all man's best interests for time and eternity; -it is the enemy of freedom and good government;-it degrades human nature by making it the passive instrument of a designing priesthood; it embitters social and relative life, by its foul and disgusting confessional;-it converts a fair country into a desert, and changes a noble-minded people into a nation of beggars. Mr. Massy has seen all this, tells his distressing tale, which deserves to be heard and pondered by all serious Christians and thoughtful men. The book is well and powerfully written; and will do great good if it should obtain, as it deserves, a wide circulation. THIS is a peculiarly striking, pointed, and impressive little tract. It is just what its title intimates. The careless, the undecided, the inquiring cannot read it without profit. Christian Instruction Societies, Tract distributors, and City and Town Missionaries, should possess themselves of it, and scatter it throughout the length and breadth of the land. AN EXPOSITION OF THE BOOK OF PSALMS, with Practical Remarks and Observations. By MATTHEW HENRY, late Minister of the Gospel. Unabridged and Illustrated. 8vo. pp. 704. THIS Poem is entitled to no mean rank as a poetical composition. It contains passages of great power and pathos, and is sustained by large and scriptural views. To those who like poetry as a vehicle of historic truth, it will be an acceptable aid in tracing the stately steps of the great German Reformer. Would that we had a few men of Luther's mould in our day. How he would put the whole Puseyite brood of priests and bishops to the flight! THE HISTORY OF THE INQUISITION, from its earliest to the present time: with an Account of its Procedure, and Narratives of its Victims. By CHARLES H. DAVIE. Second Edition. Small 8vo. pp. 444. J. C. Bishop, Paternoster-row. WE are glad to see this able historical production in a second edition. We hope that this may be regarded as proof that it has been extensively read. It deserves to be carefully examined. A new policy, or a revival of an old policy, must be adopted with the Jesuits. If we could have our will, not a single Jesuit should be permitted to set his my eyes open, to permit a sly thief to enter foot on English soil. I am not bound, with swarming with Jesuits; and that more than We believe England is now my house. half the Puseyite clergy have some mysteri ous connection with them. The facts on the surface prove this. Let us awake from our lethargy, and protect ourselves from this wretched moral vermin, the scourge and pestilence of the earth, and the abettors of Bible Warehouse, 13, Gough-square. THIS portable and cheap edition of Matthew Henry on the Psalms, interestingly illustrated, we welcome with great delight. His commentaries cannot be unduly multi-half the crimes of the Papacy. plied; and we are not without hope that this may prove one volume of an octavo edition of his immortal work. WAY-SIDE GATHERINGS. By ROWLAND THESE 26 We recommend the volume as a promising effort at early authorship; and we can conscientiously speak of them as fruits." first-ripe AN EXPOSITION OF THE FIFTH And Three Penrith Printed by H. Brown. This is one of six old congregations, in this neighbourhood, that were formed soon after the revolution in 1688, by the long persecuted Dissent duties, Mr. Chapman devoted to the critical study of the sacred writings; and one fruit of his labours is a "Commentary upon the Epistle to the Romans." The present publication contains only his Exposition of the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth chapters. His reasons for this selection he assigns in a well-written Preface: "The reasons for preferring this particular part of the Epistle to any other, are, first, these four chapters are the most disputed portion; and many persons will be decided to countenance or discourage the publication of the whole work, by the character of the exposition given of these chapters. Secondly, these chapters stand more distinct from the other parts, and have greater union and completeness in themselves, than any other equal portion that could have been chosen." In his Exposition of the fifth chapter, the Author contends that Paul teaches the doctrine of the imputation of Adam's first sin to all his posterity, including condemnation on that account, as well as for their own personal sins. The doctrine of sanctification by a vital union to Christ, is illustrated in the Commentary upon the sixth chapter, and the first part of the seventh. Upon the much disputed passage in the latter part of the seventh chapter, Mr. Chapman's views are very decided, that the apostle, in that passage, describes his own experience, not as an unconverted, but as a renewed man, stating the effect of the application of the law of God upon his mind and conscience, first, at his conversion, and afterwards in the whole of his Christian course. The expression, "By the law is the knowledge of sin," is applicable to both of these cases. The effect of the knowledge of the law was, to inspire him with reverence for its holy nature and tendency, and to humble him under a sense of his own sinfulness. Mr. Chapman has refuted many of the interpretations of the American divines, such as Stuart and Barnes, and has cast light upon some of the more obscure parts of the Epistle. We hope that the approbation of the religious world will encourage the learned Author to publish the whole of his "Commentary upon the Epistle to the Romans." ROMISH MIRACLES. A Lecture delivered in the Town Hall, Birmingham, on Tuesday, December 16th, 1851. By the Rev. JOHN CUMMING, D.D. The Right Hon. Lord Calthorpe in the Chair. 