XV111 INTRODUCTION. 



ness of the Deity, as manifested in the Works 

 of Creation ; but it is not only directed that 

 these primary attributes should be proved 

 by all reasonable arguments derived from 

 physical objects, but also by discoveries 

 ancient and modern, and the whole extent of 

 literature. As the Holy Scriptures form the 

 most interesting portion, in every respect, 

 of ancient literature ; and it has always been 

 the habit of the author of the present treatise 

 to unite the study of the word of God with 

 that of his works ; * he trusts he shall not be 

 deemed to have stepped out of the record, 

 where he has copiously drawn from the 

 sacred fountains, provided the main tenor of 

 his argument is in accordance with the brief 

 put into his hands. 



Those who are disposed to unite the study 

 of scripture with that of nature, should always 

 bear in mind the caution before alluded to, 

 that all depends upon the right interpretation, 

 either of the written word or created sub- 

 stance. They who study the word of God, 

 and they who study his works, are equally 

 liable to error; nor will talents, even of the 



1 See Monographia Apum Anglice, i. 2, and Introd. to Ent. i. 

 Pref. xiii. &c. 



