIAN WORKMAN; a Sermon preached at Ebenezer Chapel, West Bromwich, before the Staffordshire Association of Congregational Churches. By the Rev. WATSON SMITH. pp. 27. London: Hamilton, Adams, and Co.

THE WATER CURE JOURNAL FOR NOVEMBER, 1848. London: J. Gadsby.

OBITUARIES AND RECENT DEATHS.

JAMES DALTON.

JAMES DALTON was born August 9th, 1826, at a place called the Moss, near Lisburn, Ireland. He was grandson to old William Dalton, who built the class-room. His father and mother are members of our Church, and have preaching and a class at their house, so that he was blessed with the means of grace from his youth, and taught the way of salvation both by precept and example. He soon became the subject of religious impressions, and was religiously inclined from his youth. When very young he joined a class of boys that met in Zion Chapel, Priesthill. He loved the Holy Scriptures from a child; and the first shilling he ever received that he could call his own was devoted to the purchase of a Bible, and the last shilling he received as a present when on his death-bed, was devoted to the same object. The donor requested him to keep the shilling, and he would give him a Bible, which he left to his brother John. He informed me that when very young he found peace with God, and was very happy. He saw that it was his duty to hold family worship in his father's family, but was deterred by the consideration of his own youth and unfitness for the

duty; the spirit was willing, but the flesh was weak. This neglect of duty left him a guilty conscience; he felt condemned, lost his peace, and never enjoyed the same degree of happiness till a little before his death. It cost him agonies and tears, and much wrestling with God. He was afflicted with consumption. I visited him often during his illness, and reasoned with him from the word of God, pointed him to the invitations, the promises, the ability and willingness of Christ to save, the efficacy of his blood. He said he knew all these, "But I cannot believe; how can I believe?" He was much comforted and blessed after we engaged in prayer, One of the Priesthill leaders, G. B., visited him, and in conversation asked him, "Do you believe Christ is able to save you?" He replied, "Yes." "Then praise God that he is able to save you." "I do praise God that he is able to save me." "Do you believe he is willing to save you?" "I do believe he is willing to save me." "Then praise him that he is willing to save you." "I do praise him that he is willing to save me." "Do you believe God will save you?" "I do believe God will save me, and I feel he has saved me; praise God, he has saved me." His doubts and fears were all removed; he was filled with peace and