18mo. pp. 112. Price 1s. Arthur Hall, Virtue, and Co. time, is heartily sick of his miracles. If he be an honest man, it is a sad thing for him to indorse such monstrous cheats. If he were more stupid, or rather, not so clever, we should not be so much perplexed. We think the laws of belief for the human mind are tolerably well defined; as Popery wants special licence for the things which it would have men believe, we must demur, and remind even Dr. Newman that the law of belief is uniform. It is sheer impudence, at this time of day, to call upon Englishmen, not corrupted by Popery, to believe the impostures of Rome, calling them miracles. Thanks be to Dr. Cumming! he has done more to take the shine out of Dr. Newman than any other antagonist who has hitherto entered the field with him. We should hope Papists themselves,-not totally surrendered to a designing Priesthood,-will henceforward blush for their miracles. They would disgrace any set of jugglers that ever practised upon the credulity of the public. This Lecture on Romish Miracles should be in every house throughout the empire. It demonstrates the effrontery of Rome ;shows it to be unlike every other religious system-more flagitious even than heathenism itself. Dr. Cumming has nobly acquitted himself. What answer can Dr. Newman make? Silence, we suggest, will be his wisest course. A religion built on falsehood and imposture can have nothing in common with Christianity. It disdains the chicanery of Priesthood. THE CONGREGATIONAL YEAR BOOK, FOR 1851, WITH AN ALMANACK FOR 1852; containing the proceedings of the Congregational Union of England and Wales and its confederated Societies for that year. Together with Supplementary Information, respecting the Associations, Ministers, New Chapels, Schools, and Publications, of the Congregational Body throughout the United Kingdom. 8vo., pp. 310. Jackson and Walford. THIS is a very creditable book to the Congregational denomination, containing much matter that cannot fail to prove both interesting and useful. We are happy to find that it is every year increasing in circulation; and we would hope the period is not far distant when it will find its place in every Congregational family in Great Britain and her Colonies. It is admirably edited as to plan; WE should think Dr. Newman, by this and, as returns are made more carefully ers, after they obtained liberty of separate public worship, in consequence of the Act of Toleration. The meeting house at Great Salkeld has the date of 1708. These congregations were formed at Penrith, Penruddock, Great Salkeld, Plumpton Parkhead, and Garrigill. from the country, we doubt not its accuracy, in all minor details, will ultimately be perfected. It is the cheapest volume in the world. 310 pages octavo, for One Shilling, was never heard of before. Obituary. EMOIR OF THE LATE MR. GEORGE TUCKER, OF SHEFFIELD. How grateful is it to look back on the life of a good man! How refreshing is the fragrance of a good name! With what pleasure do you refer to his acts and deeds, and live again with him in scenes and associations engraven on your memory in indelible lines! This attempt to sketch the life of such a man must, from the limited space allowed, be brief, at the same time faithful and true. "The memory of the just is blessed, and the righteous are to be had in everlasting remembrance." Mr. George Tucker, the subject of this memoir, was a native of Sheffield, where his father for many years carried on one of the staple trades of the town, the manufacture of plated goods. George, who was the second son, was put apprentice to one of the principal houses in the town, and was intended for the general business of a merchant. It was while in this situation, and before his principles were settled, that he was assailed and tempted, by other young men in the same establishment, to join in the various scenes of riot and dissipation which too frequently mark the character of youth when associated together without restraint. He was ridiculed on account of his religious scruples and tendencies; various infidel publications and opinions were placed before him; but these, instead of overwhelming him, only put him on the defensive. He applied to one who was always ready to sympathize with him in his trouble, and to help him in his difficulties. Watson's "Apology for the Bible," was put into his hands, and, furnished from such an armoury, he did battle against his foes for the cause of truth. He soon cleared himself from these associates, scattered their flimsy arguments, and himself became more emboldened, confirmed, and valiant as a youthful soldier of the cross. About the time that he attained his majority, the situation of head-master of the Lancasterian School became vacant. Mr. Tucker applied for the appointment, and obtained it, and, for several years, carried on that important institution with credit to himself, and satisfaction, both to the parents of the children and the committee of management. Many testimonies have been received from young men educated in the school, and now actively and honourably filling important situations in society, gratefully acknowledging the benefits derived from his instruction and advice, whilst pupils in that institution. The religious convictions and impressions which had been early formed in his mind by the gentle and sympathizing influence of a mother's love, now became matured into religious principles, and formed a manly Christian character. He now, therefore (together with his endeared partner), joined himself to the church of Christ meeting in Queen-street Chapel, under the pastoral care of the late highly esteemed and judicious minister, the Rev. James Boden. In the document which he addressed to the church, on his seeking admission among God's people, he states, "There appears to have been a progressive acquisition of religious knowledge, which, like leaven, has gradually wrought, until it has pervaded the whole soul; or as the twilight of the morning imperceptibly increases into the light of day, so the beams of Divine grace and mercy have fallen in silence on my heart." He was next invited by a respectable firm to enter their service as a commercial traveller; this situation he saw right to accept. During this engagement he was much from home, and became acquainted with many friends, with whom, for a long period, he maintained a friendly