2 
DEDICATION. 
gion, the evidences of revealed religion, and an account of the duties that 
result from both. It is of small importance, that they have been written 
in an order, the very reverse of that in which they ought to be read. I 
commend therefore the present volume to your Lordship’s protection, not 
only as, in all probability, my last labor, but as the completion of a con 
sistent and comprehensive design. 
Hitherto, my Lord, I have been speaking of myself and not of my Pa¬ 
tron. Your Lordship wants not the testimony of a dedication, nor any 
testimony from me : I consult therefore the impulse of my own mind 
alone when I declare, that in no respect has my intercourse with your 
Lordship been more gratifying to me, than in the opportunities, which 
it has afforded me, of observing your earnest, active, and unwearied 
solicitude, for the advancement of substantial Christianity: a solicitude, 
nevertheless, accompanied with that candor of mind, which suffers no 
subordinate differences of opinion, when there is a coincidence in the main 
intention and object, to produce an alienation of esteem, or diminution of 
favor. It is fortunate for a country, and honorable to its government, 
when qualities and dispositions like these are placed in high and influential 
stations. Such is the sincere judgment which I have formed of your 
Lordship’s character, and of its public value: my personal obligations I 
can never forget. Under a due sense of both these considerations, I beg 
leave to subscribe myself, with great respect and gratitude. 
My Lord, 
Your Lordship’s faithful 
And most devoted servant, 
WILLIAM PALEY. 
Bishop- Wcarmouth, July , 1802. 
