P R E F A C E.

...a proper spirit, in this first and most important article of religion; wherein the good, even of Society and Government, is so essentially concerned.

We need not wonder, at the absolute depravation of manners Here, "manners" refers to moral conduct and social behavior., so very dangerous to public security; now let loose, among the vulgar In the 18th century, "the vulgar" referred to the common people or those without a formal education.. 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 Specifically, the "profanation" or disrespect of the holy Sabbath day..

The whole course of learning is requisite, to the study of Divinity The study of religion and the nature of God; today more commonly called Theology., if we would exhibit its true grandeur, and genuine beauty. such has been my endeavor. for all studys 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 paradise; and such it would be, if the Sabbatical duty The religious obligation to keep the Sabbath (Sunday) as a 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 To abolish or do away with. all public levees A "levee" was a formal morning reception held by a person of high rank or a government official. Stukeley is criticizing the practice of holding high-society social gatherings on Sundays., on that day: other enormitys An archaic spelling of "enormities," meaning grave sins or crimes. would dwindle of course.

The Sundays meditations which follow, show how profitably, and how agreeably, secular learning Non-religious academic subjects, such as history, science, and philosophy. may be employ'd towards illustration of sacred history. when they go hand in hand, they inlarge the human mind; to that high spirit of universal benevolence, which makes every thing happy around us: which was the motive to Creation; which exhibits that golden and beautiful medium,