friends, too numerous to mention, for interesting facts and suggestions. No small difficulty was felt in the selection of the discourses for publication. While a few of those chosen are from the early productions of their author, most are from those preached but a short time before his death. Others, and several of them perhaps of merit equal to any here submitted, still remain, and may hereafter constitute another volume. It is a very general, and, I think, just opinion, that no minister of the same age, has ever, at least in this country, left deeper impressions of his eloquence than Mr. LARNED, though, in regard to the causes, there may be some diversity of sentiment. It will be found, that however much, in the preaching of Mr. Larned, is to be ascribed to his voice and manner, the matter and style of his discourses are remarkable, that they are worthy of critical examination and study, and that those who would combine in their sermons ease and elevation, simplicity and energy, who would leave to their hearers no time to sleep, and no wish to be absent, regret only at the brevity of the service, and delight at the return of the Sabbath, will find the perusal and re-perusal of these compositions to their advantage. But I trust they will be read for higher ends-that, in them, their author will continue, though dead, to speak; to arouse the impenitent; to encourage the anxious, and confirm the obedient; to pour light upon the path of the doubtful, consolation into the bosom of sorrow, and to guide many a weary pilgrim to the land of everlasting rest. August, 1844. |