12 PREFACE. 



In taking leave of my reader, I would fain 

 impress upon his heart the thought that he cannot 

 truly enjoy and understand the works of God 

 until, reconciled to him, he has, through faith in 

 Christ, obtained the pardon of sin and " the re- 

 newing of the Holy Ghost," who alone can purify 

 his mind from its natural darkness and selfishness, 

 and inspire it with sincere love and generous 

 sympathy for every living creature. An unloving, 

 a selfish, and a complaining spirit stands as a 

 barrier between us and the pure delights afforded 

 by the works of nature ; but a Christian, loving, 

 devout soul is in harmony with the will of God, 

 and rejoices in his works, because they speak his 

 praises and show forth his glory. 



