The Theological, Philosophical and Miscellaneous Works of the REV. William Jones (Volume 12); To Which Is Prefixed a Short Account of His Life and Writings (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1801. Excerpt: ... PREFACE TO THB SECOND EDITION. AN publishing the Memoirs of the Life of Bishop Home, my intention was only to give a true idea of that good man, as it presented itself to my memory and affections; and to produce an edifying book, rather than a formal history. I flatter myself it has done some good; and I hope it may do more. If any offence has been given, I can only say it was no part of my plan: but it is a common fault with plain Christians, who know little of the world, to tell more truth than is wanted; and they have nothing left but a good conscience, to support them under the mistake. Some few exceptions have been made to the performance by little cavillers, which are not worth mentioning: but I brought myself into the most serious difficulty of all, by representing Bishop Home as an Hutchinsonian; which thing (it seems) ought not to have been done; as it was strongly suggested to me, Vol. XIX. c from from the late learned Doctor Farmer, while my work was in hand. On this matter I beg leave to explain myself a little. I never said, nor did I ever think, that Bishop Home owed every thing to Hutchinson, or was his implicit follower. I knew the contrary: but this I will say, because I know it to be true, that he owed to him the beginning of his extensive knowledge; for such a beginning as he made placed him on a new spot of high ground; from which he took all his prospects of religion and learning; and saw that whole road lying before him, which he afterwards pursued, with so much pleasure to himself, and benefit to the world. This declaration, however clear it may be to me, is more than some of my readers will be willing to admit, or able to bear. I perceive, by what has been written, that, if it can be effected, Bishop Home must be taken away from th...