PREFACE.

...in a proper spirit, in this first and most important article In this context, an "article of religion" refers to a specific point of religious doctrine or practice. of religion; wherein the good, even of Society and Government, is so essentially concerned.

We need not wonder, at the absolute depravation of manners, so very dangerous to public security; now let loose, among the vulgar In the 18th century, "vulgar" referred to the common people or the general public, rather than meaning "crude" or "gross." and I wish, the example was not wanting in those of superior class; to prevent the alarming danger of immorality, with open flood-gates rushing in upon us: owing to the egregious profanation.

The whole course of learning is requisite, to the study of Divinity, Divinity refers to the study of theology and religious matters. if we would exhibit its true grandeur, and genuine beauty. such has been my endeavor. for all studys An older spelling of "studies." should be directed to it; to the general and most effectual good of mankind: agreeable to the purpose of divine providence. he designed the world, for a para- dise; and such it would be, if the Sabbatical duty This refers to the religious obligation to keep the Sabbath (Sunday) as a holy day of rest and worship. was strictly kept up, with proper judgment. I am sure, 'tis the interest, safety, as well as duty of Government, to take effectual care about it. and the first step is to abrogate all public levees, Formal morning receptions or assemblies held by the monarch or high-ranking nobility. Stukeley argues these should not take place on Sundays. on that day: other enormitys An older spelling of "enormities," meaning grave crimes or sins. would dwindle of course.

The Sundays meditations Refers to the specific essays or sermons contained in the following chapters of the book. which follow, show how pro- fitably, and how agreeably, secular learning Non-religious education, such as science, history, and classical literature. may be em- ploy'd towards illustration of sacred history. when they go hand in hand, they inlarge An older spelling of "enlarge." the human mind; to that high spirit of universal benevolence, which makes every thing happy around us: which was the motive to Crea- tion; which exhibits that golden and beautiful medium, A reference to the "Golden Mean"—the ancient Greek philosophical ideal of the desirable middle ground between two extremes.