PREFACE.
SPIRITUAL reading is now so recognised a practice for all who wish to lead a devout life, that it is hardly necessary here to insist on its importance. It is, however, well to remind persons living in these times, that the present multiplication of periodical literature of every kind, is an additional reason for being faithful to the exercise of daily spiritual reading. The variety of subjects brought before the reader, the absence of deep thought or real principles, concealed by an attractive and brilliant style of writing, dissipate the mind, and gradually destroy, not only the habit, but even the power of serious reflection. We, therefore, who live in times of much reading and little thinking, have the greater need to spend some portion of our day, in reversing this process, in company with some book, which we read slowly, but from which, we can gain matter for much after-meditation.
The demand for spiritual reading for persons varying much in their capacity, tastes, and the amount of leisure at their disposal, justifies the multiplication of such books. And it is thought that the one now offered to the public has special advantages, which will make it prove a boon to many.
