selves, to all nations connected with us, how great is that blessing in itself and consequences! That we may show ourselves at least not unmindful of the Divine goodness vouchsafed unto us in the time past; let us henceforth exhibit the genuine proof of right disposition towards Almighty God, by endeavouring to live conformably with the Gospel. If we are indeed anxious to observe the Gospel precepts, we shall pursue the course which will become us as men, citizens, and Christians. For we shall continue to be regular in our domestic habits; industrious, each in the work or employment of his own station; moderate in his participation of pleasures; studious of public order; obedient to national laws; respectful to the civil magistrate; loyal to the sovereign or his august representative; rooted in the love of our constitution. As an act of duty, and as an effectual preservative of religious principles in ourselves and in the community, we shall keep holy the Sabbath days, distinguishing them by intermission of secular business; employing them, partly in the exercise of public worship, partly in reading books conducive to practical and spiritual improvement, partly in such recreations, and such only, as may be compatible with innocent cheerfulness, and tempered with a greater degree of quiet, calmness, and gravity, than may be requisite on other days. Influenced by that example, which with all humility, but yet with earnest effort we should strive to imitate, the example of Him who is our LORD and SAVIOUR, at all times we shall be intent on promoting to the utmost of our power, "The glory of "GOD in the highest; on earth peace; good-will to"wards men." DISCOURSE. 2 ST. PETER, iii. 18. Grow in Grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. * THE Apostle, from whose writings these words are taken, is a person conspicuous in Sacred History. He was among the first, who were called by our Lord, to be his disciple. He was the principal speaker, when the twelve through him returned to our Lord's question this memorable answer, "Thou art the Christ, the Son "of the living God." He was one of those who were present when our Lord restored life to the deceased child of the ruler. He witnessed the transfiguration of our Lord's body into a luminous appearance; beheld the two prophets Moses and Elias; and heard the heavenly voice declare that Christ was the Son of God, whom from that time his disciples were to obey. That agony, which, as a portion of afflicting punishment for the sins of the world, our Lord and Redeemer vouchsafed to endure, was seen by St. Peter. || * St. Matt. iv. 18, 19. + St. Matt. xvi. 16. Compare St. John, vi. 69. St. Mark, v. 37. § St. Matt. xvii. 2. St. Matt. xxvi. 37. |