PREFACE. THE object of all published writing, we apprehend, should be the dissemination of Truth, whether it relates to Science, Philosophy, or Religion. Το compose for mere amusement, or the amusement of others, is not, we think, quite worthy of a rational and immortal being, who has purposes to seek and destinies to fulfil, which require the utmost exertion of his mental powers; but to write for the propagation of error, of irreligion, or of vice, we deem to be a shameful desecration of talent and of the power of the press. That which should be the medium of intellectual and moral light to the world, is thus made the source of its darkness; and the instrument of man's moral renovation is thus turned into the cause of his vice. What name sufficiently appalling would characterize the action which employs such a mighty energy for evil which could exert such an incalculable agency for good? Must it not be classed amongst the worst of crimes because it is the means of multiplying them? And yet how many Publications of the present day, periodical and otherwise, would come under the denomination of the curse, were they brought to the test of what is pure and holy in Truth and in Religion. Let us, then, use our influence to discountenance all such Publications, and support those which advocate whatever is lovely and of good report. "If there be any virtue, and any praise, let us think of these things." ED. |