PREFACE.

SUMMONED once more to the gratifying task of ushering into public another completed volume of the Christian Lady's Magazine, and that volume the tenth, we recal with deep thankfulness the moment when, just five years ago, we ventured on the formidable effort of launching this little bark. Many imperfections, many errors, have doubtless appeared in the sight of our discriminating friends: but the continued favour extended to the work justifies the hope that credit is given at least for good intention, where the execution, perhaps, has been defective.

To the many friends who have contributed their assistance up to this time, grateful acknowledgments are tendered; and to all whom we may hail as patrons of the work. The aspect of the times has deepened into greater seriousness as each year rolled by; and increased prominence has, of course, been given to subjects of universal national interest.

a

Thickening dangers without, and deadly errors within, render our Zion the object of more anxious solicitude the more closely we watch their progress. To be found faithful at such a time, as far as our humble sphere extends, is of immense importance; and most earnestly do we beseech the prayers of our friends, that wisdom and stability may be imparted, according to the increased need. Individual responsibility is a solemn thing: the person whose counsel cannot reach beyond the limits of a small domestic circle, must render an account to that extent: and in proportion to the enlargement of the sphere is the weight of responsibility attached to it. We pray our readers to bear this in mind on our behalf, and to frame their supplications accordingly: for the time is come when seducing spirits of every form and character are abroad, working for the downfal of that kingdom into which, despite their wily efforts, all the kingdoms of this world shall shortly merge.

We are not conscious of having ever allowed a single page of this miscellany to be dictated, or its insertion influenced, by motives of self-interest, worldly expediency, or private partiality; neither, we hope, has party or sectarian spirit been allowed to creep in. For this, the conscientious summing up of our five years' retrospection, what thanks are due to Him who alone can place, alone uphold, his fallen creatures in the straight line of honesty! The

way necessarily becomes more difficult, where Satan, multiplying his transformations, appears at the head of so many crooked paths as an angel of light, recommending them in preference to that wherein we desire to go but, not wholly ignorant of his devices, we refer to the inspired chart, and humbly, yet firmly resolve that in the strength of our God we will" go forward."

December, 1838.