correspondence. His frequent journeying brought him into contact with eminent preachers of the gospel, on whose ministry he was accustomed to attend during his short stay in the various localities where they laboured and taught. He used, on his return from his travels, to be the delight of the family circle, where he would graphically describe the scenes and services in which he had happened to join during his absence; so that his friends, in this manner, soon formed for themselves acquaintance with many of the first ministers of the day, whom they had never seen, and listened to sermons which they had never heard. About this time Mr. Tucker settled in life: he married Eliza, the only daughter of Mr. Ebenezer Birks, of Sheffield, and sister to Thomas Birks, Esq., late mayor of the town. This proved a happy connexion, and was the sphere in which were exhibited those lovely traits of domestic life, which Mr. Tucker was so eminently calculated to adorn, as a husband, a parent, or a friend. It was while a commercial traveller and daily mixing with men of the world, that his principles were severely tested. Here he witnessed scenes which were not calculated to promote his piety, or increase his growth in grace; yet amidst such associations, so abundantly was the Divine Spirit imparted to him, that his principles became confirmed, his soul more holy, his experience richer, and his decision of character still more manifest; and his correspondence during this period breathes the spirit of one who lived much in the Divine presence, and relished with a keen appetite the angels' food on which it fed. Amidst such scenes and circumstances, when so many temptations to follow an opposite course lay in his path, he formed the noble resolution of joining the temperance movement, and of becoming a total abstainer from all intoxicating drinks. He had counted the cost, he knew how he should be exposed to the jeers of the thoughtless, and the scoffs of the profane, but none of these things moved him; he steadily and cheerfully pursued the course laid down for his own guidance. He did not unnecessarily, and on all occasions, obtrude his opinions on others, yet when assailed he shrunk not from avowing and defending his cherished principles. At the first he was almost alone in his views, but shortly he was joined, first by one, and then another, until for some time before he discontinued his business journeys, he had the pleasure of witnessing the temperance principle taken up and advocated by many, and all acknowledge the great change which has taken place in the habits and customs of commercial travellers. After some years spent in this way, he relinquished his engagement, and entered into business on his own account as an iron merchant. This more settled way of life appeared to suit his spirit and disposition; he was naturally kind, cheerful, and affectionate, and calculated to promote the happiness and reciprocate the endearments of the domestic circle. Now it was that those traits of character, which he had always exhibited, became more apparent and vigorous. He had for some years been connected as a superintendent with the Wicker Sundayschool; his frequent absence from home interfered with the discharge of these duties, but now that his circumstances permitted it, he gave his whole soul to the work. He was mainly instrumental in promoting the erection of a new school, in which the institution has continued to prosper for many years. Mr. Tucker was not soon discouraged in a good cause he was a man of strong faith in righteous principles. soon, or on slight grounds, to be set aside: and he was blessed to see the fruit of his labour, in a large and flourishing school, which has been honoured of God as the means of conversion to many souls. The church assembling at Queen-street, having now an opportunity of witnessing more of the spirit and character of our beloved friend, soon fixed on him as a suitable person to fill the office of deacon, to which he was chosen in August, 1847; and here he purchased for himself a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus. Among the sister churches of the same order in the town he was highly respected. He was liberal in his principles, though strongly attached to the denomination to which he belonged; he was forward in every movement connected with the Christian body. The cause of popular education found in him a decided advocate; all the institutions whose tendency was to help it forward had his constant support, both of time and money. It was mainly owing to his strenuous efforts that the College at Rotherham was continued, and the wisdom of the measures he advocated is seen in the increased prosperity and cheering prospects of that institution. Of the extensive benevolence of our beloved friend it is almost impossible to speak too highly. He had a large heart, and a liberal hand. His liberality was never bestowed grudgingly; it was limited only by his ability. As he had the opportunity and the power, he was ever ready to assist in every good work. He was the friend and counsellor of the poor and needy, the widow's heart he often caused to leap with joy, and the cause which he knew not he searched out. The deeds of private charity which have come to light since his decease, have revealed to his friends such a wide range of benevolence, as even his most intimate connexions had no conception of. He was a sympathizing Christian. The cause of suffering humanity touched his feeling heart, and the glistening eye and the starting tear would often betray his inward emotion. He was a decided Christian. There was in him none of the doctrine of expediency; he would not wink at a fault, or hide his principles. Whatever might be the character of the company amongst whom he was placed, his conduct was ever the same; he tried not No how closely he could steer (without actually crossing it) to that line of demarcation which separates the church from the world. He knew nothing of the cowardice which would induce him to hide his