ADVERTISEMENT TO THE FIRST EDITION. THE substance of the ensuing treatise was published in the form of an occasional sermon, in 1787, and though it did not attract any general attention, it was so favourably received by a few respectable persons, that the author has been repeatedly desired to reprint it. Upon reflection, however, he concluded that a treatise on the same important subject would have a greater probability of usefulness; and he accordingly has bestowed considerable pains in making the necessary alterations. The sentiments and arguments of the sermon have been scrupulously preserved, as far as they seemed material to the subject; the whole has been revised with the greatest care and attention; very large additions have been made, the thoughts have been arranged in a new manner, and the author has gone as far in making the treatise complete, according to his views and ability, as was consistent with the compass prescribed to him: for he deemed it better to retrench and abridge, than, by advancing the price, to throw any hindrance in the way of its circulation. September 1, 1795. |