Page:Beauty for Ashes.djvu/14

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tiful diadem, which was worn on occasions of festivity and joy, is an equally fit symbol of that opposite and joyous state, which the New doctrine on this subject can hardly fail to induce. The Old doctrine is a sad one, and consorts only with gloom; while the New doctrine is cheerful, and gladdens the heart with its serene sunshine.

For most of the authorities cited in Part I., the author thankfully acknowledges his indebtedness to the writer of some interesting and able articles in the Christian Examiner for 1827 and '28, in reply to the Rev. Dr. Beecher, on the subject of infant damnation.

To all who may deem the contrast between the Old and the New doctrine, as exhibited in the following pages, sufficient to justify the title adopted, I cordially commend a diligent and faithful perusal of the writings of the New Church; assuring them, as I do from a knowledge acquired by a patient and thorough personal examination of these writings, that, upon all other theological questions, they will find the contrast between the Old and the New equally striking.

B. F. B.
Brooklyn, October 30, 1855.