principles, or shrink from the defence of them. With a manliness of purpose and an open frankness peculiarly his own, he would maintain his religious character, and boldly contend for the policy of In the year 1830, he was invited by the unanimous voice of the teachers to the office of superintendent: and here he continued to labour amidst difficulties and discouragements which would have driven from the field a less faithful and zealous servant. personal ease or gratification could tempt him to neglect the duties of his school, which he considered paramount. No popular preacher, no exciting service was sufficient to lead him away from the path of duty. These duties were voluntarily undertaken, and such engagements made for the cause of Christ he considered binding on the conscience, and not acting and governing upon Christian prin- He was a cheerful Christian. His countenance was ever radiant with a smile; good nature and benevolence were impressed upon it; the young were ever happy and unrestrained in his presence, and the more matured sought his fellowship. But it was in his family especially that the warmth of his heart and his affectionate disposition were pre-eminently exhibited. His was a happy home, and the father was the source and centre of its comforts; his presence always diffused a pleasant influence, so that his society was sought both by young and old. He was eminently a praying Christian. This was the atmosphere in which he lived; his intercourse with heaven was close, intimate, and habitual. He made every circumstance, and every person associated with him, a plea for a visit to the throne of grace. It was his custom, in his own house, to have worship three times a day. Like Abraham, he commanded his children and his household after him. It was very often a wonder to many, how, amidst the bustle and business of daily life, he succeeded in keeping up that high tone of piety, as well as that considerable equanimity of temper by which he was characterized; but here lay his strength, here he obtained the grace by which his devotion was fed, here he received those supplies by which he was strengthened. But there was one practical illustration of his deep conviction of this duty, which we cannot forbear to mention, and which it would be well were it carried out by all our merchants and manufacturers who make a profession of Christianity. Mr. Tucker made it his constant practice to open his warehouse every morning with prayer. Before commencing the ordinary duties of the day, he summoned the men in his employ into the counting-house, and there sought the blessing of heaven on his worldly concerns, and the guidance of unerring wisdom in his business transactions. | of those institutions which have now become so extensively scattered throughout our country. But we must bring this brief sketch to a close. Our dear friend was removed in the prime of life in the full vigour of manhood-by a sudden and unexpected stroke, leaving behind him no dying testimony, for it was not needed, having been what is far better, a living epistle, known and read of all men. Having concluded his Saturday's labours, and completed his business arrangements for the week, he walked home with a Christian friend, who resided a short distance from the town, in the same direction. On the way he conversed with his wonted cheerfulness, and in his own characteristic manner bade his friend "a good night," and wished him "a happy Sabbath on the morrow." Having made all his arrangements for the anticipated duties of the coming day, in his beloved Wicker school-having conducted the devotions of the family as usual-and in the retirement of the closet spent a season of communion and fellowship with his God and Saviour, he retired as usual to repose, little apprehending that his intercourse with heaven was so soon to be renewed. Shortly after the hour of midnight, Mrs. Tucker was awoke by his difficult respiration. She immediately became much alarmed, and without a moment's delay, roused the family, and sent for medical aid. But before that aid could arrive, her beloved husband, unconscious of pain, without a struggle or a groan indicative of mortal agony, had breathed his last, and his happy spirit had exchanged the labours of an earthly Sabbath just commenced, for the rest of an eternal one. So sudden was the closing scene of our dear friend's earthly career! In the midst of health, surrounded by the endearments. and engaged in the active duties of life, like Enoch, he was not, for God took him. The sad intelligence quickly spread, and soon hundreds of hearts were filled with sorrow, and their eyes with tears. The town itself seemed shrouded in sadness. The last petition presented by our friend at the domestic altar was for the Sabbath-school. He had, as we have stated, made preparation Mr. Tucker was not only active amidst for the renewal of his labours; and, like a the various societies connected with his own warrior clad in complete armour, and enchurch or denomination, but he also took a veloped in his martial cloak, he lay down to prominent part as a Christian citizen. He necessary repose, ready, when the hour arwas elected a member of the Town Council rived, again to wield the sword of the Spirit, in 1845, and this office he continued to fill and serve in the ranks of the Lord of until the period of his death. His name Sabaoth. Well was it that he was ready! might be seen connected with the manage- For the summons came not in the morning, ment of almost every institution intended to nor at noon, but at midnight. From his benefit his townspeople, and to promote the slumbers he was aroused, not by the trumpet social, intellectual, moral, or religious well-sounding to arms--not again to go forth to the being of society at large. He took an active part, and spoke eloquently at the formation of the Mechanics' Library, one of the earliest help of the Lord; but to receive his discharge -to lay down his weapons-to put off his armour, and to enter on his reward. |
